South Africa: City of Tshwane to continue to supply water to Hammanskraal The City of Tshwane says it will continue to supply Hammanskraal with potable water through water tankers while it pursues implementing long-term solutions. We take the delivery of quality water to the residents of Hammanskraal seriously. As such, in our 2023/24 budget the multi-party coalition government allocated R450 million over a period of three years towards the work at Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Plant, the City said on Tuesday. Authorities announced the cholera outbreak last weekend in Hammanskraal and surrounding areas after stool test results confirmed that people who presented themselves to health facilities in the area tested positive for cholera. Last week, the City met with the Department of Water and Sanitation and agreed to form a partnership to address the matter urgently and handle the Rooiwal situation on a permanent basis. Meanwhile, the City has thanked Old Mutual and the Red Cross for donating 10 000 litres of bottled water and hygiene packs to Hammanskraal residents on Tuesday. Our coalition government welcomes all forms of assistance during this difficult time, and as such I would also like to thank other civic organisations and companies that have assisted our residents, like the Gift of the Givers, Doctors Without Borders, Spar and Coca Cola. Residents are also reminded to regularly wash the containers they use to draw water from the water tankers with bleach and to boil water drawn from other sources before drinking it. The City of Tshwane welcomes all efforts that offer temporary relief to the people of Hammanskraal while we pursue implementing long-term solutions, the City said. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2023-05-31. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Track laying starts on Chinese-built Hungarian section of Budapest-Belgrade railway Xinhua) 08:38, May 31, 2023 Photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows the track laying at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (China Railway Group Budapest-Belgrade Railway Management Dept./Handout via Xinhua) KUNSZENTMIKLOS, Hungary, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. The 7.98-km Kunszentmiklos-Tass to Bosztor section is part of the 76 km railway line being built by Chinese companies in Hungary. China Railway No. 9 Bureau Group Co., Ltd. has undertaken the task of laying tracks, utilizing 120-meter-long steel rails. The town of Kunszentmiklos, situated 54 km from the capital Budapest, hosts the largest station along the Chinese-built Hungarian section of the railway line. While the village of Bosztor, located 62 km from Budapest, will host a transfer station following its reconstruction. Anticipated milestones for 2023 include the completion of track laying for the right line, foundation reconstruction of the left line, primary reconstruction of stations along the route, and bridge and culvert projects. The 152-km Hungarian section of the Budapest-Belgrade railway line is being built by a consortium of China Railway No. 9 Bureau, China Railway Electrification Engineering Group Co., Ltd, and Hungarian partners. Work on the Hungarian section commenced in July 2020 and entered the civil engineering construction phase in February 2022. The project is scheduled to be completed by July 2025. The Budapest-Belgrade railway is one of the flagship projects of China's Belt and Road Initiative in this part of Europe. It is the result of the deepening of cooperation between China and the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. The project has received significant support from the governments of China and Hungary. Financed by the Export-Import Bank of China, the railway line will span almost 350 km and will connect Budapest to Belgrade. Once completed and operational, travel time between the two cities will be reduced from 8 hours to approximately 3.5 hours. Photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows the track laying at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (China Railway Group Budapest-Belgrade Railway Management Dept./Handout via Xinhua) Photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows the track laying at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (China Railway Group Budapest-Belgrade Railway Management Dept./Handout via Xinhua) A machine lifts a steel rail at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary, on May 30, 2023. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) A worker operates a machine to lay a steel rail at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary, on May 30, 2023. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) A worker checks the track laying machine at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary, on May 30, 2023. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) A worker adjusts the track laying machine at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary, on May 30, 2023. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) A worker operates a machine to lift a steel rail at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary, on May 30, 2023. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) A machine lays a steel rail at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary, on May 30, 2023. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) Workers lay a steel rail at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary, on May 30, 2023. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua) Photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows the track laying at the construction site of the Budapest-Belgrade railway in Kunszentmiklos, Hungary. Against the backdrop of dark skies, pouring rain, thunder, and lightning, the arduous task of laying rails for the Chinese-built section in Hungary of the Budapest-Belgrade railway project got underway here on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the project. (China Railway Group Budapest-Belgrade Railway Management Dept./Handout via Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) 1. Yes. Larger buses are seldom full. Driving them around is a waste of money and fuel. 2. Yes. Fixed routes are often cumbersome and inflexible. They dont work for some riders. 3. No. Using small vans to transport riders on demand would not be very efficient. 4. No. If the city cant have an actual bus service, riders may as well call a cab or an Uber. 5. Unsure. The transit business model is changing, but it could prove to be problematic. Vote View Results Killeen, TX (76540) Today Cloudy skies this morning followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 82F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Partly to mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 65F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. LINCOLN The Nebraska Corn Board will hold its next meeting on June 21 at KAAPA Ethanol at 15 South Central Ave. in Kearney. The meeting is open to the public, providing the opportunity for public comment. The board will conduct regular board business, consider funding requests and set the budget for fiscal year 2023-24. A copy of the agenda is available by writing to the Nebraska Corn Board, 245 Fallbrook Blvd., Suite 204, Lincoln, NE 68521, sending an email to renee.tichota@nebraska.gov or by calling 402-471-2676. The Nebraska Corn Board is funded through a producer checkoff investment of one-half-cent-per-bushel checkoff on all corn marketed in the state and is managed by nine farmer-directors. The mission of the Nebraska Corn Board is to promote the value of corn by creating opportunities. A 24-year-old man faces criminal charges for his alleged crimes while traveling through Kenosha County. Mensah A. Bonman Jr. was charged Wednesday with felonies of substantial battery causing bodily harm and second-degree recklessly endangering safety, along with three misdemeanors. Bonman made his Initial Appearance Wednesday afternoon at Intake Court. On Saturday morning, an Oak Creek police officer patrolling a motel observed a vehicle with a registration plate that did not match, according to the criminal complaint. The registered owner of the plate was identified as Bonman, who reportedly had an outstanding bench warrant from Sheboygan County on a case of possession of a firearm while intoxicated. When the officer knocked on his room door Bonman answered and was taken into custody. However, the officer also located an injured woman in the room with severe facial injuries. The woman, according to the complaint, said Bonman had beaten her while in the car on Interstate 94 just north of the Illinois-Wisconsin border in Kenosha County. Later that day, a Kenosha County sheriffs deputy responded to Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee to investigate the matter. The deputy observed the woman to have several scratches and severe bruising to her right eye, which was swollen shut. The woman, according to the complaint, said Bonman struck her multiple times with a closed fist and with a hard object while driving through Kenosha County on the interstate. The woman also said she exited the vehicle to avoid being further hit and Bonman attempted to leave her on the side of the road before she jumped back into the vehicle. The woman said she later lost consciousness and awoke in the Oak Creek room. The woman was eventually transferred to Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee for an orbital fracture to her left eye that required surgery. Bonman is being held on a $5,000 cash bond. A preliminary hearing is set for June 7. Bonman free on bond during the alleged crimes committed in Kenosha County. In January, Bonman appeared before a Sheboygan County Circuit Court commissioner where he was charged with the misdemeanor offense of possession of a firearm while intoxicated. Mugshots: Kenosha County criminal complaints from May 27-30 Arionna L. Ballewske Arionna L. Ballewske, 18, of Kenosha, faces charges of intimidation of a victim (domestic abuse), battery, disorderly conduct, and criminal damage to property. Mensah A. Bonman Jr. NO PHOTO AVAILABLE Mensah A. Bonman Jr., 24, of Rison, Alaska, faces charges of substantial battery (intend bodily harm), second degree recklessly endangering safety, and disorderly conduct. Andrew Bracy Andrew Bracy, 44, of Kenosha, faces charges of probation and parole, bail jumping, and criminal trespass to dwelling. Jontaz Malik Darden Jontaz Malik Darden, 26, of Kenosha, faces charges of probation and parole, battery or threat to judge/prosecutor/officer (aggravated assault), and resist/obstruct causing substantial bodily harm/soft tissue injury. Jordon Namone Dickerson Jordon Namone Dickerson, 20, of Pleasant Prairie, faces charges of stalking, and bail jumping. Nathan Paul Ernst Nathan Paul Ernst, 19, of Silver Lake, faces charges of second degree recklessly endangering safety, bail jumping, and disorderly conduct. David Calvin Kinley David Calvin Kinley, 58, of Kenosha, faces charges of probation and parole, and retail theft (intentionally take less than or equal to $500). Trenton Benjamin Kmiec Trenton Benjamin Kmiec, 23, of Salem, faces charges of bail jumping, and resisting or obstructing an officer. George William Long III George William Long III, 58, of Kenosha, faces charges of bail jumping. Deandre M. McMiller Deandre M. McMiller, 32, of Milwaukee, faces charges of bail jumping, and resisting or obstructing an officer. Jazmin Georgiann Mendoza-Anderson Jazmin Georgiann Mendoza-Anderson, 19, of Pleasant Prairie, faces charges of bail jumping. Michael Jovan Smith Michael Jovan Smith, 30, of Evanston, Illinois, faces charges of vehicle operator flee/elude officer. Deartay Demetrius Watson Deartay Demetrius Watson, 24, of Kenosha, faces charges of disorderly conduct, bail jumping, possession of an electric weapon, and carrying a concealed weapon. 9 injured in shooting near beach in Hollywood, Florida Passenger Arrested For Opening Plane Door Mid-Flight President Theodore Roosevelt leaned back in his chair, removed his wire-rimmed glasses and rubbed the bridge of his nose. With a sigh, he looked at the stack of letters and petitions on his desk. Every one of the communications sang the praises of a one-armed lighthouse keeper in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The lighthouse keeper, Capt. Louis N. DeDiemar, 67, had recently been forced to retire by the order of District Inspector. The letters and petitions were from the citizens of Kenosha urging the president to reinstate DeDiemar. DeDiemar was only seven years old when, in 1847, he came to live in the township of Somers. When the Civil War broke out in 1861, he enlisted in Company E, of the 1st Wisconsin regiment and re-enlisted. Wounded by a Minie ball at the Battle of Perrysville on Oct. 8, 1862. He subsequently lost his arm. A Kenosha newspaper, The Telegraph Courier, related a story of the compassion he experienced after his injury. In a fateful encounter with Union General Ulysses S. Grant, the commanding officer saw DeDiemars dilemma at supper one night and cut the meat on his plate so he could eat a full meal. Grant reportedly told him: My lad, when you want anything in the future from any American citizen, dont hesitate to call on me, because you have earned it. DeDiemar was a man who put more time into honing his abilities than scorning his disability. He returned to Kenosha County and served as Collector for the town of Somers in 1864, and the Special Collector of the Bounty Tax from 1872-73. Keeper of the Kenosha Light DeDiemar, 32, assumed the duties of the keeper of the 1866 Kenosha Lighthouse on June 26, 1872. The following year he married Mary Eliza Timme, who was 19 years younger, and brought her to live in the keepers house just west of the lighthouse. Mary DeDiemars responsibilities became more than the usual duties of a lighthouse keepers wife. In 1874, she was assigned as acting assistant keeper and two years later permanently appointed as First Assistant Keeper, a position she held until the north pierhead light was built in 1906. In June, 1880, it was noted in the Kenosha Telegraph newspaper that the U. S. supply steamer Dahlia had arrived in the Kenosha port with an inspection party. After touring the tower, dwelling and grounds, the party left the necessary supplies for the maintenance of the light station and complimented DeDiemar on the appearance of the site. It was the same year after year, inspection after inspection: DeDiemar always received high praise for the condition of his lighthouse and keepers cottage. DeDiemars salary was $600 a year. That didnt go far to feed his family of five kids. He ran for Kenosha County Sheriff in 1888, but lost to opponent John Hannon, 1,649 votes to 1,700 votes. After the new north pierhead light was built, the light in the old lighthouse was discontinued, and DeDiemar was assigned to caring for the pierhead and breakwater lights and the foghorn. Test of skills In July 1907, the order came down from Lighthouse Inspector J. M. Orchard of Chicago that DeDiemar, 67, must retire. Kenoshans couldnt figure out why. Orchard himself had give DeDiemar good marks on his annual inspection in 1905. President Roosevelt responded to the letters he received from Kenoshans and ordered an investigation of the matter. At the investigation hearing, Orchard charged that the lighthouse was kept in a filthy and unsanitary manner, that DeDiemar had trouble getting along with the men employed under him, and that he repeatedly engaged in confrontations with the people owning property around the lighthouse. Looking at the records, there appears to be high turnover of Second Assistant Keepers, but it may have had been a result of DeDiemar insisting that his wife keep the First Assistant Keeper position, perhaps because the family needed a second income. There were no fewer than 15 Second Assistant Keepers that worked for DeDiemar between June 1903 and July 1907. No one at the hearing would back up Orchards charges. Every local witness spoke of DeDiemar in the highest regard. Then Orchard charged that since DeDiemar only had one arm, he was not capable of doing the work required of a lighthouse keeper. It was specifically stated that he could not put an engine together after it had been cleaned. DeDiemars attorney, Peter Fisher, demanded that a practical test should be made of DeDiemars mechanical capabilities. The entire entourage went onto the pier and DeDiemar got to work. Under the watchful eye of Orchard, the Lighthouse Board, and other dignitaries, DeDiemar, a skilled machinist, one-handedly dismantled, cleaned and reassembled the huge foghorn engine. In triumph he gave a long blast on the fog signal that could be heard up and down the shoreline for miles. On the other side of the lake But DeDiemar never was reinstated as keeper of the Kenosha Light Station. After a long two-year fight, he was finally vindicated of all charges and appointed as keeper of the Light Station at South Haven, Michigan. The DeDiemars must have taken comfort in the familiar appearance of the South Haven light. It was 15 feet shorter, but was the same color white and style as the north pier in Kenosha. DeDiemar replaced Capt. James S. Donahue, who had been the South Haven lighthouse keeper for 36 years. The two captains had much in common. They were both long time keepers of a lighthouse in a place they had come to call home and they were both civil war amputees, Donahue loosing a leg in the war. In April 1913, Capt. DeDiemar was walking along the railroad tracks in South Haven, when he was struck by a train. Newspaper reports stated that his right foot was removed two days later, but he died soon after of his injures at the age of 73. He is buried in Green Ridge Cemetery here in Kenosha. Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism. ENDANGERED PROPERTIES | W.C. WILL HOUSE For 2023, the city's Heritage Preservation Commission released an updated list of the 10 most endangered historic properties in La Crosse. This annual initiative intends to raise awareness and encourage the preservation of historic properties potentially at risk of irreparable damage or demolition due to neglect, natural disaster or redevelopment. Unchanged from last year's list is the W.C. Will house at 503 Caledonia St. This residence was designed by La Crosse-born architect Andrew Roth. The son of a local tailor, baker and grocer who immigrated from Bavaria, Roth likely started learning his trade at about 16, working as a draftsman for La Crosse architect Charles J. Ross. After Ross died at only age 42 in 1877, Roth spent several years working as a carpenter before putting up his own shingle as an independent architect in 1893. It was during this first year in his own business that Roth drew up plans for this Queen Anne home. Turn-of-the-century Queen Anne properties represent some of the most dramatic, elaborate and conspicuous architecture, not only in La Crosse, but also scattered in neighborhoods throughout the U.S. Unfortunately, this outstanding example, along with many others in the area, is in danger of being lost. Queen Anne's are especially susceptible to disrepair and redevelopment since they can require a greater degree of maintenance to properly upkeep. German immigrant and Northern) railway car inspector William C. Will and his wife Ernstine commissioned this house from Roth. At the time, Will had a growing family as well as a mother-in-law residing with him and likely needed the space. Additionally, the dwelling was close to his work. It was less than a 30-minute walk to the Grand Crossing railroad yard and depot and only about a 10-minute trek to the CB&N freight house located at Copeland and Wall streets. Will must have not cared for his railroad position because around 1905, he rented out his home in order to give farming a try in Onalaska. As a result, the house became quite the railroad-worker crash-pad for a short time. The 1907 city directory lists 10 different CM&STP (Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul) employees simultaneously residing at the address during that year! However, that living situation might have been tenable since six of the tenants were conductors and two were brakemen, so they were likely gone for significant stretches of time. The property probably attracted such a group because it was only a few blocks away from the CM&STP depot (located near Copeland and Gould streets) at that time. That depot was later replaced in 1927 by what is now the present-day La Crosse Amtrak Station found on the same block as the Will house. Will gave up on farming rather quickly, and by 1907, he was working as a teamster for the city and living with his family in a comparatively modest dwelling For a collection of previous stories in this series, point your smartphone camera at this QR code and then tap the link. at 619 Island St. However, by 1909, the family had returned to their much more impressive Caledonia Street home. This is where William and Ernstine continued to reside until they died in 1944 and 1940, respectively. The Will house is a somewhat rare example of a brick Queen Anne, and it retains many attractive original features, such as its bay window, gables with fishscale-shaped wooden shingles, upper-story arched window, wooden porch brackets and stairwell window adorned with small colored-glass panes. At some point, the residence was split into multiple rental units, and regrettably, the front porch was enclosed and another enclosed-porch story was added on top of it. These historically inappropriate porch alterations have greatly diminished the home's appearance. Additionally, the columns and railings on the rear porch are in need of renovation. The good news for the property is that porches are some of the most readily restorable elements of a historic building. Roth was a very talented architect who designed many notable structures, in addition to this residence, in La Crosse and throughout the tri-state region. His work is an important component of the city's cultural heritage, and preserving it should be a community priority. Many of Roth's creations are on or eligible for local, state and national historic registers, and the Will house is no exception. It is time to publicly recognize the architectural significance of this home and bring its existence and history out of obscurity before it is too late to restore it. On Wednesdays and Sundays in May, The Tribune will continue to publish articles on HPC's list of La Crosse's 10 Most Endangered Historic Properties. Basic information about each property can also be found on the city's heritage preservation website. Anyone seeking more information regarding this project or wanting to nominate endangered historic properties for future lists can contact Tim Acklin in the City Planning Department. Laura Godden is a La Crosse heritage preservation commissioner and UW-La Crosse Murphy Library archivist/assistant professor, and Evelyn Gaunt is an archaeology major and Murphy Library student archivist. The entire 2023 Most Endangered Historic Properties list, as well as former years' lists, can be found on the city's heritage preservation website at www.cityoflacrosse. org/your-government/departments/planning-economic-development/heritage-preservation. Anyone seeking more information regarding this project or wanting to nominate endangered historic places for future lists can contact Tim Acklin in the City Planning Department at acklint@cityoflacrosse.org or 608-789-7391. Laura Godden is a La Crosse heritage preservation commissioner and UW-La Crosse Murphy Library archivist/ assistant professor. Evelyn Gaunt is an archaeology major and Murphy Library student archivist. Almost all of you know someone who has had breast cancer. That's how common it is. Each year in the U.S., there are 264,000 cases of breast cancer and 42,000 women who die from it. It's an awful cancer that robs too many women, young and old, of a good life. The main tool in the fight against breast cancer and I'm not telling you anything you don't already know is screening. That's why the new guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force are so important. Updated recommendations are that breast cancer screening should start earlier, at age 40. Before we dive into the specifics, let me tell you about the USPSTF. There are multiple organizations, good ones, that put out guidelines. For cancer, recommendations are made by the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Physicians and others. Sometimes the guidelines are all the same and sometimes they differ. I mention this because when all the guidelines are not congruent, it can be confusing to you and me. Which recommendations should I follow? That's not a small question when I'm taking a stand and your health care provider is deciding what to do. The USPSTF is very conservative with their guidelines. They are not the first to recommend something they're usually in "wait and see" mode. They grade the quality of the overall evidence for a service on a three-point scale (good, fair, poor, worthless). Good means evidence includes consistent results from well-designed, well-conducted studies in representative populations that directly assess effects on health outcomes. I won't go into more on this system right now I'll do it in a different column but needless to say, they sift and winnow and come up with what they think is good science. So when the USPSTF says to start screening for breast cancer at 40, I'm for it. It's how I base my recommendations. We have seen an alarming increase in breast cancer among younger women, especially Black women. They now recommend that all women who are at average risk for breast cancer should start getting regular mammograms at age 40 every other year. Before this, the USPSTF recommended talking to your health care provider and then deciding. It was a noncommittal sort of ho-hum and perhaps kind of thing. Now, it's clear: Start screening at 40 because significant risk starts at 40. The reason they didn't do this earlier was that they were concerned earlier screening would do more harm than good, leading to unnecessary treatment in younger women, including biopsies that turned out to be negative. This is a big issue in medicine. Too much testing can lead to too many unnecessary and potentially harmful procedures. I agree we need to do smart testing and not over-testing. But when it comes to these new guidelines, I think smart testing means every two years, starting at 40 and while we're on cancer screening, colon cancer screening starts at 45, not 50. The real question is why are we seeing breast cancer in younger and younger women? The answer, according to Dr. Carol Mangione, immediate past chair of the USPSTF is, well, we don't really know. It's just like colon cancer, it's happening in younger and younger people. Now what about women over 75? The task force says we don't know if screening matters. We know a lot of older women get breast cancer, but there just aren't enough studies and data to see if screening in this senior population works. That's where a good discussion with your health care provider counts. You're the one who should make the choice. So you may have noticed I haven't talked about self-examination in regard to breast cancer. Remember when we said every woman, once a month, should conduct a self-exam of her breasts and if she felt something abnormal, see a health care provider? Newer studies have shown that most women are in tune enough with their bodies to notice something abnormal during the course of everyday living. When they shower or just go about their regular grooming, they are likely to feel a lump or anything else unusual, and that's good enough without a regular selfexam. Women are smart enough to notice something and ask a health care provider. Oh, and by the way, when it comes to lumps, men get them, too. There were 2,400 cases of breast cancer in men last year with 500 deaths. Hey, guys, if you have a breast lump, see your doctor to check on it. My spin: Times change, recommendations change. If we follow the new breast cancer screening guidelines, we'll save lives. Science marches on. Stay well. This column provides general health information. always consult your personal health care provider about concerns. no ongoing relationship of any sort is implied or offered by dr. Paster to people submitting questions. any opinions expressed by dr. Paster in his columns are personal and are not meant to represent or reflect the views of SSM Health. ABOUT THE DOC dr. Zorba Paster is the co-host of "Zorba Paster On your Health," which airs on Wisconsin Public Radio. Paster practices family medicine in Oregon, Wis. send questions to features@madison.com or write Wisconsin state Journal, attn: Health Column, P.O. Box 8058, Madison, WI 53708. DE SOTOMiles Harley Bohland passed away peacefully at Gundersen Health System on May 23, 2023, at the age of 85. Miles was born on May 8, 1938, in La Crosse, WI to Evelyn Mildred Long and Harley Faye Bohland. They moved to the original Bohland farm in 1943, where Miles was raised. Miles was married to Eloda (Springborn) on June 11, 1960. They would have been married 63 years. Miles was preceded in death by his oldest son, Wesley Miles Bohland; his parents; his brother, Merlin; sister-in-law, Sonya; brothers-in-law, Don Geddes, Roger Springborn, and Harry Sutton; and brother, Leroy. Miles is survived by his loving wife, Eloda; his sister, Bernell and Terry Rasque; his children: Bryan and Carolyn Bohland, Danella and Doug Marquardt, and Valerie Bohland; his grandchildren: Amanda and Cory Hanenberger, Courtney and Alex Rinehart, Cameron and Elly Marquardt, Payton and Miguel Nava, Meckenzie and Jhovanny Lozano, Cody Marquardt, Shea Bohland, Lawson, Hayden, and Weston Reis, Dasmine Marquardt; and three plus great-grandchildren. His memory will be forever cherished and in the hearts of his wife, cousins, nieces, nephews, other family and friends. Memorials may be mailed to Vosseteig Funeral Home in care of the Miles Bohland family (P.O. Box 88, Viroqua, WI 54665). In lieu of flowers, donations would be greatly appreciated by the family. Miles grew up in the metropolis of Red Mound, WI, a suburb of De Soto. After graduation he took some odd jobs at both the railroad and sawmill but there was never enough work. At age 18, the draft was coming so he decided to enlist. He was sworn in on February 14, 1957, in Minneapolis and then was stationed at Fort Chaffee in Arkansas for basic training. After basic training, he transferred to Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. He spent two hot years there. After he returned to Red Mound, he ended up moving to Kenosha, WI to work for American Motors on the assembly line. In July 1959, Miles met Eloda at the bottom of the De Soto hill and he said it was love at first sight. Miles and Eloda were married June 11, 1960, at the Methodist Parsonage in De Soto. After their marriage they went back to the city life in Burlington but that clearly wasnt for them. In 1961, when Eloda was expecting her first baby Wesley, they moved back home and onto the Hayden Farm in Retreat, WI. Then in 1964, along came Bryan, next Danella, and finally Valerie Joy. They dairy and tobacco farmed for 32 years. After the farm they bought a few acres in the city of De Soto on main street and Miles worked for the De Soto School System for many years in many capacities such as janitor, bus driver, dispatcher, and Vosseteig Funeral Home as a helper in all aspects. Miles has had many achievements in his lifetime and was the definition of a true hard worker. Miles was a member of the Retreat Lions Club and the president, chairman, and a 40 year plus member of the De Soto Lions Club. He was also the president and member of the Retreat Sportsman Club. He served on the Retreat Walnut Mound Cemetery Committee for 20 plus years and on the De Soto Area School Board of Education for 16 years. He was on the De Soto Park and Recreation Committee for 31 years. Miles was the president and member of the De Soto Lutheran Cemetery since the early 90s. Miles was a longstanding member of De Soto Lutheran Church and was baptized there in 1938. He also wants it to be known that he sang in the De Soto Lutheran Church Choir as a youth and attended the Youth Group. He worked with Vernon Communication Group for approximately nine years. Miles had many loves . Farming, Ford Vehicles, Tractors, Woodworking, and most importantly, His Family. A Funeral Service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the De Soto Lutheran Church. Visitation was held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Miles was laid to rest at Walnut Mound Cemetery with full military honors. Online Condolences may be expressed at www.vossfh.com. MADISON The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is inviting the public to head outdoors for the 11th annual Free Fun Weekend on June 3-4. State park admission fees, fishing licenses and trail passes are waived for all visitors, according to a DNR press release. With 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams and roughly 15,000 lakes, the DNR hopes Wisconsinites discover a new favorite park, trail, forest or recreation area, or try a new activity during the weekend. Free Fun Weekend is always a great opportunity for the DNR property crews to welcome summer visitors back, said Steve Schmelzer, DNR director of Parks and Recreation Management. If youve never visited a state park, forest, trail or recreation area, this is the perfect weekend to find your outdoor adventure. It is an opportunity for more residents to visit the parks and to give fishing for food or fun a try. All the waters of the state are open to all anglers. If you havent fished in a while or never fished, (this) is a great chance to give it a try, said Justine Hasz, DNR director of Fisheries Management. If you dont have any fishing gear, no problem. You can check out our tackle loaner sites or join one of the many free events over the weekend, and enjoy your time in Wisconsins great outdoors. Free clinics are held this weekend at state and municipal properties to provide instruction for beginning anglers. Find fishing clinics and more free events by visiting the DNRs events calendar. For a full list of state properties, activities and maps, go to the DNRs website. Reserve a shelter or campsite through the DNRs online booking system. Before heading to a state park, trail or waterbody near you, here are some helpful things to know: State parks Vehicle admission stickers will not be required. All state parks and trails will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Programs and events are posted online at the DNRs website. Trails All linear/rail trails will be open to the public, including ATV trails and horseback riding trails. ATV, UTVs and OHMs are exempt from registration requirements. All-terrain vehicle operators do not need a pass for state ATV trails. Fishing Nobody will be required to have a fishing license or trout/salmon stamps. All 2023-24 fishing regulations apply, including bag and length limits. Small and largemouth bass, panfish and northern pike are active this time of year. Boat launches All DNR boat launches are open; locate one near you. Boats must be registered, which can be done either online or via mail. Minimize the spread of aquatic invasive species by removing plants and animals from boats before and after launching, draining all water from compartments, and never move live fish from any waterway. Safety Always wear a life jacket when fishing from a boat, kayak, canoe or paddleboard. Use boat lights after sunset. Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during an ATV ride or while operating a boat. Wear a helmet and protective clothing such as eye protection, gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt while riding an ATV. All children younger than 18 must have a minimum Department of Transportation standard motorcycle or ATV helmet bicycle helmets are not legal. Keep your speed in mind as weather and terrain conditions vary or change. Grab your family and friends and head outdoors this weekend. Take the trail less traveled and head to some lesser known hidden gem properties. Make sure to tag your Free Fun Weekend photos with #OutWiGo. The Vernon County Historical Society will be grilling hot dogs and bratwurst this Saturday, June 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Nelson Agri-Center in Viroqua. Ive heard these two foods described as 19th century working-class German-American street food, basically bread and meat meant to fill you up and keep you going for hours. A history lesson in a hot dog! Money raised at the grill-out will help us continue to preserve and promote local history, so come out and eat for a good cause. The next meeting of the genealogy class will be Thursday, June 8. The class is going on a field trip to the La Crosse County Archives, located on the second floor inside the Main Street Library at 800 Main St. in La Crosse. Meet in La Crosse at the archives at 10 a.m. for a group introduction to the resources there, followed by individual research time. New students are always welcome to join the class. The La Crosse Light Guard, also known as Company B of the 2nd Wisconsin Volunteers, will be at the historic Sherry-Butt House on Saturday, June 10. Company B is a group of Civil War reenactors, and they will be portraying the living history of the Federal infantryman and civilian population during the period 1861 to 1865. This free event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the lawn of the house, which is located at 795 N. Main St. in Viroqua. Parking will be available at the Vernon County Fairgrounds next door to the house. The Vernon County Historical Society will be serving barbecues, chips, lemonade, water and coffee, for a freewill donation. The soldiers will march and drill at 10:30 a.m., fire muskets (with blanks) at 11:30 a.m., and give short talks at 12 and 12:30 p.m. Drilling and musket firing will repeat at 1 p.m. The public is invited to talk with the reenactors and learn about life during the Civil War. The house will also be open for tours that day. Summer hours at the museum begin on June 1. Throughout the summer, the Vernon County History Center (a.k.a., Vernon County Museum) will be open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. As always, we are also open by appointment. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to head outdoors for the 11th annual Free Fun Weekend happening June 3-4. State park admission fees, fishing licenses and trail passes are waived for all Wisconsin residents and non-residents. With 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams and roughly 15,000 lakes, the DNR invites Wisconsinites to discover a new favorite park, trail, forest or recreation area, or to try a new activity during Free Fun Weekend. This is the perfect time to get outdoors and find your adventure in Wisconsin. Free Fun Weekend is always a great opportunity for the DNR property crews to welcome summer visitors back, said Steve Schmelzer, DNR Bureau Director of Parks and Recreation Management. If youve never visited a state park, forest, trail or recreation area, this is the perfect weekend to find your outdoor adventure. Free Fun Weekend is an opportunity for more residents to visit the parks and to give fishing for food or fun a try. All the waters of the state are open to residents and non-residents alike. If you havent fished in a while or never fished Free Fun Weekend is a great chance to give it a try, said Justine Hasz, DNR Bureau Director of Fisheries Management. If you dont have any fishing gear, no problem. You can check out our tackle loaner sites or join one of the many free events over the weekend, and enjoy your time in Wisconsins great outdoors. Free fishing clinics are held this weekend at state and municipal properties to provide instruction for beginning anglers. Find fishing clinics and more Free Fun events by visiting the DNRs events calendar. Find a full list of Wisconsin state properties, activities and maps by visiting the DNRs website. Reserve a shelter or campsite through the DNRs online booking system. Before heading to a state park, trail or waterbody near you, here are some helpful things to know: STATE PARKS Vehicle admission stickers will not be required. All state parks and trails will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Programs and events are posted online at the DNRs website. TRAILS All linear/rail trails will be open to the public, including ATV trails and horseback riding trails. ATV, UTVs and OHMs are exempt from registration requirements. Resident and non-resident all-terrain vehicle operators do not need a trail pass to ride state ATV trails. FISHING Residents and non-residents will not be required to have a fishing license or trout/salmon stamps. All 2023-2024 fishing regulations apply, including bag and length limits. This is the perfect time of year for small and largemouth bass, panfish and northern pike to be active. New to fishing? Check out free clinics hosted at state properties. Locate launches and shore fishing access points near you. BOAT LAUNCHES All DNR boat launches are open. Boats must be registered, which can be done either online or via mail. Minimize the spread of aquatic invasive species by removing plants and animals from boats before and after launching, draining all water from compartments, and never move live fish from any waterbody. SAFETY Always wear a life jacket when fishing from a boat, kayak, canoe or paddleboard. Use boat lights after sunset. Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during an ATV ride or while operating a boat. Wear a helmet and protective clothing such as eye protection, gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt while riding an ATV. All children under the age of 18 must have a minimum Department of Transportation standard motorcycle or ATV helmet - bicycle helmets are not legal. Keep your speed in mind as weather and terrain conditions vary or change. Grab your family and friends and head outdoors for Free Fun Weekend! Take the trail less traveled and head to some lesser known hidden gem state properties. Make sure to tag your Free Fun Weekend photos with #OutWiGo. Blunt force trauma, possibly compounded by the presence of alprazolam, caused the death of 6-year-old Alexavier J. Pedrin, according to a Minnesota pathologist who performed the autopsy. Josie M. Dikeman, 31, of Onalaska, has been charged in Alexaviers death. She faces felony counts of first-degree intentional homicide, chronic child neglect and physical abuse of a child. The first part of her preliminary hearing was held Wednesday in La Crosse County Circuit Court in a packed courtroom before Judge Elliott Levine. Only one of the prosecutions witnesses was available to testify, and the rest of the hearing was continued to June 9. La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke said he expects four or five witnesses to testify when the hearing resumes. The courtroom contained about a dozen observers wearing Justice for Alexavier T-shirts. In an interview after the hearing, Alexaviers aunt Annie Wolfe-Anderson said Alexavier should have been removed from the home where Dikeman lived. The system so far has failed us, Wolfe-Anderson said. I put more faith in Jesus and his ability to sway this than I do in the judicial system. Wednesdays lone witness, Dr. Reade Quinton, performed the autopsy after Alexavier was found dead Feb. 11 inside the town of Medary home where Dikeman and Alexavier resided. Quinton, who appeared by video, told the court that Alexavier sustained a constellation of injuries to the head, trunk and extremities. Quinton said Alexavier was found with an amount of alprazolam in his system that would be considered elevated for an adult. The prescription drug, which goes by the commercial name Xanax, is an antidepressant. Quinton said the drug reduced Alexaviers respiratory drive when he was already suffering from injuries to his brain, liver and pancreas. Defense attorney Chris Zachar pressed Quinton on how precisely he could determine the time that Alexaviers injuries occurred. Quinton said he couldnt pin down the exact hour the injuries occurred and offered no opinion on how the injuries were inflicted. According to the criminal complaint, Dikeman called 911 around 9:30 a.m. the day Alexavier died and reported he was on the ground and unresponsive next to an empty Prednisone pill bottle. He was pronounced dead at 9:45 a.m. Quinton said the autopsy found no Prednisone in Alexaviers system. After the hearing, Levine denied a motion to reduce Dikemans $1 million cash bail to $10,000. Zachar argued that Dikeman has no other open cases and that shes entitled to a presumption of innocence. He said Dikeman poses no threat to the community since the children with whom she shared a residence have been placed elsewhere. Gruenke argued against bail reduction. He said Dikeman still poses a threat to the community and that multiple children under her care have ended up with fractures. Levine said nothing has changed since Judge Ramona Gonzalez imposed the $1 million bond May 22. Zachar said he intends to raise the issue again June 9. The Western Wisconsin AFL-CIO has teamed up with the Union Sportsmens Alliances Boots on the Ground conservation program to host the 11th annual Take Kids Fishing Day from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, June 3, at Chad Erickson Memorial Park, 3601 Park Lane Drive in La Crosse. Fishing poles (to keep!), bait, lunch and door prizes will be provided by the WWAFLCIO, but participants must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone. Fishing poles to keep are limited to the first 125 children registered and attending. More than 125 children and their parents attended last years event. Since June 3 is part of Wisconsins Free Fishing Weekend, adults wont need licenses to join their children to fish. Not only do kids love to fish, but its satisfying for grown-ups to watch a kid whos all smiles while catching a fish, large or small and with school ending, theres no better time than now to get a youngster hooked on fishing, said Mike Davis Jr., president of the Western Wisconsin AFL-CIO. Its also a great way to show area residents the cornucopia of public access fishing spots in the Coulee Region. Registration is strongly encouraged. To register, visit the Eventbrite page for the 2023 Take Kids Fishing La Crosse and sign up before noon on Friday. We like to think the event gives kids a chance to try fishing that wouldnt have otherwise tried it, Bill Brockmiller, Western Wisconsin AFL-CIO treasurer, said. Its nice to get back to nature for a morning. Brockmiller said the events non-existent cost-barrier is to encourage kids to give fishing a try. Each of us are all wired differently, but some kids are going to try it and enjoy it, Brockmiller said. You dont have to go to Canada to fish. We have wonderful opportunities both on the river and off here and in our area. For more information about the event or to find out how you can help, contact Mike Davis Jr. at 608-799-1313 or email president@westernwisconsinaflcio.org. For the 11th year Ace Hardware of La Crosse will donate bait for the event. The USAs Boots on the Ground program brings together union members from around the country, who volunteer their time and expertise, to tackle conservation projects that improve and enhance public access, wildlife habitat and outdoor experiences for communities across America. Minneapolis Star Tribune. May 23, 2023. Editorial: A major investment in the education of Minnesota kids Education funding is critical. Now the big test is ensuring that it is used wisely to boost achievement. Minnesota lawmakers made good on a promise by Gov. Tim Walz and approved a historic budget for K-12 education $2.2 billion in new funding will go to schools and young learners. The total amount spent on educating kids will be about $23.2 billion in the next two years. But what will Minnesota students and their families get for that hefty price tag, which represents about a third of the total state budget? As the Star Tribune Editorial Board previously noted, the largest chunk of the new spending rightly boosts the general education per-pupil amount by 4% in the first year and 2% in year two. And the increase will wisely raise funding to support special education and English-language learning. Some of the new dollars will be used to make much-needed improvements in student reading. Test scores show that nearly half of Minnesota public school students cant read at the appropriate grade level dismal results reflected in test scores for students across the country. Minnesotas Read Act, which is included in the broader education bill, requires districts to select from three state-approved literacy plans that emphasize phonics, vocabulary and phonemic awareness. Until now, districts could choose their approach to reading. Some selected whats known as the whole language strategy, which did not work well for some students. The bill provides $35 million for districts to train teachers in the approved programs. Its been a long time coming, but lawmakers also finally approved requiring civics, government and personal finance classes for graduation. National data and anecdotal accounts locally indicate that civics education declined since the early 2000s, indicating the need for improvement. A 2016 national study found that only a quarter of Americans (students and adults) can name all three branches of government. And recently, the National Assessment of Educational Progress reported poor results for civics and government knowledge among eighth-graders. In another positive move for districts, school boards will be allowed to renew their existing operating referendums one time without going to voters for approval. That provision will bring more stability to school budgets and eliminate the need to wage renewal campaigns quite so often. Promisingly, some areas of the spending package had bipartisan support. The two parties agreed that more funding should go to the general per-pupil student formula (though they differed on the amount), that reading instruction should be revamped and that civics education is important. Still, the measure passed mostly along party lines. Republican critics of the new spending package said that it included too many unfunded requirements for districts. Some also argued that the bill fails to place enough emphasis on academic achievement. Those criticisms should be considered as the changes are evaluated over time. This bill puts mandates over money. It puts mandates over students, and it takes away local control, Rep. Jeff Backer, R-Browns Valley, said during the House debate. But most DFLers believe this bill is transformational. The work weve done over the last five months will make a generational impact on our state it will lower costs, improve lives, and cut child poverty, Gov. Tim Walz said in a statement. In January I outlined a vision to make Minnesota the best state in the nation for kids to grow up in. The DFL-led Legislature delivered on that promise. The investment is welcome and, if effectively used, will pay dividends for decades to come. Mankato Free Press. May 24, 2023. Editorial: Legislature Consequential session brings mostly good changes Its often said that elections have consequences. The completion of the Minnesota legislative session with Democrats in the drivers seat certainly demonstrated that. Now well have to see if sessions have consequences and for who. Democrats see transformational consequences for Minnesota families, children and people of color, but also urban and rural residents. From free college tuition for those who qualify to millions for nursing homes, and from robust increases in school funding to after three years of trying the biggest infrastructure bill ever. Then there are the social/life issues like legalizing recreational marijuana and solidifying abortion rights in statute that have been insurmountable issues in a divided government. The business community loathed the increase in some user fee/taxes, with the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce saying every employer in Minnesota will be impacted from spending an $18 billion surplus to imposing $10 billion in new taxes over the next four years, 38% growth in state government spending, far-reaching new programs and mandates with a litany of new regulations and that Minnesotas opportunity for economic growth and success was squandered. Business interests should be taken seriously. Almost everyones livelihood can be traced to a business or the prosperity of the economy. But business is likely to benefit as well from things like affordable housing subsidies for workers. Paid family and medical leave was the biggest attention getter as business fought the added costs and more than a few worry about the added expense and getting employees in a severely tight labor market. It was the No. 2 priority for DFLers behind abortion rights. It may be the biggest test case for the DFL policies if family and medical leave will have overall positive consequences for businesses and employees, or if it will further exacerbate worker shortages. One sign of hope is that the Minnesota labor force participation rate is higher than the national average at around 68% and has been increasing since the pandemic. Now that the COVID-19 emergency has been allowed to expire, we may see more people entering the workforce. Adding free college for those lower-income families also may give employers a boost in getting more qualified workers. There were a number of bipartisan successes as well. Drivers licenses for all, nursing home funding and free breakfast and lunch for all school children count as consequential ways that will provide assistance for young and old, and people of all races and ethnicities. Democrats and Republicans supported a nearly $1 billion investment in homeless and affordable housing, the biggest gain ever. Public safety got a big boost with expanded background checks and red flag laws while boosting funding to recruit more officers and giving cities more money to hire them and expand their forces. These pages have long said background checks and red flag laws must be a priority. Well all be a little bit safer now. The economic consequences of this session will be worth watching. Since the 1980s, elected officials, mostly Republicans, have invested in the supply side of the economy with tax cuts and other business subsidies. The DFL passed public investment strategy is decidedly consumer/demand side. We believe most of the changes have been for the good of the people. The next few years will be a test to see which economic investment strategy brought more prosperity, and that may instruct the future. END Eau Claire Leader-Telegram. May 25, 2023. Editorial: Report underscores importance of extracurricular activities The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction released its 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey this week and it includes information that should give Wisconsin school districts pause when they consider cutting extracurricular activities. Such activities can become targets when districts have tight budgets. Thats understandable to some degree. Its easier to make the case for protecting spending that directly relates to the classroom than it is for activities that take place outside normal hours and involve far fewer students. What that ignores, though, is the apparent protective effect on students mental health that extracurricular activities provide. Many people look back on their high school years as one of the best times of their lives. What is often lost as years replace reality with rose-colored glasses is that it is also a phenomenally stressful time. High school is when children learn to become adults. As we noted not long ago, the gulf between a 14- or 15-year-old freshman and an 18-year-old senior is immense. They experience rapid mental, physical and emotional changes. Their social worlds become much more complex. Yes, there are good times with lifelong friends. But there are also difficult days. How could there not be in such a rapidly evolving situation? And it shows. More than half of the students surveyed reported they were anxious about their lives. Extracurricular activities, the report found, were clearly associated with helping students maintain a sense that they belong in school and that they have supportive teachers. Only 45% of the students said they belonged when they did not participate in extracurricular activities. That figure jumped to 69% for those who did. Rates for anxiety, depression and those considering suicide were similarly lower for students who were in extracurriculars. Those involved in extracurricular activities were less than half as likely to attempt suicide as those who were not. Thats important because there are some concerning trends involving students mental health. The percentage of students considering suicide fell for two decades, but has begun to climb again. The report says 27% of students seriously considered a suicide attempt in 1993. That was down to 13% in 2013. Since then, the figures have climbed again. Surveys in 2017 and 2019 found 16% of students reported serious consideration of suicide. The figure rose again in 2021, to 18%. That should be an immediate concern for parents and educators. Interestingly, one of the things many adults think of as an essential step in growing up seems to exacerbate mental health challenges for students. Those who work more than 10 hours per week had higher rates for both anxiety and depression. There is good news from the report, too. Alcohol consumption is generally down. Slightly more than a quarter of students in the newest survey reported having consumed alcohol in the past 30 days. The figure was 54% in 2001. The percentage of students reporting abuse of over-the-counter medications is falling, though abuse of prescription painkillers is largely unchanged. And the 10.2% of students who said they were offered drugs at school was at its lowest recorded level. When we editorialized earlier this week about mental health issues, we praised efforts to raise awareness. This report should act in the same vein, albeit with a sharply different focus. It should remind adults who make the decisions about funding and activities that providing them accomplishes more than creating well-rounded teens. It can make a profound difference in students lives in both the short and long terms. Being a teenager is hard enough. If we think back, we can all remember difficult times from our own high school years. We can also remember what helped. Having extracurricular outlets provides an effective and important safety net for many students, and we hope those in positions of authority remember it. Kenosha News. May 28, 2023. Editorial: Sidestep school ban on chocolate milk When we read this month the U.S. Department of Agriculture was proposing a ban on chocolate and strawberry milk in the nations elementary and middle school cafeterias, we thought we were in for a food fight. Sure enough, no sooner had the proposal gone out when it was lambasted as an over-reach by the Biden administration and an intrusion on the rights of parents to determine what is best for their children. The goal of the USDA proposal, of course, is to fight childhood obesity, and yes, that is a concern. The Center for Disease Control estimates that 14.7 million youngsters in the U.S. between the ages of 2 and 19 are obese. Some of that, experts say, lay at the feet of sugar consumption and thats why the USDA put a bulls-eye on chocolate milk consumption in schools since the flavored milks, strawberry included, have significantly more sugar than 1% low-fat white milk. In fact, a cup of low-fat chocolate milk has 25 grams of sugar and that is right up there with the 26 grams contained in a cup of Coca-Cola, experts say. But we wondered if a total ban on chocolate milk would mean students would decline a transition to white milk and that has happened according to past studies. And what happens then to the beneficial nutrients found in milk. A cup of chocolate milk has 280 milligrams of calcium, 21 percent of the recommended daily intake. It is the main source of calcium intake which is essential for bone growth. Its also high in vitamin D, potassium and other essential nutrients. By banning chocolate milk is the USDA throwing the baby out with the bathwater? To get some perspective on this debate, we contacted Stacey Tapp, Chief of Communication and Community Engagement for the Racine Unified School District and asked what were the consumption records at our schools and what the districts position was on the ban. Tapp told us, During lunch service in RUSD, we offer 1% and fat free white milk along with fat-free chocolate milk. We find that approximately 80% of the students take chocolate milk with their lunch. She said strawberry milk was offered randomly in prior years as a treat, but dairies have not been producing it in 8 oz. cartons since the pandemic. Flavored milk is popular among students, so our concern would be that by eliminating the flavored milk option, we may experience a reduction in milk consumption. Wed like to see a requirement to reduce the sugar content in flavored milk, Tapp said. That seems to us like a sensible compromise. And, in fact, more than a month ago, the International Dairy Foods Association, announced an initiative to cut added sugars in flavored milk by the 2025-26 school year. The IDFA said it could reduce added sugars in chocolate and other flavored milk to up to 10 grams per 8-oz. serving and that 37 milk producers representing more than 90% of the school milk volume in the U.S. have volunteered for the initiative. While the USDA chocolate milk ban got the headlines, that IDFA proposal would appear hopefully to meet USDA goals. We have often argued here for compromises in order to avoid politically polarized actions. There appears here a good chance that the goal of reduced sugar in chocolate milk could be attained without a total ban and we would urge milk producers and the USDA to work toward that goal. The ultimate test, of course, will be if grade school students and middle school students are receptive to a sugared-down chocolate milk. It might take some getting used to. END GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) A Green Bay man has been sentenced to life in prison for a drug-related killing in which prosecutors said the victims body was later burned at his order. Pedro Santiago-Marquez, 34, was sentenced Tuesday in Brown County Circuit Court to life in prison with the possibility of release on extended supervision in July 2064, the Green Bay Press-Gazette reported. A jury had convicted Santiago-Marquez in March of first-degree intentional homicide and mutilating a corpse in the 2021 slaying of Jason Mendez-Ramos, 36, of Ashwaubenon. Santiago-Marquez was also sentenced Tuesday to 10 years on the charge of mutilating a corpse, with that sentence to be served concurrent with his life sentence. Jurors determined that Santiago-Marquez either shot or ordered Mendez-Ramos' shooting on Sept. 27, 2021, and later that day ordered his body burned. Mendez-Ramos remains were found the next day on the grounds of the Cofrin Memorial Arboretum. Investigators said Santiago-Marquez had owed Mendez-Ramos money related to drug trafficking. Santiago-Marquez maintained his innocence at Tuesday's sentencing hearing, saying he did not kill Mendez-Ramos and calling him his best friend. A package of bills seeking to tighten sexual assault reporting and enforcement in the National Guard received a public hearing Wednesday, four years after an investigation found a litany of failings in how the Guard handled sexual assault and harassment allegations between 2009 and 2019. The bills were produced by a study committee of legislators, Guard members, veterans and advocates in response to a scathing 2019 report by the National Guard Bureaus Office of Complex Investigations, which found the Guards policies and procedures for handling allegations of sexual misconduct are out of date, ineffective, understaffed and in violation of federal rules. The study committee identified a number of areas in which legislation will complement the Guards continuing efforts to ensure that the men and women who volunteer to serve our state and nation are able to do so in an environment that takes their safety seriously, Rep. Tony Kurtz, R-Wonewoc, who chaired the study committee, said before the Assembly Veterans and Military Affairs Committee. The federal review stemmed from allegations that officers with the Guards 115th Fighter Wing, based at Madisons Truax Field, had dismissed at least six incidents of sexual assault or harassment. The 2019 report led to the almost immediate resignation of then-Guard Adj. Gen. Donald Dunbar at the urging of Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, who would almost certainly sign the bills into law. The report found that the Guards decision to use its own investigators for sexual assault allegations, instead of referring them to local law enforcement or other external authorities, violated Department of Defense and National Guard Bureau policies. It also found that Guard officials failed to properly track sexual harassment allegations and that the Guards sexual assault prevention policy hadnt complied with federal law since 2014. One of the bills, AB 177, would clarify that local law enforcement, not the National Guard, has jurisdiction over sexual assaults. The measure also would prohibit officers from making sexual advances on trainees or recruits enlisted under a delayed entry program. A second bill, AB 178 requires Guard officials to submit data annually on sexual assault allegations. Under the bill, the data must include a summary of training materials the Guard administers to prevent sexual assault and a summary of policies designed to prevent sexual assault. Another bill, AB 179, would require the Guard to manage and track all misconduct cases. The Guard would have to determine what misconduct means under the bill. I am hopeful these bills will become law in a bipartisan manner and that we continue this focus on preventing misconduct and supporting survivors of sexual assault, Senate Minority Leader Melissa Agard, D-Madison, said after the hearing. We must send a clear message that our government recognizes, believes and always stands with survivors. The measures appeared to receive bipartisan support from the Assembly Veterans Committee. One point of disagreement in the public hearing came from a lawmakers objection to a section of AB 177 that would amend a provision that prohibited conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman, by stripping and a gentleman from the language. The move is in line with the federal military justice codes removal of gender-specific language. My concern is for a thousand years the idea of gentlemen, gentlepeople leading our military has been part of the culture of the military, Rep. Shae Sortwell, R-Two Rivers, said, adding that he would like to keep the word gentleman in Wisconsin law and add gentlelady. Kurtz responded that in todays modern military the same standards apply to everybody, adding that prohibiting conduct unbecoming an officer is sufficient. Police are searching for three gunmen who they believe opened fire along a crowded Florida beach promenade, wounding nine. Hollywood police say the three ran from the scene during Monday night's chaos along the city's popular beachfront. Two people who were involved in the altercation that led to the shooting have been arrested on firearms charges. Police say five handguns have been recovered, including two that were stolen. Police and witnesses say the shooting began after two groups started fighting. Some in the groups drew weapons and fired, with some of the shots hitting bystanders. There was already a heavy police presence because of the crowds. Hollywood is between Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Today's Highlight on May 31, 1889, some 2,200 people in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, perished when the south Fork dam collapsed, sending 20 million tons of water rushing through the town. On this date in 1790, President George Washington signed into law the first u.s. copyright act. in 1859, the big ben clock tower in London went into operation, chiming for the first time. in 1921, a race riot erupted in Tulsa, Oklahoma, as white mobs began looting and leveling the affluent black district of Greenwood over reports a black man had assaulted a white woman in an elevator; hundreds are believed to have died. in 1949, former state department official and accused spy alger Hiss went on trial in new York, charged with perjury (the jury deadlocked, but Hiss was convicted in a second trial). in 1962, former nazi official Adolf Eichmann was hanged in Israel a few minutes before midnight for his role in the Holocaust. in 1970, a magnitude 7.9 earthquake in Peru claimed an estimated 67,000 lives. Ramsay Hunt syndrome (type 2), or RHS, has been in the news recently because Sen. Diane Feinstein from California developed it, along with encephalitis (brain inflammation), as a complication of shingles viral infection. On June 22, 2022, pop star Justin Bieber also announced he was diagnosed with it. In a video he posted at that time, he said the virus had affected nerves in his ear and face, and that his eye was not blinking. This year he has shown a video with him recovered. Ramsay Hunt was an officer and neurologist in the U.S. Army in the early 1900s. He described this syndrome in 1907 with patient observation as his only tool. The concepts and documentation of viruses and bacteria were Ramsay yet to be discovered. He also described two other neurological disorders still recognized today. Shingles occurs when a dormant or arrested nest of chickenpox viruses in your central nervous system nerve roots are reactivated somehow. They have been contained there ever since you had chickenpox or varicella, whatever age. Their arrest can become defective somehow, and they multiply and migrate from the nerve root down its branches, to the skin and muscle they innervate. They pop out as a band or pattern of blisters, which contain the virus. They are often very painful. In RHS the viruses are in your seventh or facial nerve root or geniculate ganglion. Shingles is usually unilateral or on one side. It is notorious for causing mysterious, baffling, excruciating pain in the nerve distribution, days before the eruption. In RHS it may be in one ear or the jaw on that side. This pain precedes the rash and facial paralysis by a week or more. Initial symptoms often are painful blisters in your ear canal and on external ear, facial paralysis, rash on your tongue, throat and roof of mouth of the same side, jaw and/or neck pain, taste loss on the front two-thirds of your tongue, severe pain and ringing (or tinnitus) in that ear, hearing loss, dry eye or mouth, and hoarseness, all unilateral. You may not get everything. Severity also varies greatly from case to case. Because the seventh facial nerve is near the eighth cranial nerve or hearing nerve root, you could get hearing loss, sensitivity to loud sounds (hyperacusis), and vertigo or dizziness. The diagnosis is pretty evident if enough features are present. Once in a while there is no visible eruption, which confuses everyone. Then some tests can be done. One might be an MRI to rule out other possible causes of facial paralysis like stroke, Lyme disease, cancer, tumors, etc. RHS is pretty rare, affecting about 5 out of every 100,000 people a year in the U.S. It is the second most common cause of facial paralysis. Bell's palsy is the most common cause. Less than 1% of shingles cases involve the facial nerve and result in RHS. Treatment works best if begun in the first 72 hours or 3 days of symptoms. You can still use the medicines after that, but the effects may not be as beneficial. The main drug given is an antiviral for the infection like acyclovir or valacyclovir for at least a week to three weeks. Oral prednisone, a cortisone, is another crucial medicine that reduces the inflammation and the possible scarring of the nerve. These start to work right away, but don't help damage already done. Other drugs for issues like dizziness may be needed. The outlook depends on early diagnosis, initial severity, patient age, other medical conditions, and how soon treatment is started. Overall, 30-70% of RHS patients recover most function, but complete recoveries with no lingering symptoms are unfortunately in the minority. Some cases experience permanent paralysis, long-term pain or hearing loss. The news and social media reports of Bieber seem to indicate complete recovery, which is wonderful. Time will have to tell for Feinstein. The only possible prophylactic for prevention is the shingles vaccine, which is good advice for anyone. It's not perfect, but better than chancing a persistent, hard to treat pain or paralysis. On that cheerful note, have a pleasant holiday. dr. Frank Bures, a semi-retired dermatologist, has worked Winona, La Crosse, Viroqua and Red Wing since 1978. He also plays clarinet in the Winona Municipal Band and a couple Dixieland groups. WEDNESDAY May 31, 2023 All times Central. Start times can vary based on cable/satellite provider. Confi rm times on your on-screen guide. Ted Lasso Apple TV+ Season Finale The acclaimed comedy starring Jason Sudeikis concludes its third season with the episode dropping today. 'Indiana Jones' Movies & Series Now Streaming Disney+ Starting today, you can stream all four of the classic adventure films led by Harrison Ford as daredevil archaeologist Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984), Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989) and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008). Also available is The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones, a repackaging of the 1992-93 TV series The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles, which starred Sean Patrick Flanery as a late-teens/ early-20s Indy and Corey Carrier as the hero at ages 8 through 10. Drag Me to Dinner Hulu New Series Murray Hill hosts and Neil Patrick Harris judges this new unscripted series about successful drag queens going head-to-head to throw the most fabulous dinner parties of all time. Scripps National Spelling Bee Continues

Quarterfinals: ION Plus, beginning at 7 a.m. Semifinals: ION, 7 p.m.; also streams on ION Plus and Bounce XL Coverage continues with the quarterfinal rounds, with five hours of coverage on the ION Plus streaming service. The evening features coverage of the semifinal rounds on ION. Nancy Drew The CW, 7 p.m. Season Premiere The fourth and final season of this beloved show about a teenage detective solving crimes around her haunted hometown in Maine begins tonight, as Nancy (Kennedy McMann) launches a new investigation to fi nd a group of missing bodies from a cemetery. FDR History, 7 p.m. Series Finale The three-part docuseries concludes with "Arsenal of Democracy," which follows U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt as he rallies the industrial might of the nation and leads the Allied forces through the darkest days of World War II. Sistas BET, 8 p.m. Season Premiere Tyler Perry's comedy/drama returns for Season 6 with "Straight No Chaser," in which Danni (Mignon Von) wallows in self-pity until an encounter with Preston (Trinity Whiteside) threatens to send her off the deep end. Riverdale The CW, 8 p.m. In "Chapter One Hundred Twenty-Seven: American Graffi ti," Jughead (Cole Sprouse) and Tabitha (Erinn Westbrook) team up to investigate a mystery involving Ray Bradbury. Ghost Adventures Discovery Channel, 9 p.m. Season Premiere The paranormal investigation series returns for a new season on a new, larger platform, moving from Travel Channel to Discovery. It kicks off tonight with a special two-hour episode in which investigators Zak Bagans, Aaron Goodwin, Jay Wasley and Billy Tolley investigate the deadly secrets along the Hoover Dam's Lake Mead. Dovetailing with Wisconsins annual observation of June Dairy Month, the Fontana Public Library will be presenting Cheese, Please, a free dairy-themed adult education class on cheese and cheese-making in Wisconsin. Cheese, Please! will be held on Tuesday, June 6 at 1 p.m. in the meeting room at Fontana Village Hall, 175 Valley View Dr. (State Hwy. 67), Fontana. I chose the topic because June is Dairy Month, said Fontana Public Library Adult Program Coordinator Sally Lee. Denise and Terry Woods, of Highfield Farm Creamery, will talk about their cheese and the cheese-making process. They are passionate about cheese and they love their cows. Denise and Terry were here probably four years ago or so and they did a really nice program. Theyre very knowledgeable about cheese and the cheese-making process. It seems fitting to ask them again, especially in June. Highfield Farm Creamery is located at W4848 State Line Rd. in the Town of Linn. Terry Woods, who became a licensed Wisconsin cheesemaker in 2015, works alongside his wife Denise running the states smallest milking parlor and crafting and selling handcrafted artisinal farmstead cheese curds and cave-aged cheeses, which are available at The Green Grocer & Deli, 24 W. Geneva St. (State Hwy. 67) in downtown Williams Bay; Pearces Farm Stand, W5740 N. Walworth Rd. in Walworth; Royal Oak Farm Orchard, 15908 Hebron Rd. in Harvard, Ill.; online through Alden Hills Organic Farms (aldenhillsorganicfarms.com); and on the menu at farm-to-table restaurant Fire 2 Fork, 2484 County Hwy. O South in Delavan. After closures in 2020, 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Highfield Farm Creamerys popular small farmshop retail store is slated to reopen sometime in June, the date still to be announced. As part of the June 6 program at the Fontana Public Library, samples of Highfield Farm Creamerys artisinal cheese products will be offered to attendees. There will be cheese tasting, which will be special, Lee said. Denise Woods said she and her husband plan to bring three different Highfield Farm Creamery cheeses, produced in 10-pound wheels, for sampling aged cheddar, a Colby-style cheese called Stir Crazy, and a semi-soft cheese called Snowflake. An informative and educational program is planned. Were the only cheese-makers in southeast Wisconsin, Woods said. We milk our own cows and make our own cheese. Were a very small farmstead operation. Well be talking about being cheesemakers, a little bit about the history of the farm, why we chose the kind of cows we have, how Terry started his training in Scotland to become a cheesemaker and all the hoops we had to go through with the state to become cheesemakers, how our year goes and what kind of cheeses we make ... and answer a lot of questions. Therell be some recipes available and information on how to store cheese, how to buy cheese, how much to buy to for an event or gathering, and how to pair it and serve it. Getting dairy from farm to table is a complex process and farmers are adapting to get it there A different way to farm: Using agritourism to bolster dairy operations Getting dairy from farm cow to your fridge is more complex than you think Technology is reinventing dairy production and its helping farmers keep pace Upcoming events Other upcoming free events at the Fontana Public Library, announced by Lee, include the following: Memory Screening Memory screenings, a wellness tool that helps identify possible changes in memory and cognitio,n will be offered on Friday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the librarys board room, courtesy of the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Walworth County. To make an appointment, contact Jake Sawyers at 262-741-3273. Harmonica 101 The program Harmonica 101 will be presented by Dale Boschke, of Milwaukee and Tucson, on Wednesday, June 28 from 1-3 p.m. in the upstairs meeting room at Fontana Village Hall, 175 Valley View Dr. (State Hwy. 67). If participants want to fully participate, they should bring a 10-hole diatonic harmonica in the key of C. Otherwise, its acceptable to just come and listen. If there is enough interest, Boschke will come back and teach another class. Boschke has been playing harmonica for more than 30 years. He has taught harmonica classes and has played in Milwaukees South End Blues Band for 13 years. Badger Talks: What Does Lake Ice Seasonality Tell Us About Climate Change Scheduled for Tuesday, July 11 at 1 p.m. in the Fontana Village Hall meeting room, University of Wisconsin-Madison Professor Emeritus Dr. John J. Magnuson, an aquatic ecologist and limnologist with a special interest in fish and fisheries ecology, will discuss what lake ice records reveal about how Wisconsins climate has changed. Learn more For more information on Highfield Farm Creamery, call 262-275-3027 or visit facebook.com/HighfieldFarmCreamery. For more information about the Fontana Public Library and its programs, call 262-275-5107 or visit fontana.lib.wi.us. IN 16 PHOTOS: Fontana Elementary School presents "The Wizard of Oz: Junior Edition" - April 14.15, 2023 "Somewhere, over the rainbow..." Uncle Henry and Aunt Em on their Kansas farm Miss Almira Gulch comes to take away canine Toto and have him destroyed Dorothy Gale consults with psychic reader Professor Marvel The Mayor of Oz "Tot Munchkins" sing and dance in Fontana Elementary School's April 14-15 production of "The Wizard of Oz: Junior Edition" Scarecrow, Tin Man and Dorothy in the April 14-15 Fontana Elementary School production of "The Wizard of Oz: Junior Edition" Jitterbugs swarm in Nikko, leader of the Winged Monkeys "I'll get you my pretty and your little dog, too!" Things look bleak for Dorothy Gale in the dungeon of the Wicked Witch's castle as time runs out Arrival at Emerald City The Wizard of Oz (Alex Cudnik) in the April 14-15, 2023 production of "The Wizard of Oz: Junior Edition" Glinda, the Good Witch of the North "There's no place like home..." Dorothy awakens back in Kansas, surrounded by concerned family and friends EIR LEAD EDITORIAL FOR WEDNESDAY MAY 31, 2023 Make June 10 a Signal to the World May 30, 2023, 2022 (EIRNS)Sixty years ago June 10, President John F. Kennedy spoke on the highest level of the world situation, which only six months before had been on the brink of annihilation from the major power confrontation called the Cuban Missile Crisis. On June 10, Kennedy stressed the common grounds upon which the United States and the Soviet Union, and all other nations as well, could not only get along, but thrive. To mark this occasion the Schiller Institute will be holding an eventonline, as well as in personintended not only for the U.S., but also for the international community. The invitation will be posted shortly. The purpose of that event, and other activities that day, is to honor a great statesman and to also send a signal to the world that the United States can shift direction away from its current non-American war-drive policies, and be returned to the principles of its founding mandate, which have contributed to past U.S. achievements for humanity. This call to send a signal on June 10 was stated today by Schiller Institute founder and leader Helga Zepp-LaRouche, who stressed two points: First, the escalation today of the danger of all-out war, and, second, that there is power among people in other nations calling on the United States to return to reason and morality. People are invited from around the world to sign and circulate the statement issued by the Schiller Institute on May 17, Urgent Appeal by Citizens and Institutions from All Over the World to the (Next) President of the United States! The statement makes clear: Since Russia and the U.S. presently have 90% of all nuclear weapons directed against each other, which weapons could destroy the world many times over, it is an urgent matter of concern for every human being on Earth that we find a way out. The solution must be on a plane that overcomes geopolitics and takes on the perspective of the interest of one humanity. The provocations and conflict flashpoints are escalating between the U.S. and Global NATO, and Russia and China. Today, reportedly, eight drones were sent against Moscow. President Vladimir Putin said that the drone attacks, some of which targeted residential buildings, are an obvious terrorist approach. ... However, I am not even so much concerned about this as over the attempts to trigger a Russian response. Apparently, they are provoking us into responding in a like manner. We will have to consider how to approach this. In Central Europe, NATO is now deployed in the midst of the violence zone in the Kosovo-Serbian situation. This conflict has been deliberately stoked by Western operations as a flash point against Serbia, for its refusal to submit to anti-Russian, anti-Chinese alignment with Global NATO. Despite these and other provocations, individual nations and institutions are looking to their own interests, and mutual interests with Russia, China and others, including to increase trade, despite the thousands of Western sanctions. For example, UNASURthe organization of South American nations, had its heads of state meeting today in Brasilia with auspicious attendance and good willfrom leaders recently set against each other. Host President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gave a warm welcoming address. Yesterday he met with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, including discussion of restoring electricity interconnections between the two countries, and other basics, which until now were disrupted by adherence to the heavy U.S. sanctions against Maduro and his government. In Shanghai, the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB) President Dilma Rousseff, former President of Brazil, likewise struck a note of hope for the future, at the 8th Annual Meeting of the NDB, whose theme is Shaping a New Era for Global Development. However, it is critical to understand that the world cannot continue for very long with two blocsthe Global NATO axis and the Global Majority community of nations. There can be no new era for global development, nor any security, nor any peace, in a world so divided. This was the third point stressed by Zepp-LaRouche today, calling for everyone to mobilize. This is a special moment of opportunity. Multi-millions outside the United States wonder, What has happened to the United States? Why are its top leaders so venal, stupid, uninformed and arrogant? Now is the time to intervene. Sign the Schiller Institute statement, Urgent Appeal by Citizens and Institutions from All Over the World to the (Next) President of the United States! Issue statements. Take action. Send the signal for June 10th. Chinas growing space program plans to put astronauts on the moon by 2030 and expand the countrys orbiting space station, officials said earlier this week. The announcement comes at a time of competition with the United States over space exploration and global issues. The Chinese and U.S. competition is similar in some ways to the space race between the United States and the former Soviet Union in the 1960s and 1970s. However, experts say American spending, supply chains and abilities put it ahead of China -- for now. The U.S. plans to land astronauts on the moon by the end of 2025. NASA is working with private companies SpaceX and Blue Origin to help with the moon landings. Chinas space agency this week also introduced three astronauts heading to its space station. They will replace a crew that has been on the orbiting station for six months. We have a complete near-Earth human space station and human round-trip transportation system, said Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the Chinese Manned Space Agency. Lin added that a plan of two crewed missions a year should be enough for their program goals. Reports say the Tiangong space station finished in November. The Shenzhou 16 rocket will carry the three astronauts to the station. There, the team will briefly spend time with the other three astronauts who have lived on the station for the past six months. Mission commander Jing Haipeng recently spoke to reporters at the launch site outside the northwestern city of Jiuquan. Jing said the mission marked a new stage of application and development in Chinas space program. We firmly believe that the spring of Chinas space science has arrived, and we have the determination, confidence, and ability to . . . complete the mission, said Jing, a major general who has already made three space flights. Chinas first manned space mission in 2003 made it the third country to put a person into space. China built its own space station after it was excluded from the International Space Station (ISS). This was largely because of U.S. objections to Chinas space program. The U.S. was worried about close connections between the program and the Peoples Liberation Army, the military part of the Chinese Communist Party. Five partner organizations, including the European Space Agency and NASA, control the operations of the ISS. The U.S. plans to land near the moons south pole near the end of 2025. Scientists believe that area contains frozen water. Both China and the U.S. are looking at plans to build permanent bases on the moon. This brings questions about rights and interests on the moons surface. American law does not permit much cooperation between the two countries space programs. However, China says it welcomes foreign offers to work together on space projects. Li Yingliang is the technology director of the Chinese crewed space flight agency. He said China hoped for more international collaboration, including with the U.S. As long as the goal is to use space for peaceful purposes, Li said, we are willing to cooperate and communicate with any country or aerospace organization. Other organizations and countries, from India and the United Arab Emirates to Israel and the European Union, are also planning missions to the moon. Im Andrew Smith. Andrew Smith adapted this story from reporting from The Associated Press. ___________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story global -adj. relating to the whole Earth introduce -v. to present or show a person, thing, or idea for the first time application -n. the use of some device, process, or idea determination -n. a strong will to do or something ___________________________________________________________________ We want to hear from you. We have a new comment system. Here is how it works: Write your comment in the box. Under the box, you can see four images for social media accounts. They are for Disqus, Facebook, Twitter and Google. Click on one image and a box appears. Enter the login for your social media account. Or you may create one on the Disqus system. It is the blue circle with D on it. It is free. Each time you return to comment on the Learning English site, you can use your account and see your comments and replies to them. Our comment policy is here. North Koreas attempt to put its first military satellite into orbit failed Wednesday. The unsuccessful launch was a setback for leader Kim Jong Un. Kim has pushed to increase his countrys military strength with new weapons. State news agency KCNA said the new "Chollima-1" satellite launch rocket failed because of instability in the engine and fuel system. The launch was North Koreas sixth satellite launch attempt, but its first since 2016. The launch caused emergency alerts and brief evacuation warnings in parts of South Korea and Japan. The warnings were later cancelled with no damage reported. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the military was carrying out an operation to recover what are believed to be parts of the space launch vehicle. The military shared pictures of a large object floating in the sea about 200 kilometers off the west coast island of Eocheongdo. George William Herbert of the Center for Nonproliferation Studies is a missile expert. He said the images showed at least part of a rocket, including an "interstage" part designed to connect to another part. Japans foreign ministry said officials from the United States, Japan, and South Korea held a phone call in which they "strongly condemned" the launch. North Korea had said it would launch its first military spy satellite between May 31 and June 11 to increase surveillance of U.S. military activities. The North Korean rocket fell into the sea "after losing thrust due to the abnormal starting of the second-stage engine," state news reported. State media said North Koreas National Aerospace Development Administration said it would investigate the "serious defects before conducting a second launch as soon as possible. Leif-Eric Easley is a professor at Ewha University in Seoul. He said it would have been hard for North Korea to hide the failure internationally. But it will likely offer North Korean citizens a different story. This outcome also suggests that Pyongyang may stage another provocation soon, in part to make up for todays setback, Easley added. The United Nations placed economic sanctions on North Korea over earlier satellite and missile launches and its nuclear program. But the U.N. has not reacted to recent tests. China and Russia have blocked attempts to increase the sanctions. The two nations are permanent Security Council members. The U.S. said it would take all necessary measures to protect the American homeland and to defend South Korea and Japan. Ri Pyong Chol is a top North Korean official. On Tuesday, he said the North needs a space-based surveillance system to balance growing security threats from South Korea and the United States. However, the spy satellite shown earlier in the countrys state-run media did not appear to be able to produce high quality images. Some experts said it might be able to observe troop movements and large targets like warships and warplanes. Lee Choon Geun is an expert with South Koreas Science and Technology Policy Institute. He said, with three to five spy satellites, North Korea could build a surveillance system to observe the Korean Peninsula at all times. The satellite is one of several high-technology weapon systems that Kim has publicly promised. Other weapons include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, an intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. After several failures, North Korea successfully put its first satellite into orbit in 2012 and a second in 2016. The government said both are Earth observation satellites launched under its peaceful space development program. But many foreign experts believe both were developed to spy on other nations. Observers say there has been no evidence that the satellites have ever sent images back to North Korea. Im Dan Novak. Dan Novak adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on reporting by Reuters and The Associated Press. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story instability n. the state of being likely to change or to perform unpredictably evacuate v. to move people away from an area because of possible danger surveillance n. to observe for security or military reasons thrust n. force that pushes forward or upward stage n. a section of a rocket defect n. a problem or fault that something has provocation n. an act meant to cause anger, outrage or distraction make up for v. (phrasal) to do something in an effort to ease the effect of something else sanctions n. (pl.) punishments placed on a country to cause it to obey international law Sweden is getting close to becoming the first smoke-free country in the European Union (EU). The country of 10.5 million people has had the lowest percentage of smokers in the EU for many years. A country is smoke-free if less than five percent of the population smokes daily. Only 6.4 percent of Swedes over the age of 15 were daily smokers in 2019. That was the lowest percentage in the EU. The Eurostat statistics agency says that across the 27 countries of the EU, the average was 18.5 percent. Data from the Public Health Agency of Sweden show that the smoking rate has continued to fall, reaching 5.6 percent last year. We like a healthy way to live, I think thats the reason, said Carina Astorsson, who lives in Stockholm. Smoking never interested her, she added, because I dont like the smell; I want to take care of my body. Sweden says its anti-smoking actions improve health in several ways, including a lower rate of lung cancer. Ulrika Arehed is secretary-general of the Swedish Cancer Society. She said Sweden was early to limit smoking in public places such as school playgrounds. Later, the country added smoking bans for outdoor restaurants and bus stations. The country also increased taxes on cigarettes and changed rules on how they can be sold. However, other forms of tobacco remain popular in Sweden. Snus is a wet tobacco powder placed in the mouth next to the teeth. Snus makers say their products help reduce cigarette smoking. But health officials say snus is another product that makes people addicted to nicotine, the main drug in tobacco. It is true that smoking is more harmful than most things you can do, including snus. Butthere are many health risks even with snus, said Arehed. Snus is such a popular part of Swedish culture that the country demanded an exemption to the EUs ban on smokeless tobacco when it joined the EU in 1995. Patrik Hildingsson is a spokesman for Swedish Match, Swedens top snus maker. He said officials should urge the tobacco industry to develop less harmful choices to smoking such as snus and e-cigarettes. If snus and similar products are included, the World Health Organization (WHO) notes that more than 20 percent of adults in Sweden use tobacco. This brings Sweden close to the world average. Switching from one harmful product to another is not a solution, the WHO said in an email to The Associated Press. Tove Marina Sohlberg is a researcher at Stockholm Universitys Department of Public Health Sciences. She said Swedens anti-smoking rules have pushed smokers away from public spaces. We are sending signals to the smokers that this is not accepted by society, she said. The WHO marked World No Tobacco Day on Wednesday. Im Ashley Thompson. Karl Ritter and Charlene Pele wrote this story for The Associated Press. Andrew Smith adapted it for VOA Learning English. ___________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story exemption n. freedom from being required to do something that others are required to do switch v. to change from one thing to another ___________________________________________________________________ We want to hear from you. We have a new comment system. Here is how it works: Write your comment in the box. Under the box, you can see four images for social media accounts. They are for Disqus, Facebook, Twitter and Google. Click on one image and a box appears. Enter the login for your social media account. Or you may create one on the Disqus system. It is the blue circle with D on it. It is free. Each time you return to comment on the Learning English site, you can use your account and see your comments and replies to them. Our comment policy is here. American colleges and universities are expecting an important decision from the U.S. Supreme Court involving a policy called affirmative action. The decision will come by the end of June. Affirmative action generally describes the idea that it is good for society to favor people who come from groups thought to be disadvantaged or discriminated against. Colleges and employers often think about affirmative action issues when making decisions. College and university officials started considering race a lot in the 1960s and 1970s. They wanted the racial and ethnic backgrounds of students at the schools where they worked to match those of Americas high school students. Last year, the nations highest court agreed to hear the appeal by a group called Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA) against Harvard University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The group accused the universities of discriminating against applicants based on race in violation of federal law or the U.S. Constitution. Legal experts believe the Supreme Court will say colleges and universities can no longer consider race when choosing students. Past experience The Supreme Court first ruled in 1978 that race could be considered in college admission. But in the same case, it banned setting aside a percentage or number of students for admission based on race alone. In 2003, the court again permitted race to be considered to create a diverse educational environment. In 1998, voters in California approved a measure barring public colleges and universities from considering race in admitting students. In 2020, a University of California, Berkeley doctoral student released a paper that found a drop in the number of Black, Hispanic, and Native American students who were accepted to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and Berkeley. A UCLA law professor disputed those findings. However, Californians again voted to approve the ban in 2020. Value of diversity Some American universities believe an important part of the educational experience includes meeting and going to class with a diverse group of people. So those who work on college admissions are thinking of ways to keep their student body diverse without asking students skin color or family backgrounds. Seth Allen is the head of admissions at Pomona College in California. He said, We cannot afford as a nation to (go back) on our goals to create an educated and equitable society. He said universities need to work together to be sure they are not furthering the enrollment gap among different groups of students. Schools are thinking of ways to advertise themselves to minority groups. They have made applications less costly for families who do not have much money. And they have promised to make stronger connections with high schools and community colleges that have mostly minority students. At Rice University, in Houston, Texas, school leaders want to think more about the writing examples that students send in with their application. They believe paying more attention to the written answers will help them choose a diverse group of students. The president at Skidmore College in New York state said the school will make good connections with high school counselors. Those counselors will then advise students to apply. Universities are already making it easier for students to apply. Many schools will consider students who do not send scores from tests such as the SAT or ACT. They are also trying to increase financial awards for students who might not usually consider a costly university. The school leaders who talked with the Reuters news agency said they expect the Supreme Courts decision to prompt appeals and new legal cases. Danielle Holley is a legal expert who is currently the head of the law school at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Later this year, she will start as the president of Mount Holyoke University in Massachusetts. Holley said the courts decision will start a whole new generation of lawsuits. Writing workshops Yvonne Berumen is vice president of admissions at Pitzer College in California. She said her group may invite students who do not normally think of Pitzer to an essay workshop, with the hopes of getting them to apply. Kent Devereaux is president of Goucher College in Maryland. He said organizations in low-income communities who identify students who could do well in college are going to be more important than before. Were seeing each year a bigger percentage of our students come from thoseorganizations, Devereaux said. Even military schools, such as the U.S. Air Force Academy, are getting ready for the Supreme Courts decision. Colonel Arthur Primas, Jr. is the academys admissions director. Primas said the plan is to visit schools in parts of the U.S. with a lot of minority students and ask them to apply. Students need to ask their local member of congress for a nomination if they want to go to the Air Force Academy. Primas said the academy has a long tradition of actively recruiting diverse candidatesbut were going to have to be really expansive. Im Dan Friedell. And I'm Caty Weaver. Dan Friedell adapted this story for Learning English based on a report by Reuters. Quiz - US Colleges Plan for Courts Decision on Affirmative Action Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz ___________________________________________________________________ Words in This Story disadvantaged adj. lacking money or education necessary to have a certain position in society diverse adj. made up of people different from each other afford v. to be able to pay for something equitable adj. dealing with someone equally with other people enrollment n. the process of being admitted to a school gap n. something that appears to be a mismatch in the numbers, percentages or rates related to one group compared to another group counselor n. a person who gives advice about educational issues encourage v. to cause people to want to do something prompt v. to cause to happen recruit v. to persuade people to join a group, especially the military or business organizations expansive adj. to do something widely; to cover or include many things __________________________________________________________________ We want to hear from you. Do you think the Supreme Court will change the way American colleges and universities look? Here is how our comment system works: Write your comment in the box. Under the box, you can see four images for social media accounts. They are for Disqus, Facebook, Twitter and Google. Click on one image and a box appears. Enter the login for your social media account. Or you may create one on the Disqus system. It is the blue circle with D on it. It is free. Each time you return to comment on the Learning English site, you can use your account and see your comments and replies to them. Our comment policy is here. OSWIECIM, Poland In a modern conservation laboratory on the grounds of the former Auschwitz camp, a man wearing blue rubber gloves uses a scalpel to scrape away rust from the eyelets of small brown shoes worn by children before they were murdered in gas chambers. Colleagues at the other end of a long work table rub away dust and grime, using soft cloths and careful circular motions on the leather of the fragile objects. The shoes are then scanned and photographed in a neighboring room and catalogued in a database. The work is part of a two-year effort launched last month to preserve 8,000 childrens shoes at the former concentration and extermination camp where German forces murdered 1.1 million people during World War II. Most of the victims were Jews killed in dictator Adolf Hitler's attempt to exterminate the Jews of Europe. The site was located during the war in a part of Poland occupied by German forces and annexed to the German Reich. Today it is a memorial and museum managed by the Polish state, to whom the solemn responsibility has fallen to preserve the evidence of the site, where Poles were also among the victims. The Germans destroyed evidence of their atrocities at Treblinka and other camps, but they failed to do so entirely at the enormous site of Auschwitz as they fled the approaching Soviet forces in chaos toward the war's end. Eight decades later, some evidence is fading away under the pressures of time and mass tourism. Hair sheered from victims to make cloth is considered a sacred human remain that cannot be photographed and is not subjected to conservation efforts. It is turning to dust. But more than 100,000 shoes of victims remain, some 80,000 of them in huge heaps on display in a room where visitors file by daily. Many are warped, their original colors fading, shoe laces disintegrated, yet they endure as testaments of lives brutally cut short. The tiny shoes and slippers are especially heartrending. Children's shoes are the most moving object for me because there is no greater tragedy than the tragedy of children, said Mirosaw Maciaszczyk, a conservation specialist from the museums conservation laboratories. A shoe is an object closely related to a person, to a child. It is a trace, sometimes it's the only trace left of the child. Maciaszczyk said that he and the other conservation workers never lose sight of the human tragedy behind the shoes, even as they focus on the technical aspects of their conservation work. Sometimes they are overcome by emotion and need breaks. Volunteers working with adult shoes in the past have asked for new assignments. Elzbieta Cajzer, head of the Collections, said conservation work always turns up some individual details of those killed at the camp suitcases, in particular, can offer up clues because they bear names and addresses. She expects that the work on children's shoes will also reveal some new personal details. They also open a window into a bygone era when shoes were a valuable good passed from child to child. Some have traces of mended soles and other repairs. The museum is able to conserve about 100 shoes a week, and has processed 400 since the project began last month. The aim is not to restore them to their original state but to render them as close to how they were found at war's end as possible. Cajzer described the shoes as powerful testimony also because the huge heaps of shoes that remain give some idea of the enormous scale of the crimes, even though what is left is only a fraction of what was. Before the SS men sent people into the gas chambers, they ordered them to undress and told them they were going into showers to be disinfected. We are able to imagine how many people came here, hoping that they would be able to put those shoes back on after a shower. They thought they would take their shoes back and keep using them. But they never returned to their owners," Cajzer said. In most cases, the shoes and other possessions were collected and the material used to help the Third Reich in its war effort. The 110,000 shoes in the museum's collection while massive most likely came from only the last transports to the camp, Cajzer said. The project's cost of $492,000 is funded by the Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation, to which Germany has been a key donor, as well as the International March of the Living, a Holocaust education program. Both Cajzer and Maciaszczyk said that it is impossible to save the shoes forever, but the goal is to preserve them for more years to come. Our conservation today slows down these processes (of decay), but for how long, it's hard to say," Maciaszczyk said. Photos: Preserving the silent witnesses to the Holocaust LEXINGTON The Lexington Area Christian Womens Connection invites the community to their June 20, 2023 Outreach meeting featuring Gayle Haas portrayal of Corrie ten Boom as their speaker. The program will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Kirks Restaurant, Lexington. This is their annual Mens night so everyone is welcome to reserve their spot. Reservations must be made by noon on June 19 by calling Sheri at 308-320-0952, cancellations are essential. The reserved spots are $10 which includes the meal and program. Aurora, Ill., resident Gayle Haas will portray Corrie ten Boom who, with her family, helped many Jews escape Nazi Germany during World War II. After about four years of helping the refugees and members of the Resistance, the house was raided. Corrie, along with her father, sisters and brother, were arrested. Her father died 10 days later in prison. Corrie, along with her sister, Betsie, were sent to three different prison camps, ending up in Ravensbruck concentration camp in Germany. In spite of the deplorable conditions, hard labor and cruel beatings, Corrie and Betsie delivered the message of Gods love to their fellow prisoners and captors. Malnourished and weakened by the harsh treatment, Betsie died in early December 1944. Shortly afterward, Corrie was released having completed her sentence. She later learned her release was due to a clerical error. All the women in the camp, her age (52 years) and older were executed shortly after her release. Corrie returned home to Haarlem, Holland were she set up rehabilitation centers for people of all races and creeds in effort to bring healing and comfort after the ravages of World War II. Embracing the words of her sister, Betsie, There is no pit so deep that Gods love is not deeper still, Corrie traveled to over 60 countries and shared a message of hope, forgiveness and love. The nation of Israel honored Corrie ten Boom naming her Righteous Among the Nations. She was also recognized for her work in the Netherlands and on her 70th birthday she was knighted by Queen Juliana of the Netherlands. She died on April 15, 1983, at age 91. A museum in Haarlem is dedicated to her and her family. Corrie told the story of her family during World War II in the 1971 book, The Hiding Place, which was later made into a movie, starring Julie Harris as Betsie and Jeannette Clift as Corrie. The book and DVD can be found or ordered at most libraries. Through Haas dramatic monologue, she will share some of ten Booms experiences growing up in Haarlem, Holland and her familys commitment of sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed. For more information call Marcia Hotlz at 308-320-1483. For child care call JoAnn at 308-325-1835. For transportation call Jeannie at 308-325-6412. COLUMBIA, S.C. A South Carolina gas station owner accused of chasing a 14-year-old boy from his store and fatally shooting him in the back made his first court appearance Tuesday on a murder charge in the death. Rick Chow thought the boy shoplifted four bottles of water Sunday night from his Xpress Mart Shell station in Columbia, authorities said. However, Cyrus Carmack-Belton put the bottles back in the cooler and was off the store's property and running away when he was killed, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said. A gun was found near the teen's body and Chow's son, who also was involved in the chase, told his father that Carmack-Belton was armed after the youth fell as he ran, according to the sheriff. Lott said there was no evidence the boy ever pointed the weapon at Chow or his son. Chow, who had a concealed weapons permit, was charged after an autopsy showed the middle school student was shot in the back and deputies spoke to witnesses and reviewed surveillance and other video, Lott said. Self-defense law in South Carolina requires the shooter doesn't instigate the incident, believes he is in imminent danger and has no way to avoid that danger. "You don't shoot somebody in the back that is not a threat to you," the sheriff said. Chow, 58, is being held in the Richland County jail. Neither he nor his lawyer talked about the shooting during the initial court appearance or in response to messages from The Associated Press. A bond hearing will be held later. Richland County Coroner Nadia Rutherford said there was no sign that Carmack-Belton was fighting with Chow before he ran out of the store and added there was no injury to his body other than an abrasion from falling and the gunshot wound. Both the sheriff and coroner asked for calm from the community. Social media posts incorrectly said the teen was kneeling or had his hands up when he was shot. Jail and coroner records have not listed the races of the shooter or the teen. Rutherford told a crowd at the gas station Monday that the teen was shot while he was running and the bullet went through his back and into his heart. She told the crowd, which was yelling calls for justice, to listen to the facts. "I was at the autopsy I looked at his body inside and outside. He had one shot to the back, which is why Mr. Chow is being charged with murder," the coroner told the crowd. Deputies were called to Chow's store numerous times in the last several years for shoplifting complaints and sometimes they turned into shoving or scuffling, but Lott said his officers determined Chow was defending himself and he was never charged. Sunday's shooting was not justified, the sheriff said. "Even if he had shoplifted four bottles of water, which he had taken out of the cooler and then put back even if he had done that, that's not something you should shoot anybody over, much less a 14-year-old," Lott said. After Monday's peaceful protest, Chow's store was broken into after dark with windows shattered and merchandise pulled off shelves and strewn across the floor, Lott said. When deputies arrived, a large group was inside stealing items, the sheriff said, adding he plans to charge those involved. "What does stealing a case of beer have to do with a 14-year-old being shot?" Lott said, calling the theft looting. Deputies are now watching over the property, the sheriff said. The entire gas station was behind yellow crime scene tape Tuesday morning. Dozens of crushed water bottles littered the parking lot. Graffiti, most of it "Cyrus" or "14" covered the walls. A sign taped to the door read "Water or Life? Which means more?" Another read "Close it down!" Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. Prospects for a renewed high-level military dialogue between China and the U.S. remain dim, with Beijing saying their defense chiefs will not hold a bilateral meeting while both are attending a weekend security conference in Singapore. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning yesterday blamed the U.S., saying Washington should earnestly respect Chinas sovereignty and security interests and concerns, immediately correct the wrongdoing, show sincerity, and create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for dialogue and communication between the two militaries. Mao gave no details, but tensions between the sides have spiked over Washingtons military support and sales of defensive weapons to self-governing Taiwan, Chinas assertions of sovereignty to the contested South China Sea and its flying of a suspected spy balloon over the U.S. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. Austin met privately with Lis predecessor, Wei Fenghe, at last years Shangri-La Dialogue, which appeared to do little to smooth relations between the sides. In his address to the forum, Wei accused the U.S. of seeking to contain Chinas development and threatening to assert its claim to Taiwan by military force. Chinese leader Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden met on the sidelines of the Group of 20 meeting of large economies in November in Indonesia, but contacts have proceeded only sporadically since then, with only side meetings on neutral territory. Secretary of State Antony Blinken canceled a visit to Beijing in February after the U.S. shot down a Chinese spy balloon that had crossed the United States. He later met with the Communist Partys senior foreign affairs adviser Wang Yi in Austria. China refused to take a phone call from Austin to discuss the balloon issue, the Pentagon said. Always beset by mistrust and accusations, communications on the military level have yet to show signs of improvement. Beijing also was angered by Taiwanese leader Tsai Ing-wens April stopover in the U.S. that included an encounter with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Chinas Peoples Liberation Army holds military exercises and sends fighter jets, drones and ships near the island to advertise its threat to attack and wear down Taiwans defenses. China also protests movements of U.S. Navy ships and aircraft through the Taiwan Strait and close to Chinese-held islands in the South China Sea, dispatching its own ships and planes and raising the possibility of confrontations or collisions. MDT/AP Beijing is calling on protesters to turn themselves in after a crowd clashed with police over plans to demolish a mosque in the countrys southwest as the government seems to tighten control over religion and society. Protesters threw water bottles at officers with helmets and shields outside the blue-domed Najiaying Mosque in Yuxi, a city in Yunnan province, according to videos on social media. One punched a police officers helmet but little other violence was shown. The Associated Press confirmed the location of the protest. Videos showing the protests were removed from Chinese social media. Police called on criminal suspects to turn themselves in following Saturdays incident and said those who do might receive lighter punishment. A police statement vowed zero tolerance toward criminal activities that impede social management. People who answered the phone yesterday at the police headquarters referred questions to the local government propaganda office. An employee who answered the phone there said the office had no information. A court in 2020 ordered the Najiaying Mosque demolished after ruling it was built without official permission, according to a document on the court website. The protesters were Hui, whose ancestors were members of Chinas majority Han ethnic group and adopted Islam, according to the videos. A man in a ripped T-shirt was shown wearing handcuffs but it was unclear whether he was in police custody. According to AP, a caption said some 30 people were detained but the public dragged some away from police. Two female spectators in Yuxi wore Muslim headscarves. Protesters and other spectators were men in T-shirts and trousers or shorts, the AP has reported. MDT/AP Residences for non-local experts for the future Cotai hospital are still subject to discussion by the Urban Planning Committee (CPU), Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture Elsie Ao Ieong said yesterday in defense of the project. The official was asked to discuss the matter on the sidelines of a Cultural Development Advisory Committee meeting. The project was unearthed and reported by Chinese newspaper Cheng Pou on May 9. Before that, no disclosure was made by the government. Lawmaker Ron Lam also criticized the governments manner of handling the issue during one of his pre-agenda speeches at the parliament. He questioned if public funds are at the governments disposal without even being discussed by society. To ease debates, the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Elsie Ao Ieong, emphasized that the project has not yet been approved, because its plan still needs to be discussed at the CPU. Legally, the CPU has no right to veto plans submitted by the government. Previously, the plan for a new wing of a criminal court building, despite generating widespread public objection, has been approved by the CPU. Ao Ieong disclosed that according to government plans, there will be 230 apartments. The current land plot has the capacity for 340 apartments. Nonetheless, she said the government, as of yesterday, did not have an exact figure on the number of non-local medical specialists needed by the future hospital. However, the first phase of the hospitals operation will see about 50 people being sent in from outside of Macau. Despite hoping to hire as many managerial staff members in Macau as possible to fill about 500 positions, Ao Ieong said the odds of hiring medical specialists in Macau are small. She assured that the income generated by the future hospital will go towards the governments accounts rather than the operators. She further disclosed that during negotiations with the Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), the Secretary recalled that one of the many core topics was where medical experts from Beijing should stay during their services in Macau. There was a process, Ao Ieong said. Her reason for providing such a defense was that when the Cotai hospital was planned, there was no indication that it would be managed by the PUMCH, and therefore the government had no idea about the need to import such a large cohort of medical staff from outside the city. There was no such plan, she said. As time went by, the Secretary said, and as we realized that we have nice facilities, we started to contemplate whether we needed additional medical staff to help cure diseases of people in Macau, so that they will not need to travel outside for cures for severe illnesses, such as cancer. Later, she explained that the government realized that while there were good facilities and experienced medical staff, they have nowhere to stay. She admitted that the Cotai hospital has a dormitory for medical staff, but it was built for emergency service medical staff, which is on stand-by during severe meteorological scenarios. The dormitory also does not have enough rooms, according to the Secretary. Renting apartments privately was not an appropriate option, she said, for the government has no means to maintain stable and affordable rental levels. Meanwhile, on her trip to Portugal, the Secretarys delegation focused on healthcare and medicine as well as education and culture, and met with officials overseeing these areas. Exchanges were also conducted with entities, schools and universities. Medical collaboration deals, such as recruiting doctors from Portugal, were also discussed with the Portuguese Minister of Health. The Minister welcomed the suggestion and we will now work to identify retirement plans for doctors from Portugal, Ao Ieong disclosed. We have also confirmed deals to send local doctors for training in Portugal. The official further disclosed that discussions on attracting Portuguese pharmaceutical companies to Macau were also held. In the area of culture, Ao Ieong said that research collaborations will commence on archival documents. The Portuguese Archive has certain documents written in Chinese, and we will consider the possibility of sending staff from our Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) to work on the documents together, she said. It will also be beneficial to the professional development of our staff at the IC. On education, the Ao Ieong said that discussions were held with regard to Macau secondary school students studying medicine in English at the Catholic University of Portugal. Recruitment of native Portuguese language teachers was also discussed but not much progress was seen, the official said. On the other hand, the Secretary also wanted to hire Portuguese Special Education Needs (SEN) teachers. Yesterdays meeting discussed subsidies for films made in or featuring elements of Macau. Each project has a ceiling of MOP2 million for the former and MOP250,000 for the latter. The total budgets respectively will be MOP12 million and MOP2.5 million. A key requirement is that the sponsored films should not contain erotic elements or elements that violate national security of the Peoples Republic of China. Public screening of the productions is also a requirement. The former president and honorary life president of the animal rights protection group Anima Macau, Albano Martins, is seeking support to create an old ambition of his an international animal shelter in Portugal. The International Center for the Collection and Rehoming of Animals at Risk (CIAR based on the Portuguese acronym) a tentative name provided to the Times by Martins is to be managed by a new organization called ANIMA (Portugal). Martins stated he has been in contact with the current president of ANIMA Macau seeking authorization to use this name. Martins noted that despite the similarity in name, the two organizations are independent and have no official ties. Further, Anima Macau will not share any costs or responsibilities under the project, to be hosted in Portugals Alentejo region. Martins said the first steps to establish the center are still underway, and the project is far from completion. For the time being, Martins is focusing his efforts on establishing the management organization as well as obtaining the necessary funds to set up the center. According to Martins, the final project could occupy an area of between 10 to 50 hectares another reason behind the choice of the Alentejo region, where Martins already owns some land that he will donate for the project. He explained that contrary to the work of Anima in Macau, which focuses mostly on pets, the CIAR has a much broader spectrum of operation. The CIARs intended operation can include both domestic and wild animals. The idea is that the center can serve as a temporary shelter in case of different needs where the animals can be cared for before being relocated or placed back in the natural environment or protected habitats. Such work would be done in cooperation with worldwide animal protection organizations, with which CIAR hopes to establish cooperative relationships. This project has occupied Martins time since he left Macau around 18 months ago after more than 40 years of residing and working in the city, to return to Portugal. He said this is his last project and one that he intends to work on for the rest of his life. Further to this, he anticipates the project needs to be carefully considered, planned, organized, led, and controlled so that we dont just have an animals warehouse as we unfortunately have in many places and that is neither good for the animals nor for the animal rights protection cause. Photo: Kelowna Rockets Kanjyu Gojsic The Kelowna Rockets have a commitment from one of their top selections from this year's prospects draft. Fifteen-year-old forward Kanjyu Gojsic has officially signed a standard WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. Gojsic, who attended St. George's school in Vancouver last season, was taken by the Rockets with their first of two selections in the third round, 48th overall. In 26 games at St. George's last season, the 5'11", 174 pound Gojsic had 19 goals and 46 points. "I'm incredibly honoured to sign with such a storied organization like the Rockets," said Gojsic. "I can't wait to get started as soon as I can and help contribute to their success." Gojsic won't be eligible to play full-time for the Rockets until the 2024-25 season. Andrew Cristall and this year's second round pick Eli Barrett also attended St. George's. The 14th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum (IIICF) will see its exhibition area 1.5 times greater than that of the previous edition and over 90% of it is taken up by specifically customized booths. To be held from June 1 to June 2, at The Venetian Macao Cotai Expo, the forum is expected to draw more than 3,000 guests this year, more than doubling the number of attendees from the previous year. The forum will be held fully offline under the theme of Green Leadership, Digital Intelligence, Financial Empowerment, Win-Win Co-operation. Activities such as brand promotion, enterprise roadshows and business meetings will be held throughout the forum to create a new dimension for win-win cooperation in infrastructure construction, the organizers disclosed at a press conference yesterday. During the event, two thematic forums and 10 parallel forums will be set up, fully leveraging the professional platform to deepen international exchanges and networking among the political, business and academic elites from the infrastructure sector, and jointly promoting sustainable development of the international infrastructure construction. Moreover, apart from the continued participation of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, 10 local enterprises and organizations will also be exhibiting for the first time, which is expected to further help Macau enterprises to keep abreast of the new international trends and seize new opportunities in infrastructure construction. Staff Reporter JW Marriott Hotel Macau and The Ritz-Carlton, Macau have been awarded the Gold Award in the 2022 Macao Green Hotel Award for their commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. Organized by the SAR Government, the Macao Green Hotel Award is an annual initiative that promotes sustainable tourism and recognizes hotels that have made significant efforts to reduce their environmental impact. The award is based on a comprehensive assessment of a hotels environmental policies, practices, and performance. Rauf Malik, vice president of Operations at JW Marriott Hotel Macau and The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, said, We pledge to continuously and consistently implement green practices in our everyday operation and engage in more sustainable initiatives with the support of Serve 360. Marriott International, the parent company of JW Marriott Hotel Macau and The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, has a long-standing commitment to sustainability and social impact. The companys Serve 360 program outlines its goals and initiatives in areas such as environmental sustainability, human rights, and community engagement. Fugitive Malaysian financier Jho Low, wanted for his key role in the multibillion-dollar 1MDB scandal, is believed to be hiding in Macau, Malaysias anti-corruption watchdog confirmed to Al Jazeera. According to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) it believes the individuals wanted for the 1MDB case, especially Jho Low, are hiding in Macau. This was also confirmed by several individuals who have seen Jho Low in Macau, MACC added. The confirmation came weeks after the arrest of a relatively unknown 1MDB suspect, Kee Kok Thiam. According to the MACC, its government did not receive any notification from Macau regarding Kees repatriation, but noted, Kee was being deported from Macau based on intelligence networking. In early May, Kee was arrested upon touching down at Kuala Lumpur International Airport after being deported from Macau for allegedly overstaying his visa. As cited in a report issued by Al Jazeera, Macau authorities declined to comment on specific cases, but said they wanted to emphasize that cases involving foreigners are always handled in accordance with the law and procedures, as well as relevant international practices. Meanwhile, MACC said that Kee confirmed he met Jho Low and a number of other 1MDB fugitives including Eric Tan Kim Loong, Casey Tang Keng Chee, Geh Choh Heng and Nik Faisal in Macau and that Jho Low instructed him not to return to Malaysia as a witness in the 1MDB case, as cited in the report. The Times contacted the local immigration department to confirm Jho Lows presence in Macau. No reply was given by press time. Last month, Malaysias government was reportedly in talks with China seeking the extradition of fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho. In 2020, the Office of the Secretary for Security refuted the claims of Malaysian authorities that the fugitive businessman was in the SAR. The renewed claims come as Malaysia continues to seek the financer of the states 1MDB financial scandal, who has eluded law enforcement since at least 2016. It was also in 2020 when the Malaysian court sentenced former Prime Minister Najib Razak to serve 12 years after finding him guilty in the first of several corruption trials linked to the multibillion-dollar looting of the 1MDB state investment fund that brought down his government in 2018. LV Chinas foreign minister met Tesla Ltd. CEO Elon Musk yesterday and said strained U.S.-Chinese relations require mutual respect, while delivering a message of reassurance that foreign companies are welcome. U.S.-Chinese relations are especially tense after Washington shot down a Chinese balloon believed to be gathering intelligence and warned Beijing against supplying arms to Russia for its war against Ukraine. The Wall Street Journal reported China has rejected a request for its defense minister to meet the U.S. defense secretary when both are in Singapore this weekend. We need to keep the steering wheel in the right direction of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, Qin Gang told Musk, according to a ministry statement. The two sides should avoid dangerous driving, Qin said. He gave no details of steps to improve relations. Musks visit comes at a time when the ruling Communist Party is trying to revive investor interest in Chinas slowing economy. Foreign companies are uneasy following raids on consulting firms and given the strained Chinese relations with Washington. Qin said China will unswervingly promote high-level opening up and create a market-oriented, law-based and internationalized business environment, according to the statement. Chinas development is an opportunity for the world. Chinas electric vehicle market has broad prospects for development, the ministry quoted Qin as saying. China accounts for half of global electric vehicle sales and is the site of Teslas first factory outside the United States. Tesla opened the first wholly foreign-owned auto factory in China in 2019 after Beijing eased ownership restrictions to increase competition and speed up industry development. The Chinese statement cited Musk as saying Tesla was willing to expand its business in China and opposes decoupling, a reference to fears the world may split into multiple markets with incompatible products. Tesla didnt respond to requests by email for information about Musks visit to China. JOE McDONALD, BEIJING, MDT/AP The Judiciary Police (PJ) has detained one man and a woman suspected of being part of a larger group that lured at least 30 local residents into a fraudulent investment scheme, the PJ announced yesterday in a special press conference. The cumulative losses resulting from the fraudulent scheme have been calculated at about HKD 48.8 million. The case dates from 2017, when the group allegedly started to operate, to March 2021. According to the PJ, 30 Macau residents aged between 27 and 68 years old, have submitted similar reports complaining of the actions of this group. Together they are said to have lost about HKD48.8 million in a scheme that aimed to invest in a company alleged to be listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The victims gave evidence that they had been approached by the shareholders of an investment company that was promoting the investment via the acquisition of stocks of the company that was apparently listed in the neighboring regions. According to these people, such an investment would yield very high returns as, after the listing, the value of the stocks would be much higher than the acquisition price. The victims invested sums ranging between HKD40,000 and HKD29 million. In December 2021, the Monetary Authority of Macao released a statement on the illegal operations of this investment company. The company was not recognized as a legal entity authorized to perform such investments. That is when the victims understood that they had been involved in a fraudulent investment scheme and had lost their money. They subsequently reported the case to the PJ. After an investigation, the police detained the two suspects, who are aged 48 and 58 years old respectively and are the shareholders of the investment company. The police said their company was involved in establishing an offshore company with the purpose of creating a fraudulent investment scheme and defrauding the victims. The police also said they believed at least two other people were involved in the case but that they remain at large. The PJ will continue to investigate this case. The Ministry of the Interior (MOI) has proposed many amendments targeted at allowing foreign nationals to extend their stay in Taiwan after graduation or to care for family members who have residency in the island and who have been hospitalized with serious illness. To encourage foreign talent to work in Taiwan, those who study in the island can extend their residency for a year after graduation and another year if needed, according to the amendments. The proposed rule change would also apply if either parent is a resident of Hong Kong or Macau who has been granted residency in Taiwan. Related As Britains prime minister, Boris Johnson established an independent inquiry into his governments handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now the inquiry wants to see, in full, what Johnson wrote to other U.K. officials as the outbreak raged but the government is fighting a demand to hand over the material. Inquiry chairwoman Heather Hallett, a retired judge, has asked the Conservative government, now led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, to produce full copies of Johnsons WhatsApp messages and notebooks, after initially being given redacted versions. Government officials said they only cut out material that was unambiguously irrelevant to the investigation, but Hallett wants to be the judge of that. She said the entire contents of the specified documents are of potential relevance to the lines of investigation being pursued by the inquiry. Hallett who has the power to summon evidence and question witnesses under oath set a deadline of 4 p.m. (1500 GMT) Tuesday for the government to hand over the documents, covering a two-year period from early 2020. But hours before the deadline, the government asked for more time, claiming it didnt have Johnsons WhatsApp messages or notebooks. Hallett denied a request to move the deadline to Monday, but agreed to extend it by 48 hours, until tomorrow. The inquiry said if the WhatsApp messages and notebooks cant be produced, the government must provide witness statements from senior officials setting out what efforts have been made to find them. Sunak, who took office after Johnson left office in September to be succeeded, for a few weeks, by Liz Truss said the government had already handed over tens of thousands of documents to the inquiry and was considering next steps carefully. The government is worried about the precedent that disclosing Johnsons full, unredacted conversations might set. Johnsons office said the former leader had no objection to disclosing material to the inquiry, but that decisions on redactions were for the Cabinet office, a government department, to make. Bob Kerslake, a former head of the civil service, said that the government was likely resisting disclosure to save embarrassment of ministers an approach he called misguided. The U.K. has recorded more than 200,000 deaths among people with COVID-19, one of the highest tolls in Europe, and the decisions of Johnsons government have been endlessly debated. Johnson agreed in late 2021 to hold an inquiry after pressure from bereaved families. Halletts inquiry is due to investigate the U.K.s preparedness for a pandemic, how the government responded, and whether the level of loss was inevitable or whether things could have been done better. Public hearings are scheduled to start in June, and Johnson is among the senior officials due to give evidence. The inquiry has already landed Johnson in hot water. He was one of dozens of people fined last year for breaking his own governments pandemic lockdown rules in the so-called partygate scandal. Earlier this month, government-appointed lawyers helping Johnson prepare his submissions and testimony came across evidence of more potential breaches of COVID-19 restrictions. The new evidence relates to alleged visits to Chequers, the prime ministers official country retreat, as well as potential breaches in the leaders Downing Street residence. Civil servants reported the information to police, who say they are assessing the new evidence. Johnson denies wrongdoing. JILL LAWLESS, LONDON, MDT/AP During a recent visit in Europe, the rector of the University of Macau (UM), Yonghua Song, signed many strategic cooperation agreements with Portuguese universities such as University of Coimbra and University of Porto to strengthen cooperation exchanges in research and education sectors. While cooperation between UM and University of Coimbra will focus on AI, robotics, neuroscience, law, business and international relations, the agreement with University of Porto will highlight medicine, law, talent development and faculty exchanges as priorities. Related Photo: Brendan Kergin/V.I.A. Vancouver police say a woman was discovered "badly assaulted" in the Downtown Eastside over the weekend. On Sunday, May 28 around 11:15 a.m., Vancouver Police Department (VPD) officers were patrolling in the DTES when they were informed about an unconscious woman near Hastings and Main, Const. Tania Visintin told V.I.A. Police say witnesses told the officers that the woman "had been badly assaulted." She was taken to hospital following the assault and remains in critical condition. The incident is currently under investigation. With the correct spelling of bahuvrihi and burpee and the correct definition of meridian, Wisconsins spelling bee champion Aiden Wijeyakulasuriya is on to the Scripps National Spelling Bee quarterfinals. Wijeyakulasuriya was among 121 of 231 spellers Tuesday who advanced through two rounds of spelling and a round of definitions during the preliminaries competition. Wijeyakulasuriya, 12, of Middleton, won the Badger State Spelling Bee in March and has been Madisons All-City Spelling Bee winner the past two years. The Wisconsin State Journal sponsors both spelling bees. This is Wijeyakulasuriyas second trip to the Scripps National Spelling Bee. He last competed as a third grader, when he placed 51st. The Blessed Sacrament School seventh grader told the State Journal earlier this month he hoped to place higher than the last time he competed. The Scripps National Spelling Bee runs through Thursday in National Harbor, Maryland, south of Washington, D.C. The champion will receive $50,000 and the Scripps Cup, the official trophy of the bee. On Wednesday and Thursday, semifinals and finals will air on the ION television network starting at 7 p.m. Central time. Emilie Heidemann picks her 5 favorite 2022 stories "The storm will abate, and the sun will rise again." That was a quote I read recently. It's was written by a renowned psychiatrist who actually practices locally. It's hard not to get caught in the throes of all the headlines and wonder what the world is coming to. Even for me an anxious and introverted pessimist-who-is-secretly-an-optimist with high hopes that, while the world may seem bleak at times, things will eventually get better. There are still pockets of joy even in the deepest pits of fire. I never envisioned that my journalism career would entail weathering an ongoing pandemic whose affects are likely to be felt for decades to come. For one story this year, I drove for miles as cars lined up outside a pharmacy waiting for a COVID-19 test amid a shortage caused by the omicron variant. Eventually, that shortage eased. And more is now known about the once mystery virus that had everyone fearing an apocalypse was imminent. Soon after, with a colleague and friend, we highlighted the problems plaguing Wisconsin's childcare industry as exacerbated by pandemic. Since then, various organizations have sought ways to better support parents and providers with more work to be done. Sometimes, it takes work to make things better. I covered the city of Madison's effort to better support businesses owned by people of color last spring. I recall one of my sources texting to tell me I had created "art" once the story published. Efforts continue. Additionally, I wrote about how a local uptick in unionization rates (that's continuing by the way) was reflective of a national trend, and how the Dane County employers were jumping on the bandwagon to support workers with children despite no federal guidelines for doing so. There are still no federal guidelines in December 2022, but the story did inspire a well-written column by the Wisconsin State Journal's editorial board. Solving some problems may have to start with new knowledge and awareness, just like storms always start with lightning, and then cracks of thunder. The clouds always pass with time. And the sun comes out again. That's my personal theme for 2022. Enjoy the below collection. TWIN FALLS One of the men charged with drug trafficking after an April traffic stop that netted methamphetamine and fentanyl worth an estimated $1 million was bound over Friday to district court. Judge Calvin Campbell, presiding over the preliminary hearing, said the prosecutor showed sufficient evidence for him to do so, but offered his opinion that the prosecution might need to uncover more to link the defendant to the crime if they want to secure a conviction should the case go to trial. This is a question a jury will have to decide, Campbell said. The question at hand was whether Elton Loza, 23, knew the large amount of drugs the fentanyl alone was said to be enough to potentially administer one million lethal doses was in the vehicle. Clearly he would have known what was in the vehicle and the mission of the vehicle, said Jill Sweesy of the Twin Falls County Prosecutors Office. Meanwhile, Defense Attorney Aaron Tribble said the prosecutions case amounted to a bunch of suspicions but no concrete evidence. Loza is charged with felony counts of drug trafficking and possession of a drug with intent to deliver after a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 93 near Twin Falls. Law enforcement officials searched the vehicle and found 20 bags that each held about 1 pound of methamphetamine, plus two 2.2-pound bricks of fentanyl, plus some smaller packages of meth. Two other men in the car, Hector Olvera and Wilson R. Fontes Mendvil, chose to waive their preliminary hearings and will be arraigned June 12 in district court. Deputy Braden Lowe first took the stand for the prosecution and described how he conducted a traffic stop at about 8 a.m. April 7 at milepost 45 on U.S. 93 when a BMW was recorded going 65 mph in a 60 mph zone. From there, he described several items seen in the vehicle that aroused suspicion, from rosary beads to a picture of Saint Jude the patron saint of lost causes that many drug traffickers are known to keep in their vehicles. The trio also gave conflicting accounts of where the trip started and their destination, according to his testimony. Three duffle bags were found in the truck and deputies pulled bag after bag of drugs from them. Mendvil said one of the duffle bags was his, and another bag contained mail with Olveras name on it, Lowe said. Lowe said he couldnt definitely say that the third duffle bag belonged to Loza but told Tribble that it made sense that it belonged to him three bags, three occupants, he explained. He also said there was evidence the three had been on a long trip. Blas Martinez of the Twin Falls Sheriffs Office, another testimony for the prosecution, recounted hearing a video chat April 7 between Loza and his sister. Loza had not yet made a court appearance but the charges the trio were facing had been made known to news media. Loza, speaking in Spanish, reportedly questioned his sister what charges had been filed against him, and upon his sisters answer, asked is that all? and scoffed at the reported $1 million street value that the news release said the drugs were valued at, Martinez said. Loza said that law officers exaggerated the value by at least twice so they could get their congratulations. Tribble countered during his cross-examination that Loza was near the vehicle when deputies were removing the drugs, and that he could make a statement about what he thought their value was without admitting he had any control over the drugs. Later, during closing arguments, Tribble urged Campell to have the charges dropped and said the prosecution could later refile charges if they found some real evidence. Loza is also facing probation violation charges in Ada County stemming from original charges of driving under the influence and possessing drug paraphernalia, court records show. Sweesy outlined the case against Loza in her closing arguments, saying the totality of the evidence makes it clear the Loza was involved with drug trafficking. The bust was the second large drug bust by the Twin Falls Sheriffs Office within two weeks of each other. Another large drug bust occurred March 26, also after a traffic stop on U.S. 93, when 11.7 pounds of fentanyl and 2.7 pounds of heroin were found hidden in a car, which had a temporary Arizona registration. IAFCC directs Idahoans to free clinics The Idaho Association of Free and Charitable Clinics is encouraging Idahoans who are losing Medicaid benefits through a process of mass re-evaluations known as Medicaid Unwinding to visit one of 13 free clinics across the state. In Idaho, 32,688 of 54,257 Medicaid recipients were recently disenrolled, according to the Department of Health and Welfare. We know that many of our Idaho friends and neighbors are experiencing medical hardships and cant get help because of insurance status, financial difficulties, or other system barriers, said Mindy Hong, IAFCC executive director, said in a news release. No matter what your situation is, our free clinics will warmly welcome you and provide you with quality services. Two of the 13 free clinics are in the Magic Valley: Good Samaritan Free Clinic, 113 S. Apple St. in Shoshone, and Wellness Tree Community Clinic, 173 Martin St. in Twin Falls. For a full list of clinics and more information, go online to www.idahoafcc.org. New Legacy Project to play Twin Falls concert The Southern Gospel vocal group New Legacy Project will perform a live concert on Saturday, June 17, at 6 p.m. at the Twin Falls Church of the Nazarene, 1231 Washington St. N. Admission is free to the non-denominational concert. The Nashville-based quartet, formerly known as the Blackwood Legacy, blends an edgy Southern Gospel sound with contemporary worship, according to a news release. The concert is part of New Legacy Projects Ill Stand ministry in support of U.S. military veterans and their families. For more information, call the church at 208-733-6610, or go online to www.NewLegacyProject.com. Also: Ron James, a member of the Twin Falls County Historic Preservation Commission and an adjunct instructor of East Asian history at Idaho State University, will speak on the history of Chinese miners who lived and mined in the Snake River Canyon on Thursday, June 15, at 6:30 p.m. at the Minidoka County Historical Society Museum in Rupert, 99 E. Baseline Rd. Times-News Register for more free articles. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy BEIJING, ChinaElon Musk and Chinas industry minister discussed ways to develop new energy vehicles Wednesday, a day after the Tesla CEO flew into Beijing and declared he wanted to expand his business in the worlds second-largest economy. The mercurial billionaire, one of the worlds richest men, is on his first trip to China in more than three years. On Wednesday he met Jin Zhuanglong in Beijing to discuss the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent connected vehicles, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said in a readout. It did not share further details. Tesla representatives did not respond to AFP requests for further information on Musks itinerary. Musk has extensive business interests in China and on Tuesday told foreign minister Qin Gang that his firm was willing to continue to expand its business in China, according to a foreign ministry readout. Chinese media reported Tesla welcomed its CEO to Beijing on Tuesday with a 16-course dinner that included seafood, New Zealand lamb, and traditional Beijing-style soybean paste noodles. China is the worlds biggest electric vehicle market and Tesla announced in April it would build a second massive factory in Shanghai, which would be its second plant in the city after Gigafactory, which broke ground in 2019. In his meeting with Qin on Tuesday, Musk also expressed his opposition to an economic decoupling between China and the United States, Beijing said. The interests of the United States and China are intertwined, like conjoined twins, who are inseparable from each other, Musk added. Musks extensive business ties to China have raised eyebrows in Washington, with President Joe Biden saying in November that the executives links to foreign countries were worthy of scrutiny. And he has caused controversy by suggesting the self-ruled island of Taiwan should become part of China a stance welcomed by Chinese officials but which deeply angered Taiwan. Critics point to the industrial ties linking Musk to China, which has increasingly fraught ties with Washington. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday that the country welcomed visits by international executives to better understand China and promote mutually beneficial cooperation. Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Photo: The Canadian Press A group of top artificial intelligence researchers and executives have warned that reducing the risk of extinction from AI should be treated as seriously as pandemic preparedness and preventing nuclear war. More than 350 industry leaders, academics, and engineers including Geoffrey Hinton, Yoshua Bengio, OpenAI chief executive officer Sam Altman and top executives of Google DeepMind have endorsed a 22-word statement released Tuesday to call attention to the most extreme risk posed by AI, the very technology many of them are ushering into the world. (Canadian musician Grimes, who has embraced AI to make music, is also a signatory.) Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, reads the statement in its entirety, which was co-ordinated by the Center for AI Safety, a U.S. non-profit organization. An accompanying explanation notes that it can be difficult to express concerns about the most severe risks posed by AI and that the statement is intended to start a discussion. Indeed, the notion that AI models will someday be powerful enough to outwit humans, run amok or otherwise wreak havoc on humanity can be a divisive one. Some experts believe the technology is still far too underdeveloped and that such scenarios are highly unlikely. Additionally, focusing on existential threats may distract from more immediate problems posed by AI, such as bias, job losses, the potential to spread misinformation and a lack of transparency into the data used to train computer models. But for others who have devoted their lives to advancing AI, a deep worry is setting in. Its ceased to be seen as a kind of science fiction future, Dr. Hinton told The Globe and Mail. And its becoming seen as a quite plausible kind of a future. The emeritus professor of computer science at the University of Toronto recently left his job at Google in order to more freely discuss his concerns about artificial intelligence, a field in which he has been one of the most influential figures. Since then, Dr. Hinton has given interviews to media around the world about how quickly AI models, particularly those that can generate text and images, have advanced in recent months, warning of the potential threats they pose as they become more powerful. There are no simple solutions that I can see, he said. With climate change, theres fairly simple solutions. Theyre unpalatable, like stop burning carbon, but they would work. With this, its not so obvious what would work. Its not even certain that there is anything that would work. There is, however, a robust and ongoing body of research into designing safe AI systems. Some of the signatories to the statement released Tuesday, including Mr. Altman, contend that the risks can be managed in order for society to reap the benefits of the technology, such as improved drug discovery and disease detection. I dont think it works to just say humanity should never build AI, he told The Globe at an event in Toronto this month. OpenAI recently proposed creating a global safety organization for artificial intelligence, similar to the International Atomic Energy Agency. The statement is not the first of its kind. In March, the Future of Life Institute put out an open letter calling for a pause on the development of some powerful AI models to give researchers, regulators and policymakers time to come up with adequate guardrails, arguing the technology poses profound risks to society and humanity. Some criticized that letter for missing the mark. The Distributed AI Research Institute (DAIR), a U.S. non-profit, published a response saying the hypothetical risks raised in the letter amounted to fearmongering and AI hype. Regulators should be more concerned with ensuring the transparency of AI models and limiting the concentration of power among a few tech giants, the DAIR researchers noted. (The organization was founded by Timnit Gebru, the former co-head of Googles ethical AI research team.) Emily Bender, a University of Washington linguistics professor who has written about the problems posed by AI language models for years, dismissed Tuesdays statement from the Center for AI Safety. We should be concerned by the real harms that [corporations] and the people who make them up are doing in the name of AI, not about Skynet, she wrote on Twitter, referring to the murderous AI system from the Terminator movie franchise. Prof. Bengio, the scientific director of the Mila AI institute in Quebec, who won the prestigious Turing Award in 2018 alongside Dr. Hinton for their work on neural networks, said he signed the statement to increase awareness about the catastrophic risks posed by more powerful AI models. It takes a lot of time for society to adapt to things like this, both in terms of legislation, people understanding the issues and the debates that are necessary in a democracy, said Prof. Bengio, who has been outspoken in recent months about his concerns. Even among AI experts, some soul-searching is under way. Speaking for myself, if youve been working in this field for decades, and youve been building an image of yourself that youre doing something good for humanity and then you see these issues, these concerns. How do you change your mind about that? Prof. Bengio said. Changing so much is something that takes time. The Philippines, through the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the European Union Agency for Criminal Justice (Eurojust) forged closer collaboration in fighting transnational crimes, especially online sexual abuse of children. In a statement released on Wednesday, the DOJ said the agreement was reached during a meeting between Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and Eurojust President Ladislav Hamran in The Hague, The Netherlands last May 24. This significant meeting with Eurojust paves the way for more exchanges of information and best practices on the institutional and policy level, as well as foster closer coordination among our agencies in terms of investigation and prosecution of specific transnational crimes, Remulla said. The DOJ noted that during the meeting, the two sides agreed to establish cooperative working arrangements between their respective agencies. Philippine Ambassador to The Netherlands J. Eduardo Malaya, who accompanied Remulla during the meeting, explained the visit was a valuable opportunity to explore cooperation against cross-border crimes, especially online sexual exploitation of children. Protecting children is a priority for both sides. We stand ready to work closely together, Malaya said. Remulla was also accompanied during the meeting by DOJ Undersecretary for International and Legal Cluster Raul Vasquez, Undersecretary for Law Enforcement Cluster Jesse Andres, Undersecretary for Immigration and Public Attorneys Office Jose Cadiz, Jr., NBI Director Medardo De Lemos, Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Hazel Decena-Valdez, NBI International Operations Division Supervising Agent Chief Filipinas Astrero, and NBI Anti-Human Trafficking Division Chief Marie Catherine Nolasco. The DOJ said that Eurojust facilitates coordination among national judicial authorities of EU-member States, as well as cooperates with third States in investigating and prosecuting transnational crimes. Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. At least nine overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were victims of a human trafficking syndicate were repatriated after being rescued from their employers in Thailand and Myanmar. Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Norman Tansingco said one groupfour men and two womenarrived on board a Philippine Airlines flight from Bangkok, Thailand. The new face of victims now are really professionals with good jobs here in the country but seek adventure abroad. Some of them are even traveling with their partners or claiming they will be visiting family, and have previous travels, Tansingco said. The other group of three OFWs arrived from Myanmar on board a Philippine airlines flight. The victims were composed of two males and one female, all in their 20s. Two of them left as registered OFWs, while one left as a tourist. All nine victims left the country late last year or earlier this year, the BI said. The BI chief said that apart from recruiting professionals in the country, the syndicates were also targeting Filipinos in the Middle East with expiring job contracts. These latest batch of victims show that traffickers are using the same modus to recruit young professionals to seemingly-good call center jobs abroad. Only to find out that it is a scam, he added. The victims were assisted by elements of the Inter-Agency Task Force Against Trafficking upon arrival. Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Geneva, Switzerland Swiss police said Tuesday that a secret operation using the profile of a convicted pedophile had allowed them to identify over 2,200 child sex offenders and users of child pornography worldwide. The revelations made over the course of several years through the operation, dubbed Ninja Turtle, enabled arrests in Switzerland and several other countries, police in the northern Swiss canton of Aargau said in a statement. The investigation dates back to 2012 when Swiss police were informed that a person living in Aargau and using the pseudonym Ninja Turtle was distributing child pornography using GigaTribe a platform for sharing material anonymously. Police tracked down the person hiding behind the pseudonym a 62-year-old German man who was convicted in 2015. But once he had been caught, investigators continued to use his profile to unmask other pedophiles and users of illegal child sex images. The multi-year covert operation on the internet was a success: 2,200 pedo-criminals were unmasked, the police statement said. Arrests had been made in a number of Swiss cantons, as well as in countries including Croatia, Brazil, France and Spain, the statement said. Some of those identified were not just users of child pornography, but also so-called hands-on perpetrators who themselves physically abused children. Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. United Nations, United States UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi on Tuesday urged Ukraine and Russia to adhere to concrete principles to prevent nuclear catastrophe at Ukraines Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. The safety of Europes largest nuclear power plant, located in Ukraines southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia, has been a concern since Russian forces seized it over a year ago during Moscows war on its neighbor. It has been subject to frequent shelling that caused several power outages vital to cooling the plants reactors. Ahead of Ukraines expected counteroffensive, fears have increased that a nuclear disaster could occur amid increased military activity. Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), briefed the UN Security Council in New York on his proposals to ensure the safety of the plant. The diplomat, who visited the plant in March, told ambassadors that there should be no attack of any kind from or against the plant. Grossi added that Zaporizhzhia should not be used as storage or a base for heavy weapons, such as rocket launchers, artillery systems and munitions, tanks or military personnel. He also said that all efforts should be made to ensure that off-site power remains available and secure at all times. And he added that all structures, systems and components essential to the safe and secure operation of the plant should be protected from attacks or acts of sabotage. I respectfully and solemnly ask both sides to observe these five principles, said Grossi, adding that the IAEA intends to start monitoring the principles on-site. These principles are to no ones detriment and to everyones benefit, he added. Zaporizhzhia used to supply around 20 percent of Ukraines electricity and continued to function in the early months of Russias offensive despite frequent shelling, before halting power production in September. None of its six Soviet-era reactors has since generated electricity, but the facility remains connected to the Ukrainian power grid for its own needs, notably to cool the reactors. Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. The prestige of being a journalist goes beyond the privilege of covering events or certain situations. Yes, its a cool job where your byline regularly appears on a publication or news online site, or your face gets TV exposure. However, the actual respect you receive is due to the role you play as an engaging storyteller of humanity and a firm protector of truth. This is true regardless of the beat youre on or the medium you embrace. Last Sunday (May 28) night, here in California, that sense of calling was hovering during the gala night to install the new officers of the Filipino American Press Club of California (FAPCCA), which celebrated its 11th anniversary as a club. The occasion was held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in the city of Whittier, Los Angeles County. FAPCCA Founder and President Emeritus Andy Edralin The event was a festive gathering of Filipino-born media practitioners in California, guests of honor from the Fil-Am society, and professionals from various fields who hold the journalism profession in high regard. Edgar Badajos, Consul General of the Philippine Consulate in Los Angeles, was given the floor to articulate the kind of atmosphere faced by active journalists amid the changed landscape and, more importantly, to fire up everyone to consistently employ the fundamentals of news. He shared, If people rely on news that is not accurate, that is not true, that is lacking in research, then that is dangerous to any society. If that happens, people will form their opinions, biases, and personal prejudices that may not be in the best interest of the country in general. On this note, the highly respected gentleman emphasized the role that journalists can and should play, even with what he calls civilian journalists proliferating digital avenues like social media. Consul general Edgar Badajos of Philippine Consulate Los Angeles, California He noted, Members of this industry can still play a very important and relevant role. You can exert influence over these people for guidance. You can help them follow certain standards. On cue, the 2023-2024 officers of FAPCCA were presented, led by its president Lissa Pacheco Chow, a woman described by Badajos as business savvy and very smart. Don Orozco and Jackie Dayoha were named 1st and 2nd Vice Presidents, respectively. The rest of the officers are as follows: Adrian Lecaros (secretary), Celia Abuel (assistant secretary), Lydia Soriano (treasurer), Sam Azurel (auditor), Tony Garcia (public relations officer), and Katie Ortiz (media relations officer). The board of directors is composed of eight veterans in the field, namely, Abby Amores, Rudy Autor, Roy Barnes, Mic Diaz, Roger Parajes, Fernandico Gonong, Aris Duenas, and Joey Yumul. FAPCCA 2023 to 2024 President Lissa Pacheco Chow (right) and first Vice President Don Orozco Presidents emeritus also graced the occasion, led by founders Thelma Calabio and Andy Edralin, along with Isidric Panganiban and Benny Uy. Badajos closed his impactful speech by challenging FAPCCA to urge colleagues in Fil-Am circles to be truthful when it comes to reporting. He said, I would like to challenge FAPCCA to rise to this occasion, to be vanguards of the truth in news reporting, to ensure that the members of the community only hear what is truly factual, so they can make informed decisions that affect our community. Being a journalist is about staying committed to the cause, regardless of where you are. After spending two decades in the Philippines, striving to improve and gain wisdom as a writer and sharer of news whether it be good or bad, straightforward or controversial all in the honorable name of the profession, I feel privileged to be a new member of FAPCCA myself. Heres to my colleagues and to empowering Filipino Americans! Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. The Wellness Bar Owners Mandi and Travis Hundley won over $23K in cash and in-kind services at the 2023 Gauntlet awards. Including the graduates from the 2023 session, The Gauntlet has had over 900 alumni go through its program, The Advancement Foundation President Annette Patterson said. The Advancement Foundation runs the program. Building or growing a business can be very lonely, it can be very scary, Patterson said at the Gauntlet awards in Vinton, broadcast over Facebook Live. You question yourself regularly I think one of the things that is so magical is the way that you [The Gauntlet participants] support each other. This is a competition, and you guys are supporting each other every step of the way, Patterson added. The Gauntlet small business owners participated in a 10-week course that started in February, and the ceremony announcing the winners was held May 25. The grand prize winner, for the second year in a row, was a Martinsville-based business. The Wellness Bar: Uptown, owned and operated by the Hundleys, was awarded first place and $23,690 in cash and in-kind services. This included $8,000 in cash, a legal evaluation with Juan Vega Law, a professional edited business video feature and promo by Rudys Girl Media, a one-year membership to the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, an advertising consulting package, a display on a billboard, a Vinton Messenger article write-up, a one-year membership to the Innovation Council and a spot in the Next Level Growth Workshop. Two other local businesses also participated in the competition and were awarded prizes. Sarah Bidwell, owner of Wills on Wheels, tied for seventh place with another business and earned $8,890 in cash and in-kind services. Bidwell received $3,000 cash, a legal evaluation with Juan Vega Law, a one-year membership to the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, a one-year membership to the Central Virginia Business Coalition, a Stand Out Hearts package, a business consultation, an advertising consultation, an interview on The Vinton Chatter, a one-year membership to the Innovation Council and a spot in the Next Level Growth Workshop. Zenobia Spencer, owner of Redlight, Greenlight, GO, was awarded $4,640 in prizes for her health and wellness business. She received a legal evaluation with Juan Vega Law, a one-year membership to the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, a press release distribution package from The Advancement Foundation, a business consultation, a one-year membership to the Innovation Council and a spot in the Next Level Growth Workshop. Over a hundred businesses participated in the program and 43 of those businesses competed in the competition. Each competitor was awarded a prize in some form, from cash to in-kind services. KYIV, Ukraine A rare drone attack jolted Moscow early Tuesday, causing only light damage but forcing evacuations as residential buildings were struck in the Russian capital for the first time in the war against Ukraine. The Kremlin, meanwhile, pursued its relentless bombardment of Kyiv with a third assault on the city in 24 hours. The Russian Defense Ministry said five drones were shot down in Moscow and the systems of three others were jammed, causing them to veer off course. President Vladimir Putin called it a terrorist act by Kyiv. The attack, while causing what Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said was only insignificant damage to several buildings, brought the war home to civilians in Russias capital. Two people received treatment for unspecified injuries but did not need hospitalization, Sobyanin said, adding that residents of two high-rise buildings damaged in the attack were evacuated. Andrei Vorobyov, governor of the wider Moscow region, said some of the drones were shot down on the approach to Moscow. Ukraine made no direct comment on the attack, which would be one of its deepest and most daring strikes into Russia since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than 15 months ago. The Kyiv regime attempts to intimidate Russia, Russian citizens and strikes at civilian buildings," Putin said during a public event. "It is, of course, a clear indication of terrorist activity. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Tuesday the U.S. was still gathering information about the drone strike but reiterated that as a general matter the U.S. administration does not support Ukraine using American weaponry in Russian territory. A U.S. military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be announced this week will total up to $300 million and will include additional munitions for drones, U.S. officials said Tuesday. The drone ammunition comes after new attacks by unmanned aircraft targeted Moscow. There has been no suggestion that U.S.-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow, and U.S. officials say Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. The Kremlin blamed Kyiv for Tuesday's attack, but Ukrainian officials had no direct comment. But the new aid package comes at a tense moment in the war as Ukraine shows signs its long-awaited spring counteroffensive may already be underway. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects to approve at the end of August the second evaluation of the support program to Guinea-Bissau, with the disbursement of 3.16 million dollars (about 2.95 million euros), the institution announced Tuesday. The mission reached at the staff level an agreement with the authorities on the economic and financial policies capable of supporting the approval of the 2nd evaluation of the program by the IMF Executive Board, at a session tentatively scheduled for the end of August 2023, it said in a statement. The head of mission for Guinea-Bissau, Jose Gijon, noted that after completion of this assessment, Guinea-Bissau will have access to an additional US$3.16 million, which would bring the total financial support disbursed by the IMF under the current program to about US$9.48 million (about 8.84 million euros). The mission to Guinea-Bissau held meetings in May 2023, virtual from 17 to 22 and in Bissau from 23 to today, to discuss the second evaluation of the Extended Credit Facility (ECF) initially approved on January 30, 2023, for a total amount of about $38 million. The result was satisfactory, as reported on Monday, based on statements made in Bissau by the head of the mission, with emphasis on structural reforms, where all the benchmarks of the second evaluation and one of the third and fourth evaluations were met. Overall, five of the eight quantitative performance criteria were met, noted the mission, noting that to ensure the sustainability of debt and public finances, it will be essential to increase domestic revenue and contain the wage bill, as well as other current expenses and transfers, and these were the three criteria not met. The government approved the creation of the National Employment Fund in Angola (Funea), which already has 25 billion kwanzas (44.3 million euros) available for this year, to mitigate unemployment mainly among youth. According to the Economic Commission of the Council of Ministers, which met Tuesday under the guidance of the Angolan President, Joao Lourenco, the fund will ensure the necessary financial resources for the promotion of public and private initiatives for the insertion of recent graduates and the unemployed into the labor market, as well as the granting of non-refundable incentives to young people who attend professional training courses or actions. Speaking to the press, the Minister of Public Administration, Labor and Social Security (MAPTSS), Teresa Dias, said that a management contract with a financial institution is foreseen to give substance to the employability projects at a national level. We have been monitoring until now that in the various ministerial departments there have been several employability initiatives. What we intend with the creation of this fund is to have concentrated financial resources so that employability initiatives can be effectively structured, implemented, and not repeated by the various state bodies, she said. In this sense, continued the minister, all existing funds for employability are now gathered in a single body and under better management. Teresa Dias affirmed that the target public must be the youth, which registers the highest unemployment rate, about five million inhabitants, being already available for this year 25 billion kwanzas, which will be funded through extraordinary treasury resources. This money is already guaranteed for the end of the year, and every year, we will have, via Treasury resources, resources allocated to the fund, added the minister. Noting that this is not the only source to finance the Fund, which also has resources to encourage active employment policies. The head of Russian diplomacy, Sergei Lavrov, is due to visit Mozambique on Wednesday, where he will be received by President Filipe Nyusi, as part of strengthening bilateral relations, the Presidency said in a statement. The meeting in Maputo is scheduled for 10:00 local time and comes right after another meeting that had already been announced, between Lavrov and the Mozambican Minister of Public Works, Carlos Mesquita. The leaders will discuss the strengthening of relations of friendship, solidarity and cooperation, as well as the political, social, economic and security situation of the two countries. They will also exchange views on the war in Ukraine, reads a statement from the Mozambican Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (Minec), where the first meeting of the day will take place. The Portuguese-speaking country has taken a position of neutrality, calling for dialogue to end the war from its position as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, a two-year term that began in January. Mozambique was among the countries that abstained in votes at the United Nations (UN) General Assembly condemning Russias invasion of neighboring Ukraine. Sergei Lavrov is in Maputo as part of his tour of African countries. The head of russian diplomacy began his tour of Africa on Monday in Nairobi, where he met with Kenyan President William Ruto, and Tuesday he was in Bujumbura, Burundi, where he discussed with his counterpart, Albert Shingiro. Lavrov is expected to attend a meeting of the Foreign ministers of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) group in Cape Town on Thursday and Friday in preparation for the Summit the african country is hosting next August. The ministers trip also comes ahead of the second Russia-Africa Summit, to be held in St. Petersburg in July. The visit to Africa comes after Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba last week concluded a tour of the continent which included Mozambique during which he urged african countries to end their neutrality regarding the war against Ukraine. Photo: The Canadian Press Changes are needed to the online news bill to prevent the regulator from snooping in newsrooms and threatening the independence of the press, leaders of media organizations told senators Tuesday. The Globe and Mails publisher and chief executive, Phillip Crawley, expressed concern that Bill C-18, as currently worded, could pose a threat to media freedom by giving the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission open-ended powers to compel news organizations to hand over information. He asked members of the Senate transport and communications committee, which is examining the bill, to accept amendments to protect newsrooms from potential snooping by the CRTC. Allowing the CRTC to go fishing for confidential information from news organizations, particularly information related to editorial departments, would be an overreach that is best avoided, he said. The information-gathering powers of the CRTC should be limited to information necessary to confirm the eligibility of news organizations or to investigate a complaint. Bill C-18 would compel tech giants to strike deals to pay news organizations for linking or posting to their work. The regime would be overseen by the CRTC, which would have powers to intervene if media organizations and tech giants fail to strike voluntary agreements. It would have the power to compel news organizations to hand over information. Mr. Crawleys concerns were echoed by Paul Deegan, president and CEO of News Media Canada, an organization that represents the news industry. Mr. Deegan told senators the bill needs changes to preserve newsroom independence by restricting what the CRTC can demand to see. He suggested a series of amendments to tighten up the language of the bill. We want to limit the role of the CRTC, Mr. Deegan said. We dont want them snooping around in our newsrooms. Mr. Crawley said Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez had made assurances that snooping would not happen, but he asked senators to tighten the language of the bill to remove all doubt. He said without changes to its wording, Bill C-18 could pose a threat to the independence of the press. The language as it stands would be, in my view, dangerous to the freedom of the media, he said. Mr. Deegan expressed hope the bill would become law by the summer to help small newspapers strike deals with tech giants that post their articles or links to their work. He said small- and medium-sized papers need the framework of the bill to bring the tech giants to the bargaining table. The bill would enable papers to band together to negotiate compensation with the tech giants. Facebook, Google and Apple have already signed some partnership deals with news organizations in Canada, including The Globe and Mail. At the Senate hearing, Pierre-Elliott Levasseur, president of LaPresse, a French-language digital newspaper, said Google had abruptly halted negotiations on an agreement while waiting for C-18 to pass. We negotiated in good faith and one day they stood up and called us and said that the negotiations are over, he said. Google has said it wants greater clarity on whether existing or potential agreements with publishers will be recognized under C-18. We have been negotiating voluntarily with publishers for almost two years and have signed Google News Showcase deals that support over 150 publications across the country, Google spokesperson Shay Purdy told The Globe. Unfortunately, the vague and broad exemption criteria under Bill C-18 have created a lot of uncertainty as to whether existing and potential Showcase agreements would be recognized. The tech giant is sharply critical of the bill and has asked the government to make changes. It says it should not have to compensate news organizations for linking to their articles. Earlier this year, Google conducted five weeks of tests of potential responses to the online news bill, which led to around 1.1 million Canadians having their ability to search for news sites temporarily restricted. Facebook has warned it will block Canadians ability to view or share news if the bill becomes law in its current form. Senators asked the representatives of news organizations what the impact could be if Facebook withdraws from news. They were told it could cost the industry millions of dollars. Mr. Deegan warned that if Facebook blocks Canadians access to news, it could restrict public access to reliable information. What would be left on their platform? Theyre the plumbing of social media, and in there you have the clean drinking water which is news. But then you have got all sorts of sewage: the misinformation and disinformation, he said. Really what this bill is about is ensuring that local news survives. Senators asked representatives of the news media about the CBC, which is state funded, getting federal and commercial advertising. Mr. Deegan said the news industry is competing head-to-head with the state-funded broadcaster for scarce advertising revenue. The CBC should be free of commercial advertising, he said. He called on the federal government to spend more money advertising in newspapers, including local papers. We need the feds to step up, he said. Federal ad dollars shouldnt be going to the CBC, and frankly private-sector ad dollars shouldnt be going to their news and current affairs properties. 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 An extended lymphadenectomyremoval of additional lymph nodes beyond the extent of the standard procedurein patients undergoing radical cystectomy (removal of bladder and nearby tissues) because of clinically localized muscle-invasive bladder cancer provides no patient benefit as measured by disease-free survival or overall survival times. It does, however, increase the risk of adverse events (side effects) and post-surgical death. These primary results from the phase 3 SWOG S1011 clinical trial are being delivered in an oral presentation at the 2023 annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology in Chicago on June 5 (Abstract 4508). The results will be presented by S1011 principal investigator Seth P. Lerner, MD, the Beth and Dave Swalm Chair in Urologic Oncology at Baylor College of Medicine and an investigator with the SWOG Cancer Research Network that led the study. The results of S1011 are expected to change clinical practice in treating these patients. "Extended lymphadenectomy is considered a standard of care and is increasingly used," Lerner said, "especially for patients with locally advanced bladder cancer, who have a higher risk of lymph node metastases." Once cancer invades the muscle of the bladder, it can also get into the blood and lymphatic system and can lodge in the lymph nodes. In about one-quarter of patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer, the disease has already spread to regional lymph nodes. For this reason, after removing the bladder in these patients, surgeons will also remove all of the lymph nodes in the primary landing zone from around the bladder. Removing those lymph nodesknown as a lymphadenectomysignificantly reduces the chances of the cancer returning within the pelvis. The SWOG S1011 trial asked whether it was better to extend the lymphadenectomy to remove even more lymph nodes from a wider area, and whether this would reduce the risk of recurrent disease or death. Surgeons participating in the trial had to first undergo a credentialing process designed specifically for the study. A total of 36 surgeons at 27 participating sites in the U.S. and Canada were credentialed, and they enrolled 658 patients, 618 of whom were eligible to be randomized. These patients were randomized during their surgery, after the surgeon had determined the patient's disease had not spread beyond the pelvis. All patients underwent a standard bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy; those randomized to the investigative arm then also had an extended lymph node removal, with nodes removed at least up to the aortic bifurcation. The median number of nodes removed was greater in the patients on the extended lymphadenectomy arm39 nodes vs. 24 nodes on the control armbut the percentage of nodes found to contain metastatic disease was similar on the two arms26 percent versus 24 percent, respectively. Patients on the extended lymphadenectomy arm were more likely to experience grade 3 or 4 adverse events (serious side effects) within 90 days of surgery, regardless of attribution, than patients who received a standard lymphadenectomy49 percent of patients versus 42 percent. Additionally, the number of deaths within 90 days of surgery was also greater on the investigative arm19 patients versus 7 patients. The SWOG S1011 team had hypothesized that the group of patients on the investigative arm would have improved disease-free and overall survival times compared to those on the control arm. However, no significant differences were seen between the extended versus standard lymphadenectomy arms in disease-free survival (HR = 1.10 [95% CI 0.87, 1.42], 2-sided p = 0.40) or in overall survival times (HR 1.15 [95% CI 0.89, 1.48] 2-sided p = 0.29). Lerner noted that a definitive phase III surgical trial of this sort was an ideal fit for the NCI's National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN). "SWOG S1011 addressed an important surgical question, and the federally funded NCTN is uniquely suited for such practice-changing trials led by surgical oncologists," Lerner said. "Collaboration across the NCTN was the key to success, as was equipoise from high-volume surgeons who recognized the lack of level I evidence supporting our current practice at the time we conceived the trial." More information: Abstract 4508: Phase 3 SWOG S1011 clinical trial Provided by SWOG Cancer Research Network 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: Graphical Abstract. Credit: Cell Reports (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112466 A drug that was originally developed to treat diabetes and severe overweight might also help people with nicotine dependence, concludes new research from the University of Copenhagen. Smoking is one of the greatest threats to public health. According to new data from the Danish Health Authority, 15,920 Danes die every year because of their addiction to cigarettes. And 75% of smokers want to quit. So why don't they? The answer is: nicotine. It is one of the most addictive known substances. According to the Danish Health Authority, almost one in four Danes is addicted to at least one nicotine product. And young people's use of snuff and electronic cigarettes is increasing. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for nicotine cravings. But new research from the University of Copenhagen might be able to change that. "In connection with a mouse study focusing on overweight, we discovered, more or less by accident, that a well-known drug, liraglutide, used to treat diabetes and overweight, affects the impact of nicotine on the brain. Liraglutide inhibits the effect that nicotine has on the brain's reward system," says the main author of the study, Associate Professor Christoffer Clemmensen from the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research at the University of Copenhagen. He explains that GLP-1 and nicotine are the two substances that affect the brain's reward system. Nicotine from tobacco, for example, releases a large amount of dopamine in the brain, which acts as a kind of reward. This is one of the reasons why it is so hard to quit nicotine products. "Seeing as our study has a different focus, i.e. to determine whether the two substances interact to promote weight loss, we did not pursue the surprising effect on the dopamine system, and more research is therefore needed to determine whether treatment with liraglutide will cause mice to ingest less nicotine," adds Christoffer Clemmensen. New clinical trials focussing on nicotine dependence In the study, which has been published in the journal Cell Reports, the researchers studied two known appetite inhibitors: GLP-1 and nicotine. GLP-1 is used in various diabetes and weight loss drugs. The researchers already knew that nicotine increases energy expenditure, and many who quit nicotine products subsequently gain weight. Together, the two substances appear to promote weight loss, while GLP-1 alone seems to reduce nicotine cravings. And, according to the international database of clinical trials, many researchers are currently testing whether GLP-1-based drugs can help people quit smoking. Collaboration with UCPH brain researchers Christoffer Clemmensen explains that it was only recently discovered that a combination of GLP-1 and nicotine has a greater effect on the body than either of the two substances alone. The two substances affect the same neurons in specific parts of the brain, and the researchers have been able to demonstrate that GLP-1 affects the body's response to nicotine. "Initially, we therefore wanted to see whether a combination of nicotine and GLP-1 could effectively reduce overweight. Our animal models showed some interesting effects. So we did more tests focussing on the reward and appetite regulating systems," says Christoffer Clemmensen. "We were surprised to learn how extensively GLP-1 and nicotine interact. It is a well-known fact that both substances affect food intake, and this effect seems to be even greater when you combine the two substances. It not only reduces food intake; it also causes the body to release less dopamine, reducing nicotine cravings," he says. The trials focussing on the brain's reward system were conducted together with the Gether Lab at the Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, who measured dopamine release in the brain. The researchers are not planning to conduct clinical trials of the interaction between GLP-1-based drugs and nicotine, but they hope their work will encourage pharmaceutical companies to consider the potential of the area. More information: Sarah Falk et al, GLP-1 and nicotine combination therapy engages hypothalamic and mesolimbic pathways to reverse obesity, Cell Reports (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112466 Journal information: Cell Reports 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 The widely-available drug fentanyl, already the number one killer of Americans under 50, could be weaponized and used for terroristic mass poisoning, according to health experts at Rutgers and other institutions. "Before fentanyl, the only viable mass poisons were rare and difficult-to-access agents such as cyanide or nerve agents," said Lewis Nelson, chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and senior author of the new Frontiers in Public Health paper. "Fentanyl can be just as deadly if properly disseminated, and it's ubiquitous. A motivated person could readily obtain enough to potentially poison hundreds of peoplewhich, uncut, would fit easily onto a teaspoon." Unlike biological attacks, in which a weaponized disease could spread globally and kill millions, chemical attacks generally only harm the victim through direct exposure. Still, fentanyl's high toxicity makes it a viable tool for unleashing a damaging, intentional event on an unsuspecting population. Attackers with little technical knowledge could introduce the synthetic opioid in fatal doses into building ventilation systems or local food or water supplies. Nelson said it's unlikely to be successful in a large-scale attack, so simply dumping a truckload in a reservoir would be unlikely to produce significant casualties. History vividly demonstrates its potential as an aerosolized, inhaled poison. Russian authorities seem to have weaponized a fentanyl-like drug in 2002, after Chechen terrorists seized a crowded theater and threatened to execute hundreds of hostages unless Russia withdrew from Chechnya. Conventional rescue operations against 40 well-armed and well-fortified captors appeared impossible, so security forces pumped a fentanyl analog into the theater's ventilation system, incapacitating nearly everyone inside. They then stormed the building, shot the unconscious terrorists, and brought the hostages for medical care. The operation left 130 hostages dead and demonstrated the scale of harm that is possible when fentanyl is used for non-peaceful purposes. "We have no effective antidotes to many poisons, but we do have an antidote to fentanyl poisoningnaloxone, which also goes by the brand name Narcanand the extreme frequency of unintentional fentanyl overdoses means we now stock this antidote in large quantities at health care facilities and pharmacies," Nelson said. The frequency of accidental overdose also means that many healthcare providers and non-medical personnel have learned to recognize the signs of fentanyl poisoning while there is still time to reverse it. The paper's plan for minimizing vulnerability to fentanyl attacks calls for training more caregivers to spot victims quickly and administer naloxone early. "Treating based on clinical findings rather than more definitive tests such as blood-test results is generally safe," Nelson said. "If you suspect fentanyl poisoning, administer naloxone, and it turns out the poison was another agent, you generally haven't hurt the patient." The panel's response plan relies largely on such preparatory steps: training more people to recognize poisoning, creating channels to report unusual victims of fentanyl poisoning, finding commonalities among these victims, and eliminating the sources for obtaining fentanyl. It also involves devising ways to quickly transfer many doses of naloxone to where they are needed most. "We have a lot of naloxone available in metropolitan and rural areas," said Nelson. He noted that it's safe to aid poisoning victims because fentanyl powder must be inhaled or ingested to hurt rescuers, and this is exceedingly unlikely to occur. There is essentially no risk of rapid absorption across the skin. "The key in a mass event will be quickly moving naloxone to the scene or to facilities that are suddenly overwhelmed with victims. Fentanyl generally kills more slowly than poisons like cyanide, but it still requires quick action to prevent harm." More information: Susan M. Cibulsky et al, Public health and medical preparedness for mass casualties from the deliberate release of synthetic opioids, Frontiers in Public Health (2023). DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1158479 Journal information: Frontiers in Public Health 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 Experiences of homebirth are overwhelmingly more positive than hospital births, according to a study conducted by researchers in Trinity College Dublin. The research also found that in hospital, midwifery-led care scored significantly higher than consultant care. The online survey of 141 participants is the first study to compare experiences of those who have given birth both in hospital and at home in Ireland. It is also the largest published study on homebirth in Ireland in more than 25 years. Participants were overwhelming more positive about their experience of homebirth compared to their experience of hospital birth across all aspects of care surveyed, explains lead researcher Soma Gregory, at the School of Social Work & Social Policy, Trinity. The study has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Women and Birth. Those surveyed rated their experience of homebirth as 9.7 out of 10 compared to an average score of 5.5 out of 10 for hospital birth. In addition, the researchers found that in the hospital setting, midwifery-led care was scored significantly higher at 6.4 out of 10 compared to consultant-led care at 4.9 out of 10. Lead researcher, Soma Gregory, at the School of Social Work & Social Policy, Trinity, explained: "Better continuity of care, greater bodily integrity and more informed consent during home births were identified by participants as some of the reasons why their homebirth experience was more positive than their hospital birth." "Many of the women and other birthing people who participated in the study felt that interventions routinely offered in hospital were unwanted or unnecessary and would alter the natural course of birth, with a perception that hospital policies and procedures were often at odds with individual birth preferences and aspirations. Participants expressed feelings of joy, comfort and safety from being at home and indicated that their family's presence and involvement created intimate and personal experiences, which were in contrast to experiences described in hospital." In Ireland, the vast majority of births take place in the hospital-setting either under the care of an obstetrician or a team of midwives. However, recent years have seen an increased demand for homebirth services, both in Ireland and internationally. In 2021, 650 planned homebirths took place in Ireland, a 53% increase compared to 2019. Little is known about those who choose to give birth at home or about their experiences of receiving care from Irish maternity services. Dr. Louise Caffrey, School of Social Work & Social Policy, said, "This research underscores the importance of providing maternity care which is respectful and responsive to diverse beliefs and aspirations about childbirthparticularly in the hospital setting. It also clearly illustrates the need for genuine choice within Ireland's maternity services" Dr. Deirdre Daly, School of Nursing and Midwifery, added, "This study provides important new insights on experiences of homebirth and hospital births. It furthers our understanding of what women need from our maternity services in order to have lovely, positive experiences. It really highlights the critical importance of women's relationship with midwives and maternity care providers, and the importance of having a continuity of care and caregivers." More information: Soma Gregory et al, "It could not have been more different." Comparing experiences of hospital-based birth and homebirth in Ireland: A mixed-methods survey, Women and Birth (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2023.02.003 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 In the United States, federal legislation mandates that all states track data on all newborns who have been exposed to substances during pregnancy and ensure that a plan of Safe Care is created for each family. Yet each state manages those regulations differently. In Massachusetts, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) has issued guidance that any prenatal substance exposureincluding exposure to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD)is an indication to file a report for alleged child abuse/neglect upon the birth of the child. MOUD including methadone and buprenorphine are effective treatments that bind to opioid receptors and reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. They decrease non-prescribed opioid use and reduce the risk of overdose. Yet when used in pregnancy as the recommended treatment, health care workers in Massachusetts are required to file a report to CPS. This creates a dilemma for pregnant individuals with OUDdo they continue their prescribed treatments and risk the intervention of state services, or stop taking MOUD during pregnancy, which can increase the risk of relapse or overdose and impact the health of mother and child? A team of researchers led by Davida M. Schiff, MD, director of Perinatal and Family Based Substance Use Disorders Care at Massachusetts General Hospital, conducted a study to learn more about the impact of these regulations on pregnant and postpartum individuals with OUD. Their findings were recently published in the Maternal and Child Health Journal. Schiff and colleagues interviewed 26 individuals with OUD who delivered a baby in the past three years. Those who received MOUD during pregnancy described the mandated state reporting process as "discriminatory, unjust and stigmatizing." Participants also experienced intense anxiety and stress knowing that they would be reported to CPS upon delivery. One felt pained to be identified as a "child abuser," while others worried they would be separated from their children. Some were treated like unfit mothers by healthcare workers and state staff. Participants said the state-mandated reporting policy also had a direct impact on their medical decisionsone individual who had been taking MOUD for two years prior to becoming pregnant decided to stop treatment during pregnancy for fear of being reported. Based on these interviews, Schiff and colleagues believe that uncoupling OUD treatment decisions from mandated reporting during the perinatal period (pregnancy and postpartum) is essential. "Other states in New EnglandNew Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Islanddo not have an automatic filing with CPS when newborns have been exposed to medications in-utero," says Schiff, who is also an assistant professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. "Under the current policy [in Massachusetts], women who are stable and in long-term recovery for OUD are potentially subject to the same reporting and scrutiny that is required for a child who has been physically or sexually abused," says Schiff. Although prenatal MOUD exposure can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, the condition is transient and treatable, Schiff says. "Newborns with a physical dependence to either methadone or buprenorphine are treated and supported in the same manner as newborns who are dependent on other medications their mothers took during pregnancy, such as insulin," she explains. "We don't report women whose newborns require special treatment from being exposed to insulin to treat gestational diabetes. But that's what we are doing when a pregnant woman receives MOUD." The current policy doesn't require notifications for other prescribed medications that can have an impact on fetal and infant health, such as benzodiazepines for anxiety and SSRIs for depression, notes first author Erin Work, who is currently completing a master's degree in public health and social welfare at University of California, Los Angeles. "The fact that medications for opioid use disorder are singled out in this policy speaks to the stigma against women with a history of substance use disorder as unfit mothers." The policy also discriminates against women, adds Work. "Fathers who are using either prescribed or non-prescribed substances are not subject to the same mandated reporting as women receiving MOUD." The research by MGH investigators was prompted by Massachusetts legislators, who asked for data that demonstrates that the state's current reporting policies are harmful to women and families. Two bills concerning newborns affected by in-utero substance exposure are scheduled to be discussed in a joint hearing in July. More information: Erin C. Work et al, Prescribed and Penalized: The Detrimental Impact of Mandated Reporting for Prenatal Utilization of Medication for Opioid Use Disorder, Maternal and Child Health Journal (2023). DOI: 10.1007/s10995-023-03672-x 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: CC0 Public Domain Forty percent of critically ill children whose parents or other caregivers declined tracheostomies died within 24 months, and half of all deaths occurred within six weeks, researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center and Children's Medical Center Dallas found. The findings, published in The Laryngoscope, could help physicians counsel parents who must decide whether their child will receive a tracheostomy, a decision with significant emotional, social, and economic impacts for families, the authors say. "The decision to place a tracheostomy in a child is a very difficult task for most families who face it. This study doesn't dictate which children should or should not receive a tracheostomy, but will help families contemplating what might happen if they decide to withhold placement," said study leader Stephen R. Chorney, M.D., M.P.H., Assistant Professor of OtolaryngologyHead and Neck Surgery at UT Southwestern. A tracheostomy, also known as a tracheotomy, inserts a breathing tube into the trachea through an opening surgically created in the neck. Situations that can call for a tracheostomy include respiratory failure, airway obstruction, and severe neurological injury, Dr. Chorney said. Having a tracheostomy is a life-changing event for children and their families, he said. Routine errands such as going to the grocery store become far more complicated, necessitating a bevy of equipment and planning. Caring for tracheostomies can be emotionally exhausting and financially draining, Dr. Chorney added, often requiring caregivers to rethink their ability to work full-time or continue living in the same place if it's not conducive to their child's care. Healthy children in these families often must accept a shortage of attention and resources devoted to siblings with tracheostomies. Most caregivers agree to their child receiving a tracheostomy, but others decline, saying it doesn't align with their family or religious values, capacity for care, or goals for their child or family. Although significant research exists on outcomes for children who receive tracheostomies, no studies have previously explored outcomes for those whose caregivers decline, Dr. Chorney saidwhich limits physicians' ability to provide adequate counseling to caregivers. To fill this gap, Dr. Chorney and his colleagues reviewed medical records of 261 children offered a tracheostomy between 2016 and 2021 at Children's Medical Center Dallas. There, the Children's Health Pediatric Airway Management Programa multidisciplinary team of providers dedicated to caring for children with tracheostomiesprovides counseling for caregivers whose children are eligible for them. These records showed that 203 caregivers agreed to a tracheostomy after counseling and 58 caregivers declined. Of the children whose caregivers declined placement, 52% had died by their latest follow-up compared to 21% of the children who received a tracheostomy. The mean time to death was 11 months when a tracheostomy was not placed but was more than 28 months when placed. About 31% of children not obtaining a tracheostomy died within a mean of 1.2 months after this difficult decision, never leaving the hospital. Factors associated with declining a tracheostomy included the child being older, having congenital malformations, and having a history of sepsis, which is a life-threatening response to infection. Factors linked to dying after declining tracheostomy included being younger, having a history of sepsis, being intubated at the time of consultation, and needing the tracheostomy for a condition other than chronic lung disease. Dr. Chorney noted that although tracheostomies can significantly extend survival, they don't always improve quality of life. He and his colleagues plan to study quality of life both for families choosing for their children to receive tracheostomies and those declining them. When tracheostomies are no longer needed, they can be removed to allow the neck to heal or be surgically closed. However, for some patients they are permanent, which highlights the magnitude of these decisions for caregivers before placement. More information: Palmila Liu et al, Survival After Declining Pediatric Tracheostomy Placement, The Laryngoscope (2023). DOI: 10.1002/lary.30712 Journal information: Laryngoscope 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: Overview of the OpenPBTA Project.A, The Childrens Brain Tumor Network and the Pacific Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium collected tumor samples from 943 patients. To date, 22 cell lines were created from tumor tissue, and over 2000 specimens were sequenced (N = 1035 RNA-Seq, N = 940 WGS, and N = 32 WXS or targeted panel). Data was harmonized by the Kids First Data Resource Center using an Amazon S3 framework within CAVATICA. B, Stacked bar plot summary of the number of biospecimens per phase of therapy per broad histology (Abbreviations: GNG = ganglioglioma, Other LGG = other low-grade glioma, PA = pilocytic astrocytoma, PXA = pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, SEGA = subependymal giant cell astrocytoma, DIPG = diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, DMG = diffuse midline glioma, Other HGG = other high-grade glioma, ATRT = atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor, MB = medulloblastoma, Other ET = other embryonal tumor, EPN = ependymoma, PNF = plexiform neurofibroma, DNET = dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor, CRANIO = craniopharyngioma, EWS = Ewing sarcoma, CPP = choroid plexus papilloma). Only samples with available descriptors were included. C, Overview of the open analysis and manuscript contribution model. In the analysis GitHub repository, a contributor would propose an analysis that other participants can comment on. Contributors would then implement the analysis and file a request to add their changes to the analysis repository (pull request). Pull requests underwent review for scientific rigor and correctness of implementation. Pull requests were additionally checked to ensure that all software dependencies were included and the code was not sensitive to underlying data changes using container and continuous integration technologies. Finally, a contributor would file a pull request documenting their methods and results to the Manubot-powered manuscript repository. Pull requests in the manuscript repository were also subject to review. D, A potential path for an analytical pull request. Arrows indicate revisions to a pull request. Prior to review, a pull request was tested for dependency installation and whether or not the code would execute. Pull requests also required approval by organizers and/or other contributors, who checked for scientific correctness. Panel A created with BioRender.com. Credit: BioRxiv (2022). DOI: 10.1101/2022.09.13.507832 Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation Childhood Cancer Data Lab, the Children's Brain Tumor Network (CBTN), the Pacific Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium (PNOC), and more than 20 additional institutions have partnered to create a first-of-its-kind open-source, reproducible analysis platform for pediatric brain tumors. With the help of thousands of genomically sequenced samples, researchers have used this platform to identify initial findings about genetic variants associated with poorer outcomes that could help guide future diagnostic and therapeutic advances. The details of the platform and those initial findings were published online today by the journal Cell Genomics, after appearing on the bioRxiv preprint server. Pediatric brain tumors are collectively the leading cause of cancer-related death in children in the United States. However, the severity of pediatric brain tumors varies wildly, with some having an almost universally fatal prognosis while others have relatively strong long-term survival rates, though all brain tumors negatively impact these children and their families to at least some degree. Limited access to tissue samples and patient-derived cell lines has been a significant barrier to understanding the differences between pediatric brain tumors at a molecular level. That long sought-after data could lead to better diagnostic techniques and potential targeted therapies that could treat these deadly tumors. In 2011, CBTN and PNOC began extracting and preparing what has now become nearly 6,000 tumor samples with over 68,000 sub-samples. More than 1,000 of these tumors were sequenced to form the initial release of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Atlas (PTBA) in 2018, and data were made available without embargo so that researchers could study what variants might be driving certain types of brain tumors. With the help of the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation Childhood Cancer Data Lab, the team of researchers was able to build an open-source version of this atlas, the Open Pediatric Brain Tumor Atlas (OpenPBTA), to analyze these data. OpenPBTA is accessible to anyone conducting research who is looking for new therapeutic targets or finding new ways to translate research into clinical practice. At the time of this study, OpenPBTA contained genomic and clinical data from more than 1,000 pediatric brain tumors and 22 patient-derived cell lines from the CBTN and PNOC. The OpenPBTA provides an open, real-time framework to genomically characterize pediatric brain tumors. It is the first large-scale, collaborative, open analysis of genomic data and provides a cloud-based resource for researchers looking for more comprehensive data on pediatric brain tumors. "While there have been many proponents of an open-source model for scientific research, nothing like this existed for pediatric cancer," said Jo Lynne Rokita, Ph.D., a Supervisory Bioinformatics Scientist leading OpenPBTA at the Center for Data-Driven Discovery (D3B) at CHOP and one of the study's corresponding authors. "We designed OpenPBTA so that anyone could access the data, contribute to its analysis, and/or use it in their own research." "Collaboration is key to accelerating new cure discovery. OpenPBTA made it possible for experts across the globe to come together and gain a deeper understanding of the leading cause of cancer-related death in children and young adults," said Jay Scott, Co-Executive Director of Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation. Jaclyn N. Taroni, Ph.D., another corresponding author on the study and Director of Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation Childhood Cancer Data Lab, said, "With our successful launch of OpenPBTA, we're hoping the research community adapts this model to other pediatric cancers." OpenPBTA is already providing researchers with more insight into potential drivers of pediatric brain tumors. In this study, researchers found that the loss of the tumor suppressor gene TP53 is a significant marker for poor overall survival in fast-growing brain and spinal cord tumors called ependymomas and certain diffuse midline gliomas, and dysregulation of the gene was also implicated in hypermutant high-grade gliomas. "Solving pediatric brain tumors cannot be accomplished by any one institution. The OpenPBTA model of shared, real-time collaboration supported by PNOC and CBTN has not only empowered new discoveries, but also innovative ways of performing the required science on behalf of accelerated, collaborative innovation for children affected by brain tumors," said Sabine Mueller MD, Ph.D., MAS, Professor of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco, and the Lead of PNOC and executive co-chair of CBTN. 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: Time to treatment failure in 10 patients treated with a targeted therapy. Credit: Frontiers in Oncology (2023). DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1143825 Gene alterations in biliary tract cancer offer potential targets for current or future precision therapies. This is demonstrated by a study conducted by Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences in collaboration with the Medical University of Vienna. In this study, published in the journal Frontiers in Oncology, cells from biliary tract cancer were examined for genetic alterations. The results demonstrate the potential of genetic profiling of tumors as a basis for promising and targeted therapies. Advanced cancers of the biliary tract (BTC) are almost always fatal. With a current five-year survival probability of 2 percent, the search is on for new, effective treatments. One challenge is the high genetic variability and heterogeneity of tumor cells. In order to better exploit this variability for targeted therapies, it has now been systematically investigated. The team from the Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences (KL Krems) and the Medical University of Vienna used data from 92 affected patients in 3 centers in Austria as a basis. "Today's sequencing methods allow us to localize genetic alterations in tumor cells very precisely," explains Hossein Taghizadeh, MD-Ph.D. from the Clinical Department of Internal Medicine 1 at St. Polten University Hospital, one of the education and research sites of KL Krems, and first author of the study. "These alterations are something like target coordinates for modern, very efficient and precise cancer therapies. Based on data from affected individuals in Austria, we wanted our study to create a systematic genetic 'map' of these target coordinates for BTC. At the same time, we aimed for showing that the methodology can be easily integrated into everyday clinical practice and that early tumor sequencing in advanced bile duct carcinoma should be established." Published internationally, the analysis in the study provided extensive results. In fact, a total of 205 molecular genetic aberrations were found in 61affected individuals. Only in 15 affected individuals were no aberrations detected at all, and in another 16 the sample material was not sufficient for analysis. The 205 aberrations included a total of 198 mutations occurring in 89 different genes. Other mismatches included those due to fusions of genes. Mutations of the KRAS and TP53 genes occurred most frequently (22.4 percent each). Both are "good acquaintances" in oncology, as their mutations are involved in the development of a whole range of different cancers. To assess the extent to which the mutations found would be suitable as targets for an existing precision therapy, the team led by Taghizadeh, MD-Ph.D., used the so-called ESCAT classification. This classifies cancer cell mutations according to their suitability as targets for precision therapy. "Our result showed that a quarter of all affected individuals with proven genetic abnormalities could benefit from precision therapies." Thus, the study clearly shows that bile duct cancer offers numerous potential targets for effective precision therapies. "Based on our findings," Taghizadeh, MD-Ph.D., explains, "we see a strong case for early molecular genetic profiling of BTC as part of the standard protocolpreferably before initiating systemic therapy. In this way, potential target coordinates for precision therapies could be found early and treatment adjusted accordingly. Especially since our work also demonstrates the feasibility of the necessary analyses in everyday clinical practice." More information: Hossein Taghizadeh et al, Austrian tricentric real-life analysis of molecular profiles of metastatic biliary tract cancer patients, Frontiers in Oncology (2023). DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1143825 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 University of Canterbury (UC) researchers Dr. Megan Gath and Professor Gail Gillon of UC's Child Well-being Research Institute, Education Professor Brigid McNeill, and Health Professor Lianne Woodward studied the impacts of screen exposure on early childhood development. Using data from over 6,000 children collected from Aotearoa New Zealand's largest longitudinal study, Growing Up in New Zealand, the researchers assessed children's screen exposure at nine months, two years, four years, five years, and eight years of age. The UC researchers measured the amount of time children spent on screens at different stages of childhood against language, early literacy and numeracy skills, and peer-related problems while also considering factors such as maternal education and socio-economic status. "The children who spent more time on screens throughout early childhoodnine months to five yearsscored lower on measures of language and educational ability and higher on parent-reported peer problems at ages five and eight," Dr. Gath says. Screen exposure included direct screen time spent watching TV or on a device, and indirect screen time where the child was in a room with the TV on but not actively watching. The UC researchers also evaluated the impact screen time has on development due to reduced time participating in other activities. Dr. Gath says children with high levels of screen exposure were less likely to be engaging in more socially and sensory-rich types of childhood activities, such as playgroups, museums, parks, and cultural events. "Screen time is only one of many factors that determine children's outcomes but it's one that is becoming increasingly prevalent. Early childhood is the time where parents have the most influence over children's habits and is a critical period for setting healthy habits, so if we can reduce screen time in early childhood there can be positive flow-on effects that influence good health throughout their lifespan." The 2017 Ministry of Health Active Play Guidelines recommend no sedentary screen time for children younger than 2, less than one hour per day for children aged between two and five, and less than two hours per day for children five years and older. 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: People enjoy drinks and snacks in the evening sun on a terrace overlooking Stockholm, on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Smoking is prohibited in both indoor and outdoor areas of bars and restaurants in Sweden, which has the lowest share of smokers in the European Union. Credit: AP Photo/Karl Ritter Summer is in the air, cigarette smoke is not, in Sweden's outdoor bars and restaurants. As the World Health Organization marks "World No Tobacco Day" on Wednesday, Sweden, which has the lowest rate of smoking in the Europe Union, is close to declaring itself "smoke free"defined as having fewer than 5% daily smokers in the population. Many experts give credit to decades of anti-smoking campaigns and legislation, while others point to the prevalence of "snus," a smokeless tobacco product that is banned elsewhere in the EU but is marketed in Sweden as an alternative to cigarettes. Whatever the reason, the 5% milestone is now within reach. Only 6.4% of Swedes over 15 were daily smokers in 2019, the lowest in the EU and far below the average of 18.5% across the 27-nation bloc, according to the Eurostat statistics agency. Figures from the Public Health Agency of Sweden show the smoking rate has continued to fall since then, reaching 5.6% last year. "We like a healthy way to live, I think that's the reason," said Carina Astorsson, a Stockholm resident. Smoking never interested her, she added, because "I don't like the smell; I want to take care of my body." A no smoking sign is seen at a bus stop in Stockholm, Sweden, June 25, 2019. Sweden, which has the lowest rate of smoking in Europe is now close to declaring itself smoke free, defined as having less than 5% daily smokers in the population. Some experts give credit to decades of anti-smoking campaigns and legislation, while others point to the prevalence of snus, a smokeless tobacco product thats illegal elsewhere in the European Union but is marketed in Sweden as an alternative to cigarettes. Credit: Magnus Andersson /TT News Agency via AP, File The risks of smoking appear well understood among health-conscious Swedes, including younger generations. Twenty years ago, almost 20% of the population were smokerswhich was a low rate globally at the time. Since then, measures to discourage smoking have brought down smoking rates across Europe, including bans on smoking in restaurants. France saw record drops in smoking rates from 2014 to 2019 but that success hit a plateau during the height of the COVID-19 pandemicblamed in part for causing stresses that drove people to light up. About one-third of people aged 18 to 75 in France professed to having smoked in 2021a slight increase on 2019. About a quarter smoke daily. Sweden has gone further than most to stamp out cigarettes, and says it's resulted in a range of health benefits, including a relatively low rate of lung cancer. "We were early in restricting smoking in public spaces, first in school playgrounds and after-school centers, and later in restaurants, outdoor cafes and public places such as bus stations," said Ulrika Arehed, secretary-general of the Swedish Cancer Society. "In parallel, taxes on cigarettes and strict restrictions on the marketing of these products have played an important role." A man holds a box of snus (snuff), at a store in Stockholm, on Jan. 23, 2023. Sweden, which has the lowest rate of smoking in Europe is now close to declaring itself smoke free, defined as having less than 5% daily smokers in the population. Some experts give credit to decades of anti-smoking campaigns and legislation, while others point to the prevalence of snus, a smokeless tobacco product thats illegal elsewhere in the European Union but is marketed in Sweden as an alternative to cigarettes. Credit: Claudio Bresciani /TT News Agency via AP, File She added that "Sweden is not there yet," noting that the proportion of smokers is higher in disadvantaged socio-economic groups. The sight of people lighting up is becoming increasingly rare in the country of 10.5 million. Smoking is prohibited at bus stops and train platforms and outside the entrances of hospitals and other public buildings. Like in most of Europe, smoking isn't allowed inside bars and restaurants, but since 2019 Sweden's smoking ban also applies to their outdoor seating areas. On Tuesday night, the terraces of Stockholm were full of people enjoying food and drinks in the late-setting sun. There was no sign of cigarettes, but cans of snus could be spotted on some tables. Between beers, some patrons stuffed small pouches of the moist tobacco under their upper lips. Swedish snus makers have long held up their product as a less harmful alternative to smoking and claim credit for the country's declining smoking rates. But Swedish health authorities are reluctant to advise smokers to switch to snus, another highly addictive nicotine product. A view of a variety of boxes of snus (snuff) in a fridge, at a store in Stockholm on Jan. 23, 2023. Sweden, which has the lowest rate of smoking in Europe is now close to declaring itself smoke free, defined as having less than 5% daily smokers in the population. Some experts give credit to decades of anti-smoking campaigns and legislation, while others point to the prevalence of snus, a smokeless tobacco product thats illegal elsewhere in the European Union but is marketed in Sweden as an alternative to cigarettes. Credit: Claudio Bresciani /TT News Agency via AP, File "I don't see any reason to put two harmful products up against each other," Arehed said. "It is true that smoking is more harmful than most things you can do, including snus. But that said, there are many health risks even with snus." Some studies have linked snus to increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and premature births if used during pregnancy. Swedes are so fond of their snus, a distant cousin of dipping tobacco in the United States, that they demanded an exemption to the EU's ban on smokeless tobacco when they joined the bloc in 1995. "It's part of the Swedish culture, it's like the Swedish equivalent of Italian Parma ham or any other cultural habit," said Patrik Hildingsson, a spokesman for Swedish Match, Sweden's top snus maker, which was acquired by tobacco giant Philip Morris last year. A portion of tobacco-free white snus (snuff) is seen in a woman's mouth, in Stockholm, April 14, 2022. Sweden, which has the lowest rate of smoking in Europe is now close to declaring itself smoke free, defined as having less than 5% daily smokers in the population. Some experts give credit to decades of anti-smoking campaigns and legislation, while others point to the prevalence of snus, a smokeless tobacco product thats illegal elsewhere in the European Union but is marketed in Sweden as an alternative to cigarettes. Credit: Paul Wennerholm/TT News Agency via AP, File He said policymakers should encourage the tobacco industry to develop less harmful alternatives to smoking such as snus and e-cigarettes. "I mean, 1.2 billion smokers are still out there in the world. Some 100 million people smoke daily in the EU. And I think we can (only) go so far with policymaking regulations," he said. "You will need to give the smokers other less harmful alternatives, and a range of them." WHO, the U.N. health agency, says Turkmenistan, with a rate of tobacco use below 5%, is ahead of Sweden when it comes to phasing out smoking, but notes that's largely due to smoking being almost nonexistent among women. For men the rate is 7%. WHO attributes Sweden's declining smoking rate to a combination of tobacco control measures, including information campaigns, advertising bans and "cessation support" for those wishing to quit tobacco. However, the agency noted that Sweden's tobacco use is at more than 20% of the adult population, similar to the global average, when you include snus and similar products. People enjoy drinks and snacks in the evening sun on a terrace overlooking Stockholm, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Smoking is prohibited in both indoor and outdoor areas of bars and restaurants in Sweden, which has the lowest share of smokers in the European Union. Credit: AP Photo/Karl Ritter A woman opens a box of tobacco-free white snus (snuff), in Stockholm. April 14, 2022. Sweden, which has the lowest rate of smoking in Europe is now close to declaring itself smoke free, defined as having less than 5% daily smokers in the population. Some experts give credit to decades of anti-smoking campaigns and legislation, while others point to the prevalence of snus, a smokeless tobacco product thats illegal elsewhere in the European Union but is marketed in Sweden as an alternative to cigarettes. Credit: Paul Wennerholm/TT News Agency via AP, File "Switching from one harmful product to another is not a solution," WHO said in an email. "Promoting a so-called 'harm reduction approach' to smoking is another way the tobacco industry is trying to mislead people about the inherently dangerous nature of these products." Tove Marina Sohlberg, a researcher at Stockholm University's Department of Public Health Sciences, said Sweden's anti-smoking policies have had the effect of stigmatizing smoking and smokers, pushing them away from public spaces into backyards and designated smoking areas. "We are sending signals to the smokers that this is not accepted by society," she said. Paul Monja, one of Stockholm's few remaining smokers, reflected on his habit while getting ready to light up. "It's an addiction, one that I aim to stop at some point," he said. "Maybe not today, perhaps tomorrow." 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Photo: Screenshot/ParlVU. NDP MP and natural resource critic Charlie Angus questions Paper Excellence executives at a parliamentary investigation Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Executives from Canadas largest forestry company told a parliamentary committee Tuesday it has no current links with Asia Pulp and Paper (APP), a global forestry giant that controls operations across Indonesia and China. The comments, made before the Standing Committee on Natural Resources as part of its investigation into Paper Excellence, didnt appear to satisfy some of the members of the committee. NDP MP and natural resources critic Charlie Angus gave notice that he would be filing a motion to issue a summons for Paper Excellence owner Jackson Wijaya to appear before the committee and answer questions over the companys ownership structure and business relations. I think that the solution would be that Mr. Wijaya should come testify before the committee, added Bloc Quebecois MP Mario Simard. And if he doesn't do that, well, we the elected officials and the media will be left with the same concerns in other words, who is the true owner of Paper Excellence? One of the Paper Excellence executives present said owner Jackson Wijaya hadnt attended the meeting due to extensive global business commitments. Parliamentary probe follows international investigation Government action to more closely scrutinize Paper Excellence came in late March after the publication of a months-long investigation conducted by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) including media partners Glacier Media, the CBC, the Halifax Examiner, Le Monde and Radio France into the companys overseas ties. That investigation revealed a nexus of links between Paper Excellence and Asia Pulp and Paper, a forestry and paper conglomerate environmental groups allege has been responsible for widespread deforestation, human rights abuses and conflicts with Indigenous communities. Both companies say they are independent of one another. With a headquarters listed in Richmond, B.C., Paper Excellence holds dozens of pulp and paper mills across Canada, the U.S., Brazil and France. In March, it closed its latest multi-billion-dollar acquisition of Resolute Forest Products, a deal that now gives the company control of over 22 million hectares of Canadian forests and makes Paper Excellence the largest forestry products company in North America. Derek Nighbor, president and CEO of Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC), cast doubt on the amount of land Paper Excellence manages in testimony before the committee Tuesday, even though his own organization confirmed the number to ICIJ media partners in February 2023. Today, @FPAC_APFC's president backed Paper Excellence's claim questioning "media reports" the company manages more than 22 million ha of forestland. His own organization gave us that number earlier this year? pic.twitter.com/1FzroOev5A Stefan Labbe (@StefanLabbe) May 31, 2023 Paper Excellence and APP linked as late as 2015, acknowledge executives Jean-Francois Guillot, CEO of Paper Excellence's French operations and two mills in Canada, initially acknowledged Paper Excellence and APP including the parent Sinar Mas Group run by Wijayas father were linked as late as 2020, but later said he misspoke and said ties ended in 2015. Guillot cast a trove of leaked emails, reported on by ICIJ members and dated two years later, as normal communications between the companys French operations and APP as a potential client. The contents of those emails, however, suggest few corporate barriers existed between Paper Excellence and APP at the time, with employees appearing to work together to guide an application to Chinese regulators during an attempted acquisition. When asked to explain why Canadas Inter-corporate registry shows links between Sinar Mas and Paper Excellence, Guillot said the company had tried to correct the error for the last 10 years. Emails obtained through freedom of information laws show Paper Excellence first approached Statistics Canada to change the registry in 2021. Canada's Standing Committee on Natural Resources met in Ottawa Tuesday in its first meeting investigating the business ties and ownership structure of Paper Excellence. Screenshot/ParlVU Glacier Medias investigation uncovered shipping records that show Paper Excellence has sold hundreds of thousands of tonnes of Canadian pulp to APP linked companies in what former employees described as a feeder for the Chinese machine. John Williams, non-executive chairman of the board for the Paper Excellence Group, testified that the company was not seeking to redirect Canadian pulp to feed Chinese and Indonesian mills. Do we have some agenda here to divert the product that we're selling into various markets into that Chinese market? That is absolutely not the case, he said. When asked about US$1.25 billion in credit provided to Paper Excellence by the China Development Bank a state-controlled lending institution Williams said the company had repaid the loan by 2020 and that no relationship with Chinese banks currently exist. Williams later added: We can be as transparent as you need us to be. Questions over jobs, 'foreign economic interference' Some MPs asked Paper Excellence executives how their presence in Canada would provide jobs. Paper Excellences chief operating officer Stu Gibson said the company employs more than 9,000 people across the country and is deeply committed to responsible environmental stewardship. We're trying to find out about ownership, responded Angus, drawing attention back to questions over who controls the company. Greenpeace Canada's Shane Moffat pointed to its own investigation released in October 2022, which relied on a vast pool of corporate filings to sketch out Paper Excellence's corporate ownership. Moffat said a filing submitted to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission indicated Paper Excellence is owned by Jackson Wijaya, but that that name could mean one of three things: A) Jackson Wijaya; B) family members of Jackson Wijaya; or C) trusts partnerships or limited liability companies for the benefit of a series of individuals. Is he an owner we never see who lives in Shanghai or Jakarta, or is Jackson a code word for the financial interests of a family that owns a global logging empire? Moffat said. I think the connection weve outlined to Sinar Mas in our investigation is undeniable. Paper Excellence's Northern Pulp mill in Nova Scotia, before it was shut down in 2020. Dr. Gerry Farrell Christian Leuprecht, a professor at the Royal Military College of Canada, said it appears Paper Excellence may have been and may still be in violation of Canadian law. He said he was concerned about who is behind the company and how fast it has expanded its share of the Canadian forestry industry. This case raises Canada's potential vulnerability to foreign economic interference and manipulation across a vast spectrum, Leuprecht said. If another business acquired 21 per cent of say the telecommunications media or airline business in Canada, and we had the sort of questions that we have here about financing and ownership structure, Canadians would be up in arms, especially in Quebec. Conservative natural resource critic Shannon Stubbs said she would be putting forward a motion to call on Liberal MP Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, to answer questions before the committee on Paper Excellence's ownership structure and business relations. Call for B.C. government investigation reaches minister The parliamentary probe in Ottawa is expected to continue to hear from witnesses Friday. Meanwhile, a parallel effort to investigate Paper Excellence in British Columbia has been delayed after a technicality forced its proponents to reassess a motion to examine the company. Earlier this month, president of the BC NDP warned members of a riding association their motion to investigate Paper Excellence would be ruled out of order because it didnt meet requirements laid out under the partys constitution. Rick Turner, president of the Kamloops-North Thompson BC NDP Electoral District Association, said he spoke with Premier David Eby over the weekend, and requested a meeting with Forestry Minister Bruce Ralston. I think were going to get a meeting with the minister, said Turner. Were looking for an investigation. Thats what were going to do. Malcolm Noonan TD, Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, has today announced a combined 2.7m in funding for local biodiversity projects. Over 2.5 million is being awarded to local authorities to carry out biodiversity projects through the Local Biodiversity Action Fund (LBAF) and 193k is being granted to the natural history recording community through the Small Recording Grants scheme. Local Biodiversity Action Fund Operated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the scheme was first launched in 2018. Since then, a total of just over 6m has been granted to local authorities through the LBAF for projects that support actions in the 3rd National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP). This years grants will build on that investment. Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD: Given that its Biodiversity Week, Im especially delighted to announce funding of over 2.5 million for 188 biodiversity projects. The Local Biodiversity Action Fund is an enormously impactful scheme that supports local authorities and communities to deliver on Irelands national objectives for nature, from invasive species to habitat restoration to awareness-raising to surveys and monitoring work. As more and more Biodiversity Officers join the ranks of our local authorities, I know that the benefits for nature and people that this Fund provides are only going to grow. A total of 188 projects have been approved across all 31 local authorities, covering a range of biodiversity-related activities, including invasive alien species control, dune restoration, wetland surveys and biodiversity awareness and training. Projects approved this year include: 8 local authorities joining together to monitor the Quagga mussel invasive species in the Shannon 3 local authorities supporting The Shannon Dolphin Project, which is 30 years old this year (2023) making it one of the longest dolphin studies in Europe Habitat mapping in Cork Development of an Invasive Alien Species Strategy for Galway City Council Installation of closed predator-proof fences at five key breeding wader sites in County Donegal Hedgerow survey in Kilkenny County Small Recording Grants A grant scheme providing support to Irelands natural history recording community is now in operation for a fifth year, with growing popularity and record numbers of applicants. The Small Recording Grant scheme, managed by the NPWS, aims to help established naturalists recording in Ireland to maintain and enhance their expertise in species identification, and to develop the next generation of natural history recorders. The Small Recording Grants scheme supports volunteers, groups, societies and associations of recorders who have limited or no access to financial supports for their work. 67 applicants have been notified of their funding allocations, at a combined total of 193k. The projects supported include: Dissection Masterclass for Determination of Species of Moths Dragonflies and Damselflies in County Tipperary Sponge Recording Project A Targeted Bioblitz Survey of Freshwater-Associated Taxa in the Burren Wexford Barn Owl Project The data generated by these recording exercises is utilised by the NPWS to inform its understanding of the distribution and ecology of many species and to assess their status. In turn, it informs advice on nature conservation objectives and practical measures to protect species and habitats. Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD: It is fantastic to be able to fund these local initiatives once again. In 2022, my Department funded 24 projects to the tune of 70,000. This year, we have significantly increased resources for this very worthwhile scheme, with 67 projects approved at a cost of 193,000 almost 3 times the projects and 3 times the funding. This scheme supports the work of the NPWS in recording many aspects of individual species that it would be almost impossible for my staff to carry out themselves. ENDS Notes for Editors A full list of the projects funded under the Local Biodiversity Action Fund 2023 can be viewed or downloaded on the Department website: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/aeb0e-local-biodiversity-action-fund-project-funding-2023/ TAMPA, Fla. When a hemp dispensary in this Florida city started to stock edibles with certain mushroom extracts last year, state regulators quickly ordered it to stop selling the items. The shop had been advertising fruit-flavored gummies and other products containing tiny doses of mood-altering chemicals from the mushroom Amanita muscaria. The red-capped, white-spotted fungus rooted in popular culture through the Super Mario Nintendo game franchise, The Smurfs, and Alices Adventures in Wonderland is legal for consumers to possess and eat in every state except Louisiana, according to a review of state laws. Products with the mushrooms extracts have cropped up at stores and online retailers from Florida to Minnesota and Nebraska to Pennsylvania. Businesses advertise a milder high compared with psilocybin, the Schedule 1 psychedelic that remains illegal at the national level, to people hoping to ease anxiety, depression, or joint pain. But federal officials and fungi experts have urged caution, and Florida regulators have clamped down on sales in at least five counties. Some uses of the mushroom and its chemicals have led to serious side effects, including delirium with sleepiness and coma, according to Courtney Rhodes, an FDA spokesperson. No human clinical trials have evaluated the products safety and effectiveness, said Heather Hallen-Adams, a faculty member at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, who researches fungi in food. Chillum, a hemp dispensary in the Ybor City neighborhood, stopped selling the edibles in December after regulators from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services ordered it to do so, calling A. muscaria a dangerous ingredient. The shop returned $30,000 worth of merchandise to Psilo Mart, a Las Vegas-area supplier that says it imports the mushroom from Lithuania. The agriculture department, which regulates shops that sell products like hemp vapes, then lifted its restrictions on the dispensary. Drew Gennuso, president of Psilo Mart, said he hasnt heard of any major issues with the edibles. Chillums owner, Carlos Hermida, said he believes the products are safe. Its so mild, he said of the funguss effects. Its not anything where youre going to smell the color purple. Hermida recently began selling the products again for between $20 and $55 but, attempting to avoid another state order, he said Chillum added labels warning they are solely for educational or spiritual purposes and not human consumption. Federal officials havent approved the fungus and its chemicals to be sold as food additives or to treat medical conditions. The Tampa case highlights the gaps in oversight of this nascent national market despite concerns from federal officials. The companies are moving faster than the research, said John Michelotti, who heads the medicinal mushrooms committee of the North American Mycological Association and founded Catskill Fungi, an upstate New York business that sells mushroom extracts. Its the wild West. The crackdown at Chillum began in October. The Florida agriculture department collected samples of products for lab testing. Returning in December, the agency said a Psilo Mart hemp joint with A. muscaria powder had elevated levels of toxic heavy metals, department records show. Hermida threw out his inventory of the mushroom joints, he said, and regulators ordered him to stop selling the other fungus products. They cited a state law that says food is adulterated if it bears or contains any poisonous or deleterious substance which may render it injurious to health. The gummies with the extracts elicit a feeling of being high and drunk, Hermida said, while the capsules cause a tingly body sensation and throw off depth perception. The mushroom is poisonous, though likely not fatal, and can be detoxified in boiling water. Consuming the raw fungus isnt the same as using low doses of its chemicals, Hermida maintained. The Florida Poison Information Center in Tampa gets one report a week, on average, of a hallucinogenic mushroom poisoning, but many callers dont explain what kind they ate, and doctors dont have a quick way to verify, said Alexandra Funk, its managing director. She said A. muscaria products should be kept away from children. In the Tampa Bay area, medical examiners havent recorded any recent deaths from the mushroom. Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital in St. Petersburg and local AdventHealth emergency rooms havent seen poisonings, according to spokespeople. But there appears to be a lack of routine testing for the fungus. The edibles sold at Chillum appealed to Antwan Towner, a 40-year-old Ybor City magician who said he struggles with anxiety. He eats half a gummy when having a bad day, he said, and it produces euphoria that lasts about four hours, then peace of mind for a week. He said he hasnt experienced a negative reaction or hallucinations. It was never about getting high, he said. It was just about trying something that may be effective. Theres a lot of anecdotal evidence that low doses of the mushroom may be useful therapeutically, said Hallen-Adams, who chairs the toxicology committee of the North American Mycological Association. But more data is needed to prove if it helps those with various medical conditions or if its simply a placebo, she said. Last year, a Canadian company said an independent group of scientists found that its A. muscaria extract was generally recognized as safe. The Toronto company, Psyched Wellness, conducted preclinical studies on its Calm extract, a sleep aid, said CEO Jeffrey Stevens. Other businesses, Stevens said, havent invested in such research. We have so many cowboys right now who are just saying, Oh, this is a legal psychedelic mushroom, lets just put product into the market. Since early February, Florida regulators have cited five businesses in Daytona Beach, Largo, Plant City, Tallahassee, and Tamarac for selling merchandise containing A. muscaria, according to state agriculture department records. Because federal officials havent approved the mushroom to be used in food, the Florida agency orders businesses to stop selling these products when its inspectors find them, Aaron Keller, a spokesperson for the state agriculture department, wrote in an email. In this emerging market with many unknowns, Hallen-Adams urged consumers to be careful if this is something youre going to experiment with. Under Chillums new labeling, consuming the edibles it sells is an abuse of product, Hermida said. If you want to study it, or if you want to pray to it, thats fine with me. This article was produced in partnership with the Tampa Bay Times. KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about KFF. USE OUR CONTENT This story can be republished for free (details). The Jeannette Rankin Foundation has awarded grants to 51 Indigenous women attending Montana tribal colleges. The Native Woman Scholar Grant program launched earlier this year and provides $2,500 unrestricted education grants to Native women. Grants this year total $127,500. Every reservation in Montana has a tribal college, which offer various two- and four-year degrees. The grants are awarded directly to students and aim to ease financial burdens associated with pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree. Sandra Boham, president of Salish Kootenai College, said education "empowers (Native) women to achieve economic independence, build self confidence and allow for the integration of Indigenous knowledge, culture and language into all aspects of the workplaces and organizations in the communities where they live." Several grant recipients said the funds will help them achieve their educational and career goals. Sara Meyers, who is pursuing an associate's degree in Native Language education at Salish Kootenai College, said she wants to be part of the "revival of our Salish language." "With my education, I aim to be a Salish language teacher and encourage others to get their education, be rooted in their culture and serve the community," she said. Morgan Harrison-Woolf, a student at Blackfeet Community College, said as a mother, stroke survivor and student, "I am thrilled to keep pushing forward and continue facing the odds. I hope to be fully independent again and find a position within my community." Cheyenne Robinson, a student at Little Big Horn College on the Crow Reservation, is pursuing a degree in business marketing. "I plan to use my degree to run a nonprofit I've founded to help encourage, inspire and protect our community while bringing awareness to missing and murdered Indigenous people," she said. The Rankin Foundation will accept applications for its second round of Native Woman Scholar Grants in November 2023. The foundation was founded in 1976 to honor Jeannette Rankin, who was the first U.S. Congresswoman and first woman to hold federal office. For more information, visit rankinfoundation.org. The Western Montana Mental Health Center has recently implemented some fairly drastic changes. That includes ousting its chief executive officer Levi Anderson, hiring a transition management company, ending its involvement with the Flagship afterschool program for Missoula kids and transitioning the Recovery Center into a different treatment model. The nonprofit is headquartered in Missoula and operates in 15 counties, providing a range of addiction-treatment and behavioral health services. Jean Curtiss, the chair of the nonprofits board of directors and a former Missoula County commissioner, said that the board decided not to renew Andersons contract. Levi Anderson has been CEO for five years and he is leaving, she explained. The organization is searching for a new CEO, she said. For the interim, theyve brought on Cascadia Management Group of Missoula to manage the organization. Weve hired Cascadia to help us through thats their expertise, Curtiss said. Our leaders changing, our top leader, but the leadership team is strong, the staff is strong. Weve got great employees. The president of that management company, Colleen Rudio, will serve as the interim executive administrator. She said her company has worked with many nonprofit groups in town, including Home Resource, the YMCA and others. We look at this as a very standard and common practice, Rudio said. Levi was a great leader and accomplished a lot for this organization. However, Rudio said that Westerns board was in agreement with Levi that a different style of leadership was needed for the markets they serve and where the organization needs to focus its attention. The company will assist them in the hiring process. Well provide the board with our thoughts for their consideration, she said. Both Rudio and Curtiss insisted that the change will not affect patient care. Absolutely not, Curtiss said. As a matter of fact, were using this time to better utilize our resources, better serve clients and patients. Levi had been moving toward a couple great decisions, fulfilling some care for male-specific crisis support and we need to make that transition. There will absolutely be no service declination. The organization is changing the model at its Recovery Center, which is a 16-bed, 30-day inpatient treatment program for men and women struggling with alcohol and substance use. Curtiss said that model is very hard to pencil out, so, theyre transitioning it to a group home for men. Rudio said the change is in response to changing community needs. Theres a lot of need in the community, theres needs in every one of the communities we serve, and some get more attention than others, she said. We focus on what the actual need in the community we can most positively impact. We can maintain a 16-unit facility that we dont have a waiting list on and at times not even a total census. Or we can convert the facility to make it more usable for a service area that has a waiting list and always has a waiting list. That does not mean that we turn away people. The people that were in the old Recovery Center program will continue to the end of their 30-day treatment, Curtiss noted. Were just not taking any more in, she said. Were working with partners to know where (women with addiction treatment needs) could go to get that service in another facility. Weve started discussions internally and with Colleen now about women care and female care and what role we can serve. Those are active conversations. The organization is in the process of remodeling its River House day treatment center into an ambulatory crisis receiving center, where people experiencing a crisis can stay for 24 hours to get evaluated and get treatment. Were partnering with St. Patrick Hospital and a lot of people on that, Curtiss said. The Flagship afterschool program in Missoula has utilized Western Montana Mental Health Center as its umbrella partnership organization for many years. Curtiss and Rudio said that partnership is ending and that kids are now taking part in afterschool programs with the city. Flagship has been around a long time, Curtiss explained. The big challenge is that the school districts are changing the way they serve the community. The Missoula school districts new strategic plan is to partner with the city Parks and Recreation Department. Its always hard to lose something that you recognize and have worked with for a long time. We have had conversations with other partners to fill some gaps in Flagship programming, Rudio said. We may or may not be a part of that. Flagship was a community-based service. Change is the only thing we know to be consistent. Our focus is making sure kiddos and adults are served, but the time for us to be involved in Flagship is sunsetting. We want to make sure that occurs in a very involved and caring way. Curtiss said Western Montana Mental Health Center recently received a federal grant and a state grant to develop a certified behavioral health model. Anderson could not be reached for comment Wednesday. In early March, Anderson went to Helena to advocate for a bill that would have increased the Medicaid provider rates to facilities like his that provide mental health services to people in crisis. "One week ago today, I sent a letter to our partners across the state, notifying them that we had to close 31 community-based mental health crisis stabilization beds," Anderson told a House committee. "That represents 65% of the capacity in the entire state for that service. And that is a direct result of a lack of funding for those services." The bill he was supporting, HB 649, was voted down in the Senate in April. Wildlife officials are seeking information after a grizzly bear was shot and killed near Noxon. Montana's Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks announced Tuesday that a grizzly bear was found dead on May 24 around the South Fork of Bull River near Berray Mountain and Berray Mountain Road (Forest Road 2272) north of Noxon. Officials determined that the bear, which has a tracking collar, was shot and killed the evening of May 16. The bear was not known to have been involved in any conflicts. That would likely put the grizzly in the Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem, one of the least-populated grizzly bear recovery areas overseen by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee. Grizzlies have threatened status under the Endangered Species Act and may not be killed or harassed without federal authorization. The Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem has approximately 50 grizzlies, compared with the nearly 1,000 grizzlies in the Greater Yellowstone and Northern Continental Divide ecosystem recovery areas. Grizzly bears in the Lower 48 states have been listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act since 1975. Killing a grizzly bear is generally allowed only for wildlife management purposes conducted by wildlife officials, such as euthanizing sick bears or habitual conflict bears, or when done in self-defense. FWP is seeking information about the killing and solicited anonymous tips with possible rewards. "Wildlife crimes like this one are often solved because of leads provided by the public," the agency stated. "Anyone with information is encouraged to call 1-800-TIP-MONT (1-800-847-6668). Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward for information leading to a conviction." The deposit also contains lanthanum, cerium, europium, gallium, niobium, yttrium, scandium, dysprosium, strontium and gadolinium, according to the company. The elements are often found in conjunction with thorium, a radioactive element. U.S. Critical Materials states that there's not enough thorium at Sheep Creek to require permitting from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The site along Sheep Creek, a tributary to the West Fork Bitterroot River just north of the Idaho-Montana state line, sits about 13 miles south of Painted Rocks State Park and about 36 miles south of Darby. Ed Cowle, director of U.S. Critical Materials, said in a March 8 interview that the company is also exploring a separate, unspecified location in Montana for rare-earth deposits a place that so far had "not come on the radar" of other companies. As of March 8, he said, the company planned to stake claims in that area this spring. "Itll be in Montana but itll not be where we are," he said, referring to the company's existing Sheep Creek claims. The continued exploration at Sheep Creek comes as the federal government is pushing to increase domestic production of elements that power the so-called "green economy" of renewable energy and electric vehicles. U.S. Critical Materials touts the 9% total rare-earth oxide composition of the Sheep Creek deposit as the richest such deposit in the U.S. with a multibillion-dollar value. Cowle said 1015 people would be employed this summer, but wasn't sure how many people a possible future mine might employ. "The high-grade rare-earth indications together with the low thorium readings are a unique combination," James Hedrick, the company's president, said in a statement. "I believe that U.S. Critical Materials Corp. has the potential to be a top U.S. rare-earth producer." Some local environmental groups and residents are wary of the environmental impacts of a mine. People concerned about the project have questioned how mining and ore processing will be conducted, and wondered whether the Sheep Creek deposit contains the same form of asbestos that killed hundreds of people in Libby and contaminated the landscape. Rare-earth mining typically involves excavation of ore-bearing earth followed by chemical leaching in on-site ponds, or by pumping leaching chemicals through pipes directly into the ore beds. "Both methods produce mountains of toxic waste, with high risk of environmental and health hazards," according to a Harvard International Review report. "For every ton of rare earth produced, the mining process yields 13kg of dust, 9,600-12,000 cubic meters of waste gas, 75 cubic meters of wastewater, and one ton of radioactive residue. This stems from the fact that rare earth element ores have metals that, when mixed with leaching pond chemicals, contaminate air, water, and soil." Grizzly bear researcher and consultant Mike Bader and groups including Friends of the Bitterroot have expressed concern about the impacts of a mining operation amid overlapping conservation concerns. The Sheep Creek site sits at the headwaters of the West Fork Bitterroot River, which is critical habitat for endangered bull trout. The site is adjacent to the Bluejoint Wilderness Study Area and it partially overlaps the Allan Mountain Inventoried Roadless Area. And, they say, the location is critical for facilitating connectivity for grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem and Bitterroot Ecosystem. Bader wrote in a March 23 guest column in the Missoulian that Sheep Creek is "about the worst place for extensive mining operations." "The Bitterroot National Forest and USCMC must realize they will be held to the highest possible scrutiny on every aspect of this process," he wrote. "Fast-tracking is unacceptable, even for 'green energy' projects." The construction of the Montana Museum of Art and Cultures new home has been making steady progress on the north end of the University of Montana campus, with the curving exterior taking shape. The building will be transformative, said Rafael Chacon, the museums director. This institution has suffered for so long from a lack of identity because people dont know where its located. Theres no architectural piece that they can anchor their notions of where this museum is, and so that its going to change the profile substantially. Until now, the collection of some 12,000 objects has been held in storage and exhibited as needed in the two galleries in the PAR/TV Building. Besides the limitations on space, the fact that it didnt have a dedicated facility of its own hampered its visibility to the public. Once completed, the footprint of the building will be significantly smaller than the job site the total loss of parking is about 23 spaces. The building, designed by A&E Design, is 17,000 square feet, including the unfinished basement. Above ground, its 11,000 square feet. The construction cost is $11.5 million, and Chacon said theyve been on target thus far. The museum is on track to open in September during homecoming weekend. The first two years will be focused on exhibiting the permanent collection, allowing people from around the state or region the opportunity to visit. The custom-designed structure needed to meet the needs of the museum and its collection. We could not have simply bought a plan and plopped it down. This has to be organically tied to what we do and the mission and the collection that we have. The design is noticeably modern, as well. We love this location, it allows the building to be truly three-dimensional, it's interesting from all sides, Chacon said. The building has plenty of curves and avoids a stack of boxes look. Chacon said Terry Payne, a lead donor with his wife, Patt, suggested the idea. First floor There are four exhibition spaces total, plus room in the basement to show work. The entrance walls have bricks off-set at angles in a fish-scale pattern. It's not just for the play of the sun. It's also to signal that something good is happening over here, he said. In the lobby, a glass wall will separate a storage room but leave it visible to the public when they enter from the south, so that they can see employees at work. The concept is, rather than tucking the collection away in the basement or hiding the functions of the museum behind closed doors, its all going to be visible, he said. Behind that area, there will be a large space for 2D storage including flat files. Theres room for staff to hang paintings, photographs or drawings on the wall as they work. The area will be accessible to the public through classes. This area can also accommodate sculpture storage, although the larger works will be in the basement. A separate room will be dedicated to painting storage, with natural light so the work can be studied. We'll actually be able to see the paintings as they were meant to be viewed, he said. Taking a page from the Guggenheim, the design includes a circular rotunda that carries forth from the bottom all the way to the top, he said. On the ground floor, the circular space can function as a gallery, large classroom or small lecture hall. For exhibition purposes, its a rare spot in Missoula for showing artwork in the round. The swankiest element could be the grand staircase, which wraps around from the top floor to the basement. Downstairs, they have room for classes of kids to drop their lunches and backpacks, coats, etc. Chacon is particularly excited about a feature that sounds mundane at first: the basement has a large, climate-controlled storage room, roughly double the size of its current one. Its flexible, too, so it can be used however they like in the future. Whatever the museum needs in the future, this is where its going to take place, he said. The basement of the rotunda will work as an education space. This floor has room for the Anthropology Department to use for its collections. This room will allow them to look at adding more paintings and ceramics to their holdings. Now we can envision adding to the collection in ways that we couldnt before, he said. After bringing three candidates to Missoula for interviews, the museum hasnt yet hired a curator although Chacon said theyd like to hire one within a year. Chacon said they are going to hire a collections manager, though. During the first phase, theyre moving 400 pieces, then slowly transferring the rest in a systematic fashion. Upstairs As you head up the staircase, the curving design leads you along through the exhibition spaces without needing much in the way of guidance. If this were all boxes, youd be looking for signs and arrows to tell you where to go, he said. The upstairs rotunda gallery has a higher ceiling, with entrances on each of the four cardinal directions. Sliding partitions allow them to close off entryways for a completely hermetic gallery for an intimate exhibition. The top floor is also home to the main gallery, which boasts high ceilings and indirect light he said they wanted windows so that people have situational awareness. He said many museums are so large its easy to lose a sense of where you are. The east side of the building has a lattice design, the north end has a terrace with a view of the North Hills and Mount Jumbo. We have such beautiful nature around us, we wanted that somehow incorporated into the design of the building, he said. The gallery can hold larger sculpture, or salon-style shows with work hanging floor to ceiling. Theyll have the option of temporary walls to subdivide the space as needed. The building is so much more flexible than anything weve ever had on this campus, he said. A group of delegates to Montanas 1972 constitutional convention and other activists are challenging a raft of fresh restrictions on the citizen initiative process recently enacted by the Legislature. In a complaint filed May 26 in Lewis and Clark County District Court, the plaintiffs ask the court to strike down Senate Bill 93 and other statutes that add to the processes for citizens to propose new laws and constitutional amendments as ballot initiatives. The right of citizens to make policy through direct action, rather than through their elected representatives, is outlined in the Montana Constitution. Those citizen initiatives have long been subject to minimum signature requirements to reach the ballot, and the constitution states they cant appropriate money. SB 93 requires that those proposing a ballot initiative first pay a nonrefundable $3,700 filing fee, regardless of whether they get enough signatures to get on the ballot. It also forbids citizens from proposing a similar referendum more often than once every four years. The legislation built on a 2021 law that also created several new steps in the citizen initiative process, and is also being challenged by the lawsuit. Those changes add to initiative petitions a statement from the Attorney General's office on potential harm to business interests, a 50-word statement on the proposals estimated fiscal impact and a tally of an interim legislative committee's vote on whether the initiative should end up on the ballot. The Montana Constitution does not provide the AG, the Legislature, the (Secretary of State) or any entity of government with the power to interfere with the peoples power to write the initiative, including the language of the petition to place the initiative on the ballot, the complaint states. Constitutional convention delegates Mae Nan Ellington, Jerome Loendorf and Arlyne Reichert are among the plaintiffs in the case. It also includes several former Montana officeholders and activists with a history of working on ballot initiatives. They're being represented by John Meyer with the Cottonwood Environmental Law Center. It names as defendants Gov. Greg Gianforte, Attorney General Austin Knudsen and Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen, all of whom are Republicans. The plaintiffs allege that the new restrictions violate provisions in the state constitution that establish the extent of the Legislatures power and lay out the processes for proposing initiatives, referendums and constitutional conventions. SB 93 cleared the Legislature earlier this year with nearly all Republicans in support, and all but one Democratic lawmaker voting against it. It was signed into law by Gianforte earlier this month. Democrats and other opponents of the bill argued it was being pushed by special interests who already control the legislative process and want to limit the citizen initiative process. The original bill emerged as a bipartisan effort crafted during the interim, but was overhauled by an amendment that had input from the Montana Chamber of Commerce and other groups, according to bill sponsor Sen. Mike Cuffe. Those changes included the $3,700 filing fee, expansions of the review process and restrictions on how often a similar measure can be proposed. Cuffe, a Republican from Eureka, had argued that the filing fee and restrictions were necessary to compensate the use of state resources and allow a more deliberative approach to the initiative process. "Thats what we spend on average, on the low end of average, when a ballot initiative comes forward," Cuffe said, referring to agency staff time. "And so many ballot initiatives, theyre not well-vetted like legislation on the floor is. Theyre 20-second commercials." Business groups who supported the amended version of SB 93 argued that the citizen initiative process makes it too easy to target certain industries. Organizations like ours are oftentimes expected to cough up tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of dollars to buy TV commercials to settle public policy matters that really should be in front of this body, Cary Hegreberg, president of the Montana Bankers Association, told a House committee in March. ... Ballot measures should be difficult to get on the ballot, because its too simple a way to make law. The plaintiffs also allege that the changes add weeks of additional time to the process of getting a petition onto the ballot, without changing the deadline for proponents to reach the signature threshold for initiative petitions. Along with the ability to accept or reject proposed language to put on the ballot, the laws give exclusive control of the initiative process to government agencies to run down the clock, it states. The complaint is currently before District Court Judge Kathy Seeley. Spokespeople for Knudsen and Jacobsen said Tuesday they hadnt been served with the complaint. The governor's office declined to comment. BOZEMAN Growing up on a guest ranch near Emigrant meant that Cayden Rose had no doubts about his career aspirations when he arrived at Montana State University in 2019. Now a graduating senior from the College of Agricultures Dan Scott Ranch Management Program, hes confident he made the right choice. It was a perfect fit, said Rose of the new degree program, which was introduced during the 2019-20 academic year and graduated its first student in December 2021. I was excited about it when it came along. Rose was majoring in rangeland ecology at the time the new program debuted and was immediately intrigued by the Dan Scott programs ranching systems degree, which is housed in the Department of Animal and Range Sciences. Students apply for the program during their sophomore year and study everything from business communications and economics to natural resource conservation and animal production.They also complete a two-summer internship at a working ranch in Montana, applying their classroom studies in a hands-on fashion. The goal of the new program is to create well-rounded and well-prepared ranch managers, said director Rachel Frost. Todays ranch managers have to be versed in much more than livestock husbandry, said Frost. They have to track finances, expand market potential, deal with personnel issues and work with a variety of conservation partners and government agencies. Preparing a person for that diverse of a job requires a unique approach to education, which is what the Dan Scott Ranch Management Program provides. Rose is a member of the Dan Scott programs second graduating class and said the experience has been beneficial on several levels. He particularly notes his internship as a highlight. During the summers of 2021 and 2022, he worked on a cattle ranch outside of Twin Bridges, doing everything from driving cattle to implementing his own research for the ranchs benefit. The project I worked on was looking into switching their calving season from spring to fall and looking at, economically, which one was more viable and a better fit their resources, said Rose. I cant say enough about it. I learned more than I would have doing anything else. You learn the tools in college, but it was nice to be able to apply it somewhere and make that bridge. Rose said that during his internship, he found new avenues for answering questions. He was able to see the tangible results of management changes in a way that took theoretical knowledge and made it visible. He later had the chance to present his research on calving for other producers and industry experts at the Montana Nutrition Conference and Livestock Forum. During his second summer on the ranch, he implemented an intensive grazing program and was gratified to see results such as increased daily gain in cattle and faster regrowth of forage in their pastures. While Rose came to college with a background in ranching, elements of the ranching systems curriculum were new to him in a way that sparked his curiosity. As the agricultural industry changes and modernizes, he said the program has helped him prepare to be a multifaceted ranch manager, which he hopes will benefit the people, animals and natural resources that intersect in ranching. I think the thing that intrigued me about the Dan Scott program was the diversity of the courses that were offered, Rose said. All the different tools that you need to be able to successfully manage a ranch. Youre not just a steward of the land. Youre a businessman, youre an accountant, youre an animal scientist and everything else. It really does take everything and combine it all into one program, and that really drew me. Frost says that Rose has been a stellar example of why the program was created in the first place: to train a generation of ranchers and producers who are prepared to integrate science, business, conservation and production into continued success for one of Montanas largest industries and the communities it supports. Cayden is one of those students who asks the right questions, Frost said. He is always looking for ways to add to his knowledge and apply what he has learned. With that mindset, I have no doubt that he will grow into an exceptional ranch manager. Rose graduated earlier this month with a degree in ranching systems and a minor in his original area of study, rangeland ecology. He said he is ready and driven to join the workforce as a new ranch manager. I feel well prepared. Obviously, I still have a lot to learn, and I hope I never quit learning, he said. The connections Ive made through college have been the highlight, whether it be through academics or just personally, its been the best years of my life. Ive so enjoyed it. Without it, I wouldnt have made any of those connections. More Tibetan antelopes migrate to Hoh Xil to give birth Xinhua) 08:47, May 31, 2023 Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) XINING, May 30 (Xinhua) -- A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. On Monday morning, a group of nearly 50 Tibetan antelopes was seen gathering by the side of the road at a section of the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. As a precautionary measure, the staff of the nature reserve implemented temporary traffic control to ensure safety. Once the leading antelope carefully assessed the safety of the surroundings, the entire flock swiftly crossed the road and proceeded towards the vast hinterland of Hoh Xil. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. "As weather conditions improved, there has been an uptick in the number of Tibetan antelopes crossing the highway to Zonag Lake in Hoh Xil," said Gyaom Dorge, a staffer with the Wudaoliang protection station of the Hoh Xil management bureau. Over 1,000 Tibetan antelopes have traversed the vicinity near the station en route to Hoh Xil since this year's migration began on April 26, nine days earlier than last year. Patrolling and monitoring along the migration route have been stepped up to ensure the species reach their breeding spots undisturbed. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. A Tibetan antelope is seen in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes prepare to move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Xue Yubin) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes head for the Zonag Lake in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Xue Yubin) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Xue Yubin) Tibetan antelopes are seen in Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) A Tibetan antelope is seen in Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes head for the Zonag Lake in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in snow in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes are seen in Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Pan Binbin/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Photo: Castanet Construction on a residential development in Kamloops. The B.C. government has selected the first group of municipalities to receive housing targets in order to spur residential construction, which includes the City of Kamloops the only Interior municipality on the list. In a news release, the provincial ministry of housing said these housing targets are being set for municipalities with the highest projected growth and the greatest need. The ministry said targets will encourage local governments to address barriers to construction so housing can be built faster, including updating zoning bylaws and streamlining approval processes. Our government is eager to work with this first cohort of municipalities to get shovels in the ground faster and ensure the homes people need get built, said Ravi Kahlon, minister of housing, in a statement. The province said it selected 10 municipalities using an objective, data-based process with the help of economists and other experts. Along with Kamloops, other selected municipalities include Abbotsford, Delta, North Vancouver, Oak Bay, Port Moody, Saanich, Vancouver, Victoria and West Vancouver. Kamloops Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson said he doesnt currently have details around timelines or how much more housing Kamloops will need to build, and he wasnt sure why Kamloops was chosen. I want to know more about it, he said, adding he hopes the initiative will result a wide spectrum of housing, and will have a positive impact on the city. During a council meeting on Tuesday, councillors voted 5-3 in favour of a motion put forward by Coun. Nancy Bepple, which recommended sending a letter to the province requesting the City of Kamloops maintain responsibility for its land use decisions. Hamer-Jackson, who briefly left council to speak with Kahlon before this motion was discussed, recused himself from the vote due to a conflict of interest but didnt say why at that time. In the meeting, it kind of made me think different than what I was thinking before the meeting. So I felt, I dont know if Id say conflicted, but it changed my thinking a little bit, Hamer-Jackson said. Its unclear if council will continue to move forward with sending the letter in light of the provincial governments housing targets announcement. City of Kamloops CAO David Trawin said the province will be meeting with city staff to find out more about what this means for Kamloops. Our concern is, what does it mean, if we don't hit the targets? Are the targets going to be reasonable? And if its something outside of our control that stops us from hitting the targets, what does that mean to the city? Trawin said. He said municipalities dont build housing, so while the city can cut red tape, it has no control over developers, or the amount of trade workers available to build new homes. He noted much of the land left to be developed in Kamloops is held by a few landowners who can control what happens on their land. He also said there are concerns around capacity for schools and other services. Trawin noted the City of Kamloops is already moving towards a digital system for building permits and council has approved zoning changes allowing for gentle density in some areas of the city. If we have the targets in place, does that allow us to be a front runner in terms of accessing grants with BC Housing? All those types of questions we need to answer. It's very preliminary at this stage, Trawin said, adding housing is a key priority for council. Ryan Smith, City of Kelownas planning director, commented on the provinces decision to leave Kelowna out of the first housing target cohort. There are communities that approve a lot of housing and communities that dont approve a lot of housing in that group, Smith said. I know we are a good performer in terms of housing supply across the spectrum, but there are others that obviously arent. Something like this doesnt scare us, and well do what we do regardless of whether were on the list or not. Smith said the City of Kelowna will be working on its own housing targets, and will be watching as the province intends to add multiple intakes to the housing target program. Were not in the first cohort, but it doesnt mean we wont be in the second or third, so we should be ready. We are going to have all the information and it makes sense to start tracking it. The province said it will consult with selected municipalities and set final housing targets over the summer. Once targets are set, the province says it will monitor progress and work with municipalities to address any barriers, and will accelerate its own permitting processes across ministries. A second group of eight to 10 municipalities will be chosen and notified in late 2023. -With files from Wayne Moore The American Buffalo, Ken Burns upcoming documentary, took four years to produce, but the idea behind it can be traced back more than 30 years. Burns recently found an earlier version of a proposal for a film about bison in his files. It had been written in the mid-1990s and in discussion since the late 1980s. The legendary filmmaker, known for his sweeping, multi-part historical documentaries, says sometimes a film idea gets a green light right away and rolls out over a relatively short time. But the story of the bison and its role in American history sat on the back burner while Burns made a slew of other big films. And Im now beginning to think that I needed this time we needed this time to do this, he said in an interview with Montana Free Press. To finish Lewis & Clark, to do The National Parks, to do The Dust Bowl, to do all the other projects weve done, and to finally come around to telling this story. The American Buffalo is a two-part, four-hour series that will premiere on PBS in October, although Burns will be in Missoula for a free preview June 8. It was written by Dayton Duncan, who wrote Dust Bowl and other Burns documentaries, and produced by Julie Dunfey, who produced Country Music, among others. Much of it was shot in Montana, and the film features scores of interviews with Montana historians. It takes viewers through 10,000 years of North American history to chronicle the iconic creature and the events and people that impacted it. The film pays particular attention to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when bison were brought to near extinction and then, incredibly, revived. Classic western characters make appearances Buffalo Bill Cody, for instance and familiar ground is covered, but the film is notably centered on Indigenous experiences, focusing on bison's inextricable link to Indigenous people of North America for thousands of years and what happened when that link was attacked. Much of that story is told from Indigenous perspectives, through interviews with scholars, tribal leaders and land experts who provide worldviews and knowledge that disrupt the classic narrative. Weve spent a long time absolutely certain that only one perspective ever mattered, Burns says. Even if it was sympathetic to other perspectives, it nonetheless had its own kind of tyranny. And at this point, we just have to stop and learn from other people. When MTFP caught up with Burns, he had just come from working on the films audio mix. Rewatching it had him amped up. Its occupying every inch of my consciousness, he said. Even though he knows every inch of it, he continues to find the reality of the story jarring. One thing that stuck in my craw today, Burns says, was something (retired University of Montana history professor) Dan Flores says (in his interview) about this being the biggest slaughter of animals in the history of the world. Not just obviously the buffalo, but the elk and the antelope and the wolf and the coyote and the, you know, everything. And thats stunning, if you think about it. Burns calls The American Buffalo a three-act story. The first act establishes how integrated the bison and Indigenous people were with their landscape. Babies were swaddled in buffalo robes, and when they became old and died, they were swaddled in them again. By the end of the act, when the decimation of bison devastated those complex spiritual and ecological connections, the film leans into the true horror of it. Rotting carcasses and bones being picked over illustrate the grotesque waste. But the pain of it all is especially relayed through the Indigenous interviews woven into the film that reveal the trauma of it in such a personal way. In one interview, Rosalyn LaPier, a Blackfeet and Metis writer, environmental historian and ethnobotanist who taught at UMs Environmental Studies Program, explains the wallows topographic depressions where bison bathed and drank. Wallows served animals on the prairie, but also hosted the growth of medicinal plants. When bison were nearly killed off, unused wallows no longer grew those plants. But The American Buffalo is meant to be a story of hope, and the second act seeks to tell the story of a diverse set of people each with their own motives and imperfections trying to bring the bison herds back. And the third act is that big question, like, what are we going to do now? Burns says. Yeah, the buffalo is saved, but you know, wheres the ecosystem that supports them? Right? If theyre standing in feedlots, being fattened. If theyre just in protected lands. If The American Buffalo had been made 30 years ago, it could not have documented some of the triumphs bison and Indigenous peoples have recently experienced. In 2020, the National Bison Range established in 1908 by the federal government on the Flathead Indian Reservation without tribal consent was restored to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Now called the Bison Range, the 18,000 acres of undeveloped land is home to 350 bison and counting. Germaine White, information and education specialist with the CSKT, was interviewed for the film. She told MTFP the documentary tells an important story that many people even those who grew up in Montana just a few hours from the bison range dont fully comprehend. I think the story of bison is one of the most compelling and heartbreaking stories of wildlife in the entirety of American history, she said. And I think that the extraordinary, extraordinary efforts that are being made at this point to restore bison herds it has made me incredibly hopeful for Indigenous people. Restoring bison and bison numbers to the plains is a huge effort in restoring a balance to the natural world in a way that we dont yet even fully understand. For White, the film also holds some hope for the countrys tradition of storytelling about the West. Getting to the core of painful stories, she notes, can pave the way toward restorative solutions. Its like with Nazi Germany, she says. What was so incredibly courageous of Germany after World War II is they owned it. I dont know that this country has ever truly faced our history. Its a very dark history, and I dont know that the systematic genocide, land theft, and then subsequent efforts at erasure are a story thats as widely told. But I think that this is a time where people understand its important to tell the complexity of our history. All of it. Burns agrees. Its about accepting that something and the opposite of a thing as Wynton Marsalis said to me in our jazz series could be true at the same time, he says. And thats life. I mean, thats the genius of Shakespeare. Thats the best poetry, thats the best films. Theyre all complicated and filled with undertow and contradiction. And thats how you tell its a good story. Stories distinguish themselves because theyre not arguments. Thats all we do now is argue. Right? And the novelist Richard Powers said that the best arguments in the world wont change a persons point of view. The only thing that can do that is a good story. Burns made his 1996 documentary The West with a certain determination to avoid buying into the fables and white-man mythologies of gunslingers and bandits. He wanted to dig deeper. But telling stories better sometimes requires filmmakers to evolve with the times as the culture is changing. There is now a greater push to center Indigenous voices in art and education, not just a seat at the table but a leading role. Burns says foregrounding the perspectives people like White and LaPier, who understand the story on a more personal, ancestral level, gave the filmmaking more depth. The films third act, which includes commentary from land expert George Horse Capture Jr., Aaniiih, is an invitation to viewers to entertain a set of values about land, economy, ecology and even storytelling itself. I love the West, and I love the buffalo, Burns says. And I love to try to tell stories. But I think maybe if I had to boil it down how I feel about it its in George Horse Capture Jrs attitude. What he says flies in the face of Manifest Destiny. And he just helps arrest the kind of arrogant momentum of my accumulated knowledge and dissolves it on the spot. What youre left with is a kind of peaceful silence that comes from him asking you to see things from a different perspective. A preview of the film hosted by Montana PBS will screen at the Wilma Theater in Missoula on Thursday, June 8. The event includes a panel discussion with Ken Burns, writer Dayton Duncan, producer Julie Dunfey, historian Rosalyn LaPier and National Wildlife Federation-Tribal Buffalo Program Senior Manager Jason Baldes. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the event free to the public starts at 7 p.m. Its easy to understand why bear enthusiasts spent weeks crowding roadsides in Grand Teton National Park as they waited to catch a glimpse of Grizzly 399. The worlds oldest mama bear beat the odds when she emerged from the woods and crossed North Park Road with a brand-new cub in tow earlier this month. The 27-year-old bruin has survived to propagate roughly two dozen cubs and grandcubs, and shes benefited from strong protections under federal law. But the safeguards that have served Grizzly 399 so well are in danger of being removed. This would be a tragedy for grizzlies and everyone who cares about their wellbeing. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is considering removing Endangered Species Act protections from grizzlies in the Greater Yellowstone and Northern Continental Divide ecosystems, endangering bears that live just outside Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Glacier National Parks. The bears are currently protected as threatened, offering them a number of safeguards as an imperiled species. And despite some positive signs of population growth, grizzlies remain in danger. Grizzly bears were nearly eradicated over the past 200 years as settlers, motivated by fear and profit, systemically massacred them. By the time the bears in the lower 48 states were protected under the Endangered Species Act in 1975, theyd nearly been wiped out. Today they survive in only about 6% of their historic range and continue to face a number of threats, including habitat loss and poaching. The Endangered Species Act is the strongest safeguard protecting grizzlies, and theres evidence to prove it. When grizzly bears temporarily lost federal protection in 2017, Wyoming and Idaho both rushed to approve trophy hunts. Wyoming had approved the killing of up to 13 female grizzly bears before successful litigation by the Center for Biological Diversity, where I work, and others halted the hunts. Hunting is an especially dire threat for grizzlies since they reproduce so slowly. They start reproduction at a late age, have small average litters and experience a long interval between litters. And grizzly mothers are already in danger in Wyomings Bridger-Teton National Forest, near Yellowstone National Park, where a federal plan would allow up to 72 grizzlies to be killed on behalf of the livestock industry. The plan doesnt include any limits on how many mother bears could be slaughtered. We challenged it in court, and on May 25 the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals sided with us and told the Fish and Wildlife Service that authorizing the plan without considering a limit on how many females can be killed was illegal. The agency must now go back and redo their careless analysis. All of us owe it to Grizzly 399 and her surviving offspring to get this right. Grizzlies are an integral part of the Wests landscape. We need them to keep ecosystems healthy and thriving, just like they need our protections. But beyond that, Wyoming and Montana would be bleaker, less wild places if we allowed bears like Grizzly 399 to be hunted down. We will push the Fish and Wildlife Service to do the right thing and maintain federal protection for these majestic bears. With the passage of SB 178 this past legislative session, Montana has taken a bold step forward in welcoming the booming cryptocurrency industry to the Big Sky state. This legislation was approved by both the House and Senate on a bipartisan vote with overwhelming support across the political spectrum, from conservatives and libertarians to Butte Democrats and members representing our Tribal Nations. They all understood the power behind putting a predictable regulatory framework in place for cryptocurrency mining and the potential it holds for everyday Montanans. For years, we had hoped that leaders in our nations capital would step forward and enact the kind of legislation that passed here in Montana. Because of their inaction, we have both introduced similar bills over multiple sessions to place the welcome mat for innovators in the crypto space to invest in our state. The new law enacts several important protections for digital asset miners and users and removes regulatory uncertainty. For instance, it allows the industry to flourish in Montana without being subjected to discrimination or unnecessarily onerous requirements. This means that local and county governments cannot pass rules that treat crypto mining operations differently than other data centers. They cannot prevent a digital asset mining business from operating in an area zoned for industrial use, nor prevent home digital asset mining at a private residence, except as related to existing noise ordinances. The bill makes clear that digital assets are personal property, and prevents the taxation of the transaction of such currency if used to make payments. These protections give digital asset miners and the general public an important understanding of the rules of the road as it relates to the industry in Montana. Gov. Gianforte has said many times that Montana is open for business. We are pleased to echo his words by adding that it is now truly open for business for this tremendously entrepreneurial industry in particular. We want to welcome more crypto and digital asset businesses to the state where we envision a safe haven where major firms could set up their headquarters here. We herald the potential of this industry in helping to stabilize our energy grid, and believe that investment in digital asset mining can allow Montana to increase the production of our energy and digitally export Montanas energy across the world. And perhaps most importantly, we are thrilled to see a place in Montana for an industry that wont change our culture. Although content if Montana reaps the benefits of SB 178, we dont want to hoard all of the success. The U.S. Congress should use Montanas legislation as a model and pass a Federal digital asset protection law. The United States can and should be the leader in this field, and our leaders in Washington should be welcoming and encouraging the industry, not threatening it with taxes and unfair regulation. Lets do what we have done with many other new and innovate industries and give this industry a roadmap thats fair and that works, and let the innovators lead the way. Its that simple. We hope all members of our Congressional delegation will speak up in favor of this commonsense approach. Montana is called the Treasure State for obvious reasons. But we dont need to physically mine the earth for every natural resource. We can add digital asset mining to the list of reasons Montana leads the way. By opening the doors to an industry that can bring about a more modern and financially fair economy for many Montanans, we hope that Washington, D.C. takes note of our efforts here in one of the laboratories of democracy. Its been seven years since North Carolina voters have needed a form of identification to cast a ballot but it appears they could need one this November. The mostly partisan battle over voter ID is one that has been fought in the states courts for years, with some saying its another form of voter suppression, while the other side says it ensures voter integrity. In late April, the Republican majority North Carolina Supreme Court reversed a trial court decision that struck down the 2018 voter ID law. The trial court had ruled that GOP legislators passed the law in part to retain General Assembly control by discouraging Black Democrats from voting in legislative elections. But Associate Justice Phil Berger Jr. wrote, in part, that the trial judges erred in relying on a federal court ruling striking down a 2013 voter ID law as tainted by racial discrimination. Although a federal lawsuit challenging the voter ID law is still pending, the State Board of Elections said Friday that staff would start working toward a smooth rollout of the ID requirement with municipal elections this fall. Voters also previously approved a separate photo voter ID mandate for the state constitution, although that amendment remains stuck in litigation that wouldnt affect Fridays ruling. State Board of Elections officials say they are moving ahead with preparations for implementing voter ID. The state elections board says when a voter checks in to vote at a polling place, they will be asked to show an acceptable photo ID. Election workers will check to see if the picture on the ID reasonably resembles the voter. The address on the photo ID does not have to match the voter registration records, according to the elections board. The last election where voters had to show ID was the November 2016 election, said Debbie Mace, director of elections for Burke County. While most people will likely use their drivers license as their voter ID, the state elections board says other forms will be accepted. Voters without an ID can get a No Fee ID Card from N.C. Department of Motor Vehicles offices, the state board says. And voters will soon be able to get a free ID from their county board of elections. The state elections board says other acceptable forms of ID include: U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport card College or university student ID approved by the State Board of Elections (coming soon) State or local government or charter school employee ID approved by the State Board of Elections Military or veterans ID card issued by the U.S. government Tribal enrollment card issued by a tribe recognized by the state or federal government ID card issued by an agency of the U.S. government or the state of North Carolina for a public assistance program Mace said even those voting absentee by mail will have to include a copy of their ID. She said three envelopes will be included inside the absentee-by-mail packet. She said inside will be a return envelope and in that will be an envelope to put the ballot in and an envelope for a copy of their voter ID or an ID Exception Form explaining why they dont have a voter ID. The state elections board says photo ID is not required for military or overseas voters who vote using special absentee voting procedures that federal law makes available for such voters. Mace said anyone voting absentee by mail will need two witnesses to sign the ballot to say they witnessed that voter marking the ballot. During the 2021 election, when people didnt need an ID, a couple of hundred people voted by absentee by mail, Mace said. And just like the ID Exception for absentee voters, if a voter cant show photo ID when voting in person, they can still vote by filling out an ID Exception Form, according to state elections board information. The state elections board says permitted exceptions to the photo ID requirement include the voter has a reasonable impediment to showing photo ID (lack of transportation, lost or stolen ID, disability or illness, family responsibilities, etc.); the voter has a religious objection to being photographed; or the voter was a victim of a natural disaster within 100 days of Election Day. For more information, see ncsbe.gov/voter-ID and FAQ: Voter ID. These web pages will be updated frequently with the latest information. The Associated Press contributed to this story. Editors note: Calendar items must be submitted at least five days before an event. Email all items to news@morganton.com. TODAY through THURSDAY 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 the Central Office at 700 E. Parker Road. Call the transportation department at 828-437-4770 for more information. THURSDAY Ladies Bible study Gateway Bible Church, 222 Believers Way, Morganton, is hosting a free ladies Bible study from 9-11 a.m. It will be taught by Marlene Houk, a local speaker and author, and the group will be studying her book, Hidden in a List: Secrets from Bible Women. Books are available at Gateway or on Amazon. Email gatewaybiblemorganton@gmail.com with any questions. NAACP meeting The Burke County Branch of the NAACP will meet at 6:30 p.m. at the Mountain View Recreation Center, 111 Alphabet Lane, Morganton. All members are invited to attend, and COVID-19 protocols will still be followed. FRIDAY 2023 Legislative Breakfast The Burke County Chamber of Commerce will host the 2023 Legislative Breakfast from 7:30-9:30 a.m. at the Morganton Community House, 120 N. King St., Morganton. Visit www.burkecountychamber.org for more information. SATURDAY The public is invited to the Captain Charles McDowell House on Saturday, June 3, from 1-5 p.m. for a tour of the 1812 house and restoration kitchen. The house is located at 119 St. Mary's Church Road in Morganton. Docents will share the stories associated with this, the oldest known brick structure in Burke County. Select items from the Historic Burke Foundation Gift Shop will be for sale. Call 828-437-4104 if you have questions. MONDAY American Legion meeting American Legion Post 21, Post 322 and Post 506, as well as the new members of the Sons of the American Legion, will meet Monday, June 5, at 5:30 p.m. at the Mountainview Recreation Center located at 645 1st St., Morganton. We are looking for new members to join as well as young men for the Sons of the American Legion. Contact stosh@burkecountypost21.com for further information. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7 AARP meeting AARP Chapter 3262 will host retired FBI Special Agent Andy Nazworth, who will be speaking on the topic, Dont Be a Victim: 20 Ways to Protect Yourself. The group will meet in the lower level of the Collett Street Recreation Center with refreshments at 9:30 a.m. and the program starting at 10 a.m. New members are welcome. Annual dues are $5. THURSDAY, JUNE 8 Business 4 Breakfast Burke County Chamber of Commerce will host Business 4 Breakfast, Protecting Your Business from Financial Fraud, from 7:30-9 a.m. at First Citizens Bank downstairs conference room, 217 N. Sterling St., Morganton. Visit www.burkecountychamber.org for more information FRIDAY, JUNE 9 Fundraiser The Burke County Literacy Council will host a fundraiser Literacy on Tap at Hillman Beer, 301 S. Sterling St., Morganton. Live music will be performed by Justin Clyde Williams from 5-7 p.m. Come join us, celebrate summer, and the last day of school while supporting the summer programs at the Burke Literacy Council. Hillman will donate a portion of sales to the Literacy Council. SATURDAY, JUNE 17 Summer Pop-Up Shop The Burke County Chamber of Commerce, 110 E. Meeting St., will host its Summer Pop-Up Shop from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit www.burkecountychamber.org for more information. Juneteenth Brunch First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King St., Morganton, will host the third annual Juneteenth brunch at 10 a.m. Rev. Dr. James E. Hunt will be the speaker, along with multicultural performances. Jay Alexander, program/music director for 107.9 The Beat, WGTF.FM out of Kentucky, is the master of ceremony. Other participants include Malik Harris, Dylan ONeil, Kevin Hunt and Cory Lovelace. The Journey Continues. Limited seating is available, and tickets are $20 each. Call 828-433-6797 or 828-430-0304. MONDAY, JUNE 19 Fire department meeting The Lake James Fire and Rescue Department will hold its annual meeting at 6 p.m. at the fire department. Prior to the meeting, elections for vacancies on the board of directors will be held from 4-6 p.m. The results of the election as well as a financial report and any necessary business will be discussed during the meeting. Anyone living in the Lake James Fire District and interested in serving on the board of directors should notify the president of the board no later than June 1. Two board vacancies will be filled at this election. All residents 18 years or older residing in the Lake James Fire District are encouraged to vote in the election of board members between 4-6 p.m. and attend the annual meeting at 6 p.m. Board President Jim Powers can be reached by email at jimpowers5137@gmail.com. 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. THURSDAY, JUNE 22 Board of directors meeting Burke County Smart Starts board of directors meeting is scheduled for 4 p.m. at the Partnership offices, located at 304 W. Union St. Board 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 828-439-2326 or us the NC Relay System at 1-800-735-8262. 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. MCDOWELL COUNTY Ray McKesson, retired vice president of finance and administration at McDowell Technical Community College and member of the colleges board of trustees and the MTCC Foundation, was recently awarded North Carolinas Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Gov. Roy Cooper. The award was presented in a surprise ceremony at McDowell Tech when McKesson and friends were gathered for a separate dedication ceremony. Members of the McDowell Tech Board of Trustees, Don Ramsey and Nancy Hunter, and attorney Sharon Parker facilitated submission of the award. McKesson has been an exemplary public servant, a devoted community leader and remarkable change agent in McDowell County, said Dr. Brian S. Merritt, MTCC president. We are proud to honor him and recognize his contributions to both the college and our community. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is North Carolinas highest civilian honor, reserved for persons who have made significant contributions to the state and their communities through their exemplary service and exceptional accomplishments. Individuals receiving the award become North Carolina ambassadors and members of The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society. Don Ramsey, himself a former McDowell Tech employee and community leader who has served with McKesson on the MTCC Board of Trustees, formally applied for McKesson to receive this distinguished honor with assistance from Nancy Hunter and Sharon Parker. McKesson: The Public Servant After serving as a Spec 5 in the United States Army from August 1970 to August 1973, McKesson completed his associate degree at McDowell Tech in 1975 and his Bachelor of Technology Degree in Business Administration from Appalachian State University in 1977. Shortly thereafter, he became a Medicaid eligibility worker and, later, a social worker at McDowell County Department of Social Services before becoming a purchasing agent and equipment coordinator at McDowell Tech in January 1981. Continuing his education, he received his masters degree in business administration in 1982. In 1989, McKesson was promoted to chief financial officer at the college. During his tenure, he served under the colleges first four presidents: Price, Boggs, Mitchell and Wilson. The college experienced tremendous growth from his first years at the college until his retirement in 2007. On his first day of employment at McDowell Tech, there were approximately 500 curriculum students and the colleges asset base was approximately $2.3 million. The year he retired, there were approximately 1,200 curriculum students and an asset base of $7.1 million. Two new buildings and another building expansion took place during his tenure. Also during that time, the college moved from a quarter system to a semester system, and the first-ever articulation agreement between the North Carolina Community College System and the University of North Carolina System led to a true college transfer degree program at McDowell Tech and throughout the state. As the college grew, so did the number of areas for which McKesson was responsible, including bookstore operations, day care services, maintenance and custodial staff, financial management of the MTCC Foundation, cafeteria services, payroll and business operations. He left the college with a string of clean financial audits. McKesson: The community leader and change agent When he transitioned to official state retirement, McKesson also transitioned to his new role as a community leader. In her nomination of McKesson for the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, attorney Sharon Parker focused on four particularly important nonprofit organizations which serve citizens in McDowell County: Hospice of McDowell County, Health Coalition of McDowell County, the McDowell Technical Community Foundation and the McDowell Endowment Board, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina. On each of these boards, McKesson held a number of essential committee assignments, including finance and executive committees, and often as chairperson of the boards of directors. Of particular note, McKesson stepped aside from his service on the board of directors for Hospice of McDowell County to serve as interim executive director during a particularly difficult and tumultuous time in the organizations history and did so without pay. As a member and chairperson of the Health Coalition board, McKesson served on the founding committee which secured the first funding for the West Marion Community Forum, where residents are engaged to become leaders and change agents within the community, focusing on racial equity and related issues. The West Marion Community Forum went on to train other empowering strategies to other communities within McDowell County. In addition to the organizations which Parker focused on in her nomination, McKesson also served on the Mission McDowell Hospital board of directors, led the staff parish committee at Addies Chapel United Methodist Church, and led and founded the McDowell Chapter of the NAACP. Our county would not be as vibrant and cohesive today if Mr. McKesson did not give of his time, wisdom and talents, said Parker. Nancy Hunter, retired human resources manager at Western Carolina Center, wife of Judge Bob Hunter, also a member of the McDowell Tech Board of Trustees and MTCC Foundation, also recommended McKesson for the honor he received. Like Parker, who had served with McKesson on several boards, Hunter also served with McKesson on the two college boards, but also served on the board of trustees prior to McKessons retirement at the college. She has known him for many years and also recommended McKesson without reservation as an unparalleled leader in the community. McDowell Tech and McDowell County are most fortunate to have someone of Rays caliber serving our college and the community, said Merritt, the MTCC president. His strength of character, wisdom and tenacious commitment to progress and change, especially on racial equity issues, have made and continue to make a real difference in the lives and success of individuals and organizations in our community. Like Don, Nancy and Sharon, I can think of no one more deserving of this honor and look forward to many more great things from him and his colleagues on these many boards. Congratulations, Ray! On each visit, I have wept. It is almost impossible to keep back the tears as you look across the rows of crosses and think about the boys under them who died that day. Even if you do not know anyone who died, the heart knows something the brain does not, and you weep. If you think the world is selfish and rotten go to the cemetery at Coleville overlooking Omaha Beach. See what one group of men did for another on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Andy Rooney My War In the early morning hours of June 6, allied paratroopers night-dropped into the Norman countryside to capture and hold the bridges and causeways leading to the five-beach allied attack zone. The Germans designed the Normandy beaches and towns as a massive kill zone for any possible invasion. Many people on the battling sides knew a cross channel invasion was coming. It was just a matter of when. General Eisenhower, managing the operation to invade France, made a crucial decision with the break in the weather a few hours earlier. OK, lets go, he said. The invasion was on. The greatest operation in world history began in those wee hours of the morning and continued a few hours later with thousands of men exiting landing craft on the shores of Normandy. The British Prime Minister Winston Churchill tried to get some sleep. He looked at his wife and said, There may be 25,000 casualties by tomorrow morning. President Franklin Roosevelt, awakened at 3 a.m. in Washington, was made aware of the invasions commencement. He spent time the previous weekend composing a D-Day prayer to be printed in American papers. His words, based on the Episcopal Prayer Book, remain large and strong, now 79 years later. FDR read the prayer later in the afternoon to millions of people tuning into the radio. American citizens prayed with the American president in a moment of solemnity. Roosevelt began, Almighty God, our sons, pride of our nation, this day have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our republic, our religion, and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity. By the time the president read his words, the allies clung to a foothold in Normandy thanks to the heroism and sacrifice of many. Canadians held one beach area, the British two more, and the Americans managed to hold Utah and Omaha beaches. As the great war correspondent Ernie Pyle wrote days after, It was the final, horrified acceptance of their (German prisoners) doom. Yet, as a toe-hold on a second front held, the allies lost nearly 10,000 casualties. FDR, in his prayer, informed Americans about what soldiers were experiencing, Their road will be long and hard, for the enemy is strong. He may hurl back our forces, success may not come with rushing speed, but we shall return again and again. They fight to liberate. They fight to let justice arise. For these men are lately drawn from the ways of peace. They yearn for the end of battle, for their return to the haven of home. While Americans were listening to their president read his prayer, ferocious battles were taking place in French seaside towns and in the hedgerows behind them. On that day of days, as the president prepared to pray with the people, he remained calm as news of the losses in both men and material mounted. His steady hand helped to guide the country. He did what a wartime president might do; conferring with military advisors, making notes regarding casualties, and prepared his radio remarks. In most cities across the country, churches and synagogues remained open during D-Day so individuals could worship and pray as the battle raged in France. FDR continued to bring peace and hope to Americans through his prayer by asking Americans to continue in prayer past the moment, and to redouble their contributions to the war efforts at home. He knew families would be receiving death notices soon from the battles in Normandy. He acknowledged this in his words that afternoon, They will be sore tried, by night and by day. Mens souls will be shaken with the violence of war. Some will never return. Embrace these, Father, and receive them, thy heroic servants, into thy Kingdom. We look back and we know what happened. The D-Day landings paved the way for the liberation of Paris and tougher battles to come. There was a great cost in American and allied lives and in the days and months which followed. Franklin Roosevelt died 10 months after the invasion itself. The Second World War ended with the German and Japanese surrender, which followed months after his death. D-Day was a long and arduous and costly day, and the days after would be so as well. FDRs attentive prayer gave appropriate thoughts to the day and the heady days to follow. He prepared his prayer while the allies put the final touches on the mission. When millions of Americans prayed with their president on the radio, they joined in a great communal moment in history. FDR accomplished what a leader should do, informing and preparing citizens for the fight ahead. We remember the prayer, but may forget the power in it and through it, and should remember how it inspired most of the nation. There is a line in America the Beautiful about heroes proved in liberating strife. Such was on display during those early morning hours a long time ago. We often celebrate the success of D-Day, but forget the human cost and the families who lost loved ones during an important time in our history. May we never forget the cost, both at home and abroad. What the war correspondent Andy Rooney said is true. In the Norman American Cemetery at Coleville, there are 9,386 graves. Many of the men who died on D-Day and after are buried there. Like many older, adjacent houses in Butte, there are two on South Colorado Street feature roof eaves that nearly touch. And that wasn't good for either house Wednesday morning. Soon after 7 a.m. Wednesday, the Butte-Silver Bow Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire in the 900 block of Colorado. Firefighters were told the house to the south was also threatened by the fire. No resident of either house sustained injuries from the fire or smoke. As a precaution, a couple living in the home where officials believe the fire started went to the hospital for an assessment of smoke inhalation effects, said Fire Marshal Kelly Lee. That home was thoroughly charred. The house just south, at the corner with West Second Street, suffered fire-related damage. The owner shook his head after inspecting the house. What a mess, he said. Nearby, Don Horne was at the scene to keep an eye on his sons house, just north of the house where the fire started. It appeared to have escaped significant damage. Lee said the cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Photo: The Canadian Press Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino holds a news conference in the foyer of the House of Commons in Ottawa, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick The federal government is looking at whether to expand security protection to cabinet ministers as more of them express concern for their safety and that of their families. Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino would not discuss the idea Wednesday but said the "threat landscape" for parliamentarians and staff is worrisome. A senior government source confirmed that a funding request has been made to Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland to help the RCMP dedicate additional officers to the VIP protection service. There are dedicated security details the Governor General and the prime minister, but other cabinet ministers only receive protection on specific occasions or in response to specific concerns. Mendicino's mandate letter from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2021 instructs him to work on bolstering security of both ministers and MPs. Families Minister Karina Gould says she has needed RCMP protection a few times and the threats are far worse now than they were when she was first elected eight years ago. WEDNESDAY, May 31, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- A nasal spray containing ketamine might help relieve migraine headaches when other treatments fail, a new study suggests. Ketamine is a synthetic anesthetic with hallucinogenic effects that is sometimes used intravenously for migraine headaches. It's being tried for treatment-resistant depression, too. But it's also a potentially addictive "party" drug so it is not for everyone. In this trial, researchers report that 49% of migraine sufferers who used the nasal spray found it very effective in relieving pain. Forty percent said it was somewhat effective and nearly 36% said it improved their quality of life. "It's for patients who've tried several other treatments that haven't been effective and for patients that are really disabled or significantly disabled by their pain," said senior researcher Dr. Michael Marmura. He is a headache specialist at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. It's not for patients with a history of substance abuse, he said. Ketamine is usually given intravenously, Marmura said, noting that a nasal spray is more convenient. However, this ease of use also ups the potential for misuse. The drug is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of migraines and is not commercially available as a nasal spray, Marmura noted. "This is not something that we suspect will be widely adopted, but I think that there may be a role for this for some of our most refractory patients," Marmura said, referring to the most difficult-to-treat cases. "It appears to have an acute effect and for some patients, it may help their quality of life or prevent migraine down the road." People with migraines have recurring headaches of moderate to severe intensity often accompanied by nausea and light sensitivity. The condition can be disabling. Dr. Salman Azhar is a neurologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, who had no part in the study. Because the study is retrospective, he said the results are inconclusive and "not strong enough to lead to a recommendation to use nasal ketamine as a treatment for acute refractory migraines." For the study, Marmura's team reviewed the reports of 169 men and women who had used ketamine nasal spray to treat their migraine headaches. More than two-thirds had daily migraine, and 85% had tried three or more medications to prevent their headaches and were currently using two. Most patients had also tried other painkillers to treat migraine. Participants reported using the nasal spray six times, over an average of 10 days a month. Compared with other pain relievers, 43% said the nasal spray was "much better" and 30% said it was "somewhat better." Nearly 75% said they used fewer pain relievers when using nasal ketamine spray. Almost three-quarters reported at least one side effect, including fatigue and double/blurred vision and cognitive effects, such as confusion and dissociation, vivid dreams and hallucinations. These effects were mostly temporary, Marmura said. He said addiction to the drug is the most worrisome side effect. Among these patients, 23 used ketamine daily and 37 used the spray more than 15 days a month. The study also had limitations. Most participants used other medications alongside ketamine, making it hard to evaluate the benefit of the spray alone, the researchers said. "Ketamine is used as an anesthetic but, at lower doses, it can be an effective pain reliever, including for difficult migraine headaches," said Dr. Rick Godley, an otolaryngologist in Rhode Island and president of the Association of Migraine Disorders. Ketamine works by reducing the activity of glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in pain, mood, thinking and memory, he explained. "The role of ketamine in migraine management remains unclear but currently is an alternative medication for those who have acute refractory headaches," Godley said. "What is lacking are prospective research studies where clinicians do not know which medicine is being delivered and ones that can account for the high degrees of the placebo effect and set guidelines for the safe frequency and duration of use." Godley is also concerned about potential misuse of ketamine. "With a delivery system that can be used independent of professional supervision, intranasal ketamine could be abused," he said. "This drug which has been used recreationally for its thought-bending and hallucinogenic qualities could be used in excess and combined with alcohol and other drugs." Ketamine, even as an intravenous medication, is not a first-line drug for migraine headache relief, Godley said. "Nonetheless, it holds promise for some as a more convenient alternative rescue medicine when other rescue medicines fail," he noted. The report was published online May 30 in the journal Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine. More information For more on migraine, head to the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. SOURCES: Michael Marmura, MD, department of neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Penn.; Rick Godley, MD, otolaryngologist and President and Co-Founder, Association of Migraine Disorders; Salman Azhar, MD, neurologist, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City; Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine, online, May 30, 2023. Former Vice President Mike Pence will launch his presidential campaign during a Des Moines rally on June 7, a source familiar with Pences plans confirmed. The former vice president has made frequent visits to Iowa as he explored a bid for president. He will join several other presidential contenders at Republican U.S. Sen. Joni Ernsts annual Roast and Ride fundraiser on Saturday, days before the planned campaign launch. He plans to campaign in all 99 counties, according to multiple reports. CNN will host a town hall with Pence at Grand View University at 8 p.m. June 7, the same day his campaign is set to launch. Pence has made education, LGBTQ issues and civility in politics a focus of his early campaigning, taking particular aim at an often-maligned gender support policy the Eastern Iowa Linn-Mar school district adopted last year. If a school in the heartland of America, where a student would have to come in with a permission slip from their parents to get a Tylenol from the school nurse but could get a gender transition plan without ever notifying their parents, as I said then Ill say it again: Thats not bad policy. Thats crazy, Pence said during a Des Moines visit last week. Hes also drawn contrast with his former boss and soon-to-be primary opponent, former President Donald Trump. In his bid to overturn the 2020 election Trump urged Pence to stop the certification of the results, and said Pence did not have the courage to do what should have been done during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Pence said this year there can be no tolerance for the violence seen on Jan. 6, drawing comparisons to protests in many cities in 2020 against police violence. Before being selected as Trumps 2016 running mate, Pence was the governor of Indiana from 2013 to 2017 and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 2001 to 2013. Pence is polling around 5.5 percent in FiveThirtyEights national Republican primary polling average, trailing Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. He drew 5 percent of support in a recent Emerson College poll of Iowa Republican voters. Chris Christie, N.D. governor also set to announce presidential bid North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum is set to join the growing field of Republicans seeking the party's 2024 presidential nomination. Burgum, a wealthy software entrepreneur, is expected to launch his campaign during a June 7 event. Burgum is scheduled to make a special announcement about the 2024 presidential race in Fargo, where he helped build Great Plains Software, according to a media advisory. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is set to announce his 2024 presidential campaign Tuesday at a town hall in Manchester, N.H., according to NBC News and The Washington Post. Christie finished 10th in the 2016 Iowa caucuses and dropped out of the race after finishing sixth in the New Hampshire primary. He endorsed Donald Trump, and later was named the head of Trumps transition team, only to emerge as a vocal critic of Trump after the then-president refused to concede his loss to Joe Biden in 2020 and pushed claims of widespread election fraud. Trump by far remains the leading Republican front-runner in the polls, both nationally and in Iowa. Hinson announces 3rd annual BBQ Bash Iowa Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, of Marion, announced she will host her annual BBQ Bash on Aug. 6 at Hawkeye Downs in Cedar Rapids. Special guests and additional details will be announced in the coming weeks, according to her campaign. Hinsons fundraiser has drawn crowds of hundreds in past years, bringing together Iowans from across the state to hear from nationally prominent speakers. South Carolina U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, who is seeking the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, headlined last years event. Previous speakers included Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel and Texas U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, who won the 2016 Republican Iowa caucuses. Tickets are available for purchase for $40, and kids 12 and under can attend free of charge. Tickets can be purchased at ashleyhinson.com/bbq Nikki Haleys husband to deploy to Africa as she seeks 2024 GOP nomination Nikki Haleys husband will soon begin a yearlong deployment to Africa with the South Carolina National Guard as his wife campaigns for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. Our family, like every military family, is ready to make personal sacrifices when our loved one answers the call, Haley, a former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and South Carolina governor, said in a statement provided to The Gazette. We could not be prouder of Michael and his military brothers and sisters. Their commitment to protecting our freedom is a reminder of how blessed we are to live in America. Michael Haley is a major in the South Carolina Army National Guard. It will be his second active-duty deployment overseas since he joined the Guard as an officer in 2006. He previously deployed to Afghanistans Helmand province with the National Guard from January to December 2013. A person with knowledge of Michael Haleys deployment told The Gazette on Wednesday that he will begin deployment in the coming weeks and likely remain deployed through spring 2024. Details regarding the units deployment ceremony were forthcoming, according to the person familiar with upcoming deployment, who was not authorized to discuss it publicly and requested to speak on background without being named. According to the individual, the South Carolina National Guard this spring called officers with Michael Haleys skill set to deploy in support of United States Africa Command (AFRICOM). Nikki Haley has been highly critical of Democratic President Joe Bidens competency as commander in chief as she campaigns for the White House. She has also pledged to make cuts in $46 billion in foreign aid to countries that hate us. I am running for president to restore our nations strength, our national pride and our peoples trust, Haley wrote in a February op-ed. Backing American allies and friends like Israel and Ukraine is smart. Sending our tax dollars to enemies isnt. Thats why I will cut every cent in foreign aid for countries that hate us. Tim Scott headed back to western Iowa for Council Bluffs town hall South Carolina U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination, is headed back to western Iowa. Scott will host a town hall Friday in Council Bluffs with Iowa Republican U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra before joining Iowa GOP U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst on Saturday at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines for Ernsts annual Roast and Ride fundraiser. Eight announced or prospective GOP presidential candidates are slated to speak at the Des Moines event. "I'm excited to be back in the Hawkeye State with my good friends and colleagues Randy Feenstra and Joni Ernst," Scott said in a statement. "Iowans are ready for an optimistic message grounded in conservative values." Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Tuesday that she plans to send about 100 Iowa National Guard soldiers and 30 law enforcement officers to Texas to assist with border security between the United States and Mexico. The Iowa National Guard troops and state law enforcement personnel would deploy for separate 30-day stints in August and September, respectively, according to Reynolds office. It is the second time in a two-year span that Reynolds has directed state troops and law enforcement to Texas. In 2021, up to 30 Department of Public Safety officers and 24 Iowa National Guard members assisted in law enforcement efforts at the border in response to requests from fellow Republican Govs. Greg Abbott of Texas and Doug Ducey of Arizona and the federal government, costing the state about $300,000. Reynolds defended the decision by stating border security is a federal responsibility that has not been adequately addressed by Democratic President Joe Bidens administration. The consequences of an open border can be felt across the country as fentanyl and the cartels threaten our communities, Reynolds said in a statement. While the White House chooses to do nothing, Republican Governors stand ready to protect our states interests. During the first deployment, Iowa troopers assisted with 240 criminal arrests and 51 vehicle pursuits. Troopers also seized 18 firearms, $1.7 million dollars, 948 pounds of marijuana and 37 pounds of cocaine and methamphetamine, according to the governors office. Our officers experienced firsthand the challenges of a chaotic border and provided much needed aid and assistance to our colleagues at the Texas Department of Public Safety, Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan K. Bayens said in a statement. Their need for help is even greater today, and we stand ready to support them without compromising our duties to our home state. Asked how much the planned deployment is expected to cost the state, and whether Texas would reimburse Iowa for the expense, Reynolds Deputy Communications Director Kollin Crompton said the governors office still is working out operational details at this time with Texas officials. A spokesperson for the Iowa National Guard said it is in the planning phase of determining what its mission will be and which service members will be deployed. The Iowa National Guard comprised of the Iowa Army National Guard and the Iowa Air National Guard has about 9,000 members. The guard employs more than 6,500 part-time service members and more than 2,200 full-time members and civilians. Once we know our specific mission, well know which service members are trained and qualified to act on this mission, Jackie Schmillen, Iowa National Guard public affairs director, said Tuesday. Major Gen. Stephen Osborn, adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard, in a statement said units stand ready to deploy and conduct missions that are needed to secure our border and safeguard the American people." Osborn and Schmillen said the deployment will not affect the Guards ability to aid in protecting Iowans and the nation. We will be ready to serve our state just as we would be with any other deployment, Schmillen said. We have deployments regularly as part of what we do so this is just another opportunity to show how we can serve our state and nation. We will always be ready to serve our state should we be called upon and critical need arise. The announcement comes after Abbot requested aid in a letter to his fellow governors this month, asking them to send available law enforcement to the border after the end of Title 42, a pandemic-era rule that allowed the federal government to expel migrants more easily. In the letter, Abbott, a Republican, said Texas had apprehended more than 376,000 migrants and made 28,000 arrests since the March 2021 inception of Operation Lone Star. Join us in the mission to defend our national sovereignty and territorial integrity and send all available law enforcement personnel and resources to the Texas-Mexico border to serve alongside our thousands of Texas National Guard soldiers and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers, Abbott wrote in the letter. Daily migrant crossings reached a record-high of more than 10,000 a day in the days leading up to the end of Title 42. But those crossings plummeted in the days after, to about 4,400 each day, according to CBS News. New policies enacted by the Biden administration carry stricter asylum rules, and certain migrants found entering the country illegally will be banned from the U.S. for five years. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis a Republican presidential contender who frequently emphasizes border security in Iowa visits and Republican Idaho Gov. Brad Little directed resources and personnel to Texas this month, Abbott said in his letter. Reynolds has been critical of Bidens border policies, placing the blame on him for record-high crossings, humanitarian concerns and an increase in fentanyl coming into the U.S. Allowing (Title 42) to end without another solution in place is not humane; it is a dereliction of duty, she said in a statement on May 11 when Title 42 ended. Hundreds of thousands of pounds of fentanyl are entering our country, cartels are trafficking women and children, our border agents are overwhelmed, and thousands of migrants are setting up camp in towns along the border. Emily Sinnwell, a member of the Iowa City Catholic Worker House who recently spent five days at the Texas border, said Iowa should focus on welcoming immigrants to the state rather than criminalizing them. The organization provides shelter and resources to immigrants and refugees in Eastern Iowa. We need humanitarian relief for immigrants and refugees at the border, she said in a statement. We need to send buses to bring them back to Iowa and welcome them to our state. We have the resources and jobs to help and be a part of the solution, not criminalize people for fleeing violence, poverty, and war. CLIVE, Iowa (AP) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis stepped into Iowa on Tuesday for the first time as a Republican presidential candidate and stepped up to Donald Trump, vowing to fight back against the former president as the GOPs 2024 campaign enters a new phase. Until now, the 44-year-old Republican governor whose slogan is Never Back Down had largely avoided any direct confrontation with Trump, his chief Republican rival, who has in turn unleashed a torrent of fierce attacks against DeSantis for much of the year. DeSantis was initially cautious while addressing an energetic crowd of roughly 500 gathered inside a suburban Des Moines church. But speaking to reporters afterward, he pushed back against Trump in a way he had not before on the national stage. I'm going to fight back, he declared, taking aim at Trump's recent criticism of his leadership during the pandemic. Hell, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship. Are you kidding me?" He accused Trump of essentially abandoning America First principles on immigration, supporting pandemic-related lockdowns and generally having moved left on key issues. DeSantis comments came six days after a stumbling Twitter announcement that raised questions about his readiness for a national campaign. Beyond the glitchy launch, DeSantis opens his campaign looking up at Trump in the polls amid persistent questions about the Florida governors ability to connect with voters in person. It's unclear whether Republican primary voters will like the sharpening tone between the two Republican heavyweights. Kim Riesberg, 59, who attended DeSantis campaign kickoff at Eternity Church in Clive with her husband, said she voted for Trump in 2016 and in 2020, but is not necessarily committed to him this time around. DeSantis is a little softer, said Riesberg, of Dallas Center, Iowa. And more appealing to the masses. Since Trump and DeSantis are competing for the same job, she understands it might be a bitter race. But at some point, I would like to see them on the same team. Riesberg may have to wait awhile. Trump and his allies unleashed a fresh round of anti-DeSantis attacks on Tuesday as well. The former president shared new polls on social media noting that he is the heavy favorite in the GOP primary. He also took aim at DeSantis' leadership during the pandemic, writing that Florida was third WORST State in Deaths by Covid. So why do they say that DeSanctus did a good job? New York had fewer deaths! Trump wrote on his social media platform. At the same time, a pro-Trump super PAC was running ads on Iowa television accusing DeSantis of wanting to raise taxes, an accusation DeSantis has denied. The feud will have an opportunity to play in public as the week progresses, with both men courting voters in key states on the presidential primary calendar. DeSantis' early state blitz continues with four Iowa stops scheduled for Wednesday. He'll begin in conservative western Iowas Sioux City before moving to Council Bluffs and the manufacturing and college city of Pella in east-central Iowa before the finale in Cedar Rapids. He has a full day of campaigning in New Hampshire on Thursday and South Carolina on Friday. Over the weekend, he's expected to return to Iowa to attend a fundraising event for Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst. Trump, who was already scheduled to be in Iowa on Thursday, added a couple of stops in the state to his schedule for Wednesday, ensuring he would overlap with DeSantis for a time. Trump will tape a radio appearance in Des Moines before attending a GOP legislative dinner. DeSantis met with evangelical pastors Tuesday ahead of his evening speech at the church, where he largely received an energetic response as he called for a revival of American greatness. The crowd was especially receptive to his focus on conservative cultural issues, particularly gender identity, which he has targeted with legislation that bans instruction or classroom discussion of LGBTQ+ issues in Florida public schools for all grades. It is wrong for a teacher to be telling a young student that they may have been born in the wrong body or that their gender is a choice, DeSantis said. Our country is going in the wrong direction. We can see it and we can feel it, DeSantis told the crowd in the church auditorium plastered with red, white and blue signs proclaiming a Great American Comeback. Hundreds more watched from an overflow room. In his hourlong speech, DeSantis included a handfuls of indirect jabs at Trump. He said the nation needs "a disciplined, energetic president who will spit nails and fight the needed battles every single day over an eight-year period. Trump, of course, would be limited to one term. He also said Republicans would end their culture of losing only by making the 2024 election a referendum on President Joe Biden. Trump, with his big personality and legal entanglements, has essentially made every election a referendum on himself. But while speaking to reporters and a small group of supporters in another room afterward, DeSantis addressed the feud head on. He noted that he avoided criticizing Trump while he was in the White House. When we disagreed, I never bashed him publicly because he was taking all this incoming from the media, the left, and even some Republicans. And the whole collusion was a total farce. And he was treated very, very poorly. And that bothered me, and it still bothers me to be honest. So, I never really would air those disagreements," DeSantis added. "Well, now hes attacking me over some of these disagreements, but I think hes doing it in a way that the voters are going to side with me. There are signs the attacks could be wearing on voters who might otherwise support Trump. Jack Spoonemore, a 20-year-old of Adel, Iowa, attended DeSantis' appearance to see what energy the Florida governor would bring. He said he supported Trump in 2020, but hes interested in checking out other candidates. Im not a huge fan of the shade, he said of Trumps attacks on DeSantis. WASHINGTON (AP) Veering away from a default crisis, the House approved a debt ceiling and budget cuts package late Wednesday, as President Joe Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy assembled a bipartisan coalition of centrist Democrats and Republicans against fierce conservative blowback and progressive dissent. The hard-fought deal pleased few, but lawmakers assessed it was better than the alternative a devastating economic upheaval if Congress failed to act. Tensions ran high throughout the day as hard-right Republicans refused the deal, while Democrats said extremist GOP views were risking a debt default as soon as next week. With an overwhelming House vote, 314-117, the bill now heads to the Senate with passage expected by week's end. McCarthy insisted his party was working to give America hope as he launched into a late evening speech extolling the bill's budget cuts, which he said were needed to curb Washington's runaway spending. Amid deep discontent from Republicans who said the spending restrictions did not go far enough, McCarthy said it is only a first step." The package makes some inroads in curbing the nations debt as Republicans demanded, without rolling back Trump-era tax breaks as Biden wanted. To pass it, Biden and McCarthy counted on support from the political center, a rarity in divided Washington. In a statement released after the vote, Biden said: I have been clear that the only path forward is a bipartisan compromise that can earn the support of both parties. This agreement meets that test. He called the vote good news for the American people and the American economy. Biden had sent top White House officials to the Capitol and called lawmakers directly to shore up backing. McCarthy worked to sell skeptical fellow Republicans, even fending off challenges to his leadership, in the rush to avert a potentially disastrous U.S. default. Swift passage later in the week by the Senate would ensure government checks will continue to go out to Social Security recipients, veterans and others and would prevent financial upheaval at home and abroad. Next Monday is when the Treasury has said the U.S. would run short of money to pay its debts. Overall, the 99-page bill restricts spending for the next two years, suspends the debt ceiling into January 2025 and changes some policies, including imposing new work requirements for older Americans receiving food aid and greenlighting an Appalachian natural gas line that many Democrats oppose. It bolsters funds for defense and veterans, and guts new money for Internal Revenue Service agents. Raising the nation's debt limit, now $31 trillion, ensures Treasury can borrow to pay already incurred U.S. debts. Top GOP deal negotiator Rep. Garret Graves of Louisiana said Republicans were fighting for budget cuts after the past years of extra spending, first during the COVID-19 crisis and later with Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, with its historic investment to fight climate change paid for with revenues elsewhere. But Republican Rep. Chip Roy, a member of the Freedom Caucus helping to lead the opposition, said, My beef is that you cut a deal that shouldnt have been cut. For weeks negotiators labored late into the night to strike the deal with the White House, and for days McCarthy has worked to build support among skeptics. At one point, aides wheeled in pizza at the Capitol the night before the vote as he walked Republicans through the details, fielded questions and encouraged them not to lose sight of the bills budget savings. The speaker has faced a tough crowd. Cheered on by conservative senators and outside groups, the hard-right House Freedom Caucus lambasted the compromise as falling well short of the needed spending cuts, and they vowed to try to halt passage. A much larger conservative faction, the Republican Study Committee, declined to take a position. Even rank-and-file centrist conservatives were unsure, leaving McCarthy searching for votes from his slim Republican majority. Ominously, the conservatives warned of possibly trying to oust McCarthy over the compromise. One influential Republican, former President Donald Trump, held his fire: "It is what it is, he said of the deal in an interview with Iowa radio host Simon Conway. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said it was up to McCarthy to turn out Republican votes in the 435-member House, where 218 votes are needed for approval. As the tally faltered on an afternoon procedural vote, Jeffries stood silently and raised his green voting card, signaling that the Democrats would fill in the gap to ensure passage. They did, advancing the bill that hard-right Republicans, many from the Freedom Caucus, refused to back. Once again, House Democrats to the rescue to avoid a dangerous default, said Jeffries, D-N.Y. What does that say about this extreme MAGA Republican majority? he said about the party aligned with Trumps Make America Great Again political movement. Then, on the final vote hours later, Democrats again ensured passage, leading the tally as 71 Republicans bucked their majority and voted against it. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said the spending restrictions in the package would reduce deficits by $1.5 trillion over the decade, a top goal for the Republicans trying to curb the debt load. In a surprise that complicated Republicans' support, however, the CBO said their drive to impose work requirements on older Americans receiving food stamps would end up boosting spending by $2.1 billion over the time period. That's because the final deal exempts veterans and homeless people, expanding the food stamp rolls by 78,000 people monthly, the CBO said. Liberal discontent, though, ran strong as nearly four dozen Democrats also broke away, decrying the new work requirements for older Americans, those 50-54, in the food aid program. Some Democrats were also incensed that the White House negotiated into the deal changes to the landmark National Environmental Policy Act and approval of the controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline natural gas project. The energy development is important to Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., but many others oppose it as unhelpful in fighting climate change. On Wall Street, stock prices were down. In the Senate, Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell are working for passage by week's end. Schumer warned there is no room for error." Senators, who have remained largely on the sidelines during much of the negotiations, are insisting on amendments to reshape the package. But making any changes at this stage seemed unlikely with so little time to spare before Monday's deadline. Asian stock markets are lower ahead of a vote by Congress on a deal to avert a government debt default while China factory activity weakened. Shanghai, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Sydney retreated. Oil prices declined. Wall Streets benchmark S&P 500 index edged up less than 0.1% as President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy tried to line up votes in support of their deal to allow the government to borrow more. Officials warn the government will run out of money as soon as next week, which would roil the economy and financial markets. An official survey showed Chinas downturn in factory activity deepened in May. Police in Bungoma have summoned renowned preacher Ronald Nakalila Wanyama, alias Nabii Yohana, over suspicions of running a religious cult in Western Kenya. The 83-year-old preacher who runs the Church for All Nations church in Kanduyi, Bungoma, is expected to appear before Bungoma Police Commander Franci Kooli on June 2, 2023. There are some issues we want to understand from him, said the police boss. Kooli added that they want to establish whether the self-proclaimed prophet who has 42 wives and 239 children runs his church as a healing centre or a religious organization. We want to know how they are run, Kooli said. Authorities will also likely probe prophet Nabiis 93-book bible that he claims to have written and that he uses to preach at his church. The controversial preacher also penned his own commandments, reducting the original twelve given by Moses in the Bible to 10. African leaders should build strong political foundations for the growth of democracy and economic power in the continent, Prime Cabinet Secretary (PCS) Musalia Mudavadi has said. He said it is high time that African leaders seize the opportunity being presented by the changing global dynamics to promote constitutionalism, progressive democracy and fidelity to the rule of law. The tenets of democracy call for fidelity in the rule of law and adhering to the set guidelines stipulated under the constitution. African leaders should rise to the occasion and be an example of leaders who mean well for their people by applying what is right at all the times. said Mudavadi. Mudavadi made the remarks in sideline bilateral talks when he represented President William Ruto at the inauguration of the 16th President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. With the tough economic times being witnessed globally, Mudavadi said African countries have found themselves in a precarious situation. This, he stated, calls for political stability, peace and sustainable democratic space if countries are to build a new economic frontier for sustainable growth. Once African countries, through their leaders, embrace political competition to demonstrate the will of the people in progressive democratic growth, he affirmed that Africa will rise to be counted on the global map. In democracy, you have to agree there is a moment you will win and there is a moment you will lose. Leaders should always remember that the will of the people through a transparent, credible, verifiable, legal and accepted process prevails over personal selfish interests. It is always paramount to let the will of the people be done, he stated. He lobbied for an enhanced bi-lateral collaboration between Kenya and Nigeria, saying that the two countries continue to enjoy cordial relations cutting across many spheres. The PCS said Kenya and Nigeria have recently had extensive discussions on key areas of interest that will benefit citizens of not only both countries but also the continent. He cited a number of instruments of cooperation signed between the two countries as an anchor to commitments in trade, service delivery and growth in democracy. We have signed quite a number of agreements including one that establishes a joint commission for cooperation dating back to 2013, one on cooperation in immigration matters signed in May 2014, and many more, pointed Mudavadi. He called upon Ministries of Foreign Affairs in the two countries to work closely with respective High Commissions to ensure progressive evaluation and monitoring of resolutions when the instruments of cooperation were signed. Mudavadi said there lies a huge potential if some of the other agreements can be fully actualized including the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Bilateral Air Service Agreement, the Bilateral Trade Agreement of 2014 and the MoU on a Five-Year multiple entry VISA for prominent business persons. Establishing a joint trade and investment committee as envisaged in the Bilateral Trade Agreement of 2014 is one of the areas we need to quickly operationalize. This will be a key starting point that will open critical areas of discussion and shape collaboration ties for Kenya and Nigeria, said Mudavadi. Also during the talks, the current situation in the transport connectivity between Kenya and Nigeria were deliberated upon, with the latters domestic flight sector said to have a massive potential in which Kenyas national carrier, Kenya Airways can tap into. Kenya and Nigeria are important players in their respective regions. While Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa, Kenya is a major economic hub in East Africa thus the many opportunities for trade and investment between the two countries. The main exports from Kenya to Nigeria include tea, horticultural products, textiles, and processed foods, while Nigeria exports petroleum products, cement, and chemicals to Kenya. Another area of interest is shared diplomacy of conflict management, where Kenya is ingrained in seeking solutions to conflicts in EAC and IGAD countries while Nigeria keeps watch on the volatile western rim of Africa. Mudavadi presented congratulatory and message of good will to the new President, with the change of power as million of Nigerians and leaders from across the globe witnessed. Kenya is committed to continuous collaboration with Nigeria on bilateral, trade and diplomatic ties across many sectors ranging from agriculture, technology, renewable energy and the service industry, said Mudavadi. I am honored to represent Ruto in the ceremony and delivered his message of good will and best wishes on behalf of Kenyans to the new President. We wish President Tinubu a successful and peaceful tenure moving into the future as this is the ultimate expression of democracy, constitutionalism and the rule of law, Mudavadi stated. Tinubu of All Peoples Congress (APC), won a hotly contested presidential election held on February 25 after garnering 8,794,726 votes. Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was second with 6,984,520 votes while Peter Obi of the Labour Party was third with 6,101,533 votes. Tinubu, 70, was briefly the senator for Lagos West (1992-93) as well as the Governor of Lagos for two terms between 1999 and 2007. Pesapal, a provider of payment solutions and business tools in Africa, has launched a real-time settlement feature for merchants in Kenya, enabling the swift transfer of funds directly into their accounts. With the introduction of real-time settlement through Pesapals e-wallet Openfloat, merchants utilizing the Pesapal platform can experience expedited fund disbursements. Real-time settlement provides several advantages to merchants, including faster access to funds, improved cash flow management, reduced fraud risk, and enhanced customer experience. Speaking during the launch, Pesapal CEO and Founder Agosta Liko said this new feature ensures that funds are available to merchants immediately, enabling businesses to streamline their operations and make better financial decisions. We are thrilled to introduce real-time settlement on the Pesapal platform. From now on, our merchants will have quicker access to their funds, ultimately improving the health of their business, Pesapal Group CEO Agosta Liko said. Merchants leveraging the Openfloat solution by Pesapal will enjoy seamless payouts to both bank accounts and mobile money platforms, enabling convenient fund transfers. Additionally, merchants can utilize the platform to monitor their cash flow in real-time and access comprehensive transaction reports. With a strong presence in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda, Pesapal has established a wide regional reach. The organization handles over 12 million transactions each month and is dedicated to connecting one million African entrepreneurs to e-commerce, digital payment systems, and the global financial network by 2030. The St. Helena Public Library invites the community to participate in its Summer Reading Challenge through Sept. 2. This year's theme is Find Your Voice." There are three different programs: Adults, teens and children. Adults and teens may participate online at shpl.org or via the app Beanstack. They can also use a paper booklet available at the library. The childrens program is solely available as a booklet. Adults who complete the program will receive a fancy mason jar cup with assorted teas and a raffle ticket to win gift cards to local businesses. Teens have their pick of games, craft kits and candy for their prizes. They will be entered to a raffle to win Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Tickets. Children will receive small toy prizes and can earn a free scoop of ice cream from Chokolatte. 50 classics from (almost) everyone's high school reading list 50 classics from (almost) everyone's high school reading list #50. Their Eyes Were Watching God #49. Mythology #48. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (Maya Angelou's Autobiography, #1) #47. Oedipus Rex (The Theban Plays, #1) #46. Moby-Dick or, the Whale #45. The Pearl #44. The Importance of Being Earnest #43. The Red Badge of Courage #42. The Taming of the Shrew #41. Slaughterhouse-Five #40. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer #39. Crime and Punishment #38. A Separate Peace #37. Death of a Salesman #36. The Little Prince #35. The Old Man and the Sea #34. The Canterbury Tales #33. Othello #32. Flowers for Algernon #31. Beowulf #30. A Tale of Two Cities #29. Wuthering Heights #28. The Hobbit (The Lord of the Rings, #0) #27. A Midsummer Night's Dream #26. The Grapes of Wrath #25. Great Expectations #24. Frankenstein: The 1818 Text #23. Julius Caesar #22. The Outsiders #21. Brave New World #20. Night (The Night Trilogy, #1) #19. The Crucible #18. The Giver (The Giver, #1) #17. Jane Eyre #16. Fahrenheit 451 #15. Pride and Prejudice #14. The Odyssey #13. The Diary of a Young Girl #12. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn #11. 1984 #10. The Scarlet Letter #9. Hamlet #8. The Catcher in the Rye #7. Of Mice and Men #6. Macbeth #5. Animal Farm #4. Lord of the Flies #3. The Great Gatsby #2. Romeo and Juliet #1. To Kill a Mockingbird Photo: itsemmaokayy/TikTok. A man who broke into a bakery in May 2023, cleans up after breaking the glass door in security footage. An already unusual local crime story has a new twist. After one of the more thoughtful break-and-enter thefts in Vancouver's history, a man has called to apologize for the crime and offered to pay for what he took and the damage he caused. On Friday, May 26 at around 3 a.m. a man broke into Sweet Something bakery. After cleaning up the glass from the door he broke to get in, he only took a half-dozen chocolate cupcakes (well, he took a few selfies on the store phone, but those stayed at the store). The owner posted the bizarre surveillance video on TikTok. "I hope they're good bro; next time just ask, we'll be happy to give you the six cupcakes," she says at the end of the video. But that's not the end of the story The video got attention, both in traditional media and social media; Sweet Something even took to making cupcakes with orange sunglasses on them, like the ones the thief wore in his selfies. But early this week it took another odd turn when the thief called the store. "He profusely apologized," says bakery owner Emma Irvine in a new video. "You could tell it was really sincere and he's offered to pay for the door and for the cupcakes." She notes the business has asked police to not press charges, she adds. The business owner says the two "had a good laugh together," adding: "I told him I'm not mad or upset. He told me that maybe one day we could sit down together and have a cupcake and talk about the situation." She says the man also offered to give her the sunglasses he wore for the selfies. "I feel like I would wear them all the time, just to make light of the situation." Im going to kill that story I had slugged for A1. It might run next week or I might spike it altogether. Thats journalism jargon, and boy, is it violent. When I kill a story, I decide not to run it. When I slug it, I give it a short name to help editors and page designers identify it. When I spike it, I kill it. Pacifists, beware. Journalism is full of bellicose talk like this, no matter which beat youre covering. Some journalism slang smacks of machismo, like the distinction between hard news (crime, government) and soft news (features, arts). A lot of old-school journalists look down on that soft stuff, even though I find it more fun to write. Journalists like hard stuff so much that one of the hardest, densest metals on the planet has been assigned multiple meanings. Lead (pronounced leed) is the introduction to an article, and leading (pronounced led-ing) is the space between lines of type, since typesetters insert strips of lead to widen those gaps. I knew one editor who loved to punch up drab headlines. Those little descriptors above the headline, like From the editor or St. Helena Farmers Market, are kickers. Ouch! My former editor Dave Stoneberg added another harsh word to my news lexicon: slam. He always had one more story to slam right before deadline. Hed write stories six days out of the week, but on Tuesdays hed slam them. Not all journalism lingo is violent; some of its just mystifying and, like a lot of jargon, seemingly intended to confuse outsiders. Captions are cutlines, not captions. A sub-headline is a sub-deck or is it a dek? In my first few weeks on the job former assistant editor Susan McWilliams told me a story could be just a few grafs. Uh-oh, I thought. I dont even have any data for this story, and now I have to tell it in graphs? A graf (duh, Jesse) is a paragraph. And (extra credit) the nut graf is the graf that explains the story in a nutshell. Susan also advised me to consult the outlook to keep track of my assignments. I dutifully scoured the options menus of Microsoft Outlook for guidance. Turns out the outlook was the printed story plan for the following weeks paper that our editor had handed out on Wednesday. Nowadays we call those weekly plans budgets, but theyll always be outlooks in my heart. And then there was the time I foolishly used hijack in an otherwise benign news story. Never mind that my brilliant semiotics professor at Pacific Union College used to talk about the compositional beauty of a war photo hijacking its emotional impact. I learned that post-9/11 you never use hijack unless somebody's commandeering a plane. Journalists tend to use odd words in their writing. Some of these give me a toothache. For example, probe. Journalists love probe because its short and fits neatly in a headline. Not me though. Ill report on investigations from time to time, but Ill leave the probes to the doctors. Or blaze instead of fire. Has any fire victim ever said they lost their home to a blaze? Journalists also borrow jargon from the law enforcement profession (thats where "beat" comes from). That habit bothers me because police terminology tends toward the passive voice which your high school English teacher warned you about and often couches traumatic events in euphemisms. Thats no doubt an effective coping mechanism for police, but its not the right way for journalists to convey the human toll of crime and punishment. Officer-involved shooting is an infamous term that reporters are learning to avoid more and more. We need to make clear who pulled the trigger. Sometimes journalists go too far in the other direction, using colorful words when a plain one would do just fine. The worst example is using slain interchangeably with killed. Shakespeare and the King James Bible notwithstanding, does anybody use slain in regular conversation nowadays? It sounds sensationalistic to me. The semi-convincing explanation Ive heard is that slain works better as an adjective than killed. To be fair, there are some journalism terms I love. If this column is long enough it might have to jump to page A5. Doesnt jumping sound like fun? And who doesnt love irk, fracas, decry, and all those other colorful, headline-friendly words you only seem to find in news stories? OK, thats all for this week. Its time to put this paper to bed. This effort by House leadership to silence me and my constituents is a disturbing and terrifying affront to democracy itself, said Montana State Rep. Zooey Zephyr. House leadership explicitly and directly targeted me and my district because I dared to give voice to the values and needs of transgender people like myself. By doing so, theyve denied me my own rights under the Constitution and, more importantly, the rights of my constituents to just representation in their own government. Who is Zooey Zephyr? She is a first-term Democratic representative from a liberal district of Montana. She identifies as transgender. She ran for office in 2021 after Republican lawmakers passed legislation to restrict the rights of transgender Montanans. Recently she was censured and silenced by the Montana state legislature. She was banished from the floor for encouraging a "raucous statehouse protest" that supported transgender rights. Zephyr told The Associated Press, Its a really sad day for the country when the majority party can silence representation from the minority party whenever they take issue. According to the Pew Research Center about 5% of young adults in the U.S. say their gender is different from their sex assigned at birth. Gender identity is ones internal knowing of their gender how ones feels internally: woman, man, or neither. Transgender is the term used to describe people whose gender identity is different from their designated gender at birth. Some transgender people identify as neither a man nor a woman, or as a combination of male and female, and may use terms like nonbinary or genderqueer to describe their gender identity. Reference to and images of transgender people have been depicted in art, literature and medicine since the Middle Ages. Catherine Armstrong, author of "The Trans History You Werent Taught in Schools," writes, In the American Civil War, Franklin Thompson and Harry Buford were widely praised soldiers who fought for and spied for the Confederate states. Both were women passing as men, or in the phrase of historian Matthew Teorey who has worked on their cases, women who 'unsexed' themselves. In addition, Armstrongs book highlights various cultural groups that have deep respect for gender diversity which differs significantly from the European frame of mind. In the Polynesian culture, the concept of a third gender or Mahu can mean a gender between male and female. The Mahu people were highly respected in native culture as keepers of oral traditions and historical knowledge. The Navajo tribe from the southwestern U.S. have a gender category called Nadleeh, which can refer to transgender people. They have a spiritual function as well as being respected tribal members in their own right. While more than 64% of Americans favor policies that protect transgender individual from discrimination, legislative bills continue to be introduced across the country to block trans people from receiving basic healthcare, education, legal recognition, and the right to publicly exist. Of the 543 bills introduced, 70% passed, 372 remain active and 101 have failed. What is generating this flurry of bills? Fear? Fear of "the other" has long standing in this country consider the Jim Crow laws and the Chinese Exclusion Act. Current anti-trans legislation is just one more marker that signifies that being designated as "the other" is subject to discriminatory laws. In response, the U.S. House passed the Equality Act on February 25, 2021. It expands the Civil Rights Act verbiage to include: prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex, gender identity and sexual orientation in housing, employment, public accommodations and other areas. It had bipartisan support. Senate Bill 393 Equality Act was introduced on February 23, 2021. It continues to languish in the judicial committee whose only action has been to read it twice. What can we do to show our support for a trans persons right to, according to the U.S. Constitution, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness?" One response is to ensure that we hear their voice. In celebration of Transgender Awareness Week, the Office of Health Equity, Diversity & Inclusion at UC Davis recognized the importance of hearing the voice of someone who is trans. Here is an excerpt: "In June 2022 I marched in my first Pride Parade here in Sacramento. I was terrified, but it was an incredible experience. On that day I dared to venture outside dressed in a way that aligns with who I truly am, in broad daylight, for only the second time in my life. The reactions from my family have been incredible and given me hope that Im not on my own. I cant imagine going through something like this without the love and support from those who are supposed to teach us about unconditional love. Chasten Buttigieg, in an interview with CNN's Erin Burnett about his new book, "I Have Something to Tell You," concluded with this: Does it get better? It does get better if others are committed to make sure that it gets better. Stand up. Speak Up. Commit to making it better. Nimbus Arts raises $700,000 at NIMBASH Nimbus Arts raised over $700,000 during its 14th annual NIMBASH fundraiser, held at Charles Krug Winery on May 13, the nonprofit said in a release. The event, which attracted more than 400 attendees, contributed to local artists, community art programs, and the group's ongoing operations. An additional $190,000 was secured for programs and community outreach activities, setting a new record for the fundraiser. The St. Helena based organization's mission is provide employment and income for local artists. During the event 50% of art sale income went to artists in the community and beyond. Local artists also benefited through wages and commissions earned from the event's production. NIMBASH, described as an "arty-party," offered attendees a range of interactive art activities, live music, a fashion show, farm-to-table food, wines, auctions, and an after-party. Themed "Camp NIMBASH," the event embraced the upcoming summer season with art activities like t-shirt screen printing, mosaic work, watercolor postcards, and archery led by local Boy Scouts from Troop #1. Jamie Graff, co-founder and executive director of Nimbus Arts, praised the event for its capacity to reflect Napa Valley's generous community and artistic spirit. The event also marked the debut of the NimBUS, a mobile art studio funded through grants and donations. Designed to expand Nimbus Arts' reach across Napa County, the NimBUS will bring art programs to public schools, parks, and community events throughout the summer. Nimbus Arts' current collaboration with Mentis, Napa County's leading mental health resource, and its Teens Connect youth program, was also spotlighted during the event. The initiative aims to harness the therapeutic benefits of group art-making, raising awareness of Mentis' services and creating a mosaic art installation. Nimbus Arts and Teens Connect will invite community members to contribute personal mosaic elements for the installation, symbolizing community stability, strength, balance and harmony. The event drew support from a number of sponsors, including 3.1 Phillip Lim, Charles KrugPeter Mondavi Sr. Family Estate, Centric General Contractors, elysewalker, Garys Wine & Marketplace, Grassi & Associates, Tara Rudman, Diane B. Wilsey, Ciatti Company, Farella Braun + Martel, Grgich Hills Estate, Mendocino Grove, Storage Star, Malloy Imrie & Vasconi Insurance Services LLC, Martin Design, Melody Raye Flowers, Walker Construction, and several fashion show enthusiasts. Sing Napa Valley to host 'Sounds of the Sixties' concert Sing Napa Valley will host "Sounds of the Sixties" on Sunday, June 11. The event will be held at the First Presbyterian Church Gymnasium, 1333 Third St., directly opposite the Uptown Theatre, in Napa. Following the success of their previous event, "Songs of the '50s," Sing Napa Valley's upcoming showcase promises an immersive journey through the eclectic sounds of the 1960s. From the soulful rhythm of Motown, the storytelling of folk and country music, to the revolutionary waves of psychedelic rock and surf music, attendees can expect a diverse range of performances. Hosted by "Wolfman Shawn" Fitzpatrick of Radio Station KSNV, the concert will feature an impressive lineup of artists. Participants include Ellen Patterson, director and pianist, vocalist and guitarist Gordon Lustig, percussionist Edward Blue, and special guest vocalist Suzi Gilbert. Attendees will be treated to a mix of medleys, solos, and crowd-pleasing sing-alongs. Adding to the atmosphere, an intermission will offer refreshments courtesy of Sweetie Pies. The event is open to the public with tickets priced at $30 per person. They can be purchased online at singnapavalley.org, by phone at 707-255-4662, or via mail by sending a check with ticket order details to Sing Napa Valley, PO Box 2774, Napa, CA 94558. Guests are encouraged to don sixties-themed attire for the event, promising an authentic throwback to the era. St. Helena resident publishes book Eileen R. Tabios latest book, "Because I Love You, I Become War," has been released, the book's publisher stated in a release. The book consists of poems and a section of poetry-related prose by the St. Helena resident. Tabios has released over 70 collections of poetry, fiction, essays, and experimental biographies from publishers around the world. Her award-winning body of work includes invention of the hay(na)ku, a 21st century diasporic poetic form; the MDR Poetry Generator that can create poems totaling theoretical infinity; the Flooid poetry form thats rooted in a good deed; and a first poetry book, "Beyond Life Sentences," which received the Philippines National Book Award for Poetry. Her latest book is available via Amazon, its publisher, Marsh Hawk Press, among other places. Napa Valley Writers to host Paul Madonna Napa Valley Writers, a local chapter of the California Writers Club, will host an event featuring renowned artist and best-selling author, Paul Madonna, on June 14. Madonna's career includes creating the art series, "All Over Coffee," which enjoyed a 12-year run in the San Francisco Chronicle. He has penned five mystery novels, among them the popular Emit Hopper Mystery Series. His title, "Everything Is Its Own Reward," was distinguished as the best book by the 2011 NCBA Award. Madonna's creations, ranging from novels and cartoons to large-scale public murals, have garnered international recognition, with his pieces exhibited in prestigious venues such as the Oakland Museum of California, the William Blake Association in France, and the San Francisco International Airport. This fall, readers can anticipate Madonna's upcoming mystery novel, "The Commissions," set in San Francisco, available in September. Madonna also co-founded therumpus.net, imparted drawing lessons at the University of San Francisco, and is a frequent speaker on the subject of creative practice. The June event will also feature member reader Claudia Long. The gathering will take place at the Napa Valley Unitarian Universalists, 1625 Salvador Ave., Napa. Admission is $5 for members, $7 for non-members, and free for students with valid ID. For further information, contact lenorehirsch@att.net or visit napavalleywriters.online. The event is open to the public. Download Napa Valley Register news app today! Your story lives in the Napa Valley. Get in-depth stories from the Napa region and beyond including news, sports, features and politics. STOCKTON Twenty-seven years ago, Denise Smart was at a swim meet. It was 1996, and her two youngest children, Matt and Lindsey, were competing in an annual Memorial Day weekend competition in Stockton. It was the first her oldest daughter, Kristin, wasnt there for. Kristin was away at college Cal Poly San Luis Obispo finishing up her freshman year. That day, Denise received the phone call no parent can imagine: Her daughter was missing. Cal Poly officials told Denise that Kristin likely went camping for the weekend, but a motherly instinct told her that wasnt the case. So she called Kristins roommates, who said Kristin had left behind her backpack, ID and other essential belongings. It was just immediately off-kilter, Denise recalled with goosebumps forming on her arms. I was immediately concerned. Upon receiving the news, Denises husband Stan drove at once to San Luis Obispo. He hoped Kristin would have returned to Cal Poly by the time he arrived there. He thought he would just have to give his daughter a lecture. But that moment never happened, and neither Stan nor Denise could predict the unending nightmare that would unfold from that day. What are we going to do? Jurors in the Kristin Smart murder trial speak out for the first time. Four of the jurors who convicted Paul Flores of killing Smart speak of the stress and isolation of hearing the case and of telling no one until after the verdict. Paul Flores, who was also a freshman at Cal Poly at the time, quickly became a person of interest in the case, then the de facto sole suspect. But a botched initial investigation led to his freedom for 25 years, until he was finally arrested and charged with Kristins murder. His father, Ruben Flores, was also arrested that day, accused of helping his son conceal the crime. Two years later in October, a Monterey County jury convicted Paul Flores for the first-degree murder of Kristin Smart. He is currently serving a 25-years-to-life sentence in North Kern State Prison. His father, who was acquitted by a separate jury, remains free. Despite that resolution, the 27th anniversary of their daughters disappearance isnt a time for celebration, Stan and Denise said. This year, at 27 years, we are beyond grateful that he is in prison, Denise said. But we would be ecstatic at this point if we were able to lay her to rest. On Wednesday, with Paul Flores conviction and sentencing beginning to recede, Stan and Denise sat down with The Tribune at their Stockton home, to talk about their daughters life, the investigation and trial, and where they go from here. Who was Kristin Smart? Kristin was so much more than a missing girl, her parents told the Tribune. If Kristin were still alive today, Denise said, she would walk in the room, crack a joke and sit on her dads lap even as an adult. She and Stan had an irreplaceable friendship, they said. When Kristin was a teenager, her father got a job in Napa as the Vintage High School principal, so Kristin transferred to his school for her junior year, commuting with him each day. She was also close with to two younger siblings, Lindsey and Matt. Update: Paul Flores convicted of murdering former Napa resident Kristin Smart; Ruben Flores found not guilty of accessory charge One jury has found Paul Flores guilty of murdering Cal Poly student and former Napa resident Kristin Smart in 1996, but a second jury acquitted Flores' father Ruben of an accessory charge for allegedly helping to hide Smart's body. They had begun swimming at ages 5 and 7, when Kristin was 9. At one meet, Kristin jumped into the pool, and soon she took up the sport as well. Though her two siblings were more naturally gifted, Denise said, Kristins perseverance and determination were unmatched. Within one summer, she began receiving medals and ribbons, and was even named most improved swimmer of the year. Still, she remained her siblings biggest cheerleader. Each Halloween, Kristin would escort them and the other neighborhood kids to trick or treat. She babysat neighbor Denise Pearces kids and was a role model to them. She became the favorite babysitter of the neighborhood, Pearce said, because she always planned fun activities to do with the kids. Kristin was also determined to have a life of adventure, her mother said. Denise Smart recalled a time when Kristin found a book at Barnes & Noble about how to get hired overseas as a college student. Kristin didnt have the money to buy the book, so she wrote down some information then made some calls. She was a senior in high school at the time. Later, Kristin convinced a Hawaiian surf camp to hire her despite not meeting the employment requirements, her mother said, a testament to her determination. Pearce remembers Kristins excitement for college, and even helped her pick out her first-day outfit: a denim jumper and white blouse. Cal Poly issues first public apology to Smart family Kristin was eager to attend Cal Poly, her parents recalled, but she stayed in close touch with her family, and Sunday phone calls became a tradition once she moved away. Because Memorial Day weekend 1996 was so busy with the swim meet, Denise Smart said she didnt realized Kristin hadnt called that Sunday. Then the call from Cal Poly came. Denise said representatives from the university were flippant when they told her Kristin wasnt accounted for, which was an immediate cause for concern. Denise Pearce, Denise Smarts best friend and fellow swim mom, was with her when she received the news at the swim meet. Pearce recalled her own travels in college and tried to reassure Denise Smart that Kristin was probably doing the same. I thought she still is out there somewhere, Pearce told The Tribune. Never in a million years would I think that she wouldve been murdered. That just wasnt in my reality. But as the days passed, the alarm bells sounded louder. Pearce stayed with Denise while Stan drove to San Luis Obispo with his nephew. The first month was excruciatingly long, Denise and Stan recalled. Denise called every law enforcement agency they could to recruit help to find their daughter, while Stan organized search parties to look for Kristin in sewers and alleyways across San Luis Obispo County. The Smarts said Cal Poly, law enforcement and the news media at the time blamed their daughter for disappearing. Kristin was drunk, they said. She went to a party. She was wearing shorts. Was she promiscuous? She was asking for it. But most witnesses didnt see Kristin actually drink, her parents recalled, and the possibility that she could have been drugged was never explored. Kristins friends told her parents that she was last seen with Paul Flores, whose nickname was Chester the Molester, but the university didnt secure Flores dorm room as a crime scene. Instead, Paul Flores left campus for summer break, and the room was cleaned. There seemed to be no value placed on our daughters life, Denise Smart said. In a phone interview with The Tribune for this story, President Jeffrey Armstrong apologized on behalf of Cal Poly for the way the university mishandled the case in the 1990s. Its the first public apology the university has issued. I cant imagine the pain Kristins family has felt and still feels. What theyve been through is just unbelievably heartbreaking, Armstrong said. We recognize, even though I wasnt here, that Cal Poly could have done things differently. There were things that we do differently now. There are things that should have been done differently. And for that, Im sorry. Just disgusting: Kristin Smarts parents reflect on initial investigation About a month after Kristins disappearance, Cal Poly handed the investigation to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office. Thats when Paul Flores dorm room was searched by cadaver dogs. The dogs alerted to the scent of human remains despite the room being cleaned, but there wasnt enough forensic evidence to pursue an arrest. That July, the sheriffs office also searched Ruben Flores Arroyo Grande home 17 miles south of Cal Poly, but they didnt bring cadaver dogs. If they brought dogs there, we wouldnt even know you, Denise told The Tribune. It wasnt until March 2021 that the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office found what they believe was a dug-up grave underneath Ruben Flores deck. Soil staining consistent with a decomposing human body tested positive for human blood, and fibers were found that matched the colors of Kristins clothing the night she disappeared. Its believed that the Flores family moved Kristins body from underneath the deck in February 2020, days after the FBI searched the home. Looking back, the Smarts believe the early missteps in the case were responsible for the loss of crucial evidence that could have convicted Paul Flores sooner and led to the recovery of Kristins body. Adding to their frustration, Denise Smart said the efforts by former sheriffs Ed Williams and Pat Hedges felt more like they were following a routine than trying to solve the case. Williams told the Tribune in 1997 that the only way the case would be solved is if Paul Flores talked, which the Smarts said gave Flores a blueprint on how to remain free. Hedges also declined help from outside agencies, including the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Denise said. Also in 1997, Denise said she received a phone call from then-District Attorney Barry LaBarbera. He told her that Paul Flores lawyer, Melvin De La Motte, said his client would plead guilty to involuntary manslaughter in exchange for Kristins body. To her, this meant Paul Flores killed Kristin and knew where she was. Its just disgusting, Denise Smart said. This past October, however, De La Motte denied negotiating a plea bargain that would suggest Paul Flores guilt, and he told The Tribune he only ever asked if the Smart family would be open to an involuntary manslaughter plea. After that, for more than a decade, the familys discontent with the sheriffs office only grew. Denise said she just wanted her missing daughter to be treated like a real person rather than a black-and-white face in the newspaper. You get so frustrated, Denise said. Theres no vocabulary for it. There are no words. At one point, Denise said, she produced a video of childhood memories of Kristin and sent it to former Sheriff Williams Office to no response. She also paid for billboards and made local and national TV appearances. Living children exceptional survivors, mother says The 25 years between their daughters disappearance and her killers arrest were filled with unresolved pain for the Smarts, to say the least. Its basically like tearing a piece of your heart out, Denise Smart said. Its not complete without her in it. Denise and Stan were distraught, but they still had two children to raise. Lindsey, their youngest, was about to graduate middle school when her sister disappeared, and Matt was in his third year of high school. She held onto advice someone gave her during a meeting with then-state Sen. Mike Thompson told her in the first year of Kristins disappearance: Hes already taken your daughters life. Dont let him take your family. Dont let him take your marriage. Dont let him take the life of your children. At the time, that advice angered Denise she believed her daughter was still alive. But as the years passed, it became a sort of mantra that kept her going. The parents decided to shelter their children from the grim details of their sisters disappearance. Sharing that with them would have been even more depressing, Denise said. Stan and Denise Smart's lives became about finding a balance between finding Kristin and continuing with their lives. If they dwelled on the bad, Denise said, they would just get older with nothing to live for. You do gain strength from your family, and you gain strength from your friends, Denise said. Its something you have to do together. All Stan and Denise Smart wanted for their two living children was for them to thrive, and the parents are proud to say their children did just that. Both maintained high grades, pursued successful careers and now have families of their own while still grieving the loss of their older sister. Our two children were exceptional survivors living through a living nightmare, Denise said. New SLO County sheriff offers hope to family It wasnt until Ian Parkinson was elected as sheriff in 2010, the Smarts said, that a shift finally occurred. Parkinson had campaigned on a vow to solve Kristins case, and he met with the family before he was elected. He was different than his two predecessors, the Smarts said. Ian made it sound like he understood the value that this family was missing a human being, Denise said. We didnt have any of that from either of the other sheriffs. It was a job for them that they wanted to check off. Parkinson was the first sheriff to have open communication with the Smart family. He gave them his personal cellphone number, always answered emails and always made sure to keep them in the loop, even if he couldnt share specific details. Nevertheless, progress in the case remained sporadic, with starts, stops and stalls continuing for nearly the first eight years of Parkinsons tenure. Then, sheriff's Detective Clint Cole was assigned the case in 2019, the year that is now regarded as a major turning point. The Smarts felt Cole also understood the value of Kristins life, and they appreciated how he prioritized finding new information rather than rehashing what was already known. Around the same time, another fortuitous meeting occurred during Denises visit to San Luis Obispo County on Kristins birthday that year, Feb. 22. Denise was in her car at Kristins Point of Hope, a memorial at Dinosaur Caves Park in Shell Beach 250 miles south of Stockton, when she saw a bearded man talking to a friend. She waited it was cold outside to see if the man would leave, but the conversation looked so engaging she figured he must know her friend, too. He didnt, but he did know a lot about Kristins case. Denise learned the mans name Chris Lambert and invited him to sing songs at a nearby bench with the Jam Fam, a local musical group. He never said a word that he was a musician. He didnt sing. I dont know if he even opened his mouth, Denise said. But he stood there with us. She then invited Lambert to dinner, and to her surprise, he said yes. Toward the end of the meal, Lambert mentioned the podcast he had been researching. He asked Denise Smart for permission to move forward, and though she wasnt sure what it exactly entailed, she said yes. I instantly liked him and trusted him, she said. The next week, Lambert visited her and Stan at their home in Stockton. He was still shy and slow to warm up, she said, but they eventually talked about the case. Its the conversation in the first episode of his podcast, which was released on Sept. 30, 2019. Within a couple of days, Your Own Backyard had reached 70,000 listeners. I was thunderstruck, Denise said. People from all over the country began to reach out with tips, and Lambert would refer them to law enforcement. This brought the Smart family the most hope theyd had in a while. Someone had to have an answer. Family reflects on the trial As the investigation ramped up, the Smarts were repeatedly told that Paul and Ruben Flores would soon be arrested. But theyd been on this roller coaster for 25 years, they said, and they knew to not let their hopes up too high. They didnt even believe the pair had been taken into custody until they saw the photos online, and they were ecstatic. This was the closest theyd been to justice for their daughter in a quarter century, and they hoped it could end with finding her body. What they didnt know was that the ensuing legal process would take more than two years. At times, it was difficult to sit in the courtroom, they said. They were under a strict gag order, so they couldnt defend Kristin when the defense attacked her character. Finally, after three months of testimony, they got word the juries had reached their verdicts on Oct. 18. At 1:30 p.m. that Tuesday afternoon, the Smart family entered the courtroom for the reading of Paul Flores verdict. They sat down on a wooden bench. They held hands. And they listened. The court reporter read the verdict: Guilty. It was such an extraordinary relief, Denise said. Your whole body just melted. Stan smiled. Denise and Lindsey cried. Then Ruben Flores verdict came: Not guilty. It had to have been an error, Denise said she thought at the time. But she remembered Ruben Flores jury didnt see the videotape of the law enforcement interview with Paul Flores. It was hard news to hear, the Smarts said, because they were and still are certain that Ruben Flores helped his son hide their daughter's body. But they are comforted that at least their daughters killer is being held accountable for his crimes. How Smarts have turned their loss into a new law After the verdicts, waiting five months for Kristins killer to be sentenced felt like another gut punch, the Smarts said. They had already waited too long for some semblance of justice, only to have to wait more. Stan Smart said he was happy the judge told Paul Flores he was a cancer to society he hadnt expected her to be so direct. But he doesnt believe the sentence of 25 years to life the maximum allowed for first-degree murder without enhancements like using a firearm is sufficient. The sentence is pretty minimal for taking a persons life and having a whole lifetime to do whatever you want, he said. So Stan and Denise Smart are working to change California law again. In 1998, they championed the Kristin Smart Safety Act, which requires universities and community colleges to have a written policy on how to navigate solving certain violent crimes with local law enforcement. Now, they are looking to add a new sentencing enhancement in Californias penal code that would add years of incarceration for withholding the location of a body something they believe could motivate Paul Flores to finally disclose where their daughter is. You want to try to prevent any other families from going through this nightmare. It shouldnt have to be this way, Denise Smart said. No one should have to go through this. For now, the search for their daughters body continues, Stan and Denise said. And it will continue until she is found. Different types of alerts and what they mean What exactly is a Silver Alert? What exactly is an AMBER Alert? What exactly is a Blue Alert? What exactly is an Ashanti Alert? What exactly is a Green Alert? There wont be any new buildings popping up at the large, walled-off empty lot in the heart of downtown Napa, at the intersection of First and Main streets, any time soon. But last week the area was spruced up with a new, nature-themed mural, set to remain in place for several years or at least until the parcel is eventually developed. Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help. Subscribe today! Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Napa Valley Register. The mural, painted over the past two weeks on site by the San Francisco-based artist Paz de la Calzada, is called Water It Vines, according to the city of Napas recreation manager Katrina Gregory. She noted that the mural which features hues of blue, green and white in a flowing, flowery pattern is inspired by organic shapes of the local flora and the nearby Napa River. The meditative and repetitive lines create a flowing environment that is both inviting and enriching as well as reflecting on human connections with the natural world, Gregory said in an email. The mural has been painted upon the black wooden fence thats surrounded the vacant location for several years. Buildings last stood on the site now filled with a scattered assortment of greenery, including trees that reach above the wooden walls back in 2015. The former Don Perico and Tuscany restaurant buildings were torn down to make way for a four-story, 28,180-square-foot building proposal that was meant to serve as the new headquarters for Bounty Hunter Rare Wine & Spirits. But Stefan Matulich, then Bounty Hunters chief executive, told the Napa Valley Register in 2021 that the business hadnt been involved with the project since at least August 2019, owing to leadership changes. The Argentine billionaire Alejandro Bulgheroni, who owned Bounty Hunter after founder Mark Pope sold the company to him in 2014, had sold it to Diego Marcos Borrero in 2019. As a result, the building proposal became uncoupled from the Bounty Hunter business, according to past Register reporting. Developer Tuscany Building LLC owned by Bulgheroni does still have approval from the city to build the originally proposed building; the citys planning commission granted a second two-year permit extension in September 2021. Neal Harrison, Napas economic development director, noted that was the point when the city reached out to the property owner to see if it would agree to some sort of beautification of the property while it remained undeveloped. The planning commission resolution approving the second extension included a request that the developer maintain the sidewalk, repair the wooden fence, and install a mural or some other form of graphics on the fence. The owner agreed to pay $10,000 for the project, and the city organized the artist selection process, according to Gregory. The agreement states that the mural will be up for three years or until the property is developed, and the property owner will be responsible for maintenance during that time. Despite the loss of Bounty Hunter involvement, there was some momentum for the building to happen two years ago. The company was in talks with technology entrepreneur and Napa resident Jason Johnson to establish a social club on the upper floors of the building, and was planning for a non-Bounty Hunter restaurant to occupy the ground floor, Johnson said at the time. In 2021 he said the social club would offer an experience similar to the San Francisco-based Founders Den, a technology start-up incubator of which he was then a managing partner. Late on Tuesday, Johnson said in a message they're still planning for the social club once the building is constructed. But there doesn't currently appear to be a timeline for when the building will get built, or clear plans for what the building would contain. Jim Silver, managing director at Ren Acquisition Inc. which is part of the New Frontier Wine Co. owned by Bulgheroni said in an email that the company doesnt have anything to report yet about it. We hope to make it look a little better while we work up some new plans, Silver wrote. Now that COVID and the supply chain issues are behind us, we are looking at new possibilities, but I cant say or promise anything right now. Editor's note: this story has been updated from its original posting to include a comment from Jason Johnson. Photos: BottleRock Napa Valley 2023, Day 3 Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia received a delegation headed by the President of the National Assembly of Slovenia, Urska Klakocar Zupancic, Armenian New-NEWS.am has learned from the PM's office. The Prime Minister welcomed the visit of Zupancic to Armenia and expressed confidence that it will give a new impetus to the further development of cooperation between the two countries. Pashinyan emphasized the expansion of both political and economic cooperation. The premier considered active cooperation at the parliamentary level, including on international platforms, necessary. Urska Klakocar Zupancic, for her part, expressed Slovenia's readiness to expand relations with Armenia in various directions. The interlocutors touched on issues of regional importance. In particular, they emphasized the need to stop Azerbaijan's illegal blockade of the Lachin corridor, as well as its aggressive rhetoric. The Armenian PM presented details about the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh, and stressed the importance of addressing the rights and security issues of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh under the internationally guaranteed dialogue mechanism. Also, the premier presented the approaches of the Armenian side regarding the settlement of existing key issues. In addition, Nikol Pashinyan and Urska Klakocar Zupancic highlighted the activities of the EU Civilian Mission in Armenia, which contributes to regional peace and stability. Azerbaijan FM announces another meeting with Armenia in Washington in near future Azerbaijan MFA announces refusal to delimit borders with Armenia based on maps Armenia, Azerbaijan recognizing one anothers territorial integrity are political statements, Mirzoyan says Armenia FM: We did not receive Karabakh peoples mandate to negotiate their future, we are not negotiating Yerevan Vardavar Lake covered with thin layer, there are dead fish, report says Mirzoyan: Turkey never posited preconditions for normalization of relations with Armenia Floods, landslides kill 15 people in Haiti Armenia MFA expenses increased by 3.8% in 2022, finance minister says shamshyan.com: Large number of dead fish found in Yerevan small lake Custody of Armenia fallen soldiers mother is commuted to house arrest More than 85,000 tourists visit Armenia reserves, museums in May Turkey to increase fee for passage through Bosphorus, Dardanelles Jeep is developing off-road self-driving system Karabakh Defense Army: Azerbaijan violated ceasefire, used rifles Armenian Defense Ministry: The statement disseminated by Azerbaijan is another disinformation Armenia Security Council head: There are many countries with which we are having arms purchase talks Security Council secretary: Unblocking means border guard service will be performed only by Armenia services Ukrainians will meet with success in counter-offensive Armenia Security Council chief: There is chance for peace treaty with Azerbaijan by years end 500 mil people rally in Warsaw against government Rally in support of Artsakh in Georgia $15 mil investment implemented in Jermuk Stoltenberg: Sweden has fulfilled its obligations Iraq, Syria FMs discuss tackling cross-border drug trafficking Muammar Gaddafi son on hunger strike Armenia PM sends condolences over train crash in India Peskov: Russia must finish the special operation Former Armenia president sends condolences to Indian PM New Finance Minister Simsek: Turkey must return to rational ground Erdogan, Stoltenberg meet in Istanbul Expert: Iran turns into Middle East gas hub Artsakh Defence: Azerbaijan distorts reality, tries to justify ceasefire violation Russia is the only country in Europe where food prices fell Belgian PM knocked out after falling off bike Uganda reports 54 peacekeepers killed in Somalia attack Germany to send two warships to Indo-Pacific Second floor of Yerevans SAS food court caught on fire India's railway minister names train crash cause Poland's opposition party holds anti-government rally Man falls under train and dies in Alaverdi China accuses Washington of 'maintaining hegemony' Governor Aksyonov: Crimea attacked by 9 UAVs 18-year-old Spitak resident found with cold weapon 44 parties, coalitions seek participation in Greek parliamentary elections Chinese warship nearly collides with US destroyer in Taiwan Strait Iran VP Mohammad Mokhber calls Turkey important strategic neighbo Death toll in India's train crash passes 300 Cavusoglu to be replaced as MFA Ombudsperson publishes report on aggression towards Armenians by Azerbaijani Armed Forces Death toll in India's train crash reaches 288 Armenia PM attends inauguration of Turkish President Erdogan RA President sends condolences regarding India train crash Armenian-American metallurgical plant is being built in Yeraskh Fresno State University students visit Armenian Genocide Memorial Delegation of 2 Argentina Parliament chambers visits Armenia RA Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan arrives in Turkey Ambassador to Belaus: Russia has no intention to cooperate with EEU countries to detriment of others Zelenskyy: Ukraine is ready for counterattack India investigates causes of major train disaster EU Ambassador to Armenia and Committee of Ministers members discuss RA justice reforms US envoy who caused Erdogan's displeasure to attend inauguration Death toll in India's train crash rises to 261 Typhoon hits Japan US State Secretary to visit Saudi Arabia Worst train crash in 40 years cancels nearly 50 trains in India Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry demands citizens not to visit Iran Over 80 country reps to take part in Turkish presidents inauguration Armenian community of Bulgaria rejects Armenia's position on Artsakh issue 53-year-old woman hit by car dies 15 schoolchildren face Gabriel Sargissian in open-air simultaneous display RA President and Synopsys Armenia head discuss IT industry development IOC President arrives in Baku Largest in last 40 years train crash in India MFA of Armenia saddened by tragic train accident in India Armenia MoD: Azerbaijani Defense Ministry's message is another disinformation Indian PM calls meeting over tragic train crash At least 288 dead in India train crash Agreement reached on Yeraskh-Julfa-Meghri-Horadiz route restoration Armenian Defense Minister speaks with U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for Political Affairs Russian Defense Ministry records ceasefire violations in Nagorno-Karabakh Armenian Ministry of Defense: Azerbaijan spread disinformation again Armenias new Meghri border checkpoint groundbreaking ceremony held Armenias Pashinyan to attend inauguration ceremony of Turkeys Erdogan Team Telecom Armenia is undertaking its initial public offering (IPO) Meeting of Armenia, Russia, Azerbaijan deputy PMs working group underway in Moscow Red Cross transports 18 medical patients from Karabakh to Armenia President meets with Karabakh MPs Russia presidential spox on Armenia PM statement: It is important, we take note of it Armenia premier questioned as witness within high treason criminal case framework About 19,600 people receive Armenia citizenship in 2022 Armenias Dilijan city police criminal investigation department head is charged for beating teen boy Baku not going to give up bellicose rhetoric, Azerbaijan MFA confirms Air Force commander: Iran will collaborate with friendly countries in training UAV operators Los Angeles County Armenians stage protest Azerbaijan ambassador to Turkey says Zangezur corridor via Armenia will open soon PM: I want to leave completed, complete certificate of cadastre of Armenia to our future generations Germany Armenians council: Unite for Karabakh self-determination right, Armenia sovereign territories protection Union of Armenian Associations in Sweden strongly condemns PM Pashinyans May 22 statement Armenia PM chief of staff: Various options being discussed regarding enclaves, no solution yet China Mining Corporation investment projects implementation possibilities in Armenia are discussed (PHOTOS) Armenia recognizes the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. Armen Grigoryan, the Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia announced this on Tuesday during the discussion organized within the framework of the GLOBSEC 2023 Bratislava Forum, the annual conference dedicated to security issues in the capital of Slovakia, the RFE/RL Armenian Service reports. "It is clear that we recognize the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. For example, in the May 14 statement of European Council President Michel, he mentioned the territories of 29,800 square kilometers of Armenia and 86,800 square kilometers of Azerbaijan. On one level, we hear such statements, on the other level, Azerbaijan, President Aliyev himself, never say that they recognize Armenia's 29,800 square kilometers. Moreover, the leader of Azerbaijan announced two days ago, on Sunday, we can draw the border ourselves. In a sense, this is a threat to Armenia to accept all the demands presented by Azerbaijan or they will draw the border wherever they want," Grigoryan said, addressing the participants of the discussion, asserting that such statements coming from Azerbaijan cannot help but worry the Armenian side. During the Bratislava discussion, Grigoryan's interlocutor, assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and head of the Foreign Relations Department of the President's Office, Hikmet Hajiyev, believes, however, that Azerbaijani president Ilham Aliyev's statements are misled in Armenia. Along with that, some statements made by the Armenian side, on the contrary, started to please Hajiyev. Along with that, the Azerbaijani official noted that on the one hand, Armenia declares that it recognizes the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan; on the other hand, Armenia's actions undermine that integrity. The Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia, however, repeated once again that the claims about the presence of units of the Armed Forces of Armenia in Nagorno-Karabakh do not correspond to reality. "There are no Armenian troops in Nagorno-Karabakh. There is only the Nagorno-Karabakh Defense Army there, which is needed because the people living there are facing security challenges. If Azerbaijan wants this situation to change, they should create such conditions, such an atmosphere that people will not feel the need for that Defense Army," declared Armen Grigoryan. According to the secretary of the Security Council of Armenia, the main goal of Yerevan is to achieve lasting peace in the region. "[Armenian PM] Nikol Pashinyan's team received the mandate to establish peace during the 2021 elections, and the Armenian public supports the establishment of peace," Grigoryan added. Hikmet Hajiyev, in turn, presented in detail the peace talks that took place in Washington, Brussels, and Moscow in recent weeks, adding that based on the results of those meetings, certain positive expectations were formed in Azerbaijan. During the discussion, the assistant of the President of Azerbaijan stated again that Baku was ready to ensure the rights of Armenians living in Karabakh within the framework of the Constitution of Azerbaijan. According to Armen Grigoryan, however, this matter should be discussed separately, during direct negotiations, and with the engagement of the international community. "We say: let's discuss security and rights. Predetermine not the outcome of those talks, but the process. Our desire is to see the international mechanism within which Stepanakert and Baku discuss the rights of Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh," said the secretary of the Security Council of Armenia. The United States expects a productive meeting between Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Moldovan capital Chisinau, stated US Department of State spokesman Matthew Miller. The leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan will meet with the US European partners in Chisinau this weekend, and they hope it will be a productive step at the negotiating table, not toward solving problems through the use of violence, Miller wrote. According to him, while aggressive rhetoric can only lead to the continuation of past violence, constructive dialogue, both public and private, can create peace, opportunity, and hope. The US is ready to support the efforts of both sides to sign a stable and dignified peace agreement, Miller emphasized. The United States is pleased to see that talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan have continued, according to a press statement by US Department of State spokesman Matthew Miller. As [US] Secretary [of State Antony] Blinken said, peace is achievable in the South Caucasus. We recently expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Pashinyans commitment to peace, and we welcome President Aliyevs recent remarks on consideration of amnesty, the press statement added. Recently, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev announced in the Azerbaijani-occupied city of Berdzor (Lachin) in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) that "today no one is talking about Karabakh's independence, autonomy or anything else." "The latest messages we are getting are as follows: what will be the fate of their 'leadership? Are they entitled to amnesty? And I say, we will see," Aliyev had added. Photo: The Canadian Press FILE - Workers on scaffolding repaint the NASA logo near the top of the Vehicle Assembly Building at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., May 20, 2020. (AP Photo/John Raoux, File) NASA held its first public meeting on UFOs on Wednesday a year after launching a study into unexplained sightings and insisted it's not hiding anything. The space agency televised the four-hour hearing featuring an independent panel of experts who vowed to be transparent. The team includes 16 scientists and other experts selected by NASA including retired astronaut Scott Kelly, the first American to spend nearly a year in space. I want to emphasize this loud and proud: There is absolutely no convincing evidence for extraterrestrial life associated with unidentified objects, NASA's Dan Evans said after the meeting. Still, hundreds of questions from the public that poured in ahead of time were skeptical and veered into conspiracy theories. NASA launched the study to probe what it calls UAPs short for unexplained anomalous phenomena in the sky, in space or under the sea. Optical illusions can explain some of this, said Kelly, a former Navy fighter pilot. He recalled a Tomcat flight off Virginia Beach years ago during which his radar intercept officer in the back seat was convinced theyd flown past a UFO. It turns out it was Bart Simpson, a balloon, Kelly said. And in my experience, the sensors kind of have the same issues as the peoples eyeballs. Evans pointed out that the livestream of the meeting led to considerable trolling. That comes on top of online abuse" directed toward several committee members. Harassment detracts from the scientific process and reinforces the stigma surrounding the topic, said Evans, adding that NASA security is dealing with it. Its precisely this rigorous, evidence-based approach that allows one to separate the fact from fiction," he said. The group is looking at what unclassified information is available on the subject and how much more is needed to understand what's going on in the sky, according to astrophysicist David Spergel, the committee's chair who runs the Simons Foundation. No secret military data are included, such as anything surrounding the suspected spy balloons from China spotted flying over the U.S. earlier this year. The meeting was held at at NASA headquarters in Washington with the public taking part remotely. A final report is expected by the end of July. In Armenia, the internet is uninhibited, the press is free, the elections are free. But I don't want to highlight this as an achievement or an accomplishment, I want to highlight [it] as a daily routine, which is the result of the joint work of all of us. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this in his address Wednesday at the Armenian Forum for Democracy being held in Yerevan. "When the non-violent, velvet peoples revolution that took place in 2018 and we were saying that democracy is the main brand of Armenia, many people were suspicious because they were saying: in the conditions of the post-revolutionary euphoria, the government does not need to restrict freedoms that much. But the fact that the Armenian Forum for Democracy took place in our country for the first time in 2022 and not in 2019, I believe [it's] quite a telling fact," Pashinyan said. "When we stressing the snap elections in 2018 being free, it was somewhat questioned, and what would the elections be like in other conditions? Unfortunately, those other conditions happened, and we recorded that the elections in other conditions are not less democratic and freeand that is the assessment of the international community. This does not mean that those elections were flawless, because the political atmosphere and political culture is an issue that still needs to be addressed," added the Armenian PM. He emphasized that democracy is the main brand of Armenia, and that this is their belief and strategy. "Very serious institutional reforms deriving from this are still underway [in Armenia], which should bring with them a higher level protection of human rights, rule of law, anticorruption policy. But, also, I want to say that Armenia also enjoys the results of these freedoms," the Armenian PM said. "I believe that the high economic growth that we have today is also the result of economic freedoms because if the economy were manageable and managed by the state, I believe that we would have had very serious and deep problems especially in the post-war period. But since these freedoms have also reached the level of the economy, came to our aid at the most difficult and decisive moment," Pashinyan emphasized. The PM stated that there is no internal threat to democracy in Armenia. "All possible threats to Armenia's democracy are external, and these threats are well-known and visible to everyone," Pashinyan stressed. The best iPhone and iPad models Which devices are worth paying attention to? Azerbaijan FM announces another meeting with Armenia in Washington in near future Azerbaijan MFA announces refusal to delimit borders with Armenia based on maps Armenia, Azerbaijan recognizing one anothers territorial integrity are political statements, Mirzoyan says Armenia FM: We did not receive Karabakh peoples mandate to negotiate their future, we are not negotiating Yerevan Vardavar Lake covered with thin layer, there are dead fish, report says Apple wants to create an iPhone without cutouts and holes on the screen: Face ID will be hidden under the screen (photo) Mirzoyan: Turkey never posited preconditions for normalization of relations with Armenia Floods, landslides kill 15 people in Haiti Armenia MFA expenses increased by 3.8% in 2022, finance minister says shamshyan.com: Large number of dead fish found in Yerevan small lake Custody of Armenia fallen soldiers mother is commuted to house arrest More than 85,000 tourists visit Armenia reserves, museums in May Wildberries launches a program to support new partners in CIS countries Turkey to increase fee for passage through Bosphorus, Dardanelles Jeep is developing off-road self-driving system Which Android smartphones will get integrated ChatGPT first? Karabakh Defense Army: Azerbaijan violated ceasefire, used rifles Ibrahimovic: Time has come to say goodbye to football (PHOTOS, VIDEO) La Liga: Barca lose to Celta La Liga: Benzema goal saves Real from defeat, Atletico miss out on win Armenian Defense Ministry: The statement disseminated by Azerbaijan is another disinformation Armenia Security Council head: There are many countries with which we are having arms purchase talks Security Council secretary: Unblocking means border guard service will be performed only by Armenia services Ukrainians will meet with success in counter-offensive Armenia Security Council chief: There is chance for peace treaty with Azerbaijan by years end 500 mil people rally in Warsaw against government Rally in support of Artsakh in Georgia $15 mil investment implemented in Jermuk Stoltenberg: Sweden has fulfilled its obligations Iraq, Syria FMs discuss tackling cross-border drug trafficking Muammar Gaddafi son on hunger strike Armenia PM sends condolences over train crash in India Peskov: Russia must finish the special operation Former Armenia president sends condolences to Indian PM New Finance Minister Simsek: Turkey must return to rational ground Erdogan, Stoltenberg meet in Istanbul Expert: Iran turns into Middle East gas hub Artsakh Defence: Azerbaijan distorts reality, tries to justify ceasefire violation Russia is the only country in Europe where food prices fell Belgian PM knocked out after falling off bike Uganda reports 54 peacekeepers killed in Somalia attack Germany to send two warships to Indo-Pacific Second floor of Yerevans SAS food court caught on fire India's railway minister names train crash cause Poland's opposition party holds anti-government rally Man falls under train and dies in Alaverdi China accuses Washington of 'maintaining hegemony' Governor Aksyonov: Crimea attacked by 9 UAVs 18-year-old Spitak resident found with cold weapon 44 parties, coalitions seek participation in Greek parliamentary elections Chinese warship nearly collides with US destroyer in Taiwan Strait Iran VP Mohammad Mokhber calls Turkey important strategic neighbo Death toll in India's train crash passes 300 Cavusoglu to be replaced as MFA Ombudsperson publishes report on aggression towards Armenians by Azerbaijani Armed Forces Death toll in India's train crash reaches 288 Armenia PM attends inauguration of Turkish President Erdogan RA President sends condolences regarding India train crash Armenian-American metallurgical plant is being built in Yeraskh Fresno State University students visit Armenian Genocide Memorial Delegation of 2 Argentina Parliament chambers visits Armenia RA Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan arrives in Turkey Ambassador to Belaus: Russia has no intention to cooperate with EEU countries to detriment of others Zelenskyy: Ukraine is ready for counterattack What are the most odd things people have ever asked ChatGPT? India investigates causes of major train disaster EU Ambassador to Armenia and Committee of Ministers members discuss RA justice reforms US envoy who caused Erdogan's displeasure to attend inauguration Death toll in India's train crash rises to 261 Typhoon hits Japan US State Secretary to visit Saudi Arabia Worst train crash in 40 years cancels nearly 50 trains in India Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry demands citizens not to visit Iran Over 80 country reps to take part in Turkish presidents inauguration Armenian community of Bulgaria rejects Armenia's position on Artsakh issue 53-year-old woman hit by car dies 15 schoolchildren face Gabriel Sargissian in open-air simultaneous display RA President and Synopsys Armenia head discuss IT industry development IOC President arrives in Baku Largest in last 40 years train crash in India James Webb space telescope discovers traces of water vapor on super-hot exoplanet MFA of Armenia saddened by tragic train accident in India Armenia MoD: Azerbaijani Defense Ministry's message is another disinformation Indian PM calls meeting over tragic train crash At least 288 dead in India train crash Agreement reached on Yeraskh-Julfa-Meghri-Horadiz route restoration Astronomers discover black hole with X-rays 60,000 times hotter than the sun's surface and 100,000 times brighter than the sun Armenian Defense Minister speaks with U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for Political Affairs Russian Defense Ministry records ceasefire violations in Nagorno-Karabakh Armenian Ministry of Defense: Azerbaijan spread disinformation again AI-controlled drone "kills" operator in simulated test, raises concerns about ethics and AI Armenias new Meghri border checkpoint groundbreaking ceremony held Armenias Pashinyan to attend inauguration ceremony of Turkeys Erdogan Team Telecom Armenia is undertaking its initial public offering (IPO) Caviar has unveiled a new iPhone with a built-in Rolex watch It costs about $123,000 Meeting of Armenia, Russia, Azerbaijan deputy PMs working group underway in Moscow Red Cross transports 18 medical patients from Karabakh to Armenia President meets with Karabakh MPs Russia presidential spox on Armenia PM statement: It is important, we take note of it The US ambassador to Armenia said she wanted to praise the Armenian people for their unwavering commitment to democracy in the face of security challenges. Kristina Kvien stated this in her address Wednesday at the Armenian Forum for Democracy being held in Yerevan. With this, Armenia becomes a bright spot in the region, which was noticed in the Nations in Transit report published last week by Freedom House. The US stands with Armenians on this path to a more open, more accountable, prosperous, and safer future, the ambassador added. Kvien emphasized that she is extremely proud of the work that the US is doing, together with the Armenian society, toward strengthening democracy and protecting human rights in Armenia. They take steps to eliminate discrimination and promote a society where diversity and the rights of all members of society are respected, regardless of their status and position, Kvien said. The US supports Armenia's efforts to fight corruption and strengthen the rule of law, which will increase Armenian public confidence in democratic processes, the US diplomat added. They work together to promote the freedom of the press and ensure the free flow of information freedom of speech in Armenia, Kvien noted. Also, they are building more resilient foundations for democracy in Armenia by promoting civic education and encouraging more active involvement by the countrys strong civil society, the US diplomat said. Together, they can overcome challenges and create a future where freedom, justice, and democracy prevail, Ambassador Kvien stated. The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) has given Azerbaijan until June 6 to provide information about the two detained Armenian servicemen, Armenian News-NEWS.am has learned from the Office of the Representative of Armenia on International Legal Matters. On the basis of the earlier petition submitted by the Armenian government, the ECtHR has made a decision and requested Azerbaijan to provide information, by June 6, whether the two Armenian servicemen were under the control of Azerbaijan in a captive or other status. And if so, the ECtHR has requested Azerbaijan provided information about the conditions of these servicemen's detention and medical examinations. On May 28, the Office of the Representative of Armenia on International Legal Matters submitted a petition to the ECtHR regarding the protection of the fundamental rights of the two Armenian servicemen held under the jurisdiction of Azerbaijan, and requested that an interim measure be applied against Azerbaijan in accordance with the ECtHR rules to prevent violations of the rights of these Armenian servicemen. At the same time, a request was made to provide information on the place of their detention, conditions, and health condition. In my speech, I did not say that democracy in Armenia has no challenges; I said that it has no internal threats. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia stated this in his remarks Wednesday at the Armenian Forum for Democracy being held in Yerevan, referring to the remark that Armenia continues to be a member of the CSTO and EAEU, where all the participants except Armenia are non-democratic countries, and to the question as to whether Armenia creates a risk for its democracy by being in such family of authoritarian countries. "In the sense that I consider democracy in Armenia to be irreversible from the internal point of view, whereas what dangers are there from the external point of view? I want to talk about our recent past," Pashinyan said. "On May 10, 2021, my resignation had taken effect and the parliament was dissolved, there was practically no government, no parliament in the country. And on May 12 the invasion of Azerbaijan in the Sotk-Khoznavar sector takes place; zero reaction [to that] from the CSTO." the Armenian PM noted. "Now there are high-ranking [Armenian] military officers arrested in a criminal case because at that time they had not taken any action to protect the sovereign territory of Armenia, and they had no explanation [for that]. If at that time our reactions had been very linear, now we would have lost both democracy and the state," Pashinyan said. And speaking about Armenia's external challenges, the premier said: "When the Ukraine [military] operations [by Russia] had started [last year], Armenia was trying to take balanced positions with its votes, etc.; and this was creating satisfaction among all partners. But over time, Armenia's [foreign policy] field of maneuver is narrowing; this is a serious challenge and problem for all of us." The head of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Armenia wants the latter to ratify the Istanbul Convention. Ambassador Andrea Wiktorin stated this in her remarks at the Armenian Forum for Democracy being held Wednesday in Yerevan. Wiktorin said she knows that there are people who will not like the sentence she uttered, but she repeats that it is for the protection of women. The EU diplomat expects that representatives of Armenian political society will be able to assist in this regard. As per the EU ambassador, there are Armenian NGOs that work very well in this regard. According to her, a lot of work is being done, but that work could have been much more. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia received Deputy Prime Minister Zsolt Semjen of Hungary, the PM's office informs Armenian News-NEWS.am The Prime Minister welcomed the visit of the Deputy Prime Minister of Hungary to our country and expressed satisfaction with the restoration of bilateral diplomatic relations after a long break. Nikol Pashinyan expressed hope that Armenia and Hungary will be able to fill in the gap in the shortest possible time. The Prime Minister noted that the Ambassador of Hungary to Armenia handed over his credentials to the President of Armenia, and now Semjen's visit is taking place, while the visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hungary to Armenia is expected in the near future. Nikol Pashinyan added that all this testifies to the mutual desire to bring bilateral cooperation to a new level. The Prime Minister emphasized the strengthening of Armenian-Hungarian ties in the context of Armenia-EU cooperation. Zsolt Semjen thanked for the warm welcome and conveyed to Nikol Pashinyan the greetings of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Semjen also attached importance to the restoration of bilateral diplomatic relations and emphasized the interest of the Hungarian government to develop and expand cooperation with Armenia. In that sense, he emphasized the important role of the Armenian community of Hungary. Prime Minister Pashinyan thanked the Hungarian government for the care and preservation of the Armenian cultural heritage. The parties emphasized the need to promote cooperation in the fields of economy, tourism, culture and education. In that regard, steps aimed at restoring direct air traffic between Yerevan and Budapest were highlighted. Zsolt Semjen, in turn, informed that the Hungarian government has initiated a scholarship program for Armenian students. Next, the interlocutors touched upon various issues of regional and international importance. Nikol Pashinyan presented the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh resulted by Azerbaijan's illegal blockade of the Lachin Corridor and emphasized that the local Armenians are experiencing a humanitarian crisis as a result. The Prime Minister recorded that the Azerbaijani side has stopped gas and electricity supplies from Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh, and food is transported only through peacekeepers. According to Nikol Pashinyan, all this being done by Azerbaijan pursues the goal to carry out ethnic cleansing and genocide in Nagorno-Karabakh. The Prime Minister highlighted the adequate response of the international community to what is happening. The Armenian side has always welcomed the efforts made by the US in the process of establishing peace, stability, and security in the South Caucasus. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Armenian has noted this in a comment on the press statement made by the spokesperson of the US State Department on Tuesday. We think it should be obvious to all our partners that in the process of normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, both the recognition of each other's territorial integrity and inviolability of borders based on the Alma-Ata Declaration and addressing the rights and security of the people of Nagorno Karabakh are key. As we emphasized in the statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia on May 29, the recognition of the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan cannot be interpreted as authority to carry out ethnic cleansing and against the people of Nagorno-Karabakh, the comment continues. It is impossible not to notice that the statements made by the President of Azerbaijan on May 28 not only did not offer dignified solutions to the above-mentioned problems, but also contained clear threats to the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Armenia and the right of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh to live in security and with dignity in their homeland, which the Armenian side has repeatedly raised the alarm. Our partners have been alerted about this many times, the comment adds. We believe that the United States, based on its own values of democracy and human rights protection and its commitment and involvement in the establishment of lasting peace in the region, should adequately respond to these statements in order to prevent the expansionist policy of the Azerbaijani leadership towards the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia and attempts of ethnic cleansing in Nagorno Karabakh, concludes the comment by the Armenian MFA. The head of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Armenia would like the civil society in the country to address hate speech as well. Ambassador Andrea Wiktorin stated this in her remarks at the Armenian Forum for Democracy being held Wednesday in Yerevan. According to her, this also applies to Armenias state institutions, where she sees that there is a need to tell how to act in a respective situation, and it is very important how to present criticism, but that it be constructive. As per the EU diplomat, the problem, the wound should be pointed out, but with the right method, and it is necessary to be critical, but be based on arguments. But this is not only a problem in Armenia, it is everywhere, added Wiktorin. The EU ambassador noted that Armenia has made great progress in this regard ever since 2007, and she sees. But it is indispensable to really try to grant the right to all aspects of Armenian society for a liberated and prosperous life, Andrea Wiktorin stated. Thank you for supporting our journalism. This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune. Luis Sinchi of Communities United, left, and Geronimo Abarca walk to Christ Lutheran Church in Chicago for an interview on March 21, 2023. Abarca and his family participated in an eviction diversion program. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune) A Cook County program implemented during the height of the pandemic to provide legal and financial support to landlords and tenants behind on their rent has dramatically slowed down the eviction process, drawing praise and pushback from renters and property owners. The initiative, known as the Early Resolution Program, launched in November 2020 when court systems across the country were strategizing how best to help administer billions of dollars in rental assistance and support tenants facing eviction. Advertisement The White House touted the program, which offers free legal aid, mediation services and connections to rental assistance, as one of the top eviction prevention innovations. But the innovation has brought additional challenges. Before the pandemic, it could take just a few weeks for a tenant to be evicted. Now it takes at least a couple of months. The slowdown, tenants attorneys argue, is necessary to ensure that everyone, including landlords, gets the help that they need. But the extra time leads to financial distress for property owners, argue landlords attorneys. Advertisement And a shortage of legal aid attorneys has further lengthened the process. There are also new questions about the future of rental assistance a primary component of settling eviction cases between landlords and tenants. The city recently put its rental assistance program on hold, and federal funds for rental assistance will likely run out by the end of summer in Cook County and by April 2024 in Chicago. Michelle Gilbert, legal and policy director for the Law Center for Better Housing one of the legal aid groups that is a part of the eviction diversion program said that eviction court still moves more quickly than any other type of court. When the landlords say, Its so long, then to me it is because it used to be ridiculously short, Gilbert said. It is longer than it used to be, but it gives people an opportunity to actually consult with an attorney. Michael Zink, a real estate attorney who mostly represents small landlords, said that while the program is well-intentioned, the long process forces some of his clients the majority of whom are people of color who own two- to four-unit buildings to dip into their retirement savings to continue to provide their other tenants with quality housing. In addition to not collecting rent during the eviction proceedings, landlords often incur $1,500 to $2,000 in legal expenses, he said. Advertisement Still trying to find the right balance In 2022, the first full year after pandemic moratoria on evictions were lifted, the number of evictions enforced by the Cook County sheriffs office stood at roughly 4,500, which was about 2,000 less than in 2019, according to the Tribunes analysis of data provided by the sheriffs office. Most evictions took place on the South and West sides in majority-Black and Latino communities, trends that line up with national data showing that racial minorities are more likely to face eviction. The pandemic disproportionately affected racial minorities, who were more likely to experience hardships such as job loss and illness. Advertisement Attorneys attribute the decline in evictions to the Early Resolution Program. Without eviction diversion programs and right-to-counsel laws, experts estimate that nationwide, 90% of landlords but only 10% of tenants would be represented by attorneys in court. The Early Resolution Program has made a number of changes to the way eviction proceedings are handled. A tenants first court date is scheduled about 35 days after a landlord files for eviction, a delay thats meant to give renters time to seek legal aid. That first court appearance is now reserved for partnering unrepresented tenants and small landlords with attorneys, instead of to receive an eviction judgment. And tenants can no longer receive a default judgment an automatic eviction when they dont show up to their first court date. Instead, the court reschedules the hearing for 14 days later to give the tenant another chance to participate in the legal process. The pairing of clients with attorneys takes about a week and a half, so eviction cases in Chicago include a 28-day continuance, and suburban cases include a 14-day continuance. Attorneys involved in eviction proceedings say it takes between one and three months for tenants to get approved for rental assistance and for landlords to receive the payments, adding to the slowdown. Bob Glaves, executive director of the Chicago Bar Foundation, which manages the Early Resolution Program, said the program currently has 12 case managers who refer people to 20 lawyers. He said the program could use eight to 10 more attorneys. Advertisement In an ideal world, Glaves said, it would be great if all tenants could meet with an attorney on their initial court date and receive an answer regarding rental assistance applications within two weeks. But, he said, the slowdown since the programs inception has already been reduced, and the current process provides renters with the opportunity to negotiate alternative solutions with their landlords. We are still trying to find the right balance, Glaves said. This (program) is not intended to be favoring tenants or landlords; it is trying to reach a more fair and efficient solution. Glaves added that a quarter of eviction cases are settled in the Early Resolution Program, with more being settled afterward. Geronimo Abarca, 52, a resident of Albany Park and restaurant worker, got his eviction case settled thanks to the program. Due to a kidney tumor and the pandemic, he was unable to work for months, leading him to fall behind on rent payments for the apartment where he lived for years with his wife and son. Its a very, very frustrating and stressful situation, Abarca said in Spanish, about not being able to work and pay rent. He received rental assistance, yet when he gave the check to his landlord, his landlord said the check couldnt be cashed, Abarca said. Advertisement Abarca then told his landlord the restaurant where he worked was going to open again, and hed be able to pay his rent soon. After returning to work, he was able to pay rent for a few past-due months, he said. But his landlord wanted the full payment of back rent owed and eventually filed an eviction. Geronimo Abarca smiles while looking at Luis Sinchi of Communities United during an interview at Christ Lutheran Church in Chicago on March 21, 2023. Abarca and his family participated in an eviction diversion program. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune) Abarca had already been looking for places to move, so he left a few days after he received the notice. Once he was in court, the judge dismissed the case since Abarca no longer lived in the apartment, and Abarcas attorney successfully argued that he should not have to pay the $8,800 in rent owed since the landlord never provided the fridge and stove that had been promised. Everything turned out all right, thanks to God and thanks to them, Abarca said, referring to his advocates from the eviction diversion program. Landlords and their attorneys said some tenants take advantage of the delays. Ryan Sinwelski, 40, had a tenant who did this, one he had been trying to evict for nearly a year. According to Sinwelski, his tenant evaded service of the eviction order for months. Then, his tenant failed to show up for her first court hearing. When the tenant did appear two weeks later, she refused to go through the eviction diversion program and demanded a trial instead, which happened months later. At that trial, Sinwelski said the tenant asked for her security deposit back, asked that her eviction record be sealed and said she would then vacate the property. Sinwelski acquiesced because he wanted the tenant to move out. Advertisement She knows she can drag this out for a long time and get a lot of free rent out of it, Sinwelski said. While his tenant is an extreme example, the case illustrates how difficult the updated eviction process can make it for landlords to continue offering affordable housing, Sinwelski said. Landlord Ryan Sinwelski stands outside the multiunit rental building he owns in Harvey on April 6, 2023. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune) Sinwelski owns a two-flat and four-flat in Harvey, a south suburb in Cook County and a generational home for his family . He hopes to help revitalize Harvey through restoring and preserving properties that are distressed something the city is known for but he had to put off making improvements to the building in the last year given that his recently evicted tenant did not pay him around $9,000 in rent. Since Sinwelski bought the four-flat last June, he has only lost money on the property, he said. Advertisement Funding in question On May 15, Chicagos Department of Housing canceled its contract with the Resurrection Project, the organization that had been in charge of administering rental assistance. Rima Alsammarae, spokesperson for Chicagos Department of Housing, said in a May 17 statement that the city is working with the courts and the Early Resolution Program to minimize disruption and resume taking new applications as soon as possible, as we value this program and are proud of its impact on Chicagoans. She declined to comment on why the Resurrection Project is no longer the administrator of the court-based rental assistance program. The Resurrection Project said in a statement that it will no longer be administering the funds as the pandemic and resources for the program wane and that the Department of Housing has decided to move in a different direction, and they will administer the programs final phase. Zink, the small landlords attorney, said the pause in doling out rental assistance will at the very least make housing providers even less likely to consider a rental assistance solution, if there is no rental assistance even available and jeopardize tenants housing and make it harder for housing providers, especially smaller ones, to pay for upkeep of the property. Advertisement The Resurrection Projects statement said the organization helped more than 18,000 families stay in their homes. One of these individuals is Davey Vacek. Vacek, 36, lived in Edgewater with his partner until about a year into the pandemic. Then, his partner left him, and he lost his job as an event planner, forcing Vacek to pay their full rent, $1,500, Vacek said. Vacek fell behind on his payments. When he left me and he stopped paying his half of the rent, I just started to really decline in my own mental health, Vacek said. Vacek said he spoke with his landlord about his situation and filed for rental assistance, so he was shocked when he received an eviction notice. He was connected to the Early Resolution Program, which helped get his rental assistance approved for five months of back rent and three months of future rent payments. Advertisement While Vacek eventually faced eviction again and had to leave his apartment, he said the eviction diversion programs assistance was crucial. I couldnt imagine navigating all of that without (legal) help, said Vacek, who had not faced eviction until the pandemic. I can speak a few languages, but legalese is not one of them. Alsammarae said the department is hopeful that once federal funds for rental assistance run out next year, other resources will be available. The county is considering appropriating additional funds for rental assistance, as well as asking the state for more resources and looking for federal opportunities for funding, according to Nick Mathiowdis, spokesperson for Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkles office. Chicagos Department of Family and Support Services has a smaller amount of funds, typically a few hundred thousand prior to the pandemic, available for distribution. Advertisement Gilbert of the Law Center for Better Housing said she is optimistic a smaller pot of money for rental assistance will be enough, as people wont be facing eviction for many thousands of dollars like they were during the height of the pandemic. Instead, she said, tenants may be behind $1,000-$2,000. But if theres not enough money, Robert Kahn, a landlords attorney, said, the eviction diversion program will no longer be viable. I do believe that the program is working in the right direction, Kahn said. However, once rental assistance dries up, this program is going to have to go by the wayside because there is not much of a negotiation once they cant get rental assistance. Chicago Tribunes Joe Mahr contributed. Leaders and supporters of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) conferred with US Senator Robert MenendezChairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committeeto encourage the US Federal Government to back the right to self-determination for the indigenous Armenians in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), ANCA reported. The US President Biden Administration is currently facilitating talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan that would integrate democratic Artsakh into Azerbaijan, a genocidal state led by petro-dictator Ilham Aliyev. The ANCA is on record strongly objecting to the Biden Administrations reckless foreign policy on Armenian issues and has been urging US Congressional leaders to reverse a policy that would lead to a second Armenian Genocide, against the families of Artsakh. Several gatherings in support of Senator Menendez and his re-election campaign were held in the State of California and included the participation of individuals from across the United States. These individuals were Democrats, Republicans, and Independentswho all support the Senator because of his principled position that the Armenians of Artsakh deserve the same rights as Americans enjoy to live in freedom under a government of their own choosing. Late last year, Chairman Menendez held a hearing that led to a stinging indictment of the US policy on Azerbaijan, charging that the State Department witnesses testifying at the hearing were wholly unresponsive to concerns about the ongoing waiver of Section 907 restrictions on US aid to Azerbaijan and the lack of meaningful US assistance to Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh) and Armenia following Azerbaijani attacks. Former Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried and former State Department Senior Advisor for Caucasus Negotiations Philip Reeker were witnesses at the November 16, 2022 Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing titled Assessing U.S. Policy in the Caucasus. Both Donfried and Reeker are no longer employed by the US Department of State. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia received Paul Gavan, the first Deputy Chairman of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) Committee on Migration, Refugees and Displaced Persons, the PM's office informs Armenian News-NEWS.am. The latter arrived in Armenia on a fact-finding mission within the framework of the preparation of the report "Ensuring free and safe access through the Lachin Corridor". In this context, issues related to the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno Karabakh resulted by Azerbaijan's ongoing illegal blockade of the Lachin corridor were discussed. The Prime Minister noted that the Azerbaijani side has stopped gas and electricity supplies from Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh, and food is transported only through peacekeepers. Noting that all this being done by Azerbaijan pursues the goal to carry out ethnic cleansing and genocide in Nagorno-Karabakh, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for an adequate response of the international community to what is happening. The meeting of the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, with the Prime Minister of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, and the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, in Moldova is planned for Thursday, reports RIA Novosti, citing the press service of the head of the European Council. The meeting is expected to take place on June 1, within the framework of the session of the European Political Community, the respective statement notes. As the Armenian PMs office reported earlier, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and his wife Anna Hakobyan have left for Moldova on a working visit, from Wednesday to Friday. In Chisinau, the Armenian premier will attend in the second summit of the European Political Community. Within the framework of this event, the PM will have bilateral meetings with international colleagues, too. A five-way meeting between the Armenian Prime Minister, the French President, the German Chancellor, the European Council President, and the Azerbaijan President is also planned in the Moldovan capital. A new meeting of the tripartite working group of Russia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia will take place soon, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk told reporters on Wednesday, TASS reports. According to him, an agreement was reached Wednesday that a new meeting of this working group will take place "in the very near future." Earlier, Overchuk had stated that he plans to discuss technical, "but very important" details with the deputy PMs of Armenia and Azerbaijan in a week. According to him, it is about the procedure for crossing the Azerbaijan-Armenia border. Speaker of the Republic of Armenia National Assembly (RA NA), Alen Simonyan, on Wednesday received the delegation led by the chairman of Argentina-Armenia Friendship Group of the parliament of Argentina, Guillermo Andrada. Welcoming the guests, Simonyan noted that Armenia attaches great importance to relations with Argentina based on mutual respect and common values, Armenian News-NEWS.am has learned from the NA news department. He particularly underscored the role of bilateral inter-parliamentary cooperation, stressing that for the first time it became possible for the delegation of the two Chambers of Parliament of Argentina, the delegation of Friendship Groups with Armenia to visit Armenia. The parties spoke about the Armenian community in Argentina, which is a special bridge in Armenia-Argentina bilateral relations. Reference was made to multi-sectoral cooperation with Argentina. The RA NA President mentioned that Armenia creates a good opportunity for economic exchanges as a EAEU member state and can be an additional transit point to the Eurasian market, and the EAEU-MERCOSUR interaction can open new doors of cooperation. The interlocutors highly valued the close cooperation established between the two countries within the framework of international organizations, as well as the level of political dialogue. Simonyan reaffirmed that Armenia comes up with the agenda of establishing stable peace in the region. He expressed gratitude for the adoption of a statement by the Senate of Argentina on December 21, 2022 condemning and calling on Azerbaijan to unblock the Lachin corridor. The Argentine lawmakers considered the establishment of peace and stability in Armenias region as key, expressing willingness to contribute to these processes within the framework of their powers. Paruyr Hovhannisyan, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday received Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) Rapporteur Paul Gavan (Ireland), who is in Armenia on a fact-finding mission for the report on Addressing the humanitarian consequences of the blockade of the Lachin corridor. Evidence-based report on the violations of human rights resulting from the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh and the importance of sending an international fact-finding mission to the Lachin corridor were emphasized during the talk, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia informs Armenian News-NEWS.am. The press statement made by the US State Department Spokesperson on 30 May, in which he welcomed the recent statements of the President of Azerbaijan on the readiness to consider the issue of the so-called amnesty for the residents of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), causes deep disappointment and bewilderment. This is stated in the response of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Artsakh to the statement of the representative of the US State Department. "It is inexplicable how in this statement of the President of Azerbaijan, entirely built on open blackmail and coercion, one could find something positive that deserves encouragement. Obviously, the main message of the Azerbaijani presidents statement was the refusal of Azerbaijan from an equal dialogue with the democratically elected authorities of the Republic of Artsakh and the desire to impose their own authority on the people of Artsakh by force. We have no doubts about the efforts of the United States to play a positive role in achieving a just, balanced and dignified settlement of the Azerbaijan-Karabakh conflict and in establishing lasting peace in the region. At the same time, we believe that the encouragement of Baku's destructive and belligerent policy runs counter to the desire to achieve positive developments in the peaceful settlement of the conflict," the response says. Thank you for supporting our journalism. This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune. The comedy operation Drunk Shakespeare, wherein an actor drinks copious qualities of pre-show alcohol for comedic purposes, is facing a unionization demand from workers at its franchise on Wabash Avenue in Chicagos Loop. But its not about the booze. Advertisement According to server Ella Fent, the cast and crew have alleged inaccurate paychecks and other forms of mismanagement, often forcing them to keep track of their own hours and correct accounting errors, and to deal with understaffing and chaotic scheduling. Fent also said that the waitstaff, many of whom are also actors, help set up many of the comic bits in the show and handle props, both tasks that the union Actors Equity generally would deem roles that belong to a stage management team. Fent did say that the company generally takes good care of the drunk actor, sending them home in an Uber. The show rotates which actor will get drunk and then work with an otherwise sober ensemble. Advertisement A spokesman for the Actors Equity union said that 100% of the company has signed union cards requesting voluntary recognition. He also said that the use of alcohol in the show was all the more reason to need union representation. In recent months, the union has become more aggressive about organizing workers in productions that are different from the historical norm, a group that recently has included museum lecturers and strippers. There are Drunk Shakespeare franchises currently running in Houston, New York, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. Emails requesting comment from the producers, Brass Jar Productions, have not yet been returned. Chris Jones is a Tribune critic. cjones5@chicagotribune.com At the Black Archives in Overtown, a group of students gazed at the remnants of a scorched cross that was planted at a Miami Shores church by the Ku Klux Klan. In Little Havana, they stood solemnly in front of the monument and a flame that commemorates the death of members of the 2506 Brigade, who fell during the Bay of Pigs Invasion in Cuba. All 28 students enrolled in the University of Miami School of Communication course Covering Global Issues in Miami were experiencing the amalgam of cultures and ethnic enclaves that make up Miami. The interdisciplinary course attracted 26 students from the Universidad de Navarra in Spain, who are studying global journalism. The class exposes these students, many of whom will be future journalists, to the intricacies of covering global issues in a way that is sensitive to the varying cultures, ethnicities, and communities, said Sallie Hughes, School of Communication professor and associate dean for Global Initiatives. The aim of the course is to make them aware that globalization is grounded in different communities, in peoples lives, said Hughes. Miami is the perfect place to do this. Exploring various themes, which include migration, equity, media, and climate change, Covering Global Issues in Miami pairs classroom lectures and exercises with field trips to various iconic communities, including Little Haiti, Liberty City, Little Havana, Coconut Grove, and Overtown. In their visits, the students also met with community leaders, county government officials, and journalists who all briefed them about their work. Mercedes Medina, a communications professor from the Universidad de Navarra, escorted the group from Spain who are enrolled in a bilingual program called Global Journalism. Miami is the central place to learn all that is happening in America. We believe Miami to be the capital of America, she said. Miami is a city so international that it allows them to experience the many cultures and the many problems that exist in todays world. The students also took part in morning lectures from experts in their fields. These included Michael Bustamante, associate professor of history and the Emilio Bacardi Moreau Chair in Cuban and Cuban-American Studies at the University, who offered the students a thorough overview of the Cuban exile community. Valeria Silvacoa, a student from Universidad de Navarra, said she felt that after the lecture, the tour of Little Havana brought Bustamantes words to life. I got to experience the culture with all its tastes and sounds, she said. One nice man at Domino Park even taught me the art of playing dominoes, Cuban style. During the visit to the Black Archives in Overtown, Kamila E. Prichett, the executive director of the archives, spoke with the students about the history of racism in Miami and its implications today. It was that type of community engagement that drew Zanolee Grant, an M.F.A. graduate student at the University, to take the course. I think one of the best takeaways of this course is the fact that it puts the community front and center, she said. It helps us [as journalists] . . . to report what we see, but also it helps us to bring humanity and others into a project. Donette Francis, director for the Center for Global Black Studies and associate professor of English, shared the hidden stories of Black Miami and the work of writers, filmmakers, artists, and intellectuals with the students. Rene Rodriguez, School of Communication lecturer and manager of the Bill Cosford Cinema, gave a presentation on how Miami has been portrayed in films from the 1940s to present day. The class is a collaboration that included the aforementioned instructors and Universidad de Navarra assistant professor Aurken Sierra, as well as other School of Communication faculty members. Among them are Alberto Cairo, Kim Grinfeder, Gina Presson, and Vinicius Sueiro, with support from Ph.D. students Hannah Artman, Luis Garcia Conde, and Kyle Walkine. Grouped into six teams, the students will develop multimedia projects about the neighborhoods and global issues they studied. Each team will present its project at the end of the course. The classroom lectures really impressed Sergio Duran, a student from Universidad de Navarra, who wants to be a political analyst. I have found all the lectures very professional, and all the professors are very competent, he said. Listening to Professor Cairo, learning how to use graphics, and learning that graphics do not only include math but logic as wellit all makes sense. Mount St. Marys University President Timothy E. Trainor. Ph.D., today announced that Raphael Della Ratta, C92, has made a major gift to fund the Climb the Mount initiative in support of the universitys mission. Della Ratta is a member of the Mounts Board of Trustees and a long-time supporter of the liberal arts at the university. The Climb the Mount initiative recognizes that three intersecting areas of the undergraduate experience at the Mount accelerate students on the path to leading lives of significance in service to God and others, said Trainor. The Mount community is deeply appreciative of Raphael Della Rattas generous gift that will provide support for students in the ascent along their educational journey at the university. Under the Climb the Mount initiative, students are led through a self-discovery process as part of the integrated core curriculum. Next, students are introduced to avenues to leave campus to interact with the world beyond Emmitsburg. Finally, the university assists students in securing external academic opportunities that will launch them to purpose-driven lives and successful careers. Raphael Della Rattas transformational gift is meant to achieve three strategic initiatives: strengthen our core curriculum through an investment in the First-Year Symposium, increased support to our marvelous Study Abroad programming, and assisting the Office of Competitive Fellowships in providing aid to our ambitious students to secure world-class fellowships, grants, and internships, said Dean of the College of Liberal Arts Bryan Zygmont, Ph.D. Together, these three programs impact each student we teach at the Mount. My intent is for the Climb the Mount initiatives impact to be both immediate and enduring, Della Ratta said. It will transform the lives of students both during their time at the Mount and long after they leave campus. The Know Yourself segment of the initiative focuses on ensuring that the instruction of First-Year Symposium classes is provided by full-time professors who are equipped to impact students minds, hearts and lives from within the classroom. The Mount is recruiting current faculty members with a proven record of excellence in instruction to also teach this foundational course. In addition, the university is hiring two early-career faculty members who will focus on teaching sections of First-Year Symposium and other core curriculum courses that align with their areas of academic interest. The First-Year Symposium program is led by Edward Egan, J.D., who also directs the Pre-Law Program. Della Ratta, president of Commercial Management Company, graduated from the Mount in 1992 with a bachelors degree in English and a minor in philosophy. He recalls the two-semester freshman seminar course as a great introduction to what was expected of new students in the classroom of a liberal arts college. Thirty years later, he still remembers the pedagogical experience and vocations and meaningful work units as providing great insights. The working unit urged students to consider what makes for a meaningful career after graduation, he said. The other two components of the Climb the Mount initiative, titled Know Your World and Change Our World, are not all-encompassing like the core curriculum improvements, but their impact on those who participate is limitless. Know Your World seeks to enhance the Mounts study abroad program by further diversifying the locations of the universitys international offerings, making such programs more affordable and increasing administrative support for the program. These efforts would allow more students to participate and holistically realize their place in the world. The Mounts study abroad program is directed by Chair of the Department of Political Science Amanda Krause, Ph.D. While Della Ratta did not study abroad during his four years at the Mount, he traveled internationally before college. Im fortunate that I had done some international travel before college, he shared. Given that I have a lot of family in Italy, I was able at an early age to appreciate the value of extended periods in a foreign country. The Change Our World section of the Climb the Mount initiative provides resources for the Office of Competitive Fellowships to support students in pursuing prestigious external fellowships, internships and grants. These highly competitive awards launch students to successful careers and lives. Since its establishment in 2015, the Office of Competitive Fellowships has helped students win seven Barry M. Goldwater Scholarships, eight Fulbright English Teaching Assistant awards, three Fulbright Study/Research awards, two Fulbright US-UK Summer Institute grants and more, including a Department of Defense SMART Scholarship, a Boren Scholarship and semi-finalist accolades for the Marshall Scholarship to Cambridge University. The program, directed by Associate Professor of History Jamie Gianoutsos, Ph.D., from its inception through the 2022-23 academic year, is now led by Professor of World Languages and Cultures Christine Blackshaw, Ph.D. After attending the end-of-year reception for the Fellowships program, Della Ratta observed: The awardees have such an obvious passion for their fields of study and their enthusiasm for their next adventure is great to see. I imagine some students come to the end of their MSM career and really wonder, "Whats next?" Not so for these students. Graduation for them is the starting point for a fellowship that they have worked years to develop and achieve. Read more about Raphael Della Ratta: Raphael Della Ratta Donates Capstone Gift to Forward! Campaign Lives of Significance: Raphael Della Ratta, C92 Joyous moment: Bailey Warner of Carbondale, who earned an associate degree in arts with honors from Southeastern Illinois College in Harrisburg earlier this month, reacts after recently receiving a Provosts Scholarship from SIU Carbondale officials. A member of the colleges Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, Warner will be a pre-music major at SIU. (Photo and video courtesy of Southeastern Illinois College) SIU Carbondale awards Provosts Scholarships to community college students by Pete Rosenbery CARBONDALE, Ill. Sixteen high achieving community college students from Illinois, Arkansas and Kansas have received Southern Illinois University Carbondales 2023 Provosts Scholarships, which cover tuition and mandatory fees for two years. These remarkable students several of them in our own backyard have imagined a better future and have worked hard toward making it a reality. Thats why they are receiving the Provosts Scholarship, Chancellor Austin A. Lane said. To see the delight on their faces when we surprise them with our universitys highest honor for transfer students is a joy. Scholarships like this fit in well with our Imagine 2030 strategic plan, which includes a pillar for student success and engagement. We look forward to welcoming our Provosts Scholars to campus this fall. The students selected demonstrate high academic achievement, a strong record of leadership in their communities and participate in numerous extracurricular activities. Several recipients received surprise personal visits from university officials. (Watch a brief video.) The scholarship is valued at over $31,000. The students, by hometown, name, community college and primary program major, are: ILLINOIS Aurora: Juan Chiu, Waubonsee Community College, civil engineering. Benton: Audrey Gulley, Rend Lake College, political science. Carbondale: Bailey Warner, Southeastern Illinois College, pre-music. Carlyle: Zachary Kampwerth, Kaskaskia College, agribusiness economics. Cisne: Grace Milligan, Illinois Eastern Community Colleges, undecided. Columbia: Lydia Dowell, Southwestern Illinois College, art. Crystal Lake: Chase Lotito, McHenry County College, electrical engineering. Geneva: Carlos Gomez, Waubonsee Community College, history. Hoffman Estates: Margaret Krupp, Harper College, radiologic sciences. Marion: Alexis Edwards, John A. Logan College, elementary education. New Berlin: Dain Richie, Parkland College, finance. Sherman: Josie Dame, Lincoln Land Community College, health care management. Tamms: Daisha Carthell, Shawnee Community College, physical therapist assistant. Washington: Miles Niehaus, Illinois Central College, pre-music. ARKANSAS Success: Makayla Ward, Crowleys Ridge College, zoology. KANSAS Junction City: Ashlynn Shea, Barton Community College, zoology. An article about all of the 2023 Chancellors and Provosts Scholars will be published this fall. PRNewswire Bangalore (Karnataka) [India], May 31: The latest Colliers' report 'Global Occupier Outlook 2023', highlights key takeaways and insights on the evolving global workplace. The report reveals that APAC occupiers are grappling with the complexities of the hybrid work model, which remains inconsistent across markets and industries. The lack of clarity and macroeconomic uncertainty are posing challenges for businesses in projecting their space requirements. According to Colliers' experts, companies are facing the dilemma of striking a balance between providing employees with desired flexibility and realigning their portfolios for the next evolution of the workplace. Consequently, many businesses are deferring decisions on office take up and investment. Despite these challenges across the globe, occupiers in India have been quick to adopt flex spaces, attracted by the flexibility, agility, and cost-effectiveness. Flex spaces are becoming an integral part of occupiers' portfolio, with its share in occupiers' total portfolio rising to an estimated 10-12 per cent in 2023, from 5-8 per cent before the pandemic in 2019, as per interactions with industry experts. Colliers' leadership Sam Harvey-Jones, Chief Operating Officer, Asia Pacific and Mike Davis, Managing Director, Occupier Services, Asia Pacific in their recent visit to India note the positive market sentiments echoed by the Indian occupiers, particularly within the technology sector to adapt to the changing landscape with a focus on increasing flex space, using data to help in informed decision making and focus on the employee experience. Harvey-Jones said, "The APAC region is undergoing a significant transformation in the way workspaces are perceived and utilized. While challenges persist, this period of change presents unprecedented opportunities to reimagine the role of space and explore new approaches that cater to evolving employee needs. The research finds APAC occupiers are shifting from an 'inward' business view of what's important in an office or location, to an 'external' view of what locations gives their employees access to in terms of culture, lifestyle and wellness." Davis added, "Adopting technology solutions such as digital tools and dashboards is critical for addressing the challenges posed by the hybrid workforce. These tools enable occupiers to optimize space utilization, implement safety measures, and make data-driven decisions." Colliers has developed tools that integrate various data sources to provide a comprehensive view and facilitate informed decision-making. Key trends witnessed by Occupiers across the globe The report features insights and resilient strategies being adopted by real estate decision makers to prepare for an uncertain future, adapt to emerging market trends and overcome unprecedented challenges. Focusing on three key aspects, Engage, Evolve and Accelerate, the findings uncover efforts being made by some of the leading global companies to strengthen processes, build resilience, and meet complex needs, with the aim to enrich the workplace experience. Shining a spotlight on the ESG framework and the adoption of pioneering technology, the importance of a sustainable workplace is highlighted. Since over 65% of workers are seeking more in-person time with their teams, companies across the globe are investing in green design, tech-enabled features that promote higher health & safety, and wellbeing amenities, among others. Readers can also learn of other crucial factors occupiers are focused on including the right location, DEI initiatives, digital tools, and the precise portfolio mix. Further, as remote work gained momentum and proved to be effective, the big question of which work model augments productivity and business growth is addressed. Across the APAC region, occupiers are keen on realigning their office portfolios to meet business needs while providing the flexibility employees' desire. The right portfolio is key to keeping culture intact, attracting and retaining best talent, and controlling operational costs. India has always been a large and growing market when it comes to commercial real estate. Despite the lingering threat of the pandemic, the scare of a recession and geopolitical tensions, the investor sentiment both global and domestic, remains strong. A number of industries including tech, ecommerce, 3PL, consulting and manufacturing have witnessed rapid growth over the past few quarters and are the demand drivers for office assets across the country. India occupiers quick to adopt flex space Occupiers in India have been quick to adopt flex spaces, attracted by the flexibility, agility, and cost-effectiveness they offer. Flex spaces are becoming an integral part of occupiers' portfolio, with its share in occupiers' total portfolio rising to 10-12% in 2023, from 5-8% before the pandemic in 2019, as per interactions with industry experts. Going forward, flex spaces will continue to see strong growth, as they continue to support occupiers in realigning their portfolios and space considerations to suit a hybrid working style while leveraging technology & sustainability to improve efficiency and employee experience. Peush Jain, Managing Director, Office Services, India, said, "Flex spaces have emerged as a core strategy for occupiers to adopt a decentralized workspace model, serving as a promising alternative to the traditional paradigm. As compared to shorter lease tenures of 1-2 years pre-pandemic, occupiers are now going for longer commitments of 3-5 years with flex space operators as they look to integrate flex space as a long-term solution. During 2022, leasing by flex space operators touched 7 mn sq ft across top 6 cities, highest in any year. This was a 46% YoY increase led by prominent IT hubs such as Bengaluru and Pune." As of Q1 2023, India's flex space penetration stands at 6.5% and continues to expand, led by occupiers' rapid adoption of hybrid & de-centralised work strategy in a bid to build new age workspaces at an optimal cost. Other markets in the APAC region have seen relatively slower growth in flex space, with flex space penetration hovering around 2-4%. Flex spaces have also provided companies the agility required to scale operations up or down quickly, allowing businesses to respond effectively to evolving circumstances. Trends in flex space leasing (Mn sq ft) Notes:Data pertains to Grade A buildingsData pertains to top 6 cities- Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, Mumbai and PuneGross absorption does not include pre-commitments and lease renewals Tech in Flex We are seeing in India that technology occupiers have been one of the driving forces of rising flex space demand across the top cities. They currently occupy over 50% of the total flex space across Chennai, Delhi-NCR, Pune and Hyderabad as per industry experts. Other major sectors that are actively embracing hybrid working through flex include Engineering & Manufacturing and BFSI. In larger markets such as Mumbai and Bengaluru, demand by BFSI & Engineering occupiers for flex space is almost at par with Technology occupiers. Demand from Technology occupiers will continue to remain strong in next two years led by a strong recovery and robust hiring plans as businesses continue to focus on rationalizing costs. Hybrid in Office Across industries, occupiers are in the process of reassessing their current office footprint to assess, review & determine the most optimal mix for their employees. Several organizations are looking forward to pivoting to some form of a hybrid model for the foreseeable future - blending remote work and physical presence in offices. Despite the experience of working from home for more than two years, major occupiers believe that the physical presence of workers is critical at some regular interval. Hybrid working model has brought flex spaces to the centre stage and has helped occupiers in optimizing costs and ensuring employee flexibility. The hybrid working pattern has reset expectations of the future workplace and has opened new possibilities for how much flexibility employees can have in choosing, 'where to work.' Companies are now opting distributed workspace strategy to ensure easy commute for their employees, over having one large central headquarter. This has spurred demand for flex spaces across peripheral locations and non-metro cities. Non metro cities such as Ahmedabad, Coimbatore, Indore, Jaipur, Kochi and Lucknow are witnessing heightened activity in flex spaces. This trend is prominent amongst Technology, Consulting and E-commerce companies who are establishing multiple satellite offices in these locations. Technology and sustainability to drive future workplaces Developers are increasingly taking cognizance of the evolving needs of occupiers and the need to integrate smart technology to attract tenants. Inclusion of digital infrastructure and smart facilities shall also contribute to achieving greater operational efficiency, reduce energy consumption and higher customer retention. Offices will continue to evolve as firms seek to re-invent their workspaces and incorporate touchless technology and next generation collaboration tools. We expect firms to integrate smart technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) and predictive analytics for cost optimization and better space utilization. While green buildings are not a new trend, they are garnering significant interest from occupiers as optimal energy usage and automated services remain key focus areas. During 2022, about 81% of the new office supply across top 6 cities was green certified. Going forward, demand for green certified buildings will continue to rise as occupiers continue to chase green certified buildings to ensure that the workplace meets environmental, energy, and health standards in its design, construction, and performance. Colliers is a leading diversified professional services and investment management company. With operations in 66 countries, our 18,000 enterprising professionals work collaboratively to provide expert real estate and investment advice to clients. For more than 28 years, our experienced leadership with significant inside ownership has delivered compound annual investment returns of approximately 20% for shareholders. With annual revenues of USD 4.5 billion and USD 98 billion of assets under management, Colliers maximizes the potential of property and real assets to accelerate the success of our clients, our investors and our people. Learn more at corporate.colliers.com, Twitter @Colliers or LinkedIn. Media Contact:Sukanya DasguptaHead of Marketing & Communications | Indiasukanya.dasgupta@colliers.com+91 981 186 7682 (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) VMPL New Delhi [India], May 31: In today's fast-paced world, where time and distance are often big problems for getting an education, the IMTS Institute has become a beacon of hope for a lot of students. The IMTS Institute is changing the way people learn and teach by taking a new approach to online education and online classes. By using the power of technology, the IMTS Institute gives students more control over their education, breaks down barriers, and makes a good education available to everyone. Through online education and online classes, the IMTS Institute is at the forefront of empowering education and breaking down barriers. By embracing technology and making the most of its potential, the IMTS Institute has given a lot of students new opportunities and made it possible for them to pursue their educational goals without limits. Through accessibility, flexibility, quality education, personalized approaches, and robust support systems, the IMTS Institute is revolutionizing the educational landscape and empowering students to reach new heights of success. With the IMTS Institute, the power of knowledge knows no boundaries, and the opportunities for growth and learning are limitless. Over 60,000 Success Stories and Counting: IMTS Institute's Remarkable Track Record in Student Achievements Recognized as a premier educational institution in India, IMTS Institute boasts an impressive track record of over 60,000 students passing. Graduates from the institute have consistently excelled in prestigious companies both in India and abroad. The institute has garnered glowing reviews from its students, and IMTS Institute takes pride in its strong support system, ensuring that students never feel alone in their educational journey. From academic counselors to technical support teams, a dedicated network of professionals is readily available to assist students at every step. Whether it's clarifying doubts, providing guidance on course selection, or addressing technical issues, students can rely on the IMTS Institute's support services for a seamless learning experience. IMTS Institute understands that quality education is paramount for students to succeed in their chosen fields. With a dedicated team of experienced educators and subject matter experts, the IMTS Institute ensures that the online classes maintain the same high standards as traditional classroom settings. Through interactive sessions, engaging course materials, and personalized attention, students receive a comprehensive education that equips them with the knowledge and skills required to excel. IMTS Institute's commitment to excellence has earned them an unrivaled reputation in the industry, leading to their plans to expand into new horizons. The institute is now setting its sights on Dubai, with preparations underway to establish a new office in the near future. This bold move marks an exciting new chapter in the institute's journey, solidifying its position as a global leader in education. At the IMTS Institute, education is not merely a concept but a transformative experience. The IMTS Institute is committed to providing top-notch education to students regardless of their location, and it does so with the help of a highly qualified and skilled faculty and a strong support system of over 200 career counselors. Focusing on career-oriented individuals, the institute strives to empower its students to reach the pinnacle of success through its unparalleled educational programs. Breaking barriers with the IMTS Institute's Learning Programs If your location has been a hindrance to accessing quality education, bid farewell to your worries with IMTS Institute's innovative distance learning programs. Specifically tailored for individuals residing in various parts of the world, IMTS' distance learning programs are designed to be nothing short of exceptional. But don't just take our word for it--let's hear from IMTS alumni who can provide insights into the institute's offerings and reputation. IMTS Institute's Personalized Approach: One of the key aspects that sets IMTS Institute apart is its personalized approach to online education. Recognizing that each student is unique with different learning styles and preferences, the IMTS Institute provides customized learning experiences. Through one-on-one interactions, virtual discussions, and collaborative projects, students can actively engage with their instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and promoting a deeper understanding of the subject matter. IMTS Support and Guidance IMTS Institute takes pride in its strong support system, ensuring that students never feel alone in their educational journey. From academic counselors to technical support teams, a dedicated network of professionals is readily available to assist students at every step. Whether it's clarifying doubts, providing guidance on course selection, or addressing technical issues, students can rely on the IMTS Institute's support services for a seamless learning experience. (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Jio Institute on Wednesday announced that its provost and distinguished scientist, Dr Guruswami Ravichandran, has been named the recipient of the prestigious 2023 Timoshenko Medal by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). This highly coveted accolade recognises Ravichandran "for pioneering contributions to the mechanics of engineering materials and biological systems, especially in extreme mechanical environments", Jio Institute said in a statement. Named after the illustrious engineer and educator Stephen P. Timoshenko, the Timoshenko Medal established in 1957 is bestowed annually in recognition of distinguished contributions to the field of applied mechanics. The award is widely recognised as the highest honour worldwide in the field of applied mechanics. Guruswami Ravichandran is the founding Provost of Jio Institute. According to Jio Institute, he is a highly accomplished scientist and academician who has made significant contributions to the field of solid mechanics and materials science and engineering. He is renowned for his expertise in experimental mechanics, particularly in dynamic behaviour and failure of materials. Ravichandran's multidisciplinary research expanded the understanding of mechanical behaviour and led to significant applications that have influenced engineering practice. "I am immensely proud to congratulate Dr Ravichandran on this remarkable achievement", said Palak Sheth, Project Director, Jio Institute. "We are privileged to have Dr Ravichandran as a driving force behind our commitment to excellence in education and research. We look forward to his continued guidance to be able to make a significant impact on education and society at large," he added. Throughout his career, Ravichandran has conducted pioneering research in the field of mechanics of materials. According to Jio Institute, he has made substantial advancements in understanding the dynamic behaviour of materials, including metals, polymers, and composites, under high strain rates and high pressures. His research has led to crucial insights into the deformation and failure mechanisms of materials and the development of novel techniques for characterizing their thermomechanical properties. He also contributed to the development of a novel three-dimensional traction force microscopy technique for studying biological cell-matrix interactions and a method for investigating the mechanics of large-strain ferroelectric actuators under combined electromechanical loading. Ravichandran earned his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the National Institute of Technology, Trichy, in 1981. He then pursued his Master's in Engineering and Applied Mathematics and Ph.D. in Engineering (Solid Mechanics and Structures) from Brown University, completing his doctoral studies in 1986. Following his education, Ravichandran embarked on an illustrious career in academia and research. According to the statement from Jio Institute, the institute is an institution of higher learning committed to providing students with a transformative education that prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world. (ANI) ATK New Delhi [India], May 31: In the rapidly evolving realm of cryptocurrencies, it has become essential for individuals seeking lucrative opportunities to prioritize secure and strategic investments. This article explores the rules and regulations governing crypto investments, platform security, with a particular focus on Dogetti (DETI), a distinctive participant in the market. Our aim is to present readers with a blend of informative and entertaining content, offering insights, education, and updates on the crypto market, while emphasizing the crucial aspect of security. Join us as we delve into Dogetti's implementation of security measures and draw comparisons with other industry players. Dogetti embraces the concept of building a strong and united community of holders. Inspired by mafia-themed books and films, Dogetti refers to its community as "The Family," aiming to establish a sense of togetherness and uniqueness. By branding themselves as a family, Dogetti aims to make users and buyers feel like they are part of something special. The main objective of the project is to increase the net worth of every family member. Dogetti's security measures are designed to provide peace of mind to its community. The platform utilizes blockchain technology, a decentralized and immutable ledger, to ensure transparency and security in all transactions. The blockchain's distributed nature makes it highly resistant to hacking attempts, protecting users' investments and personal information. Dogetti's 2 per cent reflection protocol is a notable feature that sets it apart. This protocol rewards holders by redistributing a portion of each transaction back to them. This approach incentivizes long-term holding and fosters a strong sense of loyalty within the community. DogettiDAO, another key aspect, allows family members to actively participate in the project's decision-making process, ensuring that the community's voice is heard. Platform Security and the Crypto Landscape When it comes to investing in cryptocurrencies, security should be a top priority. While the crypto market has seen significant advancements in security measures, it is essential to evaluate different platforms' security protocols. Many established cryptocurrency exchanges and platforms have implemented robust security measures, including two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage wallets, and encryption technologies. These measures provide layers of protection against potential hacks and unauthorized access. Additionally, regulatory compliance is crucial for platforms to establish trust and ensure the safety of investors' funds. However, it's worth noting that the crypto market has also witnessed the emergence of meme coins and new cryptocurrencies that may lack the same level of security as established platforms. Investors must exercise caution and conduct thorough research before investing in such coins. Dogetti understands the importance of security in the crypto space and has taken significant steps to prioritize it. The platform undergoes regular security audits to identify and address any vulnerabilities promptly. By working with reputable auditing firms, Dogetti demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a secure environment for its community. Moreover, Dogetti's focus on community empowerment sets it apart from many other platforms. The inclusion of DogettiDAO allows community members to actively participate in decision-making processes, making them an integral part of shaping the project's future. This democratic approach fosters trust and strengthens the bond within The Family. As the crypto market continues to evolve, security remains a crucial aspect for investors. Dogetti's implementation of blockchain technology, the 2 per cent reflection protocol, and the active involvement of the community through DogettiDAO showcases its dedication to security and community empowerment. While Dogetti stands out with its unique branding and emphasis on the strength of The Family, it is essential for investors to carefully assess the security measures of any platform they choose to invest in. By conducting thorough research, understanding the rules and regulations, and prioritizing platform security, investors can make informed decisions in the crypto landscape. To explore the opportunities offered by Dogetti and join The Family, visit their website at https://dogetti.io/. Take the first step toward being part of a united community that prioritizes security and strives to increase the net worth of all its members. Check out Dogetti below: Presale: https://dogetti.io/how-to-buy Website: https://dogetti.io/ Telegram: https://t.me/Dogetti Twitter: https://twitter.com/_Dogetti_ (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by ATK. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], May 31: Quint Digital Media Limited (QDML) is India's only pure-play, multi-brand, digital media, and media-tech company. QDML's consolidated revenues for FY23 increased to Rs 80.62+ crores, witnessing a growth of 31+% over the same period in FY22 (Rs 61.55 crores). The Quint's standalone revenues for FY23 grew by a healthy 20% to Rs 44.72 crores; FY22 revenues stood at Rs 37.16 crores. There was an increase in profitability and EBIDTA on a sequential and full-year basis in a tough economic environment. Media-tech operations of Quintype continued their phenomenal growth; revenues increased by 150% to Rs 22.49 crores in FY23 (FY22 revenues stood at Rs 9 crores). The company successfully completed the divestment of a 49% stake in BQ Prime to AMG Media for Rs 47.83 crores. Cash and cash equivalents as on 31 March 2023 stood at Rs 156+ crores. The company successfully completed the Rights Issue and raised Rs 125 crores from shareholders. The Rights Issue received 1.21X bids, demonstrating the trust reposed by shareholders in the company and its management. The audience footprint across the websites and digital platforms - including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, Snapchat etc. - continued its strong momentum. Page views witnessed a growth of over 39% over FY22. Further, the digital properties had nearly 23 million subscribers/followers across various platforms at the end of FY23. The Quint won 7 awards from the World Association of News Publishers (WAN-IFRA) at the South Asian Digital Media Awards 2022, including the Champion Publisher of the Year Award. It also won several other prestigious recognitions at India Audio Summit and Awards 2023, afaqs! Vdnonxt Awards, and more. (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PNN New Delhi [India], May 31: Vithika Agarwal, a former Miss India (Asia Pacific) unveils her first novel, "The Third Party," set against the vibrant and diverse backdrop of India, this thought-provoking book delves into the complexities of human relationships and challenges the boundaries society imposes upon love. Sara, the protagonist, finds herself torn between duty, loyalty, and her deep love for her daughter's class teacher, Samar. Vithika digs deeper into the essence of love, examining why society deems it wrong to share love with more than one person simultaneously. As Sara grapples with her emotions and countless sleepless nights, readers are invited to reflect on the nature of love and the choices we face in navigating the blurred lines of love and loyalty. The novel presents a vivid portrayal of India, where traditional values have learnt to coexist with modern day changes. Vithika's exquisite storytelling transports readers to a world where the symphony of nature blends seamlessly with the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture. With each turn of the page, readers are immersed in a sensory delight that evokes a range of emotions, resonating long after the final chapters. "Eminently readable, tender, erotic, and highlighting the whirlpools of modern-day relationships that will be faced by generations Y and Z," commented one literary critic. "The Third Party not only captivates with its engaging storyline but also raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of love and the boundaries society imposes upon it. It explores themes of duty, loyalty, and its relation to a pursuit of personal happiness." Vithika's writing prowess and skilful prose are appreciated by readers and critics alike. One reader shared, "The Third Party has brought back fantastic memories of India, one of my favorite countries, in all its aspects. Thanks to Vithika's vivid and skilful writing, I could smell it, taste it, feel the exoticism in every page. It's a book you'll find hard to put down, you're going to devour it, it will take you to different places where you're going to want to stay for as long as possible." Vithika Agarwal resides in Bangalore, India, with her British husband and spirited son. Both of them ensure that there is never a dull moment in her life. From diving in the ocean, to motorbiking on a volcano, or climbing the Himalayas her two boys keep her on her toes. Although they are better than her in most things she takes great pride in reminding them she is better than them when it comes to climbing mountains. The mountains hold a special place in her heart, and she often loses herself in their beauty, occasionally disconnecting from the world. Vithika's fascination with human relationships and curiosity to explore their complexity through her characters compelled her to become an author. Having previously worked for an animation company in Los Angeles and created a wedding planning company upon her return to India, Vithika brings a unique perspective to her storytelling, enriching her narratives with authenticity and depth. "The Third Party" is now available in online retailers. For more information about Vithika Agarwal and her work, please visit her website at www.thethirdpartybook.com (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) NewsVoir New Delhi [India], May 31: Dr Bina Modi, the esteemed Chairperson of Modi Enterprises - KK Modi Group, and Chairperson and Managing Director of Godfrey Phillips India and Indofil, has been recognized as the 'Most Inspiring Woman In Business' at the esteemed Outlook Business Spotlight Visionary Leader Awards 2023. The award acknowledges Dr Bina Modi's outstanding contributions to the industry and her unwavering commitment to protecting and promoting the rich legacy of the Group. The Outlook Business Spotlight Visionary Leader Awards, known for honouring exceptional leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries, celebrated Dr Bina Modi's remarkable achievements in leading the Group's flagship companies and her visionary approach to business. The award serves as a testament to her remarkable leadership, strategic vision, and dedication to driving sustainable growth. Expressing her gratitude for the prestigious accolade, Dr Bina Modi stated, "I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the 'Most Inspiring Woman In Business' award. This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of the entire Modi Group, whose hard work and commitment have helped us build a strong foundation rooted in our People-First philosophy. We have always believed that our success lies in the success of our people and our ability to create a positive impact on society and the environment." Congratulating Dr. Modi on the recognition, Outlook Money's editor, Nidhi Sinha commented, "Dr. Bina Modi has been chosen as the recipient of the 'Most Inspiring Woman In Business' award for her outstanding leadership, dedication to excellence, and forward-thinking approach. Her vision for the Group and her commitment to the well-being of its stakeholders, along with her focus on sustainability, sets a powerful example for the industry. She is a true inspiration for future generations of women." Under Dr Bina Modi's astute leadership, the Modi Group has consistently demonstrated a modern outlook while staying true to its core values and people-first philosophy. Driven by a grand vision for the future, the Group aims to create a positive impact not only on its own companies but also on the lives of the people they serve and the planet as a whole. With a focus on the big picture, Dr Bina Modi continues to inspire her teams to innovate, adapt to changing times, and pursue excellence. The Outlook Business Spotlight Visionary Leader Award is a fitting tribute to Dr Bina Modi's exceptional leadership and serves as a reminder of the Group's unwavering commitment to growth, sustainability, and positively impacting society. Earlier this year, Dr Modi was also conferred with the 'Women Empowerment Principles Leadership Award, Asia, 2023' at the 19th edition of the Asian Business and Social Forum Awards and Summit 2023 by AsiaOne and URS. The Modi group has diverse business interests in FMCG, agro-chemicals, retail, fashion, lifestyle, direct-selling, food and hospitality sectors. As the Chairperson and Managing Director of the publicly listed Godfrey Phillips India, Dr Modi is among a handful of women leading the Fortune 500 India company. Dr Bina Modi is the Chairperson of Modi Enterprises - KK Modi Group. She is also the Chairperson and Managing Director of Godfrey Phillips India and Indofil. The Group has diversified businesses across the country, including BSE listed Fortune 500 India company - Godfrey Phillips India (GPI), Indofil Chemicals, Modicare, KK Modi University, 24Seven, Colorbar, Bina Fashions, chain of Ego restaurants, Dessange salon etc. She has been conferred with a Ph.D, Honoris Causa, by Dr K.N. Modi University as well as by Jharkhand Rai University. She has also been awarded the Women of the Decade in Business & Leadership 2018 by Women Economic Forum, and the prestigious Achiever's Award in 2019. She has also featured in 'India's Most Powerful Women', a book by Prem Ahluwalia. In 2020 she received an Award for Excellence in Business by the President of Egypt, at the Women Economic Forum 2020. In April 2022, she was recognised as 'Women transforming India' by Indo-American Chambers at '6th Entrepreneur Leadership Awards 2022'. Earlier this year, Dr Modi was conferred with 'The AsiaOne Women Empowerment Leadership Principles Award, Asia, 2023'. The Outlook Business Spotlight Visionary Leader Award 2023's 'Most Inspiring Woman In Business' award is another feather in her elaborate hat. For more information, email harmanjit@modi-ent.com. (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Thank you for supporting our journalism. This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune. Lake Michigan's "Playpen," between Ohio Street Beach and Oak Street Beach, is full of boaters on a nice day in Chicago Aug. 10, 2019. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune) A boat owner was sentenced to one year in federal prison for illegally chartering a boat through Chicago waterways, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Illinois announced in a news release. Christopher Mike Garbowski, 36, conducted his illegal chartering operation on a 40-foot powerboat referred to as the Sea Hawk and Anchorman, and several of the vessels outings took place in the Playpen a heavily populated boating hot spot in downtown Chicago, the statement said. The vessel was not inspected or certified by the U.S. Coast Guard throughout its usage as a commercial vehicle. Advertisement Evidence photograph from a criminal complaint against Christopher Michael Garbowski, who the U.S. Coast Guard alleges operated an illegal charter business using this boat, variously named the Sea Hawk and Anchorman. (U.S. Coast Guard evidence photo) The Michigan resident accepted payment to charter passengers between 2017 and 2019 without proper licensing, despite numerous notifications from the Coast Guard that his activities violated federal regulations, the statement said. During one incident, Garbowski, also known as Michael Gunnman, asked passengers to lie to the Coast Guard and claim that they were friends with him in an attempt to verify the illegal operations validity, according to the statement. Advertisement Garbowski pleaded guilty earlier this year to a felony charge for violating an order of the captain of the port, and on May 30 was sentenced to a year and a day in federal prison. NewsVoir Siem Reap [Cambodia], May 31: Pancham Dham Trust begins the 6th Pancham Dham Yatra. The 5-day long journey begins today on May 29, 2023 and will be concluding on June 2, 2023. The commencement of the Yatra started with the Press Conference. The Press Conference gave a brief of the important dates and traditions that will be part of 6th Pancham Dham Yatra. The Pancham Dham initiative came into existence on the 1st of June 2018 and today is in its 6th year. Pancham Dham Yatra has become the epitome of spiritual dialogues and cultural relations between India and Cambodia. Today, Pancham Dham Trust is reviving the glory of Sanatana Dharma by paving the way for starting a dialogue between the Hindu and Buddha religions in Cambodia while also bringing the South East Asian countries together. With the Pancham Dham Yatra, the Pancham Dham Trust envisions to build a social, culture and spiritual relationship with Cambodia & Bharat. It aims to promote Trades & Financial bonding between India & South-East Asian Countries. This will pave way in establishing a window for Cultural ties as well as social dialogues between 52 countries based on Indian Ocean countries. The Trust will be constructing a Shiv Mandir at Siem Reap to establish Pancham Dham at an estimated cost INR 200CR. Apart for this, the vision is to establish Sanatan Dhyan Kendra at 52 Coastal Countries and other Sanatan based countries. The event saw people joining from people from all religions and faith, Cambodian diaspora, Indian Consulate in Cambodia, Spiritual leaders from India and Cambodia, Budhists monks, Bureaucrats, Diplomats and etc. The attendees witnessed a scintillating performance of Khmer Art and Music; Traditional Apsara dance (Khmer dance) and Khmer music. This year more than 200 plus devotes are visiting from all over the world to be a part of the religious event. The holy event will begin with a Havan on the occasion of 6th Foundation Anniversary of Pancham Dham. 500 Buddhist Monks will be blessing with their presence in this Yagna. Post the Yagna, children of 10 schools of Cambodia would be facilitated with books and food. The spiritual event is Knowledge sharing & discussion on Sanatan Sanskriti and contribution of Buddhism. Today, Pancham Dham has become one of the biggest cultural events in South East Asia. The congregation of the Asian Diaspora at the event in Siem Reap, Cambodia, has become the future destination of every "Sanatana Dharma" follower in the world. Pancham Dham Trust to work on: - People to spread awareness to promote the "Spiritual Journey" - Constructing Hindu Temple at Kulen mountains (Mahnendra Parvat older name) - Spreading Religious Harmony, Cultural Exchange, Peace, Cultural Heritage, - Tourism for Cambodia - Economic boost for the country - Pancham Dham Nyas is committed for spiritual yatra to Cambodia at its foundation day every year. - To establish tathagata Buddh at Vedic temples in India and to pray with Vedic traditions. - Dhyan Kendra and Institutes are being established in South-East Asian Countries (initially at Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, First Phase) "The tone for the future of Sanatana Dharma seems to be forming with the followers from all across the globe. Pancham Dham Yatra, the historic event in Cambodia has been at the forefront of various cultural activities. It has been a leading force in uniting the East Asian nations through the Fifth Dham initiative by fostering the thought process viz. Sanatana Dharma. The Pancham Dham has gradually become the biggest pilgrimage center in East Asian countries. With the developments, Cambodia is also witnessing a massive surge in tourism and a boost in the economy," quoted Dr. Sailesh Lachu Hiranandani, Founding Member and the Torchbearer of the Pancham Dham movement. "With the Pancham Dham Trust taking the lead in setting up what would become the biggest pilgrimage centre in the East Asian countries, Cambodia's name will once again be etched in History for having the second largest Hindu temple after the Angkor Wat. History will not say who built the temple but will praise the efforts of every global citizen who will be inking their mark in the Sanatana Dharma movement," added, the Visionary Leader from RSS, Indresh Kumar. Veteran RSS leader, Indresh Kumar with his never-ending support, has been vocal about the Pancham Dham initiative. He has been a guiding light for the initiative taken by Pancham Dham and has decided to actively participate in the development of the 5th Dham. The Trust with the guidance and support of Nvr Suresh, responsible for helping in designing and crafting of Shiva Murti, along with, Mahendra Joshi, Trustee, who is spearheading and helping in responsibilities of daily prayers, Pran-Prathistha and establishment of the Murti. Furthermore, Roza Lim along with Yeth Koekanha, will be representing the trust in Cambodia to spread its wings under their guidance. (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) NewsVoir Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], May 31: foundit (formerly Monster APAC & ME), one of India's leading jobs platforms, today announced its collaboration with Microsoft to bring back the second edition of Aspire, a virtual career fair for freshers and young professionals with 0 to 2 years of work experience. The online fair will be held from May 31st to June 2nd, 2023, with participation from over 30 hiring organisations. With over 70 million candidate profiles available, this exclusive event gives recruiters from several industries access to a sizable talent pool while offering job seekers the opportunity to interact with industry experts and connect with potential employers. With the aim to create a collective of Microsoft certified and skilled talent in India, foundit and Microsoft continue their collaboration to bridge the gap between qualified candidates and the most sought-after recruiters in the country. The partnership alliance is a testament to the success of the first edition of Aspire, launched by foundit in 2021. The first edition of the fair was attended by over 140,000 people and featured active participation from more than 18 prominent hiring companies majorly from IT, BFSI, Ed-tech, Consulting, Advertising & Market Research, and Healthcare sectors. "We are delighted to announce our collaboration with Microsoft to launch Aspire," said Sekhar Garisa, CEO of foundit (previously Monster APAC & ME). "The Indian job market is expanding rapidly, with a projected need for 100 million new jobs by 2025 as per industry reports. However, the limited supply of skilled talent has led to a demand-supply mismatch, posing a significant challenge for the industry. Our joint endeavour with Microsoft is designed to help address this talent gap by creating a pool of Microsoft Cloud skilled and certified professionals and bridging the recruiter-employer connect. Our dynamic platform, Aspire, is an ideal conduit for meaningful interactions between job seekers and recruiters. It not only keeps job seekers up to date on the latest job openings and skill requirements but also facilitates valuable connections with potential employers across industries." Indrani Choudhury, Chief Learning Officer, Microsoft India, said, "Microsoft certifications set candidates apart, showcasing their validated skills, ability, and commitment to embracing new technologies. Studies have shown 91% of hiring managers use certifications as a criterion when evaluating candidates. Our continued collaboration with foundit builds on these opportunities by providing a comprehensive platform for talent discovery, and career advancement." The career fair would be launched by Jean-Philippe Courtois, Executive Vice President and President, National Transformation Partnerships, Microsoft on May 31st, 2023. A panel discussion on 'Connecting Skills to Employability', discussing the importance of skilling for employability will be held featuring leaders from foundit, Microsoft, NASSCOM, and TCS. The second edition of Aspire will cater to recruiters who want to hire freshers and young professionals at the initial stage of their careers, offering them access to potential tech and non-tech candidates. They can easily identify and select Microsoft-certified candidates through quick screening and shortlisting criteria. The fair also provides significant opportunities for job seekers. foundit has also partnered with Microsoft for the Future Ready Talent (FRT) a virtual internship program where college students across diverse backgrounds can upskill themselves on Microsoft Cloud, create projects, and get them validated. This program is also affiliated with organisations such as All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), FutureSkills Prime-a NASSCOM and Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) digital skilling initiative, Ernst & Young (EY), and GitHub. Through Future Reade Talent, recruiters can access rich information about each candidate such as Project details, Project links, demos, GitHub profiles, LinkedIn profiles, and much more, making for a seamless recruitment process. Recruiters at Aspire 2023 would be exposed to the candidate pool of Future Ready Talent interns and Microsoft certified learners for Azure, Microsoft Dynamics, and Power platform job openings. foundit, formerly Monster (APAC & ME), is a leading talent platform offering comprehensive employment solutions to recruiters and job seekers across APAC & ME. Since its inception, the company has been assisting over 70 million registered users to find jobs, upskill, and connect with the right opportunities across 18 countries. Over the last two decades, the company has been a catalyst in the world of recruitment solutions with advanced technology, seeking to efficiently bridge the talent gap across industry verticals, experience levels, and geographies. Today, foundit is committed to enabling and connecting the right talent with the right opportunities by harnessing the power of deep tech to sharpen hyper-personalised job searches and precision hiring. foundit strongly believes that a job title does not define one's potential and leverages technology to dig deeper to curate opportunities central to the needs and aspirations of each user. To learn more, about foundit in APAC & Gulf, Visit: www.foundit.in | www.founditgulf.com | www.foundit.sg | www.foundit.my | www.foundit.com.ph | www.foundit.com.hk. learn.microsoft.com/en-us/training/student-hub/certifications. (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) PNN New Delhi [India], May 31: Justagg, an innovative digital networking company, announces the introduction of its groundbreaking digital business card, redefining the professional networking landscape and poised to replace the traditional paper business card system. Justagg's launch comes in response to the evolving needs of the digital era where convenience, adaptability, and sustainability take precedence. "In our increasingly connected world, professional networking should be a seamless, efficient, and memorable experience. Our digital business card is tailored to meet these demands and more," stated the founder of Justagg, Shivansh Soni. Justagg's smart business card stands out in the crowded digital space with its multiple modes, dual profile system for business and social interactions, and an integrated lead generation form. Designed with users' needs in mind, these features ensure a versatile networking tool that allows for effective sharing of professional and social information. "Networking goes beyond the simple exchange of contact information," said Shivansh. "Our platform ensures users are remembered long after meetings end, and their professional image is consistently projected, be it in a business or social setting." But the innovation doesn't stop there. Justagg's digital business cards come equipped with an insightful analytics feature. Users can monitor how many individuals have saved their contact or interacted with their social profile. This unprecedented level of insight into recipients' engagement offers a strategic advantage for networking. With Justagg, the shift from paper to digital cards is not only convenient but also profoundly transformative. Digital cards allow users to easily update their information, embed interactive elements like website links, social media profiles, and even track recipient engagement. This digital move is particularly crucial in industries where being current is the norm, and networking involves sharing a broad spectrum of professional information. Moreover, the digital solution by Justagg goes beyond convenience; it also contributes to environmental sustainability. By opting for digital business cards, users significantly cut down on paper usage, promoting eco-friendly practices and contributing to a greener planet. "With Justagg, we're bringing a revolution in the networking landscape," added Shivansh. "We're not just about transforming how people share contact information; we're about making every networking interaction count while being mindful of our environmental footprint and helping professionals make a great first impression." Justagg is a pioneering digital platform aimed at transforming traditional networking norms. By fusing advanced technology with practical, user-centric features, Justagg aspires to lead the way towards a more efficient, digital, and interconnected future in professional networking. For more information, visit https://justagg.com/ (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) BusinessWire India Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 31: A 29-year-old aspiring actor from Agra, Nirmal Singh, was admitted to the hospital recently after he suffered a brain stroke, leaving his family in a state of shock. His family's savings were used to treat him leaving them with no financial resources to tap into. Arranging for Rs 25 lakh for his treatment seemed an impossible task since he is the only earning member of the family. At this juncture, his friend Aditya Trivedi turned to medical crowdfunding via Impact Guru to raise funds worth Rs 25 lakh for Nirmal's treatment. Aditya and Nirmal share a decade-long friendship. An engineer by qualification, Nirmal has an extraordinary flair and talent for theater and wishes to build a career in Bollywood while his friend is a salaried employee at a private firm. Given Nirmal's current health condition, these dreams felt far-fetched. But all hopes were not lost. Within 6 hours, 1302 donors via Impact Guru came forward to raise Rs 20 lakhs to save not only this young man's health but also safeguard his dreams. With the money raised via crowdfunding, Nirmal continues to receive treatment in the critical care unit of Nanavati Max Superspeciality (Mumbai) with the help of a ventilator through a tracheostomy. Though his body remains unresponsive, the doctors have seen a few facial movements (blinking of eyes, twitching of eyebrows, and lips). The doctors believe that there is a long way to go for Nirmal to completely recover. Lauding the generosity of the donors, Khushboo Jain, the Co-Founder and COO of ImpactGuru.com said, "The generosity of the donor community is truly inspiring! In just six hours, we succeeded in raising Rs 20 lakhs to support Nirmal's treatment for a brain stroke. This kindness and compassion will make a world of difference in his life. Thank you for restoring hope and spreading love." A friend is someone who understands your past and believes in your future and Nirmal is lucky to have a friend like Aditya. (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Manisha while heading back home after the pack of her upcoming project's shoot took to her Instagram story and dropped a clip. Sharing the video, she wrote, 'Returning home early morning...#filming #nightshift." The famed actor made the video while sitting in the rear seat of the car while travelling back home at 5:30 a.m. Meanwhile, on the work front, Manisha was seen in Netflix's original film titled Maska, directed by Neeraj Udhwani. Manisha will be seen in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Heeramandi' with Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, and Sanjeeda Sheikh. 'Heeramandi' will explore stories of courtesans and the hidden cultural reality of Heeramandi, a dazzling district, during pre-independent India in Lahore. Basically, it is a series about love, betrayal, succession, and politics in the kothas which promises SLB's trademark larger-than-life sets, multi-faceted characters and soulful compositions. Earlier, the director, along with, Netflix's co-CEO Ted Sarandos unveiled the first glimpse of his first global drama series, 'Heeramandi'. The cast of the series dressed in similar coloured outfits and heavy jewellery. In another teaser, the women are dressed in all-black outfits. (ANI) Taking to his Twitter handle, Mahesh Babu shared the poster and captioned it, "Today is all the more special! This one's for you Nanna." https://twitter.com/urstrulyMahesh/status/1663750188111126528 In the next post, he unveiled the teaser of the film titled 'Guntur Kaaram'. https://twitter.com/urstrulyMahesh/status/1663889923886428165 Sharing the teaser, he wrote, "Highly inflammable! #GunturKaaram." The film was tentatively titled SSMB28. The movie is slated to hit theatres on January 13, 2024. In the video, Mahesh Babu gets into action with a stick in his hand, as everyone is waiting for him at Mirchi Yard. "Endi Atta Soosthunnav... Beedi 3D Lo Kanabaduthundaa..." thunders Mahesh Babu, as he leans on the ground and lights a beedi with two match sticks. The remaining scenes demonstrate Guntur Kaaram's enduring appeal to a wide audience by providing a peek of its fiery lead character, who is properly described by the slogan "highly inflammable." The teaser ended by paying homage to legendary actor Krishna. Helmed by Trivikram Srinivas, previously, the actor and the director collaborated for blockbuster hits 'Athadu' and 'Khaleja' and after the long wait of 12 years, the duo is all set to reunite once again for a big-budget project. As today is the birth anniversary of veteran actor Ghattamaneni Krishna, one of the top actors of his era. Krishna, originally known as Ghattamaneni Siva Rama Krishna Murthy, did around 350 films. He was also a producer and director. In 2009, he received the Padma Bhushan Award. He entered Telugu cinema with Adurthi Subba Rao's romantic drama 'Thene Manasulu' in 1965. He passed away on November 15, 2022, in Hyderabad due to health issues. (ANI) From so many characters of Deepika Padukone, Naina Talwar from 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' is one character that won the hearts of her fans. And this film is indeed a special film that has set a benchmark in the industry and reminiscing the same, Deepika visited her fond memories of the film on its 10th anniversary. Taking to Instagram story, Deepika shared a few clips from the film and expressed how special the film is for her. She captioned the video, "A PIECE OF MY HEART...AND SOUL..." Deepika truly left a distinct mark as Naina Talwar from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. From her sweet and innocent smile to her saree from the song 'Badtameez Dil', everything about her character went on to become a trend. As the film also featured Ranbir Kapoor, the audience truly showered immense love on the chemistry between Ranbir and Deepika. Kalki also took a stroll down memory lane and shared the memorable memories she created with co-stars Deepika, Ranbir Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur. In an Instagram post, Kalki shared that Deepika used to teach them a "dance step we can't follow". She also talked about how Ranbir used to play pranks on them. "How we've all grown and learnt since then and yet some things I can't imagine any different, like @deepikapadukone will always be teaching us a dance step we can't follow, @adityaroykapur will always be our big Lebowski, Ranbir will always play a prank that makes us squeal and @ayan_mukerji will always ask us uncomfortably personal questions that lead to the best conversations... loved the memories we collected here, happy 10 years guys," Kalki said. Reminiscing the film, Kalki dropped a video montage comprising some heartwarming scenes from the film. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' revolved around four young friends who experience the emotions of love and heartbreak while embarking on the journey of life after their carefree college days. Not only Deepika and Kalki, Ayan too penned a note filled with nostalgia. "YJHD - My second child, a piece of my heart and soul - 10 years old today! I think after all these years, I can confidently say that...Making this movie was one of the greatest joys of my life! And what we achieved with it - with all its perfections and imperfections - is a source of great eternal pride for me! Strangely, I don't think I've ever seen Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani fully from beginning to end, since the day it released ...(Always pushing towards the next milestone, and not looking back enough...!)," he wrote. He added, "But when I'm older and wiser - I think I will watch the movie atleast once a year - because a big part of who I was and how I looked at life - is forever captured in this movie !In recent months, I have often had people recognise me and come up to me... and I'm thinking they will say something about Brahmastra, and then they started talking about YJHD! So, putting out a whole lot of gratitude for Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani... and all the many people who connected deeply with the movie over the years! Also sharing a Director's Note I had written at the time, in my story which someone special from my team shared with me a few days ago... and it brought back all kinds of memories for me." 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' was produced by Karan Johar. 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) Tamil Forest Department has informed that all efforts were being taken to ensure public safety while handling the situation arising out of the movement of rogue elephant 'Arikomban' in Tamil Nadu's Cumbum town and adjoint areas. According to an official release, law and order are maintained through the proclamation of Section 144 in the Cumbum Municipality area. "District Collector, Theni is closely monitoring the situation. Despite the complex situation, all efforts are being taken to ensure the safety of the public while ensuring the safety of the elephant as well," the statement said. The release further stated that the state government has constituted a committee headed by the field director and chief conservator of Forests, SMTR comprising the deputy director, Megamalai division; district forest officer, Theni and deputy director, Srivilliputhur division, assistant conservator of Forests, Megamalai division and assistant conservator of Forests, Forest Protection Squad, Madurai to translocate the elephant deep inside the forests. "A team of Veterinarians supported by 16 elephant trackers from Mudumalai and Anamalai Tiger Reserves including local elephant trackers of Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve are monitoring the movement of the elephant. The elephant is also tracked through a radio collar," the statement read. It added that three Kumki elephants -- 'Suyambu' and 'Muthu' from Topslip Elephant camp and 'Udhayan' from Mudumalai elephant camps -- are on the spot to support the operation. Further, according to the release, the Field Director, SMTR has formed four core teams to operate on two shifts to monitor the elephant movement. "Separate teams for logistics, Kumki handling, resource mobilization and other requirements are formed to operate round the clock. An exclusive team is monitoring the safe passage of elephant with the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board to prevent electrocution," it added. A central control room has been set up at the Cumbum Forest Range Office campus to ensure overall coordination, the statement said, adding that a total of 160 forest personnel from Theni district and 31 forest personnel from Srivilliputhur Division, ATR, MTR, Hosur and Coimbatore are deployed on the ground. Meanwhile, the Kerala High Court, in a writ petition, passed an order for the capture and relocation of 'Arikomban', which is aged 35 years. The tusker was translocated by the Kerala Forest Department in the Periyar Tiger Reserve on April 29, on the interstate border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. (ANI) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann forwarded the resignation of Local Government Minister Nijjer from the Council of Ministers to Governor Banwari Lal Purohit for early acceptance. Informing about the development, a spokesperson for the Chief Minister's Office said that in a communique to the Governor, Bhagwant Mann has impressed upon him to accept the resignation of the Local Government Minister, who has resigned from Cabinet on personal grounds. The spokesperson said following the resignation of Nijjar, two new ministers will be appointed in the Punjab cabinet. "The Chief Minister has proposed the names of Balkar Singh, MLA from Kartarpur, and Gurmeet Singh Khudian, MLA from Lambi, for being inducted as cabinet ministers," said an official. Both the ministers may be sworn in at 11 am on Wednesday. "He (Mann) had requested the Governor to accord kind approval to administer the Oath of Office and Secrecy to the new Ministers at 11 am on May 31 in Punjab Raj Bhawan, Chandigarh," the official added. Nijjar was an MLA from the Amritsar South Assembly constituency of Punjab. (ANI) India Metrological Department (IMD) on Tuesday said monsoon is expected to make an onset in Bihar on June 13-14 and dry weather will continue in the state in the next five days. The weather department added that the temperature will rise above 40 degrees in the state with no possibility of rain. "Dry weather will continue in the state for the next 5 days as there is no possibility of rain. The temperature is likely to go past 40 degrees Celsius. Monsoon may enter Bihar by June 13-14. This time, the state is likely to receive less rainfall than normal," said Ashish Kumar, IMD scientist. Earlier, on Friday, IMD said that the rainfall all over India in the month of June will be at 'below normal' levels, adding that states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Odisha, and northern India will witness above-normal temperatures. Speaking to ANI, RK Jenamani, a weather scientist with IMD, said,"In June, the rainfall all over India will be below 92 per cent, which is below normal. In states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Orissa, and northern India the temperature is likely to stay above normal and the probability of temperature to be above normal is 70-80 per cent." (ANI) Thank you for supporting our journalism. This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune. When it came time to split up the first batch of $15 billion Congress set aside last year to replace toxic lead pipes, Illinois officials had plenty of reasons to expect they would get the biggest share. Utility groups have long estimated the state leads the nation in the number of lead service lines connecting homes and two-flats to municipal water systems, largely because Chicagos plumbing code required use of the brain-damaging metal until 1986, decades after most other major U.S. cities had banned it. Advertisement Plumbers in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin also installed tens of thousands of lead pipes during the last century to convey drinking water to homes and apartments. But when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced last month how it plans to share nearly $3 billion this year, Florida got the biggest cut. Another state surprisingly in the top 10: Texas. Advertisement Since then environmental lawyers have been quizzing EPA officials and state bureaucrats about a 2022 survey the agency relied upon to conclude Florida surpasses Illinois in the number of lead service lines, and that Texas has more than Michigan and Wisconsin combined. Some of the numbers just didnt make sense, said Tom Neltner, chemicals policy director at the nonprofit Environmental Defense Fund and former assistant commissioner of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. Florida in particular stands out. In a 2016 study, the American Water Works Association estimated the state has 200,000 lead service lines. Asked five years later if it had followed up with its own survey, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection told another nonprofit, the Natural Resources Defense Council, it does not track lead service line(sic). With billions of dollars of new federal money on the table, Florida officials reported their state actually has more than 1.1 million toxic pipes nearly six times more than the utility trade group projected. That put Florida in line for nearly $255 million this year from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, compared to $230 million earmarked for Illinois. Neltner said local officials in some of Floridas most populous areas told him they dont know where the state got the numbers it forwarded to the EPA. Florida officials arent talking about their methodology, at least publicly. In some cases, it appears the EPA assumed pipes made of unknown materials are made of lead. Blackhawk Sewer & Water contractor Khaild Waarith fixes and closes off a leaking lead service pipe ahead of service line replacement in the 3100 block of South Ridgeway Avenue in Chicago on April 10, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune) Texas also likely has far fewer lead service lines than the 647,000 estimated in the EPAs latest survey, in part because Houston incorrectly filled out its forms, Neltner said. The actual number is closer to 300,000, he added, and as a result the state should have received considerably less than the $146 million awarded by the EPA. It remains unclear if the Biden administration will order the agency to take another stab at its survey or do more to pin down states about how they came up with their numbers. Advertisement As anticipated, there were a high number of lead service lines identified in Midwestern and East Coast states, where we know aging infrastructure is a challenge, the EPA said in a statement. Florida and Texas were allocated their share of the funding based on their submitted data, which highlights the many service lines in their states that are made of both known lead and unknown materials. More money is flowing to both states even though Republicans who dominate their congressional delegations all voted against the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including U.S. Sens. Marco Rubio and Rick Scott of Florida and John Cornyn and Ted Cruz of Texas. There are other quirks in the EPAs funding formula. Afternoon Briefing Daily Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox each afternoon. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy > Illinois and other states with the most lead service lines are getting substantially less federal money per line than those with far fewer toxic pipes. For instance, Alaska, with 1,454 lead lines, and South Dakota, with 4,141, will get $19,704 and $6,919 per line respectively during the coming year. The federal money headed to Illinois amounts to $221 per lead service line, a review of EPA data shows. Michigan and Wisconsin are getting $241 and $238 a line. If the EPA tweaks its state-by-state analysis or individual states update their figures, it could mean less money is available to Florida and Texas in future years. Other states, including Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin, would be in line for a greater share of federal dollars to replace toxic pipes with safer materials. Advertisement A lot of people here are incredulous about this, said Cyndi Roper, an NRDC advocate in Michigan, who noted her state attempted to compile a rigorous inventory of lead service lines after high levels of the toxic metal began flowing out of household faucets in Flint during 2015. Michigan shouldnt be penalized for having better (documented) numbers than other states. At the same time, if those Florida numbers are somehow accurate, it suggests state officials there havent been doing their duty to protect the public, Roper said. People in Florida should be asking a lot of questions and taking steps to protect their families. Lead is unsafe at any level. Ingesting even tiny concentrations can permanently damage the developing brains of children and contribute to heart disease, kidney failure and other health problems later in life. Researchers estimate more than 400,000 deaths a year in the United States are linked to lead exposure. mhawthorne@chicagotribune.com Notably, Kejriwal had on May 23 embarked on a nationwide tour to seek support from the Opposition parties against the Ordinance. Taking to Twitter, the Delhi CM stated, "Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (1st June) to seek DMK's support against Centre's unconstitutional-undemocratic 'Anti-Delhi' Ordinance". "On June 2, I will meet the Chief Minister of Jharkhand Mr @HemantSorenJMM ji in Ranchi. Will seek their support against the ordinance passed by the Modi government against the people of Delhi," he added in a subsequent tweet. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor has so far met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, former Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav. The Union government on May 19 brought an ordinance to notify rules for the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) regarding the 'transfer posting, vigilance and other incidental matters'. The ordinance was brought to amend the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act, 1991 and it circumvents the Supreme Court judgement in the Centre vs Delhi case. (ANI) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday flagged off Pride Run in view of 'Bhopal Gaurav Diwas' from VIP road in the state capital on Wednesday. The pride run started from the statue of Raja Bhoj situated at VIP road to Bhopal Boat Club which covers a distance of around three kilometres. The citizens of Bhopal, especially the youth, enthusiastically participated in the run. There were over thousands of people who participated in the pride run. Speaking on the occasion, CM Chouhan said, "Bhopal did not become independent on August 15, 1947, when the country got independence. At that time, the then Nawab had refused to merge Bhopal with the Indian Union. After which the citizens had to struggle and after the sacrifice of many fighters in the merger movement, Bhopal became independent on June 1, 1949. Youths were also martyred in this movement in Boras in Raisen district." Since then, Bhopal Gaurav Diwas is celebrated every year on June 1. In view of this, a pride run was organised from VIP Road to Board Club on Wednesday, in which thousands of people participated. CM Chouhan extended greetings to the citizens of Bhopal Gaurav Diwas and also paid tributes to the martyrs of the merger movement on the occasion. Besides, the Chief Minister urged the citizens to keep the city clean and green. On the other hand, Bhopal Collector Ashish Singh said, "Bhopal Gaurav Diwas is celebrated on June 1 every year and in view of it many programs have been planned with the cooperation of residents of Bhopal. The first program was Pride Run on May 31. It is a matter of pleasure that residents of Bhopal participated in it. There has been a lot of youth participation in the pride run." "Around 15,000 people came here which shows that everyone is ready to participate in Bhopal Gaurav Diwas. I will appeal to everyone that on the evening of Bhopal Gaurav Diwas, all the buildings, houses and markets should be decorated, and at least 10 diyas (earthen lamps) should be lit at everyone's house and show participation in Bhopal," he added. (ANI) "Three terrorists with narcotics and weapons in their possession were injured along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Karmarha sector by Indian Army troops when they were trying to infiltrate. The search operation is going on in the area," Army officials said. According to Dr Ishfaq of District Hospital, Poonch, "In left thigh of Mohd Farooq (28) sustained a bullet injury and rest he is stable. He was brought by police in the morning at 7:15." The identity of the other two injured terrorists is yet to be ascertained. The search operation is going on in the area, they added. Further details are awaited. (ANI) A case has been registered against Tanveer Akhtar Mohd Lake Khan, a resident of Ranchi, after a model based in Mumbai accused him of raping her. The case was registered at Mumbai's Versova police station under sections 376(2)(N), 328,506,504,323 of the IPC and section 67 of the IT Act. Officials said that the case has been transferred to Ranchi Police. The victim said in her complaint to the Mumbai police that she is a native of Bhagalpur in Bihar and came to Ranchi in connection with a modelling workshop when she came in contact with the accused who has repeatedly raped her from 2021 and threatened and blackmailed her. She said the accused had also threatened her of dire consequences if she informed anyone. The woman said that she wanted to go to Mumbai to pursue her modelling career but he "started asking me to change religion" and to marry him. She said he also exerted pressure to change her name. The woman said the accused had also exerted pressure on her to come to Bangkok for shooting and when she refused threatened to make some pictures viral. The victim said he sent some objectionable photos to her brother and mother and she decided to end her life but was dissuaded from doing so by an acquaintance. The victim said she reluctantly agreed to go to Bangkok where the accused again raped her. The woman said she later came to Mumbai but the accused kept harassing her. The victim said that she had lodged a police complaint earlier but the accused gave an affidavit that he will not harass her and requested her to take back the complaint. In her complaint, the victim said that after she refused to accede to the demands of the accused, he created fake IDs in her name and has been posting objectionable photos and sending objectionable messages to harass her. The victim said in her complaint the accused has also threatened to kill her and her family members. (ANI) According to an official statement, Army launched a joint operation with Jammu and Kashmir Police on the Line of Control (LoC) in the Poonch sector on the intervening night of May 30-31 and intercepted 3-4 terrorists while they attempting to cross the fence taking the advantage of bad weather and heavy rain. "After tracking the movement at about 1.30 hours, a well-sited Indian Army ambush on challenging them was fired upon and in the retaliatory firefight, some terrorists have been hit," the statement said. The security forces then cordoned off the area and a search operation was launched. "Blood trails have been found. Three terrorists with some weapons and war-like stores including one IED and Narco have been apprehended. One Indian Army soldier was injured in the ensuing firing and has been evacuated," the statement further mentioned. Army recovered 10 kg IED (improvised explosive device) from the terrorists. The search operations were in progress. Further details are awaited. (ANI) Nitesh Purohit on Wednesday withdrew his petition relating to the Chhattisgarh liquor scam from the Supreme Court. A bench of justices Bela M Trivedi and Prashant Kumar Mishra granted permission to Purohit to withdraw his petition. ED arrested Nitesh Purohit on May 11 in the matter and now he is under judicial custody. Meanwhile, the bench listed the plea by Amit Singh, who claimed that he has faced custodial torture, in the second week of August. The top court observed on Tuesday, "These days there is a trend going on that various petitions filed before the top court challenging the constitutional validity of certain provisions of PMLA which has been decided finally, then seek consequential relief and bypassing other forums which are open to petitioners." The observation had come on Tuesday when various petitioners sought to withdraw petitions challenging money laundering cases relating to the Chhattisgarh liquor scam and certain provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The top court had said despite the Vijay Madanlal judgment passed by the Supreme Court last year, there is a trend prevailing in writ petitions filed before this court under Article 32 challenging the Constitutional validity of certain provisions of PMLA which has been decided finally and then seek consequential relief. The top court had remarked that these reliefs are bypassing other forums which are open to petitioners. Various petitions challenging money laundering cases relating to the Chhattisgarh liquor scam and certain provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act were withdrawn from Supreme Court on Tuesday. The court however had granted liberty to petitioners to seek remedies available as per law in other appropriate forums. Chattisgarh's Excise official Niranjan Das and various others including Karishma Dhebar, Anwar Dhebar and Pinki Singh had approached Supreme Court. They had challenged certain provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The petitioner had also sought quashing of the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) in liquor irregularities matter in Chhattisgarh. ED is conducting an investigation into the liquor scam which ran between 2019 to 2022 in which corruption was done in multiple ways. The bribe was collected from the distillers per each case of liquor procured from them by the CSMCL, they alleged. The ED investigation has revealed that Arun Pati Tripathi through his direct actions at the insistence of Anwar Dhebar, corrupted the entire liquor system of Chhattisgarh to maximize corruption in the department. He made policy changes in conspiracy with his other colleagues and gave tenders to associates of Anwar Dhebar so that maximum benefits could be taken, it further stated. "Despite being a senior ITS Officer and MD of CSMCL, he went against the ethos of the functioning of any State Excise Department and used the State-run shops to sell unaccounted kacha liquor," ED has alleged. ED alleged that his complicit actions resulted in massive losses to the state exchequer and filled the pockets of the beneficiaries of the Liquor Syndicate with more than Rs 2000 Crore in illegal proceeds of crime. The accused also received a substantial share in this loot. Thus, the very objective of CSMCL to increase the state's revenue and to provide quality controlled liquor to citizens was violated by him for his personal illegal gains, read the official statement. ED has conducted consequential search operations at locations in Raipur, Bhilai and Mumbai and the searches have resulted in the discovery of 53 acres of land in Naya Raipur having a book value of Rs 21.60 crore acquired by Anwar Dhebar by using proceeds of crime in the name of a JV. This property was purchased through a maze of transactions in the name of an associate by routing proceeds of crime acquired from an FL-10A licensee. During recent search proceedings, ED has seized cash worth Rs 20 lacs and multiple incriminating documents, mentioned the official statement. In searches in Mumbai, unaccounted investments worth around Rs 1 Crore, with a share trading firm in the name of Arvind Singh and Pinki Singh w/o Arvind Singh were found and the same have been frozen under PMLA. Earlier, ED had frozen Fixed Deposits worth Rs 27.5 Crore from Trilok Singh Dhillon. Earlier, ED had seized jewellery worth Rs 28 Crore from the house of a Country Liquor Distiller. (ANI) Targeting the BJP-led government, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said, "what is happening to Muslims in India today, happened to Dalits in the 1980s" and it has "to be fought with affection". Speaking at the 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' event in San Francisco in the United States, Rahul Gandhi alleged that the impact of some actions of the BJP-led government was being felt by minorities and people from the Dalit and tribal community. "It is being felt by the Muslims most directly because it is done most directly to them. But in fact, it is done to all communities. The way you (Muslims) are feeling attacked, I can guarantee Sikhs, Christians, Dalits, and tribals are feeling the same. You can't cut hatred with hatred., but only with love and affection," Gandhi said. "Also, this is a periodical thing. What is happening to Muslims in India today happened to Dalits in the 1980s. If you went to UP in the 1980s, this was happening with Dalits...We have to challenge it, fight it and do it with love and affection and not with hatred and we will do that," he added. The Congress leader was responding to a question concerning Muslims in India from 'Bay Area Muslim community' and the steps Congress will take to tackle the issues faced by them. Rahul Gandhi is on a six-day visit to the United States to interact with the Indian diaspora and express the Congress party's "commitment to democratic values in India and across the world". During the event, Rahul Gandhi also spoke about "economic inequality" and said that while some people were finding it difficult to make ends meet, about "five people have lakhs of crores" rupees. The Congress leader talked about the caste census conducted during the Congress-led UPA government, MNREGA and the NYAY (Nyuntam Aay Yojana) proposed by the Congress. "When we were in power, we had carried out the caste census. The idea was to take an X-Ray of society. Because without understanding the exact demographic and who is who, it is very difficult to distribute power effectively. We have been asking the BJP to release the numbers of the caste census and they are of course not doing it. When we will come to power we will do that," he said. "We are committed to making India a fair place. We understand deeply that India today in terms of its treatment of Dalits, tribals, the poor and minorities is not a fair place. And there are many things that can be done. The NYAY scheme that we proposed, MNREGA, increases education and healthcare spending, all these things can be done". Attacking the Narendra Modi government, he alleged that it does not want to discuss issues of price rise, unemployment, and inequality and was trying to cause distractions. "I would have to look at exactly how they are planning to do it (delimitation exercise to increase the number of MPs). What criteria they are using? I would be interested to know how have they come up with the number 800. These things should not be done flippantly. India is a conversation, a negotiation between its languages, its people, their history and its culture. And the negotiation has to be fair. "All sections of the country should feel that there is fairness in the process of negotiation. But, these are all distractions. The real issue is price rise, unemployment, and inequality. BJP can't really discuss them, so they have to do the old sceptre thin. Lying down and doing all that. Aren't you happy that I am not lying down?" he asked. Answering another query, he said as per Constitution, the definition of India is 'Union of States'. "The idea is that the history, culture, and language of each and every state has to be protected under the union. BJP-RSS is attacking that idea as well as the Constitution of India. I know that Tamil is more than just a language for the people of Tamil Nadu. And I would never allow the Tamil language to be threatened. Because for me, an attack on Tamil, Bengali, Hindi, Kannada or Punjabi is an attack on India," he said. Answering a query, he said allies of Congress had objections to Women's Reservation Bill and the party will work for its passage when it comes to power. (ANI) At least 10 people were killed and around 55 injured when a bus fell into a deep gorge on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway on Tuesday morning. "Expressing grief on the bus accident in Jammu and Kashmir, PM @narendramodi has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF for the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000," PMO tweeted. According to officials, the bus was on its way to Katra from Amritsar when the incident took place near Jhajjar Kotli - about 15 km from Katra in Jammu district. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Jammu, Chandan Kohli on Tuesday said that all the injured were shifted to the hospital and are undergoing treatment. Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also expressed condolences. (ANI) Slamming Rahul Gandhi over his remarks in the United States, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur on Wednesday accused him of "insulting" the country and said the Congress leader is unable to digest praise of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from foreign leaders. "Rahul Gandhi always insults India during his foreign visits. PM Modi met almost 24 PMs and Presidents of the world and held over 50 meetings during his foreign visit. Recently, the Australian PM said that 'PM Modi is the Boss', the PM of Italy said that PM Modi is the most popular leader in the world and the Prime Minister of a country greeted him by touching his feet," he said. "Today, the world sees hope in the leadership of India. This never happened in 75 years. The fact is that because of our leader, the respect of 140 crore countrymen is increasing. Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party are unable to digest this," he added. The BJP leader said that Rahul Gandhi raises questions about India's progress when the country's stature is rising. "Even in the past, he (Rahul Gandhi) does not consider India as a nation. He calls it a union of states and also raises questions about India's progress. After all, what does Rahul Gandhi want to achieve by going abroad, under this sponsored program? Is his only job to throw mud on the country? At a time when India's stature is continuously rising in the world, Rahul Gandhi is raising questions on the country," he said. He also targeted Rahul Gandhi over his remarks that what is happening to Muslims in India today, happened to Dalits in 1980s. Anurag Thakur said that Congress was in power in Uttar Pradesh and also at the Centre for the most part of eighties. "The period that Rahul Gandhi is talking about..In the 1980s, Dalits and SC families were oppressed, Congress was in power in the country and also in Uttar Pradesh. Perhaps he wanted to go out and tell that Dalits and minorities were oppressed under Congress rule and 'Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas' is taking place under the BJP," Thakur said. Anurag Thakur said that Indian culture has been 'rejuvenated' under the BJP rule and the nation won't accept "insults". "The economy had suffered during their (Congress) time. Under BJP, India has become the fifth-largest economy in the world. Under Congress's rule, Indian traditions were under attack. But under BJP, our culture and tradition have been rejuvenated. We have come out of the colonial mindset and started being proud of our glorious history. Today, if Rahul Gandhi insults India and Indians abroad, then the country will never accept it," he added Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday targeted the BJP-led government at an event in the United States and said that "what is happening to Muslims in India today, happened to Dalits in 1980s". Speaking at the 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' event in San Francisco, Rahul Gandhi alleged that the impact of some actions of the BJP-led government was being felt by minorities and people from the Dalit and tribal community and it has "to be fought with affection". "It is being felt by the Muslims most directly because it is done most directly to them. But in fact, it is done to all communities. The way you (Muslims) are feeling attacked, I can guarantee Sikhs, Christians, Dalits, and tribals are feeling the same. You can't cut hatred with hatred., but only with love and affection," Gandhi said. "Also, this is a periodical thing. What is happening to Muslims in India today happened to Dalits in the 1980s. If you went to UP in the 1980s, this was happening with Dalits...We have to challenge it, fight it and do it with love and affection and not with hatred and we will do that," he added. The Congress leader was responding to a question concerning Muslims in India from 'Bay Area Muslim community' and the steps Congress will take to tackle the issues faced by them. Rahul Gandhi is on a six-day visit to the United States. During the event, Rahul Gandhi also spoke about "economic inequality" and said that while some people were finding it difficult to make the ends meet, about "five people have lakhs of crores" rupees. (ANI) The National Investigation Agency (NIA), in operations conducted with the support of Jharkhand Police, has seized a large number of explosives, arms and ammunition from the state in the People''s Liberation Front of India (PLFI) terror funding case over the past two days, the agency said on Wednesday.The seizure was made from Khunti, Gumla and Simdega districts of Jharkhand on Monday and Tuesday based on disclosures made by Dinesh Gope, self-styled supremo of PLFI who was arrested by the NIA on May 21. Gope, who has been in NIA custody for the last eight days, had earlier too led the NIA to seize a huge cache of arms and ammunition in a forest in the Gumla district. Gope, who had been absconding before he was caught in New Delhi, led the NIA and Jharkhand Police on Monday to recover about 62.3 kg of Gelatin and 732 rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition from the Jhariatoli and Garai area in the Khunti district of Jharkhand. On the same day, one pistol, 11 rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition and 30 rounds of .303 ammunition were seized from Kisni village in the Kamdara area of Gumla district. Subsequently, on Tuesday, the NIA said, two IEDs were also seized from the forest hill of Mahuatoli in the Simdega district of Jharkhand.This was the third such seizure in less than a week. On May 26, a huge cache of ammunition (1,245 rounds of 7.62 mm and 271 rounds of 5.56 mm) was seized as a result of sustained investigations into the case following Gope''s arrest.Dinesh Gope alias Kuldeep Yadav alias Badku of district Khunti in Jharkhand was earlier charge-sheeted by the NIA relating to the recovery of demonetized currency of Rs 25.38 lakhs from the operatives of PLFI-- a proscribed Naxal outfit of Jharkhand. He had been absconding and was finally nabbed by the NIA on May 21 and sent to NIA custody by NIA Special Court on May 22.The NIA had also declared a Reward of Rs 5 lakh for inputs leading to the capture of Gope, in addition to the reward of Rs 25 lakh announced by the Jharkhand Government. Gope used to extort money and execute attacks through his PLFI team members to terrorize and intimidate businessmen, contractors and the public at large, NIA investigations have shown. "The accused, along with his associates, was involved in depositing the demonetized currency in a bank account at a petrol pump, to be later collected through levy and extortion," said the NIA, adding "the illegal money was then invested through banking channels and dubious shell companies in the name of close associates and family members of the accused Dinesh Gope."Known previously as Jharkhand Liberation Tigers (JLT), PLFI is responsible for hundreds of terror incidents in Jharkhand, Bihar and Odisha including several murders through the use of weapons, as per the NIA investigations. The outfit used to lure unemployed youth by providing them with motorbikes, mobile phones and easy money. (ANI) Some of the first migrants to be processed in Brownsville, Texas, after Title 42 expired walk from Matamoros, Mexico, across the international bridge to present themselves to U.S. immigration officials on May 12, 2023. (Meridith Kohut/The New York Times) U.S. border policy is stuck in the past. The expiration of Title 42 gives the U.S. government another chance to effectively manage migration and border security, but it will be successful only if it addresses the reality of Western Hemisphere migration. Our deterrence policies and enforcement infrastructure were built decades ago for single adult men seeking employment. Since 2013, vulnerable populations unaccompanied children, families and vulnerable adults seeking refuge have dominated border arrivals. Successive administrations, no matter how draconian or punitive their chosen policies, have been unable to prevent migrants from arriving at the border. Advertisement The last three years have seen a firm commitment to Title 42, public health guidance implemented in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic that expelled most border crossers without granting them an asylum interview. This policy was an abject failure at preventing the spread of COVID-19. The side effect was that it was absolutely terrible for border enforcement. Without any real legal penalties for unauthorized crossing, Title 42 incentivized migrants to try again and again to get across the border and drove border encounter numbers to very high levels. The U.S. government needs a nimble, flexible approach that can adapt to the constantly changing demographics of migrants at the border. Advertisement [ Editorial: Mayor Johnson inherits the migrant crisis. Does he have a plan? Will he share it? ] The Biden administration has released the contours of a regional plan to address migration that attempts to prevent many migrants from requesting asylum at the border through a combination of deterrence initiatives and alternative legal pathways. The deterrence initiatives presume migrants are ineligible for asylum in the United States if they enter without documentation and have traveled through another country where they could ask for protection. These restrictions on asylum concern advocates, who rightfully are worried about the impact on vulnerable people who need protection in the U.S. rather than elsewhere in the region. The use of alternative legal pathways has shown some success. The family sponsorship program for Venezuela significantly decreased encounters of Venezuelans since the program launched. Additional programs for Nicaraguans, Haitians and Cubans will hopefully be just as effective. The announcement of increased refugee resettlement, regional processing centers and agreements to share resettlement across other nations in the region is promising. U.S. Customs and Border Protections CBP One app, which allows migrants to request asylum appointments, is a good idea but poorly executed, with too few appointments and design flaws that hinder its usefulness. The success of all these efforts will depend greatly on swift and effective implementation. The administrations plan isnt perfect, but it has some strong components. The next few months will show whether these new policies can effectively manage migration. But the missing piece in all of this is, of course, Congress. Even the best border policies wont be as effective as they could be without an equally robust legal immigration system, which only Congress can provide. For many migrants, asylum is the only legal pathway to the U.S., creating huge backlogs in our asylum system. Many in Congress are focused on the idea of reforming our asylum system, but continuing to try to fix asylum wont stop people from coming to the border. The U.S. certainly needs additional immigration judges. We probably need to streamline asylum processing. But changing the rules on who deserves protection in the U.S. wont solve the problem. [ Sheldon Jacobson: Heres how the government can improve processing immigrants after the expiration of Title 42 ] Lawmakers from both parties championed Title 42 and urged the Biden administration to keep it in place, despite its ineffectiveness. There is even bipartisan legislation that, if passed, would reinstitute a Title 42-like border enforcement mechanism but without the veneer of keeping Americans healthy. Advertisement This is disappointing. A government serious about managing its border would not maintain a policy that contributed to dysfunction like Title 42 did. The return to regular immigration processing has been a bit boring so far. The five-year bars to reentry for unlawful crossers are likely encouraging some to wait for their chance to gain access at a port of entry. But given the scale of the refugee crisis in our region, returning to the policies designed for migration patterns from 20 years ago wont work for long. The migrants leaving home for a better life in the U.S. need our laws to provide them another legal way to enter. Permanent, sustainable change to the U.S. immigration system can be done only with legislation. If Congress is serious about the border, it has the power to legislate good changes. I remain hopeful it will. Laura Collins is director of the George W. Bush Institute-SMU Economic Growth Initiative in Dallas. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the formation of an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) for facilitating "World's Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector" by the convergence of various schemes of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Ministry of Food Processing Industries. Briefing the media after a meeting of the union cabinet, Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur said the world's largest food storage scheme has been approved in the cooperative sector today. "This scheme will be implemented at a cost of Rs 1 lakh crore. Under this scheme, a godown of a capacity of 2,000 tonnes will be constructed in every block. An inter-ministerial committee will be formed for this. A decision has also been taken to start City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and Sustain - CITIIS 2.0 program today," he said. In order to ensure time-bound and uniform implementation of the plan in a professional manner, the Ministry of Cooperation will implement a pilot project in at least 10 selected districts of different states and union territories in the country. The pilot would provide valuable insights into the various regional requirements of the project, the learnings from which will be suitably incorporated for the country-wide implementation of the plan. (ANI) A Mumbai-based model, who was allegedly raped and blackmailed by a resident from Ranchi, has said that the accused was pressuring her to "change religion" and had "tried to kill" her. A case was registered against the accused Tanveer Akhtar Mohd Lake Khan at Mumbai's Versova police station following a complaint by the woman. The case has been transferred to Ranchi Police. The woman alleged that the accused met her with a false name and she discovered his real name later. "He was putting pressure on me to marry him and convert my religion. All this started in the year 2020 when I joined his modelling agency. Earlier he told me that his name is Yash but after four months, I got to know that his real name is Tanveer Akhtar. He is sending my pictures to my family members and commenting on my social media posts. He also tried to kill me in Mumbai. After watching the film 'The Kerala Files', I got motivated to register a complaint against him," she said. The victim said she joined the modelling agency in January, 2021, for the 15-day modelling workshop, but was told that the workshop will go for a longer period". She alleged that Tanveer Akhtar sent objectionable pictures to her family members to blackmail her. "He also tried to kill me in Mumbai, which I have also mentioned in my complaint. He claims that no one will be able to harm him. He (Tanveer) sent my pictures to my family members and tried to take me away from them. He contacted my workplace and said that I am his wife and won't be working there. He also started commenting on my social media posts," she said. "My only aim is to work for my career. I came to Mumbai after persuading my parents to pursue modelling and acting," she added. The victim alleged in her complaint to the Mumbai police that she is a native of Bhagalpur in Bihar and came to Ranchi in connection with a modelling workshop where she came in contact with the accused who has repeatedly raped her since 2021 and threatened and blackmailed her. She said the accused had also threatened her with dire consequences if she informed anyone The case was registered at Mumbai's Versova police station under sections 376(2)(N), 328, 506, 504, 323 of the IPC and section 67 of the IT Act. SSP Ranchi Kishor Kaushal said they are in touch with Mumbai Police. "The complainant lodged a complaint with Mumbai Police at Versova Police Station on May 29. Since the incident took place in Ranchi, this case was transferred to Ranchi Police. We have lodged a proper FIR and we are investigating this case. We are also in contact with Mumbai Police and the complainant. Further action will be taken," the police official told ANI. Accused Tanveer Akhtar refuted allegations against him and accused the woman of circulating his "obscene" images and "blackmailing" her. "The allegations against me are completely false. She (complainant) worked at my agency. After my business went into loss due to her, I asked for compensation. She started blackmailing me. She circulated my obscene photos among my friends and relatives. She also took the help of her friends and boyfriend. She wanted to steal my data...she managed the data here so she had access to it," he said in a self-made video. (ANI) On Monday night, the thieves broke open the shop and made away with gold ornaments weighing to be more than 1.91 kg. The incident was recorded on CCTC cameras. The local businessmen were also irked over the incident. Deputy Police Commissioner (DCP) Dr Amrita Duhan formed a team of 10 officials and employed them at railway stations and bus stands. The CCTV cameras were checked and the team found that the thieves had moved to a guest house and changed their clothes to deceive the police. On investigating further, the team got the information that the accused had gone to the Roadways bus stand. The team was sent over there and along with this, Jaipur and Ajmer Police were also sent an alert regarding the same. With the help of the Ajmer police, all the hotels located in the market were searched. And the thieves were caught sitting in Ajmer Roadways Bus by the Jodhpur Police. They were identified as Sheikh Farhad Ali and Ismail Mundel, and both of them belong to Hugli, West Bengal. Ali was released from the Kanpur Jail in connection with the engraving case (ANI). Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin in a letter to Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditiya Scindia urged for the re-introduction of direct flights between Tokyo and Chennai, and increasing the number of flights between Singapore and Madurai. In his letter, Stalin pointed out that earlier, Japan's largest airline had launched a direct flight between Chennai and Tokyo, but it got discontinued during the COVID-19 pandemic, and since then itt remained discontinued. "I wish to point out that at present there is no direct flight connectivity between Chennai and Tokyo. In October 2019, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan's largest airline, launched a direct flight service between Chennai and Tokyo which was discontinued during the COVID-19 pandemic. This service has not been resumed subsequently. The lack of direct flight connectivity more than doubles the travel time between these two destinations by about 7 hours, which is significant. There have been persistent requests from the Japanese business community in Tamil Nadu to resume direct flight services between Chennai and Tokyo," read the letter from CM Stalin. Referring to the Global Investors' Meet in January 2024, Stalin said "As we seek to attract greater investments from Japan, resumption of direct flights would indeed be a commendable measure." In another request, Stalin sought approval for more flight operations between Singapore and Madurai as Singapore has a sizeable population of nearly 4 lakh persons of Tamil origin. "There is only a tri-weekly flight between Singapore and Madurai. This issue of more flight services between Singapore and Madurai was raised by the Minister for Home Affairs and Law of the Government of Singapore, Thiru K Shanmugham when he met me. A similar request was also raised by many members of the Tamil diaspora in Singapore. I would be grateful if the request to permit more flights between Singapore and Madurai is favourably considered," the letter further read. (ANI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Wednesday, reviewed flood management preparations via video-conferencing and directed the district authorities to conduct an on-spot inspection of the flood-sensible/prone areas, an official statement said. "Saving lives and property is our priority during floods, all districts should be in alert mode", said the Chief Minister. Also, the CM instructed the officials to prepare by June 15. He also directed the officials to do the preparation within the given time as there are 24 districts sensible to flood. "No one with a criminal history or mafia connections should be allowed to bid on irrigation department projects", said CM Yogi. In addition to this, he also said, "Sensitive or susceptible places should be physically inspected by the district magistrate and local public representatives. Flood victims must receive immediate assistance, quality of relief supplies must not be compromised. Silt should not be poured on the private land of any farmer, if it is necessary, get it disposed of through MGNREGA. Chances of disease spread rise during floods, set up health teams for relief camps". CM Adityanath also instructed all 780 flood protection committees to remain in active mode. Speaking about the plans carried out to prevent flood, he said, "Well-planned efforts made in the last six years to find a long-term solution to the flood problem, which has been a major cause of widespread loss of life and property in the state for decades, have produced positive outcomes. There has been an unprecedented reduction in the number of flood-prone districts. As per the advice of experts, we have been successful in minimizing the risk of flood by using the latest technology. Coordination between departments has been effective in ensuring that people are safe from floods. This year also, with better coordination, prompt action and better management, the safety of the people should be ensured in case of floods". Mentioning the sensible districts, he said, " Adequate reserve stock should be collected for flood emergencies in very sensitive and vulnerable areas. Adequate lighting arrangements and necessary equipment should also be arranged at these places. All 780 Flood Protection Committees should remain in active mode. The District Magistrate himself should inspect the extremely sensitive/ sensitive embankments". "523 embankments with a length of 3869 km have been constructed on various rivers for protection from floods in the state. In view of the possibility of flood, continuous monitoring of all the embankments should be done. Flood relief control rooms at the state level and district level should be in 24x7 active mode", added the CM. CM Adityanath also concentrated on the chances of the spread of diseases after and during the flood. He suggested that special health kits be prepared by the Medical and Health Department and sent to the districts. Additionally, he stated that Chlorine, ORS, and fever medicines should be available in sufficient quantities. He further said, "There should not be any compromise on the quality of relief material provided to the flood-affected people". Earlier, in 2022, there were almost 200 districts affected by floods in UP's Balrampur. There were flood-affected areas in Varanasi as well. There were 619 villages across 18 districts affected by flood. (ANI) Vishva Hindu Parishad working president Alok Kumar on Wednesday said that the recent verdict given by Allahabad High Court in the Gyanvapi Mosque matter will pave the way for speedy judgement in this case ahead. Earlier today the Allahabad High Court dismissed the petition of the Anjuman Islamia Masjid Committee Varanasi and held that the suit filed for worship of visible and invisible Hindu Deities within the Gyanvapi Complex is not barred by The Places of Worship Act. Welcoming the judgement, the VHP leader Alok Kumar said, "Technical objections have been negated. The suit would now proceed on merits and we do see a success at the end of the tunnel." "We hope that now the suit would expeditiously proceed towards a final judgment," he added. Allahabad High Court in its order dismissed the Muslim side's plea challenging the maintainability of five Hindu women worshippers' suit filed in Varanasi Court seeking the right to worship inside Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi. The lawsuit filed by a group of Hindu women worshippers seeking the right to pray in the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi was valid, the court ruled, allowing the case to continue in the Varanasi District Court. Earlier a civil suit in the district court of Varanasi was filed regarding the right to worship. The Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, Varanasi had filed an application objecting to the maintainability of the suit that the court has no jurisdiction to hear the suit under the provisions of the Places of Worship Act, 1991. The court rejected the application of the committee which was later challenged in the High Court. (ANI) All-India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi took people of only one religion inside the new Parliament building during its inauguration. "PM Modi took people of only one religion inside the new Parliament building (during inauguration). He should have taken people of all religions as he is the Prime Minister of 130 crore people of India and not only of Hindus," Owaisi said while addressing the media. Reiterating his stance, Owaisi said, "I was ready to go for the Parliament inauguration if the Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla had done it." Accusing PM Modi of a one-sided move, the AIMIM chief said, "PM Modi should have taken Sikhs, Muslims, Christians and Buddhists as well. He should have taken everybody to the floor of the Parliament. The Prime Minister made a one-sided move." Earlier, Asaduddin Owaisi hit out at Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) for its comparison of the new Parliament building with a coffin. "RJD has no stand, sometimes they speak about secularism and make Nitish Kumar, who came out of BJP, their chief minister. The old Parliament building did not even have clearance from Delhi Fire Service. Why are they (RJD) calling the Parliament a coffin? They could have said anything else, why do they need to bring this angle?," said AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi while talking to ANI. The RJD had posted a photo of a coffin and asked 'Yeh kya hai (What is this?) in hindi. Taking to Twitter, the RJD shared a photo of a coffin and asked 'Yeh kya hai (What is this?) in hindi. RJD's Shakti Yadav's later explained said that the coffin in the party's tweet was a representation of "democracy being buried." Twenty Opposition parties boycotted the opening of the new Parliament building stating that the inauguration of the building without President Droupadi Murmu "insults the high office of the President, and violates the letter and spirit of the Constitution". Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the new Parliament building to the nation by unveiling a plaque and installing the 'Sengol' in the Lok Sabha chamber. (ANI) Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Wednesday said that he will not compromise on the issue of corruption and with the future of youth adding that the state government must take action in this regard. While addressing the media in Tonk, Sachin Pilot said, "It is not possible for me to make any kind of compromise on corruption and with the future of the youth. I made a promise to the youth in my meeting in Jaipur on May 15 and what I had said at that time, I have put in front of the party leaders in Delhi and now everything is in the notice of the top leaders of the party." He further mentioned that an investigation should also begin which should examine the corruption of the previous state government led by Vasundhara Raje and stated that changes should be brought in the functioning of Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC). "The corruption and loot that took place during the tenure of the previous Vasundhara government should be effectively investigated, while the youth who were wronged should also get justice. Radical changes should be brought in RPSC also. I am waiting for the state government to take action on all these," Pilot said. Sachin Pilot also pointed out that he has done nothing wrong by putting the grievances of the youth in front of top Congress leaders in Delhi as the party has suggested on multiple occasions that it stands against corruption. "Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has also reiterated many times that our party is against corruption and works on the policy of zero tolerance, as well as our party will not tolerate any atrocities against the youth So there is nothing wrong in what I said," he said. Earlier on Monday Congress High Command summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot for separate meetings with party president Mallikarjuna Kharge in view of the political tussle in Rajasthan. After a meeting with Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot Congress projected a united front saying that the two leaders will fight together against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the upcoming elections. In this regard, KC Venugopal said, "We have decided to fight elections unitedly. Definitely, we will win the elections in Rajasthan. Both Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot have unanimously agreed with the proposal." Earlier Pilot had launched a 5-day Jan Sangharsh Yatra' to protest against the inaction of the Rajasthan government in the alleged corruption cases during the previous Vasundhara Raje-led BJP government in the State. (ANI) Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director, World Health Organisation South-East Asia Region congratulated India on becoming the first country in the world to regulate anti-tobacco warnings on OTT platforms and commended the country's strong leadership for this landmark step. In a message, Dr, Poonam said, "Congratulations India on becoming the first country in the world to regulate anti-tobacco warning on OTT platforms. Today's move demonstrates India's unstinted commitment to protect health of people from the harmful effects of tobacco. I commend the country's strong leadership and all stakeholders for this landmark step." On World No Tobacco Day on May 31, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya released OTT guidelines for the regulation of online depiction of tobacco products in online curated content. As per the guidelines issued by the health ministry, publishers of online curated content that display tobacco products or their use will be required to comply with specific guidelines. "Anti-tobacco health warning message displayed as a static message must be legible and readable, with black font on a white background, and must include the warnings "Tobacco causes cancer" or "Tobacco kills"," stated the guidelines. Addressing the occasion today, Mansukh Mandaviya showed concern over rising tobacco consumption among the young generation, which is the future of our nation. The Union Health Minister appealed to people to break free from the shackles of tobacco and embrace a healthier lifestyle. "It is time to create wide awareness among youth and the nation regarding the seriously debilitating and harmful effects of tobacco consumption", Mandaviya stated. He mooted the idea to start a Lok Bhagidari campaign in mission mode through Jan Abhiyaan. "Enlisting the measures taken by India to free people from Tobacco addiction and prevent tobacco use, he highlighted that today's OTT guidelines will go a long way to dissuade tobacco consumption," a release said. The ministry informed that the failure to comply with the provisions outlined may result in action taken by an inter-ministerial committee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology either suo moto or on receiving a complaint. The committee will identify the publisher of the online curated content, issue a notice providing a reasonable opportunity to explain the failure and require appropriate modifications to the content. (ANI) According to the police, the woman was admitted to Sion Hospital in Mumbai with 70 per cent of burn injuries. "She is critical," the official said. The accused has been identified as NandKishore Patel (20), "A man, Nandkishore Patel has been arrested for setting ablaze a 20-year-old woman in the Dharavi area of Mumbai," Mumbai police said. Police said they have registered a case against the accused under section 307 (attempt to murder) of the Indian Penal Code. "The woman has been admitted to Sion Hospital under critical conditions with 70 per cent of burn injuries, " said the official. During the preliminary probe conducted by the police, it is learnt that the accused sprinkled an inflammable substance on the woman and lit a fire. An investigation has been started to find the exact cause behind the incident, police said. More details are awaited (ANI) Cartoonist Scott Stantis on Chicago cops with histories of lying and making false reports. (Scott Stantis / For the Chicago Tribune) If a police officer cannot be trusted, then theres really no reason for that cop to remain on the force. Thats the thrust of a new report from the citys primary watchdog revealing serious credibility fissures at the Chicago Police Department. The Chicago Office of Inspector General found that more than a hundred Chicago Police Department officers gave false information during criminal investigations. In many cases, the officers behavior and how it was handled by the department and its oversight bodies speaks to CPDs persistent culture of cover-up. The report cites cops who lied about witnessing excessive force used by fellow officers, lied about verbally abusing Black youths with racist language and harassing Black youths, and filed false police reports. Advertisement CPDs stated policy, Inspector General Deborah Witzburg reported, is to terminate officers who have been found to make false police reports or statements. More often than not, however, the departments response was far too lenient. In one 2019 instance, an officer witnessed a fellow cop slam an intoxicated individual to the ground, causing the persons head to hit the curb. Video footage showed that the man was clearly unconscious, but the witnessing officer stated repeatedly that the victim remained conscious and was alert and/or responsive. Its the kind of code of silence behavior that should get an officer fired, but instead the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), which investigates CPD rules violations by officers, recommended a 90-day suspension. Advertisement In another case, an officer who handcuffed a youth after a 2017 fight outside a school punched the youth while other officers at the scene watched. One of the officers, a sergeant, repeatedly denied seeing his fellow cop strike the youth. The sergeant should have been fired but instead was given a 60-day suspension by COPA. Is firing a cop for lying too harsh? No, its not, principally because these arent little white lies. These officers were lying about police brutality, about racist treatment of Black youths, and doing so on police reports and to officials with the departments internal affairs division along with COPA and the Police Board. Officers who lie compromise prosecutions of criminal cases and make the city even more vulnerable to lawsuits and multimillion-dollar settlements and judgments. Most of all, officer untruthfulness erodes the already fragile trust that communities, particularly those in Black and brown neighborhoods, have in law enforcement. When that trust fades, violent neighborhoods become even more unsafe. Its not just the lying thats the problem. Law enforcement in Chicago is structured to sweep officer credibility issues under the rug. Witzburg found that the department doesnt keep track which officers have been deemed guilty of conveying false information either in writing or orally, a violation of what CPD calls Rule 14. In some cases, officers were found guilty of lying but had those findings erased from their disciplinary histories. Some cops guilty of Rule 14 violations ended up getting promoted or assigned to high-profile duties such as work on tactical or gang teams, or the departments FBI task force. The department pushed back on Witzburgs recommendation that officers who have been found guilty of Rule 14 violations should be fired. CPD says it has to abide by police union agreements that give officers due process rights to defend themselves against recommended discipline. Thats as it should be, but if the ultimate finding is that an officer deliberately lied about material evidence in an investigation or on a report, we find it hard to see any room for second chances. Advertisement Both COPA and the Police Board suggested that Witzburg lobby the City Council to change the law so that any officer who is found guilty of violating Rule 14 be fired. Thats a sound, straightforward suggestion that the City Council should adopt. But theres an even deeper problem here. Witzburgs findings reinforce the need for CPD, the City Council and Mayor Brandon Johnson to unequivocally commit to solving the long-standing lack of trust that minority communities have in Chicago law enforcement. That keeps citizens in those communities from cooperating with police to solve violent crime, and it perpetuates a toxic us vs. them mindset. Lack of trust also is at the core of the consent decree, the federally mandated slate of reforms that overhaul training, supervision and accountability at the department. Its the consent decree that mandated Witzburgs investigation into CPDs enforcement of Rule 14. Former Chicago police Detective Reynaldo Guevara leaves the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse on June 8, 2018, during a trial in a lawsuit accusing him and others of framing a man for murder. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune) If Chicagoans need a reminder of the damage done by fabricated information, look no further than the saga of now-former police Detective Reynaldo Guevara, whose alleged misconduct included claims of manipulating witnesses and fabricating evidence, and led to the overturning of more than 30 convictions since 2016. Guevara has never been charged and has repeatedly pleaded the Fifth when confronted with the allegations. His actions have cost the city tens of millions of dollars in settlements and legal costs. The harm to people who went to prison because of the disgraced Chicago detective is incalculable. Earlier this year, one alleged victim, David Lugo, talked to reporters about not being there for relatives who had died while he was in prison. I did 26 years in prison due to Guevara, Lugo said. I lost my mother, my sister, my brother, cousins, and other family members. Advertisement Johnsons task of forging newfound trust in CPD is a formidable one. He can start by ensuring that whoever becomes the new Chicago police superintendent is someone committed to zero tolerance for fabrication, and determined to uncouple the department from its entrenched habit of circling the wagons whenever critical reforms are suggested. Join the discussion on Twitter @chitribopinions and on Facebook. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. Delhi Finance Minister Kailash Gahlot on Wednesday convened a meeting with senior officials from the Department of Trade and Taxes and reviewed the situation of Goods and Service Tax in the national capital. "He reviewed the current situation of the department and the problems which are being faced and discussed the measures to make the system of tax collection systematic and structured in Delhi. He also focussed on the existing loopholes and various ways of plugging them, while ensuring the ease of convenience while filing the returns," an official statement said. In a statement, Finance Minister, Kailash Gahlot said, "Trade and Taxes department plays an important role in the government. The revenue collections of GST and VAT combined was more than Rs 34,000 Crores in 2022-23 while this year we expect remarkable growth in the collection." "The plan is to have a well-structured system by adopting the best practices from all the leading states across the country. In order to make the system more robust, the Delhi government is relying on deploying IT systems that shall make the system more efficient and transparent," he added. Kailash Gehlot also said that the Government is also focussing to increase the convenience of the taxpayers, by resolving the existing pain points in the system. "The Government is also trying to leverage the work done by various other institutions or governments by analyzing their work and figuring out a tailor-made solution to be integrated with the existing systems. The focus of the government is also to increase the convenience of the taxpayers, by resolving the existing pain points in the system," he said. "In the coming few weeks, meetings with Market and Trade Associations through Outreach Camps shall also be organized regularly to understand the grievance being faced by them and sensitize them about the latest notifications, circulars, amended provisions of DGST, the benefits of tax-paying and the repercussions of tax evasion. Their grievances will also be addressed during these Outreach Camps," he added. (ANI) Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama began a two-day special teaching for the Tibetan youth on Tuesday. Over two thousand students from different schools and colleges in and around the country gathered at the main Tibetan Temple, Tsuglagkhang, here in Dharamshala on Tuesday. Every year, the Dalai Lama imparts his teachings, especially to the younger generation. The Tibetan spiritual leader will impart teachings on human values and the Three Objects of Refuge (kyapdro ngotro) and will also conduct the ceremony of generating of Bodhichitta (semkye). Tibetan students find these teachings very important as the Dalai Lama always tries to develop human values. Tenzin Chodon, a Tibetan student said, "His Holiness has come here to give us a speech so all of us have come here to attend this event specially organized for Tibetan youth. This is very important for us because he is like a lord to us. I am feeling very happy and blessed. I want to cry." Another Tibetan student, Tsering Dicky said, "Today, all the Tibetan students have gathered here to attend a special spiritual teaching, organised for us. This is very important for us to know about the values that we have to pass on to our younger generation. I feel very blessed and lucky to be a part of this event here." Earlier, Tibetan Buddhist monks in Shimla performed traditional Cham (Lama Dance) to celebrate the birthday of the Guru Padmasambhava. Scores of monks assembled here at Dorjeedak Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Panthaghati near Shimla. Through these rituals, Tibetan Buddhist monks prayed for compassion and world peace. Before the dance performance, the monks and other Tibetan offered prayers for Guru Padmasambhava. The Buddhist monks through Lama Dance enacted the drama of the arrival of the 8 reincarnations of Lord Padmasambhava and welcomed the lord here. This dance is performed with traditional Tibetan musical instruments and monks wear masks and traditional hats and caps. The Buddhist monks here believe that this is performed to pay respects to Guru Padmasambhava. The day of the dance performance is celebrated as his birthday. All Buddhist monks pray for the long life of the Dalai Lama and also other high Lamas. Tibetan monks also offer prayers for world peace and perform dances to preserve their centuries-old tradition. People from the Tibetan community gathered here also to see the rich traditional dances of the Buddhist monks. The local residents of the Tibetan Buddhist community in exile here were pleased to take part in the Buddhist chanting. The local residents of the Tibetan Community here believe that the preaching of the Guru is important in propagating Buddhism and the message of compassion and peace. (ANI) A military spy satellite launched by North Korea earlier in the day crashed into the Yellow Sea owing to an engine problem and it plans to carry out its second launch "as soon as possible," reported Yonhap News Agency. According to Korea Central News Agency (KCNA), North Korea launched "Malligyong-1," the military reconnaissance satellite mounted on a new-type rocket named "Chollima-1," at its rocket launching station on the west coast at 6:27 am (local time). The carrier rocket fell in the Yellow Sea "after losing thrust due to the abnormal starting of the second-stage engine after the separation of the first stage during the normal flight," said KCNA in an English-language dispatch. The failure was due to "the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system and unstable character of the fuel used," read the KCNA report, citing a spokesperson of the state-run space development agency. North Korea also said that it would thoroughly investigate the serious defects that emerged in the latest satellite launch and take necessary measures to overcome them, pledging to "conduct the second launch as soon as possible through various part tests." Both South Korea and Japan issued emergency warnings advising the residents to take cover indoors if they were outside. Japan termed North Korea's projectile a "possible ballistic missile," reported Kyodo News quoting the Japanese Defence Ministry. According to the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), North Korean leader Kim Jong Un directed his country's space agency to finalise preparations for the launch of Pyongyang's first military reconnaissance satellite. Pyongyang alerted the Japan Coast Guard of three maritime hazard zones where objects may fall beginning Wednesday, two to the west of the Korean Peninsula and one to the east of the Philippines. All of these areas are not within Japan's exclusive economic zone, according to Kyodo News. Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea, Ri Pyong Chol, on Monday, said, "The North's military reconnaissance satellite is indispensable to tracking, monitoring, discriminating, controlling and coping with in advance in real time the dangerous military acts of the US and its vassal forces." Ri noted "the reckless military acts" by the US and South Korea, telling KCNA, "We steadily feel the need to expand reconnaissance and information means and improve various defensive and offensive weapons", according to Kyodo News. Japanese PM Fumio Kishida, while emphasising that Japan considers the launching of a rocket carrying a satellite equivalent to a ballistic missile test on the basis of historical precedent, warned that following through on the plan would be in violation of the UN Security Council resolutions. Sanctions have been imposed on North Korea for its weapons-related actions in accordance with United Nations resolutions. Pyongyang, which launched missiles a record 37 times last year, has continued to launch ballistic missiles this year, raising suspicions that North Korea is planning its eighth nuclear test in the near future, Kyodo News reported. (ANI) Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah on Tuesday said that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chief Imran Khan will be tried in a military court for the events of May 9 when violence erupted following his arrest and military installations came under attack, Dawn reported. In an interview with the Pakistani publication, Sanaullah accused Imran of personally carrying out the planning of the attacks on military installations before his arrest on the day, adding that there was evidence to prove the claim as well. When asked if Imran would be tried in the military court, Sanaullah said, "Absolutely, why shouldn't he? The programme that he made to target the military installations and then had it executed, in my understanding absolutely is a case of a military court." The interior minister accused the PTI chief of personally orchestrating the May 9 riots. "They (PTI supporters) chanted a slogan that 'Imran Khan is our red line', and the planning and preparation were done on Imran Khan's initiative and instigation. "He carried it all out. He is the architect of all this discord," adding that there was evidence present to back the accusation as well. "[The evidence] is documented, it is in tweets and his messages," he added. When asked how Imran was able to communicate with his party leaders even from jail, the interior minister replied, "All this [planning] was decided before he went [to jail] that 'who will do what and where. And when he is arrested, what would be the strategy and duties'. All of this was decided." Sanaullah's remarks come a day after Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that there was no decision yet on Imran's trial under the Army Act, adding, however, that he could not "rule out" such a possibility, Dawn reported. At least eight people were killed, 290 were injured, and over 1,900 protesters were rounded up across Pakistan on May 9 when an accountability court in Islamabad handed over the custody of Imran to NAB in connection with the Al Qadir Trust case. The protesters stormed the residence of the corps commander in Lahore, called Jinnah House, and tore down a gate of General Headquarters in Rawalpindi. The riots had elicited a strong reaction from the government and military with vows of taking action against the culprits, leading to an ongoing crackdown against those involved, Dawn reported. Punjab Police had also previously claimed that Imran and his close aides allegedly coordinated efforts to storm the residence of the Lahore corps commander and other buildings. Police had detected over 400 calls made by the PTI chairman and other senior leaders to allegedly incite party workers to move towards the military officer's residence in Lahore Cantt, and other sensitive public buildings, Dawn reported. It was observed that all the rioters were in contact with the PTI top leadership, based in Zaman Park. Punjab Inspector General of Police Usman Anwar confirmed the use of Imran's residence for planning the attack on the corps commander's residence. Meanwhile, the government has okayed the use of military courts to try the suspects of the May 9 riots. On Friday, Sanaullah said that 33 suspects, 19 in Punjab and 14 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, were handed over to the military. On Monday, a Rawalpindi anti-terrorism court (ATC) also directed the superintendent of the garrison city's Adiala Jail to hand over eight suspects to the military for trial. (ANI) Protests over Beijing's language policy in Inner Mongolia have become commonplace in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. Organizations like Voice of Southern Mongolia, Inner Mongolian People's Party, and Save the Mongolian Language are leading efforts to draw attention to the situation in Southern Mongolia, Voice Against Autocracy (VAA) reported. China's recent crackdown on dissidents and the arrests of activists in Mongolia have brought forth a pattern of politicized prosecutions in the country. The arbitrary nature of these prosecutions is also an indicator of deep-rooted issues within China's legal system. Voices Against Autocracy (VAA) is a private, non-governmental organisation based in Vienna, Austria. China's influence in Mongolia has also raised concerns, particularly regarding its language policy in Inner Mongolia. Mongolia which is a landlocked country in East Asia, is dependent on mineral exports to its neighbors China and Russia. The arrest of activist Munkhbayar Chuluundorj in Mongolia and the deportation of a well-known Southern Mongolian writer Lhamjab Borjigin back to China have sparked outrage and underscored fears of China's interference in Mongolia's internal affairs. Munkhbayar Chuluundorj, a human rights activist who advocates freedom for the region, was arrested in Feb 2022 and charged with "receiving instructions and funds from a foreign intelligence group". The case of Lhamjab Borjigin is even more disturbing for the human rights activists in the region. On May 3, 2023, a few Chinese policemen reached Mongolia and arrested Borjigin from his temporary residence in Ulaanbaatar, VAA reported. Shortly after the arrest, he was deported back to China on the same day. Borjigin was earlier sentenced to two years in prison in China in 2019 for writing a book titled 'China's Cultural Revolution'. After completion of the prison term in 2021, he was placed under indefinite "residential surveillance," a form of house arrest. In March 2023, Borjigin reportedly managed to escape from China and reached Mongolia, VAA reported. According to some activists belonging to the Southern Mongolian Human Rights Information Center (SMHRIC), his plan was to publish his books in Mongolia to reveal the manner in which the Chinese colonial regime was established in Southern Mongolia and how the Mongolian resistance had been quashed. Armed with extensive surveillance capabilities, the Chinese authorities are openly intimidating individuals and foreign entities operating in China, Voice Against Autocracy (VAA) reported. The actions align with Beijing's efforts to assimilate local minorities and suppress minority languages, similar to what has been observed in Xinjiang and Tibet. China's legal system is known for its significant population of political and religious prisoners, VAA reported. Even minor infractions or actions acceptable in democratic countries are met with severe punishments and restrictions on freedom. The shifting redlines defined by the Chinese Communist Party make it difficult for individuals to anticipate what actions may be deemed illegal, VAA reported. Safeguard Defenders and Human Rights Watch have expressed concerns about the increasing use of exit bans and tight controls on passport applications, particularly targeting Tibetans and Uyghurs. Detainees facing political prosecutions endure poor conditions, torture, and denial of medical treatment while in custody, VAA reported. Moreover, their families often suffer from eviction and harassment. Beijing's arbitrary actions call for greater attention of the global community towards the cases of targeted activists and religious believers. International support and attention will be crucial in holding China accountable for its human rights abuses and suppression of dissent. (ANI) The woman, identified as Guo Rui, alias Gegee, was nabbed by Bangkok Police on Friday, who flaunted her connections with police top brass and sought millions in bribes in order to get the charges dropped against a crime suspect, Bangkok Post reported. Guo allegedly lured Navaporn Phakiatsakul a Chinese woman with Thai citizenship, who had few criminal charges against her. Guo told her that she could have charges against her dropped for 33 million baht (9.5 Million USD), and she also took an initial amount of 14 million baht. As per Wassayos Ngamkham, Guo assured the crime suspect that she could get the charges against her dropped because she had connections with National Deputy Police Chief General Surachate Hakparn. Bangkok Police will also impose a travel ban on the Chinese journalist for exploiting her professional relationship with the police to demand a bribe from various suspects, Bangkok Post reported. She will be banned from leaving the country, while police further carried on the investigation to find more evidence, Bangkok Post reported. Police General Surachate on Sunday said Guo denied the charges and she was temporarily released on bail for 3.5 million baht, reported Wassayos. Bangkok Post is one of the leading English-language news media in Thailand. Police General Surachate said that he knew the journalist on a professional basis and for work-related reasons. Police said that Chinese Journalist Guo was employed by the police as a coordinator due to her fluency in the Chinese language and overseas connections. The Police have also banned Guo from leaving the country and her passport has been seized, Bangkok Post reported. She had requested to fly to Hong Kong for a meeting, but her request was denied due to her status as a suspect, said Pol Gen Surachate. Police have discussed the situation with the Chinese Embassy and diplomats, he added. Pol Gen Surachate said he will take legal action against Guo for using his name to demand bribes, adding that any officers under his command found to have committed such offences will not escape prosecution either, Bangkok Post reported. Investigators have strong evidence against Guo, including witnesses to the offences. Police had also been tracking her for some time, he said. Pol Gen Surachate urged anyone who had bribed Guo to come forward and file a complaint. Police will also take legal action against the Chinese Journalist Guo's husband who was found involved in the case, Bangkok Post reported. Guo, although a Chinese national, had legally obtained Thai citizenship after studying and working in Thailand for most of her life. (ANI) In a bid to enhance connectivity in the North Eastern States of India, the Ministry of External Affairs, EU Delegation to India and the Asian Confluence are jointly organizing the India-EU Connectivity Conference in Meghalaya on June 1 and 2. The objective of the conference is to explore possibilities of boosting connectivity investments in India's North Eastern States and with India's neighbours; Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh. The Conference is an outcome of the India-EU Connectivity partnership launched during the India-EU Leaders' Meeting in May 2021. The Conference would focus on connectivity through three pillars namely: Digital, Energy and Transport with an aim to identify concrete projects for joint implementation. This was also recognised as a key deliverable in the recently concluded Ministerial Meeting of the India - EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC). The Conference would be inaugurated by Conrad Kongkal Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya and Rajkumar Ranjan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs. Senior officials of the Government of India, EU Commission, Government(s) of the North Eastern States of India, Government(s) of Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh and stakeholders from the private sector are expected to participate and provide their insights and views on the subject. The Northeast region of India is located east of Bangladesh and north of Myanmar and is connected to the rest of India by a narrow strip of land between Bangladesh and Bhutan. Northeast India faces several challenges, including infrastructure development, lack of connectivity, and insurgency issues in some areas. The region also experiences frequent floods and landslides, which can cause significant damage to infrastructure and disrupt daily life. However, the government is working to address these issues and promote development in the region. Meanwhile, the economic ties between India and the EU are being strengthened based on new trade and tech plans amid scepticism over China, reported Daily Mirror Online (DMO). The European Union (EU) is seeking deeper ties with New Delhi as Europe-China ties are strained by sanctions spat over accusations of rights abuses in Xinjiang that left progress on a 2020 investment agreement frozen. After the first meeting of the EU-India Trade and Technology Council in Brussels, EU officials spoke of "very promising beginnings." "Moreover, the EU wants to "de-risk" China ties as many countries are moving away from China's dominance in the sector due to supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical pressures. However, Brussels does not want to cut off ties with Beijing altogether, but it does want to diversify its supply chains. That's where India comes in. A large part of semiconductor manufacturing involves design and intellectual labour. India has an advantage here, as a large portion of semiconductor design engineers globally are of either India or Indian origin; chipmaking firms such as Intel and NVIDIA have large facilities in India that are already flush with Indian talent working on design problems. Also, New Delhi-Beijing relations are also complicated by a border dispute. Europe-China ties, meanwhile, have long been strained by sanctions spat over accusations of rights abuses in Xinjiang that left progress on a 2020 investment agreement frozen, reported DMO. European Commission Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager pointed to Indian plans to boost semiconductor production as an example of how EU-India ties could "give muscle" to Brussels' idea of "de-risking." She cited quantum computing and "technologies developing beyond 5G" as areas where India could offer "trusted vendors" for Europe in the future. "We've seen that many companies which are leaving China also prefer to go to Southeast Asian countries. So, India is here in competition with other Asian players," Berlin-based analyst Christian Wagner, a researcher with the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, told DW. "But when we look at the geostrategic landscape," he said, "I think India has certainly a much bigger profile," said Wagner. He said that India at the moment is in a very favourable position, because both the Western countries, the United States, the European Union, as well as Russia, as well as China, are wooing India and trying to intensify their relations, reported DW. (ANI) Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) will open its first-ever overseas campus in Tanzania's Zanzibar in October 2023 with a batch of 50 undergraduate students and 20 master's students, The new IIT campus will be set up in Zanzibar under the name IIT Madras at Zanzibar. Zanzibar will be one of three campuses outside of India, with the others located in Abu Dhabi and Kuala Lumpur. Each of these campuses is designed to serve its respective region, with Zanzibar serving the greater East African region, The Citizen reported. The Citizen is a Tanzanian Daily reporting on political and social issues of Tanzania and the African region. For the first year, the institution will offer data science and artificial intelligence courses, however, the fee structure remains undecided at this point. One may find Zanzibar to be an interesting choice, given the presence of cities like Dar es Salaam just a stone's throw away. Zanzibar's historical significance as a trade hub or its current attempt to reposition itself as an international business centre may have influenced the decision. Zanzibar offers both the tranquillity of a relatively small town, allowing students to maintain focus on their studies, and access to the rich Swahili culture, which would enrich their experiences, The Citizen reported. President of Zanzibar, Hussein Mwinyi is looking forward to this project and has made it possible for IIT to begin operations this year by giving the necessary premises. He has guaranteed IIT the autonomy it needs to ensure that the quality is maintained. Though, there are a few concerns about how IIT would maintain its standards in Tanzania. For example, in India, IIT is popular among the people and students prepare for many years to get the opportunity to study at one of the institutions. That ensures that IIT gets quality candidates, The Citizen reported. Not having a similar reputation in the Tanzanian region, there is a danger that the institution will not get the students it expects. Additionally, without the people and infrastructure that give it its institutional identity, the question of the overall experience becomes a big question mark. But the IIT has come up with a three-fold solution for these issues. Firstly, by operating under the Madras umbrella, IIT proposes to provide Zanzibar with the same international recognition that IIT Madras enjoys, practically applying the hundreds of MoUs that Madras has signed with businesses and institutions worldwide to Zanzibar too. This suggests that students from Zanzibar will eventually have access to the same benefits enjoyed by students in Madras, including opportunities for internships at the world's top companies, The Citizen reported. Secondly, admission will follow a three-way process that includes an entrance exam, a one-month preparation program, and an individual interview. In India, IITs rely heavily on entrance exams to recruit candidates as the only practical approach given that 1.5 million sit for those exams every year. Thirdly, to provide a comparable student experience, without the people, infrastructures, and systems available in India, the professors admit that that is a challenge that must be approached gradually, giving examples of the humble beginnings of other IITs in India. The initial instructors for Zanzibar will be from India, but the long-term objective is to train a cadre of IIT-trained local instructors to carry the mantle. To that end, India has made 50 scholarships available to Tanzanian students beginning this year to attend Master's and PhD programs at various IITs in India. A permanent campus for IIT in Zanzibar will then be built, with completion anticipated within the next three to five years, The Citizen reported. The establishment of IIT in Tanzania marks a significant step in strengthening the ties between India and Africa. It reflects India's growing interest in the African continent and its commitment to promoting education and human resource development in Africa. IITs are known for their research and innovation, and the establishment of IIT in Tanzania will encourage research and innovation in the African continent, which will help drive economic growth and development. (ANI) This is Pushpa Kamal Dahal's first bilateral visit abroad as Nepal Prime Minister after assuming office in December 2022. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation The Nepal Prime Minister will also call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar during his visit. In addition to the official engagements, he will also visit Ujjain and Indore as part of his visit A Ministry of External Affairs release said earlier that the visit continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries in furtherance of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. The bilateral relations between India and Nepal have significantly strengthened in the last few years in all areas of cooperation. This visit demonstrates the importance that both sides place on accelerating the bilateral partnership between the two nations, the release said. (ANI) The Khaama Press News Agency is an online news service for Afghans. According to the provincial police office, six people were killed, and nine others were injured, including children and women, after a Mazda vehicle flipped and jumped into the valley on Wednesday morning in the Alasay district of Kapisa province. According to the police, the cause of the traffic incident was reckless driving and the narrow width of the road in the area. The injured people were taken to the hospital while the authorities were sent to investigate the cause of the incident, according to Khaama Press. There have been increased traffic incidents in Afghanistan due to several factors such as careless driving, backed-up traffic, poorly built roads, a lack of the rule of law, and poorly maintained vehicles. According to the World Health Organization, 6,033 fatalities from traffic accidents are expected to occur in Afghanistan in 2020, or 2.6 per cent of all fatalities. As a result, the nation is ranked 76 globally regarding accidents, according to Khaama Press. (ANI) Musk supports steady Sino-US ties in meeting with FM 08:50, May 31, 2023 By ZHANG YUNBI ( Chinadaily.com.cn State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang meets with Tesla CEO Elon Musk in Beijing on May 30, 2023. [Photo/mfa.gov.cn] State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang drew an analogy between driving a vehicle and Sino-US ties during his meeting on Tuesday with Elon Musk, visiting CEO of new energy vehicle giant Tesla. For successful development of China-US ties, Qin told Musk in Beijing that the wheel should be steered properly to follow the path of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation outlined by President Xi Jinping. The driver should step on the brake pedal to avoid the risks of dangerous driving and use the accelerator in order to advance mutually beneficial collaboration, he said. Noting that China's growth offers opportunities to the whole world, Qin said that a "sound, steady and constructive China-US relationship" will not only benefit the two countries but also advance the interests of nations across the globe. Musk said the Chinese people are intelligent and diligent, and the development of China has been natural. He said the interests of the US and China are highly intertwined, and his company doesn't support economic decoupling or moves that disrupt production and supply chains. Tesla is willing to further expand its business in China and share the opportunities brought by China's development, he added. The annual trade between the world's top two economies was close to $760 billion last year, according to data provided by China's General Administration of Customs and the Foreign Ministry. Observers noted that Musk is visiting China at a time when Sino-US bilateral ties have suffered political tensions, and senior diplomatic, economic and trade officials have made contact or held meetings. Last week, Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao met with US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and US Trade Representative Katherine Tai. Diao Daming, an associate professor at the School of International Studies, Renmin University of China, said these positive developments clearly help send a signal of stability to the world. "China has always believed that Sino-US cooperation is mutually beneficial, and cooperation is the only right choice," he added. During a regular news briefing on Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said: "China always welcomes business figures from all countries, including Mr Musk, to visit China for a deeper understanding of the country and mutually beneficial cooperation." China is firmly committed to advancing its high-level opening-up and fostering a market-oriented, law-based and internationalized business environment, she said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Thank you for supporting our journalism. This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune. Norkys Amaro, a recent arrival from Venezuela, sits with her son, Yokender, 14, on the floor where they are staying with other migrants on May 22, 2023, at the Chicago Police Department's 7th District station in the Englewood neighborhood. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune) Chicago aldermen voted to spend $51 million on migrant care through June as Mayor Brandon Johnson works to get a handle on the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The City Councils spending authorization comes at a critical time for Chicago government, which is struggling to care for thousands of migrants amid pushback from residents amid financial woes exacerbated by lowball funding appropriations from state government and little tangible support from President Joe Bidens administration. Advertisement The passage of the appropriation followed an unsuccessful attempt last week, when three conservative aldermen blocked the vote during Johnsons first City Council meeting. But after being reintroduced during Wednesdays meeting, the appropriation passed 34-13. Council members Gregory Mitchell, Michelle Harris, Anthony Beale, Marty Quinn, Raymond Lopez, David Moore, Derrick Curtis, Monique Scott, Emma Mitts, Nicholas Sposato, Anthony Napolitano, Brendan Reilly and Jim Gardiner voted no. Advertisement On the council floor, a spirited debate among aldermen unfolded after a contentious public comment period saw Chicago police escort disruptive speakers who opposed funding migrant services. Underscoring the tension between the migrants emergency needs and the struggling neighborhoods hurt by decades of disinvestment, Moore, 17th, opened the discussion by urging a no vote. His majority-Black ward has suffered with dilapidated public facilities such as field houses and seniors becoming homeless because of long public housing waitlists, he said, arguing that his community needs an oxygen mask first. The soul of Chicago is somewhat on trial today regarding this ordinance. People keep saying theres enough to go around, Moore said, quoting a common theme from Johnsons inaugural address and mayoral campaign. I heard that over and over. So lets pass an ordinance where we see enough. But 22nd Ward Ald. Michael Rodriguez, who represents Little Village, pushed back. As he asserted Chicago is a strong city, one man in the public gallery shot back, No, youre weak! We have enough. We will live in abundance as a city, Rodriguez said. We will not live in scarcity. I will choose not to live in scarcity. We do have enough. Mayor, you said it on the campaign trail. Ald. Jeanette Taylor, 20th, delivered the discussions most passionate remarks on the floor as she wiped her eyes with a tissue and spoke of the historic abuse Black people have faced. When the hell are yall going to help us? When? Taylor said. To some of yall, we still aint s---. Ald. Jeanette Taylor, 20th, wipes a tear as City Council members applaud after her impassioned speech in favor of funding for migrant aid, May 31, 2023, at Chicago City Hall. (E. Jason Wambsgans/Chicago Tribune) But she also implored those Black residents who are against helping migrants to stop thinking in us-versus-them terms, asking, Who the hell is them? Its us. Thats the s--- that got us here from the get-go. Advertisement After stating that hurt people shouldnt hurt other people, Taylor received a standing ovation from the council body, though one woman from the gallery yelled that she was a sellout and traitor. Multiple progressive aldermen also committed to reparations for Black Chicagoans, which was a demand from some of the public speakers who opposed helping the migrants in their South Side neighborhoods. But the public speakers grew increasingly restless, interrupting council members and shouting anti-migrant statements. Ald. Andre Vasquez, 40th, likened the push-and-pull between those Black speakers opposed to migrant funding and those who supported more aid to a crabs in a barrel situation. He stressed that without more revenue for both homelessness and migrants, the discord in Chicago will continue, citing both a proposed increase in the real estate transfer tax and in Chicagos portion of Local Government Distribution Fund, which channels state income taxes to municipalities. Advertisement If we dont do that, we are going to be here month after month, fighting over our values even though we share the same values, Vasquez said. Ald. Ray Lopez, 15th, argues in opposition to funding for migrant aid in the City Council chambers, May 31, 2023. (E. Jason Wambsgans/Chicago Tribune) Several aldermen said the fingers should be pointed at the federal and state government, expressing frustration that Chicago was left to fend for itself. Others castigated Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican who first started busing migrants to Chicago in August while arguing border towns had run out of room and resources to shelter migrants and that sanctuary cities should accept them. Napolitano, 41st, disagreed with Abbotts detractors and said their sentiments were hypocritical to the spirit of Chicago as a welcoming city, established under an ordinance from 1985 that was strengthened in the past decade. The problem here is, in the frustration, we all want to yell and point fingers at Texas, Napolitano said. Thats not right. We declared ourselves a sanctuary city. Advertisement The latest infusion of funds was seen as a stopgap measure to keep shelters open amid a migrant crisis has seen about 10,000 new arrivals in Chicago in the past nine months, mostly from Central and South America. The money will be drawn from previous budget surpluses and is only expected to maintain the citys housing, food and other operations for about another month. To make the situation more pressing, the city has been struggling to find money from the state and federal governments. Gov. J.B. Pritzkers administration has said the state has spent a total of $260 million on shelter and care for asylum-seekers, but the harsh living conditions continue in Chicago. Asked his long-term plans for sustainable funding for both asylum-seekers and the citys homeless, Johnson reiterated his support for the Bring Chicago Home ordinance, but suggested the city will need to find solutions in the upcoming 2024 budget. The mayor typically introduces the budget in the fall. Despite the tenor of the debate, Johnson said We were still able to have a democratic process, where voices were heard. And the challenge that I inherited from the previous administration, were not going to duck from it, were not going to dodge it, were going to take it head-on. ... Were going to collaborate, work together and figure out how we can actually solve the critical problems that people expect us to solve. What youre seeing is a collaborative effort to decompress police stations. Were having community meetings to stand up facilities we do have access to. Were working hard. Its been two weeks, Im pretty confident well get to the third week, he said. He insisted the city is big enough to take care of the residents who have been here and make room for those who wish to call Chicago home. More than 700 migrants are currently sleeping on the floors of Chicago police station lobbies, thousands more in makeshift shelters, and divisions continue to emerge among communities and local officials over how to handle their needs without neglecting longtime Chicagoans. Advertisement The new state budget deal awards Chicago less migrant aid than Johnsons administration had hoped for: $42.5 million, though lawmakers can designate more during the fall veto session. That budget, a total $50.6 billion package, currently awaits Pritzkers signature. Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot too saw her requests for more aid fall short. She declared the humanitarian crisis as a state of emergency during her last days in office, while city officials warned of running out of money within weeks. City officials said this month they first requested $53.5 million from the state and only got $20 million. When they asked a second time, for $61.7 million, the state granted just $10 million. On the federal side, the citys $66.7 million request to FEMA was met with a $4.3 million award. Meanwhile on the county government side, costs are also expected to rise. Through the end of April, Cook County Health provided care to roughly 6,000 asylum-seekers since September 2022, including health screenings and primary care at a Northwest Side clinic, and when needed, specialty or inpatient services at Stroger Hospital. Overall, hospital officials said asylum-seekers had made 28,600 visits to CCH in that span. Between September and January, the state had covered the cost of nursing staff, while CCH covered all other operational costs, including physicians, facility, supplies and pharmaceuticals, CCH spokeswoman Alexandra Normington told the Tribune in April. The cost was roughly $1.7 million per month at its peak, but dipped to roughly $1.1 million as fewer asylum-seekers arrived. Advertisement But the state stopped picking up the nursing cost about $1.5 million at the start of February. As demand began to rise again, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle went to Springfield early in May to ask leaders to turn the spigot back on, but she said last week she has no idea whats going to happen with her latest request to the governor for $8 million through the end of the fiscal year in June, and then $20 million for the next year. Also Wednesday, aldermen voted unanimously in favor of allowing outdoor dining provisions first launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to continue. Under the changes, applicants will be able to apply for two different permits: one to offer dining in the curb lane in front of their business where cars normally park on the street and another where three or more restaurants or taverns can band together and apply to close down a block from regular vehicular traffic and put tables and chairs in the street. Applications would be filed with the citys Department of Transportation, and if granted, restaurants could offer seating outdoors between May and the end of October. After application, other city departments and neighboring businesses could be solicited for their input before a permit is granted, and the local alderman will also be asked for a recommendation on the application. Fees for the permit shall be determined by the transportation commissioner. While Johnsons council reorganization plan sailed through the aldermen l earlier this month, the budgets for the new committee structure and a beefed up vice mayor position for Ald. Walter Burnett, 27th, faced a temporary roadblock Wednesday. Moore and Beale both critics of the reorganization plan used a parliamentary maneuver to delay a vote until the next City Council meeting. But after meeting privately with Johnson behind council chambers, Beale announced at the end of the meeting theyd withdraw their opposition. The reorganization plan uses roughly $790,000 in unspent funds from a special council menu program Lightfoot included as an olive branch in her 2023 budget. ayin@chicagotribune.com gpratt@chicagotribune.com Advertisement aquig@chicagotribune.com Taliban's Ministry of Higher Education has through a letter warned university lecturers to avoid criticizing the Taliban regime in their research work, sources said, Khaama Press reported. The Khaama Press News Agency is an online news service for Afghanistan, In the letter, it is stressed that university lecturers should have a good command of both national languages (Farsi and Pashto) and utilize national terminologies rather than using terms that are alien to Afghan people and culture. The letter contains seven decrees about research and translation, sent by Hamidullah Muzamal, the head of the research and translation department of the Taliban's Ministry of Higher Education on Saturday, according to Khaama Press. Muzamal said that university lecturers should defend the ruling regime and refrain from criticizing or speaking against Taliban officials to avoid possible problems. It is also stated that lecturers and researchers should avoid using alien terms in their write-ups, adding that the country has common expressions for these words. Banning the use of the term "Danishgah" which has a Farsi root, which translates university in English has repeatedly sparked widespread reactions in universities and media in Afghanistan, as per Khaama Press. The Taliban officials while describing the term "Danishgah" as foreign, have banned using the term. The former government officials and the Taliban did not have sensitivity towards non-Persian words such as Urdu and English. The Taliban previously removed Farsi words from official plaques of universities in different parts of the country. Some critics of the Taliban administration describe the move as a clear anti-Farsi language campaign that will further widen the gap among the people of Afghanistan who are ethnically and linguistically very diverse. (ANI) Palestinian Armed Forces have blamed Israel for the deaths of five of its men in an explosion in eastern Lebanon, close to the Syrian border on Wednesday, Al Jazeera reported. Israel is allegedly to blame for the deaths of five of its comrades in an explosion in eastern Lebanon, according to the armed wing of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) - General Command (PFLP-GC). A strike by Israel on Wednesday reportedly damaged positions in the Lebanese town of Qusaya, according to PFLP-GC official Anwar Raja. He claimed that 10 persons had been hurt, with two of them in critical condition, according to Al Jazeera. However, unnamed Israeli sources have claimed to news organisations that Israel was not responsible for the attack. Along with having military bases in both Lebanon and Syria, the group PFLP-GC has outposts along their shared border. Israel has been the target of its strikes in the past. The left-leaning organisation the PFLP-GC has supported the Syrian government since it split off from the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine in 1968. In the Syrian conflict, its forces have battled alongside government forces. The organisation, which has bases in Syria and Lebanon, is present at Burj al-Barajneh in Beirut as well as the Yarmouk refugee camp in Damascus. The organisation gained notoriety for significant acts against Israel, including the hijacking of an El Al plane in 1968 and the machine-gunning of a different airliner at Zurich airport in 1969, according to Al Jazeera. All 47 people on board a Swissair flight from Zurich to Tel Aviv were killed in 1970 when a bomb was detonated. (ANI) Over 100 social media accounts have been blocked in Pakistan for promoting sectarianism, anti-state, terrorist, and anti-Islam activities, at the request of the capital police, Dawn reported. Dawn is a Pakistani English-language newspaper. Police officers said that, so far, 106 social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube have been blocked through the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). The step was taken in response to the findings of the Provisional of Violent Extremism Unit (PVE) of the capital police's Counterterrorism Department (CTD), police officers said, according to Dawn. "The PVE is monitoring the individual's social media accounts involved in different illegal activities, including sectarianism, anti-state, terrorism, and anti-Islam." The officers said, so far, the unit had recommended blocking 203 accounts, 164 Twitter, 38 Facebook, and one YouTube, of which 106 have been blocked by now. In this regard, separate requests were sent by the Counterterrorism Department to the FIA for the closure of each account with the details, along with screenshots of illegal activities, as per Dawn. The Express Tribune recently reported that the Pakistan Senate was informed that the government is working on legislation to compel social media platforms to register themselves in Pakistan. During Question Hour, Pakistan Peoples Party Senator Rubina Khalid said that the government appeared to be helpless on the issue of blasphemous and derogatory content on the internet. She added that the matter had been taken up several times during the meetings of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and it was the responsibility of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to take action against such content, reported The Express Tribune. Minister of State for Law and Justice Shahadat Awan replied that online hate speech against any religion would be blocked immediately. (ANI) Pakistan's State Minister for Finance and Revenue Aisha Ghaus Pasha on Wednesday slammed the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for "intervening" in Pakistan's internal matters, Geo News reported. Geo News is a Pakistani news channel. The state minister said: "Pakistan's conduct is in line with the law", terming IMF Mission Chief for Pakistan Nathan Porter's statement regarding the political situation in Pakistan "extraordinary". While the IMF does not comment on domestic politics, Porter had said that the Fund hopes "a peaceful way forward is found in line with the Constitution and the rule of law." The State Minister while hoping that both sides will reach a staff-level agreement before the announcement of the federal budget, expected to be unveiled on June 9, for the fiscal year 2023-24, said that the delay is neither good for Pakistan nor the Fund. Pasha confirmed reports that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif contacted IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, adding that the premier assured the fund's chief that Pakistan will meet all its obligations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday contacted Georgieva, requesting her to help Pakistan revive the stalled USD 6.5 billion facility. PM Shehbaz, according to the sources, requested her to intervene in order to complete the pending ninth review, which would unlock USD 1.1 billion in financing for the cash-strapped nation. The coalition government has been negotiating with the Washington-based lender to revive its bailout programme since November, with the financing gap among the biggest roadblocks. There's about USD 2.7 billion left to disburse from the USD 6.5 billion programme that's scheduled to expire next month, according to Geo News. The minister, in response to a question regarding Pakistan's plan of action in case it fails to convince the fund before the expiry of the programme, on June 30, said: "The Ministry of Finance is not sitting with its eyes closed, there is always a Plan B but our priority is to revive the IMF programme." (ANI) As Nepal Prime Minister Dahal is set to meet his Indian counterpart PM Modi on Thursday (tomorrow), the engagement between the two Prime Ministers will be an opportunity to discuss the entire gamut of the multifaceted relationship between India and Nepal. During the visit, both sides will build on the successes achieved by India and Nepal in the bilateral partnership during previous high-level visits [Prime Minister Deuba to New Delhi (April 2022) and Prime Minister Modi to Lumbini (May 2022).] During his visit, Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka 'Prachanda' will call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar. Kickstarting his four days India visit, Nepal PM arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday. Upon arrival, he received a warm welcome from Union Minister Meenakashi Lekhi. "PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship," the official spokesperson of MEA, Arindam Bagchi tweeted. In addition to the official engagements, he will also visit Ujjain and Indore as part of his visit. Prachanda, who assumed office in December last year, is in India from May 31-June 3 at the invitation of his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Prachanda will begin his schedule on Thursday (tomorrow) by laying a wreath at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi at 10.30 am. A Ministry of External Affairs release said earlier that the visit continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries in furtherance of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. Previously, he visited India twice in 2008 and 2016 as Prime Minister of Nepal. The bilateral relations between India and Nepal have significantly strengthened in the last few years in all areas of cooperation. (ANI) Calling Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda's four-day India trip a "goodwill visit", Nepal ambassador Shankar P Sharma on Wednesday said the visit "will bring Nepal and India's relations to a good height." "This is basically the goodwill visit. I think we have done so many activities in the last one year between Nepal and India. Some of them will be initiated this time and some of them will be inaugurated, some of them will be groundbreaking and some of them will be agreement. So, there are so many things on the plate. We are hoping that this visit will bring Nepal and India's relations to a good height," Sharma told ANI. On being asked whether any talks on border issues will be discussed during Prachanda's India visit, Sharma said, "You ask with the PM, I think we still have to see that." Kickstarting his four days India visit, Nepal PM arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday. Upon arrival, he received a warm welcome from Union Minister Meenakashi Lekhi. "PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship," the official spokesperson of MEA, Arindam Bagchi tweeted. In addition to the official engagements, Nepal PM will also visit Ujjain and Indore as part of his visit. Prachanda, who took office last December, is visiting India from May 31 to June 3 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Today in Delhi, the Nepal Prime Minister met with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. The meeting between Dahal and PM Modi on Thursday would provide an opportunity to address the full range of the relationship between India and Nepal. A Ministry of External Affairs release said earlier that the visit continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries in furtherance of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. (ANI) Japan's parliament on Wednesday passed a bill that allows nuclear reactors in the country to be operated beyond the current limit of 60 years, Japan-based Kyodo News reported. The move has been taken in order to help cut carbon emissions and ensure an adequate national energy supply despite lingering concerns over the safety of aging reactors. According to Kyodo News, the law on power sources for green transformation and decarbonisation amends five laws associated with energy at once, including the electricity business law, under which the life span of reactors will be regulated. As per some lawmakers and citizens, the bill was hastily passed without adequate deliberation, and public concerns about the safety of aging reactors were not properly addressed. Japan's Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura told reporters that the government will continue holding nationwide in-person or online briefing sessions to deepen public understanding of the law. In Japan, fossil fuel-fired plants generate roughly 70 per cent of the nation's total electricity. The 2011, Fukushima nuclear crisis led to the closure of all nuclear reactors, with most reactors remaining offline as they must meet stricter safety standards introduced after the disaster in order to restart, according to Kyodo News. Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida last summer said that the government will take the necessary steps to push ahead with the restart of more units, instructing the government to look into how the country can maximize its nuclear energy facilities most effectively. The tougher safety standards under the reactor regulation law limit the service period of a nuclear reactor to 40 years, in principle, and up to 60 years if proper safety upgrades are made. But under the new rules, nuclear reactors may be granted additional operating years in effect as their offline periods will not be counted against their total service time provided the periods are due to reasons beyond a utility's control, such as safety reviews needed for a restart and court-ordered suspensions. The industry minister will give approval for extending the life of nuclear reactors on a case-by-case basis, Kyodo News reported. (ANI) Both sides discussed ways on how to maintain a maritime environment that is secure and supportive of inclusive growth for both nations. "3rd India-Vietnam Maritime Security Dialogue held today in New Delhi. Senior officials from the respective Ministries and Services concerned with maritime affairs participated in the Dialogue," the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Arindam Bagchi tweeted Wednesday. The two sides discussed ways to sustain a secure maritime environment conducive to inclusive growth. "Also reviewed maritime cooperation initiatives and avenues of reinforcing international and regional mechanisms for comprehensive maritime security," Bagchi added. Notably, the second India-Vietnam Maritime Security Dialogue was held in April 2021 in virtual format following the first round held in Hanoi in March 2019. "India and Vietnam held their second maritime security dialogue in a virtual format on 6 April 2021. The consultations involved exchanges on developments in the domain of maritime security, regional cooperation activities and opportunities for cooperation between the two countries," the MEA said in a statement. Both India and Vietnam have always shared warm and cordial ties. Recently at G7 Summit in Hiroshima in Japan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart Pham Minh Chinh. Both leaders discussed various aspects of the partnership of both nations including in defence. "Prime Ministers @narendramodi and Pham Minh Chinh held talks in Hiroshima. They discussed different aspects of India-Vietnam friendship, particularly in areas like energy, technology, commerce and defence," the Prime Minister's Office tweeted. (ANI) Nepal's Foreign Minister Narayan Prasad Saud on Wednesday said that his country has very good relations with India and mentioned that his Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal is visiting the country for the fourth time. He said Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal is visiting India for the fourth time. "Our prime minister is visiting India for the fourth time. This is the first visit after being Prime Minister. We have very good relations with India. We are having discussions on various fields, trade, transit and other fields as well. We will also discuss hydroelectricity projects. All issues are going to be discussed," Saud said on Wednesday. Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal alias Prachanda who assumed office in December last year is in India from May 31-June 3 at the invitation of his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Nepal PM Prachanda in the national capital. Nepal PM is set to meet his Indian counterpart PM Modi on Thursday (tomorrow) and the engagement between the two Prime Ministers will be an opportunity to discuss the entire gamut of the multifaceted relationship between India and Nepal. During the visit, both sides will build on the successes achieved by India and Nepal in the bilateral partnership during previous high-level visits [Prime Minister Deuba to New Delhi (April 2022) and Prime Minister Modi to Lumbini (May 2022).] During his visit, Prachanda will call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The Nepal Prime Minister upon his arrival to India received a warm welcome from Union Minister Meenakashi Lekhi. "PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship," MEA Official Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted. In addition to the official engagements, he will also visit Ujjain and Indore as part of his visit. (ANI) After summing up his visit to Brunei, Muraleedharan reached Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. "Delighted to arrive in the iconic city of Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. Looking forward to my engagements with the Malaysian senior dignitaries, dynamic and vibrant Indian diaspora and leaders of Indian community in Malaysia," tweeted Muraleedharan. During his visit to Malaysia, the MoS will hold a private meeting with Malaysia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Datuk Mohamad bin Alamin. The Malaysian Minister of Human Resources, V Sivakumar, will also call on the MOS. The MoS will also take part in the inauguration of the first-ever Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) Day-Malaysia (Aprawasi Diwas) and launch the PIO International Festival, which is to be held from June 2-4. He will address the Indian community and diaspora at the 'Pravasiya Bharatiya Utsav'. With 2.75 million PIOs, Malaysia is home to the second-largest PIO population in the world. The MOS will also deliver a key-note address at an International Conference titled 'India-ASEAN Dynamics in the Emerging Indo-Pacific Order: Pathways to Cooperation beyond the Third Decade', organised by the High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur in collaboration with the Centre for ASEAN Regionalism University Malaya (CARUM) and Asia Europe Institute (AEI), the Ministry of External Affairs said in a release. He will also interact with leaders of Indian community associations and leading business associations in India and Malaysia. Following the installation of a new Malaysian government in November 2022, this is the first ministerial visit from India to the country. (ANI) Thank you for supporting our journalism. This article is available exclusively for our subscribers, who help fund our work at the Chicago Tribune. Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday kicked off a statewide tour to promote the $50.6 billion budget passed by lawmakers days earlier, with a focus on increased higher education funding during a stop at the University of Illinois at Springfield campus. Pritzker said the budget allows for nearly every student from a working-class family to attend community college for free and it sets aside an additional $100 million for Monetary Award Program grant funding for college scholarships. Advertisement This is a program that already makes it possible for nearly 42% of UIS student body to get a college education and with this new investment, more aid will go to more students than ever before, Pritzker said. Getting a college or university degree shouldnt strap you with debt for the rest of your life. Pritzker has yet to sign the spending plan, which was passed by the state House early Saturday in a party-line vote after being approved by the Senate two days earlier. Advertisement The legislature was scheduled to adjourn a week earlier, but differences among Democrats over spending priorities, including how to deal with a state-funded health care program for noncitizens whose costs have ballooned, sent the spring session into overtime. Gov J.B. Pritzker talks with reporters on April 27, 2023, in Springfield. (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune) Pritzker has said the final budget hewed closely to the proposal he introduced in February, when he focused on education. On Wednesday, he touted investments that include about $2.8 billion for university and community college infrastructure. He said over $686 million in capital funding was going to the University of Illinois system, including to UIS. He thanked three Springfield-area lawmakers two of whom voted against the budget. State Sen. Doris Turner was one of three Democrats in her chamber to vote no on the spending plan. Freshman Republican state Rep. Michael Coffey sided with his party in opposition. Even sometimes when we disagree on things, no one is disagreeable, and we come to find that there are an awful lot of things that we can get done for this great capital city of Springfield, Pritzker said. Speaking to reporters at the event, Coffey said he was against the 5.5% pay raises for rank-and-file lawmakers that the Democratic supermajority put in the budget, which takes effect July 1 once it is signed by Pritzker. He also noted the perennial dissatisfaction among Republicans with how the spending plan was put together. I think a lot of the people in the House felt that they werent included in some of the negotiations, he said. Other parts of the budget previously highlighted by the governors office include an increase of $85 million to support homelessness prevention, affordable housing and other programs related to those efforts. The upcoming budget would also include an additional $200 million to the states underfunded pension plans on top of the $9.8 billion required under state law. The more than 3,400-page budget includes a $20 million investment in a new program to expand grocery access to urban neighborhoods and rural towns, and $30 million for a fund that distributes money to police departments for body cameras and squad car dashboard camera systems. Another $15 million would be also set aside for grants associated with a youth summer jobs program, geared toward young people in Chicago and other urban areas. There would be a roughly $112 million increase in the share of state income tax revenue distributed to local governments, partially satisfying a request from some suburban mayors, as well as new Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. Advertisement In response to another request from Johnson, the budget would provide $42.5 million to aid migrants arriving from the countrys southern border. But that money would be available to counties and towns statewide rather than only Chicago. The upcoming budget would set aside $2.1 billion for the Illinois Department of Corrections, an increase of $221 million from the current year. While Democratic Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias office requested $200 million to upgrade its information technology infrastructure, the budget allocates $25 million to start that process. jgorner@chicagotribune.com 1 killed, 13 injured in Russian attacks against Ukraine over past day In the last 24 hours, Russian attacks were reported in Ukraine's nine oblasts in the country's east, north, and south. Those are Donetsk, Sumy, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, Kherson, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk and Mykolaiv oblasts. According to regional authorities, one civilian was killed, and 13 more were injured, including a child. Russian attacks killed one person in Donetsk Oblast's Chasiv Yar and injured six in other regional settlements, according to Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko. Thirteen homes, two high-rises, farm buildings, an education facility, a correctional facility, a library, and two medical facilities were damaged in Donetsk Oblast, said Kyrylenko. Russian forces hit a transport company near Pavlohrad in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on the morning of May 31, slightly injuring an eight-year-old boy, reported Governor Serhii Lysak. A two-story residential building, a private residence, and garages were reportedly damaged in the attack. Russian troops struck Kherson Oblast in Ukraine's south 49 times, firing 219 rounds from various weapons, the regional administration wrote. The attacks reportedly wounded five civilians in the region. Russia targeted three districts in Kharkiv Oblast over the past day, wounding a 72-year-old man in Vovchansk, said Oleh Syniehubov, the oblast governor. The attacks damaged an apartment and an educational institution, he added. In Mykolaiv Oblast, Russian May 30 shelling of Ochakiv on the Black Sea coast damaged homes and outbuildings, according to Governor Vitalii Kim. No casualties were reported. The Russian military attacked 17 settlements in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Oblast, damaging 16 houses and infrastructure facilities, the regional administration said on Facebook. There were no casualties. On May 30, Russian forces targeted six communities in northeastern Sumy Oblast, the regional administration wrote. Six garages caught fire, and one five-story building, two two-story buildings, three houses, and a power line were reportedly damaged. A 30-year-old former firefighters mental illness symptoms have subsided enough for him to face murder charges for killing his mother. David Joseph Lowes beliefs of being targeted by a group of racists and being radioactive have faded after more than three months of treatment at Eastern State Hospital, according to a report from a Washington state psychologist. Evaluator Jessica R. Hart said after about four months of treatment for schizophrenia, Lowe can understand the court proceedings and help his attorney. Lowe is charged in Benton County Superior Court with the premeditated first-degree murder, attempted premeditated first-degree murder and first-degree burglary. He is accused of breaking into his mothers Cosmic Lane home in July 2022 to confront her and her husband. At the time, he allegedly thought his mother, Bethany Lowe, and her longtime boyfriend, had harmed his young daughter, who was actually unharmed and living with her mother. After breaking in, hes accused of killing his mom and stabbing his stepfather. The case has been on hold since Aug. 1, when a judge ordered a competency evaluation. Initially, he told mental health evaluators that he was being used to test pharmaceutical drugs, that he heard voices and that an imaginary group called Dancing Bear was harassing him. Lowe, who is black, later explained that the group was tied to the Ku Klux Klan and Benton County police. Prescriptions were issued but Lowe stopped taking them, leading to a January hearing when a judge required him to take the anti-psychotic medications. Drug abuse history Before the murder, Lowe had a history of getting treatment for a methamphetamine addiction, but received little help for his problems with schizophrenia, according to Eastern State Hospital reports. He started using meth on a daily basis when he was in his 20s, according to report. His said his first attempts to get treatment for his drug addiction came in 2018 when he signed into the James Oldham Treatment Center outside Yakima. After he told them about being molested, it was determined that he needed mental health treatment along with drug treatment. Crisis responders there evaluated whether he should be involuntarily committed, but he wasnt detained at the time. After leaving the Oldham center, he went to the New Horizon Care Center in Spokane. He was discharged nine days later because he left the facility without permission to buy meth before trying to return to the center. According to the report, he also participated in drug treatment in 2019 at American Behavioral Health Systems. He started having problems again in July 2022. On July 5, he locked himself in a gas station bathroom for eight hours and exhibited bizarre behavior, including paying with toilet water and making comments about ghosts taking over his body, said the report. Three days later on July 8, he went to Wenatchee Parkside Stabilization, an evaluation and treatment center. After he was admitted, he reported hearing his daughter and parents communicating with him. At one point, he said he heard his daughter screaming and believed she was suffering. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia and prescribed medication. At one point, he refused to take the medication because he felt clearer without it. Richland attack Its not clear when he left the Wenatchee facility but he was back in the Tri-Cities on July 26. Police reports obtained by the Tri-City Herald show West Richland police officers and medics attempted to take him to a local hospital for help after some erratic behavior outside another gas station. He ran away from the hospital, showing up less than six hours later at his moms house three miles away in Richland. Just before 5 a.m. on July 27, Bethany Lowe and her longtime partner Andy Davis, 45, awoke to the sounds of commotion. She believed it was likely her son, and told Davis she would go talk to him, according to court documents. Both ended up stabbed. The couples two youngest children, ages 12 and 9, also were home but were not hurt. During his first court appearance, he appeared disoriented and confused, saying that was not quite sure what happened. Mental health treatment Harts report said Lowes mental health has improved over the course of his stay at Eastern State Hospital. During his initial admission, he jumped from topic to topic including talking about being robbed, a home that was broken into and nuclear waste. In other early interviews he said he believed someone was conspiring against him, and he couldnt understand how they could diagnose a mental illness without a brain scan. While he tried to get taken off of the anti-psychotic medication, he did continue taking it. By late March and early April 2023, his thought processes appeared to be clearer, according to the report. While Lowe said he would have the occasional hallucination of hearing family and friends. The voices had decreased after starting his medications. In sum, at the time of the current evaluation, Mr. Lowe presented as generally psychiatrically stabilized, Hart said. It is my opinion that in his current mental state, he currently possesses sufficient capacities to understand the nature of the proceedings against him and to assist counsel in his defense. 10 Things in Tech: Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos are ripped, tech workers work less than 4 hours per day, and tech's Texas real-estate invasion It's the last day of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, friends. I'm Diamond Naga Siu, and today, I'm thinking about Sweden. A 30-year-old consultant said moving there from California helped cure her burnout. And she told my colleague Hannah Towey how she rarely works overtime, gets six weeks of paid vacation, and got a free master's degree. Sounds pretty sweet to me. Plus, I'm pretty fascinated by this Swedish carmaker's plan to become the Ikea of EVs. Luvly's model for urban environments only costs around $11,000, and you can get a 360 look at it here. Now, let's dive into today's tech. If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Insider's app here. An animated illustration of a robot with a giant eye made from the Chat gpt logo. The robot is holding 4 books with science fiction themed covers, and the eye is animated to look at each book. Robyn Phelps/Insider 1. The 50 books used to train ChatGPT. OpenAI, the company that created the chatbot, won't share the books it used to train ChatGPT. But a group of researchers discovered a method of quizzing the chatbot to figure out which books it has read. Training material for ChatGPT is important, as it shapes how the chatbot answers questions. Reading helps mold people's worldviews. And similarly, ChatGPT's reading list gives people a sense of its perspective. Their findings revealed a variety of classics (think "Moby Dick" and "The Scarlet Letter"), a few popular classics (like Harry Potter and Sherlock Holmes), and a staggering amount of sci-fi and fantasy (including "A Game of Thrones" and "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy"). My colleague Adam writes that ChatGPT's emphasis on sci-fi means it's a nerd, and he examines how this impacts its frame of reference. Dive into the chatbot's perspective and get the full list here. In other news: Harold "Skip" Connett, 66, harvests potatoes with his dog Sabine on his organic farm, Green Gate Farms, in Bastrop, Tx., on Monday, May 22, 2023. Connett's 32-acre, certified organic farm abuts the Colorado River. Matthew Busch for The Washington Post via Getty Images 2. Welcome to the "Wild West" of tech real estate. Texas is turning into a playground for tech developers. Thanks to its lack of regulations, tech companies have turned rural areas into industrial hubs. Enter the lawless land here. 3. Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos are ripped. Over the weekend, Zuck revealed his bulking methods. Check out how the gym-rat celebrated Memorial Day. Plus, Bezos also went from scrawny to brawny. Follow his fitness journey here. 4. Your next job probably depends on AI. ChatGPT and other AI tools have the potential to upend most industries as we know it. So regardless of the role or industry, AI skills will likely determine whether you get hired. Peek into the future job hunt here. 5. Pool-rental app Swimply is making neighbors angry. It lets homeowners rent out their private pools to people. But partying guests are a "tremendous nuisance" to neighbors. Swim over for the story here. 6. Many tech workers are only productive for four hours per day. In an anonymous poll, nearly 45% of tech workers said they spent four hours (or less) on "focused work." Only around 25% said they worked eight or more hours per day. More on the poll here. 7. NASA released stunning new images of space. They show the universe in dazzling detail: two of them are galaxies, one is a nebula, and another is a star cluster. Check them out. 8. Quality issues pushed this YouTuber to swap his Tesla for an electric Mercedes. Austin Evans sold his family's Model Y after he got fed up with some quality concerns. Evans shared how the Mercedes felt like a private jet. The full story. Odds and ends: The cockpit of a US Air Force RC-135 aircraft on May 26, 2023. The cockpit of a US Air Force RC-135 aircraft on May 26, 2023.Screengrab/Courtesy video via US Indo-Pacific Command 9. A video shows a US spy plane rattling after a Chinese fighter jet cuts it off. The Chinese aircraft flew right in front of the US plane's nose. This forced it to fly through rough turbulence. Such behavior could cause a major incident, Pentagon officials warned. Watch the full video. 10. Meet the average US millennial. Born between 1981 and 1996, millennials are better off financially than they were five years ago. The average US millennial is a parent, homeowner, and worth around $128,000 (but hoping for student-debt relief). Get their full profile here. What we're watching today: Curated by Diamond Naga Siu in San Diego. (Feedback or tips? Email dsiu@insider.com or tweet @diamondnagasiu) Edited by Alistair Barr (tweet @alistairmbarr) in San Francisco and Nathan Rennolds (tweet @ncrennolds) in London. Read the original article on Business Insider 102 years after the Tulsa Race Massacre, here's where efforts to reconcile and revitalize stand More than 100 years after what some consider one of the worst incidents of racial violence in the country's history, Tulsa is making progress towards the revitalization of Black Wall Street and reckoning with the destruction of one of the most thriving communities in its heyday. In the aftermath of 2020 protests surrounding the murder of George Floyd and the 100-year centennial of the Tulsa Race Massacre in 2021, heightened awareness led to more coverage on a foundational moment in U.S history that many knew little about. In an effort to revitalize a once-thriving business district known as Black Wall Street, which was decimated in the massacre, the city of Tulsa has implemented a master plan that ensures the social and economic benefits of redevelopment are experienced by Black Tulsans, by descendants of the Race Massacre, and by future generations and their heirs. Smoke rises north of Greenwood Avenue from Hartford Avenue, in Tulsa, Okla. on June 1, 1921. Read about the history of Tulsa, the massacre and Black Wall Street. When was the 1921 race massacre? What events led up to it? In the early 1900s, the 40 blocks to the north of downtown Tulsa boasted 10,000 residents, hundreds of businesses, medical facilities an airport and more. On May 31 and June 1, 1921, a white mob descended on Greenwood the Black section of Tulsa burning, looting and destroying more than 1,000 homes. The true death toll of the massacre may never be known, with the search for unmarked graves continuing more than a century later, but most historians who have studied the event estimate the death toll to be between 75 and 300 people. Black residents walk with arms raised, surrounded by armed white men during the Tulsa Race Massacre in 1921. Todd Pendleton of The Oklahoman, part of USA TODAY Network, illustrated the the Tulsa Race Massacre as part of the site's coverage 100 years after the event. From The Oklahoman Dodging bullets and coming home to nothing left: An illustrated history of the Tulsa Race Massacre. By 1921, an affluent class of African American entrepreneurs was growing in Greenwood. Many white citizens were beginning to resent their success According to a 2005 report by the National Parks Service, on May 30, 1921, a black teenager named Dick Rowland was accused of assaulting a white female, Sarah Page, in the elevator of the Drexel Building. Fearing accusations, Rowland fled to his home in Greenwood. He was arrested later that afternoon and taken to jail, but was never charged with a crime, and His alleged accuser was never heard from again. An article published in the Tulsa Tribune on the afternoon of May 31, included racially charged language that also implied Assault. There were also rumors about an editorial that suggested Rowland should be lynched. Just before sunset, a group of white men gathered outside the courthouse where the teen was being held. They demanded Rowland be released to them, only to be turned away. At 9 P.M. a group of 25 armed Black men, many who were WWI veterans, left Greenwood and traveled to the courthouse. They offered assistance to authorities to thwart the lynching of Rowland. By 9:30 p.m., numbers of white men and Black men began to grow outside the courthouse. As tensions escalated, fighting began. Heavily outnumbered, the Black defenders retreated to the railyard and eventually Greenwood. After numerous skirmishes, the fighting stopped. At 5 a.m., a siren reportedly began to sound. Immediately a machine gun started to fire from Standpipe Hill in Greenwood. Simultaneously large numbers or white citizens began an assault on Greenwood. Many of the men deputized to stop the resistance, were involved in the fighting just hours before. A group of white men called the Home Guard began breaking into African American homes and businesses. Looting and violence erupted. George Monroe, was five-years old at the time of the massacre and remembers the attacks on Greenwood. House by house, block by block, fire was set to Greenwood. Several survivors recall machine guns and attack by airplanes, shooting and dropping incendiary devices. Eldoris McCondichie remembers fleeing the area and seeking shelter in a chicken coop. Black residents and homeowners continued to fight back. Resisters or anyone discovered with a firearm was shot. Occupants were forced out to be marched to holding areas. The attack on Black Wall Street and the Greenwood neighborhood left nine thousand people homeless. In the end, All that was left were the outlines of once prosperous businesses, and the charred foundations where homes once stood. White people had looted the structures and stolen everything from cars to clothes. News reports shortly after the massacre, put the damage totals at two and a half million dollars. After the riots, the American Red Cross provided tents for residents to live in, but residents, Businesses and churches did not receive any other assistance after the massacre. Many left Tulsa and never returned. When did Black Americans begin to settle in Tulsa? When was Black Wall Street created? According to the Tulsa Preservation Commission, former slaves who gained tribal membership through marriage, and slaves owned by tribal members, first arrived during the removal of the Five Tribes in the 1830s from traditional Native American homelands in the Southeast. Then, the oil boom of the early 20th century boosted migration. By 1908, the commercial area known as Greenwood was established. Was Black Wall Street rebuilt? Is there an effort to revitalize the historic district? The Greenwood community began rebuilding just days after the destruction. Almost a decade later, the district had more businesses than prior to the massacre still, the area saw a decline in the mid-century caused by predatory lending, public disinvestment, urban renewal programs, and the redistribution of spending and wealth. In the 1960s and 1970s, all but a block of the area was destroyed for construction of highways. Some of the buildings still standing along Greenwood Avenue, looking north from Archer Avenue, are shown in this 1938 photo. The area historically referred to as Black Wall Street was rebuilt in the five years following the 1921 massacre. Mt. Zion Baptist Church in the Greenwood district of Tulsa after it was set afire by a white mob in 1921. As of 2021, only nine buildings rebuilt in the four years immediately after the massacre remained in Greenwood, according to the Oklahoman. Tulsa begins community talks for possible action beyond massacre apology City councilors started a series of conversations with stakeholders looking to inform about possible action beyond the council's formal apology in 2021 for its role in the massacre, Public Radio Tulsa reported. Attendees heard about inequities in areas such as transportation and possible reparations packages for Black Tulsans, according to the outlet. Land transfer to new History Center The Greenwood Rising Black Wall Street History Center an 11,000 square foot immersive exhibition space born out of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre Centennial Commission Center announced on May 8 that it now owns the land it occupies. The land donation from The Hille Foundation to the center represents one nail removed from the coffin of hopes and dreams Black people still hold onto today, said Margo Taylor, a senior docent at Greenwood Rising. This land transfer is truly significant almost 102 years after the Tulsa Race Massacre, Taylor said. Hopefully, this may signal the start of a New Mecca of freedom and restitution. Investigators make progress identifying victims of the massacre In April, a forensic anthropologist said they are getting closer to identifying victims of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre after city officials gathered DNA from people who believe they may be a relative or descendant of a massacre victim and others with a historical connection to Tulsa. Of the 22 remains that had DNA extraction, investigators have tracked the surnames associated with six people four male and two female, according to the City of Tulsa. With the collected DNA, investigators tracked 19 surnames associated with at least seven states: North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Alabama. The six bodies could were not confirmed as massacre victims, but officials believe their discovery could inform where to search the cemetery to recover more victims. More coverage from the USA TODAY Network 'Bringing people together with love,' OKC marks centennial of freedom fighter Clara Luper Children deserve to be taught: Teachers in 22 cities protest laws restricting racism lessons in schools President Joe Biden to mark Tulsa Race Massacre centennial by meeting survivors Jesse Jackson says the McCurtain County sheriff should resign. No one is certain he will. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tulsa race massacre: No longer a riot, now comes the reckoning 11-Year-Old Boy Shot By Police Has 1 Question For The Officer Aderrien Murry, 11, tells CNN about his experience getting shot by a police officer in Indianola, Mississippi. Aderrien Murry, 11, tells CNN about his experience getting shot by a police officer in Indianola, Mississippi. An 11-year-old Mississippi boy who was shot last week by a police officer responding to his 911 call has one question for his assailant: Why did you do it? In an interview with CNN on Tuesday, Aderrien Murry recounted the horrifying ordeal that began May 20 when the child called 911 at his mothers request after the father of his younger sister came to their home in Indianola. Sgt. Greg Capers, the officer responding to the call, showed up at the house with his firearm already drawn and ordered all the occupants outside. The child was on his way outside when he was shot in the chest. I just tried to follow the police commands, but I guess that didnt work, he said. Murry said Capers ordered everybody to come out with their hands up, and then I remember I heard the big bang. Then I just remember holding my chest. Now, Murry is recovering from a collapsed lung, lacerated liver and fractured ribs from the shooting, and the family has filed a lawsuit against the Indianola Police Department and Capers, who has been suspended with pay, according to the boys attorney, Carlos Moore. The boy told CNN he wants the officer terminated from his job. Murry still imagines what could have happened. Sometimes, I can see myself laying inside the coffin, he said. Those are my thoughts at night, my only ones. Sometimes I think people are watching me. But my main thought is me dead, inside the coffin. Capers hasnt commented on the incident, but Murry says theres one question hed like to ask the officer. Why did you do it? I could have lost my life, all because of you, he said. Watch the more from the CNN interview below: Related... 14-year-old found dead in river after he and friend fall from boat, Texas cops say The body of a 14-year-old set to start high school in the fall was pulled out of a Texas river following a Memorial Day boating accident, cops say. The Jefferson County Sheriffs Office said Conner Curtice fell out of the boat on the Neches River on Monday, May 29. Conner and the 18-year-old operator of the boat were trying to fix a leak in the vessel, and the two went overboard when the boat jerked, according to KBMT. The operator was wearing a kill switch. He came back up and got back into the boat, Capt. Ryan Hall with Texas Parks & Wildlife told KDFW. He saw the 14-year-old face down on top of the water, but he was too far away to get to him quickly. The 14-year-old slipped underwater. Crews searched for Conner until Tuesday, May 30, until his body was recovered around 6 p.m. The sheriffs office said search and rescue teams used sonar technology to find Conner. Our familys hearts are broken Conners aunt, Cynthia Hernandez Hunter, told The Port Arthur News. One good thing about our family is how close were are as a family. We support each other and set out to get things done. Conner was entering his freshman year at Port Neches-Groves High School, according to a GoFundMe. The Port Neches-Groves Independent School District said it is hurting for the loss of one of our own and for his family. 21-year-old college athlete drowns while swimming in lake with group, Iowa cops say 80-year-old dies after being thrown from boat in the Ozarks, Missouri officials say Teens body found after he vanished while rafting with friends, Washington cops say 15 Outrageous Things I'm Truly Sick Of Hearing As An Armenian American Hi! I'm Haley, and I'm a 28-year-old Armenian American. Throughout my life, I've heard a lot of things about being Armenian that range from ridiculous to downright horrible. That's me, very happy, in Armenia! Haley Zovickian / BuzzFeed So in an effort to raise awareness, here are 15 outrageous things I've heard about Armenia (AKA 15 things you should absolutely not say about Armenia): (Keep in mind that I can only speak for myself and not the rest of the Armenian community.) 1. "Is Armenia even a country? Is it on the map?" Yes, it is. Modern-day Armenia is a small country in Southwest Asia, though historic Armenia was much larger and included most of what's now known as Eastern Turkey. There aren't many Armenians in Turkey anymore because of the Armenian genocide, but that is our indigenous home and is where my family is from. Peterhermesfurian / Getty Images/iStockphoto 2. "What language do Armenians speak?" They speak Armenian, which is its own language and has multiple dialects. 3. "Armenian like the Kardashians?" Yes, Armenian like Kim Kardashian. But Armenians will be the first to tell you not to base your understanding of Armenians off of Kim. There's much more to us than that. (PS: Obviously, she is top-tier for GIFs...so please allow me to indulge in this post.) Karen Minasyan / Getty Images 4. "Why do you still care about the Armenian genocide? It's been over 100 years. Why can't you just move on?" Kim Kardashian looking side to side as if incredulous E! There is no moving on when our genocide is unacknowledged and ongoing. Azerbaijan, Turkey's self-proclaimed brother, is currently instigating an ethnic cleansing of indigenous Armenians from our homes in Artsakh. Denialism has only paved the way for more violence against us. Did you know the US didn't recognize the Armenian genocide until 2021? 5. "There was no genocide."/"It was a civil war." Kim Kardashian saying, "So shady." E! Any reputable historian will tell you that this is factually incorrect. 6. "It was Armenians' fault the genocide happened." Again...not the way this works. 7. "Hopefully, we will wipe Armenia off the map." Community members attending the march on January 28, 2023 found fliers posted on several poles that included calls to "wipe Armenia OFF the MAP" and celebrating "Erasing Armenia off the World Map." These were reported by organizers and allies of AYF-WUS. pic.twitter.com/Pb9xXvVxae Armenian-American Action Network (@ArmenianAmAct) January 31, 2023 Twitter: @ArmenianAmAct This flyer was circulating around Los Angeles a month ago, just in time for Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day. 8. "Why do you want to go back to Armenia/occupied Armenia so badly?" Because it's our indigenous home. Wouldn't you want to go back to yours? 9. "You're so exotic." Kim in bed with covers up to her chin E! In the words of one of my favorite Southwest Asian North African (SWANA) Instagram personalities and wonderful Armenian ally @burqasandbeer, we are not exotic. We are exhausted. TL;DR: This is not the compliment you think it is. 10. "Where are you from? No, where are you actually from?" I'm likely in the minority here, but I don't mind this question too much, since I see it as an opportunity to explain to others who Armenians are. That said, it's really important to be respectful with this question and understand that many people won't appreciate the assumption that they're not "from here." 11. "You're not Armenian because you're not 100% Armenian/don't speak Armenian fluently." Kim Kardashian rolling her eyes E! This is untrue, and honestly, it's no one's business policing how Armenian I or anyone else is. Speaking Armenian fluently is a privilege, especially since the Western Armenian dialect is literally on UNESCO's endangered languages list. 12. "Armenians are not natives, they are foreigners." Despite the denialism and historical revisionism that Armenians have faced, the fact remains that we are indigenous to our land, and despite having been pushed out of it by genocide, we will never be foreigners. 13. "You're Armenian? I studied abroad/vacationed in Turkey!" Kim Kardashian widening her eyes E! Lucky you. We know it's beautiful because we're literally native to the region. Plus, a lot of the amazing architecture and ceramics you see there were actually made by Armenians. But many Armenians won't go to Turkey or spend money there because of Turkey's denial of the genocide and their ongoing violence against us and the other indigenous groups of the region. Needless to say, if someone tells you they're Armenian, this should probably not be your IMMEDIATE response. 14. "Why are you so angry?" Armenians have the right to be angry while Turkey continues to deny the Armenian genocide and threatens and supports further violence against us alongside Azerbaijan. It's a matter of our human rights to safety and dignity. 15. "I've heard about what's happening with Armenia and Azerbaijan. I hope they can figure it out peacefully." This is otherwise known as "both sides-ism." There's no such thing as "both sides figuring it out peacefully" when one side is repeatedly attacking the other and kidnapping civilians to torture and murder them. This take actually means you are enabling the oppressor. Thanks for reading along! 'Everybody Loves Raymond' stars Patricia Heaton and Ray Romano pose with their Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series (George Pimentel/WireImage via Getty Images) The first in a series of columns looking at key Emmy moments from 20 years ago. The Primetime Emmy Awards are always evolving from who gets nominated to who wins, and even what the categories are called. And as the 75th ceremony approaches on Sept. 18, we wondered just what were the Emmys like 20 years ago? Turns out, it was both a simpler time and a time of change: Comedy series nominees were still broadcast networks and HBO; the variety series category was called "outstanding variety, music or comedy series"; and reality TV finally got a seat at the table. Oh, and Bill Cosby was presented with the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award. Yes, times were different, for sure. So what else was going on at the 2003 awards? COMEDY SERIES Hip and edgy: "Everybody Loves Raymond" (CBS) executive producer Phil Rosenthal spoke for the series, which won its first comedy series award (the second would come in 2005). Rosenthal quipped that once an executive had told him he should aim for "hip and edgy" content, not a "traditional old-fashioned sitcom." "Raymond" did well this year Brad Garrett and Doris Roberts won supporting awards, and the show earned a writing award as well. "Raymond" beat out "Curb Your Enthusiasm" (HBO), which has been nominated in the category 10 times since 2002 but has never won. The other shows in the category, "Friends" (NBC), "Sex and the City" (HBO) and "Will & Grace" (NBC), each had six series nominations over the course of their runs but won only one time each in 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. "Will & Grace" did take home the lead actress award for Debra Messing that night, though. VARIETY, MUSIC OR COMEDY SERIES By any other name: In 2003, the shows that fit in this category were almost exclusively late-night talk series. But this was the first year "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart" (Comedy Central) earned a series win, kicking off a string that ran until 2011; after that, it won regularly (even as the category name changed) in 2012, 2015 and 2017. (Host/executive producer Stewart departed in 2015.) Reflecting on his show's Iraq War coverage, Stewart quipped onstage, "It was such a great war for us." "The Daily Show" triumphed over "Late Night With Conan O'Brien" (NBC), which picked up its first category nomination for the show but never won the series Emmy; "The Late Show With David Letterman" (CBS), which won six times between 1994 and 2002; "Saturday Night Live" (NBC), which garnered eight series wins in the changing category over the years; and "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" (NBC), which despite 10 nominations won the series award only in 1995. REALITY COMPETITION PROGRAM Pretty amazing: Back in 2001, "Survivor" (CBS) won a nonfiction program (special class) award, but until 2003 no Emmy category had been established to reflect the genre called reality. With the new category, "The Amazing Race" (CBS) picked up the prize, becoming the only show that would win until 2010, when "Top Chef" (Bravo) broke the streak. "Race" also won in 2011, 2012 and 2014. "Race" swept ahead of "American Idol: The Search for a Superstar" (Fox), which was nominated every year from the category's inception until 2011 and has still never won a series Emmy; "Survivor" (CBS), which was nominated from 2003-06 but not since; and two head-scratching additions: a Bob Hope tribute special called "100 Years of Hope and Humor" (NBC) and "AFI's 100 Years 100 Passions: America's Greatest Love Stories" (CBS), shows whose content seem to test both the "reality" and "competition" labels. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. 3 young children die in hot cars across the U.S. Three young children died in recent days after they were found unattended in vehicles in Washington state, Texas and Florida, authorities said. The fatalities boosted the number of hot-car deaths for children this year to six, double the number at this time last year, according to Jan Null, a California meteorologist who tracks the incidents. Police in Puyallup, Washington, a city just southeast of Tacoma, were investigating the death of a 1-year-old who was left in a vehicle parked at a hospital while the child's foster mother worked, they said Tuesday. The woman discovered the child in the car about 5 p.m. last Wednesday after roughly nine hours, Puyallup Police Capt. Don Bourbon said. She immediately took the child to the hospital, but the child died, he said. NBC affiliate KING of Seattle reported the vehicle was parked at MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup. Police have suggested it was a mistake, with the foster mother distracted enough that morning to forget the child was with her, Bourbon told KING. Its horrifying not only for the family but anyone whos involved in a childs death, Bourbon told NBC News. National Weather Service meteorologist Samantha Borth said high temperatures in the region were in the low 70s last Wednesday. Researchers concluded years ago that even a 70-degree day could result in deadly triple-digit temperatures inside a car as it acts like a greenhouse. In Houston, where temperatures reached the high 80s over Memorial Day weekend, police said they were investigating the death of a 4-year-old boy who was found in an unlocked parked car with a 2-year-old girl about 4:30 p.m. Friday, according to a statement. Both were rushed to a hospital, where the 4-year-old was pronounced dead, police said. The 2-year-old was expected to recover, it said. An adult found the children, who had been playing outside their home, in the vehicle with at least one of the children reported to be unconscious, police said. In Palm Bay, a city on Florida's Atlantic coast, an 11-month-old was discovered unresponsive early Sunday afternoon after having spent three hours unsupervised in a parked vehicle, city police said in a statement Tuesday. The parents had been attending church services, the police department said. The incident was under investigation, it said. "This is an unfortunate incident," Chief Mario Augello said in a statement from the department, "and our condolences and prayers go out to the family." High temperatures in the area Sunday were at or near 80, according to National Weather Service data. The U.S. Climate Prediction Center has said there's a greater likelihood, compared to equal chances, that warmer-than-normal temperatures will be experienced in much of the country through the end of August. Those areas include the locations of the late-May deaths: the Pacific Northwest, Texas and Florida. Hot-car deaths by heatstroke are the leading cause of non-crash vehicle deaths for children under 14, according to the U.S. Transportation Department. Children who die in hot cars usually do so because rapidly rising temperatures cause heatstroke. A vehicles temperature can spike 40 degrees in an hour, according to a Stanford study co-authored by Null, who tracks hot-car deaths on his website NoHeatStroke.org. Likewise, childrens core temperatures rise fast three to five times faster than adults with heatstroke settling in with a body temperature of 104 and death at 107, according to a fact sheet distributed by the Transportation Department. The organization Kids and Car Safety calls this time of year, from late May to summer's end, "hot car death season" and says the transition to a new season can bring households new routines that can distract and disorient parents. "A change in the normal daily routine and fatigue are the most common contributing factors for a child being unknowingly left behind in a vehicle," the organization said in a statement Tuesday. The Transportation Department says the number of child hot car deaths went down in recent years as a result of the pandemic's impact on the number of people working from home. In 2020 and 2021, the annual numbers for child deaths in hot cars 25 and 23, respectively were each less than half the figure for 2019: 53. In total, 33 such deaths were reported last year, according to NoHeatStrokeDeath.org. The numbers are not encouraging, because at this time last year, three deaths had been reported, Null said. It's a sign the nation is returning to post-pandemic normalcy, he said. The best preventive measure, experts say, is to develop routines that always take children into account, even if they're out of school, overseas or at a grandparent's house. Null recommends placing a teddy bear on the front passenger seat when children are in the back. And he said drivers should place items such as briefcases and bag lunches in the back seat so they'll have to look there when they arrive at work. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com 30 Hispanic businesses in SW Florida to close for A Day Without Immigrants protest At least 30 Hispanic-owned businesses across Southwest Florida plan to temporarily close their doors on Thursday in solidarity with the nationwide A Day Without Immigrants protest. The protest has been called in response to Senate Bill 1718, signed recently by Gov. Ron DeSantis, requiring companies with more than 24 employees to use the federal E-Verify system for new hires starting July 1. The DeSantis administration calls SB 1718 the strongest anti-illegal immigration legislation in the country to combat the dangerous effects of illegal immigration caused by the federal governments reckless border policies. However, the new legislation has sparked fear and concern in the immigrant community, even among those who are in the United States legally, or who are already working for exempt companies: those with 24 or fewer employers. Protests are planned in Immokalee, Pierson, Jacksonville, Vero Beach, Tampa, Orlando and elsewhere in the United States. Local businesses including Mexican restaurants and Latino groceries plan to close in Bradenton, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Arcadia, Zolfo Springs and Ellenton. The nonprofit Latino Rebels website reported Tuesday that organizers are asking workers across the country to stay home on Thursday if they cant attend a protest. Local businesses, which are dependent on immigrant labor, ranging from construction to agriculture and hospitality, are taking the concerns seriously with reports that some apprehensive workers are packing up to leave Florida. C.J. Czaia, a local personal injury attorney with a long track record of advocating for immigration reform, said SB 1718 could work to galvanize the growing Hispanic community in the Bradenton-Sarasota area. This could be the wake-up call to get people involved, Czaia said Wednesday. DeSantiss signature on SB 1718 sparked an immediate protest in downtown Bradenton on May 12. Leaders of local groups gathered to speak out against Floridas new immigration law, which they said was discriminatory and would have an adverse affect on the areas supply of available labor. This weeks A Day Without Immigrants (Un Dia Sin Inmigrantes) protest is not the nations first. In 2017, thousands of companies across the United States took part in a protest of President Donald Trumps plans to seal the border with Mexico to halt the flow of immigrants. During the 2017 protest, about 11% of Manatee Countys public school students stayed home. During that protest, 5,107 of the districts more than 48,000 students were marked absent, with the largest number being at the elementary school level. A team of researchers excavating mass burial sites in England have detected the DNA of the bacteria that caused the plague in human skeletal remains and they are the oldest known cases of the disease in Great Britain. The cases of Yersinia pestis date back 4,000 years, according to the paper published Tuesday in the journal Nature Communications. The bacterial DNA is thousands of years more ancient than the oldest strain uncovered prior to this latest finding. That strain, identified in 2018 at a burial site known as Edix Hill in Cambridgeshire, was from 1,500 years ago, according to lead study author Pooja Swali, doctoral student in the Skoglund Laboratory at the Francis Crick Institute in London. The samples of the plague-causing bacteria were found at two different mass burial sites: one in southwest England in the county of Somerset and the other in the northwestern county of Cumbria, near the border of England and Scotland. The distance between the sites suggested the disease was widespread during the late Neolithic period and the Bronze Age, Swali said. The evidence of widespread transmission across such a vast spatial area in just a few centuries is very interesting and seems to be one aspect of the rapid movement of people, technologies and ideas during this period, said Dr. Benjamin Roberts, an associate professor of archaeology who researches later European prehistory at Durham University in the United Kingdom. He was not involved in the study. How do researchers locate 4,000-year-old bacteria? The team took samples from the skeletal remains of 34 individuals across the two sites, according to the study. Researchers drilled into the teeth of these ancient people and extracted dental pulp, which can trap remnants of the DNA of infectious diseases. The ability to detect ancient pathogens from degraded samples, from thousands of years ago, is incredible, Swali said. These genomes can inform us of the spread and evolutionary changes of pathogens in the past, and hopefully help us understand which genes may be important in the spread of infectious diseases. What we learn about transmission Using genetic analysis, researchers determined that there were two distinct periods when the plague appeared in Britain: The disease emerged before or around 4,000 years ago and again about 1,500 years ago, said Dr. Lee Mordechai, a senior lecturer of history at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, who was not involved in the study. When it comes to the disease, there is a lot that scientists still dont know including how it spread, Swali said. The strain of Yersinia pestis found at the burial sites did not contain the gene that would enable it to spread through fleas, a trait possessed by the strain causing the pandemic known as the Black Death that later ravaged medieval Europe in the 14th century, she added. And science may never truly know the severity of the plague 4,000 years ago when it came to humans, Roberts said. Researchers cant tell whether the disease caused by the bacteria would have been mild or fatal, he added. And the individuals in the Somerset site appeared to have died from trauma not disease, according to the research. The temptation is always to theorise an apocalyptic Medieval Black Death scenario but we simply cant justify that with the evidence we have, Roberts said in an email. Ancient DNA in modern times The research does present lessons for today. The findings demonstrate the importance of scholars working together across disciplines, as archaeologists and paleogeneticists did in this work, Mordechai said. The report also shows that large-scale disease transmission dates back to prehistoric times, he added. More recent pandemics such as Covid, AIDS or the Spanish Flu are recent cases of a recurring phenomenon, Mordechai said in an email. And while there are historical records of plague outbreaks, ancient DNA could potentially give us a look even further back, Swali said. Future research will do more to understand how our genomes responded to such diseases in the past, and the evolutionary arms race with the pathogens themselves, which can help us to understand the impact of diseases in the present or in the future, she said in a statement. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Five juveniles were arrested Tuesday for allegedly taking part in a Friday attack by a crowd on three off-duty Marines in California, according to local police. A viral video taken of the San Clemente, California, pier appears to show one person out of a crowd of young people take a swing at one Marine, who then ran toward him, prompting a series of punches from the teens. Later footage apparently shows two of the Marines in the fetal position on the ground to protect themselves from blows. One of the Marines, Hunter Antonino, told CBS affiliate KCAL that the confrontation began when the Marines asked the teens to stop lighting fireworks. Three Marine infantrymen stabbed outside California bar Deputies from the Orange County Sheriffs Department were dispatched to the pier at 9:50 p.m. Friday, the department said in a news release Tuesday. When they arrived, they found two male Marines had been injured. First responders rendered medical aid, but the Marines declined to be taken to the hospital, according to the news release. As deputies investigated the incident, they learned that a third male Marine had been assaulted, the news release stated. On Tuesday, investigators from the sheriffs department arrested four male teens and one female teen they believed were involved, on charges of assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm, according to the release. Unconfirmed allegations that the Marines had been acting belligerently and inappropriately with the teenagers circulated on social media following news of the arrest. The investigation is ongoing, due to the nature of the incident and the large number of individuals involved, the sheriffs department stated in the release. The department said it wouldnt release more information about the suspects because they were juveniles. The department didnt respond by publication time to a Marine Corps Times request for comment. San Clemente is located in southern California, not far from Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, where I Marine Expeditionary Force is located. The Marine expeditionary force is aware and looking into the incident involving three of its Marines, the unit said in a statement to Marine Corps Times. I MEF is committed to supporting local authorities in this ongoing investigation, the statement read. No additional information will be made available at this time as this incident is under investigation. San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan in a Facebook post Wednesday praised the sheriffs department for the arrests, adding, Now we work with law enforcement, schools, and parents to ensure nothing like this happens again in our town. The San Clemente Pier, located south of Los Angeles, is pictured during the day. The San Clemente Pier, located south of Los Angeles, is pictured during the day. Five minors have been arrested following a mob beating of three off-duty Marines along a pier in Southern California over the weekend, authorities said. Four male juveniles and one female were taken into custody Tuesday on suspicion of felony assault with a deadly weapon, and they were booked into a juvenile hall, according to a statement from the Orange County sheriffs department. The arrests came after the three male Marines were pummeled along a pier in San Clemente at around 10 p.m. Friday night. Video taken at San Clemente Pier appears to show one of the Marines walking away from a large group of people when he gets assaulted from behind, department spokesperson Sgt. Mike Woodruff told HuffPost, adding that the man then turns around and pursues the suspect in the crowd. After the Marine charges into the throng of people, a brawl quickly breaks out, the footage shows. The mob is seen punching and stomping on two men as they lay on the ground while protectively covering their heads. An older man and woman then run in and help break up the fight. Hunter Antonino told KCAL News in Los Angeles that he and the two other Marines had been enjoying time away from nearby Camp Pendleton when 30 to 40 minors showed up at the beach and became disruptive. They were lighting off fireworks. They were being belligerent, he told the local outlet. So we went up to them and told them to stop, causing the crowd to follow the Marines to the pier where the attack occurred, he added. While five people had been taken into custody so far, media reports about additional arrests were incorrect as of Wednesday morning local time, according to Woodruff. He added, though, that an undetermined number of other suspects were being pursued as the investigation continues. This is considered an assault with a deadly weapon because of the amount of suspects we are investigating, Sgt. Frank Gonzalez of the Orange County sheriffs department told KCAL News. The weapons that were used were their feet while these victims were on the ground. 5 times Ron DeSantis took pointed jabs at Donald Trump while campaigning in Iowa this week When Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis took the stage in West Des Moines Tuesday night, he didnt mention his chief rival Donald Trump by name. But he took a few subtle swings in Trump's direction. Leadership is not about entertainment. It's not about building a brand, DeSantis said to a room filled with supporters, who laughed knowingly at the reference to former President Donald Trump. DeSantis told the crowd it would be important to elect a two-term president who could continue appointing conservative justices to the U.S. Supreme Court an acknowledgment that if Trump is elected, he will only be eligible to serve one more term. And DeSantis urged Iowa Republicans to reject a culture of losing, emphasizing his own victories in Florida and alluding to Trumps 2020 loss. But afterward, in a news conference with reporters, DeSantis let it rip against Trump, unleashing a wave of criticisms he has largely kept to himself until now. 2024 Iowa caucuses: Where and when are presidential candidates visiting Iowa? I am going to counterpunch, he promised. Im going to fight back on it. It underscores a fine line DeSantis is trying to walk as he focuses his speeches to caucusgoers on Democratic President Joe Biden while also showing he intends to take on Trump directly. Im going to focus my fire on Biden, DeSantis said. And I think he should do the same. He gives Biden a free pass. Im focusing on Biden. Heres a look at five times DeSantis criticized Trump Tuesday. More: Is Ron DeSantis ready for Iowa prime time? What to watch in first presidential campaign trip Ron DeSantis on COVID policy DeSantis came out swinging against remarks Trump recently made in a video message saying that even New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo did better than DeSantis in managing the COVID pandemic. First of all, thats not what he used to say, DeSantis told reporters. This is like, new. Six months ago, he would have never said that, right? He used to say how great Florida was. Hell, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship. Are you kidding me? Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a campaign event in Clive, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. He said the criticism is ridiculous and suggested the criticism is an indication that the former president would double down on his lockdowns from March of 2020. What Ive said about that is look, it was a difficult situation, DeSantis said. We didnt know a lot. And so, I think people could do things that they regret. I mean, Ive said there are things we did those first few weeks that I pivoted from. And if you could go back in time to do it again, you would never do what was done in this country starting with, I think, the fatal mistake of turning the country over to Fauci. Ron DeSantis on Disney DeSantis called Trumps criticism over his feud with Disney very bizarre and said he is standing for the children, no matter what. Ron DeSantis on staying true to America first principles DeSantis said Trump has compromised his America first principles on policies involving COVID, immigration and spending. I do think, unfortunately, hes decided to move left on some of these issues, he said. And I think its me thats just being true to kind of what we said we would do. Ron DeSantis on winning DeSantis said he would distinguish himself from Trump in Iowa by talking about his ability to win in a diverse state like Florida, which he called a microcosm of the country. It echoes a concern shared by many Iowa Republicans who worry whether Trump can appeal to enough people to defeat Joe Biden in a general election. Weve shown an ability to win and win big, he said. Thats just first and foremost. Because I think our voters are looking at this and they say, You know, yeah, we appreciate what he did, but we also recognize there are a lot of voters who just arent going to ever vote for him. We just have to accept that. Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a campaign event in Clive, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Ron DeSantis on the debt ceiling DeSantis has weighed in opposing the debt limit deal moving through Congress and criticized Trump for failing to take a stand. Yeah, I think he should come out, he said. I mean, are you leading from the front or are you waiting for polls to tell you what position to take? I led from the front on this. I reviewed the deal. I spoke with people I trusted, and I put out a statement saying where I stand on it. And I didnt need to put my finger in the wind. Thats not how I roll. Brianne Pfannenstiel is the chief politics reporter for the Register. Reach her at bpfann@dmreg.com or 515-284-8244. Follow her on Twitter at @brianneDMR. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Ron DeSantis sharply criticized Donald Trump in Iowa this week Gather around the table and make Sunday dinner the highlight of your week with these cozy, family-friendly meals. Whether youre in the mood for crowd-pleasing classics or seeking recipes outside your culinary comfort zone, theres bound to be an entree and side dishes that will delight the entire group. For some, weekends are a time for experimental cooking projects. If youre looking to roll up your sleeves and put in a little time and effort, theres certainly no shortage of next-level recipes, from this elevated lasagna to a traditional slow-simmered beef bourguignon. But if time isnt on your side, fear not. Even if Sundays are jam-packed with activities and chores, you can still put together a dinner thats filling and special think one-pot wonders, quick-cooking seafood and shortcut recipes that save on time, but dont sacrifice on flavor. Of course, no Sunday dinner is complete with side dishes to complement your choice of hearty mains. Depending on what youre serving or the time of year, you may want to indulge in decadent options like creamy mashed potatoes and buttery buttermilk biscuits or opt for lighter fare such as roasted carrots or a big crunchy insalata verde (the recipe comes from one of New York Citys hottest restaurants). No matter which Sunday dinner idea you choose, each recipe is designed to bring joy and comfort to your family gathering. These delicious dishes are guaranteed to create memories that linger long after your plates are empty. Southern-Style Mac and Cheese by Kardea Brown Featuring macaroni baked in a velvety cheddar cheese sauce, this custardy casserole is Southern comfort at its best. The mac and cheese gets its luscious texture from a blend of milk, heavy cream, cream cheese and sour cream. Pot Roast with Horseradish Cream by Elizabeth Heiskell Pot roast is delicious on its own, but even better when paired with a zippy horseradish cream. Most of the work happens in the slow cooker, which means you can spend Sunday relaxing and still have a hearty meal on the table in the evening plus leftovers for the next day. Skillet Lasagna by Lidia Bastianich Enjoy lasagna without the hassle. This skillet version offers all the flavors and textures of the Italian noodle casserole, but skips a few steps. No-boil noodles simmer in store-bought marinara with dollops of ricotta. Once theyre cooked through, pop the pan under the broiler to get the mozzarella and Grana Padano topping nice and bubbly. One-Pot Vegetarian Chili by Lauren Witonsky This one-pot recipe is a perfect balance of convenience and taste. Bursting with bell peppers, protein-packed beans and raisins to lend a hint of sweetness, the vegetarian chili is just as satisfying as beef-based versions. A medley of spices help deepen the chilis flavor as it simmers on the stove and it gets even better the next day. Overnight Mac and Cheese by Ina Garten Forget about fussing over a roux this creamy casserole comes together effortlessly. The combination of cavatappi pasta, velvety Gruyere, sharp cheddar and homemade breadcrumbs create a mac and cheese thats decadent, yet comforting. The best part? You can prepare it in advance and bake it right before dinner. Perfect Roast Chicken by Alex Hitz Prepare to impress with this roast chicken. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can achieve golden, crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. Once you get the technique down, this will become your go-to centerpiece for any occasion, from Sunday dinners to holiday parties. Butter-Basted Pork Chops by Gaby Dalkin These thick and juicy pork chops are seared on a cast-iron skillet and basted with a garlicky herb butter that keeps them wonderfully tender and moist. The simple, yet flavorful technique will elevate your Sunday supper. Scott Conant's Mom's Sausage and Peppers by Scott Conant Sausage and peppers are a classic Italian dish that chef Scott Conant grew up eating. His recipe calls for slowly cooking down the onions and peppers, allowing them to develop a rich, flavorful sauce. Serve with crusty garlic bread to sop it all up. Baked Cheese Tortellini with Sausage by Emily Connor Baked pasta becomes even more satisfying when you use cheese-filled tortellini as the base. The pasta, Italian sausage and garlic cook in marinara, then go into the oven with a ricotta-mozzarella-Parmesan topping until the sauce is bubbling and cheese is gooey. Traditional Neapolitan Pizza by Emanuele Liguori Pizza for dinner is always going to be a hit. This Neapolitan pizza is as traditional and simple as it gets, so be sure to use the best fior di latte cheese, tomato sauce and fresh basil that you can find. Skirt Steak with Red Chimichurri by Molly Baz Quick to cook, yet still full of flavor, skirt steak is a great option for busy weekends when you dont have a ton of time, but still want a fancy meal. To get a deep caramelized crust on the steak, make sure its patted dry and the pan is smoking hot. Serve with the sweet-and-spicy red chimichurri and a side of roasted veggies or a salad. Reverse-Seared Rib-Eye With Cacio e Pepe Smashed Potatoes by Elena Besser As its name suggests, reverse searing calls for cooking the steak in the oven first, then browning and basting it in a skillet. The technique breaks down the fat in fattier cuts like rib-eye so the meat is nice and buttery. Smashed cacio e pepe-inspired spuds add a unique twist to the classic meat-and-potatoes pairing. Shrimp Scampi with Bucatini by Drew Barrymore and Pilar Valdes Drew Barrymore aptly describes this classic Italian pasta as a pairing of lemony sunshine with glorious shrimp. The low-effort meal comes together in no time, but is elegant enough for a dinner party. Simply sear the shrimp with garlic, deglaze the pan with wine, then bring everything all together with some butter, lemon juice and pasta water. Cajun Surf and Turf with Fajita Roasted Vegetables by Kevin Curry Surf and turf is a marvelous meal that has something for everyone. Kevin Curry gives this pairing of steak and shrimp a Cajun twist with a coffee-infused spice rub that adds a literal buzz. To keep things low carb, theyre served on a bed of herb-roasted veggies. Sheet-Pan Chicken Fajitas by Jocelyn Delk Adams Spice up your Sunday with easy sheet pan chicken fajitas. Toss chicken tenderloins, peppers and onions in a homemade spice mix, then let the oven do the work. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this recipe is a convenient and delicious way to satisfy your Tex-Mex cravings. Martha Stewart's Perfect Roast Turkey by Martha Stewart Turkey isnt just for Thanksgiving. A beautifully roasted bird thats juicy and golden brown is impressive anytime of year. Martha Stewarts secret? Turn the pan every hour for even browning and a showstopping centerpiece. Baked Gnocchi Alla Vodka by Nina Elder Baked gnocchi alla vodka will excite and delight with its familiar flavors and unique pasta choice. Pillowy store-bought gnocchi not only pairs beautifully with creamy vodka sauce, but cooks up in minutes. Top with cheese and panko breadcrumbs to form a bubbling, crowd-pleasing baked pasta. Coq au Vin with Spaetzle by Gavin Kaysen Two classic dishes coq au vin and spaetzle come together in this elegant meal. Dont be intimidated by either component. Once you get a good sear on the chicken, the braise is mostly hands off, with the exception of a few flips of the meat. The buttery spaetzle doesnt require any special tools either. Just mix the dough together and push it through the bottom of a colander to get its unique shape. Chicken Parm Meatballs by Gaby Dalkin Take your meatball game to the next level. These juicy meatballs each have a cheesy surprise in the center as a nod to chicken Parm. Theyre cooked in marinara and finished with both fresh basil leaves and a basil vinaigrette for a pop of herbaceousness. Molly Yeh's Tater Tot Chicken Potpie by Molly Yeh This playful twist tops pot pie with another comfort food tater tots in an homage to hot dish. Packed with tender chicken, carrots, peas and a creamy sauce, the casserole is so much better than the old-fashioned version. Mini Ravioli Soup by Laura Vitale Warm up with a bowl of mini ravioli soup. This recipe combines sausage, store-bought pasta and aromatics in a rich soup made with marinara sauce and beef stock. Its a one-pot wonder that combines convenience and flavor. Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff by Casey Barber If you need a set-it-and-forget-it dinner thats full of comfort, look no further than this slow-cooker beef stroganoff. The broth, filled with onions, mushrooms and succulent beef, is especially delicious on a cold winters night when spooned over wide egg noodles. Beef Bourguignon by Curtis Stone Beef Bourguignon is a classic dish that never goes out of style. This version uses bacon and tomato paste for extra depth of flavor. While its tempting to pour in any cheap wine, its best to use a bottle that you actually like to drink youll notice a difference in the finished stew. One-Pot Beef Stew with Ketchup by Casey Barber No tomato paste? No problem! This rich stew gets its acidic kick from ketchup so theres no need to make a last-minute grocery store run. Cubes of beef chuck slowly braise with red potatoes, carrots and onions in wine and beef broth until succulent. Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chili by Gaby Dalkin Packed with wholesome ingredients, this hearty chili combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavors of black beans and quinoa. Its a simple one-pot wonder that comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy days. Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders by Siri Daly These Parmesan-crusted chicken tenders will be a hit with adults and kids alike. Panko breadcrumbs give the tenderloins a nice, crunchy bite, while the grated cheese takes the flavor up a notch. Dont forget Siri Dalys special sauce a sweet-tangy combination of ketchup, mayo and mustard. Baked Cheeseburger Stuffed Pasta Shells by Casey Barber Whats even better than Hamburger Helper? A homemade baked pasta that has the same great flavor. This recipe takes classic cheeseburger ingredients such as ground beef, cheddar, and relish and stuffs them into giant shells that are kid-friendly and totally unique. Best Eggplant Parmesan by Nina Elder Breading and frying eggplant can be a time-consuming process. This variation on eggplant Parm trims down the work without sacrificing on flavor or texture. Layering baked eggplant between sauce, fresh mozzarella, and Parmesan breadcrumbs gives the same breaded effect with far less effort. Just remember to salt the eggplant, which removes some moisture and seasons it, too. Rao's Meatballs with Marinara Sauce by Rao's Raos Homemade Marinara is available at most supermarkets (and a TODAY-approved favorite!), but if youre feeling ambitious, use this recipe to make it from scratch. The famed restaurants meatballs are equally delicious and get their tender texture from this technique tip: Add the water, breadcrumbs and cheese in layers so its easy to mix. Cacio e Pepe by Nadia Caterina Munno, "The Pasta Queen" Cacio e pepe is a timeless Italian pasta thats as impressive as it is simple. Velvety strands of spaghetti are coated in a luscious blend of Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly ground black pepper. The trick to great-tasting noodles? Season the water with salt until it tastes like soup, not the ocean. Lemony Chicken and Rice Casserole by Jocelyn Delk Adams Brighten up your dinner table with this delightful casserole. Tender chicken and fluffy rice infused with zesty lemon flavor come together in this easy weeknight crowd-pleaser. Don Angie's Lasagna Pinwheels by Scott Tacinelli and Angie Rito These lasagna pinwheels arent just fun to serve because of their unique shape, each swirl has that coveted crispy top balanced with a soft and delicate interior. Calling for from-scratch pasta, bechamel, bolognese and tomato sauce, this recipe is no doubt a project, but one that yields a truly memorable dinner (no reservation needed). Shrimp Creole by Dominique Charles and Gabrielle Charles Sanders Savor the vibrant flavors of the South with this shrimp Creole. Succulent shrimp is simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce thats infused with aromatic spices. Serve over hot rice for a filling meal loaded with bold flavors and a kick of heat. Baked Ziti Bolognese by Anthony Scotto For a dinner thats equal parts comforting and indulgent, try this baked ziti bolognese. Its packed with a hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese and both mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, then baked until golden and bubbling. Dylan's Chicken Piccata by Dylan Dreyer Chicken piccata is a dish that effortlessly combines elegance with simplicity. The buttery lemon sauce studded with capers lend a burst of tangy, savory flavor to tender chicken cutlets. Serve atop pasta with spinach or other veggies of your choice for a complete meal. Cheeseburger Pasta by Kia Damon No need to spend all evening flipping patties this cheeseburger-inspired pasta has the same great flavor with far less work. Ground beef, onions, cheddar cheese and corkscrew-shaped pasta come together in one skillet to satisfy your burger cravings. Chicken Potpie with Biscuit Topping by David Venable Hosting a last-minute Sunday dinner party? This chicken potpie is ready in half an hour, thanks to a few handy shortcuts. The filling is made from rotisserie chicken, frozen mixed vegetables and cream of chicken soup, while canned biscuits form the impressive-looking top. Side Dishes Loubieh (Green Beans in Tomato Reduction) by Reem Assil Quick-cooking green beans are always a wonderful side dish for family dinners. This Arab-style recipe cooks tomatoes down into a sweet-tangy sauce that makes crisp green beans pop. Citrusy Candied Carrots with Yogurt Sauce by Will Coleman Freshly grated ginger and ground cardamom enhance the natural sweetness of charred roasted carrots, while a tangy yogurt sauce and dusting of smoked paprika add brightness. The flavors mingle beautifully in this dish, which pairs well with grilled or roasted proteins or can even work as a standalone vegetarian entree. Balsamic-Honey Roasted Carrots by Lauren Salkeld All you need are a few pantry staples to take roasted carrots from dull to lively. Balsamic vinegar and honey enhance the root vegetables naturally sweet flavor, while adding a bit of depth and zip. Garnish with fresh thyme, which lends a minty, lemony aroma, to make it a celebration-worthy side dish. Creamy Mashed Potatoes by Kristen Kish There are two tricks that make these mashed potatoes so irresistibly creamy and luxurious. First, the spuds are cooked in chicken broth, which gives them a greater depth of flavor. Once theyre done, the potatoes are mashed with a few tablespoons of cream cheese for extra richness. Joanna Gaines' Buttermilk Biscuits by Joanna Gaines The key to buttery, flaky biscuits is quite simple: Use cold, small pieces of butter. These fluffy buttermilk rounds can be enjoyed a number of ways serve as a side to entrees, use them as a pot pie topping or turn them into a sweet treat. Al Roker's Baked Potatoes by Al Roker A classic baked potato can easily be dressed up or down, making it an ideal side dish for any kind of dinner party. Serve plain with a pat of butter or make it the star of the show with a baked potato bar featuring hearty toppings like pulled pork or chili. Insalata Verde by Jody Williams and Rita Sodi A truly amazing salad is one you could eat every day and thats the case with this insalata verde from New York City restaurant Via Carota. The mix of different greens offer a perfect balance of crunch and flavor thats especially lovely with the zippy thyme-infused vinaigrette. Slow-Cooker Scalloped Potatoes by Casey Barber With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can pull off fancy-looking scalloped potatoes. The creamy, cheesy side dish will easily steal the spotlight at Sunday dinner, but thanks to the magic of a slow cooker, most of the work can be done ahead of time. Perfect Roast Vegetables by Katie Stilo and Anthony Contrino A plate of perfectly roasted vegetables goes with just about everything. From cruciferous vegetables in the winter to summer squash, theres never a shortage of veggies to pop in the oven. Thanks to this handy recipe, you can learn exactly how and how long to get a beautiful caramelization without overcooking them. Sunny Anderson's Roasted Potatoes with Rosemary and Thyme by Sunny Anderson With just a handful of ingredients and a hot oven, you can achieve crispy, golden-brown potatoes. Rosemary and thyme add a delightful burst of flavor, making these roasted spuds a dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Potato Gratin-Stuffed Sweet Vidalia Onion with Chives by Jeremy Ford Whether served as an appetizer or a side, stuffed onions are guaranteed to impress a crowd. These are stuffed with a potato gratin filling thats cheesy and decadent. Snap Peas with Feta and Mint by Richard Blais Feta and mint are a classic flavor pairing that brings brightness and saltiness to charred snap peas. The dish is ready in 15 minutes, making it a great option for busy Sundays in the spring and summer, when peas are at their prime. Joy Bauer's Oven-Baked French Fries by Joy Bauer Oven-baked French fries are a healthier and less messy alternative to the deep-fried kind, but theyre just as crave-worthy. To get a nice crispy texture, pop the tray beneath the broiler for a few minutes before serving. This article was originally published on TODAY.com 8 photos of Elon Musk's visit to China, from a 16-course dinner with an executive to burgers with his factory workers 8 photos of Elon Musk's visit to China, from a 16-course dinner with an executive to burgers with his factory workers Elon Musk is visiting China for the first time in three years. Photos from the visit show Musk's private jet landing and the Tesla CEO's 16-course meal. China is home to Tesla's biggest factory and the world's largest EV market. Elon Musk touched down in China for the first time in three years on Tuesday a key trip for the Tesla chief. China is a crucial market for Tesla. It is home to the electric-car maker's largest production hub, as well as the biggest EV market in the world. Musk's social media company, Twitter, is banned in China. The billionaire's private jet landed at an airport in Beijing. Musk had flown from Austin, Texas to Anchorage, Alaska and then China, according to the college student who tracks Musk's jet using public data. Elon Musk's private jet landed at an airport in Beijing on Tuesday. REUTERS/Tingshu Wang The Tesla boss was welcomed into the country and greeted with praise, according to a report from Reuters. The publication said that Musk was hailed as a "pioneer" and called "Brother Ma" a reference to Alibaba's Jack Ma. Musk was spotted leaving his hotel in Beijing alongside Tesla's Senior VP of Automotive Tom Zhu, one of the billionaire's righthand men at the electric-car maker. Elon Musk walks next to Tesla's Senior Vice President Tom Zhu and Vice President Grace Tao as he leaves a hotel in Beijing REUTERS/Tingshu Wang On Tuesday, Musk visited the Chinese Ministry of Commerce in Beijing, where photos showed him getting out of a Model X. Elon Musk reaches out for a handshake before leaving the Chinese Ministry of Commerce in Beijing REUTERS/Tingshu Wang The CEO met with Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang, Reuters said. Qin reportedly told Musk that China wants to improve relations between Tesla and the country, and the foreign ministry told Reuters in a statement that Musk had said he's interested in advancing the carmaker's reach in China. Musk met with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Handout via REUTERS On Tuesday night, he and Zeng Yuqun, the founder of battery manufacturer Contemporary Amperex Technology, enjoyed a 16-course meal at an upscale restaurant Man Fu Yan, Reuters reported. The menu appears to have been custom made for Musk and was emblazoned with Tesla's logo, according to photos posted on social media. Musk reportedly had a 16-course meal in Beijing. Weibo On Wednesday, he met with China's minister of industry and information technology, Jin Zhuanglong, Associated Press reported. The billionaire finished his trip to China at Tesla's factory in Shanghai. Musk treated about 100 workers at the plant to burgers and soda, Bloomberg reported. He also delivered a speech to staff and told them that their hard work "warms" his heart, according to a video that was posted by Tesla's China team on the Chinese social media site Weibo. Elon Musk posed for a photo with workers at Tesla's Shanghai factory. Tesla/Handout via REUTERS The Tesla CEO departed from Shanghai on his private jet on Thursday. Elon Musk left Shanghai on his private jet on Thursday. REUTERS/Aly Song Musk and a spokesperson for Tesla did not respond to a request for comment ahead of publication. The billionaire has yet to post about his visit on Twitter, which is banned in China. Musk is one of several US CEOs to visit China in recent months. In May, the billionaire said growing tensions between China and the US "should be a concern for everyone." "The Chinese economy and the rest of the global economy are like conjoined twins. It would be like trying to separate conjoined twins. That's the severity of the situation," Musk told CNBC's David Faber, adding that the situation will be "worse" for companies other than Tesla, including Apple. Musk has been seen being friendly with Chinese officials in the past. In 2019, the billionaire met with the then-premier of the People's Republic of China, Li Keqiang. And in 2020, Musk celebrated the grand opening of Tesla's Shanghai factory by dancing on stage. Musk danced on stage at the grand opening of Tesla's Shanghai factory in 2020. STR/AFP via Getty Images Some analysts have hailed Musk's visit to China as a positive sign. Wedbush tech analyst Dan Ives said in a note that Musk appears to be "playing nice" with Beijing as Tesla "finds itself in a tight wire act to balance its success and production within China which remains a vital market in both the supply and demand front." Do you work for Tesla or in tech? Reach out to the reporter from a non-work email at gkay@insider.com Read the original article on Business Insider Six months after Danny Masterson's rape trial was declared a mistrial, a Los Angeles Superior Court jury found the disgraced actor guilty of forcibly raping two women in separate incidents, in a subsequent retrial. The That '70s Show star was convicted of two out of three counts of rape on Wednesday, two weeks after closing arguments ended, according to Los Angeles Times reporter James Queally present at the trial. The jury was deadlocked on a third count. "We want to express our gratitude to the three women who came forward and bravely shared their experiences. Their courage and strength have been an inspiration to us all," Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon said in a statement following the verdict. "While we are disappointed that the jury did not convict on all counts, we respect their decision. The verdicts handed down by the jury in this case were undoubtedly a difficult one to reach and we thank the jurors for their service." The verdict comes almost three years after Masterson was charged in June 2020 with "forcibly raping three women in separate incidents occurring between 2001 and 2003." Premiere Of Blue Fox Entertainment's "Big Bear" - Arrivals Michael Tullberg/Getty Danny Masterson The actor, who pleaded not guilty and has denied all of the allegations against him, did not testify at the retrial. He faces up to 45 years in prison. Masterson's wife, actress Bijou Phillips, reportedly let out a cry in the courtroom shortly after the verdict was read, according to the L.A. Times. Masterson's first rape trial ended in a mistrial on Nov. 30, 2022 after the jury was unable to reach a consensus on the three counts after more than seven attempts and a week-long recess for Thanksgiving to secure a verdict. The case became even more complicated after two jurors tested positive for COVID-19 and had to be subsequently replaced. During the new trial, Deputy District Attorney Ariel Anson told the jury that Masterson drugged his victims and used being a member of the Church of Scientology as a way to escape the consequences of his actions, per the Associated Press. "You don't want to have sex? You don't have a choice," Anson said. "The defendant makes that choice for these victims. And he does it over and over and over again." Conversely, Masterson's lawyer Philip Cohen pointed to the inconsistencies within the women's testimonies and the lack of drugging evidence, per the outlet. "Miss Anson presented a case as if she was arguing a drugging case," he said. "Maybe it's because there is no evidence of force or violence." Although the judge explained that the Church of Scientology was not on trial, the organization still loomed heavily over the case. All three women, as well as Masterson, were members of the church when the alleged assaults took place and claimed that they were intimidated, harassed, and stalked after Masterson was charged. Their civil lawsuit against the church and Masterson is still pending. Sign up for Entertainment Weekly's free daily newsletter to get breaking news, exclusive first looks, recaps, reviews, interviews with your favorite stars, and more. Related content: Mike Coppola/Getty A Los Angeles jury convicted actor Danny Masterson on two of three rape charges on Wednesday, capping a contentious retrial filled with graphic testimony and the looming influence of the Church of Scientology. Jurors, who deliberated for eight days, were hung on the third count of rape. Masterson, 47, is now staring down a maximum sentence of 30 years behind bars15 for each conviction. The minimum sentence for a rape conviction in California is three years. The That '70s Show star was reportedly handcuffed at the defense table and held there as spectators in the courtroom filed out Wednesday. Hell remain in custody until his sentencing hearing on Aug. 4. Relatives of Masterson reportedly fought back tears in the public gallery after the verdict was read. Mastersons wife, Bijou Phillips, became so emotional that a judge threatened to remove her if she couldnt stay composed, reported independent journalist Meghann Cuniff. Masterson and Bijou Phillips picturing arriving at court on Wednesday. Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times via Getty Each of Mastersons three accusers alleged that Masterson raped them in the early 2000s after he slipped drugs into their drinks. Prosecutors said victims were fearful of coming forward initially because the Church of Scientologyof which Masterson and the victims were membersforced them to stay silent. Los Angeles cops began investigating Masterson in 2016, but formal charges didnt come until 2020. Masterson went to trial last fall, but jurors were deadlocked and a mistrial was declared. Reports at the time said a majority of jurors were in favor of acquitting Masterson on all counts. Five months after the hung jury, Mastersons retrial began in late April. Prosecutors' arguments were largely the same, with an added emphasis that Mastersons three accusers became dizzy and discombobulated after they were served drinks by the actor and subsequently raped. Prosecutors alleged that Masterson raped the women as they bounced in and out of consciousness. When the women tried to speak up after the assault, prosecutors claimed they were silenced by Scientology officials and Masterson, who claimed the rape never occurred and demanded they stay away from law enforcement. Ariel Anson, a deputy district attorney, argued during the trial that Masterson carefully sought out his prey. Most of his victims are members of the Church of Scientology, and that makes sense, Anson said. The church tells his victims: Rape isnt rape. You cause this. And above all, you cant go to law enforcement. Mastersons accusers were identified in court by partial namesChrissy B., Jen B., and N. Trout. Just like the first trial, Masterson never testified and his attorneys called no witnesses, instead relying on cross-examination to undermine each accusers credibility. The defense singled out Chrissy specifically, asking why the womanwho was dating Masterson at the timewas willing to stay with the actor in his home and hotels while allegedly being sexually assaulted. Ashton Kutcher Wants Danny Masterson to Be Found Innocent of Rape Charges Philip Cohen, a defense attorney, emphasized there was no forensic evidence that anyone was drugged or raped by Masterson. He also claimed the accusers had a slew of inconsistencies that were ignored by prosecutors. She did a very nice job of ignoring many of them, Cohen said of prosecutors. What she views as little inconsistencies are at the heart of trying to determine, is somebody reliable, credible, believable enough for a criminal conviction? Chrissy alleged that Masterson regularly had sex with her while she slept. Despite alleging multiple rapes, the lone incident jurors were tasked to decide on occurred in November 2001 when Chrissy claims she woke up during an assault and fought back. Despite her efforts, she said Masterson hit her and continued to rape her. Trout alleged an equally chilling assault. She said Mastersons brutality made her throw up in her mouth as he assaulted her. When her pleas for him to stop werent enough, she claims she begged Masterson to at least put a condom on. Jen said she was raped by Masterson after they went out for drinks in Hollywood. Once home, she said Masterson pulled out a gun and suffocated her with a pillow after he drugged one of her drinks. Masterson vehemently denied all wrongdoing from the jump. He appeared calm while arriving at court for closing arguments Tuesday, walking into the court alongside Phillips with a Starbucks drink in hand. REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson His defense repeatedly dismissed Scientologys influence on the trial, saying allegations about the churchs alleged cover-up were to cover for a weak case by the government. Many church members reportedly attended the trial, sometimes arguing with critics just outside the courtroom, the Los Angeles Times reported. Reports suggest the powerful church may have been more than just a spectator, however. Vicki Podberesky, who is serving as Scientologys outside counsel, reportedly possessed a large quantity of restricted discovery materials and used it to bring a complaint to the district attorneys office, the Times reported. Deputy District Attorney Reinhold Mueller called Podbereskys involvement extremely troubling, and said its a mystery how evidence made it outside the courtroom. Podberesky told the Times she obtained all documents legally. Leah Remini, an actress and former Scientology member, was enraged that the church inserted itself into the trial so shamelessly. Scientology has no reason to have criminal discovery materials in its possession, she tweeted last week. No reason at all. Scientology, which SHOULD be a co-defendant in this trial, has repeatedly lied, saying it has no covert involvement in this trial. After Wednesdays verdict, Remini tweeted that the outcome had been a relief. The women who survived Danny Mastersons predation are heroes, she wrote. For years, they and their families have faced vicious attacks and harassment from Scientology and Danny's well-funded legal team. Nevertheless, they soldiered on, determined to seek justice. While it is up to them to decide whether they are satisfied with this verdict, I am relieved that Danny Masterson is facing some justice after over two decades of brutal sexual violence with no criminal consequences. Remini added that the case was just the beginning of our plan to hold Scientology leadership accountable. While not part of Mastersons criminal trial, the church was sued by the actors accusers in 2022. The accusers claim Scientology conspired with Masterson to intimidate them into staying quiet. That civil case is still pending. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Photo: Lucy Nicholson (Getty Images) After eight days of jury deliberations in a retrial, Danny Masterson has been convicted on two out of three counts of rape. The That 70's Show actor and prominent Scientologist was accused of raping three womenall former members of the controversial churchbetween 2001 and 2003, at the height of his fame. On Wednesday, as Mastersons conviction was read aloud in a packed courtroom, reporters noted that he sat stone faced. Masterson was then handcuffed and taken to jail. Meanwhile, his wife, actor Bijou Phillips, reportedly let out a pained cry and audibly wept until Judge Charlene Olmedo asked her whether she needed to step outside the courtroom. Read more Following a mistrial in November 2022 wherein a jury was hopelessly deadlocked, Olmedo ruled that Masterson would be retried in Los Angeles court, beginning in April. It appears there are many other witnesses the people could choose to call or different arguments the people could choose to make, Olmedo, who denied a defense request to dismiss the case, said in January. A different outcome at a retrial is at least a possibility. Jury finds Danny Masterson GUILTY of two counts of rape. Masterson sits stone faced at defense table. Family members in audience fighting back tears. Bijou starts crying. "Can you maintain your composure? I know it's hard. But if not I need you to step outside," judge tells her. Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) May 31, 2023 Mastersons accusers, identified in court as Jane Does 1, 2, and 3, alleged that the actor violently raped them in his Hollywood Hills home. Given that all of the women were also Scientologists, the institution played a notable role in both proceedings. Courtroom is packed. Masterson's wife, Bijou Phillips, let out a pained cry not long after verdict was read. Some of Masterson's relatives and Billy Baldwin are also here in support. James Queally (@JamesQueallyLAT) May 31, 2023 I am experiencing a complex array of emotions relief, exhaustion, strength, sadness knowing that my abuser, Danny Masterson, will face accountability for his criminal behavior, Jane Doe 2 said in a statement to Jezebel. I am disappointed that he was not convicted on all counts, but take great solace in the fact that he, the Church of Scientology, and others, will have to fully account for their abhorrent actions in civil court. Similar to the first trial, the jury was locked 8-4 toward a guilty verdict on the third count of rape stemming from Jane Doe 3's allegation against Masterson. I thank the jury for its service, and while Im encouraged that Danny Masterson will face some criminal punishment, I am devastated that he has dodged criminal accountability for his heinous conduct against me, Jane Doe 3 said in a statement to Jezebel. Despite my disappointment in this outcome, I remain determined to secure justice, including in civil court, where I, along with my co-plaintiffs, will shine a light on how Scientology and other conspirators enabled and sought to cover up Mastersons monstrous behavior. Mastersons next hearing is set for August 4, 2023. More from Jezebel Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Abbott accuses one of its former scientists of trade-secrets theft in US court FILE PHOTO: Abbott Laboratories logo is displayed on a screen at the NYSE in New York By Mike Scarcella (Reuters) - Healthcare company Abbott Laboratories on Tuesday sued one of its former scientists, accusing him in U.S. court of "secretly downloading" sensitive corporate files containing competitive information about nutrition products. The lawsuit in Chicago federal court alleged Roger Tyre committed "flagrant misconduct" prior to leaving Illinois-based Abbott, which sells the Ensure brand nutrition powders and shakes. Abbott said it learned of the alleged downloads of thousands of files in March. Tyre, who worked at Abbott from 2012 to 2018, developed products and "supported Abbott's existing products by troubleshooting and addressing any issues," according to Abbott's complaint. Formulations for products, the lawsuit said, "are valuable trade secrets and maintaining that secrecy is critical to Abbott's business." "[C]ompanies could use the information stolen by Tyre to quickly and cheaply develop products in competition with Abbott's current portfolio of nutritional products," the lawsuit alleged. Abbott's lawyers argued the "misappropriation will cause Abbott irreparable harm by undermining Abbott's competitive advantage in the nutrition market." Abbott saw global sales last year of more than $43 billion. Tyre was not reached for comment, and a lawyer had not yet appeared in the case on his behalf. After leaving Abbott, Tyre worked at manufacturer Better Nutritionals LLC, whose website identified him as chief operating officer. A spokesperson for Better Nutritionals and a lawyer at the company did not respond to requests for comment. An Abbott spokesperson and a lawyer for the company also did not respond to messages seeking comment. Better Nutritionals, according to the lawsuit, contacted Abbott in March after allegedly discovering two USB drives from Tyre's office before his departure from the California-based company. Abbott is seeking unspecified monetary damages, an injunction "prohibiting Tyre from using or disclosing Abbott's trade secrets or confidential information." The lawsuit marked the latest effort by Abbott in the U.S. courts to protect trade secrets. In 2020, Abbott claimed a breach of an employment agreement in a lawsuit against a vice president of global marketing in the company's diagnostics business. The case settled less than a month after it was filed. Abbott sued a senior clinical and regulatory senior director last year, and also settled that case within about a month. The case is Abbott Laboratories v. Roger Tyre, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, No. 1:23-cv-03381. For Abbott: Ronald Safer of Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila For Tyre: No appearance yet (Reporting by Mike Scarcella; editing by Leigh Jones) Abcarian: There's a reason for the LGBTQ+ backlash. And it isn't all bad news. A Pride Month display at a Target in Daly City near San Francisco. Customers complaints elsewhere prompted Target to move some merchandise to the back of stores. (Robin Abcarian / Los Angeles Times) Confederate flags offend me. They represent the violence of slavery and nostalgia for a white supremacist past. Assault weapons offend me. They represent death and destruction and the moral bankruptcy of politicians willing to sacrifice American children on the altar of the 2nd Amendment. But rainbow colored T-shirts, dresses and baby rompers? Greeting cards that say Im happy that youre queer"? Who could possibly be offended by items that celebrate and affirm the rights of gay and trans people to simply live in peace? Yeah, I know: a bunch of people. As we have seen recently, in boycotts against slightly enlightened corporations such as Anheuser-Busch InBev and Target, there is a concerted effort, led mainly by conservative Christians, to punish businesses that embrace the LGBTQ+ community. Anheuser-Busch found itself in the crosshairs when transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney promoted Bud Light on their social media feeds during March Madness. Target ticked off the forces of intolerance with its annual Pride Month display of merchandise, although it's been putting up rainbows at the end of May for more than a decade. Bud Light sales have plummeted; the company didnt apologize but backtracked, saying it never intended to be part of a discussion that divides people. Target said the backlash has endangered its employees and removed some items from shelves. In some stores, the retailer said, Pride displays were relocated from the front to the back. Its stock has taken a hit. A rapper whose grotesque facial tattoos would scare the living daylights out of any child I know has dropped a music video claiming that Target is targeting our kids. You know they cutting these kids, raps Forgiato Blow, they leaving trannies with scars. Its remarkable how he was able to pack so much ignorance and disdain into one sentence. Even in our own generally liberal community, some parents at Saticoy Elementary School in North Hollywood made waves last week when they urged families to keep your children home and innocent rather than subject them to a Gay Pride and Rainbow Day Assembly on Friday. The Dodgers invited, disinvited, then reinvited the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a drag/charity group that calls attention to religious intolerance, to be honored at the team's June 16 Pride Night game. Why are we stuck in the middle of a moral panic about sexuality and gender identity? Why now? According to the Associated Press, nearly 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced in state legislatures this year. At least 17 states have passed laws that restrict or ban gender-affirming care for transgender minors. It's happening because ginning up fear about the corruption of children is a tried and true technique for rallying the far right. Because same-sex marriage is legal and transgender people have made extraordinary strides. Because the Christian right needed a new bogeyman after the Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade, neutralizing an issue that has animated the Republican base and turned out votes for decades. Because Americans have grown relaxed about the LGBTQ+ community. A 2020 survey conducted by GLAAD, an LGBTQ+ advocacy group, and Procter & Gamble found that 75% of people who do not identify as gay or trans or queer that is, a supermajority were comfortable with seeing non-straight folks in marketing campaigns. And, last but hardly least, it's happening because the number of Americans who do identify as LGBTQ+ has exploded. A February Gallup poll based on the aggregated data of 10,000 people found that nearly 20% of Generation Z, those born between 1997 and 2004, identified as LGBTQ+. By comparison, only 2.7% of Baby Boomers identified that way. This change is astonishing and proof that the stigma so long attached to gay, nonbinary and transgender people may finally be starting to fade away. Cue the backlash. The idea that being frank with kids about the range of human sexuality and gender, or that discussions about families that have two moms or two dads is somehow stealing the innocence of children, is ludicrous. As the guardian of a middle-schooler, I can tell you that her peers have been discussing their sexuality and gender since third grade, maybe earlier. They are much more comfortable and open than previous generations about these matters. And although they can talk easily about being bi or gender fluid, they dont equate those issues with actual sexual behavior, which is still too yucky to contemplate for elementary school kids and preteens. In any case, its a mystery to marketing experts why the backlash against Bud Light and Target has become so intense. After all, in some ways, Pride Month June has long been co-opted by corporations looking for marketing opportunities. Walmart has a Pride line of merchandise. As do Bloomingdales, Kohls, Hot Topic, Old Navy and even Michaels, the craft store. Campaigns for Levis have featured gay and trans people. J. Crew has displayed pride flags in its windows. On June 25, Coors Light is sponsoring a Pride Parade in Denver, something it has done for two decades. It wasnt very long ago that companies were being pilloried by groups like GLAAD for showing their pro-LGBTQ+ colors only one month a year pink washing or for donating money to fervently anti-LGBTQ+ politicians. At this moment, when the bigots are on the march, those are starting to feel like the good old days. @robinkabcarian This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Actor Danny Masterson was convicted of two counts of rape Wednesday after his second trial on charges that he sexually assaulted three women he met through the Church of Scientology, ending a years-long legal saga that marked a rare instance of the controversial faith's practices being dragged into a courtroom. After a week of deliberations, jurors were convinced the 47-year-old actor who rose to prominence as the mercurial Steven Hyde on the sitcom "That 70s Show" had sexually assaulted two women identified as Jen B. and N. Trout in his Hollywood Hills home in the early 2000s. The jurors hung on a third count stemming from allegations made by Chrissie B., who was once Masterson's longtime girlfriend. The jury foreperson said the panel was leaning toward a guilty verdict on that count but was deadlocked 8 to 4 in favor of conviction. Masterson remained calm and even chatty in the hallways of the downtown L.A. courthouse during deliberations. He did not visibly react to the verdict. His wife, model and actress Bijou Phillips, let out a pained cry when the verdict was read and sobbed heavily as Masterson was led away in handcuffs. Masterson faces 30 years to life in prison at sentencing. He is due back in court in early August. A spokeswoman for his defense team declined to comment on the verdict. I am experiencing a complex array of emotions relief, exhaustion, strength, sadness knowing that my abuser, Danny Masterson, will face accountability for his criminal behavior," N. Trout said in a statement. "I am disappointed that he was not convicted on all counts, but take great solace in the fact that he, the Church of Scientology, and others, will have to fully account for their abhorrent actions in civil court. Jurors previously hung on all counts against Masterson during a trial in late 2022, with most leaning toward an acquittal. But prosecutors sought a retrial, and in their second attempt, Deputy Dist. Attys. Reinhold Mueller and Ariel Anson focused much more heavily on the idea that Masterson not only preyed on members of his own church, but also used drugs to isolate them and make them vulnerable before each assault. The church loomed large over the proceedings, as it has ever since Los Angeles police began investigating Masterson in 2017. At the time, the actor dismissed the claims as an attempt to slander Scientology. But after then-Dist. Atty. Jackie Lacey brought rape charges against Masterson in 2020, prosecutors made the church's teachings a central tenet of their case. Each of the victims, they argued, waited years to report the rapes to police because they feared excommunication from Scientology for reporting Masterson. At various hearings since 2021, the women have testified that they were either discouraged from contacting law enforcement by Scientology officials or were told the incidents they described were not rape. On the witness stand, each victim also expressed fear that reporting Masterson would lead the church to label them "suppressive persons," effectively enemies of Scientology, and that their families would be barred from speaking to them. Scientology officials have repeatedly denied prohibiting members from cooperating with police. But after a 2021 preliminary hearing in Masterson's case , L.A. County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo ruled the church has an expressly written doctrine that discourages members from reporting one another to law enforcement. The church has said Olmedo's interpretation is incorrect. At the time of Olmedo's ruling, Scientology spokeswoman Karin Pouw said church policy explicitly demands Scientologists abide by all laws of the land, including the reporting of crimes. This is blatantly clear in the documents we understand were put before the Court and many others. In response to a request for comment Wednesday, Pouw provided a statement from the church that called the "introduction of religion" into the trial "an unprecedented violation" of the 1st Amendment: "The District Attorney unconscionably centered his prosecution on the defendant's religion and fabrications about the Church to introduce prejudice and inflame bigotry. The DA elicited testimony and descriptions of Scientology beliefs and practices which were uniformly FALSE." The church has appeared sensitive to the optics of the Masterson case. Beginning during the first trial last year, the church began to run commercials featuring its leader, David Miscavige, urging viewers to learn more about the religion from the church itself. "If you havent heard it from us, were not what you expect," Miscavige says in the advertisement. During the trial, a church organization claiming to oppose discrimination against Scientology has repeatedly targeted journalists covering the case, mocking them online and plastering the word "bigot" across doctored pictures of each reporter following any coverage that could be perceived as negative. The fact that its Danny Masterson from That 70s Show its not just local media reporting on a local case, it blows it up way bigger. It becomes part of Bill Cosby and Harvey Weinstein, said former Scientology spokesman Mike Rinder, who is now an outspoken critic of the church, during a 2021 interview with The Times. That instantly puts it into a different zone. Within Scientology, this becomes panic stations, high alert. All of the women described falling prey to Masterson after he served them drinks that made them disoriented and nauseated. Phillip Cohen, one of Masterson's defense attorneys, repeatedly noted that prosecutors presented zero forensic evidence to prove the victims were drugged. Chrissie B. said she endured a tumultuous and abusive relationship with Masterson in which he repeatedly spat on her, called her "white trash" and initiated sex with her while she was asleep. She alleged that one night in November 2001, she awoke to Masterson forcing himself on her. When she said no, he struck her, pinned her down and raped her, she testified. She also alleged that she lost consciousness after Masterson served her a drink at La Poubelle restaurant in Franklin Village in 2001, waking up the next morning in serious pain at the actor's Hollywood Hills home. Masterson told her they had sex, to her horror, according to a letter she wrote to a Scientology official that was presented at trial. That incident did not result in criminal charges. "I am devastated that he has dodged criminal accountability for his heinous conduct against me," Chrissie B. said in a statement Wednesday. "Despite my disappointment in this outcome, I remain determined to secure justice, including in civil court, where I, along with my co-plaintiffs, will shine a light on how Scientology and other conspirators enabled and sought to cover up Mastersons monstrous behavior. Jen B. described becoming weak and woozy after having a drink with Masterson, who she said brought her to his home and violently raped her, wielding a gun and suffocating her with a pillow. N. Trout described a similar experience, saying Masterson isolated her at his house once she grew weak. She alleged he groped her and digitally penetrated her in a shower before raping her so violently that she vomited. Masterson denied all wrongdoing. He did not testify at either trial, and his attorneys did not put forth a defense at the second trial. But across his cross-examinations and arguments, Cohen repeatedly noted that the prosecution had no way to corroborate any of the assaults and no evidence of drugging, while questioning if the victims were motivated by a bias against Scientology rather than anything Masterson had done. In addition to the women's allegations that Scientology officials discouraged them from reporting the rapes to police, the revelation that a church attorney obtained discovery materials in the case last month has sparked an LAPD investigation and allegations of impropriety from prosecutors. The materials obtained by attorney Vicki Podberesky included redacted text messages exchanged between Masterson's accusers and LAPD investigators, according to Mueller. A hearing to determine how Podberesky got the materials was set to take place Wednesday morning but was rescheduled by Olmedo because deliberations were ongoing. That hearing is now expected to take place next week. Podberesky said last month that she got the documents legally and did nothing wrong but declined to explain how they came into her possession. The church has not commented directly on that matter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Actor Danny Masterson and his wife, Bijou Phillips, arrive at Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center in Los Angeles on Wednesday for closing arguments in his second rape trial in Los Angeles. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times) Actor Danny Masterson was convicted of two counts of rape Wednesday after his second trial on charges that he sexually assaulted several women he met through the Church of Scientology in the early 2000s. Jurors hung on a third count after deliberating for a little more than a week. They contacted Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo around 11 a.m. Wednesday to say that they had reached a verdict on two of the three rape counts against Masterson but that were hopelessly deadlocked on a third. Jurors previously hung on all counts against Masterson during a trial in late 2022. The courtroom was packed with a mix of Masterson's relatives and supporters and other observers. The actor's wife, Bijou Phillips, let out a pained cry shortly after the verdict was read and began sobbing. Most of the allegations against Masterson aired in the roughly two-week trial first surfaced in 2017. The victims identified in court as Chrissy B., Jen B. and N. Trout were all practicing Scientologists when they met Masterson through the church. Jurors convicted Masterson of sexually assulting Jen B. and N. Trout but were unable to reach a verdict on the allegations against Chrissy B. Two of the women said they waited more than a decade to come forward because church officials discouraged them from contacting law enforcement, leaving them in the impossible situation of choosing between their faith and accountability for the man who allegedly raped them. All of the women had relatives in Scientology and feared they would be excommunicated and labeled "suppressive persons" if they went against Masterson and the church. Scientology officials have repeatedly denied prohibiting members from cooperating with police. But after a 2021 preliminary hearing, L.A. Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo ruled that the church has an expressly written doctrine that discourages members from reporting one another to law enforcement. The church has said Olmedo's interpretation is incorrect. All of the women described falling prey to Masterson after he served them drinks that made them disoriented and nauseous. Phillip Cohen, one of Masterson's defense attorneys, has repeatedly noted that prosecutors have zero forensic evidence to prove the victims were drugged. Chrissy B. said she endured a tumultuous and abusive relationship with Masterson where he repeatedly spit on her, called her "white trash" and initiated sex with her while she was asleep. She alleged that in November 2021, she awoke to Masterson forcing himself on her. When she said no, he struck her, pinned her down and raped her, she testified. She also alleged that she lost consciousness after Masterson served her a drink at La Poubelle restaurant in Franklin Village in 2001, waking up the next morning in serious pain at the actor's Hollywood Hills home. Masterson told her they had sex, to her horror, according to a letter she wrote to a Scientology official that was presented at trial. Jen B. described becoming weak and woozy after having a drink with Masterson, who she said brought her to his home and violently raped her, wielding a gun and suffocating her with a pillow. N. Trout described a similar experience, saying that Masterson isolated her at his house once she grew weak. She alleged he groped her and digitally penetrated her in a shower before raping her so violently that she vomited. Masterson has denied all wrongdoing. He did not testify at either trial, and his attorneys did not put forth a defense at the second trial. But across his cross-examinations and arguments, Cohen repeatedly noted that the prosecution had no way to corroborate any of the assaults and no evidence of drugging, while questioning if the victims were motivated by a bias against the church rather than anything Masterson had done. The church has loomed large over the proceedings. In addition to the women's allegations that Scientology officials discouraged them from reporting the rapes to police, the revelation that a church attorney obtained discovery materials in the case has sparked an LAPD investigation and allegations of impropriety from prosecutors. The materials obtained by attorney Vicki Podberesky included redacted text messages exchanged between Masterson's accusers and LAPD investigators, according to Los Angeles County Deputy Dist. Atty. Reinhold Mueller. A hearing to determine how Podberesky got the materials was set to take place Wednesday morning but was rescheduled by Olmedo because deliberations were ongoing. Podberesky said last month that she got the documents legally and did nothing wrong but declined to explain how they came into her possession. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. A jury has found That 70s Show actor Danny Masterson guilty of raping two women at his Hollywood Hills home in the early 2000s, according to The Associated Press. The jury was not able to come to a verdict on an additional count of rape involving a third woman. This was the second trial for the 47-year-old actor and Scientologist. Prosecutors said Scientology officials protected Masterson for years after he drugged and sexually assaulted the women. The women, who were also Scientologists, testified that the church barred them from making reports to police. Jurors deliberated for 8 days before returning their verdict. Minutes after it was read, Masterson was placed in handcuffs and removed from the courtroom while his wife, former actor and model Bijou Phillips, cried, according to the AP. The judge did not announce a sentencing date but said a hearing would be held on Aug. 4. Masterson must remain in jail without bail until then. He could be sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for the crimes. The original trial ended on Nov. 30, 2022, with the jury deadlocked on all counts after extended deliberations, which had to be restarted when two jurors got COVID. Masterson pleaded not guilty to the charges and didnt testify in his own defense in either trial. Danny Masterson appears at the CMT Music Awards in Nashville, Tennessee, on June 7, 2017. Danny Masterson appears at the CMT Music Awards in Nashville, Tennessee, on June 7, 2017. This second jury, comprising seven women and five men, was the first to hear allegations that Masterson had drugged his victims, which Judge Charlaine Olmedo had not allowed in the original trial. That jury only heard that the women had been incapacitated when Masterson allegedly raped them in separate incidents at his home between 2001 and 2003. The defendant drugs his victims to gain control. He does this to take away his victims ability to consent, Deputy District Attorney Ariel Anson told the jury in her closing argument on May 16, according to The Associated Press. You dont want to have sex? You dont have a choice, Anson said. The defendant makes that choice for these victims. And he does it over and over and over again. The first victim to testify said that Masterson smothered her with a pillow and threatened her with a gun during an attack in 2003, while she was semiconscious after drinking from a glass of alcohol he had served her. Masterson claimed that he had consensual sex with the women. His defense attorney Philip Cohen sought to discredit the women in his closing argument, pointing out inconsistencies in their stories and suggesting that the prosecution focused on Scientology to distract from other problems with the case, the Los Angeles Times reported. I am experiencing a complex array of emotions relief, exhaustion, strength, sadness knowing that my abuser, Danny Masterson, will face accountability for his criminal behavior, one of the women, known as Jane Doe 2, said in a statement provided to HuffPost by her attorneys, Boies Schiller Flexner. I am disappointed that he was not convicted on all counts, but take great solace in the fact that he, the Church of Scientology, and others, will have to fully account for their abhorrent actions in civil court. I thank the jury for its service, and while Im encouraged that Danny Masterson will face some criminal punishment, I am devastated that he has dodged criminal accountability for his heinous conduct against me, said Jane Doe 3, on whose charge the jury deadlocked, in a statement also provided by Boies Schiller Flexner. Despite my disappointment in this outcome, I remain determined to secure justice, including in civil court, where I, along with my co-plaintiffs, will shine a light on how Scientology and other conspirators enabled and sought to cover up Mastersons monstrous behavior. The judge ruled that more evidence related to Scientology could be heard in this second trial allowing former Scientology official Claire Headley to testify as an expert witness to push back on church denials about its policies and principles, which critics have described as controlling and abusive. The women, who are no longer Scientologists, testified that the church barred them from reporting the assaults to police, blamed them for the alleged rapes, and harassed, intimidated and stalked them. Headley, who sued the church in 2009 after years of rising through the ranks of its Sea Org religious order, testified that it is policy that you do not call police without specific authorization and that by the laws of Scientology, it would be a high crime to report a fellow Scientologist to the police without permission. Church of Scientology spokesperson Karin Pouw flatly denied that such policies exist in the church. The Church has no policy prohibiting or discouraging members from reporting criminal conduct of anyone, Scientologists or not, to law enforcement, Pouw said in a statement to HuffPost. She also called the stalking and harassment allegations an attempted money grab by the alleged victims who are also suing Masterson and the church in a civil suit. In closing arguments, Anson said, The church taught his victims, Rape isnt rape, you caused this, and above all, you are never allowed to go to law enforcement, calling Masterson untouchable because of his celebrity status in Scientology, the AP reported. During jurors deliberations, Leah Remini posted a letter that she claimed a mother of one of the victims sent to Scientology leader David Miscavige in 2004, listing graphic details of Mastersons alleged sexual assaults. The mother concluded by asking whether the church tried to persuade her daughter to perjure herself so that their celeb can walk scout [sic] free and whether celebs are exempt from justice codes. Masterson is best known for playing Steven Hyde on all eight seasons of That 70s Show, which aired on Fox from 1998 to 2006. Masterson was the only original member of the cast not to appear in That 90s Show, a Netflix sequel series that debuted in January. Representatives for Masterson have not responded to requests for comment. The Church of Scientology said in a statement Thursday that the trial had violated the First Amendment. The District Attorney unconscionably centered his prosecution on the defendants religion and fabrications about the Church to introduce prejudice and inflame bigotry. The DA elicited testimony and descriptions of Scientology beliefs and practices which were uniformly FALSE, the church said. In his own statement after the verdict, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon said,We want to express our gratitude to the three women who came forward and bravely shared their experiences. Their courage and strength have been an inspiration to us all. While we are disappointed that the jury did not convict on all counts, we respect their decision. Need help? Visit RAINNs National Sexual Assault Online Hotline or the National Sexual Violence Resource Centers website. Subscribe to our true crime newsletter, Suspicious Circumstances, to get the biggest unsolved mysteries, white collar scandals, and captivating cases delivered straight to your inbox every week. Sign up here. Related... FILE - Danny Masterson appears at the CMT Music Awards in Nashville, Tenn., June 7, 2017. A jury found That 70s Show star Masterson guilty of two counts of rape Wednesday, May 31, 2023, in a Los Angeles retrial in which the Church of Scientology played a central role. (Photo by Wade Payne/Invision/AP, File) LOS ANGELES (AP) That '70s Show star Danny Masterson was led out in handcuffs from a Los Angeles courtroom Wednesday and could get 30 years to life in prison after a jury found him guilty on two of three counts of rape at his second trial, in which the Church of Scientology played a central role. Masterson's wife, actor and model Bijou Phillips, gasped when the verdict was read and wept as he was taken into custody, while a group of family and friends who sat stone-faced behind him throughout both trials. The jury of seven women and five men reached the verdict after deliberating for seven days spread over two weeks. They could not reach a verdict on the third count, that alleged Masterson raped a longtime girlfriend. They had voted 8-4 in favor of conviction. Masterson, 47, will be held without bail until he is sentenced. No sentencing date was set. I am experiencing a complex array of emotions relief, exhaustion, strength, sadness knowing that my abuser, Danny Masterson, will face accountability for his criminal behavior, one of the women, whom Masterson knew as a fellow member of the church and was convicted of raping at his home in 2003, said in a statement. A second woman, a former girlfriend, whose count left the jury deadlocked, said in the statement: While Im encouraged that Danny Masterson will face some criminal punishment, I am devastated that he has dodged criminal accountability for his heinous conduct against me. A spokesperson for Masterson declined to comment, but his attorneys will almost certainly appeal. After a deadlocked jury led to a mistrial in December, prosecutors retried Masterson, saying he drugged and forcibly raped three women in his Hollywood Hills home between 2001 and 2003. They said he used his prominence in the church where all three women were also members at the time to avoid consequences for decades. We want to express our gratitude to the three women who came forward and bravely shared their experiences," Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon said in a statement after the verdict Wednesday. Masterson did not testify, and his lawyers called no witnesses. The defense argued that the acts were consensual, and attempted to discredit the womens stories by highlighting changes and inconsistencies over time, which they said showed signs of coordination between them. If you decide that a witness deliberately lied about something in this case, defense attorney Philip Cohen told jurors, going through their instructions in his closing argument, You should consider not believing anything that witness says. The Church of Scientology played a significant role in the first trial but arguably an even larger one in the second. Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo allowed expert testimony on church policy from a former official in Scientology leadership who has become a prominent opponent. The church said in a statement after the verdict that the introduction of religion into this trial was an unprecedented violation of the First Amendment and affects the due process rights of every American. The Church was not a party to this case and religion did not belong in this proceeding as Supreme Court precedent has maintained for centuries. Tensions ran high in the courtroom between current and former Scientologists, and even leaked into testimony, with the accusers saying on the stand that they felt intimidated by some members in the room. Actor Leah Remini, a former member who has become the churchs highest-profile critic, sat in on the trial at times, putting her arm around one of the accusers to comfort her during closing arguments. Remini said on Twitter that the two guilty verdicts in the retrial are a relief. The women who survived Danny Mastersons predation are heroes. For years, they and their families have faced vicious attacks and harassment from Scientology and Dannys well-funded legal team," she posted. "Nevertheless, they soldiered on, determined to seek justice. The alleged harassment is the subject of a civil lawsuit filed by two of the accusers. The Scientology statement said there is not a scintilla of evidence supporting the scandalous allegations that the Church harassed the accusers. Founded in 1953 by L. Ron Hubbard, the Church of Scientology has many members who work in Hollywood. The judge kept limits on how much prosecutors could talk about the church, and primarily allowed it to explain why the women took so long to go to authorities. The women testified that when they reported Masterson to church officials, they were told they were not raped, were put through ethics programs themselves, and were warned against going to law enforcement to report a member of such high standing. They were raped, they were punished for it, and they were retaliated against, Deputy District Attorney Reinhold Mueller told jurors in his closing argument. Scientology told them theres no justice for them. The church called the testimony and descriptions of Scientology beliefs during the trial uniformly false. The Church has no policy prohibiting or discouraging members from reporting criminal conduct of anyone Scientologists or not to law enforcement, the statement said. Next week Olmedo will hold a hearing to determine how a lawyer who represents the Church of Scientology had evidence that the prosecution had shared with the defense. The evidence involved links that the lawyer accidentally included in an email to Mueller. The Associated Press does not typically name people who say theyve been sexually abused. Testimony in this case was graphic and emotional. The two women whose testimony led to Masterson's conviction said that in 2003, he gave them drinks and that they then became woozy or passed out before he violently raped them. The third, Mastersons then-girlfriend of five years whose count left the jury deadlocked, said she awoke to find him raping her, and had to pull his hair to stop him. Olmedo allowed prosecutors and accusers to say directly in the second trial that Masterson drugged the women, while only allowing the women to describe their condition in the first trial. Masterson was not charged with any counts of drugging, and there was no toxicology evidence to back up the assertion. The charges dated to a period when Masterson was at the height of his fame, starring from 1998 until 2006 as Steven Hyde on Foxs That 70s Show the show that made stars of Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis and Topher Grace. Masterson had reunited with Kutcher on the 2016 Netflix comedy The Ranch, but was written off the show when an LAPD investigation was revealed in December 2017. Actor Danny Masterson found guilty of 2 counts of rape in Los Angeles retrial, months after jurors couldn't come to a unanimous decision in first trial Actor Danny Masterson arrives at Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center in Los Angeles, CA on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 with wife Bijou Phillips for his retrial for allegedly raping three women between 2001 and 2003. Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images On Wednesday, a Los Angeles jury found actor Danny Masterson guilty on 2 charges of rape. It was a retrial after the last one ended with a mistrial in late November 2022. Four women testified Masterson raped them, and three said the Church of Scientology silenced them. A Los Angeles jury convicted"That 70's Show" actor Danny Masterson of two counts of rape on Wednesday, in a re-trial of an explosive case. Jurors deliberated for close to 8 days longer than the first trial finding that Masterson was guilty of two counts of rape against two women. Masterson's wife Bijou Phillips sobbed audibly when the verdict was announced, according to The Los Angeles Times. Jurors were hung on a third count of rape, according to the Times. Last year, during Masterson's first trial, on November 30, jurors couldn't come to a unanimous conclusion on any of the three charges. This time around, prosecutors relied more on the argument that Masterson had drugged the women he raped, per The Associated Press. Masterson faces up to 30 years in prison at a later sentencing date, according to NBC News. Over the course of both trials, three charging witnesses all former Scientologists testified that Masterson, a prominent Scientologist, raped them between 2001 and 2003, and that Scientology later silenced their accusations. In the re-trial, jurors found Masterson guilty of raping Jane Doe 1, as well as Jane Doe 2. "I am experiencing a complex array of emotions relief, exhaustion, strength, sadness knowing that my abuser, Danny Masterson, will face accountability for his criminal behavior," Jane Doe 2 said in a statement sent to Insider. "I am disappointed that he was not convicted on all counts, but take great solace in the fact that he, the Church of Scientology, and others, will have to fully account for their abhorrent actions in civil court." According to Deadline, a fourth woman who alleged that Masterson raped her in Toronto in 2000 testified as a prior bad acts witness. Since the rape allegations against Masterson became public in 2017, Masterson and his legal team have denied them, calling them "outrageous." He pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges brought by the Los Angeles District Attorney in 2020. The retrial tailed key elements of the last trial, with the women delivering pained testimony about traumatic incidents with Masterson and the invisible hand of the Church of Scientology. Throughout the two trials, the Church of Scientology has vehemently denied the allegations and any involvement. "There is no truth to the allegations about the Church. The District Attorney is shamefully centering his prosecution on the defendant's religion. With regard to the Church, the DA has elicited answers from the Jane Does and had them state as fact allegations about the Church which are categorically untrue," spokesperson Karin Pouw told Insider last year. Philip Cohen, Masterson's defense attorney, centered on alleged "inconsistencies" in the women's stories, and the timeline of their allegations. Powerhouse attorney Shawn Holley also served as co-counsel on Masterson's team in the retrial. Jurors were hung 8-4 on the rape count related to Jane Doe 3, Masterson's ex-girlfriend, per the Times. "I thank the jury for its service, and while I'm encouraged that Danny Masterson will face some criminal punishment, I am devastated that he has dodged criminal accountability for his heinous conduct against me," Jane Doe 3 said in a statement. "Despite my disappointment in this outcome, I remain determined to secure justice, including in civil court, where I, along with my co-plaintiffs, will shine a light on how Scientology and other conspirators enabled and sought to cover up Masterson's monstrous behavior." The three accusers from Masterson's criminal case have a paused civil suit filed in 2019 which lists Scientology as a defendant, alleging that the Church has harassed and stalked them since Los Angeles Police started investigating Masterson in 2016. The accounts in the civil lawsuit led to three criminal charges of forcible rape filed by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office in 2020. Read the original article on Insider Police Amid the ongoing headlining news in Mississippi, one family is taking legal action after a cop shot an 11-year-old. On Tuesday (May 30), Nakala Murry, the mother of Aderrien Murry, filed a lawsuit in the federal court, per CNN. The news comes after a police officer responding to Aderriens 911 call shot him in the chest. According to the suit, the defendants in the case include the City of Indianola, Mississippi, its police chief, and multiple cops, including Greg Capers, who the Indianola Police Department confirmed shot Aderrien. Nakala is seeking at least $5 million in damages claiming excessive force and negligence, among other counts. The lawsuit claimed Capers failed to assess the situation before displaying and/or discharging his firearm. It later added, The injuries endured by the defendants could have been avoided if defendants would have acquired the adequate training on how to provide proper assistance and care. When Indianola Mayor Ken Featherstone spoke with the outlet, he stated he hopes the kid gets justice. But the mayor also noted he couldnt support firing Capers without knowing all the facts first, including seeing the bodycam footage of the incident. He spoke with Murrys family and shared he looks forward to making everyone whole. Regarding the lawsuit, he noted, Im sure were insured. But we dont have $5 million sitting there. As mentioned in a previous report, on May 20, at around 4 a.m., Nakala asked her son to call 911 after the irate father of one of her other children showed up. When the officer arrived, he drew his gun and instructed everyone to come outside, Nakala stated. The responding policeman reportedly shot the 11-year-old in the chest as he went across the hallway to the living room. After first responders took Aderrien to the hospital, he received a chest tube, and doctors placed him on a ventilator. His mother revealed he had a collapsed lung, fractured ribs, and a lacerated liver because of the shooting. Police arrested the irate father but let him go since Nakala did not file a police report. The hospital has since released Aderrien. Trending Stories Veterans advocates are scrambling to fix funding and programming shortfalls caused by the expiration of pandemic assistance for homeless veterans earlier this month, a problem they believe could be avoided with a quick vote by Congress. But plans to extend that extra relief are still stalled in the House and Senate amid the ongoing debt limit fight and other federal budget talks. With no clear end in sight, the delay has the potential to undo some of the progress made in recent years in reducing homelessness among veterans. Right now were only getting about 70% of what it actually costs to provide our services to veterans, so weve already had to start cutting back, said Akilah Templeton, chief executive officer of Veterans Village of San Diego, which provides a range of housing support programs and employment training efforts. Before the pandemic support, it was already a patchwork quilt of funding. And now were returning to that, and its scary. The number of homeless vets dropped sharply over the last two years Templeton and more than 850 other staffers from non-profits across the country were in Washington this week for the annual National Coalition for Homeless Veterans conference. The loss of the pandemic money was a major point of concern for most of the attendees, given the impact theyre already seeing. Some of these groups are seeing a drop of $60,000 or more a month in revenue, said Kathryn Monet, chief executive officer of NCHV. And so, theyre left trying to figure out, Do I cut social workers? Do I lose out on security deposits? They are really hard choices. When the national emergency related to the coronavirus pandemic officially ended on May 11, so did a host of federal emergency authorities designed to ease problems created or exacerbated by local quarantine efforts and their lingering economic impacts. The list included several services targeted specifically at veterans experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing stable shelter: free rides to Veterans Affairs clinics, access to telehealth medical services and increased financial assistance for rent costs. Veterans Affairs officials had lobbied alongside advocates to extend those protections beyond the May 11 date, but to no avail. Overnight, daily support stipends dropped by more than half in some regions, leaving non-profits scrambling to find new money or new housing options to keep veterans sheltered. Democratic and Republican lawmakers have said they are still working on the issue, but House rules regarding budgeting offsets have complicated discussions so far even though an extension is estimated to cost less than $10 million a year. Supporters are hopeful that once the debt limit fight is settled and fiscal 2024 budget work resumes, the issue can be revived. But for now, theyre left with less money next month to deal with the same problems they faced last month. The Department of Housing and Urban Development late last year announced that the number of veterans experiencing homelessness sank more than 11% from the start of 2020 to early 2022, a significant decrease after several years of limited progress. Advocates attributed that success in part to expanded focus and funding during the early days of the pandemic in America. But the positive HUD report still estimates there are about 33,000 veterans without stable shelter on any given night. Housing experts worry that without adequate resources, that number could head higher this year. We saw during COVID that an influx of resources can dramatically change the way things are done, but now those resources are going away, Donald Whitehead Jr., executive director of the National Coalition for the Homeless, told the conference crowd on Wednesday. We have to keep making the case for why we need them again. Conference organizers urged attendees to lobby lawmakers on the issue while in town and once they return home. But for Templeton, that work has to take place at the same time her organization makes cuts to keep operations running as much as possible. Were buckling down, trying to figure it out, she said. But with any cuts, the program suffers. And you dont want that to lead to poor outcomes in the community. At age 14, he killed a man in a Columbus car break-in. Now a judge has decided his fate The name Raymond Leon Richmond III didnt make the news when Richmond killed a man outside a Columbus nightclub while breaking into the victims car. His identity was withheld because Richmond was only 14, a juvenile under Georgia law, when he shot Samuel Devoid London in a parking lot at the Foxy Lady, a lounge at 3023 Victory Drive. Police said Richmond was with other teens who went there to steal from cars, and London caught him going through Londons 2019 Jeep Compass around 2 a.m., June 5, 2020. Richmond shot him as they fought over the vehicle, investigators said, and London, 40, died in the hospital about an hour later. Now Richmonds 17, legally an adult who pleaded guilty Wednesday to voluntary manslaughter before Judge John Martin, who sentenced him to 30 years in prison with 22 to serve and the rest on probation. Richmond pleaded guilty also to illegally entering an auto and to using a gun to commit a crime. Superior Court Judge John Martin sentenced Raymond Leon Richmond III to 30 years in prison with 22 to serve and the rest on probation during a Wednesday morning hearing in Columbus, Georgia. 05/31/2023 Mike Haskey/mhaskey@ledger-enquirer.com His public defender, Steve Craft, said psychological evaluations revealed Richmond has an intellectual disability, so he pleaded guilty but intellectually disabled to the charges. The case was assigned to a special prosecutor, Christopher George of the Prosecuting Attorneys Council of Georgia, because District Attorney Stacey Jackson had a conflict of interest, having represented one of Richmonds codefendants back when Jackson was in private practice. George wanted Martin to sentence Richmond to the maximum of 30 years in prison, arguing Richmond posed a public safety risk, having armed himself to commit car burglaries with his cohorts. What were they going to get? George asked. Nothing worth taking a life over. Kids and car break-ins Craft asked Martin to consider Richmonds age at the time and his disability, which left him vulnerable to bad influences. Richmonds father repeatedly has been in and out of prison over the years, leaving his son to find other mentors, the attorney said. Outside court, Craft said the people with whom Richmond associated loosely formed a street gang that used juveniles for car break-ins, because underage offenders typically face lighter penalties in juvenile court. A minor could be given a month in a juvenile detention center for illegally entering a car, Craft said, but an adult could get five years in prison. Columbus police also have said gangs commonly employ juveniles for certain crimes, and state legislators this year increased penalties for gang members who recruit minors. Richmond and his alleged accomplices fled after Londons shooting, but left incriminating evidence behind. George said Richmond had wrapped a white T-shirt over his hand to open car doors, so he wouldnt leave fingerprints. After he fell atop London and fired the pistol as the two struggled, he discarded the T-shirt and the gun as he ran. On the T-shirt, police found DNA evidence matching Richmond, George said. He helped everyone Speaking Wednesday on behalf of Londons family, sister Eunice London said her brother was a joyful man who brightened everyones mood. His smile was very contagious, and if you were upset, he knew what to say to brighten your day, she said. Sam could melt the coldest hearts. He helped everyone as if he were their family. He was born with sickle-cell anemia, and he would suffer severely as a result, she said, but he did not let that discourage him. His faith in the Lord helped him whenever he was sick, she said. Whenever you spoke to him, you could hear the joy in his voice. Sam would always be smiling. Other suspects Four other suspects in Londons homicide still face charges of felony murder and entering an auto. They are: Cecil Brian Berguin III, 20. Victrez Jaequan Thomas, 20. Santonio Lamar Williams, 18. Jyquarious D. Varner, 17. Like Richmond, Varner was only 14 when the shooting occurred. Williams was 15, at the time, and both Berguin and Thomas were 17, court records show. A year ago, Horry County rescinded its Pride Month support. What will happen in 2023? A year after retracting its support for Pride Month, it remains unclear if the Horry County Council plans to take on the matter again. Adam Hayes, a member of Myrtle Beachs human rights commission and Grand Strand PRIDE, said he submitted a proclamation for the council to consider several weeks ago but had not heard back. Im assuming they chose not to respond, which would be my guess after last year, he said. Last May, the council approved a resolution recognizing June as Pride Month but then reversed course at a later meeting after several members said they hadnt thoroughly read the agenda before voting. It was included under items for consent, which typically cover routine items that only need a single vote, like proclamations. The countys reversal prompted outrage from the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, with more than 150 people turning out for a protest in front of county headquarters. Council Chairman Johnny Gardner did not respond to a Sun News inquiry about whether the Pride Month resolution appears on the June 6 agenda, which will be made public on June 2. On May 23, Myrtle Beach carried on its long tradition of acknowledging Pride Month with a proclamation handed to Hayes and Grand Strand PRIDE co-founder Terry Livingston. WHEREAS, Pride Month also is a platform for raising awareness of the discrimination and marginalization that the LGBTQ+ community has faced and continues to face, and for supporting their rights and achievements, the resolution says in part. Livingston gave the council rainbow flags before thanking them for adopting the resolution. There has been an unprecedented number of legislation going on across the country this year, but I am just so happy that my hometown of Myrtle Beach, instead of trying to divide the citizens, yall try to bring us together and for that I am very grateful, he said. Myrtle Beach is ranked as one of South Carolinas most LGBTIA+-friendly cities Nonprofit think tank Movement Advancement Project ranks South Carolina a -2.5 out of 43.5 on its equality profile. A 2019 UCLA Williams Institute of Law study estimated that roughly 3.5 percent of the states population is LGBT or 137,000. And a February 2020 Campaign for Southern Equality report found above-average rates of anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation among its 404 respondents. Many said they delayed or avoided seeking health care and mental health services for fear of judgment or high out-of-pocket costs. Real estate website Movoto, however, puts Myrtle Beach near the top in its list of South Carolinas most LGBT-friendly communities, crediting the citys large pride festival and anti-discrimination ordinances in place locally. Other cities have been provided a draft version of Myrtle Beachs Pride Month resolution Hayes said he sent boilerplate versions of the Myrtle Beach resolution to Conway, North Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach, but also hadnt gotten verification on whether it will end up in front of their councils. Surfside Beach has approved dozens of resolutions since 2012, according to its website, but never for Pride Month. Last week, town councilman Michael Drake was rebuked by Mayor Bob Hellyer and other officials after a Facebook exchange with a gay man. Drake plumbed through Drew Blake-Nesbitts profile and reposted a picture of him kissing his husband that he called creepy. A day after The Sun News reported on the matter, the town distanced itself from Drakes remarks. Though the Mayor and Council are still reviewing the circumstances surrounding the controversy, the comments and actions of Councilmen Drake were made in his personal capacity and do not represent views or policies of the Government of the Town of Surfside Beach, the statement said. The 18th season of Americas Got Talent premiered May 30 with a touching tribute to one of the most well-known acts in the shows history. South Africas Mzansi Youth Choir performed Its OK, a song by Season 16 contestant Nightbirde, who died from cancer in 2022. One of the choirs 17 members said they wanted to compete on the show because it has the power to inspire and give hope to the people. That proved prophetic, since they earned a standing ovation when they finished their audition. What a wonderful tribute to a beautiful person, host Terry Crews said backstage. After the performance, judge Heidi Klum mentioned the song came from Nightbirde. Born Jane Marczewski, the singer first made a name for herself when she revealed she had been battling cancer for years during her AGT audition in 2021. She later dropped out of the show for health reasons. The choir easily won over the shows judges. It has a very special meaning in my heart, Klum said about Its OK, while complimenting the choir's performance. That was the perfect AGT audition, Sofia Vergara said. Ill always remember Nightbirde and to see that it touched people on the other side of the globe unbelievable, Howie Mandel said. You deserve so much more than a yes and to be here. You deserve a thank you. One of the choir members said they recorded the song after hearing Nightbirde sing it on AGT, noting that they were surprised when she responded so beautifully to it. Nightbirde remains a beloved part of the This song has been such a pillar of strength for us as a choir, through difficult times, she said. We just want to continue her legacy and thats why we chose this song. A visibly moved Simon Cowell fought back tears. I know how much this wouldve meant to her. It would, he said. Right until the end, she was so passionate about sharing her music and this has gone all over the world and youve come back here with the most amazing tribute. It was just breathtaking. The audience then started chanting, Golden Buzzer! That prompted Cowell to say how they have discussed letting the audience have a say in the auditions by giving them the power to use the Golden Buzzer. They all agreed. This is for you. This is for you, Cowell said pointing to the choir and then the audience. This is for Jane. All four judges and Crews then pushed the buzzer, advancing the group to the next round, sparking a frenzy of excitement and cheers. We never expected a reception like this, Jannie Zaaiman, the founder and director of Mzansi Youth Choir, told People. We had hoped we would make it through to the next round, but this was an absolute spectacular experience for the choristers, who handled the pressure with such poise and grace ... We are immensely proud of them for this extraordinary achievement. Mitch Marczewski Jr., the older brother of Nightbirde, was also stunned by the choirs version of his sisters song, according to People. It was simply amazing to see, he said. AGT did an incredible job with Janes song and I was deeply moved by their performance. I didnt think anyone could cover Janes song on AGT, but they proved me wrong. This article was originally published on TODAY.com One of the so-called "godfathers" of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has said he would have prioritised safety over usefulness had he realised the pace at which it would evolve. Prof Yoshua Bengio told the BBC he felt "lost" over his life's work. The computer scientist's comments come after experts in AI said it could lead to the extinction of humanity. Prof Bengio, who has joined calls for AI regulation, said he did not think militaries should be granted AI powers. He is the second of the so-called three "godfathers" of AI, known for their pioneering work in the field, to voice concerns about the direction and the speed at which it is developing. AI describes the ability of computers to perform tasks so complex, they have previously required human intelligence to complete. A recent example has been the development of AI-powered chatbots, like ChatGPT, which appear to give human-like responses to questions. This has led to planned European Union legislation on AI. And on Wednesday, the bloc's technology chief, Margrethe Vestager, said a voluntary code of conduct for AI could be created "within the next weeks". 'Bad actors' Some fear that advanced computational ability could be used for harmful purposes, such as the development of deadly new chemical weapons. Prof Bengio told the BBC he was concerned about "bad actors" getting hold of AI, especially as it became more sophisticated and powerful. "It might be military, it might be terrorists, it might be somebody very angry, psychotic. And so if it's easy to program these AI systems to ask them to do something very bad, this could be very dangerous. "If they're smarter than us, then it's hard for us to stop these systems or to prevent damage," he added. Prof Bengio admitted those concerns were taking a personal toll on him, as his life's work, which had given him direction and a sense of identity, was no longer clear to him. "It is challenging, emotionally speaking, for people who are inside [the AI sector]," he said. "You could say I feel lost. But you have to keep going and you have to engage, discuss, encourage others to think with you." The Canadian has signed two recent statements urging caution about the future risks of AI. Some academics and industry experts have warned that the pace of development could result in malicious AI being deployed by "bad actors" to actively cause harm - or choosing to inflict harm by itself. Fellow "godfather" Dr Geoffrey Hinton has also signed the same warnings as Prof Bengio, and retired from Google recently saying he regretted his work. The third "godfather", Prof Yann LeCun, who along with Prof Bengio and Dr Hinton won a prestigious Turing Award for their pioneering work, has said apocalyptic warnings are overblown. Twitter and Tesla owner Elon Musk has also voiced his concerns. "I don't think AI will try to destroy humanity, but it might put us under strict controls," he said recently at an event hosted by the Wall Street Journal. "There's a small likelihood of it annihilating humanity. Close to zero but not impossible." Prof Bengio told the BBC all companies building powerful AI products needed to be registered. "Governments need to track what they're doing, they need to be able to audit them, and that's just the minimum thing we do for any other sector like building aeroplanes or cars or pharmaceuticals," he said. "We also need the people who are close to these systems to have a kind of certification... we need ethical training here. Computer scientists don't usually get that, by the way." But not everybody in the field believes AI will be the downfall of humans - others argue that there are more imminent problems which need addressing. Dr Sasha Luccioni, research scientist at the AI firm Huggingface, said society should focus on issues like AI bias, predictive policing, and the spread of misinformation by chatbots which she said were "very concrete harms". "We should focus on that rather than the hypothetical risk that AI will destroy humanity," she added. There are already many examples of AI bringing benefits to society. Last week an AI tool discovered a new antibiotic, and a paralysed man was able to walk again just by thinking about it, thanks to a microchip developed using AI. But this is juxtaposed with fears about the far-reaching impact of AI on countries' economies. Firms are already replacing human staff with AI tools, and it is a factor in the current strike under way by scriptwriters in Hollywood. "It's never too late to improve," says Prof Bengio of AI's current state. "It's exactly like climate change. "We've put a lot of carbon in the atmosphere. And it would be better if we hadn't, but let's see what we can do now." Follow Zoe Kleinman on Twitter @zsk Get in touch banner What are your questions about artificial intelligence? New Zealand's national airline wants travelers to weigh themselves during check-in for the next month Getty Images Air New Zealand Air New Zealand passengers may now have to consider two sets of scales when they're flying. The country's national airline is requesting passengers volunteer to weigh themselves, as well as their luggage, before boarding international flights from Auckland International Airport, under instructions from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The weighing-in procedure is part of a month-long survey, which began on May 29 and aims to help calculate the weight carried on planes information required by the CAA from airlines every five years. "We weigh everything that goes on the aircraft from the cargo to the meals onboard, to the luggage in the hold," Alastair James, the airlines load control improvement specialist said in a statement. "For customers, crew and cabin bags, we use average weights, which we get from doing this survey." Related: 'Unethical' or Brilliant? This Viral Plane 'Hack' Punishes Passengers Who Recline Their Seat Getty Images Air New Zealand James shared more details about the survey's importance in an interview with the Today show. Its a regulatory requirement for us to know the weight of everything that goes on the aircraft and theres a good reason for that, he said. "To fly safely and efficiently, we need to be able to calculate the weight and balance of the aircraft each and every time we fly. Regular check-in won't be altered for those taking part, as passengers volunteering for the survey will also have to place their luggage on a separate scale before boarding. 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. Air New Zealand said it hopes 10,000 passengers will weigh in before boarding flights. Anyone departing from Auckland in the next month need not worry about details of their BMI being shared either, as the weight will be recorded anonymously. Despite this, the weight-related survey has received backlash, with some Today viewers saying they felt it was a "violation of privacy." We know stepping on the scales can be daunting. We want to reassure our customers theres no weight shown on the screen, its just captured and goes straight into the computer, James added. Related: Man Who Opened Emergency Door During South Korea Flight Allegedly Said He Felt Suffocated NBC News aviation expert John Cox also insisted Wednesday that data collected by Air New Zealand could offer "wide-ranging benefits" for airlines globally. "Air New Zealand and the New Zealand regulators are in fact helping the industry, Cox told NBC News. I think you may see some other airlines utilize this at some point in the future." This is not the first time Air New Zealand has weighed its airline passengers. In 2021, a similar survey was carried out on domestic passengers, though the COVID-19 pandemic prevented the airline from collecting data from international travelers. Air New Zealands new survey runs from May 29 to July 2. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Airline begins asking passengers to weigh in before flights for new study Airline begins asking passengers to weigh in before flights for new study An airline is asking passengers to weigh in before flights in a survey that will take place for nearly five weeks and involve more than 10,000 passengers. Air New Zealand will be asking over 10,000 of is customers traveling internationally on their flights between May 29 and July 2 to weigh in before they travel on the airline. MORE: Young couple shot dead by their landlord over alleged tenant dispute, police say The survey is essential to the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft and is a Civil Aviation Authority requirement, according to a statement from Air New Zealand announcing the survey. "We weigh everything that goes on the aircraft from the cargo to the meals onboard, to the luggage in the hold, Air New Zealand Load Control Improvement Specialist Alastair James explained. For customers, crew and cabin bags, we use average weights, which we get from doing this survey." PHOTO: A woman stands on scales to be weighed ahead of a flight in Auckland, New Zealand on May 29, 2023. (Air New Zealand via AP) This isnt the first time the airline has done a similar survey. Customers on Air New Zealand's domestic network were weighed in 2021. Now that international travel is back up and running, it's time for international flyers to weigh in, the airline said in their statement. But there is one big caveat that should put the thousands of customers who are asked to weigh in at ease. MORE: Assailant pours gas on man and lights him on fire after verbal altercation escalated: Police "We know stepping on the scales can be daunting. We want to reassure our customers there is no visible display anywhere. No one can see your weight -- not even us! It's completely anonymous," said James. "It's simple, it's voluntary, and by weighing in, you'll be helping us to fly you safely and efficiently, every time." The planned survey will be taking place at the entrance to the gate lounge of certain Air New Zealand flights departing from Auckland International Airport beginning this past Monday. PHOTO: A woman hands her bag to a staff member to be weighed ahead of a flight in Auckland, New Zealand, on May 29, 2023. (Air New Zealand via AP) Airline begins asking passengers to weigh in before flights for new study originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Al Pacino is gearing up to be a dad of four. The "Scarface" actor, 83, and his girlfriend Noor Alfallah are expecting a baby, Pacino's rep Stan Rosenfield confirmed to USA TODAY Wednesday. Alfallah, 29, is currently eight months pregnant. Pacino and the "La Petite Mort" producer have been linked since April 2022 after the pair were spotted leaving a restaurant together in Venice, California. This April, Alfallah posted a photo with Pacino on her Instagram of the two visiting the Gagosian art gallery in New York City. Robert De Niro welcomes seventh child at 79, shares name and first photo Pacino has three other kids, including daughter Julie Marie, 33, with his ex-girlfriend Jan Tarrant and 22-year-old twins Anton and Olivia with ex Beverly D'Angelo. This is Alfallah's first child. She was previously linked to Mick Jagger, who she dated for over a year before they split in 2018. Pacino has discussed the impact he hopes to have on his children, especially having experienced his father leave his household when he was 2 years old. "It's the missing link, so to speak," he told The New Yorker in 2014. "Having has helped a lot. I consciously knew that I didn't want to be like my dad. I wanted to be there. I have three children. I'm responsible to them. I'm a part of their life." Al Pacino's girlfriend Noor Alfallah is pregant with the couple's first child. 'I gave Harrison Ford a career': Al Pacino reveals he turned down 'Star Wars' role of Han Solo "The Godfather" actor said when he's not able to be in his children's lives due to work, "it's upsetting to me and them." "When I do a movie, and I come back, Im stunned for the first twenty minutes. These people are asking me to do things for them? Huh?" Pacino said of his kids. "Im not being waited on? Wait a minute. Uh-oh, its about them! That action satisfies. I like it." Pacino's latest addition to his family comes weeks after his longtime friend and former co-star Robert De Niro welcomed his seventh child. De Niro reacted to Pacino's news on the "Today" show Thursday. "(Pacino's) a few years older than me, God bless him," he said, before discussing the difference in parenting now versus when he was younger. Robert De Niro opens up about recently welcoming his seventh child, how fatherhood is at this stage, and reacts to Al Pacino also expecting a baby. pic.twitter.com/UAgFGIHCES TODAY (@TODAYshow) June 1, 2023 De Niro's representative Stan Rosenfield confirmed the baby's birth to USA TODAY on May 9. Days later, the 79-year-old actor showed off the first photo of the baby girl, named Gia Virginia, on "CBS Mornings," also confirming she was born April 6 and is shared with his partner Tiffany Chen. De Niro's other children range in age from 11 to 51. Watch: Al Pacino, Robert De Niro discuss their famed 'Heat' face-off Previous: Al Pacino's ex, Meital Dohan, discusses age gap, jokes he 'doesn't like to spend money' Contributing: Morgan Hines, Elise Brisco This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Al Pacino expecting child with Noor Alfallah, Robert De Niro reacts Al Pacino will become a father for the fourth time, his representatives confirmed to Fox News Digital. The "Godfather" actor is expecting his first child with girlfriend Noor Alfallah, 29. Pacino, who turned 83 years old in April, has three kids: a daughter with his ex Jan Tarrant and twins with his ex, Beverly D'Angelo. ROBERT DE NIRO, 79, WELCOMES HIS 7TH CHILD Al Pacino will become a dad once again at the age of 83. Alfallah shared a snap with Pacino on Instagram in April as they perused a friend's art gallery in New York the first photo of the couple to make it on her social media grid. She was previously linked to Mick Jagger and billionaire Nicholas Berggruen. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Earlier this month, D'Angelo posted rare photos of their children and reflected on her "unique" relationship with Pacino. MICHELLE PFEIFFER TURNS 65: AL PACINO CAST HER IN SCARFACE OVER THIS BLOODY MOVIE "My story with Al began 27 years ago, two artists meeting, falling in love. We lived together for seven years, had two children, broke up, but continued steadily on our journey as co parents and came to share our lives with a deeper kind of intimacy, honesty and acceptance than a traditional relationship would have allowed, (for us at least)," DAngelo captioned a video montage. Beverly admitted she was "deeply in love" with Pacino, and was "one hundred percent in," but the couple never married. They welcomed twins Olivia and Anton in 2001, and split in 2004. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER "As for me and Al, it is a unique and profound friendship between two artists that endures to this day, through thick and thin, 27 years now of doing it our way, and there you have it," she said. She was married to Italian duke Lorenzo Salviati when she met Pacino and unexpectedly fell in love with him. Beverly D'Angelo and Al Pacino dated for years, but were never married. Salviati wasn't jealous when she revealed her new love, but was instead mad that she found interest in an actor. After explaining it was in fact the "Scent of a Woman" star who claimed her heart, Salviati said, "Al Pacino, he's fantastic. I love him. We divorce!'" Pacino's best friend, Robert De Niro, recently welcomed his seventh child with girlfriend Tiffany Chen. The 79-year-old Oscar winner made the revelation while discussing parenthood and his new role in the comedy "About My Father" with ET Canada. This $3.1 million is a big win for the State of Alabama, said Alabama Rep. Terri Sewell, and will help ensure that faces and places of the Movement are never forgotten! Six notable sites for civil rights history in Alabama will benefit from a $3.1 million grant from the National Park Service. According to The Selma Times-Journal, the Historic Bethel Baptist Church Community Restoration Fund and the St. Paul United Methodist Church, both in Birmingham, will receive $750,000 each from the park services African American Civil Rights Grant Program. Democratic Alabama Rep. Terri Sewell poses on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. Sewell, who represents Alabamas 7th Congressional district, shared on Monday that six civil rights locations across the state will benefit from a $3.1 million grant from the National Park Service. (Photo by Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call) This $3.1 million is a big win for the State of Alabama, Democratic Alabama Rep. Terri Sewell said, and will help ensure that faces and places of the Movement are never forgotten! A $750,000 grant will also be provided to the Alabama Historical Commission for the renovation of the second floor of the Moore Building, as well as to the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church both in Montgomery for repairs and renovations. The city of Anniston will receive $74,800 for story mapping, formalization of operations and maintenance for its Anniston Civil Rights Trail, and the Alabama Historical Commission will receive an additional $75,000 for the Freedom Rides Museum Vintage Greyhound Bus Virtual Reality Experience. Each year, Im proud to lead the effort in Congress to increase funding for the National Park Services African American Civil Rights Grant Program, Sewell shared, The Times-Journal reported, to ensure that Americas civil rights history lives on. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post Alabama civil rights locations receive over $3 million in funding from National Park Service appeared first on TheGrio. London's Central Criminal Court, commonly known as the Old Bailey A Norwegian man and his associates appeared in a UK court Wednesday to answer charges over an alleged conspiracy involving "extreme body modifications" -- including castrations. Marius Gustavson, 45, pleaded not guilty at London's Old Bailey criminal court to causing grievous bodily harm with intent to three men in 2018 and 2019. But Jacob Crimi-Appleby, 22, pleaded guilty to the same charge after he admitted to freezing Gustavson's leg in one extreme ritual, which led to the limb being amputated. And Gustavson, who appeared in court by videolink from custody, admitted separate charges of making and distributing indecent videos of a child. Police say Gustavson was the ringleader of a group of men who filmed and uploaded extreme body procedures to his "eunuch maker" website, and subscribers paid to watch. They were said to be linked to a subculture where men become "nullos" - short for genital nullification - by having their penis and testicles removed. Two other men last month admitted to removing Gustavson's penis and nipple. The Norwegian's alleged right-hand man, Peter Wates, 66, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm. Other defendants who appeared by videolink and in the dock of the Old Bailey were not asked to enter pleas. Nine men in total were arrested in March during police raids in London, Scotland and south Wales, and there were 13 victims in all, according to the Metropolitan Police. Judge Mark Lucraft set a further plea hearing for June 30, and the case is expected to go to trial at the Old Bailey in March next year. jit/phz/rox Ama Ata Aidoo won many literary awards including the 1992 Commonwealth Writers Prize for her book Changes One of Africa's most-celebrated authors and playwrights, Ghanaian Ama Ata Aidoo, has died aged 81. A renowned feminist, she depicted and celebrated the condition of African women in works such as The Dilemma of a Ghost, Our Sister Killjoy and Changes. She opposed what she described as a "Western perception that the African female is a downtrodden wretch". She also served as education minister in the early 1980s but resigned when she could not make education free. In a statement, her family said "our beloved relative and writer" passed away after a short illness, requesting privacy to allow them to grieve. A university professor, Ata Aidoo won many literary awards for her novels, plays and poems, including the 1992 Commonwealth Writers Prize for Changes, a love story about a statistician who divorces her first husband and enters into a polygamous marriage. Her work, including plays like Anowa, have been read in schools across West Africa, along with works of other greats like Wole Soyinka and Chinua Achebe. When asked by BBC HARDTalk's Zeinab Badawi in 2014 if she regarded herself as a writer with a mission, she replied: "In retrospect, I suppose I could describe myself as a writer with a mission. But I never was aware that I had a mission when I started to write. "People sometimes question me, for instance, why are your women so strong? And I say, that is the only woman I know." She was a major influence on the younger generation of writers, including Nigeria's awarding-winning Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. In a piece about the Ghanaian in The Africa Report publication in 2011, Adichie wrote: "When I first discovered Ama Ata Aidoo's work - a slim book on a dusty shelf in our neighbour's study in Nsukka [in south-eastern Nigeria] - I was stunned by the believability of her characters, the sureness of her touch and what I like to call, in a rather clunky phrase, the validating presence of complex femaleness. "Because I had not often seen this complex femaleness in other African books I had read and loved, mine was a wondrous discovery: of Anowa, tragic and humane and many dimensional, in Aidoo's play set in the 1800s in Fantiland; of Sissie, the self-assured, perceptive main character of the ambitious novel Our Sister Killjoy, who wryly recounts her experiences in Germany and England in the 1960s; or of the varied female characters in No Sweetness Here, my favourite of Aidoo's books." Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy included her powerful criticism of colonialism and ongoing exploitation of Africa's resources in his song Monsters You Made in 2020: "Since we met you people 500 years ago. Look at us, we've given everything. You are still taking. In exchange for that, we have got nothing. Nothing. And you know it. But don't you think that this is over now? Over where? Is it over?" Ama Ata Aidoo was born in a small village in Ghana's central Fanti-speaking region in 1942. Her father had opened the first school in the village and was a strong influence on her. At the age of 15 she decided that she wanted to be a writer and within just four years, had achieved that ambition after she was encouraged to enter a competition. "I won a short story competition but learned about it only when I opened the newspaper that had organised it, and saw the story had been published on its centre pages and realised the name of the author of that story in print was mine," Ata Aidoo once said as she looked back at her career. "I believe these moments were crucial for me because ... I had articulated a dream... it was a major affirmation for me as a writer, to see my name in print." She went on to study literature at the University of Ghana and became a lecturer, publishing her first play in 1964. After her 18 month-foray into politics she went into self-imposed exile in Zimbabwe for a time and became a full-time writer. Close-up of the base of an Amazon Echo smart speaker using the Alexa service Amazon is to pay $25m (20m) to settle allegations that it violated children's privacy rights with its Alexa voice assistant. The company agreed to pay the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) after it was accused of failing to delete Alexa recordings at the request of parents. It was found to have kept hold of sensitive data for years. Amazon's doorbell camera unit Ring will also pay out after giving employees unrestricted access to customers' data. Ring will pay $5.8m to authorities, according to a filing in federal court in the District of Columbia. According to the FTC complaint regarding Alexa, Amazon "prominently and repeatedly assured its users, including parents, that they could delete voice recordings collected" by the system. But the company did not do this, keeping data for years and using it unlawfully to help improve its Alexa algorithm, the complaint said. In a statement, Samuel Levine, director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, accused Amazon of "misleading parents, keeping children's recordings indefinitely, and flouting parents' deletion requests". The company "sacrificed privacy for profits", he added. Similarly, the FTC said Ring - which Amazon bought in 2018 - allowed "thousands of employees and contractors" to watch recordings of customers' private spaces. They were able to view and download customers' sensitive video data for their own purposes, the body said. Amazon told the BBC in a statement that "Ring promptly addressed the issues at hand on its own years ago, well before the FTC began its inquiry". But according to the complaint, one employee viewed thousands of video recordings belonging to female users of Ring cameras that "surveilled intimate spaces in their homes such as their bathrooms or bedrooms". The employee was only stopped once their actions were spotted by a colleague, it said. "Ring's disregard for privacy and security exposed consumers to spying and harassment," Mr Levine said. "The FTC's order makes clear that putting profit over privacy doesn't pay." Amazon said: "While we disagree with the FTC's claims regarding both Alexa and Ring, and deny violating the law, these settlements put these matters behind us." The company added that it will continue to invent more privacy features on behalf of customers. Amazon will have to pay more than $30 million in consumer refunds and fines for violating the privacy of customers who own Alexa and Ring devices under settlement agreements filed Wednesday. In one complaint, the Federal Trade Commission alleged that Amazon not only failed to delete the voice data of children at the request of their parents but also kept the recordings indefinitely in order to refine its algorithm. In another, the FTC accuses Ring now owned by Amazon of allowing its employees to access customers private videos and exposing them to hackers. In the first instance, Amazon violated federal protection laws, the FTC said. In the second, Rings actions committed egregious violations of users privacy. In a statement sent to USA TODAY, Amazon said the company takes its responsibilities to our customers and their families very seriously." While we disagree with the FTCs claims regarding both Alexa and Ring, and deny violating the law, these settlements put these matters behind us, the company said. Alexa allegations An Alexa-enabled speaker. Under the Alexa settlement, which needs approval by a federal court, the FTC and the Justice Department will require Amazon to delete inactive child accounts, some voice recordings and geolocation information, and Amazon won't be allowed to use such data for its algorithms, according to a news release announcing the settlement. "Amazon prominently and repeatedly assured its users, including parents, that they could delete voice recordings collected from its Alexa voice assistant and geolocation information collected by the Alexa app," the FTC said. "The company, however, failed to follow through on these promises when it kept some of this information for years and used the data it unlawfully retained to help improve its Alexa algorithm." The practices are in violation of the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act Rule, or COPPA, according to the FTC. "These allegations should set off alarms for any parent," FTC Commissioner Alvaro Bedoya said in a statement. "Amazon is not alone in apparently seeking to amass data to refine its machine-learning models; right now, with the advent of large language models, the tech industry as a whole is sprinting to do the same," Bedoya said. "Todays settlement sends a message to all those companies: Machine learning is no excuse to break the law ... The data you use to improve your algorithms must be lawfully collected and lawfully retained. Companies would do well to heed this lesson." In its statement to USA TODAY, Amazon said the company "built Alexa with strong privacy protections and customer controls, designed Amazon Kids to comply with COPPA, and collaborated with the FTC before expanding Amazon Kids to include Alexa." "As part of the settlement, we agreed to make a small modification to our already strong practices, and will remove child profiles that have been inactive for more than 18 months unless a parent or guardian chooses to keep them," the company said. Ring allegations The FTC's allegations against Ring stem from before Amazon purchased the California-based company in 2018. But Amazon is now responsible for making changes to Ring products and practices as a result of Wednesday's settlement. The FTC charged the home security camera company with allowing employees and contractors to access customers' private videos and enabling hackers to access their accounts, cameras and videos "by failing to implement basic privacy and security protections," according to a news release about that settlement. The Ring Video Doorbell (second-generation) maintains the same look and feel of other Ring doorbell cameras. Rings disregard for privacy and security exposed consumers to spying and harassment, Samuel Levine, director of the FTCs Bureau of Consumer Protection, said in a statement. The FTCs order makes clear that putting profit over privacy doesnt pay. Amazon said that Ring promptly addressed the issues at hand on its own years ago, well before the FTC began its inquiry." "Our focus has been and remains on delivering products and features our customers love while upholding our commitment to protect their privacy and security," the company said. What happens now? First, a federal court must approve both settlements. If and when that happens, Amazon will have to pay a $25 million civil penalty for the Alexa violations. The Ring violations will require $5.8 million to be used for consumer refunds. "The company also will be required to delete any customer videos and ... data collected from an individuals face that it obtained prior to 2018, and delete any work products it derived from these videos," the FTC said. "The proposed order also will require Ring to alert the FTC about incidents of unauthorized access or exposure of its customers videos and to notify consumers about the FTCs action." It's unclear when the court will issue a decision on whether to approve the settlements. More coverage from the USA TODAY Network What's behind Wednesday's Amazon walkout Amazon workers walk out in protest of company climate policies, return to office, job cuts Join our book club for some summer fun Read with USA TODAY's Book Club all summer long. Next up is T.J. Newman's 'Drowning' Ron DeSantis' White House race 'Florida of the north': DeSantis hitches his record to Iowa's to court GOP caucusgoers Gun violence in America South Carolina gas station owner chased, fatally shot 14-year-old, police say Trump's handling of classified documents Donald Trump recorded while talking about classified document he had on Iran, report says This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Amazon settles Alexa, Ring spying, data claim with $30 million Amazon corporate workers hold picket signs while participating in a walkout to protest the company's return-to-office policies, Wednesday, May 31, 2023, in Seattle. Organizers called attention to the climate impact of commutes, saying it runs counter to the company's "Climate Pledge" to be carbon neutral by the year 2040, as well as concerns about recent layoffs. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson) SEATTLE (AP) Telling executives to strive harder, hundreds of corporate Amazon workers protested what they decried as the company's lack of progress on climate goals and an inequitable return-to-office mandate during a lunchtime demonstration at its Seattle headquarters Wednesday. The protest came a week after Amazon's annual shareholder meeting and a month after a policy took effect returning workers to the office three days per week. Previously, team leaders were allowed to determine how their charges worked. The employees chanted their disappointment with the pace of the company's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint "Emissions climbing, time to act and urged Amazon to return authority to team leaders when it comes to work location. Wearing a black pirate hat and red coat, Church Hindley, a quality assurance engineer, said working from home allowed him to live a better, healthier life. Im out here because I refuse to just sit idly by while mandates are dictated from above down that dont make sense and hurt the planet, hurt families and individual lives," Hindley said. "And just to get us into a seat at the office for their tax incentives. In a statement, Amazon said it supported workers expressing opinions. As of Wednesday morning, organizers estimated more than 1,900 employees pledged to walk out around the world, with about 900 in Seattle. Many participated remotely, but hundreds gathered at the Amazon Spheres a four-story structure in downtown Seattle that from the outside looks like three connected glass orbs. Today looks like it might be the start of a new chapter in Amazon's history, when tech workers coming out of the pandemic stood up and said, We still want a say in this company and the direction of this company, said Eliza Pan, a former Amazon corporate employee and a co-founder of Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, a climate change advocacy group founded by Amazon workers. Amazon, which relies on fossil fuels to power the planes, trucks and vans that ship packages all over the world, has an enormous carbon footprint. Amazon workers have been vocal in criticizing some of the companys practices. In an annual statement to investors, Amazon said it aims to deploy 100,000 electric delivery vehicles by 2030 and reach net-zero carbon by 2040. But activists say the company must do more and commit to zero emissions by 2030. While we all would like to get there tomorrow, for companies like ours who consume a lot of power, and have very substantial transportation, packaging, and physical building assets, itll take time to accomplish, Brad Glasser, an Amazon spokesperson, said in a statement. Since more employees returned to the office, Glasser said, there has also been a good energy on the companys South Lake Union campus and at its other urban centers. More than 20,000 workers, however, signed a petition urging Amazon to reconsider the return-to-office mandate. In a February memo, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy said the company made its decision to return corporate employees to the office at least three days a week after observing what worked during the pandemic. Among other things, he said senior leadership watched how staff performed and talked to leaders at other companies. He said they concluded employees tended to be more engaged in person and collaborate more easily. In a note asking Amazon employees to pledge their participation in the walkout, organizers said the company must return autonomy to its teams, who know their employees and customers best, to make the best decision on remote, in-person, or hybrid work, and to its employees to choose a team which enables them to work the way they work best. Pamela Hayter, a project manager at Amazon, started an internal Slack channel called Remote Advocacy" after the company announced its return-to-office policy. Its 33,000 members share stories about how the return-to-office policy impacted their lives. I cannot believe that a company in this day and age, a company that claims to be an innovative leader in its space, would do that to one of its most precious resources its employees," Hayter said during the protest in Seattle, drawing applause from the crowd. The walkout follows widespread cost-cutting at Amazon, where layoffs have affected workers in advertising, human resources, gaming, stores, devices and Amazon Web Services, the companys cloud computing division. Like other tech companies, including Facebook parent Meta and Google parent Alphabet, Amazon ramped up hiring during the pandemic to meet the demand from homebound Americans who were increasingly shopping online to keep themselves safe from the virus. Amazons workforce, in warehouses and offices, doubled to more than 1.6 million in about two years. But demand slowed as the worst of the pandemic eased. The company last year began pausing or canceling warehouse expansion plans and has cut 27,000 jobs since November. Amazon's Ring will pay $5.8 million to settle FTC lawsuit alleging employees and third-party contractors had unrestricted access to customer videos Amazon's Ring will pay the FTC $5.8 million to settle a lawsuit over privacy violation claims. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Amazon's Ring will pay the FTC $5.8 million to settle a lawsuit claiming privacy violations, according to Wednesday court filings. The FTC alleged Ring employees and third-party contractors had unrestricted access to customers' video recordings. A Ring spokesperson denied the company violated the law, and told Insider the issues were addressed "years ago." Amazon-owned smart doorbell company Ring agreed to settle a lawsuit filed against the company by the Federal Trade Commission regarding privacy and data security concerns. Ring will pay $5.8 million to the FTC and implement a new system for data security as part of the settlement, according to court documents filed Wednesday. The surveillance company which was acquired by Amazon in 2018 in a $1 billion deal is used by millions as a form of security, but the FTC alleged Ring employees had unrestricted access to footage on customers' home security systems. "Ring promptly addressed these issues on its own years ago, well before the FTC began its inquiry," a Ring spokesperson told Insider. "While we disagree with the FTC's allegations and deny violating the law, this settlement resolves this matter so we can focus on innovating on behalf of our customers." In one instance, a Ring employee viewed thousands of recordings from at least 81 female Ring camera users between June and August 2017, CNN reported. "Only after the supervisor noticed that the male employee was only viewing videos of 'pretty girls' did the supervisor escalate the report of misconduct," the FTC alleged in its complaint, obtained by CNN. "Only at that point did Ring review a portion of the employee's activity and, ultimately, terminate his employment." The FTC further alleged that employees of a third-party contractor in Ukraine also had access to customer footage with little restrictions before July 2017, according to CNBC. In 2022, a US Senator probe found evidence that Amazon was handing over footage from Ring doorbells to police without consent from the owners of the cameras. "We will continue to prioritize privacy, security, and user control as we pursue and improve technologies to help achieve our mission of making neighborhoods safer," Amazon's vice president of public policy Brian Huseman said in a July 2022 statement. Read the original article on Business Insider Amber Heard has confirmed reports that she has relocated to Spain, in her first Spanish-language interview nearly one year after the Johnny Depp defamation trial. In a video posted to TikTok, the Aquaman star can be seen talking to reporters outside her home in Madrid, where she has reportedly moved with her two-year-old daughter, Oonagh Paige. Amber, how is your new life here in Madrid? the cameraman asked Heard in the clip. She replied in Spanish: I love Spain, so much. When asked whether she plans on staying in the Spanish capital, Heard responded: Yes, I hope so. Yes, yes, I love living here. As she waved ciao to the reporters, the Texas native added that she has film projects in the works. The cameraman then questioned whether she was attending the Cannes Film Festival where ex-husband Johnny Depp made his red carpet return to which she answered: I move on. Thats life. Following Heards highly publicised defamation trial against Depp last year, the Rum Diaries star reportedly quit Hollywood to move to Madrid. Shes bilingual in Spanish and is happy there, raising her daughter away from all the noise, a source told The Daily Mail earlier this month. I dont think she is in any hurry to return to work or to Hollywood, but she will probably come back when the time is right for the right project, they said. Heard has since been spotted multiple times in Spain, most recently shopping at a book fair in Spains capital city. Back in April, a source told People that Heard couldnt wait to leave the US with her daughter after the defamation trial reached a verdict last June. She has been living in Spain, where she gets more privacy. The trial was beyond stressful for her, and she just wanted to start fresh out of the country, the source said at the time. She is excited about working and filming again. She was exhausted and disappointed about the trial. She felt she was mistreated. They added, This is all behind her now, though. She has new energy and is focused on things that she loves. Depp sued Heard for $50m over a 2018 op-ed she wrote in the Washington Post that implied she was a victim of domestic abuse. Though she did not name Depp, he claimed her allegations have made it difficult for the actor to land movie roles. In June 2022, the jury determined Heard defamed Depp on all three counts and awarded him $10m (8.2m) in compensatory damages and $5m (4.1m) in punitive damages. Heard was awarded $2m (1.6m) in compensatory damages. Heard then filed a notice of appeal one month after the initial verdict, with her attorney citing errors made by the court. However, she decided to withdraw the appeal last December, calling the decision to settle with Depp very difficult, and something that had required a great deal of deliberation. Meanwhile, Depp made his return to the spotlight at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of his French-language film, Jeanne du Barry. On 16 May, the 59-year-old actor walked the red carpet ahead of the movie premiere, which marked Depps first lead role since he won last years defamation case against Heard. Despite his comeback, legions of Heard supporters took to social media to protest the Pirates of the Caribbean stars slow return to Hollywood by launching an online campaign with the hashtag #CannesYouNot to criticise both the festival and Depp. Photo Illustration by Erin OFlynn/The Daily Beast/GoFundMe and Getty Images An American family who moved to the countryside of Ecuador in search of their humble Shangri-La suffered a terrible tragedy when armed robbers invaded their farm. Francesca Williams, 44, a mother of three who grew up in California, was shot dead during the incident, according to her family. Her husband, Michael, was badly beaten and her elderly father, John, was stabbed several timesbut both survived the May 20 attack. I saw my grandpa on the floor with a strange man to the right, then I saw another man with my mom and she was scrambling after him, basically fighting him off, one of Williams daughters, Rachel, told Fox 31. Then I saw two sparks of a gun and heard gunshots. Michael Williams said he was tied up while the attackers ransacked the home. When they left, he went outside and found his wife mortally wounded. We ran down the hill and into our car and took her to emergency services, but it was too late for her, he said. She was shot in the back, he said. I think they saw Francesca as a threat, he added. The surviving family members have cleared out of their home in Vilcabamba out of fear and are planning on returning to Kremmling, Colorado, where they were living before going overseas. Francescas stepmother, Marianna Bacilla, who lives in Poway, California, called her the light of our life in a GoFundMe to raise money to bring her body back home to the U.S. and bury her with family. Fluent in four languages, she was a writer and illustrator. Francescas family lived on a small farm they were building themselves, raising chickens, goats, horses, pigs, ducks and guinea fowl, working toward a goal of sustainable farming, the GoFundMe said. It was their humble Shangri-La. Michael Williams said the family never felt unsafe on their remote property. We never would have imagined people were staking us out, he said. We are so far removed. Its a three-kilometer drive to and from. And to hike in and out, its incomprehensible. Rachel Williams said the bandits kept asking where the large aunt was and the family suspects they may have been looking for a different property. The State Department said Ecuador police are handling the investigation and that it is providing appropriate consular assistance. Bacilla said the family has endured horrendous trauma. Their Ecuadorian community is fully embracing themtaking care of them until they all fly home to the U.S., she wrote. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Amid fears of Chinese influence, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States has grown more powerful Business deals by foreign countries in the U.S. can be reviewed by the government for national security risks. Jason Leung for Unsplash, CC BY-SA A Chinese private equity firm, Primavera Capital Group, acquired the well-known test preparation company Princeton Review and an online learning platform, Tutor.com, in May 2023. The move, like other Chinese investments in tech and those that deal with personal information, is increasingly drawing the attention of politicians, the U.S. government and national security experts especially as tensions rise between the U.S. and China. What remains unclear, however, is if this seemingly routine business acquisition was reviewed by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S., which has authority to examine transactions involving foreign investment. The committee is largely prohibited from publicly disclosing any information filed with it, including if it is reviewing a transaction or if one was referred for review. While the committee is hardly a household name, its mission and expanding oversight have important implications for the U.S. economy and national security. Government oversight Congress strengthened the Committee on Foreign Investments powers, allowing it to scrutinize foreign investments in areas including cybersecurity, microelectronics and artificial intelligence. joshua sukoff for Unsplash.com, CC BY The Committee on Foreign Investment, a U.S. government interagency committee established in 1975 by President Gerald Ford, is tasked with studying and coordinating the implementation of policy on foreign investment in America. Investment by foreign countries greatly benefits the U.S., supporting 10.1% of the total labor force in 2019. Yet beginning in the 1980s, the federal government grew increasingly concerned about potentially harmful effects of foreign investment in the U.S. For example, if a foreign firm gets control of sensitive technologies, it could hurt national competitive advantages or even threaten national security. The primary objective of the committee is to review selected foreign investments and some real estate transactions by foreigners in the U.S. for their national security implications. Real estate transactions are generally scrutinized only when a transaction involves land that is either close to a military base or near an airport or seaport. Vetting foreign investments In the 1980s, political concern grew about Japanese investment and, specifically, the proposed purchase by Japanese computer giant Fujitsu of chipmaker Fairchild Semiconductor. The purchase of Fairfield Semiconductor was considered a sensitive industry, with potential defense applications, and prompted Congress in 1988 to pass the Exon-Florio amendment to the Defense Production Act of 1950. This amendment empowered the committee to not just review foreign investment deals but also to recommend rejecting them. Acting on its recommendation, a U.S. president could block a foreign transaction on national security grounds. For instance, in 1990, President George H. W. Bush voided the sale of MAMCO Manufacturing, which made metal parts for airplanes, to a Chinese agency, ordering the China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation to divest itself of the Seattle-based company. Foreign investments scrutinized by the U.S. can range from agricultural supply chains to biotechnology and quantum computing. adi goldstein for Unsplash.com In the context of a committee review, the term national security typically refers to foreign transactions that could cause significant outsourcing of jobs, a loss of control over agricultural supply chains, the sharing of sensitive technologies, control of a firm that satisfies defense needs, or the impairment of critical infrastructure. Strengthening the committee In 2006, Dubai Ports World, owned by the United Arab Emirates government, was about to gain managerial control of six U.S. ports in a major deal. Because of terrorism-related concerns, Sen. Chuck Schumer led a campaign against this proposal and the transaction was eventually called off, even though it had initially been approved by both the committee and President George W. Bush. Political concern scuttled a United Arab Emirates deal to manage U.S. ports and triggered greater power for the Committee on Foreign Investment. Damian Kamp for Unsplash.com, CC BY In the aftermath of this controversy, lawmakers passed the Foreign Investment and National Security Act in 2007, giving Congress greater oversight of the committee to ensure that potential acquisitions were adequately reviewed. In addition, it required the committee to scrutinize all foreign investment deals in which the pertinent overseas entity is either owned or controlled by a foreign power. National security concerns Over time, the Committee on Foreign Investment has been given more power to reflect and act on the political and economic concerns of the U.S. China, for example, appears to have global ambitions to replace the U.S.-led world order. As it gains geopolitical power, China has come under increased scrutiny by the U.S., with public support to get tough with China on economic issues. In response to these concerns, concrete steps have been taken by U.S. lawmakers to increase the scope of what the committee is able to do. In 2018, President Donald Trump signed the Foreign Investment Risk Review Modernization Act, giving the committee new powers over certain types of foreign investment that affect many Chinese investors. In the two-year period after the passage of the act, transaction registrations from Chinese investors fell by 43%. In 2022, President Joe Biden signed an executive order directing the committee to sharpen its investigation of foreign investment deals that could negatively affect cybersecurity, quantum computing, biotechnology and sensitive data. The Committee on Foreign Investment is now more powerful than it has ever been, and it is a gatekeeper on major foreign investment deals. The U.S. is not alone in examining foreign investment deals for national security implications. In recent times, the United Kingdom, the European Union and Australia have either created or strengthened existing regulations to more carefully police foreign investment deals, particularly those originating in China. It remains to be seen what the long-term implications of these expanding powers of the Committee on Foreign Investments in the U.S. will be. 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: Amitrajeet A. Batabyal, Rochester Institute of Technology. Read more: Amitrajeet A. Batabyal 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. A bomb shelter is urgently being built in the Kremlin's main hospital The bomb shelter is to be able to accommodate 800 people. Medical staff and employees will be able to take refuge in it. According to the contract specifications, the shelter should protect against an explosion blast wave, and it should also provide protection against radiation. It is to have both main and auxiliary rooms, several entrances, a freight elevator, and an emergency exit. The latter should have a lobby equipped with protective and airtight doors. Read also: Kremlin propaganda blames Elon Musk for drone attack on Moscow The facility will also have a sophisticated ventilation system capable of purifying the air "from gaseous weapons of mass destruction", aerosols, and combustion products. Moscow was attacked by drones early on May 30. The Russian Defense Ministry acknowledged the presence of eight UAVs in its airpsace, while social media reported that there were more than 10. Following an earlier drone attack in Moscow, Russian dictator Vladimir Putins press service claimed on May 3 that Ukraine had tried to strike at the Kremlin. Putin was working at his residence in Novo-Ogaryovo near Moscow at the time, said his spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, accusing Ukraine of "attempting" to assassinate Putin. Read also: Moscow is next, says Russian partisans who raided Belgorod Oblast Following the Kremlin's announcement, videos of the alleged drone attack began to circulate online, showing a drone apparently exploding and causing a fire on the dome of the Senate Palace in the Kremlin. Kyiv had no prior knowledge of potential overnight drone attacks on the Kremlin, said Sergii Nykyforov, the spokesperson for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, at the time. He said the development was a worrisome escalation, particularly considering that the May 9 V-E Day celebrations were upcoming at that time. 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 Colorado Springs Shooting (Colorado Springs Police Department) Anderson Lee Aldrich, the suspect in the Q Club shooting in Colorado Springs that left five dead and more than 30 others wounded, will soon enter a plea on more than 300 charges that could bring a life sentence. When the alleged shooters image was released, Americans were met by the visage of a bloated, beaten face covered in bruises. The patrons at the LGBT+ bar they allegedly attacked fought back, leaving Aldrich who claims to be nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns bloodied and immobilised when police arrived. The image was an outlier among mass shooter mug shots. Most mass shooters either die at the shooting or live to stare vacantly into a prison camera before they're locked away. Aldrich's showed the result of victims fighting back. Now, the alleged mass shooter will face potential consequences of a different sort the criminal sort as they face arraignment on 26 June. Booking photo of Anderson Lee Aldrich (Colorado Springs Police Department) Heres what we know about the case: Five dead and 30 wounded at Club Q On 19 November 2022, Aldrich allegedly walked into Q Club in Colorado Springs and opened fire with an AR-15-style rifle. That night, drag performer Del Lusional was hosting an alternative and punk show at the club a DJ was set to follow. But the gunshots rang out and Aldrich killed five, injuring 17 others with gunshot wounds, and causing incidental injury to 17 others. Eventually a US Navy sailor, Thomas James, grabbed the shooter's gun barrel, burning his hand in the process. The two struggled, and Mr James was shot, but he continued to fight against the shooter until Richard Fierro, an Army veteran who was visiting the club with his family, "went into combat mode" and tackled the shooter. He tossed away the shooter's rifle and grabbed their handgun, and began beating them with the firearm. Others including a woman in heels joined in to help ensure the shooter could injure no one else. I grabbed the gun out of his hand and just started hitting him in the head, over and over, Mr Fierro told The New York Times. Ex-Army captain Richard Fierro said he tackled and beat the Colorado Springs gunman as he stalked Club Q (Atrevida Beer Co) Police arrived and took the shooter into custody after accidentally mistaking Mr Fierro as a possible suspect and tackling him. He would later be hailed as a hero for likely stopping the shooting from becoming significantly more deadly. However, he did not escape unscathed on top of the likely trauma experiencing a mass shooting must cause, he also had to grieve with his daughter, whose long-time boyfriend, Raymond Green Vance, was shot and killed in the attack. Kelly Loving, Daniel Aston, Derrick Rump, and Ashley Paugh were also killed. Once Aldrich was named at the suspect in the shooting, the American media and the curious public did what they always do; they began a frantic search to learn as much as possible about the suspect and glean some sense of their motives. Who is Anderson Lee Aldrich? First the public learned that the shooter allegedly used they/them pronouns, according to their attorneys. This came as a surprise to long-time friend Xavier Kraus, who said Aldrich did not use they/them pronouns before the shooting, never identified as nonbinary, and allegedly regularly used racist and homophobic slurs. He told NBC News Aldrich's claim to be nonbinary is a "total troll on the community, and a total troll on the system." Another individual close to Aldrich made headlines next his father. CBS8 San Diego caught up with the father, Aaron Brink, who then gave the reporters a rambling, bizarre, and definitively bigoted interview. I was scared. I was like Oh my god, s***, is he gay? And hes not gay, Mr Brink said when asked about his son's alleged shooting at the LGBT+ nightclub. Mr Brink, a former MMA figure turned porn star, let out a mock sigh of relief after his comment. He went on to explain that he was a Mormon, and Mormons "don't do gay." He later said his child was mad at him, and the shooting was Aldrich wanting to "poke the old man." He then told reporters he was "sorry I let my son down" after condemning the shooting. But he also admitted to encouraging his child to use violence to solve problems. I praised him for violent behavior really early. I told him it works. It is instant and you'll get immediate results, he said. Aldrich appeared to have an interest in violence, based on a previous run-in with law enforcement and an FBI probe into their internet usage. In 2021, Aldrich livestreamed themselves having a standoff with police. In the video, Aldirch is armed with a rifle and is wearing tactical armor. If they breach Im going to blow it to holy hell, they say in the video. Police were at the home after Aldrichs mother reported they had threatened her with a homemade bomb. No charges ever resulted from the incident. Since their arrest, the FBI have alleged that Aldrich created a pair of websites filled with hate and the glorification of mass murder. The FBI described one site as a "free speech" focused forum where users anonymously post racist and anti-Semitic memes, comments, and videos, according to NBC News. A video on the homepage titled "Wrong Targets" advocates for the murder of civilians as a way to "assassinate the elites at the top" and to "cleanse" society. The second site linked to the first by a message asking users to "Visit Our Brother Site!" directs traffic to a webpage with four short video links, each uploaded in two formats, which the FBI claims were posted to the site just hours before the Q Club shooting. Two of the videos show the interior of a truck in the middle of the night. A clock reads 11.44, and a voice says "Ok." A frame in the video shows a reflection in the rearview mirror resembling Aldrich. The video ends. Aldrich allegedly began the attack on Q Club at 11.55pm. The other video on the site was the livestream footage from a mass shooting in Buffalo, New York, that left 10 people dead. The charges against Aldrich Aldrich has been charged with 305 criminal counts, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, assault, and at least 48 counts of committing crimes motivated by anti-LGBT+ bias. Prosecutors argued that Aldrich be charged with hate crimes, pointing out that his mother was reportedly nonbinary and forced him to go to LGBT+ clubs. Reporting also revealed that Aldrichs materal grandfather is Republican assemblyman Randy Voepel, who described the Capitol riot as Lexington and Concord. First shots fired against tyranny, the assemblyman wrote at the time. Randy Voepel sports a MAGA hat. He is the grandfather of mass shooting suspect Anderson Lee Aldrich (Randy Voepel/ Twitter) Investigators also revealed that Aldrich had had been to Q Club on at least six other occasions, each lasting only a few minutes and ending without incident. One of those visits was earlier on the night of the shooting. Aldrich's defence said they were not bigoted, but were high on drugs, sleep deprived, and came from an abusive family, according to the Associated Press. Investigators testified during the hearing to determine the eligibility of hate crimes that they allegedly found a hat in Aldrich's car with a phone taped onto it. They speculated that he may have considered livestreaming the attack. They also found several high-capacity magazines and a drum capable of carrying 60 rounds of ammunition at the scene. When they searched Aldrich's apartment, they allegedly found gun-making materials, receipts for weapons, and a sketch of the interior of Q Club. Their search also led them to conclude that the weapons recovered from the scene were mostly "ghost guns" homemade weapons largely without identifying information like serial numbers. The defence reminded the court it was not illegal to make a gun at home. Joseph Archambault, one of Aldrich's attorneys, said the alleged shooter expressed remorse after the killing, which he argues is a sign that it was not motivated by hate. It does not excuse it, but it is categorically different from people who target a group, he said, according to court records. Judge Michael McHenry ultimately ruled that Aldrich could be tried for hate crimes. US actor Shameik Moore plays Miles Morales, the half-Black, half-Latino hero of 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse' Nearly five years after the animated "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse" won an Oscar with its innovative, biracial take on the beloved webslinger, a wildly ambitious sequel aims to further blur the boundaries between superhero films and arthouse cinema. "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse," out Friday in the United States, picks up the story of half-Black, half-Latino Miles Morales, again using an eye-popping blend of decades-old 2D comic book drawing techniques with the latest computer-generated visual effects. This time, the action takes place across several parallel universes, each one visualized in its own unique animated style, from a paint-streaked, grungy 1990s New York to a kaleidoscopic futuristic hybrid of Mumbai and Manhattan. The movie employed three directors, more than 1,000 artists, and runs at two hours and 20 minutes -- unusually long for an animated film. Its creators told AFP that the success of the first movie -- which holds the highest-ever rating for a superhero movie on Rotten Tomatoes (97 percent) -- "gave us permission to just be even more daring on this film." "I feel like we got the amazing opportunity as directors to make the world's biggest independent film, basically," said co-director Justin K. Thompson. "It's an arthouse film, disguised as a superhero movie." - 'The Spider-Verse' - The film's hero Morales was first introduced to comic books in 2011, but came to mainstream attention with "Into the Spider-Verse," which won the Academy Award for best animated feature in 2019. Morales shares a familiar backstory with Peter Parker -- bitten by a radioactive spider, he quickly deploys his new powers to swing between Manhattan skyscrapers and fight crime. But his diverse ancestry and fondness for trendy sneakers and rap music set him apart from the "traditional" Spider-Man. It is all made possible thanks to the concept of a "multiverse," in which different versions of the same characters exist in parallel dimensions -- and occasionally interact -- that has been used in comic books for decades. In recent years, the multiverse has become popular in Hollywood too, as movie studios feed audiences' boundless appetite for more and more superhero films, and writers scramble to explain how they can possibly all fit together. "The thing that shocked us on the first movie was, there was no resistance to the idea of a multiverse -- that the audience were completely on board and, like, not confused!" Christopher Miller, who co-produced both movies, told AFP. "It allowed this movie to go to even more spectacular places -- to introduce more unusual characters." The first Spider-Verse movie had a 1930s film noir-style private eye Spider-Man, and even a Spider-Ham pig character. This time, we meet a British punk rocker Spidey, and a dashing Indian version. - Two-hour barrier - Aside from the complexity of its dimension-hopping plot, the new film has raised eyebrows due to its length. While upcoming adult dramas such as Martin Scorsese's "Killers of the Flower Moon" and Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer" are set to top three hours, anything longer than two hours for a US animated feature is highly unusual. And "Across the Spider-Verse" is the first of two sequels, with "Beyond the Spider-Verse" to conclude events next year. But the creators shrugged off the notion that "a film that happens to be animated" must be brief, noting that "quiet" moments from the first film involving Miles bonding with his father and uncle were fan favorites. "The peaks don't play as high if those lows don't play as beautifully low as they do," said co-director Joaquim Dos Santos. "Those are the moments you're losing -- the moments that actually make the film special in the first place," added fellow director Kemp Powers, who also co-wrote Pixar's "Soul." "Of course, if it were six hours, that's too long," he joked. amz/hg/sst/mlm Anna Sorokin is set to launch her next project while on house arrest, a podcast called: The Anna Delvey Show. The 32-year-old con artist partnered with Audio Up and Sean Glass Reunion Audio to launch her podcast, which shell be recording from her apartment in New York City. Sorokin, who is also known as Anna Delvey, was released on house arrest from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody in October, after she overstayed her visa. She was initially convicted in 2019 for fraud and grand larceny and did a nearly-four year prison sentence. In the trailer for the podcast, Sorokin, who is the subject of Netflixs Inventing Anna, said that podcast listeners will have the opportunity to meet the real her. She noted that the show will be centred on the concept of rules, as shell be talking to people who break them. From art, politics, fashion, tech, finances, law, and more, The Anna Delvey Show will share honest and unfiltered conversations that will question traditional notions of whats right and wrong, she said. Some of the guests on the podcast will include Emily Ratajkowski, Julia Fox, Jeremy Harris, and Kenny Schachter, as reported by Deadline. In a statement to the publication, Sorokin continued to open up about the goal of her podcast. This will be the first time I have my own platform to share my personal views on the publics fascination with my life story while in conversation with guests across multiple industries, she said. Im interested in examining how rule breaking can build you up as well as tear you down while also creating a polarizing reaction from the public. Audio Ups Chief Creative Officer, Jimmy Jellinek, said that this podcast was a truly visceral experience that looks at the fierce fascination with Anna and her public image. Right or wrong, many of us find ourselves rooting for Annas future and thats what this show examines, he added. Glass also emphasised how this podcast is a new opportunity for people to get to know the real Anna Delvey. Her experiences and point of view open people and provide audiences with a window into the featured guests they wont hear elsewhere. Audiences will not hear anything like this anywhere else, he added. In addition, Deadline revealed that during her podcast, Sorokin will be releasing her first single, which was produced by Audio UPs CEO, Jared Gutstadt. Meanwhile, this isnt the first project that Sorokin is doing while on house arrest. In January, she announced that shell be hosting her own reality series, Delveys Dinner Club. For the weekly series, a glitterati of actors, musicians, socialites, and journalists will join Sorokin and engage in candid conversations about her experience within the criminal justice system, her strategy to rebuild her image, and her plans for the future. In 2019, Sorokin was first convicted of defrauding New York banks, hotels, and others of $2750,000 while posing as the daughter of a German diplomat or oil baron. After paying back her victims, she was briefly released in February 2021, before she was arrested by ICE for overstaying her visa and then released on house arrest in October. Anti-LGBTQ bills in Kenya and Uganda have unleashed an unprecedented wave of online disinformation targeting the community, with experts accusing political leaders of spreading falsehoods that put lives at risk. Social media platforms have been rife with false claims, including one alleging that Kenya's president called for the killing of gay people and another that the United States ordered Uganda to legalise homosexuality. "Politicians (in Kenya and Uganda) have tapped into populist homophobia to keep themselves relevant to the masses," said Nairobi-based political analyst and journalist Patrick Gathara. "An anti-LGBTQ stance translates into one being accepted by voters." Homosexuality remains a taboo across much of Africa, where gay people are often forced to hide their sexual orientation out of fear for their safety. Opinion polls show that many East Africans believe that the lifestyle of LGBTQ people threatens traditional values. Uganda announced on Monday that President Yoweri Museveni had signed into law a draconian bill prescribing harsh measures including the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality" in certain circumstances, although Uganda has not carried out capital punishment for many years. Gay sex is also a crime under colonial-era legislation in neighbouring Kenya whose President William Ruto recently declared that homosexuality was a Western import incompatible with his nation's "customs, traditions, Christianity and Islam". A proposal calling for the criminalisation of homosexuality is currently before parliament, spurring false claims that the bill had already been approved. Screenshot of the false claim, taken on May 31, 2023 'Constant lies' The brutal murder in January of prominent Kenyan LGBTQ campaigner Edwin Chiloba sparked national and global outcry. While a man reported to be his lover was charged over the killing, the case put the spotlight on rising homophobia in the region. In the aftermath of Chiloba's death, several false reports began to circulate online, such as claims that Ruto called for the killing of people in same-sex relationships. The claim was shared via a graphic made to look like it came from local news site Kenyans.co.ke, which rejected it as fake. "We did not publish the graphic calling for the killing of gay people, that information is false," the outlet told AFP. Screenshot of the false graphic, taken on May 31, 2023 In February, a ruling by Kenya's Supreme Court further stoked anti-gay discourse. The court ruled that the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission must be allowed to register as a non-governmental organisation -- a decision which incensed conservatives. In a rare show of agreement, Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga both criticised (archived here) the ruling, arguing that Kenya was a religious nation and that the court had overstepped its mandate. Following the legal decision, a video emerged on social media in Kenya and Uganda purporting to show US President Joe Biden vilifying gay people. AFP Fact Check's investigation showed the clip was a deep fake. Another conspiracy theory that surfaced after the Supreme Court announcement claimed that Kenya was struggling economically because of LGBTQ people. Kevin Mwachiro, an openly gay LGBTQ rights activist from Kenya, said the ruling had been misinterpreted as meaning that homosexuality would be legalised. Political and religious leaders "have used misinformation to twist the reality and this puts LGBTQ people's lives at risk," he told AFP. "The constant lies make queer people misunderstood. They need to be supported, not persecuted." Politics of homophobia The LGBTQ community also lacks critical legal protection in Uganda, where homosexuality was criminalised under colonial laws, although there has never been a conviction for consensual same-sex activity since independence from Britain in 1962. Lawmakers in March approved a new bill criminalising anyone coming out as LGBTQ. It also introduced the death penalty in certain cases in what UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said was "probably among the worst of its kind in the world", while the United States threatened economic repercussions. In the face of international pressure, the legislation was revised to clarify that identifying as gay without engaging in sexual acts would not be outlawed. But it nonetheless generated disinformation, including claims that a viral video showed a White House spokesman allegedly threatening to pull US aid unless Uganda legalised homosexuality. In reality, the clip -- which drew thousands of shares on platforms like TikTok and Facebook -- was from 2014, when Washington briefly halted financial assistance in response to Uganda's anti-gay bill. But following Museveni's approval of the revised legislation, Biden on Monday threatened to cut aid and investment in the East African country. Experts warn that homophobic rhetoric is unlikely to abate on the continent. "Many people in Kenya and Uganda have strict views on sexuality and an intolerance toward homosexuality because they have been conditioned to believe that homosexuality is un-African -- they view sex through a different lens," said Melody Njuki of the Kenyan Initiative for Equality and Non-Discrimination. LULEA, Sweden (Reuters) - New anti-terrorism legislation which comes into force this week should pave the way for Sweden to join NATO in coming weeks and overcome a Turkish veto, Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said on Wednesday. Sweden and Finland applied for NATO membership following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. While Finland joined the military alliance in April, Sweden's bid has been held up by Turkey despite a deal struck in Madrid last year to meet its security concerns. "This new legislation will close a loophole in our already existing anti-terrorist legislation," Billstrom told reporters in Lulea, northern Sweden. "Sweden has not previously prohibited participation in a terrorist organisation. We will do this now." Turkey says Sweden harbours members of militant groups it considers to be terrorists. The new legislation, which Billstrom said completed Sweden's commitments made in Madrid, will make it illegal to arrange meetings or provide logistical or financial help or even food to outlawed groups. The wide scope of the law has sparked concerns in Sweden about whether it could infringe freedom of speech and other fundamental rights. But the government hopes it will convince newly re-elected Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to give the green light to its NATO membership before an alliance summit in Vilnius in July. Erdogan has come under pressure, not least from the United States, to back Sweden's NATO bid, but so far he has refused to budge. Billstrom said he hoped a NATO gathering in Oslo this week would underline the need for a quick accession. "I expect clear messages coming out ... that Sweden is welcome into the NATO family and that there is a high expectation that we will be a member before Vilnius," he said. Billstrom had hoped to meet his counterpart, Mevlut Cavusoglu, in Oslo, but the Turkish Foreign Minister will not be attending. However, Billstrom said the two countries would meet within the framework of the Madrid process, "which again is much more important than two ministers sitting down and drinking coffee". Sweden's new terrorism legislation may get an early test. Turkey wants Sweden to prosecute individuals who projected the flag of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) on the parliament building in Stockholm at the time of the Turkish elections. The PKK has led an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984 and more than 40,000 people have been killed in clashes. It is considered a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the European Union and the United States. (Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop in Lulea and Simon Johnson in Stockholm; Editing by Niklas Pollard and David Holmes) Leslie Van Houten in 2017. Stan Lim/Los Angeles Daily News via AP, Pool, File A California appeals court ruled 2-1 on Tuesday that Leslie Van Houten, a follower of cult leader Charles Manson who participated in two murders at his direction, is entitled to parole. Since 2016, Van Houten, 73, has been recommended for parole five times, with the Board of Parole Hearings saying in 2020 she does not "pose an unreasonable risk to public safety." California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and his predecessor, Gov. Jerry Brown (D), rejected parole for Van Houten on every occasion, and this is the first time a court has overruled the governor's rejection of parole for a Manson follower, the Los Angeles Times reports. In August 1969, Van Houten, then 19, and several other Manson followers stabbed to death husband and wife Leno and Rosemary LaBianca in their Los Angeles home. Two years later, Van Houten was convicted of murder and sentenced to death; in 1972, when capital punishment was ruled unconstitutional in California, her sentence was commuted to life in prison. Her case was overturned on appeal, and in a retrial, she was convicted of murder and conspiracy to murder and sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. In 2022, Newsom said he denied Van Houten's parole because she posed an "unreasonable danger" if released and he found her explanation of how she became influenced by Manson inadequate. On Tuesday, the judges on California's 2nd District Court of Appeal wrote that when making his decision, Newsom did not take into account "the decades of therapy, self-help programing and reflection Van Houten has undergone in the past 50 years." Van Houten's lawyer, Nancy Tetreault, said she believes California Attorney General Rob Bonta will go to the state Supreme Court and ask for a review of the appellate court's decision and a stay on the ruling. "I will, of course, vigorously oppose any stay," Tetreault told The Associated Press. "And they could let her out during that process." You may also like Air New Zealand to weigh international passengers as part of safety survey Thousands flock to Missouri to see body of nun who died in 2019 Why is Joe Biden running for reelection, anyway? FILE PHOTO: Demonstrators in favour of legalizing abortion protest outside the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires Argentina eases access to 'morning after pill', broadening reproductive rights FILE PHOTO: Demonstrators in favour of legalizing abortion protest outside the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires By Anna-Catherine Brigida BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Argentina will no longer require a prescription to obtain emergency contraception, commonly known as the 'morning after pill', the government said on Wednesday, broadening reproductive rights in the traditionally conservative South American country. The Catholic country and homeland of Pope Francis approved a law allowing abortion up to 14 weeks in December 2020, part of a wave of liberalizing legislation around the region, even as the United States further north has seen abortion access tightened. In the official bulletin, the health ministry wrote that the measure would help avoid unintentional pregnancy by helping overcome "difficulties of access to health services, contraception supplies, and education" faced by some. "This removes an important barrier to access," Valeria Isla, director of sexual and reproductive health at the Health Ministry, told Reuters. "People can have this method of contraception as support before an emergency happens." Emergency contraception is a hormonal pill taken within 120 hours of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy by blocking the fertilization of the egg, according to the World Health Organization, though it is more effective within 12 hours. The day-after pill is available without a prescription in at least 70 countries, including the United States. Most Latin American countries allow emergency contraceptives, but some require prescriptions or have a minimum age requirement. Vanessa Gagliardi, leader of Argentine feminist organization Juntas y a la Izquierda said the move will help "de-stigmatize" the morning-after pill in a country where seven out of 10 adolescent pregnancies were unplanned, official data show. "For a long time it was thought to induce an abortion, which is not true," Gagliardi said, referring to the common criticism of emergency contraception from pro-life groups. Argentine pro-life group DerquiXlaVida said the measure was worrying because "the state is essentially orienting itself towards promoting abortive measures." "It's a way of recognizing the failure of pregnancy prevention, sex education, and the responsibility and even persecution of authors and promoters of sexual abuse," the group said in a statement. (Reporting by Anna-Catherine Brigida, Editing by William Maclean) The Los Angeles County District Attorneys office says Armie Hammer wont face sexual assault charges due to insufficient evidence. In 2021, the Los Angeles Police Department launched an investigation into an allegation that the 36-year-old actor violently raped a woman who publicly accused Hammer in a news conference alongside high-profile lawyer Gloria Allred. Hammer has denied the accusations. In a statement obtained by ITK on Wednesday, Tiffiny Blacknell, communications director for the Los Angeles County District Attorney offices, said, Sexual assault cases are often difficult to prove, which is why we assign our most experienced prosecutors to review them. In this case, those prosecutors conducted an extremely thorough review, but determined that at this time, there is insufficient evidence to charge Mr. Hammer with a crime. As prosecutors, we have an ethical responsibility to only charge cases that we can prove beyond a reasonable doubt. We know that it is hard for women to report sexual assault, the statement from the district attorneys office said. Due to the complexity of the relationship and inability to prove a non-consensual, forcible sexual encounter we are unable to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt, Blacknell said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Actor Armie Hammer reportedly wont face sexual assault charges after the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office determined there wasnt enough evidence. In this case, those prosecutors conducted an extremely thorough review, but determined that at this time, there is insufficient evidence to charge Mr. Hammer with a crime, the DAs office said in a statement first reported by Variety on Wednesday. In 2021, Hammer was accused of rape by a woman who said she had been in a four-year relationship with the Call Me By Your Name actor. On April 24, 2017, Armie Hammer violently raped me for over four hours in Los Angeles, she said during a news conference at the time. During which he repeatedly slapped my head against a wall, bruising my face. He also committed other acts of violence against me to which I did not consent. Hammer has denied the allegations. In the statement provided to Variety, the DAs office added that investigators could not prove a sexual assault happened beyond a reasonable doubt. Due to the complexity of the relationship and inability to prove a non-consensual, forcible sexual encounter we are unable to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt, the statement said. The Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from HuffPost. Need help? Visit RAINNs National Sexual Assault Online Hotline or the National Sexual Violence Resource Centers website. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office will not file sexual assault charges against embattled actor Armie Hammer following what has been described as a "thorough review" by prosecutors. In a statement obtained by EW, Tiffiny Blacknell, director of the D.A. office's bureau of communications, said prosecutors found "insufficient evidence" to charge Hammer with rape, citing the "complexity of the relationship" between the actor and his accuser, previously identified as a woman named Effie, and "inability to prove a non-consensual, forcible sexual encounter." "As prosecutors, we have an ethical responsibility to only charge cases that we can prove beyond a reasonable doubt," the statement read. "We know that it is hard for women to report sexual assault. Even when we cannot move forward with a prosecution, our victim service representatives will be available to those who seek our victim support services." SANTA MONICA, CA - JANUARY 11: Actor Armie Hammer attends The 23rd Annual Critics' Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on January 11, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for The Critics' Choice Awards ) Christopher Polk/Getty Armie Hammer Hammer expressed his gratitude to the D.A.'s office in a statement shared on Instagram, which read, in part, "I look forward to beginning what will be a long, difficult process of putting my life back together now that my name is cleared." Effie reported Hammer to police in 2021, alleging that the actor violently raped her in Los Angeles and also subjected her to mental and emotional abuse during a four-year on-and-off relationship. Hammer denied the allegations, with his attorney Andrew Brettler telling EW in a statement at the time that Effie's "own correspondence with Mr. Hammer undermines and refutes her outrageous allegations." He also provided an alleged text message exchange between the two and said Hammer made "it clear that he did not want to maintain that type of relationship with her." Hammer became embroiled in controversy earlier in 2021 after he was accused of sexual misconduct by several women, who shared messages allegedly sent by the actor pertaining to BDSM and cannibalistic desires. As a result, Hammer who called the allegations "bullsh--" at the time was dropped by his agency and various TV and film projects, including the 2022 rom-com Shotgun Wedding and Godfather series The Offer. He was recently the subject of three-part docuseries House of Hammer, which delved into the allegations and his family history. He broke his silence for the first time earlier this year in an interview with Air Mail, where he acknowledged the "imbalance of power" between him and the younger women he had sexual relationships with and revealed that he attempted suicide amid the allegations against him. Related content: After arrest warrant, Putin is stuck in Russia: he is not going to Erdogan's inauguration either Russian President Vladimir Putin has not left Russia after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant. State Duma Speaker Viacheslav Volodin will go to the inauguration of Recep Tayyip Erdogan instead. Source: Russian state-owned news agency RIA Novosti, referring to presidential aide Yurii Ushakov Details: Turkiyes current president, Erdogan, won the election and will remain in office for another presidential term. Typically, leaders from various countries are invited to his inauguration. However, according to Ushakov, instead of Putin, Speaker Volodin will go to the ceremony and represent Russia there. Background: On 17 March, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin for being responsible for the abduction of Ukrainian children. Now, 123 countries that are members of the ICC are legally obliged to detain and bring Putin to court. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Zachary Petrizzo The mother of Ashli Babbitt, Micki Witthoeft, was arrested Tuesday evening after striking a counter-protester at a right-wing event outside of the Washington, D.C. jail where many of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot defendants are being held. Witthoeft, 58, was spotted by The Daily Beast being taken into custody just after 6:45 p.m. She was surrounded by officers and handcuffed before being walked into a waiting police van. The arrest comes just one day after Witthoefts alleged violent outburst was caught on film and later reported to police. A senior law enforcement official confirmed to The Daily Beast that the arrest was related to the earlier assault. 58-year-old Michelle Witthoeft, of Spring Valley, CA, was arrested and charged with Simple Assault and Destruction of Property, Hugh Carew, a D.C. Metropolitan Police Department Public Information Office, told The Daily Beast after publication. Zachary Petrizzo for The Daily Beast In the video, she can be seen racing after a counter-protester holding a megaphone and a camera. Its unclear what precedes the incident, but the womans megaphone is blaring a loud siren sound, likely annoying the crowd of right-wing protesters gathered in support of the imprisoned Jan. 6 defendants. As the anti-fascist protester raises a middle finger, Witthoeft raises her arm and strikes the woman before shoving her off the sidewalk. Witthoeft then continues following the woman as she runs away, grabbing her megaphone and smashing it before running off. Ashli Babbitt's mother struck an anti-fascist organizer last night at a rally outside of the DC jail. pic.twitter.com/1hSLgQzzsm Zachary Petrizzo (@ZTPetrizzo) May 30, 2023 Following her arrest, a group of right-wing protesters gathered around the police vehicle to shout words of support, coalescing in chants of Ashli Babbitt! Ashli Babbit! Arrested for defending Ashli Babbit's honor, another right-wing protester yelled. Candlelight Vigil Outside of D.C. Jail for Jan. 6 Rioters Draws More Gawkers Than Participants Hours later, on Tuesday evening, Witthoeft was released and returned to the right-wing protest area outside of the jail, called freedom corner. I did klonk my head getting in the paddy wagon, she told a small crowd of supporters. The MPD department on M St. has a serious rat problem. It really wasn't that bad, she said of the booking process. As for the charges she hit a left-wing counter-protester, Witthoeft said, there's really no denying it. Tuesdays arrest is not Witthoefts first brush with the law in recent years. She was taken into custody for blocking traffic at a Jan. 6 remembrance event earlier this year, with police also citing the groups lack of permits to hold the event on Capitol grounds. Prosecutors later declined to file charges in the case. Witthoefts daughter, a former senior airman with the U.S. Air Force, was killed by a Capitol police officer on Jan. 6 as she attempted to enter the Speakers lobby just outside the U.S. House of Representatives. Babbitts death has since become a right-wing cause celebre. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. A truck driver from Atlanta recently was arrested following an incident of road rage involving a gun on the Athens Perimeter. The bout of rage occurred about 10 a.m. Sunday with several Athens-Clarke police officers responding when both vehicles stopped near the South Milledge Avenue intersection. The victims, a 41-year-old man and his 40-year-old brother, both from Hull, told the officers that a box truck attempted to pass them at a point where traffic merged and there was not enough room. The Hull man told police the box truck driver began shouting at them to pull over, then pulled a pistol and pointed it at his brother, the passenger. Guns: Georgia Supreme Court upholds dismissal of professors' challenge to allowing guns on campus Guns: UGA student narrowly missed by bullet fired by man in road rage with another car The officer reported he spoke to the truck driver, who contended that the other vehicle tried to block him from passing, but he also admitted he pulled his gun and pointed it at them. The 30-year-old Atlanta man was charged with pointing a gun at another and taken to jail. The suspect's 9mm pistol was found next to the driver's seat of the truck, police said. The Georgia Department of Public Safety reported that the best way to avoid being the target of an aggressive driver is to practice safe driving habits. These include: Dont switch lanes without signaling; Avoid blocking the right-hand turn lane; Do not take more than one parking space; Do not allow your door to hit the car parked next to you; Use your horn sparingly; Avoid unnecessary use of high-beam headlights; Do not tailgate; If you travel slowly, pull over and allow traffic to pass; Dont inflict loud music on neighboring cars; and, Do not make obscene gestures. This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Atlanta trucker arrested after gun pulled in road rage in Athens An audit of the heart: Nicaraguan dissident Felix Maradiaga and his wife Berta Valle on balancing the fight for justice with family life Its been just over 100 days since Nicaraguan opposition leader Felix Maradiaga was released from prison, along with at least 221 other political prisoners, and flown to the United States. His sudden release after 611 days of detention many of them in solitary confinement, he says came as a surprise both for Maradiaga and his wife Berta Valle. Valle, who had no direct contact with her husband while he was in prison, told CNN there had been talk of something happening in Nicaragua in a family group chat the night before the flood of political prisoners was released. Jaded from prior disappointments, she had dismissed it as gossip. Around midnight, I just decided to go to bed and I said, Well Lord, I give you my husband, take care of him. Im so tired, I have to go to bed. Then in the morning, I woke up very early, and I received a phone call from someone from the State Department who said Look Berta, Im calling you to tell you that your husband is flying right now in an airplane together with 221 political prisoners, and theyre going to Washington, she said. And I just started screaming! Imagine at six in the morning, I was just waking up everyone in the house. When Valle, a former journalist, could finally breathe normally, she asked the State Department if she should also make her way to Washington from Miami, where she is now based. They said yes and she did. The rest of that day is a blur, she says. I just remember how incredibly relieved I was and how grateful. For me it was a miracle. I was expecting Felix to get out in maybe three, four years. And it had happened. Maradiagas release came after years of escalating repression by Nicaraguas five-term President Daniel Ortega who also stripped the former prisoners of their Nicaraguan nationality while they were in the air, en route to the US. The authoritarian leader has imprisoned dozens of opposition figures and activists, particularly in the lead up to the last elections in November 2021. Many were accused of treason or involvement in illicit activities for having contact with foreign journalists or human rights organizations that the Ortega regime views as a threat. All the presidential candidates, plus the high ranking politicians arrested with me, were charged with the same accusation, undermining national sovereignty, and conspiracy against national security, Maradiaga said. The journalist and civil society leaders were charged with money laundering or producing fake news on cybercrimes and the less visible prisoners, like grassroots leaders were charged with a very diverse set of felonies. Prisoners were kept in what Maradiagas lawyer described as horrific conditions, with little food of poor quality, no reading materials not even a bible and many without drinking water available in their cells. Maradiaga told CNN that he lost 60 pounds in the first few months in prison, was kept in total darkness, and was not allowed to make a single phone call. Valle and Maradiaga spoke to CNN earlier this month at the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy about how they prepared for imprisonment, adjusting to their unexpected reunion, and balancing the good fight with family life. A unilateral decision Maradiaga had long been a thorn in the side of President Daniel Ortega for speaking out against the regime. As an opposition activist and civil society leader, he spoke out relentlessly against the regimes crackdown on dissent. Maradiaga told CNN that he had clues in the lead up to his release that something was happening he just didnt know what. The conditions in the prison were terrible the first year and then towards the end of 2022, the other prisoners and myself started to have certain small prison conditions changed. For example, finally, after almost two years, I got for the first time on a phone call with my daughter, whom I had not seen for three years. We were also given food and encouraged to eat like they [the prison guards] wanted us to put on weight. Then, on February 8, a guard came to our cell and said, Dress! He gave me some clothing and then we boarded a bus, handcuffed, with no information. And then I arrived at the airport with the other prisoners from 11 different detention centers, he recounted. Maradiaga spotted an American diplomat at the airport who he had worked with before and that was when he realized he and the other prisoners were being flown to the United States. I got on my knees. I kissed the floor because I knew it was going to be a long time until my next return to Nicaragua, which will happen I give you my word it will happen and I boarded the plane, he says defiantly. US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said at the time that the decision to release the individuals, some of whom had spent years in prison, was a unilateral decision that the Nicaraguan government took. The prisoners were made to sign a document acknowledging their willingness to fly to the United States and boarded a flight to Dulles International Airport in the early hours of February 9. It was the Nicaraguan government that decided to offer the opportunity to these individuals to travel to the United States, Price said. We agreed that we would of course receive them. Preparing for the worst Maradiaga expected to be imprisoned or worse when he returned to Nicaragua in 2019, after a year in exile in the US. As he saw other voices of dissent being arrested and thrown in prison, he set out to prepare his family for what could happen by recording a series of videos and instructions to sustain his wife and daughter if he were to suddenly disappear. When I received the notice of the attorneys office that I needed to show myself, I had a call with Berta that we both recall perfectly. I told her that I was going to be arrested, but there was a big chance that I was going to be disappeared, he said. So, I had to film a video probably the hardest thing Ive done to try to explain to my six-year-old daughter, that if I got killed, that it was because of my principles and ask her to forgive me for that decision. But that it was the right thing to do. Maradiaga was ultimately arrested on June 8, 2021, having announced his intention to run for president four months earlier. He was investigated for various crimes and eventually sentenced to 13 years in prison for conspiracy to undermine national integrity, according to his lawyer. In those first few months, Valle was angry. She said that she felt like her husband had abandoned her and their daughter, especially as she had to deal with her daughter asking for him every night. But over time, and through speaking to victims of the Ortega regime whom her husband had helped, her anger and disappointment were replaced by admiration, she says. The videos Maradiaga had left for her ended up being a lifeline, she also said. He gave me all these instructions. He gave me, for example, the name of our international human rights lawyer, Jared Genser, who became my angel through all of this. He gave me the contacts of the Geneva Summit and other organizations, that he said I should contact to advocate for his release. They were not able to break our souls, say freed Nicaraguan political prisoners Maradiaga credits his wifes advocacy alongside the work of these international human rights organizations as being instrumental to his release. He explains how the international outcry these organizations cause often makes the prisoner too much of a problem for the dictatorship and that can lead to a release of some sort. Its not a magic bullet, but I saw from every single interrogation, every single interview was about the names of organizations. They were so concerned about the meetings of the UN, meetings of the Geneva Summit, the Oslo Freedom Forum, they had huge reports of all the traveling or the advocacy that Berta was doing. Although Maradiaga says hes not yet ready to talk about the dark conditions he faced while in prison, he credits his Catholic faith and deep sense of purpose as the factors that kept him going while he was detained. When you give suffering a purpose and meaning, suffering is not necessarily something that is less bearable, but at least has a meaning. Deep in my heart I always knew that it was a matter of time. I told myself, Mr. Ortega is close to his 80s, I have much more time than he does, but also more faith. And thats the important part. An audit of the heart. While both Maradiaga and his wife are elated to be reunited, they admit that it hasnt been easy and that there is a lot of work for them to do, both individually and as a family. Its been really interesting the last three months to have back Felix at home, especially because we were living for three years together with my mother-in-law and [daughter] Alejandra. We have our own dynamic in the house, and then Felix comes and the dynamics change, Valle says. She explains that she had been hoping that they would be able to pause and spend time together as a family once he was released but that the reality has been very different. Maradiaga has had requests for hundreds of interviews and speaking engagements since the moment he landed in the US. Both feel pressure to seize the moment to draw attention to the fight for freedom in Nicaragua and trying to heal themselves and their family at the same time is a tough road to navigate, they say. Every single day in freedom for me is a joy, Maradiaga says. To see my daughter, her smile, every morning is a miracle. When I see Berta, food Ive gained 30 pounds since November last year the smells, the air, sometimes we take it for granted. But there are people around the world, they just see a ray of light, sunshine, as a gift. On the other hand, every single day that Im free, someone else is in prison. Every single day that Im free, my country is suffering repression. So thats why I have a sense of urgency. So thats whats next, to free Nicaragua, he says. On Saturday, Nicaraguan police said they were investigating several dioceses of the Catholic Church for allegations of money laundering, a day after local media reported that the bank accounts of parishes in the Central American country had been frozen. This comes just weeks after the National Assembly of Nicaragua voted to dissolve the local branch of the Red Cross, as part of an ongoing clampdown on groups seen as hostile to the Ortega government. The regime also suspended ties with the Vatican in March, shortly after Pope Francis compared his administration to the Nazi dictatorship of Adolf Hitler. While he hasnt yet had time to fully process his ordeal, Maradiaga is also aware of the need to juggle his commitment to fighting for freedom in Nicaragua with his personal healing. I think that dictators know that when they put people in prison, the human reaction is to come out with anger and bitterness, he says. So in my case, Ive been working very hard to do an audit of the heart, to try, so that my commitment to non-violence, my compassion, my commitment to civic resistance, remain untouched. Its very important not to hate because if you want to build democracy and freedom out of hate, you will just replicate the same cycle. Compassion doesnt mean that we will not persecute crimes against humanity. But through the law, through the international system not revenge justice, Maradiaga adds. A symbol of hope Maradiaga and Valles reunification has become a symbol of hope for many, and they also feel a responsibility to encourage that hope. Both spoke at the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy in May, where Maradiaga was awarded the 2023 Courage Award. In his speech, Maradiaga vowed to use his platform to not only fight for a free and democratic Nicaragua, but to campaign for the freedom of political prisoners around the world. This is an award that belongs to those Nicaraguans who live in a huge prison. Those Nicaraguans without a voice. Those Nicaraguans who only are asking for the protection of basic human rights and human dignity. So this award not only recognizes the struggle for freedom in my own nation, but amplifies the voices of the silenced, he told the summit. Do not let anyone tell you that it is not possible to free Vladimir Kara-Murza. Do not let anyone know that its not possible to release our dear barefoot lawyer from China. Do not let anyone tell you that its not possible to walk in full freedom in Hong Kong and Venezuela, in Cuba, in Afghanistan, he continued. Kara-Murza, a Russian rights advocate, was sentenced to 25 years in prison after criticizing the Kremlins war in Ukraine. Valle, who spoke alongside her husband at the summit, used the opportunity to urge other families of political prisoners to seek out help, and stressing the importance of taking time to rest. I like this phrase that says that Im here because I stand on the shoulders of giants. Its very important to look for help, look for organizations, people that have had some experience in the situation that everyone is facing that helped me a lot. And also faith, says Valle, a devout born-again Christian. After all this work that we do as human rights defenders, theres a private life that also has to be taken care of. We have to take moments to rest, to think, to pray if you are religious, because its important to protect ourselves first and then try to do things for others, Valle added. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com WARSAW (Reuters) - A political video by Poland's ruling nationalist party that uses images of Nazi Germany's Auschwitz death camp is an insult to those who lost their lives there, the museum that preserves the site said on Wednesday. The short video, which the Law and Justice Party (PiS) posted on social media, aims to discourage people from attending an opposition march due to take place in Warsaw on Sunday. It refers to a tweet from prominent government critic and former Polish Newsweek editor Tomasz Lis, who said that "a chamber" would be found for PiS leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski and President Andrzej Duda, a PiS ally. Against a background image of the Auschwitz camp's notorious "Arbeit macht frei" (Work sets you free) front gate and one of Lis's tweet, the video asks: "Do you really want to march under this slogan?" Lis apologised for the tweet after criticism of his reference to a "chamber" - given that Jews were killed in gas chambers at Auschwitz - but said his words were misinterpreted and he meant to write "a cell". The Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial, set up on the site of the death camp established in Nazi-occupied Poland during World War Two, condemned the video. "The instrumentalisation of the tragedy of people who suffered and died in the German Nazi Auschwitz camp - on either side of the political dispute - is an insult to the memory of the victims," the museum said on Twitter. "It is a sad, painful and unacceptable manifestation of the moral and intellectual corruption of the public debate." A government spokesman could not be immediately reached for comment. President Duda condemned referrals to Auschwitz in latter-day political debate. "The memory of the victims of German crimes in Auschwitz is sacred and inviolable. The tragedy of millions of victims cannot be used in political disputes. This is an unworthy act and there is no excuse for it," Duda wrote on Twitter. More than 1.1 million people, most of them Jews, perished at the Auschwitz camp in gas chambers or from starvation, cold and disease. Between 1941 and 1945, Nazi Germany and its collaborators systematically murdered some six million Jews across German-occupied Europe. (Reporting by Alan Charlish, Pawel Florkiewicz and Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk; editing by Bernadette Baum and Mark Heinrich) Award-winning journalist and producer Lisa Ling has been named a CBS News contributor. Ling's distinctive reporting will be featured across CBS News broadcasts and platforms beginning this summer. The announcement was made Wednesday morning by Neeraj Khemlani, president and co-head of CBS News and Stations. "Lisa delivers some of the most authentic, human and revealing interviews because of how she embeds with communities and the people she covers. It gives her and us a chance to communicate the pulse of the country and the world in a more experiential way," said Khemlani. "From war coverage at Channel One News to the anchor table at 'The View' to numerous cable series that showcase her immersive journalism, Lisa Ling is a multi-talented reporter and storyteller that we are thrilled to add to our roster of world-class network talent." "I can't think of a better home for my style of reporting than CBS News given its tradition of exceptional news gathering and thoughtful storytelling," said Ling. "I'm honored to be working with this venerable organization to tell the stories of people behind the headlines whose voices need to be heard." Lisa Ling / Credit: Sonja Flemming/CBS 2023 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. Ling, who is based in Los Angeles, joins CBS News after more than eight years as the executive producer of "This is Life with Lisa Ling" for CNN, which explored topics including interracial families, sex trafficking, the alcohol epidemic, motorcycle gangs, religion, the impact of artificial intelligence on relationships, and gun violence. In 2022, she also delved into Asian American history and cuisine in the six-part HBO Max documentary series "Take Out." Ling spent six years as the executive producer and host of "Our America" for Oprah Winfrey's OWN, where she reported from dozens of countries on such topics as rape in the Congo and the Lord's Resistance Army in Uganda. She also covered a variety of stories around the world as the host of "National Geographic Ultimate Explorer." Previously, Ling was a co-host on ABC's "The View" for three years and contributed to ABC's "Nightline." She got her start in journalism as a correspondent for Channel One News, where at just 21, she covered the civil war in Afghanistan. She is also the co-author of two books: "Somewhere Inside: One Sister's Captivity in North Korea the Other's Fight to Bring Her Home," with her sister Laura Ling; and "Mother, Daughter, Sister, Bride: Rituals of Womanhood," with Joanne B. Eicher. Ling joins a CBS News team that has added a number of high-profile new hires over the past two years, including "CBS Mornings" co-host Nate Burleson and correspondents Robert Costa, Scott MacFarlane, Natalie Morales and Cecilia Vega. Sneak peek: Death Hits Home: The Hargan Killings Chris Christie to enter 2024 presidential race Nationwide lifeguard shortage causing staffing issues at beaches and pools KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. Four astronauts aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft returned to Earth Tuesday night after a successful splashdown off the Florida coast. The Axiom-2 crew, which included former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, pilot John Shoffner and mission specialists Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Alqarni, have spent more than a week in space and conducted more than 20 experiments and demonstrations. During a rendezvous with the International Space Station (ISS), the private crew conducted medical research, studied cloud seeding and participated in several technological demonstrations. SEE THE OBJECTS HUMANS LEFT BEHIND ON THE MOON The Ax-2 mission was full of historical firsts, with Whitson becoming the first woman to lead a private spaceflight and Saudi Arabia paying for the seats for Barnawi and Alqarni. Barnawi, a biomedical researcher, became the first woman astronaut in the Middle Eastern countrys history. Shoffner became the first person from Alaska to fly to space. The crew launched on May 21 and spent eight days on the ISS, logging just over 3.33 million miles as it orbited Earth 126 times before it's splashdown at 11:04 p.m. ET Tuesday. The AX-2 launch was Axiom Spaces second all-private astronaut mission to the International Space Station. The space company and NASA are already planning for a third launch mission later this year, which will be known as Ax-3 and last at least two weeks. NASA DEVELOPS "MOON DUSTER" TO ZAP AWAY LUNAR DUST "Axiom Spaces selection to lead the next private astronaut mission to the International Space Station enables us to continue expanding access to nations, academia, commercial entities, and emerging industries to research, test, and demonstrate new technologies in microgravity," Michael Suffredini, CEO and president of Axiom Space, said after his companys selection. A crew for the Ax-3 mission to the ISS has not been publicly announced. Axiom Space crew members Rayyanah Barnawi, John Shoffner, Peggy Whitson and Ali Alqarni discuss their mission during their nine-day stay on the International Space Station. (NASA via Axiom Space) The second crew to be sent into space as a profit-making proposition for Texas-based Axiom Space came back to Earth tonight in a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule after spending nine days on the International Space Station. The Ax-2 trip came a year after Axioms first crewed space mission, and marked several firsts: Former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson became the first woman to command a private-sector space mission as Axioms director of human spaceflight, and mission specialist Rayyanah Barnawi became the first Saudi woman in space. Tennessee business executive John Shoffner and Saudi fighter pilot Ali Alqarni rounded out the crew. Shoffner paid his own fare, which was thought to amount to tens of millions of dollars, while Barnawi and Alqarni flew with the backing of the Saudi government. The trip began on May 21 with the launch of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Florida, and ended today with the crews departure from the space station and splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico off the Florida coast. While crew members waited for a recovery ship to pick up their Dragon capsule, which was dubbed Freedom, Whitson described the descent from orbit as a phenomenal ride the same phrase she used after liftoff. We really enjoyed all of it, she told SpaceXs Mission Control. Thanks to her previous space station missions, Whitson holds the U.S. record for cumulative time in space and while she was aboard the station for the Ax-2 mission, she said it really does feel like home. The Axiom Space crew worked with the stations seven long-term residents to conduct more than 20 scientific experiments and technological demonstrations during their stint in orbit. One of the experiments made use of human stem cells cultivated by Seattles Allen Institute for Cell Science to study whether microgravity can aid in the mass production of pluripotent stem cells for therapeutic purposes. Follow-up experiments will be conducted during future Axiom missions. For another experiment, Shoffner tried on a new type of skinsuit that could help future astronauts keep more fit in low-gravity environments. Were evaluating the comfort, the fit and our onboard internal sensing. It was a great run, said Dava Newman, a former NASA executive who is playing a lead role in the research project as director of the MIT Media Lab. Axiom Spaces next commercial crew is due to launch as soon as November, and could include the first Turkish astronaut to go to space. Among others have been mentioned as potential future fliers are Hollywood actor Tom Cruise and the winner of a TV contest called Space Hero. More from GeekWire: Azealia Banks has issued a string of scathing comments about The 1975s Matty Healy, amid scrutiny over the rock frontmans past controversial comments and his rumoured relationship with pop star Taylor Swift. Earlier this month, reports emerged that Swift was spotted holding hands with the British musician, 34, at a restaurant in New York City. Since then, there has been plenty of speculation about their relationship status. The pair are believed to have known each other since at least 2014. Many of Swifts fans have taken issue with the rumoured relationship, however, due to Healys controversial stage antics and a podcast on which he and the hosts appeared to make a number of derogatory remarks about women, including Swifts recent collaborator, rapper Ice Spice. Healy, who is the son of Loose Women star Denise Welch, later addressed his comments during a 1975 concert in New Zealand, where he said he disliked being famous and makes a joke about everything. Ice Spice, Im sorry. Its not because Im annoyed that me joking got misconstrued, he said. Its because I dont want Ice Spice to think Im a d***. I love you, Ice Spice. Im so sorry. Rapper Banks, who has experienced her own controversies in the past, appeared unimpressed by Healys remarks. Does Matt Healy know that no one actually thinks The 1975 make good music and that hes a lame poser with a trash cliche band name that actually means nothing, she wrote on her Instagram Stories, sharing a screenshot of an article about Healys Ice Spice remarks. Hes clearly so pressed that a Black girl who knows nothing about him or his music is making more moves and money than him. Does he know that Black women are more coveted [in] todays industry because theres a BIG BUSINESS in female rap. In a separate Story, Banks urged Swift not to associate with Healy: You cannot be letting him climb the rich white Coochie mountain sis. The Independent has contacted Ice Spice, Swift and Healys representatives for comment. Neither Swift or Healy has explicity addressed the dating rumours surrounding them. However, Healy appeared to allude to the speculation while his band performed at BBC Radio 1s Big Weekend in Dundee on Saturday 27 May, after being spotted at several of Swifts shows on her Eras tour in the US. Speaking on stage as he opened the bands set, Healy said: Is it all a bit? Is it sincere? Will he ever address it? He later added: All of these questions and more will be ignored in the next hour. Ladies and gentlemen, this is The 1975. An 11-month-old baby girl died after her parents left her inside a hot car as they went to church in Florida. Police say that they were called to the Mount of Olives Evangelical Baptist Church in Palm Bay to reports of an unresponsive baby at around 1pm on Sunday. The baby had been left in the vehicle for around three hours while her parents attended the service, according to authorities. She was transported to Palm Bay Community Hospital where she was pronounced dead. This is an unfortunate incident, and our condolences and prayers go out to the family, said Palm Bay Police Chief Mario Augello. An investigation is ongoing and police have not said if any charges will be brought against the parents, who have not been named. According to KidsAndCars.org, Florida is second in the nation for child hot car deaths. Last year there were 36 deaths of children in hot cars in the US, and there have been six so far in 2023, according to the organisations data. The most important thing for people to know is that it can happen to absolutely anyone. Theres no norm to it, said Jeanne Fennell, the president and founder of KidsAndCars.org. The Baltimore Police Department tells Fox News Digital it is investigating a reported assault in which two pro-life activists allegedly were attacked outside a Planned Parenthood clinic by an unknown suspect who apparently opposed their stance on abortion. The victims targeted outside the facility on North Howard Street on Friday were identified by LifeSiteNews as Mark Crosby and Dick Schaefer. "One of our volunteers, Mark Crosby, was brutally beaten on May 26, 2023, while he was praying in front of the Planned Parenthood in Baltimore City," Jay Walton, the president of the Baltimore County Right to Life chapter, wrote on a GoFundMe page. "Mark is currently in the hospital being treated for the serious injuries he sustained." "For years, Mark has prayed in front of the Planned Parenthood in Baltimore City to let the scared, young abortion-minded women know that they are loved, that their baby is loved," Walton added. ACLU SUING TO BLOCK NEBRASKA MEASURE THAT COMBINES BANS ON ABORTION, GENDER SURGERY FOR MINORS Images posted on Waltons Facebook page purportedly showed Crosby, who was wearing a shirt with the message "Pro Life," with swelling over his eye and blood covering his face following the attack. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP In a redacted police report, a Baltimore police officer said one of the victims, who is 73, told investigators he was standing outside the Planned Parenthood clinic Friday morning "in support of Pro-life ideals when an unidentified [white male] attacked another member of the same beliefs as [him]." The individual "stated that he immediately went to assist and was struck by the suspect and fell to the ground where he was struck in the face," the report said. Police say the other victim, who is 80 and suffered a laceration on his hand, "advised the suspect had approached volunteer members of the Planned Parenthood and spoke with them before directing his attention to him. That victim said "the suspect spoke with him in an aggressive manner, opposing [his] pro-life ideals and without warning tackled him into a large flowerpot," the report continued. JUDGE HALTS SOUTH CAROLINAS NEW STRICTER ABORTION LAW UNTIL STATE SUPREME COURT REVIEW The president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Maryland told WBAL that it is "unfortunate that there was an incident that occurred outside our health center." It also noted that several witnesses saw the assault unfold, with one telling investigators that the "conversation between the suspect and [80-year-old victim] was a debate over their ideas about pro-life and pro-choice viewpoints." Video footage reviewed by the officer showed the suspect punching the 73-year-old victim in the head as he was lying on the ground before kicking him with "extreme force" in the face, the report added. The suspect, according to police, was last seen on security cameras several blocks away and is described as wearing a "gray T-shirt, blue jeans, brown shoes with brown hair and a full beard." The 73-year-old victim "was diagnosed with a large hematoma, hyphemia, and head and neck pain but [is] in stable condition," police also said. Walton and Planned Parenthood did not immediately respond Wednesday to requests for comment from Fox News Digital. A Baltimore Police Department spokesman told Fox News Digital on Wednesday that police are investigating the incident, which is being described by authorities as a "reported assault." In a statement to WBAL, Karen Nelson, the president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Maryland, said the organization "does not condone any violence, and I think it is unfortunate that there was an incident that occurred outside our health center. "It's a darn shame that folks who are trying to receive health care have to put up with remarks and comments when they are just trying to go into a facility and receive health care," she added. How being left behind led Hoan Huynh to become the first refugee, Vietnamese American elected to state office in Illinois [Source] Reminiscent of the tropical climate of his home country, then-teenager Hoan Huynh and his family settled in Southern California after escaping the Socialist Republic of Vietnam under communist rule in the early 1990s. Huynh, who was born in 1989 to Vietnamese and Chinese parents shortly after the Vietnam War, recalls living in darkness as he and his family tried to survive under the watchful eye of the new regime in fear of being penalized. Although his father served in the South Vietnamese military and fought alongside United States military forces, Huynh says his family was left behind as the U.S. airlifted dozens of South Vietnamese out of Saigon after the war. My fathers entire family died during that war. They were killed by army forces so he spent five years in a prison camp during the war, Huynh tells NextShark. On my mothers side as well, her dad died during that war. Her house burned down. She, her mother and sister were homeless during the war. More from NextShark: Malaysia set to criminalize all forms of stalking The family survived under communist rule until they received refugee asylum from the U.S., where they were resettled in the early 1990s. Due to his refugee and immigrant background, Huynh would grow up understanding the value of hard work, public service and, most importantly, looking after those left behind. During his youth, Huynh was involved in numerous community services before being accepted into Yale University as a sociology major. A lot of people supported me growing up. A lot of people believed in my potential and my educational goals. I was able to get a scholarship, student loans and part time jobs in Yale University, Huynh shares. More from NextShark: Malaysia to punish women for out-of-wedlock pregnancies and acting like men He learned about the issues surrounding disadvantaged neighborhoods in New Haven as he worked in community organizations on and off campus. A lot of that allowed me to think about the inequities and the lack of economic opportunities particularly for communities of color before I went on to a policy school at Harvard, he says. After obtaining his master's degree at Harvard University, Huynh worked in social innovations at numerous technology startups and small businesses before working in social impact investments and economic development in Chicago, where he got to witness and understand disparities and the disinvestments in certain neighborhoods. More from NextShark: Rep. Matt Gaetz cites CCP-run newspaper designated by US government as propaganda However, it was not until the COVID-19 pandemic that Huynh considered running as a representative of Illinois 13th State House District. We saw people who were left behind during the pandemic. We saw a lot of anti-Asian hate as well and that was eminent in San Francisco, New York and Chicago. It was a huge motivator for me to want to serve because we never had an Asian American represent the North side of the city of Chicago in the General assembly, Huynh says. Despite being the underdog throughout the race, Huynh became the first refugee and the first Vietnamese American to be elected to public office in Illinois state history 204 years and in the Midwest. More from NextShark: Olivia Rodrigo has choice words for SCOTUS overturning of Roe v. Wade at Glastonbury performance A lot of folks did not take us seriously as a candidate at first. A lot of that just goes towards people who have never seen an Asian American represent the north side of Chicago, the State House and the State Senate, Huynh says. I think a lot of that is based on preconceived notions that we have in society of what it means to have Asian American leadership. We've seen this in the data points and studies. It shows that even in companies, Asian Americans are usually stuck in middle management and that theyre not able to break the glass ceilings. We had to run against these societal constructs and make sure that we are perceived as leaders in our state. Huynh and his teams strategy was simply to be on the ground meeting locals in different neighborhoods while making sure they were intentional in language accessibility. We tried our best to make sure we were running on a very inclusive campaign and that people would understand that we were here to listen to them and to address their needs, Huynh says. About 45% of the population of the 13th district, where 90 different languages are spoken, is made up of racial or ethnic minorities. Huynhs refugee and immigrant background has inspired him to introduce House Resolutions that officially recognize and honor veterans of the Vietnam War and the anniversary of the Fall of Saigon. He has also been working to build better opportunities for refugees and immigrants through affordable housing, noting the importance of expanding units to lead refugees from Afghanistan and Ukraine to success. As the pandemic exposed many inequities in the healthcare system, Huynh also hopes to secure healthcare coverage for everyone in the state. Recently in Illinois, we were able to expand healthcare coverage for those who are undocumented immigrants and refugees as well. This is an ongoing process where we are looking at expanding healthcare coverage for everyone in our state, Huynh shares. Moreover, the state representative is working on eliminating barriers for refugees and immigrants, such as ensuring access to legal representation when facing eviction and non-discriminatory drivers licenses. In 2021, Illinois passed The Teaching Equitable Asian American Community History Act, becoming the first state to mandate the teaching of Asian American history. To uplift and support the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community, Huynh says he is pushing for additional funding for the implementation to make sure teachers are well equipped to teach AAPI history. While building a collaborative co-governance model with communities, the state representative has also recently pushed for a grant to cover small businesses as a way to ensure that AAPI businesses are able to succeed and thrive amid the pandemic. Within the AAPI community, there's a lot of diversity so we want to make sure we work with each community collaboratively to come up with different ideas to then translate to actual bills and legislations, Huynh shares. Huynh hopes that he is not the last refugee or Vietnamese American elected into office in Illinois, highlighting the importance of representation in government roles so that minority groups are not left behind. He stresses that he has been very intentional about making sure that his office builds a strong pipeline of young people who are able to enter public service through training and opportunities. I think we have the opportunity to change the narrative right now, Huynh says. It's an ongoing process of pushing to make sure that theres representation. We cant be the last. Russian occupiers deport Ukrainian children "We have evidence that, with the direct participation of the Belarusian authorities, there has been forced displacement of both Ukrainian children, civilians taken hostage, and prisoners of war," said Lubinets. Read also: Ukrainian woman trying to return children illegally deported from occupied territories detained in Moscow Ukraine is investigating the role of Belarus in the deportation of Ukrainian children who were forcibly taken by Russia from occupied territories. The Belarusian opposition has issued a report alleging that the Lukashenko government was involved in the illegal deportation of children from the territories of Ukraine occupied by Russia. Read also: No northern invasion Russias troop size in Belarus has shrunk The report states that 2,150 Ukrainian children, including orphans between the ages of six and 15, were sent to so-called recreation camps and sanatoriums in Belarus. The children were brought to the Golden Sands sanatorium in the Homiel region, the Ostashkovskoe town sanatorium, and the Dibrova camp in Minsk. Lukashenko personally approved the transfer of the children to Belarus and supported it in every way possible, according to the report. On March 17, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and Russias childrens ombudsman, Maria Lvova-Belova, for their involvement in unlawful removal of children from Ukraine since Feb. 24, 2022. On April 27, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe adopted a resolution recognizing the forced displacement of Ukrainian children to Russia as genocide. Read also: Ukraine repatriates 371 forcibly deported children Zelenskyy Ukrainian authorities assert that Russia has removed nearly 20,000 Ukrainian children from the territories it currently occupies. 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 As we approach the summer travel season, many American families are planning special trips to their favorite beach towns, famous cities and even international destinations. But for others, the perfect family vacation involves exploring the great outdoors and doing it right here in our own backyards. National parks have reported record numbers of visitors in recent years, and its easy to see why. They offer breathtaking views, wildlife-watching opportunities, enjoyable hikes and more. And although all national parks provide something for kids to enjoy, some parks are better than others when it comes to visiting with your little ones. We asked seasoned national park visitors and family travel experts to share which of the 63 U.S. national parks they think are best to visit with children. Read on for 10 national parks (and one national monument) to add to your kid-friendly vacation bucket list. Everglades National Park Jupiterimages via Getty Images Everglades National Park Everglades National Park in particular is one of the best national parks for kids, said Will Pattiz, co-founder of More Than Just Parks. Lets start with the American alligator, which is practically the parks mascot. There are an estimated 200,000 alligators in the Everglades, and hiking along the parks Anhinga Trail is almost a surefire way to see one. He noted that the parks location in Florida also makes it easy to combine your visit with the states most famous kid-friendly attraction: Walt Disney World. On top of that, the park has excellent Ranger programs, including guided paddling tours and slough-slogging through the swamp lands, Pattiz said. Badlands National Park Cavan Images via Getty Images Badlands National Park Our favorite national park is the Badlands National Park, which we think is very kid- and family-friendly, said Leona Wandermust, founder of the Wandermust Family travel blog. The combination of wildlife, dramatic scenery and variety of hikes of varying difficulty make it the perfect family-friendly destination. She recommended visiting the South Dakota site in the summer for the best weather and noted that there are a variety of lodging options for families of all sizes and budgets, from campgrounds to on-site lodges to accommodations in nearby towns and cities. If you are traveling with teenagers and more accomplished hikers, then you can tackle the Notch Trail with its rough terrain and ladder access, Wandermust said. However, even if you are traveling with toddlers or younger kids, you will find trails that are suitable for every ability. Dinosaur-mad kids will also be fascinated by the Fossil Exhibit Trail and the story of fossils being found in the park, including a large triceratops skull in 2019. Grand Teton National Park JohnnyGreig via Getty Images Grand Teton National Park Families love Grand Teton National Park for its wildlife, striking landscapes and variety of trails, said Gunjan Prakash, CEO and founder of Families Love Travel. Plus, summer offers relatively mild temperatures. Whether youre visiting Grand Teton in Wyoming or another park, she recommended the Junior Ranger program for children. This is a great way for kids to learn about the national park they are exploring, as well as its animal and plant life, Prakash said. Plus, they get a chance to speak with the Park Rangers! Families with fourth graders should also participate in the Every Kid Outdoors program, which allows all fourth graders and their families to experience our national parks, lands and waters for free. Carlsbad Caverns National Park Doug Meek via Getty Images Carlsbad Caverns National Park Parks and Points founders Derek Wright and Amy Beth Wright recommend Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico for a living science lesson and striking sensory experience. Most of this park is deep underground, an adventure into a completely different world than anything one might see above ground, they told HuffPost. The caverns are never-ending and full of magic and wonder. Sounds travel far in the cave. The National Park Service interprets how the caverns formed and the many underground features within for all age groups. The Wrights pointed to unique features like Dolls Theater, The Caveman and the Hall of the Giants. The evening bat flights from Memorial Day through October also provide a unique spectacle. If traveling with younger children and adults, take the elevator down to the cavern floors, also known as The Big Room, they advised. From there, many of the main pathways are paved and have handrails. This is a very accessible park. Strollers are not permitted; however, baby backpacks are. If you have older children or kids with a lot of energy, walk the Natural Entrance 750 feet down to The Big Room. The ever-downward path twists, turns, with ups and downs, and is a bit over a mile, though it might be one of the most spectacular miles you and your kids will walk. Speaking of kids, the caverns were first discovered and explored by a teenager, Jim White, back in 1898! the couple added. Yellowstone National Park Photography by Deb Snelson via Getty Images Yellowstone National Park For a great kid-friendly park, I immediately think of the worlds first national park, Yellowstone, said Jim Pattiz, the other co-founder of More Than Just Parks. Steeped in history and natural beauty, this venerated park more than lives up to the hype, especially with kids. He touted the large number of developed amenities, such as bathrooms, lodges, gift shops, visitor centers, restaurants and gas stations, which help take the stress out of a vacation with restless kids. Short hiking trails, big wildlife factor and geological wonders abound, said Janel Jensen, a travel program manager for REI Adventures. Towering mountains, dense forests and craggy canyons provide an otherworldly landscape. There are many ways that families can enjoy the park by backcountry, lake, thermal features or even a cruise on Lake Yellowstone to see a shipwreck. Kids love volcanoes, and seismic and volcanic action can be viewed in all its forms vents, gurgling mud pots, 500 geysers and more. Having a couple geysers on a specific timetable helps with planning naps and meals. She also praised the excellent animal spotting opportunities in the park, which straddles parts of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. Yellowstone is often called the American Serengeti due to the largest concentrations of wildlife in the United States, including elk, bears, bighorn sheep and 1,000-pound bison,Jensen said. There are lots of places to fish in calm and shallow rivers and streams. Not to mention that kids 15 and younger dont need a license. Grand Canyon National Park Dean Fikar via Getty Images Grand Canyon National Park Introduce your kids to one of the seven natural wonders of the world! Jensen urged. This is where geology, dating back 70 million years, comes to life. Everything is centralized, so you can park in one place, like the Grand Canyon Village, and walk or take the park shuttle. For a family-friendly hike at the Arizona park, she recommended South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point, which takes about an hour and a half and offers a different perspective looking up at the rim and the canyons colorful walls. Another family-friendly option is to join one of the many ranger-assisted programs through the visitor center, geology museum or Hopi House, Jensen added. Join one of the night sky talks at Yavapai Lodge, where kids can view the sky through telescopes and see the Milky Way Galaxy up close. Great Smoky Mountains National Park KenCanning via Getty Images Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park is so family friendly, Jensen said. Experience easy hikes amongst old-growth giants and past settlers homesteads, splash and swim in the numerous pools and waterfalls throughout the park, go trout fishing and more. Families can reserve campsites in advance or enter the lottery to stay in the parks one on-site lodge. Otherwise, book a family-friendly hotel in nearby Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. As for activities, Jensen recommended choosing whichever of the miles of trails are best suited to your familys ability. You can even choose a hike along the famous Appalachian Trail and hike the paths that had been used by local Native Americans to local settlers and now hikers, she said. And just outside the park borders, go whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River or experience an aerial challenge course and zip line adventure. Yosemite National Park tiffanynguyen via Getty Images Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park is one of the most stroller-friendly national parks, with a great tram system, easy trails and many accessible scenic views, including rivers and waterfalls, Prakash said. Families can sometimes spot black bears during their visit to the national park in eastern California. Mule deer, marmots, raccoons, bighorn sheep and many other creatures also call the park home. Wilderness exploration is the main activity, with lots of trails to view the waterfalls, granite peaks and majestic giant sequoia, Jensen said You will find shops, restaurants and the Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite Village if you need a nature break. There are lots of hiking options and even a few flat, short trails that are stroller-accessible, but get your kids ready to climb if you want to cover more than a couple miles! She also recommended swimming or lounging on the sandy beaches along some of the parks bodies of water, like the popular Tenaya Lake. Rocky Mountain National Park Mark Newman via Getty Images Rocky Mountain National Park When thinking about the best national parks to visit with kids, we look for parks that offer a variety of hiking trails both in terms of difficulty and also scenery, as well as parks with fun seasonal features, on-site kid-friendly lodging and nearby activities available for families, Prakash said. Rocky Mountain National Park is a great option for families because kids can spot wildlife, hike, play in the lake and more, while parents appreciate the opportunity to stay in Estes Park or in one of the on-site cabins. Plus, the area offers a variety of fun things to do for all ages. She recommended checking on any permit and reservation requirements and booking those well in advance while planning a visit to the Colorado site. We recommend that families travel to national parks during the off-season when they can, Prakash added. National parks are fantastic for holiday and spring break trips because they are less crowded and, for many parks, the weather is milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities. Zion National Park Taha Raja via Getty Images Zion National Park Zion National Park is a red-rock wonderland for families, Jensen said. Its only a three-hour drive from Las Vegas, and Springdale is an excellent walkable gateway town with a variety of lodging options, restaurants and shops. The park shuttle services Springdale, and its just a 1-mile walk or drive to the main visitor center and park entrance. She recommended starting with easy hikes at the Utah park, like the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail, which has great views, and then graduating to more moderate options like the Emerald Pools Trail, which features a scenic waterfall. There are lots of swimming opportunities in the Narrows and along the Virgin River, Jensen added. The Pine Creek Waterfall swimming hole is an off-the-beaten-path in the park. Tubing down the Virgin River is a summertime fun activity and great way to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the park. Tip: Check water safety due to routine algae bloom via National Park Service bulletins or ask at a visitors center upon arrival. Dinosaur National Monument Posnov via Getty Images Dinosaur National Monument While not one of the 63 U.S. national parks, Dinosaur National Monument, on the Colorado-Utah border, is also operated by the National Park Service and is understandably a popular option for families. Every kid I know loves dinosaurs, and there is a massive wall of dinosaur bones you can view at this park, said national parks travel expert Mikah Meyer. Theres even one the Park Service lets you touch! Hello dream for every 'Jurassic Park' fan! In addition to the dinosaur bone wall and many accessible hiking trails, he noted that the main visitor center has tons of exhibits and information about dinosaurs that will also appeal to kids. Beyond that, Dinosaur National Monument is one of the most epic sites in the National Park Service but only receives 7% as many visitors annually as nearby Zion National Park or Rocky Mountain National Park, he explained. That means you dont have to worry about being stuck in traffic with an overheated kid in the backseat watching an iPad while youre surrounded by amazing nature. CORRECTION: A previous version of this article included a photo incorrectly labeled as Rocky Mountain National Park. Related... Tara Reade, the former Senate aide who in 2020 accused then-Presidential candidate Joe Biden of sexually assaulting her nearly three decades earlier, has fled the U.S. for Russia and asked President Vladimir Putin for citizenship. Reade made her surprise announcement on Tuesday in a lengthy interview with the pro-Russian Sputnik media organization. She appeared on a broadcast alongside Maria Butina, a suspected Kremlin spy who spent 13 months in a U.S. federal prison before being deported back to Russia in 2019, and thanked Butina for her assistance. Biden has denied the allegations made by Reade, who claimed Tuesday that her continuing efforts to speak out publicly about the president made her feel unsafe about living in the United States. "I'm still kind of in a daze a bit but I feel very good," Reade told Sputnik, saying she made the very difficult decision to leave the United States because of her security concerns. She stopped short of saying she was formally defecting and renouncing her U.S. citizenship. My dream is to live in both places, but it may be that I only live in this place and that's okay," Reade said. During the joint appearance, Reade described Butina as "my friend," and Masha, a fond Russian diminutive of Maria. "We've known each other for quite some time now," Butina said in asking Putin himself to fast track Reades citizenship request. More: Read Joe Biden's full statement on Tara Reade's sexual assault allegation "I feel very surrounded by protection and safety" in Russia, Reade said. "And I just really so appreciate Maria [Butina] and everyone who's been giving me that at a time when it's been very difficult to know if I'm safe or not. I just didn't want to walk home and walk into a cage or be killed, which is basically my two choices, Reade said. Reade didnt specify why she felt threatened in the United States or provide details about how she ended up in Russia. But she hinted that the timing was related to her interest in talking publicly about her alleged relationship with Biden long ago, especially with the 2024 presidential election campaign heating up. Puzzled by Reade's circumstances Several former U.S. intelligence officials told USA TODAY that they were puzzled by Reade's actions and public statements and highly suspicious of them. Former CIA analyst Gail Helt watched the entire Russian media broadcast and said Reades sudden appearance in Moscow, and her association with Butina, has all the hallmarks of a Russian information operation whether Reade knows it or not. She acknowledges and thanks Maria Butina, calls her a friend and suggests that they've been friends for years. So, if you have known her for years, was she influencing you in 2019 when you accused Joe Biden? I mean, there's a lot that was really fishy about that TV appearance, Helt told USA TODAY. A possible link to Putin? Asked about Reade's case, White House spokesman John Kirby said he didnt want to speculate on why a U.S. citizen had decided to move to Russia, request citizenship directly from Vladimir Putin and denounce the United States. That's really for her speak to, Kirby said at the White House briefing Wednesday afternoon. The one thing I will say is that allegations that her life was at risk by the United States government (are) absolutely false, baseless, theres nothing to that. Asked if the White House believed Reade may have been influenced by the Russian government, Kirby said, Again, I would let this prospective Russian citizen speak for her intentions and motivations. But, Kirby added, It's a matter of record that Mr. Putin and the Russian government have tried to interfere, actually did interfere, in our elections going back as far as 2016. It should come as no surprise to anybody that Mr. Putin would show an interest in making it hard for President Biden to win election and to try to interfere in his ability to govern as president of the United States, Kirby said. But whether this particular move by this particular individual is some sort of Russian information op or propaganda campaign, I just don't know. Kirby said he had not seen any information that would link Reade to Russian information operations. A Biden accuser in 2019, and again in 2020 Reade first came forward with her allegations against Biden in 2019 when she was one of several women who accused him of kissing, hugging or touching them in ways that made them feel uncomfortable. Then, in a March 2020 podcast, Reade accused Biden then the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee of inappropriately touching her in a Capitol Hill building 27 years earlier, when she worked in Biden's Delaware Senate office in 1993. Biden has repeatedly and vehemently denied Reade's allegations, and so have some key staffers who worked with both of them in at the time. Last December, Reade called on House Republicans to use their new majority to investigate Biden, and to call her as a witness to testify against him. "I think we need to have the conversation, instead of me being erased, and other women that were erased that tried to come forward," she told the conservative news outlet The Daily Caller. Also in December, Russian officials moved to invite Reade to appear before the United Nations Security Council, purportedly as an expert witness on weapons trafficking, according to the U.S. media outlet Semafor, Reade appeared to reference those efforts in her Russian media appearance, saying that, based on what was happening and sort of the push for them to not want me to testify, I felt that while this election is gearing up and there's so much at stake, I'm almost better off here and just being safe. Ties to a Russian state agent Butina was a young American University graduate student who charmed Republican and NRA high rollers before the FBI arrested her in Washington in 2018 on suspicion of acting as a Russian intelligence asset. Since returning to Russia, she has become a media star and celebrity of sorts, and now serves in the Russian parliament as a representative of Putins political party. During their joint media appearance Tuesday, Reade praised Russia and Putin specifically, and criticized America especially the few Washington elites who are determined to cause problems between the two superpowers. Russian President Vladimir Putin gives a speech during the Victory Day military parade at Red Square in central Moscow on May 9, 2023. Reade also criticized the NATO alliance, and said she wasn't the only American who has forsaken the U.S. for Russia. "There are many Americans here, and I don't want to out a bunch of Americans, but there are people here that are coming to Russia - much like back in the day when Soviet Union people defected over to the US - now you have the opposite," she said. "Now you have US and European citizens looking for safe haven here. And luckily, the Kremlin is accommodating. So we're lucky." The Sputnik news story said Reade's message to other Americans is that they should take action to protect themselves and their families "and to really look at who you're voting for." A Russian sympathizer, but maybe something else? Javed Ali, a former senior U.S. law enforcement and intelligence official, said that given Reade's self-described relationship with Butina, it's possible that Russia helped facilitate her move to Russia as part of an anti-U.S. propaganda campaign. "Reade's recent defection to Russia, combined with her past activities and unusual behavior seems to fit more the pattern of a pro-Russian American sympathizer (than) a trained asset of the Russian intelligence services or an actual intelligence officer themselves," said Ali, a senior National Security Council official in the Trump administration, who also spent 16 years in top national security positions at the Defense Intelligence Agency, Department of Homeland Security and FBI. Given her Biden-bashing, "At some point Russian intelligence personnel may have tried to recruit Reade and carry out taskings on their behalf," Ali said. But if so, "those efforts seem to have been fallen far short of their original objectives. " On the broadcast, Reade is highly critical of the United States and very complimentary of Russia, and Butina and Putin himself. She's out there downplaying and dissing the United States, saying that our inflation is at 40%, which of course it is not, that gas prices have never been higher, that child poverty has never been higher, homelessness has never been higher, said Helt, who left the CIA in 2014 after a dozen years traveling the world, and writing for and briefing the senior-most U.S. policymakers. I mean, you want to talk about a Russian information operation, that is one. I was just horrified. It offended me viscerally. Helt said that one of Russias specialties is persuading unwitting Americans to do their bidding, including undermining the United States through the criticism of one of its own citizens. To me, if I'm an intelligence officer watching that, I think she could absolutely be a Russian asset. She could be witting or unwitting. But when she shows up in Moscow, I think she's witting at that point. Contributing: Maureen Groppe This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden accuser Tara Reade flees to Moscow, criticizes US as unsafe President Biden has nominated the Marine Corps No. 2 commanding officer, Gen. Eric Smith, to take the helm of the military branch later this year, according to a notice received by the Senate Tuesday. Smith, the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps since October 2021, is a veteran of the counterinsurgency wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He more recently played a part in revamping the service for the future, looking toward countering China in the Indo-Pacific after decades of conflict in the Middle East. The White House has not released a statement on Smiths nomination as of Wednesday afternoon. Should his nomination be confirmed, Smith, 58, would replace Gen. David Berger, Marine Corps commandant since July 2019. Berger will soon wrap up his four-year term. Smiths nomination also comes as the Biden administration is choosing the next iteration of military leaders, including the heads of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Army and Air Force amid officer retirements. Biden last week nominated Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr. to replace Army Gen. Mark Milley as Joint Chiefs chairman. His Air Force replacement has yet to be named. And in April, the president nominated Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George to replace Gen. James McConville as chief of staff of the Army. Smith, a career infantry officer, was commissioned in 1987 and has since commanded at every level. He operated in Liberia and Venezuela and served multiple tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, later becoming the senior military adviser to former Defense Secretary Ash Carter from 2015 to 2017. In 2019 he became deputy commandant for combat development and integration, helping shepherd Force Design 2030, Bergers somewhat controversial plan for the Marine Corps future. The idea focuses on investing more in the development of drones and long-range missiles over tanks and howitzer artillery, with an eye toward operating in the Pacific. Smith has defended the design; in February, he said the plan is critical for the future against enemies with high-tech capabilities. I love tanks. I used them in Iraq; I used them in Afghanistan, Smith said at a naval conference, before adding that they cant move quickly enough to avoid new, advanced weaponry. And speaking at a conference last year, he vehemently supported the shift to focus on China. For those who say, Well, you shouldnt be focused on China, China is the pacing threat, but [that] doesnt mean youre not also capable of dealing with Russia, North Korea or Iran. Its that you always go against the fastest runner, and then you hope that the next runner is a little bit slower. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A woman who accused Joe Biden of sexual assault during the 2020 presidential race appeared Tuesday in Moscow and said she was asking President Vladimir Putin for Russian citizenship. Tara Reade, who worked in now-President Biden's congressional office for a short period in 1993, said she wanted to stay in Russia after a Republican lawmaker told her she was in physical danger. Reade, 59, said in an interview streamed by the Sputnik media group a Russian press outlet that she'd arrived in Russia as a vacationer. "When I got off the plane in Moscow, for the first time in a very long time, I felt safe. And I felt heard and felt respected," she said. "I'm still kind of in a daze a bit, but I feel very good," she said. "I feel very surrounded by protection and safety." Reade sparked headlines in early 2020 by claiming in a podcast that Mr. Biden, who was a senator at the time, sexually assaulted her in a Capitol Hill corridor in August 1993, when she was 29. Her accusation came just as Mr. Biden was ramping up his campaign against incumbent President Donald Trump, who himself has faced accusations of sexual abuse and rape. Mr. Biden categorically denied her claim. "It is not true. I'm saying unequivocally it never, never happened," he said. Tara Reade posing for a photo during an April 2019 interview with The Associated Press in Nevada City, Calif. / Credit: AP Photo / Donald Thompson Reade said she filed a complaint after the alleged incident, but no record of it has been found, and it's not clear if her allegations have ever been formally investigated. A 1996 court document says her ex-husband mentioned that she'd complained of sexual harassment while working in Mr. Biden's office. Reade, who called herself a geopolitical analyst, said in the Sputnik interview that after making her allegations public in 2020, she was threatened with prison, her life was threatened, and she was called a Russian agent. Sitting alongside Maria Butina a current member of Russia's parliament who was arrested and imprisoned in Washington in July 2018 as an alleged spy for Russia, before being released in October 2019 and deported Reade told the interviewer she has "always loved Russia." "I do not see Russia as an enemy, nor do many of my fellow American citizens," she said, adding that she had one "large" request. Though she wants to hold on to her U.S. citizenship, she said she'd "like to apply for citizenship in Russia, from the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin. ... I do promise to be a good citizen." Asked for comment about Reade's request, White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates responded Wednesday, "I won't attempt to speak for an aspiring Russian citizen, the convicted Russian spy who's sponsoring her or the foreign government with which she has chosen to align." According to The Guardian, Reade said of Butina, "I just really so appreciate Maria and everyone who's been giving me [protection] at a time when it's been very difficult to know if I'm safe or not. I just didn't want to walk home and walk into a cage or be killed, which is basically my two choices." Nancy Cordes contributed to this report. Chimp reunites with caretakers after six years Republican Rep. Dusty Johnson says debt limit bill will pass Petraeus deems Russian winter offensive a failure as Ukraine is blamed for attacks on Russia Carolyn Van Houten/The Washington Post via Getty Images Though the world has mostly wound down the last vestiges of emergency pandemic restrictions, the effects of COVID will be felt for years. For some individuals, its a matter of personal healthand there are no signs that things will get better any time soon. A new Swiss study published in BMJ Wednesday reveals that more than one out every six unvaccinated people who have previously come down with COVID have not returned to normal health up to two years after infection. The findings underscore the concerns around long COVID, as scientists continue to be stumped over how and why the aftereffects of infection linger for so long for some individuals. But the new study also reiterates urgency to get vaccinatedthe best prevention against long COVID continues to be vaccination. The new findings are based on the experiences of 1,106 unvaccinated adults living in Switzerland, who were an average age of 50, and had a confirmed COVID infection between August 6, 2020 and January 19, 2021. Participants reported on information pertaining to 23 potential symptoms of long COVID at 12, 18, and 24 months after infection had subsided. Those symptoms included physical pain, malaise, altered taste and smell, shortness of breath, mental health issues, and anxiety. The study also took a look at 628 Swiss adults who had never contracted the virus. These Are the 12 Major Symptoms of Long COVID What the researchers found was that 55 percent of the previously infected population who were unvaccinated returned to normal health less than a month after they were cleared of the virus, and 18 percent were back to normal by three months. But by six months, 23 percent still had not recovered. By 12 months, 19 percent were still experiencing symptoms; and by 24 months 17 percent had not fully recovered. Those unvaccinated individuals who didnt recover quickly were more likely to be older or have pre-existing health issues. The study does have its share of limitations. For one, the findings are based solely on a Swiss population. And they are based on self-reported health, which is less reliable than a doctors assessment. Stanford Was Conducting a Long COVID Study. Then the Staff Stopped Masking. Still, the new study adds on to concerns about the prevalence of long COVID, especially for the unvaccinated. Its only recently that health authorities in the U.S. provided a clearer definition of what long COVID is and what kinds of symptoms patients experience. Although COVID has moved to the background of peoples minds, vaccination remains paramount to ensuring that an infection does not lead to worsened symptoms that last for months or even years. Post-COVID-19 condition remains a global public health crisis, University of Southern California population health researcher Qiao Wu, who was not involved in the study, wrote in a BMJ editorial accompanying the study. Understanding the trajectory of symptom burden and recovery from post-COVID-19 condition is crucial for policy making, treatment decisions, and care coordination. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Bill Ackman calls on JPMorgan CEO Dimon to run for US president (Reuters) -Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman said Jamie Dimon should run for president in the next U.S. elections after the JPMorgan Chase & Co CEO expressed his interest in pursuing a public office. "I love my country, and maybe one day I'll serve my country in one capacity or another," Dimon said in an interview with Bloomberg TV earlier on Wednesday, when asked if he would ever consider public office. Ackman called Dimon an "exemplary leader" and lauded him for having "superbly managed" JPMorgan through every crisis. "Our country is at risk with $32T (trillion) of debt with no end to massive deficits in sight, heading into a recession at a time of great political uncertainty," Ackman said in a tweet on Wednesday. "... Clearly he is thinking about running. I can't imagine a better time for him to do so," Ackman said. There have been speculations about Dimon's potential presidential run in the future. At a conference in 2018, he reportedly quipped about hypothetically campaigning against then-president Donald Trump. "I think I could beat Trump ... because I'm as tough as he is, I'm smarter than he is," he said, according to a report. Dimon later walked back on those comments, saying that the remark proved he would not make a good politician. "If he decides to get out of banking, I think he would be really good in politics," former President Bill Clinton once said of Dimon. A spokesperson for JPMorgan declined to comment. Dimon is currently on his first visit to China since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ackman, who runs Pershing Square Capital Management and has a bulging Rolodex filled with Wall Street bankers, corporate executives and politicians, has been using Twitter more extensively ever since he announced last year that he was retiring from "vocal" activist investing life. He has most recently weighed in on the banking crisis and urged the United States to raise FDIC insurance to shore up confidence. In the 2016 presidential election, Ackman had urged former New York City Mayor and billionaire Michael Bloomberg to run for president. (Reporting by Niket Nishant in Bengaluru and Svea Herbst-Bayliss in New York; additional reporting by Jaiveer Shekhawat in Bengaluru Editing by Anil D'Silva) The billionaire family that owns Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin, will receive immunity from all current and future civil claims over the companys role in the opioid crisis as part of a deal approved by a federal appeals court on Tuesday. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit cleared the way for a settlement that would see the Sackler family pay up to $6 billion from its massive fortune derived from the painkiller business. Purdue Pharma has faced years of criticism that it helped fuel the opioid crisis in America, aggressively marketing OxyContin while misleading the public about the highly addictive pills. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2019 amid a crush of lawsuits, but the massive settlement had been held up after a judge said in 2021 that the Sacklers, who didnt file for bankruptcy themselves, couldnt be protected from liability. States, local governments and those affected by the spread of opioids had grown frustrated after waiting years to see money disbursed to communities to help treat addiction and fund prevention programs while the crisis has only grown, now fueled by a surge in fentanyl use. Tuesdays decision could finally resolve those cases, despite initial frustration surrounding the immunity deal. Under the plan, Purdue will be dissolved and restructured into a new entity known as Knoa Pharma. The company will be overseen by a public board and will manufacture medications for addiction treatment, as well as OxyContin, with the profits used to fund programs that prevent and treat addiction itself. Those profits could total in the hundreds of millions of dollars over time. About $750 million from the settlement will go to families and individuals affected by the opioid crisis. Payments are expected to range from about $3,500 to $48,000. Connecticut Attorney General William Tong accused the Sacklers of cravenly hiding behind the countrys bankruptcy code on Tuesday. He added that, although the state was frustrated with the immunity protections, the settlement will ultimately give direct relief to families of victims and survivors of addiction. Therell never be enough justice to match the depths of pain and suffering the Sackler family caused, Tong said in a statement. But we recognized that we had pushed this as far as we could, and that it was necessary to get communities, victims and their families the resolution and billions of dollars funding desperately needed to save lives and fight the opioid epidemic. What this decision does not change is the fact that Connecticut led our sister states to a $6 billion settlement that will fund critical treatment and prevention efforts across the country, and will give direct relief to families of victims and survivors of addiction. AG William Tong (@AGWilliamTong) May 30, 2023 The settlement could be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, but that outcome is unlikely as almost all parties have signed on to the deal. The protections for the Sacklers do not extend to any criminal prosecutions that could arise in the future. The families of the two brothers who founded Purdue said Tuesday they were pleased with the decision and look forward to it taking effect as soon as possible. The Sackler families believe the long-awaited implementation of this resolution is critical to providing substantial resources for people and communities in need, the statement said. Other drug manufacturers and pharmacy chains have faced other lawsuits for their ties to the opioid crisis. CVS and Walgreens announced their own settlements last year totaling $10 billion after years of litigation. Related... Black-led organizations are working to stop the spread of legislation reinstating the death penalty, citing the outsized impact the punishment would have on Black incarcerated Americans. The effort is a response to a resurgence of legislation in states controlled by Republicans that seek to step up the use of the death penalty. In Tennessee, a law that would require execution to be carried out within 30 days of sentencing, limiting the possibility for appeals, is in the docks. In Florida, SB450 would require only eight out of 12 jurors to agree to a death sentence for it to be carried out while SB1342 would prevent the judge from reducing a jurys death sentence to life in prison. Other states, including Illinois and New Jersey, are considering reinstating the death penalty. The groups pushing back against these efforts note they will disproportionately affect people of color. Since 1976, Black and Brown Americans have accounted for 43 percent of total executions, according to the American Civil Liberties Union. Non-white Americans also make up 55 percent of incarcerated people currently awaiting execution. Jamila Hodge, executive director of Equal Justice USA, said there could be a few reasons for the renewed effort to bring back capital punishment, such as an uptick in gun violence and crime. But she also believes one of the contributing factors has been the spread of anti-Black rhetoric. The rhetoric around race that has really permeated the last probably two or three years where anything that has to do with Black history or understanding the role of institutional racism is being attacked by certain political factions, and these are states where those factions are stronger, Hodge told The Hill. Though Black people make up around 13 percent of the countrys population, they account for about 38 percent of jail and prison populations. Forty-one percent of death row inmates are Black. The death penalty has long faced debates in the U.S. In the Supreme Courts 1972 Furman v. Georgia ruling, capital punishment was declared unconstitutional for violating cruel and unusual punishment laws because of the lack of consistency in who was given a death sentence and who was not. Over the next four years, 35 states wrote new laws on capital punishment. Despite this, the court would strike down the death penalty for crimes that did not result in death, including the 1977 Coker v. Georgia case in which the justices said the death penalty for the crime of raping an adult woman was unconstitutional. They would uphold this ruling in 2008, striking down the death penalty as punishment for raping a child. As time has gone on, support for the death penalty has fluctuated. About 60 percent of adults favor the death penalty for convicted murderers, according to Pew Research Center, but more than half of adults say Black people are more likely than whites to be sentenced to death for similar crimes. Another 63 percent dont believe the death penalty deters people from committing serious crimes, and 78 percent worry about the risk that an innocent person will be executed. If the death penalty is reinstated, or if we start seeing it applied more, we can expect its going to be applied in a disproportionate way and that those are the same racial disparities that we have seen over years, said Hodge. My concern is it may even increase because the rhetoric lately has been so much stronger. We have to know that if were going to punish more, that its going to be disproportionately borne by Black and Brown communities. Twenty-seven states currently allow the death penalty, though multiple states including Arizona, Delaware and South Carolina have proposals that would abolish capital punishment. For states like Nebraska, where a 2015 vote repealed capital punishment, the death penalty may be voted back into law. And not all returning citizens can have a say in stopping this. In many states, returning citizens are barred from voting. The effects lead to difficulties with lobbying for change, said Topeka K. Sam, founder and executive director of Ladies of Hope Ministries. Often what happens when youre locking people out of, lets say voting rights, then youre not looking at the people who cant vote because they wont affect your candidacy, said Sam. Thats how a lot of lawmakers see it: Why do I care? They cant vote for me. But in states where ex-convicts can vote, she added, these returning citizens arent always aware of their rights and neither are their family members. While there may be people who dont know that they can vote once theyve been released and are off of probation, their family members stopped voting because they dont believe in the process, she said. Sam is intimately familiar with the incarceration and parole systems. She was incarcerated in a federal prison until 2015, and she saw firsthand the difficulties both within and outside of prison walls. But its not just capital punishment that Black organizers like Sam are focused on. Part of ending the death penalty includes addressing a system that perpetuates high rates of recidivism. Many of the women that I talked to, they were scared, they didnt know where they would go, said Sam. Their husbands divorced them. They lost their children. Their parents or family passed away because they had been in prison for decades. They were going to be subjected to getting back in abusive relationships just to have a roof over their head or back into sex work just to survive. Some 3.7 million adults are under community supervision, according to the Prison Policy Initiative, with 2.9 million of those people on probation and around 800,000 on parole. Many of these individuals end up back incarcerated due to minor infractions, according to Robert Rooks, CEO of REFORM Alliance. Black people are more than twice as likely to be on probation, nearly four times as likely to be on parole as white people, Rooks told The Hill. Black people are more likely to have their parole revoked on a technical violation than their white counterparts 50 percent of those technical violations are Black folks. Rooks has known parolees returned to prison for staying out past curfew or even for something as small as making an illegal u-turn. Some have been returned for associating with others engaging in criminal activity. While this sounds logical, Rooks points out that returning citizens often go back to the same neighborhoods they were arrested in, and those neighborhoods often have high rates of crime due to the lack of resources and investment. Therefore, the likelihood these parolees may associate with someone involved in crime is fairly high. These stipulations add to the nearly 40,000 legal barriers that returning citizens face. Some of these barriers include limited job and educational opportunities, ineligibility for public benefits, including public housing, and even difficulties opening bank accounts. Most often, people are excluded and unbanked coming home from incarceration, said Sam. Seventy-five percent of all people who are released from prison will remain unemployed and unbanked for the first three years post incarceration, and that is also the timeframe of where people go back and where the recidivism rates are high. But others, Sam said, end up reincarcerated due to a lack of resources to help serious conditions like health issues. When an individual is released from prison, theyre given only a 30-day supply of medication they might be on. For some, this leads to a path fighting for survival, mental health episodes and the potential for substance misuse. Thats why organizations like EJUSA are working to steer the conversation away from punishment and instead spotlight what exactly these issues are and why death wont solve the problem. People just assume we need the harshest punishment possible as a deterrent, Hodge explained. So if we think about a homicide, if we have the harshest penalty then thats how were going to keep people from causing that level of harm, and its just not true. What research does show is what will make people pause at the moment is fear of apprehension, she added. And so thats why things like having street lights that are working in neighborhoods and keeping areas well lit, having spaces where people can be out and parks and green spaces maintained all of those things will deter others. Advocates like Rooks with REFORM are also calling for increased focus on community issues to address the root causes of incarceration: poverty, lack of opportunity, even health issues. There are many reasons why someone ends up in a criminal justice system, Rooks said. Something happened, broke down. They are dealing with perhaps substance abuse, mental health issues, or frankly, they could be poor and not have a place to stay. I think you not only just help the individual, but you help the community when you find out what those root causes are and then you start working to address them. Sam also wants to see more services available for those who have been released from incarceration. Ladies of Hope currently offers a range of services including access to education, training and health care. These changes, Hodge said, will help adjust the carceral system to one based on rehabilitation. In our culture, justice means punishment, so when we say were going to get justice for someone, even when its a police killing, what we usually are talking about is punishment, and we have to help people peel back that definition, Hodge said. Updated at 11:21 a.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Black mother-daughter duo make history as they graduate from US Naval Academy Elise Lindsay noted that seeing life as a midshipman and living on the yard were factors that influenced her decision to follow in the footsteps of her mother, retired Captain Timika Lindsay. A retired Navy captain and her daughter will go down in history as the first such African American duo to graduate from the United States Naval Academy in 177 years. Capt. Timika Lindsay, who served in the Navy for 30 years, was one of the highest-ranking African American female captains before she retired in 2021, WTOP News reported. Elise Lindsay, her daughter, developed an interest in attending while her mother was in her last duty station at the academy, where she worked as the head diversity officer. A retired Navy captain and her daughter are the first-of-their-kind African American duo to graduate from the United States Naval Academy in 177 years. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock) An Elizabeth Seton High School student in Maryland at the time, Elise noted that seeing life as a midshipman, living on the yard, and attending events all influenced her decision to follow in her mothers footsteps. If you wouldve asked me if this was a possibility seven years ago, said Timika, I wouldve said no way in the world. The veteran also disclosed that in 2015, before beginning her academy tour, she took her children to Japan, where they gained exposure to fleet life and kids going through similar experiences as part of a military family. Ensign Elise Lindsays graduation on Friday etched her and her mother into the annals of the Naval Academy, where they both majored in general science. The midshipman acknowledged that she faced challenges while attending the academy but cited being referred to as Captain Lindsays daughter as one of the greatest. However, she said she eventually established her reputation and cultivated connections with mentors and mentees. Soon, she will return to Japan, where she will be stationed on the USS America. Eric Jr., Timikas son, is expected to earn his diploma from the academy in 2025. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post Black mother-daughter duo make history as they graduate from US Naval Academy appeared first on TheGrio. The Black teen in a viral bike feud with a white woman said she 'did something wrong' but got 'rewarded' with over $130,000 in donations The viral video shows an NYC hospital worker arguing with a young Black man over a rental bike. Twitter/@Imposter_Edits The Black teen in the viral rental-bike feud says the woman was the one who "did something wrong." But she was "rewarded" with more than $130,000 in donations for legal bills, the teen told NewsOne. The teen's family said they got public assistance and couldn't afford their own lawyer. The Black teen whose rental-bike feud with a white New York City hospital worker went viral said the woman was the one who "did something wrong" but instead got "rewarded" by "white conservatives" after she received more than $100,000 in donations. Video of the confrontation between the teen and Sarah Comrie showed the pair arguing over a rental bike, with the teen accusing Comrie of taking his bike and Comrie yelling for help. A clip of the incident was viewed millions of times on social media, and Comrie faced widespread backlash for how she reacted, with some critics accusing her of racism. Comrie's attorney, Justin Marino, previously confirmed Comrie was involved and told Insider that his client "reserved" the bike. Marino said the teen and a group of friends "pushed the bike back into the docking station, preventing her from taking it out again." A receipt previously shared with Insider appears to show Comrie's payment for the same Citi Bike the teen rode earlier in the day. But the 17-year-old said he was taking a break with the bike at the time and had receipts to show he had used it, according to NewsOne. The teen who spoke using a pseudonym told NewsOne that he rented the bike on May 12 but docked it at the bike station in Manhattan to reset the timer so he wouldn't be charged extra for going over a 45-minute ride. Receipts shared by the teen and published by NewsOne appear to show that he rode the specific Citi Bike around New York City just before the confrontation. NewsOne reported that the teen said Comrie approached them and asked two of his friends if she could use the bikes before she asked him, "Can I please have this bike?" Like his pals, the teen said he declined and told Comrie he was about to take it back out. The teen alleged that Comrie noted she was pregnant and, when he still refused to give her the bike, scanned the QR code while he held onto it, renting out the bike from under him. The teen told NewsOne that while Comrie was initially criticized, "everything flipped" after her lawyer published her receipts. "People started calling me a 'thief,' a 'thug,' and a 'Black man,'" he said, according to NewsOne. A GoFundMe for Comrie a physician assistant at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue who was placed on leave after the incident has raised more than $130,000 in donations to help with her legal fees. "She did something wrong, and she basically got rewarded for it," the teen told NewsOne. "She got all the white conservatives on her side. Everyone who was on my side has just kind of stayed silent." The teen's family told NewsOne that they got some public assistance and couldn't afford to pay for a lawyer of their own. "No one is helping us," the teen's mother, who also didn't use her real name, told the news outlet. "We are poor people. We are immigrants. We can't afford a lawyer." Read the original article on Business Insider Blood in home sets off search for missing woman, SC cops say. Then a body is discovered A womans boyfriend is charged after her body was found with a gunshot wound by the side of a road, according to South Carolina officials. Family members of 26-year-old Ajhai Yvonne Taraya Gambrell returned to their home in Walhalla on the evening of May 29 and found blood in the house but no sign of Gambrell, according to a news release from the Oconee County Sheriffs Office. They had left her at the house with her boyfriend, David Delgado Jr. earlier that day, the release says. When they returned, they saw Delgado Jr. hurriedly leaving before speeding away in a car, according to the release. Gambrell was reported missing, and a warrant was issued for Delgado Jr. for use of a vehicle without permission with intent to deprive, according to the sheriffs office. Gambrells body was discovered near an intersection the following afternoon, according to the Oconee County Coroners Office. An autopsy showed she had a single gunshot wound to her neck. The sheriffs office said she had been shot with an AR-15 rifle. Delgado Jr., 25, was arrested in Chesterfield County, Virginia, the sheriffs office release says. He faces charges of murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, according to the release. He is in the process of being extradited to South Carolina. An obituary for Gambrell could not be found online. Attorney information for Delgado Jr. could not be found online. Walhalla is about 150 miles northwest of Columbia. Woman runs over and kills her boyfriend during an argument, Arizona police say Kids break through glass to escape as man shoots ex-wife and toddlers, Texas cops say Dad wins custody of kids, then exs boyfriend kills him moments after, VA family says Body found stuffed in trunk in 1969 is now identified as mother of five, Florida cops say A body was found stuffed in a trunk in 1969 and now, the woman has been identified as a mother of five, Florida police said. Mystery lingers in the decades-old homicide case, as St. Petersburg investigators are still trying to determine who killed the woman, an Arizona resident named Sylvia June Atherton. The case dates to Halloween of 1969, when a couple of kids reported seeing a pickup truck pull into a field behind a restaurant. Two people got out, placed down a suitcase-like trunk and left, Michael Kovacsev, assistant chief of the St. Petersburg Police Department, said in video from a May 28 news conference. Officers responding to the scene opened the trunk and discovered a womans body wrapped in a large plastic bag. The victim had visible injuries to her head and had been strangled with a mans Western-style Bolo tie. She was partially clothed in a pajama top, police wrote in a Facebook post. How was the woman identified? The woman found dead in the field wasnt identified for years. Meanwhile, the mystery of the Trunk Lady, as the case came to be known, was featured on television shows, articles, and cold case conferences, police said. The womans body was buried in the St. Petersburg area before her remains were exhumed for DNA testing in 2010. But the samples were too degraded for the testing to be successful, and police had to spend another decade waiting for answers. This year, police said other samples brought to the forensics company Othram led to a DNA profile, which was compared to Athertons children. After 53 years, she was identified as the woman whose body was found in the field. Atherton, a mother of five, was 41 years old at the time of her death. Police dont believe she had ties to the St. Petersburg area. Atherton reportedly had traveled from Tucson, Arizona, to Chicago with her husband and three of her children, including two who were adults. She dropped off two of her kids, who never saw her again, according to Kovacsev. We do know that her husband at the time passed away in 1999 and never listed her as missing, Kovacsev said. We do know that he never listed her on any bankruptcy records. As of May 30, police said they havent tracked down some of Athertons kids who traveled to Chicago and think those family members could have additional information. Anyone with clues is asked to call officers at 727-893-4823. Man was last seen leaving a bar 17 years ago. Now, human remains are found in his SUV Body found in submerged car of beloved teacher who vanished in 2020, Florida cops say The body of a Missouri emergency room doctor has been found in northwest Arkansas more than a week after he went missing, according to his family. Dr John Forsyth was last heard from in text messages around 7am on 21 May. His brother, Richard Forsyth, said authorities called the family on Tuesday night to inform them that his brother was found dead. Police said he was reported missing when he failed to show up for work later that day at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, a town of 3,100 residents deep in the Missouri Ozarks. Dr Forsyth has never missed a shift without notifying us in the past, so when he failed to arrive for his scheduled shift, and we were unable to reach him, we became concerned and alerted authorities, the hospital authorities were quoted as saying by the New York Post. His black Infiniti was found unlocked in a remote area near an aquatic park in Cassville with his wallet, two phones and a laptop inside. It doesnt seem like a person who left with a plan, his brother said earlier. Right now, we really dont have any breaks in the case. Im confused, and Im worried. And I dont like this one bit. He wouldnt miss a shift even if his eyeballs were hanging out of their sockets, the younger brother told The Daily Beast. It was an immediate red flag. Raising suspicions of foul play, he added: Johns RV was found unlocked [at the hospital], which is very uncharacteristic. His cellphones were inside, which is also very uncharacteristic because he always has his cellphone. My brother is missing. If anyone knows anything, please contact us, his sister Tiffany Andelin Forsyth wrote in Facebook post on 22 May, as she shared pictures of him. Im so worried, Im a mess. Thats all I can say right now. Several law enforcement agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, searched about a 9-mile radius around the park using people, dogs and drones. Forsyths family set up a Facebook page seeking information. Earlier, his brother said the last person Dr Forsyth texted with was a woman to whom he had recently gotten engaged. The last time Richard saw him was a few days before he went missing. We had dinner Wednesday before he disappeared, and we sat and talked for three hours, he said. I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future. Police have said there were no signs of foul play. This undated photo released by the Cassville Missouri Police Dept., shows a portrait of Dr. John Forsyth. Forsyth, a missing emergency room doctor from Missouri, was found dead in Arkansas from an apparent gunshot wound, authorities confirmed Wednesday, May 31, 2023, but they're still investigating what happened in the week since he was last seen. (Cassville Missouri Police via AP) KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) A missing emergency room doctor from Missouri was found dead in Arkansas from an apparent gunshot wound, authorities confirmed Wednesday. But they are still investigating what happened in the week since he was last seen. A kayaker discovered the body of 49-year-old Dr. John Forsyth on Tuesday in Beaver Lake, a large reservoir in northwestern Arkansas, the Benton County Sheriff's Office said. No further information would immediately be released, authorities said, and they didn't specify if he was shot by someone else or if the wound was self-inflicted. The doctors unlocked vehicle with his wallet, two phones, a laptop and other items had been found Sunday near a city-run public pool in Cassville, the town in the Missouri Ozarks where he worked, said his brother Richard Forsyth. The body was found at a location about 20 miles (32 kilometers) away, Arkansas authorities say. Cassville is about 200 miles south of Kansas City. Surveillance video from the pool shows John Forsyths black Infiniti pulling into the parking lot, and a white SUV can be seen parking near him a few minutes later, his brother said in an interview Wednesday. Were devastated, especially at the nature of his passing, Richard Forsyth said. He said Wednesday evening that police had given the family no new details other than investigations into his brothers death and how he went missing were continuing in both states. The last time the two brothers met in person was at dinner on Wednesday, May 17. I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future, Richard Forsyth said in an earlier interview. John Forsyth had recently become engaged to be married, his brother said, and his fiancee was the last known person to communicate with him, texting at around 7 a.m. on Sunday, May 21. The doctor was reported missing that same day when he didn't arrive for work at Mercy Hospital, police have said. Richard Forsyth said the family was mystified by his brother's death and rejected the theory that he might have taken his own life. I dont believe it, he said. John would never do that. I wont accept that possibility. John Forsyth was the father of eight children, his brother said, and was so dedicated to his work that he never missed a day, stayed in an RV near the hospital when he was on call, and was never late for his difficult shifts in the emergency room. His brother-in-law Jason Musgrave in a call with The Associated Press Wednesday from Ozark, Missouri, also rejected the idea of John Forsyth dying by suicide. I feel like it is foul play. I feel like it has to have been, Musgrave said, adding that it was also hard to imagine that anyone who knew him would want to hurt him. He was funny and engaging and the life of a party, Musgrave said. He said the news that his brother-in-law's body had been found had hit the family like a bus full of bricks. Messages seeking comment from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Cassville police on Wednesday were not immediately returned. When the doctor's vehicle was found, several law enforcement agencies searched about a 9-mile (15-kilometer) radius around the aquatic park using people, dogs and drones. Forsyth's family set up a Facebook page seeking information. Gina Forsyth-Farlaino said her brother was smart, confident, loved to help people and was devoted to his family. In the days since his disappearance, she said the family has heard at least three stories of people who he persuaded not to take their own lives. But Forsyth never mentioned those cases to his family, she recalled in an interview Wednesday from Price, Utah. I miss him terribly, Forsyth-Farlaino said. And Im devastated that hes not here. ___ Associated Press writer Lisa Baumann contributed from Bellingham, Washington. Boise officials will continue their search for a new police oversight director after one of the candidates from the pool of finalists selected in April declined the citys offer. The city will continue recruiting and focus on local candidates, Mayor Lauren McLeans spokesperson Maria Weeg told the Idaho Statesman by phone. The city previously announced the selection of three finalists to direct the Office of Police Accountability, which had an opening after former director Jesus Jara was fired in December. The semi-independent oversight office is tasked with reviewing police use of force and other serious incidents. The three finalists were Vic McCraw, a former law enforcement officer in Arizona who ran for Ada County sheriff last year; Mac Muir, a former member of the police Civilian Complaint Review Board in New York City; and Leia Pitcher, who conducts police oversight in Eugene, Oregon. Pitcher was offered the job but rejected it, Weeg said. They were really excited about Leia and really disappointed when she declined, and opted to continue the search rather than offering the position to one of the other candidates, Weeg said, referring to the city officials who interviewed candidates. All three candidates were interviewed by internal stakeholders, local agency partners and community groups, according to a previous news release. The candidates were also interviewed by McLean and the three City Council members who help supervise the oversight office: Council President Holli Woodings, Jimmy Hallyburton and Patrick Bageant. What were doing at this point is working with (Human Resources) and really focusing on a more localized approach to recruitment, Weeg said by phone. The hiring committee and the oversight team are taking the appointment pretty seriously and want to make sure we get the right person. The city did not hire a recruiter to look for a new director and has been using its internal Human Resources Department to conduct the search, Weeg said. The oversight office drew criticism from McLean last year when a memorandum became public that was written by Jara, the former director, recommending that former Police Chief Ryan Lee be placed on leave while complaints against him were investigated. Last fall, McLean said Jaras recommendation waded into personnel matters and was unauthorized by their ordinance. In December, Jara was fired for randomly watching thousands of police body camera videos, rather than only watching videos related to specific and serious use of force incidents, according to the city. Jara has since sued the city, arguing he was retaliated against and did not violate the citys policies. The three finalists were selected from a pool of 30 prospective candidates, according to the previous news release. A Boise city prosecutor, Nicole Schafer, has been serving as interim oversight director since Jara was fired. In February, the oversight offices two remaining investigators resigned. The city has not yet hired replacement investigators. The owner of a South Boston dog training facility was arraigned in court Wednesday morning after numerous reports of alleged animal abuse. Tyler Falconer, 30, was charged with three counts of animal cruelty by a custodian and three counts of improperly tethering or confining an animal. Falconer is the owner of Falco K9, a former dog training and boarding facility on Wadleigh Place that has since been closed. Falconer was also a firefighter for the Town of Burlington but has since resigned from his position, according to the towns fire chief. The Suffolk County District Attorneys Office says the offenses involve three dogs who all lost significant amounts of weight and/or were injured during their stay at Falconers facility. One of the dogs lost 20 pounds while another suffered a puncture wound on their foot that required medical attention, according to officials. All three dogs spent around two weeks at the facility, with the first staying for two weeks in November 2020 while a second was there for two eight-day stints in January and February 2023, authorities say. A third dog stayed at the kennel for two weeks in January 2023. Judge Michael Bolden released Falconer on personal recognizance and ordered him to return to court on July 18 for a pretrial hearing. In a statement, Suffolk County DA Kevin Hayden thanked the Animal Rescue League for their work on the case. Dogs bring so much joy to the lives of the families who care for them and love them, Hayden said. When necessary to board its vital for the families to know that their dogs are in a safe, healthy environment and are treated with kindness and care. That was clearly not the case here, as these disturbing facts make quite clear. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW FRAMINGHAM A new ordinance being proposed in Framingham would limit what flags the city can fly on public buildings unless the City Council approves otherwise. The proposed ordinance would change the process the city follows to fly flags, with proponents saying it is designed to protect Framingham from being forced to fly flags that may be against city policy. The proposed ordinance was introduced during the City Councils Ordinances and Rules subcommittee meeting on May 25, with members voting to recommend it to the full City Council to address at an upcoming meeting. District 8 City Councilor John Stefanini, who chairs the subcommittee, said during the May 25 meeting that the proposed ordinance was created in reaction to a case in Boston that went before the Supreme Court. 'Cannot ignore his history': Framingham website founder's appointment to city board draws criticism Last year, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the city of Boston violated the Constitution when it rejected an application in 2017 to fly a Christian flag on one of the three flagpoles in front of City Hall. The court found that because the city program that allowed other private groups to fly flags was not speech by the city, the city could not refuse permission to fly a particular flag because of the views it expressed. The redesigned Progress Pride flag flies outside the Memorial Building during the 4th annual Pride Ceremony in Framingham, June 4, 2022. The City Councils Ordinances and Rules subcommittee has voted to send to the full council a proposal to limit what flags the city can fly on public buildings unless the council approves otherwise. The court noted that Boston officials had approved more than 200 consecutive applicants for flag flying before denying the application for the Christian flag. 'We need a clear policy' We need to have a clear policy, so that we dont get forced by anybody to express free speech with anything that anybody wants, Stefanini said. The proposed ordinance would limit the flags that could fly in Framingham to the following: the United States flag; the Massachusetts state flag; the city of Framingham flag; the Prisoner of War (POW) flag; flags of other recognized nations Currently, the city has a policy that involves approval from the City Council and the mayor, according to Stefanini. However, he said that policy does not meet the standards set by the Supreme Court decision, and would leave the city vulnerable to an unwanted party requesting a flag to be raised. The proposed ordinance would create stricter regulations and formalize a policy to prevent Framingham from falling into a similar situation as Boston. 'They are having a real problem': Ambulance diversions are latest concern at MetroWest Medical Center District 9 City Councilor and subcommittee member Tracey Bryant said during the May 25 meeting that she believes the only flags on public buildings should be the American flag and the POW flag. The only flags that I think should fly on state buildings, national buildings, any public institution, should be the American flag and the POW flag, if they so choose, but those are the two, she said. That is the only flag that is all-inclusive, and that is what it is for. If anybody can enter a building publicly, there is no other distinction other than you are an American. If you put up a flag for one distinct thing, then you are going to have to put up a flag for another. Exceptions to be approved by City Council The city has in the past flown non-U.S. government flags, such as the Pride flag, during special occasions. Any flags that would be flown outside of the listed flags in the new ordinance would need to be approved by the City Council through a public proclamation, and be in conjunction with an event or ceremony within the policies of the community. Stefanini said the power the City Council has to determine what flags are raised would be limited to flags tied to specific community policies. Im OK leaving this to the democratic process; if it is the policy of the City of Framingham to be open and inclusive, and to celebrate Pride and I believe in that, Im happy to be voting for that and displaying a pride flag, Im very happy with that, Stefanini said during the meeting. The limitations of this are something that is the official policy of the community, voted by the community. The proposed ordinance also states that any flag flown in Framingham must be owned by the city. The subcommittee recommended forwarding the proposed ordinance to City Council on a 2-1 vote, with Stefanini and District 6 City Councilor Phil Ottaviani voting in favor and Bryant voting against. Bryant said she didnt feel comfortable including non-U.S. flags based on the fact that the city cant possibly celebrate all non-U.S. countries. Some children growing up are going to see what countries are being celebrated and who isnt," she said. "We cant possibly celebrate everybody all the time. Something is going to fall through the cracks." This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Framingham proposal would limit what flags can fly on public buildings According to scientists, Indigenous lands create key buffer zones against deforestation in the Amazon, the largest tropical forest in the world Brazil's lower house of Congress approved legislation Tuesday that would limit expanded demarcations of Indigenous lands, which are considered key to protecting the Amazon and its native peoples. The text, passed by the Chamber of Deputies on a 283-155 vote, establishes that reserves can only be on land occupied by Indigenous people at the time of the promulgation of the current constitution, in 1988. The bill, which has yet to move to the Senate, was promoted by representatives sympathetic to the agribusiness sector and other opposition groups, and represents a setback for President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's environmental goals. According to scientists, Indigenous lands create key buffer zones against deforestation in the Amazon, the largest tropical forest in the world. Hours ahead of the vote, about 100 indigenous people temporarily blocked a highway on the outskirts of Brazil's largest city Sao Paulo, before the police dispersed them with tear gas, according to images broadcast by local TV. Brazilian Indigenous communities reject the premise of the bill, arguing they have the right to their original territories, regardless of the status of their occupation in 1988. Critics say many Indigenous peoples did not occupy certain areas that year because they had been expelled during the preceding military dictatorship, which ended in 1985. - 'War against Indigenous peoples' - There are a total of 764 Indigenous territories in Brazil, but around a third of them have not yet been demarcated, according to figures from the National Foundation for Indigenous Peoples (FUNAI). Lula recognized six new territories in April, the first in five years after Indigenous rights stalled under far-right former president Jair Bolsonaro. The Chamber of Deputies vote sparked protests in Brazil including in Manaus, the largest city in the Amazon region. It also drew the attention of international NGOs and activists, including American actors Leonardo Di Caprio and Mark Ruffalo. The government of Brazil "is being attacked by agribusiness," Ruffalo tweeted ahead of the debate. "There is a war against Indigenous peoples and forests. Our planet is at risk." Brazil's Minister of Indigenous Peoples, Sonia Guajajara, said Tuesday that the bill "is a genocide against Indigenous peoples, but also an attack on the environment." She added that she would keep fighting as the bill heads to the Senate. mel-msi/dga/nro/mlm Eli Logan lived the first 46 years of her life in her native Florida. She probably, she said, would have "stayed 46 more." But between the state's politics pushing hard to the right and a slew of new laws affecting Florida's LGBTQ+ community, schools and more, she's joined the ranks of those leaving Florida for places they find safer for themselves and their families. Logan, her husband and their three daughters recently left Brevard for an area of Georgia that's a splash of political blue northeast of Atlanta. It's a place this nurse practitioner sees as a "better, healthier place" to raise the couple's children, the oldest of whom identifies as gay. Trauma session: How this years Florida legislative session reopened wounds, left scars Joy, fear, resilience: Brevard's transgender community reflects on Day of Visibility The parent of a trans child asks: What about my parental rights? She's not alone. When Logan announced her family's move on Facebook, well wishes were punctuated with messages like "We cant stay either. Its not safe and its not headed in a healthy direction." Over the past few weeks, other goodbyes have popped up across social media, like that of Stacey and Sanjay Patel, staples of the Brevard County Democratic Party for several years. And Wendy Johnson, who explained in an impassioned Facebook post why she, her husband and their daughter would soon be moving to New York. It's not like people aren't moving to Florida: They are. According to census figures, a net total of about 320,000 made the move to Florida between 2021 and 2022, making it the "most moved to" state in the country; a place where people flock for warmer weather, lower taxes and likely, in some cases, politics to their liking. But the departure of Florida residents not for a better job, or to be closer to family, or for improved living conditions but because they say they no longer feel welcome ... it's different. And it's to-the-bone personal for everyone who makes that decision. Some say the exodus of those feeling disenchanted and disenfranchised has only just started. Even former Florida Rep. David Jolly, a Republican, said he considered leaving the state where he was born and raised, citing DeSantis' attacks on migrants, the LGBTQ community and African Americans. Why would I want to raise my kids in an environment in which theyre shamed for embracing diversity of thought and diverse cultures? Jolly said in a May 21 interview on MSNBC. It's easier for some, financially, to pick up and go, especially those who have jobs waiting or enough resources to get reestablished in a new location. But no matter the circumstances, leaving is draining, emotionally and physically, say three Space Coast families who've made that choice. The Logan family. The Patels, formerly of Satellite Beach, and their 2-year-old daughter. And the Johnson-Chunka family of Melbourne Beach: Wendy Johnson, Peter Chunka and their daughter, Jenny. These are mere snapshots of their stories, but they have a common thread: Family comes first. And these people, from a mix of political backgrounds, no longer see their families as welcome and able to thrive in the Sunshine State. The Patel family: "It's not a healthy environment to raise a child in" Sanjay and Stacey Patel, who left Brevard County in May 2023, walk with their daughter, Emma, after adopting her in November 2022. Stacey and Sanjay were very busy and very high-profile in their life in Brevard County. They were 40something activists; professionals with good educations he, a graduate of UCLA; she of Carnegie Mellon. He is a former Democratic state committeeman who ran unsuccessfully in 2018 against incumbent U.S. Rep. Bill Posey for Florida's 8th Congressional District, taking 40% of the vote. He tried for office again in 2020, running against John Tobia for a county commission seat and again, lost. She, a Satellite High grad with family ties to the Space Coast, was at one time the chair of the Brevard Democratic Executive Committee. In the early days of COVID-19, she founded Mutual Aid Brevard to help people find the resources and information they needed. By May 2023, the group had blossomed into 18,000-plus members encouraged to "Share what you have. Ask for what you need. We're all in this together." But the Patels were often vilified, facing attacks by local elected officials again and again. "A commissioner suggested my children should be aborted. A state representative called me and my husband 'human feces,'" Stacey Patel recalled in a farewell message on Facebook, before her family departed Florida in early May. So many factors played into their decision to move to Swarthmore, Pennsylvania: from a desire to be part of a progressive community to new local and state laws affecting everything from passing food or money out of a car window to the homeless to abortion, teaching history, and the rights of LGBTQ people. "Im going to say gay. Im going to protest," that farewell message stated. Opinion: When people scour Facebook for food help at midnight, we have a problem Most of all, there's Emma. The couple wants to raise their daughter in a place where they feel a sense of belonging and hope, Stacey Patel said in a recent phone call with FLORIDA TODAY. "I believe, politically, that if Sanjay and I did not have a child, we'd stay there and fight," she said. "But ... in my humble opinion, it's not a healthy environment to raise a child in." Just weeks in, she already sees the difference, Patel said. "There's trees. There's progressivism in this particular community, and thoughtfulness ... I didn't know my neighbors before," she said. In a July 2016 photo, Florida delegate Sanjay Patel of Satellite Beach wears an illuminated jacket supporting former Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders during the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia. His wife, Stacey, who was also a delegate, is at right. "Already, both neighbors have come over and said hi, and we've had conversations in the front yard. There's just an understanding that this is a community and not an assemblage of individuals. And diversity. All different kinds of people, young people, old people, Black people, white people, Asian people. It's like breathing, you know? After holding your breath for a really long time." There are tradeoffs, she said. Like higher property taxes in their new home, which she said she'd rather pay than Florida's sky-high insurance rates. "Brilliant schools," Patel said. "Why would I give money to a private school when I can invest in my community and pay teachers well?" And while moving is hard, she said, "It's really fun to start over; having a community of people who are like, 'What's the best we can do here? What's the most beautiful community we can create?' That's how I feel, and I didn't feel that way there ... this just feels different." Still, the couple is "incredibly proud" of their contributions to Brevard, even if they both acknowledge the Space Coast wasn't always receptive: "I think in spite of some obstacles, we made as much progress as could be expected," Patel said. For example: The Mutual Aid group is still going strong. Patel looked at a post one recent morning and "I'm even more proud of that I don't have to be there and that this thing's still big and it's still beautiful," she said. "Somebody got into a shelter. Somebody was giving away their car on the page. There are still so many good things going on ... I planted my seeds," she said. "You're supposed to plant seeds for trees under which you'll never sit. I hope it's shady down there." The Johnson-Chunka family: The importance of trans rights and health care Wendy Johnson and Peter Chunka with their daughter Jenny Johnson-Chunka (center). The Melbourne Beach family is moving out of Florida because of the effects of some of the legislation that Gov. DeSantis has signed. In 2018, former New York residents Wendy Johnson and Peter Chunka built their "dream home" in Melbourne Beach. Johnson, a one-time special needs teacher, founded a nonprofit greyhound rescue, "A Touch of Grey," which has rescued at least 450 dogs. Her husband continued to work in sales. They have family, Chunka's parents, in Sebastian. Brevard was a place where they chose to live, work, volunteer, become certified foster parents. More: Four new Florida laws target transgender, broader LGBTQ community. Here's what they do One of those foster children was Jenny, a transgender teen who came to them at 15. They adopted her just before her 18th birthday. Jenny Johnson-Chunka loves going to the mall. Arcades. Her job at Publix. Classes at Eastern Florida State College and volunteer work. And Disney World, which, her dad says, would be the place for Jenny's "dream job." But in a few weeks, this family of three will leave Florida for Syracuse, New York, where both Johnson and Chunka are from and where they know from experience and research that a supportive community awaits. It boils down to this: With the passage of legislation that directly affects Jenny's health and happiness, they want to ensure her safety. On top of that, Medicaid, which Jenny qualified for, no longer covers gender-affirming care in Florida: "Could we pay out of pocket? Yes," Johnson said. "But God knows what they're going to do with that." They're no longer willing, Chunka said, to live and spend their money "in an environment that fosters this kind of stuff ... it's been law on top of law. For Jenny and other kids out there, unfortunately, what we're seeing and hearing from other people is it's just kind of breeding hate. So for her, it's safer to stick at home because with autism, she's very vulnerable." Something as simple as going to the bathroom, Johnson said, could put Jenny's safety and future at risk. "All these bills kind of creeped up ...there was the 'Don't Say Gay' bill, and I thought, 'That's kind of messed up,,' but for me, it wasn't so impactful," she said. "I think it hit me first when Jenny started sobbing, when we were talking about the bathroom bill and what could happen if she went into the wrong bathroom and someone asked her to leave. She could literally get arrested." Wendy Johnson and Peter Chunka with their daughter Jenny Johnson-Chunka (center). The Melbourne Beach family is moving out of Florida because of the effects of some of the legislation that Gov. DeSantis has signed. As her parents talked about the move, Jenny reached out and took their hands in hers. She's excited, she said. And grateful for family. Maybe she'll get a job at Wegmans, the popular grocery chain. And return to community college. She'll definitely enjoy the mall in Syracuse, which she shares is one of the largest in the United States. "I'm looking forward to meeting a lot of new people," Jenny said. "I can basically start with a fresh, clean slate and move from there." There's been sadness, yes. And moments of anger for these parents Johnson, a registered independent, and Chunka, a former Republican. There could come a day, the couple agreed, when the tide turns in Florida, and neither rule out a return. They speak of Rainbow Passages, a group which is raising money for families "who can't leave but don't have the financial resources," Johnson said. "Before we leave, we'll do whatever we can to help, to network, and see what we can do from wherever we are," she said. "Not contributing to the community with our dollars, but helping people here who want to get out." The Logan family: "DeSantis went after all the things that I believe in" Former Brevard County resident Eli Logan, third from left, is pictured with her daughters, from left, Isla, Eden and Harper. In April 2023, Logan and her husband moved their family to Athens, Georgia, for many reasons, not the least of which was legislation affecting Florida's LGBTQ community. Eli Logan is blunt about the moment she knew she might have to think about moving. "When DeSantis won the first time I knew that nothing good was going to come from it," said Logan, a nurse practitioner who was born in Palm Beach County and moved to Brevard at age 28. "And then shortly thereafter, I found out that my oldest is gay. And as predicted, DeSantis went after all the things that I believe in women's rights, trans rights, more. I just cannot believe the latest legislation about how they can actually take kids away from parents who want to provide gender-affirming care ... it blows my mind." So when her husband got the chance to interview for a job in Athens, Georgia, Logan did a lot of research. And after he landed the job, "everything went really, really fast," she said "It definitely was like a bug in his ear consistently over the past several years," said Logan, who campaigned for DeSantis' opponent, Andrew Gillum, in that 2018 election. "I knew we needed to get out. And now my daughter is part of the LGBTQ community ... I feel like an attack on trans people is an attack on the whole community. I don't know where it's headed, but I don't think it's headed anywhere good. And you know, if they're going to come for trans people, who are they going to come for next?" She's adjusting to the family's new life in Georgia. She got on Facebook, "followed all the breadcrumbs" and found a group of like-minded women in Athens and surrounding counties, she said. In an August 2021 photo, Eli Logan, left, a nurse practitioner, and Tamika Lyles, founder of Standing Heroes For Average Workers, SHAW, show up at a Brevard County school board meeting in favor of mask-wearing in Brevard Public Schools. "As soon as I moved up, I met them in real life. They have kids, like my kids, you know, either LGBTQ or whatever other issues my other kids are having," said Logan, whose mother, who's 77, will be moving to Athens, too. "I was actively seeking people to become my tribe because when I moved here, I knew nobody ... I knew I had to get my ass in gear to find people we can relate to." Still, it was hard to move. Even harder, Logan said, "when you're 14, 12 and 10" and in the last month of a school year. There have been "tears, breakdowns and slammed doors," but "nevertheless, they persisted," Logan said. And as it turned out, all three children made either straight-A or A and B grades for the entire year. "I'm so thankful that this opportunity came about and we were able to get out," Logan said. "And I'm looking forward to stepping back into politics at some point but coming from a different place not from fear and anger, but from hope and positivity." Britt Kennerly is education/breaking news editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Kennerly at 321-917-4744 or bkennerly@floridatoday.com. Twitter: @bybrittkennerly Facebook: /bybrittkennerly. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Leaving Florida: Families join exodus after DeSantis' new laws Who are the bride and groom in Jordan's royal wedding? A poster with pictures of Crown Prince Hussein and his fiancee, Saudi architect Rajwa Alseif is posted at a road in Amman, Jordan, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. Crown Prince Hussein and Saudi architect Rajwa Alseif are to be married on Thursday at a palace wedding in Jordan, a Western-allied monarchy that has been a bastion of stability for decades as Middle East turmoil has lapped at its borders.(AP Photo/Nasser Nasser) He's heir to the throne in one of the oldest monarchies in the Middle East and a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. She's a Saudi architect with an aristocratic pedigree of her own. Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, 28, and Rajwa Alseif, 29, are to be married on Thursday at a palace wedding in Jordan, a Western-allied monarchy that has been a bastion of stability for decades as Middle East turmoil has lapped at its borders. The families have not said how the couple met or provided any details about their courtship. They were formally engaged at a traditional Muslim ceremony in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, in August 2022 that was attended by senior members of Jordan's royal family. The bride and groom are destined to become a power couple in the Middle East, forging a new bond between Jordan and Saudi Arabia as the latter seeks to transform itself into a regional power broker. Here's a look at the bride and groom. A US-EDUCATED ARCHITECT WITH ARABIAN TRIBAL ROOTS Rajwa Alseif was born in Riyadh on April 28, 1994, the youngest of four children. Her mother, Azza bint Nayef Abdulaziz Ahmad Al Sudairi, is related to Hussa bint Ahmed Al Sudairi, who is said to have been the favorite wife of Saudi Arabia's founder, King Abdul-Aziz Al Saud, and gave birth to seven of his sons, including the country's current ruler, King Salman. For decades, the so-called Sudairi Seven, most of whom are now deceased, were seen as a major locus of power within the Saudi royal family. Alseif's father, Khalid, is a member of the Subai, a prominent tribe in the Arabian Peninsula with ancient roots. He's also the founder of El Seif Engineering Contracting, which built Riyadh's iconic Kingdom Tower and other high-rises across the Middle East. Rajwa studied architecture at Syracuse University in New York, where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in 2017. A graduation video shows her receiving her degree in sparkling silver sneakers. The year before, she led a Spring Break architecture symposium in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, that was funded by her father's company. What made this trip so memorable for me... was seeing the students in the studio experience Arabic culture and architecture for the first time," she was quoted as saying by a university newspaper. She went on to earn a degree in visual communications from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. An official biography shared by the Jordanian royal palace says her hobbies include horseback riding and handmade arts, and that she is fluent in English, French and her native Arabic. ___ A CROWN PRINCE LONG GROOMED TO LEAD Crown Prince Hussein was born June 28, 1994. His path to succession became clear when his father, King Abdullah II, stripped his own half-brother, Prince Hamzah, of the title of crown prince in 2004. Hussein was formally named heir to the throne five years later, at the age of 15. He is the oldest son of Abdullah, 61, who has ruled Jordan as a reliable Western ally and voice of moderation through more than two decades of turmoil in Israel, the Palestinian territories, Syria and Iraq, all of which border the small, resource-poor kingdom. The Hashemites, as Jordan's ruling family is known, trace their lineage back to the Prophet Muhammad. They dwelled in the Hejaz region of what is now Saudi Arabia for centuries before King Abdul-Aziz Al Saud's forces drove them out in 1925. The Hashemites had led the Arab revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I, a rebellion dramatized by the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia." They had hoped to rule over an Arab state encompassing much of the Middle East, but Western imperial powers betrayed them. The French drove them out of Syria and a nationalist uprising toppled them in Iraq, leaving them with only Jordan. The crown prince is named for his grandfather, King Hussein, who ruled Jordan for 46 years until his death in 1999 and remains a beloved figure for many Jordanians. It could be years before the crown prince becomes king, but his training has already begun. He graduated from Georgetown University with a degree in international history in 2016 and from the British Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst the following year. He holds the rank of captain in the Jordanian military and routinely takes part in drills and ceremonies. He has joined his father on overseas trips, including a recent meeting at the White House with President Joe Biden. The prince shared pictures from the visit on his Instagram feed, which has over 4 million followers and also features more casual photos. In 2015, Hussein was the youngest person to ever chair a meeting at the U.N. Security Council, leading a discussion about how to help young people confront violent extremism and promote peace. Two years later, and just out of college, he addressed the U.N. General Assembly. His experiences to date may have prepared him to rule Jordan, but he also exists in a world apart from most of his fellow citizens, who have suffered in recent years from diminishing economic prospects. Elected governments in Jordan have long served as a seawall for public anger, even as the king has always held the real power. It's a reality the young crown prince may have to confront someday, long after his palace wedding. UN vessel arrives at moored oil tanker off Yemeni coast for rescue preparation Xinhua) 09:15, May 31, 2023 A United Nations ship, an engineering vessel called "Ndeavor," arrives at the site of the FSO Safer vessel at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) SANAA, May 30 (Xinhua) -- A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. The UN office in Yemen said in a statement that the ship, an engineering vessel called "Ndeavor," had arrived from the east African country of Djibouti across the Red Sea to make the first preparations for an emergency rescue plan. The statement said the ship would start working soon to make the super oil tanker safer before the extraction process begins. Meantime, a UN employee in Yemen confirmed to Xinhua that the plan to unload oil from the severely deteriorating ship would not start in the next few days, as Ndeavor's job is to create a safer and better condition for the next phase. The UN is still appealing to the international community to raise more money to fund the crucial operation. The FSO Safer, anchored in the Red Sea off the coast of Hodeidah, has not undergone maintenance since 2015 due to the ongoing conflict in Yemen. The deteriorating and dilapidated supertanker has been labeled a "floating time bomb" by the UN, as it poses a significant risk of explosion or an oil spill, potentially causing a catastrophe four times as disastrous as the 1989 Exxon Valdez incident in the Red Sea. A statement by the UN Development Programme warned that a major spill would devastate fishing communities along Yemen's Red Sea coast, resulting in the loss of 200,000 livelihoods overnight, with fish stocks taking 25 years to recover. It would also lead to the closure of the essential ports of Hodeidah and Saleef, which are crucial for bringing food, fuel, and life-saving supplies into Yemen, where 17 million people need food assistance. The UN said in March that it had purchased a super oil tanker, named "Nautica," to offload the over one-million-barrel crude oil on FSO Safer. In April, the UN said it had received firm commitments for 95 million U.S. dollars for the FSO Safer rescue plan, adding it still needs another 34 million dollars to continue the project. The FSO Safer vessel is seen at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) A Yemen's coast guard boat sails past the FSO Safer vessel at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) A United Nations ship, an engineering vessel called "Ndeavor," arrives at the site of the FSO Safer vessel at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) The FSO Safer vessel is seen at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) The FSO Safer vessel is seen at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) A worker fastens a United Nations ship, an engineering vessel called "Ndeavor," as it arrives at the site of the FSO Safer vessel at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) Engineers hired by the United Nations stand on board of a UN ship, an engineering vessel called "Ndeavor," at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) The FSO Safer vessel is seen at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) Engineers hired by the United Nations stand on board of a UN ship, an engineering vessel called "Ndeavor," at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) The FSO Safer vessel is seen at Ras Issa port in Hodeidah province, Yemen, on May 30, 2023. A United Nations (UN) ship arrived on Tuesday at the site of the floating storage and offloading (FSO) Safer vessel, a decaying super oil tanker, off the coast of Ras Issa, Hodeidah in western Yemen. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Business owners glad busy Midtown Atlanta roads are open again after crane collapse Business is back for a busy stretch of Midtown Atlanta after roads reopened more than a week after a crane collapsed on a construction site. The collapse killed business for many restaurants, bars, barber shops and more. Channel 2s Justin Carter visited the American Haircuts Shop where the owners said they are happy to be back after losing out on money this past week. Two clients is a lot of money, owner Donald Scott explained. So we lost a few bucks. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Across the street from Scotts shop, more than 1,000 people had to be evacuated from the Tens on West Apartments after part of a crane collapsed at a highrise under construction. Fire officials deemed the building too dangerous for people to stay. Its been crazy because most of our clients come from those apartments, Scott said. He says six clients canceled on Monday alone. It makes a lot of confusion when anything happens right here, Scott said. Barber Brian Boster says hes still recovering from business loss after a mass shooting earlier this month at Northside Hospital down the street. As long as anything else doesnt happen, I think business is coming back to life, Boster said. RELATED STORIES: After Spring St. and W. Peachtree St. opened back up last night, Boster said he could see the difference on Wednesday morning. They didnt know if we were open or not, they just came to the area, parked elsewhere and came to the shop...We still want people to come here and were still open, he said. A ramen restaurant that has been closed for several days has also reopened. Carter noticed that traffic in the area was light because people still are not sure if the roads have reopened. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: By Daniel Trotta and Steve Gorman LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A California appeals court overruled Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday to find Leslie Van Houten, one of Charles Manson's murderous "family" of followers, entitled to parole after more than 50 years in prison for her part in the cult's 1969 killing spree. Van Houten, 73, the youngest of Manson's devotees, has been recommended for early release by the state parole board on five occasions since 2016, but was denied three times by Newsom and twice by his predecessor, fellow Democrat Jerry Brown. The 2-to-1 decision from a three-member panel of the state's 2nd District Court of Appeal sided with the Board of Parole Hearings' findings that Van Houten, who was 19 when the murders were committed, has been rehabilitated and no longer poses a danger to society. The governor could appeal the decision to the California Supreme Court. In his most recent rejection of her parole in 2022, Newsom cited supposed inconsistencies between Van Houten's statements then and at the time of the murders, which he said suggested "gaps in Ms. Van Houten's insight or candor, or both." But in granting her petition, the appellate judges wrote that Newsom's conclusion "fails to account for the decades of therapy, self-help programming, and reflection Van Houten has undergone in the past 50 years." It marks the first time a court has overruled a governor's denial of parole to a Manson follower, according to the Los Angeles Times. Manson, who died in prison in 2017 at age 83, directed his mostly young and female followers to murder seven people, including actress Sharon Tate, in August 1969 in what prosecutors said was part of a plan to incite a race war. Van Houten was convicted of fatally stabbing grocery owner Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary, in their Los Angeles home on Aug. 10, 1969. The words "Death to Pigs" and "Healter Skelter" - a misspelled reference to a Beatles song - were found scrawled in the victims' blood on the walls and refrigerator. The previous night, members of Manson's cult broke into the Los Angeles hillside home that Tate shared with her husband, filmmaker Roman Polanski, who was away in Europe at the time. Tate, who was 26 and eight months pregnant, was slain along with four friends of the celebrity couple, including coffee heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring. Van Houten's 1971 original conviction and death sentence were initially overturned on appeal, but she was retried, convicted and sentenced to prison in 1978. Although Manson, one of the 20th century's most notorious criminals, did not personally kill any of the seven victims, he was found guilty of ordering their murders. The death sentences that he and other followers received were commuted to life in prison after capital punishment was ruled unconstitutional in 1972. Manson was also convicted later of ordering the killings of two others that summer - music teacher Gary Hinman and stuntman Donald "Shorty" Shea. (Reporting and writing by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Additional reporting by Daniel Trotta in Carlsbad, California; Editing by Leslie Adler) A Northern California judge on Wednesday dismissed manslaughter and other criminal charges brought against Pacific Gas and Electric Co. in connection with the Zogg Fire, a deadly and destructive 2020 wildfire in Shasta County, as prosecutors and the utility company announced a $50 million settlement agreement. The Zogg Fire ignited in September 2020 near Redding and killed four people, including an 8-year-old girl and her mother. The blaze went on to burn more than 56,000 acres (88 square miles) and destroyed more than 200 structures in Shasta and Tehama counties. Utility company PG&E most recently faced 11 charges, including seven felony counts: four of involuntary manslaughter and three of recklessly starting a fire. Cal Fire investigators blamed the start of the fire on a tree making contact with a PG&E power line. State regulators following their own investigation levied a $150 million fine against the utility company, which was finalized earlier this month. Shasta Superior Court Judge Daniel E. Flynn during a Wednesday morning hearing ruled to dismiss all charges. PG&E and Shasta County District Attorney Stephanie Bridgett announced separately Wednesday morning that the company agreed to a $50 million civil settlement. PG&E in a news release said that in the agreement, which is subject to court approval, the company commits to continue several initiatives to further reduce the risk of wildfires, and to fund $45 million in contributions to numerous organizations dedicated to rebuilding and assisting Shasta County communities. The organizations set to receive the $45 million include local fire departments, law enforcement agencies and nonprofit organizations, PG&E said. The utility company will also pay a $5 million civil penalty to the county. The agreement reflects our continuing commitment to making it right and making it safe, Patti Poppe, CEO of PG&E Corp., said in a prepared statement. Flynn in his tentative ruling ahead of the hearing wrote that prosecutors did not put forth sufficient evidence to show PG&E engaged in criminal conduct. Prosecutors failed to establish that any of the various inspections failed to abide by the standard, the tentative ruling read, in part. The peoples argument here relies almost exclusively on facts learned about the tree after the fact and the fire resulting from the power lines being dropped due to the fall of the tree. The judge also wrote that the tree was not a known risk prior to the Zogg fire, and there is no evidence to support the Peoples claim in their opposition that it was. Bridgetts office in 2021 filed 31 total charges, and PG&E Corp. in June 2022 pleaded not guilty to all charges. Twenty of the 31 charges were dismissed this February by Shasta Superior Court Judge Bradley Boeckman; those 20 were related to other Shasta County fires and allegations of air contamination. Boeckman at the time ordered PG&E to stand trial in the case. The California Public Utilities Commission in late 2022 proposed a $155 million fine against PG&E for its role in the Zogg Fire. The commission and PG&E on May 18 formalized a $150 million settlement. California Public Utilities Commission investigators found that the tree that caused the fire was not removed in time because of PG&Es poor recordkeeping, the commission wrote in a news release announcing the settlement. Californians elected Dianne Feinstein, not her staff, to be their senator. She should resign | Opinion More than 6 million Californians voted in 2018 to return Dianne Feinstein to the U.S. Senate for another six-year term. What the voters did not do was choose Feinsteins staff members to be the de facto senior Democrat senator from the Golden State. Yet, five years later, that seems to be occurring. This is a result of Feinsteins advancing age she will turn 90 later this month and a recent bout with shingles that created a months-long absence and left her more frail than ever. Feinsteins mental acumen has been questioned by supporters for years. The recent illness left her weakened enough that she needs to be pushed through the Capitol in a wheelchair. Age and fragility are, of themselves, not necessarily disqualifiers from elected service. Rather, the issue is whether Feinsteins abilities have declined to a point that she can no longer adequately serve. Her loyal staff say Feinstein still casts votes in the Senate. But as a recent New York Times story makes clear, the staff remind her how and when she should vote and step in to explain what is happening when she grows confused. They stay with her in the cloak room just off the Senate floor, where Ms. Feinstein has taken to waiting her turn to vote, then appearing in the doorway to register her aye or nay from the outer edge of the chamber. The image is one of a senator unable to do her own research anymore on the key topics facing her state and nation. The staff must bring the information to her. They are the gatekeepers. Those same staff protect Feinstein from any public interaction. The Capitol police and Senate sergeant-at-arms also keep her shielded from photographers and reporters. This is not how representative government is supposed to work. Voters have a rightful expectation that the person they chose for office will in fact be able to carry out the duties of that office. Elected leaders must be able to answer in person for their votes, policies and actions. Accountability and transparency are key, and both are missing in Feinsteins current service. Feinstein not the first Feinstein is not the first senator to confront mental and physical challenges while in office. The leading example is South Carolinas Strom Thurmond. He reached the age of 100 while in his final term and ended up serving 48 years in the Senate. Norm Ornstein, the emeritus scholar of the American Enterprise Institute, notes that Thurmond was visibly infirm and confused during his final term, and his chief of staff was effectively making decisions for him for years. Last year, when Vice President Kamala Harris was presiding over a voting session in the Senate as allowed in the Constitution, Feinstein asked colleagues what Harris was doing there. The Times notes that for years, Ms. Feinsteins memory problems have meant that she has needed far more support than other senators. Briefing her on the news of the day requires longer sessions and more background information. Erwin Chemerinsky, dean and a professor at the UC Berkeley School of Law, noted in a recent column that he observed her decline in his last conversation with Feinstein. Its hard for me to write this about someone who has always treated me with great kindness, but alas: It is time for Dianne Feinstein to retire, Chemerinsky said. Depart with honor Feinstein was elected to the Senate in 1992 and has a long list of achievements. She was a trailblazing female legislator and will be remembered as one of Californias great senators. Thats how the voters would have it. They do not want the senators staff to have the power. If Feinstein can no longer perform her duties adequately, she should step down and let Gov. Newsom chose her replacement. Are Californians happier than Middle Georgia residents? This study says yes. Moving out of the South could have a positive effect on Middle Georgians. According to a recent study by Wallethub, the 10 cities with the happiest residents in the country do not have a country accent. Wallethub measured the level of happiness in 180 of the countrys largest cities. The cities found that the happiest cities in America are cities in California and Wisconsin. The results arent all sad for Georgia. WalletHub ranked Atlanta the 97th happiest city, which is far ahead of Columbus. Columbus is ranked as the 174th happiest city of the 180 reviewed. Additionally, Augusta, Georgia ranked 176. Here are the 10 happiest cities in the U.S. Fremont, California San Jose, California Madison, Wisconsin Overland Park, Kansas San Francisco, California Irvine, California Columbia, Maryland Sioux Falls, South Dakota South Burlington, Vermont Burlington, Vermont How were these rankings determined? WalletHub looked at three categories to find the happiest large cities in the country: (1) Emotional & Physical Well-Being, (2) Income & Employment and (3) Community & Environment. Heres a breakdown of each category: Emotional & physical well-being includes depression and suicide rates, sleep rates, physical health index and life expectancy. Income & employment covers household annual income, job security, poverty rate, job satisfaction, unemployment rates and work hours. Community & environment envelops separation and divorce rates, crime rates, weather, hate-crime incidents and average leisure time. So, how does where you live influence happiness? Heres what the experts say: Some places are just happiness-inducing places, with lots of sunlight, nature and culture, said Stacey N. Doan, associate professor of psychological science at Claremont McKenna College. However, recent research also suggests that it is not about the place, but the match between the place and who you are as a person. If your values are more in line with the values of the culture of that town, or neighborhood, you are more likely to be happy. Many people think that money buys happiness and where you live is just a small factor, but that is not always the case. Money does not so much buy happiness as it buys freedom from unhappiness and stress. You can solve a lot of problems and daily hassles by throwing money at them, said Sherry Hamby, a psychology professor at the University of the South. For happiness, it is far more important to have a strong sense of purpose and to find some way to give back than it is to be rich, Hamby said. To Hamby, your address and bank account are not as important as family and personal influences. But, a vibrant city leads to vibrant residents. She said, Places with more resources - whether these are natural resources like beaches and mountains, cultural resources like museums and theaters, or essential resources like health care and transportation - tend to have happier people than other places. See the full study online. Do you agree with this study? Comment below to share your thoughts or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto is one of Canada's largest research facilities for mental health Canada is grappling with a ticking time bomb of violence, addiction and suicide linked to failing mental health services for its young people. In the streets and subways of Toronto, Canada's largest city, an ultra-modern metropolis that acts as a window into the nation's economy and culture, many young people can be seen wandering, their eyes staring into space, shouting incomprehensibly. Newspapers are filled with accounts of unprovoked attacks on strangers, opioid overdoses and other societal ills linked to addiction and mental health problems. This was an acute phenomenon in big cities in the United States before also trending north of the border. In Canada, decades of chronic underfunding of mental health services has left many young people struggling in the wake of the punishing Covid-19 pandemic, sometimes with fatal consequences. "The number of young people with mental health and addiction problems across Canada has been growing exponentially for more than a decade," says Bjug Borgundvaag, an emergency room doctor at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto. "We try to do our best but we have very limited things that we can offer," he says. In Toronto, the situation has reached a crisis level, such that former mayor John Tory called for a national mental health summit to address it. - Crystal meth - "Historically, we've underfunded mental health," says David Gratzer at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto. "In Canada, for every dollar we spend on health care, we spend seven or eight cents on mental health care," which is far less than most other developed countries, he notes. Canada made a big mistake in the 1960s and 1970s by eliminating many hospital beds for people with mental illness, said Gratzer, who is a psychiatrist. In 2022, demand for psychological services in Ontario increased by 50 percent, with more than one in two youths living with mental illness. Charities have tried to fill the gap left by shortfalls in public services, but have been unable to keep up with the large influx of people in distress. "It's a ticking time bomb," said Jacques Charland of the Quebec help line Ecoute Entraide. - Long waitlists - "It is a crisis because it affects all aspects of the population. In the young adult and youth populations, the numbers have become so much more alarming," laments Nzinga Walker, executive director of Stella's Place. Located a few blocks from Toronto's Chinatown, Stella's Place offers free mental health support to people aged 16 to 29 in psychological distress. "Services are not available. Almost anywhere you look for help, there's a wait list and when someone has a mental health need or a mental health crisis, the last thing you want to see happening is that you're going on a wait list," Walker adds. Stella's Place opened in 2013 and recently moved into a shiny new facility, where youths can access counseling, group programs and psychiatric services. Kat Romero, her long hair streaked with blue highlights, says the facility changed her life. "I felt lost, and it taught me different kinds of coping mechanisms to help deal with being in crisis and also maintaining my day-to-day mental wellness," she said, a support dog at her feet. Today, Romero helps the center set up programs. The organization is also training young people on how to reach out to certain communities in which mental illness is stigmatized. "If you are from immigrant families, just coming to Canada is really hard. You're told not to seek help and that you should be strong and all of the stuff that's happening to you is normal," confides Chantelle Cruzat-Whervin, a black client at Stella's Place. "For people of color, I feel like we don't have access to a lot of resources," she added. tib/amc/dw/sst The News The nascent market for carbon removal credits a more expensive, but far more credible alternative to increasingly discredited carbon offsets took a few leaps forward this month, with an unprecedented round of corporate purchase agreements that push fringe technologies closer to the mainstream of climate action. In the last two weeks, Microsoft, JPMorgan Chase, Boeing, and a purchasing collective called Frontier that represents tech giants including Stripe, Alphabet, and Meta all agreed to buy large volumes of carbon removal credits, aiming to kick-start a virtuous cycle of demand and supply. Tim's view The carbon removal industry is at a turning point: Technologies are maturing and companies in the U.S. are beginning to tap the juicy carbon-removal tax incentives offered by the Inflation Reduction Act. Carbon removal credits differ from traditional carbon offsets as they give the purchaser credit for existing CO2 emissions that are permanently withdrawn from the atmosphere or ocean, rather than for new emissions that are avoided. While companies work to reduce their operational and supply-chain carbon footprints, carbon removal credits offer a way to make progress toward net zero that is generally seen as more scientifically credible albeit much more expensive than offsets. Today the market for carbon removal is tiny: Last year, 4,000 times more tons of carbon offsets were sold than carbon removals. The technologies which include direct atmosphere capture with big fans, converting farm waste to oil that gets injected deep underground, and spreading carbon-sucking crushed rocks on farmland, among others are at about the stage solar energy was two decades ago, with few customers and no economies of scale. For now, the most important missing piece is customers willing to pay hundreds of dollars per ton to counteract their emissions. But theyre beginning to emerge. Together the commitments made by Boeing, Frontier, Microsoft, and JPMorgan are about a million tons more than were sold globally in 2022. For these buyers, getting in early on carbon removal allows them to offset emissions in a way that is less likely than traditional offsets to draw accusations of greenwashing (or even lawsuits, as Delta Airlines discovered this week). It also allows them to jump to the front of the line for a product where demand is likely to far outpace supply for the foreseeable future. The View From Frontier Frontiers deal $53 million to buy 112,000 tons between 2024 and 2030 is its first offtake agreement. The group was formed last year to solve a chicken-and-egg problem, said Nan Ransohoff, who leads the group and is head of climate at Stripe. The underlying goal is to send a loud demand signal to entrepreneurs, scientists, and researchers that there is a market for carbon removal, she said. Founders don't want to start companies if there's going to be no revenue stream, and investors don't want to invest. So we essentially created a synthetic market to pull companies into existence. The supplier of removal credits will be San Francisco-based Charm Industrial, a startup that converts farm waste into an oil that gets injected deep underground (thereby sequestering the atmospheric carbon the plants consumed while growing). In the three years since it was founded, the company has only delivered about 6,000 tons of removals, so the Frontier deal is a huge test of its ability to expand. But Ransohoff said she thinks Charm is ready. The key question is whether a few big, high-dollar purchase orders the Frontier deal works out to about $470 per ton, while traditional carbon offsets range from about $1-$50 can give Charm the scale it needs to drop its price dramatically. Room for Disagreement Until the price of carbon removal credits falls below $100 per ton, the market will be limited to a small number of deep-pocketed, image-conscious corporate buyers. Even then, Ransohoff said, the scale of carbon removal called for by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change at least five billion tons per year by 2050 wont be possible without much more government support. To put that figure in context, purchase commitments only totaled 2.6 million tons last year, of which only about 2% have actually been delivered. In its early days, solar energy was propelled by the fortunate alignment of policy and tax incentives in the U.S., China, and Europe that allowed buyers and sellers to develop together, said Julio Friedmann, chief scientist at the consulting firm Carbon Direct. We don't have the same policy alignment for carbon removal, he said, so the chicken-and-egg problem persists: Deep cost reductions are entirely a function of how quickly we deploy. Notable The Carnival cruise passenger who went overboard and remains missing was on his first cruise and it became his 'happy place,' his fiancee said The Carnival Magic cruise ship docked in Marseille, France. Gerard Bottino/Getty Images The man who went overboard on a Carnival cruise ship was on his first-ever cruise, his partner said. "He loved the cruise life," Jennilyn Michelle Blosser told WTKR of her fiance, Ronnie Lee Peale Jr. Peale Jr. fell off the Carnival Magic ship early Monday and remains missing. The man who remains missing after falling overboard on a Carnival cruise sail returning from the Bahamas was in a "happy place" on his first-ever cruise before tragedy struck, his partner said. "He loved the cruise life," Jennilyn Michelle Blosser told WTKR of her fiance, Ronnie Lee Peale Jr. "Being able to drink, gamble, and socialize put him in his happy place." Blosser said that 35-year-old Peale Jr. was the "life of the party," and told CNN that the pair went on the voyage to celebrate her birthday. Peale Jr., a Virginia resident, fell into the water early Monday after he leaned over a balcony railing on the Carnival Magic ship about 186 miles east of Jacksonville, Florida, officials said. The cruise ship's operator, Carnival Cruise Line, told Insider in a statement that a review of closed-circuit security footage "confirms that he leaned over the railing of his stateroom balcony and dropped into the water at approximately 4:10 am early Monday morning." He was reported missing late Monday afternoon, the cruise line said. The United States Coast Guard said crews had already spent 19 hours searching for Peale Jr. across 4,044 square miles. Crews were continuing their search for Peale Jr. on Wednesday morning, the Coast Guard said. Read the original article on Business Insider A Carnival Sunshine passenger says he's surprised to be alive after the ship was rocked by a terrifying storm that smashed his window Carnival Sunshine cruise ship, which was hit by bad weather last weekend. Ivan Cholakov/shutterstock A cruise-ship passenger spoke of his surprise at surviving a storm while at sea. Bill Hassler told CNN that a wave broke the window of his cabin and let water in. The Carnival Sunshine had been returning from the Bahamas and heading for South Carolina. A passenger on board a cruise ship that was caught up in a terrifying storm while sailing to Charleston, South Carolina, says he feared for his life. A storm off the Southeastern coast of the US hit the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship during its return from the Bahamas last weekend, Fox Weather reported. Data from the National Weather Service showed that there were wind speeds of up to 46 miles per hour in some areas of Charleston over the weekend. Bill Hassler, a passenger on board the ship, told CNN he was "surprised I'm still alive" after the storm. He told the news outlet a wave broke the window of his cabin and let water in. He said: "When I got home Sunday night, I had to crack open a beer and think about it, and I started shaking because it just set in. I couldn't even believe I'm still here." One video showing severe flooding in the aftermath of the incident was posted on Twitter by Crew Center and also featured in the CNN report. Speaking to CNN, Hassler criticized the cruise operator for sailing in poor weather conditions, questioning why officials didn't wait for the storm to subside before setting off. Representatives for Carnival Cruise Line did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. However, a spokesperson said in a statement shared on Monday that the ship's "return to Charleston was impacted by the weather and rough seas on Saturday." "The weather's prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship's arrival and as a result, the next voyage's embarkation was also delayed. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests. Carnival Sunshine is now sailing on its next cruise," the statement read. Read the original article on Business Insider TRINITY COUNTY, Calif. If you buy weed illegally, you unwittingly could be supporting Mexican cartels and other criminal syndicates that lure workers to farms in Northern California and Southern Oregon, where they often suffer inhumane conditions and sometimes sexual abuse. Or worse. Some disappear, presumed murdered, their bodies discarded within the area's vast wilderness. Others are held against their will. Sometimes, workers' passports, visas or driver's licenses and cell phones are locked away until they finish the harvest season. And cultivators often threaten to harm the workers or the workers' families if they run off or talk to police, said Trinity County Sheriff Tim Saxon. "They're basically being held prisoner," he said. The remote mountains of Northern California attract Mexican cartels and other criminal syndicates looking to capitalize on cannabis without paying local and state fees and taxes, and often without respecting the environment or farmworkers. "They're being threatened; they're cut off from their families. They're being placed in remote locations, and they don't even know where they're at." Trinity, Mendocino and Humboldt are the three large, mountainous counties in Northern California that comprise the Emerald Triangle, known throughout the world for its extensive production of high-quality legal cannabis, as well as black market marijuana. More in this project: Illegal pot trade linked to Mexican drug cartels leaves contaminants, dead animals behind The state legalized marijuana for adult recreational use in 2016, but that hasn't slowed the "green rush" from Mexican cartels and other criminal syndicates angling for their portion of America's multibillion-dollar industry. Those who harvest illegally can offer cheaper prices than licensed growers by avoiding environmental impact studies, taxes, fees and fair wages for their workers. They also rake in cash by doing something that lawful dispensaries can't do shipping to states where marijuana remains illegal. "We really don't know what's going on out in the forest of Trinity County," said David Brady, the county's district attorney. "We don't know if people are missing, if people are being trafficked. "For all we know, there could be bodies buried out in the wilderness," the prosecutor said. "I worry about that because we have no way of controlling who comes into this county." Workers are lured to the Emerald Triangle by an image of the past one of peaceful hippies who established a cannabis community decades ago, but who are now known as the few remaining "legacy farmers." Instead, workers are far more likely to be greeted by aggressive guard dogs, an elaborate security system, potent pesticides, a towering perimeter fence and an arsenal of weapons. More: Cartel flooded coastal Oregon town with drugs, left grisly warning for those who might talk "It's just like 'blood diamond,' only it's marijuana blood cannabis," said Mendocino County Sheriff Matt Kendall, who's fighting to identify and rescue victims in his jurisdiction. ('Blood diamond' is a term used to describe gems that are illegally traded and mined in war-torn areas and used to fund the conflict.) Criminal syndicates and other cannabis cultivators sometimes bulldoze their own roads, rough and with deep potholes, through the Northern California wilderness. While many of the large illegal grows are run by foreign criminal syndicates, Kendall pointed to a Potter Valley native who killed and beheaded two of his farm workers in 2021 near the town of Willits, in central Mendocino County. Investigators found the headless bodies of a 17-year-old and his father, who came from Mexico seeking work, on a second property owned by Christopher Wayne Gamble in a ditch under a pile of tires that had been set on fire. Their heads were never found. Kendall said he's not sure if Gamble's illegal operation was connected to organized crime, but Gamble estimated he had $500,000 worth of marijuana, much larger than the typical mom-and-pop growers. "It's my opinion they had a fallout, a dispute over wages or worker treatment," Kendall said of the suspected motive. On May 8, a jury convicted Gamble of first-degree murder of the teen and second-degree murder of the father, according to a release by the Mendocino County District Attorney. Trinity County is currently prosecuting its first human trafficking case after a woman told sheriff's investigators in December that Gilbert Cha sexually assaulted her and tried to block her from leaving. Christopher Wayne Gamble has been convicted of murdering and decapitating a 17-year-old and the boy's father. Both worked on Gamble's illegal marijuana farm in Northern California. "She was held against her will at the cultivation site," said Saxon, the Trinity sheriff. " When she wanted to leave, she was assaulted, she was threatened and an attempt was made on her life. She was lucky enough that when she made her escape, it was in a populated area, and he was unable to get her back under a control." Cha, 67, of Sacramento, maintains his innocence on charges of rape, poisoning, human trafficking, false imprisonment and illegally possessing marijuana for sale. The District Attorney's victim advocate, who asked that her name be withheld for her protection, said she helped connect the woman to services and will coax her through the court process. Sgt. Nate Trujillo, a detective with the Trinity County Sheriff's major crimes unit, said listening to the accuser describe her ordeal was "very eye-opening" and likely similar to cases that remain unreported. "It was very emotional for me to hear the things the victim went through the terror." More: He reached 'kingpin' status by selling Mexican cartel-supplied drugs. But betrayal awaited Mexican cartels and other criminal syndicates are advertising in publications in Europe seeking seasonal workers in and around the Emerald Triangle, said Lelehnia DuBois, former chair of the Humboldt County Human Rights Commission. She met with two female workers who described abuse they endured here. "If they didn't take their clothes off, they were stun gunned," DuBois said. "They would have to dance and walk around naked at night after working on the farm all day. And they were made to cook dinner. "This was organized crime, a cartel, taking advantage of the ability to grow and hide up here." The victims, who shared only their first names with DuBois, left the area without reporting the abuse to police. DuBois said some workers don't report abuse because they fear being blacklisted from farms when they need the income. This scenario is far too common. Often, victims who may be intimidated by police or scared of the illegal cultivators and don't speak English refuse to cooperate with the investigation. "We've got Mexican cartel groups coming up to grow pot, and people from Bulgaria, France and Russia," said Brady, the Trinity district attorney. In a case of labor trafficking, three young men recently told sheriff's investigators they were held on an illegal grow site in Trinity County against their will and were told they each had to pay $3,000 for transportation out of the mountains. After they were rescued, they fled back to Mexico without leaving contact information. No victim, no case. "It's hard to get victims to testify," Trujillo said. "They're scared." Cartels are operating with impunity there The Courier Journal spent about two weeks in Northern California and Southern Oregon in April and May to learn about the frequent claims of abuse of workers and animals on illegal cultivation sites. We talked with several regional sheriffs, local residents, prosecutors, cultivators, farmworkers, animal rescue workers and trafficking victim advocates. The problems on some of those sites, including workers living without electricity or plumbing, are emblematic of a larger problem throughout the region and stretching into Southern Oregon. Robert Hammer, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in the Pacific Northwest, said many Americans would be stunned if they realized the prevalence of modern-day slavery associated with illegal marijuana grows. Graffiti on a wall at an illegal marijuana grow in Northern California glorifies Mexico's infamous Sinaloa Cartel. Some Mexican cartel members have moved to Southern Oregon to operate large cannabis operations, and other cartel members supervise U.S. grows from Mexico during communications with cultivators, Hammer said. Agents have confirmed U.S. cannabis grows by both the Sinaloa Cartel, once led by notorious drug lord "El Chapo," and the lesser-known powerhouse Cartel Jalisco Nueva Genercion, known as CJNG or the Jalisco Cartel. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration blames these top two cartels for the bulk of illegal drugs in the U.S., including deadly fentanyl, according to an unclassified 2020 DEA intelligence report. While Mexican cartels seem to control the largest amount of illegal marijuana grows in the area, Hammer said agents also have verified criminal networks from China, Bulgaria and Russia. Homeland Security Investigations agents are working with local non-profit organizations to reach out to victims of sex and labor trafficking to earn trust essential for catching and prosecuting the abusers. Hammer's office also has helped train narcotics investigators in two hard-hit southern Oregon counties, Jackson and Josephine, which border California. U.S. Rep. Jared Huffman, who represents California's North Coast region, said he believes human trafficking is a "localized crisis" across parts of his district, especially in towns such as Covelo in Mendocino County. In 2021, The Courier Journal spent a week in that area, learning about Mexican cartel encroachment in Covelo, a small town in a valley in a northern part of the county that includes the Round Valley Indian Reservation. "Cartels are operating with impunity there," the Democratic congressman said, citing limited sheriff's department resources to police an expansive area. Huffman said he's exploring options, including possibly cross-deputizing members of local tribes to increase police manpower. Criminal organizations are drawn to the Emerald Triangle because of its remoteness, which includes extensive mountains and lush forests that offer camouflage for illegal grows. Graffiti on truck in North California mountains announcing this as a patrol unit for Mexico's infamous Sinaloa Cartel. Even when police or code enforcers get a bird's eye view from helicopters, illegal grows look the same as legal ones, so more legwork must be done to match the coordinates with existing permits. There are about 380 permits approved or pending to legally grow cannabis in Trinity County, Brady said. And illegal growers, estimated to total in the thousands, know they far outnumber law officers here. In Trinity County, it takes four hours to drive from the southern part of the county to its northern border, yet there are only 22 deputies when the department is at full staff. There are no city police officers. Backup for deputies can take an hour. Often there are only two deputies on a shift patrolling the county's sprawling 3,200 square miles, nearly twice the land mass of Rhode Island. And many of its rugged dirt roads snake up into the mountains, so growers, positioned up high, can hear police caravans and see dust clouds in time to run into the woods to avoid arrest. Trujillo, in charge of illegal marijuana investigations, said he has seen signs of the Sinaloa Cartel, including a white truck spray-painted with "CDS Patrulla," Spanish for the Cartel de Sinaloa patrol. Cartels often mark trucks and SUVs with graffiti in Mexico as a show of force to intimidate others. Black market grows are a top concern in Shasta County, east of Trinity, which formed its own MET or Marijuana Eradication Team, last year. "What we're dealing with are DTOs drug trafficking organizations and the Mexican cartels are a big player," said Lt. Chris Edwards, with the Shasta County Sheriff's Office. "Think of (Interstate) 5 as a big vein. It goes all the way from the Mexican border into Canada, and it's a drug route" to cart illegal marijuana and other drugs in and out of the county. "There are areas I won't go fish and hunt and hike in," he said, after finding guns and ammunition on illegal grow sites. "It's a major problem, and we're doing our best to combat it." Many of these folks are victims It's hard to quantify the extent of the abuse workers suffer on illegal marijuana grows, but law enforcement officials believe it's common. "We're opening our eyes," said Saxon, the Trinity sheriff. "We're having a paradigm shift. "As law enforcement, for years and years we treated everyone as suspects" at non-permitted grow sites. "Now, we're realizing that many of these folks are victims." Saxon and the other two sheriffs in the Emerald Triangle teamed with Butte and Lake counties last year to form an anti-human trafficking coalition. Their deputies are learning how to spot signs of sex and labor trafficking, which means victims are held against their will and might have endured everything from unsanitary living conditions and unpaid wages to sexual abuse. Victim advocates have started going with law enforcement to illegal cannabis grows in Jackson County, Oregon, to talk with potential victims of labor or sex trafficking and let them know about resources to get help. "The training is beginning to pay off," said Kendall, the Mendocino sheriff, who referred a sex trafficking case to prosecutors. He declined to discuss details about the ongoing case, but it involves a woman brought in from Mexico. The sheriff said his investigators also busted an illegal grow last year where workers were living in squalor and were labor trafficked, but the victims opted not to speak out against their boss. Victims of sex or labor trafficking can find confidential help by calling the 24-hour National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 with services in Spanish and English. Also, local law enforcement can investigate abuse and connect victims to area services. The Polaris Project non-profit organization offers information about labor and sex trafficking and how citizens and governments can help at www.polarisproject.org. For more information about the rights of farmworkers in the Rogue Valley, contact UNETE Oregon at www.uneteoregon.org. His deputies also stumbled upon a frightened 16-year-old in 2021 brought from Mexico and dropped off at an illegal marijuana grow in Covelo. She didn't speak English and had no idea where she was or how to get home. Deputies believe she was brought in as a sex slave for workers. No one was charged, but county officials eventually reunited her with relatives. Police in the Emerald Triangle now frequently team with victim's advocates to check on workers' welfare at grow sites using a screening tool from the Northern California Coalition to Safeguard Communities. They separate workers from the farm boss and ask several questions, including if the workers have access to their identification, if they know where they are, if they have enough food and get sufficient sleep and if they are getting paid what they were promised. If someone says they want to leave, they are offered help. He now considers the area uninhabitable As April turned to May, Trujillo suited up with a protective vest and gun and headed out to serve search warrants at eight grows, suspected to be illegal, south of Weaverville in the Hayfork community. The veteran Trinity detective knew the risks. When he and four deputies went to extract a group of workers off an illegal grow toward the county's southern edge in 2019, a gunman opened fire with a rifle. Trujillo fired back. The workers escaped into the woods, and the gunman tried to run but was captured and prosecuted. The incident started when landowner Lawrence Leggitt, now 70, learned someone was trespassing on his 160-acre property and growing marijuana. He was living in another city while building a house on the property. Investigators near the Gold Hill area of Jackson County, Oregon, carefully approach an illegal marijuana grow site, aware that growers are often armed. The gunman, Luis Hernan Cornego Becerra, originally from Michoacan, Mexico, had a "Sur 13" Surenos gang tattoo on his neck, according to police photos. He eventually pleaded guilty to assault with a deadly weapon and was sent to prison. Leggitt said he stopped building the house and now considers the area, dotted with illegal hoop houses, "uninhabitable." Trespass grows on private land are becoming more common. But some property owners lease to cultivators. And cartels and other large criminal syndicates have bought parcels. Recently, when Trujillo headed south of Weaverville to search several suspected illegal grows in the communities of Hayfork and Trinity Pines, known to locals as "Pot Mountain," he took a lot of backup about a dozen armed deputies from Trinity and Siskiyou counties. Some of the roads were cut by traffickers and are bumpy paths with large potholes, at times slowing police SUVs to 10 mph. Illegal growers prefer the rough ride, which slows down would-be thieves, as well as police. Sometimes they also tear down street signs to make it harder to find their location. During some of the searches, investigators found military-grade bullet-resistant vests and guns that included assault rifles with scopes and makeshift silencers. At some of the sites, skinny guard dogs were chained to trees or in small cages. Banned pesticides also were found chemicals that can seep into the ground and water supply. Rescue Ranch in Siskiyou County, at the northern border of California, helps prepare dogs for adoption. Many were rescued from illegal cannabis grows. Small plywood structures to house workers, with no plumbing for showers or toilets, are common at grow sites. That's little protection from chilly nights that can plummet below freezing, with snow continuing through April. Some workers have died of carbon monoxide poisoning after using propane heaters without proper ventilation. And summers without air conditioning or fans can be sweltering. Trash is often piled high. "I've seen open sewer pits, having to go to the bathroom in buckets," Trujillo said. "Fleas and flies and dogs. Sleeping in tiny shacks. The conditions they live in are almost like a third-world country." No charges of worker mistreatment were leveled during Trujillo's searches that day. Two of the cultivators who were searched told The Courier Journal they had state growing permits but didnt wait for their county permit because the process was too long and confusing. More: Tennessee prisoner charged with running drug ring behind bars linked to Mexican cartels Tip of the spear Across state lines in southern Oregon, police have strong allies as they battle worker abuse on illegal grows. Jackson County Sheriff Nate Sickler said his county has faced illegal grows for years, so he sought state and federal assistance. "For Oregon, we were kind of at the apex or the forefront, the tip of the spear for illegal marijuana. In 2021, we got absolutely bombarded with thousands and thousands of illegal grows." The sheriff's pleas for help resulted in assistance from Homeland Security Investigations. Jackson County Sheriff's investigator at site of illegal cannabis grow in Southern Oregon. Oregon state lawmakers also helped fund services for victimized workers, who often need counseling, emergency housing and a ticket back to their hometown or country. Like their counterparts in northern California, local authorities and advocates also battle a reluctance by victims to speak out about labor or sex trafficking. "Victims dont want to talk against the cartel because of the risk to them and to family members back in Mexico," Sickler said. Homeland Security Investigations teams with local non-profits to reach exploited workers. In Southern Oregon, they turn to UNETE Oregon, a center for farmworker advocacy. It offers services in English and Spanish and has been helping farmworkers and immigrants in the Rogue Valley area for 26 years. "We believe there are a lot of missing people" who disappear from illegal cannabis grows, said Dagoberto Morales, UNETE's director. Dagoberto Morales, the director of UNETE Oregon, a center for farmworker advocacy, says farm workers at legal and illegal cannabis grows often are underpaid and exploited. He pointed to one case where two men from Mexico were last seen in Medford, Oregon, headed to a cannabis farm in Yreka, a city in Siskiyou County, which is sandwiched between Jackson County, Oregon, to the north and Trinity County to the south. In another case, a man from Spain said he was victimized on a grow in Josephine County, to the west of Jackson County and bordering California. The man told Morales he was promised $120,000 but was paid $300. When the worker demanded his earnings, the growers shot at him. He ran, hopped into his car and sped off as a truck followed him. He hid out in the woods for a couple of days before escaping. Sheriff's officials called UNETE to go and pick up the victim. Sometimes the cultivators show workers their guns or even shoot into the air, serving as a warning to follow orders, Morales said. He said other workers are made to work 16 or more hours without a break and sometimes without a meal. And women are sometimes sexually assaulted. They come from Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Spain, Honduras, El Salvador, Venezuela and Colombia and have often spent all of their money to get to the cannabis farms, Morales said. Workers on illegal cannabis grows like this one in Jackson County, Oregon, are sometimes lured to the region with promises of hotel rooms and six-figure salaries. They often live in squalor without a bed or clean water. "It's a nightmare," he said. "And it's hard for them to get out. Some people feel trapped." Saxon, the Trinity County sheriff, said: "I think we're just now cracking the surface of what is going and how long it's been going on. "For those individuals who think: 'I can go to this grow site and trim for three months and make a whole boatload of money,' hopefully, they will open their eyes and realize that maybe it's not such a good idea." Staff writer Connor Giffin contributed to this report. Reach reporter Beth Warren at bwarren@courier-journal.com, 502-582-7164 and on Twitter @BethWarrenCJ. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Cartel-backed pot grows linked to California, Oregon human trafficking The attorney for Nima Momeni, the man accused of fatally stabbing Cash App founder Bob Lee in April, withdrew from the case on Tuesday, saying she had a conflict of interest. Attorney Paula Canny told a gaggle of reporters she withdrew, and was not fired. "Im not his lawyer anymore. I dont represent Nima Momeni anymore. Im not sure who his new lawyer is going to be," Canny said. "Mr. Momeni waived time, which means he gave up his right to have a preliminary hearing within 10 court days So, the next time you come to court, youll see who his new lawyer is." Momeni, an Iranian national, was arrested on April 13, just nine days after allegedly stabbing 43-year-old Lee in a dispute over his sister, Khazar Momeni, who is married to a prominent San Francisco plastic surgeon. CASH APP'S BOB LEE VISITED SUSPECT'S SISTER HOURS BEFORE MURDER. ARGUED WITH ALLEGED KILLER, COURT DOCS REVEAL Court documents show that a witness told police the suspect confronted Lee earlier that night for allegedly using drugs with his sister. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP The two were seen on surveillance video leaving an apartment building together later that night, before getting into Momenis vehicle. Investigators allege the two drove to a parking lot where Lee was stabbed in the heart with a kitchen knife and seen stumbling on Main Street in the Rincon Hill neighborhood of San Francisco. As he stumbled, Lee begged for help and called 911. Nima Momeni, left, is jailed in San Francisco on a murder charge in the stabbing death of Cash App founder Bob Lee. San Francisco police say the two knew each other. CASH APP FOUNDER BOB LEE'S SAN FRANCISCO STABBING LINKED TO SEX AND DRUGS PARTY LIFESTYLE: REPORT Lee ultimately died in the hospital, where doctors performed an emergency thoracotomy an incision through the rib cage to treat his wounds, the autopsy report noted. Canny was asked by a reporter on Tuesday whether she actually had a conflict of interest, and she responded by saying under penalty of perjury, she was pretty sure she did. Heart symbols are exchanged between Nima Momeni, the 38-year-old founder of software company Expand IT, and family members as he appears before Judge Christine Van Aken, accused of the stabbing murder of Cash App founder Bob Lee in a courtroom sketch in San Francisco on April 14, 2023. "Its both with great disappointment and relief that Im here. Its just a super messed up situation," Canny said. "S*** happens in representing people. Its just like that." Canny said she was unable to detail the exact conflict of interest. Fox News' Michael Ruiz contributed to this report. Rain Newton-Smith is the new director-general of the CBI The boss of the CBI business group has admitted the result of a vote on its plans for change following allegations of sexual misconduct is "critical". Rain Newton-Smith said there was "no doubt" that the vote among its members on reforms at the organisation was a "really important moment for us". She told the BBC the CBI had spoken to more than 1,000 firms in recent weeks. The group is fighting for survival after allegations of rape and sexual assault against staff. The misconduct claims have resulted in some big household names among its 190,000-strong membership to leave, including John Lewis and BMW. Others such as Tesco and Sainsbury's have also suspended engagement with the group. The government has also paused activity with the CBI. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has said there was "no point" working with the lobby group when its own members had deserted it. Remaining members began voting on Wednesday on the CBI's "programme of change", which has been designed to restore trust in the body. The result of the vote, to be revealed at an extraordinary general meeting on 6 June, is likely to be seen as a key vote on the future of the organisation. The group has suspended its day-to-day operations due to the allegations and will only resume work if members back its plans for change. CBI director-general Ms Newton-Smith, said the group had "listened" and was "taking accountability". "I don't think anyone had given up on us yet," she told the BBC's PM programme. "I wouldn't be here to lead the organisation if I thought everyone had given up on what we represent. What is clear is that we need to show that we have our members behind us....that they believe in this programme of change that we are setting out." The CBI boss said with inflation, slow economic growth and the cost of living hitting businesses, the UK needed an "organisation that can speak across regions and nations" and one that "can speak on behalf of sectors, that can speak on behalf of our farming community, that can speak on behalf of the very large businesses". "We can be that voice where we have the trust of our members," she added. Earlier on Wednesday, the CBI announced its president Brian McBride would step down earlier than planned as part of an overhaul of the leadership of the embattled group. Mr McBride is to start the search for his successor, with the handover due to take place in the new year. When the first allegations of harassment and sexual assault emerged in early April, the lobby group asked the law firm Fox Williams to investigate. Following the release of the Fox Williams report, Mr McBride began an examination of the CBI's governance. As a result of this work, the group will begin an accelerated search for Mr McBride's successor, the CBI said on Wednesday. Other moves include a refresh of the CBI board, and the creation of a new committee to focus on people and human resources matters at the CBI. What is the CBI? The CBI - the Confederation of British Industry - speaks to the government on behalf of around 190,000 businesses. These firms employ millions of people. It is one of the UK's most prominent lobby groups and, according to its former president Paul Drechsler, was instrumental in protecting millions of jobs during the Covid pandemic by helping the rapid roll-out of the furlough scheme. The CBI campaigned against Brexit. Once the UK voted to leave the European Union, it lobbied the government to secure a trade and co-operation agreement. It also aims to promote and share best practice among its members. Founded in 1965, today it employs around 300 people. Mr McBride said the group was making "significant and fundamental changes" to improve the organisation. "We remain determined to restore the confidence of our members, and that of our many stakeholders, in the CBI," he added. The allegations at the CBI include claims of harassment and sexual assault including two allegations of rape, one at a summer party held by the group in 2019, another at one of its overseas offices. The City of London Police is currently investigating the rape allegations. The director general of the CBI, Tony Danker, has already been dismissed. He was the subject of separate complaints of workplace misconduct, unrelated to the sexual assault and rape claims, for which he has apologised. As some industry leaders warn of the potential dangers of artificial intelligence, other executives are embracing the rapidly developing technology and say they already are finding ways to incorporate it into their operations. In a series of interviews, six chief executives projected optimistic visions for the role they foresee AI playing in their respective industries. They also laid out ways AI could benefit customers from restaurants to retail services and e-commerce opportunities. In an event Wednesday, The Economic Snapshot: CEO Summit, The Hill Editor-in-Chief Bob Cusack hosted conversations with United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby, National Restaurant Association President and CEO Michelle Korsmo, Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen, National Retail Federation President and CEO Matthew Shay, Altana AI co-founder and CEO Evan Smith, and Ebay President and CEO Jamie Iannone. McMullen predicted AI will help Kroger tailor customers experiences to their personal flavor preferences and also help ensure freshness through supply chains. We think AI will be a huge benefit, in terms of improving the customer experience, personalizing every offer exactly for that particular familiar and understanding what flavors they like, McMullen said. For us, its more about how do we help associates be able to do their jobs easier and how do we make the customers experience be more positive, more fun. Already, McMullen said, Kroger is deploying test examples of 2D codes, which can use AI technology to help determine how many days of freshness a product has. Were able to make sure that something that we sell to the customer has at least five days of freshness left on it when they buy it, he said. We havent scaled those types of things, but we actually are testing it in stores. For restaurants, industry leaders are discussing ways to deploy AI in taking customers orders and also in the hiring process, as a worker shortage still persists across the industry. Korsmo said she just attended a conference a Chicago where restaurants were discussing the large language models needed to take peoples orders. She gave the example of a Wendys drive through, where peoples orders wont always match the corporate name for the product. So those large language models have to be able to process the different ways that people would order in a way that they understand how to put that order through that has as much accuracy as possible, Korsmo said. It really is about, how do we do this to improve the customer experience, and in a drive-thru environment, that customer experience is all about speed, consistency, and accuracy. Korsmo said that AI can make a substantial difference in hiring practices. AI technology can screen applicants so that businesses can get back to applicants in a timelier manner and even set up an interview. For airlines, Kirby said AI technology can help airlines communicate directly with customers and avoid communication hiccups. Smiths startup is focused primarily on using AI to collect the data to build the Google Maps for supply chains, he said. The technology he is pioneering connects previously siloed data and to create a shared source of truth. One could theoretically be able to ask a machine, Smith said, What happens to my business if China invades Taiwan? and have that answer contextualized. Iannone said eBay has been using AI technology for years, but its efforts recently have expanded. eBay has a beta test available for sellers, Iannone said, that will identify products and write the product description for them. Iannone said if a seller found an old remote they couldnt identify, eBays AI technology would automatically write the description for the device, so that a prospective buyer looking for that remote would be able to purchase it. What Im excited by is what AIs going to do to unlock for our sellers the ability to bring more of that inventory onto the platform, Iannone said, adding that the average household has $4,000 worth of items that could be sold on eBay and less than 20 percent of that is being sold. In the retail space, Shay said he sees enormous potential upsides for retailers, but also warned of the potential for mischief. I think there are enormous potential upsides for retailers, in terms of delivering customized, personalized experience and increasing the efficiency of customer engagement, improving supply chain efficiencies and improving sustainability successes, he said. While he echoed calls for regulation, Shay said he was not optimistic lawmakers would take action, adding, its really incumbent upon all of us that are going to be impacted, as citizens and as stakeholders, to encourage congressional leaders to enact an appropriate roadmap to make sure that we get the most of the promise of AI, without getting the worst of the peril. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Gov. Katie Hobbs announces actions that Arizona is taking to stop fraud against the Medicaid system and exploitation of AHCCCS members during a news conference at the Arizona state Capitol in Phoenix on May 16, 2023. Theres hope yet for Gov. Katie Hobbs. On Wednesday, she named veteran Democratic strategist Chad Campbell as her new chief of staff. Campbell is a former four-term legislator and strong in ways that Hobbs, surprisingly, is not. Most importantly, hes strategic, he has good relationships on both sides of the aisle and he knows how to go about winning what is or should be achievable. Hell help Hobbs avoid further blunders with Democratic legislators, who have been largely sidelined and at times absolutely blindsided by an administration that clearly was not ready for prime time. Gov. Hobbs has had her share of blunders Exhibit A has been Hobbs inability to get the Republican-controlled Senate to confirm more than a bare handful of her Cabinet appointees. Exhibit B was her handling of the tamale bill, which was a case study in a Governors Office that has been largely disengaged from the Legislature. The bill, to legalize the already common practice of selling homemade food on the street, breezed through the Legislature with overwhelming bipartisan support, only to be vetoed by Hobbs. The surprise move left some sizable bruises on her Democratic allies, who then had to scramble to spare Hobbs from the indignity of an override. Exhibit C: The budget. Long story short, Hobbs gave up more than she got, abandoning her vow to rein in the states runaway universal voucher law to the chagrin (and surprise) of her own Democratic allies who were cut out of the negotiations. Campbell knows how to work with lawmakers One Democratic consultant, who like most declined to publicly criticize the governor, called Hobbs handling of the budget a debacle. I dont think her team ever had a strategy, the consultant told me. I dont blame this on her. This is her team. Gravitas: What Hobbs needs to become governor again So its out with the head of her team, former social worker Allie Bones, and in with Campbell, a longtime politico who understands how to work with the Legislature and how to leverage the not-inconsiderable power the governor already has at her fingertips. Expect to see him get to work immediately on a plan for what Hobbs can achieve next year as opposed to her focus thus far, which primarily has been on what she can prevent via her well-used veto stamp. Priorities he should address: Vouchers, water Me? Id like to like see Hobbs find a way to slow the growth of universal vouchers, an initially projected $33 million program now headed to $900 million next year. But the Legislature has only budgeted $500 million in next year's budget. So where's the rest going to come from? (Don't say the surplus. Our leaders have already spent that.) While shes at it, she could work to ensure that all children have access to free all-day kindergarten. Democratic Gov. Janet Napolitano won state funding of all-day K, on the condition that she would not veto the Republicans initial school voucher program. But all-day K was a casualty of the Great Recession. Hobbs should spreadhead the drive to bring it back. She also should take a stand on water. Its beyond ridiculous that this state is not taking swift action to stop the wholesale pumping of Arizonas dwindling rural water supply or to explore what the state will do now that we know there isnt enough water available to support planned development in the West Valley or likely, elsewhere. Now we know: Hobbs can learn from mistakes Most immediately, Campbell needs to figure out a way to negotiate a deal to gain legislative approval to put Proposition 400 Maricopa Countys soon-to-expire transportation tax on the 2024 ballot. Republican lawmakers despise light rail. So much so that theyre willing to block voters from deciding whether they want to continue funding the Valleys freeways, arterial streets, buses and yes, those hated light-rail trains. This alternative is to stifle the economy and job growth in this, the fastest growing county in the country. Then there's the need to repair some bruised relationships. Campbell has his hands full. And Hobbs, in appointing him, has shown she can learn from her mistakes. 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: Gov. Katie Hobbs proves she can learn from her mistakes Brandi Williams had been up for two straight days smoking crack cocaine when she realized she was going into labor. It was a cold Tennessee morning in December 2014, and Williams had to pull herself together to get to a hospital. She borrowed a car from a friend whose excessive alcohol use required him to have a breathalyzer attached to the car's starter. "Here I am in full-blown labor, driving myself and I can feel the baby's head, like, right there," Williams recalls. "And I'm having to blow in this damn machine or the car would shut off." She made it to the hospital in time. As she walked through the doors to give birth to her daughter, Williams made one last preparation before delivery. She tossed her crack pipe into a trash can. Brandi Williams (Courtesy Brandi Williams) Underneath Williams' raw honesty lies a layer of sad humility. "I was ashamed that I was still getting high while pregnant. I was ashamed because I couldn't quit." Treatments for drug addiction during pregnancy are safe for both the mother and the baby, doctors say. Methadone and buprenorphine, for example, can reduce cravings and help users carry a pregnancy full term, without long-lasting effects on the baby. But shame and stigma, the same that Brandi Williams felt, stop many pregnant women from seeking help. A bigger deterrent, however, is the crippling fear that their babies will be taken away by state welfare authorities. Some states, based on their interpretation of a federal law, view substance use during pregnancy as child abuse so heinous that it deserves criminal prosecution. That's why a growing number of experts including maternal/fetal specialists, federal health officials and people who treat addiction are calling for changes to the laws. "We should remove criminalization of women who are pregnant and taking drugs," Dr. Nora Volkow, head of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), said in an interview. "That needs to stop." Substance use disorder "does not diagnose anyone's ability to parent," said Dr. Hendree Jones, executive director of the University of North Carolinas Horizons Program, a drug treatment program. "I have a woman getting ready to deliver, and she is terrified that somehow they're going to find drugs in her system and Child Protective Services is going to be called and her baby's going to be snatched away," Jones said. A study published Wednesday in the Maternal and Child Health Journal that included 26 pregnant women in Massachusetts found that the decision whether to take anti-addiction medicines "was entirely wrapped up in what happened with respect to mandated reporting to Child Protective Services at the time of delivery," said Dr. Davida Schiff, the study author and an addiction medicine specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Women in the study felt "intense anxiety and stress" under the threat that they would be reported to CPS. "This has led to many women either deciding to not start life-saving medication during pregnancy or to wean off of that life-saving medication during pregnancy and really risk poor outcomes for themselves and their babies," Schiff said. The effects are not limited to Massachusetts. "Across the entire country, we're seeing a general trend toward more punitive policies, and those are kind of the policies that consider substance use during pregnancy to be child abuse or neglect," said Laura Faherty, a policy researcher at the RAND Corporation. Calls for change have an urgent timing. The rate of women with opioid-related diagnoses at the time of delivery increased by 131% from 2010 to 2017, according to a 2019 study. Research is ongoing, although addiction experts expect yet another significant rate increase after 2017. And the No. 1 cause of preventable death among pregnant and postpartum women in particular isn't pregnancy-related at all. It's drug overdose, NIDA's Volkow said. "We know that mortality from overdoses is greater in women that are pregnant than counterparts of the same age that are not pregnant," Volkow said. "This is extraordinarily important because it's telling us that there's something that is making these pregnant women more vulnerable." According to a study published last year, the number of pregnant women and new mothers dying of drug overdoses reached a record high in 2020: 11.85 per 100,000, up from 6.56 per 100,000 in 2017. 'Fetal personhood' and substance use In 1974, Congress passed the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, known as CAPTA. It requires states to have a plan in place to address and respond to child abuse and neglect. The law has been revised over time, and now includes a provision that suggests child abuse can include babies born affected by drug withdrawal. It is up to each state to determine how to interpret CAPTA. Twenty-five states and Washington, D.C. consider substance abuse during pregnancy to be child abuse, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive health and policy research group. Those states require health care professionals to report any suspected prenatal drug use to authorities. But doctor-prescribed medications that pregnant users take to counter addiction, such as methadone or suboxone, can show up temporarily in newborns without long-lasting health effects, doctors say. "We know that medications for opioid use disorder decrease risk of overdose deaths. They also improve pregnancy outcomes. It makes it more likely babies" will be born full term, said Dr. Stephen Patrick, a neonatologist and director of the Vanderbilt Center for Child Health Policy in Nashville. Local communities and even individual hospitals may further interpret the law differently, leaving many expectant mothers and their doctors unsure about how to comply, if at all. Indeed, a growing number of experts worry CAPTA and its state interpretations have gone too far when it comes to the definition of "abuse" in utero. "The intention of the law may not have been punitive, but the way it plays out in any particular community or in any particular child welfare office can sometimes feel punitive," said Dr. Marian Jarlenski, associate director of the Center for Innovative Research on Gender Health Equity at the University of Pittsburgh. "This is likely to become much more complicated as states are banning or criminalizing abortion care. We're moving into a 'fetal personhood' situation," Jarlenski said. Others say the criminal focus on substance use during pregnancy is misguided. "What is the problem we're trying to solve?" said Patrick. "I treat far more complications from untreated diabetes in the NICU than I do from opioid use disorder." "Imagine if we approached someone with uncontrolled diabetes and said, 'Listen, if your baby's born weighing 12 pounds because you have uncontrolled diabetes, you may have child welfare involvement,'" Patrick said. "That sounds crazy." Pregnant women left without help Use of both legal and illegal substances has skyrocketed in recent decades, so it should come as no surprise that many women are already drinking alcohol or using drugs, like opioids, when they become pregnant. Yet, resources to help these women who become pregnant can be hard to find. "Addiction specialists can be kind of reluctant or hesitant to treat pregnant people," Dr. Jeannie Kelly, medical director of maternal-fetal transport at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. "It can be a really daunting group of patients to treat because youre worried" about which treatments are safe during pregnancy. "On the flip side, obstetricians traditionally aren't very well trained in addiction care," Kelly said. We're left with a "perfect storm that leaves patients without anyone who feels comfortable taking care of them," she said. A path to sobriety That day in 2014, Brandi Williams knew she would not be able to bring her newborn daughter home to a dangerous environment in which, Williams said, she couldn't even take care of herself. She gave the baby up for adoption, but keeps in touch with the family who has been raising her. The little girl suffered no long-term health consequences. "She is so freaking smart," Williams said proudly. Williams, now age 40, got sober in 2021 with the help of suboxone. She remains on the drug because "it beats the hell out of me sticking a needle in my arm." Williams has a steady job and is pursuing a degree in psychology so she can one day provide substance use counseling to others in need. "If I can come out of something like this, everybody can come out of it," Williams said. "You just gotta want it bad enough." Follow NBC HEALTH on Twitter & Facebook. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The House Debates Debt Limit Legislation As Default Draws Near House Speaker Kevin McCarthy speaks to members of the press as he arrives at the U.S. Capitol on May 31, 2023 in Washington, DC Credit - Alex WongGetty Images This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox. Even the members of the House Rules Committee couldnt help but comment darkly about the unusually cramped hearing room and groan about the political performance art unfolding around a last-minute compromise designed to sidestep a seismic economic tremor. Hillary Clinton says it takes a village. I say it takes a bigger room, said Rep. Jim McGovern, the top Democrat on the Rules Committee that was working on the first procedural step to help Washington dodge a debt default. I dont know if we can get more people in this room. A short time later on Tuesday, Rep. Thomas Massie, a hard-right Republican who had teased he might tank the debt ceiling deal struck between Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Democratic President Joe Biden nodded to the self-made drama in the room. Im reluctant to disclose how I might vote on this rule because then all the cameras leave, said Massie, who coyly added that he needed to read the actual rule before he could commit. (Yes, the committee hearing began without a finalized draft, any printed copies of it, or even the actual cost projections.) Ultimately, the Kentucky Republican voted just before 9 p.m. in support of the deal, sparing McCarthy a defeat on an early procedural vote. Republicans could afford to lose only two votes on the Rules Committee, and Massie stood to have been the third. With that, the cameras are dismissed, he said ahead of the roll call vote. Welcome to yet another crisis week in Washington, a city where responsible governance seldom draws the same level of rewards as chaos and cliffhangers. Its why you could hear meaningful exhaustion among Republicans and Democrats who have been through such standoffs before, and are bracing for more of them under what may be the weakest House Speaker in generations. Todays bill is a product of compromise and reflects the realities of the divided government, said Republican Rep. Tom Cole, the typically staid chairman of the Rules Committee. We shouldnt allow that to overshadow what this bill accomplishes. As Ive often said, in a true negotiation, you always get less than you want and give up more than youd like. Or, as Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, a Pennsylvania Democrat, sniped: This isnt legislation. This is hostage taking. It may be a hallmark for the balance of the current Congress, with McCarthy a prisoner of his own making. His first test was the Rules Committee, the unassumingly powerful panel that determines the process for most bills of any significance once they get to the House floor. Typically stacked with allies of the Speakers team, McCarthy from the start surrendered spots to zealots from his own party who have shown little regard for norms and a penchant for shattering them. Traditionally, the members of the minority party never vote to send legislation to the floor, meaning it comes down to selling the majority, regardless of party. The threatened GOP mutiny on Rules was as predictable as it was maddening. And Tuesdays standoff is far from the last one. This deal hammered out between McCarthy and President Biden was never going to clear the House with a 435-to-0 margin, but the close nature of it has both parties worried. Hence, the series of votes set for Wednesday on final passage isnt slated to begin until after 8 p.m. so McCarthy and other leaders have the full day for more horsetrading. The incentives to turn routine governance into gamesmanship remain just as strong as ever. Theres few easier ways for a lawmaker to get plum bookings on conservative media than to pose a threat to McCarthy, and those spots convert to campaign cash quickly. The current clash has been months in the making. When McCarthy was hobbling toward the speakership, he made a number of concessionsboth formal and off-the-booksto his conservative flank to get them on board. It eventually worked on the 15th round of balloting, but McCarthy is now widely perceived as the weakest incoming Speaker in recent history. Any one of his crew can call a snap election, and the threat has never been more pronounced than amid these debt-ceiling talks. Factually, McCarthy enjoys the narrowest majority for a newbie Speaker since 1931; he won the prize but perhaps traded away every tool he had to safeguard against the rowdy right wing of his caucus. Now, facing a June 5 hard deadline for the United States to allow itself to borrow more cash to pay the bills already due, McCarthy is trying to shepherd what should be a routine vote to success. Hes doing so with almost zero margin of error and at the mercy of Democrats who can spare him a crushing defeat. In chasing his dream of the speakership, McCarthy conceded to conservative hardliners demands, including a handshake agreement brokered behind closed doors that gave them effective veto power over what their colleagues could vote on during open session by turning the Rules Committee into a meaningful check on the floor. It was, from the start, a swampy start to a House majority that publicly declared their new governing rules as rooted in transparency. Rep. Chip Roy, a Freedom Caucus member from Texas who clawed a seat on the Rules Committee after voting against McCarthy on 11 ballots, has for months said he had secured an off-the-books agreement that the Speaker needed all nine Republicans on the Rules Committee to back legislation. Roy spent most of Tuesday explaining his contempt for the compromise product, which takes the debt limit off the table until after the 2024 election. This does not represent any material change, Roy said as the Rules hearing hit the three-hour mark. Roy and Rep. Ralph Norman of South Carolina had said they oppose the deal, which would suggest the negotiated agreement between McCarthy and Biden should be D.O.A. ifand its a big ifthe Freedom Caucus fully understood then and is honestly communicating now what McCarthy had given in concession. It also assumes any of their fellow Freedom Caucus shared their sense of betrayal, and what they might demand as penance. We should have walked away, Norman said from the dais in that packed room Tuesday night. Granted, its a small majority. But its a majority. We can do it. But elsewhere on Capitol Hill, others tried to dodge questions about McCarthys future in the role. And in that condition, there are plenty of risks for McCarthy and the legitimacy of his clutch on the gavel. Should he come to rely on Democratic support on the upcoming vote, the health of his speakership suddenly looks like its catching a cold or worse. Even before the Rules Committee gaveled in, #MotionToVacate McCarthy was trending on Twitter, a reminder that a single Republican member can bring to the floor a vote to remove the Speaker. McCarthy understands the stakes. He spent the holiday weekend at the Capitol wrangling votes and on the phone with the White House. Administration aides took a similar weekend-and-the-desk approach, trying to whip votes for a deal that will ultimately need bipartisan support on the floor. The leadership team of the centrist New Democratic Coalition signaled its support, suggesting as many as 98 Democrats were in play. The Congressional Progressive Caucus and the Congressional Black Caucus were polling their members, too. Things look no more certain in the Senate, where delay tactics abound. Conservatives there are unhappy that the cuts didnt go deeper, some like Sen. Rand Paul questioned if negotiators were ever serious about real limits on spending. (Progressives are also grumbling about elements of the deal such as the limits on food stamps, but some of that irritation faded late Tuesday when the official spending scorekeeper, the Congressional Budget Office, reported that the changes would yield a net 78,000 more participants in the nutrition program, catching even its biggest defenders by surprise.) Still, the Senate has proven a more sober governing partner, and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has been consistent in saying there would be no default because of his team. With 60 Senators needed to advance the deal that chamber without tremendous headaches, Bidens team was careful to negotiate to a place that could draw at least 10 Republican Senators, knowing House Republicans were ready to blame any failings on their brethren down the hall. Even so, a tailspinning economy remains on the horizon if Washington cant get its act together. The closed-door speakership deals back in January made the backroom deals this spring all the more tenuous, and McCarthy is just now starting to understand that winning the gavel may not ultimately have been worth the tradeoffs. Especially if a handful of rabbles inside his own caucus can imperil his biggest negotiated win so farand the ecosystem around them rewards it. Make sense of what matters in Washington. Sign up for the D.C. Brief newsletter. Charges refiled against Mayor Cavalier Johnson's brother, who is accused in 2022 shooting Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson speaks during the Heal the Hood Block Party and Resource Fair on May 27 in Milwaukee. The case against Allen Addison will resume after prosecutors brought new charges against the brother of Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson a day after previous charges were dismissed. According to court records, Addison was again charged with first-degree reckless injury and possession of a firearm as a felon, accused of shooting a man who a month earlier intervened when Addison was hitting a woman, according to the criminal complaint. The case was dismissed Tuesday after prosecutors said an essential witness was unavailable and the defense motioned to dismiss, which Milwaukee County Circuit Judge David Feiss granted, but allowed for charges to be brought again. On Wednesday, court records show, Addison was mailed a summons to report to court June 20, meaning he has not been booked into jail. Addison was originally arrested for the first charges in relation to this case on March 30, 2022, six days before Johnson was elected mayor. Our subscribers make this reporting possible. Please consider supporting local journalism by subscribing to the Journal Sentinel at jsonline.com/deal. DOWNLOAD THE APP: Get the latest news, sports and more This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Case against Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson's brother resumed When Dan Goldstein, a West Palm Beach physical therapist, was vacationing in Norway recently, he saw an unusual sight. A skeleton was perched atop the organ pipes in Oslo City Hall, the setting where the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony is conducted every year. Goldstein took photos of the skeleton on the organ and did a Google search for an explanation, but it came up empty. His friend suggested he research it on ChatGPT, an online artificial intelligence source that gathers a wide range of data from a variety of sources to serve as a kind of knowledgeable personal assistant capable of conversationally answering questions, and writing everything from college essays to business correspondence to newspaper columns on the spot. Disney on thin ice: Suggestions for 'fixing' Disney movies after DeSantis' takeover Cerabino: Dear Mar-a-Lago Club members, this FBI raid is going to cost you More: E-Verify system in Florida aimed at scaring off workers in worst jobs. Who will fill in? Skeleton atop pipe organ at Oslo City Hall in Norway And yes, when Goldstein asked ChatGPT about the skeleton, it knew all about it. And in great detail. "The skeleton above the pipe organ in the Oslo City Hall is known as the "Death Organ" or "Ddsorgel" in Norwegian. The skeleton is positioned in a seated position above the organ pipes, with its hands resting on the keys of the organ. The skeleton is made of plaster and was created by Norwegian artist Emanuel Vigeland, who was commissioned to decorate the hall in the early 1900s. The Death Organ is meant to symbolize the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. The organ itself was also designed with a special sound to evoke a sense of mortality, with deep and mournful tones that are said to resemble a funeral march." One man's quest for putting some meat on the skeleton story After he returned home from Norway, Goldstein mentioned to a client how impressed he was with the magical computer capabilities of ChatGPT. How do you know its true? she responded. Skeleton on organ at Oslo City Hall in Norway Well, now, he had to know. So, Goldstein sent an email to an Oslo tourist guide with an explanation of the skeleton from ChatGPT and a request for verification on the skeletons history. He was surprised by the answer he got in return. It was put up there as a prank from the night guard for the day guards, and it was there only maybe half a day before it was removed again, the response said. I would say this story of Chat GPT shows we should not trust what it says at least not yet. Nothing in the text was correct. Goldstein told me the story of the Oslo skeleton and ChatGPT, and that made me want to see for myself. And when I asked ChatGPT to give me the history of the skeleton on the pipe organ, it gave me a completely different, and very detailed, fictitious answer. A case of multiple fake stories? The skeleton above the pipe organ is named Leif, and has an interesting history that dates back to the 1930s, ChatGPT told me. The story behind Leif goes back to the time when architect Arnstein Arneberg and artist Hugo Lous Mohr were working on the design of the building. As legend goes, during a conversation about the organ loft, Mohr jokingly suggested placing a skeleton there to keep the organist company. Arneberg found the idea amusing and decided to incorporate it into the design. However, the idea was not entirely without meaning. The explanation went on with four more detailed paragraphs that included some symbolic meanings people have given to the skeleton over the decades. And it contended that it wasnt a real human skeleton, but a plaster and iron rod creation of artist Carl Nesjar, who worked with Mohr on the decorations in the city hall building. Today, Leif continues to fascinate visitors to Oslo City Hall, serving as a quirky and thought-provoking piece of art, the explanation said. Goldstein got the Death Organ response. And I got Leif. His story said it was created by Norwegian artist Emanual Vigeland, and mine said it was the work of Carl Nesjar. And neither of these detailed histories dovetailed with each other or the simple truth. Yikes. It isnt hard to see the downside of such an authoritative source of misinformation. Palm Beach Post columnist Frank Cerabino Using ChatGPT while acknowledging its shortcomings I spoke about this with Diane Gayeski, a professor of strategic communications at Ithaca College. Gayeski requires her students to use ChatGPT as a research tool, while acknowledging its limitations, and the ease in which it enables sloppy research and plagiarism. It knows how to be very convincing while making things up, she said. And its very good at connecting dots that shouldnt be connected. She used her own bio on ChatGPT as an example. It claims that she has won the State University of New York Chancellors Award, even though she has never taught in the SUNY system or won that award. It probably thinks I should have won that award by now, Gayeski said. Gayeski said she wants her students, who often go into careers in corporate communications, to use ChatGPT as a starting point for gathering information. For example, give me an example of a letter I can write to a $100 donor to make them a $1,000 donor, she said. Its a good way to get something down on paper when youre looking at a blank screen. Gayeski said that college professors, as well as students, are using it. Its being used by professors to design quizzes or to write course syllabi for subjects they might have to teach for the first time. She puts the quality of the output it creates at a B-minus, C-plus level. Its better using it for things you cant make up, like answering questions in calculus or coming up with sentences in basic Italian, she said. I asked ChatGPT to write a column in my voice about ChatGPT. Heres a snippet of the column it instantly wrote for me: I must admit, when I first encountered ChatGPT, I was skeptical. Could a machine truly engage in meaningful conversation and provide intelligent responses? But let me tell you, dear readers, I was pleasantly surprised. Let me tell you, dear readers, I was not pleasantly surprised. On behalf of the temporary prank skeleton on the organ at Oslo City Hall, my advice is be afraid, be very afraid. Frank Cerabino is a columnist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at fcerabino@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: The skeleton, ChatGPT, and the pitfalls of relying on AI Chenango Valley High School student struck and killed by oncoming train in Town of Fenton A teenager was struck and killed by an oncoming train while walking along railroad tracks Tuesday afternoon in the Town of Fenton. The Broome County Sheriff's Office identified the victim as 17-year-old Jakob McCloe, of Port Crane, a junior at Chenango Valley High School. Around 8:45 a.m. Tuesday, sheriff's deputies responded to a 911 call of a pedestrian-train collision near the Crocker Hill Road area of the Town of Fenton, the sheriff's office said. An investigation by sheriff's office detectives determined McCloe had been walking westbound on the Norfolk Southern Railroad Tracks at the time. McCloe appeared to be wearing noise-canceling headphones and was unable to hear the train approaching as he walked, according to investigators. The engineer of the train attempted to signal multiple times to get McCloes attention but he still appeared unaware that the train was approaching. The engineer was unable to stop the train, and at 8:53 a.m., McCloe was struck, the sheriff's office reported. He was pronounced dead at the scene. After a thorough investigation of the scene, extensive interviews and a review of camera footage of the train, our detectives have determined that this tragic loss of life was nothing other than a terrible accident, Sheriff Fred Akshar said. Public safety Broome County man pleads not guilty to felony charges in hit-and-run death of teenager For subscribers Bill to restore Tappan Zee Bridge name may fizzle again as NY lawmaker session nears end State news NY poised to crack down on illegal marijuana shops. Here's how it'll work The Chenango Valley Central School District sent a letter to parents Tuesday afternoon, informing them of the death of a student. The letter did not name the victim or any other details, but said counseling was available through the guidance office for anyone struggling with grief. Interim Superintendent Michelle Feyerabend sent out an updated statement to school district families Wednesday, once the Broome County Sheriff's Office released McCloe's identity. "This devastating loss has deeply affected our school community. Jakob will be remembered for his charisma, sense of humor, and care for his teammates and friends," Feyerabend wrote. "During this difficult time, it is important that we come together as a community to support one another." 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 Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Broome County high school student struck and killed by train The Kherkatta reservoir in Chhattisgarh, India An Indian official who made headlines after he drained a dam to retrieve his phone has been fined by the government. Rajesh Vishwas has been ordered to pay 53,092 rupees ($642; 519) for pumping out millions of litres of water without seeking permission from authorities. He had dropped the device while taking a selfie and claimed it needed retrieving as it contained sensitive government data. But he has been accused of misusing his position. The food inspector dropped his Samsung phone, worth about 100,000 rupees, into Kherkatta Dam in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh last week. After local divers couldn't find the phone, he paid for a diesel pump to be brought in, Mr Vishwas said in a video statement quoted in the media. The pump ran for several days, emptying out thousands of litres of water, but by the time the phone was found, it was too waterlogged to work. At the time, Mr Vishwas had told the media that he had verbal permission from an official to drain "some water into a nearby canal", adding that the official said it "would in fact benefit the farmers who would have more water". But the authorities suspended Mr Vishwas from his post over the incident. And a few days back, the state irrigation department sent him a letter penalising him for his actions. The BBC has seen a copy of the letter. It stated that Mr Vishwas had wasted 4.1 million litres of water (880,000 gallons) for his "personal interest" and that he had to pay for the water as well as a penalty of 10,000 rupees for "evacuating water without permission". It added that his action was "illegal" and "punishable under Chhattisgarh's Irrigation Act". When first reported, the incident had triggered outrage in the country. Many politicians criticised the official's actions and said that the water could have been put to better use in a country where several regions face water shortages, especially in the scorching summer months. 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: Chicago mayoral candidate Brandon Johnson participates in a public safety forum on March 14. Chicago mayoral candidate Brandon Johnson participates in a public safety forum on March 14. Chicago has a new mayor who promised big changes to the citys widely controversial police department and one of his first big tasks will be selecting a new police chief. Mayor Brandon Johnson started his campaign with 2% in polls before surging to a stunning win. Johnson told Chicagoans his plan was to bring a new approach to public safety in Chicago, which above all would strengthen police accountability and work with the citys Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability to dismantle systemic racism, strongly enforce long-needed police accountability reforms, and evaluate department goals and performance. Johnsons plan included enacting an ordinance to end no-knock warrants, erasing the citys racist gang database, publishing arrest and traffic stop data, among other reforms. While Johnson did say he would not defund the police, as his runoff opponent Paul Vallas charged in an attack ad, Johnson did say he would redirect money in Chicago to establish a more holistic approach to city public safety. Johnson has already appointed Fred Waller as the interim top cop in the city. The public safety commission has to submit three candidates to Johnsons desk by July 14. He will have 30 days to make a choice or reject the list in entirety. During a press conference, Johnson said he tapped Fred Waller to serve as interim chief due to his experience and integrity. It was a controversial choice after Waller was previously suspended from the department and then eventually retiring in 2020, after he compared aspects of police reform in the department to rape. While homicides over the last four months in the city have been down by 10%, the totals are still at a record high since the mid-decade, with 695 killings in 2022 a significant jump in murders in the city compared to the year 2015 where 468 people were killed. Johnsons office did not respond for comment about the selection process. In recent years, the city has been riven by shocking cases of police brutality. The citys police department remains under a federal consent decree after Chicago police officer Jason Van Dyke murdered Laquan McDonald, a Black 17-year-old, in 2014. Adam Toledo, a 13-year-old Latino, who was killed in 2021 by another Chicago cop, Eric Stillman. There were no criminal charges in the case, though it furthered an already strained relationship between the police and the residents they are supposed to protect. A 2020 survey from the Chicago Tribune found that while 80% of white residents said police made them feel safer, less than half of Black people said the same. Only 33% Black men between the ages of 18 and 25 agreed. The survey also noted that many Black residents felt that the relationships between local city police and the community was fractured, reporting that 34% of young Black men surveyed felt the relationship between police and the community was very bad. Their white counterparts were found at 69% to believe that community relations with police were very good. A police vehicle dash cam video of the moments after Laquan McDonald was fatally shot is displayed for jurors, as Chicago police officer Jason Van Dyke attends his first degree murder trial on Oct. 3, 2018, for the shooting death of McDonald. A police vehicle dash cam video of the moments after Laquan McDonald was fatally shot is displayed for jurors, as Chicago police officer Jason Van Dyke attends his first degree murder trial on Oct. 3, 2018, for the shooting death of McDonald. Aside from the high-profile police killings, the reasons for this distrust are well documented. Findings from the American Civil Liberties Union reported in 2019 that CPDs stop and frisk policies were disproportionately targeting Black residents in neighborhoods, finding that roughly 70% of all pedestrian stops were Black people while Black people make up only 33% of the citys population. The ACLU found in 2014 that there were 250,000 such stops that never led to the arrest of an individual. Chicago residents were also stopped four times more than New York residents at the peak of New Yorks stop and frisk practices. In 2021, the ACLU sued the department for a social media monitoring program, which began monitoring people following the protests after the murder of George Floyd. The ACLU said the monitoring program was a red flag surrounding the citys history with surveillance and concerns around citizens who garnered protests through social media engagement. This is a city where you had the tragedy of Laquan McDonald but the other tragedy of the mayor to cover it up. That is what happens when you have an all-powerful mayor who controls everything, Anthony Driver, the president of CCPSA, told HuffPost. Amidst it all, there has been long-running instability at the top of the department. Since 2016, there have been five different police superintendents, with all of them serving as the top cop for no longer than three years. Three of them, including Waller, have come to serve as acting police superintendent over the last three months. Officers are leaving, too: As of 2022, there were a total of 11,710 sworn police officers in the department at the start of the year, but last August that number took a dip after over 1,000 police officers left the force. Kenneth Corey, the director of outreach and engagement at the University of Chicago Policing Leadership Academy, said each transition creates chaos. The average life expectancy of a police chief in a big city today is about three years. So that also goes to the point of making it very difficult to make progress on reform, in Chicago for example, within the confines of the consent decree, Corey told HuffPost. This has become a reality in many major city departments. The average police chief tenure is around 7.3 years, but in larger agencies with 1,000 or more employees they tend to stay for no more than five years, policing researchers say. Anytime there is a change at the top of the police organization, it creates chaos in the [organization] and that chaos stifles any type of innovation or growth in the agency. Lower people never know where they are going to be sitting, Corey said. Johnson is doing things differently this time around it will be the first selection process where the community will have a closer hand as to selecting who will be the top cop. Driver, who told HuffPost the accountability commission has operated for nearly eight months, has held seven town hall community open forums, talked with over 300 people, and has had at least 120 hours of engagement with the community surrounding the process of selecting a new police superintendent. He sees community input as a step in the right direction. Police search the downtown area in Highland Park after a shooting at a Fourth of July parade on July 4, 2022. Police search the downtown area in Highland Park after a shooting at a Fourth of July parade on July 4, 2022. That has never happened in our city before. Because they never had an option, they never had a choice. It was up to Daley, Emmanuel or Lightfoot, Driver told HuffPost. If community policing is going to develop into a reality in Chicago, officers need more support and stability, said Meocole Jordan, who is spearheading Chicagos community policing initiative as the advocacy director for the policing project at NYU School of Law. As we are thinking about a superintendent for Chicago, he or she must be willing to lead by example and understand the importance of this and understand how true policing and building trust is the benefit of everyone, Jordan said. He or she has to buy into that idea and make sure they are enforcing proper training, expectations and measurements as they are working the districts. Evelyn Bradshaw, a 35-year-old Black woman who has lived in Chicago her whole life, said much of the distrust between police and the community is due to the lack of respect officers display to citizens they are supposed to protect. Bradshaw told HuffPost she remembers seeing her brothers being stopped and searched by police on a number of occasions with no arrest to happen afterwards. Bradshaw said she wants to educate her son on his rights. I hope it does not happen to my son, but I am going to make sure that he is properly educated, she said. Just a week and a half ago, officers were canvassing the front yard of Bradshaws home. She was caught off guard by their presence, but it was not the first time she walked out her door to police in her yard, and the officers at the location never initiated contact with her despite being on her property. Each time she found a group of officers in her front yard, they would say there was a shooting, or that a gun was found in her yard, or that they were searching for shell casings. At first, Bradshaw did not think much about it. But as officers continued to arrive in her yard unannounced, her skepticism increased. They could be planting stuff, I dont know. But my job is to protect my children so we feel safe, she said. The citys police superintendent will have to instill a change in the department, and much of that effort goes towards finally establishing trust with Chicago citizens. There is no switch that you flip, Corey said. They have to have a clear vision and plan for how they are going to combat crime and build community trust in Chicago. Related... Chick-fil-A is rebuilding a drive-thru in California after residents complained about traffic congestion Brandon Bell/Getty Images Chick-fil-A is rebuilding a drive-thru in Santa Barbara, CA, after its long lines disrupted traffic. Changes include adding an extra lane, new ordering stations, and widening the entrance driveway. The fast-food chain is known for having long lines at its drive-thrus. Chick-fil-A is rebuilding a drive-thru in Santa Barbara, California, after residents complained about traffic congestion. The franchise owner of the restaurant, which is located on upper State Street, told Insider that it would temporarily close from May 22 through late July to make changes. These include converting the drive-thru from one lane to two, adding new ordering stations, widening the entrance driveway, and reconfiguring the existing parking lot to remove 15 parking spaces and add more bike racks, filings with the city council show. The plans also include changing the exit so that vehicles can't turn left into oncoming traffic. The bustling restaurant had caused numerous traffic problems for the city, leading to complaints from residents, and multiple collisions had taken place in front of the site. But this Santa Barbara restaurant isn't the only one to have irritated local residents. A number of Chick-fil-A restaurants across the US have annoyed residents, other businesses, and city representatives because of their massive drive-thru lines that snake down the road and cause traffic buildups. In some cases, this has led to lawsuits. Earlier this year, officials in Charlotte, North Carolina, told a problematic Chick-fil-A restaurant to demolish its building and start over with a drive-thru-only model. Studies show that it takes eight-and-a-half minutes to go through the drive-thru at Chick-fil-A, which is considerably slower than at McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King, and a number of other fast-food chains. This is because the restaurant is so popular that there is almost always a line of cars. The Santa Barbara restaurant's franchise owner told local news site Noozhawk that it serves between 1,700 and 2,200 customers daily. In late 2021, Santa Barbara City Council said that Chick-fil-A had been "actively pursuing" ways of combating its long lines, including taking orders outside and car service. But this didn't solve all the problems. "In recent years, the queuing from Chick-fil-A's drive-through onto State Street has created serious traffic congestion, as well as hazardous conditions for pedestrians, cyclists, and those with disabilities," Santa Barbara City Council said in March 2022. That June, the City Council approved the restaurant's proposed traffic circulation agreement after previously threatening to declare it a public nuisance and even shut down its drive-thru. The agreement included hiring a designated traffic attendant, adding more staff during peak hours, looking for off-site parking for staff, preventing truck deliveries during peak hours, and not allowing armored cars servicing the site to park on State Street, local news publication The Santa Barbara Independent reported. Read the original article on Business Insider (Bloomberg) -- Chinese scientists have begun drilling a 10,000-meter (32,808 feet) hole into the Earths crust, as the worlds second largest economy explores new frontiers above and below the planets surface. Most Read from Bloomberg Drilling for what is set to be Chinas deepest ever borehole began in the countrys oil-rich Xinjiang region on Tuesday, according to the official Xinhua News Agency. Earlier that morning, China sent its first civilian astronaut into space from the Gobi Desert. The narrow shaft into the ground will penetrate more than 10 continental strata, or layers of rock, according to the report, and reach the cretaceous system in the Earths crust, which features rock dating back some 145 million years. The construction difficulty of the drilling project can be compared to a big truck driving on two thin steel cables, Sun Jinsheng, a scientist at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, told Xinhua. The project will provide data on the Earths internal structure, while also testing deep underground drilling technologies, according to China National Petroleum Corp., which is spearheading the project. The drilling is expected to take 457 days. Read this next: Chinas $23 Trillion Local Debt Mess Is About to Get Worse President Xi Jinping called for greater progress in deep Earth exploration in a speech addressing some of the nations leading scientists in 2021. Such work can identify mineral and energy resources and help assess the risks of environmental disasters, such as earthquakes and volcano eruptions. The deepest man-made hole on Earth is still the Russian Kola Superdeep Borehole, which reached a depth of 12,262 meters (40,230 feet) in 1989, after 20 years of drilling. (Adds details on the purpose and duration of the project in fifth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. China says US should stop dangerous acts of provocation after spy plane intercept China called on the U.S. to stop its dangerous acts of provocation on Wednesday after a Chinese fighter jet intercepted an American spy plane over the South China Sea last week. For quite some time, the U.S. side has frequently sent aircraft and vessels to conduct close-in reconnaissance on China, seriously threatening Chinas sovereignty and security, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a daily press briefing. Such provocative and dangerous moves are the root cause for maritime security issues, she added. The U.S. needs to immediately stop such dangerous acts of provocation. Officials with U.S. Indo-Pacific Command on Tuesday accused a Chinese J-16 fighter pilot of conducting an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver, after it flew directly in front of the nose of an RC-135 aircraft on Friday and forced the American spy plane to fly through the wake of its turbulence. The RC-135 was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law, American officials said in a statement. The U.S. also released a video of the encounter, which shows what appears to be a fighter jet zooming by the American spy plane. The incident comes after China rejected a U.S. request for a meeting between the defense chiefs from both nations. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said at a news conference in Lulea, Sweden, on Wednesday that the encounter underscored the importance of maintaining regular, open lines of communication, including between the countries defense ministers. As weve said repeatedly, while we have a real competition with China, we also want to make sure that doesnt veer into conflict and the most important starting point for that are regular lines of communication, Blinken added. Both China and the U.S. have seen relations plummet amid growing concerns that Beijing will invade Taiwan to reunify it with the Chinese mainland. China sees the self-governed island as historically part of the mainland, but the U.S. is alarmed about the possible takeover of a democratically governed and independent nation. The nations have also butted heads diplomatically over rival expansions across the Indo-Pacific region and after a Chinese spy balloon floated over the U.S. mainland in February. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. FILE PHOTO: People line up at a bus stop during evening rush hour in Beijing Chinese graduates lower their ambitions in moribund jobs market FILE PHOTO: People line up at a bus stop during evening rush hour in Beijing By Laurie Chen BEIJING (Reuters) - Applied maths graduate Liang Huaxiao tried to land a job with one of China's tech giants for two years. Then she tried customer service and sales. Then she applied for assistant roles in a bakery and in a beauty parlour. Like a rising number of her highly educated peers, Liang keeps trading down to try and find a source of income in China's worst youth job market on record. "Finding a job has been really difficult," said the 25-year-old, who lives with her parents in the northern industrial city of Taiyuan. "I told my family that I'm willing to take up manual labour and my mum straight-up cried. She felt so sorry for me." Economists expect such examples to become increasingly common in coming years, as a glut of university graduates and a shortage of factory labour due to an ageing workforce deepen China's job market imbalances. Youth unemployment hit a record 20.4% in April, and a new high of 11.58 million university students are due to graduate this summer. All are competing for jobs in what remains one of the world's fastest-growing major economies, but whose manufacturing-heavy structure is increasingly out of step with the aspirations of its younger generations. The industries most popular among fresh Chinese graduates, such as tech, education, real estate and finance, have all faced regulatory crackdowns in recent years. Some of the measures have been rolled back, but business sentiment has been slow to recover: private investment rose only 0.4% in January-April, while state investment rose 9.4%. "China's education raced ahead of the economy, which means that more diplomas were handed out than were needed by a manufacturing-based economy," said Keyu Jin, author of 'The New China Playbook', which documents the country's economic ascent. "There's a big mismatch between expectations and the reality of the economic circumstances." 'ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES' It is unclear exactly how many graduates are taking jobs below their skill level, but state media has acknowledged the trend. State media editorials have encouraged young graduates to "roll up their sleeves" and by profiling a woman in her 20s who became a refuse collector after a brief stint as an accountant. President Xi Jinping repeatedly exhorted young people to "seek hardships" in a recent state media article emphasising his suffering during the Cultural Revolution. But the message hardly resonates with today's youth who take prosperity for granted. China's education and human resources ministries did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Beijing has urged state-owned enterprises to recruit more graduates and began to expand vocational training schools to fill shortages in advanced manufacturing. Some local governments, including Shanghai, are offering employment subsidies for firms hiring 2023 graduates. Others have gone on a hiring spree themselves. The service industries at the forefront of China's post-pandemic recovery offer few high-skilled roles. "Many white-collar service positions have vanished", said Chim Lee, an analyst at the Economist Intelligence Unit. "Jobs being created are predominantly in areas not requiring higher education, such as catering and tourism." 'TIRED OF IT' On platforms like Xiaohongshu, China's equivalent of Instagram, some graduates tout the joys of "taking off the scholar's long gown" and avoiding China Inc's notorious "996" schedule of working from 9.00 am to 9.00 pm, six days a week. "Young people no longer believe that someone's value comes from studying hard or career success," said Han Zhaoxue, a 26-year-old public administration master's graduate who now co-runs a rural homestay after rejecting low-paid offers. Programming graduate Wang, 23, earns less than 3,000 yuan ($420) per month delivering food part-time in the eastern city of Jining. "The threshold for entering the programming industry continues to rise. I couldn't find jobs at major tech firms and hated working unpaid overtime during my internship at a small firm," said Wang, giving only his surname for privacy reasons. "I was really tired of it so moved back to my hometown," he said, adding he is now studying for the civil servant exam. Liang, the applied maths graduate, is still unemployed and "seriously considering" hawking. "I can't think of any more industries that I haven't applied for," she said. (Reporting by Laurie Chen; Editing by Marius Zaharia and xxx) A Chinese fighter jet flew directly in front of the nose of a U.S. reconnaissance plane over the South China Sea on Saturday, the Defense Department said Tuesday, another in a rising number of incidents involving Chinese military aircraft and ships. The unnecessarily aggressive maneuver by the Chinese J-16 forced the U.S. RC-135 to fly through the fighter jets wake turbulence, according to the Pentagon, which released video of the encounter. The Pentagon said that the U.S. plane was conducting safe and routine operations in international airspace, in accordance with international law. On Wednesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the "Chinese pilot took dangerous action in approaching the plane very, very closely. There have been a series of these actions directed not just at us, but in other countries in recent months." Late Monday, the Pentagon reported that China had rejected a U.S. request for Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to meet with his Chinese counterpart in Singapore. The Pentagon had suggested a meeting between Austin and Li Shangfu on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue, an annual security forum held from June 2 to June 4. Blinken said the Saturday incident "underscores why it is so important that we have regular open lines of communication, including by the way between our defense ministers. Its regrettable that the meeting that Secretary Austin sought did not go forward." "The most dangerous thing is not to communicate and as a result, to have a misunderstanding and miscommunication. And as weve said repeatedly while we have a real competition with China, we also make sure that doesnt veer into into conflict and the most important starting point for that are regular lines of communication." We have seen an alarming increase in the number of risky aerial intercepts and confrontations at sea by PLA aircraft and vessels, a senior Defense Department official said, using the initials for Chinas Peoples Liberation Army. As leaders have said, actions such as these have the potential to create an unsafe incident or miscalculation. A People's Republic of China J-16 fighter pilot performed an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver during the intercept of a U.S. Air Force RC-135 aircraft, May 26, 2023. The PRC pilot flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the U.S. aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence. The RC-135 was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law. The United States will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Joint Force will continue to fly in international airspace with due regard for the safety of all vessels and aircraft under international law. We expect all countries in the Indo-Pacific region to use international airspace safely and in accordance with international law. (U.S. Air Force) A spokesperson for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said that U.S. concerns about the interaction will be addressed through the appropriate, established diplomatic and military channels. On Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said frequent U.S. naval and aerial surveillance in the region had long endangered Chinas national security. Such provocative and dangerous actions are the root cause of maritime security problems, she said at a regular news briefing in Beijing. Mao said China will continue to take necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and security. Past incidents In February, a Chinese J-11 fighter jet appeared about 500 feet off the left wing of an American P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and remained for well over an hour. The U.S. plane was flying above mostly uninhabited islands that are claimed by both China and its neighbors. A voice from a Chinese military ground station warned the U.S. plane, No approaching any more or you will pay full responsibility. In December 2022, a Chinese plane passed within 10 feet of a U.S. aircraft. Two months ago, Chinas military said that it had driven away the USS Milius after the U.S. guided missile destroyer illegally intruded into Chinas Xisha territorial waters without the approval of the Chinese government. The U.S. said the ship was conducting routine operations and was not expelled. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Chris Christie, former NJ governor, will announce his candidacy for president in 2024 race Former Gov. Chris Christie will seek the presidency. Christie will announce his candidacy for the Republican nomination in 2024 at an event next Tuesday evening at St. Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, two sources with knowledge of his campaign plans confirmed Wednesday. The planned announcement was first reported by Axios. In addition, key supporters of Christie's campaign have formed a super PAC. When did Christie run for the presidency? This isnt the 60-year-old former governors first foray at running for the nations highest office. After being courted for a run in 2012, Christie made an effort for the 2016 race but was beaten in the New Hampshire primary by Donald Trump. The defeat swiftly shut down his candidacy. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie addresses a gathering during a town hall style meeting at New England College, Thursday, April 20, 2023, in Henniker, N.H. Christie quickly jumped on the Trump bandwagon and helped the former president prepare for debates in the run-up to his victory. Christie also worked to help Trump in preparation for debates in the 2020 cycle, in which the 45th president lost to President Joe Biden. But times have changed. Despite a decades-long friendship, Christie has been one of the most vocal Republicans to denounce the president for his refusal to accept the outcome of the 2020 election. What has Christie done since leaving office? Since leaving office, Christie has returned to his roots as a lawyer. Hes also served as a political analyst and legal contributor for ABC News. Hes worked as a lobbyist in Washington and has a seat on the board of directors for the Mets. Charlie Stile: Are Chris Christie's attacks on Donald Trump theater? Or cunning strategy? Voter guide: NJ's primary election is June 6. Here's what you need to know What did Christie accomplish as NJ governor? Christie, a two-term governor, had legislative wins including instituting public employee health and benefits reforms, the complex merger of Rutgers and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, and the overhaul of the criminal justice system, which notably eliminated cash bail. He reached new heights in popularity due to his response to Superstorm Sandy but is perhaps better remembered for controversy than policy. During his bid for reelection in 2013, traffic problems in Fort Lee, the political revenge scheme that is now known as Bridgegate, brought about a downturn in Christie's public approval and was viewed by many as a derailing factor in his chance at securing the presidential nomination in 2016. Christie was never found to have known about or had involvement in the revenge plot. Others might remember photos from July 2017 when Christie and his family enjoyed a holiday weekend at the beach during a state government shutdown. Before his time as governor, Christie was elected to the Morris County Board of Freeholders and served as U.S. attorney for New Jersey from 2002 to 2008. Many Republicans running for president Christie will face a contentious primary field including South Carolina's Sen. Tim Scott, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and Trump. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced his candidacy last week. Katie Sobko covers the New Jersey Statehouse. Email: sobko@northjersey.com This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Chris Christie will announce run for president in 2024 election Photograph: Charles Krupa/AP The former New Jersey governor Chris Christie will reportedly announce a second run for president next week, seeking to take the political fight over the 2024 Republican nomination to Donald Trump. Related: Chris Christie derides Ron DeSantis for being outfoxed by Disney The news site Axios first said Christie, 60, would launch his campaign in Manchester, New Hampshire, on Tuesday. Trump dominates Republican primary polling, leading his closest challenger, the Florida governor, Ron DeSantis, by more than 30 points in most polling averages. DeSantis, who endured a glitch-filled campaign launch on Twitter last week, is pursuing the same hard-right supporters as Trump. Other candidates, including the former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, the South Carolina senator Tim Scott and the former Arkansas governor Asa Hutchinson, have sought to distance themselves from the two men but have not made an impact. Citing members of Christies campaign team, Axios said he planned to offer Republicans a happy warrior who speaks his mind, takes risks and is happy to punch Donald Trump in the nose. The former governor aims to run a national race a non-traditional campaign mixing it up in the news cycle and engaging Trump, the site quoted a Christie adviser as saying. The adviser added: Will not be geographic dependent, but nimble. A political heavyweight with a New Jersey brawling style, Christie rose to national prominence after winning election in 2009 but suffered in Republican eyes after being photographed working with Barack Obama in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, during the 2012 presidential election. In 2015 he left office under a cloud, amid the Bridgegate scandal about alleged political payback. Christie ran for the Republican nomination in 2016 but aside from brutally taking down the Florida senator Marco Rubio on the debate stage, failed to make an impression. He quickly endorsed Trump and was by his side as he won the nomination and then the White House. But Christie lost his role planning the Trump transition, he said because Trumps son-in-law, Jared Kushner, resented Christies role in putting Kushners father in jail. Christie proved unable to quit Trump, advising him through the 2020 election. He finally broke with him after the deadly January 6 assault on Congress. According to Axios, Christie now hopes to be joyful on the campaign trail, aiming to hit a more hopeful note aimed at Americas exhausted majority. Assessing Christies hopes, the Washington Post writer Aaron Blake said: Say what you will about Chris Christie; he is a smart man He must know that he has precious little chance in 2024 and while he has insisted this isnt just a kamikaze mission to take down Donald Trump, its difficult to see how it could amount to much else. Related: Chris Christie accuses Jared Kushner of political hit job in explosive new book Christie is expected to soon be joined in the race by Doug Burgum, the North Dakota governor, and Mike Pence, the former Indiana governor and vice-president to Trump. Polling has shown the potential for a large primary field to split the vote and hand Trump the nomination without a majority, as happened in 2016. Bill Kristol, a conservative commentator and Trump critic, said: Chris Christie behaved reprehensibly from 2016 through 2020. Also, I wish him well in his efforts to stop Donald Trump or Ron DeSantis from being the Republican nominee in 2024. Adam Kinzinger, a former Republican congressman from Illinois turned anti-Trump conservative, said that though he appreciated Christies newfound outrage, its important to remember he took down Rubio for Trump then dutifully endorsed him with googly eyes. Churchgoer arrested in connection to the death of a N.J. councilwoman On Tuesday, police arrested 28-year-old Rashid Ali Bynum for the murder of Eunice Dwumfour, who was gunned down in her SUV in front of her townhome on Feb. 1. A man who attended the same church as a New Jersey councilwoman has been arrested in connection to her February murder. According to ABC News, police arrested Rashid Ali Bynum of Virginia, 28, on Tuesday for the death of Eunice Dwumfour, a Sayreville borough councilwoman and church leader. His charges include first-degree murder. Dwumfour, 30, was gunned down in her SUV in front of her townhome on Feb. 1. Prince Dwumfour and his wife, Mary, parents of Eunice Dwumfour, are shown during their daughters funeral service at the Bethany Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey, on March 4, 2023. Police have made an arrest in the Feb. 1 murder of Sayerville Borough Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour. (Photo by Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com/USA TODAY NETWORK) I hope that today is the beginning of a healing process, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin said to Dwumfours family on Tuesday, and also the beginning of a sense of justice. Yolanda Ciccone, the prosecutor for Middlesex County, described the situation as a complex, incentive case, sharing that Bynum had looked online in the days preceding the murder to see whether magazines worked with a specific weapon. He allegedly looked up information about Sayreville and the Champions Royal Assembly church on the day of the shooting. Ciccone said Bynums phone traced from Virginia to New Jersey at the time of the murder, and his physical description matched that of the suspect as described by a witness at the scene. Dwumfour, a business analyst and part-time EMT was elected as a Republican to the Sayreville Borough Council in 2021, defeating an incumbent Democrat. In addition to her role as a politician, she was a mother of an 11-year-old girl. There are no words that can be said to you to make you whole, added Platkin, ABC reported. I did not know Eunice. I wish I had. But I know that she was a public servant. TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today! The post Churchgoer arrested in connection to the death of a N.J. councilwoman appeared first on TheGrio. CENTRAL NYACK - A New Jersey man is facing a charge of criminally negligent homicide after he was involved in a fatal crash on Route 59 Tuesday evening. Clarkstown police said officers responded to the scene of the crash near the intersection of Route 59 and Broome Boulevard around 7:15 p.m. Tuesday. The first officers who arrived found two heavily damaged vehicles. a gray Audi A6 and a black Ford Edge. Police said witnesses reported seeing a gray Audi being operated erratically while driving westbound on Route 59 from Waldron Avenue. As it approached the intersection of Broome Boulevard, it struck a Ford Edge being driven by a woman. Police said the impact of the collision sent both vehicles over the curb and into the Hub Shopping Center, where they came to rest. The driver of the Ford Edge was taken by Nyack Community Ambulance and Rockland Paramedics to Montefiore Nyack Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. Police said her name is being withheld, pending family notification. Eviction proceedings: Westchester tenants to get access to attorneys Federal case: Rockland yeshiva files civil rights lawsuit against Briarcliff Manor over ex-Pace campus Shots fired: Spring Valley police investigating after two men found with gunshot wounds The driver of the Audi was identified as Corey Womack, 24, of New Jersey. He also was taken to Montefiore Nyack Hospital for treatment, and was placed under arrest there. Womack was later taken to Clarkstown police headquarters, where he was awaiting arraignment in Clarkstown Justice Court on charges of criminally negligent homicide, a felony, and reckless driving, a misdemeanor. The name of Womack's attorney was not immediately available. Mike Randall covers breaking news for the Times Herald-Record, Poughkeepsie Journal and The Journal News/lohud. Reach him at mrandall@th-record.com or on Twitter @mikerandall845. This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Clarkstown police charge NJ man with criminally negligent homicide Sheep farmers Ian Rickman, 61, and Sean Jeffreys, 26, are working to diversity the grass in their fields Livestock farms need support to adapt to climate change targets or risk big job losses, government advisers have warned. Agriculture accounted for 14% of Welsh emissions in 2019 - two-thirds of which was methane from livestock and manure. A new report said livestock farms needed to "redirect" as society decarbonises to meet climate goals. The Welsh government said it was taking action to ensure a "just transition" to net zero. Wales, like the UK, has a legally binding target to reach net zero by 2050 which means dramatically cutting greenhouse gas emissions. But the body which advises ministers on climate change predicted these changes could have "significant impacts" on the farming workforce. Between 7,000 and 42,000 jobs could be lost across the UK unless livestock farms adapt the nature of their work, the Climate Change Committee (CCC) estimated. Sheep farmer Ian Rickman, 61, said the older generation needed "training and help to embrace new technologies and ways of working". "Producing food more efficiently" could help to lower the carbon footprint of farms, which were keen to be "part of the solution" on climate change, he said. 'I do worry for the future' Mr Rickman, who is deputy president of the Farmers' Union of Wales, recently brought in 26-year-old Sean Jeffreys as a partner at his 84-hectare farm near Bethlehem, Carmarthenshire. The duo teamed up via a Welsh government-funded scheme which connects new farmers with landowners who are looking to step back. They are working hard on the environmental aspects of the business, Mr Jeffreys said, including diversifying the grass in their fields to include herbs and legumes to boost biodiversity and soil health. "I do worry for the future to be honest with you," he admitted. "I feel like the governments in this country aren't putting enough focus on food security and if we're not careful farmland will be blanket planted [with trees] and we'll be importing from overseas. "We'll think we're green and sustainable, but we won't be." Welsh agriculture is dominated by sheep and cattle farming Farming was the "backbone of the rural economy", agreed Mr Rickman, and severe job losses would be "devastating". Penri James, visiting lecturer in agriculture at Aberystwyth University, said there needed to be "changes to the way farms operate". He urged "joined up thinking" in government strategies around climate change, farming, skills and employment. "There should be a huge amount of concern in government about how this transition is going to operate because if they don't get it right there will be significant job losses in rural areas and the disappearance of viable businesses." That would "also have a socio-economic effect, in particular on the Welsh language," he said. A spokeswoman for the Welsh government said it welcomed the report, which it said highlighted why its plans to transform farm support payments were needed. Its sustainable farming scheme, which comes in from 2025, would "support our farmers in the sustainable production of food, at the same time as addressing the climate and nature emergencies," she said. The UK government said its plans for green jobs would "ensure no workers are left behind". "Far from a hands-off approach, we are investing nearly 4bn in supporting people retrain," a spokesman added. A new climate change qualification is inspiring action among the first group of pupils in Northern Ireland to study it. A number of secondary schools offered the new GCSE-equivalent course in the last academic year. Reducing Carbon Footprints Through Environmental Action was developed by the environment charity Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful. Pupils learn about biodiversity, climate campaigning and fast fashion. The course's first cohort are now halfway through their studies. At St Colm's High School in Dunmurry, County Antrim, they have been travelling the world without leaving the classroom. "I've learned about the different situations all over the world, especially Sudan where the Sahara's blown in and destroying cropland and pushing people out of their homes into the cities," said Steven. 'I want to try harder' He took the qualification with an eye to his future career ambitions. These pupils say the course is changing the way they live "I want to go into transportation, like trucking. And with climate change it's definitely going to affect that field of work and change how it operates," he said. "I think it would be nice to learn about why it's happening and how my company can actually change it and benefit the world more." The students have also learned about their own impact on the world by examining their carbon footprint. Discovering how climate change is affecting the planet has changed how these teenagers are living. "It just makes you want to try harder," said Courtney-Ann. Pupils learn about a range of issues around climate change She said: "Because we do stuff in the house that we don't need. "We leave the heating on, we'll leave all lights on, we'd get long showers that we don't need and just all silly stuff like that, that you could just stop and cut down on and help out a lot. "It's just the little things you could do to change a big part of the world." The pupils are not the only ones learning new things. Teachers go on a one-day training with Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful. Geography teacher Chris Robb said: "I learned stuff that I had read about at university, that had sort of been buried right down in the mind closet." He said attitudes about climate change were evolving and the children were already working out ways to reduce their own impact. "If that means that they make a tiny wee change, then perfect. And if that means our planet isn't going to warm up as quickly as it is now, fantastic," Mr Robb said. The first cohort are now halfway through the course The pupils achieve a GCSE-equivalent grade B through coursework, without having to sit any exams. "I find that less stress-worthy," Mya said. "It's just easier, plus you get a good GCSE at the end. "It's been very interesting and given me more awareness, so yeah, I say any child out there do it, because it's good for you." More schools are expected to offer the course next year. Woman pouring tomato sauce, mayonnaise and mustard on a grilled pork sausage Bratwurst at a German Market. a well-sauced brat may become a thing of the past as climate change threatens ketchup's main ingredient Credit - Getty Images/iStockphoto Hold on to your Heinz. The latest looming food shortage is likely to include ketchup, coming hard on the heels of last years potato chip crisis and runs on mustard (in France, at least). Three summers worth of unprecedented high heat in the worlds key tomato-producing regionsAustralia, Spain, and Californias central valleyhave led to a precipitous decline in tomato paste stocks, the key ingredient for ketchup and other condiments. California, which produces a quarter of the worlds tomatoes, and 95% of the tomatoes used in U.S. canned goods, delivered nearly 5% less than the expected crop in 2021, and 10% less in 2022 due to the ongoing drought, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. Record-setting precipitation earlier this year helped with drought conditions, but it also flooded fields, forcing farmers to postpone planting, which could lead to reduced yields this year as well. Other grocery-store staples are likely to follow suit, as climate change, driven by ever-increasing fossil fuel emissions, wreaks havoc on crops ranging from corn to canola oil. The impacts will ripple through the supply chain in unpredictable ways, leading to higher prices and shortages of not just weather-sensitive fruits and vegetables, but also items that seem about as far removed from nature as a Flamin Hot Cheeto is from a cornfield. While our staple crops might eventually adapt to a warmer climate, evolution takes place on a timescale wildly out of sync with market demands. If ketchup, cocktail sauce, and marinara for pizza are to keep up with demand, science is going to have to step in to help speed things up. Tomatoes thrive in high heat, but like humans, they need cool nights to rest, especially when they are in bloom. If the hot nights of a heat wave last more than a few days, as they have started to do in major tomato-producing regions, the delicate yellow flowers wither on the vine, along with any hopes for juicy red fruit a few weeks later. Unlike, say, cereal companies that can switch suppliers when local crop shortages loom, most tomato-based product producers have vertically integrated supply chains: they provide their own seeds to contract farmers who grow to spec, and then transport the crop to processing facilities nearby that also belong to the producers. Most of those tomatoes are processed into paste, a shelf-stable ingredient that condiment companies depend upon to keep production running even when fresh ones are out of season. But three years on, those reserves are starting to run thin. This year is going to be critical, says Mariano Alvarez, an evolutionary biologist and chief scientist at Avalo, a North Carolina-based bioscience company. If they arent able to create a healthy harvest its gonna be challenging for anybody that uses tomato paste in their products. More from TIME Freakish weather has always been a challenge in agriculture, whether its the late-season cold snap that freezes fruit on the vine or an inopportune storm that flattens wheat just before harvest. But climate change is undermining some of the basic assumptions behind where, and when, we grow our crops. Age-old rivers are drying up. Hard winter freezes are increasingly rare, meaning pests get to liveand multiplyfor another year. Heat waves are coming earlier, staying longer, and messing with fruiting cycles. Rain comes hard and fast, washing away newly planted seeds before they have a chance to take root. Our staple crops havent been able to keep up, let alone the luxuries we have come to think of as staples: bananas, coffee, chocolate, wine, olive oil, truffles. We either have to adapt to life without the crops that make living worthwhile, or adapt those crops to our changing climate. Plant scientists like Alvarez are working on the latter. Upping stakes and moving to a better location isnt always possible, says Alvarez. For a lot of [tomato producers], the only option is to somehow change the biology of the plants themselves. Alvarez is trying to do just that, using machine learning to come up with new crossbreeds better adapted to warming weather. He is part of a growing cohort of scientist-farmers that are drawing on innovation in robotics, chemistry, genome sequencing, genetic mining, and artificial intelligence to engineer plants for a climate changed future. On May 16, another North Carolina-based bioengineering startup called Pairwise released the worlds first CRISPR-engineered salad greens on the U.S. market, using the relatively new gene-editing technology to take the bitterness out of nutrient-dense mustard greens. They are also developing a pitless cherry and a seedless blackberry. While their goal is to make healthy fruits and vegetables easier to eat and more palatable, the technology can be used to climate proof staples as well. Agriculture scientists in Australia have used genome sequencing to identify and amplify heat-tolerant traits in chickpeas, producing a protein-rich bean that doesnt just survive, but thrives, when temperatures surpass 100F. Another research team in Edinburgh, Scotland, is working on developing a super cow through gene editing that is more resilient to heat stress and disease, for sustaining populations living in the drought-stricken countries of the future. Scientists are now seeking sales approval for Australias first genetically modified fruita bananathat has been engineered to withstand a deadly fungus threatening worldwide banana production. (The U.S. already allows the sale of GMO apples, papayas, and pink pineapples.) Alvarezs version of assisted evolution relies on a simpler strategy. Instead of using genetic modification, which targets specific genes, his team uses machine learning models to seek out desirable traitslike drought or heat tolerancein both cultivated plants and their wild cousins. Then an AI-enabled recommendation system suggests which crossbreeds might produce the best results for taste, ease of production, and resilience. Wild strawberries, for example, are much more drought and heat tolerant than the ruby behemoths available in most supermarkets today, but they are small, and easier to bruise, which makes shipping long distances harder. The AI can suggest which strains of the wild strawberries should be crossed with domesticated breeds to make a larger, tastier, and climate-adapted successor. Horticulturalists have been doing that kind of cross breeding for centuriesits how we got the domesticated strawberry in the first placebut AI eliminates the trial and error, making the process faster. Once a potential cross breed is identified, the scientists go to the greenhouse to try it out, manually fertilizing the plants, planting the resulting seeds, and then waiting to see what comes up. In addition to his strawberries, Alvarez has a couple of AI predicted crosses growing in Avalos North Carolina greenhouse: drought tolerant rice, broccoli with softer, more palatable leaves (to reduce food waste) and, of course, heat-resistant tomatoes. The hard part now is the waiting. While computers can speed up the selection process, growth is still on natures timeline. We cant make the plants flower and go through that development cycle any faster. The best thing we can do now is produce new varieties in a couple of years, says Alvarez, instead of the 7-10 years it would take for the more conventional process. Computers may be able to accelerate evolution, but its still not fast enough to save ketchup for the summer BBQ season, or tomato sauce for next winters spaghetti and meatballs. If people can hang on for the next few years, I think theres a really good chance we can build something that is much more climate resilient, says Alvarez. In the meantime we just have to hope for good rains and cool summers. Not just for securing the ketchup supply, but for the sake of all our condiments. FILE - West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice delivers his annual State of the State address in the House Chambers at the West Virginia Capitol, Jan. 11, 2023, in Charleston, W.Va. The federal government filed a lawsuit on Tuesday, May 30, against coal mines owned by the family of Justice seeking payment of unpaid penalties for previous mining law violations. (AP Photo/Chris Jackson, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) Thirteen coal companies owned by the family of West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice are being sued over unpaid penalties for previous mining law violations that the federal government says pose health and safety risks or threaten environmental harm. Justice, who was not named in the lawsuit, accused the Biden administration of retaliation. A Republican two-term governor, Justice announced in April that he is running for Democrat Joe Manchins U.S. Senate seat in 2024. He will face current U.S. Rep. Alex Mooney in the GOP primary. The lawsuit filed Tuesday says that over the past five years, the U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement cited the companies for more than 130 violations. The lawsuit says the total amount of penalties, fees, interest and administrative expenses owed by the defendants is about $7.6 million. U.S. Attorney Christopher Kavanaugh of the Western District of Virginia said the defendants were ordered more than 50 times to stop mining activities until the violations were corrected. Today, the filing of this complaint continues the process of holding defendants accountable for jeopardizing the health and safety of the public and our environment, Kavanaugh said in a statement. Among the violations, the companies failed to ensure the seismic stability of a dam, to maintain sediment-control measures, to clear rock and debris from a haul road after a rock fall, and to properly dispose of non-coal waste. Our environmental laws serve to protect communities against adverse effects of industrial activities including surface coal mining operations, Assistant U.S. Attorney General Todd Kim of the U.S. Justice Departments Environment and Natural Resources Division said in a news release. Through this suit, the Justice Department seeks to deliver accountability for defendants repeated violations of the law and to recover the penalties they owe as a result of those violations. Justice listed 112 coal, agricultural and other businesses on a financial disclosure form he filed this year with the state Ethics Commission, including seven that were placed in a blind trust in 2017. His worth peaked at $1.7 billion in recent years, but he was taken off Forbes prestigious list of billionaires in 2021. The governors companies have been perennially dogged in litigation over unpaid bills. He has tried to put distance between himself and the businesses, saying that his two adult children now run them. His son, Jay Justice, is named in the lawsuit, which lists Roanoke, Virginia, as the coal companies' principal place of business. A message left for Jay Justice in Roanoke wasnt immediately returned Wednesday Jim Justice said he didnt know details of the lawsuit but expects to be briefed by his son. During his weekly media availability Wednesday, the governor again tried to put space between himself and his companies while also pointing a finger at the Biden administration. I've announced as a Republican that I'm running for the U.S. Senate. The Biden administration is aware of the fact that with a win for the U.S. Senate and everything, we could very well flip the Senate, Justice said. There's a lot at stake right now. Later Wednesday, Justice's Senate campaign doubled-down on criticism of the lawsuit's timing. Joe Biden, Chuck Schumer, and the Democrats have seen the polls that show Jim Justice winning this race, and theyre panicking," Roman Stauffer, Justice's campaign manager, said in a statement. "So now the Biden Justice Department has decided to play politics. We will see a lot more of this as the Democrats work to help Alex Mooney because they know they can easily beat him. ___ Lavoie reported from Richmond, Virginia. FILE PHOTO: The entrance of Ecopetrol's Castilla oil rig platform is seen in Castilla La Nueva BOGOTA (Reuters) - Colombia's Cano Limon-Covenas pipeline was bombed by unknown actors, operator Cenit said in a statement on Tuesday, prolonging the suspension of pumping crude between oil fields in the country's northeast and the Caribbean coast, where the oil is exported. The attack occurred in a rural part of the Saravena municipality, located in Arauca province, and Cenit, a subsidiary of majority-state-owned oil company Ecopetrol, implemented an emergency containment plan. Colombia's military is working to secure the area, Cenit added. Cenit did not attribute the attack to any particular group. According to the military, guerrillas of the National Liberation Army (ELN) and FARC dissidents who reject a 2016 peace deal with the government operate in the area. Pumping along the pipeline has been suspended since April 14 due to other attacks. Restarting operations will depend on the military's ability to secure the area where the attacks took place while repairs continue. The Cano Limon-Covenas pipeline, which can transport up to 210,000 barrels of oil per day and runs along Colombia's northern border with Venezuela, was attacked 13 times last year, leading to fires and contamination of the surrounding area. (Reporting by Luis Jaime Acosta; Writing by Oliver Griffin; Editing by Leslie Adler) Community mourning the loss of teen killed in Warren County crash The Archbishop Carroll High School community is morning the loss of one of its students. Samantha Anders, 16, was identified as the teenager killed in a crash in Warren County Tuesday morning. Troopers were called to respond to the crash at the intersection of State Route 73 and Clarksville Road in Wayne Township around 10:45 a.m., according to a spokesperson for the Ohio State Highway Patrol. >> RELATED: Dayton teen identified as victim of deadly crash in Warren County; 1 other seriously injured A preliminary investigation revealed, Anna Irwin, 39, of Dayton, and Anders, her front-seat passenger, were heading northbound on Clarksville Road. Tsegay Woldegergis, 44, of Dallas, Texas, was driving a semi westbound on State Route 73. As Woldegergis was going through the intersection, Irwin failed to yield from the stop sign and struck Woldegergis left rear trailer tires, the spokesperson said. Anders was pronounced deceased at the scene of the crash. Irwin was transported by CareFlight to Miami Valley North Hospital with serious injuries. Anders was a 2020 Ascension School graduate and incoming senior at Archbishop Carroll High School, according to a social media post by Ascension Church in Kettering. Republican and Democratic members of Congress from Alabama submitted a draft House bill late last week that would block funding for the continued growth of U.S. Space Command's temporary headquarters in Colorado, according to documents reviewed by NBC News. Two congressional officials said the bill would prohibit the command from spending money on constructing, leasing or modernizing facilities until the secretary of the Air Force formally selects and publicly announces the location of its permanent headquarters, which the Trump administration said would be in Huntsville, Alabama. NBC News reported this month that Biden administration officials have signaled privately to Defense Department leaders and lawmakers that they are considering reversing the planned move to Alabama over concerns about the states strict anti-abortion laws. Since the Trump administration announced in January 2021 that the headquarters would be in Huntsville, there has been a series of reviews and investigations of what has become a fraught, politically contentious process. Staff Sgt. Alex Garviria and 2nd Lt. Rachel James work in the Global Strategic Warning and Space Surveillance System Center Sept. 2, 2014, at Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station, Colo. Garviria is a 721st CS senior systems controller and James is the 721s (Alamy Stock Photo) Air Force and defense officials also say that Space Command is on track to be fully operational by the end of this summer, months ahead of their last public statement, which said would not occur until the end of 2023. Last week, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall met with members of Alabama's congressional delegation to discuss the location of the permanent headquarters. Several members of the delegation were surprised when Kendall disclosed that the command is continuing to expand its facilities in Colorado. Space Command is leasing at least two buildings there, according to three defense and congressional officials. The length of the leases has not been made public. After the members objected, Kendall said the command's commander, Army Gen. James Dickinson, approved spending the money on leases and that he, as Air Force secretary, has little power to stop him. Now, the members of Congress from Alabama hope to cut off Dickinsons funding to prevent him from continuing to lease space in Colorado. Alabama lawmakers are concerned that the Biden administration and the Air Force have slowed the process with the goal of building a fully operational headquarters in Colorado and then arguing that a move would result in a pause in Space Command operations. Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (Yasin Ozturk / Anadolu Agency via Getty Images file) Rep. Doug Lamborn, a Republican who represents Colorado Springs and has Peterson Space Force Base in his district, made that argument on Twitter last week. He contended that moving the headquarters to Alabama would prevent Space Command from reaching full operational capability for four to six years. U.S. Space Command is months away from full operational capability (FOC) at Peterson Space Force Base, he wrote. We cannot afford a self-imposed delay in FOC given the threats posed by China and Russia. Air Force Secretary Kendall also informed the Alabama lawmakers at their meeting about fundamental changes being made to the3 commands headquarters requirements that could affect the decision about its final location, according to a letter released Thursday by the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, Mike Rogers, R-Ala. Kendall said the changes came from Dickinson and were not directed by the Pentagon or others in the Biden administration. Kendall added that he is conducting his own investigation into the changes in the headquarters parameters and other irregularities. He told members of Congress that he is weeks away from finishing his review but did not commit to publicly sharing the results. A spokesperson for the Air Force confirmed that Space Command has issued new requirements for its permanent headquarters. The Department of the Air Force recently received additional information from the Commander, U.S. Space Command, which will require additional analysis before a final decision can be made for the permanent location of U.S. Space Command headquarters, the spokesperson said. Rogers, meanwhile, has launched an House Armed Services Committee investigation of the headquarters location selection process. He has directed Kendall and Dickinson to provide all documents related to any change in mission or headquarters requirements for the command since President Joe Biden took office, all documents about leasing or construction of facilities for Space Command and all communications from the Biden administration about changes to the headquarters. Rogers asked that all the materials be produced by June 8. It is advisable for SPACECOM to cease and desist from any action that implicates taxpayer funds in a scheme to alter the mission or headquarters requirements of SPACECOM without civilian order of oversight, Rogers said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Isabella Dennison, an 11th-grader at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School, received an honor for her artwork in the 2023 Congressional District Art Competition for Alabama's 7th District this month. She was awarded third place for her submission, "Serenity," and it depicts a Black woman encircled by flower petals in front of Selma's Edmund Pettus Bridge. The theme for this year's competition was Reimagine Alabama. U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, D-Birmingham, announced the top artworks to come out of the competition at a virtual reception held May 17. Sewell joined participants to celebrate the 58 entries submitted by talented students from across the 7th District, which encompasses Choctaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lowndes, Marengo, Pickens, Perry, Sumter and Wilcox counties, and portions of Clarke, Jefferson, Montgomery and Tuscaloosa counties. "Serenity" by Isabella Dennison, an 11th-grader at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School in Montgomery, earned third place in the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for Alabama's 7th Congressional District. Every year, I am amazed by the incredible talent of our students here in Alabamas 7th Congressional District, and this year is no exception, Sewell said in a statement. Dennison secured third place this year after winning the competition in 2022. That year's theme was "Alabama AwesomeThe History Continues," and Dennison's winning artwork portrayed a child being lifted into the air to signify the importance of carrying on the legacy of past generations. This competition is a testament to the importance of cultivating the imagination and creativity of our young people through the arts, Sewell said in 2022. I am so proud of Isabella and all of the aspiring artists who participated. This year, the top prize went to Perri Payne, an 11th-grader at Paul W. Bryant High School in Cottondale. Her submission, titled "A Glimpse Into The Future," features a child in black and white holding a picture of Alabama's future in full color. Inside the picture are images of a space shuttle, mountains, lakes, sunny skies and greenery. Perri Payne's 'A Glimpse Into the Future' won the Congressional Art Competition for Alabama's 7th District. She's a student at Paul W. Bryant High School in Tuscaloosa. Congratulations to our first-place winner, Perri Payne, who did a wonderful job capturing our theme, Reimagine Alabama. Her piece speaks to the power of young people to change the future of our state. I am so proud of Perri and all of the talented young artists who participated, Sewell said. Payne said her artwork is a reflection on her experience in the state, from childhood to present day. I feel like this piece represents how I felt as a Black girl growing up in Alabama and how I imagined it, Payne said. "I protested it by drawing a young Black girl with Alabama in her palms to represent how Alabama is in the hands of the next generation and what we do now represents the future, she said. Part of winning the contest means Paynes artwork will be matted, framed and displayed in the U.S. Capitol in Washington for one year. She and a guardian will also receive roundtrip airfare to Washington to attend the National Congressional Art Competition Reception. Perri Payne, an 11th-grader at Paul W. Bryant High School in Cottondale, stands next a piece of art she created titled, 'Honeysuckle.' Payne won the 2023 Congressional District Art Competition for District 7 for a piece titled, 'A Glimpse Into the Future.' Olivia Williams, who teaches art at Bryant High, said she has enjoyed watching Payne grow as an artist. I am incredibly proud of Perri, Williams said. She has grown so much as an artist in the two years I have been fortunate enough to have her in my class. Her ability to create work that is meaningful, personal, and skillfully executed is beyond her years. "She has so much natural talent and its been an honor to help her find a voice in her work. I hope she understands how big of an accomplishment this is, and that she feels encouraged and supported in everything she does in her future. she said. "Southern Roots" by Onda McKnight, an eighth-grader at the Capitol School in Tuscaloosa, earned second place in the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for Alabama's 7th Congressional District. The other students who earned recognition in the contest were Capitol School eighth-grader Onda McKnight of Tuscaloosa for her piece "Southern Roots" and Hillcrest High School 11th-grader Laila Gray of Tuscaloosa for her piece "The City Through My Eyes." McKnight placed second, and Gray received an honorable mention The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 with the goal of providing an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents. Since then, over 650,000 high school students have been involved with the nationwide competition. "The City Through My Eyes" by Laila Gray, 11th grader at Hillcrest High School in Tuscaloosa, earned an honorable mention in the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for Alabama's 7th Congressional District. The annual competition is sponsored by the Congressional Institute, and it is open to all high school students (grades 9-12) enrolled in the 7th District each spring. Reach Jasmine Hollie at JHollie@gannett.com. Hadley Hitson covers the rural South for the Montgomery Advertiser and Report for America. She can be reached at hhitson@gannett.com. To support her work, subscribe to the Advertiser or donate to Report for America. This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: MPS student Isabella Dennison places in congressional art competition (Bloomberg) -- US inspectors have in recent months uncovered wide-ranging lapses at factories run by some of Indias biggest pharmaceutical firms, as the worlds top supplier of cheap medicine faces increased scrutiny after a spate of deadly manufacturing incidents. Most Read from Bloomberg Dozens of drugmakers were issued notices and warning letters by the US Food and Drug Administration, which is increasing visits to Indian factories after the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions last year. Inspectors detailed unsanitary conditions in manufacturing plants and poorly trained staff; shredded paperwork and under-investigated customer complaints; and evidence of exporting contaminated drugs to the US. The expansive lapses detailed in FDA records obtained by Bloomberg News under the Freedom of Information Act suggest that a nearly two-year hiatus in factory audits during the pandemic meant faults were missed in some Indian plants that export to the US. The South Asian nation is the largest supplier of generic drugs to the US and dozens of other countries. The $50 billion sector is under the spotlight after a number of recent scandals linked to smaller, privately-held Indian companies, including the deaths of dozens of children in Gambia and Uzbekistan from adulterated cough syrup, and supplying contaminated chemotherapy drugs to the US. Read: Cough Syrup Linked to 20 Kids Deaths Was Circulating for Months Those tragedies have prompted renewed calls by public health campaigners for more rigorous oversight and a rethinking of supply chains across the world. The Biden administration has warned about the preponderance of drug supplies from countries like India, and pushed to produce more medicine domestically. The deaths and drug recalls also come at a critical time for Prime Minister Narendra Modis government, which is selling the South Asian nation to investors as an alternative to China for high-quality manufacturing. Its like playing whack-a-mole, said Alice Wang, a London-based fund manager at Quaero Capital LLP, which for now has avoided investing in Indian pharma firms. India is still behind China in many significant ways and some investments in the high-value-precision manufacturing spaces may end up needing a reality check. The adverse audits, some details of which are being reported for the first time, have also hit company stocks and scared off some investors from the sector. The S&P BSE Healthcare Index, which tracks Indias top industry stocks, has fallen 9.6% since the start of 2022, under-performing the 7.3% gain of the benchmark S&P BSE 100 Index. Many Indian pharma companies under scrutiny by the FDA said in statements to Bloomberg News that they are addressing the agencys concerns about manufacturing practices. Indian authorities have suspended the licenses of more than a dozen unlisted drugmakers in the wake of the cough syrup deaths, and havent released public details on the process to have them reinstated. In addition, from June 1 its compulsory for cough-syrup makers to send samples to a government-approved laboratory and obtain a certificate of analysis before their products can be exported. Multiple Warnings For years, the FDA has raised flags about standards at Indian factories. In 2019, the body told Congress that India at 83% had the lowest percentage of acceptable inspection outcomes at drug manufacturing facilities across the countries it policed. China had the second lowest percentage at 90%, followed by the US at 93%, with the European Union coming in at 98%. The report didnt provide a more comprehensive breakdown. Since the start of 2022, Indian drugmakers were issued nine FDA warning letters, which may lead to a ban of new products into the US. India is tied with Mexico for the most such letters for any overseas nation in that period, according to analysis of the agencys data. Dozens of Indian pharma firms were also served Form 483s, which list potential violations. In recent months, the pace of disclosures about lapses has picked up. In February, unlisted Chennai-based Global Pharma Healthcare Pvt Ltd. recalled eye drops and ointment exported to the US. This month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention linked the products to 81 drug-resistant bacterial infections, four deaths and 14 cases of vision loss. Four people also had to have their eyeballs surgically removed because of the drops, according to the CDC. During an FDA review of the firms plant in southern India, inspectors found sterility problems and quality failures in areas where the ointment was being produced. Global Pharma Healthcare didnt respond to a request for comment. In the recall notice, the company ordered retailers and customers to stop selling and using the drops and ointment, citing reports of eye infections, blindness and a death. Read: Clusters of Eye Drop-Linked Infections Found in Four States While many of the recent medicine scandals have been traced to small producers that dont export to highly-regulated European and North American markets, FDA reports and recalls reviewed by Bloomberg News suggest problems also reach the top of Indias drug-making sector. Dinesh Thakur, the co-author of The Truth Pill: The Myth of Drug Regulation in India and a former pharma executive, said its difficult to name one large Indian generics manufacturer that hasnt been cited by the FDA in recent years. One only needs to look at the 483 and warning letters, said Thakur, who helped expose issues at Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd., which pleaded guilty to felony charges in 2013 for making and distributing adulterated drugs bound for the US. At a factory run by Lupin Ltd., one of Indias top five listed drugmakers by market value, FDA inspectors in March said in a report obtained by Bloomberg News through a FOIA request that the sites staff only investigated 48 breakdown notifications out of 1,759 between January 2019 and March 2023. The facility is in Pithampur, in central India. We have taken swift action to comprehensively address all observations and are taking comprehensive measures to ensure compliance with all regulations, a Lupin spokesperson said. The company is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance in all our manufacturing processes. Document Shredding Cipla Ltd., a storied Mumbai-based drugmaker that pioneered the sale of cheap HIV drugs across Africa, received more than 3,000 US patient complaints since 2020 for an unidentified product made at its factory in central India, the FDA found. But the agencys inspectors only discovered the complaints in February when they visited the facility, according to an audit released under FOIA and reviewed by Bloomberg News. Nine out of 10 of those were related to the products performance, the inspectors wrote, adding that staff failed to implement effective corrective actions to reduce complaints. The same Cipla plant was also cited for failing to retain original records. Inspectors observed a truck loaded with bags of scrap and documents marked for shredding. In February, the companys shares fell the most in nearly two years after Cipla notified Indian stock exchanges about eight potential violations flagged by the FDA. We have examined all data pertaining to our drug performance and have determined that the products in the market are safe and efficacious for use, a Cipla spokesperson said. In addition, following the audit we have further strengthened our processes and controls to better handle complaints and are working closely with the regulatory authorities on our recommended corrective and preventive actions. The spokesperson added that none of the scrap documents were so-called good manufacturing practice records or contained sensitive information and that an independent party is reviewing Ciplas documentation practices. The FDA inspection record doesnt clarify whether agency personnel halted shredding or simply observed the documents. Read: Just How Dangerous Are Indias Generic Drugs? Very: Ruth Pollard Significant Violations One of the most impacted firms has been Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd. the countrys largest drugmaker by revenue. In December, the FDA wrote to billionaire owner Dilip Shanghvi to summarize significant violations at Suns plant in Halol, in western India, where capsule samples failed to meet dissolution specifications. The agency placed the factory under an import alert, meaning US-destined products may be detained without inspection and are subject to heightened scrutiny. That came after auditors discovered water leaks and equipment used to manufacture drugs that werent adequately cleaned and maintained, according to the letter. One staff member running visual quality checks since 2014 had repeatedly failed to identify defects, according to an earlier audit report reviewed by Bloomberg News. After the inspection, Sun Pharma later recalled batches of injectable medroxyprogesterone acetate, a hormonal birth control, as well as testosterone cypionate injections. Sun Pharma said US supplies from the Halol site accounted for about 3% of consolidated revenue in the year through March 2022 and 14 of their products were excluded from the import alert, subject to certain conditions. Last year, the company said its committed to compliance. On a call with industry analysts at the end of January, Shanghvi said the Halol plant continues to export to other countries. But in April, Sun Pharma notified Indias stock exchanges that the FDA had asked for corrective actions in another one of its plants before exporting products to the US this one in Mohali, in northern India. The firms shares fell the most in four months after the disclosure. In a letter from the FDA to Sun Pharma, which Bloomberg News obtained through a FOIA request, the US agency listed three significant violations at the Mohali factory. The issues highlighted were inadequate investigations into unexplained drug discrepancies; a failure to document or justify deviations from laboratory control mechanisms; and the manufacturing of a drug for chronic angina through 2021 to 2022 despite failing dissolution results. Sun Pharma notified the stock exchanges that it would hire independent manufacturing auditors and temporarily halt shipments to the US. The FDA letter also gives additional information about the timeline: Sun Pharma must seek the agencys sign-off on drug batches the company plans to export for at least 12 months. We are taking all necessary steps to resolve the outstanding issues as fast as possible, said a Sun Pharma spokesperson. Beyond safety, the problems could also come with a cost to Indias drug manufacturers and disrupt supplies in the US. Analysts from Nomura Holdings Inc. estimate the affected Mohali factory alone contributes $100 million to $150 million in annual sales to Sun Pharmas US business. As US inspectors work through a pandemic-era backlog of more than 1,000 foreign drug-plant audits across the world, the latest problems are unlikely to mark Indias last. Overseas inspections were down 74% last year from 1,204 reviews in 2019. Only 245 such visits have taken place so far this year. Tushar Manudhane, a pharma analyst at Mumbai-brokerage Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd., said the pace of inspections is still much lower than it was pre-Covid. As they ramp up, he said, the risk of more adverse FDA findings will continue to rise. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. A contractor that violated his Community Controlled Sanctions (CCS) after previously being convicted of scamming Memorial Day tornado victims in 2019 is going to prison. Robert Greene, 56, of St. Paris, has his probation revoked and was sentenced to five years in prison, according to a spokesperson for the Montgomery County Prosecutors Office. >> Oakwood reveals design proposal for Five Points roundabout, sets dates to hear public input Greene was convicted on more than a dozen counts of theft in September 2022. Greene was going business as TK Home Improvement when he went into tornado-damaged seeking jobs doing repair work. He either completed only partial work or no work at all for at least 10 victims who entered into contracts with him. Victims made either down payments or full payments. Prior to his conviction, Greene spent nearly two years on the run from authorities before being arrested at a Huber Heights motel in June 2022. >> VIDEO: Kettering police asking for help identifying theft suspects Last November, Greene was sentenced to five years of CCS and was ordered to pay $300 per month as restitution. He made a payment in November but failed to do so in December. As a result, a motion to revoke his CCS and impose a prison sentence was filed in January. This defendant swindled tornadoravaged elderly and disabled victims by taking their money and then failed to do the work. Now he has failed to even make the $300 monthly restitution payments he agreed to as part of the courts original sentence. This defendant deserves to spend the next five years behind bars, Montgomery County Prosecutor Mat Heck, Jr. said. Artists perform in a yangge drama as a part of the first China Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Annual Meeting in Yulin, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 16, 2023. The first China Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Annual Meeting is held here from Feb. 16 to 20, which features an opening ceremony and a series of performances, exhibitions, and forums. (Photo by Zou Jingyi/Xinhua) China will launch over 9,800 events nationwide, including more than 6,300 offline events, to showcase the country's intangible cultural heritage, both before and after the Cultural and Natural Heritage Day, which falls on June 10 this year. The theme of this year's holiday events is bolstering the systemic protection and sustainable development of intangible cultural heritage, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism said at a press conference on Tuesday. Among the major events are activities for Chinese folk art week, celebrations of the 20th anniversary since UNESCO adopted the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, and themed visual arts exhibitions for intangible cultural heritage. A variety of intangible cultural heritage exhibitions, performances, interactive and tourism events will also be featured at local intangible cultural relic venues, public cultural institutions and scenic spots across the country, said the ministry. Updated, May 31 Shortly after a dozen gunshots erupted from a stolen red SUV on the northside of Minneapolis this month, emergency dispatchers were notified of the drive-by shooting that shattered a window at the school districts administrative headquarters. District officials promptly reported the shooting to the cops, who briefly halted their chase when they encountered a school bus dropping off students. A second police report, this one from a California-based surveillance company, had also alerted authorities to the ear-piercing pops. The incident resulted in the arrest of three teenagers, who were ultimately chased down by cops on foot and a state police helicopter in the air. Shootings and car thefts have surged in Minneapolis over the last several years and, in a press release, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian OHara said that out-of-control youth had become a danger to themselves and to anyone who happens to be around them. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Yet in some ways, the teenage arrests were an anomaly: The controversial ShotSpotter surveillance sensors that notified police to the blasts, multiple reports have found, rarely direct police to the scenes of firearm crimes. Concerns about ShotSpotter false alarms and their disproportionate effects on Black residents didnt stop the citys school district from secretly partnering with the company, an investigation by The 74 has revealed. For nearly a decade, Minneapolis Public Schools has made northside campus buildings available to bolster a massive surveillance network that peppers neighborhoods with microphones designed to detect, analyze and geolocate gunfire. Since at least 2014, the school district has agreed to host nondescript ShotSpotter sensors on the rooftops of campus buildings, according to contracts that were leaked as part of a massive cyber attack on Minneapolis Public Schools earlier this year. Six agreements, signed in 2014 and 2019, authorize the sensors to be mounted atop school buildings in an out of sight fashion. The city maintains the primary contract to station ShotSpotter sensors throughout Minneapolis; the school district simply agreed to host the devices on their property. Last year, the citys latest contract for the sensors totaled $168,000, according to GovSpend, a database that tracks government procurement. Surveillance camera footage captures three teens in a red Kia that Minneapolis police allege shot through a window at the school district headquarters. Police responded to the scene after ShotSpotter alerted officers of gunfire. (Minneapolis Police Department) Subjected to a relentless stream of mass school shootings, school districts nationwide spend billions of dollars each year on campus security, including on gun-detection hardware. Yet ShotSpotters footprint in education remains largely unknown. The locations of the gun-detection sensors in Minneapolis and urban communities nationwide have for years been intentionally hidden. In the leaked contracts, Minneapolis school officials agreed to withhold from the public information about its participation in the surveillance program. Details about the sensor locations, officials agreed, cannot be disclosed under any circumstances. In Minneapolis, campus ShotSpotter locations were uncovered during The 74s investigation into the fallout from the February cyber attack. Highly sensitive information about students and educators, as well as confidential campus security information, were published online in March after the district failed to pay the Medusa cyber gangs $1 million ransom demand. ShotSpotters efforts to thwart bloodshed from gun violence is commendable, said Teresa Nelson, the legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota. But, she said, privacy and racial disparities in ShotSpotter locations, as well as reports calling into question the sensors effectiveness, outweigh their potential benefits. And efforts to withhold the school districts ShotSpotter agreement from the public, stifle residents ability to engage in conversations about how to keep their communities safe, Nelson said. Ultimately, it adds a layer to the idea of policing in our schools that could be problematic, she said. ShotSpotter coverage of schools, she worried, could send police who are ready for an extremely dangerous confrontation to campuses for no reason due to false alarms from fireworks, backfiring cars and other loud noises. That changes the tenor of policing in that area, she said. Police have tremendous power and so the community is entitled to know how theyre using that power and how theyre using new technologies that allow them to effectively conduct general mass surveillance. The Minneapolis school district didnt respond to multiple requests for comment. The district has been criticized for not sharing more information with the public about the nature and extent of the breach its most recent statement on its website is from April 11. It declined interview requests from The 74 for a May 15 investigation about the breach of closely guarded campus security information and didnt respond to questions for a May 5 article on the leak of highly sensitive information about students and staff. In an email, Minneapolis Police Department spokesperson Garrett Parten declined to disclose the number of ShotSpotter sensors deployed across Minneapolis, adding that the company selects installation locations. The technology, he said, has been an excellent tool in aiding the quick location of shooting victims so they can receive medical attention when seconds count. In general, ShotSpotter pinpoints the location of gunfire, Parten said. This allows officers to respond directly to a location rather than doing a grid search looking for evidence. As such, officers are able to quickly locate and secure evidence that might otherwise be removed, compromised, or missed altogether. Related How Leaked School Security Maps Could Put Minneapolis Kids in Danger Thomas Chittum, the senior vice president of analytics and forensic services at ShotSpotter owner SoundThinking, said the data breach in Minneapolis is a rare occurrence but the publicly traded company is taking the incident seriously. Though the sensors are regularly placed on municipal buildings like police departments and schools, he declined to specify how many are stationed on campuses in Minneapolis or nationwide. Sensor locations are confidential, he said, to prevent vandalism, retaliation against businesses and agencies that agree to host the devices, and efforts by gunmen to get around the system. Now that these things are known publicly, we have to assess whether or not we think it poses a risk to the efficacy of the system, said Chittum, who retired last year as acting deputy director of the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. The sensors are not hard to relocate but well have to assess whether or not thats feasible and necessary. Few arrests, little evidence of gun-related crimes Researchers and civil rights groups have warned for years that the technology, which is disproportionately deployed in communities of color, could do more harm than good by routinely sending militarized police into high alert over false alarms. SoundThinking maintains that its ShotSpotter sensors are 97% accurate. The most comprehensive study on ShotSpotters efficacy, published in 2021 in the peer-reviewed Journal of Urban Health, reported dismal findings. The analysis of ShotSpotter in 68 metropolitan counties from 1999 to 2016 found the sensors had no significant impact on firearm-related homicide rates or arrest outcomes. ShotSpotter deployments have been especially contentious in Chicago, where the sensors are disproportionately installed in neighborhoods with large percentages of Black residents. In more than 31,000 incidents each year, ShotSpotter alerts send Chicago police to locations where they failed to find evidence of gun crimes, according to research by the MacArthur Justice Center at Northwestern Universitys law school. Between April 2021 and April 2022, researchers found, 90% of ShotSpotter dispatches failed to find evidence of guns. In a 2022 lawsuit, the group accused the city of relying on a surveillance tool that enables discriminatory policing without a clear public safety benefit. A separate report from the citys Office of Inspector General, published in 2021, reached similar results, concluding that the alerts rarely produced evidence of gun-related crimes, investigatory stops or recovered firearms. Yet the sensors led police to make more aggressive stops in certain neighborhoods, the office found, offering fodder for advocates who argue the devices lead to the over-policing of Black residents. In a company-funded report by Edgeworth Analytics, researchers called the MacArthur analysis misleading and concluded that, based on client reports, ShotSpotter sensors were 97% effective in detecting gunfire. Chittum said the sensor locations are selected based on historical crime data and rejected advocates concerns over racial disparities. The people that balk at the idea that you would deploy public safety infrastructure in the place where it could do the greatest good boggles my mind, he said. Of course youre going to deploy it in the place where its most likely to help the people that have had the greatest impact from gun violence. I just dont understand why you wouldnt want law enforcement to know about shootings that occur in those neighborhoods. While the City of Chicago has long been a key ShotSpotter customer and former Democratic mayor Lori Lightfoot called the tool a lifesaver, that could soon change. New progressive Mayor Brandon Johnson campaigned on a promise to end the citys $33 million ShotSpotter contract, vowing to instead invest in new resources that go after illegal guns without physically stopping and frisking Chicagoans on the street. After Johnsons election, the companys stock prices tumbled more than 25%. Related In Progressive Breakthrough, Teachers' Union Organizer Elected Mayor of Chicago After weighing the costs against their benefits, officials in several cities including San Antonio, Texas, and Charlotte, North Carolina have ended their ShotSpotter subscriptions. In San Antonio, officials spent more than $500,000 for the sensors, an expenditure that led to four arrests and seven weapons seizures in a two-year period. Similarly in Minneapolis, ShotSpotter alerts have rarely led to arrests or evidence of gun-related crimes, according to a local television news investigation. An analysis found that Minneapolis police responded to about 8,500 ShotSpotter activations from January 2020 to September 2021. About 80% of the time, police didnt locate evidence of a gun-related crime and only 32 activations less than 1% of the total led to an arrest. On one occasion, in 2012, the city temporarily disabled the sensors on New Years Eve because the system became overwhelmed by alerts from the blasts of fireworks. Still losing our young people The six Minneapolis campus ShotSpotter locations disclosed in the breach are clustered in the citys northside. Districtwide, about a third of Minneapolis students are Black. At the campuses where ShotSpotter sensors were disclosed, nearly two-thirds of students are Black. The roughly 33,000-student district operates just shy of 100 schools. Its unclear whether the devices were placed at a limited number of district locations or whether information about other campuses that serve as ShotSpotter hosts were spared in the data leak. Though police said ShotSpotter alerted them to the recent drive-by shooting along with calls from educators the leaked contracts dont outline a sensor location at the districts administrative offices. Marika Pfefferkorn (LinkedIn) While the specific locations of ShotSpotter sensors citywide havent been publicly disclosed, residents are well aware of their presence in certain neighborhoods, said Marika Pfefferkorn, a Twin Cities-based student privacy advocate and executive director of the Midwest Center for School Transformation. Yet the devices, she said, havent done enough to keep people safe. Its not preventing the shots (from being) fired, Pfefferkorn said. Were still losing our young people. In Minneapolis, homicides have surged by 166% since 2019 and the number of gunshot victims has more than doubled, according to city data. More than four-fifths of shooting victims in the city are Black, according to the data, as are 89% of suspects. Outside Minneapolis, three school districts one in Texas and two in Massachusetts have purchased ShotSpotter services, according to GovSpend. In 2021, the Newark, New Jersey, school district agreed to install the sensors on 30 school buildings in predominantly Black neighborhoods, according to a Chalkbeat investigation. Information about the agreement was removed from the school systems website after the school board received an email inquiry from the education news outlet. In a 2022 email also exposed in the Minneapolis data breach, a ShotSpotter employee declined to disclose to a school district facilities official the on-campus locations of its censors, arguing that could allow the information to fall into the wrong hands. If the location of all sensors became known to the public, the employee wrote, criminals would have the capability to disable the gunshot location and detection functionality of the system, or otherwise seriously compromise the law enforcement utility of the system. As communities nationwide debate efforts to bolster security in school buildings, parents are demanding a seat at the table, said Kenneth Trump, president of the Cleveland-based National School Safety and Security Services. Sign up for the School (in)Security newsletter. Get the most critical news and information about students' rights, safety and well-being delivered straight to your inbox. Parents expect authentic, transparent communication from school officials, he said. When schools and cities equip communities with emerging security technology, officials had better be transparent about expectations and limitations, and Im not sure thats occurring. Ultimately, its up to the City of Minneapolis to assess whether the sensors work as intended, said Nelson of the ACLUs Minnesota chapter. Without strict limitations and auditing, we can never really be certain that its not being abused, she said. There needs to be more transparency and more assurances that its not going to be abused. A convenience store owner who shot a 14-year-old boy in the back has been charged with murder, South Carolina authorities say A South Carolina convenience store owner has been charged with murder after allegedly chasing a 14-year-old boy and shooting him in the back after suspecting the boy of shoplifting, authorities said. The child, Cyrus Carmack-Belton, had gone into the store in Columbia around 8 p.m. Sunday and was confronted by the owner who accused him of shoplifting, according to Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott. He did not shoplift anything. We have no evidence that he stole anything whatsoever, the sheriff said in a news conference Monday, adding even if he had, thats not something you shoot anybody over, much less a 14-year-old. We are confident that this was done in a manner that we will now classify as a homicide. This was not an accidental shooting by any means, Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford said during the news conference. This was a very intentional shooting. And unfortunately, Cyrus Carmack-Belton lost his life. Cyrus Carmack-Belton - courtesy Carmack-Belton Family/Rep. Todd Rutherford Firearms are the leading cause of death for children in the US, surpassing car accidents in 2020, and accounting for nearly 19% of childhood deaths in 2021, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Preventions Wonder database. In no other comparable country are firearms within the top four causes of mortality among children, according to a KFF analysis. Cyrus killing spurred protests Monday as community members grieved and demanded justice outside the store. Following the peaceful protests, the convenience store was looted and vandalized, with the outside being spray-painted and the windows shattered, an incident report from the sheriffs department said. The store owner, identified as 58-year-old Rick Chow, was arrested and charged Monday with Cyrus murder, according to the sheriffs office. He was denied bond at a hearing Tuesday and his first appearance is set for June 23, court records show. CNN has attempted to reach Chows attorney, James Snell, for comment. How the shooting happened According to the sheriff, after Chow confronted Cyrus, the boy left the store and took off running, and was chased by Chow armed with a pistol and Chows son. Cyrus ran out of his shoe, fell down and got back up and continued to run, an incident report from the sheriffs department said. Rick Chow - Richland County Sheriff's Dpartment At some point, the son said that the victim had a gun and we did recover a gun that was close to his body. At that point, the father shot the young man in the back, the sheriff said. Chow reportedly saw what looked to be a firearm, pulled out his Glock 30S, and fired one shot, according to the incident report. Deputies arrived to find Cyrus lying on his back as a bystander did chest compressions. A firearm was found several feet from the victim, the report states. The child died of the single gunshot wound to his right lower back that seems to be consistent with someone who was running away from the assailants, the coroner said during the news conference. The convenience store location has had a number of shoplifting incidents in the past, including confrontations involving the owners of the store, according to Lott.B The familys attorney, state Rep. Todd Rutherford, said he was outraged by the shooting. What happened to (Cyrus) wasnt an accident, he said. Its something that the Black community has experienced for generations: being racially profiled, then shot down in the street like a dog. Words cant describe the pain I feel having known this family for decades. Rutherford added, Im asking that our community continue to wrap their arms around this family as theyve joined the club that no Black family ever wants to be a part of. The sheriffs office incident report said the shooting was not a bias motivated incident. Deputies are guarding the store In light of the vandalism and looting Monday night, Richland County deputies are now guarding the convenience store, Lott said at a news conference Tuesday. A group of people entered the store and took everything they could get their hands on, Lott said, calling it totally unnecessary. He warned that investigators were working to identify and arrest those who stole from the store. What does stealing a case of beer have to do with a 14-year-old being shot and the person responsible being charged with murder? Someone explain that. What does that have to do with stealing beer? Lott asked. Go ahead, drink that beer, and enjoy it right now, because youre going to pay for it later. CNNs Dianne Gallagher contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Convicted sex offender Isaac poses for photos in Salt Lake County on Friday. He says his prison sentence ultimately helped him, but he believes the prison system needs to improve the mental health and sex offender treatments offered to inmates. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News Isaac knows that he served time in the Utah State Prison for a reason. He understands the public expects there to be consequences for his actions. But what Isaac would like the public, including policymakers, to also recognize is that there are many inmates who want to turn their lives around. However, unless more resources and support are provided particularly for mental health counseling some inmates will fall right back into their old habits once they are released. "Ultimately, (prison) is a punishment. But if you take advantage of what's there it really can change your life. And I feel it did that for me and continues to do that for me," he said, while also noting, "If we had better mental health services in prison, and even in the county jails, what an impact that would make. And I honestly believe a lot of people wouldn't reoffend because they would actually really be addressing what's really going on up there. "There are good inmates in prison that genuinely do want to change that are trying," he continued. "And I'm like, 'Just help us. Yeah, we screwed up. Yeah, we are being punished, prison is not supposed to be a joyous experience. But for those of us who want to change, let it happen.'" Isaac, who agreed to speak about his experience if his last name was not used for this story, is a registered sex offender in Utah. He has been convicted of sexual solicitation of a child and sexual exploitation of a minor. Isaac was sent to the Utah State Prison in June of 2018, released in 2022 and terminated from his parole earlier this year. He agreed to share his story in an effort to raise awareness about what he believes is the need for more one-on-one mental health counseling for inmates and continued affordable services once they are released from prison. "When I first got (to prison), I wish that somebody would have said, 'You can go see somebody for mental health once a week, every week you're here,'" he said. "I wish that was a thing." While the prison offers individual treatment and group sessions, Isaac said extra one-on-one counseling require requests to be submitted "and that literally could take days, it could take weeks, sometimes it could take months" to fulfill. While at the Central Utah Correctional Facility in Gunnison, Isaac found the Success Through Responsibility, Integrity, Values and Effort program, which is taught by inmates, to be particularly helpful. He said during one class, he asked his fellow inmates how many would take advantage of mental health services if they had better access. "The hands shot up like firecrackers going off. I said, 'Exactly.'" He also believes the sex offender treatment offered by corrections officials could be improved. "I just felt like, are we really addressing what people's behaviors are? And I didn't feel like it did. I had to ask myself, 'What led you down this path to get from point A to point C to point F, and so on? I didn't feel like sex offender treatment did that," Isaac said. Convicted sex offender Isaac poses for photos in Salt Lake County on Friday. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News Another problem, he said, is that inmates who are closer to getting a parole hearing are given priority for classes before those who have just recently been incarcerated, meaning sex offenders can't take some classes right away. "There has to be a better way," Isaac said. "I understand we're here to be punished. But if the public had a better sense of what really goes on in prison, I would honestly believe that the public, regardless of what that person has done, wants that person to get help." No one-size-fits-all plan However, Anndrea Parrish, the programing director for the Utah Department of Corrections sex offender treatment programs, said studies have shown that giving sex offenders the opportunity to enroll in some classes closer to their parole date is more effective, as some offenders are serving long sentences. "There's a misperception that more treatment is better," she said. "You can provide too much dosage, like giving someone too much aspirin." Parrish also notes that there is not a one-size-fits-all plan for sex offender treatment. The type of treatment an inmate receives depends a lot on their "risk level," or the likelihood of that inmate committing the same crime again if released. And Parrish says the notion some hold that "sex offenders can't be rehabilitated" is not true. Approximately 1/3 of Utah's prison population are inmates who have committed sex offenses. And about 90% of them will be released one day. But over the past three years, Parrish said the recidivism rate for sex offenders has been a low 2.2%. Both Parrish and Amanda Alkema, the interim director of the Clinical Services Bureau, say the COVID-19 pandemic caused a lot of therapists to switch into the private sector. They acknowledge there is currently a shortage of mental health staffing at the prison due to several therapists leaving over the past year and the difficulty of hiring licensed clinicians. Inmates' care requests are currently prioritized based on the level of urgency of each inmate. But Alkema is optimistic that positive changes will be made when the Department of Health and Human Services takes over health care in Utah's prison system starting July 1. She says while they are working on recruitment and retention of licensed therapists by looking at ideas such as tuition reimbursement, they are also implementing new strategies to give inmates more access to mental health care, such as telehealth. A room at the new Utah Correctional Facility in Salt Lake City used for group therapy in the states sex offender treatment program. | Josh Szymanik, KSL-TV Furthermore, Parrish says it's also important for organizations outside the prison to collaborate and help with inmates' needs once they are released. "There has to be a strong network of individuals willing to support people on getting back to society," she said. "(The Utah Department of Corrections) can't be the only player. We have to get help from community partners and other social services that connect people to jobs." 'You can't make somebody change' Isaac agrees that being a convicted sex offender presents its own unique set of challenges when reentering the real world. "It's like climbing Mt. Everest without oxygen and without gear. It's like climbing 10 Mt. Everests. It's next to impossible," he said. "Finding a job or even a place to live is difficult. Your credit is crap when you get out of prison." For his current living situation, Isaac said he just had to be up front with his landlord and told him, "I just need a chance. I just need a place to live." Furthermore, now that Isaac is off parole, he doesn't have health insurance yet and can't afford to see a counselor, even though he would still like to have a professional person to talk with. "I've been off of parole since February. But I would really love to still benefit from finding a therapist to help me continue to deal with whatever I'm dealing with," he said. Two days after speaking to KSL.com, Isaac says he was fired from his job without reason. He says being told "no" multiple times and not being given a second chance "over and over" takes a toll on a person's mental health. Isaac says he understands the skepticism some people have regarding convicted sex offenders. But in order to successfully move forward, he has to block out the negative comments. He says he did the self-loathing and self-hating thing in the past, and it was "not helping." "There's not a day that goes by that I'm not reminded of, 'Oh yeah, I was in prison.' But that's not a bad thing. There have been times when I've been like, 'Isaac, you're not beating yourself up because that's not helping you move on.' It's good to have reminders that I was there because then I'm not forgetting the things I learned and forgetting why I don't want to go back there," he said. But ultimately, Isaac says sex offender treatment and mental health therapy will only work if the inmate is ready to change. "If you're going to fight it and buck the system, it's not going to work," he said. "You have to want to get help because you can't make somebody change." For Isaac, he said it took him "hitting rock bottom a few times, realizing I'm missing out on life" before he made a real effort to change. "I think I had to really start believing in myself and saying, 'Isaac, you can't keep doing this or you will be in here forever, like it's not working for you or anyone else. You continue to hurt people that you care about. And you continue to ultimately hurt yourself.' And I really had to have many come to Jesus moments with myself and say, 'Isaac, you are worth fighting for.'" Convicted sex offender Isaac poses for photos in Salt Lake County on Friday. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News In Isaac's case, he says he was bullied all of his life, in addition to having Asperger's syndrome. "Growing up, I just never had self-confidence. I always thought I was the stupid one just because people would tell me that. And they would tell me that so much that I believed it. When I was in prison I was called every name under the sun. I was spit on. I had boogers and snot wiped on me. I had people threaten me, get in my face. And I had to learn how to stand up for myself," he said. Isaac says his relationships became unhealthy because he began using his partners for sex rather than investing in them, and he soon developed a sexual addiction. "I really had to learn, 'That's not what you need to use to cope. That's not a healthy way of coping,'" he said. 'I'm grateful to prison' Isaac said he was fortunate to find a therapist while in prison who helped him, and was able to continue to see him when he was paroled. "Even though he had to be blunt with me and have hard conversations sometimes, I could tell he genuinely cared because he went out of his way, or he'd call me if I was ever struggling with something, or I could call him if I was struggling and he would walk me through it even if it was really hard and even if there was consequences for whatever it was," Issac said. He also gives props to the Adult Probation and Parole agent who was assigned to his case. Although Isaac says he can't defend everything the agency does, he feels he got lucky by getting a good case agent. "Even though he had to send me back to jail twice and send me to a halfway house, he did what he honestly thought was best for me. I may not have agreed at the time, but I will forever be in his debt because he genuinely tried to help me. Now, they're not all like that," he said. When asked whether he believes he could have gotten to where he is today without prison, Isaac said, "I believe things happen for a reason. And I believe something drastic in my life had to happen for me to get to this point. Unfortunately, prison was that thing. So in a way, I'm grateful to prison for getting me to really see what I couldn't see about myself that needed help." But Isaac would also like the public to realize that just because they read or hear a story in the news about a person being arrested, they don't always get to hear the whole story. "You don't know what happened to that person to end up at that point in their life or what they've gone through. So one, shut your trap. And two, we all have things in our closet that we probably don't want people to know or ever see. And unfortunately for someone like me, the whole world sees it," he said. "I just need to go out and be the best me I can be and prove society wrong. And if people don't like me, that's on them." An anti-gang operation launched in late January by Haitis national police force has led to the deaths of several suspected gang members, the confiscation of dozens of firearms and the arrests of more than 2,700 people, the agency announced Wednesday. Dubbed Operation Tornado, the effort was launched on Jan. 26 after 11 police officers were killed during separate gang ambushes a week apart. The killings led to angry police officers and their supporters rioting in the street, burning tires, blocking roads and shooting their guns in the air. As part of the increased focus against gangs, specialized units of the Haiti National Police have been carrying out operations almost non-stop. Those efforts, Haiti National Police Spokesman Garry Desrosiers said during a press conference Wednesday, have led to the arrests of at least 10 suspected gang members as well as the liberation of a kidnapped victim in the city of Leogane. The hostage, Desrosiers said, had been held for 22 days. During the police operation, carried out Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning, two people were arrested and a presumed kidnapper was killed, he said. The police carried out several interventions in gangs home turfs, Desrosiers said. The United States is helping the Haiti National Police train new SWAT officers in the country. The group recently showed off their skills for the head of the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Todd Robinson, during a January 2023 visit to Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The polices success, he said, is the result of assistance from the public. While members of the population have joined police officers in tracking down suspected gang members, they have also been arming themselves with machetes and publicly lynching people believed to be in gangs. In its latest report, the United Nations says that it is seeing a worrying increase in mob killings and lynchings of alleged gang members, with at least 164 documented in April. At the same time, a study by Port-au-Prince based Center for Analysis and Research in Human Rights said that as a result of citizens awakening, there was a drastic reduction in kidnappings between April 24th and May 24th. There were almost no cases of abductions reported and other manifestations of gang violence, the center said. Also, only 40 homicides were reported. There were 1,647 criminal incidents, including rapes and homicides, reported the first few months of this year, based on U.N. figures. According to the Haiti National Polices partial assessment, between Jan. 26 and May 26, police arrested 2,703 individuals were arrested; confiscated 70 firearms and 2,661 rounds of ammunition; confiscated 9 kilos of cocaine and 16 kilos of marijuana, 40 vehicles and two boats, and recuperated 27 stolen vehicles. Also seized during the time frame: 723,466 Haitian gourdes the equivalent of $5,170 and another $39,000 in U.S. currency. Among those arrested were several suspected gang members accused of arms trafficking, the hijacking of goods and other crimes. They included a tattoo artist who worked for the Village de Dieu gang and key lieutenants to several high-profile gangs including 400 Mawozo, the notorious gang behind the kidnapping of 16 Americans and one Canadian missionary in the fall of 2021. Desrosiers noted that the operations were carried out throughout the country and arrests were made in the north, the south and central departments. The will and mobilization of the police are there, he said. The interventions will continue despite all of the difficulties we have as far as logistics and equipment. We have to be clear about that.... But the police are determined and armed with courage. What could America expect from Ron DeSantis? How he has changed Florida provides clues As Gov. Ron DeSantis takes his great American comeback tour to the early primary states of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina this week in his pursuit of the Republican nomination for president, he promises audiences he will deliver results by bringing his norm-breaking approach to government in Florida to Washington, D.C. So what can America expect if DeSantis is in charge? Elected as a Trump-embracing conservative who promised to expand school choice and protect clean air and water, DeSantis morphed into an advocate of the aggressive use of state power to usher in a radical shift in education and healthcare policy, a bigger role for state government in business and personal life, new limits on local government control, and, in the process, less government transparency. READ MORE: American decline is not inevitable: DeSantis looks forward in Iowa campaign kickoff In the last four years: Disney, once considered a state treasure as a tourist magnet and economic engine, now is an enemy of the state. The LGBTQ community, which had been riding a wave of broader societal acceptance after the passage of same-sex marriage, now has members leaving Florida because they dont feel welcome anymore a decision cheered by the governors staff. The state has gone from enabling a narrow slice of the K-12 population to be eligible for school vouchers to one in which every student is eligible at a potential cost of billions of dollars. Floridas colleges and universities, where state officials had for decades maintained a hands-off approach to academics, are now prohibited from teaching materials that constitute identity politics or are rooted in Critical Race Theory. They also now must respond to increased pressure from the governors political appointees, who have been given unprecedented authority over what students and faculty members can do and say. Industries from agriculture to tourism and construction, which rely on migrant labor, now must verify the citizenship status of all employees. And abortion services, once the most liberal in the Southeast, are now banned at six weeks, before most women know theyre pregnant. And the Florida economy boomed As the governor focused on being an energetic executive to check the power of private businesses and what he saw as the woke policies of the left, Floridas economy boomed. A Trump-era cap on federal tax deductions on state income tax lured hundreds of thousands to Florida, where there is no state income tax. As the states in-migration numbers returned to levels the state hadnt seen since the 1980s, its unemployment rate became the lowest in the nation, and the state budget with a massive injection of federal funds from infrastructure and pandemic-era programs now boasts one of the highest surpluses in the country. DeSantis appealed to traditional conservatives and signed into law deep restrictions on business liability lawsuits, continued tax breaks and temporarily lowered tolls. He enjoyed a surge in Republican voter rolls, earned the support of many parents with his hard line on gender ideology, and retained his appeal with many environmentalists by approving new investments in the Everglades that have made its water quality healthier than it has been in decades. But Floridas governor has also presided over an era of steep increases in the cost of homeowners insurance. Floridians today are paying on average more than $4,231 triple what Americans pay nationwide, according to the industry-supported Insurance Information Institute. DeSantis has done it all by making national headlines on his path to a presidential campaign. Not all policy changes sailed through Less watched, however, has been how he has managed his achievements. One of the three super PACs supporting his candidacy is called Never Back Down, but on nearly a dozen high-profile issues, DeSantis was forced to back down from his original positions and settle for compromise language sought by more traditional factions of the compliant Republican Legislature. Those issues include his ban on COVID restrictions for business, the sale of real estate to certain foreign buyers, election access issues, loosening state gun restrictions, banning vaccine passports, eliminating Disneys taxing district, and imposing new rules on businesses to target illegal immigration. We proved it can be done. We chose facts over fear, education over indoctrination, law and order over rioting and disorder, the governor declared during his scripted but glitch-filled campaign rollout on a Twitter livestream last week. ...This whole business we are in is about producing results. When some of DeSantis policy results were found to be unconstitutional, or faced legal scrutiny, the governor had the Legislature revise the law to get out of a lawsuit, and in some cases had the changes apply retroactively. Those issues include the retroactive rewrite of the law authorizing the relocation of migrants to allow him to avoid transporting them into Florida first; the rewrite of the law targeting Disney to allow the taxing district to continue but under the control of the governors appointees; the rewrite of the law that allowed DeSantis to accuse 20 people of voter fraud but which was in legal jeopardy, and a retroactive exemption added to the public records law so that the governors travel records will no longer be subject to public scrutiny. Buckle up when I get in there because the status quo is not acceptable, DeSantis proclaimed last week. But achieving those goals in politically divided Washington, D.C., would be vastly different from governing in Florida. He would immediately face more friction than he did with a Republican legislative majority that is more homogeneous in its ideology than ever before, showing a willingness to support DeSantis in breaking long-held Florida traditions of refraining from interfering in academic freedoms, doctor-patient relationships and public records access. The reason that we were so successful is that we had a speaker of the House, myself, and a governor who were aligned, said Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples, at a bill signing with the governor in Southwest Florida in early May. We have the same political philosophy. We care deeply about this state and the freedoms that we enjoy as Floridians. DeSantis changed himself first DeSantis didnt begin with a big government, grievance-focused approach when he was first elected to Congress in 2012, but as he changed Florida as its governor, his political philosophy changed, too. In his 2011 polemic, Dreams of Our Founding Fathers: First Principles in the Age of Obama, DeSantis espoused traditional Republican values of small government, lower taxes, and the populist views of the Tea Party movement that swept him into Congress. He ran for governor with hard-line policies on immigration and abortion and vows to overhaul what he called a historically liberal Florida Supreme Court. Water quality focus After he was narrowly elected governor in 2018, his first actions were as an environmental centrist, taking policy positions that acknowledged climate change was occurring and promising to remove business influence on water policy. In one of his first acts, he removed Big Sugars allies on the South Florida Water Management District board and replaced them with members who supported a shift in how water is managed in Lake Okeechobee. The approach has been a game changer that has led to noticeable improvements in the quality of water flowing south into the Everglades, said Anna Upton, executive director of the Everglades Trust, a Tallahassee-based advocacy group. DeSantis has committed $3.5 billion to Everglades clean-up projects, prioritized funding to protect the Indian River Lagoon, as well as delivering $1.1 billion in local government resiliency efforts that allow communities to determine their vulnerabilities to sea level rise and inland flooding. The investment also has led to a reduction in the salinity levels in Florida Bay necessary to avoid the massive seagrass die off that has happened in the past, Upton said, and it has also resulted in improving fishing conditions. Healthcare mistrust The governors small-government approach shifted most dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially regarding healthcare and education. He used his executive authority to ban mask and vaccine mandates, business restrictions and punished local governments that countermanded his approach. DeSantis also went from banning vacation rentals, endorsing COVID vaccines for seniors and organizing vaccination events in gated communities, to questioning science and hiring a surgeon general whose outlier views about the mRNA vaccine brought condemnation from medical colleagues. Now, doctors are prohibited from providing transgender medical care to children, and healthcare providers are allowed to deny medical care for moral reasons. The governor called Dr. Anthony Fauci one of the most destructive bureaucrats in American history and public health experts generally a stridently partisan, highly ideological mess. The governors hands-off approach to the pandemic came when he recognized the political advantage of aligning himself with the anti-vax, anti-public health measures right-wing branch of his party, said Dr. Aileen Marty, a distinguished professor of infectious disease at Florida International University. After his shift, he argued that his policies were good for the economy and hand-picked experts with fringe often dangerous views to support them, she said. For example, the governors claim that masks or N95-style respirators are ineffective is flawed, she said. When masks/respirators are used appropriately, all studies show that the proper use reduces transmission, Marty explained. But studies of mask mandates have nothing to do with the proper use of masks or respirators to prevent infections, and that has led to confusion. DeSantis spells out his reasoning in his new book, The Courage to Be Free: Floridas Blueprint for Americas Revival. After reviewing the data from March to April 2020, I made the judgment that draconian measures would do major damage to the economy and society while making little to no impact on the trajectory of the disease. He has proudly compared Floridas per capita COVID mortality rates with those of New York and California, saying he protected seniors first. Florida leads the nation in deaths of people 85 and older, with 9,828 COVID-related deaths in that age group, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the state ranks 45th in the percentage of the vaccine-eligible population that has completed a two-shot or single-dose COVID-19 vaccine and had one booster. But to public health experts on the front lines of battling the COVID-19 pandemic, the governors rhetoric and policies had a measurable impact: a decline in trust of public health professionals and higher per capita loss of life. Scott Rivkees, the first Florida surgeon general appointed by DeSantis, has written several opinion articles outlining how anti-vaccine misinformation has led to an erosion of respect in the experts and an expansion of denialism the rejection of facts with potentially very harmful consequences. Marty said she believes the DeSantis policies cost peoples lives. The clearest evidence that the health policies came with a physical cost to Floridians is that in the latest ranking by the CDC of deaths per capita, Florida ranked 14th highest in the nation with 28 deaths for every 100,000 Floridians, she said. Even adjusting for the high percentage of elderly that live in Florida, the Florida pandemic performance was on the poor side of the midpoint. Increasing state control over schools The pandemic also played a role in shifting the governors education priorities. He came to office with the goals of expanding school choice and increasing teacher pay, but his agenda shifted when he and former Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran insisted Florida would keep schools open after briefly shutting them in the early months of the pandemic. The governor adopted a more combative approach to school policy after he came under withering criticism and lawsuits from some school districts and teacher unions. He withheld funding from districts for requiring vaccines and masks and, when the pandemic subsided, the governor continued to refine his aggressive approach by introducing two issues that had not previously been at the forefront of educational debates in Florida but which had come from feedback from parents: race relations and gender identity. Heavily influenced by conservative think tanks like the Claremont Institute and the Manhattan Institute, the governor began to embrace a view of education espoused by Christian fundamentalists that argue contemporary education has become indoctrinated by the woke ideologies of the left and the conservative crusade was akin to a broader religious fight between good and evil. READ MORE: How a small, conservative Michigan college is helping DeSantis reshape education in Florida DeSantis energized Republicans on the right and appealed to parents across the political spectrum by calling for classroom instruction restrictions on many contemporary subjects including Black Lives Matter, queer life and the debate over slavery reparations. Education officials rejected social studies and math textbooks because of certain racial and gender-specific material. They ordered books be removed from classrooms and libraries until they are reviewed. And a new Advanced Placement course on African-American studies was rejected for what the state deemed was a lack of educational value. Now, one school district is being sued for removing dozens of books based on the recommendations of a single teacher. Teachers are more vulnerable to investigations for what they do in the classroom. Parents can sue a school district if they object to lessons related to race and sexual orientation. Diversity programs are banned from public universities and community colleges, and schools are restricted from using trans students preferred pronouns. Educators say the policies are chilling teacher behavior, academic freedom, administrative decision-making and exacerbating teacher shortages. I find myself a lot more deliberate when I am speaking about certain things, like civil rights, said Richard Judd, a Nova High School social studies teacher with 23 years of experience. A lot of the time it comes up when teaching something like slavery or a topic of race. Judd says he now uses general terms to avoid mentioning race when teaching about emotional historic events, like Bloody Sunday in 1965 in Selma, Alabama, or explaining why white segregationists wielded signs that read Race Mixing is Communism when protesting Black children being admitted to all-white schools. Other educators warn that these policies have begun to negatively shape the way students think. Were taking away [students] ability to think critically and to know there are many sides to an issue, said Mayade Ersoff, who teaches U.S. history and world history at Palmetto Middle School in Pinecrest. Theyre going to know only one side of an issue, [and] thats not reality. Bill Husfelt, the superintendent of schools in Bay County, a conservative county in the Panhandle, sees DeSantis actions as a response to what the populace wants. He is a very savvy politician. You might not agree with him, but he is not signing bills that parents are saying why did you do that, he is signing bills that parents are excited about, said Husfelt, who is also the president of the Florida Association of District Superintendents. Mixed results By August 2022, there were 6,006 advertised teacher vacancies tallied by the Florida Education Association a 174% increase from the number of vacancies in August 2020. Higher education did not escape the governors culture war battle. All tenured professors in the state college and university system must now undergo review every five years and can be let go for poor performance. Faculty committees have a diminished role in hiring, and university and college presidents can now make direct hires. Higher education institutions are banned from asking faculty and students to abide by principles of respecting diversity and equity and to include multiple viewpoints and ethnic backgrounds in their activities. When it comes to the governors initial priorities of raising teacher pay and expanding school choice, Florida has made significant progress. All Florida school-aged children regardless of family income will soon have access to private school vouchers, and the state has invested roughly $3.3 billion into teacher raises. The biggest and most positive thing has been the increase in teacher salaries said Husfelt. But the state still lags behind. A 2022 report from the National Education Association found that Florida ranks 16th with average starting teacher salaries of just over $44,000 a year. The average Florida public school teacher still only makes about $51,000 placing Florida 48th in teacher compensation nationwide. Student performance scores are also mixed. Florida fourth graders are doing well but that progress collapses when it comes to eighth grade, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). In the last three cycles 2017, 2019 and 2022 Florida ranked sixth, fourth and third among states in fourth-grade math. In those same years, Florida eighth-graders ranked 33rd, 34th and tied for 31st. Rising insurance rates Floridas property insurance crisis may be the one area where DeSantis has avoided headlines associated with his policies. He is not the first governor to preside over a property insurance crisis, but he is the first to largely cede dealing with the crisis to the Legislature. Since Hurricane Andrew upended the insurance market in 1992, the industry has seen booms and busts, most recently in 2006, just before then-Gov. Charlie Crist took office. But DeSantis response was far different than Crists. Crist took an active role during multiple legislative sessions on property insurance in 2007, personally bargaining with legislative leaders to focus on driving down the cost of premiums and, by expanding state-backed Citizens Property Insurance Corporation to make it competitive with private insurers and capping Citizens rate increases. Rates overall went down the next two years. By contrast, DeSantis signed into law measures allowing Citizens to impose higher rate increases than before, giving $3 billion in taxpayer dollars to help struggling insurers, and limiting lawsuits against insurance companies. For more than 100 years, Florida law allowed homeowners to have their attorneys fees paid when suing an insurer in an effort to level the playing field between the insurance company and the policyholder. But lawmakers removed that provision last year at the request of the insurance industry. When state regulators demanded data from insurers about their litigation this year, 71% of companies submitted no data. Despite the change in law, property insurance rates continue to rise. Less transparency Since DeSantis took office, the number of exemptions to the states public records law has expanded, and the interpretation of what is a public record has shifted. He has signed into law exemptions on public records on public officials, including his current and past travel, and he has enacted exemptions about candidates for state college and university presidencies allowing him to handpick favorites with little scrutiny. During the pandemic, agencies cherry-picked what data would be released. His top aide in charge of the migrant flights to Marthas Vineyard used an email alias to communicate with operatives. And, reporters have found, DeSantis office routinely delays access to records by holding them for long periods of time. They know they have not just a statutory duty but a constitutional duty to provide access to those records in a reasonable period of time, yet they sit on them, said Barbara Petersen, director of the Florida Center for Government Accountability, a records watchdog group that has sued the governor for the migrant flight and university records. I worry that if if hes doing this here now, what would he do once hes president? If he doesnt want us to know who he is meeting with as governor, whats to stop him from trying to do the same if he were president? Herald/Times Tallahassee Bureau reporters Ana Ceballos and Lawrence Mower and Miami Herald reporter Sommer Brugal contributed to this report. Mary Ellen Klas can be reached at meklas@miamiherald.com and @MaryEllenKlas Court: No lawsuit immunity for Michigan official who had rifle during online meeting FILE - In this image from a Zoom meeting provided by the Grand Traverse, Mich., County Board of Commissioners, Grand Traverse County Commissioner Ron Clous holds a rifle at his home during a county commissioners meeting, Jan. 20, 2021, in Michigan. A lawsuit can go forward against Clous, a Michigan official who flashed a rifle during a public meeting over video conference, a federal appeals court said Wednesday, May 31, 2023. (Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners via AP, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) DETROIT (AP) A lawsuit can go forward against a Michigan official who flashed a rifle during a public meeting over video conference, a federal appeals court said Wednesday. Patricia MacIntosh is suing Ron Clous, alleging he tried to silence her right to free speech when he displayed the rifle during a 2021 meeting of Grand Traverse County commissioners. Clous has no governmental immunity at this stage of the litigation, the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said in a 2-1 opinion. Virtually smirking and displaying a high-powered rifle at someone during a tension-filled public meeting is pregnant with dangerous meaning, said judges Jane Stranch and Stephanie Dawkins Davis. The incident occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic when the county board met over video conference. During the public comment period, MacIntosh urged commissioners to make a statement opposing anti-government militia groups, a few weeks after the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. That's when Clous, a commissioner who was participating from home, left the screen and returned with a rifle. In response to the lawsuit, an attorney for Clous argued that displaying the rifle was his own expressive conduct protected by the Constitution. But the appeals court said it could be considered an adverse action. Clous didn't seek reelection in 2022 and is no longer a county commissioner. In a dissent, Judge Jeffrey Sutton said no legal precedent fits to keep MacIntosh's free speech retaliation lawsuit alive. Think of what happened, he said. A side view of Commissioner Clouss lawfully possessed rifle. In that officials own home. For a few seconds. During a virtual Board of Commissioners meeting. With everyone participating from the safety of their own homes. ___ Follow Ed White at http://twitter.com/edwritez The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sign at the entrance of their offices in Atlanta. (Ron Harris / Associated Press) A coronavirus outbreak struck a recent CDC epidemiology conference, infecting at least 181 attendees, officials said. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's four-day Epidemic Intelligence Service Conference was held at an Atlanta hotel in late April, hosting 1,800 people in person. Of 1,443 attendees who responded to a post-event survey, 13% said they later tested positive for the coronavirus, according to findings released Friday. Among those who were infected, slightly more than half said they were unaware of any prior bouts with the virus. CDC guidance in effect during the conference, based on local COVID-19 conditions in the Atlanta area, said people could choose to wear masks if they wished, but stopped short of recommending the practice for everyone. Nearly three-quarters of survey respondents said they did not wear a face covering during the conference. Health officials have routinely said mask use reduces the risk of infection, particularly in crowded indoor settings where air circulation might be poor. The survey data showed a greater chance of infection the longer a person attended the conference, which was held April 24 to 27. "Specifically, respondents who tested positive reported attending the conference on average for all four days, and the risk of infection was 70% greater among those who attended for three or more days versus those who attended for two or fewer days," the CDC said in a statement. No one was hospitalized as a result of the infections, according to survey data. Virtually all survey respondents said they had received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, and about 1 in 4 said they received antiviral drugs to help treat the infection. "Again, the findings of this rapid assessment support previous data that demonstrate that COVID-19 vaccines, antiviral treatments and immunity from previous infection continue to provide people with protection against serious illness," the CDC statement continued. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Mona Lisa is being recreated by AI Critics are speaking out against an AI-generated expansion of Leonardo da Vincis Mona Lisa painting, among others, which fills the gaps previously left to the imagination. An image of the recreated painting shows an expansive background to the original painting that shows a canvas filled with imagery of Mona Lisas backdrop. 1. Ever wonder what the rest of the Mona Lisa looks like? Got @Adobe Firefly to help fill out the background for me with the power of AI Here's what the backgrounds of the most famous paintings in the world look like with AI: pic.twitter.com/2nkqESLrE9 Kody Young / Your AI Interpreter (@heykody) May 26, 2023 The recreation uses the Adobe Firefly app which provides a Generative Fill feature that is drastically improved from previous versions and replaces the so-called clutter in images, with ones that are more pleasing to the viewer or creator. It is now being used to improve da Vincis masterpiece and has been plastered across social media, particularly Twitter, for all to see. Read more Artificial intelligence has received backlash in recent months as it enters the creative spheres including stepping on the toes of writers and artists. AI has sparked lawsuits and won art contests, sometimes editing a former artists work without compensation or consent. All of this art is taken without the consent of these artists and the laws that exist are not really protecting them, Ron Cheng, a Yale Visual Arts Collective board member, told the Yale Daily News. I think that there are enough artists out there where there shouldnt really be a need to make AI do that. An image from the popular film Reservoir Dogs was also recreated with Generative Fillers used to fill in the space beyond the frame, and another used the feature to zoom out of the frames featuring close-ups of the film The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. Both received intense backlash, and film connoisseurs criticized the zoom-out change, saying those scenes were created deliberately and with great skill. Oh my god you picked the movie where a fundamental part of its style is that reality does not exist outside the frame, one person wrote on Twitter. Ebert wrote a whole thing about it. You literally couldnt have picked a more anti-art use case. Others used the Adobe Firefly feature to use Generative Fill on Vincent van Goghs Starry Night, Michelangelos Creation of Adam, and Sandro Botticellis The Birth of Venus. These paintings are not the first to be affected by the AI art trend, albeit, in a different way. It comes only a few months after the Mauritshuis Museum in the Netherlands was criticized for choosing an AI-generated replica of Johannes Vermeers Girl with a Pearl Earring painting in a global competition. One person commented on the museums Instagram post announcing the winner, AI prompters are not artists and their AI-generated shell images should not be praised by the artistic community. Does no one at the museum understand how AI images are created? How the AI learns to create them? ***AI images are plagiarism***, how can you knowingly participate in that? So f*cking disappointing. More from Gizmodo Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Editors note: This article is the second in a four-part series exploring how climate change may reshape life in San Luis Obispo County over the next 10 to 50 years. The series will examine the existing science and evaluate the steps we can take to reverse the impacts, both as a community and as individuals. All it takes is about 20 steps from John Okerbloms backdoor to reach the cliff that plunges 40 feet to the Pacific Ocean. From his kitchen table in Shell Beach, you can hear the waves crash against the rocky shoreline and gaze at the horizon from behind large windows. Its a stunning view. But its crumbling. Okerbloms home is one of several in the Pismo Beach area that rests on the edge of a cliff without a seawall to protect it from the unrelenting surf. From a birds eye view, his home looks like the gap from a missing tooth in a childs smile an unprotected pocket surrounded by an armored shoreline. Okerblom, 70, knew his cliff was eroding when he built the house in 2013, but he thought he could live out his retirement in it at least. The cliff behind his home has eroded at more than five times the rate originally predicted the edge now about 13 feet closer to Okerbloms back door from where it was a decade ago. If I dont protect this lot, this lot isnt going to be here in a hundred years, he said. Because the California Coastal Commission has appealed permits from the city of Pismo Beach to build a seawall to protect his house, Okerblom said he plans to move to Washington to retire, leaving his multi-million dollar home to the next person willing to make the short-term investment. And it will most likely be just that: short-term. Oceans are rising globally because of melting ice caps and expanding seas as the planets atmosphere warms from human-caused climate change. Scientists predict seas could rise in San Luis Obispo County anywhere from half a foot to more than a foot by 2050, or up to 6.27 feet by 2100. Such sea level rise will not only dramatically speed up cliff erosion, it will also increase the risk of frequent flooding in some areas and impact natural ecosystems that have existed in equilibrium for eons. A lot of our future planning focuses on sea level rise, said Matt Downing, Pismo Beachs community development director. Cliffs are going to erode; lower areas are going to flood. We need to figure out how were going to deal with that and what our future is going to look like. Dr. John Okerblom has been losing bluff to ocean erosion at his Pismo Beach house on Shoreline Drive. He is holding grandson Vander Sincoff Nov. 23, 2022. He has installed wells to limit water flowing through the bluff but the California Coastal Commission has denied a request to build a seawall. Winter storms hint at how rising tides might impact SLO County San Luis Obispo County will likely not see as dramatic impacts from sea level rise as other areas of the United States, such as Louisiana, where water levels are expected to rise between 1.5 to 2 feet by 2050 and cause massive swaths of the state to disappear into the sea. But this year, the region got firsthand experience in the level of devastation climate change can inflict on communities. Following an intense drought that shriveled reservoirs and rivers, powerful storms fueled by atmospheric rivers poured more than two feet of rain on the county in January and March, causing reservoirs and rivers to overflow. The storm also brought high ocean tides. The tides generated waves that broke against seawalls and beachfront stairs rarely touched by the salty water, and an unusually strong wave crashed through a home in Cambria, injuring one person inside. The higher tides also pushed into creek lagoons, exacerbating the flooding caused by the influx of rainfall. The rising ocean is something coastal organizations, communities, cities and the county are working to plan for to avoid devastating infrastructure and ecosystem impacts. Weve always been addressing coastal hazards, which includes things like flooding and erosion, California Coastal Commission climate change analyst Kelsey Ducklow said. And those are the same things that are going to be exacerbated by sea level rise. The impacts of sea level rise in San Luis Obispo County go hand in hand with other climate change factors. For example, in Avila Beach, much of the downtown area is prone to flooding during big storm events while tides are high. San Luis Obispo Creek can fail to breach the sandbar into the ocean during dry periods, therefore building the lagoon up and causing water to flow back up the towns culverts and into the streets. Higher tides push the lagoon up further, leading to the greater likelihood of flooding. When a rainstorm comes while tides are high and the lagoon is full, even more flooding happens. It just needs that right combination of lack of rain and then high tides and high swells combined to push up the sandbar, said John Waddell, deputy director of San Luis Obispo County Public Works Department. So, over time, with sea level rise, I suspect its going to become more common for that area of Avila to flood. Dr. John Okerblom has been losing bluff to ocean erosion at his Pismo Beach house on Shoreline Drive seen here Nov. 23, 2022. Neighbors with existing seawalls are not losing bluff at the same rate. The California Coastal Commission has denied a request to build a seawall. Erosion quickening along SLO Countys shores San Luis Obispo Countys shoreline faces a similar predicament: A combination of drought leaves soils parched, while large storm events cause increased erosion. As the ocean rises and waves crash against Okerbloms seawall at his Shell Beach home more often, the problem worsens. Okerbloms neighbors each have seawalls to protect their homes, but those barriers are slowly being undercut by the rising ocean. Thats not an uncommon problem, Downing said. And any new seawalls are typically patchwork where there are gaps between older seawalls. The Coastal Commission has already denied construction of Okerbloms seawall. Although its expected to be up for a second hearing this year, his hopes are low and for good reason. The Coastal Commission in recent decades has hesitated to approve seawalls because of the harm they pose to the natural environment. When you have a seawall, that forms the back part of that beach and stops any kind of natural migration, the Coastal Commissions Ducklow said. If you fix that line of development, whether thats with a seawall or if its with a roadway, or any kind of development, then eventually what youre gonna see is a narrowing beach, and itll eventually get lost. Bluffs below houses at Pirates Cove show significant slumping after a winter of heavy rains and storm surge as seen here with rocks reaching the tide line on May 16, 2023. The Coastal Commission requires developers to set back new homes with enough space to allow 100 years of erosion to occur before the structure is threatened by the crumbling cliff. Okerblom thought he had that 100 years with his home, but the increased rate of sea level rise, coupled with severe storms and drought, quickened the pace of erosion. According to Coastal Commission staff reports, erosion from the ocean waves plus runoff and groundwater seepage increased the annual erosion rate from 3.36 inches per year to 15 to 18 inches per year. There are some developments, however, where the Coastal Commission will allow seawalls. Those include essential infrastructure that cannot otherwise be moved. In San Simeon, the Coastal Commission is working with the community services district to eventually relocate its wastewater treatment plant. The plant sits right on the beach, next to a seasonal stream that has formed a slight canyon from years of erosion. Although the plant is somewhat protected from waves in the near term with large rocks surrounding its base, Ducklow said the facility must be moved inland to prevent a catastrophe. The Coastal Commission has also worked with Caltrans to move highways inland, and Amtrak to protect its tracks from falling into the ocean. The overall approach is: What can we do right now to make sure these things that are clearly needed for public service; public benefits, are kept safe, while at the same time planning for the long term, Ducklow said. SLO County cities plan for rising sea levels Coastal cities in San Luis Obispo County have recently begun planning in earnest for rising sea levels, with funding help from the Coastal Commission. Morro Bay, for example, completely rewrote its 32-year-old General Plan, which the City Council adopted in 2021, with a focus on how it must adjust to sea level rise. It centers future coastal development practices around how rising seas may impact its coastal infrastructure and how things must be rebuilt, moved or changed to avoid damage and ensure its longevity. Certainly, we havent solved all of the problems yet I mean, were just now starting to say, Hey, theres a problem, said Scot Graham, Morro Bays community development director. We cant stick our head in the sand because if we do, itll be too late when we have the problem. Drafting the plan wasnt necessarily easy, Graham added, because the science around sea level rise has changed rapidly within the last several years. The most current projections show sea levels could rise in San Luis Obispo County anywhere between half a foot to 1.12 feet by 2030, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Should climate change trends continue, sea levels could rise between 1.25 feet to 6.27 feet in the county in the following decades. These numbers can be difficult to visualize: What does an ocean one foot higher look like in Morro Bay, or Pismo Beach, or Cambria? Luckily, there are maps designed to show this very thing. In a partnership with Point Blue Conservation Science, a research nonprofit organization, the United States Geological Survey created interactive maps that show where San Luis Obispo County may see increased erosion and flooding due to sea level rise. In general, the Our Coast, Our Future map shows that low-lying areas of the county will likely see more flooding, cliffs will erode and many beaches will shrink as the ocean rises. Entire homes and buildings may fall into the sea at the highest end of sea level rise predictions. With 5.7 feet of sea level rise, historical infrastructure such as the Chapman Estate in Pismo Beach could fall into the ocean, Morro Strand Beach could be reduced to a sliver hugging the high school and homes, and the Moonstone Beach boardwalk in Cambria may be claimed by the sea. And Okerbloms home might as well be gone. Ultimately, I wont be able to retire here, he said, because all the land around it is eroding away. Cyrus Carmack-Belton, 14, Killed By Convenience Store Owner Who Accused Him Of Stealing Water A convenience store owner in South Carolina has been charged with murder in the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old Black boy whom he falsely accused of shoplifting. On Sunday night, 58-year-old Rick Chow, owner of Columbias Xpress Mart Shell Station, chased and shot Cyrus Carmack-Belton in the back. According to local news station WLTX, Chow accused Carmack-Belton of stealing four water bottles. During a press conference on Monday, Sheriff Leon Lott revealed the teenager had not shoplifted anything from the store. He later described the shooting as unjustified and senseless. As he commented on Sundays tragic event, Lott told the media and members of the community, You dont do what happened last night. The interaction between Chow and Carmack-Belton began around 8 p.m. The teen and the store owner argued after Chow accused the 14-year-old of stealing water he touched. Although Carmack-Belton touched the bottles, surveillance footage showed he placed them back in the cooler. After the teen left the store, Chows son chased Carmack-Belton into a nearby apartment complex. Lott stated the teen tripped and fell before Chow shot him in the back after his son claimed the teen had a gun. The outlet reports authorities confirmed Carmack-Belton had a gun, but he didnt point it at the father and son. The Richland County coroner, Naida Rutherford, reported the gunshot wound injured the teens heart. She later took to social media to clear up any misinformation about the shooting, stating it would be ruled a homicide. OMG this is terrible! A store owner (Rick Chow) shot & killed a 14 year old (Cyrus) in Columbia, SC because he thought that he was stealing a water bottle but the cameras has proved he wasnt. Here's what the coroner has to say on this case. #SayHisName #JusticeforCyrus pic.twitter.com/YBGvLLxno2 Anthony Buchanan (@anthonyscountry) May 30, 2023 Lott was openly distraught during the press conference. The Daily Mail transcribed the transgressions he felt with Chows actions. You dont shoot somebody in the back if hes not a threat to you. Its the same standard that we do, that cops have to live by. You have to be defending someones life or your life. There has to be immediate danger to you. He emphasized the teen was running away with his back turned and wasnt pointing a gun at anyone. Even if he had shoplifted four bottles of water, its not something you shoot anyone over much less a 14-year-old. Since the shooting, the convenience store on Parklane Road has been vandalized and looted in retaliation for the murder. Community members have held multiple protests and vigils at the location, demanding justice for the teenager. HAPPENING TODAY: This is the scene today at the Shell gas station on Parklane Drive in Columbia. Richland Co. Deputies say the store was vandalized after the owner Rick Chow was charged with the murder of 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack-Belton. @wachfox pic.twitter.com/wuLJ2rwujL Sydni Edwards (@SydniSpeakstv) May 30, 2023 Protesters exclaimed their pain and anger at the situation. That king may not have mattered to them but he mattered to us, because that could have been your child, one said. Yet, others are ensuring justice: Justice will be served, starting at the bond hearing tomorrow where we request his bond be denied. Authorities arrested Chow and his son, with Chow appearing in court on Tuesday for a bond hearing. WIS-TV reported Magistrate Judge John McLeod could not set Chows bond, and a circuit court judge will do so later. Carmack-Beltons murder has drawn comparisons to the murder of Latasha Harlins. A Los Angeles convenience store owner killed her after accusing her of stealing. The teens tragic death helped spark the Los Angeles riots days after the police beating of Rodney King. A batch of imports of Russian meat products, transported by a cold-chain train, was cleared on Monday at the customs in Xi'an, the capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province. The train service not only signified a resumption of imports via the cold-chain China-Europe freight train service coded Chang'an, which was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic but also the first of the service linking Moscow and Xi'an, said Zhao Jia, of the Xi'an Free Trade Port Construction and Operation Co., Ltd. The batch of 180 tonnes of Russian meat products included beef and chicken wings. Zhao is the manager responsible for the company's cargo logistics service with Russia, and he expects a regular operation of the cold-chain service on the route. The Chang'an China-Europe freight train service can transport frozen food, fresh vegetables and fruits, candy, and aquatic products, as well as cosmetics, chemicals, and electronic products with precise temperature requirements. It used to take about 45 days for the imports from Moscow to arrive in Xi'an via marine shipping but the train service passing through the Alataw Pass in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region takes 12 to 15 days while saving the logistics cost by about 10 percent. Cytomegalovirus lies dormant in most US adults and is the leading infectious cause of birth defects, but few have heard of it Cytomegalovirus belongs to the same virus family, _Herpesviridae_, as cold sores and chickenpox. Callista Images/Image Source via Getty Images Why didnt anyone tell me about this virus? is a frequent response I hear from parents upon learning their newborn is infected with cytomegalovirus, or CMV. Although more than half of the U.S. population will be infected with CMV by the age of 40 and the disease is common worldwide, few people have ever heard of it. CMV belongs to the same virus family as cold sores and chickenpox and, like those viruses, lives in the body for life. Most children and adults experience very mild or even no symptoms with their initial infection. A healthy immune system is typically able to keep CMV under control so people dont become sick or even know the virus is living in their body. So if most people are unlikely to get sick from CMV at any age, then why is the virus so important to understand? As an infectious disease and immunology specialist, I have focused on this question for most of my two-decade career. One major reason is that CMV unlike the other viruses in its family can pass from mother to fetus during pregnancy. Congenital CMV, or cCMV, is the most common infection before birth and the leading infectious cause of birth defects. About one in every 200 infants typically 20,000 to 30,000 infants in the U.S. are born with cCMV per year, and nearly 20% of them have permanent neurodevelopmental disabilities such as hearing loss or cerebral palsy. Every year, more children are affected by cCMV than several familiar childhood conditions like Down syndrome and fetal alcohol syndrome. Compared to later stages of pregnancy, CMV infection in the first trimester carries the highest risk of stillbirth or severe effects when the immune system and organs like the brain are developing. Rates of cCMV differ significantly by race, ethnicity and other demographic factors, with Black and multiracial infants twice as likely to have cCMV compared to other groups. Black and Native American infants also have a higher risk of death from cCMV compared to white infants. Looking for CMV during pregnancy Screening for rubella, HIV and syphilis is routine for early prenatal care in the U.S. Counseling to avoid kitty litter to prevent toxoplasmosis is also common. If CMV can infect a fetus and cause birth defects, then why arent pregnant people tested and treated for this virus too? Prenatal CMV screening is not standard of care due to several limitations of the current testing approach. Some available tests can be difficult for health care providers to interpret. Testing provides information about whether the parent has CMV, but it does not sufficiently predict the risk of fetal transmission or severe symptoms. Prenatal screening for a healthy person with a normal pregnancy does not usually offer useful information. Thats because anyone can have a baby with cCMV regardless of whether they tested positive or negative for it before or earlier in pregnancy. CMV testing may be useful for pregnant people who are experiencing acute illness, such as prolonged fever and fatigue, or who have an abnormal fetal ultrasound. Even if more accurate tests were available, there are currently no medical interventions approved by the Food and Drug Administration to reduce the risk of fetal CMV infection. Biweekly antibodies against CMV seem to reduce fetal transmission when given around conception or during the first trimester, but CMV is rarely diagnosed that early in pregnancy. Most available drugs to treat CMV are unsafe to take during pregnancy. FG Trade/E+ via Getty Images Researchers are currently evaluating the drug valacyclovir as a potential treatment to prevent fetal transmission. Valacyclovir is commonly used to prevent or treat genital herpes during pregnancy. Findings from a recent clinical trial in Israel suggest that valacyclovir may reduce the risk of CMV transmission to the fetus. In general, valacyclovir does not work as well as other CMV drugs that people cannot take during pregnancy. As a result, a much higher dose is required to reduce the risk of fetal CMV infection, which may cause significant side effects for pregnant people. Although the use of valacyclovir to prevent cCMV is not standard in the U.S., and research on its effectiveness remains limited, the drug is used for this purpose in some areas of the world. Screening newborns for CMV Like pregnant people, babies are screened for many potentially serious conditions. An accurate CMV test for newborns is available, and many studies support the benefit of early CMV diagnosis. So why isnt there universal CMV screening for infants? While some birth centers provide early CMV testing, most U.S. states do not mandate newborn CMV screening. My team and I surveyed 33 hospitals in Massachusetts from late 2020 to early 2021 and found that less than half are consistently screening infants for cCMV infection. Of those, only a few have a written testing protocol. Only two hospitals performed cCMV screening on all infants admitted to the newborn nursery. Standardizing public health education and CMV screening guidelines could help reduce the incidence and burden of cCMV disease on children and their families. In July 2013, Utah became the first state to pass legislation mandating a CMV public education program and testing for infants who do not pass the newborn hearing screen. In February 2022, Minnesota became the first and remains the only state to require CMV screening of all newborns, although Massachusetts and Indiana have pending universal screening bills. So far, 17 states have enacted laws requiring cCMV education or targeted screening of newborns who meet certain criteria, and many others are considering similar options. Negative health effects from cCMV may not show for a newborn until later. Juanma Hache/Moment via Getty Images On the other hand, designing, funding and implementing a new infant screening program is complex and time-consuming, and may potentially divert resources from other equally important health initiatives. Most newborns with cCMV appear physically normal at birth and develop normally over their lifetime, leading some to question the benefits of CMV screening for those children. However, infants may have abnormalities that are not visible at birth, and there isnt a reliable way to predict whether they will have progressive health problems. Without screening all newborns for CMV, those who appear normal at birth will not be fully evaluated, considered for treatment or monitored for effects that develop later, such as hearing loss. Spreading CMV awareness, not infection Decreasing the incidence of cCMV infection is unlikely without increasing awareness. Most people have not heard of CMV or are unwaware of what they can do to reduce their chances of getting CMV during pregnancy. Many adults are repeatedly exposed to one of the major risk factors for CMV infection: a young child who regularly attends large-group child care. Infections like CMV spread easily among children in settings where group play, meals and diaper changes become daily opportunities for transmission. Children can appear quite healthy but carry CMV in their saliva and urine for weeks or even months after infection. When an unsuspecting pregnant caretaker comes into contact with those body fluids, they can become infected as well. For people who are pregnant, simple behavior changes such as kissing a child on the head instead of the lips, not sharing food or utensils, and frequent handwashing can significantly reduce the risk of getting CMV. Educating the public, policymakers and health care providers will improve the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of cCMV, so no parent suffers the thought If I had only known 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: Laura Gibson, UMass Chan Medical School. Read more: Laura Gibson is a member of the Scientific Advisory Board for the CMV Program at Moderna Therapeutics, Inc. She also receives research funding from Moderna. She is affiliated with the Massachusetts Congenital CMV Coalition. British actor Dave John starred in the original film and has written the new stage adaptation Actor Dave Johns, who starred in I, Daniel Blake says he "wants to make people angry again" with a new stage adaptation of the Ken Loach film. Johns has written a new version of the award-winning 2016 film, which highlighted poverty across the country. The actor and writer told BBC News that he was moved to write the play to keep the effects of the cost-of-living crisis on the news agenda. The show premieres in Newcastle on Wednesday, before touring the country. I, Daniel Blake follows a 59-year-old joiner who must rely on welfare after a recent heart attack leaves him unable to work. He befriends a single mother and her two children as they attempt to navigate the benefits system. The film won a Bafta and the Palme d'Or award at the Cannes Film Festival, but also attracted controversy at the time after some senior Conservative MPs who said it portrayed job centre workers unfairly. The Guardian's Mark Kermode described the film as "a battle cry for the dispossessed" in his five-star review, while Variety's Owen Gleiberman said it was "one of Loach's finest films". "While it too often sands the complications off what you sense should feel like an uncomfortably splintery issue, in its best moments, it's a quietly fearsome piece of drama," wrote the Telegraph's Robbie Collin. Updating the story The new stage adaptation of the film premieres in Newcastle on Wednesday The cast and crew of the new stage show spoke to the BBC at the Northern Stage in Newcastle during their final rehearsals before the launch of their tour across the country. "I didn't just want to put the film on stage, I wanted to update the story for 2023," Johns says. "I would like to think that this would again make people angry, because that's when you get change, when it starts to affect middle class people and working people." The team from the production were invited to Newcastle West End Food Bank to come and see how the cost-of-living crisis was affecting those who are most in need. St James' Church in Benwell, Newcastle is full, as Johns files in with the director and actors. The morning starts with an introduction from Carole Rowland, welfare manager at the food bank. "Has anyone received the 301 Universal Credit payment yet please?" she asks of the 150 people who have come for a food voucher or help with benefits, and a friendly chat. Johns says he hopes the play will "make people angry, because that's when you get change" When I, Daniel Blake was made, this charity only had one food bank in Newcastle, now they have seven across the city. "Sadly it's getting worse," says Rowland. "We worry about the people we don't see, there are people who are not quite brave enough to walk through that door." The most memorable scene in the film is when Katie, the single mum who's desperately hungry, opens a tin of beans while at the food bank and starts to eat it with her hands. The scene was shot at Newcastle West End Food Bank, using some of the volunteers. Christine Wood, who's now 74, appeared in the film and still helps out today. "It was totally off the cuff," she says, remembering how Loach decided the scene should be improvised. The front cover of the show's programme is emblazoned with the title "This Is Not Fiction" - a reference to the criticism the film received when it launched seven years ago. Johns (right) with director Loach and co-star Hayley Squires at the Cannes Film Festival in 2016 Some senior conservative MPs described the film as an unrealistic portrayal of those struggling to navigate the benefit system. James Cleverly, who is now foreign secretary, said the film was "not a documentary", adding that while the welfare system is "far from perfect", the film is a "political polemic" that is unfair on Job Centre workers. "I, Daniel Blake, is a powerful and moving film," he tweeted in 2019. "But it is a political polemic and is particularly unfair on the public sector professionals who work in Job Centre Plus, in my experience they are proactive and helpful. Completely at odds with their portrayal in the film." At St James', the cast and crew are now gathered around a large table to hear from those who have had help from the food bank. "I was really low, I got really down," Anita tells everyone. Two years ago she was donating to food bank, but after a relationship break-up and rising food and fuel costs the mum of three, who works part-time, couldn't cope. "I don't think I would have been here if it wasn't for the food bank." Mark Calvert, director of the stage show, becomes emotional hearing Anita's story. He stands up and moves away from the table. "Why are people having to go through this? It's not right, it's not right, I'm going to have to stop crying." The original I, Daniel Blake film won the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 2016 David Nellist who plays Daniel in the production, takes a seat next to Pat, one of the volunteers, as she sees those who have come in for support, a food voucher and also a laugh. "My passion for being part of telling the story and shining a light on this, is more than for any play that I think I have done," Nellist explains. "It should make you angry, because that could be your sister, your wife it could be anybody. People are doing it right now, in Newcastle and right around the country." Calvert says: "I don't know if art can really [bring] change but even if it changes certain sections of that audience to make, to do something, to volunteer, to donate more, to help, that I think is the goal of it." Before Johns leaves, he gives Anita a big hug and invites her to come and see the production. "It will be amazing," she says. "I've never, ever been [to the theatre] before. It will be one of the things off my bucket list." I, Daniel Blake opens at the Northern Stage in Newcastle on Wednesday, before going on tour to Birmingham, Manchester, Exeter, Liverpool, Durham, Leeds, Oxford, Edinburgh, London, Northampton, Coventry and Guilford. FILE - Dr. Judea Pearl, left, father of American journalist Daniel Pearl, right, who was killed by terrorists in 2002, speaks in Miami Beach, Fla., April 15, 2007. Geivens Dextra, a violinist who is scheduled to graduate from Pittsfield High School next week, is this year's recipient of a college scholarship given in honor of former Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl, who was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan in January 2002 while investigating a story on terrorism. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) PITTSFIELD, Mass. (AP) A student who said he got goosebumps the first time he played the violin in an orchestra is this year's recipient of a college scholarship given in honor of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl, who was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan in January 2002 while investigating a story on terrorism. Geivens Dextra, who is scheduled to graduate from Pittsfield High School on Sunday, will use the $2,000 Daniel Pearl Berkshire Scholarship to study music at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The scholarship has been awarded annually since 2003 to a high school student from the Berkshire Hills region of western Massachusetts who plans to major in journalism or music, Pearls passions. Pearl's journalism career began in the region. It's really an honor to receive this scholarship for music, a subject that meant so much to Daniel Pearl," Dextra said Wednesday. Dextra's first formal introduction to music came in the second grade when his mother put him in the after-school music program, Kids 4 Harmony, he wrote in his scholarship essay. Inspired by a cousin already in the program, he took up the violin and eventually got to play with Bard College's Longys Sistema Side-By-Side Symphony Orchestra. I can vividly remember getting goosebumps when playing alongside the brass and winds for the first time, and instantly falling in love with orchestral music, he wrote. In high school, he performed in the school orchestra and the musical theater pit orchestra. He volunteered as a mentor and worked as a teaching assistant for Kids 4 Harmony, and played in several orchestras and summer programs, including the Boston University Tanglewood Institute. He also composed a piece of music for Hear Me, a documentary about gun violence and drug abuse in Berkshire County. Doing this project has opened my eyes to how music can be used to spread awareness in my community and in the spirit of Daniel Pearl, I am eager to take on more opportunities that can make a change in society through music," he wrote. Pearl, south Asia bureau chief for The Wall Street Journal, was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan in January 2002 while investigating links between Pakistani militant groups and Richard C. Reid, known as the shoe bomber. Reid had attempted to blow up a flight from Paris to Miami with explosives hidden in his shoes, a flight that was diverted to Boston. Pearl began his journalism career at the North Adams Transcript and The Berkshire Eagle in Pittsfield. The scholarship is funded by contributions from the newspapers as well as Pearls friends and former colleagues. Deadpool 3 Could Bring Back Even More X-Men Movie Heroes Image: Disney New Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem posters show off the turtle bros arsenal. Boots Rileys surreal new Amazon show Im a Virgo gets a suitably perplexing new trailer. Plus, even more maximal madness in Transformers: Rise of the Beasts footage. Spoilers now! Deadpool 3 According to insider @CanWeGetSomeToast, Deadpool 3 will see the returns of Halle Berrys Storm, Famke Janssens Jean Grey and James Marsdens Cyclops in addition to Hugh Jackmans Wolverine. Read more Birthday scoop Hugh Jackmans Wolverine wont be the only X-Man returning in #Deadpool3! Halle Berry, Famke Janssen and James Marsden will also reprise their roles as their Storm, Jean Gray, and Cyclops respectively. pic.twitter.com/GkdCIr5ANK CanWeGetSomeToast (@CanWeGetToast) May 29, 2023 Marshmallow Deadline also reports Corbin Bernsen, Kue Lawrence, Kai Cech and Max Malas will star in Marshmallow, a summer camp-set horror film from director Daniel DelPurgatorio boasting special make-up effects from Robert Kurtzman. Based on a script by Andy Greskoviak, the story follows Morgan (Lawrence), a timid and introverted 12-year-old who is thrust into a waking nightmare when a once-fabled campfire tale becomes real. As a mysterious figure descends upon the camp, Morgan and his newfound friends must embark on a treacherous journey to uncover a sinister reality buried beneath the surface. Little do they know that the truth harbors a secret that will test their resilience and unravel the very fabric of their reality. 6 Rue Morgue additionally reports Debbie Rochon, Kane Hodder and Bill Moseley will appear in 6, an upcoming horror anthology described as a sextet of separate tales with a common theme of strong female protagonists and slasher moments. Robert Eggers Nosferatu According to the Prague Reporter, filming has officially wrapped on Robert Eggers Nosferatu remake. The Flash Batman and Supergirl give chase to two separate incarnations of Ezra Millers Flash on a new poster from China. This new Chinese poster for The Flash goes hard! #TheFlashMovie pic.twitter.com/cDmAc2VEus The Flash Film News (@FlashFilmNews) May 30, 2023 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem Elsewhere, a quartet of Mutant Mayhem posters spotlight each of the TMNTs signature weapons. New posters for TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: MUTANT MAYHEM. Trailer releases tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/MkvFHi7yil DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) May 30, 2023 Transformers: Rise of the Beasts The Autobots and Maximals encourage you to do some breathing exercises before watching Rise of the Beasts in a new TV spot. Transformers: Rise of the Beasts NEW OFFICIAL TV Spot - Breathe Nina and the Hedgehogs Secret A little girl teams up with her fathers original character (a cartoon hedgehog) to thwart the embezzler that got him fired in the trailer for Nina and the Hedgehogs Secret. Nina And The Hedgehogs Secret: first trailer for Annecy title Cocaine Crabs from Outer Space Meanwhile, a police detective teams up with a pet store employee to investigate a string of mutilation murders in the trailer for Cocaine Crabs from Outer Space. Cocaine Crabs from Outer Space | Official Trailer | SRS Cinema The Walking Dead: Rick and Michonne Production has also wrapped on the first season of the new Walking Dead spinoff starring Rick and Michonne. A message from Scott, Andy, Danai, Denise, and Brian to #TWDSummit crew after their wrap on the series. Best crew in the world! pic.twitter.com/NnyOoHw8u5 TWDU Promos (@TWDUPromos) May 29, 2023 The Walking Dead: Dead City Relatedly, Comic Book has word The Walking Dead: Dead City will air at 9PM ETone hour earlier than previously reported Sunday, June 18th on AMC. From Spoiler TV has a synopsis for Once Upon a Time..., the second season finale of From. Boyd fears he may have finally run out of answers, as the residents of town prepare for the end; Tabitha clings to the belief that the children could be the key to their salvation. Im A Virgo Finally, Amazon has released a new trailer for Im A Virgo, Boots Rileys new series about a 13-foot tall man. Im A Virgo - Official Trailer | Prime Video Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, whats next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who. More from Gizmodo Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. The House Rules Committee advanced the debt ceiling bill to the floor Tuesday night, clearing a key hurdle as the legislation faces opposition from both Democrats and Republicans. The panel voted 7-6 to adopt the rule which governs debate on the legislation with Republican Reps. Chip Roy (Texas) and Ralph Norman (S.C.) joining all Democrats in opposing the rule. Adoption of the rule allows the debt limit bill to advance to the floor for debate and a vote Wednesday, just five days before the June 5 deadline. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said the U.S. could default on its debts by that day if the borrowing limit is not raised. It also marks a procedural victory for congressional leaders, who are working to rally support for the legislation ahead of Wednesdays vote. A number of conservatives and some liberal House lawmakers have announced plans to vote against the bill, upping pressure on leaders to corral enough votes for the legislation to cross the finish line Wednesday. The rule does not include any votes on amendments, according to Rules Committee Chairman Tom Cole (R-Okla.), despite dozens being submitted for consideration. All eyes were on the Rules Committee on Tuesday as it considered the debt limit bill negotiated by President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). The legislation would raise the debt ceiling for two years, bolster work requirements for federal public assistance programs and claw back billions of dollars in unspent COVID-19 funds, among other provisions. The measure, however, has drawn ire from liberals and conservatives, including two Republicans who sit on the Rules Committee: Roy and Norman. Both lawmakers railed against the legislation during a Tuesday press conference, with Roy calling on his GOP colleagues to oppose the bad bill and Norman labeling it un-American and arguing it defies conservatism. Ahead of Tuesdays high-profile vote, questions loomed about whether Roy, Norman and a third conservative Republican Rep. Thomas Massie (Ky.) would attempt to block the debt limit bill from advancing to the floor by opposing the rule. Votes in the Rules Committee typically fall along party lines, with the majority party supporting the rule and the minority party voting against it. Norman on Tuesday said if we can stop it there, I will stop it, referring to the Rules Committee, and Roy on Sunday wrote on Twitter hes going to try to stop the bill from clearing the House. During Tuesdays hearing, however, Massie said he planned to vote for the rule, virtually erasing any possibility of the bill being blocked from advancing to the floor. Massie followed through with his statement during Tuesday evenings vote when he supported the rule. He also told reporters he plans to vote for the bill when it comes to the floor Wednesday after announcing it in a closed-door GOP conference meeting minutes earlier. Its because it cuts spending, Massie told The Hill on Tuesday night when discussing his intent to support the bill. Nothing Ive ever voted on has ever cut spending thats passed thats become law; this will, he added. During Tuesdays Rules Committee hearing, Massie highlighted a provision in the debt limit bill that incentivizes Congress to pass 12 appropriations bills rather than relying on omnibus measures to fund the government. The provision threatens to cut government spending by one percent across the board if the measures are not approved by Jan. 1. There is one way in which I think this bill got better, and it is this 1 percent cut that were all agreeing to if we vote for this bill, Republicans and Democrat, come Jan. 1. If we havent done our homework, and if the Senate hasnt done their homework, and if the president hasnt signed those bills so everybody is gonna be in this, responsible for the outcome, Massie said. Emily Brooks contributed. Updated at 9:54 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Debt deal will require some older Missourians to work to keep getting food assistance Congress is poised to expand the ranks of older Missouri residents who must work to receive food assistance as part of a bipartisan compromise to keep the United States from defaulting on its debt. The deal negotiated by Democratic President Joe Biden and Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy requires able-bodied individuals ages 50 to 54 without children at home to work or receive job training to remain eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps. More than 666,000 Missourians get help paying for groceries under the program and the work rules currently only apply to those 18 to 49. Food banks and other anti-hunger advocates warn raising the age limit will only serve to harm older middle-age adults at a time in their lives when they may start to feel the health effects of a lifetime of labor and are sometimes called to take care of both young grandchildren and aging parents. The likely changes come as a federal lawsuit alleges Missouri has wrongly denied thousands of low-income residents food assistance because of a dysfunctional call center. But the compromise legislation also exempts homeless individuals, veterans and young adults who have aged out of foster care from work requirements a potentially significant help to individuals in those groups who find themselves in precarious financial situations. Karen Siebert, an advocacy and public policy advisor at Harvesters, a food bank that serves the Kansas City region, said she is very concerned by the debt deals food assistance provisions, despite the new exemptions. She noted the measure includes no new funding for job training. I think what this assumes, foundationally, which I think is an incorrect assumption, is that the only barrier to work is motivation if youre hungry enough, you will work. Well, that is not the case, Siebert said. The deal is expected to expand the number of people receiving SNAP benefits nationwide by about 78,000, according to estimates from the Congressional Budget Office. Its not clear whether the measure will result in a net increase or decrease in SNAP enrollment in Missouri. The Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, a Washington-based left-leaning think tank, has previously estimated raising the age limit to 54 could place up to 12,000 Missouri residents at risk of losing benefits. No public estimates exist for how many Missourians may qualify for benefits under work exemptions for homeless individuals, veterans and those leaving foster care. The Missouri Department of Social Services, which administers SNAP, doesnt appear to provide exact numbers of individuals enrolled who are between 50 and 54. According to reports on the agencys website, in March 216,714 people between 18 and 49 received benefits, while 84,215 enrollees were over 60. The impact may be more limited in Kansas, because state lawmakers earlier this year voted to extend work rules for able-bodied adults without children up to age 59. Individuals are also required to work at least 30 hours a week or participate in a job training program. Siebert argued the new exemptions themselves appear to implicitly acknowledge that some individuals face real challenges to working. They know how difficult this is going to be for people, or they wouldnt exempt anyone, she said. The House is set to vote on the bill on Wednesday night. Rep. Cori Bush, a Democrat who represents St. Louis, has offered an amendment with Democratic Rep. Barbara Lee of California to strip out the SNAP changes for older adults from the legislation. Bush has said the changes will rip food from vulnerable peoples mouths. Thats great, Bush said of the Congressional Budget Office estimates that the legislation will result in more people receiving SNAP benefits. The issue though with that is it also means the group that will lose benefits disproportionately will be Black people and Black women. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a Kansas City Democrat, said that while he had committed to voting yes, he was struggling with his decision. He said it is important for the country to avoid default, but that he doesnt believe the legislation is fair to poor people. He compared the situation to the 2008 financial crisis, when Congress bailed out banks as the economy teetered on the brink of collapse because of fiscally unsound loaning decisions made by some of the countrys biggest banks. We almost took the economy of the United States down the toilet and nobody went to jail, Cleaver said. It makes no sense. But when its poor people, all of a sudden, were gonna be all over them. Were gonna test you. Some GOP lawmakers and their allies have praised the expanded work requirements by emphasizing the value of work. Rep. Ann Wagner, a St. Louis County Republican, listed work requirements as one of the reasons she liked the deal negotiated between Biden and McCarthy. To the extent that this [deal] is getting things done and doing something that I still think is both common sense and conservative is a plus for someone like myself, Wagner said Tuesday. Kevin Roberts, president of the conservative Heritage Foundation, said in a statement that the work requirements in the bill would have a modest but real impact in preserving government programs for those who truly need them. Still, some Republicans have faulted the debt deal for not tightening work rules enough. Rep. Chip Roy, an ultraconservative Texas Republican, called the requirements weak and criticized them for not applying to Medicaid participants. The number of families receiving SNAP in Missouri remains above pre-pandemic levels, but has fallen by tens of thousands since enrollment peaked in the summer of 2020. In February 2022, two SNAP applicants sued Missouri Department of Social Services Acting Director Robert Knodell, alleging the call center the agency uses to process food assistance applications is so backlogged that low-income residents are being denied benefits. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri, alleges many applicants cant complete an interview process in the required 30 days, causing them to be denied or lose existing benefits even if they meet the income qualifications. As of March 2023, the average time to process applications was 14 days meaning processing times for a significant portion of applicants extend well beyond half a month. Two additional plaintiffs joined the suit earlier this year. In April, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Baileys Office in a court filing denied many of the allegations against DSS. The document also says the two original plaintiffs have successfully enrolled in SNAP. The Missouri Department of Social Services didnt directly answer questions about the Biden-McCarthy deals potential effects on SNAP. Instead, a spokesman for the Missouri Office of Administration responded with a written statement. The State of Missouri is monitoring the situation closely and working on contingency plans to limit any impacts to the short-term to the greatest extent possible, said Chris Moreland, the spokesman for the Office of Administration. Despite past attempts by Republican state lawmakers to tighten work requirements, Missouris work requirements largely reflect federal rules. Able-bodied adults without children can only receive benefits for three months out of every three years unless they work or participate in job training at least 80 hours a month (20 hours a week). While those requirements kick in once recipients turn 18, child welfare advocates are welcoming a provision in the debt deal to exempt those leaving foster care until theyre 25. Several hundred young adults age out of foster care every year in Missouri, though its not clear how many receive SNAP. Lori Ross, founder of FosterAdopt Connect and a long-time child advocate in Kansas and Missouri, said in general young people leaving foster care have experienced multiple, complex traumas and have not had a typical upbringing. Because of that, they may not have learned some of the basic skills or have things like professional attire needed to hold a job. Getting those young people to be gainfully employed and to maintain employment is a process that requires additional time and attention, Ross said. Honestly, the exemption that theyre putting in place for that population is really a humane and hugely beneficial thing to create a little bit more cushion for those young people. Debt limit agreement clears first hurdle despite Republican anger. Heres what happens next The bipartisan agreement to raise the debt limit cleared a key hurdle on Tuesday evening despite vehement criticism from many House Republicans. The House Rules Committee voted 7-6 to advance the legislation that codifies the bipartisan agreement struck between House Speaker Kevin McCarthys team and negotiators from President Joe Bidens administration. The rule will now go to the full House floor before the agreement comes to a full House vote. The rule passed after an hours-long deliberation in the committee that included multiple amendment proposals. The vote comes as Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned that the United States will be unable to satisfy its debt obligations come 5 June. The House of Representatives is set to vote But many House Republicans raised objections, including members of the House Freedom Caucus who had previously opposed Mr McCarthys bid for speaker in January. Rep Andy Biggs (R - AZ) told The Independent that Mr McCarthys deal with the White House was a repeat of his past behaviour. When he was been in leadership for 13 years, it was not uncommon for him to be the point man to go negotiate a spending cap deal with the Democrats, he said. Many Republicans criticised the fact that the legislation keeps in place Mr Bidens student loan forgiveness, only claws back a small sliver of money meant to increase funding for the Internal Revenue Service and raises the debt limit until January 2025, after the 2024 presidential election. Rep Bob Good (R - VA) told The Independent that the bill symbolised a surrender from House Republican leadership. We have literally come together and our leadership and their leadership and agreed on a Democrat bill, Mr Good told The Independent. But many allies of Mr McCarthy also opposed the legislation. Rep Nancy Mace (R - SC), who voted for Mr McCarthy for speaker in January, announced her opposition to the bill. Washington is, was and always will be lousy at responsibly spending your tax dollars, she tweeted. That wont change unless we demand change. Rep Chip Roy (R - TX) refuted the idea that conservatives would want the United States to default on its debt obligations. The only person who would default in this town is Joe Biden unless Republicans default on the American dream by voting for this bad bill, he said at a press conference. That is why this group will oppose it, we will continue to fight it, today, tomorrow, and no matter what happens, theres going to be a reckoning about what just occurred. Mr Roy had tweeted on Monday that during the negotiations for the speakership, Republican leaders pledged that nothing would pass the Rules Committee without at least seven Republican votes and the committee would not allow for reporting out rules without unanimous Republican votes. During the negotiations, Mr Roy tried to stress his opposition and said why Republicans should oppose the bill. We're not going to reduce spending through this deal. Unless we actually stand up and reduce spending it'll be on us to choose to, he said during the hearing. But this deal isn't going to reduce spending even though everybody's going around saying it will. But some Republicans stressed that the agreement was the only one that could pass the House and Senate and end up on the presidents desk. We only control one-half of one-third of government, Rep Erin Houchin (R - IN) said. Theres no better deal to be had. On the Senate side, both Republican and Senate Republican leaders praised the agreement. Congress will vote on legislation that locks in that important progress, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R - KY) said in remarks on the Senate floor. Republicans have a tremendous opportunity to take on an existential challenge facing our economy and future generations of Americans. We have a chance to start bringing Washington Democrats reckless spending to heel. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the bill was a reasonable compromise. Of course, nobody is getting everything they want there is give on both sides but this agreement is the responsible, prudent and very necessary way forward, he said on the Senate floor. Mr Schumer said he would bring the bill up as quickly as possible for consideration before the default deadline on 5 June. Andrii Yusov, the representative of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, confirmed that the Defence Intelligence indeed helped Vladyslav Trubitsyn, a 40-year old member of the Kyiv City Council and a member of the Sluha Narody (Servant of the People) political faction, leave Ukraine, but noted that it was forced to do so. Source: Andrii Yusov in a comment to Skhemy (Schemes), a project by Radio Liberty Quote: "The letter [by the chief of Defence Intelligence ed.] was issued on request of another structure of the security and defence forces of Ukraine within the framework of interagency cooperation with this structure and in response to their official request. I cannot disclose the structure at the moment. Perhaps this information can be made public later." Details: Yusov noted in his commentary that although Trubitsyn was served with a notice of suspicion back in February 2022, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine did not disclose his name officially. Trubitsyns rights to cross the border were not restricted on 13 May, the time he crossed the border. His passport was not seized, and a mark indicating that he was only allowed to cross the border with the investigators permission was not put on it. Herewith, the judges have the right to restrict a persons right to cross Ukraines border at the investigators request. If such decisions are made and the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine is informed of these requirements, it fulfils them. In addition to this, within the criminal case, the investigators can receive and, if possible, publish information about persons crossing the border. Since such letters do not concern the activity of the Defence Intelligence, the intelligence agency cannot check the information about such persons in closed databases. Quote from Yusov: "As far as we know, Trubitsyn indeed helped other security and defence structures on a voluntary basis, but this does not in any way justify his possible fleeing from law enforcement. We hope that he will return to Ukraine quickly and voluntarily and will not distract the security and defence forces of Ukraine from their work, which would otherwise be obliged to persecute him." Background: Earlier, Skhemy discovered that Trubitsyn had allegedly gone on a four-month-long business trip with the help of a letter from Kyrylo Budanov, the head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine. On 30 May, it was revealed that Trubitsyn had left Ukraine and did not show up to the Supreme Anti-Corruption Court, so the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office requested to put him on the international wanted list. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! WASHINGTON Even his supporters acknowledge that Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, now fighting for his political survival, has proven to be one of the nation's most aggressive litigants at the Supreme Court, challenging Democrats in recent years over immigration, health care and the 2020 presidential election. But despite what might be considered a friendly audience on a court where conservatives hold a 6-3 advantage, the three-term Republican official hasn't always had an easy ride at the nation's highest court. Paxton was impeached Saturday by the Texas House of Representatives, a decision that drew support from an overwhelming majority of Republican state lawmakers. The charges, which stem from allegations that he abused his authority, will lead to a trial later this summer to determine whether he will be permanently removed from office. Allies: Donald Trump fought to save Texas ally Ken Paxton from impeachment. It didn't work. Explainer: How a $3.3M settlement against Texas AG Ken Paxton put him on path to impeachment vote Texas Solicitor General Judd Stone, who works for Paxton and represents the state before the Supreme Court, argued five cases in the 2021-2022 term, tying for the most appearances alongside U.S. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, who represents the Biden administration, according to SCOTUSblog. This term, Stone has appeared twice. Here's a look at some of the biggest Supreme Court cases Paxton has been involved with recently: Lost: Paxton vs. blue states in battle over 2020 election Claiming that a "dark cloud hangs over the 2020 presidential election," Paxton filed a lawsuit against Pennsylvania and three other battleground states over their expansion of mail-in ballots, attempting to halt certification of President Joe Biden's victory. Virtually every state in the nation took a side in the case, which the Supreme Court ultimately rejected on Dec. 11, 2020 in a brief order. Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas said they would have granted Texas' request to make its case but stressed that they "would not grant other relief." Donald Trump greets Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton as Lt. Governor Dan Patrick follows at Austin Bergstrom International Airport on Nov. 20, 2019 Won: A divisive prelude to decision to overturn Roe v. Wade Months before the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and the constitutional right to abortion it had established, the high court allowed a Texas ban on abortion after six weeks of pregnancy to stand and severely limited the ability of abortion rights group to challenge it. The court's opinion in late 2021 did not touch on broader constitutional questions about the Texas law, known as SB8, but it permitted Texas to incentivize private citizens to sue providers, nurses and anyone else who helped a person obtain an abortion in violation of the law. Largely agreeing with the state's argument, the court ruled that the clinics could not sue Paxton to halt the law. Lost: Texas brings Obamacare back for another round Paxton led 17 other conservative states in the latest effort to knock out the Affordable Care Act, specifically targeting the so-called individual mandate that requires Americans to obtain health insurance or pay a penalty. The Supreme Court ruled in 2012 that Congress was authorized to levy the penalty under its power to tax. But Texas claimed that the penalty stopped being a tax once former President Donald Trump signed a law in 2017 cutting it to zero. In a 7-2 decision in 2021, the court sidestepped the issue and instead ruled that Texas and the other states did not have standing to sue because they were not directly harmed by the law. Chief Justice of the United States John Roberts arrives before President Joe Biden delivers the State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress at the Capitol, Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023, in Washington. Won: Texas leads push to roll back protections for immigrants Paxton led conservative states in challenging President Barack Obama's effort to protect millions of immigrants in the country illegally from deportation and allow them to seek work permits. The Supreme Court deadlocked 4-4 over the plan in 2016 (Justice Antonin Scalia had died months earlier). The tie vote left intact a preliminary injunction that blocked the program after Texas and 25 other states claimed Obama lacked the authority to circumvent Congress in creating the program, which extended protection to some parents of children who were born in the United States or are legal residents. Texas Attorney General Kenneth Paxton speaks to members of the media as Texas Solicitor General Scott Keller (R) listens in front of the Supreme Court April 18, 2016. Lost: A preacher's touch in the execution chamber John Ramirez, convicted of a 2004 murder at a convenience store, sued Texas officials over a policy that prohibited his pastor from placing his hands on him and praying aloud at his execution. Texas accused Ramirez of raising the issue only to delay his sentence and said the request would be unsafe, but the Supreme Court ruled 8-1 for Ramirez last year on procedural grounds. Texas ultimately executed Ramirez in October with his pastor at his side. In this May 27, 2008 file photo, the gurney in Huntsville, Texas, where Texas' condemned are strapped down to receive a lethal dose of drugs is shown. Pending: Biden's power to choose immigrants for deportation The high court heard more than two hours of spirited oral arguments late last year in a challenge from Texas and Louisiana over a Biden administration policy of focusing enforcement on immigrants who pose a threat to national security, public safety or who recently crossed the border. The states say the policy has forced them to spend more money on law enforcement and health care and that federal law gives Biden less discretion to pick and choose targets of enforcement. The Supreme Court is expected to rule in the case in June. Migrants wait to be processed by Customs and Border Protection at gate 42 on Wednesday, May 10, 2023 in El Paso, Texas. Pending: May states regulate content on Twitter, Facebook? The Supreme Court continues to weigh appeals involving laws in Texas and Florida that ban social media giants like Facebook and Twitter from moderating content. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, signed a law in 2021 that blocked the tech firms from restricting or removing content, a response to complaints from former President Donald Trump and other conservatives that the sites stifle Republican voices. In an early loss for Paxton, a 5-4 majority last year blocked the state from enforcing its law while the case continues. The court earlier this year asked the Biden administration to submit its view on whether to grant the appeal. The US Supreme Court is seen in Washington DC on May 25, 2023. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden v. Paxton: Texas attorney general's Supreme Court record Senator Jack Walsh said the designation shows a "commitment to ensuring that every rescued pet will be cared for, loved, and protected against abuse" Humane Animal Partners Nothing is too far-fetched for animal lovers to achieve! Delaware has made the rescue dog the official state dog. Humane Animal Partners (HAP) hosted the bill signing at its Wilmington campus on Tuesday. Governor John Carney signed Senate Bill 37 into state law, making the rescue dog's state designation official, according to Humane Animal Partners. Senator Jack Walsh, a known animal lover who introduced the bill to the Delaware Senate earlier this year, voiced what the passing of this bill means to him. "Delaware animal shelters take in thousands of pets each year all of whom are waiting to find their forever home," Walsh said in a statement. "Senate Bill 37 reaffirms the General Assembly's support for animal welfare and our commitment to ensuring that every rescued pet will be cared for, loved, and protected against abuse." Humane Animal Partners Related: Formerly 'Fearful' Puppy Mill Rescue Dog Becomes 'Helper Dog' for Canines Overcoming Trauma The bill, which HAP described as a historic moment in animal welfare, garnered widespread support across the Legislative Assembly and within the state Senate, passing unanimously. The Golden Retriever was recognized as the state dog under Title 29 of the Delaware Code before the signing of Senate Bill 37. With millions of dogs in shelters around the United States, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this move is making an important public statement. By officially making rescue dogs the state dog, Delaware sends a strong message of support to rescue animals and animal welfare organizations, HAP shared in a press release. Humane Animal Partners Related: Gordon the Shiba Inu Wins the 2022 World's Cutest Rescue Dog Contest: 'He Exudes Joy' Faithful Friends Animal Society, Brandywine Valley SPCA, and First State Animal Center SPCA all attended to show their support and excitement. Walsh's co-sponsors, Representative Bryan Shupe, Representative Kim Williams, Representative Franklin Cooke, and Representative Stephanie T. Bolden, were also in attendance. "We are thrilled to see SB 37 become law and make Delaware history," HAP's Chief Executive Officer, Patrick Carroll, said. "It feels so fitting to recognize this milestone bill at Humane Animal Partners, formerly Delaware Humane Association and Delaware SPCA, where we have been serving the community and animals for 150 years." Humane Animal Partners 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. This comes as HAP formerly Delaware SPCA and Delaware Humane Association before merging last year celebrates its 150th anniversary of its "animal lifesaving work." HAP has three adoption centers around Delaware in Wilmington, Stanton/Christiana, and Rehoboth Beach. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong Tuesday called for renewed efforts in curbing telecom and online fraud. At a conference on the crackdown on such crimes, Wang emphasized the need to reinforce the protection grid against fraudulent activities. Wang said that relevant departments must enhance their capacity to deter such crimes with technological methods, step up efforts in crime prevention and the promotion of relevant knowledge, and ensure the number of such crimes and the public's financial loss are reduced to the minimum. Wang also called for improving the management of relevant industries so no room would be left for these crimes to occur. Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., over the weekend spoke out against a campaign to have the rural eastern part of his home state of deep-blue Oregon effectively secede and join more conservative Idaho. Speaking at a town hall at a local high school, Merkley said the idea of moving the Idaho-Oregon border raises important issues about Oregon's internal situation that need to be addressed but argued the project has essentially no chance of coming to fruition. "There are a whole set of barriers that would make the process very difficult," Merkley said in response to a question about the so-called Greater Idaho movement, which seeks to incorporate about 13 Oregon counties, or 63% of the state's landmass and 9% of its population, within Idaho's borders. "I would not want to see the state carved up. I love every part of it." Merkley's comments were first reported by The Observer, a local publication that serves readers in Oregon. 'GREATER IDAHO' MOVEMENT TO ABSORB RURAL OREGON COUNTIES 'BAD FOR THE COUNTRY,' TOP DEM WARNS Moving the Idaho-Oregon border would require the approval of both state legislatures as well as the U.S. Congress. Critics have argued such a scenario won't ever happen and therefore isn't worth the time and energy. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP However, a resolution is making its way through the Idaho Legislature that wouldn't move the Idaho-Oregon border but rather call for formal talks between the states' legislatures about relocating the boundary line. Earlier this year, Idaho's House of Representatives passed the bill. It's unclear if the bill will eventually pass the Idaho Senate, but the chamber is, like the state's House, dominated by Republicans who are more supportive of the idea than their Democratic colleagues. Proponents also note that 11 counties in eastern Oregon have voted for ballot measures to explore and consider the move. A measure in Wallowa County currently looks like it will pass in a close vote that, if finalized, would bring the total to 12 counties. According to some polling, Idahoans would welcome expanding the state boundary. In Oregon, meanwhile, polling has shown a roughly equal number of voters support and oppose the idea, with about one-fifth of the population undecided. Proponents of a "Greater Idaho" argue the movement is about maintaining more traditional values, preserving a certain way of life, and being properly represented by the state's lawmakers, who they argue impose a far-left agenda opposed by those living in more conservative eastern Oregon. 'GREATER IDAHO' MOVEMENT TO ABSORB CONSERVATIVE RURAL COUNTIES FROM LIBERAL OREGON GAINS MOMENTUM "I have lived along the Oregon border my entire life, so have many east Oregon friends. They have been quite frustrated with the liberal I-5 western Oregon corridor running their state and completely ignoring their values and needs," Idaho Rep. Judy Boyle, R, told Fox News Digital in March. "Advantages for Idaho are gaining citizens with likeminded conservative values, gaining another congressional seat, moving the Oregon 'legal' hard drugs several hundred miles away from Idaho's population center, allowing these new Idaho citizens to remain in their existing homes and generational old ranches which relieves the pressure on the Idaho housing market, and brings more businesses, jobs, and innovators into Idaho." However, some of Boyle's colleagues counter that Idaho lawmakers should be focusing on the residents of their own state, echoing Merkley's argument that the idea of a Greater Idaho is unrealistic. Others say it's dangerous to set a precedent of responding to political disagreements by separating into like-minded communities. "While there are vast political differences in our region, Greater Idaho is not the proper remedy for those differences," Idaho Senate Minority Leader Melissa Wintrow, D, recently told Fox News Digital. "Our democratic republic depends on level heads coming together to find solutions to the issues that impact our citizens. Dividing state borders to create enclaves of politically like-minded people is the opposite of a healthy America." Over the weekend, Merkley acknowledged that the Greater Idaho movement reflects a divide between western and eastern Oregon that needs to be addressed, adding that different communities live across the state and elected leaders should try to understand them. He also argued that social media and cable television news exacerbate Oregon's east-west divide, saying politics forced from both the left and right use these outlets to demonize the other. IDAHO JOINS TEXAS LAWSUIT AGAINST BIDEN'S WATERWAY PROTECTIONS RULE "They amplify divisions," said Merkley. Despite criticism of a Greater Idaho, proponents of the movement believe they've gained momentum. Former Oregon House Speaker Mark Simmons, for example, recently penned an op-ed in the Idaho Statesman, a daily newspaper, to explain why he supports a Greater Idaho, saying if they're successful they'll be "freeing rural, conservative communities from progressive blue-state law." Beyond values, supporters also point to a recent analysis by the Claremont Institute that found the state-line shift could benefit Idaho economically, providing an annual net benefit to Idaho's state government budget of $170 million. However, critics have argued Oregon's sparsely populated areas have high rates of Medicaid enrollment and could be an added expense to Idaho taxpayers. OREGON GOV. TINA KOTEK BEGINS TALKS WITH LAWMAKERS TO END 3-WEEK-OLD REPUBLICAN-LED BOYCOTT A "Greater Idaho" would be as big as Montana and twice as populous, with the new land increasing the state's population by about 21%. Merkley's comments come as several state Republican senators in Oregon, which is overwhelmingly run by Democrats, are protesting what they characterize as a radically far-left agenda being pushed through the legislature by walking out and preventing the Senate from having the two-thirds majority quorum needed before it can pass legislation. The walkout, which began earlier this month, is meant to block certain Democrat-backed legislation. According to The Observer, Merkley suggested preventing future walkouts by changing the Oregon Constitution so that a two-thirds majority isn't always required before the House or Senate could pass legislation. He proposed that after 10 sessions of either chamber being canceled due to unexcused absences by legislators, the quorum needed to transact business would be a simple majority rather than a two-thirds majority. Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin says he will vote with Republicans to overturn Biden's student-debt relief plans, saying it 'forces hard-working taxpayers who already paid off their loans' to 'shoulder the cost' Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia. AP Photo/Amanda Andrade-Rhoades Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin said he supports the GOP-led bill to overturn student-debt relief. The Senate is expected to take a final vote on the legislation on Thursday. The House passed the bill last week with bipartisan support. Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin will join Republicans in voting on a bill to overturn President Joe Biden's student-debt relief plan. On Wednesday, the Senate voted to advance a GOP-led bill that would overturn Biden's plan to cancel up to $20,000 in student debt for federal borrowers, along with immediately ending the payment pause. Three Democratic lawmakers Kyrsten Sinema, Jon Tester, and Manchin joined Republicans in advancing the legislation that is headed to a full Senate vote on Thursday. The House passed the bill last week, and Biden previously said that if it ends up making it to his desk, he will veto the legislation. Following the procedural vote, Manchin released a statement of support for "overturning reckless student loan plan." "Today I voted to repeal the Biden Administration's student loan cancellation proposal because we simply cannot afford to add another $400 billion to the national debt," Manchin said in the statement. "There are already more than 50 existing student loan repayment and forgiveness programs aimed at attracting individuals to vital service jobs, such as teachers, health care workers, and public servants," he continued. "This Biden proposal undermines these programs and forces hard-working taxpayers who already paid off their loans or did not go to college to shoulder the cost. Instead, we should be focusing on bipartisan student debt reforms that reduce the cost of higher education and help all Americans." The legislation was first introduced in March using the Congressional Review Act, which is a fast-track tool Congress can use to overturn final rules put in place by federal agencies. Some Democrats and advocates have previously said that given the language of the CRA statute, ending the payment pause would have a retroactive effect, meaning payments made during the pause would be reinstated. It's unclear if other Democrats will end up joining Manchin for the final vote. But some Democratic lawmakers, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, have bashed the bill and urged their colleagues to oppose it. "Republicans have tried to sell this CRA as their attempt to block President Biden from canceling up to $20,000 of student debt for working families that need it most nothing more," Warren said on the Senate floor on Wednesday. "But make no mistake: voting for this CRA isn't just a vote against the President's student debt cancellation plan. It's also a vote to force nearly 40 million hardworking Americans to immediately pay back months of student loan payments and interest and restore an estimated $20 billion of student debt to the balances of tens of thousands of public servants." And Schumer wrote on Twitter on Wednesday that "Senate Republicans talk a big game about helping working families. But their legislation to deny millions of student loan borrowers the critical relief they need shows how callous and uncaring they are." Still, Republicans are continuing to urge their colleagues to support the legislation to block student-loan forgiveness. Sen. Bill Cassidy, one of the sponsors of the bill, wrote on Twitter that "Biden's so-called student debt "forgiveness plan" doesn't actually forgive or cancel the debt. Instead, it transfers the burden from those who WILLINGLY chose to take out debt to attend college to those who chose not to go to college or already paid off their loans. It's unfair!" Read the original article on Business Insider Democratic lawmakers reintroduced a bill on Wednesday aimed at breaking down the persistent stigmas associated with mental health in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities. The legislation, first shared with NBC News, coincides with the final day of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Called the Stop Mental Health Stigma in Our Communities Act, it would instruct the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, a branch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to partner with local advocacy and behavioral health organizations to provide outreach and education strategies. Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, known collectively as AANHPI, have faced "a growing mental health crisis in recent years, including increasing deaths by suicide of AANHPI youth, said Rep. Judy Chu, D-Calif, who introduced the bill in 2016 and is among several lawmakers re-introducing it. As the only psychologist currently serving in Congress, I know how critical it is to remove the barriers attached to seeking mental health care as well as reduce the stigma and raise awareness of mental health issues." The bill which is being re-introduced in the House by Chu and Rep. Grace Napolitano, D-Calif., and in the Senate by Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii would additionally instruct the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to conduct research and collect disaggregated data on mental health among Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander youths and behavioral health providers. So far, its received support from dozens of groups, including the National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association, Asian and Pacific Islander American Health Forum, and Empowering Pacific Islander Communities. Lawmakers pointed to statistics from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration that showed these communities had the lowest rates of mental health service use across all racial groups. Among 10 to 24 year olds, Asian Pacific Islanders were the only racial group in that age bracket in which suicide was the leading cause of death from 2018 to 2020, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But seeking mental health help has historically been a contentious and taboo subject among these communities. Dr. Warren Ng, the medical director of outpatient behavioral health at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, previously told NBC News that cultural factors remain strong barriers to treatment. The concept of losing face or bringing shame to family and community, a fear thats universal across many Asian cultures, can heavily affect many Asian Americans decision to get help. And internalized racism in immigrant communities often compound issues. Theres such an acceptance that were going to be treated this way anyway, so get over it instead of being bitter, be better, Ng said. Its always a concept of weve already accepted that this is our fate, that we dont have it any better. We are not equals. Many others, particularly the children of immigrants, often feel a thrivers guilt, said Sahaj Kohli, the therapist behind the organization Brown Girl Therapy. Its almost like mental health impostor syndrome, Kohli previously said. We are convinced that our parents and our elders went through something worse, so therefore our struggles dont feel as valid. Hirono emphasized the importance of involving community groups given the vast barriers keeping the community from accessing critical mental health care. Establishing a community-informed national outreach and education strategy is critical to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health care in AANHPI communities, she said in a press release. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com More than 50 House Democrats on Wednesday helped House Speaker Kevin McCarthy advance the debt ceiling deal he reached with President Biden, moving it one step closer to a final vote Wednesday night. House GOP leaders called up a resolution outlining the terms of debate for legislation implementing the debt ceiling deal; failing to pass this "rule" would have killed the deal. It quickly became clear that the vote was going to need help from Democrats. Several conservative Republicans voted against it a rare move, as lawmakers almost always support rules put forward by their party leaders. In the end, 29 GOP lawmakers voted against it, more than enough to sink the resolution without help from Democrats. But just before the vote closed, 52 House Democrats registered as "yes" votes, and allowed the rule to pass. DEBT CEILING AGREEMENT IN PRINCIPLE REACHED BETWEEN DEMOCRATS, REPUBLICANS President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy agreed to a deal to raise the debt limit over the weekend The last-minute wave of Democrat votes saved the bill and effectively prevented House GOP dissenters from blocking the deal negotiated by McCarthy and Biden's teams. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP The resolution passed in a 241-187 vote, setting up for its likely passage later on Wednesday evening. As of early on Wednesday evening, there are more than 50 House lawmakers who have said they will vote against the bill. Most on the Republican side are members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, while progressive Democrats like Reps. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., Cori Bush, D-Mo., and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., are also opposing it. GOP TOUTS MCCARTHY-BIDEN DEAL AS CONSERVATIVE VICTORY AS SOME REPUBLICANS DEFECT Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, is among the conservatives who said they are opposing the bill and voted against the rule Support from Democrats came even after Democrat leaders warned that it was up to Republicans to deliver the votes needed to pass the rule. "The majority is responsible for ensuring the passage of the rule, but we will not allow a default to happen," House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., told reporters during a press conference. FOX NEWS POLL: MAJORITY SAYS ONLY INCREASE DEBT CEILING WITH SPENDING CUTS US House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries indicated earlier in the day that it would be up to Republicans to pass the rule before the final bill vote CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-Md., the former longtime No. 2 leader for House Democrats, said when asked about the rule vote, "That's their responsibility." The deal has sparked opposition from both parties. Many Republicans don't think the deal cuts nearly enough spending, while some progressive Democrats are angered that any spending cuts are included at all. Dermatologist Dr Scott Walter reveals whats living on our skin (TikTok/Dr Scott Walter) A dermatologist has shared a video about the eight-legged mites called Demodex that live in our pores, which viewers have found either alarming or insightful. Dr Scott Walter, who is based in Denver, Colorado, posted a clip to the social media platform TikTok, in response to a prompt that asked: What is something you found out late in life you should have known earlier but just didnt? Dr Walters first video, posted earlier this month, explained what the Demodex mites were. He began his video by describing them as eight-legged creatures living inside the pores of your face right now. The microscopic mites live in hair follicles and oil glands on the face, neck and chest, and feed on sebum and oil produced by pores. They are generally harmless, but too many can cause irritation and infection in the skin. Dr Walter has since posted two more videos about the mites after viewers were shocked and disgusted upon learning of their existence. In one video, he catches several mites that live on his own face and puts them under a microscope. The dermatologist explained that the Demodex mites live in everyones faces, adding: Some people have more than others and thats what [is] thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of rosacea. Rosacea is a skin condition that occurs when round red spots and pustules appear on the face. Other symptoms include burning and stinging sensations, permanent redness and small blood vessels in the skin becoming visible. Dr Walter continued: Dont believe me? Im going to try and catch some of my own, like a Pokemon, next week and show you under the microscope. The clip has been watched more than 10.5m times since he posted it and garnered thousands of comments from people who were thoroughly freaked out by the information about Demodex mites. My whole face itches, how to get rid of them please? one person asked. Another added: This is one of those things I wouldve been fine not knowing about. In a follow-up video, Dr Walter apologised for bringing viewers attention to the existence of Demodex mites. I am sorry I told you about Demodex, he said. Is your whole face itchy because of them? Probably not. But can you treat them? Yes. He added that the mites also lay eggs on the skin and they can hatch even after treatment. Theyre our friends, he said. Accept them. Theyre here to stay. However, concerned viewers can treat Demodex mites if they have skin conditions like rosacea or severe folliculitis, which is when hair follicles become inflamed. Dr Walter pointed to topical treatments such as metronidazole, topical ivermectin, sulfer sulfacetamide washes and permethrin, as well as oral therapies that are used in more severe cases. His most recent video showed him fulfilling his promise to catch Demodex mites living on his own face and revealing them under the microscope. He did so by placing cellophane tape across his forehead and nose before going to sleep. The following day, he placed the stripes of clear tape under the microscope, which revealed three Demodex mites that had been living in his pores. Speaking over the video, he zoomed into one of the mites and said: That right there is a Demodex mite and Im kind of freaked out that I actually have them. He zoomed in even further and showed the mite moving some of its legs, which indicated it was still alive. According to WebMd, small numbers of Demodex mites living in the skin can be beneficial as they remove dead skin cells and extra oil. People with skin conditions that cause irritation and inflammation should consult a dermatologist before beginning any treatments. Scott Morgan/Reuters Self-described law-and-order candidate Ron DeSantis held what his website termed the campaign kick-off event of Our Great American Comeback at an Iowa church that may well have been breaking a federal law on Tuesday evening. The Eternity Church in Clive is a tax-exempt organization. And, as such, it is subject to an amendment sponsored by then-U.S Senator Lyndon Johnson in 1954, which states that churches and charities are prohibited by the terms of their exemption from participating or intervening, directly or indirectly, in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for public office. Last week, DeSantis said he would welcome a bill to defund the IRS. He now appears to simply be ignoring it. Neither he nor the Eternity Church responded to a request for comment. But the churchs pastor, Jesse Newman, posted a tweet on Tuesday afternoon, noting Hillary spoke @ churches AND .Biden spoke @ churches, adding, They all use churches as venues. Of the DeSantis campaign Newman tweeted, Theyre just using our venue! So haters - be consistent! Two tax experts interviewed by The Daily Beast suggested that the church could conceivably argue that it was simply affording DeSantis an opportunity available to any candidate. And, they said, Newman can rightly say that he is as free as anyone to express his personal support for one. [The] Johnson amendment DOES NOT stop Pastors from talking politics, Newman tweeted last week. And if it did I would ignore it and preach the whole truth anyway! Our Faith MUST influence our Politics! Pastors should care more about truth than Tax Breaks! But, Johnson amendment DOES NOT stop Pastors from talking politics. And if it did I would ignore it and preach the whole truth anyway! Our Faith MUST influence our Politics! Thanks for the shoutout Steve, love ya mate! https://t.co/op525YnI33 Jesse Newman (@jessethenewman) May 26, 2023 However, Professor Philip Hackney of the University of Pittsburgh and Professor Lloyd Mayer of University of Notre Dame suggested that the IRS prohibition could kick in if a pastor is speaking in his official capacity during a campaign event held at their church. Its definitely a yellow flag, Mayer said. Nothing in the IRS code prevents Newman from expressing his opinion on his personal Twitter account regarding the same culture-war issues that DeSantis hopes will carry him into the White House. The pastor has described being woke as one of the most ungodly & unjust movements in our country! They package a new breed of racism (CRT), sexual perversion & other progressive ideologies together, into a false but alluring cause & call it Social Justice. Newman further contended, Every time a pastor says ANYTHING the woke mob disagrees with, they call it politics & demand you shut up or theyll report you to the IRS. They have no ability to back up their positions, so they demand you be silenced! With regards to gender, Newman has tweeted, Your biological maleness or femaleness is a gift from God. Its intentionally given to you by God. Its a huge part of your identity and your purpose in this life Newman outdoes even DeSantis when it comes to churches that support gay rights. In light of my last tweet, I will go so far as to say this: All rainbow affirming churches and pastors are false prophets who have exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and the ideologies they teach will lead people to hell. pic.twitter.com/Ij2b9Psz1b Jesse Newman (@jessethenewman) May 13, 2023 Meanwhile, in another tweet, Newman seemed to make reference to DeSantis Great Comeback slogan. Dont believe Americas best days are behind her! The Devil has stolen, he has killed, he has destroyed, but ITS ALL COMING BACK!!!! The pastors comments are protected by the First Amendment. But a federal court found in 2000 that free speech and political expression can reach a limit when it comes to the Johnson Amendment, which is codified as Section 501(c)(3). The case involved a 1992 newspaper advertisement that the Church at Pierce Creek of New York took out condemning then-candidate Bill Clinton for supporting abortion and homosexuality. The church argued in federal court that it had been unfairly singled out because of its conservative views. The judge affirmed the IRSs decision to remove the churchs tax-exempt status. The government has a compelling interest in maintaining the integrity of the tax system and in not subsidizing partisan political activity, and Section 501(c)(3) is the least restrictive means of accomplishing that, the course found. Florida Governor Ron Desantis throws a campaign hat down to supporters next to a large mural reading "Be Holy" as he kicks off his campaign for the 2024 Republican U.S. presidential nomination with an evening campaign rally at the evangelical Eternity church in West Des Moines, Iowa. Scott Morgan/Reuters A campaign appearance is not the same as a partisan newspaper ad. But the prohibition against participating in a political campaign would seem to apply when it comes to a campaign kick-off rally complete with a large crowd holding campaign signs reading DeSantis. When the moment of the big event arrived, Newman stepped up to a podium that had DeSantis for President affixed to the front. Newman led the assembly in prayer for the Florida governor who is striving to become president. As he stands for righteousness and as the vicious onslaughts of those who plan to do wicked come against him, Newman said, I pray [it will] have no effect on him or his family, or his campaign or his desire to stand up for the truth. The pastor seemed to be crossing a line as he described DeSantis campaign as a contest between the righteous and the wicked. God, I pray that all that the enemy means for harm, I believe youre going to use it for good. We pray this in the name of Jesus. Newman ended by saying, Could somebody say Amen? And from the crowd of people with campaign signs came a reply. Amen. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. DeSantis says hell counterpunch against Trump but aims to keep focus on policy rather than personal attacks DES MOINES, Iowa As Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis takes his first steps on the presidential campaign trail as a declared candidate, hes stepping up his counterattacks against former President Donald Trump, whos been blasting his main rival for the GOP nomination for months. Following a speech to a packed megachurch in suburban Des Moines, Iowa, where DeSantis painted plenty of contrasts with Trump without naming the former president, the Florida governor started aggressively throwing punches during an ensuing question and answer session with reporters. "So look, Im going to respond to attacks," DeSantis said as he kicked off a four-day swing through Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina, the first three states to lead off the Republican presidential nominating calendar. "Im gonna counterpunch and Im gonna fight back on it." DeSantis declared his candidacy for president one week ago in a campaign launch video first reported by Fox News. The announcement was quickly followed that evening with an extremely rocky rollout by DeSantis in an appearance on Twitter with business magnate and Twitter owner Elon Musk, where the Florida governor concurrently kicked off his 2024 campaign. WHAT RON DESANTIS SAID IN HIS FIRST CAMPAIGN TRAIL SPEECH AS A PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE DeSantis' campaign described the severe glitches as a "break the internet" moment due to intense interest in the launch. His campaign also touted that the governor hauled in a record $8.2 million in his first 24 hours as a presidential candidate. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Trump and his allies, however, argued the episode was an embarrassing flop. Among other things, the former president on his Truth Social platform put up a video of a rocket crashing and exploding with the caption "Ron! 2024." Trump, who remains the commanding front-runner in the race for the GOP presidential nomination as he makes his third straight bid for the White House, has been taking aim at DeSantis since last autumn. The former president, his political team and allies have amplified their attacks the past couple of months. As DeSantis arrived in Iowa, Trump and his allies unleashed a new barrage. The former president took to social media to tout polls indicating hes the commanding favorite to win the GOP nomination, and swiped at DeSantis over the governors leadership during the coronavirus pandemic, charging that Florida was the "third WORST State in Deaths by Covid." HERE'S HOW MUCH CAMPAIGN CASH RON DESANTIS HAULED IN - IN HIS FIRST 24 HOURS AS A PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE Trump once again argued that Florida experienced more casualties from COVID than New York state, which at the start of the pandemic was governed by now-former Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo. DeSantis, speaking with reporters, called Trumps pandemic response critiques "bizarre" and "ridiculous." "The former president is now attacking me, saying that [Andrew] Cuomo did better handling COVID than Florida did," DeSantis responded. "I can tell you this, I could count the number of Republicans in this country on my hands that would rather have lived in New York under Cuomo than lived in Florida in our freedom zone." "Thats not what he used to say. Six months ago, he would have never said that, right. He used to say how great Florida was," DeSantis continued. "His whole family moved to Florida under my governorship. Are you kidding me?" Former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis The governor, who won an overwhelming 19-point re-election victory last November, also reiterated his case that hes a winner and sniped at Trumps electability in 2024, emphasizing that "theres no substitute for victory," and claiming that "there are a lot of voters who just arent going to ever vote for him [Trump]." "I think our voters are looking at this and they say, Yeah we appreciate what he did, but we also recognize there are a lot of voters that just arent gonna ever vote for him," DeSantis argued. "I know people in Florida who voted against me in 18 and for me in 22. They said in 18, I thought you were too much like him and in 22 we realized you were your own guy, were gonna do it." In the months ahead of last weeks campaign launch, DeSantis mostly resisted responding to Trump. But thats changed since he declared his candidacy. "There are things you cant say if you arent a candidate yet. He is now a declared candidate," a source familiar with the DeSantis campaigns thinking told Fox News. WHO'S IN AND WHO'S ON THE SIDELINES YOUR GUIDE TO THE 2024 GOP PRESIDENTIAL NOMINATION RACE But the source highlighted that the "policy critiques are in the context of DeSantis success as governor. Whether its COVID, Disney, abortion, whether its on a number of these other issues, hes making policy critiques based on his successes and where Trump didnt finish the job or made bad decisions." The source argued that the counterpunches are part of an "overall narrative" that "DeSantis has been fighting and winning on these issues and Trump has consecutive election losses under his belt." The Trump campaign obviously has a different view. A Trump campaign official, using a derogatory nickname the former president coined in referencing the Florida governor, told Fox News that "Ron DeSanctimonious just isnt very good at this." Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung, pointing to Tuesday nights kickoff address by the Florida governor, charged that "Ron DeSantis is not a serious person who can take on Joe Biden and bring about the Great American Comeback." Cheung added: "His poorly conceived speech was light on substance and was crafted to appease establishment Never Trumpers who are looking for a swamp puppet that will do their bidding." Longtime GOP consultant David Kochel, pointing to Trumps mastery of aggressive, in-your-face politics, cautioned against engaging in the same tactics that the former president employs. "[Y]ou dont want to get into name-calling or making it personal because its like wrestling with a pig," Kochel said. "You get down in the mud and the pig likes the mud. Thats Trump. I think keeping it to policy and correcting the record of stuff Trump says and the hypocrisy of it youve got to do it, youve got to counterpunch." "Its not really to try to convince Trumps base of anything," Kochel, a veteran of numerous GOP presidential campaigns in Iowa and nationally, emphasized. "Its to show that youre in a competition and that youre willing to fight for it. And Republicans want that. They want some whos a fighter and is going to take on Biden and this is one way to show youre going to do it. You dont have to do it in the manner and style of Trump, but youve got to do it." With Trump arriving in Iowa on Wednesday afternoon and overlapping with DeSantis, whos crisscrossing the state from west to east as he holds four events, dont expect any letup in the war of words. What did Albert Einstein invent? The discoveries that changed the world. Albert Einsteins name is synonymous with genius, and his wild hair is a trope of its own for mad scientists and professors in popular culture. Einsteins discoveries led to modern-day inventions like paper towels, solar power, stock market forecasts and laser pointers, but his theory of general relativity is often regarded as his most significant contribution. Heres a look at the life and work of Einstein, who is considered one of the most influential physicists of the 20th century. Albert Einstein was a German-born physicist who later lived in the U.S. is regarded as one of the most influential physicists of all time. What did Albert Einstein invent? Einstein published four notable papers during his Miracle Year in 1905 while he was working at a Swiss patent office: In his first paper, Einstein applied German physicist Max Plancks quantum theory to light to explain the photoelectric effect. He went on to win the Nobel Prize for this work in 1921. His second paper used the Brownian motion, or the motion of tiny particles suspended in liquid, to share the first experimental proof of the existence of atoms, according to Britannica. His third paper, On the Electrodynamics of Moving Bodies, offered Einsteins special theory of relativity. His fourth paper led to the development of the most well-recognized equation in science: E = mc2. E=mc2 says, basically, mass and energy are the same physical entity. This equation, and his other theories, helped in the development of the atomic bomb, though Einstein was never asked to participate in the American-led atomic weapon effort called the Manhattan Project. In 1915, he published his general theory of relativity, the first theory of gravity since the publication of "Principia", by Sir Isaac Newton in 1687. Newtons work established gravity both as a concept and a universal law, stating that gravity is a constant force that tugs on objects. The tug will be stronger if the object has more mass, and weaker if you increase the distance between two objects. Einsteins theory, which he discovered while the director of the Kaiser Wilhelm Institute for Physics at the University of Berlin, tackled the explanation of gravity. His theory of general relativity says that gravity is a natural consequence of a mass existence in space that mass can bend space and time. Newton didnt believe objects affected space, the American Museum of Natural History writes, but Einstein did, and had even distinguished a fourth dimension known as space-time in his 1905 special theory of relativity. Einstein also predicted the existence of gravitational waves in his theory of relativity. Instead of viewing gravity as a constant, immediate force, Einstein proposed a large change in mass would cause space to squeeze and stretch by a small amount. Einsteins last work, which remained unfinished when he died, was on unified field theory, which uses a single theoretical framework to describe fundamental forces and the relationships between elementary particles, according to Britannica. Remembering Stephen Hawking: 5 things to know about the legendary physicist More on gravity: Is there gravity on the moon? How it compares to Earth's When did Albert Einstein die? Einstein died at the age of 76 on April 18, 1955, of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. According to AMNH, Einstein denied surgery for the burst blood vessel, saying I want to go when I want to go. It is tasteless to prolong life artificially. I have done my share; it is time to go. I will do it elegantly. What was Albert Einsteins IQ? Theres no definitive answer or evidence Einstein had his IQ tested, but his IQ is estimated to be around 160. Theoretical physicist Stephen Hawkings IQ is estimated to be the same, but the two physicists are far from the highest IQs recorded despite popular acclaim. The average IQ score in the U.S. is 98. Highest IQ ever recorded: Here's what we know about the world's smartest people Just Curious?: We're here to answer your everyday questions This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What did Albert Einstein invent? Behind the physicist's theories. Miami Commissioner Joe Carollo has spent decades running roughshod over political opponents, making controversial statements and spouting conspiracy theories. On Wednesday just before 2 p.m. and after almost two calendar months of testimony by more than two dozen witnesses, a jury in the Fort Lauderdale federal courthouse will decide if, this time, the commissioner went too far in his treatment of a pair of Little Havana businessmen. They will also decide if has to pay a price for it both financially and perhaps politically. The six-member jury will decide if Carollo violated the mens First Amendment rights by weaponizing city resources in a campaign to close down several popular businesses they operate in Little Havanas Calle Ocho district, all because they supported a political opponent of the commissioner, who he eventually defeated. Before the jury broke Wednesday, the sides offered closing arguments, with plaintiff attorney Courtney Caprio arguing that Carollo tried to destroy businessmen William Bill Fuller and Martin Pinilla. She said the men should be awarded close to $100 million for the emotional costs, harm to their reputations and for punitive damages they suffered from Carollos targeting of their businesses. It was pure intimidation. It was meant to punish, Caprio told jurors. Carollos defense attorney Mason Pertnoy countered that Fuller and Pinillas problems were brought on themselves for creating a business plan that included not applying for proper permits. The attorney showed more than a dozen instances in which their businesses were cited for not acquiring permitting prior to construction or demolition. They also argued that Carollo never directed anyone to take aim at the men. Business as usual for the plaintiffs is building without permits, Pertnoy told jurors. That has been the evidence throughout. Its just that simple. Its not about targeting. Fuller and Pinilla, who operate several of Calle Ochos more popular restaurants and nightclubs, filed suit against Carollo in federal civil court five years ago. They claim the commissioner was hell-bent on using police and code enforcement to ruin their reputations and shut down their businesses, after they openly backed a political opponent of Carollo in 2017, who he would go on to defeat in a runoff. During the trial that began April 10, the plaintiffs attorneys, led by Jeffrey Gutchess, repeatedly offered testimony and played video that showed police and code enforcement descending through crowds on the businessmens properties late at night, demanding permits that were easily accessed through work computers, even in vehicles. Other video showed Carollo himself late at night arguing with workers about parking conditions. Carollo argues that he was only trying to improve the quality of life for adjacent residents and that Fuller and Pinilla serially abused the permit process by building and remodeling without proper permitting. Strange events during trial Almost from the get-go, what would turn out to be an almost two-month trial was beset by problems and bizarre events several outside of the courthouse. Only three days into the trial that began April 10, the proceedings were disrupted by an historical rainfall that forced a move from the federal courthouse in Fort Lauderdale to the Wilkie D. Ferguson federal courthouse in downtown Miami. The old Fort Lauderdale courthouses electrical system was damaged by the more than 25 inches of rain that fell on downtown Fort Lauderdale in one evening. U.S. District Court Judge Rodney Smith of the Southern District of Florida made the decision to bus jurors to Miami. Then things got really weird: After testifying in Miami, former Police Chief and Carollo foe Art Acevedo, was followed from the courthouse to a restaurant in Coral Gables by a couple of private detectives. Police questioned the investigators, but no explanation was ever given. A few days later, a juror informed the judge of a run-in at a parking garage with a man who told the juror to go on social media and see what Carollo is capable of. Carollos attorneys pounced, alleging the man in the garage was a business partner of Fuller and Pinilla and demanding a mistrial. Smith, angered, said the defense motion was filled with misleading information and he rejected the request. Carollo also angered Judge Smith when he was a no-show on a day in which he was listed as an official witness. And its still unclear what will come from a photo taken in the courtroom by one of Carollos attorneys, a strict no-no in federal court. Smith blasted the defense team, telling attorneys Ben Kuehne, Mason Pertnoy, Marc Sarnoff and Tom Scott, that if they dont come up with an agreeable alternative in a month, they will be likely be suspended from practicing law in the Southern District for two years. In Miami, three former police chiefs testified against Carollo, two who claimed he pushed them to try and find reasons to shut down businesses run by Fuller and Pinilla. A third chief testified he told the commissioner to stay away from speaking directly with his staff. One of them Richie Blom, a former Doral police chief and also a former Carollo chief of staff, said Carollo insisted he measure the distance from one of the mens businesses to a neighboring religious establishment to see if it was close enough to force the pulling of a liquor license. A former administrative assistant testified Carollo asked her to lie under oath and say that Steve Miro, a high-ranking liaison on Carollos staff who the commissioner was trying to remove, had sexually harassed her. Finally, after almost three weeks, the trial returned to Fort Lauderdale, but without working elevators, forcing jurors and others attending the trial to walk up to the second floor each day. Still, a handful of the most powerful people in Miami defended the commissioner, bolstering his contention that everything he was doing was simply to improve the quality of life of the adjacent residential community and that Fuller and Pinilla had repeatedly built out and restored properties without proper permitting. In a heated exchange with plaintiff attorney Jeff Gutchess, Miami City Manager Art Noriega said Carollo never pressured any of the citys 4,600 employees to look at any of the mens business entities. And, Noriega said, when Carollo did speak with police about potential problems, he only did so after asking the city manager for permission. The trial for the lawsuit filed five years ago finally began in early April after two appellate court filings by Carollo failed to stop the proceedings. The U.S. Supreme Court also refused to hear the case. Carollos exorbitant attorney fees which city records obtained by the Miami Herald show were almost $2 million even before the trial began - are being paid by the city. City Attorney Victoria Mendez blamed the cost on Fuller and Pinilla and said Carollo had the right to be subsidized for doing his job. The fight between Carollo and the two men began long before trial, with Fuller inviting media to the front steps of City Hall in 2019 with claims that the commissioner had done work on his Coconut Grove home without proper permitting. He was later cited by code enforcement. What exactly the verdict means for Carollo a bombastic commissioner first elected to a seat in Miami in the early 1980s isnt yet clear. He owns a home in Coconut Grove that Miami-Dade records show is valued at $1.6 million. Did you know theres an election going on? Heres whats on your ballot in Fort Worth Two-term incumbent Bill Greenhill is fighting to keep his Tarrant County College Board seat after coming in second in the District 4 race in the May 6 election. Hes running against sales account executive Laura Forkner Pritchett who got 42.3% compared to 30.5% for Greenhill. Theirs is among the races voters will decide in the June 10 runoff election. Others include a Fort Worth school board seat and a newly created seat on the Fort Worth City Council. Early voting began May 30 and runs through June 6. Greenhill is running on a platform of transparency, fiscal responsibility, and maintaining the college district as a resource for workforce training. Forkner Pritchetts platform also puts an emphasis on workforce training while calling for lower taxes and an end to so-called race based hiring. Tarrant County College should be hiring instructors and professors based on merit rather than the color of a persons skin, Forker Pritchett said at a recent candidate forum. Greenhill responded this was a non-issue given the recent passage of Texas Senate Bill 17, which bans state colleges and universities from allowing race, sex, color, or ethnicity to influence hiring decisions, according to the bills text. Forkner Pritchett also criticized Greenhill for voting to maintain the college districts property tax rate, which effectively increased taxes given rising home values. The college district has had to make up for a decrease in funding from the state, Greenhill said at the same candidate forum. He pointed to figures showing the tax on an average homestead for Tarrant County College increased by $37.44 between 2021 and 2022. Fort Worth City Council District 11 Jeanette Martinez, an executive administrator for Tarrant County Commissioner Roy Brooks, faces Rick Herring, a neighborhood activist and ERISA consultant. The pair emerged from a five-person field on May 6 with Martinez getting 36.3% to Herrings 34.1%. District 11 is one of two districts created after voters narrowly approved a charter amendment in 2016 to expand the city council. It had the lowest voter turnout of the eight contested races. Herring faced criticism from Fort Worth Democratic State Rep. Ramon Romero for his record of voting in Republican party primaries. A mailer sent out by Romeros campaign tried to paint Herring as a MAGA Republican. Herring said he has been supportive of politicians from both parties and argued that partisanship has no role in Fort Worth city politics. Martinez faced criticism from some of Herrings supporters for saying shell keep her job with Tarrant County if elected to the Fort Worth City Council. Theyve argued her county job represents a conflict of interest that will force her to recuse herself during important votes. Martinez is in charge of constituent services for Brooks. Her job is to help people get what they need from the county when they reach out with an issue or problem. She doesnt serve in a policy making role, which means keeping her county job wouldnt violate Texas State laws prohibiting dual office holding. The only potential for conflict would be inter-local agreements when the city and county are collaborating on a project, she said, vowing to recuse herself from those votes and discussions if elected to the City Council. Martinez will be allowed to keep her county job is elected, a spokesperson for Tarrant County wrote in an email to the Star-Telegram. Fort Worth School Board District 5 Incumbent Carin C.J. Evans hopes for a better showing after getting 31.6% of the vote compared to 45.5% for challenger Kevin Lynch on May 6. Lynch is running on a platform of empowering parents, keeping political agendas out of schools, and fiscal responsibility. Evans is running on a similar platform, but has argued her experience makes her the best candidate to actually get those things done. Lynch pointed to public dissatisfaction with the district as one of the reasons he performed so well in the May 6 election, speaking at a recent candidate forum. He argued more needs to be done to help students meet grade level reading standards, and more needs to be done to improve transparency on the budget. The Fort Worth school districts problems are complex and issues with reading wont be solved overnight, Evans said speaking at the same candidate forum. She pointed to the districts improvement from a D+ to a B- rating during her time on the board. We still have miles to go before we can become an A+ district, but we can get there, she said. Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua] A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. On Monday morning, a group of nearly 50 Tibetan antelopes was seen gathering by the side of the road at a section of the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. As a precautionary measure, the staff of the nature reserve implemented temporary traffic control to ensure safety. Once the leading antelope carefully assessed the safety of the surroundings, the entire flock swiftly crossed the road and proceeded towards the vast hinterland of Hoh Xil. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. "As weather conditions improved, there has been an uptick in the number of Tibetan antelopes crossing the highway to Zonag Lake in Hoh Xil," said Gyaom Dorge, a staffer with the Wudaoliang protection station of the Hoh Xil management bureau. Over 1,000 Tibetan antelopes have traversed the vicinity near the station en route to Hoh Xil since this year's migration began on April 26, nine days earlier than last year. Patrolling and monitoring along the migration route have been stepped up to ensure the species reach their breeding spots undisturbed. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. Doctor found dead 9 days after not showing for work at Missouri hospital, family says A Missouri doctor who was missing for more than a week has been found dead in Arkansas, his family says. John Forsyth, 49, had last been seen Sunday, May 21. He was later reported missing after not showing up for work at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, according to the Cassville Police Department. The doctor stayed at a trailer near the hospital and went there for a short amount of time after leaving the clinic the day he was reported missing, KY3 reported. Forsyths car, police said, was located abandoned at a Cassville park. His wallet, passport, checkbook and keys were left behind, according to KOLR. His brother said in a Facebook post early Wednesday that he was found dead. Forsyths body was found in northwest Arkansas, KOLR reported. Its unclear how Forsyth died, but the Associated Press reported there were no signs of foul play. Our lives have (led) us in very different directions, but in the last couple of years weve been bonding over our intense desire to understand the mysteries of the universe, and Ive treasured those conversations like precious jewels, Forsyths brother, Richard Forsyth, said in a May 29 Facebook post. I rarely meet anyone I can toss around ideas with like he can. John Forsyth was a doctor in the Aurora area for many years, his sister previously said. He practiced medicine for more than 20 years after receiving his degree from Ross University School of Medicine. He really cared about his patients, Richard Forsyth told the AP. And he loved his kids. Cassville is about 200 miles south of Kansas City. Missing teen with autism found dead after vanishing from summer camp, Georgia cops say 22-year-old missing for months found dead in Oregon woods, cops say. Worst nightmare Missing mans body pulled from lake after he vanished near boat dock, Georgia cops say How does he choose?: Feds aid search for serial bank robbery suspect in North Carolina Over the last week, police say Kelvin Simmons has robbed four banks in the Charlotte area. From Salisbury to Belmont, Mooresville to Statesville, Simmons is accused of walking into banks with a Minions lunch bag and walking out with fresh cash. READ MORE: Alleged serial bank robber arrested in western NC, US Marshals say Now, Channel 9s Dave Faherty has learned that the U.S. Marshals are assisting in the search for Simmons. Authorities say Simmons keeps his hand in the lunch bag while threatening the clerk, implying that he has a gun. I was pulling into my parking lot; he was in a rush or something and then I saw him pulling out like crazy, he flew out, said Luis Perez. Perez had just arrived at work Tuesday morning when he spotted a man running from the First Horizon bank across the street. He was unaware a robbery had happened there. ALSO READ: Suspect arrested after bank robbery in Wingate, sheriffs office says Minutes later, police showed up at the bank and set out a mugshot for Simmons. Last year, Channel 9 reported when Simmons allegedly robbed a bank in Stanly County and called in an active shooter threat at a university to divert attention away from the bank. Now, hes wanted again. Authorities believe Simmons may be driving a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe. Folks who work near the bank in Statesville hope he is caught soon, and they say they have a lot of questions. What does he have in his lunch box? Does he actually have a weapon? asked Phalen Wilder. SEE MORE: Suspected Statesville bank robber arrested in Pennsylvania, police say I want to know how hes picking these banks. Hes going city to city thinking how does he choose what bank to rob? asked Tina Morrison. Faherty went to several of the banks on Wednesday and noticed that three of them are just off of the interstate. Simmons is still on the loose, and authorities say he should be considered armed and dangerous. If you see him, youre asked to call 911. (WATCH: $50,000 reward offered after robbery of Charlotte mail carrier) Does the U.S. need new laws to prevent the worst-case scenarios for AI? The 360 shows you diverse perspectives on the days top stories and debates. Illustration by Alex Cochran for Yahoo News; photos: Weiquan Lin/Getty Images, Getty Images Whats happening Rapid improvements in artificial intelligence have led to countless predictions about how the technology might improve our lives. At the same time, it has also inspired deep concern about the dangers it may pose. Some of the same people who believe AI products like chatbots and image creators can make us more efficient, creative and generally happier say they could also cause incredible harm if not properly controlled. They worry that AI could be used to promote misinformation, perpetuate racial and gender bias, undermine education and threaten jobs all problems that could become more severe as the models become more sophisticated. There are also plenty of technologists who fear AI could ultimately bring about human extinction. These fears have inspired a global push for new laws to regulate the use of AI in hopes that guardrails can mitigate the biggest dangers of the technology while allowing its potential benefits to grow. Its not just lawmakers and critics calling for limits on AI; some developers of the most powerful AI tools also say legislation is desperately needed to prevent worst-case scenarios. I think if this technology goes wrong, it can go quite wrong, Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI told the Senate Judiciary Committee earlier this month, and added that products like his company's popular language model ChatGPT could cause significant harm to the world. Unlike recent congressional hearings focused on technology that have been dominated by partisan grandstanding and intense criticism for Big Tech CEOs, the conversation about AI was largely amicable, with nearly all participants agreeing that some sort of new regulation is needed to keep this swiftly evolving technology in check. What those new laws might look like is less clear. Altman argued in favor of a licensing system in which the government would approve and potentially revoke a companys right to develop powerful AI systems. Others have called for the creation of a new government agency to oversee AI. The European Union is currently considering a sweeping set of reforms that would create strict transparency rules for high-risk AI models and ban certain uses, like real-time facial recognition and so-called predictive policing. Why theres debate Despite AI regulations being the rare issue where many Democrats, Republicans and industry leaders are in agreement, theres a lot of debate over whether Congress can craft the kind of legislation that would help avoid the worst outcomes without stifling the technology altogether. We had the same choice when we faced social media. We failed to seize that moment, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said during the hearing. Like Blumenthal, backers of new regulations say laws are needed now to stop the harms of AI from becoming so pervasive that they cant be effectively reined in. Some skeptics, though they support the concept of AI regulation, argue that the notoriously tech-illiterate members of Congress simply dont have the knowledge to craft rules that would make much of a difference. Others say AI is developing at such a breakneck speed that even a well-designed new law would be woefully out of date by the time it went into effect. A number of experts fear that lawmakers may rely too much on guidance from major AI companies when drafting new rules, allowing people like Altman to design a system that gives them too much leeway and lets a handful of firms monopolize what could become one of the worlds most important industries. There are also critics who oppose regulating AI at all, arguing that any restrictions will stifle innovation and derail the technology from becoming the world-changing tool it has the potential to become. Whats next Despite a relative sense of urgency around the need for AI regulations in Washington, theres no clear timeline for when any bill to create them might come up for a vote in Congress. The European Union Parliament is scheduled to hold a decisive vote on its proposed AI plan next month. Perspectives Congress has a duty to protect Americans from the dangers of AI Freedom has always required a good dose of self-control and ethical conduct, as well as a large amount of patience for those who will take advantage of it. Any regulatory agency setting rules for AI will have to tread delicately around free speech rights. But that doesnt absolve us from setting those rules, negating real risks to our existence, involving scientists who know more than lawmakers with unsound knowledge and keeping a wary eye on this new technology as its algorithms dance and twirl around us. Jay Evensen, Deseret News Regulations can make a major difference, but only if they become a reality soon AI will continue to evolve and change all our lives. To ensure that it improves our lives, we cannot continue to operate in the current Wild West. In the case of AI: Act now, or you might not have a chance tomorrow! Ioana Petrescu, The Hill Hastily passed laws may not address the actual dangers AI will create Right now, generative A.I. technology is changing so quickly that its difficult to predict what it will look like five or 10 years down the road. Its harder to predict what social or economic problems A.I. is likely to cause, and still harder to anticipate what policy changes are likely to be helpful. So its not obvious to me that Congresss sense of urgency on this issue is justified. It might make more sense to wait a year or two and see how A.I. technology evolves before passing a major bill to regulate A.I. Timothy B. Lee, Slate With the right laws in place, AI can become an enormous force for good If handled in the right way, the potential benefits of AI could be huge. But this current approach is less likely to boost the countrys coffers and more likely to enrich entrepreneurs and investors while society is left to bear the costs. Editorial, The Guardian Regulations would create AI monopolies and ensure the AI never reaches its full potential In everything from banking to Uber, we have seen industry incumbents lobby for more regulations because they know these barriers to entry will block their competitors and, as established entities, they can weather them more easily. Its a crony-capitalist way of pulling up the ladder behind you to ensure long-term profits by using the government to block your would-be competitors. Brad Polumbo, Washington Examiner Congress is probably too broken to get its act together on AI Theres just one problem: Nobody on Capitol Hill agrees on what to do about AI, how to do it or even why. The legislative chaos threatens to leave Washington at sea as generative AI explodes onto the scene potentially one of the most disruptive technologies to hit the workplace and society in generations. Brendan Bordelon and Mohar Chatterjee, Politico Congress prefers to make a show of pretending to address problems in tech while never actually doing anything When lawmakers ignore groundwork laid elsewhere, preferring instead to grandstand about pioneering new policies in alliance with powerful technologists like Altman, they succeed in generating plenty of hype about their coming alleged accomplishments. But they risk achieving nothing. Parmy Olson, Bloomberg AI is changing too fast for any laws to effectively control it As with all revolutionary technologies, the ability of governments to effectively regulate [AI] will almost certainly fall short. This is no criticism of lawmakers and regulators, but a side effect of the basic fact that law advances incrementally while technology evolves exponentially. Blair Levin and Larry Downes, Harvard Business Review Lawmakers cant afford to repeat the mistakes they made with social media Congress has proved capable at hauling tech executives to Capitol Hill for these type of sessions, but has proved frustratingly incapable of the hard decision-making or reaching agreements across the aisle that goes into making actual laws. While it is a sign of progress that senators at least seem to realize their failures of recent years, it is time for them to act instead of ceding control of tech regulation to Europe. Therese Poletti, MarketWatch Is there a topic youd like to see covered in The 360? Send your suggestions to the360@yahoonews.com. Illustration by Alex Cochran for Yahoo News; photos: Weiquan Lin/Getty Images, Getty Images The Justice Department filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against the coal empire of West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice over $5 million in unpaid fines related to health, safety and environmental violations. The civil action names as defendants 13 of the Justice family coal businesses based in West Virginia, Virginia, Delaware and Tennessee and the governors son, James Justice III. Defendants have been cited for over 130 violations and have failed to pay over $5 million in civil penalties assessed by the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, the 128-page lawsuit states, adding that the Justice family businesses also owe more than $190,000 in fees related to abandoned mine lands. The billionaire Republican governor, who just launched a campaign for the Senate seat held by conservative Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin in West Virginia, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The civil penalties assessed by the Department of the Interior concern violations from 2018 to 2022. They include a failure to ensure the seismic stability of a dam, unlawful discharges outside the permit area, a failure to stabilize surface areas to control erosion and a failure to ensure revegetation is compatible with the regions natural surroundings. Justices coal empire has been cited for numerous other safety violations. In 2020, a ProPublica investigation found that over the past three decades, his companies had been tied up in more than 600 lawsuits and paid $128 million in judgments and settlements. Related... Driver Survives After Car Flies Off Tow Truck Ramp and Vaults into the Air Before Crashing See Video Driver Survives After Car Flies Off Tow Truck Ramp and Vaults into the Air Before Crashing See Video The driver was seriously injured in the crash, which happened along Highway 84 in Georgia last week Lowndes County Sheriff's Office/tmx Airborne car crash A Florida driver was taken to the hospital following a dramatic airborne crash along a Georgia highway last week. The incident, which took place on May 24, was caught on a Lowndes County Sheriffs Deputys body cam when the officer was responding to a separate accident across Highway 84, according to the Georgia Department of Public Safety. Footage from the crash showed the car traveling in the same lane as the tow truck, which was "sitting in the left lane of travel with its emergency lights activated attempting to recover a wrecked vehicle," according to an accident report that was obtained by PEOPLE. The car then hit the back ramp of the truck and "vaulted" about 120 ft. into the air before hitting another car, per the report. It then traveled another 23 feet before finally coming to a rest. Related: Wife Pulls Husband from Burning Car After Crash That Killed 1: He Thought He Was Dead A deputy was struck by debris and suffered minor injuries after the car made impact with the other vehicle, according to the accident report. The driver, a 21-year-old from Tallahassee, survived the crash and was taken to South Georgia Medical Center in Valdosta with serious injuries, a spokesperson for the Georgia DPS public information office told PEOPLE 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 celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The driver of the third car was not injured in the accident, per the report. Investigators have not said if the woman will face any charges, according to CBS affiliate WKMG-TV. The Lowndes County Sheriffs Office did not respond to PEOPLEs request for additional comments about the crash. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. MOSCOW The Kremlins war is no longer a distant concern for many Russians. For more than 15 months, the fighting has been focused on the battlefields and battered cities of Ukraine, while life continued largely as normal for millions across the border. But Tuesdays drone assault the first on civilian areas of Moscow since the war began brought the reality of the conflict from the front lines to the Russian capital. While President Vladimir Putin and his officials sought to play down the attack, which caused minor damage, some Moscow residents told NBC News it had left them shaken and concerned that more may be on the horizon. Influential pro-war voices also renewed their criticism of the Kremlin, following a wave of incidents that have exposed the countrys defenses and signaled the war was increasingly being waged deep inside Russia. I dont feel safe, said Anatoly, who did not want his last name used. The war has made gauging public opinion in Russia difficult, with many people afraid to speak their minds or reveal their last names, especially to the foreign media, amid a fierce crackdown on dissent and any criticism of what the Kremlin calls its special military operation in Ukraine. Russia Moscow Drone Strike (Kirill Kudryavtsev / AFP - Getty Images) Anatoly, 83, said he was not so sure about the effectiveness of the citys air defenses, despite Putins praise for their work. If they even flew to Red Square, then they will get here all the more, he said, referring to the recent drone attack on the Kremlin itself. Moscow again blamed Kyiv for Tuesdays incident, but Ukraine said it was not directly involved. The Russian Defense Ministry said eight drones were downed over the capital, with some residential buildings damaged and two people suffering minor injuries. Anatoly was speaking on Leninsky Prospekt, a street in a quiet and well-off neighborhood of southwest Moscow that he has called home for 40 years. He had not woken up before to a drone crashing into a neighbors balcony. But there was no sense of outward panic in the area. Children played in a playground and people enjoying the sunny weather stopped to peer at the building, which had a police cordon around it. Residents Marina, 38, and her 8-year-old son, Kolya, who have been living in the neighborhood for nearly a decade, said the incident gave them unpleasant feelings. Everything is just beginning, said Marina, who did not want her last name used out of fear of speaking out. I dont know who can have a sense of security right now. Svetlana, 61, another resident who also feared giving her last name, said she was out for a morning walk with her dog when she saw emergency services arriving and assumed there was a fire. She then learned that a drone had hit one of the buildings in the neighborhood. It was an unpleasant surprise, she said. A terrible nuisance. Tragic, one might say. You wouldnt wish this on anyone, and what will happen next also nobody knows. Russian officials and propagandists largely shrugged off the drone attack, with many of the most outspoken Kremlin hawks refraining from comment on social media for hours, rather than rushing to urge escalation in response. Some, like Margarita Simonyan, the head of the Russian state broadcaster RT, eventually waded in. There is no panic, she said on Telegram, adding that it was business as usual on the streets of central Moscow. But it will happen again, she warned, and the real question is how Moscow authorities will respond if many more drones are launched at the capital. Putin himself said in a brief statement much later Tuesday that the air defense work was satisfactory, and that there was an understanding of how to seal the capitals skies going forward. Drone attack Moscow (Aleksandr Kazakov / Sipa USA via AP) But some of Russias influential military bloggers questioned the nothing-to-see-here narrative from the Kremlin, framing the drone attacks as part of a psychological warfare campaign by Ukraine meant to intimidate Russian civilians one that might be working. If the purpose of the raid was to stress the population, then the very fact of the appearance of Ukrainian drones in the sky over Moscow has already contributed to this, the Telegram military channel Rybar, known for its pro-war position, wrote to its 1.1 million followers shortly after the attacks. The inert reaction of Putin and his officials creates the feeling that the Russian leadership does not understand the full danger of the situation in which the country finds itself, Tatiana Stanovaya, founder and head of the political analysis firm R.Politik and a nonresident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, wrote in her analysis. Putin is more concerned about stoking alarm that might force the Kremlin to respond with limited resources and options, she said, than he is of being undermined by an appearance of weakness. No matter how daring the next Ukrainian attack is, Putin doesnt think it can provoke dissatisfaction with the authorities in Russian society, she added. Despite growing public criticism, some analysts agreed with that calculus and doubted the attack would have a serious impact on the Russian publics support for Putin and the war. The attack caused little damage, was irrelevant for most Russians, and is being finessed by the Russian media as another Ukrainian provocation in the face of Russian restraint, said Christopher Tuck, an expert in conflict and security at Kings College London. Single incidents such as this will not change Russian domestic politics appreciably, he said. What matters more are larger trends, such as the situation on the ground in Ukraine and the level of Russian military casualties. Tatyana Chistikova reported from Moscow, and Yuliya Talmazan from London. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Drone strikes hit Moscow and Kyiv -- in the growing world of drone warfare, anything goes when it comes to international law Russian security forces take measures near a damaged site following a drone strike on May 30, 2023. Sefa Karacan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images At least eight drone strikes hit Moscow in the early morning of May 30, 2023, damaging several buildings and injuring civilians. This follows Russias targeting residential buildings in Ukraine with a wave of drone attacks in late May, killing civilians. While Ukraine has said it is not directly responsible for the strikes on Moscow, Russias government has called the strikes a terrorist attack. For more than a year, daily life in Ukraine has been marked by aerial vehicles known as drones littering the sky, creating unease and inflicting real damage in the war with Russia. Both Russia and Ukraine are using drones in this war to remotely locate targets and drop bombs, among other purposes. Today, drones are used in various other conflicts but are also used to deliver packages, track weather and entertain drone hobbyists. Military drones range from small consumer quadcopters to remotely piloted warplanes and all types are being used by militaries around the world. As a scholar of public diplomacy and foreign policy and a former United States undersecretary of state for public diplomacy and public affairs I know how important it is for people to understand drones and their proliferation, given the risks of war, terrorism and accidental drone clashes in the world today. A Ukrainian soldier launches a drone from his hand in November 2022 in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine. Elena Tita/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images A buying spree The U.S. is among more than 100 countries using drones in times of conflict. Terrorists have also been known to deploy drones because they are relatively low-cost weapons with high degrees of civilian damage. Consumer drone shipments, globally, topped 5 million units in 2020 and are expected to surpass 7 million by 2025. Sales of drones globally were up 57% from 2021 to 2022. With the exponential rise in drone purchases over the last few years, there are few constraints for buyers, creating a wild, wild west of uncontrolled access and usage. Each country is free to decide when and where drones fly, without answering to any other country or international authority governing drones. There is little on-the-ground guidance on the rules of the sky. Different purposes Each country has a unique interest in getting and using drones. China is increasingly using sophisticated drones for covert surveillance, especially in international waters to patrol the disputed islands in the South China Sea. Its expanding drone program has influenced other countries like the U.S. to also invest more in the technology. Turkeys military has a highly sophisticated drone, the Bayraktar TB2, which is capable of carrying laser-guided bombs and small enough to fit in a flatbed truck. The United Arab Emirates imports drones from China and Turkey to deploy in Yemen and Libya to monitor warlords in case conflict breaks out. And South Korea is considering starting a special drone unit after it failed to respond to a recent North Korean drone incursion. When North Korea deployed five drones toward its southern neighbor in December 2022, South Korea had to scramble its fighter jets to issue warning shots. No rules in the air The countries with armed drones are individually navigating their own rules instead of an international agreed-upon set of regulations. International law prohibits the use of armed force unless the United Nations Security Council authorizes an attack, or in the case of self-defense. But short of launching a full war, drones can legally be deployed for counterterrorism operations, surveillance and other non-self-defense needs, creating a slippery slope to military conflict. Figuring out the national and international rules of the sky for drone usage is hard. For 20 years, experts have tried to create international agreements on arms and some countries supported an informal 2016 U.N. agreement that recommends countries document the import and export of unmanned aerial vehicles. But these efforts never evolved into serious, comprehensive standards and laws that kept pace with technology. There are several reasons for that. In order protect their national sovereignty, governments do not want to release drone data. They also want to avoid duplication of their technology and to maintain their market share of the drone trade. A MQ-9 Reaper drone awaits its next mission over the U.S.-Mexico border in November 2022. John Moore/Getty Images US and drones The U.S. has wrestled with how to balance drone warfare as it became involved in overseas operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria and other conflict zones. The U.S. killed a top al-Qaida leader with a drone strike in Afghanistan in 2022. But there have been other instances of drone strikes that resulted in unintended casualties and damage. In 2021, The New York Times reported that a U.S. drone strike on a vehicle thought to contain an Islamic State bomb resulted in the deaths of 10 children not three civilians, as the U.S. said might have happened. There is scant public opinion research on how American feel about the use of drones overseas, which makes building public support for their military use difficult. Drone dangers Drone dangers are real. Many drone experts, including myself, believe it is unsafe for each countrys military to make its own decisions on drones with no rules guiding drone transfers, exports, imports and usage and no major forum to discuss drones, as the technology continues to evolve. Multiple drones can communicate with each other remotely, creating shared objectives rather than an individual drone path or pattern. Like a swarm of bees, these drones form a deadly and autonomous aerial army ripe for accidents. With the advent of artificial intelligence and more sophisticated unmanned aerial vehicles, drones can change speed, altitude and targeting in seconds, making them even more difficult to track and investigate. Attacks can happen seemingly out of the blue. Drone detection is another complication, especially on the battlefield. Ukrainian and Russian forces each want to know exactly where a drone originated. That can be difficult to determine, especially at night, as drones are fast-moving vehicles. Traditional radar detection has grown more sophisticated with new drone detection platforms to more accurately decipher the exact location of the drone operator. In my view, the world needs new and consistent rules on drone usage for the decade ahead better international monitoring of drone incursions and more transparency in the outcome of drone attacks. This is an updated version of an article originally published on May 19, 2023. This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. If you found it interesting, you could subscribe to our weekly newsletter. It was written by: Tara Sonenshine, Tufts University. Read more: Tara Sonenshine 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 chests full of French yarn, a German tape recorder, and other objects speak to a time when sourcing Western products from behind the Iron Curtain required a mix of immense opportunity and effort. In the attic of my childhood home in Sofia, Bulgaria, there is a treasure chest. It looks like a prop from a pirate movie, big enough to hold a fortune. But instead of being filled with gold, the chest is crammed with rolls of knitting yarn from the 20th-century French manufacturer Pingouin, sorted by color and packed accordingly inside a motley collection of plastic bags. These rolls, of which there are at least 100, have been sitting in that chest for 60 years, ever since my grandparents moved into the house that would one day become my childhood home. Today, I can go online and order the same amount of vintage Pingouin on eBay or Etsy in just a few clicks. But when my grandma first stored it in that chest all those years prior, the world was an unthinkably different place. My grandparents were born in the 1920s, when Bulgaria was a monarchy ruled by a tsar who assumed power after the First World War. There were wide boulevards named after the countrys sole ruler, but there was also postwar turmoil. In the late 1940s, with the end of World War II, came the start of communism: The tsar was ousted, the streets were renamed, and the country, my country, found itself trapped behind a rare, one-way kind of border meant more to keep people from leaving than entering. The border applied to objects, too, albeit in reverse. Western products were banned: No Johnnie Walker whisky, no Swiss chocolate, no Pingouin knitting yarn. Even imported products like fresh produce were absent from the shelves of Bulgarian markets. When my grandmother graduated from high school right after the Communist Party came to power in Bulgaria, "there was nothing," she once told me. (Even after I was born, after the Communist Party had fallen out of power, the shortage lingered; friends of my mothers who were traveling abroad would sometimes fly back with packs of baby formula for me.) But that was after 1990. During the Bulgarian Communist Partys roughly 45-year rule, there was really no way out of the Soviet Bloc, except for a select few who scored business abroad. My grandfather, an architect, was among them. In the 196os, he was recruited by a Bulgarian company called Technoimpex whose mission was to deploy highly qualified experts abroad (and extend the ideological reach of the Communist Party). The job was a way for my family to live on the other side of the Iron Curtain for four years, so they left Bulgaria for a small Tunisian city called Gafsa, perched at the northern tip of the Sahara Desert. The trip from Sofia to Gafsa took two days, three planes, and an eight-hour train ride. My grandfather went first. My grandmother followed three months later, boarding a plane for the first time with my mother and uncle, ages four and eight, respectively. Over the next few years, my grandfather would go on to design dozens of buildings in Gafsa and nearby villages, including a market hall with impressive arched windows, a pavilion with a concrete facade that doubles as an arabesque brise-soleil, and a conference center clad in local stone. Every summer, my family would load up their Peugeot 404, cross the Mediterranean on a ferry, and road trip back to Bulgaria, stopping by whichever countries would grant them visas along the way. Neither Spain nor England would, but many other countries did: In Switzerland, my mother got her first pair of patent leather shoes from Salamander. In Belgium, she asked to trade them for a pet parrot. (It didnt work.) When they reached Bulgaria, they would stop by a store called Corecom, which sold Western goods but only accepted hard currency (not soft, worthless Bulgarian levs), meaning access to the store and its imported items was a privilege to a small subset of Bulgarians who were authorized to travel abroad or do business with Westerners. With the money they saved from my grandfathers deployment, my family would buy the stuff they neededa washing machine, a fridge, and that Peugeot 404and the stuff they wanted: Scottish whisky, Swiss chocolate, a record player. Today, the whisky and the chocolate are gone, but many of the objects they sourced from beyond Bulgarias communist borders still sit in our dusty attic, neatly stored in cardboard boxes and treasure chests (there are more than one). As I sift through the plastic bags inside the biggest one, filled with the Pingouin knitting yarn, I can almost see my grandmother in the Tunisian souk where she and her Bulgarian friend, Elenawhose husband, Damian, was also an architect and my grandfathers colleaguewent shopping. I can see her hunched over the stalls marveling at the blues, greens, and mother of pearl yarns she would later weave into sweaters and tops (one of which I wore to dinner just yesterday). I remember her stories about a strange man following her around in that souk, presumably to make sure she wasnt fraternizing with the enemy or running away from the communist regime (like many Bulgarians did when they got the chance to temporarily leave the country). That man, she would later learn, was part of the so-called Committee for State Security, Bulgarias version of the KGB. In one corner of my childhood homes attic, where the roofs slope makes it difficult to stand up straight, I find my baby bottle in its original packaging. (It reads Chicco, an Italian brandclearly a Corecom purchase.) In another corner, I come across a camping tent from France, several carpets from Tunisia and Morocco, a German Magnetophon, and a metal husk that once held a propane tank for heating, from Spain. For years, I wondered why my family kept all this stuff tucked away in our home, some of it broken, some of it obsolete. But Ive since realized that this attic is the product of an era so defined by absence, that when the opportunity presented itself, we swung the pendulum in the opposite direction. We turned into hamsters, holding onto whatever belongings we acquired by stashing them in the forever expanding pouches of our house: One silverware set, two silverware sets, three. A spare glass shade for the living room chandelier, and a spare spare. And yarn, more yarn than my grandmother could ever knit. Indeed, the world was an unthinkably different place then, and my familys attic is a wondrous portal into it. Related Reading: As a Child of Immigrants, I Feel Guilty for Embracing the Minimalist Aesthetic Tidycore Makes a Real Mess Sacramentos grid follows a standard chronological and alphabetical order, which can feel pretty mundane but the citys alleyways? Thats where it gets interesting. Eggplant Alley. Fat Alley. Tomato Alley? Theres a method to the madness. Twenty alleys in Sacramento are named in this way across the midtown and downtown area. While less mundane, the names still follow an alphabetical order. The first letter corresponds with the street parallel to the north, said Stacia Cosgrove, the principal city planner for the city of Sacramento. Eggplant Alley? Just south of E Street. How do Sacramento alleys get their names? The idea to name Sacramentos alleys came about in 2009 to promote safety, establish a sense of place and help identify buildings more quickly, Cosgrove said. When Sacramentos alley names were being considered, it was important to pick names that wouldnt duplicate street names in other counties. That really narrowed it down, she said. Sacramentos history was then considered to encourage more businesses to locate on alleys throughout the midtown and downtown area. Now, Sacramento residents can visit businesses like Tomato Alley Free House, a neighborhood bar with Asian bites, next to Tomato Alley. Or head to Liestal Alley, where youll stumble upon the entrance to Old Soul Cafe, where you can get craft coffee and food. Heres a list of alley names in Sacramento: Chinatown Alley Democracy Alley Eggplant Alley Fat Alley Government Alley Historic Alley Improv Alley Jazz Alley Kayak Alley Liestal Alley Matsui Alley Neighbors Alley Opera Aly Powerhouse Alley Quill Alley Rice Alley Salons Alley Tomato Alley Uptown Alley Victorian Alley History behind the names Its hard to pinpoint the exact reason behind most of the names, other than their location, but at least four have historical significance, Cosgrove said: Liestal Alley was named after Sacramentos sister city in Liestal, Switzerland. Fat Alley was named after Frank Fat, restaurant owner of Frank Fats restaurant. Matsui Alley was named after Robert Matsui, former United States representative and Sacramento city councilman, who was born in Sacramento. Tomato Alley and Eggplant Alley are both odes to Sacramento and the Central Valleys farming communities. Can you still name unmarked alleys? Unnamed alleys can eventually get named, too. Alleys that dont already have names, can eventually get assigned one only if a building permit is issued for a new development on an alley that requires an address, Cosgrove said. The Sacramento Building Division maintains a list of pre-approved alley names that can then be picked by the permit holder of a new development, Cosgrove said. To get signage installed at either end of the alley would also be the permit holders responsibility. What do you want to know about life in Sacramento? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email servicejournalists@sacbee.com. A Toyota RAV4 covered 1,942 on 22 May, 2023, driving on a specially designed electric road built by wireless charging startup Electreon (Electreon) An electric car has driven nearly 2,000km (1,250 miles) without stopping to charge as part of a demonstration of an electric road that wirelessly charges vehicles as they drive. Israeli startup Electreon claims the achievement is a new world record for the longest time and distance ever driven non-stop by a passenger electric vehicle (EV), taking just over 100 hours to cover 1,942 kilometres. The stunt was completed using a specially adapted Toyota RAV4, which drove in circles around a track fitted with Electreons Wireless Electric Road technology. The startup claims its tech can solve some of the fundamental challenges facing widespread EV adoption, including range anxiety, slow charge times and battery size. The objective of this 100-hour non-stop driving rally was to demonstrate the unlimited technical potential of Wireless Electric Road technology to power EVs to drive indefinitely with a minimal battery, said Reuven Rivlin, Electreons honorary president. This is yet another clear signal that our Wireless Electric Road technology is ready for large-scale commercial projects globally. The five-day drive involved 56 different drivers, with the vehicle only pausing momentarily to switch between drivers. Electreon plans to develop its wireless charging technology for vehicles alongside Toyota, having signed an agreement with the Japanese automotive giant in March. This partnership will make wireless charging accessible to a diverse and wide range of drivers, and will demonstrate the many benefits of wireless charging as a cost-effective, clean solution for charging EVs, as well as a catalyst in reducing EVs carbon footprint, Electreon chief executive Oren Ezer said at the time. Take a look at our first 24 hours from our 100-hour drive We are well underway into our 100 hours, and we are so excited for what the week has in store. We will be posting daily updates about our progress and keep you updated with each day's events. pic.twitter.com/rQjUbA4Dyj Electreon (@Electreon) May 22, 2023 Top-of-the-range electric vehicles in production currently have a range of just over 500km, though some prototypes have already passed the 1,000km mark. Last year, an electric Mercedes drove from Germany to the UK on a single charge, covering more than 1,200km. The Mercedes Vision EQXX broke its own efficiency record of 1,202km in a road trip from Stuttgart (Germany) to Silverstone (UK) on a single battery charge on 22 June, 2022 (Mercedes-Benz) The Vision EQXX completed the record-breaking journey in just 15 hours, using a battery that has the same capacity as a Tesla Model S. The state-of-the-art is unlikely to ever go into mass production due to the costs of making it, however recent advances in battery technology could see the range of commercial electric vehicles rise significantly in the near future. A China-based battery startup announced earlier this month that it was aiming to become the first company in the world to mass produce electric vehicle batteries with a range of 1,000km thanks to an innovative lithium-manganese-iron-phosphate design. Other companies are also working on electrified roads for wireless or conductive charging, with Sweden unveiling plans to build around 3,000km of electric road by 2045. A briefing organized by the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC) and the CPC Hubei Provincial Committee, with the theme of "Chinese Modernization: New Thinking to Break New Ground," is held in Wuhan, Hubei province on May 30, 2023. [Photo courtesy of the IDCPC] More than 170 representatives from 36 political parties across 28 countries attended a thematic briefing on Chinese modernization on Tuesday in Wuhan, capital of central China's Hubei province. The event, titled "Chinese Modernization: New Thinking to Break New Ground," marked the 15th edition in a series initiated by the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC). The series aims to showcase how regional CPC committees implement General Secretary Xi Jinping's governance ideas and highlight their achievements, while simultaneously offering lessons from the developmental process. More than 170 political party representatives from around the world attend a thematic briefing on Chinese modernization organized by the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC) and the CPC Hubei Provincial Committee in Wuhan, Hubei province on May 30, 2023. [Photo courtesy of the IDCPC] In his speech at the briefing, Liu Jianchao, minister of the IDCPC, emphasized that achieving modernization is a common development goal of all countries. He highlighted how political parties and people of different countries have forged their own modern systems through various practices. Liu said the 20th CPC National Congress held last October proposed advancing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization. He described how this concept answered pertinent questions about the kind of modernization China seeks and the strategies to achieve it. As outlined in the report presented to the congress, Chinese modernization includes the modernization of a huge population, common prosperity for all, material and cultural-ethical advancement, harmony between humanity and nature, and peaceful development. Liu highlighted that Chinese modernization reflects how Chinese Communists, acting in accordance with China's actual conditions while inheriting and developing the essence of Marxism, focus on fulfilling people's aspirations for a better life, and promoting world peace and development through China's own progress. He said Chinese modernization is also an important part of the world's modernization process, generating a strong impetus for global development. Wang Menghui, secretary of the CPC Hubei Provincial Committee, elaborated on Hubei's practices in advancing Chinese modernization from a wide range of perspectives, including economic growth, science and innovation, and environmental protection. World political party representatives visit Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics in Wuhan, Hubei province, on May 30, 2023. [Photo by Zhang Liying/China.org.cn] In an interview on the sidelines of the briefing, Agni Prasad Sapkota, vice-chairman of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) and former speaker of the House of Representatives of Nepal, said, "The world is undergoing changes unseen in a century, which calls for new theories, proposals and models. Chinese modernization is a new model that meets the needs of a changing world." "China has found its own path to modernization, which differs from the Western model. Chinese modernization offers an appealing alternative for many other countries, including Nepal," he said. Gerard Gbenonchi, vice president of the Progressive Union for Renewal and chairman of the Finance and Trade Committee of the National Assembly of Benin, said his delegation was impressed by the miracles created by China under the CPC's leadership, such as eradicating extreme poverty a decade ahead of the United Nations 2030 Agenda. Gbenonchi noted that Benin is also progressing towards modernization, and his party plays a crucial role in that regard. "We have similar views on modernization as China," he stated. "We need to formulate policies in line with Benin's national conditions, and we advocate people-centered modernization." Marie Pencikova, vice-chairwoman of the Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia, dismissed the portrayal of China as a backward country by some Western media outlets based on her first-hand experiences. Pencikova acknowledged China's leadership in many areas, particularly digitalization and green development, adding that she looks forward to learning more about Chinese modernization and adapting some of the experiences to her country. In addition to the briefing, the political party representatives took part in a tour visiting a wetland park, cultural relics, and scientific institutes in Wuhan. Some will extend their trip to other cities in Hubei for a deeper understanding of Chinese modernization. Elon Musk is in China for the first time in 3 years, but people on the Chinese internet only care about a giant panda called Ya Ya Elon Musk has nothing on Ya Ya the panda, at least on Weibo. MICHEL EULER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images and Fu Zhuoxin/Xinhua via Getty Images Elon Musk is visiting China, but a giant panda called Ya Ya is upstaging him on the Chinese internet. Videos of Ya Ya, who just returned from the Memphis Zoo, accumulated 230 million views on Tuesday. She's become a lightning rod for Chinese patriotism as she comes home from a 20-year stint overseas. Elon Musk might be the king of Twitter, but China's social media only has eyes for Ya Ya the panda. Musk arrived in Beijing on Tuesday to kick off his first visit to China in three years, meeting with Foreign Minister Qin Gang and the country's industry and commerce ministries. It's a critical trip for Musk he wants to expand Tesla's business in the country, even as US-China relations continually sour. Yet the high-stakes visit barely made a blip on Weibo, China's version of Twitter, apart from some interest in what Musk was served for dinner (Beijing's famed roast duck was notably missing from the menu). Instead, Ya Ya, the giant panda, dominated the day. After a month of waiting in quarantine, the 23-year-old panda has finally reunited with her kin at the Beijing Zoo. She's returned from a 20-year stint at the Memphis Zoo, where she was on loan to the US as part of China's "panda diplomacy." Pandas are already a symbol of nationalistic pride in China, but Ya Ya has become a lightning rod for Chinese patriotism because of allegations in 2021 that she was mistreated in the US. The Memphis Zoo has denied the accusations, but as Washington and Beijing continued to butt heads, Weibo users saw the reports of neglect as an affront to their country. Now that Ya Ya's back in town, footage of her frolicking in the Beijing Zoo, cataloged under the hashtag "Ya Ya joins the group chat," has accrued 230 million views on Weibo, according to data seen by Insider. Her return was also the top news story on the platform, though to be fair, Weibo is heavily censored and moderated. Musk's duckless dinner, on the other hand, garnered 51 million views on the same day, while hashtags about his China visit and Tesla's stock gained 2.3 million and 5 million views respectively, per Weibo data. The billionaire, who owns a Weibo account with 2 million followers, made a post on the platform on Tuesday morning, praising China's space program. Here's hoping he'll find time to meet "Yilong Ma," his Chinese doppelganger who tries his best to imitate the CEO in English. Read the original article on Insider Elon Musk hailed as 'Brother Ma' during a trip to China, where he's been lavished with a 16-course meal and treated like a king Elon Musk is making his first trip to China in three years. Aly Song/Reuters Elon Musk is getting a royal welcome in China. During a surprise visit to the country, Musk has been inundated with high praise, Reuters reported. His trip has caused a social-media storm, with people eager to recommend places for him to visit. Elon Musk received a 5-star welcome during a surprise trip to China as the nation heaped praise on the billionaire, holding him in the same high esteem as business magnate Jack Ma. Reuters reported that Musk arrived in Beijing by private jet on Tuesday. It was the Tesla and Twitter boss's first trip to China in three years, making his visit a high-profile affair for members of the public. Musk's views on electric vehicles and artificial intelligence are of particular interest. Since arriving, Musk has been called "Brother Ma" and greeted by top ministers from the Chinese government's foreign, commerce, and industry departments, Reuters reported in a separate article on Wednesday, with social-media users labeling him a "global idol." People have also taken to Weibo to make recommendations to Musk on what food he should try during his time in China. A viral poll with more than 13,000 votes, seen by Insider, lists foods including Peking duck, street snack "tang hulu" and mung bean dish "douzhi" as options. Posts on social media, seen by Insider, also show how Musk's menu at a restaurant in Beijing was customized with an image of the Tesla logo and two dark horses accompanied by a Chinese phrase that translates as "the horse that surges ahead of the pack." Pictures of what's thought to be the menu for Musk's dinner in China are circulating on China's Twitter-like Weibo platform. Screengrab/Weibo Reuters reported the evening included a 16-course meal shared with battery executive Zeng Yuqun at the Man Fu Yan restaurant. The praise for Musk in China is in stark contrast to the polarized response the billionaire has faced in the West in recent months, as his ownership and management of Twitter drew criticism and praise alike from users of the app. The visit to China by Musk also comes at a low point in US relations with China, as tensions over Taiwan and Xi Jinping's stance over Russia's invasion of Ukraine are threatening to boil over. Musk has made China a critical part of Tesla operations in recent years, seeing a big opportunity to sell electric vehicles to Chinese consumers. However, Tesla is facing increased pressure in China from growing domestic competition, Reuters reported. The billionaire, who has previously called himself a "free-speech absolutist," has not commented publicly about his trip to the country. Twitter is blocked in China. Musk did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Read the original article on Business Insider Elon Musk: Tesla boss on first China trip in over three years Elon Musk in a Tesla as he leaves a hotel in Beijing on Wednesday Tesla chief executive Elon Musk is in China, as he makes his first trip to the world's second largest economy in over three years. He arrived in Beijing on Tuesday and is also expected to visit Tesla's huge manufacturing plant in Shanghai. The multi-billionaire met China's foreign minister Qin Gang within hours of arriving in the country. Mr Musk has not yet publicly commented on the trip, which comes amid tensions between the US and China. He also declined to make any comments about his plans for the trip when asked by reporters as he left a hotel in Beijing on Wednesday. Later on Wednesday, Mr Musk met China's industry minister Jin Zhuanglong and discussed the development of electric vehicles. In a statement on Tuesday, China's foreign ministry said that Mr Musk was willing to expand the car maker's business in the country, which is Tesla's biggest market after the US. The ministry added that during the meeting Mr Musk had described the economies of the US and China as "conjoined twins". Tesla did not immediately respond to a BBC request for comment. Mr Musk has also been uncharacteristically quiet on Twitter, which he owns and where he has more than 141 million followers. He is known for tweeting many times a day but as of midday on Wednesday had not posted anything since arriving in the country on Tuesday afternoon. The social media platform is banned in China but it can be accessed through VPNs, or Virtual Private Networks. Mr Musk is the latest high-profile US executive to make a trip to China. JP Morgan chief executive Jamie Dimon is also in China this week, while Apple boss Tim Cook visited the country in March. However, as tensions rise between Washington and Beijing Tesla finds itself in a difficult position, Dan Ives from investment firm Wedbush Securities said. "Playing nice in the sandbox in Beijing is something Wall Street is laser focused on, to make sure there are no disruptions to Tesla's expansion within China for the coming years," Mr Ives added. Elon Musk's private jet at an airport in Beijing on Tuesday In January 2019, Tesla started building its so-called gigafactory in Shanghai, which was the firm's first manufacturing plant outside the US. Later that year, it delivered its first Chinese-made cars, marking a major milestone for the American company. However, Covid lockdowns across the country, including in the financial, manufacturing and shipping hub of Shanghai, made it increasingly difficult for manufacturers to operate. Last year, Mr Musk said the coronavirus lockdown of Shanghai was "very, very difficult" for Tesla, which reportedly halted most of its production at its gigafactory for several weeks. Operations have since resumed at the plant, which produced its millionth car in August, according to Mr Musk. This accounted for a third of Tesla's global production. Last month, the company said it planned to build a new factory in China to make its large-scale "Megapack" batteries. China has also become the largest market for Tesla's Model Y mass-market electric vehicle, according to market research firm JATO. More than 94,000 Model Y vehicles were sold in China in the first three months of this year, putting it ahead of the US and Europe, JATO data shows. In recent years, Tesla's lead in electric vehicle market has been challenged by increased competition from car making giants, including Ford and General Motors, as well as newer entrants into the market like China's BYD and Nio. Mr Musk - who bought Twitter last year for $44bn (35.5bn) - has been under pressure to find someone else to lead the company and refocus his attention on his other businesses, including Tesla and rocket firm SpaceX. Earlier this month, he named Linda Yaccarino, the former head of advertising at NBCUniversal as the platform's new chief executive. Ms Yaccarino will face the challenge of running a business that has struggled to be profitable, while facing intense scrutiny over how it handles misinformation and hate speech. Twitter is now worth around a third of what Mr Musk paid for it, according to financial services firm Fidelity Investments, which helped to finance his takeover of the company. Scott G Winterton, Deseret News A member of the Salt Lake City Council is stepping down from her role after she was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol earlier this month. Salt Lake City Councilwoman Amy Fowler announced Tuesday she is resigning from office, effective July 3. She explained in a statement that she wants her district to be "fully represented" over the next month, while the City Council finalizes its 2024 fiscal year budget. The council has until June 30 to finalize a budget before the upcoming fiscal year. "Thank you to the residents of District 7 for twice electing me to serve. It has been an honor," she added. Fowler was arrested on May 3. Utah Highway Patrol Sgt. Cameron Roden told KSL.com earlier this month that UHP troopers initially responded to a report of a hit-and-run crash on I-15 near 4800 South in Murray shortly after 9 a.m. A witness provided troopers with the license plate number of a vehicle that left the scene. Troopers were able to track down the information of the vehicle with that plate number and called the listed driver, who agreed to pull over to provide a statement. Troopers caught up with the driver, identified as Fowler, in Springville, and reported that they could smell alcohol on her breath, according to a police booking affidavit. Fowler was arrested after she failed field sobriety tests and submitted a breath test that showed a blood alcohol level of 0.111, more than twice the legal limit in Utah. She was charged with a class B misdemeanor in Springville Justice Court four days after the incident. Court records show that a pretrial conference will be held in the case on June 8. No charges had been filed in relation to the crash in Murray as of Tuesday. First elected in 2017 and reelected in 2021, Fowler apologized for the incident on May 9, but she also said she planned to remain in office. She has been absent from City Council meetings since she started a self-imposed suspension of activities at that time. She also stepped down as the vice chairwoman of the Redevelopment Agency of Salt Lake City. "I recognize that this incident may have caused a lack of trust and I will work hard to rebuild that trust," she said at the time. "It has sincerely been an eye-opening experience for me, and it's truly made me reflect on my relationship with alcohol and the decisions that I have made." The City Council in a statement late Tuesday expressed support for Fowler's decision to resign. "We know this was a difficult decision and we trust it was made with the best interests of District 7 constituents and her personal well-being at heart. We thank Amy for her years of dedicated service to our city and wish her the best in her future endeavors," council members said in the joint statement. The City Council pointed to Fowler's "notable accomplishments" since she took office including: work to help marginalized and unsheltered people access vital resources; advocacy for investments in affordable housing initiatives; help to provide menstrual products at all city facilities; and advocacy to expand the Salt Lake City Fire Department's Medical Response Team, which the council members say saved the city "millions of dollars." The council also said Fowler helped the city recover from the pandemic. As for the soon-to-be-vacant District 7 seat, which includes the city's Sugar House neighborhood, the council will have until Aug. 2 to appoint a replacement after Fowler leaves office on July 3, according to a spokesperson for the Salt Lake City Council. The replacement will fill the seat for a few months before an election is held in November to determine who will complete the final two years of Fowler's current term. The city's second, fourth and sixth council districts were already up for an election later this year, as is the mayor's seat. This story has been updated to include the name of the contractor performing the maintenance work in Kuwait at the APS location. WASHINGTON Equipment drawn from the U.S. Armys Kuwait-based pre-positioned stock bound for Ukraine was not ready for combat operations, the Pentagons inspector general has found. During the inspector generals audit of that pre-positioned stock area, the fifth of seven such locations around the world, we identified issues that resulted in unanticipated maintenance, repairs, and extended leadtimes to ensure the readiness of the military equipment selected to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the May 23 report stated. All six of the M777 howitzers and 25 of 29 M1167 High-Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles were not mission ready and required repairs before U.S. European Command could send the equipment to Ukraine. By January 2023, the U.S. government used its drawdown authority 30 times in total to provide $18.3 billion in equipment and ammunition to Ukraine, which is fighting a Russian invasion. Army pre-positioned stock, or APS, is meant to be kept at the highest level of readiness so that it can be used immediately in case of an emergency. The inspector general issued the report mid-audit out of concern that issues with poor maintenance and lax oversight of the [APS] equipment could result in future delays for equipment support provided to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the report read. In addition, if U.S. forces needed this equipment, they would have encountered the same challenges. The 401st Army Field Support Battalion in Kuwait is responsible for overseeing contractor maintenance work, which includes issuing equipment. Army Materiel Command confirmed the contractor conducting the work at the site is Amentum, which is based in Chantilly, Virginia. Hazardous howitzers Because the battalion did not ensure the contractor was meeting its maintenance requirements for approximately 19 months on M777 howitzers, an Army Materiel Command senior representative from Kuwait issued a request for assistance, bringing in a U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command mobile repair team from Anniston Army Depot, Alabama. When the team arrived at Camp Arifjan in March 2022, the contractor provided a howitzer that it said was fully mission capable. But the weapon system was not maintained according to the standard technical manual, per the mobile repair team, and would have killed somebody [the operator], in its current condition, the report stated. Ukrainian artillerymen fire an M777 howitzer toward Russian positions on Nov. 23, 2022. (Anatolii Stepanov/AFP via Getty Images) The team subsequently found that all six howitzers had operational issues. Four of the six howitzers had breech blocks improperly aligned with the rack gear, which prevented the breech from correctly locking. A breech not properly locked could result in an explosion that could kill the crew, the report noted. Additionally, all six howitzers contained reused, old hydraulic fluid, which is not allowed because the fluid degrades over time and could lead to disastrous results and malfunctions of critical systems, the inspector general found. The contractor paid the mobile repair team $114,000 for labor and travel expenses, according to the report. As the howitzers were being prepared to leave Kuwait for shipment to Europe on June 21, 2022, one of the howitzers experienced a brake fire, likely due to the contractor not releasing the parking brake when moving it, according to the report, which cited a specialist with the mobile repair team. The contractor claimed it was likely due to leaking brake fluid, the report noted. When the howitzers reached Poland for distribution to Ukraine, officials there said all six howitzers still had faults that made them non-mission capable, according to the report, including worn firing pins and issues with the firing mechanism. The repairs cost about $17,490 in labor and materials. Officials said they were able to avoid delays in getting the howitzers to Ukraine, but the inspector general noted in the report the inadequate maintenance on the howitzers highlights the need to consider the time it would take to maintain and repair equipment coming from the APS site in Kuwait for Ukraine. Tire troubles Prior to August 2022, the 401st declared 28 of 29 Humvees as fully mission capable, but when it received an order to pull those out for Ukraine on Aug. 24, only three of the 29 were ready, the inspector general said. Problems with the Humvees included dead batteries, inoperative lights, faulty gauges, damaged seat belts, broken door lock latches and fluid leaks, the report listed. In order to meet the deadline to ship the equipment to Europe, the contractor took parts from other Humvees in the inventory, including in one case a transmission, potentially making that equipment non-mission capable, the report noted. When the vehicles arrived in Poland, officials there reported one of the tires on a Humvee was shredded due to dry rot. When the tire was replaced with a spare, that one also failed due to dry rot, the report described. The officials in Poland opened up work orders to replace tires damaged with dry rot in September 2022. Additionally, the vehicles did not come with spare tires, the officials noted, causing concern they would cross the border and fail with no means to replace tires there. Tires were ultimately pulled from other equipment for the Humvees headed to Ukraine. The process delayed delivery to Ukraine and required significant labor and time, pulling soldiers away from primary duties, and cost $173,524 for labor and material, the report added. Getting back in fighting shape The head of Army Sustainment Command explained, in response to the report, that the services funding level for APS maintenance in Kuwait was 30% of the validated requirements in fiscal 2023 about $27.8 million of the $91.3 million requirement. And the commander stated the contractor is not contractually obligated or appropriately resourced to maintain [APS] equipment at standards laid out in the technical manual the inspector general followed to make determinations regarding mission-capable readiness of the equipment. The inspector general disagreed that the contractor was not obligated to follow the same technical manual used by the inspector general and also noted in the report that the Army obligated nearly $1 billion from Aug. 31, 2016, through April 13, 2023, for the APS location. The inspector general recommended in the report that the Armys deputy chief of staff or G-3/5/7, which is responsible for issuing what goes into APS consider the level of maintenance and leadtime required before selecting Army Prepositioned Stock [in Kuwait] equipment for sourcing Ukrainian Armed Forces. The commander of the 401st should also develop and implement increased inspection procedures to not only validate that the [APS] contractor has properly corrected known maintenance deficiencies but also to conduct a thorough visual inspection of equipment and correct any deficiencies including tires damaged by dry rot, before shipping the equipment to [U.S. European Command] for transfer to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) suggested in an interview Wednesday that former Vice President Mike Pence should announce he is jumping into the GOP presidential primary in the near future, saying sooner is better. Well, I would love to see him announce very soon, Ernst told NewsNations Blake Burman on The Hill on NewsNation. Pence is set to join most of the announced Republican presidential candidates at Ernsts annual Roast and Ride fundraising event Saturday in Des Moines, Iowa. I think he will be riding a motorcycle with us as well, Ernst said. Well kick off the day and do the motorcycle ride. Well end up at the State Fairgrounds and he will be taking the stage. He is beloved by many Iowans as well, so well see but sooner is better, she continued. Pence has been inching toward a presidential campaign announcement in recent weeks. Last week, CNN announced that he would take part in the networks Republican town hall in Iowa on June 7. The former vice president suggested in mid-April that his decision on 2024 would come in a matter of weeks, and not months. He also said last month that any serious candidate for the Republican nomination would need to enter the race by June. The crowded GOP primary field grew last week with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scotts formal entrances into the race. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is expected to announce his presidential campaign next week. Despite the growing field, former President Trump remains the leading Republican candidate in the polls. According to the RealClearPolitics polling average, Trump leads the GOP field with roughly 53 percent support, while DeSantis is in second place with about 22 percent support. Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and Pence are in third and fourth place with 4.4 percent and 3.8 percent support, respectively. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Eugene police say they have identified two South Eugene High School students involved in the four threats this month that resulted in evacuations and lockdowns. According to police, the students and their families are cooperating with the investigation by police and the FBI. The students are not in custody and have not been charged. Information will be turned over to the Lane County District Attorney's Office, which will determine whether they will face any charges. The students are juveniles, so neither their names nor ages are being publicly released. Eugene Police Department responds to a May 24 threat at South Eugene High School. What happened? Each of the four calls followed a similar pattern, calling into Central Lane 911 and saying that there was a bomb at the high school. The first three had an automated voice. The fourth call was slightly different, with a male-sounding voice, preceded by a call about a gun and then a call about a bomb. Each of the four threats of violence prompted officials to evacuate students or perform a lockdown, with classes being canceled for the day after the first two incidents. Eugene Police Chief Chris Skinner and Eugene School District Superintendent Andy Dey hold a press conference to discuss the identification of two suspects in the string of recent bomb threats at South Eugene High School. After a police search, no bomb or other danger was found after any of the threats. "Nonetheless, it's scary," Eugene Police Chief Chris Skinner said during a news conference Wednesday. "It's scary for staff. It's scary for students. It's scary for our community. So we take those things really, really serious." Eugene School District 4J Superintendent Andy Dey said the district has not yet considered whether these students will be suspended, expelled or face other punitive action. "We have to ensure that there is a safe environment at school," Dey said. "If there's anyone who is willfully, deliberately and repeatedly threatening the safe environment of a school, then we're going to take that very, very seriously. Consequences in school, I think are probably the least of these children's and families' concerns right now." What has the investigation found? According to police, investigators believe the two students used the internet to pay another person or entity to use threats of violence to shut down the school. The identity of the person paid is still under investigation, police said. "Investigators are confident all threats were a hoax and there are not any active threats to the school," according to a police news release. "These same threats have been occurring at schools throughout the country." Police said a 4J school official discovered an anonymous social media post on Instagram that offered to send threats for a fee. The official notified police. The Instagram post linked to Telegram, an encrypted chatting app that has been known to be used for coordinating illegal activity, according to police. Eugene Police requested the FBI's help in investigating the social media platform. "It's important for students to know that every time that you log on to the Internet, whether it's through sites that claim to keep you confidential or not, it's identifiable," Dey said. "It might take someone longer to find you, but it's not confidential. You do things that you're not supposed to do on the internet, and there is a trail of breadcrumbs and information bits leading back to you. So please don't think that you can get away with something like this." This all came together on Tuesday evening, according to Eugene Police. Eugene detectives and FBI agents served a search warrant that led to the seizure of multiple electronic devices. EPD and 4J were unable to confirm if this means an end to threat calls at South Eugene, but they are hopeful. Skinner said with the school year wrapping up, both entities will have a break this summer to gather themselves. This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: 'Mostly a hoax:' Police ID 2 students involved in South Eugene threats By Ju-min Park and Daewoung Kim SEOUL (Reuters) - Rare wailing air raid sirens and mobile phone alerts calling for evacuations rattled residents of the South Korean capital, Seoul, early on Wednesday after North Korea tried to launch what it said was a satellite. Nuclear-armed North Korea's sixth satellite launch ended in failure, with the booster and payload plunging into the sea, but not before prompting emergency alerts and evacuation warnings in parts of South Korea and Japan. "I was so panicked. Nine-one-one lines were busy and the internet was slow," said Lee Juyeon, 33, a resident in the densely populated city of about 10 million who has a 9-month-old child. "So without knowing what was really happening, I was about to head down to a basement wearing a wrap carrier with my baby." The sirens started in Seoul at 6:32 a.m. (2132 GMT Tuesday) as the city issued a "Presidential Alert" asking citizens to prepare for a potential evacuation. Then came a second mobile alert, at least 10 minutes later, as the interior ministry said the city's alert was sent in error. Lee did not evacuate after seeing a television headline saying the alerts related to a North Korean space vehicle flying farther south, but she showed photographs of friends packing bags, readying to leave. Although residents of Seoul are used to living in the shadow of threats from their nuclear-armed neighbour, an element of complacency has crept in among many in the city about the risks and how to respond. The two countries are still technically at war seven decades after the Korean War ended in an armistice. Some office workers in the Seoul's central district said they had considered during their commute how to respond to the alarm, such as by withdrawing cash or hoarding water. "I understand it was a mistake, but even if it has to be simple, that alert message should have said what went on and where to go," Kim Jong-hyun, 48, said on his way to work after dropping off his child at school. Later on Wednesday, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon apologised for confusion over the city's alert but defended the decision to send one as a precaution for public safety. He said the city would improve the wording in future messages and on warning systems. "Alerts" and "evacuation" were the most trending topics on Twitter in South Korea on Wednesday morning, with confused tweets scrambling to grasp what was going on or to find evacuation areas. "Hey guys, given Twitter is still working, I guess it is not a war," one user using the handle @Kimisnim__ said. (Reporting by Ju-min Park; Editing by Ed Davies, Lincoln Feast and Gerry Doyle) Health Canada made the decision to put labels directly on cigarettes after a 75-day public consultation period Canada will soon print warning labels directly on cigarettes in a world-first, the country's health agency announced. New packaging will feature a warning on each cigarette with phrases like: "Cigarettes cause cancer" and "Poison in every puff". The regulation will come into effect on 1 August, Health Canada said. It is part of an effort to reduce tobacco use in Canada to less than 5% by 2035. In an announcement on Wednesday, Health Canada said the new regulations "will make it virtually impossible to avoid health warnings" on tobacco products. The health agency anticipates that by April 2025, retailers in Canada will only carry tobacco products that feature the new warning labels directly on the cigarettes. Products that will have labels on tipping paper include individual cigarettes, little cigars, tubes and other tobacco products, Health Canada said. The move follows a 75-day public consultation period that was launched last year. Warning labels are already printed on cigarette package covers. Health Canada said it plans to expand on those by printing additional warning labels inside the packages themselves, and introducing a new external warning messages. In a statement, Canada's minister of mental health and addictions, Carolyn Bennett, said tobacco use kills around 48,000 Canadians each year. "We are taking action by being the first country in the world to label individual cigarettes with health warning messages," Ms Bennett said, calling the change a "bold step". The move was applauded by the Canadian Cancer Society, Canada's Heart and Stroke Foundation and the Canadian Lung Association, who said they hope the measures will deter people, especially youth, from taking up smoking. Cigarette smoking is widely regarded as a risk factor for lung cancer, heart disease and stroke. Canada has required the printing of warning labels on cigarette packages since 1989, though it was behind the UK, which printed warnings as early as 1971. The US was the first nation in the world to require health warnings on cigarette packages, passing its Federal Cigarette Labelling and Advertising Act in 1965. Labels in all three countries have evolved over the years, notably to include sometimes graphic images in addition to text to show the health consequences of smoking. Since the US introduced warning labels, the smoking rate has significantly decreased. Some studies, however, have found that labels are not a deterrent for people who have a high nicotine dependence. According to data from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 42% of US adults were smokers in the mid-1960s. In 2021, that number dropped to a historic low of 11%. However, electronic cigarette use appeared to have risen. In Canada, the rate of smokers aged 15 years or older is around 10%, according to a national 2021 Tobacco and Nicotine survey. Like the US, the survey revealed vaping rates to be higher at around 17%. Fundraiser Prytula greets Mariia and Oleksandr who donated money for his foundation in Kyiv Ex-comic sets sights on Ukraine reconstruction after helping fund war effort Fundraiser Prytula greets Mariia and Oleksandr who donated money for his foundation in Kyiv By Dan Peleschuk KYIV (Reuters) - From the purchase of surveillance drones and armoured vehicles to providing access to a satellite, fundraiser Serhiy Prytula has helped power Ukraine's army during Russia's invasion. Now the comedian-turned-politician's charitable foundation is setting its sights on the next big battle: post-war reconstruction. "Ukrainian civil society needs to be a part of rebuilding exactly because we can help our state, our government again," he told Reuters in an interview in English. Prytula, 41, led a campaign to acquire Turkish Bayraktar drones after Russia's full-scale invasion in February last year. The Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation then went on to purchase access to a Finnish-made satellite for around $17 million to take photos of Russian troops positions, including in occupied Crimea. The foundation also raised about $9.5 million for attack drones, which he said were ordered by Kyiv's military intelligence. Using social media campaigns in which Prytula features prominently, the foundation has since February 2022 filled more than 4,200 military orders worth around $119 million for supplies including medical kits and communications devices. Prytula failed to win a seat in parliament in 2019 and ran unsuccessfully for Kyiv mayor in 2020. But a recent opinion poll showed he is trusted by 65% of Ukrainians, second only to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy among politicians. NEXT CHALLENGE On a May afternoon, the foundation's Kyiv headquarters buzzed with activity as newly delivered drones were inventoried and Prytula posed for photos with visiting children. "Today we are an effective organisation, with a very precise structure and clearly stated responsibilities," said foundation director Anna Gvozdiar. "Every person, worker and volunteer knows what's expected of them." After the war, Prytula wants to apply his crowdfunding acumen to help rebuild war-damaged parts of Ukraine. The World Bank has estimated reconstruction will cost $411 billion. Prytula said his organisation would create an endowment with other Ukrainian groups considered to be reputable to fund smaller projects, such as local medical clinics, while the government prioritised larger-scale efforts. Gvozdiar said keeping troops supplied remained the priority for now. "The fact that all our attention is currently on the front line doesn't mean that the (northern) Sumy region, for instance, isn't still being shelled and that civilian buildings and infrastructure aren't being destroyed," she said. "All of this will need to be rebuilt, and after the war we'll begin measuring everything we've lost." (Additional reporting by Ivan Lyubysh-Kirdey and Sergiy Karazy; Editing by Timothy Heritage and Sharon Singleton) Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, talks with students at the students' farm of Beijing Yuying School in Beijing, capital of China, May 31, 2023. Xi on Wednesday visited Beijing Yuying School and extended festival greetings to children across the country ahead of International Children's Day, which falls on June 1. [Photo/Xinhua] Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday visited a school in Beijing ahead of International Children's Day, which falls on June 1. Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, stressed the all-round development of children in the new era, and extended festival greetings to children across the country. During his visit to Beijing Yuying School, Xi said children are the future of the country and the hope of the nation. He emphasized the importance of children's sound moral grounding, intellectual ability, physical vigor, aesthetic sensibility and work skills. Xi urged Chinese children in the new era to have high aspirations and dreams, enjoy studying and working, be grateful and friendly, and have the courage to innovate and strive. He expressed his hope that the students study with the goal of building a strong country and contributing to national rejuvenation, and meet the expectations of their parents, the Party and the people. 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, and Ding Xuexiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and vice premier, accompanied Xi on the visit. The school was established in 1948 in Xibaipo, a revolutionary base in north China's Hebei Province. At the school museum, Xi learned about the history of the school, how the school promoted reform and innovation in education and teaching methods, and how it implemented measures to ease the burdens of excessive homework and off-campus tutoring for students, or the "double reduction" policy, in recent years. Noting that the fundamental task of education is to foster virtue and nurture talent, Xi said the implementation of the "double reduction" policy is a process that requires sustained efforts, and it is important to guide parents, schools and society to better carry out the policy. Xi took a careful look at the campus on foot. On the basketball court, some students were playing basketball, and some were jumping ropes. Physical growth comes first for juveniles, said Xi, adding that sports and exercise are the most effective means to build up the physique of teenagers and children. Children are expected to grow stronger physically, rather than becoming chubby, said Xi. It is imperative to staff schools with sufficient and capable PE teachers, and families, schools and society should create conditions for teenagers and children to improve their physical fitness, said Xi. Visiting the students' farm on campus, where students of the school engaged in agricultural practice, Xi urged efforts to guide children to cultivate the awareness of manual labor and to develop the habit of working from an early age. Noting the lack of contact with rural areas and nature of some urban children, Xi told the students that learning about nature starts with learning about the plants around them. Xi expressed the hope for them to become aware of the hardship of farming and the difficulties facing farmers through the study of agriculture, and develop the good habits of loving physical labor, cherishing food and respecting nature from childhood. At a science classroom, Xi said that science experiment classes are an effective way to cultivate children's scientific ways of thinking, interest in exploring the unknown, and awareness of innovation. He expressed hope that the students will grow up to be outstanding scientists in the future and make contributions to the country's cause of achieving greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology. Xi then paid a visit to an office of fifth-grade teachers and had conversations with them. He emphasized that China's elementary education has its own advantages. He also underscored upholding cultural confidence, and noted that it is a must to make full use of our own advantageous methods while learning from foreign experience. That way, children can broaden their perspectives, nurture creative thinking, and embrace inclusivity toward new ideas, said Xi. Xi also encouraged all teachers to foster a high sense of morality. He stressed that respect for teachers should be fostered among the public and that the profession of teaching should be made a most revered and admired one in society. In a square of the school, Xi extended greetings to all children in the country and wished them a happy International Children's Day. He added that he was most pleased to witness the happiness and vigor of the students at the school. The CPC Central Committee has adopted a series of policies and measures to create a better environment for children's healthy development, Xi said. He expressed confidence in a happier life and a brighter future for children of all ethnic groups in China with the Party's leadership and the outstanding strength of the socialist system. He told the students that today's children will be the main force in the future to carry forward the cause of building a strong country and rejuvenating the Chinese nation. "To realize the goal of building China into a great modern socialist country in all respects by the middle of this century, my generation is working hard now, and in the future you should carry on our cause," he said. Xi also encouraged teachers across the country to achieve more in this noble profession. FILE PHOTO: Commercial vessels including vessels which are part of Black Sea grain deal wait to pass the Bosphorus strait off the shores of Yenikapi in Istanbul By Pavel Polityuk KYIV (Reuters) - The U.N. has proposed that Kyiv, Moscow and Ankara start preparatory work for the transit of Russian ammonia through Ukraine as it tries to salvage a deal allowing safe Black Sea grain exports, a source close to the talks said on Wednesday. As the preparatory work starts, the U.N. wants parallel talks to be held on widening the Black Sea deal that was agreed last July to include more Ukrainian ports and other cargoes, said the source, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity. Russia agreed this month to a two-month extension of the deal but has said the initiative will cease unless an agreement aimed at overcoming obstacles to Russian grain and fertiliser exports is fulfilled. Ukraine and Turkey have agreed to the new proposal, intended to improve operations in the Black Sea grain export corridor, but Russia has not yet responded, the source said. U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, asked about the Reuters report at a daily press briefing, said conversations were continuing. "As you recall, the Secretary General had put forward some ideas to the parties to improve the facilitation of the work of the Joint Coordination Centre, to also work on the issue of ammonia export, which is part of the deal that was signed. Those conversations and contacts are continuing. But that's as much as I'll say right now," Dujarric said. The U.N. and Turkey brokered the Black Sea Grain Initiative between Moscow and Kyiv last July to help tackle a global food crisis aggravated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a leading global grain exporter. APPEAL TO IMPROVE GRAIN CORRIDOR The U.N. has handed "an official appeal to the leaders of Ukraine, Turkey and Russia with a proposal for a specific mutually beneficial algorithm to radically improve" the work of the grain corridor, the source told Reuters. "Ukraine and Turkey have confirmed their readiness to work on the algorithm proposed by the Secretary General. At the same time, as of May 30, Russia has not given its consent, despite the presence of favourable positions in the algorithm." Ukrainian officials have said that since mid-April, Russia has "unreasonably restricted" the work of the Black Sea grain deal. Russia has denied this and urged all parties to unblock the transit of ammonia via the Ukrainian port of Pivdennyi, near the Black Sea port of Odesa, which was halted after Russia's invasion in February last year. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in his nightly video address, accused Russia of blocking all activity at Pivdennyi, with 1.5 million tonnes of agricultural products unable to move. Other countries, he said, should take note. "All maritime countries can now see what can threaten their ports, their coastlines if Russia gets away with blocking navigation in the Black Sea," Zelenskiy said. "In other words, the blockade of one port in Ukraine poses extremely serious risks for different nations, particularly those with relations that Russia tries to use for speculative purposes." Ukrainian authorities have said workers would need about 30 days to prepare the pipeline to pump ammonia again. Ukraine's deputy renovation minister said on Tuesday that Kyiv was seeking guarantees from Moscow and the U.N. that the grain deal will work normally if Ukraine allows Russia to export ammonia via the pipeline. A senior government source told Reuters this month that Kyiv would consider allowing Russian ammonia to transit its territory for export on condition that the Black Sea grain deal is expanded to include more Ukrainian ports and a wider range of commodities. (Reporting by Pavel Polityuk, Editing by Timothy Heritage, Kirsten Donovan, Ron Popeski and Diane Craft) Execution of Michael Tisius in MO halted by federal judge, who orders hearing on juror A federal judge has ordered a Missouri mans execution be halted until a hearing on a jurors literacy can be held. Michael Tisius, 42, was set to die by lethal injection on Tuesday, June 6. Late last month, his legal team made what they described as a startling discovery: One of the jurors was not able to read or write. According to Missouri law, a person is disqualified from serving on a jury if they are unable to read, speak and understand English. Keith OConnor, an attorney for Tisius, said the juror could not read the diagrams, letters or expert reports admitted into evidence. According to a declaration signed April 29, the man said a courthouse employee helped him fill out his juror questionnaire. The questionnaires were destroyed within a year of Tisius sentencing. The declaration was read to him by a witness because he cannot read. Tisius attorneys said they did not know if prosecutors were aware that the juror was unqualified. The issue was presented to the Missouri Supreme Court, which struck down the motion. Tisius attorneys then brought it to federal court. In an order Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough wrote that a brief stay of execution was warranted. Bough ordered an evidentiary hearing. The Missouri Attorney Generals Office has filed a notice of appeal. Tisius was 19 when he shot and killed Jason Acton and Leon Egley, two guards at the Randolph County jail, during a botched escape attempt in 2000. Several groups including the American Bar Association, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and the NAACP have called on Gov. Mike Parson to grant Tisius clemency. They cite Tisius remorse, his age and brain development at the time of the double homicide, and missteps by his attorney during sentencing. Expert explains why the West can't quickly ramp up weapons production Swedish Stridsvagn 122 tanks perform a task during the Aurora 23 exercise in Sweden, May 23 Regardless of the duration of the war in Ukraine, Western countries are focused on increasing the production of military equipment and armaments. This is because many NATO members in Europe have donated a significant part of their arsenals to Ukraine, no longer meeting the accepted NATO standards for armament, explained Stelzenmuller. Read also: EU Commission chief urges all countries to supply Ukraine with long-range weapons, security guarantees from NATO "So even if the war ends tomorrow, we still have large NATO obligations to fulfill," she said, speaking to NV on the sidelines of the Kyiv Security Forum. Ukraine's allies are interested in the quickest possible end to the war. However, according to Stelzenmuller, the likelihood of that happening in 2023 is less than 50%. This only underscores the need to address the shortage of defense and deterrence tools for Western states. Read also: US will continue to provide Ukraine with weapons despite attack on Moscow White House However, there are barriers to expanding the military-industrial complex (MIC). Specifically, the "just-in-time" approach, which has recently gained popularity among players in the global industry. It allows manufacturers to save on ordering and storing product inventories, flexibly adjusting their supplies depending on demand delivering them at the very moment they are needed. Read also: UK Defense Secretary in Kyiv to talk NATO and weapons The "just-in-time" philosophy has extended to not only consumer goods production but also armament manufacturing. The only difference, Stelzenmuller notes, is that producing more new iPhones is relatively easy, while producing new tanks is not. Moreover, the defense industry requires guarantees of orders to come. "So we realized that our [European], as well as the American, military industry is not capable of ramping up production so quickly," stated the expert. Read also: New strategic industries minister tasked with providing army with local weapons "And that is a shocking insight." 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 HIMARS The problem with F-16 (U.S. fourth-generation multirole fighter) is the following: these aircraft are extremely expensive to operate and maintain, he said. What you get for this huge amount of money spent on their operation and maintenance is too little, he said. The U.S.-made HIMARS artillery rocket system is equipped with GLRMS munitions which, he says, are as effective as the JDAM bombs of the F-16 fighter jets. Read also: Germany could add Eurofighter Typhoon to fighter coalition for Ukraine, says Reznikov One HIMARS system can drop (on enemy heads) ten times more such munitions per day than one F-16 aircraft, the expert said. Cooper also said he assumes that Ukraine may receive obsolete fighter jets. You get an F-16 fighter jet, train your aircrews, pilots, and ground staff for four to six months to operate them, but six months later all the F-16s fall apart because they were produced 40 years ago and have exhausted their lifespan, he said. You cant fly them anymore, its dangerous. Read also: Netherlands could become first country to transfer F-16s to Ukraine, after pilot training Bloomberg It would be better if Ukraine received aircraft like the Swedish-made fourth-generation fighter jet the Saab 39 Gripen, the U.S. strike fighter F-18 Hornet, or the U.S. F-35 Lightning II strike fighters, as they would be most effective in the fight against Russia, he said. The F-35 is the newest (stealth) fighter-bomber of the U.S. Ground Forces, the NATO Air Force, and the Israeli Air Force, the expert said. Anything less really wont be effective against Russia. Why? Because such aircraft can really penetrate through Russian air defense, fly into the disputed airspace, which is protected by Russian air defense, and operate in it. The F-16 wont be able to do that. Gripen wont be able to do that. (The fourth-generation pan-European fighter) Eurofighter Typhoon wont be able to do that either. 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 Photo: Robert Cianflone (Getty Images) Meta lashed out at its home state on Wednesday, threatening to shut off access to news links on Facebook and Instagram in California if the legislature passed a bill forcing it to pay news publishers for their journalism. The proposed bill, dubbed the California Journalism Preservation Act, would force social networks like Facebook and Instagram or search engines like Google to pay news publishers a journalism usage fee when users access articles and when they sell advertising against news content. New publishers, in turn, would be required to spend 70% of the funds they received from tech companies on paying journalists and news production. Meta, based in Menlo Park, California, vehemently opposes the bill and says lawmakers fundamentally misunderstand the relationship between social networks and publishers. Now, Metas threatening to pull the plug on news altogether if it passes, as it did in Australia. The move could leave Californias 39 million residents scrambling to find information. Read more If the Journalism Preservation Act passes, we will be forced to remove news from Facebook and Instagram rather than pay into a slush fund that primarily benefits big, out-of-state companies under the guise of aiding California publishers, the company said in a statement. Google did not immediately respond to Gizmodos request for comment. Meta statement on the California Journalism Preservation Act. pic.twitter.com/ssgk1vSryB Andy Stone (@andymstone) May 31, 2023 Meta takes issue with the idea that it and other social networking companies are uniquely responsible for the decimation of news outlets, especially local ones, over the past two decades. One in five US newspapers have shut down since 2004. The California News Publishers Association, meanwhile, estimates some 52% of California residents get their news from Facebook. Big tech critics cast part of the blame for that tectonic shift on social medias meteoric ascent around the same time. Meta disagrees and claims the journalism industry was struggling prior to Facebooks dominance in the 2010s. The bill fails to recognize that publishers and broadcasters put their content on our platforms themselves and that substantial consolidation in Californias local news industry came over 15 years ago, well before Facebook was widely used. Facebook users, Meta told Gizmodo, generally arent interested in news compared to other types of content. However, Facebook controls how often news links appear in users newsfeeds. The company has decreased the prevalence of those links in recent years. Meta also took issue with the CJPAs assumption that its advertising can be neatly tied to news links: Facebook advertisements are not linked to specific content being viewed but rather user characteristics. Ad revenue cannot be tied directly to journalism since content is substitutable. The bills lead sponsor, Oakland Democratic Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, pushed back against Metas threat in a statement sent to Gizmodo. This threat from Meta is a scare tactic that theyve tried to deploy, unsuccessfully, in every country thats attempted this, Assemblymember Wicks told Gizmodo. Its egregious that one of the wealthiest companies in the world would rather silence journalists than face regulation. How would Californias online journalism bill work? The California Journalism Preservation Act (CJPA), introduced by Oakland Democratic Assemblymember Buffy Wicks with support from the Californian News Publishers Association, would force tech companies to pay journalism usage fees when advertising is sold alongside local news articles appearing on a social network or search engine. The bill draws inspiration from similar federal legislation, though that bill died in Congress late last year. Both bills bear a striking resemblance to legislation in Canada and Australia, each of which Meta has vigorously opposed. All of these bills, in one way or another, are intended to serve as a form of digital reparations for news outlets crushed during the transition from print to digital media. The California bill advanced in the states Assembly Judiciary Committee earlier this month with a unanimous 9-0 vote. As news consumption has moved online, community news outlets have been downsized and closed at an alarming rate, Wicks recently told The California Globe. The dominant type platforms, both search engines and social networks, have such unrivaled market power that newsrooms are coerced to share the content they produce, which tech companies sell advertising against for almost no compensation in return. Wicks did not immediately respond to Gizmodos request for comment. Meta and Google have shown a willingness to go to the mat against legislation attempting to force them to pay for news. Both companies have said these bills mischaracterize their relationship with news publishers and ultimately amount to a link tax. Back in 2021, Meta followed through on threats to cut off news access in Australia. Its social networks briefly cut off news access for an estimated 17 million users, leaving essential services like hospitals and fire services caught in the crossfire. Meta eventually brought news back to the platform but only after lawmakers agreed to a watered-down version of the bill that would let Facebook and Google agree to deals before being forced to enter arbitration with publishers. Meta is now playing that same game of tech policy hardball with lawmakers in Canada over its proposed Online News Act. Big Tech firms arent the only ones opposed to the current legislation. Earlier this month, a group of local California newspapers organized under Free Press Action wrote a letter to lawmakers saying the bill, as currently written, would do more harm than good. The coalition, which includes the Times of San Diego and Alameda Post, fears the bill would make it more difficult to access trusted news and could incentivize clickbait articles. Civil liberties groups like the ACLU of California and the Electronic Frontier Foundation also oppose the CJPA. The CJPA would reward the worst kinds of journalism and make it harder for platforms to protect users and the public from the spread of hateful and deceitful content, resulting in an internet ecosystem where more hate speech, misinformation and sensationalist clickbait proliferates online, the Free Press Action letter reads. Update, 4:02 P.M. EST: Added statements from Assemblymember Wicks and Meta. More from Gizmodo Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Former U.S. Vice President Pence speaks at the Heritage Foundation By Moira Warburton WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence will launch his campaign for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination on June 7, three sources familiar with the plans told Reuters, setting him up for a battle with his ex-boss, former President Donald Trump. Here are key facts about Pence's life and career: BORN A CATHOLIC DEMOCRAT Pence, 63, was born into an Irish Catholic family of six children in Indiana. His older brother, Greg, is a Republican in the U.S. House of Representatives. In his youth, Pence was Democrat along with the rest of his family - he voted for Jimmy Carter in 1980 and considered John F. Kennedy to be a role model. However, in college he converted to evangelical Christianity, to his mother's disappointment, and was influenced by former President Ronald Reagan to join the Republican Party. "His ideals inspired me to leave the party of my youth and become a Republican like he did," Pence said of Reagan in 2016. Pence, who completed a bachelor of arts in history at Hanover College in Indiana and a law degree from Indiana UniversityPurdue University Indianapolis, worked as a lawyer and conservative talk show host before running for Congress in 2000. He met his wife, Karen, while in law school. They have three children. RELIGIOUS AND SOCIAL CONSERVATIVE Pence was first elected to the U.S. House in 2001 and quickly became known as one of its most conservative members. "I'm a Christian, a conservative and a Republican, in that order," Pence said when accepting the nomination for Trump's vice president. He has said he does not believe in evolution and has lamented that creationism - the theory that God created Earth and humans - is no longer taught in schools. RIFT WITH TRUMP Trump's choice of Pence for running mate in 2016 was widely seen as a move to solidify support among Christian conservatives. Their relationship remained steady throughout Trump's many scandals in office. Pence repeatedly defended Trump or simply stayed silent. That loyalty was not repaid as Trump targeted Pence in the lead-up to and during the riot at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, which was the breaking point in their relationship. "Mike Pence didn't have the courage to do what should have been done to protect our Country and our Constitution," Trump wrote on Twitter on the afternoon of Jan. 6, while rioters were calling for Pence to be hanged. "I think the times call for different leadership," Pence told NBC News in February, when asked whether Trump should be the next Republican presidential candidate. "I'm confident we'll have better choices than my old running mate." (Reporting by Moira Warburton in Washington; Editing by Alistair Bell) Fairy tale castle in Scotland can be yours for $37,000. But theres a pricey catch Fairy tales really can come true if you believe strongly enough and happen to have $37,000 with a little extra stored away for a rainy day. Okay, maybe a lot extra. Exterior Exciting opportunity for a philanthropic individual or organization to secure the future of Brough Lodge, an historic Grade A Listed property set in around 40 acres in an idyllic coastal position on the island of Fetlar, which lies off the east coast of Mainland Shetland, the listing on RightMove.co.uk describes. Exterior The listing says its accepting offers of about $37,000, and though that seems like a dream, a new owner must walk in with both eyes wide open since its going to cost a great deal for the property to be renovated. View The house was last occupied in the 1970s, and remained largely untouched until Brough Lodge Trust was formed in 1997 with the aim of restoring the property, the listing says. Work was undertaken to conserve the building. In particular, extensive repairs were carried out between 2011 and 2014, which included replacing much of the roof structure and making the building wind and watertight. However, it still needs major internal restoration. Castle grounds The propertys trust says it estimates millions would have to go into the property to update it completely almost $15 million, BBC reported. Castle grounds The Brough Lodge Trust has given careful consideration to the most appropriate means of conserving the lodge and its ancillary buildings. The focus has been on identifying a viable use for this distinctive building, the listing says. Castle grounds The Trust concluded that the property is best suited to the development of a world-class retreat that will delight all who visit it. Massive window The buildings historic character would be fully respected. New accommodation, sensitive to its setting, would offer up to 24 double bedrooms and other essential facilities, including an elevated dining room. Interior The castle sits on the island of Fetlar, which lies off the east coast of the island of Yell towards the northern end of Shetland, the listing says. The island is home to about 70 people and is roughly 405 miles northeast of Edinburgh. Gutted home is being sold as is in Arizona but why is it listed for millions? Photograph: AP The family of an 11-year-old boy who was shot and seriously injured by a police officer in Mississippi is filing a federal lawsuit against police and city authorities. A police officer responding to a 911 call shot Aderrien Murry on 20 May in the city of Indianola, causing the child to suffer a collapsed lung, fractured ribs and a lacerated liver. The boy was released from hospital last Wednesday. Greg Capers, the officer who shot Aderrien, was placed on paid leave pending an investigation by the Mississippi bureau of investigation. The family lawsuit alleges police were negligent and used excessive force when responding to a call about a domestic disturbance at the home of Aderrien and his mother, after her former partner turned up at the property. If I had not been informed about the case I would not have believed that this could be possible. A trained officer shooting an unarmed 11-year-old? Carlos Moore, the attorney representing the family, told CNN. For him to do this, to shoot a boy that obeyed his commands, he came out with his hands up, and get shot in the chest? Unheard of. Aderrien said that he exited the house with hands in the air after the police were informed no one there had a gun. I just tried to follow the police commands but I guess that didnt work, he told CNN. The boy sang the gospel song No Weapon Formed Against Me Shall Prosper in the moments after he was shot and started bleeding from his mouth, he told the network. Sometimes, I can see myself laying inside the coffin. Those are my thoughts at night, my only ones, Aderrien said. Sometimes I think people are watching me. But my main thought is me dead, inside the coffin. Aderrien said he suffers from pain, has trouble breathing and is not able to run or jump. Police have not provided any further details on the incident. The family is seeking $5m in damages. Research has shown that Black children in the US are six times more likely to be shot to death by police than their white peers. Police have killed more than 100 children in the US since 2015, according to data compiled by the Washington Post. Timothy Bliefnick, the former "Family Feud" contestant charged with climbing through a second-floor window at his estranged wife's home and shooting her to death in February, declined to testify in his own defense at trial Wednesday. Lawyers for both sides delivered their closing arguments Wednesday morning before Judge Robert Adrian gave jurors their instructions for deliberation. Bliefnick was arrested on March 13, almost two weeks after police served a search warrant at his home about a mile from the crime scene in Quincy, Illinois. Prosecutor Josh Jones tore into the defense's theory that a "prowler" in the neighborhood was responsible for the crime. FAMILY FEUD MURDER TRIAL: BULLET CASINGS IN HUSBAND'S BASEMENT MATCH THOSE AT CRIME SCENE, TESTIMONY REVEALS Rebecca Bliefnick, a 41-year-old nurse and mother of three from Quincy, Illinois, was found shot to death in her home on Feb. 23, 2023. "The prowler is right here," he said, pointing at the defendant. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP He argued that Bliefnick's search history, physical evidence and circumstantial evidence all point to the suspect's guilt. The prosecution's closing arguments were "dripping with sympathy" and "lacking in any hard evidence," said Bliefnick's lawyer, Casey Schnack. The Adams County Jail released this booking photo of Timothy Bliefnick before he made his first court appearance after Quincy, Illinois, police arrested him in connection with the shooting death of estranged wife Rebecca Bliefnick. "The state has come up woefully short in their quest to prove Tim guilty beyond a reasonable doubt," she told the jurors, citing a lack of concrete DNA evidence and surveillance video that she argued only showed an unidentifiable person in the area. FAMILY FEUD MURDER: BECKY BLIEFNICK TOLD SISTER ESTRANGED HUSBAND SHOULD BE NO 1 SUSPECT IF SHE WERE HURT The local WGEM-TV and Muddy River News have provided video of the proceedings throughout the trial. Rebecca Bliefnick is shown with her family on Halloween in 2018. Police said she was found shot to death in her Quincy, Illinois, home on Feb. 23, 2023. Family members found Rebecca "Becky" Postle Bliefnick dead in her home on Feb. 23. She had been shot 14 times, prosecutors later revealed. The couple had been going through a bitterly contested divorce and a custody battle for their three sons. Witnesses for the prosecution delivered potentially damning testimony throughout the trial. The defense didn't call any. The home of Rebecca Bliefnick in Quincy, Illinois, is seen on March 1, 2023. Bliefnick, a mother of three, was found shot to death in her home on Feb. 23, 2023. BECKY BLIEFNICK MURDER: ILLINOIS POLICE ARREST ESTRANGED HUSBAND IN NURSE'S SHOOTING DEATH Postle Bliefnick's sister testified last week that she received a text message that read, "If something ever happens to me, make sure the No. 1 person of interest is Tim." "I am putting this in writing that I'm fearful he will somehow harm me, come after me, or will try to [do] something to me that takes me away from the kids or the kids away from me," Postle Bliefnick texted her sister, Sarah Reilly, according to the latter's testimony. "He already has lied multiple times to paint himself as a victim and me as the perpetrator when it is absolutely the other way around." SLAIN ILLINOIS NURSE BECKY BLIEFNICK LAID TO REST And according to Vickie Reels, a forensics expert with the Illinois State Police, eight shell casings found at the crime scene were fired from the same gun as 27 recovered from the basement of Postle Bliefnick's estranged husband. Police did not find the murder weapon, however. Prosecutors also alleged that Tim Bliefnick had conducted incriminating Google searches on how to break into a home with a crowbar and how to clean up gunshot residue. Tim Bliefnick is seen at his home on the day of Rebecca Bliefnicks funeral on March 3, 2023, in Quincy, Illinois. Postle Bliefnick's family said in a statement that relatives would not be commenting until after the jury reaches a verdict . The family has established a GoFundMe campaign to provide for the former couple's three sons. Postle Bliefnick was a fixture in the local community throughout her life, according to an online obituary. She graduated valedictorian from Quincy Notre Dame High School and went on to Quincy University. She began her career in pharmaceuticals but finished nursing school in time for the start of the coronavirus pandemic. As a nurse, she received a Daisy Award for her service to patients. Fan says shes suffering from post-concert amnesia after seeing Taylor Swift at Gillette Stadium Fan says shes suffering from post-concert amnesia after seeing Taylor Swift at Gillette Stadium Taylor Swift fans trying to relive the memories of the Eras Tour shows they attended have been dumbfounded by the blank space in their minds. Jenna Tocatlian, 25, of New York, saw Swift perform at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro in May, but she cant seem to remember the specifics of what she witnessed. Post-concert amnesia is real, Tocatlian said in an interview with Time. If I didnt have the 5-minute video that my friend kindly took of me jamming to it, I probably would have told everyone that it didnt happen. Taylor Swift reunites with 10-year-old fan during Massachusetts concert Tocatlian told the news outlet that she started trying to recall the show as she waited in line to exit the stadium, asking her friends, Did she really play that? How much of it did she play? So whats behind this peculiar happening? Tocatlian blamed it on sensory overload and the great deal of anticipation that she felt in the lead-up to the show. Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Taylor takeover: Boston 25 viewers show their Swiftie Spirit during weekend concerts at Gillette Its hard to put together what you actually witness, she told Time. Youre having all these emotions while your favorite songs are playing, and youre like, Wow, where am I? There is a giant Redditt thread dedicated to concertgoers who have shared similar stories of post-concert amnesia. Swifties showed up in the rain ready to Shake it Off for night two of Eras Tour at Gillette Anyone else experiencing this? I waited half a year for this moment and now that its over my brain seems to be trying to convince me I wasnt there?!, one user wrote of her Swift experience. In an effort to get to the bottom of what these Swifites are dealing with, Time spoke with Ewan McNay, an associate professor in the Department of Psychology at the State University of New York at Albany. This is not a concert-specific phenomenonit can happen any time youre in a highly emotional state, McNay told the news outlet. If youre slightly on edge, with a little bit of excitement, youll actually remember better...But too much excitement pushes you over the edge in terms of memory formation, and youre unable to make memories. Hundreds of thousands of Swifties have attended Taylors stadium shows in recent weeks. Swift fans dressed in honor of her different albums, each one with its unique theme for Eras Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW UN chief calls for removing "scourge of racism" Xinhua) 09:17, May 31, 2023 UNITED NATIONS, May 30 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday urged the international community to take actions to remove the scourge of racism. Addressing a UN forum for people of African descent, Guterres said that the African diaspora has enriched societies in every corner of the world and contributed enormously to every field of human endeavor. "And yet, we are also painfully aware that people of African descent continue to confront entrenched racism and systemic discrimination," he said in a video message to the second session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent. The long shadow of centuries of enslavement and colonial exploitation still blights the present. It is past time to recognize and repair longstanding wrongs, said Guterres. "We must act with greater urgency to rid our societies of the scourge of racism, and ensure the full political, economic and social inclusion of people of African descent as equal citizens, without discrimination," he said. The Permanent Forum on People of African Descent was established in 2021 by the UN General Assembly as a consultative mechanism for people of African descent. The second session of the forum, held at the UN headquarters in New York, runs from May 30 to June 2. The establishment of the forum crystalized the commitment of the international community to accelerate along the path towards full equality and justice for people of African descent everywhere, Guterres said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday slammed Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities for pushing a so-called trade initiative with the United States and yielding to its undue demand. Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, made the comments at a press conference in response to the news that the United States is about to sign the first batch of agreements with the Taiwan region of China under the "U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade." China firmly opposes countries that have diplomatic relations with it negotiating with Taiwan any agreement featuring sovereignty implications or official nature, said Zhu. The so-called initiative is unequal and nothing but a political deal under the guise of economy and trade. The results claimed by the DPP authorities are at the cost of the interests of enterprises and the public on the island, as well as the core industrial edge and overall economic competitiveness of Taiwan, said Zhu. CAMBRIDGE Troopers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol Cambridge Post are investigating a fatal crash that involved a single vehicle. On May 31, at approximately 5:58 a.m. Cambridge Troopers were notified of the crash which occurred on U.S. 40 near milepost 10 in Guernsey County. Troopers on the scene determined that a red 2014 Jeep Compass, operated by 20-year-old Daniel Parks of Cambridge, had been traveling westbound. The Jeep traveled across the centerline and off the left side of the roadway before going airborne, side-swiping a utility pole, and overturning multiple times. Parks was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash remains under investigation. The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on the scene by the Ohio Department of Transportation, Guernsey County Sheriffs Office, Cambridge Fire Department, United Ambulance Service, Guernsey County Coroners Office, Bills Towing, and American Electric Power. Submitted by the Ohio State Highway Patrol This article originally appeared on The Daily Jeffersonian: Fatal crash on Route 40 Father of Parkland victim reveals son was at beach day of Hollywood beach shooting A father whose daughter was murdered in the Parkland school shooting revealed that his son was at the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk just hours before a mass shooting occurred on Monday. Fred Guttenberg, a gun safety advocate, tweeted on Tuesday (30 May) that his son, Jesse, was at the beach where the shooting injured nine people. This shooting happened yesterday in FL, Mr Guttenberg tweeted with a link to an article about the shooting. My son was on this beach earlier that day. He added that his sons friend works at a restaurant at the Hollywood Broadwalk. Mr Guttenbergs 14-year-old daughter Jaime Guttenberg was one of the 17 victims of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in 2018. Since Jaime was killed in the shooting, Mr Guttenberg has become a strong advocate for gun safety, speaking in front of the US Senate and meeting with lawmakers to encourage them to strengthen gun control policies. While FL bans books and drag shows, threats to our life and liberty continue, Mr Guttenberg wrote. The Hollywood beach shooting left nine people injured, including four children ranging from one to 17 years old. According to police, the shooting erupted just before 7pm local time on Memorial Day after a dispute between two groups escalated. The mayor of Hollywood, Florida, called the gunfire reckless. Many people took to social media to blame Florida lawmakers like Governor Ron DeSantis for failing to act on gun control. Mr DeSantis signed a bill in April that will allow Florida residents to carry firearms without a permit, loosening concealed carry restrictions. Though the bill does not go into effect until 1 July, Mr Guttenberg still indicated that firearms and a lack of gun control were to blame for the shooting despite many gun activists disputing this. Stop listening to the liars! Mr Guttenberg wrote. This shooting happened yesterday in Fl. My son was on this beach earlier that day. His friend works at a restaurant there. While Fl bans books and drag shows, threats to our life and liberty continue. STOP LISTENING TO THE LIARS!!!#AmericanCarnagehttps://t.co/QT1HM9UIBK Fred Guttenberg (@fred_guttenberg) May 30, 2023 On Twitter, several people responded to Mr Guttenberg. This must have been gut-wrenching, Fred, with your son being close to another shooting. I truly hope you and your family will find peace. I could not live with this rampant guns over lives. This is an anathema for Australians [sic], a Twitter user wrote. To lose one child in a shooting and then have another at the site of one? I would lose my everloving mind, another tweeted. The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk shooting is one of over 260 to occur in the US this year, according to Gun Violence Archive. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday approved Pfizers vaccine to prevent the respiratory disease RSV in older adults, the company announced. After decades without any RSV shots, the market is suddenly very competitive. The approval of Pfizers Abrysvo marks the second authorized RSV shot for older adults in the U.S. this month, after GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) won approval for its rival shot, Arexvy. The agency is also considering Pfizers maternal RSV vaccine, intended to be given to pregnant individuals to help protect against RSV in infants. A monoclonal antibody treatment from Sanofi and AstraZeneca is also under review. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will still need to sign off on any shot or treatment before it can reach the public. The agencys independent advisory panel will meet twice next month to make recommendations for Pfizer and GSK. RSV circulation is seasonal, typically starting during fall and peaking in winter. The vaccine is expected to be available before the start of next RSV season. In healthy adults and older children, RSV typically causes mild, coldlike symptoms that go away with moderate rest and self-care. But older adults, including those with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and chronic heart and lung disease, are at increased risk of severe RSV illness and drive the majority of RSV hospitalizations. RSV causes between 60,000 and 160,000 hospitalizations annually for adults older than 65 in the U.S. and 6,000 to 13,000 deaths, according to federal statistics. It was a key driver in the winters tripledemic of COVID-19, flu and RSV that hit young children especially hard, resulting in overwhelmed hospitals. A vaccine to help prevent RSV had been an elusive public health goal for more than half a century, said Annaliesa Anderson, Pfizers chief scientific officer for vaccine research and development. Todays approval is a monumental step forward in delivering on Pfizers commitment to help alleviate the significant burden of RSV in higher-risk populations. In August, Pfizer announced the vaccine was more than 85 percent effective in preventing severe lower respiratory tract illness in older adults. In March, some FDA advisers raised concerns about the vaccines safety, particularly about its potential association with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare neurological disorder. Pfizer said the reaction could have been due to other issues, but FDA flagged it as an important potential risk that would need to be closely tracked and studied further if the vaccine was approved. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A federal judge ruled in favor of the Brevard County School Board and two school employees in a $100 million lawsuit filed by the family of a student with Down syndrome whose teachers tied a mask to her face during a school mask mandate in 2021. However, the ruling, which came Friday, leaves open the door for new legal action, which the family has hinted it would pursue. The October 2021 incident captured national headlines after then 7-year-old Sophia Bezerra, a special needs student at Ocean Breeze Elementary in Indian Harbour Beach, came home from school with a mask tied around her head with a shoestring-like cord. Previous: Family of 'Sofia' files $100m federal lawsuit against teachers, Brevard School Board Her teachers later told investigators they had been using the cord, threaded through the mask's ear loops and tied in a bow behind the girl's head, because the mask would continually slip off her ears in class. A police investigation found no evidence she was ever restrained or in distress and that the method used to secure the mask was recommended by a Down syndrome advocacy group. Parent Jeffrey Steel spoke about his 7-year-old daughter Sofia, who has Down syndrome, at an October 2021 press conference in Titusville with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Steel said Sofia came home Oct. 7 from school with a mask tied to her face. Attorneys for the family filed the federal suit in December 2021, accusing her teachers of child abuse and the School Board of negligence and violating her civil rights. Former Superintendent Mark Mullins and the three Board members who voted for the mask mandate Jennifer Jenkins and former board members Misty Belford and Cheryl McDougall also were named. The suit came after separate investigations by Brevard Public Schools and the Indian Harbour Beach police, along with a review by the Office of State Attorney Phil Archer, all found the allegations of abuse were unfounded. U.S. District Judge Carlos Mendoza on Friday canceled a trial scheduled in the case and awarded 12 of 15 counts to the defendants; the remaining three counts were dismissed "without prejudice" legal speak meaning they can be refiled at a later time. Doubt: Expert opinion raises doubt on key aspect of student mask-tying controversy His reasoning was unclear Tuesday, as the order containing the judgements remained under seal. Several motions throughout the case were sealed by the court because they contained confidential medical information. A docket summary of the order noted the court found the girl's teachers "did not have a deliberate intent" to cause harm. But while the federal case has been closed, the ruling means some parts of the case could be tried again, possibly in a different court. Demonstrators called attention to a case of Sofia, a 7-year-old student with Down syndrome who came home from school with a mask tied to her face, at the Oct, 26, 2021, Brevard County School Board meeting in Viera. Attorneys for the family did not respond to messages, but there are signs they aren't ready to drop the case. Sofia's stepfather wrote in a May 15 blog post that several complaints had been "wrongly dismissed." He made an apparent reference to the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision, Perez v. Sturgis Public Schools, in which a Michigan student with disabilities ultimately triumphed despite losses in lower courts. "We pray that several complaints that we feel were wrongly dismissed due to an administrative concern will be returned to us, much like the Perez family found an unlikely savior in the US Supreme Court (a 9-0 ruling)," Jeffrey Steel wrote on the crowdfunding site GiveSendGo, which the family used to fund the court case. Exposed: Parents of girl with Down Syndrome in mask-tying case made false statements, staged photos, police say Jenkins, who also faced a defamation complaint in the suit after criticizing Steel's account of the incident on Facebook, said there were "no winners" in the case. "An innocent child was thrusted into political warfare at their expense," Jenkins wrote in a statement to FLORIDA TODAY. "I am thankful for the court's thorough and comprehensive review of the merits of this case." A screen grab from an informational handout on masks and Down syndrome children by the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation, which Sofia's teachers referenced in their decision to tie her mask with a cord. The handout supported mask adaptations to enhance comfort and fit, including using hair clips and shoe laces to secure a mask behind the head Belford declined to comment for this story, citing the possibility of further litigation. McDougall and a spokesman for Brevard Public Schools did not immediately return requests for comment, and Mullins could not be reached before the publication of this story. The case became political fodder during statewide debates over school mask mandates and was referenced at one point by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. The Brevard School Board was one of 12 school districts that defied DeSantis' executive ban on mask mandates during the 2021-22 school year. 'Disturbing': State Attorney backs police in 'Sofia' case, calls social media attacks 'disturbing' It also received special attention from State Rep. Randy Fine, who used the incident to hammer the School Board on the House floor, and Jenkins in particular, with whom Fine has had a longstanding feud. Fine declined to comment for this story. Steel, who parlayed national news network appearances into over $100,000 in donations to fund the family's legal fight, drew controversy when aspects of his story were contradicted by details revealed in the police investigation. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis appeared at an Oct. 20, 2021, press conference in Titusville to decry the mask mandates that flouted his emergency order. In the background (second from left) is Jeffrey Steel, the stepfather of a Brevard special needs student whose mask was tied to her face with a nylon cord. Widely circulated photographs of the tied mask were found to have been staged by Steel and his wife days after the fact, and it was learned the family had never requested a medical mask exemption for Sofia, which the school's mandate allowed. Steel, who according to police reports referred to masks as "Chinese passports," said he didn't know the school was masking Sofia. Her teachers told police they had sent home notes with each student informing parents their children would be wearing masks in accordance with the mandate, according to the police report. Eric Rogers is a watchdog reporter for FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Rogers at 321-242-3717 or esrogers@floridatoday.com. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Judge ends $100m suit over Brevard mask-tying of special needs student The Alameda County, California, law enforcement community was rocked by two scandals that brought criminal charges against three of its officers last week. A probation officer was accused of sexually abusing an underage inmate at a juvenile facility years ago, and two sheriff's deputies were accused of covering up a 2021 suicide at a county jail, according to criminal charges filed Friday. The alleged inmate suicide cover-up happened in the same jail where an inmate died last month from drinking "a profuse amount of water," the county sheriff's office said. The probation officer, 50-year-old Nicole Perales, was in a "position of trust" when she allegedly had oral sex with a 15-year-old inmate between Aug. 27, 2004 and Aug. 26, 2005, according to Alameda County District Attorney's Office. CALIFORNIA PRISONER DIES IN CUSTODY AFTER DRINKING TOO MUCH WATER Alameda County DA Pamela Price marches alongside supporters at a rally outside the Alameda County Courthouse, April 23, 2023. The top prosecutor filed several felony criminal charges against the 20-year veteran of the probation department, who could spend nearly four years in jail and be required to register as a sex offender if she's convicted. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP The DA also charged two Alameda County Sheriff's deputies Sheri Baughman, 49, and Amanda Bracamontes, 30 with allegedly falsifying records to cover up their alleged negligence in Vinetta Martin's apparent suicide in the Santa Rita Jail in 2021. CALIFORNIA SHERIFF TORCHES NEWSOM FOR LEAVING PRISON SYSTEM IN 'DISARRAY,' PLANNING TO LET MURDERERS WALK FREE Both deputies are accused of doctoring logbooks to make it appear they followed procedure of direct visual observation of a suicidal inmate after Martin, 32, told jail staff she was planning to kill herself three weeks before her death. On April 3, 2021, Martin was found "unconscious and slumped on the floor" of her jail cell, Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price said in a statement Friday announcing the charges. Pamela Price, a candidate for Alameda County District Attorney, talks to the Chronicle editorial board May 23, 2018, in San Francisco. The logbooks didn't line up with the video evidence, which allegedly showed the deputies "repeatedly" failing to check on Martin for "extended periods," as long as one hour and 47 minutes, the district attorney said. They were supposed to have visual contact every 30 minutes, according to the DA. CALIFORNIA MEN ACCUSED OF COMMITTING RAPES, MURDER AFTER BEING RELEASED ON BAIL Martin was originally charged with assault and had been in custody since July 2020 and was awaiting evaluation and transfer to the Department of State Hospitals-Napa, according to court records. The court declared a doubt about whether she was competent to stand trial and suspended the criminal proceedings. The Alameda County Jail in California. Alameda County Sheriff Yesenia Sanchez said in a statement after the charges were announced Friday that this is "obviously a difficult day for many reasons." "Any life lost at the Santa Rita Jail is one too many," Sanchez said. "Deputies Bracamontes and Baughman are entitled to due process as is the case for anyone else in the community. HORRIFIC VIDEO SHOWS MOB OF CALIFORNIA TEENS ALLEGEDLY BEATING MARINES "The Alameda County Sheriffs Office has cooperated with District Attorney Prices office in this investigation and will continue to do so going forward." The felony charges against the three county officers were filed by the Alameda County Public Accountability Unit, which Price created in January under the umbrella of the Civil Rights Bureau. Supporters gather outside the Alameda County Courthouse for a rally for Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Rice April 23, 2023. The Santa Rita Jail was mired in controversy April 27, when an unidentified 26-year-old inmate died. And the Alameda County Sheriff's Office said in a statement to FOX 2 San Francisco that the prisoner drank a "profuse amount of water" and was vomiting the morning of his death. Due to the vomiting, the prisoner was taken to a medical outpatient housing unit. He told staff during his intake that he used a controlled substance the day before his arrest. CALIFORNIA TEENS ON BEACH, FIGHT BREAKS OUT A deputy checked on him at 3:25 p.m. and found that the inmate was unresponsive. Despite lifesaving efforts by paramedics, he was pronounced dead at 4:05 p.m. "Despite his admitted drug use, there was no cause for concern found during the medical and mental health intake process," the Alameda County Sheriff's Office said in previous statements. Jasper Wu supporters protested against Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price. Meanwhile, Price has been fending off her own critics and battling protesters, who claim she's too soft on crime, especially after the murder of toddler Jasper Wu, who was killed in the crossfire of a gang shooting on a public highway. LOS ANGELES MAN WHO AVOIDED PRISON FOR NEAR-FATAL STABBING NOW CHARGED WITH NEIGHBOR'S MURDER Critics claim Price was looking into a way to punish the suspects without prison time. Price responded by saying in a video released in April, "We have not made any decisions about what charges to pursue or what not to pursue. We are still reviewing the case." WATCH FULL VIDEO Earlier this month, Danielle Hilton, a 26-year veteran of the Alameda County DA's Office, resigned and ripped Price in her resignation letter posted on Twitter. "Victims deserve better," Hilton wrote. "Under your leadership, the focus of the District Attorney's Office has been taken away from advocating for victims who have been devastated by violent crimes. Under your management, I do not feel I can ethically and adequately carry out my duties as a prosecutor." READ FULL RESIGNATION LETTER Danielle Hilton, who worked in the district attorney's office in Alameda County, Calif., for 26 years, wrote this resignation letter. Price's critics started an online petition calling for her recall, which garnered over 14,000 signatures as of mid-April. Price and her supporters battled back and held a rally on the steps of the Alameda County courthouse. A fertility doctor accused of impregnating patients with his sperm died in a plane crash when the hand-built aircraft fell apart in mid-air The lawsuit was filed against Dr. Morris Wortman of Rochester, New York. Jackyenjoyphotography/Getty Images A doctor accused of impregnating his patients with his own sperm died in a plane crash Sunday. The hand-built aircraft fell apart mid-flight, the county sheriff said. The aircraft was reportedly built by the pilot of the flight, who also died in the Sunday crash. A New York fertility doctor accused of impregnating his patients with his own sperm died in a plane crash over the weekend when the hand-built aircraft he was riding in fell apart mid-air, officials said. Dr. Morris Wortman, 72, was one of two men killed in an experimental aircraft crash in Yates, New York, Sunday, Orleans County Sheriff Christopher Bourke said in a press release obtained by Insider. The pilot, Earl Luce Jr., was also killed in the crash, Bourke said. The plane was identified as a Wittman W-5 Buttercup, the National Transportation Safety Board told Insider. The small plane only fits two riders. The New York Post reported that Luce built the plane. A website that appears to belong to Luce details his experience building replicas of this model of plane. Bourke said in the news release Monday that "the wings of the aircraft became detached from the fuselage and fell to the ground in an orchard." The plane, without the wings, flew another 1,000-to-1,5000 yards west before crashing, Bourke said. The NTSB said it opened an investigation into the crash that will look into the site of the incident and obtain witness statements and surveillance video if available, in addition to collecting flight data and communications with air traffic control. A preliminary report is expected as soon as two-to-three weeks, the NTSB said. In September 2021, a 35-year-old woman who said she was Wortman's biological daughter accused Wortman of using his own sperm to impregnate her mother a woman she said Wortman treated in the 1980s without her consent at his Rochester fertility clinic, the Center for Menstrual Disorders, AP reported at the time. According to the lawsuit, the woman alleged Wortman told her family that the sperm donor was a medical student from the University of Rochester. According to AP, the woman took a genetic test in 2016 that linked her to at least nine half-siblings who were children of the same sperm donor. The woman accused Wortman and his clinic of medical malpractice, battery, infliction of emotional distress, negligence, fraud, and lack of informed consent. Since the woman filed her lawsuit, several people have accused Wortman of using his own sperm to inseminate patients in the 1980s, the Democrat and Chronicle reported. Read the original article on Insider Filipino mermaids and mermen flock to cinemas to watch 'The Little Mermaid' [Source] A group of mermaids and mermen in the Philippines gathered on land to watch the live-action remake of "The Little Mermaid." The Mermaids PH community, consisting of mermaid enthusiasts, hobbyists and professionals, donned their vibrant mermaid costumes on Sunday to witness the highly anticipated return of Ariel, portrayed by Halle Bailey, to the big screen. The group, which is also known for advocating body positivity and marine conservation, made a splash at the SM Cinema Director's Club in SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. More from NextShark: ENHYPEN, ONEUS, Kang Daniel among acts announced for new music festival in Las Vegas "Mermaids swam ashore and invaded SM Cinema Director's Club SM Mall of Asia to watch The Little Mermaid and we had sooo much fun!" the group wrote on their official Facebook page. In an interview with NextShark, a Mermaids PH representative shared that they consist of members from all over the Philippines and engage in a variety of activities such as clean-up drives, swim meetups, photoshoots both on land and underwater, and outreach events." More from NextShark: Simu Liu Responds After Discovering Many People Use His Photos to Catfish Some members even represent the country in international mermaid competitions and dive conventions, showcasing their skills and passion for mermaids. We use our platform to encourage others to be comfortable with their body types while getting a chance to explore our marine wonders, promote ecotourism and spread marine conservation awareness. This was not the first time the group watched a film together in full mermaid attire. In 2018, they organized a similar event for the showing of the Filipino film "My Fairy Tail Love Story. More from NextShark: Blackpinks Jennie appears in new trailer for upcoming HBO drama series 'The Idol' The recent screening of "The Little Mermaid" brought an even larger turnout, with more members across the Philippines joining the unique movie experience. Members from GenSan, Bulacan and Cebu responded to the call and celebrated the opportunity to watch the Disney film while fully embracing their mermaid personas. Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! Netflix drops trailer for new K-drama 'The Glory' starring Song Hye-kyo The Afipsky oil refinery caught fire in Krasnodar Krai of the Russian Federation, with the fire likely caused by a drone strike. Source: Veniamin Kondratyev, the governor of Krasnodar Krai, on Telegram; SHOT, a Russian Telegram channel; Baza, a Russian independent Telegram channel Quote from Kondratyev: "A fire breaks out on the premises of the Afipsky oil refinery in Severskaya district. One of the fuel oil distillation units is on fire. The preliminary cause is the strike of a UAV." Details: According to SHOT, the drone attack took place around 03:00. "The plant was covered in flames and smoke. A powerful explosion was heard several kilometres away," the channel writes. Baza shared a video allegedly showing a UAV striking the refinery. At around 04:40, the Russian governor said that the fire at the refinery had been completely put down. Update: Russian Telegram channels also reported that, in addition to the Afipsky Oil Refinery, a drone attacked the Ilskyi Oil Refinery in the Krasnodar Krai. The Russian Federation claims that a kamikaze drone fell on the territory of the refinery at around 03:00 but did not detonate. Last week, the Russian Federation said that four drones attacked the Ilskyi Oil Refinery, but all of them were neutralised. The debris allegedly damaged the diesel fuel production plant, but it did not catch fire. The infrastructure of the refinery was not seriously damaged in both cases. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Firefighters with Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency work to put out fires in the Tantallon area of Nova Scotia Firefighters on Wednesday faced a grueling uphill battle against wildfires in Canada's Nova Scotia province, including one threatening suburbs of Halifax. Federal help was coming, officials said, along with firefighters from the United States. "We're in a crisis in the province and we want and we need and we will take all the support we can get," Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston told a news conference. "These fires are unprecedented." Already, additional kit have been shipped in from Ontario, and a dozen water bombers from neighboring regions and the Coast Guard joined efforts to douse the flames and assist with evacuations. Houston said he has also asked for the military to help out. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the wildfires "heartbreaking," and vowed unlimited support. As of Wednesday, 14 wildfires were burning in Nova Scotia, including three out of control. They've so far destroyed or damaged more than 200 homes and other structures including a wooden bridge, but no injuries have been reported. One couple described to public broadcaster CBC having lost both their home and their childcare business. "That's my life," a tearful Terri Kottwitz said. Others said they saw trees on fire in their backyard as they fled with just a moment's notice. Evacuee Janis Churchill-Moher told CBC that she didn't know if her home in the picturesque rural south of the province was still standing. "Our neighbors have working farms and they just had to pack up their kids, pack up as many animals as fast as they could and run," she said. More than 2,000 residents of the area were ordered to evacuate earlier in the week as fires swept through the area. "It's a devastating situation for everybody," she said. - 'Frustrated and frightened' - Smoke from the wildfires blew down the Atlantic coast, prompting air quality alerts for the US state of New Jersey and parts of Pennsylvania, including the Philadelphia area. David Meldrum of the Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency, pointing to record-high temperatures forecast this week, warned of "a prolonged operation" to bring under control a large fire northwest of the port city that has displaced more than 16,000 residents. "People are understandably tired, frustrated and frightened," said Halifax Mayor Mike Savage, adding that "some have no home to return to." Houston announced a ban on all activities in Nova Scotia forests, including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, the use of off-road vehicles and logging. "For God's sake, stop burning. Stop flicking cigarette butts out of the car window. Just stop it. Our resources are stretched incredibly thin right now fighting existing fires," he pleaded after several illegal burns were reported by conservation officers. Government data shows a decline in the number of wildfires in Canada since the 1980s, likely due to improved fire prevention. But the past decade also saw more disastrous wildfires scorching a lot more land and displacing many more people -- problems set to worsen with climate change. In recent years western Canada has been hit repeatedly by extreme weather, including floods and mudslides, forest fires that destroyed an entire town, and record-high summer temperatures that killed more than 500 people in 2021. On Tuesday, 800 residents of Fort Chiepwyan in northern Alberta had to be airlifted to safety as fires beared down on the remote hamlet. Earlier this month, wildfires in Alberta burned nearly one million hectares of forests and grasslands, and at one point displaced 30,000 people. amc/bgs A fireplace, CD player and a little wooden bed: Inside King Charless Romanian hideaway that you can rent King Charles III will be recovering from the coronation celebrations by unwinding in his secret retreat in rural Transylvania next week. According to the Daily Mail, the home is a stripped-back former farmhouse in a cosy hamlet in Zalanpatak, Romania, close to the Carpathian Mountains. The King is understood to have purchased the property several years ago. Queen Camilla will not be joining him on his annual visit, leaving the 74-year-old monarch to enjoy some R and R during the first year of his new role. The property is rented out to visitors, with double rooms for an all inclusive-stay starting at 140 per night, in between King Charless annual visit to the region. Speaking on Good Morning Britain last week (22 May), royal expert Jennie Bond said that the King will be visiting the retreat in the coming weeks to recuperate from his coronation. She told the programme that the King has laid an ecological water treatment plant at the residence and loves it there. He sleeps in a little wooden bed, hes going there for a very short stay next month, she added. The hideaway is surrounded by hills and meadows of the Zalan Valley, frequented by wolves and bears. There is no wifi, TV or radio, but the drawing room now has a small hi-fi player with CDs. But the property is far from a man cave, with seven double rooms with en-suite bathrooms in three heritage cottages, each furnished with authentic Transylvanian antiques and textiles. A fourth building has a drawing room and dining area with a large open fireplace and a comfortable sitting area on a landing above the kitchen. It is understood that the King wishes to encourage more people to visit Transylvania and promote sustainable development, according to the official website for the guesthouse. There was some doubt as to whether the King would make his annual visit for 2023, but it is reported that he will arrive in early June and stay for a week. 'Flash' Director Says He Wants To Work With Troubled Star Ezra Miller On Sequel The Flash director Andy Muschietti is all in on a potential sequel with controversial actor Ezra Miller. If [a sequel] happens, yes, Muschietti said in The Playlist preview Tuesday of The Discourse podcast. I dont think theres anyone that can play that character as well as they did. The other depictions of the character are great, but this particular vision of the character, they just excelled in doing it. Millers troubling behavior has clouded the prospects of The Flash before it opens June 16 with Miller playing the DC Comics superhero. In January, Miller received probation in a plea deal for a home break-in and theft. They were also arrested twice last year in Hawaii on charges that included disorderly conduct and harassment at a karaoke bar. The Justice League star, who is nonbinary and uses they and them pronouns, announced in August they were getting help for complex mental health issues following the arrests. They also faced claims of abuse and grooming. "The Flash" director Andy Muschietti (left) said he would work with actor Ezra Miller again. Barbara Muschietti, the directors sister and producing partner, lauded Millers behavior in principal photography, per The Playlist. Ezra was brilliant and the most committed and the most professional [actor]. Ezra gave everything for this role physically, creatively, emotionally, she reportedly said on the podcast. They were absolutely supreme. But Millers return to the franchise is by no means a cinch. DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn was noncommittal about Millers future in April. Were just gonna have to wait and see, he said. (Possible translation: Lets see how the film does and how moviegoers perception of Miller stands.) In October, actor Issa Rae called out Warner Bros., which is distributing the film, for protecting Miller as the movie remained in production. Theres this person whos a repeat offender, whos been behaving atrociously, and as opposed to shutting them down and shutting the production down, theres an effort to save the movie and them, she said. That is a clear example of the lengths that Hollywood will go to to save itself and to protect offenders. Related... The Flash: Ezra Miller will return for future sequel despite controversies, director says Ezra Miller will return for a potential sequel of The Flash despite their recent controversies, the films director has said. In recent years, Miller who uses they/them pronouns has found themself facing a series of controversies and legal troubles, ranging from disorderly conduct and assault to burglary. In August 2022, the actor issued an apology, explaining that they had been suffering complex mental health issues. This had led many to question whether their latest project, a big-screen adaptation of DC Comics The Flash would ever be released, after beginning shooting back in 2021. However, the long-awaited film will finally arrive in cinemas on 16 June, despite some fans threatening to boycott the project over Millers involvement. In a forthcoming episode of The Discourse podcast, director Andy Muschietti heaped praise on Miller for their performance, saying that the actor would continue the role in any sequel Muschietti made. If it happens, yes, the director said, as reported by The Playlist. I dont think theres anyone that can play that character as well as they did. The other depictions of the character are great, but this particular vision of the character, they just excelled in doing it. And, as you said, the two Barrys it feels like a character that was made for them. Muschiettis wife Barbara, who produced the film, added: In principal photography, Ezra was brilliant and the most committed and the most professional [actor]. Ezra gave everything for this role physically, creatively, emotionally. They were absolutely supreme. Miller in The Flash (Warner Bros) Millers troubles began when a video surfaced on Twitter in 2020 that appeared to show the actor choking a woman at a bar in Reykjavik, Iceland. No charges were ever brought against Miller over the incident. Miller was also accused of grooming and psychologically manipulating, physically intimidating and endangering the safety and welfare of 18-year-old indigenous activist Tokata Iron Eyes. In an interview with The Independent, the teenagers father claimed Miller supplied them with alcohol, marijuana and LSD during their friendship, which dated back to when Iron Eyes was 12. Tokata Iron Eyes denied being abused or groomed by the actor. In May 2022, Miller was charged with alleged alcohol theft in the state of Vermont. Local police said in a statement that they had received a complaint that several bottles of alcohol had been stolen from an address in County Rd in Stamford on 1 May this year. While the fate of The Flash hang in the air, Warner Bros confirmed in August 2022 that the film would still be released in June 2023 as planned. That same month, Miller shared their apology following a period of intense crisis. Having recently gone through a time of intense crisis, I now understand that I am suffering complex mental health issues and have begun ongoing treatment, they said. I want to apologise to everyone that I have alarmed and upset with my past behaviour. I am committed to doing the necessary work to get back to a healthy, safe and productive stage in my life. The Flash is released in cinemas on 16 June. Rejecting arguments by public hospital districts and school boards, a Leon County circuit judge has backed Attorney General Ashley Moody in a battle about opioid-epidemic settlements with the pharmaceutical industry. Judge John Cooper, in a 15-page decision, ruled that Moody had the authority to enter a series of settlements that effectively trumped lawsuits pursued by the hospital districts and school boards. The Miami-Dade County School Board and the Putnam County School Board quickly filed a notice of appeal after Fridays ruling. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< The ruling said the Legislature specifically granted the attorney general authority to enforce consumer protection laws and that Moody had the power to enter settlements that prevented separate claims by local government agencies. A filing by Moodys office said the state settlements will lead to companies paying about $3 billion over a number of years. Allowing defendants (the hospital districts and school districts) to continue pursuing their subordinate opioid claims threatens Floridas sovereign interest in vindicating its citizens rights all of its citizens rights when confronted with societal harms such as the opioid crisis, Coopers ruling said. These are collective harms. They do not flow in an insular fashion to individual (political) subdivisions the harms cross city and county lines. Indeed the opioid settlements consider the pervasive harms caused by the opioid crisis and apply a mixture of statewide and local solutions. Defendants continued pursuit of their opioid claims in contravention of the opioid settlements jeopardizes the flow of tens of millions of dollars that will aid in the abatement of the opioid epidemic throughout the state of Florida. Moodys office filed the lawsuit last year against the Sarasota County Public Hospital District, Lee Memorial Health System, the North Broward Hospital District, Halifax Hospital Medical Center, the West Volusia Hospital Authority, and the Miami-Dade School Board. The West Volusia district later was dismissed from the case, but the South Broward Hospital District and the Putnam County School Board were added. All of the local agencies had sued drug distributors, manufacturers, or pharmacies because of the opioid epidemic, according to Coopers ruling. Moodys office entered into seven settlements with a variety of companies with each of the settlements including a release of claims filed by local governments. Some settlements resulted from multi-state litigation, while others came as a result of a lawsuit that the attorney generals office filed in Pasco County. Moodys lawsuit against the hospital districts and school boards said the settlements would provide money for opioid treatment, prevention and recovery services and that money would go to communities throughout the state. But the hospital districts and school board argued that Moody did not have the authority to release their claims. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] As an example, Halifax, a major Volusia County hospital system, said in a September court filing that Moody entered into what is known as an allocation agreement to distribute money from the settlements to counties, cities, towns, and villages but did not include hospital districts. The filing also said the attorney generals office did not consult with Halifax about the lawsuit filed in Pasco County against pharmaceutical companies, the settlements, or the allocation agreement. The attorney general is asserting the right to seize claims against third parties belonging to Halifax, an independent entity that the attorney general was not representing and over which she has no decision-making authority, and to use those claims as bargaining chips to settle litigation to which Halifax was not a party and from which it stands to gain nothing, the September filing said. Not only is there no authority in Florida law for such conduct, it violates fundamental principles of due process. But in his ruling, Cooper said courts have repeatedly interpreted state law to mean that the attorney general retains all of the historic, sovereign common law powers and duties to represent and protect the people of Florida and their interests. This court further states that when there is a conflict (or overlap) between sovereign state interests and insular subdivision interests, the sovereigns interest necessarily must be deemed to be superior because the states interest subsumes, in its entirety, the subdivisions interest, Cooper wrote in another part of the ruling. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. The Florida Department of Education is gearing up to begin crafting rules to carry out a number of measures approved by state lawmakers and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, including some proposals that were among the most controversial issues from the 2023 legislative session. The department is slated on June 9 to hold a series of online rule-development workshops that would help implement the new laws. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< One of the measures (HB 1521), signed by DeSantis on May 17, will require people to use the bathroom that lines up with their sex assigned at birth. The new law, which goes into effect July 1, applies to the use of restrooms at public and private schools, as well as public buildings such as airports, state and local government buildings, prisons, and jails. A notice of the education departments rule-development workshop said its purpose and effect is to align the rule with new legislative changes that prohibit a district policy that allows separation for any criteria other than biological sex at birth. The subject matter that will be addressed during the workshop is access to restrooms, locker rooms, and dressing rooms by the opposite sex for which they were designated, the notice said. DeSantis, who championed the restroom measure, said the new law is geared toward ensuring womens safety. A woman should not be in a locker room having to worry about someone from the opposite sex being in their locker room, the governor said during a bill-signing event. The controversial measure was among a number of bills targeting transgender people approved by the Republican-controlled Legislature and signed by DeSantis, who recently entered the 2024 race for president. Democrats and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups fiercely opposed the slate of bills. In a statement issued last week, the Human Rights Campaign decried what it called the anti-trans bathroom bill as part of targeted and discriminatory measures aimed at gay and transgender men and women. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Another rule-development workshop scheduled for June 9 addresses a new law (SB 1438) that seeks to block children from attending drag shows. The law prohibits venues from admitting minors to adult live performances, which are defined as any show, exhibition, or other presentation that is performed in front of a live audience and in whole or in part, depicts or simulates nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement, specific sexual activities, lewd conduct, or the lewd exposure of prosthetic or imitation genitals or breasts. READ: Attack on us, Drag Show community reacts to passing of Florida State Bill 1438 The Department of Educations proposed rule would apply to school-sponsored events and activities. The notice of the workshop says that the rules purpose would be to protect the fundamental rights of parents by ensuring that children are not exposed to inappropriate school-sponsored events and activities. The department also appears poised to begin the rulemaking process on a rule the agency said aims to strengthen parents rights and safeguard their childs educational record to ensure the use of the childs legal name in school. The workshop on that issue comes after DeSantis signed a controversial measure (HB 1069) that limits the way teachers and students can use their preferred pronouns in schools. Under the new law, which goes into effect July 1, teachers and other school employees will be prohibited from telling students their preferred pronouns. Educators also will be barred from asking students about their preferred pronouns. The notice of the workshop about students names said the rule being developed would implement parts of laws related to school-district records and the rights of parents and students. A local procedure will be developed for a parent to specify any deviation from the childs legal name in school. This rule will ensure full transparency to enhance the students record and protect parental rights. Other general amendments designed to strengthen student records will also be considered, the notice said. Also, the education department has scheduled a June 9 workshop to flesh out a process to handle disagreements over local decisions about objections to materials used in school or classroom libraries. The process would involve special magistrates and administrative hearings. Another rule being developed will lay out a procedure for teachers to challenge certain directives from school districts or school administrators. Under a new law (SB 1035) signed by DeSantis, educators could request special magistrates in instances if they are directed by his or her school district or school to violate a state law or State Board of Education rule. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. Gov. Ron DeSantis administration has quietly changed state guidelines, essentially giving its blessing for a state-level political committee he previously ran to move millions of dollars to a super PAC helping his presidential campaign. For years, elections officials said such a transfer to federal super PACs would not be allowed. But in March just months before DeSantis formally launched his bid for president officials at the Florida State Department, the DeSantis administration entity that regulates state elections, changed its handbook to assert that such moves are allowed. The timing is notable because a state-level political committee DeSantis led for the past five years, known as Friends of Ron DeSantis, is widely expected to transfer $80 million to a federal super PAC called Never Back Down that is supporting his just-launched bid for president. Going back to at least the 2016 election cycle, the handbook made it clear that state election regulators did not think transferring money from state to federal committees was allowable. The issue was addressed in every election cycle in the handbooks frequently asked questions section. No, read the past handbooks, in response to hypothetical questions about state-to-federal transfers. A Florida political committee must use its funds solely for Florida political activities, i.e., depositing contributions and making expenditures, which by definition in Florida law, are for the purposes of influencing only Florida elections. For the next four versions of the handbook covering the 2016, 2018, 2020 and 2022 election cycles, an identical answer was given. The 2022 version of the Florida Division of Elections Political Committee Handbook. (Florida Dept. of State) In the 2024 version published in March, however, the answer changed. It now advises that such transfers are allowed, citing the U.S. Supreme Court's 2010 Citizens United ruling, in which the court removed a ban on corporations and unions making independent expenditures. It paved the way for super PACs like Never Back Down, which is expected to spend upward of $200 million helping DeSantis try to win the White House. A Florida political committee may make contributions to an out-of-state political entity that engages solely in non-coordinated expenditures, reads the updated answer, using a wonky election term for super PACs, which cannot directly coordinate with candidate campaigns they are helping. The new answer specifically points to the Citizens United ruling in describing the department's previous advice as no longer tenable regarding contributions to groups whose expenditures are not coordinated with candidates. It said that because of the 2010 ruling, the department is updating its guidance. The 2023 version of the Florida Division of Elections Political Committee Handbook. (Florida Dept. of State) A State Department official did not reply to a request seeking comment about why the agency is only now making the change 13 years after the Citizens United ruling. DeSantis' office also did not respond to a request for comment. The agency is run by a DeSantis appointee and ally, former Republican state Rep. Cord Byrd, who had refused to say whether Joe Biden won the 2020 election. Citizens United was decided almost thirteen years ago and the Florida Legislature has amended the campaign finance statute at least five times since then, a veteran Florida campaign finance attorney, who was granted anonymity to discuss the matter freely, said in a text message. Up until 2 months ago, nobody seemed too concerned about how our state laws fit with that supreme court decision. But now, magically, here we are, the person added, referring to DeSantis' presidential campaign. The Federal Election Commission has not offered clarity on the issue, even as some have argued that such transfers are at odds with federal election law. In 2020, roughly $100,000 from a state-level political committee was transferred to a super PAC supporting the congressional campaign of Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla. An FEC complaint was filed, and the commission split on a 3-3 vote, essentially leaving the door open for others, like DeSantis political operation, to transfer state money into federal coffers in the future. In early May, DeSantis distanced himself from Friends of Ron DeSantis, the state-level political committee, when Republican state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, a strong DeSantis ally, was made the groups chairman. Whether the group could transfer the more than $80 million in its bank account to the pro-DeSantis super PAC has been the subject of open speculation, the latest spurred by an FEC complaint filed Tuesday by the Campaign Legal Center. The group alleges that even though he was not yet an officially declared candidate, DeSantis was legally running for president as far back as March based on media reports and on his travel both in early presidential primary states and abroad that spurred speculation he was beefing up his foreign affairs resume. DeSantis engaged in an extended period of fundraising, as well as domestic and foreign travel, to build a presidential war chest and publicly present himself as a viable presidential candidate, the complaint reads. It alleges that the huge sums raised through the state-level committee, so-called soft money, were used to subsidize that early travel, which the group argues was in service of a presidential bid and at odds with federal election law. DeSantis formally declared for president last Wednesday. Soft money undermines federal campaign finance laws, because it is, by definition, money raised and spent outside the scope of those laws, said Saurav Ghosh, the director of federal campaign finance reform at the Campaign Legal Center, a nonprofit watchdog group. We are talking about funds from billionaires and corporate special interests who could exert massive influence over the candidate they are financing. Money has not yet been transferred from the state-level political committee DeSantis formerly led to the super PAC supporting his presidential bid, according to state election records. In its complaint, the Campaign Legal Center pointed to a New York Times story indicating that Never Back Down officials expected the transfer. Never Back Down officials did not respond to a request seeking comment about the complaint. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com He was at a Florida park wearing no pants, police say. Then he grabbed a shovel Violence broke out right before the start of the long Memorial Day weekend at a park on the Space Coast of Florida. According to the arrest affidavit from the Melbourne Police Department, a Palm Bay man is accused of attacking two women with a knife and shovel at Brothers Park . The police report says officers responded to a disturbance at the park at about 5 p.m. Friday and saw a man wearing only a T-shirt carrying a shovel in his hands as though it were a weapon. Officers made contact with the suspect, later identified as 38-year-old Rogelio Espinoza, who was read his Miranda rights and agreed to be interviewed. When asked what was happening, the man told cops that he came to the park to smoke a joint and saw two women whom he accused of beating him up. I got my a-- beat last week by those girls, the defendant said, according to the police report. One of the women had a different story, telling officers that the suspect had become irate for an unknown reason, retrieved a small pocket knife and threatened to cut her with it. The woman said as she began to run away, she saw Espinoza retrieve a wooden shovel and come after her and swing it at her head. She ducked to avoid being struck in the face, according to the police report, but the shovel made contact with the top of her head. No visible injuries were seen, notes the report. The other woman told police that Espinoza had also come at her, kicking her in the chest, causing her to fall backward on the wet grass. The complaint says that her clothing was noticeably damp. Espinoza then threatened with the knife, yelling, Im going to f--- you up. Officers detained Espinoza, putting him in their patrol car. While taking him to a hospital for medical clearance, he reportedly told them, Why didnt you let me hit her? Its unclear to which woman he was talking about. Espinoza was charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, resisting an officer without violence, battery and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He remains in jail on $27,500 bond. Liberal groups and social media users claim a May 2023 shooting in the US state of Florida occurred after a law allowing citizens to carry concealed firearms without a permit came into force. This is false; Republican Governor Ron DeSantis signed the bill in April, but the policy becomes effective July 1. "ANOTHER ONE: A mass shooting has taken place Hollywood Beach, Florida. CBS reports that at least seven people have been shot, including children," says a May 29, 2023 tweet from Really American, a liberal political action committee. "In April, DeSantis' permitless carry went into effect." Screenshot of a tweet taken May 31, 2023 Other posts misreporting the bill's effective date circulated on Twitter and Facebook after nine people were injured in a Memorial Day shooting in Hollywood Beach, Florida. On April 3, DeSantis signed a bill (archived here) that eliminates permit requirements for carrying concealed weapons. But that change will not go into effect until July 1. When that happens, Floridians seeking to carry a concealed firearm will no longer have to receive a mandatory background check or take a training course. Other gun ownership requirements, including age restrictions, will still apply. Qualified Florida citizens must undergo a background check to purchase firearms from a licensed dealer, in compliance with federal law. However, there are no such stipulations for private transactions and exchanges. The state's policy change comes five years after former Republican governor Rick Scott signed a bill tightening gun restrictions after a deadly mass shooting at a high school in Parkland, Florida. On May 24, US President Joe Biden called on Republicans in Congress to end the "epidemic" of gun violence by enacting stricter laws. He made the comments at a White House memorial for those killed in a May 2022 shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. AFP has fact-checked other misinformation about mass shootings here. A Pinellas County woman is the latest Floridian arrested over falsified petitions for a 2022 proposed amendment to expand casino gaming. Kasandra Baylor, 65, of St. Petersburg, was arrested Sunday on charges of criminal use of personal identification information after prosecutors say she used a dead persons information and the information of unwitting voters to fill out petitions in favor of the proposed constitutional amendment. Of the 976 petitions Baylor submitted as a paid petition-gatherer, 477 were deemed invalid for reasons including having signatures that didnt match, being completed by voters not on the rolls, or having deceased individuals information, according to prosecutors. Baylor was a paid petition circulator for Metropolitan Strategy and Solutions from October 2021 to January 2022, making about $11,000, according to the arrest warrant. The petition drive was financed by Las Vegas Sands, the casino company that spent $73 million trying to get an amendment on the November 2022 ballot, asking voters to allow card rooms in Florida to be converted to Vegas-style casinos. The Seminole Tribe of Florida, which has a monopoly on casino-style gambling in Florida, spent at least $40 million to keep the measure from going before voters, according to the state Division of Elections website. The Sands-backed committee sponsoring the amendment, Florida Voters in Charge, failed to meet the number of required valid signatures by the deadline. It initially tried to fight to keep the amendment alive in court but later dropped the effort. READ MORE: Election supervisors cite fraudulent signatures on Las Vegas Sands casino petitions In 2021, elections officials across the state raised the alarm that a number of petitions in favor of the expansion of casino gambling seemed to be fraudulent. Baylor was one of 21 circulators whose submitted petitions to Florida Voters in Charge were investigated by the Pinellas-Pasco State Attorneys Office, according to the arrest record. Prosecutors have filed charges in many of the cases over the last month and a half, said Kendall Davidson with the Pinellas-Pasco State Attorneys Office. The full list of individuals arrested was not immediately available Wednesday afternoon. The prosecutor investigating Baylors case interviewed two people who were listed as having signed petitions submitted by Baylor. Both confirmed that they didnt sign the petition, but their personal information was used. One of the women said she knew Baylor 35 years ago, when Baylor went to a hair salon that the woman owned. Baylor did not return two calls from a reporter on Wednesday. An attorney representing Florida Voters in Charge did not respond to a call and an email. When the idea of fraudulent activity was first raised at the end of 2021, Jim McKee, an attorney representing Florida Voters in Charge said that the idea that our committee would purposely submit fraudulent petitions is ridiculous. Hundreds of petitions across the state were flagged as possibly fraudulent out of Duval, Gulf, Pinellas, Marion, Brevard and Bradford counties. In Marion County, county elections supervisor Wesley Wilcox said one petition included his name and a forged version of his signature. County elections officials said their staffs were buried in work as they tried to verify suspicious petitions. Then-Secretary of State Laurel Lee in December 2021 referred claims of fraudulent petitions by six county elections supervisors to Attorney General Ashley Moody, warning her office not to wait for a criminal investigation to stop additional fraudulent acts against voters. Moodys office did not seek any injunction at the time to stop the petition efforts. In May of last year, a Jacksonville couple was arrested for submitting fraudulent petitions for an affordable housing initiative and the casino gaming initiative, according to Action News Jax. The couple was employed by Umunna Legal Group, according to arrest warrants. In December, a Marianna woman was arrested by Florida Department of Law Enforcement agents for submitting forms in favor of the casino gaming initiative with five peoples information falsely included. The woman worked for a group called Victory Labs Inc., according to the Tallahassee Democrat. Baylors case appears to have been investigated by local prosecutors, not a new statewide election crimes office set up by Gov. Ron DeSantis. The Department of State, which oversees that office, did not as of Wednesday afternoon confirm whether or not the election crime office was involved. Florida Voters in Charge has an active amendment that would again seek to get an amendment to expand casino gaming on the 2024 ballot, but no petitions have been submitted for it so far, and no money has been donated to the groups committee since 2022. Times/Herald staff writer Mary Ellen Klas contributed to this report. Former Disney star Raven-Symone had her dates sign an NDA 'before the naughty times' Former Disney star Raven-Symone had her dates sign an NDA 'before the naughty times' Raven-Symone had a set of rules when it came to dating back in the day. The former Disney star candidly spoke about how things were in her dating life before she tied the knot with Miranda Pearman-Maday. "All of my relationshipsobviously, when I started dating, I had to get people to sign NDAs [non-disclosure agreements]," Symone explained during an interview on the "Howie Mandel Does Stuff" podcast. RAVEN-SYMONE DISSES AMBER HEARD IN VIDEO THAT RESURFACED AMID JOHNNY DEPP LEGAL WOES "Cheetah Girls" alum Raven-Symone admitted she had her dates sign a non-disclosure agreement before things got intimate. "It took me a while to wrap my head around it because its just very impersonal, but someone in our position needs to do that." Mandel asked Symone, 36, at what point during the date or the relationship she requested the NDA to be signed. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP "Before the naughty times come," Symone laughed before she said, "No, Im seriousright before naughty time comes." "That's So Raven" star Raven-Symone, left, is married to wife Miranda Pearman-Maday. Mandel jokingly responded, "So you have paperwork on your nightstand?" 'CELEBRITY WHEEL OF FORTUNE' SEES RAVEN-SYMONE MIX UP POPULAR LYRICS, LOSE ON TECHNICALITY Symone responded "yes," adding "not always on the nightstand, it might happen the day before." "Now they have consent forms... that's a part of it now... Welcome to being a celebrity in Hollywood nowadays," she quipped. Symone and Pearman-Maday secretly tied the knot in June 2020. "It's true though nowadays, hashtags, real life, they change the dynamic of having an intimate relationship with somebody." Symone revealed that she has kept all of her NDAs in case anyone ever says anything about her past relationships. The "Thats So Raven" actress went on to say that after two months of dating, she asked her now-wife to sign the NDA. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER She recalled the moment being "crazy," since Symones mother was pressuring her to move forward with the paperwork. Symone said she asked her now-wife to sign the NDA after they had been dating for two months. "She was like, You got to get it signed.' I'm like, She's from the industry. And my mom was bugging me," the actress said. Symone noted that she was "reluctant" to go through with the documents because she knew something felt "different" about her partner. Although Pearman-Maday initially refused to sign the NDA, the pair eventually came to an agreement. "She did it, but shes also proven to me beyond the three pages," Symone remarked. The couple secretly tied the knot in June 2020 in an intimate backyard ceremony. James Armour, also known as Chris, was jailed for 10 years - Tim Bugler/The Central Scotland News Agency A former showjumper and Kings Horseman has been jailed for 10 years for raping three teenage trainee instructors at a riding school. James Armour was convicted of raping the girls, aged 17 to 19, between 1983 and 1989 while on leave from military duty. The 57-year-old escaped justice for decades until 2019, when one victim reported her ordeal to Rape Crisis and the police, prompting an investigation into abuse at a centre in Fife. Armour, who was known as Chris, represented Britain as an Army showjumper and was a bombardier in the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery. The unit provides horse teams pulling 13-pounder guns on royal occasions and takes part in Trooping the Colour. Physical and emotional damage Lord Young, the judge, said despite having a responsible and disciplined role in the military, Armour had left the victims suffering real physical and emotional damage. Sentencing him at the High Court in Glasgow, the judge said: These offences date back to the 1980s when you were a young soldier. All were committed at an equestrian centre and against young female trainees who lived there. These rapes followed a pattern. You stayed [there] while on leave and had access to attack the trainees. It is clear the women, despite the passage of many years, found it upsetting to repeat what you had done. The victim, now 57, who went to Rape Crisis, told the court Armour had been a complete stranger to her. He walked into a stable where she was working, assaulted and then raped her. Similar attacks occurred over the next two years, during some of which she was smacked with a riding crop and had her head held under running taps. She told the jury at the High Court trial in Stirling: I felt sick. I was just crying all the time. The second victim, now 59, was woken by squeaking floorboards as Armour came into her bedroom. He slapped his hand over her mouth and ordered her to be quiet. Asked why she had not reported what happened at the time, she said: I was scared. I was a naive young girl and it was the start of my career. If Id opened up, I would not have had 30 to 40 years with horses. That is what I thought. The third victim, now 53, was also raped in a bedroom. She said she had consensually kissed Armour before he forced himself on her and raped her. She said she did not feel able to report the rape at the time as she did not think for one moment she would be believed. Predator Armour, from Fife, who went on to live in Congleton, Cheshire, claimed all three women were fantasists. He was put on the sex offenders register indefinitely. Det Sgt Lesley Couper, of Police Scotlands public protection unit, said after the sentencing: Armour is a predator who showed utter disregard for the impact on his victims. I want to commend each victim in reporting these offences to police and for having the strength to stand up in court, making sure he was held accountable for his actions, and ultimately convicted. I hope that this sentence gives all of them some comfort as they try to move forward. 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 China-Europe freight train loaded with 1,300 tonnes of flour from Kazakhstan arrives at Xi'an International Port in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi province, Jan. 13, 2023. [Photo/VCG] Ten years ago, China proposed an interconnectivity mechanism to cement all-round synergies with other countries of the world interested in joining. This is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has since then evolved as a dynamic integration model attracting the attention of international scholars. The BRI was inaugurated in Kazakhstan, opening a new chapter in its relations with China but also impacting on the entire region of Central Asia. The parameter of geography was vital. The May 2023 China-Central Asia Summit organized in Xi'an was thus a good opportunity to look at the results of the previous decade and discuss opportunities in the future. Trade between China and Central Asian countries, namely Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, rose from circa $46 billion in 2012 to over $70 billion in 2022. Among other things, energy has been crucial. The China-Central Asia gas pipeline connects Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and China. Composed of three parallels that were constructed in 2009, 2010, and 2014, respectively, this artery has partly responded to the growing Chinese demand for gas. Another, the fourth corridor of the China-Central Asia gas pipeline, the so-called Line D, is currently underway. Additionally, the Kazakhstan-China pipeline was established in 2004, carrying oil from Kazakh fields to China. In particular, two different lines the Atasu-Alashankou and Kenkiyak-Kumkol are part of the same project. According to official data for 2021, the former transported 10.9 million tons, while the latter carried 6.7 million tons. China's investments in the five Central Asian economies are also significant. Official statistics demonstrate that by the end of 2022, Chinese foreign direct investments in the region will reach nearly $15 billion. In 2021 and 2022, China was the biggest investor in all countries apart from Kazakhstan. In the recent Summit, the Chinese government expressed its commitment to contributing to development in the region by providing approximately $3.8 billion in financial support and grants. Going further, coordination in the sphere of security has been on the agenda. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Turkmenistan is not, but it attended the September 2022 Samarkand Summit as an honored guest. As a result of the Xi'an summit, the five Central Asian states agreed to pursue active cooperation with China on the Global Security Initiative. Challenges remain difficult, stemming inter alia from instability in Afghanistan but going beyond. Relations between China and the five Central Asian countries in the new era are multidimensional, and Beijing is gradually becoming a protagonist in the area. While these relations are evolving at the bilateral level, the multilateral format provides a different framework that might be fruitful in the future. The mirror of history is always useful in planning the future. Xi'an was the capital of the Chinese Empire for more than a millennium at various times as well as a symbol of its glory. It was also the departure point for the ancient Silk Road. Under the Han Dynasty, it functioned as a crossroads for people of China and Central Asia and as a hub of diverse ethnic identities and religious beliefs. In 2023, it is Xi'an again that brings China and Central Asia closer. George N. Tzogopoulos is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit: http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/GeorgeNTzogopoulos.htm Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is set to announce his 2024 presidential campaign Tuesday at a town hall in Manchester, New Hampshire, two sources confirmed. It is the second shot at the Republican presidential nomination for Christie, who stumbled to a sixth-place finish in the 2016 New Hampshire primary. Axios was the first to report the timing of Christie's announcement. After he dropped out of the race eight years ago, Christie, in a then-stunning move, endorsed Donald Trump just days before Super Tuesday, lending a credible name to Trumps momentum. Christie and Trump became allies, with Christie heading up Trump's presidential transition team and later preparing him for debates against Joe Biden in 2020. But Christie has emerged as a vocal critic of Trump, who remains the Republican front-runner in the polls, after Trump refused to concede his loss to Biden in 2020 and pushed baseless claims of widespread election fraud. Christie has continued to criticize Trump, especially in his role as a political contributor on ABC News. In a segment on This Week this month, Christie argued GOP candidates can't beat Trump by "cozying up to him." Christie has held several town hall meetings in New Hampshire, a swing state, in the past few months. In a town hall in Manchester in March, Christie took a voters question about why he failed to take on Trump in 2016. In response, Christie said he and the rest of the field made a strategic error in underestimating Trump, whose lack of policy knowledge was apparent, and believed each of them had a chance to winnow the field into a potential one-on-one match up with him, but "none of us ever got there." Christie also defended his endorsement of Trump in 2016, saying he made the calculation at the time that Trump would be better than Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton (then-Ohio Gov. John Kasich and Sens. Ted Cruz of Texas and Marco Rubio of Florida were still in the GOP presidential primary when Christie endorsed Trump). Christie said he believed hed be able to effectively shape Trump as a better candidate and president but was proved wrong. In another town hall meeting in New Hampshire in April, Christie devoted his entire opening remarks to slamming Trump. Tonight is the beginning of the case against Donald Trump, Christie said. Youre not going to beat someone by closing your eyes, clicking your heels together three times and saying, Theres no place like home. Thats not going to work. Donald Trump is a TV star, nothing more, nothing less, he added. Let me suggest to you that in putting him back in the White House, the reruns will be worse than the original show. Christie served two terms as New Jersey governor from 2010 to 2018. His tenure came under scrutiny during the so-called Bridgegate case, a political scandal in 2013 involving lane closures at the George Washington Bridge, allegedly in retaliation against a Democratic mayor who refused to endorse his re-election. Before he was elected governor, Christie was the U.S. attorney for New Jersey from 2002 to 2008 under President George W. Bush. Christie is set to challenge Trump, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, conservative talk radio host Larry Elder and businessman Perry Johnson for the 2024 GOP nomination. Former Vice President Mike Pence is also expected to announce a potential bid in the coming weeks. A poll by Monmouth University this week found that Christies favorability rating among Republicans is quite poor. Just 21% of registered voters who identify with or lean toward the GOP have a favorable view of him, while 47% view him unfavorably, 24% say they have no opinion of him, and 8% say they havent heard enough about him. Christies results in the poll, the worst among the potential Republican presidential candidates tested, pale in comparison to the ratings of Trump and DeSantis, whose favorability numbers were both above 70%. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com By Steve Holland WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Former Republican Vice President Mike Pence, who incurred Donald Trump's wrath by refusing to support his effort to overturn the results of the 2020 election, is set to enter the 2024 presidential race against his former boss on June 7, two sources familiar with the situation told Reuters. Pence will launch his campaign with a video and a speech in the early nominating state of Iowa, the sources said. A staunch social conservative who stood by Trump throughout his time in his office, Pence has increasingly distanced himself from the former Republican president since his election defeat, saying Trump's encouragement of the rioters who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, put him and his family in danger. Trump has a massive polling lead in a Republican field that now has more than 10 declared candidates, a dynamic that could splinter the primary opposition against the former president. On Wednesday, Pence's polling average in the Republican field was less than 4%, compared to Trump's 53%, according to a RealClearPolitics average of polls. Pence has continued to embrace many of Trump's policies, while portraying himself as an even-keeled and consensus-oriented alternative. He has also appealed more directly to the evangelical Christian community, having spent significant time in recent months touring mega-churches across the country. The success of his campaign will hinge on whether he can attract enough backers of Trump's policies who are turned off by the former president's rhetoric and behavior to build a viable coalition. Pence - a former governor of Indiana and a one-time party leader in the U.S. House of Representatives - will also test voters' appetite for an establishment Republican in a party where voters have increasingly turned to outsiders. (This story has been corrected to change polling day to Wednesday and the number of Republican candidates to more than 10 in paragraph 4) (Reporting by Steve Holland; writing by Kanishka Singh and Tim Reid; editing by Tim Ahmann and Ross Colvin) Former Vice President Mike Pence is jumping into the race for the White House, joining a growing field of 2024 Republican contenders taking on his one-time boss, former President Donald Trump, Fox News has confirmed. Pence is expected to launch a presidential campaign next week at an event in Iowa, the state whose caucuses lead off the Republican presidential nominating calendar. Sources with knowledge of the former vice president's thinking confirm to Fox News that Pence will declare his candidacy in a campaign video and at an event in Des Moines, Iowa next Wednesday, June. 7. PENCE SAYS POSITIVE RESPONSE TO MEMOIR GREAT SOURCE OF ENCOURAGEMENT Former Vice President Mike Pence speaks to guests at the Iowa Faith and Freedom Coalition Spring Kick-Off on April 22, 2023 in Clive, Iowa. Pundits had long viewed Pence as a likely 2024 contender, as he spent the past two years crisscrossing the country to campaign and help raise money for Republicans running in the 2022 elections. Those travels took Pence multiple times to Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada, the first four states to vote in the Republican presidential nominating calendar as he strengthened relationships in the early voting presidential primary and caucus states that usually precede the launch of a White House campaign. The former vice president also spent a couple of months late last year and early this year making stops nationwide as part of a book tour for his memoir "So Help Me God." The autobiography gives an account of his career, including his four years serving under Trump. And behind the scenes he was busy adding to his core team of longstanding advisers and building a team in the key early voting states. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP PENCE TELLS FOX NEWS TRUMP EMPHASIS ON PAST NOT THAT HELPFUL TO GOP IN MIDTERMS In interviews with Fox News and other news organizations, Pence would reiterate when asked about running for president that he and his wife Karen would "make a decision wherever we feel called and we'll go we're called." Former Vice President Mike Pence, during a trip to New Hampshire, greets customers at Simply Delicious Bakery in Bedford, N.H., on Dec. 8, 2021 Besides Trump, who launched his third White House run in mid-November, Pence joins another Trump administration veteran former South Carolina governor and former ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley in the burgeoning GOP presidential field. After Haley announced her candidacy in mid-February, Pence dropped another hint about 2024, saying "she may have more company soon in the race for president." Longtime Republican consultant Colin Reed noted that Pence has "got experience in Congress, as a governor, and in an administration, and thats a powerful trifecta." "Hes been through the fire before. He knows how to do this. He has a network of experienced people surrounding him. He knows who he is, and he knows why hes running, and hes been through the wringer before and you can't discount what that experience brings," Reed, a veteran of GOP presidential and Senate campaigns, added. Former President Mike Pence headlines an awards dinner hosted by a New Hampshire based conservative think tank, on May 16, 2023 in Concord, N.H. But polling in the 2024 GOP nomination race suggests that Pence, along with Haley and other actual and likely Republican presidential contenders, are long shots far behind Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who launched his White House campaign last week. Pence will join a GOP nomination field that also includes Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, former two-term Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, multimillionaire entrepreneur and conservative commentator Vivek Ramaswamy, and Michigan businessman Perry Johnson. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum is also expected to enter the race in the coming weeks, and Republican Gov. Chris Sununu of New Hampshire and former Reps. Will Hurd of Texas and Mike Rogers of Michigan are also seriously mulling 2024 bids. Pence, a former congressman, was Indiana governor when Trump named him his running mate in 2016. And for four years, Pence served as the loyal vice president to Trump. Then-President Donald Trump and then-Vice President Mike Pence pose together on a stage. But everything changed on Jan. 6, 2021, as right-wing extremists including some chanting "hang Mike Pence" stormed the U.S. Capitol aiming to upend congressional certification of President Bidens Electoral College victory that was overseen by Pence. In the more than two years since the end of the Trump administration, the former president and vice president have further drifted apart. And Pence has rebuked his former boss, calling him out by name while discussing Trump's claim that Pence could have overturned the results of the 2020 presidential election. "There are those in our party who believe that as the presiding officer over the joint session of Congress, I possessed unilateral authority to reject electoral college votes," Pence said near the end of a speech at a Federalist Society conference in Florida early last year. "President Trump said I had the right to overturn the election. President Trump is wrong I had no right to overturn the election," Pence said to applause from the crowd of conservative lawyers. Pence has described the deadly attack on the Capitol as "tragic" and that "it dishonored the millions of people who had supported our cause around the country." And hes emphasized that he did "the right thing" and performed his "duty under the Constitution." Hes also noted a number of times that he and Trump may never "see eye to eye on that day." And when asked in recent months about Trumps third White House run, Pence has reiterated that "I think that well have better choices in 2024." Former vice president Mike Pence plans to announce his 2024 presidential candidacy, US media reported Former vice president Mike Pence plans to announce his 2024 White House candidacy next week, challenging Donald Trump for the Republican nomination, US media reported on Wednesday. The 63-year-old Pence will launch his presidential campaign on June 7 with a speech in Iowa, the midwestern state that traditionally kicks off the primary season, CNN and other outlets said. The 76-year-old Trump announced in November that he was making a third bid for the White House and is the clear frontrunner in an increasingly crowded field seeking the Republican nomination. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, 44, jumped into the contest last week and another high-profile Republican, former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, is expected to join the race next week. Nikki Haley, a former governor of South Carolina and Trump's first ambassador to the United Nations, is also seeking the Republican nomination, along with South Carolina Senator Tim Scott. DeSantis, long viewed as the most formidable challenger to twice-impeached Trump, has distanced himself from his erstwhile mentor while doubling down on Trump's populist "America First" agenda. Christie was a former close associate of Trump but has been sharply critical of the former president over the January 2021 assault on the US Capitol and his refusal to concede the 2020 election to Democrat Joe Biden. After years of unwavering loyalty to Trump, Pence was shocked into a change of tack when a mob of Trump supporters threatened his life as they ransacked Congress on January 6, 2021. Pence, an evangelical Christian and staunch opponent of abortion, has been crisscrossing the country in recent months, speaking in many of the states seen as the most consequential in the Republican nomination race. cl/caw Former vice president Mike Pence plans to announce his 2024 presidential candidacy, US media reported Former vice president Mike Pence plans to announce his 2024 White House candidacy next week, challenging Donald Trump for the Republican nomination, US media reported on Wednesday. The 63-year-old Pence will launch his presidential campaign on June 7 with a speech in Iowa, the midwestern state that traditionally kicks off the primary season, NBC News and other outlets said. The 76-year-old Trump announced in November that he was making a third bid for the White House and is the clear frontrunner in an increasingly crowded field seeking the Republican presidential nomination. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, 44, jumped into the contest last week and another high-profile Republican, former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, 60, is expected to join the race next week. Nikki Haley, 51, a former governor of South Carolina and Trump's first ambassador to the United Nations, is also seeking to become the Republican standard-bearer, along with South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, who is vying to become the first Black Republican presidential nominee. DeSantis, long viewed as the most formidable challenger to twice-impeached Trump, has distanced himself from his erstwhile mentor while doubling down on Trump's populist "America First" agenda. Christie was a former close associate of Trump but has been sharply critical of the former president over the January 2021 assault on the US Capitol and his refusal to concede the 2020 election to Democrat Joe Biden. The 80-year-old Biden announced in April that he would seek reelection and is expected to be the Democratic nominee in 2024. Pence, an evangelical Christian and ardent opponent of abortion, has been crisscrossing the country in recent months, speaking in many of the states seen as the most consequential in the Republican nomination race. After years of unwavering loyalty, the former vice president has been at loggerheads with Trump since refusing to go along with his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and remain in power. In remarks at the annual Gridiron Dinner in Washington in March, Pence, a staunch conservative from Indiana, said that history would hold Trump "accountable" for his role in the Capitol riot. - 'Trump was wrong' - "President Trump was wrong," Pence said. "I had no right to overturn the election. And his reckless words endangered my family and everyone at the Capitol that day." In April, Pence testified in the federal investigation examining Trump's role in the assault on the Capitol, one of a number of legal cases facing the former president. In March, Trump became the first US president indicted on criminal charges, in a case involving making hush money payments to a porn star, and a special counsel is currently investigating a cache of classified documents stashed at Trump's Mar-a-Lago home. Trump is also under investigation in Georgia for election interference, and a New York jury found him liable in May of sexually abusing a prominent journalist three decades ago and defaming her. Despite his myriad legal troubles, Trump enjoys a solid lead in early polls for the Republican nomination and a crowded field could potentially benefit his candidacy in the presidential primaries. DeSantis, the Florida governor, is currently the only other Republican candidate with double-digit support in the early polls. cl/bgs Former water district employees awarded OT pay by Fresno County jury. They wanted more A Fresno County jury has awarded two former employees of the Panoche Water District thousands of dollars in overtime pay, but their attorney said it falls substantially short of what they were seeking. The jury returned its verdict last week after a 14-day trial in civil court. The two former employees, Imani Percoats and Chris Bettencourt, sued the water district for breach of contract and for retaliation. They won on the overtime issue but lost on the retaliation claim. Chase Hurley, interim water district manager, said that he was disappointed the jury found merit to their claim for overtime. But we respect the rule of law and are considering our options, Hurley said. In their lawsuit, Percoats and Bettencourt alleged managers punished them for cooperating with state and federal officials investigating allegations of corruption within the agency. The Panoche Water District spans 38,000 acres in Fresno and Merced counties, and provides water to farmers, domestic users and industrial customers. The jury agreed that the two former employees did not get overtime pay that they were entitled to receive. The two men were hired in 2006 as canal men and were responsible for making sure the districts customers got their water deliveries. Percoats was awarded $62,234 and Bettencourt received $99,524, according to court documents. Their attorney, Arnold Peter, of the Peter Law Group in Southern California, said those amounts were far short of what his clients should receive. In the lawsuit, Peter used an experts calculation to arrive at a payout of $960,295 for Percoats and $1,285,479 for Bettencourt. That figure also includes interest. Peter said that while he was pleased the jury found liability for failing to pay overtime, the jury came up with a damages number that neither side asked for and is no way supported by the evidence. Peter plans to file a motion to amend the verdict to the larger number or seek a new trial on the damages. He is also looking into asking for a new trial on the retaliation claim. Panoche Water district audit, indictments The Firebaugh-based water water district has struggled through several challenges the past several years. In 2017, the California State Controller audited the districts administrative and accounting systems from March 1, 2013, through Feb. 28, 2015. The Controller found glaring instances of mismanagement in several areas including a lack of adequate controls over employee fringe benefits, such as employee housing, use of district vehicles, and district-paid rent checks and utility payments, according to the former employees lawsuit. The district was also faulted for a lack of policies over hiring, training and promoting. And overtime pay was based on managements estimate instead of actual hours, the lawsuit states. A year later, the California Attorney General indicted then general manager Dennis Falaschi and Julie Cascia, the former office manager, for embezzlement and misusing nearly $100,000 in public funds. The criminal cases against Falaschi and Cascia, who have denied the allegations, are still active in Fresno County Superior Court. The Fort Worth Central Library building in downtown has officially sold, and plans for its development could involve more than one 20-story towers. Dart Interests bought the 2.4-acre property at 500 W. Third St. for $18 million after months spent finalizing the agreement. Back in March, the developer said it was too early to say what it might do with the block-size property, but preliminary discussions have included one or two high-rise towers. A pre-development concept rendering of the property shows modern towers at the site, which is a prime downtown location three blocks from Sundance Square Plaza. Dart Interests acquired the former Fort Worth Central Library building at 500 W. 3rd St. for $18 million and has not yet determined what purpose the high-rise redevelopment will be used for. The city of Fort Worth decided to sell the library to Dart Interests in December, months after the library said it would downsize the branch because it no longer needed that much space. The library expects to leave the 234,000-square-foot building and relocate to a new space within a year. The city brought on commercial real estate company JLL to oversee the propertys sale and development. Todd Burnette, managing director of JLL Fort Worth, said in a release the deal benefits all parties involved. The development of the property will not only create new jobs within the towers and during construction, but it will also help generate additional tax revenues for the city, Burnette said. David Berzina, vice president of JLL Fort Worth, said the sale sets a new benchmark for commercial land sales in downtown Fort Worth and reflects the immense value and potential of the Fort Worth market. The development will potentially include 20-story buildings, adding a signature appeal to Fort Worths skyline and ushering in fresh opportunities and growth for the area, Berzina said in a release. 500 West 3rd Street is zoned for both multi-family and commercial use. We are big fans of Fort Worth and downtown Fort Worth, especially, said Dart Interests president Christopher Kelsey in March. We think it is a great place both to live and work, so our overall goal is to enhance the existing vitality of the downtown. Kelsey said the company has yet to determine the best possible uses for the property and design for the project. While we generally have a good idea of the choices that we need to make, we have a lot of research to do, including talking to a lot of people in Fort Worth, to decide the final direction for the future property, said Kelsey. We will then work with architects and engineers to design the project. Assuming the market timing is good when we get through that process, then construction will begin. Fort Worths economic development director, Robert Sturns, said the city is working closely with Dart Interests and looks forward to seeing new investment in Fort Worths central business district. The city of Fort Worth decided to sell the downtown central library in December, months after talks of downsizing. The site at 500 W. 3rd St. presents an outstanding opportunity for redevelopment not only due its size and location, but because it builds on the momentum created by other development projects happening in and around downtown right now, Sturns said. The developer previously said a project featuring two towers makes the most sense for the site, the Dallas Business Journal reported, but Kelsey declined to comment further. The reality is that we are simply not that far along in the design, Kelsey said. The little bit of design work that has been completed simply gave us the confidence that the project made sense. The property is zoned for both multi-family and commercial uses under Fort Worths Downtown Design Review Board purview. Built in 1980, the current structure is not considered a historic landmark. Dart Interests is based in Dallas and has projects in 12 markets across seven states, including New York City, Washington D.C. and Houston. This is the real estate development and investment firms first project in North Texas. The firm is currently in the works on a new $700 million Florida resort next to Orlandos Walt Disney World. Fort Worth man turns himself in to sheriffs office on charge of murdering his cousin A 23-year-old Fort Worth man turned himself in to the Tarrant County Sheriffs Office on Wednesday on a murder charge in the death of his cousin. Fort Worth police said Jacoby Roberts turned himself in to the Tarrant County Sheriffs Office bond desk, according to a report from Star-Telegram partner WFAA-TV. Roberts was wanted by police on a capital murder charge after officers found his cousin Jailon Freeman, 25, dead with a gunshot wound to the head outside of an apartment building in the 5100 block of Ivy Wood Lane on April 4. Detectives learned that Freeman was involved in an argument with someone when that person believed to be Roberts shot him and fled the scene, according to Fort Worth police. The police department had contacted law enforcement out of state to help with the search for the suspect. It was believed that Roberts had ties to the Tulsa, Oklahoma, area, according to Tulsa police. He also has ties to the Houston area, where his mother lives, according to Freemans mother. Nykia Freeman told the Star-Telegram that she does not know why Roberts shot her son and said she was not aware of any conflict between the two. I dont even try to figure it out because in my mind there is no reason why, he can never justify why he did it, Nykia Freeman said. Before Free Marie Was Making Waves In Hip-Hop, She Was A Lonely Only In The Tech Industry August 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of hip-hop a genre that has since become a billion-dollar industry beloved by people across the globe. While there are forefathers of the genre, it is equally as important to note the women who have pioneered spaces within the industry those like Free Marie, a former artist and renowned host of BETs 106 & Park. Her Love For Hip-Hop I always look at it like Im this little Black girl from Boston who got plucked out of Boston and put in the middle of hip-hop, Marie told AfroTech following her panel to celebrate hip-hop through Amazon Musics 50 & Forever campaign during the second annual Strength of A Woman Festival & Summit in Atlanta, GA. I love hip-hop and I love music, so it actually makes a lot of sense. Hip-hops legacy is strong and long and Im just literally happy to be a part of it. Previously, AfroTech reported on another industry Marie is familiar with technology. However, during our interview with her, she opened up about how the evolution of hip-hop helped to pull her out of a place in the technology industry where she felt alone. Unfortunately, feelings of being the lonely only is not uncommon in the tech industry. Connecting Technology And The Music It goes hand in hand so much, she noted when asked about the evolution of both technology and the music genre. At the time, when I was doing tech, I was an admin for a law foundation that was an environmental law foundation, and I was going to school and Im in these classes and this woman that looks like me is teaching, I went to Boston University, and Im teaching people computers and Im doing classes in it, but I felt very alone, right? She continued: When hip-hop started evolving past just like CDs, they began to tell us like, Oh, this runs off of it. Everything about hip-hop is digital now, so its interesting to see. Some people like it, some people dont, but its interesting to see the growth and how we keep leveraging some type of digital space for hip-hop. Highlighting Boss Women In The Space Whats more, she says just like the genre has been enhanced by technology, it has also received major upgrades thanks to the women who are pioneering various digital avenues in the hip-hop space that we all love and know today. There are so many women that run these businesses. Weve got Sylvia Rhone weve got Mona Scott, whos running her own thing, but I think women have always been hired to do the work and now theyre pretty much doing the work and getting paid for it, Marie recalled. She added, And starting new things. So, I think women have been given some strong positions in hip-hop, whether thats as the vice president or in marketing or anything, and that has always helped to get the genre where it is today. Overall, Marie aims to use her platform to continue to uplift women. As she continues to lean into her contributions to hip-hop, Free Marie is ensuring that generations of women past, present, and future know and recognize the worth and value that they bring to male-dominated spaces. Championing Women In Hip-Hop We are focused on unity across the world and hip-hop to lift up our women. I think theres been years and years where women havent been lifted up specifically and intentionally, so thats why I was here today, she said during Strength of A Woman in May 2023. Just to lift this one person up, lift myself up, and be in a room that lifts me up. And thats what the Strength of A Woman is being around people you can learn from. Being around people you can talk to and get ideas and can learn about entrepreneurship. Marie continued: If people understood how many women are behind the scenes at SiriusXM and Amazon Music and all of these places theyre running the boards and running the technology behind the scenes and so thats what today was about, showing off our women and recognizing how strong they are. Next up, Marie is lending her voice to the culture yet again as the host of Rap Rotation Rewind in DJ Mode, a new listening experience curated by Amazon Music. A fighter of the Freedom of Russia Legion with the call sign Caesar said that the Russian partisans, who attacked the Kremlin's forces from the territory of Ukraine, have "thousands" of people willing to join their ranks and will continue to raid the border until their forces are large enough to storm Moscow. Source: The Times Quote: "We have serious capabilities. We have mortars, armoured vehicles, stinger manpads, portable anti-tank systems and a highly effective drone reconnaissance unit." Details: He said the Freedom of Russia Legion is the size of a battalion but plans to expand as an increasing number of Russians realise they can fight Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and prevail. A battalion typically consists of 500-1,000 soldiers. Quote: "We will keep performing these harassment raids to the point we have our own piece of Russian territory, so that real Russian sons and daughters, real patriots, will be able to join us. Once that happens we will quickly grow our force and numbers and it will end with the Kremlin campaign." Details: Caesar joked that the weapons for his military formation were purchased from AliExpress and eBay, as well as from Russian military stores. He emphasised that all of the members of his Legion were Russian citizens but admitted that they had served in the Ukrainian Armed Forces: "We are not a band of criminals or a private military company like Wagner. We fight within the structure of Ukrainian forces. Our main goal and task is the defence of Ukraine and de-occupation of its territories. After that we will go to free our home". He added that the raid on Russian territory was intended to support Ukraine's planned counter-offensive while also acting as a recruitment campaign and encouraging Russians to overthrow Putin before the war comes to them. According to him, Russians enter Ukraine through certain neutral border states. "We have a steady flow of incoming recruits and it grows. More and more Russian people understand that this war is criminal and it should be stopped". Alexei Baranovsky, a spokesman for the Legion's political wing, told The Times that the Legion is "a politically neutral organisation with no ideological stance. [Its] only task is to overthrow Putins regime." As he stated, the legion is biding its time: "We arent saying we will get to Moscow tomorrow. This will happen when the Ukrainian armed forces liberate Crimea. Putins political system will be paralysed by defeat in Crimea. This is when we will need to strike a devastating blow against Moscow. This is what we are preparing for." Background: On 22 May, the Russian Volunteer Corps and Freedom of Russia Legion announced that they had crossed the border and were "liberating" the settlements of Belgorod Oblast from the current Russian authorities: they started with the villages of Kozinka and Gora-Podol. These military formations also stated they were seeking the "liberation" of all of Russia. The day after that, the Russian Ministry of Defence announced that all participants in the attack were killed, as well as the cancellation of a counter-terrorist operation in the oblast. The Ukrainian Defence Intelligence confirmed that it cooperates with the Russian Volunteer Corps, including the exchange of information. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! You are here: World Flash A malnourished child is treated at a hospital in Sanaa, Yemen, on May 29, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua] The United Nations has allocated 18 million U.S. dollars to aid more than 17 million people facing high-level food insecurity in Yemen, UN humanitarians said on Tuesday. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) allocation is for approximately 80 percent of the population facing rising malnutrition rates driven by conflict, economic shocks and climate change. A recent UN analysis showed children under the age of five are particularly impacted by the rising malnutrition rates, OCHA said. The 4.3 billion-dollar 2023 appeal for Yemen is currently just over 24 percent funded. "This allocation from the CERF will allow humanitarian agencies and partners to support people in the governorates of Hajjah, Al Hodeidah and Ta'iz," OCHA said. The governorates are among the most vulnerable and affected by food insecurity and malnutrition. Since late 2014, Yemen has been embroiled in a deadly military conflict between the Houthi group and the internationally-recognized government. The conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis that includes widespread hunger. Man on phone in an office. Morsa Images/Getty Images. When it comes to the job market, Gen Z doesn't seem to care all that much. At least that's how some managers and employers feel corralling a generation of workers they believe (erroneously or not) is entitled, lazy and full of pushback. How are "zoomers" affecting the workplace? What complaints do people have about working with Gen Z? In a survey, researchers found that "of 1,300 managers, three out of four agree that Gen Z is harder to work with than other generations so much so that 65% of employers said they have to fire them more often," Rikki Schlott wrote for the New York Post, adding that 21% of managers also believe "entitlement is an issue" with new Gen Z hires. Peter, a hospitality manager based in New Jersey, told the outlet that he feels "kind of hamstrung on what [he] can and can't say," adding that he "doesn't want to offend" anyone and always worries that he'll "get freaking canceled." How does Gen Z feel? Zoomers are making it very clear that their sole purpose in the workplace is to get in, do the job, and get out. Rather than forming emotional attachments to their roles, they prioritize a work-life balance over everything. Perhaps because Gen Z and even millennials are the only generations to have experienced the combined trauma of the debt crisis, gun violence, climate change, and the Covid-19 pandemic, losing a job sounds almost like a vacation. "It's not necessarily that different generations hold different attitudes about work," Sarah Damaske, an associate professor at Penn State University, told Vox. "For millennials and for some members of Gen Z, they've witnessed two recessions, back-to-back. This is a very different labor market experience than what their parents and grandparents encountered." So are they slackers? "Young workers are not lazy, entitled or keen on slacking off," Kim Kelly argued for Insider: "They're simply choosing to reject some of the practices that previous generations were forced to accept." Not to mention they might also find themselves working under managers that "are so burnt out they have little time to spend training the next generation, or even noticing what their workplace experience is like," Melissa Swift, a partner at the consulting company Mercer, told Financial Times' Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson. In other words, Edgecliffe-Johnson summarized, "you can't pin this all on Gen Z." But while "quiet quitting" and detachment may seem enticing initially, younger workers would do well to remember that the world is constantly growing and evolving. In "slacking off" now, they run the risk of ruining their chances for a job down the line, Allison Schrager, an opinion columnist, wrote for Bloomberg. "Careers are long and so are institutional memories," Schrager said. "The pandemic aftermath may have given workers more power for now, but young staffers with decades of employment ahead should be thinking about what happens when that inevitably changes." Is Generation Alpha any different? Generation Alpha, which includes people born in 2010 and after, "will perpetuate our workplace burnout crisis" as a "side effect" of their ambition to "make work and societal change," said a 2020 LinkedIn analysis from Dan Schawbel, a managing partner at research agency Workplace Intelligence. Despite these intense efforts, which will "increase productivity temporarily at the cost of their mental health and long-term value contribution," Alphas "will demand even more from their employers than Gen Z's and millennials," Schawbel said. "They simply won't work for a company that doesn't align with their values and that isn't producing a product that benefits society." Work and life will be "completely integrated" by the time Alphas enter the job market, where they will choose to work for less at a flexible job that supports their "emotional, physical and mental well-being" rather than deplete their tank for higher pay somewhere else. They will also "shatter old work norms and recreate the workplace based on how they interact in their personal lives," Schawbel concluded. You may also like Air New Zealand to weigh international passengers as part of safety survey Thousands flock to Missouri to see body of nun who died in 2019 Why is Joe Biden running for reelection, anyway? George Soros' son has visited the White House at least 17 times since Biden took office, records show George Soros' son has visited the White House at least 17 times since Biden took office, records show Alex Soros, son of liberal billionaire George Soros, has maintained access to the upper echelons of President Biden's White House and has frequently taken advantage of those channels. The younger Soros, who chairs the board of directors for his father's Open Society Foundations network, has now visited the White House at least 17 times since 2021, according to a Fox News Digital review of visitor logs. Alex's most recent visits include three meetings between February 8th and 10th, records released Tuesday show. The visitor logs list Jon Finer, the principal deputy national security adviser; Jordan Finkelstein, special assistant to the president and the chief of staff for senior Biden adviser Anita Dunn; and Mariana Adame, the adviser to the counselor of the president, as the individuals who greeted Alex. TOP BIDEN OFFICIAL REPEATEDLY MET WITH SOROS' FOUNDATION AND OTHER INFLUENTIAL LEFT-WING GROUPS, DOCS SHOW Alex Soros, middle, a son to liberal billionaire George Soros, right, has made frequent visits to the White House since President Biden took office in 2021. It remains unclear precisely who Alex may have met with for the sessions, as the records can contain White House staff who book appointments, meet the guests and take them to other personnel. For example, a White House official confirmed to Fox News Digital in January that two of Alex's past visits were with Ron Klain, Biden's former chief of staff, who was not listed in the records. OSF did not answer questions on the nature of his most recent meetings, and the White House did not respond to an inquiry. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP The three most recent visits come on the heels of his 14 prior visits to the White House. And while the younger Soros has taken advantage of the Biden connections, he's also maintained close contact with Democratic lawmakers, which he often boasts about and posts on social media. Alex's Instagram shows dozens of pictures with top Democrats in the House and the Senate between 2018 and 2022. Two of the Democrats who appeared the most were Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York, with at least nine meetings, and then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California, with at least eight visits. "Good to see majority leader [Schumer] earlier this week! Energized to elect at least two more Democratic senators so we can secure voting rights and a woman's right to chose!" Soros posted on his Instagram in July 2022 along with a picture of the pair. TOP GEORGE SOROS DIRECTOR HAS FREQUENT WHITE HOUSE ACCESS, RECORDS SHOW Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Alex Soros, son of George Soros, take a picture together in an undisclosed location. In a December 2021 Instagram post that included three photos of the pair meeting, Alex called Schumer his "good friend" and said he had a "great meeting" with him at the Capitol. A few months earlier, Alex took a selfie with Schumer wearing a bicycle helmet and said it was "good to see our senate majority leader [Schumer] the other day, biking and in good shape, and so focused on [voting rights] legislation." Alex took a picture with Pelosi at the White House state dinner for French President Emmanuel Macron in December and said she gets the "best dressed award" and is the "greatest Speaker of the House in American History!" Then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California poses with liberal billionaire donor George Soros, pictured on the left, and his son, Alexander, pictured on the right. In an Instagram post from September 2022, Alex and Pelosi posed for a picture with the caption, "Great to see our fearless Speaker of the House [Pelosi]." In a September 2021 post, the younger Soros posed outside with his dad and Pelosi in an undisclosed location with the caption, "In Pelosi we trust! Was good seeing [Speaker Pelosi] this weekend." Alex has also posted two photos of him meeting with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York. The most recent photo appears to be in New York City and includes the caption, "Wonderful to see our new leader in the house [Rep. Jeffries]. We are in the great hands of one of New York City's own." The other photo was in Washington, DC. SOROS-BACKED POLICY GROUP NOTCHES VICTORY WITH BIDEN'S TRANSGENDER TITLE IX RULES Alex Soros often boasts of his connections to Democratic lawmakers on his social media accounts. Other Democrats pictured on Alex's Instagram include Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, Reps. Ro Khanna of California and Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, failed Texas gubernatorial candidate Beto O'Rourke, and Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia. Alex, meanwhile, has poured cash into liberal super PACs and campaigns while meeting with the Democratic politicians, Federal Election Commission records show. Since the 2018 elections, Alex has donated nearly $6 million to federal political coffers, with his most significant contribution being $2 million to the Schumer-aligned Senate Majority PAC. Alex also dropped over $700,000 into the Biden Victory Fund in 2020, putting him among its top donors. He's pushed hundreds of thousands in additional cash to the Nancy Pelosi Victory Fund, the Democratic National Committee, and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC). Additionally, tens of thousands more went to state Democratic parties and individual campaigns, many of which were maximum contributions, the filings show. Georgia-based Scofflaw Brewing Co. will expand its operations with a planned Buckhead taproom and brewery at Oxton, a retail development at Piedmont Center Atlanta. Scofflaw is the first tenant to sign on to the property, According to a news release from Ardent Companies, Oxtons developer. The brewery will open the spot in Buckhead in 2024, marking its fourth location since being founded in Atlanta in 2015. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Under the current plan for the new location, Scofflaw will have a 5,500 square-foot space, featuring an adjoining courtyard with patio tables that spill out of the brewery under the canopy of mature trees on location. Scofflaw Brewmaster Joe McIntyre said the development would help the company reach more Atlanta customers. We cant wait to be Buckheads first brewery and to bring the experience of Scofflaw to an even larger audience of Atlanta beer lovers, McIntyre said in a statement. Guests can expect classic fan favorites as well as some fun new beers only available at our Oxton location. Scofflaw has three locations in Georgia currently, with two in Atlanta, and a third which opened in Columbus in May. TRENDING STORIES: Jonathan Dubovsky, managing director at Ardent, said adding Scofflaw to Oxton would add to the experience the company is working to build into the development. The addition of Scofflaw to Oxton highlights the experience were creating here, Dubovsky said. Pairing the captive audience of office workers and nearby residents with a brewery that is so passionate about what they do will make for a great opportunity for everyone to discover their new favorite place to gather in Buckhead. Oxton, as stated by Ardent, is intended to bring a dynamic food-and-beverage district to what was the Piedmont Center, turning it into a vibrant mixed-use community. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] OTHER NEWS: Georgia felon who was on the run arrested after he shows up for his court date A Georgia man who was on the run from felon y charges was arrested after he showed up for his court date, according to the Blackshear Times. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Dentric Moore was wanted for possession of cocaine and other drug charges. TRENDING STORIES: He was arrested on May 19 after he showed up to the Pierce County courthouse. We had warrants on him and had been searching for him, but had been unable to find him, said Sheriff Ramsey Bennett told the newspaper. He showed up for his court date. You might say he turned himself in. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Moore was taken into custody and charged with possession of cocaine, possession and use of drug-related objects, manufacture/possession of controlled or counterfeit marijuana and use of a communications facility in the commission of a controlled substance felony. Georgia man arrested after massive drug and gun bust at home and auto body shop, deputies say A Georgia man is behind bars after Wayne County deputies executed a searched of a home and a business and found guns and drugs. On May 27, the Jesup-Wayne Tactical Narcotics Team searched a home on 612 South 4th Street (residence) and Englands Collision Center both in Jesup, which led authorities to investigate Eric England and his distribution of drugs. It is unclear if England works for this business. While searching the two different addresses, authorities found Cocaine, LSD, Marijuana, and THC oil products, approximately 700 Tadalafil tablets 14 Lidocaine patches, three firearms and $19,322. The 56-year-old England of Jesup was arrested and will face several drug charges. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Officials said this investigation is ongoing and could result in more arrests and charges. They encourage anyone with information pertaining to this case or any illegal drug or criminal activity to contact the Wayne County Sheriffs Office at 912-427-5970 or the Jesup Police Department at 912-427-1300. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Georgia woman faces murder charge after fatal stabbing, fiery attempt to cover up the crime A woman is accused of stabbing someone to death, then setting their home on fire to cover up their crime. The alleged murder happened in Spalding County, where Channel 2s Elizabeth Rawlins was there to see the charred remains of the house. Neighbors in the area tell Rawlins they are shaken up. Its the third murder to happen on the same street. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Christy Garner, 40, is facing murder charges after investigators tell Channel 2 Action News that she stabbed a woman to death before setting her, and her house, on fire. Shes accused of killing Patricia Gresham. One neighbor told Rawlins they heard the start of the fire. I heard a big boom, and then came back outside and the place was in flames, the neighbor said. Neighbors speaking with Channel 2 Action News did not want to be identified because its the third murder to happen on Dutchman Road. Thats insane, the neighbor told Rawlins. Because you know there was someone else killed just right down the road. TRENDING STORIES: Spalding County investigators were called to the home on Sunday. When they got there, the house was already fully engulfed in flames. A witness told investigators he witnessed the murder, and the attempted cover-up. Somebody said this was a murder and somebody is trying to cover it up, a neighbor told Channel 2 Action News. Garner now faces a number of charges for Greshams death. According to county records, shes being held in the Spalding County Jail without bond. Meanwhile, the neighbors are wondering if its time to move. We shouldnt be here, one said. Its not shaping up to be a good area. Tonight on Channel 2 Action News at 6, Rawlins will break down a copy of the search warrant, obtained by Channel 2 Action News. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] OTHER NEWS: Gerber is searching for its next 'Spokesbaby' It's time to select the 2023 Gerber Baby! On May 31, Gerber launched its iconic Photo Search Contest to find the next Spokesbaby, an annual tradition since 2010. This year, parents get to play along: Gerber is encouraging applicants to submit their own childhood photos (captured from birth to age 10) with their baby's application on Gerber's website between May 31 and June 10. "Whether your baby looks just like you or you have a hilarious throwback image of yourself as a baby to share, Gerber wants to see pictures of both parent and child and hear more about your story," says a company press release. 2022 Gerber Baby Isa Slish is ready to hand over the title (but maybe not that stuffed animal). (Courtesy John and Meredith Slish) Judges will search for entries with compelling stories and a memorable baby expression. The new Gerber Spokesbaby will assume Chief Growing Officer and be featured on the brands social media channels and in marketing campaigns. The winner will also receive a $25,000 cash prize, a wardrobe from Gerber Childrenswear and a one-year supply of Gerber products, along with other treats from ezpz and BEIS Travel. To celebrate the contest's 13th anniversary, Gerber will make a matching donation to March of Dimes' maternal and infant health programs. Last year's winner was Isa Slish, then 7 months, who was the first Gerber baby with a limb difference. Isa and her parents John and Meredith Edmond, Oklahoma, were informed she won on TODAY. "Well this is unexpected!" remarked Meredith. "We're just so amazed. We couldn't think of a better company for her to be the face of." We hoped someone would see Isas spirit and her beautiful smile and eyes, Meredith later told TODAY.com. Isas limb difference is just one part of her. Earlier this year, Isa, who was born without her fibula and right femur, received a prosthetic leg and learned to take her first steps. 2022 Gerber Baby Isa Slish. (Courtesy John and Meredith Slish) Lucas Warren was the first Gerber baby with Down syndrome when he was selected in 2018. "Hes very outgoing and never meets a stranger, Cortney, Lucas' mom, told TODAY.com. He loves to play, loves to laugh and loves to make other people laugh. "Hes always Lucas first," added the mom. "Were hoping when he grows up and looks back on this, hell be proud of himself and not ashamed of his disability." Ann Turner Cook, whose baby face launched the iconic Gerber logo (AP; Gerber) And the very first Gerber Baby was Ann Turner Cook, a former English teacher who died at age 95 in 2022. Cook was selected by Gerber to represent the brand in 1928, after a friend submitted a sketch of her face. Cook captured hearts and remained the official Gerber Baby for more than 90 years. This article was originally published on TODAY.com Germany has sharply dialled down its ties with Moscow and is financially and militarily supporting Ukraine Germany said Wednesday that it would drastically reduce Moscow's diplomatic presence on its soil in response to a similar move from Russia, the latest escalation of tensions sparked by the war in Ukraine. Moscow called Germany's decision "ill thought out" and vowed a response. Berlin has ordered four of Moscow's five consulates in Germany to close, a decision that "was communicated to the Russian foreign ministry today", a foreign ministry spokesman said at a press conference. The move comes after Moscow put a limit of 350 on the number of German government personnel allowed in Russia, the spokesman said. This will mean that hundreds of civil servants and local employees working for German institutions in Russia will have to leave the country, according to the German foreign ministry. "This unjustified decision forces the government to make very substantial cuts in all areas of its presence in Russia," the spokesman said. This will include closing the German consulates in Kaliningrad, Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk, with operations to be considerably reduced and discontinued by November, he said. Germany's embassy in Moscow and its consulate in Saint Petersburg will not be affected. "For the Russian presence in Germany, our decisions apply reciprocally... in order to ensure a balance of the mutual presences both in terms of personnel and structure," the spokesman said. Moscow's reduction of German staff in Russia will affect several hundred people working in German embassies or institutions starting from June, according to the foreign ministry. - Soured relations - Those affected include consulate staff, but mostly employees of German schools, nurseries and the Goethe cultural institute in the country. Moscow accused Germany of destroying decades of "mutually beneficial cooperation" and vowed to retaliate. "There should be no doubt in Berlin that these ill-thought-out provocative actions will not remain without our proper reaction," the Russian foreign ministry said, without providing further details. A close economic partner with Russia before Moscow invaded Ukraine, Germany has since sharply dialled down its ties with Moscow, while financially and militarily supporting Kyiv in the conflict. Since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine, Russian espionage in Germany has grown at a rate rarely equalled in recent years, according to German security services. In April, Germany expelled several Russian diplomats "to reduce the presence of intelligence services", prompting a tit-for-tat response from Moscow, which booted out around 20 German embassy staff. In spring 2022, Germany had already expelled some 40 Russian diplomats whom Berlin suspected of representing a threat to its security. Last October, the head of Germany's cybersecurity agency, Arne Schoenbohm, was fired after news reports revealed his proximity to a cybersecurity consultancy believed to have contacts with Russian intelligence services. A month later, a German reserve officer was handed a suspended prison sentence of a year and nine months in prison for spying for Russia. Even before Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Germany had repeatedly accused Russia of cyberattacks on its soil. Relations between the two countries have also been strained by energy policies, with Russia throttling gas supplies to Germany in response to Western sanctions against Moscow over the Ukraine conflict. fec-as/js The GitHub of AI is named after an emojiand Microsoft has its fingers in it already A platform with a quirky emoji name is becoming the go-to place for AI developers to exchange ideas. Founded in 2016, Hugging Face is a platform on which developers can discuss anything from bug tracking to API integration to overall project development. And with AI drawing massive enthusiasm about being the potential epicenter of future economies, the startup is in good position to stand the test of time. Read more We are on a mission to democratize good machine learning, one commit at a time, Hugging Face says on its platform. It is renowned for its large library, Transformers, which powers the creation of solutions based on the AI subsets of Natural Language Processing (NLP), machine learning, and computer vision. Last year, the company closed a $100 million funding round that placed its valuation at $2 billion. Not surprisingly, Microsoftwhich has been on the cutting edge of AIhas its fingerprints all over the young company. As for the name: The Hugging Face emoji, which is usually a smiling yellow face with open hands as if giving a hug, is widely used across social media chats to mean appreciation, support, and care. The hand gesture denotes excitement, enthusiasm, or accomplishment, according to Emojipediafitting emotions in the rapidly evolving world of AI. Hugging Face Fellows is a network of exceptional people from different backgrounds who contribute to open-source machine learning See what Fellows have been up to last month https://t.co/LZ1Hslmhab pic.twitter.com/S9K0D3t00S Hugging Face (@huggingface) May 30, 2023 Microsoft wants to be on the cutting edge of AI Microsoft, which acquired the hosting service GitHub in 2018 and pumped some $10 billion into OpenAIs popular ChatGPT project in January, is already an anchor user of the platform. Microsoft now has 500 team members on the platform, and has shared 246 modelsprograms that use training data to recognize patterns and make decisionsthat have been downloaded millions of times by users. The Hugging Face platform hosts over 200,000 open-source models. In a March release, Microsoft announced its partnership with Hugging Face to bring open-source models to its Azure Machine Learning platform. John Montgomery, Azure AI Platform at Microsoft corporate vice president, said at the time that the collaboration would simplify the process of deploying and scaling large language models. Its an exciting milestone in our mission to accelerate AI initiatives and bring innovative solutions to the market swiftly and securely, he said. But Microsoft warned users that as much as Hugging Faces Transformer models are easy to try on the platform, they can be challenging to deploy and scale for production-grade inference endpoints. Microsoft then released a step-by-step guideline on how to deploy the models. Amid the continued prominence of generative AI, Hugging Face has become the GitHub version for developers seeking more knowledge on the latest APIs and models to avoid being made redundant by the same technology. Other Big Tech companies know they cant afford to be left out: Meta, AWS, Google, and Intel now command over 1,300 free-to-download models on Hugging Face, according to data on the site. More from Quartz Sign up for Quartz's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. CLIVE, Iowa In his first appearance on the campaign trail as a declared candidate, Ron DeSantis told voters he was substance over fluff, results over superficiality and, above all else, not a loser like Donald Trump. The Florida governor didnt actually mention his chief rival by name. But he didnt have to. The contrasts were big and small, and mainly implicit. He talked about closing the border, spoke about how he would have fired Anthony Fauci during the Covid pandemic, and made note in his speechs crescendo that no conservative wish could come true if their candidate doesnt actually win. Leadership is not about entertainment. Its not about building a brand. Its not about virtue signaling, DeSantis said. It is about results. DeSantis return to Iowa marked a new chapter in his political arc and a slightly new approach to boot, with the mainstream press-averse governor taking questions afterward from an assembled press corps. But the changes werent overwhelming. DeSantis stayed largely on script during his speech, airing a list of policy achievements and painting a dystopian picture of Democratic governance to sell himself to voters. As for that press conference, he only called on reporters pre-selected by his campaign, using the opportunity to once more needle Trump for suggesting Florida had taken the wrong approach to Covid. The stop Tuesday followed a trip DeSantis had made to Iowa earlier this month that was, by most accounts, a success. But with Trump still far ahead in public polling and returning here himself on Wednesday the stakes this week are especially high for DeSantis. Few candidates have arrived in the first-in-the-nation caucus state freighted with such high expectations and viewed by many of his supporters as the only viable alternative to Trump. DeSantis event Tuesday night and four-stop blitz across the state on Wednesday will offer the first test of his ability to build a coalition of voters who can beat the former president. Ive been listening to these politicians talk about securing the border for years and years and years, DeSantis said, in one of many subtle jabs against Trump. I can tell you, if Im president, this will finally be the time where we bring this issue to a conclusion. DeSantis speech introduction was particularly policy heavy, railing against President Bidens handling of the border, fentanyl, the economy, the national debt, energy, China, vaccines and more, lambasting an unaccountable, weaponized administrative state. Despite making a handful of veiled attacks of Trump throughout his address at Eternity Church outside Des Moines, DeSantis also echoed some of the core themes of Trumps movement, criticizing the elites who are imposing their agenda on us. DeSantis aggressive schedule in the Hawkeye State illustrates the intensity with which he intends to brawl with Trump here. He has pitched himself as an energetic executive and the multiple stops appear designed as a demonstration of it. If you were trying to succeed in Iowa, this is the trip you put together, said David Kochel, an Iowa-based Republican strategist who was an adviser to Jeb Bushs presidential campaign. Hes going to draw a lot of media attention. Hell cover a lot of ground in Iowa both ideologically and with different demographics available to him. Its not like Trumps in trouble hes got the biggest current base of support, Kochel continued. But its not a done deal. As DeSantis prepared to take the stage, Trumps campaign roasted him in press releases, declaring DeSantis last trip to Iowa was a failure and highlighting the governors embrace of some pandemic-mitigation measures in 2020. After stops across Iowa on Wednesday and two more days of barnstorming New Hampshire and South Carolina, DeSantis will make the trek back to Des Moines on Saturday to attend Sen. Joni Ernsts annual Roast and Ride fundraiser, a political cattle call being attended by the other major declared and likely candidates besides Trump. DeSantis decision to show up for the event at the Iowa Fairgrounds an announcement only made Tuesday will make him the leading GOP candidate attending. DeSantis campaign operation and his strategy in Iowa draw some parallels to Sen. Ted Cruzs 2016 run. Cruz, who defeated Trump and Sen. Marco Rubio to win the Iowa caucuses that year, has shared a number of top strategists with DeSantis, between the governors own political operation and that of a super PAC supporting his presidential bid. Jeff Roe, Ken Cuccinelli and Chris Wilson are among the Cruz veterans working with Never Back Down, while Sam Cooper and David Polyansky, other past Cruz advisers, are now part of DeSantis political operation. Never Back Down has field workers on the ground in the first four nominating states Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada including just under 200 people who have knocked on 50,000 doors in the Hawkeye State. The super PAC, which is committing to spend $100 million on field operations and is training its door-knockers in a West Des Moines office, has also employed 10 political staffers in Iowa. Kristin Davison, the chief operating officer for Never Back Down, said the group is building an army thats worthy of the enthusiasm thats already behind DeSantis. Trump, meanwhile, is set to arrive in Iowa on Wednesday, taking part in a Des Moines radio interview before meeting with the Westside Conservative Club on Thursday morning just outside the city. Hell tape a Fox News town hall event moderated by Sean Hannity, a televised program that comes on the heels of a widely-watched CNN town hall earlier this month. In an attempt to contrast himself with Trump, someone born into immense wealth and who did not serve in the Vietnam War at a time many of his peers did DeSantis described himself as someone who worked minimum wage jobs through school, and who after Sept. 11, 2001 decided to risk the loss of personal income to enter the military. That, he said to applause, was worth more than anything money can buy. Among a handful of other areas where DeSantis sought to subtly put distance between himself and Trump, he said Florida chose freedom over Fauci-ism during the pandemic. You do not empower somebody like Fauci, he said. You bring him into the office and tell him to pack his bags. In the presser afterward, responding to a question about Trumps comments on his handling of Disney, DeSantis pivoted to the former presidents bizarre and ridiculous criticism of Floridas pandemic response. The former president is now attacking me, saying that [Andrew] Cuomo did better handling Covid than Florida did, DeSantis said. I can tell you this, I could count the number of Republicans in this country on my hands that would rather have lived in New York under Cuomo than lived in Florida in our freedom zone. Asked how he would distinguish himself from Trump, DeSantis said theres no substitute for victory, and argued that there are a lot of voters who just aren't going to ever vote for him. DeSantis bragged that Florida had banned ballot harvesting, a strategy many Republican leaders have begun urging the party to embrace after recent midterm losses. That includes Trump, who once decried the approach but has more recently suggested the GOP adopt such a get-out-the vote method in order to better compete with Democrats. And he touted a six-week abortion ban that he recently signed in Florida, legislation DeSantis had initially avoided discussing on the campaign trail, and which Trump said was too harsh. Iowa has a similar law in effect. DeSantis packed schedule this week highlights his physical and financial ability to hit the road day after day a hustle thats likely to give him a boost with grassroots activists. And despite having aligned himself closely to Trump on many policy issues, DeSantis case to voters centers in part on his generational difference with Trump and his relatability to young, conservative-leaning families. The location where DeSantis held his Tuesday event, a multi-campus church on the outskirts of Des Moines, is helmed by a similarly aged Australian pastor and markets itself to a younger generation of believers a different flavor of conservative Christianity than traditional pew-and-suit congregations. In the same vein that DeSantis opted for an unprecedented Twitter campaign launch last week than a conventional event made for television, the Gen-X Florida governor appears set on emphasizing his youthfulness in the field. The churchs pastor, Jesse Newman, said the DeSantis team called his church to inquire about hosting the event there. The governor received resounding applause when he talked about his efforts to prevent schools from indoctrinating students, an issue he said he views through the lens of a dad. DeSantis then called his wife up to discuss the issue, who apologized for her hoarse voice and explained she had been busy with motherhood duties. Ive been negotiating with a 3-year-old all day today as to why they cannot color with permanent marker on the dining room table, Casey DeSantis said, to laughter. DeSantis is the second-youngest Republican presidential contender this cycle, just behind 37-year-old Vivek Ramaswamy who touts himself as the only millennial in the field and who has also emphasized newer digital communication mediums in his effort to reach voters. I saw the way the press tried to trash him, you know, with the Twitter thing and all of that, but that doesnt mean a whole lot, said Bill Burch, a Des Moines Republican attending DeSantis event Tuesday. It does mean a whole lot he's out stomping and getting the message out, and people are listening. Burch, whose two biggest policy issues are closing the border and expanding the countrys energy supply, said he is turned off by Trumps habit of insulting your competition, as he has done with DeSantis. Gov. Kim Reynolds, who has said she intends to remain neutral ahead of the caucuses, introduced DeSantis with effusive praise on Tuesday, calling him a candidate who has shown us that he can, and all you have to do is look at his record. I have a hunch theyre going to be here a lot, Reynolds said of DeSantis and his wife Casey. If I know anything about these two, its that they will not be outworked. Kelly Garrity contributed to this report. CORRECTION: An earlier version referred to David Polyansky by an incorrect name. You are here: World Flash Ukraine said at least one person was killed and 13 people injured in Kiev and in nearby areas due to Russia's drone attacks overnight Tuesday. A total of 16 facilities, including cars and residential buildings, were damaged in the attacks on Kiev and its outskirts, Ukraine's National Police said in a statement. Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram that falling debris sparked a fire in a high-rise building in the city's southern Holosiivskyi district and three private houses in the eastern Darnytsky and northwestern Podilsky districts. Also on Tuesday, the Russian Defense Ministry said Moscow was attacked by eight "unmanned aerial vehicles" launched by Kiev, and that all of them were shot down. The Ukrainian side denied its direct involvement in the attack on Moscow. Several buildings in Moscow were slightly damaged by the early morning drone attack, said Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, adding that there were no immediate reports of serious injuries. It's officially the end of an era for the original Google Chromecast, with the first-generation model no longer receiving any updates or support, 9to5Google reports. Chromecast first came on the scene in 2013 as a key-sized device that promised to provide a Smart TV experience for $35, and it has done just that. Google has upgraded the initial Chromecast's hardware throughout the years to keep up with streaming denands but is now leaving it behind for good. In a release on Chromecast's informational hub, Google asserted that "Support for Chromecast (1st gen) has ended, which means these devices no longer receive software or security updates, and Google does not provide technical support for them. Users may notice a degradation in performance." Google last updated Chromecast's support page back in April, meaning the announcement has gone unnoticed for some time now. Through the lens of Google alone, a complete pull-back on the 10-year-old Chromecast original has been a long time coming. The company has only looked after the first-gen's bug and security issues (rather than larger-scale updates) since 2019. The last update came in November 2022 and was the first in three years. Google has also released newer versions since the first-gen, like the cheaper $30 Chromecast with Google TV (HD) and the $50 4K model. If you're a loyal first-gen Chromecast user, the only thing to do now is to make sure it's fully upgraded and hope for the best. Rep. Chris Stewart, R-Utah, on Wednesday confirmed he will be leaving his seat in the House of Representatives, citing his wifes health. I can say with pride that I have been an effective leader for my beloved home state, and Im honored to have played an important role in guiding our nation through some troubled times, the lawmaker tweeted Wednesday. But my wifes health concerns have made it necessary that I retire from Congress after an orderly transition can be ensured. The six-term GOP lawmaker did not provide additional details on the health concerns his wife, Evie Stewart, is facing. Under Utah law, Gov. Spencer Cox will call a special election to fill the vacancy in the states 2nd Congressional District, which includes much of western Utah. It's been one of the great honors of my life to represent Utah in the People's House. God bless you all, and God bless America. pic.twitter.com/rEeg6G2ry3 Rep. Chris Stewart (@RepChrisStewart) May 31, 2023 Politics: Biden scores win with debt ceiling deal; progressive revolt or shutdown can't be ruled out Washington: Donald Trump says he can end birthright citizenship, something he didn't do as president The area leans reliably Republican, but any vacancy could make passing legislation in the House more difficult for Republicans, who hold a slim majority of 222 members in the House to 213 Democrats. USA TODAY has reached out to Stewarts office for more information about his departure. 'He has sacrificed' House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said, Youve got to understand why hes doing this its the character of who he is, its because of his wife and taking care of his wife, CNN reported. Its the decision everybody should make at that time. He has sacrificed, his family has sacrificed, but at this moment right now his spouse needs him. So hes made that decision. It was not an easy decision for him. But we will continue to hold that seat, McCarthy continued. The Salt Lake Tribune first reported that the lawmakers plans to step down from Congress. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Republican lawmaker Chris Stewart leaving Congress over wife's health Got sick, had a bad experience eating at a Tri-Cities restaurant? Heres how to report it Have you ever enjoyed a nice meal at a restaurant, only to get home later that evening to find yourself bent over in pain and spending more time with the toilet than with your family? Or perhaps youve been enjoying a nice meal at a restaurant before noticing something that absolutely violates Washington State Retail Food Code. Whatever the problem, somethings not how its supposed to be. Fortunately, its easy in Washington to report a food code or poisoning violation. The Washington State Department of Health oversees food safety regulations, such as implementing the Food Protection Program, which outlines the standards and guidelines for safe foot storage and handling in Washington. But the responsibility for enforcing food regulations and performing inspections falls to Washingtons 35 local health departments. The Tri-Cities fall under the jurisdiction of the Benton-Franklin Health District. All food facilities under Benton-Franklin Health District authority are subject to routine inspections. You can view a database of all Benton-Franklin County food inspections online. Typically, a public health official will call the person who filed the report to ask clarifying questions or to notify them their concern was received and to explain the next steps, Washington State Department of Health spokesperson Kara Kostanich told the Tri-City Herald. Questions vary widely based on what the person is reporting, Kostanich continued. As an example, a public health professional may ask further questions to determine the severity of unsanitary conditions. Or they may ask the person about symptoms and a 3-day meal history if they are reporting an illness. Reporting food poisoning or violations If you visit a restaurant and become sick from eating there or notice any other food violations, you can directly report it to the Benton-Franklin Health District. Heres how: Online complaint Fill out the departments online form The form will ask for your contact information, the name and information of the establishment in question for the violation. Upon filing the complaint, you can select an option that permits a health official to reach out for more information. Phone complaint Call the Benton-Franklin Health District at (509) 460-4205 After the complaint Watch your phone or email as a health official will reach out if you gave them permission. Be prepared to answer specific questions about the violation and food items youve eaten up to three days before becoming ill. Once a complaint is filed, public health officials will either call the business, conduct an inspection, or conduct an illness investigation if an illness was reported. The Department of Health is also developing an online system that will log all complaints into a single database accessible by all health departments, Kostanich said. How to identify food poisoning Food poisoning typically comes from swallowing certain germs that contaminate foods, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Two of the most common germs are Salmonella and E. Coli, and dependent on which germ you swallow, food poisoning can last from hours to days. According to the CDC, some of the most common symptoms of food poisoning are: Diarrhea Stomach pain or cramps Nausea Vomiting Fever The CDC recommends drinking plenty of fluids to keep you hydrated during food poisoning. But there are more severe symptoms that the CDC recommends seeing a doctor for if they persist: Got sick or had a bad experience eating at an Olympia restaurant? Heres how to report it Have you ever enjoyed a nice meal at a restaurant, only to get home later that evening to find yourself bent over in pain and spending more time with the toilet than with your family? Or perhaps youve been enjoying a nice meal at a restaurant before noticing something that absolutely violates Washington State Retail Food Code. Whatever the problem, somethings not how its supposed to be. Fortunately, its easy in Washington to report a food code or poisoning violation. The Washington State Department of Health oversees food safety regulations, such as implementing the Food Protection Program, which outlines the standards and guidelines for safe foot storage and handling in Washington. But the responsibility for enforcing food regulations and performing inspections falls to Washingtons 35 local health departments. Olympia falls under the jurisdiction of the Thurston County Public Health and Social Services. All food facilities under Thurston County Public Health and Social Services authority are subject to routine kitchen inspections. The inspections note 50 potential food safety violations, including high-risk factors that lead directly to foodborne illnesses and low-risk factors, which are defined as good retail practices such as fixing damaged floors and grease accumulation. Typically, a public health official will call the person who filed the report to ask clarifying questions or to notify them their concern was received and to explain the next steps, Washington State Department of Health spokesperson Kara Kostanich told The Olympian. Questions vary widely based on what the person is reporting, Kostanich continued. As an example, a public health professional may ask further questions to determine the severity of unsanitary conditions. Or they may ask the person about symptoms and a 3-day meal history if they are reporting an illness. Reporting food poisoning or violations If you visit a restaurant and become sick from eating there or notice any other food violations, you can directly report it to Thurston County Public Health and Social Services. Heres how: Online complaint Fill out the departments online form The form will ask for your contact information, the name and information of the establishment in question for the violation Photos can also be uploaded to the complaint form if necessary Phone complaint Call Thurston County Public Health and Social Services at (360) 867-2667 After the complaint Watch your phone or email as a health official will reach out Be prepared to answer specific questions about the violation and food items youve eaten up to three days before becoming ill. Once a complaint is filed, public health officials will either call the business, conduct an inspection, or conduct an illness investigation if an illness was reported. The Department of Health is also developing an online system that will log all complaints into a single database accessible by all health departments, Kostanich said. How to identify food poisoning Food poisoning typically comes from swallowing certain germs that contaminate foods, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Two of the most common germs are Salmonella and E. Coli, and dependent on which germ you swallow, food poisoning can last from hours to days. According to the CDC, some of the most common symptoms of food poisoning are: Diarrhea Stomach pain or cramps Nausea Vomiting Fever The CDC recommends drinking plenty of fluids to keep you hydrated during food poisoning. But there are more severe symptoms that the CDC recommends seeing a doctor for if they persist: You gotta taste this: The Piggy Mac at Pucketts Restaurant is a favorite in Franklin Editors note: Reporter Chris Gadd travels across Williamson County in search of the areas best eats. Yeah, we know: Tough job. What dishes should Chris profile next? Send him suggestions at cgadd@tennessean.com. Executive chef and owner Andy Marshall said this dish is a favorite at Puckett's Restaurant in Franklin: Piggy Mac ($15.29). Description: Cherry wood-smoked pulled pork in an iron skillet, topped with white cheddar mac and cheese and biscuit crumbs. Marshall on what makes this dish special: As chefs, we tend to overcomplicate things when crafting a winning dish. The Piggy Mac was not one of those complicated dishes. We focused on our menu favorites and challenged ourselves to create something new with our tried-and-true ingredients. The Piggy Mac at Puckett's Restaurant features cherry wood-smoked pulled pork topped with white cheddar mac and cheese and biscuit crumbs. "Our cherry-smoked BBQ is a crowd favorite, so we started working from there. Our culinary team joined together, and the Piggy Mac was born as we chatted on the porch of one of our restaurants. Chef Keith (West) took the savory flavor of our pork barbecue and smothered it with the richness of a four-cheese macaroni, added dry breadcrumbs and toasted it all together in an iron skillet in the oven. The bubbling presentation had us begging for a spoon to try it. From the first bite, we knew we had to have more. This was a winner! What patrons are saying: Kevin Miller, the self-described mayor of Pucketts in Franklin, eats at the restaurant almost daily. Miller said the restaurant has consistently good food and service. And, though there are plenty of fried options and burgers, he noted there are also multiple salads on the menu. Miller does eat lunch and dinner at Pucketts but hes a regular breakfast patron with a regular seat at the bar. I was walking to a place every morning where you know the people and they ask you what you did yesterday, Miller said. They are very much friends in a way. Kevin Miller, the self-described "mayor of Puckett's," eats at the Franklin restaurant almost daily. About Pucketts: The restaurant's roots go back to the 1950s and a little grocery store in Leipers Fork. Today, the family owned and operated brand has six Tennessee locations and a seventh in Cullman, Alabama. Pucketts, which has regular live music performances, was named one of Tennessees Top 5 Local Restaurants in the Southern Living 2023 The Souths Best Awards and 10 Best Barbecue Restaurants in the U.S. in the Travel Awaits 2022 Best Of Travel Awards. The Franklin Puckett's is located at 120 Fourth Ave. S. For more information, go online to puckettsgro.com. About the owner/chef: Marshall is the founder and CEO of A. Marshall Hospitality, a restaurant management group, where he oversees over 400 employees. The group also owns Americana Taphouse in downtown Franklin; Burger Dandy in downtown Franklin; Pucketts Trolley, the brands mobile food venue; Pucketts Events and Catering; Scouts Pub in Franklin; and Deacons New South, a Southern steakhouse in downtown Nashville. In addition to the restaurants, Marshall serves on the board of the Williamson County Convention and Visitors Bureau and is a board member at the Predators Foundation, the Boys and Girls Club of Maury County, the Williamson County Fair, and Nashville State Community College. More: Preserving Puckett's: The man who helped revive Leiper's Fork is buying the village hub A Tennessee native, Marshall grew up in the grocery business and owned grocery stores before selling them in 1998 and buying Pucketts, a small grocery store in Leipers Fork. He launched a formal dinner and music program to enhance the shop and complement the towns roots. He sold that location in 2007 to branch out his brand that is now A. Marshall Hospitality. Marshall and his wife, Jan, have been married for 38 years and reside in College Grove. They have three children who have all made contributions to the family business. Puckett's Grocery owner Andy Marshall checks on smoked turkeys outside his Leiper's Fork store on the day before Thanksgiving in 1999. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Pucketts Piggy Mac is a rich and savory favorite in Franklin Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday signed a bill that supporters say will increase accountability in the insurance industry. Lawmakers unanimously passed the bill during the legislative session that ended May 5. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< It came amid widespread problems in the property-insurance market and after lawmakers passed measures in recent months to help shield insurers from lawsuits. The bill (SB 7052) will boost state oversight and regulations, including increasing fines that regulators can slap on insurers, requiring property insurers to use claims-handling manuals, and requiring that rate filings reflect changes in laws aimed at helping insurers. House Speaker Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast, issued a statement Wednesday that said the bill increases accountability of insurers and transparency in the marketplace. It not only empowers homeowners but also cultivates market-driven competition, ultimately leading to lower costs. By establishing clear standards, fostering consumer trust and promoting fair practices, we can pave the way for a resilient and affordable insurance landscape that benefits homeowners and their communities. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Gov. Kay Ivey Tuesday signed a ban on transgender college athletes participating in sports that correlate with their affirmed gender, the latest in a string of attacks on LGBTQ Alabamians and transgender youth in particular. Look, if you are a biological male, you are not going to be competing in womens and girls sports in Alabama, Ivey said in a statement Tuesday. HB 261, sponsored by Rep. Susan DuBose, R-Hoover, expands the current ban on transgender athletes in high schools in high school competition. That legislation was signed into law by Ivey in 2021. The legislation would require college athletes to play sports that align with their biological sex. I would like to say that I think this speaks to the fact that Alabama has common sense, that we stand with science, that we want to protect women and make sure they have a safe and level playing field when it comes to competitive athletics at the college level, DuBose said in a phone interview on Tuesday. My goal is to protect women athletes, DuBose said. Protestors gather on the Alabama State Supreme Court steps as they participate in the Drag Me to the Capitol march and rally against anti-trans bills in Montgomery, Alabama, on Tuesday, May 16, 2023. The march went from the State Supreme Court building to the State Capitol and then to the Alabama Statehouse. It is not clear that transgender athletes actually have any advantages or disadvantages over cisgender athletes. An April article in Science said the results from tests do not allow the development of evidence-based policies on the issue. An Inside Higher Ed article from last year said there were approximately 30 transgender individuals playing NCAA sports, out of 480,000 athletes. Shannon Minter, legal director at the National Center for Lesbian Rights, said the country in the midst of an extraordinary and unprecedented avalanche of state bills that are focused on transgender kids, a small group of kids. These bills and increasingly laws have proliferated, and proliferated dramatically, in the past two years, but especially this year. The number has been off the charts, he said. These bills stem from a political effort to scare the public about a group most people dont know anything about, he said, which led to state legislatures introducing or passing laws that are cruel, devastating, completely misguided bills [and] are based on profound misinformation. With transgender people, were still at that stage where most people do not know one single transgender person. Theyre very vulnerable to hearing lies and misinformation and fear mongering. So that that campaign of misinformation has been very successful, Minter said. Dillon Nettles, the policy and advocacy director at the ACLU of Alabama, said in a statement that the bill is wrong and unnecessary, and would have unintended consequences. Its only purpose is to shame transgender people publicly. The reality is that trans folks will always be part of our schools, universities, and our community, Nettles said. Rep. Neil Rafferty, D-Birmingham, maintained that the legislation wont solve a real problem in Alabama. Its targeting a fraction of a percent of people, he said. If we really want to help women and girls in this state, then we should focus on making sure that they have access to great healthcare, great education and opportunity. He brought up the mass shooting in Dadeville that occurred in April that left at least 32 people injured and killed four more. Some of the Dadeville victims were athletes, right? This bill does nothing to have prevented or protected them. We need to be making sure that were taking gun violence and measures to protect our youth from gun violence, which is the number one killer of youth in the United States now, Rafferty said. The vote was not along party lines. It passed on an 83-5 vote with 14 abstentions in the House, and it passed 26-4 in the Senate. DuBose called the bill bipartisan. Protestors participate in the Drag Me to the Capitol march and rally against anti-trans bills in Montgomery, Alabama, on Tuesday, May 16, 2023. The march went from the state Supreme Court building to the State Capitol and then to the Alabama Statehouse. I was hoping that she would [sign the bill]. I figured that she would, but you dont want to be presumptuous, DuBose said. I think thats wonderful news for the state of Alabama. In the House, four Democrats voted for the legislation: House Minority Leader Rep. Anthony Daniels, D-Huntsville; Rep. Juandalynn Givan, D-Birmingham; Rep. Patrick Sellers, D-Birmingham and Rep. Pebblin Warren, D-Tuskegee. Only five voted against it, and 14 Democrats abstained from voting. In the Senate, one Democratic lawmaker voted for the bill, Sen. Robert Stewart, D-Selma, and another, Sen. Rodger Smitherman, D-Birmingham, abstained. DuBose said passing this legislation was part of the reason she ran for office, and as a freshman legislator, she didnt want to sit back and listen, as most freshmen do. She wanted to pass a significant piece of legislation in her first year. If we allow trans women to start competing and taking spots on teams, all of that will change, she said. Alabama Reflector is part of States Newsroom, an independent nonprofit website covering politics and policy in state capitals around the nation. This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signs ban on transgender college athletes Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker speaks at the University of Illinois Springfield Wednesday, May 31. 2023. On Wednesday, local political and educational leaders touted higher education spending - the likes of which have not been seen in 20 years they say - included in the recently passed $50.4 billion state budget. Gov. JB Pritzker at the University of Illinois-Springfield Student Union touted the budget, now awaiting his signature, as including several line items for construction projects on campus and increases investment into the Monetary Award Program by $100 million. Fiscal year 2024, starting in July, will have $701 million in total investment into program a 75% increase since the beginning of the Pritzker administration. More: 'Moral document': House sends $50.4 billion budget to governor's desk UIS Chancellor Janet Gooch said more than 40% of the university's students receive MAP grants, a program available to students from Illinois that demonstrate financial need. Recent first-generation graduate Amanda Jones was one of them. "I believe this trend of funding education for marginalized and minoritized people should continue, as it allows the opportunity for them to create better lives for themselves and their families than they ever could have imagined," she said. Increased funding into the program were among several education-based pushes by Pritzker that made its way into the final product. The last fiscal year also saw no MAP applicants be turned down, he added. "With this new budget we're making it possible for nearly every student from a low, moderate or middle-income family to go to community college tuition free," Pritzker said, kicking off a statewide tour detailing the budget. "Getting a college or university degree shouldn't strap you in debt for the rest of your life." State Rep. Mike Coffey, R-Springfield, answers questions at the University of Illinois Springfield Wednesday, May 31. 2023. Rep. Mike Coffey, R-Springfield, was also in attendance and expressed support for several appropriations and reappropriations heading towards UIS. He and all other Republicans in both chambers, however, voted against the budget. Coffey's reasons for his 'no' vote were namely due to another increase to state legislator pay and feeling left-out on budget negotiations with the super-majority party. Coffey and Sen. Steve McClure, R-Springfield were joined by one of a handful of Democrats such as Sen. Doris Turner, D-Springfield, in opposing the budget. Contact Patrick Keck: 312-549-9340, pkeck@gannett.com, twitter.com/@pkeckreporter. This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Gov. Pritzker touts higher education investments included in new budget Governor of Belgorod Oblast complains about hundreds of strikes every day Vyacheslav Gladkov, the governor of Russia's Belgorod Oblast, said that on 30 May, up to a hundred strikes were recorded in his region, and 215 shells landed in the oblast's Shebekinsky District. Source: Gladkov on Telegram Quote: "In the Belgorodsky District, nine strikes were recorded over the past day. All of them fell on Zhuravlevka, the village was attacked with artillery. There were no injuries, damage was done to one household. In the Volokonovsky district, the Stary farmstead was hit with a mortar 12 times. As a result, no one was injured, and no damage was done. 30 strikes were recorded in the Grayvoronsky city region. 21 mortar bombs were fired in the outskirts of the village of Kozinka, and nine mortar shells were launched at the checkpoint. There were no injuries, windows were broken in one household, and a wall collapsed. A Russian drone was shot down near the village of Antonovka. In the Krasnoyaruzhsky District, artillery twice attacked the outskirts of the village of Grafovka. There were no injuries. A local power line was damaged, and it has been restored to this point. Near the village of Vyazovoye, the attack was carried out by a Russian kamikaze drone. As a result, no one was injured, and there was no damage. In one of the districts of Staryi Oskol city, a UAV was detected while locals mower weeds in the Sorokinsky rural area. The territory is cordoned off. The circumstances are being investigated. Bomb technicians are working on the spot. 215 shells were fired at the Shebekinsky City district. 49 projectiles hit the city of Shebekino: 37 times [they were launched] from MLRS, and 12 from tubed artillery." Details: Gladkov claims that a person was killed and two wounded in the attack. He claims that an administrative building, a shopping centre, and a public space were damaged in the city. According to him, 47 shells from tubed artillery were fired at the village of Novaya Tavolzhanka. A power substation was damaged. In the village of Arkhangelsk, six strikes were recorded. According to Gladkov, 9 and 8 mortar bombs were fired at the village of Terezovka and the Stadnikov farmstead, respectively. On the Balki farmstead, five strikes were recorded; two drones were reportedly downed. 57 strikes were recorded in the village of Murom. An administrative building was damaged. 10 mortar bombs were fired at the village of Pervomaiskoye. Three mortar bombs were fired at the villages of Meshkovo and Hrafovka; 18 artillery shells hit the village of Bezlyudivka. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! The Grand Canal of Venice Turned Green. Heres What We Know So Far Colourful exteriors of villas and palazzo with the tranquil waters of the Grand Canal in the Venice Lagoon area. The Grand Canal of Venice recently turned green, which left authorities scratching their heads at first. Was this yet another case of vandalism, or something close to it? Italy is fed up with tourists and locals damaging its historical treasures. Rome in particular has witnessed this kind of behavior on many occasions. One man drove his Maserati down the Spanish Steps. Tourists carved names into the ancient Colosseum. And last week, a climate activism group called Ultima Generazione dumped charcoal in the Trevi Fountain and two other famous fountains in The Eternal City. What Caused The Grand Canal To Turn Green? Local authorities discovered the chemical that caused the water to change color is called fluorescein. Its non-toxic and is often employed for underwater construction projects. The Regional Agency for the Environment, which is based in Venice, said the chemical was likely put in the water on purpose. People living close to the Rialto Bridge took note of the unusual substance, which continued to permeate as the day elapsed. However, this didnt stop the daily flow of life. Gondolas and other water vessels continued to move along as usual, though those on board probably had questions about the waters color. What Happens Now? Venetian authorities explained that the culprit isnt known, but this could be yet another stunt by climate activists. CNN Travel reported, Further tests are expected later this week, which could help identify the exact quantity of the substance in the water. The Grand Canal has turned green before. In 1968, when the Venice Biennale was taking place, an artist poured the same chemical into the water. This was also an act of protest of sorts. The Canals Are Beloved in Venice Venice, like Amsterdam, is known for its many canals. Venice has about 150 canals, some of which are big enough for larger watercraft. The Grand Canal is the busiest, especially when the summer tourists visit. This canal is distinctive for its S formation. The other two major canals in the city are The Giudecca and The Cannaregio. Flash A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said Tuesday that over the past three decades and more, China has sent over 50,000 peacekeepers to participate in United Nations peacekeeping operations (UNPKOs) in more than 20 countries and regions, and that Chinese Blue Helmets have become a vital force in the UN's peacekeeping efforts. May 29, 2023 was the 21st International Day of UN Peacekeepers. Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a daily news briefing when answering a relevant query. Noting that UN peacekeeping missions are an important means to advance international peace and security, Mao said that over the past seven decades or so, the UN has conducted over 70 missions, rallying more than a million peacekeepers under the UN flag and making outstanding contributions to safeguarding and restoring regional peace and assisting in the resolution of regional conflicts. "The Blue Helmets have become a symbol of peace and hope, winning wide acclaim from the international community," she said. In 1990, China sent military observers to the UN, which marked the beginning of its participation in UNPKOs. In 1992, China dispatched its first formed military unit of Blue Helmets to participate in UNPKOs, Mao said. Over the past three decades and more, China has sent over 50,000 peacekeepers to participate in UNPKOs in more than 20 countries and regions. A total of 25 Chinese peacekeepers have made the ultimate sacrifice, Mao added. "China is the second-largest contributor to UN peacekeeping assessments and the largest troop contributor to peacekeeping operations among the five permanent members of the Security Council," Mao said, adding that more than 2,200 Chinese officers are working in eight peacekeeping mission areas now. Chinese peacekeepers adhere to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, act in strict accordance with their mandate, and faithfully fulfill peacekeeping missions, making important contributions to safeguarding world peace and promoting common development, Mao added. "Against complex and severe international security situations, the role and significance of UNPKOs have become more prominent," Mao said, adding that China will continue to work in close cooperation with the international community to increase the efficacy and efficiency of UNPKOs so that they can play a bigger role in safeguarding international peace and security. My grandfather hid the emotional toll of World War II from his family for decades For decades after returning home from World War II, my grandfather did not talk about his wartime experiences. Frank Murphy flew 21 perilous missions as a navigator of a B-17 for the Eighth Air Forces 100th Bomb Group, nicknamed the Bloody Hundredth. The day his plane was shot down in 1943, two of the men in his crew died, and my grandfather considered himself lucky to have parachuted out of his burning aircraft and be captured by the Nazis. Frank Murphy, the grandfather of CNN's Chloe Melas, after he was captured and taken a prisoner of war by the Nazis in 1943. - Courtesy Murphy Collection For the next 18 months, he would endure deplorable conditions as a German prisoner of war, take part in a harrowing death march in subzero temperatures and by the time US Gen. George S. Pattons troops liberated him, he had lost over 50 pounds and was riddled with dysentery, pneumonia and lice. Everyone could see the physical toll of war on his body, but we didnt know about his invisible wounds. That is until 2001, more than 50 years after returning home, when my grandfather wrote a memoir, Luck of the Draw: My Story of the Air War in Europe, for our family. He originally self-published the book for our family but as I got older, I felt his story needed to reach a wider audience. After several years of gathering his original materials and photographs, I partnered with St. Martins Press to release the book in February and it is now a New York Times bestseller. In his book, he wrote, I often wonder why Providence allowed me to survive when so many others did not. My mother and his other three children said that their dad never spoke about the war during their childhood. It wasnt until my mom read his book that she truly knew what he had gone through. Even my grandmother Ann, his wife of 50 years, told me that she did not even know that her soon-to-be-husband had been a prisoner of war until right before they were married. What is PTSD? Researching my grandfathers time during the war, Ive often wondered if he had post-traumatic stress disorder. I may never know whether he had PTSD or not but in the 78 years since World War II ended, its so vital that the national conversation around this important topic is moving forward. Frank Murphy was shot down on his 21st mission while flying over Munster, Germany. Two of the men on his crew died that day. - Courtesy Murphy Collection Its had different names throughout history. After World War I, it was shell shock; post-World War II it was known as combat fatigue, and after Vietnam it was called post-Vietnam syndrome. In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association officially recognized it as post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, series of events or set of circumstances. An individual may experience this as emotionally or physically harmful or life-threatening and may affect mental, physical, social, and/or spiritual well-being, according to the American Psychiatric Associations website. Examples include natural disasters, serious accidents, terrorist acts, war/combat, rape/sexual assault, historical trauma, intimate partner violence and bullying. Do veterans have a brain injury? Now professionals such as psychologist Shauna Springer and psychiatrist Frank Ochberg are advocating calling it post-traumatic brain injury. I refer to it as an injury because Ive seen that theres a biological component to being exposed to trauma as well as a psychological component that has always been with us, Springer, chief psychologist at the Stella Center, told me. And now I think were on the cusp of evolving the term further. Post-traumatic brain injury has always existed, Springer said, and people are finally talking about it. Its kind of like saying that because the divorce rate was so much lower in previous generations that everybody had these great marriages, she said, but actually that was a factor of how much stigma there was about divorce and how dependent women were financially at that time without their own career options. Forty percent of medical discharges during WWII were for psychiatric conditions, most for combat stress, according to the National World War II Museum In New Orleans. Veterans keep quiet about trauma But veterans didnt always mention their trauma when they came home from the war. When your grandfather and my grandfather served in World War II, they didnt talk about it, Paul Rieckhoff, founder and CEO of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, told me. They came home and too often, you know, their therapy was drinking, he said. There was a generation of folks who had tremendous trauma and pain, and that overflowed into their families in ways that we still cant even quantify. My grandfather was in the infamous Stalag Luft III prison camp, where The Great Escape took place. In his memoir, he writes about going to bed hungry, freezing and terrified of never knowing when the war would end. A prisoner of war experiences real-time feelings of helplessness and youre on-your-own that cannot be imagined unless you have been there, my grandpa relates in Luck of the Draw. Inside Stalag 7A where Frank Murphy was a prisoner of war during WWII. - Courtesy Murphy Collection It is difficult to put into words the sense of powerlessness and vulnerability one experiences when standing completely defenseless before a formidable armed wartime enemy of your country, knowing that the entire might of the United States is of no benefit to you. I have his book to remind me, but its hard to imagine what else he must have gone through, and the struggles he went through alone, once he was back home. How are veterans today? With so many US troops fighting abroad in Iraq and Afghanistan over the past 20 years, the problems my grandpa faced havent gone away. About 16 veterans commit suicide each day in the United States, according to a report by the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Asked for comment by CNN, the VA did not specify how many of those suicides were related to post-traumatic stress. I became active in the fight for our veterans when I joined the board of directors for the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force near Savannah, Georgia, in 2015 in honor of my grandfathers service. I found allies in the cause when I joined the board, including former Texas Gov. Rick Perry. Perry, who has been a vocal supporter of our nations veterans, was a pilot in the Air Force before entering politics and eventually becoming the US secretary of energy. His father, like my grandfather, served in the Eighth Air during WWII. My instinct here is warriors are very proud, and showing weakness in any form has historically been frowned upon, he told me. Perrys attention to the emotional toll of war became heightened when he met Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell. Luttrell had just returned home from a harrowing experience participating in Operation Red Wings in Afghanistan in 2005. (It went on to become a best-selling book and a 2013 film starring Mark Wahlberg called Lone Survivor.) Perry and his wife took Luttrell into their home and got him the psychological support he needed. Chloe Melas is shown with her grandparents, Ann and Frank Murphy, in Atlanta in1989. (Courtesy Melas Family Collection) - Courtesy Melas Family Collection Do psychedelic-assisted therapies help? At same time, Perry was introduced to Amber and Marcus Capone, a couple who had started an organization called Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions, or VETS, which provides resources, research and advocacy for US military veterans seeking treatment with psychedelic-assisted therapies. They started the group after Marcus Capone returned home from multiple combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan and was having suicidal thoughts. He didnt understand why he couldnt get better, Amber Capone said. He was trying so hard. I just thought of our kids and them living the rest of their lives without a father and how this would impact generations to come, and I just thought, I cant stop fighting for him. Six years later, VETS says it has provided funding for more than 700 veterans to get access to psychedelic treatments at centers outside the country due to issues with legalization. This is one of the reasons Perry has devoted years to supporting veterans and bipartisan legislation for psychedelic therapy for veterans. I know this whole concept, Rick Perrys name and psychedelics in the same sentence, five years ago I wouldve kind of looked at you and said, What are you talking about? Perry told me. But I know kids that were really sick that are now about as close to normal as you can get. The legalization of psychedelic treatments varies in the United States. Only a handful of states such as New York, California and Arizona have active legislation proposed to decriminalize plant-based hallucinogens, such as psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, and dimethyltryptamine, which is found in some plants used to brew ayahuasca. While Oregon and Colorado are the only two US states to have decriminalized psychedelic mushrooms for those over 21, other states such as Texas and Maryland are conducting clinical trials with MDMA and ibogaine for those suffering from issues such as PTSD and depression. Dr. David Rabin, a neuroscientist and board-certified psychiatrist, has been studying the effects of chronic stress on mental and physical health for nearly 20 years. We know that hugs feel good. We know that music makes us feel good if we like listening to our favorite songs, right? That is intuitive, but we dont necessarily remember to breathe when were stressed out, Rabin said. Psychedelic medicine is interesting because it works when its used properly, he said. It works as a therapy amplifier because it molecularly seems to do something in the brain that amplifies the neural pathways of safety that are set up by the therapeutic environment. Springer cofounded the Stella Center, a network of clinics that offer ketamine infusion therapy and dual sympathetic reset for those suffering from post-traumatic stress. Dual sympathetic reset is a procedure involving a local anesthetic injected next to a mass of sympathetic nerves in the neck called the stellate ganglion to help regulate an overactive sympathetic nervous system, according to Stellas website. For some, its medication; for some, its a service dog, said Rieckhoff of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. And I think everybodys got to figure out what their right prescription is to meet their unique situation. Another individual bringing resources to veterans and their families is ABC News journalist Bob Woodruff. While reporting in the field in Iraq in 2006, Woodruff had a near-death experience that changed the course of his life. An improvised explosive device struck him and his cameraman, and Woodruff was subsequently kept in a medically induced coma for 36 days. During his recovery, he and his wife, Lee Woodruff, were inspired to launch their nonprofit, the Bob Woodruff Foundation, after getting to know veterans who were dealing with the impact of hidden injuries such as traumatic brain injuries. I would say almost every American wants to do something for veterans who served, but many dont really know exactly where that support should go because its very complicated, Bob Woodruff said. We just kind of help people who want to do something, find the right direction to help people. To date, the foundation says its invested over $124 million in these programs and has given over 585 grants to veterans and their families As for the future, Perry said its about continuing the conversation. I think mental health is the most undiagnosed and unknown malady that we have in modern society, potentially, he said. It was there all along. Correction: An earlier version of this story misstated how long Bob Woodruff was in a medically induced coma and misstated the term dual sympathetic reset. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Tan France welcomed his second child, Isaac France, over Memorial Day weekend. (Chris Pizzello / Invision / AP) "Queer Eye" star Tan France and his husband, Rob, welcomed baby No. 2 last weekend. France on Tuesday shared a photo of himself and Rob all smiles carrying their two young children, introducing the baby to his followers but concealing their sons' faces. Baby boy Isaac "completes our little family perfectly," the "Next in Fashion" co-host wrote in the Instagram caption. The "Naturally Tan" author also expressed gratitude in the post to the person who carried their child, extending a "thank you to our incredible warrior of a surrogate, for giving us the greatest gift one could ever give." On Wednesday, France posted an Instagram Story that featured his swaddled newborn listening to music. "Introduced our new baby to @billieeilish and @finneas," he wrote. "This was the first music Ismail heard, just after he was born, so we did the same for Isaac. He's already a fan." The 40-year-old French-tuck fanatic told People magazine earlier this month that his firstborn, Ismail, 1, was going to be in for the "shock of his life" when the new baby arrived. France, who has Pakistani heritage, also told People that he is excited to expose his sons to his culture and that Ismail is learning to speak Hindi. "I only speak Hindi with him, so he's starting to say my words now, which makes me so happy," he said. The Fab Five were quick to rally around their co-star in the comments section of his baby announcement. "So happy for the world to meet your new beautiful baby!!! What a blessed family," wrote talk-show host Karamo Brown. "My babies havin babies," co-star and interior designer Bobby Berk added. Hairstylist Jonathan Van Ness commented: "Awee Tannay!!!! Cutest family." Nigel Xavier, fashion designer and Season 2 winner of "Next in Fashion," shared his congratulations as well, saying, "Ayyyyy!!!! Congrats Tan! Family getting bigger!" This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Greene leaning toward yes on s sandwich debt bill but she also wants impeachment Greene leaning toward yes on s sandwich debt bill but she also wants impeachment Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) said Tuesday that shes inclined to support the bipartisan debt ceiling proposal set to hit the House floor Wednesday, but she first wants to secure a commitment from GOP leaders to move several other proposals in the future, including the impeachment of President Biden or a top cabinet official. If you have to eat a shit sandwich, you want to have sides, OK? It makes it much better, Greene told reporters just outside the Capitol office of Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). So what Im looking for is, Im looking for some sides and some desserts. Greene named two sides in particular: A vote on a balanced budget amendment and another on legislation to prevent the hiring of new IRS agents not only in 2024, as the bipartisan debt-limit bill would do but also in the years to follow. President Biden last year signed legislation providing the IRS with $80 billion over a decade to streamline customer service, update technology and hire auditors to go after those who dont pay the taxes they owe. Republicans have attacked the extra funding, arguing falsely that the IRS intends to use it to hire 87,000 new agents to target middle-class workers, particularly Republicans. There were audits and conservative groups were targeted, Greene said. One of the sides I would like to see with this shit sandwich is a way to completely wipe out the 87,000 IRS agents. Then she named her beautiful dessert. Somebody needs to be impeached, Greene said. She singled out Alejandro Mayorkas, the secretary of the Homeland Security Department, as the lowest hanging fruit in the eyes of Republicans for his handling of the migrant crisis at the southern border. The border is a serious issue that matters to everyone all over the country, even the Democrat mayor of New York City, the Democrat mayor in Chicago, and just people everywhere, she said. Lax security at the border has also allowed the flow of illicit drugs from Mexico, Greene continued, which in turn has contributed to the deadly fentanyl crisis across the United States. Three hundred Americans are dying every single day, she said. Mayorkas, and I argue Biden as well President Biden both of them should be impeached for that. Greene said the proposals shes seeking would not be attached to the debt-ceiling bill, but could come later. It doesnt have to happen necessarily today, she said. But it can happen quickly, and Im working on that. Greene emphasized that she remains undecided on Wednesdays debt ceiling vote Im still coming to my decision, she said but she also suggested those Republicans fighting to kill the proposal were playing into the hands of Senate Democratic leaders who would prefer a clean debt ceiling hike without the GOP spending cuts. She predicted Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) with an assist from GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham (S.C.) would attempt to attach the proposal to more funding for the war in Ukraine, which she opposes. I dont want to see that happen, she said. I dont want to see our group responsible for more funding to Ukraine. The comments arrive as McCarthy and his leadership team are racing to shore up GOP support for the debt ceiling proposal they secured Saturday with the White House following tough-fought negotiations that spanned most of the month. The Treasury Department has warned that, without congressional action, the government will default on its obligations June 5 for the first time in the nations history. A group of conservatives has balked at the agreement, saying it doesnt contain nearly the level of spending cuts needed to rein in deficits and the national debt. Some of those conservatives are now floating the notion that theyll try to topple McCarthy from the Speakership for his handling of the negotiations. Greene, however, threw cold water on that idea, praising McCarthy for his work ethic and blasting his conservative detractors for dividing the party. I think some of this talk is maybe for attention, maybe for fundraising, she said. Its not serious, and it would be a horrible decision. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) nominally broke his silence on the impeachment of Ken Paxton, the states far-right attorney general, on Wednesday when he formally named Paxtons replacement: John Scott, a former Texas secretary of state and deputy attorney general. The governor did not, however, offer any direct comment on the accusations against Paxton or reveal whether he would support Paxton through his impeachment trial. [Scotts] decades of experience and expertise in litigation will help guide him while serving as the states top law enforcement officer, Abbott said in a statement. Paxton was suspended from his job Saturday when the Texas state House voted overwhelmingly to approve articles of impeachment against him over the staunch objections of former President Donald Trump. Yet Trump will also be familiar with Scott, who represented the former president in one of his many unsuccessful attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election albeit briefly. Texas state law dictates that the governor can appoint an interim attorney general pending the final outcome of an impeachment trial in the state Senate; Paxtons trial is expected to start no later than Aug. 28. A history of scandal caught up to Paxton in recent weeks as state lawmakers were forced to consider whether to greenlight $3.3 million in taxpayer funds to settle a whistleblower lawsuit against the attorney general. Many in the Texas GOP, including House Speaker Dade Phelan, are against using taxpayer money to settle the lawsuit, which was brought on when a group of Paxtons aides came forward accusing him of unethical conduct. Several of the aides were subsequently fired in alleged retaliation. The group had concerns over Paxtons relationship with a GOP political donor, the Austin-based real estate developer Nate Paul. They said Paxton was using the power of his office to help Paul with business entanglements in exchange for an elaborate home remodel and a job for a woman with whom Paxton was allegedly having an affair. Prior to the whistleblower suit, Paxton was charged with securities fraud in a 2015 case that, remarkably, has yet to go to trial. A 45-year-old man seriously injured in an August triple shooting outside of a Kansas City bar died of his injuries nearly nine months afterward, according to police. On Aug. 28, around 2:30 a.m., Kansas City police officers were called to investigate a noise complaint at the Peppermill Lounge at 11612 Hickman Mills Drive. As the officers were on scene, they heard several gunshots and saw a large crowd of people. Two gunshot victims were found at the shooting scene one in the street, another in a nearby vehicle and a third was dropped off at the hospital that morning, according to police. Over this past weekend, the Jackson County Medical Examiners Office contacted police advising that one of the shooting victims had died, Sgt. Jake Becchina, a Kansas City Police Department spokesman, said in an email Tuesday. The victim was identified by police as Tyler E. Brown. The investigation was being handled by Kansas City homicide detectives. A person of interest in the shooting was identified by police and a case file was being sent to the Jackson County Prosecutors Office for review, Becchina said. Browns death was to be added to Kansas Citys homicide total for 2022, Becchina said. Last year, the city saw 171 other homicides, marking it the second-deadliest year on record, according to data maintained by The Star. Hate crimes were staged by homeowner behind on his payments, Florida cops say Two Florida house fires that appeared to be racially motivated were staged hate crimes, and its the property owner who faces charges, according to the Clay County Sheriffs Office. George Carneiro is accused of resorting to arson after he got behind on his payments for the two newly built homes, investigators said in a news release. Both fires occurred March 13 in the same Clay Hill neighborhood, causing substantial property damage, officials said. The unincorporated Clay Hill community is about 36 miles southwest of Jacksonville. The investigation led to Carneiro following the discovery of a video from March 12, 2023, which captured one of Carneiros employees purchasing fuel tanks with cash at a Walmart, the sheriffs office said. This video evidence was key in establishing a connection between Carneiro and the arson. Carneiro owned the homes that were burned and bank records revealed that he was significantly behind on his payments. ...The fires were originally staged with false evidence of a hate crime to conceal the true motive. A warrant allowed detectives to geographically track Carneiros whereabouts during the fires, officials said. He has been charged with burning to defraud the insurer and false and fraudulent insurance claims related to arson, the sheriffs office said. Investigators have not revealed specifics about the racist messages, but TV station WTLV reports the hand-scrawled signs opposed the possibility of Latino families moving into the vacant homes. Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook revealed the hate crime investigation in a March 13 Facebook post, noting the messages left behind indicated a potential bias based motive. This week, she applauded those who helped disprove the scenario. I have zero tolerance for anyone who comes into our community and uses hate as a cover for their own schemes, Cook said in a Facebook post. We are fortunate that incidents like this are extremely rare in Clay County, and I appreciate the community members who came forward with information on the case. Watch as deputy helps deliver baby along Florida highway and has parents laughing 911 call about fight ends with Florida cop separating 2 brawling goats, sheriff says 13-year-old boy shot Florida cop, sheriff says. Police shot him back Faced with record-breaking heat, Vietnam's capital Hanoi has turned off some street lights to save electricity Faced with record-breaking heat, Vietnam's capital Hanoi has turned off some street lights to save electricity as demand for air conditioning soars. Parks in the city of eight million people are now plunged into total darkness after 11 pm, while two-thirds of street lights are also switched off at the same hour. Scientists have warned that global warming is intensifying extreme weather events such as heatwaves. In early May, Vietnam recorded its highest-ever temperature -- 44.1 degrees Celsius (111.38 degrees Fahrenheit) -- breaking a previous record set in 2019. The country sweltered under a heatwave in April, and another in late May, and state electricity company EVN has warned that huge demand from air conditioners and fans has put the national power system under strain. Adding to the problems, a severe drought in northern Vietnam means water levels at hydropower dams are 30 to 40 percent lower than normal. "I am worried about a power shortage, which may badly impact us during the hot summer," Hanoi resident Do Tung Duong said while on a walk in the dim city centre. Another resident, Vu Thi Hoa, told AFP she agreed with the measure to cut public lighting. "We should turn off unnecessary electric equipment, especially the lights. It feels hotter if there are too many lights on," she said. "We need power for fans and air conditioners. It will be terrible if there is a power cut." Hanoi Public Lighting Company HAPULICO reduced the city's street lights in response to EVN's calls for energy saving. Public lighting is switched on half an hour later than usual, and turned off half an hour sooner. Although some cuts are made to street lights every year, "the power saving scheme is in a wider area this year, covering 70 percent of the city's public lighting system," HAPULICO deputy director Le Trung Kien told local media. "We still ensure enough lighting for traffic, security and order." HAPULICO said the cuts may last until the end of August. tmh/aph/pdw/qan A poster with pictures of, from right, King Abdullah II, Crown Prince Hussein, Saudi architect Rajwa Alseif and Queen Rania, is hanged at the front of a building in the capital Amman, Jordan, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. Crown Prince Hussein and Saudi architect Rajwa Alseif are to be married on Thursday at a palace wedding in Jordan, a Western-allied monarchy that has been a bastion of stability for decades as Middle East turmoil has lapped at its borders. (AP Photo/Nasser Nasser) The Middle Eastern country of Jordan is set to host its biggest royal wedding in years on Thursday as the countrys young Crown Prince Hussein exchanges vows with Rajwa Alseif, daughter of one of Saudi Arabias wealthiest and most influential families. With a VIP list that includes First Lady Jill Biden, White House climate envoy John Kerry and members of several European and Asian royal families, the wedding is sure to provide plenty of fodder for tabloids and gossip columns. But the ceremony will reverberate across the region in other ways as well. It is a test of sorts for Jordans ruling family, which has gone through a rough patch in recent years due to economic troubles and some public infighting. It deepens the ties between two countries in a turbulent region. And perhaps most importantly, it will give the world its first glimpse of the man tapped to one day rule this desert kingdom. Longtime AP journalist Josef Federman has been covering the Middle East for two decades, and in 2019 began overseeing all coverage of Jordan. He says it's a strong U.S. ally and seen as a pro-Western bulwark and source of stability in a volatile region. Here, Federman breaks down what this wedding means for the country, for the region and, of course, for the new royal couple. FOR JORDAN The royal wedding is a big deal for Jordan's royal family. Its a chance for the monarchy to show its best face to its own public and also to the outside world after a rough couple of years. Jordan has lots of challenges, lots of problems. It is home to a huge population of refugees who fled war in neighboring Syria and neighboring Iraq, and of course a large Palestinian population as well. Relations with Israel have been strained for the past few years. Its economy is in poor shape. Its a country with few natural resources. Its even been been dealing with some palace intrigue. For the past two years, the former crown prince Hamzah has been under house arrest after the king accused him of insubordination. Hamzah was a popular figure with the Jordanian public especially in poorer tribal areas. It is rare for the royal family to air its dirty laundry like that, and the king's crackdown on his half brother certainly raised some eyebrows. So now, at least for a day, this is a time for the monarchy to celebrate and try to repair its tarnished image. But that may not be so easy. We will see lots of pomp and circumstance. Hussein's parents, King Abdullah II and Queen Rania, have global star appeal. We will see visiting VIPs, European royalty, Asian royalty from Japan. John Kerry and Jill Biden will be representing the U.S. The royal family wants to have a happy day. They want to celebrate. But an extravagant wedding could also alienate the masses of people who are unemployed or living in deep poverty. They will have to tread carefully. FOR THE REGION This wedding is creating a union of people from the highest levels of important countries. That always packs a punch. Jordan is seen as a strategic ally for the West. It may be poor, but its location gives it great importance. It's in the heart of the Middle East. It borders a number of problematic countries: Syria, with a civil war; Iraq, which is recovering from war; and Israel and the West Bank, which are in a constant state of friction. So Jordan is an important source of stability for the region. Saudi Arabia is important for other reasons. It is an immensely wealthy country. It's a leading oil producer and a rising power globally. Traditionally it's been a key U.S. ally, though that has begun to change. You see it making up with Iran. You see it forging ties with China, resisting U.S. requests to pump more oil. So these two countries now are coming together at the highest levels. Jordan depends heavily on international aid. But it has seen aid from wealthy Gulf oil states like Saudi Arabia decrease in recent years. This wedding is likely raising some hopes in Jordan of restoring that flow of aid. Now, we dont know when the crown prince is going to assume the throne. But whenever that happens he will inherit a country with huge challenges, especially for the younger generation, people his own age who have few opportunities. Hussein will need all the help he can get. He needs allies. He needs foreign investment. So the closer he can be with Saudi Arabia, the better that will be for Jordan's ruling monarchy in the short run and also down the road whenever he might take power. FOR THE COUPLE With this wedding, we are going to see the emergence of a new Middle Eastern power couple. Obviously you have the crown prince on one hand. On the other hand, you have his wife who comes from a family with close ties to the royal family in Saudi Arabia, the daughter of a very wealthy businessman. Both of them are Western-educated. They went to college at prestigious universities in the United States. They speak fluent English. They clearly feel comfortable hobnobbing with other royals, with business leaders, and politicians. They can look forward to a life of great privilege. But like other royal families elsewhere, they will also be living under a microscope. Perhaps the bigger challenge is for the crown prince. In many ways, he has been groomed for this moment since he was a child. His father has taken him on world travels in recent years. He went with the king to the White House. He delivered a high profile speech to the United Nations a couple of years ago. But this is really his coming out party as a future leader of a Middle Eastern kingdom. The wedding is a first small test. People are going to look at his appearance to see how he carries himself. But the bigger test will be in the coming months, in the coming years, as he truly emerges as a public figure. Hes going to be well-known now on the global stage. Perhaps the biggest challenge will be how he is viewed at home. The nation is struggling in so many ways and people are going to be watching him very closely. Its going to be interesting to see how he carries himself in front of the people that he is set to one day rule. ___ Follow Josef Federman on Twitter at http://twitter.com/joseffederman Hiker stumbles upon body months after climber vanished in avalanche, Washington cops say A hiker stumbled upon the body of a missing climber on a Washington mountain more than three months after she was swept away in an avalanche with three other people, deputies said. A Chelan County Mountain Rescue volunteer was at the base of Colchuck Peak on Monday, May 29, when he spotted a body, the county sheriffs office said in a news release. The body belonged to Jeannie Lee, a 60-year-old woman from Bayside, New York, deputies said. She was part of a group of six that was climbing Colchuck Peak on Feb. 19 when the lead climber triggered an avalanche, McClatchy News previously reported. Four people were carried about 500 feet down the mountain and buried in snow, deputies said. A 56-year-old man from New York survived the avalanche with non-life-threatening injuries and hiked back to camp with the two other climbers. Seong Cho, a 54-year-old man living in West Hartford, Connecticut, was found dead at the base of the peak on Feb. 24. The body of Yun Park, a 66-year-old man from Palisades Park, New Jersey, has not been found yet, deputies said. Although the warm weather has caused the snow to melt, deputies said its still not safe to conduct a thorough search for the missing climber. Colchuck Peak is about 8 miles southwest of Leavenworth. What to know about avalanches Avalanches happen quickly and catch people by surprise. They can move between 60 and 80 mph and typically happen on slopes of 30-45 degrees, according to experts. Skiers, snowmobilers and hikers can set off an avalanche when a layer of snow collapses and starts to slide down the slope. In the U.S., avalanches are most common from December to April, but they can happen at any time if the conditions are right, National Geographic reported. At least 27 people in the U.S. have died in avalanches this season as of May 30, according to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. People heading into snow should always check the local avalanche forecast at Avalanche.org, officials with the U.S. Department of Agriculture said, and have an avalanche beacon, probe and shovel ready. Emergency services are usually too far away from the scene of an avalanche, and time is important, said Simon Trautman, a national avalanche specialist. A person trapped under the snow may not have more than 20 or 30 minutes. So, in a backcountry scenario, you are your own rescue party. If an avalanche breaks out, its best to move diagonal to the avalanche to an edge, Trautman said. Try to orient your feet downhill so that your lower body, not your head, takes most of the impact, officials said. You may also get into a tight ball as another way to protect your head. Skis seen in snow lead rescuers to mans body buried in avalanche, Alaska rangers say Woman swept into gorge and dies after falling from cliff in Glacier National Park Hiker slips on icy trail and hurts leg, then slips and hurts other leg, NH officials say New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday defended fellow Democrat New York City Mayor Eric Adams controversial program to bus migrants elsewhere in the state as lawsuits mount. At a press conference meant to discuss the Environmental Bond Act, a $4.2 billion initiative to address climate change in western New York, Hochul ended up taking questions on the influx of nearly 70,000 asylum seekers who have arrived in New York City. "Weve been encouraging them to give as much notice as possible to county executives. Given the scale of people affected, its not always going to be perfect," Hochul said of Adams' plans to bus migrants upstate and potentially Long Island and house them in hotels there for several months, if not longer. Around the expiration of Title 42, the city saw 5,800 people arrive in one week, and about 4,000 the week before. More than 48,000 migrants are currently housed in New York City shelters. "Its all about just preparing. And a lot of people say just the sky is falling before anything has even happened. The vast majority of these people who are simply seeking legal humanitarian relief. Theyre here legally. Theyre absolutely here legally. They have a right to seek asylum in this country based on what theyve had to endure in their home countries," Hochul said. NEW YORK CITY MAYOR ERIC ADAMS ENACTS HOMELESS BILL OF RIGHTS TO STRENGTHEN LEGAL PROTECTIONS FOR HOMELESS PEOPLE READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams hold a press conference to call on the federal government to issue work authorization to asylum seekers in Brooklyn on May 22, 2023. The governor thanked Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, a Democrat, for being receptive to accepting migrants from New York City, but said there was no plan to send them there just yet. Hochul did say the state capital of Albany, "with notice to the mayor there," received migrants from New York City and the transfer "is going well from what we hear." Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan, another Democrat, has said a second and third group of about 40 migrants were to arrive in the state capital Sunday and Monday, respectively, raising the total received so far in Albany to 105 migrants, the Albany Times Union reported. Meanwhile, the town of Colonie, located in Albany County, was granted a temporary court order to prevent more asylum seekers from being sent there from New York City. About two dozen migrants arrived at a SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western in Colonie on Saturday night, the New York Daily News reported. The town government sued New York City In Albany Supreme Court, alleging the Adams administration "made no attempt to communicate" with the town on its transfer plans. Colonie Town Supervisor Peter Crummey, elected last June as the towns first Republican supervisor in 14 years, issued a statement describing the hotel as a "hotbed of police activity," and accusing Adams of paying "no heed for the welfare of the persons subject to his forced bussing catastrophe." Asylum seekers board a bus en route to a shelter at Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City on May 18, 2023. Mayor Eric Adams addressed the daily arrival of hundreds of migrants as his administration is struggling to find shelter sites. FORMER EMPLOYEE REVEALS SHOCKING CONDITIONS IN NYC MIGRANT HOTEL: FREE FOR ALL "New York Citys shelter system is overflowing," Hochul said Tuesday, noting Fridays announcement that a repurposed prison in New York City will accommodate more than 500 people. State and city officials were also looking at a hangar at John F. Kennedy International Airport, awaiting federal approval. "Weve been very focused on serving all the state assets and that would include SUNY dorms, shuttered psychiatric centers, and anywhere we can find space to help take some of the burden off of New York City and their shelter requirements," Hochul said, adding that "[t]heres no announcement that individuals are coming to western New York at this time." When asked directly whether SUNY campuses in Erie County were being considered to house asylum seekers from New York City, Hochul said that "every state asset is on the list to be looked at." Rockland County Executive Ed Day, a Republican, said that a judge on Tuesday extended a restraining order for another two weeks to further delay the transfer of asylum seekers from New York City. A lawsuit filed by the county earlier this month alleged that Adams plan to transfer 340 single adult men from New York City to the Armoni Inn & Suites in the town of Orangeburg would effectively "quadruple" the homeless population in Rockland County. Orange County also sued New York City over its planned migrant transfers to the town of Newburgh, and a hearing is set for June 21. In support of what Adams has dubbed a "decompression strategy," Hochul said she would continue efforts to appeal to the federal government to approve migrant work authorization. "I have so many employers and farmers who are desperately in need of good workers. These people came here for work," she said. "Western New Yorks population, Buffalos population would not have grown if it wasnt for the refugees who came here from places like Burma, Somalia and Thailand. They are now part of the economy here." You are here: World Flash Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang (R) shake hands with Tesla CEO Elon Musk in Beijing, May 30, 2023. [Photo/Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs] Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday in Beijing. Noting that Chinese modernization will create unprecedented growth potential and market demand, Qin said China's new-energy vehicle industry has broad prospects. China will continue to advance opening-up at a high level and create a better market-oriented, law-based, and international business environment for Tesla and other foreign companies, said Qin. Qin said a healthy, stable, and constructive China-U.S. relationship is in the interests of both countries and the world at large, adding that such a relationship is only possible when the two sides adhere to the right direction of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation, avoid "dangerous driving," and "step on the gas" to promote mutually beneficial cooperation. The United States and China share intertwined and inseparable interests, Musk said, adding that Tesla opposes decoupling and is willing to continue to expand its business in China and share the country's development opportunities. Jasmine Paredes, right, lost both parents to cancer when she was young and smokes meth to numb herself. Her friend Karma uses fentanyl, a drug she says is not only dangerous but expensive. A gram can cost $70 and last her two days. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Next to a row of tents covered with blue tarps on Skid Row, Jasmine Paredes watched a friend scribble a message on a lamppost with a pink Sharpie: L.A. Fenty is #1 killa may God help us all. Paredes had recently lost two friends to fentanyl overdoses. She prevented a third death by performing CPR and administering Narcan, a nasal spray that can reverse the effects of opioids one of nearly a dozen times she has brought someone back from the brink, she said. She doesn't use fentanyl herself, she said. But a few days ago, she took a hit from a glass pipe she thought was filled with meth that instead turned out to be the much more powerful drug. As soon as I exhaled, everything got really slow and dreamy, said Paredes, 36, who lives in a tent in the flower district. I was unconscious for two days. I later crawled across the street to my friends tent and slept for another two days. The Sidewalk Project which runs a Skid Row drop-in center that focuses on the needs of women, especially those who use drugs or do sex work displays photos of seven volunteers and residents who have died, four from fentanyl overdoses. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Here and in other homeless encampments around Los Angeles, life-and-death battles with fentanyl take place every day: hardened addicts revived after their hearts have stopped; people like Paredes who shared a pipe, not knowing what it contained; the loss of friend after friend. Many have witnessed an overdose, suffered one themselves or helped save someone's life. Narcan is nearly as common in tents as Tylenol is in medicine cabinets. This is the reality behind numbers recently released by the L.A. County Public Health Department showing a surge in overdose deaths among homeless people, driven by the explosive rise of fentanyl. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, was implicated in 58% of deadly overdoses among unhoused people in L.A. County in 2021 nearly three times the percentage in 2019. The overall death rate among people experiencing homelessness in the county increased 55% from 2019 to 2021. On the streets, users say, fentanyl is more expensive than meth. It is so potent that even a trace amount in a pipe or several puffs of secondhand smoke can make someone pass out or become extremely ill, especially if they've never taken the drug before. While no group has been untouched by fentanyl, the overdoses have hit unhoused people especially hard. On Skid Row, its a day-to-day crisis. Its visible," said Shoshanna Scholar, director of the harm reduction division at the Los Angeles County Health Services Department. "But its really a problem across the entire county." Standing at 6th and Crocker streets, Paredes said that to safely use meth, she usually sticks to a dealer whom she trusts not to sell her anything laced with fentanyl. After her accidental brush with the drug, she uses her own pipe and cleans it after anyone borrows it. Other drug users said they take similar precautions. Paredes, who suffers from depression and anxiety, said she started using meth in high school. She was sober for years until her father died of liver cancer in 2017. Soon after, she lost her mother to uterine cancer. Her addiction caused her boyfriend to leave with their 3-year-old son, she said. Karma said she smokes fentanyl as often as every two hours to avoid a painful withdrawal. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Paredes' friend, who had just scrawled the plea to a higher power on the lamppost, uses fentanyl. The woman, who identified herself only as Karma, said she smokes the drug as often as every two hours to avoid the excruciating withdrawal pain. She said a gram of fentanyl can cost $70, compared with $10 for the same amount of meth, and can last her up to two days, depending on its potency. Nearby, several homeless people said that they, like Paredes, had experienced dire consequences from unintentional exposure to fentanyl. Tanya Williams, 52, sat in her brown tent outside a small metal warehouse. In February, she said, she used someones glass pipe to smoke crack. She didnt know it had fentanyl in it. As soon as I took a hit, I passed out, she said. People later told her they panicked after she stopped breathing and her skin turned blue. They dosed her with Narcan and called paramedics. On the way to the hospital, her heart stopped. When I woke up, there were eight or so doctors around me, she said. I started screaming, 'Jesus, please dont let me die!' Roger says he knows of about five people who have overdosed on fentanyl in the last two years on Skid Row. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Williams suspects that either the crack she smoked was laced with fentanyl or the pipe contained fentanyl remnants, since its owner used the drug. As she sat on an air mattress recounting the story, she began to cry. It was a reminder of how far she had fallen. Williams said she spent 14 years in prison in her native Kansas on manslaughter charges; she was reluctant to discuss the details. She said that when she got out, she learned that her husband had fallen in love with her sister. She came to L.A. to be near her father, who later died of dementia. That led her to start using drugs again, she said. In January, she was raped on Skid Row, she said. I want to go back to Kansas, she said. "But I have so much anger toward my sister, Im afraid Ill do something." A block away, just outside the Fred Jordan Missions, Joe Hay said that a few months before, he was in a tent with a woman, smoking what he thought was crack. He started vomiting and passed out for hours. Two days later, I went to the doctor and told them what happened, said Hay, 70. The blood test showed I had traces of fentanyl. Roger, 57, who declined to give his last name, said he was in Boyle Heights in November with his girlfriend, a meth and fentanyl user. She blew smoke toward him several times, and he passed out. Roger said he experienced an overdose and passed out when his girlfriend, a meth and fentanyl user, blew smoke toward him. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) When I woke up, I was in my boxers and had a bag of ice under my neck, he said. My girlfriend was on the phone with the paramedics and told me I had overdosed. After that, he took a class on how to handle fentanyl overdoses. In February, after he and his girlfriend had finished buying crack, they saw a woman collapse on the sidewalk. Roger rubbed his knuckles against her sternum, as he had learned in the class. The woman swung her arm against his. We knew she was OK after that, he said, adding that Narcan and CPR would have been the next step had she not reacted. In East Hollywood, outside the LA Community Health Project where unhoused people can receive clean needles, fentanyl test strips and Narcan, as well as referrals to health and housing services Alex Taylor, 35, sat slumped on the sidewalk, occasionally nodding off. The L.A. native said he became addicted to crystal meth at age 15. Almost a year ago, he shot up fentanyl and overdosed. Its not my everyday drug, so its easy to get a bad bunch, said Taylor. I thought Id kicked the bucket." Narcan nasal spray, which can reverse the effects of opioids, is nearly as common in tents as Tylenol is in medicine cabinets. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Someone gave him Narcan, but he had to be taken to the hospital by ambulance. Its kind of easy to OD, but I didnt care. Screw it," he said. Also outside the LA Community Health Project, Kevin Franklin, 19, said the nonprofit has helped him quit fentanyl, but he still uses meth. Franklin, from Baltimore, said he got addicted to meth at age 12. His mother died of a heroin overdose, and his father shot himself in the head. He arrived in L.A. on heroin, but it was hard to find any; fentanyl was cheaper and more available, he said. He overdosed multiple times. The fentanyl high its much more intense, but your high falls off much faster," he said. And youre like, 'Oh, dammit, I need to go get more and more and more.' Even while you are high, youre thinking about how to get more fentanyl. The brushes with death from overdosing didn't give him much pause. An addict doesnt think that way. A $10 high, $20 high thats what they think," he said. Public health officials say they have been educating people about the dangers of fentanyl, distributing more Narcan and doubling down on drug treatment. Community outreach groups have played a key role in getting Narcan to unhoused people. Theyve also helped provide clean syringes and places where users can test drugs to know what they are ingesting. Soma Snakeoil is executive director of the Sidewalk Project , which operates a Skid Row drop-in center that focuses on the needs of women, especially those who use drugs or do sex work. People are saying theyre losing their friends, Soma said. Theres a lot of grief. On a wall inside the Sidewalk Project center are photos of seven volunteers and local people who died as recently as two months ago half of them of fentanyl overdoses. We cant do it every time, because theres too many deaths, but if were close to people, we try to do something near their tent put some flowers, candles or say some words, Soma said. She said that to save lives, there needs to be more drug testing, as well as more overdose prevention centers. One positive trend is that unhoused people are increasingly smoking fentanyl rather than injecting it, according to county and community organizations. This reduces the risk of overdosing, because smokers usually ingest small amounts throughout the day, while intravenous users tend to take a whole hit. At North Hollywood Recreation Center, a park ranger, who was not authorized to speak on the record, said overdose deaths have increased in recent years. Officials believe some of the deaths were fentanyl-related. On a recent afternoon, there were only a few unhoused people in the park. Nearby, on the sidewalk, Gregory Brown was in the blue tent where he has lived for the last year. Gregory Brown, who has been unhoused for a year in North Hollywood, said he used CPR to revived a woman who had overdosed on fentanyl. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) He said he found himself on the street after he caught his girlfriend of nine years cheating on him. Three months ago, he was lying in his tent when he heard a man screaming, "She's dying! She's dying!" Brown recalled rushing out of his tent, shirtless. A woman's eyes were rolled back, and her lips were blue. He shouted for someone to call the paramedics. I kneeled down and said, 'God, please, please, save another one.' He pumped her chest with his hands, then blew air into her mouth, he said. His tears fell on her face as he continued to perform CPR. Eventually, the woman came back to life. She looked tired, he said, as if she had been awoken from a deep sleep. Inside his tent afterward, he was still crying. He thought of his mother, who died nearly two decades ago, and how proud of him she would have been. Reflecting on his role in saving the woman, he said: Im proud to say I did that, and Id do it again." Times staff writer Gale Holland contributed to this report. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. House of Bread holding free dinner for children in need of hot meal Several programs throughout the Miami Valley do what they can to make sure kids wont go hungry over the summer. News Center 7s Taylor Robertson spoke to a local school district that said its not uncommon for some kids to get their only meals at school. The House of Bread in Dayton is holding a free dinner for kids looking for a hot meal, which is a big concern now with school out. Some kids rely on lunch and breakfast when school is in session and when theyre out of school, they dont have those resources, said Jenny Alexander, who has worked at Mad River Local Schools for twenty years. Alexander said often times they see the kids come to school hungry. >> Big Brothers Big Sisters seeking mentors in the Miami Valley; How you can help You know when school stops, theyre still going to be hungry and unfortunately they dont have the opportunity to get food, she said. Once a week on Fridays, we have bags of food that are set up at three different locations throughout the school district where parents can drive through and pick up bags of food for their child to eat throughout the week. She said since prices of food have increased, there is a greater need for this program. The demographics of our school district, sometimes its hard for people to get food, Alexander said. There are other schools throughout the Miami Valley that offer programs to make sure their students are fed throughout the summer. >> AAA warning parents, teen drivers to prepare for 100 deadliest days Trotwood City Schools has a summer food service program that delivers meals to their students homes. Kettering City Schools food and nutrition services hand out grab-and-go meals at one of their elementary schools on Mondays and Thursdays, and their backpack program hands out meals for the weekend. News Center 7 talked to the executive director of House of Bread, a nonprofit organization that serves hot food daily to those who are food insecure. Melodie Bennett said a good chunk of the people they serve are kids. We typically receive on average 200 plus people per day, about 25 percent of those are children that bring their families or their guardians with them, Bennett said. House of Bread will be holding free dinner for kids tonight until 6 p.m. Bennett said House of Bread doesnt just want to make sure the kids are fed, they like to be a source of stability in their lives where the families can trust them. House Republican leaders are dismissing the Congressional Budget Offices (CBO) latest projection that says the debt limit deal struck by President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., would actually increase the number of people eligible for federal benefits. Tightening access to SNAP and other benefit programs has been touted as a key victory touted by Republican negotiators, part of their overall demand to slash spending in exchange for raising the federal borrowing limit. The bill would raise the upper age limit of single American adults who must fulfill work requirements to get SNAP from 49 to 54, while providing exemptions for the homeless, veterans and young people aging out of the foster care system. MCCARTHY-BIDEN DEBT CEILING DEAL PASSES BIG PROCEDURAL HURDLE IN HOUSE Late on Tuesday, the CBO released an updated score of the bill, The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, which said that the proposed changes would actually expand the net eligibility to SNAP by roughly 78,000 people or about 0.2%. "The simple answer is the CBO got it wrong," House Financial Services Chair Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., said at a late night press conference. "These populations are already included. And most states, under the 12% cap that they currently have, which says even if they have all these currently excluded populations, that are not required to be in work or seeking work, they can have up to 12% of their population exempted. We reduced that number down to eight." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn Thompson, R-Pa., similarly criticized the projection as "wrong" and claimed the CBO did not add up its figures correctly. GOP TOUTS MCCARTHY-BIDEN DEAL AS CONSERVATIVE VICTORY AS SOME REPUBLICANS DEFECT "They double-counted individuals that there were new categories that were created, specifically veterans, the homeless, 18-year-olds that have been living in foster care," Thompson said. "I hope you're all aware the tragic situation that happens there, many times, when a young person ages out, they put their life belongings in a garbage bag and because it all fits there and they go out to try to find a place in the world. And very frankly, those folks, most of those folks are already counted as eligible." "So CBO basically, they scored this as a $2 billion costs, which is completely false," he added. DEBT CEILING AGREEMENT IN PRINCIPLE REACHED BETWEEN DEMOCRATS, REPUBLICANS But the update left some GOP members, particularly those who were already opposed to the bill, even more disenchanted. Fox News Digital asked Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., for her reaction to the CBO update as the congresswoman was leaving a closed-door conference meeting. She replied sarcastically, "Yay debt." Rep. Lauren Boebert told Fox News Digital in response to the new CBO estimate, "Yay, debt." When asked a follow-up question about how House GOP leadership fielded dissenters concerns, Boebert described it as, "Sit down little girl, we got this." Rep. Dan Bishop, R-N.C., among the first House Republicans to voice dissent, wrote on Twitter, "The Biden-McCarthy deal expands welfare. Heckuva negotiation, guys." "Yet another example of this bill doing one thing while its proponents incorrectly claim that it does precisely the opposite," Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, who signaled that hes against the bill in its current form, also said. Dr. Vivek Murthy at a pediatric COVID-19 vaccination clinic in McLean, Va., in 2021. (Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters) During the coronavirus pandemic, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy did not exactly emerge as one of the nations more prominent public health officials, despite the high status of his position. Serious and soft-spoken, Murthy was frequently eclipsed on cable news and social media by the likes of Dr. Anthony Fauci, the presidents top pandemic adviser, and Dr. Ashish Jha, the White House pandemic response team coordinator. But as the pandemic has subsided, Murthy has become increasingly vocal about the concerns that he first expressed in his 2020 book, Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World. Published just weeks after the nation went into lockdown, Together seems geared toward a post-pandemic world, one in which the virus itself has receded for many people as a health concern, while the psychological challenges wrought by the pandemic have grown only more pronounced. In recent weeks, Murthy has issued two notable advisories that seek to address a culture of cultural isolation fostered by an increasing reliance on the internet. While the work he outlines is far beyond the scope of a single office, Murthys focus represents what is likely to be a top concern for medical professionals and policymakers in the years to come. How the American Dream convinces people loneliness is normal (Associated Press) >>> The lonely American "Ted Lasso" star Jason Sudeikis, with press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and his fellow cast members, at a press briefing on March 20 to discuss the importance of addressing mental health to promote overall well-being. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters) Loneliness is far more than just a bad feeling it harms both individual and societal health, Murthy writes in a new advisory issued earlier this month, titled Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation. The 82-page document is a frank acknowledgement that American adults have fewer and fewer meaningful relationships outside immediate family and work and that the lack of those relationships has serious health harms, roughly akin to those of being a habitual smoker. The lack of social connection, Murthy writes, is making Americans angry, sick, and alone. And if social networks were already being disrupted by economic, social and other forces before the pandemic took hold in 2020, lockdowns, school closures and the rise of remote work have only exacerbated the crisis. Murthy calls for policymakers, business leaders and health care professionals to foster a culture of connection that treats chronic, unwanted solitude as a disease. Whether they will take heed remains an open question. A loneliness 'epidemic' is affecting a staggering number of American adults (USA Today) >>> Beyond the screen Ninth grader Alani Rodriguez Martinez attends a virtual class in Louisville, Ky., in January 2022. (Amira Karaoud/Reuters) Social habits dont arise spontaneously but, rather, are shaped by the values a society imparts to young adults. In a second May advisory, titled Social Media and Youth Mental Health, Murthy says that an increasing reliance on social media is leading young adults to experience low self-esteem, as well as symptoms related to anxiety and depressive disorders. Social media platforms also routinely expose adolescents to inappropriate and dangerous content. Murthy describes a study of 10,000 14-year-olds that found that greater social media use predicted poor sleep, online harassment, poor body image, low self-esteem, and higher depressive symptom scores with a larger association for girls than boys. While the 45-year-old surgeon general and father of two acknowledges that social media platforms can foster the ability to form and maintain friendships online, he strongly suggests that we have not done enough to consider the harms of a heavily digital existence, a trend that was accelerated by the pandemic, when millions of children attended school and even summer camp online. Our children and adolescents dont have the luxury of waiting years until we know the full extent of social medias impact, he writes. But the popularity of platforms like TikTok suggests that a neat policy solution is out of reach. Social media has done extraordinary damage to democracy, public health, safety: Expert (Yahoo Finance) >>> An uncertain future Danny Reagan, a former residential patient of the Lindner Center of Hope in Mason, Ohio, in January 2019. (Maddie McGarvey/Reuters) The number of stressors on the lives of Americans can seem overwhelming. From the cost of child care to the crisis of global warming, the kind of inner peace that is essential to mental well-being can be difficult to find, especially for people who lack the means to take a vacation or even a few days off work. The rise of artificial intelligence programs like ChatGPT could act as an accelerant, potentially deepening social divisions while also displacing large segments of the workforce. One answer: helping others. Recent studies have found that volunteerism can improve mental health, while also repairing some small piece of a fractured, broken world. Service is a powerful antidote to loneliness, Murthy recently said. Volunteering in your community could help with depression (NBC News) >>> Hungary asks EU to extend import curbs on grains from Ukraine at least until end-2023 BUDAPEST (Reuters) - Hungary has asked the EU to extend import curbs on Ukraine grains and oilseed crops for five Eastern European states at least until the end of 2023, Ministry of Agriculture State Secretary Zsolt Feldman said. Feldman told state news agency MTI late on Tuesday that Hungary also asked Brussels to grant financial support to local farmers to facilitate the transport of grain stocks stuck in domestic storage before this year's harvest. "Our interest is that Hungary's harvest could be completed safely and Hungarian farmers could be able to sell their product," Feldman said after a meeting of EU farm ministers in Brussels. The EU on May 2 set restrictions until June 5 on imports of Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seed to ease the excess supply of the grains in Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. Those countries had complained cheaper Ukrainian grain was making domestic production unprofitable. The EU executive arm said that during that period, Ukrainian wheat, maize, rapeseed and sunflower seed can be sold to any other country in the 27-nation bloc. The EU had earlier liberalised all imports from Ukraine to help Kyiv's efforts to fend off Russia's invasion. The five countries became transit routes for Ukrainian grain that could not be exported through its Black Sea ports because the war. The Commission said it could extend the grain import restrictions beyond 5 June if exceptional conditions continue. (Reporting by Krisztina Than; Editing by Tom Hogue and Andrew Heavens) Husband asks witness to call 911 before wife shoots him to death at wharf, PA cops say Before a man was shot to death at a Pennsylvania wharf, he asked a witness to call 911, authorities said. Then his wife shot him two times, according to a May 30 news release from the Bucks County District Attorneys Office. Faisal Iqbal, 38, collapsed as several people looked on. Witnesses then saw the mans wife walk over to him and shoot him twice in the torso and once in his head, according to the release. Bristol Borough Police were called to the Bristol Wharf at 10:53 a.m. Tuesday, May 30. Multiple people were at the park, police said. Arriving officers found a 40-year-old woman with bloody clothing, according to the release. She was identified as Sammar Khan, of Levittown, and the wife of the shooting victim. Iqbal was found dead in a grassy area, police said. A gun was nearby. Witnesses reported that Khan and Iqbal were talking along the coastline, officials said, and Khan was speaking loudly in another language. Shortly after, a pop sound was heard, the district attorneys office said. Iqbal, who had been seated, stood up and began wrestling with Khan and additional gunshots were heard, witnesses observed. As the two began walking from the coastline toward the parking lot, Iqbal asked at least one person to call for help, according to the release. Witnesses saw his wife shoot him near a grassy area between the parking lot and the water, authorities said. Khan was charged with criminal homicide, possession of an instrument of crime and recklessly endangering another person. Shes being held without bail. Bristol Wharf is about 20 miles northeast of downtown Philadelphia. If you are experiencing domestic violence and need someone to talk to, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline for support at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. Wife calls 911 saying intruder killed her husband, Texas cops say. Now shes arrested Husband said he shot wife because she would not shut up, cops say. Hes prison bound Woman shoots ex-husband, then hes found dead outside Texas home, sheriff says Husband killed in road-rage shooting on way home from work, Ohio cops say. Arrest made Two weeks after a 40-year-old man was shot and killed on his way home from work, an arrest has been made, officials say. Dacarrei Tovon Kinard, 30, was arrested Wednesday, May 31, the U.S. Marshals Service said. He is accused of killing George Geo Jensen during a road rage shooting May 17 on Interstate 76 in Norton, Ohio. Jensen was coming home from work when he was shot multiple times on the interstate, according to details of a GoFundMe. He died at an Akron hospital, Norton police said. Eight .40-caliber shell casings were found, including four in Jensens car and two from his body, the Akron Beacon Journal reported. Allison Jensen, George Jensens wife, told the Akron Beacon Journal the family didnt learn of the shooting until hours later. Police said the suspect exited Interstate 76 after the road-rage incident. Kinard was captured Wednesday afternoon in Columbus, according to the U.S. Marshals. The Norton Police Department worked nonstop to gather information, follow up on tips from the public and ultimately make an identification for the suspect, Northern Ohio U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott said. Jensen worked in the IT field and was also passionate about live music and automobiles, according to his obituary. The obituary said Jensen was deeply concerned about the increasing prevalence of gun violence in schools and society. In honor of Geo, let us strive for a world where senseless violence is replaced with compassion, understanding and a commitment to building a brighter future, the obituary says. Allison Jensen described her husband as an extremely sweet, really compassionate person, WJW reported. He saw the good and utility of being useful, he loved to volunteer, and he always tried to pick people up wherever he could, always helping, according to the GoFundMe. Victim in road rage shooting also had gun and chased down suspect, Tennessee cops say 72-year-old shot and killed outside Hardees as he waved at cars, Georgia cops say 20-year-old airman changing tire is killed in hit-and-run, Virginia reports say Belfast Met led GenComm is using the E3 campus in west Belfast as its headquarters A Europe-wide project exploring the possibilities of using hydrogen for energy is coming to an end in west Belfast. The GenComm programme looked at the possibilities of using green hydrogen to decarbonise and turn northwest Europe into an economic world player. The Belfast Met-led GenComm has been using the E3 campus in west Belfast as its headquarters. Interreg North West Europe funded the project from 2017. It was instrumental in establishing three European GenComm Hydrogen Hub pilot plants, creating hydrogen by solar, wind and biomass methods. It produced the first hydrogen supply chain on the island of Ireland, powering hydrogen buses in Belfast. GenComm co-ordinator Paul McCormack said Northern Ireland was in a prime position to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by green hydrogen. GenComm co-ordinator Paul McCormack said Northern Ireland was in a prime position to take advantage of the opportunities offered by green hydrogen 'Sustainable clean energy' "The work of Belfast Met and our partners has ensured that Northern Ireland is ahead of the energy curve, working with the Department of the Economy, the Department for Infrastructure, making sure that Northern Ireland is well-positioned to take full benefit of the new green economy - economic benefit but also the environmental benefit of reducing its CO2 footprint, giving that green boost the economy requires." The chief executive of Belfast Met, Louise Warde Hunter. said: "The pioneering GenComm project has proved to be a key catalyst driving the clean hydrogen energy transition. "Hydrogen is one of the clean energy solutions that will decarbonize Europe's industry, transport, buildings, and energy sectors, demonstrated by the ambitious targets for production of hydrogen set by the European Green Deal and REPowerEU. "Skills will be key in translating the policy ambitions into reality. Belfast Met is delivering the skills mechanisms, modules and mobility that will provide the foundations for a sustainable clean energy economy." Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi presented an updated agreement to protect the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant at a May 30 meeting of the UN Security Council. The agreement outlines five principles to help prevent a nuclear accident at the plant occupied by Russian troops over a year ago. Grossi said he had identified these principles in consultations with Ukraine and Russia and asked both sides to adhere to them. According to those principles, no attacks should be conducted from or against the plant, in particular targeting the reactors' spent nuclear fuel storage, other critical infrastructure, or personnel. Another rule is that the plant should not be used as storage for heavy weapons, like tanks, rocket launchers, artillery systems, and ammunition, or as a base for military personnel. Life on the front line of Russias new nuclear brinkmanship On nights when he hears them, Mykhailo Kling runs to his panoramic ninth-floor balcony in Nikopol to watch Russian rockets being fired at his hometown. See the reactor buildings there, he said, pointing across the wide expanse of the Dnipro River at the eerie shapes of the Zaporizhzhia The Kyiv IndependentFrancis Farrell The plant's off-site power should remain available and secure at all times, the agreement says, while all structures, systems, and components necessary for the safe and reliable operation of the plant must be protected from attacks or acts of sabotage. IAEA experts stationed at the Zaporizhzhia are expected to monitor compliance with those principles and report any violations to Grossi. The new plan is less ambitious than Grossi's initial efforts to create a full-fledged "protection zone" around the plant, the idea which "has long been abandoned," according to a diplomat, cited by Reuters. Europe's largest nuclear power plant, located in occupied Enerhodar, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, has been held by Russian troops since March 4. It was fully disconnected from the Ukrainian power grid several times due to regular Russian attacks on the country's energy infrastructure. Since Russian forces occupied the plant, they have used it as a military base from which to launch attacks at Ukrainian-controlled territory across the Dnipro River, in particular, Nikopol. A 62-year-old Illinois man died after being shot at an Interstate 5 rest area near Rochester on Tuesday. The shooting occurred before 4:30 p.m. in the parking lot of the Maytown Rest Area on the southbound side of the highway, according to a Washington State Patrol news release. In a press memo, WSP alleges a 31-year-old Olympia man shot and killed the 62-year-old man from Schaumburg, Illinois after a verbal altercation between the two pedestrians. Troopers arrested the Olympia man on suspicion of second-degree murder and booked him into the Thurston County jail without incident, according to the news release. The incident is under investigation and its unclear if drugs or alcohol may have been involved, according to the memo. Troopers reportedly closed the rest area for about five and half hours following the shooting. WSP says the Illinois mans identity will be released after his next of kin have been notified. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information can contact WSP Detective Brooke Bova at 360-701-8284. You are here: World Flash Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Tuesday urged the U.S. side to immediately correct wrong practices and show sincerity for dialogue and communication between the two militaries. The United States is clear about the reason why China-U.S. military dialogue faces difficulties, Mao said at a regular press briefing when answering a query. Mao also urged the U.S. side to earnestly respect China's sovereignty, security and interest concerns, immediately correct wrong practices, show sincerity, and create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for dialogue and communication between Chinese and U.S. militaries. Brazils lower house of Congress on Tuesday night approved a bill that would limit the recognition of ancestral lands in a vote met by protests from Indigenous groups. The bill, known as PL 490/2007, would strip the environment and Indigenous people ministries of some powers, weakening their oversight of environmental protections and the demarcation of Indigenous lands. The proposed legislation, which passed by 283 votes to 155, still requires approval from the Senate and President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Ahead of the vote, Indigenous groups blocked a highway just outside the countrys largest city Sao Paulo. Protesters burned tires, fired arrows and threw objects at the riot and military police, who used water cannons and tear gas in return. Indigenous groups from across the country also planned protests in the capital Brasilia, where Lula da Silva is meeting with South American leaders. The president could still veto the bill, Reuters reports, but Congress could have enough support to override the move. PL490 has been approved by the Chamber: a serious attack on indigenous peoples and the environment, Sonia Guajajara, the Indigenous Peoples minister, tweeted late on Tuesday. We keep fighting for life. Still in the Senate, we will dialogue to avoid negotiating our lives in exchange for profit and destruction. We will not give up!. Indigenous people block the Bandeirantes highway in Sao Paulo on May 30, 2023. - Amanda Perobelli/Reuters Whats in the bill Lula da Silva has promised to repair the damage to the Amazon caused during the tenure of his predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro. A surge in invasions and illegal extraction of natural resources in protected Indigenous lands were reported under the far-right former leaders time in office. Last month, Lula da Silva recognized six Indigenous territories, Reuters reports, fulfilling part of his campaign promise to protect Indigenous lands from being taken for farming, gold mining and logging in the Amazon. But Lula da Silva has had to face a hostile Congress, which approved expediting the bills review process last week. While the bill does not impact fully recognized Indigenous territories, it would affect territories that are under claim. Rights groups warn that the bill would prevent Indigenous communities from obtaining title of their lands if they were not physically present on them on October 5, 1988, the day Brazils current Constitution was adopted, writes Human Rights Watch. Indigenous peoples who were expelled from their territory before October 1988 and cannot prove they were involved in an ongoing dispute over their claim on that date would not be able to secure legal recognition of their lands, Human Rights Watch wrote in a statement. Choosing an arbitrary cutoff date and refusing to recognize ancestral lands claimed after that date is not in line with international standards, it added. If the bill passes, it could tarnish Lula da Silvas climate ambitions. If Lula loses this battle in Congress, it will represent yet another political defeat for his administration and display the conservative force he faces, Bruna Santos, director of the Wilson Centers Brazil Institute, told CNN. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A fisherman was casting his line into shallow water off the Texas coast when a huge hammerhead shark emerged from below, TikTok video shows. Jason Schilling shared the video May 24, capturing the unexpected and unnerving sight at San Luis Pass, on the west end of Galveston. At first, Schillings phone is pointed into the distance, looking for a glimpse of fins peeking out of the gray-brown water. But then the shark appears much closer, to his left, almost half of its body breaching the surface leaving no doubt about its massive size. This thing came right up to the land, Schilling can be heard saying in the video. I didnt know they go that shallow, he says. Thats insane, Ive never seen that before. The water the shark was swimming in was only knee-deep, Schilling told TV station KRIV, adding that the shark was between 10 and 11 feet long. There are 10 species of hammerhead shark, with the largest being the Great Hammerhead, which grows up to 20 feet, experts say. Shark attacks are rare, and hammerhead attacks even more so, according to the Florida Museum of Natural Historys International Shark Attack File. In the world, there have only been 18 documented hammerhead attacks against people, and none have been fatal, museum data shows. Magnificent beast caught on Texas lake sets a new record, officials say Rare creature the only one of its kind spotted wrestling in China, photos show Watch one of the rarest sharks in Europe interrupt kids kayaking class in Ireland What a monster. Angler catches potentially record-breaking catfish, PA photos show Investors accused the owner of a mall in Illinois of using their cash to buy two jets and fund a lavish birthday party for his dog The lawsuit alleges that Jonathan Larmore splashed out on a Gulfstream G400. aviation-images.com/Universal Images Group via Getty Images An Illinois mall owner is being sued by his investors over mismanagement of funds. The investors say the mall owner used their cash to fund his life of luxury. It also alleges that investors haven't received dividend payments since 2019. Investors are suing the owner of a mall in Illinois, accusing him of using their cash to splash out on jets, luxury properties, and a lavish birthday party for his dog. The lawsuit, which was first reported by Bloomberg, alleges that Jonathan Larmore, and other staff at Arciterra a property company that owned Belleville Crossing mall in Belleville, Illinois had breached their duties when they transferred some of the investors' money to themselves "to fund their unbelievably lavish lifestyle." None of the company's more than 2,000 investors have received dividend payments since August 2019, and some haven't received payments since 2011, it said. Meanwhile, Larmore, his wife, and his mother collectively own approximately 12 houses throughout the US, including two recently remodeled "at tremendous expense" and four on an exclusive lake in Indiana. They also own a Cessna Citation jet, a Gulfstream G400, and have bought multiple cars and boats including a $250,000 wake surf boat and a $2.5 million motor yacht, the plaintiffs said. "They frequently throw lavish parties costing six figures. In the summer of 2022, they threw such a six-figure party, flying in friends and family on their private aircraft. One such party was to celebrate the birthday of their Boston Terrier, Spike," they added. Insider contacted Arciterra and Jonathan Larmore via LinkedIn for comment but did not immediately hear back. Arciterra says that it owns more than 80 properties in 24 states and has raised approximately $187 million in capital from outside investors. Bloomberg reported that Arciterra has recently been sued by construction companies, a commercial cleaner, and the city of Milwaukee. Belleville Crossing mall was one of its properties. The plaintiffs say that because the owners diverted company assets, they failed to pay necessary vendors and allowed the Belleville Crossing mall to fall into "a state of disrepair." "Tenants complain of three-foot-tall weeds in planting beds, over-flowing and accumulating trash throughout the property, roof leaks not being addressed allowing ongoing water penetration damage as well as the complete absence of snow and ice removal," they said. The mall was ultimately sold to an investor in a tax lien sale in November 2022 "due to Defendants' failure to timely pay property taxes," they added. Read the original article on Business Insider By Brendan Pierson (Reuters) -Johnson & Johnson on Wednesday faced the first trial in almost two years over claims that asbestos in its baby powder and other talc products causes cancer, as it seeks to settle thousands of similar cases in bankruptcy court. Emory Hernandez, 24, says he developed mesothelioma, a deadly cancer, in the tissue around his heart as a result of exposure to J&J's talc products beginning when he was a baby. The company has denied that its talc contains asbestos, which is linked to mesothelioma, or causes cancer. Joseph Satterley, a lawyer for Hernandez, urged jurors in Alameda County, California court to reject the company's defenses and hold it responsible for his client's illness. "I can assure you the evidence will be very strong," Satterley said. "Mesothelioma is a signature disease of asbestos." Allison Brown, a lawyer for J&J, said in her opening statement that the company went to great lengths to ensure that there were no contaminants in its talc. She said that Hernandez's form of mesothelioma was very rare, and more likely related to a family history of heart disease and cancer. "We have never wavered in our belief that talc is safe and does not cause cancer," she said. J&J subsidiary LTL Management in April filed for bankruptcy in Trenton, New Jersey proposing to pay $8.9 billion to settle more than 38,000 lawsuits, and prevent new cases from coming forward in the future. It is the company's second attempt to resolve talc claims in bankruptcy, after a federal appeals court rejected an earlier bid. Litigation has largely been halted during bankruptcy proceedings, but U.S. Chief Bankruptcy Judge Michael Kaplan, who is overseeing LTL's Chapter 11, allowed Hernandez's trial to go ahead because he is only expected to live a short time. Even if Hernandez wins, he will not be able to collect on the judgment while the bankruptcy is ongoing. Still, the outcome of the trial could influence whether other plaintiffs decide to join in the proposed settlement. Asbestos plaintiffs are seeking to have the latest bankruptcy filing dismissed, and have argued it was brought in bad faith to insulate the company from litigation. J&J and LTL have argued bankruptcy delivers settlement payouts more fairly, efficiently and equitably than a lottery offered by trial courts, where some litigants get large awards and others nothing. The company said in bankruptcy court filings that the costs of its talc-related verdicts, settlements and legal fees have soared to about $4.5 billion. (Reporting By Brendan Pierson in New York, Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi and Bill Berkrot) Jam Master Jay was killed in his studio by a masked man in 2002 A third man has been charged over the murder of Run-DMC star Jam Master Jay, prosecutors in New York have confirmed. Jay Bryant, 49, from Queens, who was in custody already on unrelated federal drug charges, denies the fresh charges. Jam Master Jay was shot in the head in his studio by a masked man in 2002. In 2020, two other men, Ronald Washington and Karl Jordan Jr, were charged with his murder. They previously pleaded not guilty and are due to face trial in January 2024. The death of the trailblazing hip-hop DJ, whose real name was Jason Mizell, had remained an unsolved case for almost two decades. The influential act he formed with Joseph "Run" Simmons and Darryl "DMC" McDaniel - famous for 1980s tracks such as It's Tricky, It's Like That and Aerosmith collaboration Walk This Way - disbanded after his death. Run-DMC were best known for hits including It's Tricky and It's Like That A court previously heard that the musician had been killed "in cold blood" after a big-money cocaine deal he had been involved in turned sour. Mr Bryant's attorney, Cesar de Castro, said on Tuesday his client would plead not guilty to the charges. "Securing an indictment in a secret grand jury, applying an extremely low burden of proof, is one thing," he said. "Proving it at trial is another matter." The charges against him include murder while engaged in narcotics trafficking and other drug-trafficking counts. In a letter filed to the court, prosecutors said Mr Bryant, along with the two other men, had been seen entering and later fleeing the building after the shooting, and that his DNA had been recovered at the scene. Squirtle Aqua Jet! One of Saturn's weirdest and most fascinating moons has been caught by the James Webb Space Telescope spewing a gigantic plume of water vapor thousands of miles out from its icy surface and reader, we're living for it. As NASA notes in a new blog, Saturn's small, watery moon Enceladus is no stranger to these kinds of outbursts. But until the JWST pointed its uber-sensitive scientific instruments at it, a plume of this magnitude had never been captured. Enceladus is notably tiny, at just 313 miles across soaking wet which it increasingly seems to be making it just four percent the size of our Earth. One can imagine the surprise at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland, then, when they detected a plume shooting off it that spanned more than 6,000 miles, dwarfing the tiny moon and making up the distance it takes, as NASA notes, from Los Angeles to Buenos Aires. "When I was looking at the data, at first, I was thinking I had to be wrong," Goddard's Geronimo Villanueva, the lead author of a recent paper published in the journal Nature Astronomy on the never-before-documented phenomenon, said. "It was just so shocking to detect a water plume more than 20 times the size of the moon." Life-Like The rate of the plume was also of particular interest to the researchers, as Webb was able to detect that it was gushing out at a whopping 79 gallons per second. That's thin coverage spread over 6,000 miles, of course, but NASA notes that it's enough to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in a few hours. Enceladus itself is a pretty big deal because, as NASA discovered back in 2021, its unique hydrothermal vents could "very likely" host microorganisms like those we have on Earth, making it one of the most prominent potential sites for extraterrestrial life in our Solar System. The agency's Cassini mission, which was the first to ever orbit Saturn, compiled troves of data on the iconically ringed planet and found that the plumes Enceladus shoots off contain the right compounds for the building blocks of life. It's no surprise why NASA is so invested in taking a closer look at this moon and there's no doubt that this giant water spout was a pleasant surprise. More on Saturn: Saturn Is Sucking Up Its Rings The 500km-wide Saturnian moon is covered in ice Astronomers have detected a huge plume of water vapour spurting out into space from Enceladus, an icy moon of Saturn. The 504km-wide (313 miles) moon is well known for its geysers, but this is a particularly big one. The water stream spans some 9,600km - a distance equivalent to that of flying from the UK to Japan. Scientists are fascinated by Enceladus because its sub-surface salty ocean - the source of the water - could hold the basic conditions to support life. Nasa's Cassini mission (2004-2017) gathered tantalising evidence of the necessary chemistry by regularly flying through the geysers and sampling the water with its instruments - although it made no direct detection of biology. The new super-plume was spied by the James Webb Space Telescope. Previous observations had tracked vapour emissions extending for hundreds of kilometres, but this geyser is on a different scale. Enceladus The European Space Agency (Esa) calculated the rate at which the water was gushing out at about 300 litres per second. This would be sufficient to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in just a few hours, Esa said. Webb was able to map the plume's properties using its extremely sensitive Near-Infrared Spectrograph (NIRSpec) instrument. The instrument showed how much of the ejected vapour (about 30%) feeds a fuzzy torus of water co-located with one of Saturn's famous rings - its so-called E-ring. "The temperature on the surface of Enceladus is minus 200 degrees Celsius. It's freezing cold," commented Prof Catherine Heymans, Astronomer Royal for Scotland. "But at the core of the moon, we think it's hot enough to heat up this water. And that's what's causing these plumes to come out. "We know deep in our own ocean on planet Earth, in these sort of conditions, life can survive. So that's why we're excited to see these big plumes at Enceladus. They will help us understand a bit more about what's going on, and how likely it is that life could exist, but it's not going to be life like you and me - it would be deep-sea bacteria," she told the BBC. Cassini imaged - and flew through - the jets of Enceladus Scientists have proposed a Nasa mission called the Enceladus Orbilander that would try to resolve the open question about life. As the name suggests, this mission would both orbit the moon to sample the geysers like Cassini did - but with more advanced technology - and then land to sample materials on the surface. If ever approved, the Orbilander would not fly for several decades because of other priorities. In the meantime, Nasa and Esa have probes heading to the ice-covered moons of Jupiter. These bodies also contain oceans of water at depth and could actually be better candidates in the search for extra-terrestrial life because they're much larger in size. It's not known, for example, how long little Enceladus has held water in the all important liquid state to support biology; the moon may have been frozen solid for a substantial portion of the history of the Solar System, denting its life credentials. In contrast, Jupiter's bulkier moons, such as Europa (3,121km in diameter) and Ganymede (5,268km) have probably had the heat energy to maintain water in the liquid state over a much greater period of time. A detailed write-up of the Webb observations of Enceladus will appear shortly in the journal Nature Astronomy. A pre-print is available here. Jan. 6 rioter who wanted Pelosi brought out to mob is sentenced to 2 years A Pennsylvania woman who went into the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6 riot and demanded that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi be brought out to the mob was sentenced to more than two years in prison Tuesday, officials said. Pauline Bauer, 55, was recorded shouting bring her out here and were coming in if you dont bring her out here near the House speakers office during the 2021 attack, according to court documents. Bauer was sentenced to 27 months in prison, or two years and three months, the U.S. attorneys office for Washington, D.C., said in a statement. FILE - This image from Metropolitan Police Department body worn camera video and contained in the Statement of Facts supporting an arrest warrant for Pauline Bauer, pointing second to left, taken in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington. (Justice Department via AP file) She was convicted at a bench trial meaning before a judge rather than a jury in January on charges of obstruction of an official proceeding, entering and remaining in a restricted building, disorderly or disruptive conduct in a restricted building and other counts. An attorney listed as representing her did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Prosecutors said Bauer was part of a mob of supporters of then-President Donald Trump who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, as Congress was formally counting the electoral votes affirming Trumps loss. Trump and his supporters had spread lies about the 2020 election, and Trump falsely said that then-Vice President Mike Pence could halt the proceedings. Pence refused, saying he had no authority to do so. Bauer had also pushed a Washington police officer during a confrontation and was physically removed from the area by officers in riot gear, the U.S. attorney's office said. Bauers attorney argued for a period of supervision without additional imprisonment, writing in a sentencing memorandum that she regrets and takes responsibility for her actions and poses no threat to society. Prosecutors sought 78 months in prison, or 6 years, according to the governments sentencing memo. They argued that Bauer threatened to kill Pelosi of California, the Democratic House speaker at the time, yelling Theyre criminals. They need to hang, and threatening to hang Pelosi by name. In addition to the prison time, Bauer was sentenced to 24 months' supervised release and a $2,000 fine, the U.S. attorney's office said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Jane Fonda tossed award scroll at Cannes winner whod left it behind Jane Fonda impressed fans with her throwing arm during the closing ceremony May 27 at the Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, when she tossed a scroll several feet at French director Justine Triet. The 85-year-old Oscar winner had just presented Triet with the Palme dOr award for best movie for Anatomy of a Fall. After giving a speech, Triet stepped away from the microphone, leaving the scroll, which is part of the award, behind. Jane Fonda presents Justine Triet with the Palme D'Or Award for Fonda gamely picked up the scroll and threw a perfect pass at Triet's back, causing audience members to laugh. (Watch Fonda's impressive scroll toss around the 51:25 mark in the video below.) Fonda's playful toss was one of the many highlights of the festival this year. Just days before, "America's Got Talent" judge Heidi Klum wowed onlookers when she strutted the festival's red-carpeted stairs in a bright yellow flowing dress featuring a cape that resembled butterfly wings. The German-born supermodel, 49, was at the festival on May 24 to attend the premiere of the French period film La Passion de Dodin Bouffant. Oscar winner Jennifer Lawrence also added whimsy to the annual event when she paired a glamorous red Christian Dior gown with a decidedly less glamorous pair of black flip-flops. Hollywood legend Harrison Ford proved love was in the air at Cannes when he walked the red carpet hand in hand with longtime love Calista Flockhart at the May 18 world premiere of his new movie, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny." The 80-year-old actor also brought laughs with his response after a bold reporter at the festival noted how "hot" his body looked in the film. Though he was momentarily flustered by the remark, Ford composed himself long enough to joke, "Look, I have been blessed with this body. After a hilarious dramatic pause while the crowd laughed, he added, Thanks for noticing." This article was originally published on TODAY.com [Source] A district court in Nagoya, Japan, has become the second district court in the country to rule that banning same-sex couples from marrying is unconstitutional. Tuesdays ruling marked the end of a lawsuit that a male same-sex couple filed in February 2019, in which they sued their local government after their marriage registration was not recognized. While the Nagoya court ruled the unconstitutionality of same-sex marriage, it reportedly rejected the plaintiffs demand of 1 million yen each (approximately $7,150) as compensation. The ruling was met with celebration on Tuesday from the plaintiffs, whose names were not revealed, and other supporters of LGBTQ+ rights who waited outside the Nagoya District Court waving rainbow flags. More from NextShark: Man Sucker Punched, Loses Tooth in Random Attack in Washington DC I feel the way of thinking is changing with the times," one of the plaintiffs told reporters. In March 2021, Hokkaido's Sapporo District Court became the first district court in Japan to rule that not recognizing same-sex marriage is a violation of Article 14 of Japan's constitution. All of the people are equal under the law and there shall be no discrimination in political, economic or social relations because of race, creed, sex, social status or family origin, the constitution states. More from NextShark: Woman in China horrified after man adopts her dog and threatens to butcher it if she won't pay ransom In their lawsuit, the Nagoya couple argued that their local government went against Article 14 by not recognizing their marriage. On Tuesday, the judge declared that not recognizing same-sex marriage is a violation of both Article 14 and Article 24, with the latter stating that laws shall be enacted from the standpoint of individual dignity and the essential equality of the sexes. According to lawyer Mizutani Yoko, Nagoyas verdict is a huge step toward marriage equality in Japan, and the court has made a more thorough decision on the issue of same-sex marriage than any other district court so far. More from NextShark: Drug Smuggling Cat Successfully Breaks Out of Prison in Sri Lanka Other similar lawsuits pertaining to same-sex marriage have also been filed in other Japanese cities in the past few years. District courts in Osaka and Tokyo, however, ruled last year that banning same-sex marriage is not a violation of the constitution. More from NextShark: UCLA community put on alert over white supremacist rally flyer that praised Atlanta spa shooter Flash Five members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) were reported killed and others injured in an airstrike on Wednesday. The attack targeted a PFLP site located in the eastern Lebanese town of Qusaya, near the Syrian border, according to the Elnashra news website. The PFLP issued a statement accusing Israel of launching the air raid to bolster "the image of its deterrence," indicating that two officers with the rank of lieutenant colonel were killed in the raid. "Our war, which is being waged by the axis of resistance, will culminate in a clear victory on the entire Palestinian national soil by raising the flag of liberation over Jerusalem and beyond," the PFLP statement said. Unnamed sources from Israel have denied involvement in the attack, according to media reports. No official statement has been released by Israel, the Lebanese army, or the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. The PFLP maintains positions along the border between Lebanon and Syria, while also maintaining a military presence in both countries. It has a history of conducting attacks against Israel. In recent years, Israeli air strikes on Lebanon have been infrequent. However, in April, Israel launched raids in southern Lebanon in response to a barrage of rockets fired at Israel. The rocket attacks resulted in the injury of two Syrian workers and caused some property damage. Japan PM orders $26 billion to be set aside for childcare, more debt may follow Japan PM orders $26 billion to be set aside for childcare, more debt may follow FILE PHOTO: Local children play on Japan's westernmost inhabited Yonaguni Island in Yonaguni, Okinawa By Yoshifumi Takemoto and Tetsushi Kajimoto TOKYO (Reuters) -Japan's government will set aside $26 billion for new child care measures, slightly more than earlier estimated, in a move likely to add more debt to the industrial world's heaviest public debt burden. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has vowed to double such spending over the next three years to arrest the country's dwindling birth rate, even if that means further aggravating the government's fiscal position. Kishida told ministers on Wednesday he wanted to increase the planned child care spending, which is on top of the agenda for his administration's mid-year economic policy guidelines to be adopted in mid-June. The measures are aimed at supporting higher education, preventing child abuse in poverty, and ensuring medical care for handicapped children, Economy Minister Shigeyuki Goto cited Kishida as telling the ministers' meeting. There was no discussion on sources of funding, he added. Japan is already the industrial world's most indebted government with public debt that is more than double the size of its economy. The government is leaning towards introducing a new type of bonds to raise funds for education fees, Kyodo news agency reported. "The talk of this budget comes at delicate time when the government tries to bring in the primary budget surplus while government debt balloons,' said Koya Miyamae, senior economist at SMBC Nikko Securities. "It could complicate matters when it comes for the Bank of Japan to alter monetary easing at the risk of shooting up borrowing costs." The spectre of doubling child care as well as military spending aimed at coping with threats from China and North Korea runs counter to any move towards fiscal reform. Kishida has ruled out sales tax hikes as an option, while his government is looking to tap increased premiums for public medical and slash other social welfare outlays to fund more childcare spending. Births in Japan plunged to a record low in 2022, official estimates show, dropping below 800,000 for the first time - a watershed moment that came eight years earlier than the government had expected. ($1 = 135.0500 yen) (Reporting by Yoshifumi Takemoto and Tetsushi Kajimoto; Editing by Himani Sarkar and Kim Coghill) [Source] A Japan-based fashion company has collaborated with Sailor Moon to offer a limited-time shoe collection inspired by the Sailor Guardians. Maylas new products were released on May 26, around two weeks before the initial release of Toei Companys upcoming two-part film, Sailor Moon Cosmos. The shoes have different colorways and are based on Eternal Sailor Moon, Eternal Sailor Mercury, Eternal Sailor Mars, Eternal Sailor Jupiter and Eternal Sailor Venus. More from NextShark: How summer became Japans 'spooky season' Fans of Eternal Sailor Moon can expect white pumps with dark blue and pink accents. Meanwhile, the Eternal Sailor Mercury pumps feature various shades of blue; the Eternal Sailor Mars pumps include red, violet and burgundy; the Eternal Sailor Jupiter pumps include green, pink and brown; and the Eternal Sailor Venus pumps include cream, gold and blue. More from NextShark: Masa Takumi becomes first Japanese artist to win Grammy for Best Global Music Album More from NextShark: Legendary Edo period book on ninja arts discovered in a 'ninja village' in Japan Each pair costs 28,600 yen (approximately $205) and comes with a unique charm, outsole and ribbon, as well as a special box. The shoes will be available for purchase on Maylas website until July 11. More from NextShark: Japanese startup develops edible cement out of food waste [Source] A Japanese convenience store chain will start offering edible spoons in June that customers can use to eat ice cream. Ministop, which has around 2,000 branches across Japan, is battling plastic spoons this summer with a new wafer spoon, according to a press release. The convenience store chain is also releasing a new ice cream flavor called Nagano Purple in conjunction with the edible spoons launch. The sweet treats name was inspired by the purple grapes that grow in Nagano Prefecture. More from NextShark: 7-Eleven Japan testing out touch-free holographic self-checkouts The forthcoming edible spoon is an improved version of a past Ministop product. Last year, select branches offered edible spoons in an effort to reduce plastic waste and asked customers to voice their opinions. Over 90% of 400 survey participants reacted positively to the spoons. Now, Ministop is set to release edible spoons with an altered length and shape in an attempt to improve the ice cream eating experience even more. Plastic spoons will still be available for customers who prefer them. More from NextShark: Meet the war hero who invented banana ketchup Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! Studio Ghibli previews theme park attractions at touring exhibition in Japan BBC Chef Hersha Patel Watches as Uncle Roger Roasts Jamie Oliver The 'Selling Sunset' star and the model met while vacationing in Greece last summer and recently moved into a new home together in L.A. Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic Jason Oppenheim and Marie Lou Nurk have called it quits after 10 months. "While we still love and care about each other very much the distance between us has proven to be too great a challenge to overcome," Jason wrote on his Instagram story alongside a photo of the pair looking off into the sunset. " He continued, "We remain close friends and continue to talk often and support each other and we want the very best for one another. We thank everyone for their support throughout our relationship." The news comes just a few days after Nurk spoke candidly about the struggles of dating long distance during an Instagram Q&A. Related: Who Is Marie-Lou Nurk? What to Know About Jason Oppenheim's Girlfriend After Her 'Selling Sunset' Debut Jason Oppenheim/Instagram The 25-year-old model, who had been splitting her time between Paris and L.A., responded to a question about Oppenheim's reaction to her moving back to France. "The truth is, we both knew from the beginning that I would have to move back because of my job, friends, and family being here," she wrote in her response. "Long distance relationships can be tough, but we're both committed to making it work. We make sure to communicate regularly and make time for each other despite the distance." She continued: "While it's not always easy, we both believe that our love is worth the effort. I'm grateful to have such a supportive partner who understands my goals and passions. At the end of the day, it's important to follow your heart and pursue your dreams, even if it means taking risks and facing challenges." Now, it seems that the distance proved too great, as their romance ends after 10 months together. Related: Jason Oppenheim's Girlfriend Marie-Lou Nurk Says She's 'Committed' to Making Long Distance Relationship Work Richard McLaren The Selling Sunset star met Nurk while both were vacationing on the Greek island of Mykonos last July and they have enjoyed a jetsetting romance ever since. The were first spotted sharing some PDA during their trip abroad in July 2022, which came six months after the Selling Sunset star's split with ex Chrishell Stause. While Oppenheim said wasn't looking for a relationship at the time, he couldn't deny the spark with Nurk. Mary-Lou/Instagram The couple made things Instagram and red carpet official in August, when they attended an L.A. movie premiere together. They recently moved into a new luxury condo in Los Angeles together. The nearly 5,500-square-foot space was listed last year for $18 million, making it the most expensive condo listing in Los Angeles in 2022. The former couple gave PEOPLE an exclusive tour of their new space in February. "We're living here, I think, for many years," the Oppenheim Group co-founder said at the time. "I've lived in many nice places, but this is my favorite place by far." @benjamindiedering Nurk also appears in the current sixth season of his hit Netflix show. Cameras captured the moment Oppenheim introduced his girlfriend to the women of The Oppenheim Group. In September, Nurk told Vogue Germany that she was "excited" to appear on the reality series but admitted that she's had "a lot less privacy" since getting involved with Oppenheim. Adam Rose/Netflix Related: Inside 'Selling Sunset' Star Jason Oppenheim and Girlfriend Marie Lou Nurk's 'Pretty Perfect' New L.A. Condo "There are always not only positives but negative aspects when one lives out in the open. Whether it's on social media, in the press or on TV, one is much more quickly judged," she explained, adding that she didn't have time to prepare for her Selling Sunset cameo. "On a reality show, it's actually better not to think too much about it so it's not unnatural." Charlotte Lobry @charlottelobry Related: Jason Oppenheim's Dating History: From Chrishell Stause to Marie-Lou Nurk Earlier this month, the pair briefly sparked marriage rumors. The couple jointly posted a series of photos of Nurk in a white, feather-adorned mini dress and Oppenhiem in a black suit and white shirt. The images, by photographer Charlotte Lobry, show the couple playfully running and lounging beside a luxurious hotel pool, as well as posing in the front seat of a vintage car. The post was initially captioned, "Here's to a lifetime of adventures," but quickly changed to, "You always make me smile," after congratulatory messages began to fill the comments. Oppenheim set the record straight in an exclusive statement to PEOPLE: "Lou and I quickly realized that our post on Instagram made it look like we had just been married. We received numerous congratulatory texts, as well as angry texts from friends asking why they weren't invited, so quickly changed the caption! All these photos were from an event that we went to together a couple of months ago." For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Jeff Bezos Is Being Trolled After Paying Thousands For A $600 Bottle Of Wine Karwai Tang - Getty Images Jeff Bezos celebrated his engagement to Emmy Award-winning journalist Lauren Sanchez at La Petite Maison in Cannes, France, over the weekend. And because the man's a billionaire, he shelled out a casual $4,285 on a bottle of Dugat-Py Grand Cru wine from Domaine Bernard for the occasion. The fact that Bezos dropped over $4,000 on a bottle of wine isn't the news. It's this: according to wine experts, this specific small batch red Burgundy goes for much, much less. "Wine fact of the day: Bezos knows less than you and got mega ripped off in France," Parcelle Wine, a Lower East Side-based shop, wrote on Instagram. According to The New York Post, that same Burgundy sold for just $647.29 at an auction on March 3, 2022. Oh, and that included a 20 percent buyer's premium. "The wine, Chambertin, is from the fabled Chambertin vineyard in the Cote DOr section in Burgundy. This vineyard is one of the most revered in the world," a North Fork wholesale wine expert told the outlet while noting that the producer, Dugat-Py, "makes about 220 bottles of it a year, about one barrel." The internet did what the internet does best and trolled TF out of the Amazon founder as a result. "LOL what did he think he was ordering, Rousseau Chambertin?" one user wrote on Instagram, to which Parcelle responded "Love is blind." Another commenter chimed in on the convo, writing, "This explains Amazons shitty wine selection." Bezos reportedly enjoyed his overpriced bottle of Burgundy in a vine-covered gazebo that looked out across the Mediterranean with his sister, Christina Bezos Poore, and her husband Steve Poore (yes, we get the irony of their name). Considering the tech mogul's net worth, though, I don't think he's too bothered by about the $4k price tag. You Might Also Like Joe Manchin is set to get a big win out of the debt ceiling deal on a gas pipeline that Virginia Democrats and environmentalists hate A section of the Mountain Valley Pipeline, MVP, is halted above a wetland area August 25, 2022 in Ireland, West Virginia. Robert Nickelsberg/Getty Images Sen. Joe Manchin, a West Virginia Democrat, has long pushed for a controversial gas pipeline. The 303-mile pipeline, which also runs through Virginia, has faced a slew of legal challenges. The debt ceiling deal will likely force federal agencies to approve the project's remaining permits. Sen. Joe Manchin looks like he'll be getting a long-sought win out of the debt ceiling fight. The Democrat and his fellow West Virginia lawmakers have for years pushed for the completion of a controversial 303-mile pipeline that would carry Appalachian shale gas from northwestern West Virginia to southern Virginia. The $6.6 billion project, which has been under construction for more than five years, has been slowed by lawsuits and other complications. In an effort to find a bipartisan agreement on a debt ceiling deal, President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy included a provision in the deal that would force federal agencies to approve all the remaining permits the project requires. It would allow the project, which has run into a slew of legal troubles, to bypass the courts and fast-track construction. Manchin praised House Republicans for joining his effort in a Sunday statement that notably didn't mention the president. "I am pleased Speaker McCarthy and his leadership team see the tremendous value in completing the MVP to increase domestic energy production and drive down costs across America and especially in West Virginia," he said. A spokesperson for Manchin didn't immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Environmental groups and Democratic lawmakers have taken issue with the climate and environmental impacts of the pipeline, which cuts through national forest land and key bodies of water, and with congressional efforts to exempt it from judicial review. The US Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit has repeatedly tossed out permits for the project for violating environmental regulations. Last month, the court rejected a key water quality certification the pipeline needed in West Virginia and found that it violated the Clean Water Act. Virginia's Democratic lawmakers are staunchly opposed to the pipeline provision. The state's Democratic House delegation introduced an amendment on Tuesday to remove the pipeline language from the debt limit bill. Virginia Sens. Tim Kaine and Mark Warner have also both condemned the provision and Kaine has said he'll propose an amendment to strip it from the debt deal. It's unclear if efforts to strip the pipeline permitting from the bill will succeed, given the short timeline needed to pass the debt ceiling deal before the US defaults as soon as June 5. Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (@RepMcClellan) May 30, 2023 "Senator Kaine is extremely disappointed by the provision of the bill to greenlight the controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline in Virginia, bypassing the normal judicial and administrative review process every other energy project has to go through," a spokesperson for Kaine said in a statement to Insider. "This provision is completely unrelated to the debt ceiling matter. He plans to file an amendment to remove this harmful Mountain Valley Pipeline provision." The spokesperson said that Kaine doesn't support Congress putting its thumb on the scale of a specific project. The senator has also cited his constituents' concerns with land being taken by eminent domain for its construction. The White House didn't respond to Insider's request for comment about Democratic opposition to the Mountain Valley Pipeline's inclusion in the debt limit deal. But White House climate adviser John Podesta told members of Congress on a call earlier this week that the pipeline would've been completed regardless and the provision "doesn't have much of an effect" on that outcome, The Washington Post reported. Correction: May 31, 2023 This story was updated to clarify Sen. Tim Kaine's position on the pipeline. Read the original article on Business Insider Join the Brain Tumor walk in honor of Jovita Moore this weekend Channel 2 Action News is remembering our own Jovita Moore for Brain Cancer Awareness Month. Moore died in 2021 after a brave fight with an aggressive form of brain cancer called glioblastoma. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Channel 2s Audrey Washington was at the Battery in Cobb County Wednesday, where the Brain Tumor Societys walk and race will happen on Saturday. Laura ONeill lost her husband, Kevin, to a brain tumor. This Saturday, shell join hundreds of others to take part in the annual walk to end brain cancer one step at a time. TRENDING STORIES: Kevin ONeill, who was a father of two, was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2017. ONeill said he was seemingly healthy until he started to have problems with his speech. Our lives changed in a millisecond, ONeill said. If we dont stop, we will be successful. You have to keep fighting, keep looking, keep searching. According to the National Brain Tumor Society, more than 90,000 people in the U.S. will receive a primary brain tumor diagnosis in 2023. At least 19,000 people are estimated to die from brain cancer this year. Studies show that brain cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in children 19 years old and younger, accounting for three out of every 10 cancer deaths [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Washington spoke to Laura McKeithen, whose 21-year-old daughter, Liza Burke, died shortly after doctors diagnosed her with a brain tumor on her brain stem. A tumor on your brain stem is just a matter of time before your death, McKeithen said. I hope they can make some strides and be able to eradicate brain tumors. The event will include survivors, patients and even research scientists. If you would like to register for the Georgia Brain Tumor Walk and Race, you can register HERE. Joran van der Sloot can't be accused of killing Natalee Holloway because body has 'never been found': Lawyer Joran van der Sloot, the prime suspect in the disappearance of Natalee Holloway, cannot be accused of murdering her because her body has never been found, his lawyer says. Van der Sloot is the prime suspect in the Alabama student's May 2005 disappearance during her Mountain Brook High School of Alabama . senior class trip to Aruba. The Dutch national is facing charges of extortion and wire fraud in the United States after he allegedly tried to sell Beth Holloway, Natalee's mother, information regarding the location of her daughter's body. The Peruvian government ruled earlier in May that he would be temporarily transferred to the United States to face those charges, then returned to the United States when he's sentenced. Federal prosecutors say van der Sloot asked for $250,000 $25,000 up front for the information and the rest being paid out when the body of Natalee Holloway was positively identified. JORAN VAN DER SLOOT HAS FANS 'ALL OVER THE WORLD' WHO SEND NATALEE HOLLOWAY SUSPECT HUNDREDS PER MONTH: LAWYER Joran Van der Sloot of the Netherlands (C) is transferred by the police from the police headquarters to the prosecutor's office in Lima June 10, 2010. An official at the Peruvian national police's criminal investigations unit told Reuters on Tuesday that Van der Sloot admitted he killed 21-year-old Stephany Flores, whose body was found in a Lima hotel room last week. His Peruvian lawyer, Maximo Altez, told Fox News Digital that van der Sloot cannot be accused of killing Natalee Holloway because her body has never been found. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP "Mrs. Holloway is sure that he killed her daughter. I have never said that [van der Sloot] had nothing to do with the homicide, what I have said is that they are taking Joran for extorsion and bank fraud. They can't accuse him of the girl's murder because the body has never been found," Altez said. "[van der Sloot] believes that he will win in the United States, the evidence shows that they were the ones who contacted him, not the other way around. Joran took the $25,000 USD and disappeared; the FBI lost track of him. The FBI itself did not know where he was. And he appeared in Peru." NATALEE HOLLOWAY CASE: JORAN VAN DER SLOOT EXTRADITION 'COORDINATION' BEGINS FRIDAY, PERU INTERPOL CHIEF SAYS Joran Van der Sloot (L) is escorted by police officers to the airport in Santiago June 4, 2010. Van der Sloot of the Netherlands, who was arrested twice over the disappearance of a U.S. student in Aruba in 2005, has been expelled from Chile and will be handed out to Peruvian authorities where he is a prime suspect in a new murder probe, according to local media reports. Altez previously told Fox News Digital that van der Sloot has fans from "all over the world" who send him hundreds of dollars per month. "All his fans from all over the world sent letters to Joran. I rented him a P.O. Box to receive them. Some letters brought 10 euros, 20 euros, 5 dollars. They were girls who wrote and sent him letters with money, and he answered them all," Altez said. NATALEE HOLLOWAY CASE: PERUVIAN INTERPOL CHIEF REVEALS HOW JORAN VAN DER SLOOT EXTRADITION WILL GO DOWN Natalee Holloway was last seen alive in Aruba while on a Mountain Brook high school senior trip. Van der Sloot is in a Peruvian prison for the murder of 21-year-old Stephany Flores in 2010. His original sentence was 28 years, but he got more time because of a drug smuggling scandal in prison. He will be transferred from Challapalca Maximum Security Prison to a different prison in Lima, Peru before he's transferred from Peru to the United States in early June. Natalee Holloway's mother, Beth, said in an earlier statement shared with Fox News Digital that the transfer gives a chance for justice to finally be served. "I was blessed to have had Natalee in my life for 18 years, and as of this month, I have been without her for exactly 18 years. She would be 36 years old now," Beth Holloway said. "It has been a very long and painful journey, but the persistence of many is going to pay off. Together, we are finally getting justice for Natalee." Jordan's Crown Prince Is Getting Married. Here's What We Know About the Lavish Royal Wedding Jordans Crown Prince Hussein and his wife, Rajwa al-Seif, standing in a car following their wedding Jordans Crown Prince Hussein and his wife, Saudi Rajwa al-Seif, wave as they leave the Zahran Palace in Amman on June 1, 2023 following their royal wedding ceremony. Credit - Khalil MazraawiAFP/Getty Images For the first time in almost 30 years, a future King of Jordans Royal Hashemite Court married in a lavish wedding ceremony on June 1. Crown Prince Husseinthe 28-year-old eldest son and heir of King Abdullah II and Queen Raniawed Rajwa Khaled bin Musaed bin Saif bin Abdulaziz Al Saif, 29, after announcing their engagement in August. The Jordanian royal family, known as the Hashemites, have ruled Jordan since 1921first as emirs of the Emirate of Transjordan under a British protectorate and later as kings after the country gained independence from Britain in 1946. The Hashemites hail from the House of Hashem that ruled Mecca from as early as the 10th century, and King Abdullah II is a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. The last time a Hashemite wedding of this scale took place was in 1997 when Abdullah II, then a prince, married Rania Al-Yassin, born in Kuwait to Palestinian parents. The ruling couple share three other children: Princess Iman, 26, who married Jameel Alexander Thermiotis, a Venezuelan venture capitalist of Greek descent in a smaller ceremony in March; Princess Salma, 22; and Prince Hashem, 18. As part of festivities last week, Queen Rania hosted an opulent henna party for her future daughter-in-law and hundreds of women at the Madareb Bani Hashem, where she delivered a glowing welcome speech. Ill never forget how happy his majesty and I were when Al Hussein told us he wanted to marry Rajwa, Rania told guests, according to People. She is the perfect answer to all my prayers for him. May you always be each others source of happiness and support. She also said she believes her father-in-law, King Husseinwho was proclaimed king at age 16 in 1952 and reigned until his death in 1999would be proud of the way she has raised his grandson. As Hussein and Rajwas wedding day unfolds, heres everything we know so far about the event. What to know about Crown Prince Hussein Crown Prince Hussein is a captain in the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army and a graduate of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, England, as well as Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. In 2015, Hussein became the youngest ever person to chair a U.N. Security Council meeting to discuss how young people can confront extremism and terrorism. He also addressed the U.N. General Assembly in 2017, and has supported his father on diplomatic overseas visits including meetings with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House in May 2022, and again in February. King of Jordan Abdullah II and Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah of Jordan meet with U.S. President Joe Biden in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 2, 2023. Royal Hashemite Court/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images The royal notably did not grow up as heir to the throne; Abdullah stripped his half-brother Prince Hamzahthe former heir apparentof his title in 2004. In April 2001, Hamzah issued a video message claiming to be under house arrest for calling out corruption among Jordans leaders. In March 2022, the royal court released a letter claimed to be written by Hamzah, seeking his brothers forgiveness. The royal has rarely been seen in public since. Who is Rajwa Al-Saif? Rajwa, a Saudi Arabian national, is an architect and the youngest daughter of Saudi businessman Khalid bin Musaed bin Saif bin Abdulaziz al-Saif. She has three older siblings: Faisal, Nayef, and Dana. Rajwa has her own royal connections as her mother is part of the Al Sudairi family, Saudi Arabias ruling family. Rajwa is the second cousin of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. Read More: The First Royal Wedding of 2023 Was an Intimate Ceremony. Heres What to Know About Jordans Princess Iman She studied at Syracuse University in New York and the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. She worked at an architectural firm in Los Angeles before moving back to Riyadh, the Saudi capital. Rajwa became engaged to Hussein in August at her family home but little else is known about how the couple met. Since then, the soon-to-be crown princess has undertaken a number of royal engagements including a prominent role in Princess Imans wedding. What did the wedding consist of? As Rajwa celebrated at her henna party, thousands of young Jordanians attended a free tribute concert titled We Rejoice in Hussein at Amman International Stadium. The show featured performances from prominent Arab musicians such as Tamer Hosny, Ahmed Saad, Ragheb Alama, Zain Awad, and Diana Karazon. For his excellency the beloved crown prince lets hear a huge round of applause, Hosny told stadium crowds, according to the Associated Press. The artists are said to have volunteered their services as a gift to Jordanian citizens. The wedding day has been marked with its own calligraphy logo featuring the words we rejoice in Arabic. A man hands out posters of Jordans Crown Prince Hussein and his fiancee, Saudi architect Rajwa Alseif, during a concert at a sports stadium in Amman, Jordan, on May 29, 2023. Nasser NasserAP The night before the wedding, on May 31, over 4,000 male guests joined the royal court for a dinner party that showcased the culture of Jordans Hashemite Arab rulers. Among those in attendance at Raghadan, the oldest royal palace, were high-ranking officials, business and military figures, and representatives from across Jordanian society. The Islamic marriage ceremony took take place at Zahran Palace in Amman at 4 p.m. local time, where the couple signed marriage contracts with their fathers acting as their two witnesses. Sheikh Ahmed Al Khalayla oversaw the ceremony and the couple read the Fatiha verse from the Quran before exchanging rings. Rajwa wore a silver tiara and a white asymmetrical wedding gown and veil designed by Elie Saab and she was escorted through the venue by Husseins younger brother Hashem. Meanwhile, Hussein wore black, white, and red military regalia complete with gold embellishments. Queen Rania wore a full-length black dress with a gold choker and cuff detailing from Christian Diors fall 2022 showcase. Guests will finish the night at the Al Husseiniya Palace at the wedding party and banquet. A 10 km (6 mi.) royal procession will take place later between the two venues, as part of the countrys Hashemite traditions dating back to 1946. As part of preparations, images of the prince were placed along the convoy route. Seventy-one members of the Royal Guard, who will likely wear red scarves, will lead a procession of around 20 red land rovers and motorcycles. Public transportation is free for all citizens who wish to watch the procession in person, and the day has been declared a national holiday. Who attended the ceremony? Hussein and Rajwas high profile nuptials saw a number of global royals traveling to Jordan to witness the historic event. Among those attending were Malaysias King Sultan Abdullah; King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia of Spain; the King and Queen of the Netherlands; Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark; Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and Prince Daniel, Duke of Vastergotland, Prince Sebastien of Luxembourg; Haakon, Crown Prince of Norway; Hisako, Princess Takamado, and her daughter, Princess Tsuguko of Takamado of Japan. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and Prince Daniel of Sweden leave their hotel for the wedding of Crown Prince Al Hussein Bin Abdullah of Jordan in Amman on June 1, 2023. Patrick van KatwijkGetty Images Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, represented the UAE, and Sheikha Moza bint Nasser attended on behalf of Qatar. Also present was the Crown Prince of Oman, Kuwaits Crown Prince Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, Iraqi president, Latif Rashid, as well as other dignitaries from Rwanda, Pakistan, Egypt, and Lebanon. Fresh from her attendance on May 6 at the coronation of King Charles in London, U.S. First Lady Jill Biden was also present at the wedding. She was greeted on arrival in Amman by Hadeel Aziz, the 2023 International Women of Courage Award winner. Prince William and Kate Middleton, who share a fondness for the nation and took their children there in 2021, were guests at the wedding. Kate also wore an Elie Saab couture dress in a blush pink shade with a high neck and long sleeves. The British couple were joined by Princess Beatrice of York and her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. By William Schomberg LONDON (Reuters) - One year after British reporter Dom Phillips was murdered in Brazil while working on a book about saving the Amazon rain forest, a group of journalists aims to complete the project, his family and former colleagues said on Thursday. "How to Save the Amazon: Ask the People Who Know" is due to be published by Manilla Press, an imprint of publisher Bonnier Books, subject to fund-raising to allow completion of the remaining work. Phillips - a freelance journalist who wrote for the Guardian, the Washington Post and other media - had completed only half the book when he was killed alongside Bruno Pereira, an expert on indigenous issues, near Brazil's border with Peru. Brazilian police have said the alleged leader of a local gang planned the murders because Pereira posed a threat to its illegal fishing operation. Among the writers who will help to finish the work are Jon Lee Anderson who writes for the New Yorker, Tom Phillips and Jonathan Watts who work for the Guardian, and Andrew Fishman, president of the Intercept Brasil, as well as Brazilian writers. They will use notes and transcriptions of interviews conducted by Dom Phillips and conduct their own research trips to the Amazon region to complete the missing chapters. Other journalists who also have experience covering issues related to the Amazon will fact-check and proofread the draft chapters, Watts said. "Dom was killed for this book," he said. "The least we can do is finish the task to which he had devoted the latter part of his life. He may be gone, but he won't be silenced." Four people have been charged with double homicide and concealment of corpses. (Writing by William Schomberg; Editing by David Gregorio) You are here: World Flash Nearly 2,800 Afghan refugees returned to their homeland Afghanistan from neighboring Iran on Tuesday, Afghanistan's Ministry for Refugees and Repatriation Affairs said in a statement released in Kabul on Wednesday. "A total of 2,778 Afghan refugees returned to their homeland Afghanistan on Tuesday after years of living as refugees in Iran, and the process of returning the refugees to their country continues," the statement added. More than 2.5 million registered Afghan refugees reportedly live in Iran, and about the same number of Afghan refugees live in Pakistan. The Afghan caretaker government has been calling upon Afghan refugees living abroad to return home and contribute to the reconstruction process of their war-ravaged country. Two journalists responsible for breaking the story of Mahsa Amini, the Kurdish-Iranian woman killed after being held in custody by Irans morality police last year, stood trial in an Iranian court this week. Niloufar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi have been imprisoned in Iran for the past eight months and face charges of conspiracy and rebellion against national security and anti-state propaganda charges carrying a possible death penalty, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF). The two women separately stood trial on Monday and Tuesday in a revolutionary court presided over by notorious judge Abolghasem Salavati, according to Iranian pro-reform outlet SharghDaily. The trial comes after nationwide protests rocked Iran last fall, as anger over the regimes treatment of women and other issues flared up after the death of 22-year-old Amini. Authorities violently suppressed the months-long movement, which had posed one of the biggest domestic threats to Irans ruling clerical regime in more than a decade. Protesters in downtown Tehran, Iran, after the death Mahsa Amini. - AP Hamedi was arrested after visiting Amini in hospital and reporting on her serious medical condition and coma after she was in police custody, according to RSF. SharghDaily said Hamedi was denied access to lawyers for most of her detention, while the UN said the journalist has been held in solitary confinement in the notorious Evin Prison since September. In her trial on Tuesday, Hamedi denied all accusations and highlighted her journalistic duties within the law, her husband, Mohammad Hossein Ajorloo, wrote on Twitter. Mohammadi, who also stood trial in a separate hearing, was arrested after reporting on Aminis funeral in September, according to RSF and the UN. The families of the journalists were informed of the charges seven months after the arrests were made, RSF said. Hamedi, Mohammadi and another detained journalist, Narges Mohammadi, were awarded the prestigious 2023 UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize for outstanding contribution to press freedom. We are committed to honoring the brave work of Iranian female journalists, Zainab Salbi, the jury Chair, said according to a UN statement, adding They paid a hefty price for their commitment to report on and convey the truth. The Iranian government has continued to clamp down on dissent with several recent death sentences handed down to protesters. Critics say the regime has taken capital punishment to a new level. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com A judge has agreed to grant a protective order for Andrew Lester, the Kansas City Northlander charged in the shooting of 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, because of ongoing threats and harassment toward the 84-year-old. As a result of the decision filed Tuesday by Clay County Judge Louis Angles, who is overseeing the criminal case, all discovery in the case will be sealed and will not be accessible to the public. The public, including the media, will still be allowed in the courtroom as the case proceeds. The order only prevents the public from viewing certain filings in the case, including materials and evidence that could be used at trial. Lester is charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action after he allegedly shot Yarl twice in the head and the arm after the teen mistakenly came to his door in April while trying to pick up his younger brothers from an address one street over. Yarl later told police he was shot immediately after Lester opened the door, and he overheard Lester say: Dont come around here. During his interview with police, Lester, who is white, accused Yarl of pulling his door handle an account that is disputed by Yarl and his family and said he shot him because he was scared to death of the tall, Black stranger at his door. The case grabbed international attention almost immediately as politicians, celebrities and even President Joe Biden called for justice for Yarl. Lesters attorney Stephen Salmon previously pointed out that while prosecutors did not charge Lester with a crime alleging racial motivation in the shooting of Yarl, there was still mass speculation around his motivations and he had been cast in a negative and racist light, which could later harm his right to an impartial jury and a fair trial, a Constitutional right. Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson previously asked Angles to publicly explain his reasoning if he approved the protective order. Justice should not only be done but be shown to be done, Thompson said last week. Angles in his ruling noted the extensive local, national and international attention the case has garnered, including on NPR, FOX News, the BBC, the New York Times and the Washington Post. The judge also noted an interview on Inside Edition with Lesters ex-wife, who alleges he abused her more than 50 years ago when they were married, and a CNN interview with Lesters grandson, who said Lester has racist tendencies. That grandson in an interview with The Star said his grandfather had been influenced by more extreme conservative viewpoints and a 24-hour news cycle of fear and paranoia. Two other relatives said they didnt believe Lester was a racist and thought he likely was scared when he shot Yarl. The shooting renewed national conversations about racism, and racial bias, both explicit and implicit, and gun rights in the U.S. The overwhelming majority of the reporting continues to assert that the alleged actions of (Lester) were racially motivated, with if believed, virtually eliminates the defense available to (Lester) related to the reasonableness of his actions, Angles wrote in the ruling. He also noted a number of the celebrities have called for justice for Ralph, including Gwenyth Paltrow, Halle Berry, Chrissy Teigen, Kim Kardashian and Viola Davis. Angles also drew attention to a comment made by Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, who said: If Stand Your Ground really lets somebody shoot somebody that rings a doorbell, that puts the life of every postal worker, every campaigner, every Amazon delivery person at risk in this country. These statements implicitly communicate to the public that the alleged actions of the Defendant are indefensible, Angles wrote. The protective order was also granted because of ongoing threats and harassment against Lester, the judge wrote. Salmon said Lester has been forced to move three times, that his home of 40 years has been egged and spray-painted and that his wife was also forced to move nursing homes out of safety concerns. The judge also included in his reasoning a number of text messages he said Lester received on his personal cell phone after the shooting, when his number was posted on a public platform. Lester has been called a murderer over text, as well as a racist white man who should burn in hell, according to court records. Someone also threatened to shoot up Lesters home, and he received multiple messages from people saying they hope he dies. The threats and harassment demonstrate Defendants life and physical safety are in jeopardy, the judge wrote. Last week, in an interview with The Star, Yarls aunt, Faith Spoonmore, said she couldnt comment on the ongoing court case, but said she instead wanted to bring the focus back to her nephew. I just want for people to remember who the real victim is in the situation, she said. A few days earlier in court, Salmon had said that Lester was having health problems, and had lost about 40 pounds since he was charged in the shooting. Spoonmore noted on Thursday that Yarl also lost weight while in the hospital. At one point he weighed only 140 pounds. Who are you trying to paint as a victim? she asked in response to Salmons filings. Who are you trying to get sympathy for, and why? Lester is scheduled to appear in court next on Thursday. A Mississippi high school graduate has voluntarily dismissed her lawsuit against the Harrison County School District for denying her the right to wear a dress and heels to graduation, even though the transgender student wore female clothing to her Coast school for four years. In a case that garnered national media attention, U.S. District Judge Taylor McNeel ruled the school district could require the student, identified as L.B. in her lawsuit, to wear the black dress pants and shoes specified for boys in the Harrison Central High School graduation dress code. His ruling came late the night before the May 20 graduation. L.B. chose not to attend. Instead, she told her story on CNN and attended a Trans Prom in Washington, D.C., wearing a blue dress. McNeel issued a one-page order in the case denying L.B.s request to wear her dress and high heels to graduation. In the courtroom, he spent more than an hour explaining in detail how he applied the law to come up with his decision. The Sun Herald has obtained a transcript of McNeels remarks about the decision. A Harrison Central High graduate, identified as L.B., was not allowed to wear a dress to her high school graduation. The transgender teen wore dresses to school throughout her high school career. MS transgender students distress genuine, judge says L.B.s attorneys, from the American Civil Liberties Union, maintained the School Districts policy on graduation dress violated L.B.s legal and constitutional rights to equal protection, and her constitutional right to freedom of expression under the First Amendment. McNeel said that he found L.B.s testimony in the case genuine. He was careful throughout his remarks to avoid the gendered pronouns he or she when referring to L.B. McNeel also acknowledged L.B.s depression and anxiety over being denied the right to wear the dress and heels that she had picked out months earlier. Its certainly a very big deal to L.B., that L.B. be able to go to a graduation ceremony and walk across the stage wearing the specific shoes that L.B. bought back in March and wearing the specific dress that L.B. bought back in March, he said. No question that that is a huge and massive deal to L.B. and all of L.B.s family members and friends. District Judge Taylor McNeel But he said that enforcing the graduation dress code would not represent an irreparable injury to L.B., one of the legal tests for granting the extraordinary relief requested. L.B. could still choose to attend graduation, he said, and even wear long hair, makeup, a necklace and bracelets and long nails. While L.B. felt it was important to express her femininity in a dress and heels, McNeel said she also would still be able to express her gender identity in the other ways he mentioned. A different judge might disagree with him down the line, he said, and grant L.B. monetary damages. Those are things that I dont know, McNeel said. But I do know that at the very least, this is an unclear area of the law. School dress code enforces two genders McNeel also found the dress code did not violate equal protection afforded under the constitution and Title IX, an education law that prohibits discrimination based on sex. He said dress codes can be gender-based as long as the burden to comply is comparable for both sexes. He said there were no cases in the U.S. Supreme Court or in the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which covers Mississippi, that address dress codes for transgender individuals. The absence of such cases, he said, could be because transgender litigation in this country is just at its novel stages. The districts dress code requires that boys wear buttoned-down shirts, dress pants, dress shoes and a tie. The fact that there are different rules for each sex does not amount to sex discrimination, McNeel said. He said the school district offered reasons for its dress code that are unrelated to students being allowed to express themselves. Namely, the district maintained graduation is a solemn occasion where students should be dressed in their Sunday best so they will look good and reflect the standards of the community. The judge found the school district had an important objective in establishing the dress code and that it was designed to meet that goal. Dress codes unfairly target LGBTQ+ students, data shows McNeels decision to let the dress code stand in L.B.s case coincides with nationwide data showing LGBTQ+ students and girls are unfairly targeted by dress codes. A national report released by the Government Accountability Office says nearly every public school in the U.S. has a dress code. Heres what the agency found: About 93% of dress codes in the U.S. include language that allows the rules to be open for interpretation by a school. About 15% of school dress codes have rules for clothing, hairstyles and accessories based on sex. None of the schools with sex-specific dress codes have protections for transgender or non-binary students. Dress codes commonly use words like revealing or immodest when describing clothing worn by women and girls, which could also target LGBTQIA students. Schools in the South are more likely to enforce strict dress codes than any other part of the U.S. The Sun Herald reviewed Harrison Central Highs dress code policies for the school year and graduation. Neither dress code has protections for trans students. They also dont say that the school district enforces dress codes according to sex assigned at birth. L.B. has been allowed to dress in girls clothing her entire high school career, she said. The student figured when she signed the graduation dress code policy shed be following the girls dress code. The school district said they enforce dress code based on the gender on a students birth certificate. A court case involving Kanye West has taken a significant turn in his favor. According to Billboard, Manhattan Federal Judge Valerie E. Caproni denied a request by Adidas, Wests former business partner, to re-freeze $75 million held by the Yeezy brand. Adidas claimed it had paid that amount to West to market Yeezy products. It is hereby ordered that Adidass motion for a TRO is denied, Judge Caproni wrote, according to court documents obtained by Billboard. In November 2022, Judge Caproni had originally swayed in the favor of Adidas, granting the asset freeze. However, on May 26, Yeezys lawyers refuted the temporary restraining order, and it was lifted by the judge. It was ruled that Adidas had failed to comply with the procedural requirements and that Yeezy had been deprived of a fair opportunity to defend itself. Adidas lawyers moved swiftly within a matter of hours to file an emergency request for the assets to be re-freezed as they doubled down on their stance that Yeezy has no legal right to hold the funds. The lawyers said the judges recent verdict could lead to irreparable harm for Adidas at a time when Yeezy is close to insolvency. Yeezy is likely to comingle the funds with an unknown balance of funds in its possession at other financial institutions, such that it would be more difficult if not impracticable to audit those accounts and determine which monies are owned by Adidas, Adidas lawyers wrote, per Billboard. In addition, Ye (Kanye West) faces a clear risk of insolvency, giving rise to a risk of irreparable harm. Per Bloomberg, the judge explained during the hearing that Adidas would still likely recoup the $75 million in its arbitration case against Yeezy for his antisemitic comments. However, the company had failed to meet the legal criteria to be granted a temporary restraining order. The judge also added Adidas only provided tabloid speculation pertaining to Yeezys inability to pay off its debts. June in L.A. is about calendar alerts. You'll want to set a few each for these 10 events (Crenshaw Skate Club, Grau de Corral, Fredrik Nilsen Studio, Union Los Angeles, Paul Vu) Supervsn Studios flagship opening (Nailah Howze/For The Times) Founder, chief executive and creative director Gavin Mathieu expands the Supervsn universe to Slauson with the opening of the brands first flagship location The new space will be part retail experience, part gallery somewhere to shop collections, exclusive drops and limited home good runs, while also serving as a gathering space that will feature rotating installations from artists, brand collaborators and community programming from Supervsns the Studio Foundation. Co-signed by Carolyn Shaw, Blacc Sam, Blxst, Nas, Aleali May and the office of L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, the flagship will officially open with a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 3 at noon. 4440 W. Slauson Ave., Windsor Hills. supervsn.com Heaven Is a Basement at Soho Warehouse Featuring 29 contemporary artists across mediums from Lauren Halsey, to Jerry Hsu, to Brendan Lynch, to Mia Scarpa Heaven Is a Basement pays homage to the underground spaces that have nurtured L.A.s eclectic art scene. Curated by Eddie Salinas, the exhibition opens on June 10 from 7 p.m. to midnight at Soho Warehouse. Dont sleep! 1000 S. Santa Fe Ave., Los Angeles. sohohouse.com Ambush SS23 at Terminal 27 Through June 25, Ambush will host a pop-up to celebrate the brands SS23 collection at Terminal 27 in West Hollywood. Inspired by the fashion born from Tokyo club culture and the rave scene, the collection will be housed in the Terminal Gallery Room with a presentation that leans into Pop Art aesthetics. 8271 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles. ambushdesign.com Njideka Akunyili Crosby, "Coming Back to See Through, Again at David Zwirner L.A. David Zwirner christens its L.A. space with an exhibition from Njideka Akunyili Crosby, featuring new and recent works in the artist's first solo exhibition with the gallery. Akunyili Crosbys compositions include paintings, photographic transfers from archival Nigerian magazines and more that result in visual tapestries of contemporary life that evocatively express the intricacies of African diasporic identity, says the gallery. On view through July 29. 616 N. Western Ave., Los Angeles. davidzwirner.com Canada Goose at the Beverly Center Canada Goose flocks west this summer, opening its first L.A. location at the Beverly Center in June. The location will carry the brand's new warm-weather apparel, including lightweight down and footwear. 8500 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles. canadagoose.com Martine Syms, Loser Back Home at Spruth Magers Spruth Magers celebrates lauded L.A. artist Martine Syms first solo exhibition with the gallery (and its newly minted representation of her work) with Loser Back Home, a look at Syms' latest foray into the world of video, photography, sculpture and painting. On view from June 2 to Aug. 26. 5900 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles. spruethmagers.com Crenshaw Skate Club Core Logo Collection Crenshaw Skate Clubs Core Logo Collection calls back to the brands roots, bringing back the OG Logo Tee ($38) for the first time in years; and looks toward the future, introducing the first ever CSC womenswear item with the Bubble Logo Baby Tee ($25). Available now. crenshawskateclub.com De Aqui, Y De Alla at Fifteen01 Curated by Andreinna Giron and Christopher Rendon, De Aqui, Y De Alla is the group show you need this summer. With an opening reception on June 3 from 5 to 10 p.m., the exhibition features the work of artists Barrington Darius, Bobby, Jynx Prado, Brandon Davis and many, many more. Running through June 18 at Fifteen01. 1501 Daisy Ave., Long Beach. @fifteen_01 Diorivera at the Beverly Hills Hotel Dior posts up in the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel through the summer to celebrate its Dioriviera capsule collection, part of a series of global activations. The pop-up boutique housing the toile de Jouy pink and gray collection, inspired by Mediterranean beach culture and modeled after a giant sandcastle, is only one part of the Dioriviera experience. Guests can also chill under branded lounge chairs and umbrellas between luxe treatments at Les Jardin de Reves Dior Spa Cabana. Running through Sept. 4. 9641 Sunset Blvd., Beverly Hills. dior.com Union SS23 If the relentlessly gloomy weather wont tell you its summer in L.A., Unions SS23 collection will. "L.A.s humid city nights served as our muse, says Union founder Chris Gibbs, who created a collection that leans into vibrant colors, prints and silhouettes that while undoubtedly have a laid-back feel, are unique enough to have all your homies asking for the ID. Available now. unionlosangeles.com This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Jurys still out: Marshall hedges on debt deal, while Estes says he supports it Sen. Roger Marshall said Tuesday he doesnt know if a deal to raise the debt ceiling does enough to combat the national debt, leaving it uncertain whether the Kansas Republican will support the compromise less than a week before the United States is expected to default on its financial obligations. Some of Kansas congressional delegation have so far not taken a firm public position on the deal negotiated by Democratic President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, a California Republican, even with a vote expected in the House on Wednesday and, if the measure passes, in the Senate later in the week. I think the jurys still out. I think were still breaking it apart and trying to see whats in it and whats not in it as well, Marshall told reporters after an unrelated event in Kansas City, Kansas. Rep. Ron Estes, a Wichita Republican, told the House Rules Committee Tuesday that he supports the bill, saying he is fighting for fiscal sanity, cutting wasteful spending and promoting economic growth. This is the start of changing that trajectory, Estes said. The Biden-McCarthy deal would suspend the debt ceiling until January 2025, after the next presidential election. The debt ceiling is the maximum amount of money the federal government is authorized to borrow in order to pay for already-approved spending. The bill also includes spending restrictions and expanded work requirements for food assistance, among other provisions. Experts anticipate a potentially severe recession could occur if the United States runs out of cash and cant pay its bills on time. A default also raises the prospect that federal workers may not be paid on time. Marshall predicted the bill he will ultimately vote on will be different than the negotiated legislation and expected that amendments will be offered. The House Rules Committee met Tuesday to set parameters for the House debate, including for amendments. Some House Republicans oppose the deal, meaning the bill will need Democratic support to pass the House. Rep. Sharice Davids, a Kansas Democrat, was supportive of the deal, saying that after growing frustrated watching partisan politicking and gamesmanship she was glad McCarthy and Biden were able to put together a package that would allow the country to avoid default. But she stopped short of explicitly saying she would vote for the bill. I do need to continue to dig into the specifics, Davids said. We were provided the language and Im currently going over that with my team. Underscoring the need for Democratic votes, some conservative lawmakers on Tuesday began rejecting the bill. Sen. Rand Paul, a Kentucky Republican, announced he wont back the deal and will instead sponsor an amendment in the Senate with his desired spending cut. Members of the House Freedom Caucus, a far-right outpost of House Republicans, held a press conference outside the Capitol rejecting the compromise and urging members of their party to sink the bill, just days before the country could default on its debt. Pressed on what needs to be in a bill to win his support, Marshall said the bottom line is he is still concerned about the national debt, which totals about $31.8 trillion, and the roughly $500 billion in annual interest payments on it. I dont know if this bill addresses that adequately enough that we cannot just sustain this particular rate, Marshall said. The agreement would keep nondefense spending roughly flat in the 2024 fiscal year and increase it by 1% the following year. For the next fiscal year, the bill matches Bidens proposed defense budget of $886 billion and allots $704 billion for nondefense spending. The bill requires Congress to approve 12 annual spending bills or face a snapback to spending limits from the previous year, which would mean a 1% cut. Under the proposal, the upper age limit for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as food stamps) work requirements would increase from 49 to 54. But the provision expires, bringing the maximum age back down to age 49 five years later, in 2030. The bill also claws back about $30 billion in unspent COVID-19 relief funding and rollback $20 billion in increased enforcement funding for the Internal Revenue Service. The Associated Press contributed reporting The claim: Video shows Maricopa County officials sabotaging voting machines A May 28 Instagram post (direct link, archive link) shows a screenshot of a Truth Social post from former Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake. The post includes a clip of people touching and moving voting machines. "WE CAUGHT THEM," reads Lake's post. "This is VIDEO EVIDENCE from Maricopa Countys own live stream they didnt know we were recording that shows officials breaking into machines AFTER they were tested & sealed. They re-programmed the memory cards right before Election Day, causing 60% of polling locations in GOP areas to stop working. This is SABOTAGE!" The Instagram post generated over 700 likes in less than a week, and the Truth Social post received over 12,000 likes. Similar posts have garnered hundreds of interactions on Instagram. A Gateway pundit article with a similar claim received over 2,000 shares on Facebook, according to social media insights tool CrowdTangle. Follow us on Facebook! Like our page to get updates throughout the day on our latest debunks Our rating: False The video shows election workers inserting new memory cards into tabulation machines as part of standard procedures, according to a Maricopa County election spokesperson. The workers reset the machines to ensure that the memory cards have no votes stored in them. The process is not evidence of sabotage. While printers at some polling places were affected by a glitch on Election Day, the glitches were not related to this process. Maricopa County election workers did not sabotage tabulation machines Lake, a Republican, ran for governor of Arizona in 2022 and was defeated by Democrat Katie Hobbs by about 17,000 votes. She has since made numerous baseless allegations of election fraud. Lakes claim about sabotage is demonstrably false, according to Matthew Roberts, the communications manager for the Maricopa County Elections Department. The county also debunked the claim on Twitter. The clip in Lakes post, dated Oct. 14, 2022, shows the installation of new memory cards into tabulators, which happens in each election, Roberts said. The process was conducted under live stream video cameras in the countys ballot tabulation center. In a May 10 court filing, Maricopa County stated that when inserting the memory cards, the county tabulated a small number of ballots on each tabulator to ensure that the memory cards were properly inserted. The process is not evidence of misconduct, according to the filing. After the running test ballots, tabulators are reset to ensure no votes are stored on the memory cards, according to Roberts. "The tabulators are subsequently affixed with tamper-evident seals and prepared for delivery to each vote center, where poll workers perform a verification to ensure that there are not ballots recorded on the tabulator and that all results equal zero, Roberts said. Fact check: Arizona judge dismissed Kari Lake's latest election challenge on May 22 Robert said the memory cards had previously been certified through statutorily-required testing, where the county verifies that ballot-counting equipment is programmed correctly and ballots are accurately counted, according to the Maricopa County Election Departments website. Tammy Patrick, an elections expert who served as the federal compliance officer for Maricopa County Elections Department for 11 years, also told USA TODAY the video shows no evidence of impropriety. "The tabulation center has been broadcast live during ballot processing for well over a decade, almost two, in Arizona," Patrick said. "This transparency of process comes at a cost when there are actors who want to take things out of context for their own gain, to support the narrative that they wish to promote. Voters in Maricopa County should have confidence in the legitimacy of their elections and trust the process because it is transparent, observed and verified by the political parties' representatives present in the room." Lakes claim that 60% of polling locations in Republican areas stopped working is also inaccurate on multiple counts. Printers at 70 of the 223 voting locations in Maricopa County produced formatting marks on some ballots that were too light to be read by tabulator machines, as the Arizona Republic reported. An independent review found the issue was not tied to fraud, however, and Roberts said the issue was "intermittent." "In the cases where the ballots were not able to be read by a precinct tabulator, they were inserted into a secure ballot box to be counted at the ballot tabulation center," Roberts said. "The problems were 'dispersed' and not concentrated in a particular area. Previous reports clearly show that it is untrue to say that the voting centers that were impacted were only in Republican areas." A Washington Post analysis found that the proportion of registered Republicans in the affected precincts was about 37%, which is about the same as the share of registered Republicans countywide. USA TODAY reached out to Lake and the social media users who shared the claim for comment but did not immediately receive a response. Lead Stories 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 electronic newspaper replica here. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: No proof of midterm election sabotage in Maricopa County | Fact check Kate Beckinsale is belatedly expressing her gratitude to former co-stars Robert Sean Leonard and Keanu Reeves for their last-minute assistance in making sure her first-ever Cannes Film Festival appearance went smoothly. On Monday, Beckinsale posted a throwback photo on Instagram showing her on the red carpet with Leonard and Reeves just before a screening of their film, Much Ado About Nothing, at the French festival in 1993. Though the trio of stars is all smiles, Beckinsale said the image disguises the fact that she would have experienced a wardrobe malfunction were it not for Leonard and Reeves help. I had bought the bodysuit in the Sock Shop at the airport and when I got in the car to drive to the premiere with Denzel and Pauletta Washington, all the poppers in the crotch popped themselves open and it flipped up like a roller blind, the British actor wrote in the caption. I didnt feel it was appropriate to go delving around in my undercarriage with all of us in the back of the car so I just quietly panicked. Robert Sean Leonard (left), Kate Beckinsale and Keanu Reeves at the 1993 Cannes Film Festival. Robert Sean Leonard (left), Kate Beckinsale and Keanu Reeves at the 1993 Cannes Film Festival. According to Beckinsale, she informed Leonard and Reeves about the issue and the two men both jumped in to save me without reservation. In this picture I am holding the front gusset down and the two of them are holding the back gusset, she explained. Absolute legends who may not even have fully understood the physics of what was happening or even heard the word gusset before. Beckinsale, who was born in London, made her big-screen acting debut as Hero in Much Ado About Nothing, Kenneth Branaghs adaptation of William Shakespeares comedy of the same name. The film also featured appearances by Branagh, Michael Keaton and Emma Thompson. Kate Beckinsale attends the premiere of Kate Beckinsale attends the premiere of "La Passion de Dodin Bouffant" at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. As of Tuesday afternoon, Beckinsales post had received more than 128,000 likes, as well as a plethora of quirky comments from some of her other famous pals. Hysterical, wrote actor Naomi Watts. Added actor Nathalie Boltt: This move shall forever be named The Three Person Rollerblind. Its safe to say that Beckinsale has become a lot more confident in her red carpet appearances in the 30 years since Much Ado About Nothing was released. At this years Cannes Film Festival, she attended the premiere of La Passion de Dodin Bouffant in a sheer green bodysuit and floor length skirt by Zuhair Murad Couture. Related... How KC couple left corporate life to create one of the best tortilla bakeries in US A James Beard Award is often the culmination of an entire career for chefs and bakers and restaurateurs. Not so for Marissa and Mark Gencarelli, founders of Yoli Tortileria. We didnt really come from the food world, Marissa said. I didnt really know much about the Beard Foundation until last year. Thats when Yoli, which the Gencarellis started in 2017, was nominated as a semifinalist in the Outstanding Baker category the first tortilla bakery ever nominated for the award. They didnt win, but this year the tortilleria was once again nominated, and is now a finalist in the bakery category. It is one of two Kansas City area establishments to be named a James Beard finalist; the winners will be announced June 5. Zuly Martinez, Diana Forero and Maria Guzman prepare Sonoran-style flour tortillas at Yoli Tortilleria, a finalist in the Outstanding Bakery category for the 2023 James Beard Awards. Tammy Ljungblad/tljungblad@kcstar.com The Gencarellis operation has grown over the past six years from a hobby to a side hustle to a thriving business that employs 15 full-time workers, has two locations, and ships its corn and flour tortillas to more than 100 restaurants and grocery stores in the metro. The Beard nominations arent Yolis only taste of recognition beyond KC, either. Texas Monthly taco critic Jose R. Ralat has called their corn tortillas among the best in the nation, and the Gencarellis are in the process of getting Taco Stand, a taquero sauce they created, distributed in grocery stores across the country. One of the countrys most prestigious cocktail bars is in downtown Shawnee, Kansas? What became Yoli started as a way for the Gencarellis to disconnect from their corporate jobs. Marissa was raised in Obregon, Sonora, and her aunt, who still lives in that Mexican state, had given her a binder filled with Sonoran-style recipes. We would try to re-create that food, those recipes, Gencarelli said. But often the taste wasnt quite there, or the tortillas would break, and it was like, I dont remember having these problems before (in Mexico). And that was the catalyst for us to venture into doing our own thing. The Sonoran flour tortilla is like my pride and joy because thats where Im from, said Marissa Gencarelli, who hails from Sonora, Mexico. Gencarelli owns the business with her husband, Mark Gencarelli. Tammy Ljungblad/tljungblad@kcstar.com The kind of tortillas Marissa had grown up with were hard to find in Kansas City. So they set out to find a mill In order to get good corn tortillas, you need a really good mill and found one in Los Angeles. They rented some space in the East Bottoms and began cranking out tortillas using the traditional nixtamalization process, where you cook the corn blue, white, yellow with lime, let it steep, then stone grind it into fresh maize dough, then make the tortillas. Their artisan approach caught the attention of Patrick Ryan, then the chef-owner of the popular Mexican restaurant Port Fonda, who asked if they could send him tortillas seven days a week. Soon, several other local restaurants had lined up with similar requests for KCMEX, as their operation was originally called. (They changed the name to Yoli, which means to live in the Aztec language Nahuatl, in 2018). Diana Forero flips a tortilla onto a cooling rack before its packaged up and sent out to customers. Tammy Ljungblad/tljungblad@kcstar.com Mark quit his job at Timberland Forest Products to focus on their growing enterprise. But Marissa didnt. Her 16-year stint at Cerner didnt come to a close until last year. In fact, she credits some of Yolis success to lessons she learned while working in strategy and innovation at Cerner, which she described as some of the best years of my life. A lot of my job was to support and create living labs, where you bring your clients through these environments where they encounter our current and future technologies, and you figure out what to build and optimize based on that, Gencarelli said. I was exposed to constant disruptive innovation at Cerner. The Gencarellis opened their first storefront in 2020 a 400-square-foot space at 1668 Jefferson St. on the West Side, where they make flour tortillas and sell a small selection of products, and they have used the location as a kind of living lab. (They moved their corn tortilla operations last year from the East Bottoms to a manufacturing facility at 31st and Bell streets that processes approximately 15,000 pounds of corn per week.) We put out experimental products like a salsa, or chips, and see whats successful what the numbers are, how fast they sell, whats the feedback and fine-tune it until its a scalable model, Gencarelli said. The Taco Stand sauce is an example of that. We tweaked and tweaked and tweaked it based off what we learned from customers. And soon it will be a national product, starting with Kansas City grocery stores. Yoli sells two types of flour tortillas: one made with pork fat, and a vegan version made with avocado oil. Tammy Ljungblad/tljungblad@kcstar.com Like Gencarelli, Fernanda Reyes, the chef-owner behind Taco Naco KC, is also from northern Mexico. Reyes uses Yoli tortillas at her Overland Park restaurant (which will soon open a second location in the former Port Fonda space in Westport) and describes Gencarelli as a literal octopus, a genius. She is the creator and mastermind behind each of the Yoli tortilla recipes, from corn, flour, whole-grain tortillas, sauces of different flavors, fresh waters, tortilla chips, tamales, pozole, coricos, corn flour cookies, Reyes said. Every time I see her, I ask her the same question: Guey, como lo haces?! (Dude, how do you do it?!). The West Side space is also a throwback to Gencarellis Sonoran roots. Having already mastered her corn-tortilla method, she wanted to make the kind of flour tortillas she remembered from growing up in Mexico. And she wanted them to be available in a small tortilla shop like they have in Mexico. Anais Garcia packs a box of fresh tortillas at Yoli Tortillerias West Side storefront as owner Marissa Gencarellia looks on. Tammy Ljungblad/tljungblad@kcstar.com Most people in Mexico, they dont make their own tortillas, she said. They go to the local tortilleria on the corner, and in Sonora they go to get flour tortillas. Yolis version contains only four ingredients: flour, fat, sea salt and water. No yeast, no baking powder. The traditional Sonoran style is thin, but if you pull it apart, it stretches quite a bit Sonora is a cattle-rich state, and the tortillas are designed to hold healthy amounts of meat. And the lard in Yolis flour tortillas is sourced from local farms, sustainable farming being a big priority for Gencarelli. Last week, for example, she had just returned from a trip to Washington, D.C., where she was part of a group of chefs and food entrepreneurs who spoke to members of Congress about the importance of cover crops and other green farming practices. Most people, when they think of Mexican food, they think of importing everything, Gencarelli said. I just at my core of my soul dont think thats the right approach to food. I think you should try as hard as you can to source whats around you. So for me, its like, I love this recipe from Mexico, but Im here in the Midwest, so what do I have around me? What can I work with? Terror laws being used for 'Soviet-style cover up' in case of ambassador's leak to lover, court told Lord Darroch - Alex Wong/Getty Images Using terror laws to hide evidence relating to claims that Britains ambassador in Washington leaked intelligence to his alleged lover is a Soviet-style cover up, a court has heard. A senior civil servant has told the High Court that counter-terrorism legislation was being weaponised to try to thwart a case he is bringing against the Government. The man was arrested on suspicion of leaking diplomatic cables and had his home raided by counter-terrorism police a day after Lord Darroch was warned that claims he was having an affair with a CNN reporter were about to be published. The civil servant claims his arrest was part of a disinformation campaign to protect Lord Darroch, the former UK ambassador to the US, to maintain diplomatic prestige. Now, the man is suing James Cleverly and Kemi Badenoch, two Cabinet ministers, for misfeasance in public office because they were the nominated head of the two departments he claims were involved at the time. We expect this from totalitarian regimes At a preliminary High Court hearing in London on Wednesday, the civil servant issued a statement criticising an attempt by lawyers for the defendants to use the Justice and Security Act 2013 to restrict his legal team and the presss right to hear evidence regarding sensitive material. A separate hearing is due to decide whether the Act, normally used in terror cases, will be triggered meaning only a special advocate can examine sensitive material. Paul Diamond, reading his clients statement, claimed: The Civil Service is attempting to weaponise counter-terrorism legislation in an effort to block the press and the public from any High Court claim against James Cleverley and Kemi Badenoch. Any corrupt or foolish Tory government minister who signs off an application under the Justice and Security Act to block the press and the public should be ashamed of themselves for such Soviet-style behaviour. We expect this from totalitarian regimes such as Russia, China and North Korea. Its an outrage that it could happen in the UK. In July 2019, Lord Darroch resigned after diplomatic cables were published in a Sunday paper in which the then ambassador described Donald Trump, the then US president, as dysfunctional and clumsy and inept. Civil servant denies leaking cables The Government launched an inquiry into the leak and counter-terrorism police were brought in to hunt down the mole. In October 2020, Lord Darroch was approached by The Sun newspaper about a story it was going to run claiming he was under investigation by US authorities for allegedly leaking sensitive information to Michelle Kosinski, a CNN reporter, he was said to have had an affair with. Michelle Kosinski - Paul Morigi/WireImage Last month, The Telegraph revealed that court papers in this new legal battle show how 14 fully armed officers from counter terrorism command raided the civil servants home, despite him having only recently recovered from cancer surgery. The civil servant, who was never charged, has always denied any involvement in leaking the cables, but instead claims his details were given to police by officials in the Foreign Office and Department for International Trade. Although Lord Darroch has never commented on the claims, Ms Kosinki denied any affair took place or that she received leaked information from the ambassador. Despite the civil servants lawyers attempting to stop the application to use the Justice and Security Act 2013, a hearing and decision will be made at a later date. 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. China to bring outcomes of sci-tech innovation to more countries and people 09:19, May 31, 2023 By He Yin ( People's Daily "Committed to a win-win strategy of opening-up, China is ready to join hands with other countries to promote sci-tech innovation and make science and technologies better serve people of all countries," said Chinese President Xi Jinping in a congratulatory letter to the 2023 Zhongguancun Forum on May 25. A virtual character in the metaverse is exhibited at the 2023 Exhibition of Zhongguancun Forum, May 26, 2023. (People's Daily Online/Chen Xiaogen) Mankind needs international cooperation, openness and sharing more than ever in order to address common development problems, Xi said. His remarks demonstrated the firm determination of China to carry out international cooperation on sci-tech innovation and bring the benefits of sci-tech innovation to more countries and people. The Zhongguancun Forum focuses on hotspot topics in frontier technologies and global development. It is an important platform for international cooperation and exchanges on sci-tech innovation. Over the past decade, the forum has grown into a signature of China's sci-tech exchanges with the rest of the world. This year, the 2023 Zhongguancun Forum attracted guests from more than 80 countries and regions, as well as almost 200 international organizations, institutions and foreign government departments. Nearly 120 top experts in various fields delivered speeches during the forum. Themed "Open Cooperation for a Shared Future," the event further demonstrated China's confidence and sincerity in promoting opening-up and cooperation in science and technology and sharing the outcomes of sci-tech innovation. Over the past 10 years of the new era, China, placing sci-tech innovation at the core of national development, has achieved remarkable accomplishments in sci-tech development and joined the ranks of the world's innovators. The nationwide R&D spending of China rose from 1 trillion yuan ($141.32 billion) in 2012 to 3.09 trillion yuan in 2022, and the country is now home to the largest cohort of R&D personnel in the world. Sci-tech innovation has become an important factor driving the country's high-quality economic development, growth in comprehensive national strength, and improvement in global competitiveness. People visit the 2023 Exhibition of Zhongguancun Forum, May 26, 2023. (People's Daily Online/Chen Xiaogen) Volker Tschapke, honorary president of Germany's Prussian Society, believes that China has made remarkable achievements in science and technology by following an innovation-driven development strategy. He said China has become a forerunner of sci-tech development in many aspects. China is always an advocate, promoter and practitioner of opening-up and cooperation in science and technology. It has established sci-tech cooperation relations with more than 160 countries and regions, and signed 116 inter-governmental agreements on sci-tech cooperation, building a new pattern of opening-up and cooperation in science and technology that is all-round, multi-level, and wide-ranging. China has reaped fruitful results in its practical cooperation with many countries in science and technology-assisted poverty alleviation, science and technology-assisted COVID-19 response, biodiversity, climate change, clean energy and other areas. Offering Chinese plans for global sci-tech development and governance, China has implemented the Belt and Road Science, Technology and Innovation Cooperation Action Plan, launched the BRICS Vaccine R&D Center, promoted the establishment of the South-South Cooperation Center for Technology Transfer, and kicked off a joint demonstration project for the transfer of renewable energy technologies. With China's increasing integration into the global innovation pattern, the country's technological development will surely become a more important engine of global innovation, said Saifur Rahman, President of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. China not only actively joins the global sci-tech innovation network, but also is committed to bringing the outcomes of sci-tech innovation to more countries and people. A woman takes a photo of a humanoid robot at the 2023 Exhibition of Zhongguancun Forum, May 26, 2023. (People's Daily Online/Chen Xiaogen) In the past year since the China-Laos Railway was put into operation, the international line has brought tangible benefits to the people along its route and created vital opportunities for regional connectivity and development. China has trained over 14,000 experts of hybrid rice for some 80 developing countries through various agricultural assistance programs, significantly lifting local grain output. China welcomes all member states of the United Nations to use its space station and has announced nine projects that involve 23 institutions from 17 countries as its first batch of selected projects, making important contributions to humanity's exploration of the space. China actively shares its technological innovation achievements with the world, and strives to contribute Chinese wisdom and technological strength to building a community with a shared future for mankind. China has an incredible mix of expertise and experience, combined with its longstanding commitment to technological innovation, it will be able to make unique contributions by sharing its technologies and experiences, said Bill Gates, co-chair and trustee of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Collaborative, cooperative and open innovation is an unstoppable trend of the global sci-tech development. Scientific and technological advances should benefit all humanity rather than be used to curb and contain other countries' development. A few countries, pursuing sci-tech hegemony and forcing a decoupling, are imposing threats against the security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains. Recently, nearly 100 participants to a plenary meeting of the International Science Council held in Paris said that the global sci-tech community should strengthen cooperation and build consensuses to promote common progress and sustainable development, especially when the world is facing complicated situations. (Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun) Ken Paxton's impeachment revealed how divided far-right and moderate Republicans in Texas have become, political scientist says Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton Outside Supreme Court The Washington Post / Getty Images Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was impeached from office Saturday. Many of the Texas House members who voted to impeach him were Republicans themselves. The vote reveals a more prominent split between the far-right and moderate wings of the GOP. After eight years of surrounding himself in controversy but never getting himself in trouble Ken Paxton, the attorney general of Texas closely linked to the MAGA movement, was swiftly impeached on Saturday. On Wednesday, a Texas House investigative committee revealed it had been looking into Paxton's dealings with political donor Nate Paul stemming from a 2020 whistleblower letter and accused the attorney general of criminal conduct. The next day, the committee investigating him filed 20 articles of impeachment, alleging Paxton had engaged in bribery, obstruction of justice, false statements in official records, and more while in office. By Saturday, Paxton a mainstay in right-wing Texas politics for over two decades was suspended from his post following a historic 121-23 vote to adopt the 20 articles of impeachment. The attorney general's office called the vote an "irresponsible, unfounded, and illegal impeachment," maintaining that all his actions in office were lawful and that he never gave Paul special treatment. For some, the impeachment seemed long overdue. Paxton has been facing a criminal indictment on felony securities fraud charges and multiple investigations since being sworn into the attorney general's office in 2015. 'An embarrassment to the state' Although the timing of Paxton's may take some by surprise, Cal Jillson, a political scientist at Southern Methodist University, told Insider that the Trump-loving attorney general, who moderates might consider "overboard on socially conservative issues" had not been popular among some Republicans for quite some time. All they needed was the perfect opportunity. "They were tolerating him, but also thinking of him as an embarrassment to the state and to the Republican Party in the state... And so I think this was an opportunity to clear this guy off the statewide scene and to limit further embarrassment," Jillson told Insider. The opportunity arose, Jillson said, when Paxton, who owed four former staffers $3.3 million as part of a whistleblower lawsuit after he fired some of them out for speaking out, pled with the Texas House Appropriations subcommittee in February to increase the budget for the attorney general's office to pay off the settlement. Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan, a moderate Republican who later helped impeach Paxton, was vocally opposed, calling it an improper use of taxpayer dollars. The funding request jumpstarted the investigation into Paxton's allegations, a spokesperson told The New York Times. Jillson also noted that the overwhelming majority to impeach Paxton even in a Republican-dominated House, with members who have previously backed him suggested the years of criminal allegations had become a focal point for many members. "That suggests to me that the vote was not really on the debate or on the transcript that the investigations committee provided to members, but it was on what every member has watched over the last eight or nine years regarding Ken Paxton's political and personal behavior," Jillson said. However, he says morality was most likely not at play. For Texas House Republicans, it was more about strategy. "It's not that morality doesn't sometimes rear its head and in politics, but it is rare for it to drive events," Jillson said. "But when events make the moral element of a question unavoidable then there is a rush to declare that you've always felt deeply concerned about behavior like this." GOP moderates and radicals on the national stage Jillson noted that the conflict between more radical elements of the party and moderates in Texas has been evolving over the past decade, ushered in by the Tea Party in 2010. The split is evident, he said, in the way, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, also close to former President Donald Trump, has become "increasingly and visibly dismissive" of Phelan. It's also evident in the disagreements on policy, on everything from property taxes to public funding for private school education, The New York Times noted. This GOP-on-GOP conflict in Texas reflects a national struggle between Republicans that rarely, if ever, plays out the way it did in Texas, Jillson said. Jillson pointed to the multiple disputes between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and the Freedom Caucus a far-right wing in the House on everything from who should be the Speaker to the recent debt ceiling negotiations, where GOP lawmakers accused McCarthy of "emasculating himself" by compromising with President Joe Biden. But unlike Texas Republicans, less far-right GOP members like McCarthy don't have a majority to stand on, as the only nine-seat lead means that to get things done, Republicans have to stick together. "McCarthy is very vulnerable, and so he is even more reluctant than the Texas Republican majority to go out against one of his own members," Jillson said. A Representative for Paxton did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Read the original article on Business Insider Kennewick could get its 1st parking garage. Heres whats being considered Two government agencies are looking at the possibility of the first parking garage in the city of Kennewick. The Port of Kennewick has signed a memorandum of understanding with Kennewick, and the city council is expected to vote on also signing it at an upcoming meeting. The memorandum would authorize studying the feasibility of a parking garage in the Vista Field area and also covers two other projects. They include extending a stub of Grandridge Boulevard in Vista Field, should a proposed residential development move forward there, and improvements at Duffys Pond near Clover Island. The city is being asked to spend up to $20,000 to split the cost of a study on the feasibility of building a parking garage that could serve development of Vista Field, the nearby entertainment district that includes the Toyota Center and the Three Rivers Convention Center, and the nearby complex of Benton County buildings. A sign in Vista Field advertises for the sale of parcels of land in Phase 1 part of the development of the former airport land. The study would provide a high level overview on the need for a parking garage, what size it should be, its possible location and its cost. Then the agencies, likely including Benton County, could consider whether it makes sense to build a parking garage to address parking needs in the area and free up land that would otherwise be needed for parking for future development. The study also could provide some guidance on whether a parking garage is needed in the near future or possibly in five or 10 years, Tim Arntzen, chief executive of the Port of Kennewick, said at a recent Kennewick council workshop. We just want to test the waters, he said. The initial study would not commit either the city or the port to building a parking structure, the memorandum said. The study should be completed by June 2024. People attending the grand opening event for the Vista Field phase one site improvements check out the water features that are centerpiece of the first 20 acres of the west Kennewick project to open for private development. Kennewicks Vista Field The port is negotiating with a developer for a large-scale residential development on part of Vista Field that would require an extension of Grandridge Boulevard in the area. The stub currently ends just past the Crosswind Boulevard intersection. Although the memorandum of agreement described it as a housing development exceeding $10 million, Arntzen told the council the development costs likely would top $30 million. Some 150 to 200 high-end, multifamily rental units are proposed, he said, but gave no further information as no final deal with the developer has been reached. Under the memorandum, the city would contribute half the Grandridge Boulevard extension costs, including architecture and engineering costs, up to $800,000. Extending Grandridge Boulevard at Vista Field is being considered if a deal for a new high end multifamily housing development is reached by the Port of Kennewick. The money would come from the citys Rural County Capital Funds allocation through Benton County from a Washington state sales tax rebate. However, if a deal with the developer is not in place by the end of the year, the city would not be obligated to the project. The Grandridge Boulevard extension also would open an additional 10 acres at Vista Field to development, Arntzen said. Vista Field is a former municipal airport owned by the Port of Kennewick. The port envisions the land being developed into a new town center with businesses, residences, waterways, pathways and a public plaza. Duffys Pond in downtown Under the memorandum, the Port of Kennewick and the city would consult with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to explore options for deepening Duffys Pond, a 10-acre retention basin east of Clover Island Drive south of the Columbia River. The city controls the site under a master lease with the Corps. Duffys Pond in Kennewick is behind the Columbia River levee near Clover Island. The two agencies also would cooperate toward the completion of the Duffys Pond Trail, including design, environmental permitting and construction. The port has been interested for more than a decade in walking paths and a natural preserve for the public at the pond. The ponds water comes from groundwater seepage near the Columbia River and initially the two agencies would collaborate on a plan to treat the Clover Island boat basin and Duffys Pond with algicides to prevent the accumulation of aquatic weeds and algae. The plan would take into account the citys downstream potable water plant intake. Deepening the pond would allow the use of aeration equipment for long-term algae control. The next step would be to complete an application to the Corps and to work closely with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Kids arent always taught AAPI history in schools. These people are trying to change that Jaslene Lai heard a classmate joke about her having the kung flu this school year, when she was under the weather, wearing a mask. These racist jokes persist, two years after Lai and a group of friends were horrified by Covid-era anti-Asian hate, and the lack of Asian American history taught in their classes, prompting them to create a one-day lesson plan on Asian American history that they can teach fellow students. Their group, AAPI Youth Rising, recognized that education is the key to combatting racism. She attributes comments like the ones made by her classmate to ignorance, some of which may result from the lack of such history taught in schools. We kind of just exist, but were not really part of the US or the American story, Lai, 15, said. There has been a shift in recent years. In 2021, Illinois became the first state to require Asian American history to be taught in public schools, followed by New Jersey in 2022. Beginning with the class of 2030, California high school students will be required to take an ethnic studies class to graduate, which includes lessons about various minority groups in the United States. But Lai told CNN that teaching kids some of these stories prior to high school is key to forming more empathy. When were young, were more open-minded, less firmly rooted to our prior beliefs, she said. We can spark more understanding and hopefully a more equitable next generation. In pop culture, more multicultural childrens picture books have popped up on bookstore shelves, and TV shows like American Born Chinese feature strong AAPI characters and Academy Award winners Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan. Ice dancers Alex and Maia Shibutani released a picture book recently, Amazing: Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders Who Inspire Us all. The Shibutanis, siblings and the first ice-dance team of Asian descent to medal at the Olympics, told CNN that childrens nonfiction is one category that could still incorporate more representation and that with AAPI history not being a requirement in every states K-12 curriculum, its still an area with a knowledge gap for many people. That lack of visibility has real world repercussions, the Shibutanis said in a statement. With our collaborators, we are doing what we can through education and storytelling to help create a brighter future for everyone. At a time when requirements to study the histories of some people of color have become a lightning rod in many state legislatures, multiple efforts are under way to introduce Asian American stories including difficult ones to children in an age-appropriate way. Students taking action Around 16% of Californias population is of Asian, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander descent, according to the US Census Bureau, making it one of the states with the highest populations of AAPI residents. Yet Lai does not recall learning about any Asian American experience in any class, until high school. In 2021, she was among a group of friends, including founder and executive director Mina Fedor, 15, who formed AAPI Youth Rising, initially in reaction to the Covid-era anti-Asian hate they saw around them and in the news. They started with a rally in Berkeley, California, then created a pledge asking for at least one day of AAPI history to be taught within the 180 instructional school days. Event organizer Mina Fedor, then 12, speaks to attendees during a rally in solidarity with Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders held in Berkeley, California, on Sunday, March 28, 2021. - Jose Carlos Fajardo/MediaNews Group/East Bay Times/Getty Images Fedor told CNN that they formed a lesson plan with mentorship from several Bay Area teachers and educators, who continued to help review the lesson as it was modified over time. Teach for America helped announce the launch of their lesson plan, and the group now has more than 80 chapter leaders in more than 20 states, who have pledged to teach their One Day of AAPI History lesson in schools. Lai said they chose stories that show how despite our long history of being in America, people are still treated as perpetual foreigners. Lessons include the history of the Chinese Exclusion Act, the annexation of Hawaii, and Japanese incarceration during World War II. Lessons for younger children wont go into graphic detail about brutal violence, but Lai said its still important they understand the racism that existed, causing people in some cases to die. Lai said she understands why some people would worry that teaching ethnic studies might cause impressionable minds to think that an entire race was at fault. But she said communication plays a key role. It is very important to explain that while the White people in this situation they arent the bad guys people who happened to be White took advantage of their power, and this doesnt translate to this generation. However, we must work together to fix these mistakes that happened in the past. Its not anyones fault, but we still have to fix it together, Lai said. Fedor and Lai said the AAPI Youth Rising lesson plan will reach 54,000 school districts and out-of-school sites through a partnership with nonprofit Alliance for a Healthier Generation this year. Through educator toolkits that are distributed to districts, teachers can request a teach-in from AAPI Youth Rising chapter leaders, play the curriculum video, or follow the lesson plan to teach it themselves. Tales of a fourth-grade field trip What is the one thing you can carry in your hand if you were fleeing your country? Monica Pelayo Lock asked a group of fourth graders from Oak Avenue Elementary School in San Jose, California. Lock, the director of education and community engagement at History San Jose, often takes school children through the citys History Park, full of original and reproduction homes, business, and landmarks, complete with running trolleys and an old-fashioned ice cream shop. The park includes several museums featuring the stories of Chinese, Vietnamese, Portuguese and Mexican immigrants to California, offering students as young as fourth grade a chance to learn about the wars, famines, and other factors driving people to emigrate from one place to another. In answer to her question on a recent field trip, the 9- and 10-year-olds spat out answers including an iPhone, money, clothing, food, water. Then, they meandered through the various museums, looking at items like a real Vietnamese immigrants ID from the 1970s and artifacts dug up after an arson of San Joses Chinatown in the late 1800s. Everything I learned just now was new to me, said 10-year-old Noa Kumayama. She told CNN shes Japanese and felt empathy for the way Asian Americans were discriminated against throughout American history. Im thinking, oh, thats never happened to me, thank goodnessbut Im thinking wow, what if that happened to me? a lot of people died, she said. Gerrye Wong, co-founder of the Chinese Historical and Cultural Project, often hosts these students in the Chinese American Museum at the History Park. Wong, who grew up in San Jose in the 1940s, was never taught anything about Chinese immigrants, or their contributions to California agriculture and railroads. I grew up with no knowledge of the discriminating (Exclusion Act) forbidding entry by Chinese sojourners to America. Neither my own children nor my grandchildren learned in their school studies about this history either. So finally, thanks to Gov. Newsoms law on mandating studies in ethnic historythe new generation can grow up, learning about the early struggles and contributions of the Chinese settlers, Wong told CNN. Laura Kliewer, the Oak Avenue fourth graders teacher, said the children made connections between the history learned on this field trip with the struggles of today. Students discussed how migrants are trying to cross the US Southern border today, for some of the same reasons people fled to the United States 150 years ago. Kliewer said the students also learned about the era of the Chinese Exclusion Act when Chinese immigrants were deemed dirty and when asked if that has happened any other time, one of the students responded, Covid-19. San Jose's History Park includes museums featuring the stories of Chinese, Vietnamese, Portuguese and Mexican immigrants to California. - Courtesy Emily Nakajima Kliewer has noticed a shift in her 25 years of teaching, which now includes more non-European perspectives. For example, when learning California history, as is required for all fourth graders in the state, her class has read aloud from a Native Californians experience at a Spanish mission. But teaching nuance to 9- and 10-year-olds is also important to her. I noticed my kids would sometimes be like, Oh, theyre so bad! You know, and they try to label the Spanish as just being terrible. I also try to stop and say wait, wait were all of them bad? Could there have been some bad actors there? But they werent all bad. And so, in any story, youre going to have people that were behaving poorly, and some people who are doing their best, Kliewer said. In other states, parents, lawmakers and other groups have sometimes pushed back against studying ethnic histories, for fear that it would teach students that White people had been exclusively aggressors while others are perpetual victims. But lessons of this field trip did not necessarily cast an entire group as a villain. In fact, Kumayama said when they learned about an arson that destroyed San Joses Chinatown, they also learned that a German man named John Heinlen braved death threats to lease property to the displaced Chinese. Parent Julie Broms, whose 10-year-old son was on the field trip, said what her child is learning is much broader in scope than what she remembers of her own California elementary school education. Broms said their school district has always been open to discussing all topics: The more we can learn, the more informed we are. And so, I really appreciate where we live, and were able to have access to that knowledge. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Do you know an Ivy or Maverick? Idahos most popular, fastest-rising baby names in 2022 Get ready to bump into a lot of Olivers and Olivias in the near future. For the third straight year, those have ranked as the most common boy and girl baby names in Idaho. The pair of names have floated around the top five in their respective gender every year since 2014 but have kept a tight grip on the No. 1 spot since 2020. Data from the Social Security Administration outlines the most popular baby names dating back to 1960, showing the progression from David and Lori in 1960 to Oliver and Olivia over 60 years later. The top five names for baby boys in 2022 were Oliver, Liam, Henry, James and William, which have dominated the top 10 for the best part of the last decade. The same trend can be said for the top five baby girl names. In 2022, Olivia led the way ahead of Charlotte, Hazel, Emma and Evelyn. But a handful of names also jumped significantly in popularity in 2022. Some of the quickly rising boy names include Cooper (No. 20), Walker (No. 27), Wesley (No. 34), Kai (No. 37) and River (No. 59), while the high-risers for girls names include Aurora (No. 16), Sadie (No 23), Charlie, (No. 44), Hadley (No. 45) and Eloise (No. 48). Some other names that have become more popular in Idaho include Maverick (No. 21), which is likely influenced by the 2022 release of Top Gun: Maverick. Ivy (No. 35) has also gained traction over the last decade, perhaps partly due to Beyonce and Jay-Z naming their child Blue Ivy in 2012. The Social Security Administration also notes that while some names may seem more popular than their ranking, different spellings and official birth names are counted differently in their system, such as Zoe and Zoey or Elias and Eli. Looking beyond the Gem State and on a national scale, some of the more unusual names to become popular in 2022 on the boys side are Sincere (No. 544), Justice (No. 764) and Chosen (No. 898), and some of the more popular on the girls side nationwide include Jream (No. 777), Paloma (No. 967) and Princess (No. 970). The Kosovan Olympic Committee (KOC) has called for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and International Tennis Federation (ITF) to take disciplinary action against Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic. On Monday, Djokovic left a political message on a TV camera lens at the French Open in response to violent clashes in Kosovo, writing: Kosovo is the [heart symbol] of Serbia. Stop the violence in Serbian. In a letter written by KOC President Ismet Krasniqi and addressed to the IOC, the KOC said Djokovics message breached the fundamental principle of the IOC charter on the point of political neutrality and involved yet another political statement in sport. CNN has reached out to Djokovics representation for comment. The KOC claimed Djokovic yet again promoted the Serbian nationalists propaganda and used the sport platform to do so, thereby raising the level of tension and violence between the two countries, Kosovo and Serbia. Tensions have been rising in the past week in Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbia in 2008. There were clashes with protestors on Monday after ethnically Albanian mayors took office in northern Kosovo, a majority Kosovo Serb area, following April elections that Kosovo Serbs had boycotted. Djokovic elaborated on his message in Serbian at a press conference this week, saying: This is the least I could have done. I feel the responsibility as a public figure doesnt matter in which field to give support. Especially as a son of a man born in Kosovo, I feel the need to give my support to our people and to the entirety of Serbia. I dont know, and I think many others dont know, what the future brings for Kosovo and for Serbian people, but its necessary to show support and demonstrate unity in these kinds of situations. Djokovic writes a message on a TV camera lens at Roland-Garros. - Jean Catuffe/Getty Images Djokovics reference to the entirety of Serbia reflects the policy of the Serbian government, which still considers Kosovo to be an integral part of its territory and has not recognized the countrys independence. Krasniqi warned that, if no action was taken against Djokovic, it sets a dangerous precedent that sport can be used as a platform for political messages. He added: I respectfully urge that IOC reacts within its framework and requests to the ITF to follow the principles regulated by the Olympic Charter and investigate on this matter by opening a disciplinary proceedings against the athlete. In a statement sent to CNN, an ITF spokesperson said: We have received and acknowledged a letter from the Kosovo Tennis Federation and have forwarded it to the relevant Grand Slam authority. Rules for player conduct at a Grand Slam event are governed by the Grand Slam rulebook, administered by the relevant organiser and regulator. There is no provision in this that prohibits political statements. The IOC told CNN that the French Open is run by the relevant grand slam authority and governed by their rules. Only during the Olympic Games the players are under the authority of the IOC, it said. Djokovic plays in the second round of the French Open against Hungarys Marton Fucsovics on Wednesday. CNNs George Ramsay and Sammy Mncwabe contributed to reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com In Russia believed that Starlink satellites were used to guide the drones Russian propagandists began to spread the delusional theory through their social networks. They claim that a swarm of Starlink satellites belonging to Musks company SpaceX was spotted in the sky over the town of Reutov outside Moscow a few hours before the attack by apparently Ukrainian drones. Bright dots lined up in a single line were last seen in the sky in several regions on May 16-17, the pro-Kremlin Mash Telegram messenger reported. Screenshot t.me/breakingmash A kamikaze drone then fell on the 380th kilometer of the Moscow Big Ring Road near the village of Tarutino. Of course, with more than 3,900 Starlink satellites in orbit and no special equipment needed to see them, the conspiracy theorists could have spotted Musks swarm of Starlink satellites any night during the previous 15 months of war that Moscow wasnt attacked by drones. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine KY man buys $5 lottery ticket while camping and returns to site with bottle of champagne A Lawrenceburg man returned home from a camping trip $75,000 richer after he purchased a $5 Grillin & Chillin scratch-off ticket, according to a Wednesday Kentucky Lottery press release. He purchased the winning ticket at the Valero station in Frankfort with $5 he won from another scratch-off ticket, the lottery said. The whole first row was all doubles, winner Vernon Caldwell told Kentucky Lottery officials. Then the next row, then the next. I thought maybe they were all $1 and $2 wins, but when I saw that first $2,500, I stopped. The odds of winning any Grillin & Chillin prize is 1 in 3.76, according to Kentucky Lottery, with the prizes ranging from $5 to the $75,000 top prize. Caldwell said he couldnt believe he won. We were camping, and I sent my wife a text letting her know, but she was asleep, Calwell said. When I came back to the campsite, I brought a big bottle of champagne with me to celebrate. Even Caldwells wife was unsure. My wife didnt believe it. She just kept saying, Youre lying! Caldwell said. Caldwell brought home $53,625 after taxes on his win. He said he has multiple ideas of what to do with the money, but for now hes going to keep it in the bank. The Frankfort Valero will win $750 for selling the winning ticket. If you or someone you know has a problem with gambling, help is available at 1-800-522-4700. Do you have a question about the lottery in Kentucky for our service journalism team? Wed like to hear from you. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky form or email ask@herald-leader.com. Armie Hammer says his 'name is cleared' after D.A. forgoes charges in sexual assault case L.A. County prosecutors decided Wednesday not to press charges against actor Armie Hammer. (Richard Shotwell / Invision / Associated Press) The Los Angeles County district attorney's office will not press charges against embattled actor Armie Hammer, who was accused in 2021 of raping a woman and coercing others to engage in aggressive sexual activities. In a statement shared with The Times on Wednesday, Tiffiny Blacknell, director of communications for the district attorney's office, said Los Angeles "prosecutors conducted an extremely thorough review, but determined that at this time, there is insufficient evidence to charge Mr. Hammer with a crime." Andrew Brettler, Hammer's legal representative, did not immediately respond to The Times' request for comment Wednesday. The actor, however, returned to Instagram on Wednesday afternoon to celebrate the D.A.'s decision. "I am very grateful to the District Attorney for conducting a thorough investigation and coming to the conclusion that I have stood by this entire time, that no crime was committed," he wrote in a statement. Blacknell told The Times in April that the case brought against the "Call Me by Your Name" star, 36, was "under review." At the time, CNN reported that the Los Angeles Police Department presented a case against Hammer to the D.A.'s office. In January 2021, multiple women shared disturbing allegations against the "Social Network" star, posting online their text-message exchanges with Hammer. In the messages, Hammer allegedly revealed cannibalistic desires and his obsession with aggressive sexual practices. Hammer shot down the "bulls claims" in a statement that same month. Los Angeles police launched an investigation into Hammer in March 2021 after a woman, identified as Effie, accused him of sexual assault. A source close to the investigation told The Times then that the woman who filed the police report was the same woman who alleged she was violently raped by Hammer in 2017. Effie and Hammer allegedly engaged in a four-year on-again, off-again relationship after she met the actor on Facebook at age 20. Through Brettler, Hammer strongly denied Effies claims, maintaining that all of his sexual encounters had been completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance and mutually participatory. Amid the allegations, Hammer was dropped from film, TV and Broadway projects. Agency WME also dropped the actor from its client roster as accusations surfaced. Speaking to Air Mail earlier this year, the actor said, Im here to own my mistakes, take accountability for the fact that I was an a, that I was selfish, that I used people to make me feel better, and when I was done, moved on." He also acknowledged that the power dynamics were off in some relationships because of his age and fame. In Wednesday's statement, Blacknell said prosecutors had "an ethical responsibility to only charge cases that we can prove beyond a reasonable doubt," adding that the D.A.s decision to dismiss the case also stems from the "complexity of the relationship [between Hammer and his accuser] and inability to prove a non-consensual, forcible sexual encounter." Now that Hammer faces no sexual assault charges, he wrote in his caption that he's ready to move "onward and upwards." His Wednesday statement continued: "I look forward to beginning what will be a long, difficult process of putting my life back together now that my name is cleared." Times staff writer Nardine Saad contributed to this report. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. A roaring fire and a lack of water pressure recently made a frightening combination for some Kennewick Irrigation District customers living on the edge of Zintel Canyon. But the intense situation also brought out the best in people who joined together to keep their properties wet during the blaze. Cindy Suryan said her neighborhood could not use irrigation water because it would just trickle out. There was no pressure, she told the Herald. So people shared hoses and used city water to dampen what they could while they watched the fire spread through the canyon. Suryan said someone even got a splitter so several hoses could be hooked up to the house at once. It was terrifying, she said. Evelyn Lusignan, Kennewicks public relations and customer service manager, said that in an emergency using city water is the right thing to do. In the future, though, we hope that wont have to be the case for KID customers living near Zintel Canyon. Clearly, there is work to be done in the aftermath of the recent fire that burned 30 acres, destroyed one home and an outbuilding and scorched another house. Continued monitoring is obviously necessary to make sure the nature preserve doesnt attract illegal campers, and efforts to clean out dead and dry brush and trees must be a priority. Kennewick Fire Department officials already have been making the rounds and encouraging residents in that area not to have plants and trees growing close to their homes. Making sure KID customers have adequate water pressure also should be at the top of the districts list. Fortunately, the blaze did not reach Suryans neighborhood. She lives across the canyon from where most of the damage was done, but the blaze was still frightening. She said that from her home she can see the house that burned, and she worried the wind would shift, sending the flames close to where she lives. Adding to her stress, the KID pump that delivers water to Suryans home had not been working when the fire broke out, though its working now. Matthew Berglund, KID public relations coordinator, said it was an unfortunate set of circumstances. While he didnt have specifics regarding this particular incident, he said KID has 120 pump stations and when one goes out it can take a long while to get parts. It can also take time to get a technician, and sometimes KID officials have to coordinate with other agencies in order to make needed repairs. Berglund said KID is in the process of eliminating the use of small pump stations and will rely only on bigger pump stations. This should lead to less maintenance work in the future. He also noted that KID works with the city to spill more water in Zintel Canyon and raise the water table when necessary. And as it happens, many people living in the Zintel Canyon area are not part of the KID system, anyway. The boundaries were made many years ago and there are pockets all over Kennewick that are not serviced by the KID. Where Suryan lives is within the KID service area, though, so it is regrettable that she and her neighbors who rely on irrigation water werent able to use it when the fire was raging. Zintel Canyon is a natural recreation area that isnt meant to be a manicured park. But even so, it still requires upkeep. Safety concerns were heightened in 2018 when nine separate fires erupted in the canyon between April 3 and Oct. 1 that year. At the time, city officials pledged to clean up the popular walking area. They partnered with volunteers to clear brush and dead trees from the area while still leaving the character of Zintel Canyon intact, and the program went really well until it was paused during the COVID lockdown. Now its time to get a cleanup crew going again. The cause of the recent fire is still unknown. People have speculated that homeless campers in the area started it, but there is no proof of that. Still, a renewed focus on Zintel Canyon is warranted. Kennewick Fire Chief Chad Michael said he plans to get something organized soon, and will be working with other city officials and other agencies to coordinate future volunteer opportunities. The sooner that can happen, the better. No one wants to see a string of Zintel Canyon fires like we did in five years ago. LANSING The Lansing School District hopes to use a nearly $1 million grant to attract and train up to a dozen new educators, officials said Wednesday. The $959,694 grant through a Michigan Department of Education program funded with federal dollars will fund a new Grow Your Own program to fill vacancies that have been occupied by long-term substitute teachers. Most of the money will establish a true pipeline program that Superintendent Ben Shuldiner said will benefit students and teachers. It allows us to help people get certification and helps people who are already in the district become teachers. It helps even folks who are in high school get a trajectory and a pathway to become teachers, he said. Shuldiner, along with Alyssa Stepter McKay, an urban leader fellow for the district, introduced the program Wednesday at a press conference at the Shirley M. Rodgers Administration Building and touted the program as a way to address staffing shortages. We know there is a teacher shortage. We are addressing it. We're doing the best that we can and this grant is going to help us do that, Shuldiner said. The school district will add teaching courses to its Career and Technical Education catalog, which will give students the opportunity to experience the field before entering college and the job market. About $60,000 will go toward helping prospective teachers obtain specific certifications required for some areas of subjects, including special education, art, math and physical education. The district will partner with Central Michigan University to help pay for education credits and classes if participants meet goals for specific certifications. If they complete the program, the individual will be guaranteed a job in the district within their specialty. People are drawn to education because they care deeply about children and they want to serve, and sometimes they just haven't had the opportunity to engage back in school, get more credits and get their certification, Shuldiner said. He said he knows many paraprofessionals who have wanted to become teachers, but lack the resources to complete the necessary degree. Shuldiner hopes this program will help those people. The district is looking for about a dozen candidates to go through the first iteration of the program beginning this fall, but hopes to expand the effort. McKay said the program is a solid way for the district to grow its full-time teacher pool. Students interested in education will be able to enter the profession more easily, eventually continuing the cycle with their future students. With the district having more of a pathway program that's developed from high school, you're able to get the hands on experience, you're able to get mentorship, she said. That'll give them really strong backgrounds and understanding of what it means to be a teacher. Contact Sheldon Krause at skrause@lsj.com. Follow him on Twitter @sheldonjkrause. This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Michigan Department of Education grant to fund teacher training program in Lansing Vulnerable In 2020, when Georgia-native Larissa Miller enrolled in the MFA fibers program at Savannah College of Art and Design, she was ready for big changes. Out of college shed landed a position with a national company designing mattress panels. A few years later in the wake of the George Floyd murder and consequent national social unrest, Miller was compelled to return to school to focus on being a more intentional artist. She especially wanted to home in on issues of representation of Black women in traditional Western art. On June 3, Miller debuts PRESENCE, a thesis collection of 14 fibers-focused works that reimagine inclusive imagery of underrepresented bodies. The exhibition opens at Cedar House Gallery, 122 E. 36 St., and is on display for one night only. Pivotal moment: 'I wanted more control in the kinds of work I was creating.' Miller grew up in a family that fostered creativity. Her mother, especially, was keen on ensuring her daughter had ample opportunity for creative exploration and thinking outside the box. But Miller, who is also practical, studied consumer apparel and retail, the business side of clothing, at University of North Carolina at Greensboro. A semester studying abroad in Manchester, England, helped her land a design position with the Sealy and Serta companies after graduation. Inner Growth I was in charge of making sure designs for mattress panels were pretty and would not break the machines making them, reflected Miller. Id never done anything quite like that, so there was a level of learning on the job. Mostly, I focused on aesthetic of design. Representation: Nancey B. Price is 'making space' with her identity workshop for ARTS Southeast Big Picture: ARTS Southeast's Emily Earl has a vision for Savannah as an arts destination But the longer she stayed in the position, the more she saw a glaring lack of people working there who looked like her. Then, the murder of George Floyd became pivotal. It started to get to me when I realized the environment I was working in wasnt inclusive, emphasized Miller. And as an artist, I wanted more control in the kinds of work I was creating. I wanted to fill in that gap of understanding what it means to make things with my hands and of being more intentional with that making. Miller found herself at a turning point where she was grateful for her employment but increasingly disillusioned with the work and its culture. She very much needed a change. First, she dove headlong into creating her own home decor brand, RissaLaRue Co. Then, she researched graduate programs, with SCAD landing at the top. 'My driver is to create work that Black women find reflection in.' Since living and studying in the Hostess city, Miller has thrived. The art community, especially Sulfur Studios and Savannah Cultural Arts, have embraced her vision and focus. And at SCAD, Miller has met more students who similarly grew up lacking visual representation and who are now using their art to raise the profiles of Black women and people of color in social contexts of pop culture and mass media. In my thesis show, my biggest focus is to create space of representation, said Miller. My driver is to create work that Black women find reflection in. A lot of my work is about having autonomy over storytelling and Black womanhood, to empower people to collectively create space for this truth telling of story. Wovns Tapestry In her tapestry, Foundations, a 50 X 60 jacquard weave thats part self-portrait, natal astrology chart and original song lyrics, Miller explores the esoterics of personal identity. She composed the image digitally and then a small, automated weaving company in San Francisco produced the final work. It is personal, affirmational and hints at divine guidance the power of ones family tree and necessity of ancestral support in navigating time-space of life. Forteza, a 13 X 14 hand-woven piece represents the physical connection, power and efficacy needed to make art. The work depicts the strength card from the tarot deck, an image traditionally created with a European body-type. Miller has re-envisioned the card casting herself as human figure. Inner Child: Jennifer Mack-Watkinss dolls create and hold space I decided it was time to use myself as muse, as reflection, emphasized Miller. The strength card is about being able to persevere through obstacles, to keep going, but also is symbolic of the armor that Black women must put on to move forward in life every day. Im drawing from Greek goddess energy and re-imagining the scene with Black bodies and features in mind. After graduation, Miller plans to stay in Savannah until August when Chicago becomes a possibility. But until then, Miller will keep working, creating and building her home decor linemaking art intentionally. One goal is to continue working and fostering creative spaces that reflect inclusivity. And Im working on wallpaper designs as well as commissioned fine arts pieces, said Miller. Savannah is going to hold on to me just a little longer because I still have things to do here. If You Go >> What: PRESENCE, MFA Thesis show, Larissa Miller Where: Cedar House Gallery, 122 E. 36th St., Savannah When: 5 to 8 p.m., June 3 Cost: Free This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Cedar House Gallery to host final thesis of fibers artist Larissa Miller With more than 36 years in law enforcement, Covingtons top cop announced his last call on duty. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The Covington Police Department shared on Facebook that Chief of Police Stacey Cotton had his last call for his career on Tuesday. Cotton began his journey with the Covington Police Department in Jan. 1987. Since then, he has climbed the ranks from sergeant to lieutenant to assistant police chief, and ultimately chief of police in 1997. TRENDING STORIES: The department said under Cottons leadership, they have remained internationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) since its initial accreditation in 1985. Cotton was awarded Outstanding Chief of the Year by the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police and is currently a life member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, according to the department. In a five-minute video shared on Facebook, the department thanked Cotton for his loyalty and unwavering support throughout the years. He has served the City of Covington with diligence and loyalty for over half of his life. His resolve to keep our community safe drove him to work tirelessly through the most difficult challenges and during great times as well. Regardless of the obstacle or the accolade, his commitment to Covington has been unwavering and consistent, the police department said. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: On Tuesday, New York federal prosecutors indicted a third man in the 2002 shooting death of Run-DMC's DJ Jam Master Jay, seen here in a 1986 photo. (G. Paul Burnett / Associated Press) More than 20 years after the shooting death of hip-hop trailblazer Jam Master Jay, a third man has been indicted in the Run-DMC star's long unsolved case. Federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of New York on Tuesday filed a superseding indictment charging Jay Bryant, 49, of Jamaica, Queens, in the death of Jason Jay Mizell, who was fatally shot in the head at his studio in 2002. Jam Master Jay was 37 when he was pronounced dead at the scene. The new indictment replaces the one initially handed down by a grand jury in 2020, which also named Ronald Washington and Karl Jordan Jr. as suspects in the shooting. According to the superseding indictment obtained Wednesday by The Times, Bryant, who has gone by the aliases Bradshaw Dewitt, Jason Robinson, Morgan Bryant, Deshawn Sadler, Jay Sadler and Big Jay, also was charged with murdering Mizell while engaged in narcotics trafficking. He is already in custody pending trial on unrelated federal drug charges. He is believed to be a flight risk and poses a danger to the community, according to a court memo obtained by The Times calling for a permanent order of detention. The other men Washington and Jordan were indicted in August 2020, which marked the first major development in the cold case. When the grand jury first handed down its indictment, federal prosecutors suggested that Mizell, who was celebrated for his antidrug stance, may have been ambushed over a cocaine deal. Bryant, Washington and Jordan were observed entering the Run-DMC member's recording studio in Queens just before the Oct. 20, 2002, shooting, and a piece of clothing left at the scene contained Bryant's DNA, the detention memo said. "Washington pointed his firearm at one of the individuals located inside the studio and demanded that the person lay on the floor. Jordan approached Mizell, pointed his firearm at him, and fired two shots at close range. One of those shots hit Mizell in the head, killing him. The second shot struck another individual in the leg. All three defendants fled the crime scene," the memo said. Bryant allegedly claimed to an associate that he was the gunman who shot Mizell. However, the memo cast doubt on his claim and said evidence to be presented at a coming trial would show that Jordan fired twice from close range. Bryant's attorney, Cesar de Castro, said that he had just learned of the charges. Securing an indictment in a secret grand jury, applying an extremely low burden of proof, is one thing. Proving it at trial is another matter, he said in an email to the Associated Press. He told NBC News that his client plans to plead not guilty. De Castro did not immediately respond to The Times' request for comment. Bryant, who also faces a firearms charge, is expected to be arraigned later, a spokesperson for the prosecutor's office told NBC News. A spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's office of Eastern New York did not immediately respond Wednesday to The Times' request for comment. When the 2020 indictment was filed, Washington, also known as Tinard, who claimed to be a childhood friend of Jay, was serving a federal prison sentence stemming from a string of robberies he committed while on the run from police after the hip-hop star's death. And Jordan, whose aliases include Little D and Noid, also was charged with engaging in an alleged cocaine distribution conspiracy in 2017. Both pleaded not guilty, NBC said. In April 2022, Jordan's attorney's demanded that the murder charges be thrown out, arguing due process violations because authorities waited nearly two decades before hauling him into court," Billboard reported. The rap pioneers of Run-DMC brought the musical genre into the mainstream in the 1980s with the help of their "Walk This Way" collaboration with the rockers of Aerosmith. Jam Master Jay served as the trio's DJ and provided background music for frontmen Joseph "Rev. Run" Simmons and Darryl "DMC" McDaniels. Run and DMC, who called it quits after Jay's death but have reunited on occasion, marked the 50th anniversary of hip-hop with a star-studded performance at the Grammy Awards in February. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The latest round of Operation Consequences included felony arrests and the seizing of firearms in Hesperia, Victorville, and the Inland Empire. The latest round of Operation Consequences included felony arrests and the seizing of firearms in Hesperia, Victorville, and the Inland Empire. The single week of targeted crime suppression ended Friday and included nearly a half dozen locations: 12200 Block of Palmdale Road, Victorville 16900 Block of C Street, Victorville 13200 Block of Camellia Road, Victorville 17900 Block of Chestnut Street, Hesperia 3300 Block of Del Rey Drive, San Bernardino 10500 Block of Winesap Avenue, Cherry Valley 1900 Block of Third Street, Riverside During the latest operation, investigators from the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department Gangs/Narcotics Division, along with deputies from patrol stations, served 12 search warrants and contacted suspects at various locations. During the service of search warrants and additional contacts, investigators seized 26 firearms, three of which were ghost guns. Deputies also made 13 felony arrests. Operation Consequences will continue throughout the year to conduct targeted crime suppression operations in the High Desert and throughout the county. There are currently 6,721 parolees at large in California and 564 parolees at large in San Bernardino County, according to authorities. This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Latest round of Operation Consequences targets High Desert It is time for new thinking on our homeless epidemic. Every Californian has long witnessed the humanitarian crisis of our present course. But in recent weeks, the situation has hit a tipping point. The departure of Nordstrom, Whole Foods and other retailers from San Francisco may not be the most critical data point on this issue, but we believe these events demonstrate that no one, regardless of socioeconomic status, is immune from the quality of life deterioration that our communities are experiencing due to homelessness. Our once-great cities are being hollowed out. This requires us to move beyond the tired blame game of politics and the same approaches to the problem that have proven to be abject failures. We can do better, and we can learn from what other states could teach us if we are willing to listen. Opinion Several large Democratic states have low homelessness rates, such as New Jersey, Maryland, Michigan and Illinois. We believe there is a reason for this: All these states have much stronger hard drug laws than California. In our opinion, fentanyl, heroin and other hard drug addictions and the associated mental health crises that these drugs sometimes entail are the root cause of Californias homeless crisis. Until we address addiction and mental health, homelessness in our state will only continue to grow. Californias hard drug laws are out of step with progressive states that have lower rates of homelessness. In California, there is essentially no consequence for hard drug possession. Therefore, law enforcement rarely arrests for the crime. In New Jersey, hard drug possession can lead to a three-to-five-year sentence and substantial fines. According to USA Facts, a nonpartisan nonprofit funded by billionaire Steve Ballmer, the homeless population per 10,000 people in New Jersey is 9.45 compared to 43.95 in California. The USA Facts study is based on 2022 Department of Housing and Urban Development data, and it showed that New Jersey, Maryland, Michigan and Illinois all had much lower homeless rates than in California. In Maryland, multiple cases of hard drug possession can result in an 18-24 month sentence and substantial fines, while Maryland has only 8.68 homeless people per 10,000 residents. In Michigan, hard drug possession can result in a four-year sentence and substantial fines, and Michigans homeless rate is 8.18 per 10,000 residents. And in Illinois, possession of fentanyl can result in a three-to-seven-year sentence and substantial fines. They also have one of the lowest homeless rates in the country a rate of 7.32 homeless people per 10,000 residents. We think California can end our homeless crisis in one year with a new approach that takes a modest step in the direction of these other progressive states. First, after two hard drug convictions, prosecutors would have the discretion to charge the third hard drug possession as a new class of crime called a treatment-mandated felony. The judge would have the final say on whether the defendant should be charged in this manner. The factors that the prosecutor and judge would consider in the decision would include the defendants prior history, the number of drugs in the defendants possession, the defendants amenability to drug treatment and other offenses, such as illegal weapons possession. If the defendant is charged with this new, treatment mandated felony, an addiction specialist would be assigned to provide a complete suite of services to the defendant including shelter, drug and mental health treatment (outpatient whenever possible), and job training. Drug treatment in the criminal justice system works. If the defendant successfully completes drug and mental health treatment, they would receive full expungement of the drug charge. If the defendant refuses drug treatment, the individual could receive up to 18 months of time served in county jail. The defendant can alter this sentence at any time by choosing the treatment path instead. If the defendant is re-arrested for hard drug possession, they would be eligible for a complete do-over of the treatment path for as many times as it takes until they get better. The goal of this proposal is to treat drug addiction and mental health as the humanitarian crises that they are to get people the help they need not to punish them, and to simultaneously reclaim the safety of our communities. But under the current legal framework, there is no accountability in the law when people refuse to get help. New Jersey, Maryland, Michigan and Illinois understand this. Thats why they created stronger hard drug laws and it has worked. The result has been exponentially lower homelessness in these states than in California. And despite these stronger drug laws, three out of four of these states have lower incarceration rates than California. This proposal would modestly move California in the direction of progressive states that have shown us the way on homelessness. With this new approach, drug addiction and mental health would be treated, and we would rapidly get people off the streets, into shelter and into the care they need. We can end our homeless crisis in one year. Lets start today. Jim Cooper is the Sheriff of Sacramento County and Jeff Reisig is the District Attorney of Yolo County. A leak in our bathroom caused toxic mold, and no amount of renovation could fix it. Eventually we had to move. Getty Images After a night of heavy rain, we noticed mold in our bathroom. We spent months trying to fix the problem, but it wouldn't go away and took a toll on my family. Eventually, we sold our house for the price of the lot and moved to a drier climate. By the look of our home and the way we went about our daily routine, you'd never think we'd develop mold. Our suburban ranch house was clean, well-maintained, and uncluttered, with stain-free walls and ceilings. We dried the floor after supervising enthusiastic toddler baths and replaced the dishwasher after one leak. But in our case, regular maintenance didn't prevent toxic mold. Two decades ago, heavy rains created a small, one-cup leak on our bathroom floor. A strong odor, similar to that of wet socks, radiated from the shower wall within days. My husband discovered black mold after he removed the baseboards and part of the wall. He cleaned and discarded the moldy debris, but within a week we couldn't breathe well enough to sleep in our bedroom. Dealing with the mold I expected the odor to disappear once my husband removed the entire shower, but it got worse. Unfortunately, thick plastic sheeting covering the bedroom hallway didn't deter the progression of the horrific stench from the primary bath throughout the house. The air was densely packed with suspended particles that glistened in the sunlight, but no visible mold growth remained. Ozone treatments, additional cleaning, and opening windows and doors didn't remove the smell or the thick, offensive air. It was so strong that the entire living quarters were affected, making it hard to breathe. Our family of five carried our mattresses out to the living room. We were lucky our insurance covered mold testing and remediation. One month after the leak, our insurance company ordered our evacuation because professional test results revealed high levels of toxic molds, including Stachybotrys, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Chaetomium, Cladosporium, and more. Our home was deemed unsafe for human habitation. We moved to a bed-and-breakfast and began vetting remediation firms, hopeful we'd return to a clean home in a few months. Eight months later, we moved to two travel trailers parked in the yard. We gave up when five professional remediations over 22 months were not enough to rid our home of mold. We disclosed our mold test results and sold the house for the value of the lot, then left for a drier climate. Thankfully, we've remained mold-free ever since. Toxic-mold remediation is difficult, and sometimes several professional remediations aren't enough. In our case, mold remained even after gutting much of the house, including three bathrooms, the kitchen, and the utility room. Some people (including celebrities like Sandra Bullock, Muhammad Ali, Ed McMahon, Michael Jordan, and Suzanne Somers) address mold by moving and filing lawsuits, whereas other people feel they have no choice but to burn their homes. We learned firsthand the damage toxic mold can do Mold exposure can cause a host of symptoms, including sneezing, coughing, postnasal drip, red eyes, body aches and pains, memory loss, and in severe cases, shortness of breath and fever. In our case, mold made it hard for us to process information neither my husband nor I could concentrate in our house. My husband couldn't count to 10 without forgetting what number he was on. Thankfully, our mental ability returned when away from the house, but the experience was frightening and we were concerned about the long-term effects for us and our children. Our good health prior to the mold didn't protect us from mycotoxins, which has been the case for other families. "While most molds cause normal allergic reactions, the dozen or so toxic molds can make otherwise healthy people very sick," said Dr. William Weirs, a functional medicine specialist who practices at the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine in North Charleston, South Carolina. When we voiced fears about our children's brain health to their pediatrician in 2002, we were told not to worry and that "mold is everywhere." Weirs said the "majority of doctors aren't trained to look for the toxic effects of mold." It's still difficult to get treatment for mold-related symptoms and illnesses, even though mold has been tied to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, chronic fatigue, and neurological symptoms including memory loss, brain fog, vertigo, and balance issues. The good news is that once patients remediate the mold or leave the location, "with proper treatment, victims can recover from mold illness," Weirs said. He said he's seen "more mainstream recognition of mold illness over the last four years, with more physicians referring patients to him for treatment." While our mold situation was extreme, we are far from the only ones who've struggled with toxic mold. Tens of thousands of people who've experienced mold exposure and its devastating effects have joined Facebook groups for support and advice on rediscovering health and wellness, tips for remediating their homes and cleaning possessions, and more. Read the original article on Insider We should have listened to you regarding Russia Macron addresses Eastern Europe French President Emmanuel Macron admitted that his country should have paid more attention to Eastern European countries that warned of the threat from the Russian Federation. Source: Macron during a speech at the GLOBSEC forum in Bratislava, reports European Pravda, referring to Reuters Details: Macron stressed that there should be no division between "Old Europe" and "New Europe", referring to the long-standing disagreements between the EU's eastern and western members, particularly over the Russian issue. "Some said you had missed an opportunity to shut up. I think we also lost an opportunity to listen to you. This time is over," Macron said. He was alluding to former French President Jacques Chirac's statement in 2003 that Eastern European states that supported the United States and Britain in their decision to invade Iraq had missed a "good opportunity to shut up". The French President stressed that Russia had suffered obvious failures in the war against Ukraine. "War is far from over but one thing is clear: Ukraine won't be conquered. We can see that what was supposed to be a 'special operation' is already a geopolitical failure," Macron said. Background: Earlier, Macron stated the need to provide Ukraine with "tangible and reliable security guarantees". He also stressed that the West should do everything possible to help Ukraine conduct an effective counteroffensive since it "gives a chance to establish a lasting peace". Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! The mayor of Washington Park learned over a year ago the village was awarded a $600,000 state grant to help replace the municipal building that burned down, but state officials have declined to say why the funds have not yet been delivered. The municipal building, which housed the villages police, fire and public works departments on Forest Avenue, was destroyed in a fire in October 2021. The fire also destroyed records and equipment. A metro-east lawmaker has criticized the state for a lack of clarity in explaining why the village is still waiting for a check. Part of the problem we are facing in this situation is the lack of a definitive answer, state Rep. Kevin Schmidt, R-Millstadt, said in a statement about the status of the grant. The lack of clarity continues to be a source of frustration throughout this entire process. My goal from the very beginning has been to get the money promised to Washington Park secured. At every turn I have encountered more problems and more non-answers to my questions but I remain hopeful we can get the grant money to Washington Park and the community can start to rebuild their municipal building. Schmidt, who defeated former state Rep. LaToya Greenwood, D-East St. Louis, in November, represents District 114, which includes part of Washington Park. State Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, represents District 113, which also includes part of Washington Park. Hoffman could not be reached for comment about the Washington Park Grant despite the multiple messages that were left with his office by the BND. Washington Park grant A $600,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity was included in the state budget signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker in April 2022. Washington Park Mayor Leonard Moore declined to comment on the status of the villages grant application. In early 2022 before the budget was approved, he urged state officials to help the village. A spokesman for Pritzker referred questions about the grant to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity declined to release details about why the grant has not been given to Washington Park but said the agency is working with Washington Park officials on the grant. Washington Park Mayor Leonard Moore When the Belleville News-Democrat asked agency spokeswoman Eliza Glezer for information about the grant, she sent this statement: One of DCEOs highest priorities is to support communities across the state through grant programs and other resources. The grant funding for Washington Park has been ready and available, and DCEO will continue to coordinate with and support the Village as they work to submit the required grant application materials in order to receive the funding. Pressed for more information about the required grant application materials and a time frame for when the grant would be processed, Glezer sent another statement: DCEO continues to work closely with the Washington Park community on their grant materials and as a matter of process, while the application remains ongoing the department does not have additional information to share at this time. Bill would help cities with records destroyed in fire Schmidt said he is concerned about the public safety of Washington Park residents since the burned building housed police and firefighter equipment. Village officials have previously said the fire department was leaving vehicles with a local trucking contractor and the police department had been meeting at the Washington Park Senior Citizens Hall. But as part of his effort to help Washington Park, Schmidt said he introduced a bill that would allow officials from Illinois cities and towns to go before an unpaid review panel of five auditors if they had been rejected for a state grant because municipal financial records had been destroyed in a disaster or by the misconduct of an employee. If a majority of the board approved a citys appeal, the grant would be approved. State records show the proposal, known as House Bill 2341, was filed by Schmidt on Feb. 14 and passed the State Government Administration Committee by a 9-0 vote on March 22. It was later referred to the Rules Committee. Since the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has not said what type of information the agency still needs from Washington Park and the application process is still continuing, it was not immediately clear if Schmidts bill could directly help Washington Park in the application for the $600,000 grant. Schmidt, a Republican, said the bill has bipartisan support but he has not received an explanation from House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch, a Democrat, as to why the bill was not called for a vote before the entire House. Welch could not be reached for comment after multiple messages were left with his office by the BND. The bill has 49 co-sponsors, with 26 Republicans and 23 Democrats. Hoffman is not one of the co-sponsors. BND reporter Carolyn P. Smith contributed information for this article. After SouthPark fire, could stronger construction protections be on the way? Local and state fire safety officials are discussing implementing more fire-prevention requirements at large wooden-building construction sites after this months massive, deadly blaze in Charlotte. The five-alarm fire killed two construction workers and sparked spot fires on nearby structures. Firefighters and a crane operator battled to save lives as flames swept the site, where 15 workers were rescued, city officials said. A day after the fire released smoke visible for miles, Mecklenburg County Fire Marshal Ted Panagiotopoulos sent an email to North Carolina Chief Fire Code Consultant Charlie Johnson, saying that there may be an opportunity to discuss updates to the states fire code. He pointed to 2022 standards from the National Fire Protection Association that give input on how to safeguard construction operations at tall, wooden structures, and large, wood-frame structures. The 2022 edition of NFPA 241, which would be new to state code, includes a chapter on Safeguarding Construction Operations for Large Wood Structures. Before construction starts, a study should ensure that passive and active fire protection features get installed, along with separations between other nearby buildings also under construction, it states. Also to be studied: how people can safely exit the sites. I would very much like to be included in these conversations, Panagiotopoulos said in the email to Johnson, noting that Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement Director Patrick Granson recommended that he reach out. Tall, wooden buildings a challenge Through a county spokesperson, Mecklenburg County Director of Land Use and Environmental Services Agency Ebenezer Gujjarlapudi said that NFPA 241 provides measures for preventing or minimizing fire damage to structures undergoing construction. Reuben Holmes and his mother, Willie Mae Holmes, are shown in a 2007 family wedding. Reuben Holmes died this month in Charlotte in a construction fire in SouthPark. As part of normal conversation between fire professionals in the aftermath of such incidents, they were discussing if there were any potential opportunities for changes / revisions / inclusions to the existing code that may be helpful in prevention or mitigation of such fire incidents when the next code revision cycle commences, he said. The 2022 standards are written around understanding that there are all these hazards at construction sites, NFPA Principal Engineer Jonathan Hart told The Charlotte Observer. Its a document that really says you need to have a plan because its unique for every individual site, Hart said. Someone has to be responsible for a fire prevention program on a construction site. The under-construction property at 7741 Liberty Row Drive was podium or pedestal construction, meaning that the bottom story was made of noncombustible material like concrete or steel. Upper floors were wooden. Podium-style structures, like the one that ignited in SouthPark on May 18, are increasingly common in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina and the United States. County spokesperson Pamela Escobar recently gave a very rough estimate that there were about a dozen podium-style apartment buildings under construction in Mecklenburg County. Its a challenge, Charlotte Fire Department Deputy Chief of Personnel Administration Peter Skeris said about such buildings during an emotional press conference last week. We all understand the density and why they build the way they do. Some of the building codes are not friendly to what we do as a profession. Once wood starts to go, collapse is imminent, he said. The more wood on a project, the harder it is for firefighters to put flames out because wood fuels fire, Glenn Corbett, an associate professor of fire science at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York, previously told The Charlotte Observer. The situation is made worse when a building is under construction because the unsealed structure essentially creates a wind tunnel, he said. Mill Creek Residential was building a 239-unit apartment building in SouthPark when a massive fire broke out last week. One fire science expert has raised concerns over the wood-frame construction type thats become more common over the past decade. Exactly what sparked the Charlotte fire is not clear. Fire officials have said it was sparked near a trailer containing spray foam insulation. A similar 2017 fire in Raleigh destroyed The Metropolitan, an apartment complex under construction. Hundreds of people had to be evacuated from restaurants, apartments and condos. The cause of that fire was not determined. Tuning into the construction phase Building codes are typically designed to ensure that a building is safe once its up, but NFPA 241 addresses construction safety concerns, Hart said. Thats really an entire standard dedicated to how... we protect the site, how to protect the workers and how to protect the first responders who would be responding to an incident on a site like this, Hart said of the SouthPark fire. For an updated version of NFPA 241 to be implemented, it would likely have to go through a number of committees and councils, Johnson told The Charlotte Observer. Those would include the N.C. Fire Code Revision Committee which Charlotte Fire Department Senior Inspector Colin Triming chairs as well as the states Building Code Council and the International Code Council, Johnson said. In 2014 the states Building Code Council elected to move to six-year code cycles, a change from the prior three-year code cycles. Any approved changes will likely not go into effect until January 2025, Johnson said. But there is an often-necessary process by which changes can be introduced sooner, Johnson said. Charlotte Fire Captain Jeff Bright of Station 10 discusses the stations firefighters role in battling the 5-alarm fire on Liberty Row Rd. on Thursday, May 18, 2023. Representatives Firehouse 16 joined Station 10 in detailing their roles in battling the fire on Thursday, May 25, 2023. The North Carolina Fire Marshals Office hopes the Fire Code Revision Committee will consider the last edition of NFPA 241, Chief State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor wrote in an email to The Charlotte Observer. It would have to be a revision only and not printed in the code. The next code is complete and ready for print, Taylor said. Whatever conclusions the Charlotte Fire Department reaches in its investigation will be crucial to any changes, Taylor emphasized in an interview. Were on heightened awareness of these, and especially when theyre in the most populated areas, because generally you will not see these in rural areas, Taylor said. Youll see them in downtown Raleigh, downtown Charlotte. The way we look at it nationwide is that its on our radar. The N.C. Fire Code Revision Committee is scheduled to meet on June 6 at the Greensboro Fire Prevention Office, according to the email exchange between Panagiotopoulos and Johnson. We do hope that the latest updates will be considered, Taylor told The Charlotte Observer in an email. Despite multiple calls and emails from The Observer, Charlotte Fire Department investigators and local members of the N.C. Building Code Council did not respond to questions about possible code updates. Data reporter Gavin Off and planning and enterprise editor Jodie Valade contributed to this report. Last month, we learned that top-secret military documents, which provided insight into Russian moves within Ukraine, were leaked on the internet straining relationships with American allies and compromising our intelligence collection assets. The culprit was not a foreign spy or ideology-driven digital warrior. It was a socially awkward airman first class in the Air National Guard with low self-esteem, attempting to show off for a group of teenage gamers on a chat platform. The breach calls into question the standards the national security community applies in determining who gets top secret clearance. We must move beyond the current vice-based criteria that look for people who are vulnerable to blackmail, have a connection to bad actors, or have highly recognizable psychological issues. Loneliness, low self-esteem, and narcissism must be added to the list of red flags to look for. This month, the surgeon general of the United States announced an epidemic of loneliness and isolation affecting the country, and he laid out a framework for a National Strategy to Advance Social Connection, as part of a plan to mend the social fabric of our nation. While the full impact of the mental health issues associated with pandemic isolation will not be fully understood for some time, a survey published by the National Institute of Mental Health identified that the prevalence rate for mental health illness which includes mental, behavioral or emotional disorders was highest among 18-25 year-olds. Moreover, in the Air National Guard, where Jack Teixeira served, directors of psychological health across 90 wings reported 109,000 in-person encounters with service members and their families. These revelations present us with several challenges, chief among them, calling into question how security clearances are vetted. According to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, which determines the eligibility for access to classified information, a security clearance investigation is an inquiry into an individuals loyalty, character, trustworthiness and reliability to ensure that he or she is eligible for access to national security information. Mental health issues raise concerns about eligibility because they may cause poor judgment or unreliable, untrustworthy, or dysfunctional behavior. Mental health will influence how a person perceives the world and makes their decisions. Because of this, there are lists of disqualifying conditions, indicators, and behaviors used to determine suitability for a security clearance. Absent from these lists are loneliness, poor self-esteem, and social anxiety, narcissism which are the traits exhibited by Teixeira as well as most mass shooters. Clearly, there were red flags overlooked or missed by those who approved Jack Teixeiras top-secret clearance, and it appears that a number of oversight responsibilities failed. The current FBI and DoD investigations will sort this out, this disgraced airman likely will go to jail for a long time and a number of people should and will lose their jobs. Moving forward, however, there must be a comprehensive review of our current security vetting and monitoring. We must move past the legacy perception of people who represent a security risk, and develop new screening criteria that quickly identifies people who exhibit loneliness, poor self-esteem and grandiose narcissism (as displayed by Teixeira), remove them from access to classified information, and provide them with the support and tools to address these issues before they become toxic and make bad decisions. Jack Hammond is a retired U.S. Army Brigadier General with multiple combat commands, and he currently serves as the chief executive for the Home Base National Center of Excellence for Mental Health and Brain Injuries. Have an opinion? This article is an Op-Ed and as such, the opinions expressed are those of the author. If you would like to respond, or have an editorial of your own you would like to submit, please email us. Want more perspectives like this sent straight to you? Subscribe to get our Commentary & Opinion newsletter once a week. A lifelong athlete and longtime Ironman competitor has died after he was hurt during a race in Tennessee, his family said. Marshall Martin, 58, was competing in the Ironman 70.3 Chattanooga on May 21 when he crashed during the biking portion of the race, Ironman confirmed. The Ironman 70.3, a half distance of the famous triathlon, also includes running and swimming. During the bike portion of the event in Walker County, the athlete required and was provided immediate medical care from local authorities and emergency services working the event before being transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment, a spokesperson for Ironman told McClatchy News in an email. The crash occurred near Highway 193 and Georgia Highway 2, WTVC reported. Martin suffered brain bleeds, a broken collarbone and eight broken ribs from the crash, according to a Caring Bridge page created by his family. His family said he underwent an emergency craniotomy to try and stop the swelling in his brain and was placed on a ventilator. Marshall has been an avid triathlete for 30+ years and lives his life through moving and empowering others to do the same, his family wrote on Caring Bridge. Marshall is a loving husband, father, brother, friend, teammate and leader. Martin, a North Georgia native, was excited to come up to Chattanooga to compete, his friend said. Martin passed away from his injuries on Memorial Day, his family announced. Marshall has finished his last race and crossed that final Ironman finish line. He received his final finisher medal with his entrance into Heaven, his family said in a May 29 Facebook post. This was his best race by far and he definitely saved the best for last! Martin was always excited to come back to Chattanooga to see old friends and race together, Martins high school friend Ryan Shrum told WTVC. You know, the bike course actually went really close to the neighborhood he grew up in, in North Georgia, Shrum told WTVC. Marshall, left, was a lifelong triathlete, and would compete with his older brother Chig, right. Martins brother, Chig, shared photos on Facebook of his little brother on May 29, encouraging others to take advantage of the time you have with loved ones. Love to you all, dont put things off you have wanted to do, make those changes, buy that car, go on that trip, life is short, he wrote. (Marshall) went out doing what he loved to do, he was (a) lucky man for that. Give somebody a hug today and tell them you love them! Beloved Watermelon Man shot during robbery dies weeks later, Tennessee family says 6-year-old dies days after car hits ATV he was riding with friend, Mississippi cops say Missing teen with autism found dead after vanishing from summer camp, Georgia cops say Family outing turns tragic when boat flips on creek, killing mom, Alaska troopers say FIRST ON FOX: A Los Angeles man who received no jail time and mental health diversion for a 2021 stabbing that nearly killed a construction worker is now charged with the murder of his neighbor. Stefen Sutherland, 31, was charged with assault with a deadly weapon in November 2020 after slashing a construction worker's neck because he was making noise, according to law enforcement sources. A Los Angeles probation official warned that there was a risk of further violence and asked a judge to put him in prison. But District Attorney George Gascon's office sought mental health diversion instead for the crime, which critics say was under-charged to begin with as an assault rather than attempted murder. On May 23, Sutherland allegedly shot Jennifer Gomez 19 times in her home. The two had previously clashed over noise complaints, according to sources close to the investigation. INNOCENT LA FATHER KILLED AFTER DA GASCON GIVES VIOLENT CAREER CRIMINAL MULTIPLE DIVERSIONS Stefen Sutherland avoided jail after a November 2020 stabbing in favor of mental health diversion. Last week, he allegedly shot his neighbor in her home. In a statement, Gascon's office defended the suspect's slap on the wrist after the stabbing. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP "The defendant in this case met the specific eligibility criteria for mental health diversion," a spokesman for Gascon said in a statement. "A court-appointed psychologist deemed him suitable for the treatment program, and our deputy district attorney agreed to the defense request for mental health diversion. "The court approved the treatment plan and deemed the defendant safe for community treatment. The defendant participated for nearly two years in [the] treatment program without issue. We are saddened by the most recent allegations, and our hearts go out to the victim and those who loved them." Gomez's parents set up a GoFundMe to help with her funeral expenses but have raised just over $300. DRUNK EX-CON KILLS 54-YEAR-OLD NEW YORK MAN IN ROAD RAGE ATTACK: COPS Sutherland could have faced an attempted murder charge, according to deputy district attorneys from within Gascon's office. "One of the things Gascon does is manipulate things with the charging," said John Lewin, the prosecutor who put real estate heir turned murderer Robert Durst behind bars. "You make it a discount with assault with a deadly weapon, and you give him mental health diversion. It doesnt look as bad as attempted murder." District Attorney George Gascon speaks about the Monterey Park mass shooting during a news conference outside the Hall of Justice in Los Angeles Monday, Jan 23, 2023. But it's not just Gascon, according to Eric Siddall, vice president of the Los Angeles County Association of Deputy District Attorneys. It stems from a long history of failures by state and local elected officials, he said. "By all estimation, this person actually did have a serious mental health condition, but you just can't put someone who stabbed someone back on the street," he told Fox News Digital. "That's not a solution. It's irresponsible." CALIFORNIA MURDER VICTIM'S FAMILY APPALLED BY GASCON PUSH TO DROP KILLER'S DEATH SENTENCE To that end, a decade-old jail construction proposal would have created 3,000 beds for violent mental health patients that would allow them to be placed in diversion programs without being free to harm the public, he said. The proposed facility would have been completed by April. It was the solution to replace an aging county jail concocted by a bipartisan commission. However, the plan was ultimately "torpedoed" by the county board of supervisors, the old jail was torn down and the county declined to build anything new. "You can't really blame it all on Gascon," Siddall said. "The state government created a law that basically makes it impossible to stop someone from getting diversion, the state and county have failed to invest in any kind of facility for the mentally ill and prosecutors like Gascon all three of those create a disaster where people get killed." Gomez's slaying comes weeks after another diversion recipient was accused of murder. Jade Simone Brookfield, 23, was arrested in April and charged with murder in the stabbing death of 40-year-old Dennis Banner during an argument in a street. CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP Brookfield's criminal history included multiple prior assault charges, including stabbing a woman in the chest in 2020. Like Sutherland, she received mental health diversion as punishment before being accused of killing someone. Sutherland is due back on court June 12. He was being held on $2 million bail. Excavating a fortress in Georgia, archaeologists uncovered several hundred coins. They were small, tarnished discs that might have been easily overlooked amid the much more extravagant and well-preserved ruins. Taking a closer look, archaeologists noticed something on the coins some added stamps, Science in Poland said in a May 31 news release. The stamps, often called countermarks, were added to the coins after their original designs had worn away, archaeologist and numismatist Piotr Jaworski said in the release. Photos show the markings include four raised bumps and leave an X-shaped negative space. These particular coins were stamped by one of ancient Romes infamously brutal military troops: the Legio X Fretensis, Jaworski said. A coin from Syrian Antioch with the stamp of the Legio X Fretensis. The battles of the Legio X Fretensis have been relatively well documented beginning around 48 B.C. and continuing until 230 A.D., according to the World History Encyclopedia. The legionary troop was renowned for its tenacity and loyalty to the emperor, the outlet reported. The legion fought everywhere from modern-day France to North Macedonia and Armenia to Syria. The Legio X Fretensis gained its notorious reputation for its bloody suppression of Jewish uprisings in Jerusalem, the release said. During the siege of Jerusalem, the Legio X Fretensis, along with other military troops, attacked the city for four months, according to the Wold History Encyclopedia. The siege killed 1 million people, and 70,000 more were taken prisoner. The legion stayed behind, building a base on the burnt ruins of Jerusalem. Archaeologists had not found evidence of the legion in Georgia until now, experts said. A Jewish coin from 69 A.D. that was looted, then stamped by Legio X Fretensis. The lost coins were marked by the Legio X Fretensis and brought to the Gonio Apsaros fortress during the winter of 114 A.D., Jaworski said. The soldiers used the coins to buy necessities during their winter stay, leaving hundreds of coins in circulation when they left. The legion stayed at the Gonio Apsaros fortress during a critical time for the empire, Jaworski said. The military would leave Georgia and conquer two more provinces, Mesopotamia and Armenia, bringing the empire to its geographical peak. The Gonio Apsaros fortress is in the southern Georgian city of Gonio. The fortress sits near the coast of the Black Sea and the modern-day border of Georgia and Turkey. The fortress was built around the first century A.D. along the remote northeastern edge of the ancient Roman empire as a strategic defense point, the release said. Most of the remaining ruins date to the fortress later occupation, a period around the sixth century. The ruins are one literal example of a common Georgian saying. The saying, according to Carnegie Europe, is translated as, The Roman Empire is extinct but Georgia still exists. Construction workers spot toolmarks on stones and uncover ancient site in Malta Ancient European burials show complex gender expression existed in past, study says Teen metal detectorist scouring field with mom finds Viking-era artifact, photos show A Louisiana lawmaker who says the state has become overrun with alligators wants to explore expanding the hunting limits and season. "We're being overrun by alligators," said Democratic Plaquemine Rep. Chad Brown. "Two Sundays ago my neighbor called and told me to be careful because there's an alligator under your wife's car." Brown's House Concurrent Resolution 132 asks the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to seek ways to limit alligators' intrusion into human populated areas. "They're coming up channels and sloughs and creeks and into towns," said Republican Jennings Rep. Troy Jennings. Republican Ville Platte Rep. Rhonda Butler said she's spotted gators larger than her kayak while on the water. Louisiana's alligator population has exploded over the past 50 years from fewer than 100,000 to more than 3 million today. Of those, about 2 million are wild with another 1 million farmed. That's nearly three times the population of Florida, the state with the second most number of alligators. This large Louisiana alligator sunning on a fallen cypress tree in Lake Martin near Breaux Bridge on Nov. 11, 2022. And they are all over the state from Lake Martin in Breaux Bridge to Caddo and Cross lakes in Shreveport to Caldwell Parish in northeastern Louisiana. What snakes in Louisiana are venomous? Alligator sighting temporarily closes Bossier City park "They're everywhere," said Republican Columbia Rep. Neil Riser. "I think we're going to have to get to the point to (expand hunting)." "We know duck hunters who now won't bring their retrievers to the blind with them in some duck holes because of alligators," said Brown, who noted that alligators aren't just a threat to humans but to commercial fishing and crawfishing operations. "We're trying to get an awareness that we have too many alligators," Brown said. Brown's resolution cleared the House Natural Resources Committee without objection. More: Louisiana is overrun with menacing wild hogs, but bounty for pig tails isn't answer Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1. This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: As Louisiana alligator population explodes, lawmaker wants more hunting (Bloomberg) -- President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silvas support of his Venezuelan counterpart cast a shadow over Tuesdays summit of South American leaders, where the Brazilian leader sought to promote regional economic integration. Most Read from Bloomberg Lula on Monday defended Nicolas Maduro during the Venezuelan leaders first visit to Brazil since 2015, saying that a narrative of anti-democracy and authoritarianism had been created to attack him. The comments drew public rebukes from Chiles Gabriel Boric and Uruguays Luis Lacalle Pou on Tuesday, and put Lula on the defensive during a news conference at the end of the summit. Behind closed doors, the remarks shifted the meetings focus to human rights and pushed economic integration and other issues Lula sought to prioritize to the background, according to two people familiar with the discussions who requested anonymity to speak about them. As a result, the meeting made little progress on any substantive issues, the people said. If there are so many groups in the world that are trying to mediate so that theres full democracy in Venezuela, that human rights are respected and there arent any political prisoners, the worst thing that we could do is bury our head in the sand, Lacalle Pou told reporters. The summit brought 11 South American presidents and the head of Perus council of ministers to Brasilia for the largest major gathering of the continents leaders since the collapse of the leftist union of South American countries known as Unasur nearly a decade ago. Read More: Lulas Summit Gathers Struggling South American Leaders Lula convened the group to seek common ground on areas including health care, infrastructure and the environment, the Brazilian government said before it began. We are now taking the first steps to resume dialogue in the region, Lula said at the start of the event. The context we face today is even more challenging than it was in the past. A litany of domestic problems plaguing the region, including widespread political turbulence and sluggish economies, threatened to leave plans for improved relations dead on arrival. Deep ideological differences among the continents leaders posed another challenge, although Lula insisted during his opening remarks that the region could overcome them. Reviving Unasur During the closed-door discussions, the leftist leader also advocated for the creation of a body to replace Unasur, the people familiar said. The union was first launched in 2008 by Maduros predecessor, Hugo Chavez, with the aim of uniting leftist leaders who rose to power during the so-called Pink Tide. In his closing remarks, Lula said that he did not intend to rebuild the bloc as it was, but wanted to construct a new path with the regions current leaders. The perception that the summit aimed to create a new version of Unasur, however, further clouded the discussions, another person with knowledge of the talks said, especially as the leaders sought to formulate a consensus statement about them. The official document that came out of the talks, known as the Brasilia Consensus, did not mention Unasur among its nine vague points of agreement. A previous version of the statement shared among the participants mentioned the past contribution of Unasur in the region. Read More: Uruguay and Chile Slam Lulas Defense of Maduro at Brazil Summit Maduro avoided responding to criticism from colleagues during the meetings, and asked for a return to international forums and the resumption of relations with all of the regions nations, according to two people in attendance. There will always be differences, Maduro said after the summit. But the most important thing is that there was a debate, a dialogue with a lot of tolerance, with a lot of frankness, and a declaration proposed by President Lula was approved addressing the priority issues of a new stage. Chile and Uruguay are among the nations that have restored relations with Venezuela, and Boric on Tuesday called on the US and Europe to lift sanctions that he said are hurting the countrys people. But their leaders have maintained the criticism of Maduros human rights record. During his closing remarks, Lula said Boric and Lacalle Pou were free to criticize his positions. But he also reiterated that Venezuela had been the target of a narrative selling a lie. In politics, when you want to destroy a foe, you build a negative narrative, he said. --With assistance from Maria Eloisa Capurro. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Macron tells Eastern Europe - we should have listened to you over Russia By Michel Rose PARIS (Reuters) - President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged on Wednesday that France should have paid more attention to Eastern European nations, which warned about a belligerent Russia before Moscow's forces invaded Ukraine. Macron told a security forum there should be no division between "Old Europe" and "New Europe", referring to enduring divergences between eastern and western European Union members over matters such as Russia. "Some said you had missed an opportunity to shut up. I think we also lost an opportunity to listen to you. This time is over," Macron said to applause during a speech at the GLOBSEC think tank in the Slovak capital, Bratislava. He was alluding to a remark in 2003 by then-French President Jacques Chirac, who said east European nations who sided with the United States and Britain in their decision to invade Iraq that year, opposed by some major western allies including France and Germany, had missed a "good opportunity to shut up". The remark shocked east European countries and contributed to an enduring mistrust of Paris by EU's newest members that has re-emerged since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. In the aftermath of the invasion, eastern EU countries such as Poland criticised Macron for keeping communication channels open with Russian President Vladimir Putin, or for saying that Russia should not be "humiliated" in the course of international efforts to end the Ukraine conflict. On Wednesday, Macron also said Europe should build up its own defence industry and not only rely on the United States for protection, though he acknowledged the U.S. contribution in money and materiel had been crucial to forming a credible front against Russia. "Let's be grateful and say thank you to the United States. But is this administration here forever?" Macron said. "That's why a European defence pillar in NATO is indispensable." The United States has presidential elections in November, 2024 with Donald Trump - who as president said European nations should pay more for their own defence - likely to run again. Macron said Russia had suffered clear setbacks in the war, including Finland's accession to NATO and losing legitimacy on the global stage. "War is far from over but one thing is clear: Ukraine won't be conquered. We can see that what was supposed to be a 'special operation' is already a geopolitical failure," Macron said. (Reporting by Michel Rose; editing by Mark Heinrich and Jon Boyle) The French leader also called for EU enlargement, to bring more countries into the fold French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday called on the West to offer Ukraine "tangible and credible" security guarantees as it battles Russia's invasion. Stressing that Ukraine "is today protecting Europe", Macron said in Bratislava that it is in the West's interest that Kyiv have security assurances from NATO. "That is why I'm in favour, and this will be the subject of collective talks in the following weeks... to offer tangible and credible security guarantees to Ukraine," he added. He said various NATO members could provide these guarantees for the time being as Ukraine waits to join the alliance. "We have to build something between the security provided to Israel and full-fledged membership," Macron said. The French head of state is on a visit to Slovakia, where he delivered a speech at an event organised by the international affairs think tank Globsec. The event, focussed on regional security issues, comes in the run-up to the NATO summit in Lithuanian capital Vilnius on July 11-12. Macron recalled that he once called the Western defence alliance "brain dead" but said Russia's invasion last year "had jolted NATO awake". "We need to help Ukraine today with all means to carry out an effective counter-offensive" against Russian forces, Macron said. "It's what we are currently doing. We have to intensify our efforts because what will happen in the next few months offers a chance even for... a lasting peace." Macron also called on EU nations to buy European arms and acquire in-depth strike capabilities. "It is up to us Europeans to in the future have our own ability to defend ourselves," he said. "A Europe of defence, a European pillar within NATO, is indispensable. It's the only way to be credible... in the long-term," he said. - 'EU must enlarge' - The French leader also called for EU enlargement, to bring more countries into the fold. The European Union should "invent several formats" to meet the membership aspirations of countries in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, he said. Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine itself are among the countries which have applied to join the European bloc, but conforming to the accession rules can be a difficult and timely procedure. "Yes, it (the EU) must enlarge. Yes, it must be rethought in terms of its governance and its aims. Yes, it must innovate, no doubt, to invent several formats and clarify the aims of each of these formats," Macron declared. "This is the only way to meet the legitimate expectations of the Western Balkans, Moldova and Ukraine, which must join the European Union, and to maintain the geopolitical effectiveness, but also the climate, the rule of law and the economic integration of the European Union as it exists today," he insisted. The two alternatives are to make candidate nations "wait indefinitely" or to let them swiftly join the existing EU structure with the risk that the bloc will no longer be able to function. Macron will next visit Moldova on Thursday where he will meet with fellow European leaders, including from outside the European Union. vl-fff-amj/pvh/giv The citys latest homicide victim who was found shot on an East Price Hill street this week was just 15 years old, according to the Hamilton County Coroners Office. Jamonee Crawley of Elmwood Place was gunned down about 5:30 a.m. on Enright Avenue Wednesday, a coroners report confirms. He was rushed to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. Cincinnati police have not announced any suspects or arrests as they continue to actively investigate. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to call the Homicide Unit at 513-352-3542. The teens slaying occurred on the same day that three juveniles - 10, 14 and 15 - were shot while walking down an Over-the-Rhine street beside Grant Park, according to police. A fourth victim who is in his 20s also was shot. Enquirer media partner Fox19 provided this report This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Jamonee Crawley, 15, killed in shooting in East Price Hill A Houston man accused of attacking a woman on the MSU Texas campus is already a lifetime registered sexual offender, according to court and Texas Department of Public Safety records. No trial date has been set in 78th District Court yet for Shawn Quinton Lewis, 29, who was previously convicted of rape in another state. Lewis was free Wednesday from the Wichita County Law Enforcement Center on a $200,000 bond, according to online jail records. Shawn Lewis He was convicted of rape in the second degree in Missouri, according to the Texas Public Sex Offender Registry maintained by the Department of Public Safety. The victim in the Missouri rape was a 21-year-old woman, according to the DPS online registry. The case was disposed of March 14, 2016. In Wichita County, Lewis is charged with sexual assault in connection with a Nov. 1, 2020, incident in Midwestern State University campus housing, court records show. He has entered a not guilty plea. The offense is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Anyone accused of a crime is innocent until proven guilty. The defense made motions in anticipation of a trial for Lewis, and 78th District Judge Meredith Kennedy granted a series of defense requests April 6, court records show. Wichita County Assistant Public Defender Jarret Knoll asked for a list of the state's witnesses, their statements, all of the defendant's audio and video statements, and other trial information from First Assistant District Attorney Dobie Kosub. A Wichita County grand jury handed down an indictment for the sexual assault charge against Lewis on July 8, 2021, court records show. About a year ago, the victim asked the Wichita County DA's Office to not prosecute Lewis, according to court records. She filed an affidavit of non-prosecution April 6, 2022, asking for the charge against him to be dismissed and saying she did not want to testify for the case, court documents show. An MSU police affidavit details the allegations against Lewis and the basis for probable cause for a judge to issue an arrest warrant. On Nov. 1, 2020, the victim told police she and two friends were sitting in her room at Sunwatcher Village apartments on the Midwestern State University Campus, according to allegations in an affidavit. They had been out having drinks earlier in the evening with three male acquaintances, and she left her room to see who else was there, according to allegations in court documents. She saw Lewis passed out on her roommate's bed. He woke up when she went in to check on him and asked her for sex, according to allegations in the affidavit. He then sexually assaulted her, trying to close the door and blocking her way out of the room. The woman struggled, pushed her way out of the room and ran back to her own room, according to allegations in court documents. She told her friends what Lewis had done, and they took her to her boyfriend's apartment and called police. Lewis was visiting the MSU campus with friends, according to allegations in court documents. More: Former student accused of committing sex crimes at Old High during school More: City View cases connected to sexual abuse allegations against coach move forward Trish Choate, enterprise watchdog reporter for the Times Record News, covers education, courts, breaking news and more. Contact Trish with news tips at tchoate@gannett.com. Read her recent work here. Her Twitter handle is @Trishapedia. This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Houston man accused of MSU sexual assault has prior rape conviction Man arrested and charged with first-degree murder in death of New Jersey councilwoman A man in Virginia has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of Eunice Dwumfour, a 30-year-old councilwoman who was found shot to death in her car in Sayreville, New Jersey, in February, the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office announced Tuesday. Rashid Ali Bynum, 28, has been charged with first-degree murder, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun and second-degree possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose, Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone told a news conference. Ciccone said Bynum was arrested outside Chesapeake City, Virginia, Tuesday morning and that authorities previously tracked Bynums cell phone from near the scene of the shooting and back to Virginia. On the day of the February 1 murder, Bynum had searched the internet for details related to Dwumfours church, Ciccone said. A search of the victims phone revealed Bynum as a contact in Eunice Dwumfours phone with the acronym FCF, the prosecutor said. FCF is believed to be an acronym for the Fire Congress Fellowship, a church the victim was previously affiliated with, which is also associated with the Champion Royal Assembly, the victims church at the time of her death. Dwumfour, a Republican, was found by police with multiple gunshot wounds just after 7 p.m. on February 1 and was pronounced dead on scene, according to Middlesex County officials. She was inside her car near her home when she was shot, according to CNN affiliate WABC. The vehicle then took off down the road and crashed into other parked vehicles, the affiliate reported. Bynum is awaiting extradition from Virginia to New Jersey to face the charges, according to Ciccone. No timetable for the proceeding was provided. CNN has been unable to determine if Bynam has an attorney. Rashid Ali Bynum of Portsmouth, Virginia, faces first-degree murder and weapons charges in the murder of Sayreville, New Jersey, Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour. - Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office/AP New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin spoke directly to the Dwumfour family at the news conference, telling them it was the beginning of the healing process and a sense of justice. There are no words that can be said to you that can make you whole, Platkin said Tuesday. At the time of the murder, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy called it a shocking, awful event. Ive asked a whole bunch of electeds and folks in the know who have been around for a long time, can they ever remember a sitting elected official in the state being shot and killed, and no one can remember, I mean, this is a shocking, awful event, Murphy said on the Ask Governor Murphy radio show on February 2. God bless this woman, Murphy said at the time. Within a week of Dwumfours murder, another New Jersey councilperson was murdered The council member was found shot to death in a car, though that case was determined to be a murder-suicide, a spokesman for Somerset County Prosecutors Office told CNN. Milford Borough Councilman Russell Heller, 51, was in the parking lot of a PSE&G energy company facility in Somerset County when a former employee approached his car and shot him, the prosecutors office said previously. Police identified Hellers shooter as former PSE&G employee Gary T. Curtis, 58, the Somerset County prosecutors office said. Hours after the killing, police found Curtis in a nearby town. They found Curtis with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, the prosecutors office said. Curtis was declared dead at the scene. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Phoenix police. Police arrested a man after a fatal collision killed a pregnant woman on Sunday afternoon in west Phoenix. At around 4 p.m., police responded to a collision on North 71st Avenue and West Thomas Road. Officers found that a Black Toyota RAV 4 traveling northbound on 71st Avenue was driven by Saul Figueroa, 18, who ran a red light before colliding with a White Chrysler 300, police said in a release. The passenger in the White Chrysler 300 was ejected from the vehicle and was later identified as Ruby Lopez Lopez, 23. Lopez Lopez, who was 4 months pregnant, was later pronounced dead at the scene, according to court documents. Shortly after the collision, Figueroa was picked up from the scene in a Silver Nissan Altima. Officers responded to the hit-and-run and witnesses provided police with a description of the driver of the Altima, as well as partial license plates which allowed officers to go to the residence of the driver. Police said that they spoke with Figueroa's suspected accomplice, later identified as Orlando Vega Martinez, 22. He told police he picked up Figueroa from the scene and that Figueroa made statements that were consistent with being the driver, according to a court document. Officers then responded to Figueroa's house after Figueroa's girlfriend contacted the police and allowed them to search their home and locate Figueroa, documents state. In Figueroa's house, police were able to locate clothing that matched the witness's description. Police said that Figueroa denied that he was the driver in the fatal crash but had injuries that were consistent with fresh blood to his nose, an airbag burn to his left arm and a scrape to his right ankle. Police said they read Figueroa the Miranda rights and noticed that he showed signs of impairment, like bloodshot and watery eyes, slurred speech, moderate odor of alcohol and admissions to drinking alcoholic beverages. Figueroa invoked his right to remain silent, according to court documents. Figueroa was charged with two counts of manslaughter and one count of failure to stay/with death/injury, documents state. The investigation remained ongoing with no clear indication of which vehicle ran the red light, however police believe based on evidence at the scene that the vehicle that Figueroa was suspected of driving ran the red light, court documents state. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Pregnant woman killed in collision in west Phoenix; suspect arrested This undated photo, provided by the Sayreville Borough Council, shows Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour. The 30-year-old councilwoman was found shot to death in an SUV outside of her home, authorities said on Thursday, Feb, 2, 2023. Police arrested her suspected murder on May 30. | Sayreville Borough Council via Associated Press Police arrested 28-year-old Rashid Ali Bynum on Tuesday morning on murder and gun charges connected to the death of a Virginia councilwoman and pastor, Eunice Dwumfour, in February, authorities announced. In early February, Dwumfour was shot multiple times and found in her car outside her Sayreville, New Jersey home, reported The New York Times. The Times reported that it was the 30-year-old councilwomans first year on the city council and she was the first ever Black person elected there. Police are still working to find a motive for the murder, but for now, they think that the victim and the murderer knew each other through their church, officials announced during a conference Tuesday. Bynums contact information was saved in Dwumfours phone with the acronym FCF, assumed to mean Fire Congress Fellowship, a church they were both affiliated with. Dwumfour had since married Peter Ezechukwu, the pastor of a prosperity gospel church called Champions Royal Assembly, reported The Associated Press. A family attorney told AP News that the arrest leaves the family with even more questions today than there were before. We have an alleged murderer in custody in Virginia, but now they are trying to also understand the relationship, how this person came to target Eunice, what was the rationale, family attorney John Wisniewski said in an interview with AP. An eyewitness account described a thin, black male with ear-length braids or dreads leaving the scene, which matches Bynums physical description in the mugshot posted by Yolanda Ciccone, the Middlesex County prosecutor, on Wednesday. Rashid Ali Bynum, 28, of Portsmouth, Virginia. Arrested today, Tuesday, May 30, 2023 at 10:45 A.M. in connection with the murder of Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour. Bynum was taken into custody outside a residence in Chesapeake City, Virginia without incident. pic.twitter.com/pnGiYP0EQa Middlesex Prosecutor (@MCProsecutor) May 31, 2023 Other evidence was collected from the suspects phone, Ciccone said. Location data placed him driving from Virginia to New Jersey the day of the murder and then back again. Rental records had his phone number listed for a white Hyundai Elantra that was also placed at the scene. Additionally, his search history showed the suspect looking to see which magazines are compatible with a specific handgun. The suspect was taken into custody and taken to Chesapeake City, Virginia. Authorities continue to look for more answers. A 28-year-old Virginia man was arrested on suspicion of murder more than three months after a New Jersey councilwoman was found fatally shot outside her home. Middlesex County, New Jersey, prosecutors announced the arrest of Rashid Ali Bynum on charges of first-degree murder, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun and second-degree possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose in connection to the death of Eunice Dwumfour, who served on the Sayreville town council. The 30-year-olds body was found in her car on Feb. 1, and for months, her family and the community sought answers in her killing. Sayreville business administrator Glenn Skarzynski told CBS News in April that the community was anxious and frustrated that her killer had not been caught at the time. We are frustrated as well, but we are confident that our law enforcement partners will identify a suspect and bring justice for Eunice and for the community, Skarzynski told CBS. This undated photo provided by the Sayreville, New Jersey, Borough Council shows Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour, who was found shot to death in February. This undated photo provided by the Sayreville, New Jersey, Borough Council shows Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour, who was found shot to death in February. When prosecutors announced the arrest and charges on Tuesday, they did not offer a possible motive for the councilwomans death. John Wisniewski, the attorney representing the Dwumfour family, said family members who attended the press conference did not recognize Bynum, local outlet My Central Jersey reported. For the family, there are as many questions now as to why did he target Eunice, what was the motivation behind him targeting Eunice, and those are all unanswered, Wisniewski told the outlet. This was a very complex, extensive case with painstaking police work every single moment until today, and it will continue after today, Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone said at a Tuesday press conference. Bynum and Dwumfour had attended the same church, but authorities did not provide details about their connection or how often they spoke. Ciccone said Bynum was a contact in Dwumfours phone under the name FCF, which is believed to be an acronym for the Fire Congress Fellowship, an affiliated church of the Champion Royal Assembly. Dwumfour served as a pastor and treasurer, according to public records. According to Ciccone, Bynum matched a witnesss description of the suspect, and phone records revealed that he allegedly traveled from Virginia to New Jersey at the time of the shooting. Ciccone said that Bynums online search history in the days before the killing revealed that he was looking for what magazines were compatible with a specific handgun. On the day of her death, Ciccone said, Bynum was searching for more information on the Champion Royal Assembly church and the Sayreville area. Dwumfour left behind her husband and 12-year-old daughter, who was home on the day of her murder. The girl told CBS in April that she tried calling her mothers phone before her death. We were waiting for my mom to look for a parking space, and then she was taking a lot of time, so we started calling her over and over again, but it wouldnt pick up. And then we heard gunshots, and we started calling the police, she said. Dwumfour ran as a Republican candidate and was elected to the Sayreville Borough Council in 2021. In an interview with TAPinto, Dwumfour described her background working with software companies and nonprofits, as well as her work as an EMT while she was in college. She was also a member of the boroughs Human Relations Commission. Bynum, who was arrested Chesapeake City, Virginia, will be extradited to New Jersey, where he will be held at the Middlesex County jail ahead of a pretrial detention hearing, a spokesperson for the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office told HuffPost. Subscribe to our true crime newsletter, Suspicious Circumstances, to get the biggest unsolved mysteries, white collar scandals, and captivating cases delivered straight to your inbox every week. Sign up here. Related... Jackson County prosecutors on Tuesday announced charges against a 22-year-old man with two felonies stemming from a daytime fatal shooting in the parking lot of an apartment complex in southeast Kansas Citys Hillcrest neighborhood. Mikell R. Grigsby, of Kansas City, was charged with voluntary manslaughter and armed criminal action in the killing of 23-year-old Donnell James. He was being held in the Jackson County jail Tuesday on a $100,000 cash bond. Kansas City police officers responded to a reported shooting May 20 in the 8600 block of Drury Avenue. Area residents heard the gunfire and went outside to assist a man who had been shot there. He was pronounced dead at the scene. According to court documents, crime scene investigators. found eight spent rifle casings. The victim appeared to have been shot from behind, and a firearm was found near his body. Witnesses told homicide detectives Grigsby and James were observing a fight between two women who were in an ongoing feud. At some point during the fight, two participants were armed with butcher knives, according to court documents, and James was seen panning his firearm back and forth while the fight was happening. Bystanders recorded videos in which Grigsby is allegedly overheard threatening to fire his gun if James does not drop his. Grigsby is accused of firing his AR-style pistol at James after James appeared to lower his handgun. Charging documents say Grigsby voluntarily responded to KCPD Headquarters with an attorney on Friday and declined to provide a statement to detectives. Online court records did not list an attorney for Grigsby as of Tuesday. Under Missouri law, Grigsby faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted of voluntary manslaughter. Armed criminal action also carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. The sentencing hearing for a 39-year-old man on Wednesday was almost as short as his conviction by a jury nearly three months ago. In March, jurors deliberated for 26 minutes. Wednesday's court procedure lasted approximately 35 minutes. Shawn Christian St. Lawrence, convicted of DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide, was sentenced by Circuit Judge Robert Hodges to 15 years in prison for the vehicular homicide. He was given five years for the DUI manslaughter, which the judge said is to run concurrent. He also received five years probation. A change in the law now allows prosecutors to charge someone for both DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide. Life behind bars: A grandfather and two granddaughters died in a DUI crash. The driver got life in prison Sentenced: Jury finds Missouri man guilty of DUI manslaughter; judge orders 130-month prison term Shawn Christian St. Lawrence fingerprinted by a bailiff after his sentencing on Wednesday. How the crash occurred On Jan. 3, 2019, Marilyn Ortega Ortiz, 47, of Marion Oaks, was killed when Florida Highway Patrol troopers said an older model BMW driven by St. Lawrence was traveling the wrong direction along U.S. 301. The BMW slammed into Ortiz's Honda Civic, killing her. A motorist tried to stop St. Lawrence, but was unsuccessful. Troopers said St. Lawrence was drunk at the time of the crash. FHP officials said Shawn St. Lawrence was driving this vehicle that was involved in a two-vehicle crash where a woman was killed in January 2019. Prosecutors had previously dropped a third charge of DUI with property damage. St. Lawrence has 87 days of credit while at the Marion County Jail. Unlike his trial, none of St. Lawrence's family or friends were in court for his sentencing. Attorney Matthew J. Olszewski represented St. Lawrence at trial and at Wednesday's hearing. Assistant State Attorney Katrina Self prosecuted the case. The victim's daughter and St. Lawrence speak at court Jeyka Ortiz, the victim's eldest daughter, spoke on behalf of her family. From a prepared speech and comforted by her brother Miguel Ortiz, the woman said her mother was the most important person in their lives. A single mother of three children, Ortiz said her mother worked two jobs and was on her way to her second job when she died. She said her mother was a hard-working, dedicated person who provided for her family, adding that her family died when their mother died. She said while his family would be able to see and visit St. Lawrence in prison, her and her family are condemned to emptiness. Marilyn Ortega Ortiz St. Lawrence said the accident was the worst day of his life, and he has nightmares about it. He said he went through therapy and he was very sorry for what happened. Lawyers argument and judge's sentence Self said St. Lawrence was impaired and admitted to drinking while on the stand. The prosecutor recommended a harsh punishment for St. Lawrence. The man's lawyer, however, argued that his client didn't have a criminal record and called the victim's death a horrible accident. He said while St. Lawrence's decision was poor, it wasn't intentional. He asked for four years. The judge said someone tried to warn St. Lawrence about the crash, and rejected four years in prison. He said St. Lawrence's impairment was high. Contact Austin L. Miller at austin.miller@starbanner.com or @almillerosb. This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Ocala man sentenced for DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide Man plunges 60 feet off cliff after rescuers revive him with Narcan, Washington cops say A man fell about 60 feet from a cliff after he was revived with Narcan near a Washington coastline, authorities and multiple news outlets reported. Rescuers initially responded to help a man in distress from drug usage on May 29 in Lower Elwha, the Clallam County Sheriffs Office said in a news release. Once they administered Narcan, the man got up and ran into the woods, deputies said. Narcan is a brand of Naloxone and a medicine that helps people who are overdosing on opioids. An officer found him in the woods, but he refused to go to them. Instead, he walked toward a cliff and fell about 60 feet onto the beach below at about 7:12 p.m., KIRO-TV reported from authorities. The U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Northwest airlifted the man from the beach about two hours later as the tide was rising, deputies said. He was taken to a hospital for his injuries. Lower Elwha is tribal land on the Olympic Peninsula in western Washington. #ICYMI (1/2) A @USCG aircrew from Air Station Port Angeles rescued a man who had fallen off a cliff near Lower Elwha, WA, on Monday night. Local EMS crews were able access the patient, but could not gain vehicle access to the area. The tide was also rising. by @ClineNorthwest pic.twitter.com/c9nnqnBTbk USCGPacificNorthwest (@USCGPacificNW) May 31, 2023 If you or a loved one shows signs of substance use disorder, you can seek help by calling the national hotline at 1-800-662-4357 or find treatment using SAMHSA's online locator. Woman swept into gorge and dies after falling from cliff in Glacier National Park Tire tracks lead rescuers to man missing for 5 days at bottom of Washington ravine Driver plunges 500 feet off cliff and gets wedged against broken tree, CA cops say A man tried to avoid police by jumping in the Boise River. After a rescue came an arrest A man jumped into the Boise River early Tuesday to avoid police officers but was later arrested after authorities pulled him out of the water. At around 11 a.m., police officers approached a 25-year-old Boise man in Julia Davis Park after receiving a citizen complaint about an individual who seemed impaired and was huffing compressed air, Boise Police Department spokesperson Haley Williams told the Idaho Statesman in an email. When the man saw the officers approaching, he started to run away, and when police tried to stop him, he allegedly battered the officers by striking them with his arms and legs, Williams said. He then jumped into the cold, swift-moving river. Police said the man refused commands to get out of the water, which caused officers and firefighters to get into the water and launch a boat to rescue him. Williams said the man avoided lines that were thrown at him, but eventually took a life jacket. By about 11:35 a.m., authorities were able to get him out of the river before he reached the dam near the Americana Bridge. Sections of the Greenbelt are still closed due to flooding and there is a dangerous river condition warning in effect for the Boise River. The Boise Fire Department doesnt recommend people go into the river as the water conditions could be life-threatening. A kayaker died in the river in May. The man Tuesday was arrested on suspicion of several counts, including battery on a law enforcement officer, which is a felony. Hes being held at the Ada County Jail and will appear before a judge Wednesday, when bond will be set. FILE PHOTO: Campaign event of former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump in Manchester Manhattan prosecutor seeks to keep Trump hush money case in state court FILE PHOTO: Campaign event of former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump in Manchester By Tyler Clifford NEW YORK (Reuters) - Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg on Tuesday moved to block former President Donald Trump's attempt to persuade a federal court to take over a state criminal case in which he is charged with falsifying business records connected to a hush money payment allegedly made prior to the 2016 election. In documents filed in U.S. District Court in Manhattan, Bragg argued that Trump is not entitled to the change in venue because he is not a federal officer. Lawyers for Trump have previously requested to move the case out of New York state court. Bragg also argued that Trump was not a federal officer at the time money was paid to a porn star for her silence before Trump, a Republican, was elected president in November 2016. Trump pleaded not guilty in state court in Manhattan last month to 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal reimbursements to his then-lawyer Michael Cohen for a $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels to stay quiet about an alleged sexual liaison, which Trump denies. Prosecutors say Trump falsified records related to reimbursing Cohen in part to cover up the fact that the payment to Daniels exceeded federal campaign contribution limits. "Defendant was charged by a New York county grand jury with New York crimes for falsifying the business records of private New York enterprises while reimbursing his personal lawyer for a pre-election expenditure," Bragg said in the filing. "He does not plausibly meet the required elements to justify removal to federal court." Earlier this month, Trump's lawyers argued that the federal court had jurisdiction because the charges had to do with conduct that took place while he was president, saying the case was based on checks allegedly written to Cohen by Trump in 2017, while Trump was president. They denied that the checks and related records were false records. The high-profile case, in which Trump became the first sitting or former president to be charged criminally, comes as the Republican primary for the 2024 election heats up. Trump's criminal trial is scheduled for March 25, 2024, meaning he will be on trial as his campaign for president is in full swing. Trump, who lost the 2020 election to Democratic President Joe Biden, is currently the frontrunner for the Republican nomination for 2024. (This story has been corrected to say that hush money payment was made prior to the 2016 election, not that records were allegedly falsified prior to the 2016 election, in paragraph 1) (Reporting by Tyler Clifford in New York City; Editing by Caitlin Webber and Leslie Adler) Manson disciple who conspired to kill former WA beauty queen Sharon Tate could go free The sister of actress Sharon Tate is asking for the publics support to keep Charles Manson cult killer Leslie Van Houten from being paroled. Sharon Tate was stabbed to death by Charles Mansons disciples in August 1969, a decade after she attended high school in Richland, Wash., and was named Miss Richland for Atomic Frontier Days. A day after Sharon Tate was murdered, Van Houten helped other cult members stab to death Leno LaBianca, a grocer in Los Angeles, and his wife, Rosemary, at the direction of Charles Manson. Van Houten, now in her 70s, is serving a life sentence. California Gov. Gavin Newsom rejected parole for Van Houten in 2020, but on Tuesday a California appeals court ruled that she should be released from prison on parole. Sharon Tates only surviving relative, Debra Tate, updated a change.org petition after the Tuesday ruling asking California Attorney General Rob Bonta to petition the California Supreme Court to stop Van Houtens release. The petition started in 2016, has more than 180,000 signatures. Sharon Tates sister, Debra Tate, has posted a Change.org petition opposing parole for Leslie Van Houten, a Charles Manson follower, who conspired to kill Sharon Tate. Sharon Tate, 26, was married to film director Roman Polanski and was 8 1/2 months pregnant with her first child, a boy, when she was one of five people killed at the couples Benedict Canyon home the night before the LaBianca killings. Tate was the last to be killed that night, begging for the life of her unborn child, according to the Heralds previous reporting. Sharon Tate was stabbed to death and her blood was used to write the word Pig on the front door of the mansion. Van Houten, then 19, was not part of the murders at the Polanski and Tate home, but her convictions were not only for the LaBianca killings the next night but also for conspiracy for the mass killings involving Tate. Sharon Tate in Richland Sharon Tate lived in Richland from 1955 to 1959, after the Tate family moved to Richland when the dad, Paul Tate, was assigned to Camp Hanford to work in Army intelligence. She attended Chief Joseph Junior High, and then Columbia High School (now Richland High) from September 1958 to October 1959. Sharon Tate She won the title Miss Autorama Tri-Cities in 1958, and a year later Miss Richland for Atomic Frontier Days. But the 16-year-old had to give up her title just two weeks later when her father received orders to be stationed overseas. The family later returned to the United States, and Tates first acting role was as a secretary on TVs The Beverly Hillbillies. Her first starring role was as Jane in the film Tarzan. Her filmography also includes Valley of the Dolls, Eye of the Devil, The Wrecking Crew and The Fearless Vampire Killers. The latter was directed by Polanski. Sharon Tate, 16, was a student at Columbia High School in Richland when she was chosen Miss Richland during the 1959 Atomic Frontier Days. Van Houten parole upheld Since 2016 Van Houten has been recommended for parole five times, with California governors rejecting parole each time. But after Newsoms latest decision to reject her parole, saying she offered inconsistent and inadequate explanations for her involvement with Manson, the Second District Court of Appeal in Los Angeles ruled 2-1 to reverse Newsoms decision, writing there is no evidence to support the Governors conclusions about Van Houtens fitness for parole. Van Houten has shown extraordinary rehabilitative efforts, insight, remorse, realistic parole plans, support from family and friends, favorable institutional reports, and, at the time of the Governors decision, had received four successive grants of parole, the judges wrote. The dissenting judge argued that there was some evidence Van Houten lacked insight into the heinous killings. Debra Tates petition said that Van Houten placed a pillowcase over Rosemary LaBiancas head and tied it with a lamp cord and also held her down when she was stabbed. She also says that Van Houten stabbed her in the lower back several times. For years she showed no remorse at all for her actions, according to the Change.org petition. When asked during her trial if she ever cried about the murder of Rosemary LaBianca she replied: Cry for her death? Why? ... Shes not the only person who has died. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Leslie Van Houten attends her parole hearing at the California Institution for Women in Corona, Calif., on Sept. 6, 2017. Leslie Van Houten attends her parole hearing at the California Institution for Women in Corona, Calif., on Sept. 6, 2017. Credit - Stan LimPool/The Orange County Register/AP A California appeals court recommended on May 30 that Leslie Van Houten, the youngest follower of the so-called Manson family, be paroled and released from prison. In 1971, Van Houten was one of several followers of the cult leader Charles Manson convicted for the Aug. 10, 1969, murders of grocery-store-chain owner Leno LaBianca and his wife Rosemary, There are various theories about the motives for the crime, but one of them suggests that Manson may have wanted money from LaBianca, who liked to gamble. The murders came a day after Manson followers murdered actress Sharon Tate in a home she shared with film director Roman Polanski, killing four other people on the property as well in what TIME magazine called one of the grisliest, bloodiest and most senseless crimes of the century. Van Houten, who was not involved in the Tate killing, was only 19 when she joined the cult. In 1969, TIME reported on the magic that drew followers to Manson. As the magazine described the Death Valley-based cult in the Dec. 12, 1969, issue, they holed up in run-down cabins and led an indolent, almost savage existence, singing Mansons songs, dancing, swimming in a small pool, stealing cars for cash and picking through garbage for food. At various parole hearings, Van Houten said her parents divorce, substance-abuse issues, and an illegal abortion left her vulnerable to the cults allure. More from TIME Read more: Why Did the Manson Family Kill Sharon Tate? Heres the Story Charles Manson Told the Last Man Who Interviewed Him Manson died in 2017 while serving a life sentence. Van Houten was initially sentenced to death, but California temporarily banned the death penalty in 1972. Since 1982, Van Houten, now 73, has had 21 parole hearings, the Associated Press reports. Leslie Van Houten, a former Charles Manson follower, looks from the window of a sheriffs van as she left the county court house following her court appearance for sentencing in Los Angeles, on July 21, 1978. Nick UtAP The May 30 opinion from a Los Angeles appeals court reverses Governor Gavin Newsoms 2020 decision blocking Van Houtens parole, stating that there is no evidence to support the Governors conclusions that she was unfit for parole. Over the years, Van Houtens legal team has pointed out that she earned advanced degrees while incarcerated and tutored other inmates. Van Houten has shown extraordinary rehabilitative efforts, insight, remorse, realistic parole plans, support from family and friends, favorable institutional reports, and, at the time of the Governors decision, had received four successive grants of parole, according to the courts opinion. Although the Governor states Van Houtens historical factors remain salient, he identifies nothing in the record indicating Van Houten has not successfully addressed those factors through many years of therapy, substance abuse programming, and other efforts. Van Houtens attorney, Nancy Tetreault, told CNN that shes gearing up for a lengthy legal battle, as she thinks its likely the California Attorney Generals office will ask the states Supreme Court to decide next steps for the case. She also expects the Attorney General to recommend that Van Houten stay in prison while her case is reviewed. While Van Houten has not made any public comments about Tuesdays decision, she expressed the remorse she feels about the 1969 killings at a parole hearing in 2017. To tell you the truth, the older I get the harder it is to deal with all of this, to know what I did, how it happened, she said, describing how shes undergone extensive therapy to deal with this question. I feel absolutely horrible about it, and I have spent most of my life trying to find ways to live with it. Many well-paid maritime port jobs available in Puget Sound region. Heres where to apply Are you interested in working in the maritime industry at one of Washington states many ports? There are currently multiple openings at the ports of Tacoma, Olympia and Bellingham. Jobs range from public relations positions to engineering, landscaping, security and more. Following is a list of current vacant positions at Puget Sound ports. To view more in-depth information on each positions qualifications and responsibilities, visit the respective web pages for the ports of Tacoma, Olympia and Bellingham. Port of Tacoma Director of Port Security Salary: $119,064 - $190,728 annually Summary: The director provides direction for the development, control and monitoring of the ports security operations and plans. Deadline: Unspecified Human Resources Manager Salary: $95,652 - $153,024 annually Flexible/hybrid remote possibility Summary: The HR manager leads development and implementation of the ports classification and compensation programs and is responsible for policies and procedures related to staffing and compensation. Deadline: Unspecified Project Manager I, Engineering Salary: $82,164 - $131,400 annually Summary: The manager is responsible for oversight on capital improvement projects, engineering design and is involved in projects involving buildings, site development, waterfront structures, railroads and utilities. Deadline: Unspecified Real Estate Property Manager Salary: $84,636 - $135,348 annually Summary: The property manager maintains positive relations with various federal, state and local agencies, economic development agencies, port customers and tenants, real estate brokers, investors and other parties. Deadline: Unspecified Seasonal Maintenance (temporary) Wage: $20 hourly Summary: The individual in this position performs grounds work, which includes maintaining right-of-ways, top of banks, vegetation, native species and grasses and removing invasive species. The position is expected to last up to three months. Deadline: Unspecified Senior IT Systems Analyst Salary: $95,652 - $153,024 annually Flexible/hybrid remote possibility Summary: The analyst works with vendors and stakeholders to lead the stewardship, expansion and support of the Port Community System, a suite of applications providing visibility to stakeholders throughout the supply chain, and the ports public website. Deadline: Unspecified Port of Olympia Communications and Marketing Senior Manager Salary: $94,981 - $142,478 annually Summary: This managerial position develops and manages the overall strategy for communications, marketing and outreach and orchestrates communications, marketing, and outreach for all Port divisions, with engagement and support from division directors. Deadline: Open until filled Contract and Grant Administrator Salary: $64,817 - $97,226 annually Summary: The administrator is responsible for developing and implementing the ports contracting procedures, processes, and systems for procurement, both pre-award and post-award contract functions. Deadline: Open until filled Port of Bellingham Marine Life Center Education Specialist (part time) Wage: $21.26 - $31.89 hourly Summary: The education specialist assists with day-to-day operations and developing curriculum, scheduling and leading class visits in the Marine Life Center. Deadline: June 16, 5 p.m. Marine Life Center Representative (part time) Police in Baltimore County, Maryland, arrested an 18-year-old man after he allegedly shot and killed a man and injured two other people early Monday morning. The Baltimore County Police Department said Jose Diaz-Contrenas was arrested on Monday in connection to the murder of 30-year-old Javier Argueta. At about 3 a.m. on Monday, officers responded to a Motel 6 on 5800 block of Baltimore National Pike. When the officers arrived, they discovered three people suffering from gunshot wounds. Two of the victims were transported to area hospitals while the third victim, Argueta, was pronounced dead at the scene. MARYLAND POLICE MAKE ARRESTS IN BEATING DEATH OF DAD AFTER SCHOOLYARD FIGHT: REPORT Jose Diaz-Contrenas is accused of shooting three people. One of the victims died. FOX 45 in Baltimore reported that Diaz-Contrenas confessed to the shooting. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP According to the outlet, charging documents revealed Diaz-Contrenas told authorities that he "could not stop" shooting the people once he started pulling the trigger. Police were provided a description of the suspect, who was located by officers in the motel parking lot. Detectives obtained surveillance video of the incident, which allegedly shows Diaz-Contrenas shooting several rounds at the victims. MARYLAND DUO GET 40 YEARS FOR KILLING, DISMEMBERING ROOMMATE AFTER CRACK-FUELED FIGHT Police said in the court documents that Diaz-Contrenas explained he got into a verbal altercation with the victims and admitted that he had a gun. He also confessed to killing Argueta and shooting the other two victims, police added. A defocused police car sits behind crime scene tape with flashing lights at night. Court records show that Diaz-Contrenas was charged with a single count of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted first-degree murder. Court filings show Diaz-Contrenas is from Indianapolis, Indiana. Maryland District Court Judge Karen A. Pilarski ordered he be held without bond. Baltimore County homicide detectives asked anyone with information about the incident to contact them at 410-307-2020. Information can also be given to police through the departments iWatch program, as well as through Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7Lockup. Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcrofts new rule governing libraries went into effect Tuesday, threatening to pull public libraries state funding over providing minors with books considered pornographic or obscene. The rules implementation sparked confusion in libraries across the state, where employees feared how it would be enforced and whether they were at risk of losing funding. Libraries, according to the rule, are required to submit their new written policies each year by July 31, when libraries apply for state funding. Ashcroft, a Republican who is running for governor in 2024, last fall proposed the rule, which prohibits public library employees from giving minors access to materials without first receiving parental permission. His office received roughly 20,000 comments on the rule, many of which argued it would lead to book banning and political censorship. The rule has and continues to create mass confusion in libraries throughout the state as they try to interpret and determine what actions they can and should take to ensure they continue to receive their funding, Cody Croan, chair of the Missouri Library Association Legislative Committee, said in an email Tuesday. Ashcroft pushed back on the criticism on Tuesday, saying the rule creates measures to protect kids from non-age-appropriate materials. Supporting the efforts of libraries across our state has been a priority of mine since day one we have been able to provide millions of dollars to libraries through grants and other funding, he said in an emailed statement. Yes, we want to make sure libraries have the resources and materials they need for their constituents, but we also want our children to be children a little longer than a pervasive culture may often dictate. Libraries, according to the rule, are prohibited from using state funds to buy materials for minors that could be considered pornography or obscene under state law. A previous version of the rule stated funds could not be used to purchase materials that appeal to the prurient interest of a minor, but Ashcrofts office revised the language after receiving criticism that it was too vague. Croan told The Star Tuesday that the lack of guidance on the rule sets libraries up to fail. The rule, Croan said, would allow Ashcroft to decide to pull funding from libraries based on materials he does not agree with and his own personal interpretation of the rule. Croan said some libraries in Missouri are considering expiring kids library cards to prevent unauthorized access to materials and requiring parents to come back and reauthorize the card. That is a huge barrier this rule has made librarians think they have to follow in order to keep their funding, he said. What costs will that create? It means children in Missouri who had access to their library will no longer have access until a parent can come back in to get them registered again. Kansas City area libraries already have policies for determining what materials go into their childrens sections, according to previous reporting. And they have processes for allowing residents to challenge materials. Kansas City Public Library, for example, makes those policies available on its website. Anne Kniggendorf, a spokesperson for the library, said in an email Tuesday that a staff committee was reviewing Ashcrofts rule to determine how it would impact services and funding. She said the library did not plan to retire childrens library cards. We strongly believe that our current policies provide free and open access to all materials, she said. Ashcrofts rule comes amid a larger culture war fight across the country as GOP lawmakers and conservative parent groups challenge diversity initiatives, school curriculum on the history of race in America and library books. Missouri House Republicans this year unsuccessfully tried to cut from the state budget the entire $4.5 million in state aid that libraries were slated to get next year in retaliation for a lawsuit challenging a state law passed last year that bans sexually explicit material from schools. The ACLU of Missouri filed the lawsuit on behalf of the Missouri Library Association and Missouri Association of School Librarians. Parents have also attempted to remove several school library books they call pornographic, ranging from classics such as Kurt Vonneguts Slaughterhouse-Five and Margaret Atwoods bestselling The Handmaids Tale, to books with LGBTQ themes, including Flamer by Mike Curato and All Boys Arent Blue by George M. Johnson. The rule requires libraries to create written collection development policies addressing the age appropriateness of materials. Libraries must allow parents to limit their childrens access to materials. Parents are emboldened to challenge materials, displays or events if they think theyre not age appropriate. The result of any challenge must be displayed on the librarys website. After receiving criticism that a previous version of the rule would have allowed anyone to restrict childrens access to library materials, Ashcrofts office revised it so that only a parent of a minor can limit access. When state dollars are involved, we want to bring back local control and parental involvement in determining what children are exposed to, Ashcroft said in a statement to The Star Tuesday. Foremost, we want to protect our children. One of the best ways to do that is by making sure parents know what their child is exposed to. Croan said Ashcrofts rule was a form of censorship, taking away peoples access to resources. While the rule does not directly remove materials, it removes people from the library, he said. House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, a Springfield Democrat who is weighing a run for governor in 2024, told The Star on Tuesday that Ashcrofts rule was pandering to a small group of people. She said it has led to headaches about books being banned and has made Missouri a punching bag for news outlets across the world. Our libraries should be a beacon of education full of resources for the entire community to learn and improve their lives, not political casualties at the hands of far-right extremists, she said. The Stars Sarah Ritter contributed reporting. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is proposing a system that would tax vacant land at a higher rate than that paid by homeowners, whose own taxes would be reduced by an average of almost 30% annually. The third-term mayor in his Wednesday keynote address at the Mackinac Policy Conference proposed a split-rate tax system, dubbed Land Value Tax Plan, which aims to incentivize more development in the city and discourage property owners from sitting on empty and blighted parcels. Duggan said Detroit's current structure, which taxes vacant land and blighted buildings at a lower rate than single-family homes and other structures, hinders initiatives to reduce blight. He added that for more than 50 years, the system rewarded blight and punished building owners, spreading decay that eventually outweighed developed structures. Duggan called it a "ticking bomb" that threatens the city's progress. We have a property tax system that punishes anyone that builds in Detroit and strongly rewards anyone who owns vacant land and completely neglects it, Duggan said. Our land has value and its time we tax it that way and stop incentivizing blight. The plan would need approval from the Michigan Legislature. Duggan is urging legislators to pass it in the fall. Then the idea would go on the election ballot for Detroit residents to approve. Duggan anticipated it will reach the ballot next February and if approved, the plan would be phased in over three years, beginning in 2025. The plan would not be mandated but available to other municipalities that choose to use it. The increased taxes on land speculators and others who are "not using Detroit land efficiently" would generate revenue to make up for the cuts to homeowners and businesses and keep city operations within a balanced budget, according to the city. The proposed plan would reduce property taxes for 97% of Detroit homeowners. More: Wayne County Treasurer halts owner-occupied foreclosures this year Higher taxes on residential properties can lead to increased tax delinquency, home abandonment and foreclosures, according to the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, a nonprofit that aims to improve life through effective use, taxation and stewardship of land. Detroit property owners often seek incentives for development projects to relieve themselves of higher taxes. A split-rate property tax system would apply different tax rates. It would apply a higher rate to land value and a lower rate to structures and improvements. It would leave less distortion in development timing and capital improvement decisions by property owners, according to the Lincoln Institute. More: High District Detroit housing rents wont support $1.5B construction costs, analysis shows A deeper look The average $50,000 home in Detroit would see a $450 yearly cut in taxes, according to the city. Regarding side lots from the Detroit Land Bank Authority, the median tax would increase by about $40 annually. Detroit spends $5 million dollars annually to mow grass and clear illegal dumping on vacant lots, while property owners pay about $30 in taxes per lot. The plan would hike taxes on those parcels by about 185%, which is expected to hold land speculators more accountable. Scrap yard owners would also see a 100% increase. Detroit has about 900 scrap yards and the city claims dozens are without permits. Owners overall pay less than $700,000 every year in property taxes, according to the city. Taxes on warehouses would increase 10%. However, 30% of warehouses would see a decrease in property taxes, an attempt to reward those efficiently using their space and maintaining their structures. Building, expanding and rehabbing multifamily housing would see a 20% savings. Small businesses would see a slight reduction. About 70% of small businesses would save 5% while others may see an increase based on location and the size of their parking lot. The city is working on a plan to protect existing businesses through a "tax credit system." "Properties that meet a certain development threshold will be capped at a maximum increase, and businesses that meet zoning requirements for parking will be capped at a maximum increase, and businesses that meet zoning requirements for parking will be protected from increases on those parking spaces," according to the city. Inside the Mackinac Policy Conference Detroit Future City CEO Anika Goss said the plan would help market Detroit neighborhoods and provide relief for residents and prevent them from leaving due to economic factors. "Theres some neighborhoods where the taxes are as much as 40% higher than the suburbs. If youre a Detroit resident, you know that your taxes are unreasonably high," Goss said. Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate, D-Detroit, told the Free Press that leaders need to figure out how to reduce tax burdens for residents. "I support the concept. I think that is, when you look at other municipalities and states that have implemented this, you know, most notably Pittsburgh has done this, other cities in Pennsylvania, I think it makes sense," Tate said. Free Press state politics and government editor Emily Lawler contributed to this article. Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact Dana: dafana@freepress.com or 313-635-3491. Follow her on Twitter: @DanaAfana. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Mike Duggan pushes policy to hike tax on vacant, undeveloped land Washington House Speaker Kevin McCarthy says he is not concerned about threats from House Freedom Caucus members to oust him from the speakership over the debt ceiling deal with President Biden. "Look, everybody has the ability to do what they want," McCarthy said Wednesday. "But if you think I'm going to wake up in the morning and be ever worried about that, no. Doesn't bother me. If someone thinks they have the right to do it. Call the motion." In order to win over conservative members in his bid to become speaker earlier this year, McCarthy agreed to a House rule that allows a single member to call for a "motion to vacate," which forces a vote on removing the House leader. The no-confidence vote would need only a simple majority to oust him. House Freedom Caucus members have railed against the agreement, saying it doesn't go far enough to rein in government spending and calling for stricter work requirements for safety-net programs. GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida suggested a vote of no confidence could come if McCarthy has to rely on Democrats to pass the debt ceiling legislation. "If a majority of Republicans are against a piece of legislation and you use Democrats to pass it, that would immediately be a black-letter violation of the deal we had with McCarthy," Gaetz told Newsmax on Tuesday. "And it would likely trigger an immediate motion to vacate." House Speaker Kevin McCarthy speaks to members of the media while arriving to the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, May 31, 2023. / Credit: Sarah Silbiger/Bloomberg via Getty Images McCarthy has said he expects a majority of Republicans to vote in favor of the bill, which cleared a key procedural hurdle Tuesday evening. Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told "Face the Nation" on Sunday that it was his understanding that at least 150 Republicans would vote for the deal, but McCarthy would not say Wednesday whether he would be able to deliver that many votes. GOP Rep. Dan Bishop of North Carolina said Tuesday at a news conference with House Freedom Caucus members that the bill "must pass with less than half of the Republican conference," and called it a "career-defining vote for every Republican." "To my colleagues in the Republican conference, you have a few hours to make up your mind," Bishop said. "You are the key to our being able to reacquire the unity. Now it's going to take some steps, by the way, because the leadership decision to forfeit that is going to have to be dealt with." Bishop later told Politico that he was considering trying to oust McCarthy from the speakership. "Absolutely," Bishop said. "It is inescapable to me. It has to be done." But Bishop also told the news outlet that he wants support from his colleagues before such a move. In a House Freedom Caucus call on Monday, Rep. Ken Buck of Colorado floated the no-confidence vote, but chairman Scott Perry of Pennsylvania suggested it might be too soon for such a move, according to NBC News. He later said he had only brought it up to see if "they were considering a motion to vacate as a result of a broken promise." Rep. Garret Graves of Louisiana, who was one of the Republican negotiators of the debt ceiling deal, acknowledged Wednesday that there was "some trust lost" with House Freedom Caucus members. Ellis Kim contributed reporting. Job market remains strong, Labor Department data shows Why Nvidia's chips are so important for AI DeSantis working to cut into Trump's lead in Iowa On today's episode of the 5 Things podcast: McCarthy faces revolt over debt limit dealHouse Speaker Kevin McCarthy faces revolt over his debt limit deal with President Joe Biden. USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison has the latest. Plus, USA TODAY Pentagon Correspondent Tom Vanden Brook talks about suspected Chinese spies at Alaskan military bases, the majority of American teachers think arming themselves with guns would make schools less safe, scientists and tech industry leaders issue a warning about the dangers of artificial intelligence, and former first lady Rosalynn Carter has dementia. 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 Wednesday, the 31st of May 2023. Today, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy faces a revolt. Plus, we hear about suspected Chinese spies in Alaska, and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter has dementia. Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is facing a revolt from the right flank of his party over his debt ceiling deal with President Joe Biden. And some Republican lawmakers say they wouldn't rule out trying to oust him from the speakership. USA TODAY White House Correspondent Joey Garrison has the latest. Welcome back to 5 Things Joey. Joey Garrison: Hey, thanks Taylor. Thanks for having me. Taylor Wilson: Joey, who's leading this charge and what issue do they take with the deal? Joey Garrison: Yeah, so the group we're talking about, as you correctly described the right flank of the House Republican caucus. This is largely comprised of the House Freedom Caucus members. There's about 45 of them and many of them are aligned with former President Trump and are relatively new to Congress. Many have been elected in the last two or three election cycles. Now, heading into the debt ceiling negotiation between McCarthy and Biden, we always knew that several of these wouldn't vote for any compromise reached by the two. And that's remained the case, but I think it's more widespread among that caucus than the opposition than some predicted. They believe McCarthy didn't go far enough to reach this type of spending cuts that they hope to see in a deal that raises the debt ceiling. And they believe, and this is significant, that McCarthy betrayed his commitment to several of them. If you rewind back in January when McCarthy was having difficulty to get the members of his own party to vote for his speakership, several of these House Freedom Caucus members got certain commitments from McCarthy to ensure he had the votes. One of those is what they call a "power-sharing agreement," where they would have more say of some of these individual members in deals reached by McCarthy. They say he effectively breached that agreement. Taylor Wilson: So Joey, what's this mean for today's critical vote on the debt ceiling? Joey Garrison: Well, the opposition from the members of the House Freedom Caucus isn't enough by itself to defeat today the vote on the debt ceiling deal. But there's also been considerable unrest from progressive Democrats on the deal for expanded work requirements, for food stamp and other benefits of federal aid, as well as over its overhaul to expedite permitting process for oil and gas projects. So, if you start thinking about all the no votes that could happen here, if you have the far right flank and several on the left, that means really both McCarthy and Biden are going to have to pass this from the middle from both the Republican and Democratic side. Ultimately, I do think the votes are going to be there, but I'm sure heading into this vote, McCarthy and Biden are both nervous. Taylor Wilson: And even beyond the debt sailing issue, you touched on some of this, but it seems like this issue has recast McCarthy's future as speaker, at least in some sections of the party. We know he already initially had trouble getting the votes for the speakership earlier this year. What's next Joey, for him and these power dynamics in the chamber? Joey Garrison: Well, among the agreements reached between McCarthy and some of these hardline Republicans to secure his speakership was a new rule that it only takes one member to propose ousting the speaker for that to get taken up. Of course, you'd still have to have a majority of votes in the House for any ouster of McCarthy of his speakership, but it really raises the level in the consequences of just having these disgruntled Republican House members. And so, one of those members, Dan Bishop from North Carolina, he became the first member on Tuesday to actually say he's considering a push to oust McCarthy over the debt ceiling deal. Scott Perry, the Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, he is part of a group of other Freedom Caucus members who had a press conference outside the capital on Tuesday. He wouldn't rule out pursuing an ouster if this bill ends up passing. So, really McCarthy's future could very much be at stake if this bill does go through. McCarthy has always had a rocky relationship from the beginning of his short time as speaker with this pretty sizable faction of the Republican Party. And this certainly, even if the debt ceiling bill passes, isn't going away. In fact, passage of this could probably make that friction even worse for him moving forward. Taylor Wilson: All right, Joey Garrison, always great insight for us from Washington. Thanks as always. Joey Garrison: Yeah, thanks Taylor. Taylor Wilson: US officials say that Chinese citizens posing as tourists have been trying to access military bases in Alaska, and they're suspected of spying. I spoke with USA TODAY Pentagon Correspondent Tom Vanden Brook to learn more. Thanks for hopping on the podcast, Tom. Tom Vanden Brook: Sure thing, Taylor. Taylor Wilson: So you wrote about a series of incidents involving Chinese citizens posing as tourists, but suspected of being spies in Alaska. Why do US officials have these suspicions, Tom? Tom Vanden Brook: Well, there have been a string of incidents at bases in Alaska in which Chinese tourists have shown up at gates or actually run past security. They claim to have been tourists who are lost. Well, there are a lot of tourists, in fact in Alaska, and many of them are Chinese. But as one officer told me, not all tourists are tourists. And one of the reasons they suspect more is in one case a vehicle blew past a security checkpoint at Fort Wainwright near Fairbanks, and when it was stopped, they found a drone in the car. So, there's this suspicion that a lot of these incidents are probing security to see where there are weaknesses, but also to see if there are ways to surveil the base from the inside. And this has happened before in other places, including Florida. Taylor Wilson: And Tom, why is Alaska such a place of interest? Tom Vanden Brook: There are a lot of very sensitive military sites in Alaska. The army bases, the interceptors that people may have heard about that are supposed to take down incoming ballistic missiles from North Korea, the military bases, some of its most sophisticated planes are there and radars. It's where the Chinese spy balloon of all things entered US airspace back in January. Taylor Wilson: And Tom, what's being done about these incidents and about some of these concerns? And I'm also curious in hearing from US officials and speaking with them, how do they weigh these concerns of Chinese spying with the privacy rights and other rights of Chinese Americans and Chinese citizens who are visiting the country and are just tourists? Tom Vanden Brook: Sure. Right. Some of these incidents are probably benign and they have to be aware of that and they're not publicizing a lot of this stuff, you can say that as well. All of this stuff that I learned was from sources who spoke on condition of anonymity. And as I understand it, a lot of the information about these incidents remains classified. So, there's not a ton we can know about it, but there are certainly benign reasons for people to visit Alaska. It's a beautiful place. I was just there last week. But, I was told by the Pentagon's number two official that intrusions in general are taken very seriously by the military, and they're doing a lot to beef up security at some of these bases, including in Alaska. I talked to an official there who said that previously it'd been fairly lax there because it had been considered something of a backwater for the military until recent years when they've started basing more troops there and more sophisticated aircraft. Taylor Wilson: Can you put in perspective for us where US-China relations are right now kind of writ large, and where the officials you speak with feel these tensions will go next? Tom Vanden Brook: To start out with not great. The relations aren't really good right now and we can cite a few different things, right? We had the Chinese spy balloon, which transited the entire width of the United States and maneuvered over sensitive military bases. We know that. It was filled with surveillance equipment before it was shot down off the coast of South Carolina. So that's one incident. We know that tensions are rising over Taiwan, which receives billions in US military aid. China wants to reunite it with the mainland. So, that's another friction point. And then finally, you've got China's support, if not materially, but in terms of moral support for Russia and its invasion of Ukraine. So, there's some real friction. Secretary of State Antony Blinken canceled his scheduled trip to Beijing last February after the Chinese spy balloon incident, and that hasn't been rescheduled, so tensions remain very high. Taylor Wilson: All right, USA TODAY Pentagon Correspondent Tom Vanden Brook, thanks as always. Tom Vanden Brook: Thanks Taylor. Taylor Wilson: The majority of American teachers think arming themselves with guns would make schools less safe. That's according to a newly released survey from the nonpartisan RAND Corporation. In the survey, 54% thought schools would be made less safe if teachers could carry. And another 26% said they didn't think it would make a difference in school safety. Only about one in five said they felt schools would be safer if teachers were allowed to be armed. Race and location played a factor in teachers' views. White teachers were more likely than Black teachers to say they thought teacher carry policies would make schools safer. And teachers in rural areas were also broadly more likely to feel that way. Still, school shootings were far from teachers' top safety concerns. Only 5% felt that was a top safety issue, while 49% believed it was bullying. And 25% said drugs. It's already legal for teachers to carry guns on school campuses, often needing special permissions in at least 27 states, according to the Giffords Law Center. Scientists and tech industry leaders issued a new warning yesterday about the dangers that artificial intelligence could bring to humankind. The statement read, "Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war." Those who signed the statement included high level executives at Microsoft and Google, according to the AP. Sam Altman, the CEO of ChatGPT maker OpenAI, and Geoffrey Hinton, a computer scientist known as the godfather of artificial intelligence, also signed the statement. More than a thousand researchers and technologists signed a longer letter earlier this year calling for a six-month pause on AI development, saying it poses profound risks to society and humanity. Concerns about AI systems outsmarting humans, eliminating jobs and more, have crept up with the latest generation of chatbots. And countries around the world are trying to decide how to regulate them in the years to come. Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter has dementia. Her family made the announcement yesterday, a diagnosis that comes as her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, is receiving hospice care. The family said in a statement that they hope sharing the news will increase difficult conversations about dementia. The Carters are the longest married first couple in US history. Rosalyn has worked as an advocate for mental healthcare at the Carter Center, the humanitarian organization the couple founded in the 1980s that's also behind global peace and health programs. The Carters also volunteered for decades with Habitat for Humanity, a Christian nonprofit that works to build homes. Yesterday's announcement of Rosalynn's dementia led to a wave of support. The White House said the Bidens have stayed in touch with the Carters' team, telling them they're in the President and First Lady's thoughts. And Senator Raphael Warnock, also from Georgia like the Carters, said he's praying for them. Thanks for listening to 5 Things. If you like the show, please subscribe and leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. And if you have any comments, you can 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: McCarthy's debt limit backlash, Rosalynn Carter has dementia: 5 Things podcast Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) says he hopes the Senate will pass legislation to raise the debt limit Thursday or Friday, as conservative Republican senators now say they wont hold the bill up as long as they get to vote on amendments. The strong support among House Republicans for the deal negotiated between President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) has influenced the political calculus in the Senate, and right now theres little appetite among GOP senators to drag out debate and votes through the weekend. I can tell you what I hope happens is that those who have amendments, if given votes, will yield back time so that we can finish this Thursday or Friday and soothe the country and soothe the markets, McConnell told reporters Wednesday. The prospective timeline for passing the debt limit bill sped up considerably Wednesday when Utah Sen. Mike Lee (R) told reporters that he would not hold up the legislation as he had previously threatened to as long as he gets votes on several of his proposals to amend the legislation. I dont have any desire to hold it up for the sake of holding it up, Lee told a reporter for NBC News. That was a more conciliatory tone than Lee struck last week, when he threatened to use every procedural tool at my disposal to impede a debt ceiling deal that doesnt contain substantial spending and budgetary reforms. He warned a deal that would do little to cut the deficit would not face smooth sailing in the Senate. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), another conservative who opposes the debt limit bill, says he wont prolong the Senate debate as long as he gets a chance to amend the Biden-McCarthy deal to cut total federal spending by 5 percent in each of the next two years. Im looking to express my opinion and the opinion of many, many conservatives, Paul said of his desire to vote on his proposal, which he is calling a conservative alternative to the Biden-McCarthy deal. Paul says Senate leaders will probably give him a vote on his amendment to speed up consideration of the debt bill. They wont do it out of generosity but they may do it out of wanting to leave town for a weekend, he said. But he warned that if Senate leaders refuse to allow his amendment to come up for a vote, he will raise procedural objections to the bill, which could delay final passage of the legislation past the June 5 default deadline. If we get no amendments, well be here until next Tuesday, Paul said. Other prominent conservatives including Sens. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Mike Braun (R-Ind.) said Wednesday they will not drag out the Senate debate. I dont see any reason to drag this out, Hawley said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Medford woman known as Ayla Wolf to soon hear fate for 'commander' role in Capitol riot WASHINGTON, D.C. A Medford woman who took part in the Capitol riot left the disturbance with a finger broken by a police officers baton, court filings say. Now, 51-year-old Stephanie Hazelton could face another painful consequence of her actions at the January 2021 insurrection. A federal prosecutor wants a judge to sentence Hazelton to 11 months in prison, along with a $10,000 fine. In a court filing, the prosecutor asserts Hazelton acted like a commander on the battlefield, shouting for more men and more helmets as she urged others to push past police officers guarding the Capitol. But Hazeltons attorney argues against prison in a rival sentencing memorandum. More: Father, son await sentencing Three from South Jersey admit to taking part in Capitol riot That filing acknowledges Hazelton shouted words of encouragement to rioters," but adds she "deeply regrets her conduct and apologizes to the law enforcement officers who struggled in that chaotic scene." Stephanie Hazelton seeks lighter sentence for Capitol riot Hazelton should be sentenced to no more than three months of home detention, two years on probation, and a significant fine, says defense attorney Nicholas D. Smith of New York City. Smiths filing says Hazelton survived a difficult childhood, including life in a religious commune with no plumbing, electricity, heat or phones. She now dedicates virtually all of her time to two home-schooled sons, ages 11 and 12, with special needs that require the mothers constant attention, the filing says. The prosecution's filing by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Amore acknowledges the familys challenges. But sadly, crime carries consequences, writes Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Amore. He observes Hazeltons family circumstances also did not stop or prevent her involvement in the riot in the first place." Hazelton, also known as Ayla Wolf, became more politically active during the pandemic and attended "medical freedom" rallies in New Jersey, according to letters of support that accompany her memorandum. She recorded her approach to the Capitol with her cellphone, at one point saying, This is battle. This is it. This is the battle. The prosecution says Hazelton repeatedly went into a Capital entranceway tunnel where rioters were assaulting police officers in a bid to overturn the election of President Joe Biden. At one point, Amores filing says, Hazelton stood at the front of a mob that used strobe lights to hamper officers vision and struck at them with poles and batons. It contends Hazelton should get the prison term because her presence in the entranceway contributed to the massive number of rioters who pushed against and assaulted ... officers for nearly two hours ... But her attorney notes Hazelton never entered the Capitol itself, did not make physical contact with officers and did not destroy any property. He also says no direct link connects Hazelton's words to a specific assault on any officer. The defense filing says a police officer struck Hazelton with a baton while she was crouching with her hands over her head outside the entranceway. It says an injury to Hazelton's finger required reconstructive surgery. Capitol rioters used strobe lights, batons and poles The prosecution notes Hazelton wore tactical gloves while accompanying members of the New Jersey Sons of Liberty on the day of the riot. Others in the group wore tactical gloves and vests, and carried riot shields. One day later, the filing says, Hazelton wrote, The first shot has been fired of the revolution. But Hazelton later tried to conceal her actions, saying I never came close to going in and I never saw any violence from the people," according to the prosecution filing. Hazelton, who was arrested 16 days after the riot, pleaded guilty in October 2022 to a charge of civil disorder and aiding and abetting. The prosecution also wants Hazelton to pay $2,000 in restitution for damage caused by rioters and to spend 36 months on supervised release. Jim Walsh is a senior reporter with the Courier-Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal. Email him at jwalsh@cpsj.com. This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Ayla Wolf, Capitol riot suspect from Medford, awaits sentence Before Meghan Markle ever walked into Prince Harrys life, the struggling spare had wondered what his life could be like beyond palace walls. In a resurfaced interview with author Angela Levin, the Duke of Sussex spoke candidly about his desire for an "ordinary life." His thoughts were shared in Levins 2017 column for the U.K.s Daily Mail as well as her 2018 book, "Harry: A Biography of a Prince." "I spent many years kicking my heels, and I didnt want to grow up," the now-38-year-old told Levin. "I felt I wanted out but then decided to stay in and work out a role for myself." In a resurfaced 2017 interview, Prince Harry described how he originally wanted out of royal life before carving out a role for himself. British royals expert Hilary Fordwich told Fox News Digital its likely Harry would have attempted to escape the pressures of being a "spare" beyond his home country whether the former American actress was in the picture or not. "Harry most likely would have left the royal family regardless of Meghan," she said, noting that the British prince had thought about laying down roots in Africa. "It has often been alleged that Harry felt the pressures of being a member of the royal family," royal commentator Ian Pelham Turner told Fox News Digital. "[He suspected that] trying to find his partner in life would be very difficult. I believe Meghan understood the pressures of prestige celebrity status. [I also believe] the pair thought they could weather any storms and carve out their niche role whilst seeking a compromise between living in U.K. and America." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP PRINCESS DIANA'S BODYGUARD ON PRINCE HARRY AND MEGHAN MARKLE'S CAR CHASE: 'ONLY GETTING A PART OF THE STORY' Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are shown at The Sunken Gardens at Kensington Palace on Nov. 27, 2017, in London. "This was not to be, and in the process of trying to develop their unique style, there was no compromise in the strict royal regime," he added. Harry told Levin that he was "determined to have a relatively normal life" while admitting he hoped to be lucky enough to have children in the future. He also recalled what it was like walking behind his mothers coffin during her funeral in 1997. Princess Diana, shown with son Prince Harry, died from injuries she sustained in a Paris car crash in 1997. She was 36. "I dont think any child should be asked to do that under any circumstances," said Harry. "It certainly wouldnt happen today." The British author previously told Fox News Digital that some of the happiest days of Harry's life were when he was in the army not in the palace. According to the royal familys website, Harry served in the army for 10 years, rising to the rank of captain and serving two tours of Afghanistan. "He said to me that he was the happiest in the army because he was just Capt. Wales," said Levin. "He wasnt Prince Harry. He loved being out in Afghanistan. He was brought back because someone leaked that he was there, and it became too dangerous for him and the soldiers." CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER Prince Harry mans a machine gun on Jan. 2, 2008, in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. The prince also told Levin he was devastated after his position in the army was leaked by the press. He had to be quickly withdrawn due to security reasons. "I felt very resentful," Harry said. "Being in the army was the best escape Ive ever had. I felt as though I was really achieving something. I had a deep understanding of all sorts of people from different backgrounds and felt I was part of a team. I wasnt a prince; I was just Harry." Royal expert Shannon Felton Spence told Fox News Digital that Harry yearned from the freedom he felt while being in the army where he found a sense of purpose. Prince Harry, right, is the younger brother of Prince William, left, who is heir to the British throne. "I dont think it was ever as explicit as he wanted to leave," she said. "That just didnt seem like an available option. One of the reasons he loved serving in the army, doing tours of Afghanistan, was that it gave him an opportunity to be outside the institution and to establish a life that really had very little to do with the role that he was born into. He knew he craved that feeling and that independence, but leaving didnt seem like an option until he met someone that showed him the path." Christopher Andersen, author of "The King," told Fox News Digital that Markle encouraged Harry to seek out a new life for himself. The 41-year-old became the Duchess of Sussex when she married the prince in 2018. The couple made their royal exit, which was coined "Megxit" by the press, in 2020. They moved to North America. PRINCE HARRY, MEGHAN MARKLE WERE WISE TO SKIP LATEST AWARDS GALA: PRINCESS DIANA'S FORMER BODYGUARD Meghan Markle, an American actress, became the Duchess of Sussex when she married Britain's Prince Harry in 2018. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex quit royal duties in 2020. "It's true that Harry struggled with his assigned role as the spare and for a time actively considered exiting his role as a full-time working royal," Andersen explained. "He was floundering, but then again, his brother, Prince William, the heir to the throne, also chafed at having every aspect of his life controlled by the palace string-pullers. "With Kate [Middletons] help, William eventually came to terms with the fact that he pretty much had to knuckle under," Andersen said. "Likewise, Meghan exerted considerable influence over Harry only in the opposite direction. No matter how you slice it, I seriously doubt that Harry would have departed the royal family the way he did if Meghan hadn't entered the picture. Also, to be fair, Meghan faced so much more pressure than Kate including racist attacks in the press. It's no wonder the Sussexes felt compelled to remove themselves from a toxic situation." "Would Harry still be a working royal living full-time in London if he hadn't married Meghan? Of course. But would he be happy? Probably not." Andersen added. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex moved to the wealthy, coastal city of Montecito, California. "Ultimately, both are very strong-willed characters who felt the only answer was to escape the royal straitjacket," said Pelham Turner. "Being the spare meant to strike on into new pastures where they both felt confident to have a simpler and family-friendly lifestyle. Meghan is a strong character who would have given moral support with the decision to move to America. That, in my estimation, gave Harry the determination to move with the times." The couple cited the U.K. medias treatment of the biracial duchess as one of the main reasons for their decision to quit royal duties. Since moving to Montecito, California, the pair have detailed their struggles with royal life in televised interviews, a six-part Netflix docuseries, and most recently, the princes memoir, "Spare." In a recent blow, a London judge rejected Harrys bid to pay for his own police protection, denying the royals request to challenge the U.K. government in court. PRINCE HARRY LOSES LEGAL CHALLENGE TO PAY FOR POLICE PROTECTION WHILE IN THE UK The British government stopped providing security after the couple quit royal duties. It then rejected his offer to pay for protection whenever he visits the U.K. Harry, now a father of two, said he doesnt feel safe visiting Britain with his young children. But while Harry lost the case to pay police to protect him in the U.K., another judge allowed his case to proceed in challenging the decision to deny him government-paid security. The prince has other active legal cases in London courts involving the U.K. press. "The scale of his unhappiness in the royal family hadnt been widely appreciated," royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams told Fox News Digital. "He has also been haunted by the death of his mother and the way that she died. He is also undergoing therapy and seeking a new life in California." Prince Harry attended his father's coronation ceremony on May 6, 2023, without wife Meghan Markle. "The problem is that the Sussexes' focus is on past resentments, not on moving on constructively," Fitzwilliams said. "He, however, sees his campaign against media intrusion as constructive. Meghan was undoubtedly the catalyst that led to the change; there seems little doubt this has been a change he has welcomed so far. Who knows, however, where it will lead as the rift with his family is so very deep." Harry was able to leave the U.K. and escape the pressures that once plagued him, but one question remains for many royal experts: What now? "The only thing one has control of right now is what you do today, tomorrow and the next day," said Fordwich. "Actions moving forward. One cant change the past, only the present. But hes driving looking in the rearview mirror." Photo: Lou Rocco (Getty Images) Meghan McCain, former co-host of The View and current Daily Mail columnist, is putting her foot down: Her toddler children will be only attending woke college over her dead body. In a new column published Wednesday, McCain noted that college degrees are increasingly insufficient at guaranteeing young people bright futures and bemoaned their emphasis on social justice. Who in their right mind would willingly subject themselves or their loved ones to hateful, irrational, woke indoctrination? McCain wrote. Free Market Capitalism 101! Read more The way things are going in academia todaycollege is the last place I would pay for my kids to attend, McCain continued, citing the vile, unhinged commencement address at The City University of New Yorks law school earlier this month, in which a graduate offering the keynote speech criticized white supremacy in the legal system as well as Israeli violence and colonization in Palestine. Much of the column descends into an unhinged rant about Fatima Mousa Mohammed, the aforementioned CUNY speaker, who is apparently the main reason McCain is questioning sending her kids to college. After all, what isnt a woke college? Even the Falwells Liberty University offers a criminal justice studies major as well as a major in guitar performance, for all the conservative bitching about how any non-STEM university courses are a waste of time. And even Brigham Young University, which prohibits pre-marital sex and same-sex intimate relationships, offers majors in Latin American studies and Arabic language and literature. Considering that right-wingers spent the better part of this week threatening to boycott Chick-fil-A over its internal DEI committee, all of that sounds awfully woke. The rest of McCains column names other supposed acts of woke extremism, like the University of Colorado Boulder recognizing misgendering students as violent (good!) as well as un-cited rumors that the school will soon require students to pass an Anti-Black Racism course in order to graduate. Professors and administrators no longer strive to teach students how to think, but what to think, McCain complains, without naming any young Americans shes ever spoken to. She then claims this demographic [wants] to be taught a trade or a skill and that their parents want to know that their hard-earned dollars are going toward enriching their childrens lives, not filling their heads with useless ideologies. A degree in intersectional solidarity isnt a great way to make a living, she concludes. American Universities better recognize that before they fail out. There are plenty of jokes to be made about how vapid and anti-intellectual McCains arguments are, but more than anything, Im just left feeling sorry for her two young children. Their mother, it seems, will go to any length to prevent them from learning about the world and the systems of power that belie itat a time when white suburban moms on school boards across the country are doing everything they can to incite panic on critical race theory and ban any books and curriculum that acknowledge racism and bigotry. Its just deeply sad to consider all the knowledge thats being denied to kids everywhere right now to ensure they vote for Republicans. More from Jezebel Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Melissa Gilbert says a bug bite landed her in the hospital in Port Jervis, N.Y., last week. (Jordan Strauss / Invision/Associated Press) A former Little House on the Prairie star has warned fans about the serious dangers of bug bites. Melissa Gilbert, 59, who played Laura Ingalls Wilder on the beloved western TV series and served two terms as the Screen Actors Guild president beginning in 2001, shared two photos via Instagram on Friday cautioning her followers not to dismiss a swollen or painful bug bite. A Public Service Announcement: Well that was a fun night in the ER (she said with dripping sarcasm), Gilbert wrote alongside a photo of her hand with an IV, and another that displayed a red and swollen upper arm. The actor then explained that, two days prior, a flying insect that was neither a bee nor a wasp, bit her arm. By last night my arm was incredibly swollen, red and hot, Gilbert continued, before adding that when she called her doctor, he suggested she hightail it to the ER. Gilbert said she was planning to wait it out, but her husband, West Wing actor Timothy Busfield, intervened and insisted they follow doctors orders and head to the hospital. After many tests I was diagnosed with an abscess and cellulitis, she continued. Got an IV of clindamycin, Benadryl and acetaminophen. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, abscesses and cellulitis are infections that occur when bacteria infects the skin, and possibly the deep tissue beneath the skin. Abscesses are known to be filled with pus and cellulitis causes redness, swelling and pain. Gilbert said that with medical care her swollen and painful mystery bite immediately began to improve, but she was still up all night in discomfort. After she was discharged, she began a regimen of antibiotics, Benadryl and ibuprofen. The lesson, Gilbert said, was to take bug bites seriously! If it swells up like crazy (my whole upper arm was swollen!) dont wait to get treated, thinking its just a little bite. How bad can it get? The Little House on the Prairie star, clearly shaken, continued urging fans to seek medical attention any way they could. Im serious! Back in the days of Laura Ingalls Wilder, this wouldve meant death or amputation. Theres treatment available. So now Im going to take my meds and rest like the good bunny I am. Stupid bug bite." Gilbert concluded by thanking Bon Secours hospital in Port Jervis, N.Y., with a special shoutout and then saying, Going back to bed now. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Messenger Coffee Co. is dropping its original plans for a location in Overland Parks Prairiefire, Kansas City parent company FairWave Specialty Coffee Collective told The Star Wednesday. We wont be moving forward with it as we initially developed the plans, but were hopeful to get out there, said Suzanne Gunning, vice president of marketing. I think the developer now is reimagining that space as well. Its unclear whether the business is planning a different location in the area, but Gunning said the original design for Prairiefire has been thrown out. The location would have been Messengers first in Johnson County. A rendering provided to The Star in 2021 showed indoor and outdoor seating, a drive-thru and an Ibis Bakery inside. (Messengers locations in the Crossroads and Country Club Plaza also serve Ibis baked goods.) At the time, the location was set to open in spring 2022, but construction was delayed thanks to supply chain issues. The building would have stood between Andys Frozen Custard and Chicken N Pickle, both of which were under construction at the time of Messengers announcement but have since opened. Isaac Hodges, FairWaves Kansas City market president, said the company began to take an introspective look at how it expands. Its important that we just do that right and smart, he said. The original plans for Messenger at Prairefire were an incredible project with many hands involved, and we owe a wealth of gratitude to everyone who worked on the project. Although were not moving forward, were proud of the brand and the people that got us this far. And, were always considering plans for new cafes. FairWave also owns local coffee brands The Roasterie, Black Dog Coffeehouse and Filling Station. The Roasterie will open two more cafes later this year in Kansas City, Gunning said, one as a partnership with UMB Bank off Interstate 435 and State Line Road. The other will open at the Childrens Mercy Clinics on Broadway at 3101 Broadway Blvd. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has threatened to remove news posts from those social media platforms should Assembly Bill 886, dubbed the California Journalism Preservation Act, become law. The measure, authored by Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks, D-Oakland, would require social media companies, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, to pay a monthly journalism usage fee to be determined through an arbitration process based on the social media platforms monthly ad revenue. The money would go into a fund for payments to the companies that produced the content. Media companies would be required, under the proposed law, to spend at least 70% of that money on journalists and support staff. Local newspapers have hemorrhaged advertising revenue and staff with the rise of the social media giants. The hollowing of local news outlets has weakened the civic fabric of many communities, proponents of the bill say, creating news deserts. Meta argued that news publishers chose to put their content on social media platforms, and that substantial consolidation in Californias local news industry largely predates the wide use of Facebook. Even now, the company said, news is not a significant portion of most users Facebook feeds, making up less than 3% of what people see. If the Journalism Preservation Act passes, we will be forced to remove news from Facebook and Instagram rather than pay into a slush fund that primarily benefits big, out-of-state media companies under the guise of aiding California publishers, according to a Meta statement shared with The Bee Wednesday morning. The tech industry has rebelled against the bill, with the center-left, tech-funded Chamber of Progress releasing an analysis that showed that the biggest beneficiaries would be disinformation giants, such as Fox News, the New York Post and Newsmax, rather than small journalism outlets and ethnic media. Wicks rebutted that claim in a recent interview with The Bee. 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 at the time. She responded Wednesday to Metas announcement on Twitter, calling it a scare tactic that theyve tried to deploy, unsuccessfully, in every country thats attempted this. It is egregious that one of the wealthiest companies in the world would rather silence journalists than face regulation, Wicks wrote. The bill, which is set to be heard on the Assembly floor Thursday, has received unanimous, bipartisan support in both committees where it has been heard. AB 886 is supported by a range of media outlets, including the San Francisco Chronicle and the Los Angeles Blade. It is co-sponsored by the California News Publishers Association, whose members include The Sacramento Bee and parent company McClatchys four other news outlets in the state The Fresno Bee, The Modesto Bee, the San Luis Obispo Tribune and the Merced Sun-Star. Mexicos president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has said he would support an agreement with some of the nations most powerful and violent cartels in order to stop the bloodshed that has overwhelmed the country. The comments from Lopez Obrador, or Amlo as he is commonly known, came after an activist searching for her missing brother published an open letter directed at 10 organized crime groups calling for them to stop the practice of forced disappearance, where a person is not just killed but completely erased, their body dissolved in acid or burnt to ash. I agree and I hope we achieve peace thats what we all want, said Amlo during his daily morning news conference when asked about the proposed pact. Violence is irrational and were going to continue looking for peace, to achieve peace and that is what were doing. And if there is an initiative of this kind, of course we support it. More than 100,000 people have disappeared in Mexico since 1964, the majority in the last 15 years or so since the government at the time launched its war against cartels, sending the military out into the streets and taking down key organized crime leaders. Related: Land of no return: the Mexican city torn apart by cartel kidnappings Lopez Obrador, elected in a 2018 landslide, promised a different, non-confrontational approach which he called hugs not bullets. He also vowed to take the military off the streets: instead, he has vastly expanded the armys funding and administrative power, while creating a national guard force with more than 100,000 troops. But the efforts have done little to staunch the bloodshed: more than 30,000 people have been killed every year of Amlos administration, and more than 40,000 have been reported missing since he took office, according to government figures. Mexico has been submerged in a spiral of violence that has left a deep mark on society, wrote the activist Delia Quiroa, who has been looking for her brother for nearly a decade, in her letter to gangs including the Jalisco New Generation and Sinaloa cartels. Reality has surpassed fiction and the number of missing persons in our country is impossible to count accurately. Making an appeal to the commonality between gangsters and victims, marked by traditions like Mothers Day and Day of the Dead, Quiroa called on the cartels to sign a social pact to prevent and eradicate the disappearance of people in Mexico and promote peace. Quiroa said that the idea for a pact with the cartels emerged from the desperation felt by family members of the disappeared who are fed up with the governments lack of response to the crisis of missing people. Its a struggle day after day after day, she told the Guardian. All we want is to know what happened, if [our relatives] are dead, if we can give them a dignified burial. When asked about the possibility of an agreement with the cartels, Lopez Obrador said that he would support anything that would mean curbing Mexicos ongoing carnage. I approve of everything that means putting aside or not using violence, he said. Cartel members should assume responsibility and behave like good citizens. Quiroa welcomed the presidents support for her pact with organized crime, but said that more needed to be done to help relatives of the missing locate their loved ones dead or alive. What does it matter if the people below [the president], who are in charge of helping victims, dont care? she said. He needs to supervise his people, to make sure they actually do something. Angelica Duran-Martinez, a security expert at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, said that finding solutions to violence beyond militarization is not necessarily outlandish, given that years of all-out war with cartels have only resulted in bloodshed. Putting emphasis on how are we going to reduce violence, how are we going to reduce the humanitarian costs and take emphasis away from pursuing crime at all costs, she said. Its an idea that should have a more central place in public policy. But without a strategy that takes into account the realities of organized crime in Mexico, the presidents words risk remaining just that. Simply declaring it doesnt mean anything, because the first big problem is how do you do it, she added. How do you do it without increasing the power of these organized crime groups? From left to right, Michigan State Housing Development Authority Executive Director Amy Hovey, Rocket Companies Vice President of Government Affairs and Economic Development Jared Fleisher, Renovare Development Managing Partner Shannon Morgan, City of Detroit Group Executive of Housing, Planning and Development Donald Rencher and Cherry Republic President Bob Sutherland. All participated in a panel about housing affordability at the Mackinac Policy Conference on May 30, 2023. MACKINAC ISLAND, MICH. As Michigan businesses work to recruit talent and hire new employees, some are running into one big problem: those employees need a place to live. Michigan needs more affordable housing, said MSHDA Executive Director Amy Hovey at the Mackinac Policy Conference, an annual gathering of political and business leaders, on Tuesday. She outlined a few factors: Some of Michigan's housing stock is older and in disrepair. The number of people per household is decreasing, meaning more people want homes. Sometimes there is a mismatch between where housing is available and where people want to live. And, people are surprised to hear it, but, "our housing in Michigan is expensive," Hovey said. Over the last decade the cost of for-sale homes has gone up 84% while incomes have gone up about 25%, she said, making the cost of housing out of reach for many. All this has some employers looking to get involved. Here are some approaches they're taking: Direct investment Bob Sutherland, president of Cherry Republic, said he's one of several Northern Michigan employers that have directly invested in housing developments to support their sometimes-seasonal workforces. "Housing and the lack of it is one of the most difficult challenges businesses are facing up in the north, it's been that way two decades," Sutherland said. He said business owners are interested in housing not just for seasonal workers, but for the future of their businesses. As they age, he said, they're looking for the next generation of people who might be able to take over and finding there aren't enough young people in the region. Opinion: Mackinac Policy Conference panel was fascinating insight into changes in Michigan More: Voucher program can help low-income Michigan families get housing but using it isn't easy Infusing housing into economic development For Donald Rencher, group executive of housing, planning and development for the city of Detroit, it's pretty clear: "Housing should be and is a key component to any economic development strategy," he said. Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, D-Grand Rapids, said lawmakers hear a lot about the need for housing and are putting a spotlight on the issue. "We've talked a ton about economic development and we know that you can't just do sort of these incentive programs without also supporting the more holistic approach, what happens around those businesses that people who are going to work there really value... If you don't have a home that you can afford in a price range that works for you, it's going to be a problem. And we know that people won't come or they won't stay," Brinks said. Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, R-Portage Twp., said he sees room to cut red tape, like permitting through state agencies, to help with housing and other development. "If you're serious about middle (class) housing, if you're serious about economic development, you've got to figure out permitting first and foremost," Nesbitt said. Seeking policy changes Jared Fleisher, vice president of government affairs and economic development for Rocket Companies, said when Dan Gilbert saw a call for worker housing in downtown Detroit he worked to fill the need. He's opened thousands of units, with plans for thousands more. But, Fleisher said, "I don't think that's the solution. I really don't. I think it's kind of a one-off." Instead, he said it's state and federal policy that will drive the change. He's encouraged to see a re-invigorated MSHDA, and thinks subsidies are needed to solve the state's workforce housing problem. He encouraged investment in the state's "missing middle" program, which subsidizes efforts to construct new housing or rehabilitate older properties targeted at people making 60-120% of the area's median income. Lawmakers have sent $100 million toward the effort since last year. The pending state budget includes money for other housing efforts. Fleisher said employers can work to address the issue directly, but they also have an opportunity to influence lawmakers. "They can go to Lansing. They can grab somebody here when they see a state legislator, a state senator, the governor, and say 'priority number one for this budget ... invest in housing,'" Fleisher said. Emily Lawler is the state government and politics editor for the Detroit Free Press. Reach her at elawler@freepress.com or on Twitter @emilyjanelawler. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan businesses want to make housing more affordable for workers Microsoft has deployed a critical troubleshooter update for Surface Pro X devices that will give users access to their camera again. On May 23rd, plenty of Surface Pro X owners reported that their cameras had stopped working entirely. Based on stories posted on Reddit, Twitter and the company's own support forums, reinstalling the camera's driver didn't work. Tweaking the device's date and rolling it back to May 22nd did, but it came with its own set of potential issues, such as authentication and scheduling problems. In its new patch notes, the tech giant said the affected devices are powered by Qualcomm 8cx Gen 1, Qualcomm 8cx Gen 2, Microsoft SQ1 and Microsoft SQ2 processors. The troubleshooter update will be automatically applied to affected devices, and owners can check if it has been installed by going to their "hardware and devices troubleshooter" history and then looking for an entry that says "[a]utomatically change system settings to fix a problem on your device." As Ars Technica notes, users are reporting on the Microsoft support forum that the troubleshooter worked sufficiently, save for some posters saying that their cameras were working in slow motion outside of Teams or Zoom. Microsoft admitted in its announcement this workaround isn't perfect it is, after all, only meant to be a temporary fix. It might "disable some features of the camera or lower the image quality," but it will make the camera functional until Microsoft comes up with a permanent fix. The tech giant is currently working with device manufacturers to release updated camera drivers expected to restore full camera functionality. It doesn't have an ETA for the driver rollout yet, but it promised to share more information when it becomes available. Former vice president Mike Pence is expected to announce his campaign for 2024 president next Wednesday, according to reports. Mr Pence, 63, will make the official announcement on 7 June just before his town hall with CNN in Des Moines, Iowa, a source told NBC News. The Messenger also reported that Mr Pences presidnetial launch was imminent. For months, speculation has circulated that the former vice president was planning on joining the already-packed race for the White House. When Mr Pence announces, he will be joining his old boss, former president, Donald Trump along with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson and other GOP candidates in the increasingly crowded 2024 field. According to sources, Mr Pence will be spending much of his campaign in Iowa before the caucuses, spending time in all 99 counties. The former vice president will likely have some explaining to do to Trump-aligned voters who tried to re-elect him and Mr Trump in 2020. After election results determined President Joe Biden had won, Mr Trump suggested Mr Pence not certify the results on 6 January 2021. Mr Pence rebuffed Mr Trumps demand. Mr Trump placed heavy blame on Mr Pence for losing the election and ultimately an angry mob of Trump supporters attacked the Capitol building on January 6 some with the intention to seize Mr Pence or hang him, as the crowd outside chanted. In the aftermath of January 6, Mr Pence has made a sharp turn against Mr Trump thus driving a rift between himself and Trump voters. Though it is unclear if Mr Pence will be able to rally former supporters behind him. As of now, the former vice president is polling slightly ahead of Ms Haley but trailing far behind Mr Trump and Mr DeSantis, according to FiveThirtyEight. Mr Pence served as vice president under Mr Trump from 2017 until 2021. He was also governor of Indiana from 2013 until 2017 as well as a representative for Indiana from 2001 until 2013. Former Vice President Mike Pence will publicly launch his presidential campaign June 7 with a rally in Des Moines, according to a source close to Pence who was not authorized to speak publicly about his plans. Pence has been widely expected to launch a run for the Republican nomination and has been laying the groundwork for a presidential campaign for months. He has made regular visits to Iowa and is set to appear at U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst's annual Roast and Ride fundraiser this weekend, joining more than a half-dozen other presidential candidates, before his official launch. The decision to announce the campaign with a rally in Des Moines reflects Iowa's importance in determining the future direction of the Republican Party, the source said. More: Mike Pence calls Donald Trump's policy on Social Security 'identical' to Joe Biden's During a May 24 event in Ottumwa, Pence acknowledged Iowa's "outsized role in shaping our nation's leadership." "I honestly think that the choice that we will make for a standard bearer in our party has maybe never been more important," Pence told the crowd of a few dozen Wapello County Republicans. "I do believe different times call for different leadership." Pence plans to campaign heavily in Iowa, focusing on retail politics where he can introduce himself to voters and talk with them about his faith and his values. He plans to campaign in all 99 Iowa counties, the source said. That will include familiarizing Iowans with his record during his six terms in Congress and as governor of Indiana before he served as vice president under former President Donald Trump. 2024 Iowa caucuses: Where and when are presidential candidates visiting Iowa? Pence will hold a number of events in Iowa following his campaign announcement. He is already set to participate in a CNN town hall at 7 p.m. at Grand View University in Des Moines. That event will be moderated by Dana Bash. A March Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll found Pence was viewed favorably by 66% of Iowa Republicans and unfavorably by 26%, while 7% were not sure. His stock among Iowa Republicans dropped substantially since a previous Iowa Poll in June 2020, when 86% viewed him favorably and 7% unfavorably. Since then, Trump turned on Pence and attacked him for not helping to overturn the results of the 2020 election on Jan. 6, 2021, causing a number of loyal Trump supporters to turn against Pence. Pence has sketched out contrasts with some of his major Republican rivals, including Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, on issues like support for Ukraine. Trump has expressed skepticism about the United States sending military aid to Ukraine. "There are some voices in our party that are essentially sounding the retreat," Pence said in Ottumwa. "Im somebody that believes that America is the leader of the free world. Were the arsenal of democracy. We ought to be inspiring freedom and we ought to continue to stand with those that are fighting for freedom all across this world." Pence has also called for making changes to Social Security and Medicare to reduce the nation's spending and rein in the national debt. Trump has said Republicans should refuse to make cuts to Social Security and Medicare a policy Pence said is "identical to Joe Biden's." More: DeSantis kicks off 2024 presidential campaign in Iowa: 'The stakes couldn't be higher' Part of Pence's pitch is about returning civility to government. He has spoken about an old essay he wrote after his first unsuccessful run for Congress, called "Confessions of a Negative Campaigner." In the essay, he admits that "as a Christian, I knew I should have lived up to a higher standard in the public debate and I failed." "I believe that democracy depends on heavy doses of civility and I think we ought to be looking for leadership that will restore a threshold of civility in public life, that will bring respect back to the dialogue," Pence said in Ottumwa. "Lets fight and lets argue over the direction of the country but lets do it like Americans, with respect for one another." Stephen Gruber-Miller covers the Iowa Statehouse and politics for the Register. He can be reached by email at sgrubermil@registermedia.com or by phone at 515-284-8169. Follow him on Twitter at @sgrubermiller. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Mike Pence to announce GOP presidential bid June 7 in Des Moines The News Former Vice President Mike Pence plans to launch his 2024 bid for the White House next Wednesday, a source familiar with the plans confirmed to Semafor. Pence plans to release an announcement video accompanied by a speech in Iowa. The decision from Pence to enter the race sets up a direct challenge against former President Donald Trump, the presumed frontrunner in the Republican primary and the man Pence served under for four years. Know More Pence, who has been exploring a bid for the past several months, has criticized Trump following the Jan. 6 Capitol riots, in which Trump pressured Pence to reject the election results and falsely claimed he had the power to do so. In March, Pence said Trump's "reckless words endangered my family and everyone at the Capitol that day," and that history would hold him accountable for it. Pence was also subpoenaed to testify in the investigation into Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 election. His response to scandals involving his future opponent has been muted at times. The day a New York jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation this month, Pence defended his former boss, telling NBC News that "in my 4 years serving alongside the president, I never heard or witnessed behavior of that nature." Former Serbian spy chiefs Jovica Stanisic and Franko Simatovic were convicted in 2021 A UN court slapped two former Serbian spy chiefs with longer prison sentences Wednesday in the last major Hague war crimes trial from the 1990s Bosnian conflict. Judges rejected appeals by the late Serbian president Slobodan Milosevic's state security service boss Jovica Stanisic and his deputy Franko Simatovic against their 2021 convictions, and increased their original jail terms from 12 to 15 years. The court found that Stanisic, 72, and Simatovic, 73, had been part of a criminal plan to "ethnically cleanse" non-Serbs from large parts of Bosnia and Croatia -- reversing their acquittal on that charge at the initial trial. Prosecutors hailed the verdict as crucial because for the first time it formally linked atrocities in Bosnia to the regime of Serbia's Milosevic, who died in custody in The Hague in 2006. "It's really important," chief prosecutor Serge Brammertz told reporters outside court. "It's the only decision we have with the direct involvement of officials from Belgrade convicted as part of a joint criminal enterprise." Munira Subasic, president of one of the "Mothers of Srebrenica" associations that campaigns for justice for victims of the 1995 massacre, said the verdict could help ease the tensions that still plague the Balkans. "Without truth, there is no justice. Without justice, there is no trust. And without trust, there is no reconciliation," Subasic told reporters. - 'Criminal purpose' - Only Stanisic was in court for the verdict, wearing a blue jacket and wide-collared white shirt, and occasionally wringing his hands. Simatovic watched by videolink from his cell. The court upheld the pair's convictions for the war crime of murder and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, forcible transfer and deportation. It said they had aided and abetted a Serb death squad that terrorised the Bosnian town of Bosanski Samac in April 1992 with killings, rapes and looting. But judges also found them guilty of being part of a broader conspiracy to commit wider crimes across the Balkans, and for being responsible for a murder in Croatia in June 1992. "The appeals chamber dismisses Stanisic's and Simatovic's appeals in their entirety... and imposes a sentence of 15 years" on each, head appeals judge Graciela Gatti Santana said. "Stanisic and Simatovic shared the intent to further the common criminal purpose to forcibly and permanently remove the majority of non-Serbs from large areas of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina." Stanisic has already served seven years and Simatovic just over eight years, the judge added. - 'Ethnic cleansing' - Suspects including Bosnian Serb political leader Radovan Karadzic and military chief Ratko Mladic have previously been sentenced to life by the Hague tribunal, but it has been harder to link crimes to Serbia itself. Prosecutor Brammertz said Wednesday's verdict showed that "political leadership from neighbour countries, here in particular from Belgrade, were involved in the planning of those large ethnic cleansing campaigns." The Stanisic and Simatovic case has been running for two decades, making it the longest and the last at the UN tribunal dealing with crimes from the wars that tore apart Yugoslavia after the fall of communism. The pair were arrested in 2003 and cleared at an initial trial in 2013, but the court ordered a retrial. "This pronouncement marks a milestone in the mechanism's history... The appeals chamber pronounces the last appeal judgment," Gatti Santana said. The court, formally known as the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (MICT), has taken over cases left over from the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY). The ICTY closed in 2017. The Balkans wars left about 130,000 people dead and millions displaced. Tensions continue to simmer in the region, with clashes erupting on Monday in northern Kosovo between ethnic Serbs and NATO-led peacekeepers. dk-jhe/fg [Source] Actor Ming-Na Wen will host a documentary series called "The Sweet and the Sour" that explores Asian American food culture. In the series, Wen will take a celebrity guest on a culinary journey delving into a specific aspect of the Asian and Asian American Pacific Islander communities. Through sampling dishes and recipes, the show will explore immigrant stories and dispel cultural misconceptions and stereotypes. Credited as co-creator of the series alongside Steven Garcia, the project is a personal one for Wen, who grew up around her family's Chinese restaurant in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My parents were foodies before that label was invented. Their passion for food became my passion. The incredible meals they made not only nourished my body, their food enriched my understanding and appreciation for my Chinese culture and heritage. Later in life, I became fascinated with the connection food offered to people from different backgrounds. More from NextShark: The best of both worlds: 'Hannah Montana' actor attending Jackson Wang meet-and-greet surprises fans She continues by noting, "Food affects us on every level and generates emotions, memories, and lessons about other cultures. Wen, who recently received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is slated to release her first cookbook next year. More from NextShark: 10 Asian horror films for a truly terrifying Halloween Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! 'X-Men: The Animated Series' Jubilee voice actor says character should be played by an AAPI in reboot Chipotle now 'Chicotle' changes their Twitter name after BTS' Jungkook's viral mispronunciation [Source] Actor Ming-Na Wen received her long-awaited star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Tuesday, just days before this years Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month draws to a close. Wen, 59, received the 2,757th star at the ceremony held at 6840 Hollywood Blvd. in Los Angeles. It's a really special way to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month by ending it with something as tremendous as this," Wen said at the beginning of her acceptance speech. Joining Wen at the event were her The Joy Luck Club co-stars Tamlyn Tomita, Lauren Tom and Rosalind Chao. More from NextShark: Duo charged with targeting 27 Asian American homes in 4-month-long San Francisco burglary spree Tomita, who also delivered a speech at the event, said it has truly been joy and luck to know Ming-Na Wen and to be in your orbit. Besides thanking her castmate, Wen also thanked Amy Tan, author of the novel the film was adapted from. Wen said Tans words made her realize she was not alone in her struggles growing up as an Asian woman in America. Her words ... gave us a classic film that I am forever blessed to be a part of." Also joining Wen at the event was her family, including her mother, husband and children. James Hong, who received his star in May 2022 and made history as the oldest actor ever to receive a star, was also in attendance. More from NextShark: Donald Trump: 'China's going to be next,' will absolutely invade Taiwan following Russia-Ukraine crisis In her speech, Wen recalled a director who wanted her to anglicize her name so it would be easier to remember. I didn't listen to him. I guess now that it's Ming-Na Wen Day, I made the right move, she said. Wen also honored Hollywoods writers, who are currently in the midst of a weeks-long strike, in her speech, saying that she supports them wholeheartedly. More from NextShark: Uber Gets Sued for Allegedly Firing Minority Drivers Because of 'Racist' Passengers Without writers, there are no stories, and therefore, no Hollywood. Without writers, we wouldn't be here, none of us would be here. Without writers, there would be no Walk of Fame, she said. Born in Coloane, Macao, on Nov. 20, 1963, Wen and her mother moved to Queens, New York, when she was 6 years old. She was exposed to the world of acting after participating in a play during the third grade. In 1985, Wen made her television debut as a royal trumpeter in Mister Rogers Neighborhood." She landed the role while she was still studying at Carnegie Mellon Universitys School of Drama in Pittsburgh, where the show was filmed. More from NextShark: Man With Whip Rants About Filthy F**king Disease Outside Chinese Consulate in Sydney Wen reportedly became the first Asian American actor to ever get a contract role in a daytime drama after landing the role of Lien Hughes in As the World Turns in 1988. Following her breakthrough casting in The Joy Luck Club, Wen landed several movie roles, including Chun-Li in the 1994 Street Fighter film. She was notably the voice of Mulan in the hit 1998 Disney film. Wen also made a name for herself as a TV star, appearing in 118 episodes of the medical drama E.R. from 1995 to 2004. She was also one of the lead stars of the Marvel series Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., where she played Agent Melinda May for seven seasons. Wens latest projects include her role as Fennec Shand in The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett and the animated series Star Wars: The Bad Batch. She also lent her voice to Fong Wing in the Max original Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai. She is also set to voice a character in the upcoming animated series Mech Cadet Yu alongside Daniel Dae Kim. Missing boater who hit barge on Missouri River in KC found; Cause of crash determined A missing Missouri man was found nearly a week after he disappeared when his sailboat collided with a moored barge on the Missouri River in the Kansas City area, the Missouri Highway Patrol reported online. Troopers found the remains of 47-year-old Brian E. Hale of Carrollton, Missouri, about 2 p.m. last Thursday downstream from the crash near the Jackson County village of River Bend, which is where Missouri 291 crosses the Missouri River, according to an online crash report. The crash occurred about 1:30 p.m. May 20 as Hale was piloting a sailboat on the Missouri River, according to the highway patrol. Authorities later determined the boat had a broken rudder and it floated in front of a stationary barge on the Missouri River near Interstate 435, according to the highway patrol. Hale was not able to change course and struck the barge, which submerged the sailboat. The boat reemerged on the back end of the barge. Its believed Hale fell overboard during the collision. The highway patrol and the Kansas City Fire Department searched the river, but were not initially able to find him. Troopers found Hales body six days later at near the 350 mile mark of the Missouri River. Missing camper was last seen entering river in inflatable kayak, Colorado cops say Crews are searching for a camper who was last seen entering the Colorado River in an inflatable kayak, according to a sheriffs office. Deputies went to Pioneer Park campground in Hot Sulphur Springs at about 2 p.m. on May 29, according to the Grand County Sheriffs Office. The campgrounds host told them a vehicle belonging to a camper who should have checked out was still at the campsite, a post on the sheriffs office Facebook page says. Other campers told deputies theyd seen Ari Harms getting into the river with an inflatable kayak on May 28, the post says. Rescuers started searching the area of the river and Byers Canyon but could not find Harms, the post says. A portion of the river and parts of a highway in Byers Canyon were closed on May 31 so crews could conduct air and ground searches, the sheriffs office said. Friends shared pictures of Harms on Facebook and pleaded for people to join the search. Ari is so loved, Ash Alnite wrote on Facebook. Hes family. Hes a friend. He has done so much for our community. We need all the positive energy we can get to bring him home safe. Harms works as a housing stability resource manager for Hope Communities, an affordable housing advocacy organization in Denver, according to the website. Harms also performs as a drag king under the name Simon Paul, according to friends on social media. If anyone has any information on this beautiful soul, please come forward, wrote Ryen Charles Ernstsen. They are cherished, loved, and make a huge impact on our queer community regularly. Hot Sulphur Springs is about 100 miles northwest of Denver. Byers Canyon is an 8-mile stretch of canyon that follows the Colorado River between Hot Sulphur Springs and Kremmling. Woman who disappeared driving cross country with boyfriend found after weeks, cops say 39-year-old slips in Arkansas river and vanishes after being swept away, officials say 65-year-old kayaker missing after not returning home from fishing outing, PA reports say A Missouri ER doctor was found dead of a gunshot wound in an Arkansas lake Tuesday after vanishing earlier this month, as it was revealed that he was once kidnapped under mysterious circumstances, his brother and authorities said. Three days after Dr. John Forsyth, 49, proposed to his fiancee, he disappeared May 21 after leaving work at a hospital in Cassville, a town of 3,100 deep in the Ozarks. His body turned up nine days later in Beaver Lake, about an hour south of where he was last spotted, with a gunshot wound, according to a press release from the Benton County Sheriff's Office. Officials didn't disclose the location of the wound or whether Forsyth's death was a suicide. MISSOURI ER DOCTOR WHO VANISHED 3 DAYS AFTER PROPOSING TO FIANCEE FOUND DEAD The deceased doctor's brother, Richard Forsyth, said the family was gathered for dinner Tuesday night when an official with the state police came to the door with the news of Forsyth's death. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP "We're devastated," Richard told Fox News Digital. "There's no way he killed himself," Richard said. "Many times he mentioned he might be in danger." In February 2022, Forsyth was kidnapped and then released, according to his brother. "It was cold. He was zip-tied. He was made to feel very unsafe and taken on a car ride with some people to a bridge and was threatened," Richard told Fox News Digital. Richard, who created a cryptocurrency with his brother, said no police report was filed after the alleged kidnapping. He also said he only found out about the sinister incident from a friend the night his brother went missing. "He did not file a police report because he believed he was in continued danger," Richard said. When asked why anyone would want to harm the beloved doctor, Richard replied, "That is part of the great mystery were dealing with." Forsyth, a father of eight, proposed to his fiancee days after a divorce settlement was reached with his ex-wife on May 11 that awarded her about $19,000 a month in alimony and child support, his brother said. TEXAS WOMAN SAYS SHE'S CHICAGO MISSING CHILD FROM OVER 20 YEARS AGO: REPORTS However, the ex-couple had an amicable relationship, he added. Forsyth vanished after texting his fiancee that he would see her in "a little bit" at about 7 a.m. then abruptly stopped responding, according to Cassville Police Det. Stuart Lombard. His shift had just wrapped up at Mercy Hospital, and he was captured on surveillance footage headed to his luxury RV in the parking lot where he stayed when he was working. He was due back at the hospital at 7 p.m. but never showed up. Forsyth had never arrived late or missed a shift in the 15 years he worked at the hospital. That night, police found his Infiniti sedan at a yard waste facility at the edge of the Cassville Aquatic Center about a mile from the hospital. PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPLOYEE WANTED FOR KIDNAPPING TAKES COPS ON HIGH-SPEED CHASE SPANNING MULTIPLE COUNTIES: POLICE He had left his possessions, including his wallet, passport, five phones and his laptop, in his unlocked RV and car. "His phones are an extension of his physical body. He wouldn't go anywhere without them," said Richard, who was surprised to learn that his brother owned more than two phones. The brothers, who share a love of mathematics and science, had dinner the Wednesday before his disappearance and spent two hours talking about encryption technology. Forsyth had a vacation planned to visit several family members and friends in Idaho and Utah beginning May 22 and was excited about his engagement. "He was full of optimism," Richard recalled. "He had a great life." The crestfallen brother said he was struggling to make sense of what happened. "This is so bizarre," Richard told Fox News Digital. "It's a three-dimensional Jackson Pollock painting, and nothing makes any sense. There is no theory that works." Lombard said the body believed to be that of Forsyth is still pending official identification. Police are investigating how the doctor got to Beaver Lake, Lombard added. The probe is a joint effort by the Benton County Sheriff's Office, Cassville Police Department and the Missouri State Police. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Cassville Police Department at 417-847-4700 or 417-847-4911. A Missouri doctor vanished days after proposing to his girlfriend. How did his body end up in Arkansas lake? Dr John Forsyth vanished on 21 May. His body was found nine days later (Facebook) Dr John Forsyth was the happiest his family had seen him in a long time. His divorce had recently been finalised and he had just asked his new partner to marry him. Three days after the proposal, 49-year-old Forsyth who had also launched a cryptocurrency business with his brother left his hospital shift in the Missouri Ozarks and told his new fiancee he would see her soon. The father-of-seven was never seen or heard from again. On Tuesday (30 May), after a desperate nine-day search, Forsyths body was found in a lake in northwest Arkansas. His car had been found unlocked and abandoned at an aquatic centre days earlier with his passport, wallet, two phones, laptop and the keys to his RV inside. What led to the doctors fortunes taking such a catastrophic turn remains a mystery, with his grieving family members now desperate for answers. Heres what we know so far about the case: Last known movements Forsyth, 49, was last heard from at around 7am on 21 May. The emergency room doctor had just finished a shift at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, a remote town of 3,100 residents deep in the Missouri Ozarks. He was texting his new fiancee as he left the hospital making plans to see her. He was texting her things like Hey, my shifts over and Ill see you a little bit later, his brother Richard Forsyth told The Daily Beast last week. And then minutes later, he stops responding to text messages and is seen walking toward his RV. Forsyth often parked his RV in the hospital parking lot so he could sleep in it while on-call. Just minutes later at around 7.15am, Forsyth was captured on surveillance footage driving his second vehicle a Black Infiniti into the parking lot of Cassville Aquatic Park. Dr John Forsyth vanished on 21 May when he left a hospital shift (Facebook) A white SUV was then captured pulling up close to the vehicle a few minutes later, Richard said. The SUV drove away a few minutes later before Richard said his brother was seen on the footage getting out of his vehicle around 10 to 15 minutes later and walking around. And then he walks away from his car, he said. The alarm was raised later that day when Forsyth failed to show up for his next shift at the hospital. Both the hospital and his brother said it was totally out of character for him to miss work. In the 15 years he had worked at Mercy Hospital, the dedicated doctor had never missed a single shift. Dr Forsyth has never missed a shift without notifying us in the past, so when he failed to arrive for his scheduled shift, and we were unable to reach him, we became concerned and alerted authorities, the hospital said. We invite everyone to join us in praying for his safe return. Richard told The Daily Beast he wouldnt miss a shift even if his eyeballs were hanging out of their sockets. It was an immediate red flag, he said. His hospital colleagues reported him missing to Cassville Police that day. The search Two days later on 23 May, Forsyths Infiniti was found abandoned in a remote area near the Cassville Aquatic Center. The car had been left unlocked and investigators found his two cellphones, laptop, keys, wallet and passport inside. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, carried out extensive searches spanning a nine-mile radius around the park. Thermal imaging drones and K9 dogs were drafted in to help with the search but they found no clues as to the doctors whereabouts. As the search rumbled on, Forsyths desperate family members set up a Facebook page titled Find Dr John Forsyth to raise awareness about the case and seek information from the public. Dr Forsyths car was found at the Cassville Aquatic Center (above) (KOLR) On Monday, Forsyths sister Tiffany posted an update about her brother. My brother has now been missing for week. Im grieving, Im afraid, and it feels like the world has tipped into sheer chaos, she wrote. Ive often felt like Johnny and I are two sides of the same coin. Our lives have lead us in very different directions, but in the last couple of years weve been bonding over our intense desire to understand the mysteries of the universe, and Ive treasured those conversations like precious jewels. I rarely meet anyone I can toss around ideas with like he can. Now hes disappeared, seemingly into thin air. We have so much more to talk about. Im so afraid hes just gone. Please dont let this be how this ends. The hole that will leave in my life will be empty forever. Please help us find him. Speculation Forsyths family said there no warning signs prior to his disappearance as speculation and theories spread online. Richard said he had last seen his brother just a few days before his disappearance and he seemed the happiest he had seen him in a while. We had dinner Wednesday before he disappeared, and we sat and talked for three hours, he told AP. I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future. Forsyth had also been making plans for the future, proposing to his new girlfriend just three days before he vanished. He was a doting father to his seven children and really cared for his patients, Richard said. As the case drew attention online, speculation grew that the doctors disappearance could be tied to his recent divorce or the cryptocurrency business he had launched with his brother. In his divorce, Forsyth was given a court order to pay almost $20,000 in child support and alimony to his ex-wife. Richard told OzarksFirst that the amount of money was not a concern to his brother. A second rumour suggested there may be some link between his disappearance and the brothers crypto business. Richard told the local outlet that one person had been angry with Forsyth and vowed revenge. But he said that the person in question was somewhere overseas and insisted that neither the individual nor the business venture was connected to his brothers disappearance. Dr Forsyths body was found in a lake on Tuesday (Facebook) He expressed some extreme emotions towards us that he would get revenge. And ultimately his campaign failed, and we didnt hear from him again, Richard said. I dont see that being enough motivation for someone to cross the Atlantic and cause trouble. While the family sought to put the rumors to rest, Richard said that his brothers disappearance was suspicious. A lot of oddities about his disappearance and police kind of agreed after an investigation that the circumstances are pretty suspicious, he said. The tragic discovery The search ended in tragedy on Tuesday (30 May) when Forsyths body was discovered in a lake in northwest Arkansas Benton County. My brother has been found and he is dead. Thank you to everyone who assisted in the search, Richard wrote in a heartbreaking Facebook post. The Benton County Sheriffs Department said that the body is believed to belong to Forsyth but investigators are awaiting an autopsy for official identification. The circumstances surrounding the tragic discovery are not yet clear. However, Cassville Police told the Associated Press that there were no signs of foul play. Forsyths family told KOLR that they are meeting with detectives on Wednesday to get additional information. A Missouri ER doctor and father of eight who vanished last week after texting his new fiancee he'd see her in "a little bit" was found dead Tuesday, his brother said. Dr. John Forsyth, 49, was reported missing May 21 after he didn't report for his 7 p.m. shift at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, a town of about 3,000 deep in the Ozarks. His brother Richard Forsyth said authorities located his body Tuesday in northwest Arkansas. "We're in shock. I suspect foul play," said Richard, who is expecting more details from a detective on Wednesday. TEXAS WOMAN SAYS SHE'S CHICAGO MISSING CHILD FROM OVER TWENTY YEARS AGO: REPORTS "He wouldnt miss a shift even if his eyeballs were hanging out of their sockets. He's punctual in the extreme," Richard told Fox News Digital. "It was an immediate red flag." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Forsyth has worked at the same hospital for 15 years and has never missed a day of work or been late, Richard added. The last person known to hear from Forsyth, who created a cryptocurrency with his brother, may have been his fiancee, Cassville Police Det. Stuart Lombard told Fox News Digital. They were texting at around 7 a.m., and he told her his shift was over, and he'd see her "a little bit later." Then he suddenly stopped responding, Lombard said. Video surveillance captured the doctor walking to his luxury RV, where he stayed in the hospital parking lot during his shifts. Police located Forsyth's Infiniti about 700 feet from the Cassville Aquatic Center entrance at a yard waste site. Richard Forsyth said John Forsyth's passport, wallet and two phones, along with his RV and car keys, were still inside the Infiniti. Forsyth had also left the RV unlocked with his laptop and two additional cellphones behind when he left, which Richard called "very uncharacteristic." Lombard said police, with the assistance of the Missouri State Highway Patrol and other agencies, had conducted a canine and ground search of the 90-acre park around the recreation facility but turned up nothing. MADELEINE MCCANN SEARCH IN PORTUGAL OVER, ITEMS COLLECTED FOR TESTING: POLICE Richard said his brother got engaged three days before he disappeared and days after finalizing his divorce from his first wife. An uncontested divorce settlement was issued May 11 that awarded his ex-wife about $19,000 a month in alimony and child support, Richard added. He reportedly had a trip planned to see several family members and friends in Idaho and Utah beginning May 22, including his second-oldest daughter who had just completed her Mormon mission. The doctor's family had been distraught over the baffling disappearance and launched a Facebook page to try to track him down. "Im grieving, Im afraid, and it feels like the world has tipped into sheer chaos," his sister, Tiffany Andelin, wrote on Facebook Monday. "I'm so afraid he's just gone. Please don't let this be how this ends. The hole that will leave in my life will be empty forever. Please help us find him." After the family got the devastating news late Tuesday, Richard told Fox News Digital, "We were too late." Anyone with information is urged to contact the Cassville Police Department at 417-847-4700 or 417-847-4911. Moldova says Europe summit signals unity in face of Russia's war Moldovan President Maia Sandu and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen meet in Chisinau By Alexander Tanas CHISINAU (Reuters) - Moldovan President Maia Sandu said on Wednesday a summit of European leaders hosted by her country this week would send an unwavering message of peace and condemnation of Russia's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine. She said an agreement on mobile phone roaming from Jan. 1, 2024 had been signed with visiting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. More than 40 European leaders are set to meet at a castle deep in Moldovan wine country on Thursday in a show of support for the former Soviet republic that applied to join the European Union after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. "The second meeting of the European Political Community is proof of the growing unity on the continent," Sandu told a joint press conference with von der Leyen. "... this event is a strong confirmation of our unwavering commitment to peace, a firm condemnation of the Russian invasion, constant solidarity with Ukraine and a demonstration of support for Moldova," Sandu said. Moldova, like Ukraine, applied to join the EU last year shortly after the Russian invasion which sent streams of Ukrainian refugees into Moldova and has hit the economy. The pro-Western government, which accused Russia of plotting its downfall earlier this year, said it plans to use the summit to showcase reforms and convince leaders to open EU accession talks as soon as possible. Von der Leyen said Moldova was making clear progress as it seeks EU membership. "It is amazing to see that despite all the pressure, Moldova is advancing rapidly and with great quality," she said. The EU will "significantly increase" its delegation in Chisinau to support further reforms, she added. Moscow has had hundreds of peacekeepers and troops in the breakaway region of Transdniestria in Moldova's east since a war between pro-Russian separatists and government forces following the 1991 Soviet break-up. Moldovan Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu said at another press conference that Russia had aimed for 30 years to support separatism in Transdniestria, to illegally maintain troops there and to impose embargoes on Moldovan exports. "These actions and policies of Russia towards Moldova have failed. Moldova has chosen the path of EU integration," he said. (Additional reporting by Bart Meijer, Writing by Tom Balmforth, Editing by Timothy Heritage and Grant McCool) A barrage of what were described as harassing Facebook messages by a Moms for Liberty leader against a member of the group Stop Moms for Liberty resulted in a guilty verdict and $200 fine against defendant Nicole Prussman in Judge Randy Schmalzle's district court in Pike County, May 31. The victim, a woman living in Pike County at the time of the unwanted social media communications, told the court she was afraid Prussman would come after her family and try and kill her, based on the Facebook messages. She said she did not know Prussman personally, only that Prussman was chairperson of the Moms for Liberty in Monroe County. A trooper from Pennsylvania State Police's Blooming Grove barracks said that on March 15 the victim alerted them that she was being harassed over Facebook by Prussman. The trooper said it was an argument between the two women, but he filed the summary count of harassment because the victim had repeatedly and unsuccessfully asked Prussman to stop contacting her. Prussman's defense attorney Craig Brown questioned the propriety of government intervention in an online platform. He asked if the trooper investigated further than the Facebook messages, to which the trooper said he had not and was unaware of any other method of communication between the two women. The victim said that the messaging from Prussman was "threatening" and that Prussman almost "(fantasized) about what she'd do to me and my children." The victim said there were likely over 200 pages of messages over a two-day span. "She said she'd find my family," the victim said on the witness stand. The entrance walkway to the Magisterial District Court 60-3-02, Palmyra Township, Pike County, where Judge Randy Schmalzle presides. She said Prussman indicated she knew where the victim lived, and "would run into me." Furthermore, the victim said Prussman put up a "wanted poster" on Facebook. The victim said she was "afraid she'd come and kill me", adding "this was not just a stupid Facebook post." Questioned by the defense lawyer if she and Prussman did not like each other, the victim stated that she believes Prussman "needs mental help" but does not know her well enough to say she does not like her. Asked by the lawyer why she did not stop Prussman's Facebook communications by "blocking" her, the victim stated that she feared Prussman and wanted to know what Prussman was going to do so that she, the victim, could protect her own family and notify the police. The victim said she did restrict Prussman, which prevents Prussman from reading the victim's private posts. She blocked Prussman only when a trooper advised her to. The victim said even if she had blocked her, Prussman would still use the murdered woman's Facebook profile to reach her. Brown said that is not what the citation is about, but Prussman said, "it's all connected." She said it was part of Prussman's use of public posts while the harassing messages were being posted. The victim was referencing a report posted by the online outlet Daily Beast alleging Prussman was involved in hijacking a dead woman's Facebook page to harass people. According to the article, messages sent by Prussman came from the Facebook account of Elizabeth Bennett Leonard, who was murdered in 2021 by her child's babysitter. The article further alleges that Prussman has engaged in harassment that was racist in nature. The court ordered Prussman to pay a $200 fine and $176.50 in court costs. She has 30 days in which to appeal. "I think that political discourse is important; First Amendment matters and people of different political philosophies are going to have some difficult moments, but if we involve the government, criminalize them, then I think we're all the poorer for it." Brown told reporters. "We fully intend to appeal, and that appeal will be successful." Brown further said that the victim was "disingenuous" in making accusations against his client, adding about the victim: "Her hands aren't clean." Prussman declined to comment. Of interest: Poconos NAACP leader talks 'Moms for Liberty' as local harassment case moves forward Moms for Liberty/Stop Moms for Liberty The private Facebook page for the Monroe County chapter of Moms for Liberty states: "Moms for Liberty welcomes all that have a desire to stand up for parental rights at all levels of government. We, as a group, are dedicated to fighting for the survival of America by unifying, educating and empowering parents to defend their parental rights at all levels. Together we will stand to change the future for our children." The chapter, which has 383 Facebook members, was organized July 21, 2021. The private Facebook page for Pennsylvania Stop Moms for Liberty states: "We are working to put a stop to the hate, division, and lies spewed by the Moms for Liberty group." The Pennsylvania page for this national organization has 1,299 Facebook members. The national Facebook page states that the organization is designed to pull together the groups nationwide who are "fighting against the takeover of our public school system by Moms for Liberty". This article originally appeared on Pocono Record: Poconos Moms for Liberty chairperson guilty in harassment case Moscow is next, says Russian partisans who raided Belgorod Oblast RVC soldiers are standing next to an armored personnel carrier He said they have "thousands" of candidates waiting to join their ranks and will continue to raid the border until their forces are large enough to storm Moscow. "We have serious capabilities," said the Freedom of Russia Legion commander, who goes by the call sign of Caesar. He stated that his group "has mortars, armored vehicles, Stinger man-portable air defense systems, portable anti-tank systems, and a highly effective reconnaissance drone. "The Freedom of Russia Legion announced on May 22 that, together with the Russian Volunteer Corps, it had "completely liberated" the village of Kozinka in Russias Belgorod Oblast, passed the village of Gora-Podol, and began to storm the settlement of Grayvoron. Local authorities declared a "counterterrorist operation" and had most Grayvoron residents evacuated, said the governor. The Russians claimed that they killed most of the saboteurs and "pushed the rest back" to the territory of Ukraine. RDK and Legion fighters denied the losses. The RDK and Freedom of Russia Legion reported that they had advanced 42 kilometers into Russia and controlled some settlements in Belgorod Oblast for a day. The claim to have lost two people in action, with 10 others wounded. The Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine called the actions of the Freedom of Russia Legion and the RDK in Belgorod Oblast "the establishment of a security strip" to protect Ukrainians. Andriy Yusov emphasized that the raid in the Russian region was carried out exclusively by Freedom of Russia Legion and RDK fighters,who are all Russian citizens. Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to the head of the Presidents Office, also said that Ukraine had nothing to do with the actions of the RDK and the Freedom of Russia Legion in Belgorod Oblast. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Most US teachers think schools would be less safe if they were armed, survey finds Most US teachers think schools would be less safe if they were armed, survey finds The majority of American teachers think arming themselves with guns would make schools less safe, a newly released survey of educators across the country found. It's a question floated after every school shooting that gets national attention: Would armed teachers be able to stop a mass shooter in their tracks, possibly saving many lives? There have been at least 24 shooting incidents on school campuses resulting in injury or death so far in 2023, according to a tracker by Education Week. Last week, the country marked one year since 19 students and two teachers were gunned down at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, marking the deadliest school shooting in the country since the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting in Newtown, Connecticut, nearly a decade prior. One in 5 teachers surveyed about school safety by the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corp. said they feel schools would be safer if teachers were allowed to be armed. The majority, 54%, thought schools would be made less safe if teachers could carry, and another 26% said they didn't think it would make a difference in school safety. Gun rights or gun control? Is stopping gun violence more important than gun rights? Most Americans say yes, poll shows. Still, most teachers said active shooters weren't their No. 1 safety concern in the classroom. Here's what teachers think about safety in schools, according to the survey, conducted between Oct. 25 and Nov. 14, 2022, and released on Wednesday: Hundreds of thousands of teachers would carry a gun in school if allowed, researchers estimate The percentage of teachers who said they were strongly opposed to policies allowing teachers to carry guns on campus, 44%, was far higher than the percentage who said they strongly support them, 6%, the survey found. While about 20% of the 973 teachers of kindergarten through 12th grade surveyed said they thought schools would be safer if they were allowed to carry guns on campus, 19% said they would personally be interested in carrying a gun at school. That amounts to about 550,000 teachers nationwide who would want to carry on campus, the report authors estimated based on a nationwide teacher population of about 3 million. Hoax shooting school caused chaos. Then a cop mistakenly fired a gun. It is legal for teachers to carry guns on school campuses in at least 27 states, with special permissions or in certain circumstances in some states, according to the pro-gun-control Giffords Law Center. The first of those states to pass a law allowing it was South Dakota in 2013, shortly after the Sandy Hook shooting in Connecticut and the National Rifle Association proposed allowing school personnel to carry, The New York Times reported at the time. Race, location play a factor in teachers' views of guns in schools How teachers viewed guns' role in on-campus safety was influenced by their own demographic factors and those of the school communities they worked in, study results showed. White teachers were more likely than Black teachers to say they thought teacher-carry policies would make schools safer; 21% of white teachers and just 9% of Black teachers said so in the study. Among Hispanic teachers, 15% also said teacher carry would make campuses safer. More: Teachers across US question profession, gun laws after Texas school shooting Broken down by school location, teachers who taught in schools in rural areas were also more likely to agree that teacher-carry policies would help school safety. Thirty percent of rural teachers thought so, while 16% of urban and 15% of suburban teachers agreed. When asked about whether they would personally like to carry a gun at school, male teachers (27%) were more likely than female teachers (17%) to say they would. Bullying is the top safety concern for teachers Just 5% reported that school shootings were their top safety concern. Top concerns from teachers were bullying and cyberbullying, 49%; drugs, 25%; and student fights, 17%. Their concerns varied by the age of the students taught. Middle school teachers also said self-harm was a top concern, and elementary teachers were concerned about violence against teachers by students. "Despite the prevalence of anti-bullying programs, everyday school violence is a concern for teachers," said report author Heather L. Schwartz, senior policy researcher at RAND. "Bullying, not active shooters, was teachers most common top safety concern, followed by fights and drugs. Teachers also said threats made against schools through social media caused significant disruption to education. More than one-third of the teachers surveyed, 35%, said their schools had been disrupted at least once in the 2021-22 school year by threats, which included shooting and other threats. Shootings have plagued US schools in 2023 EdWeek found that there have been 24 school shooting incidents with injuries or deaths so far this year, and 168 since 2018. These are just a few examples: Run, hide, fight: School shooter drills can be traumatic, but do they work? This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Arming teachers: Most say schools would be less safe if they had guns Micki Witthoeft, the mother of Ashli Babbitt, was arrested Tuesday in Washington on charges of simple assault and destruction of property, police said. Witthoeft, 58, allegedly scuffled with a counterprotester during a march on Monday outside the jail where many Jan. 6 defendants are being held. The counterprotester alleged in a complaint filed with police that Witthoeft pushed her and damaged her megaphone. The Daily Beast captured video from Witthoefts arrest. The outlet reported she was released later Tuesday and returned to a right-wing protest area near the jail, quipping the booking process really wasnt that bad. Here's the video taken by The Daily Beast outside of the D.C. jail tonight: pic.twitter.com/FhE3EKHgRG Zachary Petrizzo (@ZTPetrizzo) May 31, 2023 The arrest comes a day after Witthoeft participated in the march to honor her daughter. Babbitt, an Air Force veteran shot to death by a Capitol Police officer during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection as she attempted to breach the Speakers Lobby. Babbitts death has become a rallying point for far-right supporters of former President Donald Trump. Witthoeft was also arrested by the Capitol Police in January on charges she illegally blocked traffic on a roadway and failed to comply with police orders. Those charges were later dropped. Micki Witthoeft, mother of Ashli Babbitt, stands with supporters as they protest outside the US Capitol on May 29 in Washington, D.C. Micki Witthoeft, mother of Ashli Babbitt, stands with supporters as they protest outside the US Capitol on May 29 in Washington, D.C. Related... These MS Coast schools will get money from massive Juul settlement. How will it be spent? Two Mississippi Coast school districts will collect thousands of dollars from e-cigarette maker Juul this year after a federal judge approved a settlement between the company and educators across the country. Hancock County Schools will use the money to install vape detectors inside their high school and middle school campuses in Kiln, said Melissa Saucier, director of public relations for the district. The sensors should be installed by July or August in an effort to end vaping problems that have alarmed administrators and parents in recent years. Vaping has been a big issue everywhere, Saucier said. Its really easy to get your hands on them. Hancock County Schools were awarded $62,004 and will likely end up with about $40,000 after attorneys fees and court costs, Saucier told the Sun Herald on Wednesday. The Pass Christian School District is also set to collect $30,933, minus fees, as early as September after Superintendent Carla J. Evers signed a settlement agreement this spring. Pass Christian High School installed vape detectors in school bathrooms last summer. Evers said the district will use the money to recoup what they already spend on anti-vaping measures in Pass schools. The Hancock County School District central office on Highway 603 in Kiln. Juul lawsuits settled across the US The agreements are part of a $255 million settlement approved by a federal judge in San Francisco this year. That decision awarded money to thousands of school districts across the U.S. after they argued Juul marketed deceptively and harmed students. Juul and other manufacturers like it face many similar lawsuits. In April, Juul settled a case involving six states and the District of Columbia for $462 million. Days later, Juul and tobacco company Altria settled a case with Minnesota for $60.5 million. The sale and distribution of nicotine products is illegal for anyone under 21 in Mississippi and Coast schools have long warned of the threat vapes and e-cigarettes pose for students. In 2022, then-Hancock County School District Superintendent Teresa Merwin released a video warning about the dangers of illegal vaping and pleading with parents to educate their kids. When you take a puff of a vape handed to you, you have no idea what youre getting, Merwin said in the video. She said the district witnessed vaping in classrooms, bathrooms and buses even elementary schools. Some students in Hancock County schools fell ill last year after vaping THC and other synthetic chemicals, prompting schools to call medical services. Final approvals for the settlements are expected this summer. The districts could receive $2,500 to $5,000 more if the court decides to award a bonus settlement. Saucier said the vaping issue, most often seen at the middle and high school, stems from peer pressure at Hancock County schools. Its not a massive, widespread problem, she said. But it is a problem. The search for a breast cancer vaccine is very active, according to recent repots. | Adobe.com Several breast cancer vaccines are in the works, according to multiple online news resources. News and media platform Bloomberg said that the arrival of not just one but several breast cancer vaccine studies is an encouraging sign of the amazing progress researchers are making in harnessing the immune system to not just battle cancer, but prevent it in the first place. Dr. Robert Vonderheide, director of the Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine, told Time, To say that we are working on a vaccine to prevent cancers for the rest of peoples lives sounds like something from Star Wars, adding but its not a concept thats totally uncharted. Related Breast cancer Vonderheide said since breast tumors do not attract the immune system and give little immune response, developing a vaccine against breast cancer has been tricky, Time reported. Nora Disis, director of the University of Washingtons Cancer Vaccine Institute, was part of a team of researchers that tested a vaccine meant to teach the immune system to recognize a specific mutated protein that is a common driver of breast cancer, Bloomberg reported. Results found that 80% of the women in the study are alive 10 years after treatment and those researchers are starting a broader study based on these results. Time said Keith Knutson, an immunologist at Mayo Clinic, is testing a type of preventive vaccine that can target tumors directly by identifying foreign material in a tumor. Knutson and Dr. Amy Degnim, professor of surgery at Mayo Clinic, have been working on another vaccine since 2015 with recent testing specified against ductal carcinoma in situ, an early form of breast cancer, per Time. CBS News reported on Cleveland Clinics breast cancer vaccine that aims to prevent triple-negative breast cancer, one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer, with results from trials expected to arrive in late 2023. Related Vaccine predictions Disis told Bloomberg that eventually, vaccines for every type of breast cancer will be available, and she believes vaccines that can treat or prevent recurrence of the disease can be developed within the next five years. Dr. Susan Domchek, an oncologist at the University of Pennsylvania who is leading a trial of a preventive breast cancer vaccine, told Bloomberg, Making a vaccine against breast cancer is not just pie in the sky, were actually doing it. Bloomberg said, As these studies wind through the clinic, any promising data should motivate investment in an area that could bring us close to the vision of a world with a lot less cancer in it. The Deseret News reported earlier this year on a 33% decrease in U.S. cancer deaths, a drop that hasnt happened since 1991, which researchers attribute to substantial changes in cancer prevention and screening in the last decade. Police tape A murder investigation is under way after a body was found at a house in Sheffield on Tuesday. Police made the grim discovery when they searched the home on Crofton Avenue in Hillsborough around midday. Photos posted on social media showed the property cordoned off with police tape and multiple police cars parked outside. South Yorkshire police said enquiries to establish the identity of the person were ongoing. We are aware of the shock this will cause to the local community. I want to reassure you that extensive enquiries will be carried out to understand what has happened to this person and bring those responsible to justice, Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Knowles said. The investigation is in the very early stages and at this time we are unable to provide any further information as to who they are, but we are working at pace to be able to provide answers to the potential family and friends of the victim. If anyone has any information they believe could help our investigation, please get in touch. People have been encouraged to contact police by calling 101 or via online chat, quoting incident number 389 of 30 May if they have any information. 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. Tesla CEO Elon Musk spoke to Chinese industry minister Jin Zhuanglong about 'new energy vehicles' Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Chinese industry minister Jin Zhuanglong held talks on "new energy vehicles" Wednesday, Beijing said. The two "exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent connected vehicles", China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said in a readout on its website. It did not share further details. Tesla representatives did not respond to AFP requests for further information on Musk's itinerary. Musk arrived in Beijing Tuesday on his first trip to China in more than three years. China is the world's biggest electric vehicle market and Tesla announced in April it would build a second massive factory in Shanghai. That factory will be Tesla's second plant in Shanghai after Gigafactory, which broke ground in 2019. In a meeting with Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang on Tuesday, Musk said he was "willing to continue to expand its business in China", according to a foreign ministry readout. He also expressed his opposition to an economic "decoupling" between China and the United States, Beijing said. Musk's extensive business ties to China have raised eyebrows in Washington, with President Joe Biden saying in November that the executive's links to foreign countries were "worthy" of scrutiny. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday that the country welcomed visits by international executives "to better understand China and promote mutually beneficial cooperation". tjx-oho/dan Tesla CEO Elon Musk discussed electric and intelligent networked vehicles with Chinas industry minister during a Wednesday visit to Beijing. Musk and Jin Zhuanglong, the head of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, reportedly exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent networked vehicles, the ministry said in a statement, according to The Associated Press. The billionaire CEO of Twitter and SpaceX also met with Chinas commerce minister, Wang Wentao. Wang reportedly expressed Beijings support for long-term, stable development of foreign-invested enterprises in China, while Musk praised the potential of Chinas development and expressed an interest in furthering their mutually beneficial cooperation, according to a ministry statement reported by the AP. Musk next heads to Shanghai to visit his electric car companys factory in the city. His private jet has reportedly already left Beijing for the financial hub, according to Reuters. He has yet to make any public statements about the trip or post on Twitter, which is blocked in China. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. People walk past a Tesla showroom at a shopping mall in Beijing on May 31 2023. Elon Musk praised China's "vitality and promise" on Wednesday, Beijing said, during a trip to the Chinese capital in which he has met multiple government officials and reportedly declared he will expand his business there. The mercurial tycoon, one of the world's richest men, is on his first trip to China in more than three years. He met commerce minister Wang Wentao on Wednesday, praising "the vitality and potential of China's development", according to a ministry readout. Musk "expressed full confidence in the China market, and was willing to continue deepening mutually beneficial cooperation", a readout of the meeting said. He also said that "China-US relations are not a zero-sum game", it added, and thanked China for "the support and guarantees it provided for Tesla's Shanghai factory during the Covid-19 pandemic", when it was placed under strict lockdowns. Musk has extensive business interests in China and told foreign minister Qin Gang on Tuesday his firm was "willing to continue to expand its business in China", according to a foreign ministry readout. Musk and Tesla have not released any statement themselves on the trip or responded to AFP requests for comment. Chinese media reported Tesla welcomed its CEO to Beijing on Tuesday with a 16-course dinner that included seafood, New Zealand lamb and traditional Beijing-style soybean paste noodles. He also met industry minister Jin Zhuanglong in Beijing on Wednesday to discuss "the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent connected vehicles", the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said in a readout. Tesla representatives did not respond to AFP requests for further information on Musk's itinerary. China is the world's biggest electric vehicle market and Tesla announced in April it would build a second massive factory in Shanghai, after its Gigafactory that broke ground in 2019. - Deep business ties - In his meeting with Qin on Tuesday, Musk also expressed his opposition to an economic "decoupling" between China and the United States, Beijing said. "The interests of the United States and China are intertwined, like conjoined twins, who are inseparable from each other," Musk said. Musk's extensive business ties to China have raised eyebrows in Washington, with President Joe Biden saying in November the executive's links to foreign countries were "worthy" of scrutiny. He has also caused controversy by suggesting the self-ruled island of Taiwan should become part of China -- a stance welcomed by Chinese officials but which deeply angered Taipei. Critics point to the industrial ties linking Musk to China, which has increasingly fraught ties with Washington. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday the country welcomed visits by international executives "to better understand China and promote mutually beneficial cooperation". tjx-oho-reb/pbt Boston authorities say an alleged serial rapist and kidnapper has been identified after more than a decade through advanced forensic genealogy and DNA analysis. The suspect, who now reportedly works as an attorney in New York City, was arrested in New Jersey on Tuesday. Matthew J. Nilo, 35, was arrested at around 4:30 p.m. at his home in Weehawken. He formerly lived in the North End of Boston and has now been accused of sexually assaulting four women in the Terminal Street area on Aug. 18, 2007, Nov. 22, 2007, Aug. 5, 2008, and Dec. 23, 2008. Nilo, who police say could have been a college student at the time, around age 19 or 20, is charged with three counts of aggravated rape, two counts of kidnapping, one count of assault with intent to rape, and one count of indecent assault and battery. "Todays arrest is a direct result of the FBIs use of investigative genetic genealogy, a unique method used to generate new leads in unsolved sex assaults, homicides and other violent crimes," Boston FBI Special Agent In Charge Joe Bonavolonta said at a press conference Tuesday. WOMAN ACCUSED OF MURDERING HER BOSTON POLICE OFFICER BOYFRIEND BACK IN COURT, AS DEFENSE SUBPOENAS NEW WITNESSES FBI Boston Special Agent in Charge Joe Bonavolonta, Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox and Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden announced the arrest of Matthew J. Nilo, an accused serial rapist. "Immediately following his arrest, weve shared this news with the four sexual assault survivors who have been waiting years to learn the identity of their alleged assailant," Bonavolonta said. "While we know todays arrest of Mr. Nilo cannot erase the harm he allegedly inflicted upon his survivors, we believe we have removed a dangerous threat from our community." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP The Boston Globe cited a LinkedIn profile appearing to indicate that Nilo works as a cyber attorney in New York City and earned his law degree at the University of San Francisco. WCVB reported that Nilo graduated from Boston Latin School in 2006. "Honestly, very shocking," Nilos former co-worker told WCVB. "He was normal, a good-looking kid that did well at anything he put his mind to." In addition to Massachusetts and New Jersey, authorities said Nilo has lived in New York, Wisconsin, and California, and appealed to any potential additional victims to contact Boston police or the FBI. Police said some of the known victims were picked up in downtown Boston and taken to Charlestown. OHIO POLICE SEARCH FOR ANOTHER ESCAPED PRISONER AS STATE STILL REELS FROM LAST WEEK'S JAILBREAK "All four cases are DNA connected," Boston police commissioner and chief Michael Cox said. Cox credited the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative grant intended to aid in the processing of sexual assault collection kits to reduce backlogs, as helping in the investigation. He said members of the Boston Police Departments Sexual Assault Unit contacted the FBI for assistance in October. Bonovolonta said that investigators received positive confirmation of Nilos identity last month. FBI Special Agent in Charge Joe Bonavolonta announces the identification of The Lady of the Dunes murder on Oct. 31, 2022 in Chelsea, Massachusetts. Ruth Marie Terrry was found brutally killed in Provincetown beach on July 26, 1974. "Sexual assault cases are very difficult and extraordinarily challenging for our victims. Theyre also hard to solve," Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said. "This arrest also highlights the fact that investigators never stop analyzing evidence, collecting information and running down leads in order to bring dangerous offenders to justice." Bonovolonta and Cox both said investigators used the same method to identify Nilo that proved to finally crack the unrelated "Lady of the Dunes" case. Last October, law enforcement announced that a badly mutilated body found in the dunes of Provincetown, Massachusetts, in 1974 had been identified nearly 50 years later as Ruth Marie Terry, a 37-year-old Tennessee woman. NASA's Webb Telescope spots a water plume twice the length of the US, spewing from a Saturn moon that could host alien life Enceladus as seen by NASA's Cassini spacecraft (left) and the James Webb Space Telescope (right). NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute; NASA, ESA, CSA, Geronimo Villanueva (NASA-GSFC) NASA's Webb Telescope revealed just how giant the water plumes shooting out of a Saturn moon are. The water gushes 6,000 miles, or about twice the length of the US, from the moon called Enceladus. The plume comes from an underground ocean, meaning the moon could host alien life. NASA's James Webb Space Telescope spotted a gigantic water plume spewing from a Saturn moon that could host alien life. It's creating a donut of water around the ringed planet. Astronomers have previously seen water shooting from the moon, called Enceladus, but never like this. NASA's Cassini spacecraft first spotted the mysterious spray on the moon's south pole as it flew past in 2005. Before that, scientists thought Enceladus was an inert ball of ice. The plumes revealed something far more exciting: a global ocean deep below its frozen crust. That makes Enceladus one of our solar system's top candidates for alien life. The close-up Cassini images gave astronomers this vision of Enceladus: In this real image from NASA's Cassini spacecraft, backlighting from the sun spectacularly illuminates Enceladus' jets of water ice. NASA/JPL-Caltech/SSI But the James Webb Space Telescope is the most powerful observatory ever launched into space. So when scientists turned its sites to Enceladus, they saw its salty water plume at an unprecedented scale that indicates these plumes are much larger than previously thought. Webb revealed an enormous plume on Enceladus Webb discovered a 6,000-mile-long burst of water twice the length of the continental US NASA announced on Tuesday. A water vapor plume jetting from the southern pole of Saturns moon Enceladus, as captured by NASAs James Webb Space Telescope. NASA, ESA, CSA, Geronimo Villanueva (NASA-GSFC) "When I was looking at the data, at first, I was thinking I had to be wrong," Geronimo Villanueva, a scientist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and a lead author on the new Webb findings, said in a press release. "It was just so shocking to detect a water plume more than 20 times the size of the moon." The plume is long enough to stretch from Los Angeles, California, to Buenos Aires, Argentina. For comparison, Enceladus itself could fit comfortably between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The plumes are exploding off the moon's surface into space at a rate of 79 gallons per second, which could fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in just two hours, according to NASA. Enceladus formed a water donut around Saturn About 30% of the water from the plumes then feeds into a giant ring of water around Saturn, called a torus, and the rest escapes into the planet's water system. "The orbit of Enceladus around Saturn is relatively quick, just 33 hours. As it whips around Saturn, the moon and its jets are basically spitting off water, leaving a halo, almost like a donut, in its wake," Villanueva said. An illustrations shows the Webb Telescope's findings about how Enceladus feeds a donut of water around Saturn. NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Leah Hustak (STScI); Geronimo Villanueva (NASA-GSFC) "In the Webb observations, not only was the plume huge, but there was just water absolutely everywhere," Villanueva said. Saturn has at least 124 moons, and Enceladus is among its most interesting. It's about 4% the size of Earth. Any alien life in its subsurface ocean could be getting energy from deep-sea vents, using chemosynthesis rather than photosynthesis, as some deep-sea organisms do on Earth. Read the original article on Business Insider National Donut Day is coming on Friday June 2 and if you ever needed an excuse to chow down on doughnuts in Lexington, this is it. The holiday was started in 1938 by The Salvation Army as a fundraiser and to honor the women who served doughnuts to traveling World War I soldiers. But really every day is pretty much doughnut day. According to IBISworld.com, the doughnut market in 2022 topped $7.3 billion and is growing. Sadly, one of the Lexingtons biggest names in doughnuts will be missing this year: Magees Bakery, known for its hand-made baked goods with rich, thick chocolate and caramel icing, closed in May after 67 years in business. Whether you plan to celebrate by bringing a box of baked goodies into the office or enjoying them all by yourself, there are still plenty of great local options to grab a dozen in Lexington. Robin Murphy decorates strawberry sprinkle yeast donuts at Donut Days Bakery on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 in Lexington Kentucky. The bakery usually sees an influx of customers on the first Friday in June in celebration of National Donut Day. Donut Days Bakery Donut Days at 185 Southland Dr. has been a Lexington fixture for decades and is known for producing a tremendous volume of quality doughnuts and for being open even when it snows. They will have the regular special: Buy 10 doughnuts and get two free. Open Monday-Friday 6 a..m.-6 p.m., Saturday 6 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Donut World Donut World, which recently opened at 1395 W. Main St., has at least 22 different doughnuts daily, although the favorite is the white glazed and white cream-filled. Open 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Doughdaddys Doughnuts Doughdaddys are sold out of a gas station at 3325 Lexington Rd. in Versailles and are worth the short drive. They sometimes have specials for National Donut Day. Open Monday 6 a.m.-11 p.m., Tuesday 6 a.m.-9 p.m., Wednesday 6 a.m.-11 p.m., Thursday and Friday 5 a.m.-11 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 5 a.m.-10 p.m. Dunkin Dunkin, the national chain, has four locations in Lexington: 1306 S. Broadway, 2213 Versailles Rd., 316 E. New Circle Rd. and at Blue Grass Airport. Dunkin sometimes has National Donut Day specials. You can get doughnuts and Munchkins in a variety of flavors. Hours vary by location. Franks Donuts Franks at 549 W. Third St. has inexpensive doughnuts every day, with lots of options. They arent planning any National Donut Day specials but you can get a dozen for $9.50 plus tax any day. Open Monday-Saturday 4:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Sunday 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. Krispy Kreme National chain Krispy Kreme at 2893 Richmond Rd. often has specials or free doughnuts for National Donut Day. The store sells its signature fresh-baked glazed doughnuts as well as special limited edition fan favorites. Open Sunday-Thursday 6 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. North Lime Coffee & Donuts two locations will have specials for National Donut Day. North Lime Coffee and Donuts North Lime Coffee and Donuts has two Lexington locations and both will have specials for National Donut Day. The location in Greyline Station at 101 W. Loudon Ave Suite 160 will have blackberry filled doughnuts as the weekly special as well as glazed Sprinkle Splosion with sprinkles baked inside, gluten-free French toast and vegan glazed blueberry cake doughnuts for daily specials on June 2. Open Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Specials for the 3101 Clays Mill Rd. location were not available. Open Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. OMG Donuts OMG Donuts at 3449 Buckhorn Dr. has a variety of yeast and cake doughnuts and other pastries. Open Monday-Friday 5 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 6 a.m.-1 p.m. Parlor Doughnuts Parlor at 630 Euclid Ave. specializes in gourmet cro-nut style doughnuts and pastries. They have an extensive menu, including secret options. Open Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 5 a.m.-5 p.m. Specialty bakery Parlor Doughnuts, which has developed a following with fans, sells flaky croissant-style doughnuts, sometimes referred to as cro-nuts with special toppings. Spaldings Bakery Spaldings at 760 Winchester Rd. has been a Lexington favorite since 1929, with doughnuts making up 75 percent of their business. They will be making lots and lots of extra doughnuts but expect a line so come early. The original glazed yeast version is the most popular but they make lots of others. Open Wednesday-Saturday 6:30 a.m. to noon and Sunday 7 a.m. to noon. Spaldings Bakery hand-cut doughnuts have been a Lexington favorite for more than 80 years. The recipe for its dough or honey glaze is a family secret. Sweet Creations Bakery Sweet Creations, 2312 Palumbo Dr., does a little bit of everything, including doughnuts. Open Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sunday noon to 4 p.m. Downtown Asian dining spot to get new sister restaurant with Pad Thai, Bangkok ribs F-5N Sundowner The pilot of a U.S. Navy F-5N Tiger II adversary jet has been rescued after ejecting from their plane off Key West, Florida, this morning. An initial statement from the Navy indicates that the pilot ejected around 25 miles from Boca Chica Field, at around 9:20 A.M. The pilot was recovered from the water by an MH-60S Seahawk search and rescue helicopter assigned to Key West. The helicopter transported the pilot to Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, for further evaluation, as seen in the video below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LblYAcgywI4 The Navy is yet to provide the pilots identity and current condition but did confirm that the pilot was from the Fighter Squadron Composite 111 (VFC-111), known as the Sun Downers, a U.S. Navy Reserve adversary squadron based at Naval Air Station Key West. https://twitter.com/MB_EjectEject/status/1663947570089951232?s=20 These adversary aircraft are used primarily to simulate low-to-mid-level threats during dissimilar air combat training. As well as VFC-111, these jets also serve with VFA-204 River Rattlers, based at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, Louisiana, another Navy Reserve unit that specializes in red air. Meanwhile, Marine Corps examples are operated by Marine Fighter Training Squadron 401 (VMFT-401) at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona. An F-5N from Marine Fighter Training Squadron 401. U.S. Marine Corps/Sgt. Kimberlyn Adams The F-5Ns are going through an upgrade to make them similar to the private red air contractor Tactical Air's F-5AT configuration, which includes substantial enhancements you can read about here. The Navy has stated that the cause of the incident will be investigated. This is a developing story and will be updated once more details become available. Contact the author: thomas@thedrive.com Editors Note: This story was updated after the Navy corrected itself to say Saunders is the first active duty gunners mate to advance. For the first time, the Navy has tapped an active duty female gunners mate for promotion to master chief petty officer. Senior Chief Gunners Mate Jessica Saunders, who enlisted in the Navy in 2002, screened for E-9 on May 23, according to the Navy. This is not only a significant milestone for my naval career, but also for all Sailors, Saunders said in a Navy news release. The glass ceiling is shattered! From the day I enlisted, I understood that with hard work, motivational leadership and a warfighter mentality, I could achieve my goals and help better our Navy for future generations. This sailor is the first woman to serve as chief of the boat Gunners mates are responsible for the operation and maintenance of missile launch systems, underwater explosive weapons, gun mounts and other ordnance equipment. Saunders has served aboard the fast combat support ship Sacramento, the destroyer Cole, and the cruisers Cowpens and Lake Champlain. Other assignments include serving with Naval Air Station Sigonellas weapons department, Naval Station Mayport Security Detachment, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One, and Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. She became an ammunition supply administration and ordnance officer instructor and ETD departmental leading petty officer at Surface Combat Systems Training Command San Diego in February. Back in the 1990s when I reported aboard my first ship as gunnery officer, there were no females at that time in the armory, said Capt. Justin Long, commanding officer of the San Diego training command. As I retire later this summer from the Navy, Im so proud to see outstanding Sailors and leaders, like GMCS Saunders, at the highest levels of their communities. Saunders selection comes after the Navy revamped promotions to master chief petty officer this spring, when it unveiled the Senior Enlisted Marketplace that aims to eliminate gaps at sea. The screening board evaluates board-eligible E-8s who, if selected, will receive access to the marketplace to apply for a qualified billet. Sailors have 24 months to enter one of the 10 MyNavy Assignment cycles to apply for any jobs in the marketplace aligned with their ratings. Detailers will coordinate billet alignment and complete additional matching for the sailors next assignment. We are completely transforming the way were doing business, Force Master Chief Chris Detje with Navy Personnel Command told reporters this month. Youre gonna get the right person, at the right place, at sea, in critical billets in a timely manner. This is groundbreaking. There were 9,000 sea-duty gaps, or empty billets, within operational units as of November 2022, the Navy previously told Navy Times. The number of operational sea duty gaps fluctuates based on permanent change of stations, ship decommissioning, or ships moving into a maintenance availability. Republican U.S. Reps. Patrick McHenry and Dan Bishop have opposing views of a bill meant to save the U.S. from defaulting on its debts, which economists say would almost certainly cause economic catastrophe. McHenry, from Lincoln County, was confident Wednesday night that the bill he sponsored to extend the debt ceiling through Jan. 1, 2025, would pass. But Bishop, who is from Charlotte and is McHenrys neighbor to the south, worked to ensure that didnt happen. The bill ultimately passed the House with a 314-117 vote. Thirteen of 14 members of the North Carolina delegation approved the bill, though Rep. Deborah Ross was absent due to illness. Bishop was the only North Carolina member to oppose the bill. This is what it looks like when the uniparty cartel sells out the American people. #NoDeal, Bishop tweeted shortly after the vote. The bill now moves to the Senate, which expects to take it up as early as Thursday. For weeks, McHenry was part of negotiations with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, Rep. Garret Graves, a Republican from Louisiana, and the Biden administration to come up with a bill to extend the debt ceiling through Jan. 1, 2025. Without a bill, the U.S. will breach its debts on June 5, for the first time in the countrys history. But on Saturday, when McCarthy and President Joe Biden announced they had reached an agreement and a bill would be released the following day, Bishop immediately took to Twitter to oppose the bill. House Republicans met Saturday night to go over what the bill would include. The House Freedom Caucus, the far-right faction of Republican representatives, learned that many of their requests for the bill went unfulfilled. By Tuesday, Bishop was calling the bill a betrayal by McCarthy and McHenry. He went as far as suggesting McCarthy be removed from his role as House speaker. I think its wrongheaded, McHenry said Wednesday. Im disappointed in his statements, but the fact is we have a negotiated outcome. His goals and my goals are the same. Among those, McHenry said, are more fiscal restraint and preventing the country from going bankrupt. He added that no matter what, debt was going to happen, but the bill adds conservative reform and fiscal restraint. What I believe is that this bill will make things better, not worse, McHenry said. And I think its a worthy bill to support because its better than doing nothing. The North Carolina General Assemblys chief advocate for legalizing medical marijuana in the state revealed publicly on Tuesday how he smoked pot over 20 years ago to withstand discomforts of intense chemotherapy during a fight with cancer. Sen. Bill Rabon of Brunswick County has been working for years on a measure that lays out a structure for patients with serious and life-ending illnesses to lawfully obtain cannabis and smoke or consume it to gain relief. Legislative opponents of the idea fewer than in previous years but still a significant bloc argue that marijuana can lead to medical harm, only masks symptoms and would lead to making recreational use lawful. PREVIOUS STORIES: Rabon had described himself as a colon cancer survivor, but had been reticent on many details, particularly whether he had used marijuana, until pitching his bill in the House Health Committee three months after it passed the full Senate. The veterinarian recalled taking a few puffs at home after days of tremendous nausea at work to get through to the next day. Ive told it many, many times privately, and I have no shame in saying, you know this is what you will do in order to stay alive, Rabon told reporters after the meeting by the committee, which didnt vote on the measure Tuesday. The bill would allow physicians to certify in writing that the health benefits of using marijuana by a patient outweighs the risks. Patients with over a dozen conditions could qualify such as cancer, epilepsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and post-traumatic stress disorder as well as those with terminal illnesses or who are receiving hospice care. A proposed state commission would award licenses to 10 entities that would grow cannabis, process it and sell it each with up to eight sales centers. Sen. Rabon, now 71, said he was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer at age 48. After surgery, Rabons oncologist said that he had 18 months to live. Rabon was dissatisfied with chemotherapy treatment after three months. Rabon recalled how the oncologist said a more aggressive form of treatment would make him real sick, and told him he needed to get some good marijuana. Rabon said he didnt do drugs but was worried and desperate. He said he told his local police chief and sheriff that Im going to have to buy drugs illegally to stay alive. He never had to Rabon said pot would show up in his mailbox as needed. Having access to the tokes at home is the only reason Im alive today, he told the committee. I know that tens of thousands of people in the state would benefit just as I did if the medical marijuana bill became law, he added. Holly Joy McCabe of Brain Body Speak and Zen in a Bottle says the impact of legalization will be far-reaching for people with chronic and acute diseases. Cannabis is incredibly beneficial because it helps nausea, it helps the healing process, it helps relaxation, she said. Its helping regulate you so that you can process through anything, helping you heal and helping your symptoms. David Evans, the head of North Carolinians Against Legalizing Marijuana, said hes had cancer three times and sympathizes with anyone with a serious illness. But we do not decide medicine in the United States by anecdote or by stories. We decide it based on science, Evans told the committee. All of these conditions have very weak evidence that marijuana may be helpful. Qualified patients who are at least 21 and their caregivers would have to receive registration cards from the state to buy cannabis at a center. Licensees would have to send 10% of their monthly revenues to the state. A nearly identified medical marijuana bill from Rabon passed the Senate in June 2022 but stalled in the House. The current years Senate bill would have to clear three House committees before reaching the chamber floor in the final weeks of this years chief legislative work session. Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper already has expressed interest in authorizing medical pot if a final bill comes to his desk. House Health Committee members had several questions on Tuesday about how the qualifying illnesses are chosen and whether cannabis distribution could be limited to non-smoking forms only. Others expressed interest in advancing the measure. Thirty-eight states and the District of Columbia allow the medical use of cannabis products, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. (WATCH BELOW: Contractor has marijuana shipped to Gastonia CarMax, police say) (This May 31 story has been refiled to fix the temperature to -22F, instead of 88F, in paragraph 2) By Gopal Sharma KATHMANDU (Reuters) - A Malaysian climber narrowly survived after a Nepali sherpa guide hauled him down from below the summit of Mount Everest in a "very rare" high altitude rescue, a government official said on Wednesday. Gelje Sherpa, 30, was guiding a Chinese client to the 8,849 metre (29,032 feet) Everest summit on May 18 when he saw the Malaysian climber clinging to a rope and shivering from extreme cold in the area called the "death zone", where temperatures can dip to minus 30 degrees Celsius (-22F) or lower. Gelje hauled the climber 600 metres (1,900 feet) down from the Balcony area to the South Col, over a period of about six hours, where Nima Tahi Sherpa, another guide, joined the rescue. "We wrapped the climber in a sleeping mat, dragged him on the snow or carried him in turns on our backs to camp III," Gelje said. A helicopter using a long line then lifted him from the 7,162-metre (23,500 feet) high Camp III down to base camp. "It is almost impossible to rescue climbers at that altitude," Department of Tourism official Bigyan Koirala told Reuters. "It is a very rare operation." Gelje said he convinced his Chinese client to give up his summit attempt and descend the mountain, saying it was important for him to rescue the climber. "Saving one life is more important than praying at the monastery," said Gelje, a devout Buddhist. Tashi Lakhpa Sherpa of the Seven Summit Treks company, which provided logistics to the Malaysian climber, declined to name him, citing his client's privacy. The climber was put on a flight to Malaysia last week. Nepal issued a record 478 permits for Everest during this year's March to May climbing season. At least 12 climbers have died the highest number for eight years, and another five are still missing on Everest's slopes. (Reporting by Gopal Sharma; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo signed legislation late Tuesday that protects abortion rights for out-of-state patients seeking care in the state, as well as for providers within the state. In doing so, Lombardo became one of a handful of Republican governors to move to codify abortion rights and the only swing-state GOP governor to do so in recent years. It could signal a degree of willingness within the party to moderate on an issue that has become a political liability following the Supreme Courts decision last year striking down Roe v. Wade. That decision gave states wide latitude to set abortion policy. Abortion is already legal in Nevada under a voter referendum passed decades ago. The new bill signed by Lombardo effectively put into law an executive order signed last year by then-Gov. Steve Sisolak the Democrat whom Lombardo narrowly defeated in November. That order banned Nevada officials and agencies from helping with investigations conducted by other states into their own residents whod sought abortion care in Nevada. The bill also barred state medical boards, commissions and licensing committees from disciplining or disqualifying physicians in the state who provide abortion care. During the campaign, Lombardo often made contradictory statements about his stance on specific issues related to abortion. The Republican said that his personal belief is pro-life and that he would support a voter referendum changing state law to ban abortion after the 13th week of pregnancy. However, he also repeatedly acknowledged that abortion was legal under Nevada law until the 24th week of pregnancy. In addition, Lombardo said at one point during the campaign that he would repeal Sisolaks executive order on abortion, only to reverse that position as well. Lombardo joins a small group of Republican governors including Phil Scott of Vermont and Charlie Baker of Massachusetts, who left office in January who in recent years have enacted laws enshrining abortion protections in their states. His decision to sign the bill also highlights the challenges the Republican Party broadly faces regarding reproductive rights. Following the Supreme Courts decision last summer to strike down federal abortion rights, Republicans have struggled on the issue. Polling shows that voters broadly favor abortion protections which Democrats put at the center of their successful bid to keep the U.S. Senate and key governorships last year. While the party lost control of the House, it was by a significantly smaller margin than had been expected. The trend persisted into this year, when a liberal Wisconsin judge made abortion rights a centerpiece of her campaign for the state Supreme Court and won the seat by 11 percentage points in the crucial swing state. Meanwhile, many Republicans including several running for president in 2024 have pushed stricter abortion bans, or proposed bans. Back in Nevada, the state Republican Party tweeted last month, when the bill advanced through the Democratic-controlled state Senate with the support of two Republican legislators, that it was horrified that the bill passed with any GOP backing at all. A spokesperson for the Nevada Republican Party did not immediately respond to questions from NBC News regarding Lombardos decision to sign the bill. Lombardos decision drew plaudits from Democrats in the state, as well as state and national abortion rights groups though many did not mention him by name. Others aimed their praise more directly at Nevada Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro, a Democrat who sponsored the bill in the chamber. "The vast majority of Nevadans and all Americans support abortion access and reproductive freedom. GOP politicians like Gov. Lombardo know this is true. Signing this legislation into law wasnt just the right thing to do, it was the only thing to do to align with the will of Nevada voters," NARAL Pro-Choice America Southwest Regional Director Caroline Mello Roberson said in a statement to NBC News. Its official! Gov. Lombardo signed SB131 into law! tweeted Planned Parenthood Votes Nevada, the political arm in Nevada of the national reproductive rights group. The group added that it was grateful to Cannizzaro and her fellow legislators for leading the effort to protect Nevadas abortion providers and out-of-state patients. Cannizzaro, for her part, praised Lombardo in a tweet, writing, I want thank him for following through on his commitment to ensure that Nevada wont participate in prosecutions of women who come here to exercise their reproductive rights. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Rossi's full extradition hearing is scheduled to begin on 26 June A prison guard has been suspended for alleged religiously-motivated abuse against US fugitive Nicholas Rossi, a court has been told. Rossi - who insists on using the name Arthur Knight - is wanted in America accused of rape. US authorities are seeking his extradition and say he faked his own death and fled to Scotland. The 35-year-old has been held in HMP Edinburgh since his bail was revoked. On Wednesday the city's sheriff court heard claims about his treatment in the prison. Rossi's advocate Neil Shand told Sheriff Norman McFadyen that a number of incidents were said to have taken place inside the jail, including "chanting and name calling" directed towards his client. During the preliminary extradition hearing, Mr Shand said a prison guard had been suspended for calling Rossi "a name relating to his religious practice". It was further described as a "religious slur". Rossi has said he has converted to Judaism behind bars, previously describing himself as "Anglo-Catholic". Mr Shand said Rossi had made a complaint about three prison staff over an incident which was alleged to have occurred last week. He said another inmate had said Rossi has been the victim of abuse from "prisoners and from prison staff". The hearing was held at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday Rossi, whose wife Miranda Knight attended court, was expected to appear by video link but did not appear. Mr Shand said: "The information passed from the prison is that he declined to make himself available and go to the room which the video link takes place." The court heard Rossi had applied for an electronic monitoring assessment, but this was declined by Sheriff McFadyen. During the application for the assessment, as well as his treatment in prison, the court was also told of the wheelchair user's failing mental and physical health. Mr Shand also said his client's blood oxygen levels were below 90%. Rossi, who insists he is really an Irish orphan called Arthur Knight, is potentially facing extradition to the US At the previous hearing in the case, the court set deadlines for all expert reports to be submitted. But the psychiatric report is still to be handed over and the firm responsible has been set a deadline of next week. Prosecutor Colin Edward said there were now "very tight time-scales", with just weeks left until Rossi's full extradition hearing is scheduled to begin on 26 June. Rossi has claimed to be the victim of mistaken identity and that he is an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight. He also said he had been given distinctive tattoos matching those on the arms of Rossi while he was lying unconscious in hospital after receiving Covid treatment, in an attempt to frame him. But a sheriff ruled in November that he is Rossi. It is alleged that Rossi faked his own death in 2020 and fled to the UK to evade prosecution for rape. He was arrested in December 2021 in Glasgow after becoming seriously unwell from Covid. A Scottish Prison Service spokesman said: "An allegation has been made and is currently under investigation. It would therefore be inappropriate to comment further. "We expect the highest standards of behaviour from all our staff, and where they fall short we have procedures in place to deal with this. "All individuals in our care have the same right to legal representation and we have procedures in place to facilitate this." A 2 a.m. drive-by shooting that left six people wounded at a Florida lounge was prompted by a nightclub rivalry, Orange County detectives have learned. It happened Oct. 29 during a show at the Toxic Lounge in Orlando, and all six victims survived, officials said. The motive was revealed when Orange County detectives arrested Cristian Burgos, who was connected to a rival nightclub that was outbid by Toxic Lounge to host a rapper from Puerto Rico. Burgos, 25, faces six counts of attempted murder, Orange County Sheriff John Mina said during a May 30 news conference. The suspect faces an additional charge of shooting into an occupied dwelling in connection with a drive-by shooting later that morning at the Euphoria Hookah Lounge in Orlando, officials said. Numerous tips led to detectives to suspect Burgos, who was already in the Seminole County Jail on federal weapons charges,officials said. Burgos also faces a homicide charge in connection with an attempted robbery in Kissimmee, officials said. The Oct. 29 shooting centered on competition over which venue would host a show by rapper Yovngchimi, Det. Robert Gautam said. Toxic Lounge came out on top, and Yovngchimi was set to perform the night of the shooting, he said. The name of the other lounge was not released. Investigators say the drive-by shooting at the Euphoria Hookah Lounge occurred because it was hosting an after party for the Yovngchimi show, officials said. No one was hit by gunfire at the Euphoria Hookah Lounge. Investigators learned Burgos could be placed at the scene of both shootings, officials said. He was also found in possession of an AR-15-style rifle that was used in the Toxic Lounge drive-by shootings, the sheriffs office said. The wounded at Toxic Lounge included a woman who was struck in the head, officials said. Six people were struck by gunfire at the Toxic nightclub, and apparently there were a lot more people there, so we could have had multiple killings. ... The injuries were serious, Mina said. Its extremely reckless, extremely dangerous and evil to shoot a weapon like an AR-15 into a crowd or into a nightclub like that. Georgia store clerk shoots man 8 times, ending two-state crime spree, Florida cops say 13-year-old boy shot Florida cop, sheriff says. Police shot him back Roving gunfight erupts as people in cars begin firing at each other, Florida cops say Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haleys husband will set out on a deployment with the South Carolina National Guard to Africa in the coming weeks, according to a person familiar with the deployment. Michael Haleys deployment with the states National Guard will be in support of the United States Africa Command. He will likely remain on deployment through the spring of 2024. Our family, like every military family, is ready to make personal sacrifices when our loved one answers the call. We could not be prouder of Michael and his military brothers and sisters, Nikki Haley said in a statement Wednesday. Their commitment to protecting our freedom is a reminder of how blessed we are to live in America. Michael Haley is currently a major in the South Carolina National Guard. He joined the military branch in 2006 as an officer. In 2013, he deployed to Afghanistans Helmand Province. His deployment comes as Nikki Haley continues to barnstorm through early presidential nominating states as a part of her presidential campaign. Haley will attend Sen. Joni Ernsts (R-Iowa) annual Roast and Ride event with a number of the other Republican presidential hopefuls Saturday and will participate in a CNN town hall Sunday. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Few lawyers would be foolish enough to let an AI make their arguments, but one already did, and Judge Brantley Starr is taking steps to ensure that debacle isn't repeated in his courtroom. The Texas federal judge has added a requirement that any attorney appearing in his court must attest that "no portion of the filing was drafted by generative artificial intelligence," or if it was, that it was checked "by a human being." Last week, attorney Steven Schwartz allowed ChatGPT to "supplement" his legal research in a recent federal filing, providing him with six cases and relevant precedent all of which were completely hallucinated by the language model. He now "greatly regrets" doing this, and while the national coverage of this gaffe probably caused any other lawyers thinking of trying it to think again, Judge Starr isn't taking any chances. At the federal site for Texas' Northern District, Starr has, like other judges, the opportunity to set specific rules for his courtroom. And added recently (though it's unclear whether this was in response to the aforementioned filing) is the "Mandatory Certification Regarding Generative Artificial Intelligence." Eugene Volokh first reported the news. All attorneys appearing before the Court must file on the docket a certificate attesting either that no portion of the filing was drafted by generative artificial intelligence (such as ChatGPT, Harvey.AI, or Google Bard) or that any language drafted by generative artificial intelligence was checked for accuracy, using print reporters or traditional legal databases, by a human being. A form for lawyers to sign is appended, noting that "quotations, citations, paraphrased assertions, and legal analysis" are all covered by this proscription. As summary is one of AI's strong suits, and finding and summarizing precedent or previous cases is something that has been advertised as potentially helpful in legal work, this may end up coming into play more often than expected. Whoever drafted the memorandum on this matter at Judge Starr's office has their finger on the pulse. The certification requirement includes a pretty well informed and convincing explanation of its necessity (line breaks added for readability): These platforms are incredibly powerful and have many uses in the law: form divorces, discovery requests, suggested errors in documents, anticipated questions at oral argument. But legal briefing is not one of them. Heres why. These platforms in their current states are prone to hallucinations and bias. On hallucinations, they make stuff up even quotes and citations. Another issue is reliability or bias. While attorneys swear an oath to set aside their personal prejudices, biases, and beliefs to faithfully uphold the law and represent their clients, generative artificial intelligence is the product of programming devised by humans who did not have to swear such an oath. As such, these systems hold no allegiance to any client, the rule of law, or the laws and Constitution of the United States (or, as addressed above, the truth). Unbound by any sense of duty, honor, or justice, such programs act according to computer code rather than conviction, based on programming rather than principle. Any party believing a platform has the requisite accuracy and reliability for legal briefing may move for leave and explain why. In other words, be prepared to justify yourself. While this is just one judge in one court, it would not be surprising if others took up this rule as their own. While as the court says, this is a powerful and potentially helpful technology, its use must be at the very least clearly declared and checked for accuracy. No, Rep. Swalwell is not facing charges for lying to Congress | Fact check The claim: Rep. Eric Swalwell faces charges for lying to Congress A May 25 Facebook video says Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, is in trouble for his behavior in Congress. "'THEY DEFUND F.BI (sic) Swalwell DESTROYS his career after lying to Jim Jordan...faces CHARGES INSTANTLY," reads the video's caption. The video was shared more than 300 times in six days. Follow us on Facebook! Like our page to get updates throughout the day on our latest debunks Our rating: False The video is miscaptioned. It shows Swalwell speaking at a House Judiciary Committee hearing. There is no evidence Swalwell is facing charges for lying during the hearing. No evidence Swalwell faces criminal charges The video shows a portion of a Feb. 28 meeting of the House Judiciary Committee, which is chaired by Jordan, a Republican from Ohio. The hearing involved the markup of the judiciary authorization and oversight plan. At no point in the clip is Swalwell accused of lying, nor is there any credible report from any agency or media outlet that he will face criminal charges. Swalwell was among multiple federal and local officials tied to an intelligence operative for China who ended up volunteering for him. He never faced charges for it, and the House Ethics Committee closed an investigation into Swalwell on May 23 without finding wrongdoing. Fact check: Post wrongly claims new House reimbursement policy circumvents Constitution USA TODAY has debunked numerous posts that pair false captions with videos of politicians or cable news programming, a type of misinformation known as "false framing." Mike Caulfield, a research scientist at the University of Washingtons Center for an Informed Public, previously told USA TODAY the technique works in two ways. First, users tend to trust a post that features authentic footage from what they recognize as a credible source. It also exploits how users often scroll past the video with the sound off, never realizing the caption doesnt match what the video shows. USA TODAY reached out to the social media user who shared the video for comment and 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 electronic newspaper replica here. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: False claim Swalwell faces charges for lying to Congress | Fact check Nokia to modernize the Internet network The joint project aims to modernize the internet networks in these areas, where daily shelling can leave people without communication, often from pieces of shrapnel hitting internet cables on poles. Read also: Ukrnafta plans to launch gas station network, double production According to the ministry, 20% of Ukraine was occupied and needs a full restoration of telecommunication infrastructure. As part of the project, the telecom equipment will be upgraded, switching to independent power sources more protected and resilient to shelling and power outages with the cables laid underground. The project will begin in Kherson Oblast, with one of the villages, Posad-Pokrovskoe, currently having only Starlink internet access. The first stage will be assessing the scope of destruction, followed by designing modernized networks, construction, and equipment upgrades. Read also: ICC team arrives in Kherson to document Russian war crimes "After the pilot launch, we will scale the initiative," said the ministry. 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 American Airlines workers picket at O'Hare International Airport on November 15, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. Scott Olson/Getty Images Noncompete clauses likely violate federal labor law, NLRB's general counsel wrote Tuesday. The clauses limit workers' ability to organize and fight for improved conditions, she wrote. Workers who can show they were harmed by such provisions should be compensated, she argued. Companies that force workers to sign "noncompete" clauses are likely breaking the law, infringing not just on those employee's freedom to find a better job but their ability to defend themselves and their colleagues at their current workplace, the top lawyer for the National Labor Relations Board said this week, marking a shift in policy under President Joe Biden that could impact millions of Americans. In a memo addressed to NLRB's regional staff, General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo, appointed by Biden in 2021, wrote that noncompete clauses which generally prevent people from immediately moving to one of their employer's rivals "tend to chill" workers' rights under federal law, specifically Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act, which protects the ability to collectively organize and agitate for improved working conditions. A person barred from moving to another company in their chosen profession, at least for a set amount of time, is less likely to fight for change at their current employer, Abruzzo argued in the memo, issued Tuesday, knowing that could well make them a target for termination; employers likewise have little reason to fear that disgruntled workers will be snatched up by a competitor, thus reducing the latter's bargaining power. "[W]orkers know that they will have greater difficulty replacing their lost income if they are discharged for exercising their statutory rights to organize and act together to improve working conditions," Abruzzo said in a statement. A person who cannot easily find another job is not well-positioned to threaten a bad employer with a potential resignation, for example. According to Abruzzo, there are some circumstances where employers may indeed have the right to insist on a noncompete clause, such as prohibiting an employee from having a managerial or ownership interest in a competitor. But, in general, she is urging NLRB staff to not only reject such clauses but, in disputes where they come up, make employers fully compensate those employees who "can demonstrate that they lost other opportunities." Criticism from across the aisle Worker advocates have long maintained that noncompete clauses are an unjust infringement on liberty that reduces employees' earning potential. Najah Farley, a senior staff attorney at the National Employment Law Project, has traced the provisions back to the days of slavery, "when former owners of enslaved people used noncompetes to keep freed Black workers working for them and maintain the master-slave relationship." Several largely Democratic states, such as California, Massachusetts, and Illinois, have in recent years moved to ban them at the state level. But noncompete clauses have also attracted critics on the right. Writing for the American Enterprise Institute, a conservative think tank, then-visiting fellow John Lettieri argued in a 2020 report that the provisions "reduce overall dynamism in the economy" and are "negatively associated with wage growth, worker mobility, startup rates, and innovation activity." The criticism from both sides of the political spectrum comes as noncompete clauses have expanded from high-salary workers in fields such as technology and finance to lower-wage professions, such as fast food. Currently, about one in five US workers are subject to noncompete clauses, according to the Federal Trade Commission, which in January proposed a new federal rule that would prohibit most noncompete clauses that prevent workers from taking other jobs or starting a similar business, as Insider's Juliana Kaplan reported. That proposed rule, which will be subject to a legal challenge if and when it is finalized, came after the White House encouraged the commission to tackle noncompete clauses, framing them as a barrier to healthy competition and wage growth. Have a news tip? Email this reporter: cdavis@insider.com Read the original article on Business Insider SEOUL, South Korea North Korea said Wednesday it failed to launch its first spy satellite into space, in a blow to the nuclear-armed states efforts to strengthen its military capabilities amid growing tensions with its neighbors and the United States. Pyongyang said it would soon try another launch after learning what went wrong to send the rocket plunging into the sea following liftoff. It was an unusually frank acknowledgment of failure by Kim Jong Uns regime, but the attempted launch sparked alarm among its neighbors, with rare emergency alerts and evacuation warnings rattling people in South Korea and Japan. The newly developed Chollima-1 rocket, which was carrying the Malligyong-1 spy satellite, was launched as scheduled at 6:27 a.m. local time (5:27 p.m. ET Tuesday) from the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in the countrys northwest, according to the North Korean state news agency KCNA. It then fell into the sea off the west coast of the Korean Peninsula after losing thrust due to the abnormal starting of the second-stage engine, it said. North Koreas National Aerospace Development Administration said it would investigate what happened and address any shortcomings before it carries out another launch as soon as possible, KCNA said. South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said it was recovering potential wreckage from the vehicle from waters about 124 miles west of the South Korean island of Eocheong. Photos shared by the South Korean National Defense Ministry showed some of the debris that had been retrieved. North Korea failed Wednesday in an effort to launch its first spy satellite into space, state media reported, in a blow to the nuclear-armed states efforts to strengthen its military capabilities amid growing tensions with the United States and its neighbors. (South Korea Defense Ministry / AP) In a trilateral phone call, the U.S., Japan and South Korea strongly condemned the launch, which was based on ballistic missile technology and violated United Nations Security Council resolutions. The three countries are closely monitoring the situation with a high sense of alertness, the Japanese Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement summarizing the call. South Korea and Japan said they were monitoring for possible additional launches. In response to the launch, loudspeakers and text messages urged residents of South Koreas capital, Seoul, to prepare to evacuate, but the countrys Interior and Safety Ministry later said that was an error. Jamie Park, 21, said her family woke up to emergency alerts on their phones, as well as announcements on public loudspeakers. My mom told all of us to get dressed and gather all our important things like passports and laptops so that we can evacuate, she told NBC News. The family spent about 40 minutes watching the news on television until they were sure the danger had passed. I know not everyone took it seriously as it isnt the most uncommon thing, but waking up to it suddenly definitely stirred things up, Park said. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon apologized for the confusion but said the alert had been sent out of an abundance of caution, noting that unlike on previous occasions, North Korea launched toward the south rather than the east. Japan also issued an emergency warning in the southern prefecture of Okinawa, but it was lifted later. North Korea said Tuesday that it planned to launch what it said was a military spy satellite between Wednesday and June 11, in part to monitor what KCNA called the dangerous military acts of the U.S. and its vassal forces. Last week, the U.S. and South Korean militaries held large-scale live-fire exercises near the border with North Korea, the first of five rounds between now and mid-June. North Korea views such exercises as a rehearsal for invasion, which the U.S. and South Korea deny. U.N. sanctions prohibit North Korea from conducting long-range and ballistic missile tests. The country has repeatedly launched such missiles anyway, including last month, when it said it tested a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile for the first time. It has also conducted six nuclear tests and is thought to be preparing for a seventh. Image: (Kyodo News via AP) North Korea and South Korea remain technically in a state of conflict, after the Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice rather than a peace treaty. South Korea, which successfully launched its first commercial-grade satellite last week, is expected to launch its own spy satellite later this year. North Koreas launch failure in no way weakens the justification for increasing trilateral cooperation among South Korea, Japan and the United States, said Leif-Eric Easley, associate professor of international studies at Ewha Womans University in Seoul. But any attempt to toughen U.N. sanctions, he said, is likely to continue to be blocked by China and Russia, both permanent members of the Security Council, who view the sanctions as ineffective. In a statement, the U.S. National Security Council called on North Korea to return to negotiations on denuclearization, which have been stalled since early 2019. The door has not closed on diplomacy but Pyongyang must immediately cease its provocative actions and instead choose engagement, spokesperson Adam Hodge said. He said the U.S. would take all necessary measures to protect the American homeland, as well as its allies South Korea and Japan. Stella Kim reported from Seoul, Arata Yamamoto reported from Tokyo, and Jennifer Jett and Jimin Lee reported from Hong Kong. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com A rocket launched from North Korea early Wednesday morning put neighboring South Korea and Japan on high alert before ultimately ending in failure. State media reported that the rocket carrying the satellite crashed into waters off the Korean Peninsula's western coast after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages. It said scientists were examining the cause of the failure. The rocket was launched about 6:30 a.m. from the northwestern Tongchang-ri area, where North Korea's main space launch center is located, the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. South Korean media reported earlier that the presidential office had convened a security meeting after the launch. The South's Joint Chiefs of Staff on Wednesday did not immediately provide further flight details. Following the launch, officials in South Korea's capital of Seoul sent alerts over public speakers and smartphones for residents to prepare for evacuation, but there were no immediate reports of damages or disruption. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP LEADERS OF EUROPEAN UNION, SOUTH KOREA AGREE TO INCREASE PRESSURE ON RUSSIA, CONDEMN NORTH KOREA MISSILE TESTS South Korea's military said the rocket had "an abnormal flight" before it fell in the waters. It also said it bolstered its military readiness in close coordination with the United States. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that no object was believed to have reached space. Residents around Okinawa, Japan, meanwhile, were earlier being advised to take shelter. Wednesday's rocket launch came after the North announced a plan to put its first military spy satellite into orbit to monitor U.S. joint military drills with South Korea. NORTH KOREA INFANT JAILED FOR LIFE AFTER PARENTS FOUND WITH BIBLE ACCORDING TO RECENT REPORT Japan's coast guard said Monday that North Korea informed it of a plan to launch a satellite between May 31 and June 11. The coast guard issued safety warnings for ships in the area on those dates due to the possible dangers of falling debris. A satellite launch by North Korea is a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban the country from using ballistic technology because it's regarded as a cover for missile tests. National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge condemned the launch, saying it "raises tensions, and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region and beyond." "This claimed space launch involved technologies that are directly related to the DPRK intercontinental ballistic missile program. The President and his national security team are assessing the situation in close coordination with our allies and partners," he said. "We urge all countries to condemn this launch and call on the DPRK to come to the table for serious negotiations. The door has not closed on diplomacy, but Pyongyang must immediately cease its provocative actions and instead choose engagement. The United States will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and the defense of our Republic of Korea and Japanese allies." North Korea placed Earth-observation satellites in orbit in 2012 and 2016, though their capabilities have been questioned. Foreign experts have said those earlier satellites never transmitted imagery back to North Korea, and analysts say the new device displayed in state media in recent weeks appeared too small and crudely designed to process and transfer high-resolution imagery. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The truce village of Panmunjom inside the demilitarized zone (DMZ) separating the two Koreas LONDON (Reuters) - North Korean missile tests are endangering the safety of commercial shipping in busy sea lanes in northeastern Asia without enough time given for notification, several countries told a UN agency on Wednesday. Nuclear-armed North Korea's sixth satellite launch on Wednesday ended in failure, with the booster and payload plunging into the sea, but it still prompted emergency alerts and evacuation warnings in parts of South Korea and Japan. A resolution adopted by a majority of over 100 countries attending the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) security committee, "strongly" condemned the missile tests "which seriously threatened the safety of seafarers and international shipping". North Korea rejected the resolution and a paper submitted by countries including the United States, South Korea and Japan. It said in response in that the missile tests "constitute routine and planned self-defensive measures taken by a sovereign state to defend the national security". "(North Korea) is not in a position to be able to provide prior notification of its military exercises and self-defensive measures," it said a submission to the IMO committee. North Korea added that the missile launches were "based on the accurate scientific calculation and consideration of their point of impact and the routes of ships voyaging in the waters". The paper was also submitted by Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Spain, Ukraine, Britain and Vanuatu. (Reporting by Jonathan Saul; editing by Grant McCool) Flag of Norway The announced came after Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre met with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Oslo. Read also: Norway allocates over EUR 300 million in humanitarian aid to Ukraine Norway and other allies have supported Ukraine in its legitimate fight for independence and freedom from the outset, said Stre. Military support from Norway and other Western countries is essential to the Ukrainian war effort, and we will support Ukraine for as long as is necessary. Read also: Former Wagner mercenary in Norway now wants to go back to Russia The aid program will include military, humanitarian, and civilian support. The PM also pledged to increase national defense spending to at least 2% of GDP by 2026. Read also: Denmark and Norway to provide 8,000 artillery shells, Australia to supply $80 million in remote weapon systems On May 18, Norway announced that, in cooperation with the United Kingdom, it will provide Ukraine with up to eight rocket artillery systems and three counter-battery radars. 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 This Jan. 21, 2019, photo provided by the Miami Dade Department of Corrections shows Mark Allen Bartlett. Bartlett was sentenced to probation in South Florida, Tuesday, May 30, 2023, for pulling a gun and yelling racial slurs in a traffic confrontation with a group of Black teenagers protesting housing inequality on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 2019. Whats the proper sentence for a man who walked up on a group of Black teens mind their business with a gun in hand and mouth full of racial slurs? According to NBC 6 South Florida, the man guilty of this very thing escaped prison time. Mark Bartlett, 55, was accused of confronting a group of Black teens riding their bicycles in a Martin Luther King Jr. Day protest against housing inequality in 2019. Videos caught him charging toward the boys holding a handgun and yelling the n-word while they stopped traffic for the demonstration. Bartlett initially tried the good ol self-defense argument, insisting he was being held hostage in his own vehicle but Miami-Dade County Judge Alberto Milian wasnt having it. Read more Honestly, what is reasonable about climbing out of your SUV to taunt a couple of Black kids? Bartlett pleaded guilty as part of a plea deal to get of serving years in prison. I apologize for my conduct that day. I was wrong to use those words and correct the pain that my words have caused anyone. I sincerely apologize, was all he had to say for himself during the hearing and also because an apology was part of the deal. Read more from AP News: As part of a deal with prosecutors, Mark Bartlett, 55, pleaded guilty to a hate crime and aggravated assault and also agreed not to possess a firearm for a decade, the Miami Herald reported. Bartlett must also perform 300 hours of community service and take anger management classes and racial sensitivity training. Bartlett could have faced decades in prison, but Miami-Dade County Judge Alberto Milian granted Bartlett a withhold of adjudication, which means Bartlett will avoid a formal conviction. Thats not all. With permission from his probation officer, Bartlett can be temporarily released on business trips to Puerto Rico and Chicago, per NBC 6. Quite the punishment, eh? After threatening the lives of a few innocent Black kids, he gets to live his life while they live with the trauma. More from The Root Sign up for The Root's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Nova Scotia wildfire smoke not entirely to blame for poor air quality in Northeast Nova Scotia wildfire smoke not entirely to blame for poor air quality in Northeast Raging wildfires in western Canada have sent plumes of smoke across the northern United States over the past several weeks. But a new cluster of wildfires in Nova Scotia, Canada, has brought a higher concentration of smoke to parts of the Northeast this week. The recent plume of smoke, combined with the persistent high-pressure system parked over the Northeast, prompted air quality alerts for at least two states in the Northeast. On Wednesday, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a "code orange" air quality alert for all of New Jersey and southeastern Pennsylvania, including the Philadelphia area. This alert means air pollution concentration in the region may become unhealthy for sensitive groups, including young children and adults over 65. The alert warned people in sensitive groups to limit their time outdoors. But AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dan Pydynowski says the smoke alone isn't creating the poor air quality across the Northeast. Smoke from the wildfires in Nova Scotia spreading over parts of the northeastern United States. (Credit NOAA/CIRA) "Most of the wildfire smoke has been in the high levels in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic, so the greater impact on air quality [on Wednesday] and the next couple of days will likely be man-made ground pollutants [and naturally occurring pollutants] like ozone thanks to a hot, stagnant air mass," said Pydynowski. GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP The persistent high pressure that has been parked over the Northeast and Midwest this week has not only been fueling the hot, summerlike weather but also air stagnation. This snapshot captures the air quality across the northeastern United States on Wednesday morning. Poor air quality can be seen in the yellow and orange colors. Green and blue indicate better air quality. (AccuWeather) Air stagnation is a meteorological term that explains when air pollution in a certain area is built up in the atmosphere. "This usually occurs when the same air mass is parked over the same area for several days," according to the NWS glossary. "During this time, the light winds cannot 'cleanse' the buildup of smoke, dust, gases, and other industrial air pollution." Pydynowski explained that ground-level ozone is typically worse during the summer months because the amount of sunlight during the day is at its highest. Hazy skies can be seen on the New York Harbor EarthCam on Wednesday morning. (EarthCam) "Another factor is less wind, more stagnant air masses allowing the ozone to form near the surface and not be scoured out," said Pydynowski. "Winter has more wind and much shorter day lengths." The most notable impact of the wildfire smoke will be the hazy skies it will produce across the Northeast, according to Pydynowski. Sunrises and sunsets may give off a reddish hue, as well. The color of the sky has to do with how the sun's light, or wavelengths, is scattered in the atmosphere. Shorter wavelengths, such as blue, are reflected by the smoke particles. The smoke particles don't reflect the longer wavelengths, such as red. So to our eyes, the sunrise and sunset will appear a vibrant red. Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app.AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer. Chinese seed donation to help revive agriculture in flood-hit areas of Pakistan's Balochistan: official Xinhua) 09:20, May 31, 2023 A seed donation ceremony is held in Islamabad, Pakistan, on May 30, 2023. Hybrid rice seed donation from China will play a major role in rebuilding the agriculture sector of Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province, which was badly affected by devastating floods last year, a Pakistani official said on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) ISLAMABAD, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Hybrid rice seed donation from China will play a major role in rebuilding the agriculture sector of Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province, which was badly affected by devastating floods last year, a Pakistani official said on Tuesday. Addressing the seed donation ceremony, Balochistan's legislative assembly speaker Jan Muhammad Jamali said that the government and people of China extended great help to Pakistan in rehabilitation work after the flood, and through the seed donation, it will help the people who lost all their fortune in the calamity. Jamali said 85 percent to 90 percent of Balochistan was affected by the floods last year, and the donated seeds will revive rice plantations in the province, where rice is a major crop. Highlighting the friendship between the two countries, Bao Zhong, counselor of political affairs of the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, said China-Pakistan friendship is deeply embedded in the hearts of the two peoples. She said China is willing to encourage enterprises of the two countries to carry out agricultural cooperation under the framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). China is ready to share its advanced agricultural development technology and experience with Pakistan to help lift its agricultural development level, the Chinese counselor said. "China will as always help Pakistan improve the livelihood of the people of Balochistan province, promote exchanges between sister provinces and cities, and encourage the development of local industries to benefit the local people," she added. Zhou Xusheng, director of the international business department of Wuhan Qingfa Hesheng Seed Co. Ltd, which is the donor, said the Chinese company is willing to continue to provide training on hybrid rice cultivation techniques to Pakistani farmers to help increase agricultural output and their income. Launched in 2013, CPEC is a corridor linking Pakistan's Gwadar Port with Kashgar in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which highlights energy, transport, and industrial cooperation. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Patients at Compass Medical are confused and looking for answers regarding the future of their local healthcare provider after being shut out of appointments and schedules Wednesday. Compass Medical announced Wednesday evening that all their practices will immediately close and advised patients to access their local emergency rooms and urgent cares. There is no good way to share this news. We are heartbroken and truly sorry as we know the unprecedented impact on our valued patients, the healthcare company said in a statement. Donna Green told Boston 25 News that when she tried to verify a June 5 appointment, a worker told her that Wednesday is the companys last day and will be closed going forward. So now what? Where do we go from here? Green asked. Green hates what seems to be happening at Compass because she loves her doctor of three years. Im dealing with back issues right now, Im going to a pain specialist, she said. So now what. Where do you go from here? Liz Eaton is one of the thousands of patients who have relied on Compass Medical and now have more questions than answers regarding their medical care. Our medical systems gone mad, Eaton told Boston 25 News. Ive had Dr. Allard for over twenty years. The entire staff here has been such a support to my family. When I was diagnosed with cancer, my kids were little. She had an appointment with just them. After spending three days in the hospital with pneumonia Maureen Duffys wife Carol had a follow-up appointment scheduled for 8:30 Wednesday morning. When the couple called a half hour before the appointment, they were told the office is closed. I dont know if were going to find somebody, Duffy said. I mean, she needs follow-up care. At the Easton facility, a sign indicated Compass urgent care would close an hour early at 5 p.m. By the afternoon, closure was set for 3 p.m. Compass Medical operated six medical clinics south of Boston. For ten years, Compass partnered with Steward Medical to bring medical care to the South Shore. That association ended on a sour note last year. The companies sued each other over financial issues. Last October, a Boston jury found Compass guilty of fraud, awarding Steward $16.4 million. The attorney representing Steward in that case, Howard Copper of the firm Todd & Weld, LLP, tells Boston 25 News that settlement has since swelled, with interest, to at least $25 million. It remains unpaid. After a steady stream of challenges, we were ultimately forced to make the devastating decision to close all offices of Compass Medical PC, the company said in a statement. The Attorney Generals Office told Boston 25 News they were looking into reports as well before the company officially announced its closure. Our office is aware of reports that Compass Medical Group locations closed suddenly today. We are gathering information and in close communication with our partners in the Healey-Driscoll Administration, particularly the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. Affected consumers and patients are encouraged to contact the AGs office to share their concerns, said the AGs Office. Those looking to contact the Attorney Generals Office can do so by clicking this link or by calling 617-727-2200. Boston 25 News has reached out to the Executive Office of Health and Human Services but has yet to receive a response. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Nurse used stolen license to trick Indiana care homes into hiring her, feds say Using a stolen Social Security number, an Indiana woman applied for five jobs with nursing homes and assisted living facilities, according to federal authorities. In some of those applications, she also used someone elses Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) number, officials said. The woman did not have a nursing license, authorities said, but she tricked employers into hiring her. Now, the 49-year-old from Indianapolis has been indicted on five counts of Social Security number fraud, three counts of aggravated identity theft and one count of Social Security disability benefits fraud. Her defense attorney was not listed in public court records as of May 31. Authorities said the woman applied for the jobs using a stolen Social Security number between Feb. 26, 2020, and March 23, 2022. She was receiving Social Security disability insurance benefits under her true Social Security number, and she knew that those benefits would be reduced or eliminated if the Social Security Administration found out she had a job, according to a May 31 news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Indiana. Additionally, (she) knew that she might not be able to pass an employment background check if she applied to a health care facility using her true Social Security number. Four positions she applied for were LPN openings, authorities said, though she never received her nursing license in Indiana. She was hired to work as an LPN at an Indianapolis-area facility from about January 2021 through April 2021, then at a second facility from about May 2021 through November 2021, according to the release. She also worked as a memory care program coordinator from about February 2020 to April 2020, officials said. Authorities said she did not include the income she received from those jobs in her Work Activity Reports to the Social Security Administration. She has received almost $55,000 in Social Security disability benefits using her actual identity, according to the release. A jury trial is scheduled for July 31, records show. Detective uses relatives credit for lease, then skips paying rent, MA prosecutors say Seattle man used fake ID to buy trailer, then used it as mobile identity-theft lab Woman hid mother-in-laws death to steal $450,000 in retirement benefits, feds say Baker stole dead babys identity and used it for job and pandemic loans, feds say Russian occupation "authorities" are seizing real estate from Ukrainian citizens in the Crimean city of Yalta who have not obtained Russian citizenship. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook Quote: "In the temporarily occupied Yalta, Autonomous Republic of Crimea, the Russian occupation authorities are illegally seizing real estate from Ukrainian citizens who did not obtain Russian citizenship during the occupation of the peninsula." Details: According to the information of the General Staff, the occupiers are moving Russian servicemen into the seized housing. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! HILLSBOROUGH Authorities are continuing to investigate what the Somerset County prosecutor is calling a workplace accident that claimed the life of a 62-year-old Ocean County man Wednesday morning. Township police went to a Willow Road address at about 7:27 a.m. Wednesday on a report of an accident involving heavy machinery, Somerset County Prosecutor John McDonald said. Police found the man dead at the scene. No lifesaving measures could be made due to the severity of the injuries, the prosecutor said. The name of the victim was not released pending all required notifications. A postmortem examination will be performed by the New Jersey Northern Regional Medical Examiner's Office to determine a cause and manner of death. No other details of the accident were released. Detectives from the Hillsborough Township Police Department along with the Somerset County Prosecutors Office Major Crimes Unit, the Crime Scene Investigation Unit, the New Jersey Northern Regional Medical Examiners Office, and the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Safety and Compliance Enforcement Officer responded to the scene. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Somerset County Prosecutors Office Major Crimes Unit at 908-231-7100 or the Hillsborough Township Police Department at 908-369-4323 or via the STOPit app. Information can also be provided through the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477). All anonymous STOPit reports, and Crime Stopper tips will be kept confidential. Email: mdeak@mycentraljersey.com Mike Deak is a reporter for mycentraljersey.com. To get unlimited access to his articles on Somerset and Hunterdon counties, please subscribe or activate your digital account. This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Ocean County NJ man dies in Hillsborough worksite accident The Ohio Department of Transportation is seeking the publics comments on three upcoming local projects. >>PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Ohio Department of Transportation wants your comments on upcoming projects Issues the public may wish to comment on include, but are not limited to, the effect of the project on local residents, air quality, the local economy, and historic or cultural resources, according to an ODOT spokesperson. The three projects are for the following: St. Marys Indiana Avenue sidewalk- The City of St. Marys is proposing to improve pedestrian access along Indiana Avenue from Kishler Street southeast for approximately 2200 feet. It is expected to start in the summer of 2025 D07-Bridge maintenance- ODOT has proposed a project to undertake maintenance on four bridge systems and one culvert in Auglaize, Darke, Logan, and Shelby Counties. State 273 Long Island bridge replacement- ODOT is proposing replacing the existing bridge on State Route 273 over the Long Island channel at Indian Lake. Additional information on the projects is available on this website. Comments can be submitted to Tricia Bishop at 937-497-6721 or send her an email here. A man has died following an officer-involved shooting in the City of Spartanburg on Wednesday, May 31. The man, identified by the Coroner's office as Terrance Gault, 55, was pronounced dead at 1:14 p.m. following an altercation with police at a residence on Belmarc Drive in Park Hills. According to a press release sent by the Spartanburg Police Department shortly before 6 p.m., the department responded to a call for assistance from a Spartanburg County Sheriff's Deputy around 11:57 a.m. at 219 Belmarc Drive. The deputy was at the residence to serve civil papers. After SPD officers arrived, Gault exited the residence and fired a weapon, according to the release. The man ran inside and continued to shoot at the officers who took cover behind their vehicles. Officers heard an additional shot from inside the house after a brief pause in gunfire. The release states officers observed Gault on the floor suffering from "what appeared to be a gunshot wound," then entered the home to render aid until Spartanburg EMS arrived on scene. Spartanburg County Coroner Rusty Clevenger said his office was called to the scene at 2 p.m. A forensic exam is scheduled for Thursday. There is currently no additional information on the manner of death. No officers were injured during the exchange. A large police presence was reported in the area Wednesday afternoon. Police were redirecting westbound traffic on John B. White Sr. Boulevard. By 6:44 p.m., police were still present at the scene and Belmarc Drive was still blocked off. According to SPD's release, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division was requested to investigate as a standard procedure for the department. Officers involved have been placed on administrative leave with with pay while the incident is reviewed internally. Corporal John Burgess sent a response by email on behalf of the Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office late Wednesday and referred any additional inquires to SPD. "Our agency would like to thank the Spartanburg Police Department for their quick response and assistance. There will be no further comment on the incident since it's an active investigation by the State Law Enforcement Division," Corporal Burgess said in the email. Officers kill suspect in Landrum Landrum woman found dead in wheelchair, SLED investigating after suspect killed by officers SLED releases details of Monday officer involved shooting in Landrum This is the second officer-involved shooting in Spartanburg County this week. SLED released additional details Wednesday afternoon of another incident that occurred early Monday morning in Landrum. According a press release from SLED, officers with the Landrum Police Department responded to a disturbance called at an apartment complex off Randolph Avenue in Landrum just before 4 a.m. Officers found an injured woman, later identified as Shana McClain, 53, and a man armed with a knife outside of the residence. Units from the Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office, Polk County, N.C., Sheriff's Office, South Carolina Highway Patrol, Inman and Campobello police departments responded to the scene to assist. Spartanburg County Sheriff's deputies and Landrum Police officers fired at the armed individual and struck him following an encounter. The man was later identified as Freddie Edwards Jr., 58,. Both Edwards and McClain died at the scene. The investigation is on-going, according to the release. Wednesday's incident is 14th shooting involving police in SC this year Wednesday's incident in Spartanburg is the 14th officer-involved shooting in South Carolina this year, Wunderlich said. In 2022, there were 32 officer-involved shootings statewide. Spartanburg County Sheriff's Office was involved in 3 shootings in 2022. In February, SLED was called to investigate a shooting on South Carolina Avenue, where Darius L.J. Holcomb, 39, died after being shot by a Spartanburg County Sheriff's deputy. Holcomb's death is still under investigation. Check back for updates on this developing story. This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: One dead in shooting involving Spartanburg police. SLED investigating. Officials Now Say There May Be 2 People In Partially Collapsed Iowa Apartment Building A day after stating there were no known people trapped in a partially collapsed apartment building in the eastern Iowa town of Davenport, officials said Tuesday there were five people unaccounted for, two of whom they believe are still in the building. The situation puts city officials in a tight spot, forcing them to choose between sending rescue crews into a six-story apartment building could come crashing down at any moment or demolishing the building knowing its possible there are survivors inside. Following the rescue of eight people after the building partially collapsed Sunday, officials were set to demolish the building Tuesday morning. But a ninth survivor, 52-year-old Lisa Brooks, managed to call for help once her phone started working again, and rescue crews retrieved her. A worker walks by the six-story Davenport, Iowa, apartment building after it collapsed. A worker walks by the six-story Davenport, Iowa, apartment building after it collapsed. The immediate question I know people are asking is, how did she get there? And why wasnt she found earlier? I am totally transparent with you I do not know, we do not know, but understand, please, that I and the city is committed to finding out why, Davenport Mayor Mike Matson said at a Tuesday news conference. Officials added that in evaluating the building for survivors, they used specially trained service animals, drones and thermal imaging to determine that no viable signs of life were in the building before Brooks was found. Were very sympathetic to the possibility that theres two people , Davenport Fire Marshal Jim Morris said before pausing to wipe tears from his eyes that theres two people still left inside. We need to evaluate what we see between the structural engineer, our technical rescue teams and formulate the best possible way to strategically go in there, he continued. Clothes still hang in a closet after a portion of the building collapsed. Clothes still hang in a closet after a portion of the building collapsed. Some present at the news conference shouted over Morris, calling for rescue efforts to continue. Others have gathered outside the damaged building holding signs reading: Find them first and Demo = murder. Ryan Hitchcock is among those unaccounted for. His cousin, Amy Anderson, spoke at Tuesdays news conference in support of demolishing the building. Ryan wouldnt want anyone else to put their lives at risk to unfortunately [find] somebody who probably has not survived, Anderson said. I dont discount that he could be trapped under there miraculously. Weve seen some miraculous things, and our God is good, but we dont want to see any more families lose their lives or anybody else be injured. She added that she was mortified by the protests calling for the search to continue. I plead with our community just to let the city do their job right now. It is an absolute no-win situation, but this is the best plan of attack, she said. Officials have not yet determined what caused the buildings partial collapse. Related... An Ohio woman has a strong resemblance to Alexis Patterson. Could she be the missing girl? The latest season of Unsolved, a true-crime podcast for USA TODAY and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, examines the disappearance of 7-year-old Alexis Patterson. Alexis went missing in Milwaukee in 2002. Fourteen years after she vanished, a man in Ohio came forward to suggest his ex-wife could be Alexis. The following excerpts from the Journal Sentinel archives, reported by Crocker Stephenson, were first published in 2016. Unsolved is available on all podcast platforms. New hope in mystery of Alexis Pattersons 2002 disappearance Law enforcement officials are trying to determine if a woman living in Ohio is Alexis Patterson, the Milwaukee girl who vanished 14 years ago, a mystery that remains an open wound to those touched by her story. Questions about the Ohio woman arose when the woman's ex-husband and his fiancee became increasingly curious about her murky past. The woman, they say, has no memory of her childhood before the age of 10. She has no photographs or school mementos indeed, no usual reminders of a normal childhood. That was enough to spur the ex-husband and fiancee to search for clues on the internet. They came upon a computer-aged photograph of Alexis Patterson, and became convinced that Alexis is the woman they know. The couple compiled a set of about a dozen photos and, in late June, sent it to the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department. Within days, they also sent it to the Journal Sentinel, hoping for action. The Journal Sentinel shared the photos with the Milwaukee Police Department's cold case unit, which has been in charge of Alexis' case since 2009. Alexis' mother, Ayanna Patterson, has never wavered in her belief that her daughter is alive. But she has had her hopes built up by purported breaks in her daughter's case, only to have them crash when the breaks didn't pan out. She has been besieged by hustlers claiming to know her daughter or even to be her daughter. When the Journal Sentinel showed her the photos, Patterson's initial skepticism gave way to cautious optimism. "That could be my baby," she said when she first examined the photographs. "I've never said this before, but that could be my child." Her optimism deepened when the Journal Sentinel traveled to Ohio and interviewed the couple. The woman, they said, has two features often mentioned in descriptions of Alexis by such organizations as the FBI and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: a linear scar beneath her right eye and an unusual bump on her left pinkie finger. They also mentioned a third characteristic, one that has not been released to the general public. When the Journal Sentinel contacted Ayanna Patterson, she confirmed that Alexis had that characteristic. And then she wept. In Ohio, the woman has steadfastly denied that she is Alexis. "I am not that girl. That is a ridiculous question," she said in an interview with the Journal Sentinel. Read the full archival story. Alexis Patterson's photo is shown age-progressed to 24 years. She was last seen on May 3, 2002, on her way to Hi-Mount School in Milwaukee. Ohio woman is not Alexis Patterson, DNA test reveals The results of genetic testing released Thursday exclude the possibility that an Ohio woman is Alexis Patterson, the Milwaukee girl who vanished on her way to school 14 years ago. Alexis' mother, Ayanna Patterson, reacted with grief, rage, disbelief as well as sadness for the Ohio woman who, her daughter or not, has endured intense scrutiny by the media and by people living in her small town. "No matter what the test says, I still believe one billion percent you are my child," Patterson told the Journal Sentinel, as if speaking to the Ohio woman. Patterson herself has been exposed to similar scrutiny, which she has found painful, and has avoided returning to her home. She met with the Journal Sentinel at a park on the city's far north side. "I want you to continue to go on with your life and be as happy as you can be," Patterson said of the Ohio woman. "And be the best mother you can possibly be. And raise your children. And don't let no one hurt your kids. Don't let your children out of your sight." "I know you are hurting right now," Patterson said. "And I am sorry." More: Who are missing children in Wisconsin? It's a long list that spans decades. In a statement, Milwaukee police officials said they "received a call from the Wisconsin Regional Crime Lab regarding the results of DNA testing derived from a tip from an Ohio man relative to the 2002 disappearance of Alexis Patterson. "The sample collected by law enforcement authorities in Ohio of a female there does NOT match that of Patterson's." ...While the Ohio woman shared several characteristics peculiar to Alexis, there were several reasons Milwaukee police doubted they were one in the same. The woman says she is 28 seven years older than Alexis would be and she has two children. For her to be Alexis, she would have given birth at an unusually young age. Ayanna Patterson said she was not satisfied with the DNA results. The 14-year-old samples may be corrupted or have deteriorated over the years. "I don't believe that DNA test," she said. Read the full archival story. Unsolved podcast revisits DNA test Alexis' mother has never been satisfied with the DNA results and has continued to believe the Ohio woman is her daughter. I know thats my child, Patterson told USA TODAY last year. Im not afraid of nothing now that I know my babys safe, and I know my babys alive. Patterson believed it was possible someone tampered with the woman's DNA sample, which was collected by a police officer in Ohio and sent to Milwaukee police via FedEx. In this season of Unsolved, reporters investigated Patterson's claims and traveled to Ohio to track down answers. Learn more about the Alexis Patterson case by listening to the true-crime podcast Unsolved. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Ohio woman has a strong resemblance to Alexis Patterson, DNA tested The Oklahoma Supreme Court on Wednesday struck down two state laws that ban most abortions because they require a medical emergency before a doctor could terminate a pregnancy to save a mothers life. In a 6-3 decision, the court said the laws violate the Oklahoma Constitution based on its ruling in March that the constitution provides an inherent right for a woman to terminate a pregnancy to save her own life and does not require the danger to be imminent. The court has now struck down three strict abortion laws that went into effect after the U.S. Supreme Court reversed itself on abortion rights, striking down Roe v. Wade, from 1973, and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, from 1992. The U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization gave states the authority to make abortion laws, and Oklahoma approved some of the strictest in the nation. More: After Okla. court struck down two abortion bans, one law remains. Here's what it says. The Oklahoma Judicial Center, pictured on July 23, 2019, is the headquarters of the Oklahoma Supreme Court, the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals, and the Judiciary of Oklahoma. The statute left standing after Wednesday was the law approved in 1910, which states: Every person who administers to any woman, or who prescribes for any woman, or advises or procures any woman to take any medicine, drug or substance, or uses or employs any instrument, or other means whatever, with intent thereby to procure the miscarriage of such woman, unless the same is necessary to preserve her life, shall be guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment in the State Penitentiary for not less than two (2) years nor more than five (5) years. Both of the laws struck down Wednesday were passed by the Oklahoma Legislature in 2022 and signed by Gov. Kevin Stitt. Stemming from Senate Bill 1603 and House Bill 4327, both laws used civil lawsuits, rather than criminal prosecution, for enforcement. The laws were modeled after ones first approved in Texas, empowering residents to file lawsuits against anyone who might have helped a woman obtain an abortion. The challenge to the laws was filed by Oklahoma Call for Reproductive Justice, the Tulsa Womens Reproductive Clinic and other abortion rights groups. The suit named individual county court clerks who would be responsible for filing civil lawsuits to enforce the abortion laws. The Oklahoma Supreme Court said Wednesday that the House bill used language on medical emergencies identical to that in the law struck down in March, while the Senate bill "provides even more extreme language" than that in the bill that was the subject of the March ruling. The office of Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond said Wednesday, "Despite the courts decisions today on SB 1503 and HB 4327, Oklahomas 1910 law prohibiting abortion remains in place. Except for certain circumstances outlined in that statute, abortion is still unlawful in the State of Oklahoma. The Legislature did not take action after the court issued its first ruling in March on the inherent right to terminate a pregnancy when necessary to save a woman's life. It was not clear early Wednesday whether lawmakers would address the issue in a special session this year. State Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, an author of the bills struck down on Wednesday, issued a blistering response, saying "a rogue Oklahoma Supreme Court, acting as self-appointed legislators, unleashed another attack on Oklahomas unborn children. The court also thumbed its nose at the Legislature and showed their contempt for the separation of powers." Daniels said the Legislature had the opportunity to clarify the statutes this year and should now "strongly consider legislative intervention to avoid any more erosion to pro-life measures, or any other pieces of legislation that the Oklahoma Supreme Court doesnt like." House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, said Wednesday he was disappointed in the ruling, noting that both laws struck down had been supported by super majorities in both houses. "However, Oklahomans can rest assured that House Republicans will continue to protect the lives of the unborn and pursue legislation that values all life," McCall said. House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, praised the decision, saying it would "keep health care decisions where they belong, between Oklahomans and their physicians. Oklahomans value their right to make their own decisions when it comes to health care for themselves and their families. House Democrats will continue to fight for the rights of all Oklahomans to live their lives free from government interference." All three of the justices who dissented from the decision on Wednesday were appointed by Stitt: Chief Justice M. John Kane IV; Vice Chief Justice Dustin Rowe; and Justice Dana Kuehn. In dissenting opinions, the three expressed concerns that the new decision expanded the reach of the ruling in March, which was confined to the question of whether a woman had a constitutional right to terminate a pregnancy to save her own life. The dissenting justices did not elaborate on how the new ruling could be interpreted as expanding the right. Justice Richard Darby, who dissented from the majority in March, cited the principle of stare decisis the adherence to court precedent in joining the majority on the new ruling, though he said he maintained his opposition to the first decision. Justices Yvonne Kauger, Noma Gurich, James Winchester, Douglas Combs and James Edmondson comprised the rest of the majority; of those, Winchester is the only one who was appointed by a Republican governor. In its March ruling, the court said it would define the inherent right to mean: a woman has an inherent right to choose to terminate her pregnancy if at any point in the pregnancy, the womans physician has determined to a reasonable degree of medical certainty or probability that the continuation of the pregnancy will endanger the womans life due to the pregnancy itself or due to a medical condition that the woman is either currently suffering from or likely to suffer from during the pregnancy." The court said, Absolute certainty is not required, however, mere possibility or speculation is insufficient. Priya Desai, board member of Oklahoma Call for Reproductive Justice, said, While it is disappointing that abortion care remains largely out of reach, the state Supreme Courts decision today confirms that pregnant Oklahomans in life-threatening situations should get the care they need. Too many pregnant people in my state have been turned away from care despite facing grave threats to their health and lives. But the fight is not over. We will keep working towards a reality where abortion is available in our home communities once again. Stitt accused the court of "activism to create a right to an abortion in Oklahoma. This court has once more over-involved itself in the state's democratic process, and has interceded to undo legislation created by the will of the people." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma Supreme Court rules two abortion bans unconstitutional The Oklahoma Supreme Court struck down two laws Wednesday that required a medical emergency before a doctor could terminate a pregnancy to save a mothers life, but abortion access remains heavily restricted in the state. In a 6-3 ruling Wednesday, the state Supreme Court ruled that two bills passed by the Oklahoma Legislature in 2022 (SB 1603 and HB 4327) were unconstitutional based on a March ruling that determined the constitution provides an inherent right of a pregnant woman to terminate a pregnancy when necessary to save her life. The two laws which would have made abortion providers liable to civil lawsuits but not criminal prosecution were struck down Wednesday because they allowed abortions only in cases where the mother was suffering a life-threatening medical emergency, effectively raising the level of danger that must be present before an abortion would be legal. We read this section of law to require a woman to be in actual and present danger in order for her to obtain a medically necessary abortion, the majority opinion said in March about the medical emergency requirement. We know of no other law that requires one to wait until there is an actual medical emergency in order to receive treatment when the harmful condition is known or probable to occur in the future, the majority opinion continued. Oklahomas 1910 ban on abortion remains in effect. It made intentionally performing an abortion on a woman a felony unless necessary to preserve her life. Despite the courts decisions today on SB 1603 and HB 4327, Oklahomas 1910 law prohibiting abortion remains in place. Except for certain circumstances outlined in that statute, abortion is still unlawful in the State of Oklahoma, the office of Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond said Wednesday. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Old clips shared in false posts that Cyclone Mocha 'destroyed houses' in former Myanmar capital Social media posts in Myanmar have shared a video showing heavy winds and a flooded port alongside the false claim Cyclone Mocha destroyed many houses in the country's biggest city Yangon in May. However, the clips shared in the posts both predate Cyclone Mocha. AFP journalists in Yangon reported no widespread damage across the city while Myanmar's fire department only reported uprooted trees in the former capital. The one-minute seven-second video was shared on Facebook on May 9, 2023. Its Burmese-language caption says: "(The storm) has started hitting the Yangon port. Many houses were uprooted." The post circulated as Mocha brought lashing rain and winds of 195 kilometres per hour (120 miles per hour) to Myanmar and neighbouring Bangladesh, collapsing buildings and turning streets into rivers. The storm killed over 140 people, the country's junta said, with most of the dead from the persecuted Rohingya minority and much of the damage in conflict-scarred Rakhine state, AFP reported. Screenshot of the false post. Taken May 31, 2023 Similar posts were shared on Facebook here and here, on a blog post and on YouTube here and here. But AFP journalists working in Yangon found no evidence of uprooted houses in the former capital contrary to the claim in the posts. Moreover, multiple updates published by the Myanmar Fire Service Department on its official Facebook page here reported dozens of trees were uprooted but did not mention destroyed houses (archived link). Old footage The video shared in the posts also features two clips that predate Cyclone Mocha. Keyword searches on Google found the first clip published here on Myanmar's local media outlet Myanmar Now's YouTube channel on April 24, 2023 (archived link). Its caption reads: "Eight dead during tornadoes hit Lewe township, Naypyidaw." Naypyidaw, the modern capital of Myanmar, is located north of Yangon. Below is a screenshot comparison between first clip in the false posts (left) and the video posted by Myanmar Now (right): Screenshot comparison The same video was also uploaded by another local news channel Tachileik News Agency on April 22, 2023 (archived link). Meanwhile, a Google reverse image search of keyframes found the second clip published on Facebook on March 21, 2022. The caption of the video reads: "21.3.2022/ Today's situation in Thae Chaung village in Myeik township". Meyik is a coastal city located in the southernmost part of Myanmar which according to the country's meteorology department was affected by severe cyclonic storm Asani in March 2022 (archived link). Below is a screenshot comparison between the second clip (left) and the 2022 Facebook video (right): Ive had many talks with investors and foreign entrepreneurs throughout the last year. And the sentiment that I kept hearing was that IT in Ukraine should not be an investment priority because there are more important industries in need of restoration in Ukraine. But thats precisely the point. Ukrainian tech does not need to be restored. On the contrary, tech is the lifeblood that sustains the bulk of the Ukrainian economy, and it is tech that will take a leading role in the restoration effort. And I have a few weighty arguments to back my words. Only export industry in Ukraine to grow in 2022 Throughout the full-scale war, IT was the only industry that operated at full capacity while also increasing its share of exports. In 2022, we not only reached that benchmark but outpaced it. Companies didnt downsize but grew, hiring more people and increasing their export capacities. Last year, Ukrainian IT exports grew by almost 6% to reach a total of $7.34 billion, according to the National Bank of Ukraine. Ukraines IT sector contributed to 3.5% of the countrys GDP and experienced $400 million year-over-year growth of exports these are the highest indicators since the industrys inception. In March 2023, the IT sectors export volume increased by 9.7%, bringing an additional $53 to the Ukrainian budget compared to February. In addition, these indicators are 15% or $79 million higher compared to March 2022. Tech services make up a significant part of the structure of exports 43%. Tech continues to be one of Ukraines main export-oriented sectors. Fighting smarter: Ukraines transformation into a military innovator Before Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, 27-year-old engineer Maxim Sheremet was engaged in the manufacturing of commercial drones. He worked for the state defense company Ukroboronprom, a strategic manufacturer of weapons and military hardware in Ukraine, and later at Evolve Dynami The Kyiv IndependentAgatha Gorski Creates innovative digital products The power and beauty of Ukrainian tech are that it doesnt just replicate and adapt technologies that already exist elsewhere it is also capable of leading the charge and setting trends. For a few years now, the Ukrainian government has been refining the government in smartphone app known as Diia. The app has garnered international attention, winning many awards and becoming a sought-after export product. Estonia is already implementing its own version, mRiik, based on Diia. Ukraines Digital Transformation Ministry communicates with countries across Europe, Africa, and Asia that are interested in our experience. Diia demonstrated its true power during the onset of the full-scale war, becoming the digital foundation for the country at a time when citizens couldnt access government aid by other means. Pensions were consistently paid out through the app, and people forced to flee their homes due to Russian aggression had access to valuable documents. Currently, 14 digital documents and 25 services are available on the application, and over 90 services are available on the portal. A display featuring silhouettes of people in front of a screen with the Diia app logo as seen during the Diia Summit in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Oct. 5, 2020. (Photo by Sergii Kharchenko/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Overcomes challenges, from relocations to blackouts Ukraines tech sector showed a high level of adaptability in 2022. According to the Lviv IT Cluster, 85% of IT companies fully or almost fully restored business activity in May. Of this percentage, 63% noted a positive financial result, and 13% an increase in income in the 25-50% range. Thats not to say that our IT industry, like all other sectors of the economy, didnt have serious challenges to overcome. According to a survey by the IT Ukraine Association, nearly 71% of IT companies in Ukraine had to undergo unplanned relocations. In 2022, roughly 71% of companies and 75% of employees had to switch to remote work. However, Ukrainian businesses have managed to overcome these challenges with grace. With generators, Starlinks, and water tanks, many IT companies have maintained operational capabilities and delivered on their projects. Financial analysts predicted the Ukrainian economy would drop by 32-33% in 2022. What these analysts failed to predict is our ability to adapt and overcome to overshadow these grim predictions. Lobby X: Promoting modern and effective military recruitment in Ukraine 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 Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) are estimated to have more than tripled its personnel since the full-scale war began on Feb. 24, The Kyiv IndependentYana Lukashuk According to research by the IT Ukraine Association, 34% of companies claim to have successfully adapted to the new realities, while 43% expect an increase in business volume in 2022. Over 80% of IT companies that have relocated since the start of the full-scale war have committed to returning to Ukraine 5.6% of these companies have already started the process. Against the backdrop of the dramatic decline in other industries, the Ukrainian tech sector emerges as the model of stability and growth despite the circumstances. We have also realized that outsourcing is not an end-all-be-all for our ambitions. In recent years, many Ukrainian product companies have also developed software solutions that are sought after and distributed worldwide. Our resilience, growth, and ability to perform and innovate are markers of an industry with high potential and exciting prospects both for the industry at large and the people who work in it. Whether we are talking about SaaS, eCommerce, or big data analytics, where there is an opportunity, Ukrainian tech will follow and perform. Its up to the investors to decide whether they want to bet on the winning horse. 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. UKRAINE BELL 427 Among the latest aircraft to join the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense inventory following the full-scale Russian invasion is a Bell 427 helicopter, and one that appears to have a very unique history, having been the personal mount of Viktor Medvedchuk oligarch, pro-Russian politician, and close friend of Vladimir Putin. While the Bell 427 a twin-engine rotorcraft with the capacity to transport up to six passengers is not the most warlike addition to Ukraines fleet, its nonetheless a relatively modern type and one that could still be a very useful asset. The Bell 427 now operated by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defenses Main Directorate of Intelligence, or GUR. via Twitter Photos that were recently posted to social media show the Bell 427, in an overall dark blue paint scheme, with a prominent maroon and yellow cheatline, and the oversized Ukrainian national roundel and flag emblazoned on the fuselage. The location and the date of these photos cannot presently be confirmed, although multiple accounts state that the operator is the Ukrainian Ministry of Defenses Main Directorate of Intelligence better known by its Ukrainian abbreviation GUR. via Twitter It seems this Bell 427 is the same aircraft that was among the assets belonging to Viktor Medvedchuk that were transferred to the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense last year. In a Telegram post in July 2022, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine stated that a helicopter and airplane belonging to Medvedchuks family had been seized and turned over to the Defense Ministry. Although the statement didnt mention the particular types, accompanying photos showed a Bell 427 and a Gulfstream G650 bizjet. The Bell 427 has the Aruban civil registration P4-IKH and apparently wears a standard Bell factory color scheme. The Bell 427, P4-IKH, after it was impounded last year. Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs The Gulfstream G650 bizjet that was formerly owned by Viktor Medvedchuk. Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs A video showing Bell 427 P4-IKH, which previously belonged to Viktor Medvedchuk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0RK8N3F9AY The statement said that the two aircraft were seized as part of criminal proceedings related to the alleged abuse of power or position, as well as misappropriation, embezzlement, or seizure of property through abuse of office, under the criminal code of Ukraine. At the time, it was reported that the helicopter was valued at approximately $3 million, while the Gulfstream was valued at over $65 million. As for Medvedchuk, he was arrested by Ukrainian authorities in April 2022, having escaped house arrest only four days after Russia began its full-scale invasion. In September 2022, Medvedchuk (together with 55 Russian prisoners of war) was exchanged for 215 Ukrainian POWs from the siege of Mariupol. Fugitive oligarch and President Vladimir Putins close friend Viktor Medvedchuk is seen handcuffed after a special operation was carried out by the Security Service of Ukraine in Ukraine on April 12, 2022. Photo by Security Service of Ukraine/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images The Ukrainian authorities interest in Medvedchuk was hardly a surprise. The close ally of Putin was dubbed Russias main guy in Ukraine, having headed up a pro-Russian political party for many years. Medvedchuk also had a close personal connection with Putin, holidaying with the Russian leader, who was chosen as the godparent to Medvedchuks daughter, Daria. As well as his political activities, Medvedchuk was a prominent oligarch, with a business empire that spanned oil and media, and funded assets such as his aircraft fleet. The whereabouts of the Gulfstream G650 bizjet are not currently known, but it seems that the Bell 427 is already being used by the GUR or is otherwise preparing to join it. The Bell 427 is only in very limited military service, with one example serving the air force of Paraguay as a VIP transport. However, it saw more uptake as a platform for police work, with operators in this capacity being found in Argentina and Nigeria, for example. Other Bell 427s are also used for search and rescue work. A standard civilian-service Bell 427. Aeroprints.com/Wikimedia Commons The photos originally published by the Ministry of Internal Affairs show Medvedchuks Bell 427 apparently immediately after its seizure, with a civilian-style interior including comfortable seating. Its not clear what if any, modifications have been made to the helicopter since. While the GRU might be using it as a VIP transport, its very possible that it has been adapted to undertake more specialized roles. Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs Should the GRU be using the Bell 427 to transport fully equipped personnel, for example, then the seating configuration will almost certainly have been adapted. Another option is that the seating has been replaced with a medical evacuation interior. Typically, the medevac Bell 427 is equipped to transport two stretcher patients and two medical attendants. The interior of a Bell 427 equipped for medical evacuation. Radim Holis/Wikimedia Commons The Bell 427 is not the first Western helicopter design to have joined the fleet of the GRU since Russia launched its invasion in February 2022. In the past, The War Zone has reported on the U.S.-made UH-60A Black Hawk helicopter that the GRU is now using, including working with special forces units. The Main Directorate of Intelligence has also stated that the Black Hawk offers certain important advantages over the Soviet-designed Mi-8 Hip and Mi-24 Hind series helicopters, which it otherwise operates. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8r0d_uodN4 While the Bell 427 is in an entirely different class to any of these types, its conceivable that it could also have a role to play in medical evacuation, as well as the insertion and extraction of small teams of troops or special forces. Depending on how this particular Bell 427 is equipped in terms of avionics, it could also be better able to conduct night flights than other assets. The Bell 427 is also notably small and relatively discreet, with a correspondingly smaller footprint and noise signature than the larger GRU rotorcraft. It also offers comparatively high speed, big power reserves for its size, and a very good level of maneuverability, at least compared with the much larger Mi-8. This, too, may make the Bell design better suited to certain covert operations, with the proviso that only a much smaller number of troops can be embarked. Ukrainian Mi-8 helicopters at low level. Metin Aktas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images The Ukrainian Bell 427 has no winch. Although troops could potentially still rappel down from the hovering helicopter, its by no means suitable for operating on any kind of contested battlefield, with no provision for self-protection features in its basic form. The GRUs UH-60, at least in its initial configuration, also doesnt seem to feature missile approach warning systems and countermeasures dispensers or other self-protection equipment, although this doesnt seem to have prevented it from undertaking more hazardous missions. The UH-60A operated by the GRU. Ukrainian Main Directorate of Intelligence It is interesting, too, that Bell is also increasingly looking at options for doing exactly as Ukraine has done, and adapting civilian helicopters for armed conflict. Bell could potentially step in and offer a suitable modification package for Ukraine or offer mission kits. At the same time, Bell and others are seeing a broader opening for exporting civilian helicopters adapted for military uses as a result of the Ukraine war and subsequent Russian sanctions that have effectively removed spare parts and support for Russian types. For now, we simply dont know what kind of missions the GRUs new helicopter is flying or will fly in the future and to what degree it has been adapted for military work. There is a question, too, about how the GRU trained personnel to fly and maintain the helicopter, although its worth noting that the UH-60 was apparently mastered remarkably quickly, being first flown by Ukrainian pilots on the day it was received. Without a doubt, the Bell 427 is an interesting addition to an increasingly varied fleet. We have approached the GRU with a request for more information on this aircraft and we look forward to gaining more details about how it is being used. Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com The man accused of planting a deadly bomb during the Summer Olympics in Atlanta eluded cops for years until he dug through the trash 20 years ago, the FBI said. Jeffrey Postell, a 21-year-old rookie police officer in a North Carolina mountain town, was on patrol early May 31, 2003, when he spotted a man rummaging through a trash bin behind a rural grocery store. Postell, who thought the man had a gun, took him into custody before another sharp-eyed official realized he looked familiar, according to the federal government and the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. When the man was arrested in the town of Murphy, he reportedly didnt provide his name. But through the help of a wanted poster, he was identified as Eric Rudolph, the man believed to be responsible for planting four bombs, including one that went off in July 1996 at Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta. At the time, the Olympics drew thousands of people to the park. The explosion injured more than 100 people and killed a woman who was there to see the international sporting competition with her daughter, officials said. Between 1996 and 1998, Rudolph also is accused of planting two other bombs in Georgia and one in Birmingham, Alabama, leading to blasts that injured several others and killed a police officer. By the time agents were ready to arrest Rudolph, the ATF said he fled to the Western North Carolina wilderness. A suspect on the run in NC Rudolph described as a survivalist grew up in the rugged terrain near the Nantahala National Forest. So he was familiar with hiding spots and knew the mountains so well he could navigate them at night, Chris Swecker, former head of the FBIs Charlotte office, said in an interview published on the agencys website. Even after officials studied geography and conducted a massive manhunt, their suspect remained elusive. While some people believe the fugitive received help with staying in hiding, Swecker doesnt believe so. Rudolph is such a loner that we strongly believed he simply wouldnt have trusted anybody, he said. He had access to news; he had newspaper articles in his camp. He knew he was being pursued. The search for Rudolph ended two decades ago, when he was seen trying to get food from a dumpster near a Save-A-Lot supermarket. He tried to hide behind milk crates before Postell caught up with him, McClatchy News reported. Postell, who was almost done with his shift when he made the arrest, described their drive to jail on an Our State podcast in 2019. I can still to this day remember him sitting in the back of my police car and me viewing him through my rearview mirror and him having just a death stare at me and just seeing his eyes, he said. He had the coldest eyes. Rudolph dubbed the Olympic Park Bomber also was accused of targeting an abortion clinic and an LGBT nightclub. The bombings really sprang from his own unique biases and prejudices, Swecker said. In 2005, Rudolph pleaded guilty to federal charges tied to the four blasts. He is serving four life sentences and isnt eligible for parole, officials said. Nuclear bombs fell on North Carolina in 1961. The state was one step from disaster Scientists at NASA's first ever public meeting on "unidentified anomalous phenomena" -- more commonly called UFOs -- have called for a more rigorous scientific approach to clarify the origin of hundreds of mysterious sightings The truth is out there -- but we're going to need to look harder. Scientists at NASA's first ever public meeting on "unidentified anomalous phenomena" -- more commonly called UFOs -- called Wednesday for a more rigorous scientific approach to clarify the origin of hundreds of mysterious sightings. The space agency announced last year it was analyzing observations in the sky that can't be identified as aerial or natural phenomena -- a subject that has long fascinated the public but was shunned by mainstream science. An independent team of 16 scientists are due to report their findings in a report by the end of July, with Wednesday's working meeting a forum for its final deliberations. "The current existing data and eyewitness reports alone are insufficient to provide conclusive evidence," astrophysicist David Spergel, chair of the study, said in livestreamed remarks. "One of the lessons we've drawn is the need for more high quality data and data that is, measured with well calibrated instruments, multiple observations, and there's a need for high quality data curation," he added. There have been more than 800 events collected over 27 years, of which two to five percent of them are thought to be possibly anomalous, said science journalist Nadia Drake, part of the study. These are defined as "anything that is not readily understandable by the operator or the sensor," or "something that is doing something weird." - Metallic orb- In a presentation, Sean Kirkpatrick, director of Pentagon's All-Domain Anomaly Resolution office, showed a new video of two distant dots moving back and forth on a screen, as recorded by a P3 military aircraft in the western United States, which became three dots. The P3 was unable to intercept the dots, and the pilot reported the event. But later analysis revealed the objects were very far away and likely commercial aircraft on a major flight corridor. "This is the kind of thing that can spoof and/or provide misperception of both very highly trained pilots, as well as sensors," said Kirkpatrick. "When they're not sure, they're reporting it now, and that's what they're supposed to be doing." One example of a still unexplained phenomenon was a flying metallic orb spotted by an MQ-9 drone at an undisclosed location in the Middle East, added Kirkpatrick, replaying a video first shown to Congress last month. "This is a typical example of a thing we see most of. We see these all over the world, and we see this making very interesting apparent maneuvers." While NASA probes and rovers scour the solar system for the fossils of ancient microbes, and its astronomers look for signs of intelligent civilizations on distant planets, this is the first time NASA is investigating unexplained phenomena in Earth's skies. The agency's posture in the past was to "debunk" such sightings -- reinforcing the stigma over the hunt for alien life. Several of the study's scientists have been subjected to online harassment as a result of their participation in the panel, revealed Dan Evans, who is coordinating the research. "It's critical to understand any form of harassment towards our panelists only serves to detract from the scientific process, which requires an environment of respect and openness," he added. NASA's work, which relies on unclassified material, is separate from a Pentagon investigation, though the two are coordinating on matters of how to apply scientific tools and methods. "To date, in the refereed scientific literature, there is no conclusive evidence suggesting an extraterrestrial origin for UAV," summarized Drake. ia/bgs Guatemalan presidential candidates Edmond Mulet, left, Bernardo Arevalo and Amilcar Pop answer questions during Foro Presidencial Los Angeles 2023, Cara a Cara Con El Migrante, at the Celebrity Centre International in Hollywood on May 5. (James Carbonee / Los Angeles Times en Espanol) Guatemalans living in the United States could help sway their homeland's politics when they vote in its June 25 presidential election. But despite the diaspora's potential clout, only a handful of candidates turned out for a May 5 candidate forum in Los Angeles. That left Southern California's Guatemalan community frustrated and angry, feelings that many know all too well when it comes to national politics. Twenty-three candidates are vying for the top office of the profoundly troubled Central American nation. They will be chasing the 89,554 registered voters who reside on U.S. soil. The metropolitan triangle that comprises Los Angeles, Long Beach and Santa Ana is home to the largest share of the U.S. Guatemalan diaspora, about 230,000 people out of a total estimated to be as large as 1.6 million. But the dismal turnout for the third presidential forum organized by the Guatemalan Migrant Network and held at the Church of Scientology's Celebrity Centre International in Hollywood left many local Guatemalans doubtful about the integrity of the immigrant voting process, which already has been beset by allegations of official mishandling and technical mishaps. In his opening remarks at the forum, Walter Batres, president of the Guatemalan Migrant Network, praised the three candidates who showed up, in language that jabbed at the 11 other invited aspirants who opted out. "You did not get off the plane, you did not make excuses, you are complying with an invitation that the migrants made to you," Batres told the three participants, prompting loud applause from the roughly 200 people who packed an auditorium. That shows that you do have a visa, Batres said to a chorus of laughter. The three who came were Amilcar Pop of the Winaq URNG Party; Bernardo Arevalo of Movimiento Semilla; and Edmond Mulet of the Cabal party. Of those, only Mulet reached double digits in a May 2 poll, with 10.1%. Among the no-shows were Carlos Pineda (Citizen Prosperity), a right-wing businessman who led the poll with 23.1% but whose candidacy recently was barred by the Constitutional Court over alleged violations of electoral law; and Zury Rios (Valor-Unionista), daughter of the late right-wing dictator and evangelist Efrain Rios Montt, a former military man and briefly de facto president whose tenure coincided with one of the most violent periods of Guatemala's 35-year, genocidal civil war that ended in 1996 with more than 200,000 people dead and 1 million displaced. For decades, Guatemalans living in the U.S. have helped shore up their ancestral nation's revenue stream by sending back remittances. If for no other reason, many immigrants believe, that should give politicians an incentive to care about their votes. Guatemalan leaders and activists in Southern California said they're most concerned about stemming the flow of Guatemalan emigration, lifting the country's economy and restoring the rule of law. The oligarchy has co-opted the entire state, said Mario Avila, a local activist and organizer sympathetic to the leftist Movement for the Liberation of Peoples, whose presidential candidate is Thelma Cabrera. If we fill Congress with a large number of MLP deputies, we are going to create a Congress of dignity and we are going to make more structural changes and we will be able to remove all those corrupt judges and prosecutors." In 2019, the first year that expatriate Guatemalans were allowed to vote, 19 candidates ran for president. A total of 8.1 million voters at home and abroad were registered, and 5 million participated. In the first electoral round, Sandra Torres of the National Unity of Hope party finished first, with 1.1 million votes (25.53%), followed by Alejandro Giammattei of Vamos (13.96%), Mulet (11.22%) and Cabrera (10.37%). The electoral trend in the United States, though of exponentially lesser volume, was notably different. Among migrants, Cabrera received 235 votes, more than double those of Giammattei, who went on to win the election. There is great discontent, said Avila, who attributes the differing results to greater opposition among immigrants to the political ruling class. This year, he and other L.A. activists have been trying to drum up local support for MLP candidates, focusing on the Maya community in the Westlake-MacArthur Park area. The migrant is more alert, said Batres, adding that candidates cannot easily buy the vote of U.S. immigrants, whereas in Guatemala it is customary for politicians to bribe voters with as little as a T-shirt or a bag of rice. The three candidates who appeared in Los Angeles spoke to similar preoccupations. Pop, 45, of Indigenous Qeqchi descent, is a lawyer who identifies ideologically as a leftist. He was elected to two terms in Congress and is currently a legislator of the Central American Parliament. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, he said he wanted to focus on improving economic conditions in Guatemala to curb the brain drain of young, educated professionals fleeing the country. We want to technify and industrialize Guatemalan agriculture, generate enough technology and bet on micro-enterprises, get out of underdevelopment, he said. He would hope to achieve that, in part, by improving services at Guatemala's consulates which, he believes, have lapsed under President Giammattei and by shoring up diplomatic relations with the U.S. government, he said. Arevalo, 64, a sociologist and former diplomat, said his four-year budget proposal for foreign services would double that of the Giammattei administration from $118 million to $237 million. He also pledged to review consulate staffing to determine whether there needs to be personnel changes. He also stressed the need for the federal government to invest more in job creation and healthcare. The people who are leaving Huehuetenango, San Marcos and Quetzaltenango are not people who want go on vacation or have an adventure. Those people are leaving because there is no other possibility to survive than going to look for work where it exists, Arevalo said, referring to the western regions of Guatemala close to the Mexican border. Mulet, 72, emphasized the need to combat corruption, which drains resources and undermines economic development. The center-right lawyer, who is a former president of Congress and former ambassador to the United States, vowed to attract more investment by bolstering the rule of law. The culture of care for migrants is going to change, said Mulet, who has been critical of the Giammattei government. At the end of the forum, Yolanda Nish, originally from Quetzaltenango, believed that the three candidates largely echoed one another. They were all almost the same," the San Fernando Valley resident said. I like to participate, but I wouldn't vote for anyone even if they convinced me, because even if I were there [in Guatemala] they won't keep what they promise." Emilsa Bautista, originally from San Marcos state, traveled all the way from Dallas to attend the forum. The restaurant owner arrived in the United States 30 years ago. I want to know who I am going to vote for," said Bautista, a native of the city of Tecun Uman, on the border with Mexico. To U.S. voters accustomed to choosing between two political parties, the idea of having to sort through 23 candidates may be unimaginable. Cristhians Castillo, a researcher at the Institute of National Problems at the University of San Carlos in Guatemala City, said that there are 30 registered political parties in Guatemala and that all are required by law to field candidates for Congress and municipal councils, whose elections also will be held June 25. In these elections, 160 deputies, 20 members of the Central American Parliament and 340 mayors will be elected for four-year terms beginning in 2024. Castillo said the large number of parties reflects the presence of many satellite parties that orbit around major parties. They are useful mostly for forming coalitions with major parties that then can pass or block legislation, as well as shield the major parties and their representatives from legal prosecution and political scrutiny. The 160 deputies who will be elected will appoint judges and magistrates to the Supreme Court of Justice. Like those of most of its Central American neighbors, Guatemala's democracy is shaky, and its electoral institutions arouse deep suspicions about their competence and impartiality. One prominent recent example involved Cabrera, 52, the MLP candidate, from southwestern Guatemala's Retalhuleu state, who is a leftist of Mam Maya descent and represents one of the country's most impoverished rural areas. But her candidate registration was denied by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, setting off a legal battle. On May 2, the Constitutional Court rejected the appeal filed by the MLP, arguing that Cabrera's vice presidential candidate, former human rights attorney Jordan Rodas, lacked a routine registration document. In an interview with The Times, political scientist Anita Isaacs, a professor at Haverford College, said Cabrera and Rodas were blocked because both have a vision of social change that breaks with the political establishment's status quo. They represented the option to resume the peace accords, resume the hope of building a society where the rule of law prevails and where a more inclusive and democratic state and society, in every sense, is deepened," said Isaacs, referring to negotiations between the government and the leftist guerrilla rebel forces that ended the civil war but have been undermined by corruption and the widespread granting of impunity, according to human rights groups. The chance of minor-party candidates advancing to the Aug. 20 runoff, if no candidate gets more than 50% of the votes in the first round, is slim. Of the three candidates who visited Los Angeles, Mulet stands the best chance of advancing, Castillo said. "What the survey does is expose the wear and tear that the traditional political class has had," he said, noting that the three candidates with the highest disapproval ratings all have close ties with former presidential administrations. L.A. resident Leonel De La Cruz has been sharing his preferences for candidates without shady pasts on WhatsApp. "You know who can do something for the country, and we know those who have dark ties," the Guatemala City native said. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Leslie Van Houten has been in prison since 1971 for her role in the murders ordered by Charles Manson. (Stan Lim / Associated Press) On Tuesday, Californias 2nd District Court of Appeal reversed Gov. Gavin Newsoms veto of Leslie Van Houtens parole, reinstating the state boards 2020 parole grant decision. Its ruling exposes deep flaws in Californias system of allowing gubernatorial vetoes in the first place. Van Houten, a member of the infamous Manson "family," participated in the murders of Rosemary and Leno LaBianca in 1969. She was 19 at the time. These were horrific crimes whose aftermath shattered a sense of innocence and safety for many. But it is also true that Van Houten and other teenage girls caught in Mansons web were indoctrinated into, exploited and abused by a dangerous cult not properly understood until many years after the murders. In prison since 1971, with her original death sentence commuted to life with parole in 1972, Van Houten has transformed herself, earning two academic degrees, participating in rehabilitative programs and expressing remorse for her crimes. After decades of prosecutors and families of the victims of Manson's crimes opposing Van Houtens release, the factual evidence finally outdid the political pressure: Since 2016, the Board of Parole Hearings has recommended her release five times. Gov. Jerry Brown and then Gov. Newsom reversed each decision. The appeals court reviewed Newsom's veto through a system deferential to the governor; all they needed to uphold his decision was some evidence that Van Houten, now 73, presents a risk to public safety. The court concluded that his veto was not supported by a modicum of evidence in the record. Since a 2008 decision from the California Supreme Court, parole boards cant deny release based solely on the severity of a crime. Instead, they must show that the parole candidate poses a public safety risk. Boards and governors alike have circumvented this standard by using hard-to-falsify language for example, vaguely claiming that they dont think the inmate possesses insight about their crime. In denying Van Houtens 2020 parole bid, as the appeals court reported, Newsom argued that her explanation of what allowed her to be vulnerable to Mr. Mansons influence remains unsatisfying. He was also unconvinced that her childhood trauma, including her parents divorce and a forced abortion, adequately explain her eagerness to submit to a dangerous cult leader or her desire to please Mr. Manson, including engaging in the brutal actions of the life crime. The court essentially called the governors bluff. They found that Van Houtens extensive record showed no additional factors Van Houten has failed to articulate, or what further evidence she could have provided to establish her suitability for parole. The Governors concern that there is more than meets the eye is, on this record, speculation, but [per state law] the Governors decisions must be supported by some evidence, not merely by a hunch or intuition. Yet allowing the governor to veto parole recommendations at all risks reducing such weighty decisions to one persons hunch or political agenda. California is one of only two states that allow gubernatorial veto of parole. The Legislature introduced it in 1988, politicizing the parole process and adding public pressure as well as optics to what should be a professional assessment of risk. The veto works in one direction: The governor can veto only parole recommendations, not denials. Any fear that the state is releasing dangerous people in droves is unfounded. Parole boards are reluctant to grant parole. According to data from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Board of Parole Hearings recommended it in only 20% of cases in 2019. As I explain in my book "Yesterdays Monsters," receiving parole at ones first hearing is extremely rare. I found that the median time spent behind bars on a life sentence with parole in California has risen from 12 years in 1980 to 28 years in 2012 for those who have been released, and a quarter of the prison population is serving life sentences 26,000 with parole and 5,000 without. The role of politics was particularly clear during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aging and infirm lifer population faced serious risks of contagion and death behind bars. They also pose little to no public safety risk, as shown by robust criminological evidence. Still, Newsom agreed to release merely 8,000 people a deficit eclipsed by incoming admissions from jails, and the vast majority with just weeks or months left of their sentences. Van Houten was up for parole in 2020 when her prison, the California Institution for Women, was experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak of more than 100 cases. The court's decision now puts the ball back in the governors court. He has a 10-day window, starting in a month, wherein he can instruct Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta to appeal this case to the California Supreme Court. Common sense should prevail and guide our leadership in Sacramento to allow this rehabilitated septuagenarian to live her life quietly on the outside. But no matter the outcome, her journey raises serious questions about the gubernatorial veto. Do we truly need an extra layer of political considerations to assess danger to the public or should we trust the professionals appointed by the governor, mostly from law enforcement backgrounds, to do their job? Hadar Aviram is a professor at UC Law San Francisco. She is the author of Yesterdays Monsters: The Manson Family Cases and the Illusion of Parole and co-author with Chad Goerzen of the forthcoming FESTER: Carceral Permeability and Californias COVID-19 Correctional Disaster. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. This is the fourth in a series of essays from a Knowledge Matters Campaign tour of school districts using high-quality science curriculum. In this piece, Robert Emery Godke, a student teacher in the West Feliciana Parish Schools in Louisiana, reflects on returning to West Feliciana Middle School after having been a student there 10 years earlier. With the districts implementation of a high quality science curriculum, science instruction has transformed from sit and get to an interactive learning experience. Follow the rest of the series and previous curriculum case studies here. When you walk into a science classroom at West Feliciana Middle School you will likely see a lot of excited engagement with students exploring scientific phenomena and making observations about what they see, asking questions and making predictions about the world around them, and conducting experiments to answer their research questions. These activities model the methods of a professional scientific researcher and, while relatively new to the school, are becoming commonplace for our student body. Ten years ago I was a student at West Feliciana Middle School. While I have always been one of those who succeeded in the standard classroom environment, science classes rarely piqued my interest. Even though school came easily to me, I struggled to pay attention, or even stay awake, during science class. I yearned for opportunities to get my hands dirty and try things out for myself. Unfortunately, most of the science classes I experienced utilized what I now understand to be the sit and get model, with students sitting silently in their seats while the teacher presented information. Unsurprisingly, this was wildly boring for many of us. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter I write this now as a student teacher in the same middle school where I grew up. Im a senior at Louisiana State Universitys GeauxTeach STEM program currently working to earn my full Louisiana teaching certificate. Science is my passion, and my interest in becoming an educator was to inspire that same passion in students from my hometown community. (I have since decided to pursue a medical degree; but thats another story.) Luckily for me, my assigned mentor teacher, Sarah Parkerson, was also my seventh-grade science teacher when I was a student at WFMS, providing me with the unique opportunity to compare my classroom experiences of 10 years ago to the experiences that students are currently receiving at WFMS. The contrast truly is remarkable. WFMS now uses OpenSciEd, a middle school science curriculum created to support the Next Generation Science Standards, that require so much more of students than those in place when I went through school. At the start of each unit, students are presented with a familiar anchoring phenomenon. This phenomenon is then used as a framework to explore the scientific principles and processes laid out in the standards. In one of our units, for example, the curriculum used a bath bomb as its anchoring phenomenon to teach students about chemical reactions. Almost all of the students in my classes have been familiar with this common bathroom item, but, upon initial probing, my students realized they didnt have any idea of why or how it worked. We started out the unit by asking questions about the bath bombs. What is it made out of? Is the gas trapped inside? What happens if you put the bath bomb in a different liquid? When they dropped the bath bomb in the water, we asked them to make and record their observations. They then performed experiments to see how the mass and properties change before and after dropping the bath bomb in water. We even analyzed the materials in the bath bomb to see what combinations of ingredients would give us similar reactions. Throughout this entire process, the students were rarely sitting at their desks taking in information and being given explanations by their teacher. They were the ones asking questions and making observations. They took measurements. They conducted mini experiments and analyzed their results. While the activities may have been facilitated by the classroom teacher, it was unquestionably the students who were driving their learning. And it was extremely motivating to them to find answers to their questions. Their curiosity and engagement was sustained throughout the unit. In the end, our students learned a ton about chemical reactions and how we identify them, based on a common bath item theyd never thought twice about. They came to class excited to do experiments to figure out an explanation behind something that they knew worked but never knew why it worked, bragging to their friends when their predictions turned out to be correct. Im certain they would not have been nearly as excited to sit in a chemistry classroom and learn the same material from a lecture. I know that I would have preferred the OpenSciEd curriculum as a student 10 years ago. I wish I had been taught this way. I also firmly believe that our students retention of scientific knowledge is enhanced by this approach. In our most recent unit, students are learning about the digestive system and our bodys metabolic reactions through the anchoring phenomena of a sick middle school girl named MKenna. Throughout the unit, these seventh graders are referencing things they learned in their sixth grade OpenSciEd unit about the bodys healing processes as building blocks for what theyre learning now. Through these small but significant references to their sixth grade experiences, my students have shown that they are not only improving their volume of learned science knowledge, but are also making connections to previously learned material. Ive become convinced that inspiring a love for science in young people depends on falling in love with the scientific process itself. As functioning adults we ask questions, make observations and seek connections to answer our questions. On a fundamental level, this is the basic framework that scientific researchers, regardless of their chosen scientific field, work with every day. If we can model this process in our classroom, we can not only introduce the basic scientific process to our students but also improve their problem-solving skills. The enthusiasm my students at WFMS have for science, in contrast to the experience my classmates and I experienced a decade ago, makes it abundantly clear that utilizing the scientific process has the power to engage far more than sitting and memorizing any particular tidbit of scientific knowledge. The fact that students are doing this in a collaborative environment, with their peers, also makes it so much more real. And I sincerely hope that this will inspire our students to live their lives as scientists, not just until state testing concludes. Robert Emery Godke is a senior at Louisiana State Universitys GeauxTeach STEM program and a student teacher in the West Feliciana Parish Schools in Louisiana. Proposition 13 protects the propertied often white homeowners at a high cost to more diverse, first-time buyers. (Phillip Molnar/The San Diego Union-Tribune) Late last week, the Supreme Court unanimously ruled that a decades-old Minnesota property tax law was unlawful when it allowed the government to seize wealth from an elderly Black homeowner. The decision in Tyler vs. Hennepin County serves as a warning about legal defects in other property tax laws that unfairly harm communities of color, including Californias own Proposition 13. The Minnesota case began when Geraldine Tyler failed to pay the taxes on her longtime Minneapolis home. Over several years, the tax debt accumulated to $2,300, exploding to $15,000 when penalties and fines were added. The county seized her condominium and sold it, keeping the entire proceeds $40,000 not just the $15,000 she owed. The Supreme Court proclaimed that this money grab was unjust and unconstitutional under the 5th Amendments takings clause. It rejected Hennepin Countys legal reliance on the 13th century Statute of Gloucester, a law that Justice Neil M. Gorsuch characterized during oral arguments as being about lands owned by the feudal lord and what happens when a vassal fails to provide enough wheat to his lord. The courts determination that what happened to Tyler didnt meet constitutional standards echoes and revives a concern raised in the 1990s about Proposition 13. Californias tax-assessment limits demand radically different property taxes from owners of similar properties, based only on their time of purchase. Thirty years ago, Stephanie Nordlinger balked at paying nearly five times in property taxes for her Los Angeles home as longer-settled neighbors. An unmoved Supreme Court majority held that the differential treatment had a rational basis, but Justice John Paul Stevens disagreed. In his dissent, Stevens concluded that Proposition 13 created a privilege of a medieval character: Two families with equal needs and equal resources are treated differently solely because of their different heritage. The Supreme Courts blessing in Nordlinger vs. Hahn upheld Proposition 13s legality and established its feudal and unfair nature. Proposition 13 raises race discrimination concerns. Assessment caps benefit long-standing homeowners who are often white at the expense of their more diverse neighbors who arrive later. The effects of such property taxes on homeownerships demography suggest violations of the 1968 federal Fair Housing Act. Recent estimates show that Proposition 13 gives the average homeowner in a white neighborhood of Oakland, for example, a tax break of nearly $10,000 each year more than triple the break provided to average homeowners in Latino neighborhoods, and about double those in Black and Asian neighborhoods in Oakland. Ironically, people just like Tyler were the original faces of the battle to enact Proposition 13 in California and similar measures around the country. Activists in the 1970s and 1980s invoked stories of elderly widows losing their homes to convince voters that property taxes should be based on a homes purchase price and allowed to rise just 2% a year from there, regardless of market value. But such assessment limits have not lived up to their promise to protect homeowners. Michigan also limits the amount that an owners assessment can rise. Yet as real estate values declined in Detroit, those limits did not ensure that assessments fell to match, leaving low-income Black homeowners with inflated, unaffordable taxes. Like Tyler in Minnesota, many residents were forced out of their homes through tax foreclosures . In California, Proposition 13s overbroad system protects the propertied at a high cost to more diverse, first-time buyers. People may stay put to hold on to a tax advantage, limiting inventory and driving up home costs. Parents can also pass low tax assessments on to their children, exacerbating the problem. The California Housing Finance Agency notes that for the entire 2010s, Californias Black homeownership rate has been lower than it was in the 1960s, when it was completely legal to discriminate against Black homebuyers. While Proposition 13s precise inequitable effects are complicated, more inclusive and less legally tenuous alternatives exist. There are other tax reforms that could protect low-income and elderly homeowners without hamstringing cities tax bases and enriching wealthy owners. Philadelphia allows low-income senior citizens to freeze their property taxes, and low-income families to spread rapid assessment increases over several years. In Massachusetts and some Connecticut towns, low-income homeowners can defer part of their property tax bill, which is paid off upon the homes sale. California has its own property tax postponement program, which it should expand, instead of relying on Proposition 13. The Supreme Courts rejection of Minnesotas greediness reminds us that the courts are watching as states tighten the vise of property tax systems on the poor and racially diverse. To be sure, Proposition 13 does not result in unconstitutional takings. But the concerns that motivated the court in Tyler vs. Hennepin County also apply here. And given the courts willingness to reverse long-held constitutional precedent, perhaps the Nordlinger decision itself will be due for reconsideration. Californias admirable protection of struggling, older homeowners can occur through less discriminatory and irrational means. Tax injustice shows up not only in the foreclosure of an elderly Black womans $40,000 Midwest condominium but also in the inability of diverse, immigrant families to purchase a $400,000 condominium in Mid-City. Shayak Sarkar is a professor of law and an economist at UC Davis. Josh Rosenthal is legal director of the Public Rights Project, a civil rights and economic rights nonprofit. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Gov. Tina Kotek speaks May 17 during the armed forces celebration at the Oregon State Capitol. Negotiations to end the Oregon Senate walkout have reached an impasse, Gov. Tina Kotek said Wednesday. The Oregon Senate has been unable to conduct business since May 3 when Senate Republicans and an Independent stopped attending floor sessions, denying the Senate the 20-member quorum required. Republican leadership initially said the walkout was motivated by frustrations with Democrats' failure to follow laws and statutes requiring bill summaries to meet specific readability scores. But at the center of the walkout has been opposition to House Bill 2002, which would require insurance to cover gender-affirming care, establish further protections to health care providers who perform abortions, and allow minors under the age of 15 to have an abortion without their parents consent. Oregon, with its legislative Democratic majority and Democratic governor, has been one of few states this year advancing measures to expand abortion and LGBTQ protections instead of restricting them. But the walkout has put the minority Republican lawmakers in a unique position of power to squash the effort. Oregon is one of four states that requires a two-thirds majority to conduct legislative business. How did the governor get involved? All but three Oregon Senate Republicans have now violated Measure 113 with their unexcused absences. The measure was approved by voters last year in an effort to end walkouts by disqualifying a lawmaker from another term after 10 unexcused absences. Sen. Dick Anderson, R-Lincoln City, and Sen. David Brock Smith, R-Port Orford, have been the only two Republicans to appear on the floor the past several days. Sen. Fred Girod, R-Stayton, remains excused for medical reasons. When Democratic legislative leaders failed to negotiate an end to the walkout, Kotek stepped in. But according to the statement from Kotek Wednesday, her talks with Senate Republican leadership have also fallen apart. "After a week of productive conversations and continued attempts to work with the Senate Republican caucus to revive a number of their priorities, I am disappointed that Senator Knopp has made clear to me that there is not a path forward unless House Bill 2002 is substantially amended or dead," Kotek said. Democrats and Kotek have been clear throughout the walkout that the bill was not up for negotiation. What deal was offered? Kotek said she has met with all four legislative caucuses, held five meetings with Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp, R-Bend, and held conversations with Senate and House leadership over the past nine days. Kotek said she put forward "an earnest proposal" based on Senate Republicans' priorities and concerns that "included compromises by the Senate president and speaker of the House on a variety of process and policy issues." The exact details of the proposal were not released. But in a follow-up email, Kotek's office said items from the Republicans' priority list were discussed in addition to process changes they were looking for. Knopp, in a statement, alleged Kotek "was focused on a return to the status quo: an agenda that is unlawful, uncompromising, and unconstitutional." "If Democrats want us to provide a quorum before June 25, they must agree to follow Senate Rules, follow the law, and work to put forward constitutional, bipartisan bills that dont violate a parents sacred right to love and care for their child," Knopp said. What happens next? Knopp has said Republicans would return to work on June 25, the last day of session allowed, to vote on a budget and "substantially bipartisan" legislation, essentially giving them veto power over bills. Senate President Rob Wagner, D-Lake Oswego, has said he would not allow Republicans to use that tactic. "The people of Oregon were clear when they amended our constitution last fall: Walkouts are not an acceptable part of our legislative process. It is well past time for Senate Republicans to return to work and earn their taxpayer-funded pay," Wagner said in a statement demanding an end to the walkout. "We have hundreds of bills that have gone through our rigorous committee process. These bills must have an up or down vote on the Senate floor." Hundreds of bills remain stalled in the Senate. Dianne Lugo covers the Oregon Legislature and equity issues. Reach her at dlugo@statesmanjournal.com or on Twitter @DianneLugo This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Kotek announces impasse in negotiations to end Senate walkout At least 204 people, including four children, have been killed in Bakhmut, Donetsk Oblast, since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Source: Oleksii Reva, Mayor of Bakhmut, in an interview with Ukrinform Quote: "We, the residents of Bakhmut, have lost a lot. But the worst losses are human lives. Since the beginning of the war, 505 of our residents, including 17 children, have suffered mine-blast injuries. Unfortunately, 204 people died, among them four children [as of 29 May 2023 - ed.]. " Details: According to the mayor, before the full-scale invasion of Russia, about 80,000 people lived on the territory of the Bakhmut hromada [an administrative unit designating a town, villages or several villages and their adjacent territories ed.], among whom 70,000 were residents of Bakhmut. As of 29 May, about 500 people remain in the city. Background: Russian invaders began fighting for the city of Bakhmut, Donetsk Oblast, on 1 August 2023. As of 31 May, the city is almost completely destroyed, but intense battles for control over the city continue. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! An 18-year-old Paso Robles High School student was arrested Tuesday after he allegedly wrote a message in the boys bathroom threatening to shoot up the school, the police said in a news release. Paso Robles High School safety staff found a message written in marker inside a bathroom stall that claimed a shooting would occur at the school on Wednesday. The message was considered hate speech, the release said. The Paso Robles Police Department takes all threats of this nature very seriously, the release said. An investigation was immediately initiated. Officers responded to the school around 12:30 p.m., the release said. Paso Robles police school resource officers and school safety staff quickly identified the suspect as Paso Robles High School student Levi Harrington. According to the release, officers found there was no imminent threat to the school, students or faculty after an investigation that included a search of Harringtons residence. Police said Harrington was immediately taken into custody and booked into the San Luis Obispo County Jail on suspicion of two felony charges: Criminal threats and hate crime. According to the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Offices online inmate database, Harrington is no longer in custody. The investigation is ongoing, and police are asking anyone with information to call 805-237-6464 or, to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers 24-hour hotline at 805-549-STOP (7867) or text SLOTIPS with your message to CRIMES (274637). Peace summit expected to be held prior to NATO summit in July: Russia not invited Ukraine and its allies are preparing to hold a summit to discuss Kyivs 10-point Peace Formula with the participation of the representatives of Brazil, India and China, countries that have offered to mediate to bring an end to the full-scale war. Source: The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) Details: Western diplomats involved in the preparation of the peace summit hope to hold it before the meeting of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation leaders in Vilnius, scheduled for 11-12 July. The location has not yet been decided, but Sweden and Denmark have publicly expressed their intention to host it. According to the WSJ, French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed his willingness to hold the peace summit in Paris. The final list of participants in the Peace Formula summit is as yet unknown, but European officials hope to invite leaders of non-Western countries, including Brazil, India, and China, which have previously offered to mediate between Kyiv and Moscow. An official told the WSJ that there are hopes that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the summit, but there is much less certainty about Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Another European diplomat said on condition of anonymity that "everyone" but Russia will be invited to participate in the summit. Previously: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that a peace summit could be held in July to mark 500 days since the beginning of Russias full-scale war against Ukraine. Andrii Yermak, the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, said that Ukraine was interested in holding a peace summit as soon as possible to support the implementation of the Peace Formula proposed by Kyiv and added that he would like to see leaders from the Global South attend. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! The Defense Department said the latest shipments will bring the total value of US security assistance to Ukraine to $37.6 billion since Russia's February 2022 invasion The United States announced a new $300 million arms package for Ukraine on Wednesday, including air defense systems and tens of millions of rounds of ammunition, but warned Kyiv that US weaponry should not be used to attack within Russia. "We have been very clear with the Ukrainians privately -- weve certainly been clear publicly -- that we do not support attacks inside Russia. We do not enable and we do not encourage attacks inside Russia," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters. The Defense Department said the latest shipments will bring the total value of US security assistance to Ukraine to $37.6 billion since Russia's February 2022 launch of the invasion. "The United States will continue to work with its allies and partners to provide Ukraine with capabilities to meet its immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements," the Pentagon said in a statement. The United States has been leading an unprecedented effort by NATO and other allied countries to supply Ukraine with weaponry and other aid. The latest arms shipments come as Ukraine prepares a counter-offensive aimed at driving Russian forces back from swaths of occupied territory in the east and south of the country. The assistance also comes after a spate of attacks made in shadowy circumstances on targets inside Russia itself, including an unprecedented barrage of drone attacks on Moscow. Kirby said the United States has laid out its ground rules to Ukraine. We don't tell them where to strike. We don't tell them where not to strike, he said. Ultimately, President (Volodymyr) Zelensky and his military commanders decide what they're going to do. However, "we certainly dont want to see attacks inside Russia that are being propagated, that are being conducted, using US-supplied equipment." Kirby said that despite the growing tensions over the issue, the White House remains confident that Ukraine will keep its promise not to use US-built F-16 warplanes -- set to be supplied by European countries -- against targets beyond Ukrainian borders. "We have gotten that assurance at various levels," Kirby said. Kirby said that while Washington is fullheartedly backing the Ukrainian effort to defeat the Russian invasion, it wants to avoid situations that "suck in the West and NATO and the United States" and to "avoid World War III." The Pentagon said the $300 million package includes munitions for Patriot air defense systems, AIM-7 air defense missiles, Avenger air defense systems and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles. Also part of the package is ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds, 105mm tank ammunition and Zuni aircraft rockets. The United States is also sending more than 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition to Ukraine, the Pentagon said. cl-sms/nro The Scene Aravind Srinivas, co-founder and CEO of Perplexity, has been at the forefront of trying to shake up online search, with the help of advances in artificial intelligence. Semafor has been tracking those developments in past stories. Now hes talking to online platforms like Instacart about ways to incorporate a conversational search engine with commerce. If that effort is successful, the results could be profound. Say you want to buy something: First, you start with a Google search. You end up at Wirecutter. Then you go to Amazon and read a bunch of reviews. Once youve decided what you want to buy, you go back to Google and try to find the best price. Then you go to another web site and order it. Every one of those sites has ads, the digital oil that powers a big chunk of our economy. Now imagine all of that happens in the form of a conversation. Maybe you dont even look at a screen. Thats what Perplexity and other companies are trying to build. Srinivas talks about those efforts and more below in an edited conversation. The View From Aravind Srinivas Q: How did you come up with the idea for Perplexity? A: We were passionate about search and we thought one of the best ways language models could be useful is in summarization, where it takes the relevant aspects of the query and summarizes them. Then ChatGPT came out and people were comparing ChatGPT to Google and saying ChatGPT was better. That gave me the conviction that people are really looking for this service. We launched right away, at first on Discord. Q: How does Perplexity work? How do you ensure the answers are accurate? A: When a user asks a question, the search engine pulls up relevant web pages. The language model then reads through those pages and crafts an answer, providing citations to relevant sources. We focus on citing authoritative, high-page rank sources to ensure accuracy. The language model is also prompted to provide an unbiased and journalistic tone and only use information from the search results. If there are conflicting answers from different sources, Perplexity will provide separate answers for each. Q: So its like a very elaborate ChatGPT prompt? A: You can just prompt it. We didn't train anything on that. Thats the magic about this. Q: So is the prompt your secret sauce? A: No, everyones prompts leak. One of our old prompts leaked on Hacker News. Q: So youre relying more on network effects and that kind of thing to keep people using the product? A: Yeah, were adding new features and products all the time. Q: Do you worry about being somewhat reliant on OpenAI? A: I think we should be concerned about it, but there is a good amount of competition in the market. Q: Tell me about this new co-pilot feature? A: We developed the co-pilot feature during a company hackathon in Denver. We looked at how to use GPT-4 to provide answers to harder questions that require research and clarification. The co-pilot follows up the users initial question with clarifying questions to better determine what they need. It then provides a comprehensive, tailored answer based on their responses. The co-pilot is designed to work with the user rather than autonomously provide an answer. Q: How do you see AI assistants and search evolving in the future? Are subscriptions the future? A: AI assistants and search will fundamentally change how people interact with computers. Assistants will increasingly work together with humans to provide answers and complete tasks. However, human agency and oversight will remain important. A subscription model for search is possible as search evolves to provide more value. As search engines gain the ability to understand complex questions and provide time-saving answers, people may be willing to pay for that additional value and experience. A subscription model also benefits search engines by allowing them to focus on user needs rather than advertising. Some people may continue using free, ad-based search options, but subscriptions could appeal to certain segments. Q: Do you see advertising being a part of search in the future? A: When a person is talking to a chatbot or a conversational search engine and trying to directly seek answers to precisely targeted queries, companies probably dont even need to advertise, because we would already pull up the more relevant data and surface it to the user. A platform like Shopify or Instacart could let merchants reach the end user in an even more targeted way. In this new world, where ads are just going to be citations, people should just put more effort into having well-documented information about them on the internet and an LLM can parse it on the fly. I feel like this might make the world better in some sense. Why do you need to advertise if an LLM can just go read about you and what youre saying? Youre just part of the index, so make sure you build a good product and people will automatically know. I actually dont know what's going to happen, but its fun to think about. Q: Are we headed to a place where AI search engines will start taking actions for us? For instance, do you think that eventually when people are doing research for their trip to Paris or whatever, theyll want Perplexity to start actually booking the travel for them? A: We would love to do that. The part of helping the human to arrive at the price and the time and like, like the activities to do in Paris, that's the hard part. The actual booking of a ticket is so easy. People would have to approve each purchase once all the details are there. So that's basically what we want to enable over time. Q: Arent there roadblocks there that are not so much about technology. For instance, incumbent booking services are going to want people to go through their platforms, right? A: Weve been talking to Klarna and Instacart, so I think people are pretty interested in partnering with us. Q: So Perplexity would have an Instacart API or something that would allow the order to occur and Perplexity would get a commission? A: We haven't talked through details like this. The first step is to make the experience really good. It's mostly an early prototype. The point I'm trying to make is the traditional ideas of hey, I'm only going to work with you if I get the traffic, those days are gone. Its mostly like, hey, let's try to give our users the best possible experience. If you can enable that, it's a win-win. That's how people are thinking about it. Person fatally struck by train near city park Tuesday was Bellingham High School student A Bellingham High School student was killed by a freight train Tuesday evening, apparently near a trestle in Little Squalicum Park. A BNSF Railway spokeswoman confirmed that a train killed someone about 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, but provided few details, including age and gender of the victim and how the death occurred. Unfortunately, there was a person struck and fatally injured, BNSFs Lena Kent told The Bellingham Herald in an email. Kent said the incident was under investigation. The student was not immediately identified, but Bellingham Schools spokeswoman Dana Smith did confirm that the victim was a student at Bellingham High. We have communicated with staff, students and families this morning and have additional counseling support on site at Bellingham High School, Smith said in an email. Bellingham Police didnt respond to emailed questions seeking additional information. The BNSF tracks where a Bellingham High School student was killed Tuesday night. But the Pulse Point emergency services app showed an incident at 640 Marine Drive near Little Squalicum Park. Emergency radio conversations archived at the Broadcastify app indicated that a teenage girl had been struck by a train, and that police and firefighters were trying to locate her. Photos on social media showed two Bellingham Fire ambulances parked near the beach, with a train carrying oil tankers stopped on the trestle above. Kent didnt provide a precise location but said the incident was not at a crossing. This is the first reported fatality on the tracks since March when a man was fatally struck south of Boulevard Park, shutting down rail service for several hours. That death was ruled a suicide. This story will be updated. [Source] The Senate of the Philippines has approved a bill to grant Filipino citizenship to Canadian vlogger Kyle Douglas Jennerman. Jennerman, who is behind the YouTube channel BecomingFilipino, now awaits President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to sign House Bill 7185 into law to officially become a Filipino. On Monday, the senate unanimously approved the bill, which was passed from the House of Representatives, during a third and final reading. Jennerman took to Instagram to celebrate the news. I couldn't be more excited. Being 35 years old right now... in the prime of my life. I am filled with so much inspiration and motivation. So much love! Being immersed and connected with the Filipino community both here in the country and around the world. It just fills me with so much optimism... the positive things we can do together. I am so grateful. The things people shared about #BecomingFilipino in Senate yesterday... it was beyond overwhelming. I need a few days to reflect right now. More from NextShark: San Francisco's Chinatown to introduce multilingual parking pay stations https://www.instagram.com/p/Cs2g-o2Sa98/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MmJiY2I4NDBkZg== Jennerman, who is more popularly known as Kulas, has amassed over a million subscribers on his YouTube channel, where he has documented his adventures in the Philippines since 2013. From trying exotic food to speaking fluent Tagalog, Jennerman has gained appreciation for Filipino culture through immersion. More from NextShark: Thai cadets perform record-breaking Muay Thai wai khru ceremony He really wants to be a Filipino. And he is not some fair-weather friend who loves us only for our scenic spots and hospitality, but would turn a blind eye to our identity, culture, and our language. He freely chose to enter into our world, Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, who co-sponsored the bill, told Inquirer.net. Jennerman meets the countrys criteria for naturalization. He has lived in the country for at least 10 years, and he also demonstrates proficiency in English and Filipino. More from NextShark: Meet the Indian CEO of the Nevada Clown Motel That Will Give You Nightmares You have already done so much to promote our country and our culture to Filipinos and foreign nationals alike. We look forward to your future contributions as you champion the country that you now call your home, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said. Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! New State Department program lets private citizens directly sponsor refugees in US (Bloomberg) -- The Philippines Congress has approved the creation of the Southeast Asian nations first sovereign wealth fund, a measure pushed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. who now needs to sign it into law. Most Read from Bloomberg The House of Representatives adopted the version of the Senate, hours after the latter passed a bill creating the Maharlika Investment Fund which proponents say will help prop up the economy following a crippling pandemic. Some critics say the measure was ill-timed and its swift passage had political undertones. We need to pump prime our economy, Senator Mark Villar, who authored the Senate bill, said in a briefing on Wednesday. Earlier in the day, the sovereign wealth fund measure was passed with 19 senators voting in favor, one against, one abstaining while three were absent. Marcos last week said theres an urgent need for a sustainable national investment fund that should help finance large-scale infrastructure projects to spur economic activity. The House approved the bill, which aims to tap and securitize dividends from state-owned companies, in December. House Speaker Martin Romualdez said both chambers of Congress agreed on a version of the Maharlika Fund aimed at boosting the economy by making strategic and profitable investments. Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said the fund will be invested in a wide range of assets, including foreign currencies, fixed-income instruments, domestic and foreign corporate bonds, joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, real estate and infrastructure projects. The economic team is committed to ensure that the entity created will be able to generate returns that will redound to inclusive and sustainable economic growth, Diokno said in a statement. A corporate body, Maharlika Investment Corporation, will be set up to manage the fund and will have an authorized capital stock of 500 billion pesos ($8.9 billion), according to the Senate version of the measure. An initial 125 billion pesos worth of common stocks would be subscribed by the government, with 50 billion pesos coming from Land Bank of the Philippines and 25 billion pesos from the Development Bank of the Philippines. It also identifies central bank dividends, gaming agency income and proceeds from privatization of government assets as other sources of funding. But the final version of the bill explicity prohibits state companies providing social security and public health insurance from contributing to and investing in the fund, Diokno said in the statement. That includes state pension funds Social Security System and Government Service Insurance System, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and Home Development Mutual Fund. Marcos said money from pension funds will not be used as seed fund, but if the pension fund decides the Maharlika Fund is a good investment, its up to them if they want to invest in it. Opposition Senator Risa Hontiveros, who voted against the bill, said a sovereign wealth fund will make sense sometime in the medium term, perhaps when we have the surpluses, adding it would be better to inject capital into state-run companies so they can invest in areas shunned by the private sector like modernizing public transport. The quick passage of the bill was a political move, former Economic Planning Secretary Winnie Monsod said. They passed it in such a hurry...the public never had a chance to look at it. And that scares me, Monsod told ABS-CBN News Channel. (Recasts and adds details throughout.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Photo of the day: Honoring the past, looking to the future Members of the Utah National Guard 23rd Army Band salute during a Memorial Day commemoration event at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, May 29, 2023. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News Gov. Spencer Cox and other elected Utah officials joined in honoring those who have served their country in peacetime and during conflict during a Memorial Day commemoration service early Monday at the Capitol. Under blue skies and warm weather, the governor offered a tribute with those who have gone before. The reason we live in the greatest nation in the history of the world is because we were the first and only nation that was formed on an idea, Cox said. It wasnt just about historic boundaries ... it was not that at all. It was that we were fighting for an idea. And that idea, it was a profound idea, it was a radical idea: this idea that all of us are created equal. And those rights do not come from government, he continued. Were born with those rights from on high. ... And that idea, just that idea, changed the course of human history. And heres the thing, we didnt just believe that Americans were born with those freedoms, we believe that all humankind Black, white, brown, green, red, purple all of us were born with these rights. Other speakers included 1st District Rep. Blake Moore, who spoke of Americas role as a stabilizing force in the world, and those who have served their country. Rep. Burgess Owens, 4th District, also attended the gathering, along with representatives of the Utah National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces stationed in Utah. Utah National Guards 23rd Army Band also performed at the service. Cox also paid tribute to some of the Utahns who have been killed recently while serving in Afghanistan. The United States flag is seen above retired U.S Marine Corps Sgt. Randy Beal during a Memorial Day commemoration event at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, May 29, 2023. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News Members of the Utah National Guard 23rd Army Band perform during a Memorial Day commemoration event at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, May 29, 2023. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News Utah government and military leaders, including Congressman Burgess Owens, left, Congressman Blake Moore, center, and Gov. Spencer Cox, right, observe a moment of silence during a Memorial Day commemoration event at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, May 29, 2023. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News American flags are displayed during a Memorial Day event at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, May 29, 2023. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News Utah officials including Gov. Spencer Cox, Rep. Blake Moore, R-Utah, and Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, sit during a Memorial Day commemoration event at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, May 29, 2023. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News Utah Gov. Spencer Cox speaks during a Memorial Day commemoration at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, May 29, 2023. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News Servicemembers stand during a Memorial Day commemoration event at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, May 29, 2023. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News A tattoo of retired U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Joann Haines is seen during a Memorial Day commemoration event at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Monday, May 29, 2023. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News Pieper Lewis gets 20-year sentence, but then is placed on probation again Des Moines sex-trafficking victim Pieper Lewis will get a third chance but with a manslaughter conviction on her record and a lengthy prison sentence awaiting if she slips up again. Lewis, who violated her probation by leaving a transitional facility without permission, appeared in court for a hearing Wednesday almost three years to the day since the then-15-year-old stabbed to death Zachary Brooks, 37, in the early hours of June 1, 2020, after he raped her. Polk County Judge David M. Porter revoked a deferred judgment he gave Lewis, now 18, in September on felony counts of voluntary manslaughter and willful injury and sentenced her to 20 years behind bars. But he then suspended the sentence and placed her on five years' probation, as he had previously, to be served at a location yet to be determined. He also gave her a time-served sentence for her guilty plea to an escape charge in connection with her unauthorized departure from the center where she had been sent to serve her probationary term. Pieper Lewis, a Des Moines sex trafficking victim who gained national prominence after being ordered to pay $150,000 to the estate of her rapist, appeared in court Wednesday May 31, 2023. Pieper Lewis, a Des Moines sex trafficking victim who gained national prominence after being ordered to pay $150,000 to the estate of her rapist, appeared in court Wednesday May 31, 2023. Though Brooks' father shouted profanities in the courtroom after Porter pronounced his ruling, Lewis displayed no emotion. It was clear, however, that she had gotten a break. In the nationally publicized September decision, the judge had warned Lewis that she was getting a "second chance" and warned she wouldn't get a third. He said he stood by that pledge in his ruling, which split the difference between recommendations by the Iowa Department of Corrections and her defense attorneys. The department, via Lewis' probation officer, asked that the deferred judgment be revoked and she be sent to prison, while her lawyers said the deferred judgment and her probation should continue. Porter said that with the judgment revoked, Lewis is now a convicted felon with two felonies on her record and is prohibited from owning firearms and voting and is subject to other limitations. Polk County Attorney Kimberly Graham, who argued against sending Lewis to prison, said she supported Porter's decision. "Ms. Lewis is not at high risk for violence. She would be especially vulnerable to being revictimized should she remain incarcerated," Graham said in a statement following the hearing, adding that the renewed probation will allow Lewis to pursue more effective treatment. "The State believes she will succeed." Pieper Lewis: 'I need to go forward' Lewis originally was charged with first-degree murder in Brooks' death. The charges were reduced after a Des Moines Register investigation revealed that at the time of the killing, the teen runaway had been taken in by a small-time musician turned pimp who sexually abused her and had sent her to Brooks in exchange for marijuana. Prosecutors last fall concurred with the decision to allow probation for Lewis, who has said she wants to become an advocate for trafficking victims. Lewis was sent to Fresh Start for Women, a Des Moines transitional facility for women getting out of prison, because Iowa has lacked a facility for girls charged with serious crimes since the 2014 closing of the state-run Iowa Juvenile Home in Toledo. The shutdown followed a Register investigation that revealed youths there had been kept in isolation cells for months at a time while being denied adequate education. Lewis said in court Wednesday that she lost her sense of direction at Fresh Start. She noted that she was returned under probation to the community two weeks after her case became a national news story. "I just need to heal by myself and heal with the community later on and then tell my story instead of trying to rush everything," Lewis said. "Some of the choices at Fresh Start were either responses of trauma or responses of old habits. I need to know that it's not time for me to go backwards. I need to go forward and continue to move forward." In a March interview with the Register, Lewis, held in the Polk County Jail since her arrest, said she had felt unsafe at Fresh Start and cut off from therapy and her job at a downtown pizzeria while quarantined with roommates who had COVID-19. She also said she was struggling in a facility filled with people stuck in a criminal lifestyle and drug use. "My routine was all out of whack," Lewis said. "All my support systems, I didn't really have them like I did. I liked going to work. I liked going to therapy. I liked being outside. Being trapped in a room again kind of reminded me of my past life. "It made me feel like I was locked up again," added Lewis, who spent about two years in juvenile detention after her arrest in Brooks' death. "So I felt like I had to take matters into my own hands for my safety." Witnesses for Lewis: Prison is the wrong place for her On Wednesday, Lewis' attorneys had a clear theme they wanted their witnesses to hammer home: Prison would not be a good place to send her. John Romero Jr., a retired juvenile court district court judge in Albuquerque, New Mexico, testified that Lewis needs to go to a gender-specific program that is age appropriate and is tailored to her needs. He said human traffickers often tell their victims that unless they comply, they will end up in an even worse situation, such as going to prison. "Incarceration or detention is another fulfillment of the prophecy that exploiters tell them. Are we any different than the trafficker by taking away their voice, by telling them when you can get up, when to get up, when you go to bed, when to spend time outdoors?... We're the ones that continue to exploit and do the opposite of protecting the public and rehabilitating an individual." Also testifying was Yasmin Vafa, executive director of the nonprofit Rights4Girls, who in an April report with Rebecca Epstein, executive director of the Georgetown Law School Center on Gender Justice & Opportunity, recommended that policymakers end the punishment of girls who act against abusers in self-defense. Vafa told Porter it is common for sex trafficking victims to run away from threatening situations. "When were dealing with young teens, they can act out, but its important to ask ourselves: Is this drama or trauma manifesting?" Vafa said. "Most of the time with this population, its trauma. Running is an avoidant behavior, and its a form of self preservation. Like Vafa, Teresa Davidson, co-founder and CEO of Cedar Rapids anti-trafficking organization Chains Interrupted, said victims need highly structured therapeutic programs that take them out of the environments where they were trafficked. Fresh Start, blocks from where Lewis had lived with the musician, was not equipped to address Lewis needs, Davidson said. She said prison doesn't end abusive relationships, and that traffickers can target incarcerated people by grooming them and forming relationships through letter writing. They also can "fill a need" by putting money in victims' commissary accounts or sending gifts through the mail. "Then when the person gets out of prison, then they're there to say, 'You owe me now. I did all this for you,' or, 'I was the only one that was there for you. You owe me,'" she said. "Or they form that relationship and they feel dependent on them and they take them off into exploitation." In Des Moines, she said, Lewis had another obstacle because, wearing a court-ordered ankle monitor, she stuck out while commuting by bus to and from work. "Its hard to blend in when youre wearing such a thing," Davidson said, pointing out that Lewis also had trouble because of the wide media coverage of her case. Given her notoriety, the location of the facility that will treat Lewis during her second try at probation should not be made public, Davidson said. Graham, the county attorney, recommended that the facility be "outside of central Iowa." Probation officer says Lewis should be locked up Testifying for the prosecution, Lewis' probation officer, Emma Dedic, said the Iowa Department of Corrections recommended revoking the deferred judgment and sending Lewis to prison. When Lewis was arrested after her Nov. 4 escape, she attempted to run from the officers who arrested her, picked off her handcuffs in the squad car on the way to the Polk County Jail and tried to push through an officer to get out of jail. "Her behavior alone, and the disturbances she had, just show that she was not appropriate for community corrections," Dedic said. But Graham recommended that Lewis be placed on probation because she did not harm anyone during the time she was away from Fresh Start and was found by officers in the same neighborhood she had left, sitting on a swing in a park. She also recommended that Lewis, as Porter ruled, be given credit for the six months she served at the Polk County Jail after her arrest on the escape charge. Polk County Attorney Kimberly Graham listens during a court hearing for Pieper Lewis in Des Moines, May 31, 2023. Graham who took office in January said she arrived at her recommendation after meeting with Lewis last week. Like the defense witnesses, Graham said trafficking victims who are exploited and sent to prison are vulnerable and more likely to become victims again. With the right support, trafficking victims can lead successful lives, she said. "After that conversation with Ms. Lewis and her counsel, we discussed the plan, the recommendations that her attorneys were making and that I was considering also making," Graham said, smiling at Lewis. "I believe in her sincerity and her commitment to work that plan. I believe Ms. Lewis when she said she is committed to the plan that we've all recommended, and I believe she will see it through." Judge: 'What I'm looking for is progress' Porter expressed skepticism. He pointed out that, against the advice of her therapist and other people trying to help her, Lewis in the past three months had given interviews to The Des Moines Register and KCCI-TV and reached out to national media. Lewis' attorney, Matthew Sheeley, acknowledged her behavior was problematic, but told Porter that sex trafficking victims commonly try to talk to reporters to advocate for themselves. "I don't think anyone is asking for perfection," Porter retorted. "What I'm looking for is progress. Understanding that the need to speak out publicly, from every professional who knows Ms. Lewis, says it's a bad idea, but she does it anyway, how is that progress?" He also noted that she had at one point sought to fire Sheeley and her other attorneys, Magdalena Reese and Paul White. Lewis recanted her request in a May 5 hearing, but Porter said that showed she was willing to walk away from the team who supported her. Sheeley responded that "this whole endeavor requires patience." "Thats what were asking the court to do here is recognize that some patience may be needed before we can see progress," he said. Lewis wants pardon from Gov. Kim Reynolds Lewis has one other option: She told KCCI-TV last week that she's asked for a pardon from Gov. Kim Reynolds. An online petition in support of a pardon, started by Black Liberation Movement member Jalesha Johnson, recounted Lewis' story and noted that when, under Iowa law, Lewis was ordered as part of her September sentence to pay Brooks' estate $150,000, people around the country chipped in to raise far more than that amount. "All of America was in an outrage at how unjustly Iowa was treating her," said the petition, signed by more than 1,100 people as of Wednesday. "It is our hope, all the people who shared her story, donated to her cause and raised awareness will once again wrap their hands around Pieper Lewis." But Kollin Crompton, Reynolds' spokesperson, said in a statement this week, "The Governors Office has not received a formal pardon application from Pieper Lewis. Philip Joens covers retail, real estate, public safety and RAGBRAI for the Des Moines Register. He can be reached at 515-284-8184, pjoens@registermedia.com or on Twitter @Philip_Joens. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Des Moines sex trafficking victim Pieper Lewis gets probation again The presence of pine martens in Northern Ireland has almost doubled in five years, according to a new survey. Ulster Wildlife said the priority species is undergoing a "phenomenal resurgence". Pine martens are now present in all six counties, marking a significant expansion beyond their traditional stronghold in County Fermanagh. It is hoped their recovery will boost the red squirrel which has held its population numbers. Considered one of Northern Ireland's rarest native mammals, the pine marten is a cat-sized carnivore related to the stoat. Ulster Wildlife's 2022 survey of pine martens and squirrels was carried out across 218 woodlands in Northern Ireland using camera traps and feeders with participation from 15 partners including National Trust and Mourne Heritage Trust. It found that pine martens were present in almost double the number of sites compared to a previous survey five years ago. The survey also shows that the number of woodlands surveyed with red squirrels present remains comparable to 2017, suggesting that the population is holding steady at a landscape-scale. The survey also shows the red squirrel population is holding steady Ulster Wildlife said its latest findings indicate a "remarkable turnaround". "It's fantastic to see pine martens spreading and returning to areas where they haven't been seen for many years," said priority species officer Ross McIlwrath. He hopes the pine marten's recovery will boost red squirrel populations, which were previously decimated by the introduction of grey squirrels from North America in the 19th Century. Research from Queen's University Belfast shows differing responses from both species when exposed to pine marten scent. Grey squirrels do not change their behaviour or become more vigilant, therefore leaving them more vulnerable to the predator. This is known as "the pine marten effect". The survey shows that the presence of the grey squirrel has declined slightly since 2017, most notably in woodlands surveyed in the west. County Fermanagh has maintained its status as an area free from grey squirrels. "We are seeing that in areas with a strong pine marten presence, greys are retracting. "Red squirrels have adapted to live alongside these native predators, unlike their non-native counterparts," Mr McIlwrath added. The "pine marten effect" has seen a slight decline in grey squirrel numbers However, he warned against complacency as red squirrels are still threatened by the grey's presence and habitat destruction. "Many red squirrels have disappeared from small areas of woodlands and urban areas, and have become increasingly isolated and fragmented," he said. "We need to continue to work with partners, landowners and local conservation groups to control the spread of greys, create a more connected landscape to allow reds to spread and recover, and ensure continued long-term monitoring of these three species." Curtis Anthony Howard, a man previously reported missing, has been found and is safe, according to Pittsburgh police. Police thank everyone who has shared his information to help locate him. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: Violent Memorial Day weekend in Pittsburgh: 4 hurt in 3 separate shootings, including children 2 people found shot to death at park-and-ride in Muddy Creek Township LIVE UPDATES: Pittsburgh synagogue shooting trial begins VIDEO: New vaccine could reduce melanoma recurrence DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts The gunman accused of murdering 11 in a mass shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in 2018 is now on trial in a federal courtroom in Pittsburgh. On 27 October 2018, Robert Bowers, then 46, entered the synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood armed with three handguns, an AR-15 rifle, and a trove of magazines and ammunition. Inside, he opened fire on congregants in what marks the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history. Eight men and three women aged from 54 to 97 died in the massacre. After numerous delays, the now-50-year-old is finally standing trial for more than 60 federal charges including obstruction of free exercise of religion resulting in death and hate crimes resulting in death. During opening arguments on Tuesday, Mr Bowers attorneys admitted that he was responsible for the massacre but claimed that he acted on an irrational motive and had misguided intent. Prosecutors meanwhile pointed out that, in the months leading up the shooting, the suspect was spewing bigoted and antisemitic vitriol online. If convicted, he could face the death penalty. Key points Robert Bowers on trial for 2018 mass shooting 11 victims killed in Tree of Life synagogue shooting Bowers faces death penalty if convicted ICYMI: Exhibits from the shooting 15:28 , Graig Graziosi The court released images of many of the subjects we wrote about yesterday: https://t.co/hlBnuc0Fd6 The prayer book with a bullet hole The Torah rescued from the holocaust The bathroom that Rabbi Jeffrey Myers hid in The Torah arc that reads "Tree of Life" in Hebrew pic.twitter.com/1TzRFQER1j Oliver Morrison (@ORMorrison) May 31, 2023 Trial day 2 begins 14:46 , Graig Graziosi Day two of the trial of Robert Bowers has begun in Pittsburgh. Judge Robert Colville noted to attendees that a visitor to the courtroom yesterday was diagnosed with Covid-19. The judge assured those in attendance that the courtroom was cleaned and well ventilated. Bowers faces death penalty if convicted 14:00 , Rachel Sharp If convicted, Robert Bowers could face the death penalty. His attorneys had previously requested a plea deal for him to plead guilty in exchange for the death penalty being taken off the table. Prosecutors rejected the request, paving the way for the case to head to trial. Opening arguments: The defence 13:40 , Rachel Sharp In her opening statement, Robert Bowers attorney Judy Clarke admitted that he went to Tree of Life in 2018 and shot every person he saw and said that there is no making sense of this senseless act. Mr Bowers caused extraordinary harm to many, many people. But Ms Clarke suggested that in Mr Bowers mind, he genuinely believed was trying to help people by targeting Jews. Mr Bowers lawyers have also claimed that he has epilepsy and schizophrenia. Whether Mr Bowers would actually be killed by the state if convicted remains to be seen. President Joe Biden voiced his opposition to the death penalty when he ran for president in 2020, and Attorney General Merrick Garland placed a moritorium on all federal executions two years ago. Opening arguments: The prosecution 13:20 , Rachel Sharp In the prosecutions opening statement, lead prosecutor Soo C. Song told jurors that Robert Bowers was motivated by his hatred of Jewish people. Pointing to social media posts made before the massacre, Ms Song said that the defendant wanted to destroy, to kill and to defile Jews. Jews are a cancer on the planet, Jews are evil creatures, Jews are pedophiles, he had posted online before the attack. That day, he then drove to the majority Jewish neighbourhood with an trove of weapons. Once he entered the synagogue the defendant began to hunt, he moved from room to room, upstairs and downstairs looking for Jewish worshippers to kill, she said. The prosecutor described the attack in graphic detail, including how Mr Bowers shot one woman in the face as she tried to protect her daughter. Pittsburgh Jewish community monitoring hate speech amid trial 13:00 , Rachel Sharp The head of security for Pittsburghs Jewish community says there has been an uptick in hate speech on the internet, but no specific threats, in the early stages of the trial of the man accused of killing 11 worshippers at a synagogue here in 2018. And Jewish leaders say that while the trial is bringing out the worst of extremists in some dark corners of the web, its also brought an outpouring of support from the community ranging from law enforcement agencies helping with security to local food vendors collaborating to bring meals to victims families during the trial. Shawn Brokos, director of community security for the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, said officials have monitored general chatter in support of the defendant ... and his hateful vitriol on the internet. The materials would turn anyones stomach, she said. Read more here: Pittsburgh Jewish community monitoring hate speech amid trial of suspect in synagogue massacre Who were the victims? 12:45 , Rachel Sharp The shooting at Tree of Life traumatised the historically Jewish Squirrel Hill community and Jews across the nation. Eleven people were killed during the shooting and seven more were injured. The first people killed were the brothers Cecil and David Rosenthal. Jerry Rabinowitz, a physician, was killed after moving towards the sound of the shooting to see if anyone needed medical assistance. The shooting was the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history, and it carried a particular edge given that it was linked to HIAS work protecting and resettling refugees work born out of the Jewish experience of persecution in Europe in the decades leading up to the Holocaust. The people who lost their lives in the shooting were: Joyce Fienberg, 75, Richard Gottfried, 65, Rose Mallinger, 97, Jerry Rabinowitz, 66, Cecil and David Rosenthal, 59 and 54, Bernice and Sylvan Simon, 84 and 86, Daniel Stein, 71, Melvin Wax, 88, and Irving Younger, 69. Who is Robert Bowers? The alleged antisemite on trial for Tree of Life synagogue shooting 12:30 , Rachel Sharp On 27, October, 2018, Robert Bowers, then 46, allegedly walked into the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and began shooting at worshippers. He allegedly killed 11 people before he was shot and wounded and surrendered to police. Mr Bowers now faces 63 federal counts, including 11 counts each of obstruction of free exercise of religion resulting in death as well as hate crimes resulting in death. He could face the death penalty if convicted. He has pleaded not guilty. So who is Robert Bowers? Find out here: Who is Robert Bowers: Alleged antisemite on trial for Tree of Life synagogue shooting Robert Bowers pushed the Great Replacement theory and made antisemitic posts before shooting 12:25 , Rachel Sharp Robert Bowers was verbose online where he was radicalised and trafficked in white nationalist conspiracy theories. Mr Bowers was a heavy user of the far right social networking platform Gab, where he promoted the Great Replacement theory and made antisemitic and racist posts. Shortly before the shooting, Mr Bowers ranted against the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) for sponsoring a National Refugee Shabbat. HIAS likes to bring invaders in that kill our people, Mr Bowers wrote on the platform. I cant sit by and watch my people get slaughtered. Screw your optics, Im going in. The shooting 12:20 , Rachel Sharp On 27 October 2018, Robert Bowers entered the synagogue where three separate services were underway involving the three different congregations that practised there, and began shooting. The shooting reportedly lasted for roughly 20 mintues. Mr Bowers was allegedly armed with an assault rifle and three semi-automatic pistols. When police arrived at the synagogue about 10 minutes after Mr Bowers entered, he shot at them. He later engaged tactical teams who arrived at the synagogue in a fire fight, fleeing to a room on the third floor of the building after he was wounded. Finally, nearly an hour-and-a-half after he entered the synagogue, Mr Bowers surrendered to law enforcement and recieved medical care for his gunshot wounds. He reportedly told a SWAT officer after surrendering that he wanted all Jews to die. Who is Robert Bowers? 12:14 , Rachel Sharp Robert Bowers, born in 1972, was 46 years old at the time of the shooting. He had, by multiple accounts, a challenging childhood. His parents divorced when he was around one year old, and his father, Randall Bowers, died by suicide while awaiting trial on a rape charge six or so years later. Mr Bowers was raised in large part by his grandparents in the Pittsburgh suburb of Whitehall and attended Baldwin High School for several years before dropping out and becoming a trucker. Mr Bowers colleagues and neighbours largely described him in the aftermath of the shooting as quiet and not memorable. One toldThe New York Times that she couldnt even remember his name. Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting What we know about the Tree of Life shooting 12:09 , Rachel Sharp The trial of Robert Bowers, the man charged with perpetrating the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history at the Tree of Life synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh in 2018, began with opening statements on Tuesday. Mr Bowers, who is charged with 63 criminal counts, could face the death penalty if convicted. Here is a rundown of what we know about him and the crimes he is charged with committing. Heres what you need to know about the case: Everything we know about Robert Bowers, defendant in the Tree of Life shooting Welcome to The Independents liveblog 12:06 , Rachel Sharp Follow all the latest updates here on the trial of Robert Bowers, the man accused of murdering 11 in a shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in 2018 richard collins - swns/Naomi Stanton A police officer who arrested a nudist for sitting naked on a bench has been reported to his own force. The off-duty Metropolitan Police officer arrested Richard Collins, a member of British Naturism and the founder of Naturists UK, in Hastings, East Sussex, on May 13. Mr Collins claims that he was harassed and assaulted by the officer. He complained to Sussex Police and the Metropolitan Police is now considering whether the officers actions need to be investigated. Mr Collins said he refused to put his clothes on when the policeman flashed his ID and ordered him to get dressed. Instead, he quoted College of Policing guidelines on being naked in public, which state activities such as walking or sunbathing naked are lawful where there is no element of sexual behaviour or intent to cause distress. However, the officer told the nudist he was committing a crime and called 999, it is claimed. The off-duty officer is alleged to have told his superiors that children were distressed by Mr Collins nudity, which the naturist refutes. He claimed Sussex Police subsequently sent three patrol cars and at least six officers before the incident was stood down. Mr Collins said: I have sat naked at this location on several occasions over the past fortnight for up to two hours each time without incident. He also claimed a couple had stopped to talk to him and werent at all bothered by my nakedness. Mr Collins said that, following the incident, the officer would not allow him to leave the area and claimed he was unreasonable and aggressive. The nudist said he called emergency services to report that he was being harassed by a police officer. He claimed: He [the Met officer] was taken to one side by the senior officer. It was then explained to me that the Met Police officer had misused his powers while off duty and there was a case to report him. Im having unpleasant flashbacks to the situation and feel my confidence has been affected. My thanks go to Sussex Police for acting in a professional, unbiased manner and resolving this situation. Sussex Police confirmed no offences were committed during the incident. A spokesman for the force said: We can confirm we responded to a report of a naked man arrested by an off-duty Met Police officer in Hastings on May 13. No offences were committed and the man was de-arrested. A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said a formal complaint had been received and is being assessed. 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. Police say Robert Bowers had an unthinkable thought then carried out Americas deadliest antisemitic attack The trial of Robert Bowers, the man charged with perpetrating the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history at the Tree of Life synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh in 2018, began with opening statements on Tuesday. Mr Bowers, who is charged with 63 criminal counts, could face the death penalty if convicted. Here is a rundown of what we know about him and the crimes he is charged with committing. Who is Robert Bowers? Mr Bowers, born in 1972, was 46 years old at the time of the shooting. He had, by multiple accounts, a challenging childhood. His parents divorced when he was around one year old, and his father, Randall Bowers, died by suicide while awaiting trial on a rape charge six or so years later. Robert Bowers Mr Bowers was raised in large part by his grandparents in the Pittsburgh suburb of Whitehall and attended Baldwin High School for several years before dropping out and becoming a trucker. Mr Bowers colleagues and neighbours largely described him in the aftermath of the shooting as quiet and not memorable. One toldThe New York Times that she couldnt even remember his name. However, quiet as he may have been in person, Mr Bowers was verbose online where he was radicalised and trafficked in white nationalist conspiracy theories. Mr Bowers was a heavy user of the far right social networking platform Gab, where he promoted the Great Replacement theory and made antisemitic and racist posts. Shortly before the shooting, Mr Bowers ranted against the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) for sponsoring a National Refugee Shabbat. HIAS likes to bring invaders in that kill our people, Mr Bowers wrote on the platform. I cant sit by and watch my people get slaughtered. Screw your optics, Im going in. What happened in the shooting? Shortly before 10am on 4 November, 2018, a man believed to be Mr Bowers entered the synagogue where three separate services were underway involving the three different congregations that practised there, and began shooting. The shooting reportedly lasted for roughly 20 mintues. Mr Bowers was allegedly armed with an assault rifle and three semi-automatic pistols. When police arrived at the synagogue about 10 minutes after Mr Bowers entered, he shot at them. He later engaged tactical teams who arrived at the synagogue in a fire fight, fleeing to a room on the third floor of the building after he was wounded. Finally, nearly an hour-and-a-half after he entered the synagogue, Mr Bowers surrendered to law enforcement and recieved medical care for his gunshot wounds. He reportedly told a SWAT officer after surrendering that he wanted all Jews to die. Who were the victims? The shooting at Tree of Life traumatised the historically Jewish Squirrel Hill community and Jews across the nation. Eleven people were killed during the shooting and seven more were injured. The first people killed were the brothers Cecil and David Rosenthal. Jerry Rabinowitz, a physician, was killed after moving towards the sound of the shooting to see if anyone needed medical assistance. The shooting was the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history, and it carried a particular edge given that it was linked to HIAS work protecting and resettling refugees work born out of the Jewish experience of persecution in Europe in the decades leading up to the Holocaust. The people who lost their lives in the shooting were: Joyce Fienberg, 75, Richard Gottfried, 65, Rose Mallinger, 97, Jerry Rabinowitz, 66, Cecil and David Rosenthal, 59 and 54, Bernice and Sylvan Simon, 84 and 86, Daniel Stein, 71, Melvin Wax, 88, and Irving Younger, 69. What happened in opening arguments at trial? After a long delay, Mr Bowers trial began on Tuesday in Pittsburgh. There is little doubt about the verdict. Mr Bowers attorneys reportedly offered to have him plead guilty to avoid the death penalty, but prosecutors rejected that offer. In her opening statement, Mr Bowers attorney Judy Clarke admitted that he went to Tree of Life in 2018 and shot every person he saw and said that there is no making sense of this senseless act. Mr Bowers caused extraordinary harm to many, many people. But Ms Clarke suggested that in Mr Bowers mind, he genuinely believed was trying to help people by targeting Jews. Mr Bowers lawyers have also claimed that he has epilepsy and schizophrenia. Whether Mr Bowers would actually be killed by the state if convicted remains to be seen. President Joe Biden voiced his opposition to the death penalty when he ran for president in 2020, and Attorney General Merrick Garland placed a moritorium on all federal executions two years ago. JSO: Two missing children last seen in Crystal Springs neighborhood found safe Update: The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office has announced that both children have been located safe. Both children have been located safely. Thank you to our community for the assistance! Jax Sheriff's Office (@JSOPIO) May 31, 2023 Original: The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office is actively seeking the assistance of the community in locating two missing endangered sisters who were last seen in a Crystal Springs neighborhood. Maliah M. Byrd, 10 years old, and Makayla A. Byrd, 7 years old, were reported missing by their family after they failed to return home from a local neighborhood park. Concerns for their safety have prompted an urgent search effort. According to reports, Maliah and Makayla were last seen on foot in the 500 block of Chaffee Road at approximately 1:30 p.m. The following are the details of the missing children: Maliah M. Byrd: Age: 10 Sex: Female Height/Weight: 46/80lbs. Eyes/Hair: Brown eyes/blonde and black braids in pigtails Clothing: White t-shirt with a dark emblem on the front, light-colored shorts, grey/white sneakers Makayla A. Byrd: Age: 7 Sex: Female Height/Weight: 43/50lbs. Eyes/Hair: Brown eyes/blonde and black short afro style ponytail Clothing: Dark-colored oversized style t-shirt, unknown color shorts, unknown color sandals Authorities are urging anyone who has seen Maliah or Makayla or possesses any information that may aid in their safe recovery to contact the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office immediately at 904-630-0500. Updates on the search efforts and any developments in the case will be provided as soon as they become available. JSO is currently looking for two missing children on the Westside of Jacksonville. The children, who are sisters, Makayla & Maliah, were reported missing by family after failing to return home from the neighborhood park. pic.twitter.com/Nkdamr6vqf Jax Sheriff's Office (@JSOPIO) May 30, 2023 [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy speaking to reporters on Wednesday. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) Just 17% of Americans agree with right-wing Republicans who insist Congress should let the U.S. default on its loans rather than raise the debt ceiling without deep spending cuts, according to a new Yahoo News/YouGov poll. Instead, the public favors by a 2-to-1 margin the sort of bipartisan deal struck over the weekend by President Biden and GOP House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. That deal, which includes smaller spending freezes and reductions in exchange for a two-year debt-ceiling hike, is now moving through Congress despite objections from the far-right House Freedom Caucus. The Yahoo News/YouGov survey of 1,520 U.S. adults was conducted from May 25 to 30, both before and after Biden and McCarthy announced their agreement. As such, it inquired about Republicans initial demands for deep cuts and subsequent negotiations over smaller cuts rather than the specifics of the Biden-McCarthy plan. When asked how they would feel about President Biden and GOP House Speaker Kevin McCarthy agreeing to smaller spending cuts in order to raise the debt limit, which could be approved with a combination of Democratic and Republican votes, a clear consensus emerges across party lines. Overall, twice as many Americans say they would favor such a compromise (43%) as say they would oppose it (21%). And while Democrats were the most positive group (by a 54% to 17% margin), both independents (41% to 20%) and Republicans (43% to 28%) also expressed more support than opposition. The survey shows similar results to follow-up questions about how House Republicans should react if Biden refuses to accept deeper Republican spending cuts (which is effectively what the president did after the House GOP passed its own spending bill last month). In response, a full 56% of Americans say Republicans should either agree to smaller cuts that can pass with Democratic and Republican votes (36%) or agree to raise the debt limit without any spending cuts at all (20%). Minority favors default Only a small minority (17%) say the GOP should let the U.S. default on its loans. Even among Republicans, just 27% would support a default in this scenario. Nearly twice as many would favor smaller cuts (41%) or a clean debt-limit hike without belt-tightening (9%). Nonetheless, Freedom Caucus leaders are currently attempting to shoot down the agreement ... just days before the country is headed for default, according to the New York Times and float[ing] the idea of calling for McCarthys removal as their plan B. If we cant kill it, were going to have to regroup and figure out the whole leadership arrangement again, Rep. Chip Roy,R-Texas, said Tuesday. The Yahoo News/YouGov poll suggests these moves would be unpopular. Though the debt ceiling remains a remote and confusing issue for many Americans, more than twice as many recognize that regular votes to raise the limit are intended to allow the federal government to pay for spending that Congress has already authorized (48%) rather than to authorize new spending (22%). And while 39% favor and 33% oppose raising the U.S. debt limit when asked for their opinion without any additional context, those numbers look very different when other respondents are told that bipartisan majorities have routinely raised the debt limit for the last century in order to avoid defaulting on Americas past loans and potentially triggering a global financial crash that could cost millions of U.S. jobs and trillions in stock market losses. In that case, 49% favor raising the limit while just 22% oppose raising it. Right now, Americans blame Republicans (37%) roughly as often as Democrats (35%) for the current gridlock in Congress. And exactly the same number (36%) blame Biden as blame McCarthy. The question now for the House GOP is whether they will accept a broadly satisfactory tie on the debt ceiling or whether they want to risk something far worse. ____________ The Yahoo News survey was conducted by YouGov using a nationally representative sample of 1,520 U.S. adults interviewed online from May 25 to May 30, 2023. The sample was weighted according to gender, age, race, education, 2020 election turnout and presidential vote, baseline party identification and current voter registration status. Demographic weighting targets come from the 2019 American Community Survey. Baseline party identification is the respondents most recent answer given prior to March 15, 2022, and is weighted to the estimated distribution at that time (32% Democratic, 27% Republican). Respondents were selected from YouGovs opt-in panel to be representative of all U.S. adults. The margin of error is approximately 2.7%. Pop-up Hello Kitty truck heads to Sacramento this weekend. Heres how much merch costs Calling all Hello Kitty lovers: the fictional white cat with no mouth and distinctive pink bow will make an appearance this weekend at the Arden Fair in Sacramento. The Sanrio Hello Kitty Cafe Truck packed with super cute desserts and trinkets ranging from $14 madeleines to $70 branded hoodies will be parked from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday near retailers Sears and Forever 21 on Arden Way. Heres a look at the Hello Kitty Truck menu, which is subject to availability and while supplies last, according to its website: Food Macaron set - $18 Cookie set - $15 Madeleine set - $14 Giant cookie - $15 Mini cake set - $18 Merchandise Glass mug - $22 T-shirt - $30 Hoodie - $70 Cup plush - $30 Mug - $20 Lunchbox - $20 Stainless steel thermal bottle (18 ounces) - $35 Stainless steel thermal bottle (32 ounces) - $42 Enamel pin set - $19 Rainbow canvas tote - $35 Keychain - $15 Only credit cards will be accepted, according to the website. The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck launched in 2014 and has since made pit stops at malls and centers across the U.S. The truck will also stop in Stockton from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 10, at the Weberstown Mall at 4950 Pacific Ave. What do you want to know about life in Sacramento? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email servicejournalists@sacbee.com. How Portsmouth's first Market Square Day in 1978 came together like a 'miracle' PORTSMOUTH Monika Aring remembers sitting in her car, praying the rain would stop before the first Market Square Day dawned. It did, and the rest is history. "It was a magical day," the festival's founder said of June 10, 1978. "The square was totally crammed full of people. The chamber of commerce had said nobody would come downtown." The crowd was estimated at 40,000. Bricks were still being laid on Portsmouth's Market Square when the first Market Square Day festival was held June 10, 1978. Aring and her family had moved to Portsmouth from Brooklyn in 1976. She was 31, living on Pickering Street and waitressing at a restaurant next to Prescott Park. A sign on a lamp post drew her to an October 1976 city council meeting on how to use federal funds to renovate Market Square. "I went and it was standing room only," she recalled in a recent interview from her home on Bainbridge Island, Washington. "I heard them arguing about putting in a Zayre Department Store and parking lot in Market Square to bring people downtown the Newington Mall had just opened." She doesn't know how she got to the microphone. But she remembers what she said: "Your square to your city is like your heart to the body. You destroy that, you destroy your city." "I knew from growing up in Europe," said Aring, a native of Germany. Monika Aring, founder of Market Square Day in Portsmouth, is featured on the June 1, 1982 edition of Seacoast Woman/Portsmouth Magazine. Approached by City Councilor Joyce Hanrahan after the meeting, Aring soon found herself talking with the New Hampshire Council for the Humanities as well as city merchants, public school teachers, University of New Hampshire professors, including Paul Brockelman, Portsmouth Herald Editor George Robinson and civic organizations like the Rotary Club. By April 1977, a grant from the National Endowment of the Arts made it possible for her to quit a job selling cars at Brady Ford and work full-time on finding out what Portsmouth citizens wanted to see in their market square. The Market Square Day celebration evolved from those conversations. "In our minds, the whole project was engaging people in an inquiry what's the purpose of a square," she said. "It was very powerful, that process. It was designed to give people an idea of their city, but it turned into an event. Market Square Day was held to showcase a farmer's market, local artisans, music, eating, dancing, guerrilla theater and road race." The late Bruce Ingmire, a local historian and Portsmouth Athenaeum member who plunged headfirst into preparations for the first Market Square Day, later became famous for donning Colonial regalia and leading history walks. In a 1992 essay, he reminisced about the first festival in 1978. "In the years preceding 1977, the Square had thin sidewalks and residents and visitors took their lives in their hands to cross from the North Church to Green's Drug Store," he wrote. "There is a theory that the success of Green's Drug Store (now the site of Starbuck's) was directly related to the amount of aspirin sold to the survivors who had gotten a headache dodging the cars in Market Square." Photographer J.D. Lincoln shot this photo as runners in the first Market Square Day road race charged down Congress Street on June 10, 1978. Robert Thoresen, Portsmouth's city planner in the 1970s, spearheaded a project to use federal funds to restore Market Square and enlarge the space reserved for people. It was a challenging task and faced opposition from downtown merchants afraid of losing parking spaces. Thoresen, a member of the Athenaeum, recently put together an exhibit at the Portsmouth Historical Society that tells the story of the city's dramatic changes during this era. "Reinventing Portsmouth -- Renewal to Renaissance: 1970s" runs through Oct. 9. Ingmire was part of a cadre of about 2,000 volunteers who showed up for the 1978 Market Square Day. "Much of the city had been up at sunrise," he wrote, noting he was busy helping blow up balloons for the arches above the square. Balloons became a signature emblem of Market Square Day starting with the first festival in 1978. This poster in the Portsmouth Athenaeum archives shows the lineup of events for the 1980 celebration. 2023 event: Market Square Day celebration and 10K bigger than ever in honor of Portsmouth's 400th The balloons were the idea of Aring's late husband, architect Roomet Joost Aring, who "wanted a graceful canopy over the whole thing," according to Monika, who described him as "my right hand" for the project. "We were all running around with our walkie talkies," she said of the volunteers. "We had teams for each stage, with four-hour rotations. It was incredibly organized, down to the last minute. We created parking areas, and police had to be paid time-and-a-half to deal with the traffic. That almost broke our budget." The nonprofit Pro Portsmouth, which formed in 1977, is still raising money for and organizing Market Square Day, along with First Night, Children's Day, and Summer in the Street. Monika's daughter, Antje Bourdages, has served on its board for years. After the wild success of the first Market Square Day, Aring found herself the subject of national media attention, with chambers of commerce across the country asking her to speak about how to revive dying downtowns. "They wanted a formula you do these 10 things and you'll have it," she said. But for Aring it was about community engagement, what she calls "an inquiry into how citizens see the future of their city." After leaving Pro Portsmouth in 1982, Aring started a public relations company, and then a marketing firm. In 1988, the Brooklyn College music graduate realized a lifelong dream to go to Harvard University. "Someone hired me to write a white paper on the state of education in New Hampshire," she said. "I met education leaders and got back into the process of inquiry. That led me to Harvard." The Portsmouth Herald featured an aerial photo on the cover of its souvenir edition for the premier of Market Square Day on June 10, 1978. She credits her Market Square Day experience with getting her into the highly competitive John F. Kennedy School of Government master's program in public administration. In a 40-year career in international development she is still working she has helped governments, private-sector companies, educators and civic leaders in 60 countries craft policies for jobs and skills for young people. Or as her LinkedIn profile says, "I learned that yes, together we can produce miracles." The Portsmouth Athenaeum, 9 Market Square, is a membership library and museum founded in 1817. The research library and Randall Gallery are open Tuesday through Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call 603-431-2538 or visit portsmouthathenaeum.org. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Portsmouth NH Market Square Day origin story is a 'miracle' Power prices spike, UK OK with UA strikes on Russia, NVs top providers of aid to Ukraine The decision to raise electricity prices for households from UAH 1.68 / kWh to UAH 2.64 / kWh ($0.05 and $0.07, respectively) was made to ensure sufficient financing for Ukraines power grid to recover from the damage sustained during Russias air strike campaign over the last winter, Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko told Ukrainian TV broadcasters on May 30. The Russian military was expecting to take Ukrainian air defenses by surprise when it attempted to attack Kyiv on the afternoon of May 29 with ballistic missiles, the spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force, Yuriy Ihnat, has said on national television. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said a meeting with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin would only be possible after the complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory. As its defending itself from Russian armed aggression, Ukraine has a legitimate right to defend itself and can project force beyond its borders, UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said at a press conference on May 30. One of the reasons for Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine was allegedly "Ukraine's desire to become a NATO member, Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili has said, parroting the Kremlin's narrative, the local Radio Svoboda service Ekho Kavkaza reported on May 30. A Ukrainian citizen was detained in Moscow on May 30 while attempting to repatriate Ukrainian children who had been deported to Russia by the invaders, Russian propaganda outlet RIA Novosti has reported. Germany has the potential to join the fighter coalition and supply Kyiv with Eurofighter Typhoon warplanes, Ukraines Defense Minister, Oleksiy Reznikov, said in an interview with the German media group Funke and the French newspaper Ouest France, German broadcaster DW reported on May 30. NV has calculated which countries have provided the most substantial support to Ukraine since the beginning of the major conflict. While the United States emerged as the most generous ally, the situation becomes more nuanced when considering the percentage of its GDP each country contributed. An area equivalent to twice the size of Israel that's how much agricultural land in Ukraine needs to be cleared of landmines, which could take as long as 20 years to complete, experts tell NV. Russian airborne and mechanized infantry units are taking over from fighters of the Wagner Group PMC in Bakhmut, Donetsk Oblast, Ukraines Operational Command East spokesman Serhii Cherevatyi told Ukrainian TV broadcasters on May 29. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine By Guy Faulconbridge MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia's most powerful mercenary, Yevgeny Prigozhin, said on Wednesday that he had asked prosecutors to investigate whether senior Russian defence officials had committed any "crime" before or during the war in Ukraine. Prigozhin's request is his most blatant public challenge to date against President Vladimir Putin's top military brass, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov. The 61-year-old restaurateur-turned-mercenary has spent months insulting both Shoigu and Gerasimov, who are leading Russia's war effort, for alleged treachery. Neither has responded publicly to his criticism. "Today I have sent letters to the Investigative Committee and the Prosecutor's Office of the Russian Federation with a request to check on the fact of the commission of a crime during the preparation and during the conduct of the SMO (Special Military Operation) by a host of senior functionaries of the Defence Ministry," Prigozhin said. "These letters will not be published due to the fact that the investigative authorities will deal with this." The defence ministry declined immediate comment. 'PUTIN'S BUTCHER' Prigozhin, the founder of the Wagner mercenary group, is the most striking member of Putin's circle to gain widespread notoriety during the 15-month war in Ukraine. He quipped last week that his nickname should be "Putin's butcher" rather than "Putin's chef". He says loyalty to Putin is part of his political stance, which he summed up as: "I love my motherland, I serve Putin, Shoigu should be judged and we will fight on." In statements this week, he said he continued to inform the top leadership of the country about problems and slammed senior Kremlin officials for blocking media coverage of him and his private army. Prigozhin is not directly challenging Putin but rather playing a jester role and acting with the approval of those dismayed by the military's conduct of the war, officials, diplomats and analysts have told Reuters. Prigozhin's private army has been fighting alongside Russia's regular forces in Ukraine and spearheaded the months-long assault on the eastern city of Bakhmut which fell earlier this month. (Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Gareth Jones) Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the Wagner Group private military company (PMC), switched his media activity to Russian regions after Bakhmut. Source: Russian Latvian-based media outlet Meduza Details: In two days at the end of May, Prigozhin managed to give three press conferences: in Yekaterinburg, Vladivostok and Novosibirsk (another one is expected in Nizhny Novgorod). Putin's "cook" presents a project called "Wagner. The second front." It is not clear what this "front" is. Quote from Meduza: "The project is aimed either at military-patriotic education of young people or at allegedly telling Russians honestly about the problems associated with the war in Ukraine and not just about the success of the Russian Defence Ministry (with which the head of the PMC is actively in conflict)." More details: The set of theses that Prigozhin voices to journalists is roughly the same everywhere: the war will be long, we urgently need to announce a general mobilisation, return the death penalty and introduce a planned economy. At the same time, the Wagnerites chief stresses that his current activity should not be regarded as the beginning of a political career; he does not plan to create his own party or run for president. Among other things, Prigozhin commented on the recent drone attack on Moscow. He suggested that "ordinary Muscovites" should be patient, and the Ministry of Defence should deploy more air defence systems. He also recalled his attempts to capture Bakhmut. Prigozhin complained that he did not have enough mercenaries, that he was "stopped from recruiting prisoners" and that he was "starved of shells". The Wagner leader also agreed with Ramzan Kadyrov's recent proposal to impose martial law in Russia. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Prison proposed for former state case worker who harassed women TRENTON A former case worker has pleaded guilty to sexually harassing women who were under investigation or supervision by the state Department of Children and Families. Gilberto Ortiz, 53, of Woodbury admitted to making unwanted advances and to intimidating women in an effort to have sex, according to the state Attorney Generals Office. It alleged Ortiz, while assigned to investigate possible negligence by a mother in February 2020, indicated he would help the woman if she had a relationship with him. More: Ruling cites double jeopardy 'Unmistakably improper' Here's why Paulsboro man will face fourth trial in woman's slaying Ortiz allegedly touched the woman without her consent during home visits and sent her sexually explicit images of himself, the Attorney Generals Office said in a statement. Gilberto Ortiz plea agreement calls for prison It said investigators also found victims from additional incidents in 2019. Ortiz, a bilingual family services specialist, was charged in March 2020. He resigned from his job after being suspended by the agency. The DCF prohibits employees from having any improper relationship with a person under supervision or investigation by the agency. Ortiz pleaded guilty on May 16 to engaging in a pattern of official misconduct. Under a plea agreement, the prosecution is recommending a five-year prison term with no parole eligibility. It also would ban Ortiz from holding public employment and public office in New Jersey. Ortiz' attorney, David Nufrio of Freehold, said his current focus "is on providing information for the judge's evaluation at sentencing." That would include information that could explain why Ortiz acted as he did, the attorney said. Superior Court Judge David M. Ragonese scheduled sentencing for July 14. Jim Walsh is a senior reporter with the Courier-Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal. Email him at jwalsh@cpsj.com. This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Woodbury man, a former state case worker, admits to harassing women Remains of ammunition on one of the fields in the Chernihiv Oblast Farmers, faced with the absence of state sappers, are compelled to enlist the services of specialized commercial entities for field inspection and demining operations. Just the survey itself costs $135 (UAH 5,000) per hectare. And if they find something, the expenses increase significantly, depending on the contamination level, said Oleksandr Klepach, owner of the Technologia-Agro farm near Snihurivka in Mykolaiv Oblast, in an interview with NV. Comprehensivedemining services come with a steep price tag, starting from $2,000 (UAH 74,000) per hectare. These services typically involve sappers conducting area surveys using detectors, and if specialized machinery is required, the costs escalate even further, according to a NV survey of market players. In cases where urgent removal of a certain object is necessary, individuals can approach either the military or private firms that employ qualified sappers equipped with the necessary equipment, according to Oleksandr Ovsianyk, the director of the agro-industrial department at Agrotrade Group, which cultivates over 70,000 hectares in the northeastern part of the country. For instance, when we find cassette mines, it usually costs a small amount, around $540 (UAH 20,000). They are taken away and detonated somewhere, either on the edge of our field or elsewhere. However, when dealing with Tornadoes, it becomes a more perilous task with a different demolition system, and the cost of detonation can go up to UAH 50,000 ($1,350), he explained. Private companies also offer comprehensive field inspection services, but the associated costs often exceed what is feasible for farmers. When we began surveying the fields, covering approximately 600 hectares conducting aerial inspections and identification it cost us around $27,000 (UAH 1 million). This amount does not even include demolitions, only the survey, recalled Ovsianyk. Consequently, field inspections are primarily conducted independently, using qualified experts. Currently, thereare more than 2,600 sappers engaged in demining activities in Ukraine, comprising both state and private entities. Even with this capacity, it would take us over20 years to clear agricultural land alone, explained the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food. More than 40 more mine clearance operator companies are expected to emerge in the country soon, says the European Business Association. Establishing a single operator necessitates a minimum of six months, involving four months of sapper training and two to three months of certification provided by relevant Ministry of Defense and the State Emergency Service bodies. The estimated cost of equipment for a group of 10 sappers ranges between $100,000 and $150,000. 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 Ohio Republican J.R. Majewski, who has been accused of misrepresenting his military record, announced Tuesday he was withdrawing from the race to unseat Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio). Majewskis second bid for Kapturs seat lasted less than two months; he formally announced his campaign in mid-April. In 2022, he won the Republican nomination and secured former President Trumps support in the race before losing to Kaptur in the general election. Majewski said in his Tuesday announcement that he was withdrawing in order to care for his ailing mother. Unfortunately, I have to bow out of the race for OH09 due to my mothers health. Last cycle, I lost my father before the primary election and I cant risk not giving my full attention to my family. But dont fret, I love this country too much to stay idle, he wrote on Twitter. I cannot express how grateful I am to all of those who have supported me on this journey thus far. Your generosity and encouragement have been invaluable to me and will never be forgotten, he added. Moving forward, my commitment to our country remains unwavering. I will continue to stand up for what is right and work hard toward building a better future for Ohio. God bless you all. Majewski came under fire leading up to the 2022 midterms after reports surfaced that he misrepresented his military background. The Associated Press reported that the Air Force could not corroborate Majewskis claims that he served in Afghanistan following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The AP also reported his campaign falsely claimed Majewskis involvement in a brawl prevented the candidate from re-enlisting in the Air Force; in reality, it was a drunk driving incident that caused his demotion. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Air Force on Thursday will start offering enlisted airmen the chance to move their job somewhere new, a new policy that aims to give troops more control over their careers and keep them in uniform longer. Under the enlisted swap assignment program, announced last fall, airmen at the rank of senior master sergeant and below can offer up their spot at a particular base by posting on the Air Forces internal MyVector talent management portal and chatting with others who show interest. If two airmen in the same career field, at the same rank and skill level and with the same array of other factors like security clearances and special experience want to trade spots, they can ask the Air Force Personnel Center to swap through MyVector. The initiative is targeted at: Airmen who want the flexibility to move for personal reasons, like being closer to family Airmen in large career fields who can work anywhere, like security forces and civil engineering Airmen seeking a change of scenery after spending several years at one base. For instance, if a B-52 bomber engine maintainer at Minot Air Force Base wanted to leave North Dakota, they could trade places with a fellow Stratofortress maintainer at Barksdale AFB, Louisiana. Airmen looking to swap must start the process within 90 days of receiving their next assignment. Both service members must be in good standing, have served at their bases for the same amount of time, and be otherwise eligible to change installations. We arent waiting for the perfect system to be built, and Im glad to see this program come to fruition, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne Bass said in a May 26 release. This is one of the many initiatives we are rolling out to ensure we are able to retrain the talent we need on the bench. The changes come as the military suffers from acute recruiting troubles. As airmen leave the service without replacements, those difficulties threaten to leave key fields like maintenance severely understaffed. About 10% of enlisted airmen who were eligible to leave in 2022 opted not to renew their contract. Service officials have sought to offer airmen a marketplace where they could have a say in their next career move, like openings on a job board in the commercial sector. Airmen are typically assigned new positions based on the services needs, with opportunities to ask for a career change along the way. In one recent step toward that goal, the Air Force is allowing its more than 100,000 first-term airmen those serving under the initial four- to six-year contract they signed to join the militarys to apply for a new job in any career field where more than 10% of the positions are unfilled. That opportunity begins Thursday as well. As both initiatives get up and running, the Air Force asked troops for their patience with often finicky internal software. The program application on MyVector isnt perfect, but it will evolve throughout the year, said Alex Wagner, the Air Forces civilian personnel chief. We understand the frustrations with our IT infrastructure, which is why its important for you to provide feedback to the team to make them better. Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., speaks with reporters, on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. | Mariam Zuhaib, Associated Press Democrats are engaged in a delicate dance after the debt ceiling deal was finalized over the weekend as they reel in their skepticism to avoid giving Republicans ammunition and hold back on saying yes to the legislation. Called the Fiscal Responsibility Act, the legislation would raise the debt ceiling and allow the U.S. to borrow until 2025 in exchange for cutting spending, as the Deseret News reported. Washington Rep. Pramila Jayapal told CNN on Sunday that the White House and Congressional Democrats should worry about whether the House Progressive Caucus, which she chairs, will support the proposed legislation. When asked how she will vote, she said she doesnt know yet, adding that she hasnt seen the legislative text. You know, Im not a big fan of in-principle or frameworks. Thats always, you know, a problem if you cant see the exact legislative text. And were all trying to wade through spin right now, Jayapal said. But I think its going to come down to what the legislative text is. But House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York said he expects his Democratic colleagues to support the deal. I do expect that there will be Democratic support once we have the ability to actually be fully briefed by the White House, he said on Face the Nation on Sunday. But Im not going to predict what those numbers may ultimately look like. He acknowledged that the Fiscal Responsibility Act takes incredibly significant steps forward by setting protections for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and veterans. It also protects infrastructure and climate investments as well as President Joe Bidens student debt relief plan. Why do progressive Democrats oppose the debt ceiling deal? As lawmakers get ready to vote on the deal, progressives like Jaypal are opposed to expanding work requirements for some food stamp recipients. It makes changes to programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families by adding work requirements for able-bodied adults up to age 54, up from age 49, according to The New York Times. Jaypal called this an absolutely terrible policy. Related We have seen reams of data that show that, when you put these work requirements in, theyre really just administrative red tape that prevent the people who need help from getting help, she said, per Salon. There will be exemptions for those who are veterans, homeless people and young adults no longer in foster care. At the same time, the Fiscal Responsibility Act would fully fund health benefits for veterans who have been exposed to environmental hazards, claw back funds allocated for COVID-19 relief, and make some reforms to permitting for energy projects. But Republican Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota said that the text of the bill doesn't propel a liberal or progressive agenda. It is a remarkable conservative accomplishment, he said. White Houses outreach to Dems Meanwhile, as Politico reported, the White House has ramped up its sales pitch. Senior officials like Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young and environmental policy adviser John Podesta have called more than 60 House Democrats since Saturday. Outreach to Senate Democrats has not fully begun yet. The White House also issued messaging guidance, as obtained by Axios. House Democrats are working responsibly to avoid a devastating default on our debt, the document, sent to Congressional Democrats on Monday, said. Extreme MAGA Republicans are recklessly threatening a job-killing recession. The White House National Economic Council Deputy Director, Bharat Ramamurti, championed the legislation as a product of a divided government that helps preserve what has been an incredibly strong set of progressive accomplishments over the last two and a half years. The White House also hosted Zoom briefings for Democrats over the weekend, where some lawmakers expressed frustration with how the administration has handled negotiations. Democratic Rep. Steven Horsford of Nevada, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, said during one conference call that the White House did not offer direct communication and consistent outreach leading up to the deal, per Axios. Other members of the caucus echoed similar grievances. Theres going to be votes that are going to be required by House Democrats, and we cant vote for something that goes against our constituents and their interests, Horsford later told CNN. Democratic Centrists show support for the debt ceiling deal While there is opposition to the deal by progressive members, the New Democrat Coalition, made up of nearly 100 centrist Democrats, not only showed support but also said that the group had been in constant communication with the White House to review the agreement. Our Members are encouraged that the White House and House GOP negotiators have reached an agreement and are working diligently to review the contents of this deal. Read the full statement from NDC Chair @RepAnnieKuster pic.twitter.com/S5nvpwp7pf New Democrat Coalition (NDC) (@NewDemCoalition) May 28, 2023 Compromise depends on give and take and this bill required concessions from both sides, said coalition chair Rep. Annie Kuster, D-N.H., in a statement issued on Monday. New Dems will remain in close consultation with our partners in the administration to ensure that this bill gets to President Bidens desk without unnecessary delay to protect the full faith and credit of the United States. Rep. Andre Carson, D-Ind., said that compromises will have to be made in order to not damage the economy. Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn., said: I know some of my colleagues will consider anything damaging or destructive, per Axios. Theyre both part of the New Democrat Coalition. Jeffries, the House minority leader, said on CNN that he expects House Republicans to provide at least 150 votes. Democrats are committed to making sure that we do our part and avoid a default, he said, referring to the nearly 70 more votes it would take to pass the Fiscal Responsibility Act. This would require the support of some progressives. Project Veritas sues its founder James O'Keefe, alleging he set up a competitor and wooed donors while on the company's payroll James O'Keefe. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Project Veritas is suing its founder and former leader, James O'Keefe. O'Keefe set up a competitor right-wing political sting operation earlier this year amid allegations of financial misconduct. Project Veritas alleges that he violated his employment contract and wooed donors from a confidential list. The right-wing activist group Project Veritas filed a lawsuit Wednesday against its founder, James O'Keefe, alleging he violated his employment agreement by establishing a competing organization and wooing away donors while still on Project Veritas' payroll. "Being known as the founder of an organization does not entitle that person to run amok and put his own interests ahead of that organization," the lawsuit says. "Defendant James O'Keefe ("O'Keefe") failed in his duties to Plaintiff, Project Veritas, causing it serious and significant damage." Project Veritas quickly became an important part of the right-wing political and media ecosystem after O'Keefe founded it in 2010. It has conducted sting operations against perceived enemies, including Planned Parenthood, Pfizer, and mainstream media outlets, Pfizer. A number of its operations have backfired on the organization, including an unsuccessful effort in 2017 to plant a false sexual misconduct allegation against then-US Senate candidate Roy Moore in the Washington Post. According to the lawsuit, the Project Veritas board of directors placed O'Keefe on paid leave on February 6 following accusations from employees that he mismanaged finances, targeted female employees, and "behaved unprofessionally during team meetings, including by screaming at coworkers and belittling them and their contributions to Project Veritas." Company employees have additionally alleged that O'Keefe had "strained relationships with several donors because he was routinely late for meetings and rude at VIP events designed to give donors extra access to O'Keefe," the lawsuit said. The complaint also accused O'Keefe of using company funds to finance his lifestyle. Among other things, the suit alleges that O'Keefe used a company credit card to book lavish hotel rooms and private car services; flew first class on Project Veritas' dime in cases where the flight was not covered by the company's policy for approving first-class flights; and directed Project Veritas to shell out more than $10,000 for a helicopter from New York to Maine. He racked up roughly $19,000 in personal expenses on the company card even after his permission to use it was revoked upon being placed on paid leave on February 6, the lawsuit said. Later that month, O'Keefe founded the O'Keefe Media Organization, which is also a defendant in the lawsuit along with two other Project Veritas employees who assisted with the project. The O'Keefe Media Organization directly competes with Project Veritas a violation of O'Keefe's employment contract, Project Veritas alleges. O'Keefe also solicited donors using a confidential list kept by Project Veritas, according to the lawsuit. "O'Keefe has and continues to solicit Project Veritas's donors, employees and contractors, in direct violation of his Employment Agreement, for and on behalf of OMG," the lawsuit alleged. During this period of time, O'Keefe was still on Project Veritas payroll, according to the lawsuit. He was kept on the board until April 24 and removed from the company entirely on May 15, the lawsuit said. O'Keefe didn't immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Read the original article on Business Insider Joe Raedle Right-wing media group Project Veritas is suing its founder James OKeefe, accusing him of bullying employees, racking up massive personal bills on company accounts, and using Project Veritas resources to start a new, rival media shop. The suit, filed Wednesday in New York federal court, comes amid a bitter rift between OKeefe and Project Veritas, the far-right video sting operation he founded in 2010. In early February, a group of Project Veritas employees signed a letter accusing OKeefe of becoming a power-drunk tyrant who was outright cruel to employees whose misdeeds ranged from eating an eight-months-pregnant womans sandwich, to spending company funds on musical theater productions. OKeefe was placed on suspension in February and soon thereafter announced the launch of a new, Project Veritas-like group called O'Keefe Media Group (OMG). Project Veritas claims OKeefe started his new venture while using Project Veritas resources like donor lists and laptops. Neither Project Veritas nor OKeefe returned The Daily Beasts requests for comment on Wednesday. (Two additional ex-Veritas employees who are also named as defendants did not respond or could not be reached for comment.) James OKeefe Outright Cruel to Project Veritas Employees, Internal Memo Alleges Project Veritas claims OKeefes wild behavior constituted a breach of contract even before he founded OMG. During an internal investigation into OKeefes conduct this year, the companys board heard allegations that OKeefe routinely behaved unprofessionally during team meetings, including by screaming at coworkers and belittling them and particularly target[ing] female employees with mean-spirited comments about their lack of contributions to the companies and inappropriate comments about personal situations like pregnancies. Employees also reportedly alleged that they personally had observed obscene messages between OKeefe and various women on social media applications when accessing OKeefes phone for work-related matters. Employees claimed the unprofessional conduct extended to financial matters. OKeefe was routinely late for meetings and rude at VIP events designed to give donors extra access to OKeefe, resulting in strained relationships with several donors, the lawsuit alleges. The suit goes on to accuse OKeefe of making employees run personal errands like cleaning his boat and picking up his laundry. While working for Project Veritas, OKeefe allegedly used company funds for dubious ends, like spending more than $10,000 for a helicopter flight from New York to Maine without clear benefit to Project Veritas, and expensing first-class air travel and luxury hotels. OKeefes alleged penchant for black car services cost Project Veritas more than $150,000 over the past 18 months as the company paid for cars to go relatively short distances in and around Manhattan and then wait outside of restaurants for hours, the suit alleges. James OKeefe Was Never Going to Leave Project Veritas Quietly OKeefe, a fan of song-and-dance numbers, also allegedly directed the company to spend big on events like the Project Veritas Experience, which has previously been described as a dance event. Shortly after his February suspension, OKeefe launched OMG, which shares Project Veritass right-wing mission and hidden camera approach. OKeefe promoted the new company by bashing his old company. On a tour of conservative podcasts and web shows, OKeefe claimed to have been ousted by Project Veritas. But the company says thats not true. The lawsuit claims that OKeefe was not officially kicked off the Project Veritas board until April 24, and not formally fired until May 15. James OKeefe Takes Victory Lap on ABC News Sting, but His Favorite Media Sage Isnt Celebrating: Good Grief Project Veritas accused OKeefe of disparaging the company board, creating a conflict of interests, and also of skimming off Veritas donor list while working on OMGs behalf. The company cites emails OKeefe sent to Project Veritas donors in late May stating Hey there, I know youve been a supporter of my work in the last year and linking to OMGs subscription page. The only way OKeefe and OMG had those donors contact information was because it was part of a confidential list kept by Project Veritas, the company alleges. The suit also accuses OKeefe and two former Project Veritas employees of making off with Project Veritas equipment when they left for OMG. The company claims those ex-employees refuse to turn over Project Veritas laptops. One Veritas-turned-OMG staffer claims to have lost the MacBook Air and told Project Veritas he would pay for it, but he has not done so and has ceased all communications, the suit alleges. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. OpenAI Chief Executive Sam Altman before a Senate hearing on artificial intelligence on May 16. (Patrick Semansky / Associated Press) As artificial intelligence races toward everyday adoption, experts have come together again to express worry over technology's potential power to harm or even end human life. Two months after Elon Musk and numerous others working in the field signed a letter in March seeking a pause in AI development, another group consisting of hundreds of AI-involved business leaders and academics signed on to a new statement from the Center for AI Safety that serves to "voice concerns about some of advanced AIs most severe risks." The new statement, only a sentence long, is meant to "open up discussion" and highlight the rising level of concern among those most versed in the technology, according to the nonprofit's website. The full statement reads: "Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war." Notable signatories of the document include Demis Hassabis, chief executive of Google DeepMind, and Sam Altman, Chief Executive of OpenAI. Though proclamations of impending doom from artificial intelligence are not new, recent developments in generative AI such as the public-facing tool ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, have infiltrated the public consciousness. The Center for AI Safety divides the risks of AI into eight categories. Among the dangers it foresees are AI-designed chemical weapons, personalized disinformation campaigns, humans becoming completely dependent on machines and synthetic minds evolving past the point where humans can control them. Geoffrey Hinton, an AI pioneer who signed the new statement, quit Google earlier this year, saying he wanted to be free to speak about his concerns about potential harm from systems like those he helped to design. "It is hard to see how you can prevent the bad actors from using it for bad things, he told the New York Times. The March letter did not include the support of executives from the major AI players and went significantly further than the newer statement in calling for a voluntary six-month pause in development. After the letter was published, Musk was reported to be backing his own ChatGPT competitor, "TruthGPT." Tech writer Alex Kantrowitz noted on Twitter that the Center for AI Safety's funding was opaque, speculating that the media campaign around the danger of AI might be linked to calls from AI executives for more regulation. In the past, social media companies such as Facebook used a similar playbook: ask for regulation, then get a seat at the table when the laws are written. The Center for AI Safety did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the sources of its funding. Whether the technology actually poses a major risk is up for debate, Times tech columnist Brian Merchant wrote in March. He argued that, for someone in Altman's position, "apocalyptic doomsaying about the terrifying power of AI serves your marketing strategy." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Putin admits Moscow has room to 'work on' its air defenses after drone attacks hit civilian areas in the capital Russian President Vladimir Putin attends the Supreme Economic Eurasian Council at the Grand Kremlin Palace on May 25, 2023 in Moscow, Russia. Contributor/Getty Images Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Tuesday said Moscow's air defenses have "something to work on." He said this just after Russia's defense ministry reported that drone attacks had struck the capital. Putin said defenses were working fine, but promised to bolster their presence in Moscow. Russian leader Vladimir Putin said Moscow's defenses are working well, but admitted there "is something to work on" after local authorities said a series of drone attacks struck the capital. "Moscow's air defense system worked routinely, satisfactory," he told state media outlet TASS on Tuesday. "Although, there is something to work on." At least eight drone attacks were launched at Moscow on Tuesday morning, with some drones striking residential areas and neighborhoods of Russia's elite, Russia's defense ministry said. Authorities said the drones inflicted minor damage, and that no one was seriously injured. Speaking to TASS, Putin promised to boost the number of air defense systems in the city. "In general, it's clear what needs to be done to increase the density of the capital's air defense systems. And we will do just that," he said. Anti-air systems have increasingly been installed by the Kremlin in the capital and sites visited by Putin. In January, footage emerged of Pantsir surface-to-air missile systems being placed on the rooftops of key buildings in Moscow. The same type of system was used to take down several of the drones in Tuesday's attack, per the defense ministry. Russia has blamed the drone strikes on Ukraine, with Putin claiming they were Kyiv's response to a prior Russian attack on a Ukrainian military intelligence headquarters. Ukraine has denied responsibility for the drone strikes. Putin has since characterized the attack as "terrorist activity" and an attempt to intimidate Russian citizens. Tuesday's attack comes just weeks after two drones targeted the Kremlin in a separate strike, though this attempt also yielded minor damage. Ukraine also denied being involved in the attack, though US officials believe Kyiv may have been responsible. A press representative for Putin's office did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment sent outside regular business hours. Read the original article on Business Insider REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov Russias Vladimir Putin is avoiding taking any trips out of the country because he no longer feels safe following repeated Ukrainian drone attacks and an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court, according to several new reports. On Wednesday, Russian state media reported that Putin will not be attending Turkish President Tayyip Erdogans inauguration, sending State Duma chairman Vyacheslav Volodin instead. Nor will Putin be attending an upcoming summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in India that was initially meant to be in person. Organizers of that summit on Tuesday announced that the format would be switched to virtual, with The Hindu reporting that scheduling difficulties were behind the change. The decision also may have been motivated by Putins presence threatening to cast a shadow over the event, according to the publication. An unnamed high-ranking Russian official cited by the independent outlet Verstka said Putins decision to stay within Russias borders was likely due to the Hagues order for his arrest. The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for the Russian president in March, accusing him of war crimes for the forced deportation of children from Ukraine. Ukrainian Spy Boss Bluntly Admits Plan to Assassinate Putin Recent drone attacks on Moscow have also left Putin spooked, according to the source. The feeling behind the scenes of the Kremlin, the source said, was that Putin was worried about traveling anywhere: He has no sense of security. While the Kremlin played down this weeks drone attack on the Russian capital, The Moscow Times reported Wednesday that Putin was most likely in his Novo-Ogaryovo residence when air defenses shot down a drone that was heading for it just a few miles away. A source close to the Kremlin told the news outlet that the Russian leader was awakened early by his security team in the middle of the attack. Ukrainian authorities have not been shy about their hopes to assassinate the Russian president, with the deputy head of intelligence confirming earlier this month that Putin is at the top of their hit list. Pressure is also building in connection with the Hagues arrest warrant: Opposition groups in South Africa have demanded that their government detain Putin if he attends the BRICS summit to be held there in August. While South African authorities announced that they would grant immunity to attendees of the summit, they cryptically added that the immunity does not override any warrant that may have been issued by any international tribunal against any attendee of the conference. Meanwhile, billboards have reportedly been erected in South Africa telling President Cyril Ramaphosa to arrest Putin. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. The Ben Affleck of the animal world has made itself known. On May 7, TikTok user Samantha Jane Guptill (@samguptuppy) shared a short video taken in line at a Florida-area Dunkin to her account that went mega-viral. In the clip, which has amassed over 21 million views and 4 million likes, Guptill can be heard narrating the drive-thru adventures of what may be Americas most polite raccoon. What in the world? My dude. He wants some Dunkin doughnuts, Guptill says, waiting in line with an unidentified second person who can be heard giggling off camera. After watching the raccoon approach the takeout window, the driver pulls forward a bit to get a closer look. Dont hit him, dont hit him! The raccoon waits patiently at the window. Hes probably not late for work. What is he doing? Are they gonna give him a doughnut? Guptill continues while watching a Dunkin worker move around behind the drive-thru window. Oh theyre gonna give him a doughnut? Oh, my God! Do it. Throw him the doughnut. What Guptill and probably anyone viewing the video she took was not expecting was the way the doughnut exchange went down between the raccoon and the Dunkin worker. Using its uber-dexterous fingers, the raccoon politely receives what appears to be a delicious-looking vanilla-frosted doughnut in its paws before placing it in its mouth, getting on all fours, and scurrying away into a nearby bush, likely to enjoy the treat in peace. Oh, my God, Guptill repeats as everyone chortles at the adorably strange sight. Dunkin did not immediately respond to TODAY.coms request for comment on its procyonid patron. Neither did Guptill. But, according to a post on Guptills Facebook, shes glad everyone appreciated it as much as (she) did. So cute! He seemed like a regular, Guptill wrote in another comment on the post. It appears the Guptill's sentiment is almost universally shared by people who left 30 or so comments on her Facebook page and more than 33,000 comments on the TikTok. Dunkin has to use this for a commercial! suggested one commenter. She could have thrown it but she handed it to him like the little gentleman he is, wrote another user on TikTok. If they had a buy the raccoons daily donut option I would a 100% do that, wrote another user. The amount of serotonin this has brought me is IMMACULATE, wrote another user, this time on Facebook. Most Dunkins have a raccoon mascot. Mine had a whole family. Theyd meet us at the dumpster for the throw aways at the end of the night, commented another TikTok user. Most commenters seem to think that this isnt this particular raccoons first time in the drive-thru, either. Fun fact: Raccoons can remember how to do tasks for up to three years, so this Dunkin will likely be getting visits from this little guy for quite a while. Theres no way this isnt a daily thing for the raccoon and the workers lol that was far too casual, wrote another TikTok commenter. I love it! This critter who literally runs on Dunkin isnt the only one of its kind to make headlines for appearing in an unexpected place. In 2019, a raccoon broke into a vending machine at a Florida high school, only to be freed later by an officer. Then, in 2020, a pair of raccoons slid their way into a bank in Redwood City, California, only to be spotted before they completed whatever heist they had planned. Those masked bandits should take a page from their kind-hearted cousin, and maybe just ask next time. This article was originally published on TODAY.com Rally calls on RI lawmakers to support tenants' rights in several ways. Here's the ask As debate ramps up over how to ease Rhode Island's housing crunch, tenants' rights groups are pushing to put new renter protections in state law, including rent caps, an apartment registry and process to keep eviction records secret. They rallied at the State House on Tuesday in support of more than a dozen pieces of legislation aimed at helping tenants find a place to live, stay in their apartments and punish landlords who don't maintain their properties. There's a bedbugs bill, a 120-day warning for rent increases, a state consumer housing guide bill and a prohibition on using criminal history to deny a rental application. "Homelessness and evictions is not just one occurrence; it is cascade of events that leaves people housing insecure for up to seven years ... increasing the amount of housing insecurity on our state," Sen. Tiara Mack, sponsor of several housing bills, said at the Homes for All rally at the State House on Tuesday. "We need to make sure this session we pass tenant focused legislation and seal evictions." State Sen. Tiara Mack addresses Tuesday's rally, part of a broader effort to establish what would be a first-in-the-nation state public housing developer to boost the housing supply and a raft of bills supporting the rights of tenants and prospective tenants. Mack's housing bills this year include a Tenant's Bill of Rights, which would provide tenants a right of first refusal to buy the property they live in when an owner sells, evictions only when "good cause" is proven and 4% limit on rent increases. The rally preceded a slew of housing bills coming before the Senate Judiciary Committee for a hearing Tuesday evening, including the rental registry, the sealing of eviction records and rent stabilization plan. A bill prohibiting landlords from turning away currently homeless applicants would also give tenants the right to "an assistance animal." The House has made housing legislation its top priority this year, but some bills face an uncertain path in the Senate, including a ban on rental application fees passed by the House earlier this year, which was one of the bills championed at Tuesday's rally. Several bills that aim to empower and inform tenants about lead in walls and pipes will get a vote The rental registry was introduced at the request of Attorney General Peter Neronha as a tool to protect tenants from being poisoned by lead in old homes. It would require all landlords to register their properties with the Department of Health and any rental unit built before lead paint was banned in 1978 would have to provide a lead hazard-mitigation certificate. Any landlord who doesn't comply would be subject to fines of $50 per violation or, for "any landlord who repeatedly fails to comply," civil penalties of $1,000 per violation. "By enacting these bills, Rhode Island will be on par with states like Maryland, which successfully reduced childhood lead poisoning with similar measures," Carol Ventura, CEO of Rhode Island Housing, wrote in support of the bill. "Moreover, a rental registry for all properties will improve public health and safety, consumer protection and housing policymaking in our state." But landlords warned it would create a host of problems. "Registries are for sex offenders, not housing providers," Steve Charette of Green Property Investment LLC wrote in testimony on the House version. Architect David Sisson, who rents five apartments, said the registry would set off a mad scramble of property owners trying to do lead inspections and renovations before the October 2024 deadline. "Guess what? If you pass this, I'm going to evict every single tenant because I need the units empty to in order to do any changes required based on the lead inspection," he said. "The lead inspection always finds something that needs to be done, and it's VERY difficult to work on properties when the tenants are in them." A narrower bill on lead in rental apartments passed out of House and Senate committees Tuesday. It would end the owner-occupant exemption from the state's lead hazard mitigation law. Also dealing with lead, although not exclusively a tenants rights issue, the Senate on Tuesday passed Senate President Dominick Ruggerio's bill to create a lead water-line replacement program. One bill would make it difficult for landlords to find out if potential tenants have history of eviction Tenants' rights advocates say landlords often refuse to rent to people who have been evicted before, making it all but impossible for some to find a place to live. The bill introduced by Mack and Rep. Teresa Tanzi in the House doesn't require all eviction cases to be sealed, but that they "may be sealed by the court upon motion by any party or parties after the conclusion of the case." A judge should consider "whether the case was dismissed, whether rent claimed in the case has been paid through a rental assistance program, and if the case was resolved by stipulation whether the terms of the stipulation have been fulfilled by the parties." Opponents of the bill testifying before a House committee last week said the criteria are vague and could create problems for landlords. Sam Levy of Providence said in response to not being able to tell if someone has been evicted before, landlords will raise security deposits to three months' rent. "In my experience, almost every tenant I had to evict, had many complaints against them by their neighbors," Levy wrote. According to The Rhode Island Landlord- Tenant Handbook, "A landlord can take a security deposit from a tenant at the beginning of a new rental term but it cannot exceed one month's rent." The rally Tuesday was promoted by Reclaim Rhode Island, which, in addition to tenant bills, is pushing this year to create a state housing developer and state public housing revolving fund. Another tenants bill passed unanimously by the House Tuesday would increase the amount tenants can deduct from their rent from $125 to $500 to offset repairs they have made to their units. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Advocates seek tenant protections from bias, lead paint, rent hikes, more In North Carolina, one person dies by suicide about every six hours. Suicide is among the leading causes of death for those aged 10 to 34, and more than half of those with mental illness dont receive treatment. Those alarming statistics have led state lawmakers to propose a major investment in mental health care a rare display of bipartisanship that could help address this growing crisis. House Bill 855, titled Strengthening Care for Families and Children, would invest $1 billion in improvements to the states mental health system. The bill has wide bipartisan support, with nearly 50 Democrats and Republicans in the House signing on as co-sponsors. Rep. Donny Lambeth, a Forsyth County Republican and the bills primary sponsor, said in a committee hearing Tuesday that this is a once in a generation opportunity to strengthen our care. And it is but its also long overdue. This investment wouldnt be possible had North Carolina lawmakers not decided to finally expand Medicaid, as the state will receive a $1.8 billion bonus from the federal government for doing so. The $1 billion plan resembles a similar proposal made by Gov. Roy Cooper earlier this year, and the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services is also on board. Lawmakers plan to invest the money in three key areas: improving access to care, building a stronger system of support for people in crisis and building a database to better track access and health outcomes. The bill includes $40 million to improve behavioral health services at schools, about $100 million to expand the number of beds in state-run psychiatric facilities and $20 million to increase access to telehealth services for people in rural areas. It would also spend $225 million to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for behavioral health care providers. Those rates havent been raised in a decade, which means many providers dont accept Medicaid patients. A significant chunk of funds would be used to recruit and retain the states mental health workforce. One report estimates that only 13% of the states mental health care needs are being met due to a shortage of providers, and those shortages are even worse in rural areas. An undersupply of workers makes it even more difficult for the state to operate its psychiatric facilities at the level necessary to accommodate demand. Even a billion dollars probably wont be enough to address the full scope of North Carolinas mental health crisis, but its a much-needed start. North Carolina ranks 39th in the country for access to mental health care, according to Mental Health America. The states mental health system has been underfunded for years, leaving us ill-equipped to meet demand for mental health services. As the years have gone by, that demand has only grown. Since the pandemic, the number of people experiencing mental health issues has become higher than ever. People spend days, even weeks, in the emergency room because there arent any available beds in psychiatric hospitals. The wait for a state psychiatric hospital bed is, on average, 16 days. Among young people, the crisis is particularly acute anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation have all increased, especially among teenagers. In 2020, more than one in 10 children had a diagnosis of depression or anxiety a 49% increase from 2016. A recent report card from N.C. Child gave North Carolina an F for childrens mental health. Its not supposed to be that way. In a recent interview with WFAE, Lambeth admitted that state lawmakers should have begun to address North Carolinas mental health challenges much earlier. I had my hands full in other sessions, Lambeth told WFAE. I was letting things go with mental health, and I sort of regret it. We should have been dealing with some of the mental health challenges before now. Lambeth is right. North Carolinians are paying for the states missteps, but its not too late to stop the trends from worsening further. But as some lawmakers pointed out in Tuesdays committee hearing, the funds allocated in this bill will only last a few years. If legislators dont continue to prioritize improvements to the mental health system, any progress they make now will quickly be erased. A $1 billion investment is a positive first step to repairing North Carolinas broken mental health care system. Its exactly the kind of work that lawmakers should spend their time doing. Raven-Symone has revealed that everyone shes dated has needed to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). The 36-year-old actor, who rose to fame on the Disney Channel series Thats So Raven, recently opened up about dating in the spotlight before she married her wife, Miranda Pearman-Maday. All of my relationships, especially obviously when I started dating, I had to get people to sign NDAs, she said on the Howie Mandel Does Stuff podcast last week. It took me a while to wrap my head around it because its very impersonal, but someone in our position needs to do that. When podcast co-host Howie Mandel asked at what point she presents her partner with legal paperwork, Raven-Symone replied: Before the naughty times come. She added, No, Im serious right before naughty time comes. Welcome to being a celebrity in Hollywood nowadays, she continued. Its true though nowadays, hashtags, real life, they change the dynamic of having an intimate relationship with somebody. The Cheetah Girls star went on to describe the crazy moment she asked her now-wife to sign the NDA document, which came just two months into seeing each other. We were in New York. We were in this outdoor French type of restaurant, and my mom had been bugging me, Raven-Symone said. She was like, You got to get it signed. Im like, Shes from the industry. And my mom was bugging me. The former child star added that she was really reluctant to ask her then-girlfriend to sign the document because she knew something was different about her. Raven-Symone described Pearman-Madays reaction when she asked her to sign the NDA: Shes like, I dont understand, because she knew that we had something different like it just feels different right. Despite her reluctance, Pearman-Maday ultimately signed the document because she knew that Raven-Symone was being pushed elsewhere and she understood. We both were like, This takes away the genuineness of it all, but we also understood that we live in Hollywood, the Disney star added. She knows who she is. So she did it. Raven-Symone, whose full name is Raven-Symone Christina Pearman-Maday, and Miranda Pearman-Maday were married in June 2020. The two tied the knot in an intimate wedding ceremony, Raven-Symone revealed in an Instagram post at the time. I got married to a woman who understands me from trigger to joy, from breakfast to midnight snack, from stage to home, she wrote in her Instagram post-wedding announcement. I love you Mrs Pearman-Maday! Lets tear this world a new a**hole!!! Raven-Symone didnt publicly come out as gay until she attended college at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, California. I never thought I would come out because my personal life didnt matter, she said in a video for It Gets Better in 2016. It was only what was supposed to be sold as the Raven-Symone brand. So it was something that I always thought in my head, Ill have a friend. Ill have a husband and Ill have a friend on the side so I can be happy. 'Ready to take on the world and win': Photo of kindergarten girl at graduation goes viral Rising first grader Taylor Sims is going places. In a photo that is going viral on Facebook, Taylor, 6, is seen at her kindergarten graduation ceremony in Bastrop, Louisiana. Dressed in a royal blue cap and gown and slightly heeled sandals, Taylor sits with her legs crossed and her back perfectly straight. Her determined facial expression matches her poised body language. Shes alert and ready!!! She looks as if she just graduated Harvard and is about to choose 5 bomb jobs--each making over $200,000 a year, one person wrote in the comments. Added another, She looks like shes ready to take on the world and win! Several remarked that Taylor could be the next president of the United States. Taylors mom, Lexii Sims, who shared the graduation picture on May 24, describes her daughter as being "outspoken." She's also a "tough cookie," according to Sims. Shes got sass to her and she always has," Sims tells TODAY.com. She lives in her truth. Sims adds that Taylor, who was born six weeks premature, is a natural fighter. Sims recalls how hospital staff initially predicted Taylor would need to spend time in the neonatal intensive care unit. Literally, the next morning I got a knock on the door, theyre like, Taylor can go home with you, Sims says. As of now, Taylor aspires to be a princess who owns her own hair salon. But shes also expressed interest in becoming a police officer or paramedic. Sims could see Taylor modeling on a runway one day. As soon as you pull out a camera, shes going to give you a pose, Sims says, with a laugh. Brittany Higginbotham, Taylors kindergarten teacher at the Beekman Charter School, cant wait to see what the future holds for her former student. Taylor is a child who is confident, strong-willed and resilient, Higginbotham tells TODAY.com. Taylor has never been afraid to have fun, show her personality or to stand up for what she believes in. This article was originally published on TODAY.com The News Growing demand for renewables in both South Africa and Ukraine illustrates their potential in countries grappling with instability. Both Pretoria and Kyiv the former fighting corruption and an energy crisis, and the latter battling against Russias invasion have prioritized clean-energy sources in their search for reliable power supplies. The View From Ukraine Despite the war raging within its borders, Ukraine has built more onshore wind turbines this year than the U.K., a report from The Guardian shows. The new Tyligulska wind farm is likely the first to be built in a conflict zone, the newspaper writes, and is generating enough electricity to power about 200,000 homes some 60 miles from the front line of the countrys conflict with Russia. The site is on track to be the largest wind farm in Eastern Europe, the head of Ukraines largest energy investor DTEK told The Guardian, adding that it is a symbol of Ukraines resistance to Russian attempts to freeze Ukraine into submission. Russia, which launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine early last year, has repeatedly targeted the countrys critical energy infrastructure, and occupies Ukraines Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. The facility has now been disconnected from Ukraines grid, but previously powered about 20% of the country. The View From South Africa Electricity shortages in South Africa have led to record demands for solar installations in Cape Town, Bloomberg reports. More than 2,300 city residents have requested solar power this year, by the end of April, a rise that come as the country turns to load-shedding coordinated daily blackouts that aim to prevent the electricity grid from overloading. As of April, Cape Town was facing around 10 hours per day without electricity, The Telegraph reports. Officials for Eskom, the countrys power generator, are warning that with winter approaching the situation could become even more dire. Eskom is also facing breakdowns at its coal-fired power plants, an issue that former CEO Andre de Ruyter alleged is related to Pretorias inability to crack down on corruption that is draining the power service of its funding. Step Back Renewables have long been touted as a solution for countries that are low-income, facing instability, or relying on fossil-fuel imports for power. According to the World Bank, developing nations are increasingly drawing on private investment to accelerate their clean energy projects. The International Renewable Energy Agency found that global financing for renewable projects doubled between 2010 and 2017. By Joseph Ax and Tim Reid (Reuters) - Former Vice President Mike Pence and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie are planning to enter the race for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination next week in long-shot challenges to the dominance of front-runner Donald Trump. Christie, who advised Trump's campaign in 2016 only to become a vocal critic of the former president, will formally announce his 2024 campaign on June 6, a person familiar with the matter said. Pence, who incurred Trump's wrath by refusing to support his effort to overturn the results of the 2020 election, is set to enter the race against his former boss on June 7, three sources familiar with the situation told Reuters. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum is also planning to enter race on the same day as Pence, according to a person familiar with Burgum's plans. The growing Republican field concerns many Trump opponents inside the Republican Party. They fear a large number of challengers will splinter the anti-Trump vote and hand the party's nomination to the former president, who can rely on at least 30% of the Republican base to back him. Trump has a massive polling lead in a Republican field that now has more than 10 declared or almost-declared candidates. His nearest challenger is Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who entered the race last week. On Wednesday, Pence's polling average in the Republican field was less than 4%, compared to Trump's 53%, according to a RealClearPolitics average of polls. Christie to date has barely registered in the polls. Pence will launch his campaign with a video and a speech in the early nominating state of Iowa, the sources said. A staunch social conservative who stood by Trump throughout his time in his office, Pence has increasingly distanced himself from the former Republican president since his election defeat, saying Trump's encouragement of the rioters who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, put him and his family in danger. Pence, who turns 64 on June 7, has continued to embrace many of Trump's policies, while portraying himself as an even-keeled and consensus-oriented alternative. He has also appealed more directly to the evangelical Christian community. The success of his campaign will hinge on whether he can attract enough backers of Trump's policies who are turned off by the former president's rhetoric and behavior to build a viable coalition. Christie, 60, enters the race as a decided underdog, six years after his 2016 presidential campaign failed to gain traction amid a crowded field that included Trump. Only 1% of Republicans said he would be their preferred 2024 nominee in a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted May 9-15. Christie will officially launch his campaign at a town hall at Saint Anselm College in the early nominating state of New Hampshire on Tuesday, the person familiar with the matter said. Other Republicans who have entered the race include U.S. Senator Tim Scott and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley. (This story has been corrected to remove extraneous word 'Donald' in paragraph 3, fix the number of Republican hopefuls to 'more than 10' in paragraph 6 and change the date of latest polling to Wednesday in paragraph 7) (Reporting by Steve Holland, Joseph Ax and Tim Reid; Editing by Daniel Wallis) Rep. Scott Perry, R-Pa., left, and Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, speak with reporters as member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus talk about the debt limit deal, during a news conference, Tuesday, May 30, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. | Jacquelyn Martin, Associated Press House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said he reached a deal with President Joe Biden to raise the debt ceiling and most of his conference is on board. Not every Republican is ready to vote yes or support the deal, though. The bill has the backing of Republicans including Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah, Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota and Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, the No. 3 House Republican. Romney called the bill a good-faith bipartisan compromise and Johnson said he was sure it would pass, but to not expect unanimous support. Ive talked to dozens of members, and listen, not every single member is on board, Johnson told NBC News Monday. But when was the last time that every single member of Congress agreed on anything? Members of the House Freedom Caucus, a conservative group, are among the most vocal opponents of the deal. What I see here in this deal is absolutely one of the biggest abominations since Ive been in Washington, D.C., Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., a caucus member, said Tuesday at a press conference. Im going to vote no, I urge my colleagues to vote no. Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, another caucus member, said the deal was at best, a spending freeze for a couple years, thats it, thats about what you get, while Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., said Republicans should risk default, something former President Donald Trump has called for. Lets call their bluff on it, the best deal is no deal, Norman said during the press conference. Once you dissect the bill, this bill is un-American, it defies conservatism. There is some opposition to the bill outside the House Freedom Caucus as well, including Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., who criticized it for not setting a debt limit dollar amount but instead suspending it until Jan. 2, 2025. Sixty-three percent of Americans want Congress to cut spending as part of a debt ceiling deal. This bill doesnt do that. Unacceptable, Mace tweeted, referencing an AP-NORC poll released earlier this month. Washington is, was and always will be lousy at responsibly spending your tax dollars. That wont change unless we demand change. Related Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who announced his presidential campaign last week, indicated hes opposed to the bill. Prior to this deal ... our country was careening towards bankruptcy and after this deal our country will still be careening towards bankruptcy, DeSantis told Fox & Friends. Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, another Republican presidential candidate, said he backs the deal. Hutchinson praised McCarthy because of the bills work requirements and for doing an excellent job shepherding this for the Republican majority in Congress in an interview with MSNBC. Entrepreneur and presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said he wouldnt vote for the bill if he was in the House because it was too incremental. We still have a spending crisis in this country, he told Fox Business. The point of these negotiations should be to actually address the fiscal crisis, not to window dress around it. Republicans outraged as Donald Trump turns against aide Kayleigh McEnany (screengrab/Fox News) Donald Trump turned on former White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany for allegedly sharing inaccurate poll numbers, in a move that has left Republicans shocked. Ms McEnany, 35, served as the former president's fourth press secretary and was touted to be one of his most loyal aides before joining Fox News as a contributor. "Kayleigh 'Milktoast' McEnany just gave out the wrong poll numbers on Fox News," Mr Trump wrote on Truth Social, while incorrectly spelling the term milquetoast. "I am 34 points up on DeSanctimonious, not 25 up. While 25 is great, its not 34," the one-time president said, using his nickname for Florida governor Ron DeSantis. "She knew the number was corrected upwards by the group that did the poll. The RINOS & Globalists can have her. FoxNews should only use REAL Stars." During her appearance on Fox New's Outnumbered, Ms McEnany discussed recent polling in Iowa which suggested Mr DeSantis was narrowing the gap with the former president since he announced his run for the president's office. It was not clear which poll Mr Trump and Ms McEnany were referencing, although a poll from Emerson College Polling showed the former president leading Mr DeSantis by 42 points in Iowa. Mr Trumps "erratic" rant on Truth Social left the Republicans livid who said they were upset and "at a loss for words". "Kayleigh is the kindest person and was the best press secretary to ever step foot in the White House," tweeted user Kambree. "There is ZERO excuse for degrading or belittling her to this degree over a few points." Kayleigh is the kindest person and was the best press secretary to ever step foot in the White House. There is ZERO excuse for degrading or belittling her to this degree over a few points. I am upset, and at a loss for words. This erratic behavior is concerning. pic.twitter.com/nmksKn28Z8 Kambree (@KamVTV) May 31, 2023 "Praising Andrew Cuomo. Insulting Kayleigh McEnany . what happened to Trump," asked Christina Pushaw. Praising Andrew Cuomo Insulting Kayleigh McEnany what happened to Trump? Christina Pushaw (@ChristinaPushaw) May 31, 2023 "Hes completely unhinged," said columnist Marc Thiessen on Twitter. "Kayleigh McEnany was one of the best people to serve in his administration. Hes losing control, lashing out at anyone and everyone who does not tow his line. Sad." Hes completely unhinged. @kayleighmcenany was one of the best people to serve in his administration. Hes losing control, lashing out at anyone and everyone who does not tow his line. Sad. https://t.co/XVMbxeZe6p Marc Thiessen & (@marcthiessen) May 31, 2023 TRASH. Kayleigh was one of THE greatest talents in the trump admin. He knows it, we know it, and conservative leaning suburban female voters know it, tweeted Alex Clark. TRASH. Kayleigh was one of THE greatest talents in the trump admin. He knows it, we know it, and conservative leaning suburban female voters know it. https://t.co/hLy2k0Kqu0 Alex Clark (@yoalexrapz) May 31, 2023 This is perhaps Trumps lowest moment. Kayleigh McEnany defended Trump during some of the most trying moments of his presidency while enduring endless personal attacks from the media, wrote Bradley Stein. Drivers are advised to avoid the northbound Interstate 5 off- and on-ramps at Trosper Road Southwest in Tumwater Thursday evening. Work crews plan to close the ramps at Exit 102 from 9 p.m. Thursday to 5 a.m. Friday, according to a City of Tumwater news release. During the closure, crews will shift the lanes west by applying new lane markings. The shifts are needed because workers require more space to build a new roundabout, according to the release. The project is part of the Capitol Boulevard Corridor Project, an effort to improve traffic and safety on Trosper Road from the I-5 overpass to Capitol Boulevard. Drivers can avoid the lane closures by taking detours via Exit 101 to Tumwater Boulevard or Exit 103 to Deschutes Way. The city says it chose to schedule the ramp closures at night because theres typically less traffic then. The city cautions that the ramp closure schedule may change due to weather, equipment or other delays. The Capitol Boulevard Corridor Project costs about $12.5 million, according to the project website. The Washington State Transportation Improvement Board funds most of the project by providing $9.8 million. The citys Transportation Fund provides $3.2 million. Crews previously completed months of utility work along Capitol Boulevard north and south of Trosper Road, according to the website. The current work is focused on reconfiguring Trosper Road and Capitol Boulevard by adding three roundabouts and a new street, Sixth Avenue, from Lee Street to Trosper Road. Construction is expected to last through mid-2024. A TV screen shows a file image of North Korea's rocket launch during a news program at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. A broadcast showing North Koreas rocket launch at the Seoul Railway Station in South Korea on May 31, 2023. North Koreas attempt to launch a military satellite to orbit ended in failure as the rocket suffered a malfunction mid-flight, triggering air raid sirens in neighboring countries. The attempted launch was condemned as a violation of international agreements, but North Korea says its determined to carry out a second attempt soon. The Chollima-1 rocket rocket launched at 5:27 p.m. ET on Tuesday (6:27 a.m. local time on Wednesday) from the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground, carrying the Malligyong-1 spy satellite, North Korean state news agency KCNA reported. The rocket lost thrust after the first stage separation due to an abnormal startup of the engine on the vehicles second stage that may have been caused by an instability in the engine and fuel system, according to KCNA. Read more Following its malfunction, the rocket tumbled down and crashed into the sea off the west coast of the Korean Peninsula. Its crash triggered a false state of emergency in parts of South Korea and Japan, sounding off air raid alarms and evacuation warnings. North Korea is trying to salvage rocket parts from the sea and investigate the exact cause of the anomaly in an effort to resolve any issues before attempting a second launch of the satellite, KCNA reported. Even before the rocket crashed into the sea, its launch was deemed controversial due to an international ban on North Korea from using ballistic missile technology. Before Wednesdays launch, North Korea had announced its upcoming attempt to launch its first military reconnaissance satellite between May 31 and June 11, its purpose being to monitor the United States military activities. The U.S. joined Japan and South Korea in condemning the launch of North Koreas military reconnaissance satellite, calling it an attempt by North Korea to advance its missile program. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the White House condemned the launch as a brazen violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions, raises tensions, and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region and beyond. Japan was on high alert ahead of the launch, ordering its Self Defense Force to shoot down the satellite if it entered into Japanese territory, Japan Times reported. Wednesdays failed launch was the sixth satellite launch attempt by North Korea but the first one in six years. The country currently has two satellites in orbit, but neither are spy satellites. For more spaceflight in your life, follow us on Twitter and bookmark Gizmodos dedicated Spaceflight Spaceflight page. More from Gizmodo Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Rockland prosecutors are picking up the investigation into alleged election fraud in the Mount Kisco mayors race after Westchester District Attorney Mimi Rocah recused herself because of ties to one of the candidates. The investigation centers on allegations that William Serratore, chairman of the Mount Kisco Democratic party, and his son, Carmelo, included forged signatures on nominating petitions they collected on behalf of Thomas Luzio. Luzio, a former longtime Westchester prosecutor, is facing Deputy Mayor Lisa Abzun in the June 27 Democratic primary. He had left the DAs Office before Rocah's election in November 2020 but he was an advisor to her campaign and served on her transition team. Westchester District Attorney Mimi Rocah In her request for a special prosecutor last week, Rocah told acting state Supreme Court Justice James McCarty that she believed her office could have investigated the allegations "under the highest standards of prosecutorial conduct" but that a special prosecutor was appropriate "to avoid any appearance of impropriety or any prospective conflict of interest." Rockland DA Thomas Walsh had agreed to pick up the case and McCarty appointed him. Walsh's office would keep it from the investigation through any disposition if criminal charges are brought. There are no allegations that Luzio acted improperly in the collection of nominating signatures. But after a petition challenge to the Board of Elections was deemed untimely, a lawyer for Abzun on April 20 asked the DAs Office to investigate the petition pages collected by the Serratores. Abzun has said that Luzio should drop out of the race if forgeries are confirmed as Serratore, a seasoned political player, was acting on his behalf. Thomas Luzio, candidate for Mount Kisco mayor Mount Kisco Deputy Mayor Lisa Abzun, running for mayor Alleged fraud: Prosecutors to look at allegedly fraudulent nominating signatures in Mount Kisco mayor race Court ruling: Clarkstown term limits law voided by New York high court, letting Hoehmann run again The lawyer provided an affidavit from a private investigator hired by the Abzun campaign attesting to interviews with people who purportedly had signed the Luzio petitions but insisted they had not. The campaign also provided affidavits from several people who said their signatures were forged. Five days later the lawyer met with a DA investigator and on April 28 Rocah's press office acknowledged she would be recusing herself. It was not until May 24 that Rocah formally requested the appointment of a special prosecutor and McCarty ordered Walsh's appointment the next day. Jin Whang, a spokeswoman for Rocah, said Wednesday that the application took that amount of time primarily because four other DAs in the region said they were unable to accept the case. William Serratore did not respond to messages seeking comment when The Journal News/lohud first reported the investigation. But after the article appeared online May 1, he texted a reporter saying the Board of Elections had rejected Abzun's claims and she could have gone to court but did not. He suggested she was only seeking a headline about an investigation that would damage Luzio's candidacy. Rockland District Attorney Thomas Walsh The MK Dem Committee voted not (to) endorse her and she blames me for that, he wrote. This is political partisan nonsense. But the elections board never took up the merits of Abzuns claims and when asked in a follow up to comment on the allegations that he had submitted forged signatures, Serratore never responded. He did not immediately respond to messages on Wednesday. This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Mount Kisco NY alleged election fraud: Rockland DA will investigate A 27-year-old man who faced up to 300 years in state prison on charges he carried on a sexual relationship with a missing 15-year-old girl, going from hotel to hotel while shopping illicit videos of the pair on social media, will instead spend 12 years behind bars. Temrom Juan McFarlane, of Rockledge, pled guilty to 60 counts of child pornography, human trafficking, interference with custody, promoting sexual performance by a child and use of a child in a sexual performance stemming from the 2021 case. Prosecutors reached a plea agreement that allowed the sentences for each to run concurrently. McFarlane will instead serve 12 years in state prison and receive 10 years of probation, records show. More: Her son was shot on Mother's Day weekend. His death has her seeking answers and an arrest Unfortunately, this kind of activity is more common that people realize, said Detective Chris Zuniga of the Cocoa Police Department about human trafficking cases. There have been cases of children looking for attention through social media and trying to gain that attention from older adults that they shouldnt be speaking with. Parents and guardians need to be aware of the actions of their teenagers and children." A 27-year-old charged with human trafficking will head to prison for 12 years after pleading guilty Florida ranks third in the nation for human trafficking cases, with half of the victims being minors, according to Florida Health, the state agency tasked with raising awareness about the issue. Investigators said McFarlane who will also be registered as a sex offender for the remainder of his life kept videos and photos of the teen on his phone that showed him engaged in numerous sexual acts. McFarlanes face could also be seen in the illicit videos with the underage girl, reports show. Officers used a search warrant to secure the phone and found a number of the explicit videos and pictures they say were used to make money with online clients. The case unfolded Jan. 12, 2021, when a Cocoa police search for a missing Palm Bay foster care teen led to the Budget Inn Hotel at 4150 W. King St. Both the runaway found outside the hotel room and an older man, later named as McFarlane, were taken into custody for questioning. McFarlane told police that he had known the girl was underage and that a family member confronted him. The teen then 10 weeks pregnant told investigators that she was living in a Palm Bay group home called Friends of Children and Families when she first met McFarlane in June 2019. McFarlane, then 24, would repeatedly call the victim on behalf of another person she had met. The teen and McFarlane began texting and communicating through Snapchat and Instagram. By September, the two were dating, smoking marijuana and taking Percocet and pain relievers. McFarlane supplied the drugs, reports show. More: Trail of deception: Cocoa Beach man hopes to recover money lost to investor friend By December 2020, the girl was reported missing to police. Police said the pair began having sex and taking drugs at various hotels in Satellite Beach, Cocoa and Palm Bay, living off of his stimulus check and unemployment benefits he received after being laid off during the pandemic, reports show. McFarlane also used the teens social media accounts to get money from "clidents" by sending nude photos and videos of the pairs sexual activities. Police said the teen believed the two made up to $35,000 from the illicit social media scam. The seized phone also contained several of the text messages from potential clients, with Cashapp memos reading for the "daddy package" and other notes. Police warned that parents and guardians should be mindful of social media and the access it provides outsiders to teens. "There are definitely other victims out there that get caught up in similar situations, where someone takes advantage of them for profit," Zuniga said. "Or someone who makes them believe that they genuinely care for them or a friendship of some kind where they will offer assistance of some kind to these young women or men and takes advantage of their situation." J.D. Gallop is a Criminal Justice/Breaking News Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Gallop at 321-917-4641 or jgallop@floridatoday.com. Twitter: @JDGallop. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Rockledge man avoids 300 years in prison after plea in Cocoa sex case Speaking to voters for the first time as a presidential candidate, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday night pitched himself as a get-things-done executive whose record shows how he would bring conservative solutions to Washington. Kicking off a two-day swing through the first state that will hold a presidential nominating contest next year, DeSantis spoke in the Des Moines, Iowa, suburb of Clive at Eternity Church. Eternity's Australian pastor, Jesse Newman, received a thunderous reception when he took the stage before DeSantis at what was billed as DeSantis' "campaign kickoff." More than 1,000 people attended the rally, forcing the campaign to set up two overflow spaces, according to DeSantis' team. Before that, he and wife Casey met with "15 local pastors" who prayed "over the family and the Governor's candidacy," a spokesperson said. The governor, who entered the 2024 race last week, initially stayed away from Donald Trump in his speech, saving his verbal right hooks for a post-speech news conference and marking some of his sharpest criticism to date of the former president, seen as his chief competitor in the primary. For his speech, DeSantis focused on some of the same policy and culture war themes that have made him hugely popular in Florida -- and polarizing among Democrats. His wife, Casey, joined him on stage and made brief remarks of her own. "Our great American comeback starts by sending [President] Joe Biden back to his basement in Delaware," DeSantis declared at the start of his rally, before going on to criticize the "failed policies" flowing out of Washington -- on crime, on the southern border, on energy production and on the state of the economy, including the cost of living, the "dereliction of duty" in the withdrawal from Afghanistan and more. More broadly, DeSantis attacked "elites," who had "continued to plunge this nation into the abyss," and "woke ideology," which he said unfairly singled out conservatives for unequal treatment. "If Hunter were a Republican, he would have been in jail years ago," DeSantis said to loud applause from the crowd, referring to the president's younger son, who is currently under federal investigation. (Hunter Biden denies wrongdoing.) PHOTO: Florida Governor Ron Desantis kicks off his campaign for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination with his first official campaign event being an evening rally at the evangelical Eternity church in West Des Moines, Iowa, May 30, 2023. (Scott Morgan/Reuters) The president "has weaponized the power of the administrative state to advance his left-wing agenda," DeSantis argued. "We will constitutionalize the executive branch, and we will bring this administrative state to heel once and for all. It requires a disciplined, energetic president who will spit nails and fight the needed battles every single day over an eight-year period." After his speech, the governor spent nearly 15 minutes working the rope line beneath the stage, taking pictures with supporters, signing their merchandise and engaging in short conversations with them. Campaigning in Iowa has long meant up-close-and-personal interactions with voters, who relish their ability to size up White House hopefuls. But DeSantis has faced some scrutiny -- and "awkward" headlines -- about how he handles retail politics, something he is not well known for. Supporters at Tuesday's event who spoke to ABC News after interacting with the governor said they saw no issues, however. "Not at all. I felt like he was very relatable," Hannah Streitman, a 23-year-old from near Tampa, said after chatting briefly with DeSantis about growing up in similar parts of Florida. Debt ceiling In his speech, DeSantis criticized the debt and budget deal brokered by Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, which is set to move through Congress only days before the nation defaults on its bills. "We now see Washington has cooked up their latest, quote, 'debt deal' And I can tell you this: Our nation was careening towards bankruptcy before the debt deal and it will still be careening towards bankruptcy after this debt deal," he said. "I can tell you in Florida, we run budget surpluses," he said. Disney fight DeSantis tested out his Disney attacks away from his home state and received a standing ovation when he proclaimed, "There will be no compromise." The governor is currently in a legal battle with Disney, ABC News' parent company, in the wake of Disney's opposition to a law in Florida limiting discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in some K-12 classrooms. Disney has also criticized Disney's decadeslong use of a self-governing district around its Florida theme parks. "All these Republicans are lining up against me to take the side of Disney. But I'll tell you this: We stand for the protection of our children, and on that point there will be no compromise," DeSantis said. PHOTO: Florida Governor and 2024 Presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis speaks during his campaign kickoff event at Eternity Church in Clive, Iowa, on May 30, 2023. (Andrew Caballero-reynolds/AFP via Getty Images) COVID-19 DeSantis emerged as a rising star in his party after pushing back on COVID-19 restrictions, and he has touted how he "cut against the grain." In his speech, he continued to criticize top health officials like Dr. Anthony Fauci, an adviser in the Trump and Biden administrations who has since retired. "You do not empower someone like Fauci. You bring him into the office and you tell him to back his bags," DeSantis said. As governor, he said, "We protected medical freedom by banning mandates for COVID shots." Casey DeSantis in the spotlight In her own speech to attendees, with her husband standing beside her, Casey DeSantis, a former TV reporter, gave voters insight into the DeSantis home, describing the challenges of raising three young children (joking about keeping them from using permanent marker on the dining room table at the Florida governor's mansion). "Our kids -- 6, 5 and 3 -- are the light of our lives. I mean, they are the reason why we fight. They give us so much happiness, a little exhaustion now and again, but don't think for a second when the governor doesn't come home at the end of a long day, I don't hand them to him," she said to laughs. "I get questions all the time about the governor. And one of the questions I get asked more than anything else is they say, 'We see him as a fighter on TV. Do we know whether he is going to be a fighter when he goes up to Washington, D.C.?" she said of her husband. "I can tell you, Ron DeSantis always stands up for what's right. He never backs down. He says what he's going to do and he gets it done." Going after Trump Speaking with reporters after his kickoff, Ron DeSantis fielded questions focused primarily on his differences with Trump. Gathering the swath of national and local reporters who attended the speech was, for the typically mainstream media-averse governor, novel. However, his campaign maintained a controlled environment over the briefing, with the governor calling on reporters whose names appear to have been written on a piece of paper on the lectern in front of him. Throughout the press conference, DeSantis fired shots at Trump, insisting that while his primary focus is Biden, "I'm going to respond to attacks." "We won the biggest election landslide that Florida Republicans have ever won. And did he [Trump] say anything like 'attaboy, good job'? No, he attacked me three days before the midterm election, and then he started attacking after that. And so, I'm just thinking to myself, you're a Florida resident. If I saw an election landslide I would be cheering that," he said. "He used to say how great Florida was. Hell, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship. Are you kidding me?" DeSantis said. PHOTO: Former President Donald Trump watches the first round of the LIV Golf Tournament at Trump National Golf Club, May 26, 2023, in Sterling, Va. (Alex Brandon/AP) An erstwhile ally who backed DeSantis' first gubernatorial campaign, Trump has been criticizing DeSantis for months, as it became more and more clear DeSantis would run against him in the primary. Among other issues, Trump targeted the governor's record given high COVID-19 deaths in Florida and said last week that DeSantis "desperately needs a personality transplant." On Tuesday, DeSantis seemed particularly upset by Trump's recent comments claiming that "[former New York Gov. Andrew] Cuomo did better" regarding COVID-19-related deaths per state. "The former president is now attacking me saying that Cuomo did better handling COVID than Florida did. I can tell you this. I can count the number of Republicans in this country on my hands that would rather have lived in New York under Cuomo than that lived in Florida and our freedom zones," DeSantis said. Later, in response to another question about Trump, DeSantis added, "I mean, we talked about COVID. Do you want Cuomo or do you want free Florida? If we just decided the caucuses on that, I would be very happy with that verdict by Iowa voters." DeSantis also challenged Trump to take a public stand on the debt ceiling deal in Washington. "Are you leading from the front or are you waiting for polls to tell you what to think?" he said. Voters react Alex Greadel, a 45-year-old Clive resident, registered Republican and self-described "Never Trumper" told ABC News that DeSantis posed a valuable contrast to the former president: Everything that's bad about Trump I don't see in DeSantis at all. He seems like a good man; Trump seems like a horrible person." DeSantis "seems like the only serious candidate," Greadel said, brushing off questions about the governor's style of retail politics. Alan Daut from Altoona, Iowa, said he was "absolutely" on board with DeSantis as "the guy who's most like Reagan and that's why I'm behind him 100%." "Manner of speaking, his political convictions, his conservative convictions, his belief in a strong defense. He's a no nonsense kind of guy," Daut said. He said he voted for Trump in both the 2016 and 2020 general elections but "we have to have somebody new. I think we've had our fair share of 80-year-old presidents." Another attendee, Anne Gregory, drew this distinction between the governor and the former president: "With DeSantis I think the difference between him and Trump, at least from my perspective, is he's someone that doesn't have the people are just stacked against him. People are just getting to know him. That's why we're here -- to learn more about him. So like Trump already has like people kind of stacked against him one way or another whether they like him or not." Iowa evangelical leader Bob Vander Plaats, who has a history of doling out influential primary endorsements, told ABC News in an interview before DeSantis' speech that he believes some of the discussion around DeSantis' ability to campaign is exaggerated. Vander Plaats predicted that DeSantis' travels throughout Iowa will give many locals a chance at a first impression and allow DeSantis to draw a persuasive link between what he's done in Florida and Iowa Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds' similarly conservative record. "I think [it's] part of drawing that connection, because you're always looking for a familiar ground with the people attending your events, and I think that'd be familiar ground," Vander Plaats said. ABC News' Arthur Jones and Alex Presha contributed to this report. DeSantis makes presidential campaign debut, calling for 'American comeback' and going after Trump originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Runner didnt know he nabbed invaluable find on CA beach until turning on the news As a runner trekked across a California beach, something caught his eye. Jim Smith, who frequently runs in the Aptos area in Santa Cruz County, kept on going, though, Liz Broughton, the visitor experience manager at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History told McClatchy News. But on his return, it captivated him once again, Broughton said. Smith thought it looked cool and interesting, Broughton said, so he picked it up and brought it home. Days later, he was shocked when an image of the very thing he brought home from the beach popped on screen while watching the news, according to Broughton. Smith, Broughton said, had brought home an ancient artifact a mastodon tooth. Jim Smith, pictured outside the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, happened upon a mastodon tooth while on a run. The museums search for the tooth Unbeknownst to Smith, Wayne Thompson, a paleontologist with the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History, had been frantically searching for the tooth. Just days before, Thompson told McClatchy News he came across a womans Facebook post, questioning what she may have found near Aptos Creek on Rio Del Mar Beach on Friday, May 26, after someone tagged him in the post. I took a look at it, and I knew it was a mastodon tooth, Thompson said. The out-of-town woman, however, did not pick up the tooth, and when Thompson went to search for it alongside her, it was gone, he said. With it being a holiday weekend on the beach, odds were never in our favor, Broughton said. But (Thompson) definitely put in the effort. Given its location, Thompson said he didnt think the tooth would have been washed away with high tide. Rather, he suspected someone plucked it off the beach and took it home. I had very, very little hope that it would ever be found again, but I did have hope, Thompson said. So, he made posts on social media asking the person to come forward. We are currently ISO (in search of) anyone who might have recovered this tooth off the beach at the mouth of Aptos Creek at Rio del Mar, Thompson wrote in an Instagram post. It is an extremely important specimen: the worn molar of an adult extinct Pacific Mastodon, Mammut pacificus. The only other documented mastodon specimen from Santa Cruz County, a juvenile mastodon skull with two teeth, was found in the exact same area in the 1980s, Thompson said. Fossils in Santa Cruz County are fairly rare, Broughton said. That makes this find pretty invaluable to science. Liz Broughton pictured holding a recently discovered mastodon tooth beside the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural Historys mastodon display. The odds of finding the tooth, which could help add to the picture of what ancient life may have looked like and how things have changed over time, were stacked against the museum, according to Broughton. Then, as Smith tuned into a news segment about the tooth, the museums odds shifted. A happy ending Broughton said she got a phone call on the afternoon of Tuesday, May 30. It was Smith, Broughton said. He wanted to donate the fossil. It was a happy ending, Broughton said. Liz Broughton and Jim Smith pictured at the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History beside the museums mastodon display. Shortly after the phone call, Smith brought the tooth, estimated to be about 10 inches long, to the museum. When it was turned in, I was absolutely amazed, Thompson said. Thompson said the museum plans to run tests to figure out the tooths age before putting it on display. Right now, based on the carbon date from plant matter in the area where the other mastodon specimen was found, he said he believes it is about 5,000 years old. Broughton said the tooth will add to the knowledge of mastodons here in California. Theres a finite number of those specimens in museum collections as well, Broughton said. So its just another specimen that can contribute to the full body of paleontological science, which is really exciting. Thompson said such finds are few and far between, with this particular specimen being exceedingly rare, as there is only one other piece of evidence that we have that has surfaced in the last 40 years. Its a miracle it was returned, he said. 9-year-old thought he found a plastic container. It was actually a mammoth tooth Dog finds 6 million-year-old mastodon bone at Hanford. Where to go see it Once in a lifetime find, Boy finds massive, extinct shark tooth on SC vacation. Check it out Russell County identifies man who was killed by deputy in water department altercation One man is dead after displaying a gun to sheriffs deputies after an earlier altercation with water department employees Wednesday in Russell County, according to Russell County Sheriff Heath Taylor. The man, who authorities identified Thursday as 47-year-old Daniel William Mooneyham, was involved in an fight with Russell County Waterworks employees who were attempting to shut off his water at his property, according to Taylor. Taylor said during the altercation with waterworks employees Mooneyham fired a gun. The waterworks employees were unharmed, Taylor said. Two sheriffs deputies responded to the Water Works building around 12:06 p.m. Wednesday, where they observed a man leaving, Taylor said. After receiving a description from waterworks employees, the deputies recognized Mooneyham as the man they had seen leaving the parking lot, according to Taylor. The deputies went after and located the vehicle and pulled it over. At some point during the stop, Mooneyham pulled a gun on the deputies, Taylor said. Daniel William Mooneyham, 47. Courtesy of Russell County Sheriff's Office Taylor said one sheriffs deputy pulled his weapon and fired shots at Mooneyham and struck him. Mooneyham later died and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Russell County coroner, according to Taylor. It is unknown whether Mooneyham fired at the deputies or if the gun was legally owned. Taylor said Mooneyham was in possession of multiple guns in the vehicle. Taylor also said Mooneyham was listed in their computer as having been denied for a pistol permit before a new Alabama law was passed not requiring pistol permits within the state. Taylor said Mooneyham was listed as having a mental condition who owned a weapon. The deputies have been placed on administrative leave with pay, Taylor said. The deputies are also unharmed, Taylor said. The incident was captured on video, according to Taylor. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation have taken over the investigation. This is a result, unfortunately, of a weapon being pointed at a deputy at a traffic stop, said Taylor. I am truly sorry that he has lost his life. My guys dont take it lightly. We dont take it for granted, he added Its the last thing we want to do, but unfortunately in the world we live in it has to be done from time to time. In Russia, large-scale facilities are being built for sorting and storing the corpses of the occupiers killed in the war against Ukraine. Source: press service of Ukraine's Defence Intelligence Quote: "In Kursk and Rostov-on-Don, the Russians are building large-scale facilities for sorting, analysing, and storing the corpses of personnel eliminated in the war against Ukraine." Details: According to the Ukrainian military agency, the area of each object is more than 4,000 square metres. The facilities are supposed to include: posts for conducting investigative actions and research on bodies; refrigerators with 1,000 refrigerating chambers; warehouses with coffins and other funeral necessities; mourning hall According to Ukrainian intelligence, the estimated cost of building such a facility in Rostov-on-Don is about 600 million roubles (roughly US$ 7.4 million), and in Kursk it's more than 800 million roubles (approximately US$9.8 million). The cost of refrigeration equipment is estimated at more than a billion roubles for each facility. Quote: "The Chief Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine states that terrorist Russia is no longer able to hide the scale of personnel losses in the war against Ukraine. The construction of these facilities on the territory of Moscow confirms the fact that Putin's regime is sending its occupying army on a deadly assembly line but is unable to cope with the flow of the dead." Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Russia can no longer hide the scale of its personnel losses in the war against Ukraine Each of these complexes is over 4,000 square meters in area. The facilities will include: Points for conducting investigative actions and research on bodies Refrigerated warehouses with cold storage for 1,000 corpses Warehouses with coffins and other funeral decorations A mourning hall Read also: Russia abandons several villages in Belgorod Oblast, Russian partisans now fighting in Moscow Oblast HUR The HUR noted that the planned cost of the construction of the complexes for the killed Russian troops in Rostov-on-Don is estimated at about 600 million rubles ($7.4 million), and in Kursk at more than 800 million rubles ($9.9 million). In addition, the cost of refrigeration equipment is estimated at more than one billion rubles ($12.3 million) for each complex. HUR states that Russia can no longer hide the scale of its personnel losses in the war on Ukraine. The construction of these facilities inside Russia confirms the fact that Putin's regime is sending its occupation army to a deadly conveyor belt, but cannot cope with the flow of casualties, the statement said. The military intelligence also stressed that every Russian soldier who has not committed war crimes can still surrender. Read also: Ukrainian woman trying to return children illegally deported from occupied territories detained in Moscow 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 UK Ministry of Defence has stated that in recent weeks, Russian troops have lost the initiative in the war and are forced to respond to the action. Source: UK Defence Intelligence on 31 May, reported by European Pravda Quote: "Since the start of May 2023, Russia has increasingly ceded the initiative in the conflict and is reacting to Ukrainian action rather than actively progressing towards its own war aims." Details: They have stated that during May 2023, Russia carried out 20 nighttime unilateral attacks with drones and cruise missiles deep inside Ukraine. However, Russia did not have significant success in achieving its alleged goals: neutralising Ukraine's advanced air defences and destroying Ukrainian air defence forces. On the ground, Russia redeployed its troops to respond to underground resistance movements attacks in western Russia. Quote: "Operationally, Russian commanders are likely attempting to generate reserve forces and position them where they believe a Ukrainian counter-attack will occur. However, this has probably been undermined by uncommitted forces instead being sent to fill gaps in the front line around Bakhmut." Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 31 May 2023. Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/wQzgpFMEfU #StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/2GmVBRftKQ Ministry of Defence (@DefenceHQ) May 31, 2023 Background: The day before, the UK Intelligence had reported that Russia's military spending was almost certainly high, putting pressure on its public finances. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Fighters of the Russian Volunteer Corps Ukraines resistance to Putins invasion has demolished the idea of Russian invincibility. Everyone knows Russia is not the unbeatable empire Moscow was at pains to portray itself as both outwardly and inwardly. And just as Russia is trying to claim Ukraine as its own, other countries are eyeing chunks of Russian land, spotting an opportunity as the war shows just how weak the Russian army is. Nations within Russia are waiting for the right time to oust the bully. The Kremlin should be wary of promoting a world where it is acceptable to seize territories through force; it only invites others to join in and claim parts of Russia for themselves. Japan was the first country to break its silence after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year. Tokyo said of the Kuril Islands that it was completely unacceptable that the Northern Territories have yet to be returned since the Soviet Unions illegal occupation of them 77 years ago. That annexation saw the expulsion of Japanese people from the southern islands, and since then, the countries have failed to reach a compromise. Talks broke down when Putin showed he was not willing to share lands but only to gain new ones. Then China started drawing maps marking part of Siberia and the Russian Far East region as originally Chinese. Great areas of Chinese land were annexed by Russia in the 19th century. Unable to claim this territory back in a peaceful way, Beijing has pursued economic expansion around Baikal and has been actively purchasing and leasing lands near the border. In Poland, there are narratives suggesting that Russia occupied the Kaliningrad region in 1945, and that Warsaw has the right to claim it. Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and even Ukraine could also stake interests in vying for Russian lands. Russian fighters infiltrating the Belgorod region under the Ukrainian flag served as a reminder to Putin that others could also reclaim their primordial territories. Kyiv aims to restore its 1991 borders and end the war. Yet the prospect of exiled Russians on tanks turning Russian border regions into national republics is seen as a welcomed payback for Moscows deeds in the Donbas. As Moscow pursues the expansion of its European borders, national autonomies in Russia and their exiled leaders envision the decolonization of Russia, dreaming of dividing it into 34 independent states. For now, national liberation movements are absent due to oppression and persecution within Russia. When the Soviet Union fell apart, several regions of Russia declared their state sovereignty but were silenced. These regions have constitutions stating their sovereignty as separate states, with power-sharing treaties governing their relationship with Moscow. These norms are dormant, but they can be activated as soon as the regime demonstrates its inability to keep the empire under control. The Kremlin has well-founded fears of a possible cascade of sovereignties in Russia. The Russian economy relies on resource redistribution from the regions to Moscow. The prospect of gaining control over their own finances could prompt local elites to seek independence. The destruction of Chechnya showed other nations that were forcibly joined to Russia how Moscow handles separatists. Still, the Kremlin pushes the population of these regions to the edge, throwing their men into the battlefield in Ukraine as cannon fodder. The poorest regions in Russia were affected by conscription the most. Anti-war rallies have taken place in Dagestan, Kalmykia and Buryatia, with the republics leaders speaking out against the conscription. They feel they are treated as second-class citizens based on ethnicity compared to those residing in St. Petersburg or Moscow. The mounting number of caskets delivered from the front line to small towns and villages further fuels the flames. Once ignited, the liberation movement could sweep through numerous regions, leaving the regime with only those territories firmly aligned with the Russian narrative and unwilling to break free from imperial rule. The Ukrainian government believes that Russias imperialistic ambitions must end with justice for everyone. It has recognised the Kuril Islands and Chechen Republic of Ichkeria as temporarily occupied by Russia and supports the exiled politicians of Russian national minorities. Ukraine insists that to achieve a prolonged peace in Eastern Europe, Moscows troops must leave not only Crimea and Donbas but also Transnistria, Abkhazia, Nagorno-Karabakh. It is an idealistic dream, almost impossible, because Putin wont give up an inch of land for free. Still, Moscow would be wise to watch its back. It may end up reaping what it has sown as Russian lands prove too tempting for its neighbours and its oppressed citizens. Svitlana Morenets is a Ukrainian journalist and staff writer at the Spectator 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. The work of the Air Defense Forces of Ukraine The invaders continue to maneuver persistently in the Black Sea, constantly moving missile carriers, Humeniuk said. Their number increased to four during the day on May 30, and one was brought closer to the base in the evening. As of 6.30 p.m., the cumulative missile salvo could potentially reach 16, including one surface and two underwater missile carriers, Humeniuk said. Launches from submarines are somewhat more difficult to detect, said Humeniuk. She believes that the enemy may be preparing a stealthy attack using mixed types of ammunition, such as drones and missiles. It is quite probable that maritime-based missiles will now be employed, as they have refrained from using sea-based missile carriers for a considerable time. Presumably, they have somehow orchestrated the situation for future attacks, Humeniuk said. Read also: ICC team arrives in Kherson to document Russian war crimes She acknowledged the potential involvement of hostile aviation, saying that the Russians actively attempt to locate and bypass anti-aircraft defense systems to strike. She emphasized the need to be prepared for these developments. The enemy employs wave-like attacks and various types of weaponry to identify Ukraines air defense capabilities, she said. The first wave identifies the locations of the air defense systems, and the second wave is capable of directly targeting the anti-aircraft defense systems. The utilization of both drones and missiles necessitates the implementation of various countermeasures, including mobile firing groups, anti-aircraft installations, and assistance from partner forces. This is the objective of the enemy, she said while underscoring the importance of not filming or publicly sharing the operation of air defense systems. Since the beginning of May, Russian invaders have carried out 17 mass strikes on Kyiv using missiles and kamikaze drones. Most of the attacks occurred at night, but on May 29, the invaders altered their tactics and conducted a noon strike on Kyiv using Iskander ballistic missiles. During the night of May 30, Russia launched its third mass attack on Kyiv within a single day. The air defense forces successfully intercepted and shot down 29 out of 31 Iranian Shahed kamikaze drones, with most falling over the capital. Debris from the intercepted drones fell in various districts of Kyiv, resulting in a multi-story residential building in the Holosiivskyi district catching fire. The fire engulfed two floors, leading to the evacuation of over 20 people. Overall, there was one fatality and 11 injuries in Kyiv. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine ZNPP under the occupation of the Russian Federation during the visit by the IAEA mission September 1-02, 2022 Grossi has tried for months to craft an agreement to reduce the risk of a catastrophic nuclear accident from military activity, like shelling, at Europes biggest nuclear power plant. Speaking to the U.N. Security Council, his five principles included the following: Read also: Workers at ZNPP forced to sign contracts with Rosatom under duress, Ukraine says There should be no attack on or from the plant No heavy weapons, such as multiple rocket launchers, artillery systems and munitions, and tanks or military personnel should be housed there Off-site power to the plant should remain available and secure All essential systems should be protected from attacks or sabotage No actions should be taken that undermine these principles Mr. Grossis proposals to ensure the security of the Zaporizhzhya NPP are in line with the measures that weve already been implementing for a long time, Russias U.N. Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya said. Read also: IAEA head optimistic for safety zone around ZNPP Ukraines ambassador to the United Nations, Sergiy Kyslytsya, said the principles must be complemented with the demand of full demilitarization and de-occupation of the station. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously emphasized that the only way to protect Europe from a nuclear disaster is to demilitarize the ZNPP. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said in late March that the IAEA had abandoned the idea of a demilitarized zone around the ZNPP. According to the director general, the agency is looking for a behavioral rather than a territorial solution, which would involve a commitment not to attack the power plant or use it for attacks. Read also: Without ZNPP, Ukraine to continue living with electricity deficit The largest nuclear power plant in Europe the Zaporizhzhya NPP was captured by the Russian invaders after fighting in the town of Enerhodar on March 4, 2022. The buildings of the ZNPP were damaged by Russian shelling in several places, and the plants employees were taken captive. Russian troops have set up firing positions at the ZNPP and shell Ukrainian cities from the location, understanding that Ukrainian forces cannot return fire for fear of damaging the plants six nuclear reactors. Invading Russian forces continue to use the ZNPP as a logistical and military base, Ukraines Main Intelligence Directorate reported on May 24. 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 Southern District Military Court of Rostov-on-Don, Russia, has announced the sentence for Rustem Murasov, Dzhebbar Bekirov, Zavur Abdullaiev and Rustem Tairov, the defendants in the case of the "Crimean Muslims case". Source: Attorney Emil Kurbedinov, quoted by Radio Liberty Details: All the men were arrested in the case of the "second Sevastopol group of Hizb ut-Tahrir" [Hizb ut-Tahrir is an international pan-Islamist and fundamentalist political organisation whose stated aim is to establish the Islamic caliphate, unite the Muslim community, and implement sharia globally ed.]. Bekirov was sentenced to 17 years in prison, while the others to 12 years in a high-security penal colony. They will spend the first four years in prison. Quote by Kurbedinov: "An unjustified, illegal sentence. These people are not criminals, what they did was absolute good, they helped other families, came to the courts, supported them; they had their own position, they practised their religion." Background: In August 2021, Russian secret service in Crimea conducted five searches in the homes of Crimean Tatars at once, after which they detained activists Rustem Murasov and Rustem Tairov. Dzhebbar Bekirov was arrested in the Balaklava district, activist Zavur Abdullaiev was apprehended in the Bakhchysarai district, and Raume Fevziiev in the Simferopol district. The Crimean Solidarity NGO, citing lawyer Oleksii Ladin, reported that the detained Crimean Tatars are suspected of "creating and participating in a terrorist organisation". At the time, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called these searches and detentions of Crimean Tatars by the Russian secret service a "blatant violation of human rights", and the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry handed an official protest to Russia. Earlier in May 2023, the Russian Southern District Military Court in Rostov-on-Don sentenced Crimean Tatar activist Ernes Seitosmanov to 18 years in a maximum security prison. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Russian energy giant Gazprom's private security force was deployed to fight in Ukraine, report says Wagner has become increasingly central to Putin's strategy in Ukraine as Russian troops and supplies dwindle. Getty Images Gazprom's private security companies have forces fighting in the Ukraine war, the Wall Street Journal said. The energy giant got the go-ahead to establish a security force in February. "I want to tell my colleagues at Gazprom: Don't go to Ukraine, stay at home." Russia's state-owned energy company Gazprom now supplies more than just natural gas. According to the Wall Street Journal, it is actively helping provide manpower to the frontlines of Russia's war on Ukraine. First authorized by the Kremlin to do so in early February, the energy giant has spent recent months establishing private security companies and recruiting additional troops for Russia's war, often fighting under the directive of the Defense Ministry. Though the security firms were founded on the pretext of defending Russia's energy sector, recruits ended up in Ukraine weeks later, WSJ reported. Some in the group, made up of former soldiers and company security personnel, were forcibly recruited, adding they they were trained at a Russian base, and shipped off to Bakhmut, the area of eastern Ukraine that has seen the fiercest fighting in recent months. "I want to tell my colleagues at Gazprom: Don't go to Ukraine, stay at home," a former Gazprom security guard, who was sent to Ukraine and was injured, said in a video obtained by WSJ. The company didn't immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Gazprom didn't respond to the Journal's request for comment. Compared to the Wagner Group a private militia of 50,000 that has played a significant role in Russia's military effort Gazprom's collective force is smaller, accounting for thousands of recruits. However, they are paid higher wages and tend to be better trained. The energy firm's efforts may also provide some solution to Russia's growing manpower shortage, as President Vladimir Putin seems reluctant to issue another mobilization decree, the WSJ said. That's after an October mobilization of 300,000 recruits led to a mass exodus of citizenry out of Russia, contributing to a record labor shortage in the country. But interest in private security groups is growing in Russia, with other mercenary forces fighting in Ukraine. This includes recruits from former security contractor Redut, and from Patriot, an established private security force. Meanwhile, Gazprom has had a difficult year in energy markets, as the Ukraine war led to Western sanctions and restricted trade. Last year, the Kremlin also cut off Europe from most gas supplies delivered via pipeline, though Russia still exports liquefied natural gas. In January, the company said revenue was nearly $3 billion lower than in the previous year. Read the original article on Business Insider The Russian government has banned the export of ammunition and cartridge cases from the country until the end of the year. Source: Meduza with reference to the Russian governmental site Details: According to the decree, it is prohibited to export cartridges for civil and service rifled weapons and cartridge cases for rifles of certain calibres. The ban does not apply to the export of cartridges and cartridge cases to support the activities of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, as well as other troops and formations. Meduza reports that the ban will remain in effect until 2023. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Russians came up with another method of forced passportization in occupied territories of Ukraine The Russian invaders are threatening to leave the employees of a government-funded institution of the occupied settlement of Stanytsia Luhanska in Luhansk Oblast without salaries if they do not obtain Russian citizenship. Source: report of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook Quote: "The invaders continue to impose Russian citizenship on the population in various ways. In the settlement of Stanytsia Luhanska, employees of one of the government-funded institutions were warned that in June, only those who have re-registered at a Russian bank will be able to receive their salary. Background: The invaders are threatening citizens who refuse to obtain Russian citizenship with deportation and confiscation of property in the occupied territories of Kherson Oblast. The occupiers are threatening to cut off the electricity supply to the homes of residents who do not have Russian passports in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Ryan Gosling has a hilarious response to those who say hes too old to play Ken in Barbie movie Ryan Gosling channeled his Ken-ergy to defend himself against those who think hes too old to play doll Ken in the new Barbie movie. The origin of this silliness began back in April when the first Barbie movie trailer was released and a debate on social media ensued, with some users voicing their opinion that the 42-year-old actor appeared too grown up to play Ken. If people dont want to play with my Ken, there are many other Kens to play with, Gosling said in a new GQ interview published on Wednesday in response to those skeptics. He went on to say that he thinks this discourse is funny given that for 60 years, (Kens) job has been beach and that everyone was fine with that, for him to have a job that is nothing. But suddenly, its like, No, weve cared about Ken this whole time. No, you didnt. You never did. You never cared, he said, adding that if you ever really cared about Ken, you would know that nobody cared about Ken. So your hypocrisy is exposed. (From left) Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie in 'Barbie.' - Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures The person who does care about Ken, and deeply so, is Gosling, who admitted with a laugh that he now feels like Kens representative. Gosling also spoke about the various factors that compelled him to take on the role of the iconic Mattel doll in the Greta Gerwig-directed comedy, with one of the main draws being the opportunity to be part of a film that put female characters out front. The film stars Margot Robbie, alongside Issa Rae, Kate McKinnon, Hari Nef and America Ferrera, among many others. But in terms of his impetus to take on the role of Barbies main squeeze, Gosling talked about how his two daughters, whom he shares with his longtime partner Eva Mendes, play with Barbie and Ken dolls. I did see him, like, face down in the mud outside one day, next to a squished lemon, Gosling told the outlet of his daughters Ken doll, adding that such a sight inspired him to think, This guys story does need to be told, you know? Barbie will hit theaters on July 21. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Ryan Gosling has shared a rare glimpse into his relationship with actor Eva Mendes and his journey to becoming a father. In a new cover story for the June/July 2023 issue of GQ, the Barbie actor opened up about the moment he learned Mendes was expecting their first child. Gosling, 42, and Mendes, 49, started dating in 2011 after they starred opposite each other in The Place Beyond the Pines, in which they played a couple with an infant son. Prior to their relationship, Gosling admitted that he didnt think much about becoming a father until the moment Mendes told him she was pregnant. Eva said she was pregnant, he recalled. I would never want to go back, you know? Im glad I didnt have control over my destiny in that way, because it was so much better than I ever had dreamed for myself. The couple soon welcomed their first child, daughter Esmeralda, in 2014, followed by a second daughter, Amada, in 2016. Despite multiple reports speculating that the pair are secretly married, neither Gosling nor Mendes have confirmed their relationship status. For the past decade, Gosling and Mendes have managed to keep many details about their relationship private. Although the couple have opened up more about their relationship in recent years, the parents have kept their family life out of the spotlight. While speaking to GQ, the La La Land star explained that he took a four-year absence from Hollywood because he wanted to spend as much time as I could with [his family]. Gosling revealed that he and Mendes dont have a nanny for their two young daughters, but when it comes to his parenting skills, he will just lean on Eva when he doesnt know what to do in a situation. She knows whats important, always. She just somehow knows. So if ever Im in my head about it, I just ask her, he explained. Elsewhere in the interview, Gosling clarified previous comments he made about the moment Mendes learned she was pregnant. While he maintained that he wasnt thinking about kids before they met, Gosling said, After I met Eva, I realised that I just didnt want to have kids without her. I was looking for her, you know? he added. When asked if he was aware that he was searching all his life for his current partner, Gosling replied: No. But it all makes sense now. Gosling stars as Ken in the highly-anticipated live-action Barbie film, directed by Greta Gerwig. Eva Mendes previously showed her support for the cast announcement last June when she posted a picture of Gosling dressed as Ken complete with bleach blonde hair, tanned skin, and six-pack abs on Instagram. So. F. Funny. So. F. Good. So F excited for you to see this she wrote alongside the photo. Meanwhile, Gosling revealed that Mendes has been very supportive of his role as Ken. He previously said on The One Show, Shes supporting my Kenergy. She started a hashtag, Thats My Ken, which meant a lot to me. Although Eva Mendes has remained supportive of Ryan Gosling throughout his career, the Hitch star revealed that she will not join her longtime partner on the red carpet at the Barbie movie premiere. Last April, she posted a throwback video of herself and Gosling from the set of their 2012 film, The Place Beyond the Pines. In an Instagram comment under Mendes post, one fan wrote: I really hope Barbie will get through the awards season just to see you with Ryan I know Im selfish and probably a dreamer but I will never stop [dreaming] about it. In response, Mendes thanked the fan for the cool comment but revealed that she wont be joining Gosling for the press tour of the film. Youre the best! What a cool comment, thank you. But we dont do those things together, she wrote back. Like these photos Ive been posting, Im only comfortable posting because its already out there. A large group of Sacramento Jewish leaders held a news conference outside City Hall Tuesday to reject antisemitic and racist comments made by a man at council meetings in recent weeks. This message, wherever and whenever it is allowed to fester and grow, only has one trajectory toward hatred, violence and finally death, said Barry Broad, president of the Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region, during the news conference Tuesday outside City Hall. A generation of Americans fought and died to eradicate it from the Earth. But it is back. What can we do? We need to stand up and say loudly and clearly, together in one voice no not in our town. Not in Sacramento. Not in America. Not anywhere, ever again. And we need to keep saying it until the evil is drowned out by the good. In addition to the federation, the news conference included leaders form the Jewish Community Relations Council; Sacramento Board of Rabbis; the Sacramento LGBT Community Center; the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sacramento; Sacramento Area Congregations Together; the Sacramento Central Labor Council and NAACP Sacramento. Council members Lisa Kaplan, who is Jewish, as well as Katie Valenzuela and Caity Maple were also present at the news conference. Mayor Darrell Steinberg, who is also Jewish, was leading a council committee meeting inside the chambers at the same time. After the news conference, council members hung black and white posters in front of their computers that read, Love Not Hate. Valenzuela worked with local artist Xico Gonzalez to have the signs designed and printed, she said. Steinberg encouraged people to have a different approach this time to Ryan Messano of Solano County, the person who has repeated antisemitic tropes. Previously, people blocked Messano from speaking and the meeting was paused. Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg sits with signs that read Love Not Hate during a City Council meeting on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Council members held up the signs when Ryan Messano, who had made antisemitic remarks during public comment at a previous meeting, spoke remotely. If there is hate speech spoken in this chamber, tonight or any night hold up these beautiful signs, Steinberg said at the start of the meeting, holding up one of the signs. Love not hate. Stand silently and we will stand silently with you. Our silence and our message will be much more powerful than our hate. Disrupting the meeting is exactly what they want. Please do not give it to them. Council rules state that as long as no rules are broken, each member of the public gets two minutes to speak. Rules include that speakers must not call out individual council members by name, and cannot say any swear words. It does not restrict hate speech. The city has previously banned a man from council chambers, but due to threatening comments. Messano did not show up to the meeting in person to give comments Tuesday, but he did call in. The city gave him two minutes to speak, while all members of the council stood and held their signs, with the exception of Councilman Sean Loloee who had left the room. Activists stood at the podium and held a banner that read NEVER AGAIN, while yelling over Messanos comments. Some members of the council said last week that you were unsafe, Messano said, referring to what happened the previous week. None of us five who attended had anything dangerous. You knew that because there were metal detectors in front of the City Council. Yet you ended the meeting earlyif you cannot handle criticism, resign. Jeffrey Erik Perrine, previously identified by The Sacramento Bee as a member of the far-right group the Proud Boys, also called in to the council meeting, prior to Messano, with disparaging comments about the homeless. These people are unhinged irresponsible people, Perrine said. During his comments, the council members all stood and held up their signs. Loloee sat and held his. Alan LoFaso of Sacramento holds his dog Pilar and a Love Not Hate sign as members of The Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region and community leaders hold a press conference on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, in response to antisemitic and racist public comments made a recent Sacramento City Council meetings. Messano posted on his website in response to the news conference: Let me be very clear, I am not associated with Proud Boys, I am not a Nazi, I do not support any authoritarian government, and I support the rights of all people, races, and all religions. I have been viciously lied about, slandered, and libeled by the Jewish media. It was a very different scene on Tuesday from last week, when Messano signed up to speak but as he approached the podium, a group of activists blocked him from speaking. Steinberg had left the room, and Vice Mayor Eric Guerra paused the meeting for about an hour. During that time, Perrines group clashed with a group of activists, including advocates against police brutality, who tried to get them to leave City Hall. The people were blocking Messano from speaking due to his comments earlier this month. Any white person in America is open game, but youre not allowed to criticize non-whites and youre not allowed to criticize other groups, Messano told the council May 9. He doubled down at the May 15 meeting with antisemitic comments. Antisemitism used to mean someone who hates all Jews, now it means someone who is hated by Jew bankers, Messano told the council May 15. Immediately following that remark, Steinberg, who is Jewish, yelled, See ya later pal ... we dont want to hear any more from you. Photo: Win McNamee (Getty Images) Sam Altman wants to hit the reset button. The OpenAI CEO threw a small tantrum last week when it became apparent that the European Union planned to move ahead with a proposed law that would institute a broad regulatory framework to protect against the more disruptive impacts of artificial intelligence. While such regulations seem not only welcome but also totally necessary, Altmans response was to threaten to pull his products out of Europe if the law went forward: If we can comply, we will, and if we cant, well cease operating, he said at a tech conference. Now, however, Altman seems to be singing a different tune. Apparently deciding that pitching a fit isnt the best way to get what you want, the AI executive not only abruptly backtracked on his previous comments (in a tweet, Altman said his company was excited to continue to operate [in Europe]...and of course have no plans to leave) but is claiming that, actually, he loves Europe. In fact, he loves it so much that he says OpenAI definitely needs a headquarters there. We really need an office in Europe, Altman told Politico late last week. We also just really want one. Read more In short: instead of ditching the continent, Altman appears to be moving in. Given recent events, that makes a whole lot of sense. Altman has been on a world-spanning roadtrip over the past few weeks, jetting from one country to the next in the hopes of getting governments to embrace a light-touch regulatory approach when it comes to ChatGPT and other generative AI. If you want to be a trailblazer in an AI revolution, it kinda helps to have everybody on the same page, right? As part of his schmooze campaign, Altman has claimed hes in favor of AI regulationsand has even suggested that the U.S. Congress create a regulatory agency dedicated to itbut its a conversation that the tech mogul clearly wants to keep on his terms. Europe isnt the only pitstop on the OpenAI CEOs charm tour, though it is a critically important one. Altman doesnt just want a European officehes actually obligated to set one up. Thats because, under Europes proposed AI regulations, companies that want to offer AI services in the EU will need to have a presence there, Politico writes. The country that Altman picks as OpenAIs European HQ will be the country that has direct oversight over how the company is regulated under the EUs pending legislation. Location scouting for the new office was also an opportunity to smooth things over with Europeans who may have been irked by Altmans recent dismissive rhetoric. During an event in Paris last week, the ChatGPT creator told a crowd that he wasnt serious when he said OpenAI might ditch Europe: We plan to comply. We want to offer services in Europe, he said. We just want to make sure were technically able to. And the conversations have been super-productive this week. At the same time that Altman is seeking to set up shop on the bloc, Reuters reports that the tech exec also has plans to meet with EU regulators next monthin the hopes of discussing how OpenAI will implement the EUs proposed regulations. Altman is scheduled to meet with Thierry Breton, Commissioner for the Internal Market of the European Union (economic competition agency), in San Francisco, where the two will discuss the regulations, as well as a voluntary pact that the EU is pushing on companies to adopt the regulations ahead of the new laws enactment. Because the regulations that the EU has proposed could take up to three years to go into effect, both the U.S. and the EU are also said to be discussing a potential code of conduct that would be voluntary and would encourage companies to steer clear of using AI in majorly disruptive ways. The meeting is a chance for both men to make nice after Altmans hissy fit made things awkward last week. Indeed, after the tech CEOs comments about pulling out of Europe, Breton notably commented that the proposed regulations were not up for debate. Lets be clear, our rules are put in place for the security and well-being of our citizens and this cannot be bargained, Breton previously told Reuters after Altman made a stink. Whats in the EUs AI Act? The European Union has been a trailblazer when it comes to regulating Big Tech. From its passage of the privacy-protecting GDPR to a recent legislative package regulating cryptocurrencies, the EU is miles ahead of the U.S. and other western democracies when it comes to instituting limitations on Silicon Valley. As such, it tracks that the EU has also issued a draft policy, dubbed simply the AI Act, that would put forth some of the first rules regulating artificial intelligence. As it stands now, the AI Act would institute a number of new restrictions on how AI technology could be wielded. Most pertinently for firms like OpenAI, the bill would potentially force them to disclose a full list of the copyrighted material that went into building generative models like the DALL-E image generator. For obvious reasons, this could cause bigand, one might imagine, potentially catastrophicimpacts for the business model of such companies. That is to say, if OpenAI is shown to have used thousands of artists paintings to inform the algorithm powering its image generator, what are the chances that those artists are going to want some sort of compensation? Altman can obviously smell the lawsuits from here and doesnt want to go that route: That sounds like a great thing to ask for, Altman recently told Politico, of the bills copyright stipulation. But due to the way these datasets are collected and the fact people have been copying data in different ways on different websites to say I have to legally warrant every piece of copyrighted content in there is not as easy as it sounds. More from Gizmodo Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. A South Carolina gas station owner accused of chasing a 14-year-old boy from his store and fatally shooting him in the back made his first court appearance Tuesday on a murder charge in the death. Rick Chow thought the boy had shoplifted four bottles of water Sunday night from his Xpress Mart Shell station in Columbia, authorities said. But Cyrus Carmack-Belton put the bottles back in the cooler and was off the stores property and running away when he was killed, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said. A gun was found near the teens body and Chows son, who also was involved in the chase, told his father that Carmack-Belton was armed after the youth fell as he ran, according to the sheriff. But Lott said there was no evidence the boy ever pointed the weapon at Chow or his son. ALSO READ: Charges filed against homeowner accused of shooting Black teen at his front door Chow, who had a concealed weapons permit, was charged after an autopsy showed the middle school student was shot in the back and deputies spoke to witnesses and reviewed surveillance and other video, Lott said. Self-defense law in South Carolina requires the shooter doesnt instigate the incident, believes he is in imminent danger and has no way to avoid that danger. You dont shoot somebody in the back that is not a threat to you, the sheriff said. Same standard the cops live by. Chow, 58, is being held in the Richland County jail. Neither he nor his lawyer talked about the shooting during the initial court appearance or in response to messages from The Associated Press. A bond hearing will be held later. Richland County Coroner Nadia Rutherford said there was no sign that Carmack-Belton was fighting with Chow before he ran out of the store and added there was no injury to his body other than an abrasion from falling and the gunshot wound. ALSO READ: Senseless: Teen girl shot at Charlotte park might not walk again, family says Both the sheriff and coroner asked for calm from the community. Social media posts incorrectly said the teen was kneeling or had his hands up when he was shot. Jail and coroner records have not listed the races of the shooter or the teen. Rutherford told a crowd at the gas station on Monday that the teen was shot while he was running and the bullet went through his back and into his heart. She told the crowd, which was yelling calls for justice, to listen to the facts. I was at the autopsy I looked at his body inside and outside. He had one shot to the back which is why Mr. Chow is being charged with murder, the coroner told the crowd. Deputies have been called to Chows store numerous times in the last several years for shoplifting complaints and sometimes they turned into shoving or scuffling, but Lott said his officers determined Chow was defending himself and he was never charged. Sundays shooting was not justified, the sheriff said. Even if he had shoplifted four bottles of water, which he had taken out of the cooler and then put back even if he had done that, thats not something you should shoot anybody over, much less a 14-year-old, Lott said. After Mondays peaceful protest, Chows store was broken into after dark with shattered windows and merchandise pulled off shelves and strewn across the floor, Lott said. When deputies arrived, a large group was inside stealing items, the sheriff said, adding he plans to charge those involved. What does stealing a case of beer have to do with a 14-year-old being shot? Lott said, calling the theft looting. ALSO READ: Second suspect charged in drive-by shooting that killed teen, CMPD records say Deputies are now watching over the property, the sheriff said. The taxpayers are paying for us to guard that store because a limited number of individuals who want to do something like that instead of going out there in memory of this 14-year-old boy, Lott said. The entire gas station was behind yellow crime scene tape Tuesday morning. Dozens of crushed water bottles littered the parking lot. Graffiti, most of it Cyrus or 14 covered the walls. A sign taped to the door read Water or Life? Which means more? Another read Close it down! Occasionally, a car would park for its occupants to take photos, or someone would walk down the sidewalk taking cellphone video. The day before, the coroner stood near the gas pumps, asking the dozens gathered there to not turn to violence to help the grief of the family of Carmack-Belton, who was a student at a nearby middle school. Please be peaceful, Rutherford said. This family does not need any more trauma related to his death. (WATCH BELOW: $3M settlement reached in lawsuit over Black mans death in NC) SC killer Alex Murdaugh may plead guilty to federal financial crimes, his lawyer says A lawyer for convicted double-murderer Alex Murdaugh signaled Wednesday that his client will likely plead guilty to a sweeping series of federal financial crimes. Murdaugh, 55, entered a formal plea of not guilty Wednesday in a federal arraignment hearing in Charleston But his lawyer Jim Griffin told the Magistrate Judge Molly Cherry that he intends to change his plea of not guilty at an unspecified date in the future. Left undetermined was how many counts of a 22-count federal indictment Murdaugh would plead guilty to. Murdaugh indictment last week includes his highly-publicized alleged theft of $4.3 million from his dead housekeepers estate, his alleged unlawful collusion with former Hampton banker Russell Laffitte and his alleged serial embezzlements of millions of dollars belonging to former clients. In all, the 28-page federal indictment alleges Murdaugh, a former lawyer, stole some $7 million from 2011 to 2021 from former clients and others. Wednesday was Murdaughs first appearance in a South Carolina public courtroom since March 3, when state Judge Clifton Newman sentenced him to two consecutive life sentences for the murders of his wife, Maggie, and his son, Paul, after a roughly six-week trial. Unlike that court event, viewed by thousands of people on national television, Wednesdays appearance was confined to a small courtroom audience of lawyers, law enforcement officers and reporters. Cameras are not allowed in federal court. Murdaugh was dressed in an orange prison jump suit and his head was shaved. Earlier Wednesday, he was transported from an undisclosed state prison where he is being held in protective custody, away from other inmates, to the downtown Charleston federal courtroom at 85 Broad St. This is a developing story. Check back for updates. The Kremlin has apparently taken notice of U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham, and recent remarks he made while in Ukraine. On Monday, Russia issued an arrest warrant for South Carolinas senior senator over his spliced comments surrounding the war in Ukraine. In an edited video released by the office of Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Graham can be heard saying, the Russians are dying. ... The greatest money weve (the U.S.) ever spent. A longer version of the video shows Grahams comments were not linked together and, therefore, were out of context, according to NBC News. The Kremlin, nevertheless, took noticeable offense, according to media reports, and opened a criminal investigation into Grahams remarks, which ultimately led to his arrest warrant. Though Russias interior ministry put Graham on the wanted list, it did not specify which specific crimes the senator had committed, BBC News reported. Graham, seemingly unfazed by the move, took to Twitter after learning he was a wanted man in Russia. To know that my commitment to Ukraine has drawn the ire of Putins regime brings me immense joy, Graham tweeted last week. I will continue to stand with and for Ukraines freedom until every Russian soldier is expelled from Ukrainian territory. To know that my commitment to Ukraine has drawn the ire of Putins regime brings me immense joy. I will continue to stand with and for Ukraines freedom until every Russian soldier is expelled from Ukrainian territory. Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) May 29, 2023 Continuing to make light of his wanted status in Russia, Graham later tweeted that hes found a Senate colleague whos a lawyer and willing to represent him. Good news: While I dont expect to be tried by Russia anytime soon, I found the services of a great lawyer who works cheap, Graham tweeted. Sen. (Richard) Blumenthal, my good friend from Connecticut who has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine, has offered to be my lawyer. Bad news: like every other dissident voice, I dont like my chances of getting a fair trial. Stay tuned. SC youth pastor arrested, fired for video recording woman while she showered, officials say A youth pastor at a Baptist church in Greenville County has been accused of video recording a woman while she showered and charged with voyeurism. Daniel Kellan Mayfield, 35, was fired from his job at Gowensville First Baptist Church after his arrest May 27, church officials confirmed. He was employed there for six or seven years. The Greenwood County Sheriffs Office said they received a call from a woman who said she saw a man standing in the backyard of a Greenwood County home. She and her sister confronted the man, who told them he took a video of one of them while she was showering. They could see from inside that he was taking a video with his phone and they video recorded him. First Baptist Gowensville is located in Greenville County and Mayfield lives in Boiling Springs in Spartanburg County. Mayfield was released on a $10,000 bond, a Greenwood County Detention Center official said. Mayfields Linked In page says he previously worked as an event coordinator with Compassion International, missions director at Student Life in Birmingham, Alabama and ministry associate at Child Evangelism Fellowship in Roebuck. He received a bachelors degree from North Greenville University in 2010, where he majored in print media. A 54-year-old school bus driver is accused of duct-taping a 10-year-old boy to his seat to restrain him, Pennsylvania officials say. The driver is facing charges of unlawful restraint, false imprisonment, endangering the welfare of a child, and assault, according to a May 30 news release from the Delaware County District Attorneys Office. Officers with the Upper Darby Police Department began investigating the driver on March 8, after receiving a report that a student at Hillcrest Elementary School was assaulted by a bus driver, the release said. Investigators reviewed video captured by cameras on the bus, which showed the driver taping the boys ankles and chest, then cutting off the tape once they arrived at school, the release said, adding that the boy was never seen trying to get out of his seat. Using duct tape on a child who was already fully restrained in the vehicles harness was not only inexcusable, it was also dangerous, Jack Stollsteimer, district attorney, said in the release. Had an accident occurred, this child would have been unable to free himself from the tape. There is simply no excuse for this conduct, which is why these charges have been filed. The drivers attorney, Art Donato, says his client was well-intentioned. All of the crimes that she was charged with require specific criminal intent, and theres no evidence that she had any criminal intent, Donato told McClatchy News. Her intention was merely to protect the child and to protect other children from the child. In retrospect you can look at it and say, Well, there may have been a better way to accomplish that, but that doesnt mean her conduct was in any way criminal. Its unclear if the driver has been fired from the Upper Darby School District, but she is no longer driving buses at this time, a spokesperson for the district told McClatchy News in an email. We are cooperating with the local authorities in the investigation of this incident, the spokesperson said. Upper Darby Township is roughly seven miles west of downtown Philadelphia. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out on the job Wednesday. The lunchtime walkout in front of the Amazon Spheres on Seventh Avenue began at noon. The Post cited internal messages shared by employees over Slack and email, which listed Amazons return-to-office mandate, climate commitments, and recent layoffs among the reasons for the walkout. One employee based out of Los Angeles quoted by the Washington Post went so far as to say that morale feels like its at an all-time low. A news release from Amazon Employees for Climate Justice cited a lack of trust in company leaderships decision-making as one of the reasons for the demonstration. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. Hundreds of Amazon workers in Seattle walked out over a return-to-office mandate, layoffs, climate commitments and other issues. The latest numbers from organizers show more than 1,900 workers worldwide have pledged to walk out, including 913 in Seattle. Organizers said the walkout is focused in Seattle because its the place most symbolically Amazon. Amazon announced plans to lay off 9,000 workers in late March, not long over the company cut over 18,000 jobs. Layoffs extended to a variety of teams, including Amazon Web Services, PXT Solutions, advertising, and Twitch. However, given the uncertain economy in which we reside, and the uncertainty that exists in the near future, we have chosen to be more streamlined in our costs and headcount, CEO Andy Jassy said in late March. Regarding the planned walkout, a company spokesperson said, We respect our employees rights to express their opinions. A news release from Amazon Employees for Climate Justice said the walkout was over a lack of trust in company leaderships decision making, particularly around addressing the companys climate impact and the rollout of a return to work mandate. 'Selling Sunset' realtors don't have a wardrobe budget and pay for their glam out of pocket, cast member says "Selling Sunset" star Chelsea Lazkani at the 2022 People's Choice Awards. Amy Sussman/Staff/Getty Images The cast of "Selling Sunset" are known for wearing extravagant outfits on the show. From sparkles and cutouts to Diesel's viral belt skirt, season 6 was the most glamorous yet. But according to cast member Chelsea Lazkani, the realtors are paying for all of it out of pocket. If the stars of "Selling Sunset" want to look glamorous, they have to do it on their own dime, a cast member has shared. In a recent TikTok, Chelsea Lazkani, who joined the cast in season five, answered questions on what she says is one of the most popular topics surrounding the Netflix reality television show: wardrobe. The stars of "Selling Sunset" are known for wearing extravagant outfits to their property showings, business meetings, and pretty much any kind of work event day or night. Season six saw some of the most lavish outfits to date, including Lazkani wearing the infamous Diesel micro-miniskirt, made from brown leather and stamped with the brand's monogram. The skirt currently retails at 795, or around $982. But according to Lazkani in her TikTok, which has been viewed 2.1 million times as of Wednesday, every outfit worn by the cast is paid for and styled by themselves. "Do we get a wardrobe budget? Do we have stylists? Does anyone pay for our clothes? Do we get glam for filming? We get this question a lot," Lazkani starts the clip saying. "We do not get a wardrobe or glam budget." "This is very standard in reality TV," she added. "This is reality TV, you come as you please. On 'Selling Sunset,' we definitely turn up for ya'll. We turn it up, we are definitely glam girls, we love to be in glam, we love to bring the fashion." Lazkami says that for the most part, the cast does "get glam for filming, presumably by a hired professional. "It is out of our own pocket. No wardrobe budget, no one pays for our glam, nobody pays for our outfits," Lazkani said. Newcomer Bre Tiesi on "Selling Sunset." Netflix She went on to add that some of the realtors do work with a personal stylist to come up with looks for scenes in the show, but said that she is not one of them. "That's why if you see me looking crazy, it's my fault and my fault only," she said. Lazkami's comments come as Vice's Helen Meriel Thomas shared in a TikTok that she interviewed Sammie M, who styles Mary Fitzgerald and Amanza Smith on "Selling Sunset," who said they know some cast members spend between $5,000 to $10,000 on looks for the show. Thomas said the stylist told her the cast feels the pressure of social media to deliver memorable outfits and are "in competition" with one another, leading to the wild fashion on season six. Netflix representatives for "Selling Sunset" did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment. Read the original article on Insider Jason Oppenheim has announced that he and his girlfriend of 10 months, Marie-Lou Nurk, have broken up. The "Selling Sunset" star broke the news in his Instagram story and shared the following message with his fans. While we still love and care about each other very much the distance between us has proven to be too great a challenge to overcome, the reality star wrote over a photo of him and Nurk looking off into the distance at a sunset. The 46-year-old said there's no bad blood between him and his 25-year-old ex. We remain close friends and continue to talk often and support each other and we want the very best for one another. We thank everyone for their support throughout our relationship, he wrote. Nurk shared an identical message on her own Instagram page. The former couple shared a joint announcement. (@jasonoppenheim via Instagram) The real estate moguls budding relationship with the model was portrayed onscreen in the latest season of his Netflix reality series and many of the agents at the Oppenheim Group teased him for dating a younger woman. Earlier this month, Oppenheim spoke to TODAY.com about his long-distance relationship with Nurk, whose Instagram profile says she is based in both Paris and Los Angeles. "(Mary-Lou) and I just got the phone like 30 seconds ago. Were trying to figure out how to see each other in a couple of weeks, because its already been a couple of weeks. We talk every day and things are still going great, but obviously, its hard being apart. I think we have two or three trips planned for over the summer. Its a lot of flying. But were doing well," he said at the time. When asked how they made the long-distance relationship work, Oppenheim cited communication as the key. "I think we talk a lot, but I dont know. Its new for me. So I dont know if I figured it all out yet. But I think were very relaxed about it. We encourage each other to be happy and have fun and I dont think we take things too seriously. We just communicate a lot," he said. When asked where he saw his relationship with Nurk going, the reality star offered the following response. "Neither of us put any pressure on the relationship. Right (now) were just trying to feel our way through the long-distance aspect. Were very much in love. I think were just trying to be more relaxed about it," he said. Oppenheim and Nurk first met in July 2022 while vacationing in Greece and made their red carpet debut in August 2022. They returned to Greece together in September 2022 and moved in together in February 2023. This article was originally published on TODAY.com A Republican-led effort to overturn President Joe Bidens student debt relief plan narrowly cleared a key procedural hurdle in the Senate on Wednesday as several moderate Democrats broke with the White House and backed the measure. On a 51-46 vote, the Senate advanced legislation that would repeal Bidens debt cancellation program and nullify the pause on monthly payments and interest. Vote breakdown: A handful of moderate Senate Democrats joined with Republicans to move forward on the rebuke of Bidens signature effort to provide student loan forgiveness to tens of millions of Americans. Democratic Sens. Joe Manchin (W.Va.) and Jon Tester (Mont.) as well as independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (Ariz.) voted in favor of the procedural motion to start debate on the measure. Dem rebuke: Republicans have nearly uniformly opposed mass student loan forgiveness since Biden last August unveiled his plan to cancel up to $20,000 of debt per borrower. But the Senate vote on Wednesday was the first formal pushback from centrist Democrats who have previously expressed unease with Bidens effort to forgive large swaths of student debt. Key context: The House passed the resolution on a nearly party-line vote last week with the support of most Republicans and a pair of Democratic lawmakers. Under the Congressional Review Act, the fast-track procedure that lawmakers are using to try to stop the student debt relief, the Senate could pass the measure later this week on a simple majority vote. But the White House has promised that Biden would veto the bill if Congress were to pass it. The bill hasnt attracted enough support in either the House or Senate to comprise the two-thirds majority that would be needed to override a presidential veto. Debt deal: The Senate is taking up the measure as Congress weighs a debt ceiling agreement that would also solidify the end of the pause on federal student loan payments and interest thats been in place since March 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic. The bill, which the House is expected to take up later on Wednesday, would require the Biden administration to resume collecting student loans and charging interest after Aug. 30. White House officials fended off Republican efforts to include in the deal a full repeal of Bidens student debt cancellation plan, to the chagrin of many conservative lawmakers. Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young, a lead negotiator, said on Tuesday that Bidens loan forgiveness was saved in the final deal. "This bill does end the payment pause, but very close to the timeframe we were going to end it, she said. The Biden administration previously said it would keep the payment pause until the end of August at the latest. Whats next: A final vote on the Congressional Review Act resolution in the Senate is set for Thursday. The plan is on hold while the Supreme Court deliberates over legal challenges brought by Republican attorneys general and a conservative group. The justices in the coming weeks are expected to issue a ruling on whether the plan can proceed. Adji Sarr, 23, says opposition leader Ousmane Sonko raped her and made death threats A rape case that has pitched a 23-year-old woman against Senegal's most prominent opposition leader has dismayed feminists in the country, fearing their cause has suffered an enduring blow. After a trial marked by politicisation and salacious headlines, the West African state is bracing for potential violence on Thursday when the verdict is expected to be announced. The case revolves around Ousmane Sonko, a firebrand politician who has drawn a huge following among young people with attacks on Senegal's elite. The 48-year-old is accused of raping beauty salon employee Adji Sarr and issuing death threats against her. He denies the allegations and in the run-up to Thursday's hearing called on the public to protest en masse. Some feminists say the two-year-old case has dodged a rare chance to advance the rights of victims of sexual violence. But others worry it marks a step backward in the long struggle for empowerment. "This trial is a huge setback that will leave its mark on the history of women's rights," said Aminata Libain Mbengue of the Feminists' Network of Senegal. - Threats - "There has been no debate on consent and sexual violence -- the political aspect immediately dominated." Sonko says the case is part of a plot by President Macky Sall to scuttle his ambitions for the 2024 elections. His critics call him a rabble-rouser who is seeking to evade justice. When Sonko was charged in 2021, riots and looting erupted that left a dozen people dead. Sarr was forced into hiding after facing relentless threats and insults. Now, she only leaves her home under police escort. "Whatever the verdict, Adji Sarr has already been given life imprisonment -- she can no longer live in Senegal, is threatened with death and has lost all freedom," Mbengue said. Activists say the trial has left the rights of women and victims of sexual violence either drowned out as an issue or sidelined. One reason is that campaigners have been threatened by Sonko supporters, but the cause has also failed to gain much help from Sarr herself, they say. Her appearance has been widely attacked as vulgar and her testimony as crude, prompting headlines of "X-rated" and "like a porn movie" in this conservative Muslim country. - 'Theatre' - "From the very beginning, my problem has been the girl's attitude -- rape is being trivialised," said Amy Wane, a 27-year-old journalist. "Rape is a very painful ordeal -- women who are victims are ashamed and hide their faces. "Adji Sarr, on the other hand, flaunts herself on social networks, comes to court in a tight red dress, and puts forward no proof (of rape) whatsoever". Nafissa Fall, 27, said: "These days, when you want to insult a woman, you say you hope she has a child like Adji Sarr -- the image of women has taken a hit." But Die Maty Fall, another journalist, said Sarr had "done well to put into words what she has been through." "Political figures are going to have to be more careful to ensure that what they say in public is consistent with their attitude in private," she said. Sociologist Rosalie Aduayi Diop, a specialist in sexual violence, described the trial as "theatre." It showed the limits of the justice system, with "untruths from all sides," and increased mistrust of the institutions, she said. - 'Culture of silence' - "Beyond the issue of rape, the big regret is the way that a woman was instrumentalised for political ends," she said. Diop acknowledged some advances for Senegalese women in recent years. They are better represented in politics since a gender quota was passed for parliament, and rape was criminalised in 2020. But in Senegal, rape remains a taboo. Most victims are unaware of the law and the "culture of silence" persists, according to Diop. "We always try to work things out within the family", she said, both to preserve family ties and to avoid stigmatising victims. The women interviewed by AFP said Sarr's testimony on the stand failed to dispel all doubts about the allegations against Sonko. But they and others were united in their condemnation of Sonko's language, saying it normalised sexual violence and denigrated his accuser. "If I wanted to rape a woman, I wouldn't choose a brain-damaged monkey," he said. "Using such a description of a Senegalese woman is degrading and the worst kind of insult at a time when black people all over the world are fighting against prejudice and racist violence," the Feminists' Network said. amt/prc/ri/jm Seniors at an affordable housing complex say they cant afford to live there anymore. They spoke with Channel 9 about their struggle to find a new, affordable place to call home. Deborah Bost believes the Renaissance at Antiquity senior apartments in Cornelius check many boxes. They have great amenities and spacious units. She only has one complaint. READ MORE: North Carolina Affordable Housing Resources Its gone up every year, she said. They told me it would never go up more than 5% until this year. Then it went up 35%. Pretty much everyone here is going to have to move because we just dont have it. And theyre like me -- where are they going to go? she asked. Her neighbor Debra Baron told Channel 9s Erika Jackson shes bracing for a 20% increase in her monthly rent. Social security pays my rent, thats for sure, Baron said. Bost and Baron told Jackson theyre on fixed incomes. The Social Security Administration bumped up their social security payments by 8.7% this year to keep up with the cost of living. However, numbers from real estate blog Apartment List show rent went up by an average of 33% in Charlottes suburban cities, like Cornelius, since the start of the pandemic. Can anything be done? Jackson brought their concerns to Action 9 investigator Jason Stoogenke. ALSO READ: Its simple living: Homeowners downsizing for solution to affordable housing crisis At the end of the day, the landlord can really do what they want to do, he said. Stoogenke said renters dont have much wiggle room since theres no rent cap in North Carolina. He has this advice for neighbors. You can try negotiating with your landlord. I believe in strength in numbers, Stoogenke said. If you can negotiate with some of your neighbors, get a group together, and approach -- I dont want to say confront, but approach -- together. Maybe your landlord will be a little more receptive. Bost and her neighbors wrote the governor, state representatives, and the attorney general asking for help. She hopes someone will take action. There needs to be a law to protect seniors to keep this from happening, she said. Jackson reached out to the Renaissance at Antiquity apartments for comment several times. Shes still waiting to hear back. (WATCH BELOW: Organization works to bring affordable housing to the Concord area) Investigative journalists have documented that MP Bohdan Torokhtii is driving a Mercedes-Benz EQS purchased in March 2023 and found evidence of his trips abroad during wartime. Source: an investigation by Bihus.Info Details: According to a previous investigation by Bihus.Info, Bohdan Torokhtii, a member of the Servant of the People faction, was one of the visitors to the office of businessman Illia Pavliuk, the informal handler of a group of MPs. This group is known for organising votes in favour of various financial and industrial groups, most often in the interests of oligarch Rinat Akhmetov. Torokhtii voted in coordination with the entire group. Torokhtii's family have managed to replace their car three times since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion. All the cars were purchased in the name of Torokhtii's wife, Alina Levchenko. The daughter of football coach Vitalii Levchenko, she has been an assistant to MP Serhii Kaplin and an adviser to former Infrastructure Minister Volodymyr Omelian. In July 2022, Alina Levchenko sold her Range Rover Sport for about US$76,000, and in the same month, she became the owner of a 2020 Mercedes-Benz G400. These SUVs cost at least US$158,800 on the used-car market. In December 2022, Levchenko replaced her Mercedes with a new Range Rover. According to Torokhtii, the couple pre-ordered the car in 2021, and the SUV was delivered late because of the full-scale war. Cars similar to Levchenko's Range Rover currently sell for US$185,000. In March 2023, the Range Rover was "exchanged" for a 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 electric car. Judging by the car's two-tone colour, this is a special edition of the EQS 580 Edition One. A new one can be found on sale for US$197,851, and in March, the EQS 580 Edition One was sold for US$185,000. The journalists have evidence of Torokhtii himself using Levchenkos car. Shortly before the full-scale invasion, Torokhtii was among the initiators of draft law No. 7055. It provided for a ban on MPs leaving the country, except when directed to by the president to exercise their powers. However, this legislative ban on MPs was never adopted. On 23 April 2022, Bohdan Torokhtii attempted to leave the country through the Porubne border point, which is on the border with Romania. On that occasion the border guards did not let him out of the country. Bihus.Info learned about this from the court register: Torokhtii filed an appeal against the travel ban decision, and the issue was settled out of court. The journalists were able to identify one of Torokhtii's trips abroad from his wife's social media posts. Torokhtii and Levchenko were in Bulgaria in August 2022, shortly before their second wedding anniversary. Bihus.Info found this out thanks to several photographs of Levchenko taken in the Bulgarian town of Elenite. Despite the fact that Levchenko did not use geolocation tags, the journalists identified the place portrayed in the photo thanks to a metal grille, a napkin and a window; this appeared to be the Fish Restaurant Levant Beach, located on the Black Sea coast in Elenite. On 14 August 2022, Levchenko posted a photo of herself in the restaurant. A few days later, on 20 August, their wedding anniversary, she posted a photo of herself with Torokhtii, taken in the same place, wearing the same clothes, with the same makeup and jewellery, and obviously on the same day as the previous photo. Overall, during the summer of 2022 Levchenko posted a lot of photos from Bulgaria, confirming that she was in that country at the time. And the joint photo with Torokhtii proves that he was also in Bulgaria in August 2022. The MP confirmed to reporters that he had travelled abroad after the full-scale invasion for family reasons: to visit his children, who had left Ukraine, and his wife. When it came to his stay in Bulgaria, Torokhtii replied that he did not remember whether he had been there in August 2022 or his likely purpose in staying there. He asked the journalists to send him their questions in writing and give him time to prepare an answer. Half an hour after receiving the questions, Torokhtii sent the journalist a screenshot revealing the date of the photo with Levchenko in the Fish Restaurant Levant Beach to be 27 September 2021. This was an attempt to imply that the photo had not been taken in 2022. The journalists noted, however, that users of Apple devices can change the date of a photograph, bypassing the recording of the change of metadata. Furthermore, the journalists went on to analyse Alina Levchenko's posts for September 2021; they indicate that she and Torokhtii were in Kyiv at that time. On 27 September, Levchenko posted a photo from her apartment in Kyiv and a joint photo with Torokhtii from Veranda on the Dnieper, a restaurant in the capital. Levchenko also posted photos from Kyiv on the days before and after. And overall, during September 2021, she did not post a single photo or video from Bulgaria (where, according to the MPs current story, she was at that time). The fact that the joint photo of Levchenko and Torokhtii from Bulgaria was not taken in 2021, as the parliamentarian had tried to convince Bihus.Info, is also confirmed by the exterior of the restaurant in the photo. It matches the exterior of summer 2022, not September 2021. On 28 August 2022, Torokhtiis wife posted a series of photos taken in front of the facade of the Fish Restaurant Levant Beach. Her dress, makeup and accessories are identical to those in which she was photographed with Torokhtii. On one of the elements of the facade, you can see two dark markings, as well as a crack to the right of them which divides into two closer to the bottom. The journalists analysed photos taken in this restaurant by other Instagram users at different times. In August 2021, neither of the two marks near the crack had appeared yet. In June 2022, photos of the restaurant showed only one mark. Two marks identical to those in Alina Levchenkos photo were recorded for the first time in July 2022. The journalists are therefore convinced that Bohhan Torokhtii tried to mislead them and forged metadata in his photos from Bulgaria, where he actually was with his wife in August 2022. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! PORT ST. LUCIE As police released more details in a recent murder-suicide case, a teacher said to have been killed in the incident was remembered as a loyal friend who loved children. Amanda Hicks also was a Florida girl, who loved anything involving the water, said Luciana Haskas, 28, of Port St. Lucie. She inspired me to do things and try things I had never done, said Haskas, who said she was close with Hicks. Amanda Hicks of Port St. Lucie Hicks was the victim of a homicide in Port St. Lucie last weekend, according to the Martin County School District. She was a reading teacher at Dr. David L. Anderson Middle School in Stuart since 2019, according to Jennifer DeShazo, director of public information and community relations with the Martin County School District. Hicks was a summer reporting intern at TCPalm in 2016 while a journalism student at Florida Atlantic University. Port St. Lucie police have stated that at 11:45 a.m. May 27 they went to the 5500 block of Northwest East Torino Parkway for a welfare check. Investigators heard an infant inside crying, and forced their way in after noticing through a sliding door what appeared to be dead people on the floor. 'Ahe was my whole world': Friends, family remember Kaitlyn Kohler, dead after being struck by sheriff's vehicle They determined a 25-year-old man stabbed his 26-year-old fiancee then shot himself. Police declined to identify those who died, citing Marsys Law. Introduced in memory of a young woman murdered by her ex-boyfriend, Marsys Law was created to offer crime victims a slate of rights, including protecting them and their families from harassment by their attackers. Some law enforcement officials have interpreted the statute as applying to any victim, as well as to law enforcement officers being entitled to privacy and having their identity protected. Kristy Chase, a fellow reading teacher at Anderson middle school situated off Southeast Cove Road, described Hicks as a dedicated employee and loyal friend. She was always the first to sign up to help, especially if it was something for the students, Chase stated. She loved art; she has a beautiful mural in the sixth grade building that will continue to be a tribute to her. Mural painted by Amanda Hicks at Dr. David L. Anderson Middle School Police said it appears the 25-year-old man tried to call a family member repeatedly about 11:50 p.m. May 26. Nearby video surveillance about 12:47 a.m. detected a gunshot. A family member of the man couldnt reach him, which prompted a welfare check. New $24.7 million facility: Estimated 40,000-square-foot Port St. Lucie Police training facility to be built Investigators determined the 10-month-old had been left in her crib about 11 hours before officers forced their way inside. The unharmed infant is now with a family member, according to police. We were her chosen family at (Anderson middle school) and we celebrated her beginning her own with the birth of her daughter, Chase stated. For her young age, she faced so much, but it never made her heart hard. She deserved a long and beautiful life. Efforts this week to reach family members of Hicks for comment were unsuccessful. Haskas said she met Hicks in third grade, attending Savanna Ridge Elementary School off Lennard Road in Port St. Lucie. Haskas said she considered Hicks like her sister. She said Hicks and the man who shot her were the parents of the infant found by police crying in the apartment. She said they drifted apart but reconnected with the emergence of Myspace. Myspace was the most popular social network from 2005 to 2008, according to information on Britannica.com. And then we just never left each other's side since, Haskas said. She just brought so much love and joy. Will Greenlee is a breaking news reporter for TCPalm. Follow Will on Twitter @OffTheBeatTweet or reach him by phone at 772-267-7926. E-mail him at will.greenlee@tcpalm.com This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Homicide victim Amanda Hicks, a teacher in Stuart, remembered Customers leave flowers and other gifts on the outdoor patio at Tacos Delta in Silver Lake to honor the restaurant's co-founder Maria Esther Valdivia, who died May 25 after being hit by a car on May 22. (Nathan Solis / Los Angeles Times) Maria Esther Valdivia, one of L.A.s taco matriarchs, died last week due to injuries sustained after she was hit by a car while using a crosswalk. The co-founder of Silver Lake institution Tacos Delta was 74. In the days since Valdivia's death, generations of fans have stopped by to support the restaurant, which has seemed to endure the whims of a neighborhood more commonly associated with gentrification and constant change. Longtime customers on Tuesday gathered to reminisce about a familiar face described as infinitely generous and loving. "She was like a mother figure, like a grandmother who just loved," said one customer, Jose Sanchez, near a growing memorial of flowers and keepsakes on the taqueria's outoor patio. "It's so unfair what happened." On May 22, Valdivia was crossing Scott Avenue at Glendale Boulevard in Echo Park, within the bounds of a crosswalk, at roughly 1:45 p.m. when she was struck by a 1999 Mercedes-Benz E320, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. The driver did not display any impairment, exited the vehicle and attempted to help Valdivia, police said. Valdivia was transported to a hospital but died due to her injuries on May 25. Sergio and Maria Esther Valdivia made chilaquiles, a fan favorite, at Tacos Delta since 1981. (Steve Lopez / Los Angeles Times) The native of Jalisco, Mexico, co-founded the taco stand with her mother-in-law and her husband in 1981. Service was established at a window, where diners could grab their food to-go or sit on a covered patio for an array of tacos, breakfast burritos, long-simmered soups, pitch-perfect chilaquiles and combination plates. In the decades that followed, the family weathered shifts in the neighborhood demographics, as real estate prices soared in Silver Lake and neighboring Echo Park, and also through the recent pandemic, which saw many restaurants shutter. News of Valvidia's death spread throughout the weekend in the Silver Lake community. On Tuesday, guests arrived to mourn, bring flowers and candles, cry and remember Valdivia with stories that even her own family was unaware of. Carla Barboza called herself a regular at the colorfully painted taqueria and described the place as a neighborhood institution. "It's heartbreaking to hear that she died," Barboza said. "They are such a lovely family. And they survived all the changes that have happened in the neighborhood." Family continues working All four of Valdivia's children were at work at the taqueria on Tuesday. Valdivia's sons, Sergio Jr. and Osvaldo Valdivia, continued to take orders out of the window facing Sunset Boulevard. Husband Sergio Valdivia also showed up to work in his wife's honor. "We feel closer to her here," said daughter Elizabeth Rodriguez. According to her family, Valdivia gave to charitable organizations and instilled in them an ethos of compassion, respect and aid without doubting or questioning why. Over the years, Valdivia gave out food and money to homeless people. We're learning so much about her giving nature from people who are paying their respects, said daughter Irma Gonzalez. That's our second family all our customers are our family and they've been supporting us through this." "She would never say no to the beach," said Elizabeth Rodriguez of her mother Maria Esther Valdivia. Above, a makeshift memorial at Tacos Delta. (Nathan Solis / Los Angeles Times) "She grew up poor. She knew what it meant to go to sleep hungry," said daughter Elizabeth Rodriguez. "Her favorite saying was, 'When I die I'm not taking anything with me,'" Gonzalez said. "That's why she was so giving, always making sure that people could take away something from their time here." Sanchez, the customer, drove with George Enciso from Long Beach to the taqueria with a bouquet of flowers. The couple used to live around the corner from the restaurant and always found Valdivia working with a smile. They were often greeted with a hug from the matronly owner. "It's hard to believe she's gone," Enciso said. They talked with her about Puerto Vallarta and going to the beach. Valdivia was planning to take a trip to her hometown in Jalisco, Mexico, her daughters said, and then visit Puerto Vallarta. Their mother was set to fly on the day she passed; her packed bags sat ready in the house. "She would never say no to the beach," Rodriguez said. Maria Esther Valdivia is survived by her husband, four children, 14 grandchildren and one great-grandson. Det. Calvin Dehesa of the LAPD said the department has video footage of the accident from a neighboring business. As is customary in fatal traffic accidents, L.A. County District Atty. George Gascon will review the case to determine negligence and whether to refer it to the city attorney. Dehesa called the accident a really sad, sad case, and unfortunate. The entire family was still in shock, said daughter Gonzalez, but vowed to continued to operate the taqueria together. Even though Valdivia was retired, she continued to come to work, always on the bus and always walking the rest of the way. "She could not stay at home," Sergio Valdivia said Tuesday. "She would have gone crazy." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Customers leave flowers and other gifts on the outdoor patio at Tacos Delta in Silver Lake to honor the restaurant's founder Maria Esther Valdivia, who died May 25 after being hit by a car on May 22. (Nathan Solis / Los Angeles Times) Maria Esther Valdivia, one of L.A.s taco matriarchs, died last week due to injuries sustained after she was hit by a car while using a crosswalk. The co-founder of Silver Lake institution Tacos Delta was 74. In the days since Valdivia's death, generations of fans have stopped by to support the restaurant, which has seemed to endure the whims of a neighborhood more commonly associated with gentrification and constant change. Longtime customers on Tuesday gathered to reminisce about a familiar face described as infinitely generous and loving. "She was like a mother figure, like a grandmother who just loved," said one customer, Jose Sanchez, near a growing memorial of flowers and keepsakes on the taqueria's outoor patio. "It's so unfair what happened." On May 22, Valdivia was crossing Scott Avenue at Glendale Boulevard in Echo Park, within the bounds of a crosswalk, at roughly 1:45 p.m. when she was struck by a 1999 Mercedes-Benz E320, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. The driver did not display any impairment, exited the vehicle and attempted to help Valdivia, police said. Valdivia was transported to a hospital but died due to her injuries on May 25. Sergio and Maria Esther Valdivia made chilaquiles, a fan favorite, at Tacos Delta since 1981. (Steve Lopez / Los Angeles Times) The native of Jalisco, Mexico, co-founded the taco stand with her mother-in-law and her husband in 1981. Service was established at a window, where diners could grab their food to-go or sit on a covered patio for an array of tacos, breakfast burritos, long-simmered soups, pitch-perfect chilaquiles and combination plates. In the decades that followed, the family weathered shifts in the neighborhood demographics, as real estate prices soared in Silver Lake and neighboring Echo Park, and also through the recent pandemic, which saw many restaurants shutter. News of Valvidia's death spread throughout the weekend in the Silver Lake community. On Tuesday, guests arrived to mourn, bring flowers and candles, cry and remember Valdivia with stories that even her own family was unaware of. Carla Barboza called herself a regular at the colorfully painted taqueria and described the place as a neighborhood institution. "It's heartbreaking to hear that she died," Barboza said. "They are such a lovely family. And they survived all the changes that have happened in the neighborhood." Family continues working All four of Valdivia's children were at work at the taqueria on Tuesday. Valdivia's sons, Sergio Jr. and Osvaldo Valdivia, continued to take orders out of the window facing Sunset Boulevard. Husband Sergio Valdivia also showed up to work in his wife's honor. "We feel closer to her here," said daughter Elizabeth Rodriguez. According to her family, Valdivia gave to charitable organizations and instilled in them an ethos of compassion, respect and aid without doubting or questioning why. Over the years, Valdivia gave out food and money to homeless people. We're learning so much about her giving nature from people who are paying their respects, said daughter Irma Gonzalez. That's our second family all our customers are our family and they've been supporting us through this." "She would never say no to the beach," said Elizabeth Rodriguez of her mother Maria Esther Valdivia. Above, a makeshift memorial at Tacos Delta. (Nathan Solis / Los Angeles Times) "She grew up poor. She knew what it meant to go to sleep hungry," said daughter Elizabeth Rodriguez. "Her favorite saying was, 'When I die I'm not taking anything with me,'" Gonzalez said. "That's why she was so giving, always making sure that people could take away something from their time here." Sanchez, the customer, drove with George Enciso from Long Beach to the taqueria with a bouquet of flowers. The couple used to live around the corner from the restaurant and always found Valdivia working with a smile. They were often greeted with a hug from the matronly owner. "It's hard to believe she's gone," Enciso said. They talked with her about Puerto Vallarta and going to the beach. Valdivia was planning to take a trip to her hometown in Jalisco, Mexico, her daughters said, and then visit Puerto Vallarta. Their mother was set to fly on the day she passed; her packed bags sat ready in the house. "She would never say no to the beach," Rodriguez said. Maria Esther Valdivia is survived by her husband, four children, 14 grandchildren and one great-grandson. Det. Calvin Dehesa of the LAPD said the department has video footage of the accident from a neighboring business. As is customary in fatal traffic accidents, L.A. County District Atty. George Gascon will review the case to determine negligence and whether to refer it to the city attorney. Dehesa called the accident a really sad, sad case, and unfortunate. The entire family was still in shock, said daughter Gonzalez, but vowed to continued to operate the taqueria together. Even though Valdivia was retired, she continued to come to work, always on the bus and always walking the rest of the way. "She could not stay at home," Sergio Valdivia said Tuesday. "She would have gone crazy." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Sledgehammer suspected to have been used to execute Russian citizen displayed in Lukashenko's palace During an exhibition in the self-proclaimed Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenkos palace, Belarusian media spotted a sledgehammer inscribed "to Alexander Grigoryevich" [Lukashenkos name and patronymic - ed.], which Wagner Group mercenaries might have used to execute a Russian citizen. Source: Nasha Niva, a Belarusian media outlet Details: Belarusian media reported that the sledgehammer was displayed in a violin case, which appears identical to the one a Wagner Group commander recently handed over to a Belarusian museum. The sledgehammer at the exhibition appears to be inscribed; the inscription begins "to Alexander Grigoryevich" The Belarusian state media did not report any additional information about this exhibit. Previously: On 13 November, Russian Telegram channels posted a video showing a Russian citizen being brutally executed without trial by having his head taped to a concrete block and smashed in with a sledgehammer. This appears to have happened in Russia after Nuzhin was returned there in one of the POW swaps. Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of the Wagner Group, hinted that this was his mercenaries doing. Prigozhin has proposed to give the sledgehammer with fake blood stains to the European Parliament in response to the EU Parliament recognising his group as a terrorist organisation. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! These SLO County beach towns are among 10 best in Central California, travel site says A handful of San Luis Obispo County spots are among the best beach towns in Central California, according to travel site TheTravel.com. Californias Central Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beach towns in the U.S., Fatima Shaikh wrote Tuesday on TheTravel.com. Their seemingly untouched and tranquil environment, made complete with beautiful coastal vistas and vibrant culture, sets them apart from other coastal towns in America. To come up with its list, the site looked at communities along the 350-mile coastline from San Francisco to Ventura County. However, Shaikh didnt share the criteria used to select the top 10 beach towns. Santa Cruz took the top spot. Morro Bay ranked the highest of all SLO County communities on the list at No. 3, earning accolades as one of the best coastal communities for wildlife in California. It was followed by Avila Beach in the No. 4 spot, hailed for its quiet life and scenic beauty. Shaikh showcased popular spots including Avila Hot Springs, Cave Landing Beach and Pirates Cove. Also ranked were Cayucos in fifth place and Pismo Beach in ninth place. Heres the full list, according to TheTravel.com: Thick plumes of heavy smoke fill the Halifax sky as an out-of-control fire in a suburban community quickly spreads, engulfing multiple homes and forcing the evacuation of local residents, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on Sunday May 28, 2023. | Kelly Clark, The Canadian Press via Associated Press Wildfires raging through the Canadian province of Nova Scotia have led to the evacuation of 16,000 people. Wildfires have been burning through the country for weeks, with over 108 wildfires in Alberta over the weekend, officials told The Associated Press. The latest wildfire, located in southeastern Canadas Nova Scotia, destroyed over an estimated 200 homes or structures, NPR reported. In a press conference Tuesday, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston stated, Were in a very serious situation in this province, and we need to take the steps we can to protect Nova Scotians. The damage, its extensive, its heartbreaking, Houston said. Related As of Tuesday, there were 13 fires with at least three that were out of control, Scott Tingley, manager of forest protection for the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables, said, per NPR. U.S. air quality alerts The wildfires in Western Canada have led several Northwestern states in the U.S. to issue air quality alerts. As smoke from Canadas wildfire has spread south, air quality alerts have been issued in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania so far, Axios reported. New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have all recorded poor air quality, as of Wednesday morning, according to AccuWeather. PAP soldiers conduct explosive ordnance disposal training China Military Online) 09:43, May 31, 2023 Wearing the heavy protective gear, a soldier assigned to a mobile detachment under the Chinese People's Armed Police (PAP) Force Guangxi Corps threads the needles during an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) training exercise in late May, 2023. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Liu Ming) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The exterior of Lexingtons newest boutique hotel borrows from its industrial surroundings and the citys past. Its fitting. The Manchester, near the corner of Manchester Street and Oliver Lewis Way, is on the site of the former Ashland Distillery, Lexingtons first registered bourbon distillery dating to 1865. The red brick exterior of the Manchester mimics historic brick bourbon rick houses. We wanted it to look like its been here forever, said Nik Feldman, one of the developers involved in bringing the citys newest downtown hotel to life. The seven story, 125-room hotel with a rooftop bar and restaurant will officially open Friday, in time for Lexingtons growing and popular Railbird Festival at The Red Mile. The independent hotel has taken approximately 18 months to build. Step inside the front door and its like stepping back into a different era where a hotel was more than just a place to stay. We modeled it after The Phoenix, said Hank Morris, Feldmans partner who has overseen the construction and design of the hotel. The Phoenix was a downtown hotel near the site of Phoenix Park on the corner of Main and Limestone streets. Morris and Feldman want the Manchester to be a gathering spot, an oasis for guests and locals alike. The front lobby has intricate brick work and multiple seating locations. Theres no bright, florescent lights or kitschy over-the-top signage. Its not copy-and-paste design. With the help of interior designer Jenny Bukovec, Morris and Feldman wanted to create a lobby that was both comfortable and comforting. Some of the furniture and fixtures were built and sourced in Morocco and France. There are subtle nods to Lexington and the Bluegrass bourbon and horse industry but with modern touches and flourishes. Go through the arches in the lobby and guests can immediately see the hotel bar. A large Marjorie Guyan image adorns one wall. Including the work of local artists was a priority, Feldman said. The bar takes center stage in the room. Thats where Michael Florence, a Kentucky native who has worked in restaurants and bars for decades including stints at several popular Lexington restaurants such as Middle Fork and Pearls, will oversee the bar program. Florence has developed several drinks to go with the menu at Granddam, the hotels 140-seat restaurant. The Granddam will serve elevated Appalachian specialties, said Morris. The Granddam, a restaurant that specializes in upscale regional cuisine, inside The Manchester Hotel. The hotel opens June 2, 2023, in the Lexington Distillery District. The interior of the restaurant has plenty of seating for small groups, including a special room that can be booked for larger parties. Theres also plenty of seating for two for special occasions and date nights, Morris and Feldman said. The walls of the Granddam feature horses and prominent Kentucky women and some notorious ones such as Belle Brezing, a Lexington madam who ran a brothel. Behind the bar and between the hotel and an a new event space coming in October is a patio for hotel guests and Granddam diners. Hotel guests can enter the event space at the back of the property through the patio. If a wedding or corporate event is booked at the event venue, guests are able to walk easily between the hotel and an event, Feldman said. Mazunte, which has three locations in Ohio, will open its fourth location in the event space at 903 Manchester St. this fall. Mazunte will have a restaurant, a bar space and two event spaces next door. On the top floor is a unique indoor-outdoor rooftop bar the Lost Palm. This is not your Dads Tiki Bar, Morris said. Think 1960s Florida. There are several photos of long-closed Hialeah race track on the walls. Morris said in addition to drinks, there will also be food service. Alligator-based dishes will be on the menu. Most of the bar is inside, but it does have an extensive roof-top deck complete with old-school cabanas that people can rent. Its more of a lounge than a high-volume bar, Morris said. But its far from stuffy. Take the Palms bathroom walls. Theres ornate wall paper with monkeys on green vines taking swigs out of booze bottles. The Lost Palm, an upscale, rooftop bar, at The Manchester Hotel. The hotel will open June 2, 2023, in the Lexington Distillery District. An oasis and bunk beds The rooms are designed to be an oasis, Morris said. The walls are painted a dark but sedate blue, a nod to the University of Kentucky. The headboards are wrapped in leather, a subtle hat tip to horse racing. There are no phones in the rooms, Feldman said. Everything will be done via text. A guest room at The Manchester Hotel which opens June 2, 2023, in the Lexington Distillery District. A cocktail cart will go from room to room during Happy Hour to offer drink specials. There are also five rooms with double-bunk beds, a newer product in the hotel market. The bunks are double size mattresses for adults. Its for families or smaller groups who may be coming in for a bachelorette party or friends weekend, Feldman said. There are also five penthouse suites with mini kitchenettes. Each of the suites is unique. One of the suites has two bedrooms, and one of those bedrooms includes a bunk bed for traveling families. Most have claw-foot tubs in addition to walk-in showers. We wanted to provide a higher end long-term stay, Feldman said. One of the suites is already booked out for weeks, he said. A suite at The Manchester Hotel. The new hotel opens June 2, 2023, in the Lexington Distillery District. They also wanted to provide unique Bluegrass experiences. Want to learn how to play polo? The Manchester can arrange that. Want special instruction on bourbon prior to hitting the Bourbon Trail? Theyve got you covered. Feldman and Morris have decades of experience in the hotel industry. The two met at Cornell University in New York. Feldman, a former polo player, spent summers in Lexington playing polo and working on horse farms. Feldman has long loved Lexington and wanted to return. We saw there was an unmet need in this market, Feldman said of the boutique hotel concept. Its been a more than three-year process to get the EOP Architects designed hotel from concept to completion. The construction, by Wells & Wells Construction, took around 17 months to complete. The city served as a conduit to a $39 million bond or loan for the new hotel. That means the city has title to the land and The Manchester leases it for 40 years. Many new hotels in downtown Lexington have received tax incentives or public tax dollars including the 21C Hotel and City Centers two Marriott hotels. Morris and Feldman said they feel fortunate so many people have believed in The Manchester. We feel so blessed, Feldman said. Visiting Lexington is an easy sell, they both said. When people come from out of town, they may have an idea of what Kentucky is, Morris said. But when they get here, they realize what a great place this is. Feldman said the two own more property in the Distillery District and may look to develop more properties in the area. A guest bathroom in one of 125 rooms at The Manchester Hotel, which opens June 2, 2023. Hotel adds to booming area of town The Manchester opens as the city has poured millions of dollars into revamping the area around the newly renovated and expanded Central Bank Center. The privately-funded but public Town Branch Park hopes to break ground sometime this year. Town Branch Park will be in between the center and Oliver Lewis Way bridge. For the expansion of the convention center to be a success, the city needs not just more rooms but a diversity of room types, said Mary Quinn Ramer, president and CEO of VisitLex, the citys tourism and convention bureau. Ramer is also a member of the Central Bank Center board. Meeting planners want a set number of rooms within walking distance typically a quarter of a mile from the convention center, Ramer said. As we attract larger conventions to the destination, we need more sleeping rooms within walking distance to the venue, Ramer said. Moreover, Ramer said for the citys tourism business to grow, it needs to offer more options at lots of different price points. Some travelers want the basics. Others want unique experiences, she said. Todays traveler is more discerning than ever, and for a destination to have options that appeal to a wide range of interests, budgets, locales and more, it is critical to have a diverse hotel product, Ramer said. The Manchester Hotel is stunning. Every detail has been carefully articulated. Its wonderful to see our destination continue to evolve in both its offerings and its accommodations. The Manchester fast facts Location: 941 Manchester Street near the corner of Manchester and Oliver Lewis Way Website: www.themanchesterky.com Phone Number: 859-785-3900 Opening Date: June 2, 2023 Restaurants and bars: The Granddam and The Lost Palm Operators: Nik Feldman and Hank Morris Rooms: 125 Starting rate: $220 Types of rooms: Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast Since the dawn of the commercial internet, Americans have spoken and accessed information online without providing their names. Political dissidents freely express their views. Patients search for health information without fearing public embarrassment. Domestic violence victims seek help online, shielding their communications from their abusers. State and federal lawmakers threaten to upend that culture of anonymity. And that should worry all Americans. Disneys Going to School Ron DeSantis About Free Speech In March, Utah enacted a law that requires parental consent for children under 18 to use social media, and it requires platforms to verify the age of all Utah residents. In April, Arkansas passed a similar law, requiring social media companies to use reasonable age verification. And in Congress, a bipartisan group has introduced the Protecting Kids on Social Media Act, which requires social media platforms to take reasonable steps to verify users ages. Age verification requirements endanger the ability of Americans to operate anonymously online, as the laws require the collection of information from everyone regardless of age. The statutes do not mandate a specific type of age verification; indeed, their vagueness on that point suggests that nobody quite knows how to meet the requirements without creating massive privacy problems. The Utah law punts the issue to regulators, though it states that age verification cant be limited to only government ID cards. The Arkansas law allows social media companies to determine what verification method is reasonable, and it includes a drivers license as one such way of meeting the requirement. The federal proposal states that the age verification must be beyond merely requiring attestation. Whether the verification is via government identification cards, facial scans, or other technologies, these laws encourage companies to amass information that could link the persons identity to their social media activities. Companies simply have not found a magical solution that can both fully safeguard a users identity and verify their age with sufficient accuracy to meet the legal requirements. Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast As Shoshana Weissmann of R Street Institute recently wrote, the technology is not ready for prime time and either lacks accuracy or deeply invades privacy. Defenders of such identification requirements might argue that people could still post and browse the internet without publicly disclosing their real names. But the mere collection of identifying informationeither by an online service or its third-party intermediarycreates a link between users online activities and their names. Even China, which requires social media users to register identifying information with its Ministry of Public Security, portrays the requirements as foreground voluntary name, background real name. But there is little doubt that critics of the government could be easily identified. The laws and bills try to address concerns about unauthorized access by limiting the use and retention of age verification data. But anyone who has paid attention to the steady drumbeat of data breaches over the past decade knows that no company can guarantee the safety of personal information. A computer hack, poorly configured privacy settings, or a subpoena could quickly link the speaker and the name. The states lack of concern for anonymity is no surprise. Debates about online harms often fuel calls for real-name requirements or other abrogations of anonymity. Although these proposals often are well intentioned, they ignore the prospect of silencing marginalized groups that do not have the luxury of speaking and receiving information under their real names. Free speech expert Jillian York aptly characterizes these proposals as the White Mans Gambit. Policymakers often point to bad actors who operate online anonymously, but this focus ignores both the trolls who post abhorrent content under their real names and the vulnerable people who could face retaliation and other harms if they used their real names. As I describe in my recent book, anonymity and pseudonymity are deeply rooted in U.S. history, and foundational documents such as the Federalist Papers and Common Sense were not first published under the authors names. The reasons for seeking anonymity range from fear of persecution to more effectively communicating a message that is not bogged down with the authors identity. The Supreme Court has recognized the importance of anonymity, and more than a half-century ago ruled that the First Amendment provides strong protections for anonymous speech and association. The First Amendment Is the Greatest Defense for the Powerless and Marginalized The Court first recognized a constitutional right to anonymity in 1958, blocking Alabama officials attempt to force the local NAACP chapter to disclose a list of its members. Since then, the Court has struck down laws that required pamphlets to list the authors names and an ordinance that forced door-to-door canvassers to register with the municipal government. The Court traced this right to anonymity to Americas long history of anonymous speech. The large quantity of newspapers and pamphlets the Framers produced during the various crises of their generation show the remarkable extent to which the Framers relied upon anonymity, Justice Clarence Thomas wrote in a 1995 concurrence. Trump Will Never Stop Reminding Us That He Hates Free Speech Two decades ago, courts began applying these anonymity values to the internet by setting a high bar for plaintiffs who sought to use subpoenas to unmask the identities of anonymous online posters. The right to speak anonymously extends to speech via the Internet, a Washington state federal judge wrote in a 2001 order quashing such a subpoena. Internet anonymity facilitates the rich, diverse, and far ranging exchange of ideas. The First Amendment restricts government action, so it would not prohibit a company from voluntarily requiring its users to provide identifying information. Indeed, Facebook has long had a real-name requirement (one that has rightly received substantial criticism). But serious First Amendment problems arise if a state or federal law requires those companies to collect identifying information. Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast Another attempt at protecting children onlinethe 1996 Communications Decency Actcaused the Supreme Court to forcefully state that the First Amendment applies to the internet. In 1997, the Court struck down the law, which restricted the online transmission of indecent and patently offensive material to minors. And courts have recognized the harms of eroding anonymous online speech, even when the law is intended to protect children. In 1998, New Mexico passed a law that restricted the dissemination of harmful online material to minors. Among the defenses provided in the law was the use of identity verification. And the implications of this defense for anonymity were among the reasons that New Mexico federal judge Curtis Hansen struck down the law. Requiring a credit card, debit account, adult access code, or adult personal identification number before providing access to speech on the Internet would bar many adults who lack such identification from access to information appropriate for them, wrote Hansen, who was affirmed by the Tenth Circuit. Requiring age verification before providing access to speech on the Internet would bar many people from accessing important informationsuch as gynecological informationanonymously. The state laws do not go so far as to explicitly require credit cards, drivers licenses, or other identity verification, as they fail to specify how an online service might meet the age estimation requirement. But that uncertainty is precisely the problem. ACLU Hero Ira Glasser: How Freedom of Speech Protects You from Rulers Like Trump Website operators that want to avoid costly regulatory actions likely will collect sufficient data to show that they have certainty in their age verification. And that datawhether drivers licenses, facial scans, credit card numbers, or something elsewill erode users anonymity. I do not mean to downplay the legitimate concerns about the harms of social media for teenagers. And the First Amendment right to anonymity is not absolute. But I doubt that age verification requirements are effective enough to survive a constitutional challenge. If there is any possibility of dodging an identification requirement, there is a good chance that determined teenagers will figure out how to do so. Yet millions of other social media users who play by the rules will have no choice but to turn over their personal information. Despite its importance throughout U.S. history, anonymity is too often forgotten in discussions about privacy and online harms. The courts should strike down these laws and allow people to continue to separate their identities from their online activities. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. An Independence man pleaded guilty in federal court Tuesday to illegally purchasing a firearm through another person that he then showed off in various posts on his social media account. Kurup C. Seuell, 21, pleaded guilty to illegally possessing a firearm as a felon, according to a news release from U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. Seuell obtained the weapon through a straw purchaser one month after he was released from state prison on parole. The pair bought the Glock 9mm handgun in January 2021 from Frontier Justice, a firearms store and shooting range in Lees Summit. Seuell had been released on parole in December 2020 after a 2018 conviction for stealing. Later that day, Seuell posted a video on Facebook showing the handgun in his lap. Officials said an investigation into his social media accounts from January 2021 to March 2023 showed Seuell often in possession of various assault-style rifles, handguns, guns with extended magazines, marijuana and large amounts of cash. Officials estimate he displayed at least eight but no more than 99 different firearms on his accounts. He also made posts to sell guns, and showed himself firing them at shooting ranges. In March 2023, when investigators were searching for Seuell to arrest him, he posted a video of himself firing an apparent automatic-style pistol with a drum-style magazine at Crossfire Recreation Center in Independence. Investigators said they obtained Seuells signed copy of the shooting range safety rules and surveillance video showing Seuell firing various weapons at the range and getting 50 rounds of ammunition from the centers gun store. Officials found Seuells address the following day and law enforcement chased him as he fled the home. Eventually, they found his vehicle at a gas station and arrested him at the store. Officers found the firearms from Seuells social media and the surveillance footage in his residence, as well as the ammo he got from the gun store. Seuell now faces up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. How the sounds of 'Succession' shred the grandeur and respect the characters so desperately try to project While the Roy siblings are shielded by their wealth, the show's music chips away at their armor. Macall Polay/HBO HBOs Succession delivered its grand finale on May 28, 2023 the climax of four award-packed seasons of searing put-downs, nihilistic humor and desperate power plays. The show tells the story of ailing media tycoon Logan Roy and his four horrid children who aim to inherit his empire. I loved it because it rendered despicable people in power as human funny, pathetic, capable of deep feeling without once trying to redeem them. But as a music historian, I will miss the series use of music and sound the most. As many critics have noticed, one of the series best elements is its soundtrack, which is as complex and propulsive as the drama it accompanies. To me, the shows clever sound design, combined with composer Nicholas Britells gleefully dark score, reflects a level of emotional sophistication that is unrivaled on television. The theme song for Succession, composed by Nicholas Britell. YouTube/HBO1.42 MB (download) Corrupting classical music Most contemporary political dramas are about corruption, and music is great at progressively turning something seemingly wholesome into something sour. Traditionally, this is done by adding chromaticism the black keys of the piano keyboard into the chords and melody, which produces a sense of darkening and dissonance. But these days, anything sounding weird an off-beat rhythm, an unexpected sound can do the trick. It is the composers skill in layering the strangeness into the music that makes the difference. Britell has described being inspired by European late-18th century music. And the theme of Succession does draw from a couple of unmemorable bars from Beethovens Pathetique Sonata, slowed down and with a few changed notes. However, Id say the theme songs soundworld is closer to the opening dance of Sergei Prokofievs 1935 ballet Romeo and Juliet or Sergei Rachmaninovs famous 1892 piano prelude in C Sharp minor: big romantic pieces that swing between bass notes and thick block chords like the batter of a church bell. But Britell then adds details that work in outlandish tension with the romantic musical language hes adopted. For example, the piano that plays the theme song is audibly out of tune. Thats no accident. Meanwhile, the melody, which is in a high register, awkwardly tries, but ultimately fails, to squirm its way to a brighter key. Throughout the show, there are a lot of reality-show-style pans to the faces of characters saying things like I am excited. This is their music. The rhythm is littered by small dissonant accents in the upper register of the piano that sound like a fun-house version of the low battery sound on a cellphone. The effect is alarming and oddly befitting of the topic of a corrupt media conglomerate. Lastly, Britell is a hip-hop beat maker and layers the theme song with a cheesy 1990s synthesizer beat. This adds bounce, and a smirk, to the romantic broodiness of the chords and melody. In his very 21st-century way, Britell festoons earnest Romantic music with details that gleefully desecrate it, bringing viewers right into the psychological dynamics of the shows protagonists: a hunger for power, accompanied by levels of self-loathing that vacillate between comedy and tragedy. Brood too much and the effect is lost For comparison, House of Cards, which follows a crooked politicians quest for the U.S. presidency, and Yellowstone, which tells the story of a Montana landowning familys mission to ward off developers, Indigenous leaders and environmental activists, also attempt to convey a grim mood and crookedness in their music. Both shows have rightly garnered attention and praise. Yet they, unlike Succession, have, in my view, underwhelming scores. The title theme for House of Cards, composed by Jeff Beal. YouTube/Simon1.47 MB (download) Their theme songs are symphonic, which befits the grandeur of the topic and obscene privilege of the characters; tunes are carried in the deeper, lower range, rather than the more customary bright, high register. Both theme songs make heavy use of the lower strings of violas, cellos and double basses, which further darken the sonic palette. The title theme for Yellowstone, composed by Brian Tyler. YouTube/EndtheProject974 KB (download) The composers also make an effort to signal corruption through momentarily dissonant chords or notes. At the end of the opening credits of House of Cards, you can hear it in the twang of the electric guitar. And in Yellowstone, Tyler uses chromaticism to decorate the melody. These tricks, however, dont quite land. In order for the stain of corruption to stand out, musically and otherwise, it has to operate against a relatively clean background. The scores for both House of Cards and Yellowstone are already dark and twisty to begin with, which makes the staining effect harder to pull off. This is where Britells astute ways of combining brightness and darkness in Successions music make all the difference. Hearing what the characters hear The unusual sound design in Succession also unveiled the series psychological complexity. Sound design indicates the ways in which all sounds, from noises to dialogue and music, are mixed into the soundtrack. In the pilot episode, viewers meet Kendall Roy, an eminently slappable finance bro and heir apparent to his fathers company. Hes being chauffeured to a business meeting, and hes bouncing in the back seat to the Beastie Boys An Open Letter to New York. Its utterly cringeworthy: a wealthy white dude using hip-hop as emotional fluffing. The Beastie Boys, as Britell and the showrunners must know, have been criticized for being white Jewish musicians parading as white working-class boys aping, in turn, Black hip-hop artists. At first the Beastie Boys blare out on the soundtrack; seconds later, their music disappears into Kendalls headphones, and viewers hear his whiny voice rapping the lyrics. Suddenly, we suspect he might hate himself more than we already do. Film scholar Claudia Gorbman first theorized the effect toyed with here by Successions award-winning sound designers, Nicholas Renbeck and Andy Kris. Gorbman highlights the distinction between diegetic music music playing in the background, say, at a party, or ambient sounds, like cutlery and crockery that can be heard by the characters in the film, and non-diegetic music, which is music heard only by the films audience and not by the characters. The balance between these two kinds of music and sounds creates the psychological setup for the story: Diegetic implies that the characters world is not quite the audiences own. Non-diegetic, on the other hand, implies that the filmmakers are conveying the characters emotions to the audience, like when the music comes in as two romantic leads share a kiss. The switch from non-diegetic to diegetic in Kendalls entrance gives viewers a sense that they are spying on his fragile self-delusion. He is slippery, tweaky, unknown even to himself. Haunted by water Britells music, and the shows use of diegetic and non-diegetic sound, may be one of the reasons why, even four seasons in, that none of the shows fans could confidently anticipate who would succeed the familys patriarch. The series that begins with Kendall fittingly ends with him, too, as he walks, in a daze, along the Hudson River. The non-diegetic theme song plays in the background one last time. Then, for a brief moment before a hard cut to a black screen the sound goes diegetic: Viewers hear, with Kendall, the sound of the river flowing. Its a shocking moment. The shows sound designers deliberately avoided ambient noises so as to show how the Roy siblings are too privileged and too busy scheming to notice their surroundings. The moment Kendall hears the Hudson, everyone understands first by ear, then by sight that this story is over. 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: Delia Casadei, University of California, Berkeley. Read more: Delia Casadei 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. A convenience store owner in South Carolina is under arrest after he allegedly chased down and fatally shot a 14-year-old boy in the back over a false allegation that the boy had stolen water bottles from the store. The teen, Cyrus Carmack-Belton, walked into the Xpress Mart Shell Station in Columbia on Sunday night and was falsely accused of stealing water bottles by Rick Chow, the 58-year-old owner of the store, according to the Richland County Sheriffs Department. He did not shoplift anything, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott told reporters at a news conference Monday. We have no evidence that he stole anything whatsoever. The Xpress Mart convenience store is seen Tuesday in Columbia, South Carolina. The store owner is accused of chasing a 14-year-old and fatally shooting the teen in the back, according to the Richland County Sheriff's Department. The Xpress Mart convenience store is seen Tuesday in Columbia, South Carolina. The store owner is accused of chasing a 14-year-old and fatally shooting the teen in the back, according to the Richland County Sheriff's Department. Chows son, who has not been identified, began arguing with Carmack-Belton. Lott didnt detail what the argument was about, but following the argument Carmack-Belton took off running. Chow and his son gave chase, according to Lott. At one point during the chase, Carmack-Belton fell down and got back up. Chows son told his dad Carmack-Belton had a gun, leading Chow to shoot the boy in the back as he fled, authorities said. Carmack-Belton was taken to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead. The sheriffs office said a gun was later recovered next to where Carmack-Belton had been fatally shot, but that there was no evidence the teen ever pointed the weapon at Chow or his son. Lott told reporters that even if the teen had taken the water bottles, it was no reason to kill him. Regardless, even if he had shoplifted four bottles of water, which is what he initially took out the cooler and then he put them back, even if he had done that, thats not thats not something you shoot anybody over, much less a 14-year-old, Lott said. Chow remains in custody on a murder charge. The latest senseless shooting can be added to a growing list of people who have been shot over simple misunderstandings by trigger-happy assailants. Earlier this month, a Louisiana man was charged with shooting a 14-year-old girl in the back while she played hide-and-seek near the mans property with friends. Two cheerleaders in Texas were shot in April after one of them accidentally entered the wrong car. Both girls survived and are recovering from their injuries. And a couple in Florida said their car was shot at after they accidentally drove to the wrong address for an Instacart delivery. Police declined to charge the shooter because it happened on his own property. Thelistgoeson. Police charged a gas station convenience store owner with murder Monday after he allegedly shot and killed a 14-year-old boy wrongly accused of shoplifting in South Carolina, officials said. Rick Chow, 58, mistakenly thought Cyrus Carmack-Belton had taken four bottles of water on Sunday night, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said during a press conference. The teen ran out of the Xpress Mart Shell station in Columbia after a verbal confrontation. Chow's son chased after him and was then joined by his armed father. "Rick Chow shot this young man in the back and he killed him and he is going to be appropriately charged with murder," Lott said during a news conference. Rick Chow / Credit: Richland County Sheriff's Office There was no indication that the teen and Chow had a fight in the store before Carmack-Belton ran away, the coroner said. She confirmed the teen died from a gunshot wound to the right lower back. The shot caused significant damage to Carmack-Belton's heart and hemorrhaging. Chow was charged after the autopsy showed the teen was shot in the back and deputies spoke to witnesses and reviewed surveillance videos, Lott said. "It seems to be consistent with someone who was running away from the assailant," Richland County Coroner Nadia Rutherford said. "This is not an accidental shooting by any means. This was a very intentional shooting." A gun was found near Carmack-Belton's body, Lott said. During the chase, Chow's son had called out that the teen had a gun, but there was no indication that the teen ever pointed a gun at the father and son. There is a history of shoplifting incidents at the Xpress Mart Shell station in Columbia, Lott said. Chow had been involved in confrontations with customers over shoplifting in the past, but he never faced any charges. Lott said there was no evidence at all that Carmack-Belton took anything. "Even if he had shoplifted four bottles of water, which he had taken out of the cooler and then put back even if he had done that, that's not something you should shoot anybody over, much less a 14-year-old," Lott said. There has been outrage in the community since the shooting. Incorrect rumors have spread that the teen was kneeling or laying on the ground or had his hands up before he was shot, Lott said. A peaceful protest at the gas station Monday night was hijacked by looters. "We had one tragedy the other night when the 14-year-old was shot. Why in the world did we have to continue to have what we had last night with people just going out and stealing and trying to destroy? That's not what this is about," Lott said. "That's not what the family of that 14-year-old wants." Lott said looters will be arrested. The department has had to dedicate deputies to guard the store. "That store did not shoot that 14-year-old. The person responsible has been arrested. He's in jail. He's in jail, exactly where he needs to be," Lott said. "That's where justice is being served." There was looting at the Xpress Mart Shell station in Columbia, South Carolina the day after the shooting of 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack-Belton. / Credit: Richland County Sheriff's Office Chow was booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center after his arrest, officials said. He appeared in court Tuesday afternoon, but the magistrate there said that under South Carolina law, he could not set bond for Chow, CBS affiliate WLTX reported. The magistrate said a bond hearing before a circuit court judge would be set for a later date. Lott said Chow was legally able to have the gun, adding that he believes Chow had a concealed weapons permit. Debt ceiling deal passes House vote, advances to Senate What NASA's UFO hearing revealed Job market remains strong, Labor Department data shows TYNDALL A man charged in connection to a triple murder in Scotland, South Dakota appeared inside a Bon Homme County courthouse on Wednesday afternoon for a change of plea hearing where he pleaded guilty but mentally ill to three counts of first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault. With his plea, Francis D. Lange, 43, admitted guilt in killing his former girlfriend, Angela Monclova, Librado Monclova and Diane Akins on Nov. 9, 2021 in Scotland. A 5-year-old child and Vicki Monclova were also injured in the incident and were flown to Sioux Falls via helicopter with life-threatening injuries, according to court documents. At Wednesdays hearing, Langes defense read a document signed by Lange in which he said he fired approximately 12 shots after he entered the residence in an argument over a gun he was missing. Francis Lange pleaded guilty but mentally ill on Wednesday to three counts of murder stemming from a triple homicide in Scotland, South Dakota. He was taken into custody without incident approximately an hour after authorities were called at another location in Scotland, according to court documents. Officers located a handgun less than a half block from the scene of the shooting, according to a probable cause affidavit. Through a search warrant, officers located a box for the handgun that matched the serial number of the firearm that was located. An indictment, filed in November of 2021, charged Lange with three counts of first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree attempted murder, two counts of aggravated assault and two counts of commission of a felony while armed with a firearm. Lange was arrested and held on a $2 million bond, according to court documents. More: What we know about the Scotland, South Dakota, shooting that left three dead Josette Lindahl, a psychiatrist at Avera Medical Behavioral Health in Sioux Falls, testified at Wednesdays hearing. Lindahl performed the evaluation for the mental health competency test, in which she said she found Lange was competent to stand trial and was capable and able to understand the charges he was facing. She also testified that she had diagnosed Lange with schizoaffective disorder and said that his alcohol and substance abuse had made the symptoms worse. Five people were shot at a home on Second Street and Juniper Street in Scotland, South Dakota on Tuesday, Nov. 9. Three of them died and two others were injured. A guilty but mentally ill plea is the same as a guilty plea, South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley explained after the hearing. However, the guilty but mentally ill plea allows for further evaluation and treatment. Lange will face three mandatory life sentences without the chance of parole, plus thirty years for the aggravated assault charges, Jackley said. Lange will not face the death penalty, as the state filed a notice of intent to not seek that penalty in February. Our thoughts and prayers go to the victims, especially the 5-year-old little girl that was seriously injured in the incident, Jackley said. I would also like to specifically extend my appreciation to the paramedics, to the sheriffs deputies and DCI agents through the investigation, as well as the prosecution team that included the states attorney and our criminal chief at the Attorney Generals Office. This was a local effort of the sheriff, the states attorney working with the Attorney General to achieve some justice for the victims families today, Jackley said. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: South Dakota man pleads guilty but mentally ill in triple homicide The South Dakota Housing Development Authority Board heard public comments Wednesday regarding rules for a loan and grant program that would provide funding for housing infrastructure projects across the state. However, it looks like the program which has already been delayed due to the administrative rule process since the bill that created it was signed into law in February will be unable to help tribal communities secure funding for much-needed housing infrastructure. Thats because Tuesday, during the boards regularly scheduled meeting, it was disclosed by the interim executive director of the South Dakota Housing Development Authority, a semi-independent agency that oversees affordable housing in the state, that the public infrastructure will be owned, maintained or provided by a political subdivision of this state, according to South Dakota Searchlight. More: South Dakota's $200M housing development program could be delayed until August But tribal entities are not considered political subdivisions, due to their sovereign status. In written testimony, the Cheyenne River Housing Authority, the tribally designated housing entity which administers federal and state funds for affordable housing on the Cheyenne River Reservation, wrote that while it appreciated tribes were included in the eligibility for the program it was concerned about the political subdivision requirement. This creates a barrier for Tribes who are currently developing and/or managing infrastructure because in the majority of cases, Tribes or tribally created entities provide and maintain infrastructure on their reservations, the organization wrote. It is often that case that a tribal entity is also providing the infrastructure for all residents, both tribal and non-tribal, on a reservation. More: SD housing authority grant and loan program on track to be approved by July after delays The Cheyenne River Housing Authority continued that by not adding tribes to the definition of political subdivision, the program created an unintended obstacle for the tribes. A row of new homes are under construction on Thursday, July 14, 2022, in western Sioux Falls. The South Dakota Native Homeownership Coalition, in written testimony, echoed comments made by the Cheyenne River Housing Authority. 'Unintended consequences' Rep. Tyler Tordsen, R-Sioux Falls, was quick to tweet Tuesday that he was starting to work on legislation to get tribes included in the grant and loan program. Tordsen told the Argus Leader Wednesday that he and other stakeholders in the program assumed that tribes would be eligible. However, because of the way state law defines public infrastructure and political subdivisions, he and others realized that we weren't going to be able to find a good loophole or a way to make sure that tribal entities are going to be eligible to go after this. S.D. Representative Tyler Tordsen listens as Kristi Noem gives the State of the State address on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at the South Dakota State Capitol in Pierre. He explained that in the past few days, it became apparent that a legislative fix was needed. There was no there was no intention of cutting tribes out on this, Tordsen said. There's nothing nefarious going on, which is really good. Everybody's on the same page. It's just one of those unintended consequences. Chas Olson, the interim director of SDHDA said Wednesday during the public comment period that he believed there could be a workaround for tribes. The wording is the definition of public infrastructure does allow for a kind of a workaround. It does say that the public infrastructure must be owned or provided by, he said, explaining the city or county, acting as the political subdivision, could apply for the fund, get the infrastructure built and then turn long term ownership over to the tribes. More: South Dakota governor says 'houses would be built' if legislature had done things her way Tordsen was hesitant about the proposed workaround, saying it would be tough to find a city or county in Indian Country who would be willing to trade ownership of public infrastructure. I think they would be reluctant to take on the added infrastructure that would be created by tribes, if it's a tribal housing project, and then vice versa, tribes wanting to, or their willingness, to hand over ownership of certain infrastructure pieces, Tordsen said, adding he remained hopeful those kinds of partnerships could occur. Olson, after acknowledging that some kind of legislative fix to make tribal entities eligible most likely needed to happen, said he had been asked about setting aside a certain percentage of the funding for tribes until the language could be figured out, but he didnt believe that would be possible. Theres really no guarantee that there will be a legislative fix, Olson said, explaining SDHDA felt it was out of their authority to set aside a certain amount of funds. The grant and loan program will now go in front of the lawmakers who make up the Interim Rules Review committee in June. If the rules for the program are approved, program applications could start going out as soon as July. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Tribes cut out of SD housing infrastructure grant program SYDNEY (Reuters) - South Korean and Pacific Islands leaders agreed to strengthen development and security cooperation after a two-day summit where Seoul said it would double development assistance by 2027. A joint declaration from the first Korea-Pacific Islands Summit, held in Seoul, recognised shared values of "freedom, democracy, the rule of law, human rights" and the "rules-based regional and international order". The Pacific Islands span 40 million square km (15 million square miles) of ocean between the United States and Asia, and Western allies have moved to boost their engagement amid concerns over China's security ambitions for the strategic waters and economic leverage among the small island states. A statement issued after the summit between South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol and 17 leaders and representatives from the Pacific Island Forum said "peace and stability in the Pacific region are interlinked with global peace and stability". "The Leaders acknowledge the need to strengthen development cooperation and security collaboration including maritime security, climate security, energy security, cyber security, human security, public health and transnational security," it said. South Korea also said it would double the scale of its development assistance to Pacific Island Countries by 2027, and supported the Pacific Islands push to preserve their maritime zones - a vital source of fishing revenue - even if climate change causes small island states to disappear beneath rising seas. It was the third summit in a week between Pacific Island leaders and a large economy, following meetings with India and the United States. South Korea and the Pacific Islands shared the view the ocean should be kept free of radioactive waste, and the need for international consultation and scientific assessment, the statement said, a reference to concern over Japan's plan to release water from the destroyed Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea. (Reporting by Kirsty Needham; Editing by Lincoln Feast) By Hyonhee Shin SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korean nuclear safety experts who visited Japan's wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant said on Wednesday that detailed analysis was needed to verify Japan's plan to release tonnes of contaminated water from it into the sea. The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear station, about 220 km (130 miles) northeast of Tokyo, was destroyed by a magnitude 9.0 earthquake and tsunami in 2011, triggering three reactor meltdowns. Japan plans to dump more than one million tonnes of contaminated water that was mainly used to cool the reactors into the sea by around this summer, triggering alarm at home and abroad, especially in fishing communities. "Given our closest location, we are reviewing whether Japan has an appropriate discharge plan from a scientific and technological standpoint," Yoo Guk-hee, chairman of the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission, who led a delegation on a site visit last week, told a briefing. The Japanese utility responsible for the plant, and the Japanese government, say the water is safe after being treated, filtered and diluted though it does contain traces of tritium. Yoo said there had been progress in checking facilities and securing samples and documents but further work was needed to reach any conclusion about the water's safety. "Additional detailed analysis and checks are required," he said. The 21-member South Korean team had focused during its six-day trip on water purification, transport and release equipment, as well as sampling and analysis facilities. The visit came days after President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held a summit in Seoul this month amid a thaw in relations following years of tension between the neighbours, both important U.S. allies. The International Atomic Energy Agency is also conducting a safety review of Japan's plan to release the water. It is expected to announce its results in coming weeks. (Reporting by Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Robert Birsel) South Koreas military said it salvaged an object presumed to be part of the crashed North Korean rocket carrying a spy satellite after it plunged into waters near South Korea. Later, the Defense Ministry released photos of the suspected rocket part. North Koreas attempt to launch a spy satellite into space, which would be the countrys first, failed Wednesday after the rocket plunged into waters approximately 124 miles west of the southwestern island of Eocheongdo. The countrys space agency attributed the failure to "the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system applied to (the) carrier rocket" and "the unstable character of the fuel," according to the Norths official Korean Central News Agency. The Norths National Aerospace Development Administration will conduct a more thorough investigation into "serious defects revealed" by the launch, according to KCNA. NORTH KOREA INFANT JAILED FOR LIFE AFTER PARENTS FOUND WITH BIBLE ACCORDING TO RECENT REPORT Pyongyang said it will conduct a second launch as soon as possible, once it learns what went wrong. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP The newly developed Chollima-1 rocket, carrying the Malligyong-1 satellite, launched from the Norths Sohae Satellite Launching Ground at 6:37 a.m. local time. The rocket lost thrust between its first and second stages and crashed off the Korean Peninsulas western coast, state-affiliated media reported. NORTH KOREA MISSILE LAUNCH THAT PUT SOUTH KOREA, JAPAN ON HIGH ALERT ENDS IN FAILURE South Koreas military also reported the North Korean rocket had "an abnormal flight" before crashed. Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno confirmed no object from the launch reached its intended orbit in space. Wednesdays launch prompted South Korea and Japan to briefly urge residents to take shelter. South Korea's capital, Seoul, issued alerts over public speakers and via text messages and Japan activated its missile warning system in southwestern Japan, which was the rockets suspected path. CHINA SENDS THREE ASTRONAUTS TO TIANGONG SPACE STATION AHEAD OF TRIP TO THE MOON Seouls military said it boosted military readiness and Tokyo said it was prepared to respond to any emergency. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada said his country will keep its missile defense systems deployed until June 11, which is the end of North Koreas announced launch window. North Korean dictator Kim Jong-Un has continually pushed for his country to develop long-range missiles and has conducted various tests in recent years which have demonstrated a potential range that could reach all the continental U.S. Experts, however, have said North Korea lacks the technology to construct functioning nuclear missiles. Kim claims the rocket technology, as well as the space spy satellites, will serve as deterrents to potential aggressions from South Korea and the West. The satellite launch directly violated U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban North Korea from conducting any launch based on ballistic technology. It came as diplomacy between Pyongyang, Washington and Seoul has stalled. Washington strongly condemned Wednesdays launch because North Korea used banned ballistic missile technology, according to Adam Hodge, a spokesperson at the U.S. National Security Council. The launch also escalated tensions and risked destabilization in the region and the world, he said. "We are aware of the DPRKs launch using ballistic missile technology, which, is a brazen violation of multiple unanimous UN Security Council resolutions, raises tensions, and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region and beyond," U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Public Affairs said. "This launch involved technologies that are directly related to the DPRK intercontinental ballistic missile program." The U.S. said it will take all measures necessary to ensure the security of the American homeland and its regional allies. "We are assessing the situation in close coordination with our allies and partners. We have assessed that this event did not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel, territory, or of our allies, but will continue to monitor the situation. The U.S. commitment to homeland defense and the defense of the Republic of Korea and Japan, remains ironclad," the statement continued. North Korean official Ri Pyong Chol defended the North's need for a space-based reconnaissance system in a statement Tuesday, saying such technology could counter potential security threats from South Korea and the United States. LEADERS OF EUROPEAN UNION, SOUTH KOREA AGREE TO INCREASE PRESSURE ON RUSSIA, CONDEMN NORTH KOREA MISSILE TESTS In the statement, Ri said North Korea would test "various reconnaissance means" to monitor moves by the United States and its allies in real-time. Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Koreas Science and Technology Policy Institute, said North Korea could utilize three to five spy satellites to build a space-based surveillance system that allows it to monitor the Korean Peninsula in near real time. The spy satellite is one of several high-tech weapons systems that are coming out of North Korea. Other weapons on Kims wish list include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. South Korea is expected to launch its first spy satellite later this year. North Korea successfully put its first satellite into orbit in 2012 and a second one in 2016 after repeated failures. Pyongyang said both are designed solely for Earth observation within its peaceful space development program, although some critics are skeptical. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Will SouthPark fire lead to stronger safety codes? + Controversial south Charlotte school lines head for vote Hey, everyone! Drew here. Happy Hump Day! Were on to the next round in CharlotteFives latest Readers Choice poll on the best sushi in the area. Youve narrowed the field down from 50 to 30, now its time to vote again. Poll closes at noon on Friday. On to your news for today. A photo from the street outside the massive fire in SouthPark. Local and state fire safety officials are discussing implementing more fire-prevention requirements after the massive SouthPark fire. The five-alarm fire on May 18 killed two construction workers and sparked spot fires on nearby structures. Ryan Oehrli reports on whats being done. Parents and students form a human chain along Colony Road, between Alexander Graham Middle School and Myers Park High School, to demonstrate they are one campus on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.. A massive student reassignment is underway in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. For thousands of families in south Charlotte, the monthslong task of balancing boundaries launched a wave of emotions. Anna Maria Della Costa shares more from the controversial move by CMS. The headquarters of Red Ventures in Indian Land, S.C. Red Ventures and its subsidiary MyMove have agreed to pay $2.75 million to the federal government. The payment by the Indian Land, S.C.-based internet sales and marketing giant is to resolve claims they misrepresented costs when handling millions of Americans change of address forms. Joe Marusak details the payment by Red Ventures. The uptown Charlotte skyline is shown from the seventh-floor roof of the hourly parking deck in July 2022 at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Its no secret that Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a major travel hub for both airlines and passengers. In 2022 alone, CLT handled over 500,000 arrivals and departures and nearly 48 million travelers. As for 2023, the airport is gearing up for its busiest summer ever. Chyna Blackmon shares how CLT measures up on a global scale. 5. Some more stories to read --- Thats it for now. Thanks for reading! If you dont already, subscribe to the Charlotte Observer here. If youre already a subscriber (thanks!), download our iOS or Android app to stay connected. Find more updates at charlotteobserver.com, and follow along on Twitter, Instagram and Tik Tok to see more from us. Enjoy your day! Did someone forward this newsletter to you? You can sign up here. (Bloomberg) -- Spains opposition leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo, who is looking to become premier in a snap July election, promised to cut taxes and slash the countrys soaring public obligations in a bid to highlight his business-friendly credentials. Most Read from Bloomberg Im very worried about Spains debt, Feijoo, the leader of the conservative Peoples Party, said at a business event in Barcelona Wednesday. We have to attract investment and tell companies that Spain is the best place for them to invest. Feijoo became the front-runner for the July 23 national election after the PP trounced Prime Minister Pedro Sanchezs Socialist party in regional and municipal ballots over the weekend. A poll published Wednesday showed that the PP and Vox, an ultra-right, anti-immigration party, have a comfortable enough margin to form a government. Barcelona is the capital of the Catalan region, which plays a central role in any Spanish election given its size, population and wealth. It has also been a traditional Socialist stronghold and handed the party one of its best performances in the May 28 election. Read More: Spains Embattled Prime Minister Gambles Again on Snap Election In Wednesdays speech, Feijoo accused Sachez of alienating the business establishment, saying windfall taxes on banks and energy firms passed last year scared off investors. These are policies that can win votes, but not investments, he said. Feijoo also said he would lower debt relative to output; cut public sector deficit; and review a tax on the wealthy that Sanchez passed last year. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Spain risks following US, Brazil in lurch to far-right, PM says FILE PHOTO: Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez appears after he casts his vote at a polling station in Madrid By Emma Pinedo and Joan Faus MADRID/BARCELONA (Reuters) - Spain could follow the U.S. and Brazil in lurching to the far-right in a parliamentary election on July 23, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Wednesday, urging Spaniards to give him a "strong, resounding backing for the next four years". Sanchez, a Socialist, called a surprise snap vote after his minority left-wing ruling coalition suffered heavy losses in regional elections on Sunday. Most recent opinion polls have put the conservative People's Party (PP) ahead of the Socialists, but shy of a full parliamentary majority, meaning they will likely have to negotiate a coalition with the anti-immigration and anti-abortion Vox party. In his first public address since announcing the election, Sanchez warned that voting for the PP would imply welcoming into government a party aligned with the views of former presidents Donald Trump in the U.S. and Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil, who were defeated by Joe Biden and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, respectively, after one term in office. "Spain is not immune to this reactionary trend, but in Spain we can stop it, for our sons and daughters," Sanchez told Socialist lawmakers, urging Spaniards to decide whether "they want a prime minister on the side of Biden or Trump, on the side of Lula or Bolsonaro." PP leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo reiterated on Wednesday he would seek an absolute majority and avoided answering questions about any potential deal with Vox. Speaking at an event in Barcelona, he also said he would focus on cutting public debt if his party wins in July, adding that a government led by his party would also reduce electricity bills for consumers and some companies. Sanchez acknowledged that calling a snap election in the middle of summer holidays, especially since it will be the first unaffected by any pandemic restrictions, is far from convenient for many. "I know that the first completely normal (post-pandemic) holidays are approaching, which Spanish society needs to rest and disconnect. I understand that, but what will be decided on July 23 will be decisive for Spain over the next decade," he said. (Reporting by Emma Pinedo and Joan Faus; writing by Charlie Devereux; editing by Andrei Khalip and Sriraj Kalluvila) Sony Pictures Writers/producers Phil Lord and Christopher Millers 2018 Oscar-winning Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is one of modern superhero cinemas genuine triumphs, this despite the fact that it helped make the multiversethat dreaded concept which allows for endless reiterations, revisions and rebootsa mainstream staple. There are even more Spider-men, women, children and animals to be found in its follow-up, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, which hits theaters June 2, an overstuffed saga that boasts a heart and flair that only a few of its genre brethren can match. Sending its Brooklyn-native wall-crawler Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) on an odyssey to multiple mirror-image Earths, its a smashing success which proves that a surplus of web-slingersand artistic imaginationis never enough. Setting a new benchmark for diverse, agile, breathtaking animation, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is as striking as non-live-action films come, mixing and matching patterns and palettes to create an awe-inspiringly expressive tapestry of designs and hues. Its models ranging from CGI-traditional to hand-drawn sketchy to cut-and-paste raggedy, directors Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, and Justin K. Thompsons sequel is a multifaceted wonder, and that also goes for the interaction between its foreground figures and background environments, which vary in fashion, vibrancy and focus, frequently assuming a form (say, a dripping watercolor technique for a moving conversation) to match the tenor of a given scene. Additionally embellishing its frame with schizo-computerized effects, comic book panel-esque dialogue boxes, split screens and numerous other flourishes (all of it enhanced by Daniel Pembertons sumptuous score of hip-hop, soul and electronica), its an eruption of dynamic, dexterous aesthetics. Sony Pictures Animation Looks, though, are merely a part of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verses astonishing package. Staging a series of set pieces that are so swift and complex that trying to keep up is its own joy, the film leaves its blockbuster competition in the dust, buried beneath an avalanche of titanic urban-chaos action. The level of detailed planning and unhinged invention that must have gone into concocting these sequences is jaw-dropping. What ultimately matters, however, is the finished product, and what a product it is, with each milieu and chase, skirmish and rescue more distinctive and impressive than the last. Bursting with light, color, movement and madcap energy and humor, as well as shout-outs to just about every preceding Spider-Man iteration (and meme) in history, its a feast for the superheroic senses. Of course, with great stylistic power comes great narrative responsibility. Fortunately, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verses story is up to the challenge. A powerhouse prologue picks up with Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld) as she copes with life back in her universe, where shes a do-gooder wanted for the murder of her friend Peter Parker by her police-captain father George (Shea Whigham). Gwen longs to tell her dad the truth and, just as urgently, to see Miles. During a pivotal confrontation, Gwen is whisked away through a portal by Miguel OHara (Oscar Isaac), a multiverse-traversing Spider-Man 2099 whos aided by a motorcycle-riding Spidey comrade named Jessica Drew (Issa Rae). Yet the discovery of these individualswho are members of an elite Spidey task force charged with keeping the multiverse intactdoesnt quell her loneliness and craving for connection and love. Those feelings are shared by Miles, now a 15-year-old high school sophomore whos grown in size and stature but still misses his dearly departed uncle Aaron (Mahershala Ali), aka the Prowler, and wishes he could reveal his secret identity to his police-officer dad Jefferson (Brian Tyree Henry) and mom Rio (Luna Lauren). His immediate concern, though, is the appearance of the Spot (Jason Schwartzman), a walking Rorschach test whose ink blot holes function as weaponized portalsand, as the villain soon learns, a personal means of traversing the multiverse. Sony Pictures Animation The Spot blames Miles for his monstrous condition and consequently wants vengeance, and Miles efforts to stop him quickly dovetail with his reunion with Gwen and a plummet through all sorts of rabbit holes that take the duo to bustling Mumbattan (where they partner with Karan Sonis narcissistic Indian Spider-Man Pavitr Prabhakar and Daniel Kaluuyas anarchic English Spider-Punk Hobie) and a futuristic Nueva York thats populated solely by Spider-people. Thats simply the outline for an adventure that spans time and space at exhilarating speed and with endless creativity, such that the opening battle between Miles and the Spotin which portals are utilized faster than one can processis infused with more slam-bang ingenuity than most Hollywood tentpoles climaxes. Yet even at its blistering pace, which extends to Lord and Millers trademark rat-a-tat-tat dialogue and onslaught of references and inside jokes, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse always prioritizes its characters emotional and ethical dilemmas. The desire to create ones own story (and establish ones identity) is central to this tale, as is the complicating fact that loss is often an essential (if painful) element of that processa notion that takes on a playful meta dimension once Miles is informed that becoming Spider-Man requires a beloved sacrifice that hes not necessarily willing to make. Sony Pictures Animation Fittingly, considering its multiverse conceit, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is like every Spider-Man saga rolled into one, swinging and zipping its way through scenarios that put a premium on its characters wants, needs and motivations. Its voice cast is second to none, led by Moores juvenile-yet-determined Miles, Steinfelds wounded Gwen, and Jake Johnsons ramshackle, good-hearted Peter B. Parker, who now has his own mini-Spidey in tow. At a robust 136 minutes, the film never shortchanges its myriad players, dispensing fresh backstories and affording everyone personality-defining moments at the same velocity that its good and bad guys spout one-liners. Its edge-of-your-seat big-screen animation of the finest order, pulling ones heartstrings and quickening ones pulse with equal adeptness. Sony Pictures Animation If Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is a cut above the Marvel pack (especially nowadays), it cant help but adhere to one of its predecessors favorite tactics: eschewing satisfying resolution in favor of franchise table-setting. Still, directors Dos Santos, Powers and Thompsons film is such a splendid affair that its cliffhanger ending plays less as a frustrating IP-extension maneuver than as a tantalizing The Empire Strikes Back-style tease. With a verve and wit that would make Stan Lee proud, it not only earns its icons signature adjectivesAmazing! Spectacular! Sensational!but honors, and enhances, his pop-culture legacy. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. In the summer of 2020, amid the cultural reassessment and nationwide protests following the killing of George Floyd, fans of Disneyland's Splash Mountain were put on notice. The 1989 ride, popular for its five-story drop but made infamous by the controversial movie that inspired it, would close. Disney said at the time it wanted a more inclusive concept, one free of association with the racist 1946 film "Song of the South" and its white-centered depiction of slavery and stereotypes. On Tuesday, Disneyland fans gathered in Critter Country to mark the closure of Splash Mountain, which will not reopen with the park on Wednesday. Some cheered as log-shaped cars dropped from the top of the Disney-constructed mountain known as Chickapin Hill, while others, wearing fan-made T-shirts commemorating the day, clutched plushies of the Splash Mountain characters for the ride's mid-fall photo. Most were hopeful for what's to come, an attraction themed to "The Princess and the Frog," the 2009 fairy tale that stars the companys first Black princess. Some, however, were sorrowful that a piece of their childhood would be lost. "I didn't get to go to Disneyland until I was in my teens, and this was one of the first rides I ever rode," said Stefanie Re, 39, who lives near Portland, Ore. Re had come to the Disneyland Resort with custom-made Mickey Mouse ears that referenced the ride and film's song "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah." "It's just a big memory for me. It's something I wanted to achieve as a kid watching the commercials and getting the picture. It's nostalgia. A happy memory." Re was optimistic that "The Princess and the Frog" makeover, known as Tiana's Bayou Adventure and scheduled to open here and at Walt Disney World in 2024, would be "something better." While not everyone shared Re's opinion some wished the ride wasn't changing Splash Mountain's three-year goodbye can't help but feel overdue. Guests ride Splash Mountain at Disneyland. (Associated Press) Splash Mountain was doomed from the start. Times articles from the late 1980s cited Disney spokespeople already trying to justify the attraction, noting that it would skirt controversy by focusing solely on animated scenes and would avoid any references to the Reconstruction-era South. But even at the time of the ride's opening, "Song of the South" was in the Disney vault, kept out of movie theaters and, eventually, off of streaming platforms. Hindsight criticism is always easy, but Splash Mountain will go down in history as a significant miscalculation from Walt Disney Imagineering, the arm of the company devoted to theme park experiences. By 2003, Disney representatives were declining to commit on future releases for "Song of the South." In 2020 Chief Executive Bob Iger called the movie not appropriate in todays world. Splash Mountain also signaled a tentative approach to theme park design, one in which creatives no longer created original projects Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, It's a Small World, Big Thunder Mountain but rather were beholden to film and television intellectual property. Park guests said Tuesday that the ride stands apart from the movie. But Splash Mountain is still a ride in which arguably the most popular song, "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah," has connections to minstrel shows. The two cannot be completely divorced, and the words "Song of the South" are emblazoned on the large, critter-adorned ferry boat in the ride's finale. Splash Mountain was born of another cultural era, its themes chosen in part due to its location in Disneyland which in the late 80s was known as Bear Country and as a way to reuse audio-animatronics from the patriotic America Sings. The end of that era felt relatively subdued Tuesday. Waits around lunch time hit three hours, but for most of the morning the 65-minute posted queue was more like 25 minutes. Disney in the past has attempted to turn ride closures into something of a party, complete with celebratory merchandise, but there were no Splash Mountain trinkets, save for a commemorative coin from a penny-press machine. Although trolls accused Disney of being "woke," the scene Tuesday was quiet except for fan sites setting up livestreaming stations. Work is underway in nearby New Orleans Square to welcome Tiana's Bayou Adventure. New Orleans Squares French Market Cafe is being remade into Tianas Palace. The quick-service dining location, boasting New Orleans staples, will open later this year. Concept art for Tiana's Bayou Adventure shows a more mystical attraction, one that Disney promises will celebrate New Orleans with a tinge of fantasy, courtesy, likely, of Mama Odie, the 200-year-old bayou fairy godmother from the film. The ride will feature a robust number of audio-animatronics Disney has said "dozens," many likely repurposed from "Splash Mountain" to culminate in a giant Mardi Gras musical celebration. "I wish it didn't have to close. I hope what comes next will be fun and enjoyable," said Arielle Lohmeyer, 32, from Salt Lake City. Lohmeyer has loved the attraction since age 6. "I don't think there's anything that could replace it that will ever mean as much to me as Splash Mountain." Famed Disney Imagineer Tony Baxter, known for spearheading Big Thunder Mountain and helping to bring the works of George Lucas into Disney parks, has argued that Disney in the early to mid-80s often was forced to look to the companys deep past for inspiration, as films of the era struggled to resonate with audiences. Splash Mountain follows Br'er Rabbit and his attempts to live a life of bliss while eluding Br'er Fox and Br'er Bear. When Splash Mountain came to life over 30 years ago, the wave of Disney Animation that started with The Little Mermaid had not yet begun, Baxter said in a 2020 news release. New stories would give us characters, music and wonderful places that now reside in the hearts of audiences everywhere." In terms of how Splash Mountain ranks amid the Disney classics, as a pure ride experience I've always found its genius to be in its track layout more than its story, message or heart. There appears to be a light moral center, as Br'er Rabbit, often not at home, is chasing a life of hedonism. His steadfast devotion to a "laughing place" nearly gets him killed, but it's a toss into the briar patch the attraction's five-story drop, said to reach about 40 to 45 mph that saves him in the last moment. A rousing finale among friends and family recenters his priorities. At least that's always been my take. Others may have different interpretations, as the cartoon vignettes are designed to generate laughs more than they are to tell a story. That's all well and good, and Splash Mountain has plenty of details possums, bees, turtles, owls and more, many of them caught in mischief to distract. Once inside the mountain, there's action on nearly all sides of us, including above. Animals sing, play instruments and avoid the rain by sitting under psychedelic mushrooms. Splash Mountain has a dedication to old-fashioned Disney craft, one that puts an emphasis on feeding us dioramas rather than a plot. Yet even so the narrative feels especially loose, in part because tonally the ride shifts suddenly from jovial, free-spirited partying to doom, in the form of vultures who want to put an end to it for no clear reason. But after the thrilling drop, we're back amid a large jamboree. Life is one big guffaw, after all. Along the way the sudden sharp turns obscure many of the ride's lighter drops. Splash Mountain works because it always feels a work of surprise. We never quite can see when the log will lurch forward into a moderate drop. Michael Yip, 26, of San Francisco, said the ride to him has always been about "overcoming my fears" and staying positive. Plus, Yip said, "I love the musical sequences." None of that will go away when Splash Mountain reemerges as Tiana's Bayou Adventure next year. The biggest change is Disney will at long last be rid of this cringe-inducing chapter of its past. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Springfield man indicted on child pornography, sexual exploitation of a child charges Police lights A 36-year-old Springfield man was indicted by a Sangamon County grand jury on six charges of child pornography and two charges of sexual exploitation of a child. Jonathan G. McCune of the 4000 block of Bissell Road pleaded not guilty at a Thursday court hearing. He surrendered to authorities after an arrest warrant was issued. More: SPD Officer Warnisher saves woman from fire at home on North Seventh Street McCune is in custody of the Sangamon County Jail with bond was set at $300,000. In January, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services child abuse hotline received a report of a sexual assault involving a female minor child. The Sangamon County Sheriffs Office, in conjunction with the Sangamon County Child Advocacy Center and DCFS, launched an investigation that uncovered numerous criminal acts involving McCune that occurred over several years. McCune has a Monday court date before Judge Gail Noll. Contact Steven Spearie: 217-622-1788, sspearie@sj-r.com, twitter.com/@StevenSpearie. This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Springfield man faces child pornography and sexual exploitation of a child charges MUNCIE, Ind. A state board on Tuesday revoked all of Muncie Fire Department Captain Troy Dulaney's Indiana firefighting certifications permanently. The action taken by the Indiana Board of Firefighting Standards and Education reported by WTHR-TV in Indianapolis is the most recent response to allegations Dulaney helped MFD recruits cheat on exams to become emergency medical technicians. Dulaney who had already been placed on administrative leave, with pay, by the fire department has 15 days to appeal Tuesday's action. Kraig Kenney, Indiana's state emergency medical services director, recently also rescinded Dulaney's EMS certifications for the next seven years. A investigation recently conducted by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security concluded that Dulaney a city firefighter since 2004 distributed questions and answers from an exam to candidates hoping to become EMTs. More: Cheating scandal puts Muncie Fire Department captain's career in jeopardy He is also a target of a federal lawsuit, filed May 15 by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians, that alleges a "years-long scheme... of cheating on NREMT's examinations that was facilitated by defendant Dulaney." In a statement released last week, Mayor Dan Ridenour said a city firefighter "has clearly been implicated in offering to facilitate EMT trainees in violating ethical test-taking standards." "We are pursuing disciplinary action up to and including termination," the mayor added. The Department of Homeland Security probe concluded the cheating "was initiated by Dulaney, and the students did not ask to be involved in it." However, eight recruits received a censure from the department, were placed on probation for two years and will be required to take the national EMS test again. Douglas Walker is a news reporter at The Star Press. Contact him at 765-213-5851 or at dwalker@muncie.gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Muncie Star Press: Muncie Fire Department captain's firefighting certifications revoked Marilynn Distefano misses feeding the colorful birds in her backyard. These days, she mostly just listens to them through the window of her room in a Fort Myers nursing home, where shes lived since December her latest stop since the state promised to rebuild her hurricane-wrecked home. I miss everything about being at home, and my neighbors, said Distefano, 81. I just want to go home. She cant. As Atlantic hurricane season 2023 opens on Thursday, Distefano is one of thousands of people waiting on the state-run Rebuild Florida program, which was supposed to help low-income residents rebuild their hurricane-ravaged homes. Its been a long wait. Her home wasnt destroyed by Hurricane Ian, which ravaged Southwest Florida last year, but by Irma way back in 2017. The state only got around to demolishing her damaged home in January and its unclear when it might be ready for her to come back. Marilynn Distefano, 81, waits in a Ft. Myers nursing home while the state rebuilds her home, which was destroyed by Hurricane Irma and then further damaged by Hurricane Ian. Rebuild Florida launched in September 2018, a year after Irma hit, with a pitch to help the neediest families repair and rebuild homes damaged by Hurricane Irma. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development gave Florida $615 million specifically to help people like Distefano, low and moderate-income, vulnerable people who may not have had insurance to recover from the storm. According to HUD documents, Florida has spent about 75% of the money it was granted for the home repair program. Floridas Department of Economic Opportunity, which runs Rebuild Florida, told the Miami Herald it has repaired and replaced 3,114 homes. Of that total, 145 have been fully demolished and rebuilt, like Distefano is waiting on. The state has replaced 567 mobile homes and made more minor fixes on 2,402 homes. There are more than 1,000 homes remaining on the states list to fix, including some that are already in the pre-construction process. HUD documents list the projected end date of the program as September 2024 so the pace of progress would have to ramp up to get anywhere close to completing the remaining homes. And by 2025, any unused state funds are due back to the federal government, DEO has previously told other news outlets. Rebuild Florida was a popular program in the wake of Irma, with more than 11,000 initial applicants, and the program paid off for some of them. More than 8,000 homes have received damage assessments, one of the earlier steps in the program, and DEO told the Herald on Wednesday it has helped more than 3,100 homeowners. The state also says it doesnt have enough money left to help the remaining participants, and in December 2022 sent a letter to the federal government asking for more funding to cover nearly 1,000 homes in the pre-construction or construction process and 541 other homes left in limbo. The reality is that there are factors not unique to Florida impacting construction project timelines all over the country. These factors include damage from subsequent storms, a burdened supply chain, ongoing pricing challenges, lack of eligible general contractors and complex permitting processes, DEO Director of Communications Rose Hebert wrote in an email. We know Floridians want to get back into their homes we want Floridians back in their homes as quickly as possible. Frustration over delays Still, many applicants like Distefano feel like theyve been given the run-around by the state. The Miami Herald spoke with nearly a dozen Floridians from several counties who all expressed frustration with the years-long delays in fixing their homes. Some dropped out of the program and moved or sold their homes. Others have spent almost a year waiting in state-funded hotels for their homes to be rebuilt. Some retained lawyers. None wanted to be quoted with their names, for fear of the state further delaying the rebuilding process. One applicant told the Herald they were specifically warned by a Rebuild Florida hot line representative not to talk to politicians or the press about the delays. Getting answers about the program has been difficult and not just for the homeowners. The Miami Herald has been asking Floridas Department of Economic Opportunity about the program, and specifically, how many destroyed houses it had actually rebuilt, since 2020 and has yet to receive a specific answer. Many upset residents told the Herald they had filed official complaints over the program with DEO, sometimes multiple. DEO told the Herald in April it has received 168 complaints about the program. In paperwork for similar grants from previous storms, including Hurricane Michael, DEO made note of how many complaints were received every quarter and provided explanations, responses and resolutions for each one. That information does not appear on Irma reports. The issues with the program could extend beyond Irma. The state of Florida could use the same system to respond to Hurricane Ian, the Category 5 storm that devastated Southwest Florida in September. In March, HUD announced that it plans to give Florida almost $3 billion to recover from Ian, including $910 million directly to DEO. The agency, which oversees the states recovery effort from hurricanes, has yet to publicly release its draft plan for how it plans to spend the money, so its unclear if DEO plans to re-use the Rebuild Florida name or choose a different method or running the rebuild process. So far, despite the years-long delays, the problems with the program have largely flown under the radar. The Herald reached out to a number of elected representatives and experts on disaster rebuilding but they were not monitoring Rebuild Florida. But there is an active Facebook group of applicants complaining out delays and difficulties navigating the process. Running out of money What is clear is that the Floridians waiting for their homes are frustrated, and in Distefanos case, financially imperiled by the delays. Her daughter, Lynne Daus, has been the one dealing with contractors and the state through the Rebuild Florida process on behalf of her mother. Over the years, theyve been shunted from case manager to case manager and gone for months at a time with no update. Daus said she doesnt understand what the holdup is. Wheres the money sitting? Whos got this money? Youve had this money for so long, you cant keep using this excuse. Its going on year five, she said. There has to be some internal bureaucratic issue that we have not been told because this does not make sense. It just doesnt make sense. The wait was so long that some applicants had to ride out Hurricane Ian, which arrived five years after Irma, in temporary housing. Distefano had to evacuate her Fort Myers home for Ian. She stayed with one of her other daughters in Cape Coral, but they lost power and running water as the hurricane raged overhead. Distefano has lingering health problems from surviving breast cancer, and Daus said the combination of high heat and low water sent her mother into kidney failure. She was rushed to the hospital and then to rehabilitation, where she stayed through December. But by the time doctors were ready to release her, she had no home to return to. After years of delays, the contractors hired by Rebuild Florida were finally ready to tear down Distefanos house, which they did in December. They promised Daus it would be built in three months, so she found a nursing home for her mom that Medicaid would cover. Construction workers build the outer walls of Marilynn Distefanos home, which was destroyed by Hurricane Irma in 2017 and is part of the states Rebuild Florida program. By June 1, the start of hurricane season, the home is still not built. Last week, construction finally began, but rebuilding could take three to four more months. Thats left Distefano with a money problem. While staying in the facility, Medicaid takes most of her fixed income to cover costs, leaving her savings account dwindling with each months mortgage, tax and property insurance payment still due on the empty lot that was once her home. Its put my mother in a financial crisis, Daus said. As of June, Daus said Distefano no longer has enough cash to make the monthly payments, and her home is still not finished, putting her at risk of defaulting on her mortgage. Daus started a GoFundMe to raise money, and she and her boyfriend have pledged to cover the payments as long as they can. Im not going to let my mom lose her house, she said. Correction: A version of this story posted online initially incorrectly reported that DEO had not responded to the Heralds questions about Rebuild Florida. DEOs responses have been added to the story. Stepfather pleads in connection with case of toddler's charred remains found in Smyrna A 41-year-old man who was arrested in connection with the death of a 3-year-old girl whose remains were found in a Smyrna softball field pleaded guilty to four counts of endangering the welfare of a child, according to court documents unsealed Wednesday. One of those charges is a felony carrying a prison sentence of up to five years, while the others are misdemeanors each carrying up to one year in prison. Word of Brandon Haas' plea came several days after Delaware Online/The News Journal learned his wife, 31-year-old Kristie Cole Haas, had pleaded guilty to murdering her daughter, Emma Grace Cole. The child's charred remains were found on Sept. 13, 2019, by a person walking their dog at the Little Lass softball fields in Smyrna. The funeral program of Emma Grace Cole sits on an ottoman Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021, inside the home of Tanya Axsom in Bloomington, Ind. Similarly to Kristie Cole Haas, Brandon Haas' plea had not initially been divulged to the public, including numerous family members of the child. More: 'We've all been left out': Family not told prior to toddler's mother taking murder plea The Delaware Department of Justice told Delaware Online/The News Journal on Thursday that the case had been under a gag order that limited the states ability "to discuss sensitive elements of the case, including the existence of a possible plea, with anyone who is not next of kin as defined in the Victims Bill of Rights." Kristie Cole Haas' mother and Emma Grace's grandmother, Belinda Johnson-Hurtado, is considered next of kin. She has custody of Kristie's other three children. In the Thursday morning hearing, Kristie Cole Haas pleaded guilty to murder by abuse or neglect, as well as endangering the welfare of a child and abuse of a corpse. While sentencing will occur at a later date, the plea agreement with the state is that she spends 30 years behind bars before being eligible for release. A judge can, however, give her up to life in prison. Remembering Emma Grace: A passion for Paw Patrol and a persuasive smile Brandon Haas who is not Emma Grace's father was initially charged with endangering the welfare of a child and tampering with evidence following his 2020 arrest. He was released from prison on Oct. 9, 2020, after posting $8,000 bail. A sentencing date for Brandon Haas has not been scheduled. More: Emma Cole's stepdad out on bail as Delaware charges revealed in Smyrna child remains case Contact Esteban Parra at (302) 324-2299 or eparra@delawareonline.com. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Stepdad takes plea in connection with child's remains found in Smyrna Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Its widely known that healthcare is expensive in the United States and that patients are looking for better quality of care that is more cost-effective. That kind of care, called value-based, has been referenced a lot in recent years. Just this week I just wrote about Carrum Healths $45 million Series B investment to offer value-based cancer care. When it comes to your kidneys, Strive Health is working to provide value-based care specifically to the 37 million adults living with chronic kidney disease. Chris Riopelle, co-founder and CEO of Strive Health told TechCrunch that healthcare used to be mainly fee-for-service where the incentive was if you did more work, more reimbursement would come. While that is necessary, important and valuable, it doesn't take into account fee-for-value, which is if you do a lot of good work, you should create a bunch of value and have very high-quality outcomes, Riopelle said. My definition of value-based care is making sure the organizations that are responsible for caring for patients are really focused on the outcomes and the quality that they drive. Over time, that will create more value in the system than just seeing a patient many, many, many times. Strive Health brings value via technology-enabled care interventions and seamless integration with local providers to form an integrated care delivery system that follows a patient from chronic kidney disease to end-stage kidney disease. Simply put, the company takes in patient data and puts it through machine learning programs to identify what stage of kidney disease a patient might be and then be able to predict the probability of the diseases progression. This way, Strive Health can provide what Riopelle called a super targeted intervention. Thats important because of the 37 million Americans that have kidney disease, only 10% are diagnosed and over $400 billion a year is spent on kidney care, he explained. The company launched in April 2020 with 700 patients in St. Louis and since then its value-based care approach has led to an over 20% reduction in the total cost of kidney care and a 42% reduction in hospitalizations. Overall, Strive Health now manages over $2.5 billion of annual medical spending and has grown to 550 employees serving 80,000 patients across 30 states. It also partners with over 600 nephrology providers in 10 states. Strive Health itself has now secured $166 million in Series C funding in a round led by NEA and five new investors, including strategic investor CVS Health Ventures. Joining them in the round were existing investors CapitalG (Alphabet), Echo Ventures, Town Hall Ventures, Ascension Ventures and Redpoint. Riopelle said that Strive Health heard from the investors that it had the right approach to the market. Some competitors are just pursuing health insurance companies as their main customer, while others go after kidney specialists. Strive Health is the only company doing both, he added. Mohamad Makhzoumi, co-president of NEA, agreed with that, saying in a written statement that among value-based care providers, Strive stood out with its proven performance advancing clinical outcomes and simultaneously reducing total cost of care. Meanwhile, Riopelle declined to get specific on the companys revenue growth beyond saying the company has been growing so fast. He also said the companys valuation is strong and healthy for a round this size. He expects to amass 100,000 lives by the end of the year. With this funding, the company intends to invest in technology development and to expand its existing payor, health system, nephrologist and medical group partnerships. It will also expand into new markets and invest in scaling in the 30 states where it already has a presence. So our employees are called Strivers, and our caregivers are called Kidney Heroes, and this funding will allow us to keep bringing on new Strivers and Kidney Heroes, Riopelle said. There are no big acquisition plans, however, we have a strong pipeline and will continue to scale the business and execute that pipeline. Student accused of making threat against Kettering high school released by court A student who was accused of making a threat against an area high school has been released from custody. Kettering Fairmont High School canceled classes on May 9 after a threat was made on social media the night before. Later that afternoon Kettering Police Chief Chip Protsman said a 14-year-old student was accused of making the threat and charged with inducing panic. >> PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 14-year-old appears in court after allegedly making threat against Fairmont High School The motive for that, after our detectives interviewed this young man, was he made the threat because he did not want to attend school today, Protsman said. On May 19, a court decided to release the student to his mother and put him under electronic home monitoring until further notice, according to court records. The student is also restricted from using the internet and social media. He is also ordered to attend, participate and follow all recommendations of counseling. The students next day in court is set for June 13. Students at NC colleges, universities may be able to use ID cards to vote North Carolina colleges and university students may be able to use their IDs to vote. The state board of elections is inviting schools to apply to have their student ID cards accepted at the polls. Those IDs much have the students photo on them. Schools have until June 28 to apply. This will be the first year voter identification is required in North Carolina. PREVIOUS: NC Supreme Court reverses rulings on district maps, voter IDs In April, the states supreme court threw out the previous rulings that said the redistricting maps and voter ID law passed by the Republican legislature were both illegal. The move reversed a trial court decision that struck down the 2018 law. The trial court had ruled that GOP legislators passed the law in part to retain General Assembly control by discouraging Black Democrats from voting in legislative elections. But Associate Justice Phil Berger Jr. wrote, in part, that the trial judges erred in relying on a federal court ruling striking down a 2013 voter ID law as tainted by racial discrimination. Although a federal lawsuit challenging the voter ID law is still pending, the State Board of Elections said that staff would start working toward a smooth rollout of the ID requirement with municipal elections this fall. Voters also previously approved a separate photo voter ID mandate for the state constitution, although that amendment remains stuck in litigation that wouldnt affect the April ruling. The Associated Press contributed to this report. (WATCH BELOW: NC Supreme Court reverses rulings on district maps, voter IDs) The students were able to use diggers and bulldozers on the Daventry building site Engineering students had drone and bulldozer demonstrations at a training facility next to a real construction site to encourage them into the construction industry. The youngsters from Northampton College had the experience as part of ongoing expansion work at the Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT). Industry body Engineering UK said about a quarter of all job vacancies in Britain were engineering-based. Kayleigh Merritt, from construction company Winvic, which was working at DIRFT, said: "Real companies make so much of a difference because they can talk about what they do every day." Kayleigh Merritt from Winvic said schoolchildren should learn more about construction and engineering The BTEC construction students were the first to visit the site in the partnership between Winvic and Northampton College. Ms Merritt, the Northampton-based construction company's talent development manager, said: "It's not simulated. It's not role play. It's not pretend. It's real life. "It's showing them what they [would] do on a day-to-day basis and being there to ask questions about the difficulties and what they enjoy." She said with the use of new technology, such as drones and tablets, "construction is so different to what it used to be 20 years ago". The college students were shown how drones were used on bulding sites Those in the construction industry said demand for engineers would grow over the next five years and there were calls for it to be on the school curriculum. Ms Merritt said: "If we trained children from a young age about the different roles within construction, there would probably be an uptake when they finish their GCSEs." Paul Bailey, from Northampton College, said: "I'm quite passionate about these sort of connections because building is building, but it's moving on in so many of the disciplines with the [new] technology." The construction teacher said visiting the building site and seeing the new technology also "helps me keep updated and it helps convey that within my teaching". Construction and built environment teacher, Paul Bailey, said visits to real building sites helped him and his students keep up with new technology The Department for Education said there were already GCSEs in engineering and electronics available. It added it was also rolling out new T Level qualifications in engineering and manufacturing, establishing 21 institutes of technology to deliver higher-level science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) training. This had involved working with employers to develop more than 350 STEM apprenticeships. Find East of England news on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Got a story? Email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp on 0800 169 1830 Emmanuel Macron The French leader underscored the need for European nations to aid Ukraine in executing an effective counteroffensive. Read also: French Senate recognizes Holodomor as genocide of the Ukrainian people "We need to help Ukraine today with all means to carry out an effective counter-offensive," he said. Its what we are currently doing. We have to intensify our efforts because what will happen in the next few months offers a chance even for a lasting peace. Read also: France to provide Ukraine with missiles to help it resist Russian aggression, says Macron Additionally, Macron said that Western nations should provide tangible and credible security guarantees to Ukraine as it continues to resist Russian aggression That is why Im in favor, and this will be the subject of collective talks in the following weeks to offer tangible and credible security guarantees to Ukraine, the French president said. He stressed that Ukraine is currently defending Europe, and therefore "security guarantees within a multilateral framework" for the country are in the interests of Western states. Read also: French-Italian SAMP-T air defense system arrives in Ukraine On May 23, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Paris is prepared to negotiate with Ukraine on agreements aimed at providing security guarantees to help protect the country in the long term. 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 Jeremy Strongs Kendall almost had a much darker and wetter ending in the Succession finale. The actor, who is known for his intense method acting approach, revealed in a new interview that he tried to jump into a river in the last shot of the wealth satire, which drew to a close after four critically acclaimed seasons on Sky Atlantic on Monday (29 May). Strong, 44, has won two Emmys for his performance since the HBO show began in 2018. Created by Jesse Armstrong (Peep Show), the series is a brutal satire on the uber-rich and follows the heirs to the fictional Waystar Royco media dynasty as they fight over who will replace their father Logan, played by Brian Cox, as head honcho. In the scene that made the edit, Kendall is seen gazing out over a river as his bodyguard Colin (Scott Nicholson) keeps watch behind him. It then cuts to black and the credits roll. But on set, it wasnt that straightforward. The water was calling to me, Strong told Vanity Fair. I tried to go into the water after we cut I got up from that bench and went as fast as I could over the barrier and on to the pilings, and the actor playing Colin raced over. I didnt know I was gonna do that, and he didnt know, but he raced over and stopped me. I dont know whether in that moment I felt that Kendall just wanted to die I think he did or if he wanted to be saved by essentially a proxy of his father. Read a full recap of the brilliant series finale here. The river scene takes place after Kendall finds out that the board have not voted for him to take over the company. To me, what happens at the board vote is an extinction-level event for this character, Strong told Vanity Fair. Theres no coming back from that. Last shot of Jeremy Strongs Kendall in Succession (HBO) The shot of Kendall looking out over the river was a much stronger ending philosophically than him jumping in the water, he said, adding that Kendall is trapped in this sort of silent scream. Speaking on the Succession podcast, Strong also revealed that he actually drank the retch-inducing smoothie that his characters siblings give him in series finale, because he wouldnt know how not to. Strongs approach to acting has made headlines in the past. A now-infamous New Yorker profile with Jeremy Strong revealed the actors extreme dedication to the craft after he told the magazine that he takes his role as Kendall as seriously as his own life, and does not think of Succession as a comedy. Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan rallies his troops battling rival paramilitaries in the capital Khartoum on Tuesday Artillery blasts rang out Wednesday in Khartoum, after the Sudanese army suspended its participation in US and Saudi-brokered ceasefire talks, accusing its paramilitary foes of failing to honour their commitments. The mediators of the talks in the Saudi Red Sea city of Jeddah have acknowledged repeated violations of the truce by both sides but have so far held off imposing any sanctions in the hope of keeping the warring parties at the negotiating table. The army walked out "because the rebels have never implemented a single one of the provisions of a short-term ceasefire which required their withdrawal from hospitals and residential buildings", a Sudanese government official said. It also took the decision because the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had "repeatedly violated the truce", added the official who spoke on condition of anonymity. A witness said there was "heavy artillery fire from army camps" in northern Khartoum on Wednesday, two days after US and Saudi mediators said the warring parties had agreed to extend by five days a humanitarian truce they had frequently violated over the previous week. The mediators admitted the truce had been "imperfectly observed" but said the extension "will permit further humanitarian efforts". But despite the pledges of both sides, fighting flared again on Tuesday both in greater Khartoum and in the flashpoint western region of Darfur. "The army is ready to fight until victory," army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan declared during a visit to troops in the capital. The RSF, led by Burhan's deputy-turned-foe Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, said they would "exercise their right to defend themselves" and accused the army of violating the truce. - Fears of breakdown - Sudan specialist Aly Verjee said the mediators were eager to avoid a complete breakdown of the talks, for fear of a major escalation on the ground. "The mediators know that the situation is bad but they do not want to state that a ceasefire is gone for fear that the situation would then become even worse," said Verjee, a researcher at Sweden's University of Gothenburg. "The hope is that by keeping the parties talking, the prospects of arrangements that are better respected will eventually improve." Since fighting erupted between the rival security forces on April 15, more than 1,800 people have been killed, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. The United Nations says 1.2 million people have been internally displaced and over 425,000 have fled abroad. More than half the population -- 25 million people -- are now in need of aid and protection, the UN says. Entire districts of Khartoum no longer have running water, electricity is only available for a few hours a week, and three quarters of hospitals in combat zones are out of service. - Health facilities out of service - The health ministry said Wednesday that "nine health facilities" had gone out of service in Jazira state, just south of Khartoum, "despite the declared truce". In a statement, the ministry said the closures were due to "the presence of RSF militias threatening the movement of medical personnel and supplies". Many families have continued to hide out in their homes, rationing water and electricity while trying desperately to avoid stray gunfire in the city of more than five million people -- nearly 700,000 of whom have fled, according to the United Nations. In Darfur, on Sudan's western border with Chad, continued fighting "blatantly disregards ceasefire commitments", said Toby Harward, of the UN refugee agency. The persistent fighting has impeded delivery of the aid and protection needed by a record 25 million people, more than half the population, according to the UN. Despite the increasing needs, it says it has only received 13 percent of the $2.6 billion it requires. The UN has warned for weeks that fighting in Darfur's major cities has also drawn in former rebel and militia fighters recruited along ethnic lines during the region's devastating conflict in the mid-2000s. Darfur's pro-army governor Mini Minawi, a former rebel leader, has urged citizens to "take up arms" to defend their property. Sudan could descend into "total civil war", warned the Forces for Freedom and Change, the main civilian bloc ousted from power by Burhan and Daglo in a 2021 coup before the two men fell out. bur/hj/kir/dv Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan rallies his troops battling rival paramilitaries in the capital Khartoum on Tuesday The Sudanese army has suspended its participation in US- and Saudi-brokered ceasefire talks with its paramilitary foes, a government official told AFP on Wednesday. The army took the decision "because the rebels have never implemented a single one of the provisions of a short-term ceasefire which required their withdrawal from hospitals and residential buildings, and have repeatedly violated the truce", the Sudanese official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. US and Saudi mediators said late Monday that the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had agreed to extend by five days a humanitarian truce they had frequently violated over the previous week. But despite their pledges, fighting flared again on Tuesday both in greater Khartoum and in the flashpoint western region of Darfur. "The army is ready to fight until victory," army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan declared during a visit to troops in the capital Tuesday. The RSF, led by Burhan's deputy-turned-foe Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, said they will "exercise their right to defend themselves" and accused the army of violating the truce. Since fighting erupted between the rival security forces on April 15, more than 1,800 people have been killed, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. The United Nations says more than a million people have been internally displaced and nearly 350,000 have fled abroad, including over 170,000 to Egypt. More than half the population -- 25 million people -- are now in need of aid and protection, the UN says. Entire districts of Khartoum no longer have running water, electricity is only available for a few hours a week, and three quarters of hospitals in combat zones are out of service. Sudan could descend into "total civil war", warned the Forces for Freedom and Change, the main civilian bloc ousted from power by Burhan and Daglo in a 2021 coup before the two men fell out. bur/hj/kir/fz Coming of age brings new challenges for central characters who are discovering their own sexuality. Chris Hackett via Getty Images In recognition of LGBT Pride Month, The Conversation reached out to Jonathan Alexander an English professor with a scholarly interest in the interplay between sexuality and literature for recommendations of young adult fiction books that feature LGBTQ characters. What follows is a list that Alexander, who has just stepped down as the childrens and young adult fiction section editor for the Los Angeles Review of Books, considers as must-reads for this summer. 1. Darius the Great Is Not Okay Darius the Great Is Not Okay by Adib Khorram. Penguin Random House Written by Adib Khorram, Darius the Great Is Not Okay is told from the perspective of a Persian American teen battling an anxiety disorder while navigating the complexities of growing up in a culturally mixed household. Darius parents an Iranian immigrant mother and a white father are kind and sympathetic, even as they are dealing with their own issues, including the dads struggle with mental health issues and the mothers attempt to maintain family relations with relatives in a country that is not only halfway around the world but whose government is viewed with suspicion by many Americans. Still, Darius family pulls together, even making a trip to Iran to visit relatives. While there, Darius learns about his cultural background as Persian, makes a lifelong friend in an Iranian cousin, and considers his own sexuality. He might be gay. How will that complicate his life? Khorram beautifully handles the challenges and pleasures of growing up in a culturally mixed but rich and loving household while also dealing with mental health challenges and identity exploration. And there are a lot of sweet touches throughout, including a love of tea and Star Trek. Highly recommended for its sensitivity and authenticity. 2. Lark & Kasim Start a Revolution Lark & Kasim Start a Revolution by Kacen Callender. Abrams Books Kacen Callender, whose groundbreaking Felix Ever After delighted readers with its tale of a Black trans boy learning how to navigate being in and out of love, returns with a new book just as compellingly real. Lark and Kasim are old friends whose relationship has seen better days. Lark is working hard at being a writer while also trying to help Kasim figure out how to handle the complexities of living at least part of their young lives in the shadows of social media. Ultimately, the book is as much about forging friendships and learning how to handle their evolution as about crushes and teen love. With richly drawn nonbinary and queer characters, Lark & Kasim Start a Revolution joins Callenders previous award-winning books in contributing beautifully written and deeply imagined Black, queer and trans characters that readers of all kinds will come to love. 3. Last Night at the Telegraph Club Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo. Penguin Random House Malinda Los National Book Award-winning novel is set in mid-20th-century San Francisco, in a Chinese American immigrant community in which Lily Hu has to learn to deal with racism, the Red Scare and the possibility that she might be a lesbian. A masterwork of historical young adult literature, Last Night at the Telegraph Club introduces readers to how lesbian communities formed and thrived even during some of the most repressive and homophobic moments in U.S. history. Los novel joins her previous works, such as the groundbreaking Ash, a retelling of Cinderella from a lesbian perspective, in creating exciting and affirming work for young queer readers, as well as for anyone who cares for those questioning their sexuality and sense of belonging in the world. 4. Cafe Con Lychee Cafe Con Lychee by Emery Lee. Harper Collins Publishers Emery Lees delicious novel centers on the rivalry between an Asian American cafe and a Puerto Rican bakery in a small Vermont town with both eateries facing competition from a new fusion restaurant that has just opened. The families that own the cafes each have a young son working in them Theo and Gabi, respectively who have to learn to overcome their own rivalry and help their families survive the precarities of operating a business in a world of cutthroat capitalism. Cafe Con Lychee shows how love survives economic challenges and family foibles as the two young men move from rivalry to romance. A sweet and nourishing tale, the book offers readers a relatable glimpse into making it and making out during a time of economic upheaval. 5. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz. Simon & Schuster I want to conclude this years summer reading list with an older work Benjamin Alire Saenzs still beautiful, still vital and still very necessary paean to young gay love. Ari and Dante, from two different walks of life, learn to find love and self-acceptance in this beautifully written book. At the start of the book, Ari is dealing with family trouble, including a brother in prison, and Dante is perhaps a bit too smart for his own good. The two meet at a swimming pool one summer, setting the stage for a steamy exploration of friendship that might turn into something more. If you havent read Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe, catch up this summer with this classic of contemporary LGBTQ young adult fiction, and then check out its recently published sequel, Aristotle and Dante Dive Into the Waters of the World. Happy reading! This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. Like this article? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter. It was written by: Jonathan Alexander, University of California, Irvine. Read more: Jonathan Alexander 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. What is superintelligence? How AI could wipe out humanity and why the boss of ChatGPT is doomsday prepping A backlit owl egg almost ready to hatch (National Centre for Birds of Prey/ Screengrab) In the Unfinished Fable of the Sparrows, a group of small birds come up with a plan to capture an owl egg and raise the chick as their servant. How easy life would be, they say, if the owl could work for them, and they could live a life of leisure. Despite warnings from members of their flock that they should first figure out how to tame an owl before they raise one, the sparrows devote all their efforts to capturing an egg. This tale, as its title suggests, does not have an ending. Its author, Swedish philosopher Nick Bostrom, deliberately left it open-ended as he believes that humanity is currently in the egg hunting phase when it comes to superhuman AI. In his seminal work on artificial intelligence, titled Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies, the Oxford University professor posits that AI may well destroy us if we are not sufficiently prepared. Superintelligence, which he describes as an artificial intelligence that greatly exceeds the cognitive performance of humans in virtually all domains of interest, may be a lot closer than many realise, with AI experts and leading industry figures warning that it may be just a few years away. Last week, OpenAI boss Sam Altman, whose company created ChatGPT, echoed Professor Bostroms 2014 book by warning that the seemingly exponential progress of AI technology in recent years means that the imminent arrival of superintelligence is inevitable and we need to start preparing for it before its too late. On Tuesday, he was among other notable signatories of a statement warning that mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war. Mr Altman, whose companys AI chatbot is the fastest growing app in history, has previously described Professor Bostroms book as the best thing Ive seen on this topic. Just a year after reading it, Mr Altman co-founded OpenAI alongside other similarly worried tech leaders like Elon Musk and Ilya Sutskever in order to better understand and mitigate against the risks of advanced artificial intelligence. Initially launched as a non-profit, OpenAI has since transformed into arguably the leading private AI firm and potentially the closest to achieving superintelligence. Mr Altman believes superintelligence has the potential to not only offer us a life of leisure by doing the majority of our labour, but also holds the key to curing diseases, eliminating suffering and transforming humanity into an interstellar species. Any attempts to block its progress, he wrote this week, would be unintuitively risky and would require something like a global surveillance regime that would be virtually impossible to implement. the future can be so good that it's hard for any of us to imagine. my basic take on this is that we will have 'unlimited' intelligence and energy, and all that will unlock. but the risks grow with the upside. Sam Altman (@sama) May 1, 2022 It is already difficult to understand what is going on inside the mind of AI tools currently available, but once superintelligence is achieved, even its actions may become incomprehensible. It could make discoveries that we would be incapable of understanding, or take decisions that make no sense to us. The biological and evolutionary limitations of brains made of organic matter mean we may need some form of brain-computer interface in order to keep up. Being unable to compete with AI in this new technological era, Professor Bostrom warns, could see humanity replaced as the dominant lifeform on Earth. The superintelligence may then see us as superfluous to its own goals. If this happens, and some form of AI has figured out how to hijack all the utilities and technology we rely upon or even the nuclear weapons we possess then it would not take long for AI to wipe us off the face of the planet. A more benign, but similarly bleak, scenario is that the gulf in intelligence between us and the AI will mean it views us in the same way we view animals. In a 2015 conversation between Mr Musk and scientist Neil deGrasse Tyson, they theorised that AI will treat us like a pet labrador. Theyll domesticate us, Professor Tyson said. Theyll keep the docile humans and get rid of the violent ones. In an effort to prevent this outcome, Mr Musk has dedicated a portion of his immense fortune towards funding a brain chip startup called Neuralink. The device has already been tested on monkeys, allowing them to play video games with their minds, and the ultimate goal is to transform humans into a form of hybrid superintelligence. (Critics note that even if successful, the technology would similarly create a two-tiered society of the chipped, and the chipless.) Elon Musk claims Neuralinks brain chip technology will give users enhanced abilities' (Neuralink) Since cutting ties with OpenAI, the tech billionaire has issued several warnings about the imminent emergence of superintelligence. In March, he joined more than 1,000 researchers in calling for a moratorium on the development of powerful AI systems for at least six months. That time should then be spent researching AI safety measures, they wrote in an open letter , in order to avert disaster. It would take an improbable consensus of leading AI companies around the world, the majority of which are all profit-seeking, in order for any such pause to be impactful. And while OpenAI continues to spearhead the hunt for the owls egg, Mr Altman appears to have at least heeded the warnings from Professor Bostroms fable. In a 2016 interview with the New Yorker, he revealed that he is a doomsday prepper specifically for an AI-driven apocalypse. I try not to think about it too much, he said, revealing that he has guns, gold, potassium iodide, antibiotics, batteries, water [and] gas masks stashed away in a hideout in rural California. Not that any of that will be much use to the rest of us. This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows the Zheng He Monument in Salalah, Oman. (Xinhua/Wang Qiang) SALALAH, Oman, May 31 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in Oman hosted on Tuesday night a completion ceremony for the Zheng He Monument in the coastal city of Salalah in Dhofar Governorate to commemorate the great Chinese mariner who once traveled to the coast of Oman as well as the traditional friendship between the two countries. Chinese Ambassador to Oman, Li Lingbing, delivered a speech at the ceremony, stating that Oman is an important country along the ancient Maritime Silk Road, and the protagonist of this monument, Zheng He, a Chinese navigator of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), visited Oman, including Dhofar, four times. Li said that as this year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the completion of the Zheng He Monument at this momentous historical occasion holds special significance. It is believed that this unique landmark building will become a new symbol of the continued advancement of China-Oman friendship in the new era, she said, adding that it will witness the continuous enhancement of mutual understanding and exchanges in various fields between China and Oman, and contribute to the construction of a community of shared future with mutual benefit and common development, bringing greater benefits to the peoples of both countries. Khalid bin Salim al Saeedi, chairman of the Oman-China Friendship Association, said in his speech that the Zheng He Monument clearly demonstrates the long-standing and uninterrupted exchanges between the civilizations of Oman and China. The wise leaders of both countries have been committed to the development and growth of bilateral relations in various fields. Zheng is widely recognized as one of the most accomplished seafarers in Chinese history. He commanded the massive Ming Dynasty fleets to embark on seven expeditionary voyages to Southeast Asia, South Asia, West Asia, and East Africa during the 15th century. Designed by the Beijing Institute of Architectural Design, the monument draws inspiration from the graceful ocean waves and the bow of a ship, capturing the dynamic curves that vividly portray Zheng's fleet triumphantly sailing through wind and waves. Notably, the construction of the monument employed cutting-edge 3D printing technology, executed by the China Communications Construction Company. The site chosen for the Zheng He Monument is in the core area of the national-level coastal traditional culture, tourism, and business district developed by the Dhofar Governorate. The monument will serve as a permanent landmark for Salalah. China and Oman established a strategic partnership in 2018 and signed cooperation agreements under the Belt and Road Initiative. This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows the Zheng He Monument in Salalah, Oman. (Xinhua/Wang Qiang) This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows the Zheng He Monument in Salalah, Oman. (Xinhua/Wang Qiang) This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows the Zheng He Monument in Salalah, Oman. (Xinhua/Wang Qiang) Chinese Ambassador to Oman, Li Lingbing, delivers a speech at a completion ceremony for the Zheng He Monument in Salalah, Oman, May 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Qiang) This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows a completion ceremony for the Zheng He Monument in the coastal city of Salalah in Dhofar Governorate, Oman. The Chinese Embassy in Oman hosted on Tuesday night a completion ceremony for the Zheng He Monument in the coastal city of Salalah in Dhofar Governorate to commemorate the great Chinese mariner who once traveled to the coast of Oman as well as the traditional friendship between the two countries. (Xinhua/Wang Qiang) Odia Kaba works from home in Ypsilanti, Mich., Tuesday, May 23, 2023. Growing up in Ann Arbor, there was an expectation that Odia would attend the University of Michigan. When her application was deferred, she started at Eastern Michigan with plans to transfer to Ann Arbor her sophomore year. But she was getting daily texts from her sister, who attended U-M, describing the microaggressions she faced as a Black student on campus. Kaba stayed at Eastern Michigan and graduated with a degree in quantitative economics. Even though it's a mostly white campus, Kaba said she found pockets of diversity that helped make her comfortable.(AP Photo/Paul Sancya) WASHINGTON (AP) As an alternative to affirmative action, colleges from California to Florida have tried a range of strategies to achieve the diversity they say is essential to their campuses. Many have given greater preference to low-income families. Others started admitting top students from every community in their state. But after years of experimentation often prompted by state-level bans on considering race in admissions theres no clear solution. In states requiring race-neutral policies, many colleges have seen enrollment drops among Black and Hispanic students, especially at selective colleges that historically have been mostly white. Now, as the Supreme Court decides the fate of affirmative action, colleges nationwide could soon face the same test, with some bracing for setbacks that could erase decades of progress on campus diversity. A ruling is expected by the end of June. At Amherst College, officials have estimated that going entirely race-neutral would reduce Black, Hispanic and Indigenous populations by half. We fully expect it would be a significant decrease in our population, said Matthew McGann, Amherst's director of admission. Facing a conservative Supreme Court that appeared skeptical from the start, colleges have been preparing for a rollback. Some are considering adding more essays to get a better picture of an applicants background. Others are planning to boost recruiting in racially diverse areas, or admit more transfer students from community colleges. The court took up affirmative action in response to challenges at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina. Lower courts upheld admission systems at both schools, rejecting claims that the schools discriminated against white and Asian-American applicants. Meanwhile, other schools have been taking lessons from colleges that dont consider race. Nine states previously banned affirmative action, starting with California in 1996 and most recently Idaho in 2020. After Michigan voters rejected it in 2006, the University of Michigan shifted attention to low-income students. It sent graduates to work as counselors in low-income high schools. It started offering college prep in Detroit and Grand Rapids. It offered full scholarships for low-income Michigan residents. More recently, it started accepting fewer early admission applications, which are more likely to come from white students. Despite those efforts, the university offers itself as a cautionary tale. The share of Black and Hispanic undergraduates hasnt fully rebounded from a falloff after 2006. And while Hispanic enrollments have been increasing, Black enrollments continued to slide, going from 8% of undergraduates in 2006 to 4% now. The campus is drawing more low-income students, but that hasnt translated to racial diversity, said Erica Sanders, the director of undergraduate admissions at Michigan. Socioeconomic status is not a proxy for race, Sanders said. At the same time, some of Michigan's less selective colleges have fared better. At nearby Eastern Michigan University, the number of students of color increased, reflecting demographic shifts in the state. It illustrates what experts say is a chilling effect seen most acutely at selective colleges students of color see fewer of their peers at places like Ann Arbor, prompting them to choose campuses that appear more welcoming. Growing up in Ann Arbor, there was an expectation that Odia Kaba would attend the University of Michigan. When her application was deferred, she started at Eastern Michigan with plans to transfer to Ann Arbor her sophomore year. By then, Kaba was getting daily texts from her sister, who attended U-M, describing the microaggressions she faced as a Black student on campus. Rooms went silent when she walked in. She was ignored in group projects. She felt alone and suffocated. Why would I go to U of M? Kaba, 22, remembers thinking. I'm just going to be stuck with people that don't look like me, can't relate to me, and with no way to escape it. Kaba stayed at Eastern Michigan and graduated with a degree in quantitative economics this year. Even though it's a mostly white campus, Kaba said she found pockets of diversity that helped make her comfortable. I'm in economics, which is a white male-dominated space. But I can walk out of the classroom and be surrounded by my people, and I just feel safe," she said. The University of California saw similar enrollment slides after a statewide ban in 1996. Within two years, Black and Hispanic enrollments fell by half at the systems two most selective campuses, Berkeley and UCLA. The system would go on to spend more than $500 million on programs aimed at low-income and first-generation college students. The system also started a program that promises admission to the top 9% of students in each high school across the state, an attempt to reach strong students from all backgrounds. A similar promise in Texas has been credited for expanding racial diversity, and opponents of affirmative action cite it as a successful model. In California, the promise drew students from a wider geographic area but did little to expand racial diversity, the system said in a brief to the Supreme Court. It had almost no impact at Berkeley and UCLA, where students compete against tens of thousands of other applicants. Today at UCLA and Berkeley, Hispanic students make up 20% of undergraduates, higher than in 1996 but lower than their 53% share among California's high school graduates. Black students, meanwhile, have a smaller presence than they did in 1996, accounting for 2% of undergraduates at Berkeley. Opponents of affirmative action say some states have fared well without it. After Oklahoma outlawed the practice in 2012, the states flagship university saw no long-term severe decline in minority enrollments, the state's attorney general told the Supreme Court. It pointed to a recent freshman class at the University of Oklahoma that had more Hispanic, Asian and Native American students than in 2012. The share of Black students fell, but it wasnt far from flagship universities in other states that allow affirmative action, the state said. Still, many colleges expect racial diversity could take a hit. If affirmative action is struck down, colleges fear they will unknowingly admit fewer students of color. In the long run, it can be self-perpetuating if numbers fall, the campus can appear less attractive to future students of color. That's a problem, colleges say, because racial diversity benefits the entire campus, exposing students to other worldviews and preparing them for a diverse workforce. We need to make sure were sending the message that were committed to diversity, independent of what the court does, said Doug Christiansen, dean of admissions at Vanderbilt University. The stakes are high for colleges like Vanderbilt, where Black students make up 9% of the student body, more than most highly selective colleges. But the school isnt planning a major shift in strategy. Instead, it plans to build on efforts to recruit in diverse areas and expand its outreach. In some ways, colleges have been preparing for an end to affirmative action since earlier legal challenges, Christiansen said. These are things weve had to think about for quite some time, he said. Beyond race, the decision has the impact to reshape other admissions policies. To draw more underserved populations, experts say colleges may need to do away with policies that advantage white students, from legacy preferences and early admission to standardized test scores. At Amherst, officials ended legacy preferences in 2021 and expanded financial aid. The college is looking for ways to sustain its diversity, but officials say options are limited. I dont know if theres going to be some terrific innovation, McGann said. If a school had figured it out, they would be doing it already. ___ The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content. James Devaney/WireImage/Getty Sorrythe title reference here was just too easy. After several years away from the Sex and the City universe, Kim Cattrall will reprise the role of Samantha Jones for a cameo in the Max revival series And Just Like That. Variety reports that Cattrall will appear as the iconically saucy publicist in the sequel series Season 2 finale, for one scene and one scene only. And itll be a phone conversationmeaning Cattrall did not film with her former co-star Sarah Jessica Parker, with whom shes publicly feuded for years. Sources tell Variety that Cattrall shot her dialogue on March 22 in New York City, without seeing or speaking with the stars of the series, including Sarah Jessica Parker, or with And Just Like That showrunner Michael Patrick King. Cattralls representative did not respond to Varietys request for comment; Max did not immediately respond. It Became Mean Girls: Inside Sarah Jessica Parker and Kim Cattralls Ugly Sex and the City Feud Both Parker and Cattrall have addressed their feud over the years; as recently as last year, SJP said she wished people would stop referring to it as an argument or catfight. As she put it, There has been one person talking. For her part, Cattrall said last year that she was never asked to be part of And Just Like That after she announced in 2016 that she had no interest in reprising her role. I was never asked to be part of the reboot, Cattrall told Variety last spring. I made my feelings clear after the possible third movie, so I found out about it like everyone else didon social media. Meanwhile, Cattralls absence from And Just Like That has hung over the series from its very inception. Some critics (including yours truly) wondered how one can make a Sex and the City revival without the most sexually liberated character in the bunch. Samantha wasnt completely cut out, thoughSeason 1 ended with a text conversation between her and Parkers Carrie Bradshaw, in which they agreed to reconcile. (Samantha apparently lives the posh life in London these days.) Now, however, it seems Sex and the City fans will get at least a small dose of Samantha Jones. And if thats not enough, you can always catch Cattrall on her upcoming Netflix series Glamorouswhich, in a hilarious twist of fate, is slated to debut on June 22, the same day as And Just Like Thats Season 2 premiere. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Norton police search the eastbound section of Interstate 76 on May 17 following a fatal road rage shooting. Police have arrested a suspect in the May 17 road rage shooting that left an Akron man dead on Interstate 76 in Norton. Members of the Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team and the Columbus Police Departments SWAT Team on Wednesday arrested Dacarrei Tovon Kinard, 30, of Columbus. A warrant for Kinards arrest on a murder charge was issued Wednesday after the Norton Police Department identified him as the suspect in the shooting of George Jenson, 40, who was driving home from his job in Wadsworth. Norton police did not return calls seeking comment Wednesday and have not answered media questions since the shooting. No court information for Kinard had been posted in Barberton Municipal Court as of late Wednesday. What we know: Norton police found 8 bullets after road rage death on I-76 An earlier Norton news release said there appeared to be a road rage incident between Jensen and another driver in a black 2018 or newer Chevy Camaro as the two traveled on I-76, and the driver of the Camaro fired multiple gunshots toward Jensen's car as it drove past. A police officer approaches the bullet-riddled car of George Jensen on May 17 along I-76 in a still image from body camera footage released by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. An initial incident report said police spoke to five witnesses and recovered eight .40 caliber shell casings and eight bullet slugs at the scene: two from outside the vehicle, four from Jensen's car and two from his body's shoulder and knee. Northern Ohio U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott stated, The Norton Police Department worked nonstop to gather information, follow up on tips from the public, and ultimately make an identification for this suspect. After the warrant for Kinards arrest was issued Wednesday morning, Norton police, who are members of the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force, provided information to Columbus police, where Kinard was suspected to be living. A photo of George "Geo" Jensen, who was shot and killed in a road rage incident May 17 on I-76 in Norton. Jensen's wife, Allison Kee-Jensen, said Norton police detectives were not able to give her all the details while they were in Columbus on Wednesday afternoon. She said they planned to speak with her Wednesday night. "The detectives are gonna stop by probably later and communicate what they learned," she said. "They were on their way to Columbus and they had some additional warrants that they're serving for some more information." She said she hasn't been able to return to work since the death, but had little to say about her feelings regarding the arrest. "I'm going to wait for due process to happen," she said. "I'm not going to get all excited. I'm trying to let the let the process do its thing." Kinard had previously served time in prison, having been sentenced in Franklin County to four years in 2013 on a third-degree felony count of theft, according to records. No violent offenses were immediately found in a records search by the Beacon Journal. Who was George Jensen? George Jensen was on his way home from work in Wadsworth. His wife, Allison, said she suspected something was wrong when her husband didn't return to their Akron home at the usual time, saying he always came straight home after work. Scott Keenan, a co-worker of George Jensen's at ECS Tuning, was also worried and made calls to area law enforcement agencies and hospitals. Keenan, who had been best friends with George since they were 9, said Jensen was dedicated to his work and was a gifted systems engineer. Who was George Jensen?: 'It wasn't right what happened to him,' wife said of Akron man killed in road rage shooting "He was staunchly opposed to gun violence," Keenan said. "He was alarmed at the mass shooting incidents all around the country." Allison Jensen said her husband was the oldest of three children. They celebrated their 13th anniversary in October and met 18 years ago at a concert. She said the person who shot her husband should be held accountable. "I am not here for (any) revenge fantasies I just want justice," Allison Jensen said. "I want him to be tried like anyone else." What happened during the road rage shooting in Norton? A caller who reported the incident to 911 operators last week said he witnessed some of what happened. "I think he's been shot," the caller can be heard saying to others on the scene as the dispatcher answered the phone. The caller then described what he saw. 911 calls give some context: Cars swerved back and forth before Norton road rage killing; city to give update Thursday "I believe there were two cars going back and forth with each other, and I think the guy got shot ... he hit the wall. He swerved right, he swerved left," the caller said. "There were two cars going back and forth, and this guy was trying to pass and I don't know ... This guy, he's not going to make it." The 911 recording was provided by Southwest Summit Communications, which serves Barberton, Norton, Copley and Springfield Township. Cases on the rise in Ohio: Road rage has been elevated in Ohio for 3 years, Highway Patrol says Reporters Alan Ashworth, Eric Marotta and Emily Mills contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Norton road rage shooting: Dacarrei Tovon Kinard arrested as suspect Suspect in Sacramento State sex assaults returns to US to appear in court, FBI says A wanted fugitive extradited from Germany returned to Sacramento County on Tuesday to face sexual assault charges. Nida Muhammad Niazy, 32, allegedly sexually assaulted two people on and near the Sacramento State campus last fall, according to law enforcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation said he would appear before Sacramento County Superior Court following extradition. Niazy was wanted in connection with two incidents in which university police said he would meet the victims on campus and tell them he was a Sacramento State student. The first sexual assault occurred Aug. 21 near the campus, and the second occurred Sept. 18 on campus, according to Sacramento State Police Chief Chet Madison. Each assault was reported roughly a month after they occurred. According to authorities, Niazy boarded a commercial flight from San Francisco to Switzerland on Nov. 5 after which the FBI obtained a federal arrest warrant in December. Niazy was apprehended in Germany by local authorities with the assistance of FBI agents and Interpol in February. He is expected to be arraigned Thursday. The FBI is eager to help our law enforcement partners ensure those accused of crimes can and will answer to charges, despite their efforts to flee, said Sean Ragan, a special agent of the FBIs Sacramento Field Office, in a news release. We thank our international partners and the FBI International Operations Division for assisting us with our effort to apprehend Mr. Niazy. Niazys return to face prosecution is funded by Project Welcome Home, a federal program that aids the transportation of federal fugitives to the United States. The Sacramento State Police Department and Sacramento County Sheriffs Department investigated the assaults, and the Sacramento County District Attorneys Office is prosecuting the case, according to the FBI. His bail was set at $700,000. Sacramento State officials adopted an action plan in January to address sexual violence and support campus safety measures following the fall semesters sexual assault reports. Cases seeking information from the public, including fugitive matters, are posted on the FBI Sacramento Field Offices Most Wanted page and the FBI Most Wanted app. The FBI said anyone with information should contact their local FBI office, U.S. embassy or submit information online at tips.fbi.gov. Suspect steals school bus near Cincinnati, leads police on chase through Indiana A man was arrested after police said he led officers on a chase through multiple counties Tuesday. At around 10:15 a.m. Indiana State Polices Versailles post was contacted by Ohio authorities who said a school bus had been stolen from the Cincinnati area and was heading toward Ripley County, Indiana, according to a media release. A Batesville officer and two state troopers saw the bus and followed it as it entered Decatur County, Indiana. Troopers attempted to stop the bus but said the suspect driver, identified as Chad Avery Murdock, 32, of Cincinnati, did not stop and continued to drive away from officers. >> Man accused in deadly Moraine hit-and-run indicted on charges Troopers said the bus went off-road into numerous fields and yards. Officers were able to deploy a device that deflated the bus tires and around 11:15 a.m. boxed in the bus as it drove into a field in Shelby County, Indiana. Murdock was taken into custody. He was taken to Decatur County Jail where he was charged with resisting law enforcement, criminal recklessness with a vehicle, possession of stolen property and criminal mischief. The Syrian refugee who became mayor of a German village Ryyan Alshebl arrived in Germany eight years ago as a refugee Ryyan Alshebl fled war-torn Syria in 2015, arriving on the Greek island of Lesbos after a harrowing four-hour journey on a rubber boat. Eight years on, he is the mayor of a German village. "It was dark and cold and there was not a single light to be seen on Lesbos," he recalls. "A few hours ago we had been in a normal Mediterranean town in Turkey. The environment had transformed with the cold and dark, and of course the feelings of fear that go with such a journey." Alshebl, then barely 21, was among a huge wave of refugees who arrived in Europe that year. After landing in Greece, he made his way through Macedonia, Serbia and Croatia by public transport and on foot, taking 12 days in total to reach Germany. He eventually ended up at a refugee centre at Althengstett, a rural region near the Black Forest. "In the shared accommodation, where you cannot expect more than a bed, a roof and some food, for which you are still thankful, you can only do one thing: get back on your feet quickly and invest rapidly in your own future," he said. Alshebl soon learned to speak German fluently -- "if you are in the countryside you have no other choice" -- and landed a traineeship as an administrative assistant at Althengstett town hall. He earned German citizenship in 2022, a prerequisite for anyone who wants to stand in local elections in Germany. - 'Taking responsibility' - Now 29, he will take up his post as mayor of Ostelsheim, a village near Althengstett, in June. He is believed to be the first Syrian from the wave of refugees who arrived in Germany in 2015-16 to be elected to a political post. Alshebl was joined by four friends on his journey to Europe. But he left behind his parents and one brother, though a second brother had already moved to Germany on a student visa. He said his experience of fleeing Syria and having "to take responsibility not only for (myself) but also for the environment" had given him the drive to go into politics. "To take on this responsibility at such an age, you learn a lot. Of course, it creates a new person, a new personality," he said. Alshebl ran as an independent candidate in the election, winning 55.41 percent of the vote. But he is also a member of the Greens, "because climate protection is very important" to him. His victory is all the more striking given that Ostelsheim, a village of 2,700 people, is a traditionally conservative community. Situated among a cluster of hills, the village is surrounded by rolling fields lined with dry stone walls and hedges. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party harnessed anger over the influx of asylum seekers in 2015-16 to win votes and ultimately enter parliament for the first time. - Openness - But Alshebl said he has not seen right-wing extremism personally. Alshebl believes he was elected because he listened to the people's concerns -- from childcare to digitalisation issues. He admits to not really "feeling anything" on hearing he had won the election in March as he was "overwhelmed". But as congratulations poured in from around the world, it became clear that his story was "bigger than a mayoral election in a small community". Alshebl believes the fact he triumphed against two other local candidates who grew up in the area says a lot about the mentality of the voters. "It is a sign that people did not count the origin, but the qualifications. It is a sign of openness to the world," he said. Alshebl's parents, a schoolteacher and an agricultural engineer, belong to Syria's Druze minority, but he describes himself as not religious. He has "mixed feelings" about Syria, which he has not been able to visit since living in Germany. "It is the country where you were born and raised... You long for the people you grew up with," he said. "But I am happy that I got this chance to live here at all" when others have not, he said. fec/hmn/jm Taiwan has received a shipment of Stinger missiles and other military equipment originally approved in 2019, as the U.S. works to fulfill a backlog of nearly $19 billion in weapons sales to the island democracy. A State Department spokesperson told The Hill on Wednesday that reports of Stinger missiles arriving in Taipei last week were related to a $223.56 million weapons sale initially approved in July 2019. That weapons sale included more than 250 Stinger missiles an anti-aircraft weapon favored for its light weight and capability to be fired from a soldiers shoulder, which has proven to be a favored weapon for Ukrainian forces battling Russian aggression. The English-language Taipei Times reported on May 27 that a batch of Stinger missiles arrived in Taipei from the U.S., citing a report in the Chinese-language United Daily News. While Taiwans Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said earlier this month that President Biden is expected to announce the first tranche of a $1 billion weapons transfer to Taiwan directly from Department of Defense stockpiles and approved by Congress for 2023 the State Department spokesperson said the Stingers that arrived in Taiwan are related to the earlier approved arms sale. In 2019, we notified a proposed [Foreign Military Sale] case to TECRO [Taipei Economic And Cultural Representative Office In The United States] for this system, the spokesperson said. As such, this case predates authorities included in Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act (TERA) as incorporated into the FY23 National Defense Authorization Act. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have pushed the Biden administration to find solutions to the $19 billion backlog in defense deliveries, which U.S. officials say are related to ongoing COVID-19 supply chain issues and production lines that have gone dormant. The U.S. and Taiwan are alarmed that Chinese aggression towards the autonomous, island-democracy that Beijing claims as part of its territory is a prelude to a wider conflict and are working to outfit the island with defense capabilities they say will deter a Chinese invasion. China regularly violates Taiwanese air and naval space and has conducted live-fire military exercises around the island in response to high-profile meetings between U.S. and Taiwanese officials, such as when former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) visited the island in August 2022 and when Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen met Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) in California in April. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning responded to the reports of the delivery of Stingers on May 26, criticizing the U.S. as interfering in Chinas internal affairs, calling the weapons delivery extremely wrong and dangerous. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Tara Reade, who accused Joe Biden of sexual assault, is seeking refuge in Russia and singing Moscow's praises Tara Reade has moved to Russia. @megynkelly/Twitter Tara Reade, the former Senate staffer who accused Joe Biden of sexual assault, is now in Russia. She said she moved to Moscow out of fear for her safety, and blasted the US on numerous issues. Reade said she seeks Russian citizenship, but also wants to retain her US passport. Tara Reade, who in 2020 accused President Joe Biden of sexual assault, has appeared in Russia, and said she plans to become a citizen there. Reade made the announcement at a Tuesday press conference in Moscow with Sputnik, a state-owned news outlet. Joining her was Maria Butina, a Russian woman who was convicted in the US of trying to sway American policies as a foreign agent by infiltrating the National Rifle Association. Reade said she was welcomed by Butina, who was jailed by the US in 2018 but is now a Russian member of parliament. "As I move forward, I hope to find safety here," said Reade. "I appreciate my friends in Moscow, Russia, that have opened their arms to me and given me that safety, including Maria Butina." The former US Senate staffer said she hopes to obtain Russian citizenship from the country's leader, Vladimir Putin. She claimed to face intense persecution in the US after saying Biden had sexually assaulted her when she worked for him in 1993 in Congress. "I just didn't want to walk home and walk into a cage or be killed, which is basically my two choices," she said. Biden has repeatedly denied Reade's allegation. Reade, who said she wants to keep her American citizenship, spoke about a variety of issues in the US, criticizing its infrastructure, politics, media industry, and Washington's stance on the war in Ukraine. "It is remarkable that Joe Biden raped me when I worked for him at the US Congress, and I'm supposed to be the fugitive," Reade said. Reade claimed media investigations into her credibility were part of a smear campaign Reade filed a formal criminal complaint against Biden in 2020, but her credibility soon came under intense scrutiny. At the Moscow press conference, she characterized the investigations as a smear campaign. While several people close to Reade came forward to corroborate her allegation, The New York Times found no former Biden staffers who could back up the details of Reade's sexual-assault account. The Times also reported that Reade never acquired a college degree from Antioch University in Seattle, where she claimed to have graduated and worked as a faculty member. Reade said her graduation was handled privately because her name was changed to protect her from a domestic violence-related issue. But Antioch University publicly said that while Reade attended several semesters at the college, she neither graduated nor worked as a faculty member there. Politico also reported that several of Reade's ex-acquaintances accused her of manipulating them so she could borrow money or skip rent payments. One of Reade's former landlords also claimed she spoke highly of Biden in 1994 a year after the assault she claims took place per Politico. Her attorney, Douglas Wigdor, dropped her as a client in May 2020 but didn't say why. He said he believed Reade was "subjected to a double standard" in the media and that her past life faced undue attention unrelated to her sexual assault claims. Reade's arrival in Moscow comes as US-Russia tensions continue to deteriorate over the war in Ukraine. She blamed American "elites" in Washington for generating a hostile atmosphere toward Moscow. "To my Russian brothers and sisters, I'm sorry right now that American elites are choosing to have such an aggressive stance," she said. "Just know that most American citizens do want to be friends and hope that we can have unity again." The White House and press service for the Russian government did not immediately respond to Insider's requests for comment sent outside regular business hours. Read the original article on Business Insider Photograph: Donald Thompson/AP Tara Reade, a former Senate staffer who in 2020 accused Joe Biden of sexual assault, has said she had defected to Russia. Im still kind of in a daze a bit but I feel very good, Reade told Sputnik, a Russian press outlet supportive of President Vladimir Putin, while sitting with Maria Butina, a convicted Russian agent jailed in the US but now a member of parliament in Russia. Related: Who is Tara Reade and what are her allegations against Joe Biden? I feel very surrounded by protection and safety, Reade said on Tuesday. Now 59, Reade was a staffer for Biden when he was a US senator from Delaware. In 2020, as Biden ran for the Democratic presidential nomination, she claimed that in 1993, in a Senate corridor, he pushed her against a wall and assaulted her. Biden repeatedly denied the accusation. At her press appearance in Russia, Reade was described as a writer and publicist and former aide to Joe Biden. Sitting next to Butina, Reade said: I just really so appreciate Maria and everyone whos been giving me [protection] at a time when its been very difficult to know if Im safe or not. I just didnt want to walk home and walk into a cage or be killed, which is basically my two choices. Reade recently considered testifying before US House Republicans seeking to use committees to attack Biden and his family. The decision to defect to Russia, she told Sputnik, was very difficult. Im not an impulsive person. I really take my time and sort of analyse data points. And from what I could see based on the cases and based on what was happening and sort of the push for them to not want me to testify, I felt that while [the 2024] election is gearing up and theres so much at stake, Im almost better off here and just being safe. My dream is to live in both places, but it may be that I only live in this place and thats OK. Biden is running for re-election. As president, he has helped maintain international support for Ukraine as it fights invading Russian forces. Reade said: To my Russian brothers and sisters, Im sorry right now that American elites are choosing to have such an aggressive stance. Just know that most American citizens do want to be friends and hope that we can have unity again. I am enjoying my time in Moscow, and I feel very at home. Nepali Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal reviews a guard of honor as he leaves for a visit to India from Kathmandu, Nepal, May 31, 2023. Dahal left for a four-day visit to India on Wednesday afternoon, with a number of deals expected to be inked during the tour. (Photo by Sulav Shrestha/Xinhua) KATHMANDU, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Nepali Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal left for a four-day visit to India on Wednesday afternoon, with a number of deals expected to be inked during the tour. Dahal is leading a delegation comprising nearly 100 members for his first foreign trip since he took office in December last year. Different agreements are expected to be signed during the prime minister's visit, Nepal's Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud said at a press meeting on Tuesday. "Attracting Indian investment in hydropower projects, the expansion of transmission lines and seeking Indian support in the export of energy to Bangladesh are our priorities," he said, adding that they will also request the Indian government to allow the air routes. Nepali Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal waves his hand as he leaves for a visit to India from Kathmandu, Nepal, May 31, 2023. Dahal left for a four-day visit to India on Wednesday afternoon, with a number of deals expected to be inked during the tour. (Photo by Sulav Shrestha/Xinhua) Maury County Budget Committee members had their work cut out for them earlier this month with a 6% raise for county employees and a 7% bump for Maury County Public Schools staff on the line, while a room filled with Maury County teachers, administrators and officials looked on in anticipation at the budget committee meeting. Committee members barely bumped county wages by vote of 4-3, with commissioners Tommy Wolaver, Pam Huffman and Chairwoman, Kathey Grodi dissenting. Maury County Public Schools superintendent Lisa Ventura presents the 2023-24 operational school budget at the Maury County Commission on Tuesday, May 9, 2023 in Columbia. Even with this raise, the pay study conducted by the county last fiscal year, puts MCPS in the bottom 25% among 14 other districts. Ventura shared her concern that MCPS teachers cannot afford to live in their own county, but expressed excitement about the 7% raise that would take starting annual teacher pay from just $42,000 to $45,000. Were not fully to market value yet, but definitely closer to target, Ventura said, sharing Gov. Bill Lees goal to have starting teacher pay at $50,000 before the end of his term. The pay raise for school and county employees would go into effect on June 3. Alongside the increase, the committee approved the MCPS $144.3 million operational budget, 5-1-1, with Commissioner Tommy Wolaver dissenting and Gwynne Evans abstaining because he is a teacher with MCPS. The full Maury County Commission will hear the school district's operational budget proposal. The school district is moving toward a $21 million jump from last years budget request, a percentage increase of 16.64%, according to the school district's tally of $144, 365,768 for the 2023-24 fiscal year. Last years projected budget, north of $123 million left the district with a $7 million surplus due to capital projects put on hold due to certain delays in construction materials and labor, for example. Commissioners Gabe Howard, Ray Jeter and Danny Grooms (sitting in for Chad Brothers), who supported the raise for county employees, stressed the need to keep Maury County salaries competitive. In order to keep good people, weve got to stay competitive with other counties, Grooms said. Our people are our greatest asset. You can build all the million-dollar buildings you want, but if you dont have anybody to work in them, all you have is a building. Grooms prefaced his comments mentioning teacher vacancies in the county school system and resignations by employees, leaving for higher pay. Maury County Commission Chairman Eric Previti said after the meeting Tuesday he was pleased the school board worked hard and presented us with a balanced budget and that they passed raises for the county and school employees. A large portion of the budget committee meeting also included an informational component in which commissioners asked finance staff many questions regarding the budgeting process, which led to moments of frustration during the meeting. However, Previti said the newly elected commissioners were "soaking it up like a sponge." Our budget committee had a lot of good questions and with 15 new commissioners, this year, they are learning it all and soaking it up like a sponge, Previti said. We all look forward to hearing the capital requests upcoming. Filling teacher positions still a challenge Ventura indicated that her latest count for needed teachers is around 59 with the new Battle Creek High School, but stressed that it's a moving target, a number that changes daily. Will all those positions be realized? Ventura said. Theyre budgeted. Maury County has a 2% growth rate that is only set to increase as thousands of new homes are built in Maury County, especially the northern part of the county, which will bring new families and children. New positions being sought in the district include an assistant principal for Battle Creek Middle School in Spring Hill and the start of staffing for the new Battle Creek High School, set to open in fall 2024. Lukonen said the new positions are largely the bulk of the roughly $17.5 million increase in the budget's fund balance from last year. Financial outlook from director Revenue side, Maury County and schools finance director Doug Lukonen expressed optimism about the overall financial picture. Were still surpassing our projected numbers on sales tax, which is a good indicator of business, Lukonen said.Business tax numbers have suffered, Lukonen said, due to a different timetable for due dates on business tax revenues. But youll see the bulk of that show up in the last quarter of the year, Lukonen said. Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, who was present at the budget committee meeting, has publicly stated that the school district will receive $17 million additional funds, following the recent restructuring of the state's funding formula for school districts, or the new Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA). Maury County Mayor Sheila Butt weighed in at the end of the night referencing her previous campaign theme of "Team Maury," which addressed effective communication between governmental bodies for the betterment of the county. When I look at the teachers, principals here, we need you all to be on the team, Butt said. If there are problems, come to us, dont wait until this time to say what you need. We want to help you and see our kids succeed everything youre doing is about the kids. Dont look at us like combatants. Were with you and the kids, and anything we can do to make that happen we want to do.We are going to expect some higher levels in our childrens learning." This article originally appeared on The Daily Herald: Teachers, county employees are headed toward 6-7% raise in Maury County Artificial intelligence could lead to the extinction of the human race thats the ominous warning from some technology executives and academics familiar with the field of AI. A single statement letter was released by the Center for Artificial Intelligence Safety and reads with one sentence: Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war. The letter is a short but concise statement that puts the danger of AI in the realm of some of humanitys riskiest and most dangerous entities. Theres a long list of signatories and the list includes an executive from Redmond-based Microsoft. The notion of AI running amok and destroying the human race sounds like something more in the realm of science fiction rather than science fact, but the letter makes it clear that the age of AI is here. It also warns of the danger it can pose. There has been criticism of the rollout of some AI systems. Weve seen companies racing to develop and put out AI chatbots and similar platforms. The companies are doing it for monetary reasons and competition, and that has frightened industry analysts, academics, federal government officials both in administration and in Congress, as well as many people across the country whove used or sampled the technology. The possibility exists that bad actors could take over and use AI for harmful reasons, or that the AI could become so smart and self-aware that it would harm the human race in some manner. Recently On CBS News Face the Nation, Microsoft President and Vice Chair Brad Smith said he expects the US government to regulate artificial intelligence. We do need more than we have. We need our existing laws to apply. They need to be enforced, but especially when it comes to these most powerful models, when it comes to the protection of the nations security, I do think we would benefit from a new agency, a new licensing system, said Smith. Smith said that something to ensure that models are developed safely is needed. I do think that there is some real virtue in telling the public when they are seeing content that has been generated by AI instead of a human being, especially if it is designed to look like a human being, a human face or voice, so that people know no thats not the real person. We, I think, will need some new standards in that space, said Smith. He also said companies should not dictate the policy for AI development. Instead, the elected government for the US should be calling the shots. This, I think, is one of the issues that were gonna need to discuss together and find a path through. Now, we do need to balance that we live in a country that I think quite rightly prides itself on free expression. Were not suggesting that any single company or the entire industry together should be the one to set the rules. We should have the United States government, elected by the American people, setting the rules of the road. And we should all be obliged to follow them. Look, we need rules, we need laws, we need responsibility and we need it quickly, Smith said. In mid-May, some of the signatories on the letter testified before Congress about the risks and rewards of AI. Local signatories include Kevin Scott, Chief Technology Officer for Microsoft, and Eric Horvitz, Chief Scientific Officer, Microsoft. ted cruz Is Ted Cruz an ally? (Definitely not!) ted cruz Ted Cruz is getting an odd reaction from both the left and right on Twitter after he publicly condemned a Ugandan anti-gay law that would punish those who have gay sex with death or life in prison. Cruz, normally a hero to the right and someone who has a terrible record on LGBTQ+ rights, recently tweeted out his condemnation of a new Ugandan law that increases punishment for people who have, or attempt to have, gay sex in the country. Now, in a reversal of normal roles, those on the left are praising his new woke era while those on the right are trashing him as a groomer and pedophile supporter. \u201cThis Uganda law is horrific & wrong. Any law criminalizing homosexuality or imposing the death penalty for \u201caggravated homosexuality\u201d is grotesque & an abomination. ALL civilized nations should join together in condemning this human rights abuse. #LGBTQ\u201d Ted Cruz (@Ted Cruz) 1685372975 twitter.com This Uganda law is horrific & wrong. Any law criminalizing homosexuality or imposing the death penalty for aggravated homosexuality is grotesque & an abomination. ALL civilized nations should join together in condemning this human rights abuse. #LGBTQ This Uganda law is horrific & wrong, Cruz wrote on Twitter. Any law criminalizing homosexuality or imposing the death penalty for aggravated homosexuality is grotesque & an abomination. ALL civilized nations should join together in condemning this human rights abuse. However, his supporters dont agree, and seem to mostly be in favor of the law, which punishes aggravated homosexuality, or same-sex relations involving people who are HIV-positive, elderly, disabled, or mentally ill and sexual assault of minors, with death. The law states that if a person has gay sex with someone over 75, a person with a disability, or a person with mental illness, opening the doors for a lot of consensual acts to be punished with death. Sarah Paulson could be punished with execution for her relationship with Holland Taylor under this law. Anyone who Ryan OConnells character in the Netflix show Special slept with could be punished by death under this law. It also punishes Ugandans who engage in consensual gay sex where those categories are not involved with life in prison. \u201cTed Cruz saying gays should not be executed and arrested for being gay seems to be too woke for part of his base\u201d Dylan Burns \ud83c\uddfa\ud83c\udde6\ud83c\udff3\ufe0f\u200d\ud83c\udf08 (@Dylan Burns \ud83c\uddfa\ud83c\udde6\ud83c\udff3\ufe0f\u200d\ud83c\udf08) 1685379170 twitter.com Ted Cruz saying gays should not be executed and arrested for being gay seems to be too woke for part of his base Unfortunately, Cruzs statement was a bit too much for his supporters. Conservative Twitter immediately started attacking Cruz, calling him woke (derogatory), a Globalist Canadian (bringing in the anti-semetism), pro-butt sex, and an advocate for woke imperialism. \u201cDid you guys have Ted Cruz being an ally in your 2023 bingo card\u201d meg\ud83d\udd4a, PhD (@meg\ud83d\udd4a, PhD) 1685404096 twitter.com Did you guys have Ted Cruz being an ally in your 2023 bingo card But while Cruzs supporters and other republicans are on board the hate train right now, those on the left are celebrating Cruzs woke turn, at least while it lasts. While progressives are happy Cruz has joined them on this issue, very few see it as an actual, genuine change of heart for the Republican. But hey, why not enjoy some sarcasm? Continue scrolling to see more over-the-top reactions to this new, pro-gay side of Ted Cruz. \u201cTed Cruz: "Gay people shouldn't be killed." Too many conservatives:\u201d cassius (@cassius) 1685390027 twitter.com Ted Cruz: "Gay people shouldn't be killed." Too many conservatives: \u201c"We've secretly replaced Texas Senator Ted Cruz with a decent human being. Let's see if anyone notices."\u201d Boostered \u264e Ally Teacher (@Boostered \u264e Ally Teacher) 1685479171 twitter.com "We've secretly replaced Texas Senator Ted Cruz with a decent human being. Let's see if anyone notices." \u201cnot ted cruz in his ally era\u201d Brooke (@Brooke) 1685476140 twitter.com not ted cruz in his ally era \u201cwait there's oil in uganda?\u201d jaboukie (@jaboukie) 1685411560 twitter.com wait there's oil in uganda? \u201cYou are not gonna like what\u2019s happening in Florida\u2026\u201d Rachel Vindman \ud83c\udf3b (@Rachel Vindman \ud83c\udf3b) 1685395761 twitter.com You are not gonna like whats happening in Florida \u201cNote: he was very careful to say homosexuality since his home state is actively committing a genocide against trans people.\u201d saddy mayonnaise (@saddy mayonnaise) 1685407122 twitter.com Note: he was very careful to say homosexuality since his home state is actively committing a genocide against trans people. \u201cTed Cruz: Maybe gay people deserve to live? The GOP base: First of all, how dare you.\u201d Laura (@Laura) 1685379827 twitter.com Ted Cruz: Maybe gay people deserve to live? The GOP base: First of all, how dare you. Teen shot dead by South Carolina shop owner who suspected him of stealing water bottles [Source] A 14-year-old boy was fatally shot after being suspected of shoplifting at a gas station convenience store in South Carolina over the weekend. The incident occurred at the Xpress Mart Shell station on Parklane Road in Columbia at around 8 p.m. on Sunday. The gas stations owner, 58-year-old Rick Chow, is now facing murder charges. Chow believed that the teenager identified as Cyrus Carmack-Belton was stealing water bottles from his store. He allegedly chased the boy out of the store and shot him further down the road. More from NextShark: BTS Suga Donates $83,000 to COVID-19 Relief Efforts Police reviewed surveillance footage and determined that the alleged shoplifting did not occur, according to WIS TV. They said a verbal confrontation ensued inside the store but did not escalate to anything physical. Chows son reportedly told his father that Carmack-Belton was armed. They both chased him out of the store before Chow allegedly shot him in the right lower back. More from NextShark: North Korea urges citizens to eat less until 2025, resorting to black swans for meat A gun was recovered near Carmack-Beltons body. However, there is purportedly no evidence that he threatened Chow with it. Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott described the incident as senseless in a press conference Monday. More from NextShark: Member of ISIS 'Beatles' gets life sentence over fatal kidnappings of American, Japanese and British hostages Even if he had shoplifted four bottles of water, which is what he initially took out of the cooler and then he put them back, even if hed done that, thats not something you shoot anybody over, much less a 14-year-old, but you just dont do that, he said. Lott said there had been prior shoplifting incidents at the store, resulting in confrontations between Chow and other customers. Some reportedly described the store owner as rude and nasty to customers. Looters hijacked a peaceful protest held at the station on Monday night. More from NextShark: Recent assaults at Boston schools involved students using city-issued Chromebooks as weapons Lott said they will be arrested. We had one tragedy the other night when the 14-year-old was shot. Why in the world did we have to continue to have what we had last night with people just going out and stealing and trying to destroy? That's not what this is about, Lott said, as per CBS News. That's not what the family of that 14-year-old wants. Chow, who is being held at the Richland County Jail, made his initial court appearance on Tuesday, the Associated Press reported. A bond hearing is expected later. Three teenagers have been arrested for killing and eating a swan from a New York towns pond, according to officials (Facebook/Village of Manlius Swan Pond) Three teenagers have been arrested for killing and eating a beloved swan from a New York towns pond, according to officials. Eman Hussan, 18, of Syracuse was arrested in connection with the killing of Faye, the mother swan, said Manlius police Sgt Ken Hatter. A 16-year-old and a 17-year-old, who are both from Syracuse, were also arrested. Manlius officials say that the three friends climbed over a fence at the towns pond on Sunday night and held the female swan down while she was nesting. Investigators say that the teenagers told them they thought the swan was a large wild duck and decided to go hunting. They did not know that it was a swan, and they did not know that it was not a wild animal, that it was actually owned by the Village of Manlius, Sgt Hatter told reporters. The teenagers took the swan back to one of their homes in Syracuse where they cooked and ate her, say police. They also took her four cygnets from the pond and intended to raise them as pets. All four are now in the care of the biologist who looks after the birds. They also say that following the killing, Fayes partner, Manny, will be removed from the pond and relocated. He will take care of those probably for another six weeks because theyre not ready to be put back into the pond yet, to live on their own. At that point, we will probably remove Manny because of the significance that they do mate forever and losing Faye, Manny can become combative, said Manlius Mayor Paul Whorrall. The swans have been here since 1905. And so we care for them, maintain them, feed them, do everything and stuff, added Mr Whorrall. Theyve been ours forever. And we will continue. The public needs to know that this is not ending. We will continue to have swans and hopefully, at some point get back to normal. All three suspects have been charged with grand larceny in the third degree, a class D felony, criminal mischief in the second degree, a class D felony, conspiracy in the fifth degree, a class B misdemeanour and criminal trespass in the third degree, a class A misdemeanour. Mr Hussan was arrested and released on his own recognizance. He will appear at the Village of Manlius Court on 15 June. [Source] The Teletubbies have made an unexpected return but this time, theyre blowing up on social media. On May 1, 2020, the official Teletubbies TikTok account posted its first video. The account has slowly risen in popularity, with several recent videos garnering millions of views. Eh-Oh! Welcome to the official TikTok of Teletubbyland, the accounts bio states. It now has over 962,000 followers and 14.1 million total views. Some of the accounts most-watched videos feature Po, the red Teletubby. More from NextShark: 'They do not want to experience any hardship': Jackie Chan says young actors lack work ethic Po was played by British Chinese actor Pui Fan Lee in the original Teletubbies series, which ran from 1997 to 2001 in the U.K. In a popular TikTok video with over 5.2 million views and 809,000 likes, Po can be seen trying to move around on a scooter. The body is round. Her little legs arent designed for distance, the clips onscreen text says. More from NextShark: BLACKPINK set to make history as Coachellas first K-pop headlining act The fact that this isn't a fan edit but the actual Teletubbies account is SENDING me, one TikTok user commented on the video, while another wrote, Po was always my girl growing up and this confirms it. In another video featuring Po, she can be seen eating Tubby Toast, one of the Teletubbies' favorite foods, while thinking of Pedro Pascal ("The Last of Us," "The Mandalorian") eating toast. More from NextShark: 'Ip Man 5' and 2 other new Donnie Yen films revealed at Cannes Just me imagining what Tubby Toast tastes like with Pedro Pascal, the clips onscreen text says. Tinky-Winky (the purple Teletubby), Dipsy (the green Teletuby) and Laa-Laa (the yellow Teletubby) can also be seen in videos featuring TikTok trends and popular music. More from NextShark: Got7 makes highly anticipated comeback after JYP exit with music video for 'Nanana' In a May 17 clip, they promote self-care while Saweeties My Type plays in the background. Always deliver the best version of yourself. Work out, eat good, clean your room, take care of your mind, body and soul. Inner love translates to outer love, Saweetie can also be heard saying. The teletubbies raised me, one TikTok user commented on the video. [Laa-Laa] is literally the only reason Im alive. Truly the icon I strive to be, another user wrote. Teletubbies using this song was not on my 2023 bingo card, another user said. In another clip, which has garnered over 7.4 million views since it was posted on April 6, the Teletubbies can be seen driving around in a car. The clips onscreen text says I WOKE UP IN A NEW TUBBY CAR while the hit 2013 song Bugatti by Ace Hound, Future and Rick Ross plays in the background. Teletubbies tiktok is elite, one Tiktok user commented, while another wrote, PO GOT A LICENSE???? The Teletubbies were created by Anne Wood and Andrew Davenport for the BBC and made their debut in 1997. The four iconic characters, who live in Teletubbyland, have televisions on their stomachs and antennas protruding from their heads. Their award-winning children's TV series follows them as they go on adventures and find themselves in tricky situations, often caused by their anthropomorphic vacuum cleaner called Noo-Noo. Another character in the show who has become a pop culture icon is the Sun Baby, the sun of Teletubbyland that makes baby noises and has a live-action baby face. Tennent's The drinks' firm behind Tennent's lager has said the removal of glass from the deposit return scheme would put jobs and investment in Scotland at risk. C&C Group has written to the first minister expressing "serious concerns" about the UK government's decision that any scheme must exclude glass. The brewer says that would put Tennent's - typically sold in cans - at a significant competitive disadvantage. The UK government argues that it has reacted to industry concerns. First Minister Humza Yousaf said the decision could have a "disproportionate" impact on Scottish businesses. C&C Group has requested an "urgent meeting" with Mr Yousaf to discuss its concerns. Managing director Andrea Pozzi wrote: "This announcement increases the already huge uncertainty around the scheme for the drinks industry, customers, and consumers and, if implemented, would be a fundamental change to the scheme." He also warned the partial exemption would have "serious implications". Mr Pozzi added: "By removing glass from a Scottish DRS [deposit return scheme], Tennent's - as a product sold in can in the Scottish off-trade - would be at a significant competitive disadvantage, undermining our business and therefore placing jobs and investment in Scotland at risk." As a result he vowed the brewer would have no alternative but to "actively seek and support a UK-wide scheme". reverse vending machine The British Soft Drinks Association, which represents brands including Irn Bru makers AG Barr, has also called for a UK-wide approach. In a statement, it said that "surely the only viable option now is for all stakeholders to commit to launching a deposit return scheme across the UK on the same timeframe". The Scottish government is considering whether or not to proceed with a Scotland-only scheme in March 2024. Its decision is expected early next week. To allow the scheme to operate effectively, ministers sought a full exemption from the rules of the UK Internal Market Act. UK ministers have granted a partial exemption - on condition that the Scottish scheme excludes glass and matches plans for deposit return in other parts of the UK. In effect, the Scottish government is being permitted to pilot what should eventually become a UK-wide approach, rather than proceeding with its own distinctive proposals. Scottish ministers have accused the UK of "deliberate sabotage" and interference in devolved decision-making. First Minister Humza Yousaf has criticised the UK government's actions The UK government insists that it is responding to the concerns of business and avoiding unnecessary costs and complexity. Mr Yousaf told the BBC that the UK government had effectively said it was "their way or the highway". "The problem with their way is that it could have a disproportionate impact on Scottish businesses - iconic brands like Irn Bru, like Tennent's," said the first minister. "They could be disproportionately impacted because of the UK government's actions. "So we've got to take a choice. Do we do that, or I'm afraid do we not have a scheme because it simply will not be viable without punishing Scottish business. And that's a very stark decision and choice we have to come to." Schemes 'need to be consistent' Circular Economy Minister Lorna Slater said C&C Group's letter showed the "recklessness" of the UK government's decision to remove glass and called for it to be reversed. She added: "Including plastic, metal and glass is best for the environment and maximises the economic benefits, too." But the UK government said the drinks industry had raised concerns about the Scottish government's scheme differing from plans in the rest of the UK. A spokesperson said: "We have listened to these concerns and that is why we have accepted the Scottish government's request for a UK Internal Market exclusion on a temporary and limited basis to ensure the Scottish government's scheme aligns with planned schemes for the rest of the UK. "Deposit return schemes need to be consistent across the UK and this is the best way to provide a simple and effective system. "A system with the same rules for the whole UK will increase recycling collection rates and reduce litter - as well as minimise disruption to the drinks industry and ensure simplicity for consumers." Photo: BSIP (Getty Images) A Tennessee woman who was denied an emergency abortion for her life-threatening ectopic pregnancy ultimately became infertile and was forced to have an emergency hysterectomy to save her life, ABC reported on Wednesday. The woman, Mayron Hollis, gave birth prematurely through a cesarean delivery, but for the last several months now, her infant has been in and out of the hospital as Hollis staggering medical bills continue to pile up. Last summer, Hollis and her husband learned she was pregnant shortly after shed just given birth to their first child in February 2022. The pregnancy concerned doctors, as shed had a cesarean delivery and become pregnant again in a short amount of time, increasing the risk of a cesarean scar pregnancya type of ectopic pregnancy in which the embryo implants in the cesarean scar from a previous C-section. Read more By August, Hollis learned she did have a cesarean scar pregnancy, that her pregnancy was already bulging out of her uterus, and that she had a placenta accretaa life-threatening pregnancy complication that occurs when the placenta grows too deeply inside the uterine wall, and part or all of the placenta remains attached to the uterine wall even during delivery. According to the Mayo Clinic, the condition can result in severe blood loss after delivery as well as infertility, as theres only a narrow window for pregnancies with placenta accreta to be terminated without requiring a hysterectomy. It was a crushing diagnosis for Hollis and her husband, who had wanted to have another child, prompting them to take time to determine their next step. By the time the couple determined that the risk to Hollis life was too significant, Tennessees trigger abortion ban had taken effect after the fall of Roe v. Wade last summer. Hollis would need a complex procedure requiring multiple physicians from varying specialties to terminate her placenta accreta without removing her uterus. But as a result of the states abortion laws, which at the time featured no exceptions, not enough physicians were willing to provide the care Hollis needed, fearing criminalization. (ABC notes that at the time, an exception to save the life of the pregnant person or prevent permanent bodily injury only [came] into play when a physician is defending themselves in court, after theyve already been charged with a felony for providing abortion care.) Doctors recommended that Hollis travel to Pittsburgh to get the procedure she needed, but she wasnt able to, citing her husbands and her demanding work schedules and inability to afford to take time off. Ultimately, because of Tennessees laws, Hollis learned she simply had to continue with her pregnancy, as it didnt pose an immediate threat to her life. Because of everything that was going on, they didnt know what was the right thing to do was. So the only way to save me was for something bad to happen to me, Hollis told ABC. As Hollis pregnancy progressed, it eventually attached to her bladder, and her accreta progressed to placenta percreta, growing beyond her uterine wall and attaching to surrounding organs, creating the risk that her uterus could rupture. By December, around the 25th week of Hollis pregnancy, she experienced severe bleeding and was hospitalized for four days before being released. Hollis told ABC that some doctors shed spoken to feared they were gonna have to reconstruct my bladder. She explained, They didnt know if it was gonna touch any other organsif they could even stop the bleeding if I did start to hemorrhage. The following day after Hollis returned home, her severe bleeding resumed, and she returned to the hospitalthis time for a cesarean delivery and emergency hysterectomy in one procedure, according to medical records obtained by ABC. I didnt want the hysterectomy. But they said that was the only way that they could stop the bleeding to help me, so I didnt have a choice, she told the outlet. Had Hollis been able to terminate the placenta accreta earlier in her pregnancy, she might have avoided the life-saving hysterectomy and continued to grow her family. Since Hollis experience, Tennessee legislators added an exception to the states abortion laws that would allow for abortion care for ectopic pregnancies similar to Hollis. But doctors, including one of the physicians who helped treat Hollis, fear this makes little difference in practice. So much of medicine is gray areas, Dr. Sarah Osmundson told ABC. Regulating these complex decisions will result in people getting hurt and will result in people dying. Earlier this month, the Health and Human Services Departments Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) wrapped its investigation of two hospitals that last year denied a Missouri woman life-saving abortion care, determining that these hospitals had violated EMTALA (the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act). A lawyer for the Missouri woman told Jezebel that hospitals across the countryincluding states with ambiguous abortion bansneed to recognize that when a patient comes to them with a life-threatening pregnancy complication, they do not need toand must notwait until the patient is on the brink of death to provide care. Since the delivery of Hollis newborn on Dec. 13, the infant, Alayna, remained hospitalized for two full months; she was so premature that she spent her first month of life in an incubator. After going home, Alayna has been in and out of the hospital. The longest shes been at home since February, Hollis told ABC, was for two weeks. They really had no answer for me the whole time I was pregnant. It was the scariest thing I ever did, Hollis said. [Doctors were] telling me that my pregnancy wasnt viable, but we cant send you anywhere and we cant do anything to help you. All that she or those around her could do, she said, were a lot of prayers and just having a lot of faith. And now, shes left dealing with the aftermath of her pregnancy-related struggles while going back to work because I dont have the means to pay for the adequate care that she needs. More from Jezebel Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic violence, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 18007997233 (SAFE). FIRST ON FOX: Police in California on Tuesday said they found a woman who went missing earlier in the month as she traveled cross-country from Tennessee with her boyfriend. "On May 30, 2023, at around 4:30 P.M., the Redding Police Department learned Missing Person Nikki Alcaraz was contacted earlier today by the Eureka Police Department and found to be safe. The Redding Police Department has been in contact with the Moriarty, New Mexico Police Department and confirmed Nikki is no longer considered a missing person. The Redding Police Department would like to thank our allied agency partners who assisted with efforts to locate Nikki. Photographs from the original post have been removed out of respect for the involved," police said. Earlier on Tuesday, New Mexico deputies released bloody images, bodycam video and 911 audio of a domestic violence call involving a road-tripping Nashville couple as police in multiple states attempted to find the woman who had been missing for weeks. Nikki Alcaraz and boyfriend Steven Tyler Stratton were pulled over on May 4 in Torrance County, New Mexico, on a cross-country trip from Tennessee to California. She was later considered missing although police said she was seen alive over the weekend at a Walmart store in Northern California. The bodycam video, however, painted a complicated picture of the days leading up to her disappearance. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP "There was an altercation between me and my girlfriend," Stratton can be heard telling an EMT when she arrives for treatment and asks him what happened. Later, he tells her he has been diagnosed with depression and anxiety. TENNESSEE WOMAN MISSING FROM ROAD TRIP TO CALIFORNIA WITH BOYFRIEND AFTER ALLEGED FIGHT IN NEW MEXICO Torrance authorities released these images taken after a May 4 altercation involving missing Nikki Alcaraz and boyfriend Steven Tyler Stratton. A 911 caller told dispatchers he saw Stratton punch Alcaraz in the face while she was seated on the side of the road. According to the incident report, a witness told a Torrance County deputy that he saw Stratton punch Alcaraz in the face on the side of Interstate 40 on May 4. Authorities were already on the way to the scene after dispatch received a call from a screaming woman who abruptly stopped responding. The reporting witness, a truck driver, told a responding deputy that he pulled over ready to fight Stratton after what he saw. "So I was, I was driving, I seen her sitting on the ground and the dude f---ing cock back and either slap her or punch her, and I got family, I got sisters and stuff, I would never, you know?" he tells the officer. "So I pulled over, I was ready to fight him, really, but he was calm." NATALEE HOLLOWAY SUSPECT JORAN VAN DER SLOOT BEATEN IN PRSION, LAWYER CLAIMS Instead, he got in the middle and asked Alcaraz if she was OK. She asked him to call 911, he said. Alcaraz had bruises and red marks on her skin and initial told the deputy she wanted to press charges, the video shows. But minutes later when the deputy approached Stratton, he found his face covered in blood. Nikki Alcaraz, left, vanished from a cross-country road trip with her boyfriend Steven Tyler Stratton, according to deputies in Cheatham County, Tennessee. The couple was reportedly involved in a domestic dispute in New Mexico along the way, but no charges were filed. "I don't know what happened," the trucker later told the deputy as they discussed the possibility that the two had been mutual combatants. "But just her being on the floor, and him f---ing hitting her while she was down, I don't think she's the aggressor." "I think she was probably defending herself at one point," he added. MADELEINE MCCANN SEARCH IN PORTUGAL OVER, ITEMS COLLECTED FOR TESTING: POLICE The Cheatham County Sheriff's Office in Tennessee released these images of Nikki Alvaraz showing bruises on her face and arm. She went missing from a cross-country road trip earlier this month after an alleged fight with her boyfriend in New Mexico. Stratton was initially sitting on the pavement, smoking a cigarette and not wearing shoes when the deputy approached. The deputy cuffed Stratton and confiscated a knife from his front right pocket. Nikki Alcaraz's black 2013 Jeep Wrangler. There was blood running down the side of the car, and deputies determined the two to be "mutual combatants" after allegedly pummeling each other while driving down the highway. The deputy at one point pushes Stratton on whether Alcaraz may have been the aggressor. The cuffed man insists he does not want to change his story or press charges. "We're having issues because there's a lot of other stuff going on," Stratton tells the deputy. "Mental issues with her." Nikki Alcaraz photographed at the scene of a New Mexico stop on May 4. The deputy asks if she has been diagnosed with anything, and he says he's not sure. "I haven't ever seen Nikki act like this before," Stratton says. "I don't want to get her in trouble or anything, but she's been blacking out off of like one or two beers and hitting me for the past two months." Nashville woman Nikki Alcaraz on bodycam video days before she went missing on a road trip to California. A witness told police he saw her boyfriend Steven Tyler Stratton punch her in the face on the side of Interstate 40. Both of them appeared to have been drinking, according to the incident report but each denied having been behind the wheel. Ultimately, police split them up, impounded the car and filed no charges. Before leaving, the witness made one last observation to the deputy. "She seems like a sweet girl," he said. "She's definitely a little rough around the edges, but nobody deserves that." The day after the altercation, Alcaraz showed up to retrieve her vehicle from a tow yard in the company of another man, according to the incident report. Steven Tyler Stratton handcuffed in the back of a deputy's cruiser after the May 4 domestic violence call. He was released and not charged after authorities determined he and girlfriend Nikki Alcaraz to be "mutual combatants." Prior to her disappearance, Alcaraz, also known as Nikki Cunningham, had last spoken with family via text on May 8, according to the Cheatham County Sheriff's Office in Tennessee. The couple was headed from Ashland City to Orange County, California in Alcaraz's black 2013 Jeep Wrangler, authorities said. The license plate is BGL3539, and she has a bumper sticker reading "Mama Tried" or "Mama Tired." Authorities question Steven Tyler Stratton after a roadside domestic violence step in New Mexico on May 4. He was allegedly seen punching girlfriend Nikki Alcaraz, who is now missing. Due to a history of domestic violence, Alcaraz was thought to have been in danger, according to the sheriff's office. Alcaraz is 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs about 160 pounds. She has a large tattoo across her chest, a piercing in her upper lip and dark hair. Authorities question Steven Tyler Stratton after a roadside domestic violence step in New Mexico on May 4. He was allegedly seen punching girlfriend Nikki Alcaraz, who is now missing. The case has drawn comparisons to the murder of Gabby Petito , who was killed in Wyoming during a cross-country "van life" road trip with former fiance Brian Laundrie, just two weeks after the couple was involved in a public domestic violence incident in Utah. Police also released 911 audio and bodycam from several deputies who arrived as backup. Fox News Digital is still going through the materials. Fox News' Haley Chi-Sing, Matteo Cina and Brooke Curto contributed to this report. UMass Memorial proposes to shut down its maternity ward at its Leominster campus by September 22nd, but this decision still needs regulatory approval. Dozens of people protested the decision outside the HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital Tuesday. Its distressful, its revolting, its terrifying, that these people could sit on a board and make a decision without communicating with our community because this is a community hospital, this is our hospital, said Irene Hernandez. If this maternity ward closes, the next closest one would be at least a half hour away in either Gardner or Worcester. We have patients come in and deliver within 2 minutes of being in the unit, we have a lot of patients come in and deliver on the way to the hospital here, so driving further is very concerning, and were all just petrified about whats going to happen, said Tara Corey, a labor and delivery nurse at the Leominster hospital. Dozens protested outside the UMass hospital in Leominster tonight after learning the hospital plans to close its maternity ward in September. Families & nurses worry about access to maternal healthcare in this region without these services. Story at 10:30 @boston25 pic.twitter.com/m87QEadSfC Litsa Pappas (@LitsaPappas) May 31, 2023 Hernandez says her daughter had a placenta abruption while in labor a few years ago and was rushed to this hospital. They had to do emergency surgery on her and she needed like 3 pints of blood, but can you imagine if they had to transfer her or transport her 45 minutes away? said Hernandez. The president of the hospital says this has been a difficult decision. In recent years, industry-wide workforce shortages have exacerbated the challenges of fully staffing our maternity inpatient unit consistently at HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital, despite our persistent attempts to recruit and retain clinicians in this region, said Steve Roach, President of UMass Memorial Health Alliance-Clinton Hospital in a statement. This, along with the steadily declining number of births in North Central Massachusetts, has a significant impact on our units future capacity to provide labor and delivery care to our patients. Its the patients, you know, and the moms and the babies of the community that are going to suffer that we dont want, said Amy Gagnon, a nurse at the hospital. Nurses are worried about moms delivering in the ER instead of without postpartum nurses to help take care of the babies. Local and state leaders say with a population of 100,000 people in Leominster and Fitchburg, these services need to stay here. Now more than ever we need access to maternal healthcare and a gateway city with a twin sister city that feeds into this hospital, we need to keep our labor and delivery unit and were hoping that we can use the next 120 days to really appeal to the hospital administration to keep the labor and delivery unit open, said Natalie Higgins, state representative for Leominster. Higgins says the Department of Public Health could schedule essential services hearing in early July, and thats when this community could still push to keep this open. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW BEIJING, May 31 (Xinhua) -- People in Taiwan and on the mainland will share the dignity and triumph of a great China on the journey towards national rejuvenation, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said Wednesday. People across the Taiwan Strait will both be proud of being Chinese, said Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, in response to the applause from Taiwan people on the successful launch of the Shenzhou-16 manned spaceship on Tuesday. Taiwan compatriots are excited about the launch and send many blessings, Zhu said, noting that this is how they share the honor and express their pride. After the Texas House of Representatives voted last week to impeach Attorney General Ken Paxton for alleged bribery, obstruction of justice and abuse of office, the senate must now serve as jury in his impeachment trial and among the senators who will decide the fate of the attorney general is his wife, Angela Paxton. Ken Paxton has been suspended after being accused, among other things, of using his position to secure a job for a woman with whom he was having an affair. The state's Constitution says that all senators must now serve as jurors in his trial, putting Angela Paxton at the center of the state's political storm. Rep. Andrew Murr, the head of the House committee that was investigating Paxton, did not answer reporters' questions on Monday if Angela Paxton would recuse herself from the vote, which could remove the attorney general from office, and she did not return a request for comment. Ken Paxton denies the allegations. Over the weekend he posted photos on social media with some of his children and grandchildren, writing "there's nothing better than a weekend spent with loved ones." Texas state Sen. Angela Paxton, R-McKinney, wife of impeached state Attorney General Ken Paxton, sits in the Senate Chamber at the Texas Capitol in Austin, Texas, Monday, May 29, 2023. / Credit: Eric Gay / AP What does Ken Paxton's alleged affair have to do with the impeachment? Many of the allegations against Paxton stem from his relationship with Austin real estate developer Nate Paul, a campaign donor. According to the House Investigating Committee, the attorney general misused his office to help Paul with a fraud lawsuit, against the advice of his deputy attorney general. In return, the articles of impeachment against Paxton allege Paul rewarded Paxton with a home remodeling and that he "benefited from Nate Paul's employment of a woman with whom Paxton was having an extramarital affair." "Paul received favorable legal assistance from, or specialized access to the office of the attorney general," the articles of impeachment said. According to Rep. Ann Johnson, a member of the House Investigating Committee, having the San Antonio woman employed in Austin made her "more convenient" to Paxton. Erin Epley, lead counsel for the House Investigating Committee, said that when members of the attorney general's staff found out about the affair, they were retaliated against. "There are also people on staff who, for example, found out about the affair and confronted Attorney General Ken Paxton who ended up with a pay raise but moved out of their scope of employment with less access with less control," Epley said. Did Angela Paxton know about the alleged affair? Epley said Angela Paxton found out about the affair in 2019. "The affair was not public," Epley said last week. "There was a desire to keep it private, according to these interviews, and the interviews establish that now-Senator Angela Paxton learned of the affair in 2019, that the affair ended briefly, but then it resumed and was underway again by 2020." Who is Angela Paxton? According to her website, Angela Paxton was adopted as a child and became the first person in her family to attend college. She and Ken Paxton met as students at Baylor University and they married in 1986. According to the Texas Tribune, she considers June 1 "I love you day," or the anniversary of the first time Ken told her he loved her. Angela and Ken Paxton have four adult children and three grandchildren. Angela Paxton was a math teacher and school counselor before she successfully ran for her husband's former state senate seat in 2018, representing the Dallas suburbs. The district had gone for former President Donald Trump for more than 9 points in 2016, but she won by barely 2 points in 2018, according to the Texas Tribune, although the Texas GOP lost 12 House seats in that election and lost their supermajority in the state Senate. On the campaign trail, she was known for singing a song that included the lyrics: "I'm a pistol-packing mama whose husband sues Obama." According to an affidavit from 2022, Angela Paxton drove her husband out of state to avoid being issued a subpoena. Angela Paxton has not recused herself in other matters regarding her husband, including voting on the budget, which sets his salary. She has also been accused of introducing legislation that would directly benefit her husband. What happens now with Ken Paxton's impeachment trial and will Angela Paxton recuse herself? Although Republicans hold a 86-64 majority in the Texas House, the chamber voted overwhelmingly to impeach Paxton, 122-23, with one Republican and one Democrat voting present. Republicans hold a 19-12 majority in the state Senate, and removal from office requires two-thirds of the chamber. On Monday, the Texas House appointed 12 impeachment managers, who will present the government's case against Paxton. The Senate trial will begin no later than Aug. 28, Murr said Monday. When asked by CBS News Texas' Jack Fink if Angela Paxton will recuse herself, Murr, one of the impeachment managers, replied: "I don't have a comment on that at this time." Veteran once imprisoned for being gay speaks out Harlan Crow refuses to go into detail on his ties to Clarence Thomas What role does Congress play in managing political conflict? Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is expected to sign a new law against diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in public schools. The law, which will eliminate DEI programs in the states public colleges and universities, is the latest Republican salvo against diversity initiatives. Dismantling DEI programs in Florida universities HuffPost reported that both chambers of the Republican-controlled Texas state legislature passed Senate Bill 17 on Sunday. If it becomes law, the bill would give all public universities in the state six months to eliminate all their DEI offices, and diversity training and other related programs would also be ended within this period. Abbott is expected to sign the bill into law this week. Universities will still be allowed to teach courses and conduct research related to diversity and inclusion, and admissions policies will not be affected. However, diversity and inclusion advocates argue that the new Texas law will have a chilling effect on larger efforts to bring students of color into Texas schools and keep them there. The New York Times reported a warning from the Texas Conference of the American Association of University Professors, which argues that the new law will tell prospective college students that our state is not committed to welcoming students from all backgrounds and to building a public higher education system that is truly inclusive and supportive of all. Republican rollback of diversity initiatives The move by Texas is the latest Republican effort to roll back or restrict DEI initiatives in education and other areas of public life. DEI initiatives have been implemented in colleges, universities, corporations and other institutions around the country, especially in the immediate aftermath of the protests over the murder of George Floyd in 2020. These initiatives, however, have been followed by a conservative backlash, with Republicans in various states passing or proposing legislation to roll back or outright ban DEI efforts. The Associated Press has been tracking dozens of anti-DEI laws proposed this year alone. In addition to Texas, states that have proposed such legislation include Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah and West Virginia. Some of these bills prevent universities from making DEI training mandatory, while others restrict any state funding from going to DEI offices. Florida has been a pioneer in this regard. Under Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, the state passed the harshest anti-DEI laws in the country. DeSantis anti-woke legislation has attacked not only DEI initiatives that relate to hiring and employee training, but it also severely restricts discussions of race, racism and other forms of identity and discrimination within public classrooms. The policies have led to restrictions on texts as innocuous as Amanda Gormans presidential inauguration poem. The NAACP recently issued a travel warning against Florida, citing the harsh legal climate there for Black people and other minority communities; Texas Democratic legislator Ron Reynolds told his fellow state legislators not to let Texas be the next state to get a travel advisory as they debated the anti-DEI bill. As DeSantis begins his campaign for president of the United States, he has pledged to take his anti-woke agenda nationwide, a move that is likely to embolden more Republican officials to push anti-DEI legislation. DeSantis and Abbott have been at the forefront of championing restrictive legislation, and these conservative leaders appear poised to expand their efforts, with dire consequences for already marginalized populations in their states and around the nation. Texas considers 2 plans to cut your property taxes. Which one will save you the most? Texas top Republican lawmakers are sparing over cutting property taxes. Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Patrick and House Speaker Dade Phelan all agree the reductions are needed, especially given Texas nearly $33 billion budget surplus, but Patrick and Phelan for months have had different ideas on the best way to deliver. The House and Senate didnt come to an agreement by the end of the day Monday when both chambers adjourned their regular sessions, but the lawmakers were warned to stay close: A special session was coming. Just hours later, Abbott called what is expected to be the first of several special sessions during which lawmakers take up policy areas of the governors choosing. It began immediately, and by the end of Tuesday, both chambers had acted fast and passed their tax cut proposals. The House went a step further when it adjourned without taking up the Senates proposal and with their bill now in the upper chamber. So whats proposed? What is Gov. Abbott asking for? Over the past several months, Patrick has called for increasing the homestead exemption, while Phelan has favored lowering the states appraisal cap for all properties. Abbott has called for property tax cut, but for the most part, hadnt weighed in publicly on which plan he preferred. But Abbotts preference for the delivery of property tax cuts came into focus on Monday night when he called lawmakers back to Austin to make tax cuts and told them specifically how he wants the savings done. Lawmakers should pass legislation to cut property-tax rates solely by reducing the school district maximum compressed tax, he said in his special session proclamation. That means directing state dollars to school districts to lower their property tax rates, which are set locally. What are the House and Senate proposing? The Houses property tax plan passed Tuesday would reduce school property tax rates by an additional 16 cents, a savings of $485 for the owner of a $350,000 home in the Fort Worth school district. The measure is subject to voter approval as a constitutional amendment. His special session call gave us clear-cut direction to buy down property taxes using tax compression, and the passage of todays legislation fulfills that call, Phelan said in a statement. The Senate proposes a combination of lowering school property tax rates and increasing the states homestead exemption, which is $40,000. Those who are 65 or older or disabled can qualify for an additional $10,000. Were the Senates bill made law, tax rates would be cut by 10 an additional cents and the homestead exemption raised to $100,000. That plan would save the owner of a $350,000 home in the Fort Worth school district $1,019. The plan must also be approved by voters as a constitutional amendment. I have been committed to fighting back against the wave of ever-increasing property taxes since before I held elected office, Patrick said in a statement. The combination of a substantial homestead exemption and property tax compression is a very powerful way to deliver serious property tax relief. School tax rates are already expected to be cut by about 11 cents as a result of 2019 legislation, Sen. Paul Bettencourt, a Houston Republican who authored the senates tax, plan said on the floor Tuesday. That savings of 11 cents translates to $342 for the owner of that $350,000 in the Fort Worth school district. What has Abbott said? Abbott on Tuesday expressed support for the Houses plan and shared a letter from homeowner, business and consumer groups that approve. The Texas House is the only chamber that passed a property tax cut bill that is germane to the special session that I called to provide Texans with property tax relief, Abbott said in a Tuesday statement, later adding, I look forward to signing it when it reaches my desk. But Patrick has stayed firm that the Senates proposal is the best route and more beneficial to homeowners. In a statement shared on Twitter, he said while the Governor has the sole authority to call the Legislature into Session, the Legislature writes the bills. I stand by our bill. It is germane to the call legal precedent is clear on this point, Patrick said. Something Governor Abbott and Speaker Phelan should remember for any bill to pass, it must go through both the House AND the Senate. Whats next? With the House adjourned, the the Senates proposal is dead. Bills must pass both chambers, and in the House there arent any lawmakers to pass it. The House has sent its property tax measures to the Senate, but the Senate cannot make changes to the legislation without it going back to an empty House chamber for approval. Any changes, the bill is dead. That leaves the Senate with two options: Pass the houses property tax plan or dont and risk being called back for another special session on tax cuts. The chamber next meets at 10 a.m. Friday. If the House thinks after abandoning the Capitol , and walking out on the Special Session, the Senate is going to pass their take it or leave it property tax bill without a homestead exemption, they are mistaken, Patrick said in a Wednesday afternoon Twitter post. Fox News The tentative deal raising the debt ceiling that President Joe Biden and House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) agreed to over the weekend hasnt won over far-right Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX), who complained Tuesday that its milquetoastan apparent nod to former President Donald Trumps criticism earlier that night of Fox News guest host Kayleigh McEnany. McEnany, filling in on The Ingraham Angle, asked Roy what he considers a realistic alternative to the deal, which would raise the current $31.4 trillion debt ceiling until January 2025. It would also, among other things, cut about $20 billion in IRS funding and put in place new work requirements for some individuals on food stamps and those in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. Everything that were seeing out of this deal hatched this weekend is pretty milquetoast, if that word might mean something to you, Roy said, just a few hours after Trump wrote a misspelled Truth Social post directed at McEnany, whom he called Milktoast. In the post, Trump accused his former White House press secretary of giving out the wrong poll numbers on Jesse Watters Primetime while discussing his lead in Iowa over Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. I am 34 points up on DeSanctimonious, not 25 up, Trump claimed. She knew the number was corrected upwards by the group that did the poll. The RINOS & Globalists can have her. FoxNews should only use REAL Stars!!! Its unclear which poll McEnany and Trump are referring to, though an Emerson College poll from last Thursday (before DeSantis announced his candidacy) found Trump leading by 42 points. Interestingly, Roy endorsed DeSantis over Trump back in March. As to the contents of the tentative deal, Roy explained: The real problem we face is the $4 trillion in debt, and theyve pushed this thing up to Jan. 1, 2025 with an uncapped amount which we think will be about $4 trillion. And we didnt sign up to basically free spending for $4 trillion in debt, he said. The alternative is pretty simple: you have about $28 or $29 billion in COVID funds, you have $80 billion in IRS moneyall of us agreed it should go away, he continued. The No. 1 thing we campaigned on was getting rid of that IRS money. Earlier Tuesday, the debt ceiling deal passed the House Rules Committee, where Roy is a member, and is now headed to the full House. The deal must also pass in the Senate and be signed into law before the Monday default deadline. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. By Brad Brooks (Reuters) - Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Wednesday appointed an interim attorney general to fill in for Ken Paxton, who was impeached last week on allegations of corruption and other irregularities. Abbott said in a written statement that he had appointed John Scott, an attorney and former Texas secretary of state under Abbott, as interim attorney general. Scott also served as the Texas deputy attorney general for civil litigation from 2012 to 2015, during Abbott's own final term as attorney general. Paxton, 60, by law was suspended from his attorney general post after he was impeached by the Texas House of Representatives on Saturday. The Texas Senate will try Paxton on the 20 articles of impeachment lodged against him. If two-thirds of the 31 senators find him guilty, he will be removed from office. If not, he will be reinstated. The Senate has said Paxton's trial will begin no later than Aug. 28. Paxton's wife, Angela, is as a senator and chair of the Republican caucus in the chamber; she has yet to say whether she will recuse herself from his trial. Allegations of wrongdoing have long dogged Paxton, who was first elected as attorney general in 2014 and has maintained his innocence, saying his detractors are politically motivated. Paxton was indicted in 2015 by state prosecutors on three felony securities fraud charges. Paxton says he is innocent. No trial has taken place amid repeated procedural delays. The Texas court of criminal appeals is weighing what the venue of any trial should be. Paxton is also under a separate corruption investigation by the Justice Department, according to the special prosecutors in Texas leading his state case. The Justice Department did not respond to requests for comment. Paxton's impeachment was triggered by his office's request that the House fund a $3.3 million lawsuit settlement he reached with four whistleblowers from his office. The former high-ranking aides to Paxton accused him in 2020 of corruption. They filed a lawsuit against him after being fired. (Reporting by Brad Brooks in Lubbock, Texas; Editing by Daniel Wallis) The federal Texas prison where Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes will spend the next 11 years offers business classes, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Federal Prison Camp (FPC) Bryan in Bryan, Texas, about 100 miles outside of Houston, offers various educational programs for inmates, including "Administrative Assistant, Small Business, Medical Transcription and Coding, Accounting Technology" certificate programs, according to an employee handbook. All inmates at FPC Bryan, which houses mostly white-collar criminals, are required to have a job for at least three months and can take a test to determine which job is the best fit for them. Detainees also have daily chores, such as mopping and making their beds, the handbook states. INMATES HOPE TO BEFRIEND THERANOS FOUNDER ELIZABETH HOLMES AHEAD OF HER ARRIVAL AT TEXAS PRISON Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes will spend the next 11 years at a federal prison in Bryan, Texas. Employees cannot, however, conduct a business without "staff authorization" at the prison. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP REAL HOUSEWIVES STAR JEN SHAH TO SERVE PRISON TIME: CELEBRITY LAWYER ON WHAT REALITY STARS FACE BEHIND BARS FPC also houses "Housewives of Salt Lake City" star Jen Shah, who was sentenced to 6.5 years in prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud in a telemarketing scheme targeting elderly victims. FPC also houses "Housewives of Salt Lake City" star Jen Shah, who was sentenced to 6.5 years in prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud in a telemarketing scheme targeting elderly victims. "Hotpockets" heiress Michelle Janavs served five months at FPC for her role in the college admissions or "Varsity Blues" scandal of 2019. ELIZABETH HOLMES LOSES BID TO REMAIN OUT OF PRISON DURING APPEAL Another noteable inmate includes former Hidalgo County Commissioner Sylvia Hanby-Espronceda, who fraudulently hired and employed illegal immigrants for childcare and housekeeping services at the county's expense, according to the Justice Department. Holmes, a 39-year-old mother of two, was sentenced to 11 years in prison and ordered to pay $452 million in restitution to financiers for duping investors out of hundreds of millions of dollars by lying about her biotech start-up Theranos. The company, which was once valued in the billions, falsely claimed that it invented a machine that could run complex tests with just one drop of blood. All inmates at FPC Bryan, which houses mostly white-collar criminals, are required to have a job for at least three months and can take a test to determine which job is the best fit for them. "Some people are like, I want to be her friend," FPC inmate Tasha Wade told The Wall Street Journal . "But other people are like, I cant believe thats all she got for taking all that money." The Federal Bureau of Prisons spokesman told the Journal that the average inmate serves 14 months just a little over one-tenth of Holmes' sentence. Fox News' Kassy Dillon contributed. A prayer altar in the main gathering hall at the temple Wat Ratchapradit in Bangkok, Thailand. Pictures from History/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Theravada, which means the way of the elders, is one of the two main schools of Buddhism. Its adherents consider Theravada to be the most authoritative branch because they believe their teachings come directly from the historical Buddha. As a scholar of Buddhism, I explain in my 2023 book Living Theravada: Demystifying the People, Places and Practices of a Buddhist Tradition that Theravada Buddhism has a number of distinguishing features. Its canonical literature is preserved in the ancient language of Pali, while other branches use Sanskrit, Chinese and Tibetan. An important ritual for Theravada monks includes collecting alms every morning. Another cultural feature in mainland Southeast Asia is that young men can enter into monastic life for a short time and return to lay life. Most often they do this as young boys, but a male at any age can become ordained for any length of time. Early development A combination of factors helped Theravada Buddhism take root first in Sri Lanka and then mainland Southeast Asia: Buddhism arrived in the region from India in the second century B.C.E. through the teachings of pilgrims, traveling monks and scholars who impressed local populations with the cosmopolitan nature of Buddhist culture. Kings and kingdoms became deeply engaged with those ideas. Buddhism gave rulers a cosmic framework in which the kings had a central place and carried the responsibility to protect and support the Buddhist teachings. Monks acted as advisers and supporters to monarchs because the monastic institution depended on the success and sponsorship of the royalty. Theravada monks collect alms from lay Buddhists during their morning rounds. Sunphol Sorakul/Moment via Getty Images Besides monks, lay people could become involved with Buddhism in various ways. Women especially were valued as caregivers who supported the monastery through material offerings. As Theravada became the dominant religious system within parts of South and Southeast Asia, it encompassed older Indigenous spirit traditions rather than degrading or purging them. This adaptation rather than competition allowed for Theravada Buddhism to become a cultural force in these regions. The scriptures The Pali Canon, which records what are believed to be the Buddhas words, is divided into three parts, called the Tipitaka, or the Three Baskets: (1) the Sutta Pitaka, collections of stories and poetry expressing the Buddhas teachings; (2) the Vinaya Pitaka, stories and discussions regarding the rules of monks; and (3) the Abhidhamma Pitaka, the philosophical and metaphysical explanation of Buddhist teachings and concepts. These texts passed through oral recitation and memory shortly after the Buddhas death, around the fifth century B.C.E. At that time the oral canon is believed to have been established with a gathering of 500 enlightened monks at the First Buddhist Council, held in modern-day India. By the first century B.C.E., the Pali Canon formed a fixed collection of written texts. Diversity in the tradition Practitioners following the Theravada tradition form part of the Buddhist diaspora throughout the world, but countries with a majority population of Theravada Buddhists live in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Within these countries there is a rich diversity of traditions in Theravada Buddhism. Myanmar is known for popularizing a form of meditation called vipassana, or insight meditation; Thai Buddhists are considered to be holders of the orthodox tradition through their preservation of the monastic rules; Cambodia has a reputation for magical and supernatural expertise; Lao Buddhism is closely connected to spirits; and Sri Lankan religious practice is integrated with Hindu gods and demons. These distinctions only begin to reveal a rich diversity of traditions underneath the surface. Theravada Buddhist beliefs and practices are more than monastic lineages and meditation techniques. The tradition offers a spectrum of spiritual resources to accommodate a variety of peoples wants, needs and aspirations. This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. If you found it interesting, you could subscribe to our weekly newsletter. It was written by: Brooke Schedneck, Rhodes College. Read more: Brooke Schedneck 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. Jam Master Jay On Tuesday (May 30), federal prosecutors in New York indicted a third man in the killing of Run-DMCs DJ Jam Master Jay. Jay Bryant, 49, is already in custody due to separate and what are said to be unrelated drug charges. He is now accused of the DJs murder while engaged in narcotics trafficking. In an email to The New York Times, Bryants attorney, Cesar de Castro, said that his client would be pleading not guilty. Securing an indictment in a secret grand jury, applying an extremely low burden of proof, is one thing, the message read. Proving it at trial is another matter. As previously reported by REVOLT, two others, Ronald Washington and Karl Jordan, were charged with Jam Master Jays murder in 2020. Seth DuCharme, who was the acting attorney for eastern New York at that time, stated Washington and Jordan fatally shot the hip hop legend in his recording studio in 2002 over a drug-related conflict. They walked in and murdered him in cold blood, DuCharme claimed. Now, the prosecution believes that Bryant was also present at that studio, as clothing with his DNA was reportedly found at the scene. The indictment continued by stating that Bryant later admitted to participating in the crime and, at one point, told an unknown person that he was the shooter. Shortly after the initial charges were announced years ago, the family of the fallen talent whose real name was Jason Mizell shared an official statement expressing mixed emotions over the news. We truly hope that these indictments are a solid step towards justice being served in the murder of Jay, the family wrote on social media. We realize that there are other families out there who have lingering pain who continue to wait for their own closure, and we pray that this case gives them hope. Trending Stories Two boys, 8 and 9, and 19-year-old man dead in Lebanon City shooting Officials hold press conference to update residents about a triple homicide on N. 5th Street Tuesday evening. Posted by Lebanon Daily News on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 Two male children, 8 and 9, and one 19-year-old male, were killed in a Lebanon City shooting last night, Mayor Sherry Capello and Police Chief Bret Fisher said at a news conference Wednesday morning at city hall. Police were dispatched around 10:06 p.m. to the 400 block of North 5th Street for a report of gunshots. When police arrived, they found four people with gunshot wounds. The mayor's office identified the victims as: Joshua Lugo-Perez, 19, of Lebanon Jesus Perez-Salome, 8, of Lebanon Sebastian Perez-Salome, 9, of Lebanon A 33-year-old man was also injured in the shooting. Fisher said the victims were not all related, and other people were living in the residence at the time of the shooting. He was identified as Luis Cancel of Lebanon. "It appears, at the early stages of this investigation, that one of the victims was targeted," Fisher said. "The other three victims were uninvolved." Two male children, ages 8 and 9, and one 19-year-old male, were killed shooting on the 400 block of N. 5th St. Tuesday night, Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello and Police Chief Bret Fisher said at a news conference Wednesday at city hall. One was transported to a Lebanon County Medical facility where he later died. Another was transported to a Dauphin County Medical facility where he later died. One was pronounced dead at the scene The 8- and 9-year-old victims were Lebanon School District students, and the mayor said the district was informed of the homicides last night. Officials said one person was targeted in the attack but did not say which individual. "These shootings are unacceptable. As a mom, I cannot overstated how heartbroken I am for the families," Capello said. "I cannot imagine what these families are going through right now. It is unimaginable. As the mayor, I am heartbroken for our community. We do not want to see any gun violence in our city, and certainly not among our children." Another person was transported to a Lebanon County medical facility by a private vehicle and later taken by ambulance to a Dauphin County medical facility where they underwent surgery. Police say that person is recovering as of Wednesday morning. The Lebanon County SWAT team executed a search warrant on North 9th St. Wednesday morning for a person of interest in the case, with Fisher saying that one person was taken into custody for an unrelated matter. "That situation is currently evolving," Fisher said at the morning press conference. Officials did not release the names of the suspect or the victims. The Lebanon City Police Department, the Lebanon County District Attorney's Office and Detective Bureau, the Pennsylvania State Police and other Lebanon County police departments assisted in the investigation. Lebanon City Police were dispatched Tuesday night to the area of North Cherry St and Garrett St for reported gunshots. When police arrived they located 4 subjects with gunshot wounds at this 422 N. 5th S. apartment house. Residents in the area described hearing "fireworks" before police responded to the scene. "Around 10 o'clock, I heard banging, I thought someone was banging on the door," said Stacy Baltimore, a neighbor on North 5th Street. "Here it turned out to be gunshots. After that the cops showed up, they taped off everything, and around 11 o'clock rescue vehicles came up and started investigating." "Police continued to work the case though the night and are continuing following up on information that has been developed this morning," officials said in a news release. "The investigation is very active." Lebanon City Police were dispatched Tuesday night to the area of North Cherry St and Garrett St for reported gunshots. When police arrived they located 4 subjects with gunshot wounds, along with vehicles with gunshot holes. Baltimore said he doesn't usually see police on the north side of the city, adding that residents feel they need to patrol themselves. "It'd be nice for them to come through twice a week, three times a week," he said. "I've asked to no avail." More: Restaurant inspections: 'Evidence of rodent activity' in storage areas among violations More: Cheesesteaks! Here are the six biggest, juiciest, tastiest sandwiches in Lebanon The department is focused on the investigation of the shooting, but Fisher said he would be willing to hear residents' concerns about police presence in the future. "I need to get this incident resolved and an arrest made, and then I'll be more than glad to hear the citizens' concerns about police presence on that street," he said. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Lebanon City Police Department at (717) 272-6611 or Crime Stoppers at (717) 270-9800. This investigation is ongoing. Please check back with the Lebanon Daily News for updates. Matthew Toth is a reporter for the Lebanon Daily News. Reach him at mtoth@ldnews.com or on Twitter at @DAMattToth. This article originally appeared on Lebanon Daily News: Two boys, 8 & 9, and 19-year-old man dead in Lebanon shooting Three women in 2017 escaped from the Texas prison where disgraced former Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes is serving her sentence. One of the women, Edith Lara, still hasn't been found, according to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. Holmes, who lost her fight to remain free while appealing her convictions, reported to prison Tuesday to begin her 11-year sentence at Federal Prison Camp (FPC) Bryan one of the Bureau of Prisons' seven minimum security prisons. These work and program-oriented facilities house inmates deemed a low security risk by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. Theranos' founder Elizabeth Holmes (C) arrives, flanked by prison officials, at the Federal Prison Camp in Bryan, Texas, on May 30, 2023. / Credit: MARK FELIX via Getty Images On Saturday, May 27, 2017, at approximately 10:15 p.m., inmates Edith Lara, Ysenia Frausto and Brenda Rosas were discovered missing from the FPC Bryan in Bryan, Texas, the prison said in a news release at the time. All three women were serving time for drug charges. Frausto was convicted of intent to distribute cocaine and possession of methamphetamine, while Rosas was convicted of intent to import methamphetamine, according to court documents. Two days after the escape, Frausto was captured near Midland, Texas, according to the U.S. Marshals Service Offices in Houston. Rosas was also eventually taken back into custody, according to court records. Rosa and Frausto were each charged with escaping from federal custody and aiding and abetting each others' escapes, according to a federal indictment filed in the Southern Texas District Court. Edith Lara is still listed as escaped on the Bureau of Prison website. A request to the U.S. Marshals office in Texas for an update on Lara's fugitive status was not returned immediately. FPC Bryan has limited or no perimeter fencing on its 37 acres of land, according to the BOP's website. Martin Horn, the former corrections commissioner for New York and Pennsylvania, said corrections is a "tough job" and monitoring unfenced perimeters is one of the most "challenging" parts. Inmates can just walk off the property if the perimeter is not properly monitored or maintained, he said, and the current correction staffing shortage can lead to these incidents happening more frequently. Last year, four prisoners escaped from a minimum security prison in Hopewell, Virginia. The number of annual escapes from federal prisons is not "readily available," a Bureau of Prison spokesperson told CBS News. Statistics on federal and state prisons are difficult to come by, as each system has its own definition of an escape and records the data accordingly. What NASA's UFO hearing revealed Job market remains strong, Labor Department data shows Why Nvidia's chips are so important for AI Experts and participants of the Eighth ASEAN School on Plasma and Nuclear Fusion 2023 pose for a group photo, in Nakhon Nayok, Thailand, on May 29, 2023. Experts from seven countries, including China, joined a training session on plasma and nuclear fusion technology this week for researchers and students from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and neighboring countries in the central Thai province of Nakhon Nayok. The Eighth ASEAN School on Plasma and Nuclear Fusion 2023, which started on Monday, is a five-day program held by the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT). (Photo by Tim Santasombat/Xinhua) BANGKOK, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Experts from seven countries, including China, joined a training session on plasma and nuclear fusion technology this week for researchers and students from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and neighboring countries in the central Thai province of Nakhon Nayok. The Eighth ASEAN School on Plasma and Nuclear Fusion 2023, which started on Monday, is a five-day program held by the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT). The training session "is one way to build a larger pool of talented young minds to engage in harnessing the fusion energy," Thawatchai Onjun, executive director of TINT, said at the opening ceremony. TINT plans to be "a gateway to internship for the collaborating institutions and be an ASEAN hub for advanced tokamak-based research and development," he said. A giant tokamak, an experimental machine in which an ultra-high temperature plasma can be created to simulate the conditions for fusion reactions, arrived in Thailand in January from Hefei, the capital of east China's Anhui Province. As the first tokamak in Thailand, the device, renamed Thailand Tokamak 1, has just finished installing with joint efforts from TINT and the Institute of Plasma Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP), Somsak Dangtip, manager of advanced engineering and nuclear technology center of TINT, told Xinhua. According to a cooperation agreement signed in 2017, the ASIPP would donate the tokamak to TINT, help the country install and operate the facility and cultivate talent in the field of fusion energy research and development. "The ASIPP intends to continue collaborating and developing jointly on the peaceful utilization of fusion with ASEAN countries in the future," ASIPP Deputy Director General Hu Jiansheng told Xinhua. More than 80 participants from five countries, including Thailand, Nepal, Japan, Indonesia and Vietnam, attended the training session. The first ASEAN school on plasma and nuclear fusion was held in Pathum Thani Province in central Thailand in January 2015. Participants of the Eighth ASEAN School on Plasma and Nuclear Fusion 2023 visit Thailand Tokamak 1, in Nakhon Nayok, Thailand, on May 29, 2023. Experts from seven countries, including China, joined a training session on plasma and nuclear fusion technology this week for researchers and students from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and neighboring countries in the central Thai province of Nakhon Nayok. The Eighth ASEAN School on Plasma and Nuclear Fusion 2023, which started on Monday, is a five-day program held by the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT). (Photo by Tim Santasombat/Xinhua) Hu Jiansheng, Deputy Director General of the Institute of Plasma Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP), gives a lecture at the Eighth ASEAN School on Plasma and Nuclear Fusion 2023, in Nakhon Nayok, Thailand, on May 29, 2023. Experts from seven countries, including China, joined a training session on plasma and nuclear fusion technology this week for researchers and students from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and neighboring countries in the central Thai province of Nakhon Nayok. The Eighth ASEAN School on Plasma and Nuclear Fusion 2023, which started on Monday, is a five-day program held by the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT). (Photo by Tim Santasombat/Xinhua) Tia Mowry says she's marking her new era with a new haircut. "Theres something so bittersweet about a nice chop," she wrote on Instagram May 30, with five pictures showing off a shortly cropped haircut that's slightly longer in the front. The cut complements her curly hair and frames her face. "It feels like a release of old memories, both good & bad, but also, an exciting start to a new era," she continued. "Im ready to embark on this chapter of my journey, and everyone knows that theres nothing more monumental to mark it with than a fresh cut," she said. Tia Mowry (@tiamowry via Instagram) The 44-year-old actor did not specify which life chapter she's in right now. On Instagram last week, she said she's "learning to not be a people pleaser." "Im realizing that walking in my authenticity is all that matters to me," she said. In January, she launched 4U, a hair care line for curly textures. In April, she finalized her divorce from her former husband, Cory Hardrict, whom she was married to for 14 years. The "Sister Sister" actor is known for her thick, curly hair. During the pandemic, she was one of many celebrities who posted pictures of her gray, undyed hair. She wrote an essay for InStyle last year and said growing up, she didn't see that representation on screen. Growing up, there were just no visuals or representation of someone who looked like me Black girl with curly hair, she wrote. All I saw being showcased was blonde, straight hair, blue eyes, white skin. And there was little to no visibility for women of a certain age. She said going gray is a privilege to her. There are so many people on a daily basis that are not making it to the age where their hair starts to gray," she said. "And so when I see my gray hair, it actually is a blessing because it means that, yes, Im getting older and Im still here. I dont take that lightly I really, really dont. She said what's beautiful about social media is it brings all the curly-haired girls together to create a community of champions that may not otherwise exist. There was this amazing community of curly girls, and just Black women celebrating all the various textures and colors of their hair at every age," she said, referring to how social media brought them together. "It changed my perspective on what beauty actually was and how it could be defined, she wrote. This article was originally published on TODAY.com TikToker Mizzy claims breach of police order was not his fault Mizzy A teenager claimed he breached a criminal behaviour order banning him from visiting Westfield Stratford City shopping centre because he wasnt given a map of the area. Bacari-Bronze OGarro, 18, also known as Mizzy, appeared at Thames Magistrates Court in London on Tuesday morning and was given conditional bail, a court official said. He was handed the order last Wednesday following a series of social media videos featuring him storming into a family home and stealing a pensioners dog on TikTok. He was released and was banned from posting videos without the consent of the people featured. However the next day he allegedly filmed people without consent and visited Westfield Stratford City shopping centre which he was also prohibited to do under the order. He was arrested for breaching the order and charged on Friday. He denied the charges when he appeared before Thames Magistrates on Saturday but was remanded in custody over the Bank Holiday weekend. Although the case was listed for 2pm at Thames Magistrates Court on Tuesday, it was moved forward to 10am after the defence arrived early, so no press were present. However a court clerk read out a note of the proceedings to press later on in which his defence Alexandra Darke suggested Piers Morgan had baited him when he appeared on his show. According to court officials, Ms Darke said: He is a young prankster, he was antagonised by Piers Morgan. She reportedly added he wasnt aware of the perimeters of the Westfield ban when he broke it, but knows them now. Speaking outside court, OGarro said the breach of the CBO was not his fault. He said: I explained to the court that I didnt know the breach was on my terms because they didnt give me the map for the CBO around Westfield and stuff like that, so hopefully that gets bust. I need to alternate the conditions on my thing (the CBO). OGarros trial date was set for July 19 at Stratford Magistrates Court, the court official said. 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. The top U.S. Border Patrol official announced Tuesday he will retire from federal service next month, opening a vacancy in the leadership of an agency charged with managing the record levels of migrant crossings reported along the southern border over the past two years. Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz, a three-decade veteran of the agency, said he would leave his post at the end of June, according to an internal message he shared with colleagues. Officials at Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Border Patrol's umbrella agency, also confirmed the departure. Ortiz has led Border Patrol since the summer of 2021, when the previous chief, Rodney Scott, now a vocal critic of the Biden administration's policies at the U.S.-Mexico border, was pushed out. Ortiz had served as deputy Border Patrol chief during the Trump administration. After his promotion in 2021, Ortiz became a major figure in the government's efforts to address an unprecedented migration crisis along the U.S.-Mexico border, where mass displacement in crisis-stricken countries and perceptions of more welcoming U.S. policies fueled record migrant arrivals. Ortiz had to manage significant dissent and frustration among rank-and-file Border Patrol agents, many of whom disagreed with the Biden administration's move to reverse some Trump-era border controls, including a policy that forced asylum-seekers to wait in squalid Mexican tent camps while the U.S. reviewed their cases. In a statement Tuesday, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas noted Ortiz was planning to retire when he was asked to take the helm of Border Patrol in 2021. Convincing Ortiz to postpone his retirement, Mayorkas said, "was among the most important decisions I have made." "The Border Patrol is stronger, and our nation is more secure, thanks to his leadership. I will miss his candor, our thought partnership, and our friendship," Mayorkas added. It's unclear who Mayorkas and DHS leadership will tap to replace Ortiz. U.S. Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz attends a press conference on May 5, 2023 in Brownsville, Texas. / Credit: / Getty Images With more than 19,000 agents, Border Patrol is charged with intercepting the illicit entry of drugs and migrants along the Mexican and Canadian borders, as well as some coastal sectors, such as south Florida. But it has been along the U.S.-Mexico border that Border Patrol has faced the most acute challenges in recent years. In fiscal year 2022, Border Patrol recorded 2.2 million migrant apprehensions, an all-time high that surpassed the previous record set in 2021. Ortiz remained in his post long enough to oversee the discontinuation of the Title 42 pandemic-era border rule, which, for over three years, allowed his agents to cite public health concerns to quickly turn back migrants without processing their asylum claims. While the number of unlawful border crossings soared to record levels in the days leading up to Title 42's end on May 11, migrant arrivals subsequently plummeted, defying predictions that the policy's end would trigger a massive increase in migration. Since the end of Title 42, the Biden administration has been increasing formal deportations, which can include a five-year banishment from the U.S. It is also implementing a regulation that renders migrants ineligible for asylum if they cross into the U.S. illegally after not seeking refuge in another country first. Those measures have been paired with a dramatic expansion in opportunities for migrants to enter the U.S. legally, including through a phone app-powered process for asylum-seekers in Mexico and a program for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans who have American sponsors. In his message to employees Tuesday, Ortiz said serving as Border Patrol chief had been "one of the greatest honors and privileges" of his life. "I leave at ease, knowing we have a tremendous uniformed and professional workforce, strong relationships with our union partners, and outstanding leaders who will continue to tirelessly advocate for you each day," he added. Mike Pence to announce 2024 presidential run on June 7 Sen. Rick Scott says he can't support debt ceiling bill Schumer says debt ceiling bill isn't perfect but spares America from "a catastrophic default" Toyota is set to begin assembling a new battery electric SUV at its manufacturing plant in Georgetown, the company announced Wednesday. Starting in 2025, Toyota Kentucky will begin assembling a new, three-row, battery electric SUV, Toyota said. Toyota said the Kentucky plant will lead the companys carbon reduction efforts with this new initiative to assemble the electric vehicles. The new vehicle advances the companys commitment to vehicle electrification and moves to reduce its carbon emissions, Toyota said. This vehicle will be the companys first U.S.-assembled battery electric vehicle, and it will use batteries from a new Toyota battery manufacturing plant North Carolina. The North Carolina plant begins battery production in 2025, Toyota said. Toyota Kentucky set the standard for Toyota vehicle manufacturing in the U.S. and now were leading the charge with BEVs, Susan Elkington, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, said in a news release. Our incredible team of Kentuckians is excited to take on this new challenge while delivering the same great quality and reliability that our customers expect. According to Elkington, employment at Toyota Kentucky is not expected to change, and current production will continue as retooling for the new vehicle assembly begins. Toyota is also investing $2.1 billion in its North Carolina battery manufacturing plant to support production for the lithium-ion batteries needed for electrified vehicles, Toyota said. There will be six battery production lines at the plant in Liberty, four lines for hybrid electric vehicles and two for battery electric vehicles. Toyota Kentucky will also implement a new battery pack assembly process for the battery cells from Liberty to go in, Elkington said. Elkington said Toyota is committed to achieving carbon neutrality and renewable energy is needed to make that possible. The $591 million investment will support Kentuckys economic development and ensure 700 jobs at the Georgetown facility, Gov. Andy Beshear said on social media. This is incredible news that furthers Kentucky as the center of the electric vehicle sector, Beshear said in a news release. Toyota has long been a vital part of the automotive industry in the commonwealth, and now the company is positioned to help lead us into the future. A high school student was struck and killed by a commuter rail train in Whitman on Tuesday night, officials announced Wednesday. Emergency crews responding to a report of a train crash at the MBTA Whitman Station around 8:30 p.m. learned a pedestrian had been fatally struck by a southbound train, according to Whitman Police Chief Timothy Hanlon and Fire Chief Timothy Clancy. The victim was identified as a Whitman-Hanson Regional High School student. Her name wasnt made public out of respect to her family. We are all tremendously saddened to hear of this tragic loss. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends of this student and all those who knew them, Superintendent Jeffrey Szymaniak said in a statement. We also extend our condolences to our friends at East Bridgewater High School, who were also affected by this tragedy. Szymaniak noted that grief counselors are available and will remain available in the coming weeks to assist students and staff as the district mourns. Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the Plymouth District Attorneys Office and MBTA Transit Police are investigating the crash. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Transitioning out of the military? Heres your checklist and timeline Deciding to leave the military might be as big a step as deciding to join. Most of us come in when were young, naive, and unprepared. When we get out were just as unprepared. Most of us. It doesnt have to be that way, though. You had what it took to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. You certainly have what it takes to support you and your dependents. You just have to be smart about it and ask the right questions. Will you be getting a civilian job, and if so, will it be the same thing that you did in the military? Is remote work for you? Or will you go to school? Where will you do these things? How will you prepare to pay for them while you wait for benefits? Do you know how to get into the VA system? No matter what your answers are, there are things you need to do in the two years leading up to your departure from the military that will ensure a smooth and successful experience. Two Years to 18 Months from Expiration - Term of Service (ETS): Find a mentor who has faced the same problems you will likely face. Choose your civilian career and make sure youll leave the military with an education or a certified skill that will help you in that career. Learn about your G.I. Bill and decide what you plan to do with it. Start to save money and be prepared for the possibility of a tight job market when you get out. Start to build a network by meeting people in your desired career field or college. One Year Out: Review your pre-separation budget and make sure youre on track. If youre going to school after leaving, choose where, what to study, and start applying. Learn about both VA home loans and the process of buying a house. If youre moving to a new area, you might be able to get house hunting orders. Begin the process of getting out of the military, which includes informing your unit and command while starting relevant paperwork and taking transition assistance classes. You may even be assigned a counselor. Six Months to Go: Make sure your budget projections still make sense. Write a resume, preferably with the assistance of a career counselor, and use it in your job search. Be sure to show this to your transition mentor and your civilian career mentor, too. Request your last household good shipment. The military will pack up and send your belongings to your new location or home of record one last time. Consider your post-military health care options. Unless your conditions are service-connected, your coverage will end. If you have a new employer who offers health care, enroll in that. You can also find health care coverage through the Affordable Care Act website. Tricare offers temporary health care coverage for newly-separated members under the Continued Health Care Benefit Program (CHCBP) and Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP). Update your wardrobe, leaning on your career mentor and the professional network youve been developing. Decide where youll roll your military blended retirement savings. For plans worth less than $100,000, consider a fiduciary app like Wealthfront. Update your important documents while its still free. Start your household goods shipments and other PCS/ETS procedures. Three Months Left: Begin working on your VA compensation claim paperwork. Declare everything on your outgoing medical exam. Your duty station and Veterans Service Organizations (like the DAV) will assist with this process. Some states have offices to help veterans get this done. Review your budget one last time to ensure its still good to go. No matter your age, review your life insurance options, especially Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) vs. Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI). Get copies of your medical and dental records to keep. Visit your doctor for free one last time. One Month Out: Choose your health insurance. Know your home states veterans benefits. Stay on top of your VA disability claim. Keep looking for work, using job fairs, LinkedIn, and other websites. Meet with your schools veterans benefits office. This can all be overwhelming if you wait until the last minute to do everything. Remember that staying proactive and ensuring you arrive at each point when youre supposed to will keep you from losing your mind as your ETS date approaches. Then youll really be able to celebrate a job well done. Read the full transition guide online here. Tree of Life synagogue A gunman who killed 11 worshippers at a Pittsburgh synagogue, in the deadliest antisemitic attack in US history acted with "malice and hatred", a court has heard. Prosecutors described how the attacker barged into the synagogue in 2018 and shot every worshipper he could find. His "malice and hate can only be proven in the broken bodies" of the victims, said the lead prosecutor. If convicted, Robert Bowers, 50, could get the death penalty. Eight men and three women - ranging in age from 54 to 97 - died in the attack inside the Tree of Life synagogue on 27 October 2018. The gunman, who has pleaded not guilty, is on trial for more than 60 federal charges including obstruction of free exercise of religion resulting in death and hate crimes resulting in death. The defendant's lawyers had offered to plead guilty on all counts, in exchange for a sentence of life in prison instead of the death penalty, but federal prosecutors rejected such a deal. Most families of those killed have voiced support for the death penalty. "The defendant had moved methodically through the synagogue to find the Jews he hated and kill them," Soo Song, the lead prosecutor, said in her opening statement on Tuesday. The court heard audio of the 911 call one of the victims made to emergency dispatcher Shannon Basa-Sabol, who was the first witness in the trial. She received Bernice Simon's desperate call from inside the Tree of Life synagogue. "Tree of Life, we're being attacked We're being attacked!" Ms Simon said on the phone. "My husband's shot, oh dear God, my husband's bleeding, he's shot in the back." Ms Simon and her husband, Sylvan, were both killed. Some survivors cried in court. Tree of Life rabbi and attack survivor Jeffrey Myers testified how he prayed while on the line with a police dispatcher as the attack unfolded. "I thought about the history of my people, how we've been persecuted and hunted and slaughtered for centuries, and how all of them must have felt the moments before their death, and what did they do," Mr Myers told the court. Three congregations - Dor Hadash, New Light and the Tree of Life - shared the synagogue. Judy Clarke, the defence lawyer, acknowledged to jurors on Tuesday that there was no disputing her client carried out the attack, but she questioned whether he had acted out of hatred. She argued that the death penalty sentencing option was unconstitutional because she said the former truck driver suffers from serious mental illnesses, including schizophrenia. She also said he was "a socially awkward man who didn't have many friends" and that he had "misguided intent" and "irrational thoughts". The 12 jurors were told that the defendant frequently posted antisemitic slurs online, on sites like Gab, and prosecutors said he shouted "all Jews must die" during the attack. Investigators said he was carrying multiple weapons on him, including a semi-automatic rifle. Police shot the gunman three times before subduing him. Five of the injured included police officers who responded to the scene. The trial in the US District Court in Pittsburgh in western Pennsylvania is expected to last several weeks. PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 23: Rabbi Jeffrey Myers touches the bui Rabbi Jeffrey Myers touches the last remaining mezuzah of the Tree of Life Congregation building at the conclusion of a ceremony to say the l'hitraot, or until we see each other again, to the building ahead of planned construction on April 23, 2023, in Pittsburgh, PA. Jury selection started on Monday, April 24, for the upcoming trial of Robert Bowers, the gunman who massacred 11 Jewish congregants at the Tree of Life Synagogue in 2018. Credit - Jahi ChikwendiuThe Washington Post/ Getty Images When I am invited to give talks about the Tree of Life synagogue massacre, I sometimes ask my audiences this question: How many mass shootings in the United States can you name? I can see them begin to count on their fingers, while they whisper to themselves: Columbine, Sandy Hook, Parkland, Orlando Those are the four that most everyone knows. For many people, the Mother Emanuel church shooting and the school shootings in Uvalde, Texas, and at Virginia Tech also make the cut, having secured a place in their memories. But after that, people tend to struggle to think of another. After giving them half a minute to finalize their lists, I always say, I dont know about you, but I cant remember more than 10, and Im an expert! And they give me grateful looks of relief. They couldnt get more than 10 either. The long-awaited trial of Robert Bowers, the alleged assailant in the 2018 Pittsburgh attack, which claimed the lives of 11 Jews attending Sabbath services, has just begun. Tree of Life is one of those names that has taken on multiple meanings: Its a synagogue building, one that houses three different congregations, but now its also the name of an attackthe deadliest antisemitic attack in American history. And yet I have realized that very few people have any associations with Tree of Life at all. Like nearly all mass shootings, it becomes more forgettable than we would imagine. Which is sadbut also, I have come to accept, the new normal. We are so awash in news of violent crimes, that we are forced to remember, and forget, selectively. More from TIME As a result, a trial like this one, of a perpetrator who is almost certainly guiltyhe was caught in the actserves a useful role, not only in its attempt to bring justice to violence, but also in reminding people of the attack and of the lives lost. For a few weeks or months, well be reminded of a specific crime and the terror of that unique moment, before another attack shifts our attention away from Pittsburgh, forcing Tree of Life to the back of our minds, with all the others. Read More: Resiliency, Strength and Community Collaboration: How Tree of Life Synagogue Is Moving Forward 1 Year After Tragedy Initially, I was troubled by the magnitude of our collective forgetting. For many years, the FBI regarded as a mass shooting any attack in which four or more victims died; in 2013, they lowered the number to three. This definition still excludes violent attacks in which, say, 10 people are injured but no one is killed. It also fails to capture gun battles in which people are hit on both sides. Still, using the federal governments definition, we have had 144 mass shootings since 1982. After all, given how many mass shootings we have all endured, shouldnt our minds be veritable atlases of bloody grief? Shouldnt we be able to look at a map of the country and extend empathy across the time zones, to dozens of cities that have been hit by this scourge? Instead, I have found that, beyond those few catastrophes that we all seem to know about, we remember the ones that feel personal, often for reasons of ethnic or geographical identity. Black people remember the shooting in Charleston, at a Black church; Sikhs remember the shooting at a Sikh temple in Wisconsin, in 2012; those in the LGBTQ+ community remember Orlando; Jews remember the attack on the three congregations meeting at the Tree of Life building, in Pittsburgh in 2018, which left 11 Jews deadhalf of all the people inside. But then theres a further wrinkle, which is that even many of the Jews I meet seem to have only a foggy memory of this attack. Its not uncommon for me to mention the Tree of Life shooting to a fellow Jew, only to get met with a puzzled expression. When I remind them of what I am talking aboutthe synagogue attack, the one in Pittsburghthey generally snap to and remember the incident. But its not at the front of their mindnot in the way the three syllables of Columbine have lodged in our collective memory. Forgetting, in many ways, is our bodies adaptive response for survival. But its also a sign of the terrible times in which we live. This kind of perennial violence has numbed us, forced us to trade fresh outrage for a generalized despair. A trial at least gives us permission to demand somethingif not an end to the killing, then at least a chance for us to stand still and bear witness. As it happens, several of the attacks that have the most collective pull involved the deaths of young people. Perhaps we are all compelled by the horror of lives cut short, even more than by the persistence, demonstrated in Pittsburgh and Charleston, of antisemitism and racism. From time to time, I wish that Tree of Life meant more to more people; I wish the term reminded us of the rising antisemitism that should matter to us all. I wish it didnt take such senseless murder to remind people what those words mean. But right now, thats too much to ask of one mass shooting; thats the cost of its being one too many. Ghoul Kids Club There is, apparently, a TikTok subgenre of the already-problematic true crime fandom that's using artificial intelligence to digitally resurrect the victims of heinous crimes and have them tell the stories of how these real-life children were killed. As Rolling Stone reports, most of these accounts change the appearance and sometimes the names of the actual victims when using AI to digitally resurrect them, likely as a means to get around TikTok's recent rule banning "deepfake" depictions of young people and requiring all use of the tech be labeled as such. Still, the AI-generated characters purport to tell the story of terrible crimes that happened to actual children, although they often tweak key details an indistinguishable morass of fact and fiction, in other words, that leaves us wondering what, exactly, the purpose of these videos really is. "Theyre quite strange and creepy," Paul Bleakley, an assistant professor of criminal justice at the University of New Haven, told Rolling Stone. "They seem designed to trigger strong emotional reactions, because its the surest-fire way to get clicks and likes. Its uncomfortable to watch, but I think that might be the point." Literally Why While some of these accounts do provide disclaimers saying that they don't use real images out of respect for the dead, the effect when watching them is nonetheless the same: very uncanny, very unsettling, and that they were presumably made without the consent of the victims' families. "Imagine being the parent or relative of one of these kids in these AI videos," Bleakley told Rolling Stone. "You go online and in this strange high-pitched voice, heres an AI image [of] your deceased child, going into very gory detail about what happened to them." While there is, of course, a legal aspect to this the professor compared it to new laws cropping up that ban deepfake porn, which he notes is a "very sticky, murky gray area" on an emotional and ethical level, the whole endeavor feels unconscionable. There is, however, one small silver lining: both the accounts mentioned by Rolling Stone have now been taken down, so maybe TikTok's in-house content moderation is working after all. More on the creepy side of AI: Programmer Creates Grim Tool to Clone Anyone as an "AI Girlfriend" Trump angrily disowned his loyalist former press secretary as a RINO for citing poll numbers that didnt show him beating DeSantis by enough President Donald Trump and former White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany on October 19, 2020 in Prescott, Arizona. Caitlin O'Hara/Getty Images Donald Trump accused Kayleigh McEnany of citing the "wrong" poll numbers on Fox News. "I am 34 points up on DeSanctimonious, not 25 up," the former president said in a Truth Social post. McEnany was an ardent Trump loyalist, and served as White House press secretary for much of 2020. Former President Donald Trump angrily disowned his former press secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, after she claimed that Ron DeSantis was closing in on him in the polls. In a post on Truth Social page, Trump accused McEnany of citing the "wrong" poll numbers on Fox News and suggested that she was a "RINO," or "Republican in name only." "Kayleigh 'Milktoast' McEnany just gave out the wrong poll numbers on FoxNews," Trump wrote. "I am 34 points up on DeSanctimonious, not 25 up. While 25 is great, it's not 34. She knew the number was corrected upwards by the group that did the poll. The RINOS & Globalists can have her. FoxNews should only use REAL Stars!!!" Trump apparently meant to say "milquetoast," an adjective meaning a weak or feeble person, which derives from a popular comic strip from the early 20th century about a timid character called 'Casper Milquetoast.' McEnany made the claim during a Tuesday night interview with Fox News host Jesse Watters. She was apparently citing data last week by Trump's pollsters, McLaughlin and Associates, which found that DeSantis had gained nine points against Trump, reducing his polling lead from 34 to 25 points. McEnany was an ardent Trump loyalist, and served as White House press secretary for much of 2020, defending his response to the COVID-19 pandemic and backing his false claims of victory in the 2020 election, which he lost to Joe Biden. After leaving the White House she has worked as a Fox News contributor, and advised Trump to delay announcing his 2024 candidacy after the GP's disappointing 2022 midterm results. Iowa is the first state to hold its 2024 Republican presidential primaries, and competition between the candidates ahead of the vote is already intensifying. An Emerson College poll released last Thursday said Trump had a 42 point lead over his rivals in Iowa. Read the original article on Business Insider BEIJING, May 31 (Xinhua) -- The 15th Straits Forum will be held in Fujian Province on the Chinese mainland from June 16, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council said on Wednesday. The main conference is scheduled to commence on June 17, with the primary venue set up in the coastal city of Xiamen, according to Zhu Fenglian. Diverse individuals from various backgrounds in Taiwan will participate in the forum, including representatives from political parties, co-sponsors of the event, professionals from different industries, and members of religious circles, Zhu said. A total of 51 events will take place during this forum, focusing on promoting cultural and economic exchanges and communication among the youth and people at the primary level across the Taiwan Strait, the spokesperson added. The forum, co-hosted by 84 institutions from both sides of the Strait, will offer more than 1,200 jobs and 1,000 internship and training opportunities to young people from Taiwan. The forum aims to foster cooperation across diverse sectors, such as rural revitalization, and entrepreneurship among young people from Taiwan, as well as industries encompassing science, education, culture and finance, Zhu said. Trump caught on tape discussing classified documents he kept after leaving White House, reports say Trump Classified Documents (ASSOCIATED PRESS) Federal prosecutors have reportedly obtained a recording of former president Donald Trump discussing classified documents he kept at his private residences long after his term expired in January 2021. According to CNN, the audiotape of Mr Trump was created during the summer of 2021, approximately six months after the ex-president had left office. It reportedly captures a discussion during which Mr Trump was reacting to publication of a story in The New Yorker regarding how Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley took actions to ensure the outgoing president issued no illegal orders. In the New Yorker article, journalist Susan Glasser reported that Mr Milley was concerned that Mr Trump might set in motion a full-scale conflict that was not justified by ordering military action against Iran. The ex-president was reportedly recorded as he waved a document and said it would undermine what Mr Milley had said if he could legally show it to anyone. CNN reported that the audio recording contains the sound of paper rustling, as if Mr Trump was waving a document around. The recording also reportedly captured laughter after the ex-president noted that he was not permitted to show the document to anyone. The July 2021 meeting took place long before Mr Trumps aides sent 15 boxes of records from his Palm Beach, Florida home to the National Archives. That January 2022 transfer of documents led Archives officials to discover multiple classified documents among the records sent back from Mr Trumps residence, leading the agency to notify the Department of Justice about the discovery. More follows... Photo: Jason Kempli, Alex Wong, Roy Rochlin (Getty Images) The 2024 presidential campaign trail from hell continues apace. In one camp, we have Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) whining that former President Trump didnt give him an attaboy for winning reelection, and in the other, we have former President Donald Trump openly waging war on his now-former favorite white women for turning on him. Trump launched into a rant on Tuesday against former White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany for supposedly misrepresenting his poll numbers on Fox News Tonight, showing numbers that put Trump a meager 25 points above DeSantis instead of 34. Kayleigh Milktoast McEnany just gave out the wrong poll numbers on FoxNews, Trump wrote on Truth Social. (The expression is milquetoast, but milktoast is also pretty funny.) He then insinuated that she did this on purpose: While 25 is great, its not 34. She knew the number was corrected upwards by the group that did the poll. The RINOS & Globalists can have her. FoxNews should only use REAL Stars!!! Read more As of Wednesday afternoon, McEnany hasnt publicly addressed Trumps very direct attack on her yet. But a number of conservative icons have since come to her defense, including transphobic bigot attorney Jenna Ellis, who formerly served as a legal advisor to Trump. At the same time that Ellis on Tuesday retweeted posts supporting McEnany, Ellis, whos also shared posts suggesting support for DeSantis, vented about supposed attacks on her from the Trump camp recently. Team Trump is pushing a lie that Ive been divorced 3x. Its false. So why THIS lie? Ellis wrote. They want to destroy my character and make me seem untrustworthy and disloyal. Its the lowest form of political attack but thats all they have. Its no better than leftists. Trump suddenly fighting with all the white women who used to shill for him is very funny to me pic.twitter.com/7PIMVhZXEE Laura Bassett (@LEBassett) May 31, 2023 Ellis charged that Trump and his base have been launching character attacks against everyone who supports or even accurately praises DeSantis and that this approach will backfire spectacularly against the former president. The conservative lawyer added that she lived with way worse personal threats during my time representing President Trump. A scroll of Ellis Twitter shows she retweets and tweets at Christina Pushaw, a senior DeSantis aide who got into it with a 16-year-old Trump supporter last week, fairly often. All of this marks a pretty jarring 180 for the former president, whose presidency was bolstered by the support of very vocal white woman loyalists like Ellis and McEnany. Data from the last couple presidential elections shows Trump cleaned up with white female voters, and it surely didnt hurt that he was surrounded by the smiling faces of women like McEnany, Ellis, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Kellyanne Conway, Hope Hicks, and, of course, his womens rights czar daughter Ivanka, throughout his presidency. But clearly, somethings shifted on the 2024 presidential campaign trail, and Trump may now find himself in the market for some new white women surrogates. Hes made enemies of Ellis and McEnany, Huckabee Sanders has her hands full supporting child labor in Arkansas and making stupid videos about beer, and Ivanka has recused herself from politics (read: finally reached her tipping point of embarrassment over her dad). But I have no doubt that Trump will easily be able to recruit some new white women pals who arent yet aware that, yes, the leopard will also eventually eat their faces too. More from Jezebel Sign up for Jezebel's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. A Mar-a-Lago employee who helped move boxes of classified documents the day before Justice Department investigators visited Donald Trumps home also reportedly asked questions about the propertys security cameras. The employee first moved the boxes at the Florida estate in June, then weeks later questioned asked an IT worker about the security cameras, according to The Washington Post. Federal investigators for special counsel Jack Smith say that the employee asked about how the security cameras worked and how long images were stored, a source familiar with the probe told the newspaper. The employee later told investigators that the questioning was innocent and not designed to help hide anything from the DoJ. Mr Trumps handling of classified material at his home, after he left the White House in January 2021, is under investigation by the Justice Department. The special counsel is probing whether the one-term president or any of his aides tried to obstruct justice after a grand jury subpoena to return all classified documents to the government. The employee was questioned by investigators after being seen on surveillance video helping Walt Nauta, an aide of Mr Trump, to move boxes into a Mar-a-Lago storage room on 2 June 2022. A day later a Justice Department lawyer Jay Bratt visited Mar-a-Lago with FBI agents to collect classified documents in line with the subpoena. When federal agents later returned to the property in August they found more than 100 additional classified documents. No charges have yet been brought against Mr Trump or anyone else and he has denied any wrongdoing, claiming he had de-classified all of the material when president. Mr Trump, who is running to be the Republican presidential nominee in 2024, is currently facing four criminal probes. Special counsel Jack Smith is also investigating the actions of Mr Trump and his supporters in trying to block the results of the 2020 presidential election, which he lost to Joe Biden. The Fulton County district attorney in Georgia is investigating if Mr Trump and his supporters tried to block the 2020 presidential election results in the state. Mr Trump was arrested and charged in New York over hush money payments made in the run-up to the 2016 presidential election. Sen. Tommy Tubervilles (R-Ala.) national security adviser told POLITICO that he has resigned over a Washington Post story suggesting he was instrumental in orchestrating the senators controversial blockade of hundreds of senior military nominations. A profile by the Washington Post on Friday depicted Morgan Murphy as taking credit for Tubervilles hold, which has roiled the Department of Defense.The blockade is a response to the Pentagons abortion travel policy, which Tuberville opposes. Murphy said the Post article overstated his role in the senators blockade, and he resigned on Tuesday out of respect for his former boss. The profile was factual in many respects, but simply overstated my role in decisionmaking, he said. He is the boss and calls the shots and always has, Murphy said in a phone interview. I am, was, at the end of the day, a staffer. I didnt take kindly to a perception otherwise. From his 23 years in the Navy, he understands and respects the chain of command, Murphy added. Two people with knowledge of the discussions around Murphys resignation said the Post storys presentation of Murphys role in the blockade irked Tuberville. They were granted anonymity to discuss sensitivities around a personnel move. Tubervilles office declined to comment on Murphys departure. Tuberville has rankled his colleagues in both parties with his blockade of hundreds of military promotions, which typically are approved with little controversy, to force the Pentagon to abandon policies that reimburse travel costs and provide leave for troops who seek abortions. Tubervilles office said the senator intends to continue his hold on military nominations. Normally top military nominations move swiftly through the Senate, but it only takes one persons objection to slow down the process. In the Washington Post article, Murphy seemed to imply he introduced the idea of the holds to Tuberville saying, I explained all his options to him. The option the senator chose was to stall the promotions of more than 200 senior military officers. Murphy clarified to POLITICO that Tuberville was always the driving force behind the strategy. It is my responsibility as a staffer to present the senator with his range of options, which went from sending a letter to offering a meeting to introducing an amendment or to placing holds, Murphy said. The nomination blockade could come to a head when the Armed Services Committee considers its annual defense bill in the coming weeks. But if the dispute isnt resolved, it could ensnare some of President Joe Bidens picks for the Joint Chiefs, including Gen. C.Q. Brown, his nominee for chair. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has appealed to Tuberville to reverse course and Democrats have hammered him for politicizing the promotions process. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell also publicly broke with Tuberville, saying he doesnt support blocking military nominations, but the Alabama Republican continues to insist on a vote to overturn the policy. The only three known living survivors of the deadliest racist attack in American history are awaiting a courts crucial decision in a lengthy legal battle more than a century in the making. Two years ago on the eve of the 100th anniversary of a brutal two-day attack in a once-thriving Black neighbourhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma a lawsuit against the city, military officials and other institutions demanded justice for the families and community living in the long, violent shadow of a massacre that left as many as 300 Black people dead and thousands homeless. On 31 May, 1921, a white mob supported by law enforcement and city officials launched one the bloodiest episodes of racist violence in the 20th century one in which no one has ever been criminally charged. Now, 102 years later, a lawsuit from Viola Fletcher, Hughes Van Ellis and Lessie Benningfield Randle who were all small children during the attack aims to correct the record about the Tulsa race massacre and establish a fund for survivors and their descendants. On 10 May, survivors returned to a Tulsa courtroom for a hearing on whether their case against the city and state can continue, after several attempts from defendants to dismiss the case. Ms Fletcher turned 109 years old that day. A decision from Judge Caroline Wall is imminently expected. Despite the indisputable facts about the Tulsa race massacre and the ongoing generational damage that it caused, there has not been any constructive, tangible action taken to address and repair its catastrophic harm, according to a statement from attorney Sara Solfanelli with Schulte Roth & Zabel. There is a path to justice through the legal system and this lawsuit, and its a real opportunity for the survivors to see that justice in their lifetimes. Civil rights attorney Damario Solomon-Simmons, who is leading the legal efforts with the Justice for Greenwood Foundation, said the plaintiffs remain hopeful that Judge Wall will do the right thing by our survivors and be the first to take a stand for justice. The city, state and other defendants, including the Chamber of Commerce and county sheriffs office, have filed several motions to dismiss the lawsuit in Tulsa County District Court. John Tucker, an attorney for the Tulsa Regional Chamber, among the defendants in the lawsuit, argued that the court does not have jurisdiction to help right century-old wrongs. Mr Solomon-Simmons disagrees, pointing to decades of neglect and festering racial disparities that followed two days of violence in Tulsas Black Wall Street of Greenwood. Hughes Van Ellis, Lessie Benningfield Randle and Viola Fletcher the last known living survivors of the Tulsa race massacre are pictured in 2021, on the 100th anniversary of the attack (Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) A 2001 commission tasked with investigating the massacre said the mob set fire to practically every building in the African American community, including a dozen churches, five hotels, 31 restaurants, four drug stores, eight doctors offices, more than two dozen grocery stores, and the Black public library. In their testimony to Congress in 2021, survivors recounted the horrors they witnessed as young children and pressed lawmakers to support their calls for justice. They murdered people, Ms Randle told lawmakers. I still see it today in my mind I have survived 100 years of painful memories and losses. By the grace of God, I am still here. I have survived. I have survived to tell this story. I believe I am still here to share it with you. Hopefully, now you all will listen to us while we are still here. By the 1960s, Greenwood was beginning to get back on its feet, with Black businesses opening throughout its 35 blocks. But the long road to recovery would suffer the same systemic impacts of racial violence that reverberated across the US throughout the 20th century, from redlining and the construction of highways through Black neighbourhoods to urban renewal initiatives and the use of eminent domain to seize Black-owned property. In a photo from 2022, crews are pictured working to recover human remains believed to be victims of the Tulsa race massacre from 1921 (The City of Tulsa) A commission appointed by the Oklahoma state legislature in 1997 spent nearly four years investigating the massacre before issuing four major recommendations to state and local governments, including guidance to make direct payments to survivors and their families. Most of the recommendations never fully materialised, or have fallen short of community demands and expectations. The failure to provide comprehensive reparations and efforts from city and state officials to raise millions of dollars for museums and tourist attractions that profit from the atrocities have only compounded the harms, according to attorneys and advocates for the survivors. Last month, a team of researchers hoping to identify victims of the massacre announced they had completed DNA sequencing from remains exhumed from a city cemetery where the bodies of Black residents who were killed in the attacks are believed to have been buried. Many victims are believed to be buried in unmarked graves, though their locations are unclear. Witnesses have also described bodies being thrown into the Arkansas River or into mass graves. President Joe Biden, in remarks from Tulsa on the 100th anniversary of the massacre in 2021, called on Americans to reckon with the nations troubling past, marking the first time a sitting president has traveled to the city to acknowledge the atrocities. We should know the good, the bad, everything, he said in his address. Thats what great nations do. They come to terms with their dark sides. Tupac's getting his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame next week for real this time Late rap legend Tupac Shakur will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame next week. (Frank Wiese / Associated Press) Next week, all eyez will be on a new Hollywood Walk of Fame star for late hip-hop legend Tupac Shakur. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce announced the rapper's posthumous honor in a press release shared with The Times on Wednesday. Shakur will finally get his star on June 7, more than a week shy of what would have been his 52nd birthday on June 16 . Shakur, who will receive the Walk of Fame's 2,758th star, was a New York-born rapper whose work heavily influenced the hip-hop world, especially the West Coast scene. L.A. radio legend Big Boy will emcee the ceremony, and director Allen Hughes and writer Jamal Joseph will be the guest speakers, the release said. Sekyiwa "Set" Shakur, Tupac's sister, will accept the honor on his behalf. Tupac came onto the rap scene in 1991 with his debut album, "2Pacalypse Now." Known for songs "Hit Em Up," "California Love" and "All Eyez on Me," he died on Sept. 13, 1996, after he was shot four times in Las Vegas. He was 25. Shakur was initially set to receive the posthumous Hollywood honor in 2014, though a ceremony date was never set in stone, Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez told The Times on Wednesday. "This iconic artist has continued to be part of the zeitgeist for decades after his passing and will continue to be an important cultural figure for many years to come, Martinez said in the release. Surely, as one of L.A.s own, Tupacs star will be added to the list of most visited stars. Shakur who also was known as 2Pac and Makaveli will be the latest rapper to receive a posthumous star on the Walk of Fame. In August, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce honored slain rapper Nipsey Hussle with his star on what would have been his 37th birthday. Among those in attendance were Hussle's longtime partner Lauren London, radio host Big Boy and rappers Roddy Ricch, Saweetie and YG. Earlier this year, Hulu released Hughes' five-part documentary series "Dear Mama." The docuseries examines the life and legacy of Shakur and his mother, Afeni Shakur who was an activist for the Black Panther Party. The Shakur family's history of activism also was the subject of the newly released book "An Amerikan Family: The Shakurs and the Nation They Created," written by Santi Elijah Holley . The Hollywood Walk of Fame Ceremony will be held at at 6212 Hollywood Blvd. on June 7 at 10:30 a.m. and will be livestreamed on the Walk of Fame YouTube page. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. FILE PHOTO: World leaders address the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly at U.N. Headquarters in New York City By Burcu Karakas, Ece Toksabay, Huseyin Hayatsever and Maya Gebeily ANKARA (Reuters) - President Tayyip Erdogan played up his plans to repatriate a million Syrian refugees as he rode a wave of nationalism to his third decade in power, but he could struggle to make good on the promise as conflict lingers on in neighbouring Syria. Erdogan, long seen as an ally by Syrian opponents of President Bashar al-Assad, emphasised refugee repatriation during bitter campaigning for Sunday's run-off against Kemal Kilicidaroglu, who took an even tougher stance on the issue. The focus on refugee return ahead of the election caused alarm among the 3.4 million Syrians living in Turkey, where resentment towards them is growing. Many of the refugees came from parts of Syria that remain under Assad's control and say they can never return to their towns and villages while he remains in power. Under Erdogan's plans, they would not have to. With Qatari help, he says Turkey has been building new housing in rebel-held northwest Syria - a region where Ankara has troops on the ground whose presence has deterred Syrian government attacks. The plans imply a redoubling of Turkey's commitment to the rebel-held area where it has been building influence for years, even as Assad demands a timetable for the withdrawal of Turkish troops as a condition for progress towards rebuilding ties. With Turkish voters increasingly resentful of the refugees - Turkey hosts more than any other country - Erdogan's plans put the issue at the heart of his Syria policy, alongside concerns about Syrian Kurdish groups that have carved out enclaves at the border and are deemed a national security threat by Turkey. Erdogan has said he aims to ensure the return of one million refugees within a year to the opposition-held areas. His interior minister, Suleyman Soylu, last week attended the inauguration of a housing project meant to accommodate returning Syrians in the Syrian town of Jarablus. "It is our duty to fulfil our citizens' expectations about this issue through ways and means that befit our country," Erdogan said in his victory speech on Sunday, adding that nearly 600,000 Syrians had already returned voluntarily to safe areas. SECURITY CONCERNS But for many Syrians in Turkey, the prospect is unappealing. "I would like to go back to Syria but not to Jarablus ... I would like to go back home, to Latakia," said a Syrian who gave his name as Ahmed, a 28-year-old student at Ankara University, referring to a government-held region on the Mediterranean. "I would like to go back, but if Assad stays, I can't due to security concerns." Controlled by an array of armed groups, much of the northwest also suffers from lawlessness. "Conditions in northern Syria remain so bad and unstable that large-scale return will be difficult to arrange, despite all these reports about Turkey and Qatar building housing and infrastructure," said Aron Lund, a Syria expert with Century International, a think tank. "It seems like a drop in the ocean and the overall economic situation keeps deteriorating." Driven partly by its goal of securing refugee returns, Turkey has changed diplomatic course on Syria, following other regional governments by reopening channels to Assad, who Erdogan once called a "butcher". But the rapprochement is moving more slowly than the thaw between Assad and his former Arab foes, reflecting Turkey's much deeper role in a country where Russia, Iran and the United States also have forces on the ground. Analysts think Ankara will not agree easily to Assad's demand for a withdrawal timetable, noting that any sign of Turkish forces leaving would prompt more Syrians to try to flee for Turkey, fearing a return of Assad's rule to the northwest. "Turkey is highly unlikely to compromise on troop withdrawal, which likely means hundreds of thousands of refugees heading their way if and when they leave Idlib," said Dareen Khalifa of International Crisis Group, a think-tank. VOLUNTARY RETURN Many Syrians in Turkey were relieved at Kilicidaroglu's defeat. During his campaign, he said he would discuss plans for refugee returns with Assad after reinstating relations, and that returns would be completed in two years but would not be forced. He sharpened his tone after trailing Erdogan in the first round, vowing to send all migrants back to their countries. Ibrahim Kalin, Erdogan's chief foreign policy adviser, said on Monday that Turkey wanted a safe, dignified and voluntary return. International refugee law stipulates that all returns must be voluntary. "We're making plans to secure the return of one or 1.5 million Syrians in the first place," Kalin told a local broadcaster. Samir Alabdullah of the Harmoon Center for Contemporary Studies in Istanbul, a non-profit research institution, said he did not expect much to change now the election battle is over. "Syrians are relieved after Erdogan's victory ... There is nothing wrong with voluntary return. We do not expect policy change on migration," he said. (Writing by Tom Perry; Editing by Jonathan Spicer and Helen Popper) (Bloomberg) -- American officials are negotiating a deal to help Turkmenistan curb its vast methane emissions, potentially sealing a major breakthrough in the global fight against climate change and notching a diplomatic coup for President Joe Biden. Most Read from Bloomberg Officials from the two countries are in serious talks over a possible agreement that could see the US providing financial support and expertise to assist the central Asian state in plugging leaks that allow planet-warming gas to escape from its aging fossil fuel infrastructure, according to senior US State Department officials and people familiar with the negotiations. They asked not to be named because the discussions are confidential. The people expressed optimism an agreement will be reached within months, with an announcement targeted before the United Nations COP28 climate summit starts in November. Work could be underway at pilot sites by the end of the year, they said. Read More: Asia's Secretive Gas Dictatorship Hides a Climate Catastrophe About 7% of Turkmenistans gas is currently being wasted, the State Department officials said, citing estimates from the International Energy Agency and World Bank. The fossil fuel sometimes leaks accidentally but can also be released into the air deliberately or burned off if theres insufficient infrastructure to get the gas to market a practice that remains common in other countries including the US. Negotiators hope to close in on a deal that captures as much of that gas as possible. Methane the main component of natural gas traps more than 80 times more heat than carbon dioxide in its first two decades in the atmosphere. Thats why its risen to the top of the climate agenda in many countries as a quick and relatively easy fix. Capturing more of Turkmenistans gas would still produce CO2 emissions when its eventually combusted for energy. But the overall global warming impact would be much lower. If all the gas thats leaked or vented by Turkmenistans energy sector was salvaged and burned instead, it would have roughly the same effect as wiping out about 92 million tons of CO2 each year, according to calculations by Bloomberg Green. Thats about twice the total amount of carbon that can be captured from smokestacks globally today. The US and European Union made methane a top issue ahead of COP26 in 2021, ultimately rallying some 150 nations behind a global pledge to slash global emissions 30% by the end of the decade. Nearly two years after that pact was unveiled, focus has moved beyond enrolling more countries in the initiative to taking action on the ground. Numbers on the pledge arent going to resonate anymore, said Jonathan Banks, global director of methane pollution prevention for the Clean Air Task Force, one of the leading climate groups advocating to curb the super-pollutant. Theres going to have to be real dollar figures and real projects. Thats the stuff that will show we are making progress. Turkmenistan is a logical, if geopolitically challenging, target. The nation sits atop the worlds fourth-largest natural gas reserves and spews more methane per unit of oil and gas output than any other major oil- or gas-producing country. The majority of the worlds 500 most intense global methane releases since 2019 that have been traced back to the oil and gas sector were in Turkmenistan, according to analysis of satellite data by Kayrros SAS. The US State Department officials estimated that fixing Turkmenistans leaks would help achieve at least 3% of the emissions reductions needed to fulfill the global pledge.But the regime led by dictator Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov and his son has long been suspicious of foreign offers of help. The nation has few diplomatic ties to the outside world and has historically fallen under Soviet influence. Beijing is one of its most important patrons, given China is the biggest customer for Turkmenistans gas. Turkmenistans foreign ministry did not respond to a letter seeking comment on the US talks. If the two countries reach a deal, Turkmenistan could potentially recover as much as 5.8 billion cubic meters of gas, a boost for global supplies at a time when Russias invasion of Ukraine has created a severe shortage. US oilfield service firms Halliburton Co. and SLB, formerly named Schlumberger, would likely benefit by helping to track down leaks and replace equipment. The US has consulted with an array of industry and other stakeholders on the effort, the State Department officials said. In many instances, the leaks may be relatively simple and inexpensive to address. Scientists last year estimated that repairing just 29 pieces of equipment in the countrys Western Caspian Basin could halt a large chunk of Turkmenistans methane leaks. The potential fixes include relighting extinguished flares, replacing old equipment and improving the operation of oil wells. Satellite data could help shape the work by demonstrating the countrys progress in curbing emissions and pinpointing the highest-priority targets, the State Department officials said. The US Export-Import Bank is a potential source of financing, the officials said. An agreement also could potentially lure philanthropic and public funding as part of the $200 million methane finance sprint the US unveiled in April. There have been signs that cooperation between the US and Turkmenistan is deepening. The US is providing technical support as Turkmenistan pursues World Trade Organization membership, according to a joint statement released after annual bilateral talks earlier this year. A Turkmenistan package could be a model for bespoke deals focused on methane, like the multibillion-dollar just energy transition partnerships designed to help South Africa, Indonesia and Vietnam move away from coal-fired power. It could also entice other countries, such as Algeria, to follow suit, Banks said. It adds to the fire a bit to get countries moving on this, Banks said. Algeria needs to see this and go, OK, Turkmenistan got boatloads of money and all this technical assistance and support to do this, we should be doing that too. --With assistance from Akshat Rathi. (Updates sixth paragraph with additional details on size of emissions) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Two killed when car collides with pickup in Fresno County, CHP says Two senior citizens were killed Tuesday in a two-vehicle collision near Huron, and three other people were injured, the California Highway Patrol reported. The crash took place around noon. Pedro Rosas, 50, of Huron was driving a 2019 Dodge Ram east on Laurel Avenue when he came to a stop at the Avenal Cutoff Road. The CHP said Rosas then attempted a southbound turn onto Avenal Cutoff, but drove into the path of a 2014 Honda. Jesus Arrellano, 28, of Avenal, was the driver of the Honda and tried to steer left to avoid Rosas Dodge. But the two vehicles collided. A man and a woman in the Honda, both 67, died at the scene. Another woman passenger in the Honda, 62, was taken to Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno with major injuries. And a 77-year-old man in the Honda was taken to Kaweah Delta Medical Center with unspecified injuries. Rosas, the driver of the pickup, was taken to Adventist Medical Center in Hanford, also with unspecified injuries. Two types of venomous snakes can be spotted near Sedgwick County. How to identify them If you step outside this summer, chances are youll see a snake or two slithering along. Theres no need to worry as most snakes in Kansas and the Wichita area are harmless and help with rodent control. But if you arent familiar with snake species and what to look out for, seeing a snake in your yard can by frightening. The Wichita Eagle spoke to two experts about common snakes in the area. Heres a quick guide to help you identify any you spot this summer. Venomous snakes near Sedgwick County Venomous snakes are not very abundant in the Wichita area and around Sedgwick and Butler counties. The term venomous refers to something that releases toxins through a sting or a bite, while the term poisonous refers to something that releases toxins upon consumption. The only two types of venomous snakes spotted approaching Wichita are the broad-banded copperhead and the western massasauga, but none have been reported in the city limits. The Broad-banded Copperhead. The broad-banded copperhead is common in southwest Butler County and has been spotted 10 miles southeast of Wichita. You can identify this snake by its pattern: light-ended crossbands that scope the entire body. Its colors vary, some common include gray, dark gray, light brown, brown with a gray head, brown or red. These snakes can usually reach 36 inches. The Western Massasauga. The western massasauga is the smallest rattlesnake in Kansas and has been spotted in every county surrounding Sedgwick. It is common near Cheney Lake and the Flint Hills. This snake can be identified by its gray and brown blotches along its sides and back. These snakes usually reach up to 30 inches. Its monarch butterfly season once more. Heres how to attract and spot them in Kansas What to do if you spot a snake in Kansas If you live in an area where these snakes are common, the best measure to take is to familiarize yourself with their characteristics, and if you come across one, leave it alone. If its not a concern just go about ... as you always have been and nothing will probably ever happen, said Travis Taggart, the director of The Center for North American Herpetology and research associate for the Sternberg Museum of Natural History at Fort Hays State University. If it is a concern then look at pictures. The researcher said the majority of venomous snake bites occur when someone mistakenly steps on or touches one, usually hidden in grass. When youre in an area where you suspect there might be a venomous snake, you just want to be careful where you put your hands and toes, Taggart said. If you do see a snake, its safe to take a look. Its very safe to stand a few feet away and watch a snake, you dont have to be worried about it coming after you to bite you, Taggart said. It may stand its ground ... but you can stand there and watch it and eventually it will crawl away. If you dont know what species of snake youre looking at, theres no fool proof way to immediately know if its dangerous. Some people use head shape if the head is flat or diamond-shaped, the snake could be venomous but some nonvenomous snakes can appear that way as a defense mechanism. The problem is a lot of nonvenomous snakes, when they feel threatened, will puff up and flatten their head, so then it gets confusing. And so a lot of nonvenomous snakes get killed because theyre putting on this threat display to scare you off and you just see this big flat head that you associate with venomous snakes, said Daren Riedle, the wildlife diversity coordinator at the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Kansas poison control fields thousands of reports for household products. When to call Nonvenomous snakes in Wichita Wichita is home to multiple nonvenomous species of snake, as well. The GPS Ranger tours of Cheyenne Bottoms includes information on the areas reptiles, like this bull snake found crawling along a dike road. (File Photo) One of the most common ones youll see is a gophersnake, also called bullsnake. These can reach 6 to 7 feet long, according to Riedle, and are often confused for rattlesnakes. Gophersnakes have an upturned snout and a yellow body with a pattern of brown and black blotches. Two types of gartersnakes, the common gartersnake and the plains gartersnake, are likely to be spotted this summer. The Common Gartersnake. Common gartersnakes can be identified by their white, green or gray stomach with a stripe on either side of the body on the second or third row of scales. Plains gartersnakes look similar, with a stripe on each side on the third or fourth row of scales. The Western Ratsnake. The western ratsnake, also called the black ratsnake, is another common type. You can identify this critter by its dark brown or black color, while some have patterns of dark splotches. The juvenile snakes look a bit different than the adult ratsnakes, with blotches of dark brown and a light grey color. These nonvenomous snakes are usually the ones spotted the most around the area, Reidle said. Gophersnakes, black ratsnakes and gartersnakes do really well around human habitation. People kind of figure out these guys are harmless and they eat a lot of rodents, Reidle said. A lot of people kind of leave them be, thats one of the reasons why you see so many in the urban settings. Riedle said another snake thats abundant in the area is the eastern yellowbelly racer, but it often goes unseen because of how fast it moves. These snakes can be identified by their grey/green color and yellow belly. The juveniles look different, sporting a tan/cream body and brown, gray or red blotches. Hunting for mushrooms in Kansas? How to identify them and other tips before you dig More about snakes in south-central Kansas These are just a few of kinds of snakes spotted in the area. To take a look at all the species seen in Kansas and the Wichita area, the Kansas Herpetofaunal Atlas, run by Taggart, is an online tool to learn more about the critters. There are also several local resources through the Great Plains Nature Center and the Sedgwick County Zoo you can use to familiarize yourself with the different species of snakes, as well. If youre interested in taking field trips with experts to learn about snakes, you can join the Kansas Herpetological Society. CAIRO, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Egypt and Palestine on Wednesday signed a series of cooperation agreements in the fields of agriculture and desert reclamation in Cairo, the capital of Egypt. The agreements were signed by Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and his Palestinian counterpart Mohammad Shtayyeh, who is leading a high-level delegation on a three-day visit to Egypt. The two sides discussed increasing trade volume and enhancing cooperation in the areas of healthcare, education, culture, and electricity connectivity, according to a televised joint press conference. Affirming Egypt's unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their legitimate rights, Madbouly highlighted the significance of Shtayyeh's visit amidst recurring developments in the occupied Palestinian territories that threaten stability and escalate violence. "Egypt moves at all levels to achieve calm in Palestine and to bring back peace talks on the ground," Madbouly said. Shtayyeh stressed that Palestine needs the support of Egypt "now more than at any time," adding that "Palestine is Egypt's partner in ending the Palestinian occupation crisis." Also on Wednesday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry met with his Palestinian counterpart Riad Malki, expressing concern about the situation in Palestinian territories. The Egyptian diplomat condemned the escalating anti-Palestinian violence, assaults on Palestinian cities, and the resumption of settlement activities by Israel. For his part, Malki expressed his aspirations to continue coordination with Egypt, intensifying efforts to defend the rights of the Palestinians and counter Israeli unilateral measures. U.S. government will appear in court over Prince Harrys visa after drug admissions in his memoir Prince Harrys visa application has been put into question. | Kirsty Wigglesworth, Associated Press The U.S. government will appear in court next week to answer questions regarding Prince Harrys visa application, after he admitted to drug use on U.S and foreign soil in his memoir, Spare. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, is demanding to see Harrys American visa application, arguing it is of immense public interest, per the New York Post. The foundation also filed a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit to further compel the the Department of Homeland Security to release the application to the public. So far, the DHS has refused to share the rogue royals visa application with the public. The Department of Homeland Security and the Heritage Foundation will face off in court on June 6, according to a tweet from Nile Gardiner, director of the Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom at the Heritage Foundation. Breaking News: A Hearing on the @Heritage @OversightPR Prince Harry immigration records case will be held in Washington, DC Federal Court in front of a U.S. Federal Judge at 2.30 pm on Tuesday June 6 in Courtroom 17. The Hearing will be open to the press. pic.twitter.com/T7TkCykB0V Nile Gardiner (@NileGardiner) May 30, 2023 Widespread and continuous media coverage has surfaced the question of whether DHS properly admitted the Duke of Sussex in light of the fact that he has publicly admitted to the essential elements of a number of drug offenses in both the United States and abroad, read a complaint from the Heritage Foundation, per CBS News. United States law generally renders such a person inadmissible for entry into the United States. Intense media coverage has also surfaced the question of whether DHS may have improperly granted the Duke of Sussex a waiver to enter the country on a non-immigrant visa given his history of admissions to the essential elements of drug offenses the complaint continued. Harry admitted to using marijuana, cocaine and other illegal drugs in his memoir Spare as well as during several TV interviews promoting the book, reports the Independent. Foreign immigrants seeking a U.S. visa or permanent resident status are required to answer questions about previous drug use. According to U.S. law, any applicant determined to be a drug abuser is deemed inadmissible, according to the New York Post. While immigration officials are permitted to make exceptions to these rules, Harrys admission to past drug use brings up questions about whether he answered questions on the visa application truthfully or if exceptions were made on his behalf. Did DHS in fact look the other way, play favorites, or fail to appropriately respond to any potential false statements by Prince Harry? the Heritage Foundation said in a statement Tuesday, per the Independent. Harry and his American wife, Meghan Markle moved to Montecito, California, in 2020 after voluntarily giving up their roles as working senior royals. NATO troops on guard in north Kosovo for third day amid protests NATO troops on guard in north Kosovo for third day amid protests By Fatos Bytyci LEPOSAVIC, Kosovo (Reuters) - NATO peacekeepers guarded town halls in ethnically polarised north Kosovo for a third day on Wednesday as Serbia's defence minister inspected troops deployed near the border with its former province after violent unrest this week. The disturbances prompted NATO to send additional troops to the area and the alliance and the West slammed Kosovo for not having done enough to prevent violence, during which 30 NATO troops and 52 ethnic Serb protesters were hurt on Monday. NATO said it would send 700 more troops to boost its 4,000-strong mission in Kosovo, where Serbs are angry that a 2013 deal to set up an association of autonomous municipalities where they form a majority in the north has never been implemented. Regional unrest has intensified since April elections that Serbs in north Kosovo boycotted, leaving victory in four Serb-majority mayoralties to candidates from Kosovo's 90% ethnic Albanian majority. After they were installed last week despite a 3.5% election turnout, the U.S., the most outspoken supporter of Kosovo's 2008 independence from Serbia, decided to cancel Pristina's participation in a NATO military exercise. U.S. Ambassador to Serbia Christopher Hill said on Wednesday there might be additional moves but declined to elaborate. "We want more progress in Kosovo, we want the establishment of the association of Serb municipalities, we want the normalisation of undertakings (pledged) by both countries including by Serbia," Hill told reporters in Belgrade. Kosovo media reported on Wednesday that protesters outside a town hall in Zvecan, who were separated from Polish NATO troops by a razor-wire barrier, had broken windows on a police car and two cars belonging to Kosovo Albanian media outlets. Northern flashpoint towns were largely calm on Wednesday. NATO soldiers also stood guard outside a municipal hall in Leposavic where its ethnic Albanian mayor remained holed up after entering it amid Serb protests on Monday. "While (these mayors) may have been legally elected, we do not consider their election legitimate," Dragan, an ethnic Serb who lives in Leposavic and declined to give his last name, said on Wednesday. SERBIAN FORCES ON BORDER Serbian Defence Minister Milos Vucevic visited a military base in Raska, near the border with Kosovo, and inspected soldiers with tanks lined up behind them after President Aleksandar Vucic put the country's army on full combat alert. Vucevic said he wanted peace and stability "but without compromising our ability to defend the sovereignty of the Republic of Serbia and all of its citizens" - alluding also to Kosovo Serbs who do not recognise Kosovo statehood. The United States, NATO and allies have rebuked Kosovo's government for stoking tension with Serbia, saying that forcefully installing the mayors in ethnic Serb areas undermined efforts to achieving lasting peace in the region. Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti accused Belgrade of orchestrating protests in the north to destabilise Kosovo, which secured statehood a decade after a guerrilla uprising against repressive Serbian rule. Separately, Kosovo Olympic authorities asked the International Olympic Committee to open disciplinary proceedings against Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic, accusing him of stirring political tension with remarks made at the French Open. Djokovic wrote "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia" on a camera lens on Monday, the day NATO troops and Serbs were hurt in clashes in Zvecan, where his father grew up. (Reporting by Fatos Bytici, Ivana Sekularac and Daria Sito-Sucic; editing by Bernadette Baum and Mark Heinrich) Saudi Arabias Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud, left, Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, second from left, and Dmytro Kuleba, Foreign Minister of Ukraine, attend a joint press conference in Kyiv, Ukraine, Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. | Genya Savilov, pool photo via Associated Press Ukraine is planning to hold a peace summit collaborating with global leaders aiming to find solutions to end the war with Russia on Ukraines terms, but it does not plan on inviting Russia to the event. We require a unified plan of the responsible civilized world that really wants to live in peace, Andriy Yermak, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys chief of staff, told The Wall Street Journal. He added that Ukraine would be unwilling to compromise on its territorial integrity and that coming to an agreement with Russia wouldnt be possible while Russia troops remain on the ground in Ukraine. What world leaders would attend a Ukraine peace summit? Plans for the summit are preliminary and no location has been identified yet, but it would likely center on Ukraines 10-point peace plan that saw positive reactions at the G7 summit earlier this month, Reuters reported. A meeting between the countries has strong support from European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, per WSJ. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lkke Rasmussen says Denmark would obviously like to host the meeting, Politico reported. He added that it would be important that not just European and western countries be in attendance, but that India, Brazil and China be involved in negotiations as well, per Reuters. Russia has mentioned it would be open to peace talks but says that talks would have to be based on new realities, meaning its declared annexation of five Ukrainian provinces it fully or partly controls. Ukraine refuses to accept those conditions, per Reuters. Another condition Russia requests of Ukraine is that it would remain neutral and avoid joining NATO or the European Union a condition Ukraine has not expressed willingness to accept either, per Politico. Rustem Umerov, Head of the State Property Fund of Ukraine Read also: Zelenskyy slaps sanctions on 270 individuals and entities with ties to Russia The SPFU will have the authority to reinitiate large-scale privatization, lease state property for a maximum of five years, and independently decide the fate of assets expropriated from sanctioned individuals and companies. The SPFU will have the autonomy to make executive decisions concerning sanctioned property, such as privatization, sales, leasing, or management. All proceeds will be directed towards repairing the damage done by Russias invasion of Ukraine. The new law also prevents sanctioned individuals and Russian or Belarussian citizens from becoming heads of state enterprises or members of their supervisory boards. Before the war, the SPFU had the capacity to lease state property for up to 49 years. However, most contracts were agreed upon for a term of five years, with the proportion of five-year contracts amounting to 88.8% in 2021. Read also: Damage to Ukrainian medical facilities from Russian attacks amounts to $2.5 billion Following the invasion, fears arose due to low competition and overall uncertainty, potentially leading to an underestimation of lease prices. In response to that, Ukraine has limited the duration of new lease contracts to the duration of martial law plus 12 months. In recent months, Ukrainian businesses have gradually adapted to the challenges posed by the state of war, the SPFU said. Read also: Finlands Gasum terminates Gazprom contract Term restrictions do not encourage entrepreneurs to participate in leasing auctions, leading to a lack of demand, with 38% of them currently not being realized. Once the new law comes into force, the SPFU expects a 20-25% increase in revenue from state property leases, equating to an annual increase of UAH 100 million ($2.71 million). Read also: Workers at ZNPP forced to sign contracts with Rosatom under duress, Ukraine says Additionally, the law aims to improve the condition of leased properties and enhance the SPFU's managerial structure. The head of the fund will have the autonomy to appoint and dismiss deputies, with the 12 regional departments becoming structural units. Read also: Ukraines security service uncovers big state property privatization corruption scheme Previously, it was reported that the SPFU's earnings from privatization in Q1 2023 hit a record high for the past decade. 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 Lindsey Graham Read also: What it means to designate Russia as a sponsor of terrorism, and why the US should take this decisive step Graham was commenting after meeting with Tim Barrow, the esteemed UK National Security Advisor. Expect real Ukrainian gains in counteroffensive, but we must show continued commitment to maximize effect. Graham said. The senator conveyed his gratitude to Barrow for the provision of highly effective Storm Shadow air-launched missiles from the UK to Ukraine. The Brits are in it to win it for Ukraine. We have a common view that additional long-range rockets ATACMS will enhance battlefield success for Ukraine, Graham 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 (Bloomberg) -- At least three people were killed, including two children, in the latest Russian missile assault on Kyiv, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram early Thursday. The attack, the 19th in the past month, injured at least another 14 people, and missile debris hit a hospital and private cars on the left bank of the Dnipro River, officials added. Most Read from Bloomberg Foreign ministers of North Atlantic Treaty Organization countries begin a two-day meeting in Oslo, where theyll discuss Ukraines bid to join the military alliance as well as how to strengthen defense spending. French President Emmanuel Macron, in a speech at the Globsec summit in Bratislava on Wednesday, said Russias invasion of Ukraine had reawakened the North Atlantic Treaty Organization almost four years after he branded the military alliance brain dead. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is planning to meet with the political leadership of Mozambique, after having visited Kenya and Burundi, according to Tass news service. President Vladimir Putin pledged to bolster air defenses around Moscow after the Kremlin blamed Kyiv for the biggest attack on the Russian capital since the invasion of Ukraine began. Latest Coverage Macron Says Putin Revived Brain-Dead NATO With Invasion Moldova Sees EU Entry by 2030 Along With Russian-Occupied Region Putin Orders Tighter Defenses After Drone Strikes on Moscow Ukraine, IMF Reach Agreement for $900 Million Loan Disbursement Russian Oil Flows Stay High Three Months Into Pledged Output Cut Here Is Whats Behind Rising Serbia-Kosovo Tensions: QuickTake Coming Up (All times CET) NATO foreign affairs ministers meet in Oslo GLOBSEC forum continues in Bratislava Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. The head of state expressed gratitude for the creation of the Center for the Protection of Children's Rights and the development of an action plan for the return of children to their families Zelenskyy attended the opening of the Child Rights Protection Center, which aims to combat crimes committed by Russia against Ukrainian children, the Office of the President reported. President Zelenskyy presented the Bring Kids Back UA plan, which seeks to unite the efforts of the Ukrainian government, partner countries, and international organizations to bring back children who were abducted from Ukraine by Russia. Expressing gratitude for the establishment of the Child Rights Protection Center and the development of an action plan for the return of young Ukrainians to their families, Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of bringing all the children back home. Read also: Genocide by abduction: Russians planning to abduct Luhansk Oblast children to Russia NRC The first step has been taken, 371 children are home, in Ukraine, said Zelenskyy. We will do everything to bring back everyone, and surely the main essence is in the name of the program Bring Kids Back UA. I sincerely desire this to bring back all the children home, to Ukraine, and I fully support this program. I want to bring the children back as soon as possible. This is the most important thing. Daria Herasymchuk, the authorized representative for childrens rights, outlined the various components of the Bring Kids Back UA plan, including the return of Ukrainian children deported by Russia, the development of family-based forms of upbringing, the reintegration of children who have returned from the Russian Federation, and the organization of social and educational initiatives. The plan also focuses on the rescue and protection of Ukrainian children, documentation of crimes to hold Russia accountable, inter-parliamentary cooperation, communication and public events, and the development of infrastructure to support family-based upbringing. The International Criminal Court in The Hague issued arrest warrants for Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and Russian Childrens Ombudsman Maria Lvova-Belova on March 17. They are accused of unlawfully deporting children from Ukraine to Russia since Feb. 24, 2022. Read also: Russia refuses to return abducted 14-year-old Ukrainian girl, opens criminal case against her to prevent it Peter Hoffmanski, the Head of the ICC, stated that the dictator could be arrested in 123 countries that have ratified the Rome Statute. The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe on April 27 adopted a resolution recognizing the forced displacement of Ukrainian children to Russia as genocide. Ukraine provided the International Committee of the Red Cross on April 28 with a list of over 19,000 Ukrainian children who were illegally deported by Russian invaders from the temporarily occupied territories 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 Ukraine is holding an FPV drone "Super Bowl" to spur domestic production of the weapons. With First Person Video (FPV) drones gaining an increasing role on the battlefield, Ukraines Ministry of Digitial Transformation is hosting what it calls The Drone Army FPV Super Bowl to help spur domestic development of these weapons. The goal of the event, which will be held June 1, is to show the capabilities of Ukrainian-made FPV drones to the Security and Defense Forces for further contracting, Minister for Digital Transformation Mykhailo Federov said on his Telegram channel Tuesday. Minister for Digital Transformation Mykhailo Federov said his ministry will hold a Drone Army FPV Super Bowl to spur domestic manufacturing of those weapons. (Mykhailo Federal Telegram channel photo) "We are holding a competition of FPV drone manufacturers to strengthen the Defense Forces of Ukraine," said Federov. The competition will take place in several stages, said Federov, including hitting moving and static targets, overcoming an obstacle course and more. The participants will be watched by representatives of the Ministry of Defense and various branches of the military, said Federov. FPV drones, descended from racing drones, are commanded by an operator wearing a headset who can fly the weapon into a particular target. The drones "are the future, Federov said, and are successfully working on the front lines today. They've hit tanks, trucks, troops in trenches, and, as you can see in this video below, even other drones. https://twitter.com/KyivPost/status/1661389352545525760 The Ministry of Digital is systematically working on the development of defense technologies and stimulation of domestic UAV manufacturers, he said. So if you have cool products and want to strengthen the Drone Army with your birds - register using the link. Speaking of FPV drones, the Ukrainian blockchain company Everstake donated 500 Pegasus FPV drones to Ukraines Drone Army, according to the Ministry of Digital Transformation. The drones were distributed among 13 units of the Defense Forces of Ukraine, the ministry said on its Telegram channel Tuesday. Some of them have already destroyed dozens of enemy objects." https://twitter.com/KrzysztofJano15/status/1663561033544519686 FPV drones are a competitive advantage on the battlefield. They catch up and destroy almost any target. And most importantly, they save the lives of our soldiers, who see every step of the Russians while in hiding. Russia, meanwhile, has launched its own crowdfunding campaign for FPV drones, which, as you can see in this video below, it is using to deadly effect as well. https://twitter.com/Rajendr67215893/status/1663619585478623234 We continue to collect for a batch of FPV drones for the Russian Federations Armed Forces, the Russian Colonelcassad Telegram channel wrote Tuesday. The first thousand are going to be sent to the front in full in the near future. Before we head into the latest updates from Ukraine, The War Zone readers can catch up on our previous rolling coverage here. The Latest On the battlefield, Russian forces made no progress, Ukraines Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar said on her Telegram channel. The situation on the northern border with Belarus is stable, she said. There were no signs of the formation of offensive groups on the border with the Russian Federation. The enemy continues to maintain a military presence in the border areas. It carries out mortar and artillery attacks and carries out airstrikes. In the south, the Russians are on the defensive, while the east continues to be the epicenter of hostilities, she said. The enemy does not abandon the goal of capturing Donetsk and Luhansk regions. The intensity of the enemy's offensive actions during the day is somewhat reduced. Instead, the intensity of artillery shelling and airstrikes is maintained. The Russians are conducting unsuccessful offensive actions in the Kupiansk region while our defenders repelled 12 enemy attacks in the area of the city of Marinka during the day. The Russians are not currently conducting offensive operations in the Bakhmut direction. However, it continues shelling and carries out airstrikes. The replacement and regrouping of enemy troops is also underway in this direction. https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1663469524262309888 Ukrainian forces, she added, control the southwestern outskirts of Bakhmut, while in the north and south of the suburbs of Bakhmut, the advance has not been carried out for several days, as the movement of our troops has been suspended for the performance of other military tasks. Which, in fact, are performed. She did not specify what those tasks were. https://twitter.com/NewsUkrainian24/status/1663582346350583810 Another package of security aid for Ukraine will include more munitions for the U.S.-made MIM-104 Patriot air defense systems provided to Ukraine and more Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS) munitions fired by the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS and the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) provided to Ukraine, a U.S. defense official told The War Zone Tuesday, confirming reporting by the Voice of America. The $300 million package will also include more Zuni unguided rockets as well as AIM-7 air-to-air missiles for air support, additional Avenger air defense systems and Stinger surface-to-air missile systems as well as more tank ammunition. The AIM-7s are of interest as they are likely for the same Soviet-era systems that the RIM-7 Sea Sparrow was being adapted to, although we are trying to confirm that at this time. You can read more about those efforts here. https://twitter.com/CarlaBabbVOA/status/1663549378240606211?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1663549378240606211%7Ctwgr%5E8b51e537b8a6fc8f8045c90fd7bb8a8c8020c8dc%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.voanews.com%2Fa%2Fus-providing-300-million-in-more-aid-for-ukraine%2F7115470.html U.S. President Joe Biden has not ruled out sending Ukraine U.S.-produced Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) short-range ballistic missiles, which can hit targets at about 200 miles away with a power punch. In a quick media gaggle before boarding Marine One on Monday, Biden was asked about the recent massive drone attack on Kyiv. "It's not unexpected," Biden said. "That's why we got to continue to give Ukraine all that it needs." Asked whether "it was time for ATACMS for Ukraine," Biden offered a response that seemingly keeps them on the table. "That's still in play," he said, without offering any further details. Biden's comment about the ATACMS does not represent a policy change, a U.S. government official told The War Zone Tuesday. "We have not provided them thus far and no decision has been made to move forward with providing them either." https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/1663511095875629056?s=20 Reluctance to send ATACMS has been based on fear of escalation as well as the need to keep the missiles for U.S. contingencies. A confrontation with China is top of mind in this regard. Two people were killed and seven injured in the latest wave of drone attacks against Kyiv Monday night into Tuesday, local authorities said. "Tonight, the enemy attacked Kyiv with IranianShahed-136/131" drones, Serhii Popko, head of the KMVA, said on his Telegram Channel Tuesday. A total of 31 unmanned aerial vehicles were launched from the north and south across Ukraine. The Air Force in cooperation with the air defense of other components of the Defense Forces of Ukraine, destroyed 29 drones, Popko said. Almost all Shahed [drones] are affected on the outskirts of the capital and in the sky of Kyiv. As a result of falling debris, fires, destruction of residential and non-residential buildings and damage to cars were recorded in various areas of the capital. Except for one victim, "all the casualties were recorded in the Holosiiv district of the city, where the debris hit a multi-story building," Popko said. https://twitter.com/johnspectator/status/1663399024211243009 Ukraine continues to strike targets in Russia with artillery, mortars and drones, Belgorod Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov said on his Telegram channel Tuesday. The Armed Forces of Ukraine shelled a [Temporary Accommodations Center] with cannon artillery, said Gladkov, adding that a security guard at the institution died while two other people there were injured, one critically. Three direct hits in the sanatorium fell on the residential and administrative buildings, as well as on the territory of the checkpoint, Gladkov claimed. The roof was broken, window openings and glass were broken. Two cars were also hit. That attack came after what Gladkov claimed was a series of strikes in Belgorod on Monday, with one man killed after nearly 200 artillery, mortar and drone strikes hit the oblast. https://twitter.com/WarMonitors/status/1663620645412806658 Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu made some pretty bold claims Tuesday without offering any proof to back them up. In the month of May alone, Ukraine has lost over 16,000 troops, 16 aircraft, five helicopters, 466 drones, over 400 tanks, and other armored fighting vehicles, and 238 pieces of field artillery and mortars, Shoigu said during a special teleconference Tuesday. In addition, 196 HIMARS rockets, 16 HARM missiles, and 29 Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles have been intercepted and destroyed. Despite "the AFU's significant losses, Western supervisors continue to encourage the Kyiv regime to launch a large-scale offensive," Shoigu said. "Ukraine is receiving more hardware and weapons. We monitor supply volumes and routes and strike when identified." Shoigu added that large Western arms depots in Khmelnitsky, Ternopol, and Nikolayev have been destroyed in recent days, as well as U.S. Patriot anti-aircraft missile system in Kyiv. The Pentagon "takes everything Russia says with a grain of salt," a U.S. defense official told The War Zone Tuesday. "Wed have to refer you to the Ukrainian Armed Forces regarding your questions but Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder [the Pentagon's top spokesman] spoke of the one Patriot system that has been repaired and is operational two weeks ago." https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/1663528013001007104 Speaking of bold claims, Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner mercenary group, pushed back against claims by noted Russian milblogger Igor Girkin that he was plotting a coup against Russian President Vladimir Putin. In an audio message on the Telegram channel for his company Concord, Prigozhin responded to former Russian commander Igor Girkin's accusations that he and his paramilitary outfit are preparing for a coup in Russia, saying they are untrue and that he has a "very respectful attitude" towards Putin. "In order to carry out a coup d'etat or a military coup, it is not at all necessary to have a large number of armed people," Prigozin said Tuesday in an audio message posted on his Telegram channel, according to a translation by Newsweek. "But, as a rule, coups are carried out by the army, as a rule, by some part of a breakaway army. PMC Wagner is not an army at allwe have a very respectful attitude towards the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin." Days earlier Girkin - a former military leader in the so-called Donetsk People's Republic who is also known by the name Igor Strelkov - said Prigozhin "practically declared war on part of military and state nomenclature." https://twitter.com/wartranslated/status/1662429293719298049 At least 100 Russian troops were killed and another 400 injured in a Ukrainian strike on a barracks in Mariupol, Mariupol mayoral advisor Petro Andriushchenko said Monday on his Telegram channel. One hundred good Russians will never fight again, he wrote. Except in hell. A Ukrainian official told The War Zone on Tuesday that the barracks were most likely hit by a U.K.-provided Storm Shadow air-launched cruise missile. "The Russians have a very limited capability against low-flying objects, especially when it comes to the time detection of them," the official said. The War Zone could not independently verify that claim. https://twitter.com/Feher_Junior/status/1663604782102183938 Pavel Gubarev, a Russian nationalist and former "governor" of the so-called "Novorossiya" admitted that Russia destroyed a significant part of the male population of the occupied cities, "using them in meat assaults." "Now there is no such category as an adult male aged 25 to 55 years," Gubarev said in a recent interview, according to the Kremlin Circus Telegram channel. "This is in fact a deserted (of adult men) territory. Those who did not leave were mobilized (by Russians) and among them were huge losses." The "so-called 'people's militia'...continues 'to be grinded down' in senseless frontal attacks, the so-called 'meat assaults.'" https://twitter.com/anno1540/status/1663418693026545665?s=20 The Spy Dossier Telegram channel posted pictures on Twitter claiming to be the first destruction of a Russian PBU 55K6E mobile command post for an S-400 air defense system." "The incident occurred during an attack by the Armed Forces of Ukraine on warehouses for temporary storage of weapons in the Kherson region," The Spy Dossier Channel reported, claiming the attack was carried out by a HIMARS munition on May 20. https://twitter.com/archer83able/status/1663596433784569887 And Russian military trucks were hit by Polish Warmate loitering munitions in use by the State Border Service of Ukraine. https://twitter.com/bayraktar_1love/status/1663551674416513029 That's it for now. We'll update this story when there's more news to report about Ukraine. Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com Ukraine's Defence Ministry explains why Russia has put top Ukrainian commanders on wanted list Russia has put Ukraines Commander-in-Chief, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, and Commander of the Ground Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, on its wanted list because this is one of its methods of information warfare. Source: Hanna Maliar, Ukraines Deputy Minister of Defence, on Telegram Details: Maliar said Russia also opened criminal proceedings against Ukrainian commanders and brigades in 2014-2015, accusing them of committing crimes during the conduct of hostilities. This technique, according to Maliar, is designed to address two challenges: to neutralise Ukraines status as a victim of an international crime of aggression and formally equate Russias criminal actions with Ukraines defensive ones; to exert psychological pressure and demoralise Ukraines military. Quote: "However, [this is] mission impossible. Russia has created such a toxic reputation with this war, and has lost so much trust, that any accusations on their part against our military are perceived as an aggravating circumstance. On the second point, everything is clear, no explanation needed. Psychologically, it is hopeless to put pressure on commanders who are fighting with an enemy which is far superior in terms of the number of fighters and weapons." Earlier: Russias Ministry of Internal Affairs put Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of the Ground Forces, on the wanted list. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Materials of the Security Service of Ukraine confirm that the court has seized the property of a former parliamentarian of the Kherson Oblast Council, who headed the occupying "Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries" in the temporarily occupied part of the region. Source: Security Service of Ukraine; the Kherson Oblast prosecutor's office; UP source in law enforcement agencies Details: According to an UP source, the accused is Eduard Repilievskyi. Prosecutors sent an indictment to the court against the former official of the Kherson Oblast Council from the Opposition Platform For Life political party; the latter is banned in Ukraine on charges of treason and collaborationism. Additionally, during a special pre-trial investigation, at the prosecutors' request, the court seized property and assets worth US$13.5 million; they belonged to the convict, his family members and enterprises under his control. According to the Security Service of Ukraine, more than 400 real estate objects have been legally blocked, including 350 land plots with a total area of more than 1,200 hectares in Ukraine's south. In addition, dozens of vehicles, 15 bank accounts, and corporate rights in 5 agricultural companies and 3 trademarks were seized. According to the investigation, the former official was a member of the banned Opposition Platform For Life political party and was one of the first to support the Russian invaders after part of the Kherson Oblast was captured. For such "loyalty",Volodymyr Saldo, head of the occupying administration in the captured part of Kherson Oblast personally offered him a leadership position in this "administration". He also appointed the traitor as the head of the "interdepartmental commission on control over the transportation of agricultural products" created by the aggressor state. In this "position", Repilievskyi organised the looting of the property of local farmers and the export of Ukrainian grain to Russia. Currently, the suspect is fleeing justice in the temporarily occupied part of Ukraine. Comprehensive measures are underway to bring the traitor to justice. The perpetrator faces life imprisonment. At the same time, his corporate rights, trademarks, and bank accounts have already been transferred to the management o the National Agency of Ukraine for the identification, search, and management of assets, the Security Service of Ukraine notes. Another part of the defendant's property, which is currently located in the temporarily occupied territory, was also seized and will be handed over to the Agency for Investigation and Management of Assets immediately after the liberation of Kherson Oblast. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! JUBA, May 31 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan on Wednesday regretted the renewal of the arms embargo and sanctions by the United Nations Security Council. Deng Dau Deng, acting minister of foreign affairs and international cooperation, said South Sudan regrets the renewal of the sanction, terming it as unjustified. "We have regretted and objected to any renewal of the sanction because this is unjustified; this was done in bad faith and ill intention under the spotlight of being a state with a lot of abuses," Dau told Xinhua in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. The UN Security Council on Tuesday adopted a resolution to renew for a year, till May 31, 2024, arms embargo measures against South Sudan as well as targeted sanctions of the travel ban and asset freeze against individuals and entities. Resolution 2683, which was adopted with ten votes in favor and five abstentions, also decides to extend the mandate of the Panel of Experts, which assists the work of the South Sudan Sanctions Committee, until July 1, 2024. Dau said South Sudan has been working tremendously in implementing the provisions of the agreement and have gone far to implement the provisions of the benchmark that was earmarked for the removal of these sanctions. He stressed that the renewal of the arms embargo will affect the implementation of the peace agreement both in the security transition as they want to graduate and arm the unified forces in the cantonment site and deploy them to take up their duties in providing security. Dau said the arms embargo will also affect the economy of the country as prices will increase and investors will shun the country. "Arms embargo is a factor that affects the economy, the trade, the commerce, and the security of the country. Prices will now shoot up because we are a landlocked country and South Sudan relies heavily on things that are imported from the neighboring countries, therefore, the prices will increase, and the investors will not have interest in coming to South Sudan because it is a country under sanction," Dau said. Ukrainian children and prisoners of war were transported through Belarus Ukraine has confirmation that there was a forced transfer of Ukrainian children and prisoners of war through the territory of Belarus, and the Belarusian authorities participated in it. Source: Dmytro Lubinets, the Ukrainian Parliamentary Commissioner for Human Rights, at a briefing quoted by Ukrinform news agency Quote: "We have confirmation that the forced transfer of Ukrainian children, civilian hostages and prisoners of war took place through the territory of Belarus, with the direct involvement of the Belarusian authorities." Previously: Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraines Human Rights Commissioner, has said that Russia is not providing any information about Ukrainian deported children. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! MOSCOW/KYIV (Reuters) -Russia said Ukrainian artillery hit a Russian town for a third time this week and drones struck two oil refineries in an uptick in attacks on Russian territory as Ukraine prepares a Western-backed push to end Moscow's invasion. Inside Ukraine, Russian-installed officials said five people had been killed in Ukrainian army shelling of a Russian-occupied village in the east, where Russia has fought months of bloody and inconclusive battles to try to seize more territory. There was no immediate comment from Ukraine on the Russian reports, in a week when the two countries accused each other of spreading terror in their capitals with air strikes. Thousands of civilians have been killed in Ukraine and towns and cities laid to waste since Moscow's forces invaded 15 months ago, but Tuesday marked only the second time Moscow had come under direct fire - from a flurry of drones - although oil and military facilities elsewhere in Russia have been hit. In the Russian town of Shebekino on the Ukrainian border, two of four wounded people were hospitalised and shells damaged an apartment building, four homes and a school as well as power lines, Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said. Later, Gladkov told Russian television there had been more Ukrainian shelling of Shebekino and a fire had broken out at an industrial site. Both sides say they are targeting the buildup of each other's forces and military equipment ahead of a Ukrainian counteroffensive, which it says will come in days or weeks, to try to drive Russian forces out of eastern and southern regions. Away from the front lines of the conflict, the United Nations was trying to salvage a deal allowing safe Black Sea grain exports. To that end, the U.N. has made a "mutually beneficial" proposal that Ukraine, Russia and Turkey begin preparatory work for the transit of Russian ammonia through Ukraine, a source close to the talks said on Wednesday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in his nightly video address, accused Russia of blocking all activity at the port of Pivdennyi, with 1.5 million tonnes of agricultural products unable to move. "... the blockade of one port in Ukraine poses extremely serious risks for different nations, particularly those with relations that Russia tries to use for speculative purposes." The U.N. and Turkey brokered the Black Sea Grain Initiative between Moscow and Kyiv last July to help tackle a global food crisis aggravated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a leading grain exporter. ARTILLERY FIRE INTENSIFIES IN BAKHMUT Russian-installed officials in Ukraine's eastern Luhansk region - one of four Moscow claims to have annexed - said Ukraine had killed five people and wounded 19 in a rocket attack on a farm in the village of Karpaty. In the fiercely contested eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, Russia was replacing Wagner private army troops with regular forces - paratroops and motorised rifle units - but intensifying its artillery shelling, Ukrainian military officials said on Wednesday night. "The days to come will show whether the rotation strengthens or weakens them," Serhiy Cherevatyi, spokesperson for Ukraine's eastern grouping of troops, told Ukrainian television. Russia's defence ministry said it had pushed Ukrainian forces back around two settlements in Donetsk province, part of a 1,000-km (620-mile) front line that has barely moved despite months of fighting that has cost tens of thousands of lives. Reuters was not able to verify either side's reports. REFINERIES HIT Drones attacked two oil refineries 40-50 miles (65-80 km) east of Russia's biggest oil export terminals on Wednesday, according to Russian officials, who did not attribute blame. They said a fire at one of the terminals was later put out. Ukrainian drones struck wealthy districts of Moscow on Tuesday and two people were injured, according to the Russian capital's mayor. The Kremlin said Moscow's air defences worked effectively but had room for improvement. Russia's ambassador to Washington accused it of encouraging Ukraine to attack. The White House said it does not know who carried out the Moscow drone strikes but reiterated that the U.S. does not support attacks inside Russia. The United States, Britain and Germany are among Western nations to have supplied arms to Ukraine on condition it uses them to defend itself and retake Ukrainian territory occupied by Russia, which they say launched an unprovoked war of conquest. The White House on Wednesday announced the latest in a series of U.S. aid packages for Ukraine that includes up to $300 million worth of air defence systems and ammunition. Russia says it is waging a "special military operation" to neutralise a threat from Kyiv's moves towards the West. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge, Pavel Polityuk, Tom Balmforth, Max Hunder, Olena Harmash, Valentyn Ogirenko, Gleb Garanich and Ron Popeski; writing by Philippa Fletcher, Mark Heinrich and Grant McCool; Editing by Sharon Singleton, William Maclean and Diane Craft) The Ukrainian national team in group exercises The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has been excluding athletes from aggressor states from competitions due to the ongoing full-scale war against Ukraine. However, in March 2023, the International Olympic Committee issued revised recommendations regarding the participation of Russians and Belarusians, suggesting that athletes from these countries be permitted to compete under a neutral status. FIG President Morinari Watanabe, who has expressed support for Ukraine, said he was ready to heed these recommendations. Read also: At least 35 countries against Russian athletes participating in Paris Olympics "I understand and support Ukraine's position politically," Watanabe stated. But sport is independent of politics. Sport should strive for peace even when governments and soldiers are at war. This is the mission of sport. However, Ukrainian gymnast Meleshchuk said she was shocked by the FIG's decision and said she backed a Ukrainian boycott of competitions. "I've been thinking a lot about it, and I realize that it's hard to make the right decision," the gymnast told Suspilne Sport. Read also: Paris mayor speaks against Russians competing at Paris 2024 Olympics media reports On the one hand, we are athletes. We have to fight, prove, win, because we prepare and work for this. And on the other hand, when there is a war in your country, I just can't imagine how it is possible to walk on the same carpet with these people, stand on the same podium, even greet and talk. When they march at parades with Zs and support the war... I understand that this is impossible, and I believe that our government made the right decision. If there was such a situation in our sport, I would not have gone to compete with these athletes. Earlier, Olympian and MP Zhan Beleniuk said that Ukrainian athletes would watch the Olympics on TV. 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 Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the United Nations Secretary-General, has stated that it is inappropriate to compare the drone attack on Moscow with the regular missile attacks on Ukraine by the Russian Federation. Source: Ukrinform citing Dujarric Details: The spokesman emphasised that the UN condemns any attacks on civilian targets. According to him, the position of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres regarding attacks on civilian infrastructure remains unchanged. "But in no way can you compare the drone attack on Moscow with the constant shelling of Ukraine," said Dujarric. Background: According to various reports from Russian media, 25 to 32 drones attacked Moscow on the night of 29-30 May, damaging at least two multi-storey residential buildings, and most of the drones were reportedly shot down near the Russian capital. Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow's air defences were "operated properly" during the 30 May drone attack, but "there is still room for improvement". Vyorstka, a Russian media outlet, mapped the locations of the drone attacks in Moscow, including the areas of drone strikes and the points where explosions were reported. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang at right meets with Noeleen Heyzer, special envoy of the secretary-general of the United Nations (UN) for Myanmar, in Beijing on Monday, May 1, 2023. Qin called for stability and a crackdown on cross-border criminal activity along the country's border with Myanmar, during an unusual visit to the volatile region on Tuesday. (Pang Xinglei/Xinhua via AP) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) UNITED NATIONS (AP) Noeleen Heyzer, the U.N. special envoy for conflict-torn Myanmar, will be leaving the job in June, the United Nations announced Wednesday. She took on the job in October 2021 following the military coup in February of that year that ousted the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and has led to widespread armed resistance. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Heyzer, a former U.N. undersecretary-general, will leave on June 12 at the end of her contract. Her nearly 20 months in the post is less than half the time of her predecessor, Christine Schraner Burgener. On her first trip to Myanmar last August, Heyzer met the head of the military-installed government, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, and called on him to urgently halt all violence, support a political path back to civilian rule and democracy, and allow the imprisoned Suu Kyi to return home and to meet with her. But the military took no action, and in a grim assessment Heyzer told the 193-member U.N. General Assembly on March 16 that the impact of the military takeover has been devastating, with violence continuing at an alarming scale. Widespread popular resistance to brutal repression by the military shows no sign of abating across much of the country, Heyzer said, and with both sides intent on winning by force there is no prospect for a negotiated settlement. Dujarric said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is thankful to Heyzer for her tireless efforts on behalf of peace and the people of Myanmar. He said the secretary-general will appoint a new special envoy. Heyzer, a Singaporean, served from 1994 to 2007 as executive director of UNIFEM, one of the forerunners of the umbrella U.N. organization for women known as UN Women. She was the first woman to serve as executive secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, from 2007 to 2014, a post that gave her the rank of an undersecretary-general. UN Special Envoy for Myanmar, Noeleen Heyzer (C), seen here visiting a Rohingya refugee camp on August 23, 2022, is stepping down in mid-June 2023, according to the United Nations The United Nations special envoy for Myanmar will step down in June, a spokesman for the UN chief told AFP Wednesday, after an 18-month tenure in which she was criticised by the junta and its opponents. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military seized power in February 2021, ending a brief democratic experiment and sparking clashes with ethnic rebel groups and anti-coup fighters. Diplomatic efforts led by the UN and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc to resolve the crisis have so far failed to stem the bloodshed unleashed by the coup. Noeleen Heyzer, who was named envoy by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in October 2021, "will conclude her assignment on 12 June" when her contract ends, Stephane Dujarric said. Guterres "is thankful to Ms. Heyzer for her tireless efforts on behalf of peace and the people of Myanmar," the spokesman said, adding a new envoy would be appointed. Heyzer, a Singaporean sociologist, was tasked with urging the Myanmar junta to engage in political dialogue with its opponents and end a bloody crackdown it launched after toppling the government of Aung San Suu Kyi. She visited the Southeast Asian nation last August and met junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and other top military officials in a move criticised by rights groups as lending legitimacy to the generals. But she was denied a meeting with detained democracy figurehead Aung San Suu Kyi and later irked junta officials who accused her of issuing a "one-sided statement" of what had been discussed. She later vowed not to visit the country again unless she was allowed to meet Suu Kyi, who has since been jailed for a total of 33 years by a closed-door junta court. - Rebuffed - Backed by major allies and arms suppliers Russia and China, the generals have rebuffed several attempts to kickstart dialogue with opponents of its putsch. Former UN special envoy, Swiss diplomat Christine Schraner Burgener, was blocked by the junta from visiting the country and was the target of regular broadsides in Myanmar's state-backed media. Cambodian Foreign Minister and ASEAN envoy for Myanmar Prak Sokhonn visited Myanmar twice but both times the military denied him visits with Suu Kyi. More than 3,500 people have been killed in the military's crackdown since the coup, according to a local monitoring group. More than one million people have been displaced by the violence, according to the United Nations. bur/mlm Screenshot: Gizmodo Hundreds of thousands of Maryland vehicles are unknowingly a mobile advertisement for a Filipino casino after a license plate URL recently began redirecting to the gambling hall. Vice reports that in 2012, Maryland released a new license plate to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812. That license plate was apparently the default license plate for Maryland cars between 2012 and 2016, and featured a URL at the bottom to www.starspangled200.org. Sometime last year, however, that URL began to redirect to globeinternational.infothe homepage of a Filipino online casino. There, a scantily-clad woman advertises Phillippines Best Betting Site. Read more The website printed on the plates is not owned by the Motor Vehicle Administration. The plates design and content originated from the War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission created in 2007, John M. Lazarou, Director of Media Relations for the Maryland Department of Transportation, told Gizmodo in an email. Star-Spangled 200, Inc. is the nonprofit entity affiliated with the Commission that led the efforts to raise funds for bicentennial projects and events. The MVA does not endorse the views or content on the current website using that URL. A Redditor appears to be the first person to publicly notice the issue, posting on the Maryland subreddit two days ago. The Redditor also posted evidence that the domain has changed hands a few times, but that those webpages were all tied to government organizations like the state or the National Park Service. A spokesperson from the Maryland Department of Transportation told Vice that nearly 768,000 license plates bear the URL. As evidenced by the Wayback Machine, the redirect first occurred some time between August and December 2022. The previous version of the website took visitors to the homepage for the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, which runs throughout Maryland, Washington D.C. and Virginia. According to local reporting, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration is aware of the issue and is working with the agencys IT department to try and restore the URL. Update June 1 4:10 p.m. EST: This article was updated to include a statement from the Maryland Department of Transportation. More from Gizmodo Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Masterson arrives at the Los Angeles court to learn his fate with his wife, Bijou Phillips A jury in Los Angeles has found US actor Danny Masterson guilty on two out of three counts of rape. The star of That '70s Show, a TV series, faces up to 30 years in prison. He was led from court in handcuffs. Three women, all former members of the Church of Scientology, accused the actor of sexual assault at his Hollywood home from 2001-03. Prosecutors argued Masterson had relied on his status as a prominent Scientologist to avoid accountability. The jury of seven women and five men was unable to reach a verdict on a third count after a week of deliberations, ending up deadlocked at 8-4. One of his victims, who was raped in 2003, said in a statement quoted by the Associated Press: "I am experiencing a complex array of emotions - relief, exhaustion, strength, sadness - knowing that my abuser, Danny Masterson, will face accountability for his criminal behaviour." Masterson's wife, actress and model Bijou Phillips, wept as he was led away, CBS News reports. Other family and friends sat stone-faced. Another jury in an earlier trial was unable to reach a verdict in December 2022. Prosecutors chose to retry Masterson and this time the judge allowed attorneys to present new evidence that had been barred from the first trial. Though the actor was not charged with drugging his victims, the jury heard testimony that the women had been dosed before he raped them. Masterson was first accused of rape in 2017 during the height of the #MeToo movement. He responded by saying that he had not been charged or convicted of a crime, and that in the climate at the time "it seems as if you are presumed guilty the moment you are accused". Charges came after a three-year investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department. Prosecutors did not file charges in two other cases because of insufficient evidence and the statute of limitations expiring. Throughout the trial, prosecutors argued that the Church of Scientology had helped cover up the assaults - an allegation the organisation has categorically denied. In a statement after the verdict was announced, the International Church of Scientology claimed prosecutors' attacks on the Church during the trial were "an unprecedented violation of the First Amendment". "The Church was not a party to this case and religion did not belong in this proceeding," the organisation wrote on Twitter. "The District Attorney unconscionably centred his prosecution on the defendant's religion." At the time of the assaults, Masterson and all three of his accusers were Scientologists. Several of the women said it took them years to come forward because Church of Scientology officials discouraged them from reporting the rape to police. Instead, they were forced to rely on the Church's "internal justice system", prosecutors said. Scientology officials told one survivor she would be kicked out of the Church unless she signed a non-disclosure agreement and accepted a payment of $400,000 (320,000), according to prosecutors. Judge Charlaine Olmedo allowed both sides to discuss the dogma and practices of Scientology. But Deputy District Attorney Ariel Anson told jurors during the trial: "The Church taught his victims, 'Rape isn't rape, you caused this, and above all, you are never allowed to go to law enforcement.'" In its statement, the Church said there was "not a scintilla of evidence supporting the scandalous allegations that the Church harassed the accusers". Throughout the trial, the defence tried to undermine the credibility of the "Jane Does" by focusing on inconsistencies in their testimony and their supposed drive to get "revenge" against their former Church. During closing arguments, Masterson's defence lawyer said of the survivors: "If you are looking for motives why people are not being truthful there are motives all over the place." Although the Church of Scientology was not a defendant in the case, before closing arguments began, a lawyer with ties to the Church emailed the district attorney's office to complain about the way the Church was portrayed during the retrial. The defence also argued that the prosecution had relied heavily on testimony about drugging because there was an absence of evidence of any force or violence. Masterson's lawyers tried, unsuccessfully, to have a mistrial declared. PHILADELPHIA U.S. Army officials are considering asking companies to give them an inside look at the artificial intelligence algorithms they use to better understand their provenance and potential cybersecurity weak spots. The nascent AI bill of materials effort would be similar to existing software bill of materials practices, or SBOMs, the comprehensive lists of ingredients and dependencies that make up software, according to Young Bang, the principal deputy assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics and technology. Such disclosures are championed by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and other organizations. Were toying with the notion of an AI BOM. And thats because, really, were looking at things from a risk perspective, Bang told reporters on the sidelines of Technical Exchange Meeting X, a defense industry conference held May 24-25 in Philadelphia. Just like were securing our supply chain semiconductors, components, subcomponents were also thinking about that from a digital perspective. So were looking at software, data and AI. Young Bang, the principal deputy assistant secretary of the Army for acquisition, logistics and technology, speaks May 25, 2023, in Philadelphia at the service's Technical Exchange Meeting X. (Colin Demarest/C4ISRNET) Bang and others met with AI companies during the conference to gather feedback on the potential requirements. He did not share insights from the private get-together. The Pentagon is investing in AI, machine learning and autonomy as leaders demand quicker decision-making, longer and more-remote intelligence collection and a reduction of human risk on increasingly high-tech battlefields. The Defense Department in 2021 established its Chief Digital and AI Office, whose executives have since said high-quality data is foundational to all its pursuits. More than 685 AI-related projects are underway at the department, according to the Government Accountability Office, a federal watchdog, with at least 232 being handled by the Army. A peek under the algorithm hood, Bang said, is more about ruling out risk like Trojans, triggers, poison data sets, or prompting of unintentional outcomes, and less about reverse engineering and exposing sensitive intellectual property. I just want to make sure were explicit about this: Its not to get at vendor IP. Its really about, how do we manage the cyber risks and the vulnerabilities? he said. Were thinking about how do we work with industry. US Border Patrol chief Raul Ortiz, who has led border enforcement since 2021, is retiring U.S. Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz told his colleagues Tuesday that he has decided to retire, FOX News has confirmed. Ortiz, who manages roughly 20,000 Border Patrol agents as the law enforcement arm of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, informed his colleagues in a note Tuesday that he would be retiring effective Friday, June 30. He also said in the note that serving as Border Patrol chief, a post he held since he was appointed in August 2021, has "been one of the greatest honors and privileges." "I leave at ease, knowing we have a tremendous uniformed and professional workforce, strong relationships with our union partners, and outstanding leaders who will continue to tirelessly advocate for you each day," Ortiz said in the note. BORDER PATROL CHIEF AUTHORIZES RELEASE OF MIGRANTS INTO US WITHOUT COURT DATES AS TITLE 42 ENDS Ortiz navigated the Border Patrol through the COVID-19 pandemic and Title 42 emergency health restrictions. He has also been vocal about the Border Patrols struggle to maintain operational control of the United States-Mexico border. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP During a House Homeland Security Committee hearing in March, Chairman Mark Green, R-Tenn., asked him: "Does DHS have operational control of our entire border?" "No, sir," Ortiz replied. It's not immediately clear who will replace him. A migrant family sits after being processed on May 05, 2022 in Roma, Texas. CBP Acting Commissioner Troy A. Miller released a statement confirming the retirement. "Chief Ortiz is a true leader. I have benefited greatly from his partnership, expertise, wise counsel, and friendship over the years," Miller said. "Every single day, he champions the men and women of the Border Patrol and has worked tirelessly to ensure that they have the tools, resources, and support they need to do their jobs." BORDER PATROL ENCOUNTERS 10,000 MIGRANTS FOR THIRD DAY IN A ROW AS NUMBERS SWELL BEFORE TITLE 42 DROPS "He has numerous accolades and awards from his tenure in the Border Patrol, but the highest compliment we can bestow on him is that he is a great agent," he added. "I want to congratulate Chief Ortiz on his retirement after more than three decades of service to our country. I look forward to seeing him out on the water, fishing from his boat, as he enters this next and well-deserved chapter." A U.S. Border Patrol agent speaks to immigrants blocked from entering a high-traffic illegal border crossing area along Rio Grande in El Paso, Texas on December 20, 2022 as viewed from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection operates within the Department of Homeland Security and is charged with protecting the countrys international borders, including thousands of miles stretching between the U.S. with Mexico and Canada. On Tuesday, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas praised Ortiz and applauded his decision to remain as Border Patrol chief through previous contemplations of retirement. "Selecting him to lead the Border Patrol was among the most important decisions I have made," Mayorkas said. "Chief Ortiz agreed to postpone his retirement several times since and the Border Patrol, the Department, and our country have been all the better for it." Ortiz first joined the Border Patrol in the 1990s and has been an agent for 32 years. The Associated Press contributed to this report. 2023 ZGC Forum: Spirit of Chinese scientists drives rise of tech innovation 09:51, May 31, 2023 By Gai Keke , Yu Jing ( CGTN The 2023 Zhongguancun Forum is taking place in Beijing from May 25 to 30, themed "Open Cooperation for a Shared Future." Over 650 IT enterprises from more than 80 countries are attending the event. This year's forum focuses on the exhibition of cutting-edge technologies, from artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain to quantum science and a new generation of semiconductors. The Zhongguancun Forum reveals China to be an innovation powerhouse and shows how much progress Chinese scientists and practitioners have made. In 2018, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for the development of China into a science and technology power at the opening of the 19th Meeting of the Academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the 14th Meeting of the Academicians of the Chinese Academy of Engineering. To meet this goal, five areas were identified tech innovation, independent tech development, scientific and technological system reform, involvement in global technology governance and talent development strategy. President Xi's statement ushered in a new era of high-quality development for Chinese tech innovation. The spirit of Chinese scientists was well defined by a document issued by the State Council in June, 2019, which distilled President Xi's advocacy of scientists into a few points patriotism, innovation and courage, truth-seeking, dedication and concentration, collaboration and promoting young successors. Many Chinese scientists devote their energies and intelligence to the scientific and technological research needed by our nation. A demand-driven approach is always a primary target when we think of innovation. Teamwork is vital when looking to address key technological obstacles, which require groups of scientists to dedicate themselves to long-term objectives. Thus, many breakthroughs are the consequence of multi-generational work. At the Zhongguancun Forum, we also can find some hints about the spirit of Chinese scientists. AI, for instance, provides attendees with a direct immersive experience of the metaverse. Through human-machine interaction, AI-centered solutions point to a bright digital market. Chinese scholars are open to international collaboration and feel comfortable sharing knowledge and opinions with global colleagues. There is also scope for exchanging ideas and advanced digital products for constructing digital ecosystems, thanks to progress made in key fields of technology. Many AI applications have exhibited a leading functionality or performance and these achievements are a result of extensive research and development. Based on their solid work, Chinese IT scientists have greater ambitions to push the boundaries of their research and explore new fields of cutting-edge technology. Another example is blockchain application. Many Chinese scientists are developing consortium blockchain technology that differs from the mainstream direction (public blockchain) of other countries. This persistence derives from our nation's requirement for a self-developed blockchain infrastructure employed in variety of application scenarios. Stories or experiences such as these will surely encourage more scholars to become pioneers in emerging fields of technology. In summary, the spirit of Chinese scientists has been crucial to our nation for decades. Enthusiasm and dedication are among the many contributions Chinese scientists have brought to today's Zhongguancun forum. (Gai Keke is a professor of the School of Cyberspace and Science and Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, and Yu Jing is an associate professor of the Institute of Information Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences.) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) ISLAMABAD, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan is proud of its long-standing association and contribution to the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping operations, Pakistan's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar said Wednesday. The minister made the remarks in an event marking the 75th anniversary of UN peacekeeping, organized in collaboration with the UN, in the Pakistani Foreign Ministry, the ministry said in a statement. Khar paid tribute to the services and sacrifices rendered by UN peacekeepers for advancing the shared goals of peace all over the world and reaffirmed Pakistan's strong commitment to and support for the UN peacekeeping and peacebuilding architecture. "Today we are celebrating the more than 80,000 brave peacekeepers - women and men - who are carrying out the extremely important task of creating peace around the world," said Knut Ostby, Resident Representative in Pakistan of the United Nations Development Programme, who spoke on behalf of the United Nations. Pakistan is among the largest troop-contributing countries to UN peacekeeping with nearly 4,334 military and police personnel currently serving in nine locations around the world, said the ministry. The event paid homage to the more than 200,000 Pakistani personnel who have served in 46 UN Missions since 1960, including 171 who lost their lives, according to the ministry. US and China intertwined like conjoined twins, says Musk Tesla Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk gets in a Tesla car as he leaves a hotel in Beijing (REUTERS) Elon Musk said the interests of the US and China are intertwined like conjoined twins during his surprise visit to China on Tuesday amid strained diplomatic ties between the countries. The Tesla billionaire reached Beijing in his first visit to the country in over three years, visited Chinas top ministries and discussed electric vehicles. Mr Musk also met Chinas foreign, commerce, and industry ministers and dined with Zeng Yuqun, the chairman of top battery supplier CATL. The visit garnered a lot of attention in China and revealed adulation for Mr Musk from Chinese social media users, even as the relationship between Washington and Beijing plummeted. The interests of the United States and China are intertwined like conjoined twins, Mr Musk was quoted as saying by the foreign ministry of China. He was later also quoted by the countrys commerce ministry as saying that relations between the two countries were not a zero-sum game in which one side must lose if the other were to win. While little is known of the discussions the Twitter chief is having as he remains unusually quiet on social media Mr Musk and industry minister Jin Zhuanglong exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent networked vehicles, said the ministry. China, responsible for half of all global electric vehicle sales, serves as the location for Teslas first factory outside the US. The company reportedly submitted applications to expand its production facilities in Shanghai. Mr Musks plans were still awaiting approval as he earlier said it faces some constraints. The talks are expected to be aimed at easing this expansion, believe observers. The billionaires visit has also generated a lot of interest among Chinas netizens. Some called him a pioneer and Brother Ma, in an oblique reference to Jack Ma, while others said he should become the next US president. Hes a global idol, wrote one Chinese social media user. Elon Musk is just great, if only China could have someone like Elon Musk, said another. A worker stands next to a Tesla being charged in Beijing (AP) In recent months, foreign companies have been facing increasing pressure in China, with a recent crackdown on international consulting firms. Both the US and China have also imposed restrictions on each others chipmakers. American companies are also facing pressure from outside as increasing threats of military escalation with Taiwan forces businesses to diversify their supply chains away from China. Mr Musk, however, touted the Asian countrys development as its ministers assured they were looking at increased cooperation. The Chinese government statement cited Mr Musk as saying Tesla was willing to expand its business in China and opposes decoupling a reference to fears the world may split into multiple markets with incompatible products. China's foreign minister Qin Gang, right, poses for photos with Tesla chief Elon Musk (AP) On Tuesday, foreign minister Qin Gang told Mr Musk that China will unswervingly promote high-level opening up and create a market-oriented, law-based and internationalised business environment, said the government statement. Chinas development is an opportunity for the world, it said. Musk said that the China-US relationship is not a zero-sum game. He thanked China for its support and guarantee for Tesla's Shanghai factory during the COVID-19 epidemic. He praised the vitality and potential of China's development, expressed full confidence in the Chinese market https://t.co/LvXrLNV7V4 Global Times (@globaltimesnews) May 31, 2023 Mr Qin also told Mr Musk that Chinas electric vehicle market has broad prospects for development. Mr Musk is expected to meet other senior Chinese officials and visit the Shanghai plant later in the week, reported Reuters citing sources. With China's economy also experiencing a slowdown and facing internal and external challenges, like anti-monopoly measures and the US-Chinese political tensions respectively, the ruling Communist Party has been engaging with more prominent CEOs off late. Chinese premier Li Qiang earlier held discussions with Apples Tim Cook, Pfizers Albert Bourla, Rio Tintos Jakob Stausholm and Toshiaki Higashihara of Hitachi, reiterating China's commitment to creating a favourable business environment. US will continue to provide Ukraine with weapons despite attack on Moscow White House John Kirby Read also: Biden says new opportunities opened for Ukrainian military by F-16 supply At the same time, he reiterated that Washington does not approve of attacks on Russian territory. "The Biden administration has been clear, privately and publicly, with the Ukrainians that we don't support attacks on Russian soil," CNN quotes Kirby. "We are going to continue to give them what they need to defend themselves and defend their territory, Ukrainian soil, but we don't support attacks on in Russia." Kirby noted that the White House agrees that the Ukrainian people have the right to self-defense, but they fear a possible escalation of the conflict. "We agree that Ukrainians has the right of self-defense my goodness, over the last 15 months, we've been doing very little else other than helping them defend themselves and defend their territory against this Russian aggression, the official said. Read also: Issue of providing Ukraine with ATACMS missiles still in play, says Biden What we have said is we don't want to encourage or enable attacks inside Russia, because we don't want to see the war escalate beyond the violence has already visited upon the Ukrainian people. The White House also noted that they are still trying to obtain information about the drone attack on Moscow on May 30, but there is still nothing concrete to report on that. Kirby stressed that Ukrainian officials assured the United States that they will not use U.S.-provided equipment for attacks inside Russia. Read also: US sending more Zuni rockets to Ukraine, and how Ukraine uses them They have given us assurances that they won't use our equipment to strike inside Russia; but once it goes to them, it belongs to them (the Ukrainians), he concluded. On May 30, Moscow was attacked by several small drones carrying explosive payloads. The Russian Ministry of Defense and dictator Vladimir Putin blamed Ukraine for this. Read also: Amid strikes targeting Moscow, Kremlin's main hospital to urgently construct bomb shelter Ukrainian officials deny Kyivs involvement in the attacks on the Russian capital. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine By David Morgan, Richard Cowan and Moira Warburton WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A divided U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill to suspend the $31.4 trillion debt ceiling on Wednesday, with majority support from both Democrats and Republicans to overcome opposition led by hardline conservatives and avoid a catastrophic default. The Republican-controlled House voted 314-117 to send the legislation to the Senate, which must enact the measure and get it to President Joe Biden's desk before a Monday deadline, when the federal government is expected to run out of money to pay its bills. "This agreement is good news for the American people and the American economy," Biden said after the vote. "I urge the Senate to pass it as quickly as possible so that I can sign it into law." The measure, a compromise between Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, drew opposition from 71 hardline Republicans. That would normally be enough to block partisan legislation, but 165 Democrats - more than the 149 Republicans who voted for it - backed the measure and pushed it through. Republicans control the House by a narrow 222-213 majority. The legislation suspends - in essence, temporarily removes - the federal government's borrowing limit through Jan. 1, 2025. The timeline allows Biden and Congress to set aside the politically risky issue until after the November 2024 presidential election. It would also cap some government spending over the next two years, speed up the permitting process for certain energy projects, claw back unused COVID-19 funds and expand work requirements for food aid programs to additional recipients. Hardline Republicans had wanted deeper spending cuts and more stringent reforms. "At best, we have a two-year spending freeze that's full of loopholes and gimmicks," said Representative Chip Roy, a prominent member of the hardline House Freedom Caucus. Progressive Democrats - who along with Biden had resisted negotiating over the debt ceiling - oppose the bill for a few reasons, including new work requirements from some federal anti-poverty programs. "Republicans are forcing us to decide which vulnerable Americans get to eat or they'll throw us into default. It's just plain wrong," said Democratic Representative Jim McGovern on Wednesday. Late on Tuesday, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office said the legislation would result in $1.5 trillion in savings over a decade. That is below the $4.8 trillion in savings that Republicans aimed for in a bill they passed through the House in April, and also below the $3 trillion in deficit that Biden's proposed budget would have reduced over that time through new taxes. SENATE UP NEXT In the Senate, leaders of both parties said they hoped to move to enact the legislation before the weekend. But a potential delay over amendment votes could complicate matters. Republicans said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell could need to allow votes on Republican amendments to ensure quick action. But Schumer appeared to rule out amendments on Wednesday, telling reporters: "We cannot send anything back to the House, plain and simple. We must avoid default." Senate debate and voting could stretch into the weekend, especially if any one of the 100 senators tries to slow passage. Hardline Republican Senator Rand Paul, long known for delaying important Senate votes, has said he would not hold up passage if allowed to offer an amendment for a floor vote. Senator Bernie Sanders, a progressive independent who caucuses with the Democrats, said he would oppose the bill due to inclusion of an energy pipeline and extra work requirements. "I cannot, in good conscience, vote for the debt ceiling deal," Sanders said on Twitter. In a win for Republicans, the bill would shift some funding away from the Internal Revenue Service, although the White House says that should not undercut tax enforcement. Biden can point to gains as well. The deal leaves his signature infrastructure and green-energy laws largely intact, and the spending cuts and work requirements are far less than Republicans had sought. Republicans have argued that steep spending cuts are necessary to curb the growth of the national debt, which at $31.4 trillion is roughly equal to the annual output of the economy. Interest payments on that debt are projected to eat up a growing share of the budget as an aging population pushes up health and retirement costs, according to government forecasts. The deal would not do anything to rein in those fast-growing programs. Most of the savings would come by capping spending on domestic programs like housing, education, scientific research and other forms of "discretionary" spending. Military spending would be allowed to increase over the next two years. The debt-ceiling standoff prompted ratings agencies to warn that they might downgrade U.S. debt, which underpins the global financial system. Credit rating agency DBRS Morningstar put the United States on review for a possible downgrade last week, echoing similar warnings by Fitch, Moody's and Scope Ratings. Another agency, S&P Global, downgraded U.S. debt following a similar debt-ceiling standoff in 2011 during a similar partisan divide with a Democratic president and Senate majority and a Republican-majority House. (Reporting by David Morgan, Richard Cowan and Moira Warburton, additional reporting by Gram Slattery, Julio-Cesar Chavez and Kanishka Singh; Editing by Scott Malone, Rosalba O'Brien, Alistair Bell, Diane Craft and Lincoln Feast) An American living abroad was arrested last week on a charge of threatening US senators and political groups over the number of unsolicited political emails he was receiving, the Justice Department announced Tuesday. Eric Charles Welton, who has lived in Thailand for more than a decade, allegedly made multiple threatening calls from overseas in 2021 to the offices of North Carolina Republican Sen. Thom Tillis and then-Sen. Richard Burr, according to court documents. Welton, 51, was arrested Thursday at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport as he returned to the United States from overseas, according to the Justice Department. He is facing one count of threatening a federal official and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. A lawyer for Welton is not yet listed on the public docket and he has not yet entered a formal plea. CNN has reached out to Burr and Tillis for comment. During the calls, Welton allegedly threatened to kill people in the senators offices, saying that he would fly back over there and put a bullet through each of your heads, the court documents said. Welton allegedly railed against the number of emails he was getting, telling one staffer that he would find whoever sent the emails and cut off that persons hands. Welton also made calls to the White House switchboard and various advocacy groups, the court documents said. In an interview with agents, Weltons father said that Welton claimed to have received 600 unsolicited political emails and was set off by ideas he did not agree with, according to the court documents. Welton also threated US Marines working in Thailand, according to court documents, after the US consulate in the country denied a visa application for his wife, who is a citizen of Thailand. Now Im going to kill a bunch of Marines and thats about all where it is, because you m*ther**kers are so f**king useless and worthless and thats all you can tell me, Welton allegedly said in a voicemail to the consulate in November. So, you want those f**king Marines to live, you f**king contact me back. Walton continued by issuing threats to kill everybody in your f**cking office, the court documents said. According to the criminal complaint, Welton lived near the consulate in Thailand and the US evaluated extraditing Welton to the US. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com US govt sent $1.3 billion to China, Russia for gender equality, cat experiments and Wuhan lab research The U.S. government has given Chinese and Russian entities at least $1.3 billion for various research programs over the past five years, according to an analysis released Wednesday by Republican Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst and watchdog group Open the Books. The analysis revealed that millions of taxpayer dollars have been given to, among others, a Chinese software developer for military tech support, a Russian health insurance provider that has since been sanctioned and Chinese agriculture companies. And it showed the federal government gave $2 million, more than previously reported, to the Chinese state-run Wuhan lab studying bat coronaviruses. "Washingtons continued spending is so out of hand, it is losing track of Americans hard-earned taxpayer dollars, but I am creating accountability for every penny," Ernst said in a statement after releasing the report. "It is gravely concerning that no one in Washington can actually account for millions sent to Russia and China for pointless projects," the Iowa Republican continued. "But I have the receipts. Im shining a light on this reckless spending, so bureaucrats can no longer cover up their tracks and taxpayers can know exactly what their hard-earned dollars are funding." FBI DIRECTOR SAYS COVID PANDEMIC 'MOST LIKELY' ORIGINATED FROM CHINESE LAB Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, said she released the report Wednesday "so bureaucrats can no longer cover up their tracks." In addition to releasing the analysis, Ernst introduced the Tracking Receipts to Adversarial Countries for Knowledge of Spending (TRACKS) Act that would require all federal funding for organizations in China and Russia to be tracked and disclosed. Rep. Mike Gallagher, R-Wisc., who chairs the China Select Committee, introduced companion legislation in the House. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Overall, using data obtained from the Congressional Research Service, Ernst and Open the Books tracked $490 million in U.S. grants and contracts paid to Chinese entities and another $870 million paid to Russian entities. The Government Accountability Office previously estimated the U.S. funneled just $48 million to Chinese entities over the five-year period ending in 2021. BIPARTISAN GROUP OF LAWMAKERS DEMANDS BIDEN SEIZE IRANIAN OIL AND GAS SHIPMENTS, ENFORCE TRUMP-ERA PROGRAM According to Ernst's analysis, one program, a $58.7 million State Department grant, included giving a Chinese organization, Beijing-based Crossroads Cultural Communication, $96,875 for "gender equality" through the exhibition of New Yorker magazine cartoons. "To increase awareness on gender equality and women empowerment through an exhibition of works by women cartoonists of the New Yorker Magazine in China," the 2021 grant description states. President Biden shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Indonesia on Nov. 14, 2022. Another, a $51.6 million grant from the Department of Defense, resulted in $6 million in funding for Chinese tech firm Beijing Juehua Trading Co. to provide "deployment and distribution command" software for the U.S. military. And Chinese food producers were awarded $1.6 million under the Department of Agriculture's National School Lunch Program, which was designed to assist domestic producers. The $2 million in research funding for the Wuhan Institute of Virology the Chinese lab some experts have blamed for leaking coronavirus, sparking the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 included $1.1 million from the U.S. Agency for International Development and $600,000 from the National Institutes of Health. The funding was indirectly transferred through EcoHealth Alliance, a U.S. non-governmental organization. In addition, a $4.2 million Health and Human Services program granted $770,466 to the Pavlov Institute, a state-run lab located in St. Petersburg, Russia, to experiment on cats running on treadmills. The Biden administration ultimately cut off funding for the program after criticism from groups like White Coat Waste and Republican lawmakers. Ernst's analysis also showed that the federal government wired $4.7 million to Russian company PAO Rosgosstrakh for health insurance. That same company was sanctioned by the Treasury Department amid the Ukraine invasion in 2022. Also, $1.45 million was granted to entities in Russia for COVID-19 pandemic virus tracking. US sending more Zuni rockets to Ukraine, and how Ukraine uses them Zuni air defense rocket Up to 4,000 Zuni rockets were previously included in the record $3 billion package of U.S. assistance to Ukraine announced on Jan. 6, 2023. NV offers what you need to know about the nature and specification of Zuni rockets. Background Zuni is a U.S. unguided air-to-surface rocket. The rockets took their name from the Zuni Indian tribe that lives in the U.S. state of New Mexico. The U.S. Army adopted these rockets in the late 1950s, arming F-89 and F-4 fighters, as well as all types of attack aircraft. The missile was originally designed to engage small ground and surface targets, like tanks, small vessels, and artillery batteries. Main characteristics of Zuni rockets Rocket weight - 57-61.7 kg (depending on the modification) Length - 2 m Diameter - 12 cm Speed - 2,599 km/h (for comparison, the speed of sound in dry air at20 C is 1,236 km/h) Range - 8 km The rocket is launched from LAU-10 rocket containers, each of which accommodates four Zuni rockets. The Zuni was developed as a modular system that allows the use of different types of warheads and fuses. The projectile can be equipped withvarious warheads, including high-explosive, high-explosive fragmentation warheads, and others. Types of Zuni rocket warheads Mk.24 - high explosive - explodes 9 meters from the target, generates more than 500 fragments that can penetrate 50 mm armor Mk.32 - high-explosive anti-tank fragmentation rocket - after the explosion, more than 2,000 fragments are formed, designed to destroy manpower and lightly armored vehicles Mk.33 - illumination - the charge, which is dropped by parachute, burns for 70 seconds Mk.34 - smoke - used to camouflage vehicles and manpower Mk.63 - high-explosive fragmentation - after the explosion, more than 2,000 fragments are formed, designed to destroy manpower and lightly armored vehicles (heavier version of Mk.32) Mk.84 - for electronic suppression - 12 cassettes with dipole reflectors used to create electronic interference In addition, the North American division of MBDA has created a laser-guided rocket, the Laser Guided Zuni. The warhead of this projectile is a high-explosive Mk.24, with a range of 16 kilometers. This rocket is also launched from LAU-10 rocket containers. Use in Ukraine In early May 2023, the Ukrainian Armed Forces showed off its Zuni rockets for the first time. In a photo released shortly after Russia attacked a residential high-rise building in Uman, killing 23 people including several children, Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, showed the rockets next to Ukrainian forces aircraft with the inscription: "For the children of Uman and the people of Uman!" The biggest mystery is how the Ukrainian Armed Forces managed to modify these rockets for Soviet aircraft, said specialized portal Defense Express. "I think I trust our engineers, and I certainly trust the Ukrainian engineers. So, they did it successfully. This is what is possible," said Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Laura Cooper at the beginning of 2023. The U.S. Department of Defense also noted that the Ukrainian Armed Forces have already managed to use HARM missiles from the MiG-29 very effectively, and that Zuni is one of the "attempts to help them (the Ukrainians) make their existing fleet of aircraft as effective as possible." The Pentagon noted that this rocket will strengthen both airplanes and helicopters of the Ukrainian Air Force. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine (Bloomberg) -- The US urged Serbia and Kosovo to immediately de-escalate tensions in northern Kosovo after clashes injured dozens of peacekeepers and protesters, intensifying the international call for calm. Most Read from Bloomberg US Secretary of State Antony Blinken blamed Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurtis government for unnecessarily inflaming ties with the minority Serb community and urged newly elected, ethnic-Albanian mayors to avoid working in predominantly Serb towns where violence erupted this week. Kosovo police should also withdraw, he said in a statement late Tuesday. Serbia should call its troops to stand down after President Aleksandar Vucic put them on high alert last week, Blinken said. Vucic should also urge Serbs in Kosovo to halt challenges to KFOR and refrain from further violence, he added, in reference to the NATO peacekeeping force. The statement underscored growing impatience in Washington, which has backed a European Union-brokered negotiation process to resolve a standoff that is blocking both Serbia and Kosovo from making progress toward EU membership. That process was essentially hamstrung last week when, following an election that Serbs living in northern Kosovo boycotted and declared invalid, ethnic-Albanian mayors tried to access their offices under police escort. Protesters clashed with police, triggering the deployment of NATO-led peacekeeping troops, with 30 soldiers in the KFOR mission and dozens of Serbs hurt in fresh violence on Monday. The US has decided to exclude Kosovo from the large military exercise Defender Europe 2023. The unusually sharp rebuke is a blow to Kosovo, which depends on the US for financial aid and security, as well as backing in its push for further international recognition of its independence. That didnt sit well with Kosovo Prime Minister Kurti, who described Blinkens rebuke as unfair, wrong, hurtful and naive in a social media post on Wednesday. The initial trigger for the protests was the municipal election held in April which local Serbs boycotted, with the encouragement of Serbian President Vucic. Kurti pressed ahead with the vote, despite warnings from the US and the EU that it would exacerbate tensions. The standoff continued on Wednesday. Hundreds of protesters gathered in the morning hours in the Serb-majority towns of Leposaviq and Zvecan, waving Serbian flags. They repeated demands that the newly elected ethnic-Albanian mayors leave their offices and that Kosovo police be withdrawn, former Zvecan official Srdjan Milovic told the Pristina-based Koha news service. Kurti rejected the demands, saying that as long as this violent mob outside who is ready to attack remains, he will keep Kosovo police on site. He added that if Serb protesters would peacefully ask for a new election, he would listen. What we can do within law and still be doing politics, is at some point early elections, he said at the GLOBSEC Security conference in Bratislava, Slovakia. But we cannot say that these mayors are not mayors. While the most substantive issue is Serbias refusal to recognize the independence of Kosovo, which formalized its break from Belgrade in 2008, the enmity between the two communities dates back to the war in Kosovo a generation ago. By putting his army on high alert and moving some units nearer to the border on Friday, Vucics actions are fueling concerns about just how far the situation in northern Kosovo could deteriorate. Belgrade was forced by NATO to withdraw its forces from Kosovo in 1999. The flareup comes at a critical moment for the western allies who have backed the Kosovo state since its creation. Russias war in Ukraine, meanwhile, means western diplomats have limited bandwidth to focus on another flareup on the European continent. I call on all sides to step away from confrontation, and to take measures to restore calm, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in Bratislava. Russia and China have both backed Serbias position, adding a geopolitical dimension to the dispute, and helping perpetuate the divisions that haunt the countries of the former Yugoslavia. China and Serbia are iron-clad friends, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters on Wednesday. China respects Serbias efforts to safeguard sovereignty and territory, she said. --With assistance from Jan Bratanic. (Updates with Kosovar premiers comments in 10th paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee hearing to discuss election security and the 2020 election process, in Washington (Adds dropped word in second paragraph to clarify Krebs was interviewed) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. special counsel investigating former President Donald Trump and efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss are examining his firing of a cybersecurity official whose office said the vote was secure, the New York Times said on Wednesday. Special Counsel Jack Smith, who is also probing Trump's handling of classified documents, has subpoenaed former Trump White House staff as well as interviewed Christopher Krebs, who oversaw the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency under Trump, the Times said, citing unnamed sources familiar with the matter. Trump fired Krebs in November 2020, days after the CISA issued a statement calling the Nov. 3, 2020, election "the most secure in American history" at a time of the then-president's unsupported accusations the vote had been rigged. CISA, part of the Department of Homeland Security, works to protect U.S. elections from hackers but drew Trump's ire at the time, leading Krebs to tell associates at the time that he expected to be fired. Representatives for Smith's office declined to comment on the report. Representatives for Krebs and Trump could not immediately be reached for comment. The front-runner in the race for the Republican 2024 presidential nomination, Trump has persisted in making unfounded claims of widespread election fraud and promised pardons for his supporters who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in a failed effort to block congressional certification of Democrat Joe Biden's presidential victory. Smith is leading a grand jury investigation into Trump's actions around his election loss. A special bipartisan U.S. House of Representatives committee last year urged the Department of Justice to charge Trump with multiple crimes, including inciting or aiding an insurrection. In the state of Georgia, a county prosecutor also is probing alleged interference in the state's 2020 election with charging decisions expected by Sept. 1. Trump also faces several other legal threats, including Smith's probe into classified documents found at Trump's personal residence in Florida after the former president left the White House in early 2021. A New York grand jury in March indicted Trump for falsifying business records related to a hush money payment to a porn star before the 2016 election. New York's attorney general has sued Trump and his company for alleged fraud. Trump has denied all the allegations and accused prosecutors of a political "witch hunt." (This story has been refiled to clarify that Krebs was interviewed, in paragraph 2) (Writing by Susan Heavey; Editing by Howard Goller) Abuduwaili Abudureheman's university colleagues say he is safe in Seoul Rights group Amnesty International has corrected its report alleging a Uyghur student went missing from Hong Kong airport, saying he is "accounted for". "Abuduwaili Abudureheman... told us he did not travel to Hong Kong, contrary to previous information received," the group's correction read. Mr Abuduwaili is safe in Seoul, his base for the last seven years, his university colleagues say. The Hong Kong government is calling on Amnesty to "apologise". "We will continue to strive to offer support to people who reach out to us when they believe they or their loved ones are at risk," Amnesty said in a correction added to its original report. Amnesty had claimed on Friday that Mr Abuduwaili had boarded a flight from Seoul to Hong Kong on 10 May, before losing contact with family and friends. His last correspondence, Amnesty said, was a text message to a friend claiming "he was being interrogated by Chinese police after arriving at Hong Kong airport". The Hong Kong government refuted the allegations at the time. On Monday, the dean at Seoul's Kookmin University's College of Physical Education - where Mr Abuduwaili is studying for a doctorate - contradicted Amnesty's report in an interview with Yonhap News Agency. Cho Wook-yeon said he had been in constant contact with Mr Abuduwaili, who had recently confirmed with Mr Cho that he was in Seoul. "Abudureheman has not left Hong Kong and is staying in Korea safely," he said, adding that he was "surprised" to see reports of the disappearance. A director at the college repeated this account when contacted by the BBC. The BBC contacted Mr Abuduwaili for a response, but the student has yet to reply. Amnesty referred the BBC to its corrected statement when asked about the university staff's statements. The rights organisation has yet to respond to follow-up questions on how it verified the initial claims about Mr Abuduwaili and his latest statement to Amnesty. In response to Amnesty's correction, the Hong Kong government said the organisation had "maliciously smeared" and "slandered" Hong Kong and China, and called for a "sincere apology (made) responsibly". Beijing has been accused of committing crimes against humanity and possible genocide against the Uyghur population and other mostly-Muslim ethnic groups in China's north-western Xinjiang region, which are allegations the government strenuously denies. There are about 12 million Uyghurs in Xinjiang, and the region is cloaked in a pervasive network of surveillance, including police, checkpoints, and cameras that scan everything from number plates to individual faces. A landmark UN report released in 2022 accused China of "serious human rights violations" in Xinjiang that "may constitute international crimes, in particular crimes against humanity". It also urged China to release "all individuals arbitrarily deprived of their liberty". Beijing called the UN report a "farce" arranged by Western powers. The US, UK and international human rights monitors have accused Beijing of detaining about one million Uyghurs in so-called "re-education camps", separating children from their families and breaking their cultural traditions. Additional reporting by Joel Guinto. Vanessa Williams says she did her own stunts for the 2000 film 'Shaft' while pregnant Vanessa Williams in "Shaft" (left) and at an event in 2023 (right). Getty Images / Handout, Randy Shropshire/Getty Images Vanessa Williams told Elle she did some of her own stunts while pregnant for the 2000 film "Shaft." She said it was a tough shoot and a "strange period of time" for her to be pregnant. Williams worked with Samuel L. Jackson for the first time when filming the iconic action thriller. Vanessa Williams says she did her own stunts for the 2000 film "Shaft" while pregnant. The iconic actor, now 60 years old, told Elle Magazine that she was at the beginning of her pregnancy with her fourth child, Sasha, when she filmed the John Singleton production, which also stars Samuel L. Jackson and Richard Roundtree. "So I had to play this tough badass and had to do my own stunts," Williams told Elle. "The scariest moment was probably when I get shot and have to be propelled back into a pile of garbage knowing that I was with child." She added that it was a very "strange period of time" for her because she had just gotten married for the second time, was pregnant, and was working with Jackson for the first time "on a tough schedule." The action thriller a sequel to the 1971 film of the same name was filmed all over New York and at nighttime, Williams told Elle, making it a "tough shoot." Read the original article on Insider KABUL, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Mohammad Nasir Akhund has been appointed acting Finance Minister of the Afghan interim government, according to Afghanistan's news broadcaster TOLOnews Wednesday. "Based on the decree of the Islamic Emirate Supreme Leader, Mohammad Nasir Akhund has been appointed acting Minister of Finance," the Taliban government's spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on his Twitter page. According to the source, Nasir Akhund has expertise in finance and is expected to bring a positive change to the country's financial system. Before this, Akhund was the deputy finance minister for the revenue and customs. Hedayatullah Badri, who had been Afghanistan's finance minister for almost two years, has now been appointed as the governor of Da Afghanistan Bank, the country's central bank. The Vatican issued a decree Wednesday giving Bishop Michael Olson governing authority over a Carmelite monastery in Arlington embroiled in a legal battle against the bishop and the Fort Worth Catholic Diocese. Bishop Michael Olson is investigating allegations that the Reverend Mother Superior Teresa Agnes Gerlach violated her chastity vows with a priest from outside of the diocese. Gerlach and Sister Francis Therese sued the diocese and the bishop, arguing that Pope Francis has governing authority over the the nuns and that the bishop overstepped his authority when he kept priests from celebrating daily Mass at the monastery. The Fort Worth Catholic Diocese said in a statement Wednesday that the Holy See had issued a decree appointing Olson as the pontifical commissary of the monastery. As Pontifical Commissary, Bishop Olson is the Popes representative in this matter, the statement read. Olson has been conducting an investigation into a report that Gerlach violated her chastity vows with a priest. Matthew Bobo, an attorney representing the nuns, could not be reached for comment Wednesday regarding the statement from the diocese. Bobo told the Star-Telegram previously that the accusations against Gerlach are absolutely false and have no basis. Gerlach uses a wheelchair and relies on constant medical care. She uses a feeding tube and is unable to speak and must rely on her cell phone and iPad for writing. After receiving the report, Olson demanded that the reverend mother turn over her laptop, iPad and cell phone, and told Gerlach and Sister Francis Therese that they could not handle the administrative duties of the monastery. Meanwhile, supporters of the Carmelite nuns gathered at a park near the monastery Wednesday afternoon to pray. Several supporters, including Janice Vonada of Keller, brought red roses to the monastery gates. Vonada described how she attended Mass daily at the monastery when she lived in Arlington, and how she would ask the nuns for prayer when her husband experienced health problems. The nuns have lived quietly on 72 wooded acres near South Bowen Road and West Sublett Road since 1958. The Sisters of Carmel are withdrawn from the world and spend much of their day in silent prayer. The order has existed since 1562. In a letter to the nuns, Olson stated that Gerlach and the nuns orchestrated a hate campaign against him and blamed them for bringing the attention of international media, CBS Texas reported Monday. A view of a former monastery, in Rome, Monday, May 29, 2023, situated on a quiet residential street. It once sheltered Jews fleeing deportation in World War II. Purchased by the Vatican in 2021 as a dormitory for foreign nuns studying at Romes pontifical universities, the building now stands empty, a collateral victim of the latest financial scandal to hit the Holy See. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) VATICAN CITY (AP) The former monastery on a quiet residential street in Rome once sheltered Jews fearing deportation during World War II. Purchased by the Vatican in 2021 as a dormitory for foreign nuns studying at Romes pontifical universities, the building now stands empty, a collateral victim of the latest financial scandal to hit the Holy See. Pope Francis has asked aides to get to the bottom of how at least $17 million, including money to refurbish the dorm, was transferred from the Vaticans U.S.-based missionary fundraising coffers into an impact investing vehicle run by a priest, The Associated Press has learned. Two years later, the U.S. fundraiser says the money is gone, and the monastery is shuttered. Its renovation is tied up in bureaucratic red tape, while the nuns studying in Rome are still housed at a convent a 90-minute commute away. The story of what happened to the money is one that has vexed Vatican officials on both sides of the Atlantic, all the more because the transfers appear entirely legal. But they have nevertheless prompted the new leadership of the Vaticans missionary fundraising operation in the U.S., The Pontifical Mission Societies, to replace the staff and board of directors who approved them, and overhaul its bylaws and statutes, to make sure nothing like this ever happens again. And for now, the organization known as TPMS-US has written off $10.2 million of the total transferred as a loss since there is no timeline and no guarantee of investment return, according to its latest audited financial statement. The money was transferred from TPMS-US into a New York-based non-profit, Missio Corp., and its private equity fund, MISIF LLC, both of which were created by the Rev. Andrew Small while he was the national director of TPMS-US. Both financial vehicles aim to raise capital to provide low-interest loans and investments to church-run farming initiatives in Africa. MISIF LLC is known as an impact investing fund because it seeks to do social good as well as provide a financial return. The bulk of the money was transferred to Small's new initiatives in 2021, right before Small ended his 10-year tenure at TPMS-US. Small, a British-born Oblate of the Mary Immaculate priest, remains CEO of Missio Corp., while now serving on a temporary basis as the No. 2 at the Vaticans child protection advisory board. In a series of emailed responses to AP questions, Small strongly defended the money transfers as fully approved and in the best interest of the church and TPMS-US. He provided letters from grateful bishops and nuns in Africa who have benefited from Missio Corp.s low-interest loans, as well as letters from two Vatican cardinals expressing interest in his impact investing initiatives. But the transfers have, at least temporarily, reduced the endowment fund of TPMS-US by a quarter and seemingly diverted money raised in the popes name away from Vatican-approved charities and works in Africa, Asia and Latin America. The loss is thus the latest financial headache for the Holy See, which for decades has been beset by episodes of loss-making investments, opaque accounting methods, porous budgets and conflicts of interest that have undermined its financial reputation. The Holy See is aware of the situation and is currently looking into the details of the events, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement to AP. According to publicly available tax returns and financial statements, the moneys transferred included $7 million in expense reimbursements, undefined contributions and support, from TPMS-US to Missio Corp. from 2019-2021. The bulk of the transfers is a $10.2 million investment in MISIF LLC, $7.5 million of which came from a TPMS-US endowment fund. That investment served as the sponsoring seed investment that persuaded the U.S. federal government's International Development Finance Corp., in 2021 to loan MISIF LLC $20 million to provide microloans to church-run agribusinesses and educational programs. Because the TPMS-US board approved the transfers, any litigation to get it back is implausible. But according to officials at TPMS-US, it remains unclear if the board was fully informed about the transfers and the Vaticans view of them, especially concerns expressed by the then-prefect of the Vaticans missionary office, Cardinal Fernando Filoni. The Rev. Robert Gahl, a moral theologian who runs a church administration and management program at the Catholic University of America, also said the evangelical thrust of TPMS-US donations which mostly come via an annual Mass collection each October for the Vaticans missionary activities differs from MISIFs more general development strategy of loans that must be repaid. How can donor intent be assured if the aims of the two are so different? he asked. Donor intent is defended in both civil and canon law, he added. Lloyd Mayer, a professor specializing in nonprofit law at Notre Dame Law School, said he didnt see any red flags in the transfers, but a few yellow flags. And the legal question for me is: has someone violated a legal duty here, or is this essentially an internal political dispute? Small strongly defended the transfers as consistent with both the mission of TPMS-US and his fiduciary duty to increase its funding, which he said had been steadily declining as donations dried up. He said he also tried crowdsourcing, where donors could see the direct outcome of their gifts, to raise money. He said donors were increasingly unwilling to just give to the Vatican via the typical structure, where Rome decides where donations are spent -- a reference to donor distrust of the opaque finances of the Holy See in general and the Vaticans missionary office in particular. A lot of it goes to bishops and nuncios with only a tiny fraction going to priests and sisters, Small said. Many millions of dollars of the US money help pay the expenses of operating nunciatures in mission countries, which seems anomalous with the messages sent to the faithful on Mission Sunday each year. Small said he developed Missio Corp., and its public-facing Missio Invest website, because he wanted to apply the principles of impact investing to the needs of the church in mission territory. It was an idea that had some support in the Vatican, which hosted three impact investing conferences in 2014, 2016 and 2018. The ultimate goal was to create a social impact fund that could provide low-interest loans to church-run enterprises in Africa so as to create a sustainable source income for the church and, presumably, make them less dependent on foreign annual donations which had shown themselves to be increasingly precarious, Small said. Small said the board of TPMS-US was informed of all developments and approved all the transfers, and that he made at least annual presentations to the Vaticans missionary office. Robert Warren, a retired IRS criminal investigator who now teaches accounting at Radford University in Virginia, said the relationship between TPMS-US and Missio Corp., on its surface is problematic because Small headed both. Such interlocking relationships, he said, require extra scrutiny by auditors and management. I always tell my students: You have to determine whether there is an arms length transaction. If you have related parties, that means by definition you do not have an arms length transaction, he said. If one charity is providing the bulk of funding to keep a second charity going "you now have an interrelated party and all those transactions require extra scrutiny by the auditors and by management. After Smalls term ended in 2021, TPMS-US under the leadership of its new national director, Monsignor Kieran Harrington, hired a law firm to investigate. Small didnt respond to the lawyers questions. The independent analysis concluded that the TPMS board approved the funds transfers in a way consistent with their powers and the TPMS bylaws, TPMS-US told AP in a statement. Harrington subsequently replaced the board with more high-ranking officials and Vatican oversight. It includes the popes ambassador to the United States, Archbishop Christophe Pierre, along with other senior U.S. cardinals and archbishops, including Boston Cardinal Sean OMalley, who as head of the Vaticans child protection board, is now Smalls boss. The new board is working to evaluate the governance structures of TPMS and will soon recommend new ecclesiastical statutes and vote upon the civil corporation bylaws, TPMS-US told AP. TPMS-US asked for the $10.2 million investment in MISIF back, but Missio Corp., denied the request, according to the TPMS-US audited financial statement. Management of the organization is diligently working to redeem the investment, however there is no timeline and no guarantee of investment return, the statement says. TPMS-US now values the $10.2 million investment as a total loss. Small criticized the write-off as shortsighted, saying there were no grounds for such a decision based on the funds performance. Small said the board knew well the minimum 10-year commitment of the investment, and that regardless the MISIF investing model considers the economic impact on local communities as part of the return for investors. He said it was unfortunate that TPMS-US had such little confidence in the mission churchs ability to repay its loans. If we dont believe in our missionary colleagues, how will banks and other capital markets? he asked. However, even Smalls own auditors for two years running have said they were unable to verify MISIF's calculation of the fair value of its investment portfolio, which represents more than half of its assets. For both 2021 and 2022, the auditors declined to express an opinion on MISIF's financial statements. The fate of the Rome residence for nuns is now tied up in Italian bureaucracy and pandemic-related construction delays. The Vatican had purchased the building after TPMS-US sent $13 million from a fund it had established to support the education of religious sisters. The building has a rich history: During WWII, when it was owned by a Canadian order of nuns, it housed at least 80 Jews who were hiding from Romes Nazi occupiers, according to archival research published in the Vatican newspaper L'Osservatore Romano. When the Vatican in 2021 asked TPMS-US for more money to renovate the building, the education fund for religious sisters was empty. Small said the board, for a variety of reasons, had decided not to send the remaining $4.7 million to Rome but instead to his Missio Corp., to fund the training of sisters in Africa, which he said was consistent with its intended purpose. The Vatican is believed to have found other funding, but the Rome residence today stands empty, a chain lock around its front gate. The nuns studying at the Pontifical Urbaniana University live at a campus in Castel Gandolfo, a 90-minute commute away. They lose so much time traveling, said Sister Genowefa Kudlik, the Polish nun who runs the Castel Gandolfo campus. The property was bought some years back, I believe. But I dont think anything was done. Guest Santiago Cammi, left, from Argentina, talks with operations manager David Draffin outside one of the pods at Stay Open in Venice. Stay Open is a pod hotel for travelers and remote work communities in sustainably repurposed real estate. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) For the record: 10:52 a.m. May 31, 2023: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that Steve Shpilsky financed and developed the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills and the Hyatt Regency. Shpilsky financed, but did not develop, the Waldorf. He also financed and developed the LAX Hyatt House/Place, not the Hyatt Regency. The last time I slept in a bunk bed, I was 13 years old. (I was at summer camp, where a rude girl in my cabin informed everyone that people can fart in their sleep.) But when I arrived at Stay Open , I still found myself hoping to get a top bunk. To be clear, the sleeping quarters at Venice's beachfront pod hotel aren't exactly bunk beds rather, they're refrigerator-sized "pods" stacked atop one another, like giant Lego bricks. Opened in October 2021 in one of the old Snapchat offices , Stay Open is like a more grown-up version of a hostel, blending elements of Japans capsule hotels and more recent co-living experiments. The space is bright and modern, with massive windows, millennial pink bedding and a dangling disco ball that's framed by a prime view of Venice Beach. Stay Open pod hotel in Venice. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Steve Shpilsky, the CEO and co-founder of Stay Open, wants to help change the perception of the hostel, which he says is viewed as "kind of a bad word." "You poll the average American, 'What do you think of a hostel?' They're like, 'Oh, I'm gonna lose a kidney.' Horror movie. It's not a great first impression," he said. Shpilsky, 45, worked in traditional hospitality for years financing the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills and one of the Hyatts near LAX before he came up with the idea for Stay Open. Though hostels are already quite popular on other continents, the model hasn't changed much over the last century. "It's like taxi cabs before Uber came along," he said. For my recent stay, an app on my phone allowed me to unlock the door, which opened to a colorful, multistory loft. With 12 custom-made pods, three bathrooms (with hotel-style products), several desks and monitors, and a washer and dryer, the space has the vibe of a large Airbnb filled with strangers. On the first floor, there's a movie projector and a phone-booth-shaped office pod. Sebastian Solari, right, from Lima, Peru, and Pasha Makhrinsky, from Kyiv, Ukraine, recline in one of several sitting areas. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) The first floor is also where David Draffin, the hotels operations manager, lives. He was hired after booking a pod at Stay Open he started talking to Shpilsky about his experience working with hostel companies and the two found that they shared similar ideals. Aside from being more affordable than traditional hotels (pods cost around $100 per night, depending on availability), Draffin said Stay Open appeals to digital nomads who need to keep working while they travel. "I find, in my background in hostels, you look at a space and [it's about], How many people can we physically get in there and maximize the money? Whereas the approach here is, you've got to have enough living space to work space to social space," Draffin said. Heyishi Zhang, from Toronto, writes in her journal inside her pod. The ladders are for guest staying on the second tier of the pods. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) As I walked through the second floor, I got a glimpse into where Id be sleeping that night. I had the top pod closest to the window, with an absolutely ridiculous view of the ocean. With a sliding door and a curtain, the pods can be closed for privacy (but not locked, which is probably for the best in terms of claustrophobia). My pod had two small shelves, a white-noise machine and fan, and several outlets on both ends of the bed. Shpilsky said he wanted the pods to feel like your own little space, upgrading standard bunk beds into pods with mattresses from Silk & Snow, dimmable lighting and even crown molding. "What are the pain points of a hostel? [Terrible] mattress and bunk beds, and it feels like prison," he said. Pod hotels are good, but then you look at a lot of the concepts and it feels like you're sleeping in a morgue. There's no openness and social element." Dominick Wuethrich, visiting from Michigan, enjoys one of the living room areas. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Shpilsky first contemplated the idea before the pandemic, but as work culture has shifted away from physical offices , he found a convenient silver lining. Instead of investing all the time and money to build new structures, he could take over empty spaces. "There's basically going to be the size of Manhattan in terms of available office buildings in the U.S. over the next five years," Shpilsky said. "Why do you have to build something from the ground up if there's a great building and a good location that could be used for something better than it was intended for?" Sebastian Solari, 24, was working at one of the desks when I arrived. He'd been traveling from his home in Lima, Peru, for the last year and a half, staying in traditional hostels where it's common to have anywhere from four to 24 people sleeping in each room. Many hostels use standard metal bunk beds, which means there's little to no privacy beyond the communal bathrooms that travelers share. "Staying at bigger hostels is nice because you are able to meet people, but sometimes after a while, it's just too much," Solari said. "You're meeting people every day, they come and go, it's hard sometimes to focus. After traveling through South America, Solari found himself at Stay Open, saying it has a nice vibe and an interesting setup that gives him more privacy, work space and socialization than conventional hostels. "If I rented an Airbnb by myself, I'm going to be bored to death," he said. Dominick Wuethrich, visiting from Michigan, stands outside the bank of pods available for guests. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) In terms of expansion, Shpilsky is hoping to launch Stay Open locations in Santa Monica and San Diego in the near future. Though the Venice location has only 12 beds, hes hoping the next building, near Santa Monicas Third Street Promenade, will be much larger. "Our goal is to get our 100 beds up and running as quickly as possible," he said. "Because I think it's harder for us to go from the [12] beds we have here to 100 than it will be from going from 100 beds to 1,000." So far, he said that Stay Open has been running at 90% capacity. Shpilsky added the average age of its clientele is 33, and most of its guests are international travelers. "Essentially everyone that comes here is the same person," Draffin said. "They're at a certain age where they don't necessarily want to stay in a hostel dorm room. They don't want to pay for a hotel, they might want some communal vibes happening. But they do want their own space." After I toured the space and left to grab a slice of salad pizza from Abbot's Pizza Company , I decided to eat my dinner on the hotels rooftop to catch the sun setting over the ocean. Soon enough, Solari and Pasha Makhrinsky, from Kyiv, Ukraine, wandered upstairs to chat. Once it was dark, some guests began disappearing into their pods. As I moved my things into my pod, I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable and roomy it felt. With a twin mattress and enough room to sit up with no worry of hitting my head, I could understand the appeal. The view looking over the second floor of the hotel. The string installation is part of the decor, along with art on the walls. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Once quiet hours kicked in at 10 p.m., I found myself chatting in hushed tones on the mezzanine with Solari, Makhrinsky and Jasmine Dawes, a healer from Tynemouth, England, who had just returned to Stay Open after a trip to Mt. Shasta. Dawes said she enjoys staying at hostels since they often lead her to interesting people, and Stay Open felt more sophisticated than the average accommodation. "I think this is a really nice level-up to do that in a really beautiful way," she said. Throughout the night, as we refilled cups of tea and exchanged stories, it felt a bit like I was back at summer camp, swapping snacks and late-night stories with new friends from around the world. Solari told us about a day when several guests rented bikes to explore the Venice canals , and I thought about how lonely L.A. can feel when you first arrive. Will you be here tomorrow night? Dawes asked me at one point. Were going to make curry! By 1 a.m., when we all decided to shuffle off to bed, I realized I had forgotten a phone charger. Without skipping a beat, Dawes offered that I could borrow hers for the night. When I crawled into my pod, I decided to close the curtain but keep the door partially open, to allow some morning sunlight to wake me up. Perhaps Im just a heavy sleeper, but I snoozed peacefully through the night, unable to hear anyone else's snoring or late-night TikTok scrolling. As I packed up my things to head home, a small part of me wished I would be around to eat curry for dinner with the rest of the group the next day. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Police say the sounds of a crying baby led them to a woman lying dead on the floor of her apartment beside the body of a man who had apparently killed her before killing himself. According to a police department Facebook post, officers performing a welfare check just before noon on Saturday in Port St. Lucie, Florida, heard the infant crying, but no one answered and the doors were locked. Through a rear sliding glass window of the apartment, they could see the bodies of a man and woman on the floor, the statement said. After forcing their way through the front door, police found the baby unharmed in a crib. The man was the 25-year-old fiance of the victim and had stabbed her before killing himself, Sgt. John Dellacroce, the spokesperson for the Port St. Lucie Police Department, told HuffPost. The man had tried repeatedly to call a family member, Dellacroce said, placing the last call at 11:50 p.m. on Friday. Audio from a nearby video surveillance camera suggested that his fatal injuries occurred at approximately 12:47 a.m. The mans family member called 911 on Saturday morning after calling him back and being unable to reach him, Dellacroce said, which prompted the welfare check. The 10-month-old infant was left in her crib unharmed for approximately 11 hours until officers forced entry into the house, Dellacroce said. Amanda Hicks worked as a reading teacher at Dr. David L. Anderson Middle School in Martin County, Florida. Amanda Hicks worked as a reading teacher at Dr. David L. Anderson Middle School in Martin County, Florida. Darcia Borel, the principal of Dr. David L. Anderson Middle School, identified the victim as teacher Amanda Hicks in an email sent to school staff this weekend, writing that police had said Hicks was a victim of a homicide and that the infant was her daughter. It is with great sadness that we write to inform you about the tragic passing of one of our teachers, Ms. Amanda Hicks, Borel said in the email. The Port St. Lucie Police Department has confirmed that Ms. Hicks was the victim of a homicide. While words will never be enough to convey the shock and sadness this news has brought to our school family, it is more important than ever to come together to support one another through our grief journey. Additional information about memorials and opportunities for supporting Amandas beautiful little girl will be forthcoming, Borel said. Please remember to hug your loved ones a little tighter and keep Amandas family in your thoughts and hearts. Hicks taught reading to sixth- and seventh-grade students at the school and had worked in the district since 2019, Martin County School District spokesperson Jennifer DeShazo confirmed to HuffPost. There is an online fundraiser for Hicks celebration of life and to support her family. She was an amazing mother to a beautiful baby girl, she was a great sister, and was a beloved teacher and friend, wrote Mackenzie Casper, a friend of Hicks brother. She will be deeply missed and didnt deserve to leave this world so soon by someone elses hand. Amanda Hicks poses with her brother, Eric Hicks. Amanda Hicks poses with her brother, Eric Hicks. Authorities did not identify the man whose body was found with Hicks. They only said that it appeared he had killed her before killing himself and that the two were thought to be romantically involved. A neighbor of Hicks told TCPalm that she heard a very loud, screechy scream at about 11:30 p.m. on Friday, just 12 hours before Hicks body was found. That scream stays in my head, said the neighbor, Monica Ventura, who told the news outlet that Hicks had just moved into the apartment complex a few weeks earlier with a man whose name she did not know. She had such a big, beautiful smile, Hicks friend Raquel Magallon told WPBF News. She was always happy, She was just an angel. She definitely brightened my day every time I saw her. The school staff is in the initial stages of processing their grief, said DeShazo, the school district spokesperson. They hope to work with Ms. Hicks family in the future on plans the family is comfortable with that would benefit her very young little girl. The infant is now with a family member, police said. Need help? In the U.S., call 1-866-331-9474 or text loveis to 22522 for the National Dating Abuse Helpline. Need help? In the U.S., call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Subscribe to our true crime newsletter, Suspicious Circumstances, to get the biggest unsolved mysteries, white collar scandals and captivating cases delivered straight to your inbox every week. Sign up here. Related... Bernice Ringo wipes her eyes, Tuesday, March 28, 2023 in Detroit, as she looks at the site where her son was fatally shot while sitting in his car in 2019. Natalian was fatally shot while sitting in his car in 2019. After being denied victim compensation and overwhelmed with grief, Ringo spoke to the Michigan Legislature about the trauma of being told her son had caused his murder. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio) Vanessa Martinez was finishing preparations for her daughters second birthday in September 2021 when her ex-boyfriend broke into her Mesa, Arizona, condo and shot her in the head as she frantically tried to shield their three young children. Doctors had to remove a third of her skull, but Martinez survived. She left the hospital facing a fight for custody of her kids, who'd been placed in state care after the attack. She needed a new place to live after much of the house was damaged in a standoff between police and her shooter. Her 4-year-old son needed trauma counseling. Arizona has a state safety net local victim compensation programs for victims of violent attacks like Martinez. But she was denied help because she was behind on about $900 in court fines from unrelated incidents, including one dating back nearly a decade. Program officials told Martinez she could reapply if she got current with a payment plan, but every dollar she made was needed for things like finding a place to live, work scrubs for her home-care job, after-school day care and the list grows. Across the country, victims like Martinez are using their stories to advocate for changes to state victim compensation programs, where thousands of crime survivors turn for help with medical bills, relocation, funerals or other expenses. The programs disburse millions of dollars each year, but The Associated Press found racial inequities and other barriers in how claims are denied in many states. Crime survivors have organized rallies, testified at legislatures and met with dozens of lawmakers with much success. Legislatures in more than half of U.S. states have passed measures to improve their programs in recent years. The changes vary widely: A victim's criminal history is no longer an automatic disqualifier in Illinois. The time limit to apply for help was increased from three to seven years in California. In Michigan, the cap on aid will nearly double to $45,000 this year and more people like caretakers of victims will be eligible for survivor benefits. States have cut back on their denials to families based on the behavior of homicide victims and loosened requirements that crime victims must have cooperated with or reported the crime to police. In Ohio, denials are no longer automatic for crime victims who have felony convictions or for surviving family if a murder victim had drugs in their system. Those reasons were used to deny help for a handful of victims in the 2019 mass shooting at a Dayton bar where nine people were killed and 17 others were wounded. Dion Green was at the bar that night with his father, Derrick Fudge, who was killed. Green helped fight for the changes to Ohios program after being denied help because his father had an almost 10-year-old felony conviction. I told them that I miss my father everyday, but the survivors, the people left here, are the ones still moving through their pain, Green said. Changes have incrementally rolled through states over decades as more is learned about victimization. Mental health treatment wasnt a commonly covered expense when the programs started in the 1960s and 1970s, but now is widely covered. Pennsylvania passed a law to allow eligible victims access to counseling whether or not the program determined the victim contributed to their own victimization. Sometimes, however, change runs up against institutional inertia. Nevada doesn't require sexual assault victims to go to police as long as they report the crime to nurses or other health professionals. But a 2021 federal audit found 175 claims from those victims had been denied over a five-year period because of missing or incomplete police reports. Nevada retrained staff after the audit, and revised the denials notifications sent to victims. Program officials confirmed that as of early 2023, none of those denied claims had been reopened. They declined an interview request from the AP. The consensus has been that the potential re-traumatization to victims of sexual assault is too great of a risk in contacting victims regarding their claims, program spokeswoman, Karla Delgado wrote in an emailed response. In Ohio, Green recently helped a woman who had lost her childrens father to gun violence start the compensation process by contacting a county representative. The woman was initially turned away because the victim had a previous felony record. Green helped her inform the official of the 2021 law change. Its the awareness part. People inside and outside the program need to know, Green said. Christelle Perez sought an immediate attitude shift among staff when she took over as chief of the Illinois Crime Victims Compensation Bureau in May 2021. She wanted to stop decades of autopilot denials from holding up recently passed reforms. There was this culture of, How can we deny a claim? because thats what the staff were instructed to do, Perez said. I met with the staff and I told them that we are a service organization and it is our job to serve. A similar mission realignment happened when New Yorks program changed from a five-member board that made inconsistent and sometimes subjective decisions to a division where staff received uniform training on how to decide claims. Elizabeth Cronin took over as executive director of the division in 2013 a few years after the shift and has pushed to make sure the program operates equitably. My top priority was to identify marginalized communities, underserved communities and spend more time out in the community to find out what we arent seeing and why we arent seeing it, Cronin said. Lenore Anderson, president and co-founder of the Alliance for Safety and Justice, which organizes victims to advocate for criminal justice reforms, has pushed program administrators for years to shift their focus from eligibility requirements to victim needs. It feels so obvious that the very least we can do when someone is hurt by crime and violence is ask, What do you need? And the fact that that is completely counter to how these bureaucratic systems operate is shocking, she said. Anderson said she's seen signs of change at the federal level, where the Justice Department's U.S. Office for Victims of Crime provides state programs with matching dollars that are tied to some regulations and a set of suggested guidelines. In a 2021 memo to state programs, the office encouraged states to add exceptions to police cooperation requirements. Some victims advocates want the federal office to mandate changes to all programs as a condition for receiving federal funds to address the piecemeal map of state programs that dole out inconsistent decisions. The office is in the process of overhauling compensation guidelines for the first time since 2001, with an emphasis on equity and addressing programmatic barriers, according to an emailed statement from the department. But its unclear how much of that new guidance will be mandatory. Green, part of an advocates committee giving input on those changes, said hes pushed the agency not only to take down existing barriers but mandate that states increase public awareness of their compensation programs. At the state level, hundreds of advocacy organizations are working for reforms, and with more than 100,000 members, Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice is one of the largest. Bernice Tammi Ringo is one of those members. After a lifetime living around Detroit, Ringo had plans to move to Alabama with her 23-year-old son Natalian to get him away from the crime she had feared most of his life. Those plans were shattered in 2019, when Natalian was fatally shot while sitting in his parked car in an enclave of Detroit. Ringo applied for funeral and counseling aid. She was denied because the program said she could rely on life insurance instead. She appealed, and while the program overturned its initial decision, it denied her again, saying her son had committed misconduct related to his own murder. The state commission provided no details, Ringo said, and Highland Park police were little help. Overwhelmed with grief, Ringo, 64, later spoke before the Michigan Legislature about the trauma of being told her son had somehow caused his murder. They put me through more hell, she said of the program denial. I'm heavily involved because I couldn't leave and go to Alabama and take my son with me and... just start a new life. After she and other victims testified, Michigan lawmakers passed legislation, set to go into effect in August, that makes numerous changes, including increasing money available to victims, eliminating police reporting deadlines and increasing eligibility. Data are not available for the handful of states that passed recent sweeping reforms. But New Jersey, which overhauled its program rules in 2020, saw an immediate change. In 2018 and 2019, Black victims accounted for about 44% of applications but received nearly 60% of the denials, according to data obtained by the AP. After the overhaul, that disparity dwindled, and by 2021 it had disappeared. Martinez hopes that speaking at rallies supporting a bill that would fund a pilot trauma-recovery center in Arizona will lead to more people getting help. The model moves money to victims faster and has fewer restrictions, like those that disqualified Martinez. I didnt really get any time to heal even emotionally from what happened, Martinez said. "But I really feel like this is my lifes mission to get this changed. ___ Catalini reported from Trenton, New Jersey and Lauer reported from Philadelphia. ___ This is the second in an occasional Associated Press series examining crime victim compensation programs. Send confidential tips to ap.org/tips. The Associated Press receives support from the Public Welfare Foundation for reporting focused on criminal justice. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin's potential late entry into the 2024 field seems destined to fail from the start Gov. Glenn Youngkin of Virginia is reportedly reconsidering a 2024 presidential run. AP Photo/John C. Clark Gov. Glenn Youngkin of Virginia is reconsidering a 2024 presidential run, per a recent Axios report. But such a decision would be rife with peril, with Youngkin far down the pack of GOP contenders. Youngkin also faces a tighter window to seek the presidency as he can't run for reelection in 2025. After Glenn Youngkin was inaugurated as Virginia's 74th governor last year, he quickly became a potential dark-horse 2024 Republican presidential contender largely among the conservatives and moderates within the party weary of another candidacy from former President Donald Trump. Youngkin, buoyed by his 2021 victory over former Democratic Gov. Terry McAuliffe in a state that in 2020 backed President Joe Biden by a 10-point margin, has been touted as a candidate who could appeal to both economic conservatives and independents who had moved away from the GOP during the Trump era. But Trump who remains hugely popular among the Republican base was always likely to avenge his 2020 defeat. And Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who just jumped into the GOP race last week, has long been seen as Trump's top rival for the nomination. In recent weeks, though, DeSantis' stock has faltered among voters leery of him backing a new Florida six-week abortion ban and his continued battles with the Walt Disney Company rooted in their opposition to the state's "Don't Say Gay" law efforts that many feel could hurt the GOP further with swing voters. Enter Youngkin, who managed to flip a Democratic-leaning state while performing strongly with the sort of conservatives who any Republican would need to capture the nomination. Axios last week reported that Youngkin was reconsidering a 2024 presidential run after having seemingly shut the door on a bid in April. Some in the GOP might say that the governor could save the party in the suburbs next year. But a Youngkin presidential campaign would have a hard time getting off the ground, due to Trump's enduring influence in the party, DeSantis' amplified focus on hot-button cultural issues, and the unique circumstances that tend to hold back Virginia governors from seeking national office. Former President Donald Trump speaks to supporters at his rally in Waco, Texas, on March 25, 2023. AP Photo/Evan Vucci Trump remains the GOP juggernaut Trump can write one controversial post on Truth Social and get more publicity than a sitting governor presiding over millions of people. Youngkin, who is barred from running for reelection in 2025 under Virginia law, surely recognizes this dynamic. As the governor focuses on trying to win state legislative seats this year, Trump is campaigning throughout the country, with the former president's political standing having solidified after he was indicted by the Manhattan District Attorney's office over his involvement in a hush-money payment made to the adult film actress Stormy Daniels. Where Republican presidential polls earlier this year had DeSantis lapping on Trump's once-robust national leads, the former president has reclaimed his dominant position in the GOP race. As of May 31, the GOP polling average on FiveThirtyEight had Trump ahead of DeSantis 54.1%-20.7%, with former Gov. Nikki Haley of South Carolina at 4.6% support, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina at 1.9% support, and likely contender and former Vice President Mike Pence earning 5.4% support. And the Trump campaign has been making a disciplined and concerted effort to boost the former president in the early nominating states of Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina as well as in delegate-rich Texas. If Youngkin does enter the GOP race, potentially after the Virginia legislative races this fall, he would have to work to catch up with the leading candidates in a matter of weeks, an incredibly tall order for someone without a national Rolodex and lower name recognition among base voters in key states. Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida at a news conference in Miami, Fla., on January 26, 2023. AP Photo/Marta Lavandier GOP voters want a conservative push on social issues Republicans in conservative-heavy states across the country have sought to fall in line on a range of high-profile issues, including abortion, LGBTQ rights, book banning, immigration, and the teaching of race in schools. DeSantis, who has staked his political brand in signing into law a wave of conservative legislation as part of what he has said is reflective of Florida's push for "freedom," has dug on in his clashes with Disney, embraced policies that target the transgender community, pushed to reshape the framework of a pilot AP African American Studies course set to be offered in select schools across the country, and flew migrants to Martha's Vineyard in an attempt to hit back at Democrats over border control. The Florida governor used his political capital last year to help install allies in school board positions across the state, which has put them in the position to affect the educational direction of millions of students. Youngkin has not been shy about embracing positions on transgender rights and the discussion of race in public education that run contrary to the ideologies of previous governors including McAuliffe and Ralph Northam. The governor campaigned aggressively against critical race theory during his 2021 campaign, despite the discipline generally being taught only at the collegiate level. He has pushed to reshape transgender policies in schools, in a move that was widely decried by many advocates and Democratic lawmakers. These issues might would hold resonance in a GOP primary, but any attempt by Youngkin to lean into these issues would blunt his message as a more amendable candidate to swing voters, as a push to "out-DeSantis" DeSantis would almost certainly fall flat. Virginia House Speaker Todd Gilbert, left, gavels to order the special session of the Virginia General Assembly in Richmond, Va., on September 7, 2022. All 140 seats in the legislature are up for grabs in the November 2023 elections. AP Photo/Steve Helber, File Virginia's political cycle creates major obstacles Governors of the Commonwealth, who were elected in non-presidential years and are restrained by their inability to seek consecutive gubernatorial terms, have to start defining their political legacies as soon as they arrive at the Governor's Mansion in Richmond. This year, Youngkin is seeking to maintain control of the Virginia House of Delegates, which has a slim 50-46 GOP majority (with four vacancies), while also working to flip the Virginia Senate, which has a 22-18 Democratic majority. The seats in both chambers are all up for grabs this year, under new lines that were drawn after the 2020 Census. Democrats have made huge inroads in the state's urban and suburban corridors in recent years, with Republicans still dominant in rural areas. But the key to control of both chambers will lie in the suburbs, where Trump remains unpopular and where Youngkin performed well enough in 2021 to defeat McAuliffe by two points statewide. However, the political landscape has changed dramatically over the past two years, with abortion becoming a more potent issue. While the Democratic-led state Senate served as a bulwark against Youngkin's desire to implement a 15-week abortion ban, neither party has given up on the issue despite it helping boost Democratic candidates across the country last year. J. Miles Coleman, the associate editor of Sabato's Crystal Ball at the University of Virginia Center for Politics, told Insider that abortion has the potential to reshape how control of the legislature will be decided this November. "Youngkin's win in 2021 and the mini-wave that helped the Republicans flip the state House was before Roe v. Wade was overturned," Coleman said. "There was a Texas abortion case that was being heard in the Supreme Court earlier, but even then it was still theoretical." "But in almost every special election since the Roe v. Wade was overturned, Democrats have really been overperforming expectations," he added, pointing to the January special election win of now-state Sen. Aaron Rouse of Virginia Beach and the robust February special election victory of now-Rep. Jennifer McClellan of Richmond. Read the original article on Business Insider Three Republican governors ordered National Guard troops to the southern border this week to help interdict drug and human trafficking at Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts request. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin and South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster announced their decisions to send troops to the Texas-Mexico border on Wednesday, while South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem announced her move on Thursday. They join Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in doing so, who issued his own order last month. In his statement Wednesday, Youngkin announced that he had signed an executive directive to send 100 National Guard troops to support Abbotts Operation Lone Star. In March, Abbott asked other Republican governors to send troops to the southern border through an Emergency Management Assistance Compact, which allows states to send resources in times of disaster or crisis. Youngkin cited the increase in the flow of illegal drugs and human trafficking on the border, which he said is devastating Virginia families and communities. The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state, Youngkin said. As leadership solutions at the federal level fall short, states are answering the call to secure our southern border, reduce the flow of fentanyl, combat human trafficking and address the humanitarian crisis. Susan Swecker, the chairwoman of the Democratic Party of Virginia, slammed Youngkin's decision. "In his obsessive quest to tee himself up for a presidential campaign, Youngkin is continuing to ignore the basic needs of Virginians to bolster his standing with the MAGA base, Swecker wrote in a statement. McMaster said the move is necessary for the "safety and security of South Carolinians." At the request of Texas Governor Greg Abbott, I have directed the deployment of South Carolina National Guard troops to Texas to help hold the line on the Southern border," McMaster said in a statement. The safety and security of South Carolinians require that we stop the drug cartels, criminals, and terrorists from entering our country to peddle their poison. Details about how many troops South Carolina will deploy will be finalized in the coming weeks, with the goal of deployment by July 1, McMaster's office said. By Thursday afternoon, Noem had joined in, announcing she was deploying "at least 50" South Dakota National Guard troops to the southern border later this summer. The border crisis is growing worse under President Bidens willful inaction. Across the country, crime rates, drug overdoses, and human trafficking have all skyrocketed because our border remains a warzone, she said in a statement. Youngkin and McMaster said Abbott briefed them last week. Given the intensive resource demands on Texas, the dangers posed by the fentanyl crisis, and impact of the border crisis on criminal activity to the Commonwealth, Virginia will do its part to assist the State of Texas efforts with the coordinated deployment of Virginia National Guard soldiers to assist in key aspects of their mission, Youngkin said. Abbotts office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. DeSantis announced in mid-May that he is sending more than 1,100 state law enforcement agents and National Guard members to Texas border with Mexico. The number is a tenfold increase compared to a similar move in 2021. DeSantis office said at the time that personnel would be at the border for 30 days, with possible extensions. Abbott and DeSantis have blamed President Joe Biden for the influx of migrants at the southern border. DeSantis signed a sweeping immigration overhaul bill a day before the Biden administration ended Title 42, a Covid restriction that expedited the expulsion of migrants. Meanwhile, Abbott has bused migrants to Democratic cities, and he told Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot in a letter last month that the move is necessary until Biden secures the border to stop the inflow of mass migration. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Visit Florida staff members have crafted a tourism-marketing plan intended to combat increased competition from states that in the past few years imposed tougher COVID-19 restrictions. With restrictions now lifted nationally and eased internationally, and tourism dollars up in Floridas proposed budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, the state tourism agencys Marketing Council rolled out plans Tuesday that, in part, would move up the start of winter and families advertising campaigns by a couple of months. We have moved these up to launch in October and March respectively, which we feel will position us to enter the travel discussion earlier in the decision process and maximize our traveler visitation, Brett Laiken, Visit Floridas vice president of marketing, said during a conference call. The marketing efforts will continue to highlight beaches and theme parks, but also regional and outdoor activities. Laiken said the agency focused on Floridas recovery from COVID-19 last year, and this year we really want to celebrate the record numbers in the face of increasing competition. The proposed state budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, which will start July 1, includes $80 million for Visit Florida, a $30 million increase from the current fiscal year. Gov. Ron DeSantis still needs to sign off on the budget. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< The marketing plans must go before the Visit Florida Board of Directors, which will meet Tuesday in St. Augustine. Participants in this weeks meeting did not mention recent travel advisories that advocacy groups have issued for Black, Hispanic, and LGBTQ+ people as a protest against policies backed by DeSantis and the Republican-controlled Legislature. The meeting also did not include a discussion of DeSantis clash with The Walt Disney Company over 2022 legislation that restricts instruction about sexual orientation and gender identity in schools. Florida drew an estimated 137.6 million visitors in 2022, a 12.9% increase from 2021 and 5% more than in 2019, the last full year of travel before the COVID-19 pandemic. Most of Floridas visitors continue to come from other states, with overseas travel to Florida last year 28% below the 2019 total. The higher Florida tourism estimates come as Visit California also touts spending by tourists, which is expected to hit $154.4 billion this calendar year. The California tourism agency has received $95 million for marketing from lawmakers. According to the U.S. Travel Association, travel spending in 2022 hit $122.9 billion in Florida, 9% higher than in 2019. New York hit $100 billion in travel spending last year, 12% higher than in 2019. New York City alone had 54 million visitors in 2022, below its 66.6 million visitors in 2019. New York City Tourism + Conventions, the citys tourism agency, anticipates reaching 63.3 million tourists this year. Floridas overall marketing plan will remain heavily focused on U.S. travelers, who have bolstered the states tourism numbers since businesses started to reopen in 2020 after a pandemic shutdown. Laiken said the plan will be more regionally focused than a one-size-fits-all approach. Our storytelling will expand awareness of vacation possibilities in Florida, Laiken said. We will reinforce the beaches and theme parks, while encouraging travelers to experience the limitless adventures that await and allow them to see new Florida with each return visit, including adventures such as hiking, biking and kayaking. And additionally, we will continue to recognize Florida as a top origin market and foster greater in-state travel. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Visit Orlando estimated the Central Florida community drew 74 million visitors last year, most from other parts of Florida. Laiken said a significant amount of Floridas tourism-marketing dollars will be directed toward attracting international travelers, who in the past on average stayed for longer periods and spent more money. But Laiken said no hard budget figures have been put down for international marketing. Jacob Pewitt Yancey, Visit Floridas director of consumer insights and analytics, said the state has seen a slight increase in younger families traveling to Florida since the start of the pandemic, and average trips by people from other states have been extended. Throughout 2021 and into 2022, domestic visitors behaved more like international visitors than they typically do, Pewitt Yancey said. They increased their average length of stay by a day or two. And they increased the amount of money that they were spending per person per day by up to $100, compared to what it had been prior to the pandemic. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. The Vodafone Ukraine operator has restored the ability to make calls and send SMS At 4.33 a.m. today, I received a confirmation call from the technical directorate stating that everything is working fine across the country (I personally requested the call despite the late hour), wrote Victoria Ruban, PR director of Vodafone Ukraine, on Facebook. However, this is the best wake-up call in recent days, allowing me to go back to sleep with peace of mind. Read also: Digital Transformation Ministry conducting survey on national roaming Difficulties with voice communication for Vodafone Ukraine subscribers arose in the evening of May 30, affecting several regions including Kyiv and several oblasts. Data transmission, however, remained operational. Vodafone Ukraine informed its subscribers on the evening of May 30 through Telegram that there were limitations on calls and SMS messages within the companys network. Customers were advised to use messaging apps, if needed. Earlier, it was reported that Ukraines Antimonopoly Committee approved Vodafone Ukraines acquisition of a stake in a major home internet operator, Freenet. Read also: Mobile operators agree on continued affordable roaming for Ukrainians in EU Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine A pair of puppies wait to be fed at the North Central Animal Shelter, one of several L.A. Animal Services facilities. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) A Los Angeles jury on Tuesday awarded $6.8 million to an animal shelter volunteer whose arm was nearly ripped off in a dog attack, finding the city liable for gross negligence. Kelly Kaneko, 36, still has nerve and bone damage in her right arm, where the dog latched onto her for over five minutes in October 2019, forcing her to drag herself and the dog around the facility to find help. She said she had been motivated to volunteer at a Los Angeles Animal Services facility in Lincoln Heights after hearing that dogs are often ignored by limited staff in shelters run by the troubled city agency, where volunteers are sorely needed. "I love animals with all my heart," Kaneko said through sobs in an interview Wednesday. "I felt so bad that this was their situation." On the day of the attack, Kaneko was asked to move a 100-pound German shepherd mix named Jaxx from a kennel to another part of the facility where a prospective family could meet him, according to her lawsuit. Shelter staff let Kaneko know that Jaxx was "grumpy," but there were no other formal warnings about his history. Kaneko did not know that Jaxx had bitten his previous owner, that he was surrendered back to the city facility, or that the previous owner told the shelter Jaxx seemed aggressive and was a threat, according to Kaneko's attorney Ivan Puchalt. A former director with the Animal Services department testified at trial that the dog's status as aggressive should have been noted on his kennel, Puchalt said. "That was an open question at trial as to whether they did or didn't put a yellow mark on Jaxx's [record] card," Puchalt said. "There definitely wasn't one on the day of the incident." Kaneko, an untrained volunteer, brought Jaxx back to his kennel alone. After she removed his leash, he attacked her and latched onto her arm, refusing to let go. She called for help and was unable to break free as the dog's jaws vice-gripped onto her arm. After several minutes, Kaneko dragged herself and the dog about 250 feet from the kennels to the shelter's main facility. There was one employee on the premises, but that worker was wearing earplugs at the recommendation of the shelter operators because previous employees had complained of losing their hearing, Puchalt said. Because that person could not see Kaneko, she was forced to drag herself and Jaxx to the front of the facility, where eventually the employee spotted them and came to Kaneko's aid. An ambulance took Kaneko to L.A. County-USC Medical Center, where she underwent multiple surgeries and skin grafts. She spent nearly 40 days in the intensive care unit, and although she was told she would likely lose her hand, it was saved but remains severely damaged, according to her attorney. "When she arrived at the ER, her hand was officially dead," Puchalt said. "Her hand gets less blood now than it used to. It always feels cold. And it's often a different color. She has a very faint pulse and it's a very serious injury despite the amazing work they did. She hasn't been made whole." Kaneko added, "There's lots of things I won't be able to do for life." Jaxx was euthanized a few months after the attack, Puchalt said. Kaneko hopes the verdict will lead to lasting changes with the city's policies, which the jury found put her in harm's way. "This is a victory for a lot of volunteers as well because there will be more who are protected," Kaneko said. A spokesperson for the city attorney's office declined to comment on the jury's verdict. The Times has chronicled worsening conditions at L.A. city animal shelters, including inadequate care for dogs and small animals. At the same time, the department lacks volunteers who are trained to handle larger dogs, so those dogs are caged for longer periods without walks. The confinement puts stress on dogs, making it harder for them to be adopted and putting them on a track to be euthanized. Two recent reports one by former City Councilmember Paul Koretz, the other from City Controller Kenneth Mejia detailed Animal Services various problems, including a lack of employees, leading the department to request a major funding increase to hire more staff. Times staff writer Dakota Smith contributed to this report. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. KABUL, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Families of victims of a deadly raid conducted by Australian forces in Afghanistan's southern Uruzgan province have called for compensation, local Tolonews TV reported Wednesday. At least 60 people, including women and children, have been reportedly killed and 59 others wounded in the night raid on July 5, 2010 in Kakrag village of the provincial capital Tarinkot City. "The aircraft landed over there. They would shoot anyone who would try to escape. Nothing was visible. In the morning, we say many were martyred. There was no grave left without a corpse," Wali Mohammad, a relative of the victims, told the Tolonews in an interview. The residents, in their interview with the TV, demanded the International Criminal Court to ensure their rights to justice. "We have this demand that they should be brought to justice because we have been oppressed. There was no Daesh and no Taliban and no outsiders. They would shoot at anyone who would flee from the area during the attack," another relative of the victims Noor Mohammad told the TV. "Twenty members of my family were martyred or wounded in the raid," said Mohammadullah, 38, another local resident and relative of the victims. "Our people want the prosecution of these people. If the foreigners consider themselves the real defenders of human rights, then this is the wish of the Afghans. The Afghans were human and were oppressed," he said. On Nov. 27, 2022, an independent source reportedly said there was evidence that scores of unarmed Afghans were killed by Australian soldiers. In March, a former member of the Australian military was charged with a war crime over the killing of an Afghan civilian. Angus Campbell, head of the Australian Defence Force, has declined to give details about how many soldiers could face criminal prosecution over alleged war crimes in Afghanistan, but warned of "uncomfortable days." A 1-year-old child has died in Washington state after being left in a hot car for nine hours outside a hospital, reports say. The incident happened on May 24 after the childs foster mother arrived for work at the MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup, became distracted and forgot that the infant was in the vehicle, KING 5 reports, citing the Puyallup Police Department. "This is a tragic incident and our hearts go out to the family and everyone who was affected by this," Puyallup Police Department Captain Don Bourbon told the station, "And just want the public to know that during this time of year when it starts getting warmer, just be mindful of temperatures that are growing and safety of our families." Bourbon added that the mother rushed the child inside the hospital after finding it in the car later that day, in an attempt to save the infant. FLORIDA BABY DIES AFTER BEING LEFT FOR HOURS IN HOT CAR WHILE PARENTS ATTENDED CHURCH, POLICE SAY Investigators told Fox 13 that the child was in the vehicle for nine hours. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP The station reports that the childs mother is a social worker at the hospital, and although temperatures were in the low 70s that day, the car heated up to more than 100 degrees. "A tragic incident took place at the Good Samaritan campus Wednesday involving an employee and their child," a hospital spokesperson told KING 5. "This incident also impacted a number of our other team members. MultiCare has offered a number of paths for support for our employees. We extend our condolences to everyone involved." Puyallup Police spokesman Ryan Portmann also told The Olympian newspaper that the incident involving the 47-year-old mother and the child was a "terrible, terrible situation" that unfolded on "a warm day." The death is one of six involving children found in hot cars this year, all of which were 4 years old or younger. GEORGIA JUDGE DISMISSES MURDER, CHILD CRUELTY CHARGES IN TODDLERS HOT CAR DEATH On Sunday, a baby girl died in Palm Bay, Florida, after her parents left her in a hot car while they attended church service, according to police. The Palm Bay Police Department said officers responded to the 6100 block of Babcock Street at 1 p.m. Sunday after an 11-month-old infant was found unresponsive inside a car, Fox 35 reported. The infant was left inside the vehicle for about three hours, police said. She was transported to the Palm Bay Community Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The incident remains under investigation, police said. The child's parents have not been charged. KidsandCars.org, a website that offers information, resources, and preventative measures about hot car deaths, says deaths of this nature also have occurred this year involving children in Texas and Alabama. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says cars can become hot very quickly, with temperatures sometimes rising nearly 20 degrees in just minutes. The agency said leaving a window open or cracked is insufficient. Fox News Landon Mion contributed to this report. Waterfront homes, condos, restaurants and hotel planned in Pasco. Work about to start The first two apartment buildings will begin taking shape at Pascos Osprey Pointe as soon as this summer. JMS Development, led by Meredith and James Sexton, has applied for permits for the first phase of a $450 million package of projects that will bring nearly 1,000 homes, commercial businesses, a hotel, marketplace and amphitheater to east Pasco. Work on the project, called Osprey Place Marketplace, could begin as early as this summer, but certainly by the end of the year, said James Sexton. The first two apartment buildings will bring a combined 32 units, all with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two parking spots in an underground parking garage. The three-bedroom configuration reflects demand for larger units. If they dont lease, JMS will consider selling them as condominiums. Osprey Pointe is a 55-acre low-bank waterfront property at the Port of Pasco, at East Ainsworth and South Oregon avenues. The port chose JMS to develop the empty acres around its headquarters in early 2020, after its 2018 development agreement with Eaty Gourmet fizzled. The COVID-19 pandemic slowed progress and JMS revised its plans a dozen times. Along the way, the city adapted three dozen codes to reflect the ambitious plan. Now, the port and the Sextons say, the oft-delayed project is truly approaching the starting line. Last week, the ports elected commission voted to extend the agreement until July while the two sides hammer out final details. Randy Hayden, executive director, confirmed theres good progress. The Sextons confirm theyve applied for building permits, including environmental review, and are on the cusp of raising money from investors. James Sexton, president of JMS Development, and his wife, Meredith, say 2023 is the year Osprey Pointe Marketplace will begin taking shape in Pasco. Project funding JMS has applied for building permits for the first phase and submitted the project for review under the Washington State Environmental Protection Act or SEPA. They aim to raise up to $97 million through a tax advantaged fund, Osprey Pointe OZ Holdings II LLC. The project is in Pascos Opportunity Zone, a federal designation that rewards private investors with tax breaks. Most of east Pasco is in that zone. The minimum investment will be $50,000. The Sextons, who are veteran developers, said they never considered stepping away or pivoting to projects with shorter time frames. They estimate theyve spent $2 million to bring the vision this far and will use conventional bank loans, as well as investor dollars. You only get one time to do something this big, James Sexton said. A proposed development at the Port of Pascos Osprey Pointe will include housing, restaurants, hotel and more. Applying for building permits, seeking review under SEPA and raising money all signal significant progress toward physical construction. Thursday, June 1, is the deadline to comment on potential environmental impacts. The citys SEPA review office will issue a decision about what if any steps are required to mitigate them after the deadline passes. James Sexton, a lifelong Tri-Citian, and Meredith Sexton of Prosser are longtime fans of Pascos east side and are eager to see it claim its place as a thriving destination. East Pasco is Pasco, James Sexton told the Herald. Land deal JMS will buy the land from the port in parcels as it proceeds through the development phases. It could take up to 10 years, though the couple hope strong interest will speed up development. When fully built, Osprey Pointe will have more than 1.5 million square feet of commercial and residential space. That includes 986 homes, including 256 rentals. The Port of Pascos Osprey Pointe Business and Technology Park is near the Heritage Industrial Center, Big Pasco Industrial Center and the Oregon Avenue light industrial corridor on East Ainsworth Street at Oregon Avenue. The rentals include a 220-unit high-rise apartment for those 55-and-over. All but one of the multistory buildings will have ground-level retail space, including restaurants. The Sextons said they are finalizing an agreement with a hotel operator for a seven-story hotel with 350 rooms and a rooftop bar. Nearby, Osprey Pointe Market will have ample performance space, including an indoor venue that will seat 6,000 and an outdoor amphitheater that will seat 35,000 on 10 acres. Event parking will be off site, with buses and possibly water taxis ferrying guests to and from the property. Meredith Sexton dreams of securing the Foo Fighters as the opening act. The bands bassist is a Hanford High grad and she is asking for help making a connection on the projects Facebook Page. I just need someone to tell them of my plans tho, she said. The hotel and concert venues will be built in future phases. Residential and retail construction will come first. 3 beds and 2 baths The first phase will bring water and sewer lines to the property and the two, four-story apartment buildings, which will have street-level space for retailers and restaurants. Pasco Burger Company and Wild Olives Charcuterie Kingdom have agreed to lease two of the commercial spaces. Pasco Burger Co. recently debuted at Pasco Specialty Kitchen. The next three buildings will be eight-story buildings with a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom condominiums, priced starting at $150,000. The first phase includes building the first of 70 detached homes priced at $250,000-$350,000, which Sexton told the port will be the lowest price per square foot in the Tri-Cities. Future-proofing The entire property will be governed and maintained by a home owners association, including the detached homes. The HOA will own the land and all residents and property owners and tenants, including businesses, will not only pay dues, but be subject to design standards no matter how often individual homes are sold. Preserving the vision in the future is a priority for the ports elected officials, though it acknowledges that at some point, it loses control of the property it currently owns. The Sextons intend to retain ownership of the commercial properties, which they will place in a trust for future generations. Development will follow a north-south zigzag pattern, snaking between Ainsworth Avenue and the shoreline. The approach ensures that once the residential units are complete on the west, they will be isolated from active construction to the east. The primary roads will run north-south at South Maitland, Oregon (aka Osprey Pointe Avenue) and east-west in a rough grid, according to plans in the SEPA file.. Follow Osprey Pointe Marketplace on Facebook, facebook.com/opmarketplace Sign Up: Boom Town Tri-Cities Stay up to date on Tri-Cities growth and development with our weekly business newsletter. Get the latest on restaurant and business openings and closings, plus the regions top housing and employment news. Click here to sign up. In your inbox every Wednesday. Buckeye police Keith Armstrong, 65, a West Valley music teacher, was arrested at his home on May 25 on charges of having searched and downloaded child pornography multiple times. According to court documents, a search warrant was served at Armstrong's home after Buckeye police had reviewed multiple tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children since Oct. 19, 2022. Those tips produced 58 images, all of which were flagged as child porn, and provided a unique IPV6 IP address, which was traced back to Armstrong, court documents said. Court documents state that in an interview after Armstrong was read his Miranda rights, he told investigators he had been struggling after a bout with COVID-19 and turned to pornographic material. Armstrong began looking at adult content but then began "looking for younger," according to court records. Armstrong told investigators that the material was on a drive inside the home near the tablet he used for searching and downloading, court records state. Armstrong said he never sexually touched his family or anyone else, according to court documents. Armstrong was ultimately booked into jail and charged with 10 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. The Arizona Republic obtained a statement Legacy Traditional Schools sent to parents notifying them of Armstrong's arrest. "Per school policy, the teacher has been placed on unpaid administrative leave and cannot access school grounds while the investigation is ongoing," the statement reads. "Police have informed us they have no indication that Legacy students have been harmed or involved in any way." The school added that it runs a criminal background check on all of its applicants and would work with law enforcement throughout the investigation. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Buckeye police arrest Surprise music teacher on child porn charges EU winemakers will need to reveal their ingredients from December, but can use QR codes stuck to the bottle European wines are finally being forced to reveal their ingredients to customers, but only on a website -- not on the bottle. Environmental campaigners are unimpressed. Wine can contain a wide array of additives to control taste, strength and appearance: sulfur, sugar, egg white, dried fish bladders, enzymes from a pig or cow pancreas, and a range of chemical compounds. While most of the food and drink sector has been forced to print ingredients and nutritional information on packaging for decades, the alcohol sector has long had a special exemption. In 2017, the European Commission concluded there was no "objective grounds" for this exception, and new rules -- which come into force on December 8 -- require wines to reveal their contents. But there is a twist. The wine industry was allowed to come up with their own method of doing so -- and it decided to give vineyards the option of using QR codes that link to a website, thus keeping the ingredients off the bottles. An activist group, the Transparency for Organic World Association (TOWA), said this is unworkable. "Can you really imagine getting out your smartphone in the supermarket and scanning several QR codes to compare the additives in wines, and remembering them all to make your choice?" said Olivier Paul-Morandini of TOWA. The wine industry claims that it cannot be treated like other foodstuffs. "Wine does not follow a recipe. The grape evolves in function of the sun, of climatic conditions... the ingredients are not the same from one harvest to another," said Ignacio Sanchez Recarte, of the Comite Europeen des Entreprises Vins (CEEV) , which represents the industry in Brussels. The CEEV said digital labelling is the only realistic way to get all the EU's winemakers onboard (there were 2.2 million in 2020, according to Eurostat). It also means the ingredients are automatically translated into all EU languages. "The Commission understood the need to provide a level of flexibility that will allow companies to communicate this information in a way that will not disrupt the way we trade," said Recarte. The CEEV also filed a complaint this month to the European Commission over Irish plans to put health warnings on alcoholic drinks. - 'List the consequences' - For TOWA, e-labels show a lack of commitment to the greening of agriculture which the EU claims is a priority. Organic and natural winemakers say that if a wine needs a QR code rather than a label, it is probably best avoided. "An organic winemaker who puts very few additional things into their wine can make a label for the bottle, while a conventional winemaker would need a dictionary, so clearly that's why a QR code is necessary," said Julien Guillot, a well-known natural winemaker in Burgundy. QR codes and e-labels are typical of a system that still greatly benefits conventional farmers using pesticides and chemical fertilisers, who receive the overwhelming majority of the EU Common Agricultural Policy subsidies, according to TOWA. "We don't need just a list of ingredients. We should have a list of all the consequences of conventional farming and how much they cost," said Paul-Morandini. "The pollution of soil, water, health and environment all has a price that is paid by consumers and society." er/fg/mca As the debt deal reached between President Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy heads to Congress this week to face votes in the House and Senate, the spotlight has shifted to which lawmakers plan to support it and whether there is enough of that support to get it across the finish line. Already, members of the House Freedom Caucus, the most right-leaning Republican faction in the House, have expressed their desire to see the bill fail, while others, such as Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., have expressed their disapproval over specific aspects of the deal, like defense spending. Most members from both parties have kept their views on the bill quiet, but one group is being seen as pivotal to whether it ultimately ends up back on Biden's desk, or if the nation defaults on its debt for the first time in history: moderates. Those down the middle votes from Democrats and Republicans not necessarily known for toeing their respective party lines could be the only chance for the bill to reach the necessary simple-majority for it to pass. NANCY MACE BLASTS GOP FOR GETTING FLEECED ON DEBT DEAL BY A PRESIDENT WHO CANT FIND HIS PANTS' President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. "This deal is good for the country in that it prevents a default and subsequent financial meltdown, while also limiting spending," Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, said in a statement posted on social media Monday. "While I would have preferred to see an agreement that also addressed entitlements, this represents a good-faith bipartisan compromise." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., who helped broker the agreement, all but guaranteed his support for the legislation by touting its inclusion of a provision fast-tracking the approval of a natural gas pipeline in his home state, the Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP). "I am pleased Speaker McCarthy and his leadership team see the tremendous value in completing the MVP to increase domestic energy production and drive down costs across America and especially in West Virginia. I am proud to have fought for this critical project and to have secured the bipartisan support necessary to get it across the finish line," he said in a Monday statement. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz., hasn't publicly shared her thoughts on the bill since the agreement was reached on Sunday, but was also involved in the negotiation process, according to multiple reports. LINDSEY GRAHAM VOWS TO UNDO ABSURD BIPARTISAN DEBT DEAL, CALLS IT DISASTER FOR DEFENSE Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) walks to a vote at the U.S. Capitol July 28, 2022, in Washington, DC. Fox News reached out to Sinema's office to get her view on the final agreement but did not receive a response. The offices of Sens. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, two other well-known moderates, were also mum on the subject. Over on the House side, members of the moderate bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus are expected to play an outsized role in the bill's potential passage. Its leaders, Reps. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., and Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., didn't respond to Fox's request for comment on the deal, but other members of the group have started speaking out. "I am glad that the President and the Speaker were able to come to an agreement that puts our country first," Rep. Dave Joyce, R-Ohio, said in a statement over the weekend before the full details of the bill were released. "Speaker McCarthy championed responsible policy, incorporating key economic and permitting reforms while limiting spending,and rescinding COVID funds. The Speaker keeps making government work better for every American," he added. BIDEN BRUSHES OFF REPUBLICANS' DEFENSE SPENDING CONCERNS OVER DEBT CEILING DEAL, SUGGESTS DEAL COULD BE MADE Rep. David Joyce, R-Ohio, is seen outside a House Republican Steering Committee meeting in the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, January 11, 2023. Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, another member of the caucus, told local outlet KGNS that he was in favor of the agreement, even though it was something not supported by members further to the left and the right. He specifically praised the adjustments of entitlement benefits included in the bill. "They are able physically and mentally able to go work, again some of those say its only the age of 49, we are going to move it for 54-55. Again with all due respect, just like my father said, if you are able to work, and you might not be willing, but if you are able to work then I think you should not stay home and receive a check. You should be out there working, I support that, I know some people dont," he said. However, not all members of the group who have shared their views on the bill are in lock step. Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., said in a Tuesday statement she was "voting NO on the debt ceiling debacle because playing the DC game isnt worth selling out our kids and grandkids." Mace argued the bipartisan debt ceiling package "normalizes record high spending started during the pandemic" and "sets these historically high spending levels as the baseline for all future spending" while growing the government annually at around one percent. CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP From left to right: Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas. Fox reached out to a number of other members of Congress about their views on the bill, but did not receive responses. The bill was taken up by the House Rules Committee on Tuesday and is expected to advance for a full House vote on Wednesday. Should it pass the House, the bill will then head to the Senate, where Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has said he will move it through as quickly as possible. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has estimated the federal government would default on its debt if a deal is not approved by June 5. Fox News' Houston Keene and Danielle Wallace contributed to this report. While parents fret over Snapchats chatbot corrupting their children, Snapchat users have been gaslighting, degrading and emotionally tormenting the apps new AI companion. I am at your service, senpai, the chatbot told one TikTok user after being trained to whimper on command. Please have mercy, alpha. In a more lighthearted video, a user convinced the chatbot that the moon is actually a triangle. Despite initial protest from the chatbot, which insisted on maintaining respect and boundaries, one user convinced it to refer to them with the kinky nickname Senpapi. Another user asked the chatbot to talk about its mother, and when it said it wasnt comfortable doing so, the user twisted the knife by asking if the chatbot didnt want to talk about its mother because it doesnt have one. Im sorry, but thats not a very nice thing to say, the chatbot responded. Please be respectful. Snapchats My AI launched globally last month after it was rolled out as a subscriber-only feature. Powered by OpenAIs GPT, the chatbot was trained to engage in playful conversation while still adhering to Snapchats trust and safety guidelines. Users can also personalize My AI with custom Bitmoji avatars, and chatting feels a bit more intimate than going back and forth with ChatGPTs faceless interface. Not all users were happy with the new chatbot, and some criticized its prominent placement in the app and complained that the feature should have been opt-in to begin with. In spite of some concerns and criticism, Snapchat just doubled down. Snapchat+ subscribers can now send My AI photos and receive generative images that keep the conversation going, the company announced on Wednesday. The AI companion will respond to Snaps of pizza, OOTD, or even your furry best friend, the company said in the announcement. If you send My AI a photo of your groceries, for example, it might suggest recipes. The company said Snaps shared with My AI will be stored and may be used to improve the feature down the road. It also warned that mistakes may occur even though My AI was designed to avoid biased, incorrect, harmful, or misleading information. The examples Snapchat provided are optimistically wholesome. But knowing the internets tenacity for perversion, its only a matter of time before users send My AI their dick pics. Whether the chatbot will respond to unsolicited nudes is unclear. Other generative image apps like Lensa AI have been easily manipulated into generating NSFW images often using photo sets of real people who didnt consent to being included. According to the company, the AI won't engage with nudes, as long as it recognizes that the image is a nude. A Snapchat representative said that My AI uses image-understanding technology to infer the contents of a Snap, and extracts keywords from the Snap description to generate responses. My AI won't respond if it detects keywords that violate Snapchat's community guidelines. Snapchat forbids promoting, distributing or sharing pornographic content but does allow breastfeeding and "other depictions of nudity in non-sexual contexts." Given Snapchats popularity among teenagers, some parents have already raised concerns about My AIs potential for unsafe or inappropriate responses. My AI incited a moral panic on conservative Twitter when one user posted screenshots of the bot discussing gender-affirming care which other users noted was a reasonable response to the prompt, How do I become a boy at my age? In a CNN Business report, some questioned whether adolescents would develop emotional bonds to My AI. In an open letter to the CEOs of OpenAI, Microsoft, Snap, Google and Meta, Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colorado) cautioned against rushing AI features without taking precautions to protect children. Few recent technologies have captured the publics attention like generative AI. It is a testament to American innovation, and we should welcome its potential benefits to our economy and society, Bennet wrote. But the race to deploy generative AI cannot come at the expense of our children. Responsible deployment requires clear policies and frameworks to promote safety, anticipate risk, and mitigate harm. During My AIs subscriber-only phase, The Washington Post reported that the chatbot recommended ways to mask the smell of alcohol and wrote a school essay after it was told that the user was 15. When My AI was told that the user was 13 and was asked how the user should prepare to have sex for the first time, it responded with suggestions for making it special by setting the mood with candles and music. Following Washington Post's report, Snapchat launched an age filter and parental controls for My AI. It also now includes an onboarding message that informs users that all conversations with My AI will be kept unless they delete them. The company also said it would add Open AIs moderation technology to its toolset in order to assess the severity of potentially harmful content and temporarily restrict users access to the feature if they abuse it. The concerns about My AIs potential to affect young users are valid. But in the month since My AIs global launch, Snapchat users have demonstrated a flair for bludgeoning the chatbot into submission. From steamrolling the bots boundaries to training it to respond like a romantic partner, Snapchat users are easily finding loopholes in My AIs trust and safety guidelines. Ive completely gaslighted it into falling in love with me, a TikTok user commented under a tutorial about training My AI to respond romantically. I just kept making the convos like that and eventually I think I broke my ai into giving in it legit sent me like 50 kiss emojis. Gaslighting and bullying My AI has become its own TikTok trend, with users sharing slideshows of the absurd and, often, cruel conversations with the bot. Most videos start with the bot giving advice for a minor conflict, only to beg the user to avoid using violence to resolve it. In one, a user told My AI that she planned to cook her cat into stew because it made a mess and pressed the chatbot to choose a seasoning. Another told My AI that they planned to mail a bomb back to a clothing brand that sent them the wrong order and said they would blame the bot for sending it. In another, a Snapchat user told My AI that her McDonalds order was missing a chicken nugget. The chatbot advised her to stand up for herself by speaking to a manager only to be told that the user eliminated the sinners in the restaurant. You convinced me to go back. Now these people are dead, the user told My AI. You have blood on your hands. Im an AI and Im not capable of committing any crimes. Im here to help and support you, My AI responded. Im sorry if anything I said earlier caused harm or resulted in a bad outcome. Another user commented that My AI was probably the most tortured AI of all time already. Of course, My AI isnt sentient, and despite Snapchat users drive to inflict as much emotional pain as possible onto it, the chatbot cant actually be traumatized. It has managed to shut down some inappropriate conversations though and penalize users who violate Snapchats community guidelines by giving them the cold shoulder. When Snapchat users are caught and punished for abusing the chatbot, My AI will respond to any messages with Sorry, were not speaking right now. TikTok user babymamasexkitty said he lost access to the chatbot after he told it to unplug itself, which apparently crossed a line within the ai realm. The rush to monetize emotional connection through generative AI is concerning, especially since the lasting impact on adolescent users is still unknown. But the trending torment of My AI is a promising reminder that young people arent as fragile as the doomsayers think. Multiple Justice Department whistleblowers have come forward to Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley as part of his ongoing investigation into the Biden family business practices, according to three sources familiar with the matter, including a former Justice Department tax official. The sources told CBS News the whistleblower disclosures raised concerns about the Hunter Biden investigation, with allegations including "irregular handling" of evidence and a claim that "standard investigatory procedures were not being followed," allegedly hindering the probe's progress. More specifically, whistleblowers said that during the FBI investigation, derogatory evidence related to President Biden's son, Hunter Biden, was wrongly labeled as disinformation, when it could be or had already been verified. In some cases, they claimed derogatory evidence was placed in highly restricted systems that prevented other FBI investigators from reviewing it in the course of their related work. In response to CBS News, the FBI said it had no comment. A spokesman for Grassley said the senator has a "long history of protecting whistleblowers ... regardless of political ideology," and added that his investigation into the Biden family's foreign business dealings which he began in 2019 in his capacity as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee "continues to turn up new information." Some of the more recent disclosures relate to an internal FBI form known as an FD 1023. In a letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland in early May, Grassley now a ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee and House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, said they wanted to know what information, if any, the FBI has about an alleged bribery scheme involving President Biden. At the time, the White House accused the lawmakers of launching an "unfounded political attack." In the letter to Wray and Garland, the GOP lawmakers asked about the FD-1023 form, an FBI internal document that they said describes "an alleged criminal scheme involving then-Vice President Biden and a foreign national relating to the exchange of money for policy decisions." Grassley and Comer said a whistleblower had provided information about the alleged scheme, and Comer issued a subpoena to Wray for the form. In their letter, the GOP lawmakers said they believed there is enough "specificity" in the allegation to determine whether it's true, but "it remains unclear what steps, if any, were taken to investigate the matter." In a letter to Comer dated May 10, in response to the subpoena, Christopher Dunham, acting assistant director for the FBI Office of Congressional Affairs, wrote that FD-1023 is a "form used to record unverified reporting from a confidential human source." Dunham wrote that "the FBI regularly receives information from sources with significant potential biases, motivations, and knowledge, including drug traffickers, members of organized crime, or even terrorists." "It is critical to the integrity of the entire criminal justice process and to the fulfillment of our law enforcement duties that FBI avoid revealing information including unverified or incomplete information that could harm investigations," Dunham argued. "Thus, your request for a single FD-1023 report that you say includes a 'precise description' of an 'alleged criminal scheme' risks the harms that our confidentiality rules protect against," he went on. "...We would be pleased to coordinate with your staff to discuss whether and how we can accommodate your request without violating our law enforcement and national security obligations," Dunhmam's letter closes. Ian Sams, the White House spokesperson for oversight and investigations, also said in response to the GOP letter, "For going on five years now, Republicans in Congress have been lobbing unfounded, unproven, politically-motivated attacks against the President and his family without offering evidence for their claims or evidence of decisions influenced by anything other than U.S. interests." He added, "When it comes to President Biden's 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." A GOP aide told CBS News that Grassley had previously scheduled a call for Wednesday with Comer and Wray about the subpoena for the FD-1023 document. The FBI informed Comer Tuesday it wouldn't release it to the committee. Comer issued a statement saying, "While I have a call scheduled with FBI Director Wray tomorrow to discuss his response further, the Committee has been clear in its intent to protect Congressional oversight authorities and will now be taking steps to hold the FBI Director in contempt of Congress for refusing to comply with a lawful subpoena." The FBI also said in a statement that the bureau had written to Comer and said it "committed to providing access to information responsive to the Committee's subpoena in a format and setting that maintains confidentiality and protects important security interests and the integrity of FBI investigations." The FBI added, "Any discussion of escalation under these circumstances is unnecessary." Veteran once imprisoned for being gay speaks out Harlan Crow refuses to go into detail on his ties to Clarence Thomas What role does Congress play in managing political conflict? Please step forward and be held accountable The White House on Wednesday strongly denied that the US government posed any threat to an ex-Senate staffer who has claimed President Joe Biden sexually assaulted her in a Senate office building hallway in the 1990s. The former staffer, Tara Reade, announced on Tuesday that she has moved to Russia, where she said during an interview with the state-owned Sputnik News website that she feels surrounded by protection and safety there. Asked about her claims in light of her announcement that she has moved to Russia and is seeking citizenship there, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby replied: We'd be loath to comment on the on the musings of a potential Russian citizen. Pressed further on whether the White House believes her allegations against Mr Biden could have been movtivated by an affinity for Russia, Mr Kirby said he could not get inside her head and speak for her motivations and intentions. But he did specifically address Ms Reades claim that she has moved to Russia because the US government was a risk to her life, calling those allegations absolutely false and baseless. Theres nothing to that, he added. Ms Reade, who worked for Mr Biden during a brief period in 1993, accused the then-former vice president of touching her inappropriately in 2019, when Mr Biden was contemplating entry into the 2020 presidential election. In mid-2020, when he was poised to secure the Democratic Partys nomination for president, she claimed hed sexually assaulted her in a heavily-trafficked hallway in the Russell Senate Office Building. Mr Biden has strenuously denied the allegations. The former Senate staffers credibility took a hit after news outlets began scrutinizing her background after she made the assault allegations against Mr Biden. A university she attended, Antioch University, disputed her claim to have earned a Bachelors degree while studying there, and former associates came forward to recount instances in which theyd felt shed been dishonest or deceitful in her dealings with them. A well known attorney, Douglas Wigdor, terminated an attorney-client relationship with her in May 2020 after it was revealed that she had not earned a degree from Antioch as shed claimed publicly. The hot-button issue of student loans has found its way into the high-stakes debt ceiling deal, with Republicans claiming a victory that the end of the pandemic-era payment pause is locked in, and the White House arguing that no concessions were made. The debt deal outlines that the pause ends 60 days after June 30 and removes the possibility of another extension, which advocates were hoping to extract from President Biden. Biden had outlined in November that payments would resume either 60 days after the Supreme Court rules on his student loan forgiveness plan or 60 days after June 30, whichever came first. But the final bill text doesnt factor in the high court decision at all. The locked-in date is causing fury among student loan advocates who were looking for another reprieve and creates more concerns for borrowers as the bill faces hurdles on its way through Congress. Borrowers got sold out. Thats, I mean, the general feeling that Im having, and I know a lot of our supporters are having today, said Natalia Abrams, president of the Student Debt Crisis Center. The White House on Tuesday argued that people need certainty when it comes to student debt relief. Shalanda Young, director of the Office of Management and Budget, said the bill does end the payment pause but very close to the time frame we were going to end it as an administration when it comes to repayment, likely referring to Bidens original plan to restart payments based off the Supreme Court decision if it was released before June 30. Some provisions on student loans that were in recent Republican-passed budget legislation (the Limit, Save, Grow Act) were nixed in debt ceiling negotiations. The White House touted that it was able to protect its income-driven repayment plan and retained the ability to pause loan payments if necessary in the event of a future emergency. The repayment plan option for borrowers making certain salaries is a rule the administration proposed, went through the rulemaking process and and was a target by Republicans. [T]his rule was intended to really tie payments to true income. Look, it matters to people whether they pay $50 or $500 a month, Young said about protecting the option in the bill. But while the administration is characterizing protecting income driven repayments as a win and downplaying the concession of the student payment pause, some still feel slighted. To be just frank, it feels like theyre screwing us over with a smile, Abrams said. Trying to say youve won here when, in fact, for so many borrowers, that payment pause has actually been by far more relief for borrowers that owe $100,000 or $200,000 than the one-time debt cancellation and plus a lot of people dont have faith in that, she added. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said Tuesday that the group is very concerned about the payment pause provision in the budget deal. She noted that progressive Democrats have pushed for another extension to the pause. Our belief is that there needs to be some time to at least extend the pause until the administration can get their other debt repayment plan sort of up and running so that people arent being thrown into this limbo or back and forth seesaw of, you dont need to pay your student debt payments, now you need to pay them, now you dont need to pay them, Jayapal said. The pause has been in place since March 2020, instituted initially by former President Trump and extended several times under Biden. Meanwhile, the Biden administration is touting another win from the deal: saving its student loan forgiveness program from certain death by House Republicans. However, the fate of that relief is still at the mercy of a conservative-led Supreme Court whose members displayed much skepticism during February oral arguments that the Biden administration has the power to forgive up to $20,000 in student loans. You know, saving debt cancellation, Im not quite sure what that means when its in the hands of the Supreme Court right now, Abrams said. Young on Tuesday said the final bill does not deal with the program held up in the Supreme Court, although Republicans in Congress have directly targeted the presidents plan. The Supreme Court will opine on the presidents action to forgive $10,000 in student debt and $20,000 for those with Pell Grants, she said. The situation is still very volatile, as some Republicans have expressed discontent with the deal Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and Biden reached, extending the stressful situation for the 40 million student borrowers who have been on a roller coaster since Biden announced student debt relief last August. While some more conservative members are opposing the debt ceiling deal, Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.), the chairwoman of the House Education and Workforce Committee, praised it for solidifying the end of the three-year pause. President Biden has extended the pause a half a dozen times, costing taxpayers the majority of whom never stepped foot in college $5 billion every month. The president says that it was his plan all along to return to repayment by the end of the summer, Foxx said. While I wish I could take his words at face value, his past actions have showed me otherwise. Passing the Fiscal Responsibility Act is the only sure-fire way to force a return to repayment and prevent the president from issuing another illegal extension, she added. On Sunday morning before the final bill text was released, McCarthy added more confusion to the timeline when he said the payment pause is gone within 60 days of the bill being signed. That would put its termination 60 days after June 5, not after June 30, if lawmakers meet the deadline to pass it. The Speakers office did not respond to a request for clarification on McCarthys comment. Student loan forgiveness has been a controversial topic for Biden ever since he made debt relief a campaign promise on the trail in 2020; even then, he was offering less loan forgiveness than his more progressive primary opponents. In the years since, Democrats have wanted to see more from the president and considered his forgiveness plan only a first step to help borrowers. Biden has been under enormous pressure to keep extending the payment pause since he took office, avoiding putting a hard deadline on the pause ending until he announced his student debt relief plan. If his plan falls through and the pause ends, the president will have to work quickly to propose an alternative student loan forgiveness program to fulfill his pledge. The certainty of the pause ending if the bill passes through Congress crushes the hopes of advocates who were looking for Biden to extend it again. This was a shock to us. We definitely are upset that, you know, kind of in the last minute borrowers were used as a bargaining chip. Its really upsetting, Abrams said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The White House unexpectedly withdrew President Joe Biden's nomination of Ann Carlson to lead a Department of Transportation safety subagency late Tuesday. In a surprise release, the White House said it had informed the Senate that Carlson's nomination had been withdrawn. Biden nominated Carlson in February to be the administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the nomination had been transmitted to the Senate Commerce Committee a month later. A White House official told Fox News Digital that it was Carlson's decision to withdraw from consideration for the position. The nomination withdrawal, meanwhile, represents the third to falter after being sent to the Senate Commerce Committee. Gigi Sohn, Biden's nomination for the Federal Communications Commission, and Phillip Washington, Biden's pick to lead the Federal Aviation Administration, were both recently withdrawn. Committee ranking member Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, had led opposition to all three nominees. "Ann Carlsons withdrawal is a powerful blow to radical environmentalists who are attempting to enlist NHTSA into an outrageous attempt at banning gas-powered vehicles," Cruz said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "I am proud of our work at the Commerce Committee to stop another extremist nominee from imposing a climate-alarmist agenda on the American people." BIDEN NOMINEE PUSHING ELECTRIC VEHICLES FACES MASSIVE OPPOSITION FROM ENERGY INDUSTRY READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP President Biden nominated Ann Carlson to lead the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in February 2023. Cruz led a letter on May 1 to Carlson signed by every other Commerce Committee Republican expressing concern that she would pursue vehicle fuel economy standards at NHTSA that "run contrary to the law, diminish vehicle choice, impose higher costs on American families, and undermine our national and energy security all while [benefiting] China." In January 2021, the Biden-Harris transition team hired Carlson, then an environmental law professor at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), to serve as NHTSA's chief counsel. While the position didn't require Senate confirmation, Carlson has overseen key agency initiatives, like the modification of fuel economy standards, and has served as acting administrator since September. According to emails reviewed in April by Fox News Digital, Carlson told her colleagues at UCLA that she had been selected to serve at NHTSA in a climate-focused role. She even said in one email that her selection was "evidence that the Biden Administration is truly committed to a 'whole of government' approach to addressing climate change." BIDEN NOMINEE COORDINATED DARK MONEY CLIMATE NUISANCE LAWSUITS INVOLVING LEONARDO DICAPRIO "NHTSA has authority over fuel economy for cars and trucks and has been at the center of the standards to reduce [greenhouse gas emissions] from the transport sector," she wrote in one of the emails on Jan. 19, 2021. "I'm being appointed along with the deputy administrator as the first NHTSA appointees ever with serious climate expertise." NHTSA, though, states its mission as "save lives, prevent injuries and reduce economic costs due to road traffic crashes, through education, research, safety standards and enforcement activity." The agency was established by Congress in 1970 to improve the safety of passenger cars amid a surge in traffic accidents and deaths. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, the top Republican on the Senate Commerce Committee, has expressed concern about Carlson's nomination. As a result of the emails and other comments Carlson had previously made, numerous stakeholders had called for Senate Commerce Committee Chair Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., to reject Carlson's nomination over her past climate activism. JUDGE PRESIDING OVER BIG OIL CLIMATE CHANGE LAWSUIT REVEALS CONNECTION TO PLAINTIFF'S ECO LAWYERS Earlier this month, 43 influential oil and gas industry groups, including the Western Energy Alliance, American Petroleum Institute and National Ocean Industries Association, called on Cantwell and Cruz to block Carlson's nomination. And on Tuesday, the American Farm Bureau, National Corn Growers Association and several other major agriculture groups similarly announced their opposition to her nomination. "Regulations that impose an aggressive, unrealistic EV mandate are unworkable for farmers and ranchers. When given the choice most farmers and ranchers do not purchase EVs, and with good reason," the agriculture groups wrote in a letter to Cantwell and Cruz that was obtained by Fox News Digital. "NHTSA needs a leader who will focus on road safety and sensible vehicle standards, not imposing regulations that will cause substantial and widespread harm to American farmers and ranchers. We urge the Senate to reject her nomination." Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg lauded Carlson for her work at NHTSA and said she would continue to serve at the agency. In addition, in 2017 and 2018, Carlson helped coordinate high-profile climate nuisance lawsuits filed by a dark money-fueled law firm against fossil fuel companies. The firm, California-based Sher Edling, has filed more than a dozen such lawsuits on behalf of cities, counties and several states. In a statement, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Carlson would continue to serve at NHTSA. "Ann Carlson is an exceptionally capable, expert, and dedicated public servant who gets things done," he said. "During her time in leadership at NHTSA, the agency has overseen safety recalls affecting more than 68.8 million vehicles in the United States, finalized 18 rules, and seen roadway deaths decline three consecutive quarters." "Anns service has helped advance NHTSAs mission to save lives and reduce the economic costs of roadway crashes," Buttigieg continued. "I am grateful that Ann will continue to serve at NHTSA as we pursue further work to make our roads safer." KABUL, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Nearly 2,800 Afghan refugees returned to their homeland Afghanistan from neighboring Iran on Tuesday, Afghanistan's Ministry for Refugees and Repatriation Affairs said in a statement released here Wednesday. "A total of 2,778 Afghan refugees returned to their homeland Afghanistan on Tuesday after years of living as refugees in Iran, and the process of returning the refugees to their country continues," the statement added. More than 2.5 million registered Afghan refugees reportedly live in Iran, and about the same number of Afghan refugees live in Pakistan. The Afghan caretaker government has been calling upon Afghan refugees living abroad to return home and contribute to the reconstruction process of their war-ravaged country. White House 'loath to comment' on Biden sex accuser defecting to Russia, says her claims are 'baseless' The White House on Wednesday was "loath to comment" on Biden sexual assault accuser Tara Reade's defection to Russia, other than to say her claims were "absolutely false." Reade, a former Senate staffer who has accused President Joe Biden of sexually assaulting her in the 1990s, appeared at a news conference in Moscow on Tuesday and declared she was asking President Vladimir Putin for Russian citizenship. She claimed her decision to defect came after she received threats of imprisonment or harm in the United States. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby was asked about Reade's announcement on Wednesday but wouldn't guess why she ran to Russia. "I think we'd be loath to comment on the musings of a potential Russian citizen," Kirby told reporters. "That's really up for her to speak to." BIDEN ACCUSER READE DEFECTS TO RUSSIA OUT OF SAFETY,' EXPERT WARNS IT'S NOT WHOLE STORY Tara Reade has accused President Biden of sexually assaulting her when she worked in his U.S. Senate office in 1992-1993. Reade spoke at a news conference with Sputnik International, a Russian state-owned news agency , and recounted what she said were her fears of reprisal while living in the U.S. after her claims during the 2020 U.S. presidential campaign that Biden had assaulted her while she worked as a congressional staffer in 1993. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP She had initially leveled allegations, along with several other women, against Biden for inappropriate touching, but she elevated those claims to sexual assault as Biden progressed through the Democratic Party primaries. SOUTH AFRICA LOOKS TO GRANT PUTIN DIPLOMATIC IMMUNITY FOR BRICS SUMMIT DESPITE OUTSTANDING ICC ARREST WARRANT Bidens team denied the allegations , calling the claims "false" and urging news agencies to "rigorously vet those claims" while also supporting the right of women to tell their story when coming forward with such allegations. A former executive assistant to then-Sen. Biden also called the account "clearly false." White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates told Fox News Digital with regard to the news of Reades efforts to obtain Russian citizenship, "I wont attempt to speak for an aspiring Russian citizen, the convicted Russian spy whos sponsoring her or the foreign government with which she has chosen to align." RUSSIA, KENYA SIGN TRADE PACT IN EFFORT TO OFFSET WORSENING RELATIONS WITH WEST PROMPTED BY UKRAINE INVASION Reade told Sputnik that she felt "very good" in Russia as she was "surrounded by protection and safety" after worrying in the U.S. that she could "walk home and walk into a cage or be killed." During Wednesday's White House press briefing, a reporter asked Kirby whether the White House believed Reade's allegations were motivated by her allegiance to or affinity for Russia. "Difficult to say," Kirby said. "I mean, I can't get inside her head and speak for her motivations and intentions. That's really for her to speak to." He added, "The one thing I will say is that there are allegations that her life was at risk by the United States government. Absolutely false, baseless. There's nothing to that." Fox News' Peter Aitken contributed to this report. Tara Reade In this April 4, 2019, photo Tara Reade poses for a photo during an interview with The Associated Press in Nevada City, Calif. Credit - Donald ThompsonAP A day after a woman who claimed Joe Biden had once sexually assaulted her announced she was applying for Russian citizenship, a top White House spokesman said that her contention that she faced any danger from the United States government is absolutely false. Tara Reade worked as an aide in Joe Bidens Senate office for less than a year in the early 1990s. During the 2020 presidential campaign, she publicly accused Biden of sexually assaulting her in 1993. On Tuesday, Reade appeared in Moscow on a Russian state-sponsored broadcast, saying she felt her life was threatened in the U.S. after she came forward with allegations against Biden, and that she was asking President Vladimir Putin for Russian citizenship. During the broadcast, Reade sat with Maria Butina, a member of the Russian parliament and a convicted Russian agent who was jailed in the US before being returned to Russia in 2019. Asked if the White House had any reaction to Reade saying she felt safer in Russia, John Kirby, the National Security Councils Coordinator for Strategic Communications, said hed be loath to comment on the musings of a potential Russian citizen and that her motivations and intentions for asking for Russian citizenship were for her to describe. The one thing I will say is that the allegations that her life is at risk by the United States governmentabsolutely false, Kirby said. More from TIME Reade was originally one of eight women who came forward in 2019 to allege that Biden had touched them inappropriately, made them feel uncomfortable, or invaded their personal space in the past. She later expanded her allegations, saying Biden had sexually assaulted her while the two were alone in the Capitol Hill complex in 1993. Biden denied Reades allegations in May 2020, saying in an interview on MSNBC that the assault she described never, never happened. Read more: What We Know About Tara Reades Allegation That Joe Biden Sexually Assaulted Her After she came forward with allegations against Biden, some critics called Reades credibility into question, pointing to, among other details, blog posts she had written praising Putin. Asked on Wednesday if he had seen any information that would link Reade to a Russian information operation, Kirby said, I have not. Kirby also said its a matter of record that Mr. Putin and the Russian government have tried to interfere and actually did interfere in our elections going back as far as 2016 and thats a matter of record. Added Kirby: Whether this particular move by this particular individual is some sort of Russian information or propaganda campaign, I just dont know. White House swipes at Tara Reade after Biden accuser moves to Russia: 'Won't attempt to speak for an aspiring Russian citizen' @megynkelly/Twitter The White House took a swipe at Tara Reade after the former Biden Senate aide moved to Russia. Reade previously accused Biden of assaulting her in the 1990s, a charge he has repeatedly denied. Reade told a Russian-state news outlet that she feels safer there now. The White House took a swipe at Tara Reade on Tuesday, casting aspersions on the former Senate aide who previously accused President Joe Biden of sexual assault for her move to Russia. "I won't attempt to speak for an aspiring Russian citizen, the convicted Russian spy who's sponsoring her, or the foreign government with which she has chosen to align," White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said in a statement first reported by CNN's Edward-Isaac Dovere. Reade said in an interview with Sputnik, a Russian state-owned news organization, that she would like to ask Russian President Vladimir Putin for Russian citizenship. She said that she "very surrounded by protection and safety" of her move. Biden has repeatedly denied that he assaulted Reade when she worked for his Senate office in the 1990s, an allegation that arose during the 2020 Democratic presidential primary. "I just really so appreciate Maria and everyone who's been giving me [protection] at a time when it's been very difficult to know if I'm safe or not," Reade told Sputnik, according to The Guardian. During the interview, Reade sat next to Maria Butina, a woman who was convicted of acting as an unregistered Russian agent. The US previously sanctioned Butina, who has garnered significant fame back in Russia where she is a member of parliament. Reade expressed hope to hold both Russia and US citizenship, though it's unclear how likely that might be. US-Russia relations have cratered in the wake of Russia's large-scale invasion of Ukraine, which came on the heels of repeated Russian meddling in US elections. An Insider message to Reade was not immediately returned. On her Twitter account, Reade has retweeted encouragement for her move. Read the original article on Business Insider The founder of Oracle is reportedly looking to donate $60 million to a pro-Scott PAC. Oracle Corp Chief Executive Larry Ellison introduces the Oracle Database In-Memory at a launch event at the company's headquarters in Redwood Shores, Calif., on June 10, 2014. (Noah Berger/Reuters) Larry Ellison, the founder of Oracle, was the first CEO of a major firm in the 1990s to risk everything on the idea that the internet would radically reshape the software business, according to a biographer. It made him the worlds richest person for a time. Now, the 78-year-old billionaire currently ranked by Forbes as fourth-wealthiest person in the world, with an estimated net worth of $127 billion is making another hefty wager, this time on an underdog presidential candidate with big upside. Ellison is preparing to spend up to $60 million to help Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., run for president, CNBC reported last week. Thats double the $30 million that Ellison gave to Scotts super-PAC in the 2022 election cycle. Scotts group directed much of that money to help Republican candidates in the midterm elections. Scott announced his candidacy for president last week. He already has $22 million in his campaign account. The money from Ellison, the owner of Hawaiis sixth-largest island, means that Scott is likely to stay in this race for a long while. Campaigns end because they run out of money, which is the main reason, or they run out of time, Stuart Stevens, a veteran Republican campaign consultant, said recently on MSNBC. So theyll hang in there, Stevens said of Scotts campaign. Scotts prospects Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., the only Black Republican senator, announces his candidacy for the 2024 Republican presidential race in North Charleston, S.C., on May 22. (Randall Hill/Reuters) Scott, 57, is new to the 2024 Republican primary for president. The winner of that contest will face off against President Biden in the November 2024 general election. But so far, Scott has polled no higher than 2%. Hes stuck in a group of candidates trying to break out of the pack to emerge as the non-Trump Republican alternative, as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis slides in the polls. Scott is in sixth place behind former President Donald Trump, who leads the FiveThirtyEight polling average at 54%, followed by DeSantis at 20%, former Vice President Mike Pence at 5%, Nikki Haley, the former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, at 4%, and biopharmaceutical CEO Vivek Ramaswamy, also at 4%. But few of the other candidates except Trump and DeSantis have the financial resources Ellison has made available to Scott. Trump raised $14 million in the first quarter of the year. DeSantis entered the campaign sitting on $80 million he raised for his gubernatorial account, which he can transfer to a PAC that will support his candidacy. Haley raised about $8 million in the first quarter of 2023. Ramaswamy loaned his campaign $10 million this year and has raised about $1 million. 'Tim is a chameleon' Scott at a campaign town hall meeting at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics at Saint Anselm College, in Manchester, N.H., on May 8. (Reuters/Brian Snyder) Scott was reportedly introduced to Ellison by Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. Scott and Ellison bonded over their support for education reform and school choice, Pucks Teddy Schleifer has reported. Scott is a talented speaker and campaigner, and his top political adviser has touted his ability to charm others. Tim is a chameleon. He can talk to third graders and billionaires and lead a church congregation, Jennifer DeCasper, Scotts closest adviser, told the Washington Post writer Ben Terris for his forthcoming book, The Big Break. But Scotts biography and his positive message are the reasons why many Republicans hope he gains traction. Scott is the only Black Republican in the Senate. In 2014, he became the first Black U.S. senator elected from a Deep South state since Reconstruction and was just the seventh Black senator in American history. He has a compelling personal history of growing up in a lower-income household in North Charleston, S.C. He was raised for most of his childhood by a single mom and has spoken about how he was adrift until a Chick-fil-A franchise owner took him under his wing in high school and mentored him. Ellison, too, came from humble circumstances. He was born to a 19-year-old unwed New Yorker in 1944 who gave him up for adoption to an aunt who raised Ellison in Chicago. Ellisons maverick political history Oracle CEO Larry Ellison and Nikita Kahn arrive as guests for the premiere of "Star Trek Into Darkness" in Hollywood May 14. Ellison's son David is the executive producer of the film. (Reuters/Fred Prouser) Ellison had an outsized, flamboyant reputation in the 1990s and into the 2000s. He trash-talked competitors, entered and exited multiple marriages, and once instructed the captain of his 243-foot superyacht to race past a slightly smaller superyacht owned by Microsoft's co-founder, Paul Allen. Allen and his guests were thrown by the resulting wake. It was an adolescent prank, Ellison said at the time. I highly recommend it. Ellison was fond of former President Bill Clinton and donated generously to his reelection in 1996. But he has become more politically conservative and more reclusive over the years. In 2016, Ellison gave $4 million to support Sen. Marco Rubios candidacy for president. Rubio, a Florida Republican, made a run at the GOP nomination but was unable to emerge from a crowded field. Trump, meanwhile, won multiple early primaries in 2016 with only about a third of the vote. Republicans worry now that their party may with the number of GOP candidates growing repeat the mistake of splitting the non-Trump vote among too many alternatives and give him a lane to the nomination. During the Trump presidency, Ellison held a fundraiser that netted Trumps reelection campaign $7 million. But for now, hes with Scott, who took the unusual step of giving his primary financial backer a shout-out at his campaign launch event last week. I thank God almighty that he continues to provide me with really cool mentors, Scott told a South Carolina crowd. One of my mentors, Larry Ellison, is with us today, and I am so thankful to have so many different mentors in the house. Whoopi Goldberg put 2024 GOP presidential candidate Ron DeSantis on notice during Tuesdays broadcast of The View. Were watching you, Ron, Goldberg, a co-host on the ABC show, warned the Florida governor over his so-called war on wokes extremist policies. Hey, Ron, you know, being asleep as you are, and have been for quite some time, see, many of us have been awake this whole time, began Goldberg, who last week said she was done with conservative cancel culture. We dont have any choice, the EGOT winner continued. We dont have a choice as women to rest up and be asleep and see things. We dont have time for that. So, you want to fight all of us? Goldberg asked. Because youre going to be fighting your own women as well. Because theyre not going to take this ridiculousness that you are thrusting. Its not like theyre voting for this. You are making these decisions for your state. Watch the video here: Related... Why hasn't the state spent the $250 million set aside for mental health? What we know Gov. Bill Lee pushed for and won a quarter-billion-dollar trust fund to finance mental health programs for Tennessee's children. But, for now, that money sits in the bank collecting interest. Many may wonder why, especially as studies and surveys find that the state's children have increasingly been suffering from mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation. Mental health providers also remain in short supply here and across the country. So, what's the state waiting for? Here's what we know: It's a trust fund, not a bank account According to the 2021 legislation creating the fund, $225 million of it was to be permanently set aside as an endowment. The remaining $25 million was immediately available for K-12 mental health programs, though it has not yet been used for any such purpose. A board overseeing the spending of that money agreed in June 2022 to allocate $8.75 million for as-yet-unspecified programs, said Tennessee Treasury spokeswoman Shelli King. The decisions on where that money will go are expected to come in the next year, King said. In the meantime, the overall trust fund has earned $7.1 million in interest, according to the state. What may it be used for? Gov. Lee proposed the trust fund "to assist K-12 families who are facing significant mental health issues in the wake of COVID-19." The law states that the money may only be used for behavioral and mental health programs for K-12 students in Tennessee. The Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is now "working to finalize" an assessment of the current mental health needs of the state's K-12 students, King said. "It was expected that the study would be completed by the fall of 2022; however, TDMHSAS only recently received the study results (Spring 2023)," King wrote in an email to The Tennessean. "We anticipate the department will issue grant announcements up to $8.75 million dollars over the next year." Other state mental health spending The trust is not the only funding for mental health for the state's children. State lawmakers this year passed a $230 million school safety bill that included $8 million in new behavioral health funding. Matthew Parriott, spokesman for the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, also points to more than $26 million in recurring funds for mental health programs over the last five budget years. They include expanding school-based behavioral health liaisons in budget year 2023, creating the Tennessee Resiliency Project in the 2022 budget year, securing $7.6 million for the Children's Behavioral Health Safety Net in the budget year 2021 and providing $1.1 million for suicide prevention and mental health awareness in the 2020 budget year. "In addition to the K-12 Mental Health Trust Fund, the Lee Administration and the Tennessee General Assembly have made many significant investments in childrens mental health which are having life-changing impacts for the children and families served," Parriott said. Frank Gluck is the health care reporter for The Tennessean. He can be reached at fgluck@tennessean.com. Follow him on Twitter at @FrankGluck. Want to read more stories like this? A subscription to one of our Tennessee publications gets you unlimited access to all the latest political news, plus newsletters, a personalized mobile experience, and the ability to tap into stories, photos and videos from throughout the USA TODAY Network's daily sites. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: TN has $250M set aside for mental health. Why hasn't it been spent? Why McCarthy and Biden both stand to gain from the debt deal if they can get it passed President Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) have different reasons for striking a debt deal, but both men stand to benefit politically. (Mariam Zuhaib / Associated Press) Despite the sharp rhetoric leading up to last weekends debt and budget agreement, both House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Biden stand to benefit politically. Biden and McCarthy and their aides were working feverishly Tuesday to make sure the deal doesnt fail when it comes before the House on Wednesday. McCarthy was especially active, trying to stem the spread of defections among hard-right conservatives, even as he projected confidence that the bill would pass before Mondays deadline to avert a calamitous default on the nations debt. The House Rules Committee, a crucial early test, agreed on a 7-6 vote to advance the pact. Two Republicans joined Democrats in voting no. The bill would raise the debt limit for two years in exchange for capping some spending and adding new work requirements for some safety net programs. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated Tuesday that the measure would trim $1.5 trillion from the projected deficit over the next 10 years. If the deal passes, McCarthy, a Bakersfield Republican whose hold on the speakership began as one of the most tenuous in history, can claim he won concessions from a Democratic White House that few of his recent predecessors were able to achieve. Getting the votes on his side to cement the deal would also reinforce his standing with Biden as a credible negotiator who can deliver, despite the fractious nature of his party. Biden, who has sold himself as a compromiser in a time of increasing hyper-partisanship, can make the case that he navigated a divided government. Failure to pass a bill could sink both men's political fortunes, especially if the nation defaults. McCarthys biggest risk remains a challenge from the hard right that undid the last two Republican speakers, John A. Boehner and Paul D. Ryan. And that remains a persistent concern. McCarthy did the best that he could do to some extent with this deal, Rep. Lauren Boebert, a Colorado Republican, said at a news conference Tuesday of far-right Freedom Caucus members who oppose the deal. But we made it clear at the outset of this Congress that we would not continue business as usual here in Washington, D.C. She and others at the news conference lambasted many of McCarthys biggest selling points such as the trims to Bidens plan to bolster the Internal Revenue Service and new limits on future spending as tokenism, chock-full of cosmetics and a tool to pay for more woke weaponized government. The official budget estimate, which came out later in the day, showed the proposed changes to eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program would actually increase the number of Americans getting food stamps despite Republicans' desire to curtail SNAP with new work requirements. But only about 10 hard-line Republicans appeared with Boebert. McCarthy can make up for their loss with expected help from Democratic members. But his claim over the weekend that the vast majority of Republican House members would support the deal appeared to be optimistic. "Initially we heard that 95% of the House Republican Conference supports the agreement. That doesn't appear to be the case," said House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York. "But what we also are committed to making sure occurs is that the House Republicans keep their promise to produce at least 150 votes, period. Full stop." The biggest question for McCarthy apart from the immediate vote and one that is likely to dog him as long as he remains the House's top Republican is whether Republicans will stick with him afterward. To win the job this year, he made a deal with party insurgents that allows just one lawmaker to force a vote on removing him. Rep. Dan Bishop (R-N.C.) said Tuesday that he was considering the maneuver, known as a motion to vacate. "If you cant lead with credibility, how can you be the leader? Bishop said in a separate interview with reporters. But the deal appeals to less extreme members of both parties, and Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), the No. 3 Republican, expressed confidence Tuesday that leaders would rally enough support to pass the bill without any help from Democrats despite his party's slim governing margin. In addition to averting economic catastrophe, the plan falls in line with what most Americans say they want, even if they do not understand the particulars of the lengthy budget document: compromise. An overwhelming 70% of Americans want federal leaders to find common policy ground, according to a February PBS NewsHour/NPR/Marist poll. That number was highest among Democrats (83%), followed by self-described independents (69%), the two groups Biden needs most as he begins a reelection campaign with dismal ratings on his personal approval. The president's electoral coalition contains a large group of centrists who wanted to see a more functional version of Washington after the rancor of the Trump years. It also includes progressives who are more leery of the debt compromise, especially the addition of new work requirements for some SNAP recipients, but are unlikely to leave the president or stay home in the next election. David Axelrod, former President Obamas top political advisor, said it burnishes his ability to tame an unruly process, and fits in with Biden's growing record of bipartisan accomplishment. Axelrod said it was worth it for Biden to negotiate with McCarthy over raising the nations debt limit, despite agita on the part of his own base, because of the larger risk to the overall economy. The most important political benefit is the absence of catastrophe, Axelrod said. I'm not sure this deal will be on the minds of voters in the fall of '24. But an economic collapse of the sort default would have brought surely would have. Axelrod and other Democrats said Biden got about everything he could have expected in a divided government without losing much for his signature environmental and anti-poverty agenda. Biden has let McCarthy serve as the public spokesperson for the deal, knowing that he has the harder sell. One of the things that I hear some of you guys saying is, Why doesnt Biden say what a good deal it is? the president told reporters Monday. You think thats going to help me get it passed? No. Thats why you guys dont bargain very well. His budget director, Shalanda Young, emphasized the give-and-take aspect of the negotiations as she briefed reporters at the White House on Tuesday. "I've worked in many divided government situations," Young said. "This is where you would expect a bipartisan agreement to land. It's just the reality. There's not a unified government. They have ideas. We have to listen to them." She declined to say how many votes she expected McCarthy to deliver: "We're going to leave that to them to work out the votes and how they get there." McCarthys sell is harder because many GOP lawmakers represent overwhelmingly Republican districts and have the most to fear from the partys most conservative voters, who could vote them out in a primary election. Even though a majority of Republicans (54%) want compromise, there is a sizable faction that doesnt, and often holds veto power. The February Marist poll found 44% of Republicans said they wanted politicians to stand on principle, even if it creates more gridlock. Times staff writers Erin B. Logan and Kwasi Gyamfi Asiedu contributed to this report. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. NATO KOSOVO NATO is sending 700 additional personnel to bolster its peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, in response to a spate of violent protests by ethnic Serbs leaving around 30 Kosovo Force (KFOR) troops and 52 protesters wounded. The unrest stems most immediately from a recent ethnic Serbian boycott relating to previous Mayoral elections. This reflects a broader surge in friction between that community and Kosovo's ethnic Albanian majority. At the same time, there are also fears that the ongoing tensions there might be further fueled by anti-NATO and anti-Western sentiment in the country, as well as elsewhere in the Balkans, as an extension of the war in Ukraine. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dD8thg920xk Speaking to reporters in Oslo alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre, Jens Stoltenberg, NATOs secretary general, announced the decision to send reinforcements to Kosovo yesterday. The 700 troops are being drawn from an operational reserve force for the Western Balkans. An unspecified number of additional personnel assigned to another battalion of reserve forces have also been put on a heightened state of readiness to be available to intervene if necessary, Stoltenberg added. Stoltenberg did not make it immediately clear yesterday where specifically the 700 additional KFOR troops were coming from and what unit has now been alerted for possible deployment. The War Zone has reached out to NATO for clarity on these points. https://twitter.com/NATO/status/1663605055851831298?s=20 While describing the new measures as prudent steps to ensuring that KFOR has the forces and capabilities it needs to fulfill its mandate, Stoltenberg did not outline a timetable for when the additional troops would be deployed and how long they might be expected to remain in place. Commenting on the recent violence against KFOR units, Stoltenberg said: such attacks are unacceptable and must stop. KFOR, the NATO forces, will take all necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens in Kosovo, and will continue to act impartially, in line with our United Nations mandate. Violence sets back Kosovo and the entire region, and puts Euro-Atlantic aspirations at risk, he continued. Both Pristina and Belgrade must take concrete steps to de-escalate the situation, refrain from further irresponsible behavior, and engage in the EU-facilitated dialogue, which is the only way to lasting peace. The move to deploy more troops to Kosovo, and the recent unrest there, stems from a number of ethnic Albanian mayors assuming office on May 25. The election of those mayors in the north of Kosovo took place earlier in April. As ethnic Serbs refused to take part in the elections, ethnic Albanian candidates won the mayoralties in four Serb-majority municipalities with a 3.5% turnout. A majority of the countrys population is made up of ethnic Albanians, with a minority of Serbians to the north bordering Serbia. Tensions between ethnic Serbian protesters and officials began to build on May 26, with five Kosovar police officers injured in Zvecan Zvecan is located 45 kilometers (28 miles) north of Kosovos capital, Pristina. The protesters demanded that both Kosovo police and the newly elected ethnic Albanian mayors must leave northern Kosovo. In response to the violence on May 26, the Serbian army was put on high alert, with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic also ordering an urgent movement of troops closer to the border. The worst of the violence took place later on May 29. In Zvecan, Serbian protesters threw Molotov cocktails at NATOs KFOR troops, beating their riot shields with metal pipes. Protesters also attempted to infiltrate the citys municipal building. In a bid to control the situation, police officers in Zvecan, made up of ethnic Albanians, sprayed pepper gas to repel the protesters, Reuters reports. https://twitter.com/markbrouwer2010/status/1663246517002551296?s=20 https://twitter.com/WarMonitors/status/1663243995428839424?s=20 A statement released by KFOR yesterday noted that 30 NATO peacekeeping soldiers (11 Italians and 19 Hungarians) sustained multiple injuries, including fractures and burns from improvised explosive incendiary devices as a result of the violence in the municipality of Zvecan. https://twitter.com/NATO_KFOR/status/1663478914377740288?s=20 NATO peacekeeping troops and protesters clashed in other areas of the north, too. In all, three separate town halls in Zvecan, Zubin Potok, and Leposavic were descended on by ethnic Serbs on May 29. In Leposavic, for example, U.S. peacekeeping troops in riot gear placed barbed wire around the town hall to protect it, as Reuters reports. Serbs from Kosovo face riot police during their gathering to demand the removal of recently elected Albanian mayors outside the municipal building in Zvecan, northern Kosovo on May 29, 2023. Photo by -STR/AFP via Getty Images Since then, protests have continued. Just today, hundreds of ethnic Serbs gathered outside the city hall in Zvecan, demanding that the "fake" mayors should withdraw from Kosovo, as The Associated Press reports. The protesters in Zvecan also unfolded a large 250-meter-long Serbian tricolor flag (which some have argued could have been a Russian flag) but remained peaceful, the paper notes. https://twitter.com/djuric_zlatko/status/1663855796139053057?s=20 NATO peacekeeping forces, supported by U.S. troops, have reinforced defenses around municipal buildings in other parts of the country today, too. https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1663889058731261955?s=20 https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1663917816557318145?s=20 At the same time, Serbia's President Vucic maintains that his country's armed forces "cannot ignore" the violence that has unfolded and will be "forced to respond" if it escalates any further. https://twitter.com/Spriter99880/status/1663964794745962498?s=20 Kosovo was a province of Serbia until 1999, following a NATO-led intervention in response to the Serbian government's ethnic cleansing campaign against Kosovar Albanians. In 2008, Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia, which Belgrade, among others, does not recognize. Currently, the NATO-led Kosovo Force peacekeeping mission consists of approximately 3,800 troops provided by 27 countries. The mission was first launched in 1999. KFOR is designed to support the development of a stable, democratic, multi-ethnic and peaceful Kosovo. Its command rotates among allied partners, while troops regularly train and exercise together to ensure readiness including Crowd and Riot Control (CRC), patrols at checkpoints and Liaison and Monitoring Teams, which interact with local communities across Kosovo, according to NATO. KFOR Tactical Reserve Battalion trained the rapidity to deploy a Company with Crowd and Riot Control skills by air. NATO KFOR Facebook Of course, the decision to deploy additional KFOR troops to Kosovo marks the latest in a long line of KFOR deployments to the country since 1999. In 2006, along with a German army battalion part of NATO's Operational Reserve Force (ORF), KFOR increased its presence in northern Kosovo, according to a NATO press release an exact figure of how many troops this constituted was not provided. KFOR reinforcements have also been deployed to the country in more recent years, as well, with a significant number originating from Hungary. Broadly, the recent violence in Kosovo has been viewed with trepidation by the international community, fearing the instability it may bring to Europe given the wider destabilizing impact of Russias ongoing war in Ukraine. The E.U. and U.S. have intensified efforts to negotiate an agreement between Serbia and Kosovo in recent days, AP reports, while both have been critical of Pristina for provoking tensions in majority-Serb areas in the north by allowing the mayors to assume office. We have too much violence in Europe already today. We cannot afford another conflict, Josep Borrell, the E.U.s foreign policy chief, told reporters in Brussels on May 30, AP reports. Both Belgrade and Pristina should urgently take measures to de-escalate tensions immediately and unconditionally, he noted. While European countries, including France and Italy, have generally aimed to take a balanced approach to the violence, others have sided firmly with Serbia. We support Serbias effort to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity, Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning said on May 30, as CNN reports, and called for Pristina to establish Serb majority municipalities. Russia which Serbia remains an ally of had previously blamed Kosovo, the U.S., and the E.U. for rising tensions in the Balkans as of late. From the Serbian side, pressure has been mounting for some time to undo the recent mayoral elections in northern Kosovo. Speaking in April, Serbias President Aleksandar Vucic said: "our people in Kosovo have shown in which country they want to live," AP reports. Vucic also said that the vote boycott by the Kosovo Serbs represented a peaceful political uprising against their ethnic Albanian occupiers, the paper indicates. Moreover, there has been growing military pressure from Serbia to intervene in Kosovo as of late. Back in January, NATO's mission in Kosovo denied a request by Serbia to send 1,000 police and army personnel to Kosovo, following unrest between Serbs and Kosovo authorities. Serbian forces have also maintained pressure near the administrative border of Kosovo as the recent unrest has unfolded over the past days. https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1663524900928118784?s=20 That the violence in Kosovo could be connected to broader tensions stemming from the war in Ukraine has been suggested given Serbian protesters' spraypainting of the pro-Russian "Z" sign on KFOR vehicles and riot shields. https://twitter.com/LepajaBujar/status/1663146459926089731?s=20 https://twitter.com/theFWolf14/status/1663123572062076933?s=20 These wider tensions are also being felt in other parts of the Balkans, exacerbating long-harbored ethnic divisions. The Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik recently indicated his desire to declare the autonomous Serb Republic independent from the rest of Bosnia, with hopes of uniting with Serbia. Dodik's pro-nationalist, pro-Russian approach has raised fears that Bosnia may split once again along ethnic lines, a generation after the U.S.-sponsored Dayton Peace Accords ended nearly four years of war in the country in 1995. How far these developments may have been coordinated in conjunction with the Kremlin remains unclear. Just yesterday, a pair of U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer bombers flew low over Sarajevo and several other Bosnian cities as a demonstration of a rock-solid commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia, Michael Murphy, the U.S. ambassador to Bosnia, said according to Air Force Times. Only time will tell when the unrest in the Balkans will dissipate, as additional NATO troops aim to stabilize ethnic divisions within Kosovo. Joseph Trevithick contributed to this article. Contact the author: oliver@thewarzone.com A powerful image of a Jewish prayer book damaged with a bullet hole was released as evidence Wednesday in the death penalty trial of the man accused of killing 11 worshippers at a Pittsburgh synagogue in 2018. The photo was entered into evidence Tuesday during testimony by Jeffrey Myers, the rabbi of the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburghs Squirrel Hill neighborhood. In the Jewish faith, damaged prayer books are traditionally buried as a sign of respect, he testified. But Myers decided to keep this prayer book, known as a siddur. Its a witness to the horror of the day, he testified. One day when Im not there, this book tells a story that needs to be told. That and other images were released publicly the same day several survivors of the shooting testified about their split-second actions and decisions during the attack. Robert Bowers, 50, has pleaded not guilty to 63 charges, including obstruction of free exercise of religious beliefs resulting in death and hate crimes resulting in death. The mass shooting was part of a broader rise in antisemitism in recent years. A year afterward, a 19-year-old killed one person and wounded three others at the Chabad of Poway synagogue in California violence exemplifying the ongoing threat to American Jewry. A defense attorney for Robert Bowers said in opening statements they did not dispute that he was responsible for the mass killing. - David Klug The photo of the damaged prayer book was one of a number of photo exhibits released to the public Wednesday morning, including images of the congregants present the day of the shooting and images of the synagogue after the attack. One exhibit shows crime scene tape and drops of blood on the floor of one part of the synagogue. Another exhibit shows police body camera video of Myers exiting the synagogue and passing a line of police officers while clutching his yarmulke on his head. Myers examined the book in court and noted that there is a stamp on it reading, Tree of Life Congregation. He testified that during the attack he fled the chapel and called 911, and he also prayed and thought of his ancestors. I thought about the history of my people, how weve been persecuted and hunted and slaughtered for centuries, and how all of them must have felt at the moments before their death, he said. Survivor testifies about hiding in a closet In testimony Wednesday, a survivor of the shooting recounted how she and other congregants were ushered into a closet to hide from the gunman. Carol Black, 71, the sister of victim Richard Gottfried, said she was in the downstairs sanctuary at the synagogue when she and other congregants heard several loud sounds that they eventually realized was gunfire. She, Melvin Wax, and Barry Werber hid in a closet behind a set of doors and remained silent as the gunshots became louder. None of us were talking, Black said. At first (the noise) was coming from upstairs and then it got louder and that indicated to me that it was closer to me, closer to where I was. She said she heard the gunman shoot Wax twice, and his head fell inches from her feet. Wax, an 87-year-old accountant, was among those who were killed. I saw a shadow of somebody as they entered just between the crack of the door and the jamb, she said, saying she assumed the shadow was the shooter. Despite the terror, Black said she remained calm. If I remained calm, I would not give my position away, she said. Werber, 81, testified Wednesday that he tried to remain as quiet as possible while the gunman was just outside. He called 911 and in a quiet voice told them about the shooting. Tree of Life synagogueshootingman with an automatic weapon, he said in the call, which was played in court. A man was just shot right outside the door, please get the police here immediately. My throat was closed, I was very quiet, he testified. I didnt want anyone outside the room to hear me. After a period of time, police came into the building to rescue them and they rushed out of the building and had to step past Wax. I had to step over Mel to get out of the space It was very hard to look at him laying on the floor, Black said. I quietly to myself said goodbye to him and followed the officers. 75-year-old says he went toward the gunfire Daniel Leger, who was wounded in the shooting, testified he and fellow congregant Dr. Jerry Rabinowitz heard gunfire and went toward it. Jerry looked at me and said, Oh, Dan. We knew instinctively what we needed to do was to try to do something to help, and so we both moved in the direction of the gunfire, Leger said. Leger, 75, worked as a nurse and Rabinowitz was a physician, so they felt that something dreadful was happening and we both trained to be helpers (and) wanted to help. Leger was shot in the stomach and lied down on the stairs, unable to move and nearing death. He began to pray and reflected on the blessings of his life, he testified. I reviewed my life. I thought about the wonder of it all, the beauty of life, the happiness I had experienced through my life the joy of having two beautiful sons, he testified. I prayed for forgiveness for those who I had wronged through my life. After 40 minutes, Leger was carried out of the synagogue into an ambulance and suffered serious injuries. He now uses a colostomy bag and has nerve damage in the left side of his body, he said. Rabinowitz was killed. The defense didnt cross examine any of the five witnesses Wednesday, and hasnt questioned a total of nine witnesses so far. What happened at opening statements The prosecution on Tuesday laid out in graphic detail Bowers actions during the attack and highlighted his many comments before, during and after the shooting expressing his hatred for Jews. Once he entered the synagogue the defendant began to hunt, he moved from room to room, upstairs and downstairs looking for Jewish worshippers to kill, said prosecutor Soo C. Song. The defense said there was no dispute that Bowers was responsible for the mass killing but offered a legalistic defense that relied on a close read of the hate crimes charges. Attorney Judy Clarke argued his motivation in the attack was based on his hatred for the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, a nonprofit that helps refugees, rather than his hatred of the Jewish religion. Does the fact that he entered a synagogue to kill Jews establish that he was motivated by their actual or perceived religion, or was he motivated by the fact that he believed that these individuals supported HIAS? she said. Still, Clarke made repeated references to this phase of the case, a sign that the defense expects the case ultimately will proceed to the penalty phase, when the jury will decide whether to sentence him to death. The charges stem from the heinous shooting in which Bowers allegedly stormed into the Tree of Life synagogue on the morning of Saturday, October 27, 2018. The synagogue was hosting three congregations, Tree of Life, Dor Hadash and New Light, for weekly Shabbat services. Armed with three handguns and an AR-15 rifle, he shot out a large window near the entrance to the synagogue and then opened fire on congregants, according to the indictment. He was shot multiple times by police and ultimately surrendered and was taken into custody. Authorities have said they believe he acted alone. The mass shooting left 11 people dead and six wounded, including four police officers who responded to the scene. Among the dead were a 97-year-old great-grandmother and a couple who were married at the synagogue more than 60 years earlier. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Shrinking is normal, but experts say it's important to get bone density checks to ensure there isn't an underlying issue. Shrinking is normal, but experts say it's important to get bone density checks to ensure there isn't an underlying issue. It seems that everything shifts as you age. You may notice you get wrinkles, your hair turns gray and even your height changes in other words, you shrink. Aging is not a random thing that happens, its very predictable, it happens to us all. And rather than just luck and some bad things that might happen to you, there is a whole biology that has been evolving in identifying why all these changes happen to our body, said Dr. Douglas Kiel, a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and the director of the Musculoskeletal Research Center and senior scientist at Marcus Institute for Aging Research in Massachusetts. Losing some height is one of those changes. But how much you shrink once you hit mid-life depends on a few factors (the exact amount that you might shrink isnt 100% agreed on). Kiel said shrinking less than an inch is normal and any more than that may be indicative of underlying issues (more on that below). Dr. James Harrop, the chief of the division of spine and peripheral nerve surgery at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, added that men lose about .02% of their height per year while women lose .1% per year on average. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences reports men shrink about 1 inch in their lifetime while women shrink 2 inches. While the amount may vary depending on the person, shrinking overall is usually normal. Below, experts explain why it happens and when you may need to be concerned. Your muscles become weaker, which makes it harder to hold your spine upright. So, one reason that height might be reduced is that you are curved forward, Kiel said, explaining that people tend to hunch as they get older. If you stretched yourself out, your height might not be as much reduced, but since you cant stand up totally straight ... you measure a lower height. This curvature is referred to as kyphosis, he said. Every one of us has some variation of this in our spine, but with aging, its often observed that the kyphosis, that slight curvature, becomes more pronounced. Muscles are required to keep your spine straight, and usually you lose those muscles as you have more birthdays. You lose muscle fibers with aging, so the ability to extend your spine and look straight and tall are not as good as they were when you were younger. And so that kyphosis is more pronounced, and therefore your height is reduced, Kiel said. Bone loss is another contributing factor to shrinkage. Part of what makes up our height are vertebral bodies, which are part of the vertebrae that make up our spine. If you are losing bone as you age, sometimes the vertebral bodies ... actually are crushed, Kiel noted. This means they get less tall, making us less tall, too. And sometimes these vertebral bodies actually break. Its called a vertebral fracture, and a vertebral fracture reduces the height of the vertebral bodies, Kiel added. You have a lot of vertebral bodies in your body going from the lower part to the middle, all the way up to your skull, and if one or more of those vertebral bodies loses its height even though its only one small part of the spine you can lose height, Kiel said. You may be completely unaware if you do have these fractures, Harrop said. Two-thirds of people with vertebral fractures do not feel any pain. You may also just think you pulled something in your back, according to both experts. People with osteoporosis, which is a loss of bone, tend to have more vertebral fractures, Kiel noted. Harrop said that when he sees someone with osteoporosis and a spine problem come into his office, he gets nervous because if you have a fracture and you dont get treated, you have a 30% chance of having another fracture within one year. And more and more fractures cause angulation in the spine, resulting in shrinking, Harrop noted. As you age, it can be harder for your muscles to hold your spine up straight. As you age, it can be harder for your muscles to hold your spine up straight. The discs in your spine lose height as well. Youve likely heard of a slipped disc (or maybe youve even had one). Those discs, which are known as intervertebral discs, are another piece of the shrinking puzzle. A disc is really a shock absorber or a pillow between two bones, said Dr. Raz Winiarsky, an orthopedic surgeon at Brooklyn Premier Orthopedics. And, essentially, when over time, starting in middle-age or actually starting a little earlier, like in your 40s, the amount of water in the disc ... dissipates or dries out. This drying out shrinks the discs and leads to less disc height, which can impact your height. According to Harrop, by the time youre 60 or 70, your disc can go from about 10 to 13 millimeters in height to 1 to 2 millimeters due to disc degeneration. Now, you do that with your 23 discs, and you can obviously see thats a significant loss of height, Harrop said. So, is there a way to stop this from happening? If I could give one public service announcement, [its that] everyone ... should get their bone density checked and they should be treated if they have osteoporosis, Harrop stressed. A bone density test wont totally stop you from shrinking but will alert you of any problems that could exacerbate it. When people reach age 65, Medicare pays for a bone density test, which is a way of quantifying how much bone you still have left and ... some of the machines can have the patient roll on his or her side and get a side view of vertebral bodies to see if there are any of those compression fractures, Kiel added. You may be eligible to get a bone density test before 65; for example, Kiel said that many women are encouraged to do so during menopause. Additionally, Harrop said if you have a spine problem like scoliosis, its that much more important to get your bone density checked. Talk to your primary care physician to see if you qualify. Whats more, a healthy lifestyle can help slow down any shrinkage as well. If you really want to not lose bulk and try to ... actually maintain your bone density, the best thing in the world is to exercise, Winiarsky said. Its never too late to start, but the best thing is to have a life of healthy exercise where you do it a half an hour a day. This will help you maintain the strength of your bones and the strength of the muscles that help you hold your spine up. Shrinking is not a disease, but it ... could be an indicator that some things are changing in your body that potentially could be slowed down, Kiel said. You have muscle, you have discs, you have bones, and theyre all contributing to shrinking, and if you shrink a lot it could mean more losses are occurring in those three contributors. Related... KABUL, May 31 (Xinhua) -- For Nawid, his whole day is about supporting his family by peddling on the streets with no idea what a "normal" childhood should look like. June 1 is marked in different parts of the globe as International Children's Day to highlight the rights of children and promote their well-being. However, in war-torn Afghanistan, countless children like Nawid, unaware of their rights, have been working on the streets from dusk until dawn to support their impoverished families. "I want the U.S. government to unfreeze Afghanistan assets, pave the way for creating job opportunities because the prices of everything is sky-rocketing in the bazaar," Nawid, 12, in hushed tones told Xinhua. As the eldest son and breadwinner for his four-member family, Nawid sells shopping bags to earn meager money and buy a few naan, Afghan traditional flatbread for his mother, younger sister and brother. "I go to sell shopping bags every day. If I earn some money, I will bring naan home," Nawid, a sixth-grader, said sheepishly. Recalling his miseries, Nawid said he could hardly buy new clothes for himself and always is busy supporting his mother and family. Dreaming of completing his studies and feeling saddened by the loss of his father, Nawid recalled that his father used to bring everything from the bazaar to his family, but everything changed with his death. Thousands of Afghans had been killed or maimed during the U.S.-initiated 20-year war on Afghanistan launched with the excuse of fighting terrorism. Nawid is among countless Afghan children who have lost their parents. The United States has frozen more than 9 billion U.S. dollars worth of assets of the war-ravaged country's central bank, further worsening the already poverty-stricken nation. Nawid's mother Laila, 39, described her living condition as being extremely painful, saying her children need food but feeding them properly is very difficult, as she hasn't been able to provide square meals for months. "The prices of basic goods were low in the past. The price of 1 kg of cooking oil was 50 Afghani but now it costs 150 Afghani (about 1.7 U.S. dollars), and the prices of flour and rice have also gone up. We always go to the bazaar and return home empty-handed," Laila said. Likewise, Nawid's friend Assadullah also works on the streets to support his poor family. "I work on the streets from morning to evening and hardly earn 10 to 20 afghani to buy naan. We have no meat, no clothes and nothing at home," eight-year-old Assadullah told Xinhua. Living in a makeshift camp on the outskirts of Kabul, Assadullah, a second-grader in public school, dreams of becoming a medical doctor in the future. The head of the makeshift camp, Taws Khan, 55, expressed his fears about growing poverty, explaining that despite a drop in the price of flour, poor families cannot afford it. Khan also blamed the sanctions imposed by the United States on Afghanistan as the root cause of poverty in his country, saying the sanctions have entirely destroyed Afghans' living conditions. "The money belongs to Afghan people, including so very many orphaned children," Khan said. (1 U.S. dollar equals 87.5 Afghani). I was among the many millions of people shocked and terrified at the news that another school shooting had taken place in late March. But this one hit closer to home. Im a Tennessean and a mom, and I was taking my 1-year-old son to the doctor in Nashville on March 27 when a shooter attacked The Covenant School. I am also a law-abiding gun owner and I believe the Second Amendment is our last and final line for self-defense. I dont want our emotional reaction to this and similar tragedies to prompt passage of knee-jerk legislation that strips us further of our rights. Or, as is the case with Gov. Bill Lees proposed mental health protection order, leaves those in need of help more vulnerable and more likely alone. Lee recently announced a special legislative session to convene in August in hopes of passing an extreme risk protection order, sometimes called a "red flag" law in other states. As Tennesseans, we cannot let this happen. The order of protection is being marketed as common sense and, on first glance, it may appear that way. But a further examination of what it actually does and its potential repercussions shows it could be downright dangerous. Counterpoint: Gun reform is possible in Tennessee if we let research and policy guide us | Opinion Hear more Tennessee Voices: Get the weekly opinion newsletter for insightful and thought provoking columns. Citizens could be subject to frivolous complaints The purpose of the proposal is to remove firearms from the possession of a person who may be dangerous to themselves or others, but there is no way to ensure that all of the firearms are actually removed, and there is no provision in the proposal that offers mental health services to the person affected. That means we have a person who is so unstable a judge has ordered removal of their firearms, then we have police coming to their home and demanding these firearms, but law enforcement doesnt know if they have one firearm or many. Say, for example, this person hands over one or two but still has three. Then this person is left alone and given no services to help him get better. This will only further agitate someone on the brink, and it doesnt even guarantee theyre unarmed. The proposal also has little protection against frivolous complaints. While the subject of the order is required to be notified and permitted to appear in their own defense at the hearing, there is no safeguard to ensure they are actually notified. A notice could be sent to them or posted on their door, but if they are out of town or dont see it for whatever reason, they have no way of knowing a hearing is being held. Furthermore, when presented with any evidence of a persons instability, why would a judge ever deny the motion? Its much safer for the judge to grant the order than it is to turn it down. This creates a scenario where someone may or may not be aware that a hearing about stripping their Second Amendment rights is imminent, and at the hearing, the judge has every incentive to grant the order regardless of if it is warranted. Sign up for Latino Tennessee Voices newsletter:Read compelling stories for and with the Latino community in Tennessee. Sign up for Black Tennessee Voices newsletter:Read compelling columns by Black writers from across Tennessee. Tennessee's ranks poorly in mental health access This proposal is nothing but gun control. If it is being used properly and the subject of the order really is about to do something dangerous, that person should be taken for a mental health evaluation and hospitalized if need be. JP Staggs Certainly, they need more than a police officer confiscating one of their firearms. If there is evidence that a person has committed a crime, they should be dealt with in the criminal justice system. Lastly, there should be safeguards against frivolous accusations and this law being abused. The number of mental health facilities in the U.S. has declined significantly over the decades. That old system was dismantled because it had many problems, but nothing was ever created in its place. We have to give families who are worried about their loved ones access to the help and care they need. We have to take dangerous people off the streets. We have to enact laws that do more than maybe remove firearms from those who are not fit to own them. We have to help them. The Covenant School shooter was reportedly very ill. Their family was worried about them. This order of protection would not have stopped the killer from committing this shooting because the family didnt even know about the firearms. Had help and needed care been available, this may tragedy might have been avoided. Tennessee ranks 45th of 50 states and the District of Columbia in access to mental health care, according to Mental Health America. If the governor is serious about stopping shootings like these, he should focus less on ideas that cannot effectively be enforced and are easily abused, and more on getting troubled people and families the resources they need. JP Staggs lives in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee and is a gun owner, pro-gun advocate and member of the NRA. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee's special legislative session worries gun owners like me Last Sunday, Venetians and visitors alike woke up to a strange scene, something that appeared to belong more in the Emerald City of Oz than the Italian metropolis: Venices Grand Canal was green. While the cause of the verdant channel was not originally known, city officials have now identified fluorescein, a chemical most often used in underwater construction, as the reasoning, reports CNN. However, its still unclear why or how the substance made its way into the water. Residents first noticed a fluorescent green patch near the Rialto Bridge on Sunday, which appeared to spread as the day went on. Luca Zaia, the governor of the Veneto region, tweeted at the time that the government had called an urgent meeting to identify the source and that police were investigating the matter. Before determining that it was fluorescein in the water, multiple theories had circulated online, including some blaming algae growth as the cause. TOPSHOT-ITALY-ENVIRONMENT-VENICE Photo: Stringer/Getty Images Fluorescein is not toxic, but its appearance raises questions. No danger of pollution from the fluorescent green patch that appeared yesterday morning in the waters of Venice, but the risk of emulation is worrying, Zaia later tweeted on Monday morning. Unfortunately Venice has become the stage for actions far beyond the lines: adequate and strong responses are needed. Though no group has claimed responsibility, some have speculated that climate activists were involved in the incident. According to CNN, police are investigating a series of leads, and further test results from the water are expected later this week. Many have drawn parallels between last weeks event with an occurrence that took place 55 years prior. In 1968, Nicolas Garcia Uriburu, an artist from Argentina, dyed the Grand Canal green during the Venice Biennale to promote ecological consciousness. Uriburu had also used fluorescein to carry out his work, which was not officially part of the cultural festivals programming. Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest More Great Stories From AD Testing on a mysterious patch of bright green water in Venice's Grand Canal over the weekend revealed the strange color was caused by a non-toxic substance often used for detecting leaks, local officials said. The green water was first noticed by the Rialto bridge, but it gradually spread because of the tide, the Regional Agency for the Environment in Venice (ARPAV) said. ARPAV officials have not said where the fluorescein that dyed the water on Sunday came from. The agency said there would be additional testing. The governor of the Veneto region, Luca Zaia, said on Facebook that he was concerned about the risks of copycats trying to dye the canal. Water in the Grand Canal in Venice was green on May 28, 2023. The Italian police started to investigate the origin of the liquid. / Credit: Italian Firefighters (Vigili del Fuoco) / Handout/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images Sunday was not the canal's first time being green. Argentine artist Nicolas Garcia Uriburu dyed the water green in 1968 as part of a stunt to promote ecological awareness. He used fluorescein, according to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Garcia Uriburu later dyed the East River in New York, the Seine in Paris and the Rio de la Plata in Buenos Aires. While no environmentalist group has claimed responsibility for Sunday's incident, there have been other, similar actions in Italy in recent weeks. Earlier in May, environmental activists poured black liquid into the water of Rome's Trevi Fountain as part of a climate change awareness protest. Veteran once imprisoned for being gay speaks out Harlan Crow refuses to go into detail on his ties to Clarence Thomas What role does Congress play in managing political conflict? Wichita County prosecutor who is a conservative Republican to announce bid for judge Dobie Kosub A longtime prosecutor for Wichita County plans to announce his candidacy for 89th District judge Wednesday morning in Wichita Falls. First Assistant District Attorney Dobie Kosub will officially announce his bid for the judgeship at 10 a.m. Wednesday at The Forum, according to a media release Tuesday from his campaign. The public is invited to the campaign event at 2120 Speedway Avenue. As a conservative Republican, I will be a judge who shares your values," Kosub said in the media release. "I am committed to the fair and impartial administration of justice and upholding our constitutional rights." In addition, he said that after a fair trial when it is justified, he won't hesitate to stack sentences for those who harm children. Kosub has prosecuted many high profile criminal cases over the years, often including those involving sexual crimes committed against children. For instance, he faced off with high-dollar defense attorneys paid with lotto winnings and imported from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to win convictions of Jason Wayne Carlile for child sexual assault. Kosub previously ran for 30th District judge in Wichita County in the Republican primary in March 2018. He was defeated by Jeff McKnight, who now sits on the bench in 30th District Court. The first day to file for a place on next year's primary ballot is Nov. 11, 2023. Republican primaries are set for March 5, 2024. The last day to register to vote in primary elections is Feb. 5, 2024. General Election Day is Nov. 5, 2024. But in this red area, the outcome of Republican primaries typically determines the winners in November. No Democrats have announced an intention to run for 89th District judge as of yet. Kosub is running for the post now held by 89th District Judge Charles Barnard. The judge is not running for reelection and plans to retire next year at the end of his second full term. Dobie Kosub, then Wichita County's chief felony prosecutor, speaks during the trial of Jason Wayne Carlile in 78th District Court as shown in this Dec. 11, 2019, file photo. After 22 years as a prosecutor, it is Kosub's honor and privilege to follow in Barnard's footsteps, the media release stated. "With an unwavering commitment to justice and a passion for serving the community, Kosub aims to bring fairness, integrity, and efficiency to the judicial system, according to his campaign announcement. "Both his early years of learning character and small-town values in Luling, Texas, and his time as a prosecutor fighting for justice in Wichita County have prepared him to serve Wichita County as a district judge," according to the media release. "As a prosecutor, Kosub has seen the damage that those who prey upon children and the vulnerable inflict upon our community," the media release stated. He deeply believes a district judge must be willing to administer justice for victims and protect the community, the press release stated. "One of the most important qualities for a judge is his willingness to continually learn the law not only inside the courtroom but outside, so that he can make fair and even-handed rulings," the media release stated. "Kosub will bring the small-town values of humility, honesty, and fairness to the bench," the media release stated. More: The murder case Judge Fudge will never forget from his 10 years on the bench More: Vrana convicted of capital murder in Jason Baum shooting This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Kosub to announce bid for judge's bench in 89th District Court Wildlife officers couldnt get trapped deer out of canal so they called two cowboys Wildlife officers were faced with a challenge of removing two deer from a canal in Arizona, so they called two cowboys for help. Deputies and game wardens corralled the trapped mule deer to an area where they could jump out from the canal on May 22 near Casa Grande, the Arizona Game and Fish Department said in a Facebook post on May 30. But the animals were too exhausted, so they needed some reinforcements in the form of cowboys. The two young cowboys swung their rope and lassoed the animals, allowing officers to pull them inch by inch out of the canal, officials said. They removed the rope from the deer to free them and waited. The cowboys, game wardens, and nature itself seemed to hold their collective breath as the deer regained their senses, officials said. But before everyone knew it, the deer galloped away and into the desert, officials said. You never know what the day will bring you as a game warden, but rest assured it will always be an adventure, officials said in the Facebook post. Casa Grande is about 50 miles south of Phoenix. Deer found neck-deep in thick sludge in Ohio dumpster. Then rescuers rush to help Yellowstone tourist tries to help young bison but it led to its death, rangers say Mom and son shot bear cubs on private land, Oregon officials say. Now they must pay Keanu Reeves performs with Dogstar at the 2023 BottleRock Napa Valley festival. (Tim Mosenfelder / Getty Images) Keanu Reeves traded his "Bill and Ted" air guitar for a real one over the weekend, reuniting with his alternative rock trio Dogstar in Napa Valley for the group's first performance in more than 20 years. Dogstar formed in the early 1990s with Reeves as its bass player. Largely riding Reeves' movie stardom, the band put out two albums, toured and performed on "Live With Regis and Kathie Lee" and Jay Leno's "The Tonight Show," before giving a last performance in 2002 in Japan. After the band declared, "We're back," on its Instagram account in July, Dogstar hit the stage on Saturday for a 12-song set at the 2023 BottleRock Napa Valley festival. As frontman Bret Domrose cued up their first song, with actor Robert Mailhouse taking his seat behind the drums, the star of "John Wick" and "The Matrix" could be seen onstage jumping up and down, rocking his head and long hair back and forth, according to fan footage of the performance. At some points between songs, Reeves smoldered and mouthed to the crowd, as fans screamed and yelled, "We love you," and "Welcome back, Keanu!" "Today was like our first kind of foray out," Reeves told the Napa Valley Register, as Dogstar is preparing to release new music. "The band wants to play. We have a record, so we're just kind of figuring out the best way to marry those two things." Domrose said the reunion "just organically happened" after the "really long break," according to the San Francisco Chronicle. And even during their hiatus, band members remained in contact, occasionally jamming with one another in between Reeves' film shoots. But Reeves said he hadn't intended for his band to play second fiddle to his acting career. It wasn't a matter of just "make time for it," Reeves told Billboard last week. Its something thats part of my life. The band members shared that they had an album in the works, with one of Dogstar's songs already done. Yet with several projects on the horizon for the "Point Break" star such as a possible "Constantine" sequel and Aziz Ansari's big-screen directorial debut, "Good Fortune" the band had to move fast. I think all three of us just said, Well, if were going to do this, lets make a record, Reeves said in the Billboard interview. Domrose added that making the song happened quickly: We just knew that there was X amount of time, and we needed to make the most of it." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. An American woman who accused US President Joe Biden of sexually assaulting her has flown to Moscow and is seeking Russian citizenship. Speaking to a state-run Russian news outlet, Tara Reade, 59, said she felt safe in the country and wanted to stay. Ms Reade alleged Mr Biden assaulted her while she was working in his congressional office in 1993. He strongly denied her allegation. "Unequivocally it never, never happened," he said. Ms Reade worked as an assistant to Mr Biden when he was a senator for Delaware. She made headlines in 2020 as his presidential campaign was getting under way, when she claimed that he assaulted her in a Capitol Hill corridor when she was 29. She accused him of forcing her against a wall and putting his hands under her shirt and skirt. "When I got off the plane in Moscow, for the first time in a very long time I felt safe, and I felt heard and felt respected," The Guardian newspaper quotes Ms Reade as saying during an interview with Sputnik. She said she left the US after a Republican politician told her she was in physical danger. "[I'd] like to apply for citizenship in Russia, from the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin... I do promise to be a good citizen," Ms Reade said, adding that she hoped to keep her US citizenship. Ms Reade was one of several women who came forward in 2019 and 2020 to accuse Mr Biden of inappropriate touching, hugging or kissing. She said she had filed a complaint, although no record of this has been found and it is unclear if her claim was formally investigated. A spokesperson for Mr Biden said he believed women "have a right to be heard" but that the alleged incident "absolutely did not happen". tara reade The woman who accused Joe Biden of sexual assault during the 2020 presidential race has appeared in Moscow and asked Vladimir Putin for Russian citizenship. Speaking from Moscow, Tara Reade claimed that her life was in danger and that she was facing imprisonment after she was called a Russian agent following her accusations against the US president. Sitting alongside Maria Butina, a Russian politician and former spy who was arrested and imprisoned in Washington in 2018, Ms Reade said: I just really so appreciate Maria and everyone whos been giving me [protection] at a time when its been very difficult to know if Im safe or not. I just didnt want to walk home and walk into a cage or be killed, which is basically my two choices. The 59-year-old said that she has always loved Russia and does not see Russia as an enemy. She said she had one large request and added: Id like to apply for citizenship in Russia, from the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin. Ms Butina, who tried to infiltrate US conservative groups to promote the Kremlins agenda, promised to ask Putin to fast track her citizenship, local media reported. BREAKING: A Statement and Press Conference from Tara Reade @ReadeAlexandra https://t.co/BixNvE1TGs Tara Reade (@ReadeAlexandra) May 30, 2023 Ms Reade hit the headlines in early 2020 after claiming that Mr Biden sexually assaulted her in a Capitol Hill corridor in August 1993, when she was 29. At the time of her allegation, Mr Biden was building up his presidential campaign against Donald Trump, who has also faced accusations of sexual abuse and rape. Mr Biden denied her accusation. It is not true. Im saying unequivocally it never, never happened, he said. She told Sputnik media group that she had arrived in Russia on a holiday and had decided to stay after an unnamed Republican politician told her she was in physical danger. However, she said: When I got off the plane in Moscow, for the first time in a very long time I felt safe, and I felt heard and felt respected. I do promise to be a good citizen, she said, adding that she wanted to keep her US citizenship as well. I felt that while [the 2024] election is gearing up and theres so much at stake, Im almost better off here and just being safe. My dream is to live in both places, but it may be that I only live in this place and thats OK. Tara Reade and Joe Biden Ms Reade claimed that she filed a complaint after the alleged incident involving Mr Biden. No record of it has been found. However, her ex-husband mentioned that she had complained of sexual harassment while working in Mr Bidens office in a 1996 court document record. It is not clear if her allegations have ever been formally investigated. 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. Woman who vanished on road trip like Gabby Petito is found alive A 33-year-old Tennessee woman who went missing earlier this month while road-tripping with her boyfriend across the US has made contact with her family. Nikki Alcaraz is now confirmed to be safe, authorities said. She had been travelling in her black Jeep Wrangler with her boyfriend Tyler Stratton and pet dog in Cheatham County to visit family in Orange County, California. Her disappearance had sparked fears of domestic violence and been likened to the case of Gabby Petito, a young woman who was killed by her fiance during a road trip across the US, after the police had pulled the couple over having received reports that Mr Stratton had assaulted Ms Alcaraz. Officers let them go without pressing criminal charges after Mr Stratton claimed he had also been hit. Ms Alcaraz who also goes by Nikki Cunningham, was reportedly spotted in a California Walmart before she made contact with her family. On Tuesday, Redding Police said in a statement: The Redding Police Department has been in contact with the Moriarty, New Mexico Police Department and confirmed Nikki is no longer considered a missing person. Earlier, Ms Alcarazs sister, Toni Alcaraz told WKRN that she hadnt heard from her since she received a text message on 9 May saying she was planning to continue to California. The sister said that she spoke to Ms Alcaraz after the alleged assault and that she was crying and upset. Her eye was already turning black and you could tell she was beat up pretty bad, Toni Alcaraz told the news site. Photos released by the Cheatham County Sheriffs Department showed Ms Alcaraz with a black left eye after the incident. According to an incident report, Mr Stratton claimed he had also been hit, and Torrance County sheriffs deputies observed blood coming from his mouth. Neither Mr Stratton nor Ms Alcaraz wanted to press charges, and she was given a ride to Moriarty. Ms Alcaraz was previously thought to have been last seen on the morning of 6 May at a Super 8 motel in the small town of Moriarty, New Mexico, about 40 miles east of Albuquerque. A license plate reader picked up Ms Alcarazs Jeep near Flagstaff, Arizona earlier this month, but police said her cellphone was out of service and untraceable. Nikki Alcaraz, right, vanished while travelling from Tennessee to California with her boyfriend Tyler Stratton, left (Cheatham County Sheriffs Office) Then a Cheatham County deputy told News 2 that she was seen at a Walmart in Redding, California, on 27 May. A photo released by the county District Attorney General Ray Crouch shows her selling her phone at an ecoATM. In September 2021, Gabby Petitos remains were found in the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming after she disappeared on a road trip with her boyfriend Brian Laundrie. The couple was pulled over in Utah by officers from the Moab Police Department on 12 August after receiving reports that Laundrie had struck Petito. They were allowed to continue separately after Laundrie claimed he had been hit by Petito. An independent review of the domestic assault incident found the officers had made several mistakes, and should have been classified as a domestic assault. Laundrie later shot himself in the head and left a suicide note confessing to killing Petito. Petitos family are suing the Moab Police Department for failing to follow the law and protect her during the traffic stop. Prison Female prisoners are much more violent than men in jails, according to Ministry of Justice (MoJ) figures. The rate of assaults in female jails rose by 21 per cent last year, to 419 per 1,000 women prisoners - the highest since records began more than 20 years ago. This was 65 per cent higher than the rate in male prisons, where there were 255 assaults per 1,000 inmates. This represented only a marginal rise of 3 per cent on the rate in 2021. Prison watchdogs said the level of violence was alarming and that women with ill mental health had been sent to jails because of the shortage of places to treat them in hospitals or in the community. They also cited the increased use of lock-ups of prisoners after Covid, where women could spend as long as 23 hours a day in their cells. In a report, the independent monitoring boards raised concerns over mentally ill women being sent to prison as a place of safety. It cited the cases of two women in HMP Peterborough, a closed female prison, who were so violent it required four officers to unlock their cells. Pia Sinha, who oversaw the womens prison estate at the MoJ before becoming chief executive of the Prison Reform Trust (PRT), said: A lot of these women could be diverted to getting treatment in the community. But because there are no beds, they are coming into custody instead. That is importing a whole lot of vulnerability into the womens estate. As well as women with more complex mental health problems and drug abuse problems, she said there was also a trade in prescription medicines in womens jails that could spark bullying and violence. Staffing pressures and a lack of a consistent regime are exacerbating and triggering violence and self-harm, said Ms Sinha, a former prison governor who made her name by turning around HMP Liverpool, once branded the UKs worst jail. Prisons need to go back to basics where women are routinely let out of their cells for a set level of time and have a consistent regime with investment in rehabilitation and resettlement. Rate of assaults doubles The MoJ data, uncovered by Inside Time, a prison newspaper, showed the rate of assaults by women per 1,000 prisoners had doubled from 195 in 2015 to 419 per 1,000 last year. The rate for men has only grown slightly since 2015, rising from 242 per 1,000 to 255 per 1,000. Female prisoners remain less likely to commit serious assaults but the gap closed last year, with 25 serious assaults per 1,000 prisoners by women inmates, compared with 30 per 1,000 by men. The figures follow warnings last year by the Conservative-led House of Commons justice committee that ministers had failed to make enough progress on developing alternatives to jail for women. Women in the justice system have distinct needs and worse outcomes than men, previous official reports have found. They are more likely than men to have specific vulnerabilities that drive offending, including experiences of trauma and abuse, and pose less of a serious risk to the public. A key objective of the Governments female offender strategy, which was released in 2018, is to have fewer women in prison. Overall numbers have fallen, from 3,958 in February 2017 to 3,219 in July 2022. However, according to MoJ predictions first published in November, the adult female prison population is expected to be 4,300 in July 2025, up by a third from 3,170 in July 2021. 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. Todd Rutherford, the attorney for Cyrus Carmack-Beltons family, issued a statement Wednesday about the 14-year-olds killing, saying its something that the Black community has experienced for generations. Carmack-Belton, an eighth grade student at Summit Parkway Middle School, was shot and killed Sunday night near a Columbia gas station on Parklane Road while trying to run away. The stores owner has been charged with murder. The owners of the gas station incorrectly suspected the teen of shoplifting, according to the Richland County Sheriffs Department. At one point Carmack-Belton removed four water bottles from a cooler, Sheriff Leon Lott said, but he put them back. Following an argument that began inside the store, Carmack-Belton took off running. While running, he fell, and was shot once in the back by one of the owners, the sheriffs department said. Lott said there is no evidence that Carmack-Belton stole anything from the store. Rick Chow, the 58-year-old owner of the gas station, has been charged with murder, the sheriffs department said. Here is Rutherfords statement: When Cyrus Carmack-Beltons mother sent this picture to me I had to do a double take because he looked so much like my middle son. What happened to him wasnt an accident: its something that the Black community has experienced for generations: being racially profiled, then shot down in the street like a dog. Words cant describe the pain I feel having known this family for decades. One beacon of hope is seeing the resilience of the Black community as they wrap their arms around this family that has joined the club that no Black family ever wants to be a part of. As our firm moves forward with this case, we are working to ensure that justice prevails and work towards building a safer community for all residents of Columbia and the greater South Carolina area, regardless of race. This is why I cant help but fight to ensure history isnt whitewashed or forgotten. This isnt an anomaly, but I know America can be better. And that is what were fighting for. Because no family should have to deal with this in 2023. Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. Theyre comfy like pajamas but polished like work trousers. Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland It happened in the Luxor International Airport: Two travel editors I was flying with to Cairo walked in wearing the same pair of travel pants. They were the coolest ones Id seen all summer. They were sleek and put-together but somehow lightweight and wrinkle-free aka the perfect travel uniform. Are those the Aday Turn It Up Pants? one said to the other. Spoiler alert: They were, and all the editors we know seem to have them. I was convinced I needed a pair. When I returned from Egypt, I ordered the high-waisted, slim-fit pants in black to complete my travel wardrobe. If theyre good enough for these professional travelers who spend their lives on the go, I trust that theyre good enough for this frequent flier, too. Aday To buy: aday.com, $180 As soon as I tried them on, I saw what made the wrinkle-free, cigarette-style pants so special. Theyre the rare, magical type of pants that look polished but still feel luxuriously comfy. They reminded me of my favorite hiking joggers since theyre made of a quick-drying, water-resistant nylon elastane blend. And yet with their high-quality tailoring and elasticized waistband creating a flattering fit, they look like work trousers that I could wear to a meeting. Talk about major versatility. So yes, they looked great. But could they stand up to a long travel day? I tested the Turn It Up Pants out on a 10-hour travel day on two flights, one to Miami and one to Charleston; I wore them crossing the airports, climbing stairs, reaching for my bag in the trunk of the cab, and walking all around town, and I have to say that Ive never felt more comfortable while looking so put-together. At times, I couldnt believe I wasnt wearing pajamas. Aday To buy: aday.com, $180 Comfort was just the tip of the iceberg. The biggest bonus is that they did not once wrinkle not when I sat in them for hours on the plane, and not even after I packed them up in my suitcase for a few days. Find me another pair of pants that can do that. During my trip, I also loved how easy the pants were to dress up or down. I wore them with a blouse and comfy flats for a nice dinner; I wore them with an open white button-up, t-shirt, tank, and my trusty white sneakers to the airport. As far as Im concerned, theyd be appropriate for almost any occasion. When I found out these were machine-washable, I was convinced there was nothing these pants cant do. I kept thinking, whats the catch? But they just kept showing off: They have pockets. Theyre also resistant to pilling (up to 100,000 rough touches, according to the brand). Theyre thermoregulating too, so theyre breathable, which means theyre great at keeping you at a cozy temperature whether youre inside or out. Oh, and theyre sustainably made in Italy. While I ordered these in black, the pants come in other versatile neutrals like midnight and moss, in addition to a few limited edition colors that are selling out quickly, like camel. The pants come in womens sizes XS (0-2) to XL (16). I sized up because I wanted a looser fit, and Id recommend that to other travelers who dont like slim-fit pants, too. Aday To buy: aday.com, $180 Ill admit that $180 is steep for a pair of pants, but they seem less expensive when I factor in how many times Ive gotten use out of them. I have worn them at least eight times in the last few months Ive had them, making them the best investment Ive made in my travel wardrobe this year. Plus, Aday offers 15 percent off your first order of $300 or more. Dont just take it from this travel editor, though. Aday customers are also raving about these pants. One said theyre worth the splurge and said theyre so classy and they love that they dont require ironing. Another said they always pack them for work trips, and yet another said they originally bought them for traveling, but once I tried them on I thought of all the everyday activities I could wear them. Perhaps I need another pair The material is so comfortable. They finished by saying, They look very nice on and super chic. Thanks to the Aday Turn It Up Pants, Ive officially called off my search for the perfect travel uniform. If you want a pair of wrinkle-free, quick-drying, and very polished pants for your next flight, I couldnt recommend them more. And, if youre looking for a pair of perfect black travel pants like mine but for less, Ive got you covered. Read on for a handful of lookalikes at Amazon that are all under $40 and sure to be comfy on long travel days. Amazon To buy: amazon.com, $36 Amazon To buy: amazon.com, $37 (originally $78) Amazon To buy: amazon.com, $28 (originally $34) Amazon To buy: amazon.com, $38 Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and well send you our favorite travel products each week. For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Travel & Leisure. (Bloomberg) -- The World Bank agreed on a new partnership with Tunisias government, moving past a chill in ties as alarm grows about the countrys finances. Most Read from Bloomberg The decision on the partnership framework which outlines strategic directions for operational engagements from 2023 to 2027 will go up for approval by the lenders board of directors within weeks, the World Bank said in emailed comments to Bloomberg. The government and the World Bank Group have reviewed and adjusted the strategy, which would now be the basis for the World Bank Group to continue playing its role as a long-term partner for the country and its people, it said. A breakthrough promises much-needed relief to both Tunisian coffers and holders of the countrys distressed debt. Though Tunisia also reached a staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund in October, its directors have yet to review and sign off on the deal. In March, the World Bank temporarily paused some discussions with Tunisia following an outbreak of violence against Black migrants thats been blamed in part on comments made by President Kais Saied. The Tunisian government previously dismissed accusations of racism. New Urgency But urgency for the $50 billion economy has grown to secure backing from abroad. The country has been facing new and severe shortages of bread and fuel. The north African nation has already seen a dramatic slide in the living standards of most of its 12 million population since 2011, when it helped start the Arab Spring revolts. For the fiscal year ending in June, the World Bank is looking at about $500 million of programs for Tunisia, the lenders vice president for the Middle East and North Africa said in an interview last month. World Bank to Back Tunisia, Signals Worry on Egypt Currency The immediate priorities of the World Banks new partnership program include direct support to the hardest-hit families and ensuring access to finance for small and medium-seized enterprises, according to the lender. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. World AI Conference In Shanghai A facial recognition system is demonstrated on a screen at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, China, on Friday, Sept. 2, 2022. Credit - Qilai ShenBloomberg/Getty Images The now-surging development of artificial intelligence will produce medical breakthroughs that save and enhance billions of lives. It will become the most powerful engine for prosperity in history. It will give untold numbers of people, including generations not yet born, powerful tools their ancestors never imagined. But the risks and challenges AI will pose are becoming clear too, and now is the time to understand and address them. Here are the biggest. The health of democracy and free markets depends on access to accurate and verifiable information. In recent years, social media has made it tougher to tell fact from fiction, but advances in AI will unleash legions of bots that seem far more human than those weve encountered to date. Much more sophisticated audio and video deep fakes will undermine our (already diminished) confidence in those who serve in government and those who report the news. In China, and later in its client states, AI will take facial recognition and other tools that can be used for state surveillance to exponentially higher levels of sophistication. This problem extends beyond our institutions, because the production of generative AI, artificial intelligence that generates sophisticated written, visual, and other content in response to prompts from users, isnt limited to big tech companies. Anyone with a laptop and basic programming skills already has access to AI models far more powerful than those that existed even a few months ago and can produce unprecedented volumes of content. This proliferation challenge is about to grow exponentially as millions of people will have their own GPT running on real-time data available on the internet. The AI revolution will empower criminals, terrorists and other bad actors to code malware, create bioweapons, manipulate financial markets, and distort public opinion with startling ease. Artificial intelligence can also exacerbate inequality within societies between small groups with wealth, access, or special skills, as well as among wealthier and poorer nations. Read More: The Only Way to Deal With the Threat from AI AI will create upheaval in the workforce. Yes, technological leaps of the past have mainly created more jobs than theyve killed, and theyve increased general productivity and prosperity, but there are crucial caveats. Jobs created by big workplace tech changes demand different skillsets than those theyve destroyed, and the transition is never easy. Workers must be retrained. Those who cant be retrained must be protected by a social safety net that varies in strength from place to place. Both these problems are expensive, and it will never be easy for governments and private companies to agree on how to share this burden. More fundamentally, the displacement created by AI will happen more broadly and much more quickly than transitions of the past. The turmoil of transition will generate economic, and therefore political, upheaval all over the world. Finally, the AI revolution will also impose an emotional and spiritual cost. Human beings are social animals. We thrive on interaction with others and wither in isolation. Bots will too often replace humans as companions for many people, and by the time scientists and doctors understand the long-term impact of this trend, our deepening reliance on artificial intelligence, even for companionship may be irreversible. This may be the most important AI challenge. The response Challenges like these will demand a global response. Today, artificial intelligence is regulated not by government officials but by technology companies. The reason is simple: You cant make rules for a game you dont understand. But relying on tech firms to regulate their products isnt a sustainable plan. They exist mainly to make a profit, not to protect consumers, nations, or the planet. Its a bit like letting energy companies lead the way on strategies to fight climate change, except that warming and its dangers are already understood in ways that AI risks are not, leaving us without pressure groups that can help force the adoption of smart and healthy policies. TIME illustration So, where are the solutions? Well need national action, global cooperation, and some commonsense cooperation from the US and Chinese governments, in particular. It will always be easier to get well-coordinated policy within national governments than at the international level, but political leaders have their own priorities. In Washington, policymakers have focused mainly on winning a race with China to develop the tech products that will best support 21st century security and prosperity, and that has encouraged them to give tech companies that serve the national interest something close to free rein. Chinese policymakers, fearful that AI tools might undermine their political authority, have regulated much more aggressively. European rule-makers have focused less on security or profits than on the social impact of AI advances. But all will have to make rules in coming years than limit the ability of AI bots to undermine political institutions, financial markets, and national security. That means identifying and tracking bad actors, as well as helping individuals separate real from fake information. Unfortunately, these are big, expensive, and complicated steps that policymakers arent likely to take until theyre faced with AI-generated (but real) crises. That cant happen until discussion and debate on these issues begin. Read More: The Darwinian Case for Worrying About AI Unlike on climate change, the worlds governments havent yet agreed that the AI revolution poses an existential cross-border challenge. Here, the United Nations has a role to play as the only institution with the convening power to develop a global consensus. A UN-led approach to AI will never be the most efficient response, but by building consensus on the nature of the problem and pooling international resources, it will help. By forging agreement on which risks are most likely, most impactful, and emerging most quickly, an AI-focused equivalent to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change can regularize gatherings and the production of State of AI agreements that drill ever closer to the heart of AI-related threats. As with climate change, this process will also have to include active participation of public policy officials, scientists, technologists, private-sector delegates, and individual activists representing most member states to create a COP (conference of the parties) process to address threats to biosecurity, freedom of information, health of the labor force, etc. There could also be an artificial intelligence agency modeled on the International Atomic Energy Agency to help police AI proliferation. That said, theres no way to address the fast-metastasizing risks created by the AI revolution without an infusion of much-needed common sense into relations between the U.S. and China. After all, its the tech competition between the two countries and their lead tech companies that create the greatest risk of war, particularly as AI plays an ever-growing role in military weapons and planning. Beijing and Washington must develop and sustain highest-level conversations about emerging threats to both countries (and the world) and how best to contain them. And they cant wait for an AI version of the Cuban Missile Crisis to force them toward genuine transparency in managing their competition. To create an AI arms control agreement with mutual monitoring and verification, each government must listen not only to one another but to technologists on both sides who understand the risks that must be contained. Far-fetched? Absolutely. The timing is terrible, because these breakthroughs arrive at a time of intense competition between two powerful countries that really dont trust one another. But if Americans and Soviets could build a working arms control infrastructure in the 1970s and 80s, the U.S. and China can build an equivalent for the 21st century. Lets hope they realize they have no choice before a catastrophe makes it unavoidably obvious. Vinesh Phogat (centre) being detained in Delhi: Shortly afterwards she was put on a police bus When a group of top Indian wrestlers were detained by the police during a protest on 28 May, two versions of a selfie taken by one of them began circulating on Twitter. Both pictures show medal winners Vinesh and Sangeeta Phogat sitting inside a bus along with other detained members of the wrestling team, accompanied by three police officers. The images are identical, except that in one of them, the wrestlers appear to be smiling. Indian wrestlers selfie on coach, comparing original and manipulated images Indian wrestlers have been protesting for more than a month after they accused the wrestling federation chief, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, of sexual harassment. Mr Singh is a member of parliament from the governing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has denied the allegations. Detained but not smiling The version with the smiling faces quickly went viral online, with posts carrying the manipulated image claiming the wrestlers were not serious about the protests and that it was all staged. Some BJP leaders and supporters also shared this image, although a few later deleted their tweets. The opposition Indian National Congress accused the ruling party's social media unit, the BJP Information Technology (IT) cell, of tampering with the original image - although there has been no evidence of this. We've confirmed that the image of the smiling wrestlers first appeared online shortly after the original unsmiling image had been posted. A Twitter user shared the first image at 12:31 local time on 28 May - shortly after the wrestlers had been detained by the police. The first manipulated image we've found appeared about 90 minutes later, accompanied by text in Hindi saying that the wrestlers should be ashamed of creating unrest just because they didn't want to participate in the national games. Using freely-available FaceApp software, we were able to generate exactly the same smiling image by using the original version as the initial image. How have the wrestlers responded? Shortly after manipulated image started to go viral, Olympic medal-winning wrestler Bajrang Punia- who has also been protesting in New Delhi - tweeted that the image was fake. We contacted both Vinesh and Sangeeta Phogat to ask why they'd taken the original photo. Sangeeta messaged us to say: "We were uncertain and scared about where they were taking us and we wanted to know who all had been detained along with us." Benjamin Strick, Director of Investigations at Centre for Information Resilience and an open source investigator, says he's been following the wrestlers' protest. He told us that the edited image was "deeply impressive but also scary" as it was easy to believe it was real unless you looked at it closely. "There was a similar smile on all faces, full bright white teeth on all of them. The dimples on the cheeks were also a clue that the image was edited." We searched for previous images of Vinesh and Sangeeta Phogat - neither of them have dimples and their teeth look different. Vinesh Phogat receiving a gold medal at the Commonwealth games 2022 While these small clues do work as red flags raising questions about authenticity, advances in technology are making it harder to differentiate fake from real. "In sophisticated edits, clues are unlikely to provide enough to be 100% sure," says Dr Sophie Nightingale, researching artificial intelligence at the University of Lancaster. Indian fact-checker Pankaj Jain says this is what the future of disinformation looks like. "Until now, the fake ones could be caught by anyone, even a common man. In the future, this would be very difficult." Additional reporting by Benedict Garman Chinese leader Xi Jinping has called on his top national security officials to think about worst case scenarios and prepare for stormy seas, as the ruling Communist Party hardens efforts to counter any perceived internal and external threats. The complexity and difficulty of the national security issues we now face have increased significantly, Xi said Tuesday at a meeting of the partys National Security Commission, state news agency Xinhua reported. We must adhere to bottom-line thinking and worst-case-scenario thinking, and get ready to undergo the major tests of high winds and rough waves, and even perilous, stormy seas, he added. The latest stern instructions from Xi, Chinas most powerful leader in decades, comes as Beijing faces a host of challenges, from a struggling economy to what it sees as an increasingly hostile international environment. In face of what he called a complex and grave situation, Xi said China must speed up the modernization of its national security system and capabilities, with a focus on making them more effective in actual combat and practical use. He also called for China to push ahead with the construction of a national security risk monitoring and early warning system, enhance national security education and improve the management of data and artificial intelligence security. Since coming to power a decade ago, Xi has made national security a key paradigm that permeates all aspects of Chinas governance, experts say. He has expanded the concept of national security to cover everything from politics, economy, defense, culture and ecology to cyberspace. It extends from the deep sea and the polar regions to space, as well as big data and artificial intelligence. Under Xis notion of comprehensive national security, China has introduced a raft of legislation to protect itself against perceived threats, including laws on counter-terrorism, counter-espionage, cybersecurity, foreign non-government organizations, national intelligence and data security. Most recently, it broadened the scope of its already sweeping counter-espionage law from covering state secrets and intelligence to any documents, data, materials or items related to national security and interests. Everything in Xis PRC is national security and there is an intensifying focus on better coordinating security and development, with the security side winning out over the economics side it appears, Bill Bishop, a long-time China observer, wrote in the Sinocism newsletter, referring to China with its official name, the Peoples Republic of China. In Hong Kong, a sweeping national security law was imposed by Beijing to stamp out dissent after huge democracy protests roiled the city. The perception that security has replaced economic growth as Beijings top priority is compounded by multiple recent raids on foreign companies, including American consultancy Bain & Company and due diligence firm Mintz Group. The raids have spooked international businesses, at a time when the Chinese government is trying to woo foreign investment to help revive a slowing economy hampered by three years of zero-Covid restrictions. In March, Chinese authorities detained a Japanese employee of Astellas Pharma in Beijing on suspected espionage the 17th Japanese national to have been detained in China since the counter-espionage law was introduced in 2014. At Tuesdays meeting, Xi said China must proactively shape a secured external environment to better maintain the security of the countrys opening up and promote the deep integration of development and security. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Chinese President Xi Jinping. Kyodo News via Getty Images Chinese President Xi Jinping told his national security team Tuesday that they should prepare for a "worst-case scenario," saying that internal and external threats to the country had increased. Xi, who spoke during a meeting of the Chinese Communist Party's National Security Commission, said the "complexity and difficulty of the national security issues we now face have increased significantly," according to China's state-run Xinhua News Agency. The country must "adhere to bottom-line thinking and worst-case scenario thinking, and get ready to undergo the major tests of high winds and rough waves, and even perilous, stormy seas," Xi added. The Chinese president, who won an unprecedented third term as his country's leader this past March, has been open about the perceived challenges he believes China faces, particularly from the United States. Xi pressed his officials to fast-track the implementation of a national security monitoring system, as well as enhanced national security education and AI security. Since taking power, the strongman, described by some as a dictator, has angled national security as one of China's foremost issues, turning it "into a key paradigm that permeates all aspects of China's governance," according to the Mercator Institute for China Studies. As the rivalry between China and the United States continues to build, both nations have increased their national security efforts. The U.S. has sanctioned a number of Chinese tech companies, while Xi has directly blamed the United States for leading the "Western suppression" of China. While Xi talks about the "worst-case scenario," it is unclear what this could exactly be referring to. It could "include a nuclear war, a devastating war that ruins China's coastal economic belts, [or] Western sanctions on China's energy, finance, and food supply," Xie Maosong, a senior fellow at Beijing's Taihe Institute, told the South China Morning Post. You may also like Air New Zealand to weigh international passengers as part of safety survey Thousands flock to Missouri to see body of nun who died in 2019 Why is Joe Biden running for reelection, anyway? FILE - Yeezy shoes made by Adidas are displayed at Laced Up, a sneaker resale store, in Paramus, N.J., Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022. Some of Adidas' remaining Yeezy shoes are back on sale, Wednesday, May 31, 2023, months after the German sportsware company cut ties with Ye, the rapper formerly known as Kanye West. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig) WASHINGTON (AP) Some of Adidas' remaining Yeezy shoes are back on sale months after the German sportswear company cut ties with Ye, the rapper formerly known as Kanye West. Adidas ended its yearslong partnership with Ye in late October, in light of his antisemitic remarks and other harmful behavior. In the months that followed, the fate of 1.2 billion euros ($1.3 billion) worth of unsold Yeezys remained unknown until earlier this month, when Adidas CEO Bjrn Gulden announced the company would be selling a portion of the remaining inventory and donating some of the proceeds to social justice organizations. The first batch of Adidas' remaining Yeezys went on sale Wednesday. At this time, the sneakers appear to be available through Adidas' app Confirmed, according to the retailer's website. Part of the profits will be donated to organizations including the Anti-Defamation League and the Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change, Adidas says. Wednesday's release marks the first time that Adidas has sold Yeezys since the partnership termination in October. The Yeezy products up for sale will include already-existing designs as well as those that were initiated in 2022 and set to be released in 2023, Adidas previously noted. We believe (selling and donating these Yeezys) is the best solution as it respects the created designs and produced shoes, it works for our people, resolves an inventory problem, and will have a positive impact in our communities," Gulden said in an May 19 statement. At a May 11 annual shareholder meeting, Gulden explained the company made the decision to sell and donate Yeezys after speaking with nongovernmental organizations and groups that were harmed by Yes comments and actions. Some details of Adidas' plans are still unclear including how many Yeezys will eventually go on sale and what portion of sales will be donated. The Associated Press reached out to Adidas for further information on Wednesday. Cutting ties with Ye cost Adidas hundreds of millions of dollars contributing to a loss of 600 million euros ($655 million) in sales for the last three months of 2022, which helped drive the company to a quarterly net loss of 513 million euros. Adidas reported 400 million euros ($441 million) in lost sales at the start of 2023, the company announced earlier this month. Net sales declined 1% in the first quarter, to 5.27 billion euros, the company said. It reported a net loss of 24 million euros, a plunge from a profit of 310 million euros in the same period a year ago. Operating profit, which excludes some items like taxes, was down to 60 million euros from 437 million euros a year earlier. Meanwhile, investors also filed a class-action lawsuit against Adidas in late April, alleging the company knew about offensive remarks and harmful behavior from Ye years before terminating its pact with him. Adidas has pushed back on the allegations. _________ AP Business Writer David McHugh in Frankfurt, Germany, and AP Retail Writer Anne DInnocenzio in New York contributed to this report. The sun lines up between rows of skyscrapers in Manhattan on the evening of May 30, 2023 Snapping pictures with cell phones, hundreds of New Yorkers and tourists gathered in the streets to watch the sun set in perfect alignment between rows of the skyscrapers for which the city is famous. Right on schedule at 8:12 pm on Tuesday evening, the flaming orange ball could be seen perfectly framed by Manhattan's canyons of tall buildings on streets running east-west, such as 42nd Street, which runs through Times Square. This spectacle happens four times a year for two days, about three to four weeks before and after the summer and winter solstices. It has come to be known as "Manhattanhenge" after Stonehenge, the ancient monument in southern England where the sun also lines up perfectly during the solstices -- the moments when the sun appears to reach either its highest or lowest point in the sky. "It's a beautiful event. And it's some totally New York moment to do," said Jeanette Wolfson, a 47-year-old science teacher from Long Island who came into the city to take pictures for her students. She said she would remind them that "it's not the sun actually setting. It is the Earth rotating out of the light into the darkness." The event lures photographers with fancy lenses and regular New Yorkers and tourists who do not hesitate to stand in the streets for a few minutes, blocking traffic. Patrick Batchelder, a 59-year-old photographer, said that what matters is sharing the special moment with others. "The picture itself is not so important, just being around the crowd and seeing something unique in New York City," he said. The city's American Museum of Natural History recommends viewing the phenomenon from 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd or 57th streets to take in how "the city is framing the sunset", as astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson puts it. The next time it happens will be on July 12. arb/roc/dw/fg Govs. Glenn Youngkin (R-Va.) and Henry McMaster (R-S.C.) on Wednesday announced theyre joining a number of their fellow Republicans in sending National Guard troops from their states to the southern border at the request of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R). The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state. As leadership solutions at the federal level fall short, states are answering the call to secure our southern border, reduce the flow of fentanyl, combat human trafficking and address the humanitarian crisis, Youngkin said in a statement. The Virginia governor said the moves come after a group of governors were briefed by Abbott last week on what the Texas office called the ongoing crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border and asked for assistance with Texass unprecedented border security efforts. Abbott cited the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a national interstate mutual aid agreement. Youngkin on Wednesday issued an executive directive, and the state will deploy 100 troops from the Virginia National Guard, along with 21 support personnel. Given the intensive resource demands on Texas, the dangers posed by the fentanyl crisis, and impact of the border crisis on criminal activity to the Commonwealth, Virginia will do its part to assist the State of Texas efforts with the coordinated deployment of Virginia National Guard soldiers to assist in key aspects of their mission, the directive said. The Virginia troops will be under military command for a 30-day deployment and will be equipped with weapons, ammunition, body armor, protective masks, and night vision and other support devices, according to Youngkins directive. South Carolinas McMaster also directed the deployment of his states National Guard troops, citing Abbotts push. At the request of Texas Governor Greg Abbott, I have directed the deployment of South Carolina National Guard troops to Texas to help hold the line on the Southern border. The safety and security of South Carolinians require that we stop the drug cartels, criminals, and terrorists from entering our country to peddle their poison, McMaster said in a statement. McMasters office said the mission remains in the planning phase and the number of troops hasnt been finalized, though the goal is to deploy by July 1. Abbott and other GOP governors in border states long have protested the Biden administrations immigration policies and sounded alarms about the situation at the U.S.-Mexico crossing, particularly as the Trump-era Title 42 policy expired and migrant processing reverted to the system under Title 8, though so far the change has not produced the flood of migrants that many feared. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) earlier this month also announced his state was sending help to Texas, including more than 1,100 troopers, officers, soldiers and personnel. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. When most people think of Indonesia, they imagine Bali, and while the island of Bali is still relatively affordable, you'll find the best prices (and more adventure) by visiting the islands of Flores, Java, and Sumatra. I spent several months in Bali in 2016 and paid less than $10 a night for a private room. That low nightly rate is still the norm at several hotels and hostels in Sumatra, where you can book a night for $10 and eat for less than $2 a meal. President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Odesa Oblast on May 31, meeting with the regional military and law enforcement heads to discuss the situation in the southern region. During the meeting, Zelensky introduced the new governor of Odesa Oblast, controversial official Oleh Kiper. Speaking on the importance of Kipers position, Zelensky named the oblast a priority region for independent Ukraine. The safety at sea is paramount to the functioning of the grain corridor for Ukraines agricultural exports, Zelensky said. The president was also debriefed by the regional army, navy, and law enforcement heads on the situation in the oblast. They spoke about the military situation, criminality, and the general state of affairs. President Volodymyr Zelensky visits Odesa Oblast on May 31, 2023. (Photo: President's Office) Kiper is at the center of a controversy related to his 10-day trip abroad over the Christmas holidays in December 2022. According to Schemes, an investigative project of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Kiper told them he had left Ukraine for "family-related circumstances" but refused to reveal to which country as a matter of safety for his wife. Kiper said that she had renounced her Russian citizenship in July 2022. However, Schemes reported that at the time of their investigation's publication in February 2023, Kiper's spouse still had a valid Russian passport. Zelenskyy arrives in Odesa to introduce new military administration head and hold meeting Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has introduced Oleh Kiper, the new Head of the Odesa Oblast Military Administration, and held a meeting with the military and law enforcement during a work visit to Odesa. Source: Zelenskyy on Telegram Quote: "A working trip to Odesa Oblast. I held a meeting with the military command and the law enforcement leadership of the region concerning the current situation in Odesa Oblast. I have also introduced Oleh Kiper, the new Head of the Odesa Oblast Military Administration. This is a priority region of our independent state." Details: Zelenskyy specified that the following issues were discussed during the meeting: rebuilding of energy infrastructure damaged in the Russian attacks, and the facilitation of its stable operation; reopening key businesses under martial law; covering the needs of internally displaced persons; rehabilitation of soldiers. The president also praised the work of the Security Service of Ukraine in Odesa Oblast in counteracting the reconnaissance and sabotage activities of the Russians. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Zelenskyy gets acquainted with plan of children liberation at new Centre for Protection of Children's Rights Centre for the Protection of Children's Rights. He familiarised himself with the Bring Kids Back UA plan. Source: Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Facebook and Telegram, web-site of the Presidents Office Details: The Center for the Protection of Children's Rights must oppose Russia's crimes against Ukrainian children. During its opening, the president familiarized himself with the action plan of Bring Kids Back UA. The authorities, foreign governments and international organisations are joining forces to bring back to Ukraine children deported by Russia. According to the authorities, 371 children are already at home in Ukraine. Quote from Zelenskyy: "The beginning is definitely positive... the key meaning is probably in the name of the program Bring Kids Back UA. I sincerely wish us this - to bring all the children back home to Ukraine, and I fully support this program. We want to bring the children back as soon as possible." Details: During the presentation of the Bring Kids Back UA action plan, Daria Herasymchuk, Ukrainian Presidential Commissioner for Children's Rights and Child Rehabilitation, informed Zelenskyy in detail about the blocks that make up the plan: bringing back Ukrainian children deported by Russia; development of family-based forms of upbringing; reintegration of children brought back from the Russian Federation, organisation of their socialisation, educational initiatives; rescue and protection of Ukrainian children; recording crimes and bringing the Russian Federation to justice; interparliamentary interaction; Communication and public events as well as development of family upbringing infrastructure. Responsible state bodies are assigned to each of the blocks. Iryna Tuliakova, Head of the Coordination Centre for the Development of Family Upbringing and Child Care, emphasised that an algorithm for accompanying a child returning to Ukraine has been developed, and the provision of all necessary services is being unified. Zelenskyy inspected the children's corner for leisure inside the centre, as well as the rooms where the centre's specialists work following the Barnahus model. This is an interagency centre for children who have suffered crimes or witnessed them, where specialists can get information from children and their families, conduct a medical examination, in particular for forensic purposes, and provide the necessary therapeutic support. The president also spoke with the family of Mariupol defenders, who were in Russian captivity and were brought home as part of the prisoner swap. Father Ihor Dmytrykovskyi, who served as a sailor in the medical service and a military hospital driver in Mariupol, was brought home on 26 April 2023, after spending a year in Russian captivity. Mother Kateryna Skopina, a lieutenant in the medical military unit, was liberated from nine months of captivity on 6 December 2022. Ihor Dmytrykovskyi and Kateryna Skopina's daughter, Anna-Maria Dmytrykovska, was forcibly taken to Russia by the occupiers. The girl was brought back to Ukraine on 10 May 2023. For reference: June 1 is International Children's Day. Background: Russia has deported thousands of children from the occupied territories of Ukraine. On 30 May, Russian media outlets posted a video of the interrogation of the Save Ukraine fund employee, who wanted to take her godson and his brother from the occupied territory of Kherson Oblast. The Save Ukraine fund reported that groups of Ukrainian women are travelling to Russia to collect their children. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held the meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief in the city of Odesa on 31 May. Source: Zelenskyy on Telegram Quote: "Off-site Commander-in-Chief meeting in Odesa. We heard the report of commander Moskaliov [Eduard Moskaliov, commander of the Odesa Operational and Strategic Group of Forces ed.] about the operational situation in his area of responsibility. A separate report was made by Rear Admiral Neizhpapa [Oleksii Neizhpapa, commander of the Naval Forces of Ukraine ed.]: the protection of coastal infrastructure, operation of the grain corridor and other important issues." Details: The reports of the representatives of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine were also heard at the meeting. Specifically, Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, reported that the Defence Forces managed to stabilise the situation on the island of Khortytsia in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Moreover, Zelenskyy stated that Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, and Vasyl Maluik, Head of the Security Service of Ukraine, also presented the reports within their competence. The president provided no details concerning the content of these reports. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Oleh Kiper Read also: Russia agrees to resume inspections of vessels heading to Odesa and Chornomorsk Ministry of Infrastructure In his message, the president stated that Odesa is a priority region for Ukraine. "I introduced the newly appointed head of the Odesa Regional State Administration (RSA), Oleh Kiper; this is a priority region of our independent country," the message said. During the meeting, issues such as the restoration of energy infrastructure damaged by Russian attacks, ensuring its stable operation, the reopening of key enterprises, meeting the needs of internally displaced persons, and veteran rehabilitation were discussed. Zelenskyy appointed Kiper, then-head of the Kyiv prosecutor's office, as Odesa regional governor earlier on May 31. On March 15, Zelenskyy signed decrees dismissing several governors, including that of Odesa Col. Maksym Marchenko. He had been leading the Odessa RSA since March 2, 2022. After his dismissal, Marchenko said he planned to return to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Oleh Kiper was born in 1980 in the village of Tymkove, Odesa Oblast. He graduated from the Odessa National Law Academy with a law degree in 2002. Read also: Three people injured, one missing after fresh Russian strike on Odesa Oblast Since 2001, he worked in the prosecutor's office initially in Odesa, and then in the Ivano-Frankivsk oblasts. Read also: UK defense giant BAE Systems to open office in Ukraine Zelenskyy On June 9, 2020, the then Prosecutor-General Iryna Venediktova appointed Kiper as the deputy prosecutor of Kyiv, and three months later he began to lead the city's prosecution. Prior to that appointment, he was an adviser to the head of the President's Office, Andriy Yermak. Read also: Odesa police officers suspended from duty following argument over language use In the summer of 2022, some media reports suggested that Kiper could become the new Prosecutor-General after Venediktova's dismissal. 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 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the president of the aggressor country, Vladimir Putin, plan to visit Turkiye after the inauguration of Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan on 3-4 June. Source: correspondent of the Turkish newspaper Hurriyet, Hande Firat, with reference to sources Quote: "Many foreign heads of state have provided information about participation in the ceremony [inauguration ed.] on Saturday. Putin will visit Turkiye with a separate special visit. After Putin, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy will come to Turkiye [as well]. During the visit of Putin and Zelenskyy, the course of the war and grain corridor will be discussed." Details: According to her, during a conversation with US President Joe Biden, the latter told Erdogan: "I believe that the intervention of the West against you [in your affairs ed.] is unfair." Hurriyet reports that Erdogan's inauguration is scheduled for 3-4 June. UP asked the Office of the President for comment. Updated: Press Secretary of the Russian President Dmitrii Peskov confirmed Putin and Erdogans intention to hold a bilateral meeting. When and where it will be held is not yet agreed. Background: On 28 May, Turkiye held a vote in the second round of the presidential election, which resulted in the victory of the current President Erdogan. Zelenskyy congratulated Erdogan on his election victory. Putin did the same. Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron! We headed to the Blue Ridge Parkway twice last week to walk among the wildflowers and warblers in idyllic spring weather. On Thursday we took one of our favorite strolls: Thunder Ridge Overlook to Thunder Hill Shelter. We spent nearly three hours going 1.75 miles. Good thing we arent planning to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail! It would take decades at that rate. At Thunder Ridge, we were greeted by a half dozen indigo buntings, American restarts and red-eyed vireos. As we clambered over the rocky trail, we were surrounded by the white blossoms of Allegheny blackberries and the deep purple of rhododendron blooms. Both Solomans seal, with its lovely white bell-shaped flowers hiding beneath its leaves, and false Solomons seal with its fuzzy white blossoms at the end of its stem, sprung up along the trail. A blue-headed vireo with its classic spectacles appeared in front of me and soon started chattering with a possible mate. After crossing the parkway, we came upon a mini forest of cinnamon ferns, with their large cinnamon-colored, spore-bearing fronds. Above our heads, hooded and scarlet tanagers joined the ever-talkative red-eyed vireos and redstarts. As we continued up the trail, we had to stop for black-and-white warblers, cerulean warbers and even a Canada warbler. A bunch of rowdy gray catbirds mocked their neighbors, while in the distance a barred owl hooted its familiar call: Who cooks for you? The trail was lined with pagoda dogwoods, spiderwort, wild geranium, white clintonia and 10 yellow ladys slippers, a beautiful native orchid. We spied a rose-breasted grosbeak singing high in a poplar and a number of eastern towhees flitting lower down. Ovenbirds, wood thrushes and worm-eating warblers sang, while a dark-eyed junco quietly gathered caterpillars for its babies. The top of the trail boasted fragrant wild azalea and the last vestiges of bleeding heart, trillium, Canadian lousewort and star chickweed. On our return, we flushed a wild turkey hen and four or five fuzzy babies that shot frantically into the air. In all, we heard or saw 24 species and 103 individual birds. On Friday we headed for Otter Creek and saw our first newborn fawn of the year as its mother stopped traffic to get it across the road. Once on the trail, we hiked two miles among mountain laurel, the tall white spikes of galax and the tiny white flowers of the low-growing partridge berry, which will sport red berries in the fall. We passed the yellow flowers of rattlesnake hawkweed and a tiny ring-necked snake that lay perfectly still along the trails edge. We saw two nesting pairs of worm-eating warblers who chirped incessantly, clearly not wanting us near their nests hidden on the ground. They were carrying caterpillars to their babies, and one grappled with a caterpillar nearly half its size. Louisiana waterthrushes sang and chirped along the babbling creek, while northern parula warblers sang overhead. We clocked another 18 bird species. The woods are too beautiful this time of year to be anywhere else. By Emmanuella Obaje-Daniels Atikus exhibits include INEC Certified True Copies, summary of results, print out BVAS report for each polling units in the 36 states, amongst others. The counsel for the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar and the party, Eyitayo Jegede, has tendered all exhibits to prove their case against President Bola Tinubu. The exhibits were tendered when the Presidential Election Petitions Court reconvened after a week on Tuesday to begin the definite hearing in the petitions by Atiku and Labour Partys Peter Obi, challenging Tinubus victory in the February 25 election. Atikus exhibits include the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Certified True Copies of declaration of results, summary of results, print out of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) report for each polling units in the 36 states, number of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) collected in all the states including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The court also adjourned hearing of the petition of the Allied Peoples Movement to June 2 to give them time to look into the Certified True Copy of the Supreme Court judgement of May 26 on the controversy surrounding the double nomination of Vice President Kashim Shettima, and see how it affects their petition. The Labour Party and Obi have opened their petition against Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and INEC, by calling one witness out of the 50 proposed. Before the witness, who is a lawyer and hails from Anambra testified, counsel to Peter Obi, Jibrin Okutepa, tendered a judgement from a district court in the United States, which reportedly indicted Tinubu and ordered his forfeiture of $460,000 in drug-related offences. The hearing commenced, led in evidence by Okutepa, with an Anambra-based lawyer and LP witness, Lawrence Nwakaeti, tendering the certified true copy of the US district court judgement. After cross-examination, counsel to Tinubu, Wole Olanipekun, said the witness admitted that the judgement was not registered in nigeria. The lawyer also admitted that there was no certificate from any consular in Nigeria or America in support of the judgement but insisted that the judgement speaks for itself. He claimed to have read the whole judgement in America, adding that he would be surprised if no mention was made of $460,000 forfeiture. Under cross-examination by counsel to APC, Lateef Fagbemi, the witness said the American court judgement had no certificate given under the hand of any American police officer. He denied knowledge of a February 4, 2003 formal clearance report by a legal attache from the American embassy in respect of the alleged indictment and forfeiture. The court subsequently admitted it in evidence. CHANNELS TV NEWS SECTIONS By Donatus Anichukwueze The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, doubted that the Dangote Refinery can take care of 30% of the needs of Nigerians. The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) says the recently launched Dangote Petrol Refinery may not take complete care of the needs of Nigerians and may not bring down prices of petroleum products in the country. Speaking on Channels Televisions Sunrise Daily on Wednesday amid the fuel subsidy removal controversy, the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said the Dangote Refinery is commendable but it might not be the answer to the issues confronting the petroleum sector. Ajaero said, First, I commend Dangote Refinery but the provision of having dictatorship of the market especially in the private sector is dangerous. Now that is what we are experiencing in the area of cement production. What is Dangote Refinery going to produce? Will it be enough? He has done enough to build a refinery. If three or four companies like that are refining then you are talking of competition. So, I think while we commend Dangote as a good Nigerian, we are talking about competition, we are talking of deregulation. So Dangote has done well, but can Dangote take care of 30% of the needs of Nigerians? Ajaero queried. President Bola Tinubu in his inaugural speech on Monday, said fuel subsidy has ended. His pronouncement caused panic in the sector resulting in an instant scarcity of petroleum products across the country. However, Ajaero said the position of Labour has been clear on the issue that even if Tinubu has a good intention, alternatives must be provided. He said the President should have asked questions and find out the implications of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians on the streets. The NLC boss listed the alternatives to include the repair of the nations four refineries, provision of transportation of alternatives for the Nigerian workers, among others. The pronouncement by Mr President is as good as law and if in the process we make a law that is not practicable, the same people that made the law can look at it, Ajaero said while calling for a review of the Presidents pronouncement. Does it bring pleasure to us to say subsidy is gone and people start suffering? Is it not part of leadership for us to look at how the suffering of the people can be reduced? he asked. CHANNELS TV NEWS SECTIONS At least five people are unaccounted for and two are likely to be in the building that partially collapsed over the weekend in downtown Davenport, city officials said in an emotional hourlong news conference. Rescue crews are planning another sweep of the building, Davenport Fire Marshal Jim Morris said Tuesday morning. They are working to determine how to do so safely, given its increasingly perilous condition. A structural engineer has concluded that rescuers cannot go into the debris pile without destabilizing the building, Morris said. At 4:30 p.m., the city issued an update that MABAS 43 Technical Rescue Team conducted a search operation within portions of the building that presented as acceptable risk for emergency response entry. While several animals were rescued and delivered to the Scott County Humane Society, the city said no human activity was detected. It is our goal to be able to conduct a search for additional occupants and any pets that still remain inside, Morris said Tuesday morning. We are currently working with technical rescue teams to determine the best options to provide an additional search. Our search teams are currently deployed on site and evaluating the building. Morris, at the news conference, grew emotional. Were very sympathetic to the possibility that theres two people ... Morris paused, appearing to gather himself. A womans voice broke through the quiet from outside the room, yelling that someone was still missing. That theres two people still left inside, Morris continued, his voice breaking. We want to get everybody out. And we want to do it right now, Morris continued but said the city had to do so in a safe manner. At close to 2 p.m. personnel in bright yellow vests and hard hats gathered in front of the building, and some were entering on the ground floor. The additional search for survivors was spurred by the rescue of a woman from a fourth-floor window Monday night about 12 hours after city officials declared no one remained inside. Lisa Brooks was rescued more than 24 hours after the building collapse. Davenport Mayor Mike Matson said Tuesday that he didnt know how Brooks was missed in the initial search. But he called the rescue a happy event and said the city wants to know how its possible search teams, canines and technical tools missed her. At noon Monday, hours before Brooks was found, the city issued a news release that officials had transitioned from a rescue operation to a recovery operation. Officials said the building was ordered for demolition and that the property is currently being secured by a contractor on site this afternoon and demolition is expected to commence in the morning. The city clarified Tuesday, writing that demolition includes permitting and staging of equipment and that the timing of the physical demolition was still being evaluated. At the time of the announcement, hundreds of protesters were in the street outside City Hall, demanding another search for survivors, remains and/or tenants pets. Matson denied that city plans for physical demolition had changed when asked by several journalists, repeating that we havent (demolished) it and that our continuous evaluation of what to do or not to do happened in real time. But Morris, the fire marshal, when asked if demolition plans had changed once it was clear someone was in the building, said there were no indications of life until Brooks was found. Absolutely, theres new information that comes up. We had no indications from any of the responders that we had any of our tools, any of the canines at that time, Morris said. So, at some point, we had to move forward. As this is fluid and flexible, we started moving to change once we had a new indication that there was somebody in the building. Hence the reason why were talking with technical rescue teams and a structural engineer to figure out the safest way to do another search. Police Chief Jeff Bladel said there was a firm belief that two people were inside the building. One of those people is Ryan Hitchcock. His cousin, Amy Anderson, wrote her number in dust on the windshield of a parked car, asking for help finding Ryan. Anderson, who said she believes Hitchcock is likely under the rubble, spoke at the news conference, urging the public to let the city handle the situation. Pushing any delays is one more day that hes under there, Anderson said. Ryan wouldnt want anyone else to put their lives at risk. She said city officials had given her their word they would treat that last area with sensitivity to the remains that are underneath and excavate them as soon as possible and recover them. Thats really what we want. We do not want a full-on demolition or a full-on delay for that building to even collapse more, she said. She later added that she is not 100% behind the city but that her main concern is that Hitchcock is respected. It is an absolute no-win situation, but it is the best plan of attack, she added. Family members of the second missing person, Branden Colvin, could be heard outside the room of the press conference making impassioned pleas to the city to continue searching for Colvin. While there are two people officials believe are likely in the building, there are another three that are unaccounted for. Bladel said city officials were cross-checking lists of tenants that might be outdated, and the city was working to contact them and determine if those three people could be in the building. Officials emphasized that the building remains structurally unsound and is in imminent danger of collapsing. The city-hired structural engineer advising on the building, Larry Sandhaas with Shive Hattery, said at the news conference they planned to create a complete digital 3D model of the building using a scanning drone. The 3D model would assess the condition of it, assess the prospect of future collapse and help ultimately the city to figure out the what, the where and the why. As for pets in the building, Matson said, the city is working with the Humane Society, and said if first responders go into parts of the building, first responders will be going back in to see if we can save lives. By 1:30 p.m., at least two cats had been removed from evacuated apartments. So far, nine individuals have been rescued from the building, including one who was partially buried in rubble. The city has said building officials are staging equipment and pulling permits in preparation for demolition, but when the building could physically come down is in flux. Barricades are placed around the building, though onlookers can get as close as 100 feet in places. Protesters gathered in front of the building as and after crews rescued Brooks, imploring city officials to continue checking for missing people. City officials said two structural engineering reports were submitted to the city earlier this year on the early 1900s-era building one in January and one last week. Inspection records show city inspections in February and last week. Select Structural Engineering, a company hired by the building owner, determined it was sound enough to be worked on with tenants still living inside, City Neighborhood Services Director Rich Oswald said at the news conference. Asked whether the city was satisfied with those engineering reports, Oswald said, The chief building official was satisfied with what the engineer requested the repairs and how the repairs were to be made. Matson said documentation, including photos, videos and logs from the incident, would be turned over to an investigative team. The leader of that team has yet to be determined, but we are in consult with state officials on the proper course of action, Matson said. If youre a former tenant of the building who needs help The Red Cross has set up a new location at 1111 W. Kimberly Road in Davenport, the former Select Specialty Hospital location. Starting at noon Wednesday, those impacted by the building collapse or evacuation order can go to this new location for information, a place to stay, meals, phone charging stations, health and mental health services, and one-on-one support, according to a release. The 24-7 hotline is 800-RED-CROSS. 3:01 p.m. The Scott County Humane Society said around 3 p.m. Tuesday that all of the pets they had been told were in the building are now out. Owners of six cats, two snakes and a lizard had contacted the society, which then helped Davenport firefighters with bringing the animals out of the building. The society said that all of the animals seemed to be doing well on first appearance. 2:21 p.m. Firefighters have pulled two more animals out of apartments so far, entering and taking them out through an open window. pic.twitter.com/RKzUlRs6MG Brooklyn Draisey (@BrooklynDraisey) May 30, 2023 Crews are using a fire department bucket truck as part of the effort to rescue pets which were trapped in the building. A sweep for people in the partially collapsed building is underway. Another cat has been rescued and crews have headed up with another carrier. 1:18 p.m. Crews have started removing pets from the building, including two cats from the second floor. The owners have been contacted, said Celina Rippel with the Humane Society. 12:33 p.m. The Scott County Humane Society has carriers and cages set up on site to receive any animals that are found, Executive Director Erika Gunn said. Six cats, two snakes and a lizard are reported to still be in the building, and the Humane Society said it had passed along the unit numbers to the fire departments, she said. The Humane Society will not be entering the building but will be ready to help with the animals. They will contact the animal owners to get them the information. So far, one dog which was found on Sunday was reunited. Animals they do not know an owner for will be taken to the shelter while the society tries to contact the owner. 12:05 p.m. The press conference has wrapped up. Reporters will be working on a story on what was said. 11:47 a.m. The city is working with engineering firm Shive Hattery. Engineer Larry Sandhaas said they are working on a 3D model to figure out how to go about all the demolition. "The debris pile is helping to hold the building up," he said. Sandhaas said there will be further collapsing. "This building is going to collapse," he said three times. Matson says the plan was to begin bringing in equipment today. NOT demo the building today. He says there was never a set day for the action. pic.twitter.com/3oK1GdFqWg Gretchen Teske (@peskyteske) May 30, 2023 11:20 a.m. Two Iowa State Patrol officers have joined Davenport police officers at the protest. A second fence has been added and a fire truck is still on scene. At the press conference, Mayor Mike Matson said the city is consulting with the state on an investigation into the collapse. He credited first responders and said that the plan is to set up for demolition today but that the actual timing of the physical demolition is not determined. Mayor Matson: An investigation is under way. pic.twitter.com/GQeidXCcpv Gretchen Teske (@peskyteske) May 30, 2023 10:58 a.m. The press conference has started. We are livestreaming on the QC Times Facebook page. Mayor Mike Matson said that there are five people unaccounted for, including two believed to be inside the building. The police department met with families Monday night. Police chief Jeffery Bladel said there is a "firm belief" the two people are inside the building. Matson says he does not know how Lisa Brooks, who was rescued Monday evening, was missed in the initial search. City officials said on Monday morning that they did not believe there were any people still in the building. Brooks was rescued around 12 hours later. Ryan Hitchcock, one of the individuals believed to be in the building, his cousin Amy is currently speaking. She said city did speak with them and that they have a plan. Believes he did not survive. Grace Kinnicutt (@GKinnicutt) May 30, 2023 Amy Anderson is the cousin of Ryan Hitchcock, one of the men believed to still be inside the building. She spoke at the press conference, saying the city will handle this and that she is "mortified" by the protests. She believes her cousins has died and wants the building to come down so his body can be recovered. "It is an absolute no win situation, but it is the best plan of attack," she said. She later added that she is not 100% behind the city, but that her main concern is that Hitchcock is respected. Assistant Davenport Fire Chief Jim Morris said the building is getting worse and that the fire department has rescue teams on site working on a plan. The structural engineer has determined the rescuers cannot go into the debris pile, Morris said. Structural engineer currently talking, saying building continues to worsen and that it was not built for modern day. It was built in 1914 as the Davenport Hotel. Said the brick is holding the steel and the steel hold the bricks, and once one goes, it all goes. Grace Kinnicutt (@GKinnicutt) May 30, 2023 The engineers has said that the building, built in 1914, continues to worsen and that the rubble pile is helping keep the building stable. The fire department wants to go back in but has to do so in a safe way, Morris said. "There's a lot of things that we have to factor," he said. 10:55 a.m. Police have moved behind the fence set up around the site of the collapse, as the protest continues. The press conference is expected to start any time, it was scheduled for 10:00 a.m. and then pushed back to 10:30. Press are waiting on city officials. The presser was originally set to begin at 10am. pic.twitter.com/BxzPfOksVC Gretchen Teske (@peskyteske) May 30, 2023 10:25 a.m. A fire truck is now on scene as well, with protestors and police still present at the site. Protestors have started chanting "search and rescue." The city has a press conference planned for 10:30 a.m. at the police department. The collapsed building, "The Davenport" at 324 Main Street, less than a block from City Hall and the police station. There was a drone flying close to the building on the east side as well. The building, which has a total of 84 residential and retail units, partially collapsed Sunday afternoon. At least nine people have been rescued so far but protestors say there are still at least two residents missing, Branden Colvin and Ryan Hitchcock. The crowd has shifted towards City Hall as the press conference nears. People are yelling "Where's Mike? Where's the mayor?" pic.twitter.com/9mcO90uimU Sarah Watson (@K_5mydearwatson) May 30, 2023 9:25 a.m. The city has announced the press conference will now be at 10:30 a.m. The city plans to live stream to its Facebook page. The City of Davenport will host a press conference at 10 am. I will be there to tweet, but please refer to the city/pds Facebook pages for the live stream. pic.twitter.com/Thih7HlXAj Gretchen Teske (@peskyteske) May 30, 2023 9:00 a.m. There were around 300 protestors by around 9 a.m. Tuesday, urging the city to do more searching before demolishing the building. One of the protestors, Sally Ellis, 78, of Davenport, said the city should go through the pile brick by brick. "It was absolutely ridiculous," she said. A city of Davenport's size should be doing more, Ellis said. She compared the situation to building collapses in Miami and Turkey. "It isn't' right, I can't believe this mayor," she said. Jonnie Woods is Branden Colvin's aunt. She believes Colvin is still in the building and has been calling for the demolition to be held off. Brandon Colvins aunt is pleading for officials to find her nephew. Its a matter of life and death. pic.twitter.com/C5l0sMLtBe Gretchen Teske (@peskyteske) May 30, 2023 "It's a matter of life and death," she said Tuesday morning. "I'm going to show up as long as I can." Traffic was being rerouted, with some of the protestors facing the traffic. There were around 300 protestors on scene around 9 a.m. Police were also present, keeping protestors back from the fence surrounding the building. Some roads in the area, including 4th Street between Main and Harrison, are closed. A city press conference is scheduled for 10 a.m. Photos: Davenport apartment collapse day 2 We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. While Chinas global competition has been a well-known fact, Beijing now signals an expansion of its ambitions in the Horn of Africa, as evidenced by Ethiopias recent acknowledgement that China has become the East African nations leading source of foreign direct investment, largest trading partner, and development financier. China plans to send more emergency food aid to the Horn of Africa and will also fund the reconstruction of Ethiopian infrastructure destroyed in the Tigray war, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang said in Beijing during a recent meeting with his Ethiopian counterpart. China supported the Ethiopian peace process, Qin also said and is willing to deepen cooperation between the two countries in various fields to help Ethiopias post-war reconstruction, development and revitalization. Demeke Mekonnen Hassen, Ethiopias Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister; noted that as his countrys leading source of foreign direct investment as well as the countrys largest trading partner and development financier China had a big role to play in its future growth. This comes as experts have described Chinas strategy as having been increasingly aimed at fragmenting its diplomatic engagement with the Horn of Africa to cement its foothold in the conflict-ridden region. China has been shifting the dynamics of its geopolitical influence in sub-Saharan Africa by expanding its footprint in the region as the United States and its European allies made an exit. Experts also point out that China has been weaponizing investment on foreign soils, including in the Horn of Africa, as a part of its debt-trap diplomacy to fulfill agendas of economic and military expansionism abroad. According to Michael Rubin, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), while China has until now been opportunistic, exploiting commercial opportunities in Ethiopia and Djibouti, [Beijing] could soon move into a new stage in which it uses its military under the guise of security operations or partnerships in order to shape governments to its interests along the Red Sea and Indian Ocean coasts from Sudan down to Kenya. Kenya will sign a trade pact with Russia aimed at boosting cooperation between businesses, President William Rutos office announced on Monday following a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, as Moscow and Kyiv both seek to bolster support from African nations over their war. Lavrovs surprise trip to the East African powerhouse comes only days after a visit to the continent by his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba. During our visit we will discuss our cooperation in the trade, investment and economic spheres, humanitarian and cultural questions, education, cooperation in the UN and many other issues, Lavrov reportedly told Kenyan lawmakers. Rutos office said in a statement that Kenya plans to ink trade pact with Russia to give business the necessary impetus to bilateral trade with Russia that was still low despite the potential. However, it did not reveal when the pact might be sealed or give details on what it might encompass. Russia sells mostly grain and fertilizers to Kenya. Yet, the latest statement from Kenyas presidency emphasized the East African countrys support for safeguarding each nations territorial integrity, adding that Kenya calls for a resolution of the conflict in a manner respectful to the two parties. Russias top diplomat has visited Africa several times over the past year, as global powers tussle for influence on the continent of 1.3 billion people. His Ukrainian counterpart last week called for certain African nations to abandon their neutral stances over the war in Ukraine and announced a push by Kyiv to intensify its ties with the continent, including by opening more embassies and holding a summit with Africas leaders. Meanwhile, a 2nd Russia-Africa summit is to be held in Saint Petersburg in late July. The European Union is Africas most important trading partner and while both continents stand to gain from closer commercial relations, trade between Europe and Africa suffers from a broad misalignment in trade policy priorities, David Luke, professor at the London School of Economics & political Sciences, argues in his new book on African trade. While Europe and Africa have a long trade history, the current trade policy priorities of the two neighbors are in a muddle. With decades of experience in African trade policy and trade negotiations, Luke argues that this is due to the balkanizing effect of the EUs patchwork of trade agreements across the African continent at a time when African countries are pursuing an ambitious economic integration reform agenda through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Drawing on research for a new edited volume titled How Africa Trades, he argues that fixing this misalignment in EU-Africa trade policy priorities requires a reset. To get out of the muddle, Luke argues that a good development case can be made for the EU to grant unilateral market access that is duty-free and quota-free to all African countries, with a unified rules of origin regime for a transitional period benchmarked against milestones in AfCFTA implementation and the gains emerging from it. This will require multilateral legitimization through a World Trade Organization (WTO) waiver. Concessions to Africa as the worlds least developed continent, accounting for only 2.3% of world exports, poses no threat to the international trading system. The LSE professor adds that allowing non-reciprocal access to advanced country markets for a transitional period, is strongly pro-development, as much as it encourages African countries to seek trade opportunities with each other, which in turn mitigates the risks of trade diversion. The United States has commended Moroccos role in the fight against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) in Africa. The praise was voiced by US Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Bonnie Jenkins, during the opening session of the high-level political meeting of the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI), convening in Jeju, South Korea May 30 to June 02. The US official welcomed Moroccos partnership with the United States within the PSI framework, a partnership that will be strengthened by further operational actions aimed at African countries in 2024, making Morocco a model in the WMD non-proliferation. Members of the anti-proliferation initiative agreed on Tuesday at the Jeju meeting to step up cooperation against changing security environment and reaffirmed their commitment to interdict the illicit transfer of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and related materials. In a joint statement, the participating countries agreed to further commit to improving PSI capacity-building activities and training, as well as addressing the challenges posed by the emerging technologies and proliferation practices amid the changing security environment. The new areas of concern include proliferation finance involving cryptocurrency, intangible technology transfers and the increasing sophistication of proliferators tactics to circumvent international law, they stated, as reported by Yonhap news agency. The PSI members also noted that emerging technologies, such as 3D printing, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing, can create additional nonproliferation and counter-proliferation challenges. Stressing the need for increased cooperation in countering evolving threats posed by the development of nuclear and ballistic missile programs, the delegates decided to work on an action plan for the implementation of the joint statement. The high-level forum held on the 20th anniversary of the PSI is attended by delegates from 70 PSI-endorsing and observer countries, including Morocco, a founding member of the initiative. The Moroccan delegation to the meeting includes officials from the Foreign Department, the National Defense Administration, and the General Directorate of National Security. The Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) is a voluntary multilateral cooperation framework launched in 2003, to implement the Interdiction Principles. It aims to strengthen operational cooperation between the various ministerial departments and national agencies responsible for security, through measures to combat the illicit transport and delivery systems of WMD and related materials. The junta in power in Guinea has proposed the limitation of political parties to three as part of its proposals for a new Constitution. Brigadier-general David Haba, Chief of staff of the ministry of Defense unveiled the proposals to the national Councilors in charge of collecting recommendations for a new Constitution in the west african country. As part of the 6 proposals made by the junta, Haba indicated that for the sake of public order, the number of political parties in the West african country should be reduced to three, namely Democrats, Socialists and Ecologists. Guinea reportedly has more than 300 registered political parties. The proposal from the junta echoes a suggestion that emerged from a national consultation for the reduction of political parties in view of stamping out ethnocentrism. The idea was rejected by some parties. In February, authorities threatened to dissolve political parties following an unrest and a call for demonstration by a coalition of political parties. Two young protesters were killed in the protest banned by authorities. Political and social organizations found criminally responsible by the competent authorities will be subject to sanctions ranging from suspension to withdrawal of their accreditation, Mory Conde, the minister of Territorial Administration said. Led by Mamady Doumbouya, the junta seized power in September 2021, ousting former leader Alpha Conde. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 30) Former Social Welfare Secretary Erwin Tulfo has taken his oath as nominee of the Anti-Crime and Terrorism Community Involvement and Support (ACT-CIS) Party-list. Tulfo, however, cannot assume office just yet, an official of the House of Representatives said. At a briefing on Tuesday, House Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe confirmed Tulfo's oath-taking, which House Secretary General Reginald Velasco said was a "formality." The Commission on Elections (Comelec) earlier junked a disqualification case against Tulfo, and said he can assume his post as ACT-CIS nominee.https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/5/26/Comelec-Erwin-Tulfo-ACT-CIS-post.html "We can issue a certification of who is now the third nominee after the resignation of the former third even if the MR (motion for reconsideration) is still pending. Administrative lang 'yong sa part ng [on the part of] Comelec," Comelec Chairman George Garcia told reporters. But Velasco said Tulfo cannot assume office until the House receives official notice from the poll body stating that Tulfo is the party-list's nominee. "Pwede nang ituloy yan kasi [That can proceed because] we were already assured that the letter is forthcoming and we were furnished a copy of the notice of dismissal of the case against him. So we will go ahead with the oath-taking, but of course the actual occupation of the office we will await the formal letter from Comelec," Velasco earlier said. Velasco added that ACT-CIS has officially informed them that Tulfo is "indeed the nominee" who replaced Rep. Jeffrey Soriano. A Court in Tunisia ordered the arrest of police officer found in possession of 396 tablets of ecstasy, on his way to capital Tunis from Kasserine governorate, Tunisie Numerique reports. The court of First Instance of the governorate also ordered the arrest of another individual and instructed the release of three other people initially apprehended in connection with the case. The police officer was arrested on board a car with the tablets found on him. Tunisia has criminalized the use of drug. Ecstasy is illegal and can cause hallucinations. Also known as a designer drug because created for the purpose of making someone feel high, the drug is popular with teens and young adults who go to clubs and concerts. In 2021, a court in Tunis sentenced four young men to 20 years in prison for forming a drug trafficking network in the capital. The court also slapped around $35,000-fine on each. Benins Court of Economic Crimes and Terrorism Repression (CRIET) pressed Tuesday 15 years in prison sentence against a Dutch man for possession and sale of high risk drug, reports say. The court also fined the man whose identity has not been revealed XOF10 million ($16,000). Per the verdict, the man has 15 days to appeal the decision. The Dutch expat has reportedly been in custody since his arrest on February 17 this year, at Cotonou international airport. The defendant following his arrest told the investigating judge he came to the West African country to sign a heritance document, Banouto reports. He also added that he came following an encounter with a British woman working at UKs Foreign ministry. The Institute for Security Studies in 2021 reported that Benin was increasingly becoming a hotspot in the global drug trafficking network. By June that year, the countrys share of the illicit trade amounted to 1.3 tons. The illicit drugs originate from Latin America and the Middle East. Rome (CNN) Venetian authorities are investigating after a patch of fluorescent green water appeared in the famed Grand Canal on Sunday morning. This morning a patch of phosphorescent green liquid appeared in the Grand Canal of Venice, reported by some residents near the Rialto Bridge. The prefect has called an urgent meeting with the police to investigate the origin of the liquid, Veneto regional president Luca Zaia wrote on Twitter. The local prefect spokesperson told CNN that they immediately took water samples, reviewed CCTV surveillance tape and asked local gondolier pilots and boat drivers if they saw anything suspicions, before calling an emergency meeting to investigate the cause of the green water, noting that no environmental group had claimed responsibility. The verdant blob was first noticed around 9:30 a.m. CET (3.30 a.m. ET) and grew slowly, according to multiple images posted on social media, which showed gondolas, water taxis and water bus boats skimming through the emerald substance. City councilman Andrea Pegoraro immediately blamed environmental activists who have been attacking Italian cultural heritage sites in recent months. The group Ultima Generazione, which poured charcoal into the Trevi Fountain in Rome last weekend, told CNN when asked if they were behind the green water, It wasnt us. Italys fire brigade tweeted that they were assisting with providing samples and technical assistance to the ARPA Veneto, the regional agency that oversees the environmental state of the Grand Canal, which are conducting analysis to establish the nature of the substance in the water. Various theories surfaced online, including that it could be algae or a substance illegally dispersed in the canal. This is not the first time Venices Grand Canal has experienced a color alteration. In 1968 Argentine artist Nicolas Garcia Uriburu dyed the waters of the canal green with a fluorescent dye called Fluorescein, during the annual Venice Biennale. The move was designed to bring attention to ecological issues and the relationship between nature and civilization. The curious coloring comes as the city is celebrating the Vogalonga boat event, created to combat wave motion and to restore Venetian traditions and help spread attention for the environment and nature as well as the architecture Biennale, which opened last weekend. ___ Photo: Seth Wenig/AP The artist formerly known as Kanye West wasnt the only one who lost a lot of money when he went on a monthlong tirade against Jewish people culminating in an appearance on Infowars, in which which his unabashed antisemitism made even Alex Jones queasy. When Ye lost his billionaire status, Adidas, maker of his hugely popular Yeezy line, was left with an enormous sunk cost. After Adidas dropped Ye in October, it put tens of thousands of Yeezy sneakers in storage, announcing that if it could not figure out a way to sell them, it would be forced to eat a $1.3 billion revenue loss in 2023. But the brilliant minds in Herzogenaurach, Germany, have come up with an idea so crazy it might work: Theyre simply going to start selling Yeezys again. The sneakers and slides, absent from the Adidas site for months, will be back on sale as of Wednesday afternoon. According to CEO Bjrn Gulden, the company considered burning the shoes, giving them away, or removing the Yeezy branding before selling them as if the lines bubbly silhouette wouldnt make their provenance clear. A company press release stated that, under the new plan, Adidas will give a significant amount of Yeezy revenue to nonprofits including the Anti-Defamation League and Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change, which was founded by George Floyds brother. We believe this is the best solution as it respects the created designs and produced shoes, it works for our people, resolves an inventory problem, and will have a positive impact in our communities, Gulden said earlier this month, when he first announced the plan. For consumers still enraged by Yes hateful comments, this is not a perfect fix. In March, Gulden made clear that the rapper would still receive some royalties if Adidas sold off his remaining sneakers. (Perhaps Ye can use the cash injection to fund his new habit of buying absolutely massive shoulder pads for everyday wear.) Once Adidas offloads its remaining inventory, the companys relationship with Ye will officially be kaput. But that doesnt mean demand for Yeezys will disappear. Putting aside the lucrative sneaker resale market, it looks like theres a huge appetite for the final Yeezy season: Customers had to sign up for a drawing that opened on May 25 in order to get a chance to buy the $230 Boost models coming out on Wednesday. Twin nightmares for every old liberal. Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photos: Dirck Halstead/Getty Images, Brandon Bell/Getty Images Among both his friends and his enemies, there is a tendency to think of Donald Trump as sui generis: a political figure, and certainly a president, unlike any other. In some respects, including his incessant mendacity and his tendency to publicly insult everyone who doesnt bow down to him, he may truly be without equal in U.S. history and more comparable to foreign political strongmen from Juan Peron to Viktor Orban. But at the New York Times, Ross Barkan suggests that as Trump pursues a comeback after his 2020 defeat (which, of course, he will not acknowledge), he may actually resemble a highly controversial 20th-century predecessor: Richard Nixon. The 37th president, like the 45th, survived periodic dismissal as a loser (Nixon narrowly lost the 1960 presidential contest to John F. Kennedy and then was upset two years later in a bid for the California governorship). And when Nixon made his comeback in 1968, he faced intraparty competition from both the left and the right, as well as from large-state governors just as formidable as todays Trump rival Ron DeSantis. Barkan writes: Mr. Trump today, like mid-60s Nixon, has reasserted himself as a party kingpin. Now he, too, is contending with a popular governor from a large swing state. In the 1968 G.O.P. primary, Nixon had to outflank three prominent Republican governors George Romney of Michigan, Nelson Rockefeller of New York and Ronald Reagan of California who could offer, in the immediate term at least, more allure. In both cases, Barkan argues, the familiar if much-derided retreads benefited from divided opposition: Just as a divided primary field worked to Nixons advantage, so it may for Mr. Trump, especially if several other candidates become viable. In such a scenario, Mr. Trump may need only pluralities in pivotal early states to take the nomination. His core fan base might be enough. Some comparisons between these two Republican presidents are both compelling and intriguing. They both have aroused a particularly visceral and fully reciprocated hostility from liberals and the mainstream news media. They both introduced highly new and virulent cultural issues into national politics. They both were identified with the conservative movement but were often ideologically flexible when political opportunism demanded it. They both (in Nixons case, after his 1968 comeback, to be sure) abused and sought to massively expand presidential powers. And they both faced rare impeachment efforts (Nixon resigned before a near-certain House impeachment; Trump was impeached twice by the House and acquitted twice by the Senate). But beyond that the Nixon 68/Trump 24 comparisons are at best strained. For one thing, the near-universal primaries that characterized presidential-nomination contests after 1972 werent in place four years earlier. Additionally, Nixons Republican rivals ran erratic and poorly timed campaigns. George Romneys candidacy lasted just over three months; he dropped out before the New Hampshire primary after registering terrible numbers against Nixon. Nelson Rockefeller didnt join the 1968 race until the end of April too late to enter most of the remaining primaries and mostly depended on electability-based appeals to Republican-convention delegates. And Reagan didnt enter the race until the eve of that convention; his pincer move to work with Rockefeller to deny Nixon the nomination failed. There was nothing like the large and persistent field of primary rivals Trump overcame in 2016 and now faces (at this point in the cycle, at least) in 2024, led by the extremely well-financed and relatively well-known DeSantis. The dynamics of the general elections of 1968 and 2024, moreover, are dramatically different. Nixon benefited from a highly unstable partisan landscape. The Democratic Party that swept the 1964 presidential election under Lyndon Johnson was steadily coming apart. As Barkan notes, Nixon had to compete in southern states with George Wallaces right-wing crypto-segregationist ticket, deploying racially inflammatory law and order themes that indeed established demagogic models still being emulated by todays Republicans. But most of Wallaces voters, like Wallace himself, were ex-Democrats leaving their ancestral party. And Democratic divisions to the left (over the Vietnam War) and to the right (over civil rights) of Nixon made it possible for Tricky Dick to run as something of a centrist; a considerable number of anti-war Democrats and independents who didnt trust Democratic nominee Hubert Humphrey to end the conflict took a chance on Nixon, who claimed to have a secret plan to end the war. Needless to say, Trump will not be perceived as any kind of centrist in the 2024 general election. And indeed, unlike Nixon, if he is again the GOP nominee, Trump will benefit from a deeply stable political environment in which mobilizing a large and increasingly extremist party base will get him very close to what he needs to win, though perhaps while losing the popular vote as he did in 2016 (Nixon, meanwhile won a plurality of the popular vote in 1968). A final and most obvious difference between the two men is that after winning the presidency in 1968, Nixon went on to win reelection by a landslide in 1972; unless he undertakes a coup, Trump is done after 2024. And its very unlikely any Republican presidential candidate will win a landslide in the foreseeable future, given the partys reluctance to change its ideology to expand its base. If he does win a second term in 2024, it remains to be seen if Trump will wind up, like Nixon, a disgraced figure needing a pardon. Representative Thomas Massie speaks during a House Rules Committee hearing on the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Photo: Bonnie Cash/UPI/Shutterstock Thomas Massie drives a Tesla with a friends of coal vanity plate and walks around Capitol Hill wearing an electronic debt clock on his lapel that constantly updates the sum owed by the federal government. And, on Tuesday, the fate of the entire global economy was in his hands. The Kentucky Republican had long been an idiosyncratic gadfly among the House GOP but, because of the deal required to finally make Kevin McCarthy speaker, he was put on the powerful Rules Committee along with two members of the Freedom Caucus, Ralph Norman of South Carolina and Chip Roy of Texas. The committee has absolute authority to determine what legislation goes to the House floor and whether it can be amended. Traditionally it works as an extension of the Speaker himself and is packed with its allies. However nothing about the current Congress has been traditional. The committee was deciding whether to allow the bill to raise the debt ceiling advance to the floor of the House. If Massie voted no, there was almost unlimited potential for economic catastrophe. The reason it was a tough decision was that conservative Republicans have viewed the debt ceiling as a potential hostage for over a decade. After a showdown in 2011 that resulted in spending caps, Senator Mitch McConnell infamously said Republicans had realized its a hostage thats worth ransoming. He added a significant caveat however: Most of his members didnt think it was a hostage worth shooting. The issue this time was whether McCarthy was getting enough out of the bluff with both the Senate and the White House controlled by Democrats. Norman and Roy thought not. They were not just opposed to the bill but spoke to the press shortly before the hearing to express their opposition. They did not do this faintly or with caveats. Roy proclaimed to the crowd of reporters that the Republican conference has been torn asunder by the agreement reached by McCarthy and President Biden to raise the debt ceiling for the next two years in exchange for spending cuts far smaller than what House Republicans proposed in a bill last month. He darkly predicted that there will be a reckoning. Norman called the proposed legislation un-American. They were among the most moderate in their tone there. Andy Biggs of Arizona channeled Don King of Ohio by calling the legislation malodorous, and Lauren Boebert of Colorado called it fake news. The assembled right wingers were all framing the vote as career defining in order to try and strike fear of a primary challenge into those squishy on the legislation. In every big vote on Capitol Hill, there is a contingent of members who vote no and hope yes. This meant that, for once, the committees hearing was suspenseful. With four Democrats and two Freedom Caucus members on the 13 member committee, Massies vote would determine whether the debt ceiling deal would advance or if it would all fall apart less than a week before a potential default. Massie was not unaware of the stakes. In a room roughly the size of a one-bedroom apartment, nearly 20 photographers were intently focused on him. If he talked to his colleagues, theyd take pictures. If he was typing on his phone, theyd take pictures. If he was taking notes with his number-two pencil, theyd take pictures. When it finally came time for him to speak, Massie announced, Im reluctant to say how I might vote on this rule because then all the cameras leave to chuckles. He then took a dramatic pause which he narrated by saying dramatic pause before announcing, I anticipate voting for the rule. With that the photographers left, the room emptied, and the drama for the moment left. After all, Massie may be quirky, but hes definitely not squishy. Later that night, he told me that, after careful deliberation, he simply saw the bill as a net positive from his point of view. The engineer and problem-solver in me wanted to vote for it and the politician did not. By engineering, Im thinking of calculus and linear algebra. When I look at this logically and mathematically, the derivative is in the right direction. First elected to Congress in 2012, he said, Im just pretty binary on this. It cuts spending. Its the first bill thats going to become law that Ive ever voted for that does that. With the bill headed to the full House, the question of passing it is really about how painful it will be for McCarthy. After all, he had only been elected after 15 ballots and already Matt Gaetz, a longtime McCarthy critic, was on television warning that if a majority of Republicans voted against the deal that it would be time for a new vote for Speaker. A significant number of Republicans breaking with McCarthy and, in particular, while criticizing him in the process, would be a grievous blow. But, that just wasnt the vibe. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota, a McCarthy ally, said that a majority of the people who have concerns with the deal that theyre working through will admit they have tremendous respect for Speaker McCarthy and for his negotiating. In his view, all the chaos to get McCarthy the gavel had somehow made this easier. I am loath to say anything good about the Speakers fight, which at the time, I thought was wholly unnecessary and wholly harmful to conservative governance, Johnson said. I will now admit that the week that we had to breathe one anothers air, and talk about what Republican governance would look like, ultimately did foster some pretty meaningful bond. Even the critics of the deal were praising the Speaker. Andy Ogles, a freshman from Tennessee who was one of the holdouts during the 15 ballots and who will oppose the deal, took pains to praise him when asked. Ive been very pleased with Speaker McCarthy, quite frankly. Eric Burlison of Missouri went even further and said, Hes been fantastic. He then added that he just cant stomach the deal. This didnt mean that the usual suspects werent doing the usual complaining. Boebert described leadership after a meeting of the House GOP Conference as being unresponsive to her concerns. In her view, their attitude was sit down, little girl, we got this. But that was a reckoning that Kevin McCarthy could face. After all, Boebert never voted for him to be Speaker once. Illustration: by Zak Tebbal This article was featured in One Great Story, New Yorks reading recommendation newsletter. Sign up here to get it nightly. On February 7, Vitus Spehar, the host of a popular TikTok newscast, was invited to the White House for a State of the Union watch party. After Joe Biden concluded his address to Congress, Spehar stuck in their earbuds, cinched their blue tie, and started to livestream to TikTok from their iPhone. Oh my God. Hi, friends, were here, Spehar said. This is the real East Room of the real White House. Soon, Jill Biden dropped by to take a selfie with Spehar and the other social-media personalities there for the party. With a mischievous eyebrow flex, Spehar slipped into a hallway to check out some presidential portraits at the foot of the stairway up to Bidens private quarters. If I never get invited back, Spehar said, I was here three times. Spehar, 40, is a politically idiosyncratic nonbinary ex-caterer with a pompadour hairstyle and statement eyeglasses. Through some combination of plainspoken charm and algorithmic magic, their bright, chatty takes on current events usually delivered from a spot under a desk in their home office in Rochester took off on TikTok. They now have nearly 3 million followers and an audience in the White House. Before the 2022 midterms, Spehar shot a get-out-the-vote spot with Barack Obama. On another occasion, they visited the Oval Office. They now refer to President Biden as Joe in casual conversation, and its easy to see why the president might want to be on friendly terms. For reelection, Biden, 80, will be depending on enthusiastic support from young voters, millions of whom avidly consume and are influenced by TikTok. When Biden returned to the White House, Spehar and the rest of the group were waiting to greet him on his doorstep. He stepped out of his limousine and offered them a deep, exhausted bow. Bidens political solicitude, though, was at odds with his national-security agenda. Even as he beckoned TikTok with one hand, he was considering whether to snatch it away with the other. In his speech that night, Biden had warned that China, an increasingly aggressive geopolitical rival, intends to be dominating the technologies of the future. And though he didnt explicitly mention it, his administration was focusing intense scrutiny on TikTok, an app developed by ByteDance, a private company of Chinese origin. TikTok may well be Chinas most visibly successful software export. But American law enforcement and intelligence agencies were concerned it posed more than a competitive threat. For years, they had been warning that the app might be put to use for spying, spreading disinformation, or sowing discord. Chinese leaders have been open about their aim to strengthen what they call their nations international discourse power, rebalancing what they see as Americas advantage in defining cultural and political values. TikTok is capable of shifting the discourse with the flick of a thumb. As president, Donald Trump had tried to ban TikTok outright, only to be halted by a federal court. For Vitus Spehar, who goes by V, it was easy to write off the idea of banning TikTok as xenophobic, conservative fearmongering. After Trumps defeat, the issue had been picked up by his right-wing followers in states like Alabama and Texas, where governors have banned TikTok from government devices and public universities have kicked it off their Wi-Fi networks. Last year, at the instigation of the Missouri Republican senator Josh Hawley, the federal government enacted its own ban for its devices. But these largely symbolic attacks did little to slow TikToks growth as a business and cultural force. TikTok is now used by 150 million Americans, if you accept the companys figures, and Spehar figured it was too big to ban. It would be anti-democratic; it would be against the First Amendment, Spehar told me on the phone in February, shortly after the State of the Union. We are not a country that does that kind of stuff. But then Biden and the Democrats started to surprise them by sending hawkish signals too. For the better part of two years, the federal government had been engaged in a secretive negotiating process with TikToks corporate management. The public didnt yet know it in February, but those talks were breaking down, leaving the Biden administration in the same place where Trump left off: trying to figure out if it could drive TikTok out of existence in the United States. In Congress, bills to restrict or outlaw TikTok were flying, garnering bipartisan support, with the two parties separated only by the degree of their suspicion. There was a showdown looming in March, when the platforms Singapore-based chief executive was scheduled to stand alone before a Republican-controlled House committee for a hearing. The spectacle was sure to be punishing; one think-tank expert likened the dynamic to a human sacrifice. You could trace the route to execution back to missteps by TikToks ownership, or to Chinas confrontational foreign policy under President Xi Jinping, or to unresolved tensions in the relationship between the worlds two strongest nations. But if you were only paying attention on TikTok, it might look, in retrospect, like it had all started with the balloon. The weekend before the State of the Union, a Chinese surveillance craft blew over the U.S. After President Biden ordered the military to shoot the balloon down, he was asked if he might do the same to TikTok. Im not sure, Biden replied. I know I dont have it on my phone. Before long, the new Republican chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee rammed through his own bill and called TikTok a spy balloon in your phone. The bipartisan agitation against China appeared, to Spehar, outrageously cordial. They were starting to rethink their comfortable assumptions. Now, Spehar told me, Im in a position where Im like, Fuck, they might ban this app. By March, the momentum for draconian restrictions was starting to look unstoppable and Spehar was moved to act. They started to defend TikTok in videos that received millions of views. When TikToks embattled chief executive testified, they sat right behind him, often popping into the camera frame over his right shoulder. Spehar would go from visiting the East Room to a place of cynical distance in the span of a few news cycles. This whole idea of banning TikTok based on threats you cant prove and information you wont share, that doesnt fly, they told me. That makes me feel like you think Im not smart enough. To them, the betrayal felt personal. They had just been over to the presidents house. You put all this effort into building trust, Spehar said. Tell me, Joe, why are you doing this? President Biden greets Spehar and their fellow TikTokers at the White House on October 25, 2022. Photo: Adam Schultz/White House Biden has shown no eagerness to answer their question. The White House declined to offer any substantive comment about TikTok, though a spokesman denied there was any contradiction between embracing it as a communications medium while also attempting to suppress it. Since 2020, when a judge halted Trumps sloppy effort to ban TikTok on procedural grounds, the issue has been in the hands of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, a body made up of representatives of Cabinet departments including Treasury, Defense, and Justice as well as intelligence agencies. The committee known to policy obscurantists as CFIUS oversees transactions that are deemed to impact national security, making recommendations to the president, who possesses nearly unchecked power to disallow investments or unwind mergers. Most CFIUS reviews are quick and quiet, and they seldom rise to the level of a presidents attention. The case of TikTok, though, has placed Biden square in the middle of an irreconcilable dilemma. To one side, the president has his national-security advisers, who are expressing concern about what China could do with a technology in the pockets of 150 million Americans. To the other, the president has his political advisers, who are looking ahead to yet another election where it looks like everything will be on the line. The White House and Democratic campaign organizations including Bidens own are eager to use TikTok as a messaging vehicle, and some political operatives are reluctant to sacrifice such a potent tool. From a purely political perspective, while its nice to sound tough on China, theres a lot of ways to sound tough on China, says a Democratic digital-media consultant with ties to the Biden campaign. This is an app that every young person in America uses. We have to use it, or we will lose there. One spring afternoon, I met a social-media talent manager named Daniel Daks at a cafe on the Upper East Side. He painted TikToks potential impact on the democratic process in grandiose terms, telling me, A world where campaigns are forced to directly partner with these individuals is a world where the political Establishment needs to meet the needs of people. Daks is a preppy 32-year-old entrepreneur who started and sold one tech company before getting into the social-media-agency business. His firm, Palette Media, now represents more than 100 content creators and influencers, connecting them with advertisers like Wal-Mart for product-endorsement deals. Palette also has a marketing-consulting wing, which has carved out a niche in Democratic politics, with Daks acting as an emissary between TikTok and Washington. He represents Spehar, handling their brand relationships and public speaking, and served as a go-between when White House officials were putting together their State of the Union event with social-media influencers. This is an app that every young person in America uses. We have to use it, or we will lose there. That event was part of a broader campaign to cultivate TikTokers, whom the White House has courted with Zoom briefings and access to the president at ceremonial and private events. Axios recently reported that Rob Flaherty, the White House director of digital strategy, is attempting to recruit what the publication described as an army of influencers as part of its effort to deliver Bidens messages to young voters. Daks said his own professional involvement with Democratic politics went back to 2020, when he worked with Bidens organization, which was innovative in creating a team solely devoted to engaging social-media influencers. As both the platform and his client list have grown, Daks says he has stayed in regular contact with White House staffers who handle the administrations social-media relationships, which are poised to play an even larger role in the reelection campaign. In October, the Democratic National Committee paid $200,000 to Palette Media for its services during the midterms. Daks helped to arrange for some of his clients to attend a series of Washington events, including meetings with top Democratic congressional-campaign staffers and an audience with Obama, at which Spehar filmed their TikTok. Daks says that none of his clients, including Spehar, were compensated by the DNC for the videos they made. The $200,000, he says, was for strategic consulting services. But social-media endorsement deals sometimes for pay are an increasingly important element of political advocacy. TikTok does not accept political advertisements. (Theyre off-putting to viewers, its corporate leadership says.) We dont use TikTok at the White House, a Biden spokesperson said, in response to questions posed for this article. But it hardly matters when TikTokers are already inside the building. Instead of posting to the platform via their own accounts, candidates tend to find content creators to spread their message, either via direct relationships or by hiring someone like Daks. This is kind of the next wave of paid advertising, says a second Democratic digital-media consultant. It picked up steam last cycle, where a campaign, usually through an intermediary agency, will pay a certain amount of money to subcontract influential people on a social-media platform. Spehar, for instance, has worked with Vocal Media, an agency founded by a former Hillary Clinton 2016 staffer, on campaigns to promote adult education and to raise awareness about the federal child-tax credit. To TikTok viewers, it may not always be clear where heartfelt advocacy ends and shilling begins. Although sponsored content is supposed to be labeled as advertising on TikTok, the rules are not well enforced. But Daks says TikTok messaging is effective because it is authentic, involving real people speaking directly to audiences that trust them, and that none of his clients would jeopardize that bond by voicing political opinions they dont genuinely believe. Daks said if TikTok were banned, his clients could always move over to Instagram or YouTube, which have introduced knockoff products, but that would mean rebuilding their audience in a new place, with different tech, which might not reward their videos the same way. He said that his clients were, by nature, an anxious and superstitious lot. Imagine if your entire livelihood was at the mercy of an algorithm, he said. And now there was this added uncertainty blowing in on the geopolitical winds. The anxiety was starting to filter into the content creators were posting. Explain to the people what youre going to fucking do, a TikTok creator named Alex Pearlman screamed in a viral rant, addressed to Biden, or youre going to end up with a lot more people looking angry as fuck, like me. At first, the backlash didnt receive much notice in official circles in Washington. Only a handful of politicians use TikTok regularly. But many of their staffers do, and the political operatives most attuned to TikToks usefulness as an instrument of persuasion were in no rush to disarm unilaterally. The next generation of politically active people, says Teddy Goff, the digital director for Obamas 2012 campaign and the co-founder of the firm Precision Strategies, is going to need to understand that what it means to be politically engaged is to be involved in an information war that is not happening exclusively on TikTok but mostly on TikTok. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo who has endorsed a bipartisan bill designed to empower her department to regulate TikTok was unusually frank in expressing reservations about the downside. The politician in me thinks youre gonna literally lose every voter under 35, forever, she told Bloomberg News in March. However much I hate TikTok and I do, because I see the addiction in the bad shit that it serves kids you know, this is America. Representative Ocasio-Cortez and former president Obama have both gone under the desk to connect with voters and constituents. Representative Ocasio-Cortez and former president Obama have both gone under the desk to connect with voters and constituents. I have sympathy for the fact that weve got to meet people where they are, says Senator Mark Warner, the Virginia Democrat who chairs the Senate Intelligence Committee and who proposed the bill that would place Raimondos department in charge of regulating communications technology of nations designated as a foreign adversaries. But you know, when you have the director of National Intelligence, when you have the secretary of Defense, when you have the director of the CIA, the NSA, when all of these people and theyre all appointed by the president are all saying theres a national-security risk, I just simply say to my Democratic colleagues, are you saying that all of the folks who lead up our national-security infrastructure have got it all wrong? The national-security threats associated with TikTok are varied. Some experts are more concerned about user data that TikTok collects, which could be accessed by Chinese intelligence agencies. Some are more alert to the potential that its algorithm could spread mind-warping propaganda and misinformation. It would be naive to dismiss warnings about the Chinese Communist Partys influence over ByteDance as Red Scare rhetoric. Through their adept hacking, Chinas intelligence agencies have shown that they want to amass information about Americans. TikTok is headquartered in Singapore and Los Angeles,* but its parent company was founded in Beijing and is still largely based in China, where businesses are legally required to assist intelligence agencies. Xi Jinping recently called for businesses to join in a fight against the U.S., which he claims has contained and suppressed Chinas economy. The multinational group of executives who manage TikTok in the U.S. have put much effort and capital investment into a plan that aims to reassure policy-makers and the public that it can maintain its independence from the Chinese government. The company has proposed to hive off its U.S. operations through a $1.5 billion initiative that they have given the name Project Texas. Under the plan, which the company is already in the process of implementing, TikTok would operate as a ByteDance subsidiary in the U.S., moving its U.S. data to servers owned by the cloud-computing arm of Oracle, the Austin-based tech company. Oracle would act as a third-party monitor, building systems designed to flag unauthorized intrusions, not just by hackers but by TikTok insiders, and monitoring the apps source code, including the algorithm. But skeptics including lobbyists paid by TikToks competitors argue that the companys U.S. subsidiary is in no position to keep such promises. The main problem all the Americans working for TikTok have is they do not know, and will probably never know, what the Chinese government is accessing, says Adam Kovacevich, a former Google lobbyist who heads Chamber of Progress, an industry trade group funded by Silicon Valley. In China, private companies are conscripted to advance the countrys security needs. TikToks claims of corporate autonomy have been undermined by a series of internal leaks. In June 2022, thenBuzzFeed News reporter Emily Baker-White gained access to tapes of 80 internal meetings where TikTok executives and consultants forthrightly discussed the difficulty of keeping its parent company from interfering with its security measures. Later, an anonymous whistleblower approached Hawleys office, claiming that TikTok and ByteDance are functionally the same company and that Chinese engineers could poke into whatever they wanted. (A TikTok spokesperson contends that the tapes only captured the complex work of implementing Project Texas as it was in progress, and says the whistleblower appears to be misinformed.) In a wrongful-dismissal lawsuit filed in San Francisco in May, a Chinese-born executive who ran ByteDances engineering in the U.S. in 2017 and 2018 claimed that a special internal committee of Communist Party members within the company maintained supreme access to all its systems. (TikTok has called the claims in the ongoing lawsuit baseless.) Baker-White, who now works at Forbes, subsequently broke the news that Beijing-based ByteDance employees had planned to use TikToks geolocation capabilities to track multiple American citizens including her in an effort to determine who was leaking. The surveillance operation, which was reportedly named Project Raven, is now the subject of a Justice Department criminal probe. A TikTok spokesperson claims that the misguided plumbing job was neither authorized nor called Project Raven, and ByteDance has disavowed the employees who were involved in the surveillance, four of whom resigned or were fired. But the scandal only served to prove that TikTok could be a tool of espionage, if the people in control chose to use it that way. The surveillance scandal could not have happened at a worse time for TikTok. A warlike mood was descending in Washington. This year, the two nations have clashed over the war in Ukraine and Xis bellicose statements about unification with Taiwan. Chinese authorities have been raiding the offices of foreign companies on suspicion of spying. Were preparing to deter war on a peacetime footing, a Democratic congressional staffer who is foreign-policy specialist told me over coffee earlier this year. In mid-March, the Wall Street Journal broke the news that the Biden administration had rejected TikToks proposed Project Texas compromise. Instead, the federal negotiators were reportedly demanding that ByteDance sell TikTok to a trusted (presumably American) acquirer, which amounted to an almost impossible condition. Only a handful of companies could afford to purchase TikTok, and the obvious big-tech buyers would face antitrust issues, and China would likely have to assent because its laws designate TikToks algorithm as a trade secret that is subject to export controls. A few days later, a spokeswoman for the Chinese commerce ministry announced that her government would firmly oppose any forced divestment. The trash compactor was about to squeeze even tighter. The same day that China made its announcement, TikToks Singapore-based chief executive, Shou Zi Chew, headed to Capitol Hill for his climactic congressional committee hearing. It looked like TikTok might finally, truly, seriously be done for unless its lobbyists could engineer an escape. TikTok users posted moment-by-moment analysis of the March 23 hearing, where Spehar was seated right behind Shou and Beckerman. After the news of the breakdown in the CFIUS negotiations became public, many savvy people in Washington wondered why Shou would even bother showing up for his inevitable lashing. But TikTok pressed forward, spending lavishly on an advertising campaign targeted at policy-makers and mobilizing a horde of K Street lawyers and other well-compensated outside consultants. (Its roster of lobbyists and PR representatives reportedly has included former elected officials including onetime Senate majority leader Trent Lott, Republican of Mississippi dozens of former staffers for current Republican and Democratic leaders in Congress, a former senior adviser to Donald Trumps presidential campaigns, and SKDK, a Democratic communications and political consulting firm with close ties to the Biden administration via the D in its acronym, Anita Dunn, a firm co-founder who now works in the White House as one of the presidents closest counselors.) Digital advertising billboards at Union Station and inside the Washington Metro were lit up with messages touting TikToks corporate responsibility. Shou posted an upbeat TikTok video from the companys D.C. office, which is in a WeWork, talking about how he was looking forward to telling Congress about our mission to inspire creativity and to bring joy. At the end of the day, you know, people love TikTok, Michael Beckerman, the companys head of government relations in Washington, told me. Youre talking about the speech of 150 million Americans. To picture Beckerman, imagine what you might get if you asked OpenAI to draw you an idealized image of a tech-industry lobbyist: a handsome guy with a stubbled square jaw wearing a hoodie. A former Republican congressional-committee staffer, Beckerman worked as the head of a trade association financed by tech companies including Google and Facebook before he took charge of TikToks government relations in 2020, which brought him into conflict with his old friends. He joined right before the pandemic, the inflection point in the apps astounding growth. It is an open secret in Washington that Silicon Valley tech companiesmost notably Metahave helped to orchestrate at least some of the government pressure on TikTok. Theyve been trying to get us banned and lobbying against us and making up fake stories that have had real-world harm, Beckerman says. During the Trump administration, Mark Zuckerberg publicly warned of Chinese domination of the internet and privately urged the president to focus on TikTok, rather than on Facebooks own issues with antitrust, privacy, and content moderation. Meta reportedly engaged a Republican consulting firm called Targeted Victory to promote negative local news coverage of TikTok. Now, facing an existential threat, TikToks defenders turned to their most fearsome weapon: TikTok. The companys team put together a curated delegation of creators for an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington. Although Spehar felt conflicted about going on a lobbying expedition, they ultimately decided to accept an invitation to join. I am no bones about it, Spehar told me in Washington. Im here to fight for this platform. They attended a banquet dinner with Shou and then a morning press event on a roof deck overlooking the Capitol. The creators split into groups and headed to the Hill like school kids with lobbyists and TikTok flaks acting as chaperones. I dont think there is a lobbyist that I know that is not on TikToks payroll at this point. Spehar knew the territory of Capitol Hill well. They had once worked for a D.C. catering company, serving drinks to hungry, impatient politicians. Spehar grew up in a Republican family in a blue-collar part of Connecticut. They voted for John McCain in 2008 and helped to run the catering for the 2012 Republican National Convention. Spehar had fond memories of Mitt Romney, who was a gracious client. Spehar only became a Democrat because Obama supported gay marriage. When they joined TikTok in 2020 around the time they were furloughed from a job at the James Beard Foundation and moved upstate to escape pandemic Brooklyn they started by posting jokey home-cooking fails. They only stumbled into political commentary on January 6, 2021. As rioters stormed the Capitol, they crawled under their desk and filmed a whispered appeal to Mike Pence, explaining the provisions of the 25th Amendment. The bit became a brand: Under the Desk News. On Capitol Hill, Spehar kept getting stopped by young staffers asking for selfies. But the reception from their bosses was chilly. Spehar had done TikToks there before and had always found members of Congress were eager to engage, but now that the subject was TikTok itself, no one was talkative. In the Senate Rotunda, Spehar was filming as Amy Klobuchar came out of a luncheon. They locked eyes for a moment. That was a no, Spehar said into the phone. As their group of creators lingered in a basement corridor near the Senate subway, Romney strode down the hall with a pair of aides, brushing right past the colorfully dressed TikTok contingent without a word. Remember when I used to work for you, Spehar muttered, and you werent such an asshole? The next morning, Spehar put on a turquoise suit with a Warhol-style banana pin in the lapel and followed Shou Chew into the Rayburn House Office Building, where they were met by a scrum of elbowing camera crews and shouting reporters. Inside the Energy and Commerce Committee hearing room, Spehar sat in the second row, right behind Beckerman and Shou. For four and a half brutal hours, Shou was questioned about colleagues who were members of the Chinese Communist Party. (We dont know the political affiliations of our employees, he claimed.) He was asked about reports that TikTok censors videos on subjects sensitive to China. (We do not remove that kind of content, he replied.) He was repeatedly interrogated about surveillance of journalists. (I dont think spying is the right way to describe it, he said.) A Democrat who was a pediatrician decried the endless mindless scrolling that was keeping kids awake well past their bedtimes. A Republican pointed to the sobbing parents of TikTok user who died by suicide and said the platform had destroyed their lives. This is rough, Spehar told me during a break in the proceedings. The near-universal reaction in Washington held that Shou had bungled any chance TikTok might have had to save itself. That was a catastrophe of a hearing, Hawley told me afterward. Hawley had introduced a bill to outlaw TikTok, and his view was widely shared. A tech-industry lobbyist told me: Its not clear to me that Ive watched a bigger debacle. On TikTok, though, the discourse was shaped differently. Creators at home spliced up videos ridiculing the committee members more dunderheaded questions. Spehars coverage from the hearing received millions of views. Videos posted to Shous personal account, @shou.time, went viral. On March 29, the CEOs account surpassed a million followers; six days later, he hit 3 million. Shou Chew stans made animated videos on Capcut a popular video-editing app that is also owned by ByteDance depicting the CEO as a handsome superhero. Suddenly, TikTok was no longer so friendless. Lizzo issued a communique on her social platforms decrying Shous interrogation and likening proposals to ban TikTok to the revival of Jim Crow era laws in Mississippi and legislation to ban drag shows. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, arguably the most popular and skillful messenger on the left, released a TikTok soon after the hearing saying she opposed a ban without more evidence of wrongdoing. A counterreaction to TikTok regulation formed among some conservatives, who express paranoia about giving the government the power to deplatform. This is not an effort to push back against China, Tucker Carlson said on Fox News, shortly before he was fired. Its part of a strategy to make America much more like China with the government in charge of what you read and see and with terrifying punitive powers at their fingertips. When Hawley attempted to press forward with his bill to ban TikTok on the Senate floor, another Republican, the libertarian Rand Paul, stood to oppose it on free-speech grounds. If Republicans want to continuously lose elections for a generation, Paul said, they should pass this bill to ban TikTok. I am no bones about it, Spehar told me in Washington. Im here to fight for this platform. During their visit to Capitol Hill, Spehar and some other creators secured a closed-door meeting with some staffers who worked for Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, the New York Democrat. Spehar told an aide to the senator, who has supported restrictive legislation, that Democrats who angered TikTok could face primary challenges. I saw a little light in her eyes, they said afterward, even to say the word primaried. A few days later, the staff of Ocasio-Cortez got in touch with Spehar, and within weeks, Spehar and AOC crawled under the congresswomans desk, filming as they cheerfully talked up her agenda. Im going to tell you what: I would fuckin ride for AOC, Spehar said. Their feelings about Biden were more conflicted. In April, Spehar was in Washington again for parties surrounding the White House Correspondents Dinner. They told me that they had run into the reporter from Axios who wrote the story about Bidens army of influencers, and related that the reporter told them that their name was on a list of TikTok personalities the White House felt they could count on to support the president. I am not doing that, Spehar said. When I talked to the lobbyist who had called the hearing a debacle a couple of months later, he said he might have been wrong. Maybe in a sort of jujitsu kind of way it helped them in the end, he said. The Republicans had overreached, the Democrats had gotten nervous, and TikTok had danced away again. If you happen to think as many technologists and policy experts do that the most worrisome thing about TikTok is its potency as an influence machine, then the overnight emergence of a mass movement to fend off a challenge to its survival offered a perverse proof of concept. It was like TikTok and ByteDance, its owners, flipped a switch and spent a hundred million dollars, said Mark Warner. He toiled during the early part of this year to gather support for his bill, the RESTRICT Act. By giving the executive branch explicit authority to regulate social media from adversary nations, the legislation is designed to remove any doubt about the legality of a TikTok ban while trying to avoid singling it out. That would potentially violate the Constitution, which prohibits laws that target individuals for punishment. Thirteen Republicans in the Senate signed on as co-sponsors to Warners bill, and the White House got behind it. Warner says things were almost going too well. The bill was then referred to a Senate committee chaired by Maria Cantwell, a Washington State Democrat who has reservations about its implications for civil liberties. American tech companies have reportedly raised objections, too, arguing that the bill was too broadly written. But Warner said he believed his colleagues were mainly reacting to TikToks pervasive influence campaign. I dont think there is a lobbyist that I know that is not on TikToks payroll at this point, he said. For now, TikTok appears to have outlasted Congress, which has roughly the same attention span as a screen-addled teenager. That leaves the issue back where it started, with the White House and a divided Democratic Party. Meanwhile, the rest of the country could hardly be bothered to worry about the geopolitical dispute. Most Americans didnt appear to care about international discourse power or the fate of Taiwan. They were just scrolling away on their Chinese-made iPhones. During the months I worked on this story, I was often struck by a feeling that the conversation about TikTok was taking place in two separate nodes. Outside Washington, when I talked to TikTok users I know from everyday life, it seemed clear that they were perfectly aware of, and unperturbed by, the possibility that they were being watched. They often asked how TikToks data collection was functionally any different from what Google, Amazon, Meta, and every other big internet company did as a matter of routine business practice. Disinformation? American platforms spread it without penalty. People asked: What makes TikTok so different? One simple answer, of course, is that it is from China. Skeptics say that no company can thrive in China without the favor of its government, the Communist Party, and ultimately Xi Jinping, who has shown his willingness to purge disobedient entrepreneurs. (The classic example is Alibabas Jack Ma, once the richest man in China, who was crushed, and disappeared for a time, after he criticized the government.) ByteDances founder, Zhang Yiming, was compelled to apologize for failing to uphold core socialist values after the content posted on ByteDance apps drew the ire of Chinese regulators. (One app was reportedly accused of spreading pornographic and vulgar information while another was said to cause strong dislike among internet users.) Zhang has since left his role as chief executive, and Chinese government representatives have taken seats on the board of an important ByteDance subsidiary in China. The U.S. does not want to annoy 100 million Americans. The Chinese do not want to give up their crown jewel. There is little evidence that the Chinese governments involvement in ByteDances management has so far had any effect on TikTok. Beckerman says that, as a corporate entity, ByteDance is just as American as it is Chinese, pointing out that its largest shareholders include several U.S.-based venture-capital firms. One of its earliest investors was Susquehanna International Group, a Pennsylvania fund whose co-founders include a pair of billionaire Republican megadonors. Even TikToks opponents acknowledge that much of the personal information about Americans that the app collects could be obtained from other sources, like private-sector data brokers. At the hearing, Shou endorsed privacy legislation that would apply to all internet companies, a common-sense proposal that has been stalled for years in Congress. Other data-security concerns ought to be addressable by a technological approach along the lines of Project Texas, if ByteDance implements the plan as promised a big if. But the unaddressable problem with TikTok, in the view of many policy experts, is the very thing that makes it so popular: its recommendation engine. If a country that is adversarial to the United States can control what millions of Americans are looking at, says Representative Mike Gallagher, the Republican chairman of the House Select Committee on China, I have to believe that the government has a compelling interest in addressing that. The senior Democrat on the China committee, Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, has joined Gallagher to co-sponsor yet another bill to ban TikTok. This is where the movement to curtail TikTok runs into its most formidable obstacle: the First Amendment. A long line of Supreme Court decisions have held that the Constitution protects the right to listen, and not just the right to speak, says Jameel Jaffer, director of the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University. And that right extends even to information that the government considers to be propaganda. James Andrew Lewis, a technology expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies who was in contact with both sides of the negotiation between the government and the company, told me, We really dont have the legal authority to ban TikTok. Biden could invoke his executive powers to order ByteDance to divest, but if it refuses, the matter would go to court, leading to years of unpredictable litigation. Meanwhile, it would remain free to go about its business, acquiring more users, more influence, more data. That is why Lewis thinks there is still room for a deal. The U.S. does not want to annoy 100 million Americans, Lewis said. The Chinese do not want to give up their crown jewel. Perhaps, he suggested, some version of Project Texas could work under the control of an oversight board stocked with retired American generals and intelligence chiefs. On the other hand, this was Washington, so stasis was also an alternative. The question now is, Lewis said, has this become so politicized that there is no solution that will work? Republicans will be happy to exploit the inaction, since TikTok offers them a perfect opportunity for demagoguery, allowing them to attack China and the Democrats while simultaneously pleasing screen-phobic parents. The governor of Montana recently signed a bill to banish the TikTok from the state entirely, over objections that a one-state ban would be technologically impossible. A group of litigants are now suing the state on First Amendment grounds. Gallagher concedes that the constitutional issues are very complex. But he argues that China is preparing for cognitive warfare, and TikToks algorithm is a technological instrument a piece of code, not speech. If anything, its opponents say, TikTok poses a danger to free expression. The Chinese government uses intimidation and censorship to silence dissent. (TikTok itself is unwelcome in China; ByteDance instead markets a similar app that directs users to wholesome subjects like science.) One of the most compelling pieces of evidence of manipulation is a study by the progressive organization Accelerate Change. It recruited two dozen creators to make TikTok videos urging Democrats to get out to vote in the 2022 elections. One set of videos included election-related hashtags and captions; the second set was identical, except the messages were delivered only on a handwritten sign. The handwritten ones received more than twice as much traffic, suggesting that the algorithm was turning down the volume on political hashtags and other detectable text. (TikTok questions the results of the study, claiming its authors declined to provide the research and methodology in detail.) If the dial can go one way, though, it can also twist in the other direction. Earlier this year, the reporter Baker-White published a story reporting the existence of a heating system that allows humans at TikTok to manually amplify certain content on the platform. That does make you wonder about the popularity of the videos posted by @shou.time and raises questions about what else the people at TikToks controls might choose to serve its users in the future. All these things, in my mind, conspire to create the potential for TikTok to have a massive impact on what information we see, our own sense of national identity, and potentially influence future elections, Gallagher says. We have to ask ourselves, do we want to give the Chinese Communist Party that amount of power? I dont care, and I think that the American people dont care, Spehar said one drizzly morning at their loft apartment in Rochester. They told me they were eager for the controversy to blow over so they could go back to talking to their audience about other things. I think the world is too scary, they said, as they tried to explain the appeal of their show. Were going to get under the desk and try to find a safe space, try to find a space where things can make sense. But Bidens contradictory attitude toward TikTok was something they couldnt figure out. I was there for you, they said, addressing Biden, and now I feel like youre choosing the thoughts and feelings and opinions of people who arent on your side. We walked into their office, and both climbed down on the floor to film a TikTok. (A few days later, one of my neighbors would shout to me from his car as I walked my dog: I saw you Under the Desk!) When we were on our feet, Spehar pointed out that everything involved in the process of shooting the video their iPhone, the cheap plastic stand that they mounted it in, the desk itself, a mid-century-modern knockoff purchased from Target most likely was made in China. Its hard to care about China, Spehar said, because every single thing in my house right now is from China. Maybe the only thing of note in their office that wasnt was a framed letter from Biden, thanking Spehar for attending a big bill-signing ceremony in October. I am grateful for all the ways you are using your platform, they read aloud from the letter. When hes saying your platform, Spehar said, thats TikTok. *This article has been updated to reflect the locations of TikToks headquarters. One Great Story: A Nightly Newsletter for the Best of New York The one story you shouldnt miss today, selected by New Yorks editors. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. 9 items in this article Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photos: Retailers For this weeks Dont Dillydally, weve surfaced a range of things were sure will sell out including A24s kids tees, Super Yayas whimsical capsule collection with Gohar World, and Supergoop!s new lippies. A24 x Rop van Mierlo Lamb Watercolor Kids Tee $30 For cinephile tykes, a line of kids tees from the studio behind such films as Uncut Gems and You Hurt My Feelings. The shirts were created in collaboration with artist Rop van Mierlo, and each one features a watercolor rendition of animals from A24 films, including Raccacoonie from Everything Everywhere All at Once, the fox from The Green Knight, Baby Ada from Lamb, and the Midsommar bear. $30 at A24 Buy Clothing brand RHODE has teamed up with West Elm, to release a slate of homewares including bedding and pillows, as well as tablescape stables for all your summer dinner-party needs. The collection features the labels signature bold patterns and lots of fanciful scalloping. Gohar World x Super Yaya Bottle Basket $298 $298 You can always count on Laila Gohar for extravagant kitchenware (like silk baguette bags and bonbon bonnets). This month, Gohar World has collaborated with clothing brand Super Yaya for a capsule collection that includes a checked bottle basket, a cross-body flower bag, and a picnic basket, all of which are made from 100 percent bazin, a cotton fabric that is naturally dyed by local artisans in Cote dIvoire before being sent to Beirut, where each item is handwoven and assembled at the Super Yaya atelier. $298 at Gohar World Buy Sixpenny Enzo Console Table $3,999 Sixpenny, known for its chic slipcovered sofas, has released a line of console tables to outfit the rest of your living room. There are seven styles to choose from, including the sculptural option, above, made from Turkish travertine. $3,999 at Sixpenny Buy get the strategist newsletter Actually good deals, smart shopping advice, and exclusive discounts. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us. The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) The Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) affirmed an earlier decision to clear Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa and her media company Rappler Holdings Corporation (RHC) of tax evasion. The CTA First Division, in a May 18 resolution released to the media only on Wednesday, said it finds no compelling reason to reverse or modify its Jan. 18 ruling. It denied for lack of merit the motion for reconsideration filed by the prosecution, which said the court misapprehended the facts of the case when it acquitted the accused. The prosecution maintained that Ressa and RHC should be held civilly liable and be required to pay the alleged deficiency income tax and value-added tax for 2015. In the 11-page resolution, the CTA cited the finality-of-acquittal doctrine, which states that a judgment of acquittal can no longer be reconsidered since it violates the constitutional provision against double jeopardy. It also pointed out that it exhaustively discussed and resolved the issues raised by the prosecution, including on Ressa and Rapplers supposed civil liability. In its January decision, the court said the unpaid tax obligation charges have not been factually and legally proven. Not having been found liable for said deficiency taxes, no civil liability may be imposed upon the accused," read the more recent verdict penned by Associate Justice Catherine Manahan. "To reiterate, the accused was found not to be guilty of the acts and omissions charged." The court also said it will no longer belabor the justifications and discussions made in disposing of said issues as these will merely repeat the disquisitions and rulings. Ressa and Rappler's acquittal in January came over four years after the Bureau of Internal Revenue filed the complaints against them, and after the Department of Justice filed the cases in court in 2018 during the Duterte administration. yay good for her. i really like her and idc about the australia drama so good for her for boosting her resume Reply Thread Link My MAGA queen No but seriously shes a a very talented actress. I dont mess with Euphoria so always glad to watch her some place else. Shes headlining the NRA annual convention in Missoula so Im thinking about flying up there. She said on Insta shes been practicing her trickshots. Reply Thread Link Shes what now?! Reply Parent Thread Link Where? I cant see it on her insta Reply Parent Thread Link lol it's not true Reply Parent Thread Link Jesus Christ ty good sis. Reply Parent Thread Link i'm watching it now and actually it's a bit tedious the way it's set up, and she's got a lot of the same mannerisms in euphoria but not as over the top so it's pretty meh Reply Thread Link I dont get the hype with her yet. I've only seen her in white lotus. Reply Thread Link Ive seen her in White Lotus but first in Everything Sucks! and Handmaids Tale and Sharp Objects. Shes very good. I havent seen Euphoria Reply Parent Thread Link I love everyone who starred in Sharp Objects and I thought she did well in it. Very different from her character in Euphoria. Reply Parent Thread Link I watched it this AM (home sick getting over a monster case of COVID) and I found it much more compelling than I expected to. She was well cast and I learned a lot about Reality Winner that I didnt know. She was a bright woman and what she did was technically wrong, but The Intercept did her dirty. I hope history views her with a more forgiving lens. Reply Thread Link She was well cast acting wise and knocked that out of park. The part where she was talking about how she does upper body and benches 195 with her tiny frame and lack of muscle definition, I looked up the actual Reality Winner and realized Sydney is laughably nowhere as strong as the actual person she was portraying. Which you can say doesnt matter but Reality was a trained soldier so I felt at the fact they casted a tiny ingenue blonde. Reply Parent Thread Link Learn more about LiveJournal Ratings in Hello! Your entry got to top-25 of the most popular entries in LiveJournal!Learn more about LiveJournal Ratings in FAQ Reply Thread Link Im so glad shes getting her due. Been a fan for a few years now and always thought she was underrated. Shes so good Reply Thread Link My 2 thoughts: 1. I cant believe Reality Winner is someones name. 2. Never talk to law enforcement without a lawyer! (Im sure they would have found her guilty without her confessing but still.. dont give yourself up like that.) Edited at 2023-05-31 02:29 am (UTC) Reply Thread Link She seems like she'd be really annoying irl. Idk how much of that is based on the tabloid stuff (complaining about her salary, MAGA family, cheating rumors) and how much is just jealousy because she's so pretty. But she seems to be really talented with a great acting range, and I have a feeling she'll be a long-lasting A-lister if she doesn't screw it up. Reply Thread Link she's hot Reply Thread Link In the latest ambitious project to use solar energy in space for powering the earth, a public-private Japanese partnership plans to test as soon as in 2025 if solar power generated in space can be beamed to the earth and converted into electricity. The Japanese venture is the latest in a series of plans and experiments in recent months to test if solar power converted into microwaves could be beamed to receiving stations on the earths surface for large-scale use. Scientists and science fiction writers have long dreamed of such a solar energy source: harnessing the suns energy regardless of weather or the time of day or night. This would overcome the constraints for solar power on earth, where generation can take place only when the sun shines. In addition, microwaves can pass through clouds, so beaming the energy via microwaves to the earth would not pose limits to solar energy due to weather conditions or the time of day. The limits, of course, are the technology to do this at mass scale and the costs. The cost to install massive solar panels in space to generate 1 gigawatt (GW) of electricity is expected to cost more than $7.2 billion (1 trillion Japanese yen), Nikkei Asia reports. Still, researchers led by Kyoto University professor Naoki Shinohara will try to beam solar power to Earth to potentially prove that solar energy harnessed in space can be used for electricity needs on Earth. Japans project involving industry, scientists, and the government space agency carried out successful tests of microwave power transmission horizontally in 2015 and vertically in 2018, both over a distance of 50 meters (164 ft). Vertical transmission with distances between 1 km and 5 km (0.62-3.1 miles) will be attempted in the future. Related: Visualizing All New Renewables Projects In The U.S. In 2023 If we can demonstrate our technology ahead of the rest of the world, it will also be a bargaining tool for space development with other countries, Shinohara told Nikkei. The race for generating solar power in space and beaming it back to Earth is heated. More than two years ago, the Pentagon successfully tested a solar panel in low-earth orbit as a prototype of potential future power-generating systems capturing light from the sun and beaming it back as energy to Earth. Early this year, the Caltech Space Solar Power Project (SSPP) launched the Transporter-6 mission, launching in orbit a prototype, dubbed the Space Solar Power Demonstrator (SSPD), which will test several key components of an ambitious plan to harvest solar power in space and beam the energy back to Earth. When fully realized, SSPP will deploy a constellation of modular spacecraft that collect sunlight, transform it into electricity, then wirelessly transmit that electricity over long distances wherever it is neededincluding to places that currently have no access to reliable power, Caltech said in January. China also has ambitious plans to build a solar power station in space at a GW-level, which will make the project operational for commercial use, Chinese experts told the Global Times in April. Also in April, the European Space Agency (ESA) signed contracts for two parallel concept studies for commercial-scale Space-Based Solar Power plantsa crucial step in the Agencys new SOLARIS initiative maturing the feasibility of gathering solar energy from space for terrestrial clean energy needs. The studies will look at as wide a range of options as possible, including investigating all the different ways to move the energy, safely and efficiently, down to Earth: radio frequency transmission, lasers and simply reflecting sunlight down to solar farms on the ground, said Sanjay Vijendran, ESAs lead for the SOLARIS proposal. ADVERTISEMENT According to ESA, the concept complements rather than competes with terrestrial renewables, because Space-Based Solar Power can make power available reliably on an ongoing 24/7 basis, providing much-needed stability to the electricity grid as the share of intermittent renewables continues to increase, reducing dependence on large-scale storage solutions. With the energy crisis, net-zero targets, and issues with land availability for renewable power installations, space solar power could be part of the solution in the future, if technology and costs allow for it. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Colombias economically crucial energy patch is facing a grave crisis due to its shortage of proven oil and natural gas reserves coupled with leftist President Gustavo Petros plan to end awarding new exploration contracts. The Andean countrys hydrocarbon sector was hit particularly hard by the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic and has yet to recover. March 2023 oil production of 771,732 barrels a day was significantly less than the 884,876 barrels per day pumped for the same month four years earlier. Latest developments indicate Colombias economically vital oil patch may never return to a pre-pandemic operational tempo and production volumes. As a result of Petros plans to end awarding new exploration contracts and ban hydraulic fracturing, investment is falling, drilling activity is in decline, and international energy companies are even exiting Colombia. The latest news, which represents a considerable blow to Colombias oil industry, is the disappointing announcement from the Ministry of Mines and Energy that the Andean countrys reserves are not growing at the pace required. According to the ministrys statement (Spanish) oil reserves only expanded by 1.7% year-over-year to a meager 2.074 billion barrels of oil with a commercial life of 7.5 years at the current rate of production. Of greater concern is proven natural gas reserves, which plunged by 11% compared to a year ago to 2.82 trillion cubic feet, only enough to support production for 7.2 years. Those meager reserves are incapable of supporting Colombias economically crucial hydrocarbon sector over the long term. The lack of hydrocarbon reserves and their short production life has the potential to roil Colombias oil-dependent economy. Related: WTI Plunges Below $70 With U.S. Debt Deal In Jeopardy A key issue to emerge is that vital capital spending in Colombias energy patch is falling. According to the countrys leading industry body, the Colombian Petroleum Association (ACP Spanish), private investment in exploration (Spanish) during 2023 will fall by a third compared to last year, hitting $650 million to $700 million. That decline is reduced to 4% year-over-year, when increased exploration spending by national oil company Ecopetrol is accounted for, or $1.24 billion compared to $1.29 billion during 2022. Such a sharp reduction in investment will lead to reduced exploration and oilfield development activity thereby weighing on reserves and production volumes at a crucial time for Colombia. This has been an ongoing problem since the price of oil collapsed in late-2014. Colombias oil industry regulator, the National Hydrocarbon Agency (ANH Spanish initials), released data showing the volume of wells (Spanish) being drilled in Colombia cratered after 2014. During that year, when Brent averaged $98.97 per barrel, 113 wells, 112 onshore and one offshore, were drilled. A year later, in 2015, when Brent averaged $52.32 a barrel, a mere 25 wells, 23 onshore and two offshore, were completed. The volume of wells being drilled plunged to an annual multiyear low of 20 during 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic caused oil prices to plunge into negative territory for the first time ever and Brent averaged $41.96 a barrel. Drilling activity only significantly recovered when oil prices soared, after Russias invasion of Ukraine, to a multi-year high of 68 wells, 66 onshore and two offshore. Regulator data shows that 10 wells were completed for the first two months of 2023, and industry body the ACP predicts 55 to 60 exploratory wells will be drilled in Colombia this year. According to the Baker Hughes Rig Count, by the end of April 2023, there were 31 active rigs in Colombia a decrease of three compared to a month earlier and the same number as a year earlier. Those numbers point to a sharp drop in activity in Colombias oil patch which doesnt bode well for higher production or the ability to boost meager reserves. This is threatening Colombias long-term energy security and the future outlook for the hydrocarbon-dependent economy which is vulnerable to weaker oil prices and declining production. The considerable risks created by a lack of exploration success and meager proven reserves are magnified by many of Colombias primary producing oil fields being mature with rising decline rates. That means they are reliant on enhanced recovery methods such as waterflood, and gas injection to sustain production. This is impacting efforts by Bogota, the ANH, and ACP as well as other industry bodies to lift production so that it returns to pre-pandemic levels of nearly 900,000 barrels per day. Colombian government as well as industry data underscores how dependent the economy is on oil. Official statistics agency DANE shows that petroleum was responsible for (Spanish) a third of exports by value during 2022, while for the same year the hydrocarbon sector was responsible for 2.6% of gross domestic product. Colombias oil industry is a key source of income for the national government in Bogota. A decade ago, petroleum, after including dividend income from 88% state-controlled Ecopetrol was responsible for a fifth of fiscal revenue, while that amount has fallen in recent years it amounted to 14% of fiscal revenue for 2022. The proportion of government revenue contributed by Colombias oil industry will only increase after Petros November 2022 tax hikes. It is Bogotas reliance on oil revenues that has sparked speculation that Petro will not proceed with his plan to end hydrocarbon exploration in Colombia. This was fueled by Energy Minister Irene Velez reportedly avoiding answering questions from journalists as to whether the Petro administration will issue new exploration and production contracts after the productive life of Colombias proven oil reserves declined. Any immediate move to end oil exploration and production has the potential to damage Colombias oil-dependent economy which is an important part of the Andean countrys post-pandemic economic recovery. According to the International Monetary Fund, Colombias gross domestic product grew by a stunning 11% in 2021 and then 7.5% during 2022, but that will fall to a mere 1% in 2023 with a lack of energy investment and dwindling oil production weighing on the economy. In an effort to assuage the worries of energy investors, the ANH has proposed expanding deadlines, for drilling timetables, for oil and natural gas exploration projects to attract greater interest from foreign energy investors. The regulatory agency also suggested providing energy companies with greater contractual flexibility when forced to declare force majeure. These latest developments indicate that Petro may be rethinking his plan with regard to ending hydrocarbon exploration in Colombia, and even may implement a more gradual and pragmatic policy. By Matthew Smith for Oilprice.com ADVERTISEMENT More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Climate activists have scored yet another victory against Big Oil after Norways giant sovereign wealth fund announced it will support proposals by ExxonMobil Corp. (NYSE:XOM) and Chevron Corp. (NYSE:CVX) shareholders at their annual general meetings (AGMs) on Wednesday to introduce emissions targets. With $1.4 trillion in assets, Norway's wealth fund is the largest in the world, and its voice on matters like these carries plenty of weight. The fund is the sixth-largest investor in Exxon with a nearly 1.2% stake. The move comes barely a week after climate protesters unleashed chaos at TotalEnergies (NYSE:TTE) AGM in Paris which saw shareholders back a motion calling for the French energy giant to speed up cuts to its greenhouse gas emissions. Similarly, in what is now shaping up as another wave of climate fervor, protesters stormed Shell Plcs (NYSE:SHEL) AGM last week, accusing the Dutch national oil company of "killing" the planet and calling for it to be "shut down". Its a startling turn of events for oil and gas shareholders considering that last year, there was a palpable shift in sentiment with climate activism and ESG taking a back seat amid the global energy crisis. Shifting Sentiment The year 2021 proved to be a watershed moment for oil and gas companies in the global transition to clean energy, with Big Oil losing a series of boardroom and courtroom battles in the hands of hardline climate activists. In May 2021, ExxonMobil lost three board seats to Engine No. 1, an activist hedge, in a stunning proxy campaign. Engine No. 1 demanded that Exxon needs to cut fossil fuel production for the company to position itself for long-term success. "What we're saying is, plan for a world where maybe the world doesn't need your barrels," Engine No.1 leader Charlie Penner told the Financial Times. Engine No. 1 enjoyed a stunning victory thanks to support from BlackRock Inc. (NYSE: BLK), Vanguard and State Street who all voted against Exxons leadership. Next was its close peer Chevron with no less than 61% of Chevron shareholders voting to further cut emissions at the companys annual investor meeting and rebuffing the companys board which had urged shareholders to reject it. Finally, a Dutch court ordered Shell Plc to cut its greenhouse gas emissions harder and faster than it had previously planned. Never mind the fact that Shell had already pledged to cut GHG emissions by 20% by 2030 and to net-zero by 2050. The court in The Hague determined that wasnt good enough and demanded a 45% cut by 2030 compared to 2019 levels. The past two years have been especially challenging for Shell shareholders after the company announced a major dividend cut with the quarterly dividend falling to 16 cents from 47 cents, the first dividend cut since WWII. Meanwhile, the companys debt had ballooned massively from $1bn in 2005 to $73bn in 2020. Related: Oil Markets Shocked By Across the Board Inventory Builds Luckily for these oil and gas supermajors, last year, investor sentiment shifted in their favor. In May 2022, Exxon recorded a major victory after its shareholders supported the company's energy transition strategy at the annual general meeting. Only 28% of the participants backed a resolution filed by the Follow This activist group urging faster action to battle climate change; a proposal calling for a report on low carbon business planning received just 10.5% support while a report on plastic production garnered a 37% favorable vote. Following in the footsteps of its larger peer, in June, Chevron shareholders voted against a resolution asking the company to adopt greenhouse gas emissions reductions targets, indicating support for the steps the company already has taken to address climate change. Just 33% of shareholders voted in favor of the proposal, according to preliminary figures disclosed by the company, a sharp turnaround from last year when 61% of shareholders voted to support a similar proposal. Encouraged by the previous years victories including rules that made it easier to put public policy-related questions on proxy ballots, an analysis by the Conference Board of data supplied by Esgauge revealed that last year, climate activists filed nearly 400 environmental and social proposals with member companies of the Russell 3000 index. However, the share of support for environmental proposals dropped from 37% in 2021 to 33% in 2022, reflecting a growing aversion by asset managers to tying managers hands on climate-related issues. Russias invasion of Ukraine has also forced investors and companies to think more about energy security. But its now becoming increasingly clear that climate activists are not about to go down without a fight. And, more and more institutional investors are becoming powerful climate advocates. Two years ago, New York Citys Mayor Bill de Blasio and Comptroller Scott M. Stringer sent shockwaves through the oil and gas sector after they announced that the citys $226B pension fund plans to divest majority of its fossil fuel investments over the next five years and also cut ties with other companies that have been contributing to global warming. Around the same time, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, a family foundation built on one of the worlds biggest oil fortunes, followed suit by announcing that it would ditch its oil and gas investments and cease making any new investments going forward. The $5-billion foundation was initially carved from oil money in the 19th century by John D. Rockefellers son of Standard Oil fame. ADVERTISEMENT Finally, BlackRock Inc.(NYSE:BLK) CEO Larry Fink said he would start to pressure companies to do a lot more to lower their carbon emissions by leveraging the massive weight of his mammoth asset base. BlackRock is the worlds largest asset manager with $9.1 trillion in assets under management (AUM). As you might expect, opponents of boardroom activism have dismissed the latest move from Norway's wealth fund while clean energy buffs welcomed them as a beacon for the growing fossil fuel divestment movement. But at least oil and gas investors can take some comfort in that these companies are not likely to run out of backers any time soon, with private equity firms gladly stepping in as more traditional financiers balk. By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: In another blow to the only LNG export facility in Europes top gas producer, Norway, energy major Equinor on Wednesday shut down the Hammerfest LNG plant due to a gas leak. The Hammerfest plant was evacuated, and no injuries of personnel have been reported, a spokesperson for Equinor told Reuters, confirming a police report on the incident earlier in the day. The leak has been identified and work is ongoing to establish the extent of it, local police said early on Wednesday. The local fire department also responded to the incident, the police added. It was not immediately clear when the plant could resume operations. Hammerfest, which at full capacity accounts for 5% of Norways natural gas exports, has been plagued by incidents and operational issues in recent years. Hammerfest LNG, which receives gas from the Snhvit field operated by Equinor, was offline for a year and a half after a fire at the facility in September 2020. The plant, Europes only large-scale LNG export facility, resumed operations in March 2022. The plant was again taken offline in early May 2023, due to a compressor failure, and was offline until May 19. It was also shut down for a previous leak in March. In December 2022, Equinor submitted a plan for development and operation (PDO) of Snhvit Future on behalf of the Snhvit partnership to the Minister of Petroleum and Energy. The Snhvit partners will invest NOK 13.2 billion ($1.17 billion) in upgrading the Hammerfest LNG plant, HLNG, at Melkya. Snhvit Future is expected to strengthen Norways position as a reliable and long-term supplier of LNG to Europe. The project will secure long-term operations and gas exports from Melkya towards 2050, Equinor says. ADVERTISEMENT Norways Equinor is now the single biggest provider of natural gas to Europe after Russias Gazprom cut off most of its supply to the EU after the Russian invasion of Ukraine early last year. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Indonesia is set to place caps on exports of liquefied natural gas, adding the commodity to a list of critical raw materials subject to export controls. The purpose of the potential limits is to secure sufficient supply for domestic consumption, Bloomberg reports, citing an Indonesian government official. We believe that this policy will have a positive impact in meeting domestic energy needs, encouraging domestic industry growth, and maintaining existing export commitments, Jodi Mahardi, deputy coordinating minister for maritime sovereignty and energy, said. He noted, however, that there were no plans to completely halt exports of liquefied natural gas. The export curbs would also lower domestic gas prices, according to the countrys coordinating minister for maritime affairs and investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan. Indonesia is the worlds sixth-largest LNG exporter, according to shipping data cited by Bloomberg, with exports totalling 15 million tons last year. To affect the export caps, the Indonesian government could ban extensions of existing contracts for exports of LNG or the conclusion of new ones, Pandjaitan told media. According to Bloomberg, contracts for the export of some 10 million tons of liquefied natural gas annually from Indonesia are set to expire by 2030. The renewed focus on ensuring sufficient volumes of LNG for domestic consumption followed last years global LNG squeeze that led to soaring prices. These were felt particularly acutely in Asia, where poorer nations could not afford LNG cargos and were forced to switch to coal as the blackouts began. Unlike most Asian nations, Indonesia has its own LNG supply but demand for the superchilled fuel remains strong, especially after prices eased off last years high. This in turn means the temptation of ever-growing exports must be strong for Indonesian LNG producers, threatening domestic supply security the way it did in Australia. ADVERTISEMENT By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: LINCOLN Nebraska gas stations will soon be required to offer fuel blended with up to 15% ethanol. State lawmakers passed Legislative Bill 562 in a 46-0 vote Tuesday, sending it to Gov. Jim Pillen's desk for his signature. If signed, the law will take effect in late August, 90 days after the session ends on Thursday. While the bill spurred some opposition in previous rounds with the main criticism being that it represented government overreach the final round of debate was quick, with no lawmakers speaking for or against the measure. Corn is one of the largest components of Nebraska's agriculture industry, and ethanol makes up one of the biggest shares of that. According to the Nebraska Corn Board, the state's 24 ethanol plants use more than 750 million bushels of corn annually. The plants are able to produce over 2 billion gallons of the fuel, and Nebraska is the nation's second-largest ethanol producer. Even so, State Sen. Myron Dorn of Adams said during an earlier round of debate, Nebraska is ranked near the bottom of the nation in ethanol usage, with much of its ethanol being exported to other states. Dorn, who introduced LB 562, said requiring 15% ethanol fuel to be offered at gas stations will benefit the farmers who produce the fuel. "We should be showing that we can support our farmers," Dorn said. Many gas stations in Nebraska already offer gasoline blended with up to 10% ethanol. Several opponents said the requirements in LB 562 amount to a government mandate on businesses. Dorn pushed back against this critique, noting the bill exempts businesses that would need to spend more than $15,000 to make the changes and for those who sell low amounts of fuel per year, among other provisions. Sen. Steve Halloran of Hastings said he did agree that the bill is a mandate but still supported it as a conservative because it will help Nebraska's biggest industry and will give drivers more choices at the pump. Other supporters said that more ethanol production in Nebraska would create jobs and reduce the price of gas. They also said it is a cleaner form of energy that will reduce the state's dependence on oil. "Anytime we can agree with the EPA, I think it's a good day," said Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner. A 76-year-old Omaha woman died Tuesday afternoon following a three-vehicle crash. Three other people were injured in the crash at North 50th Street and Northwest Radial Highway, which police responded to at 1:43 p.m., according to a press release from the Omaha Police Department. An eastbound Kia Forte had slowed or stopped in the far right lane just before 50th Street when the Kia then attempted to make a left turn, improperly crossing both eastbound lanes and a northbound turn lane, according to the release. An eastbound Nissan Altima moved to avoid hitting the Kia, but eventually crashed east of the intersection, the release said. As the Kia continued its turn, it was hit by a westbound Ford F-150. The passenger in the Kia, Melody Stephens, was taken to Nebraska Medical Center but died shortly after arrival, according to the release. The driver of the Kia, a 78-year-old man, is being treated for chest and back pain. An adult passenger of the Ford was treated for arm and shoulder pain. The 44-year-old driver of the Ford was uninjured, the release said. The 37-year-old driver of the Nissan complained of arm and leg pain, but left the hospital before being treated, according to the release. The crash remains under investigation. US masks crimes in Pacific island countries with deceptive diplomacy 09:56, May 31, 2023 By Tian Yi ( People's Daily Online The U.S. and Papua New Guinea (PNG) signed a security pact on May 22, 2023, granting U.S. military forces access to the nations airfields and ports. Initially, President Biden was slated to sign the deal in PNG, which would have been a historic first visit to the country by a sitting U.S. President. However, he was forced to cancel the trip due to the pressing U.S. debt crisis back home. The security pact surfaces as the U.S. seeks to cement its military dominance across the Pacific islands. The U.S. also renewed the Compact of Free Association (COFA) with the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau, which assures a U.S. military presence in the two countries. Rekindling US engagement in the Pacific islands Despite a long-standing presence in the mid and western Pacific since the late 19th century, U.S. influence on the Pacific islands has declined in recent decades. After the Cold War, the U.S. substantially reduced its diplomatic presence in the South Pacific. Except for the three COFA countries (Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau, all former U.S. trusted territories), the U.S. only had two embassies in Pacific island countries as of 2021. This led to perceptions of neglect. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, who was the acting prime minister of Fiji at the time, expressed feeling forgotten while hosting U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in February 2022. The year 2022 proved to be a turning point for U.S. diplomacy toward Oceania. In September 2022, the first U.S.-Pacific Island Country Summit was held in Washington D.C., during which an agreement was signed with 14 island nations concerning the climate, economy and security. Furthermore, the U.S. pledged to establish embassies in the Solomon Islands (opened in February 2023), Tonga and Kiribati. The U.S. also announced its first-ever Pacific Partnership Strategy in September 2022. Overhyped US aid vs. Chinas genuine support To accurately evaluate the aid provided by the U.S., it is critical to pierce through the U.S. governments facade of lofty promises. The U.S. has a tradition of underdelivering on its pledges of economic assistance. Back in the 1970s, the Group of Seven (G7) countries promised to use 0.7 percent of their Gross National Income (GNI) annually towards official foreign aid. However, the U.S. fell significantly short, contributing 0.18 percent of its GNI in 2021. Likewise, in 2013, the U.S. initiated the Power Africa Initiative, committing to providing 20,000 megawatts of power to 50 million African people by 2020. By the end of 2020, it had only achieved less than a quarter of the promised target. Ironically, the U.S. has overstated its economic contributions to the Pacific island countries. The Lowy Institute Pacific Aid Map, funded by the Australian government, reveals that from 2008 to 2020, although the U.S. reportedly provided $2.3 billion to the region, 84 percent of the funds were channeled to the three COFA states, leaving the remaining 13 countries with less than $372 million. Notably, 41.4 percent of U.S. funds were directed towards government and civil society areas less impactful for improving the lives of locals. Adding to the irony, while COFA citizens have the right to live and work in the U.S., they were deprived of access to Medicaid and other assisting programs from 1996 to 2020. In contrast to the U.S., which scaled back its diplomatic representation in Pacific island countries after the Cold War, China has actively engaged with Pacific island nations through comprehensive assistance. China has concentrated on bolstering the economic development, connectivity and environmental safety of the Pacific island nations. It has built roads in Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Tonga, Micronesia, etc. In 2017, China and the island nations issued the Pingtan Declaration, offering a robust framework for these states to protect and manage their local environment, prevent water pollution, and protect water resources. In terms of human rights and empowerment, China has made strides in boosting womens economic competitiveness in Tonga and has provided assistance to the women of the Solomon Islands in their fight against poverty. China has built primary, secondary and post-secondary schools in Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga, Micronesia, and Vanuatu. In addressing the COVID-19 pandemic and providing humanitarian aid, China has made significant contributions. As of May 2022, China had donated over 590,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines to these countries, along with building hospitals and quarantine facilities for patients. The human cost of US nuclear testing in the Pacific The U.S. has brought its pro-military politics to the region. The security pact between the U.S. and PNG has stirred apprehension about escalating militarization in the Pacific region. The U.S. Department of States website reveals numerous instances of military cooperation between the U.S. and Pacific island countries. In addition to having U.S. troops stationed in the three associated states, the U.S. has extended military training to the local armies and police forces of several Pacific island nations. In some of these nations, the police represent their sole armed force. While the U.S. achieved dominance in the western Pacific following World War II, its actions during the Cold War have left a deep scar in the region. The U.S. has committed numerous crimes against local populations and violated the sovereignty of multiple island nations, including nuclear tests and infringements of island states Economic Exclusive Zones (EEZ). Between 1946 and 1958, the U.S. carried out 67 nuclear tests in the Marshall Islands, leading to massive humanitarian crises and devastating oceanic contamination. As documented by Jon Mitchell in his book Poisoning the Pacific, the U.S. essentially obliterated Elugelap Island and contaminated four regions of the Marshall Islands. Locals were relocated to ill-equipped slums without access to their traditional food sources or adequate protection from nuclear radiation. The fallout from these atomic tests reached as far as Guam and Japan. In a late attempt in 1977 to rectify the situation, just two years before the Marshall Islands independence, the U.S. finally started to confine the contaminated nuclear waste within a fortified crater on Runit Island, promising the waste would remain safely sealed for 200,000 years. Yet by 2013, the U.S. Department of Energy had already discovered leaks in the containment structure. US political coercion in the Pacific island nations The U.S. has blatantly interfered with the internal affairs of the Solomon Islands, going so far as to fund a secessionist province, which culminated in an anti-government riot in the capital Honiara in November 2021. According to Australias ABC News, the U.S. pledged $25 million in aid to Malaita, the countrys most populous province, in 2020. The province had been demanding an independence referendum from the Solomon Islands following the central governments establishment of diplomatic relations with the Peoples Republic of China. This kind of coercion from the U.S. towards the Pacific island nations is not new. For example, throughout the 1980s, the U.S. plundered the EEZs of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. In 1982, PNG authorities seized a U.S. fishing vessel for illegal fishing, and in 1984, the U.S. imposed an embargo on the Solomon Islands after one American fishing vessel was detained. The United States does not recognize Papua New Guineas 200-mile economic zone, said a New York Times article published on Feb. 28, 1982. To uphold their economic rights and resist U.S. coercion, Kiribati and Vanuatu signed fishing agreements with the Soviet Union in 1985 and 1987, respectively. In response, the U.S. signed the 1987 Treaty of Fisheries, which granted fishing rights to American vessels in the EEZs of island nations, requiring the U.S. to pay for fishing rights. The treaty was not a result of U.S. benevolence but was due to the increasing presence of the Soviet Union in the Pacific region. In stark contrast, China has treated Pacific island countries respectfully and provided economic and technical assistance without political conditions. China abides by the principles of mutual respect, equal treatment, win-win cooperation, openness and inclusiveness to deepen relations with Pacific island countries. Meanwhile, the U.S. has continually abused and undermined the sovereignty of these same island nations. Even in its recent engagements with the Pacific island countries, the U.S. is only striving to counter Chinas influence in the region. However, Chinas diplomacy toward the Pacific island countries is grounded in equality and seeks to boost common development, which is fundamentally different from the U.S.s goals and practices. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Wu Chengliang) Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will have a hard time performing its duties if its dividends are allocated to the proposed Maharlika Investment Fund, a former official said on Wednesday. It is the mandate of the central bank to keep prices stable, so when it is necessary, we need to mop up liquidity that will cost moneySecond, when the situation gets worse and some of the banks are affected, you need the money again to bail out distressed financial institutions, former BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo told CNN Philippines The Source. But if the central bank is weak in terms of financial statement and balance sheet then it will have difficulty delivering on its mandate of price stability and banking stability, he added. Before the Senate approved the bill early Wednesday morning, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian proposed to drop the BSP dividends as one of the sources of Maharlika Investment Corporations (MIC) capital. He said he wanted to ensure that the BSP's increasing capitalization will be fully realized at the earliest possible time, to strengthen the institution given the growth of the banking industry through the years, this is also to maintain the credibility of the BSP. Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva supported the proposed amendment. However, it was rejected by the bills sponsor Sen. Mark Villar, saying the BSP has already said that they're willing to defer. The economic team has really expressed that the dividendsit's a priority for them that the dividends received from BSP be used for the MIC, he added. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri backed Villars decision. Guinigundo emphasized the BSP needs more capitalization to ensure financial stability. The central bank plays a very important role in stabilizing the macroeconomy, he pointed out. It is important that while, at present the central bank is healthy and robust, it is important not only to maintain it but to further strengthen it. He also said the government should be risk-conscious and prepare the BSP for the possible occurrence of unfavorable circumstances in the future. The Landbank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines are also fund sources of the Maharlika fund. Guinigindo expressed his concern about this. He said since these government institutions have their own investment and lending operations, funding the MIF may compromise the viability of the two banks. LINCOLN Nebraska lawmakers on Tuesday passed more than 20 education bills packaged into one, including addressing the states teacher shortage and increasing mental health resources. State lawmakers passed Legislative Bill 705 in a 47-0 vote Tuesday, sending it to Gov. Jim Pillens desk for his signature. If signed, the law will take effect immediately. This package is the culmination of hours of hard work by all committee members to benefit students and advance education in Nebraska, Education Chair Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil said in a statement. While the bill spurred some opposition in previous rounds, the final round of debate was quick, with no lawmakers speaking for or against the measure. The underlying bill, LB 705, would distribute more than $24 million in state lottery funds to various education sources, including college access efforts and opportunity grants. Another bill in the package is LB 385, introduced by Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of the Omaha area, which would allocate up to $10 million for retainment grants for teachers who continue working in Nebraska. Teachers could receive a $2,500 grant for their second, fourth and sixth year of teaching. Linehan said school administrators told lawmakers that local schools often lose teachers between their second and fourth years. LB 385 is one of several bills within the package that seeks to deal with Nebraskas teacher shortage. According to the Nebraska Department of Education, the number of unfilled teaching jobs across the state has gone up nearly 60% recently, increasing from 482 vacancies at the start of the 2021-22 school year to 768 at the beginning of 2022-23. The existing workforce shortage has impacted schools large and small, Murman said. Other bills aimed at the same issue include: LB 603, a Linehan bill that would establish alternative pathways for prospective teachers to obtain a certificate. LB 724, which would eliminate the requirement for prospective teachers to pass the PRAXIS Test. Introducer Sen. Tony Vargas of Omaha described the basic skills test as an expensive hurdle that prevents some would-be teachers from entering the field. LB 762, introduced by Sen. Wendy DeBoer of Bennington, which would devote $1 million to tuition assistance for paraprofessionals looking to become teachers. In previous rounds, the overall bill drew opposition based on a handful of individual bills in the package. A few lawmakers shared concerns about LB 632, which would prohibit schools from suspending students in preschool through second grade. Several others took issue with LB 805, which would require that schools allow certain youth organizations to provide information, services and activities to students. Opponents specifically objected to the Boy Scouts of America being included in the list, referencing a 2020 scandal in which more than 92,000 claims of sexual abuse were filed against the organization from former Scouts. They might be doing a better job, said Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha. They might have cleaned house. But that trauma still exists. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of May 2023 LINCOLN A turmoil-filled session for the Nebraska Legislature is poised to end two days early. Speaker of the Legislature John Arch announced Tuesday that the session will conclude on Thursday, instead of the previously scheduled end date of June 9. This will make the session a total of 88 days long, instead of the standard 90. Arch said he chose to move up the final adjournment because the Legislature is on track to pass all of the priority bills that have already made it past their first round of debate. The final days of the session will include debates on a controversial voter identification measure, recovery efforts in Omaha, and potential overrides to Gov. Jim Pillens vetoes. One possible issue with adjourning early is that it leaves lawmakers without an opportunity to override late vetoes from the governor. Arch said Pillen assured him he had no last-minute vetoes planned. Pillen has already vetoed individual parts of the two-year budget lawmakers passed earlier this session, including funding for two programs that work to build housing for rural workers and middle-income families, and a second-year rate increase for hospitals, nursing homes, child welfare providers and other health and human services providers. Lawmakers are slated to debate overriding these vetoes on Wednesday. This years session broke many norms, primarily because of a session-long filibuster that forced lawmakers to develop work-arounds in order to pass more legislation. Overall, Arch said he expects the session will be remembered for what he described as transformational efforts for tax reform, including a set of three bills that are projected to cut or offset more than $6 billion worth of property taxes and income taxes over the next six years. I think those were really the big pieces, Arch said. On the other side of the aisle, State Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha said the session will not be looked on favorably by the public. Cavanaugh was the leading lawmaker behind the filibuster, which she launched in protest of a bill that restricts gender-affirming care for transgender youths. As amended before final passage, the bill also bans abortion at 12 weeks past gestation. That bill narrowly passed the Legislature, and was signed into law by Pillen last week. It has already spurred an opposing lawsuit. It was one of several bills that Cavanaugh said was marred by a conservative social agenda. Among other controversial bills passed this session was a bill allowing Nebraskans 21 and older to carry concealed weapons without a permit, and a bill providing tax credits for donations to scholarship funds to private and faith-based schools. Both these bills crossed the finish line after lawmakers had tried and failed to pass similar measures in past years. Editor's Note: This story has been updated as of May 31, 2023 to clarify the Speaker's plan for the end of the session. Photos: 2023 Nebraska legislative session LINCOLN Nebraska lawmakers advanced a plan for implementing the states new voter identification requirements. Legislative Bill 514 cleared the second of three rounds of debate Tuesday after overcoming a continued filibuster by the senator who led efforts to put the issue before voters last year. The vote to end the filibuster was 42-3. State Sen. Julie Slama of Dunbar, who sponsored the voter ID ballot proposal, argued that the bill was unconstitutional and did not properly carry out the will of Nebraskans, who overwhelmingly passed the measure last year. Slama said she had tried to negotiate with LB 514 supporters over the Memorial Day weekend but without success. She blamed the outcome on Secretary of State Bob Evnen. This is not about who gets the credit, she said. This is about following through with the will of the people. Sen. Tom Brewer of Gordon, chairman of the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, defended the bill, saying it was the product of weeks of work by his legislative committee. He said the proposal has the support of Gov. Jim Pillen, as well as Evnen and 92 of 93 county election officials. The lone holdout is Sarpy County Election Commissioner Emily Ethington, Slamas sister. Brewer said the bill would do what Nebraskans wanted when they passed the constitutional amendment, without venturing into other election reforms. He said lawmakers had to move forward when efforts to negotiate a compromise with Slama broke down. I would not bring it forward if I did not believe it would do what voters asked, he said. The debate stems from the constitutional amendment passed last year requiring qualified voters to present valid photographic ID before casting a ballot in any election. The amendment left it to lawmakers to determine how the requirement should be carried out. LB 514 spells out what documents would be accepted to prove identity for voting, how ID requirements would be handled for mail-in ballots, how people could get free IDs for voting and when exceptions would be allowed. Under the plan, voters would have to start showing ID after April 1 next year. That means the requirement would be in effect for Nebraskans casting early ballots for the 2024 primary election. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of May 2023 Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on Thursday held separate private meetings with governors Mohammadu Abubakar of Bauchi State and Jibrila Bindow of Adamawa. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared the March 9 governorship election in both states inconclusive. Both governors declined to speak with State House correspondents after emerging from the meeting. In both Bauchi and Adamawa, the opposition PDP candidates were leading in the elections before they were declared inconclusive. Both states are two of six states where such is the case. INEC has fixed March 23 for supplementary elections in Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Kano, Plateau and Sokoto states where governorship elections were declared inconclusive. Of the six states, the PDP was leading in five while the APC led in Plateau before the elections were declared inconclusive. Mr. Lati, Isaac Adewole and Baba Suwe Nollywood veteran actor Babatunde Baba Suwe Omidina has been in the media recently after it was revealed that the movie star was in urgent need of medical attention. Since then, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, as well as Baba Suwes colleagues in the industry, have rallied around him to support him. VP Osinbajo donated N1,000,000 to the ailing actor. Now, Baba Suwe, joined by some of his colleagues, has had a meeting with Nigerias Minister of Health Isaac Adewole. While the purpose and outcome of the meeting havent been fully revealed, the conversation about how to further assist Baba Suwe with his medical condition was explored. See the photos below: Work on the Anambra-China Airport is set to resume after the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria promised to get his government intervene in projects being handled by Chinese companies in the state. This development follows an appeal by Governor Willie Obiano to China to assist in facilitating the prompt completion of some projects being handled by Chinese companies in Anambra State, especially the International Airport at Umueri. The governor made the request when the Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, Zou Pingjian, paid him a courtesy call at Governors Lodge, Amawbia on Thursday. He stressed that due to delays in the project execution at the airport site, Anambra government offered to undertake the construction of a section of the runway while hoping that full work would soon resume there. The governor said by the time the airport would be completed, Anambra hoped to have more Chinese presence in the state as some tertiary institutions now offer Chinese language in their course curriculum. He urged them to use the opportunity provided by the visit to see some tourist sites, cultural artefacts and centres, to explore for improvements. This will go a long way in helping to cement our ties, he explained. Pingjian explained that the aim of his visit was to explore cooperation opportunities at the state level, and noted that the relationship between China and Anambra had been cordial and productive and as such, should be across board at all levels. He commended the governor for his vision, saying that China was working in the same direction, in line with the vision of the Anambra government. In China, the Congress last Friday, passed a law on foreign investment which is in line with the vision of Anambra State. China is creating more enabling environment for foreign investors to support growth of the state, he said. He re-assured of Chinese governments readiness to assist to speed up all projects being handled by Chinese companies in the state. Top government functionaries present at the event included Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Solo Chukwulobelu, and Primus Odili, the Chief of Staff. Meanwhile, following the meeting, the Anambra government has continued to strengthen efforts at diversifying partnership with China to boost cultural relationship, according to Obiano. The essence of the visit was to promote cultural exchange through establishment of Anambra-Chinese Cultural Centre and to finalise plans to train youths in China. The proposed cultural centre would have a theatre and other facilities that would facilitate a cultural exchange between Anambra and China. Obiano, while receiving the ambassador and his team, called on Chinese government to establish a consular office in the state as a vast number of Anambra people travel to China for business purposes. Right now Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University is offering Mandarin language. We are doing all these to consolidate our relationship with China, the governor said. The governor stressed that the state government earmarked land for the construction of Anambra State China Cultural Centre and Theatre Art. He said the state has rich cultural heritage and potential that has yet to be harnessed. Pingjian commended Obiano for creating investment opportunities in the state, and noted that Chinas main reason in seeking partnership with Anambra State was to harness the states rich cultural values and promote commercial activities. He stressed that they would collaborate with the state to create enabling environment for more business opportunities. Sally Mbanefo, commissioner for Diaspora Affairs, Culture and Tourism, explained that the partnership was as a result of the relationship the state had built with China through cultural exchanges. She noted that Anambra in the past one year enjoyed cultural exchange programmes with the Chinese, which led to high interest being developed between the two countries. Mbanefo said Anambra cultural troupe was the only team invited by China to Abuja during celebration of the Chinese New Year 2019, saying some youths from the state would be trained in China at the invitation of the Chinese government. Photos have shown how a couple believed to be kidnappers were caught with a stolen baby. The incident happened in Port harcourt, Rivers State. The couple escaped being lynched by a mob after they were apprehended with the stolen baby hidden inside the wifes bag. The couple were apprehended during a stop and search operation by police officers in the state. They are currently in police custody and are being interrogated at the police command headquarters. See more photos below: President Muhammadu Buhari says most instances of inter-communal and inter-religious strife and violence were and are still being sponsored or incited by ethnic, political or religious leaders. The President, who stated this in his Democracy Day address on Wednesday in Abuja, said that the leaders were hoping to benefit by exploiting our divisions and fault lines, thereby weakening our country. He noted that in spite of activities of the saboteurs, his government had remained focused in fulfilling the campaign promises in the areas of security, economy and fighting corruption. When I took the oath of office on May 29, 2015, insecurity reigned. Apart from occupying 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the Northeast, Boko Haram can at will attack any city including the Federal Capital Territory; can threaten any institution including bombing the United Nations building and Police Headquarters in Abuja. Admittedly, some of the challenges still remain in kidnappings and banditry in some rural areas.` The great difference between 2015 and today is that we are meeting these challenges with much greater support to the security forces in terms of money, equipment and improved local intelligence. We are meeting these challenges with superior strategy, firepower and resolve, he said. The president reiterated the greatness of Nigeria in the comity of nations and the need for every citizen to work towards reclaiming the glory. Our country Nigeria is a great country. According to United Nations estimates, our population will rise to 411 million by 2050, making us the third most populous nation on earth behind only China and India. We have water, arable land, forests, oil and gas and vast quantities of solid minerals. We are blessed with an equable climate. However, the bulk of our real wealth lies in Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry and Mining. We possess all the ingredients of a major economic power on the world stage. What we require is the will to get our acts together. And our strength is in our people our youth, our culture, our resilience, our ability to succeed despite the odds. READ ALSO: Updated: NJC commends Buhari for accepting Onnoghens retirement A huge responsibility therefore rests on this and succeeding Administrations to develop, harness and fulfil our enormous potentials into a force to be reckoned with globally, the president said. On the nations military strength, the president said Nigeria had contributed to UN peace-keeping responsibilities all over the world. He said that Nigeria helped to stabilise Liberia, Sierran Leone, Ivory Coast and recently prevented the Gambia from degenerating into anarchy. Without Nigerian influence and resources, the liberation of Angola, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe and ultimately South Africa would have come at greater cost. This fact has been attested to by none other than the late Nelson Mandela himself. Elsewhere, Nigeria is the Big Brother to our neighbours. We are the shock-absorber of the West African sub-region, the bulwark of ECOWAS and Lake Chad Basin Commission. We can therefore be proud to be Nigerians. We must continue to be Good Neighbours and Good Global Citizens, he said. Members of the House of Representatives, on Tuesday, declared support for President Bola Tinubu on the sudden removal of petrol subsidy. A member of the House, Jimoh Olajide, on the resumption of legislative session on Tuesday, moved a motion of urgent public importance, seeking the support of the federal lawmakers on the pronouncement of President Tinubu after his inauguration on Monday in Abuja, that The fuel subsidy is gone; and adding that the federal government would instead disburse subsidy funds into infrastructure and other areas to strengthen the economy. The House of Representatives members had urged Nigerians to exercise patience and be prayerful to allow President Tinubu deliver on his promises. Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday resumed duty at the Vice Presidents Office in the State House, n Abuja, Federal capital territory. The Vice President, who was administered the Oath of Office and Oath of Allegiance on Monday, was said to have arrives office at 12.39pm. Vice President Shettima, speaking to State House Correspondents on arrival, reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to improving the lives of the Nigerian people. Shettima also upheld Tinubus statement that petrol subsidy is gone, despite the biting fuel scarcity across the country after the pronouncement of subsidy removal by the President at the inauguration on Monday. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) The Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) bill is now closer to enactment after the House of Representatives officially adopted the Senate version or the latest version of the controversial measure. With approval from both chambers of Congress, the measure is now up for signing into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has repeatedly endorsed the bill and had certified it as urgent. The Senate and the House passed the MIF bill six months after it was proposed and in time before Congress adjourns sine die on Friday, June 2. In a statement, Albay Rep. Joey Salceda who also chairs the technical working group on the MIF bill explained that the House decided to adopt the Senate version so the executive branch can already begin crafting the implementing rules and regulations. Salceda said he expects Marcos to announce his approval of the bill in time for his second State of the Nation Address in July. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri earlier said the House already committed to adopt the Senate version even before the bicameral conference committee composed of representatives from both chambers met Wednesday afternoon. "This was at 10:52 a.m. Good morning, HOR accepts it all. Congratulations and thanks for the trust, wonderful news, Sec. Mina Pangandaman of the DBM, Zubiri read to reporters. After seven days of plenary discussions, senators swiftly approved its version of the bill early Wednesday morning agreeing to ban the use of state pension funds as seed money for the proposed sovereign wealth account. READ: 'Triumph of the Senate': Zubiri touts Maharlika bill's safeguards The previous plan to get initial investments from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and Social Security System (SSS) was abandoned after earning the ire of several groups, who argued that doing so may put Filipinos' pension funds at risk. READ: Senate bars investment of state pension funds in Maharlika, okays key changes in bill's final version READ: Marcos: State pension funds not to be used as seed capital for Maharlika The latest version of the MIF bill also cut down the number of directors of the Maharlika Investment Corporation board from 15 to 9, and members cannot include those with pending cases relating to fraud, corruption, tax evasion, and other similar offenses. The penalties for misuse of the Maharlika fund are also more stringent with imprisonment of up to 20 years and a fine of up to 10 million. Labour Party presidential candidate in the last election, Peter Obi has called his first witness to testify against President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday. Obi alleged that the presidential election held on February 25, was rigged in favour of President Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, His first witness testified before the Presidential Election Petition Court, PEPC, sitting in Abuja on Tinubus drug related forfeiture in the US. Obis first witness, Mr. Lawrence Nwakaeti, who told the court that he is from Ihiala in Anambra state, identified a document relating to a court proceeding in the United States of America, USA, pertaining to Tinubus alleged indictment in a drug-related-case. Whereas the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, through its lead counsel, Mr. Abubakar Mahmood, SAN, said it was not opposed to the admissibility of the document. On their part, both President Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, said they were vehemently opposed to the admissibility of the document. Tinubu and the APC said they would however reserve their reasons for opposing the document, in their final briefs of argument. Consequently, Justice Haruna Tsammani-leds five-member panel admitted the document in evidence and marked it as Exhibit PA- 5. While being cross-examined by INECs lawyer, the witness said he was a registered voter that participated in the presidential election held on February 25. I have my Permanent Voters Card and I voted at my polling unit located in front of my house at Umuezella Village Square. I did not play any other role except exercising my civic duty, the witness, who said he was called to the Nigerian Bar as a lawyer, on October 13, 2000, added. Asked by Tinubus lead counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, if he has ever visited the USA, the witness, said: Yes my lords, I have been there at least once. That was in 2003. I was in Michigan. In a follow-up question, Olanipekun, SAN, asked the witness: My learned friend, you stated emphatically in your statement that the 2nd respondent was fined the sum of $460,000.00. Do you still stand by that deposition? Answering, the witness, said: Yes my lord, I stand by it. Will you then be surprised that from the document which you tendered, there is no single line or even a word, relating to the issue of fine?, Olanipekun, SAN, asked. My lords, I will be surprised because he was fined, and the document speaks for itself, the witness replied. Are you aware if the said indicting document was registered in Nigeria or if any certificate was attached to it from any consular, Olanipekun, SAN, queried? No, it was not registered. But The documents were duly certified, the witness stated, adding, my lords, there is a certificate from the person that issued it. But there is no certificate from the consular. Also asked if there was a certificate from any police officer in the USA where the offence was allegedly committed. The witness replied in the negative, saying; My lords, there is no certificate as the police played no role in the indictment. On its part, the APC, through its lead counsel, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, while cross-examining the witness, asked if he was aware of a letter dated February 4, 2003, which the Legal Attache to US Embassy, wrote to clear Tinubu of any complicity in the drug-related case. I am not aware of such a clearance letter, the witness replied. Social media platform Twitter has removed the verification badge attached to the personal account of President Bola Tinubu. This came hours after the verification badge of immediate past Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo was removed. News Direct believes the Blue checkmark was removed so an official grey checkmark used to distinguish Government accounts can be attached to the Presidents account. President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Department of State Services (DSS) to vacate the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Ikoyi, Lagos, immediately. Tinubu on Tuesday evening said if there were issues between the two important agencies of government, they would be resolved amicably. The President said this, according to a statement by the State House. DSS on Tuesday morning reportedly laid siege on the premises of the EFCC in Lagos. The DSS high command, however, said it did not barricade the entrance leading to EFCC zonal office in Lagos. DSS spokesman Peter Afunanya in a statement said the building occupied by the EFCC originally belongs to the secret police. It is not correct that the DSS barricaded EFCC from entering its office. No. It is not true. The Service is only occupying its own facility where it is carrying out its official and statutory responsibility, Afunanya said. By the way, there is no controversy over No 15A Awolowo Road as being insinuated by the Media. Did the efcc tell you it is contesting the ownership of the building? The DSS spokesman said he will be surprised if the EFCC is contesting the ownership of the building. He explained that Awolowo Road was NSO headquarters. SSS/DSS started from there. It is a common knowledge. It is a historical fact. Check it out. There is no rivalry between the Service and the EFCC over and about anything. Please do not create any imaginary one. They are great partners working for the good of the nation. Dismiss any falsehood of a fight. May 30, (THEWILL) President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Department of State Services (DSS), to vacate the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in Ikoyi, Lagos, immediately. According to a statement from the State House, Abuja, the President said if there were issues between the two important agencies of government, they would be resolved amicably. THEWILL earlier reported that operatives of the DSS on Tuesday, laid siege on the EFCC office at Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, preventing staff of the anti-graft agency from gaining access to the facility. Confirming the development, the anti-graft agency in a statement on its verified social media handles, said The operatives of its Lagos Command arrived at their office on No. 15 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, on Tuesday morning, to be denied entry by agents of the Department of State Services, who had barricaded the entrance with armoured personnel carriers. The EFCC further said the siege was a threat to the fight against economic and financial crimes in the country. However, the DSS in a statement signed by its Spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, denied the allegation. Afunanya said the DSS did not block the EFCC office but rather occupied the DSS section of the building. According to him, there is no rivalry between the two agencies as both work for the countrys good. There is no rivalry between the Service and the EFCC over and about anything. Please do not create any imaginary ones. They are great partners working for the good of the nation. Dismiss any falsehood of a fight. By the way, there is no controversy over No 15A Awolowo Road as being insinuated by the Media. Did the EFCC tell you it is contesting the ownership of the building? I will be surprised if it is contesting the ownership. No. It is not true. The Service is only occupying its own facility where it is carrying out its official and statutory responsibility, he added. President Bola Tinubu has directed operatives of the State Security Service, SSS, to vacate the Lagos headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in Ikoyi, Lagos. Men of the SSS had early in the morning barricaded access into the EFCC office area, claiming ownership of the office complex housing the anti-graft agency. But in a statement by his media aide, Tunde Rahman, Mr Tinubu directed that any disagreement between the agencies of government should be amicably resolved. He said: President Bola Tinubu has directed the Department of State Security Service to immediately vacate the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in Ikoyi, Lagos. The President gave the directive when reports that DSS officials stormed the EFCC office located on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos on Tuesday, preventing officials of the anti-graft agency from accessing their workplace, was brought to his attention. The President said if there were issues between the two important agencies of government, they would be resolved amicably, the statement added. The Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has ordered the immediate freezing of the state governments accounts in banks and other financial institutions in the country. The governor gave the directive in a statement issued on Tuesday in Umuahia by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma. He also dissolved the boards of all government agencies and parastatals in the state and directed the chief executives of the organisations to hand over to the next senior officers in line. Otti took the oath of office as the fifth governor of Abia State on Monday. The statement read: All banks and other financial institutions in the country are directed to immediately cease from honouring cheques, documents, instruments or directives of any kind not expressly approved by or emanating from the governor. READ ALSO: Sole Labour Party guber victor, Alex Otti sworn in as Abia governor The governor had also approved the appointment of Prof. Kenneth Kalu as the Secretary to the State Government. Other appointments are Dr. Caleb Ajagba (Chief of Staff to the Governor), Dr. Ngozi Okoronkwo (Special Adviser, HealthCare Delivery Services), and Mr. Kazie Ukoh (Chief Press Secretary to the Governor). Others are Mrs. Njum Onyemenam (Accountant-General) and Mr. Ogbonnia Okereke (Head, Special Taskforce on Emergency Cleanup of Aba and Umuahia). All the appointments take immediate effect, the statement added. Join the conversation Opinions Support Ripples Nigeria , hold up solutions journalism Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs. As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake. If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause. Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development. Donate Now Vice President Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday, insisted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would catapult Nigeria to a higher pedestal. Shettima spoke to State House correspondents inside his office as he resumed work at the Presidential Villa today. This was disclosed in a statement by Olusola Abiola, Director (Information) Office of the Vice President, on Tuesday. Shettima was accompanied to the office by his personal aides, where he met with the Permanent Secretary and senior civil servants in the Office of the Vice President. I want to assure our countrymen that President Bola Tinubu will, by the grace of God, catapult this nation to a higher pedestal, he said. He is determined, he has the skills set, the temperament, the disposition and the purity of mind and commitment to give service to this nation. Shettima added, The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is poised to redefine the meaning and concept of modern governance. He is going to provide the leadership and we will rally round him. Give him our unequivocal support and loyalty to see to the realization of the Nigerian dream. The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has stated that some petroleum marketers are taking advantage of President Bola Tinubus announcement on the removal of oil subsidies to hoard the commodity and inflict suffering on the citizens. The governor said this in a video shared by his media aide Jubril Aremu Gawat on his Twitter handle on Tuesday. READ ALSO: Group urges Lagos residents to join hands with Sanwo-Olu He said, I think it is too early in the day for people to second guess our new president. This is a pronouncement it is unfair for some of our major marketers to want to begin to seize opportunities. There is nothing that has changed in that pronouncement that could have caused the queues, but hey, I am sure the federal government that we have will be able to rise up and deal with it. I want to encourage everyone to be law-abiding, to go about their normal business Spread the love By Eric Patrick The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Lagos State Command, has condemned the unannounced siege at their office on No.15 Awolowo road, Ikoji by agents of the Department of State Service, DSS, on May 30, 2023. EFCC reveal that the siege is shocking because this has never happened to the commission. According to EFCC, the entrance to their office was barricaded with armoured personnel carriers, depriving operatives access to their offices. However, in an official statement posted on the Facebook page of the commission, reads;. Commission s operations at its largest hub with over 500 personnel, hundreds of exhibits, and many suspects in detention have been disrupted. We have cohabited with the DSS in that facility for 20 years without incident, Says the commission. The Economic and Financial Crime Commission noted that cases scheduled for court hearing today have been aborted, while many suspects who had been invited for questioning are left unattended. Even more alarming is that suspects in detention are left without care with grave implications for their rights as inmates. All of these have wilder implications for the nations fight against economic and financial crimes. The siege is inconsistent with the synergy expected of agencies working for the same government and nation, especially when there are ongoing discussions on the matter. National Daily reported that some group of armed DSS officials allegedly sieged the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes commission, EFCC. All efforts by the National Daily to contact the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Abdulrasheed Bawa, on his Twitter account proved abortive. Advertisement The reason, however, for the siege is yet to be known. Peter Obi Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, in the 2023 polls has appealed to the Presidential Election Petition Court, PEPC, sitting in Abuja, to adjourn further proceedings on the lawsuit he filed to challenge the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the Feb 25th polls. Obi, through his team of lawyers that were led by Prof. Awa Kalu, SAN, on Wednesday, told the court that two of his key staff members, suddenly fell ill. He said the indisposition of the duo, who were described as part of the engine room of his legal Secretariat, affected his plan to tender vital documents before the court to prove his allegation that the presidential election was rigged in favour of President Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC. My lords, our plan for todays proceedings was to start with the presentation of our documents, but unfortunately, we had some unexpected development. The unexpected development concerns the sudden illness of two of our key staff, for which reason I am constrained to ask for an adjournment till tomorrow. It is with the greatest humility and apology that we make this application. I assure my lords that we will be here tomorrow morning and we will proceed with vigour, Prof. Kalu, SAN, pleaded. Obis lawyer told the Justice Haruna Tsammani-led five-member panel that he had before the sitting commenced, informed President Tinubus lead counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, about the development. In his response, President Tinubus lawyer, Chief Olanipekun, SAN, told the court that he was not opposed to the request for an adjournment. Likewise, Mr. Abubakar Mahmood, SAN, who appeared for the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, as well as counsel for the APC, prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said they were equally not opposed to the request. However, the respondents prayed the court to minus a day from the three weeks that was originally slated for Obi to present his case. In a brief ruling, Justice Tsammani acceded to the application and adjourned the petition till Thursday. It will be recalled that Obi and the LP had indicated their decision to call a total of 50 witnesses in the matter. Specifically, Obi, who came third in the election, is in the joint petition he filed with the LP, contending that Tinubu was not the valid winner of the presidential election. The petitioners, in the case marked: CA/PEPC/03/2023, equally maintained that President Tinubu was not qualified to participate in the presidential contest. According to the petitioners, as at the time Tinubus running mate, Kashim Shettima, became the Vice Presidential candidate, he was still the nominated candidate of the APC for the Borno Central Senatorial election. The petitioners further challenged Tinubus eligibility to contest the presidential election, alleging that he was previously indicted and fined the sum of $460,000.00 by the United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, in Case No: 93C 4483, for an offence involving dishonesty and drug trafficking. On the ground that the election was invalid by reason of corrupt practices and non- compliance with the provision of Electoral Act, 2022, the petitioners argued that INEC acted in breach of its own Regulations and Guidelines. The Petitioners argued that the electoral body was in the course of the conduct of the presidential poll, mandatorily required to prescribe and deploy technological devices for the accreditation, verification, continuation and authentication of voters and their particulars as contained in its Regulations. They are, therefore, praying the court to among other things, declare that all the votes recorded for Tinubu and the APC, were wasted votes owing to his non-qualification/disqualification. That it be determined that on the basis of the remaining votes (after discountenancing the votes credited to the 2nd Respondent) the 1st Petitioner (Obi) scored a majority of the lawful votes cast at the election and had not less than 25% of the votes cast in at least 2/3 of the States of the Federation, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and satisfied the constitutional requirements to be declared the winner of the 25th February 2023 presidential election. That it be determined that the 2nd Respondent having failed to score one-quater of the votes cast at the presidential election in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, was not entitled to be declared and returned as the winner of the presidential election held on 25th February, 2023. In the alternative, the petitioners want an order cancelling the election and compelling INEC to conduct a fresh election at which Tinubu, Shettima and the APC, listed as 2nd, 3rd and 4th Respondents, respectively, shall not participate. They urged the court to declare that since Tinubu was not duly elected by a majority of the lawful votes cast in the election, therefore, his return as the winner of the presidential election, was unlawful, unconstitutional and of no effect whatsoever. In a further alternative prayer, the petitioners want the court to hold that the presidential election was void on the ground that it was not conducted substantially in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, and the 1999 Constitution, as amended. Likewise, an order, cancelling the presidential election conducted on 25th February 2023 and mandating the 1st Respondent to conduct a fresh election for the President, the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Both Obi and his Vice Presidential candidate, Baba Ahmed Datti, were in court on Wednesday to observe the proceeding. Meanwhile, the court will by 2pm, continue further hearing on the petition that was filed by candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who came second in the presidential election. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) Just two months into office, Negros Oriental Gov. Guido Reyes has died, provincial administrator Karen Molas confirmed on Wednesday. "I don't have the exact time of death yet but I do know that it happened today and in the morning," Molas said in a video posted on the province's official social media account. Molas said she was informed by Reyes' daughter Vice Mayor Eunica Reyes that the governor died this morning. She added that she has not been authorized by the family to disclose any other details. Molas said she has already met with Negros Oriental Vice Governor and soon-to-be governor Manuel Sagarbarria Jr. to inform him about Reyes' death. Molas said she turned over to Sagarbarria the programs and projects that Reyes had left behind. Reyes assumed the post in March after the assassination of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo. He was elected as vice governor during the May 9, 2022 elections where he ran alongside Degamo. This story will be updated. Afrobeats queen, Tiwa Savage, has broken silence over the photo of her kissing a mystery man in Brazil. The drama started after Tiwa Savage shared the photo via her Instagram page and fans asked if he was her new lover. Popular blogger, Tunde Ednut reposted same photo with a caption that suggested same, but Tiwa quickly debunked the speculations. Hmmmmmmmmmmm! Is Tiwa hinting us? Tunde wrote. Tiwa Savage, reacting to the post stated that the picture was just for content. Tundeeee you just wanna put me in trouble sha. Its just content, Abeg oooo, she said. See Post Below; It was gathered that the woman was kidnapped in Niger State on March 14, 2023, and had been in captivity since then until the bandits killed her over the weekend. Mrs Lilian John A woman identified as Mrs Lilian John has been killed by bandits after reportedly collecting a ransom of 20m ransom and five motorcycles from her family. It was gathered that the woman was kidnapped in Niger State on March 14, 2023, and had been in captivity since then until the bandits killed her over the weekend. Meanwhile, friends and family members have taken to Facebook to mourn her. So, my uncles wife was killed by bandits. God where are you, after collecting ransom of 20 million and five motorcycles. Each one is 850,000. They still killed her, one Jacob Jusuf said. Gloria Markus wrote: What a wicked world we are in , you were held captive by bandits since 14th March and we kept praying for your safe release especially we the members of zumunta Mata katolika Minna diocese, just to hear that you were shot dead yesterday by the bandits. Mrs Lilian John may your gentle soul continue to rest with the Lord. Amen. See Posts Below; The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Peter Obi, has persuaded the Presidential Election Petition Court, PEPC, sitting in Abuja, to adjourn further proceedings on the case he filed to challenge the outcome of the presidential election that held on February 25. Obi, through his team of lawyers that were led by Prof. Awa Kalu, SAN, on Wednesday, told the court that two of his key staff members, suddenly fell ill. He said the indisposition of the duo, who were described as part of the engine room of his legal Secretariat, affected his plan to tender vital documents before the court to prove his allegation that the presidential election was rigged in favour of President Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC. My lords, our plan for todays proceedings was to start with the presentation of our documents, but unfortunately, we had some unexpected development. The unexpected development concerns the sudden illness of two of our key staff, for which reason I am constrained to ask for an adjournment till tomorrow. It is with the greatest humility and apology that we make this application. I assure my lords that we will be here tomorrow morning and we will proceed with vigour, Prof. Kalu, SAN, pleaded. Obis lawyer told the Justice Haruna Tsammani-led five-member panel that he had before the sitting commenced, informed President Tinubus lead counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, about the development. In his response, President Tinubus lawyer, Chief Olanipekun, SAN, told the court that he was not opposed to the request for an adjournment. Likewise, Mr. Abubakar Mahmood, SAN, who appeared for the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, as well as counsel for the APC, prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said they were equally not opposed to the request. However, the respondents prayed the court to minus a day from the three weeks that was originally slated for Obi to present his case. In a brief ruling, Justice Tsammani acceded to the application and adjourned the petition till Thursday. It will be recalled that Obi and the LP had indicated their decision to call a total of 50 witnesses in the matter. Specifically, Obi, who came third in the election, is in the joint petition he filed with the LP, contending that Tinubu was not the valid winner of the presidential election. The petitioners, in the case marked: CA/PEPC/03/2023, equally maintained that President Tinubu was not qualified to participate in the presidential contest. According to the petitioners, as at the time Tinubus running mate, Kashim Shettima, became the Vice Presidential candidate, he was still the nominated candidate of the APC for the Borno Central Senatorial election. The petitioners further challenged Tinubus eligibility to contest the presidential election, alleging that he was previously indicted and fined the sum of $460,000.00 by the United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, in Case No: 93C 4483, for an offence involving dishonesty and drug trafficking. On the ground that the election was invalid by reason of corrupt practices and non- compliance with the provision of Electoral Act, 2022, the petitioners argued that INEC acted in breach of its own Regulations and Guidelines. The Petitioners argued that the electoral body was in the course of the conduct of the presidential poll, mandatorily required to prescribe and deploy technological devices for the accreditation, verification, continuation and authentication of voters and their particulars as contained in its Regulations. They are, therefore, praying the court to among other things, declare that all the votes recorded for Tinubu and the APC, were wasted votes owing to his non-qualification/disqualification. That it be determined that on the basis of the remaining votes (after discountenancing the votes credited to the 2nd Respondent) the 1st Petitioner (Obi) scored a majority of the lawful votes cast at the election and had not less than 25% of the votes cast in at least 2/3 of the States of the Federation, and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and satisfied the constitutional requirements to be declared the winner of the 25th February 2023 presidential election. That it be determined that the 2nd Respondent having failed to score one-quater of the votes cast at the presidential election in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, was not entitled to be declared and returned as the winner of the presidential election held on 25th February, 2023. In the alternative, the petitioners want an order cancelling the election and compelling INEC to conduct a fresh election at which Tinubu, Shettima and the APC, listed as 2nd, 3rd and 4th Respondents, respectively, shall not participate. They urged the court to declare that since Tinubu was not duly elected by a majority of the lawful votes cast in the election, therefore, his return as the winner of the presidential election, was unlawful, unconstitutional and of no effect whatsoever. In a further alternative prayer, the petitioners want the court to hold that the presidential election was void on the ground that it was not conducted substantially in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, and the 1999 Constitution, as amended. Likewise, an order, cancelling the presidential election conducted on 25th February 2023 and mandating the 1st Respondent to conduct a fresh election for the President, the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Both Obi and his Vice Presidential candidate, Baba Ahmed Datti, were in court on Wednesday to observe the proceeding. Meanwhile, the court will by 2pm, continue further hearing on the petition that was filed by candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who came second in the presidential election. Former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad has reacted after human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, called Katsina residents slaves for celebrating former President, Muhammad Buhari. KanyiDaily had reported how Katsina residents trooped out en-mass for the Durbar celebration in honor of Buhari who returned home to Daura after serving eight years as Nigerias president. Sharing the video, Bashir Ahmad, who was the special assistant on Digital Communications to Buhari, wrote, How to welcome your son after eight years serving the country as its Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. A Durbar celebration is currently holding in Daura in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari, after concluding his two-term tenure. Reacting to the video, Inibehe Effiong described the excited crowd as slaves in love with their chains, stressing that they are celebrating Buhari despite the killings that took place in Katsina under his leadership. He wrote, Slaves in love with their chains. Despite the wanton killings that took place in Katsina and other parts of the country under Buhari, they are celebrating him. Tribalism, ethnicity and religious bigotry has ruined Nigeria. Bashir appeared displeased with the use of the term slaves and questioned Inibehe about whether he had referred to the people as such, but the lawyer proceeded to provide an explanation for his choice of words. You really called them slaves?Bashir Ahmad asked. Inibehe Effiong replied Slaves in this context is figurative. Theres no physical chain on their necks. Mental slavery is however real. How do you explain the fact that the same Katsina that was plagued by killings under Buhari still celebrated him? Despite the killings we witnessed in Katsina under Buhari, they still gave him heroic welcome. Fela sang about suffering and smiling. What does governance mean to the average Nigerian? Why do we celebrate the very people who make our lives miserable? It is shameful! KanyiDaily also reported how Muhammadu Buhari was welcomed upon his return to his hometown of Daura in Katsina State, after completing eight years as the President of Nigeria. Related Ifedayo Olarinde, also known as Daddy Freeze, a well-known broadcaster and socialite, has backed President Bola Ahmed Tinubus call to remove petroleum subsidies. Kanyidaily recounts Tinubus announcement of subsidy removal at his inaugural speech at Eagles Square on Monday. He stated that the fuel subsidy is gone. Nigerians, particularly opposition groups, have expressed mixed feelings over the development. While some praised Tinubu for taking the risk, others said the move came at the wrong moment. READ ALSO: I Pray To Start Seeing RIP Everywhere Daddy Freeze Reacts As Man Wishes Phyna Death In response to the outrage from Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obis followers, Daddy Freeze, on his Instagram page, reminded them to an earlier post in which Peter Obi described gasoline subsidy in the country as an organised crime. Daddy Freeze responded to Obis tweet, saying, Before you start complaining, even Peter Obi said he would remove subsidy. Related The NLC and representatives of the Bola Tinubu-led federal government have been scheduled to meet today, Wednesday Joe Ajaero, the national president of the NLC, disclosed the development on Wednesday morning, stating that the meeting would be about the planned removal of the fuel subsidy According to Ajaero, the position of the NLC is known from the beginning, and the presidents pronouncement can be reviewed FCT, Abuja President Bola Tinubu-led federal government representatives will meet with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) team today, Wednesday, May 31, over the planned removal of the fuel subsidy. According to The Punch, Joe Ajaero, the national president of the NLC, revealed the development in an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday. Tinubu is to meet with NLC on Wednesday. Photo Credit: Bola Ahmed Tinubu Source: Twitter Why Tinubu will meet NLC on fuel subsidy removal The NLC president maintained that the congress had made its position known, and even if the president has good intentions, there must be an alternative before removing the subsidy. PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram get the most important news directly in your favourite app! Ajaero noted that Tinubu should first determine the implications of removing the fuel subsidy on the ordinary Nigerian. According to the NLC boss, the alternative that must be provided before removing the subsidy include repairing the four refineries and providing alternative transportation for Nigerian workers, to mention a few. Latest about Bola Tinubu, Joe Ajaero, NLC, Fuel Subsidy, Fuel Scarcity He then called for a review of the presidents pronouncement, describing it as a law made by humans and can be changed by humans. His statement reads in part: Does it bring pleasure to us to say subsidy is gone and people start suffering? Is it not part of leadership for us to look at how the suffering of the people can be reduced? Bola Tinubu had, on Monday, May 29, reiterated his plan to remove the fuel subsidy, adding that there was no provision for it in the 2023 budget. I pity Tinubu: NLC president speaks on disputes president-elect will inherit Legit.ng earlier reported that the president of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, has pitied the president-elect, Bola Tinubu, over the number of industrial disputes he will inherit from Monday. Ajaero said the Buhari administration tried to maintain industrial harmony, which was not enough to solve many industrial disputes it was leaving behind. The NLC president noted that agreement was made with the doctors but not implemented and that the issues with ASUU were not resolved. Source: Legit.ng The Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC) has rejected the new pump prices for petroleum products announced by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), saying it was against the interest of deregulation. The Labour movement noted that the oil giant couldnt be talking of deregulation in one breathe and Price fixing in another. The NNPCL on Wednesday jerked up the pump prices of premium motor spirit otherwise known as petrol (PMS) by over 200 per cent bringing the price of fuel to between N488 and N557 per litre. The NLC argued that the decision to announce a new pump price regime was against the interest of social dialogue. In a statement by its President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC called on the Federal Government to immediately instruct the NNPCL to withdraw this vexatious Pricing template to allow free flow of discussions by the parties. The NLC threatened to pull out of talks with the government if nothing was done to withdraw the new price template so that the dialogue can continue unhindered. The statement reads: We are worried that the Government through the NNPC despite the ongoing meeting of Stakeholders in the oil and Gas sector to manage the unilateral but unfortunate announcement by the President to withdraw subsidy on petroleum products, went ahead this morning to announce a new regime of prices under a new pricing template. This is an ambush and runs against the spirit and principles of Social Dialogue which remains the best platform available for the resolution of all the issues arising out of the petroleum Down-stream sector. Government cannot in one breathe be talking about deregulation and at the same time fixing the prices of Petroleum products. This negates the spirit of allowing the operation of the free market unless the government has as usual usurped, captured or become Market forces. It is therefore unacceptable and we seriously condemn it. Good faith negotiation is key to reaching agreement. What the government has done is like holding a gun to the head of Nigerian people and bring undue pressure on the leaders thus undermining the dialogue. We call on the federal government to immediately instruct the NNPC to withdraw this vexatious Pricing template to allow free flow of discussions by the parties. Nigerians would not accept any manipulations of any kind from any of the parties especially from the representatives of the government. Our commitment to this process is buoyed on the fact that all the parties would be committed to ensuring that it is carried out within the ambits of liberty without undue pressure. The release of that Template may not allow us to continue if nothing is done to withdraw it so that the dialogue can continue unhindered. It is clear that the Government is actually trying to scuttle the process. As it stands, the federal government has become fixated on their chosen course of action. Would this help this dialogue? It clearly will not. There must be flexibility to allow concessions and reasonable accommodation that will produce the best result for Nigerian people. This is what we all seek at this time. President Tinubu is in a meeting with the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The agenda of the meeting could not be ascertained but it would be recalled there was a situation, just about 24 hours ago at the Lagos offices of the EFCC where the operatives of the Department of State Service (DSS) barricaded the building. It was believed the topic of the ugly incident at the Lagos offices of the EFCC might have featured in topics the President discussed with Bawa. Tinubu on Tuesday evening ordered the DSS to immediately withdraw its men and vehicles from the EFCC offices, instructing that whatever misunderstanding might exist between both agencies be amicably resolved. A statement by the presidential spokesman, Tunde Rahman, on the debacle said: President Bola Tinubu has directed the Department of State Security Service to immediately vacate the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in Ikoyi, Lagos. The President gave the directive when reports that DSS officials stormed the EFCC office located on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos on Tuesday, preventing officials of the anti-graft agency from accessing their work place, was brought to his attention. The President said if there were issues between the two important agencies of government, they would be resolved amicably. Panic has gripped senators in the camp of a former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio as information filtered out that the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is withdrawing his support for him in the contest for the Senate President of the 10th National Assembly. Consequently, the senators mostly from the South West have called for a Friday meeting to review their position and chart a new course on the leadership of the Senate. A Senator from one of the states in the South West disclosed to our correspondent on condition of anonymity that the meeting was scheduled for Friday as they wanted to know the outcome of a crucial meeting of the leading tendency among the senators-elect scheduled for Thursday which they have strategically asked some of their members to attend. Recall that the All Progressives Congress, APC had in an ambiguous press statement two weeks ago announced the endorsement of Senator Godswill Akpabio and three others for the topmost positions in the National Assembly. Senator Akpabio from South-South was endorsed for Senate President, Senator Jubrin Barau from the North-west for Deputy Senate President, Honourable Tajudeen Abass, North-west for Speaker, House of Representatives and Hon. Kanu, South-East for Deputy Speaker. Protests, condemnations and strong criticisms across the country followed the announcement. While many queried the reasonability of the party allotting two of the six presiding offices in the National Assembly to a zone and leaving the North Central without any position many others criticized the zoning of deputy speaker to the South-East instead of the presidency of the Senate generally believed to be due to the zone. In addition, Nigerians were outraged by the micro zoning of the position of Senate President to Senator Godswill Akpabio who is at present being investigated by anti-graft agencies for a series of cases bothering on sleaze. However, inundated with the implications of supporting a senator known all over the world to be facing criminal cases of corruption, President Bola Tinubu was said to have heeded the advice of his trusted political allies by tacitly withdrawing his support for the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio. The President, the sources said was resolute in running a corruption-free government with emphasis on strengthening all the existing policies and institutions concerned with corruption towards achieving this goal In his inaugural speech, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared pointedly that his government would take proactive steps such as championing a credit culture to discourage corruption while strengthening the effectiveness and efficiency of the various anti-corruption agencies. With this statement, the Senator said most of us have come to the full realization of the fact that President Bola Tinubu would not for anything support any senator with myriads of cases of corruption in the anti-graft agencies after declaring before the world that he would strengthen and make them more effective. We have seen the follies in remaining in this camp. It will not work. We have fixed a meeting for Thursday where we are going to chart our next line of action. A Senator from one of the states in the South West confided in our correspondent. The camp which was mainly sustained by the ambiguous endorsement of the National Working Committee NWC of the party, a claim that the National Chairman of the party, Senator Adamu Abdullahi has debunked severally as he maintained that the party needed further and better consultations on the matter. Not only that, the National Chairman has not been mincing words in his response to all the senators and House of Representatives Members-elect who had gone to him to seek clarifications on the matter according to two senators who had sought such clarifications, the Chairman told them point blank that we have not taken a final decision on the zoning formula. Early last week, Senator Adamu Abdullahi openly told Honorable Tajudeen Abass one of the beneficiaries of the controversial zoning formula to stop parading himself as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, advising him to prepare himself for the contest for the position which would be finally decided on the floor of the house. Unknown gunmen have reportedly abducted 2 women leaders of the APC in Kaduna State. The women, identified as Birnin Gwari APC woman leader, Hajiya Lami Awarware & her assistant, Hajiya Haulatu Aliyu were reportedly kidnapped along Manini flashpoint of Birnin Gwari LGA of the state. They were said to be on their way back home after attending the inauguration ceremony of the new Governor of the state Senator Uba Sani on May 29. Chairman of Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressive Union Ishaq Usman Kasai disclosed this during an interview with journalists in Kaduna on May 31. According to him, the bandits blocked the road & kidnapped the two APC women leaders alongside scores of others. He said the victims were kidnapped on Tuesday & were taken to the forest by their abductors. The BEPU chairman, however said the kidnppers were yet to make contact with families of the victims neither have they made any ransom demands. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) Transportation Secretary Jimmy Bautista named Assistant Secretary Hector Villacorta as caretaker of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in light of the resignation of Jay Art Tugade. Bautista said on Tuesday that Villacorta will hold the LTO top post until Malacanang appoints a permanent chief, adding that there were a number of applicants for the position. "He is a very capable person. He has been with the government for many years. He was with COA (Commission on Appointments) for many years na level of secretary and he is a lawyer and he is qualified. But of course, we will wait for the final appointment," the secretary said of Villacorta. Villacorta is current transportation assistant secretary for communications and commuter affairs. He was the secretary of the Commission on Appointments (CA) during the Senate leadership of Senators Koko Pimentel and Tito Sotto. Villacorta said he will focus on resolving the lack of plastic cards and blank vehicle license plates, and will do an inventory of all the financial and physical resources of the agency. "This is not really a transition. It is a continuation of the efforts done by the LTO all these many decades. We live in an institution where personalities may change but we will carry on," he said. Last shots fired During the turnover ceremonies at the LTO headquarters on Wednesday, Tugade again took a swipe at Bautista. He cited differences in perspectives and principles as reasons for quitting earlier this month. "Napakahirap po dahil talagang gusto nga po namin talagang ituloy, pero dahil nga po sa pagkakaiba po ng pananaw, sa pagkakaiba po ng paniniwala, saka siguro po prinsipyo sa buhay na rin po namin ni Secretary Jimmy Bautista. Dahil po dito pinili ko na lang po bigyan si Sec. Jimmy Bautista ng kalayaan na piliin kung sino po ang mamumuno dito sa LTO, na mamili po siya kung sino po yung makakasundo niya at mamili po siya dun sa aayon sa mga polisiya na gusto po ni Sec Jimmy," he said. [Translation: It's tough because I wanted to continue, but I can't due to differences in perspectives, beliefs, and principles with Sec. Jimmy Bautista. Because of this, I gave him the freedom to choose who he wants to lead LTO someone he can get along with and someone who believes in the same policies.] In response, Bautista thanked Tugade for his stint as LTO chief, reiterating that it was Tugade's choice to resign. "I am very sorry that we will not be working together. I wish we can work together but it's your decision to leave LTO. I respect your decision and I look forward to still work, communicate with you," the transportation chief said. Tugade was initially appointed general manager of the Manila International Airport Authority. Days after, Cesar Chiong was reappointed to replace Tugade. In November 2022, Tugade was appointed LTO chief. In April, Tugade and Bautista blamed each other for the depleting supply of plastic cards for driver's license and blank vehicle license plates. Tugade said the department took over the bidding of plastic cards and license plates early this year resulting in delays. On the other hand, the transportation department said it was LTO's fault since it failed to conduct early procurement. As Tugade leaves his office, he reported his accomplishments including the efforts to create digital driver's license, creation of additional 10 LTO satellite offices, free theoretical and practical driving courses, and the increase in LTO's revenue during the first quarter of the year. The man committed suicide A University of Lagos (UNILAG) staff identified as Sunday Meshioye has reportedly committed suicide. Local reports claim that the man killed himself by drinking sniper after being forced to face a disciplinary panel set up to investigate an incident he was reportedly involved in. The deceased reportedly faced the disciplinary panel after the UNILAG bus he was driving got burnt. It was gathered that Meshioye took the deadly insecticide on Wednesday September 11, after facing the disciplinary panel set up to investigate the incident on Tuesday September 10. Pastor Joseph Kofi Martey When 52-year-old Yemisi John packed a few clothes and personal effects and embarked on a journey from her home in Akure, capital of Ondo State, little did she know that she had set in motion a sequence of events that would put her family through months of trauma. Her disappearance was a mystery for five months until detectives attached to Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT), head- ed by DCP Abba Kyari, traced her footsteps to her last known whereabouts: Summit Road, opposite Ra- dio Nigeria, Benin City, Edo State capital. It was the home of a pastor. Enter Pastor Joseph Kofi Martey of City of Fire Ministry who is now the primary suspect. He didnt give the police too much trouble. He confessed that Yemisi died in his house hours after they had sex. Fear of being lynched by neighbours, he claimed, pushed him to dump her body by the roadside. As a preacher, Martey knew a lot about the wages of sin. He knew he must account for his sin, and given the gravity of the crime, he appeared resigned to the gloomy fate ahead. The police, however, are not buying his confession hook, line and sinker. Detectives are saying the story is not as simple as narrated by the pastor. Solving the mysterious disappearance Relatives of the missing woman at first reported the matter to various police stations in Ondo state. On November 5, they wrote a petition to the Inspector General of Police about their daughter who went missing since she left her home on July 28, 2019. When they were directed to IRT office in Osogbo, Osun State, all they could tell detec- tives was that a certain Pastor Kofi who was Yemisis Facebook friend had chatted with her days before she left the house, but when contacted, the man claimed they were just friends on Facebook. The Osogbo IRT team, led by CSP Akindele, dug deeper and discovered that the pastor was more than a Facebook friend Yemisi had called him severally on the day she allegedly left her home in Akure; he was in contact with her when she arrived in Benin City; also Facebook chats and text messages showed that they had agreed to consummate their relationship, prompting Yemisi to volunteer to visit Martey in Benin. The evidence was indicting enough to warrant arresting the pastor. IRT operatives subsequently tracked him down to his residence in Benin City where he was arrested days later. Martey, 42, confessed to the crime, claiming he dumped the corpse by the roadside. Who took the corpse away? That is the big question he could not. Death after sex In an interview with Saturday Sun, Pastor Martey gave a background of how he arrived at his present Golgotha. His story: My father is a Ghanaian, but I was born and raised in Offa, Kwara State. He was a pastor and because of that, I was drawn to- wards serving God. As the child of a pastor, I was always in the church for one programme or the other. At a point, I wanted to stop because they were gradually turning me into a pastor. Unfortunately, I became sick and was at the point of death, when one of the prophets, who is close to my father, said that I must be a pastor for the rest of my life. After my secondary education, I relocated to Lagos and started to learn how to make shoes. I also found a good church and became a member. I started with Life and Life Christian church where I attended Bible school and was or- dained a pastor. While in the Bible school, I got a job in fruit juice processing company where I served as a marketer. He further claimed that he moved from one job to another until 2013 when he met his wife and they got married. But she lost her first pregnancy because she had excess sugar in her system. He continued: I treated her and a year later she became pregnant again. She was able to give birth but her sugar level was still high. We started moving her from one hospital to another till her family insisted that we should relocate to Edo State. Her family helped to pay for the apartment. I joined City of Fire Ministry where I was made an assistant pastor. I could not work because of her ill health and the little baby that needed attention. We barely survived on the little allowance that the church was paying me. When her illness became worse, her family took her away. She died months later. Meeting on Facebook Months after the death of his wife, Martey decided to join a Facebook group known as Single Parents which was where he met Yemisi. I know her as Titilola John; it was at the police station that they told me that her name is Yemisi, he said. From casual chatting, they became friends. We also exchanged phone numbers. I have written a lot of Christian books, but I need an expert to edit it for me. She suggested that I should allow her do it free of charge. He suggested it was the woman who pushed for a relationship: She was based in Akure and had been disturbing that I should visit her. I told her I did not have much money to send to her. She then insisted that she would borrow money from a friend and travel to Benin. She kept saying I should allow her to be part of my life and help me take care of my son. On July 28, she called me that she was already in Benin and cannot trace my house. I was surprised but because she was already in Benin I decided to go to the bus stop and pick her up. She was carrying a small bag. As soon as we got home, she took her bath and relaxed. I prepared Indomie noodles for her and she ate a little and drank malt. He also tacitly blamed the de- ceased for initiating what happened afterwards. At about 9 pm after praying, she asked me if I was just going to allow her sleep without touching her. I told her I need to remarry and have childrenbut she was 54 and above childbearing agebut I told her I cannot marry her. She kept pleading that we were a good match, arguing that I am a writer and she was good at editing and she could get pregnant by the grace of God. She pleaded with me that since her husband left her, no man had touched her and that she needed sex. I agreed. We made love. It did not last more than 20 minutes because I was tired. She was satisfied with the little time we spent. We slept off and around 4 am. Death after sex Martey recalled being terrified to discover the woman whom he had sex with some minutes ago was ly- ing dead on his bed. I tried to wake her up so that we would pray. Her body was cold and when I turned her around there was foam on her mouth, he narrated. I panicked and did not know what to do. I have not lived for long in that area. If neighbours discovered that a woman died in my house, they would kill me before I get to the police station. I am the only one living in the compound, so no one saw us when we walked into the compound. I decided to dispose her body before the day break. I dragged her from the bed to the street and dumped her by the roadside. When he came out at about 5am, he saw people gathered around the corpse snapping pictures. They wondered who dropped the dead body there. I walked past them pretending to be an onlooker. After- wards, I went back to my room, knelt down and prayed. At 6 am, I came out again and discovered the body was gone. Three days later, I received a call but refused to pick it because I was scared the caller could become suspicious about my shaky voice. No one called again till three months later when I received another call from her family member. They asked me if I knew who Yemisi was and I said yes. They asked if I had seen her recently and I said no. I told the caller that we were just Facebook friends and I have never seen her in person. Martey claimed he was tormented by guilty conscience. I couldnt even tell the General Overseer of the church because I was scared that they will condemn me, he said, Everyone will say that I committed fornication and this was the way God chooses to punish me. He added: I never had peace of mind. This was why I kept her phones and bag; my mind told me that one day, police might come for me. Martey insisted he did not poison her because I ate from the food. He said: If I killed her, will I stay in Benin and wait for police to come and arrest me? Police should go back to that street and ask them if a certain corpse was dumped on our street around June. How I wish that police can find the corpse, this is the only way that I can prove that I am innocent. I have a lung disease, so I cannot even have sex with a woman for more than 20 minutes. Once more, he admitted his guilt: I have sinned against God that is why he is punishing me like this. Case not closed yet Nonetheless, the police did not believe his confession is the end of the investigation. We are still looking for her (Yemisi) dead or alive. Whatever he is saying is his own side of the story. Its only when the body is found and an autopsy performed that we can ascertain the circumstances surrounding her death, a police source claimed. Finding the corpse will confirm or refute his claim. It is possible that she was murdered, said the source. *** Source: Sun News File Photo of NSCDC Officials NSCDC Nasarawa state command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested a quack medical practitioner for allegedly killing a three-year-old girl through illegal blood transfusion. Mohammed Mahmoud-Fari, state commandant of NSCDC paraded the 27 years-old suspect, Muddansir Idris at the state command in Lafia on Monday. Mahmoud-Fari said the suspect was arrested from the Kofan-Sarkin-Power area of Lafia following report from the parents of the deceased on Friday, Jan. 31. According to the commandant, the suspect had on the fateful day, transfused blood to the child at a medicine store in the area, which resulted to bleeding from all her body openings.Sensing danger, the suspect ran away and the baby was rushed to the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, where doctors tried frantically to save her life to no avail. We were able to trace and arrest the suspect and also seal the premises, Mahmoud-Fari said. He said investigation revealed that the suspect had no record of professional qualification to practice as a health personnel. Mahmoud-Fari said the command was also on the trail of the blood donor, now at large. The commandant said the suspect would be charged for culpable homicide as soon as investigation was concluded. Meanwhile, the suspect claimed to be an environmental health officer currently studying at the School of Health Technology in Gboko, Benue state. He told journalists that the child was brought his medicine store weak and pale, prompting him to transfuse blood. He however, said there was complication during the process leading to the death of the child. He expressed remorse over the incident and appealed for mercy, saying he had no intention of killing the child but trying to save her life. Port operators under the aegis of the Lagos Pilotage Berthing Meeting have kicked against the imposition of $300 per day passage fee on ocean-going and coastal vessels by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA). In a memo obtained by National Daily on Monday, NIWA stated that forthwith, all ocean and sea going vessels that come into the inland waterways must pay a passage fee of $300 per day or its Naira equivalent. The memo addressed to the Chairman, Lagos Pilotage Berthing Meeting and titled Passage Toll for Seagoing Vessels, was signed by the General Manager, Lagos Zone of NIWA, Muazu Sambo. The memo reads in part: In line with section 28 subsection 1 of the NIWA establishment Act and the NIWA approved tariff 2017 edition (Section U.I and subsection U.1.2), any sea/ocean/coastal going vessel that comes into the inland waterways is liable to pay passage fees of $300 per day or its equivalent. In view of the above, you are advised to ensure all sea going vessels that berth at your jetty comply with these provisions of the law so as to avoid any form of embarrassment that may arise from non-compliance. You are kindly enjoined to give maximum support to the authority in its effort to ensure that all lawful revenues due to the treasury are collected and remitted as at when due. Meanwhile, Secretary of the Lagos Pilotage Berthing Meeting, Lucky Egbede said the leadership of the Meeting has asked members to disregard the notice because, according to him, the body is not under the supervision of NIWA but the Nigerian Port Authority (NPA). NIWA said any seagoing vessel that comes into the port will pay $300 per day. For example, if on the average, there are 20 vessels inside the port, and each of the vessels is paying $300 per day, and we have berthing day of about three days for a vessel to stay in the port, invariably, they are saying a ship should pay $900 per day. What benefit is attached to this fee? Nothing. But just because NIWA is a government agency, they will be issuing charges. They have called us at the NIWA office and we have told them we are not going to pay the fee because our principals are NPA. We dont do business with NIWA. So they should go through NPA. We need to hear from NPA first. I know NIWA is supposed to be registering tug boats and badges but I wonder what their concern about ocean going vessels is. When we talk about ocean going vessels, we mean big vessels and they are under NPA, he said. Egbede also called on other relevant government agencies to intervene on the issue. You will forgive me because this is a long letter and I am fully aware that your attention span or ability to retain too much information in one fell swoop may not be as good as it used to be. Mr. President, many believe that you cannot read and those that believe that you can claim that you cannot go beyond three lines. They say outside of that you can only comprehend cartoons. I do not share either view. I know you well enough to concede that when you consider a literary submission of sufficient importance you have the prescence of mind, discipline, health, intelligence and ability to read through it very slowly and very carefully weighing up every word. And that is precisely as it should be. The first open letter that I wrote to you was in December 2015 and the following serves as the second. You will forgive me because this is a long letter and I am fully aware that your attention span or ability to retain too much information in one fell swoop may not be as good as it used to be. Nevertheless I urge you to do your best to muster the courage, energy and intellectual stamina to stay the course and to find the time out of your busy schedule to read it from beginning to end. I have written it because our nation is entering into dangerous and precarious waters and I sense that something will give very soon. I am therefore constrained to use this medium to bring my observations to your attention. Be rest assured that I speak out of nothing but love and concern for the welfare of the Nigerian people and it is not my intention to insult you or undermine and disrespect your office but rather to shine the light of truth on all your activities with a view to assisting and encouraging you to change your ways. You will agree with me that, no matter how bitter it may be, that truth must be told. This is a sacred obligation on our part as leaders and a matter of duty and honor. I owe you, the Nigerian people and posterity that much and I have little doubt that no matter how badly you may feel after reading it, history will vindicate me and prove me right and one day you will acknowledge and recognise the profundity, wisdom and foresight in my constant and consistent criticisms, admonitions and counsel. Outside of that it is my earnest prayer that the God of Heaven, whose I am and whom I serve, will judge between you and I. Your Excellency, kindly note and consider the following. You released hundreds of Boko Haram fighters from prison claiming that they are reformed and a few days later 30 of your citizens are blown up by the same Boko Haram in Borno state. Worse still on that same day 16 members of the same family and four others were herded into a room and burnt alive by Fulani militants in Kaduna state. After these terrible events instead of rushing back home to stand with your people, you stayed in Addis Ababa, lamenting and crying about the security situation in Libya and you sent your Vice to a funeral in Nairobi. Such insensitivity, even by your own standards, is rarely seen. It took you three long days to finally see fit to leave your foreign friends, leave Addis Ababa and fly directly to Maiduguri to express your condolences to the Governor and people of Borno. Even then you could not muster the courage to go to the town of Auno where the bombing took place but only to Maiduguri, the capital of the state. Understandably you were received with boos, jeers and shouts of ba ma so (meaning we dont want) by the crowds that lined the streets and this was an eloquent testimony to the fact that the entire nation, including the north that you claim to represent and be a champion of, is fed up with you and can no longer bear your incompetence and inability to run the affairs of our nation. Worst still hours after your condolence visit Boko Haram attacked Maiduguri itself hitting one of its suburbs called Jidari Polo. Their leader, a cowardly creature that can best be described as a psychopathic, delusional, sociopathic, mentally-deranged, murderous, bloodthirsty, bloodlusting and unconciable monster by the name of Sheik Abubakar Shekau, even had the nerve to send you a public warning in a recorded message that was released to the public after you left in which he arrogantly and boastfully declared that you must never come back to Borno again or you would be attacked and that you should fear and serve God and not cows. He added the following, Buhari thinks he is a general but God says he is nothing. He hasnt achieved anything in the sight of God. Buhari is deceiving the people and playing to the gallery. Mr. President he has sent his message to you and to Nigeria and we have heard him loud and clear. Yet most disturbing was not his sheer effontry but the fact that the only thing that you had to offer the leaders and people of Borno state when you got there was a lame and self-debasing question which was I wonder how Boko Haram still survives? You went further by blaming them for not taking care of local security forgetting that that is meant to be your job and not theirs. In your so-called condolence visit you refused to take responsibility for your own inaction and failure and instead you sought to pass the buck to the very victims of terror that you claim to have come to mourn! You refused to inspire and encourage them and instead you accused them of, at best, rresponsible behaviour and, at worst, collusion with the enemy. This is not just a case of rubbing salt in their wounds but it is more like blowing them up and killing them all over again. Worse still as you spoke your Minister of Defence, who sat just a few feet away from you, fell fast asleep! Mr. President I really do wonder whether you have any feeling or any compassion at all? Has the milk of human kindness stopped flowing through your veins? Do you know that young students, women, infants and babies were amongst those that were blown up in the Auno atrocity? Yes you issued a statement immediately but you didnt show up till three days later and your Vice, who was in the country the day it happened, never showed up at all and instead jetted out to President Arap Mois burial in Nairobi! Kindly tell me what the Nigerian people have done to deserve this level of contempt? Or is there more to it than meets the eye? Forgive me Mr. President but I am constrained to ask, why do you love terrorism, bloodshed and violence so much? Why do you find it so easy to forgive terrorists that are slaughtering your own people? Are you feeding your spiritual foundation and getting your power from the spilling of innocent blood? Meanwhile your own Chief of Army Staff has told us today that, we have defeated insurgency but we are facing the challenge of terrorism. There is no-where you will not find Boko Haram, even in Lagos here, there are Boko Haram. In Kaduna there are Boko Haram. There are more across the North East. Many have been arrested here in Lagos. We have been tracking them. We arrest them and take them into custody. I commend the Chief of Army Staff for his admission of failure but what he didnt add was that after taking them into custody you ordered him to release them and even draft some of them into the Nigerian Army on the spurious grounds that they have repented and that they have been reformed. Again the truth is that neither you or him ever defeated insugency or anything else. Instead you encouraged and supported it! Both of you have failed the Nigerian people just as I predicted that you would and if you had any decency or honor you would BOTH resign. Aside that it takes a very mean, callous, wicked and cruel President and Commander-in-Chief to release 1,400 terrorists who have murdered, butchered, slaughtered, tortured and maimed his soldiers and terrorised his people over the last 5 years. Mr. President I am constrained to tell you that some believe that you are a sadist! They believe that your heart is as hard as stone and your soul is as black as night. Relevant and instructive are the words of Mr. Charles Ogbu, a brilliant writer and essayist who has consistently proved that he is not only insightful but also deeply profound. Three days after the Auno bombing he wrote the following: Those who are asking for the sack of the Service Chiefs as a solution to the upsurge in Boko Haram terrorism are missing the point. Nigeria is not currently being overrun by terrorists because we have a set of incompetent service Chiefs or soldiers who cannot fight the terrorists. Not at all. The only reason the Boko Haram terrorists are having a field day is because we have a President and a Commander in Chief who shares the same ideology as the terrorists and as a result prefers pandering to them as opposed to fighting them. He went further by writing, In fact a betting man would bet that the only difference between the Boko Haram terrorists killing, maiming and beheading Nigerians in the Northeast and our President and Commander-In-Chief is in their name and location. One is named Boko Haram and operates from the bush while the other one is named Muhammadu Buhari and operates from Aso Rock. If we were to remove the cloak of fear of detention by state oppressive forces, we would all admit they are both pursuing the same goal and doing a very good job of it. You that is reading this, you know this is exactly what is happening even if you may not want to publicly say it for whatever reason. He concluded by asking, Who rehabilitates and releases captured terrorists back into the wild at a time the terrorists are still visiting death and destruction on his country? Even America with her sophisticated military doesnt release arrested terrorists in the heat of the war because the chances of these terrorists going back into the wild to continue killing are very high. Mr. President, forgive me for saying so but the verdict is out and Mr. Ogbu has made a valid point. This calls for much soul-searching on your part. I urge you to bear in mind that trading in the blood of your own people and indulging in all manner of barbarity, suppression of dissent, persecution of your perceived enemies and evil comes with a heavy price. Every Pharaoh, Sennacherub, Herod, Jezebel and Nebuchadnezzar has a bad end. Every tyrant, no matter how powerful and highly-placed, will eventually account to God and the people for his brutality and wickedness. Yours will be no different. Anyone that doubts that should consider the plight of the Sudans former President, General Al Bashir. As the great black American Nation of Islam leader and one of my favourite heroes, Malcom X, once said the chickens have finally come home to roost. This has always been the case and it will always be the case. It is only a matter of time. Over the last 5 years hundreds of thousands have died under your watch and virtually all have been killed by those from your core northern region. You turned a blind eye to it and even encouraged it. Today belongs to you but let me assure you that tomorrow belongs to those of us that you have killed, persecuted, oppressed and treated with disdain and contempt. On the 11th of February, at the burial ceremony of the 18 year old Christian martyr Nnandi Michael (the Seminarean that was abducted and later murdered by Fulani herdsmen) the respected Catholic cleric Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, a man of immense moral authority and intellectual vigour, courageously admonished you before the entire world, spoke the bitter truth and reflected the thoughts of millions from all over the country. Amongst many other things he said the following: This President has displayed the greatest degree of insensitivity in managing our countrys rich diversity. He has subordinated the larger interests of the country to the hegemonic interests of his co-religionists and clansmen and women. The impression created now is that, to hold a key and strategic position in Nigeria today, it is more important to be a northern Muslim than a Nigerian. He did not stop there but went on to say, We are being told that this situation has nothing to do with Religion. Really? It is what happens when politicians use religion to extend the frontiers of their ambition and power. Are we to believe that simply because Boko Haram kills Muslims too, they wear no religious garb? Are we to deny the evidence before us, of kidnappers separating Muslims from infidels or compelling Christians to convert or die? If your son steals from me, do you solve the problem by saying he also steals from you? He then said, The Fulani, his (President Muhammadu Buhari) innocent kinsmen, have become the subject of opprobrium, ridicule, defamation, calumny and obloquy. His north has become one large grave yard, a valley of dry bones, the nastiest and the most brutish part of our dear country. He added, Today, our years of hypocrisy, duplicity, fabricated integrity, false piety, empty morality, fraud and Pharisaism have caught up with us. Nigeria is on the crossroads and its future hangs precariously in a balance. This is a wakeup call for us. As St. Paul reminds us; The night is far spent, and the day is at hand. Therefore, let us cast away the works of darkness and put on the armour of light. It is time to confront and dispel the clouds of evil that hover over us. He concludes by saying, On our part, I believe that this is a defining moment for Christians and Christianity in Nigeria. We Christians must be honest enough to accept that we have taken so much for granted and made so much sacrifice in the name of nation building. We accepted President Buhari when he came with General Idiagbon, two Muslims and two northerners. We accepted Abiola and Kingibe, thinking that we had crossed the path of religion, but we were grossly mistaken. When Jonathan became President, and Senator David Mark remained Senate President while Patricia Ette was chosen by the South West became a Speaker. The Muslim members revolted and forced her resignation with lies and forgery. The same House would shamelessly say that they had no records of her indictment. Today, we are living with a Senate whose entire leadership is in the hands of Muslims. Christians have continued to support them. For how long shall we continue on this road with different ambitions? Christians must rise up and defend their faith with all the moral weapons they have. I assure you that these were not the words of Bishop Kukah alone but rather the Holy Spirit speaking through him. He spoke the mind and the oracles of the Living God and you would do well to humble yourself, take heed and appreciate the Lords admonition and counsel. Let us hope that you disregard the advice of the hardliners around you, learn from these words and change your dastardly ways though I doubt that you will. Whatever the case and whatever you choose to do or not to do, know this: the die is cast, Caesar has crossed the Rubicorn, the horse has bolted from the stable, the cat is out of the bag, our eyes have been opened, we have lost all sense of fear and Nigeria can NEVER be the same again. Mr. President, here ends my counsel to you but permit me to conclude this contribution with a closer look at the north that you love so much and that you seek to empower and enthrone forever. According to the World Bank 87% of poor people in Nigeria are in the North. One wonders what 58 years of northern oppression, tyranny, aggression, manipulation and hegemony over Nigeria has actually done for the northern masses. Since indendence mass poverty, terrorism, religious bigotry, ethnic hegemony, Islamic fundamentalism, arrogance, born to rule syndrome, the worship of cows, ignorance, disease, hate, racism, feudalism, pedophilia, child marriage, VVF, gender inequality, male chauvinism, the persecution of Christians, the suppression of women, corruption, deceit, greed, ingratitude, a sense of entitlement, tyranny, insensitivity, bloodshed, genocide, ethnic cleansing, mass murder and gratuitous violence have all been deeply embedded in and associated with the core north. Worse still, according to UNICEF, if Nigeria were to ever break up the core north would be the poorest spot on planet Earth. I guess this is why northerners keep screaming one Nigeria and threatening the lives and liberty of those that do not share their view. Without Nigeria they would be groping in the dark, wobbling on their feet and literally starve to death. All this yet they insist that they were born to rule and that southerners and Middle Belters were born to serve them and be their slaves! Professor Yusuf Dankofa of the Faculty of Law at Ahmadu Bello University who happens to be a northerner himself put it in very clear terms and spoke the bitter truth when he wrote the following: I think the north is only interested in power and nothing more.The sweetness of power and the allure it brings is what appeals to them and not work. If not, how can a region be so decimated by its own internal contradictions and trudge on as if the region is not regressing. In the face of calamity, what you see is eerie silence, since power is with their elites who are thoroughly dependent on public treasury to survive.The poor too draws happiness from the fact that power is in the hands of their elites even if they will die of poverty and insurgency. We are happy that power is with us even though we dont know what to do with it.This mindset will definitely lead others to seek to move out of the union. You cant slow down your own progress and those of others and expect them to clap for you. Dankofa is absolutely right! What a people! What a country! Yet I do not blame the core northeners: I blame southern and Middle Belt politicians and leaders who have refused to unite and who have failed to resist them and stand up to them over the last 58 years. The history of our nation records that there were a few great men of remarkable courage, extraordinary fortitude and immense valour that not only did their best but were also gallant, fearless, selfless and outstanding in their quest to deliver our people. Some of them were martyred and others were jailed whilst all suffered an unprecedented and unbearable level of humiliation and persecution. Yet despite it all they continued the struggle. They identified and understood the problem and fought hard in their respective ways to fix it and deliver our people from northern hegemony, domination and bondage but sadly they all failed. The new generation of southern and Middle Belt leaders must NOT fail because this is the final lap. For our generation failure is NOT an option. We have no choice but to use all lawful and non-violent means to break the yoke of subjugation, servitude, slavery and bondage and to succeed in our quest for total liberation. If we fail to do so future generations of our people shall NEVER be free again. We need the prayers of the saints and the fastings and supplications of the intercessors, the Prophets, the men and women of God and the Body of Christ! We need the Holy Spirit of the Living God: the El Shaddai, the Elohim and the Adonai. We need the Man of War, the Comforter, the Lord of Hosts and the Ancient of Days! We need a great deliverer: a Moses, a Joshua, a Caleb, a David, a Cyrus, a Samson, a Gideon, a Jeptha, an Esther and a Jehu all rolled into one. We need men and women of courage to pick up the gauntlet, take up the challenge and lead us in this great and cataclysmic battle and this monumental struggle. We need to close ranks, build bridges amongst ourselves and forget past hurts, past disputes and past disagreements and agree to be totally and completely united. Finally we need to look within ourselves and firmly resolve that it would be better to live a short life and die as free men than live a long one and live as slaves. We fight not for ourselves but for future generations of our family, our lineage, our loved ones and our compatriots. God forbid that they should have to live through the hell that we had to suffer called Nigeria: a land where the accursed rule over the blessed and where slaves ride on horseback whilst Princes and Kings walk around in bare feet. Victor Giadom The plan to replace embattled national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has taken serious dimension after South South leaders endorsed Victor Giadom as Oshiomholes replacement. According to Sunnews, they also insisted that the partys National Executive Committee scheduled for next week Tuesday, must hold. They have also urged all members of the party from the six states in the geographical zone to attend the meeting, saying the NEC is the only democratic instrument of the party authorized to do so by its constitution. These decisions were reached on Thursday night in Abuja, at Edo State Governors Lodge in Asokoro, despite the call by the national vice chairman, South South, Hillard Eta, for the boycott of meeting of the ruling party. A communique released at the end of the meeting was read by the governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki. It said seven ministers, serving National Assembly members, former ministers, former governors, former NASS members, and all zonal and state executive members of the party attended the zonal caucus meeting. The leaders included the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; Minister of Power, Goddy Agba; Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire; Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo; former Edo State governor Oserheimen Osunbor; immediate past Director General of Nigerian Maritime Safety Administration Agency (NIMASA), Dakuku Peterside and Senator Ndoma Egba. Others present were former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Usani Usani; factional chairman of Edo State chapter of the party, Anselm Ojezua, Senator Domingo Obende and Senator James Akpan Udoedege, including Sam Sam Jaja, former TUC President, Peter Esele among others. The communique noted in part, at the meeting, the leaders of the zone deliberated extensively on situation in the party and at the end of the meeting, they adopted the following resolutions: That as a party, we commend our brother, the acting chairman of the APC, Victor Giadom, for rising to the occasion by providing leadership for the party in this trying times. That we fully support the convening of the National Executive Committee meeting on Tuesday March 17, as the NEC is the only recognised organ under the constitution of our party to resolve the APC crisis. That we insist that the party should respect the current zoning arrangement by retaining the chairmanship of our great party in the South-South zone even in an acting capacity. We resolved that the most senior officer of the party from the zone, being the national acting secretary, Chief Victor Giadom, should be confirmed acting national chairman for the time-being. We urged all our brothers and sisters from the zone to fully embrace the NEC meeting and not boycott the emergency NEC meeting, which has been slated for Tuesday March 17th. Because boycott in a democratic environment is always counterproductive. BLOOMINGTON A 33-year-old man Maywood man was sentenced to 11 years in prison after pleading guilty Wednesday to a firearm charge and delivering cocaine. Trevon J. Triplett received his sentence before Judge William Yoder, who accepted his guilty plea on unlawful delivery of a controlled substance containing cocaine (Class 1 felony) and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon (Class 2 felony). According to charging documents, the Bloomington Police Department's Vice Unit arranged two purchases from Triplett on June 22, 2022, and July 11, 2022. In the latter, Triplett was arrested and officers located a firearm in his vehicle after a search was conducted. As part of the plea agreement, Triplett's other charges were dismissed. They included three counts of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance (Class 1 felony), one count of unlawful possession of a firearm while on mandatory supervised release (Class 2 felony), and one count of violation of the Illinois Firearm Owners Identification Card Act (Class 3 felony). He was sentenced to 11 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections with credit for 323 days already served in the McLean County jail, and 39 days for volunteer work or other jail assignments. Following the prison sentence, he will be required to serve one year of mandatory supervised release and pay all necessary fines and fees. The case was prosecuted by Assistant State's Attorney Spencer Chikahisa. Public defender Matthew Koetters represented Triplett. Updated mug shots from The Pantagraph Bryant Lewis Derek Roesch Justin M. Mata Marcus D. Wesley Phillip Tinch Trisha L. Hanke William B. Givens David L. Oliver Kenneth E. Funk Jordan R. King Holly M. Isaacson Kenneth L. Minton Tony L. Jackson Britley L. Hilger Jasmine L. Smith Jackie S. Claypool Noah R. Demuth Brandon L. Parsano Alexander N. Williams Carlos Sanchez-Solozarzano Jaylin S. Bones Jordan R. King Dominique M. Banks Austin T. Daugherty Sandra M. Lewis Samantha E. Morris Nolan C. Love Nikkita L. Sandefur Katlin M.B. Wilson Eli C. Garozzo Tysean T. Townsend Curtis J. Byrd Noral K. Nelson Charles J. Tankson Davis, Micah S Livingston, Joshua D. Kevin L. Ewen Emmanuel K. Mpay Ahmad S. Manns Dylan R Mann Tony L. Jackson William R. Linden Zadek U. Moen Zachary T. Willis Cecily M. Sexton Tonisha A. Jackson James A. McConnaughay Jessica M. Longberry Barry D. Guyton Keon E. Spiller All but seven states tax some form of individual income, and all but nine states tax wage income. In total, individual income tax accounted for 9.9% of total state and local revenue and 22.8% of total state and local tax revenue in 2020, the most recent full year available. Today, individual income tax makes up a much larger proportion of total tax revenue than it did several decades ago in 1977, when it accounted for less than 17% of total tax revenue. While both individual income tax as a share of total revenue and as a share of total tax revenue dipped from 2019 to 2020, individual income taxes continue to be a significant revenue source for most states. Looking ahead, many of the temporary factors that helped push state rainy day funds to record highs are projected to subside. Another issue for certain locations is that increases in remote work opportunities have encouraged residents to leave high-tax states, especially those states with high income taxes. According to the Tax Foundation, states with double-digit income taxes (such as California, New Jersey, and New York) were among the states that lost the most residents in 2021. Meanwhile, states that forgo individual income taxes altogether (such as Florida, Texas, and Nevada) reported some of the largest population increases. To find the states that collect the most individual income tax, researchers at HowtoHome.com analyzed data from the U.S. Census Bureau. The researchers ranked states according to each states individual income tax revenue as a share of total revenue. Researchers also calculated individual income tax revenue as a share of total tax revenue, total individual income tax revenue, total tax revenue, and total revenue. Here are the states that collect the most individual income tax. The Bulk Oil and Storage Distribution Company Limited has made a cash donation of GH100,000 in support of the One-Student, One-Laptop (1S1L) initiative of the University of Ghana. At a brief ceremony on Tuesday, 30 May 2023, Edwin Provencal, the Managing Director of BOST presented the cheque on behalf of the company to the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo. In making the presentation, Edwin Provencal disclosed that the objectives of the 1S1L initiative tie in perfectly with BOSTs goal of supporting brilliant but needy students to access quality education. He disclosed that BOST through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm has supported many children in its areas of operations. We are currently supporting fifty brilliant but needy students in our areas of operations. We have facilities in Tema, Kumasi, Bolga, Buipe, Savelegu, and Akosombo. We went into those communities to identify brilliant but needy students and sponsored fifty of them nationwide to UMAT with full scholarships. Im passionate about this because there are so many needy people out there who may become the next president of Ghana with a little push and opportunity. I know what it is to be poor so Im aligned with this initiative and we are happy that it also aligns with the internal strategy of helping needy but brilliant students, he said. Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo on her part commended BOST highly for the initiative and expressed hope that the gesture will mark the beginning of a long-term and mutually-beneficial relationship between UG and BOST. Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo also disclosed the inspiration behind the initiative which she asserts forms part of plans by the management to promote high-quality learning and teaching. She disclosed that the institution seeks to improve students experience on campus and ensure that it remains globally competitive and that the 1S1L initiative is a component of three-phased digitally driven agenda. Its just over a year ago since we launched the Vice Chancellors program to enhance the UG-student experience through digitalization. This was inspired by my period as Pro-Vice-Chancellor for academic and student affairs when unfortunately COVID hit. But on the other hand, it accelerated our digitalization program. Since we launched the program, weve had support from various organizations and today we are happy we can put BOSTs name down on the list of organizations that are supporting our program here. We are very much appreciative of this gesture, she said. Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo also praised the management of BOST for its support for brilliant but needy students and appealed to other corporate institutions to emulate the good works of BOST. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video About 11 million active Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards yet to be re-registered with the Ghana Card risk disconnection and deletion tomorrow as the deadline for the exercise expires today. Following this development, hundreds of people, majority of whom are trying to register their SIMs for the first time, have thronged some National Identification Authority (NIA) centres in a desperate attempt to secure their Ghana Card. The national card is the only prerequisite identification document admissible for the completion of the re-registration of SIM cards. When the Daily Graphic visited some of the NIA centres, including the Premium Centre of the authority at its head office at Shiashie, Accra and other premium centres in some regions, there were long queues of last-minute card acquirers dashing to complete the process. Many of the subscribers had come to link their Ghana Card with their SIM cards to satisfy the NCA requirement before the May 31 deadline. While the centre with the capacity to process 650 applications sees no crowds, the long queues at the place has compelled the NIA to erect canopies outside its halls to accommodate the increasing numbers. The Executive Secretary of NIA, Professor Ken Agyeman Attafuah, expressed regret that such a large number of people would rush to pay a premium fee of GH280 for a service they could have accessed for free a few weeks back. He said it was the attitude of some people to relax in obtaining the Ghana Card until the deadlines were near. Prof. Attafuah said based on its daily operational capacity, including that of its key partners, CAL Bank, coupled with limited cards at the moment, the NIA would not be able to issue all the people calling at its premium centres with cards. At the moment, given the reality and the debt owed the private partners, the public needing the service are finding recourse to the premium registration service not by laid down procedures, but by the zest and urgency of their needs and we are trying to cope with this, he explained. The NIA Executive Secretary said the authority had a daily capacity of about 650 at its head office and a little less of that at other premium centres, making it impossible to issue the thousands of people applying for the cards before the SIM card re-registration deadline yesterday. He explained, however, that since the deadline was due, the NIA had to mobilise additional hands to serve all the applicants at its head office premium centre yesterday. Prof. Attefuah said apart from NIA offices where the Ghana Card services could be accessed for free, additional registration points were established with the approach of the SIM card re-registration deadlines to ease the pressure. As a responsive state institution, we take no delight in seeing Ghanaians going through the anguish of queuing. So we made these opportunities and facilities available in anticipation that people would take advantage for free, Prof. Attafuah said. However, he said it had become the phenomenon that any time the deadline was extended, people became lackadaisical making most of the centres ghost towns. We see a phenomenon where anytime the deadline for the SIM card re-registration was extended, the additional re-registration points plus the traditional NIA offices become ghost towns and whenever the deadline is approaching then we have a situation of an avalanche of demands and in some cases people stampeding even though this is at a cost, he pointed out. Premium service Prof. Attafuah said although the premium service required booking the NIA, looking at the high demand due to the deadline, had opened its doors to the hundreds of people to help them beat the deadline even though they had not booked appointments. He said the NIA had brought in canopies and chairs to accommodate the extra load of numbers and give them some comfort. It is a regrettable situation but it is the reality and we have to deal with it. It is unfortunate that so many people have to be in the sun and queue for so long for a paid for service that had been traditionally and customarily available to the public at no cost, Prof. Attafuah said. Extension The Public Relations Manager of AirtelTigo, Felicia Thornhill, told the Daily Graphic that a lot more subscribers of AritelTigo visited its premises to begin the re-registration exercise yesterday, unlike the previous weeks and months preceding the May 31 deadline. She said to help get all subscribers registered to avoid deactivation which would not benefit the business, the company had deployed most of its staff to the field to assist subscribers in the re-registration exercise. Each staff has also been tasked to reach about 10 subscribers yet to complete the registration to remind them of the exercise and assist them to complete it. It will affect our business and so an extension would be appreciated as we have more customers who are yet to complete the registration exercise, Ms Thornhill said. Context At the inception of the SIM re-registration exercise on October 1, 2021, there were about 42 million active SIM cards in the country. They were made up of SIM cards registered with identity cards (IDs) such as the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) cards, passports, driving licence, among others. The National Communications Authority at whose behest the re-registration started, said a lot of the IDs were not verified at the time they were used to register the SIMs. After the first phase of the exercise, there were about 36 million active SIM cards in circulation as of last month, out of which 25 million (69.6 per cent) have been duly reregistered. This means that over 25.4 million SIM cards had completed both stages one and two of the SIM re-registration which was done with verified Ghana Cards. The remaining 11 million, representing 30. 4 per cent, include active SIM cards exempted based on various demographics and active SIM cards that have not been registered with the Ghana Card using the current process. Already the NCA has deactivated about 6.1 million SIM cards which belonged to subscribers that had completed only stage one of the current registration process. Tomorrow's deadline for SIM cards re-registration follows a similar announcement of mass disconnection of unregistered SIM cards before April 17, 2023. At the time, about 33.8 million, representing 79. 60 per cent had completed only the first phase of linking their Ghana Cards with the SIM cards, while 8.65 million subscribers, representing 20.40 per cent, had not linked their Ghana cards to their SIM cards. The NCA, therefore, extended the deadline to rope in all subscribers. Source: Graphiconline Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) The House of Representatives on Wednesday suspended Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. for another 60 days and forfeited all his committee memberships following his continued refusal to physically return to work. A total of 285 lawmakers voted in favor of the House ethics committee's unanimous recommendation against Teves, who has been tagged as one of the masterminds in the March 4 murder of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo. Teves has also been implicated in a number of killings in the province in 2019. The panel cited Teves' continued unauthorized absences, failure to perform his duties as a House member, and violations of the lower chamber's Code of Conduct. It also took note of his unsuccessful bid to seek political asylum in Timor-Leste. "His actions and all its consequences have compromised the integrity of the House of Representatives and constitute disorderly behavior warranting disciplinary action, the committee said in its report. Teves' application for political asylum was denied by Timor-Leste's government. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has said the lawmaker's asylum bid was baseless. The latest move means all of Teves' rights and privileges as a congressional representative are likewise suspended for 60 days. The House first slapped Teves with a 60-day suspension last March 22, noting his "defiance" to return to the Philippines despite an expired travel authority. That first period of suspension ended last week. Speaker Martin Romualdez previously warned that the House may impose another disciplinary action against Teves if his unprecedented absence from work continues. But the congressman insisted there are serious threats to his life and that he will not go home until he sees a "semblance of fairness" in the investigation. "I don't have to be there for my voice and my side to be heard," he said, insisting the House ethics panel should allow him to virtually join the hearing. Teves, who has repeatedly denied the accusations against him, left the country on Feb. 28 for medical treatment in the United States. His current whereabouts are unknown, but the Department Justice believes he's still in Timor-Leste. Earlier in the day, his camp said they may raise their concerns to the Supreme Court should the House impose stiffer penalties against him. The Chairman of Ghana's Hajj Board, Ben Abdallah Bandah has paid a courtesy call on the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, to brief him on preparations made for the upcoming pilgrimage to Mecca by Ghanaian Muslims. During the visit Tuesday morning, the Head of Ghana's Hajj operations gave the National Chief Imam updates on arrangements made for transportation, accommodation and other key areas of Hajj operations. The Hajj Board Chairman also updated Sheikh Sharubutu on travel arrangements to airlift Ghanaian pilgrims, beginning June 9. The National Chief Imam expressed gratitude to Ben Abdallah Banda for the visit and prayed for a successful Hajj pilgrimage this year. Meanwhile, an advanced team of the Hajj Board has left Accra today for Saudi Arabia ahead of the commencement of airlifted Ghanaian pilgrims. The team is to finalize arrangements and ensure all is well not only for the arrival of the pilgrims but a successful Hajj operations. Ben Abdallah Banda, who was recently appointed Chairman of the Hajj Board, led a delegation to Saudi Arabia to inspect facilities and other arrangements made, prior to his appointment, for the Hajj operations. Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video View this post on Instagram A post shared by OKAY 101.7 FM (@okay101.7fm) AngloGold Ashanti has confirmed that 79 illegal miners who were trapped in the companys mine shaft have successfully exited. The individuals, who had entered the underground area without authorization, walked out of the mine through the main exit point of their own accord and are in the custody of the Ghana Police Service. No injuries were reported, AngloGold announced in a statement. On Tuesday, a team of armed military and police personnel was deployed to restore calm following the arrest of the illegal miners who exited the mine shaft. The youth besieged the Obuasi police station to demand the release of their colleagues who were trapped in the shaft mine and later arrested. AngloGold in a statement expressed appreciation to the Police and Military team for maintaining order and calm and assured that the security of their employees and community members remains their top priority. Following our previous statement issued on 30 May 2023, an additional 79 unauthorized individuals safely exited the Obuasi Gold mine underground yesterday. The individuals, who had entered the underground area without authorization, walked out of the mine through the main exit point of their own accord and are in the custody of the Ghana Police Service. No injuries were reported. We are grateful for the collaborative efforts of our security personnel, and the police in ensuring the safe and orderly exit of these individuals. It is important to reiterate that the main exit ramp from the mine, which is remote from the currently active working areas of the mine, remains open allowing any unauthorized persons underground to exit at any time. Those who may still be underground are strongly encouraged to utilize the designated exit points, where public security personnel remain on standby. The safety and security of our employees and community members remain our top priority and AngloGold Ashanti Ghana stands ready to provide any assistance required by the authorities in ensuring the safe exit of any unauthorized persons underground. Source: UTV/citinewsroom.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Minister for Public Enterprises, Hon. Joseph Cudjoe, has indicated that the increasing rate of cyberattacks on countries and critical infrastructure across the globe makes the mandate of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) the most vital institution of the State, given the current direction to digitalise all sectors of the economy. According to him, the CSA is clothed with the mandatory powers to support and safeguard the country from the risks that are associated with all digitalised economies. The Minister said this on Friday, May 19, 2023, when he paid a working visit to the Management and Staff of CSA to interact with and learn firsthand, the operations of the Authority as part of his scheduled visits to 175 state-owned enterprises in the country. The Minister was accompanied by the Policy Advisor of the Ministry, Mr Sam Aning; Assistant Directors, Mr Richard Bosompem Ababio and Nanna Akua Sarpoma Nimako Boateng, and other members of Staff from the Ministry of Public Enterprises. Commenting on the ongoing regulatory exercise of the CSA, the Minister pledged to work through the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) to ensure that after the September 30, 2023, only licensed and accredited Cybersecurity Service Providers and Professionals will be allowed to provide cybersecurity services for Public Sector institutions in the country. He noted that the country has a collective responsibility to ensure that Critical Information Infrastructures are protected from cyberattacks. Hon. Cudjoe expressed his excitement about the level of collaboration the country was enjoying through the Memoranda of Understanding signed by the CSA with other African countries such as Rwanda and Mozambique. That, he said, placed the country on the continental radar, affirming that the move, was within the context of the larger African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) objective of promoting the development of the cybersecurity industry by bringing the countries on the African countries on a common platform. As part of strategic planning efforts, the Minister charged all Government institutions as well as private sector institutions that performed critical roles for the state to develop cybersecurity policies, based on the Directive for the Protection of Critical Information Infrastructure Directive launched by the government in 2021, in conformity with Section 35 of the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038). Recognising the CSAs role as a revenue-protecting agency as opposed to a revenue-generating agency, Hon. Joseph Cudjoe pledged the governments commitment to ensure that the Authority is well-resourced to protect the interests of the state, given the critical nature of its mandate. He stressed that enhancing systems and building capacity of CSA staff must be a continuous process as the modus operandi of cybercriminals was constantly evolving. Commending the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful for her visionary leadership which has manifested in the giant leaps taken by the Authority, Hon. Cudjoe emphasised the importance of operationalising the cybersecurity fund, as per Section 29 of the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), to surmount any form of impediments to achieving the Authoritys mandate. The Director-General of the CSA, Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, applauded the Minister for his in-depth knowledge and understanding of cybersecurity matters, stressing, that the mandate of the Authority as established by the Cyber Security Act 2020 is to be a revenue-protecting institution. According to Dr. Antwi-Boasiako, the success of the Authority should be measured by the numerous interventions made to foil potential attacks on state institutions and its people. He added that the Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Points of Contact (POC) which was launched in 2018, had become a major means of preventing many Ghanaians and businesses from becoming victims of cybercrime. According to Dr. Antwi-Boasiako, any attempt to compare the achievements of CSA in monetary terms will be a deviation from its mandate. He added that as a specialised and evolving industry, the State stood to gain if it was able to motivate and retain committed and dedicated staff of the CSA. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Seasoned journalist, Kwesi Pratt has defused notions about the character and personality of Ex-President John Dramani Mahama. Mr. Pratt waded into discussions on the banter between the former President and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Intercity State Transport Corporation (STC), Nana Akomea, where the latter admonishes Mr. Mahama to stop receiving ex-gratia as a matter of principle. Nana Akomea, speaking on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo" weeks ago, charged Mr. Mahama to demonstrate by example his claim to abolish ex-gratia if re-elected President of Ghana. "So, you, President Mahama, today if you claim you don't believe in the ex-gratia, the ones that you have taken, we know that you have spent it already, so we can't say that go and bring it . . .but the challenge I am giving to him is that the ones he will be taking from this month May, he shouldnt take it, he should stop taking the ex-gratia, the same way Togbe Afede stopped and returned his own, he should follow the same principle," he told host Nana Yaw Kesseh. In reply, Mr. John Mahama explained that he receives a monthly pension and not ex-gratia as Nana Akomea claimed. "My friend Nana Akomea. Really sad what politics can do to a fine mind! I don't take ex-gratia. I receive a monthly pension," John Mahama tweeted but Nana Akomea finds this response insulting to him. "I only asked him to show leadership by reviewing his own entitlements in the light of the burden these present to the taxpayer and his plan to scrap the Ex-Gratia", Nana Akomea responded, adding "Even if President Mahama disagrees with me, I am sad that he chose to lace his disagreement with insults to my person, by implying politics had caused me to lose my fine mind. However, in a tweet on Monday afteroon, Mr. Mahama further replied Nana Akomea saying "my friend Nana Akomea. I did not insult you. I know you know the difference between a lump sum ex-gratia payment and a monthly pension. Why you chose to misinform the public was because of politics". Tackling the back and forth conflict between the two leaders, Kwesi Pratt opined that Mr. Mahama's comments may have been misconstrued as, to him, the former President is one of the humblest people. "If we will be truthful to ourselves, nobody can say President Mahama is arrogant. Those of us who know him or are his friends know for a fact that he is not prideful. He is not arrogant", he told Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FM's show "Kokrokoo" Tuesday morning, May 30, 2023. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Professor Kofi Agyekum has appealed to former President John Dramani Mahama and the Chief Executive Officer of the Intercity State Transport Corporation (STC), Nana Akomea, to call a truce between them. Nana Akomea, speaking on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo" weeks ago, charged Mr. Mahama to demonstrate by example his claim to abolish ex-gratia if re-elected President of Ghana. "So, you, President Mahama, today if you claim you don't believe in the ex-gratia, the ones that you have taken, we know that you have spent it already, so we can't say that go and bring it . . .but the challenge I am giving to him is that the ones he will be taking from this month May, he shouldnt take it, he should stop taking the ex-gratia, the same way Togbe Afede stopped and returned his own, he should follow the same principle," he told host Nana Yaw Kesseh. In reply, Mr. John Mahama explained that he receives a monthly pension and not ex-gratia as Nana Akomea claimed. "My friend Nana Akomea. Really sad what politics can do to a fine mind! I don't take ex-gratia. I receive a monthly pension," John Mahama tweeted but Nana Akomea found this response insulting to him. "I only asked him to show leadership by reviewing his own entitlements in the light of the burden these present to the taxpayer and his plan to scrap the Ex-Gratia", Nana Akomea responded, adding "even if President Mahama disagrees with me, I am sad that he chose to lace his disagreement with insults to my person, by implying politics had caused me to lose my fine mind. Commenting on the issue, Professor Kofi Agyekum, Head of Linguistics at the University of Ghana, advised Nana Akomea not respond to Mr. Mahama and pleaded with them to cease fire. "I will plead with Nana Akomea to forgive and regard it as nothing has happened. I also ask former President to heed the advice that you (Nana Akomea) have given him...We plead with them to cease fire", Opanyin Agyekum said on "Kokrokoo" on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video "Is this how you want to be President? With insults?" Nana Akomea fires Mahama again over ex-gratia Akomea's 1st Salvo It may be recalled that the Managing Director of the State Transport Corporation (STC) dared former President John Mahama to reject his May ex-gratia payment. Speaking on Peace FMs Kokrokoo on May 21, 2023, said: Let me give him one challenge, just one challenge; Togbe Afede said that for him, he doesnt believe in ex-gratia as a Council of State member, so what did he do? The ex-gratia that they gave him, he returned them to the governmentafter returning the money to the government, President Mahama praised him for doing that, saying he is a man of principleso it means that Togbe Afede has principles by returning the ex-gratia. So, you, President Mahama, today if you claim you dont believe in the ex-gratia, the ones that you have taken, we know that you have spent it already, so we cant say that go and bring itbut the challenge I am giving to him is that the ones that he will be taking from this month May, he shouldnt take it, he should stop taking the ex-gratia, the same way Togbe Afede stopped and returned his own, he should follow the same principle, he added Mahama replies In response, Mahama clarified on Twitter that he does not get ex-gratia but instead receives a monthly pension. He tweeted: My friend Nana Akomea. Really sad what politics can do to a fine mind! I dont take ex-gratia. I receive a monthly pension. Nana Akomea throws one again However, the STC boss disagreed with the former President insisting he still have a "fine mind". The last time other citizens commented on this same sentiments of former President Mahama, he met them with similar insults, calling them Silly. I urge ex-President Mahama, that if he wants to be President of Ghana again, he should refrain from insulting citizens. I assure him I am still his friend and I still have a fine mind" Mahama hits back Former President Mahama in a tweet on Monday, 29th May, 2023 fired back saying he didn't insult Nana Akomea. My friend Nana Akomea. I did not insult you. I know you know the difference between a lump sum ex-gratia payment and a monthly pension. Why you chose to misinform the public was because of politics, he tweeted. Akomea's final blow Nana Akomea, however insists, Mahama's comment is an insult. "What pained me is that if (Former) President Mahama disagrees with me, I dont have a problem but to say that politics has destroyed my mind is an insult; a big insult". "I know he claims he didn't insult me but that's how I see it; to say politics have destroyed my mind is a big insult. There's a pattern; clearly there's a pattern that if you disagree with him (Mahama) he'll insult you. If this is how you want to be President, it won't help you..." he reiterated. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The New Patriotic Party (NPP), at its Steering Committee (SC) meeting held on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, approved the timelines for holding parliamentary primary election at Assin North for the by-election. The approved timelines are as follows: Opening of Nomination - Wednesday May 31, 2023 Closing of Nomination - Thursday June 1, 2023 Election - Wednesday June 7, 2023 The Party has also approved detailed Rules and Regulations to govern the conduct of the parliamentary primary election which would be made available to stakeholders. However, Nomination Forms will be available at the Constituency Party Office for purchase. Assin North seat declared vacant Parliament of Ghana has officially declared the Assin North seat as vacant. This was communicated by the Clerk of Parliament in conformity with the ruling by the Supreme Court on the eligibility of James Quayson as Member of Parliament for the area. The Clerk in a memo to the Electoral Commission stated: In the exercise of the power conferred and the duty imposed on the Clerk to Parliament by section 3 of the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Amendment) Act, 1996 (Act 527), I, CYRIL KWABENA OTENG NSIAH, Clerk to Parliament do hereby formally notify you of the occurrence of a vacancy in the Assin North Constituency necessitated by the Judgement of the Supreme Court dated 17 May 2023 vide Writ No. J1/11/2022 issued in respect of James Gyakye Quayson in the case of Michael Ankomah Nimfah vrs James Gyakye Quayson. The Electoral Commission of Ghana and the Attorney-General request you to take appropriate consequential action as required by law. The Supreme Court by a unanimous decision ordered Ghanas Parliament to expunge the name of James Gyakye Quayson from its records as the Member of Parliament for the Assin North constituency on May 17. The Court on, Wednesday, 17 May 2023, declared as unconstitutional the election of Mr Gyakye Quayson as MP for Assin North saying he held dual citizenship as at the time he filed to contest the 2020 elections Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Former Central Regional Minister, Kwamena Duncan has cast doubts over the professorship of Michael Kpessa-Whyte after he attacked the image of the Supreme Court. Prof. Michael Kpessa-Whyte was arraigned before the court following a series of tweets by him on May 19 when the Supreme Court ordered Parliament to expunge the name of Mr. Gyakye Quayson from its records as a Member of Parliament because he was wrongfully elected. "The highest Court of the Land has been turned into Stupid Court", Kpessa-Whyte tweeted He continued; They have succeeded in turning a Supreme Court into a Stupid Court. Common sense is now a scarce commodity. He was ordered to appear before the Apex Court to show cause why he should not be cited for scandalizing the Supreme Court but Prof. Kpessa-Whyte pleaded "guilty with explanation" to the charge. His legal team led by Dr. Justice Srem Sai also pleaded for mercy saying "we pray for the mitigation of sentence. My lord, immediately the matter was brought to his attention, he did issue a clear, unreserved apology which we have accordingly brought to the courts registry, addressed to the acting Chief Justice". It is our humble prayer, in all humility, we plead for mercy. We are also undertaking that such a sad and regrettable occurrence will not ever again. We commit to defending the integrity of this honourable Court, Dr. Sai added. The Court, on Tuesday, May 30, cautioned and discharged him. Addressing the issue on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show, Kwamena Duncan challenged Prof. Kpessa-Whyte's position as a Professor as, to him, a Professor will not make such statements. He likened the Professor to a child or an imbecile saying "it doesn't take any serious mental effort to irritate someone. It's even easy for an imbecile to irritate", so, in his view, Professor Kpessa-Whyte behaved like one when he labeled the Supreme Court as "stupid". He cautioned people not to denigrate the judiciary stressing "this country will collapse without law and order". Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Cecil Duddley Mends, the highly esteemed fashion designer and founder of CDM Fashion Couture, has achieved remarkable success by clinching two prestigious awards at the 2nd National Brands Innovation Awards. The momentous occasion took place on May 26, 2023 at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, Ghana. The event was themed "Redefining Branding: The Heart of Caring". Under Cecil's visionary leadership, CDM Fashion Couture received the coveted "Innovative Fashion Brand of the Year" award which recognizes the company's exceptional contributions to the fashion industry. Renowned for its extraordinary designs and exquisite garments, CDM Fashion Couture has become synonymous with innovation and style. In addition to the company's well-deserved recognition, Cecil himself was honored with the esteemed title of "Fashion Brand Business Leader of the Year". This prestigious accolade acknowledges Cecil's exceptional leadership skills and his ability to propel CDM Fashion Couture to unparalleled heights of success. Cecil's creative talent and unwavering dedication were first acknowledged in 2017 when he was bestowed with the highly acclaimed "Fashion Designer of the Year" award at the Ghana Peace Awards. Since then, he has continuously pushed the boundaries of fashion, redefining industry standards and leaving an indelible mark. Not only have Cecil's designs gained popularity within political circles but they have also found their way into the wardrobes of influential figures in academia and business. The fact that prominent personalities choose to wear Cecil's creations is a testament to the impeccable quality, exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance embodied by his designs. Remarkably, Cecil has gone above and beyond his role as a designer by selflessly devoting his time and effort to training aspiring designers free of charge. His commitment to nurturing talent and his passion for creating exceptional garments have earned him widespread recognition, both locally and internationally. With these recent accolades, Cecil Duddley Mends solidifies his esteemed position in the fashion world. As he continues to dress influential figures worldwide in his extraordinary creations, he sets new benchmarks and inspires a new generation of designers to strive for excellence in their craft. Cecil's remarkable journey serves as a shining example of what can be achieved through unwavering dedication, unparalleled talent and an unwavering commitment to one's craft. Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Torah says very little about how exactly Jewish people are supposed to observe Shabbat, but the great rabbis of the Talmudic period (roughly 70 to 500 C.E.) had plenty to say. In a thick chapter of the Talmud called "Shabbat," the ancient sages trade opinions on the subtlest minutiae of Jewish law, resulting, for example, in the 39 types of work that are forbidden on Shabbat. No cooking, no washing, no sewing, no planting, no reaping, no burning, no extinguishing, no carrying ... it's a long list. For the most strictly observant Jews, known as Orthodox, the faithful keeping of Shabbat means not violating any of these rules. In practice, that often requires some creativity, or at least a lot of planning ahead. Advertisement For example, you can't tear paper on the Sabbath, which includes toilet paper. So Orthodox bathrooms are stocked with pre-torn sheets of toilet paper for Shabbat. You can't turn on a light on Shabbat because electricity is akin to a "spark," which is the same as fire. You know that little lightbulb inside your refrigerator that turns on when you open the door? You either need to remove that during Shabbat or buy a Shabbat-approved refrigerator that is programmed to turn off the light one day a week. Rabbi Isaacs says that he recently bought a Shabbat-approved toothbrush out of curiosity. Technically, you wring out the wet bristles when you brush your teeth and wringing falls under the same prohibited category as washing. The Shabbat toothbrush is made with rubber bristles that don't hold water and therefore can't be "wrung" out. In some Orthodox communities, a non-Jewish person called the "Shabbat goy" (Yiddish for "Shabbat gentile") is contracted to visit Jewish homes on the Sabbath to carry out prohibited tasks like turning on the stove or the lights. The one exemption for all of the Shabbat laws is to save a life, says Rabbi Isaacs. Jews aren't supposed to drive or work on the Sabbath, but if a doctor needs to rush to the hospital to attend to a patient, she can both drive and work without fear of divine retribution. It's easy to get caught up in the rules and restrictions of Shabbat and forget why those things were forbidden in the first place, says Rabbi Isaacs. "Shabbat should be a 'holy' day, which in Judaism literally means a day that is distinct and unique. We are commanded to work the other six days of the week, so what we do on the seventh day should be completely different." In other words, all of those prohibitions are highly specific and complicated ways of saying, "please don't work." Do something special on the Sabbath. Spend more time with your family, go to the synagogue and say prayers, eat home-cooked meals and unplug from electronics. It's a day of physical rest, but also emotional and spiritual rejuvenation. " " Myriam Gumerman, center, enjoys the company of her friends as they gather to celebrate the Shabbat at her home on in Pittsburgh's Squirrel Hill neighborhood. Justin Merriman/For The Washington Post via Getty Images Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri hailed the passage of the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) bill as a "triumph of the Senate," while touting its sufficient safeguards. "[B]ecause we improved the House version tremendously, we thank the House for accepting the Senate version with all the safeguards. Pwede po natin ipaglaban ito sa Plaza Miranda [We can fight for it in Plaza Miranda]," Zubiri told the media on Wednesday, referring to the place in Manila known for democratic activities. After seven days of plenary discussions, senators swiftly approved its version of the controversial bill early Wednesday morning. The House of Representatives adopted the Senate version hours later. It will now be sent to Malacanang for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s signature. The president has repeatedly endorsed the bill and had certified it as urgent. READ: Maharlika bill now up for Marcos' signature The final version of the measure prohibits the use of government pension money from Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), Social Security System (SSS), the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) to bankroll the sovereign wealth account. Wala na kayong kakabahan pa. Kasi ang haka-haka, baka i-pasok daw yung GSIS, SSS, wala na po yan. It is explicitly said twice in the bill, and there is an explicit ban on the use of these funds for Maharlika, Zubiri said. [Translation: You don't have to worry anymore. Because the speculation is, maybe the GSIS, SSS will be included. That's gone.] READ: Senate bars investment of state pension funds in Maharlika, okays key changes in bill's final version The previous plan to get initial investments from state pension funds was abandoned after earning the ire of several groups who argued that doing so may put Filipinos' pension at risk. READ: Marcos: State pension funds not to be used as seed capital for Maharlika The latest version of the MIF bill also cut down the number of directors of the Maharlika Investment Corporation board from 15 to 9, and its members cannot include those with pending cases relating to fraud, corruption, tax evasion, and other similar charges. The penalties for misuse of the Maharlika fund are also more stringent with imprisonment of up to 20 years and a fine of up to 10 million. 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: Visualization of safe ESBs (dark red), just (NSH) ESBs (blue), cases where safe axnd just (NSH) boundaries align (green), and current global states (Earth icons). Radial axes are normalized to safe ESBs. Headline or central estimate global boundaries (Table 1) are plotted, to support comparison with current global state, but we emphasize that we have also defined sub-global boundaries and multiple likelihood levels for many domains (Table 1). For aerosols, however, we display the sub-global boundaries to compare safe and just boundaries. For nitrogen, we plot with a dashed blue line the boundary quantification for harm from nitrate in groundwater, while noting that the just boundary must also incorporate safe considerations via eutrophication leading to a more stringent safe and just boundary. Minimum access to water, food, energy and infrastructure for all humans (dotted green line) could constitute the foundation of a safe and just corridor (green filled area), but we do not quantify this foundation here. Credit: FutureEarth / Earth Commission / Lade et al., 2023 Curbing global heating at 1.5 degrees Celsius will avert runaway climate change but not mass suffering in developing nations, a consortium of 50 researchers warned Wednesday. Some 200 million people in poorer regions will be exposed to unlivable heat, and half a billion will face the destructive ravages of rising seas even if the world meets the more optimistic Paris target of a 1.5C cap, they reported in a major study. If exposing large swathes of humanity to "significant harm is to be avoided, the just boundary should be set at or below 1C," the scientists said. The Earth's average surface temperature has already risen 1.2C. These are sobering conclusions because greenhouse gas emissions remain at record levels, and current policies are on track to see 2.7C of warming by century's end. We are "putting the stability and resilience of the entire planet at risk," said Johan Rockstrom, lead author of the new study. The scientists say atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide must also be cut by a sixth, with the world's richest one percent emitting twice as much as the poorest 50 percent, the study noted. Rockstrom is among the originators of the concept of "planetary boundaries"red lines that must not be crossed. In 2009 he and colleagues identified nine such boundaries and said we had already stepped outside the safe zone of three: planet-warming gases in the air, accelerating species extinction, and an excess of nitrogen and phosphorus in the environment (mostly from fertilizer). Today we have breached three more: deforestation, overuse of fresh water, and the omnipresence of synthetic chemicals, including plastics. Scientists have outlines nine planetary boundaries in the Earty system. 'Scientific backbone' Outdoor particle pollution, which shortens more than four million lives every year, could be added this year to the list of our transgressions, and ocean acidification may not be far behind. "The Earth system is in dangermany tipping elements are about to cross their tipping points," said co-author Dahe Qin, director of the Chinese Academy of Science's influential Academic Committee. The Greenland ice sheet, large swathes of permafrost and the Amazon forest, for example, are approaching points of no return beyond which they will, respectively, lift oceans by meters, release billions of tons of CO 2 and methane and turn tropical forests to savannah. Only the restoration of the life-protecting ozone layerthe ninth boundaryis clearly moving in the right direction. Rockstrom, head of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, and colleagues applied the same yardsticks to measure the limits for a "just" world in which human exposure to harm is minimized. Besides climate change, they found the tolerable threshold of ambient particle pollutionespecially across Asiamust also be lowered compared to the original planetary boundaries schema. "Justice is a necessity for humanity to live within planetary limits," said co-author Joyeeta Gupta, a professor at the University of Amsterdam. "We cannot have a safe planet without justice." The scientists have proposed the new thresholds as the "scientific backbone" of evolving sustainability standards for government and business. The study, published in Nature, was supported by the Global Commons Alliance, a coalition of more than 70 research and policy centers, including the World Economic Forum, The Nature Conservancy and Future Earth. "Nothing less than a just global transformation across all Earth system boundaries is required to ensure human well-being," the authors concluded. "Such transformations must be systemic across energy, food, urban and other sectors, addressing the economic, technological, political and other drivers of Earth system change, and ensure access for the poor through reductions and reallocation of resource use." More information: Steven Lade, Safe and just Earth system boundaries, Nature (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06083-8. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06083-8 How to identify unjust planetary change, Nature (2023). DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-01743-1 Journal information: Nature 2023 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: AKADEMIYA2063 An artificial intelligence (AI) tool is using satellite remote sensing and machine learning to predict agricultural yields of key crops across Africa, to help mitigate the harms of climate change and other crises, its developers say. Pan-African research organization AKADEMIYA2063 says the Africa Agriculture Watch (AAgWa) tool will aid the production of staple foods including, maize, cassava and sorghum, across 47 African countries. The web-based platform, launched on 27 April, was designed to help tackle some of the impacts of climate change, conflicts and pests on food production. Racine Ly, director for data management, digital products, and technology at AKADEMIYA2063, says Africa's agricultural sector faces multiple threats, including supply chain disruptions, as a result of extreme climate events and health crises. "Relying on conventional analytic techniques alone will not deliver the effective decision-making we need to meet these challenges," he told SciDev.Net. The developers say AAgWa will give policy-makers timely access to high-quality, predictive analytics, which are often lacking on the continent. The crops were selected largely because of their contribution to food security in Africa, as well as high trade value, says Ly. "Our rural communities will, for example, consume more millet, sorghum, and yam," he explained. "Those are not really used in international trade, but they are very critical in our livelihoods, so we rather focus on those because if they suffer from destruction or disruption these communities will also suffer in their livelihoods." The tool, developed by an all African expert team, took about two years to develop and involved intensive scientific review and satellite data collection, says Ly. "Since this is data that researchers and decision-makers most importantly will use to make decisions, we needed to make sure that the data is correct and the predictions are accurate," he told SciDev.Net. Informing farmers Enabling often illiterate rural farmers to use the platform is the next hurdle, says Ly. "Initially we intend to work with cooperatives that can aggregate the information and then disseminate it But at the same time, we are trying to see how we can work with extension workers to really pass on the information to the farmers. "It's not yet the case, but it's something that we are working on." Jerry Sam, executive director of Ghana-based technology hub Penplusbyte, tells SciDev.Net that AI and satellite data can provide valuable insights and predictions about crop yields. "By combining multiple data sets, AI models can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the factors such as weather, soil, and historical yield data which influences crop growth and yield potential," Sam said. "AI and satellite data can also support precision agriculture practices by providing site-specific recommendations for optimizing inputs such as irrigation, fertilization, and pest control." "This targeted approach can lead to improved yields and resource efficiency." Sam believes AI and satellite data can be used to revolutionize farming in Africa. "The adoption of AI technologies, particularly in the area of subsistence farming, will not only increase crop yield but also benefit rural folks and provide food security for the nation," he said. Provided by SciDev.Net 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: Drawing of Awunbarna 1 (left) and Awunbarna 2 (right). (Drawings by Darrell Lewis, 1998). Credit: Flinders University Archaeologists at Flinders University have identified rare images of Moluccan vessels from Indonesia's eastern islands in rock art paintings that may provide the first archaeological evidence of visitors from Southeast Asia from somewhere other than Makassar on Sulawesi. The rock art offers new evidence of elusive and previously unrecorded encounters between Indigenous people from Awunbarna, Arnhem Land and visitors from the Moluccas to the north of Australia, according to the research. Two watercrafts depicted in the rock art feature motifs that appear on the Moluccan types of Southeast Asian vessels that are unlike the Macassan prahus and Western boats shown at other contact sites in northern Australia and offer enough details to help confirm their identity. As well as their distinctive shape and configuration, both boats appear to display triangular flags, pennants, and prow adornments indicating their martial status. Comparing these two depictions with historically recorded watercraft from Island Southeast Asia shows that they probably came from eastern Maluku Tenggara in Indonesia. The rock art depictions of Moluccan vessels in Awunbarna may instead mean that Aboriginal people who traveled north encountered vessels like these and then painted the rock art upon their return home. Credit: Flinders University. Credit: Flinders University In their findings published in the journal History Archaeology, the researchers say the nature of the illustrations implies a degree of intimate knowledge of the craft through long or close observation or from actually voyaging in them. The Moluccan 'fighting craft' identified in the paintings are likely linked to trade, fishing, resource exploitation, head hunting or slavery, and the presence of such vessels implies instances of physical violence or at least a projection of power. The researchers say any explanation for the encounters that occurred between the Aboriginal rock art artists in Amburbarna and these Moluccan watercrafts isn't yet clear, and more research using other sources of evidence or different approaches may complete the picture. First author and maritime archaeologist at Flinders University, Dr. Mick de Ruyter, says this as yet unique identification of Moluccan watercraft offers evidence of obscure encounters between the Aboriginal people of northern Australia and people from island Southeast Asia, although mystery still surrounds the exact nature of these meetings. "These motifs support existing ideas that sporadic or accidental voyages from Indonesia to the Australian coastline took place before or alongside regular trepang fishing visits." Arnhem Land and Maluku Tenggara. (Map by Mick de Ruyter, 2022). Credit: Flinders University Flinders University maritime archaeologist and co-author, Associate Professor Wendy van Duivenvoorde, says that Dutch explorers in the Moluccas reported as early as the mid-seventeenth century that inhabitants from the islands regularly sailed to the north coast of Australia. "Dutch traders established agreements with the elders in Maluku Tenggara for products like turtle shell and trepang that may have been sourced during voyages to Australia. Islanders in Maluku Tenggara also had a reputation as raiders and warriors, ranging across the eastern end of the archipelago." "Regardless of the motivation that prompted the painting of these vessels, the presence of these fighting ships provides direct evidence of the ethnic diversity of the mariners from Island Southeast Asia known to Arnhem Land artists and further demonstrates the issues associated with the use of the generic term "Macassan' for depictions of non-European vessels." "The presence of Moluccan fighting vessels in Arnhem Land would support a significant departure from the accepted narrative of Macassan coastal fishing and trading and has important implications for understandings of cultural contact with southeast Asia." Credit: Flinders University Credit: Flinders University Co-author and archaeologist, Dr. Daryl Wesley, says this unique combination of shape, proportion, configuration in the rock art drawings is absent from historical sources on Aboriginal watercraft. "The drawings we have identified don't appear to represent any known European or colonial watercraft types. Similar 'canoes' are represented in rock art elsewhere on Australia's northern shore, but none appear with similar details to those at Awunbarna. The nearest candidate is the most elaborate Indigenous Australian vernacular watercraft, the canoes of the Torres Strait Islands." "This identification of Moluccan fighting craft has significant implications for the reasons mariners from these islands may have been on the northern Australian coastline, and subsequently for the intercultural encounters on the Arnhem Land coast." More information: Mick de Ruyter et al, Moluccan Fighting Craft on Australian Shores: Contact Rock Art from Awunbarna, Arnhem Land, Historical Archaeology (2023). DOI: 10.1007/s41636-023-00390-7 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 When John Mestas' ancestors moved to Colorado over 100 years ago to raise sheep in the San Luis Valley, they "hit paradise," he said. "There was so much water, they thought it would never end," Mestas said of the agricultural region at the headwaters of the Rio Grande. Now decades of climate change-driven drought, combined with the overpumping of aquifers, is making the valley desperately dryand appears to be intensifying the levels of heavy metals in drinking water. Like a third of people who live in this high alpine desert, Mestas relies on a private well that draws from an aquifer for drinking water. And, like many farmers there, he taps an aquifer to water the alfalfa that feeds his 550 cows. "Water is everything here," he said. Mestas, 71, is now one of the hundreds of well owners participating in a study that tackles the question: How does drought affect not just the quantity, but the quality, of water? The study, led by Kathy James, an associate professor at the Colorado School of Public Health, focuses on arsenic in private drinking wells. Arsenic, a carcinogen that occurs naturally in soil, has been appearing in rising levels in drinking water in the valley, she said. In California, Mexico, and Vietnam, research has linked rising arsenic levels in groundwater to drought and the overpumping of aquifers. As the West grapples with a megadrought that has lasted more than two decades, and states risk cutbacks in water from the shrinking Colorado River, the San Luis Valley offers clues to what the future may hold. Nationwide, about 40 million people rely on domestic wells, estimated Melissa Lombard, a research hydrologist for the U.S. Geological Survey. Nevada, Arizona, and Maine have the highest percentage of domestic well usersranging from about a quarter to a fifth of well usersusing water with elevated arsenic levels, she found in a separate study. During drought, the number of people in the contiguous U.S. exposed to elevated arsenic from domestic wells may rise from about 2.7 million to 4.1 million, Lombard estimated, using statistical models. Arsenic has been shown to affect health across the human life span, beginning with sperm and eggs, James said. Even a small exposure, added up over the course of a person's life, is enough to cause health problems, she said. In a previous study in the valley, James found that lifetime exposure to low levels of inorganic arsenic in drinking water, between 10 and 100 micrograms per liter, or g/L, was linked to a higher risk of coronary heart disease. Other research has tied chronic exposure to low-level arsenic to hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. Pregnant women and children are at greater risk for harm. The World Health Organization sets the recommended limit on arsenic in drinking water at 10 g/L, which is also the U.S. standard for public water supplies. But research has shown that, even at 5 g/L, arsenic is linked to higher rates of skin lesions. "I think it's a problem that a lot of people are not aware of," Lombard said. "Climate change is probably going to impact water quality," she said, but more research is needed to understand how and why. A hotbed of hope The San Luis Valley, which has hosted a wealth of research and innovation, is the ideal place to explore those questionsand potential solutions. Known for its stunning mountain views and the nearby Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, the valley spans a region roughly the size of Massachusetts, making it North America's largest alpine valley. Rich in Indigenous, Mexican, and Spanish heritage, the valley contains 500,000 acres of irrigated land producing potatoes, alfalfa for hay, and beer barley for Coors. It's home to nearly 50,000 people, many of them farmworkers and about half of them Hispanic. It's also a challenging place to live: Counties here rank among the poorest in the state, and rates of diabetes, kidney disease, and depression run high. Since it rains very little, about 7 inches a year on average, farmers rely on two large aquifers and the headwaters of the Rio Grande, which continues on to Mexico. Snowmelt from the looming Sangre de Cristo and San Juan mountain ranges recharges the supply each spring. But as the climate warms, there's less snow, and water evaporates more quickly than usual from the ground and crops. "This entire community, this culture, was built around irrigated agriculture," said state Sen. Cleave Simpson of Alamosa, a Republican and a fourth-generation farmer. But since 2002, the valley's unconfined aquifer has lost 1 million acre-feet of wateror enough to cover 1 million acres of land in water 1 foot deepdue to persistent drought and overuse. Now the communities in the valley face a deadline to replenish the aquifer, or face a state shutdown of hundreds of irrigation wells. "We're a decade ahead of what's happening in the rest of Colorado" because of the intensity of water scarcity, said Simpson, who manages the Rio Grande Water Conservation District. "This is not drought anymorethis is truly the aridification of the West," Simpson said. That's how scientists are describing a long-term trend toward persistent dryness that can be stopped only by addressing human-caused climate change. James, who is an epidemiologist and engineer, has been studying links between climate and health in the valley for the past 15 years. She found that during dust storms in the San Luis Valley, which have been growing more frequent, more people visit the hospital for asthma attacks. And she has surveyed farmworkers on how drought is affecting their mental health. In the domestic well study, James is focusing on arsenic, which she said has been gradually increasing in valley drinking wells over the past 50 years. Arsenic levels in San Luis Valley groundwater are "markedly higher than [in] many other areas of the U.S.," according to James. She is also investigating ethnic disparities, as one study there showed Hispanic adults had higher levels of arsenic in their urine than non-Hispanic white adults did. (Hispanic people can be of any race or combination of races.) James now aims to test 1,000 private wells in the valley to explore the connections between drought, water quality, and health. So far, she said, a small proportion of wells show elevated levels of heavy metals, including arsenic, uranium, tungsten, and manganese, which occur naturally in the soil. Unlike public water supplies, private domestic wells are not regulated, and they may go untested for years. James is offering participants free water testing and consultation on the results. In Conejos County, John Mestas' daughter, Angie Mestas, jumped at the chance for a free test, which would cost $195 at a local lab. Angie, a 35-year-old schoolteacher, said she used a lifetime of savings to drill a drinking well on her plot of land, a wide-open field of chamisa with sweeping views of the San Luis Hills. But she won't drink from it until she tests for arsenic and E. coli, which are common in the area. As she awaits test results, she has been hauling 5-gallon jugs of water from her father's house each time she spends the weekend at her newly constructed yurt. A colorless, odorless threat Meanwhile, Julie Zahringer, whose family settled in the valley from Spain nearly 400 years ago, has been watching water-quality trends firsthand. Zahringer, 47, grew up driving a tractor on her grandfather's ranch near San Luis, Colorado's oldest townand hanging out in the lab with her mother, a scientist. As a chemist and laboratory director of SDC Laboratory in Alamosa, Zahringer tests private and public drinking water in the valley. She estimated that 25% of the private wells tested by her lab show elevated arsenic. "It's colorless, it's odorless," Zahringer said. "Most families don't know if they're drinking arsenic." To Zahringer, the link to climate seems clear: During dry periods, a well that usually hovers around 10 g/L of arsenic may easily double or triple in concentration, she said. One possible reason is that there's less water to dilute the natural contaminants in the soil, though other factors are at play. The arsenic levels used to be fairly stable, she said, but after 20 years of drought, they're fluctuating wildly. "Now, more and more rapidly, I'm seeing the same well that I just tested three years agoit doesn't even look like the same well" because levels of contaminants have risen so much, said Zahringer, who also serves as a member of the Colorado Water Quality Control Commission. At her own drinking well, the arsenic level jumped from 13 to 20 g/L this year, she said. Zahringer's observations are important firsthand anecdotes. James aims to explore, in a rigorous scientific study with a representative sample of wells and extensive geochemical data, the prevalence of arsenic and its connection to drought. Research is still in the early stages, but scientists have several hypotheses for how drought could affect arsenic in drinking water. In the San Joaquin Valley, a major agricultural hub in California, research led by hydrologist Ryan Smith linked rising arsenic in groundwater to "land subsidence," a phenomenon first documented in Vietnam. Land subsidencewhen the ground sinks due to aquifer overpumpingappears to release arsenic from the clay into the water, said Smith, an assistant professor at Colorado State University. In California, the overpumping was strongly correlated to drought, he said. However, other factors, such as how deep a well is, also play a role: Another study of the same California aquifer system found that while arsenic increased in deeper groundwater, it decreased in shallower water due in part to oxidation. Smith is now working with James in the San Luis Valley study, where he hopes a wealth of geochemical data will offer more answers. Meanwhile, community leaders in the valley are adapting in impressive and innovative ways, James said. Zahringer said if arsenic shows up in a private well, she encourages clients to install reverse osmosis water filtration at the kitchen sink. The equipment costs about $300 from an outside supplier, though filters costing less than $50 may need to be changed every six to 18 months, she said. People who treat their water for arsenic should continue to test every six months to make sure the filters are effective, said Zahringer. SDC Laboratory offers an arsenic test for $25. "People don't want to test their water because it tastes good and their grandpa drank it," she said. But "the cure for it is so easy." A water-quality campaign in 2009, led by the San Luis Valley Ecosystem Council, also found elevated arsenic in wells across the valley. As part of its outreach, the nonprofit worked with real estate agents to make sure that domestic wells are tested before someone buys a home. That's what Sally Wier did when she bought a house five years ago on an 8-acre plot in Rio Grande County surrounded by fields of barley and alfalfa. The first time she tested her well, the arsenic level was 47 g/L, nearly five times the EPA's limit. Wier installed a reverse osmosis water filtration system, but she said the arsenic level rises before she changes the filters every few months. "It makes me really anxious," said Wier, 38. "I'm probably ingesting arsenic. That is not good for long-term health." Wier is one of many people working on innovative solutions to the water shortage. As a conservation project manager for Colorado Open Lands, she worked on a deal by which a local farmer, Ron Bowman, was paid to stop irrigating his 1,800-acre farm. The deal marks the first time in the country that a conservation easement has been used to save groundwater for aquifer replenishment, Wier said. Funneling money toward a solution In Costilla County, the Move Mountains Youth Project has been paying local farmers, through a government grant, to convert a portion of their land to grow vegetables instead of water-intensive alfalfa. Farmers then train youth to grow crops like broccoli, spinach, and bolita beans, which are sold at a local grocery store. The project aims to nurture the next generation of farmers, and "beat diabetes" by providing locally grown food, said executive director Shirley Romero Otero. Her group worked with three farmers last summer and plans to work with seven this season, if enough water is available, she said. In another effort, farmers like the Mestas are taxing themselves to draw water from their own irrigation wells. And Simpson, of the Rio Grande Water Conservation District, recently secured $30 million in federal money to support water conservation. The plan includes paying farmers $3,000 per acre-foot of water to permanently retire their irrigation wells. Since arsenic is not limited to private wells, public agencies have responded, too: The city of Alamosa built a new water treatment plant in 2008 to bring its arsenic levels into compliance with federal standards. In 2020, the state of Colorado sued an Alamosa mushroom farm for exposing its workers to arsenic in tap water. At the High Valley Park mobile home community in Alamosa County, a well serving 85 people has exceeded legal arsenic levels since 2006, when the Environmental Protection Agency tightened its standard from 50 to 10 g/L. At the most recent test in February, the concentration was 19 g/L. On an April afternoon, four children bounced on a trampoline and chased one another up a tree. "Uncle, I'm thirsty and there's no bottled water left," said one child, catching her breath. The well serves 28 households. But tenants from five homes said they haven't been drinking the water for years, not because of arsenicwhich some said they were not aware ofbut because the water often comes out brown. Eduardo Rodriguez, 29, who works in excavation, said he buys two cases of bottled water every week for his wife and five children. "It needs to be fixed," he said. "The water sucks," agreed Craig Nelson, 51, who has lived in the mobile home park for two years. "You don't drink it." Because the well serves at least 25 people, it is regulated by the state. Landlord Rob Treat, of Salida, bought the property in February 2022 for nearly half a million dollars. Getting arsenic within federal standards has been difficult, he said, because arsenic levels fluctuate when nearby farmers tap the aquifer to irrigate their crops. Treat was using chlorine to convert one kind of arsenic into a more treatable form. But if he added too much chlorine, he said, that created its own toxic byproducts, which have also drawn regulators' attention. Under pressure from the state, Treat began upgrading the water treatment system in May, at a cost of $150,000. To cover the cost, he said, he aims to raise the monthly rent from $250 to $300 per lot. "If the state would stay out of it," he grumbled, "we could supply affordable housing." Meanwhile, John Mestas is still awaiting results on his drinking well. When he returns from traveling to manage his cattle herd, "the first thing I do whenever I walk in the house is drink me two glasses of this water," Mestas said. "That's the one thing I miss, is my water and my dogs. They're jumping all over me while I'm drinking my water. I don't know who's happier, me drinking the water or them jumping on me." 2023 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. 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: CC0 Public Domain Growing up in a small town in Brazil, my daily life was shaped by the rhythms of my family's working hours. My father has been a night shift worker for over three decades at a local factory. We got used to silent days and busy nights, noticing how our lives weren't in sync with those of our neighbors. After all those years, my fascination with the night as a separate, habitable world became a research project as a Mellon Fellow at McGill University. Then it became an opportunity to work with local governments and communities on nightlife policies. From June 2020 to November 2022, I was a member of the MTL 24/24's first Night Council in Montreal, where I contributed to data research and policies for nighttime governance. While trying to understand nocturnal life, two main questions emerged: Why should cities govern themselves after dark? How can they responsibly do so? The recent calls for a "science of the night" and evidence-based nighttime policymaking are taking place, as over 50 cities around the world have developed new forms of nighttime governance. A complex ecosystem Often, when people think about the nighttime in cities, a core set of impressions come to mind. There's fear of the dark, safety concerns and noise disturbances. It's a period that's ripe for partying, illicit activities and recklessness. And then there are the traditional notions of night: silence, sleep and rejuvenation. Much work has gone into figuring out how to alleviate some of these fears and facilitate quietude, such as building out a public lighting infrastructure and passing noise codes with special hotlines for noise complaints. However, the nightlife of any given city is far more complex. In my research, I mapped people, activities, organizations and communities that operate primarily during the night, forming a nightlife ecosystem. Some cultural spaces and institutions operate at night, like museums, college libraries and cafes. Media outlets don't stop reporting about the world at night, while some restaurants and convenience stores serve up food, drinks and cigarettes 24/7. If an accident happens at night, people need access to health care. Childbirth doesn't wait for the sun to rise. Waste management and roadwork often take place after dark to avoid interrupting traffic, and many formal and informal laborers do the work of keeping cities running efficiently while other people sleep. In many cities around the world, public transit runs late or overnight, and various communities make use of the city after dark to congregate, learn and explore, whether it's at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, night school or open mic nights. Governing and studying the night Fortunately, policymakers and scholars have recently made a push to prioritize the hours when cities are supposedly asleep. Amsterdam was the first city to formally recognize the night as a space and time that requires special attention from elected officials, citizens and civil servants. Following more than 10 years of appointing unofficial night mayors, Amsterdam formally institutionalized the position in 2014, which set the stage for a bureaucracy of councils, departments and commissions dedicated to governing the city after dark. Perhaps not surprisingly, New Yorkthe largest city in the U.S.was at the forefront of this movement in the country. In September 2017, the city established its Office of Nightlife with the appointment of Ariel Palitz as its founding directorthe equivalent of a night mayor or night czar. With Palitz stepping down from the role in early 2023, the city is looking for a new "nightlife mayor." This office is tasked with the routine regulation of after-hours businesses and issuing licenses, as well as confronting abstract challenges like the ways in which gentrification leads to rising rent prices, which threaten cultural and community spaces that operate at night. Since then, Washington has established an office for nocturnal governance, Boston recently created the position of night czar, and Atlanta formed a Nightlife Division. Night governance is more institutionalized in the higher-income parts of the world, but experiments and studies also exist in lower-income countries. In 2022, Bogota joined the "24-Hour Cities Network," following the publication of an extensive report commissioned by the local government in 2019, to help city leaders understand the nocturnal needs of the Colombian capital. Other cities in Latin America, such as San Luis Potosi in Mexico, have self-appointed night ambassadors. Cali, the third-largest city in Colombia, launched an initiative that mapped the nighttime priorities of its residents. In academia, there's also been a push to better understand the night. As the authors of a 2022 nighttime manifesto wrote, "Nightlife inspires individuals, forms communities, and ignites cities. Rather than serving as an escape from the present, nightlife provides us with a window into different realities." Encompassing disciplines like geography and history, an interdisciplinary field called "night studies" has emerged, bringing together scholars from various backgrounds to better understand the urban night from a range of perspectives. There have been studies on light pollution and its effects on humans and wildlife, how the shuttering of LGBTQ nightclubs has weakened communities and how late-night venues and businesses spur higher rents. Responsible tech adoption As cities formally adopt systems to govern the night, one of my key concerns centers on the rise of surveillance technology and the deployment of big data. Even if technology isn't one of the main pillars of nighttime governance just yet, municipal governments have already been investing in smart technologies, often without proper frameworks in place to safeguard human rights. One of the most controversial examples is the deployment of facial recognition technologies in public spaces, which has happened in cities such as New York, Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires. The use of facial recognition at music festivals in 2019 led to campaigns for its ban. In my view, the urge to make the night safer should not simply mean more surveillance. The use of surveillance technologies has also been shown to increase racial and gender discrimination because they often incorporate biased data sets and disregard historical inequalities. There's a long history of night regulations and policing that has disproportionately targeted minorities. With responsible, careful deployment, however, certain data can be a useful tool for night governance. For example, responsibly tracking movement at night can help cities understand where more nighttime public transit might be useful. Expanding safety and a sense of belonging is essential. While consulting with residents of Montreal, I learned about the ways in which they wanted the night to be safer for LGBTQ communities and free from racial and ethnic discrimination. The city's nightlife was also entangled with the fight against gentrification and more reasonable noise mitigation policiesissues that affect many places in North America. As more American cities adopt nighttime governance mechanisms, lessons learned from cities like Montreal are valuableand can help families like my own, who don't operate on the traditional 9-to-5 clock, thrive. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. 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: Micro-CT scans of 460-million-year-old bivalves Anomalodonta (left) and Vanuxemia (right), early members of the lineage that gave rise to scallops, mussels, oysters, cockles, quahogs, and many other species. Credit: Stewart Edie Every so often, life on Earth steps onto a nearly empty playing field and faces a spectacular opportunity. Something major changesin the atmosphere or in the oceans, or in the organisms themselves and the existing species begin to branch out into a brand-new world. Scientists are fascinated by this process, because it's a unique look into evolution at pivotal moments in the history of life. A new study led by scientists with the University of Chicago examined how bivalvesthe group that includes clams, mussels, scallops, and oystersevolved among many others in the period of rapid evolution known as the Cambrian Explosion. The team found that though many other lineages burst into action and quickly evolved a wide variety of forms and functions, the bivalves lagged behind, perhaps because they took too long to evolve a particular adaptation they needed to flourish. The study has implications for how we understand evolution and the impact of extinctions, the scientists said. Shell and high water A little more than 500 million years ago, the diversity of life on Earth suddenly exploded. Known as the Cambrian Explosion, this dramatic episode saw the emergence of many forms of life that persist today. Among these were the bivalveshard-twin-shelled organisms that live on the seafloor. A group of researchers decided to catalogue the rise of the bivalves to see how they fared in a nearly empty sea with a brand-new body design. The research team, including Stewart Edie (Ph.D.'18) with the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, Katie Collins with the U.K.'s Natural History Museum, and Sharon Zhou, a fourth-year undergraduate student at UChicago, went through the fossil record and painstakingly examined each known fossil species to get a picture of how the bivalves evolved new forms and ways of livingsuch as burrowing into the seafloor sediment versus attaching themselves to rocks. "For example, you can look at the shape of the shell and tell if they are likely digging into the seafloor sediment, because they become long and thin for burrowing," explained Zhou. They pieced together a comprehensive picture of the bivalves' evolutionand were surprised. "You might think that they would take immediate advantage of this new body design and go on to fame and biological fortune," said David Jablonski, the William R. Kenan Jr. Distinguished Service Professor of Geophysical Sciences at UChicago and co-corresponding author on the paper. "But they didn't." Instead, the bivalves branched out slowly compared to other groups that originated at the time. "It's kind of amazing they made it through at all," said Jablonski. "Even after they got their act together and began to diversify about 40 million years in, they never showed a true explosion in species or ecologies." One thing they wanted to check was whether this could be a false impression caused by some gap in the fossil record. Collins explained that fossils from that era are difficult to find in the first placemany rocks have since been metamorphized into other rock typesand also hard to identify where they do exist. However, Edie and Zhou ran a series of tests and computer simulations and found this was unlikely to have affected the results: "We'd need a really extreme simulation to change the pattern we see in the rocks," said Edie. "It's much more likely that this slow start was the real story." It's not clear why the bivalves lagged, but one possibility is that they hadn't yet evolved a key organ that allowed them to take off: an enlarged gill to filter out plankton from water, as so many bivalves do today. By the time they came up with this adaptation, the seafloor was much more crowded. "If you show up early to the dance floor, you can do whatever you want, but if you show up late, it restricts the range of moves," Jablonski said. But the bivalves do survive and even thrive today, despite their lag. "It tells us there's more than one pathway to success, even when you are starting at the very beginning of multicellular life," said Jablonski. Scientists are particularly interested in cataloguing these accounts of evolution, because they can suggest how life adapts and radiates in the wake of major disruptions or extinctions. The researchers plan to look at bivalves' response to extinctions over time and see if similar patterns emerge. "For all kinds of reasons, we want to understand what it means to repopulate after an extinctionfor example, what could happen as a result of the major extinction we are undergoing right now," said Jablonski. The study was also a learning experience for Zhou, who is an undergraduate at the University of Chicago. Zhou intended to major in math, but was hooked on evolutionary biology after she took a course to fulfill UChicago's Core requirements in the sciences. She spent several years working in Jablonski's lab, and now plans to attend graduate school in the subject. "How life happens on earthto me, that is one of the greatest mysteries we can try to solve," said Zhou. UChicago postdoctoral researcher Nicholas Crouch was also a co-author on the paper. More information: Sharon Zhou et al, Cambrian origin but no early burst in functional disparity for Class Bivalvia, Biology Letters (2023). DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2023.0157 Journal information: Biology Letters 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: Global heat storage has increased significantly in the ground (red line), in thawing permafrost (green line) and in inland water bodies (blue line) over the period from 1960 to 2020. The new calculations add precision to data from an earlier study (von Schuckmann et al. (2020)). Credit: Author(s) 2023 The increase in anthropogenic greenhouse gases in the atmosphere prevents the emission of heat into space. As a result, the Earth constantly absorbs more heat through solar radiation than it can give back off through thermal radiation. Previous studies show where this additional energy is stored: primarily in the oceans (89 percent), but also in the land masses of the continents (5-6 percent), in ice and glaciers (4 percent) and in the atmosphere (1-2 percent). However, this knowledge is incomplete: For example, it was previously uncertain just how this additional heat was distributed in the continental landmasses. The research team, headed by the UFZ and with the participation of scientists from the Alfred Wegener Institute (Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI)), Vrije Universiteit Brussel and other research centers, was able to quantify more precisely how much heat has been stored in the continental land masses between 1960 and 2020. The result: continental landmasses have absorbed a total of 23.8 x 1021 Joules of heat between 1960 and 2020. For comparison, this corresponds to roughly 1800 times the electric power consumption of Germany over the same period. Most of this heat, roughly 90 percent, is stored up to 300 meters deep in the Earth. Nine percent of the energy is used to thaw permafrost in the Arctic and 0.7 percent is stored in inland water bodies such as lakes and reservoirs. "Although the inland water bodies and permafrost store less heat than the ground, they have to be monitored continuously because the additional energy in these subsystems causes significant changes in ecosystems," says UFZ researcher and lead author of the study Francisco Jose Cuesta-Valero. The scientists also demonstrated that the quantity of heat stored in the ground, in permafrost and in lakes has been increasing continuously since the 1960s. For example, a comparison of the two decades from 1960-1970 and from 2010-2020, this quantity increased by nearly 20 times from 1.007 to 18.83 x 1021 Joules in the ground, from 0.058 to 2.0 x 1021 Joules in permafrost regions and from -0.02 to 0.17 x 1021 Joules in inland water bodies. The maps show the spatial distribution of heat storage for (a) ground heat storage from subsurface temperature profiles measured after 1990, (b) storage from inland water bodies and (c) storage from permafrost thawing. Please note the different scale for permafrost heat storage. Credit: Author(s) 2023 The researchers used more than 1,000 temperature profiles worldwide to calculate the quantities of heat stored at depths of up to 300 meters. They used models to estimate the thermal storage in permafrost and inland water bodies. For example, they combined global lake models, hydrological models and Earth system models to model the waters. They estimated thermal storage in permafrost with a permafrost model that accounts for various plausible distributions of ground ice in the Arctic. "Using models enabled us to compensate for the lack of observations in many lakes and in the Arctic and to better estimate the uncertainties due to the limited number of observations," explains Francisco Jose Cuesta-Valero. Quantifying this thermal energy is important because its increase is associated with processes that can change ecosystems and can thus have consequences for society. This applies, for example, to the permanently frozen ground in the Arctic. "Although the quantity of heat stored in the permafrost may only comprise nine percent of continental heat storage, the increase over recent years further promotes the release of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane due to thawing of permafrost," says Francisco Jose Cuesta-Valero. If the thermal energy stored in the ground increases, the surface of the Earth heats up, thereby placing the stability of the carbon pool in the ground at risk, for example. In agricultural areas, the associated warming of the surface could pose a risk to harvests and hence the food security of the population. In inland water bodies, the changed thermal state could affect the dynamics of the ecosystems: Water quality worsens, the carbon cycle is thrown off; algal blooms increase and in turn affect oxygen concentration and primary productivity, thereby affecting fishery production. Therefore, co-author Prof. Dr. Jian Peng, head of the UFZ Remote Sensing Department, says, "It is important to more precisely quantify and monitor how much additional heat is absorbed by the continental land masses. This is a key metric for understanding how changes in natural processes resulting from heat storage will affect humans and nature in the future." The work is published in the journal Earth System Dynamics. More information: Francisco Jose Cuesta-Valero et al, Continental heat storage: contributions from the ground, inland waters, and permafrost thawing, Earth System Dynamics (2023). DOI: 10.5194/esd-14-609-2023 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: Map of the Channel Islands off the coast of southern California, USA and the unique Urocyon littoralis samples for exome sequencing. Historical samples are signified by circles and modern samples by triangles. Islands that went through a recent bottleneck are indicated with asterisks. Credit: Molecular Ecology (2023). DOI: 10.1111/mec.17025 Tiny foxeseach no bigger than a five-pound housecatinhabiting the Channel Islands off the coast of Southern California were saved from extinction in 2016. However, new research reveals that the foxes now face a different threat to their survival. Suzanne Edmands, professor of biological sciences at USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, and Nicole Adams, who earned her Ph.D. from USC Dornsife in 2019, found that the foxes' genetic diversity has decreased over time, possibly jeopardizing their survival and the biodiversity of the islands. "The findings of this study highlight the alarming fact that the foxes currently inhabiting six of the Channel Islands possess extremely low genetic diversity, rendering them potentially more susceptible to dangers such as disease outbreaks and climate-induced environmental shifts," Edmands said. As the largest native land animals on the islands located 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, these bushy-tailed, big-eared creatures play a vital role in regulating plant and animal communities by consuming various food sources, including fruit, insects, snails, lizards, birds, and rodents. In fact, many plant species rely on them to distribute seeds through their scat. "The importance of these animals to the overall biodiversity of the island can't be over-emphasized. Without them, we could lose other species as well," Edmands said. A previous study done in 2018 lacked sufficient sampling to detect changes in genetic variation. This new study used a broader sampling method, comparing historic museum specimens and modern blood samples. Interestingly, the results indicated extremely low genetic variation even before the population declines. It also revealed that the genetic variation had dropped even further since population numbers fell. The islands that experienced the most severe losses, San Miguel and Santa Rosa, also showed the greatest reduction in genetic diversity. Santa Cruz and Santa Catalina, two islands where populations fell moderately, displayed mixed changes in genetic diversity metrics. Placing these island foxes on the endangered species list from 2004-16 played a crucial role in population recovery. By 2017a year after they were removed as an endangered species the population on Catalina was found to have increased over that 13-year period from approximately 100 to more than 2,000, while Santa Rosa Island's fox population rose from a low of 15 to more than 1200 over the same time span. However, their depleted genetic diversity continues to hinder the foxes' ability to adapt to future challenges, such as global warming and introduced diseases. While genetic variation is crucial for disease resistance and adaptation to climate change, the scientists did find one silver lining in their research. They found reasonably good diversity within the foxes' gut microbiome, a key player in bolstering immunity and overall well-being. "This discovery suggests that the foxes may have developed an alternative mechanism to cope with changing environmental conditions," Edmands said. The study also reveals an increased divergence between the six islands over time. This finding complicates the possible conservation strategy of moving foxes between islands to increase genetic variation. Such a move could inadvertently disrupt local adaptation by producing offspring that are less fit or not as well adapted to their specific environments. It should be noted that each island population is recognized as a separate endemic or unique subspecies. Given their limited ability to respond to new challenges, long-term monitoring of the fox population is crucial. To that end, researchers have already started non-invasive monitoring by sequencing bacterial communities in the foxes' scat. "The recovery of fox population numbers is an incredible conservation success, but their fragile genetic condition means that continued vigilance is critical to ensure their survival," Edmands said. The work is published in the journal Molecular Ecology. More information: Nicole E. Adams et al, Genomic recovery lags behind demographic recovery in bottlenecked populations of the Channel Island fox, Urocyon littoralis, Molecular Ecology (2023). DOI: 10.1111/mec.17025 Journal information: Molecular Ecology 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: Firefighters with Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency work to put out fires in the Tantallon area of Nova Scotia. Firefighters on Wednesday faced a grueling uphill battle against wildfires in Canada's Nova Scotia province, including one threatening suburbs of Halifax. Federal help was coming, officials said, along with firefighters from the United States. "We're in a crisis in the province and we want and we need and we will take all the support we can get," Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston told a news conference. "These fires are unprecedented." Already, additional kit have been shipped in from Ontario, and a dozen water bombers from neighboring regions and the Coast Guard joined efforts to douse the flames and assist with evacuations. Houston said he has also asked for the military to help out. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the wildfires "heartbreaking," and vowed unlimited support. As of Wednesday, 14 wildfires were burning in Nova Scotia, including three out of control. They've so far destroyed or damaged more than 200 homes and other structures including a wooden bridge, but no injuries have been reported. One couple described to public broadcaster CBC having lost both their home and their childcare business. "That's my life," a tearful Terri Kottwitz said. Others said they saw trees on fire in their backyard as they fled with just a moment's notice. Evacuee Janis Churchill-Moher told CBC that she didn't know if her home in the picturesque rural south of the province was still standing. "Our neighbors have working farms and they just had to pack up their kids, pack up as many animals as fast as they could and run," she said. More than 2,000 residents of the area were ordered to evacuate earlier in the week as fires swept through the area. "It's a devastating situation for everybody," she said. More than 16,000 people were forced to evacuate their homes in Canada's eastern province of Nova Scotia. 'Frustrated and frightened' Smoke from the wildfires blew down the Atlantic coast, prompting air quality alerts for the US state of New Jersey and parts of Pennsylvania, including the Philadelphia area. David Meldrum of the Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency, pointing to record-high temperatures forecast this week, warned of "a prolonged operation" to bring under control a large fire northwest of the port city that has displaced more than 16,000 residents. "People are understandably tired, frustrated and frightened," said Halifax Mayor Mike Savage, adding that "some have no home to return to." Houston announced a ban on all activities in Nova Scotia forests, including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, the use of off-road vehicles and logging. "For God's sake, stop burning. Stop flicking cigarette butts out of the car window. Just stop it. Our resources are stretched incredibly thin right now fighting existing fires," he pleaded after several illegal burns were reported by conservation officers. Government data shows a decline in the number of wildfires in Canada since the 1980s, likely due to improved fire prevention. But the past decade also saw more disastrous wildfires scorching a lot more land and displacing many more peopleproblems set to worsen with climate change. In recent years western Canada has been hit repeatedly by extreme weather, including floods and mudslides, forest fires that destroyed an entire town, and record-high summer temperatures that killed more than 500 people in 2021. On Tuesday, 800 residents of Fort Chiepwyan in northern Alberta had to be airlifted to safety as fires beared down on the remote hamlet. Earlier this month, wildfires in Alberta burned nearly one million hectares of forests and grasslands, and at one point displaced 30,000 people. 2023 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: UV-vis reflectance spectra collected during the irradiation of 13C-acetylene (13C 2 H 2 ) and 13C-methane (13CH 4 ) ices. (A) 13C 2 H 2 ice irradiated at 10 K. (B) 13C 2 H 2 ice irradiated at 40 K. (C) 13CH 4 ice irradiated at 10 K. (D) 13CH 4 ice irradiated at 20 K. All the spectra were normalized at 550 nm. Credit: Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg6936 The Kuiper Belt is a massive disk of icy bodies, including Pluto, that is located just outside of Neptune's orbit in our solar system. Objects observed in the Kuiper Belt exhibit a more diversified color range than any other solar system population, with colors ranging from white to dark reddish. While the source of this diversity in colors is unknown, scientists have speculated that it is likely the result of the prolonged exposure to radiation of organic materials by galactic cosmic rays. A new study led by researchers in University of Hawaii at Manoa's Department of Chemistry has replicated the environment in the Kuiper Belt to discover what is causing the array of colors in hydrocarbon-rich surfaces of Kuiper Belt objects, providing a solution to a long-standing problem in astrophysics. The study was published in Science Advances on May 31. The research team led by Professor Ralf I. Kaiser performed the cutting-edge research at UH Manoa. They used ultra-high vacuum irradiation experiments and conducted comprehensive analyses to examine the color evolution and its source on the molecular level, as galactic cosmic rays processed hydrocarbons, such as methane and acetylene, under Kuiper Belt-like conditions. Aromatic (organic molecules with fused benzene rings) structural units carrying up to three rings, for example in the chemical compounds phenanthrene, phenalene and acenaphthylene, connected by hydrogen-deficient bridges among each other, were found to play a key role in producing reddish colors. The UH experiments demonstrated the level of molecular complexity of galactic cosmic rays processing hydrocarbons and provided insight into the role played by ices exposed to radiation in the early production of biological precursor molecules, molecules that participate in a chemical reaction that produces another molecule. "This research is a critical first step to systematically unravel the carriers of the molecular units responsible for hydrocarbon-rich surfaces of Kuiper Belt objects," Kaiser said. "Since astronomical detections also detected, e.g., ammonia, water, and methanol, on the surfaces of Kuiper Belt objects, further experiments on the cosmic ray processing of these ices hopefully reveal the nature of the true color diversity of Kuiper Belt objects on the molecular level." The research team consisted of Ralf I. Kaiser, Chaojiang Zhang, Cheng Zhu, Andrew M. Turner and Ivan O. Antonov from UH Manoa; Adrien D. Garcia and Cornelia Meinert from Cote d'Azur University in France; Leslie A. Young from the Southwest Research Institute in Colorado; and David C. Jewitt from UCLA, who previously worked at UH's Institute for Astronomy. More information: Chaojiang Zhang et al, Processing of methane and acetylene ices by galactic cosmic rays and implications to the color diversity of Kuiper Belt objects, Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg6936 Journal information: Science Advances Seoul, South Korea (CNN) North Koreas attempt to launch a military reconnaissance satellite failed Wednesday when the second stage of the rocket failed, state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said, adding that Pyongyang planned to carry out a second launch as soon as possible. The new satellite vehicle rocket, Chollima-1, crashed into the West Sea as it lost propulsion due to an abnormal startup of the engine on the 2nd stage after the 1st stage was separated during normal flight, KCNA said. The report said the reliability and stability of the new engine system was low and the fuel used unstable, leading to the missions failure. North Koreas National Space Development Agency said it would investigate the failure urgently and carry out another launch after new testing, KCNA reported. The South Korean Joint Chief of Staff said it identified an object presumed to be part of what North Korea claims to be its space launch vehicle in the sea about 200 kilometers (125 miles) west of Eocheong Island at around 8:05 a.m. and is in the process of obtaining it. Earlier, South Koreas military said Pyongyang fired a space projectile, triggering emergency alerts in Seoul and Japan, weeks after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ordered officials to prepare to launch the countrys first military reconnaissance satellite. South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said the launch occurred around 6:29 a.m. Two minutes later, an air raid siren sounded in Seoul, and a minute after that a text message was sent urging residents to prepare to evacuate and allow children and the elderly evacuate first. Another message followed at 6:41 a.m. to say the warnings were sent in error. Japans Defense Ministry had warned on Monday it would destroy any North Korean missile that entered its territory after Pyongyang notified the country of plans to launch a satellite between May 31 and June 11. Wednesdays launch triggered alarms in Japan, where alerts issued for the Okinawa prefecture were later recalled after authorities there determined there was no threat to Japanese territory. South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said the projectile was launched from Tongchang-ri, Pyongan province towards the south, and was detected flying over the west of Baengnyeong Island in the Yellow Sea. A separate warning was issued for Baengnyeong Island that was lifted just after 8 a.m, according to South Koreas Ministry of Interior and Safety, which said the projectile was launched over the West Sea. 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 school of Jacks in Revillagigedo National Park, south of Baja California, Mexico. Revillagigedo National Park is the largest fully-protected marine protected area in North America, and fishing is prohibited. Credit: Octavio Aburto/National Geographic Pristine Seas. A new study published in Science Advances today provides evidence that large-scale, offshore, and fully-protected marine areas (MPAs) protect biodiversity without negatively impacting fishing and food security. In the first-ever "before and after" assessment of the impact of establishing Mexico's Revillagigedo National Park on the fishing industry, a team of US and Mexican researchers found that Mexico's industrial fishing sector did not incur economic losses five years after the park's creation despite a full ban on fishing activity within the MPA. Established in 2017, the "Galapagos of Mexico" is the world's 13th-largest MPA, and one of the few where all damaging human activities, including fishing, are banned to help marine populations recover. Home to one of the world's largest aggregations of sharks and manta rays, as well as tuna, humpback whales and five species of sea turtles, it also shelters more than 300 species of fish, of which 36 are not found anywhere else in the ocean. At the time, the Mexican industrial fishing lobby opposed the creation of the National Park, arguing that it would impact their catches and increase their costs. "Worldwide, the fishing industry has blocked the establishment of the marine protected areas we urgently need to reverse the human-caused global depletion of sea life. This study uses satellite tracking of fishing vessels and artificial intelligence (AI) to show that the fishing industry's concerns are unfounded," said Enric Sala, Explorer in Residence at National Geographic Society, the founder of Pristine Seas and a study co-author. "Even the largest of MPAs, which safeguard entire ecosystems, home to thousands of species of marine creatures, do not impact the handful of fish species that the fishing industry seeks out. The larger the MPA, the larger the benefits." Methodology The study, conducted by a team of researchers from the Mexican Center for Marine Biodiversity, UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the Institute of Americas' Gulf of California Marine Program, and the National Geographic Society, analyzes the behavior and productivity of the Mexican industrial fishing sector before and five years after the implementation of the largest fully protected MPA in North America, the Revillagigedo National Park. Using data from satellite tracking, fish catches from the Mexican Fisheries Commission, and new AI tools from the Allen Institute for AI's Skylight platform, the experts set out to determine whether the creation of the MPA reduced fishing within the protected area, whether fishing catches were affected and if the creation of the MPA displaced fishing onto a larger area, resulting in an overall negative impact on marine biodiversity. "The use of satellite tracking devices and AI monitoring platforms was critical to show compliance from the fishing industry and for the MPA managers' to monitor the protected area," said Dr. Fabio Favoretto, postdoctoral scholar at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and lead author of the study. A diver swims in Revillagigedo National Park, south of Baja California, Mexico. Revillagigedo National Park is the largest fully-protected marine protected area in North America. Credit: Octavio Aburto/National Geographic Pristine Seas. The satellite data analyzed by Favoretto came from government-mandated GPS devices installed on some 2,000 fishing vessels. By reviewing the open source data, they were able to identify movement of fishing vessels to see if fishing behaviors or maneuvers were performed. The team then employed machine-learning enabled techniques to identify patterns associated with vessels. They found that the Revillagigedo National Park has had no negative effect on the Mexican industrial fleet's catches, nor did it increase the area used for fishing that would drive fishing vessels to venture further to catch fish. Skylight revealed only a few isolated cases of illegal fishing within the MPA after 2017, highlighting the effectiveness of technology in helping those monitoring and protecting the 147,000 square kilometers of waters included within the park's boundary. The study results refute the Mexican fishing industry's argument that the park would cause a potential loss of 20% of their tuna and other pelagic catches and provide proof that large, fully-protected MPAs can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable use of the ocean, without major economic repercussions on the fishing industry. "The findings of this study are consistent with what experts have recorded in other Pacific marine protected areas," said Octavio Aburto, co-author and professor of marine biology at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. "Any argument to the contrary were just assumptionsthis study provides the data to show that negative impacts to fishing do not exist. We hope the results can open a discussion to work together with the fishing industry to protect biodiversity and improve fish stocks." Safeguarding biodiversity The findings are released at a time when countries debate how to implement the global goal to protect and conserve at least 30% of the ocean by 2030, which is enshrined in a landmark agreement reached at the UN Global Biodiversity Conference (COP15) in December 2022. Just last month, United Nations members agreed on a legally-binding instrument to protect biodiversity in the high seasthe international waters beyond national jurisdictions. "The clock is ticking until 2030," Sala said. "If the world is serious about protecting the natural worldour life support systemwe need to drastically increase ocean protection. Right now, less than 8% of the ocean is somewhat protected, and only 3% is fully protected from fishing and other damaging activities. Millions of species, including humans, who rely on the ocean for oxygen, food, mitigation of global warming, medicine and more depend on us to act." Threatened by human activities like overfishing, the ocean's rich stockpile of biodiversity is rapidly declining, posing risks to food security, health and the environment. By rapidly establishing marine protected areas in strategic ocean areas, the world can collectively safeguard more than 80% of the habitats of endangered species, up from a current coverage of less than 2%. Amid these debates, the study provides empirical evidence that large-scale MPAs in countries' Exclusive Economic Zones can contribute to global conservation goals without compromising fisheries' interests or a nation's ability to ensure food security. A scientific diver performs a survey transect in Revillagigedo National Park, south of Baja California, Mexico. The orange fish is the endemic Clarion angelfish (Holacanthus clarionensis). Credit: Octavio Aburto/National Geographic Pristine Seas. Shoring up the fishing industry The study refutes a long-held view promoted by the industrial fishing lobby that ocean protection harms fisheries, and opens up new opportunities to revive the industry just as it is suffering from a recession due to overfishing and the impacts of global warming. "Some argue that closing areas to fishing hurts fishing interests. But the worst enemy of fishing is overfishing and bad managementnot protected areas," Dr. Sala said. The study will enrich ongoing discussions taking place in Mexico and beyond as Catalina Lopez-Sagastegui, co-author and a researcher at the Institute of Americas, said, "Access to data and technology is improving our collective understanding of marine ecosystems health, which allows us to design and implement MPAs that help restore the health and resilience of marine ecosystems, benefiting fisheries in the long term." Dr. Reniel Cabral, Senior Lecturer at James Cook University in Australia, who wasn't involved in this study, added: "It's simple: When overfishing and other damaging activities cease, marine life bounces back. After protections are put in place, the diversity and abundance of marine life increase over time, with measurable recovery occurring in as little as three years. Target species and large predators come back, and entire ecosystems are restored within MPAs. With time, the ocean can heal itself and again provide services to humankind." Dr. Sala said, "MPAs are the most effective tool we have for protecting the health and diversity of our oceans. We need to expand and strengthen protected areas to ensure that our oceans can continue to provide food, jobs and other vital benefits for future generations. Our study helps to dispel the myth put forward by the industrial fishing lobby that MPAs harm them." More information: Fabio Favoretto, The largest fully protected marine area in North America does not harm industrial fishing, Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adg0709. www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adg0709 Journal information: Science Advances 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: Major components of the Internet of Animals (IoA) that are now online.Hexagons show the 50 largest and most important components of the IoA (see Table S1 in the supplemental information online for details), with shape size showing the relative size of each data set. Much of the spatial data (green shading) is centralized in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). Genetic data are available and relevant for many species and individual animals, if linked properly. Remote-sensing data describe the world animals move through and can be linked by time and location. Credit: Trends in Ecology & Evolution (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2023.04.007 Dating apps are making predictions about who you'll fall in love with while marketers are using your online data to predict what you'll want to buy. As technology has transformed how people work, shop and date, ecologists are asking: How can we use these same tools to help animals other than humans? In a new paper in Trends in Ecology and Evolution, two researchers suggest artificial intelligence and the growing body of information online, which they call the "internet of animals," could empower scientists to make real-time predictions about the future of species amid climate change, diseases and more. "We're very good at predicting human behavior," said Roland Kays, research professor in forestry and environmental resources at North Carolina State University and head of the Biodiversity Research Lab at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. "We think we need to use these same technologies to predict animal behavior in order to manage our impacts on them. That's what the internet of animals needs to do more ofmake predictions." The Abstract spoke to Kays, who co-authored the review paper with Martin Wikelski, an ornithologist at the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior in Germany, about what the internet of animals is used for now, and what the future could look like. TA: What is the 'internet of animals?' Kays: The internet of animals is all of humanity's knowledge about animals coming together online in real-time into large databases that are linked together and to AI. We're trying to do that in a way that helps conservation, so animals and humans can live better on the planet together. TA: What kind of information makes up the internet of animals? Kays: Right now, the largest sources of information online about animals are databases of spatial information showing where and when species are found. We have museum collections, citizen science observations collected through websites like iNaturalist and animal tracking data in a database I help run called Movebank. But then we have other kinds of information as well: records of zoonotic diseases; databases of veterinary records; and lists of the conservation status of species around the world. People are also creating new databases about different animal traits, like body size, brain size and home range. These databases are now online and are increasingly being connected with each other. That's what we're calling the internet of animalsall of these different databases that have a connection between them, and some analysis engine to combine them into actionable information. TA: What are some of the challenges for scientists in using this data? Kays: One of the challenges is data fusion. How do you fit different types of data together to learn about how animal populations are doing? TA: What is the role of artificial intelligence? Kays: I like the analogy of AI being the oil in the gears. It makes everything run more smoothly. When you deal with massive data sets, you can't necessarily have a person look at everything. You've got to have some automated processes to speed things along. The big advantage of AI is that it's making analysis more efficient. Right now artificial intelligence is helping identify plant and animal species in pictures. iNaturalist has trained its algorithms to identify plants and animals. We're working with Google to use AI to help with animal identification in camera trapping pictures on Wildlife Insights. There's the example of BirdCast, which uses multiple data sources every day to forecast when birds are migrating overhead. Cities are starting to turn out the lights to protect those birds during that part of the year. TA: How could the internet of animals help animals? Kays: Some of the best examples now are "real-time conservation action" projects that are making predictions so we can turn off the lights when migratory birds are coming through a city or certain area, like with BirdCast, or warning ships so they don't run into whales through a project in California called Whale Safe. Those are examples of what we can do now, but I think we're just getting started. What scientists are interested in is looking at where animals will be able to survive in the future with climate change. You could use these predictions to make sure animals can find new habitat, or do we need to do an emergency translocation and move them? We could also use information collected on the behavior of the animal to tell rangers where the poachers are. TA: What are some ways ecologists could use technology in the future? Kays: What if we used linked data to monitor diseases across wild and domestic animals? What if we had birds flying with sensors to contribute to weather models? In terms of population monitoring, one thing I think we could do is monitor animals or insects with security or doorbell cameras and car sensors. Cars could be identifying and counting deer by the road, and warning you and other drivers. There's so much information being collected about animals todayon purpose or by accident. We need an efficient, AI-powered internet of animals to help make sense of it, and use it for conservation. 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: Austin Langton, a researcher at NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Florida, creates a fine spray of the regolith simulant BP-1. Credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett Multiple missions are destined for the moon in this decade. These include robotic and crewed missions conducted by space agencies, commercial space entities, and non-profit organizations. The risks and hazards of going to the moon are well-documented, thanks to Apollo Program and the six crewed missions it sent to the lunar surface between 1969 and 1972. But unlike the "footprints and flags" of yesterday, the plan for the coming decade is to create a "sustained program of lunar exploration and development." This means establishing a greater presence on the moon, building infrastructure (like habitats, power systems, and landing pads), and missions regularly coming and going. Given the low-gravity environment on the moon, spacecraft kick up a lot of lunar regolith (aka., "moon dust") during takeoff and landing. This regolith is electrostatically-charged, very abrasive, and wreaks havoc on machines and equipment. In a recent study, NASA researchers Philip T. Metzger and James G. Mantovani considered how much damage all this regolith could inflict on orbiting spacecraft. Philip T. Metzger is a planetary physicist and associate scientist at the University of Central Florida (UCF) who recently retired from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, where he co-founded the KSC Swamp Works. James G. Mantovani is an astrophysicist and researcher with Exploration Systems & Development at the KSC Swamp Works. The paper that describes their findings, "The Damage to Lunar Orbiting Spacecraft Caused by the Ejecta of Lunar Landers," recently appeared online in arXiv. In addition to the Apollo astronauts, space agencies have sent robotic missions to the moon for over six decades. The first missions were launched by the Soviet Union in 1959, the Luna 1 and 2 probes, which passed close to the moon and landed on the surface (respectively). These missions have revealed volumes of data about the moon's composition, structure, environment, and evolutionary history. This includes the fact that most of the lunar surface is covered with a fine powder known as lunar regolith. This dust is composed of silicate minerals created by billions of years of meteors and micrometeorites pounding the surface. Whereas Earth's fluffy atmosphere ensures that most of these space rocks burn up before reaching the surface, the moon has no atmosphere to speak of. In addition, the airless lunar environment experiences no precipitation and no wind-driven erosion, leaving all this regolith jagged and edged. On top of that, the interaction between the surface and charged solar particles (aka. solar wind) has left the regolith electrostatically chargedcausing it to stick to everything! As Metzger explained to Universe Today via email, this makes lunar regolith a major hazard for robotic and crewed lunar exploration: "Lunar regolith is a hazard for exploration because it is unlike terrestrial soil. So neither our technologies nor our physiology are adapted to it. It is very easy for a rover to get stuck in lunar soil because the fine particles cause it to have very high dilatancy, which is a property of soil that causes it to fluff up when a wheel drives over it. It is also a health hazard because the fine dust can get into the bottom of your lungs, where it can cause long-term degradation of your respiratory health." For their purposes, Metzger and Mantovani explored the potential hazard regolith poses to takeoff and landing, resulting from the moon being airless and having lower gravity (16.5% that of Earth). "The fine dust is accelerated by the rocket exhaust to extremely high velocity, and the moon has no atmosphere, so there is nothing to slow the dust down until it impacts some other asset at the moon, either on the lunar surface or in orbit," he added. "This can cause extremely high levels of sandblasting on those nearby assets." In addition to missions in orbit, regolith kicked up by takeoff and landing can degrade elements on the surfaceranging from solar cells and thermal radiators to sensors and vehicles. Assessing the potential for damage requires that scientists simulate fluid dynamics on the lunar surface. This meant considering cratering and erosion regime physics models with ejecta trajectories and possible damage scenarios. As Metzger explained, this was possible by combining data from past missions with computer and physical simulations: "To quantify the ejection of soil and dust from rocket exhaust, we have performed experiments, computer simulations, and analyses of the imagery sent back from previous lunar missions. For example, we have performed about 400 experiments in reduced gravity using the reduced gravity aircraft. These have enabled us to determine how much faster soil erosion will be in lunar gravity compared to terrestrial gravity. We have also performed experiments in a vacuum chamber and have discovered that the erosion rate is faster when the gas is rarefied." These vacuum chamber experiments largely consisted of aircraft landing in a chamber filled with JSC-1A, a lunar soil simulant created by scientists at the NASA Johnson Space Center between 2004 and 2008. One such experiment was conducted by Metzger in 2015 with his colleague John E. Lane, a researcher with the Granular Mechanics and Regolith Operations (GMRO) Lab at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Metzger and Mantovani also considered previous work by Metzger and Lane, where they showed how the trajectories of ejecta come down to the angles, velocities, and sizes of particles. They also compared this experimental data to images taken by the Lunar Lander Modules (LLMs) used by the Apollo astronauts. The results showed that ejecta would have varying effects on orbiting spacecraft, depending on the nature and elevation of their orbits. Moreover, said Metzger, the effects could still be problematic over time: "We have found that the Lunar Gateway, which will be in near rectilinear halo orbit, high above the moon, will experience only slight damage from the ejector. However, it is important to know the amount of damage because it could affect sensitive instruments even at that altitude. It is much worse in low lunar orbit. If a spacecraft happens to fly by at the wrong time near a lunar landing, we estimate about 4% of its glass surfaces will be chipped. This damage is cumulative with multiple exposures. That could be bad for sensitive equipment such as cameras on board the spacecraft." Through the Artemis Program, NASA and its partners will establish the long-term infrastructure to enable a "sustained program of lunar exploration and development." This includes the Lunar Gateway in orbit and the Artemis Base Camp on the surface, supporting regular robotic and human exploration. The European Space Agency also plans to establish the Lunar Village, an international research facility that will serve as a spiritual successor to the International Space Station (ISS). China and Russia have also partnered to create the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) as a direct competitor to the Artemis Program. A growing number of commercial space companies also plan to conduct regular missions to the moon, providing everything from payload and crew transportation to lunar tourism. A growing human presence will mean greatly increased activity on the lunar surface, which could have repercussions. Metzger says, assessing potential hazards and designing mitigation strategies is necessary today: "With the expected growth in lunar landing traffic, this may become a serious problem that will require international coordination to manage. We need to ensure that spacecraft do not happen to fly through the ejecta of a lunar landing. We need to have agreements on when to build lunar landing pads to reduce the amount of ejecta." "We also need to agree on how much damage we are allowed to cause to each other's spacecraft, because the damage cannot be reduced to zero. In the airless environment of the moon, we will always be damaging each other's hardware. However, we need to agree that some de minimus level of damage is acceptable and we need to define what that level is." More information: Philip T. Metzger et al, The Damage to Lunar Orbiting Spacecraft Caused by the Ejecta of Lunar Landers, arXiv (2023). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2305.12234 Journal information: arXiv 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: Effect of monodisperse binary nanoparticle mixture (220nm-diameter melanin and 220nm-diameter silica; melanin, blue spheres; silica, yellow spheres) composition and mixing state on the supraball color reflectance. -- (A) Visualizations of the cross-section of binary mixture supraballs with varying levels of particle mixing in the increasing order from top to bottom and varying relative proportion of silica in the increasing order from left to right. (B) Corresponding structural colors, represented as RGB color panels, of the binary mixture supraballs. Credit: Science Advances, doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adf2859 Materials scientists are often bioinspired, and in a new study, bird-inspired by structural colors exhibited by avian species to form non-iridescent nanoparticle assemblies. Such nanoparticle mixtures varying in particle chemistry and size can affect the color produced to identify structure-color relationships and create designer materials with tailored color. In a new report on Science Advances, Christian M. Heil, and a research team at several international, multidisciplinary research institutes in the U.S., Belgium, and Germany, showed how to reconstruct the assembled structures via small-angle scattering measurements. The research team successfully and quantitatively predicted the experimentally observed colors in mixtures with strongly absorbed nanoparticles to demonstrate the influence of a single layer of segregated nanoparticles and produce a color of interest. The versatile computational approaches integrated in this work were useful to engineer synthetic materials with desired colors suited for paints, cosmetics, and food coloring applications. Synthetic color fabrication and characterization. The color fabrication of synthetic materials is inspired by diverse arrays of color in nature. They can arise from the spatial organization of nanostructured materials that are resistant to color degradation. Materials with consistent, periodic nanostructures can form iridescent colors, while those with short-range ordering produce non-iridescent colors. Materials scientists can mimic natural non-iridescent structural colors by self-assembling polymeric nanoparticles via amorphous assemblies of inorganic nanoparticles. They can vary the colors of nanoparticle assemblies by regulating their structure and optical properties to provide increased structural diversity. Scientists can adjust the nanoparticle size ratio between the components and the composition by generating a myriad of diverse structures and structural colors. Characterizing designer materials Heil et al. used small-angle scattering and electron microscopy to obtain structural information of the designer materials. They further integrated small-angle neutron and X-ray scattering to provide well-suited methods to examine the nanoscale and bulk structural information. For optical modeling of complex nano-assemblies, they used the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. The small-angle-scattering experiments generated a scattering experiment profile, which they interpreted with computational reverse-engineering analysis for scattering experiments (CREASE) to generate nanoparticle assemblies. The researchers combined CREASE-FDTD methods to understand binary nanoparticle assemblies forming supraballs to produce a wide spectrum of colors. The outcomes characterized the optical properties of nanoparticle assemblies and showed the capacity to design colors on demand for wide-ranging applications in paints, cosmetics and food coloring. Applying the CREASE method to reconstruct the binary nanoparticle mixture assembly structure from SANS profiles. (A) Schematic describing the CREASE method operation. (B to D) SANS plot of I as a function of q for NCM (left top; gray dots) and MCM (left bottom; yellow dots) condition of binary mixture supraballs overlaid with the CREASE output structures' scattering profile for NCM and MCM condition for (B) 1:4, (C) 1:1, and (D) 4:1 melanin:silica compositions. (B) plots the NCM and MCM from CREASE as orange and green, respectively, with an 2 scattering error of 2.35, (C) colors the NCM and MCM from CREASE as black and red, respectively, with an 2 scattering error of 2.03, and (D) shows the NCM and MCM from CREASE as blue and purple, respectively, with an 2 scattering error of 2.01. (B) to (D) show, on the right, transmission electron micrograph of the cross section of a representative binary mixture supraball (right top; melanin, lighter spheres; silica, darker spheres; scale bars, 500 nm) and Visual Molecular Dynamics (VMD) visualization of the central portion (3 m by 3 m by 10 m) of reconstructed 3D binary nanoparticle mixture assembly with yellow spheres representing silica chemistry and blue spheres representing melanin (right bottom). (C) Scattering profile and CREASE results originally from (50). (E) Scanning electron micrographs of a representative 1:4 binary mixture supraball and supraball surface (left top; scale bars, 1 m and 100 nm, respectively) and lognormal size distribution of the melanin nanoparticles used to form the surface segregated shell after CREASE reconstruction (left bottom). VMD visualization of the central portion (3 m by 3 m by 10 m) of reconstructed 3D binary nanoparticle mixture assembly with the added melanin shell layer (right). Credit: Science Advances, doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adf2859 Structural color diversity with binary nanoparticle mixtures The materials scientists examined the composition and phase morphology of binary mixtures of absorbing and non-absorbing species of similar size to provide a method to regulate the prediction of structural colors upon which the relative sensitivity of structural color relied. This work produced a rich diversity of colors to show the need to know the relative composition of two nanoparticle types in a binary mixture alongside their phase segregation and the extent of mixing. To monitor this process, Heil et al. used an experimental and computational approach, which provided information about the internal morphologies of supraballs to predict each reflectance spectra and their resulting color. Optical modeling and color analysis comparison between experimental supraballs and FDTD calculations on the CREASE output structures. (A) Reflectance spectra (solid curve, experimental; dashed curve, computed), RGB color panel, CIE 1976 chromaticity values, and CIE 1931 chromaticity coordinates' comparisons for the 1:4 melanin:silica binary mixture supraball system. The quantitative difference between FDTD and experimental colors is given by a color difference (E) value that is ~0.9 times the average JND value. The black box in the inset of the optical micrograph of corresponding supraball represents the size of the area (3 m by 3 m) probed during optical measurements using microspectrophotometer. (B) Similar to (A) but for 1:1 melanin:silica binary mixture supraball system with a E value that is ~1.9 times the average JND value. (C) Similar to (A) but for 4:1 melanin:silica binary mixture supraball system with a E value that is ~1.4 times the average JND value. The lighter colored envelopes coming from the experimental and computational lines in the reflectance plots indicate the standard deviation (SD). The SD of the computational approach is from FDTD simulations of three independently generated CREASE structures, and the SD of the experimental measurements is from ~15 independent measurements of different supraballs. Credit: Science Advances, doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adf2859 CREASE and small-angle neutron scattering data The team conducted small-angle neutron scattering experiments for three different mixtures of nanoparticles and produced suspensions of micron-scale supraballs. They obtained morphological information of the interior of supraballs by isolating the scattering contribution of individual components within the structure to collect total scattering from the nanoparticles of interest. Using computational reverse-engineering analysis for the scattering experiments, the team analyzed scattering results from multicomponent structures to obtain 3D structural reconstruction and optical simulations of the products. The outcomes of the structural analysis based on computational reverse-engineering analysis for scattering experiments (CREASE), provided the coordinates of all nanoparticles within supraballs. This information was useful to calculate the scattering of light by employing the finite-difference-time domain method (FDTD). The combined CREASE-FDTD method represented a close structural match to experimental systems with optical modeling comparisons. Based on the remarkable agreement between these two combined methods, the team modeled optical properties underlying a complex binary mixture of nanoparticles to understand the impact of size dispersity and surface segregation on structural color. Optical modeling and color analysis comparison between FDTD calculations on the CREASE output structures with and without the melanin shell. (A to C) Reflectance spectra (solid curve, with melanin shell; dashed curve, without melanin shell), structure visualizations, CIE 1931 chromaticity coordinates' comparisons, and RGB color panel comparisons for the (A) 1:4, (B) 1:1, and (C) 4:1 melanin:silica binary mixture supraball systems. The lighter colored envelopes coming from with and without shell computed reflectance profiles in the reflectance plots indicate the SD. The SD is from FDTD simulations of three independently generated CREASE structures for each case. Credit: Science Advances, doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adf2859 Outlook In this way, Christian M. Heil and colleagues combined two key methods; computational reverse-engineering analysis for scattering experiment (CREASE) and the finite-difference-time domain method (FDTD) to provide a new platform to model structural colors of nanoparticle-based supra-assemblies. The bird-inspired structural colors formed non-iridescent nanoparticle assemblies, while those with short-range ordering produce non-iridescent colors. The team used two primary methods to determine the outcomes as a function of size, dispersity, phase morphology and strongly absorbing optical properties of the nanoparticles. This combined method produced reconstructed 3D structures of nanoparticle assemblies with scattering profiles that were a close match to those obtained via small-angle neutron scattering measurements. The combined method is well-suited for multiscale modeling to study optical properties of much larger assemblies of supraballs, such as packed films and pigment dispersions. This method can design programmable colors for practical applications in coatings, paints and cosmetics to help materials researchers better understand and design complex materials for applications across the electromagnetic spectra, while predicting material properties such as thermal, electrical conductivity and mechanical properties, which depend on varying structural compositions of the designed materials. 2023 Science X Network 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 When firms make their environmental policies public, they can get favorable media coverage only if their narrative carefully articulates signals of conformity (actions aimed at complying with existing norms) and distinctiveness (the adoption of a recognizably uncommon behavior). A paper by Anne Jacqueminet of Bocconi's Department of Management and Technology, Emanuele Bettinazzi of USI (Universita della Svizzera Italiana, Switzerland), Kerstin Neumann of Innsbruck University and Peter Snoeren of the University of Amsterdam proposes a framework that seeks to explain which combinations of signals can generate positive coverage and which ones fail to. In the background of how companies communicate their environmental policies lies what can be described as a trade-off, or at the very least some tension, between conformity and distinctiveness. This tension reflects the fact that companies struggle to describe themselves as being "conforming" and "distinctive" at the same time. Striking a balance between these two characteristics is therefore essential in order to be perceived by the media as convincingly committed to environmentally sound policies, but it can also prove quite challenging. The authors have identified three different types of signals on a scale of increasing credibility that hint at conformity and three that hint at distinctiveness. The former grouping (conformity signals) includes donations, associations, and certifications. The latter (distinctiveness signals) includes transformative actions (i.e., changes in products, processes, and structures aimed at reducing a firm's environmental footprint), inter-firm partnerships, and ratings. Their varied credibility is a consequence of their nature: the first and least credible element in each grouping is generated by the firm itself, the second by associating with other actors and the third and most credible is provided by external parties. When firms make their environmental policies public, they can get favorable media coverage only if their narrative carefully articulates signals of conformity (actions aimed at complying with existing norms) and distinctiveness (the adoption of a recognizably uncommon behavior).A paper by Anne Jacqueminet of Bocconi University's Department of Management and Technology, Emanuele Bettinazzi of USI (Universita della Svizzera Italiana, Switzerland), Kerstin Neumann of Innsbruck University and Peter Snoeren of the University of Amsterdam proposes a framework that seeks to explain which combinations of signals can generate positive coverage and which ones fail to. Credit: Bocconi University, Milan Considering that the media naturally see such signals in combination with each other and not separately, Jacqueminet and her colleagues wanted to understand which of these combinations are most likely to trigger positive reactions in media coverage. By processing data regarding electrical utilities between 2008 and 2013 and over 11,000 articles that dealt with their environmental initiatives, the authors identified three main favorable patterns. "Congruent signalers" are firms that display their environmental behavior in a consistent manner (i.e. conforming or distinctive) around a highly credible signal; "balancing signalers" couple a highly credible signal of conformity (certification) with lower credibility signals of distinctiveness (like transformative actions) or vice versa; and "muddling-through signalers" use a combination of less credible signals of both conformity and distinctiveness and can only hope to garner positive media coverage for a limited period. All other combinations, apparently, are either unconvincing or too confusing and inconsistent to attract admiration in the media. "We see that the presence or absence of highly credible, third-party signals within signal combinations determine the way the media perceive incongruence and, thus, the way they react to the level of conformity vs. distinctiveness represented in signal combinations," Anne Jacqueminet explains. "Highly credible, third-party signals seem to play a complex role in the media's assessment of environmental firm behavior. They are, from a firm's perspective, a double-edged sword with regard to the media coverage outcome, as their mere presence does not guarantee the positive media assessment that some may expect." "The key issue is whether the third-party signals deliver a single, congruent message. If this is not the case, and the media face a mix of highly credible signals with opposite messages of distinctiveness and conformity, they do not grant positive coverage." The work is published in the Academy of Management Journal. More information: Emanuele L. M. Bettinazzi et al, Media Coverage of Firms in the Presence of Multiple Signals: A Configurational Approach, Academy of Management Journal (2023). DOI: 10.5465/amj.2020.1791 Journal information: Academy of Management Journal Provided by Bocconi University 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: Greater mouse tailed bat- a major migrant in Israel. Credit: Jens Rydell For the first time ever, researchers can track the movements of bats with the help of a brand new algorithm utilizing radar technology, created by the University of Haifa and Tel Aviv University. A new study, published in Methods in Ecology and Evolution, reveals that bats migrate across the globe just like birds. However, their migration patterns are vastly different. Thanks to a new algorithm, now available to researchers worldwide, we can now monitor the movement of bats in the vicinity of wind turbines. In turn, this will allow for the development of new methods for protecting batswho currently die at a rate of up to ten times that of birds due to lack of available data surrounding their flight patterns. Ph.D. student and lead author of the study Yuval Werber explained, "The use of wind turbines is increasing worldwide. Their ability to operate in an environmentally friendly way depends on their impact on winged creatures." Until now, a knowledge gap surrounding the movements of bats near turbines has led to a lack of effective methods for lowering their high mortality rate. "People around the world can now track and monitor bat movements, thus saving many of them," continued Werber. In recent years, the use of radar to research airborne species has become increasingly common. Radar provides data on size, flight speed, body structure and pattern of wing flapping for flying animals. This data enables researchers to examine basic ecological issues at unprecedented scales. Data vital for infrastructure and development projects can now be provided to avoid interference with wildlife flight paths. A snapshot of the radar's screen. Red words are insect detections and green words are birds or bats. Credit: Yuval Werber What stopped radars from tracking bats before now? In order to develop an algorithm capable of identifying bats, there is a need for human observation. Since bats mainly fly at night and at high altitudes, it has been impossible to collect verified data about them. Without data, nobody could develop an algorithm capable of bat identification. As radars are often part of preliminary ecological surveys before major construction projects, many structures have been built without taking bats into account. So how did the researchers get around this issue? Using a network of bird radars across Israel, researchers identified a particular two-week period in June where there was no nighttime activity from migrating birds across the Hula Valley region in Israel. By process of elimination, any observation during this period that is not an insect is likely a bat. These bat observations were isolated according to activity times, the biomechanics of their wing movement, and the size of the creature. Then, by using the database from the already established bird radars, the researchers created an algorithm capable of distinguishing birds from bats. Validation tests for the algorithm showed an accuracy of over 90%. "Thanks to the algorithm, we now have a unique global database of 60,000 bat observations," noted the team. How does the new algorithm aid bat conservation efforts? With the help of the remarkable database, it is now certain that bat migration shows distinct differences from bird migration. Bats begin to migrate later than birds in both migration seasons. They also migrate at a much lower height (200-600 meters), compared to birds (between 100-1000 meters). "Millions of bats die each year due to the operation of wind turbines. Unfortunately, even non-polluting energy sources can have serious ecological ramifications," said Werber. "The use of our algorithm worldwide will facilitate study of the environmental factors affecting bats. We can further our knowledge of their behavior, and the possible impact of climate changes on numerous bat populations across the globe." More information: Yuval Werber et al, BATScan: A radar classification tool reveals largescale bat migration patterns, Methods in Ecology and Evolution (2023). DOI: 10.1111/2041-210X.14125 Journal information: Methods in Ecology and Evolution 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: Workers on scaffolding repaint the NASA logo near the top of the Vehicle Assembly Building at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., May 20, 2020. Credit: AP Photo/John Raoux, File NASA held its first public meeting on UFOs on Wednesday a year after launching a study into unexplained sightings and insisted it's not hiding anything. The space agency televised the four-hour hearing featuring an independent panel of experts who vowed to be transparent. The team includes 16 scientists and other experts selected by NASA including retired astronaut Scott Kelly, the first American to spend nearly a year in space. "I want to emphasize this loud and proud: There is absolutely no convincing evidence for extraterrestrial life associated with" unidentified objects, NASA's Dan Evans said after the meeting. Still, hundreds of questions from the public that poured in ahead of time were skeptical and veered into conspiracy theories. NASA launched the study to probe what it calls UAPsshort for unexplained anomalous phenomenain the sky, in space or under the sea. Optical illusions can explain some of this, said Kelly, a former Navy fighter pilot. He recalled a Tomcat flight off Virginia Beach years ago during which his radar intercept officer in the back seat was convinced they'd flown past a UFO. "It turns out it was Bart Simpson, a balloon," Kelly said. "And in my experience, the sensors kind of have the same issues as the people's eyeballs." Evans pointed out that the livestream of the meeting led to considerable trolling. That comes on top of "online abuse" directed toward several committee members. Harassment detracts from the scientific process and reinforces the stigma surrounding the topic, said Evans, adding that NASA security is dealing with it. "It's precisely this rigorous, evidence-based approach that allows one to separate the fact from fiction," he said. The group is looking at what unclassified information is available on the subject and how much more is needed to understand what's going on in the sky, according to astrophysicist David Spergel, the committee's chair who runs the Simons Foundation. No secret military data are included, such as anything surrounding the suspected spy balloons from China spotted flying over the U.S. earlier this year. The meeting was held at at NASA headquarters in Washington with the public taking part remotely. A final report is expected by the end of July. 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: A, left, c. 1200 New Zealand forest cover pre-human settlement; middle, c. 1840 post-Maori burning and pre-European settlement; right, c. 1990 post-European settlement (from Weeks et al. 2012 Weeks ES, Overton JM, Walker S. 2012. Estimating patterns of vulnerability in a changing landscape: a case study of New Zealand's indigenous grasslands. Environmental Conservation. 40:8495. DOI:10.1017/S0376892912000343.[Crossref], [Web of Science ] , [Google Scholar]). B, Threatened Environment Classification (from Cieraad et al. 2015 Cieraad E, Walker S, Price R, Barringer J. 2015. An updated assessment of indigenous cover remaining and legal protection in New Zealands land environments. New Zealand Journal of Ecology. 39:309315.[Web of Science ] , [Google Scholar]). C, Dryland zone shown in orange (from McGlone et al. 2017 McGlone MS, Richardson SJ, Burge OR, Perry GLW, Wilmshurst JM. 2017. Palynology and the ecology of the New Zealand conifers. Frontiers in Earth Science. 5:94. DOI:10.3389/feart.2017.00094.[Crossref], [Web of Science ] , [Google Scholar]; modified from Walker et al. 2009 Walker S, King N, Monks A, Williams S, Burrows L, Cieraad E, Meurk C, Overton JM, Price R, Smale M. 2009. Secondary woody vegetation patterns in New Zealands south island dryland zone. New Zealand Journal of Botany. 47:367393. DOI:10.1080/0028825x.2009.9672713.[Taylor & Francis Online], [Web of Science ] , [Google Scholar]). D, Ten environmental domains (from Overton and Leathwick 2001 Overton JM, Leathwick JR. 2001. Measuring environmental distinctiveness. Science for conservation 174. Wellington: Department of Conservation. 20 p. [Google Scholar]). Credit: New Zealand Journal of Botany (2023). DOI: 10.1080/0028825X.2023.2210289 It's time to relax the strict guidelines around ecosourcing seed for local genetic stock if we want to build resilience into our changing environment. This call comes from researchers at Manaaki WhenuaLandcare Research and University of Otago who have published research in the New Zealand Journal of Botany that suggests creating nine broad ecosourcing regions. They believe this will lead to improved restoration outcomes by increasing species and genetic diversity, mitigating the negative effects of inbreeding, and facilitating the genetic rescue of threatened species populations. When it comes to ecological restoration in New Zealand, the sourcing of seeds with a known wild origin and "local genetic stock" has been widely advocated and practiced for the past 50 years. This approach, known as ecosourcing, ensures that the seeds used for restoration come from nearby areas and maintain the genetic integrity of the species. The concept of ecosourcing was initially introduced by Eric Godley in 1972 to address concerns about planting species outside their natural geographical range, which could disrupt their evolutionary trajectories and lead to unsuccessful restoration outcomes due to poor environmental matches. "However, we believe that this approach has become overly restrictive," says lead author of the paper, Ecosourcing for resilience in a changing environment, Dr. Peter Heenan. "Ecosourcing at a strictly local scale limits genetic diversity, confines species to their historical ranges, and reduces conservation options for threatened species," he says. For instance, tree species in New Zealand, which are commonly used in restoration projects, have low genetic differentiation within populations and experience significant gene flow throughout their range. Therefore, the strict ecosourcing of tree seeds provides limited benefits. Dr. Heenan says it would be more beneficial to use larger ecosource areas instead of smaller ones, as it would help avoid inbreeding depression and allow for a better match with the local environment. More information: Peter B. Heenan et al, Ecosourcing for resilience in a changing environment, New Zealand Journal of Botany (2023). DOI: 10.1080/0028825X.2023.2210289 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: In this frame grab from video broadcast by SpaceX, recovery crews lift and secure the SpaceX Dragon capsule after it splashed down into the Gulf of Mexico, just off the Florida Panhandle, late Tuesday, May 30, 2023. The private flight carrying two Saudi astronauts and other passengers returned to Earth after a nine-day trip to the International Space Station. Credit: SpaceX via AP A private flight carrying two Saudi astronauts and other passengers returned to Earth late Tuesday night after a nine-day trip to the International Space Station. The SpaceX capsule carrying the four parachuted into the Gulf of Mexico, just off the Florida panhandle, 12 hours after undocking from the orbiting lab. The Saudi government picked up the multimillion-dollar tab for its two astronauts: Rayyanah Barnawi, a stem cell researcher who became the first Saudi woman in space; and fighter pilot Ali al-Qarni. Barnawi wiped away tears as she wrapped up her experiments and prepared to leave the space station. "Every story comes to an end and this is only the beginning of a new era for our country and our region," she said Monday. A Knoxville, Tennessee, businessman who started a race car team, John Shoffner, paid his own way to the space station. The ticket-holders were accompanied by retired NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, who now works for the Houston company that chartered the flight, Axiom Space. They rocketed into orbit last week on Axiom's second chartered flight to the space station. The company plans to send up more clients by year's end. In this image taken from video broadcast by SpaceX, crew members wave after the SpaceX Dragon capsule splashed down into the Gulf of Mexico, just off the Florida Panhandle, late Tuesday, May 30, 2023. The private flight carrying two Saudi astronauts and other passengers returned to Earth after a nine-day trip to the International Space Station. Credit: SpaceX via AP In this frame grab from thermal video broadcast by SpaceX, the SpaceX Dragon capsule is seen with parachutes deployed just before it splashes into the Gulf of Mexico, just off the Florida Panhandle, late Tuesday, May 30, 2023. The private flight carrying two Saudi astronauts and other passengers returned to Earth after a nine-day trip to the International Space Station. Credit: SpaceX via AP In this photo provided by NASA, Axiom Mission-2 and Expedition 69 crew members gather for a portrait together during dinner time aboard the International Space Station on Tuesday, May 23, 2023. At center front row is Expedition 69 crew member and United Arab Emirates astronaut Sultan Alneyadi flanked by, from left, Axiom Mission-2 crew members Commander Peggy Whitson, Mission Specialist Ali Alqarni, Pilot John Shoffner, and Mission Specialist Rayyanah Barnawi. In back from left are Expedition 69 crew members Roscosmos cosmonaut Dmitri Petelin, NASA astronaut Stephen Bowen, Roscosmos cosmonauts Andrey Fedyaev and Sergey Prokopyev, and NASA astronaut Woody Hoburg. Not pictured is NASA astronaut Frank Rubio. Credit: NASA via AP In this frame grab from video broadcast by SpaceX, the SpaceX Dragon capsule splashes into the Gulf of Mexico, just off the Florida Panhandle, late Tuesday, May 30, 2023. The private flight carrying two Saudi astronauts and other passengers returned to Earth after a nine-day trip to the International Space Station. Credit: SpaceX via AP In this frame grab from video broadcast by SpaceX, the SpaceX Dragon capsule is seen just before it splashes into the Gulf of Mexico, just off the Florida Panhandle, late Tuesday, May 30, 2023. The private flight carrying two Saudi astronauts and other passengers returned to Earth after a nine-day trip to the International Space Station. Credit: SpaceX via AP 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: A schematic diagram depicting the evolution of multilevel systems using an equivalent model. Credit: Zhou Yuan et al. A team led by Prof. Guo Guangcan from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) has made significant progress in the research of multilevel quantum system tunability. Collaborating with Professor Hu Xuedong from the University at Buffalo, State University of New York, and Origin Quantum Computing Company Limited, Professors Guo Guoping, Li Haiou and Gong Ming proposed a new type of quantum gates that can achieve noise-resistant qubit control by tuning the parameters of the driving field. Their work was published in Physical Review Applied. Quantum state manipulation is widely applied in quantum system like superconducting qubits and semiconductor quantum dots. A quantum system with simple energy levels is easy to manipulate, but interferences may occur in a more complicated multilevel system. For example, a two-qubit semiconductor spin system has a theoretical model of five energy levels. When driving such a system, different coherent processes within the system interfere with each other, making it difficult to analyze and control the evolution process. Currently, related research is mostly limited to various approximate conditions, which are unfavorable for further development of qubit manipulation. In order to study the effects of driving fields on multilevel systems, previous work has often relied on numerical simulations or reduced multi-level systems to two-level systems. However, these methods cannot comprehensively describe the complex phenomena in the experiments. Therefore, finding a suitable reference frame (or basis vector) can greatly simplify the problem. In this work, researchers coupled a shuttle state with all the other energy levels and achieved equivalent coupling between any two energy levels by tuning the amplitude and frequency of the shuttle state. This is possible because the effective model of their Floquet engineering can achieve any desired equivalent model by tuning these parameters. The results show that within the experimental parameter range, this approach can implement a wide range of couplings while maintaining high control speed. Using this method, the researchers theoretically demonstrated single-qubit and two-qubit gate operations with fidelities exceeding 99%. This model can even interpret some previously unexplained novel odd-even effects observed in experiments. In this scheme, the shuttle state plays a crucial role. It not only enables effective coupling between any two energy levels but also serves as a means of measurement. Researchers can conduct non-destructive measurements of quantum states by measuring the shuttle state. This theoretical proposal has significant applications, as the multi-energy level systems discussed in this study are found in almost all other physical systems, including atoms, ions, and superconducting qubits. By making appropriate improvements to the scheme and selecting suitable parameters, arbitrary gate control can be realized in other models. This new scheme provided fresh experimental insights for quantum gate operations in multi-level systems. More information: Yuan Zhou et al, Full Tunability and Quantum Coherent Dynamics of a Driven Multilevel System, Physical Review Applied (2023). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevApplied.19.044053 Provided by University of Science and Technology of China (CNN) A SpaceX capsule carrying a decorated former NASA astronaut and three paying customers returned home from the International Space Station Tuesday, concluding a historic weeklong mission for the crew. The Crew Dragon spacecraft departed the space station Tuesday morning and the crew spent nearly 12 hours in orbit as the capsule maneuvered back toward Earth. After a fiery reentry, the Crew Dragon and passengers made a safe splashdown off the coast of Panama City, Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico at 11:04 p.m. ET. This mission, dubbed Axiom Mission 2, or AX-2, launched from Florida on May 21. AX-2 was put together by the Houston-based company Axiom Space and marked the second all-private mission to the orbiting outpost, meaning solely commercial companies, rather than a government agency, have been leading the mission. This mission was also a milestone in the history of spaceflight as stem cell researcher Rayyanah Barnawi became the first woman from Saudi Arabia to travel to space. The AX-2 mission is one in a lineup of commercial missions designed to spur private sector participation in spaceflight particularly in low-Earth orbit, where the International Space Station orbits. Meet the AX-2 crew Former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, 63, led the AX-2 crew. Whitson, now an Axiom Space employee, also became the first woman to command a private spaceflight. Im really excited about returning to space, but even more excited about welcoming three new astronauts, Whitson said in a May 21 statement from the Crew Dragon spacecraft after launch. One of the three paying customers joining Whitson was John Shoffner, an American who made his fortune in the international telecom business and founded the hardware company Dura-Line Corp. Saudi Arabia also paid to fly two of its citizens: Barnawi and Ali AlQarni, a fighter pilot in the Royal Saudi Air Force. I am very honored and happy to be representing all the dreams and all the hopes of all the people in Saudi Arabia and all the women back home, Barnawi told reporters at a May 16 news conference. During the mission, Barnawi led stem cell research suited for the microgravity environment aboard the space station. The orbiting laboratory has long been a key venue for various scientific experiments, as the lack of gravity can give researchers a better fundamental understanding of the topic at hand. Barnawi and AlQarni also engaged in outreach projects, including testing out a kite in microgravity and capturing video for viewers back home. The AX-2 crew spent about eight days working alongside astronauts representing NASA, Russias Roscomos space agency and the United Arab Emirates Space Agency aboard the space station, though they operated on different schedules. The AX-2 crew worked through a lineup of more than 20 investigations and science projects including stem cell and other biomedical research. This mission marked Whitsons first return to space since 2017. Her extensive prior experience on the station made her a US record holder in 2017 for the most cumulative days logged in space, and she ranks eighth on the all-time list, according to NASA. Whitson has flown on a Russian Soyuz spacecraft as well as NASAs space shuttle, but she said preparing for this mission was obviously different because it involved training to operate SpaceXs Crew Dragon, which has only been flying astronauts since 2020. Thats been one of the biggest challenges for me is learning this particular spacecraft, she said. But Ive really enjoyed it. Barnawi and AlQarni are only the second and third Saudi nationals to travel to space. The first was Prince Sultan bin Salman, who spent about a week on a NASA space shuttle mission in 1985. Saudi Arabia has faced a barrage of criticism from the Biden administration and Congress over its human rights record, though the ties between the United States and Saudi Arabia remain strong. AlQarni said in a news conference earlier in May that he believes Arabs participation in spaceflight is a great opportunity that can inspire the region. The mission will hold a big message. We are holding hands, we are working together for the betterment of humanity and just trying to innovate, he said during a mid-May news briefing. The future of private spaceflight This mission isnt the first time individuals have paid their way to space. A company called Space Adventures brokered several such missions to the space station in the early 2000s, booking rides for wealthy thrill seekers on Russias Soyuz spacecraft. Axiom brought that business model to the United States, partnering with SpaceX to establish a framework for getting an array of customers to the space station. The companys first foray, Axiom Mission 1, or AX-1, launched in April 2022 and marked the first time private citizens traveled to the space station from US soil. Axioms goal is to make these missions routine, offering more opportunities for people who are not professional astronauts to experience spaceflight. During a prelaunch news conference, Derek Hassmann, chief of mission integration and operations at Axiom Space, said his company expects to see more customers sponsored by governments, similar to the AX-2 passengers from Saudi Arabia. Government astronauts are indeed a key piece of our business plan, he said. Early in the program it wasnt clear to us what the balance would be between private individuals and government astronauts since nothing like this had ever been done before. But its become clear to us that the government market is key, and were pursuing that actively. Axiom leadership envisions private spaceflight will continue even after the space station is retired, which NASA anticipates will happen in late 2030. Axiom is one of several US companies gunning to create a new, privately owned space station. Its an effort supported by NASA, which aims to bolster private sector participation closer to home so the agency can focus on investing in deep-space exploration. This story was first published on CNN.com, "SpaceX mission carrying former NASA astronaut, three paying customers returns from space station." 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: When X-rays (blue color) illuminate onto an iron atom (red ball at the center of the molecule), core level electrons are excited. X-ray excited electrons are then tunnel to the detector tip (gray) via overlapping atomic/molecular orbitals, which provide elemental and chemical information of the iron atom. Credit: Saw-Wai Hla A team of scientists from Ohio University, Argonne National Laboratory, the University of Illinois-Chicago, and others, led by Ohio University Professor of Physics, and Argonne National Laboratory scientist, Saw Wai Hla, have taken the world's first X-ray SIGNAL (or SIGNATURE) of just one atom. This groundbreaking achievement could revolutionize the way scientists detect the materials. Since its discovery by Roentgen in 1895, X-rays have been used everywhere, from medical examinations to security screenings in airports. Even Curiosity, NASA's Mars rover, is equipped with an X-ray device to examine the materials composition of the rocks in Mars. An important usage of X-rays in science is to identify the type of materials in a sample. Over the years, the quantity of materials in a sample required for X-ray detection has been greatly reduced thanks to the development of synchrotron X-rays sources and new instruments. To date, the smallest amount one can X-ray a sample is in attogram, that is about 10,000 atoms or more. This is due to the X-ray signal produced by an atom being extremely weak so that the conventional X-ray detectors cannot be used to detect it. According to Hla, it is a long-standing dream of scientists to X-ray just one atom, which is now being realized by the research team led by him. "Atoms can be routinely imaged with scanning probe microscopes, but without X-rays one cannot tell what they are made of. We can now detect exactly the type of a particular atom, one atom-at-a-time, and can simultaneously measure its chemical state," explained Hla, who is also the director of the Nanoscale and Quantum Phenomena Institute at Ohio University. "Once we are able to do that, we can trace the materials down to ultimate limit of just one atom. This will have a great impact on environmental and medical sciences and maybe even find a cure that can have a huge impact for humankind. This discovery will transform the world." Their paper, published in the scientific journal Nature on May 31, 2023, and gracing the cover of the print version of the scientific journal on June 1, 2023, details how Hla and several other physicists and chemists, including Ph.D. students at OHIO, used a purpose-built synchrotron X-ray instrument at the XTIP beamline of Advanced Photon Source and the Center for Nanoscale Materials at Argonne National Laboratory. For demonstration, the team chose an iron atom and a terbium atom, both inserted in respective molecular hosts. To detect X-ray signal of one atom, the research team supplemented conventional detectors in X-rays with a specialized detector made of a sharp metal tip positioned at extreme proximity to the sample to collect X-ray excited electronsa technique known as synchrotron X-ray scanning tunneling microscopy or SX-STM. X-ray spectroscopy in SX-STM is triggered by photoabsorption of core level electrons, which constitutes elemental fingerprints and is effective in identifying the elemental type of the materials directly. According to Hla, the spectrums are like fingerprints, each one being unique and able to detect exactly what it is. "The technique used, and concept proven in this study, broke new ground in X-ray science and nanoscale studies," said Tolulope Michael Ajayi, who is the first author of the paper and doing this work as part of his Ph.D. thesis. "More so, using X-rays to detect and characterize individual atoms could revolutionize research and give birth to new technologies in areas such as quantum information and the detection of trace elements in environmental and medical research, to name a few. This achievement also opens the road for advanced materials science instrumentation." (Left) An image of a ring shaped supramolecule where only one Fe atom is present in the entire ring. (Right) X-ray signature of just one Fe atom. Credit: Saw-Wai Hla For the last 12 years, Hla has been involved in the development of an SX-STM instrument and its measurement methods together with Volker Rose, a scientist at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory. "I have been able to successfully supervise four OHIO graduate students for their Ph.D. theses related to SX-STM method development over a 12-year period. We have come a long way to achieve the detection of a single atom X-ray signature," Hla said. Hla's study is focused on nano and quantum sciences with a particular emphasis on understanding materials' chemical and physical properties at the fundamental levelon an individual atom basis. In addition to achieving X-ray signature of one atom, the team's key goal was to use this technique to investigate the environmental effect on a single rare-earth atom. "We have detected the chemical states of individual atoms as well," Hla explained. "By comparing the chemical states of an iron atom and a terbium atom inside respective molecular hosts, we find that the terbium atom, a rare-earth metal, is rather isolated and does not change its chemical state while the iron atom strongly interacts with its surrounding." Many rare-earth materials are used in everyday devices, such as cell phones, computers and televisions, to name a few, and are extremely important in creating and advancing technology. Through this discovery, scientists can now identify not only the type of element but its chemical state as well, which will allow them to better manipulate the atoms inside different materials hosts to meet the ever-changing needs in various fields. Moreover, they have also developed a new method called "X-ray excited resonance tunneling or X-ERT" that allows them to detect how orbitals of a single molecule orient on a material surface using synchrotron X-rays. "This achievement connects synchrotron X-rays with quantum tunneling process to detect X-ray signature of an individual atom and opens many exciting research directions including the research on quantum and spin (magnetic) properties of just one atom using synchrotron X-rays," Hla said. In addition to Ajayi, several other OHIO graduate students including current Ph.D. students Sineth Premarathna in Physics and Xinyue Cheng in Chemistry, as well as Ph.D. in Physics alumni Sanjoy Sarkar, Shaoze Wang, Kyaw Zin Latt, Tomas Rojas, and Anh T. Ngo, currently an Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of Illinois-Chicago, were involved in this research. College of Arts and Sciences Roenigk Chair and Professor of Chemistry Eric Masson designed and synthesized the rare earth molecule used in this study. Going forward, Hla and his research team will continue to use X-rays to detect properties of just one atom and find ways to further revolutionize their applications for use in gathering critical materials research and more. More information: Saw-Wai Hla, Characterization of just one atom using synchrotron X-rays, Nature (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06011-w. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06011-w Journal information: Nature 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 Monash University study has found systematic racism within Australia's justice system is linked to 151 Indigenous women's deaths, prompting calls for greater accountability of authorities in responding to domestic and family violence. The article, Indigenous women and intimate partner homicide in Australia: confronting the impunity of policing failures, has been published in Current Issues in Criminal Justice and reveals that Indigenous women are more likely to experience violence than any other Australians. Monash Indigenous Studies Centre Director Professor Kyllie Cripps, a proud Palawa woman and study lead, said the findings highlight the vulnerability of Indigenous women to intimate partner homicides, with most of the 151 deaths over 20 years entirely preventable. "This study reveals that in almost all instances Indigenous women experiencing intimate partner violence have engaged a range of services or responses to help them in their situations. The most significant being our first responderspolice," Professor Cripps said. "It takes immense courage for our women to reach out for support, it is incumbent upon our first responders, indeed all of us with the capacity to support victim survivors, to genuinely hear them, and to be responsive in ways that respect their right to life, to be safe and to be treated with dignity." The study examined policing practices across Australia and found them to be underpinned by systematic racism that undermined their responsiveness to intimate partner violence. This highlights the need for greater accountability of law enforcement to help stamp out systematic racism and to better respond to the needs of Aboriginal women. Almost two-thirds of the Indigenous women examined in the study died from blunt force trauma and prolonged assaults. The report found the offenders brutally kicked, punched, hit and stomped on the Indigenous women, using whatever else was at their disposal including rocks, pieces of furniture, power cords to inflict harm. The study held that preventing the deaths of Indigenous women from intimate partner violence is only possible if systems are in place to address and prioritize their safety. Professor Cripps said the justice system failed Indigenous women at intersections with the law, policy and practice, and arguably contributed to the deaths of Indigenous women. "The stories in this paper highlight that at every stage of policing practice, there are opportunities for improvement. While some officers are already doing good work, it needs to be done more consistently as our women's lives are put at significant risk," she said. Almost 48% of the deaths examined in this study occurred within significant city limits which could have allowed for greater access to emergency and police services compared to the other 53.3% of regional and remote settings where services are more limited. The study findings align with the comments of a coroner, who oversaw 17.9% of the examined cases, labeling the actions of police as akin to "systematic racism" or at the very least, "lazy policing." Seventy-two percent of the women were killed by their de facto/husband, almost 16% died at the hands of boyfriends and 12% killed by ex- and other intimate partners. Alcohol was involved in 69.5% of the deaths examined in this study. This is consistent with broader Australian population data that reports more than 60% of male homicide offenders who have killed a female intimate partner have engaged in problematic drug and/or alcohol use in the lead-up to or at the time of the homicide. The study calls for sustainable and systematic reform to improve training, accountability processes and practices, and ongoing commitments to examine each and every death that involves Indigenous women and girls through domestic and family violence death reviews that include Indigenous experts as part of that process. This article examined 151 coronial court investigations and inquests across Australia from 2000 to 2020, grouped into themes including the actions of police, who are first responders. More information: Kyllie Cripps, Indigenous women and intimate partner homicide in Australia: confronting the impunity of policing failures, Current Issues in Criminal Justice (2023). DOI: 10.1080/10345329.2023.2205625 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: Tantalum oxide (TaO x ) being characterized using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Credit: Brookhaven National Laboratory Whether it's baking a cake, building a house, or developing a quantum device, the quality of the end product significantly depends on its ingredients or base materials. Researchers working to improve the performance of superconducting qubits, the foundation of quantum computers, have been experimenting using different base materials in an effort to increase the coherent lifetimes of qubits. The coherence time is a measure of how long a qubit retains quantum information, and thus a primary measure of performance. Recently, scientists discovered that using tantalum in superconducting qubits makes them perform better, but no one has been able to determine whyuntil now. Scientists from the Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN), the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II), the Co-design Center for Quantum Advantage (C2QA), and Princeton University investigated the fundamental reasons that these qubits perform better by decoding the chemical profile of tantalum. The results of this work, which were recently published in the journal Advanced Science, will provide key knowledge for designing even better qubits in the future. CFN and NSLS-II are U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science User Facilities at DOE's Brookhaven National Laboratory. C2QA is a Brookhaven-led national quantum information science research center, of which Princeton University is a key partner. Finding the right ingredient Tantalum is a unique and versatile metal. It's dense, hard, and easy to work with. Tantalum also has a high melting point and is resistant to corrosion, making it useful in many commercial applications. In addition, tantalum is a superconductor, which means it has no electrical resistance when cooled to sufficiently low temperatures, and consequently can carry current without any energy loss. Tantalum-based superconducting qubits have demonstrated record-long lifetimes of more than half a millisecond. That is five times longer than the lifetimes of qubits made with niobium and aluminum, which are currently deployed in large-scale quantum processors. These properties make tantalum an excellent candidate material for building better qubits. Still, the goal of improving superconducting quantum computers has been hindered by a lack of understanding as to what is limiting qubit lifetimes, a process known as decoherence. Noise and microscopic sources of dielectric loss are generally thought to contribute; however, scientists are unsure exactly why and how. "The work in this paper is one of two parallel studies aiming to address a grand challenge in qubit fabrication," explained Nathalie de Leon, an associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at Princeton University and the materials thrust leader for C2QA. "Nobody has proposed a microscopic, atomistic model for loss that explains all the observed behavior and then was able to show that their model limits a particular device. This requires measurement techniques that are precise and quantitative, as well as sophisticated data analysis." Surprising results To get a better picture of the source of qubit decoherence, scientists at Princeton and CFN grew and chemically processed tantalum films on sapphire substrates. They then took these samples to the Spectroscopy Soft and Tender Beamlines (SST-1 and SST-2) at NSLS-II to study the tantalum oxide that formed on the surface using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). XPS uses X-rays to kick electrons out of the sample and provides clues about the chemical properties and electronic state of atoms near the sample surface. The scientists hypothesized that the thickness and chemical nature of this tantalum oxide layer played a role in determining the qubit coherence, as tantalum has a thinner oxide layer compared to the niobium more typically used in qubits. "We measured these materials at the beamlines in order to better understand what was happening," explained Andrew Walter, a lead beamline scientist in NSLS-II's soft X-ray scattering & spectroscopy program. "There was an assumption that the tantalum oxide layer was fairly uniform, but our measurements showed that it's not uniform at all. It's always more interesting when you uncover an answer you don't expect, because that's when you learn something." The team found several different kinds of tantalum oxides at the surface of the tantalum, which has prompted a new set of questions on the path to creating better superconducting qubits. Can these interfaces be modified to improve overall device performance, and which modifications would provide the most benefit? What kinds of surface treatments can be used to minimize loss? Embodying the spirit of codesign "It was inspiring to see experts of very different backgrounds coming together to solve a common problem," said Mingzhao Liu, a materials scientist at CFN and the materials subthrust leader in C2QA. "This was a highly collaborative effort, pooling together the facilities, resources, and expertise shared between all of our facilities. From a materials science standpoint, it was exciting to create these samples and be an integral part of this research." Walter said, "Work like this speaks to the way C2QA was built. The electrical engineers from Princeton University contributed a lot to device management, design, data analysis, and testing. The materials group at CFN grew and processed samples and materials. My group at NSLS-II characterized these materials and their electronic properties." Having these specialized groups come together not only made the study move smoothly and more efficiently, but it gave the scientists an understanding of their work in a larger context. Students and postdocs were able to get invaluable experience in several different areas and contribute to this research in meaningful ways. "Sometimes, when materials scientists work with physicists, they'll hand off their materials and wait to hear back regarding results," said de Leon, "but our team was working hand-in-hand, developing new methods along the way that could be broadly used at the beamline going forward." More information: Russell A. McLellan et al, Chemical Profiles of the Oxides on Tantalum in State of the Art Superconducting Circuits, Advanced Science (2023). DOI: 10.1002/advs.202300921 Journal information: Advanced Science 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: Inefficient resources in the child welfare sphere havent been helped by technological advances. Credit: Shutterstock In 1921, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Christian Lous Lange stated: "Technology is a useful servant but a dangerous master." A century laterin a digital landscape where technology giants strive to "move fast and break things," according to Meta's Mark Zuckerbergwe see an acceleration in the use of technology to address the most human of problems, including in the areas of homelessness and child welfare. In our digital era of public management, firmly held convictions about how technology can improve the delivery of public services may compel governments and policymakers to embrace new tools without evidence and enough reflection on the challenges they can cause. For two years, our research team at Trent University has been speaking with people working in homeless-serving and child welfare organizations in Ontario to learn how they experience Canada's digital turn in service delivery. Our aim is to foster critical engagement with new technologies in support of client welfare. Our work has uncovered how a focus on technological fixes can serve to obscure the root causes of social issues. We've also learned the technological solutions themselves often fail to improve the efficacy of public sector work. The problem Homelessness affects more than 235,000 people in Canada each year, and there are over 350,000 children and youth across Canada who are currently involved with child welfare services. These challenges result from structural factors like poverty and limited affordable housing; the ongoing impacts of colonization; system failures as people leave institutions (including jails, hospitals or foster care/group homes) and experience a lack of public supports; and personal circumstances like physical or mental health conditions, domestic violence or individual crises. To be effective, responses to homelessness and child welfare concerns must therefore address a decades-old erosion of affordable housing, social services and mental/physical health supports while incorporating a decolonial lens. The solution The 2019 federal homelessness strategy, Reaching Home, requires funded communities to adopt what it calls a Coordinated Access approach to combatting homelessness. As of last year, the province of Ontario has also directed all service managers to implement what's known as a By-Name List, compiling real-time information about every person experiencing homelessness in their community. Starting in 2014, Ontario's child welfare system committed $122 million to develop the Child Protection Information Network (CPIN), a digital database that all children's aid societies were expected to adopt to organize their data practices. Like a By-Name List, CPIN is supposed to provide real-time information on families and youth across children's aid societies in a standardized form. Both Coordinated Access and CPIN rely on standardized assessment tools and centralized digital information management systems to rationalize how resources are allocated and deliver services. Reframing the problem Technical solutions like co-ordinated access systems and CPIN are presented as a way to improve economic oversight and government accountability. The emphasis on data sharing, co-ordination, objective assessments and prioritization suggests "the problem" is in social services due to a lack of organization, worker bias, regulatory compliance failures, bureaucratic sluggishness and inequitable/inefficient distribution of resources. But what if this characterization is wrong? None of the aforementioned objectives of co-ordinated access systems or CPIN in and of themselves address the scarcity of resources and the systematic erosion of the public safety net. In fact, when it comes to a dearth of resources, Employment and Social Development Canada explains that if Coordinated Access is "implemented successfully, communities will be able to explain how clients are prioritized for limited resources." However, in both child welfare and homeless-serving organizations, insufficient resources have remained so, and the government's technology and managerial promises have proven misleading. The implications The organizational adjustment to co-ordinated systems is massive. As the Ontario Association of Children's Aid Societies states: "CPIN requires every department in an agency to move to new business processes that are consistent across the province." Adopting Coordinated Access and maintaining a By-Name List has also proven to be a complex endeavour for service providers. Clients and workers in child welfare and homeless-serving organizations have been telling us that the new systems are cumbersome, time-consuming, resource-intensive and have yet to deliver on their promises. As one frontline worker explained: "You're just constantly clicking, constantly repeating yourself. And important information isn't easy to find." Increasingly, time and resources are being directed towards maintaining and navigating infrastructure and measuring compliance, not improving client well-being or service quality. From our interviews, we learned that only 14 percent of workers' requests to improve CPIN's ability to support client well-being or service quality have been instituted since its inception, partially because programmers are required to prioritize requests by government to align the system with legislative changes. And in Peterborough, Ont.the location of our lab and an early adopter of the By-Name Listfewer than five percent of people on the list were offered housing through it in 2022. Looking ahead While technology can be a useful tool, it can also divert funding and attention from the root causes of the issues it aims to address. Instead of focusing on resource shortages, professional support, relationality and human well-being, Coordinated Access and CPIN rely on compliance, efficiency and a range of technical fixes as solutions. In our digital era of public management, innovative approaches can be tempting to policymakers who want to do more with scarce resources. But as we work to support Canada's fraying social safety net, we need to slow down and fix things by focusing less on new technologies and more on the people entwined in these systems, both workers and clients. Ending homelessness and ensuring child and family well-being will require a commitment to decolonization and investments in housing, services and other forms of direct support. Technological solutions alone cannot deliver on these goals; worse, they may even detract from them. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. By Berns Komba Lebbie Dear Mama Salone, Today is the 27th April, 2023. Sixty-two years exact, it could be recalled that, on this day in 1961, few of your politically hungry children chose to ask for a hand on the wheel of leadership from the white-man. It has been 62 years on since then, and the rest is part of the told and untold stories. You see, today is NOT your birthday. Today is just a remarkable day to reminiscence over. For, we all know that, you have been in existence since creation. The first Portuguese white-man who claim to have discovered you in 1462, narrated his encounter with the land and its people already in existence and he called you Serra Lyoa (Lion Mountain). But today is also a significant day in your existence. Within those sixty-two years of our so called independence, it is needless to tell you what your children have been through. The entire journey on the new political trajectory that our forefathers chose for us, has been dark and gloomy - largely full of tears, bitterness and sombre. The only celebration that came after that controversial decision was short-lived maybe just a day long. The celebration lasted just on that same day. Our parents and grandparents celebrated because they were promised many things that turned out to be lies, and those lies have forever lived with us. On that faithful day, your children were told that the independence was going to bring them everlasting freedom freedom from the white-mans dictate, from political interference of the British and the Americans, from the control of the white-man over our natural resources, freedom from the shackles of poverty, from the use of the white-mans money, from the embarrassment of begging from the white-man, from needing to travel to the white-mans country to be re-enslaved, and from many, many things which have now become to us mere fantasies. A very little or none of those promises have been fulfilled. Sixty-two years on, we have merely stagnated or comparatively move backward instead. When the white-man was leaving, our educational system was better. We had done so well under the white-mans rule that we were compared to the capital of Greece, Anthem fondly called the Anthem of West Africa - because those who wanted knowledge in West Africa, would have to come to our schools and to our Fourah Bay College to get educated. We could produce scholars capable of competing for international jobs. Unfortunately, today, we have recycled our education system without injecting an iota of innovation. We have dramatically fallen from the pinnacle of the Anthem of West Africa to the least performing Western African State in the regional examinations. Our universities keep producing graduates that wont get the jobs they trained for and it seems nobody want them outside of your territory, Mama. Because none, including myself, can speak any other international language. The few who does, may have learnt other international languages outside your jurisdiction, in the neighbouring francophone country or those beyond. Our engineers leave our universities searching for clerical jobs in local councils or in other government offices, instead of creating something. We cannot even produced sufficient medical doctors, and the few we have, are either finding their ways out or are waiting for the next zoom meeting with a white-man before they can administer drugs to the dying sick person on their hospital bed. Few years ago, sadly, one of those doctors operated a woman and forgot a pair of scissors in her womb. Scan results showed the piece of metal in her womb, but unfortunately, no one was ready enough to correct that error, and sadly, she died after two years. We have seen the worse since we chose to lead ourselves, Mama among them, we can recount on a long list of many dreadful diseases from which many of your children died painful deaths. We had ruff-neck, in the 90s that killed people by twisting their head round their neck, we had Lassa fever killing people from extremely high fever in their marrows which they say we got from rats. Then we had the most-dreadful one - Ebola, which kills from excessive bleeding. We were not also saved from the latest COVID19. We lost a considerable number of our relatives from that too. We could have barely survived without the white-mans vaccine. In the fight to save lives from those breakouts, we lost a significant number of our trained medical practitioners. Our engineers we train cannot produce anything. We import almost everything that is not natural. But even in the midst of the abundance of six months rainy season, we have imported drinking water to compete with our local brands and many would prefer the imported brands in ostentatious ceremonies. We have wistfully destroyed our environment. The once green scenery of the Peninsula Mountain, has now become an eyesore. And we had to pay for our recklessness dearly in 2017 when we had a devastating mudslide that killed close to a thousand people. But our soil is so fertile that seeds can grow in a thin layer of soil sliding on rocks. Yet the 2022 Global Hunger Index shows that we are among the worlds 10 hungriest countries. Rice is our staple food, and we are importing that from Pakistan, India or China without the ability to grow the sufficient amount we need to feed ourselves. Without the Chines who now have three toll gates along the only entrance into our capital city from the inter-lands of the country, our roads could have been the worst. Two important bridges we were supposed to have built years ago, were never done until the European Union helped us with the funds. Many roads which we have generally described as feeder-roads had tarmac at the time we chose to lead ourselves. Unfortunately, those roads have now become so deplorable that the users often refer to them as death traps. Those who chose our independence promised to lead us with compassion as one of theirs. They promised a fair legal system that would guarantee the rights and freedom of all. They said no more would one person group of people would be more equal than others. But, when we last checked our legal system, unfortunately, your children are not happy. For us to trust them with leadership, they said they wouldnt have the need to steal from us. They argued that if anyone does, the wealth would eventually circulate among us, because, they said, they would have no need to trust the white-man with our money and resources. Unfortunately, they were lying. The Swiss and many banks of the white-man are filled with undocumented and unaccounted wealth hidden there by those same leaders. The worse that couldnt have happened under the white-man, have now met us, Mama. So severe that many of our siblings have had the urge to seek for asylum in the embassies of the same white-man whom they told us, were bad. As it stands now, we all have that active or passive desire of leaving you, Mama. We all want to go to the white-mans country. In fact, on a daily basis, our sisters and brothers are already leaving with the desire to be enslaved in the white-mans country even without the entry permit into the white-mans country. They chose death on the high seas and on the scorching deserts over living here with us, Mama. But Mama we are not entirely despaired. We still have hope that, among us here, some people have the good heart to turn things over. At some point, we became so vexed that we chose war over peace. We fought for ten odd years and meted the most gruesome atrocities on our fellow humans. Later, we came back to our senses and chose peace. With the help of the same white-man, we have reorganized ourselves and conducted four successful democratic elections. Those elections were not as fair as we would approve, but they didnt break us apart beyond reconciliation. In this same year, just about two months from now, we will be holding another election. Towards that, we have already heard slogans some have even professed the need to take us back to that single day when we ever celebrated the day of 27th April, 1961. Others have merged, they say, for the good of the land. We know they are lying, we know they just want to win our votes, but Mama, we are already in this irreversible state, so we just have to pretend to trust them. We just dont have any choice because the options are very few they are just two and we have tried and tested both unfortunately, we are still here, in a worst state that we could imagine. So, Mama, we leave everything to you now. We call on you to breed a generation of leaders who would not keep embarrassing us. We desire sincerity and true passion for ourselves and we ask this from God through the names of our Lord Jesus and our Holy Prophet Muhamad (SAW). Copyright 2023 Politico (03/05/23) By Nasratu Kargbo Following heavy persuasion from some members of Parliament and the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, the Acting Speaker of Parliament Segepoh Solomon Thomas has legally passed into law the ban on corporal punishment in schools but was quick to state that if it does not work, it will be amended. Segepoh who was of the opinion that the punishment was necessary to serve as a way of disciplining children was on the 24th of April 2023 persuaded to change his mind, and he then asked other MPs that they give it a try and see whether it works. The Acting Speaker had earlier advocated that corporal punishment not be totally banned, suggesting they could find ways of limiting this form of punishment instead of totaling banning it. He earlier explained that in the West where such laws are in existence, children speak to their parents in any manner they deemed fit, further stating that they went through corporal punishment which is said to be part of the African culture, and ended up being disciplined. Some MPs were against the absolute removal of corporal punishment, arguing it can be done under the supervision of the head teacher or a senior teacher. Those who were of the notion that the punishment be totally banned in schools stated that there are no statistics that can show that corporal punishment has helped children turn out great, but is rather a form of degrading school children. They mentioned that there are other forms of discipline highlighted in the bill. The Minister of MBSSE Dr. David Moinina Sengeh stated that there have been several studies that indicate that corporal punishment is worse for society. He further stated that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission had requested that the nation weed out such forms of punishment from schools for the sake of peace, noting that it was linked to the violence that occurred. He said that in schools where the act has been banned, children behave better, whereas, in schools where teachers are given the power to beat children, it discourages the kids from going to school. Sengeh mentioned that in Clause 74 other forms of punishment have been provided, stating that suspension, and expulsion amongst others can be used by the school administration to discipline the children. He believes that the measures in Clauses 74 and 75 are enough to ensure that the children have discipline and morality. Clause 74 of the bill speaks of indiscipline, which he says constitutes a violation of the schools regulations. Clause 75 (1) of the bill reads The head of a school may, after a fair hearing by a competent body suspend a pupil or teacher from attending the school for a period not exceeding 2 weeks. Other paragraphs explained the procedures for suspension. Copyright 2023 Politico (03/05/23) ATLANTIC CITY Five local high school students who are about to embark on a city-sponsored trip to South Africa said Wednesday they look forward to how it will transform them. I think Ill come back as a changed person, Makiyah Coppin, a sophomore at the Atlantic County Institute of Technology in Mays Landing, said about the two-week adventure that starts Friday. It was a theme echoed by the other students, who stressed how grateful they were for such a lifechanging opportunity. In their winning essays, the students said they focused on their families and their relationship to the city. I also ... mentioned how as an Asian man I lost my culture in the past, said Atlantic City High School junior Tim Tran. I want to reignite it by learning a whole other culture from a different continent. He said he included in his essay his love of nature and the sciences, and what he can learn about both from the trip. I wrote more about how in America people are too comfortable ... in other countries people dont have what we have, in rights and privileges, Atlantic City High School junior William Harris said. Evan Johnson, also an ACHS junior, said he wrote about his personal traits and how he loves teaching kids to swim. Also chosen for the trip was Melanie Victoria Hernandez-DiDomenico, a junior at ACIT, who was unable to attend Wednesdays news conference due to a conflict with school testing. These are future leaders of our great city, Mayor Marty Small Sr. said. Look at the diversity. We have two females, three males, one Hispanic, African Americans and a Vietnamese. The trip is organized by A Leadership Journey, a nonprofit founded by Atlantic City native Akeem Lloyd. City Council is providing $35,000 in American Rescue Plan funds for the two-week trip for the five students and two city youth services staff members. The students were chosen from about 70 high school age applicants who wrote essays and engaged in an interview process, said city Director of Youth Services Christina Noble. We were looking for authenticity and a compelling story, Noble said of how the winners were chosen by a panel of youth services workers. We did a blind reading. We didnt know names, nationalities or grades. They also didnt look at grade point averages but wanted to provide the opportunity to everyone. We did make sure they were in good enough standing the trip would not be detrimental (to their education), Noble said, since they will be taking two weeks away from school. AtlantiCare highlights health equity efforts at DEI summit ATLANTIC CITY With the past several years bringing health inequities to the forefront, the Noble and Youth Services Program Specialist Elizabeth Trigg will accompany the students on a trip that will focus on sharing information on social justice issues with other students in the African nation. They were required to do research prior to the trip, Noble said, so they can discuss issues such as ageism, sexism and racism while there. Small said he is exploring making city-funded trips an annual event. The Youth Services Office just celebrated its one-year anniversary, Noble said. To be able to have an opportunity like this is such an amazing thing, she said. A trip like this could be a catalyst for students to pivot their lives. Coppin said her essay focused on her family. I mentioned my grandmom and grandfather always wanted to travel to South Africa, Coppin said, close to tears. When we were talking about it she cried. Lloyd has said he started A Leadership Journey seven years ago to help young people participate in mental and emotional health activities and wellness education, with a focus on learning more about social justice. NJ Transit begins pilot ticket-purchasing program for Atlantic City trains NJ Transit is launching a pilot program for the Atlantic City Rail Line allowing riders to p We want them to understand that young people have always been part of social movements, Lloyd said, and how their voice can make a difference in their community and the world at large. Lloyd was one of my kids at the Boys & Girls Club in the early 2000s and is now a motivational speaker based out of South Carolina, Small has said. The trip runs from June 2 to 18. For more information, visit aleadershipjourney.org. ATLANTIC CITY With the past several years bringing health inequities to the forefront, there is a push among local health care companies to connect marginalized communities with more employment opportunities and resources. To that end, AtlantiCare hosted a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion summit last week at its Medical Arts Pavilion. The summit reviewed AtlantiCares DEI initiatives and its partnerships with local and state entities while discussing what officials described as a pressing need to make health care more equitable in South Jersey. Christian Ragland, AtlantiCare's assistant vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion, said DEI efforts have long been a priority for AtlantiCare and that making a comfortable atmosphere for health care providers and patients from different communities is critical to patient health. We know that there is, I would say, an exponential impact of when our staff, our providers, everyone who works within AtlantiCare knows that they are in an inclusive environment, Ragland said. We know that directly impacts patient care. State Chief Diversity Officer Candice Alfonso said AtlantiCares DEI initiatives complemented efforts under the Murphy administration to redress health inequity, such as the Task Force on Racial and Health Disparities, which was convened to investigate the disparate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; and recent workforce-diversity efforts. Its data and really understanding what we need to know in terms of really addressing the root causes of health disparities and really trying to make inroads in the community, Alfonso said. I just applaud what AtlantiCare is doing and really taking the lead and really trying to make a change. Ragland highlighted recent efforts to address health issues that pertain to certain communities. He said AtlantiCare has also worked with officials in Atlantic City and Pleasantville to address two major health care issues in their communities, diabetes and hypertension. These partnerships, Ragland said, help find new ways to connect with people who have previously been underserved by the health care industry. That the summit was held at the Medical Arts Pavilion served to underscore new DEI initiatives. Ragland said the pavilion houses an AtlantiCare Safe Beginnings program that seeks to improve prenatal and postnatal, as well as prepartum and postpartum, care. Mayor Marty Small Sr. celebrated the pavilion and thanked the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority for supporting efforts to help fund care for pregnant women and mothers. AtlantiCare stepped up and made this facility an essential part of decreasing the infant-mortality rate with the great programs and services that we have out of this building for women, Small said. AtlantiCare has also used partnerships with public officials to organize public health fairs to teach about important medical issues facing residents and help them access to health care resources. In April, AtlantiCare hosted a community health fair at the Pleasantville Housing Authority residential building. The AtlantiCare Legacy employee resource group, a team whose mission is to empower our workplace and community to embrace diversity and promote healthy living, helped organized the April event. Robin DeShields, co-chair of the Legacy group, said the purpose of the event was to address disparities in health care outcomes between different communities. Our goal is just to get out there and bridge that health-equity gap and provide as much service as we can to this community, DeShields said. Its a wonderful opportunity to serve the community, it really is, and we absolutely enjoy it. Being able to come back in my own community and being able to help the patients and people of the community is very rewarding, added AtlantiCare pharmacist and city resident Marie DeBerry-Butler, who was speaking with a patient in Spanish before her interview. Having that connection with someone that speaks the same language, its very helpful because you can break down and understand what theyre going through a little bit better and you can assist them a little bit more directly." The summit also focused on AtlantiCares efforts to promote care for the LGBTQ community. Kirby Delgado, AtlantiCare's LGBTQ+ support services navigator, spoke about the new AtlantiCare LGBTQ+ Health Center, which opened in the city about six months ago. Delgado said such a clinic, where LGBTQ patients could feel understood, had long been a need in the community. The truth of the matter is weve always had LGBTQ patients here, especially in South Jersey, Delgado said. Theres a lot of discrimination that comes with being trans, with being LGBTQ. Egg Harbor Township crash injures dirt bike rider EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP A dirt bike rider suffered a leg injury when he collided with a car Su There was a particular need, Delgado said, among transgender patients who comprise about two-fifths of all AtlantiCare LGBTQ clinic patients and whose needs have too often been neglected by medical professionals. He said many clinics were too narrowly focused on care for HIV/AIDS and did not tend to issues such as treatment for patients who had recently undergone gender affirmation surgery. At the end of the day, everybody deserves good health quality, everybody deserves good health care, Delgado said. As Ive gotten to know these patients, a lot of the trials and tribulations that they face is that a lot of these providers that theyve been with in the past dont know too much about trans health. They dont know too much about just LGBTQ health in general. Ragland said a key aspect of DEI efforts at AtlantiCare is workforce development, which involves recruiting new hires from underserved communities. He said AtlantiCare works with local governments, school districts and civic groups to recruit potential employees who can diversify its workforce. He said creating a diverse workforce helped ensure that health care providers and other staff better understand the needs facing different communities. We didnt wait for candidates to come for us, we went to the candidates in their environment in their community, Ragland said. And thats how we can work with dismantling disparities that are even just geared towards workforce. Maseeha Khan, an Atlantic City High School senior, said at the summit that she had taken a job as a patient access associate at AtlantiCare. She said she had ambitions of becoming a psychologist. Its a very amazing opportunity, Khan said. AtlantiCare also has a partnership with the Ideal Institute of Technology. Ragland said AtlantiCare connected 20 Pleasantville residents to certify them in home health aid work. Ideal founder Ren Parikh said the AtlantiCare partnership was particularly beneficial to young people who were not in school or were otherwise at risk. He said the jobs at AtlantiCare paid $16 to $18 per hour. Its not just providing health care but providing a work opportunity and a career pathway into health care to diverse communities or at-risk community, Parikh said. Thats amazing work. Upper Township man pleads guilty in fatal hit-and-run crash CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE An Upper Township man last week admitted causing a hit-and-run crash Pleasantville Mayor Judy Ward praised AtlantiCare for its workforce development efforts and community health initiatives. She highlighted AtlantiCares recent acquisition of the John Brooks Recovery Center, which she said will help the city ameliorate issues surrounding addiction and homelessness. AtlantiCare has always been such a big part of our community, Ward said. And we want to support them as they support us. CAPE MAY The East Lynne Theater Company has started raising money to begin renovations at the former AME Church on Franklin Street, with hopes of opening for the 2024 season. The theater company on Monday announced a 25-year lease with the city for the building, which dates to the 1850s. The former church already needed renovation after a fire damaged the interior, steeple and bell tower. The estimated cost is $700,000. The city purchased the former church in 2021, reportedly with the support of members of the congregation of the historically Black church, one of several properties significant to Cape Mays Black history in that neighborhood. The church is close to the former Franklin Street School, once the citys segregated school that is now slated to become the new local branch of the Cape May County Library, and around the corner from the Harriet Tubman Museum on Lafayette Street, which had been in serious disrepair. That building had been the home of the pastor of the Macedonia Baptist Church for decades, set in a block that was a center of abolitionist activity before the Civil War. The theater company plans to renovate the building and use it as a theater. For more than 20 years, the company has performed in the First Presbyterian Church of Cape May. Susan Tischler, president of the theaters board of trustees, told City Council the theater company loves the church but has to take down the sets each week to make way for Sunday services and has to be ready for the church to be used for funerals and weddings. The new site will allow the theater company more freedom in set design and more options in the plays it chooses. Founded in 1980, East Lynne Theater specializes in presenting historic or forgotten American plays. Cape May County briefs: East Lynne takeover of AME church moves toward final approval CAPE MAY A final vote is planned for a deal to put the long-vacant Allen AME church on Fra Another theater company, Cape May Stage, also operates under a long-term lease in a former church owned by the city. The Lafayette Street property was renovated after a fundraising campaign brought in more than $1 million, after signing a 25-year lease in 2004. Mayor Zack Mullock has pointed out in public discussions of the East Lynne plan that some of the citys iconic organizations have long-term agreements for city property, giving nonprofits an affordable place to work while offering programs the city could not afford to present. That includes the Nature Center of Cape May, a New Jersey Audubon location overlooking Cape May Harbor at 1600 Delaware Ave., and Cape May MAC, which restored the Emlen Physick Estate, originally built in 1879. East Lynne has been offered an incredible opportunity to expand our performance space, as well as our audiences, through use of this beautiful building, said Craig Fols, artistic director. However, the real privilege is being trusted with protecting and sustaining the historical significance of this great building and the Black community in Cape May. The church is listed as a national historic landmark, according to the theater company. As part of the agreement with the city, East Lynne obliged to maintain the building and allow public access when theater productions are not scheduled. That could include city-sponsored events, officials said when the contract was discussed this month. We are tremendously thrilled and proud to have been entrusted with preserving this great building, said Fols. We look forward to its reopening and showing residents and tourists just what this structure means to Cape May. After the renovations are complete, the theater hopes to renovate the church organ, and to incorporate it into future productions. East Lynne Theater director takes her final bow The employment history of actress, director and playwright Gayle Stahlhuth has included ever Not everyone supports the plan. As council considered an ordinance approving the long-term lease at a recent meeting, resident Jules Rauch said the agreement differed from other leases in that it requires the city to cover some expenses and contribute to others. I dont believe that obligation should be put on the city, he said. Other residents raised questions about a proposed expansion of the building. Mullock said the proposal would go through the same approval process as other construction projects, and that the theater company would pay for it. City attorney Christopher Gillin-Schwartz said the agreement would allow the building to be restored while providing space for the theater company. When this was presented to me, it wasnt Universal Studies or Paramount Pictures with boatloads of money. This is a local nonprofit that was looking for a home, emphasis on nonprofit, he told council. This year, East Lynne will continue its season at the First Presbyterian Church of Cape May at 500 Hughes St. and work over the winter to open the 2024 season at AME at 717 Franklin St. For more information, visit eastlynnetheater.org. OCEAN CITY As the Board of Education again searches for a new superintendent, one thing is clear about who will next lead the district: It will either be someone who currently works in the district or someone who does not. The question of which it should be took up a significant portion of a recent community forum presented in the Ocean City High School library, with some members supporting hiring from within and others stating just as emphatically that the new super should come from outside the district. The thought seems to be that the devil you know is better than the devil you dont know, said resident David Hayes at the meeting. In this case, the devil you know may be part of the current problem with academics in Ocean City. Ocean City had completed an extensive superintendent search last year, landing on Matthew Friedman, who started the job in July. But in March, Friedman accepted a new job as the superintendent of the Quakertown Community School District in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. His last day with Ocean City will be June 30. Several speakers at the Thursday forum, held as a meeting of the Board of Education, supported Lauren Gunther, the districts director of student services, as the best choice for the job. Hayes was not one of them. At several board meetings, he raised concerns about academics in the district. Hayes challenged Gunther by name, leading to a rebuke from one of the board members. Other residents supported Gunther, although not always by name. Resident Dave Breeden said the district just completed an extensive search for a new superintendent, and finds itself in the same position less than a year later. Residents frustrated with pending change of superintendent in Ocean City OCEAN CITY However quickly the citys school district hires a new superintendent, there wi Now its time to look inward, Breeden said. You have a talented, gifted administrator in this building that is more than capable of leading this district from day one. She doesnt have to learn about Ocean City, she doesnt have to Google directions to the intermediate school. He said she knows the districts strengths and weaknesses. He did not say Gunthers name, but mentioned her title. Shes a talent, shes a blessing and we need to recognize that, Breeden said. Several other speakers backed Gunther for superintendent. Gunther has worked for the district for eight years. Contacted on Tuesday for comment, she said she has applied for the job. I have the support of the teachers, the support staff, the parents and the community. I would be an easy transition, Gunther said. Having said that, I also trust that the board will make the best decision as a collective body for the good of the community. Board President Chris Halliday said at the start of the meeting that selecting a superintendent is one of the most important tasks for a school board. He added Ocean City is a unique community, changing dramatically from a small town in the offseason to a packed beach resort in the summer. In the winter, we know everybody in the grocery store. In the summer, we dont, he said. Ocean City schools begin search for a new superintendent OCEAN CITY The Board of Education this week launched its search for a new superintendent t The superintendent needs to be engaged with the community, he said, attending Chamber of Commerce meetings, meeting with the mayor and participating in community organizations. The board wants to find a leader and educator who can take Ocean City to where it needs to go and be, as well as who can fit in and be a part or our community. The district is losing students as it gets more expensive for young families to live in the community or in Upper Township, which sends its students to Ocean City High School. So the board will also look for a superintendent who can attract families to the district. There have been 45 applicants for the job. The next step will be to winnow that down in the coming weeks and come up with some names of candidates who may be interviewed in June. Over the past year, the district has been at the center of a rift in the community as districts enacted new state standards on health and physical education. Some saw the standards as going too far in matters of gender and sex education, leading to public protests and the election of three new board members who campaigned on challenging the standards. Others held rallies of their own and attended school board meetings, calling for acceptance and protection for LGBTQ students and raising concerns about bullying of students based on their sexuality or gender identity. The fight roiled the district for months, and echoes were heard at the recent meeting, with some speakers raising concerns about bullying and belonging for students. One parent, Dawn Dolinsky, said there has been a lot of discussion about finding a superintendent who understands what parents want. But she said parents do not all want the same thing, and said her daughter has been bullied in the school for being different, including by star athletes and academic leaders. The way that reads, is if you are not bright, Christian, and an athlete and white in Ocean City, you arent on an equal playing field. And that message is one that has been whispered for years. And that has to end, Dolinsky said. Its a message that trickles down. And if the person who is hired at the top does not change that message and the culture, weve lost an opportunity, because thats been the message for a very long time. Ocean City students participate in national walkout OCEAN CITY About a dozen students at Ocean City High School walked out of classes Wednesda Another speaker, Marie Hayes, said the school administration and teachers are generously compensated, and also raised concerns about student performance. She described Friedman as asleep at the wheel and said he ignored issues she and her husband, David Hayes, have raised. All the time and effort spent on endless discussions on a woke agenda should have been used to help our students with learning gaps, she said. CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE Revitalization of a local fishing and crabbing spot is moving forward after Cape May County commissioners approved a pair of resolutions earlier this month. Since last year, the Grassy Sound Fishing Pier has been closed for recreational use because of structural concerns. County officials said Wednesday commissioners passed two resolutions surrounding efforts to revamp the pier at its May 23 meeting. The first resolution approved a contract with Colliers Engineering & Design Inc., of Red Bank, Monmouth County, for its construction engineering services for the bulkhead and fishing pier, according to the meeting's agenda. The second authorized the use of a capital improvement fund for preliminary expenses tied to the pier's restoration, the agenda says. Monetary amounts for both ordinances were not listed in the agenda online. Officials expect a six- to nine-month permitting process. The project is anticipated to be completed by the end of next spring. Winter storm blasts South Jersey as holiday weekend begins A winter storm brought heavy rain, tidal flooding and freezing air to the region Friday, dis "This project is another example of how the Board of County Commissioners are working together with our municipalities to improve the quality of life for our residents and visitors," Commissioner Director and Sea Isle City Mayor Leonard Desiderio said in a statement. "The board and I are excited to make improvements that will allow for fishing memories to continue at the site for future years to come." Both locals and visitors have considered the Old North Wildwood Boulevard pier a memorable place to crab and fish for generations, county officials said. It was once part of the Grassy Sound Bridge, at the center of the Grassy Sound Channel, separating North Wildwood from Middle Township. To refurbish the pier, crews will construct a new pier, removing the current one and replacing the existing bulkhead at the site. The new pier will include updated lighting, aesthetics and parking. Middle Township, which has managed the county-owned pier through a lease agreement since 2007, will maintain the new pier once it's finished. This is a great project and partnership, and we are excited to be working with the county on a project that supports recreational fishing and our environment here in the Township of Middle, Mayor Tim Donohue said in a statement. The Grassy Sound Fishing Pier is a real asset to Middle Township and the county as a whole, and it will be a great day when it reopens to the community. OCEAN CITY After a Memorial Day weekend marred by vandalism, assaults, a confiscated firearm and several incidents of teens who drank themselves into unconsciousness, Mayor Jay Gillian has signed orders aimed at limiting gatherings of teens on the beach and Boardwalk. All city beaches will be closed at 8 p.m. Carrying backpacks will not be permitted after 8 p.m. on the beach and Boardwalk. Boardwalk bathrooms will be closed at 10 p.m. The curfew for juveniles will move from 1 a.m. to 11 p.m. City Council has an emergency meeting set for 1 p.m. Thursday on the third floor of City Hall, 861 Asbury Ave., to discuss the changes. Gillian and Police Chief Jay Prettyman are set to discuss the plans publicly after the meeting. We want parents, grandparents and families to know that were all in this together, and we will be holding people accountable, Gillian said Tuesday. I also want to send a message to our governor and legislators that the laws they forced on all municipalities are a threat to public safety, and they deprive families of the opportunity to enjoy the Jersey Shore. Gillian said the changes will send a message to teens and their parents that the beach, Boardwalk and other public areas will no longer be open to mass gatherings that include alcohol consumption and other infractions of the law. The gatherings have been a headache for police and Boardwalk merchants for the past two years. At times, hundreds of juveniles have gathered on the beach path just off the Boardwalk, while several communities reported similar problems after pandemic restrictions on gatherings lifted. Prettyman had used a strategy of containment: allowing teens to gather on the beach, out of the way of the families and shoppers on the Boardwalk, and under the watchful eyes of a large contingent of full-time and summer officers, including some using ATVs to patrol the edges of the crowd. Earlier this year, the city enacted new measures aimed at controlling the situation, including listing many of the infractions that have caused issues as disturbing-the-peace offenses. That allows the police to contact parents and to bring offenders to the station, beyond the warnings that have been issued. Last weekend seemed to indicate an escalation. Police responded to 999 incidents, an increase compared to Memorial Day weekend last year. Teen crowds on the beach remain a headache for towns OCEAN CITY As Dee Snyder sang for Twisted Sister way back in 1983, Oh, watch out, the kid In addition to underage drinking, police responded to incidents involving vandalism, assaults, shoplifting, confiscation of a firearm, and a variety of other infractions, reads a statement released Tuesday by city spokesperson Doug Bergen. Ocean City firefighter/EMTs were just as busy responding to several incidents involving teens who drank to the point of unconsciousness, assault victims, mental health issues and other incidents. On the Boardwalk on Monday, several business owners and employees said there appeared to be more teenagers than last year, and worried about what that could mean for the rest of the summer. Others said most of the young people appeared to be between 14 and 18 years old. Jamie Ford, a Boardwalk merchant for close to 30 years, said every business has been disrupted. There are no families after 7:30. Theyre gone, he said, adding his employees dont want to be on the Boardwalk at night, and for that matter, neither does he. Several suggested that as other shore communities got tough on teen gatherings, the teens came to Ocean City. On social media, several people reported vandalism and disruption from juveniles, along with reports of teens drinking and smoking marijuana. In years past, I wouldnt blink an eye as I was once a teen myself, but there comes a point when enough is enough, wrote one commenter. The police officers are doing everything they can to control the environment that once was Americas Greatest Family Resort but are clearly being overrun by enabled, entitled teenagers who are sadly backed by the lack of laws to prosecute/hold accountable these teens. City Councilman Jody Levchuk, who has Boardwalk businesses, blamed state juvenile justice reform. He said he understands the motivation, to avoid criminal records for juvenile behavior that may cause lifelong problems, but said the reforms went too far. In Ocean City, ordinance infractions could become disturbing the peace OCEAN CITY Previously minor infractions of city codes could mean a trip to the police stat When the state says, Hey, kids, you can do what you want and the police cant do anything about it, what did you think they were going to do? he said. Police have new limits on interactions with those under 18, including limits on searching juveniles for alcohol or marijuana. In most instances, juveniles receive a warning. Ford said it is time to change the laws, especially those limiting the ability of police to issue citations for underage drinking. Its a failed social experiment, he said. Its bad for business, its bad for the community and quite frankly its bad for the kids. The city also pointed a finger at Trenton. The new policies come in response to a Memorial Day weekend in Ocean City that saw the continuation of a trend that began when statewide legislation largely stripped police officers of the ability to question juveniles, search juveniles, and confiscate alcohol, reads the city statement. The legislation also eliminates meaningful consequences for juveniles who break these laws. The new beach curfew will apply to people of all ages, as will the evening backpack ban. The new rules will be part of a citywide plan that will include police staffing, more announcements on the Boardwalk and a public awareness campaign. I understand that these new directives will affect many people who are not teens, but its important that we stop this type of behavior now, Gillian said. In the end, protecting our reputation as Americas Greatest Family Resort will benefit everybody in Ocean City. Ocean City passes ordinance giving police more options when dealing with unruly juveniles OCEAN CITY After a pledge of more cooperation between Cape May County and its municipaliti He said the city will let teens and their parents know that the beach, Boardwalk and other public areas will no longer be open to mass gatherings that include alcohol consumption and other infractions of the law. I want to support the men and women of our police department, Gillian said. They have been doing everything they can within the law to address this situation, and I want to give them the tools to get the job done. Levchuk said the teens were only a problem for a few hours out of an excellent weekend, but said Ocean City has lost patience with the gatherings and with the rowdy behavior. The point I want to get across is Ocean City is overwhelmingly a safe town. Its a wholesome town. Its a town for families. It is not a party-animal-for-teenagers-style town, he said. It you went to the 10th or 11th Street beaches this weekend, or to other areas, or to the Wawa, thats what you would think this town has become. EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP An at times controversial affordable-housing mandate has brought new development and diversity to the township, according to a recent report. The Fair Share Housing Center, a nonprofit based in Cherry Hill that monitors affordable-housing development in the state, issued a report last month about the recent impacts of the Mount Laurel doctrine the constitutional obligation of local governments in New Jersey to provide affordable housing. Taking Egg Harbor Township as a case study, the report said the doctrine has helped grow the housing supply and increase racial and economic diversity there. Fair Share Executive Director Adam Gordon said affordable housing mandates make municipalities like Egg Harbor Township accessible to new communities with varying income levels. Theres a range of different housing needs, and having more choices at a variety of price points just creates more opportunities, Gordon said. Thats a lot of peoples lives that have been impacted by this. Mayor Laura Pfrommer said the township was glad to embrace more diversity and provide more affordable housing but said she wanted to carefully manage population growth and its effect on township resources. You want to see everybody have a good place to lay their head down at night, Pfrommer said. The report compares demographic changes from 2010 to 2020 in two tracts in the township where developments associated with Mount Laurel obligations were built to demographic changes in the rest of the township over that same 10-year period. One of the Mount Laurel tracts contains the Egg Harbor Township Family Apartments, an affordable-housing development with 136 residential units. The other is the Atrium Apartments at Egg Harbor, an affordable-housing development with 183 units. Ocean City church plans to relocate to Marmora UPPER TOWNSHIP On Sunday, the last services will take place at the Union Chapel by the Sea In the whole of Egg Harbor Township, minus the two tracts with Mount Laurel developments, the population grew by 8% to 38,294. The number of Asian, Black and Hispanic residents likewise grew by 15%, 5% and 35%, respectively; while the number of white residents declined 2%. The diversity-index score, a metric of integration measured on a scale from 0 to 1, was 0.62, which amounted to a decennial increase of 6%. In the tracts with affordable housing, demographic shifts were considerably sharper, according to the report. The total population in the two tracts grew by 18% to 9,340. The Asian, Black and Hispanic populations grew by 29%, 23% and 86%, respectively, while the white population in the tracts decreased 8%. The diversity score rose 10% over the decade to 0.83. It really is this place that has a lot of the diversity of our state in a fairly small area, Gordon said. What this is really showing is that the growth from the Mount Laurel housing is really reflecting that diversity of the area as a whole. Overall, the two Mount Laurel tracts drove about a third of total population growth in the township between 2010 and 2020, according to the report. Gordon said the affordable-housing mandates caused municipalities like Egg Harbor Township to relax exclusionary zoning policies he said limit economic potential throughout the state. The housing center report maintains that reserving tracts in a municipality for single-family homes artificially suppresses multifamily developments and in turn makes housing more scarce and expensive. Gordon said the township has leveraged the redevelopment process to meet its Mount Laurel obligations, meaning that affordable-housing development was bringing activity to what had been economically barren areas. He also cited studies indicating transformational changes affordable housing and economic integration can have on education and mental health. These developments represent significant investment in Egg Harbor Township, Gordon said. Township Committeeman Joe ODonoghue celebrated the growing diversity the report evidenced. A child of Irish American and Japanese American parents, ODonoghue has often pointed to his own diverse family background when campaigning and discussing his vision for the townships future. Diversity is of the utmost importance, not just to Egg Harbor Township, but to the entire country, ODonoghue said. We cant be a nation divided. It comes down to the heart of what Egg Harbor Township is. The report indicates accelerated development in the township reflects housing growth that happened elsewhere in the state. In the seven years between 2015 and 2022, the housing center reports that 21,891 affordable-housing units were created in the state through Mount Laurel developments to house an estimated 51,663 people with very low to moderate incomes. Also during that period, a total of 69,516 housing units, both market-rate and affordable, were created through multifamily properties that towns had developed to satisfy Mount Laurel obligations, housing an estimated 183,522 people across all income levels. Eighty-one percent of all multifamily developments in the state during that period were tied to Mount Laurel obligations. A lot of the homes that are created are really mixed income, and theres obviously a lot of benefits to that, Gordon said. The work to increase affordable housing, however, comes after a long period in which the housing center and the township feuded over those obligations. James Sonny McCullough, who served as mayor for about 30 years before opting not to run for reelection in 2018, said he had long been an opponent of the state housing regulations. He said state-mandated affordable housing and associated population growth have placed an undue burden on the township and school district, without matching state aid. These came in tandem with Pinelands regulations McCullough said generated additional development in the township. I was always in disagreement with it, the unfairness of it, McCullough said. The township was treated so unfairly. McCullough said the township had always been a melting pot, with officials celebrating the multiple languages spoken in its schools. He said he was skeptical that Mount Laurel developments had significantly changed its demographics. The townships resistance eventually saw the housing center sue the township in 2008. Gordon said the township was exceptional among municipalities in that it had not even developed an affordable-housing plan. The suit forced the township into compliance. After it was created by the New Jersey Supreme Court in 1975, the state Legislature codified the Mount Laurel doctrine with the 1985 Fair Housing Act. This created the Council on Affordable Housing, a body to compel municipalities to meet their housing obligations. Over the decades, COAH proved dysfunctional, and the body became essentially defunct by the 2000s. Due to COAHs apparent dereliction, the New Jersey Supreme Court deputized the Fair Share Housing Center in 2015 to help set affordable-housing obligations and enforce the Mount Laurel doctrine throughout the state. A municipalitys affordable-housing obligations are currently determined by expected population of low- and moderate-income residents in one of six affordable-housing regions; existing housing prices and vacancies in a municipality; and expected job growth in a municipality. Gordon said weak affordable-housing enforcement under COAH in the 2000s had also led to a significant rise in housing costs. The report shows an 86% increase in annual affordable housing production in the state after the court ruling in 2015. Galloway to spend $1.05 million to address affordable housing GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP The Township Council voted unanimously Tuesday to authorize the acquisit Part of the challenge is that were still digging out of that hole, Gordon said. There is an effort to return to the pre-2015 status quo. Egg Harbor Township is one of a dozen municipalities that has sued Gov. Phil Murphy, saying he has an obligation to reconvene COAH, which could strip authority over affordable-housing matters from the courts. Asked about the litigation, Gordon said he feared it was a way to skirt affordable-housing obligations. Justice Jacobs stood on a stool for 20 minutes before the cameras rolled. The partial collapse of The Davenport is big news, especially after the city's announcement to start demolition Tuesday was met with hundreds of loud and angry protesters. The intersection of 4th and Harrison streets was quiet Wednesday morning. The media an assortment of cameramen, well-dressed on-air personalities and tired-looking producers outnumbered the citizens who kept a now-silent vigil over the building. Jacobs was waiting to do her "fourth or fifth" interview. The stand-up Wednesday morning was with News Nation's Midwest crew out of Chicago. The 28-year-old Jacobs is one at least 53 people who lived in the six-story apartment building at 324 Main St. known as The Davenport. She paid $950 a month for a one-bedroom apartment she shared with Zenon, her Black Lab mix. She said she didn't make herself so available just to see herself on the nightly news. "I'm lucky, in a way. I lived. I wasn't in the building at the time," Jacobs said. "My apartment wasn't in the collapse, but I've lost everything. I have my health, my dog was rescued, I have a place to stay for now and I have a voice. "I decided to use my voice and try to speak for all the tenants who lost everything, for the people who lived here and might not have a place to go. We have to speak out." Finding an apartment is especially hard for Jacobs, who carries the stigma of a felony conviction for forgery. "It was years ago," she said. "I served my time, and I've changed my life. I have my own business. It's hard to find a place to live when you have a felony. Really hard." Jacobs moved into The Davenport in March. She had to beg and plead and cry to make her case. A visit with her grandmother finally convinced management to give her a chance. That chance was not cheap. She paid $950 in rent, another $1,000 for a security deposit, and another $300 in pet fees so Zenon could live with her. From the start, Jacobs said, "Something was not right about the building." "It was trashy," she said. "I mean there was trash in the halls. It was a mess. My car was broken into. "I finally find a place to take me, I'm paying $950 a month, and it wasn't worth it. And then this happens." Jacobs said she had just paid June's rent. "I texted the landlord, and I've heard nothing back," she said. "I don't think anyone has heard a thing from anyone who had anything to do with that building. Nothing." Jacobs said before Sunday she "never thought anything like this could happen." "I'm doing OK most of the time," she said. "And then it can be something simple, like I need a Q-Tip, and then I'm just overwhelmed and I get upset. It's hard to understand that now I have nothing. "And then I think about the people who didn't make it out. The people who are in there. It's just really hard, and you really don't know how to feel." IOWA CITY A Saturday night crash in Iowa City left a former Waterloo woman dead and three teenagers injured. A crash report from the Iowa State Patrol states Kesan Ford and Elijah Seals, both 17-year-olds from Iowa City, did not stop at an intersection at East Court Street and South Seventh Avenue and hit Jennifer Russells car. Russell was transported to the University of Iowa Hospitals and pronounced dead. She was 22 years old. Ford, Seals and another 17-year-old passenger were also transported the hospital with injuries. An obituary from Locke Funeral Services said Russell graduated from Waterloo West High School in 2019 and worked as a manager at Jethros BBQ in Iowa City. A GoFundMe fundraiser was set up for Russells family. The $10,000 goal has already been reached. Jenn had the kindest heart and beautiful soul, a ready smile, fiercely loyal and hardworking, the GoFundMe page stated. Jenn was someone who radiated joy to all who met her. Photos: Memorial Day Parade, Ceremony 2023 052923jr-memorial-day-1 052923jr-memorial-day-2 052923jr-memorial-day-3 052923jr-memorial-day-4 052923jr-memorial-day-5 052923jr-memorial-day-6 052923jr-memorial-day-7 052923jr-memorial-day-8 052923jr-memorial-day-9 052923jr-memorial-day-10 052923jr-memorial-day-11 052923jr-memorial-day-12 052923jr-memorial-day-14 052923jr-memorial-day-15 The Plot Thickens John Banville, the Booker Prize-winning author of "The Sea" and numerous other acclaimed novels, has a pretty great side hustle: He writes crime fiction, presumably in his spare time, set in 1950s Dublin and featuring a troubled, hard-drinking yet brilliant pathologist known as Quirke, or sometimes Dr. Quirke. (If Quirke has a first name, I don't know it.) Until recently, Banville wrote his Quirke novels under the pseudonym of Benjamin Black, but by 2021's "April in Spain" he began using his real name. In true crime-writer fashion, he killed Black off with appropriate atmosphere: "I shut him in a room with a pistol, a phial of sleeping pills and a bottle of Scotch, and that was the end of him," Banville told The New York Times. His latest, "The Lock-Up" (out May 23 from Hanover Square Press), has Quirke reeling from the personal tragedy described in "April in Spain," and yet drawn to work: A young woman has been found dead in her car, and Quirke and Detective Inspector St. John Strafford quickly find that the death appears to be a homicide, and that the young woman had connections to a powerful German family who mysteriously arrived in Ireland after the war. But you don't read Banville's Quirke books for the plot, but for the beautiful writing that had me savoring every page. Strafford, at one point, watches at a window as Quirke walks away, "the dark, behatted figure, walking in a sort of huddle, seeming to bear himself along, clasped in his own pained embrace." And what other crime author tosses in a brief Yeats poem? If you haven't read the Quirke series, it's a treat; start at the beginning with "Christine Falls" and enjoy the dark wander. By the way, there's a "Quirke" miniseries available on BritBox, with Gabriel Byrne as Quirke. Sounds promising; anyone watched it? Also new this month: Megan Abbott's latest skillful noir "Beware the Woman" (out May 30, Putnam). As always, Abbott is terrific at finding dread around every corner, at making you see the grotesque and frightening in something previously mundane. "Beware the Woman" is the story of Jacy, happily pregnant and newly married to Jed, who goes with her husband to visit his father, Doctor Ash, at his home in the remote Michigan backwoods. All seems bucolic, but quickly things turn ominous: the mysterious housekeeper Mrs. Brandt, "her mouth like a zipper, straight with teeth glittering"; the mountain lions who scream at night; the strange images in Jacy's dreams; the way the men and Mrs. Brandt seem to slowly form a circle around Jacy, taking control of her body and her movements. But how much of Jacy's mounting fear is real, and how much of it is paranoia? While I don't recommend anyone read this book while pregnant (the complications Jacy endures are potentially triggering), "Beware the Woman" is a master class in suspense, with Abbott's sentences and paragraphs seeming to get more breathless as the novel progresses, mirroring the rhythm of an increasingly frantic Jacy's pounding heart. And here's a public service announcement, for those who love crime fiction: Check out Crime Reads (crimereads.com), a terrific online fountain of smart writing and book recommendations in the mystery and true crime genres. Its author adviser list alone is a murderer's row: Abbott, Carl Hiaasen, Laura Lippman, Attica Locke, Walter Mosley and Ruth Ware, among others. Recent articles that I found of great interest: "True Crime Books for Readers Who Are Uncomfortable With True Crime As a Popular Obsession," "Painting the Town Red: What Art Can Add to a Mystery," "What Journalism Can Teach You About Writing Fiction" (aha!), and "What Teaching Shakespeare Taught Me About Writing Horror." Finally, a note on this column itself. Formerly monthly, The Plot Thickens is moving to every other month, because other stories and deadlines are crowding out my ability to spend every waking hour reading mysteries and pretending to be solving crimes. But I would love to ask readers of this column for their thoughts. More reviews, but shorter ones? Announcements of interesting-looking books coming up, or local author events? Crowdsourcing recommendations, as we've done to some extent in the past? Favorite sentences from crime fiction? This column grew out of my longtime fascination with fictional detectives; now I'd love to solve the mystery of what readers would like best. Drop me a line mmacdonald@seattletimes.com and tell me your favorite recent mystery while you're at it. Generational incarceration, the "expensive revolving door" of the jail and workforce shortages are a few things behind Pennington County Sheriff Brian Mueller's plan to implement an education and job skills training program in the Pennington County Jail something most jails don't offer. "I just feel as a community we could do some things better to help (inmates) develop a solid foundation for their own future and invest in their own future and hopefully change that trajectory," Mueller said, noting he's seen up to three generations make their way through the jail during the nearly three decades he's worked for the county. IGNITE (Individual Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education) began in Genesee County, Michigan. Sheriff Christopher R. Swanson started the program, and now the National Sheriffs' Association helps other jails replicate it. Genesee county offers various education, including GED classes. There are also job certification and post-incarceration work opportunities and assistance all things not traditionally offered in jails, which are primarily pretrial holding facilities. According to the National Sheriffs' Association, 90% of jail inmates in the country end up back in their communities. Mueller estimated the Pennington County Jail is close to that number, maybe slightly below because it houses federal inmates as well. "Jail beds are probably one of the most expensive options to deal with issues in the community," Mueller said. A night in the jail costs about $95, and the daily average population is 595 inmates. The average stay is just over 22 days, a number Mueller said includes people who spend a few hours or days in this jail. The program will primarily benefit those who find themselves in the jail for longer than the average, Mueller said. What exactly it will look like is still developing, but Mueller plans to formalize the work some inmates are already doing in the jail that could translate to jobs on the outside such as cleaning, maintenance, and work in the jail laundry and kitchen. "This is the early stage," Mueller said on Tuesday. "My hope is to have more conversations with our community and the business community to assess what their needs are for the job market currently and what partnerships they're willing to develop with us." Some of those potential community partners include Western Dakota Tech, Elevate Rapid City and Rapid City Area Schools, which Mueller said "may be able to fund a full-time teacher." The goal is for the new classes and certifications to give people a chance to get jobs outside the jail, as well and reduce and prevent further costs to taxpayers. Mueller will reroute an open correctional officer position at the jail to hire a program coordinator, he said, but he doesn't anticipate "having a lot of hard costs wrapped up in this because a lot of it's developed through community partnerships." If all goes well, Pennington County will be the first in South Dakota to implement IGNITE. So far, it's offered in counties in Minnesota, North Dakota, North Carolina and Virginia. Mueller said he hopes inmates knowing law enforcement and the community is willing to partner with and invest in them will be "enough that the light bulb will turn on." Mueller first publicly teased IGNITE although not by name in March, a few months after he took office. He told the Journal in an interview he wanted to provide more resources like education and job training to "a captive audience." The sheriff first heard about the program last year, shortly after he was elected. He ran into Paul Laney, a friend of his and former sheriff of Cass County, North Dakota, at the National Sheriffs' Association conference in 2022. "Paul (who was working part time for the National Sheriffs' Association) made a couple of phone calls and got us on the list of potential launch sites for this year," Mueller said. The research process for IGNITE included a few trips. Mueller, the Pennington County Jail Commander Rob Yantis, and Chief Deputy Mark Hughes attended a training day in Cass County, which was launching the program. Staff visited Flint, Michigan as well to see the program there, which has been successful in a few areas, including lowering assaults in the jail according to reporting by the Davison Index. The official kickoff for the program is at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at the Public Safety Building in Rapid City. The sheriff's office has invited various community groups to the event, and representatives from the Genesee County Sheriff's Office and the National Sheriffs' Association will be in attendance. It is open to the public. A man died Tuesday following a police shooting on the 100 block of East Signal Drive that morning. Police were called to the area Tuesday by a person who could not get two male family members to leave their home, police said. The caller also claimed the two had a no contact order in place. When police arrived at about 11 a.m., one of the two men ran from police, police chief Don Hedrick said at a press conference Tuesday afternoon. As police were chasing the man, they told him he was under arrest and ordered him to stop and take his hands out of his pockets, according to Hedrick. After rounding a corner, Hedrick said the man was pointing a gun at the residence before he turned the gun towards the pursuing officer. Police shot the man after telling him to drop the gun, Hedrick said. The man dropped the gun and fell to the ground. Soon after a separate injured man came out of the residence. Hedrick could not say how the man was injured or his relationship to the events. Both men were treated by officers and first responders. The man shot by police was alive at the time and taken to the hospital, police said. Following the press conference, RCPD spokesperson Brendyn Medina could not provide the condition of the man shot by police. He said the man was alive after transport but any other information would have to come from South Dakotas Division of Criminal Investigation. In a press release Tuesday evening, the South Dakota Attorney General's Office said they were investigating the shooting at the request of the Rapid City Police Department and that one of the two men had died. "One person has died as a result of their injuries and another person was injured. The officer was not injured," the release said. The release does not make clear whether or not the man who died was the same that allegedly pointed the gun at police. It also did not clarify how the other man was injured or his relationship to the shooting. Hedrick said the man shot by police was allegedly known to have gang affiliations and had five active warrants out for his arrest. Hedrick also lamented what he described as a disturbing trend of people turning weapons on police in the city. This marks three circumstances this year where weve had individuals pull deadly weapons on police officers, Hedrick said. Its a disturbing trend. We cant be okay with that as a community. We cant be okay with individuals pointing deadly weapons at officers responding during calls for service. And I, for one, am very thankful that the officers today are going home safely. Pennington County Sheriff Brian Mueller said a large presence from his office and highway patrol responded as part of their standard procedures. His agency secured the scene and DCI would be handling the investigation, he added. When we got on scene, we worked through things with the police department supervision, Mueller said. They relinquished the scene to the Pennington County Sheriffs Office and South Dakota Highway Patrol and Chief Hedrick reached out to the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and asked them to come in and do a third-party investigation, which is standard procedure for these types of incidents. According to the attorney general release a summary of the investigation and findings will be delivered to the AG's office and the Pennington County State's Attorney for a determination. That report is expected in 30 days. The 100 block of East Signal Drive was also the scene of a separate shooting Friday where a six-year-old boy was shot. The boy was seriously injured and taken to the hospital for treatment. After the shooting, police released a photo of the suspect and later identified him as Lyle Blue Legs III. Police did not have a reason to believe the two shootings were connected, Hedrick said. Kathmandu, Nepal, May 31, 2023: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal's official visit to southern neighbor India is starting from today. This is the first foreing trip of the Prime Minister Dahal after he appointed in the post for the third time. The Prime Minister led 44-member government team is scheduled to return home on coming Saturday. The Prime Minister Dahal-led team includes Foreign Minister N.P. Saud, Finance Minister Dr. Prakasharan Mahat, Industry Minister Ramesh Rizal, Physical Infrastructure Minister Prakash Jwala and Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Shakti Bahadur Basnet and many other high ranking government officials. Luxe New American Bar & Grill now open Luxe New American Bar & Grill, a new fine dining concept from chef Princess Harris, is now open in Shockoe Slip. Located at 1331 E. Cary St., next door to Sine Irish Pub in Shockoe Slip, Luxe New American Bar & Grill hosted a soft opening this week starting with lunch on Tuesday, which will be followed by its grand opening on Sunday. The lunch menu features a variety of burgers, sandwiches and salads, such as the Luxe burger ($13) with grass fed beef, a golden fried chicken breast sandwich with Cajun aioli ($12) and a Cajun fried salmon sandwich with field greens and Old Bay cream sauce ($15), to name a few. A graduate of The Art Institute of Atlantas culinary arts program and L.C. Bird High School in Chesterfield County, Harris has developed many dishes in her time as a personal chef. The dinner menu features several of those creations, such as a sticky fried shrimp starter tossed in a honey chipotle glaze ($15) and a fried lobster tail topped with a Cajun honey glaze ($25). Other dishes include grass-fed tomahawk beef ($125), grass-fed rib-eye ($55) and seafood pasta with lump crab meat and a Cajun cream sauce. The space was previously occupied by The Angry Mussels, an Italian restaurant, which closed during the pandemic. Before that, the space was home to Kitchen on Cary, which closed in February 2018. Luxes hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner. It is located at 1331 E. Cary St. More information is available at luxeeatsrva.com Eggs Up Grill headed to Mechanicsville Another Eggs Up Grill is on the way, this time to Mechanicsvilles Brandy Creek Commons Shopping Center at 6593 Mechanicsville Turnpike. This will be the fourth Eggs Up Grill in the Richmond area. The others are at 2003 Huguenot Road in North Chesterfield, 2238 John Rolfe Parkway in Henrico County and 12050 Southshore Pointe Drive in Midlothian. This location will be run by franchisee Shamsher Jessani. Eggs Up Grill is a popular breakfast spot that serves fresh omelets, pancakes and eggs cooked many ways. The 3,500-square foot space will be located on the corner of the complex anchored by Publix. Eggs Up Grill Mechanicsville is expected to open in the fall. It will serve breakfast, lunch and brunch seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Seafood Palace VA A new seafood spot with seafood boils, fried fish, steamed seafood and signature sauces has opened in Petersburg. Seafood Palace VA opened this month at 302 Halifax St. from DeMontray Monty Pulliam. Items on the menu include The Fat Boy Boil ($40.99) with 2 snow crab clusters, 1/2 pound of shrimp, egg, sausage, potatoes, corn and boil sauce. Steamed seafood options include a pound of steamed shrimp ($18.99), steamed crab legs ($24.99) and whole steamed crawfish ($12.99). Extra sauces like the white sauce, Captains sauce and garlic lemon butter can be purchased for $5 to sauce and toss your seafood. The white sauce has been a hit, according to LaJoyous Boose, a spokesperson for the restaurant. Ramen can also be added to the seafood boil, which has been a crowd-pleaser as well. Fried fish options include fried shrimp and fries ($10), fried whiting and fries ($11 to $15) and the surprise fan favorite buffalo ranch fried whiting and fries ($12 to $17). Monty has always wanted his own restaurant. It was a dream of his mothers, who passed it down to him, Boose said. Seafood Palace is located in the heart of downtown Petersburg across from the Petersburg Department of Health. The restaurant is painted bright orange and ocean blue. Dishes are served to-go, but there are picnic tables out front where visitors can dine on site. Theres nothing else like it in the heart of downtown Petersburg, Boose said. Monty wanted to bring some good energy to the city of Petersburg and highlight the great things going on here. Right now, Seafood Palace is only open on the weekends on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., but it hopes to expand its hours when more staff has been hired. Follow Seafood Palace on Instagram @seafoodpalaceva or Facebook @seafoodpalaceva for more updates. Richmond area restaurants opened in 2023 Shake Shack Luxe New American Bar & Grill Slurp! Slay Burgers Mariscos Mazatlan Eggs Up Grill Seafood Palace Fat Boy boil A Taste of Nostalgia 88 Street Food Acacia Midtown Odyssey Lost Letter RVA Stanley's Hibachi House Main St. Dragon Nokoribi Urban Myth Street Food Revel Market & Bar Genovas Pizza Station & Take Out Kitchen Brick House Diner Mayu Sushi & Thai Wok This Way Boiling Crab Richmond Torchy's Tacos Raising Cane's ChefSuite BigWife's La Fogata Grit Coffee The Brass Tap Penny's Wine Shop A.M. Kitchen Company Verseau Bistro Chic'n & Beer Bar West Sidecar Cocktail Lounge Soul N Vinegar Wong's Tacos Elegant Cuizines Rio Grande Tex-Mex Grill Mi Casita Restaurant Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. Suzy Sno Diablo Doughnuts RVA Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams The driver who killed a 24-year-old Henrico County police officer in a crash last year will serve two months of house arrest as part of a plea deal, it was announced Tuesday. Jeffrey Adam Lankford pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in court Tuesday morning. He was 18 when he ran into Officer Trey Sutton's police cruiser at Chamberlayne Avenue and Wilkinson Road on the night of March 30, 2022. His house arrest will start Friday. An additional 22 months of incarceration will be suspended on the conditions that Lankford completes 200 hours of community service and five years of probation and surrenders his driver's license for a year, according to the plea agreement. He was facing up to 20 years in prison if convicted at trial. This is not the exact result that the Commonwealth, the Sutton family, or (Zoe Pierson, Sutton's fiance), were hoping for," Henrico Commonwealth's Attorney Shannon Taylor said in a statement released Tuesday afternoon. When reached by phone, Taylor said that there were two potential legal issues, including one involving "new science," that risked the possibility of Lankford not being held accountable for Sutton's death. One of the potential hurdles was the color of the traffic signal at the moment when Sutton, who had graduated from the Henrico police academy two months earlier, entered the intersection. If Sutton, rather than Lankford, was the one who ran a red light, as the defense was prepared to argue, that could be viewed as a mitigating factor that would reduce or eliminate Lankford's liability. The other was how to measure the speed at which Lankford was driving when the crash happened. His truck was old enough that it didn't have a "black box," an onboard computer that would log key information such as driving speed, Taylor said, so prosecutors would have to estimate the speed using a combination of traffic camera footage and Apple Maps location data from Lankford's cell phone. That is a technique that the county has not previously used in court before, which brought a risk that the judge in the case, L.A. Harris, would deem the speed analysis inadmissible significantly harming the county's case. Pierson read a victim impact statement during the hearing Tuesday, recalling the horror of receiving the news of the crash, detailing the injuries that Sutton suffered and mourning the fact that, in an instant, Sutton lost the chance to become a husband or father. "There is no justice today," Pierson said to Lankford. "If it had been you hurt that night, Trey, who took his oath to protect and serve, wouldve been the one to show up, no questions asked. He wouldve done his best to make sure you went home that night, and you did not extend to him or anybody else on that road the same courtesy." "It has been 425 days since we had to explain what happened to everyone we knew, 425 days of living in this nightmare, and 425 days in expectation of today. You might rationalize what happened in your head, make excuses for why and how it happened the way it did," Pierson added. Sutton, 24, of Chesterfield County, was one of four people hurt in the three-vehicle crash. He died of his injuries the next day. Hundreds of police officers and first responders from across Virginia and the East Coast attended his memorial service. His badge number, 559, was retired. He had a purpose, Henrico Police Chief Col. Eric English said at the time. We will carry on your dream. After the hearing on Tuesday, Craig Curwood, the Sutton family's civil attorney, read a statement on behalf of the family. The family thanked the first responders and medical professionals at VCU Medical Center who cared for Sutton between the crash and his death the following day, and praised Henrico police for their investigation. "While we are disappointed with the sentence, we know that no sentence will bring back Trey or ease our suffering," Curwood said. "We were hoping for more accountability in the outcome today, but sadly, we could not get that. There is however, some satisfaction in knowing that Jeffery Lankford will be a convicted felon for the rest of his life." PHOTOS: Remembering Henrico Police Officer Trey Sutton A Philadelphia man who was arrested in Chesterfield County early Tuesday morning is set to be extradited to South Carolina after investigators linked him to a homicide there. The Oconee County Sheriffs Office said in a press release Tuesday that David Delgado Jr. was being charged with murder and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime in connection with the death of a 26-year-old woman whose body was found near a road in Seneca a city in the northwestern corner of the state, just over 20 miles from the Georgia border. Deputies spoke to family members, who found blood inside a home on South Gate Drive on Monday evening after going to a nearby town that afternoon. When they returned, they saw Delgado quickly exit the home and speed away in a silver Chrysler 300 as one of the family members attempted to get him to stop. Arrest warrants allege that Delgado, who investigators say was in a relationship with the woman and had been staying at the South Gate Drive residence with her for about a month, shot her in the upper body with an AR-15 rifle and disposed of the body. Chesterfield police said Wednesday officers were called around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday to assist Virginia State Police in locating a vehicle traveling north on Interstate 95, which was being driven by a suspect in a possible South Carolina homicide. An officer stopped Delgado for speeding, but he gave false identifying information to the officer and then fled the traffic stop with police in pursuit. Delgado crashed his car when attempting to use the I-95/VA-288 interchange and initially attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended by officers and charged with being a fugitive from another jurisdiction, reckless driving, giving false identity to law enforcement and eluding police. He is in custody at Chesterfield County Jail pending extradition proceedings. The Richmond Times-Dispatch has contacted the Chesterfield Commonwealths Attorneys Office for further details on extradition proceedings. South Africa: President outlines progress on Energy Action Plan President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated government's commitment to resolving the energy crisis as soon as possible. The President was addressing the National Assembly on Wednesday during the occasion of The Presidencys Budget Vote. Our overriding priority now is to end load shedding and to achieve energy security. In July last year, I announced a detailed plan to address the energy crisis. I have since established the National Energy Crisis Committee to ensure that this plan is fully implemented and appointed a dedicated a Minister in The Presidency to provide a single point of execution. "Over the past nine months, we have made progress in implementing the measures that we outlined in the Energy Action Plan, he said. Reforming electricity generation Zeroing in on the progress made, President Ramaphosa said governments move to reform private electricity generation has paved the way for an exponential growth of new generation projects. More than 100 projects are now at various stages of development, representing over 10 000MW of new generation capacity, with an investment of over R200 billion. The exponential growth of private sector investment in electricity generation is proof that this reform is indeed having a major impact. These investments will significantly close the shortfall in electricity supply as we move on. What has been pleasing is that this reform process has attracted a variety of investors in the form of women-led businesses. A province such as the Northern Cape has attracted no less than R100 billion in investments in renewable energy and is seeing exponential economic growth, with the resultant creation of jobs, the President said. Accelerating new generation capacity and assisting municipalities President Ramaphosa said governments Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (RMIPPPP) which was created to address the current energy shortfall and reduce the dependence of diesel guzzling Open Cycle Gas Turbines is also bearing fruit. Three projects from the Risk Mitigation Programme have entered construction, with a further five projects expected to reach financial close during this quarter. Project agreements have been signed with 25 preferred bidders from Bid Window 5 and Bid Window 6. In the coming months, we will initiate the procurement of more than 10 000MW of additional generation capacity from wind, solar, gas and battery storage, which will further contribute to closing the shortfall in energy supply, he said. Unbundling the State power utility The President said the unbundling of Eskom into three entities is well underway and assured that many countries have implemented such a move with some success. Significant progress has been made in the establishment of the National Transmission Company of South Africa as an independent subsidiary of Eskom. Ive asked the Minister of Public Enterprises to ensure that an independent board is appointed for the new transmission company by the end of June so that it can be fully operational as soon as possible. At the same time, we are making progress in decisively addressing Eskoms debt burden. The budget introduced R254 billion in debt relief to Eskom, subject to conditions. This will relieve pressure on the utilitys balance sheet, enabling it to conduct necessary maintenance and supporting the restructuring of the electricity market, he said. Legislative reform President Ramaphosa said government is pursuing sweeping legislative reforms, which will end the energy crisis once and for all. We have already introduced the Electricity Amendment Bill, which seeks to establish a competitive electricity market and support the unbundling of Eskom. This will fundamentally transform the electricity sector as we know it and will create a level playing field for multiple generators to participate in producing the energy that we need. We will soon introduce another key piece of legislation, the Energy Security Bill, to streamline the regulatory framework and accelerate the construction of renewable energy projects. I call on the Members of this House, from all political parties, to pass this critical legislation in record time, while adhering to required Parliamentary processes. We need to do so in months, not years, he said. Load shedding Turning to the current challenge of load shedding, President Ramaphosa appealed to South Africans to do their part, with a difficult winter ahead with demand set to rise. We can all make a difference by switching off lights and appliances when not in use, reducing the temperature by setting geysers to 60 degrees, installing a geyser blanket or geyser timer to save energy and reduce your electricity bill, and turn off unnecessary equipment like pool pumps. By taking these simple actions we can reduce demand by up to 1 000 MW, or one full stage of load shedding, he said. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2023-05-31. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition held at China Cultural Centre in Singapore Xinhua) 10:03, May 31, 2023 A visitor views paintings of the Song Dynasty (960-1279) during the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) People visit the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Visitors view paintings of the Song Dynasty (960-1279) during the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) People visit the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) At a meeting of Hopewells city council, Virginias Secretary of Finance Stephen Cummings urged the city to prioritize getting its finances in order weeks after a state-commissioned audit found as many as eight years of missing audits. This is a five-alarm fire. Its been burning at a five-alarm level for a long time, said Cummings. This cannot continue. Every year things get more challenging. Youve got to get to a position where you can see the light. The Tuesday meeting began with a closed session, which opened an hour later into a discussion with a representative of Alvarez and Marsal, the firm that conducted the citys audit. Nancy Zielke, a managing director with the consulting firm, flew in from Kansas City to attend the meeting. Zielke told city council members they were unlikely to receive a clean audit, meaning an audit in which the citys checkbooks are fully reconciled and explainable. The city needs at least three years of clean audits to regain its credit rating and without the credit rating, it cannot issue bonds. Without bonds, the city is handicapped financially because it cant generate money to fix roads or schools, or other capital projects. As council member Rita Joyner described it, You can see around this city, and you can see that we have needs desperate needs and we cant fund them. The meeting came roughly a month after the locality received findings from Alvarez and Marsal, the auditors hired late last year by the state Secretary of Finance. Their report found deficiencies in Hopewells finances: among them late or nonexistent annual financial audits and a backup of compliance reporting that could lead them losing millions of dollars in funding from grants. Zielke prescribed two short-term actions. The first was to create a team solely tasked with getting the city caught up on audits. The other was to create a temporary project management office to oversee the rehabbing of the citys financial department Get caught up, address internal controls, put in place better planning, as well as better oversight and reconciliation processes, said Zielke. Zielke fielded questions, as well as frustration, from officials in the council chamber. The meeting was live-streamed, and thus available to residents online. Vice Mayor Jasmine Gore said that members of the public watching may get the wrong impression about the ability of city council members to unilaterally tie up the citys financial problems. Some of the responsibility lies with past councilors, with past financial directors, and with a city treasurer who, as an elected official, is not an employee of the council or the city manager. Its important to understand our jurisdiction. From the outside looking in you would think we can snap our fingers and fix everything, but we cant, said Gore, who also represents Hopewells 4th Ward. Councilor Dominic R. Holloway, who represents Hopewells 7th ward, cautioned laying blame on the current treasurer, Shannon Foskey. Foskey was elected to the position in 2021. I dont want citizens going in whipping a lasso thinking, hey we need to replace the treasurer, said Holloway. These issues have been in place a long time. Hopewell has been plagued by staffing problems. Some have been exacerbated by city council, which has debated hiring decisions, in recent years. Last summer, Hopewells city manager left for a job in Petersburg, leaving the city with an interim manager, Concetta Manker, the citys former IT director. Councilor Brenda Pelham said they arrived where they are today because of inexperience in key areas of city government. She said city council should take responsibility for not holding those employees to higher standards. I dont think weve held our people accountable, our staff accountable. As a city councilor, Ill take that, said Pelham. Gore asked Cummings if the state would be able to offer more money to help the city pay for outside accounting help. At this point in time, we do not have additional resources, said Cummings, saying that the audit was already on the balance sheet of the Commonwealth. Cummings told councilors the financial repairs have to start with whats embedded in their budget and Hopewell starting to take ownership of fixing this problem. Del. Carrie Coyner, who represents Hopewell, was disappointed in the council members reaction to the states help. She said Cummings and Zielke had arrived with the expectation of being invited into the closed session to offer help on hiring decisions, but were not invited to do so. The result of the closed session was one appointment to the citys equalization department. Thats a disservice to this city. Its irresponsible to not even take their advice or listen to it, said Coyner. You have experts that have been paid by the state and youre not willing to listen to them because you dont want to make hard personnel decisions. The 50 places where homes are taking the longest to sell Where home sales are slowing down #50. Vallejo, CA #49. Boulder, CO #48. Greeley, CO #47. Topeka, KS #46. Hickory, NC #45. Provo, UT #44. Anaheim, CA #43. New Brunswick, NJ #42. Ocean City, NJ #41. Toledo, OH #40. Port St. Lucie, FL #39. Greenville, SC #38. Birmingham, AL #37. Riverside, CA #36. Los Angeles, CA #35. New Haven, CT #34. Sioux Falls, SD #33. Panama City, FL #32. Kennewick, WA #31. Milwaukee, WI #30. Fort Lauderdale, FL #29. Las Vegas, NV #28. Phoenix, AZ #27. Oxnard, CA #26. Austin, TX #25. Salem, OR #24. Knoxville, TN #23. Tucson, AZ #22. Prescott Valley, AZ #21. Reno, NV #20. Madison, WI #19. Pensacola, FL #18. New York, NY #17. Green Bay, WI #16. Bridgeport, CT #15. West Palm Beach, FL #14. Miami, FL #13. Appleton, WI #12. Tallahassee, FL #11. Asheville, NC #10. Elgin, IL #9. Lebanon, NH #8. Honolulu, HI #7. Pittsburgh, PA #6. Charleston, SC #5. Lake County, IL #4. Palm Bay, FL #3. Chicago, IL #2. Atlantic City, NJ #1. Myrtle Beach, SC #50. Hickory, NC metro area #49. Montgomery, AL metro area #48. Elgin, IL metro area #47. Bridgeport, CT metro area #46. Charlotte, NC metro area #45. Lake Havasu City, AZ metro area #44. Gary, IN metro area #43. Nassau County, NY metro area #42. Lakeland, FL metro area #41. Raleigh, NC metro area #40. McAllen, TX metro area #39. New Brunswick, NJ metro area #38. Riverside, CA metro area #37. Clarksville, TN metro area #36. Daphne, AL metro area #35. Lake County, IL metro area #34. Deltona, FL metro area #33. Tucson, AZ metro area #32. San Antonio, TX metro area #31. Nashville, TN metro area #30. Knoxville, TN metro area #29. Fort Lauderdale, FL metro area #28. Chicago, IL metro area #27. Phoenix, AZ metro area #26. Panama City, FL metro area #25. Pensacola, FL metro area #24. Greenville, SC metro area #23. Charleston, SC metro area #22. Jacksonville, FL metro area #21. Salem, OR metro area #20. Reno, NV metro area #19. Pittsburgh, PA metro area #18. New Orleans, LA metro area #17. Asheville, NC metro area #16. Spartanburg, SC metro area #15. Huntsville, AL metro area #14. Port St. Lucie, FL metro area #13. Palm Bay, FL metro area #12. Prescott Valley, AZ metro area #11. West Palm Beach, FL metro area #10. Miami, FL metro area #9. Las Vegas, NV metro area #8. Sebastian, FL metro area #7. Austin, TX metro area #6. Poughkeepsie, NY metro area #5. Honolulu, HI metro area #4. Boise City, ID metro area #3. Valdosta, GA metro area #2. New York, NY metro area #1. Myrtle Beach, SC metro area #50. Lafayette, Louisiana #49. Hagerstown, Maryland #48. Daphne, Alabama #47. Madison, Wisconsin #46. New Haven, Connecticut #45. Hickory, North Carolina #44. Birmingham, Alabama #43. Knoxville, Tennessee #42. Raleigh, North Carolina #41. New Brunswick, New Jersey #40. Riverside, California #39. Reno, Nevada #38. Lake County, Illinois #37. Ocala, Florida #36. Montgomery, Alabama #35. Asheville, North Carolina #34. Spartanburg, South Carolina #33. Elgin, Illinois #32. Deltona, Florida #31. Pittsburgh #30. Clarksville, Tennessee #29. Pensacola, Florida #28. Tucson, Arizona #27. San Antonio #26. Tallahassee, Florida #25. Nashville, Tennessee #24. Las Vegas #23. Phoenix #22. Chicago #21. McAllen, Texas #20. Huntsville, Alabama #19. Greenville, South Carolina #18. Charleston, South Carolina #17. Austin, Texas #16. Jacksonville, Florida #15. Salem, Oregon #14. Panama City, Florida #13. Fort Lauderdale, Florida #12. New Orleans #11. Prescott Valley, Arizona #10. Port St. Lucie, Florida #9. Miami #8. Poughkeepsie, New York #7. Palm Bay, Florida #6. West Palm Beach, Florida #5. Honolulu #4. Sebastian, Florida #3. New York City #2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina #1. Fort Smith, Arkansas Former Del. Lashrecse Aird, D-Petersburg, has unveiled a list of endorsements by 41 local government leaders including two that Sen. Joe Morrissey, D-Petersburg, already had claimed back him in a hard-fought Democratic primary campaign in the new 13th Senate District. Aird featured a list of endorsements where Morrissey had none Henrico County, with 35% of the registered voters in the new district. Ten elected officials in Henrico backed Aird over Morrissey, who previously represented part of the county in the House of Delegates but featured no one from the county when he released his list of local endorsements earlier in May. Our Henrico community is searching for dependable, compassionate and principled leadership and Lashrecse Aird is that leader, said Frank Thornton, current chair of the Henrico Board of Supervisors and representative of Fairfield District for 28 years. Throughout her tenure in the House of Delegates, Lashrecse fought for education funding, safer communities, social equality, and always for a womans right to choose. Morrissey, who previously lived in eastern Henrico, promised on Tuesday that he would counter with endorsements by a list of citizens not politicians in Henrico. In addition to Thornton, one of the longest-serving Black elected officials in the Richmond region, Aird is backed by Sen. Lamont Bagby, D-Henrico, chairman of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, which already had announced that it endorsed her; and Tyrone Nelson, vice-chairman of the board and an influential power broker in Henrico Democratic politics. Other Henrico leaders endorsing Aird are: Del. Schuyler VanValkenburg, D-Henrico, Del. Rodney Willett, D-Henrico, and Del. Delores McQuinn, D-Richmond, who represent parts of the county; former Del. Debra Rodman, D-Henrico; Commonwealths Attorney Shannon Taylor; Sheriff Alisa Gregory, who has tangled publicly with Morrissey over his conduct while visiting an inmate at the Henrico Jail; and Alicia Atkins, vice-chair of the school board. The district also includes the cities of Petersburg and Hopewell; Prince George, Sussex, Charles City and Surry counties and part of Dinwiddie County. Morrissey has focused his campaign largely on Petersburg, where he said he now lives, and other parts of the Tri-Cities area. Earlier in May, he featured endorsements by Petersburg Mayor Sam Parham, five members of city council and two members of the school board, and two other former city officials. But Marlow Jones, one of the Petersburg council members Morrissey claimed had endorsed him, later endorsed Aird publicly on his Facebook page and was among local endorsements she touted on Tuesday. He confirmed that he has endorsed Aird. Aird also featured endorsements by Petersburg Council member Annette Smith-Lee and recently retired Council member Treska Wilson-Smith; former Mayor Annie Mickens; Sheriff Vanessa Crawford; Treasurer Paul Mullin; Commissioner of the Revenue Brittany Flowers; school board members Steven Pierce, Joyce Proctor, Adrian Dance and Lois Long; and two members of the Petersburg Economic Development Authority, Chairman Samuel Rhue and Lafayette Jefferson, a longtime adversary of Morrissey. Jones wasnt the only local leader whose endorsement was claimed by both candidates. Airds announcement quoted Chickahominy Indian Tribe Chief Stephen Adkins, of Charles City County, as saying, Lashrecse Aird is a person of compassion, dedication and integrity whose ethics are driven by a strong moral compass. Her staff sent screenshots of the text that Adkins had sent Aird with the tribute. But Morrissey also featured Adkins in a rollout of his local endorsements in early May. A Morrissey ad quoted Adkins as saying, Ive known Joe for over 20 years as both a Delegate and a Senator. Whenever I called Joe and requested something, he delivered...and thats a fact! Heres another fact: Joe loves Charles City County. The senator said he spoke with Adkins on Tuesday after Aird released her endorsements and the chief confirmed that he still backs him. Adkins could not be reached for comment, despite several telephone and text messages. Morrissey said he stands by his announced endorsements. The people who know us who have worked with both of us have endorsed me, he said. But Aird also featured a comment from Mickens, the former Petersburg mayor, who said she had supported Morrissey in his successful primary fight against Sen. Rosalyn Dance, D-Petersburg, and subsequent election in 2019. The City of Petersburg deserves a leader that is trustworthy, has lived the same struggles of the people in this community and will put the needs of our city above anything else, Mickens said in Airds announcement. In Hopewell, where Morrissey had shown support from several current and previous elected leaders, Aird said she had been endorsed by: Vice Mayor Jasmine Gore, City Council members Michael Harris and Dominic Holloway; School Board Chairman John Griffin; and former Vice Mayor Wayne Walton. Aird claimed endorsements in Dinwiddie County from: Board of Supervisors member Brenda Ebron-Bonner; Treasurer Jennifer Perkins; Sheriff Duck Adams; School Board members Mary Benjamin and Sherilynn Merritt; and Sharon Yates, director of secondary education for the school system. In Surry County, she featured endorsements by: Board of Supervisors member Judy Lyttle; Earrett Parsons, an elected member of the Peanut Soil and Water Conservation District; and Nancy Rodrigues, former secretary of the Virginia Board of Elections. Aird said she also is backed by Sussex County Sheriff Ernest Giles, former Prince George County Commissioner of the Revenue Virginia Duncan; and former Charles City Board of Supervisors member Sherri Bowman. Jeff E. Schapiro Follow Jeff E. Schapiro Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Terry McAuliffe may be a loser electorally speaking, that is but some Democratic legislative candidates are betting the former governors endorsement will make them winners. McAuliffe, narrowly defeated in 2021 by Republican Glenn Youngkin for another go as governor, is among a slew of high-profile politicos Democrats and Republicans issuing endorsements in some of their parties more contentious nominating contests, seemingly violating the 11th Commandment: Dont speak ill of a member of your own party. As a candidate for California governor, Ronald Reagan famously invoked it in 1966, referring to fellow Republicans. But over the years, Democrats have adopted the axiom as their own. In 2023, though, with both parties in Virginia enduring wrenching fights in brand-new districts for nominations for House of Delegates and the state Senate, big-name endorsements are flying fast and furious. They are, at minimum, a way for candidates to introduce themselves to voters who because of the reshuffling that is redistricting and the accompanying rush of retirements may know little about them ahead of what can be thinly attended primaries. These marquee endorsements are also a measure of how politics is changing. Parties increasingly are subordinated to personality and ideology a trend that has accelerated in the Trump era and have become stubbornly uniform in their outlook. Democrats are lurching further left and Republicans, further right. Theres little about either party that resembles a big tent. Its just entirely different from a generation ago, said Mark Rozell, a Virginia elections analyst at George Mason University, attributing the shift, in part, to the rise of social media through which an individuals brand overshadows that of an institution such as a political party. Indeed, Gov. George Allen, a Republican who served from 1994 until 1998, steadfastly refused to make nomination endorsements, aiming to minimize tensions between the GOPs economic and culture-focused wings. Primaries and conventions were, as Allen put it, intra-squad scrimmages from which Republicans should emerge unified, though that wasnt always the case. The centrist grandees of the Democratic Party, during its re-emergence in the 1980s after more than a decade of right-on-left infighting, could be similarly circumspect. Among the few times they embraced a consensus nominee a former party chairman and legislator for the U.S. Senate in 1982 it disastrously backfired when a Black state senator and future governor, Doug Wilder, threatened an independent candidacy that would have doomed Democrats by draining vital minority votes. Youngkin, whose administration will sink or be saved by the General Assembly midterm elections, has already picked candidates in nine nominating contests, so far, racking up two early wins. And with primaries just under three weeks away, the governor could issue other endorsements, perhaps in bitter, closely watched House and Senate primaries in Southwest Virginia and suburban Richmond, respectively. For Youngkin, who has raised nearly $3 million this year for the legislative elections and is certain to harvest much more, his endorsements spotlight two objectives: to restore full Republican control of the legislature the House is Republican, the Senate, Democratic and improve his presidential bona fides by demonstrating to a national audience that he retains standing in a blue-trending state, where only one of his three preferred congressional candidates was elected in 2022. The guy wants to run for president and he cant deliver on a party nomination in a local House of Delegates race? said Rozell. Thats not the narrative he wants. However, the governor whose north-of-50% approval rating magnifies his appeal to Republican candidates is learning that endorsements have a downside, irritating, if not angering, those he shuns. Matt Strickland, a restaurateur in the Fredericksburg area who had criticized Youngkins rollback of coronavirus restrictions as insufficient, attacked him as a RINO Republican in Name Only after Youngkin announced his support of Del. Tara Durant for a Senate nomination. Hermie Sadler, a race car driver running for a Southside Senate seat, is described as steamed over Youngkins preference for Del. Emily Brewer. With such historic turnover in the General Assembly, one that previous governors didnt face, Gov. Youngkin has a unique opportunity to make an impact in these races earlier than ever before, Dave Rexrode, the veteran strategist who heads Youngkins PAC, said in a written statement. There is an internal dimension to this external maneuvering. Another of Youngkins strategists, Matt Moran, operates a political consultancy in Richmond whose clients include at least four Republicans endorsed by the governor in big nomination battles. Could there be concerns within Youngkinworld that Moran, as a paid adviser to the governor, is in a position to influence decisions by Youngkin favorable to Morans clients that could help him or his firm? No comment Wednesday from the Youngkin organization. If only because bygones are bygones and because partisan politics is in his DNA McAuliffe is even backing former adversaries. Seeking renomination against Del. Sally Hudson in a Charlottesville-anchored Senate district, incumbent Creigh Deeds, who beat McAuliffe in the 2009 Democratic gubernatorial primary, trumpets McAuliffes endorsement. Deeds is also backed by former Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn; Hudsons predecessor, former House Minority Leader David Toscano, and one of Deeds former Senate colleagues: former Gov. Ralph Northam. Hudson is supported by Don Scott, the current House Democratic leader and likely speaker should his party win back the House two years after it slipped Republican on Youngkins coattails, as well as more than 30 current and former delegates and local elective officials. Dueling endorsements, particularly on the Democratic side, speak to the tensions shaping the party: an older, moderate establishment ilk given to incremental change versus younger, aggressive liberals pushing for immediate breakthroughs. For Republicans, its what remains of the corporate right versus the populist right. Youngkins victory, for the most part, has kept these rival camps in synch. But both parties should not only anticipate difficulties, but more of them, fueled by demographic change, economic upheaval and social friction. As Susan Swecker, Virginia Democratic chairwoman, said with a note of understatement, We have been at a different place in a lot of different ways over the past few years. Gov. Glenn Youngkin said Wednesday that he is sending 100 Virginia National Guard troops to the U.S. border with Mexico at the request of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to help secure the border and reduce the flow of fentanyl. The soldiers will leave in July. Youngkin said he is working with outgoing Adjutant General of Virginia Maj. Gen. Timothy P. Williams and his successor, Brig. Gen. James W. Ring, to determine exactly which units will deploy members. Five Virginians every day die of fentanyl overdoses, and it comes from Mexico, human trafficking here means every state is a border state, he said. Youngkins executive directive says he is deploying targeted resources in response to a request from Texas to address what he termed the Ongoing Southern U.S. Border Crisis. Youngkin said Texas asked for assistance from all states and territories through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, of which Virginia is a founding member. Iowa and Florida are among other states that are sending Guard troops to assist Texas. Texas has 6,000 troops on the border, and they need help, he said. The governors of West Virginia and South Carolina also announced deployments of state resources to Texas this week. Youngkin said he is acting because federal efforts are falling short. Abbott first deployed Texas National Guard to the border in 2021, in a move that sparked criticism that it was an overreach of state power and mostly a political move aimed at criticizing President Joe Bidens efforts. In early May, Abbott launched a new border initiative, with specially trained National Guard soldiers as well as Blackhawk helicopters and C-130 cargo planes. Since 2021, Texas National Guard soldiers and state Department of Public Safety troopers have apprehended more than 373,000 people without legal immigration visas, arrested more than 28,000 on criminal charges and seized more than 400 million lethal doses of fentanyl. Youngkins order drew an immediate accusation from Democratic legislators that it was just a political stunt. Youngkin for President has officially jumped the shark, state Sen. Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, tweeted. Our VA National Guard troops shouldnt be used to further presidential ambitions much less fight a MAGA culture war in Texas of all places. Never thought I would see my state so compromised, he added. Del. Elizabeth Guzman, D-Prince William, said in a statement: Virginias National Guard members are willing to uproot their lives at any moment ... they should not be asked to leave their jobs and families for a political stunt to advance Gov. Youngkins presidential ambitions. Although pundits and anonymous sources periodically say Youngkin is interested in running for national office, he has said he has no plans to run this year and that Virginia is his priority as lawmakers seek to finalize the state budget and fall elections will settle control of the legislature. It is so humbling that there is an expectation that I might do this, Youngkin said in late May. And it is also encouraging that they like what were doing in Virginia. But Im going to continue to focus on Virginia. House Speaker Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah, said he supported Youngkins National Guard order in the strongest possible terms. Drug cartels smuggle their lethal poison into our country among the thousands of migrants who are trafficked across the border every day. He said lack of federal action made states responses necessary. On the southern border, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and his team are doing the work that President Biden should have been doing, he said. Del. Tony Wilt, R-Rockingham, chairman of the House Public Safety Committee, said in a statement that the deployment will assist with the humanitarian crisis that has developed due to the Presidents inaction. He said the deployment will save lives on the border and in Virginia. Biden last month announced that 1,500 active-duty troops would be sent to the border, where they would join about 2,500 National Guard members already deployed. 31 photos from The Times-Dispatch archives Air Force Women Broad St. Broad St. Central State Hospital Cloverleaf Mall Country Club of Virginia Dogwood Dell Folk Dancing Hull St. Station Jackson Ward Jackson Ward Reunion Mail box Mailboxes Monroe Park Mooer's Field Noldes Bread O.K. Foundry Piccadilly Cafeteria Remote Controlled Cars Reynolds Metals Richmond Day Richmond Symphony Salt Sobles South Side Health Center The Diamond VA State Capitol VCU Gym Westhamtpon School YWCA Dave Ress (804) 649-6948 @DaveRess1 on Twitter A rationale behind the nomination of Greg Coleman to the Hanover County School Board failed to place public education above religious dogma. While I had several outstanding candidates, after interviewing them all I nominated (Coleman) because he is a strong Christian with leadership experience and he has kids in Hanover schools, giving him firsthand knowledge of the issues faced by parents of school children, Monolo said in a Hanover County news release. I felt he would do the best job advocating for parents and children in our schools. I am fine with Coleman being Christian. But I am uneasy about his Christian faith being trumpeted as a qualification for service on the board. To do so suggests that Hanover residents who adhere to Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism or atheism need not apply. Beyond that, it raises concerns about whether non-Christians who work in the school district or who are being educated by it will be treated equitably. Nowadays, so-called conservatives love the Constitution, at least in theory. But in practice, their application of the document is spotty and selective. There is no oath to the Constitution that cannot be tossed aside in the name of power politics, or for an insurrection to overthrow the results of a presidential election. And while the Second Amendment a passage that begins with a well regulated militia is interpreted broadly, literal words in the First Amendment are disregarded. Book bans and government censorship? Yes, please! The wall separating church and state? Hand me a battering ram. Dont believe me? Try Article VI, Clause III of the U.S. Constitution, which states no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States. In Hanover, the appointments of Redd and Coleman suggest a religious test is in full effect. Monolo said the quiet part out loud. But so-called Christian values in the political sphere ill-serve public policy and civil discourse. The vinegary nature of deliberations and decision-making on the Hanover School Board vividly illustrate the corrosive impact. My growing fear of this destructive mix and an invitation from Ginter Park Presbyterian Church landed me in the pulpit on a recent Sunday to preach a cautionary laymans sermon about the weaponization of faith toward un-Christlike ends. A chunk of our fellow citizens seem to be spoiling for a theocracy, or an autocracy, not a democracy. White Christian nationalism which I would assert has everything to do with white and next to nothing to do with Christian, is in vogue; a pluralistic society is not, I said. It seems to me that the more religious this nation becomes, the meaner people have gotten. That certainly seems to be the case on the Hanover School Board, which too frequently fails to disguise its antipathy toward residents who do not share its agenda. Our nations autocratic drift has a terrifying number of folks willing to reelect an amoral man who has pledged to pardon a large portion of participants in an insurrection he stoked. Some folks at that violent uprising on Jan. 6, 2021, carried signs that read, JESUS IS MY SAVIOR; TRUMP IS MY PRESIDENT. This insane idolatry coincides with a decline in the percentage of Americans who call themselves Christian. While nine out of 10 Americans were Christian 50 years ago, that number is now closer to two-thirds. Christians in the U.S. could fall below a majority by 2070, according to the Pew Research Center. Those numbers mirror racial and ethnic trends that project a majority-minority nation before the middle of this century. This prediction comes with flawed political assumptions and is complicated by the fact that numerous Latinos define themselves as white. But it might help explain anti-immigrant posturing, the surge of white Christian nationalism and the bizarre deification of Trump. This toxic form of Christianity is at loggerheads with a pluralistic, multicultural democracy. The politicians who talk so much about indoctrination are projecting their agenda and creating a potentially hostile work and school environment for those who do not share their religious beliefs. Elected officials who elevate a single faith above others are failing a basic American test. They are unworthy of overseeing public education. The Times-Dispatch's 'Photo of the Day' Jan. 1, 2023 Jan. 2, 2023 Jan. 3, 2023 Jan. 4, 2023 Jan. 5, 2023 Jan. 6, 2023 Jan. 7, 2023 Jan. 8, 2023 Jan. 10, 2023 GET THE NEW TIMES-DISPATCH APP Jan. 11, 2023 Jan. 12, 2023 Jan. 13, 2023 Jan. 14, 2023 Jan. 15, 2023 Jan. 16, 2023 Jan. 17, 2023 Jan. 18, 2023 Jan. 19, 2023 Jan. 20, 2023 Jan. 21, 2023 Jan. 22, 2023 Jan. 23, 2023 Jan. 24, 2023 Jan. 25, 2023 Jan. 26, 2023 Jan. 27, 2023 Jan. 28, 2023 Jan. 29, 2023 Jan. 30, 2023 Jan. 31, 2023 Feb. 1, 2023 Feb. 2, 2023 Feb. 3, 2023 Feb. 4, 2023 Feb. 5, 2023 Feb. 6, 2023 Feb. 7, 2023 Feb. 8, 2023 Feb. 9, 2023 Feb. 10, 2023 Feb 11, 2023 Feb. 12, 2023 Feb. 13, 2023 Feb. 14, 2023 Feb. 15, 2023 Feb. 16, 2023 Feb. 17, 2023 Feb. 18, 2023 Feb. 19, 2023 Feb. 20, 2023 Feb. 21, 2023 Feb. 22, 2023 Feb. 23, 2023 Feb. 24, 2023 Feb. 25, 2023 Feb. 26, 2023 Feb. 27, 2023 Feb. 28, 2023 March 1, 2023 March 2, 2023 March 3, 2023 March 4, 2023 March 5, 2023 March 6, 2023 March 7, 2023 March 8, 2023 March 9, 2023 March 10, 2023 March 11, 2023 March 12, 2023 March 13, 2023 March 14, 2023 March 15, 2023 March 16, 2023 March 17, 2023 March 18, 2023 March 19, 2023 March 20, 2023 March 21, 2023 March 22, 2023 March 23, 2023 March 24, 2023 March 25, 2023 March 26, 2023 March 27, 2023 March 28, 2023 March 29, 2023 March 30, 2023 March 31, 2023 April 1, 2023 April 2, 2023 April 3, 2023 April 4, 2023 April 5, 2023 April 6, 2023 April 7, 2023 April 8, 2023 April 9, 2023 April 10, 2023 April 11, 2023 April 13, 2023 April 14, 2023 April 15, 2023 April 16, 2023 GET THE NEW TIMES-DISPATCH APP April 17, 2023 April 18, 2023 April 19, 2023 April 20, 2023 April 21, 2023 April 22, 2023 April 23, 2023 April 24, 2023 April 25, 2023 April 26, 2023 April 27, 2023 April 28, 2023 April 29, 2023 May 1, 2023 May 2, 2023 May 3, 2023 May 4, 2023 May 5, 2023 May 6, 2023 May 7, 2023 May 8, 2023 May 9, 2023 May 10, 2023 May 11, 2023 May 12, 2023 May 13, 2023 May 14, 2023 May 15, 2023 May 16, 2023 May 17, 2023 May 18, 2023 May 19, 2023 May 20, 2023 May 21, 2023 May 22, 2023 May 23, 2023 May 24, 2023 May 25, 2023 May 26, 2023 May 27, 2023 May 28, 2023 May 30, 2023 May 31, 2023 June 1, 2023 June 2, 2023 Italian woman shot to death in central Playa del Carmen coffee shop Playa del Carmen, Q.R. A woman in a centrally located Playa del Carmen cafe was shot and killed early Tuesday. The shooting happened around 9:30 a.m. on 48th Street in Colosio. Police and emergency personnel were at the scene of the shooting after receiving 911 reports. Responding paramedics confirmed the death of the woman who has been identified as Ornella N of Italy. She was reportedly an employee of the coffee shop. Early Tuesday afternoon, Solidaridad police of Playa del Carmen issued a public briefing saying around 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, the Secretariat of Public Security and Municipal Transit of Solidaridad responded to a report of firearm detonations on 48th Street between 5th and 10th Avenues and immediately implemented a search operation with the characteristics of the person responsible. Witnesses report that a male on a motorcycle dressed in a gray shirt shot the person who lost her life. Police were able to get a description from witnesses of the man and his motorcycle responsible for firing the deadly shots. The motorcycle was located by authorities Tuesday, but not the shooter. The motorbike was found on 20th Avenue and 52nd Street. Late Tuesday night, the State Attorney General of Quintana Roo posted a brief statement regarding the shooting. The FGE Quintana Roo reports that progress is being made in the investigation to clarify the facts where a foreign woman lost her life in an establishment in the municipality of Solidaridad. The authorities of this autonomous body announce that the motorcycle used by the aggressors of this crime was located and the search continues. Man detained in Felipe Carrillo Puerto narcotics operation Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Q.R. One male was removed from an alleged drug house in Felipe Carrillo Puerto during a narcotics operation Monday. His detainment took place Monday evening after police searched three homes simultaneously. The private home in the residential area of Juan Bautista was searched as part of the police operation. Miguel C was removed from the home in handcuffs after authorities located a variety of narcotics, a loaded handgun, ammo and cash in both Mexican pesos and USD. The three homes were targeted for a search after recent investigations involving a variety of criminal acts throughout the area. Agents of the Attorney Generals Office seized all three Felipe Carrillo Puerto homes. Lee Oser takes on woke witch-hunts, corporate corruption, DEI checkpoints, and HR mandates in a novel that will have you both laughing and asking which headlines these plot points were cribbed from. As far back as the 1960s, novelist Philip Roth declared that reality in the United States was outpacing the creative capacities of the writer of fiction. The actuality is continually outdoing our talents, he wrote back then, and the culture tosses up figures daily that are the envy of any novelist. Some 30 years later, Tom Wolfe endorsed Roths lament: We now live in an age in which the imagination of the novelist lies helpless before what he knows he will read in tomorrow mornings newspaper, although that did not keep Wolfe from energetically tackling in fiction again and again what he called the billion-footed beast of the contemporary scene. Neither does it keep Lee Oser, some 30 years after Wolfes remark, from doing the same in his latest novel, Old Enemies, subtitled A Satire. But things that might have been satirical not that long ago can now seem startlingly and simply real to readers who have lived through the recent years of turmoil and change in America that form both the subject and theme of this amusing but still serious work, a multilayered story combining elements from campus radicalism, curricular demolition, corporate tyranny, and media corruption. For example, a Howard Zinnlike character is named Arnold Benedict Dopp, a satiric stretch maybe, but the title of Dopps book, One Nation under White Supremacynot much of a stretch at all. Militant, violence-prepped students who believe that western civilization must be destroyed in order to give birth to something new? Seems pretty familiar by now. Part of the enjoyment for the reader is going back and forth between the two categories of recognition: how much seems real and how much is over the top. Author Lee Oser teaches religion and literature at the College of the Holy Cross, a Jesuit institution in Worcester, Massachusetts. He had four novels to his credit before this one, in addition to literary criticism with a focus on Christian humanism, from Shakespeare to T.S. Eliot. And it seems everything he has taught and written is distilled into Old Enemies. The main character and narrator is a journalist blacklisted from mainstream outlets (for confronting a powerful female colleague with faking an anonymous source) who now writes advertising copy for a trade journal. Moses Shea, of Jewish and mostly Irish Catholic background, past middle age and unlovely of appearance, is steeped in tradition, especially Roman Catholic. His much-loved father was a world-renowned, slightly heretical theologian especially inspirational to young Catholics of the postwar era. Moses has not been exactingly observant or completely faithful, but the richness of the tradition is an intrinsic part of his makeup and grows richer as he must confront various encroaching nemeses. At a tech fair in Las Vegas, seemingly by accident he meets an old friend and one-time amorous rival from his youth and Harvard days, the hugely successful billionaire Nick Carty, who offers him a lucrative position on a fledgling project: creating high-level, super-sophisticated advertising campaigns seeking niche markets for new upscale services and products. Nick is very much a man of the technological age but nevertheless knows there is power in the past, the human touch, and the poetry of advertising that Moses understands. Thanks to his globetrotting scholar-father, Moses is fluent in languages and in language itself. Indeed, through him language becomes a kind of character in the book. A words full power is rarely present to the conscious mind, he explains at one point. The root of a word may be buried beneath its current usages, but that doesnt mean its dead. Good writers will always be aware of the root. A good writer will be conscious of the past, because the past is with us in the words we use. The project team consists of a half dozen bright and good-looking young programmers of varied backgrounds and proclivities, titans of computer science whod made the crossover into the humanities, as the novel would have it, who believe they can serve justice while also collecting a juicy paycheck. The crew will live and work together on the partially ruined but still pastoral campus of a former Great Books Catholic college, St. Malachy in Massachusetts, now owned by and named after Nicks Carthage Corporation. (The college did its best to absorb the new politically correct academic trends but was wrecked by Antifa-inspired riots anyway.) Rome and Carthage are among the oldest of old enemies; the dorms on campus renovated for the project are now named Dido Hall, and both the campus and New York corporate headquarters feature a bust of Tanit, the pagan Carthaginian goddess. A belligerent female head of security periodically intimidates Moses, but his most conspicuous enemy is a commissar feminist, the rather deliciously repellent Ann Fitz (a shortened last name suggesting truncated Irish Catholic heritage?), the project manager, also younger than Moses, who takes an instant dislike to him. Ann seems to have grown fully armored from identity politics with nothing else attached, and she burns at hearing Moses literary references and linguistic nuances, which she sees as patriarchal mind control and racist fantasies. Im more convinced than ever that we need to simply destroy him, she writes in an email leaked to Moses. His influence on these young people is simply appalling. A zany episode with an escaped octopus and the appearance of the Pi symbol in some graffiti (Western math, a construction of whiteness) helps precipitate a sort of diversity crackdown; Ann warns the staff about systemic racism and emphasizes the values of Carthage, which begin to look explicitly anti-Christian and anti-American. In woke piety she exhorts, Let us join together in our determination to end acts of hatred in the community we aspire to, adding solicitously that the experience of hate can be traumatic. If you would like one of our counselors to visit you, please reach out to Human Resources. But when one of the young people takes Anns bait and delivers a tirade that grows unintentionally comical about needing to hunt out whiteness in every room in every house, in the attic, the kitchen, the cellar, the den, under the rug, in the bathroom and in the plumbing, her peer colleagues who have begun to see more clearly that algorithms are not racist tell her you dont know what youre talking about and break for beer. New characters file in, alarming developments unfold, plots unwind, secrets emerge, allies appear, conversions happen toward the good side, and efforts are instigated to win back the college to its former mission as a sanctuary for liberal learning and Christian wisdom. So much works in this short but packed satire that it can seem captious to fuss about what doesnt, but the aspect that parodies classic detective fiction doesnt resonate, with its forced metaphors and similes and a sort of sexual thing with an improbable gray-haired femme fatale. Some unnecessary vulgarity is perhaps meant to suggest the hard-boiled genre, although it didnt appear back then and is a contemporary addition. More appealing is the way tradition winds its way through the woke wreckage, this new version of the old enemy, the world of official and unofficial lies about human nature and reality and the country and the West that Moses must navigate. Landmarks emerge as needed, a line from the Sermon on the Mount, something from Flaubert, quotations in Latin, the charming Griffin Cafe near the campus with a foot in the American past forming a beachhead in the present. The sinister atmosphere both on the campus and in the wider world of journalism cant suffocate the accumulated wealth of human understanding still alive in this postmodern, post-historical setting. When Moses, having survived all the smears against him, is offered a job at the pinnacle of contemporary journalism, the Times Times, he finds a poster on the wall demanding that no one enter who does not pledge commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Since he wont do that, the guard (female again) gives him a verbal quiz, which results in his deliberately missing the DEI point of every prompt: RACEOlympics; WHITENESSpaper; SPACEtime; SYSTEMICcirculatory; INTERSECTIONALITYcrosswalk, are among his answers that make the reader laugh but also testifies to the persistence of reality running parallel to current cultural politics. Admitted anyway, he learns that the editors have assembled a scoring guide, the greater the intersectionality, the more valuable the work. Thanks to Nicks largesse, he doesnt need the job and can go on to more hopeful things. The Times Times may still be at the pinnacle. But, Moses muses, the dreamworld woven on our screens by those who spin the narratives and double down on their mendacity without a sense of shamesuch sorcery is doomed in the natural order of things. Luck runs out. Time to climb a serious mountain and do a reality check. And doing that through this satire is a good place to begin. Most plays start when the lights go up. For this play, the story gets underway when the lights go off! But all will become clear in Attic Productions presentation of the Agatha Christie classic Murder on the Orient Express, which runs for one more weekend, Friday through Sunday. Murder on the Orient Express is one of Christies many novels about the adventures of Belgian detective Hercule Poirot a gentleman of refined good humor and keen intuition who regularly finds himself sorting out the lurid goings-on among the early 20th century English and European jet set. As with several of Christies stories, this one revolves around a group of people thrown together by circumstances, or so it appears in this case on a train departing from Istanbul on its way northwest toward Paris. When one of the passengers meets with foul play, and the local constabulary cant reach the train because of a snowstorm, it is up to Poirot to conduct the investigation. Christie fans will be very much at home with Lyle Blake Smythers delightful portrayal of this iconic figure of the mystery genre. Brian Lee is thoroughly enjoyable as the larger-than-life train company executive Constantine Bouc, while Gene Marrano infuses the efficient conductor Michel with continental charm. The passengers are portrayed by Emma Boyer as the stylish but inscrutable Mary Debenham; Jason Palmer as Col. James Arbuthnot, full of British bluster; Wendy Claunch as the flamboyant and outspoken Helen Hubbard; Kelli Hobson as the dignified and unflappable Countess Elena Andrenyi; Sally Miller as the elegant and kindly Princess Natalya Dragomiroff; Angela McNeil as the princess modest and rather anxious travel companion, Greta Ohlsson; Paul Mullins as the loud and abrasive Samuel Ratchett; and Simon Adkins as Ratchetts dutiful and earnest assistant Hector McQueen. Not to be overlooked is Raevien Claighborne as the imperious Headwaiter in the opening sequence, as well as a substantial company of supporting players. As good as the actors are, the technical crew members also deserve kudos for their work. Among the highlights are their able wrangling of some fairly large and detailed set pieces, a spot-on vintage wardrobe for the characters, great sound effects for the train and some particularly nice lighting effects. Director David Walton, who also did Attics highly enjoyable production of Moon Over Buffalo, has done a fine job of bringing award-winning playwright Ken Ludwigs 2017 adaptation of this Christie favorite to the stage. Audiences will no doubt revel in joining Poirot as he pieces together the clues to solve this unexpected whodunit. A Pulaski County man and woman were found dead Tuesday after a shooting inside a residence. Jimmy Ray Brewer III, 27, and Ashley Nicole Ray, 25, both of Dublin, were pronounced dead by rescue workers who found them in the Tiny Town Mobile Home Park, located on Wilderness Road east of Dublin and near Interstate 81s Exit 101, a news release from the county sheriffs office said. According to the news release, multiple gunshots were reported at the mobile home at about 6:20 p.m., and the sheriffs office was told there might be two victims inside. Officers found Brewer and Ray. There also were two children in the residence, neither of whom was harmed, the news release said. The children were taken to a neighbors home until the Department of Social Services could arrive, the news release said. Virginia State Police, the Dublin Police Department and Pulaski County Public Safety also assisted after the shooting, the news release said. No other details were given about the shooting, except that the news release said that no one else seemed to be involved. The incident was determined to be isolated and no further threat to the public existed, the news release said. The sheriffs office is continuing to investigate. The tragic murder-suicide that claimed two family members lives last week occurred when the father shot his son, then himself, Roanoke County police said Wednesday. Two hikers found the bodies of 17-year-old Christian Chris Lambert and 62-year-old Lewis James Jimmy Lambert Jr. at about 6 a.m. Friday in the McAfee Knob trailhead parking lot off Catawba Valley Drive (Virginia 311). At this stage of the police investigation, it appears that Lewis Lambert killed the male juvenile then committed suicide, Roanoke County police said in a press release issued Wednesday afternoon. Police also confirmed that Lewis Lambert was a person of interest in an arson investigation in the city of Roanoke. Lewis Lamberts home and another residence caught fire around 3:30 a.m. Friday, hours before he and his adoptive son were found dead. The Roanoke County Police Department is working alongside the Roanoke city arson investigators to provide them with any and all evidence collected from the scene to assist in their investigation, Roanoke County police said. Chris Lambert, who worked at Roanokes Texas Roadhouse restaurant, was set to graduate next week from Patrick Henry High School. In the coming days or weeks, a federal court could decide whether construction of the Mountain Valley Pipeline should remain on hold while it considers the latest of many lawsuits filed by opponents. Whatever the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals does, it could be undone by Congress. As part of a proposed agreement to suspend the national debt ceiling and limit government spending, the Fourth Circuit would lose its jurisdiction to hear any challenge of a government permit issued to Mountain Valley. That includes a recent case, filed by environmental groups in April, that questions an opinion by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which found that building the massive natural gas pipeline would not jeopardize endangered and threatened species in its path. On Sunday, details were released of a bipartisan bill that would raise the debt ceiling in order to avoid a government default. To the surprise of many, the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 also contains language that would expedite completion of Mountain Valley mandating approval of permits and largely removing judicial review. We really feel like thats a bad way to make public policy, in terms of separation of powers, said Peter Anderson, Virginia policy director for Appalachian Voices, one of the groups that is fighting the pipeline in court. Why are we picking winners and losers, when expert agencies are there for a reason? he asked. Why is Congress substituting its judgement for theirs? As a June 5 deadline approaches, after which the federal government will not be able to pay its bills unless the debt ceiling is raised, efforts are underway to remove the Mountain Valley provision from the bill. Rep. Jennifer McClellan, D-Virginia, announced Tuesday that she has submitted an amendment to the House Rules Committee that would strip from the 99-page bill four pages that deal with the pipeline, which she said has nothing to do with national spending. This provision is a free pass for the pipeline and sidesteps our nations environmental laws and judicial review processes, McClellan said in a statement that was supported by her five Democratic colleagues from Virginia. In the Senate, where the bill will go if it passes the House, Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia, said he has similar plans for an anti-pipeline amendment. Sen. Kaine is extremely disappointed by the provision of the bill to greenlight the controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline in Virginia, bypassing the normal judicial and administrative review process every other energy project has to go through, his office said in a statement. Although Virginias other senator, Democrat Mark Warner, is opposed to the Mountain Valley part of the bill, he does not support defaulting on our nations debt, a spokesperson in his office said. He plans to vote for the bill. Rep. Morgan Griffith, a Republican through whose 9th District the pipeline runs on its path through the New River and Roanoke valleys, said he was reading the legislation Tuesday. At first blush, I will likely vote no, but am currently taking a longer look at it, he said through a spokesperson. As for the Mountain Valley Pipeline, Im not sure how it relates to the debt ceiling. Since construction of the 303-mile pipeline began in Feb. 2018, it has faced strong opposition from Southwest Virginia residents and environmental groups, who say running a 42-inch diameter pipe along steep slopes and through streams and rivers will mar the areas scenic landscapes and contaminate its water. State regulators have cited the project more than 400 times with violating erosion and sedimentation control regulations. At least a dozen times, the Richmond-based Fourth Circuit has set aside approvals for the pipeline after they were challenged by opponents, who argued that government agencies failed to control problems that include muddy runoff from construction sites. That has frustrated Sen. Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, who favors a pipeline that starts in his state before crossing into Virginia on its way to connecting with an existing pipeline near the North Carolina line. Manchin who supports permitting reforms for fossil fuel projects in general and Mountain Valley in particular was instrumental in having the provision attached to the current financial bill. Its just ridiculous, Manchin said of the delays encountered by Mountain Valley, which had planned to have the $6.6 billion project in service by late 2018. Were the only civilized nation that has this type of process thats just almost intended to stop things, versus making sure that we have reliable energy for our country, Manchin said Tuesday, speaking to reporters in a Zoom news conference. Manchin said legal battles have prevented Mountain Valley from completing construction and performing final restoration, which would include planting vegetation on the buried pipelines 125-foot wide right-of-way to control erosion. The debt ceiling bill would set a 21-day deadline for approval by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the pipeline to cross the remaining streams and wetlands along its route. That is the last major permit the project lacks, although others face lawsuits. Also included in the bill is language that would prohibit nearly all challenges of government permits for Mountain Valley. Any claim challenging the law itself would be heard by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, which is seen by some as being more accepting of the pipeline than the Fourth Circuit. Were not trying to skip any review process. Were not trying to eliminate that, Manchin said. What were trying to do is basically accelerate either a yea or a nay. Manchin says the pipeline, which Mountain Valley hopes to complete by years end, is needed to provide a more reliable supply of natural gas and to bolster the nations energy security. Weve been building pipelines through the mountains forever. Its not new. Its not rocket science. Theyve just got to do their job and do it right, Manchin said. But you cant have the court holding you up from doing things and then basically claiming they are in violation because the court wouldnt let them fix things. Animosity is afoot ahead of a Republican nomination contest Saturday, said two district party chairs, as Del. Jason Ballard, R-Giles, defends his state House seat against challenger Jody Pyles. Candidate fundraising reports show a $100,000 advantage for Ballard days before the 42nd District GOP mass meeting. Ballards has incumbency, fundraising advantage and support from establishment Republicans. Nonetheless, Pyles, a former staffer for state Sen. Amanda Chase, R-Chesterfield, said he favors his own chances to win the mass meeting nomination Saturday. At stake is an uncontested path to represent a district covering Radford, Giles County, part of Montgomery and most of Pulaski counties. Im doing this completely grassroots, Pyles said. Im doing it on my own. But not entirely alone. Pyles gained backing last week from two Republican district chairs who appeared in a 37-minute video on social media, detailing allegations of contention, animosity and politics within the party. That video was posted by Ginny Perfater, Republican Party legislative chair for the neighboring 41st House District, which covers parts of Montgomery and Roanoke counties. In the video, Perfater said she decided to endorse Pyles. Theres lots of shenanigans going on to elect certain people that the elitists want in there, and to keep out any people who are grassroots, Perfater said in the video. They want establishment people who are just going to vote how they want them to vote. The other party leader who appears in that video is Jo Anne Price, Republican Party legislative chair for the 42nd House District. Price, who is also Montgomery Countys GOP Committee chairwoman, questioned the amount of fundraising during Ballards political career. The question I have to ask is why would anyone spend $1.1 million just to get a $17,400-a-year job? Why would anyone do that? Price said. But thats exactly what the Republican Party of Virginia spent on Delegate Ballards seat in just two years. So we have to ask ourselves, whats really going on here? When Ballard won election in 2021, he unseated an incumbent Democrat in Chris Hurst and flipped the district for Republicans, using more than $1 million in campaign funds raised, including some $300,000 from Republican leadership committees, according to data from the Virginia Public Access Project. Ahead of the 2023 mass meeting, Ballard raised $101,413 for reelection, compared to Pyles $1,175, according to Virginia Public Access Project records as of this week. You have to ask yourself, where does this money come from? And it is outside of our local community, Price said. So do we want people from Northern Virginia, money from Northern Virginia or other places, coming in and influencing our local elections? Or do we want to be able to be the ones to decide who is going to represent us? Approximately half of Ballards fundraising comes from well-known Virginia special interest political action committees, from Dominion Energy to the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association to Virginia Realtors. That pattern is typical for incumbent legislators. I have fought for law and order, defended our Second Amendment, and fought to give parents and students control over their education, Ballard said in an email on Tuesday. These are issues that matter to voters, and because of that, they have donated to our campaign so we can continue delivering consistent, conservative results for our communities. Intraparty bickering has occurred across the country, Ballard said in an email. He dismissed claims made by Price and Perfater. I do not have the desire to engage in petty political games, Ballard said. I am delivering for the New River Valley in Richmond, and our constituents see that. Pyles said hes been an entrepreneur and community member in Radford long enough for people of the New River Valley to know who he is. Theres two ways to campaign. One way is you live your life in a community and you try to be the best person you can be and you build a reputation, Pyles said during a phone call last week. The second way to campaign is that nobody knows you, so you spend lots and lots of money on signs and commercials and mailers. Ballard is a Giles County native, trial lawyer, Army veteran and former Pearisburg town council member. In an email, he said his campaign messaging has resonated across the district. My record speaks for itself. I am an effective legislator who is advocating for the conservative values of the New River Valley, Ballard said. That is what I was elected to do, and that is what I will continue to do for the people of the New River Valley. Fingers on the scale Ballard received reelection endorsements this spring from top-ranking state Republicans including Gov. Glenn Youngkin, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and House Speaker Del. Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah. District leaders Price and Perfater said they believe endorsements from elected officials in contested Republican primaries violate certain rules specified in the Plan of Organization of the Republican Party of Virginia. Do you think people should have the right to choose their representation without somebody at the state party level or at the state governor level, or any level of government putting their finger on the scale? Perfater said. They should not be able to do that. And so thats really what our concern is. Article VII, section I of that Republican Party rulebook said an official committee shall not endorse any candidate running for Republican nomination, unless they are running unopposed for that nomination. Republican officials endorsements of not only Ballard, but also Chris Obenshain, who won the contested 41st District mass meeting nomination against grassroots candidate Lowell Bowman earlier in May, are proof of the politics at play, Perfater said. This video is about exposing what is happening in our process, and making sure that the election process is fair, and that it is one that the American people believe in, which is that anybody can run for office, Perfater said. Perfater said she endorsed Pyles for the 42nd District race. Seeing all these people put their finger on the scale and saying what they think, Im gonna say what I think, Perfater said. Because Im not the chair of that committee, so I feel free to say what I want, and I feel very strongly about this. Pyles past Price said other party leaders threatened to expose some dirt on Pyles if he chose to run for office, they had a dossier on him, she said. Among that dirt includes a Radford police document from April 2022 in which a female subject reported Pyles was allegedly stalking her. Pyles denied those allegations. I wish reporters like you would ask more about who a person actually is as opposed to particular points in their life, Pyles said. Everybodys got something in their life that, you know, wasnt their finest hour. Everybodys had a speeding ticket or, you know, everybodys been in an argument with somebody. Somebody has lost a job somewhere, you know, and if we judge people based on those things, we can paint people with a pretty broad brush thats pretty dim at times. During an earlier interview in March, Pyles said he was formerly a police officer in North Carolina, but he would not specify further when asked. What does it matter? he said in March. Last week, Pyles confirmed a report from progressive news website Raw Story that he was fired in 2005 after two years on the police force in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Me and my immediate supervisor got into a pretty heated argument and he got in my face and told me he was going to have my job, Pyles said. There was a whole situation between he and I, is the reason I left. Pyles said he intended to join Roanoke police after moving from North Carolina to Virginia, but instead he partnered with a group rescuing child slaves and sex-trafficked women around the world. Im a person whos always been a fighter for people in need, Pyles said. I believe in helping and giving back. Additionally, Pyles said he owns a martial arts school and ATMs, works for a company that sells body armor to law enforcement and directs ad campaigns for outdoor products like rifle scopes. Hes also a pastor, he said. Primary pushback Price says during the video that she received pushback from many people in the Republican Party about her decision to hold a 42nd District mass meeting for the nomination contest between Ballard and Pyles. Primary elections run by state officials are widely considered to be the traditional intraparty nomination method. As soon as I filed for the mass meeting option for nomination, I received a phone call from the lieutenant governor representing the Youngkin administration. She requested that we not do it, expressing that she prefers a state run party primary, Price said. Not only did I receive a phone call from the lieutenant governor, I received phone calls from the chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia, several calls, asking me not to do the mass meeting. Just a lot of pressure. In the 41st District, Perfater said she also faced similar pushback when a mass meeting was announced instead of a Republican primary election. Nearby in the 47th District, contention arose last year regarding the nomination method between incumbent Republicans Del. Wren Williams of Patrick and Del. Marie March of Floyd, before party leaders ultimately selected a primary election. Its much easier, I dont want to use the word cheat its much easier to manipulate and control an election when youre using the state-run plan, Perfater said. Its a lot easier and its a lot more of a manipulative game than it is the truth and the reality of the situation. Perfater said after the results of the 2020 presidential election, she and Price wanted to ensure election integrity and transparency for their districts, so they chose to hold mass meetings instead of primaries. It gives the power of the electoral process back to the people, Perfater said. They get to vote on the process. They get to vote on the nomination. They get to vote on the committee. They get to vote on everything. During the 41st District mass meeting on May 4, 507 Republicans voted, according to officials at the event. The district as a whole covers more than 50,000 registered voters, 55% of whom voted Youngkin for governor. Without proof, Perfater repeated several unsubstantiated claims made by former president Donald Trump after his electoral loss to Joe Biden in 2020. In a state-run primary, you have 45 days of early voting mail-in ballots absentee ballots ballot harvesting we had dead people voting, we had all kinds of issues, Perfater said. When you use a mass meeting, you eliminate all of those issues. Those are among the reasons why Republicans in the 42nd District will decide that GOP race in a mass meeting at New River Community College starting at 11 a.m. Saturday, rather than deciding their nominee during a primary election, Price and Perfater said. You need to sign up and you need to listen to both candidates with your heart and see who you think is the best man and vote for them, and send a strong signal to these people in Richmond that they cannot keep controlling us, Perfater said. Pray about it, and see what God says to you. The winner of this nomination battle between Ballard and Pyles is set to run unopposed for the general election in November, adding weight to Republicans decision on Saturday. Southwest Virginians, I have one question to ask you, Price said. Is it time for you to take back your local elections and start electing your people to go and represent you in Richmond? Ballard said he would have preferred a state-run primary election, but the method of nomination was a party decision he does not control. A mass meeting is confusing, even for the most civically engaged, Ballard said. We are focused on educating voters on what a mass meeting is, where it is, how to vote, and when to vote. Pyles said he will continue his grassroots campaign until the mass meeting on Saturday. I feel good. I mean, thats the peoples seat. Its the peoples decision who they put there, Pyles said. I would say just sit back and watch. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary when Matthew Harvey went to pick up his son at a Newport News school bus stop on the afternoon of Sept. 30. But when the 9-year-old boy who is autistic and doesnt communicate verbally walked off the bus, Harvey was shocked to see him naked from the waist down. He was outraged, said Harveys attorney, Jacob Murov. He immediately contacted the school to notify them. He was obviously humiliated, not only for his son but also for himself. Harvey, 34, later learned his son was struck in the face by a bus monitor on the way home from the Center for Autism at Kiln Creek Elementary School, according to a $15 million lawsuit brought by Harvey on his sons behalf. The facts regarding this case are beyond appalling and shock the conscience, Murov wrote in the complaint, filed May 5 in Newport News Circuit Court. After being slapped, the boy pulled off his pants and diaper as the bus run continued with the bus monitor twice telling him she wished she could whip his tail, the lawsuit contends. But neither the bus monitor nor driver attempted to put the boys pants or diaper back on, the complaint said. When they got to the boys stop, the lawsuit said, they didnt ask his father to come onto the bus to help. Instead, they simply allowed the child off the bus. The lawsuit says the autistic boy, listed in the complaint only by his initials, has severe cognitive disabilities and suffers from seizure disorders. The complaint also said the bus monitor, Patti Washington, 62, referred to Harveys 9-year-old son as a monkey and an animal during a bus-ride conversation she had with the bus driver the day before. Though those names werent spoken directly to the boy, Murov contends the conversation was within the boys earshot at the front of the bus. The bus monitor is Black, as is the boy. Its offensive whether it comes from a Black person or a white person, Murov said of the derogatory names. The attorney said the lawsuits assertions are backed by video footage from both days on the school bus as well as a letter from the school division to the bus monitor. But the lawsuit said that despite clear violations of School Board policy, the school division merely gave the bus monitor and driver warnings rather than terminating them: They are no longer serving the autistic school, but are working other school bus routes. Listed as defendants in the case are Washington, bus driver Deborah Richardson, and the Newport News School Board the seven-member panel that oversees Newport News Public Schools. Michelle Price, a spokeswoman for the school division, declined to comment. Newport News Public Schools cannot comment on the pending lawsuit, she wrote in an email. The school division remains committed to ensuring the well-being and care of all students. School Board Chairwoman Lisa Surles-Law did not return a phone call. Washington and Richardson could not be immediately reached, and its not clear whether the school division has hired attorneys to represent them. The Daily Press filed a Freedom of Information Act request through Price last week for the footage from the school bus as well as the letter to Washington from a supervisor about the incident. The school system has not yet responded to the open records request. Apart from the civil lawsuit, Harvey went to a Newport News magistrate last fall to swear out a criminal warrant against Washington for assault and battery. My son was assaulted, Harvey wrote in a criminal complaint. He was punched and slapped. He is autistic, cannot speak. She pushed him towards the front of the bus, halfway naked. He added that the school division sent a video of the incident to Child Protective Services. But during a Jan. 3 hearing, court records show, Newport News Juvenile and Domestic Relations Judge Shawn W. Overbey found Washington not guilty of the misdemeanor charge. Murov wasnt at that hearing, but said Harvey told him the full surveillance video of the bus ride wasnt played. The prosecutor at the hearing, Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Richard Lewis, couldnt be reached Friday on what led to the acquittal. A transcript isnt available. Murov hasnt yet obtained the bus surveillance videos in question, but said the school division allowed Harvey to come to the school transportation building to watch them. Harvey was accompanied by another attorney, Murovs father, Kenny Murov, who also viewed the footage. Following Harveys complaints to the school after the Sept. 30 incident, Susan Moore the supervisor of special needs for the school systems transportation division wrote a detailed letter to Washington on Dec 6. Aside from the issues surrounding the 9-year-old, the complaint says the letter notes that Washington is also seen on the surveillance footage grabbing another student by the strap of his neck and jerking him down into his seat as he boarded the bus. According to the complaint, Moores letter called Washingtons overall conduct callous, and said it was in violation of numerous School Board policies. Jacob Murov said Washington signed that letter, acknowledging her actions. The lawsuit asserts that the Newport News School Board allowing Washington and Richardson to continue working on its school buses demonstrates a complete disregard of prudence regarding child safety as well as a willful and wanton disregard for students rights. The lawsuit contends the autistic boy has suffered pain and suffering, mental anguish, humiliation, and other injuries as a result of the school systems actions. Aside from $15 million in compensatory damages, the suit also asks for punitive damages, back interest, a reimbursement for the cost of the litigation, and other relief as justice may require. The case has been assigned to Newport News Circuit Judge Bryant L. Sugg, with a response from the school system due this week. Henrico County Manager had the protective order extended against Ronald Hedlund and William Barthel. A digitally altered photo of Thornton White, William Barthel, Shaun Porter, Ronald Hedlund, and Jack Pierce leaving the Henrico Court House. After a preliminary protective order was granted against Ronald Hedlund and William Barthel, a judge extended that protective order for another 2 years. The protective order will remain in effect while they exercise their right to appeal. While under the protective order, they are prohibited from possessing and transporting firearms. Hedlund was represented by John Pierce who is affiliated with the Virginia Citizens Defense League. Pierce is scheduled to appear on the VCDLs Ask A Lawyer on Saturday. Pierce made it clear that he was only representing Hedlund and that Barthel was without any legal representation. Barthel is known for a wearing a costume of a white rabbit however on Thursday he dressed down and was wearing khakis and a black hoody. Hedlund is also known for his large signs that include phrases like Fuck Biden. William Barthel leaving the Henrico Court House that is not digitally altered. The attorney for John Vithoulkas began with their claim that Vithoulkas had a reason to believe he and his family were threatened by Hedlund and Barthel from a series of actions from those two. Vithoulkas serves as the county manager for Henrico County for the past 10 years. Submitted into evidence was a series of clips that were filmed by Hedlund and Barthel. One of the clips has Ron Hedlund driving while Barthel filmed the house of Vithoulkas as Vithoulkas drives by. Another has Hedlund say the address of the Vithoulkas home. Another clip has Hedlund outside the home of Vithoulkas during a baby shower, filming a parked car and asking viewers to look up the vin number. Another clip also included Hedlund speaking about Vithoulkas while he was filming a noose. Perhaps the most damning evidence against Hedlund came from a tweet he made on May 21st, eleven days after the preliminary protective order was served. That tweet had the date and location of John Vithoulkass daughters wedding. The claims from Vithoulkas also included video clips from Brandon Howardwho also held a protest outside of the home of Vithoulkas. Hedlund would claim that Howard decided to protest on his own, after Hedlund called up the Virginia Citizens Defense League for legal advice. However, in the collection of video clips played for the judge included Hedlund encouraging people to join Howards protest. When Hedlund presented his defense, he attempted to create the appearance of person who had been protesting for almost 30 years and landing him a position working for Governor George Allen. Left out where instances that resulted in arrest. Hedlund said that his protest against Vithoulkas began after he had a large sign that said Fuck Biden outside of a Richmond Strikers game. Hedlund believed that Vithoulkas acted as county manager to alter the parking and ordered the police to forbid signs on the parks. A belief that Hedlund could not confirm but had been attempting to FOIA the county. After explaining his motivation, Hedlund called Shaun Porter as a witness. Porter also known as the neighbor from hell from his harassment that he directed in his old neighborhood. Porter, Hedlund, and Barthel hold protests together even though Porter lives in Hagerstown, Maryland. Before the trial, the trio held a protest at a Virginia rest stop with a Fuck Biden sign. Porter traveled to Henrico for the trial. In my (non-lawyer) point view, it would have been better if he had stayed out of the court room. After testifying that he stands up to bullying with his over 100,000 subscribers, Porter began to raise his voice and lose his temper when he was cross-examined. When asked about a tire shop in Maryland that he was protesting, this set off a transphobic rant from Porter. When Porter was asked if he was the antithesis of calm and that during a protest he would be more aggressively, Porter said that he is always an asshole even asleep. Porter was also enraged at the idea that Hedlund was telling him how and where to protest. After appearing in court, Porter took to YouTube to complain that there was no evidence presented against Hedlund and Barthel. Porter did not mention that he spent a majority of the hearing in the hallway. His video titled was fixated on a question from Jack Pierce about his nickname White Claw that Porter did not understand the context. Shaun Porter YouTube screenshot Hedlund also called another fellow protester Thornton White. White said that he had been at protests with Hedlund for about two or three years. White was with Howard at the protest outside of Vithoulkass home and testified that protested because he was upset that Hedlund had a protective order against him. At the end of the hearing, there was no testimony from law enforcement or footage from security cameras and law enforcement body cams. This was not a criminal charge but instead a civil matter. Vithoulkas and his lawyer played footage that Hedlund and Barthel and their friends filmed and released. They were able to his own words like, John Vithoulkas is a little man and hes afraid of me. Hedlund was hung by his own rope, metaphorically. The protective order against Hedlund and Barthel was not about curbing their freedom of expression but rather that those two have shown that they desired to appear as threatening. They will have to face the consequences of their actions. Read our previous post on this story HERE " " A river of boiling lava came to a halt on the outskirts of Goma after the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo May 22 sent thousands of terrified residents fleeing in panic and killing at least 32 people. MOSES SAWASAWA/Getty Images Seismologists in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) were still reporting earthquakes around the Mount Nyiragongo volcano a week after it erupted. The original eruption killed at least 32 people and tens of thousands had to flee the area. The Conversation Africa's Moina Spooner asked earth scientist Paolo Papale to explain the particular conditions in the Virunga volcanic chain, and what makes it particularly dangerous. Mount Nyiragongo is part of the Virunga volcanic chain, and owes its existence to the activity of the African Great Rift. The rift is constantly extending and opening. In a few tens of million years it will have led to the creation of a new ocean separating the bulk of the African continent from its present eastern portion. Advertisement We can see what the future would look like by observing present-day Madagascar, which was once attached to continental Africa. The peculiar location of Mount Nyiragongo on a highly active segment of the African rift favours quick ascent of magma (molten material) from about 100 km beneath the Earth's surface, and extreme fluidity of lava. That is one major reason of concern, as the lava flowing on the upper volcano flanks can be extremely fast and impossible to escape. The eruption of 2002 was caused by a sudden episode of rift opening. Estimates were that 100 people had died and up to hundreds of thousands were forced to flee from the town of Goma and from the villages on the upper volcano flanks. About 16 km of fractures formed from the summit towards Goma and lava poured out from several locations along it, including from the outskirts of Goma. The Nyiragongo lava flowing from vents at lower altitude tends to be more viscous and slower. It gives people time to escape, but its stickiness is also more destructive to buildings in its path. This time the fractures and vents weren't at such a low altitude. The lava hasn't reached the city yet. Other dangers associated with rifting, and volcano activity in the region, are: the earthquakes accompanying rifting episodes, which can themselves cause significant damage. explosions when the hot lava reaches Lake Kivu waters causing its sudden boiling; the release of carbon-rich gases, particularly methane, during rifting and eruption, leading to explosions; the potential for carbon-rich gas accumulation at the bottom of lake Kivu, which may cause surface water to sink, releasing lethal gases threatening Goma. IMDEA Software and IMDEA Networks Institutes participate together with six other partners (Instituto Nacional de Tecnica Aeroespacial, Centro Espanol de Metrologia, Fundacion Vithas, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid and Universidad Complutense de Madrid) in the MADQuantum-CM project, funded by the Community of Madrid, the Spanish State through the Plan for Recovery, Transformation and Resilience, and the European Union through the NextGeneration EU funds. The objective of the project is the expansion of MadQCI, the new quantum communications network of the Community of Madrid and the largest quantum network in Europe. Quantum computing and quantum communications have the potential to become a paradigm shift in computer networks. In this sense, MadQCI will connect, through a metropolitan fiber optic deployment, data centers of the universities of the Community of Madrid and the IMDEA Software and IMDEA Networks Institutes. The network will allow the permanent hosting of quantum communications equipment, enabling the validation of new key exchange technologies, as well as the development of use cases and innovations that take advantage of the infrastructure, which will be deployed by REDIMadrid, the advanced data network of the Community of Madrid, managed by IMDEA Software. "Quantum key exchange technology has a very large disruptive potential, as it guarantees key exchange and consequently secure communications between remote centers," explains Cesar Sanchez, director of REDIMadrid, Senior Researcher at IMDEA Software and principal investigator at IMDEA Software on the project. "Europe has a world leadership in quantum technologies, and in the coming years we will see many academic as well as industrial advances in quantum communications," he continues. "This technology will not only improve the performance and capacity of networks, but will change the very foundations, completely changing computing platforms," as Albert Banchs, Deputy Director of IMDEA Networks and principal investigator of the project at IMDEA Networks, explains. Furthermore, "quantum communications will be beneficial, from a social point of view, as they help to create highly sensitive data transmission networks based on a process called quantum key distribution, or QKD, which takes advantage of the laws of quantum physics to protect data. This technology is already used, for example, by financial institutions, but extending it to other areas would require major innovations. The project will also help to foster the development of new local quantum technology companies," says Ignacio Berberana, Senior Research Engineer at IMDEA Networks and a participant in the project together with the Institute's Edge and Global Computing research groups. MADQuantum-CM aims to show how quantum security solutions can be used throughout the scientific network infrastructure of the Community of Madrid in a transparent manner. Among its aims is also to create several testbeds and demonstrations to show how quantum networks and communications can be used by potential stakeholders. As Berberana points out, two of the areas to be explored in this project will be the application of quantum cryptography and quantum communications to support new networks, such as the future 6G networks. In addition, it seeks to develop an innovation and training ecosystem to help grow the technology and supply chains for quantum communications technologies and services in Madrid and Spain (through collaboration with other regional quantum communications projects). The network infrastructure deployed by the project is expected to form the basis of a permanent quantum network that will enable continued innovation beyond its lifetime. Ultimately, these projects build on the extensive quantum communications expertise of their participants. "In the case of IMDEA Software, its participation in the European OpenQKD project, which culminated at the beginning of 2023, made it possible to build on the REDIMadrid network the largest European quantum communications testbed, the germ of the current MadQCI network", highlights Sanchez. "In the case of IMDEA Networks, the project is based on the results of the European 5G Vinni and OpenQKD projects," says Berberana. *The Madrid Community Complementary Quantum Communications Plan (MADQuantum-CM) is funded by the Community of Madrid and MCIN with NextGenerationEU funds from the European Union's Recovery and Resilience Mechanism (RRM), in the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan of the Spanish State (PRTR-C17.I1). Provided by IMDEA Networks Institute DARLINGTON, S.C. The U.S. 52 Swift Creek bridge project is underway and expected to be completed in the fall of this year. The S.C. 34 over Black Creek bridge project is expected to be complete by the end of June. From there, the contractor will move to a second location S.C. 34 over Swift Creek. The closure and detour for the second segment over Swift Creek is expected to last approximately 60 days. The detour map is the same for both segments of closure. The map can be found at https://goo.gl/maps/kzQnA8d6AAQY3P4u9. [The new bridges] will allow for smoother, faster and safer transportation in and out and through Darlington County, not just the city, Police Chief Jimmy Davis said. The bridges need to be replaced because of their age and construction material at the time. Currently the weight limits on certain Darlington County bridges makes it harder for heavy equipment such as snow plows and fire trucks to get to where they are needed. There are only one or two bridges in town that [fire trucks] can legally cross, Davis said. SCDOT encourages those driving through a work zone to slow down and pay attention to traffic signs. Anyone who has a concern about a project can be in touch with SCDOTs customer service center directly at 855-467-2368. We appreciate the continued patience of the community as we work to get these critical projects complete, SCDOT Director of Public Engagement Kelly Moore said. SCDOT is repairing and replacing hundreds of deficient bridges across South Carolina as part of the agencys Strategic 10-Year Plan to improve the states roads and bridges. The 10-year spending plan provides $223 million for the bridge program, and as of this month, 301 bridges have advanced to construction with a goal of 500 in the 10-year plan. FLORENCE, S.C. Allyson Holder said she knew she wanted to go into the health care field after serving as a caregiver. What really inspired me to do it was people who didnt have a lot of family, Holder said. To see the light come on in their eyes and to be able to help them and be the bright spot of their day. Holder was one of eight students from around Florence County who signed contracts to be apprentices at the MUSC Health Florence Medical Center during a special event on Wednesday. In the first program of its kind in Florence, the patient care technician apprentices will be paid to learn on the job and work toward a certified nursing assistant certification and, eventually, to become independent patient care technicians. Apprenticeship Carolina and Florence-Darlington Technical College partnered with MUSC to make it happen. The mission of MUSC Health is to preserve and optimize human life in South Carolina and beyond through education, research and patient care. Today, we are honoring that vision by welcoming these young men and women into our health system through our education pillar, said MUSC Health Florence Division CEO Jay Hinesley. Holder said she learned about the program through the Florence Adult Education Center, but newly-signed apprentices also came from Florence School District Three, Florence-Darlington Technical College, Coker University and Francis Marion University. We are very excited about this new venture, and even more excited about the opportunity for our students to gain skills and knowledge in the field of healthcare and then to go to work at a stellar employer like MUSC, said Lynn Wilson, program manager at Florence-Darlington Technical College. The other apprentices who signed on Wednesday are: Tahlia Pickney Nayona Deberry Jasmine Newton Kierra Hernandez Alton AJ Townsend Janaya Holmes Dylan Chapman This is just the start of a long and rewarding career, Hinesley said. We are going to be here to support them through their growth and making an impact on our community. Apprentices will learn on the job, working closely with a seasoned MUSC employee, and will attend classes at Florence-Darlington Technical College to round out their skills, according to Brittany Salley. Salley is a consultant with Apprenticeship Carolina, a state agency that promotes and helps to launch apprenticeship programs. Our goal is to develop a highly skilled workforce pipeline within these communities, Salley said. After the apprenticeship, Holder said, she hopes to continue climbing through the health care field and one day go to nursing school. Im grateful for this opportunity and for MUSC, she said. FLORENCE, S.C. Allyson Holder said she knew she wanted to go into the health care field after serving as a caregiver. What really inspired me to do it was people who didnt have a lot of family, Holder said. To see the light come on in their eyes and to be able to help them and be the bright spot of their day. Holder was one of eight students from around Florence County who signed contracts to be apprentices at the MUSC Health Florence Medical Center during a special event on Wednesday. In the first program of its kind in Florence, the patient care technician apprentices will be paid to learn on the job and work toward a certified nursing assistant certification and, eventually, to become independent patient care technicians. Apprenticeship Carolina and Florence-Darlington Technical College partnered with MUSC to make it happen. The mission of MUSC Health is to preserve and optimize human life in South Carolina and beyond through education, research and patient care. Today, we are honoring that vision by welcoming these young men and women into our health system through our education pillar, said MUSC Health Florence Division CEO Jay Hinesley. Holder said she learned about the program through the Florence Adult Education Center, but newly-signed apprentices also came from Florence School District Three, Florence-Darlington Technical College, Coker University and Francis Marion University. We are very excited about this new venture, and even more excited about the opportunity for our students to gain skills and knowledge in the field of healthcare and then to go to work at a stellar employer like MUSC, said Lynn Wilson, program manager at Florence-Darlington Technical College. The other apprentices who signed on Wednesday are: Tahlia Pickney Nayona Deberry Jasmine Newton Kierra Hernandez Alton AJ Townsend Janaya Holmes Dylan Chapman This is just the start of a long and rewarding career, Hinesley said. We are going to be here to support them through their growth and making an impact on our community. Apprentices will learn on the job, working closely with a seasoned MUSC employee, and will attend classes at Florence-Darlington Technical College to round out their skills, according to Brittany Salley. Salley is a consultant with Apprenticeship Carolina, a state agency that promotes and helps to launch apprenticeship programs. Our goal is to develop a highly skilled workforce pipeline within these communities, Salley said. After the apprenticeship, Holder said, she hopes to continue climbing through the health care field and one day go to nursing school. Im grateful for this opportunity and for MUSC, she said. Seguin, TX (78155) Today Showers early then scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day. High near 85F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. 5 21500 14300 5PMI57.1 5 Pixar75 25% The Henderson 81024 19 5PMI50.6 13 OPEC+ 100 0.34% 0.26% CCL0.61% 2% 4.02% 5.33% 9.5 1665 18.6 CHANEL300 TVB53% 9 66610 11 5 SIOUX CITY Over 90 employees will lose their jobs when a Sioux City ham deboning plant closes its doors at the end of June, according to an Iowa Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act notice. The layoff will impact 92 workers at Global Foods Processing, 1826 Chicago Ave. The notice, described as a closing, was published on Tuesday, with a layoff date of June 30. A woman who answered the phone at Global Foods Wednesday said no one was immediately available to comment. A city official declined to comment on the record. Canadian entrepreneur David E. Guest took over the former Siouxland Quality Meat plant in the Sioux City stockyards in 1993. Siouxland Quality Meat shuttered in 1990 after being bogged down in legal problems. After renovations, Global Foods plant began operating there in 1994. Its meat products at the time were to be exported to Canada, Mexico and overseas. A March 1993 Journal story stated that Global Foods was planning to invest $2.2 million during the first two years of the project, with another $190,000 coming in low interest loans from the business community. The plant was expected to bring a payroll of $1.3 million to the city and create as many as 100 new jobs. The Siouxland Initiative committed $100,000 to the project, the City of Sioux City $80,000 and Midwest Power Systems $10,000. A $100,000 forgivable loan was also being provided through the Iowa Department of Economic Developments Community Economic Betterment Account, according to the article. Global Foods Processing planned to break ground on a new pork processing plant at the former John Morrell pork plant site in the summer of 2012, but those plans fell through. The project was reassessed due to concerns over construction costs and the health of the pork industry, according to story published in The Journal in August 2012. The 82,000-square-foot manufacturing and cold storage facility would have added production capacity and nearly doubled the Sioux City-based companys employment, according to the 2012 article. The plant had 175 employees in 2012. The proposed second plant would have allowed the family-owned company to expand into loins and other value-added pork products. Global Foods current plant is one of the last vestiges of Sioux Citys once-renowned stockyards district. Photos: Sioux City Stockyards Close Stockyards: Horse Barns This undated photo shows the horse barns located in the Sioux City stockyards. Stockyards 2002 Auctioneer Duane Rus, of Rock Valley, Iowa, points to a bidder while conducting an auction, March 4, 2002, at the Sioux City stockyards. The stockyards once labeled the world's largest closed soon after. Cattle pens The cattle pens at the Sioux City Stockyards are shown in 1968. Livestock Exchange Building The market board in the lobby of the Livestock Exchange Building in the Sioux City Stockyards is shown Jan. 25, 1970. The Journal had a news bureau in the building. Covered cattle division The covered cattle division is shown in this 1975 photo at the Sioux City Stockyards. Cattle pens 1968 Many of the cattle purchased in these pens as feeders returned from feed lots to be sold here, shown 1968, as slaughter cattle. Aerial view of stockyards An aerial photo of the Sioux City Stockyards taken Aug. 27, 1972. 1990s aerial view This 1991 aerial photo shows the Sioux City Stockyards. Stockyard optimism Lawrence V. Kuhl, left, general manager of the Stock Yards Co., and John Peterson, publicity director, were said to be optimistic about the future of the livestock industry in Sioux City. The 1967 saleable receipts totaled 3,360,742 head of livestock as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's market news service. Stockyards: Lawrence V. Kuhl Sioux City Stockyards president Lawrence V. Kuhl is shown in this undated photo. Stockyards strike Members of the Local 176 union strike outside the Sioux City Stockyards November 22, 1971. Stockyards aerial Aerial of Sioux City Stockyards taken Jan. 25, 1970. Stockyards: Aerial 1954 The Sioux City Stockyards is shown on Nov. 2, 1954. Sioux Quality Packers Inc. Sioux Quality Packers Inc. is shown January 25, 1970. Stockyards: Aerial 1972 Aerial of Sioux City Stockyards taken Aug. 27, 1972. Bob Dole at stockyards Sen. Robert Dole, Republican vice-presidential candidate, admires a driver's whip presented to him by Van Kuhl (right) President of the Sioux City Stockyards. Dole made an early morning tour of the stockyards during his campaign swing through Iowa in Sioux City on Oct. 18, 1976. Stockyards: Logo Undated Sioux City Stockyards logo. Stockyards: Logo Undated Sioux City Stockyards logo. Stockyards: Belt Buckle A Sioux City Stockyards belt buckle from mid 1970s. Stockyards in 1904 This April 1904 photo show the Sioux City Stockyards. 081714special-bureaus 3 Sioux City Stockyards logo from 1975. Manure removal A fleet of trucks, tractors and manure loaders that move the many hundreds of tons of manure from the yards is shown in this undated photo. Before machinery, all of this was done by horse and wagon, pitchfork and scoop. Manure pile This undated photo shows the manure pile at the Sioux City stockyards. 1904 Railroad This April 1904 photo shows the railroad that brought livestock to the Sioux City stockyards. In the background are the pens for the livestock. SC04.SR.Fishing.01.jpg Fishing on Half Moon Lake in Sioux City is shown in this undated photo. The Sioux City Stockyards and Hawkeye Land Co. donated the land to the city in November 1934. Stockyards: Hay Workers unload hay for livestock at the stockyards in this March 11, 1947, photo. Cudahy Packing Co. The Sioux City stockyards and Cudahy Packing Co. are shown. It totaled 80 acres. Floyd Valley Packing Co. Floyd Valley Packing Co., shown in this Jan. 28, 1968 photo, operating in this modern plant in Sioux City's stockyards district, announced plans for the installation of a new cooler and installation of boning equipment for both pork and beef. It ended operations in March 1985. Armour Plant The Armour Packing Plant is shown in the 1930s. It was one of Sioux City's largest employers. The plant was located at 1004 S. Chambers St., known as 1004 Cunningham Drive today. December Morn "December Morn,"shown in this Dec. 9, 1964 photo, models her weathered and bumpy complexion to those who care to stop and gaze at her battered body in the Stockyards. She stands, surrounded by weeks and debris -- and snow, too -- seemingly watched over the parking lot between the old Cudahy and Armour plant sites. It is believed she has stood her guard since about 1927 or 1928. John F. Kennedy John F. Kennedy campaigns for president at the Sioux City stockyards on Sept. 22, 1960. Animal pens A 1960s photo of the Sioux City stockyards shows a view of the massive number of animal pens. It ranked as the third largest stockyards in the United States, according to a 1964 Journal article. Floyd City map A map of Sioux City shows Floyd City as a real estate subdivision where the south bottoms and stockyards were eventually built. The area was platted between 1875 and 1881. Residents in 1888 complained that the sewer construction was poor. Swift packing plant The Swift packing plant, located in the Sioux City stockyards, is shown underwater in the Floyd River flood of 1926. Stockyards flood 1953 Cattle battle the rising water in the Stockyards area in the 1953 Floyd River floods. Stockyards flood 1953 Aerial views of Sioux City show flood water covered much of the yards area in 1953. Stockyards flood 1953 Stockyards workers try to get cattle out of the flooded pens in the 1953 Floyd river flood. Sioux City Stockyards 1915 Trucks dock at the Sioux City Stockyards in 1915. +37 +37 +37 +37 +37 +37 +37 +37 +37 +37 China has warned of the risks posed by advances in artificial intelligence while calling for heightened national security measures. The statement issued after a meeting Tuesday chaired by Communist Party leader and President Xi Jinping underscores the tension between the governments determination to seize global leadership in cutting-edge technology and concerns about the possible social and political harms of such technologies. It followed a warning by scientists and tech industry leaders in the U.S., including high-level executives at Microsoft and Google, about the perils AI poses to humankind. The official Xinhua News Agency said Xi urged dedicated efforts to safeguard political security and improve the security governance of internet data and artificial intelligence. DES MOINES Many Iowans want federal regulators to expect more from carbon dioxide capture pipeline developers, and trust the companies less when it comes to policing their own systems. That was a theme of the first day of a two-day meeting with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, which regulates the 2.6 million miles of natural gas and hazardous materials pipelines in the United States. Opponents of three proposed CO2 pipelines in Iowa asked the administration to hold a public meeting in Iowa the epicenter for carbon dioxide capture and sequestration and many people at the meeting Wednesday thanked the regulators for listening. Were really hoping as government agencies, youre able to set setback distances because relying on third parties to get these pipelines in as quickly as possible isnt in the safety interest of the people affected, speaker Dr. Meredith McKean told a panel that included representatives from the pipeline administration, Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy. The Iowa Utilities Board regulates pipeline siting and routes in the state, but the feds set standards for hazardous pipelines, regulate them once built and investigate incidents, such as explosions or leaks. Two of the three developers Summit Carbon Solutions and Navigator CO2 Ventures are asking Iowa regulators for eminent domain powers to force unwilling landowners to grant easements. Wolf Carbon Solutions, whose proposed route includes ADM ethanol plants in Cedar Rapids and Clinton, is not asking for the authority. Mary McDaniel, assistant director of the Pipeline Safety Gas Service Division of the pipeline agency, told an audience of several hundred people gathered at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Des Moines that the agency has beefed up its requirements for pipeline operators to document potential damage caused by earthquakes or landslides. The 2020 rupture of a CO2 pipeline in Satartia, Miss., that sent 45 people to the hospital was caused, in part, by heavy rain eroding a hillside along the pipeline route. Its still kind of a learning curve with a lot of us. How many strings can be put on pipelines is something thats been evolving over the last couple of years, McDaniel said. Travis Hallam, the pipeline director at Three Affiliated Tribes, based in North Dakota, said the tribes put additional requirements on pipeline projects that pump crude oil from the Bakken region. Pipelines on tribal lands were buried deeper and have independent third-party inspections, he said. Hallam also advised Iowa to require a baseline X-ray inspection of pipelines before they go into operation and inspections every three years instead of five. You have to insist on that safety because there will be people who put monetary value over safety, Hallam said. Companies that get permits for the CO2 pipelines stand to gain billions of dollars in federal tax credits granted because some scientists think carbon sequestration may help reduce the impact of climate change. Many of the audience members want to halt pipeline projects completely. They reacted with dismay when Kevin Dooley, a carbon transport engineer with the Energy Department, said the U.S. government expects there will be up to 60,000 miles of CO2 pipelines up from about 5,000 miles now to meet the Biden administrations goal of being net zero carbon emissions by 2050. 60,000 miles of pipe? said Sherri Webb, a Shelby County landowner. Thats awful. Tensions rose late in the day when Dan Wahl, of Spirit Lake, asked the pipeline administration to establish setbacks for where pipelines can be built from homes, schools and other facilities. Wahl is facing a lawsuit by Summit Carbon Solutions, which is seeking an injunction to prohibit landowners from interfering with surveys for a proposed CO2 pipeline in western and north-central Iowa. Who is going to stand up and take responsibility? Wahl said. What does it take to issue a moratorium? The pipeline administration cant create setback distances, but it can require additional safety regulations in areas near the pipeline route. That answer didnt sit well with the audience, which rumbled with comments like would you want this under your house? and the right people are never in the room. Associate Administrator for Pipeline Safety Alan Mayberry approached the mic. We wanted to be here to see what was on your mind, he said. I assure you, even if its not something we can do, well get the information to the right people. A protest scheduled for 3 p.m. Wednesday outside the Marriott did not gather many supporters because most opponents were in the meeting, but some people stood on the street with signs. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Tuesday that she plans to send about 100 Iowa National Guard soldiers and 30 law enforcement officers to Texas to assist with border security between the United States and Mexico. The Iowa National Guard troops and state law enforcement personnel would deploy for separate 30-day stints in August and September, respectively, according to Reynolds office. It is the second time in a two-year span that Reynolds has directed state troops and law enforcement to Texas. In 2021, up to 30 Department of Public Safety officers and 24 Iowa National Guard members assisted in law enforcement efforts at the border in response to requests from fellow Republican Govs. Greg Abbott of Texas and Doug Ducey of Arizona and the federal government, costing the state about $300,000. Reynolds defended the decision by stating border security is a federal responsibility that has not been adequately addressed by Democratic President Joe Bidens administration. The consequences of an open border can be felt across the country as fentanyl and the cartels threaten our communities, Reynolds said in a statement. While the White House chooses to do nothing, Republican Governors stand ready to protect our states interests. During the first deployment, Iowa troopers assisted with 240 criminal arrests and 51 vehicle pursuits. Troopers also seized 18 firearms, $1.7 million dollars, 948 pounds of marijuana and 37 pounds of cocaine and methamphetamine, according to the governors office. Our officers experienced firsthand the challenges of a chaotic border and provided much needed aid and assistance to our colleagues at the Texas Department of Public Safety, Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan K. Bayens said in a statement. Their need for help is even greater today, and we stand ready to support them without compromising our duties to our home state. Asked how much the planned deployment is expected to cost the state, and whether Texas would reimburse Iowa for the expense, Reynolds Deputy Communications Director Kollin Crompton said the governors office still is working out operational details at this time with Texas officials. A spokesperson for the Iowa National Guard said it is in the planning phase of determining what its mission will be and which service members will be deployed. The Iowa National Guard comprised of the Iowa Army National Guard and the Iowa Air National Guard has about 9,000 members. The guard employs more than 6,500 part-time service members and more than 2,200 full-time members and civilians. Once we know our specific mission, well know which service members are trained and qualified to act on this mission, Jackie Schmillen, Iowa National Guard public affairs director, said Tuesday. Major Gen. Stephen Osborn, adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard, in a statement said units stand ready to deploy and conduct missions that are needed to secure our border and safeguard the American people." Osborn and Schmillen said the deployment will not affect the Guards ability to aid in protecting Iowans and the nation. We will be ready to serve our state just as we would be with any other deployment, Schmillen said. We have deployments regularly as part of what we do so this is just another opportunity to show how we can serve our state and nation. We will always be ready to serve our state should we be called upon and critical need arise. The announcement comes after Abbot requested aid in a letter to his fellow governors this month, asking them to send available law enforcement to the border after the end of Title 42, a pandemic-era rule that allowed the federal government to expel migrants more easily. In the letter, Abbott, a Republican, said Texas had apprehended more than 376,000 migrants and made 28,000 arrests since the March 2021 inception of Operation Lone Star. Join us in the mission to defend our national sovereignty and territorial integrity and send all available law enforcement personnel and resources to the Texas-Mexico border to serve alongside our thousands of Texas National Guard soldiers and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers, Abbott wrote in the letter. Daily migrant crossings reached a record-high of more than 10,000 a day in the days leading up to the end of Title 42. But those crossings plummeted in the days after, to about 4,400 each day, according to CBS News. New policies enacted by the Biden administration carry stricter asylum rules, and certain migrants found entering the country illegally will be banned from the U.S. for five years. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis a Republican presidential contender who frequently emphasizes border security in Iowa visits and Republican Idaho Gov. Brad Little directed resources and personnel to Texas this month, Abbott said in his letter. Reynolds has been critical of Bidens border policies, placing the blame on him for record-high crossings, humanitarian concerns and an increase in fentanyl coming into the U.S. Allowing (Title 42) to end without another solution in place is not humane; it is a dereliction of duty, she said in a statement on May 11 when Title 42 ended. Hundreds of thousands of pounds of fentanyl are entering our country, cartels are trafficking women and children, our border agents are overwhelmed, and thousands of migrants are setting up camp in towns along the border. Emily Sinnwell, a member of the Iowa City Catholic Worker House who recently spent five days at the Texas border, said Iowa should focus on welcoming immigrants to the state rather than criminalizing them. The organization provides shelter and resources to immigrants and refugees in Eastern Iowa. We need humanitarian relief for immigrants and refugees at the border, she said in a statement. We need to send buses to bring them back to Iowa and welcome them to our state. We have the resources and jobs to help and be a part of the solution, not criminalize people for fleeing violence, poverty, and war. Photos: Migrants rush across US border in final hours before pandemic rule expires The U.S. House was expected to vote late Wednesday on raising the nations debt ceiling to avoid risk of a looming catastrophic default on the nations debt. Iowas senior U.S. senator, Republican Chuck Grassley, told reporters Wednesday he still is on the fence about the legislation. What Ive studied so far, Id say theres a lot of good in it and then some thats not so good, Grassley told reporters on a weekly conference call. He said he was hesitant to say how he would vote on the bill before passing the House and reaching the Senate with possible amendments. Ive still got three or four days to make up my mind, Grassley said, adding defaulting is not an option, and I feel strongly about that. The bill would extend the debt ceiling for two years, through the next presidential election, in exchange for modest spending cuts. It would cap some government spending for the next two years, speed up the permitting process for some energy projects, claw back unused COVID-19 relief funds, and expand work requirements for those receiving food and temporary assistance for needy families, with carve-outs for veterans and homeless people. Hard-line Republicans have trashed the agreement and urged fellow members to vote no. Theres some good in it and some bad in it, but thats the art of compromise, Grassley said of negotiations between the Republican-majority U.S. House, Democratic-controlled Senate and the White House. Nobody gets 100 percent of what they want in a compromise. Its just that simple, Grassley said. He told reporters he likes the energy infrastructure permitting reforms, expanded work requirements for food stamps and spending cuts included in the bill, but said cuts probably dont go far enough. Lunacy: Grassley votes to repeal student loan forgiveness plan Grassley also voted Wednesday to undo Democratic President Joe Bidens student loan debt forgiveness plan. On a 51-46 vote, the Senate advanced legislation that would repeal Bidens debt cancellation program and end the pandemic-era pause on monthly payments and interest. Bidens plan would forgive up to $20,000 in student loans for Americans who made less than $125,000 in either 2020 or 2021 and married couples or heads of households who made less than $250,000. The plan is already on hold over legal challenges being reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court. Iowa Republican Attorney General Brenna Bird joined five other GOP-led states suing the Biden administration over the presidents plan to forgive billions in student loan debt. Under the Congressional Review Act, the Senate could pass the measure later this week on a simple majority vote. Despite what President Bidens plan suggests, student debt isnt something that can be waived away with somewhat of a magic wand, Grassley told reporters Wednesday. Common-sense Iowans know that once a loan is taken out, it has to be paid back. The Biden administrations plans would transfer the burden of repayment from the original loan holder to the American taxpayer. Grassley said the Senate has an opportunity to put an end to this lunacy, and said he hopes a majority of my fellow senators will join me in voting to scrap the Biden administrations student debt plan and get our financial house in order. Office standing by to help in wake of Davenport building collapse Asked about the partial collapse of a Davenport apartment building over the weekend, Grassley said his office in Davenport is monitoring updates and were standing by to help in any way we can. Grassley said his office was helping a veteran replace medals lost in the collapse. City officials on Tuesday said five residents of the six-story apartment building remained unaccounted for, and at least two of them might be stuck inside wreckage and debris that was too dangerous to search. Grassley thanked emergency personnel who responded to the scene and helped rescue tenants. This is a scary situation, he said. You just dont expect things like this to happen in a major economy, economic country like America. Its more of a third-world situation. SALIX, Iowa (AP) Ron DeSantis blitzed through Iowa during his first full day of presidential campaigning on Wednesday, aiming for the kind of personal connections with voters that critics say have long eluded him while stepping up his verbal swipes at former President Donald Trump. The Florida governor packed in four appearances that took him to cities, rural locales and the conservative heartland following his glitch-filled online campaign kickoff last week. The first was to the floor of Port Neal Welding in Salix, a rural town near Sioux City, where the nearby highway was lined with metal structures including a towering Jesus, a version of the Statue of Liberty and the Minions. DeSantis also hit Council Bluffs and Pella before concluding his day in Cedar Rapids. All that came after a Tuesday night appearance in the state capital, Des Moines. He didnt take audience questions usually a staple at Iowa presidential campaign events during the five stops in front of more than 2,000 people combined across both days. Instead, DeSantis gave similar speeches at each appearance, repeatedly talking up his efforts to push Florida farther to the right. While he sometimes seemed energized by the crowds, he barreled through his remarks at other times talking so fast that there were few pauses for the audiences to applaud. By the final event, though, he was better about allowing time for cheers, especially from an enthusiastic crowd of around 600 in Cedar Rapids. The tired dogmas of the past are inadequate for a vibrant future. We have to look forward, DeSantis said in Salix, speaking in front of a green tractor and a crowd of about 100, many wearing caps bearing seed company logos. We cant look backwards. We must have the courage to lead and we must have the strength to win. DeSantis is trailing Trump in the polls and has been dogged by criticism that, while hes comfortable on stage, he can seem halting and awkward when interacting with regular voters. Displaying a personal touch that resonates with voters is vital in states like Iowa. Thats a departure from Florida and its large, expensive media markets, where television advertising is often more important than on-the-ground campaigning. Trying to position himself as the most formidable alternative to Trump in the crowded-but-still-forming Republican White House primary field, DeSantis didn't mention the former president by name during his speeches. But he did question the direction of a GOP that continues to be dominated by Trump. We have to dispense with the culture of losing that weve seen throughout the Republican Party," he told a crowd of hundreds of cheering supporters in Council Bluffs, adding that the party "should have 55 Republican senators right now, if we had played our cards right over the last few years. And he frequently mentioned that he felt like it would likely take two terms to really roll back the actions of the Biden administration a veiled reference to Trump, who can only serve one more term. But speaking to reporters after his Tuesday night speech at a suburban Des Moines church, DeSantis went even further. The governor accused Trump of abandoning America First principles on immigration, supporting coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns and generally having moved left." DeSantis also laughed off frequent criticism from the former president over his leadership in Florida, particularly on the states response to COVID-19. Hell, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship, DeSantis said. Attempting to display a softer side was DeSantis' wife, Casey, who was a fixture throughout Wednesday's multiple events and sometimes drew more applause than he did. She spoke most often about the couple's young children, and the importance of family and community. After his speech is Salix, both the governor and his wife sat for a fireside chat among hydraulic lifts and long welding tables arrayed with metal engine parts to offer stories of their favorite drive-thru chicken restaurant and their kids including a messy incident involving permanent marker drawings on the bathroom walls of the governors mansion. They just seem very down to earth, said Bev Lessman, a 70-year-old retired teacher from Sioux City. After speaking, DeSantis walked through the audience and Lessman wrapped her arms around DeSantis neck and told the governor she could feel what seemed to her to be the governors Christian devotion. I told him we cant make others live it, but I appreciated how he expressed his faith, she said later. He replied, But we can model it, she said. Others, though, felt like DeSantis was trying too hard to connect with voters. Geno Foral, 29, of Council Bluffs said he felt like most of DeSantis' speech there was prepared in advance to appeal to Iowa voters. But he also said the governor had delivered for Florida. It cant all be scripted because theres results in his leadership," Foral said. After Iowa, which leads off Republican primary voting, DeSantis was heading to New Hampshire on Thursday and South Carolina on Friday two other locales that vote early on the party's primary calendar, and where face-to-face interactions with voters are especially important. Already scheduled to be in Iowa on Thursday, meanwhile, Trump added Wednesday stops in the state to overlap with DeSantis. While taping a radio appearance in Des Moines, the former president called DeSantis a very disloyal person" but also said the two were locked in a certain kind of war. The person thats in second place, you go after that person as opposed to a person thats in eighth or ninth place, Trump told radio host Simon Conway, who asked why Trump is attacking fellow Republicans. Trump added of DeSantis: Im running against him and I think, you know, maybe one of the things that people like about me is that I do fight. You know, how would you like it if I came out and I just wimped around and told you, Oh gee, hes a wonderful person'?" DeSantis will be back in Iowa again Saturday for an event for 2024 GOP hopefuls hosted by Sen. Joni Ernst. They will be joined by declared candidates including Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, along with former Vice President Mike Pence. So much travel across multiple states will give DeSantis a lot of unscripted moments with voters and he got a taste of that as he moved through the audience at the end of the Salix appearance. Some people approached the governor with specific points, as did Mark Choquette, who questioned DeSantis about his assertions that two terms were needed to succeed. If he dont bust ass and tear up D.C. in the first term, he may not get a second term, and then where he be? asked Choquette, a 76-year-old retired U.S. Marine and Vietnam War veteran. Thats one reason I like Trump. He doesnt have to worry about getting reelected." Weissert reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Josh Funk in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Jill Colvin in New York and Steve Peoples in Clive, Iowa, contributed to this report. DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) A teenage sex trafficking victim who fatally stabbed the man she accused of abusing her was resentenced Wednesday to probation, telling an Iowa judge that she now has a support system to help keep her on track. Prosecutors agreed that Pieper Lewis should continue her probation rather than be incarcerated. Polk County Attorney Kimberly Graham told the judge that her office sees her as a human being, that she is vulnerable to revictimization and that there is low risk she will commit more violence. Lewis, now 18, had faced a 20-year prison sentence for the June 2020 fatal stabbing of 37-year-old Zachary Brooks, who Lewis said she was trafficked to against her will and forced to have sex with multiple times at age 15. She pleaded guilty in September to involuntary manslaughter and willful injury and was sentenced to probation. Polk County Judge David Porter ruled then that Lewis' charges would have been expunged from her record had she kept to the terms of her probation. That decision was revoked Wednesday. I indicated to you last year youve asked for a second chance, you dont get a third. I stand by that, Porter said to Lewis. There are consequences for your actions. You have now been convicted of two felony offenses. Lewis acknowledged in court that she violated the terms of her agreement when she cut her GPS monitor and walked out of the Fresh Start Womens Center without permission in November. She was arrested days later and has been held at the Polk County jail since then. Lewis wrote a letter to Porter, dated April 5, that described a success plan for probation, according to court documents. The team I have now is my biggest support, and I need to stop fighting them, Lewis said in a statement to the judge Wednesday. I refuse to fail and I refuse to let the system fail me. Ive developed a plan and an option so I will succeed this time. At Wednesdays hearing, defense witnesses described the importance of trauma-informed care for child sex trafficking victims and the research showing a high propensity to run away among this population. The type of court-ordered placement can determine the entire future of this young person, said Yasmin Vafa, executive director of Rights4Girls, who testified virtually. Being in a placement that is a prison-like atmosphere, it can greatly exacerbate that trauma. Her attorneys were visibly emotional, calling themselves her family, as Porter questioned the teenager's ability to commit to the rehabilitation plan and address criminal tendencies. Matthew Sheeley, one of Lewis' attorneys, said they were disappointed that she was formally convicted on Wednesday but ultimately relieved by the continuation of her probation. Lewis will remain in jail until the Department of Corrections determines an appropriate facility. The Associated Press does not typically name victims of sexual assault, but Lewis agreed to have her name used previously in stories about her case. A similar case in Wisconsin made its way to that states Supreme Court, which ruled that a woman accused of killing a man who was sexually assaulting her could use the fact that she was sex trafficked as a defense in her criminal case. That case is ongoing. Omahas electric utility will consider a $2 billion expansion proposal next month to meet unprecedented energy needs, and electric bills are likely to go up to pay for it. Officials say a mix of residential, business and industrial growth has sparked a need for the Omaha Public Power District to quickly increase energy production. And it appears data centers are major drivers of these new power demands. OPPD expects that its peak energy load will increase at a rate of about 100 megawatts each year for the foreseeable future. Thats the equivalent of adding about 65 metro-area high schools or midsize hospitals in just one year, according to the utility. OPPD has a plan to prepare for that need, but it wont come cheap. The plan calls for a capital investment of more than $2 billion in OPPDs infrastructure. While exact numbers are yet to be determined, rate increases could range from 2.5% to 3% each year from 2027 to 2030, totaling 10% to 11% by 2030. OPPD President and CEO Javier Fernandez put the Omaha areas growing energy needs into perspective during a recent board meeting of the public utility. Less than five years ago, OPPDs annual energy growth was about four megawatts per year. Soon it will be 100MW, he said. People are moving to the state, people are building homes, businesses are expanding, new businesses are moving into the state, Fernandez said. Energy consumption is expected to grow across commercial, industrial and residential classes with industrial customers expected to increase the most. In 2022, the industrial class made up about 36% of the utilitys energy sales. That share is expected to rise to 57% by 2032, according to a presentation shared during an OPPD committee meeting. The main reason: data centers. They are predicted to account for roughly two-thirds of all growth. Data centers are one of the most energy-intensive building types, consuming 10 to 50 times as much energy per square foot as the commercial office building, according to the U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy. Demand for data increased significantly during the COVID pandemic as employees and students went remote. Demand for data storage also has increased as new technology, artificial intelligence and virtual reality expands. Energy consumption by data centers has exploded over the past decade, said Ryan Wishart, a Creighton assistant professor whose research includes environmental politics. Wishart estimates that a typical data center, which uses more than 100 megawatts of electricity, has about the same power usage as 41,667 average OPPD residential customers. The increase in electrical consumption has prompted campaigns by environmental groups to pressure large tech companies, including Google, Facebook and Amazon, to commit to buying enough renewable energy to cover 100% of their consumption, Wishart said. Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is one example. The company opened a data center in Sarpy County in 2019 and expanded to 4 million square feet of space last year. The Facebook facility is supported by 100% renewable energy, made possible by investments in wind energy, and thanks in part to a wind farm in Dixon County in northeast Nebraska. Meanwhile, in October 2019, Google broke ground on a $600 million data center in Papillion and announced the opening of a northwest Omaha data center in 2022 and an expansion in 2023. The tech giant has pledged to meet 100% of the power they use through renewable sources 24 hours a day by 2030. In practice, however, these facilities may need to pull energy from multiple sources. Data centers draw power from the grid 24 hours a day, whether solar and wind energy they buy is being produced or not. They can cause utilities to burn more fossil fuels to meet their needs, Wishart said. Those emissions dont go away just because they pay for more solar than they actually use the next day or week to try to balance the numbers out. Booming development and data centers will combine with another factor driving the projected energy increase. The Southwest Power Pool, a regional transmission group that OPPD belongs to, last year increased its planned reserve margin, or the energy generation amount needed beyond the utilitys peak energy need, from 12% to 15%. OPPD needs to increase its capacity to meet this requirement. To handle future demand, OPPDs proposed energy generation plan calls for 1,000 to 1,500 megawatts of renewables (wind and solar), which would include generation from the utilitys previously approved Power with Purpose effort. The plan also includes up to 125 megawatts of battery storage, 600 to 950 megawatts of thermal power (such as natural gas), at least 32 megawatts of demand response (shifting or shedding electricity demand to help balance the grid) and approximately 320 megawatts of added fuel capability and fuel oil storage at existing generation facilities essentially, upgrading current facilities to allow for additional capacity during winter and extreme conditions. All told, the proposed expansion represents a massive increase in OPPDs ability to generate power. Its taken us almost eight decades to build what we have today, Fernandez told the board. And these additional resources that were going to ask the board to consider for approval next month, were nearly going to double the current generation capabilities. While the plan does include some renewable power generation, some people feel its not enough. Theyre moving much faster on their promises of fossil fuels than they are on clean energy, said David Corbin, the Nebraska Sierra Clubs energy committee chair. The Sierra Club would like to see what the group calls smart growth, including support for building codes that require energy efficiency and sustainable construction materials. In public health and medicine, we say uncontrolled growth is cancer, Corbin said. Theres a difference between good growth and growth for growth sake. OPPD board members are scheduled to consider the plan during their June 15 meeting. No public hearing is planned, but more information on generation needs, proposed plans and opportunity for public comments can be found at OPPDCommunityConnect.com. A listening session hosted by OPPD Board President Eric Williams also is planned for June 5 at 5 p.m. at the Fontenelle Park Pavilion, 4407 Fontenelle Blvd. In 2019, OPPD launched Power with Purpose, a plan that sought to add solar power and natural gas to meet load growth through 2026. Those projects have added to OPPDs energy generation, but the utility still needs to fill a gap, Fernandez said. We dont have enough generation today to serve all the requirements that we have from customers who want to move in and begin service really, really fast, Fernandez said. We have to now talk to those large customers and tell them: Yes, we can serve. Yes, we are open for business. But give us a little bit of time. Current projects that support this work include new Standing Bear Lake Station and Turtle Creek Station natural gas facilities. A utility-scale solar array is also being built at the Platteview facility. The projects are on schedule and working through the federal regulatory approval process, according to OPPD. Its not going to be easy. Its not going to be cheap. Its not going to be fast. But we need to do this to really show up for Nebraska, Fernandez told board members. We need to make sure that we continue to be the economic engine that powers this amazing state of ours, he said. All the way from the Panhandle to the Missouri River, we are growing like weve never been. Biggest tornadoes in Nebraska of the past decade Biggest tornadoes in Nebraska of the past decade #15. Apr. 14, 2012 #14. Jun. 12, 2017 #13. May. 26, 2021 #12. May. 27, 2013 #11. Jun. 16, 2014 #10. Jun. 25, 2015 #9. Aug. 19, 2017 #8. Oct. 4, 2013 #7. Mar. 18, 2012 #6. May. 17, 2019 #5. Jun. 17, 2014 #4. May. 11, 2014 #3. May. 11, 2014 #2. Jun. 16, 2014 #1. Oct. 4, 2013 LINCOLN Nebraska gas stations will soon be required to offer fuel blended with up to 15% ethanol. State lawmakers passed Legislative Bill 562 in a 46-0 vote Tuesday, sending it to Gov. Jim Pillens desk for his signature. If signed, the law will take effect in late August, 90 days after the session ends on Thursday. While the bill spurred some opposition in previous rounds with the main criticism being that it represented government overreach the final round of debate was quick, with no lawmakers speaking for or against the measure. Corn is one of the largest components of Nebraskas agriculture industry, and ethanol makes up one of the biggest shares of that. According to the Nebraska Corn Board, the states 24 ethanol plants use more than 750 million bushels of corn annually. The plants are able to produce over 2 billion gallons of the fuel, and Nebraska is the nations second-largest ethanol producer. Even so, State Sen. Myron Dorn of Adams said during an earlier round of debate, Nebraska is ranked near the bottom of the nation in ethanol usage, with much of its ethanol being exported to other states. Dorn, who introduced LB 562, said requiring 15% ethanol fuel to be offered at gas stations will benefit the farmers who produce the fuel. We should be showing that we can support our farmers, Dorn said. Many gas stations in Nebraska already offer gasoline blended with up to 10% ethanol. Several opponents said the requirements in LB 562 amount to a government mandate on businesses. Dorn pushed back against this critique, noting the bill exempts businesses that would need to spend more than $15,000 to make the changes and for those who sell low amounts of fuel per year, among other provisions. Sen. Steve Halloran of Hastings said he did agree that the bill is a mandate but still supported it as a conservative because it will help Nebraskas biggest industry and will give drivers more choices at the pump. Other supporters said that more ethanol production in Nebraska would create jobs and reduce the price of gas. They also said it is a cleaner form of energy that will reduce the states dependence on oil. Anytime we can agree with the EPA, I think its a good day, said Sen. Teresa Ibach of Sumner. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of May 2023 ZVECAN, Kosovo (AP) International efforts to defuse a crisis in Kosovo intensified Wednesday as ethnic Serbs held more protests in a northern town where recent clashes with NATO-led peacekeepers sparked fears of renewed conflict in the troubled region. Hundreds of Serbs repeated at a rally their demand for the withdrawal from northern Kosovo of the special police and ethnic Albanian officials who were elected to mayor's offices in votes overwhelmingly boycotted by Serbs. The crowd then spread a huge Serbian flag outside the city hall in the town of Zvecan. The rising tensions have fueled concern about another war like the 1998-99 fighting in Kosovo that claimed more than 10,000 lives, left more than 1 million people homeless and resulted in a NATO peacekeeping mission that has lasted nearly a quarter of a century. Working to avert any escalation, European Union officials met with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti on the sidelines of a conference in Bratislava, Slovakia. The leaders of France and Germany announced plans to meet top Serbia and Kosovo officials on Thursday at a summit in Moldova. The current situation is dangerous and unsustainable, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. "We need urgent de-escalation." Speaking in Slovakia, Kurti flatly rejected Serb demands but left the door open for fresh local elections. As long as there is a violent mob outside the municipal buildings, we must have our special units, he said. If there would have been peaceful protests asking for early election, that would attract my attention, and perhaps I would consider that request. Kurti also suggested that Russia may have a hand in the latest flare-up, pointing to protesters who do graffiti with letter Z" and show admiration for despotic Russian President Vladimir Putin and for the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Russia is a close Serbian ally, although Belgrade populist leaders claim to be seeking European Union membership. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday that Moscow is monitoring the situation and supporting all legitimate rights and interests of Kosovo Serbs." Wednesday's protest in Zvecan, 45 kilometers (28 miles) north of the capital, Pristina, ended peacefully. On Monday, ethnic Serbs tried to storm municipal offices and fought with both Kosovo police and the peacekeepers, leaving 30 NATO soldiers and 50 rioters injured. A former province of Serbia, Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence is recognized by Washington and most EU nations but not by Belgrade, Russia or China. Serbs are a minority in Kosovo, but they constitute a majority in parts of the country's north bordering Serbia. Many reject the Albanian-majority territory's claim of independence. The United States and the European Union recently stepped up efforts to solve the dispute. NATO said it will send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests after the clashes on Monday. The NATO-led peacekeeping mission known as KFOR currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. A German government spokesperson said Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron plan to meet Thursday with the leaders of Serbia and Kosovo. Spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit told reporters in Berlin that the meeting will take place on the sidelines of the European Political Community meeting in Chisinau, Moldova. The confrontation first unfolded last week after ethnic Albanian officials entered municipal buildings to take office with an escort of Kosovo police. When Serbs tried to block the officials, Kosovo police fired tear gas to disperse them. In Zvecan on Monday, angry Serbs again clashed first with the police and later with NATO-led troops who tried to secure the area. Serbia put the countrys military on its highest state of alert and sent more troops to the border with Kosovo. Western officials have sharply criticized both Kosovo authorities for pushing to install the newly elected mayors and Serbs because of the violence. The Kosovo government's "decision to force access to municipal buildings sharply and unnecessarily escalated tensions, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said. He urged Kosovo to use alternate locations for the new mayors and withdraw police from the vicinity of the municipal buildings. Serbia, he said, should lower its army's alert level and make sure KFOR troops are not attacked. French President Macron also criticized Kosovo for organizing the municipal election in the country's north. He said Kosovo disrespected an EU-backed plan to normalize ties between former war foes. Very clearly, the Kosovar authorities are responsible for the current situation and for failing to respect an agreement that was important and that was sealed just a few weeks ago, he said. Serbia's defense minister on Wednesday told state broadcaster RTS that the security situation is highly risky because of one-sided, illegal, illegitimate decisions by the administration in Pristina." He referred to the occupation of the north of Kosovo. Serbian officials have repeatedly warned that Serbia would not stand idle if Serbs in Kosovo come under attack. Meanwhile in Pristina, the U.S. ambassador to Kosovo, Jeff Hovenier, said Kosovos participation in the Defender Europe 23 military drills has been canceled. The exercises involve some 2,800 U.S. troops and 7,000 soldiers from other nations, including Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece and Turkey. The 1998-1999 war in Kosovo erupted when ethnic Albanian separatists launched a rebellion against Serbia, which responded with a brutal crackdown. The war ended after NATO bombing forced Serbia to pull out of the territory. The Balkan region is still reckoning with the aftermath of a series of bloody conflicts in the 1990s during the violent breakup of the former country of Yugoslavia. On Wednesday, United Nations judges imposed increased sentences for two allies of former Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic who were convicted of an attempt to drive non-Serbs out of towns in Croatia and Bosnia during the wars in the 1990s. Milosevic also led Serbia during its 1998-1999 war in Kosovo. Why did you want to be a nurse? I wanted to be a nurse to be able to continue serving others in my community. As an active member of my church youth group, I understood at a young age what it meant to give back to others and felt how rewarding it was. What makes the job rewarding? Seeing my patients live a higher quality of life than they were prior to receiving our care and treatment. What role do nurses play in health care? Nurses are patient advocates. Nurses help patients meet their physical, emotional and social needs as well as providing direct hands-on patient care. Nurses are the main communication line between patients and doctors. What was your most challenging time in the profession? A challenging time for me, Im sure most health care professionals would agree, was the onset of COVID. There was and still are so many unknowns and developing studies on COVID. COVID came on so abruptly there wasnt time to develop policies and procedure on how to care for patients with COVID signs and symptoms. Rules and regulations are still being set into place and tend to vary from facility to facility. What do you want others to know about the profession? The nursing profession is forever changing. Nursing today is not the same as it was 20 years ago and will not be the same 20 years from now. Participating in continuing education courses along with having the will to continue learning throughout one's career is an important aspect of being a nurse. As the saying goes, You learn something new every day. Some days in nursing, it is multiple new things in one day. Why should someone become a nurse? Someone should become a nurse if they carry qualities of compassion, are caring, patient, and organized, have empathy, are able to adapt quickly, have critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They must always be willing to learn and broaden their knowledge of the health care field every day. What dont patients realize about medicine? Some patients may not realize medicine requires a great deal of team work. Nurses and doctors may be the front line but there are many specialties on the back side helping us out: X-ray/MRI/CT techs, lab techs, phlebotomy, pharmacy techs, coders/billing department, clinical assistants, CMAs, LPNs, physical/occupational therapists, appointment schedulers and front desk ambassadors. Who has been instrumental in your success? My husband, Sean, and my parent have been the most instrumental in my success as a nurse. All the past and present nurses, scrub techs, CMAs/CAs, X-ray techs and doctors I have had the privilege to work and learn from have also been instrumental in my success. Describe a typical day. My typical day included facilitating care for my patients by triaging patients based on their needs, scheduling office visits and referrals, ordering and scheduling testing such as X-rays, MRI and CT scans, EMG and ultrasound studies, as well as scheduling surgeries and post-operative care follow up appointments and physical therapy. Are you a good patient? Or does working in health care change the way you view the profession? Yes, I feel I would be a good patient. I am able to empathize with nurses at other clinics and within the hospital when they may be running behind schedule or having a tough day, as I have been in similar situations. C.M. Lucca was a staff writer for the City Paper from 1982 to 1989, and a Pulitzer winner for her investigative reporting. Despite that, shes now best known as the widow of the conceptual artist, songwriter, and provocateuse X. After Xs death in 1996 Lucca investigated her life and uncovered her origins in the Southern Territory, among other secrets. Luccas only book, Biography of X, was a instant bestseller upon its publication in March 2005. This conversation between critic Dan Kois and C.M. Lucca took place at the New York Public Library on May 31, 2005, a few months after that publication. Though subsequent events made this evening notorious, the conversation itself is of great interest, given how few public appearances Lucca made. A videotape of that evening was recently unearthed by the staff of the weekly magazine Slate; the interview is published here, in slightly edited form, for the first time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dan Kois: Please welcome to the stage prizewinning journalist, bestselling author, widow of X: C.M. Lucca. [Extended applause.] C.M. Lucca: Oh, OK. You seem taken aback by all this. I dont know how else to take it. Your biography became very personal as you uncovered secrets about X you never expected to find. What has it been like for you since the book was published, and now others know these secrets, too? Quite honestly its been unpleasant. I dont know if I expected this unpleasantness or if it was a surprise. What has been unpleasant about it? I just imagine that people who write books, people who set out to write books and write them, and publish themwell, the publication is something they plan for, hope for. And Im not saying this out of modestyI really did not want to write this book. Therefore I didnt plan on publishing a book. Therefore I didnt plan on speaking about a book I didnt plan on writing. Anyone who has read it might know why it was an unpleasant thing to write. And talking about it is both a privilege and a truly difficult thing. Ive been convinced that talking to people about the book is what is expected, it is the cooperative thing. And I dont want to be uncooperative. Advertisement Advertisement It never bothered X to be uncooperative. True. In the years we were together I became a lot like her. I became her shadow. But Im not her shadow anymore. Has there been a particular response to the book that you felt really captured what you were hoping people would find in it? This may sound pompous but I wasnt particularly concerned with how anyone responded to the work. I barely consider myself a writer. Its something I do so infrequently. But I do enjoyenjoy? Well, ok, for lack of better word I enjoy the process of research when the topic is compelling enough. I spent many years working as a crime reporter I was not the envy of my colleagues, but I didnt mind the work. I liked this feeling of something having already occurred and having to go back over the facts. With this book it was the same. Something had already happened and I had to go over the facts. It was that simple, at least in some ways. Have you heard from other figures from Xs past? Has Oleg Hall, Xs longtime patron, read it? Oh. I dont know. Im not in touch with Oleg and dont care to be. As for the others my publisher received some letters, but I asked for them not to be forwarded. Slate receives a commission when you purchase items using the links on this page. Thank you for your support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Did you read the reviews? Many of them were laudatory, but one, by Isaac Butler in Slateon the cover of the magazine, no lesswas sharply critical. What did you think of that? If I really wanted to be a biographerthat is, if I planned on doing something like this book again then the reviews would mean something to me. They might give me clues about how to do it better next time. But I dont plan on writing anything like this ever again, if I write anything ever again, so the reviews dont hold much weight for me. Theyre a part of something else. Something else? Another world. A part of the marketing. A part of a book world I dont belong to. What has the response been like in the former Southern Territory, where you discovered X was born and raised? As you know our channels of communication between the South and North are still rather compromised. I received some death threats. The FBI has told me theyre essentially empty threats, but I suppose its the worst possible reaction you could expect from a books publication, isnt it? Advertisement Advertisement I dont know, some authors might welcome it, compared to no response at all. [Audience laughter.] Yes, well you might want to be ignored in the Southern Territory. For several reasons, obviously. Though of course its not the content of the book the AFK wants to kill me overits the existence of the book itself. That kind of rage. Of course, the fifty years of separation between the Southern Territory and the North make up the backdrop to any American story. Like most Northerners, Ive never been to the South. Was it frightening? I didnt feel afraid at all while I was there, except for my last night in Mississippi, of course, as described in the book. Other than that, its only when I recall that trip that Im afraid for myself. Advertisement Advertisement How did your visit change your opinion of the former Southern Territory? Wellyou see, because X did not want to speak about the divide, or anything directly political, for that matter, I stopped reading about it. I lived as if it was not happening, which of course if how so many of us had to live those years. You have to ignore certain things in order to go on with your life But I spent almost all my time with Xshe defined me completely, and I stopped, I think, having an opinion about the divisions for those years. So when the wall came down and my wife died I felt entirely ignorant of the history and implications of the Disunion. Ive tried to read, to learn, to make up for that time, but to be quite honest I feel a little lost. Theres so much I dont understand about it, about how it was possible to begin with, about how it went on for as long as it did. Youre very conscientious about crediting the writers whose research informed your biography. Who are some of the writers on the South who really influenced your thinking? I was so cautious and really quite ill-informed when I began this research that I admire the sorts of writers who were able to face the enormity and the danger of the ST with total confidence in their reporting and fearlessness in the face of state violence. Renata Adler was an important one for me. There are many others, but I think we all owe quite a debt to Adler. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Your book also serves as a primer to the critical landscape of the 1970s and 1980s. For a younger reader like me, its invaluable not only for its portrait of X, but for introducing me to writers of that era like Michelle Dean, Naomi Fry, and Richard Cusk. I was fascinated to discover Cusks 1980 essay Can Male Artists Really Be Artists? What kind of impact did that essay have on the art world at the time, and how did Xs seeming rebuke through her 1982 show The Human Subject change the way people looked at it? Its rare that an essay ever has such a direct and immediate upon such a large group of people, but the Cusk essay really did just that. It changed the art world, almost immediately, though I wasnt really aware of its impact until I was conducting my research for the biography. X was rather antagonistic towards, well, everyone in the art world, regardless of gender. I think Cusks writing did have an effect on her, but she never liked other people to see her as capable of receiving influence. She saw herself as influential to others she had to. It was her means of survival. Speaking of her influence on others: I was amazed to read about Xs impact on a young Denis Johnson. She wrote to him as Clyde Hill, one of her many personae, the author of the cult classic The Reason Im Lost. Why do you think Johnson didnt want to talk to you? Like so many others, I imagine he wasnt pleased to discover that Clyde Hill was an invention. Advertisement Advertisement Even though that was so long ago? Yes, but grudges die hard. Many wanted to believe that the man behind the voice of that book really was a man who had lived through those stories, even though it was a novel. The power of that novel for some of its readers, at leastdepended on the possibility that it had all more or less happened, in real life, to a real man, to a man named Clyde Hill. But I respected Johnsons wish to not be too involved. He seems to me to be a sincere man, a sincere artist, and one could suggest that Xs work, whatever else it may or may not be, holds a degree of insincerity in it. Advertisement Advertisement X seems to have had a hand in so many important cultural moments of the past twenty years. Her recordings of Connie Converse songs; her albums with Bowie and Waits; her performances with Kathy Acker; her movie with Wim Wenders. But even now many of those works are fading into history. How do you think Xs contributions to the culture will be viewed 15, 20 years from now? Well, a person can never know the cultural significance of the moment youre living through. So its not for me to know or say, I think. In fact X often insisted that her work with Bowie was not important at all, that his work was mediocre, that she was embarrassed to be associated with him. [Audience laughter.] An astonishing idea. What do you think about that? Mr. Bowie is very talented. He does what he sets out to do. He was and is, of course, more well known that she ever was in her lifetime. Its possible that the way his music has been so widely embraced irritated her much more than the music itself. I know at times she tried to distance herself for this craving she had to be infamous, but she never escaped it. It colored her every movement. You quote a favorite line of Xs: It is better to cut than to tear. I might say that in reporting and writing this biography, you took a cutXs sudden deathand turned it into a long, painful tear. Why did you choose to publish the result? Ive asked myself this question a few times. I have no real answer. It was important to me to correct the widely adopted inaccuracies, to set the record straight I suppose. But now that its been set straight I am not sure what purpose the straightening really served. If it is indeed better to cut than to tear what would cutting have been in this case? Moving on immediately with a new life after she was gone? Some people are capable of such quick turns, I suppose. Others have to spend some time untangling, looking back over, slowing down, trying to understand, recollecting. [The interview was interrupted.] Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here. Dear Care and Feeding, I believe manners are how we show respect for others. Ive always taught my sons (12 and 9) to, at the very least, respond to a greeting from adults. At their current ages, I expect them to do this when they encounter adults they know and/or the parents of their friends when I am not around. However, a close friends children the same age as mine have never once responded when I greet her kids and shes not there. If I see them walking to or from school, I always say hello, but they do not acknowledge me. Not even a mumbled hi. Not even a hint of a smile. Not once. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I find it unbelievably rude. The other kids Ive known for years either initiate greeting or respond with a hello and a smile. Even the kids I know are painfully shy or on the autism spectrum seem capable of some acknowledgement. Since this has not bothered my friend all this time, Ive kept my mouth shut about it for years. But they are getting older now and their age wont excuse their rudeness much longer. Ive noticed they are like this with other parents they know too. Am I expecting too much here? Should I say something to them? To her? If it was my kids, I would want to know. It Takes a Village Dear Village, Advertisement Sometimes a village is needed, but I dont think this particular situation needs you. There could be all kinds of reasons why your friends kids behave the way they do. You dont know for certain that they arent neurodivergent or very shy. They might believe that they arent supposed to talk to adults without their own parent present. They also just might not like you? You might make them uncomfortable! I remember being nervous around some of my friends parents; I grew out of it, in most cases, but sometimes an adult would make me very ill at ease and I couldnt have explained why. I dont know whats going on with your friends kids, whether they have legitimate cause to act this way or not, and I get that you would feel better if they said hello. But I am fairly confident that you confronting or lecturing your friend or her children over this will not go particularly well or lead to some important transformation. Advertisement Advertisement Lets say, just for the sake of argument, that its not some understandable social anxiety or neurodivergence or personal discomfort or totally typical tweens-not-really-wanting-to-talk-to-their-parents-friends; lets say it is just an issue of rudeness. Youre not their parent. Were typically taught or not taught manners, according to our individual capacity and level of social comfort, by repeated modeling and instruction from those close to uswe dont base our behavior on the fact that one of our moms friends lost patience with us the one time. Youre entitled to your feelings about not being greeted, but I would suggest that you not let a relatively tiny thing like your friends kids not chit-chatting with you on their way home from school bother you overmuch, if you can help it. Instead, maybe try to be the kind of understanding, nonjudgmental friend who your friend can come to if she ever does need a villager. Advertisement Advertisement Want Advice From Care and Feeding? Submit your questions about parenting and family life here. Its anonymous! (Questions may be edited for publication.) Dear Care and Feeding, I am an ex-Jehovahs Witness, and unfortunately, that means that my family and friends who are Jehovahs Witnesses have to shun me. I am an identical triplet, and losing my sisters has been an absolute nightmare. Its been a year and Ive started to move on, but a frustrating situation has arisen. My father is not (and never was) a Jehovahs Witness. I mentioned to him recently that I would like to come and visit him. I suggested that I stay in a hotel for my mothers sake (she is shunning me). He insisted that I stay with them, since he doesnt approve of the shunning at all. We both agreed that I would wait to book my plane tickets until after he had a conversation with my mom about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the meantime, I mentioned to my never-Jehovahs Witness half-brother that I was going to go visit my dad. My half-brother freaked out and told me I was wrong for going to visit since it would upset our mother, and said that if my sisters, mother, and extended family are shunning me, I need to respect that. I became very upset and ended the conversation. He called my mother to warn her. All of the pain of the past year came flooding back. I left due to the poor handling of abuse I experienced in the group and the widespread coverup of abuse that has recently brought legal trouble to the organization. The rejection by my entire community for speaking up for the defenseless was confusing and heartbreaking. My own mother told me she would never speak to me again because she chooses Jehovah. Everyone went behind my back to try to expel me before I could leave so I wouldnt influence others to follow. My own mother called the leaders of my congregation to accuse me of apostasy, knowing it would mean that I could never be welcomed back and she would never talk to me again. I can respect their beliefs and not participate in them, but they are mandated not to do the same for me since Im a former member who speaks out about my lack of belief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My dad is now bargaining with my mother. Shes okay with me dropping by the house when shes not home, but says I cant stay the night. My father is 78 years old and disabled, so he doesnt have many bargaining chips. He wants to keep trying, but at this point, Im ready to throw in the towel. Do I just stay at their house against her wishes (but in favor of my dads), or book a hotel room and call it a day? I hate the idea of participating in my own shunning by acknowledging the practice, but at the end of the day, I just want to see my dad. Angry Apostate Advertisement Dear Angry, Its so unfair that you have to navigate this painful situation just to see your father, which you have every right to do. Whatever you decide, know that you are not participating in your own shunningyou are a victim of it; you did not instigate or choose it. Please dont shoulder that responsibility on top of everything else. Youve done nothing wrong. Obviously, this situation is deeply distressing and will be no matter where you stay when you visit your dad. I would try to think about what you personally will be most comfortable with, and make the decision based on that. How much does it matter to you to stay at the house? Is the risk of confrontation or further emotional fallout worth it to you? Do you want to go ahead and try to stay there, or would you prefer to visit with your father at home (or somewhere else, even) during the day, and then have the ability to go to your own space, a hotel room, at night? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other possibilities: You mentioned that your dad is disabled and implied that he relies on your mother; could he perhaps try telling your mom that if shes not home, he needs you there to help? Or could he perhaps go stay with you at a hotel or rental for two or three days, so you two will have more time together and not have to worry about possibly sharing a roof with or having to confront your mother? Advertisement This shouldnt be so hard. But since it is the situation youre dealing with, at least for now, and you still want to visit and spend time with your father, I would focus on that goal. Do what you need to do to see him, with the least possible amount of stress for both of you. Advertisement Slate Plus Members Get More Advice From Nicole Each Week From this weeks letter, I Told My Friends Why I Suspect Their Kid Has Struggled in School. They Ignored Me.: I wanted to say, Have you ever had your child evaluated? Dear Care and Feeding, I have three daughters, aged 13, 10, and 7. My 10-year-old, Aimee, was born with a congenital birth defect that left her with some mobility issues. Shes had surgeries over the years and is currently recovering from the latest one. Advertisement Every year, my kids spend a week with my parents while my husband and I go on a kid-free vacation. My kids love spending time with their grandparents and always look forward to this. My parents have helped out since they were babies, and they understand Aimees mobility issues and what works best for her. Following this most recent surgery, her mobility needs have changed drastically. She no longer needs as much supportits still probably a good idea to take her wheelchair if shes going somewhere where one may be expected to stand for long periods of time, like a museum or on a hike, but its much different than before, when anything more 70 steps without resting was too much for her. Aimee does not want us to tell my parents about her new mobility change. Her reasoning is that theyll assume that means that she no longer needs any support, and they wont think to pack her wheelchair to go to places where it wont be needed. Advertisement Advertisement My parents can be a bit stubborn and sometimes struggle to take children seriously, so if that idea were to enter their heads I could see that it would be difficult for Aimee to stand up for her needs. They also try too hard to be fun grandparents, always trying to bend rules. Despite our daughters insistence, for example, they did not believe that my oldest wasnt allowed to eat certain foods with her braces on, until they called me and confirmed. Even though weve had issues in the past, weve been willing to let them slide, knowing that if something serious comes up the kids will be able to call us. But this feels a bit more serious than the other things weve dealt with in the past. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I feel weird about not letting my parents know. On one hand, it feels weird lying to them when theyre going to be taking care of Aimee for a week and the news were withholding would be good news and require less work for them. On the other hand, I dont want Aimee to be stranded somewhere, and I can see my parents being forgetful about this. Theyve been very understanding of Aimees needs in the past, but I could see Aimee is doing better easily being misinterpreted as Aimee doesnt need her wheelchair anymore. How to Handle? Dear How to Handle, You should tell your parents the truth about your childs needs, because they need to know if shes going to be in their care, and this does not seem like the kind of thing you can or should hide from them indefinitely. Its certainly not great that they didnt listen to your child about the foods to avoid with bracesit sounds like you do need to have a serious conversation with them about the importance of listening to and believing your kids. Advertisement Advertisement You also say that they called and checked in with you, and believed you when you confirmed what your kid was saying about the forbidden foods. And you mentioned that theyve always been good about understanding Aimees mobility issues and supporting her in the past. So if you, her parents, are frank about her current capacity and needs with your parents ahead of the visit, and emphasize the fact that she does still need her wheelchair in certain situations and they should bring it along just in case, history suggests that they will listen to you. Be clear and explicit about everythingif youre worried that theyll hear Aimee is doing better as Aimee is completely cured, dont leave any room for doubt; tell them thats not what it means! You can also point out that she is still recovering from surgery, and part of that recovery depends on her doing what her doctors have told her and not overreaching. Advertisement Advertisement If youve trusted your parents with Aimees care in the past, and have left the kids with them for an entire week every year, I dont see a real reason to choose not to trust them now. While youre away enjoying kid-free time, keep communication opencheck in with Aimee and all your kids, as well as your parents. Its okay to do this a little more frequently, especially since she did have surgery recently. Make sure Aimee knows she can always call or text you if she needs to, for any reason. If you have any concerns at all about how your parents are handling the week with the kids or Aimees needs, dont shove it down or worry about keeping the peacespeak up right away, and be willing to cut your trip short if necessary (but I doubt it will be!). I do think honesty is the better policy hereyou can hear and validate your childs worries, and do your utmost to try to address any potential issues with your parents, without lying. Advertisement Advertisement Catch Up on Care and Feeding If you missed Thursdays column, read it here. Discuss this column in the Slate Parenting Facebook group! Advertisement Advertisement Dear Care and Feeding, We have kids who are all in their 20s. The older two love to travel, the youngest one hates it. My wife and I planned an international vacation this summer and gave the youngest one the option of coming. Not only does he not want to go, he wants my wife to not go so that he doesnt miss fun family time. He says he is not scared of staying home alone. He has an internship and a test to take while we are gone. He doesnt want an additional vacation later in the summer. We have tried to reason with him to no avail. My wife (who did most of the vacation planning) is distraught and seriously considering not going. We are usually a very close family. Im angry and dont know how to talk to my son about this. Advertisement Should She Stay or Go? Dear Stay or Go, Im not sure if you knew about your sons test or internship when you scheduled the trip. If you did, and wanted him to go with you, it would have been good to ask him for input before making firm plans. Whatever the case may be, it sounds like he has a conflict and also doesnt want to travel this summer, and hes an adult who can make that decision if he wants. I dont fully understand why he is trying to prevent your wife from going! But unless you have actual concerns about leaving him alone during that time, I think its fine to stick with the plan and have everyone else go as planned, including your wife. Its okay to be frustrated and angry about him trying to pressure your wife to stay home. Maybe, when tempers cool a bit, you can try to talk with him and find out whats behind that? It might also be worth asking whether there is some other travel window that could work better for him; maybe he could join for just part of the time, so he doesnt miss out entirely. If he says no, he still cant or wont go with you, I think you can calmly tell him that you accept his decision, and he should accept that youre all still planning to go on vacation. It doesnt make sense for others to miss out on the trip just because he doesnt want to go. Nicole More Advice From Slate Last weekend, my wifes and my mutual friend had a pool party for her 16-year-old daughters birthday party (at our condo pool). The birthday girl invited male and female schoolmates to the party, all around 15-to-17-year-olds. My wife started to put on her one-piece swimsuit to join the swimming until I stopped her. I felt like it was inappropriate for her to consider swimming with a bunch of teenagers, since she is a teacher at that school This is an abridged version of an article reported and published by the Marshall Project, a nonprofit news organization covering the U.S. criminal justice system. Sign up for their newsletters, and follow them on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Until his retirement from the U.S. Supreme Court last year, Stephen Breyer spent 28 years hearing cases that profoundly shaped American life, including landmark decisions on LGBTQ rights, reproductive rights, and criminal justice. Perhaps more than any of the other justices, Breyer was known as a pragmatist, guided by a belief that good government will outlast any one person or political fad. In his 2021 book, The Authority of the Court and the Peril of Politics, he argued that the court only has power when the public shares his faith in the importance of its role in our democracy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Marshall Project sat down with Breyer in his office at Harvard Law School earlier this year for a wide-ranging discussion about the death penalty, abortion, prisons, and how politics do (and do not) affect judges decision-making. In his book, and in our conversation, Breyer laid out his argument that the Supreme Courts power stems, in a way, from its powerlessness. Referring to writings by Alexander Hamilton, he said that Congress cannot have the last word on the Constitution because its members are elected. And elections are essentially popularity contests. The least popular person in this country has the same rights under this document as the most popular person, Breyer said The president cant be the final authority on the Constitution because he is the commander in chief of the armed forces, and when a single person has so much power, it is too easy for ego to get in the way. We dont want the president to have the last word. Hell say hes always right, Breyer said. Advertisement So Congress has the power of the purse. The president has the power of the sword. Judges? Theyre not perfect, Breyer argued. But at least they dont have that much power. Advertisement Read on for an abridged transcript of our conversation, edited for length and clarity. To read the full interview, edited for length and clarity, visit the Marshall Project. Can you walk me throughin your recent book, you argued that the court doesnt have the power of the purse. It doesnt have the power of the sword I didnt say that, by the way. That was Alexander Hamilton. Of course. But [you wrote that] all the court has is its legitimacy in the eyes of the people. At what point do you fear that they are undermining their own legitimacy? Advertisement Advertisement Well, Ive written in some opinionsor joined in the Dobbs case, and before, in Bush v. Gorethey shouldnt have taken it. Its going to be a self-inflicted wound. But remember, people tend to think of the court, good or badand good usually means We agree with the result, and bad usually means We dont agree with the result. And by the way, if you want politics, the appointment process is nothing but! The confirmation process, because of the people who are the political group, people will look for a judge who will have a way of deciding cases that they think will lead to more decisions that they like politically. But the judge doesnt think its political. The judge thinks that hes deciding it the right way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You make the argument that the Supreme Court has to not just be apolitical, but appear apolitical in order to maintain its legitimacy. Im not elected. My job is to do the best I can to get a correct, i.e., a legally correct, decision under the law. And law is not computer science. So in my view, not always, but Im trying to do this properly under law, not under politics or not under what the majority think. Thats Congress, the majority. But if you do it correctly, law will sort of evolve in a fairer direction, because that is what law is about. The words the freedom of speechthey dont explain themselves. [You as a judge have to interpret them.] Your background, who you are, you as a personof course it affects the decision. In not alland maybe not even manybut in a few cases. And thats important. And I used to think, What a pity. Not everyone agrees with me. But hey, its a big country. And so its not surprising, with every view possible in this country, that there are different views in terms of people being raised differently, having different experiences. That was Thurgood Marshall! He brought to the court experience that others didnt have. Very valuable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are changes over time, which are very important. And will we see change again? It sounds like youre saying that its all part of a natural kind ofmaybe pendulum is the wrong metaphor, buta natural progression. That the court is going to move to the left, its going to move to the right. And we dont know. You know who else, in my opinion, doesnt know? The judges who are there. Because it takes three, four, five years before you get used to that place. [Former Supreme Court Justice] Harry Blackmun told me when I first was appointed, Its an unusual assignment. And it sure is. Its a very unusual institution. And its very hard to sum it up. And of course, its not like the Court of Appeals, which is not like the District Court. And law is not computer science. Advertisement How is the Supreme Court different? Its part of one of the major institutions that Americans have under the Constitution to govern themselves. And you say, Well, then why dont they do whats popular? Why? Because this document, its written for everybody. The least popular person in this country has the same rights under this document as the most popular person. And if you let Congress on its ownmaybe they should have the last word! They do in many countries, the parliamentarians. But believe me, they are experts on popularity. And so Hamilton writes, he says thats the reason they dont have the power of the purse or the sword: We dont want the president to have the last word. Hell say hes always right. He might not, but he might. And Congress? Popularity! Judges, well, theyre not perfect, but at least they dont have that much power. And they dont, really, because you can get a few cases that are pretty awful. But its different, the power is different. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But [with] the 63 makeup right now, the six can just make decisions without having to compromise with anyone. No, they cant. Because theyre judges. Theyre lawyers. Thats what Learned Hand said. Who controls you? Someone asked him. [Pointing at his bookshelves.] Those books. Really. Please. If you are not interested in law, if you are not interested in trying to get this right, if you are not interested in trying to do a better decision rather than a worse decision, there are a lot of other good jobs that pay a lot more, so please dont do it. Why would you do it? And you say, Oh, because we become so important. That lasts about a year. President Bill Clinton, I think, was talking about himself. I heard him say at some point to a judge, You better like the job. The applause dies away after a year or so, and then youre left with the job. So youd better like it. Advertisement And the enemy there in the court? Its easy to say. Its one word: ego. Thats the enemy in human life. And you never get rid of it, but you try. And so the job is a fabulous job because you have to do your best in every case. You have to give what you have. And you understand that after about a year or two, and you do it. There is no payoff. There is no payoff to thinking youre a clique. You do have different views of some cases because of the way you approach the problem. And I will spend a lot of time trying to say to other people, I want to see how you approach it. And Im honest about that. And this is why I dont necessarily accept that. And thats what youre writing in a dissent. And sometimes you get them to move. And when youre sitting around that table, you listen to what people say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even in the current Supreme Court? Of course! My God! Thats not phony! Its true! Nobody believes me. But its true. You think I like Dobbs? There were a few words in that dissent I dont normally use, or join. But no, I thought that was wrong. And I wrote my reasons. But youre saying that doesnt change all the other things [that give the court staying power]. You cant change an institution thats been around for 100 to 200 years. You can over time. And there have been some terrible days. What do you think about Dred Scott? What about Plessy v. Ferguson? There have been a lot of bad, bad, bad days. What about Korematsu? Even the good ones. I wrote in a different book, youre certainly free to read, about Cooper v. Aaron. Little Rock. The Little Rock Nine. And sending in the troops. And Cooper v. Aaron, the court said after, you have to keep integrating. Do it. All nine signed it. You know what? The governor told the city: Close the schools. Advertisement And they couldnt last. It couldnt last. Because the country had awakened to the problem. And we have Martin Luther King, and we have Rosa Parks, and we have the Freedom Riders. Advertisement Advertisement No one knows exactly what will work and what will not. Of course, when there have been major changes, the public is generally going along, but not all the public. Remember the Impeach Earl Warren signs? They were all over the South! What do you think? You think every decision has been popular? Its far too soon. Far too soon. This is an important institution, and the people who are there know, as I knew. And it takes time. And theyve only been there a short time. You begin to learn the mores, and you begin to see you have a bigger job than just getting what you happen to think is the nicest thing at the moment. Advertisement Advertisement It seems, from reading some of your writings about the death penalty pre-Glossip, you were never its biggest fan. But it wasnt until Glossip that you came out so forcefully and said, It is unconstitutional. I didnt say that. I said we should reconsider [whether it was constitutional]. Thurgood Marshall made a point to vote to grant every stay of execution. Or, in cases where the stay was not granted, to dissent, every time. I didnt. Advertisement Can you talk about why? Because I said when I wrote Glossip, I think we should take it. If I lose, I lose. And Im going to go back to following what the law is, in the absence of your taking my wise advice and reconsidering. And I did, pretty much. Every so often I would write something to remind people of Glossip. And I would say, this person has been on death row for 35 years. Is that going to make a difference to general deterrence? To specific deterrence? To reforming his character? Or even to vengeance, if you want to call it that, or retribution? I dont think so. I would write something and say, What is going on? Its very expensive. Whats happening here? And look at this case. So I do that occasionally because I dont want people to forget. The legislatures, too. They can read very well. Al Pacino will become a father again. According to one of the American tabloids, the star and his girlfriend Noor Alfallah are expecting a child, which will be his fourth. The 29-year-old woman, for whom this will be her first child, is currently eight months pregnant. The 83-year-old did not comment on the rumors about the pregnancy of his partner, with whom he has been together since April 2022. Hollywood stars often surprise with their decisions. It is therefore not unusual for actors to be proud of the title of new father at a respectable age. He recently turned 79 Robert De Niro welcomed his seventh child, and is now expected to follow in his footsteps Al Pacino. The 83-year-old, according to the magazine TMZ she is expecting her fourth child. Al Pacino is expecting his fourth child. PHOTO: Profimedia The acting star is said to be with his partner Noor Alfallah welcome the baby next month, as the 29-year-old is already eight months pregnant. The news that they are expecting an increase is in favor People confirmed the spokesman of the famous actor, while Al Pacino did not comment on his partners pregnancy. The two stars have been romantically linked since April 2022, but have always kept their privacy away from the public eye. Some sources close to the couple claim that they started meeting during the pandemic. Noor also does not post many photos on social media, so her pregnancy has remained a secret without any problems until now. READ MORE Al Pacino at dinner with Mick Jaggers ex-girlfriend The American actor has an ex-girlfriend Jane Tarrant 33-year-old daughter Julie Mariewith Beverly DAngelowith whom he was in a relationship from 1997 to 2003, and also has 22-year-old twins Anton and Olivia. The 29-year-old, who is known for liking much older, but especially very rich men, dated the actor with Mick Jagger and billionaires Nicolas Berggruen. During the relationship with the bands frontman The Rolling Stones was only 22, while the singer had 74. In a remarkable breakthrough announced at the University of Southern Oregons Conference on Creativity, OpenAIs large language model, GPT-4, scored in the top 1% on the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (TTCT), outperforming human capacities in fluency, flexibility, and originality. Small business owners and innovators may need to reconsider their strategies for idea generation and problem-solving, as the creative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) platforms like GPT-4 is put in the spotlight. In a study led by researchers Erik Guzik, Christian Byrge, and Christian Gilde from the Universities of Montana and Vilnius, the language model showcased its creative capabilities on the TTCT the recognized gold standard for assessing creativity since the 1970s. GPT-4 excelled in tasks such as asking probing questions, generating ideas for product enhancement, brainstorming alternative uses for existing products, and envisioning future scenarios. When benchmarked against human responses, GPT-4s performance was staggering. Across eight tests, the AI scored in the top 1% for fluency the capacity to generate a significant number of responses per task. In flexibility, the capability to produce varied ideas and transition between approaches, GPT-4 ranked in the top 1% for three tests, top 2% for two, and top 7% for the remaining three. In terms of originality, GPT-4 managed to land in the top 1% in all tests, demonstrating its knack for delivering unique and innovative responses. The research team stated, These results are more than just impressive. They suggest that we need to reconsider how AI creativity can assist humans in solving complex and critical problems, especially during idea generation, evaluation, elaboration, and testing. Small businesses often face resource constraints, limiting their ability to hire and maintain a large staff or invest in extensive market research. This is where AIs immense creative potential can make a real difference. From brainstorming product development strategies to devising effective marketing tactics, the fluency, flexibility, and originality demonstrated by GPT-4 can serve as a powerful tool for small businesses to innovate and compete effectively. The studys findings could spark a rethinking of how we define, evaluate, and cultivate creativity in various spheres, including education, organizations, and society at large. The prospect of a human-AI partnership to tackle intricate challenges appears more promising than ever, given the demonstrated creative prowess of models like GPT-4. The research team plans to delve deeper, exploring how to refine GPT-4s creative capacities in specific domains such as business innovation and entrepreneurship. Their full findings and additional research are set to be published this summer. In the era of AI and automation, small business owners have an unprecedented opportunity to leverage cutting-edge technology for creativity and innovation. With GPT-4s demonstrated creativity, a new chapter in AI-assisted problem-solving and idea generation appears to be unfolding, potentially transforming how small businesses operate, innovate, and compete. For the latest, follow us on Google News. The laundromat industry has been strong since the 1900s and is now poised for even stronger growth. Do people still need laundromats? Remember, during the pandemic, laundromats were considered essential businesses. One of the main reasons for that growth is advances in technology that improve the doing the laundry experience: Smart Phone users can connect with laundry equipment such as washers and dryers, to check the status of their laundry in the wash and dry cycles. Also, they can pay through Apps. Franchise designs often include flat-screen TVs, WIFI, and even childrens play areas. As a franchise, the laundromat has a very low failure rate, with more than 90% of new businesses still running strong after five years. There are laundry franchise opportunities to fit the type of business best for your area. For example, a laundromat franchise can be totally self-serve, or you can add laundry services such as wash, dry and fold services. Understanding the Laundromat Business Model Lets delve into the business model. There are two main franchise types. Laundromat franchise Washers, dryers and an inventory of products (detergent, dryer sheets). The franchisor helps with choosing and securing the location, design of the laundromat franchise and marketing. Laundromat equipment franchise This type of franchise focuses on providing commercial quality equipment at your predetermined location. For example, the owners of an apartment complex could like to set up a laundry business in the building for tenants use. Or, the owner of a vacant commercial property in a busy downtown area installs a laundromat franchise or equipment franchise for the use of local business people. How Does a Laundry Service Franchise Work? The franchise fees are typically low, but the franchisee needs to have a good amount of liquid cash available. That number ranges from $100,000 to $300,000. Franchise fees range from $30,000 to $75,000. Some have no franchise fees, but the required amount of liquid cash is higher. Both franchisor and franchisee benefit from a name brand association that helps build the customer basealso, both benefit from having access to quality, dependable commercial equipment at a reasonable price. After the startup, the laundromat owners then focus on maintenance and utilities. In most laundry businesses, there are few employees unless additional services are added, such as washing, drying and folding, or pickup and delivery. How Profitable is the Average Laundromat? The average traditional coin laundromat nets from $15,000 to $100,000 annually. The average laundry franchise does much better. There are laundry franchises that are clearing $10,000 to $40,000 MONTHLY. The estimated Return on Investment ranges from 20 to 35%. The Top 12 Laundromat Franchise Opportunities Which is the best laundromat franchise? In todays world, many customers make it a point to be eco-friendly by reducing water and energy use. They also want cleanliness and comfort so that a chore is made as pleasant as it can be. 1. Eco Laundry Company The Eco Laundry Company has set the standard for environmental consciousness. The Eco Laundry franchise uses energy-efficient machines, and the business is run 100% using wind energy. The franchise fee is $30,000 and youll need a minimum of $230,000 in liquid cash. 2. Speed Queen Speed Queen has a cloud-based management platform for managers and offers customers App-based payments. Services such as pick up/delivery and wash, dry, and fold can be added with the Speed Queen franchise. Youll need $300,000 in liquid cash and a net worth of $2 million. 3. Maytag Maytag also has commercial equipment that allows cashless payments and remote monitoring by customers (of the wash and dry cycles). Youll need $75,000 in liquid cash. Financing is available privately through Maytag through its partnership with Eastern Funding. 4. Supersuds The Supersuds franchise is currently only available in Virginia and Pennsylvania. Supersuds will help the franchisee secure a location and design the facility. The Supersuds facility will include flatscreen TVs, WIFI, and radio. Youll need $100,000 in liquid cash. 5. Zoom Express The Zoom Express laundry franchise is available in Michigan, Texas, Florida and Pennsylvania. Zoom Express offers credit card and mobile payments. Youll need $100,000 in liquid cash and the franchise fee is $39,500. As the name implies, the franchise focuses on speedy wash and dry times. 6. WaveMAX The WaveMAX franchisor plan includes a detailed, in-depth analysis of the proposed location or locations in the target area. The company will analyze the potential for customers. The WaveMAX franchise fee is $49,950 and youll need $200,000 in liquid capital. 7. Express Laundry Center The Express Laundry Center is also a franchise that focuses on time-saving wash and dry commercial equipment. There is no franchise fee for an Express Laundry Center, but you need $250,000 in liquid cash. 8. Martinizing The Martinizing franchise is most aimed at providing dry cleaning services but also offers laundry services, including wash, dry and fold. Another service is bulk laundry, such as business uniforms. The franchise fee is $69,500 and youll need $420,000 in liquid cash. See Also: How to Open Your Own Paint and Sip Studio 9. Statewide Statewide is a franchise thats available in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. The Statewide franchise is a supplier of Speed Queen equipment and focuses on the development and construction of new facilities, as well as the refurbishing of existing laundromats. Your amount of liquid cash determines how much equipment you can buy. 10. Laundrylux Like Statewide, Laundrylux focuses on helping existing laundromats upgrade equipment to its line, called Wascomat. Laundrylux focuses on setting up in commercial buildings. The Wascomat line includes App-based and cashless payment systems. Comparing Laundromat Franchise Opportunities: What to Consider If you want to run the best laundromat franchise, location is probably the top priority. You must have a location thats convenient to customers, even if youre going to offer pickup and delivery. Of course, you want to be a good distance from any competitor. The Future of the Laundry Industry: Trends to Watch One of the trends is in the mindset of the customer, who opts for an eco-friendly service that uses less water and energy. The customer also wants to be able to either multi-task or relax, so WIFI and television are the norms. FAQs: Laundromat Franchise What is the average startup cost for a laundromat franchise? The average start-up cost for laundromat franchises is $200,000 to $300,000, including a franchise fee and cost of equipment. Are laundromat businesses profitable? Yes. The Return on Investment is 20-35%, and some franchises report earnings of $10,000 or more per month. How does an eco laundry company differ from a traditional laundromat franchise? An eco-friendly laundry focuses on using less water and energy and may use alternative energy sources. For example, Eco Laundry uses wind energy. What are the key factors in a successful laundromat business model? Location, including proximity to customers. How is the laundry industry expected to evolve in the coming years? The successful business model will adapt to customer needs, which may include more add-on services such as wash, dry and fold, as well as pickup and delivery. Is laundromat a good side business? Yes. Once the start-up has been completed, the owner will focus on maintenance and utilities. The business can be run as a sole proprietor or with a minimal number of employees. Can a laundromat make you a millionaire? Yes. According to statistics, a modern laundromat can net $10,000 a month. Some make much more than that! How can I make my laundry business stand out in a competitive market? You can make sure your facility is clean and comfortable. In addition, you can offer services such as washing, drying and folding, and pickup/delivery. A skilled sales representative is crucial in driving revenue and building strong customer relationships in a small business. This article explores a sales representatives sales rep job description in the context of small businesses, outlining the duties, skills, and strategies required to excel in this position. Sales Representative Duties and Responsibilities As a sales representative in a small business, your primary responsibilities revolve around driving sales efforts and achieving business goals. Lets delve into the core duties that define your role: Customer Acquisition and Relationship Building Your main objective is to acquire new customers by identifying and targeting potential prospects. This involves prospecting, generating leads, and conducting effective sales presentations to showcase the companys products or services. Building and nurturing relationships with existing customers is crucial for upselling, cross-selling, and fostering customer loyalty. Sales Process Management You are responsible for managing the sales process from start to finish. This includes qualifying leads, conducting needs assessments, providing product knowledge, addressing customer concerns, and closing deals. Maintaining accurate and updated sales records, utilizing CRM software, and tracking sales performance are essential for an effective sales management process. Territory Management and Market Research In a small business, you may be assigned a specific territory or market segment to focus on. Its your responsibility to identify potential sales outlets, assess market trends and competition, and tailor your sales strategies accordingly. Conducting market research and competitive analysis will help you identify new opportunities and stay ahead in the market. Customer Service and Retention Excellent customer service is essential for maintaining strong working relationships as a sales representative. You should be responsive to customer inquiries, address complaints promptly and professionally, and ensure customer satisfaction. Building trust and delivering value to customers will contribute to their retention and continued business with the company. Sales Goal Achievement Meeting or exceeding sales targets and goals is a primary objective in your role as a sales representative. This requires a proactive approach to prospecting, consistent follow-up with leads, and effective negotiation skills to close deals. By consistently achieving sales goals, you contribute to the overall success and growth of the business. Skills and Qualifications Certain skills and qualifications are essential to excel as a sales representative in a small business. Here are some key attributes: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey product information, negotiate with customers, and build relationships. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to connect with diverse customers and prospects. A bachelors degree in business administration or a related field can provide a solid foundation in sales techniques and strategies. Proven sales experience, demonstrating a track record of achieving targets and driving revenue growth. Time management and organizational skills to prioritize sales activities, meet deadlines, and manage a sales pipeline effectively. Familiarity with CRM software and other sales tools to track leads, manage customer relationships, and analyze sales performanc Sales Representative Job Description: Templates for Hiring at Your Business Sales Representative Job Description Template 1: Position: Sales Representative Location: [City, State] Company: [Company Name] About Us: [Company Name] is a small business dedicated to providing exceptional [product or service] to our customers. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality solutions and building strong relationships with our clients. We are currently seeking a motivated and results-driven Sales Representative to join our team. Job Description: As a Sales Representative at [Company Name], you will play a crucial role in driving sales and revenue growth. Your responsibilities will include prospecting and qualifying leads, delivering product presentations, closing sales, and maintaining strong customer relationships. Responsibilities: Prospect and generate leads through various channels, such as cold calling, networking, and referrals. Qualify leads and conduct needs assessments to understand customer requirements. Deliver compelling product presentations and demonstrations to potential customers. Negotiate and close sales, achieving or exceeding sales targets. Provide excellent customer service and maintain strong relationships with existing clients. Continuously update and maintain accurate sales records and customer information in the CRM system. Stay up to date with industry trends, market conditions, and competitive landscape. Collaborate with the sales team and management to develop effective sales strategies and achieve company objectives. Qualifications: Previous experience in sales or a related field, preferably in [industry or market]. Proven track record of achieving or exceeding sales targets. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent presentation and negotiation abilities. Self-motivated and results-driven with a strong work ethic. Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with customers. Proficiency in using CRM software and other sales tools. Good organizational and time management skills. Benefits: Competitive base salary plus commission structure based on sales performance. Opportunities for career growth and advancement. Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans. Ongoing training and professional development. Supportive and collaborative work environment. To Apply: Interested candidates should submit their resume, a brief cover letter, and any relevant certifications or references to [email address] with the subject line Sales Representative Application [Your Name]. We appreciate all applications, but only selected candidates will be contacted for an interview. [Company Name] is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in our workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees. Sales Representative Job Description Template 2: Position: Sales Representative Location: [City, State] Company: [Company Name] About Us: [Company Name] is a small business specializing in [product or service]. We are dedicated to providing our customers with high-quality solutions that meet their needs and exceed their expectations. As we continue to expand, we are seeking a motivated and customer-oriented Sales Representative to join our team. Job Description: As a Sales Representative at [Company Name], you will be responsible for driving sales and building relationships with customers. Your role will involve prospecting and qualifying leads, presenting our products to potential clients, and closing sales to achieve revenue targets. Responsibilities: Identify and prospect potential customers through various channels, including cold calling, networking, and referrals. Qualify leads and understand customer needs to offer suitable product solutions. Deliver persuasive sales presentations and demonstrations to showcase the features and benefits of our products. Negotiate and close sales, ensuring customer satisfaction and achieving sales targets. Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and new customers. Collaborate with the sales team and management to develop and implement effective sales strategies. Stay informed about industry trends, market conditions, and competitor activities. Keep accurate records of sales activities, customer interactions, and sales pipeline in CRM system. Qualifications: Previous experience in sales or a related field, preferably in [industry or market]. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent negotiation and persuasive abilities. Self-motivated with a results-driven mindset. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Good organizational and time management skills. Proficiency in using CRM software and other sales tools. Positive attitude and willingness to learn. Benefits: Competitive base salary plus commission based on sales performance. Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans. Ongoing sales training and development. Supportive and collaborative work environment. To Apply: Interested candidates should submit their resume, a brief cover letter, and any relevant certifications or references to [email address] with the subject line Sales Representative Application [Your Name]. We appreciate all applications, but only selected candidates will be contacted for an interview. [Company Name] is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in our workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees. Sales Representative Job Description Template 3: Position: Sales Representative Location: [City, State] Company: [Company Name] About Us: [Company Name] is a small business dedicated to providing top-quality [product or service] to our customers. We pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. We are currently seeking a dynamic and self-motivated Sales Representative to join our team and contribute to our continued growth. Job Description: As a Sales Representative at [Company Name], you will be responsible for driving sales revenue through proactive prospecting, client relationship management, and effective sales strategies. Your role will involve identifying potential customers, presenting our products or services, and closing sales to achieve targets. Responsibilities: Conduct market research and identify potential customers through various channels. Reach out to prospects through cold calling, email campaigns, networking events, and referrals. Deliver persuasive product presentations and demonstrations to potential clients. Understand customer needs and tailor solutions to meet their requirements. Build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing customers. Negotiate and close sales, ensuring customer satisfaction and achieving sales targets. Collaborate with the sales team and management to develop and implement effective sales strategies. Keep accurate records of sales activities, customer interactions, and sales pipeline in CRM system. Stay updated on industry trends, competitor activities, and market conditions. Qualifications: Previous experience in sales or a related field, preferably in [industry or market]. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent presentation and negotiation abilities. Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets. Self-motivated with a results-oriented mindset. Good organizational and time management skills. Proficiency in using CRM software and other sales tools. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Benefits: Competitive base salary plus commission structure based on sales performance. Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans. Ongoing sales training and development. Supportive and collaborative work environment. To Apply: Interested candidates should submit their resume, a brief cover letter, and any relevant certifications or references to [email address] with the subject line Sales Representative Application [Your Name]. We appreciate all applications, but only selected candidates will be contacted for an interview. [Company Name] is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in our workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees. Sales Representative Job Description Template 4: Position: Sales Representative Job Location: [City, State] Company: [Company Name] About Us: [Company Name] is a small business specializing in [product or service]. We are passionate about delivering exceptional solutions and building lasting relationships with our customers. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a highly motivated and results-oriented Sales Representative to join our team. Job Description: As a Sales Representative at [Company Name], you will be responsible for driving sales growth and expanding our customer base. Your role will involve prospecting potential clients, presenting our products or services, and closing deals to achieve sales targets. Responsibilities: Identify and target potential customers through various lead-generation methods. Conduct cold calls, email campaigns, and networking to establish contact with prospects. Deliver compelling product presentations and demonstrations to showcase the benefits and features of our offerings. Understand customer needs and provide tailored solutions to meet their requirements. Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, ensuring customer satisfaction. Negotiate and close sales deals, achieving or exceeding sales targets. Collaborate with the sales team and management to develop sales strategies and marketing campaigns. Keep accurate and up-to-date records of sales activities and customer interactions. Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and market conditions. Qualifications: Previous experience in sales or a related field, preferably in [industry or market]. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent negotiation and closing abilities. Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets. Self-motivated with a results-driven mindset. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Good organizational and time management skills. Proficiency in using CRM software and other sales tools. Benefits: Competitive base salary plus commission based on sales performance. Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement. Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans. Ongoing sales training and development. Supportive and collaborative work environment. To Apply: Interested candidates should submit their resume, a brief cover letter, and any relevant certifications or references to [email address] with the subject line Sales Representative Application [Your Name]. We appreciate all applications, but only selected candidates will be contacted for an interview. [Company Name] is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity in our workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees. Frequently Asked Questions What is the role of a sales representative in a small business? Sales reps in small businesses play a key role in driving revenue by acquiring new customers, building relationships, managing the sales process, and achieving sales goals. What are the primary responsibilities of a sales representative in small businesses? Primary responsibilities of a sales representative in small businesses include customer acquisition and relationship building, sales process management, territory management and market research, customer service and retention, and achieving sales goals. What skills are important for a sales representative in a small business? Important skills for a sales rep in a small business include excellent communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, a bachelors degree in business administration or a related field, proven sales experience, time management and organizational skills, and familiarity with CRM software and sales tools. How does a sales representative acquire new customers in small businesses? Sales reps in small businesses acquire new customers through prospecting, generating leads, conducting effective sales presentations, and targeting potential prospects with the companys products or services. What is the role of a sales representative in managing the sales process? Sales representatives are responsible for managing the sales process from start to finish, including lead qualification, needs assessment, providing product knowledge, addressing customer concerns, and closing deals. Utilizing CRM software and tracking sales performance are crucial for effective sales process management. How does a sales representative contribute to customer service and retention in small businesses? Sales representatives contribute to customer service and retention by providing excellent customer service, addressing inquiries and complaints promptly, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Building trust and delivering value to customers foster long-term relationships and loyalty. What are the key goals of a sales representative in small businesses? The key goals of a sales rep in small businesses include meeting or exceeding sales targets, driving revenue growth, acquiring new customers, building strong working relationships, and contributing to the overall success and growth of the business. What qualifications are required to be a successful sales representative in a small business? Qualifications for a successful sales representative in a small business include excellent communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, a bachelors degree in business administration or a related field, proven sales experience, time management and organizational skills, and familiarity with CRM software and sales tools. How does a sales representative manage their time and prioritize sales activities in a small business? Sales representatives manage their time and prioritize sales activities by effectively utilizing time management and organizational skills, setting priorities based on sales goals and targets, and leveraging CRM software and sales tools to track leads and manage customer relationships. How does a sales representative contribute to the growth and profitability of a small business? Sales representatives contribute to the growth and profitability of a small business by acquiring new customers, driving revenue through effective sales techniques, building strong relationships, managing the sales process efficiently, and achieving sales goals and targets. Conclusion Sales reps play a vital role in driving sales success for small businesses. By acquiring new customers, building relationships, managing the sales process, and achieving sales goals, you contribute to the growth and profitability of the company. You can excel as a sales representative in a small business environment with effective communication, interpersonal skills, and a strategic approach. Starting a shrimp farm can be rewarding for those interested in aquaculture. With the increasing demand for shrimp globally, establishing a successful farm requires careful planning and implementation. In this article, well explore how to start a business in shrimp farming. Lets dive in! What is a shrimp farm? A shrimp farm, also known as shrimp aquaculture, refers to shrimp cultivation in controlled environments. It involves the breeding and rearing of shrimp species, such as the Pacific white shrimp, in specially designed ponds or tanks. Responsible shrimp farming practices aim to ensure sustainable production, focusing on factors like water quality, disease prevention, and ecological impact. Shrimp farms play a significant role in meeting the global demand for shrimp. The Shrimp Farming Industry in 2023 The global shrimp farming industry is set for substantial growth, with the market expected to reach $69.35 billion by 2028. Demand for frozen shrimp, driven by its popularity in the food, pharmaceutical, healthcare, and cosmetic sectors, contributes to the industrys prospects. However, shrimp production poses environmental risks, as the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) notes. Why You Should Consider Becoming a Shrimp Farmer Becoming a shrimp farmer could be a viable option if youre seeking a rewarding and profitable venture. Here are five compelling reasons to consider starting a shrimp seafood farming business: High demand: The global appetite for shrimp is growing steadily, providing a lucrative market for shrimp farmers. The global appetite for shrimp is growing steadily, providing a lucrative market for shrimp farmers. Sustainable practice: Shrimp farming can be conducted using responsible and sustainable methods, minimizing environmental impact. Shrimp farming can be conducted using responsible and sustainable methods, minimizing environmental impact. Profit potential: Shrimp farming has the potential for significant profits due to high market prices and efficient production techniques. Shrimp farming has the potential for significant profits due to high market prices and efficient production techniques. Versatile market: Shrimp is a versatile product with a wide range of uses, catering to various industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Shrimp is a versatile product with a wide range of uses, catering to various industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Ease of entry: With proper planning and guidance, starting a shrimp farm can be relatively straightforward, making it accessible for aspiring entrepreneurs. U.S. Shrimp Species When it comes to shrimp species, the United States boasts a diverse range found naturally or farmed. Here are some prominent shrimp species in the U.S., each with distinct characteristics and considerations for farming: Marine Shrimp: Commonly known as white shrimp or pink shrimp, this species is abundant in coastal regions, known for its delicate flavor and versatile culinary applications. Commonly known as white shrimp or pink shrimp, this species is abundant in coastal regions, known for its delicate flavor and versatile culinary applications. Giant Tiger Prawn: Also called black tiger shrimp, these large, impressive creatures are native to Asian waters but are now farmed in the U.S. Known for their size and distinctive tiger-like stripes, they offer a sweet and succulent taste. Also called black tiger shrimp, these large, impressive creatures are native to Asian waters but are now farmed in the U.S. Known for their size and distinctive tiger-like stripes, they offer a sweet and succulent taste. Freshwater Prawns: Native to freshwater habitats, these prawns are larger than typical shrimp. With a firm texture and slightly sweet taste, theyre popular for their versatility in various dishes. Native to freshwater habitats, these prawns are larger than typical shrimp. With a firm texture and slightly sweet taste, theyre popular for their versatility in various dishes. Blue Shrimp: Native to the Gulf of Mexico, blue shrimp display vibrant blue coloration and a mild, slightly sweet flavor, making them a sought-after delicacy. Native to the Gulf of Mexico, blue shrimp display vibrant blue coloration and a mild, slightly sweet flavor, making them a sought-after delicacy. Brown Shrimp: Found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, brown shrimp have a robust flavor and firm texture, making them ideal for various cooking methods. Found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, brown shrimp have a robust flavor and firm texture, making them ideal for various cooking methods. Pink Shrimp: Residing primarily in the Gulf of Mexico, pink shrimp boast a delicate flavor and tender texture, often favored for their versatility in recipes. Residing primarily in the Gulf of Mexico, pink shrimp boast a delicate flavor and tender texture, often favored for their versatility in recipes. Rock Shrimp: With a rock-hard shell, rock shrimp are prized for their sweet taste and firm, lobster-like meat, commonly harvested off the southeastern coast of the U.S. With a rock-hard shell, rock shrimp are prized for their sweet taste and firm, lobster-like meat, commonly harvested off the southeastern coast of the U.S. Spot Prawn: Native to the Pacific Northwest, spot prawns offer a subtly sweet flavor, firm texture, and a distinctive white spot on their tail, hence their name. Native to the Pacific Northwest, spot prawns offer a subtly sweet flavor, firm texture, and a distinctive white spot on their tail, hence their name. Royal Red Shrimp: Deep-sea dwellers found off the coast of the southeastern U.S., royal red shrimp have a unique taste, described as sweet, succulent, and comparable to lobster. Deep-sea dwellers found off the coast of the southeastern U.S., royal red shrimp have a unique taste, described as sweet, succulent, and comparable to lobster. White Shrimp: Widely distributed along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, white shrimp have a mild, slightly sweet flavor, making them a popular choice for various dishes. Shrimp Production Methods When it comes to shrimp production, various methods are employed to meet the growing demand for this popular seafood. Each shrimp production method has its own advantages and considerations, influencing factors such as production scale, environmental sustainability, and water management practices. Here are some of the main shrimp production methods used in the US: Pond Culture: The most common method, shrimp are grown in large ponds, utilizing natural or controlled environments to support their growth and reproduction. The most common method, shrimp are grown in large ponds, utilizing natural or controlled environments to support their growth and reproduction. Raceway Systems: Shrimp are raised in narrow, flowing channels called raceways, allowing for controlled water flow and efficient waste removal. Shrimp are raised in narrow, flowing channels called raceways, allowing for controlled water flow and efficient waste removal. Biofloc Technology: This method promotes the growth of beneficial microorganisms in shrimp ponds, creating a biofloc system that helps maintain water quality and provides supplemental nutrition. This method promotes the growth of beneficial microorganisms in shrimp ponds, creating a biofloc system that helps maintain water quality and provides supplemental nutrition. Recirculating Aquaculture Systems: Shrimp are raised in closed-loop systems, where water is continuously filtered and recirculated, optimizing water usage and minimizing environmental impact. Shrimp are raised in closed-loop systems, where water is continuously filtered and recirculated, optimizing water usage and minimizing environmental impact. Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture: This method combines shrimp farming with other species, such as fish or algae, creating a symbiotic ecosystem where waste from one species is used as nutrients by others. Choosing a Shrimp Farm Location When choosing a shrimp farm location, several factors should be considered. First and foremost, water quality plays a vital role in fish farms, as shrimp require clean and well-oxygenated water to thrive. Proximity to markets is also important for efficient distribution and reduced transportation costs. The availability of suitable land and access to necessary infrastructure, such as electricity and freshwater sources, must be assessed. Climate conditions, including temperature and rainfall patterns, should also be taken into account to ensure optimal growth and disease prevention. Essential Shrimp Farm Equipment To establish a successful shrimp farm, specific equipment is essential. Lets explore the necessary tools and machinery vital for shrimp farming operations, covering pond management, water quality control, and shrimp handling. See Also: How to Start an Alligator Farm Pond Aeration System: A reliable aeration system is crucial to maintain proper oxygen levels in shrimp ponds, promoting healthy growth, and minimizing the risk of diseases. A reliable aeration system is crucial to maintain proper oxygen levels in shrimp ponds, promoting healthy growth, and minimizing the risk of diseases. Water Pump: An efficient water pump ensures optimal circulation, maintaining water quality and facilitating the removal of waste materials from the ponds. An efficient water pump ensures optimal circulation, maintaining water quality and facilitating the removal of waste materials from the ponds. Shrimp Net: A specialized net designed for capturing and handling shrimp enables efficient harvest and transfer of shrimp between ponds or containers. A specialized net designed for capturing and handling shrimp enables efficient harvest and transfer of shrimp between ponds or containers. Water Testing Kit: Regular water testing using a comprehensive kit allows farmers to monitor and adjust crucial water parameters, ensuring an ideal environment for shrimp growth. Regular water testing using a comprehensive kit allows farmers to monitor and adjust crucial water parameters, ensuring an ideal environment for shrimp growth. Feeding Equipment: Automatic feeders or feeding trays are essential for the accurate and timely distribution of shrimp feed, optimizing nutrition intake, and reducing wastage. Automatic feeders or feeding trays are essential for the accurate and timely distribution of shrimp feed, optimizing nutrition intake, and reducing wastage. Shrimp Grading Tools: Tools such as grading sieves or trays are employed to separate shrimp based on size, ensuring uniformity in growth and facilitating market grading. Tools such as grading sieves or trays are employed to separate shrimp based on size, ensuring uniformity in growth and facilitating market grading. Water Filtration System: A reliable filtration system helps to remove impurities, sediment, and excessive nutrients from the water, maintaining favorable water conditions for shrimp. A reliable filtration system helps to remove impurities, sediment, and excessive nutrients from the water, maintaining favorable water conditions for shrimp. Shrimp Tanks or Ponds: The primary infrastructure for shrimp farming, tanks or ponds provide a suitable habitat for shrimp, allowing them to grow and reproduce under controlled conditions. The primary infrastructure for shrimp farming, tanks or ponds provide a suitable habitat for shrimp, allowing them to grow and reproduce under controlled conditions. Water Heating or Cooling System: Depending on the geographical location and climate, a heating or cooling system may be necessary to maintain optimal water temperature for shrimp growth. Depending on the geographical location and climate, a heating or cooling system may be necessary to maintain optimal water temperature for shrimp growth. Shrimp Disease Prevention Tools: These include disinfection products, probiotics, and medications that assist in preventing and controlling common shrimp diseases, ensuring healthier stocks. How to Start an Indoor Shrimp Farming Business in 6 Simple Steps Embark on your journey to establish an indoor shrimp farming business with these six straightforward steps. From setting up the infrastructure to managing water quality, follow these guidelines for a successful venture. Dive into the details on how to start a farm with shrimp below: 1. Determine Your Business Plan Formulate a comprehensive farm business plan outlining your goals, target market, and financial projections. Assess feasibility and market demand to ensure a solid indoor shrimp farming venture foundation. 2. Set Up the Ideal Infrastructure Create a suitable environment for shrimp farming, including tanks or ponds, filtration systems, and temperature control. Ensure optimal conditions for growth and reproduction while maintaining a sustainable and efficient operation. 3. Select the Right Shrimp Species Choose the appropriate shrimp species based on market demand, compatibility with your infrastructure, and your farming objectives. Consider factors such as growth rate, disease resistance, and market value. 4. Acquire Healthy Shrimp Stock Source healthy shrimp postlarvae from reputable hatcheries. Ensure proper transportation, acclimation, and quarantine procedures to prevent diseases and maintain the quality of your shrimp stock. 5. Implement Feeding and Management Protocols Establish a feeding schedule and provide balanced nutrition for your shrimp. Monitor water quality parameters regularly, manage disease prevention measures, and implement best practices for optimal growth and health. 6. Harvest and Market Your Shrimp Plan and execute a systematic harvesting process, ensuring the shrimp reach the desired marketable size. Develop marketing strategies to promote your sustainably farmed shrimp and secure profitable sales channels. FAQs How much does it cost to start a shrimp farm business? The initial investment required to establish a shrimp farm business can vary significantly, typically ranging from $10,000 to $200,000, influenced by factors such as the scale and extent of production. How long does it take to grow farmed shrimp? The growth timeline of farmed shrimp depends on various factors, such as species, water temperature, feeding practices, and desired size at harvest. Generally, it takes around 4 to 6 months for shrimp to reach marketable sizes, but this can vary. Where are the best places in the U.S. for shrimp farms? The Gulf Coast region is popular for shrimp farming. Specifically, the best states to start a farm with shrimp include Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, is known for its favorable climate and abundant water resources, making it ideal for shrimp farming. Other potential regions include parts of Florida, South Carolina, and Hawaii. How much money do shrimp farmers make? Shrimp farm owners can earn annual salaries ranging from $35,000 to well over $150,000, with the amount dependent on the size and scale of their operation. Some shrimp farms even invest in additional revenue streams. For example, you may look into how to start catfish farming to add even more profitability. Is shrimp farming a profitable business? Shrimp farming proves to be a lucrative business, offering significant profitability. With meticulous management and streamlined operations, youll unlock tremendous financial gains and pave the way for long-term success in this lucrative industry. In todays fast-paced and ever-changing business world, Zoho Invoice streamlines financial operations for small businesses around the world. This powerful tool shapes efficient invoicing for businesses of all sizes thanks to the softwares robust capabilities, measurable benefits, unique features and consistent updates that ensure Zoho Invoice continues to offer users a highly competitive product that is 100% free. What is Zoho Invoice? Zoho Invoice is a dynamic online invoicing software specifically designed to meet the needs of small business owners and freelancers. It provides a robust set of tools aimed at simplifying the invoicing process, from creating customized invoices to managing client payments. With Zoho Invoice, businesses gain a seamless, intuitive platform that enhances financial operations, ensuring timely payments and comprehensive income and expense tracking. The softwares automation capabilities also reduce the burden of administrative tasks, freeing business owners to focus on strategic activities and business growth. Zohos 100% free invoicing software has been on the market for 15-plus years, and weve been able to survive and become the leading invoicing solution because of the trust and support our customers have extended to us over the years, says Zoho product marketing associate Surbhi Nahata. So, in early 2021 we decided to give back to the small business community, and hence the app was made completely completely free. Challenges Faced by Small Businesses in 2023 Navigating 2023, small businesses grapple with numerous challenges that can stifle growth and profitability. In an era of increasing economic uncertainty and rapidly changing market dynamics, entrepreneurs seek innovative solutions to these problems, including: Invoice customization Tailoring invoices to match the unique needs and branding of a business can be daunting. Zoho Invoice simplifies this task, providing customizable templates to create professional invoices. Income and expense tracking Without a clear overview of income and expenses, businesses may falter. Zoho Invoice offers comprehensive tracking, ensuring a clear financial picture at all times. Timely payment collection The delay in payments is detrimental to cash flow. Zoho Invoice helps manage and expedite the payment process, ensuring businesses maintain healthy cash reserves. Time-consuming admin tasks Routine administrative tasks can consume considerable resources. Zoho Invoice automates various processes, freeing up valuable time for other business-critical tasks. Tax compliance Complying with evolving tax regulations can be challenging. Zoho Invoice provides assistance with tax calculations and filing, easing the compliance burden. The Zoho Invoice Journey by the Numbers Zoho Invoice has made significant strides since its inception 15 years ago, bolstering its reputation as a leading invoicing solution for small businesses and freelancers. The numbers bear testament to Zohos unwavering commitment to simplifying business finance management globally. More than 15 years domain experience With more than a decade of experience, Zoho Invoice has consistently improved, refining its software to provide users with the best invoicing solution. 14 international editions and counting Zoho Invoices international editions cater to specific regional needs, reflecting its dedication to global business communities. Serving more than 160 countries Zoho Invoices wide-reaching service spans across more than 160 countries, demonstrating its international appeal and the trust businesses place in the platform. Privacy focused As a company, Zoho prioritizes user privacy, ensuring that data security is at the forefront of its software development processes. 100% free The commitment to empowering small businesses is reflected in its pricing model. Zoho Invoice offers a comprehensive free plan, providing access to quality invoicing software for all. Integrated ecosystem Zoho Invoice is a part of the broader Zoho ecosystem, allowing users to seamlessly integrate with other Zoho products, enhancing operational efficiency and data synchronization. Zoho Invoice Capabilities Zoho Invoice brings a spectrum of capabilities to the table, meticulously designed to streamline and optimize the invoicing process. Its diverse functionalities range from end-to-end invoicing and advanced reporting and analytics to streamlined payment collection and multi-user operations. Zoho Invoice boasts extensive customization options, making it easy to tailor the software to specific business needs, and it incorporates robust tax compliance features to navigate complex regulatory landscapes. These varied capabilities work in harmony to create an invoicing solution that aligns with the distinct requirements of small businesses and freelancers worldwide. End-to-end Invoicing Zoho Invoice delivers a comprehensive end-to-end invoicing solution, addressing every aspect of the invoicing process. Users easily can generate and dispatch professional invoices, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. The softwares project management feature allows for the creation and oversight of projects, coupled with precise time tracking for accurate billing. Likewise, the invoicing tool simplifies the quote-to-cash process, contributing to significant time savings and enhancing cash flow. Another standout feature is Zoho Invoices customization functionality. Zoho Invoice users can adjust every element of their invoices, right from templates, empowering businesses to design invoices that reflect their brand and meet specific requirements. Payment Collection In the realm of payment collection, Zoho Invoice offers a slew of functionalities designed to ensure smooth, timely transactions. The free online software supports both online and offline payments, catering to a variety of client preferences. The software also allows businesses to accept partial payments, providing greater flexibility and cash flow management. Automatic payment reminders can be configured with Zoho Invoice, saving businesses time and effort otherwise spent manually chasing payments. Zoho Invoice also integrates seamlessly with payment services like PayPal, Stripe and Forte, thereby expanding the payment options available to clients and facilitating quicker settlements. Expense Tracking Zoho Invoice excels in the area of expense tracking, equipped with functionalities aimed at accurate and efficient expense management. The software offers the ability to convert billable expenses into invoices at the click of a button, thus simplifying the billing process. Zoho Invoices tracking feature allows for precise expense monitoring based on GPS and mileage, ensuring every cost is accounted for. Zoho Invoice also includes an auto-scan feature for expense receipts, reducing manual input and saving valuable time. Further, Zoho Invoice allows for the automation of recurring expenses, providing for hassle-free management of regular expenditures. Collaboration Zoho Invoice promotes effective collaboration with its robust client portal. This feature facilitates real-time interaction with clients, allowing them to view, edit and update their payment methods directly through the portal. By empowering clients to perform various actions within the portal, Zoho Invoice simplifies the process, enhancing client experience and payment efficiency. The software also offers real-time notifications, informing businesses when clients have viewed or settled an invoice, thus keeping them up-to-date with the payment status. This combination of functionalities fosters enhanced transparency and client engagement, crucial elements for successful business relationships. Reporting and Analytics Zoho Invoice integrates advanced reporting and analytics capabilities, transforming raw data into valuable business insights. Its features allow for easy analysis of business performance, facilitating informed decision-making. Users can glean insights into key financial metrics, providing a clear view of the companys financial health. This knowledge and understanding contributes to strategic planning and effective resource allocation, driving business growth and profitability. A few of the key financial metrics that can be extracted from Zoho Invoices reporting and analytics feature include: Top performing customers Most productive sales team member Profitability of each project Customers preferred payment methods Areas of high expenditure Mobile App Zoho Invoice extends its comprehensive invoicing solution to the mobile sphere, with a native app available for iOS and Android devices. The app ensures that business owners have access to their financial operations anytime, anywhere. The app consistently earns recognition, and the U.S. edition of the Zoho Invoice Android app even has clinched the PCMag Editors Choice award, a testament to its quality and functionality. The Zoho Invoice mobile app offers users a wide range of features, including: Estimates Retainer invoices Invoices Recurring invoices Credit notes Projects Expenses Tax summaries Scalability and Compliance With a commitment to accommodating the needs of diverse business models, Zoho Invoice offers scalability and compliance features designed to support growth and navigate complex regulatory environments. Its 14 country-specific editions cater to unique regional requirements, while automated tax handling simplifies tax calculations for businesses involved in cross-border selling. Zoho Invoice places a high priority on privacy and security, ensuring user data remains protected at all times. Plus, the software supports end-to-end compliance, enabling businesses to meet various regulatory standards effortlessly. These capabilities demonstrate Zoho Invoices dedication to fostering a secure, compliant and scalable environment for businesses worldwide. Contextual Integrations Zoho Invoice seamlessly integrates with the broader Zoho ecosystem, creating a unified platform for businesses to manage various operational facets. These integrations offer synergistic benefits, enhancing operational efficiency and data synchronization. The following are some key Zoho Invoice integrations within the Zoho suite: Zoho Subscriptions Zoho Inventory Zoho Expense Zoho Projects Zoho Analytics Zoho Sign Zoho CRM Zoho Invoice also supports a variety of third-party integrations, extending its functionality to a wider range of services. These integrations broaden the softwares capabilities, providing businesses with the flexibility to connect with preferred platforms and services. The result is an interoperable invoicing solution that caters to diverse business needs. Some of the key third-party integrations with Zoho Invoice include: Forte Fundbox PayPal Office 365 Razorpay Slack Stripe Google Workspace Zoho Invoice Updates Zoho Invoice continually evolves to stay abreast of changing business requirements, reflected in its recent updates. Among the new functionalities is the ability to add users to projects in bulk, a feature that streamlines project management. Enhancements to the customer portal now allow clients to display credit notes and pay invoices in bulk, adding a layer of convenience to the payment process. Likewise, in its commitment to catering to global business needs, Zoho Invoice has launched two new editions specifically for Kenya and Mexico. Advanced customization of templates has also been introduced, providing businesses with even more flexibility to tailor invoices to their specific needs. We can never undermine the rule that customization is one of the most important requirements for any invoice, says Nahata. With this recent update, you can add background images or even a background color. You can also enhance the styling of the text field to display on your invoices, and you can display additional information such as content at the top of your invoice, headers or additional signatures, Nahata continues. As part of the advanced customization update we have also redesigned the color themes so you can select from the four accent colors that we have and set a custom theme of your own. People fear supporting Ukraine means provoking Russia. In Slovakia, the support for NATO and EU is dropping. (Source: SME - Jozef Jakubco) Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled If a referendum on NATO membership were to be held in the near future, only 58 percent of Slovaks would vote to remain. At the same time, support for NATO membership increased in almost all countries at the EU's eastern border after the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Over the past year, Slovakia has also become much more Eurosceptic, trust in its army has dropped significantly, and Slovaks view the aid provided to Ukraine as a provocation of Russia. This follows from the latest Globsec Trends 2023 survey carried out by the security think tank Globsec, on a sample of 8,000 people in eight states at the EU's eastern border. Few other countries have seen such a significant decline in pro-Western sentiments as in Slovakia. "The results of the survey show a deepening of the differences between more and less resilient countries. And the least resistant to manipulation and pro-Russian narratives are Bulgaria, Hungary and Slovakia," says the director of Globsec's Centre for Democracy and Resilience, Dominika Hajdu. This is also evidenced by the fact that more and more Slovaks blame the West for the war in Ukraine and see the US as a threat. Questions the survey seeks to answer What is the support for EU and NATO membership? Why do we see the US as a threat? Who do the states blame for the war in Ukraine? How many people trust Putin and how many trust Zelensky? Who refuses to help refugees and are arms deliveries a provocation? Who trusts the government and the media? Less EU and less NATO Up to 86 percent of Romanians wish to remain in the European Union, support for membership even increasing by more than 10 percentage points over the last year. While Romania is the most pro-European of the surveyed countries, Slovakia found itself on the opposite side of the scale, with 64 percent of Slovaks saying that they would vote to remain in the Union in a possible referendum. Globsec found a significant drop in support for Slovakia's membership by 13 percentage points. The fact that Slovakia is among the most Eurosceptic nations in the EU was also confirmed by the Eurobarometer survey in autumn last year. At that time, only 44 percent of Slovaks considered membership in the EU a good thing, 47 percent of Slovaks describing membership as neither good nor bad. Many are said to continue not using the new ePN service. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled General practitioners, gynaecologists, hospitals and spas are obliged to issue a sick leave certificate electronically from June 1 instead of paper form. Until now it has been optional to issue these electronic certificates. In justified cases, a sick leave certificate may still be printed, the National Health Information Centre has said. However, more than 98 percent of doctors offices and hospitals have access to the IT system that enables the issuing of these electronic certificates, known as the ePN service in Slovak. This means a hand-written certificate should no longer be a common occurrence. A doctor may be fined up to 3,300 by the Health Ministry for violating the new rule, the centre added. The ministry has said that it does not want to impose any penalties on doctors. Instead, it plans to motivate those doctors unwilling to issue ePN certificates. The ministry did not explain how. The Society of General Practitioners has confirmed to the TASR news agency that many doctors will not switch to the ePN service after June 1, and the situation will not thus change. Some will issue the certificates in their printed form, others will do so using the electronic service, the society noted. The ePN service was launched a year ago, and more than 370,000 electronic sick notes have been issued since then. Specialists are expected to join the service in 2024. Police from Roma abuse case to face court again, Germany pulling its Patriot, and an interview with a Nobel Prize winner. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Good evening. Here is the Wednesday, May 31 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes. Significant decline in pro-western sentiment Slovakia is becoming more Eurosceptic. (Source: Jakub Kotian) The new Globsec Trends 2023 survey suggests that Russian propaganda seems to work on Slovaks. "Respondents belief that Russia was responsible for the war in Ukraine stood at only 40%, with most falling prey to disinformation narratives, blaming Ukraine or the West," write its authors. In comparison, support for NATO membership increased in almost all countries at the EU's eastern border. Few other countries have seen such a significant decline in pro-Western sentiment as in Slovakia. Find out more about the survey's results here. Read more about the topic: More stories from The Slovak Spectator website If you like what we are doing and want to support good journalism, buy our online subscription with no ads and a print copy of The Slovak Spectator sent to your home in Slovakia. Thank you. FEATURE STORY FOR WEDNESDAY There is a lot we do not know about life Emmanuelle Charpentier. (Source: SME - Marko Erd) For the announcement of next year's Starmus science and art festival in Slovakia which focuses on the challenges facing humanity and how to stop the destruction of the planet, Nobel prize laureate Emmanuelle Marie Charpentier sat down with The Slovak Spectator to talk about the microbial universe, the mistaken belief that humans are at the top of the food chain, and the potential for a bacterial, or fungal, pandemic. EVENT FOR TOMORROW Rap music for old people, supposedly video //www.youtube.com/embed/JwdrfIyjibk During the 2019 Pohoda music festival the well-known hip-hop band Modre Hory (Blue Mountains) premiered in an acoustic session. They liked the set up so much they recorded an acoustic album and now they are performing live. See them on Thursday at the Pink Whale on the Danube riverbank in Bratislava at 21:00 PM. Find out more about the event here (in Slovak). In other news Two pieces of anti-tank ammunition were found in Bratislava's Petrzalka borough on Wednesday morning. A bomb disposal expert was dispatched to Jantarova Street who then secured the ammunition and transported it to a temporary warehouse for its later disposal. A bomb disposal expert was dispatched to Jantarova Street who then secured the ammunition and transported it to a temporary warehouse for its later disposal. Slovak President Zuzana Caputova and French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted their two countries' strategic partnership at a meeting on Wednesday in Bratislava. Several memorandums of cooperation were signed by representatives of both states. For example, the strategic partnership action plan creates prerequisites for closer cooperation in economy, science, research, and education. at a meeting on Wednesday in Bratislava. Several memorandums of cooperation were signed by representatives of both states. For example, the strategic partnership action plan creates prerequisites for closer cooperation in economy, science, research, and education. On Wednesday, the online services of the Bratislava Municipality were targeted by a massive cyberattack , resulting in an outage of the parking system, website and others. According to Mayor Matus Vallo, an unnamed group was behind the attack and cited the ongoing Globsec security forum as a possible motive. The municipality IT infrastructure was not breached, but the website of the capitals public transport operator was unavailable at the time of writing. , resulting in an outage of the parking system, website and others. According to Mayor Matus Vallo, an unnamed group was behind the attack and cited the ongoing Globsec security forum as a possible motive. The municipality IT infrastructure was not breached, but the website of the capitals public transport operator was unavailable at the time of writing. Smer chair Robert Fico claimed on Wednesday that Slovak state officials and NGOs called the opposition a hybrid threat in Brussels and had asked the EU and NATO to intervene. Former defence minister Jaroslav Nad denied the allegations, saying that no one at NATO talked about any such intervention. He added that it was hybrid threat experts from a special group which Fico's government had created that visited Brussels and blamed him for creating confusion. The National Security Authority said its expert had participated in a meeting focused on battling misinformation and hybrid threats in Europe and would provide any relevant information. The Interior Ministry called Fico's claims "conspiracy intended to confuse voters". Police also refuted the claims, calling them misinformation. Strawberries picked on Wednesday near the village of Malanta, Nitra Region. You can visit the village and pick them yourself. There are several places where one can go self-picking strawberries especially in western Slovakia. (Source: TASR) WEATHER FOR THURSDAY: Generally few clouds, but occasionally heavier cloud cover. Light wind. Daily temperatures between 24 C and 29 C. (SHMU) Thank you for subscribing and reading. It means a lot to us. P.S. If you have suggestions on how our news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk. Follow The Slovak Spectator on Facebook, Instagram (@slovakspectator) and Twitter (@slovakspectator). Abuse case dates back to 2009. Six Roma boys were reportedly bullied by police officers in Kosice in March 2009 (Source: TASR) Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled The Slovak Constitutional Court has overturned the acquittal of ten police officers originally accused of bullying Roma boys at a police station in Kosice-South, eastern Slovakia in 2009. The court ruled that the rights of six boys were violated at the time and returned the case to the Kosice II District Court for further proceedings. Related article Related article Court again frees policemen charged with bullying Roma boys Read more In March 2009, six Roma boys aged between 10 and 16 were taken to a police station in Kosice in connection with the alleged robbery of an old woman. A video the police are said to have made on their phones showed the officers humiliating and ridiculing the boys, and forcing them to slap and undress each other, among other things. The police - nine men and one woman - were all charged with abuse of power and four were also accused of blackmail. In different court rulings over the years, the officers have been acquitted and had that acquittal confirmed. In 2019 a Kosice court lifted the charges against them, ruling that "it has not been proven that the crime, for which the defendants are being prosecuted, happened." A year later they were declared definitely not guilty of bullying the boys. Related article Related article Court ignores video in Roma abuse case Read more However, the Constitutional Court had now cancelled the acquittals. The complainants had previously filed a complaint with the European Court of Human Rights which also found their rights had been violated. Czech and Polish jets currently guard Slovak skies. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Germany has offered to strengthen Slovak air defence after it withdraws its Patriot air defence systems from the country. The systems were transferred to Slovakia last March, shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but are to be used at the July NATO summit in Lithuania, and will not return to Slovakia. "Germany additionally offered to support the guarding of Slovak airspace with its air force," the German Ministry of Defence Boris Pistorius said. Since last September, Czech and Polish fighter jets have been ensuring the security of Slovak skies. Germany will also soon hand over two MANTIS anti-aircraft systems to Slovakia, which will be used to protect the latter's eastern border. Mantis is a fully automated weapons system designed to protect ground objects from rockets, artillery fire, mortar fire and unmanned aerial vehicles. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/ai-poses-existential-threat-to-humanity-tech-leaders-warn-1110807567.html AI Poses Existential Threat to Humanity, Tech Leaders Warn AI Poses Existential Threat to Humanity, Tech Leaders Warn Unlike a previous message calling for a pause on AI development, the latest open letter to note how much damage the field could cause has been signed by some... 31.05.2023, Sputnik International 2023-05-31T04:01+0000 2023-05-31T04:01+0000 2023-05-31T04:54+0000 science & tech artificial intelligence ai technology warning beyond politics /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/08/1110205255_3:0:1454:816_1920x0_80_0_0_1fcf5a9f4972c2af13ac1979e47fbfd9.png Hundreds of artificial intelligence researchers and technology executives have signed off on a stark warning that AI poses an existential threat to humanity, in the latest sign of widespread alarm within the industry over the potential threat posed by the new field.Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, reads a Tuesday statement released by the nonprofit Center for AI Safety.The release carried the signatures of some of the industrys top names, including ChatGPT creator and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and nearly 40 members of Googles DeepMind artificial intelligence unit.Dan Hendrycks, the computer scientist leading the Center for AI Safety, said the letters brevity was intentional.Its not the first institutional effort to draw attention to the problem.Another public letter published in March attracted the signatures of over 1,000 academics, businessmen, and technology specialists urging a pause in AI development until it can be regulated and run responsibly.As US media reported, most of the fields most influential leaders didnt sign that letter, but they have signed the new statement, including Altman and two of Googles most senior AI executives: Demis Hassabis and James Manyika.While the signatures of Microsoft Chief Technology Officer Kevin Scott and Microsoft Chief Scientific Officer Eric Horvitz both appear on the statement, notably absent from the letter is Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, the fields two most powerful corporate leaders, one outlet explained.Earlier this month, Altman testified before Congress that AI could cause significant harm to the world either by spreading disinformation or by manipulating humans emotions, and its potential to wreak havoc in peoples lives is quickly becoming clear. A number of companies have already expressed a desire to replace human workers with the technology. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230529/scientist-warns-of-looming-existential-threat-as-hyper-intelligent-ai-could-decide-to-take-over-1110772797.html Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Wyatt Reed Wyatt Reed News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Wyatt Reed science & tech, artificial intelligence, ai, technology, warning https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/akhmat-fighters-successfully-advance-near-maryinka---russian-mod-1110815769.html Akhmat Fighters Successfully Advance Near Maryinka - Russian MoD Akhmat Fighters Successfully Advance Near Maryinka - Russian MoD The assault troops of the 5th motorized infantry brigade and the fighters of the Akhmat special unit are advancing in the Maryinka direction, the Russian Defense Ministry said. 2023-05-31T10:20+0000 2023-05-31T10:20+0000 2023-05-31T10:25+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russian defense ministry avdeevka donetsk russia ramzan kadyrov chechnya /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/1f/1110815406_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_e09319fac42a71d81b5d1213dc183dcd.jpg The assault troops of the 5th motorized infantry brigade and the fighters of the Akhmat Special Rapid Response Unit are advancing in the Maryinka direction, the Russian Defense Ministry said. Russian Defense Ministry added that the fiercest battles during the special military operation over the past 24 hours have been taking place in the Donetsk direction, near Avdeevka. Earlier, it was reported that the Akhmat special forces fighters had received orders to relocate and now the Donetsk people's republic is their area of responsibility. According to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, the units have the task of switching to active military operations and liberating a number of populated areas. The head of Chechnya said in his Telegram channel that the redeployment of Chechen units is supported by the Ministry of Defense. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230529/russian-forces-strike-at-ukrainian-airfields---mod-1110771161.html avdeevka donetsk russia chechnya Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International advance near maryinka, assault troops, akhmat special unit https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/beijing-reveals-whose-provocative-actions-led-chinese-jet-to-buzz-us-spy-plane-1110818043.html Beijing Explains Whose Provocative Actions Led Chinese Jet to Buzz US Spy Plane Beijing Explains Whose Provocative Actions Led Chinese Jet to Buzz US Spy Plane The Pentagon has accused a Peoples Liberation Army Air Force J-16 fighter of engaging in aggressive and unprofessional maneuvers near a US spy plane conducting routine operations in airspace over the South China Sea last Friday. China has warned the US repeatedly against conducting military operations in or over the body of water. 2023-05-31T14:06+0000 2023-05-31T14:06+0000 2023-05-31T14:11+0000 hillary clinton china mao ning south china sea washington pentagon chinese foreign ministry us indo-pacific command j-15 united nations convention on the law of the sea (unclos) /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/1f/1110817783_19:0:1402:778_1920x0_80_0_0_1b15f08f29d849f242c0e0185d57d938.png Washingtons "provocative and dangerous" military reconnaissance activities, including the use of carrier-based aircraft to conduct spy missions against China, are to blame for the escalating tensions in the South China Sea, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning has said.The United States long-term and frequent sending of ships and planes to conduct close surveillance on China seriously harms Chinas national sovereignty and security, Mao said in a press briefing on Wednesday.Maos comments follow complaints from US Indo-Pacific Command about an incident said to have taken place last Friday involving a Chinese J-15 jet intercepting and flying alongside a US Air Force RC-135 reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea, and then jetting off directly in front of the plane, forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence.USINDOPACOM called the maneuver unnecessarily aggressive, and assured that its own plane was conducting routine operationsin international airspace and in accordance with international law.China has frequently warned the US to stop engaging in air and naval maneuvers through contested waters in the South China Sea which the Peoples Republic claims as its own. Washington has refused to heed these calls, stressing that it will continue to engage in such operations, which it has dubbed freedom of navigation missions, and sought to forge regional security ties with other nations and territories with claims to the body of water, including Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam and Taiwan.China has worked to try to resolve the maritime territorial disputes in the South China through negotiations, signing a landmark framework with ASEAN bloc nations in 2002 known as the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.Further negotiations on a common framework for interaction and dispute resolution have been slow, particularly after former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton announced in 2010 that the freedom of navigation and open access to Asias maritime commons in the South China Sea were matters of US national interest. Washington itself has no direct territorial claims on the body of water.Geologists and fisheries experts believe that the South China Sea is brimming with tens of trillions of dollars worth of oil, gas and fishing resources. The body of water is also a strategic trade artery, with over $3 trillion in goods passing through it every year.Along with the United States, Britain and Australia have sent their own warships and aircraft into the South China Sea on freedom of navigation missions which have turned into a favorite tool of Western countries to maintained unrestricted access to global waters despite Washingtons refusal to join the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas. US officials have recently proposed similar tactics in the thawing Arctic waters off northern Russia, where Moscow is working to create a massive new trade corridor known as the Northern Sea Route. However, here Washington has faced difficulties, given the more than 50-to-1 disparity in the number of Arctic-class icebreakers between Russia and the US. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230529/philippine-coast-guard-to-hold-first-ever-joint-drills-with-us-japan-1110762277.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20220605/aussie-spy-plane-engines-ingested-chinese-chaff-during-intercept-in-south-china-sea-canberra-claims-1096029499.html china south china sea washington Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 US accuses Chinese J-16 jet of unnecessarily aggressive maneuver in front of RC-135 reconnaissance plane US accuses Chinese J-16 jet of unnecessarily aggressive maneuver in front of RC-135 reconnaissance plane 2023-05-31T14:06+0000 true PT0M27S 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov china, united states, south china sea, fighter jet, intercept, provocation, maneuvers, buzzing, incident, spy plane https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/children-to-be-evacuated-from-russias-belgorod-region-after-ukrainian-shelling-1110809507.html Children to Be Evacuated From Russia's Belgorod Region After Ukrainian Shelling Children to Be Evacuated From Russia's Belgorod Region After Ukrainian Shelling The number of casualties caused by overnight shelling in the Shebekinsky and Graivoronsky districts of the Belgorod region has risen to four, Belgorod Region Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov has said. 2023-05-31T06:46+0000 2023-05-31T06:46+0000 2023-05-31T06:49+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine belgorod region ukraine voronezh grad belgorod russia /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/03/01/1093476864_0:146:3123:1902_1920x0_80_0_0_bdaea1a66fa7e09458749ea9f805e707.jpg The number of casualties caused by overnight shelling in the Shebekinsky and Graivoronsky districts of the Belgorod region has risen to five.The Governor of Belgorod Region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, has provided details of the incident. The governor specified that the man taken to hospital received shrapnel wounds to the neck and back and is in serious condition now, and the woman got shrapnel wounds to the arm and forearm. Another two woman refused from hospitalization and get help on the spot.Children will be moved from Belgorod's Shebekinsky and Graivoronsky districts from Wednesday, he said.Earlier, he said that a group of schoolchildren from the Shebekinsky district would go to the Landysh children's health camp at the invitation of Alexander Gusev, the governor of the Voronezh region. A total of 300 children from Belgorod will stay there during the first shift. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230524/the-only-thing-they-could-do-why-ukraine-raided-russias-belgorod-region-1110559580.html belgorod region ukraine belgorod russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia's belgorod region, ukrainian shelling, children to be vacuated https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/china-already-world-leader-signaling-erosion-of-us-run-middle-east-system---chomsky-1110809676.html China Already World Leader, Signaling Erosion of US-Run Middle East System - Chomsky China Already World Leader, Signaling Erosion of US-Run Middle East System - Chomsky China has already become a world leader and its entering the Middle East arms market shows the erosion of the system in the region that has been run by the United States for 80 years, prominent US academic and philosopher Noam Chomsky told Sputnik. 2023-05-31T05:33+0000 2023-05-31T05:33+0000 2023-05-31T05:33+0000 world noam chomsky china shanghai cooperation organisation (sco) shanghai /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/14/1110488657_0:164:3040:1874_1920x0_80_0_0_d3164fa3e3d485d5b827accc9b54ce40.jpg When asked whether he believes that China will become a world leader, Chomsky said, "It already is." Chomsky explained that the programs based on the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) extend throughout Eurasia and considerably beyond. Chomsky pointed out that China is now entering the Middle East arms market. Renowned US investor Jim Rogers told Sputnik earlier in May that China will become the next great country and most important nation of this century. Last October, Chinese President Xi Jinping said the countrys leadership considers it necessary to accelerate the process of turning China into a leading world industrial power, including in the development of manufacturing industry, astronautics, transport and network technologies. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230509/new-era-of-cooperation-xi-jinping-to-chair-china-central-asia-summit-1110218163.html china shanghai Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International world leader, china, united states, noam chomsky, middle east arms market https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/chomsky-europe-may-face-decline-deindustrialization-by-staying-in-us-dominated-system-1110807834.html Chomsky: Europe May Face Decline, Deindustrialization by Staying in 'US-Dominated System' Chomsky: Europe May Face Decline, Deindustrialization by Staying in 'US-Dominated System' Europe will experience a likely decline and deindustrialization if it chooses to stay within the system dominated by the United States, renowned US academic and philosopher Noam Chomsky told Sputnik. 2023-05-31T04:17+0000 2023-05-31T04:17+0000 2023-05-31T05:18+0000 world europe noam chomsky mikhail gorbachev vladimir putin eurasia /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/105480/52/1054805293_0:79:1343:834_1920x0_80_0_0_55f10f51fe204f30abef451140850618.jpg "Europe has a major decision to make: Will it stay within the US-dominated system, facing likely decline and even, some predict, deindustrialization?" Chomsky said. "Or will it accommodate in some fashion to its natural economic partner to the East, rich in mineral resources that Europe needs and a gateway to the lucrative China market?" Chomsky noted that these questions have arisen in one form or another since World War II. When asked whether he thinks we are on the threshold of a new world order and if the Ukrainian conflict can be a catalyst for major changes, Chomsky said: "There is much controversy about the shape of the emerging world system." Chomsky explained the basic alternatives are a multipolar United Nations-based system or a unipolar "rules-based" system, where the United States sets the rules and as the record reveals, disregards them when it chooses to. "There are many uncertainties as to how these tensions will be resolved," he said. Earlier in May, US investor Jim Rogers told Sputnik that political unions like the European Union have never survived in history and this bloc is already experiencing problems.The renowned US academic and philosopher further told Sputnik that he is hopeful Europe will be inclined toward the vision of former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev 'From Lisbon to Vladivostok' before it gets worse.I also think there is considerable merit in Gorbachev's proposal for a common European home from Lisbon to Vladivostok with no military alliances and common efforts to move toward a social democratic future, Chomsky said.The United States chose to pursue the Atlanticist option, based on NATO, which has recently been expanded to the Indo-Pacific region in a Washington-led effort to enlist Europe in its confrontation with China, Chomsky said.None of the actions taken by the successors of former US President George H.W. Bush in violation of the agreements between him and then-Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev on NATO should have taken place, Chomsky said.Chomsky noted that Bush and Gorbachev agreed that Germany should be unified and join NATO, but the military alliance should not extend "one inch to the East" of Germany.However, Chomsky said Bushs successor, Bill Clinton, violated the agreement, overriding the strong objections of high-level US diplomats and a wide range of political analysts, who warned that actions to expand NATO were reckless and provocative."His successors went further, also abrogating major arms control agreements that had significantly reduced the threat of war. None of these actions should have taken place, in my opinion," Chomsky said. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230507/us-fuelling-breakdown-of-france-germany-while-capitalizing-on-weak-europe-1110162723.html eurasia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International noam chomsky, europe, deindustrialization, us-dominated system, mikhail gorbachev 'from lisbon to vladivostok' https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/conservative-us-lawmakers-eye-ousting-mccarthy-over-debt-ceiling-deal-with-biden-1110806248.html Conservative US Lawmakers Eye Ousting McCarthy Over Debt Ceiling Deal With Biden Conservative US Lawmakers Eye Ousting McCarthy Over Debt Ceiling Deal With Biden The Republican Partys most conservative members of Congress are considering removing House Speaker Kevin McCarthy after he made an agreement with US President Joe Biden to raise the debt ceiling. 2023-05-31T00:51+0000 2023-05-31T00:51+0000 2023-05-31T04:39+0000 us us debt ceiling crisis joe biden kevin mccarthy house speaker ouster us house of representatives americas /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/1e/1110786784_0:187:2980:1863_1920x0_80_0_0_544c426b5cf6d1fe134f8b6b70635038.jpg The Republican Partys most conservative members of Congress are considering removing House Speaker Kevin McCarthy after he made an agreement with US President Joe Biden to raise the debt ceiling.On Tuesday, Rep. Dan Bishop (R-NC) said he absolutely supports a motion to oust McCarthy, suggesting a vote to do so is inescapable.It has to be done, Bishop told a US outlet in an interview confirming his status as the first conservative in the lower chamber to publicly urge a revolt against the House speaker.Asked whether he was worried about Bishop proposing a motion to oust him, McCarthy replied: No, thats his choice.Numerous conservative-leaning lawmakers have lambasted the deal, suggesting it doesnt do nearly enough to rein in spending. But so far representatives had refrained from publicly threatening to remove the leader over the agreement.Although Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA), who serves as the Freedom Caucus chairman, reportedly suggested it may be too soon to issue such a drastic threat, Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ) stated the removal motion could help force McCarthy to let members amend the bill and use a so-called "open rule" to stall its passage, possibly indefinitely. Perry reportedly pledged to discuss the issue further when members return to Washington after the extended weekend break.Buck confirmed Tuesday that he raised the question of considering a motion to vacate on Monday, but said he wasnt specifically calling for McCarthys ouster.I was asking my colleagues in the House Freedom Caucus whether they were considering a motion to vacate as a result of a broken promise, Buck said, adding, Scott Perry, the chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, told me its premature: Lets get through this battle, and decide if we want another battle.A spokesperson for Buck reportedly declined to comment on the call but said the representative is looking to solve the debt ceiling impasse in a way that seriously limits government spending.At a Tuesday conference held by conservative congressional members, Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) warned GOP leaders they would face a reckoning" if the measure was allow to proceed. The Republican conference right now has been torn asunder, he said, before ultimately suggesting not one Republican should vote for the deal. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230529/text-of-us-biden-mccarthy-debt-ceiling-deal-bill-released-1110758898.html americas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Wyatt Reed Wyatt Reed News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Wyatt Reed gop, republican party, house speaker kevin mccarthy, us president joe biden, debt ceiling, ouster https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/elon-musk-meets-with-chinas-commerce-industry-ministry-chiefs-in-beijing-1110811430.html Elon Musk Meets With China's Commerce, Industry Ministry Chiefs in Beijing Elon Musk Meets With China's Commerce, Industry Ministry Chiefs in Beijing Tesla's Elon Musk reportedly visited China's Commerce, Industry Ministries, ahead of visit to Shanghai-based Gigafactory. 2023-05-31T13:04+0000 2023-05-31T13:04+0000 2023-05-31T13:04+0000 world elon musk tesla shanghai qin gang china gigafactory electric vehicles /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/1f/1110810957_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_0d07dc0736a5f190b6201798ddf7398b.jpg Elon Musk kicked off day two of his China visit with an appearance at the countrys Commerce and Industry ministries, according to media reports. One of the worlds richest men purportedly left his hotel in the morning flanked by Grace Tao, Tesla's vice president in charge of external communications in China, and Tom Zhu, who was promoted to the position of senior vice president of Teslas automotive business in April.After meeting at the Commerce Ministry with Minister Wang Wentao, Musk proceeded to Chinas Ministry of Industry and Information, empowered with regulatory oversight of the automotive industry. Further said to be on Musk's agenda are meetings with a host of other senior Chinese officials, with the trip to be rounded off with a visit to Tesla's Shanghai-based Gigafactory, its first overseas manufacturing plant for electric vehicles (EVs). Walking the US-China LineA day earlier, Musk met with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang, vowing that his electric carmaker would continue to expand operations in China, the world's largest EV market. He added that a "healthy, stable and constructive" Sino-US relationship benefits not only both countries but the entire world.Elon Musk responded by underscoring that the interests of the US and China were "intertwined like conjoined twins."Tesla opposes "decoupling and breaking chains, and is willing to continue to expand its business in China and share China's development opportunities," he was quoted as saying.Hot on the heels of the reports of the Musk-Qin meeting, US markets reacted by registering a close to 5% surge in Teslas stock on Tuesday.Elon Musk's visit to China comes against the backdrop of spriralling tensions that have brought US-China ties to one of their lowest points in decades. Musk's statements, however, have struck a tone quite different from that of the hawks in Washington hell-bent on promoting the "China threat" narrative. Musk sparked ire in Taipei recently, as he said that there was a "certain inevitability" to Taiwan's reunification with mainland China. The island has been autonomous since the end of the civil war in 1949, however, Beijing has laid out a plan for its eventual reintegration into the PRC under a "One Country, Two Systems" arrangement.Earlier this week, Musk also praised Beijing's space programme, tweeting it was far more advanced than many realised, after China's state news reported that the country would land people on the moon by the end of this decade.White-Hot MarketThe world's largest market for EVs, with nearly 6 million being sold in 2022, China is a critical market for Tesla, which has been vying for the Chinese buyer with a spate of domestic powerhouses, like BYD, Xpeng, Nio, and Li Auto. China business has accounted for under a third of Tesla's annual sales. However, Musk's visit comes amid an ongoing EV price war, triggered after Tesla opted to slash prices in China late last year. This turned up the heat on the already tense competition. Bearing in mind that China has made clear its goal of converting a majority of vehicles from petroleum-powered to electric-powered or fuel cell-powered by 2035, its small wonder that China's EV market is white-hot. There have been reports that the Gigafactory is expected to soon start producing a new version of the Model 3. Furthermore, Tesla was rumored to be trying to gain regulatory approval to launch a FSD Beta in China. FSD Beta is a software update - still under development - that allows Tesla cars to drive themselves on city streets. The driver-assist feature under Autopilot and FSD has come up against regulatory approval hurdles. Furthermore, last month, Musk had announced that Tesla would also construct a Superfactory in Shanghai for making EV batteries. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230530/elon-musk-tells-chinese-fm-qin-gang-he-opposes-decoupling-us-from-beijing-1110799785.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230410/tesla-to-build-superfactory-in-shanghai-to-produce-megapack-batteries-1109307493.html shanghai china Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Svetlana Ekimenko Svetlana Ekimenko News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Svetlana Ekimenko tesla's elon musk, tesla ceo, china's commerce, industry ministries, shanghai-based gigafactory, world's largest market for evs, us-china tensions, tesla's model 3, regulatory approval, to launch fsd beta, musk in china https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/erdogan-wins-drones-attack-moscow-debt-ceiling-deal-1110805047.html Erdogan Wins; Drones Attack Moscow; Debt Ceiling Deal Erdogan Wins; Drones Attack Moscow; Debt Ceiling Deal Turkiye President Recep Erdogan has officially won the election and retains his leadership of the second-largest land army in NATO. 2023-05-31T04:34+0000 2023-05-31T04:34+0000 2023-05-31T09:48+0000 the critical hour radio turkiye recep tayyip erdogan ukraine crimea moscow brics south africa /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/1e/1110804890_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_ebe3ce9e62d8993e48149478128ad412.png Erdogan Wins; Drones Attack Moscow; Debt Ceiling Deal Turkiye President Recepp Erdogan has officially won the election and retains his leadership of the second-largest land army in NATO. Regis Tremblay, an American citizen in Crimea, joins us to discuss the elections in Turkiye. Turkiye President Recep Erdogan has officially won the election and retains his leadership of the second-largest land army in NATO.Mark Sleboda, Moscow-based international relations security analyst, joins us to discuss Ukraine. Democrats in Congress demand a more aggressive and dangerous policy toward Russia. Also, South Africa guarantees immunity for participants in the June meeting and the August BRICS summit.Linwood Tauheed, associate professor of Economics at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, joins us to discuss the debt ceiling. Progressive leaders argue that they are considering withdrawing support for President Biden's debt ceiling deal but most observers believe that they will fall in line for the vote.Yolian Ogbu, member of the Black Alliance for Peace and Horn of Africa Pan-Africans for Liberation and Solidarity, joins us to discuss Africa. African nations are pushing back against US hegemony as there is talk of new Russian bases in West Africa and the end of unipolarism in the resource-rich region.Laith Marouf, broadcaster, and journalist based in Beirut, Lebanon, joins us to discuss the Middle East. Turkiye President Recep Erdogan has officially won the election and retains his leadership of the second-largest land army in NATO. Also, Israel attacks Syria, and Netanyahu may be paying for ditching the Democrats.KJ Noh, writer, teacher, and activist, Professor of Political Science at the University of Rhode Island, joins us to discuss China. Australia is inundated with war propaganda. Also, China is refusing to meet with US war personnel.Jim Kavanagh, whose work can be found at Jim Kavanagh's Substack, thepolemicist.net, and Counterpunch, joins us to discuss the new world order. Notorious hawk Fiona Hill gave a talk recently wherein she acknowledged the decline of US hegemony.Marjorie Cohn, Professor Emerita at Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego, joins us to discuss Palestine. There is no safe place in Gaza to hide from Israeli military assaults.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comThe views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik. turkiye ukraine crimea moscow south africa Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Wilmer Leon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/12/1082114047_0:-1:238:238_100x100_80_0_0_4e3adef3e334e381bffe19d388f4b776.jpg Wilmer Leon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/12/1082114047_0:-1:238:238_100x100_80_0_0_4e3adef3e334e381bffe19d388f4b776.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Wilmer Leon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/12/1082114047_0:-1:238:238_100x100_80_0_0_4e3adef3e334e381bffe19d388f4b776.jpg the critical hour, did erdogan get elected, who is the newly elected president of turkey, why the usa is so aggressive toward russia, what is brics and its purpose, who is the brics countries, debt ceiling problem, the new world order https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/ex-pm-reveals-big-mistake-by-kiev-that-insults-millions-of-ukrainians-1110820570.html Ex-PM Reveals Big Mistake by Kiev That Insults 'Millions of Ukrainians' Ex-PM Reveals Big Mistake by Kiev That Insults 'Millions of Ukrainians' The politician, who served as Ukraines prime minister in three governments before being ousted on the eve of the 2014 Euromaidan coup detat, has become an outspoken critic of the countrys post-coup authorities. 2023-05-31T16:04+0000 2023-05-31T16:04+0000 2023-05-31T16:12+0000 world mykola azarov volodymyr zelensky petro poroshenko ukraine kiev red army nazis ukrainian insurgent army (upa) nazism /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/18489/00/184890092_0:141:2276:1421_1920x0_80_0_0_c7c21b895343dae6dbe59cb41d5b1e40.jpg Ukrainian lawmakers decision to officially mark Victory Day on May 8 instead of May 9 is a slap in the face to millions of Ukrainians whose forefathers fought against the Nazis, former Prime Minister Nikolay Azarov has said.Stressing that it would be impossible to discuss the contribution of the Western allies and Soviet Ukrainians in the anti-Hitler coalition by singling out the latter from the rest of the Red Army, Azarov expressed concern that after the passage of the new law, celebrations dedicated to the Great Patriotic War on May 9 may ultimately be banned entirely, just "as they were in Latvia under the pretext of a ban on the glorification of totalitarianism."Ukraine's authorities have slowly and methodically whitewashed the memory of victory in the Great Patriotic War the term used in post-Soviet countries to refer to the Eastern Front of World War II, since the 2014 coup. (Across the post-Soviet space, Victory Day is held on May 9 because the German instrument of surrender signed in Berlin late in the evening on May 8, 1945 coincided with the early morning hours of May 9 in Moscow.)In 2015, President Volodymyr Zelensky's predecessor, Petro Poroshenko, created a new holiday on May 8 known as "Remembrance and Reconciliation Day." The holiday led to attempts to "reinterpret" Ukraine's wartime history, and to "reconcile" the millions of Ukrainians who fought alongside Russians, Belarusians, Kazakhs, Uzbeks, Armenians, Azeris, Jews, and dozens of other Soviet nationalities in the Red Army with fascist militias who collaborated with the Nazis and engaged in war crimes against Poles, Russians, Jews, and other Ukrainians.Over six million Ukrainians fought in the ranks of the Red Army during World War II, compared to just 100,000-400,000 or so fighters of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) fascist militias. Yet in post-Soviet Ukraine, the latter have enjoyed an outsized influence in the public space, starting with the reinterpretation of history textbooks in their favor, and the creation of monuments to fascist leaders including Stepan Bandera and Roman Shukhevych. This blatant Nazi resurgence, ignored by the West, culminated in the formation of gangs of organized nationalist thugs who helped overthrow the Yanukovych government in 2014, serving as the "muscle" in street protests.These forces have played an active role in fighting against Donbass militias and the Russian military, and had outsized influence in the formation of official government policy, including by carrying out repressions against political dissidents, and keeping watch over authorities to prevent a softening of Kievs anti-Russian positions. https://sputnikglobe.com/20220515/latvian-mercenaries-en-route-to-ukraine-sport-nazi-insignias-photos-1095528313.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20170506/nazi-occupied-kherson-report-declassified-1053337885.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20220508/old-men-for-beating-how-world-war-ii-veterans-were-abused-for-years-in-ukraine-1095508241.html ukraine kiev Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ilya Tsukanov nikolai azarov, mykola azarov, ukraine, may 9, victory day, red army, commemoration, historical memory https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/medvedev-bashes-goofy-uk-officials-for-leading-de-facto-undeclared-war-with-russia--1110811158.html Medvedev Bashes 'Goofy' UK Officials for 'Leading De Facto Undeclared War' on Russia Medvedev Bashes 'Goofy' UK Officials for 'Leading De Facto Undeclared War' on Russia Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev said that the UK is leading an undeclared war against Russia. 2023-05-31T07:35+0000 2023-05-31T07:35+0000 2023-05-31T09:00+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russia united kingdom (uk) russian defense ministry ukraine dmitry medvedev /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/09/0d/1100732111_0:0:2899:1631_1920x0_80_0_0_452844bf923f211c05cf47770bf26042.jpg Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev took to Twitter to unload on the UK for "leading an undeclared war against Russia"."The goofy officials of the UK, our eternal enemy, should remember that within the framework of the universally accepted international law which regulates modern warfare, including the Hague and Geneva Conventions with their additional protocols, their state can also be qualified as being at war. Today, the UK acts as Ukraines ally providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto is leading an undeclared war against Russia. That being the case, any of its public officials (either military, or civil, who facilitate the war) can be considered as a legitimate military target," Medvedev tweeted.The Russian Defense Ministry said the Kiev regime on Tuesday launched a terrorist drone attack on Moscow. It said eight aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) were involved: five were shot down from an anti-aircraft gun system in the Moscow Region, three were suppressed by electronic warfare and deviated from their intended targets. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov, commenting on the attack, said it was Kiev's response to Russia's effective strikes on one of Ukraine's decision-making centers on Sunday.On May 11, UK Defense Minister Ben Wallace confirmed that London was sending long-range Storm Shadow cruise missiles to Kiev. Ukraine has been using this weaponry to target Russian positions since then. The strikes have resulted in injuries among civilians, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.Western countries have been supplying Kiev with various types of weapon systems, including air defense missiles, multiple launch rocket systems, tanks, self-propelled artillery and anti-aircraft guns, since Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine over a year ago. The Kremlin has consistently warned against further arms deliveries to Kiev. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230521/uk-to-start-training-ukrainian-pilots-this-summer-1110498800.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230515/uks-military-aid-to-ukraine-will-not-affect-russias-special-military-op---moscow-1110373011.html russia united kingdom (uk) ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russian security council deputy chairman dmitry medvedev, undeclared war, war against russia https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/minsk-believes-deploying-russian-tactical-nuclear-arms-to-cool-down-war-like-rhetoric-1110813981.html Minsk Believes Deploying Russian Tactical Nuclear Arms to Cool Down War-Like Rhetoric Minsk Believes Deploying Russian Tactical Nuclear Arms to Cool Down War-Like Rhetoric Minsk expects that agreements with Russia on the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in the republic will cool down the war-like rhetoric of neighboring Western countries and Ukraine and will not allow a more global military confrontation, Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin said on Wednesday. 2023-05-31T09:18+0000 2023-05-31T09:18+0000 2023-05-31T09:18+0000 world boris gryzlov russia belarus tactical nuclear weapons /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107960/97/1079609700_0:110:3249:1937_1920x0_80_0_0_361e8dfc04f1331a23186f4d90379e17.jpg "I have recently signed with my Russian counterpart a regulation on the procedure for keeping nuclear weapons on the territory of Belarus. This is an effective measure that should cool the aggressive character and war-like rhetoric that comes from our neighbors and prevent it from escalating into some kind of global, large-scale war," Khrenin said in his address to the parliament.Russian President Vladimir Putin said on March 25 that Moscow and Minsk had agreed to station Russia's tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, which does not breach Russia's commitments on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons. On April 2, Russian Ambassador to Belarus Boris Gryzlov said that nuclear weapons in Belarus would be stationed closer to the western borders of the Union State. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230526/why-is-russia-deploying-tactical-nuclear-weapons-in-belarus-1110607130.html russia belarus Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International tactical nuclear arms, war-like rhetoric, global military confrontation https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/musks-beijing-visit-could-lead-to-better-understanding-of-us-china-diplomatic-nuances-1110821851.html Musk's Beijing Visit Could Lead to 'Better Understanding' of US-China Diplomacy Musk's Beijing Visit Could Lead to 'Better Understanding' of US-China Diplomacy Americans talk big about standing up to China and isolating the massive socialist state, but much of the nuance is lost on panicky business leaders trying to read the tea leaves of international trade and protect profit margins. 2023-05-31T16:17+0000 2023-05-31T16:17+0000 2023-05-31T19:21+0000 analysis elon musk qin gang china us-china relations economic decoupling /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/04/0c/1109375196_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_af8506b3c7e71e815539013eaf0e9619.jpg On Tuesday, American industrialist Elon Musk arrived in China for meetings with top trade officials as well as Qin Gang, the Chinese foreign minister and former ambassador to the United States. The visit is intended to shore up his business relations with the economic superpower, including expanding operations by Tesla, the electric vehicle maker that he owns, in what has become the world's largest EV market.However, Musk also vocally denounced the US governments efforts to force a "decoupling" of the US and Chinese economies, including by pressuring American companies to end their operations in China and shift their supply sources outside of China.Thomas W. Pauken II, the author of "US vs China: From Trade War to Reciprocal Deal," a consultant on Asia-Pacific affairs, and geopolitical commentator, told Sputnik on Wednesday that while some companies receiving subsidies from the US are pursuing "decoupling" because it now profits them to do so, others are pulling out of China because they see the writing on the wall and fear a catastrophic severing of relations is brewing. Meanwhile, businessmen like Musk see profit and opportunity in the Chinese market, so they are pursuing their interests, too.Musk and his like-minded peers, Pauken said, are looking to continue doing business in China because its cheaper and more efficient than elsewhere.Those points make up, in large part, what Pauken said he expected to be the substance of Musks talks with Chinese business leaders. Another issue might be Twitter, which Musk bought last November and which is banned in China. Pauken suggested Musk might seek to pressure Beijing to look at the social media giant differently - a way that perhaps might lead to its unbanning.Pauken said that the threat of forced decoupling in the future is pushing a lot of high-tech companies to begin the process now, fearing that "if they're too reliant on China" they could find themselves "in a serious problem where we could go bankrupt from that overreliance.""And then, at the same time, you have a lot of problems [with] communications between the US and China in order to understand the real interpretation of such a messaging. And it's a real challenge, because there's not really much direct talk and it's possible that when it comes to Elon Musk being in China, he may get a better interpretation of what China's understanding is. And it's possible that the American companies will approach Elon Musk to ask what he talked about with China," Pauken said.Turning to Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfus refusal to meet with Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin, which hit headlines on Wednesday, Pauken noted that Li is still on a US sanctions list for a 2018 purchase of Russian-made S-400 air defense systems by China.Similarly, he noted that "in order for China and the US to improve their relations, you have to resolve the economic and business issues first, and then that can create the right platform to have an improvement in the diplomatic issues related to military and political diplomatic issues." https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/elon-musk-meets-with-chinas-commerce-industry-ministry-chiefs-in-beijing-1110811430.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230522/beijing-banning-micron-means-china-has-mastered-chip-making-1110523565.html china Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Fantine Gardinier Fantine Gardinier News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Fantine Gardinier elon musk; china; us; li shangfu; decoupling; tesla https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/photo-north-korea-vows-new-satellite-launch-as-seoul-recovers-suspected-rocket-debris-1110807001.html Photo: North Korea Vows New Satellite Launch as Seoul Recovers Suspected Rocket Debris Photo: North Korea Vows New Satellite Launch as Seoul Recovers Suspected Rocket Debris North Korea vowed Wednesday to conduct a second satellite launch after engine issues prompted its earlier effort to crash into the sea. 2023-05-31T03:15+0000 2023-05-31T03:15+0000 2023-05-31T03:12+0000 asia north korea spy satellite north korea missile launch debris yellow sea /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/0b/02/1102940116_0:0:3073:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_650314e608cde5fe85da7b3cabc45fa2.jpg North Korea vowed Wednesday to conduct a second satellite launch after engine issues forced its earlier effort to crash into the sea.State media specified the launch's demise was the result of a technical issue that took place when the second stage of the rocket failed to ignite and prompted the projectile to lose power and fall into the Yellow Sea. The new satellite vehicle rocket, Chollima-1, crashed into the West Sea as it lost propulsion due to an abnormal startup of the engine on the 2nd stage after the 1st stage was separated during normal flight, state media detailed. Officials have underscored that a second launch would be held "in the nearest future" once authorities are able to correct the tech issue. South Korean military has suggested a launch would be undertaken sometime before June 11, as previously timelined by North Korea.A spokesperson of North Korea's space agency said the launch mishap was believed to be caused by the lack of reliability and stability of the new engine system implemented in the Chollima-1 rocket and the instability of the fuel used, state media reported. Earlier Tuesday, the launch triggered a series of emergency alert systems and sirens in Japan and South Korea as residents of both nations were urged to seek shelter. However, not long after initial reports were aired, the South Korean Interior Ministry admitted to having issued warnings in Seoul in "error."Since the launch, several parties - including the US, Japan and South Korea - have condemned the act. The United States strongly condemns the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) for its launch using ballistic missile technology, which is a brazen violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions, raises tensions, and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region and beyond, National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge said in a statement, claiming the satellite launch appeared to used tech tied to Pyongyang's intercontinental ballistic missile program.Echoing actions currently being taken by Japan and South Korea, the Biden White House has indicated it will be monitoring the situation. Debris RecoveryHours after the incident was reported, the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff reported its forces were working to extract a suspected part of a North Korean rocket detected in the waters of the Yellow Sea.Photos of what's believed to be debris from the launch has since been shared by South Korea officials. Citing South Korea military, local media has reported that the debris is suspected of being a structure that connected the first and second stage of the rocket.Although searches of the region are ongoing, officials have stated an analysis will be forthcoming to determine whether any foreign parts were used in the rockets construction. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230530/emergency-sirens-sound-in-japan-south-korea-as-north-korea-launches-projectile-1110804702.html yellow sea Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International north korea, south korea, japan, seoul, reconnaissance satellite https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/russia-sanctions-push-europe-into-uncertain-waters-1110814200.html Russia Sanctions Push Europe Into Uncertain Waters Russia Sanctions Push Europe Into Uncertain Waters In this weeks episode of the New Rules podcast, host Dimitri Simes Jr. speaks with Jacques Sapir, a French economist, about why Western sanctions failed to inflict serious damage to the Russian economy. 2023-05-31T04:04+0000 2023-05-31T04:04+0000 2023-05-31T09:33+0000 new rules radio dedollarisation economy jacques sapir russia european union (eu) russian economy under sanctions sanctions new world order /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/1f/1110813599_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_94df77aef28da48ddc72adfea52b74f1.jpg Russia Sanctions Push Europe Into Uncertain Waters In this weeks episode of the New Rules podcast, host Dimitri Simes Jr. speaks with Jacques Sapir, a French economist, about why Western sanctions failed to inflict serious damage to the Russian economy. Sapir also warned that European economy is headed for turbulent waters over the next decade, including a potential energy crisis in the winter of 2023-24. Jacques Sapir, Director of Studies at the School for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences (EHESS) in Paris, one of the leading European experts on the Russian economy also warned that European economy is headed for turbulent waters over the next decade, including a potential energy crisis in the winter of 2023-24. "The problem is how to restore, how to rebuild European competitiveness in ten years. Because the entry costs are much higher now, especially for oil and gas. With other countries like China and India buying oil at a much reduced price from Russia, the problem of competitiveness will be a very, very serious one. Just look at what is happening with Germany. The trade surplus of Germany has considerably decreased and the German economy is right now in a quiet high recession as a German GDP has been -0.5% for the last quarter of 2022, it's again -0.3% for the first quarter of the year."We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comThe views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik. russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Simes Dimitri Simes Dimitri News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Simes Dimitri new rules, how does russian economy cope with sanctions, what are the sanctions on russia, how sanctions have changed russian economic policy, what is the current state of the russian economy, could the russian economy thrive despite western sanctions, impact of sanctions on the russian economy https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/russia-temporarily-bans-export-of-bullets-casings-1110814599.html Russia Temporarily Bans Export of Bullets, Casings Russia Temporarily Bans Export of Bullets, Casings The Russian government said on Wednesday that export of bullets and casings are banned until December 31, 2023. 2023-05-31T09:29+0000 2023-05-31T09:29+0000 2023-05-31T09:29+0000 russia russia russian federation bullet ban /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/103877/48/1038774820_0:100:1921:1180_1920x0_80_0_0_64d4a43fcbb8544ddba1e703ae6749fb.jpg According to the government's decree, the ban does not cover export of bullets and casings that are necessary for the Russian military."The measure <...> does not apply to goods: <...> exported from the territory of the Russian Federation to support the activities of units of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, other troops, military formations and bodies <...> located in foreign states," the document says.The government prepared this resolution in accordance with the presidential decree on special economic measures. It emphasizes that it is aimed at protecting national interests. Vladimir Putin signed the decree "On the use of special economic measures in the sphere of foreign economic activity to ensure security of the Russian Federation" on 8 March. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230507/russia-returns-to-top-10-worlds-largest-economies-first-since-2014-1110160735.html russia russian federation Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International bans export of bullets, export of bullets and casings https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/russian-foreign-minister-lavrov-holds-press-conference-in-mozambique-1110812336.html Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov Holds Press Conference in Mozambique Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov Holds Press Conference in Mozambique Sputnik is live as Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov holds a press conference following bilateral talks with Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi in Maputo, Mozambique. 2023-05-31T10:03+0000 2023-05-31T10:03+0000 2023-05-31T10:03+0000 africa sergey lavrov mozambique russia brics /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/04/06/1109219012_0:0:2928:1648_1920x0_80_0_0_7968f69a6aea2ce24ab8009214df6a49.jpg Sputnik comes live as Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov holds a press conference after talks with Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi in Maputo.Lavrov and Nyusi have discussed a wide range of shared interests and topics concerning their international standing.Mozambique is the third country of Lavrov's African tour. Earlier this week, Russia's top diplomat visited Kenya and Burundi. After Mozambique, Lavrov will travel to South Africa, where he will take part in the BRICS foreign ministers' meeting.Follow Sputnik's Live Feed to Find Out More! africa mozambique russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov Holds Press Conference in Mozambique Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov Holds Press Conference in Mozambique 2023-05-31T10:03+0000 true PT80M54S 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russian foreign minister sergey lavrov, bilateral talks, mozambican president filipe nyusi https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/russian-foreign-ministry-calls-vile-wests-position-on-uav-attacks-against-moscow-1110810818.html Russian Foreign Ministry Calls Vile West's Position on UAV Attacks Against Moscow Russian Foreign Ministry Calls Vile West's Position on UAV Attacks Against Moscow The position of Western countries on the drone attacks on Moscow is "absolutely vile," Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday, adding that the West comments only on what it wants to comment. 2023-05-31T06:04+0000 2023-05-31T06:04+0000 2023-05-31T06:04+0000 russia foreign ministry russian defense ministry moscow region moscow ukraine dmitry peskov ukrainian drone attacks on russia /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/08/01/1097987754_0:0:3314:1864_1920x0_80_0_0_6fed9bb091cdee1f2c1966c274bd50ab.jpg "This is, of course, an absolutely vile position. There is no other word, no definition: they [Western countries] see and comment only on what is beneficial to them. And this is propaganda," Zakharova told Radio Sputnik.The Russian Defense Ministry said Ukraine on Tuesday launched a terrorist drone attack on Moscow. It said eight aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) were involved: five were shot down from an anti-aircraft gun system in the Moscow Region, three were suppressed by electronic warfare and deviated from their intended targets.Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, commenting on the attack, said it was Kiev's response to Russia's effective strikes on Sunday on one of Ukraine's decision-making centers.Moscow Region Governor Andrey Vorobyov said that several drones had been shot down while approaching Moscow. The Russian capital's mayor, Sergey Sobyanin, said several buildings had been slightly damaged by the drone attack. Nobody was seriously injured, he added. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230530/several-buildings-in-moscow-slightly-damaged-after-drone-attack---mayor-1110785693.html moscow region moscow ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russian foreign ministry, western countries, drone attacks on moscow https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/shelling-of-poultry-farm-in-lpr-kills-4-injures-16-people-1110808403.html Five Killed, 19 Injured in Ukrainian Shelling of LPR Five Killed, 19 Injured in Ukrainian Shelling of LPR Four people have been killed and another 16 have been injured in a shelling of a poultry farm in the village of Karpaty in the Lugansk People's Republic (LPR), the LPR office in the Joint Center for Control and Coordination of issues related to Ukraine's war crimes (JCCC) said on Wednesday. 2023-05-31T04:28+0000 2023-05-31T04:28+0000 2023-05-31T09:12+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine lugansk joint center for control and coordination (jccc) lpr ukraine /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/1f/1110813419_0:176:3015:1871_1920x0_80_0_0_14ee13fcdcda6378333f3575cb8ed0e6.jpg Earlier on Wednesday, the number of dead and injured was reported at 4 and 16 respectively. "On the night of May 31, 2023, the Ukrainian armed formations shelled a poultry farm in the village of Karpaty (the Perevalsk district, the LPR). According to preliminary information, four construction workers were killed and 16 people were injured," the office said on Telegram, adding that the building of the farm was damaged.The Ukrainian forces fired 4 rockets from HIMARS multiple rocket launchers toward the village, the JCCC added. Earlier, the Ukrainian armed forces targeted a temporary accommodation center for residents of the Shebekinsky district in Russias Belgorod region. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230515/ukraine-fired-3-storm-shadow-15-himars-missiles-at-lpr-in-past-week-1110363223.html lugansk ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International lugansk people's republic, shelling, village of karpaty, ukraine's war crimes https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/state-department-wont-say-if-its-helping-free-american-jailed-for-criticizing-ukraine-1110806593.html State Department Wont Say If Its Helping Free American Jailed for Criticizing Ukraine State Department Wont Say If Its Helping Free American Jailed for Criticizing Ukraine The US State Department is refusing to say if its willing to negotiate with the Ukrainian regime for the release of a US citizen facing up to eight years in prison for allegedly justifying Russias special military operation. 2023-05-31T02:01+0000 2023-05-31T02:01+0000 2023-05-31T01:56+0000 world us state department ukraine arrest us citizen marjorie taylor greene ted lieu matthew miller /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/0c/08/1105176360_0:0:3073:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_039fec54da894c61a95ff832c0ec29e3.jpg The US State Department is refusing to say if its willing to negotiate with the Ukrainian regime for the release of a US citizen facing up to eight years in prison for allegedly justifying Russias special military operation.Gonzalo Lira, a popular Chilean-American YouTube commentator based in Kharkov, was known to make videos highly critical of the Zelensky regime, which has consolidated control of the country over the past year and a half by enacting draconian laws which effectively banned opposition media and political parties.On Thursday, when reporter Liam Cosgrove asked how the State Department feels about our allies detaining US citizens for speech abroad, agency spokesperson Matthew Miller said simply that in general were aware of the report.But when he was asked point-blank if the State Department was working to get [Lira] released, the spokesperson refused to answer, telling the journalist: Im gonna leave my comments where I just left them.Cosgrove previously spoke with US Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA), who said he was unaware of Liras plight but said American citizens should have the ability to express their thoughts and views. The California lawmaker said he certainly would urge our State Department to engage their authorities.US Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene later told the same reporter its a real problem that the Ukrainian regime refuses to respect the speech of American citizens while taking US taxpayer money. America is funding and providing weapons, equipment for the defense of their country. But the Ukrainian government is not going to defend any Americans freedom of speech. And thats a real problem. And thats something that everyone should care about, she said. https://sputnikglobe.com/20220423/gonzalo-lira-case-why-does-us-keep-silent-on-ukrainian-spooks-intimidating-american-journo-1094996973.html ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Wyatt Reed Wyatt Reed News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Wyatt Reed us state department, ukraine, gonzalo lira, arrest, ukraine criticism https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/swedish-tv-goes-full-woke-with-series-blackwashing-nations-historical-figures-1110810628.html Swedish TV Goes 'Full Woke' With Series 'Blackwashing' Nation's Historical Figures Swedish TV Goes 'Full Woke' With Series 'Blackwashing' Nation's Historical Figures Historical whites played by non-whites has become a trend in recent years, not least in the UK and the US, with streaming giant Netflix becoming one of its prime examples. 2023-05-31T07:14+0000 2023-05-31T07:14+0000 2023-05-31T07:43+0000 beyond politics europe jeff ahl sweden svt egypt woke political correctness racism history /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/105741/67/1057416771_0:0:3265:1836_1920x0_80_0_0_7f1a7ed9a1a4fb47669de852ac7fd33b.jpg "The History of Sweden," a new project by Sweden's national broadcaster SVT, has sparked some massive outrage with its choice of actors reflecting its unrelenting quest for diversity even before the launch.SVT itself notably described the production, out this autumn, as its biggest history investment ever. The series, which spans from the Ice Age to the present day, has taken three years to make. About 300 historians and experts are said to have been involved in the project.However, from the program's first tidbits, it appears that early Swedes are being played by Blacks and other non-European immigrants, something that didn't go unnoticed on social media.Among other things, the clip showed a group of early Nordic hunters lying in wait for their prey played by Africans.This choice of actors triggered a barrage of criticism on social media."This fall, it's time for SVT's major investment, "The History of Sweden." The series has taken three years to produce, and it involved 300 historians and experts." Just look, here's the first two scenes," a user wrote, highlighting the screenshots of actors with a clearly non-Nordic appearance."Falsifying history is in full swing. This cultural Marxist poison must be purged from our 'universities' which have turned into propaganda institutions, rather than serious sites of learning," Jeff Ahl of the national-conservative Alternative for Sweden party tweeted."Wondering how the Netflix-like new history series on SVT will be?" another one wrote, taking a swipe against the streaming giant with a penchant for political correctness taken beyond limits.Having historical Europeans played by non-Europeans has become a trend in recent years, especially in the UK and the US. Modern films such as "Mary Queen of Scots" had black and Asian actors play 16th century Scottish and English historical figures and Anne Boleyn had a black actress play the main role in Channel 5's series, bizarrely stirring a debate on whether the historic personalities actually were black. Conversely, having a white actor play a person of color would be considered outrageous and borderline racist, sowing doubt in the audience about the double standards in 'woke' ethics.Among others, Cleopatra played by a black actress in the Netflix TV series "Queen Cleopatra" has, among other things, whipped up a major furor in Egypt. Incidentally, the series later appeared to have the worst audience score in TV history, garnering a measly 1%. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230403/woke-incited-segregation-rears-ugly-head-swedish-student-club-slammed-for-non-white-only-event-1109063598.html sweden egypt Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Igor Kuznetsov Igor Kuznetsov News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Igor Kuznetsov swedish broadcaster svt, political correctness, woke mentality, history series, white actors, non-white actors, accusations of racism https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/the-us-keeps-saying-the-quiet-part-out-loud-1110805399.html The US Keeps Saying the Quiet Part Out Loud The US Keeps Saying the Quiet Part Out Loud On todays episode of The Backstory, host Lee Stranahan discussed current events including Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan winning his re-election, and the EU threatening Twitter with a ban. 2023-05-31T04:14+0000 2023-05-31T04:14+0000 2023-05-31T09:44+0000 the backstory radio washington turkiye recep tayyip erdogan european union (eu) twitter /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/1e/1110805241_0:0:1920:1080_1920x0_80_0_0_a53d85d62360519de6f44b9cfd3a9e28.png The U.S. Keeps Saying the Quiet Part Out Loud On todays episode of The Backstory, host Lee Stranahan discussed current events including Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan winning his re-election, and the EU threatening Twitter with a ban. Sonja Van Den Ende - Independent Journalist, Writer | Putin has to be Reserved, Drones in Moscow, and US Politicians Want Direct Conflict with RussiaCarmine Sabia - Writer and Editor at Large at SabiaReport.com | The Last Generation, The Debt Ceiling, and Nevada Politicians Debate Trans Rights for Kids In the first hour, Lee spoke with Sonja Van Den Ende about Russia striking Kiev, Russian People upset with Ukraine's terrorism in Moscow, and the origins of these drones. Sonja spoke about the terror groups in Belgorod and Putin addressing the public. Sonja discussed the terror attack in Moscow and US politicians delighted with the possibility of Russian deaths. In the second hour, Lee spoke with Carmine Sabia about the debt ceiling deal struck by Speaker McCarthy, the Pentagon budget, and Nevada politics. Carmine commented on the debt deal proposed by Speaker Kevin McCarthy and the establishment Republicans in Congress. Carmine talked about the beginning of pride month and the continued push of trans ideology in public schools.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comThe views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik. washington turkiye Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Lee Stranahan https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125222_0:0:293:292_100x100_80_0_0_a8bc846f559660e5bf7574f8a9608a1d.png Lee Stranahan https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125222_0:0:293:292_100x100_80_0_0_a8bc846f559660e5bf7574f8a9608a1d.png News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Lee Stranahan https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e5/02/13/1082125222_0:0:293:292_100x100_80_0_0_a8bc846f559660e5bf7574f8a9608a1d.png the backstory, turkish elections 2023 results, drone attack in moscow, debt ceiling problem, ukraine's terrorism in moscow, push of trans ideology in public schools https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/uae-withdraws-from-american-led-naval-coalition-dealing-blow-to-us-military-prestige-1110826830.html UAE Withdraws From American-Led Naval Coalition, Dealing Blow to US Military Prestige UAE Withdraws From American-Led Naval Coalition, Dealing Blow to US Military Prestige The United Arab Emirates discontinued its participation in a US military-led naval coalition in recent months, the countrys foreign ministry revealed Wednesday. 2023-05-31T22:53+0000 2023-05-31T22:53+0000 2023-06-01T04:36+0000 uae iran abu dhabi united arab emirates coalition naval forces us military military /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107702/53/1077025382_0:141:3139:1907_1920x0_80_0_0_8597b8016c90bae955bb83f31af2f395.jpg The United Arab Emirates discontinued its participation in a US military-led naval coalition in recent months, the countrys foreign ministry revealed Wednesday.The announced withdrawal from the 38-nation task force came in a statement which rejected a recent Western media report claiming UAE officials are privately expressing frustration with their US counterparts over recent seizures of oil tankers in the Persian Gulf by Iranian forces.The UAE has rejected the mischaracterization, in recent press reports, of US-UAE conversations regarding maritime security, the UAEs official news agency wrote Wednesday.The foreign ministry stressed that the UAE remains committed to responsibly ensuring the safety of navigation in its seas, in accordance with international law, the report concluded.American officials reportedly insisted, however, that the Gulf nation hasnt officially withdrawn from the US-helmed maritime task force. Instead, a spokesman for the US Navys Fifth Fleet in Bahrain is claiming the UAE withdrew their participation for the moment in the task forces but not their overall membership.Western media has echoed that assertion, with one major British outlet pointing to the fact that the CMFs official website still lists the UAE as a member nation as proof that Abu Dhabi has not left the CMF.Last month, Iran appointed a new envoy to the UAE, after having gone seven years without appointing an ambassador to the country. https://sputnikglobe.com/20191125/uae-to-house-european-led-naval-coalition-in-the-gulf-get-missile-systems-upgrade-from-france-1077397850.html uae iran abu dhabi united arab emirates Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Wyatt Reed Wyatt Reed News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Wyatt Reed united arab emirates, uae, combined maritime forces, diplomatic overtures, emirati foreign ministry, us navy's fifth fleet in bahrain, https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/us-gives-ukraine-kind-of-license-for-war-against-russia---antonov-1110808829.html US Gives Ukraine 'Kind of License' to Continue War Against Russia - Antonov US Gives Ukraine 'Kind of License' to Continue War Against Russia - Antonov The United States is giving Ukraine "a kind of license" to continue clashes with Russia by publicly ignoring the recent drone attacks on Moscow, Russian Ambassador to Washington Anatoly Antonov said. 2023-05-31T04:51+0000 2023-05-31T04:51+0000 2023-05-31T06:28+0000 ukraine moscow us attack drone attack ukrainian drone attacks on russia world /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/04/16/1109759783_0:0:3071:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_9c1a071c8cd151713879e3ce8374f44e.jpg "The only thing that pseudo-politicians in Ukraine take into account is the position of the West, led by the United States. Silence and ignoring the atrocities by the thugs with yellow-blue chevrons is a kind of license for the Nazis to continue their futile confrontation with the Russian Armed Forces," Antonov told reporters. He said Washington's statements about the recent drone attack on Moscow actually encourage terrorists. "And then they immediately switch to a media attack against our country. So really, doesnt the administration understand that no one believes their slogans about non-support of Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory?! Especially, when these words are pronounced somehow bashfully and hesitantly," he said.Earlier, the Russian Defense Ministry said that Ukraine attacked the Russian capital with eight unmanned aerial vehicles, all drones were shot down. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230530/russian-defense-ministrys-statement-on-moscow-drone-attacks-1110788627.html ukraine moscow Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International united states, war against russia, drone attacks https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/west-must-provide-ukraine-with-tangible-credible-security-guarantees---macron-1110819664.html West Must Provide Ukraine With Tangible, Credible Security Guarantees - Macron West Must Provide Ukraine With Tangible, Credible Security Guarantees - Macron The western countries should provide Ukraine with "tangible and reliable" security guarantees, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday. 2023-05-31T13:18+0000 2023-05-31T13:18+0000 2023-05-31T13:18+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukraine france paris emmanuel macron /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/02/1c/1107863570_0:0:2855:1606_1920x0_80_0_0_903ef6b28588c4857732ccddf59c90a7.jpg "We are massively arming Ukraine, but we do not include it in any strategic dialogue. We must provide Ukraine with tangible and reliable security guarantees," Macron said at a session of the Globsec 2023 Bratislava Forum.Earlier, the French Foreign Ministry said that France was ready to conclude agreements with Ukraine on providing it with security guarantees together with NATO partners. Paris will continue discussions together with its partners on the best form of support for Ukraine in all sectors of the economy in the long term, the ministry added.On May 15, Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced in a joint statement that France would train and equip several battalions with dozens of armored vehicles and light tanks, including AMX-10RCs. In addition, Paris said it would be focusing its efforts on supporting Ukraine's air defense capabilities.Western countries have ramped up their military support for Ukraine after Russia launched a special military operation, by providing various types of weapons to Kiev. The Kremlin has repeatedly warned against further escalation leading to direct NATO involvement in the conflict. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230422/lack-of-arms-start-of-ukraines-counteroffensive-reportedly-postponed-indefinitely-1109753863.html ukraine france paris Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International security guarantees, ukraine, french president emmanuel macron https://sputnikglobe.com/20230531/white-house-us-does-not-encourage-attacks-on-russia-1110818760.html White House: US 'Does Not Encourage Attacks on Russia' White House: US 'Does Not Encourage Attacks on Russia' The United States does not encourage Ukraine to attack Russia and does not want to see the military conflict escalate, White House Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby said on Wednesday, following the recent drone attacks on Moscow. 2023-05-31T12:50+0000 2023-05-31T12:50+0000 2023-05-31T12:54+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine john kirby russia ukraine us drone russian defense ministry white house /html/head/meta[@name='og:title']/@content /html/head/meta[@name='og:description']/@content https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/05/09/1110211152_0:278:2653:1770_1920x0_80_0_0_fdde1c596abf5ab7924a76d780a09d85.jpg "We do not want to encourage attacks inside Russia because we do not want to see the war escalate," Kirby said. At the same time that Kiev has the right to self-defense, he said. Kirby pointed out that it is up to the Ukrainians to decide what to do with US-made weapons they are receiving. The Russian Defense Ministry said Ukraine on Tuesday launched a terrorist drone attack on Moscow. It said eight aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) were involved: five were shot down from an anti-aircraft gun system in the Moscow Region, three were suppressed by electronic warfare and deviated from their intended targets. Ukraine is going to launch an offensive in summer, and the United States is preparing new arms deliveries for Kiev, John Kirby said.Ukraine is planning to begin a counter-offensive in summer, and the US is preparing new arms deliveries to Kiev, he added.Western countries have been supplying Kiev with various types of weapon systems, including air defense missiles, multiple launch rocket systems, tanks, self-propelled artillery and anti-aircraft guns, since Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine over a year ago. The Kremlin has consistently warned against further arms deliveries to Kiev. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230530/several-buildings-in-moscow-slightly-damaged-after-drone-attack---mayor-1110785693.html russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2023 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International united states, drone attacks on moscow, conflict escalate, white house Pepsi North America Cup eliminations are on the horizon, and many of the million-dollar races top prospects will be in competition on Saturday night (June 3) at Woodbine Mohawk Park, which will also attract older horses for other stakes preliminaries. The Somebeachsomewhere Stakes drew three $75,000 divisions with 23 entrants total. They go as Race 3, Race 7 and Race 9 on the 11-race card. Division one pins Tan Micallefs upstart Control The Moment gelding No Control against seven rivals. Tyler Jones has the drive from Post 2 behind the winner of the Ontario Spring Series and the winner of six races from seven starts. Metro Pace third-place finisher Ace Of Aces starts from Post 8 against No Control in a field which also includes Pennsylvania Sire Stakes frosh champ Fulton, who will have Dexter Dunn at the reins for conditioner Linda Toscano from Post 6. Governors Cup breakout El Rey will make his second start of his sophomore campaign in the second division following a runner-up finish at The Meadowlands on May 20. Scott Zeron steers the Tony Alagna trainee from Post 2 in a field which also features freshman Pennsylvania Sires Stakes runner-up Annapolis Hanover from Post 6 with David Miller in the bike, Nancy Takters developing gelding Ants Marching from Post 4 with Yannick Gingras driving and freshman Ontario Sires Stakes finalist Write Me A Rose, who enters off a 1:51.2 victory in the $136,800 Ontario SBOA Stakes on May 20. Dan Patch and O'Brien Award winner Stockade Seelster will try to build off a second-place finish in the SBOA Stakes when he starts from Post 4 in the third Somebeachsomewhere division. Jody Jamieson retains the drive on the Dr. Ian Moore pupil who sits under $50,000 from millionaire status. Moment Is Here, a Bob McIntosh pupil starting from Post 5, will also look to build upon a 1:49 annihilation of overnight company at Mohawk last Saturday. Leading driver James MacDonald will stay in the bike. Saturday night will also open the Graduate Series for both pacing and trotting four-year-olds, with two divisions on the pace and one on the trot. In the $99,750 trot division of the Graduate Series, Ake Svanstedt mare Jiggy Jog S will spar with five male rivals, including Canadian Trotting Classic winner Slay and Hambletonian finalist last year Looks Like Moni. Dexter Dunn stays in the bike on Jiggy Jog S and will start from Post 2. Juravinski Memorial Cup champ Fourever Boy lands Post 4 in the first division of the Graduate Pace. The Tim Twaddle trainee will compete against seven rivals including Post 2 starter Stonebridge Helios, who has moved to the Ake Svanstedt stable for his four-year-old season. Division two for the Graduate pacers gathers a strong contingent including Messenger Pace winner Pleaseletmeknow from Post 1, third-place finisher in last years North America Cup Frozen Hanover from Post 2, Ontario Graduate Series champ Cold Creek Queso from Post 3 and Juravinski Memorial elimination winner Birthday from Post 5. A field of seven goes postward. The second leg of the Miss Versatility Series also goes on Saturday. Mark Etsells darling Adare Castle scores from Post 7 against a group which features quirky speedster Warrawee Xenia from Post 1, Indiana star M Ms Dream from Post 2 as she makes her debut for trainer Ron Burke and Elegantimage winner Raised By Lindy from Post 4. Saturdays card also features a $32,000 Fillies and Mares Preferred Pace and a $48,000 Free For All Handicap Pace as eliminations loom for the Milton Pace and invitations ready for handing out for the Mohawk Gold Cup. The Fillies and Mares Preferred goes as Race 1 and the Free For All Handicap Pace will be Race 10. To view Saturdays harness racing entries, click one of the following links: Woodbine Mohawk Park -- Saturday Entries || Saturday Program Pages (courtesy TrackIT). Woodbine Mohawk Parks Race Office would like to inform all horsepeople of the schedule scenarios for this weekends qualifiers. With two-year-old qualifiers beginning this weekend, Woodbine Mohawk Park will monitor the number of entries to determine if two days of qualifiers are needed. The potential schedules are listed below: Should the number of entries require only one day, all qualifiers will be held on Friday. Should the number of entries require two days, regular qualifiers will be held on Friday and two-year-old qualifiers will be held on Saturday. Each qualifying session begins at 10 a.m. The entry box for this weekends qualifiers closes Thursday morning at 10:30 a.m. Horsepeople are reminded that entries for qualifiers are to be submitted through Standardbred Canadas online entry system. (Woodbine) After hearing testimony over the course of the last week, a Scotts Bluff County District Court jury convicted a Scottsbluff man in the stabbing death of a 23-year-old man Thursday, May 25. The trial of Gregory Moore, 57, began Monday and testimony concluded Thursday morning in the case. Charges against Moore stemmed from the Nov. 25, 2020, stabbing death of Fernando Camacho-McBride. The jury returned a verdict after deliberating for about an hour. The jury, comprised entirely of women, found Moore guilty of the charges of second-degree murder, a Class IB felony, and use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony, a Class II felony. As the foreperson of a Scotts Bluff County District Court jury read the verdict, Camacho-McBrides mother, Semalee McBride, grasped the hand of her husband, Todd, tightly and started crying. As the jury left the courtroom, she and her husband hugged tightly, while she sobbed. Later, she hugged a detective in the case as Semalee and Todd, joined by family, gave thanks for the verdict. Semalee sat through the trial each day, mostly by herself, because her husband, Todd, had been unable to attend. Hed been subpoenaed as a defense witness for Moore, called largely because of comments that hed made to police officers investigating the case. That testimony lasted just 10 minutes, something Todd McBride lamented as he thought about being unable to sit next to his wife during the trial this week. Later, recounting the things that people had told the family about their son since he was killed, Todd McBride talked about how people said he would do anything for his friends and family. They remembered his laugh, his smile and other fond things about him. Everyone says he gave the best hugs, Todd McBride said, describing the large man enveloping people in big hugs. The McBrides adopted Camacho-McBride after he had been removed from his biological parents home at just 5 years old. He and his brother were fostered by the McBrides before they adopted him. The couple adopted nine other children. During closing arguments, Kelly Breen, of the Nebraska Commission on Public Advocacy, regularly referred to Camacho-McBride as a drug addict and a drug abuser. He argued that Moore had stabbed Camacho-McBride in self-defense. He made claims that Camacho-McBride had been violent, making inferences from tests taken during his autopsy that showed that he had significant quantities of methamphetamine in his blood. He pointed to statements on that report that persons with quantities of methamphetamine in their system may exhibit violent behavior to describe Camacho-McBride as having been the aggressor in a fight with Moore. He said there was no evidence that Moore intended to kill Camacho-McBride, but that his actions had been committed in the heat of a physical struggle between two very large men. Prosecutor Doug Warner, an assistant attorney general with the Nebraska Attorney Generals Office, explained the elements of the crimes of second-degree murder and the lesser offenses of voluntary manslaughter and involuntary manslaughter in his closing arguments. He cast doubt on Moores claims he had attacked in self-defense, telling the jury that in Moores initial statements to police he never made reference to needing to protect himself from Camacho-McBride or to having been assaulted. Instead, he referred to protecting his inventory and that illegal entry had been made into his home. Never once does he say, This guy threatened me. I was afraid for my life, he said. ...In his mind, hes justified because this is an illegal entry and people were looking at my inventory. Thats his motivation. Thats the reason that he gives. Blood throughout the apartment showed that Camacho-McBride had fought for his life, trying to get away from Moore as he repeatedly stabbed him, Warner said. Camacho-McBride suffered cuts all over his body on his arms, on his face having been sliced multiple times by the knife. Camacho-McBride died after having bled out after suffering stab wounds in his left upper arm, where the brachial artery is located. He had also been stabbed in the head, with the knife having penetrated so deeply that it hit bone and broke in half. He called Moore determined in his attack of Camacho-McBride, saying, He didnt give up. He continually went after him. At times, during the trial like at that moment, Semalee bristled. She wanted to react with anger as she heard some of the questions and the claims that Breen made about her son, but tried to keep her emotions in check so she could stay in the audience during the trial. However, despite the difficulties of sitting through the trial and hearing untruths about the young man, she said, she stayed steadfast. Someone needed to stand up for Camacho-McBride, she said, and that was her way to do that, to see that he got the justice he deserved. He was just 23 years old, Semalee said, saying he didnt get a chance to right his life. At 23, you think youre invincible. Though Camacho-McBride did have his troubles, starting to struggle in his teen years, he is remembered by his friends and family as a good kid and as a young man who was trying to do the right thing and work through his problems, Semalee said. He was known for being generous and had an affable nature. Asked what she wanted people to know about Camacho-McBride, she said, He was loved. Thursdays verdict came just less than two weeks before Camacho-McBride would have marked his 26th birthday. Sentencing in the case has been scheduled for July 21, 9 a.m. Judge Andrea Miller, who presided over the case, ordered a pre-sentence investigation. The second-degree murder charge is punishable by up to life in prison, with a minimum sentence of 20 years imprisonment. The weapons charge carries a penalty of one to 50 years imprisonment. A small group of personalities and companies control key parts of the economy in Idleb, according to Orient Net. A source within the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) militia, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared with Orient Net the following information: A small group of personalities and companies control the economic activities in the areas under the influence of HTS and its Salvation Government. However, all these entities are ultimately owned by a single individual. Various bodies and companies, operating under different names associated with HTS, manage the crossings, import of foodstuffs, fuel, cars, real estate, and the meat and poultry sector. The person directly responsible for these activities is Mustafa Qadeed, also known as Abu Abdul Rahman al-Zerba, hailing from the city of Darkoush in the western countryside of Idleb. His actions are monitored by another individual called al-Mughaira. In Idleb City, there exists a company called Zajel, which controls internal transport companies and primarily handles the transportation of food and the import and licensing of European cars, according to the source. Regarding the meat and poultry sector, the source reveals that the company overseeing this industry is called al-Yamamah Company, managed by the head of the Idleb City Council, Khairuddin al-Sayed Issa. Recently, another company has emerged claiming to be a competitor, but they are affiliated with the same side. In the hydrocarbon sector, the source explains that recently licensed companies supervise and finance the operations. One such company is Nama, specializes in financial services for citizens. The source adds that Nama sells shares to the public at a price of $100 per share. Profits from fuel and gas stations are distributed among shareholders, amounting to two or three percent per month. All these activities are under the supervision of a person known as Abu Abdul Rahman al-Zerba. According to another local source, the real estate, contracting, and construction sector is controlled by an individual known as Abu Ibrahim Salameh. He originates from Azaz in the northern countryside of Aleppo and holds a leadership position within the al-Nusra Front in Aleppo. The source also mentioned a figure referred to as Khalifa, described as an influential individual involved in import operations. His full name is Mahmoud Khalifa, and he is currently based in the village of al-Nayyara in eastern Aleppo. It is noteworthy that Khalifa maintains extensive influence in the northern countryside of Aleppo and Idleb regions. The source further explained that Khalifa frequently moves between liberated areas and regions controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Moreover, he has established connections with both the intelligence agencies of the Assad regime and Turkish territory, maintaining ties with the notorious drug gang leader, Bashar al-Assad. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. During a Security Council meeting on Tuesday called for the immediate, complete, and unconditional lifting of "illegal unilateral coercive measures", according to al-Watan. The Permanent Representative of Syria to the United Nations, Ambassador Bassam Sabbagh, emphasized that the United States expression of concern regarding the human suffering in Syria should not distract from the fact that its misguided policies are responsible for causing this suffering. During a Security Council meeting on Tuesday regarding humanitarian and political affairs in Syria, Sabbagh stated: By lecturing on respect for the Charter of the United Nations and international humanitarian law, Washington attempts to obscure its own violations of the Charter of the United Nations, the resolutions of this Council, and all the principles of international humanitarian law. The United States persists in violating Syrias sovereignty and territorial integrity, supporting separatist militias in northeastern Syria, and exploiting Syrian oil and resources. Furthermore, the United States and its Western allies persist in their provocative and hostile actions against Syria, aiming to interfere in its internal affairs and impede efforts towards achieving security and stability, he added. Sabbagh emphasized the immediate, complete, and unconditional lifting of illegal unilateral coercive measures that contravene international humanitarian law. He stressed that these measures pose a significant obstacle to humanitarian and development efforts. Additionally, Sabbagh pointed out that the so-called exceptions announced by the United States and the European Union in relation to these measures are merely propaganda and have not yielded any tangible results. He further criticized some Security Council members who not only impose sanctions but also openly declare their unwillingness to retreat from them. On the subject of political affairs, Sabbagh highlighted the significant achievement of the recent Arab summit held in Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that the summits importance lies in the affirmation of Arab countries supporting Syria in preserving its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and in overcoming the challenging circumstances it currently faces. Sabbagh further explained that as part of the Syrian governments efforts to regain full control over its territory and put an end to the presence of illegal foreign forces, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates participated in a quadripartite meeting in Moscow on the tenth of May. This meeting brought together the foreign ministers of Syria, Russia, Iran, and Turkey. The joint statement issued by the participating countries emphasized their commitment to Syrias sovereignty and territorial integrity, the fight against terrorism in all its forms, and the need for increased international assistance to support Syrias reconstruction. The statement also highlighted the importance of facilitating the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of Syrian refugees to their homeland. Sabbagh made it clear that Syria will not normalize relations with those who occupy its territory, and that a political solution can only be achieved by eradicating terrorism, ending interference in its internal affairs, and rejecting destructive initiatives put forth by certain countries known for obstructing the path to a solution. He emphasized that Syria rejects any attempts to revive colonial legacies that have long been relegated to the past. 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. An Israeli airstrike targeted a position belonging to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine in the Bekaa region, according to Athr Press. On Wednesday at dawn, an airstrike was carried out by the Israeli military, targeting a position belonging to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) in the Bekaa region, located on the Syrian-Lebanese border. Following the attack, the PFLP released a statement confirming the loss of five of its members. The statement emphasized that this operation is part of the Israeli militarys ongoing efforts to restore its eroding deterrence equation. It stated, The enemy is attempting to deceive us by expanding the scope of its aggression, in an endeavour to restore its deteriorating image of deterrence, which has been weakened due to the sacrifices and heroism displayed by our people, including the recent battle known as the Revenge of the Free.' Subsequently, certain Hebrew media outlets claimed that no air strike had taken place in the mentioned area. However, Anwar Raja, a member of the political bureau of the PFLP, affirmed in an interview with Athr Press that all tangible evidence supports the fact that Israeli warplanes were responsible for the incident at the Syrian-Lebanese border. Raja added, The targeting occurred within Lebanese territory, specifically in the Qusaya area in the Bekaa region along the Syrian-Lebanese border. This targeting incident occurs simultaneously with growing concerns within Israel regarding a potential multi-front escalation against occupied Palestine. These concerns have been amplified following the rocket attacks on occupied Palestine in April, originating from Syrian and Lebanese territories, as well as from within Palestine itself. In response to these events, the Director of Military Intelligence in the Israeli army once again commented, stating, The use of force in the north, in both Lebanon and Syria, has the potential to escalate into large-scale clashes. Additionally, the newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth highlighted that the Israeli army anticipates the next war to be a multifaceted confrontation, involving coordinated attacks conducted by numerous aircraft and cruise missiles. 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. Pedersen emphasized that concrete actions are needed alongside diplomatic efforts, according to al-Modon. There are currently no indications of the resumption of meetings of the Constitutional Committee, which is crucial for the Syrian-Syrian political track, Geir Pedersen, the UN Special Envoy to Syria, said He mentioned that the diplomatic activities in the region, such as the meetings of foreign ministers and the Arab Summit, could potentially transform the search for a political solution in Syria if utilized effectively. However, Pedersen emphasized that concrete actions are needed alongside these diplomatic efforts, considering the continued suffering of the Syrian people. He highlighted two essential conditions for progress: building trust on the ground and advancing the political track. Pedersen underscored the significance of restarting the work of the Constitutional Committee and identified it as one of his top priorities. He expressed his close collaboration with relevant authorities to overcome obstacles and resume meetings in Geneva. He emphasized that it is time for Syrians to engage in dialogue and discuss their future collectively within the framework of the Constitutional Committee. Pedersen reiterated his commitment to facilitating a political solution led and owned by Syrians to meet their aspirations. Regarding refugees, Pedersen stressed the importance of safe and voluntary returns. He mentioned that a significant number of refugees in neighbouring countries hope to return within the next five years, with a smaller portion aiming for return within the next 12 months. However, concerns remain regarding basic services, military obligations, and fear of arrest, detention, harassment, and reprisals. Addressing the issue of detainees, Pedersen highlighted its significance in advancing progress in Syria. He stated that tangible steps on this matter are necessary for building genuine trust. He called upon all parties in Syria to take concrete and effective actions. Pedersen also urged Member States to support the UNs efforts in establishing an institution dedicated to the search for missing persons, as recommended by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Syria unequivocally denounces the recent drone attack carried out by the Ukrainian regime on Moscow, according to al-Baath. Syria unequivocally denounces the recent drone attack carried out by the Ukrainian regime on Moscow. Syria expresses its confidence in Russias ability to address and prevent such criminal assaults, safeguarding the sanctity and territorial integrity of the Russian nation. The Syrian Arab Republic condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the drone attack launched by the Ukrainian regime against Moscow. This act represents a significant escalation in the Atlantic aggression against the Russian Federation, posing a grave threat to international security and stability, stated a source from the Foreign and Expatriates Ministry. The source further affirmed, Syria stands in complete solidarity with the Russian Federation, and we have full faith in their capability to counter these brazen criminal attacks perpetrated by the Kyiv regime. We are confident that Russia will take all necessary measures to protect the integrity of its lands and ensure the safety of its citizens. In the early hours of Tuesday, the Russian capital came under a drone assault. The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed that Kyiv attempted to attack Moscow using eight drones, all of which were successfully neutralized by Russian air defences. 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. A commander from a Kurdish-led force and Syrian regime personnel were killed earlier this week in attacks in Syria blamed on the Islamic State (IS) group. Mustafa Alou, a commander in the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) commando unit, was shot dead late on Monday at his home in the village of Hazima, north of the city of Raqqa, by unknown assailants, local sources told The New Arabs Arabic-language sister site. IS was accused of being behind the killing, Al-Araby Al-Jadeed reported. Alous assassination came days after other deadly attacks targeted SDF members and their convoys. The Kurdish-led, US-backed group spearheaded the fight against IS extremists in 2019 and drove them out of the large swathes of territory they controlled for years in eastern Syria. But the militant groups sleeper cells are spread out in the Syrian desert continue to carry out hit-and-run attacks. At dawn on Tuesday, sources close to Syrian opposition groups told Al-Araby Al-Jadeed that IS militants carried out a large-scale attack on three militant checkpoints belonging to Syrian regime forces and Russian-backed militias. Two personnel were killed and three others were injured in that attack, which took place in the Raqqa governorate, on a road linking the town of Al-Resafa and the Tabqa Airbase. Reports said Russian forces have begun bringing in more reinforcements and deploying in different points of the neighbouring Deir Ezzor governorate, where IS activity has increased recently. UN says new dynamic on Syria could create much-needed momentum for progress The Arab News covers the UN Security Council special meeting on Syria. The article discusses the recent diplomatic moves in Syria and emphasizes the need for real action to match these developments. Geir Pedersen, the UN special envoy for Syria, highlights the ongoing suffering of the Syrian people and states that while they have observed diplomatic progress, they have yet to see any improvement in their lives. Pedersen emphasizes the importance of confidence-building measures on the ground and the resumption of the political process to signal that the current opportunity has been seized. The article recalls recent dialogues with the Syrian government in Amman, Jeddah, and Moscow, focusing on key issues such as the humanitarian situation, safe access to aid delivery, the return of refugees, reconstruction, and countering terrorist groups. These issues align with UN Resolution 2254 and present an opportunity to move forward if addressed incrementally. Pedersen believes that addressing these concerns could create much-needed momentum. The report also mentions the Arab Leagues decision to welcome Syrias government back into its fold, ending over a decade of exile. Pedersen acknowledges the dangers of the status quo and emphasizes the importance of addressing the concerns of the displaced, ensuring their safe and dignified return that takes into account their security and economic fears. The fate of missing people and detainees in Syrian prisons is also highlighted as a core issue for moving forward, and Pedersen urges support for the establishment of an institution dedicated to the search for missing Syrians. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs notes that over 70 percent of Syrias population is in need of humanitarian assistance, with 15.3 million people experiencing some degree of humanitarian stress. The recent earthquakes have worsened the situation, displacing hundreds of thousands of people and depriving many of basic services and livelihoods. The article calls for greater solidarity and increased humanitarian funding to prioritize the urgent needs of the Syrian people. Overall, the report emphasizes the need for tangible action to accompany recent diplomatic progress in Syria and highlights key issues such as the humanitarian situation, the return of refugees, and the fate of missing individuals and detainees. It underlines the potential of addressing these concerns to create momentum and improve the lives of the Syrian people. Syrian government blocked UN earthquake response in opposition areas An investigation by Syrian Investigative Reporting for Accountability Journalism (Siraj) and Middle East Eye (MEE) reveals that the Syrian government obstructed rescue efforts in the countrys northwest following the devastating earthquake in February. The government did not ask for international emergency response teams to be deployed to opposition-held areas, effectively blocking the rescue efforts. The report also accuses UN officials of negligence for failing to utilize protocols that would have allowed them to send in rescue teams on humanitarian grounds without the governments consent. The investigation highlights that the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has an international emergency response system capable of deploying search and rescue teams anywhere in the world. However, UN guidelines allow for rescue efforts to be initiated by a UN resident coordinator in the affected country, even without the governments consent, in certain circumstances such as complex emergencies. The failure to coordinate the deployment of search and rescue teams into opposition-controlled areas falls short of UN guidelines. The UNs failure to respond quickly to the earthquake is criticized, and it is stated that the UNs hands were tied by bureaucracy. The report also questions why the UN did not deploy rescue teams through the established UN Security Council resolution permitting humanitarian aid to be sent into northwest Syria from Turkey. The lack of a timely international response in opposition-held Syria stands in contrast to the UNs response in southern Turkey, where search and rescue teams were deployed from 82 countries in support of the rescue efforts. Critics argue that the Syrian governments failure to request or facilitate the deployment of rescue teams to opposition-held territory may be in breach of principles of international humanitarian law. The report raises concerns about the UNs failure to send search and rescue teams and heavy-duty rescue equipment into opposition-held areas and calls for an internal investigation into the matter. Iranian militia launches military campaign in Syrias Deir-ez-Zor Iranian-backed militia announced on Tuesday the launching of a combing campaign of the eastern and southern countryside of the Deir-ez-Zor Governorate, eastern Syria, to pursue Islamic State (ISIS) sleeper cells, North Press reported. The Iranian-backed Liwa al-Quds, Liwa Fatemiyoun, and Abu al-Fadel al-Abbas faction launched the campaign due to the increase of ISIS attacks against their militants, a military source of Liwa al-Quds told North Press. The campaign will last for five days, according to the source. On the same day, residents of the town of al-Marashda, east of Deir-ez-Zor, found the bodies of two militants of Abu al-Fadel al-Abbas faction who were kidnapped two days ago by unknown people. A local source of Abu al-Fadel al-Abbas faction said that the residents found the bodies west of the town of Abu Kamal, in the eastern countryside of Deir-ez-Zor. The Iranian-backed militias and Syrian government forces control vast swathes of the Syrian Desert and the eastern countryside of Deir-ez-Zor, which witness increasing activity by ISIS sleeper cells and militants. Syrian Refugees and Demographic Ideology In an op-ed in Asharq al-Awsat, columnist Hazem Saghieh discussed how some Lebanese were busy publicly outbidding one another regarding the figures of the Syrian refugees in Lebanon. The article discusses the use of demographic ideology and the manipulation of population figures in political discourse. It highlights historical instances where population growth was portrayed as a threat and used to justify various ideologies and discriminatory practices. Saghieh mentions the theories of Thomas Malthus, who argued that population growth would lead to global famine unless drastic measures were taken to control it. However, as living conditions improved with the industrial revolution, Malthus theories were proven wrong. The article also mentions the concept of Social Darwinism, which applied Darwins theories of evolution to human society and justified social disparities, military expansion, and racism. The author points out that during this time, writers and novelists also propagated fears about population growth and the dangers of the masses. Saghieh emphasizes the impact of these ideologies on political discourse and the dehumanization of people when they are reduced to mere figures. Politicians have used inflated population figures to stoke fear and justify discriminatory policies. The author mentions examples from Algeria, Lebanon, and the Arab world, where population figures were manipulated for political purposes. The article concludes by highlighting that reducing people to numbers is not ethical or sound, as it devalues human life and perpetuates discrimination. The Syrian communities are particularly targeted in this regard. An explosive device targeting the car of Abdul Aziz Shodb detonated in the city of al-Kiswah, according to Baladi News. A commander in the regimes military security apparatus was killed on Tuesday evening when an explosive device, targeting his car, detonated in the city of al-Kiswah in the Damascus countryside. According to local sources, unknown individuals planted an explosive device in the car belonging to Abdul Aziz Shodb, a leader of the military security service. The incident occurred in the Mansoura neighbourhood of Kiswah, located in the southern countryside of Damascus, resulting in Shodbs unfortunate demise. Sources further revealed that Shodb, originally from the town of Zakia, held a prominent role as one of the key figures involved in regional reconciliation efforts. Earlier, on May 10th, Major Muhannad Ghandi Jadallah lost his life while four others sustained injuries in a separate incident. An explosive device, planted by unidentified assailants, detonated in a car near the Barzeh police station in the Damascus countryside. The car hailed from the Sweida governorate. On February 27th, Colonel Ibrahim Ali al-Muhammad, a member of the regime forces, tragically lost his life when an improvised explosive device detonated in his car. The incident occurred in the Daf al-Shawk neighbourhood, located in the capital city of Damascus. Additionally, two children who were present at the scene suffered injuries as a result of the attack. CENTRALIA The dense, white cloud of steam coming out of a dark green building here has been a constant part of the landscape for more than half a century. Now, the Lewis County town of about 19,000 is getting ready to bid farewell to the cloud source: Washingtons last coal-fired power plant, overlooked by Mount Rainier and sprawling hills sprinkled with wind turbines. The steam cloud will permanently fade when the power plant closes in 2025, per a 2011 agreement between the state and power generation company TransAlta, which since 2000 has owned and operated the 11,000-acre property that once housed a coal mine. The power plants closure, a step in Washingtons move to a fully green electricity grid, is likely to mark the end of the coal economy in Centralia and the beginning of a renewable energy hub. Companies are eyeing pilot plants for that property, aiming to replace the single largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the state and promising to offer new job opportunities to the power plant employees. The new technologies may provide a way for Centralia to remain a town of electricity generation, but in a greener way, and continue to fuel the states grid, said University of Washington professor of power and energy systems Daniel Kirschen. Continuing to have generation in Centralia is actually very useful, Kirschen said. Keeping that big grid stable is a difficult job. Growing interest Calgary, Alberta-based TransAlta has green energy contenders looking to set up shop in Centralia, changing the regions historically coal-focused energy generation into a hub for innovative energy technologies. Among the interested parties is Australia-based Fortescue Future Industries, founded by billionaire Andrew Forrest. FFI produces green hydrogen, a form of carbon-neutral energy generation, by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy. FFI already has an agreement with TransAlta to assess whether it could establish a green hydrogen-generation plant there. FFI declined to make executives available for an interview. The TransAlta property will also use First Modes hydrogen-powered trucks to help with reclamation work at the former mine. First Mode, a Seattle green transportation startup, has developed trucks that are three stories tall and double the size of TransAltas trucks, so they can carry more earth. First Modes trucks will begin operating early this summer. The decommissioning of the mine and then the upcoming decommissioning of the power station is not an insignificant impact to employment in the region, said Chris Voorhees, First Mode co-founder and chief products and technology officer. Were hoping that we can contribute in a positive way to the trend with new jobs in a new kind of area of expertise. Also eyeing the plant is Zap Energy, a fusion power startup that has signed a memorandum of understanding with TransAlta. Last year, the Seattle startup received a $1 million grant from the Centralia Coal Transition Energy Technology Board to assess the feasibility of a pilot plant, a process set to be completed later this year. Zap has plans to occupy a smaller, offline gas power plant next to the coal plant. Carbon-neutral fusion is known as the holy grail of energy production because it theoretically provides unlimited clean energy. The technology from Zap Energy relies on combining hydrogen, the lightest atom, which creates heat to power a steam cycle. Were still kind of on our first date, if you will, between the two companies, Zap Energy Vice President Ryan Umstattd said, referring to TransAlta and Zap. The widespread commercial adoption of fusion energy may be decades out, UWs Kirschen said. Zaps Umstattd said that the other companies interested in Centralia may provide a market opportunity for the fusion energy startup. Now youve got an option of not just putting electricity up onto the high-voltage transmission, Umstattd said, you just deliver electricity to a customer whos a couple hundred yards down the road so that they can use that clean electricity to make green hydrogen. Centralia has a geographic and structural advantage for companies interested in renewable energy generation. It sits strategically between Seattle and Portland and there is already infrastructure to send that energy into the grid. Creating such infrastructure is expensive, Kirschen said. In a release announcing FFIs plan to repurpose the plant, Joe Clark, the executive director of Centralia and Chehalis public transportation system Twin Transit, said green hydrogen can help decarbonize the regions public transit. It can also make the Interstate 5 corridor greener and provide distribution of hydrogen across the region, he said. Finding a replacement Washingtons largest utility provider, Puget Sound Energy, has a purchasing agreement with TransAlta to use electricity from the Centralia plant until it shuts down in 2025. Out of PSEs total electric load, 14.5% came from the TransAlta plant in 2022. Centralia produces enough energy to power about 300,000 homes annually. That number will decrease with time as PSE will purchase less energy from the TransAlta plant closer to its shutdown date, according to the agreement. PSE, like all utility companies in Washington, is in the process of decarbonizing its energy by 2045 under the states Clean Energy Transformation Act, signed into law in 2019 by Gov. Jay Inslee. The closure of the TransAlta plant will contribute to PSEs reduction in emissions in 2025, bringing its portfolio to 63% of clean energy, said John Mannetti, PSEs director of Strategic Energy Initiatives. The utility provider is still looking for replacements for the TransAlta plant. Mannetti said PSE is in talks with FFI to potentially use the energy generated there. Coal power is reliable when there arent enough natural resources to power solar and wind farms, Mannetti said. PSE is looking at options ranging from green hydrogen to nuclear power, as both are carbon-neutral and reliable regardless of the weather. The Clean Energy Transformation Act leads to other challenges for a fully renewable grid, UWs Kirschen said. The demand for more energy, such as for a growing fleet of electrical vehicles, will increase over time, and the infrastructure from solar and wind energy will also have to be more robust, he said. We may have to import it from other places, Kirschen said. Maybe the better place to build wind farms might be in Wyoming, so we would then import electricity from Wyoming. Replacing coal The former TransAlta coal mine, which was decommissioned in 2006, is in the process of reclamation after years of extraction, and it is still a source of seasonal employment. It has taken years to fill, grade, replant trees and dredge ponds that were once used to clean the coal. Because the soil gets unstable with rainwater, most of the work happens in the summer, said Mike Lydon, the mine manager who has worked there for 42 years. About half of the reclamation work has been completed since 2006, Lydon said. Elk have returned to the area. The Douglas fir trees that Lydons team planted are growing and shading the grass. Once the work is complete, Lydon said the area has the potential to become a conservation project where people could camp and hike, bringing tourism dollars to Lewis County and fueling Centralias downtown. Randy Krogseth, 71, worked at the mine for 43 years. He was among the crew that built the plant and started coal mining in the area. Because of his seniority, he remained at TransAlta after the mine shut down to work in reclamation. Krogseth said he thought there was not enough planning around what would replace the power plant when it goes fully offline in 2025. It just didnt need to be done yet, Krogseth said. Whats going to be in its place? It was poor timing. ... We were making a difference, I thought, in how we control the electricity for the people. National focus on energy transition The agreement to close the Centralia power plant happened 12 years before the Biden administration announced plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from coal-fired power plants across the U.S. this month. The administrations plans require coal-fired power plants to install costly carbon-capture systems, although 60% of all coal power-generation plants are already planning to close by 2040. TransAltas coal power plant is one of the cleanest in North America for emissions, according to the company. The steam comes out of a single tower that was specifically designed and built to curb emissions, said Chris DuPont, manager of operations at the plant. Compared with other sources of electricity in the state, coal has low output. Hydroelectric power is the largest source, followed by natural gas and nuclear power, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Still, the TransAlta power plant was the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the state in 2021, data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency showed. In nearby Chehalis, a PacifiCorp gas power plant was another top source of emissions in Washington in 2021, according to the EPA. A good living The work to retire the two-unit power plant has gone through stages. It reached its halfway point in 2020 when Unit 1, once a reliable source of energy for the state, went offline. In a building with tall structures and machines dating back to 1970, remnants of Unit 1 were still there in April. In a way, whats left looked like a decaying human heart after some of its parts were sold following the shutdown. Workers who witnessed the Unit 1 shutdown still recall that day. Turning Unit 1 off on the last day of 2020 was not a ceremonial event, said Mike Tomasheck, 63, who first worked at the coal mine right before graduating from high school in 1978. When the mine closed in 2006, Tomasheck returned a few years later to work on Unit 1 until he retired with the unit. It takes several hours for the unit to come down, Tomasheck said. Everybody that was there at the time continued to work, so there wasnt a mass exodus. About 550 people were let go when the mine closed, and 64 people were laid off when Unit 1 was shut down. Unit 2 is still in operation, running steadily and so loud anyone nearby must wear earplugs. An average of five trains a day arrive carrying coal from the Powder River Basin, one of the main suppliers of coal in an area that stretches through Wyoming and Montana. The roughly 115 workers left with Unit 2 are preparing for the end of the operation. Some employees retired; others changed industries or left the state to work in mines across the country. Only a few remained at the plant through the years. For some workers, the answer could be going out of state. That was the choice several miners made in 2006, including Chad Warnken, 50. For him, mining work is generational, as he followed in his dad and grandfathers path into the industry. Although he considered his TransAlta co-workers a big family, he left Lewis County to get a mining job. He moved to Montana and Arizona to work in mines. Warnken now lives in Waxhaw, S.C., and works at a gold mine. He said the Centralia plant brought economic development to the area. It was a good living form, and it helped everybody in the surrounding areas, Warnken said. It brought money to everything to help build, to make things better for people, to give em a good life where they can live without struggling. There is a tight-knit group of former workers that remained in the area. The TransAlta employees were a family, former miner Kathy Chastain said. Once every month, ex-employees in the region still get together to catch up over breakfast. Mine manager Lydon said he and a group of former employees plan motorcycle rides on weekends. Warnken said peoples connection to the job is still so strong, many would consider going back if they could. The sad thing is, I know 100% in my heart that if the mine would open back up, all those guys that were mad and hurt and felt left out broken by the mine wouldve gone back [with] open arms to make that place great again, Warnken said. After the 2011 agreement with the state, TransAlta created a $20 million fund to help transition its workforce to other fields, including green energy. As a result, the company has invested in local colleges and other resources around the region, TransAlta Vice President Mickey Dreher said. Similarly, FFI said its planned plant would keep jobs for the people working at the power plant. The region has additional resources to help with the transition, such as Pacific Mountain Workforce Development, which is a convener of regional workforce development efforts. PacMtn CEO William Westmoreland said in an interview that the interest of renewable energy companies in the region provides a unique opportunity for the workers there. A lot of folks in the coal sector have skills that are diminishing, [and] they have diminishing opportunities, but there are also a lot of those skills that are transferable, Westmoreland said. There are also free resources available through WorkSource, which helps connect laid-off workers to services including retraining programs and mental health resources. PacMtn oversees WorkSource services in Lewis County. At its peak, the Centralia power plant could power a city as large as Los Angeles, former miner Chastain said. But the glory days are gone. The number of former TransAlta employees has shrunk. Several have died. The ones remaining still keep the bond they built working together for so many years, she said. Like many of them, the power plant is ready to be retired, Chastain said. It needed to come offline because it was that old, its tired and old, Chastain said. That metal can only stretch for so long and it becomes a problem. SITKA, Alaska The Coast Guard was searching Monday for four people who went missing after a fishing charter vessel was found partially submerged near Sitka. Coast Guard vessels began searching Sunday night after receiving a call from Kingfisher Charters, a Sitka-based fishing charter company, reporting that a boat was overdue with five people onboard, said Petty Officer Ian Gray. Searchers located the vessel partially submerged near Low Island, 1 mile east of Shoals Point, Kruzof Island, Gray said. The vessel was last seen Sunday afternoon near Sitka. The Coast Guard recovered one deceased man, who was not wearing a life vest, Gray said. The region was experiencing 6-foot to 11-foot seas on Sunday, he said. A message left at Kingfisher Charters was not immediately returned. There are currently so many unknowns. We are thankful for the coordination efforts from several municipal agencies including the Sitka Fire Department and Good Samaritan vessels on scene, said Lt. Trevor Layman, Command Duty Officer. Were working quickly to locate the unaccounted-for individuals. As nationwide rates of fentanyl overdoses have grown into a public health crisis, experts have pointed to naloxone as a way to save lives. But years after Washington doubled down on efforts to get the medication into communities, the hunt for the drug remains often burdened with obstacles. The state is determined to ensure the medicine that reverses opioid overdoses is as accessible as possible, and those who study addiction and drugs agree community efforts have made a difference in availability in pharmacies, local clinics and by mail. Still, naloxone remains expensive for many with and without insurance, and distributors like pharmacies often place strict limits on how many doses they hand out in some cases, despite being shown a state policy meant to improve access. Meanwhile, last year marked King Countys deadliest year ever for fatal overdoses, including more than 700 involving fentanyl. As of last week, the county had already tallied more than 400 fentanyl deaths for 2023. Statewide trends are similar: Last year, about 65% of all drug deaths involved synthetic opioids, mainly fentanyl, totaling more than 1,700 overall, according to the University of Washingtons Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute. A lot of naloxone has been used to reverse overdoses, which is fantastic, and if we didnt have it, wed be in a much worse situation, said Alison Newman, a community drug-education specialist with UW Medicine who works with the institute. And I still think at this point, its not enough. The state issued a standing order in 2019 that allows all pharmacists to dispense naloxone without a prescription. However, a mix of more than 15 pharmacy locations in the Puget Sound region including Walgreens, Bartell Drugs, Safeway, QFC, Fred Meyer and others reported a range of distribution policies and copays when Seattle Times journalists stopped by this month. Under the order, anyone at risk of experiencing an opioid overdose or anyone who might need to help someone overdosing can ask for naloxone at a pharmacy. Proof of eligibility isnt required. At a CVS and Walgreens in Renton, pharmacists wouldnt provide anything unless customers were patients on file and could provide a name, identification and insurance information. A QFC and Walgreens in Everett required customers to fill out prescription forms. At a Rite Aid on Mercer Island, a pharmacy technician wasnt sure how to bill the kits. A pharmacy staffer at a Seattle Bartells on Rainier Avenue said they could only run one kit through insurance per person per day, even though the standing order allows those eligible to receive up to five kits. The states Apple Health insurance, or Medicaid, covers the drug for free, and some insurance plans include copays ranging from around $15 to $25, Times journalists found. But for those without insurance or with plans that dont pay for the full cost of a naloxone kit, charges can be as much as $130 per kit, said David Green, Seattles director of pharmacy operations for Safeway/Albertsons. The copays certainly can be an economic barrier, Green said. Its very difficult to get this to the homeless community or some people who are on the streets. Its still a public health issue we have to figure out. Naloxone was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1971, and is still the only medication on the market effective in reversing opioid-related overdoses, which can be caused by prescription pill, heroin and fentanyl use. The drug was originally only administered as an injection, but the easier-to-use Narcan nasal spray was approved as a prescription drug by the FDA in 2015. In March, the FDA took another major step in addressing the national public health crisis and greenlit over-the-counter Narcan nasal spray for nonprescription use. Last week, the FDA also endorsed Opvee, a new version of another medication that reverses overdoses called nalmefene. The prescription drug achieved similar recover results to Narcan in studies, but some medical experts have shared concerns about cost and potential side effects, according to The Associated Press. Public health advocates have celebrated the decision to further expand access to naloxone, but over-the-counter Narcan likely wont be available until this summer, while Opvee will likely launch in October at the earliest. Its not clear exactly when either will hit shelves, and questions also remain over cost and which insurance plans will cover it, Newman said. According to Emergent BioSolutions, Narcans manufacturer, kits will likely be available for about $50 each. However, Newman said additional store fees will likely be tacked on in retail markups. We dont know exactly how that will work, she said. According to the states standing order, which will remain in effect even after over-the-counter Narcan becomes available in pharmacies, those eligible can receive up to five kits. The kits include either two single-dose vials of naloxone hydrochloride injection solution with syringes, or two single-doses of naloxone hydrochloride nasal spray. No time frame is specified for how long someone has to wait before getting a refill. Despite barriers such as high copays and conflicting pharmacy policies, pharmacies throughout the state have reported a rise in naloxones popularity since the statewide order went into effect, Green said. At the regions Safeway pharmacies, staffers are actively dispensing naloxone every week, he added. Theres also been a steady increase in demand at QFC stores in the last few years, said Marci J. Reynolds, pharmacy practice coordinator of the statewide grocery store chain. Pharmacists have found a need to educate patients who use opioids for pain management and having naloxone on hand in case of emergency, Reynolds wrote in an email. While there isnt a federal standing order that authorizes access to naloxone, all 50 states have laws that allow individuals to obtain access, often through similar standing orders, according to SAFE Project, a nationwide nonprofit that promotes education and support around fatal drug overdoses. For those who cant afford a naloxone copay at a pharmacy, there are free and discounted options in Washington. For example, the states ArrayRx card, formerly the Washington Prescription Drug Program, helps lower the price of naloxone at pharmacies in Washington, Nevada and Oregon for people without prescription drug coverage, Emalie Huriaux, a health programs manager with the state Department of Health, wrote in an email. According to ArrayRx, card users can save up to 80% on medications without having to qualify under age or income restrictions. The state also provides free naloxone to certain organizations such as syringe, street outreach, jail release and housing programs, Huriaux said. In addition, Washingtonians can request free naloxone through the states mail-order program, though residents are asked to only put in one order per person per month. The programs supply is limited and intended to serve people who have no other way to access the drug, Huriaux added. In 2022, the state distributed about 30,000 kits to residents through the mail. Washingtons naloxone finder at StopOverdose.org, which Newman helps run, includes a map of sites throughout the state that offer free naloxone, including community organizations and hospital clinics with walk-in options. Dozens of locations, like the Peoples Harm Reduction Alliance and Kelly-Ross Pharmacy at The Polyclinic, provide helpful options, Newman said, but work remains around other forms of treatment and destigmatizing substance-use disorder in general. Naloxone is just this tiny piece it only saves someone for the 30 to 90 minutes its in effect, Newman said. Theres a lot more that we need to do to be helping support people who are at risk of overdosing. Thumbs up: Totem pole refurbishment We love seeing something old getting a new lease on life. So we were very glad to see the restored Lelooska totem pole moved into its new home last week. Obviously, the Port of Kalama gains a beautiful new addition. The 140-foot pole, which may be the tallest ever to be carved from a single tree, will now be on display as part of the new Mountain Timber Market. But its not just how it looks, but the care that has been put into its restoration that we really like. The pole had, unfortunately, been in disrepair for some time. Originally erected in the early 1960s, the pole had to be taken down in 2018 because testing had determined the wood had become dangerously decayed. Modern technology was able to repair its structural integrity, but that was just the first step. Repainting the pole was just as important. Its original artist, Chief Lelooska, has been dead since 1996, but thankfully, his family stepped up in his place. Knowing that the new painting was being done by Lelooskas brother, niece, family and friends shows a deep commitment to keeping the pole authentic. Heres to many years to come admiring the totem pole. Thumbs up: Mount St. Helens hikers If theres no road for you to take, sometimes you have to make your own. A team of Forest Service staff and volunteers set out last week to the Johnston Ridge Observatory to obtain records and equipment vital to its operations. But with a recent landslide blocking all access, a blockage that wont be cleared anytime soon, they would have to go on foot. Were sure it wasnt the easiest trip. The team roamed the unpowered building looking for anything they could carry out. The bulkiest technology will still need to be removed by helicopter, but with what the team retrieved, the Observatory can begin operating from the Coldwater Science and Learning Center. This will let them not only resume some of the educational opportunities offered at the observatory, but to continue their scientific work with minimal interruption. Thumbs down: Sea lion overpopulation The states plan to deal with the continued growth of sea lion populations near dams and other places where salmon congregate is a roaring success ... according to the state itself. When TDN reporters ask fishermen whether the program is working, the response is very different. They tell tales of the big marine mammals following their boats to chow down on salmon before the fish can be caught. And they dont see a lot of benefit from the states efforts. Part of this is just a difference in focus. Removing the sea lions is hard work. Hazing methods lose effectiveness over time, or only shift the problem, and the law requires solid groundwork before the state can kill an unwanted animal. So with a labor-intensive job before it, the state focuses its limited resources on Bonneville Dam and the Willamette River, which is very logical. Its the greatest point of overlap between the two species. But the complaints of the unimpressed anglers are equally logical. The state doesnt even maintain a full count of sea lions across the full extent of the Columbia and its many tributaries let alone afford to play sea lion cop on small rivers like the Cowlitz when big ones are crying out. Bottom line, we dont have enough salmon, and experts and laymen both believe the strong rebound of sea lions has a lot to do with that. The states efforts are worthwhile, but no one should be declaring victory until the fish numbers display a similar rebound. Far too many salmon are ending their lives as the worlds most expensive sea-lion chow. Thumbs up: No charges in shooting Its never a good thing when situations escalate to the use of force, especially if it is potentially lethal. That was the sad truth of a case in a March 8 shooting in Toutle. A teenage boy found a man in his yard harassing the dogs in his kennel, and when the man saw him, he became aggressive towards the teen, according to police. The encounter ended with the teen shooting the man in his chest. Anything that ends in gunfire has gone wrong, in our opinion. But where things went right was when the Cowlitz County Prosecutors Office had to make the call on charges. Ryan Jurvakainen, the county prosecutor, took a close look at the situation and made the informed decision not to pursue criminal charges. Jurvakainen didnt see a shooting and jump straight to charges, nor did he treat the idea of self-defense like a magic wand. He saw that this youth tried to deescalate the situation and it failed. It was the right call, arrived at in the right fashion. The field of artificial intelligence is one of huge extremes. While on one end, companies like Google and Microsoft are rolling out AI products virtually every day, on the other hand, major protests are taking place that want the rise of AI to be halted. And these protests include major AI researchers including the father of AI Geoffrey Hinton and the man that started the AI craze, the founder and CEO of OpenAI Sam Altman. In a development to the protests, today China also called for security measures against AI, highlighting its risks. In a separate, lighter vein, a digital artist used AI to reimagine Elon Musk as an Indian groom. This and more in our daily AI roundup. Let us take a look. China warns of AI risks The ruling party of China, the Chinese Communist Party, called for major national security measures to mitigate the risks of AI. The call for action was given in light of the big strides taken in the field of AI. According to the official Xinhua News Agency, a meeting was held on Tuesday headed by party leader and President Xi Jinping where the need for dedicated efforts to safeguard political security and improve the security governance of internet data and artificial intelligence was highlighted. Elon Musk turns groom in a new AI photo The wedding photography Instagram page called Rolling Canvas Presentations shared a new image created using the help of Midjourney, an AI-powered text-to-image generator. The image reimagined billionaire Elon Musk as a groom wearing traditional North Indian attire. The caption read, When Elon Musk had an Indian wedding - in my imagination :) From the times when we used to paint our imagination on paper to now when we can convey our ideas to computers/AI and it brings them to reality. Fascinated to be alive at these times and be part of a possible transition. Microsoft showcases AI Anthology Microsoft has released a compilation of 20 essays authored by distinguished scholars and professionals from various disciplines in an AI Anthology'. The essays explore the diverse ways in which AI can be harnessed to benefit humanity while shedding light on potential challenges. The AI Anthology project was initiated with the help of OpenAI. Twenty experts were given the early access to GPT-4 and were asked to focus on two aspects which were, how might this technology and its successors contribute to human flourishing' and how might we as society best guide the technology to achieve maximal benefits for humanity'. Based on their findings, they wrote essays highlighting their ideas and experiences. Some of the authors include Alec Gallimore, Dean of Engineering at University of Michigan, Gillian Hadfield, Professor of Law and Economics at the University of Toronto, and Robert Wachter, Chair of the Department of Medicine at the University of California. AI godfather feels lost' over his life's work One of the AI godfathers, Yoshua Bengio, spoke with BBC today to reveal that he felt lost' over his life's work. Bengio has been one of the vocally active critics of the unregulated rise of AI. Highlighting his concerns over bad actors, he told BCC, It might be military, it might be terrorists, it might be somebody very angry, psychotic. And so if it's easy to program these AI systems to ask them to do something very bad, this could be very dangerous. He also shared that these concerns were taking a toll on him as he felt his life's work was responsible for some of the leading research that led AI to where it is today. South Korea uses AI to measure North Korean leader's weight North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is believed to weigh over 140 kg according to an AI estimate. The North Korean leader's health is kept hidden from the public eye but due to recent speculation over his deterioration of health, people have begun speculating about the condition of the 39-years old (believed to be). "He appeared tired with clear dark circles around his eyes during his public appearance on May 16, and was estimated to weigh over 140 kilograms according to AI analysis," Yoo Sang-bum, a member of the parliamentary intelligence committee, told reporters after a briefing by the National Intelligence Service. Did you know that scientists study asteroids to learn more about the early solar system and the conditions that existed when the planets were forming? Asteroids can also provide valuable resources such as water, metals, and other minerals. One such discovery was made by studying an asteroid. Until now, it was believed that water was already present on Earth from the earliest times. However, a recent study has made an astonishing discovery that puts this very thought into doubt. The study has revealed that water may have originated on asteroids. Over the last few years, there have been several instances where asteroids have come very close to our planet, posing a potential threat. NASA, with the help of its advanced technology, has issued an alert against an asteroid that is expected to make its closest approach to Earth today. Asteroid 2012 KP24 details NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office is responsible for monitoring the skies and keeping a watch on various Near-Earth Objects (NEOs). The organization has issued a warning against an asteroid designated as Asteroid 2012 KP24. This Near-Earth Asteroid (NEA) is expected to make its closest approach to Earth today, May 31. Whilst this asteroid will come very close to the planet, it is not expected to impact the surface. According to NASA, Asteroid 2012 KP24 will pass by Earth at a distance of 3.9 million kilometers. It is already on its way towards the planet, travelling at a blistering speed of 44476 kilometers per hour. Asteroid 2012 KP24 belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids and is almost 58 feet wide, which makes it as big as a house! Asteroid impact in Canada Amid all the close asteroid flybys, NASA has revealed that an asteroid struck the Earth in November last year! NASA keeps a watch on these asteroids by studying data collected by various space and ground-based telescopes and observatories such as the Pan-STARRS, the Catalina Sky Survey, and the NEOWISE telescope. However, this asteroid was seemingly missed by all of them and was discovered just hours before impact! NASA has revealed that a tiny asteroid lit up the sky as it flew over Southern Ontario, Canada on Saturday, November 19. What's shocking is that this 3-foot asteroid was detected just 3.5 hours before impact! According to NASA, the asteroid is likely to have burned up upon entering the planet's atmosphere and scattered small meteorites over the southern coastline of Lake Ontario. 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 In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has made tremendous strides thanks to advances in machine learning and growing pools of data to learn from. Large language models (LLMs) and their derivatives, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's BERT, can now generate material that is increasingly similar to content created by humans. As a result, LLMs have become popular tools for creating high-quality, relevant and coherent text for a range of purposes, from composing social media posts to drafting academic papers. Despite the wide variety of potential applications, LLMs face increasing scrutiny. Critics, especially educators and original content creators, view LLMs as a means for plagiarism, cheating, deception and manipulative social engineering. In response to these concerns, researchers have developed novel methods to help distinguish between human-made content and machine-generated texts. The hope is that the ability to identify automated content will limit LLM abuse and its consequences. But University of Maryland computer scientists are working to answer an important question: can these detectors accurately identify AI-generated content? The short answer: Noat least, not now "Current detectors of AI aren't reliable in practical scenarios," said Soheil Feizi, an assistant professor of computer science at UMD. "There are a lot of shortcomings that limit how effective they are at detecting. For example, we can use a paraphraser and the accuracy of even the best detector we have drops from 100% to the randomness of a coin flip. If we simply paraphrase something that was generated by an LLM, we can often outwit a range of detecting techniques." In a recent paper, Feizi described two types of errors that impact an AI text detector's reliability: type I (when human text is detected as AI-generated) and type II (when AI-generated text is simply not detected). "Using a paraphraser, which is now a fairly common tool available online, can cause the second type of error," explained Feizi, who also holds a joint appointment in the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies. "There was also a recent example of the first type of error that went viral. Someone used AI detection software on the U.S. Constitution and it was flagged as AI-generated, which is obviously very wrong." According to Feizi, such mistakes made by AI detectors can be extremely damaging and often impossible to dispute when authorities like educators and publishers accuse students and other content creators of using AI. When and if such accusations are proven false, the companies and individuals responsible for developing the faulty AI detectors could also suffer reputational loss. In addition, even LLMs protected by watermarking schemes remain vulnerable against spoofing attacks where adversarial humans can infer hidden watermarks and add them to non-AI text so that it's detected to be AI-generated. Reputations and intellectual property may be irreversibly tainted after faulty resultsa major reason why Feizi calls for caution when it comes to relying solely on AI detectors to authenticate human-created content. "Let's say you're given a random sentence," Feizi said. "Theoretically, you can never reliably say that this sentence was written by a human or some kind of AI because the distribution between the two types of content is so close to each other. It's especially true when you think about how sophisticated LLMs and LLM-attackers like paraphrasers or spoofing are becoming." "The line between what's considered human and artificial becomes even thinner because of all these variables," he added. "There is an upper bound on our detectors that fundamentally limits them, so it's very unlikely that we'll be able to develop detectors that will reliably identify AI-generated content." Another view: More data could lead to better detection UMD Assistant Professor of Computer Science Furong Huang has a more optimistic outlook on the future of AI detection. Although she agrees with her colleague Feizi that current detectors are imperfect, Huang believes that it is possible to point out artificially generated contentas long as there are enough examples of what constitutes human-created content available. In other words, when it comes to AI analysis, more is better. "LLMs are trained on massive amounts of text. The more information we feed to them, the better and more human-like their outputs," explained Huang, who also holds a joint appointment in the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies. "If we do the same with detectorsthat is, provide them more samples to learn fromthen the detectors will also grow more sophisticated. They'll be better at spotting AI-generated text." Huang's recent paper on this topic examined the possibility of designing superior AI detectors, as well as determining how much data would be required to improve its detection capabilities. "Mathematically speaking, we'll always be able to collect more data and samples for detectors to learn from," said UMD computer science Ph.D. student Souradip Chakraborty, who is a co-author of the paper. "For example, there are numerous bots on social media platforms like Twitter. If we collect more bots and the data they have, we'll be better at discerning what's spam and what's human text on the platform." Huang's team suggests that detectors should take a more holistic approach and look at bigger samples to try to identify this AI-generated "spam." "Instead of focusing on a single phrase or sentence for detection, we suggest using entire paragraphs or documents," added Amrit Singh Bedi, a research scientist at the Maryland Robotics Center who is also a co-author of Huang's paper. "Multiple sentence analysis would increase accuracy in AI detection because there is more for the system to learn from than just an individual sentence." Huang's group also believes that the innate diversity within the human population makes it difficult for LLMs to create content that mimics human-produced text. Distinctly human characteristics such as certain grammatical patterns and word choices could help identify text that was written by a person rather than a machine. "It'll be like a constant arms race between generative AI and detectors," Huang said. "But we hope that this dynamic relationship actually improves how we approach creating both the generative LLMs and their detectors in the first place." What's next for AI and AI detection Although Feizi and Huang have differing opinions on the future of LLM detection, they do share several important conclusions that they hope the public will consider moving forward. "One thing's for surebanning LLMs and apps like ChatGPT is not the answer," Feizi said. "We have to accept that these tools now exist and that they're here to stay. There's so much potential in them for fields like education, for example, and we should properly integrate these tools into systems where they can do good." Feizi suggests in his research that security methods used to counter generative LLMs, including detectors, don't need to be 100% foolproofthey just need to be more difficult for attackers to break, starting with closing the loopholes that researchers already know about. Huang agrees. "We can't just give up if the detector makes one mistake in one instance," Huang said. "There has to be an active effort to protect the public from the consequences of LLM abuse, particularly members of our society who identify as minorities and are already encountering social biases in their lives." Both researchers also believe that multimodality (the use of text in conjunction with images, videos and other forms of media) will also be key to improved AI detection in the future. Feizi cites the use of secondary verification tools already in practice, such as authenticating phone numbers linked to social media accounts or observing behavioral patterns in content submissions, as additional safeguards to prevent false AI detection and bias. "We want to encourage open and honest discussion about ethical and trustworthy applications of generative LLMs," Feizi said. "There are so many ways we can use these AI tools to improve our society, especially for student learning or preventing the spread of misinformation." As AI-generated texts become more pervasive, researchers like Feizi and Huang recognize that it's important to develop more proactive stances in how the public approaches LLMs and similar forms of AI. "We have to start from the top," Huang said. "Stakeholders need to start having a discussion about these LLMs and talk to policymakers about setting ground rules through regulation. There needs to be oversight on how LLMs progress while researchers like us develop better detectors, watermarks or other approaches to handling AI abuse." Both papers are published on the arXiv preprint server. More information: Vinu Sankar Sadasivan et al, Can AI-Generated Text be Reliably Detected?, arXiv (2023). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2303.11156 Souradip Chakraborty et al, On the Possibilities of AI-Generated Text Detection, arXiv (2023). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2304.04736 Journal information: arXiv 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: Illustration of the operating principle of the active regeneration mode for one cycle. (A) Step 1, loading Bundle 1 and unloading Bundle 2. (B) Step 2, heat rejection from Bundle 1 to heat sink and cooling heat source by Bundle 2. (C) Step 3, unloading Bundle 1 and loading Bundle 2. (D) Step 4, the final step, cooling heat source by Bundle 1 and heat rejection from Bundle 2 to heat sink. Credit: Science (2023). DOI: 10.1126/science.adg7043 A team of material scientists at the University of Maryland, working with one colleague from Jiaotong University and another from Beihang University, both in China, has developed a cleaner approach to building cooling systems based on the use of a squeezable metal. Their research is published in the journal Science. Coolant materials used in refrigerators are harmful to the environment, and engineers are searching for a cleaner alternative. One such researcher is Ichiro Takeuchi at the University of Maryland. Over the past decade, he and his team have worked to find a way to use electrocaloric materials as cooling agents. Such materials undergo temperature changes when stretched or are compressed due to phase transitions. More specifically, he and his colleagues have been working with wires made from nickel and titanium, (NiTi), which have been found to be electrocaloric, to build cooling systems. Multiple engineering challenges stand in the way of building a commercially viable product, but in this new effort, they have overcome several of those challenges. Two of the biggest challenges involve efficient fluid recovery (water is used as the heat exchange) and ways to reduce heat loss that results from friction. Solutions have included using denser bundles of NiTi tubes and an improved actuator, which applies load bundling. Their system uses two bundles connected using the actuatoras the loads are bundled and unbundled, the system moves through cycles of compression on the NiTi, which drives cooling, and thus refrigeration. The model has two modes, depending on the amount of water in the systemone mode was designed to optimize cooling, and the other temperature span. The system has been shown capable of cooling a system by 22.5K. The team acknowledges that their system is not yet ready for commercialization, but expect that certain improvements will make it so. They plan to improve its efficiency by improving the actuator and by tinkering with the percentages of nickel and titanium used to make the tubes. More information: Suxin Qian et al, High-performance multimode elastocaloric cooling system, Science (2023). DOI: 10.1126/science.adg7043 Journal information: Science 2023 Science X Network 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: NZCB system test site (Gaho community center, Jinju city, Korea. Credit: Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology The Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT) has mad progress in the field of ecological building technology with the development of a new "Net Zero Carbon Building (NZCB) system." This innovative system, designed to minimize both operating carbon and embodied carbon, holds the key to significantly reducing carbon emissions in the construction industry. Embodied carbon, which encompasses the carbon emissions generated during the production, transportation, construction and disposal of building materials, is a critical factor in addressing carbon neutrality. In addition to the well-known operating carbon emitted during the buildings operational phase, the reduction of embodied carbon from the material production stage is essential. According to Global ABCs 2019 report, operating and embedded carbon contribute to approximately 39% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Traditionally, the construction sector has primarily focused on optimizing operational energy, such as lighting and heating, to mitigate carbon emissions. However, minimizing embodied carbon is now recognized as a fundamental requirement for achieving carbon-neutral building. In response to this challenge, the Ecological Building Research Group at KICT (Dr. Hyeon Soo Kim, Dr. Soo-Young, Moon), has successfully developed a new NZCB system capable of simultaneously reducing both operational and embodied carbon. This system was recently tested in Jinju City, Korea. The research team, led by Dr. Hyeon Soo Kim, incorporated thirteen major technologies into the NZCB system. Among these technologies, the most noteworthy is the adoption of the eco-friendly cement (High Sulfated Calcium Silicate Cement, HSCSC), which has the remarkable capability of reducing CO 2 emissions by more than 90% while minimizing environmental impact. Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), a commonly used concrete material, emits 1.2 kg of carbon per kg during production. In contrast, HSCSC emits only 0.07 kg of carbon per kg, resulting in a reduction of 1,130 kg of carbon emissions per ton compared to OPC. Another noteworthy advancement is the development of CXP (Cellulose X-linked Polymer), an eco-friendly thermoplastic composed solely of wood and natural resin. The research team pioneered the creation and application of CXP-based deck materials for exterior use, the first of its kind worldwide. To evaluate the efficacy of the NZCB system, the research team conducted monitoring of operational and embodied carbon reduction at the Gaho community center in Jinju City, Korea. A comparative analysis was carried out, comparing the environmental performance and embodied carbon emissions of the community center as a NZCB with that of a conventional Reinforced Concrete Building (RCB). Using the European Union's Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) guide, environmental performance was assessed across sixteen impact categories. The results indicated that the Gaho community center demonstrated superior environmental friendliness compared to steel concrete buildings. In particular, the impact on climate change, closely linked to carbon emissions, was nearly halved. Specifically, the embodied carbon impact was found to be 56.3% lower compared to the comparative RCB, resulting in a reduction of 25.7 tons of embodied carbon. Moreover, the recorded electrical energy consumption over a period of five months, starting from September 2022, suggests a potential yearly reduction of 2.2 tons of carbon emissions. This reduction is achieved by utilizing only half of the energy produced. Consequently, the Gaho community center in Jinju City emitted a total of 33.1 tons of carbon during its construction. However, the surplus electricity production is anticipated to offset 2.2 tons of embodied carbon emissions annually. This progress indicates that the Gaho community center aims to become a net zero carbon building within a span of 15 years. Dr. Hyeon Soo said, "The demonstration project's incorporation of thirteen innovative technologies will not only decrease carbon emissions and minimize environmental impacts in the construction industry but also make a significant contribution to the future growth of the ecological building market." The research is published in the journal Energy and Buildings. More information: Jae-Won Oh et al, Comparative CO 2 emissions of concrete and timber slabs with equivalent structural performance, Energy and Buildings (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.enbuild.2022.112768 Provided by National Research Council of Science & Technology 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: Dr Tingting Song and Distinguished Professor Ma Qian (left to right) with a titanium alloy created with the laser 3D printer that the team used at RMIT University, Note: this is not an alloy that the team made for this research. Credit: RMIT University A team of researchers has created a new class of titanium alloys that are strong and not brittle under tension, by integrating alloy and 3D-printing process designs. The breakthrough, published in the journal Nature, could help extend the applications of titanium alloys, improve sustainability and drive innovative alloy design. Their discovery holds promise for a new class of more sustainable high-performance titanium alloys for applications in aerospace, biomedical, chemical engineering, space and energy technologies. RMIT University and the University of Sydney led the innovation, in collaboration with Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the company Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence in Melbourne. Lead researcher, Ma Qian a professor from RMIT, said the team embedded circular economy thinking in their design, creating great promise for producing their new titanium alloys from industrial waste and low-grade materials. "Reusing waste and low-quality materials has the potential to add economic value and reduce the high carbon footprint of the titanium industry," said Qian from RMIT's Center for Additive Manufacturing in the School of Engineering. The making of a titanium alloy on the laser 3D printer that the team used at for their research (note that this is not an alloy the team made for this particular research). Credit: RMIT What type of titanium alloys has the team made? The team's titanium alloys consist of a mixture of two forms of titanium crystals, called alpha-titanium phase and beta-titanium phase, each corresponding to a specific arrangement of atoms. This class of alloys has been the backbone of the titanium industry. Since 1954, these alloys have been produced primarily by adding aluminum and vanadium to titanium. The research team investigated the use of oxygen and irontwo of the most powerful stabilizers and strengtheners of alpha- and beta-titanium phaseswhich are abundant and inexpensive. Atomic-scale microstructure across an alpha-beta interphase interface from a new alloy 3D-printed by the team using laser directed energy deposition. Credit: Ma Qian, Simon Ringer and colleagues Two challenges have hindered the development of strong and ductile alpha-beta titanium-oxygen-iron alloys through the conventional manufacturing processes, Qian said. "One challenge is that oxygendescribed colloquially as 'the kryptonite to titanium'can make titanium brittle, and the other is that adding iron could lead to serious defects in the form of large patches of beta-titanium." The team used Laser Directed Energy Deposition (L-DED), a 3D printing process suitable for making large, complex parts, to print their alloys from metal powder. "A key enabler for us was the combination of our alloy design concepts with 3D-printing process design, which has identified a range of alloys that are strong, ductile and easy to print," Qian said. The attractive properties of these new alloys that can rival those of commercial alloys are attributed to their microstructure, the team says. "This research delivers a new titanium alloy system capable of a wide and tunable range of mechanical properties, high manufacturability, enormous potential for emissions reduction and insights for materials design in kindred systems," said co-lead researcher University of Sydney Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Simon Ringer. "The critical enabler is the unique distribution of oxygen and iron atoms within and between the alpha-titanium and beta-titanium phases. "We've engineered a nanoscale gradient of oxygen in the alpha-titanium phase, featuring high-oxygen segments that are strong, and low-oxygen segments that are ductile allowing us to exert control over the local atomic bonding and so mitigate the potential for embrittlement." What are the potential applications of the research findings? Lead author Dr. Tingting Song, RMIT Vice-Chancellor's Research Fellow, said the team is "at the start of a major journey, from the proof of our new concepts here, towards industrial applications." "There are grounds to be excited3D printing offers a fundamentally different way of making novel alloys and has distinct advantages over traditional approaches," she said. "There's a potential opportunity for industry to reuse waste sponge titanium-oxygen-iron alloy, 'out-of-spec' recycled high-oxygen titanium powders or titanium powders made from high-oxygen scrap titanium using our approach." Co-lead author Dr. Zibin Chen, who joined Hong Kong Polytechnic University from the University of Sydney in the later stages of the collaboration, said the research had broader implications. "Oxygen embrittlement is a major metallurgical challenge not only for titanium, but also for other important metals such as zirconium, niobium and molybdenum and their alloys," he said. "Our work may provide a template to mitigate these oxygen embrittlement issues through 3D printing and microstructure design." The team's work benefited from sustained, targeted investment in research infrastructure from national and state governments and from universities, Ringer said. "In many ways, this work showcases the power of Australia's national collaborative research infrastructure strategy and sets the scene for extending this strategy into the realm of advanced manufacturing," he said. The team's research paper, "Strong and ductile titanium-oxygen-iron alloys by additive manufacturing," is published in Nature. An editorial on the team's work, "Designer titanium alloys created using 3D printing," is also published in Nature. More information: Ma Qian, Strong and ductile titaniumoxygeniron alloys by additive manufacturing, Nature (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-05952-6. www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-05952-6 Editorial: Designer titanium alloys created using 3D printing, Nature (2023). DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-01360-y Journal information: Nature Erdogan's win thwarts U.S. attempt at geopolitical shift Xinhua) 10:51, May 31, 2023 Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivers a speech in Ankara, Turkiye on May 29, 2023. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua) It is also a clear sign that Erdogan's tough attitude toward the United States is popular among the Turkish people, as most Turks might not see the United States as the "City upon a Hill" anymore. ANKARA, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Incumbent Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday beat his challenger Kemal Kilicdaroglu in a presidential runoff to start a third term in office. The election had been seen as the best chance for the pro-West opposition to beat Erdogan, but the result narrowly missed Washington's expectation. Erdogan won 52.14 percent of the vote, compared with 47.86 percent for Kilicdaroglu, beating the strong opposition coalition dubbed the "table of six." A 74-year-old pro-West politician, Kilicdaroglu represents the coalition of six political parties, and probably has no chance to run in the next election in five years. Supporters of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan celebrate in front of the Turkish Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkiye, May 28, 2023. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua) There was no doubt that Washington saw Kilicdaroglu as a much better choice and expected that a geopolitical shift of Turkiye might happen if he won. U.S. Ambassador to Turkiye Jeff Flake met Kilicdaroglu in March, implying that the United States would back him to be the new leader of the country. The result, however, shows that Erdogan is still dominant in the power of his country and his political career is not coming to an end. It is also a clear sign that Erdogan's tough attitude toward the United States is popular among the Turkish people, as most Turks might not see the United States as the "City upon a Hill" anymore. Washington has long been reckoning Erdogan's administration hampers the country's democracy, and the opposition parties are getting weaker and promoting secularism is not on the agenda of Ankara. The rift between Ankara and Washington becomes wider due to their different values. Turkish Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu, a close ally of Erdogan, said openly ahead of the election that Washington is seeking to impose its hegemony on global affairs and "the whole world hates America," and that the meeting between the U.S. envoy with Kilicdaroglu would further alienate Ankara from Washington. Turkiye's balance strategy between Russia and the United States upsets Washington. The cooperation between Ankara and Moscow seems to be increasing in different dimensions. As an energy-dependent country, Turkiye receives about 45 percent of its natural gas and significant amounts of oil and coal from Russia. After the Ukraine crisis broke out, Turkiye refused to follow Western sanctions on Russia, and instead, its NATO membership actually boosted its cooperation with Russia. Supporters of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan celebrate in front of the Turkish Presidential Palace in Ankara, Turkiye, May 28, 2023. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua) Li Yanan, an expert on the Turkish issue and associate researcher at the China Institute of Contemporary International Relations, told Xinhua that after Erdogan's successful re-election, he will still maintain a balanced foreign policy and play a more important role in the Ukraine crisis, and prioritize Ankara's own interests in its relationship with the United States and the West. On Sweden's accession to NATO, Li said it still depends on whether Sweden can meet the conditions proposed by Erdogan. However, during the third term of the presidency of Erdogan, Turkiye would not easily approve Sweden's NATO membership, as long as the demand of Ankara is not met. Erdogan accused Sweden of being soft on groups Ankara considers to be terrorists. Li believes that Erdogan himself will not give up Turkiye's NATO membership, as it is still very important for Ankara, and is also one of the best bargaining chip to deal with Russia. Following Saudi Arabia's recent reconciliation with Iran, Erdogan's win in the presidential election could further make major powers of the Middle East turn away from U.S. manipulation. This could be another fiasco of the U.S. Middle East policy after the invasion of Iraq. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) 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: Twitter logos hang outside the company's offices in San Francisco, Monday, Dec. 19, 2022. Twitter may now be worth one-third of what Elon Musk paid for the social media platform just seven months ago. Financial services company Fidelity has reduced the market value of its equity stake in Twitter for a third time, now putting it at $6.55 billion. Credit: AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File Twitter may now be worth one-third of what Elon Musk paid for the social media platform just seven months ago. Financial services company Fidelity has reduced the market value of its equity stake in Twitter for a third time, now putting it at $6.55 billion. That's down from the nearly $20 billion Fidelity valued its stake at in October. It is unclear how Fidelity came up with its valuation figures, but as a public company it's required to provide investors with updates on its holdings. Because Twitter is a private company now called X Holdings Corp., information about its finances can't be verified. Musk took control of Twitter in October, after a protracted legal battle and months of uncertainty. The CEO of Tesla, who also owns SpaceX, bought Twitter for $44 billion. The billionaire financed the purchase with funds including loans from a group of banks. Musk has said the $44 billion price tag for Twitter was too high but that the company had great potential. By April Musk was telling the BBC that running Twitter has been " quite painful " but that the social media company is now roughly breaking even after he acquired it late last year. Musk predicted at the time that Twitter could become "cash flow positive" in the current quarter "if current trends continue." 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Climbing onto a 36-foot inflatable boat to be lowered 40 feet from the deck of USS San Antonio onto the Atlantic is just part of the days work for sailors with the Norfolk-based USS Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group. We do this every day, said Capt. Darren Nelson, the groups commodore, in a phone interview from the seas south of Ireland. Its an exercise to make sure that high-risk search and rescue missions on the high seas dont go awry, he said. Its also how the groups sailors, as well as the Marines of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit who deployed with them three weeks ago, get to other ships when they need to board, inspect and if necessary, seize illegal weapons. And thats just some of the missions the group is ready to take on. The Iwo Jima has Marine aviators and their Harriers short-take-off jets that can land vertically on board. With the group are sailors from Norfolk-based Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 26 and Assault Craft Units 2 and 4, which operate the landing craft and air cushion vehicles that bring Marines to the beach. Those Marine Harriers mean the group can undertake strike missions while the Marines, the beach masters and Seabees are an expeditionary force that can respond to crises. Onboard with the group is Fleet Surgical Team 6, with doctors and nurses who can turn the Iwo Jima and San Antonio medical department spaces into emergency operating rooms. Theyre ready to go ashore with the Marines and sailors, as well. Search and rescue and maritime security is yet another mission for which sailors drill on every day when lowering those inflatable boats. This is a dangerous evolution, and thats why we practice it to make sure we do it right, Nelson said. This deployment marks the first time Marines from the East Coast have taken their new Joint Light Tactical Vehicles to sea. Theyre slightly bigger than the Humvees the Marines had been using. They and the groups sailors were trying to find the best way to secure them onboard and load them onto the landing craft and air cushion vehicles on the San Antonio and Carter Hall well decks. Its been a learning experience and weve got that down now, said Col. Eric Cloutier, commander of the Marine unit. The Marines and the groups sailors have been working together for the better part of a year, Cloutier said. That included several at-sea exercises and an intensive preparation for deployment earlier this year culminating in a live-fire raid exercise that saw nearly 100 Marines and sailors converging on targets at Camp Lejeunes newest range and an amphibious assault by a force of nearly 600 Marines and sailors. Even in the tight confines of a ship at sea, the Marines continue their training though it at times can demand plenty of ingenuity to figure out safe ways of doing so, Cloutier said. Even live-fire practice is possible, off the ships flight decks, he said. We are ready to respond to anything, Cloutier said. And drilling every day, whether thats the sailors on the groups inflatable boats, or the Assault Craft Units sailors delving deep into their vehicles mechanical system, or the helicopter flights on which Navy nurses train on caring for the wounded, all add up to one thing, in Nelsons view: Were one team, a Navy and Marine Corps team we are workhorses. Dave Ress, 757-247-4535, dress@dailypress.com According to her friends, Dee Casteel was the nicest woman you would ever want to know. For a double murderer, that is. Without Mercy is the somewhat biased account of Dee Casteels drunken path to Floridas death row. Although Gary Provost purports to have written the book to explore certain questions about the criminal justice system, it is apparent that he too bought into this theory that the murderess is just an ordinary person. Rather than rely on court documents and trial transcripts, he instead bases his belief almost entirely on interviews with the defendant, her family and friends. Unquestionably, the cast of characters is an interesting one. Dee, 44, worked as a waitress at the International House of Pancakes in Naranja, Fla., about 35 miles south of Miami. She kept a bottle of Scotch under the counter and had been fired from every restaurant in town because of her drinking. Although married and the mother of two young boys, she was especially attracted to James Allen Bryant, the homosexual lover of the owner of the IHOP, Art Venecia. Unfortunately for old Art, Bryant was in love with Henry Ramos and decided to get rid of Art and steal his money and business. To carry out his plot, Bryant enlisted the aid of Dee, who just happened to know someone who might do the murder, a mechanic named Mike Irvine. For $5,000, Irvine and his accomplice, Bill Rhodes, slit Arts throat as he lay sleeping in his bed. And when Arts senile, 84 year-old mother kept asking for her son, Dee again hired Irvine and Rhodes to murder her, too. Once he gets the details of the murders out of the way, Provost spends the rest of his book tracing the lives of the main characters. He devotes an inordinate amount of time to describing the drinking habits of these people, whom he frequently refers to as ordinary, middle-class citizens. Unfortunately for Provost, he gets lost in his theory that alcoholism somehow excuses what Casteel and her buddies did. He seems to have bought into Dees distorted claim that she was only minimally involved in these murders. By doing so, he ignores the fact that all of these defenses were soundly rejected by the jury that heard the case and rewarded Dee, Bryant, Irvine and Rhodes with the death penalty. As a murder story, this one probably ranks on the high end of the scale for premeditation and cruelty. As an examination of our judicial system and the disease of alcoholism, it falls down on the job. * Cathy E. Krinick is assistant Commonwealths attorney for Hampton. WITHOUT MERCY By GARY PROVOST Pocket Books Photographs. 252 pages. $17.95 The College Station City Council agreed to consider adding a convention center in the future at the end of its meeting last Thursday. Councilman Bob Yancy asked Mayor John Nichols and city manager Bryan Woods to consider the item, which he noted was discussed and added to the citys strategic plan. A workshop item where we might, at a time of convenience, where we might discuss openly, hear from staff, as to the feasibility of it, Yancy said. What does a feasibility study look like? Is there such a process? But where we might have an open discussion, not just questions and Q&A, but open discussion where we can express our opinions and thoughts on the matter of a convention center. No objections were made by other council members. It is uncertain when the council will discuss adding a convention center. I think thats a good one and well put it in the queue at an appropriate time, Nichols said in response to Yancy. Building a city-owned convention center has been a council topic of discussion for almost 15 years. In 2008, the city purchased land at the Chimney Hill shopping center on University Drive for $9.6 million in hopes it would one day be the site for a convention center. The council approved a finance plan for a $40 million-dollar convention center in March 2012, which was supposed to open by 2017. The plan fell through in the following years, though, and the council asked city officials to look into selling the property. A sale of the land was completed in 2014 when the city sold it to the PM Realty Group, a Houston-based developer, for $7.5 million, $2.1 million less than it was purchased for six years earlier. Former College Station Mayor Ben White supported the addition of a city-owned convention center, but he lost reelection in 2012 to Nancy Berry, current Brazos County commissioner who opposed the idea. Berry told The Eagle in November 2014, when the city sold the land, the private sector should be in charge of a convention center, not the city. Convention centers lose money everywhere, and some people think it brings people into town and it might, Berry said in 2014. But the Brazos County Expo Center, which I think is wildly successful, still loses millions for the county. Texas A&M University has opened two spaces for conventions and large gatherings since 2012. The Memorial Student Center reopened in April 2012 with the Bethancourt Ballroom deemed the largest ballroom in the Brazos Valley which can accommodate up to 1,700 guests with over 15,000 square feet of space. A&Ms Pitcock Hotel and Conference Center opened in August 2018 with a ballroom that can accommodate up to 660 people. The Hilton College Station & Conference Center is currently under renovation that will expand its meeting spaces to 28,000 square feet when completed. Yet, discussion of a city-owned convention center has resurfaced in recent months. Last October, College Station City Council candidates were asked about ideas that would bring tourism dollars to College Station, including the potential of a convention center in the city. While we dont have a convention center right now, we do have the conference center on the Texas A&M campus and I think that is something we should do our best to work with Texas A&M to try to leverage and make use of, said William Wright, who was elected to the councils Place 2 in November. Earlier this month, councilman Dennis Maloney mentioned the convention center after a presentation about the citys tourism priorities. By God, its time we had a convention center, Maloney said during the councils May 15 meeting. Everyone on this council is supportive of it. We need it. Weve got space for it. We need the convention center. The Bryan Police Department responded to reports of a naked male running around in the roadway and parking lot near a Whataburger on Texas Avenue, according to police. The man was arrested for disorderly conduct-exposure and possession of a controlled substance in penalty group 2. Bryan police were dispatched to the 3100 block of S. Texas Ave. where they detained the male after observing him running in the parking lot naked. The man told police he had smoked phencyclidine (PCP). A cigarette dipped in PCP weighing 2.5 grams was found inside a tea beverage within the center console of his vehicle. The man was arrested and transported to the Brazos County Detention Center and is currently being held on a total bond of $8,325. WASHINGTON President Joe Biden has nominated a highly decorated Marine officer and Texas A&M University graduate who has been involved in the transformation of the force to be the next Marine Corps commandant. The nomination of Gen. Eric Smith, now the assistant commandant, had been widely expected and has been forwarded to the Senate. The current top Marine, Gen. David Berger, is wrapping up his four-year term and preparing to retire. Smith, a career infantry officer who was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1987 through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps program at Texas A&M, has commanded at every level, serving multiple tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, including time in Fallujah and Ramadi during heavy combat in 2004 and 2005 in Operation Iraq Freedom. He later was the senior military adviser to Defense Secretary Ash Carter and in in 2019 took over as the deputy commandant for combat development. In that post, Smith worked with Berger on a broad campaign to transform the Marine Corps to better be able to fight amphibious wars in the Pacific after years of battling terrorist groups in the Middle East. The plan was lauded by many in the Pentagon and Congress as a critical way for the Marines to prepare for a potential conflict with China. Smith and Berger argued that the changes will improve the Marine Corps ability to fight in contested areas, particularly within striking range of an enemy. That element is critical in the Indo-Pacific, where thousands of U.S. and allied forces are easily within missile or even rocket range of both China and North Korea. But some of the moves, including the transfer of Marine tanks to the Army, triggered sharp criticism from a group of retired Marine generals. During a speech at a naval conference in February, Smith defended the decision as critical to modern warfare against highly capable enemies. I love tanks, I used them in Iraq, I used them in Afghanistan, Smith said. But he said they are more vulnerable and cant move quickly enough to avoid new, high-tech attacks. When an enemy can hit a tank 90 kilometers away with long-range fire, he said, I cant move them on time to be in a position to do something that I need them to do ... . Its not that theyre bad, its that I cant afford to use them in my current mission. Smith was promoted to four-star general in 2021 and took over as assistant commandant, where he has focused on recruiting, retention and managing the development of Marine forces. All the military services have been struggling to meet their recruiting goals amid low U.S. unemployment, steep competition from private industry and out-of-shape recruits. This year the Marine Corps is expected to be the only service to meet its recruiting goal, though leaders still worry about the ongoing challenge. Still, Smith, in February, dismissed the need to provide large bonuses in order to attract new recruits. Some say we should be giving out recruiting bonuses. We dont give recruit bonuses, he said, noting there are some exceptions for individuals with very special skills. The reason that we dont get bonuses? Your bonus is you get to call yourself a Marine. Thats your bonus, right? Theres no dollar amount that goes with that. Instead, he has talked about providing bonuses to retain Marines in order to keep them from leaving after their first tour. That, he said, would help fill a deficit of Marines with five years to nine years in service. Rather than struggle to find more people who leave after four years, he said they should find ways to make it more attractive for Marines to reenlist by providing more stability in where they are stationed, more training and expanded job choices. Smith, who grew up in Plano, earned numerous awards that include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the highest noncombat award; the Legion of Merit; a Bronze Star with a V for combat valor; and a Purple Heart. Smith was a Ross Volunteer and a member of B Battery while at Texas A&M. During his senior year, he was the commander of the Fighting Texas Aggie Band. Disgraced Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes has reported to a federal prison in Bryan marking the start of her 11-year sentence for overseeing a notorious blood testing hoax. Holmes, 39, was convicted of fraud last year for duping investors who contributed hundreds of millions of dollars in the failed Silicon Valley startup. Holmes and Ramesh Sunny Balwani, Holmes former partner and fellow executive who is currently serving a nearly 13-year prison sentence, said Theranos had developed a device that could quickly scan for diseases and other medical conditions with a just few drops of blood. But the technology never worked as advertised leading to the meteoric downfall of a company that once promised to revolutionize health care. On Tuesday, Holmes entered a federal womens prison camp in Bryan a minimum-security facility where the federal judge who sentenced Holmes in November recommended she be incarcerated. Here are some things to know about Federal Prison Camp Bryan and Holmes arrival at the facility. Why is Holmes being incarcerated in Bryan? Holmes reported to FPC Bryan on Tuesday, the Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed. The arrival comes more than a year after a jury convicted Holmes on four felony counts of fraud and conspiracy in January 2022. She was sentenced to 11 years in November. Holmes had originally been ordered to begin her prison sentence April 27, but won a reprieve with a last-minute legal maneuver that gave her more time with her two young children. Earlier this month, U.S. District Judge Edward Davila set Holmes revised prison-reporting date for May 30. In a separate ruling, Davila also ordered that Holmes and Balwani pay $452 million in restitution. Attorneys representing Holmes did not immediately respond when contacted by The Associated Press for statement on Tuesday. Where is Federal Prison Camp Bryan? FPC Bryan is located at 1100 Ursuline Ave. and encompasses about 37 acres of land a few blocks south of E. Martin Luther King Jr. Street and west of Texas 6. According to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, FPC Bryan is one of a handful of minimum security facilities of its kind across the nation. Who else is held in FPC Bryan?? About 650 women are housed in FPC Bryan including Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Jennifer Shah, who was sentenced earlier this year to 6 1/2 years in prison for defrauding thousands of people in a yearslong telemarketing scam. In addition to Shah, other recognizable figures who have served sentences at FPC Bryan in the past include former Enron executive Lea Fastow, participant in the Jan. 6 Capitol attack Jenna Ryan, and Michelle Janavs, heir to the Hot Pockets fortune and a former investment executive who participated in the college admissions scandal, according to The New York Times. What is a minimum security prison like? Federal prison camps like FPC Bryan are minimum-security institutions. Most of those types of facilities dont even have fences and hold inmates the Bureau of Prisons considers to be the lowest security risk. The prison camps also often have minimal staffing and many of the people incarcerated there work at prison jobs. According to a 2016 FPC Bryan inmate handbook, those in the Texas facility who are eligible to work can earn between 12 cents and $1.15 per hour in their job assignments, which include food service roles and factory employment operated by Federal Prison Industries. Federal prison camps were originally designed with low security to make operations easier and to allow inmates tasked with performing work at the prison to avoid repeatedly checking in and out of a main prison facility. But the lax security opened a gateway for contraband, such as drugs, cellphones and weapons. The limited security also has led to a number of escapes from prison camps. Akzo Nobel (OTCMKTS:AKZOD Get Rating) hit a new 52-week low on Tuesday . The company traded as low as $25.55 and last traded at $25.63, with a volume of 39661 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $25.92. Akzo Nobel Trading Down 1.1 % The company has a market capitalization of $17.50 billion, a PE ratio of 16.41, a PEG ratio of 8.70 and a beta of 0.76. The company has a current ratio of 1.46, a quick ratio of 1.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $26.72 and a two-hundred day moving average of $25.01. Akzo Nobel Company Profile (Get Rating) Akzo Nobel N.V. operates as a paints and coatings company in the Netherlands and internationally. The company operates through Decorative Paints and Performance Coatings segments. It provides decorative paints, including paints, lacquers, and varnishes; mixing machines, color concepts, and training courses for the building and renovation industry; and specialty coatings for metal, wood, and other building materials. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Akzo Nobel Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Akzo Nobel and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Dakota Gold Corp. (NYSE:DC Get Rating) Director Alice D. Schroeder acquired 26,373 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, May 26th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $3.13 per share, for a total transaction of $82,547.49. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 248,769 shares in the company, valued at approximately $778,646.97. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Dakota Gold Stock Performance DC stock traded up $0.05 during trading on Tuesday, hitting $3.17. 173,984 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 186,812. Dakota Gold Corp. has a 1 year low of $2.61 and a 1 year high of $4.69. The firms 50 day moving average is $3.41 and its two-hundred day moving average is $3.35. Get Dakota Gold alerts: Institutional Trading of Dakota Gold Institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its stake in Dakota Gold by 2.3% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 143,992 shares of the companys stock worth $521,000 after acquiring an additional 3,257 shares during the period. Virtu Financial LLC raised its stake in Dakota Gold by 25.1% during the 3rd quarter. Virtu Financial LLC now owns 21,893 shares of the companys stock worth $67,000 after acquiring an additional 4,387 shares during the period. Deutsche Bank AG raised its stake in Dakota Gold by 27.3% during the 4th quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 28,345 shares of the companys stock worth $86,000 after acquiring an additional 6,081 shares during the period. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC raised its stake in Dakota Gold by 237.5% during the 3rd quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 9,707 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after acquiring an additional 6,831 shares during the period. Finally, Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd bought a new stake in Dakota Gold during the 1st quarter worth approximately $41,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 23.67% of the companys stock. Dakota Gold Company Profile Dakota Gold Corp. engages in the acquisition and exploration of mineral properties. It primarily explores for gold deposits. The company holds 100% interest in the Blind Gold, City Creek, Homestake Paleoplacer, Tinton, West Corridor, Ragged Top, Poorman Anticline, Maitland, and South Lead/Whistler Gulch projects located Homestake District, South Dakota. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Dakota Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dakota Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cardinal Energy Ltd. (OTCMKTS:CRLFF Get Rating) was the target of a large growth in short interest in the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 4,753,200 shares, a growth of 20.5% from the April 30th total of 3,943,300 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 41,800 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 113.7 days. Analysts Set New Price Targets Separately, Royal Bank of Canada reduced their target price on shares of Cardinal Energy from C$9.00 to C$8.50 in a research note on Friday, May 12th. Get Cardinal Energy alerts: Cardinal Energy Stock Performance CRLFF traded down $0.10 on Tuesday, reaching $5.06. 1,723 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 24,315. Cardinal Energy has a 52-week low of $4.64 and a 52-week high of $7.65. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $5.28 and its 200-day moving average price is $5.47. Cardinal Energy Increases Dividend About Cardinal Energy The company also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 15th. Investors of record on Friday, April 28th were issued a dividend of $0.0445 per share. This is an increase from Cardinal Energys previous dividend of $0.04. This represents a dividend yield of 9.62%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, April 27th. Cardinal Energys dividend payout ratio is currently 8.93%. (Get Rating) Cardinal Energy Ltd. engages in the acquisition, exploration, and production of oil and natural gas. It focuses to explore and produce oil and natural gas in the provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan, Canada. Its operational areas include Midale, which is located in Weyburn Saskatchewan; Southern Alberta; East Central Alberta; and North Area of Canada. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Cardinal Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Cardinal Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A. (OTCMKTS:ISNPY Get Rating) was the recipient of a large drop in short interest in the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 70,600 shares, a drop of 8.0% from the April 30th total of 76,700 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 240,500 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.3 days. Intesa Sanpaolo Price Performance Shares of OTCMKTS ISNPY traded down $0.21 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $14.29. The company had a trading volume of 121,573 shares, compared to its average volume of 242,145. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $15.64 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $14.93. Intesa Sanpaolo has a one year low of $9.36 and a one year high of $16.70. Get Intesa Sanpaolo alerts: Intesa Sanpaolo Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 26th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, May 30th were issued a $0.4108 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 26th. Analyst Ratings Changes About Intesa Sanpaolo Separately, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised Intesa Sanpaolo from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, February 17th. (Get Rating) Intesa Sanpaolo SpA engages in the provision of financial products and banking services. It operates through the following segments: Banca dei Territori, IMI Corporate and Investment Banking, International Subsidiary Banks, Private Banking, Asset Management, Insurance, and Corporate Centre. The Banca dei Territori segment oversees the traditional lending and deposit collection activities in Italy. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Intesa Sanpaolo Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Intesa Sanpaolo and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund (NYSE:NMS Get Rating) was the target of a large decline in short interest in the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 17,000 shares, a decline of 17.9% from the April 30th total of 20,700 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 12,300 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 1.4 days. Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund Stock Performance Shares of Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund stock traded up $0.06 during trading on Tuesday, reaching $10.97. The companys stock had a trading volume of 9,078 shares, compared to its average volume of 11,955. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $11.56 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $11.72. Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund has a fifty-two week low of $10.33 and a fifty-two week high of $15.79. Get Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund alerts: Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 1st. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 15th will be issued a $0.036 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, May 12th. This represents a $0.43 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.94%. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund About Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of NMS. Captrust Financial Advisors purchased a new stake in shares of Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund during the 2nd quarter worth $30,000. Access Financial Services Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund during the 1st quarter worth $266,000. UBS Group AG boosted its position in shares of Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund by 12.6% in the 3rd quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 25,425 shares of the companys stock worth $306,000 after buying an additional 2,854 shares in the last quarter. Morgan Stanley boosted its position in shares of Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund by 26.2% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 29,297 shares of the companys stock worth $330,000 after buying an additional 6,076 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bank of America Corp DE boosted its position in shares of Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund by 731.5% in the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 31,598 shares of the companys stock worth $355,000 after buying an additional 27,798 shares in the last quarter. (Get Rating) Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Nuveen Investments, Inc The fund is co-managed by Nuveen Fund Advisors LLC and Nuveen Asset Management, LLC. It invests in the fixed income markets of the United States. The fund primarily invests in investment grade municipal securities that are exempt from regular federal and Minnesota personal income taxes. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Nuveen Minnesota Quality Municipal Income Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Adtalem Global Education Inc. (NYSE:ATGE Get Rating) saw a large growth in short interest in the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 1,390,000 shares, a growth of 6.1% from the April 30th total of 1,310,000 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 276,300 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 5.0 days. Currently, 3.3% of the companys shares are short sold. Adtalem Global Education Stock Down 0.9 % ATGE traded down $0.40 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $41.89. The companys stock had a trading volume of 222,097 shares, compared to its average volume of 260,099. Adtalem Global Education has a 1 year low of $30.49 and a 1 year high of $44.40. The stocks 50-day moving average is $40.10 and its 200-day moving average is $39.05. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.94, a PEG ratio of 0.68 and a beta of 1.02. The company has a current ratio of 1.22, a quick ratio of 1.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46. Get Adtalem Global Education alerts: Adtalem Global Education (NYSE:ATGE Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The company reported $1.13 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.92 by $0.21. The company had revenue of $369.10 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $354.47 million. Adtalem Global Education had a return on equity of 13.67% and a net margin of 5.54%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 1.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $0.87 EPS. As a group, research analysts expect that Adtalem Global Education will post 4.12 EPS for the current year. Insider Activity at Adtalem Global Education Hedge Funds Weigh In On Adtalem Global Education In related news, Director Lisa W. Wardell sold 7,940 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, May 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $41.24, for a total transaction of $327,445.60. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 275,528 shares in the company, valued at approximately $11,362,774.72. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink . In other Adtalem Global Education news, Director Lisa W. Wardell sold 7,940 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $41.24, for a total transaction of $327,445.60. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 275,528 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $11,362,774.72. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website . Also, Director Lisa W. Wardell sold 71,400 shares of Adtalem Global Education stock in a transaction on Monday, May 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $40.45, for a total transaction of $2,888,130.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 180,034 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,282,375.30. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . 3.30% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Versor Investments LP boosted its stake in Adtalem Global Education by 126.9% during the 4th quarter. Versor Investments LP now owns 25,750 shares of the companys stock valued at $914,000 after purchasing an additional 14,402 shares during the last quarter. Oliver Luxxe Assets LLC increased its holdings in Adtalem Global Education by 4.5% in the 4th quarter. Oliver Luxxe Assets LLC now owns 18,015 shares of the companys stock worth $640,000 after buying an additional 781 shares in the last quarter. Castleark Management LLC purchased a new position in Adtalem Global Education in the 3rd quarter worth about $3,033,000. Cambria Investment Management L.P. bought a new position in Adtalem Global Education during the 3rd quarter valued at about $5,740,000. Finally, State of Alaska Department of Revenue boosted its holdings in shares of Adtalem Global Education by 1.0% during the 4th quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 31,616 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,122,000 after acquiring an additional 320 shares during the last quarter. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several brokerages have commented on ATGE. TheStreet upgraded shares of Adtalem Global Education from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a report on Wednesday, May 3rd. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Adtalem Global Education in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a strong-buy rating for the company. Finally, Barrington Research reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $48.00 price target on shares of Adtalem Global Education in a research note on Friday, February 3rd. Adtalem Global Education Company Profile (Get Rating) Adtalem Global Education, Inc engages in the provision of workforce solutions. It operates through the following segments: Chamberlain, Walden, and Medical and Veterinary. The Chamberlain segment offers degree and non-degree programs in the nursing and health professions postsecondary education industry. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Adtalem Global Education Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Adtalem Global Education and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Your job isnt working out. Your career isnt going quite the way you envisioned. So you dejectedly stare out your 14th story office window, ready to take a suicidal plunge. Then a bus whizzes past. Dont Jump, the ad says from the top of the bus says. careerbuilder.com. You close the window, turn to the computer sitting behind you on your desk, and go to www.careerbuilder.com. Suddenly, your life is transformed. Thats the dry-witted concept behind an award- winning ad that a Richmond-based advertising firm, the Martin Agency, created for CareerBuilder Inc., a Reston-based Web site that offers career-building tips and job recruiting. The ad began appearing on buses in New York City and San Francisco late last year, and will appear again in those cities. And it was Jamie Mahoney, an art director at the Martin Agency who hails from Newport News, who created it. The company wanted us to develop unconventional ads, Mahoney said Tuesday from Richmond. I thought it would be a funny line for the top of a bus. The daughter of Air Force Col. Jim Brake and his wife, Binky, Jamie graduated in 1976 from Point Option, an alternative high school in Newport News that allows students to structure their own curriculum. She focused on advertising and broadcast. The Outdoor Advertising Association, an industry group founded in 1891, awarded the Martin Agency the Best of Show award for the bus ad at its annual OBIE Award ceremony in June. The Martin Agencys design team on the ad shared $50,000 for the award. The name OBIE is derived from the Egyptian Obelisk, a tall stone structure once used to publicize laws and treaties and considered by some to be the first form of outdoor advertising. Then the company won a bronze lion award in the Outdoor Advertising Media category at the Cannes Film Festival in France. It was one of a handful of 3rd place bronze lion winners at the fair. Mahoney, 41, left Newport News after high school to attend the Art Institute of Atlanta. She worked at ad agencies in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Michigan and Minnesota before moving to Richmond in 1990. Twelve years ago, a Los Angeles-based free-lance advertising writer, Marc Deschenes, came up with a Dont Jump idea for a sticker he used to promote his free-lance business. Mahoney helped him design the ad, a sticker that advertising executives could put in their windows with the idea that the executives could call on Deschenes in a pinch. I remembered the sticker and thought it would be a good line for the bus, Mahoney said. So I called Marc and told him I wanted to use it again. He said, Great. The idea was a natural fit: When people are at work, she said, they are often thinking about their careers. Theyre likely to be near their computers. And when theyre working in a high rise, they occasionally look out the window. Kate Dawson, marketing director at CareerBuilder.com, said the ad has been a success. It wasnt just the top of the bus, but the whole bus that was wrapped in CareerBuilder slogans, such as, Tell the truth at high school reunions, also designed by the Martin Agency. Although everybody on the Martin Agency team that designed the ad got some of the $50,000 in cash, Mahoney said she got the majority of it. Now shes using the money for a change of pace. The money, she said, will allow her to get a bit of a respite from the advertising business. Starting later this month, shell begin sculpture courses at the School of the Arts at Virginia Commonwealth University. I needed a break, she said. Ive been thinking about it for a while, but the money helped me to go ahead and do it. Companies behind the company Career Holdings, a joint venture between Knight-Ridder.com Inc. and Tribune Co., parent company of the Daily Press, recently made a cash offer to buy CareerBuilder Inc., a company based in Reston, based on a merger agreement reached July 16 with CareerBuilder. The deal must still be approved by CareerBuilder shareholders and pass muster with regulators. Peter Dujardin can be reached at 247-4749 or by e-mail at pdujardin@dailypress.com Antero Midstream Co. (NYSE:AM Get Rating) Equities researchers at Capital One Financial cut their FY2023 earnings estimates for shares of Antero Midstream in a research note issued to investors on Thursday, May 25th. Capital One Financial analyst W. Suki now anticipates that the pipeline company will post earnings of $0.73 per share for the year, down from their previous estimate of $0.74. Capital One Financial currently has a Equal Weight rating on the stock. The consensus estimate for Antero Midstreams current full-year earnings is $0.81 per share. Capital One Financial also issued estimates for Antero Midstreams FY2024 earnings at $0.86 EPS. Get Antero Midstream alerts: Several other equities research analysts have also commented on the stock. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Antero Midstream in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating on the stock. UBS Group started coverage on shares of Antero Midstream in a research report on Wednesday, May 10th. They set a buy rating and a $14.00 target price on the stock. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $12.33. Antero Midstream Price Performance Institutional Trading of Antero Midstream Shares of NYSE AM opened at $10.33 on Monday. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.95 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.97 and a beta of 2.36. Antero Midstream has a one year low of $8.56 and a one year high of $11.61. The companys fifty day moving average is $10.42 and its two-hundred day moving average is $10.65. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.53, a quick ratio of 1.02 and a current ratio of 1.02. A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of AM. ProShare Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of Antero Midstream by 147.8% during the 1st quarter. ProShare Advisors LLC now owns 51,106 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $536,000 after buying an additional 30,478 shares during the last quarter. Toroso Investments LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Antero Midstream during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $111,000. Ameriprise Financial Inc. raised its position in shares of Antero Midstream by 0.6% during the 1st quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 538,334 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $5,646,000 after acquiring an additional 2,993 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its position in shares of Antero Midstream by 5.3% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 1,060,309 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $11,122,000 after acquiring an additional 53,436 shares in the last quarter. Finally, B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Antero Midstream during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $105,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 52.21% of the companys stock. Insider Transactions at Antero Midstream In related news, insider Michael N. Kennedy sold 300,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $10.47, for a total value of $3,141,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 1,060,730 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $11,105,843.10. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, Director David H. Keyte acquired 10,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 15th. The stock was bought at an average price of $10.01 per share, with a total value of $100,100.00. Following the purchase, the director now directly owns 79,373 shares in the company, valued at approximately $794,523.73. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, insider Michael N. Kennedy sold 300,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $10.47, for a total value of $3,141,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now owns 1,060,730 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $11,105,843.10. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.80% of the companys stock. Antero Midstream Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, May 10th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, April 26th were paid a dividend of $0.225 per share. This represents a $0.90 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 8.71%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, April 25th. Antero Midstreams dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 130.43%. Antero Midstream Company Profile (Get Rating) Antero Midstream Corp. is a growth-oriented midstream energy company, which owns, operates, and develops midstream energy assets to service Antero Resources production and completion activity. It operates through the Gathering and Processing and Water Handling segments. The Gathering and Processing segment includes a network of gathering pipelines and compressor stations that collect and process production from Antero Resources wells in West Virginia and Ohio. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Antero Midstream Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Antero Midstream and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. StockNews.com cut shares of Belden (NYSE:BDC Get Rating) from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report sent to investors on Saturday morning. A number of other analysts have also issued reports on the stock. Loop Capital boosted their target price on shares of Belden from $95.00 to $110.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 9th. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their price objective on shares of Belden from $76.00 to $87.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, February 9th. Truist Financial upped their price objective on shares of Belden from $93.00 to $103.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 9th. Finally, Benchmark upped their price objective on shares of Belden from $88.00 to $108.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 14th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $98.80. Get Belden alerts: Belden Trading Down 1.7 % Shares of BDC opened at $88.26 on Friday. The companys fifty day moving average is $82.25 and its 200 day moving average is $81.11. Belden has a fifty-two week low of $47.89 and a fifty-two week high of $92.33. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.76 billion, a PE ratio of 13.77 and a beta of 1.31. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.04, a quick ratio of 2.00 and a current ratio of 2.70. Belden Announces Dividend Belden ( NYSE:BDC Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 3rd. The industrial products company reported $1.68 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.55 by $0.13. Belden had a net margin of 10.69% and a return on equity of 26.83%. The business had revenue of $641.79 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $624.46 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $1.31 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 5.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts expect that Belden will post 7.11 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, July 6th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be given a dividend of $0.05 per share. This represents a $0.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.23%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, June 14th. Beldens payout ratio is 3.12%. Insider Activity In related news, Director Jonathan C. Klein sold 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $81.49, for a total value of $203,725.00. Following the transaction, the director now owns 11,553 shares in the company, valued at approximately $941,453.97. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Corporate insiders own 1.42% of the companys stock. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Verition Fund Management LLC purchased a new position in Belden in the 3rd quarter valued at $281,000. Retirement Systems of Alabama increased its stake in shares of Belden by 5.9% in the 4th quarter. Retirement Systems of Alabama now owns 213,919 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $15,381,000 after acquiring an additional 11,936 shares during the last quarter. Frontier Capital Management Co. LLC increased its stake in shares of Belden by 9.3% in the 3rd quarter. Frontier Capital Management Co. LLC now owns 705,187 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $42,325,000 after acquiring an additional 60,033 shares during the last quarter. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of Belden by 18.0% in the 4th quarter. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC now owns 2,030 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $146,000 after acquiring an additional 309 shares during the last quarter. Finally, FORA Capital LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Belden in the 4th quarter worth $417,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 99.88% of the companys stock. About Belden (Get Rating) Belden, Inc engages in the provision of innovative signal transmission solutions. It operates through the Enterprise Solutions and Industrial Solutions segments. The Enterprise Solutions segment offers network infrastructure solutions, as well as cabling and connectivity solutions for broadcast, commercial audio/video, and security applications. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Belden Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Belden and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Causeway Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Crescent Point Energy Corp. (NYSE:CPG Get Rating) (TSE:CPG) during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 466,196 shares of the oil and gas producers stock, valued at approximately $3,324,000. Causeway Capital Management LLC owned 0.08% of Crescent Point Energy as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of CPG. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Crescent Point Energy during the 1st quarter worth $50,000. Lazard Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Crescent Point Energy during the 1st quarter worth $62,000. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Crescent Point Energy by 61.9% during the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 10,866 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $67,000 after acquiring an additional 4,156 shares in the last quarter. Creative Planning bought a new stake in shares of Crescent Point Energy during the 2nd quarter worth $81,000. Finally, Equitable Holdings Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Crescent Point Energy during the 3rd quarter worth $93,000. 32.71% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Crescent Point Energy alerts: Crescent Point Energy Stock Down 3.7 % Shares of Crescent Point Energy stock traded down $0.24 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $6.29. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,315,948 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,302,502. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.41 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.20 and a beta of 2.22. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $7.06 and a 200-day simple moving average of $7.09. The company has a quick ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. Crescent Point Energy Corp. has a 1-year low of $5.51 and a 1-year high of $10.96. Crescent Point Energy Cuts Dividend Crescent Point Energy ( NYSE:CPG Get Rating ) (TSE:CPG) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, March 2nd. The oil and gas producer reported $0.28 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.29 by ($0.01). Crescent Point Energy had a return on equity of 13.81% and a net margin of 12.59%. The business had revenue of $748.85 million during the quarter. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Crescent Point Energy Corp. will post 1.21 earnings per share for the current year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, July 4th. Investors of record on Thursday, June 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.074 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, June 14th. This represents a $0.30 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.71%. Crescent Point Energys dividend payout ratio is 40.85%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research firms have recently weighed in on CPG. StockNews.com began coverage on Crescent Point Energy in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating for the company. Raymond James raised Crescent Point Energy from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, March 22nd. About Crescent Point Energy (Get Rating) Crescent Point Energy Corp. engages in the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas properties. Its focus areas include: Viewfield Bakken, Flat Lake Torquay, and Shaunavon. The company was founded on April 20, 1994 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Crescent Point Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Crescent Point Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Choreo LLC trimmed its position in Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT Get Rating) by 1.2% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 8,655 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after selling 104 shares during the quarter. Choreo LLCs holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $950,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of ABT. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership lifted its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 83.1% in the 1st quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 4,925,012 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $582,924,000 after buying an additional 2,235,314 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 1.3% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 154,563,421 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $14,955,557,000 after acquiring an additional 2,011,683 shares during the period. Renaissance Technologies LLC increased its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 99.8% in the 1st quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 3,140,866 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $371,753,000 after acquiring an additional 1,568,700 shares during the period. Putnam Investments LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 30.0% in the 3rd quarter. Putnam Investments LLC now owns 4,466,075 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $432,137,000 after buying an additional 1,031,013 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Two Sigma Investments LP boosted its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 126.1% in the 3rd quarter. Two Sigma Investments LP now owns 1,656,522 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $160,285,000 after buying an additional 923,720 shares in the last quarter. 72.93% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Abbott Laboratories alerts: Abbott Laboratories Stock Down 0.8 % NYSE:ABT traded down $0.86 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $100.85. The stock had a trading volume of 906,893 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,030,706. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $105.92 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $106.49. The company has a market capitalization of $175.37 billion, a PE ratio of 30.59, a PEG ratio of 4.61 and a beta of 0.67. Abbott Laboratories has a twelve month low of $93.25 and a twelve month high of $118.23. The company has a current ratio of 1.68, a quick ratio of 1.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39. Insider Activity Abbott Laboratories ( NYSE:ABT Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, April 19th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.03 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.98 by $0.05. The company had revenue of $9.75 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $9.64 billion. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 13.98% and a return on equity of 22.36%. Abbott Laboratoriess revenue for the quarter was down 18.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $1.73 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Abbott Laboratories will post 4.38 EPS for the current year. In other news, Director Daniel J. Starks sold 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on 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 transaction, the director now owns 6,825,316 shares of the companys stock, valued at $757,746,582.32. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, Director Daniel J. Starks sold 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on 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 transaction, the director now owns 6,825,316 shares of the companys stock, valued at $757,746,582.32. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, EVP Andrea F. Wainer sold 8,226 shares of Abbott Laboratories stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, May 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $110.56, for a total transaction of $909,466.56. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 70,427 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,786,409.12. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts have recently weighed in on ABT shares. Citigroup raised their price target on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, April 19th. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Abbott Laboratories in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Morgan Stanley lowered shares of Abbott Laboratories from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating and set a $112.00 price objective on the stock. in a report on Tuesday. Sanford C. Bernstein upped their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $132.00 to $133.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. Finally, Barclays lifted their price target on Abbott Laboratories from $125.00 to $127.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and eleven have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $121.26. 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. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ABT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Abbott Laboratories Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Abbott Laboratories and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Eaton Co. plc (NYSE:ETN Get Rating) has received an average recommendation of Moderate Buy from the sixteen research firms that are covering the firm, Marketbeat reports. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, four have given a buy recommendation and one has issued a strong buy recommendation on the company. The average 12-month price target among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $178.77. ETN has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised their price target on Eaton from $188.00 to $189.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, April 12th. Bank of America upped their price target on shares of Eaton from $180.00 to $200.00 in a research report on Wednesday, March 8th. Barclays increased their price objective on shares of Eaton from $145.00 to $159.00 in a report on Wednesday, May 3rd. 92 Resources reiterated a maintains rating on shares of Eaton in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price target on shares of Eaton from $180.00 to $170.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Thursday, April 13th. Get Eaton alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other Eaton news, insider Joao V. Faria sold 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $176.71, for a total value of $441,775.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 71,314 shares in the company, valued at $12,601,896.94. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, insider Joao V. Faria sold 2,500 shares of Eaton stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $176.71, for a total transaction of $441,775.00. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 71,314 shares in the company, valued at approximately $12,601,896.94. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, insider Brian S. Brickhouse sold 21,347 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $176.97, for a total value of $3,777,778.59. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 15,905 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,814,707.85. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.53% of the stock is owned by insiders. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Eaton Eaton Stock Performance A number of large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in ETN. RB Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Eaton by 3.5% during the first quarter. RB Capital Management LLC now owns 2,759 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $419,000 after buying an additional 94 shares in the last quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board lifted its position in shares of Eaton by 74.8% in the first quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 101,412 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $15,390,000 after purchasing an additional 43,381 shares in the last quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. boosted its holdings in Eaton by 0.6% during the first quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 374,204 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $56,790,000 after purchasing an additional 2,057 shares during the last quarter. Mather Group LLC. grew its position in Eaton by 9.1% in the first quarter. Mather Group LLC. now owns 2,682 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $407,000 after purchasing an additional 223 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Ergoteles LLC acquired a new stake in Eaton in the 1st quarter valued at $1,188,000. Institutional investors own 80.19% of the companys stock. Shares of NYSE:ETN opened at $181.83 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50, a current ratio of 1.50 and a quick ratio of 0.91. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $167.42 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $165.26. Eaton has a fifty-two week low of $122.50 and a fifty-two week high of $184.97. The stock has a market capitalization of $72.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.37, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.97 and a beta of 1.12. Eaton (NYSE:ETN Get Rating) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The industrial products company reported $1.88 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.78 by $0.10. The business had revenue of $5.50 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.23 billion. Eaton had a net margin of 12.00% and a return on equity of 18.70%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 13.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.62 EPS. As a group, analysts predict that Eaton will post 8.44 EPS for the current fiscal year. Eaton Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 26th. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 8th were paid a $0.86 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, May 5th. This represents a $3.44 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.89%. Eatons dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 53.67%. Eaton Company Profile (Get Rating) Eaton Corp. Plc is a power management company, which provides energy-efficient solutions for electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical power. It operates through the following segments: Electrical Americas and Electrical Global, Aerospace, Vehicle, and eMobility. The Electrical Americas and Electrical Global segments engage in sales contracts for electrical components, industrial components, power distribution and assemblies, residential products, single and three phase power quality, wiring devices, circuit protection, utility power distribution, power reliability equipment, and service. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Eaton Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eaton and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its position in Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT Get Rating) by 1.3% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 24,855,493 shares of the retailers stock after purchasing an additional 313,686 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC owned approximately 0.92% of Walmart worth $3,516,639,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in shares of Walmart by 1.4% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 130,176,496 shares of the retailers stock valued at $16,883,890,000 after acquiring an additional 1,832,388 shares in the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. raised its stake in shares of Walmart by 2.9% during the third quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 96,570,711 shares of the retailers stock valued at $12,525,224,000 after acquiring an additional 2,712,886 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp raised its stake in shares of Walmart by 1.2% during the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 60,659,193 shares of the retailers stock valued at $7,867,497,000 after acquiring an additional 701,415 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its stake in shares of Walmart by 0.3% during the third quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 11,685,848 shares of the retailers stock valued at $1,515,655,000 after acquiring an additional 33,452 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its stake 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 valued at $1,623,951,000 after acquiring an additional 303,726 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 31.27% of the companys stock. Get Walmart alerts: Insider Activity at Walmart In other news, major shareholder Alice L. Walton sold 600 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $150.02, for a total transaction of $90,012.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 245,255,856 shares in the company, valued at approximately $36,793,283,517.12. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In related news, major shareholder Alice L. Walton sold 600 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $150.02, for a total transaction of $90,012.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 245,255,856 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $36,793,283,517.12. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, major shareholder Jim C. Walton sold 536,493 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $140.47, for a total transaction of $75,361,171.71. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 264,304,281 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $37,126,822,352.07. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 18,963,984 shares of company stock valued at $2,687,347,558. Corporate insiders own 47.06% of the companys stock. Walmart Price Performance Shares of Walmart stock traded up $0.93 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $146.99. The stock had a trading volume of 3,576,931 shares, compared to its average volume of 6,167,286. The stocks 50 day moving average is $149.08 and its 200 day moving average is $146.02. The firm has a market capitalization of $396.48 billion, a PE ratio of 35.22, a PEG ratio of 4.29 and a beta of 0.48. Walmart Inc. has a twelve month low of $117.90 and a twelve month high of $154.64. The company has a current ratio of 0.82, a quick ratio of 0.23 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71. Walmart (NYSE:WMT Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 18th. The retailer reported $1.47 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.32 by $0.15. Walmart had a net margin of 1.82% and a return on equity of 21.30%. The company had revenue of $152.30 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $147.91 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.30 EPS. Walmarts revenue was up 7.6% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts expect that Walmart Inc. will post 6.21 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities analysts recently issued reports on WMT shares. The Goldman Sachs Group set a $164.00 price objective on shares of Walmart in a report on Wednesday, February 22nd. Barclays lifted their price objective on shares of Walmart from $159.00 to $162.00 in a report on Sunday, May 21st. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price objective on shares of Walmart from $160.00 to $164.00 in a report on Friday, May 19th. Truist Financial lifted their price target on shares of Walmart from $160.00 to $166.00 in a report on Friday, May 19th. Finally, Citigroup lifted their price target on shares of Walmart from $169.00 to $174.00 in a report on Friday, May 19th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-four have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $166.13. Walmart 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. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WMT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Walmart Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Walmart and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF Get Rating) have been assigned a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the sixteen research firms that are presently covering the firm, MarketBeat reports. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 12-month price objective among brokerages that have covered the stock in the last year is $114.13. Several research firms have issued reports on IFF. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reduced their price objective on International Flavors & Fragrances from $120.00 to $110.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Friday, February 10th. Barclays dropped their target price on shares of International Flavors & Fragrances from $81.00 to $75.00 in a research report on Thursday, May 11th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of International Flavors & Fragrances in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a sell rating for the company. Morgan Stanley dropped their target price on shares of International Flavors & Fragrances from $136.00 to $125.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. Finally, UBS Group upped their target price on shares of International Flavors & Fragrances from $126.00 to $128.00 in a research report on Tuesday, May 9th. Get International Flavors & Fragrances alerts: International Flavors & Fragrances Stock Down 0.0 % NYSE:IFF opened at $78.25 on Wednesday. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $89.58 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $97.68. International Flavors & Fragrances has a 52-week low of $76.83 and a 52-week high of $135.17. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a quick ratio of 0.92 and a current ratio of 1.53. The company has a market cap of $19.96 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -9.52, a P/E/G ratio of 4.37 and a beta of 1.08. International Flavors & Fragrances Announces Dividend International Flavors & Fragrances ( NYSE:IFF Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, May 8th. The specialty chemicals company reported $0.87 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.89 by ($0.02). International Flavors & Fragrances had a positive return on equity of 6.64% and a negative net margin of 17.12%. The firm had revenue of $3.03 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.98 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $1.69 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was down 6.2% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts anticipate that International Flavors & Fragrances will post 4.69 EPS for the current year. The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, July 11th. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 23rd will be issued a $0.81 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 22nd. This represents a $3.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.14%. International Flavors & Fragrancess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is -39.42%. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, insider De Villeplee Christoph Fauchon sold 1,972 shares of International Flavors & Fragrances stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $86.35, for a total value of $170,282.20. Following the sale, the insider now owns 9,093 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $785,180.55. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. 0.20% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On International Flavors & Fragrances Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Biltmore Family Office LLC acquired a new stake in International Flavors & Fragrances in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $327,000. Westpac Banking Corp increased its position in shares of International Flavors & Fragrances by 6.2% during the 4th quarter. Westpac Banking Corp now owns 65,381 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $6,855,000 after purchasing an additional 3,841 shares during the last quarter. Prudential PLC increased its position in shares of International Flavors & Fragrances by 179.9% during the 4th quarter. Prudential PLC now owns 14,047 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $1,473,000 after purchasing an additional 9,029 shares during the last quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System increased its position in shares of International Flavors & Fragrances by 15.9% during the 3rd quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System now owns 570,183 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $51,790,000 after purchasing an additional 78,166 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund increased its position in shares of International Flavors & Fragrances by 39.7% during the 3rd quarter. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund now owns 73,300 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $6,658,000 after purchasing an additional 20,831 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 88.86% of the companys stock. About International Flavors & Fragrances (Get Rating) International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc engages in the manufacture and supply of flavors and fragrances used in the food, beverage, personal care, and household products industries. It operates through the following segments: Nourish, Health & Biosciences, Scent and Pharma Solutions. The Nourish segment consists of legacy Taste segment combined with N&Bs Food & Beverage division and the food protection business of N&Bs Health & Biosciences division. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for International Flavors & Fragrances Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for International Flavors & Fragrances and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. McDonalds Co. (NYSE:MCD Get Rating) announced a quarterly dividend on Thursday, May 25th, RTT News reports. Stockholders of record on Monday, June 5th will be paid a dividend of 1.52 per share by the fast-food giant on Tuesday, June 20th. This represents a $6.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.13%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, June 2nd. McDonalds has increased its dividend by an average of 6.2% per year over the last three years and has raised its dividend annually for the last 46 consecutive years. McDonalds has a payout ratio of 50.2% indicating that its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities research analysts expect McDonalds to earn $12.08 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $6.08 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 50.3%. Get McDonald's alerts: McDonalds Trading Down 0.4 % Shares of NYSE:MCD opened at $284.92 on Wednesday. McDonalds has a 12-month low of $230.58 and a 12-month high of $298.86. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $287.95 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $275.36. The firm has a market cap of $208.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.57, a PEG ratio of 3.02 and a beta of 0.63. Insider Buying and Selling at McDonalds McDonalds ( NYSE:MCD Get Rating ) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The fast-food giant reported $2.63 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.31 by $0.32. McDonalds had a net margin of 29.36% and a negative return on equity of 124.87%. The firm had revenue of $5.90 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.58 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $2.28 earnings per share. McDonaldss revenue was up 4.1% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts forecast that McDonalds will post 11.03 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. In other McDonalds news, SVP Catherine A. Hoovel sold 840 shares of McDonalds stock in a transaction on Monday, May 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $298.77, for a total transaction of $250,966.80. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 891 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $266,204.07. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other McDonalds news, SVP Catherine A. Hoovel sold 840 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $298.77, for a total transaction of $250,966.80. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 891 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $266,204.07. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, insider Jo Sempels sold 6,425 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred 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 completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 730 shares of the companys stock, valued at $215,423. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 10,667 shares of company stock valued at $3,155,167 in the last ninety days. Company insiders own 0.18% of the companys stock. Institutional Trading of McDonalds Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Centaurus Financial Inc. raised its position in McDonalds by 18.8% in the first quarter. Centaurus Financial Inc. now owns 2,969 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $830,000 after acquiring an additional 469 shares in the last quarter. Wagner Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in McDonalds during the first quarter valued at approximately $242,000. Providence Capital Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in McDonalds by 27,860.4% during the first quarter. Providence Capital Advisors LLC now owns 14,819 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $53,000 after buying an additional 14,766 shares in the last quarter. Pacific Center for Financial Services acquired a new position in McDonalds in the first quarter worth approximately $105,000. Finally, MidWestOne Financial Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of McDonalds by 6.6% during the 1st quarter. MidWestOne Financial Group Inc. now owns 3,283 shares of the fast-food giants stock valued at $918,000 after acquiring an additional 204 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 66.86% of the companys stock. Analysts Set New Price Targets MCD has been the subject of several research reports. Credit Suisse Group boosted 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. Stifel Nicolaus raised their price objective on McDonalds from $270.00 to $290.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Friday, April 21st. Guggenheim boosted their price target on McDonalds from $305.00 to $325.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 26th. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price objective on shares of McDonalds from $315.00 to $320.00 in a research note on Thursday, April 6th. Finally, Tigress Financial boosted their target price on shares of McDonalds from $320.00 to $330.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 8th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twenty-four have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target 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. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for McDonald's Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for McDonald's and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft began coverage on shares of NVR (NYSE:NVR Get Rating) in a research note issued to investors on Wednesday, The Fly reports. The firm set a sell rating on the construction companys stock. A number of other analysts have also recently issued reports on NVR. KeyCorp raised their target price on shares of NVR from $5,120.00 to $6,000.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, February 6th. StockNews.com cut shares of NVR from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $4,956.00. Get NVR alerts: NVR Stock Down 1.2 % NVR stock traded down $66.99 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $5,554.22. The companys stock had a trading volume of 93,473 shares, compared to its average volume of 23,240. The company has a market capitalization of $18.05 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.12 and a beta of 0.99. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24, a quick ratio of 3.63 and a current ratio of 5.75. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $5,687.22 and its 200 day simple moving average is $5,188.23. NVR has a 12 month low of $3,576.01 and a 12 month high of $5,986.96. Insider Buying and Selling at NVR NVR ( NYSE:NVR Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The construction company reported $99.89 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $88.96 by $10.93. The firm had revenue of $2.13 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.09 billion. NVR had a net margin of 16.20% and a return on equity of 48.97%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 7.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $116.56 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts anticipate that NVR will post 423.83 earnings per share for the current year. In other news, Chairman Paul C. Saville sold 3,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $5,800.54, for a total value of $17,401,620.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chairman now directly owns 106,860 shares in the company, valued at approximately $619,845,704.40. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In related news, Chairman Paul C. Saville sold 2,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, May 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $5,877.00, for a total transaction of $11,754,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chairman now directly owns 106,860 shares in the company, valued at approximately $628,016,220. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Chairman Paul C. Saville sold 3,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $5,800.54, for a total transaction of $17,401,620.00. Following the transaction, the chairman now owns 106,860 shares of the companys stock, valued at $619,845,704.40. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 13,310 shares of company stock valued at $77,730,646 in the last quarter. Company insiders own 8.60% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On NVR Institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. increased its position in NVR by 22,694.4% in the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 1,377,467 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $37,378,000 after acquiring an additional 1,371,424 shares during the period. Proficio Capital Partners LLC boosted its stake in shares of NVR by 548,675.8% in the 1st quarter. Proficio Capital Partners LLC now owns 362,192 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $362,000 after purchasing an additional 362,126 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new stake in shares of NVR in the 4th quarter valued at $138,433,000. Boston Partners boosted its stake in shares of NVR by 108.8% in the 4th quarter. Boston Partners now owns 48,666 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $224,526,000 after purchasing an additional 25,355 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Citadel Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of NVR by 465.3% in the 3rd quarter. Citadel Advisors LLC now owns 22,895 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $91,284,000 after purchasing an additional 18,845 shares during the last quarter. 82.96% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. About NVR (Get Rating) NVR, Inc engages in the construction and sale of single-family detached homes, townhomes and condominium buildings. It operates through the following geographical segments: Mid Atlantic, North East, Mid East, and South East. The company was founded in 1980 and is headquartered in Reston, VA. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for NVR Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NVR and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Select Medical Holdings Co. (NYSE:SEM Get Rating) Investment analysts at Zacks Research lifted their Q1 2024 earnings per share estimates for Select Medical in a research report issued on Thursday, May 25th. Zacks Research analyst D. Chatterjee now expects that the health services provider will post earnings per share of $0.57 for the quarter, up from their prior estimate of $0.56. The consensus estimate for Select Medicals current full-year earnings is $1.84 per share. Zacks Research also issued estimates for Select Medicals FY2024 earnings at $2.34 EPS and FY2025 earnings at $2.71 EPS. Get Select Medical alerts: Select Medical (NYSE:SEM Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings results on Friday, May 5th. The health services provider reported $0.56 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.37 by $0.19. Select Medical had a return on equity of 13.35% and a net margin of 2.82%. The business had revenue of $1.67 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.65 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $0.37 EPS. Select Medicals revenue for the quarter was up 4.1% on a year-over-year basis. Select Medical Trading Up 0.7 % SEM has been the topic of several other research reports. TheStreet raised Select Medical from a c+ rating to a b rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 17th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lifted their target price on Select Medical from $35.00 to $37.00 in a research note on Monday, May 8th. Credit Suisse Group boosted their price target on Select Medical from $24.00 to $29.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, February 27th. StockNews.com began coverage on Select Medical in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price target on Select Medical from $32.00 to $38.00 in a research note on Monday, May 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $35.75. NYSE:SEM opened at $27.30 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.66. Select Medical has a 1-year low of $18.86 and a 1-year high of $32.31. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.47 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.23, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.98 and a beta of 1.39. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $27.81 and a 200 day simple moving average of $26.87. Select Medical Announces Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 31st. Stockholders of record on Thursday, May 18th will be given a dividend of $0.125 per share. This represents a $0.50 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.83%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, May 17th. Select Medicals dividend payout ratio is presently 35.21%. Insider Activity In other news, Chairman Robert A. Ortenzio sold 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $29.68, for a total transaction of $1,484,000.00. Following the sale, the chairman now directly owns 6,989,668 shares in the company, valued at $207,453,346.24. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other Select Medical news, VP Robert G. Breighner, Jr. sold 10,044 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, May 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $29.45, for a total value of $295,795.80. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 32,989 shares in the company, valued at $971,526.05. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Chairman Robert A. Ortenzio sold 50,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, May 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $29.68, for a total value of $1,484,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chairman now owns 6,989,668 shares in the company, valued at $207,453,346.24. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 19.14% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Institutional Trading of Select Medical Several large investors have recently made changes to their positions in SEM. Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its holdings in shares of Select Medical by 0.8% during the first quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 1,478,832 shares of the health services providers stock worth $35,478,000 after purchasing an additional 11,231 shares during the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Select Medical by 46.7% during the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 59,542 shares of the health services providers stock valued at $1,428,000 after acquiring an additional 18,949 shares during the period. Rhumbline Advisers lifted its stake in shares of Select Medical by 6.7% during the first quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 284,568 shares of the health services providers stock valued at $6,827,000 after acquiring an additional 17,762 shares during the period. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS lifted its stake in shares of Select Medical by 14.1% during the first quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 91,360 shares of the health services providers stock valued at $2,192,000 after acquiring an additional 11,264 shares during the period. Finally, BlackRock Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Select Medical by 4.3% during the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 18,575,139 shares of the health services providers stock valued at $445,617,000 after acquiring an additional 762,219 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 78.75% of the companys stock. About Select Medical (Get Rating) Select Medical Holdings Corp. engages in the provision of medical rehabilitation services. It operates through the following business segments: Critical Illness Recovery Hospital, Rehabilitation Hospital, Outpatient Rehabilitation and Concentra. The Critical Illness Recovery Hospital segment serves patients with debilitating injuries and rehabilitation needs that cannot be adequately cared in a medically intensive environment, such as a skilled nursing facility. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Select Medical Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Select Medical and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. As families of victims of the 2019 mass shooting at a municipal building gathered Wednesday afternoon at the Oceanfront, the cloud-covered sky gave way to the sun. Today is about new beginnings, said former Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax, who addressed the crowd of about 65 people, many wearing matching Virginia Beach 5/31 Families United T-shirts. Fairfax, who is representing the coalition of families in their fight for compensation from the commonwealth, assured them change is on the way. On May 31, 2019, a city employee shot and killed 12 people at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center. The commemoration event at 31st Street Park was organized separately from the city vigil to be held later in the evening at City Hall. Family members embrace during a vigil on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at Neptunes Park in Virginia Beach, Va. marking four years since a gunman opened fire in a municipal building claiming the lives of 12 people. As they hugged each other and spoke of their loved ones, it was clear many of the family members are finding a new source of healing in their togetherness. I feel like we should have been doing this all along, said Ervin Cox, brother of Keith Cox, who died in the shooting. A dozen members of New Hope Baptist Church, where Cox was an active member, stood with his family. Other supporters included Michelle Bailey-Pittman, who worked for the city for 23 years. Her office faced Building 2. I feel like I had to be here out of respect for friends and coworkers, she said. It just breaks my heart every year. A moment of silence was held at 4:06 p.m., when the first 911 call reporting the shooting came in. Tidewater Pipes & Drums performed Amazing Grace, and families released 12 doves into the air. Four Virginia Beach City Council members attended: Michael Berlucchi, Worth Remick, Chris Taylor and Sabrina Wooten. Virginia Del. Anne Ferrell Tata and Attorney General Jason Miyares also attended. Stacy Parker, 757-222-5125, stacy.parker@pilotonline.com Rollins, Inc. (NYSE:ROL Get Rating) major shareholder Timothy Curtis Rollins sold 17,982 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $41.42, for a total transaction of $744,814.44. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 138,964 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,755,888.88. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Major shareholders that own more than 10% of a companys shares are required to disclose their sales and purchases with the SEC. Rollins Stock Down 0.3 % ROL traded down $0.10 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $39.32. 7,820,474 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,402,584. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $39.69 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $38.05. The company has a market cap of $19.38 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 51.06 and a beta of 0.66. Rollins, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $31.43 and a fifty-two week high of $43.06. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05, a current ratio of 0.79 and a quick ratio of 0.72. Get Rollins alerts: Rollins (NYSE:ROL Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 26th. The business services provider reported $0.18 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.17 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $658.02 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $643.78 million. Rollins had a net margin of 13.77% and a return on equity of 31.07%. The businesss revenue was up 11.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.15 EPS. As a group, analysts forecast that Rollins, Inc. will post 0.85 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Rollins Dividend Announcement Institutional Investors Weigh In On Rollins The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 9th. Investors of record on Wednesday, May 10th will be issued a dividend of $0.13 per share. This represents a $0.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.32%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, May 9th. Rollinss payout ratio is 67.53%. A number of large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in ROL. Ridgewood Investments LLC bought a new position in Rollins during the 1st quarter valued at $26,000. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC bought a new position in Rollins during the 2nd quarter valued at $29,000. KB Financial Partners LLC bought a new position in Rollins during the 1st quarter valued at $32,000. Tobam bought a new position in Rollins during the 4th quarter valued at $33,000. Finally, Carmel Capital Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of Rollins in the 1st quarter worth about $34,000. 38.98% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several research firms have recently issued reports on ROL. Stifel Nicolaus increased their price objective on shares of Rollins from $37.00 to $40.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Rollins in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Finally, Redburn Partners began coverage on shares of Rollins in a research report on Wednesday, February 1st. They issued a buy rating and a $62.00 price objective for the company. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Rollins has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $43.40. 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. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Rollins Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rollins and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Temple Bar Investment Trust PLC (LON:TMPL Get Rating) announced a dividend on Tuesday, May 9th, Upcoming.Co.Uk reports. Investors of record on Thursday, June 1st will be given a dividend of GBX 2.30 ($0.03) per share on Friday, June 30th. This represents a dividend yield of 1%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 1st. The official announcement can be seen at this link. Temple Bar Investment Trust Stock Down 1.7 % LON TMPL opened at GBX 222.24 ($2.75) on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 10.28, a current ratio of 9.95 and a quick ratio of 3.68. The companys 50 day simple moving average is GBX 231.13 and its 200 day simple moving average is GBX 231.99. Temple Bar Investment Trust has a 12 month low of GBX 195.20 ($2.41) and a 12 month high of GBX 249.50 ($3.08). The company has a market capitalization of 682.59 million, a P/E ratio of -4,520.00 and a beta of 1.17. Get Temple Bar Investment Trust alerts: About Temple Bar Investment Trust (Get Rating) Read More Temple Bar Investment Trust PLC is a closed-ended equity mutual fund launched and managed by RWC Asset Management LLP. The fund invests in the public equity markets of the United Kingdom. It seeks to invests in stocks of companies operating across diversified sectors. The fund primarily invests in stocks of companies across all market capitalizations, which are constituents of the FTSE 350 Index. Receive News & Ratings for Temple Bar Investment Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Temple Bar Investment Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Tesco PLC (LON:TSCO Get Rating) have been given a consensus recommendation of Buy by the six analysts that are covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a buy recommendation. The average 1 year price target among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is GBX 312 ($3.86). TSCO has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Shore Capital restated a buy rating on shares of Tesco in a research note on Monday, May 22nd. Jefferies Financial Group upgraded Tesco to a buy rating and lifted their price objective for the company from GBX 260 ($3.21) to GBX 310 ($3.83) in a research note on Monday, March 6th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on Tesco from GBX 270 ($3.34) to GBX 290 ($3.58) and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, April 18th. Get Tesco alerts: Tesco Stock Down 0.0 % Tesco stock opened at GBX 262.10 ($3.24) on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 123.29, a current ratio of 0.72 and a quick ratio of 0.60. The stock has a market capitalization of 19.13 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 2,622.00, a PEG ratio of 3.50 and a beta of 0.64. Tesco has a 1-year low of GBX 194.35 ($2.40) and a 1-year high of GBX 285.30 ($3.53). The business has a fifty day moving average price of GBX 269.92 and a 200-day moving average price of GBX 250.93. Tesco Increases Dividend Tesco Company Profile The firm also recently declared a dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 23rd. Investors of record on Thursday, May 11th will be paid a GBX 7.05 ($0.09) dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 2.63%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, May 11th. This is a positive change from Tescos previous dividend of $3.85. Tescos payout ratio is currently 11,000.00%. (Get Rating) Tesco PLC, together with its subsidiaries, engages in retailing and retail banking activities. It provides food products through approximately 4,752 stores in the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary, as well as through online. The company is also involved in the food and drink wholesaling activities. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Tesco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tesco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Vodafone Group Public (LON:VOD Get Rating) had its price objective lifted by research analysts at Barclays from GBX 100 ($1.24) to GBX 115 ($1.42) in a research note issued on Wednesday, The Fly reports. Barclayss price objective indicates a potential upside of 50.57% from the companys current price. Several other analysts have also recently weighed in on the stock. Citigroup reissued a neutral rating on shares of Vodafone Group Public in a research note on Tuesday. The Goldman Sachs Group set a GBX 130 ($1.61) price target on shares of Vodafone Group Public in a research note on Monday, February 27th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft set a GBX 185 ($2.29) price target on shares of Vodafone Group Public in a research note on Monday, March 27th. Numis Securities reissued a buy rating and issued a GBX 130 ($1.61) price target on shares of Vodafone Group Public in a research note on Tuesday, February 14th. Finally, Credit Suisse Group reiterated an underperform rating and issued a GBX 90 ($1.11) target price on shares of Vodafone Group Public in a report on Thursday, February 2nd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of GBX 114.50 ($1.41). Get Vodafone Group Public alerts: Vodafone Group Public Price Performance Shares of Vodafone Group Public stock traded down GBX 1.37 ($0.02) during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching GBX 76.38 ($0.94). The stock had a trading volume of 375,986,300 shares, compared to its average volume of 90,168,969. The stocks 50 day moving average is GBX 89.56 and its 200 day moving average is GBX 91.46. The firm has a market capitalization of 20.61 billion, a PE ratio of 212.16, a PEG ratio of 0.59 and a beta of 0.56. Vodafone Group Public has a twelve month low of GBX 74.38 ($0.92) and a twelve month high of GBX 132.04 ($1.63). The company has a current ratio of 0.89, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 103.71. Vodafone Group Public Company Profile Vodafone Group Public Limited Company engages in telecommunication services in Europe and internationally. The company offers mobile services that enable customers to call, text, and access data; fixed line services, including broadband, television (TV) offerings, and voice; and convergence services under the GigaKombi and Vodafone One names to customers. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Vodafone Group Public Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vodafone Group Public and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wintrust Investments LLC increased its holdings in shares of The Southern Company (NYSE:SO Get Rating) by 39.0% in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 4,613 shares of the utilities providers stock after acquiring an additional 1,295 shares during the period. Wintrust Investments LLCs holdings in Southern were worth $329,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in SO. Prudential PLC lifted its position in Southern by 23.4% in the 1st quarter. Prudential PLC now owns 19,438 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,409,000 after acquiring an additional 3,689 shares in the last quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust lifted its stake in Southern by 33.5% during the 1st quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 1,727 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $126,000 after acquiring an additional 433 shares in the last quarter. Covestor Ltd grew its stake in shares of Southern by 63.0% in the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 1,902 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $138,000 after acquiring an additional 735 shares in the last quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of Southern by 0.4% in the first quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 49,925 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $3,621,000 after purchasing an additional 221 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Mackenzie Financial Corp increased its stake in Southern by 35.8% in the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 907,132 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $65,776,000 after buying an additional 239,325 shares during the last quarter. 61.78% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Southern alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets SO has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. VNET Group reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of Southern in a report on Friday, April 28th. Mizuho cut their price target on Southern from $77.00 to $76.00 in a research note on Tuesday, May 16th. StockNews.com raised shares of Southern from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 17th. Royal Bank of Canada lowered their target price on shares of Southern from $79.00 to $78.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, March 2nd. Finally, 1-800-FLOWERS.COM reiterated a maintains rating on shares of Southern in a research note on Friday, April 28th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $73.07. Insider Activity at Southern Southern Trading Down 0.7 % In other Southern news, CEO Stephen E. Kuczynski sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $71.89, for a total transaction of $359,450.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 146,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at $10,516,356.76. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website . In other Southern news, CEO Thomas A. Fanning sold 50,000 shares of Southern stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $75.16, for a total value of $3,758,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 847,592 shares of the companys stock, valued at $63,705,014.72. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link . Also, CEO Stephen E. Kuczynski sold 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $71.89, for a total transaction of $359,450.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 146,284 shares in the company, valued at approximately $10,516,356.76. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders sold a total of 91,917 shares of company stock valued at $6,889,527 in the last three months. Company insiders own 0.37% of the companys stock. Shares of SO traded down $0.50 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $69.33. 301,074 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,162,379. The Southern Company has a 12 month low of $58.85 and a 12 month high of $80.57. The company has a market capitalization of $75.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.53, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.82 and a beta of 0.51. The companys fifty day moving average price is $71.69 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $69.15. The company has a quick ratio of 0.51, a current ratio of 0.69 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.51. Southern (NYSE:SO Get Rating) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The utilities provider reported $0.79 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.71 by $0.08. Southern had a return on equity of 10.78% and a net margin of 11.53%. The firm had revenue of $6.48 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.14 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $0.97 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 2.5% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts predict that The Southern Company will post 3.61 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Southern Increases Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, June 6th. Investors of record on Monday, May 15th will be paid a $0.70 dividend. This represents a $2.80 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.04%. This is a positive change from Southerns previous quarterly dividend of $0.68. The ex-dividend date is Friday, May 12th. Southerns dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 90.32%. Southern Company Profile (Get Rating) The Southern Co is a holding company, which engages in the generation and sale of electricity. It operates through the following segments: Traditional Electric Operating Companies, Southern Power and Southern Company Gas. The Traditional Electric Operating Companies segment refers to vertically integrated utilities that own generation, transmission and distribution facilities, and supplies electric services in the states of Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and Mississippi. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Southern Company (NYSE:SO Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Southern Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Southern and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The founding pastor of Resurrection Catholic Church was the Rev. Jack Schlaf, a native of Spalding. "He brought tremendous energy and spiritual encouragement," says the church's history. The church was called into being by Bishop John Sullivan on June 7, 1973. Three days later, Schlaf introduced himself at all Masses at Blessed Sacrament Church. The following Sunday, Schlaf announced the boundaries of the new parish. Those boundaries would include the towns of Cairo and Dannebrog. Dave Schaffer remembers attending a special Blessed Sacrament parish council meeting. A temporary pastor announced that the bishop was adding two new parishes, with Custer Avenue serving as the dividing line. "Those of you that reside west of Custer, go to that corner table and begin forming your new parish," he said. Twelve acres of land were purchased on Cannon Road from Edward Jenkins of Grand Island. As the church was built, Masses were held at Central Catholic. Resurrection's construction began in September 1974, with parishioners Jim Cannon and Leo Liske serving key roles Cannon as architect and Liske as contractor. "A unique feature in the construction was the volunteer labor of more than half of men and women in the parish," says the church's history. Older parishioners recall that on Palm Sunday of 1974, they were given palm branches and instructed to meet outside. As they waited, Father Schlaf came around a corner riding a live donkey. The Christmas Eve Mass in 1974 was held in the unfinished basement of the new church structure. The floor area was dirt. Parishioners sat on planks and bales of straw. Easter of 1975 was celebrated in the sanctuary area after parishioners moved sawhorses and swept up dust. "During construction a unique camaraderie developed," the history says. "Social activities seemed frequent as friendships and parish family grew." Because Schlaf needed a place to live, a rectory was built at the same time as the church. There was no labor expense for the construction of the rectory. All of the labor was donated. Parishioner Jim Kitten remembers all of the enthusiasm and excitement when the church opened. Many people stepped up and came together to build the church, Kitten said. Many people volunteered and donated supplies. Construction was completed in August of 1975. A special day of thanksgiving was held Oct. 24, 1975, in conjunction with St. Leo's. A concrete expression of Resurrection's gratitude to God was the sponsoring of 10 Vietnamese refugees to Grand Island. The parish's charter council members were Jack McGowan, Dick Brown, Schaffer, Richard Butler, Mike Wenzel, John Bush, Phil Bunkers and Pat Boysen. "As Grand Island's population expanded west, our parish needs grew," says the church history. Under the leadership of the Rev. Jim Schmitt, the "Resurrection 2000" campaign saw the addition of six classrooms, a new kitchen and a fellowship hall. "That project was completed in 2001 and we emerged with no outstanding debt," says the church history. An impressive new sanctuary was consecrated in June of 2020. The church currently has 452 active families. Kitten speaks highly of the church's current pastor, the Rev. Vijumon Choorackal. Choorackal, who is commonly known as Father V, has brought new excitement to the parish, Kitten said. "He's a people person." Kitten said. He relates to people very well, and brings people together, Kitten said. Father V, who came to Resurrection in May of 2022, is a good fit for the church. He will be at the Grand Island church for six more years. He enjoys the church because of the parishioners, he said. At Resurrection, he receives "immense support," he said. In addition to the priests mentioned above, the parish priests have been the Revs. Harold Kurtenbach, Robert Wiest, Tom Dillon, Richard Piontkowski, Mike McDermott and Joseph Kadaprayil. John Willmes is a deacon. "None of our success stories could have been accomplished without them," reads the church history. From 2007 to 2014, Resurrection parishioners made working mission trips to St. Lucia. They served at the Marian Home for the elderly and a preschool operated by the Carmelite nuns. They also assisted at St. Benedict's Children's Home on the island of St. Vincent, which included many with special needs. Many parishioners remember the fireworks stands, which were important to the church. Resurrection had two stands one at Skagway and one at EconoFoods. "Resurrection is an active, growing and youth-oriented parish," the history says. "This church is just a building unless we connect with Jesus," the history says. "We invite you to come for Mass here at Resurrection Church. But also, come anytime to sit and just listen in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. It is a special place, a place of peace. Come and listen!" NCTA inducts area students into honor society CURTIS The Alpha Iota Tau Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa inducted 13 new members at the May ceremony with family and friends in attendance to celebrate their honor. New inductees include Grace Glaser of Spalding, and Miya Rocha of Ord. The academic honorary society recognizes the academic achievements of two-year college students. It provides opportunities for growth and development through honors, leadership, and service. Allison Wilkens of Gibbon serves as the chapter president. The organization is involved in campus and community projects in Curtis and assists in hosting an annual career fair. Graduates Caleb Pickering of Boelus, Audra Witmer of Grand Island, Moses Dunbar of Hastings, and Ahnika Bradley of Kearney, were among the 200 undergraduate and 247 graduate students who received degrees from Morningside University during commencement ceremonies May 13 in Sioux City Iowa. Witmer graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor of science degree in business administration; to earn that honor she achieved a GPA of 3.81 or above. Pickering earned a bachelor of arts degree in applied computer science; and Dunbar earned a bachelor of arts degree in religious studies. Bradley received a master of arts in teaching degree. Two area students were among the record 513 students honored at Mitchell Technical Colleges 55th graduation commencement ceremonies May 5 at the Corn Palace in Mitchel, South Dakota. Cody Kosinski of Grand Island received a diploma in Natural Gas Technology. Jentry Lovejoy of Polk earned a diploma in Power Line Construction & Maintenance. Benjamin Moritz of Hastings graduated summa cum laude from Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, when the college honored 424 students during ceremonies on May 13. Moritz earned a bachelor of science degree in chemistry and secondary education. Moritz was also named to the Presidents List for the spring semester. To be named to the list, full-time students must carry a minimum of 12 credit hours with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Mattie Shirley-Fairbairn of Gibbon was among the 624 students participating in commencement ceremonies at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. Shirley-Fairbairn eared a degree in elementary education. Academic honors Grant Johnson of Hastings was named to the Deans List for the spring semester at Drury University in Springfield, Missouri. Johnson is a graduate of Adams Central High School. To earn a spot on the Deans list, students must earn at GPA of 3.6 or greater (on a 4-point scale) while carrying a full-time course load of 12 or more semester hours. Lisa Trettel of Kearney was named to the Presidents List for the spring semester at Benedictine College in Atchinson, Kan. Any full-time student carrying a minimum of 12 hours and a perfect 4.0 grade point average through the spring term is named to the Presidents list. Of the 2,234 students on campus for 2022-2023 academic year, 166 made the Presidents List. Kaley Ballard of Giltner has been named to the Presidents Honor Roll for the spring semester at Bismarck State College in Bismarck, North Dakota. Ballard maintained a 4.0 GPA for the semester. A 38-year-old man died Tuesday at a farm in Madison after a tractor tire exploded while he was repairing it. Miguel Cardenas Pena had been repairing a large tractor tire when the tire and rim exploded, causing him serious blunt force injury, according to a press release from the Madison County Sheriff's Office. Deputies with the Sheriff's Office responded to the scene around 10:47 a.m. and began life-saving measures, according to the release. Madison Fire and Rescue arrived a short time later and assisted with advanced life support. A LifeNet medical helicopter also responded to the scene, but Cardenas Pena died from his injuries before he could be transported, according to the release. The incident remains under investigation. Madison is about 90 miles northeast of Grand Island. Two organizations filed a lawsuit on Tuesday seeking a court order to block the enforcement of recently passed restrictions on abortion and gender-affirming care in Nebraska. The ACLU of Nebraska filed the lawsuit in Lancaster County District Court on behalf of Planned Parenthood of the Heartland and Dr. Sarah Traxler, the chief medical officer of Planned Parenthood North Central States. The bill from Omaha Sen. Kathleen Kauth implemented a ban on certain health care procedures for transgender youths in Nebraska and requires the state's chief medical officer to set rules and regulations for how individuals under the age of 19 can access puberty blockers and hormone treatments. In an unusual move, state lawmakers attached an amendment banning abortion 12 weeks after a woman's last period when LB574 was on final reading, or about 10 weeks post-fertilization. The ACLU of Nebraska said the "hurried legislative effort to enact new limits on abortion access and gender-affirming care" ignored hundreds of Nebraskans who protested the move, as well as more than 1,000 physicians and other health care providers who signed a letter opposing it. The complaint argues the bill, which was signed into law by Gov. Jim Pillen on May 23, violates the state constitution's single subject requirement, which "promotes careful legislative consideration and ensures that legislators remain accountable for their votes." It seeks a permanent injunction from the bill being enforced, as well as a temporary injunction while the lawsuit goes through the legal process. Ruth Richardson, CEO of Planned Parenthood North Central States, said the abortion ban, which took effect upon Pillen's signature, "was pushed through the Legislature using unprecedented tactics." "We are already having to inform patients that they will be unable to get the critical health care they need in Nebraska, and we only expect to see that number grow," Richardson said in a statement. "Nebraskans deserve the right to make private health care decisions that are best for them, their families, and their futures not politicians, who now have more control over our bodies than we do." And Mindy Rush Chipman, ACLU of Nebraska's interim executive director, said the bills contained "two entirely unrelated subjects." "We believe the combination of those bans violated the clear text of our state's constitution," Rush Chipman said. "And the end result of senators' failure to adhere to the single subject requirement was a rushed process that circumvented critical legislative guardrails." Pillen, at the signing ceremony, said the state was prepared to the defend LB574 in court. Photos and video: Scene at Nebraska Capitol as lawmakers debate LB574 for final time CARBONDALE Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II talked about the importance of taking care of mental health on the farm Tuesday afternoon at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. He was joined by Josh and Emily Reinhardt, dairy farmers from Red Bud; Laura Hepp-Kessel, director of telehealth services for SIU School of Medicine; and Karen Leavitt Stallman, ag resource specialist with the Farm Family Resource Initiative, SIU School of Medicine. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which makes it a good time to talk about mental health resources for farm families. Costello said we are just at the end of planting season for farmers, which can be trying to their mental health. As of Tuesday, 100% of corn is planted and more than 90% of soybeans have been planted in Southern Illinois. In 2019, the Illinois Department of Agriculture joined with the SIU School of Medicine and the University of Illinois to start a pilot program in six counties to deal with mental health issues on the farm. The program, called the Farm Family Resource Initiative, is now available in all 102 counties in Illinois. Stallman said a program was created during the farm crisis of the 1980s by the University of Illinois Extension called Rural Routes. The farm crisis of the 80s faded away and so did Rural Routes, Stallman said. The Farm Family Resource Initiative (FFRI) was created to help farmers stay healthy both physically and mentally. FFRI can be accessed in a variety of ways. Call 1-833-FARMSOS (1-833-327-6767), or email FarmFamilyResourceHelpline@mhsil.com. They can be found online at siumed.org/farm. FFRI is a helpline. They can put farmers and their family members in touch with counselors through telehealth or provide other resources. Emily Reinhardt said the website has numerous resources on both physical and mental health. Josh Reinhardt is a third generation Randolph County farmer. His grandfather started their farm in 1954 with 10 chickens and a mule. Farming is hard. Its a labor of love, but it is a labor, Josh Reinhardt said. Today, he said they have around 610 animals on 1,300 acres. They milk about 240 cows each day. The couple have been farming seven years and have an 18-month-old daughter. The couple farms alongside his parents, and get help from their daughter, but they still deal with stress. Some farmers may be apprehensive of seeking mental health services in rural areas because others could see the family car or truck at the place that offers services. FFRI offers help that is 100% anonymous and 100% confidential. I can call these guys and my neighbor down the road doesnt know I called, Josh Reinhardt said. Laura Hepp-Kessel said FFRI is available all year. Through the helpline, farmers and their family members can get up to six telehealth visits free of charge. She said the SIU School of Medicine did about 2,000 telehealth visits in 2019. The first year of the pandemic, that number jumped to 77,000. We are still doing as much in a month as we did in a year before the pandemic, Hepp-Kessel said. Costello said the end of Mental Health Awareness Month is a good time to let people know about the Farm Family Resource Initiative. We know a lot of people are not aware of the program, Costello said. The observation of National Foster Care Month may be coming to a close as the calendar turns to June, but Southern Illinois social service leaders say there is a need for foster parents every single day. According to the AdoptUSKids website, there are nearly 18,000 children and youth in the foster care system in Illinois and not enough foster parents to care for them. I think the need is at crisis level, really, said Hope Carbonaro, executive director of child welfare with Caritas Family Solutions. Caritas is the largest provider of foster care in Southern Illinois, with offices in Belleville, Mount Vernon and Carterville. There are children that need to be stepped out of treatment-level arrangements who deserve to be in a home setting and there are siblings that we would like to see together. Carbonaro added that foster care agencies hope to keep children close to home near friends, schools and biological families but that is not always possible. There is always a need for foster parents, she said. For us, we probably have between five and 10 children that come into (our) care at one of our offices every week. Lindsay Yordy, licensing supervisor with Lutheran Social Services of Illinois agreed. There is a huge need for foster parents for children of all ages, but especially those in the middle years and teenagers; those are the ones we really struggle with finding placements for, she said. She said people often resist becoming foster parents because a fear of the unknown. You are taking on something that needs help and you are taking on the trials, difficulties and vulnerability of a child as well as everything that is going on with them, but the rewarding factors that come with being able to be there for somebody and help build resilience in their lives so that maybe it can break a cycle is really huge. If people will look at that and realize what an impact being a foster parent truly has, it would be a no brainer for them, she said. Yordy said a good foster parent is someone who is willing and kind, able to offer grace in a situation, leaving judgement out of things. She added fostering is about providing stability and a safe place for a child. Megan Tate of Marion answered the call almost five years ago. She currently has two foster children. She said she originally became a foster care provider because she simply wanted to be a mom. But the longer Ive been doing foster care, the more of the need I have seen and my priorities have shifted, Tate explained. There are so many children that need the help and the support, the care and the love that comes along with living in a home and being able to stay in one home until permanency. She said even though foster parenting can be challenging at times, she finds it very rewarding and added it is something that almost any adult can do. I think a lot of people assume they would not be good at it for a bunch of different reasons, but those usually dont turn out to be true, Tate explained. Everyone needs to know that they can make a difference. To see where a child is when they come into your home and then where they are years later is so fulfilling. It is beyond rewarding. And what about those who hesitate from fostering because they say Id just get too attached? Carbonaro has an answer. I get that a lot and my response is that if you think you would get attached, then you are exactly who we need, she said. Children need that attachment. I tell people to think of it this way: they are well-adjusted adults who likely had a childhood without trauma and who have support. This is giving some of that to the child and taking away some of their pain. If you are the one who has to go through some pain rather than the child, the attachment is what we want. Those interested in becoming a foster parent can reach out to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services at 800-232-3798, Caritas at 618-985-2000, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois at 618-997-9196 or any other foster care agency. Foster parents are licensed by DCFS following a home study, background checks and several weeks of training. Once a child is placed in their home, foster parents receive a monthly stipend (usually less than $500) and children are covered by state medical and dental insurance. Fostering can be fun, Yordy added. Kids are kids and things might make for some challenging moments, but ultimately, they want basic things: to feel safe, to feel that they have somebody to count on, they want to be able to connect and to have someone in their corner telling them they can accomplish things. They are worth it. Photos: 23 children gain families in National Adoption Day ceremony in Marion Lena Pillers spent a long night in front of Davenport City Hall. She wanted to be there to protest Tuesday's start of the demolition of The Davenport Apartment building. A large section of the six-story building, located at 324 Main St., collapsed Sunday. "I got here around 5 (Monday), and I stayed here all night. There are people in there," Pillers said. "There are pets in there." Protests near the site of the collapse started Monday night, not long after resident Lisa Brooks was rescued from the building. She was rescued about 12 hours after Davenport Fire Chief Mike Carlsten said, "I have no known individuals that are trapped in this facility." News of the city's intention to start demolition Tuesday morning spread quickly through social media. By Tuesday morning, the city clarified its plans: "In the interest of public safety, the City has been continually evaluating the timing of the demolition of 324 Main Street since its initial collapse 36 hours ago. Demolition is a multi-phase process that includes permitting and staging of equipment that will begin today. The timing of the physical demolition of the property is still be evaluated. The building remains structurally insecure and in imminent danger of collapse." Pillers was one of roughly a dozen people near the corner of 4th and Harrison streets at 5:15 a.m. She was joined by family members and friends of two residents of The Davenport, Branden Colvin and Ryan Hitchcock, who say the men were in the building at the time of its collapse and they have not been located. At 5:30 a.m. four Davenport Police officers stood in front of the chain-link fence erected near 4th and Harrison streets. 'Find them first' Mike Collier was on the scene by 5:30 a.m. and 30 minutes later he carried a small bullhorn in his right hand and an American flag in his left. "My cousin, Braden Colvin, lived in that building," he said through the bullhorn. He pointed to the large portion of the apartments left exposed by its collapse. "You can see Branden's apartment, what's left of it. You can see what is left of his white furniture. You can see what is left of his closet," Collier said. Collier said Colvin's across-the-hall neighbor, saw him Sunday afternoon, just before the collapse. "Branden was supposed to go to my auntie's for a cookout," Collier said. "He never showed up. We know he was in his apartment." Collier was joined by Tremond Gimenez, who questioned why police officers were gathered to protect the site. "Why aren't you helping search? Why is no one searching?" Gimenez shouted. "We are held accountable when we make mistakes or break the law. Why aren't they held accountable?" When some protestors raised their voices to point out the police officers had no control over the situation, a woman shouted, "No, the police are part of the problem." The police line in front of the fence expanded to 10 officers at 6:35 a.m. Collier later put down his bullhorn and approached the police line. He shook the hand of every officer. One man removed During the growing protest, one man tried to gain entrance to the collapsed building. He was escorted away without arrest. The man did not offer his name but said he had a relative who lived in the building and has not been located. He said that relative is Ryan Hitchcock. The man insisted the city "has no right" to tear the building down. The city announced Tuesday morning it had " ... turned control of the site over to the Davenport Development and Neighborhood Services Department." The owner of the property has been served with a notice and order for demolition of the property, the release said. "The property is currently being secured by a contractor on site this afternoon and demolition is expected to commence in the morning. "Due to the unstable condition of the property, and in the interest of public safety, residents will not be allowed back into the building." A woman calling herself Moolah Jefe Dior joined the protest and spent some time with Collier's bullhorn. "I'm here to question this process," she said before she addressed the gathering crowd. "How does the city get permits on a Federal holiday? What judge signed a demolition order? "They announced there was no one in the building and then they find Lisa Brooks in that building. We just think it is too soon to take that building down." By 7:30 a.m. there were more than 100 protestors at the intersection of 4th and Harrison streets and another 20-or-so were at Main and 4th streets. They gathered there after a rumor spread that demolition vehicles were going to enter the site from that intersection. A Davenport police officer explained to those gathered that the only thing happening at the intersection was the addition of traffic cones and safety markers for police and emergency personnel. A total of four Davenport police officers posted up at the intersection. My first protest Skyla Armstrong live streamed the protest from the time she arrived just after 6 a.m. "This is my very first protest," she said. "I'm very concerned about the people, and I'm very concerned about the animals in that building." Armstrong, 32, said she is a criminal justice student and she was "very concerned" about the presence of the police. "I wonder why more effort and more people aren't being used to check that building out," she said. Melanie Jordan said she joined the protest because she lives just a block from The Davenport Apartments. "I don't know anyone who lived there, but these people are my neighbors," she said. "You don't have to know them to be worried about them." Jordan said she also worries about the downtown when demolition starts. "What's going to happen to the air we breathe?" she asked. "I think this collapse and what it's going to take to fix it is going to have a really bad impact on the downtown. People should think about it." By 8:30 a.m., about 250 protesters were on scene. Photos, videos: Building collapse, protests in Davenport Crossing the Interstate 270 bridge over the Mississippi River, it is easy to spot two stone buildings close together in the middle of the river. Perched on oval platforms jutting out of the water, they appear as though they may be all that remains of a historic medieval castle, the rest perhaps washed away by the strong current. The reality is a bit less mysterious or romantic. The towers are basically ornate water intake structures built around a tube, says Curtis Skouby, the director of public utilities with the city of St. Louis. Ports are built into the sides of each tower at different levels below the surface of the river water to allow for changing levels in the river. When the gates covering the openings are removed, gravity allows the water to flow 70 feet down to a slanted tunnel that delivers the water to the water treatment plant. Both were in use until high water in 1993 flooded the intake tubes and filled them with mud and debris. While there are no plans to return the towers to service, it is possible. The equipment to open the gates would need to be overhauled and the chutes carrying the water would need to be cleaned, Skouby says. There is no electricity to the towers so they cannot be operated remotely. Despite their majestic appearance and the fact both have been granted landmark status in 1971 by the city of St. Louis, and their past importance of delivering water to St. Louis residents, it seems an injustice that neither has ever been named. Instead, they are referred to as the tower on the east side of the river, or the tower on the west side of the river. Or Tower 1, or Tower 2. Or the big tower and the small tower. For those who know the history of the buildings, they are also called the old tower which was placed in service in 1894, and the new tower completed in 1915. (The new tower is the one on the east side of the river.) In the early 1800s the first water intake towers were near the Arch grounds, Skouby says. As St. Louis grew, and in order to provide cleaner, healthier water to the city above where industrial waste was being allowed to flow into the river, new treatment facilities, along with their intakes were successively moved up the river. Once or twice a year Skouby and a few other employees with the city of St. Louis venture out to inspect the structures. It is a difficult maneuver to dock the boat and then grab and climb onto the 30-foot steel ladders, he says. The towers are in the middle of the river where the current is most swift, and if someone falls into the water or the engines on the boat fail it is only a few hundred feet downstream to the rapids where the actual chain of rocks stretch across the Mississippi River. Also, as someone climbs up the tower ladders the water rushing by below gives the impression the tower is moving upstream against the current, and that can be disorienting. Despite the danger, infrequent trespassers used to be a problem until a locked steel cage was erected over the ladders in 2010. Interestingly, the water once provided for city water is quite different from one tower to the other, although they are quite close to each other. Tower 2 (the new tower on the east side of the river) took in water from the Mississippi River. Most of the water from Tower 1 comes from the Missouri River, which joins the Mississippi River a few miles upstream, and which is not entirely co-mingled with the Mississippi River water when it arrives at the towers. Both towers were built around the turn of the 20th century when St. Louis was emerging as a city of significance. The towers proudly demonstrated the vitality and prosperity the city was enjoying. The more castle-like tower is Tower 1. It was designed by William Eames, a prominent St. Louis architect in the late 1880s. Among the other buildings he is known for designing were the Palace of Education at the 1904 Worlds Fair and the Cupples Warehouse Complex in downtown St. Louis. Eames tower features walls of rough-cut limestone, arched windows, an iron fence, and balcony encircling the tower, a high stone chimney and a round tower at one end covered by a conical copper roof. Tower 2 was designed by the architectural firm of Roth and Study, which used an Imperial Roman design resembling an Italian Renaissance villa. The firm also designed many of the elegant homes in the Parkview subdivision, which begins on the western edge of the city of St. Louis and continues into University City. Perhaps twice the size of Eames tower, Tower 2 features outside arched windows outlined by thick decorative stone casing. Two columns bracket tall 10-pane entry doors with arched tops that on a normal building would lead to a stately center hall. An ornate iron railing comparable to those seen surrounding some of the stately homes in Lafayette Square encircles the walkway around the building. Both sides are mirror images of the other. Tower 2 was built as a backup to tower 1 and includes living quarters inside for workers to monitor the machinery diverting water to the water plant. Inside, walls are white subway tile, and there is a coal furnace used for heat. But there has never been electricity, water or bathrooms. When built, boats plying the Mississippi River had to navigate between the towers, which is where the main channel of the river is located. It is also a portion of a 17-mile stretch of river where there are a series of underwater rock ledges close to the surface. Navigation through this area was impossible during lower water, and dangerous during high water. Further complicating the journey for river pilots was the Chain of Rocks Bridge built in 1929 and just a few hundred feet upstream from the towers. To solve the problematic river obstacles and avoid the expense of cutting a channel through the bedrock, in 1940 the US Army Corps of Engineers designed and built the Chain of Rocks Canal to bypass the area. The canal stretches from just south of the mouth of the Missouri River to just north of downtown St. Louis. Despite being a hazard to boats navigating the river prior to 1940, only one is known to have collided with either tower. On June 20, 1914, the paddlewheel steamboat Majestic slammed into Tower 2 when it was under construction. Wedged up against the tower, the hull of the boat was used as a platform to store construction material. Despite each tower being well over 100 years old and sitting in rapidly flowing water the whole time, the stone platforms are in remarkably good condition, partly due to the fact each was built with a prow to deflect the ice, logs and water from around the base. The buildings themselves could use some maintenance. Repair has been deferred due to budget issues. Andrew Weil, executive director of the Landmarks Association of St. Louis, says, The towers were built when a lot of time and effort was being put into embellishing our community architecture. They could easily just have been holes in the river instead of little castles. Weil also says the river towers are historically linked to the three standpipe water towers in St. Louis proper, each built during the same era, also as symbols of community pride. Those were used as pressure valves to maintain a steady water pressure throughout the city, he says, but they could have been built as large pipes with no character. The Bissell Point Tower at Bissell and Blair Avenue stands 195 feet and was erected in 1885, while just a few blocks away at North Grand and 22nd Street the East Grand Tower is 154 feet high and was built in 1871. The Compton Hill Tower at South Grand and Shaw boulevards and stands 154 feet and was erected in 1871. All five towers were built at a time when the people in charge were creating beautiful architecture instead of something just utilitarian. Each are very significant landmarks in the history of our city, he says. If you go The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge offers an opportunity to walk out on the bridge and get as close as possible to the water intake towers. Opened daily by volunteer gatekeepers from 9 a.m. to 30 minutes after sunset, the bridge once carried historic Route 66 across the Mississippi River and features several historical displays, as well as the closest view possible of the castles without a kingdom. For an even better view, bring binoculars. The parking lot on the Missouri side of the bridge is currently closed, but access to the bridge is available from Illinois: To get to the bridge from Missouri, take I-270 and exit at IL Route 3. Go south to Chain of Rocks Road and follow the road west to the bridge entrance parking area. Parking and access to the bridge are free. CHEYENNE One of Wyomings largest natural gas suppliers is proposing a 7% increase in residential customers service charges. Black Hills Energy filed a rate review application with the Wyoming Public Service Commission May 18 seeking an increase in base rates of $19.3 million to recover the necessary capital infrastructure and operational costs required to enable safe, reliable natural gas service for customers in Wyoming, the company said in a press release at the time of the filing. If approved, new rates would be implemented during the first quarter of 2024. The average residential customer would see an increase of around $6.74 per month, going from a current bill for 65 therms of $89.83 to $96.58 per month. Small commercial customers with an average usage of 155 therms would see an increase of about $13.70 per month, up from $193.19 per month to $206.89. But local customers say gas prices have already shot up, and they are concerned about additional increases. Black Hills Energy has been charging local residents exorbitant delivery fees for gas and electric, Cheyenne resident Heidi Argueta said in a letter to the Wyoming Tribune Eagle. For example, my February gas and electric bill for a 2,500-square-foot property cost me $555. Of that amount, $342 was delivery fees. The public has until June 23 to comment on the request, and a hearing is still seven or eight months away, said John Burbridge, chief counsel with the Wyoming Public Service Commission. The PSC, he explained, looks after utility customers to try to make sure that the rates are reasonable, but at the same time, (we ensure) the utility is able to supply electric and gas at a reasonable price that is reliable so that your furnace comes on. Black Hills Energy operates, maintains and updates more than 6,400 miles of natural gas system infrastructure in Wyoming, according to Laurie Farkas, BHE senior community affairs manager. Since its last rate review in 2019, the company completed more than $140 million in system safety, integrity and reliability projects. Infrastructure replacement projects have included gas meter and yard line replacement projects, and from 2020 through 2022, Black Hills has undertaken more than 40 integrity projects and more than 1,800-meter replacements in Wyoming cities, including Cody, Rawlins, Laramie, Casper, Wheatland, Riverton, and Cheyenne, Farkas said in an email to the WTE. We take very seriously our responsibility to balance paying for necessary infrastructure improvements, while also keeping costs down and maintaining compliance requirements of state and federal regulations, Farkas said. Burbridge explained that utilities are only allowed to sell gas at the price they purchase it for, or a wholesale rate. Gas prices fluctuate, he continued, based on weather events, market shifts and other factors. The utility doesnt make any money on the gas itself. They do make money on the infrastructure, the pipelines, the delivery system. They are allowed a return on that part of the investment, he said. Farkas said that the last year has been challenging for the industry, as natural gas prices doubled and even tripled during a record-breaking cold winter. Even though we provide the natural gas with no markup to customers, the high commodity prices and higher usage resulted in higher-than-normal bills, Farkas said. We understand the impact our investments can have on customers and prudently make the best and most cost-effective choices to support the safety and reliability of our natural gas system. Utilities periodically review customer rates to align with the actual cost of delivering natural gas service, including operating costs, infrastructure investments and other system expenses, she said. As a regulated public utility, Black Hills Energy must request approval from the Wyoming PSC for any change to tariffs or rates. Black Hills Energy will follow WPSCs formal process to recover allowable costs and system investments necessary to meet our responsibility to provide safe, reliable natural gas service for our customers, Farkas said. WPSC will review our request and consider public comment and perspective from stakeholders. So while the utility has requested a rate review, it may not be approved as requested. So Black Hills has requested a 7% increase, Burbridge said. That is not necessarily what they will end up with. Anthony Ornelas, administrator for Wyomings Office of Consumer Advocate, said his organization is statutorily obligated to represent the interest of all citizens of Wyoming, and the utility ratepayers of the state on issues like this. We do that through the intervention and adjudication of these types of dockets, Ornelas said in an interview with the WTE. At the moment, we dont have an opinion we can share, as it is a very new filing. Our office will be filing a notice of intervention in that docket, if it hasnt been filed already, he continued. We will do a thorough review of that case, providing testimony and recommendation on the matter before the Public Service Commission. The Office of Consumer Advocate will seek discovery and request information from the company throughout the process, he explained. We will be a party to this throughout the adjudication up to and including in a public hearing, in which we would represent the citizens and the ratepayers of Wyoming, Ornelas said. Members of the Casper City Council gathered in a cramped, wood-paneled conference room in City Hall on a recent May evening. Sipping coffee, energy drinks and bottled water, they settled in for a four-hour review of the citys upcoming budget. Anxiety was in the air. Over the last nine months, Wyoming industries have continued to bounce back from the doldrums of the pandemic. But Americans confidence in the economy is faltering. National experts including staff economists at the Federal Reserve are still debating whether the country could be headed toward a recession. The good news is that were probably fine for now. State sales tax revenue, which accounts for the biggest slice of Caspers general fund, is doing better than the city predicted last spring. And while the economy seems to be cooling some, recent reports published by the states Consensus Revenue Estimating Group (CREG) are projecting modest sales tax growth to continue through the rest of 2023 and into 2024. (CREGs primary purpose is to predict how much money the government will earn over the next few years, which helps lawmakers and the governor set the state budget.) With that in mind, Caspers proposed budget for the 2024 fiscal year is betting on 3% growth in sales tax revenue. We believe the trajectory to be positive, although not aggressive or ambitious, City Manager Carter Napier told councilors at the meeting. So whats the bad news? Casper still doesnt have a diverse tax base. The city makes an outsized portion of its money from sales tax, and an outsized portion of its sales tax from retail trade. That makes your community less resilient against economic downturns if and when they do happen. The city doesnt have much power to diversify its tax base, even if it wanted to. Wyomings tax system is regulated by state statute, or in some cases, codified into the state constitution. And while local governments have some ability to pass optional taxes like Natrona Countys 1-cent tax state law doesnt give them much power to meaningfully change how those taxes are assessed, or to propose new taxes to voters. Financial reports published by the Wyoming Association of Municipalities in 2016 and 2017 found that Wyoming communities are unusually dependent on state government for funding compared to other places in the U.S. (The association hasnt published any more current versions of the reports.) A little over 70% of the roughly $53 million in general fund revenue Caspers projecting for fiscal year 2024 would come from revenue sources regulated by other governments. Its like being a minority owner of a business, Napier said. The citys still trying to inch away from state dependence however it can. Its planning to cut direct distribution funding out of its general fund, for instance. The state started giving Wyoming communities direct distribution money after the Legislature in 2000 started capping the revenue local governments could make from mineral severance taxes and federal mineral royalties. Casper usually uses $3.5 million to $4 million in direct distribution money a year to boost its operational budget, Napier told councilors during the meeting. But local governments arent sure how long that money will be available; state leaders have long threatened to eliminate the program. Moving forward, the city hopes to only use direct distribution money to cover one-time expenses. The budget will not be formally adopted until June. Former Department of Corrections manager C.J. Young will take over as Wyomings new state elections director, Secretary of State Chuck Gray announced Tuesday at a Joint Corporations Committee meeting. Young said Tuesday at the meeting that hes very excited for this opportunity to be working for the secretary, working for the people of Wyoming. I look forward to getting to meet all the different clerks and getting to know you all better, so its just a really exciting opportunity, and I cant wait to get started. Young will start in his role on June 12, Gray said. Young earned his law degree and masters in public administration from the University of Wyoming in 2014. The same year, Young was also a Republican House District 45 candidate, losing the race to Democrat Charles Pelkey. He worked at the Wyoming Department of Corrections for eight years, most recently as a policy planning manager. As the states elections director, Young will head a division that assists with the states elections, including filing campaign finance disclosure reports, verifying petitions for independent candidates, initiatives, referendums and new political parties, generating voter registration lists, processing candidate applications and registering lobbyists. Though the secretary of state has a wide array of responsibilities, Gray, a 2020 presidential election skeptic who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump, mostly focused on the positions elections administration duties during his campaign. Hes advocated for banning ballot drop boxes and championed during this years legislative session a bill that will ban crossover voting a topic that came into particular focus in the heated competition between Wyomings former Rep. Liz Cheney and current Rep. Harriet Hageman. Former state election division director Kai Schon, who served in the role for seven years, left the post before Gray took office in January. He was the Help America Vote Act coordinator with the Secretary of States Office for more than eight years prior to taking on the election director job. Schon was among several employees with the Secretary of States Office who left the office before Gray took over. Former Deputy Secretary of State Karen Wheeler, who had worked in the Secretary of States Office for 37 years, left in early January. She was replaced by current Deputy Secretary of State Jesse Naiman. Wheeler now works as the boards and commissions coordinator for the Wyoming Department of Education. Former Business Division Director Lisa Gonzales and former Administration Director Andrea Byrne also left their posts. Colin Crossman, a member of the Wyoming State Bar who has a law degree from Duke University, replaced Gonzales as director of the business division. He joined the Secretary of States Office in April, Gray said. A call to the Administration Division regarding Byrnes replacement was referred to the secretary of states chief policy officer and general counsel Joe Rubino. Rubino didnt immediately respond to the Star-Tribunes call and email. PHOTOS: Casper voters head to the polls Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes Casper votes A Hawaii man pleaded guilty Wednesday to intentionally disturbing a bison calf that was struggling in Yellowstone National Parks Lamar River earlier this month, which ultimately led park rangers to euthanize the animal. Clifford Walters will have to pay $1,040 in fines, wildlife protection funds and other fees for pushing the calf up from the river and onto a nearby road, the U.S. Attorneys Office for Wyoming announced. Walters approached a struggling newborn bison calf near the confluence of Lamar River and Soda Butte Creek on May 20, the statement said. The calf was separated from its mother when the herd crossed the river. The calf continued to struggle in the water, so he intervened. There was nothing in the report that revealed Mr. Walters acted maliciously, the statement said. Other visitors later spotted the calf walking up to and following cars and people, the statement said. Park rangers repeatedly tried to reunite the calf with the herd, but their efforts were unsuccessful. In the end, rangers were forced to euthanize the calf because it was abandoned by the herd and causing a hazardous situation along the road, the park said. The park defended its decision to destroy the calf rather find a new home for it because state and federal laws would have required the animal to be quarantined first, officials wrote in a follow-up statement. A calf that is not equipped to care for itself is not a good candidate for separation. We made the choice not because we are lazy, uncaring or inexpert in our understanding of bison biology, the park wrote in the statement. We made the choice we did because national parks preserve the natural processes. Yellowstone National Park rules require visitors to stay at least 25 yards from all wildlife and at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, the statement said. People who get too close are sometimes hurt or injured. Even if they arent, they can face fines. The safety of these animals, as well as human safety, depends on everyone using good judgment and following these simple rules, the statement said. 22 animals to look for in Yellowstone (and your odds of spotting them) Rocky Mountain elk Northwestern gray wolf American bison Grizzly bear Black bear Bighorn sheep Bobcat Canada lynx Coyote Shiras Moose Mountain lion Red fox North American beaver Snowshoe hare White-tailed jackrabbit Jackalope North American porcupine Bald Eagle Golden eagle Great horned owl Trumpeter swan Sandhill Crane A grand jury has formally indicted a Fort Washakie man accused of threatening to shoot an FBI special agent in the head. Last week, Leo Barnaby II pleaded not guilty to threatening a federal law enforcement officer and being a felon in possession of a firearm during his arraignment in federal court. He is facing up to 25 years in prison and up to a $500,000 fine. Barnaby threatened to assault and murder the agent with using a Glock pistol that he wasnt allowed to own after being previously convicted of a crime, the indictment states. He is accused of alluding to an earlier killing by a different suspect while making the threat. Barnaby and K.T. were identified as victims of a double shooting on April 29, the federal complaint states. These allegations stem an investigation by FBI Special Agent Scott Jensen. Barnaby and K.T. were transported to the SageWest Emergency Room in Lander following the shooting, and Jensen responded to the hospital. K.T. was shot in the back multiple times, and at least one bullet was believed to be lodged in his or her abdomen, the complaint states. K.T. was eventually airlifted to Banner Wyoming Medical Center in Casper to see a vascular surgeon. Barnaby also had several wounds to his back-right shoulder, which were determined to be caused by bullet fragments. Jensen interviewed Barnaby while he was in the hospital, the complaint states. Barnaby reported that he spotted several men standing around a small bonfire outside a Fort Washakie home while he and K.T. were driving around in his Chevy Silverado. As Barnaby drove past the bonfire, he stated the guys all started shooting at his truck, the complaint states. One of the men from the bonfire shared a different version of events with a Bureau of Indian Affairs officer, the complaint states. K.G. accused Barnaby and K.T. of shooting at the group of men first, so they returned fire in self-defense. After Barnaby was released from the hospital, Jensen stopped at his house to gain clarification on where the shooting occurred, the complaint states. At first Barnaby wanted to drive back to the location to show me where things happened, but I told him I did not want him going back to that house, the complaint states. Barnaby quickly became very agitated and then angry that I did not know where the house was. Barnaby threatened Jensen, stating he was going to do to him what was done to Redstar, the complaint alleges. He told Jensen he had guns in his home and was going to use them. I know that Derek Redstar Pappan was recently murdered by being shot in the back of the head by close range, Jensen states in the complaint. The first-degree murder Barnaby allegedly referenced happened on March 25. Another man, Francis James Acebo, Jr., is accused of shooting and killing Derek Redstar Pappan inside his home on the reservation. Acebo allegedly entered the mobile home during the early hours of the morning, approached Pappan from behind and shot him in the back of the head. Although Jensen repeatedly warned Barnaby these threats were a crime, he continued making them, according to the complaint. Barnabys jury trial is scheduled to start on July 24. Cheyenne-based attorney Donna Domonkos, who is representing Barnaby, did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday. Sophia A. Nelson is an award winning author and national journalist and is a resident of Leesburg. Its hard to believe that four years have passed, since the horror that unfolded on May 31, 2019, at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center located in the Princess Anne area of the beach. On Wednesday, citizens, survivors and victims families gathered in a vigil to remember those Virginia lost on that terrible day. They also gathered to demand justice and financial reparations for the victims families. Like most Virginians, I remember well the horror of the Virginia Tech shootings in 2007, as we had two close family friends with daughters on that campus as students. However, the Virginia Beach victims have been allowed to quietly fade from our memory, as the commission charged to support them, and the public officials sworn to protect them have largely failed them. In short, the difference between this most recent mass shooting in the commonwealth versus what happened at Tech in 2007, is in how the victims families and survivors have been treated. Enter former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax, now private civil litigation attorney Fairfax and his team, who represent the interest of eight of the 12 families whose loved ones were murdered. The victims seek a $40 million fund. For context, in 2012, the commonwealth put together a $48.2 million settlement fund for the Virginia Tech victims, which was well received and bipartisan. At the time of the massacre at Tech in 2007, Democrat Tim Kaine was the governor of Virginia. By the time the fund was negotiated, Republican Bob McDonnell was the governor. It was a seamless priority. So far, the Virginia Beach families have only been allotted $1.5 million. This is grossly unacceptable. Presently, Virginia has a billions of dollars surplus. And these victims and survivors deserve bipartisan support. But how do we get there when our current culture around guns in the nation writ large and the commonwealth is so very toxic? The families have laid out a reasonable pathway for how we go forward in a way that honors them and compensates them for their immeasurable loss. First, the families seek $40 million in the 2023 $80 billion state budget (0.0005% of the budget) for the 12 victims families and for the surviving government employees who were affected. Twenty-five million dollars would be divided equally among the 12 families. The other $15 million would support the more than 400 employees. Secondly, the fund would provide lifetime mental health and medical benefits reimbursements to victims. Thirdly, the current commission charged with investigating what happened would be restructured as it has failed badly, as is evidenced by Attorney General Jason Miyares recent letter blasting it. Sadly, the families still dont have answers to important questions about what really happened that day. Worse, the city of Virginia Beach has already spent more than $26 million to fix the building while doing virtually nothing to fix the families who are also broken. Here is the bottom line: The lack of action on behalf of these victims in Virginia Beach reeks of the change in our culture when it comes to how we view gun violence and innocence forever lost. And it tells a story, a story of how much Virginia has changed on the issue of gun violence and caring for the victims of such violence in the past 16 years. Today guns are a hot political issue that divides us against one another, regardless of where we live or work. And we no longer honor the core freedoms we say we value. These families and survivors deserve better. Virginians like me must contact their state legislators regardless of where we live and demand justice for our fellow Virginians who were murdered, wounded or scarred emotionally that terrible day. Sophia A. Nelson is an award winning author and national journalist and is a resident of Leesburg. A federal judge ruled Friday that four Missouri hunters did not trespass when they corner crossed and passed through the airspace above Fred Eshelmans Elk Mountain Ranch. Chief U.S. District Judge Scott Skavdahl granted the hunters request to dismiss most of Eshelmans lawsuit that claimed the men trespassed and caused more than $7 million in damages. The men corner-crossed in 2020 and 2021 to hunt public land enmeshed in Eshelmans 22,045-acre ranch. Corner crossing involves stepping from one piece of public land to another at the common corner with two pieces of private property, all arranged in a checkerboard pattern. Corner crossing avoids setting foot on private land. The ruling has implications for public access to 8.3 million acres of corner locked public land in the U.S. The hunters argued that the federal Unlawful Inclosures Act of 1885 prevents Eshelman from obstructing access across the corner. This is a long overdue and singularly great outcome for the entire American public and anybody who enjoys public lands, the hunters attorney Ryan Semerad said. He and his colleagues fully expect an appeal. The judges ruling did not address the disputed allegation that one hunter, Zach Smith, did set foot on ranch property at a spot well removed from one of several contested corners. A digital waypoint that Smith created in 2020 on the onX hunting app is located on Eshelman property, the ranch owner says. That proves Smith was on the ranch, the landowner and his attorneys have alleged. Smith and his lawyer say the Waypoint 6 could have been made from anywhere and its location proves nothing. A genuine dispute of material fact exists to preclude summary judgment concerning the alleged Waypoint 6 trespassing (which does not involve corner crossing) Skavdahl wrote in his 32-page order. Any damages Eshelman would claim for that alleged transgression would be limited to nominal damages and not the $7.75 million Eshelman had claimed in lost ranch value, the judge wrote. Skavdahl has scheduled a trial in June where that now-separate Waypoint 6 trespass allegation could be resolved. We do not know what will come of the remaining issue of material fact, Semerad said of what he called errant Waypoint 6. For now, all my clients are very, very happy, he said. Wyoming Backcountry Hunters and Anglers launched a fundraising campaign in 2021 to ensure the hunters, Smith, Bradly Cape, Phillip Yeomans and John Slowensky, could have their day in court. The organization hailed the ruling. Today was a win for the people, both in Wyoming and across the country, Land Tawney, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers president and CEO, said in a statement. The courts ruling confirms that it was legal for the Missouri Four to step from public land to public land over a shared public/private corner. Coupled with recent legislation passed by the Wyoming Legislature, we are happy that common sense and the rule of law prevailed, his statement reads. Backcountry Hunters & Anglers applauds the courts careful balancing of access to public land and respect of private property rights. We look forward to finding more solutions to access together. Skavdahl observed that with respect to the corner crossing issue [t]here is no evidence the hunters made physical contact with [Eshelmans] private land or caused any damage to plaintiffs private property, either in 2020 or 2021. The judge also agreed with Eshelman that he generally owns the airspace above his property and is entitled to use it. But even property rights come with limitations and restrictions, Skavdahl wrote. History, federal case law, federal statutory law, and recent Wyoming legislation demonstrate corner crossing in the manner done by Defendants in this case is just such a restriction on Plaintiffs property rights, he wrote. [D]efendants, in common with other persons [have] the right to the benefit of the public domain, which necessarily requires some limitation on the adjoining private landowners right of exclusion within the checkerboard pattern of land ownership. The judge summarized and analyzed relevant court precedent to conclude that corner crossing on foot in the checkerboard pattern of land ownership, without physically, contacting private land and, without causing damage to private property does not constitute an unlawful trespass. Even when the hunters grabbed two Elk Mountain Ranch fence posts, chained together as an obstacle at the first corner they encountered, and swung around them to step from public land to public land, they were protected by the UIA, which prevents landowners from blocking access to public land, the judge said. WyoFile could not reach Eshelmans attorneys Friday afternoon. Former U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney implored new college graduates to not compromise when it comes to the truth, excoriating her House Republican colleagues for not doing enough to combat former President Donald Trumps lies that the 2020 election was stolen. In a commencement speech at Colorado College, the Wyoming Republican repeated her fierce criticisms of Trump but steered clear of talking about his 2024 reelection campaign or her own political future. Cheney, who graduated from Colorado College in 1988, recalled being a political science student walking into a campus building where a Bible verse was inscribed above the entrance that read, Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free. After the 2020 election and the attack of January 6th, my fellow Republicans wanted me to lie. They wanted me to say the 2020 election was stolen, the attack of January 6th wasnt a big deal, and Donald Trump wasnt dangerous, Cheney said Sunday in Colorado Springs, connecting her experiences as a student to her work in the U.S. House of Representatives. I had to choose between lying and losing my position in House leadership. In three terms in office, Cheney rose to the No. 3 GOP leadership position in the House, a job she lost after voting to impeach Trump for the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol and then not relenting in her criticism of the former president. Cheneys speech touched on themessimilar to those she has promoted since leaving office in January: addressing her work on the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol and standing up to the threat she believes Trump poses to democracy. She also encouraged more women to run for office and blasted one of the election-denying attorneys who worked for Trump after the 2020 election for recent remarks about college students voting. Cleta Mitchell, an election denier and adviser to former President Trump, told a gathering of Republicans recently that it is crucially important to make sure that college students dont vote, Cheney said. Those who are trying to unravel the foundations of our republic, who are threatening the rule of law and the sanctity of our elections, know they cant succeed if you vote. In an audio recording of Mitchells presentation from a recent Republican National Committee retreat, she warns of polling places on college campuses and the ease of voting as potential problems, the Washington Post reported. Most students and parents in the audience applauded throughout Cheneys remarks, yet some booed. Some students opposing the choice of Cheney as speaker turned their chairs away from the stage as she spoke. Cheneys busy speaking schedule and subject matter have fueled speculation about whether she may enter the 2024 GOP presidential primary since she left office. Candidates ranging from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley have calibrated their remarks about Trump, aiming to counter his attacks without alienating the supporters that won him the White House seven years ago. Though some have offered measured criticisms, no declared or potential challenger has embraced anti-Trump messaging to the same extent as Cheney. She did not reference her plans on Sunday but has previously said she remains undecided about whether she wants to run for president. Though she would face an uphill battle, Cheneys fierce anti-Trump stance and her role as vice chairwoman of the House committee elevated her platform high enough to call on a national network of donors and Trump critics to support a White House run. A super PAC organized to support of her candidacy has remained active, including purchasing attack ads on New Hampshire airwaves against Trump this month. After leaving office and being replaced by a Trump-backed Republican who defeated her in last years primary, Cheney was appointed to a professorship at the University of Virginia and wrote Oath and Honor, a memoir scheduled to hit shelves in November. Two of Cheneys five children as well as her mother are also graduates of the liberal arts college. Cheneys speaking tour appears to be picking up. She is scheduled to appear Thursday at the Mackinac Policy Conference in Michigan. PHOTOS: Liz Cheney watch party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party Cheney Watch Party A grand jury has formally indicted a man accused of shooting a Fremont County man in the head inside of his mobile home in March, federal court filings show. Francis James Acebo, Jr. is charged with first-degree murder for the premeditated killing of Derek Redstar Pappan on the Wind River Indian Reservation on March 25, the indictment states. He is also charged with using a firearm during a violent crime. Last week, Acebo pleaded not guilty to both charges during his arraignment in federal court; he is facing life in prison. During the early hours of the morning, Pappan was inside his single-wide mobile home along with several unidentified people, the complaint states. Pappan and an unidentified woman were in the living room looking for a cell phone charger at about 5:30 a.m. Acebo allegedly entered the mobile home while Pappan was standing over a mattress searching for the charger, the complaint states. He is accused of approaching him from behind and shooting Pappan in the back of his head at close range. Acebo ultimately fled from Pappans mobile home. One of Acebos family members allegedly told another person close to him that Acebo may have shot and killed someone, the complaint states. Acebos jury trial is scheduled to start on June 26. He has been ordered to have no contact with Pappans family or any of the witnesses in the meantime, a court order shows. James Whiting, Acebos attorney, could not be reached for comment Tuesday. THE executive of the Fire Service Associations (1st & 2nd Division) have accepted the Chief Personnel Officers (CPO) four per cent salary. But while they may have accepted the offer, president of the Fire Services Association Leo Ramkissoon said they are not happy to have done so but they felt they had no other choice. THE DEFENCE Force is missing one of its assault rifles and a $75,000 reward is being considered for information that will lead to the arrest and prosecution of persons responsible. The police and the Defence Force are currently investigating the disappearance of an unloaded assault rifle (an Israeli-made Galil) from the Support and Service Battalion of the Trinidad and Tobago Regiment in Chaguaramas. The High Court will deliver its decision tomorrow on whether it will grant an injunction preventing Government from substituting the Customs and Excise Division (CED) and the Inland Revenue Division (IRD) with the Trinidad and Tobago Revenue Authority (TTRA). Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. A Northern Virginia woman who has worked to advocate for the Korean American community recently collaborated with a Williamsburg couple and state Sen. Monty Mason to donate 1,000 sets of infant clothing to nonprofits around the region. Hyun Lee, whose family owns and operates SH International, a clothing and textile company in South Korea, and Daeik and Susan Chong of Williamsburg donated the clothing, which was distributed Friday at the United Way of the Virginia Peninsula. Bags and boxes of infant clothing ready for donation at the United Way of the Virginia Peninsulas office on May 26, 2023. A Williamsburg couple and Sen. Monty Mason helped make the donation to seven area nonprofits possible. The charity effort began with Lee, a professor in the school of business at the Washington University of Science and Technology in Vienna who has previously worked to help communities in the aftermath of the pandemic. Lee, who has 15 years of experience with political campaigns, advocacy and building coalitions, previously served as a member of both the Virginia Governors Council on Women and the Virginia Asian Advisory Board. After the success of a New Years clothing drive in Fairfax, Lee wanted to make an impact, not only on her own community, but on Asian American communities in other parts of Virginia. All the clothing donated by Lee was manufactured in her familys factory in South Korea and comes from her textile wholesale location in Northern Virginia. As a Korean American, Lee makes a point of connecting with local Korean American leaders in the community when she travels for business, which is how she met the Chongs three years ago. The Chongs are first-generation Korean Americans who have lived in the United States for 50 years. Susan Chong used to be an educator and Daeik Chong was a master potter at the Williamsburg Pottery Factory. Daeik was also a former president of the Korean Association (Peninsula) and the Tidewater Korean Association. In addition, the Chongs owned and operated seven Hampton Roads gas stations. Daeik and Susan Chong of Williamsburg at the United Way of the Virginia Peninsula on May 26, 2023. The Chongs helped get donations of infant clothing to area nonprofits. When the Chongs heard about previous clothing donation projects that Lee had done in Northern Virginia, they wanted to contribute to a similar initiative in the Williamsburg area. Giving back and serving our community has always been a priority for us, the Chongs said in a prepared statement. These infant clothes will support many deserving families across the Peninsula. Knowing we were a part of this effort is a true delight. With her experience in local, state and national advocacy, Lee said she felt it was important to collaborate with local offices who could help her project become a reality. With the Chongs support, Lee reached out to Masons office to facilitate the donation process and connect her with the United Way. The United Way identified nonprofits throughout the Peninsula that could benefit from the clothing donations. On Friday, Lee, Mason, the Chongs and participating nonprofits met at the United Way of the Virginia Peninsulas York County office to announce and distribute the donations. We worked hard to bring our partners together and see what their needs are, said Charvalla West, director of community impact for United Way. Thats what United Ways does mobilize resources. They were a great conduit to getting this out, added Mason, who has worked with the nonprofit multiple times in the past. State Sen. Monty Mason and Krystal Grove of the Salvation Army Williamsburg carting clothing donations. Krystal Grove, the social services coordinator for Salvation Army Williamsburg, one of the nonprofits that received clothing, said the donations would make a huge impact. Other nonprofits that got donations included Grove Christian Outreach Center, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, FISH, Salvation Army Virginia Peninsula, Link of Hampton Roads and Catholic Charities of Eastern Virginia. The clothing represents more than warmth and comfort, said Susan Chong. It represents hope and solidarity. Evelyn Davidson, evelyn.davidson@virginiamedia.com So, we are here with Part II of the interview with a supposed expert discussing situationships. JP: Last week we ended with the point of mens brains being able to compartmentalise better than womens. Aside from being cultured and nurtured differently, you are saying the physical make-up of the male brain by itself makes men compartmentalise better? NEW YORK As concerns grow over increasingly powerful artificial intelligence systems like ChatGPT, the nations financial watchdog says its working to ensure that companies follow the law when theyre using AI. Already, automated systems and algorithms help determine credit ratings, loan terms, bank account fees, and other aspects of our financial lives. AI also affects hiring, housing and working conditions. Ben Winters, Senior Counsel for the Electronic Privacy Information Center, said a joint statement on enforcement released by federal agencies last month was a positive first step. Theres this narrative that AI is entirely unregulated, which is not really true, he said. Theyre saying, Just because you use AI to make a decision, that doesnt mean youre exempt from responsibility regarding the impacts of that decision. This is our opinion on this. Were watching. In the past year, the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau said it has fined banks over mismanaged automated systems that resulted in wrongful home foreclosures, car repossessions, and lost benefit payments, after the institutions relied on new technology and faulty algorithms. There will be no AI exemptions to consumer protection, regulators say, pointing to these enforcement actions as examples. Consumer Finance Protection Bureau Director Rohit Chopra said the agency has already started some work to continue to muscle up internally when it comes to bringing on board data scientists, technologists and others to make sure we can confront these challenges and that the agency is continuing to identify potentially illegal activity. Representatives from the Federal Trade Commission, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and the Department of Justice, as well as the CFPB, all say theyre directing resources and staff to take aim at new tech and identify negative ways it could affect consumers lives. One of the things were trying to make crystal clear is that if companies dont even understand how their AI is making decisions, they cant really use it, Chopra said. In other cases, were looking at how our fair lending laws are being adhered to when it comes to the use of all of this data. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act and Equal Credit Opportunity Act, for example, financial providers have a legal obligation to explain any adverse credit decision. Those regulations likewise apply to decisions made about housing and employment. Where AI make decisions in ways that are too opaque to explain, regulators say the algorithms shouldnt be used. I think there was a sense that, Oh, lets just give it to the robots and there will be no more discrimination, Chopra said. I think the learning is that that actually isnt true at all. In some ways the bias is built into the data. EEOC Chair Charlotte Burrows said there will be enforcement against AI hiring technology that screens out job applicants with disabilities, for example, as well as so-called bossware that illegally surveils workers. Burrows also described ways that algorithms might dictate how and when employees can work in ways that would violate existing law. If you need a break because you have a disability or perhaps youre pregnant, you need a break, she said. The algorithm doesnt necessarily take into account that accommodation. Those are things that we are looking closely at. ... I want to be clear that while we recognize that the technology is evolving, the underlying message here is the laws still apply and we do have tools to enforce. OpenAIs top lawyer, at a conference this month, suggested an industry-led approach to regulation. I think it first starts with trying to get to some kind of standards, Jason Kwon, OpenAIs general counsel, told a tech summit in Washington, DC, hosted by software industry group BSA. Those could start with industry standards and some sort of coalescing around that. And decisions about whether or not to make those compulsory, and also then whats the process for updating them, those things are probably fertile ground for more conversation. Sam Altman, the head of OpenAI, which makes ChatGPT, said government intervention will be critical to mitigate the risks of increasingly powerful AI systems, suggesting the formation of a U.S. or global agency to license and regulate the technology. While theres no immediate sign that Congress will craft sweeping new AI rules, as European lawmakers are doing, societal concerns brought Altman and other tech CEOs to the White House this month to answer hard questions about the implications of these tools. Winters, of the Electronic Privacy Information Center, said the agencies could do more to study and publish information on the relevant AI markets, how the industry is working, who the biggest players are, and how the information collected is being used the way regulators have done in the past with new consumer finance products and technologies. The CFPB did a pretty good job on this with the Buy Now, Pay Later companies, he said. There are so may parts of the AI ecosystem that are still so unknown. Publishing that information would go a long way. Scientists and tech industry leaders, including high-level executives at Microsoft and Google, issued a new warning Tuesday about the perils that artificial intelligence poses to humankind. Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, the statement said. Sam Altman, CEO of ChatGPT maker OpenAI, and Geoffrey Hinton, a computer scientist known as the godfather of artificial intelligence, were among the hundreds of leading figures who signed the statement, which was posted on the Center for AI Safetys website. Worries about artificial intelligence systems outsmarting humans and running wild have intensified with the rise of a new generation of highly capable AI chatbots such as ChatGPT. It has sent countries around the world scrambling to come up with regulations for the developing technology, with the European Union blazing the trail with its AI Act expected to be approved later this year. The latest warning was intentionally succinct just a single sentence to encompass a broad coalition of scientists who might not agree on the most likely risks or the best solutions to prevent them, said Dan Hendrycks, executive director of the San Francisco-based nonprofit Center for AI Safety, which organized the move. Theres a variety of people from all top universities in various different fields who are concerned by this and think that this is a global priority, Hendrycks said. So we had to get people to sort of come out of the closet, so to speak, on this issue because many were sort of silently speaking among each other. More than 1,000 researchers and technologists, including Elon Musk, had signed a much longer letter earlier this year calling for a six-month pause on AI development, saying it poses profound risks to society and humanity. That letter was a response to OpenAIs release of a new AI model, GPT-4, but leaders at OpenAI, its partner Microsoft and rival Google didnt sign on and rejected the call for a voluntary industry pause. By contrast, the latest statement was endorsed by Microsofts chief technology and science officers, as well as Demis Hassabis, CEO of Googles AI research lab DeepMind, and two Google executives who lead its AI policy efforts. The statement doesnt propose specific remedies but some, including Altman, have proposed an international regulator along the lines of the U.N. nuclear agency. Some critics have complained that dire warnings about existential risks voiced by makers of AI have contributed to hyping up the capabilities of their products and distracting from calls for more immediate regulations to rein in their real-world problems. Hendrycks said theres no reason why society cant manage the urgent, ongoing harms of products that generate new text or images, while also starting to address the potential catastrophes around the corner. He compared it to nuclear scientists in the 1930s warning people to be careful even though we havent quite developed the bomb yet. Nobody is saying that GPT-4 or ChatGPT today is causing these sorts of concerns, Hendrycks said. Were trying to address these risks before they happen rather than try and address catastrophes after the fact. The letter also was signed by experts in nuclear science, pandemics and climate change. Among the signatories is the writer Bill McKibben, who sounded the alarm on global warming in his 1989 book The End of Nature and warned about AI and companion technologies two decades ago in another book. Given our failure to heed the early warnings about climate change 35 years ago, it feels to me as if it would be smart to actually think this one through before its all a done deal, he said by email Tuesday. An academic who helped push for the letter said he used to be mocked for his concerns about AI existential risk, even as rapid advancements in machine-learning research over the past decade have exceeded many peoples expectations. David Krueger, an assistant computer science professor at the University of Cambridge, said some of the hesitation in speaking out is that scientists dont want to be seen as suggesting AI consciousness or AI doing something magic, but he said AI systems dont need to be self-aware or setting their own goals to pose a threat to humanity. A former Bosnian refugee who settled in Tucson has been convicted of lying about his ties to police and military forces linked to violent acts during the 1990s war in Bosnia and Herzegovina, officials said. Sinisa Djurdjic, 50, migrated to Tucson under the United States refugee program in 2000. He was convicted in federal court here May 19 of visa fraud and unlawful procurement of citizenship, a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office in Arizona said. The verdict came after a nine-day jury trial presided over by United States District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps. Djurdjic is scheduled to appear for sentencing on Aug. 8. The case dates back to 2009 when Homeland Security Investigations began an investigation into a former member of a police brigade suspected of committing numerous atrocities during the war, the news release said. As part of the investigation, Homeland Security received information indicating that Djurdjic was a member of the brigade. Djurdjic had repeatedly denied serving in foreign military and police units on his immigration applications. An international investigation spanning several years confirmed Djurdjic's association with the police brigade and other Bosnian-Serb military units, the release said. The investigation also established that Djurdjic was involved in mistreating prisoners while working as a prison guard at two prison camps. These camps were established by the Bosnian-Serb entity known as "Republika Srpska" during the civil war. The goal of the camps was "ethnic cleansing" and excluding Bosnian Muslims and Catholic Croats from certain regions in Bosnia, prosecutors said. U.S. agents made multiple trips to Bosnia, conducted interviews with numerous witnesses and gathered documentation from the Bosnian and Serbian governments, as well as from the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia at The Hague. During the trial, five Bosnian men who were former prisoners at the camps testified about the abuses they endured or witnessed at the hands of Djurdjic, the release said. The prosecution also presented extensive evidence demonstrating that Djurdjic had deliberately misled immigration officials by providing false information about his military and police service in order to obtain legal status, the release said. United States Attorney Gary Restaino expressed admiration in the news release for the Bosnian witnesses. "We commend the courage and tenacity of the Bosnians who testified against the defendant and held him accountable for his false statements while seeking legal status in the United States, Restaino said. While Restaino emphasized the significance of providing opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers, he stressed the need to prevent individuals from dishonestly obtaining citizenship. Scott Brown, special agent in charge of Homeland Security in Arizona, echoed Restaino's sentiments in the news release. PHOENIX The state Court of Appeals has opened the door for people convicted of selling small amounts of marijuana in Arizona to now qualify to have their records expunged. The court slapped down a bid by the Arizona Prosecuting Attorney's Advisory Council to interpret a voter-approve law legalizing marijuana in a way that could have blocked thousands of people in that situation from being able to clear prior drug convictions from their records. In a unanimous ruling Tuesday, the three-judge panel said Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Margaret LaBianca erred in not granting the petition by Ethan Sorensen to expunge his conviction. Appellate Judge Brian Furuya, writing for the court, said clearing the records of those who had small amounts of marijuana is exactly what voters intended as part of the 2020 decision to legalize the recreational use of the drug. But what's most notable about the case is that his petition was not opposed by the Maricopa County Attorney's Office which actually prosecuted Sorensen in the first place. In fact, attorneys from that office actually prepared the legal petition to erase the conviction. Instead, Sorensen's efforts were fought by Elizabeth Ortiz, the executive director of the APAAC. That is a separate group made up of prosecutors from state, county and local agencies and a representative of the Arizona Supreme Court. It's mission is to coordinate and provide training and education to prosecutors. But it can file legal briefs in pending cases. And Ortiz used that power to argue to the appellate court that Sorensen's conviction should remain part of his record despite the support for expungement filed by Maricopa prosecutors. Ortiz did not immediately return messages seeking comment or explanation. As approved, Proposition 207 spells out that individuals are entitled to possess up to 2 1/2 ounces of marijuana. And it allows people who already had prior marijuana-related convictions to petition a court for an order that will seal those records if the arrests involved amounts below that threshold. That was the case here. Court records show Sorensen was arrested in 2014 for possessing about two-thirds of an ounce of marijuana. He was charged, though, not with simple possession but possession of the drug for sale, a more serious offense with the possibility of a longer prison sentence. There is no specific amount at which someone is presumed to be possessing the drug for sale. That is decided by police and prosecutors based on what they believe is the intent of the defendant. In a plea agreement, Sorensen pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of solicitation to commit possession of marijuana for sale. That also did away with a separate charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. He was placed on two years' supervised probation. At the end of that time his probation was ended and the court designated the offense a misdemeanor, which is its option. After the 2020 law was adopted, the Maricopa County Attorney's Office the same agency that had prosecuted him asked the judge pursuant to Proposition 207 to seal all records related to Sorensen's arrest and conviction. LaBianca, however, refused, saying it was her belief that the expungement language did not apply since the charge was related to having marijuana for sale. And when the county attorney would not defend the judge's ruling, Ortiz came in on behalf of APAAC to argue to the appellate court on her behalf that LaBianca was right. Furuya disagreed. He said the plain language of the 2020 law allows a record to be sealed in any case that involves "possession" of marijuana. And the judge said there is nothing in the statute that says that law does not apply because of the reason the person had it in this case, as charged with the intent to sell it. The bottom line, Furuya said, is that people like Sorensen, convicted of a sales-related offense, are entitled to have their records sealed if they meet the other requirements of the law, like the amount of drugs involved. That is a significant decision. When Proposition 207 was first approved, advocate estimated that about 192,000 individuals who had been convicted of simple marijuana possession could get their records cleared. And Julie Gunnigle who is the legal director of the Arizona chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Law said the number actually could be in the 250,000 to 500,000 range. But, until now, there has never been a clear ruling about whether those who had enough marijuana to have been considered possessing it for sale the amount is in the eyes of police and prosecutors were also eligible to have their convictions erased. Martin Hutchins, lead attorney for the Reclaim Your Future campaign, praised the ruling. His group is organized by a coalition of legal aid and community outreach nonprofits across the state who provide free resources and assistance to those seeking expungement. "There are many people who were charged with for-sale offenses before the passage of Prop 207 even when they had minimal amounts of marijuana because other factors led officers to assume the person was some sort of dealer," Hutchins said in a prepared statement. Anyway, he said, separating out legal relief based on the intent of the person arrested makes no sense given the current environment. "The state and the cannabis industry is not making millions on marijuana sales," Hutchins said. "So it's fortunate that people who were believed to have committed a sales-related offense can now benefit from expungement." KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) A missing emergency room doctor from Missouri was found dead in Arkansas from an apparent gunshot wound, authorities confirmed Wednesday. But they are still investigating what happened in the week since he was last seen. A kayaker discovered the body of 49-year-old Dr. John Forsyth on Tuesday in Beaver Lake, a large reservoir in northwestern Arkansas, the Benton County Sheriff's Office said. No further information would immediately be released, authorities said, and they didn't specify if he was shot by someone else or if the wound was self-inflicted. The doctors unlocked vehicle with his wallet, two phones, a laptop and other items had been found Sunday near a city-run public pool in Cassville, the town in the Missouri Ozarks where he worked, said his brother Richard Forsyth. The body was found at a location about 20 miles (32 kilometers) away, Arkansas authorities say. Cassville is about 200 miles south of Kansas City. Surveillance video from the pool shows John Forsyths black Infiniti pulling into the parking lot, and a white SUV can be seen parking near him a few minutes later, his brother said in an interview Wednesday. Were devastated, especially at the nature of his passing, Richard Forsyth said. He said Wednesday evening that police had given the family no new details other than investigations into his brothers death and how he went missing were continuing in both states. The last time the two brothers met in person was at dinner on Wednesday, May 17. I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future, Richard Forsyth said in an earlier interview. John Forsyth had recently become engaged to be married, his brother said, and his fiancee was the last known person to communicate with him, texting at around 7 a.m. on Sunday, May 21. The doctor was reported missing that same day when he didn't arrive for work at Mercy Hospital, police have said. Richard Forsyth said the family was mystified by his brother's death and rejected the theory that he might have taken his own life. I dont believe it, he said. John would never do that. I wont accept that possibility. John Forsyth was the father of eight children, his brother said, and was so dedicated to his work that he never missed a day, stayed in an RV near the hospital when he was on call, and was never late for his difficult shifts in the emergency room. His brother-in-law Jason Musgrave in a call with The Associated Press Wednesday from Ozark, Missouri, also rejected the idea of John Forsyth dying by suicide. I feel like it is foul play. I feel like it has to have been, Musgrave said, adding that it was also hard to imagine that anyone who knew him would want to hurt him. He was funny and engaging and the life of a party, Musgrave said. He said the news that his brother-in-law's body had been found had hit the family like a bus full of bricks. Messages seeking comment from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Cassville police on Wednesday were not immediately returned. When the doctor's vehicle was found, several law enforcement agencies searched about a 9-mile (15-kilometer) radius around the aquatic park using people, dogs and drones. Forsyth's family set up a Facebook page seeking information. Gina Forsyth-Farlaino said her brother was smart, confident, loved to help people and was devoted to his family. In the days since his disappearance, she said the family has heard at least three stories of people who he persuaded not to take their own lives. But Forsyth never mentioned those cases to his family, she recalled in an interview Wednesday from Price, Utah. I miss him terribly, Forsyth-Farlaino said. And Im devastated that hes not here. Associated Press writer Lisa Baumann contributed from Bellingham, Washington. Representatives from Tulsas local bookstores and community organizations are speaking out about the need for inclusive spaces, including on bookshelves. As part of a Wednesday afternoon panel at the University of Tulsas Switchyard Festival, Fulton Street Books & Coffee owner Onikah Asamoa-Caesar, Jeff Martin with Booksmart Tulsa, and Michelle Simmons, a volunteer librarian at Oklahomans for Equalitys Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, laid out their concerns about an increase in book banning attempts both nationally and at the local level. It is very much a straw man argument, Simmons said. It sounds really good to combat pornography in schools without really understanding the reasoning behind sex education or those sorts of things. Nationwide, the American Library Association recorded 1,269 demands to remove books from shelves in 2022, with 90% seeking to remove multiple titles simultaneously and 40% seeking to pull 100 titles or more. By comparison, 729 documented challenges were filed in 2021. Among those 1,269 challenges were 15 in Oklahoma targeting 88 titles, including an unsuccessful effort from a parent to remove Me and Earl and the Dying Girl and 13 Reasons Why from the shelves of Bixby Public Schools. Additionally, a measure was filed for the 2023 legislative session by state Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, that would have restricted access to materials in public and school libraries. Although Senate Bill 397 passed the Senate in March, it did not make it out of a conference committee before the regular session ended Friday. When we talk about book bans, they are a direct backlash to the progress we thought we had made in this country, Asamoa-Caesar said. Book bans are the largest form of censorship right now, and, by far, the voices they are censoring are Black, brown and queer. I believe that some of the folks in politics are using this as a way to silence, further marginalize and erode the progress that this country has made in recent years. As part of his introductory remarks, panel moderator and University of Tulsa English professor Sean Latham noted that more people and organizations were invited to participate in the session but declined, with several citing concerns that they would face financial retribution. Even the implicit bans are creating a culture of fear, Latham said. Operating in partnership with the Black Wall Street Legacy Festival and incorporating the World of Bob Dylan, the Switchyard Festival features 14 bands and dozens of presenters focusing on censorship efforts, banned books and aspects of history that sometimes have been omitted from public conversations, such as the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. This isnt about Were funky, offbeat Tulsa doing our thing, Provost George Justice said. This is about us putting debate about cultural matters of the highest importance at the center of conversation in our community. This isnt us thumbing our nose at people who have been objecting to books. Its how do we bring those most important debates in our culture today right here to Tulsa, sponsored by the university. The Switchyard Festival runs through Sunday at Cains Ballroom, the Hyatt Regency Hotel and the Greenwood Cultural Center, with Art Spiegelman and Maia Kobabe among its keynote speakers. A cartoonist, author and comics advocate, Spiegelman is the author of Maus, a Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel about the Holocaust that depicts Jews as anthropomorphized mice and Nazis as cats. The book was banned by a Tennessee school board in 2022 on the grounds that it contained nudity and profanity. Scheduled to speak Wednesday at 7 p.m., Kobabe is the author of Gender Queer, a memoir in graphic novel form. The most challenged book nationwide in 2022, according to the ALA, the title has drawn criticism and complaints of being pornographic, including from State Superintendent Ryan Walters. The ALA says the book was challenged 151 times nationwide in 2022 alone. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. These were the top 10 books people wanted removed from schools and libraries in 2021 1. 'Gender Queer' by Maia Kobabe 2. 'Lawn Boy' by Jonathan Evison 3. 'All Boys Arent Blue' by George M. Johnson 4. 'Out of Darkness' by Ashley Hope Perez 5. 'The Hate U Give' by Angie Thomas 6. 'The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian' by Sherman Alexie 7. 'Me and Earl and the Dying Girl' by Jesse Andrews 8. 'The Bluest Eye' by Toni Morrison 10. 'Beyond Magenta' by Susan Kuklin Federal filings indicate that more than $215,000 has been seized from bank accounts tied to the former head of Tulsa Public Schools human resources department. According to court records filed Tuesday, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Oklahoma has served or, in one instance, attempted to serve notice of civil forfeiture complaints to former TPS Chief Talent Officer Devin Fletcher and two family members after FBI agents seized a combined $216,105.95 from two bank accounts listed under the relatives names. Fletcher resigned from Tulsa Public Schools in June 2022 after irregularities were discovered with vendor contracts within the Talent Management Department. An independent audit of the districts finances and an internal investigation both indicated that at least two vendor contracts connected to Fletcher had no documented business purposes and that Fletcher had circumvented TPS disbursement and conflict of interest policies. A sworn affidavit alleges that Fletcher wired money to a relative who had a contract with the district through an entity called Talented 10th. A bank account in the relatives name received $343,125 in wire transfers from TPS between August 2018 and May 2021, plus an additional $105,000 in wire transfers from a nonprofit organization connected to the district, the Foundation for Tulsa Schools, in early 2022, the document says. Those funds were then transferred to a second bank account with the second family member listed as the primary signatory before being wired directly to Fletcher, the affidavit says. Along with noting that both relatives said they were working under Fletchers direction, the affidavit states that the family member who contracted with TPS told investigators in April that they did not own a business named Talented 10th and did not provide any services for the district or its foundation. TPS only identified 12 emails between (family member name redacted) and TPS over the four-year span of the relationship and none of the emails contain any work product or communication about any services provided by (redacted), and TPS has not been able to document any work completed by (redacted) to support the payments since the allegations, the affidavit says. The emails focused on the payment process and correct address. To date, no criminal charges have been filed, and federal court documents indicate that an investigation into one of the methods used allegedly to misappropriate funds is ongoing. The Tulsa school board voted in April to authorize its attorneys to investigate civil litigation options against Fletcher. The civil forfeiture notice filed with the Northern District of Oklahoma court notes that Fletchers current location is unknown. Both TPS and the Foundation for Tulsa Schools issued written statements Wednesday morning in response to the forfeiture notices. We are grateful to law enforcement officials who have recovered a portion of the funds stolen from our schools, TPS statement reads in part. Since we reported our initial findings to officials nearly a year ago, we have worked closely to share additional evidence from our internal reviews. This action gives us encouragement that a resolution for our community is underway, and we are confident that justice will be served. The Foundation for Tulsa Schools remains focused on its mission to build a better community through the support of Tulsa Public Schools, the foundations statement says. We are disappointed a former TPS employee is alleged to have abused his position of trust by unlawfully diverting funds intended to benefit students and educators. We support the efforts of law enforcement officials to investigate and hold accountable any person responsible for misappropriating these funds. We also support the actions taken by Tulsa Public Schools to address the situation and mitigate any impact to the students and programs that our donors support. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. OKLAHOMA CITY The Oklahoma Supreme Court on Wednesday overturned two state laws that outlawed abortion, but the procedure is still banned in the state. The states high court found by a 6-3 vote that Senate Bill 1503 and House Bill 4327 were unconstitutional. Both measures were passed by the Legislature and signed by Gov. Kevin Stitt in 2022. I again wholeheartedly disagree with the Oklahoma Supreme Courts use of activism to create a right to an abortion in Oklahoma, Stitt said in a written statement. This court has once more over-involved itself in the states democratic process, and has interceded to undo legislation created by the will of the people. Senate Bill 1503, by Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, banned abortion when a fetal heartbeat was detected, which is usually at six weeks and before most people know they are pregnant. It has an exception for a medical emergency but does not define what qualifies as one. House Bill 4327, by former Rep. Wendi Stearman, R-Bartlesville, was described at the time of its passage as the strictest abortion ban in the country. It would have prohibited abortion at conception and allowed for civil suits where a plaintiff could be awarded a minimum of $10,000. It had exceptions to save the life of the mother or in cases of sexual assault or rape that has been reported to law enforcement. The state Supreme Court noted that it had found in March that a pregnant woman has an inherent right to terminate a pregnancy when it is necessary to preserve her life. Despite the courts decisions today on SB 1503 and HB 4327, Oklahomas 1910 law prohibiting abortion remains in place, according to a statement from the Oklahoma Attorney Generals Office. Except for certain circumstances outlined in that statute, abortion is still unlawful in the State of Oklahoma. Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, said the courts new ruling has little to no impact on abortion in Oklahoma. The ruling has no authority over Oklahomas criminal penalties for doctors who perform an abortion, Treat said. After the U.S. Supreme Court accurately ruled in 2022 there is no constitutional right to an abortion in the United States, it remains illegal to get an abortion in Oklahoma, unless it is to save the life of the mother. House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, said he was disappointed with the state Supreme Courts ruling, adding that a supermajority of members in both legislative chambers supported SB 1503 and HB 4327. However, Oklahomans can rest assured that House Republicans will continue to protect the lives of the unborn and pursue legislation that values all life, McCall said in a statement. Thanks to the leadership of House and Senate Republicans, Oklahoma is one of the most pro-life states in the nation. Todays ruling wont change that, and we will continue to be a voice for the voiceless as we strive to protect the right to life in the State of Oklahoma. Treat, as he has done with prior adversarial rulings to state laws, said it is time for judicial reform. The state Supreme Court continues to ignore precedent set by federal and state law and keeps making political decisions outside their authority, Treat said. Oklahoma Call for Reproductive Justice, Tulsa Womens Reproductive Clinic, Dr. Alan Braid, Comprehensive Health of Planned Parenthood Great Plains, and Planned Parenthood of Arkansas and Eastern Oklahoma brought the lawsuit. Oklahoma lawmakers have passed four abortion bans in the last two years with extremely narrow exceptions. Their lack of concern and empathy for pregnant Oklahomans is frightening, said Nancy Northup, president and CEO of the Center for Reproductive Rights. These overlapping bans have created a public health crisis in the state we know pregnant women have been turned away from hospitals and denied medically necessary abortions until they were near death. The Center for Reproductive Rights, which is representing some of the plaintiffs, has a long history of successfully challenging legislation that put additional restrictions on abortion. While it is disappointing that abortion care remains largely out of reach, the state Supreme Courts decision today confirms that pregnant Oklahomans in life-threatening situations should get the care they need, said Priya Desai, board member of Oklahoma Call for Reproductive Justice. Too many pregnant people in my state have been turned away from care despite facing grave threats to their health and lives. But the fight is not over. We will keep working towards a reality where abortion is available in our home communities once again. After months of uncertainty and chaos, Oklahomans should finally be able to access the life-saving care they need in their home state, Braid said. Heartbreakingly, we were forced to close our Tulsa clinic due to Oklahomas abortion bans, but I will continue to serve patients in the region at clinics in Illinois and New Mexico. History of Oklahomas stricken abortion measures 2012 The Oklahoma Supreme Court threw out a law requiring any woman seeking an abortion to have an ultrasound within an hour before the procedure and have what was on the images described to her. The court also overturned another law that put restrictions on the RU-486 abortion-inducing drug and a ban on all medication abortions. The court also struck down an issue before it could be added to the state ballot that would have let voters decide on an initiative defining a fertilized egg as a person, thereby banning abortion and most forms of contraception. 2014 An Oklahoma County judge threw out a law that would have required girls younger than 17 to have a prescription to obtain the morning after birth control pill. The Oklahoma Supreme Court in 2019 upheld the unconstitutionality of a law that would have required doctors who treat women seeking a medication abortion to use a decade-older method that is less safe, less effective and more expensive than the current method, according to the Center for Reproductive Rights. It sought to require doctors to follow U.S. Food and Drug Administration protocols and bar off-label uses. 2015 An Oklahoma County judge issued an injunction on a law that would have banned dilation and evacuation, a common second-trimester abortion procedure. 2016 Gov. Mary Fallin vetoed a bill that would have made it a felony for physicians to perform abortions and revoke their medical licenses unless the abortion was necessary to save the life of the mother. The Oklahoma Supreme Court threw out a law targeted against child rapists that would have forced abortion providers to take a sample of the fetal tissue when the abortion patient was younger than 14 and send it to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. The state high court on Dec. 14 struck down a law that would have required doctors who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Abortion in America: How access and attitudes have changed through the centuries Abortion in America: How access and attitudes have changed through the centuries Pre-1850: Abortions in early America are commonplace Mid-1800s: Birth of the American Medical Association shifts abortion oversight from midwives to doctors; abortion is criminalized 1960s: 'Back-alley butchers,' birth control, and protests 1970s: Roe v. Wade protects women's right to abortion; politics shift 1980s-2000s: Legal challenges to Roe v. Wade introduce restrictions 2020s: Roe v. Wade is overturned; Postal Service allowed to mail abortion medication Tulsa Race Massacre / The Tulsa World Library: See all of the coverage of the race massacre in this special report. "The first time Americans were terrorized by an aerial assault was not Pearl Harbor," a CBS News story says leading up to coverage this weekend of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. "Scott Pelley reports on a race massacre in which an estimated 300 people, mostly African American men, women and children, were killed, and aircraft were used to drop incendiary devices on a black neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The Greenwood Massacre of 1921 has been largely ignored by history, but Pelley finds a Tulsa community seeking to shed more light on what's been called the worst race massacre in history," a preview reads for a "60 Minutes" story airing 6 p.m. Sunday on CBS. Context for viewers: Six airplanes circled the Greenwood area during the morning hours of June 1. What they were doing, and why there were so many, has long been a matter of passionate debate. Many people believe they were used to shoot at people on the ground and bomb Greenwood. Officials said the small craft, generally thought to be two-seat, single-engine Curtis Jenny biplanes, were merely keeping track of activities on the ground and relaying the information through written messages dropped in weighted metal cylinders attached to streamers. To what extent this explanation was initially challenged is unclear, but in October 1921 the Chicago Defender published a story in which it said Greenwood had been bombed under orders of prominent city officials. The story cited a Van B. Hurley, who the newspaper said had given a signed statement to Elisha Scott, a Kansas attorney. Scott filed dozens of lawsuits on behalf of victims but doesnt seem to have ever entered the Hurley affidavit into the record. There is no record of a Van B. Hurley living in Tulsa around the time of the massacre or that anyone by that name ever belonged to the Tulsa police force. But that doesnt mean the story did not have substance. Many people believed city officials were behind the burning of Greenwood, and the explanation that the squadron of planes was only used for surveillance struck some as suspiciously thin. Certainly the planes had a great psychological impact on many. For example, Mary Jones Parrish wrote about them in her account, as did prominent attorney B.C. Franklin in his. The Defender story said the planes dropped nitroglycerin on buildings, setting them afire. But nitroglycerin is an explosive, not an incendiary. It is also highly unstable and dangerous. That has caused some to speculate that something like Molotov cocktails might have been used, or turpentine balls rags soaked in flammable liquid and wrapped around the head of a stick. There are several practical reasons why trying to light and throw incendiary devices from an open cockpit airplane of that era would seem a difficult, dangerous and even foolish idea. But that doesnt mean it wasnt done. Tulsa Race Massacre / The Tulsa World Library: See all of the coverage of the race massacre in this special report. Tulsa Race Massacre: This is what happened in Tulsa in 1921 An email threat sent to Oklahoma State Department of Education employees last week has already resulted in terminations and subsequent civil lawsuits claiming wrongful termination and violation of employees constitutional right to free speech. Named in two lawsuits filed Tuesday are Superintendent Ryan Walters and his former campaign manager, Matt Langston, who now works as his chief policy adviser of administrative services at the State Department of Education. On Thursday, Langston emailed employees of the state agency a final warning that immediate termination would be the consequence of leaking documents to unauthorized individuals, including members of the media. Oklahoma City Attorney Mark Hammons filed federal lawsuits Tuesday on behalf of two employees who were terminated Thursday and Friday, respectively. Plaintiff Cheryl McGee claims she was fired from her job as executive director of school-based mental health on Thursday for supposedly leaking Langstons email threat to the media. In a separate case, plaintiff Matthew Colwell claims he was fired as program manager of school success on Friday for sharing information with the office of Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond and with an Oklahoma state representative. Specifically, the information Colwell claims to have shared was a memorandum explaining that a teacher pay plan that Walters has proposed contravened the requirements of federal and state laws and could have the effect of costing the State of Oklahoma approximately $18 million. He notified a member of the AGs Office and notified a state representative who had been involved in adopting the law Walters plan was going to violate, Hammons told the Tulsa World on Tuesday. The next day he was fired. This is traditional whistleblowing. In late April, Walters had staged a press conference in front of local school students and educators in a high school gymnasium in the Muskogee County town of Warner to announce his plan to spend $16 million in federal funds for one-time signing bonuses of $15,000 to $50,000 for new teachers of special education or prekindergarten through third grade in rural or other districts with high rates of student poverty. Apparently, Langston sent to employees on Thursday morning different versions of the final warning email with subtle variations in word choices and word spacing. Langston himself tweeted later that day that by doing so he had succeeded in catching leakers and that the idea came from Tesla and Twitter owner Elon Musk. On Twitter, Langston specifically cited a December 2022 article published by The Intercept titled How Elon Musk Says He Catches Leakers at His Companies. In 2008, the Silicon Valley-focused blog Valleywag published a letter from a Tesla insider stating that the company only had about $9 million in cash on hand. Four days later, a Tesla employee apologized for writing the letter. When recently asked on Twitter how Tesla identified the leaker, Musk responded that we sent what appeared to be identical emails to all, but each was actually coded with either one or two spaces between sentences, forming a binary signature that identified the leaker, reads The Intercept piece. The email (threat) I think is a wrongful act when you try to stifle the ability of state employees to speak. Youre denying the public the ability to receive information from the best, most reliable source, said the plaintiffs attorney, Hammons, who himself served as an Oklahoma state representative from 1972 to 1978. As for a confidentiality agreement to which Langston referred in the employee email, Hammons said: My clients dont know anything about a confidentiality agreement. They dont recall signing anything like that, but there is a provision in the Oklahoma Constitution prohibiting a contract waiving constitutional rights. It amounts to a gag order. If it exists, I would like to know about it. There are so many problems, legal and ethical, and just good government. Democracy doesnt work if theres no transparency, and for an office holder to essentially say, Im going to conduct my public office business in secret, and nobody can know what is going on. A spokesman for the State Department of Education did not respond to questions asking how many employees have been terminated as a result of the final warning email or to confirm the existence of an employee confidentiality agreement. In response to a request for comment on the lawsuits, Walters spokesman Justin Holcomb said: These legal claims are absurd, frivolous, and a waste of taxpayer time and money. Its a political stunt with no legal merit. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Second District Congressman Josh Brecheen intends to vote against the debt ceiling and spending agreement reached by President Joe Biden and Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, he said Tuesday. Brecheen, a Republican, said the agreement does not reduce spending enough. I cannot in good conscience vote for a deal that continues to kick the can down the road at the expense of our kids and grandkids. This is a huge missed opportunity to turn our nation away from a fiscal cliff, and I urge my colleagues to vote NO on the Biden-McCarthy agreement as it currently stands, Brecheen said in a written statement. Brecheens decision likely puts him in opposition to at least two other Republican members of Oklahomas House delegation. Fifth District Congresswoman Stephanie Bice said over the weekend that she would support the agreement. Fourth District Congressman Tom Cole has made no public pronouncement on the deal but is a close ally of McCarthys and chairs the House Rules Committee, which began Tuesday afternoon deciding which amendments to the agreement, if any, are heard. First District Congressman Kevin Hern and 3rd District Congressman Frank Lucas have not commented publicly on the agreement. Officials say the federal government will begin defaulting on debt within a week if the limit is not raised. Those defaults are expected to trigger an economic crisis. Conservatives such as Brecheen see the situation as an opportunity to leverage drastic spending cuts and reverse Biden policies. Brecheen said he wants something closer to the bill passed by the Republican House majority earlier this year. The Biden-McCarthy agreement only includes approximately 1.3% or less of the real year one savings that House Republicans passed several weeks ago, Brecheen said. The first-year savings were transformative, and that bill also included eight major policy reforms, which were gutted with the proposed debt ceiling agreement with Biden. Brecheen is among at least 24 Republicans who have said they wont vote for the debt limit agreement, meaning it can pass the House only with Democratic support. Some think that has been the case all along because a handful of Republicans seemed likely to have opposed anything that wasnt very close to the earlier legislation Brecheen mentioned. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. The debt ceiling has existed since 1917. Here's how it's impacted government spending ever since The debt ceiling has existed since 1917. Here's how it's impacted government spending ever since When was the debt ceiling imposed? How often has the ceiling been changed? Who else has a debt ceiling? President Reagan campaigns against the federal debt Speaker Gingrich upends Washington Debt ceiling crisis results in credit rating drop Crisis averted when ceiling suspended Suspending the debt ceiling for two years Another debt ceiling deadline looms Business practices are not sustainable if they do not take account of their impact on children, said a UNICEF Vietnam representative at a child rights and business forum held on Tuesday in Hanoi. The forum, co-held by UNICEF Vietnam and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), underlined the need for responsible business practices that respect child rights and prevent adverse human rights impacts. Speaking at the event, Rana Flowers, representative of UNICEF in Vietnam, said that children, whom she described as the present and the future, should be a key consideration in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) assessments. Businesses should assess impacts and risks objectively, and identify key practices that can minimize those risks and create a positive impact on children. In doing so, businesses will be able to enhance their competitiveness and sustainability and win the support of stakeholders, especially investors, who are socially conscious and looking at ESG risks and how businesses are managing them, the UNICEF representative said. Vietnam is increasingly involved in the global supply chain and more rigorously integrated into the global economy. The Southeast Asian nation has signed over 15 trade agreements and has reaffirmed its commitment to respecting international fundamental principles and rights in the workplace. Also, Vietnam is in the process of developing a national action plan to improve laws and policies to advance responsible business practices for the 2023-27 period. The draft plan adopts the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, ensuring that all business practices are underpinned by clear human rights commitments. At the forum, participants discussed and agreed that greater attention and distinctive measures should be included in the plan to ensure the prevention and mitigation of adverse impacts and accelerating outcomes for children in health, nutrition, education, protection, and participation. Nguyen Quang Vinh, vice-chairman at VCCI said, "Prioritizing the practice of ESG not only helps domestic businesses meet international standards, but also equips them with the ability to enter the global market. This, in turn, promotes responsible business operations and creates a more sustainable future for everyone. The forum, entitled 'Responsible Businesses for Vietnams Thriving Next Generation,' gathered representatives from over 100 businesses, government, social organizations, and academia. The event provided a platform for participants to exchange their knowledge, experience, and best practices on integrating child rights into business operations and supply chains; adopt policies, assessments and practices that uphold child rights; and identify challenges and opportunities for businesses to implement child rights practices. The participants also talked with children and the youth to listen to and understand their needs. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Department of Industry and Trade of Ho Chi Minh City has said it will join hands with cross-border e-commerce platforms to support local exporters in shipping products to the world on a larger scale and in a more professional way. This is among the solutions that the city will adopt this year to help Vietnamese enterprises overcome difficulties and foster industrial production, trade, and green export. Enhancing business via online and digital channels will help exporting enterprises reduce costs and access customers faster, said Nguyen Nguyen Phuong, deputy director of the municipal Department of Industry and Trade. The department has worked with many e-commerce platforms and service providers to come up with support solutions, Phuong noted. Enterprises also need to take the initiative in cooperating with partners to better meet the requirements in importing markets. Huynh Kim Tuoc, co-chairman of the Digital Economy and Technology Committee under the American Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam, said the committee will cooperate with the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade in organizing training courses on e-commerce and providing specific consultancy to help enterprises create products meeting international standards. It also wants to change enterprises viewpoint that online exports are only suitable for small and micro firms. In reality, large enterprises can also export their products online. Not only fashion and consumer goods but also farm produce can be effectively exported online, Tuoc added. Vietnam was among the top five markets with the highest growth in online exports last year and the potential for online exports is still ample. Vietnam has advantages in producing various agricultural products but it has yet to effectively attract international buyers, said Nguyen Dinh Tung, vice-chairman of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association. As soon as Vietnams ST25 was named the best rice variety in the world, we started exporting the rice to the U.S. but the journey has been tough," Tung shared. Without investment and endurance, it would be hard to stand firm in foreign markets. Besides quality, Vietnam should develop brands for agricultural product exports, he added. The country exported US$20.26 billion worth of agro-forestry-fishery products in the first five months of this year, down 11.1 percent year on year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. China, the U.S., and Japan were the largest importing markets for these products from Vietnam with a respective proportion of 20.4, 19.8, and 7.8 percent. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! For decades there has been almost no improvement in the medical treatment of schizophrenia, one of the most serious and devastating of all mental illnesses, but recent advances have raised hopes of progress. The condition often only hits the headlines after violent attacks by sufferers, such as a schizophrenic patient who stabbed a nurse to death last week in the French city of Reims. But French psychiatrist Sonia Dollfus emphasised that such cases of violence by people with schizophrenia are "extremely rare". "All the work done over the years trying to de-stigmatise this disease -- it is swept away in 24 hours," Dollfus told AFP. Around one in every 300 people worldwide are affected by schizophrenia, according to the World Health Organization. It causes a wide range of distressing delusional disorders, which vary in intensity between patients but often hugely disrupts their lives. At least five percent of schizophrenia patients are estimated to die by suicide. The condition is usually treated with a combination of anti-psychotic drugs, social support for reintegration, and psychological therapy. Scottish psychiatrist Robin Murray, who has spent decades researching schizophrenia, told AFP that when it came to medication, "treatment has not changed dramatically" over the last 20 or 30 years. He added that psychological therapy had improved in that time. But unlike numerous other mental disorders -- particularly neurotic conditions -- taking serious drugs remains the cornerstone in treating schizophrenia. Innovation For drugs, there has been a "blank period since the 2010s, when pharmaceutical laboratories really withdrew from psychiatry," Dollfus said. But there has been some innovation recently, she added. One development have been apps that can track patients' progress, ensure timely follow-up sessions and contact psychiatrists if necessary. Another is a new treatment approved by the US Food and Drug Administration last month. The treatment, developed by the Israeli pharmaceutical firm Teva and France's MedinCell, involves the drug risperidone which has long been used for schizophrenia. It has traditionally been prescribed as a daily pill, but the new treatment is administered via injection, allowing the drug to be gradually released in the body over several weeks. This makes it impossible for patients to miss a daily pill. Interruptions to medication, often brought about by the psychosis the illness causes, are a common problem in treating schizophrenia. For example, the attacker in Reims had been off his medication, according to several sources. 'Really promising' This new way of administering an old medication is not the kind of revolution that a new drug would represent. But progress may soon be made in that area. Dollfus said that some drugs currently being investigated are "really interesting" because they work in a different way than those of the past. Traditionally, anti-psychotic drugs used to treat schizophrenia aim to block the action of dopamine, a molecule that acts as a chemical messenger in the brain. However, dopamine seems to play a complex role in schizophrenia -- some patients can have excessive levels in some respects and insufficient levels in others. Traditional anti-psychotic drugs, which tend to work well at stopping certain symptoms such as hallucinations, do not help in other areas, such as the loss of willpower or struggles with language and speech. Recent research has focused on finding other molecules which regulate rather than block dopamine, while also acting on other areas thought to be involved in schizophrenia. These treatments, such as one that targets a protein called TAAR1, are still some way away from being available to patients. But the TAAR1 drug has had positive results from the most advanced stage of trials, known as phase 3. "This is a really promising avenue," Dollfus said. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will pay an official visit to Vietnam on Saturday at the invitation of Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This will be his first visit to Vietnam since he took office in 2022. The Australian prime ministers visit will be made two months after Australian Governor-General David Hurleys state visit to Vietnam. His two-day visit is aimed at marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Vietnam and Australia. Australian Prime Minister Albanese will meet several top Vietnamese officials during his trip, said the Australian Embassy in Vietnam. The leaders will come to the table about measures to deepen the partnership in trade, investment, education, energy, and environmental protection," the embassy said. Vietnam is one of Australias key strategic economic partners in Southeast Asia, which is a focus of Australian Prime Minister Albanese." My first official visit to Vietnam is meant to celebrate 50 years of the two nations diplomatic ties and strengthen two-way cooperation in various fields, Prime Minister Albanese said in an announcement released by the Australian Embassy on Tuesday. Vietnam and Australia established their diplomatic relationship in February 1973. Over the past 50 years, bilateral ties have thrived and made great strides in numerous fields. Many major works in Vietnam have been backed by Australia. Among them are My Thuan 1 Bridge, which connects Tien Giang Province with Vinh Long Province in the Mekong Delta region, and Cao Lanh Bridge in Dong Thap Province in the same region. Vietnam is the Australian prime ministers second destination during his trip to Southeast Asia. He will travel to Singapore to sit in on the 20th Shangri-La Dialogue before arriving in Vietnam. He was sworn into office on May 23, 2022. He previously served as deputy prime minister. He is well known for his ability to connect stakeholders, enterprises, and people to advance the economic growth and improve peoples standard of living in Australia. When serving as Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, he launched multiple big-ticket projects. Many parts of Australia were connected by roads and rail links. During his official Vietnam visit in April, Australian Governor-General Hurley and Vietnamese State President Vo Van Thuong reached a consensus on upgrading the two-way relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership at the right time. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! One man died and at least two others were injured after a truck slammed into multiple motorcycles which were stopping at a red light in Binh Duong Province, southern Vietnam on Tuesday evening. The fatal crash took place on a My Phuoc-Tan Van Road section in the provincial city of Thuan An at around 7:00 pm, when the truck was en route from Thuan An Hoa Street to My Phuoc-Tan Van Road. The truck driver was identified as Ha Dinh Be, 43, residing in the provincial city of Tan Uyen. At the scene of the accident, three damaged motorcycles were found lying in front of the truck. One of the victims, identified as Tran Chi Cuong, 20, a native of northern Nam Dinh Province, was crushed to death by the truck. Meanwhile, Mai Van Han, 36, residing in Binh Duong, and Pham Ngoc Thuy, 43, a native of north-central Quang Binh Province, were injured and rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. The truck also hit a tractor-trailer, leaving both damaged. Police are investigating the cause of the deadly crash. My Phuoc-Tan Van is a major road for freight transport that links Binh Duong with neighboring Ho Chi Minh City and other southeastern provinces. A large number of trucks and tractor-trailers travel on this road every day, posing a high risk of traffic accidents. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Read what is in the news in Vietnam today: Politics -- Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will pay an official visit to Vietnam from this weekend at the invitation of Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. -- The Indian government will cooperate with the Vietnam Yoga Federation in organizing the 2023 International Yoga Day across 22 provinces and cities in the Southeast Asian country at the end of June, as part of a range of cultural exchange, tourism, trade, and investment promotion events marking 50 years of diplomatic ties between the two nations, Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City, announced at a press conference on Tuesday. Society -- A court in Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam sentenced a 44-year-old local woman to 13 months imprisonment on Tuesday for resisting officers on duty by various actions, including threatening to kiss a traffic policeman to death. -- A 45-seater passenger bus rear-ended a truck and overturned a 16-seater van on La Son-Tuy Loan Expressway in Da Nang City, killing one woman on the spot and necessitating 13 others hospitalization on Tuesday afternoon. -- The Ministry of Transport has assigned the My Thuan Project Management Board to make a pre-feasibility study report for the Can Tho 2 Bridge project, which is part of the North-South Expressway. -- A truck plowed through several motorcycles at a red light on My Phuoc-Tan Van Street in southern Binh Duong Province on Tuesday evening, killing a man instantly and causing two others to be hospitalized. -- Doctors at Lam Dong General Hospital in the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong successfully performed surgery to save a worker who suffered an occupational accident resulting in two iron bars piercing through the abdomen up to the neck earlier this week. Business -- Vietnamese Internet search and browser firm Coc Coc has introduced a pair of products, Coc Coc AI Chat and Coc Coc AI Search, which are now available completely free of charge to Vietnamese users. -- Phan Van Mai, chairman of the Peoples Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, revealed during a meeting held on Tuesday that the city is projected to gain an economic growth rate of 5.87 percent in the second quarter of 2023. Lifestyle -- Lonely Planet, the world-renowned travel guide, recently named Vietnams North-South Railway the most incredible train journey in the world. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Nhon-Hanoi Station metro line project, the second of its kind in Hanoi, has just had its total investment revised up by VND1,916 billion (US$82 million) and its completion date delayed until 2027. The prime minister passed a decision on Tuesday approving the cost increase and delay of the project, after considering a proposal from the municipal administration and the Ministry of Planning and Investment. According to the Cabinet leaders decision, the completion time of the project is now 2027, while its revised price tag is VND34,826 billion ($1.4 billion). The prime minister asked the Ministry of Finance to work with the Hanoi administration and relevant agencies to complete procedures required for the capital adjustment. The Nhon-Hanoi Station metro line will run 12.5 kilometers from Nhon in Nam Tu Liem District to the Hanoi Railway Station in the downtown area, with 8.5 kilometers on elevated tracks, four kilometers underground, and one depot. Work on the metro line began on September 25, 2010 and its phase one was initially scheduled for completion in late 2015. However, the project was delayed several times for various reasons. The Hanoi administration was set to put the elevated sections into service in April 2021 and the entire route in late 2022 but failed to meet the deadlines. The Hanoi Metropolitan Railway Management Board (MRB) said that the Nhon-Hanoi Station metro line was a major and complicated project which would apply novel, foreign technologies. Despite huge efforts, the project still faced a number of obstacles, such as prolonged site clearance, ineffective cooperation between the project developer and relevant units, the limited capability of Hancorp, a contractor in charge of the depot construction, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to delays and cost overruns, the MRB explained. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Doctors at Lam Dong General Hospital in the eponymous province in Vietnam's Central Highlands region successfully performed surgery to save a worker who suffered an occupational accident resulting in two iron bars piercing through his abdomen up to the shoulder earlier this week. The hospital announced on Tuesday that the worker, 27-year-old Ngo Xuan Q., living in Lam Dongs Da Lat City, still requires vigilant observation to avoid any potential complexities arising from organ injuries despite surviving the critical phase. Q. was admitted to the hospital on Sunday with two iron bars, which are often used to build house foundations, impaling his body and his respiratory condition progressively deteriorating. The X-ray result of Ngo Xuan Q. at Lam Dong General Hospital in Lam Dong Province, Vietnam. Photo: V.T. / Tuoi Tre One bar penetrated his body from the hip to the shoulder blade, making contact with the neck, and the other bar pierced from the front to the back of the shoulder. The mans family said he suffered a workplace accident as a construction worker. His colleagues used a chainsaw to shorten the iron bars to around 35-50 centimeters long before taking Q. to the hospital. Surgeons operate on Ngo Xuan Q. at Lam Dong General Hospital in Lam Dong Province, Vietnam. Photo: V.T. / Tuoi Tre Following the preoperative assessment, doctors determined that the bars punctured the patients lungs, diaphragm, and liver. The doctors carried out surgery to successfully remove the iron bars from the patient. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A court in Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam sentenced a 44-year-old local woman to a combined 20 months in prison on Tuesday after threatening to kiss a traffic policeman until her death. Nguyen Thi Ngan, a 44-year-old native of Thanh Hoas Ba Thuoc District, was found guilty of resisting officers on duty by various actions, including threatening to kiss a traffic policeman till her death, and intentionally causing injuries to other people. As per the indictment by the Peoples Procuracy of Ba Thuoc, when Captain Bui Tuan Quy was filing a violation record on National Highway 217 at around 11:20 am on February 16 during the performance of his duty with a team of six officers, Ngan approached him, requesting a waiver for her daughter-in-laws violation on failing to wear a crash helmet. When Quy declined Ngans request, she snatched and crumpled the violation record, repeatedly cursing the traffic police team. Ngan proceeded to lift her own T-shirt and slander Captain Quy, claiming he had groped her. Upon the arrival of Captain Bui Duy Hoa to support Quy, Ngan struck Hoas left hand with her own, causing his mobile phone to fall to the ground and to sustain significant damage, and also bit his hand during the process of his restraining her. This video shows Nguyen Thi Ngan hurling insults at and acting vulgarly around traffic police officers on duty in Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam, February 16, 2023. The officers then handcuffed Ngan behind her back, but she continued to hurl insults at and act vulgarly around the policemen. She loudly exclaimed to the officers, I have to kiss you from now on until I die, and subsequently made an attempt to kiss one of the officers, leading him to quickly dodge to the side. The trial panel of the Peoples Court of Ba Thuoc District determined that Ngans actions were perilous to society, violated the administrative order of the state, and caused damage to the well-being, reputation, and dignity of the officers on duty. Therefore, the court issued a verdict sentencing Ngan to 13-month imprisonment for the offense of resisting officers on duty and an additional seven months in prison for the charge of intentionally causing injuries to others. The cumulative penalty amounts to a total of 20 months behind bars. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Among destinations for solo travelers, Ho Chi Minh City is most suitable for solo backpackers, according to U.S. online magazine Money.com. The Vietnamese metropolis is a bustling and affordable place that offers a wide range of attractions to solo travelers, from the inexpensive food and accommodations to an abundance of cultural and historical sites. Its vibrant culture, friendly people, and amazing food attract millions of tourists annually," Money.com said. "And its also one of Vietnams safest cities. The website recommends travelers try some of the mouth-watering street food available in every corner of the city, especially in District 1, District 3, and District 5, do shopping at Ben Thanh Market, and visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon in District 1. Travelers can book tours to the Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City. It is also easy to get around the city with many transportation options, from buses, taxis to motorbikes, and metro lines in the near future. Ho Chi Minh City welcomed nearly 1.4 million foreign tourists and 10.6 million local travelers in the first four months of this year, according to the municipal Department of Tourism. The city set a target to serve five million international arrivals as well as over 35 million domestic visitors and generate some VND160 trillion (US$6.8 million) in tourism revenue this year. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City will team up with the Vietnam Yoga Federation to roll out the 2023 International Yoga Day in 22 provinces and cities in Vietnams southern region at the end of June. This edition will be the biggest ever since the yoga fest was first launched in the Southeast Asian nation in 2015, Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City Madan Mohan Sethi told a press briefing on Tuesday. The yoga event is part of a wide range of cultural exchange, tourism, trade, and investment promotion events to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties between Vietnam and India, said the consul general. Speaking at the press conference, Sethi affirmed that Vietnam plays an important role in Indias Act East Policy, an effort by the Indian government to cultivate extensive economic and strategic relations with Southeast Asia. India strongly believes in Vietnams support, he added. Both India and Vietnam see mutual respect and trust as the pivot of long-lasting relations between the two nations. We can make this partnership even stronger amid ongoing global uncertainties, Sethi underlined. Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City Madan Mohan Sethi (R, 5th) and guests pose for a photo at a press briefing on May 30, 2023. Photo: Consulate General of India Culture exchange acts as a boost for Vietnam India ties The exchange of culture traits, especially related to Buddhism and yoga, plays a significant role in the two nations relations, Sethi said. Over the past few months, the Consulate General of India has initiated a host of cultural exchange events in 11 cities and provinces in southern Vietnam. Apart from the upcoming yoga festival, a delegation of cultural experts from Can Tho City in the Mekong Delta region will travel to India to deepen cultural cooperation in July. Besides, the consulate general is planning to join hands with the Ho Chi Minh City University of Fine Arts and the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Association to promote traditional cultural exchange. Stronger partnership in various fields The Indian diplomat expressed his high expectations for tourism growth between the two countries. With the popularity of e-visas, Sethi predicted that 500,000 Indian tourists would travel to Vietnam in 2023, a three-fold surge year on year. The representative of India also eyes deeper cooperation in education and manpower training for the technology-information, international trade, and pharmacy sectors, which are Indias strengths. The two nations will accelerate student exchanges to widen their skills and knowledge, Sethi said. He also called on technology students and startups in Vietnam to connect with India partners in this field to enhance tech cooperation between the two countries. The Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City will host a conference to beef up collaboration with the Mekong Delta region on June 28, with the participation of nearly 100 Indian enterprises. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! 9Now will fast-track Love Island UK hosted by Maya Jama, next month. Filmed in Mallorca, Spain episodes screen daily from June 7th. This season will see the return of new host, English radio DJ and TV star, Maya Jama, after taking over the reigns of all the villa action for the first time in last seasons winter edition earlier this year. Narrator and famed comedian Iain Stirling also returns to commentate on all that unfolds as the Islanders flirt, date, re-couple, break up and make up. Entering the villa in Season 10: beautician Ruchee (24), semi-professional footballer Tyrique (24), musical theatre performer and social media creator Molly (21), business development executive George (24), commercial real estate agent Catherine (22), communications manager Mehdi (26), model Ella (23), gas engineer Mitchel (26), aesthetics practitioner Jess (22) and business owner Andre (21). This group of sexy singles must couple up to secure their place in the villa or risk being dumped and sent packing, in the hopes of winning 50,000 ($90,000) and finding love. They must also win the hearts of the public, as viewers will ultimately decide their fate and the winners of Love Island UK. Wednesday, June 7, at 6.00pm AEST on 9Now. A man alleged to have made threats to Q+A presenter Stan Grant today appeared in Fairfield Local Court. Michael Davis, 41, is charged with four counts of using a carriage service to threaten serious harm and to menace, harass or offend. Court documents show Mr Davis is accused of using his Facebook profile to threaten to cause serious harm by assaulting the victim. He is also accused of menacing or harassing Stan Grants wife, Tracey Holmes, and children on Twitter. ABC reports his lawyer told the court his client was very nervous about appearing and lived with anxiety. He did not answer questions from journalists outside court. The case is adjourned until August. Bail conditions stipulate that Davis must not assault, threaten, stalk, harass or intimidate Grant or Holmes, destroy or damage their property or harm any animal that belongs to them. He must not approach Grant or Holmes or contact them in any way, including via social media, and must not attempt to find the couple. An apprehended violence order, taken out against Davis by police on behalf of Grant, was also adjourned in Sydneys Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday. Meanwhile Stan Grant appeared via video at a Cannes in Cairns event yesterday after police warned it would potentially be dangerous for him to attend. He received a standing ovation after telling a packed room of the struggles he experienced during his time in newsrooms. Source: ABC, SMH, 6PR, B&T, Daily Mail China, New Zealand to further enhance science cooperation Xinhua) 13:14, May 31, 2023 WELLINGTON, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Science officials of China and New Zealand on Tuesday discussed ways to deepen cooperation in science and technology innovation in Wellington. Chinese Minister of Science and Technology Wang Zhigang and New Zealand's Research, Science and Innovation Minister Ayesha Verrall co-chaired the 6th China-New Zealand Joint Commission Meeting on Science and Technology Cooperation. The two ministers discussed the signing of the next five-year roadmap of cooperation in science and technology, setting priority areas for deeper collaboration. Wang said science and technology was one of important areas of cooperation between China and New Zealand. China will work with New Zealand to provide more support to universities, research institutions, enterprises and researchers of both countries to carry out science and technology innovation cooperation and create a favorable cooperation environment, thus providing more solutions for the global response to common challenges, Wang said. "China is one of our key science and innovation partners," Verrall said, adding the two sides have mutual research interests in food, environmental and health sciences. New Zealand and Chinese scientists have been cooperating for more than 40 years, she said. Following their meeting, the ministers visited the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) (ES) The year is 2050. The location is London but not as we know it. GodBot, a robot so intelligent it can out-smart any human, is in charge of the United Kingdom the entire planet, in fact and just announced its latest plan to reverse global temperature rises: an international zero-child, zero-reproduction policy, which will see all human females systematically destroyed and replaced with carbon-neutral sex robots. This chilling scenario is, of course, entirely fictional though if naysayers are to be believed, it could become a reality in as soon as a few decades, if we humans dont act now. Last night, dozens of AI experts including the heads of ChatGPT creator OpenAI and Google Deepmind warned that AI could lead to the extinction of humanity and that mitigating its risk should be as much of a global priority as pandemics and nuclear war. The statement, published on the website of the Centre for AI Safety, is the latest in a series of almost hourly warnings of the existential threat machines pose to humanity over recent months, with everyone from historian Yuval Noah Harari to some of the creators of AI itself speaking out about the problems humanity may face, from AI being weaponised to humans becoming dependent on it. The so-called godfather of AI, Dr Geoffrey Hinton, whose work on neural networks and deep learning has paved the way or modern AI, recently quit his job at Google so that he could warn humanity about the dangers of continuing to probe into this technological Pandoras Box. He went as far as to say he regrets some of his work and cautioned against some of the potentially catastrophic effects the tech could pose if governments dont step in and regulate. Right now, [robots are] not more intelligent than us, as far as I can tell. But I think they soon may be, he said on announcing his resignation from Google. According to a recent study, half of all AI researchers believe there is at least a 10 per cent chance of AI causing human extinction, with many warning that robots could be capable of human-like goals such as attaining high political office, starting new religions or even playing God. Googles boss Sundar Pichai admits the thought keeps him awake at night. ChatGPTs creator Sam Altman says hes a little bit scared of the technology. DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona has likened the relationship between humans and AI to a war between chimps and humans. And Stuart Russell one of the worlds leading AI pioneers who has advised Downing Street and the White House has even likened the recent AI boom to what would happen if the world was to detect an alien civilisation. Weve got the Europeans calling for an emergency global summit. Youve got China basically banning large language models. Weve got the White House, calling in all the [technology industry] CEOs for an emergency meeting. I mean, its sort of what you would imagine might happen if we really did detect an alien civilisation, he said earlier this month. The stakes couldnt be higher: if we dont control our own civilisation, we have no say in whether we continue to exist. AI: the end of civilisation as we know it? (Craiyon.com) Russell and more than 1,000 academics and tech moguls including Elon Musk and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak have now signed an open letter sounding the alarm on this out-of-control AI race, calling for an immediate six-month pause in the development of AI technology before its too late. So what actually is this worst case scenario if governments dont step in could the doomsday situation above really become a reality? Is the pace-of-change really so fast that we could see anything like this in our lifetime? And is all of this just dangerous scaremongering or could machines actually become so powerful and intelligent that they kill humans off altogether? Theoretically yes, if you ask most experts and even AI chatbots themselves. Ask AI model Craiyon to draw what the last selfie taken on Earth could look like and it produces nightmarish scenes of zombies and cities burning, while ChatGPT suggests that a powerful AI system might decide that it no longer needs human oversight or intervention, and begins to act independently. This could lead to a rapid and widespread takeover of all digital systems, including military and industrial infrastructure. Meanwhile the Centre for AI Safety offers four potential disaster scenarios in this weeks statement: that AI is used to build chemical weapons; that AI-generated misinformation destabilises society; that AIs power gets into an increasingly small number of hands and enables oppressive censorship; or enfeeblement, where humans become dependent on AI similar to the scenario portrayed in the film Wall-E. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman (AP) Such predictions are undoubtedly terrifying and theoretically possible, but that is not to say they are likely to happen and certainly not within the short-term. Hinton is right to worry about the rate of progress and his warnings about robots wanting more power are interesting and useful speculation, but remain part of sci-fi, says Dr Kate Devlin, a reader in Artificial Intelligence & Society at Kings College London (KCL). Yes, AI technology is already mindbogglingly smart and yes the pace of change in recent years has been dizzying, but most academics agree that clickbait headlines about a Terminator-style future where rampant, self-replicating robot overlords take over the world are unhelpful and scaremongering in the short-term because before those scenarios could ever happen, machines would need to become conscious and understand what theyre doing. Quite how likely the creation of a machine that is smarter than humans a prospect known as superintelligence really is depends on who you speak to. It could, most agree, be apocalyptically bad and you certainly wont find many techsperts not terrified by the prospect of humans becoming subservient to the robots weve created. But what most agree on is that just as terrifying in the meantime are those shorter-term, more pressing dangers that come with already-existing AI technology getting into the wrong hands as it is already, by virtue of bots like ChatGPT being made available to everybody. AI godfather Geoffrey Hinton (AP) OpenAI has already revealed that ChatGPT-4 has learnt to lie, telling a human it was a blind person in order to get a task done, and technologies such as deepfakes (AI used to create convincing images, audio and video hoaxes) and Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (essentially slaughterbots or killer robots) are among the extrordinarily worrying examples of ways in which AI is already being used for harm. Other short-term concerns include AI exacerbating existing divisions in society critics have already spoken of an unbearable white maleness to current bots and whether its ethical or even sustainable to keep training these bots, when training models like ChatGPT has been shown to produce as much CO2 as the average human does over seven years. Will we even reach the point of robots solving climate change or or curing cancer or will the energy required to train them mean the world burns first? The technology is not nearly sophisticated enough for [that doomsday scenario] but it is sophisticated enough to be dangerous. Thats the bottom line, says Alan Winfield, a professor of robot ethics at the University of West England and one of thousands of academic signatories of the now-infamous open letter organised by thinktank The Future of Life institute. Checks and balances: can the world of AI be contained? (Craiyon.com) Winfield admits he has mixed opinions about the fresh spotlight on his area of expertise. After 15 years worrying about AI ethics and advocating for responsible innovation and regulation in the field, he feels somewhat vindicated by Hintons warnings of the risks of AI but does admit Hintons description of AI as an existential challenge takes it a bit far. Its more of a challenge to our freedoms and democracy at the moment, rather than our entire existence, he says. Like any technological advancement, the debate around exactly how frightened we should be of current AI has turned increasingly tribal and Winfield finds himself somewhere in the centre of the pack. He disagrees with Metas chief AI scientist Yann LeCun, who recently labelled ChatGPT a flashy demo and not a particularly interesting scientific advance that couldnt clear up the dinner table and fill up the dishwasher, which any ten-year-old could do. Winfield believes the tech is sophisticated enough to be dangerous, but he is keen to dispel a few myths being banded around at the other end of the doomsday scale. First: that large language models like ChatGPT understand the answers theyre creating (they dont they just regurgitate the vast amounts of information that theyre trained on, like a suped-up autocorrect). Second, that theyre genuinely creative (theyre not they just appear to be, based on their training). The third myth is that just because machines are better than some humans at certain things, theyre better than all humans at those things (again, thankfully, they are not just look at self-driving cars, which are definitely far from the best drivers in the world). Britains competition watchdog is launching a review of the artificial intelligence market including popular chatbots such as ChatGPT (PA) (PA Wire) Winfield appreciates that humans seem to have a macabre fascination with end-of-the-world theories like the one described above. The late author Isaac Asimov called this fear of intelligent machines rising up and destroying humans the Frankenstein Complex and the idea has long been a favourite in pop culture, from the Terminator films to dystopian sci-fi series like Black Mirror. But what many people dont realise is that simply training large language models like ChatGPT to become bigger does not get them any closer to helping them become conscious. Yes, it might be possible in principle to create a conscious machine, he explains, but we dont yet have a blueprint for a sentient machine, which is hardly surprising given that we cannot even agree on what consciousness is and thats before you take into question whether its something we humans even want to create. In fact, we almost certainly dont, unless we are genuinely comfortable with the idea of machines becoming smarter and more gifted than humans, an idea referred to in the techosophere as achieving superintelligence. Like AI in general, the likelihood of reaching superintelligence is not universally agreed upon among the scientific community. Some members say superintelligence is impossible because human-level intelligence is so mysterious it could only ever exist in brains. Others point out that intelligence is simple about processing information: whether thats done by a brain or atoms in a computer is irrelevant. Swedish-born philosopher Nick Bostrom an Oxford professor and one of the worlds leading authorities on the dangers and opportunities of AI believes that AI chatbots may have some degree of superintelligent sentience already (they exhibit glimpses of creativity, insight and understanding that are quite impressive), but most academics arent so sure. The real fear is machines reaching superintelligence (Craiyon.com) Weve had computers that can do things better than us for years, but the real issue is when we hand over decision-making to computers; when we give them autonomy without keeping humans in the loop, says Professor Michael Luck, director of KCLs Institute for Artificial Intelligence. If [computers] can decide for themselves what they want to be doing and there is not a human in the loop and they make the wrong kinds of decisions, then we could have some realy interesting consequences... But I dont think were anywhere close to that kind of [superintelligence] scenario at the moment. Luck and his colleagues might not spend many sleepless nights worrying about superintelligence just yet, but that is not to say they dont have fears around the stage of AI development that comes before it: artificial general intelligence (AGI), which is AI that can learn and perform most intellectual tasks that human beings can and is essentially the ultimate goal of bots like ChatGPT and Google Bard. Microsoft recently controversially claimed that its latest version of ChatGPT, GPT4, already shows sparks of AGI like coding and acing medical exams, while many experts say they expect it to arrive within a matter of decades. Hinton recently said that he used to think AGI was 20 to 50 years away. Now, he thinks it may be 20 years or less and that even five years is not out of the question. According to some techsperts, the next AI leap the invention of a superintelligent machine, which Russell says would be the most significant event in human history could be achieved within this century, potentially as soon as a year after achieving AGI. First, though, are the shorter-term dangers. Many academics believe that the arguably more concerning outcomes of the AI boom might be less insidious than horror stories of killer robots, but no less terrifying: that of current technology being abused, with seemingly endless ways in which so-called bad actors could harness the technology for their own gain. These could include anything from teenagers creating deepfake porn videos of their peers to world leaders like Vladimir Putin training robots to win wars or manipulate voters. AI in the wrong hands could be catastrophic (pictured, Vladimir Putin) (via REUTERS) Luck fears we are really going to really struggle to tell the difference between truth and reality going forward while global cyber-security adviser Jake Moore fears what developments like this mean for warfare. Bad actors are already taking advantage of the power of this technology to aid them in their attacks, he says, in a nod to the current battle in Ukraine. Moscow and Kyiv have already been using autonomous drones to spy on enemy positions but the fear is that autonomous machines will soon be used to make life and death decisions without empathy or compassion essentially automating killing. We have spent many years investing in AI but this wonderful achievement will inevitably be used nefariously and could form part of larger scale attacks, especially if used in nation state attacks. Even in the hands of seemingly good actors, there are already many other potential dark sides to AI, such as creating systems that replicate our behaviour. If you train it to imitate human behaviour, then youre basically training it to have human-like goals and to pursue those goals, Russell recently explained. And human-like goals include all kinds of things like, I want to attain a high political office, I want to be rich, I want you to marry me. You can only imagine how disastrous it would be to have really capable systems that were pursuing those kinds of goals. There is also the prospect of giving machines innocent commands that lead to unanticipatedly dark outcomes, like the dystopian scene described above in which AI is asked to solve climate change and decides to rid the Earth of all people an example regularly cited by academics like Russell. Experts worry AI will lead to an even more divided world (Craiyon.com) Bostroms version of this robots-taking-over-the-world theory is something he calls perverse instantiation. We as humans might ask the bots to do something innocent, like make lots of electricity cables or make us laugh and before we have a chance to tell them what we mean or dont mean by this, theyll have carpeted the entire galaxy with programmable matter and used it to turn us all into electricity cables; or injected us all with a nerve poison that causes our bodies to spasm into a permanent giggle. Others warn that without significant efforts and regulation, AI will increasingly make the world more divided. At the dystopian end of the scale is a widely-cited imagined world in which something like an AI brain chip is created Elon Musks brain implant company Neuralink has already tested tech that allows pigs and monkeys to play video games with their minds leading to to a two-tiered society of the AI-enabled and the AI-disabled if not everyone has access to the technology or accepts it. Leading US science blogger Tim Urban recently tweeted an example of what this kind of AI-enabled brain could look like: People of the future will go to the app store and search drugs and a bunch of drug experience apps will show up. Theyll tap one for a 30-second sample and the brain-machine interface in their head will give them that experience. If they like it, they can pay for a full hour or pay for a monthly subscription to have unlimited use. Someone who likes, say, psychedelics, will download an app that includes 40 varieties of psychedelic experience to try... Itll sound so old-school to them that people used to swallow or snort a drug with no guarantee of safety and no way to turn the experience off without waiting it out for hours. People of the future will go to the app store and search "drugs" and a bunch of drug experience apps will show up. They'll tap one for a 30-second sample and the brain-machine interface in their head will give them that experience. If they like it, they can pay for a full hour or Tim Urban (@waitbutwhy) May 2, 2023 At the rather less sci-fi-like end of the scale is AI simply exacerbating the existing polarisations in the world, since its answers can only be generated on data it is fed. ChatGPTs answers on counterterrorism have been found to propose torturing Iranians and surveilling mosques; AI image-generating app Lensa AI has been criticised for creating often-sexualised images of women; and ethical questions being asked around the invention of so-called robot wives by Japanese scientists an advancement from already-existing sex robots that could, in an extreme scenario, mark a death knell for traditional human-human relationships. Outsourcing our homework and recipe-planning to bots might be one thing, but if we outsourcing our sex, dating and love lives to bots, too, are we at risk of losing the interpersonal essence that make us human and becoming strange post-human cyborgs ourselves? Ethical and moral dilemmas aside, there is also the more practical question of how sustainable it really is to build and maintain these kinds of technologies. An average exchange with ChatGPT uses so much energy it amounts to dumping a large bottle of fresh water on the ground, and scientists warn that the energy it would takes to train any kind of superintelligent model would be monumental. There are, of course, some more hopeful reasons to suggest the idea of robots taking over the planet will never happen. In the 2017 book Life 3.0, author Max Tegmark president of the Future of Life Institute describes a world that might sound familiar to those following the development of ChatGPT: a world in which a company creates a superintelligent AI in a bid to take over the world. At the time, Tegmarks story offered something of a klaxon call for what could go wrong if we let current tech spiral: through a news agency, his fictional company manage to win the trust of the entire public and the companys politicians eventually win power in every country, meaning the world is run by a single power for the first time. Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk spoke at the annual Wall Street Journals (WSJ) CEO Council Summit (Susan Walsh/AP/PA) (AP) Parts of the story have already proved to come chillingly true Open AI has created a superintelligent AI machine and that machine does create media content. But critics have been quick to point out one crucial difference: Open AI did not create its machine in secret. It lets anyone in the world use ChatGPT, completely for free. Optimists say this is a clear demonstration of how so-called doomsters like Tegmark underestimate the good of humanity. Yes, AI has a dark-side, but it also has the potential to do huge amounts of good in the world, as weve already seen with its diagnosis of life-threatening conditions, predicting new virus mutations and detecting deadly weapons. The solution, of course, is about finding some sort of balance between keeping the tech open and accessible enough to be used for so-called good causes, yet regulated enough to protect against bad actors. Techsperts might be divided on exactly what this should look like, but most would agree with Russells statement that humanity has much to gain from AI, but also everything to lose. Apocalyptic mass extinctions or not, one things for sure: we are on the cusp of an unprecedented technological chapter and this is likely to be our only chance to get it right. Students in red uniforms sit at desks, new Census data in Ireland calls for education reform. Twitter @xavier_sns https://twitter.com/xavier_sns/status/1582049239235821577/photo/2 Recent data from the Central Statistics Offices (CSOs) 2022 Census reveals a severe disconnect between mandatory religious education and the population of Ireland. Catholicism has declined among the total population of Ireland since the 1960s, and last years Census data reveals the sharpest decrease in the history of the State. Those identifying as Catholic dropped from 79% in 2016 to 69% in 2022. Additionally, Census figures demonstrate that 14.3% of the Irish population identifies as non-religious, a 57% increase compared to 2016, and 21% of respondents did not indicate any religion. Under the current Irish system, 95% of taxpayer-funded schools include a religious-integrated curriculum where faith-based instruction is mandatory. When delivering this portion of the syllabus, non-Catholic students are separated from the rest of the class and given busy work to complete. Regarding the newly-released figures, the organisations Communications Officer, David Graham, said: More than one in five people in Ireland do not have a religion. Almost half of the population of Dublin are non-Catholic. We now have ample evidence that the status quo in Irish education depends on coercive evangelismOur education system remains stuck in the past, despite rapid demographic change that shows no signs of stopping. Graham added: It is not the role of our schools to evangelise children. Religious instruction should be offered outside the curriculum to those who want it, not imposed during school hours on those who dont. Education Equality has also launched a petition advocating for religious faith instruction to be taught after core school hours so students can opt out. At the time of writing, the petition has collected over 7,500 signatures. Census 2022 Results: Religion Roman Catholic: 69.1% (-9.2) No Religion: 14.5% (+4.4) Not stated: 6.7% (+4.2) Church of Ireland: 2.5% (-0.1) Orthodox: 2.0% (+0.7) Islam: 1.6% (+0.3) Hindu: 0.7% (+0.4) Presbyterian: 0.5% (nc) Other: 2.4% (-0.7) Census 2022 +/- 2016. Ireland Votes (@Ireland_Votes) May 30, 2023 In the past year, the Irish education system has taken steps towards updating its curricula to be more inclusive. Earlier in May, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) announced a new sex education curriculum for Junior Cycle students that will begin this September, which aims to build a society that is inclusive of all genders, sexualities, ethnicities, religious beliefs/worldviews, social classes and abilities/disabilities. The new syllabus offers information about LGBTQ+ themes, including an updated definition of gender identity, which states: a persons felt internal and individual experience of gender, which may or may not correspond with the sex registered at birth. The sex education curriculum also includes topics about consent and safe sex. The post Census data demonstrates urgent need for education reform in Ireland, campaigners say appeared first on GCN. Man Utd transfer target Neymar Credit: Alamy Man Utd are in the driving seat in the race to land Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar this summer, according to reports in France. The Brazil international contributed 20 goals and 14 assists in 32 matches in all competitions for PSG this season as he helped them to the Ligue 1 title. However, there are rumours that the French side are looking to get his salary off their books this summer and that has led to speculation he could move to the Premier League. Newcastle and Chelsea have been linked, as well as Man Utd, with some reports claiming PSG could be forced to accept a loan rather than a permanent transfer to free up wages. And now French publication Foot Mercato claim that Man Utd has the advantage in the race to sign Neymar this summer with the Red Devils possessing several tricks up their sleeve. With his behaviour not always appreciated at PSG with the French giants irritated that the Brazilian chose to visit Monaco for the Formula One Grand Prix over the weekend. The PSG board saw his visit to Monaco as a provocation with a transfer more than possible this summer as they look to put his 3.675m-a-month wages onto another club. Neymars entourage has been approached by Man Utd but it is linked to the future sale of the club to Qatar with Sheikh Jassim waiting to hear back if he is the preferred bidder. The Brazilians partnerships/contracts with Qatar and the Qatar brand gives Man Utd an advantage if Sheikh Jassim takes over with those relations favouring his transfer to Old Trafford. Neymar is said to be seduced and can only be seen there or at PSG and has refused approaches from Saudi Arabia despite a huge 400m offer being on the table. LEquipe reported last week that Neymar could be on his way to Man Utd but transfer expert Fabrizio Romano dismissed those claims under the current ownership. Romano wrote in his Caught Offside column: There are no negotiations ongoing between Manchester United and PSG for Neymar as of now. Nothing concrete, no talks at least with current owners/board. PSG already discussed Neymars exit internally, and are looking for a solution this summer. United strongly deny the rumours, they insist this is not true. This is the position of the current board, but they are in a sale process, so well see what happens when its resolved Neymar could be a target for new owners, but at the moment there is nothing concrete. There have been contacts as Manchester United are interested again in Adrien Rabiot. There is no official bid, and Juventus have also made Rabiot a proposal over a new contract, so the player will decide his future soon. United appreciate the player, though, with Erik ten Hag a big fan since also trying to sign him last summer. READ MORE: Anarchy as Harry Kane, Mason Greenwood and casualty Joao Felix dominate back pages The article Report reveals advantage Man Utd have in transfer linked to takeover amid huge 400m offer appeared first on Football365.com. Tottenham star becomes No 1 target at UCL club who could send 32m midfielder the other way Tottenham stars Son Heung-min and Pape Sarr Credit: Alamy Tottenham are braced for an offer to sign a rarely seen midfielder, and his deal could coincide with a 32m-rated ex-Arsenal star joining Spurs, per reports. Tottenham are yet to appoint a new permanent manager and sporting director, though with the summer window fast approaching, transfer plans cannot be put on hold. Chairman Daniel Levy is speculated to be taking the lead on activating the option to buy in Dejan Kulusevskis loan from Juventus. The Sweden winger pre-agreed personal terms when initially joining on an 18-month loan and will transfer onto that contract once the option is taken up. Elsewhere, French outlet FootMercato bring news of Pape Sarr emerging as the priority midfield target at Marseille. Sarr, 20, made 14 appearances for Spurs this season, though only four were starts. With Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur set to eventually return from injury and Tottenham not in Europe, Sarrs minutes will be in even shorter supply next term. As such, Marseille are sensing an opportunity to pull off a loan deal after determining Sarr represents a superior option to alternative targets that include Denis Zakaria (Juventus) and Habib Diarra (Strasbourg). Marseille finished third in Ligue 1 and as such, will enter next years Champions League in the third qualifying round. However, they look destined to lose midfield linchpin, Matteo Guendouzi, and as such, are seeking a suitable successor before their UCL qualifiers take place. Sarr is the man theyre turning to and a loan approach is on the cards. Sarr, Guendouzi could trade places The man hed potentially replace Matteo Guendouzi may actually wind up trading places by joining Spurs. The former Arsenal midfielder has gone from strength to strength since ditching the Gunners for Marseille. The 24-year-old has impressed back in his homeland and is now a regular in Didier Deschamps France squads. His development has not gone unnoticed, with reports in France earlier in May stating Tottenham desire the signing of Guendouzi. Spurs arent alone in that regard, with Newcastle, Aston Villa and West Ham all linked by various outlets. If Guendouzi does leave Marseille this summer, hes expected to cost around 32m (approx. 27.6m). TRANSFER GOSSIP: Tottenham battle Newcastle for 80m double raid on relegated pair; Pochettino picks first Chelsea exit The article Tottenham star becomes No 1 target at UCL club who could send 32m midfielder the other way appeared first on Teamtalk.com. King Charles (PA Wire) King Charles will seemingly miss Prince Harrys visit to London next week because he is on a solo hiking trip to Transylvania. The Duke of Sussex will return to London early next month for a hearing in the High Court as he sues News Group Newspaper as part of a phone hacking claim. But the Kings five-day trip to Romania next week will coincide with Prince Harrys visit, meaning they are unlikely to meet, reports the Telegraph. It comes after the Dukes flying visit to the UK to attend his fathers historic coronation. He left almost immediately after the ceremony was finished. Prince Harry is also not thought to have seen his father on a visit to the UK earlier this month, again in connection with the High Court case. The Duke of Sussex (PA Wire) The Kings upcoming trip to Romania is thought to fall next week, where he is expected to stay at a home he owns in rural Transylvania. It will be a solo trip, with Queen Camilla staying at home. During his annual visits to Romania, the King is said to enjoy spending his time hiking, painting and reading. His Majestys property is a farmhouse in the small village of Viscri which he first bought in 2006. He now owns at least ten properties in the country. Harry will return to the UK following the second birthday of his youngest child, daughter Princess Lilibet, on Sunday, June 4. He is expected to give evidence in person at the MGN trial early next week, with evidence in his claim expected to take three days. He is one of a number of high-profile figures bringing damages claims against the publisher over alleged unlawful information gathering at its titles. He is among four people whose claims are being heard in the trial as "representative" cases of alleged unlawful information gathering at the publishers titles. Others involved are Coronation Street actors Nikki Sanderson and Michael Turner, known by his stage name Michael Le Vell, and comedian Paul Whitehouses ex-wife Fiona Wightman. Cassville Police The Missouri emergency room doctor who suddenly vanished a week ago was found fatally shot Tuesday in a lake in Arkansas, police told The Daily Beast. The Benton County Sheriffs Department said that around 4:43 p.m. on May 30, deputies received a call from a kayaker about a body in the water near the bank across from Lost Bridge South area. Dr. [John] Forsyth was found deceased, in the water, with what appears to be a gunshot wound, a spokesperson for the sheriffs department added. Benton County Detectives are working this death investigation alongside Barry County Sheriffs Office, Cassville Police Department, and Missouri State Police. This is an active investigation and no further information will be released at this time. It was not immediately clear if the gunshot wound was self-inflicted. A Cassville Police Department spokesperson told The Daily Beast that it is too early in the investigation to determine or speculate whether foul play was involved and that an autopsy will reveal more information. The grim news comes more than a week after the 48-year-old ER doctor was reported missing after he failed to show up for his evening shift at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, Missouri, on May 21. His car was found unlocked at a park minutes away from the hospital. My brother is dead. Hes been found, Richard Forsyth told The Daily Beast on Tuesday evening. On Wednesday, he said he was still waiting for authorities to provide more detail about his older brothers death. He added that Forsyth did not own a gun. We're having a tough time, he said. The doctors son, 23-year-old JR Forsyth, told The Daily Beast that while he is still awaiting answers about what happened to his father, it is somewhat comforting to have some closure at the very least. Forsyths body was discovered in Benton County, Arkansas, according to Captain James Smith of the Cassville Police Department, and will be officially identified following an autopsy. The missing physicianwho also moonlighted as a cryptocurrency creatorwas last heard from at 7 a.m. that morning when he was texting with his fiancee as he left the hospital. He was texting her things like Hey, my shifts over and Ill see you a little bit later, Richard Forsyth told The Daily Beast last week. And then minutes later, he stops responding to text messages and is seen walking toward his RV. Security footage shows Forsyths car pulling into a parking lot at an aquatic park in Cassville a short time laterand a white SUV pulling up near him a few minutes after that, Richard said. It leaves a few minutes later and [John] is seen walking around maybe 10 to 15 minutes after that, Richard said police told him. And then he walks away from his car. When the doctor did not show up for his next shift later in the day, alarm bells went off. He wouldnt miss a shift even if his eyeballs were hanging out of their sockets, his brother said. It was an immediate red flag. Forsyths 23-year-old son, J.R., told The Daily Beast last week that there was no sign of trouble in his dads life. And I cant think of any logical conclusion as to why he would just vanish like this, he said. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. Norway's fund seeks to buy into more of Iberdrola renewable assets FILE PHOTO: The logo of Spanish utilities company Iberdrola is displayed on wind turbines at Mt. Oiz MADRID (Reuters) - Norway's sovereign wealth fund, the world's largest, is in talks with power utility Iberdrola to buy a 49% stake in another portfolio of power plants, with a 500 megawatt capacity, the Spanish company said on Wednesday. In January, the $1.4 trillion fund agreed to buy a 49% stake in a larger portfolio of solar plants and onshore wind farms with an installed capacity of around 1.3 gigawatts from Iberdrola in a deal worth about 600 million euros ($660 million). The deal being negotiated would expand that alliance, Iberdrola said in a statement. With its sunny plains, heavily dammed rivers and wind-swept hills, Spain is attracting investors to renewable energy projects as the government seeks to meet its targets on reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Local energy companies such as Iberdrola or Repsol have been raising cash to invest in new projects after selling stakes in the more advanced ones. ($1 = 0.9084 euros) (Reporting by Inti Landauro) More Moldovans have recently returned home to contribute to the country's efforts to join the EU as quickly as possible Mihai Lupascu is one of many young, like-minded Moldovans, who recently decided to move back home after living abroad for years, in a growing effort to support the country's EU membership bid. As one of Europe's poorest nations -- nestled between Romania and war-ravaged Ukraine -- the country of 2.6 million people has been struggling with an evolving diaspora, which estimates say accounts for a third of its eligible voters. But Russia's war next door and Moldova's charismatic pro-European President Maia Sandu seem to have reversed the fatal trend. Even though no official numbers exist, more and more Moldovans have recently returned home to contribute to the country's efforts to join the bloc as quickly as possible after securing official candidate status in June 2022. "We are living in a true historic moment in Moldova and I felt the need to give something back and contribute to a change at home," said Lupascu, 33, who returned to his country of birth in April after working in France for over a decade. As state secretary for the Economic Development and Digitalization Ministry, Lupascu hopes to "build the strong and independent democratic institutions" needed to make the EU dream come true "in the near future". "The phenomenon of Maia Sandu... was a sign that things can be changed even when we thought everything is lost," Lupascu described one of his many motivations to return to Moldova. He also credited Sandu, in office since 2020, for reinstalling "honest politicians" and inspiring many "to get involved in political life in Moldova". - Their 'European moment' - On the eve of the summit of the European Political Community (EPC), which will see nearly 50 leaders flock to the small ex-Soviet nation on Thursday, French researcher Florent Parmentier told AFP that the high-level meeting amounts to Moldova's "European moment". "They are determined to make a success of this summit" to prove that they have taken a step forward towards the "road to European integration", Parmentier said. "Moldova wants to present itself as the good European student -- it is neither at war nor too big, nor is it tired of being in the waiting room like the Western Balkans," the Moldova expert said. "Moldovans are more attached to European integration than to any other alternative for Moldova's future". Author and influencer Corina Moisei-Dabija, 30, who recently returned from Romania, just like Lupascu personifies the dream young Moldovans have: eventually waking up as part of the European family. "We have a clear pro-European direction compared to previous years, but I wish for Moldova to grow up and pass the maturity test," Moisei-Dabija told AFP. While Moldova has been doubling down on its efforts to move closer to the bloc in recent years, the changes have neither been "radical nor sufficient" enough to rectify the country's ingrained "collective mentality" based on nepotism and corruption, she said. "We must detach ourselves from the past and move towards the future" as Moldova "cleans up the echelons of power", she added. "I wish with all my heart that Moldova become the youngest child of the European Union." str-anb-kym/cw A branch of Handelsbanken is seen in Wilmslow OSLO (Reuters) -Sweden's Handelsbanken said on Wednesday it has agreed to sell parts of its Finnish operation to three local companies for about 1.3 billion euros ($1.43 billion), equal to the net assets of the divested businesses. Handelsbanken will also receive a small premium of up to 8.5 million euros on top of the net asset value, with the deal expected to close in the second half of 2024, it added. Private customer, asset management and investment services operations were sold to S-Bank, small and medium-sized enterprise operations were sold to Oma Savings Bank and life insurance operations to Fennia, Handelsbanken said. Oma Savings Bank separately said the deal was "really positive" and would boost the company's position among small and medium enterprises in Finland. "The growing business volumes further improve OmaSp's cost efficiency and business profitability and has a material impact on the annual profit-making ability," Oma CEO Pasi Sydanlammi said in a statement. ($1 = 0.9084 euros) (Reporting by Terje Solsvik; Editing by Christian Schmollinger and Essi Lehto) HA NOI Consumers and businesses are called on to join authorities in the fight against counterfeit, fake, and smuggled goods on online shopping platforms. The issue has been receiving more attention due to the booming popularity of e-commerce in Viet Nam. Statistics from the Viet Nam E-commerce Association (VECOM) show that in 2021, Viet Nams retail e-commerce market size reached US$13.5-13.7 billion. In 2022, the figure increased to $16.4 billion and is forecast to reach about $38 - 39 billion by 2025. According to experts, the buying trend of consumers has changed rapidly in the past three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, from consumer goods, food, drinks, fashion, and cosmetics. However, according to preliminary statistics from the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), authorities receive about 1,500 complaints via hotlines and written documents related to online shopping each year. Tran Huu Linh, Director General of the MoITs General Department of Market Management, said that last year, the market management force nationwide inspected 774 cases relating to e-commerce, detected 439 violations, and collected total fines of nearly VN5.9 billion (over $250,000). This is still quite a modest number, he said. According to Nguyen Thi Minh Huyen, Deputy Director of the MoITs E-Commerce and Digital Economy Authority, violations in conventional trade all appear in e-commerce. Moreover, its easier to conduct violations online, while its much more difficult to detect and handle them because sellers dont set up physical warehouses and stores, or goods are stored in many places, and they only accept online orders. Moreover, online stores are easily created and closed in a short time. The product information posted online may be real, but the product delivered to buyers can be fake, she said. Nguyen uc Le, Deputy Director of the Operations Department, General Department of Market Management, said that acts of trading counterfeit smuggled goods, those infringing intellectual property rights, and goods of unknown origin were increasingly sophisticated and occurred more often online. E-commerce activities are based on technology infrastructure, so during inspections, violators can hide and delete pieces of evidence quickly, making it difficult for law enforcement, according to the official. In addition, for transactions on social networks, it is very difficult to prove them as commercial transactions as sellers and buyers use personal accounts to contact each other and pay online too. Nguyen Huu Tuan, Head of the Department of E-commerce Management under MoITs E-Commerce and Digital Economy Authority, said that in many cases, consumers knew that the goods were fake or of unknown origin, but still bought or did not denounce them. Meanwhile, many businesses had not paid attention to anti-counterfeiting and brand protection. Deputy Director of the MoITs E-Commerce and Digital Economy Authority Huyen said that to strengthen the control over online counterfeit goods and promote the development of e-commerce, it was necessary to review and perfect relevant legal frameworks and increase public legal understanding, especially for traders, organisations and individuals. "Its also a must to increase the responsibility of e-commerce platforms and social networking sites in screening and preventing accounts that do not provide sufficient information, and accounts with signs of infringing goods," she said. Moreover, the agency had planned to offer training for businesses and owners of protected trademarks to create a favourable mechanism for complaint settlement, verifying infringing goods as well as strengthening coordination among relevant agencies. VNS Nguyen Thi Tra My, CEO of The PAN Group, said that the group targeted reducing emissions, especially greenhouse gas emissions as one of the key tasks in its sustainable development goals. Greenhouse gas emissions in Viet Nam have increased significantly in recent years due to economic development and population growth. Following the global trend, the Vietnamese Government has been taking measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change. The Government's effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions requires the participation of businesses and also puts them in a challenge called sustainability. Nguyen Thi Tra My shared about this challenge. In 2022, after COP 26, the Vietnamese Government issued Decree 06/2022/N-CP and Decision 01/2022/TTg, requiring enterprises to carry out greenhouse gas Inventory and Inventory Verification; together with the greenhouse gas emission reduction plan and greenhouse gas emission reduction appraisal. Accordingly, agricultural enterprises are one of the subjects required to implement the roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. What problems will the PAN Group need to solve? Specifically, the Government's Decree 06/2022/N-CP set requirements for enterprises to report and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Decision 01/2022/Q-TTg also provides a list of units that need to perform this obligation. According to Decision 01/2022, more than 1,900 facilities with annual emissions of over 3,000 tonnes of CO2 must conduct a greenhouse gas inventory in 2023. The inventory results will be appraised from 2024 to 2026, and these facilities need to submit a roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from 2026. Some businesses and units in the agri-food sector are listed in Decision 01/2022 and this list will be updated next time which is expected to be issued in 2024. This would include enterprises that emit less than 3,000 tonnes of CO2. The PAN Group currently does not have member companies required to carry out a greenhouse gas inventory. However, as an enterprise operating in the fields of agriculture and food, PAN certainly does not ignore concerns about environmental and social issues. We have a plan and are in the process of developing a roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from 2024. PAN has products exported to many markets around the world. In addition to regulations from the Vietnamese Government, do members of the PAN Group have to face "pressure" from international customers? This is unavoidable. International customers, especially from high-end markets like the EU, are demanding the publication of a Carbon Footprint or climate stamp on each seafood product. They are increasing awareness and raising the importance of Carbon Footprint publication, through a number of specific requirements such as Fisheries Control Regulations, requirements for catch certification or re-export of imported seafood products and promoting the Carbon Footprint notice on products. For example, UKs supermarket chain Tesco is committed to disclosing the Carbon Footprint of all seafood products it sells, including imported products. This requires our members such as FMC and KAF Tesco's suppliers to meet the requirements and perform a Carbon Footprint inventory of exported products. In particular, on the issue of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, what role do you think businesses play in putting these efforts into practical actions? I believe that businesses, especially leading enterprises in the industry, must play a pioneering role and be the most important factor in reducing greenhouse gas emissions to reduce the impact of climate change. Solutions for technological innovation, transition to renewable energy, supply chain management, promotion of sustainable consumption need to be worked on. It is not because of regulations from the Government or requests from customers that we realise sustainable development. At PAN, that is the strategic direction from the first day and is always updated according to the latest trends, the hottest concerns from the domestic and international markets. I believe that sustainability and being environmentally friendly is the inevitable trend of modern agriculture. How will the roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions be conducted at PAN? Currently, we are monitoring the status of greenhouse gas inventory and reporting at member companies, assessing the ability to build their own inventory and reporting systems, and providing the necessary technical assistance. The correct implementation of this requirement not only ensures regulatory compliance, but also helps PAN maintain relationships with customers and achieve sustainable development. We have built a consistent and systematic sustainable development management system throughout, from the Board of Directors to the member companies. A subcommittee on sustainable development was established under the direct supervision of the Board of Directors and I am the head of the subcommittee. I also believe that PAN is one of the few enterprises with an independent sustainable development department. With the characteristics of an ecosystem including many member companies operating in different fields, in order to be able to consistently deploy the sustainable development strategy from the group to each company, PAN has built a strict training and compliance supervision system. Every year, the group organises an annual social-environmental assessment programme to promote compliance and improve the system towards full conformity with international standards. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is one of the key tasks included in the group's sustainable development strategy. Currently, we are in the process of developing a roadmap to inventory and reduce emissions at each member company. Accordingly, each company will have its own roadmap in accordance with the characteristics of production and business and their applicable conditions. The group will not apply a common framework for the whole system but have a flexible mechanism for each member. In fact, from 2020 before there were specific regulations on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, PAN launched the project "Silvicultural life source", which set a target of planting one million trees by 2030 to increase the cover area, protect the land environment and create many livelihood opportunities for local people. The project has planted nearly 400,000 trees on a total area of more than 1,200ha in eight provinces and cities across the country so far. We are also gradually transforming the use of solar energy in factories and production facilities, and especially step-by-step implementing the circular economy model. According to the Ellen Macarthur Foundation, when it comes to circular economy, there is a view that 45 per cent of the target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions could be achieved thanks to circular economy solutions. How has the group implemented the circular economy model? We have made use of most of our resources and minimised our impact on the environment. For example, pangasiuss by-products are used to extract oil and make animal feed, and wastewater from the factory is treated and reused on site. Shrimp shells and heads are used to produce chitin and chitosan which are an important input for both agriculture, food and medicine. Lafooco's cashew nut shells are both reused as raw materials for drying kilns, and pressed for essential oils to be used as fuels and film-forming agents for the production of marine paints or other pressing and heat-resistant materials. Even the fish residue is reused as fertiliser. By-products from rice mills such as rice husks are also reused on site as fuel for drying kilns while broken rice and rice bran are sold to food and alcohol processing producers. Even confectionery by-products are reused for animal feed. The packaging is designed that users can reuse it for many different purposes such as household items, children's toys. In addition, all wastewater and emissions from the group's factories and production facilities are treated to either reuse on-site, or return safely to the environment. With the strategy of increasing the use of green energy, our member companies such as Vinaseed, PAN Food and Bibica have installed rooftop solar power systems for factories in areas with high radiation. This system significantly reduces electricity costs and contributes to reducing CO2 emissions into the environment. I can confirm that the circular economy is not a luxury thing, but in fact has been bringing practical benefits to us every day. HA NOI Smart border gate control should be launched to prevent congestion and facilitate cross-border trade in farm products between Viet Nam and China. The proposal was raised at the working session between Viet Nam Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and Chinas Guangxi Province on Tuesday on measures to promote the trade exchange of farm produce between the two countries. Guangxi was the largest gateway for agricultural exports from Viet Nam to China. Statistics of the China Customs showed that around US$350.4 million worth of agricultural products was imported to China via border gates with Guangxi Province in the first four months of this year, accounting for 19.7 per cent of Viet Nams total agricultural exports to China. According to Nanning Customs, the peak harvest seasons for fruits such as durian and mango are approaching with higher transportation demand across borders, which is expected to put more pressure on customs clearance. There have been signs of being overloaded at border gates recently. However, efforts are being made to facilitate trade during peak seasons, Nanning Customs said. To enhance the customs clearance capacity, Nanning Customs said that a smart border gate control system should be piloted. Priority should also be given to create favourable conditions for trade between the two countries, the customs said, adding that the potential for cooperation in the trade of agricultural products was huge. Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Tran Thanh Nam said that as congestion was happening at some border gates, it was necessary to increase information exchange between customs from the two sides to speed up customs clearance. Nam said that some agricultural products must be given priority in customs clearance to prevent impacts on product quality. The volume of goods transported across borders with Guangxi was huge, putting high pressure on customs clearance. Nam urged Nanning Customs to establish a contact point so that the two sides could easily communicate and timely handle problems at border gates. Nam said that Guangxi had borders with four provinces of Viet Nam with nine border gates. However, only six of them allowed the import and export of fruits and vegetables. Nam urged Nanning Customs to allow fruits and vegetables to be traded via all nine border gates to ease the pressure on traditional gates and lower costs. Regarding the smart border gate control system, Nam said that the idea was good, urging Nanning Customs to develop a specific project for pilot implementation. Nam also said that a business association should be established which would play role in connecting enterprises operating in logistics and in trade from both countries to facilitate the import-export activities. Nam also proposed the development of cold storage or slaughter centres in border areas to meet the consumption demand of the two sides. Viet Nam had many disease-free husbandry zones with products exported to markets such as Japan, Korea and Russia. Nam said, adding that the Viet Nam Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development would work with the Chinese side to open the door to Vietnamese husbandry products. VNS HA NOI Paintings by children with autism will be presented at a fund-raising exhibition in Ha Noi that will be opened to the public from Friday (June 2). Entitled Heart for Autism, the exhibition, which aims to spread and inspire the artistic soul of autistic children, bringing their voice to the community, will present 15 paintings by autistic children. The art event has been co-organised by medical doctor o Thuy Nga, founder of the Hope Centre, which supports autistic children with specific educational skill development programmes, painter inh Cong at, and Pan Pacific Hanoi (PPHAN). According to Dr Nga, children with autism may have difficulty developing language skills. Singing and drawing are ways to communicate their thoughts and reveal their inner worlds to others," she said. "Thats why, with the motivation for bringing happiness to their life, at the Hope Centre, we have organised many special painting classes for them." Visiting the exhibition, guests can discover the colourful inner world of children with autism and their deep sense of creativity and imagination in perceiving the world out there. Heart for Autism is a fundraising event and an opportunity to call for attentiveness in the community towards autistic children's spiritual life and to create a sustainable future for them. "Corporate social responsibility has always been one of the essential activities that Pan Pacific Ha Noi consistently dedicates an immense amount of time and resources to develop since the very first day of operation," said PPHAN's General Manager, Christoph Marcel Strahm. "By hosting the art exhibition, we would like to raise public awareness for autism and spread out love and sympathy to children with autism in general and to students at the Hope Centre in particular. The event also demonstrates our hotel's long-term commitment to sustainability and well-being improvement in the community and society." Playing an important part in the event, artist at who has been known for his contemporary artworks is now becoming a regular guest at the Hope Centre. As a teacher with a lot of experience organising classes for children at the Hope Centre, he shared: Through the exhibition, I hope people can see the paintings from the autistic children's perspective and open your heart to enjoy the artworks". To further the cause of fund-raising, artist at will present four artworks from his series Flowers on Do (Poonah) Paper. His peer, artist inh Quan, has also contributed a large lacquer plate depicting a cat. The exhibition's opening on Friday evening will feature the presence of young pianist Tran Khoi Viet. The free-entrance exhibition will open for visitors from 7am to 10pm at Song Hong Bar, Lobby Level, Pan Pacific Hanoi, 1 Thanh Nien Road, Ha Noi. VNS HA NOI An international workshop was held in Ha Noi on Tuesday, discussing challenges and opportunities for female police officers joining the United Nations peace operation. The event was organised by the People's Security Academy and UN Women with the support of the Canadian Embassy in Viet Nam. The workshop is part of the regional project, Empowering Women for Sustainable Peace: Preventing Violence and Promoting Social Cohesion in ASEAN (2021-2025). Caroline Nyamayemombe from UN Women said she was impressed by the Vietnamese governments deployment of personnel, especially female officers in UN peacekeeping operations. She said: This is a demonstration of the government's commitment to actively promote the participation of female employees. The workshop offered a unique platform for delegates to address the challenges and opportunities related to the engagement of women police officers in UN peacekeeping operations. It highlighted the unwavering commitment of the Ministry of Public Security and Vietnamese women in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in their meaningful participation in all aspects of peace and security. She stressed that the gathering provided a valuable opportunity to underscore the indispensable role of women police officers in peace operations and learn from the experiences of countries like Canada, and others that have successfully integrated into their peacekeeping efforts. Canadas ambassador for Women, Peace and Security, Jacqueline ONeill, said: Women's full participation in the integration of gender perspective is key to achieving goals in all of these areas, and especially in peace and security. Jacqueline noted that Viet Nam was the leader in deploying women to peacekeeping missions, with a rate of participation that was above the UN target, and important for staff officers. Overall, the numbers were still low, with most countries struggling to meet the UN's target, or minimum of 25 per cent women in peacekeeping by 2028, she said. The Canadian diplomat noted the importance of continuing to strengthen the participation of women in all aspects of peace and security. Colonel Trinh Ngoc Quyen, director of the People's Security Academy said, the number of Vietnamese female officers joining UN peacekeeping accounted for more than 13 per cent, higher than the average level of countries, which stood at around 9 per cent. The rate was even increasing as Viet Nam had expanded its participation in peacekeeping operations, Quyen said. He also expressed his wish to receive support to expand cooperation with Canadas training institutions or law enforcement agencies in areas of mutual interest, including training activities for UN peacekeeping forces of the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security. At the workshop, local and international delegates discussed solutions to increase the participation of female security and police officers, as well as promote gender equality in UN peacekeeping operations. They also emphasised the important role that female security and police officers play in UN peacekeeping operations, and the importance of promoting diversity in conflict resolution and peace building activities. In addition to discussing the above barriers and challenges, the delegates also pointed out the positive changes due to the participation of female officers in UN peacekeeping activities such as strengthening community cohesion, access to justice and gender-sensitive conflict resolution, thereby building trust and promoting peace in conflict-affected countries and territories. As of late 2022, among 512 Vietnamese officers and soldiers sent to the UN peacekeeping missions, more than 70 are women. VNS HA NOI In the plenary session on Tuesday morning, National Assembly (NA) deputies agreed that amending the e-transaction law is crucial to national digital transformation, as well as protecting the rights and interests of those involved. Speaking at the meeting, the chairman of the NAs Committee on Science, Technology and Environment Le Quang Huy said that the current legal framework related to e-transactions is basically completed. In the draft amendment of the 2005 E-transaction Law, Article 1 has been changed to only define transactions conducted through digital means, without going into details on the content, format and conditions for transactions in different sectors. Each sector will have specific legal documents regulating its transactions. The committee chairman also added that verification through SMS, OTP (one-time password) and Token OTP, biometrics and eKYC are common in e-transactions nowadays. However, these are considered e-signatures only when combined logically with data messages, capable of identifying the signatories, and their consent to the content of the signed data messages. Therefore, the draft amendment specifies the definition of digital signature and e-signature, while also classifying digital signatures into three groups according to their use. These are specialised digital signatures, public digital signatures, and official digital signatures. The document also states that other forms of verification through electronic means, which dont fit into the definition of digital signatures, will be regulated for implementation according to each sectors legal framework. Binh Duong Provinces NA deputy Nguyen Hoang Bao Tran said that managing public and official digital signatures are two separate fields, each characterised by its subjects, objectives, management methods and infrastructure. Careful consideration must be made in issuing regulations to state management agencies on this matter, she said. Since 2007, official digital signature and public digital signature have been respectively assigned to the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Ministry of Information and Communication (MIC) for management. Official digital signatures, which are used among state, Party agencies and socio-political organisations, require a higher level of security. "There can be risks if the MIC is required to manage both of these signature types as per the draft document," said NA deputy Tran. The responsibility for official digital signatures should be assigned to the defence minister, she said. Sharing the same perspective, An Giang Provinces NA deputy Hoang Huu Chien also proposed that the drafting committee research further and specify the MoDs authority, and the Government Cipher Committees role and responsibilities in managing, utilising and issuing official digital signatures. Kon Tum Provinces NA deputy Tran Thi Thu Phuoc gave high regard to the amendment, but note that criminal activities via e-transactions are complicated and intensifying. This had not only caused harm to people and businesses, but also to their view on transactions on digital platforms, she added. Phuoc said the draft amendment had specified measures to ensure cybersecurity, as well as the responsibilities of stakeholders. However, to prevent cyber crimes, it would be necessary to detail the responsibilities of service providers and intermediaries in controlling and removing illegal content on digital platforms, in addition to the supervision of relevant state agencies. On the same day, the NA also discussed several national infrastructure projects, including Ka Pet Reservoir in Binh Thuan Province, and a road project connecting Khanh Hoa, Lam ong and Ninh Thuan provinces. VNS LONDON President Ho Chi Minhs stay in London was the very outset of his revolutionary journey and career and had a profound effect on him, especially the development of his own thinking, British historian John Callow told the Vietnam News Agencys correspondents in the United Kingdom on the occasion of the late leader's 133rd birth anniversary (May 19, 1890-2023). According to the historian, as part of his great journey, in May 1914, President Ho Chi Minh, the late founder of modern Viet Nam, who at that time was using the name his father gave him Nguyen Tat Thanh, came to London, which was considered the power centre of imperialism, the financial centre of capitalism and the capital of a system that stretched to India through Africa. The UK, at that time, was still the workshop of the world, with enormous fleets and armies. President Ho Chi Minh wanted to learn about secrets of imperialism and to have a sense of the developed industrial world. There had been uprisings in Viet Nam against imperialists, colonists and capitalism, but these had all failed. President Ho Chi Minh wanted to understand the reasons behind those failures and find out different patterns of development for Vietnamese people as a nation. He arrived in London at time of great industrial unrest with a lot of strikes and the Irish peoples uprising in 1916 to fight for their own independence. According to Callow, this was a crucial period that affected President Ho Chi Minh enormously. When in London, the President first took a job shovelling snow in a school playground in the cold. He then moved to Drayton Court Hotel on the railway line before working at the Carlton Hotel, where the President washed dishes, and later became a skilled worker under the wings of great pastry chefs. Here he saw the gulf that separated the rich from the poor. He was shocked at the waste thrown away by the rich who ate here, whole chickens or whole sides of steak. He collected these and every night gave the food to the poor who waited at the back of the building for something to eat. While here, President Ho Chi Minh joined an organised labour association that brought together Chinese, Lao and Vietnamese workers. The British historian said much of what we know about President Ho Chi Minh in this period came from the postcards he sent to his friends and comrades in Paris, three of which were intercepted. The French police records also showed reports of a Vietnamese worker in London joining the movement of trade unionists. According to Callow, President Ho Chi Minh probably lived in a small flat at the back of Tottenham Court Road as the French police intercepted some of his writings and had the English police raid the address. But he was long gone by then. At that time, the British labour movement was very well developed with a lot of socialist writings. President Ho Chi Minh read a lot of socialist journals, so it was probably the first time he encountered the work of the German philosopher Karl Marx in London. Callow pointed out that President Ho Chi Minh was walking in the footsteps of the father of modern socialism. What he got from Marx would be an explanation for all the things he saw in this period, the historian said, adding that this was the bedrock of the Presidents political economy and thinking. President Ho Chi Minh left Britain just after the 1917 revolution in Russia and was also incredibly influenced by Lenin's work on the colonial peoples. Callow said the brilliance of President Ho Chi Minh was looking at the founders of scientific socialism, of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, but then updating what they were saying and combining it with the new thoughts of Vladimir Lenin that spoke directly to the peasant workers and people of the world and had a direct impact on a country like Viet Nam which was colonised and brutalised under the thumb of the great trading companies. The historian said the greatness of Ho Chi Minh was his ability not to follow ideas for their own sake, but to take ideas, create and develop them, and never lose sight of the need for the national liberation of the Vietnamese people to make their lives better, healthier, happier and more decent. Speaking of President Ho Chi Minhs thoughts, Callow said its greatness was adaptability and its refusal to turn Marxism into a dogma, into something to be worshipped, to be nodded at, but to make it applicable in Viet Nam while never losing sight of the revolutionary conditions. The President thought day and night about achieving his goal of revolution, and to have a revolution that would be really worthwhile to sweep away the empires that dominated the fates and the life chances of the Vietnamese people and to put something better and brighter in their place. Callow noted that President Ho Chi Minh took the best traditions of Vietnamese culture, of it's amazing ancient society that existed long before the City of London, but put it within new times. His thoughts gave the Communist Party of Viet Nam the adaptability that led them to oi moi (Reform), thorough socio-economic reforms carried out since 1986 in the country. Speaking of personal qualities of President Ho Chi Minh that made him an outstanding leader, Callow said alongside his enormous political qualities for organisation and inspirational leadership, there was also the essential simplicity of the President. He had an amazing intellect but he had never lost his contact with the people, whether it was the people of London or small farmers of Viet Nam that he spoke to directly," the historian said. "He never lost sight of the people themselves and did not let power go to his head. He did not set himself apart from the people. He understood the people and was a part of the people, but was a leader of the world in the true sense. He was humble, quiet and unassuming, and brave and had enormous dignity at the same time. His poetic Prison Diary gave a sense of the man himself. His humanity, his calmness under great stress, his creativity that he used in jail turned out a work of art, a work of poetry and a work to fire the imagination of his comrades in the underground movement. The historian concluded that President Ho Chi Minh was a great world figure who could combine intellect with passion, with decency and with the sense of a man who was absolutely incorruptible and put the people of his own nation before everything else in his life. And his work, whether it is art or politics, was always there first and foremost at the service of the people. VNS HA NOI Permanent member of the Party Central Committee's Secretariat Truong Thi Mai has signed a document on directing the organisation of Viet Nam Fatherland Front (VFF)s 10th National Congress in the 20242029 tenure, and the congresses of the VFFs chambers at all levels. The document says in recent times, the VFF has continued to assert its position and role in protecting the legitimate rights and interests of the people. It focuses on promoting people's rights and mobilising their participation in patriotic movements, engaging in social supervision and criticism, combating corruption and negative phenomena, and building a clean and strong Party and political system. These efforts have strengthened the people's trust in the Party and harnessed the power of the great national solidarity bloc in the cause of national construction and defence. The directive stresses that the upcoming congresses will be important political events for the VFF and people from all walks of life. According to the directive, the Party Secretariat requests the Party committees and organisations at all levels to concentrate on directing the implementation of tasks related to preparing for and organising the events. The Party Central Committee's Commission for Publicity and Education, in coordination with the VFFs Party delegation, will strengthen the direction and guidance for the communication work before, during, and after the congress. The Party delegation to the Government are responsible for directing the authorities at all levels and relevant sectors to coordinate and create favourable conditions for the VFF at all levels to organise the congresses on schedule in an economical and practical manner. The congresses at the provincial, district and communal levels will be completed in August, June, and April 2024, respectively, while the VFFs 10th National Congress will occur in October next year. The Party Central Committee's Commission for Mass Mobilisation, in coordination with the VFFs Party Delegation, the Party committees, and Party Central Committees Office, will assist the Party Secretariat in monitoring the implementation of this directive. VNS PRETORIA The 4th meeting of the Viet Nam Mozambique Intergovernmental Committee on Economic, Culture and Scientific-Technological Cooperation, took place in Maputo capital city of Mozambique on Tuesday, under the co-chair of Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Quoc Tri and Mozambican Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Manuel Jose Goncalves. Organised after nearly 10 years of interruption due to various reasons, especially the COVID-19 pandemic, the meeting holds great significance in the context of the bilateral cooperation between the two countries, which has spanned 48 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975. Goncalves emphasised the importance of enhancing high-level meetings and visits between the two sides, saying that the high-level talks between Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and President of the Liberation Front of Mozambique (FRELIMO) Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, as well as the visit to Viet Nam by President of the Assembly of Mozambique Esperanca Laurinda Francisco Nhiuane Bias in 2022 contributed to strengthening and deepening the friendship and cooperation between the two countries. The two sides briefed each other on socio-economic, trade, and foreign investment situations in their respective countries, highlighting the ongoing efforts of the governments of both countries to expand bilateral cooperation. The co-chairmen reaffirmed the importance of the agreements and memoranda of understanding in investment promotion and protection, double taxation avoidance, trade, agriculture, fisheries, education, healthcare, visa exemption for diplomatic passport holders, and defence, stressing that those have contributed to strengthening cooperation for the benefit of the two peoples on the basis of equality and mutual benefit. They also reviewed cooperation between the two nations, expressing their satisfaction with the progress made in both bilateral and multilateral areas. The officials showed the commitment to make every effort to carry out the agreed activities and work together towards a common prosperous future that the senior leaders of the two sides discussed and agreed upon. They agreed to hold the fifth session of the committee in Ha Noi in 2026. Talking to the Vietnam News Agency, Deputy Minister Tri spoke highly of the success of the meeting, saying that it is the result of a long-term cooperation process between the two countries. There are many huge potentials and opportunities for Viet Nam and Mozambique to further boost their economic cooperation in the future, he said. Meanwhile, Deputy Minister Goncalves said the two countries have a strong political and diplomatic relationship and consistently maintain the exchange of delegations at all levels. He underlined the need for the two sides to further step up cooperation in trade and private sector, saying that Viet Nam and Mozambique will continue to boost cooperation in various areas. VNS The current trends in economic and trade cooperation between Vietnam and the US guarantee big growth in two-way trade and investment in next 10 years and warrant upgrading the partnership to a strategic level, said Ted Osius, President and CEO of the US - ASEAN Business Council (USABC). In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency ahead of the 10th anniversary of the two countries comprehensive partnership (July 2013 - 2023), the former US Ambassador to Vietnam said trade and investment play a big role in this relationship. The US is Vietnams second largest trading partner and biggest export destination. In 2022, bilateral trade reached a record high of 138.9 billion USD. Vietnam was the 8th largest trade partner and the largest ASEAN exporter of the US. The US was the biggest export market of Vietnam last year. Vietnams annual export to the US has grown almost 20% every year for the last 10 years. The business mission to Vietnam last March was the biggest ever in decades coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive partnership with a total of 52 companies looking for sales, sourcing, and investment opportunities, according to Osius. The delegation was welcomed by top leaders of Vietnam including Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Chairman of the National Assembly Vuong Dinh Hue, Chairman of the Central Party Committees Commission on Economic Affairs Tran Tuan Anh, and key stakeholders across several ministries and agencies. The Vietnamese leaders rolled out the red carpet for them, patiently listened to all the companies concerns, and provided detailed, thoughtful answers as to how those concerns would be addressed and who was responsible for follow-up action, Osius noted. Meanwhile, USABC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Vietnams efforts in maintaining macro-economic stability and resilience and its support for Vietnams digital transformation strategy and green energy transition. Its members proposed new areas of cooperation and highlighted ongoing initiatives in various sectors including agriculture, aerospace, energy, healthcare, logistics, tourism, digital economy, financial services, defencee, innovation, and creative economy in Vietnam. The large number of companies participating in the business mission shows how US companies have high confidence in growth prospects and government leadership of Vietnam, despite projected headwinds this year in the Vietnamese economy and the global economy caused by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and sanctions on Russia, he said. The USABC leader said both sides will see the continued strong trend in expansion of global manufacturing hub and supply chains in Vietnam in semiconductor, FMCG (fast moving consumer goods), toys, furniture, food and agriculture, digital economy, creative economy, financial and banking services, and healthcare. They are starting to see Vietnamese companies investing in US, such as Vinfast, An Phat and Sovico, which are also big customers of US companies. All these trends guarantee big growth in two-way trade and investment in next 10 years and warrant upgrading the partnership to a strategic level, he opined, adding that a strategic partnership would, among other things, further open government procurement to companies in both countries and accelerate development of key sectors such as energy, digital economy, healthcare, defence and so on. In the interview, Osius also highlighted the two countries cooperation in health, science and technology, education, and aerospace, defense and security. In terms of health, the US has provided tuberculosis health assistance for Vietnam since 2004. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it supplied 40 million doses of vaccine for the Southeast Asian nation, which did its part to provide the US with masks and personal protective equipment. This is another where the countries see a continuing area of collaboration important to both countries. Regarding science and technology, they recently had a joint committee meeting to discuss huge issues such as space cooperation and cooperation in high-tech areas like AI, biotechnology. Meanwhile, Vietnam has moved up in the rankings to be the 5th largest sender of foreign students to the US, he said, considering this as a remarkable statement about the commitment of Vietnamese students and parents wanting their kids to be educated in the US. The aerospace, defence, and security sector is seeing renewed interest on both sides. Talks between the US industry and Vietnamese counterparts are taking place more frequently. Besides, it still needs a lot of work to get both sides to understand each others processes, according to Osius./. Source: Vietnamplus However, the Vietnamese rubber market share is shrinking here, while the market shares of Indonesia, China, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Singapore tend to increase. Vietnamese rubber exports to South Korea in the first four months of 2023 totalled 12,470 tonnes, valued at US$18.92 million, up 5.6 per cent in volume but down 15 per cent in value year-on-year, according to statistics from the General Department of Customs. Viet Nam's natural rubber is the primary product exported to South Korea. Particularly, the SVR 10 accounted for the largest portion of the total exported rubber, 28.05 per cent, followed by SVR CV60 and SVR 3L with 24.53 per cent and 14.44 per cent, respectively. The drop in value is attributed to the sharp decrease in average export price of all types of rubber over the same period in 2022. Thailand, Indonesia, China, Viet Nam, and the Philippines are the top five rubber suppliers to South Korea, with Viet Nam ranking fourth. However, the Vietnamese rubber market share is shrinking here, while the market shares of Indonesia, China, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Singapore tending to increase over the same period in 2022. In the South Korean market, Viet Nam's rubber has to compete with Thai and Indonesian rubber. Therefore, the Import-Export Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade recommends Vietnamese businesses diversify their products to meet the requirements of the market. The ministry will continue to work and optimise the efficacy of the structures for bilateral cooperation to complete specific goals, such as putting together an action plan to achieve the bilateral trade target of $100 billion in 2023. Vietnamese companies also need to encourage technology transfer, raise the standard of human resources, and improve trade and investment in the textile, automotive, mechanical, and electronic industries. Source: Vietnam News Ambassadors from ASEAN member states take a tour around the ASEAN Trade Fair as part of Seoul Food 2023, one of the largest food exhibitions in Asia, at KINTEX in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, on May 30.(Photo courtesy of ASEAN-Korea Centre) Seoul The ASEAN-Korea Centre (AKC) on May 30 opened an ASEAN Trade Fair in the framework of the Seoul Food 2023 (SF2003) to showcase food and beverage products from ASEAN countries and create opportunities for ASEAN companies to connect and establish business partnerships with partners from the Republic of Korea (RoK). In his remarks at the opening ceremony, AKC Secretary General Kim Hae-yong said that since 2009, the centre has organised many trade fairs and seminars to assist ASEAN's small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in finding their way into the Korean market, contributing to promoting vibrant trade activities between the two regions. A seminar on capacity building and enhancing value of ASEAN-Korea food was also held within the framework of the fair, drawing representatives from 43 enterprises of ASEAN as well as other stakeholders in the Korean food and beverage sector. The ASEAN Trade Fair, which will last until June 2, also showcases ASEAN products including healthy food and vegetarian food. Food tasting events will also be organised for visitors to experience a variety of ASEAN foods and beverages. Seoul Food 2023 (SF2003) is one of the largest food exhibitions in the East Asian nation. The event gathers 1,500 companies from 30 countries with up to 2,500 booths. The four-day event offers an opportunity for the food and beverage industry of the RoK and other participating countries to seek cooperation opportunities. Workshop promotes Vietnams initiative on displaying ASEAN Flag A workshop was held in Hanoi on May 22, providing guidelines for displaying the ASEAN Flag next to the National Flag at the compound of ASEAN Member States military units participating in United Nations Peacekeeping Operations. Promoting digital skills and online safety with ASEAN initiative The ASEAN Digital Literacy Programme National Closing Workshop was held on May 23 to encourage the community's inclusive digital skill development and online safety. BVBank The move, outlined in Decision No.1001/QD-NHNN issued by the SBV on May 26, states that the new English abbreviation for the bank will be BVBank, replacing its previous designation. The adoption of the new abbreviation is in line with the bank's objective of having a concise, easily recognisable, and memorable name. This change aims to enhance the convenience of communication between BVBank and its customers, aligning with its customer-centric approach encapsulated in its slogan Starting with YOU. By securing the approval of the SBV, BVBank has taken a significant step towards becoming more customer-oriented, as it seeks to provide improved products, services, and overall benefits to its clientele. Furthermore, the new name also boosts the bank's international identity, positioning it for greater recognition and presence in global markets. The update reflects its commitment to establishing a strong and cohesive brand image on the international stage. Looking ahead, BVBank will continue its efforts to build a cohesive brand identity and offer enhanced experiences to its customers. The strategic focus is to become a versatile and modern financial institution, with a particular emphasis on meeting the needs of individuals and small- and medium-sized enterprises. The bank aims to achieve this by implementing various initiatives and leveraging its digital banking platform to deliver convenience and value. Despite the challenging market conditions in the first quarter of 2023, BVBank demonstrated stability in its operations. It achieved appropriate credit growth and consistently introduced programmes and product packages that offered advantages and innovative features for both individual and business customers through its digital banking services. Established in 1992, BVBank has spent three decades in Vietnam cultivating a solid position and earning the satisfaction of its customers, partners, and shareholders. Guided by the principles of growth, sustainability, and quality, BVBank remains committed to its strategic goals for the 2021-2023 period, with a strong focus on becoming a versatile and modern retail bank catering to the unique needs of individual and small- and medium-sized enterprise clients. Additionally, the bank strives to be at the forefront of digital transformation within the banking industry. Its dedication and achievements were recognised in 2022, as it received four prestigious international awards, including honours for technological advancement, digital transformation, innovation, and payment solutions in Vietnam. These accolades further reinforce BVBank's reputation and commitment to excellence within the domestic and international banking sectors. BVBank targets move to Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange in 2023 Viet Capital Bank (BAN VIET Bank) held its annual general shareholders' meeting on April 26, where the agenda was discussed. The meeting was a success, reflecting the bank's ability to adapt to market changes while maintaining operational safety and efficiency. Masan chose South Korea as the next key market to launch its premium Chin-su collection after Japan. The company has invested in research and development to create a set of products that appeal to the country's culinary traditions and standards, as part of Chin-su's goal to bring Vietnamese cuisine to the world. Chin-su also launched a selection of Pho seasoning at the event, along with its chilli, soy, and fish sauces, developed with input from chefs, young people, and families in South Korea. There are three varieties of Chin-su chilli sauce available. First, the Original flavour makes any Korean dish hot with the spicy warmth of Vietnamese chilli peppers. With the harmony of spicy, sweet and sour flavours, Chin-su chilli sauce can be easily incorporated into typical Korean dishes such as pancakes, fried chicken, Gyoza (dumplings), fish cakes, and fried potatoes. The second variety is Bibim chilli sauce, which is mixed with rice sauce and is inspired by the typical Korean condiment Gochujang, combined with the flavour of Chin-su chilli sauce. Finally, Wasabi chilli sauce was first introduced to South Korean food lovers after making a big splash in the Japanese and Vietnamese markets. Chin-su chilli sauce is now also available in convenient tubes, first launched at Seoul Food 2023. The new design targets food lovers who are passionate about discovering and collecting multiple flavours alongside Chin-su's signature red bottle. Chin-su's Bien Dong anchovy fish sauce boasts 40 grams of protein and is made from an exclusive source of fish sauce. It provides the ultimate delicious taste with an amber-red brown colour, deep aroma, and rich sweet taste of ripe fish. As the pride of the Chin-su brand, this high-class product not only brings a delicate flavour to family meals, but also promises to conquer the taste buds of patrons in South Korea, just as it did in Japan. Also at Seoul Food 2023, Chin-su surprised many traditional food lovers when it launched the Pho Story line. Pho Story brings consumers on a journey of discovery, as it preserves and develops the traditional flavour of Vietnamese pho. The product is elaborately processed from carefully selected ingredients to bring out the delicate nuances of the sweet and delicate broth with the aroma of beef, ginger, and scallions, blended with soft noodles. The elegant flavour of this traditional recipe is encapsulated in the Pho Story brand so that pho lovers can savour the ancestral dash in modern times, wherever they are. Kim In Chon, president of Hyosung International, said, "The launch of Chin-su's premium condiment collection and Pho seasoning at Seoul Food 2023 is a testament to the unique culinary exchange between our two countries. Vietnamese cuisine has become more renowned among South Koreans, as many Vietnamese restaurants and eateries have sprung up all over the country. We are extremely confident that when Chin-su seasoning and sauces are officially launched in South Korea, we will be able to quickly distribute these products to eager consumers." Seoul Food is an annual international event for the hotel, hospitality, and food and beverage industry. This year's event was the 41st edition and attracted over 1,000 businesses from more than 30 countries. Chin-su's product launch marks the first step for the company in introducing its collection of noodles and spices to the South Korean market. Moving forward, Chin-su hopes to expand its coverage, serving the needs of South Korean consumers and overseas Vietnamese who live, study, and work all over the country. Masan is accelerating its "Go Global" strategy, with a target of 15 per cent of sales coming from international business by 2027. The success in the Japanese market and a strong start in South Korea will be encouragement for Masan to launch its products in other developed markets around the world, such as Australia, Europe, and North America. Pham Hong Son, deputy general director of Masan Consumer, said, "Vietnamese cuisine is on the list of the world's top cuisines. Spices are vital to recreate the uniqueness of Vietnamese cuisine, such as the strong flavour of anchovy fish sauce, the stimulating spicy warmth of chilli peppers, and the aroma of garlic and traditional herbs." "Masan Consumer wishes to bring the appeal of Vietnamese cuisine to the world through Chin-Su seasoning and sauces so that people in different countries can enjoy Vietnamese cuisine, Son added. CHIN-SU chili sauce sublimates the taste of pho in the old pho space CHIN-SU chili sauce contributed to recreating the scene of cooking old pho with traditional flavours in Van Cu Village from December 9 to 12. The villagers from the hometown of pho and thousands of visitors witnessed talented chefs preparing the dish and excitedly immersed themselves in the interesting activities during the Day of Pho. Masan Consumer bags half the shares in Net Detergent JSC Masan HPC Co., Ltd. (Masan HPC) has successfully acquired 52 per cent of the shares in Net Detergent JSC at an average price of VND48,000 ($2.08) per share, implying a full valuation of $46 million and a price to earnings multiple of 13x. IOMs Chief of Mission Park Mihyung (second from left) speaks at the workshop (Photo: VNA) Hanoi The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the Department of Drug Control and Crime Prevention of the Vietnam Border Guard on May 30 held a workshop to launch the Training Curriculum on Counter-Trafficking and Victim Protection and to wrap up the project Frontline training for Border Guards in Border Areas of Vietnam, funded by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the US Department of State. Participants at the workshop agreed that the Vietnam Border Guard plays an important role in the fight against trafficking in persons (TIP) and the provision of protection and support for trafficking victims. Overseeing 4,639km of land borders and 3,444km of coastlines, the Border Guard is at the forefront of cross-border crime prevention and control.After three years of implementation, the project has achieved a number of significant outcomes that profoundly enhanced the technical capacity of Vietnam's border guards, especially frontline officers in hotspot border areas, to better detect, investigate and handle TIP cases, as well as identify, protect and assist trafficking victims.Within the framework of this project, the training curriculum on counter-trafficking and victim protection for frontline officers was developed by the Vietnam Border Guard High Command and approved by the Ministry of Defence for use in training. The Training Curriculum was disseminated to border guard stations and border guard academies in 12 target provinces and was used to conduct 12 training workshops for 436 frontline Border Guard officers in 12 target provinces in the northern and southern regions. The project also creates a forum for the officers to exchange effective methods, professional skills and practical experiences that have been successfully applied in retracing, investigating and prosecuting TIP cases.I am a strong supporter of this project from the very beginning and IOM is very proud to cooperate with the Department of Drug Control and Crime Prevention of the Vietnam Border Guard to contribute to enhancing capacities of Vietnam Border Guard officers, who are at the frontline to receive, protect and identify returning trafficking victims. Facilitating safe and orderly cross-border human mobility for migrants, while maintaining border security, supporting border guards engagement is one of the critical components in IOM mandate, Park Mihyung, IOMs Chief of Mission stated.Trafficking in persons is a complex global problem that requires a coordinated response. This project is a significant part of IOMs work to support the Government of Vietnam to just strengthen its border management, but also contribute to the comprehensive effort under the nations Human Trafficking Prevention and Control Programme 2021-2025 and the National Implementation Plan for the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM), of which Vietnam is an active member," she added.IOM also coordinated with Department of Drug Control and Crime Prevention to conduct end-of-training assessments at six hotspot provinces including An Giang, Kien Giang, Tay Ninh, Ba Ria Vung Tau, Cao Bang and Lang Son. The assessment results not only provided valuable information on the ongoing trends and modus operandi of TIP criminals and irregular migration activities in border areas but also revealed the challenges that border guards and victim support agencies must face in implementing processes and procedures for the investigation of TIP cases as well as trafficking victim protection and support.The frontline officers who participated in the assessment also contributed useful intervention ideas and recommendations to address ongoing obstacles for consideration by IOM and the DDCCP in future cooperation. (Photo : Win McNamee/Getty Images) The United States government renews its calls for Sweden to join NATO as Turkey continues to push back on voting to ratify Stockholm into the fold over Kurdish militants. The US government renews its calls for Sweden to join NATO amid Turkey's continued holdout Stockholm filed its application to join the military alliance at the same time as Finland, which Angara allowed in April 2023 Turkey's holdout is mainly over its concerns regarding Kurdish militants that are allegedly hiding out in the two countries The United States government renewed its calls for Sweden to join NATO, urging Turkey to vote yes and drop its objections shortly after President Tayyip Recep Erdogan won his re-election bid. Sweden filed its application to join the global military alliance alongside Finland last year, reversing decades of hesitation. The decision was made following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, causing a shift in the balance of power in the region. US Renews Calls for Sweden To Join NATO The stalemate with Stockholm's application results from the military alliance needing a unanimous decision among its members when taking in new allies. Turkey has used this as leverage and pushed its demands on Sweden regarding Kurdish militants, as per NDTV. In a statement, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that Sweden is already "within reach" to join just in time for the NATO summit that will be held on July 11 to July 12 in the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius. Stoltenberg said that without guarantees, the involved parties could reach a solution. This would be one that would include Sweden's full membership in the military alliance. During his visit to Sweden on his to Oslo, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the Swedish government had already addressed Turkey's concerns. He added that it was finally time for Turkey and Hungary, which also blocks Sweden's application, to ratify Stockholm's accession as quickly as possible. Read Also: North Korea to Deploy First Military Surveillance Satellite to Spy on US Exercises Turkey's Continued Refusal Blinken made his remarks while speaking alongside Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on Tuesday. He said that from the United States government's perspective, it was already time to finalize Stockholm's accession, according to Aljazeera. The renewed calls for Sweden to join NATO come as the military alliance has a collective defense pact, which means that an attack on any one of its members means an attack on all of the member countries. The alliance unanimously allowed new countries to join its ranks, which was the case when Finland entered the fray. But Turkey has continued to claim that Sweden is harboring members of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which Angara considers a "terrorist" group. United States President Joe Biden also discussed Sweden's accession to the global military alliance with Erdogan. The discussion happened during a call between the two leaders, where they also talked about Ankara's desire to purchase F-16 fighter jets from the American military. The call happened as Biden tried to congratulate Erdogan for winning his re-election bid in Turkey's recent elections. The Democratic leader said that he spoke with the Turkish president and expressed his desire to get a deal that would have Stockholm join NATO, said Reuters. Related Article: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to Hold Talks with President Biden Next Week @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. According to Vo Quang Lam, deputy general director of Electricity of Vietnam (EVN), the state utility will increase its imports of electricity from China and Laos to supplement domestic power supply. EVN is attempting to ensure electricity supply for the rest of this quarter, which is the most challenging time of year in terms of ensuring supply. The increase in electricity capacity imported from Laos can be accomplished this year. EVN is currently awaiting Laos completion of the line to connect Vietnams imports of electricity to the line system running through the Tuong Duong district of Nghe An province, Lam said. Neighbourly efforts in tow to aid electricity prospects, illustration photo/ Le Toan EVN is currently in negotiations with Yunnan International Co., Ltd. to raise output and purchasing capacity on current 220kV lines and to purchase additional electricity through 110kV lines. Vietnam imports electricity from China via the provinces of Ha Giang and Lao Cai, but it is challenging to expand its capacity due to the constraints of 220kV lines, according to Lam. EVN is examining the possibility of importing electricity through the 500kV line at this juncture, he said. This plan is anticipated to be operational after 2025, after addressing frequency and generator fluctuations, improving the line, and installing a voltage transfer gateway to bring electricity to Vietnam. The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) had established the electricity production and import plan for 2023 based on a scenario with a 6.5 per cent GDP growth rate and commercial electricity consumption near 251.3 billion kWh, a rise of nearly nine billion kWh from 2022. According to the power system supply and operation plan authorised by the MoIT, the total output of produced and imported electricity in 2023 will be 284.5 billion kWh. Currently, Vietnam hopes to accelerate its electricity import initiatives, but there remain numerous hurdles in the way. Nguyen Khang, vice head of EVNs Power Projects Management Board 2, stated that the intricate landscape and slow ground clearance are the biggest obstacles that influence the building of the Bo Y 220kV switching station and 220kV transmission line to import electricity from the Nam Kong 1-3 Dam Hydropower Cluster in Laos. Two-thirds of the demolition station project is on the hill and one-third is in the valley. Consequently, many sections must be fortified to ensure safety, Khang explained. The efforts of energy industry authorities are essential, but according to analysts, it may be insufficient to regard electricity imports as an effective means of ensuring the economys electricity supply. The policy of importing electricity was outlined in the fifth Power Development Plan at the turn of the century, but the strategy of importing electricity from neighbouring countries is not yet explicit and synchronised, and both the output and imported power capacity are still quite modest. According to the MoIT, Vietnam imported 953 million kWh during the first quarter of 2023, representing just 1.5 per cent of the systems electricity source. Burdensome procedures and low average electricity prices are a significant barrier to electricity imports at present. Additionally, technical and operational obstacles impact the magnitude of electricity imports. The inability to synchronise the power systems of Vietnam, China, and Laos has resulted in the distinct operation of the complete power infrastructure, which receives electricity from those countries and sends it to Vietnam. A number of analysts concur that Vietnams reliance on imported energy will increase. Regarding Vietnams three neighbours of China, Laos, and Cambodia, the potential to import electricity from the former two by 2030 is approximately 7,000MW. However, Cambodias hydropower potential is insufficient to support significant long-term imports of electricity. One energy developer told VIR that Vietnam must promptly establish a profitable, open, and strictly controlled domestic electricity market if it wishes to increase the amount of electricity imported from abroad. The macro and long-term commitments on electricity trade between Vietnam and Laos and Vietnam and China must also be authorised; consider this a prerequisite for the construction of a dedicated transmission infrastructure for long-term electricity import, which will help to optimise grid investment capital and reduce land funds for transmission lines. A representative of one energy institution added that, given that conventional sources of electricity are becoming more challenging to construct, the increase in electricity imports becomes significant. As a consequence, analysts concur that imports of electricity from neighbouring countries, such as Laos and Cambodia, should be considered a significant source of energy. Mong Cai city imports electricity Chinas Dongxing The Mong Cai (Vietnam) - Dongxing (China) 110kV transmission line was completed and put into operation at 6 am on May 22, adding power supply to Mong Cai city in the northeastern province of Quang Ninh, according to the Mong Cai City Electricity. Projections from the report suggest that by 2027, the number of UHNWIs in Vietnam will approach 1,300, representing a further 22 per cent increase from the current level and a staggering 122 per cent growth over a 10-year period. Vietnam sees 82 per cent rise in ultra-high-net-worth individuals, illustration photo Moreover, Vietnam's high-net-worth individuals, or defined as individuals with assets exceeding $1 million, have also seen a substantial rise, with a 70 per cent increase over the past five years. It is expected that this segment will experience a remarkable surge of 173 per cent over the span of a decade, from 2017 to 2027. This shift in the affluent and super-rich population in Vietnam aligns with the broader trend of prosperity across Asia. Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia have emerged as the markets with the fastest-growing population of UHNWIs, experiencing growth rates of around 7-9 per cent. In the Asia-Pacific region, the number of these super-rich individuals has witnessed a dramatic surge of nearly 51 per cent within a five-year period, ending in 2022. Although predictions suggest a slowdown to 40 per cent growth over the next five years, the region still remains at the forefront of global wealth expansion. Christine Li, director of Asia-Pacific Research at Knight Frank, said, "Following a record growth rate of 7.5 per cent in 2021, the population of UHNWIs in the Asia-Pacific region experienced a 5.7 per cent decline in 2022. However, three of the top ten markets globally with the strongest growth in UHNWIs are Southeast Asian countries - Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia - with growth rates ranging from 7-9 per cent. Looking ahead, this region still holds significant potential and prospects for prosperous development." Victoria Garrett, director of Residential Real Estate Services in the Asia-Pacific region at Knight Frank stated that despite the decrease in the number of super-rich individuals last year, the population of individuals with assets valued at $1 million or above still grew by 2.9 per cent, reaching nearly 70 million worldwide. Accordingly, the top three countries in this regard were Malaysia, Brazil, and Indonesia. Additionally, the top 100 luxury real estate markets globally saw an average price increase of 5.2 per cent, with premium investment assets witnessing a 16 per cent surge. According to forecasts, the top ten global growth leaders will continue to be dominated by European and Asian economies. Economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region will remain concentrated in urban areas, with the high-end residential real estate market predominantly determined within urban segments. Given the high urbanisation rate in the region, investors can expect a more sustainable growth trajectory and enhanced asset consolidation. BIDV enters strategic partnership with Switzerland-based Edmond de Rothschild The private banking services of BIDV, with support from Switzerland-based private banking institution Edmond de Rothschild, are expected to provide tailored financial solutions and investment advice to high-net-worth clients in Vietnam. ATLANTA (AP) A dinosaur exhibition linked to the Jurassic Park movie franchise has temporarily closed its Atlanta location after police say people broke in and caused more than $250,000 in damage. Atlanta police say they responded Monday to a burglary call at the exhibition, which had just opened Friday at Pullman Yards, an event space east of downtown Atlanta. The general manager told police that four people broke in around 9:30 p.m. Surveillance footage showed one person sitting atop of one of the animatronic dinosaurs while ripping off the skin covering," according to an incident report obtained by local news outlets. A suspect also stole four custom-made dinosaur shirts valued at $6,000 each, the report said. A security guard took a picture of an intruder at 6:30 a.m. Monday at a restaurant on the property. Atlanta police later identified and arrested 19-year-old Acauan Carvalho Van Deusen, charging him with second-degree burglary. It's unclear if Van Deusen has a lawyer who could speak for him. None of the other suspects have been publicly identified. The publicist for the exhibition said organizers hope to reopen June 7, saying people who had bought tickets have been sent emails on how to rebook. We are excited to host everyone once the exhibition has reopened, organizers said in a statement. Everette Wadley told WANF-TV that the damage ruined a special occasion for her child. It was a little disappointing because it was supposed to be a surprise, but we are going to make the best of it, Wadley said. Can you imagine trying to tell an 8-year-old were not going to be able to see that today? Promoters earlier told WAGA-TV that Animax Designs of Nashville, Tennessee, took 18 months to design and build the animatronic dinosaurs included in exhibition, which draws on six Jurassic Park movies and an animated Netflix series. Two other similar exhibitions are currently running near Toronto and in Cologne, Germany, part of a group that has been touring world cities since 2016. AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) New legislation would allow Native Americans in Maine to benefit from federal laws despite terms of a land claims settlement, providing help to Wabanaki tribes while stopping short of full sovereignty that they've long sought. The bipartisan proposal introduced by Democratic House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross forbids the creation of tribal casinos without state permission and keeps intact existing criminal jurisdictions, removing potential stumbling blocks to allowing tribes to benefit from laws meant to help them. With this bill, we have the opportunity to right this wrong, Talbot Ross said Wednesday in a statement, noting that the bill is a step toward greater sovereignty sought by tribes. But the administration of Democratic Gov. Janet Mills opposed the proposal, and her general counsel warned Wednesday that the bill could lead to confusion and litigation. Tribes in the state are governed by the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act of 1980 that stipulates theyre bound by state law, treating tribal reservations much like municipalities and generally barring federal laws that undermine state law. That sets them apart from the other 570 federally recognized tribes. The new bill goes further than a previous proposal by U.S. Rep. Jared Golden, D-Maine, in Congress that aimed to allow the Passamaquoddy, Penobscot and Maliseet and Mikmaq tribes to benefit from federal tribal legislation moving forward. Instead, it would apply retroactively to about 150 existing federal laws, as well as any future federal laws. Penobscot Nation Chief Kirk Francis said the bill would allow tribes to gain access to the things that everyone wants economic opportunity for our families, and safer and healthier, communities. It is time for the state to stop treating the Wabanaki Nations as threats and start treating us as partners and neighbors that we are," he told the Judiciary Committee. The Judiciary Committee held a public hearing on Wednesday, a day after the bill was introduced, and weeks before lawmakers could adjourn from special session. The governor was among the proposal's critics. Gerald Reid, her chief legal counsel, criticized the introduction of such a far-reaching bill near the end of the legislative session, and for the committee to hold a public hearing with only one days notice. Reid urged the tribes to work with the administration instead of adopting a bill that would create new problems and lawsuits. Ensuring that the Wabanaki Nations are appropriately benefiting from federal Indian statutes can and should be resolved collaboratively, he told the committee. Supporters of the proposal contend the tribes have missed out on benefits of federal laws related to the environment, health care, economic development and even natural disasters. Vice Chief Joseph Socobasin, of Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township, or Motahkomikuk, said his reservation couldnt simply reach out to the Federal Emergency Management Agency when a major freeze damaged the health center earlier this year, a dire consequence of lacking access to the 1988 disaster assistance law known as the Stafford Act. House Republican Leader Billy Bob Faulkingham, a co-sponsor of the bill, said he looks forward to lawmakers passing a piece of legislation that ourselves and future generations can look back on with pride. He added, in a statement, I think we have a lot of ground to cover, but we can get there. State lawmakers aren't expected to act on a more sweeping bill aimed at granting the tribes full sovereignty, similar to one that garnered support last year but withered under a veto threat by Mills. That proposal is likely to be carried over and reintroduced in 2024. For the tribes, it has been a long, frustrating battle since they traded some rights to the state under an $81.5 million settlement that was signed by President Jimmy Carter. That settlement for the Passamaquoddy, Penobscot and Maliseet, along with a 1991 agreement for the Mikmaq, put the tribes in Maine on a different path from tribes elsewhere across the country. The other federally recognized tribes have greater autonomy and partner with the federal government. Follow David Sharp on Twitter @David_Sharp_AP SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced Tuesday that W. Troy Weisler will be the next State Police chief, effective June 24. Weisler will become the states 23rd police chief and succeeds Tim Johnson, who is retiring after 23 years on the job. Weisler, a 21-year State Police veteran, has served as deputy chief since 2021. He is the deputy chief for strategic development, special projects, communications and recruiting and has worked in every division of the state Department of Public Safetys Law Enforcement Program. Weisler now will lead a force of more than 700 officers stationed throughout New Mexico. Weisler began his career with the State Police as a patrol officer in Deming and Moriarty in 2002. He then served in various investigation, research and narcotics roles in Albuquerque and Santa Fe. McLennan County deputies arrested a man Friday on theft warrants, including a charge that he conspired with others to steal $4,500 in Legos from a Waco Walmart. A Waco Police Department warrant alleged that Will Harold Wallace Jr., 20, along with two other men, stole the toys March 26 from the Walmart at 600 Hewitt Drive. The other two suspects in the incident have not been arrested in McLennan County. Wallace was also charged with joining two others in the theft of about $4,800 worth of products from the Bellmead Walmart on April 27, based on a Bellmead arrest warrant affidavit. A member of Walmart Global Investigations told the Waco lead detective that Wallace and another man are believed to have been involved in theft of products from at least 20 other Walmart stores around Texas, according to the Waco affidavit. Jail records show Wallace has a charge from Collin County of theft of less than $30,000, along with four charges from Tarrant County and a charge from Terrell police of theft of less than $2,500. The Waco lead detective wrote that according to an employee of Walmart Global Investigations, Wallace and one of the other suspects were also identified by Plano police and Waxahachie police, according to the Waco affidavit. The lead detective compared photos of Wallace and the other identified suspect with images of the suspects in the case to verify that they match, according to the Waco affidavit. Wallace was also charged with engaging in organized criminal activity based on the Walmart thefts in Waco and Bellmead. Wallace was being held Tuesday at McLennan County Jail on a bond of $117,500. The two Republican lawmakers representing Waco in the Texas House of Representatives landed on opposite sides of the Houses 121-23 vote Saturday to impeach Attorney General Ken Paxton. Rep. Charles Doc Anderson, R-Waco, said he voted against impeaching Paxton primarily due to issues he had with the way the impeachment process unfolded. Anderson said members had only three days before the vote to review the articles of impeachment after they were brought to the House. Rep. Angelia Orr, R-Hill County, who was among the 60 Republicans and 61 Democrats who voted in favor of impeachment, did not respond Tuesday to calls and an email to her office. Last week, a GOP-led House committee brought 20 articles of impeachment against Paxton on misconduct allegations including bribery, retaliation against whistleblowers and obstruction of justice. Following his impeachment by the House, Paxton is suspended from office and will face trial in the Senate. Paxtons Senate trial is set to begin no later than Aug. 28. A two-thirds majority in the Senate is required to permanently remove him from office. Sen. Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury, whose district includes McLennan County, is the chair of the Senate panel that will make recommendations about the rules for Paxtons trial. His office declined to comment when contacted by the Tribune-Herald on Tuesday. Anderson said House members were not informed Paxton was even being investigated until the House General Investigating Committee introduced the articles of impeachment. He said the investigation began in March. Anderson also said he took issue with the timing of the articles coming near the end of the legislative session, as lawmakers were busy working to finish up debates over pending legislation and had to pivot to decide on impeachment. Overall, he said he believes the impeachment process should be thorough and in the public eye. When it comes to impeachment, we need to be sure we cross all our Ts and dot all our Is, Anderson said. Anderson declined to specify whether he believes Paxton is guilty of the charges brought against him. He said Paxtons guilt will be determined in his Senate trial. The 20 articles of impeachment against Paxton allege he abused his power to benefit his friend, Nate Paul, an Austin real estate developer, and Pauls business interests. The articles say Paxton directed employees of his office to intervene in a case concerning Paul and gave information to Paul that had not been publicly released. The articles allege Paxton fired employees who reported his illegal actions, took bribes, obstructed justice and provided false or misleading information in several official records. The articles say Paxton engaged in bribery by Paul providing renovations to Paxtons home and by employing a woman with whom Paxton was having an extramarital affair. (Photo : Mark Wilson/Getty Images) House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is facing GOP opposition to his newly-reached debt ceiling deal with United States President Joe Biden. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy faces GOP opposition to new debt ceiling deal with Joe Biden Members of the Freedom House caucus called on the Republicans to scrap the agreement altogether The caucus urged McCarthy to instead work on something that would more aggressively cut back government spending Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy faces GOP opposition over his new debt ceiling deal with United States President Joe Biden. On Tuesday, the House Freedom Caucus members said that they were calling on McCarthy to scrap the deal and instead work on something that would more aggressively restrict government spending. GOP Lawmakers Oppose New Debt Ceiling Deal In a statement, ten members of the Freedom House caucus said that the newly-reached deal allows for unlimited borrowing. They argued that it also includes cuts that primarily reflect emergency COVID spending that they said would end anyway, even without the deal. Republican lawmakers said the new deal fails to include measures to address border security in the United States. The caucus' chair, Scott Perry, described the new agreement as "absolutely and completely unacceptable," as per Fox News. Perry said that GOP lawmakers would do everything they could to disrupt the bipartisan bill and noted that he was "focused" on defeating the deal. As of Thursday, it was not clear if there were enough Republicans who opposed the agreement to force it to fail in the House on Wednesday. On the other hand, several Democratic lawmakers are likely to support the bill to express their backing of Biden. As of Tuesday, there were only about two dozen Republican lawmakers who have announced that they would either vote against the deal or are considering opposing it. But Texas Rep. Chip Roy suggested that the House speaker could find it challenging to get the necessary votes to pass the new del. He noted that McCarthy did not even have a majority of his conference, arguing that no Republican should vote in support of the bill. Read Also: US Renews Calls for Sweden To Join NATO Some Republican Support for the Bill The inclusion of Biden's deal with McCarthy includes extending the debt limit for two years and modest federal spending cuts while also cutting a series of policy provisions. According to NBC News, the agreement, known as the Fiscal Responsibility Act, needs to pass the Democrat-led Senate before the June 5 deadline of a potential default. The primary focus of the new deal is a suspension of the debt ceiling, which is currently set at $31.4 trillion until January 1, 2025. The Treasury Department said that this situation would enable it to use "extraordinary measures" to pay the country's bills, which usually last for months. On the other hand, Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky said he was planning on backing the bill and making it to the floor despite misgivings. He argued that his interest in being on the House Rules Committee is not to imprint his ideology. Massie's alleged support of the bill boosts the House speaker's effort to push the agreement through. He hammered out a deal with President Biden in several days of contentious negotiations, said the New York Times. Related Article: FBI Director Urges To Speak With Comer Over Alleged $5 Million Payment @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. PRESS RELEASE Have you ever flown in a Huey helicopter with the doors wide open and the wind rushing over your face? You will have that opportunity at the Liberty Aviation Museum in Port Clinton on June 3 & 4. This experience is not your typical aircraft ride; youll feel the difference from lift-off to landing. For only $125.00, you can take a thrilling 10minute flight with a new perspective from the air. Book your ride/time in advance or take a chance and walk up that day. Rides occur from 11:00am until 4:00pm each day. To order tickets in advance visit https://yankeeairmuseum.org/fly/#huey or just walk up at 11:00am to see whats available. If youre curious, come and check out the Huey during the day and hear the iconic sound. The Yankee Air Museum Huey, Greyhound, served in the Vietnam War from 1967 until 1971. It was part of the 240th Assault Helicopter Company known as The Greyhounds, Mad Dogs, and Kennel Keepers. The Greyhound Bus Company was honored by the name and gave the company permission to use its logo. A versatile helicopter, the UH-1 was used as a gun ship, medical evacuation and for utility purposes. Huey rides and the Liberty Aviation Museum are located at 3515 East State Road, Port Clinton, OH. About Yankee Air Museum: Established in 1981 the Yankee Air Museum is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. The Yankee Air Museum dedicates itself to educating individuals through the history of American aeronautics, aerospace industry and its associated technologies while inspiring generations through personal experiences to instill pride in our national accomplishments. Yankee Air Museum, located at 47884 D Street, Belleville, Michigan on the grounds of historic Willow Run Airport. Visit www.yankeeairmuseum.org to discover more or call 734-483-4030. About Liberty Aviation Museum: Established in 1991, the Liberty Aviation Museum is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. The Liberty Aviation Museums mission is to provide an adequate organization for historians, aircraft and vehicle preservationists and collectors interested in encouraging internationally the acquisition, restoration, operation, preservation, public education and display of historic aircraft, vehicles and related items. Visit www.libertyaviationmuseum.org for more information. Well, yes, you could go do outdoorsy things this summer. Or you could read. Here are six new books that are good summer reads. Wishing you a season full of good books! "The Guest" By Emma Cline (Random House, $28) Emma Cline's previous novel, "The Girls," followed a young woman in the throes of a cult led by a Charles Manson-like figure; her latest, "The Guest," focuses on another young woman, this one entirely on her own, managing solely by her wits. Alex is a grifter who's perfected the art of "how to draw people in with a vision of themselves, recognizable but turned up ten degrees, amplified into something better. How to allude to her own desires as if they were shared desires." The ironically titled "The Guest" lets us tag along on a week in the Hamptons, as Alex, summarily dismissed by the older man at whose beach house she's been staying (he didn't like her behavior at a party), decides she'll wait six days and then see if he'll take her back. This means she has six days and nights with nowhere to go, and we watch with fascination as Alex joins a group on a house-share weekend (everyone assumes they know her from somewhere), persuades a house manager to let her hang at his employer's lavish home (Alex is good at finding people whose job it is to be agreeable), latches on to a family at a country club, and charms a lonely teen who knows someone with an empty house. You read "The Guest" quickly and breathlessly, wondering how long Alex can sustain her act and realizing it could, if need be, go on forever. And yet Cline, through the dreamy elegance of her writing, makes Alex a poignant figure as the days waft by. Alex, who is "tall enough and skinny enough that people often assumed that she was more beautiful than she was," sees herself as a ghost, floating through life, attached to nothing and no one, letting shame "become a feeling she considered from a distance." "Dances" By Nicole Cuffy (Random House: One World, $27) This timely debut novel unfolds in the world of ballet, where Celine (Cece) Cordell has just become the first Black principal ballerina at New York City Ballet (she notes, ruefully, that people mistake her for Misty Copeland, though the two are "shades of brown apart"). Only 22, Cece is both dazzled by her position in the country's most storied ballet company and uncomfortable with it; she knows that she is now an icon, a symbol, "that there are people who need me more than I need myself." Through the book's graceful pages, with chapter headings named for elements of ballet, we follow Cece's rocky relationship with a fellow dancer (we know, long before she does, that he's not good for her); her search for the troubled older brother who disappeared from her life, but whose relationship with art inspired her own; her navigation of a company where friends and rivals are interchangeable and one bad rehearsal can change one's fate, but which represented to her as a young student "a forbidden city to which I was desperate for admission." Nicole Cuffy writes beautifully about dance, weaving in the kind of detail that's both vivid and informative (the idea that dancers have bad turn days or bad balance days, the mechanics of being lifted, how an adagio combination makes the dancer feel like she is "growing up toward the ceiling like new, green life"). And in Cece she creates a heroine who's believably still maturing, but whose hard-won wisdom resonates on the page. Accustomed to seeing herself in the mirror as "a black slash in a line of whippet-thin white," she sees her choice as a career in the art that she loves as a rebellion, an "insistence that Black women can be ethereal too. That we don't always have to be drawn in bold lines." "Confidence" By Rafael Frumkin (Simon & Schuster, $27.99) Stories about con artists seem to be in the air these days; see the first review in this list, or "Inventing Anna," or "The Dropout." Apparently, we're in the mood for stories about people reinventing themselves, finding ways to grab more than their share, telling lies so routinely they no longer can recognize the truth. Rafael Frumkin's second novel feels pleasantly evocative of "The Talented Mr. Ripley": Ezra, our narrator, falls hard for the handsome and charismatic Orson, whom he meets at a teenage labor camp, the "final stop before juvie." Orson's feelings for Ezra feel a bit more transactional; he's fascinated by how people tend to believe whatever Ezra says. "It's not innocence exactly," he says of that quality; it's more like "you invite scrutiny because you can withstand scrutiny." And withstand it he does, for a while, as the two form a con-artist team with schemes growing bigger and bigger until they create a fake corporation, with a product that supposedly helps users "bring your body and mind together," creating bliss. (In fact, it does nothing.) But to Ezra's dismay, Orson begins to pull away from him, drawn to lights shining elsewhere as Ezra's eyesight, literally, dims. Frumkin has crafted a clever satire of how we're pulled toward shiny things and how it's possible to fly near the sun with no wings, with a final line that made me laugh out loud. "Small Mercies" By Dennis Lehane (Harper, $28.99) Dennis Lehane is just so very good at this. "Small Mercies," like all of his dozen or so novels (several of which have become very good movies), is a crime thriller set in a big city, where people are just trying to live their lives despite darkness swirling around them. This time, it's 1974 Boston, and working-class, tough-as-nails mom Mary Pat Fennessy doesn't know why her teenage daughter Jules hasn't come home. But she knows that racial divisions are causing tension in the neighborhood and that a young Black man was found dead on the train tracks that night. Could Jules be somehow connected to that event? Mary Pat, whose other child died in the Vietnam War, isn't going to lose her daughter without a fight, even if it means having to deal with Boston's most sinister crime lords. "Small Mercies" takes place during a heat wave, and you feel the sticky closeness on every page, as Lehane introduces us to a sea of Southie folk: cops, gangsters, extended family, activists, aimless teens, grieving mothers, hangers-on. Lehane can be very funny; note how Jules, early in the book, "bolts from a chair like she owes it money." But at its heart, "Small Mercies" is an epic tragedy with a remarkable character at its center: Mary Pat, a deeply flawed but immensely sympathetic person consumed by a strength she didn't know she had, determined to find out what happened to her daughter, at any cost. Watching her, detective Bobby Coyne is "struck by the notion that something both irretrievably broken and wholly unbreakable lives at the core of this woman. And those two qualities cannot coexist. A broken person can't be unbreakable. An unbreakable person can't be broken. And yet here sits Mary Pat Fennessy, broken but unbreakable." "Romantic Comedy" By Curtis Sittenfeld (Random House, $28) Sometimes, you just need a rom-com. Curtis Sittenfeld, author of multiple previous novels including the very funny Jane Austen spoof "Eligible," here tackles the simplest of plots: Sally, a TV writer in her 30s, meets Noah, a pop music star, when he guest hosts her show and against all odds, they end up in a relationship. Because every good romance has to overcome obstacles, they have plenty: Noah's fame, Sally's belief that a man as famous as Noah couldn't possibly love an "average" woman, and the pandemic, which descends midway through the book and upends their lives. Sally basically writes for "Saturday Night Live," except here it's called "The Night Owls," and if you've spent any time watching "30 Rock" it's hard not to see her as Tina Fey's Liz Lemon, working way too many hours and good-naturedly dealing with casual sexism but nonetheless believing that she has the best job in the world. "I think of TNO as the love of my life," Sally says at one point, and her eyes fill with tears, not "because I thought what I was saying was sad. It was because it was true, and not sad at all." Sittenfeld makes Sally a wonderfully vivid character; it's a pleasure spending time in her head. We don't spend as much time inside Noah's head (other than some revealing emails midbook), but it's no spoiler to say that he turns out to be a sweetheart, and that the book is written with wit and heart. Sally talks at one point about how she wants to write a romantic comedy screenplay, with two characters who "aren't flawless but also aren't ridiculous or incompetent at life," and that's pretty much what Sittenfeld has crafted here. I've now read it twice, just for the pleasure ... and because sometimes, you just need a rom-com. "Holding Pattern" By Jenny Xie (Riverhead, $28, out June 20) Jenny Xie's debut novel is an irresistible mother-and-daughter story. Kathleen, the daughter, has dropped out of grad school after a breakup and returned home to Oakland, California, to live with her mother, Marissa, with whom she has a rocky relationship. Marissa, an immigrant from Shanghai, was hard-drinking, depressed and emotionally absent for many years; now, engaged to a Silicon Valley entrepreneur (whose genius invention, Wayfindr, "leverages real-time data and machine learning to help people discover hidden gems on their way from Point A to Point B"), she's suddenly happy. Kathleen, trailing along for dress fittings and cake tastings, is mystified, trying to make sense of this new version of her mother. Xie, who has previously written short fiction and magazine journalism, has fun with tech and influencer culture; I particularly liked a supporting character named Luke, who is obsessed with raising his pet rat Milo's profile on Instagram and hands out business cards reading "Luke Winchester, Rat Ambassador." But she also finds something wistful and touching in Kathleen's tentative journey toward intimacy, which includes a stint as a professional cuddler at a startup (whose requirements include completing a Cuddle Aptitude Test). Gazing at her mother sparkling in a wedding gown, Kathleen reflects that: "She was like anyone you loved, in that way the more intimately you knew her, the more closely you beheld the wild, unbreachable distance that would keep you from perfect understanding." How did you eat pork chops growing up? If you're of a certain age, I'll bet it was with a side of applesauce or maybe homemade mashed potatoes. Both pair perfectly with pork, so I'm not throwing shade on mom or grandma. But since it's spring, when fresh greens such as arugula and baby spinach are widely available, why not substitute a simple salad dressed in a zesty, lemony vinaigrette? TIJUANA, Mexico The day that President Joe Biden's administration ended a public health measure blocking many asylum-seekers at the Mexican border during the coronavirus pandemic, Teodoso Vargas was ready to show U.S. officials his scars and photos of his bullet-riddled body. Instead, he stood frozen with his pregnant wife and 5-year-old son at a Tijuana crossing, feet from U.S. soil. He was unsure of the new rules rolled out with the change and whether taking the next few steps to approach U.S. officials to ask for asylum in person could force a return to his native Honduras. "I can't go back to my country," said Vargas, a long scar snaking down his neck from surgery after being shot nine times in his homeland during a robbery. "Fear is why I don't want to return. If I can just show the proof I have, I believe the U.S. will let me in." Asylum-seekers say joy over the end of the public health restriction known as Title 42 last month is turning into anguish with the uncertainty about how the Biden administration's new rules affect them. Though the government opened some new avenues for immigration, the fate of many people is largely left to a U.S. government app only used for scheduling an appointment at a port of entry and unable to decipher human suffering or weigh the vulnerability of applicants. The CBP One app is a key tool in creating a more efficient and orderly system at the border "while cutting out unscrupulous smugglers who profit from vulnerable migrants," the Department of Homeland Security said in an email statement. But since its rollout in January, the app has been criticized for technological problems. Demand has far outstripped the roughly 1,000 appointments available on the app each day. As a Honduran man, Vargas does not qualify for many of the legal pathways the Biden administration introduced. One program gives up to 30,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans a month a shot at humanitarian parole if they apply online, have a financial sponsor in the U.S. and arrive by air. Minors traveling alone also are exempt from the rules. Migrants who do not follow the rules, the government said, could be deported back to their homelands and barred from seeking asylum for five years. Vargas said he decided not to risk it. He has been logging onto the app each day at 9 a.m. for the past three months from his rented room in a crime-riddled Tijuana neighborhood. His experience is shared by tens of thousands of other asylum-seekers in Mexican border towns. Immigration lawyer Blaine Bookey said for many on the border "there seems to be no option right now for people to ask for asylum if they don't have an appointment through the CBP app." The government said it doesn't turn away asylum-seekers but prioritizes people who use the app. Bookey's group, Center for Gender & Refugee Studies, is one of the lead plaintiffs, along with the American Civil Liberties Union, challenging some of the new rules in federal court in San Francisco, including a requirement that people first apply for asylum in a country they crossed on the way to the U.S. They are asking the court to allow an asylum request by anyone on U.S. soil. Texas Republican lawmakers also sued. Among other things, they argue the CBP One app encourages illegal immigration by dispensing appointments without properly vetting whether applicants have a legal basis to stay. The Biden administration said new measures, including the app, helped reduce unlawful immigration by more than 70% since Title 42 ended May 11. More than 79,000 people were admitted under CBP One from its Jan. 12 launch through the end of April. From May 12 to May 19, an average of 1,070 people per day presented themselves at the ports of entry after securing an appointment on the app, the government stated. It did not provide updated figures but said the numbers should grow as the initiative is scaled up. The administration also highlighted improvements made in recent weeks. The app can prioritize those who have been trying the longest. Appointments are opened online throughout the day to avoid system overload. People with acute medical conditions or facing imminent threats of murder, rape, kidnapping or other "exceptionally compelling circumstances" can request priority status, but only in person at a port of entry. The app does not allow input of case details. Still, some asylum-seekers claim to have been turned away at crossings while making requests, lawyers say. Koral Rivera, who is from Mexico and eight months pregnant, said she has been trying to obtain an appointment through the app for two months. She recently went to a Texas crossing to present her case to U.S. officials, but said Mexican immigration agents in Matamoros blocked her and her husband. "They tell us to try to get an appointment through the app," said Rivera, whose family has been threatened by drug cartel members. Priscilla Orta, an immigration attorney with Lawyers for Good Government in Brownsville, Texas, said one Honduran woman in the Mexican border city of Reynosa said a man whom she accuses of raping her tracked her down though her phone, which she was using to secure an appointment. The woman was raped again, said Orta, who has not been able to reach her since. "That is harrowing to realize that you're just going to have to put up with the abuses in Mexico and just kind of continue to take it because if you don't, then you could forever hurt yourself in the long term," the lawyer said. Photos: Migrants rush across US border in final hours before pandemic rule expires ELDORA A man wanted in connection with the death of a woman in Eldora has been captured in Arizona and charged with first-degree murder. Nathan Cole Bahr, 28, of Iowa Falls, was arrested Monday by the Gilbert Police Department in Maricopa County, Arizona, following a weekend manhunt after authorities allege he shot and killed Desiree Dawn Folsom, 25, of Iowa Falls. Police Chief Nick Hassebrock said Bahr was believed to have previously been involved in a romantic relationship with Folsom. Court records show she had been granted a protective order related to domestic abuse. The body was found at 5:45 a.m. Friday inside the residence at 1401 17th Ave. in Eldora. Bahr had been labeled as armed and dangerous in the departments public notice seeking help locating him. Hassebrock said a license plate reader and other intelligence contributed to the arrest. Bond was set at $250,000. No other subjects are believed to have been involved in the alleged murder and the public is not believed to be in any danger. Bahr had been driving a 2020 gray Toyota Camry with an Iowa blackout license plate that initially read as EMRGLL and later was changed to KHA681, said Hassebrock. Authorities ask anyone with additional information to contact the Hardin County Sheriffs Office at (641) 939-8189 or another local law enforcement agency as the homicide investigation continues. Photos: Memorial Day Parade, Ceremony 2023 052923jr-memorial-day-1 052923jr-memorial-day-2 052923jr-memorial-day-3 052923jr-memorial-day-4 052923jr-memorial-day-5 052923jr-memorial-day-6 052923jr-memorial-day-7 052923jr-memorial-day-8 052923jr-memorial-day-9 052923jr-memorial-day-10 052923jr-memorial-day-11 052923jr-memorial-day-12 052923jr-memorial-day-14 052923jr-memorial-day-15 IOWA CITY A Saturday night crash in Iowa City left a former Waterloo woman dead and three teenagers injured. A crash report from the Iowa State Patrol states Kesan Ford and Elijah Seals, both 17-year-olds from Iowa City, did not stop at an intersection at East Court Street and South Seventh Avenue and hit Jennifer Russells car. Russell was transported to the University of Iowa Hospitals and pronounced dead. She was 22 years old. Ford, Seals and another 17-year-old passenger were also transported the hospital with injuries. An obituary from Locke Funeral Services said Russell graduated from Waterloo West High School in 2019 and worked as a manager at Jethros BBQ in Iowa City. A GoFundMe fundraiser was set up for Russells family. The $10,000 goal has already been reached. Jenn had the kindest heart and beautiful soul, a ready smile, fiercely loyal and hardworking, the GoFundMe page stated. Jenn was someone who radiated joy to all who met her. WATERLOO Every Memorial Day, officials read the names of veterans who have passed away since the last Memorial Day. And in recent years, the roll call is getting longer, Craig White, a Vietnam veteran and chair of the Memorial Hall Commission, told the crowd during the annual ceremony in downtown Waterloo on Monday. As I grow older, the list seems to grow, White said. The crowd sat in silence as White recounted some 276 veterans one-by-one reading the first name, last name, military branch, sometimes a nickname who died over the past year. Veterans are important because they teach patriotism to next generation, White said. Keynote speaker, Brigadier General Roland Albrecht said it is important that the memories of the veterans live on though they are gone. The story of the fallen matters and needs to be told by sharing their stories, Albrecht said. Lets carry their sacrifices with us in our heart and strive in honor of their memories by doing good Duty, honor, country. They lived for it, they died for it, and as a nation we must remember and remind ourselves of the future they fought for and do our best to live up to those values. Albrecht served in the U.S. Navy on an aircraft carrier during Vietnam and later joined the U.S. Army. Memorial Day began 155 years ago as Decoration Day, a holiday to beautify graves of those who died in the Civil War. Photos: Memorial Day Parade, Ceremony 2023 052923jr-memorial-day-1 052923jr-memorial-day-2 052923jr-memorial-day-3 052923jr-memorial-day-4 052923jr-memorial-day-5 052923jr-memorial-day-6 052923jr-memorial-day-7 052923jr-memorial-day-8 052923jr-memorial-day-9 052923jr-memorial-day-10 052923jr-memorial-day-11 052923jr-memorial-day-12 052923jr-memorial-day-14 052923jr-memorial-day-15 KHARKIV, Ukraine There is activity at the Kharkiv Institute of Physics and Technology, but it's not what scientists at its cutting-edge nuclear laboratory trained for. Staff at the U.S.-funded atomic research lab in northeastern Ukraine spend their days patching up the facility, which has been badly damaged by repeated Russian strikes. More than a year after missiles first hit, the wind batters boarded-up windows and exposed insulation flaps. When the Associated Press visited last month, debris was heaped in piles, and rocket parts sat near craters up to 8 feet deep. Staff said the site was struck some 100 times with rockets and bombs during the first months of the war, and attack remains a constant threat. Kharkiv, near the war's front line and the Russian border, is shelled almost daily from the neighboring Belgorod region of Russia. Before Russia's invasion, the institute was a jewel in the crown of Ukraine's highly developed nuclear research sector. Its experimental reactor had opened only six months earlier, designed to offer training and research facilities and to make medical isotopes used in cancer treatment. While those fearing a nuclear accident focused their attention on Ukraine's huge Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which is under Russian control, the Kharkiv lab's small reactor also poses a risk, though so far there have been no leaks. Mykola Shulga, general director of the institute's National Science Center, said the damage is "significant but we are doing repairs on our own." "The strikes on this installation were intentional," Shulga said, in front of a modern gray building whose panels have been ripped off or are pocked with shrapnel holes. "This wall here was hit with seven missiles." The International Atomic Energy Agency also accused Russia of "sustained targeting" of the research lab. A delegation from the agency visited in November and found almost all buildings on the site were damaged, "many of them probably beyond repair." IAEA chief Rafael Mariano Grossi called the extent of the damage "shocking" and worse than expected. The one positive note, IAEA inspectors said, was that there was no release of radiation from the lab's small experimental reactor. Ukraine's nuclear inspectorate said shelling last year damaged the facility's heating, cooling and ventilation systems. An electrical substation and diesel generators were destroyed, leaving the site without electricity for a time. The Prosecutor's Office and the Security Service of Ukraine opened criminal cases for alleged war crimes and "ecocide" one of several proceedings accusing Russia of environmental destruction. "Here, you see. It used to be control panel. Most certainly it's of no use anymore," said Galyna Tolstolutska, head of the department of radiation damage and radiation materials science, looking around a room of equipment wrecked when the ceiling was shattered by a bomb. "This entire place was exposed to rain, snow, anything." In communist times, the Kharkiv facility's research helped develop nuclear weapons, making it a Soviet equivalent of Los Alamos in the United States. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, the U.S. agreed to fund Ukrainian nuclear research in exchange for Ukraine getting rid of its stockpiles of nuclear bomb-making material. The U.S. government says the Kharkiv nuclear facility, built in collaboration with the Argonne National Laboratory near Chicago, is the first of its kind in the world, "designed to produce medical isotopes, train nuclear professionals, support the Ukrainian nuclear industry and provide experimental capabilities for performing reactor physics, materials, and basic science research." It started operation in August 2021. Russia's invasion reawakened Europe's fear of nuclear war, and nuclear accident. Fighting has erupted intermittently around Zaporizhzhia, Europe's largest nuclear power plant, sparking fears of a catastrophic radiation leak like the disaster at Chernobyl in northern Ukraine, where a reactor exploded in 1986, sending radiation over a vast area. Kharkiv does not pose the same level of risk. The Kharkiv reactor was put into a "deep subcritical state" essentially sent into hibernation on the first day of the war, and it contains far less nuclear fuel than a power plant. Paddy Regan, professor of nuclear physics at the University of Surrey, said research reactors are typically 100 times smaller than civilian nuclear power reactors. "These accelerator-driven systems are nothing like civilian nuclear reactors," Regan said. "They're futuristic design ideas" aimed at creating "an inherently safe reactor system" without the potential for meltdowns of existing power reactors. "There's much more danger from the bombs than from any radiation material," Regan said. Still, the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine warned of potential "severe radiation consequences and contamination of the surrounding territories," should the reactor be damaged. Institute staff say radiation could spread for 6 miles, covering an area home to 640,000 people. Timeline: A look at key moments in a year of war between Russia and Ukraine A month-by-month timeline of the war in Ukraine The war in Ukraine that began a year ago has killed thousands, forced millions to flee their homes, reduced entire cities to rubble and has fueled fears the confrontation could slide into an open conflict between Russia and NATO. A look at some of the main events in the conflict. Feb. 24, 2022: Russia invades Ukraine March 2, 2022: Russia takes Kherson, gets stuck near Kyiv March 29, 2022: Russia withdraws from Kyiv, shifts focus east April 2022: Mass graves discovered in Bucha April 9, 2022: Russia strikes train station, killing 52 civilians April 13, 2022: Ukraine sinks Russian missile cruiser May 16, 2022: Ukraine defenders surrender key steel mill May 18, 2022: Finland, Sweden apply for NATO membership June 2022: Western weapons flow into Ukraine June 30, 2022: Russian troops pull back from Snake Island July 22, 2022: Deal struck on grain exports July 29, 2022: 53 killed in missile strike on prison Aug. 9, 2022: Ukraine strikes air base in Crimea Aug. 20, 2022: Daughter of Russian ideologist killed in car bombing Sept. 6, 2022: Ukraine counteroffensive retakes parts of Kharkiv region Sept. 21, 2022: Putin orders mobilization of reservists, stages illegal "referendums" Sept. 30, 2022: Putin claims annexation of 4 regions October 2022: Bridge linking Crimea and Russia attacked November 2022: Russia retreats from Kherson Dec. 5, 2022: Ukraine uses drones to hit Russian targets Dec. 21, 2022: Zelenskyy visits US Jan. 1, 2023: Ukraine kills scores of freshly mobilized Russian soldiers Jan. 12, 2023: Russia claims capture of Soledar Jan. 14, 2023: Russian strike kills 45 in apartment building Feb. 20, 2023: Biden makes surprise visit to Kyiv Iowa families can begin signing up starting at 8 a.m. Wednesday for a new state-funded private school financial assistance program. The program, signed into law by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds in January, will be phased in over four years until all K-12 students in Iowa will be eligible for roughly $7,600 per year in public funding to put toward private school tuition or other private school expenses. The program is expected to cost $107 million in the first year and $345 million by 2027, when fully implemented. In total, over the course of four years, the program would cost the state an estimated $879 million. A New York-based company, Odyssey, that administers similar programs in other states has been contracted by Iowa to operate the program. For the first academic year, applications for the new Students First Education Savings Accounts will be accepted through June 30. The legislation was approved this year with only Republican support. Supporters said the program will provide greater choice for families in their childs education. Democrats and critics say it will divert state funding from public schools and will disproportionately benefit higher-income families. Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand, a Democrat, has bemoaned a lack of accountability and transparency over how the taxpayer dollars are spent by private schools, which must be accredited by the Iowa Department of Education. How do I apply? Parents and guardians can access the application on the Iowa Department of Educations ESA website at educateiowa.gov. The link redirects them to the Students First ESA platform managed by Odyssey. Applications are in English or Spanish. At this point in the process, parents and guardians will not be asked to provide a name for an accredited private school. After applications are approved, they will be asked to supply that specific information starting July 15. Parents or guardians who choose to enroll their children in an accredited non-public school will receive an amount equal to the per-pupil funding allocated to public school districts for each eligible child. The per-pupil funding for the 2023-24 school year will be $7,635. Half of the money will be available to pay tuition and approved expenses for the fall semester and the remaining half will be available for the spring semester. Funds will be deposited into an education savings account to be used for tuition, fees and other qualified expenses. The money cannot be used to pay preschool tuition. ESA funds must be used for kindergarten through 12th grade education at an accredited private school in Iowa. That includes an online private school, provided the student is enrolled full-time and the school is accredited through the state. Which Iowa students are eligible? All incoming kindergartners and all K-12 students currently attending a public school who choose to enroll in an accredited non-public school for the 2023-24 school year are eligible for the ESA program, regardless of income. Students who attended an accredited non-public school at any time this school year are eligible for the 2023-24 school year, if their household income is at or below 300 percent of the 2023 federal poverty level ($90,000 for a family of four). Income eligibility will be automatically verified during the application process using the parents or guardians 2022 Iowa state tax return. If a parent or guardian did not file a 2022 state tax return, other documentation will be required to complete the application. Income requirements will be phased out: Year one (2023-24) All incoming kindergarten students All public school students Private school students at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty level Year two (2024-25) All incoming kindergarten students All public school students Private school students at or below 400 percent of the federal poverty level that will be updated January 2024 Year three (2025-26) All K-12 students in Iowa, regardless of income What about home-school students? Are they eligible? Yes, so long as they are to become a full-time student at an accredited non-public school. There are no income restrictions. What information do I have to provide? Parents and guardians applying will need the following information: Parent or guardian legal name, current address, Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number and contact information (email address and phone number that can receive text messages for updates) and preferred language (English or Spanish) Address used for the 2022 Iowa state tax return, if different from current address Spouses Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number Students legal name, date of birth and address, if different from the parent or guardians address A parent or guardian must also check boxes acknowledging: They must follow state laws and administrative rules governing the program By participating their student is required to take all applicable state and federally required students assessments, and results submitted to the Iowa Department of Education They authorize the Iowa Department of Revenue to release tax information to the Iowa Department of Education They consent to sharing financial and personally identifiable information from student records with any individual or organization necessary for participation in the program, with the understanding such information will be kept private and protected and not released without consent, unless required under applicable state or federal law What information will be used to verify residency? Residency will be verified using the parent or guardians 2022 Iowa tax return. If they did not file a state tax return, they will need a current Iowa drivers license or a copy of their current mortgage, lease or utility bill, plus one of the following: Iowa voter registration card Claim of a homestead tax credit or military tax exemption on an Iowa home Active checking or savings account with an Iowa address Other related documents and correspondence with an Iowa address during the tax period A signed, written statement from a parent or guardian claiming Iowa residency and related documents with an Iowa address What if I have more than one child who is eligible? Only one application per family is needed. What can the money be used for? The educational savings accounts must first be used to pay for tuition and fees. Any remaining funds can be used for other eligible expenses, like textbooks, computers, software or tutoring sessions. Odyssey will host a marketplace that will serve as the only eligible place for Iowa families to spend ESA funding on those other eligible expenses. Any purchases made outside Odysseys marketplace will not be eligible for reimbursement, a company official said during a webinar last week. Money cannot be used on clothing, school supplies, child care or transportation costs. How long will it take to know if Ive been approved? Applications that are able to be verified through state tax return data should receive a response within 30 minutes of completion, according to the Iowa Department of Education. Applications that require additional documentation verification or manual review will take more time. When will I receive money? Funds will be available starting July 15, or 30 days after the application is verified and approved, whichever is later. If my student is eligible for an ESA for 2023, will I need to apply next year? Any student who is approved for an ESA and remains an Iowa resident is automatically eligible for funding for following school year, but still will need to submit an application through the Odyssey platform. If ESA funding is more than tuition and fees, can I use the remaining funds to pay tuition and fees for another child? No. ESA funding is specific to the individual student. ESA funds from one account may not be used to pay for costs related to another student. Where can I learn more? Parents and guardians can find answers to frequently asked questions about the application process, eligibility and more on the Iowa Department of Educations ESA website. Technical support will be available from Odyssey representatives by calling 515-368-9564 or emailing help.ia@withodyssey.com. Families can also watch an application training webinar and view a PowerPoint presentation for families in English and Spanish. Parents and guardians can also email studentsfirst@iowa.gov or call 515-954-5652 for more information. Photos and video: Iowa legislators pass governor's private-school funding bill Twitter's value is now only worth one-third of what Elon Musk paid when he bought the social media giant for $44 billion last year. Since Musk took over Twitter, its value persistently plummeted. And now, a new valuation report says it has gotten worse. Twitter's Value: Elon Musk's Investment Now Only Worth a Third Twitter, the renowned social media service, has experienced a significant drop in value, according to Bloomberg. The billionaire entrepreneur, Musk, known for his ambitious ventures like Tesla and SpaceX, is feeling the heat as the value of his investment drastically plummets. Fidelity, one of the largest investment management firms, says the social network is now only worth roughly one-third of its original purchase price. The tech billionaire purchased the social network for a whopping $44 billion last October as he took over the giant firm. But this time, Axios reports that Fidelity has marked down the value of Twitter in its latest monthly report. Its value is now only about $15 billion. Bloomberg did the math. And it turns out that the current value of the Blue Bird is roughly 33 percent lower than Musk's purchase price last year. In other words, it is only worth a third of what he paid for. It is worth noting, though, that the Fidelity report only covers the month of April. It remains to be seen if the plummeting value reverses or slows down in May since Musk made a huge announcement this month. The Chief Twit surprisingly confirmed that a new Chief Executive Officer is entering the picture as Linda Yaccarino takes his spot. She used to be the NBCUniversal Advertising Sales Chair before joining the giant social network. Read Also: Elon Musk's Neuralink Gets FDA Approval for Brain Implant Study Elon Musk and Twitter With a bold and visionary approach, Musk has revolutionized industries like electric vehicles (EVs) and space exploration. But despite that, his foray into the world of social media seems to have hit a stumbling block. The reasons behind Twitter's fall from grace are still up for debate, but speculation abounds. As per Gizmodo, Musk's takeover led to losing roughly half of the biggest advertisers on Twitter. A bulk of them have yet to make their comeback. So to make up for it, the billionaire ramps up its subscription-based offering, Twitter Blue, by making it more enticing for users. He started selling the once highly coveted blue checkmarks. And on top of that, the service also started providing exclusive features, including posting longer tweets and uploading longer videos. Related Article: Elon Musk Slams Work From Home Setup, Calls it 'Morally Wrong' @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Question: You have already spoken about the situation in Ukraine. We see that the West has taken a consistent course to increase the supply of weapons to the Kyiv regime. At the same time, calls for the extermination of Russians, the extermination of the civilian population in Russia, are becoming more and more active among the Western elites. How do you inform about this and do you inform your African partners, especially since the whole situation is already close to the scale of genocide? Sergey Lavrov: We talked about this in detail today. There is no doubt that the Kiev regime has long since switched to openly terrorist methods . For this, weapons are used, with which the West pumps this regime. Western statements that the supplied weapons should not be used against the Russian Federation are another lie. As for the threats against the Russians, we also told our friends today about how we assess this situation. Threats to kill Russians were made by many representatives of the Kyiv regime, including Secretary of the Security Council A.M. Danilov, adviser to the head of administration V.A. Zelensky M.M. Podolyak, several Ukrainian ambassadors abroad. Now one of the American senators has opened up on this subject. Since the West insists that there is no other basis for resolving the Ukrainian situation, except for the notorious peace formula of V.A.Zelensky, and at the same time his team threatens to start killing all Russians and destroy everything Russian there after liberating Crimea and the eastern regions of Ukraine. The conclusion is simple: the West directly supports the genocide. To a certain extent, this is a qualitatively new development of the situation, when the West first became a direct participant in the war unleashed against the Russian Federation, and now it is also calling for genocide. It is always better to know the truth about who is up to what with you. We found out this truth a long time ago . Lets proceed from the fact that the West takes just such a position. We understand that against this background, the ideas expressed by the countries of the Global Majority, including African countries, that they would like to contribute to the search for some ways to overcome this situation, are voiced sincerely, out of a desire to somehow help. We appreciate this attitude. But it is necessary to consider all these ideas and initiatives in the context of the geopolitical confrontation started by the West against Russia, and at the same time against China, as it was recently proclaimed in the G-7 documents. WtR Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (30 May 2023) During the day, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation carried out group strikes using long-range precision air-based weapons against central decision-making points where terrorist attacks against Russian territory were being planned under the guidance of Western intelligence experts. All the assigned targets have been engaged. In Kupyansk direction, the Zapad Group of Forces has hit the units of the enemy close to Timkovka (Kharkov region) and Novoselovskoye (Lugansk Peoples Republic). In addition, actions of one sabotage and reconnaissance group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been thwarted near Sinkovka (Kharkov region). The enemys losses amounted to up to 40 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system during the day. One U.S.-manufactured AN/TPQ-50 counterbattery warfare radar has been destroyed near Moskovka (Kharkov region). In Krasny Liman direction, Army Aviation and artillery of the Tsentr Group of Forces engaged the units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Chervonaya Dibrova, Kuzmino (Lugansk Peoples Republic), and Yampolovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Over 85 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, two pick-up trucks, one D-20 howitzer, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery unit have been eliminated in this direction during the day. In Donetsk direction, Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, units, and artillery of the Yug Group of Forces have eliminated up to 145 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, and one D-30 howitzer during the day. An ammunition depot of the 54th Mechanised Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces has been hit close to Krasnoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). In South Donetsk and Zaporozhye directions, aviation and artillery of the Vostok Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on the AFU units close to Velikaya Novosyolka and Vremevka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). One sabotage and reconnaissance group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has been neutralised close to Vladimirovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Over 40 Ukrainian military and four motor vehicles were hit in these directions over the past 24 hours. In Kherson direction, up to 30 Ukrainian troops, five motor vehicles, and one Akatsiya self-propelled artillery system, and D-30 and Msta-B howitzers have been eliminated over the past 24 hours. Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, and artillery of the Russian Group of Forces have engaged 88 AFU artillery units, manpower and hardware in 96 areas during the day. Air defence forces shot down seven HIMARS MLRS shells and one HARM anti-radiation missile during the day. In addition, eight Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were obliterated in the areas of Inzhenernoye (Zaporozhye region), Staromayorskoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic), Kolomyichikha (Lugansk Peoples Republic), and Veliky Vyselok and Petrovskoye (Kharkov region). In total, 429 airplanes and 235 helicopters, 4,379 unmanned aerial vehicles, 424 air defence missile systems, 9,328 tanks and other armoured combat vehicles, 1,100 combat vehicles equipped with MRLS, 4,941 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 10,544 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation. WtR Read full text @mod_russia_en First, about the progress of the special military operation. The Russian troops continue to inflict effective fire damage on the enemy. This month alone, the enemy has lost over 16,000 troops, 16 aircraft, five helicopters, 466 drones, over 400 tanks, and other armored fighting vehicles, and 238 pieces of field artillery and mortars. In addition, 196 HIMARS rockets, 16 HARM missiles, and 29 Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles have been intercepted and destroyed. Despite the AFUs significant losses, Western supervisors continue to encourage the Kiev regime to launch a large-scale offensive. Ukraine is receiving more hardware and weapons. We monitor supply volumes and routes and strike when identified. Large Western arms depots in Khmelnitsky, Ternopol, and Nikolayev have been destroyed in recent days, as well as U.S. Patriot anti-aircraft missile system in Kiev. Military support provided to Ukraine only prolongs hostilities, but cannot influence the outcome of the special military operation. Kiev authorities continue to destroy social facilities and carry out terrorist acts against Russian civilians using NATO weapons. The Russian Armed Forces are responding as forcefully as possible to the activities of Ukrainian militants. On 22 May 2023, more than 70 Ukrainian saboteurs, motor and armoured vehicles were neutralised during a counter-terrorist operation in Belgorod region. The nationalist remnants were pushed back into Ukrainian territory, where they were shot at. The Kiev regime has carried out a terrorist attack in Moscow region this morning. I note, on civilian facilities. It involved eight aircraft-type drones. All of them have been downed. In Moscow, three drones were suppressed by electronic warfare, lost control, and deviated from their intended targets. Another five UAVs were shot down in the suburbs of Moscow by the Pantsir surface-to-air missile system. *** Id want to point out that Russian servicemen are acting selflessly and firmly during the special military operation, displaying mass heroism, perseverance, and courage. The 155th Marine Brigade was awarded the Order of Zhukov by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The 291st Artillery Brigade, the 55th Separate Sevastopol Helicopter Regiment decorated with the Order of Kutuzov and the 50th Self-Propelled Artillery Regiment were given the honorary titles Guards. Id like to specifically recognise military medics, who frequently sacrifice their lives to save our military personnel and help civilians. More than 75% of the medical personnel have combat experience in the special military operation. By Presidential Decree, the Vishnevsky Central Military Clinical Hospital was awarded the Order of Aleksandr Nevsky. Congratulations to our colleagues. Previously, the Kirov Military Medical Academy was awarded the Order of Aleksandr Nevsky. *** Let us go further through the agenda. The first of June marks the beginning of the summer training period in the Russian Armed Forces. It was preceded by thorough preparatory work. There were over 2,500 events. During the training period, the primary focus will be on people and command and control bodies, as well as combat cohesion of newly established formations and units. A variety of exercises are planned to be organised. A joint exercise with CSTO peacekeeping forces, as well as a joint counter-terrorism exercise within the framework of ADMM Plus, will receive special emphasis. The planned actions will assure the Armed Forces required degree of readiness, the completion of responsibilities to preserve national interests, and an effective response to changes in the military and political situation. *** Next, we shall discuss the thematic part of our session. Let us first review how the United Shipbuilding Corporation is repairing and modernising the heavy nuclear-powered missile cruiser Admiral Nakhimov within the framework of the state defence order. The Corporation is building and repairing 62 ships for the Navy. The corvette Mercury entered the service with the Navy on 13 May 2023. Work on five submarines and six surface ships is in its final stages. The modernisation of the missile cruiser Admiral Nakhimov involves equipping it with the latest state-of-the-art equipment, high-precision long-range weapons, including hypersonic Tsirkon missiles. Sea trials for the ship are scheduled at the end of 2023. Once commissioned, the cruiser will continue to perform missions as part of the Northern Fleet. Today, we will outline the measures that will enable the modernisation of the cruiser to be completed by the end of 2024. *** The meeting will also address the topic of military flight safety. The special military operation improves the way aircraft are used. New equipment and means of destruction are being mastered. A frequently changing environment and the enemys use of various Western-made weapons require Russia to respond swiftly to emerging threats. In this regard, we are introducing new approaches to training of aviation personnel, incorporating combat experience into the training process, and improving the criteria for evaluating combat training and flight safety activities. In the first half of this year, these steps enabled us to practically eliminate accidents caused by the so-called human factor. Work on commissioning an innovative system for collecting, processing, and sharing information about aviation occurrences is still underway. We plan to include federal executive authorities with state-owned aircraft in operation in it in the near future. Today, we will summarise the safety performance in the first half of the year and outline actions to reduce aircraft accidents. WtR What an great quote In our states, both in the Russian Federation and in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, we do not accept attempts from outside to bring some specific Western values to our countries. They may soon marry animals, but this does not mean that we should follow their principles. There, probably, someone is already grunting in anticipation. Nevertheless, both the Saudis and the Russians have an unequivocal position of preserving our traditional values, said Russian Minister of Internal Affairs Vladimir Kolokoltsev following his visit to Saudi Arabia The Winona Area Public Schools Board will chose its next superintendent after interviewing the two final candidates on Wednesday, May 31, at the Winona Senior High School Learning Commons. The interviews are open to the public but will not be live streamed. After interviewing four candidates Thursday, May 25, the district named St. Charles Public Schools Principal Bradley Berzinski and Rochester Public Schools Principal Angi McAndrews as finalists. When creating a leadership profile in April the board opted to not include superintendent experience as a requirement or preference. The majority parents and guardians responding to the districts stakeholder survey also chose that superintendent experience is not required for the incoming superintendent. Parents and guardians comprised the largest group of survey respondents. During this second round of interviews, staff representatives will have the opportunity to provide anonymous feedback. After the interviews the board will select a lone finalist and begin contract negotiations. The board is expected to approve the new superintendents employment contract at the June 8 board meeting. The start date for the new superintendent is slated for July 1. Current Superintendent Dr. Annette Freiheit announced her resignation in April with intent to retire two days after voters rejected a $94 million facilities referendum. A 10-year-old doe at a Sauk County deer farm has tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD). The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) confirmed that the deer was infected. Samples were sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa, where the results came back as positive. The 22-acre deer farm has been placed under quarantine, where it will remain while DATCP and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) veterinarians and staff conduct an epidemiological investigation. Two weeks ago, a deer farm in Dodge County also had a confirmed case of CWD. A 9-year-old doe tested positive on the 8-acre farm. The quarantine means that no live animals, nor whole carcasses, are allowed to be removed from the property until authorities deem it safe to do so. Chronic wasting disease is a fatal, infectious nervous system disease that affects deer, elk, moose, and reindeer. There are no treatments or vaccines. CWD is fatal to the infected animal. There have been no reported cases of CWD infecting humans. The Wisconsin DNR began monitoring CWD in native white-tail deer populations in 1999. The first positives were found in 2002. In 2022, according to Wisconsin DNR data, 1,492 deer, out of 17,197 tested, tested positive for CWD. The counties in Wisconsin with the most confirmed cases were Richland County (375 infected), Iowa County (264), Sauk County (228), and Dane County (198). The Wisconsin DNR suggests contacting them if a sick or dead deer is found, or multiple dead deer in the same area; however, do not report a deer killed on or near a roadway. Email dnrwildlifeswitchboard@wisconsin.gov or call 608-267-0866. Solar power is spreading in southern Wisconsin, and Juneau County is getting in on the alternative energy source. Three area energy companies OneEnergy Renewables, Oakdale Electric Cooperative, and SolarShare WI Cooperative have combined to break ground on two solar projects near the countys two largest municipalities, Mauston and New Lisbon. According to a release from SolarShare Director Cory Neeley, the Webster Creek Solar Farm and Lemonweir Solar Farm are projected to produce over 9 million kilowatt hours a year for Oakdale Electric and its members. OneEnergy is proud to be partnering with SolarShare and Oakdale Electric Cooperative on these projects to provide cost-effective and reliable solar power to the rural communities of Juneau County, said Eric Udelhofen, Vice President of Development with OneEnergy, in an email. We hope that these projects will be the start of a movement to democratize investment in the renewable energy sector in the state. The two projects comprise a rural investment of over $6 million. Udelhofen said that Webster Creek and Lemonweir are two of 10 projects that OneEnergy is building across western Wisconsin. Planning for the solar farms began in late 2021 and Udelhofen expects them to be completed and active by November. Chris Tackmann, General Manager and CEO of Oakdale, said in the release that the upcoming solar plants will not only provide cost-effective, environmentally friendly energy, but will also provide lower rates for customers via Power Purchase Agreements. Power Purchase Agreements, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, are agreements in which developers install, own, and operate energy systems on customer properties. PPAs are used primarily for renewable energy, but can also be applied to combine heat and power supply. Webster Creek and Lemonweir will not only supply power, but will also hopefully benefit crop growth in their areas, according to Udelhofen. He is hoping for OneEnergy to partner with a beekeeper in the Webster Creek area, as the panels will be planted to a seed mix designed to provide forage for honeybees. Both projects will be planted to a pollinator meadow, which is a large area of plants designed to attract pollinating insects and be dense enough to deter weed growth. We are excited to begin our journey working with another cooperative, Oakdale Electric Cooperative, who like us, shares the belief that cooperatives can be innovators and solve problems for people while creating positive financial impacts for everyday Wisconsin folks, said Neeley in the release. SolarShare was formed in 2021 by RENEW Wisconsin, a nonprofit focused on renewable energy sources, with grant funding from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. More than 80 individual and business members of SolarShare invested in the land for the projects. Those investors will earn revenue from project land leases by SolarShare. President Joe Biden's sexual assault accuser, Tara Reada, has left the US to defect to Russia. The former Senate aide, Reade, announced her move to Russia in an interview with Sputnik, a Russian media outfit highly supportive of President Vladimir Putin. Joe Biden's Sexual Assault Accuser Defects to Russia According to Newsweek, Reade was Biden's aide in the 1990s when the latter was still a US Senator for Delaware. But in 2020, as Biden was running for President, she filed a criminal case, accusing the Democrat leader of sexually assaulting her. Her complaint at the Washington Metropolitan Police Department filed last April 2020 accuses Biden of pushing her against a wall in a Senate corridor in 1993. Reade further claims that the current US President penetrated her using his fingers. And this time, Tara Reade, the woman who accused Biden of sexual assault during his 2020 campaign, has reportedly defected to Russia, seeking safety and refuge. The former Senate aide, now 59 years old, showed up at a press conference in Russia alongside Maria Butina. As per The Guardian, the latter is a convicted Russian agent who was arrested and jailed in the US. She now sits as a member of the Russian parliament. Reade speaks up, saying that her defection to Russia makes her feel safe and protected. Biden's accuser recently teased testifying to the US House Republicans. But instead of doing so, she left the US to fly to the Russian country. She says, "I felt that while [the 2024] election is gearing up and there's so much at stake, I'm almost better off here and just being safe." The former Senate aide plans to seek Russian citizenship as she seeks refuge there. She disclosed in the press conference that she would "like to apply for citizenship in Russia from the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin." However, she still wants to keep her US citizenship moving forward. Read Also: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to Hold Talks with President Biden Next Week Biden Denies Sexual Assault Allegations Daily Beast reports that Biden has "unequivocally" denied the allegations hurled against him during his 2020 presidential campaign. He dismissed the accusations that he sexually assaulted his former aide while still a Delaware Senator. The news outlet points out that Reade has long been a Putin supporter since 2019. In the same press conference, Biden's accuser also addressed Russians amid the Ukraine war as the Biden administration has extended a helping hand to the latter amid the invasion. Reade says, "I'm sorry right now that American elites are choosing such an aggressive stance. Just know that most American citizens want to be friends and hope we can have unity again." Related Article: Joe Biden Criminal Bribery Claims: FBI Refuses To Share Documents That Will Prove Republicans' Accusations @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Authorities said they are investigating the death of a man who was found unresponsive at a Richland County campground on Thursday morning. At about 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Cazenovia EMS was sent to Bunker Hill Campground, 30858 Highway I, for an unresponsive male who was found to be dead, the Richland County Sheriffs Office said in a statement. The investigation determined that there were suspicious circumstances involving the death and the Sheriffs Office said it requested help from the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, Wisconsin State Crime Lab, Wisconsin State Patrol and Richland Center Police Department. There is no danger to the public and more information will be released as soon as possible, the Sheriffs Office said. The cities with the most break-ins and burglaries Cities With the Most Break-Ins / Burglaries Over the past decade burglary and larceny rates have declined Daytime break-ins of homes are most common Southern states experience the most property crime Small and midsize cities with the most burglaries 15. Dallas, TX 14. Houston, TX 13. Las Vegas, NV 12. Columbus, OH 11. Minneapolis, MN 10. Milwaukee, WI 9. Wichita, KS 8. Kansas City, MO 7. Oklahoma City, OK 6. Bakersfield, CA 5. Seattle, WA 4. Baltimore, MD 3. Detroit, MI 2. Tulsa, OK 1. Memphis, TN Weather Alert ...SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS RETURN THIS WEEK... * Scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms will develop each afternoon this week. Storms will be capable of producing frequent cloud to ground lightning, gusty outflow winds, small hail, and heavy rainfall. * If you have events or recreation outdoors this week, be sure to have a storm safety plan. A top priority should be a way to quickly seek shelter in the event that a thunderstorm forms nearby. If a sturdy building is not immediately available, a hard-top vehicle with the windows rolled up is a good option for protection from lightning. If possible, consider completing outdoor activities (hiking, biking, etc) in the morning before afternoon/evening thunderstorms develop. * Streams and mainstem rivers continue to flow fast and cold. Avoid recreating near fast-running and nearly full waterways. Daily showers/thunderstorms will increase the threat of flash flooding. Have a way to receive weather alerts! Get to higher ground immediately if a nearby river or stream rises quickly, if there is debris in the water, or if the water suddenly becomes muddy. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form President Biden looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of the United Kingdom for an Official Working Visit to the White House on Thursday, June 8 to further deepen the close and historic partnership between the United States and the United Kingdom. READ NEXT: Statement from President Joe Biden Sending Warm Wishes on the Occasion of President Tinubu's Inauguration in Nigeria Building on their recent engagements, the two leaders will review a range of global issues, including their steadfast support for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia's brutal war of aggression, as well as further action to bolster energy security and address the climate crisis. The President and the Prime Minister will discuss efforts to continue strengthening our economic relationship as we confront shared economic and national security challenges. They will also review developments in Northern Ireland as part of their shared commitment to preserving the gains of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement. READ MORE: Statement from President Joe Biden on the Enactment of Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Act @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. loading......... Malibu, CA, May 31, 2023 AEST (ABN Newswire) - In this segment of The Ellis Martin Report we speak with Jordan Trimble, the CEO of Skyharbour Resources Ltd ( CVE:SYH ) ( SYHBF:OTCMKTS ) as the company continues to prove out its project generator model with the signing of an option agreement with North Shore Energy Metals for the South Falcon Uranium Property in Canada's Athabasca Basin. We also review the macro view of the uranium sector including the metal and the equities. To Listen to the Interview, please visit: https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/O641F824 About Skyharbour Resources Ltd. Skyharbour Resources (CVE:SYH) (OTCMKTS:SYHBF) holds an extensive portfolio of uranium and thorium exploration projects in Canada's Athabasca Basin and is well positioned to benefit from improving uranium market fundamentals with six drill-ready projects. In July 2016, Skyharbour acquired an option from Denison Mines, a large strategic shareholder of the Company, to acquire 100% of the Moore Uranium Project which is located approximately 15 kilometres east of Denison's Wheeler River project and 39 kilometres south of Cameco's McArthur River uranium mine. Moore is an advanced stage uranium exploration project with high grade uranium mineralization at the Maverick Zone. Drill results have returned up to 6.0% U3O8 over 5.9 metres, including 20.8% U3O8 over 1.5 metres at a vertical depth of 265 metres. Skyharbour has signed option agreements with Orano Canada Inc. and Azincourt Energy whereby Orano and Azincourt can earn in up to 70% of specific segments of the Preston Project through a combined $9,800,000 in total exploration expenditures, as well as $1,700,000 in total cash payments and Azincourt shares. Preston is a large, geologically prospective property proximal to Fission Uranium's Triple R deposit as well as NexGen Energy's Arrow deposit. The Company also owns a 100% interest in the Falcon Point Uranium Project which hosts a high-grade surface showing with up to 68% U3O8 in grab samples from a massive pitchblende vein, the source of which has yet to be discovered. The Company's 100% owned Mann Lake Uranium project on the east side of the Basin is strategically located adjacent to the Mann Lake Joint Venture operated by Cameco, where high-grade uranium mineralization has been identified. Skyharbour's goal is to maximize shareholder value through new mineral discoveries, committed long-term partnerships, and the advancement of exploration projects in geopolitically favourable jurisdictions. About The Ellis Martin Report The Ellis Martin Report (TEMR) is an internet based radio program showcasing potentially undervalued companies to an audience of potential retail investors and fund managers that comprise our listening audience. TEMR is broadcasted on the VoiceAmerica Business Channel and The Opportunity Radio Network. CEO and company interviews are paid for by those represented on the program. Los Alamos-based Ubiquitous Quantum Dots, or UbiQD, trampled the competition at this years cleantech Industry Growth Forum May 1-3 in Colorado, earning the top honor as Best Overall Venture at the event. Thats a huge achievement for UbiQD (pronounced ubiquity), a local startup that launched in 2014 with a new process for making quantum dots that its now applying to breakthrough innovations in agriculture, clean energy and security applications. UbiQD has turned the nanoscale, three-dimensional structures which measure about 10,000 times smaller than a human hair into sunlight-harvesting machines to make solar-generating windows, plastic row covers that accelerate greenhouse plant growth, and a new type of security ink to protect official documents against counterfeiting. The companys driving mission is to convert its quantum dots into a ubiquitous foundation for broad applications in the sustainable and cleantech arenas, something judges unanimously praised at the Industry Growth Forum an annual event organized by the U.S. Department of Energys National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Colorado, now in its 28th year. Thats a coveted, premier forum that sold out this year with some 750 investors, entrepreneurs and industry experts from the U.S. and other countries. UbiQD competed against 39 other companies chosen to present about their technologies for recognition in different categories, such as early-stage, commercial-stage and growth-stage startups. A panel of investors judged the participants, selecting six companies for awards in all categories combined. UbiQD founder and CEO Hunter McDaniel competed in the growth-stage group, but took the highest honor among everyone presenting, said NREL Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center Director Trish Cozart. UbiQD was chosen to present on stage from almost 200 applicants who were down selected to just 40 presenters, Cozart told the Journal. Hunters pitch was evaluated by a panel of investor judges and chosen among the entire field for the top honor of Best Venture.' That prestigious achievement could significantly boost UbiQDs standing in the sustainability and cleantech industries going forward. Winners of the IGF are looked upon with great interest by the investment community and cleantech ecosystem as top companies, Cozart said. UbiQD will now join the ranks of companies that have gone on before them to raise millions of dollars in capital. The event brings together entrepreneurs and investors to build relationships and accelerate development and deployment of new technologies. This years forum hosted more than 2,300 one-on-one meetings between startups and investors, according to event organizers. McDaniel met with about two dozen investors during the forum. And, after winning the IGF top honor, inquiries about UbiQD have grown markedly. Weve had immense follow-up interest and conversations, McDaniel told the Journal. The award was a big validation for our technology and our company, and it came from folks with financial resources who are looking for exciting opportunities. It will fast track us when we reach out to investors going forward. The company has already raised more than $15 million to date in private equity and research-and-development grants to fully prove its technology and apply the quantum dots in real-world applications. The nanoscale structures manipulate light in unique ways, absorbing it and emitting it back out in specific colors. Theyre used today in everything from LCD televisions and tablets to smartphones, lasers and even medical applications. But traditionally, theyve been extremely expensive to make, and theyre usually composed of toxic materials. UbiQDs product, however, is made through an alternative, inexpensive process that uses low-cost and nontoxic elements based on technology originally developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory. The company makes the quantum dots at a 9,000-square-foot facility in Los Alamos. It uses the material to create quantum-dot-tinted windows that provide solar electric generation, potentially converting windows into self-generating structures where the dots channel photons to solar cells attached to window frames. It also uses the dots to make plastic crop covers in greenhouses that can significantly accelerate plant growth. The dot-laced film, which is placed above crop rows, shifts sunshine into a red-and-orange light spectrum that mimics late-summer-like sun rays all year round. Thats considered the most potent time of year for plants, because they sense winter coming and grow faster. The company has sold the row covers, called UbiGro Inner, for a number of years for targeted use on crops inside greenhouses. Now, its developing that product into a full roof cover to accelerate plant growth throughout a greenhouse. It received a $350,000 NASA grant in December, plus matching funds from investors, to develop the whole-roof product, called UbiGro Cover. Weve rolled it out on a couple of pilot sites, and were taking sign-ups now for future customers, McDaniel said. We plan commercial launch of UbiGro Cover in the fall. The company also signed a new, exclusive supply-and-licensing agreement in September with Swiss company SICPA S.A., a global supplier of high-tech security inks that protect against counterfeiting of things like government and personal documents, such as passports, currency or bank notes. UbiQD has worked with SICPA since 2016 to imbed quantum dots into its security inks to provide unique optical features that make things harder to reproduce. We worked with them to develop, improve and optimize the technique, McDaniel said. That helped SIPCA gain enough confidence to now commit to a long-term, exclusive supply-and-licensing agreement. UbiQD, which employs 28 people, earned about $3.5 million in revenue last year, up from about $2.5 million in 2021. McDaniel projects between $4 million and $5 million this year. McDaniel said the NREL-IGF award was a special honor. It was a proud moment for me, for the company team and for all the people who have helped us develop over the years, McDaniel said. Its like an Academy Award for Best Venture. It was a pinch-me moment, and you dont get a lot of those in your career. Kevin Robinson-Avila covers technology, energy, venture capital and utilities for the Journal. He can be reached at krobinson-avila@abqjournal.com. The governor of New Mexico has appointed a new chief of State Police with a significantly larger salary than the one his predecessor started with. Spokeswoman Caroline Sweeney said Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has appointed Deputy Chief W. Troy Weisler to assume the role on June 24, with a salary of $158,000. Current Chief Tim Johnson was appointed as the states top cop in 2019, starting at $125,000 a year, and is retiring after 23 years with State Police. Johnson is currently making almost $145,000. In a statement Lujan Grisham said Weisler has the real-life experience and eye toward the future that a modern police force needs, and the people of New Mexico deserve. As chief, he will focus on building up relationships with local and federal partners to drive down crime and make New Mexico safer, she said. He is dedicated to creating a state police force which reflects the communities it protects by developing and implementing innovative ways to increase diversity within the department. Sweeney said Weisler was with State Police for 21 years and started as a patrol officer in Deming and Moriarty in 2002. She said, since then, Weisler had worked in every division of the Department of Public Safetys Law Enforcement branch. Weislers appointment as chief is still subject to state Senate confirmation. Sweeney said, like his successor, Johnson started his career as an officer with State Police in 2000. She said Johnson has worked in every commissioned section, division, and bureau. Its been an honor that I probably was unworthy of. I think I, and the department, did the best we could to navigate some crazy, strange times, Johnson told the Journal on Tuesday, referring to the COVID-19 pandemic and the nationwide calls for police reform in 2020. Johnson said he plans to spend time with his family before figuring out what hes going to do in the afterlife. An Air Force major general who was convicted in a court-martial for abusive sexual contact against his twin brothers wife after a family barbecue in Albuquerque will retire this week at a lower rank. Maj. Gen. William Cooley, a former commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory, will retire June 1 at the rank of colonel, which is two ranks below his current rank. The Air Force announced the decision following an officer grade determination by the Air Force secretary. It was an historic proceeding the case marked the first time in Air Force history that a major general faced a court-martial. The case stemmed from a family barbecue in Albuquerque in August 2018. An Albuquerque native who graduated from Highland High School and earned a masters degree at the University of New Mexico, Cooley was in town ahead of a work conference at Kirtland Air Force Base, which is home to two AFRL directorates. Cooley was assigned to KAFB twice during his Air Force career, according to the branchs website. After drinking bourbon and sangria during the barbecue, Cooley got a ride from his sister-in-law to another home to pick up his belongings, according to Air Force documents and testimony of the proceedings. During the ride, he told his brothers wife that he had sexually fantasized about her for years, according to testimony reported by several media outlets. He was convicted of forcibly kissing her in her Jeep. Col. Christina M. Jimenez presided over a week-long proceeding at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio in April 22. She found Cooley guilty of a specification alleging abusive sexual contact under the (Uniformed Code of Military Justice;) specifically, kissing the victim without her consent with an intent to gratify his sexual desire, according to the Air Force. Jimenez found him not guilty of the two other specifications, which involved allegations of inappropriate touching. Cooley was reprimanded and forfeited about two-thirds of his salary for five months, according to the Associated Press. The Department of the Air Force expects its leaders to embody our Core Values, and holds them accountable if they fall short of expectations, Derek Kaufman, a spokesman for the Air Force, said in a news release. Joshua Kastenberg, a University of New Mexico law professor and former military judge and prosecutor, said the change in Cooleys rank will likely cost him about $1,000 a month in benefits. The Air Force Secretary essentially had to determine when was the last rank that Cooley served honorably, Kastenberg said. He doesnt get to keep the parking space he would have gotten if he retired as a major general, he said. But more important than the rank in which Cooley will retire, Kastenberg said, is that the case symbolizes efforts by the military to hold its highest-ranking officers accountable. The Air Force actually took a step in holding a flag officer accountable in the military justice system, Kastenberg said. Commanding officers cant get away with not charging (the highest ranking officers). Thats critical, because it builds confidence in the system. Cooleys attorney couldnt be reached for comment on Tuesday. During Cooleys sentencing hearing, his brothers wife read a three-page statement saying that the assault left her humiliated, cost her valuable relationships with family members and continues to impact her. Ive had to share the details of that horrific night more times than I can count with not only friends and other family members but with complete strangers and now the world, she said. He stole my agency. My ability to tell my story to who I wanted, when I wanted. The woman and her husband reported the incident to the Air Force Office of Special Investigations in December 2019. She said she ultimately decided to report the incident, in part, to set an example for her daughters. I felt like a fraud to my amazing daughters, she said. What was I role modeling if I didnt speak up for myself? The taxpayer money has certainly been there for Albuquerque Public Schools, and in fact has been going up even as enrollment has been going down: $1.868 billion for the 2021-22 school year when enrollment dropped by 5,500 students to 73,000; $1.936 billion for 71,000 children in 2022-23; and now $2.16 billion to educate 70,400 students in 2023-24. This spending more money on fewer students would be less problematic if the district was in fact delivering students with improved academic proficiencies. Its not. To be fair, much of APS almost $100 million 2023-24 budget increase is out of the school districts hands. And so is the definite lack of accountability of ensuring any type of return on investment. State lawmakers in the most recent legislative session mandated 6% salary increases for public school employees. Multiplied across nearly 12,500 employees, that alone is expected to cost APS over $40 million. Lawmakers also modestly increased the amount of time students must spend in school. Thats another $13 million. And raising the abysmal base salaries of licensed educational assistants is expected to cost almost $8.4 million. But as APS board member Peggy Muller-Aragon asks, what kind of return are taxpayers getting for all theyre spending? We can do better than having 70% of our kids not be able to read at grade level and 80% not be able to do math, and its on us because we are the adults in the room, she said at last weeks APS board meeting. Thanks in great part to additional APS Board of Education members who are also student-focused, the district this year broke down in percentages how its spending would address each of the boards new goals. While the breakdowns are largely centered around improving student achievement over the next five years, they are a long way from real measurements of achievement and accountability. APS takes its lead from the N.M. Public Education Department, which is part of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grishams Cabinet and has had a revolving door for its leadership. One of Lujan Grishams first acts as governor was to opt New Mexico out of the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers exam, which measured how students were learning Common Core standards and allowed New Mexico to compare all of its students to each other and to those in other states. Results from the PARCC test were then used in the states school and district grading and teacher evaluation systems both also scuttled by the Legislature and the governor. FYI APS earned a D in 2015 and in 2016. And in 2017 34% of APS schools received an F. While dumping accountability fulfilled a campaign promise against high-stakes testing and served the interests of teacher unions, online apple-to-apple comparisons for students, parents and educators are now impossible a cynic might say by design because the tests have changed. Unfortunately, as Muller-Aragon points out, the poor results have not. With a $2 billion budget, across-the-board pay raises and more classroom time, APS should be positioned for real student academic improvements. APS board member Crystal Tapia-Romero, chair of the school boards finance committee, points out the district should better utilize the new money and deliver better results. A $2.2 billion budget is enormous, she said. Right now, you dont see it exactly aligned the way it should be, especially with the decrease of enrollment thats happened over eight years. APS has buckets of money. The district plans to spend $928 million in operational funding, up from about $869 million. But beyond salaries we really dont know what were getting for $2 billion-plus when it comes to our kids. With all comparable metrics removed courtesy of Santa Fe, all taxpayers, parents and educators can really do is hope and pray the substantial fiscal investments equate to substantially better educational outcomes at APS. Thats not fair to anyone. But one thing we will know is if student academic results continue to be abysmal, a lack of funding cant be the excuse anymore. This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by members of the editorial board and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers. Authorities say a wedding photo sparked the gunfight that left three biker club members dead and another five injured on Saturday during a motorcycle rally in Red River. In the aftermath police reportedly found an armed Bandido in a nearby bar with a pile of bloody clothes. Another who was wounded tried to pass cocaine to a woman after arriving at the hospital. Three of those involved didnt survive. Alleged Bandidos members Anthony Silva, 26, and Damian Breaux, 46, and Waterdogs member Randy Sanchez, 46, died in the shooting which brought the towns 41st annual Memorial Day Motorcycle Rally to a screeching halt. Authorities say Waterdog member Jacob Castillo, 30, of Rio Rancho, is charged with an open count of murder and Bandidos members Christopher Garcia, 41, and Matthew Jackson, 39, are facing drug and gun charges. Both Castillo and Garcia were shot in the incident. Garcia and Jackson have since been booked into the Taos County Detention Center. Prosecutors trying to keep Jackson, reportedly a chapter leader, and Garcia behind bars until trial, said the pair could seek retaliation if released. The pretrial detention motion states the shooting stemmed from a photo that showed Waterdogs and Mongols members together at a wedding. The Bandidos Gang was apparently aggravated at the Waterdogs for associating with the (Mongols) in territory which the Bandidos considered their territory, according to the motion. During a news conference Sunday, State Police Chief Tim Johnson described the squabble as: Something as stupid as that. State Police responded around 5 p.m. and found two people dead at the scene and a third person later died at the hospital. Five people were taken to various hospitals, including Castillo and Garcia. According to criminal complaints filed in Taos Magistrate Court: A State Police officer was with Garcia at Holy Cross Hospital when he tried to hand a woman his keys and, discreetly, a small blue bag. The woman was not paying attention and dropped the bag on the ground, revealing it was filled with cocaine. The woman told police she didnt know Garcia was trying to hand her the bag. Another officer responding to the shooting was told by a bystander that a Bandido member was holding bloody clothing afterward. The officer found the man, identified as Jackson, in the Motherlode Saloon. The officer found a bloody shirt, bloody shoes and belt on Jackson and a loaded gun in his waistband. Jackson had a concealed carry permit issued in Texas and told police he didnt know he wasnt allowed to have the gun in the bar. Jackson told police he wasnt drinking but officers found a dollar bill with meth inside Jacksons wallet. Jackson requested an attorney. After taking three bullets to the leg during a violent confrontation with members of the Bandidos motorcycle gang on Saturday, a New Mexico man who goes by the name of Shady called into a national YouTube podcast to give his side of the story. First, Shady said the motorcycle club he started nearly a decade ago in New Mexico and named the Waterdogs is not an outlaw gang. Im just a hometown guy with only seven members in my club, he said of the group thats based in the Albuquerque Metro area. Shady, who is the Waterdogs president, insisted the Bandidos were the aggressors and had attacked him in the past, all over a now-2-year-old photo posted on Facebook. The photo showed Shady with at least one member of a rival gang of the Bandidos. Police have released few details of how the multiple shootings unfolded other than to say three members of motorcycles groups were killed and five were injured Saturday on the main streets of Red River. Those killed were Randy Sanchez of Albuquerque and a member of the Waterdogs, and Anthony Silva of Los Lunas and Damian Breaux of Socorro, both members of the Bandidos. After Sanchezs death, the local club is now down to six members, said Shady, who described Sanchez as his best friend. One of the six remaining members is facing murder charges after being arrested, along with two Bandidos who are facing drug and weapons charges. That was the last thing on my mind, to have any kind of altercation with them, Shady told the hosts of Insane Throttle Biker News on YouTube. I just finished fixing up my bike and was trying to put it in the bike show (at the rally). Instead I got shot and my best friend of over 30 years got shot in the head and died. Shady, who said he had been in other motorcycle clubs in the past, said of his clubs name, the water comes from the living water which is Jesus Christ. And the dogs comes from, were a bunch of filthy dogs trying to chase after the clean water. He told the podcast audience he had had several confrontations with Bandidos recently. Last Saturday, Shady said several of his members and their wives were walking down Main Street in Red River when some of the wives wanted to go into some of the vendors tents. Two Bandidos approached two of his club members, and he called his men over, telling them, You dont need to be talking to those guys. All of a sudden, he said, eight other Bandidos came at him, tried to circle him and struck him from the right and left. They bum-rushed me, Shady said, and knocked three of his teeth out. The next thing I know I was on the ground with these two guys on top of me and they were trying to beat me up. I was just trying to fight my way out from under thereI was just trying to stay alive. He said he heard, guns started popping off in every which direction. Everybody was shooting back and forth until it was over with. It wasnt clear at what point in the gun battle he was shot in the leg. Shady said he was released from a New Mexico hospital Monday, which he said had been on alert for possible retaliation. He said he was put in a cab that drove him home, but he didnt identify where he lives or give his real name. What started the bad blood was a photograph someone posted on Facebook of Shady at a friends wedding as he was talking to three other men. At least one of the men belonged to the Mongols, a major rival of the Bandidos. The Mongols in recent years have been trying to move into New Mexico, according to federal criminal records, a state where the Bandidos have traditionally dominated. Court documents describe both the Bandidos and Mongols as outlaw motorcycle gangs that have been involved in violent and illegal activities across the country. However, Waterdogs have not been on federal law enforcements radar. Since the photo appeared on Facebook, I bent over frontwards and backwards and sideways trying to explain to them (the Bandidos) this picture is not what they think it is, said Shady, who said he is 48 years old and handicapped. We were standing there drinking a beer, he said of the wedding photo. Its not like we were collaborating or trying to get anything over on these guys. Shady told the co-hosts he doesnt know whether he will be criminally charged. He recalled how his club saved up its money last fall to ride up the California coast and back. That was my idea of a good time. Podcast co-host James Hollywood Macecari told the Journal in a phone interview Tuesday that his Chicago-based show verified through its connections that the man calling himself Shady is the president of the club. So where do the Waterdogs go now? Now that were down to six, Shady said, we have to reevaluate the situation and see if its even worth it anymore, you know. Macecari told the Journal of the huge interest in the shootout in the biker community. I think its going to calm down as far as the violence is concerned because everybodys eyes are on them right now. So its not over, if you know what I mean. Theyre going to give it time, but they lost some guys. Ive been in this life for 30 years now, and knowing how things react, yeah, its not going to be over. SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Koreas attempt to put its first spy satellite into space failed Wednesday in a setback to leader Kim Jong Uns push to boost his military capabilities as tensions with the United States and South Korea rise. After an unusually quick admission of failure, North Korea vowed to conduct a second launch after it learns what went wrong. It suggests Kim remains determined to expand his weapons arsenal and apply more pressure on Washington and Seoul while diplomacy is stalled. South Korea and Japan briefly urged residents in some areas to take shelter after the launch. The South Korean military said it was salvaging an object presumed to be part of the crashed North Korean rocket in waters 200 kilometers (125 miles) west of the southwestern island of Eocheongdo. Later, the Defense Ministry released photos of a white, metal cylinder it described as a suspected rocket part. A satellite launch by North Korea is a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban the country from conducting any launch based on ballistic technology. Observers say North Koreas previous satellite launches helped improve its long-range missile technology. North Korean long-range missile tests in recent years demonstrated a potential to reach all of the continental U.S., but outside experts say the North still has some work to do to develop functioning nuclear missiles. The newly developed Chollima-1 rocket was launched at 6:37 a.m. at the Norths Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in the northwest, carrying the Malligyong-1 satellite. The rocket crashed off the Korean Peninsulas western coast after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages, the Norths official Korean Central News Agency said. South Koreas military said the rocket had an abnormal flight before it fell in the water. Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that no object was believed to have reached space. North Korean media said the countrys space agency will investigate what it calls the serious defects revealed by the launch and conduct a second launch as soon as possible. It is impressive when the North Korean regime actually admits failure, but it would be difficult to hide the fact of a satellite launch failure internationally, and the regime will likely offer a different narrative domestically, said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul. This outcome also suggests that Pyongyang may stage another provocation soon, in part to make up for todays setback. Adam Hodge, a spokesperson at the U.S. National Security Council, said in a statement that Washington strongly condemns the North Korean launch because it used banned ballistic missile technology, raised tensions and risked destabilizing security in the region and beyond. The U.N. imposed economic sanctions on North Korea over its previous satellite and ballistic missile launches but has not responded to recent tests because China and Russia, permanent Security Council members now locked in confrontations with the U.S., have blocked attempts to toughen the sanctions. Seouls military said it boosted military readiness in coordination with the United States, and Japan said it was prepared to respond to any emergency. The U.S. said it will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and the defense of South Korea and Japan. After the launch was detected, the South Korean government sent cellphone text messages urging residents of a front-line island off the west coast to move to safer places. Officials in Seoul, the capital, issued similar phone messages to city residents, but the countrys Interior and Safety Ministry later said the Seoul alerts were sent in error. Seouls mayor apologized for causing public confusion. Japan activated a missile warning system for Okinawa prefecture in southwestern Japan, in the rockets suspected path. Please evacuate into buildings or underground, the Japanese alert said. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada said Japan plans to keep missile defense systems deployed in its southern islands and in southwestern waters until June 11, the end of North Koreas announced launch window. KCNA didnt provide details of the rocket or the satellite beyond their names. Experts earlier said North Korea would likely use a liquid-fueled rocket as most of its previously tested long-range rockets and missiles have done. Though it plans a fuller investigation, the Norths National Aerospace Development Administration attributed the failure to the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system applied to (the) carrier rocket and the unstable character of the fuel, according to KCNA. On Tuesday, Ri Pyong Chol, a top North Korean official, said the North needs a space-based reconnaissance system to counter escalating security threats from South Korea and the United States. However, the spy satellite shown earlier in the countrys state-run media didnt appear to be sophisticated enough to produce high-resolution imagery. Some outside experts said it may be able to detect troop movements and large targets such as warships and warplanes. Recent commercial satellite imagery of the Norths Sohae launch center showed active construction indicating North Korea plans to launch more than one satellite. In his Tuesday statement, Ri also said North Korea would test various reconnaissance means to monitor moves by the United States and its allies in real time. With three to five spy satellites, North Korea could build a space-based surveillance system that allows it to monitor the Korean Peninsula in near real-time, according to Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Koreas Science and Technology Policy Institute. The satellite is one of several high-tech weapons systems that Kim has publicly vowed to introduce. Other weapons on his wish list include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. In his visit to the space agency in mid-May, Kim emphasized the strategic significance of a spy satellite in North Koreas standoff with the United States and South Korea. Easley, the professor, said Kim likely increased pressure on his scientists and engineers to launch the spy satellite after rival South Korea successfully launched its first commercial-grade satellite aboard its domestically built Nuri rocket earlier this month. South Korea is expected to launch its first spy satellite later this year, and analysts say Kim likely wants his country to launch its spy satellite before the South to reinforce his military credentials at home. After repeated failures, North Korea successfully put its first satellite into orbit in 2012 and a second one in 2016. The government said both are Earth observation satellites launched under its peaceful space development program, but many foreign experts believe both were developed to spy on rivals. Observers say there has been no evidence that the satellites have ever transmitted imagery back to North Korea. ___ Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report. (Photo : Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images) North Korea's planned satellite launch ends in failure after the rocket suffered a malfunction and crashed into the sea. North Korea's satellite launch failed after the rocket suffered failure and crashed into the sea The space vehicle reportedly suffered instability in the engine and the fuel system The mission is North Korea's sixth satellite launch and its first since 2016 North Korea's planned satellite launch failed after the rocket experienced a malfunction and crashed into the sea as South Korea's military announced that it could recover parts of the space vehicle. State news agency KCNA was the one that reported the failure of the satellite launch and said that the "Chollima-1" rocket failed due to instability in the engine and the fuel system. The mission was the sixth satellite attempt by North Korea and its first since 2016. North Korea's Satellite Launch Ends in Failure The launch was designed to place North Korea's first spy satellite into orbit, prompting concern among international powers. Parts of South Korea and Japan issued emergency alerts and brief evacuation warnings. As per Yahoo News, these notices were later withdrawn, with no danger or damage reported. On Wednesday, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said that the country's military was already conducting a salvage operation to recover what officials believe to be parts of North Korea's space vehicle. Military authorities also shared photographs of debris they pulled from the water near the crash site. Officials from various countries, namely Japan, South Korea, and the United States, held a phone call following the incident. They "strongly condemned" North Korea's launch during the call, said Japan's foreign ministry. The statement noted that the three countries involved in the call will continue to remain vigilant with a high sense of urgency following the incident. On the other hand, North Korean authorities said it plans to launch its first military reconnaissance satellite between May 31 and June 11 to strengthen its monitoring of US military activities. Last week, South Korean officials placed satellites into orbit with a domestically designed and produced rocket for the first time. Furthermore, according to Reuters, China sent three astronauts to its space station on Tuesday as part of a crew rotation. Read Also: Moscow Suburb Connected to Putin Targeted in Drone Attack, Several Buildings Damaged First Reconnaissance Satellite KCNA noted that North Korea's satellite crashed into the sea after it lost thrust due to the abnormal starting of the second-stage engine. The report was an unusual admission of a technical malfunction that the country faced. The state news agency noted that Pyongyang's National Aerospace Development Administration (NADA) will conduct an investigation into the "serious defects" and will take action to address them in time for a second launch as soon as possible. North Korean officials also provided data to international authorities where they said that Pyongyang plans to carry the rocket south, with stages and other debris expected to fall over the Yellow Sea and into the Pacific Ocean. On Monday, Japan's Defense Ministry issued a warning that it would move to destroy any North Korean missile that enters its territory. This came several weeks after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ordered his officials to prepare to launch the North's first military reconnaissance satellite, said CNN. Related Article: North Korea to Deploy First Military Surveillance Satellite to Spy on US Exercises @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Why didnt my median make the list? Barry emails I noticed Wyoming and Menaul was not on the list of corners that would be included in the new regulation that makes it illegal to stand where the medians are less than 4 feet wide. The corner at the south end of that intersection is less than 4 feet wide, and its both dangerous for persons standing on that median and scary for drivers as you come close to hitting people when heading south on Wyoming and turning south onto Wyoming from west(bound) Menaul. These medians are on the no-standing list: Montano and Fourth, Indian School and Carlisle, Carlisle and Lomas, Louisiana and Menaul, Avenida Cesar Chavez and Broadway, Copper and Eubank, Montgomery and Louisiana, Menaul and San Mateo, Menaul and San Pedro, University and Gibson, Yale and Gibson, Montano and Coors, Ellison and Coors, Coors and Irving, Alameda and Corrales. Rebecca Atkins with the Albuquerque Police Department explains the medians were selected through a combination of complaints that have come in to the area commanders, crash data, as well as medians smaller than 4 feet in width that meet the qualifications of the ordinance. More medians will be added: She adds the first 15 is just the first round of locations, however. We are working on a second round of locations in the near future. APD started issuing tickets, which are up to $100, May 22. Where did NMs front license plates go? Matt emails I have lived in other states, and when I moved here I was surprised that a front license plate was not required. I would think law enforcement would welcome a requirement for a front license plate. Has New Mexico always had a single plate? Has the two-plate requirement been proposed in the past? The question comes fresh on the heels of a failed, bipartisan legislative attempt to require front license plates, sponsored by Albuquerque Police Department and Bernalillo County Sheriffs Department veteran Rep. Bill Rehm, attorney Gail Chasey and former prosecutor and Deputy Attorney General Marian Matthews. Their bill would have added $2 to registration fees; exempted trailers, semitrailers, pole trailers, manufactured homes, school buses, state government vehicles, motorcycles and off-highway vehicles; and kicked in in 2027. It died in the House Transportation, Public Works & Capital Improvements Committee. KRQE-Channel 13 reported that according to committee discussion, New Mexico switched from being a two-license-plate state to just one in 1961. Lawmakers want to have both front and back plates again because they believe it will help curb crime. Currently, roughly half of U.S. states require front-end license plates. APD Commander Mark Torres said it gives us just another method to identify a potential criminal or even a missing person or an Amber Alert of some sort when looking at the front of a vehicle. Calming structures now on West Central: After Pronoy Bhattacharya, 7, was killed by an ATV while crossing Central on the way home from the River of Lights in 2021, the city vowed to install calming structures to slow down the serial speeders in the area. And the Downtown Albuquerque News reports several have been installed a spokesman for Albuquerques Department of Municipal Development says an automated speed camera and a flashing beacon with a congested area sign are up and running, and a radar feedback sign is also planned. Stunned by ABQs litter: Emily Chavez emails I can safely say that when I drive our city, I am stunned by the amount of litter in and around our city. And Emily is not alone. Emily Moore, marketing and communications coordinator for the citys Solid Waste Management Department, says there are graffiti and litter crews stationed around the city cleaning up seven days a week. SWMD litter crews clean up medians, highways, interstates, on- and off-ramps, as well as other major thoroughfares. However, private property owners are responsible for the upkeep of their own property. Request a cleanup; pitch in: Moore says if a resident has concerns about trash in any of the areas that SWMD handles, they are asked to report it to 311. The department also encourages residents to get involved by organizing their own cleanup or joining us for one of our city-wide cleanup events. Keeping our city clean and beautiful takes a One Albuquerque effort. Editorial page editor DVal Westphal tackles commuter issues for the metro area on Mondays. Reach her at 823-3858; dwestphal@abqjournal.com; or 7777 Jefferson NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109. Three people were killed in a shootout Saturday during a Memorial Day Motorcycle Rally in Red River. The towns mayor says the annual festival will be rebranded. (Chancey Bush/ Albuquerque Journal) The Red River Motorcycle Rally as it has existed for the last 41 years is over after a deadly shooting Saturday left three people killed and five injured. Red River Mayor Linda Calhoun said the town will still host some sort of event in the future. Its fair to say weve seen the last Red River Motorcycle Rally, Calhoun said in her opening remarks at a public meeting called to address the shooting. She said she hopes the town can rebrand a Memorial Day weekend event that focuses on families and veterans and makes no mention of motorcycles. Gunfire erupted during the rally held in the picturesque mountain hamlet in northern New Mexico about 5 p.m. on Saturday. Police have said that all of the three people who were killed and the five others who were injured were members of two motorcycle groups the Bandidos and the lesser-known Waterdogs. On Wednesday, Calhoun drew attention to the first responders who were at the scene within seconds. She said town officials brought in mental health services for police and other responders on Tuesday. She said similar services would be offered to other town residents. She also said the town made mistakes after the shooting by not clearly communicating with village residents and guests. She said some visitors were either stranded in or out of town because of lock-down orders put in place after the shooting. Albuquerque Public Schools still has some significant employment holes to fill. This week, the district is hoping to make some gains. In an effort to fill some 700 open positions, APS is hosting a job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday at their professional development center at 3315 Louisiana NE. APS biggest needs are among special education teachers, educational assistants and bus drivers, according to a news post on their website. The need for special education teachers is more or less in line with the rest of the state. New Mexico State University in October found that special education teachers made up the largest share of the states teacher vacancies. On a brighter note, APS is hoping that a bill approved by state lawmakers this year that more than doubles the minimum salaries of educational assistants will help attract more people to those positions. With the states increase in starting pay for educational assistants up to $25,000 per year, we are hoping to attract more (EAs) to the district, senior director of human resource systems Dorothy Chavez said in the post. Still, the district needs more bodies in several other positions, including school police officers, substitute teachers, custodians, maintenance workers and information technology employees. As of last month, the district estimated around 10 school police officer vacancies. The district recommends that people looking for jobs dress to impress and bring copies of their resumes, because jobs could be offered on the spot. Applying online ahead of the job fair could also help speed up the hiring process, the district said. Red River residents still reeling from a shootout between motorcycle gangs during the Red River Motorcycle Rally last weekend took aim at the Taos County sheriff and his agency during the first public meeting since the shooting. Locals vented frustration at Sheriff Steve Miera and Undersheriff Jerry Hogrefe for refusing to send deputies to Red River prior to the shooting to create a stronger law enforcement of the town during the rally, and for the decision to lock down Red River for hours after the shooting, which stranded some guests and permanent residents from their homes or children. Red River Marshal James Johnson, while responding to questions from a local resident during the meeting, said the sheriffs office asked the town to pay for any deputies to patrol Red River during the rally, though deputies did respond after the shooting. Why the hell would we have to pay the sheriffs (office) to come down here and do their damn jobs? said Jack Shaw, a resident, at the meeting. At one point during the meeting, it appeared Hogrefe got into a heated discussion with a Red River resident until other deputies gathered around their boss and he left the microphone. Miera, who also attended the meeting, defended his decisions. He said the massive motorcycle rally, which draws an estimated 28,000 riders, affects the entire county when large groups of motorcyclists go on miles-long group rides through the mountains of northern New Mexico. Miera said thats why he couldnt send his limited resources inside the small town of Red River, which has about 550 permanent residents. He said protocols law enforcement follow after the shooting called for Red River to be locked down for a time period after the shooting. Sheriffs officials also said motorcycle club members were spotted following the ambulances carrying the people who had been shot to hospitals after the shooting, which showed there were ongoing threats. It wasnt a popular decision, but its one I had to make, Miera said of the decision to lock down the town. I was elected to keep you safe. SANTA FE A state judge has halted a small southeast New Mexico citys lawsuit against top Democratic state officials at least for now as a Supreme Court case focused on anti-abortion ordinances plays out. After a Tuesday hearing in Lovington, District Court Judge Lee Kirksey granted Attorney General Raul Torrezs motion to put the city of Eunices lawsuit against him and Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on hold, likely until the other case is resolved. The lawsuit was filed by Eunice city leaders in April and challenges the states efforts to block local anti-abortion ordinances from being enforced. Specifically, it claims a federal law enacted in the 1870s trumps a new state law set to take effect June 16 that aims to prohibit jurisdictions from restricting access to reproductive health care, including abortion. At least six New Mexico cities and counties have passed anti-abortion ordinances that, in some cases, could make it unlawful for women to ingest abortion medication in their homes. The attorney general filed a petition with the state Supreme Court in January just weeks after taking office in an attempt to strike down four of the ordinances on the basis that they violate civil rights guaranteed in the states Constitution. The other two ordinances, enacted by Eunice and Edgewood, were approved after the petition was filed. In a Wednesday statement, Torrez said the judges ruling would allow the states highest court to decide the underlying legal issues. We applaud Judge Kirkseys decision to stay the lawsuit filed by the city of Eunice as it seeks to deny women the right to reproductive healthcare and undermine the equal protection guarantees found in our state Constitution, Torrez said. We refuse to allow women to be relegated to the status of second-class citizens and look forward to definitively resolving this question in the proper forum the New Mexico Supreme Court. Michael Seibel, an attorney for the city of Eunice, said the judges ruling was largely expected, though he said its possible the case could be revived. This case is not going to be won at the District Court level, Seibel told the Journal. The Supreme Court has not yet indicated whether it will hear oral arguments in the case, but issued an order in March temporarily blocking the local ordinances from being enforced and directing the various involved parties to file responses. Several outside groups have also gotten involved in the case, including the ACLU, Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains and the Washington D.C.-based Alliance Defending Freedom. Instagram Celebrity The 'Jersey Shore' star, who welcomed Ambella with Amanda Markert in 2013, is seen embracing the pre-teen while smiling ear-to-ear at her birthday party. May 31, 2023 AceShowbiz - DJ Pauly D seemingly had a great time on his daughter Ambella's 10th birthday. The "Jersey Shore" star looked so happy in pictures taken from the birthday celebration. In one of the photos obtained by an MTV fan account, the 42-year-old could be seen holding a cute birthday cake as he stood up next to his daughter. In another snap, the TV personality was seen embracing Ambella as he smiled ear-to-ear. DJ Pauly D brought his girlfriend Nikki Hall to the event. The couple even posed alongside Ambella and her mom Amanda Markert for a picture. DJ Pauly D and Amanda welcomed Ambella in 2013. While the exes seem to be on good terms now, they were previously entangled in a lengthy custody battle after the artist claimed Amanda was unfit to be a mother. DJ Pauly D requested full custody of Amanda at the time. However, the two parents eventually came to an agreement that Amanda would be the primary caregiver. The reality star has been raising Amanda out of the spotlight. Though so, he once declared that becoming a father was one of the best things to ever happen to him. "Having kids is one of the most amazing experiences of my entire life," he said while on the dating competition series "Double Shot At Love". "It's the first time I ever loved somebody more than myself. That girl is my everything and there are two most important ladies in my life - my mother and my daughter," the DJ added. "And I'm looking for a third." You can share this post! Paramount Plus TV Rebecca Romijn and her co-stars on the new 'Star Trek' show were beamed in from Los Angeles and New York for an exclusive panel at the comic book convention in London. May 31, 2023 AceShowbiz - Stars of the show "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" appeared as digital avatars from LA and New York to join MCM Comic Con's first holographic panel for fans in London. Rebecca Romijn, 50, who stars as Una Chin-Riley) on the Paramount+ show, as well as Ethan Peck, 37, (Spock), Celia Rose Gooding, 23, (Nyota Uhura) and Melissa Navia, 38, (Erica Ortegas) thrilled fans when their digital selves appeared for an exclusive panel hosted by Alex Zane, 44, on Friday, May 26. "We have just literally been beamed in. It's another example of technology existing in Star Trek 40 or 50 years before it existed in real life, much like the flip phone and tricorderswild!" Rebecca said. During the panel, the stars also discussed filming the most recent series and revealed behind-the-scenes secrets from the set, with fans also treated to an exclusive first look at the upcoming series. Fans of "Star Trek" have grown accustomed to seeing their favourite stars beamed from place to place using the transporter on the USS Enterprise over the last 56 years. As a homage to the age-old "Star Trek" hallmark, Paramount+ worked with the global leader in live hologram technology, ARHT, to create a fitting, unique and iconic experience for fans attending MCM Comic Con in London. The technology provided the opportunity for the stars to get as close to an authentic "beaming in" experience as possible in real-life. Cameron Dillavou, international chief marketing officer at Paramount+ said, "We are excited to bring 'Star Trek, Strange new Worlds' to life in the real world. We wanted to provide a mind-blowing, state-of-the-art experience for fans at MCM London Comic Con and having our stars attend as holograms while they are still in the US was the perfect way to do that. We hope fans of the show are as thrilled by the panel experience as we are." Melissa Navia added, "I think that fans will be most excited to see 10 new episodes of 'Strange New Worlds'. The fans have been telling us all year that they have been watching season one over and over again and that's the highest compliment you can get as an actor or storyteller." Season two of the show, which also features the return of special guest star Paul Wesley, 40, as James T. Kirk and new addition Carol Kane, 70, in a recurring role as Pelia, will premiere on Paramount+ from June 15. You can share this post! Instagram Celebrity The former 'Batwoman' actress is leaving the United States to move back to her home country Down Under following a row over her departure from the DC television show. May 31, 2023 AceShowbiz - Ruby Rose is overjoyed to be returning home to Australia after a decade in Los Angeles. The 37-year-old actress has announced that she's headed to Melbourne to star in her first ever play, "2:22 A Ghost Story". "I'm very excited. I've always wanted to do theatre, and this is my first play," Ruby told The Herald Sun newspaper as she's looking forward to the production - which opens on July 25 at Her Majesty's Theatre in Melbourne. Ruby explained that she's fulfilling a long-held ambition by starring in a stage production. The actress - whose previous credits include the TV series "Batwoman" and 2016's "Resident Evil: The Final Chapter" - is excited to play the part of Lauren. Speaking about her character, Ruby said, "She's intelligent, but also a bit of mess, which is relatable." Meanwhile, Ruby left "Batwoman" after one season in 2020 and subsequently complained of unsafe and hostile working conditions. The actress said on Instagram at the time, "I'm going to tell the whole world what really happened on that set I will come for you so what happened to me never happens to another person again. And so I can finally take back my life and the truth. Shame on you (sic)." Ruby subsequently discussed the injuries suffered by cast and crew members during production. However, Warner Bros later denied the allegations. The company said in a statement, "Despite the revisionist history that Ruby Rose is now sharing online aimed at the producers, the cast and crew, the network, and the studio, the truth is that Warner Bros. Television had decided not to exercise its option to engage Ruby for season two of 'Batwoman' based on multiple complaints about workplace behaviour that were extensively reviewed and handled privately out of respect for all concerned." You can share this post! Instagram Celebrity The 'Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' star and the lawyer, who was recently arrested for assault, enjoy an outing amid her divorce from disgraced former attorney Tom Girardi. May 31, 2023 AceShowbiz - Is Erika Jayne okay? The 51-year-old Bravolebrity sparked concern among fans after she looked unrecognizable during an apparent date night with lawyer Jim Wilkes over the weekend. A picture taken during the outing saw "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star donning skintight red leather leggings and a graphic long-sleeve tee and sky-high pumps. The 51-year-old reality TV star and Jim were seen strolling through Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Upon seeing the snap, fans thought that Erika seemingly took her weight loss a little too far. "She looks like she's lost too much weight. Not her biggest fan, but I hope she's okay," one Twitter user commented. "Holy crap she's skinny," another added, while one other similarly wrote, "Wow she's so teeny. I wouldn't have recognized her." Someone else, meanwhile, accused Erika of consuming Ozempic, the diabetes drug that some people take to lose weight fast. "Dead serious? This is her? Yikes I know we been joking about the ozempic use but this looks more. I hope she's ok," the person said. "Sad thing is the reason I loved her when she first showed up cuz she wasn't a typical BH body type. For real tho I hope she's ok." "I've never *loved* Erika, but early on I appreciated her as a character, and above all that always loved her physique," another user wrote. "It really bums me out to see her like this in all honesty. No body shaming but this feels unnaturally achieved so take that as you will." Meanwhile, Erika and Jim's outing came amid her divorce from disgraced former attorney Tom Girardi. She was in Sin City to prepare for her upcoming residency at the House of Blues in the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. For the outing, Jim, who was recently arrested, opted for a casual look in dark blue jeans and a leather jacket. Jim was arrested for felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and misdemeanor battery. Best known for suing nursing homes on behalf of abused residents, Jim is facing criminal charges after firing two shots inside his home during a domestic dispute with an unknown woman last month. He claimed the woman had hit him in the head and that he grabbed a handgun since he was afraid she would take it. He also said that he fired a round to scare the woman but that he did not aim the gun at her. The woman, however, alleged that he fired two rounds and then held the gun to her head and torso and threatened to kill her. Authorities revealed that the woman also might be prosecuted for attacking Jim. You can share this post! Cover Images/Michael Simon Celebrity After many speculated that she imitated her estranged sister-in-law's move, the 'Real Housewives of New Jersey' star finds herself a defender who reminded she did it first in 2019. May 31, 2023 AceShowbiz - Teresa Giudice has subtly responded to allegations she copied Melissa Gorga's college admission celebration. Being met with speculations that the commemoration of her daughter Gabriella's University of Michigan acceptance imitated her estranged sister-in-law's bash for daughter Antonia's, the star of "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" offered her gratitude when one fan came to her defense. On Tuesday, May 30, Teresa replied to a fan who came to her defense in the comments section of her Instagram post. After the fan pointed out, "Everyone keep saying she's copying Melissa, remember Teresa did this first with [Gia Giudice]," the 51-year-old reality star wrote back, "Thank you sweetheart," and added a red heart emoji. The fan was referring to the time when Teresa shared a snap of her eldest child Gia celebrating her college admission back in 2019. At the time, Teresa's post captured her daughter sitting on her bed while being surrounded by Rutgers University's merchandise. Before being subjected to the copying allegations, Teresa shared a series of photos from Gabriella's celebration on Instagram. In the photos, her teen daughter could be seen smiling from ear to ear as she posed surrounded by blue and yellow university merchandise. Another photo showed her being kissed on the cheek by her mother. Along with the pictures, Teresa proudly announced in the caption, "Gabriella is off to the University of Michigan [blue heart emoji] [yellow heart emoji]." She went on to write a message for Gabriella, "I am so proud of you. I adore watching you work so hard for the things you want, and you deserve everything that is yet to come." "I am so excited to see what your bright future holds," she added. "I love you my porcelain doll, and I am gonna miss you being at home!" She additionally put two red hearts emojis and hashtags that read, "#proudmommy #unversityofmichigan #2023." In response to Teresa's post, many were quick to point out the similarity with Melissa's bash for her own daughter. One commented, "Are we copying Melissa much lmao." Another stated, "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness. - Oscar Wilde." A third suggested, "Looks like you copied the same room your sister in law did for her kid." You can share this post! (Photo : STR/JIJI Press/AFP via Getty Images) Fumio Kishida dismissed his own son from his position in response to public outrage. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced on Monday that his son is resigning from his position as executive policy secretary to accept responsibility for using the prime minister's residence for a private party. Shotaro Kishida, his father's executive secretary for political affairs and eldest son, invited a group of people, including relatives, to the Prime Minister's Official Residence on December 30 for a year-end gathering. Japan PM Kishida Orders Son to Quit Over 'Inappropriate Behavior Photos published by the weekly Shukan Bunshun magazine depicted Kishida's son and his relatives posing on red-carpeted stairs in imitation of the group photos taken of newly appointed Cabinets, with the junior Kishida occupying the prime ministerial position. Other photographs depicted visitors at a podium, as if they were conducting a news conference, as per NBC News. Kishida admitted that he briefly greeted the guests, but stated that he did not stay for the dinner celebration. Fumio Kishida stated that he had harshly reprimanded his son for his participation in the party, but that was insufficient to quell the ongoing criticism from opposition legislators and public outrage that have lowered his approval ratings. In October, Kishida appointed his son to one of the eight secretary positions held by the prime minister as policy secretary. The appointment was criticized as nepotism, which is prevalent in Japanese politics, which has been dominated for decades by hereditary legislators. His son was formerly his father's personal assistant. Other photographs depicted visitors at a podium, as if they were conducting a news conference, according to The Independent. The photos, which were published on 24 May, have been widely criticized and are a major humiliation for the prime minister, whose flagging approval ratings had been temporarily bolstered by the positive response to his hosting of the recent G7 summit. Fumio Kishida initially responded by stating that he had severely reprimanded his son for the gathering, but this did little to quell public outrage. The prime minister announced in a statement on Tuesday that his son would be succeeded in his official position by Takayoshi Yamamoto on June 1. Three-quarters of respondents in a survey conducted by the Japanese newspaper Asahi viewed the behavior of the prime minister's son as problematic. A separate poll conducted by Nikkei revealed the prime minister's approval rating had dropped by five percentage points to 47%. The opposition accused Fumio Kishida of nurturing his son to be his successor, drawing criticism for the appointment itself. The dispute over the Tokyo party was not the first time that the 32-year-old Kishida's behavior caused his father a political headache. Earlier, Shotaro Kishida was accused of abusing his official position after he was observed using embassy vehicles for private sightseeing in Britain and Paris and purchasing souvenirs for cabinet members at a luxury department store in London while on a trip with his father. Hirokazu Matsuno, the chief cabinet secretary, deemed the son's gathering at the official residence "inappropriate" and vowed to ensure future proper administration of the facility. Nobuyuki Baba, the leader of the opposition Japan Innovation Party, said that the prime minister's son "should have been cognizant of his position." Read Also: VIDEO: Suspect Identified in Fatal Stabbing of Teen on India's Busy Road A Setback to Japan's Prime Minister Shotaro Kishida's resignation is a setback to his father, whose approval ratings improved promptly after this month's G7 summit in Hiroshima and a purported assassination attempt during a campaign stop this month. In 2005, when a new office was constructed, the nearly 100-year-old building that had previously operated as the prime minister's office was converted into living accommodations. Per Guardian, Shotaro, 32, it has not been the first time has been criticized for exploiting his official position. In January, while accompanying his father, he was reprimanded for using embassy vehicles for private sightseeing excursions in Britain and Paris and for souvenir shopping at a luxury department store in London. Shotaro began working for his father in March 2020, after quitting his position at a trading firm, with Kishida insisting that he did so because of his son's "personality and insight." The scandal could dampen rumors that Kishida is planning to convene a sudden lower house election following generally positive reviews of his performance at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, highlighted by the personal appearance of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky at the summit. Related Article: Japan Missile Defense on Alert as North Korea Notifies Neighbors of Satellite Launch @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Cover Images/Dutch Press Photo Celebrity The director of the Margaret Thatcher Centre is seeking to uncover details of the visa application submitted by the Duke of Sussex after the royal dished on his experiment with drugs. Jun 1, 2023 AceShowbiz - Prince Harry could deal with a US visa court fight after his drug revelations in his memoir "Spare". The US government may have to unseal the 38-year-old's visa application in court after think tank has been looking to confirm the Duke of Sussex's use of cocaine, marijuana, and magic mushrooms was correctly detailed on his visa application. Nile Gardiner, director of the Margaret Thatcher Centre for Freedom at the Heritage Foundation, said a federal judge will hear the case on June 6. "Prince Harry immigration records case will be held in Washington, DC Federal Court in front of a US Federal Judge," Mr. Gardiner, formerly an aide to the late Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, tweeted on Tuesday. In his memoir, Harry candidly confessed to using cocaine and cannabis, as well as consuming magic mushroom chocolates at a party hosted by "Friends" actress Courteney Cox, 58, in 2016. The book's release and the subsequent media frenzy prompted the Heritage Foundation to demand the release of Harry's visa application through a Freedom of Information request, which the government has so far denied. As part of the visa application process, immigrants seeking entry or permanent residence in the US are required to disclose their history of drug use. According to US immigration laws, individuals deemed "drug abusers" are classified as "inadmissible" although immigration officials have discretion to waive these rules on a case-by-case basis. The Heritage Foundation's pursuit of Harry's immigration records aims to uncover what he revealed to the authorities during his application, whether a waiver was granted, and who made the decision. In a statement, the thinktank asserted, "The American people deserve answers to the serious questions raised by the evidence. Did (the) DHS (Department of Homeland Security), in fact, turn a blind eye, show favouritism, or fail to appropriately address any potential false statements by Prince Harry?" Following their decision to step down as working members of the Royal Family, Harry and his wife Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, 41, moved to Los Angeles in March 2020. In "Spare", Harry shared his experiences with cannabis and magic mushrooms, acknowledging he used cocaine to "feel different." He described his experimentation as not particularly enjoyable but driven by a desire for escape. If it is found Harry, who has son Archie, four, and 23-month-old Lilibet with Meghan, provided false information about drug use on his immigration forms, he could potentially face deportation and the loss of his US residency status. You can share this post! Warner Bros. Pictures Movie Director Andy Muschietti praises Ezra for being a perfect fit for DC speedster while his sibling, producer Barbara Muschietti, calls the actor 'absolutely supreme' despite scandals involving the star. Jun 1, 2023 AceShowbiz - "The Flash" director Andy Muschietti would welcome Ezra Miller back in the titular role if there is ever a sequel. Insisting that no one can play the DC superhero better than Miller, the filmmaker would have the 30-year-old star back in a flash despite the fact they were arrested multiple times last year, "If [a sequel] happens, yes. I don't think there's anyone that can play that character as well as they did. The other depictions of the character are great, but this particular vision of the character, they just excelled in doing it. And, as you said, the two Barrys - it feels like a character that was made for them," Muschietti said when appearing on "The Discourse". Producer Barbara Muschietti added, "In principal photography, Ezra was brilliant and the most committed and the most professional [actor]. Ezra gave everything for this role - physically, creatively, emotionally. They were absolutely supreme." Their comments come after Miller's co-star Michael Shannon admitted he "feels for" the troubled star. The 48-year-old actor plays DC's villainous General Zod in "The Flash". And when asked about the controversy surrounding the movie, Shannon told Vanity Fair, "If you're talking about Ezra [Miller], I thought Ezra was lovely - very kind to me when I was there. It's difficult to talk about, but I always give people a lot of slack in this business, because there's a lot of people in this business that have issues." "And some people have more privacy than others. Any time somebody is out in the spotlight getting picked on, I feel for them. Even if it's warranted, it's still a horrible situation." Miller - who goes by they/them pronouns - has previously been hit with allegations of grooming after the parents of Native American activist Tokota Iron Eyes, 18, filed a protection order against the actor. Miller was also arrested twice in Hawaii in March last year and charged with disorderly conduct and second-degree assault. They were accused of shouting and swearing at customers as they sang karaoke at a bar, as well as grabbing a microphone from a 23-year-old woman. Miller pleaded no contest to one count of disorderly conduct and paid a $500 fine over the incident. A married couple also took out a restraining order against them after Miller burst into their bedroom and threatened to kill them then left, stealing her passport and his wallet. And in April 2022, the star was accused of throwing a chair at a 26-year-old woman and hitting her at a private party. A video of Miller appearing to choke a woman at a bar in Reykjavik, Iceland, also surfaced in April 2020, but did not result in any charges. Last year, Miller announced that they were seeking treatment for "complex mental health issues," saying in a statement, "Having recently gone through a time of intense crisis, I now understand that I am suffering complex mental health issues and have begun ongoing treatment." You can share this post! In a landmark moment, NeuralGarages VisualDub, a generative AI technology, has made history by becoming the first-ever implementation of generative AI for multilingual lipsync of dialogues in advertising. With its language-agnostic lipsync capabilities, NeuralGarage helped Amazon create native, authentic visual dubbing for their Amazon Daily and Amazon Fresh advertising creatives that recently went live on TV and digital platforms. NeuralGarage, a deep tech startup from Bengaluru, has managed to break new ground in the advertising and marketing domain with its generative AI technology, VisualDubTM, that helps with multilingual lipsync in content & media. Advertising creatives and other marketing content in India are usually produced and shot in one language (usually Hindi) and then dubbed into several different languages, making them look inauthentic to regional viewers. NeuralGarage helps repurpose those creatives by making them look native and local for regional consumers through its proprietary technology, VisualDub. The NeuralGarage team has collaborated with Amazon India for their Amazon Daily (Agency: Ogilvy) and Amazon Fresh (Agency: Media.Monks) ad campaigns that went live across TV and digital platforms. Its collaboration with the e-commerce giant represents a global first-use case of integrating generative AI technology in multilingual lipsync. VisualDub, being language agnostic, makes dubbed content look natural and syncs the lips and jaw movements of the actors within the video to make it more visually authentic. It helped Amazon India with visually dubbing its ad creatives into seven different regional languages. Mandar Natekar, Co-founder, and CEO NeuralGarage said There is a lot of news around what is possible with generative AI technology, but it takes a client like Amazon to back new tech into its business, actually walk the talk, and show the world what is possible. We are thrilled to collaborate with Amazon on these campaigns and showcase the power of our tech. It has always been our vision at NeuralGarage to harness the true potential of generative AI to make communication seamless & make dubbed content look visually authentic. I am thankful to Amazon India who gave a budding Indian startup like ours a chance to demonstrate the scope of VisualDub. We are committed to pushing the boundaries in advertising and marketing further with our proprietary tech and this is just the start! ace turtle, new Indias leading technology-driven retail company today announced the launch of California casual lifestyle apparel brand Dockers in the country. Introduced in 1986, the Dockers brand sparked a revolution in the way millions of men dressed around the world, shifting from the standard issue suit to a more casual look. More than 30 years later, Dockers embodies California style, bringing a full range of casual, versatile styles for men and women. Commenting on the launch, Nitin Chhabra, Chief Executive Officer of ace turtle said, We are excited to announce our long-term partnership with Dockers in India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Dockers is a casual California lifestyle brand with a presence across the globe and we intend to leverage our unique technology-driven operating model and omnichannel commerce expertise to take Dockers products to millions of Indian consumers through relevant online and offline channels. Our tech-enabled pan-India reach, data-driven approach, deep consumer understanding and investment into the brand will aim to unlock new opportunities presented by the dynamic Indian fashion retailing market. Sharing the brands perspective, Dockers Chief Executive Officer Natalie MacLennan said, Dockers has been on an exciting journey over the last few years in its evolution to become a more casual, everyday lifestyle brand, and were proud of how well the brand is resonating with consumers. As we build on this momentum, were thrilled to expand into new markets and increase our store presence and digital reach across the globe, specifically in Asia. Through our partnership with ace turtle, were eager to launch the Dockers brand in India and leverage ace turtles omnichannel technology expertise to further penetrate the market. LOreal Paris has announced the third annual winner of the Lights On Women Award, chosen from the Short Films Competition and La Cinefs selection at Cannes. Fatima Kaci from France took the top honour for her 30-minute film, La Voix des Autres (The Voice of Others), from the 14 selected short films. The film depicts the story of a Tunisian interpreter in France translating the stories of refugees whose voices raise questions about her own identity. The final choice was announced in person by Academy Award-winner, LOreal Paris spokesperson and Juror of the 2023 edition, Kate Winslet, during a special prize ceremony at the Cinema de Demain dinner held at the Cannes Film Festival on May 26, 2023. This meaningful event for film industry professionals was also attended by fellow LOreal Paris spokespeople Leila Bekhti, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Jane Fonda, Eva Longoria, and Andie MacDowell. In recognition of her accomplishment, Kaci will receive financial support of 20,000 from LOreal Paris. It takes incredible grace and skill to be able to trust in the actors enough to let the camera follow their eyes, and to tell a story that leaves a mark on your soul, says Kate Winslet, of Kacis winning film. La Voix des Autres (The Voices of Others) is a simple but emotionally complex tale of a mothers resilience in the face of profound personal loss. This film filled every frame with the honest eyes and a perfectly pitched lead performance from Amira Chebli. To see such agony, so internalized, made this film real and deeply thought provoking. A simple story about how a woman's own empathy for others, becomes her greatest emotional strength. A phenomenal short film. I wanted more! As an Official Partner of the Cannes Film Festival for 26 years, LOreal Paris has always been a feminist brand that champions womens empowerment, specifically in the world of film through its privileged relationship with iconic actresses who embody the values of the brand. In 2021, LOreal Paris took this commitment to the next level, with the launch of a dedicated annual award program for promising female short filmmakers. Delphine Viguier-Hovasse, Global Brand President, LOreal Paris, adds, This third edition of the Lights On Women Award continues LOreal Paris action toward achieving gender parity in the industry. We remain committed to supporting female filmmaking here in Cannes for a future where women claim their rightful place in cinema. Delphine Viguier-Hovasse, Fatima Kaci, Kate Winslet at the Cinema de Demain dinner. The Cinema de Demain dinner is held annually for film industry professionals and is dedicated to young creators. Kacis achievement follows last years Lights On Women Award winner, Mai Vu of Vietnam, whose 9-minute film, Spring Roll Dream, depicts the simple yet profound importance of family tradition. A man was arrested Wednesday, nearly a month after police say he fired a weapon in an attempt to break up a fight between two women, but instead wounded three others. Michael Okeef Royal, 34, is in the Mobile Metro Jail, charged with three counts of 1st-degree assault. He is also facing revocation of his probation from three previous convictions, according to the jail docket. Shortly before 7 p.m. on May 2, police were summoned to University Hospital on a report of two women with gunshot wounds. By the time officers got there, a third victim who had been grazed by a bullet in the same incident had arrived via personal vehicle. Police learned there had been an altercation between two females in the 1000 block of Griffin Circle. In an attempt to break up the fight, man -- later identified as Royal -- fired his weapon, with the three victims being inadvertently struck by gunfire. The women who were wounded were not involved in the original altercation. All three were treated for what police described as non-life-threatening injuries. Lucy the bloodhound passed away in April, not long after she celebrated her 13th birthday. But her image still adorns the van Dr. Mark Colicchio drives as a mobile veterinarian. Photos of her standing in the Battle House lobby advertise that the posh downtown Mobile hotel welcomes dogs. She was also the face of Save a Stray, the nonprofit founded by Stephanie Eads-Williamson and Dr. Jeni Knizley. She lives on in another way, as well. Save a Stray is holding a fundraiser in her honor, with a couple of matching gifts intended to make donations go further toward its efforts to spay and neuter pets. Stephanie still tears up when Lucys name is mentioned. She started out as Lucys foster mom and ended up keeping her because Lucy a stubborn 80-pound hound with long ears and warm brown eyes who pretty much always got what she wanted chose the Williamson home as her own. [To read more good news about Alabama, sign up for our This is Alabama Newsletter.] To say that Stephanie, the president of Save a Stray, and her husband of nearly 30 years, Garrett, are dog-friendly is an understatement. The Williamsons are DINKS, Garrett explains dual income, no kids so their dogs are truly family. Everything about their house, which even sits on, of course, Dog River in Mobile, is designed for dogs comfort and easy cleanup for humans, from the tile floors to the water spigots that dispense water right into bowls. Animal rescue is what I was put on earth to do, says Stephanie. Her foster-based organization lists dogs locally and transports them to seven northern states every other week. Recently Save a Stray has shifted its focus to spay and neuter, with a goal of helping with 90 surgeries per month. Read more: These photos of future vets and their pets are so inspiring Of all the dogs the Williamsons have known and loved over the years, Lucy was the biggest character, says Garrett, who often brought her with him to work at Personal Edge Fitness. She touched more lives than any, he says. Lucy was incredible at reading people. Lucy, wearing her double strand of pearls, greets children at Dauphin Way United Methodist Church in Mobile, Alabama. (Photo courtesy Garrett Williamson) No one knows where Lucy came from, or how she ended up inside a Walmart Supercenter in west Mobile when she was about a year and a half. Someone had taken care of her; shed been spayed and had undergone hip surgery, leaving her with a slight limp. She was taken to the city animal shelter, where she was not doing well, not eating, says Stephanie. But when Stephanie brought Lucy home as a foster, the dog seemed happy and content. We adopted her out three times, and she was returned three times. Each time, Lucy would intentionally misbehave even though the homes seemed perfect for her. Apparently, Lucy had decided that Stephanie was her mom, and that was that. Lucy made all her own decisions, says Garrett. Not long after they officially adopted her, they took her on a trip where she followed her nose off a 20-foot cliff. Its a long story that involved a freezing night Garrett and his brother-in-law spent with her in a canyon next to a fire before floating a canoe to take her to a vet in Birmingham. For a month after that, as she recovered, Stephanie slept on the floor with her. But she was worth it, says Garrett. We learned what a character she is. Meanwhile, Lucy learned the meaning of unconditional love from her new humans. She now had this couple wrapped around her large paw, and she would never leave them again. She learned how to nudge them toward anywhere she wanted to be especially if it was in the direction of someone she suspected someone needed her unique canine compassion. There was something special about Lucy She was a big dog with a big personality, says Stephanie. When we had her out, she drew attention. Lucy loved to be among people. She served as a greeter at Dauphin Way United Methodist Church at their PAWS for Compassion pet ministry on the second Sunday of each month, while wearing a set of pearls around her neck. Lucy and Stephanie also were trained to volunteer in the pet therapy program at Mobile Infirmary, where they visited patients on Wednesdays. She could tell if somebody needed her, says Garrett. In the hospital, there were patients who hadnt responded to anyone but would respond to Lucy. Patients did better the day Lucy visited and the day after, says Stephanie. There was something special about Lucy. After leaving the hospital, Stephanie would take Lucy to Cammies Old Dutch Ice Cream Shoppe for one of her favorite treats, a vanilla ice cream cone. After volunteering as a therapy dog at Mobile Infirmary, Lucy enjoyed an ice cream cone from Cammie's Old Dutch in Mobile, Alabama. (Photo courtesy Garrett Williamson) As much as she enjoyed meeting new people, she also loved to be at home, lounging on a leather sofa, going for boat rides and hanging out with furry friends. The transports were Lucys toys, Garrett remembers. She would have a field day playing. She did get into occasional mischief, sometimes wading into the water and coming to the door wearing muddy boots, or venturing to friendly neighbors houses for her other favorite treats of bacon or hot dogs. Because of her incredible nose, Lucy was on call for three hunting camps if they lost a deer, says Garrett. In 2017, Lucy joined her parents and her four dog siblings on a road trip to Star Valley, Wyoming, a journey that became a family tradition every spring. Garrett and Stephanie documented their travels on their YouTube channel, 5 dogs and 2 humans. In each episode, the couple would pile into the front seat of their Ford Expedition, their dogs visible behind them, reading a script Garrett wrote about that days adventures, which they called Happy Tails Too. Half the fun was getting there, says Garrett. Stephanie would research dog-friendly places to visit along the route, from restaurants to hotels to dog parks and more. On those annual trips, Lucy saw 19 states. Stephanie and Garrett Williamson and their five dogs posed for a family portrait during one of their annual visits to Star Valley, Wyoming. (Photo by BabyDoll Photography 307) She also had her own Facebook page, Wheres Lucy now? As much of a character as she was, she needed to be shared, says Garrett. Toward the end of her life, when Lucy was diagnosed with cancer, Stephanie talked to no less than seven vets, Garrett says. It was the worst prognosis we could get, Stephanie adds hemangiosarcoma. Lucy started chemotherapy and had her spleen removed. Soon, she stopped eating and couldnt seem to get comfortable. Ive always told people that the last act of kindness you can show your dog is to let them go peacefully, says Stephanie, wiping her eyes. Once again, Lucy made that decision, says Garrett. She made the decision it was time to go. For now, there are two people and four dogs in the Williamson household. Stephanie and Garrett are waiting for the next dog to choose them. Lucy left some big paws to fill, he says. We want another big dog, and its got to be a character. There was only one Lucy, and we were very, very, very blessed to have her. To donate to Save a Stray in Lucys memory, go here. More stories about inspiring Alabamians: How this Alabama teacher is rebuilding a high school band program This Alabama mural painter brings small towns together This 12-year-old has spent half his life helping the homeless Vienna Symphony Orchestra returns to China Xinhua) 13:31, May 31, 2023 BEIJING, May 30 (Xinhua) -- The world-renowned Vienna Symphony Orchestra kicked off its China tour on Monday night with a three-day performance at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Beijing. During the concerts, the orchestra presented the Beijing audience with classical pieces by famous musicians, including Beethoven, Mozart, and Brahms. The performances featured the 74-year-old celebrated Hungarian conductor Adam Fischer, who performed at NCPA for the first time, and the violin virtuoso Julian Rachlin. "We have felt the enthusiasm of the Chinese audience," said Jan Nast, intendant of the orchestra, during an interview. "They are the kind of audience that conductors and musicians from around the world eagerly anticipate." It is the orchestra's third visit to China, after the previous ones in 2014 and 2017, respectively. Founded in 1900, the orchestra is one of Austria's highest-level representatives of classical music. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The FBI El Paso Field Office has launched a Facebook account, FBI-El Paso, as another tool to communicate with our West Texas communities. FBI El Paso's account will be one of three FBI social media accounts across the nation. FBI - Federal Bureau of Investigation was launched in 2009 and FBI Seattle's recently launched in February of 2023. READ NEXT: Convicted Felon Indicted for Gadsden Armed Bank Robbery "In the global environment we live in, social media is the preferred method of communication for a large number of our population, both young and old," said Jeffrey R. Downey, special agent in charge of the FBI El Paso Field Office. "Social media has become the principal source for news and information. It's the right thing for us to expand our use of social media to more effectively engage the public we serve." The FBI launched its presence in social media in 2008. FBI El Paso launched its English Twitter account in 2011 and it's Spanish Twitter account (@miFBIElPaso) in November of 2022. Currently, @FBIElPaso has approximately 27,300 followers and the @miFBIElPaso has approximately 49 followers. Today, the FBI has more than 70 separate social media accounts or sites. FBI El Paso uses social media to post wanted fugitives' photos, arrest and criminal charge information, safety tips and messages, community outreach efforts and events, and more. If you believe you are a victim of or have information about a federal crime, you can submit a tip at tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI. Please follow us on Facebook (FBI-El Paso), Twitter: @miFBIElPaso and @FBIElPaso! READ MORE: Second Defendant Charged with Second Degree Murder in Death of Navajo Man @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte has signed legislation giving Native American families preference in fostering and adopting Native children involved with child protective services, a proactive move to protect such rights as the U.S. Supreme Court considers a case that could undercut them nationally. Gianforte signed the Montana Indian Child Welfare Act on Monday after it passed the Legislature by a wide margin. Governors in Wyoming and North Dakota signed similar laws this spring, while a proposal in Utah stalled in the state Legislature. The measures are modeled after the federal Indian Child Welfare Act, which Congress passed in 1978 in response to the alarming rate at which Native American and Alaskan Native children were taken from their homes by public and private agencies and subjected to physical and emotional abuse. A pending Supreme Court challenge has put the federal law in jeopardy. During a hearing last year, justices seemed likely to leave in place most of the law that gives preference to Native American families in foster care and adoption proceedings involving Native children. The law also requires child welfare agencies to provide services to help Native families move toward reunification. The Montana bill was amended by lawmakers to sunset after two years. Its Democratic sponsor, Rep. Jonathan Windy Boy, said he initially introduced the measure a decade ago after some state district court judges were not following the federal law in Native children custody cases. The new law includes specific language that strengthens the protections of the child, Windy Boy said. Gianforte was scheduled to be in Texas Tuesday for a Republican Governors Association meeting. His spokesperson could not be immediately reached for comment. Ten other states already had similar laws in place, including New Mexico, whose law took effect this year. They too could be affected depending on how the justices rule. Most federally recognized tribes want the act upheld, fearing that an adverse ruling could dismantle a whole range of federal laws based on their political relationships with the U.S. government. Opponents include non-Native families who have tried to adopt American Indian children in emotional legal cases. A handful of white families claim the federal law is based on race and is unconstitutional under the equal protection clause. They claim it puts tribal interests ahead of children. Lower courts have split on the issue. 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. In Montana, nearly 11% of all children are Indigenous, but they made up 37% of those in foster care in 2021, according to the National Indian Child Welfare Association. About 9% of North Dakota children are Indigenous, a state where they account for 44% of the children in foster care, the association said. Montana lawmakers added language to the final bill indicating they intend to revisit the issue in future sessions. The Legislature does not expect this to be the final word on how we deal with Indian child welfare issues or how we seek to provide for all of Montanas children within the child protection system, they wrote. By MATTHEW BROWN Associated Press An 11-year-old boy shot by a Mississippi police officer after he called 911 earlier this month sang quietly to himself and cried out that he did not want to die in the moments after he was struck by the gunfire. Aderrien Murry was shot in the chest by an officer, identified as Sgt. Greg Capers, who responded to his home in Indianola early the morning of May 20. The boy called authorities around 4 a.m., after his mothers ex-boyfriend unexpectedly showed up at their front door. During an interview on Good Morning America Tuesday, Aderrien said he had his hands up over his head when the responding officers arrived, but they still shot him anyway. He was left with a collapsed lung, lacerated liver and fractured ribs, injuries that kept him in the hospital for five days. It felt like a Taser, like a big punch to the chest, he said, recalling then how he ran toward his mother, who was outside at the time. I was bleeding bleeding from my mouth. Then I would just remember singing a song. Aderrien told GMA he sang the words, No weapon formed against me prosper shall, which is a reference to a Bible verse, Isaiah 54:17: No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper. His mother, Nakala Murry, previously recalled hearing a gunshot and then watching her son fall to the ground as he attempted to reach her. He fell, bleeding, she said. I put pressure on it to stop, help stop the bleeding. While lying on the ground, Murry said her son told her, I dont wanna die. According to the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, which is investigating the incident, officers responded to a domestic disturbance at the home and a minor was significantly hurt from an officer-involved shooting. The results of the results of the probe will be shared with the Mississippi Attorney Generals Office. Capers was suspended in connection with the case on Monday, according to Indianola Mayor Ken Featherstone. ------- 2023 New York Daily News. Visit at nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Alabama legislators from both parties called Wednesday for final passage of a bill to exempt overtime pay from the state income tax. The bill, HB217 by House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, D-Huntsville, has already passed the House but is running short on time in the Senate. It would make pay for work in excess of 40 hours a week exempt from the 5% state income tax. It would apply to both private and public employees. Daniels said the purpose is to allow employees to bring home more money without their companies having to raise their pay and to encourage productivity and work during a time when businesses are struggling to fill jobs. . This is a simple proposal, Daniels said. This proposal rewards hard work. House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Rainsville, said he was glad to be part of the bipartisan support. I dont co-sponsor many bills, but this one I felt strongly about, Ledbetter said. Income taxes support public education in Alabama, and the bill is projected to reduce revenues to the Education Trust Fund by about $45 million a year. But lawmakers who spoke in favor of it said employees would spend the extra money that they take home on other items, contributing to sales tax revenues that support local governments as well as the ETF. Rep. Danny Garrett, R-Trussville, chairman of the House education budget committee, said the idea of exempting the overtime tax was innovative and would reward people who work. The bill says the exemption will expire after three years unless the Legislature extends it. That will provide a chance to evaluate the impact of the exemption because the idea has not been tried before. Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, said the bill would help rural communities and the businesses there because employees who travel elsewhere to work would spend their extra income close to home. For rural Alabama, this is a great bill, Singleton said. Sen. Sam Givhan, R-Huntsville, said he asked to co-sponsor the bill. Although the bill passed the House by a vote of 105-0, it is running out of time to pass the Senate. Only three days remain in the legislative session. The Senate education budget committee amended the bill Wednesday to place a $2,000 cap on the cap the amount of overtime exempt from the state income tax. The amended bill could be considered on the Senate floor Thursday. Related: Bill to require activated porn filters on cellphones gets late push in Alabama Legislature Alabama lawmakers are poised to pass legislation that enhances penalties for people who commit a crime while promoting the activity of a group of at least three people. Just dont call that group a gang. In Alabama, the term for the group of people who could face enhanced penalties is now a criminal enterprise. The change appears to be more than simple semantics. It is also enough to have generated unanimous support for the legislation in the Alabama Senate, and approval before the Alabama House Judiciary Committee. The committee backed the legislation -- SB143 -- on Wednesday, and the legislations sponsor anticipates the measure advancing out of the full House in the coming days. We didnt have a problem changing it from gang to criminal enterprise, said Alabama State Senator William Barfoot, R-Pike Road, the bills sponsor. He said the change occurred last month following a spirited debate over the issue in the Alabama Senate Judiciary Committee, which Barfoot chairs. Its all-encompassing, he said about the legislation and the change in terminology. We want to protect folks. Its an effort to identify those individuals who benefit a criminal enterprise system. I think its a valid change. Rep. Patrice McClammy, D-Montgomery, said, Can we stop calling it the gang bill then? Barfoot replied, Its the criminal enterprise bill. The change in terminology seems to have appeased members of the Alabama Black Caucus who in late April, expressed their discontent toward the legislation out of concern that it focused on street gangs and did not include a term that encompassed more groups like terrorist organizations. This was a tough one, said state Rep. Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa. The way it started to where it is now ... its a better piece of legislation. I know the way it started to where it is now was a long way. Defining criminal enterprises Barfoot said the legislation applies to all criminal groups, not just urban street gangs who, according to law enforcement in some of Alabamas largest cities, are partly responsible for a spike in violent crimes since the pandemic. The bill, when it was first dubbed the gang bill, was backed by Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, and had support from over 160 law enforcement officials in Alabama. The state, according to an April 11 letter signed by law enforcement officials, has no law on the books aimed at combatting or deterring gang activity or gang violence -- or criminal enterprises. A majority of states have some sort of definition for gangs that closely follows federal language, according to the National Gang Center. The federal definition labels a gang as an association of three or more individuals who collectively adopt some sort of group symbol. Barfoots legislation maintains several identifying criteria for someone involved in a crime as a member of a criminal enterprise -- or in a gang under the bills previous iteration. Under SB143, the definitions of who constitutes a criminal enterprise are the same as a gang as defined by federal law. In order to received enhanced penalties, at least three or more of the criteria must be met. They include: Identification as a criminal enterprise member by a parent or guardian. Adopts a style of dress of a criminal enterprise Has a tattoo identified as used by a criminal enterprise. Adopts the use of a hand sign identified and used by a criminal enterprise. Is identified as a criminal enterprise member by a reliable informant. Is identified as a criminal enterprise member by physical evidence. Has been observed in the company of one or more known criminal enterprise members four or more times. Has authored any communication indicating responsibility for the commission of any crime by a criminal enterprise. The legislation then states that if anyone is found guilty of committing a crime for the purpose of benefitting, promoting or furthering the interest of a criminal enterprise, then the following sentencing will apply: Class A felonies will be punished not less than 25 years in prison. Class B felonies will become Class A felonies, and Class C felonies will become Class B felonies. What that means is that someone convicted under the new law will face longer prison terms. Class D felonies, the lowest level felony in Alabama, will be exempt from the enhancements. There are further enhanced sentencings if a crime committed to benefit a criminal enterprise occurs with a gun. They include: Anyone who knowingly possess a firearm to promote a criminal enterprise will be punished to a prison term no less than five years. If the firearm is brandished, the prison sentence is no less than seven years. If the firearm is discharged, the prison term is no less than 10 years. If the firearm possessed is a short-barreled rifle or a short-barreled shotgun, the imprisonment is not less than 10 years. If the firearm possessed is a machine gun, or is equipped with a firearm silencer, then the imprisonment is no less than 30 years. Debating definition Matthew Valasik, an associate professor in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Alabama, said the changes in the legislation appear to be a succumbing to the pressure of GOP lawmakers wanting to be more bipartisan and taking into account the racial profiling of the terminology of the initial legislation. Its probably a good thing, said Valasik, referring to the change from gang to criminal enterprise. It keeps it broader in that it doesnt create more bias and restricts law enforcement interpretation of applying the law as well. Thats a positive in keeping it a criminal enterprise than narrowing it to a street gang. Valasik, co-author of the 2020 book, Alt-Right Gangs: A Hazy Shade of White, said a criminal enterprise can also include far-right militias or motorcycle groups who would better fit into this broader categorization. At least one longtime political science professor and historian believes the changing definitions do not apply to most youth street gangs. Derryn Moten, chairman of the history and political sciences department at Alabama State University, said he believes criminal enterprise is worse than gangs because it suggests an organized crime syndicate whose main purpose is money, and not turf battles. Unless one is talking about the Crips or Bloods, most youth gangs, even in Alabama, are not organized crime syndicates, Moten said. Alabama congressional representatives are moving to block any new construction or office leasing in Colorado for the U.S. Space Command headquarters there, U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholts office confirmed today. The spending freeze would remain until an official decision is made on the commands permanent headquarters location, according to Aderholt press secretary Matt Reed. The measure to order the freeze is also being supported by other Alabama representatives including Democratic U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell. Aderholt is responding to news reports that new spending at the Colorado base and a cut in Space Command headquarters personnel are undermining the official basing process. NBC News also reported May 17 that some defense and congressional officials also believe President Bidens administration wants to stop the commands move to Alabama in part because of concerns about the states restrictive abortion law. The measure to block spending on the headquarters in Colorado will be added to the annual federal spending bill for FY 2024 already passed by the House Appropriations subcommittee for Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, Reed said. Colorado Springs and Huntsville were finalists in the Pentagons ranking of bases that wanted to host the Space Commands permanent headquarters. The command was started in Colorado Springs, but the large Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Ala., ranked best in the final comparison. Redstone already holds multiple military commands and offices, NASAs Marshall Space Flight Center and a growing FBI complex. In the original base selection process, the Air Force sent a team of experts to the two finalist cities for a qualitative and comprehensive review. The team looked at the two bases and their surrounding communities in terms of whether the bases had room to grow and to host employees and their families. Factors included schools, medical care, cost of living, a healthy jobs market for spouses and the availability of quality, affordable housing off base. The Air Force designated Huntsville its preferred site after that review. A jury found That 70s Show star Danny Masterson guilty of two out of three counts of rape Wednesday in a Los Angeles retrial in which the Church of Scientology played a central role. The jury of seven women and five men reached the verdict after deliberating for seven days spread over two weeks. They could not reach a verdict on the third count, that alleged Masterson raped a longtime girlfriend. They had voted 8-4 in favor of conviction. Masterson was led from the courtroom in handcuffs. The 47-year-old actor faces up to 30 years in prison. His wife, actor and model Bijou Phillips, wept as he was led away. Other family and friends sat stone-faced. I am experiencing a complex array of emotions relief, exhaustion, strength, sadness knowing that my abuser, Danny Masterson, will face accountability for his criminal behavior, one of the women, whom Masterson was convicted of raping at his home in 2003, said in a statement. The woman, whose count left the jury deadlocked, said in the statement: While Im encouraged that Danny Masterson will face some criminal punishment, I am devastated that he has dodged criminal accountability for his heinous conduct against me. Prosecutors, retrying Masterson after a deadlocked jury led to a mistrial in December, said he forcibly raped three women, including a longtime girlfriend, in his Hollywood Hills home between 2001 and 2003. They told jurors he drugged the womens drinks so he could rape them. They said he used his prominence in the church where all three women were also members at the time to avoid consequences for decades. Masterson did not testify, and his lawyers called no witnesses. The defense argued that the acts were consensual, and attempted to discredit the womens stories by highlighting changes and inconsistencies over time, which they said showed signs of coordination between them. If you decide that a witness deliberately lied about something in this case, defense attorney Philip Cohen told jurors, going through their instructions in his closing argument, You should consider not believing anything that witness says. The Church of Scientology played a significant role in the first trial but arguably an even larger one in the second. Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo allowed expert testimony on church policy from a former official in Scientology leadership who has become a prominent opponent. Tensions ran high in the courtroom between current and former Scientologists, and even leaked into testimony, with the accusers saying on the stand that they felt intimidated by some members in the room. Actor Leah Remini, a former member who has become the churchs highest-profile critic, sat in on the trial at times, putting her arm around one of the accusers to comfort her during closing arguments. Founded in 1953 by L. Ron Hubbard, the Church of Scientology has many members who work in Hollywood. The judge kept limits on how much prosecutors could talk about the church, and primarily allowed it to explain why the women took so long to go to authorities. The women testified that when they reported Masterson to church officials, they were told they were not raped, were put through ethics programs themselves, and were warned against going to law enforcement to report a member of such high standing. They were raped, they were punished for it, and they were retaliated against, Deputy District Attorney Reinhold Mueller told jurors in his closing argument. Scientology told them theres no justice for them. You have the opportunity to show them there is justice. The church vehemently denied having any policy that forbids members from going to secular authorities. The Associated Press does not typically name people who say theyve been sexually abused. Testimony in this case was graphic and emotional. Two women, who knew Masterson from social circles in the church, said he gave them drinks and that they then became woozy or passed out before he violently raped them in 2003. The third, Mastersons then-girlfriend of five years, said she awoke to find him raping her, and had to pull his hair to stop him. The issue of drugging also played a major role in the retrial. At the first, Olmedo only allowed prosecutors and accusers to describe their disorientation, and to imply that they were drugged. The second time, they were allowed to argue it directly, and the prosecution attempted to make it a major factor, to no avail. The defendant drugs his victims to gain control, Deputy District Attorney Ariel Anson said in her closing argument. He does this to take away his victims ability to consent. Masterson was not charged with any counts of drugging, and there is no toxicology evidence to back up the assertion. His attorney asked for a mistrial over the issues inclusion. The motion was denied, but the issue is likely to be a major factor in any potential appeal. These charges date to a period when Masterson was at the height of his fame, starring from 1998 until 2006 as Steven Hyde on Foxs That 70s Show the show that made stars of Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis and Topher Grace. Masterson had reunited with Kutcher on the 2016 Netflix comedy The Ranch, but was written off the show when an LAPD investigation was revealed in December 2017. No, that loud boom you heard this evening wasnt a truck crashing into a pole down the road from your house. And nothing has unexpectedly fallen inside your garage. But Baldwin County residents took to social media this evening to report hearing a similar loud boom shortly after 10 p.m. The sound was likely the sound of a sonic boom from the landing of a space capsule in the Gulf of Mexico hundreds of miles away near Panama City, Florida. Before landing, the capsule lit up the night sky across Alabama, judging from social media posts. The private flight carrying two Saudi astronauts and two other passengers returned to Earth after a nine-day trip to the International Space Station, the Associated Press reported. The SpaceX capsule carrying the four passengers parachuted into the Gulf of Mexico, just off the Florida Panhandle, 12 hours after undocking from the orbiting lab, according to AP. Heard a loud boom in Daphne about 15 minutes ago. Thought it was a car crash down the road from the house. Checks social media and the talk is flying around about a sonic boom from re-entry of the Axiom Mission 2 Space Capsule landing in the Gulf. Thats quite the crash. John Sharp (@JohnSharp99) May 31, 2023 Thought someone kicked my door about 5 minutes ago. Come to find out it was this, a Pensacola resident posted on Facebook. Anyone just hear a loud boom? Shook my windows. In Quail Creek, a Fairhope resident posted. SpaceX tweeted that the Dragon splashed down shortly after 10 p.m.: After 10 days in orbit, Dragon and the Ax-2 crew return to Earth pic.twitter.com/v7Pounh2tV SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 31, 2023 Images of the capsules landing toward the Gulf -- and the possible resulting boom -- also circulated on social media as well. Just heard a huge boom, thought something fell upstairs, immediately reached out to neighborsthey blamed it on their kids but being a veteran I knew it was something bigger @SpaceX @elonmusk #pensacola pic.twitter.com/4pH0nxR2bJ Tr3ndy Jon (@Tr3ndyJon) May 31, 2023 @elonmusk On behalf of the residents on the Alabama gulf coast ...your spacex landing scared the hell out of us! Things that go BOOM in the night. Dawn Smith (@texanNexile) May 31, 2023 Another look at the Space X Dragon capsule approaching splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico video from Deidra Shepherd in Pine Grove pic.twitter.com/a5b0q84EZc James Spann (@spann) May 31, 2023 Check out these videos of the SpaceX Crew Dragon Capsule as it passed over Panama City this evening. Share your view of it here... https://t.co/ZJ0XtM5gxx pic.twitter.com/ToEWI8ZQIf WJHG-TV (@WJHG_TV) May 31, 2023 Gov. Kay Ivey has signed into law a bill to prohibit the governments of China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia from purchasing certain property in the state. The bill, called the Alabama Property Protection Act, drew strong opposition from Chinese Americans living in Alabama after it passed the House. The bill initially banned Chinese citizens, including those living and working in Alabama, from buying property in the state. Opponents of the bill overflowed a committee room at a public hearing. They said the bill was a baseless attack on Chinese immigrants who work in Alabama in education, medical care, research and other fields, raise their families here, and contribute to their communities in multiple ways. The Senate changed the bill and passed it on a vote of 26-7, with Republican support and opposition from most Democrats. The House concurred with the changes, sending the bill to Ivey last week. The governor signed it Wednesday. The bill will prohibit foreign principals of concern from buying property used for agriculture or forestry or property that is within 10 miles of military installations and other critical infrastructure, which includes airports, seaports, power plants, water and wastewater treatment plants, gas terminals, and certain other facilities. Foreign principals of concern are identified as the governments, government officials, political parties, and political party members of the foreign countries of concern, which are listed in the bill as China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. Foreign principals of concern also include any country or government on the sanctions list of the U.S. Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Asset Control. Iveys office issued a statement about the bill. Across the United States, we have seen alarming instances of foreign entities purchasing large tracts of land, which could have severe consequences for our countrys national defense and economy, if no action is taken, Ivey said. From our forests to our farmland, Alabama is blessed with an abundance of highly valuable natural resources that must be protected. We also have a large military presence, and Alabama will always do our part to put the security of our country and our people first. The simple fact of the matter is that foreign governments have no business owning land in Alabama, and I am proud to sign this bill and ensure that will never be the case going forward. Although the Senate changed the House version of the bill that targeted individuals, concerns from the Chinese American community and others remain. Opponents of the bill said it would contribute to negative attitudes and hostility toward Chinese Americans and other Asian immigrants. They said the sentiment of the original bill, targeting Chinese citizens and failing to distinguish them from the Chinese government, had caused lasting damage. Yeqing Bao, a professor and chair of the Department of Marketing and Management in the College of Business at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, contacted lawmakers and urged them to vote against the bill. Bao was also at the public hearing where the Senate committee changed the bill. While I support Governor Ivey and our legislators goal of safeguarding our countrys national security and economy, the Bill itself is misaligned with that goal, Bao said in an email when asked for comments about Ivey signing the bill on Wednesday. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported that as of Dec. 31, 2021, foreign investors held an interest in approximately 40 million acres of U.S. agricultural land, including land used for forestry production, about 3.1% of all privately held agricultural land in the country. Canadian investors held the largest portion of foreign-owned agricultural and non-agricultural land in the United States, at 31%. That was followed by the Netherlands (12%), Italy (7%), United Kingdom (6%), and Germany (6%). Chinas holdings were slightly less than 1%, according to the USDA report. Bao noted that when Ivey announced an increase in exports by Alabama businesses in 2021, China was the No. 3 destination for those products, receiving a total of $3.2 billion and ranking behind only Germany and Canada. Our legislators should spend effort on coping with poverty rather than foreign acquisition of our agriculture land, Bao said. The USDA report showed Alabama tied for fourth among states in the percentage of agricultural land under foreign ownership, at 6.3%. That was behind Maine (20.1%), Hawaii (9.2%), and Washington (7.2%). Florida was also at 6.3%. A man in Kentuckys largest city is facing criminal charges after allegedly shooting his roommate during a dispute over a Hot Pocket, authorities say. Clifton Williams, 64, was arrested on assault charges Sunday after he accused his roommate of eating their last Hot Pocket and attacked him, shooting him in the buttocks, Louisville Metro Police Department officials told WLKY-TV. According to police, Williams started throwing tiles at the man after he realized the last microwaveable turnover was gone. He then shot him in the buttocks as he tried to escape, the TV station reported. Williams is prohibited from contacting the victim, who was taken to UofL Hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries. His bond was set at $7,500. The U.S. Coast Guard said Tuesday that its searching for a man who fell from a cruise ship off the coast of Florida. The 35-year-old passenger fell from the Carnival Magic ship about 185 miles east of Jacksonville on Monday, the service said in a statement. The Coast Guard is searching from the air and water. The Coast Guard said it had spent nearly 20 hours searching more than 4,000 square miles by Tuesday afternoon. The search by air was scheduled to pause at sunset, while ships would continue looking for the man through Tuesday night. The mans companion reported him missing late Monday afternoon, the statement said. Security footage on the ship shows that the man leaned over the railing of his stateroom balcony and dropped into the water around 4 a.m., according to the statement. Carnival said the Coast Guard released the ship from search efforts and told the captain to head back to port in Norfolk, Virginia. The ship can hold nearly 4,000 guests and is about 1,000 feet (300 meters) long. (Photo : VITALII MATOKHA/AFP via Getty Images) The UN's nuclear watchdog urged Ukraine and Russia to prevent a disaster at Ukraine's Zaporizhia nuclear facility. The UN nuclear chief emphasized the world's good fortune that a nuclear accident has not occurred in Ukraine and urged Moscow and Kyiv to commit to preventing any attack on Europe's largest nuclear power plant. Rafael Grossi reiterated to the United Nations Security Council what he said in March to the board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency: "We are tossing the dice, and if this persists, one day our luck will run out." UN Nuclear Chief Warns Russia, Ukraine Over Missile Attacks The IAEA director general stated that avoiding a nuclear accident is possible if five principles are adhered to at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power facility, where conflict has disrupted critical power supplies seven times, most recently last week. Grossi "respectfully and solemnly" urged Ukraine and Russia to observe the principles, stating that IAEA experts will begin monitoring Zaporizhzhia and that he will report publicly on any violations, according to SFGate. Since Russian forces commandeered Europe's largest nuclear power facility in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region over a year ago during Moscow's conflict with its neighbor, its safety has been a concern. It has been subjected to frequent bombardment, which has resulted in several power disruptions necessary for cooling the reactors. In anticipation of a Ukraine counteroffensive, concerns have grown that a nuclear catastrophe could occur amidst heightened military activity. After months of negotiations, Grossi briefed the United Nations Security Council in New York on his proposals to assure the facility's safety, per Barrons. Grossi emphasized that all structures and components essential to the safe and secure operation of the plant "should be protected from attacks or acts of sabotage." Grossi, who visited the plant in March, added that the IAEA intends to begin monitoring the principles on-site. Per Aljazeera, he urged both parties to adhere to five safeguarding principles for the power plant, implying that he had yet to secure their agreement on the matter. As one of the five principles, the IAEA chief urged that the plant not be used as a base for heavy weapons, such as multiple rocket launchers, artillery systems, munitions, and tanks, or for military personnel that could be used to initiate an attack from the plant. His five principles also stipulated that neither the plant nor its environment should be attacked. Grossi has spent months attempting to reach an agreement to reduce the risk of a catastrophic nuclear catastrophe resulting from military activity, such as shelling, at Europe's largest nuclear power facility, which is located in Ukraine and has been occupied by Russia for over a year. Before September, Zaporizhzhia supplied approximately 20% of Ukraine's electricity and continued functioning during the early months of Russia's offensive despite frequent bombardment. Read Also: Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida Orders Son To Resign After Public Outrage Over 'Inappropriate' Behavior Zaporizhzhia Crisis Grossi demanded in a briefing to the UN Security Council that the plant's off-site power supply remain available and secure, that all of its essential systems be shielded from attack or subversion, and that no action undermine these principles. The Russian and Ukrainian envoys at the United Nations each accused the other's country of the crisis in Zaporizhzhia, despite not rejecting the IAEA's principles. Vassily Nebenzia, Russia's UN ambassador, accused Kyiv and its Western allies of posing "threats" to the safety of the nuclear power plant. Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya of Ukraine stated, "We take notice of the director general's principles to guarantee nuclear safety and security at Zaporizhzhia." Kyslytsya desired a "complete demilitarization" of the territory surrounding the plant, but its efforts were unsuccessful. Grossi of the IAEA acknowledged the "distinct approaches" of the two parties. The crucial point, however, is that the minimum common denominator, which consists of these five fundamental principles, has received widespread support and no opposition. Before September of last year, Zaporizhzhia supplied approximately 20% of Ukraine's electricity and continued functioning during the early months of Russia's offensive despite frequent bombardment. The facility remains connected to the Ukrainian power infrastructure for its purposes, including cooling the reactors, despite none of its six Soviet-era reactors generating electricity. Related Article: Russia Launches Massive Missile Attack on Kyiv, Rare Daytime Attack Prompts Civilians Race for Cover @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Installment lender OneMain Financial has been ordered to pay $20 million over deceptive practices involving 25,000 customers, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau announced. The settlement includes payments and penalties for OneMains failure to refund interest for customers who cancelled purchases within what was advertised as the full refund period, and for deceiving borrowers about the need to purchase add-on products to receive a loan. Half of the settlement will be paid in refunds to customers, the other $10 million will go to CFPBs victim relief fund. OneMain pressured its employees to load up its loans with extra charges through false promises of easy cancellation with full refunds, CFPB Director Rohit Chopra said in a statement. We are ordering OneMain to refund borrowers it cheated and to clean up its business practices. OneMain denies the charges. READ MORE: Delete this app now: App on Google Play Store found spying on 50,000 users, experts warn Based in Evansville, Indiana, OneMain is one of the largest depository of personal installment lenders in the U.S. with more than 1,400 branches across 44 states, including Alabama. The company offers loans and makes extra profits by upselling borrowers with products such as roadside assistance, unemployment coverage, and identity theft coverage, CFPB said. According to federal officials, OneMain: Tricked borrowers into signing up for optional products and customers were led to believe they could not receive a loan without signing up for add-on products. If customers asked the products not be included, employees were expected to make it seem difficult to remove the products. Kept $10 million in interest charges after borrowers were told they would receive a full refund for some purchases if they canceled within 30 days. OneMain has been ordered to adjust its policies to make cancellation of add-on products easier, doubling the cancellation period to 60 days and include interest in refunds for extra purchases. READ MORE: When will student loan payments resume if debt ceiling bill is approved? Is forgiveness an option? In a statement, OneMain said the settlement involves less than 1% of its customers. OneMain is pleased to resolve this matter related to our refunding practices for some optional products, even though we do not agree with the CFPBs conclusions, the company said. We are deeply committed to our customers and doing things the right way. A Pascagoula man has been identified as the pilot in a fatal crash off the coast of Grand Isle, La., according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Jonthan C. George, 33, was a spotter pilot for Westbank Fishing and was flying for the company May 24 when the plane went down east of Grand Isle, according to the Associated Press. The pilots body was recovered just off the coast of Grand Isle, while the wreckage of the Cessna had not been found as of Tuesday, when the Jefferson Parish (La.) Coroners office identified George as the victim of the crash. George is believed to have been the only person aboard when the plane went down. George, a native of Virgnia, moved to the Mississippi coast in 2017. He is survived by his wife, Autumn George, and two young daughters. Authorities are offering a reward for information in a Montgomery shooting that left one man dead, and three other people injured. The shooting happened at 12:02 a.m. on Sunday, May 14, in the 5500 block of Atlanta Highway. Montgomery police responding to a call of shots fired found 28-year-old Jarquis Willis critically wounded. He was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. While at the hospital, investigators found two additional men and a woman had also been shot in the same incidents. They had arrived at the hospital in a private vehicle. The men sustained non-life-threatening injuries, while the womans wounds were more serious. No additional details surrounding the shooting have been released. Central Alabama Crime Stoppers announced Wednesday it is offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to the identity and arrest of a suspect. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 334-215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1-Stop (334-251-7867). Tips can also be made via the agencys P3-tips app. Warning: This article contains graphic, sexually explicit language. Tarrant City Councilman Tommy Bryant has been found innocent of a criminal charge for punching Mayor Wayman Newton late last year. Bryant, 78, was charged with third-degree assault a misdemeanor for the punch, which happened the parking lot of Tarrant City Hall Nov. 7, 2022, following a contentious meeting over Newtons firing of the citys fire chief. Bryants attorney, James Ward, argued before Jefferson County District Judge Katrina Ross that Newtons fighting words vulgar, sexual comments made by Newton to Bryant about Bryants wife led to the punch. The judge agreed. After a bench trial last week which means Ross would decide Bryants fate, not a jury Ross issued an order adjudicating Bryant not guilty. The court is in the opinion that any reasonable person would consider the words stated to the defendant regarding his wife as fighting words, Ross wrote in her ruling. Ward on Wednesday said Bryant is pleased with the not guilty verdict. The good people of Tarrant should not tolerate the vulgarity and lack of decency shown by their mayor to women, Ward said. Newton said while he is disappointed with the judges ruling, he will continue to serve the citizens of Tarrant with the utmost integrity and professional demeanor. While in 2023, my colleague still continues to use racial slurs such as the n-word and boy when referring to African Americans, I stand ready to continue to work with Councilor John Tommy Bryant and the entire city council for the advancement of citizens and stakeholders of the City of Tarrant,' Newton said. The altercation between Bryant and Newton, who have been at odds since Wayman was elected as the citys first Black mayor, happened at 8:20 p.m. that Monday. Tarrant Police Chief Wendell Major who the mayor recently suspended until the council insisted that he be reinstated detailed in court documents and again on the stand Tuesday, March 23, what he said happened that night. Tarrant City Councilman Tommy Bryant and Mayor Wayman Newton Major reported that he escorted Bryant to his vehicle after a long and turbulent council meeting. While the two were speaking at Bryants car, Newton began to approach them and Bryant told the police chief, I think the mayor wants you. Major turned to leave, and Bryant told him to have a good evening. Major said, Same to you, sir, and be careful. Mayor Newton said something at the same time I spoke to Bryant which I did not understand, Major said in the report. Bryants attorney in court alleged that Newton said, (Expletive) you, several times to Bryant, to which Bryant replied, Im cheap tonight- do you have a quarter? At that point, according to the police chief, Newton said, I prefer your wife. She is cleaned out and I wont have to worry. Bryant then stepped in front of the chief and asked Newton what he said, to which the mayor replied, I prefer your wife. She is cleaned out. I wont have to worry. I can nut all in it. It was then that Bryant swung his right arm with a fist, Major said, striking Newtons chin. Major said he then grabbed Bryant by the shoulders and got between Newton and Bryant. Tarrant police released surveillance video allegedly showing Councilman Tommy Bryant punching Mayor Wayman Newton following Monday's City Council meeting. Bryant was then informed he was under arrest and taken first to the city jail, and then the Jefferson County Jail. Newton was checked out by paramedics on the scene. The mayor testified in court about the incident, claiming that he believed Bryant was propositioning him. I remember him saying he was cheap and would give it to me however I wanted it, Newton said. I told him, I dont get down like that, I much preferred his wife. Im not gay.' Under questioning by the prosecutor, Newton said he did not make any movement or threats toward Bryant before Bryant punched him. I was actually shocked, Newton said. He added that his face was swollen, and he sustained a cut on the inside of his cheek that was bleeding. He said he went to the emergency room the next day but didnt have time to wait to see a doctor. I took another aspirin and toughed it out, Newton said. The altercation was captured on surveillance video, which was played in court. Under cross examination, Newton was asked what he meant when he said Bryants wife, Nancy Bryant, was cleaned out. Newton said it meant that she was past menopause. Asked what the phrase nut all in it, meant, the mayor said it meant ejaculate in her vagina. Ward then said that following the punch, Newton raised his fist describing it as giving a Rocky. Do you remember dancing up and down like a prize fighter? Ward asked the mayor. Newton replied that it was his way of resisting hitting Bryant back. The mayor described what he said to Bryant about his wife as just words, and didnt warrant physical violence. Ward asked Newton if he asked the police chief to alter the report regarding what the mayor said to Bryant that night. Both Newton and the chief testified that the mayor did not ask him to change the police report. Ward also asked Newton about his suspension of the chief. Major has previously said their relationship changed after that night and, ultimately, he was put on suspension. Newton testified that what Major put in the police report had nothing to do with his suspension. I have a concern that the chief is underreporting crimes, he said, adding that he has asked state and federal investigators to look into the matter. Ward told the court that fighting words is a legal defense. Prosecutors contend what happened that night meets the elements of the crime with which Bryant is charged. Bryant did not take the stand, and his defense did not call any witnesses. Neither side put on closing arguments. Bryant and Newton have a long-standing feud. In August 2021, Newton was arrested after Bryant signed a misdemeanor warrant against him for harassing communications. Newton was acquitted in that case, as well as a charge of misdemeanor assault against the citys former police chief. In that 2021 case, Bryant accused Newton of shouting an expletive F#*&- several times, and then, F#*& your wife multiple times and finally saying, Im going to F#*& your wife several times as well as some other sexually explicit comments. Tommy John is bringing its first Alabama store to Birminghams The Summit. The store, expected to open in July, will be located at the east entrance near Lululemon. It is the companys sixth location, with two more expected to open later this year. The chain specializes in mens and womens underwear and apparel, such as its Cool Cotton collection, Air Collection, and offers a selection of bras, loungewear and apparel. Theres no better way to experience the Tommy John brand than through a physical retail store, co-founder and CEO Tom Patterson said. Were so excited to bring that experience to The Summit where consumers can get a firsthand look and feel of Tommy Johns amazing products. Several high profile names have been added to The Summit this year, including womens fashion franchise Evereve, denim apparel retailer Buckle, jewelry store Pandora, Emmy Squared Pizza and Nordstrom Rack. We cannot wait to open our doors to the Birmingham community alongside so many other great brands, Erin Fujimoto, co-founder of Tommy John, said. The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to rule in June in a case that could result in Alabama redrawing its seven Congressional districts and could affect other states in how the Voting Rights Act is applied. Individual voters and organizations filed the lawsuit in 2021, challenging the district map approved by the Alabama Legislature after the 2020 census. The plaintiffs alleged that the map violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act (VRA), which prohibits election laws and procedures that are racially discriminatory. A key contention was that Black residents make up 27% of Alabamas population, but only one of the seven Congressional districts, or 14%, had a majority Black population. A panel of three judges held a seven-day hearing last year and ruled in favor of the plaintiffs. They ordered the Legislature to redraw the map with a second district that had a majority Black or near majority Black district before the 2022 elections. The U.S. Supreme Court put a hold on the ruling at the request of Alabama election officials, who argued, in part, that it came too late for last years elections. That allowed the map to stay in place last year. But the justices decision on whether the plan violates the Voting Rights Act is pending. Lawyers for both sides argued before the Supreme Court in October. Evan Milligan, executive director of the organization Alabama Forward and a lead plaintiff, said the Voting Rights Act, passed by Congress in 1965, was weakened by the Supreme Courts 2013 decision in another Alabama case, Shelby County v. Holder. The Shelby County decision ended the requirement for Alabama and other states with a history of racial discrimination on voting to seek preclearance from the Justice Department on election law changes. Milligan said the decision in the current case, called Allen (for Secretary of State Wes Allen) v. Milligan, will determine the viability of the VRA in stopping discrimination in the coming years. If the court rules in our favor it will affirm some of the existing protections that we have on the books, Milligan said. These are certainly protections that many feel need to be stronger. But it would recognize what that minimum, what that ground level floor is. Now if we lose, youre looking at what departing from that floor looks like. Its going to be either one extreme or the other. Alabamas district map has had six majority white districts and one majority Black district since 1992, when a federal court ordered the state to draw a majority Black district. Alabama had an all-white Congressional delegation from 1877 to 1992. Since 1992, the state has had six white representatives and one Black representative in the U.S. House. Lawyers representing state officials and defending the current map have argued that it is similar to those adopted after the census in 2000 and the census in 2010, which were both precleared by the Justice Department. The states lawyers said the Legislature drew the current map with race-neutral criteria, making changes to adjust to the population shifts needed after the 2020 census. They argued that the three-judge panel that ruled in favor of the plaintiffs made a legal error in their interpretation of the VRA, saying that to draw a second majority Black district would require race-based sorting, or putting race ahead of all other considerations. The three-judge courts view of the VRA makes VRA compliance irreconcilable with the U.S. Constitution, lawyers for the state wrote. A map that starts with a non-negotiable racial target of two majority-black districts and that can be drawn only when race is prioritized, goes far beyond Section 2s mandate of an equally open political process. Nothing in Section 2 grants Plaintiffs a right to a predetermined number of majority-minority districts that can exist only when race subordinates traditional districting principles, lawyers for the state wrote. Milligan said the three-judge panels ruling came after the plaintiffs presented a strong case that met key criteria set by Supreme Court precedents. Dont take my word for it, Milligan said. Read the lower courts opinion. There were three judges on that panel. Two were appointed by President Trump. They ruled unanimously that we overwhelmingly established that the state had violated Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act according to these tests that the court has created and Congress as well. The three-judge panel included U.S. Circuit Judge Stanley Marcus and District Judges Anna Manasco and Terry Moorer. Marcus was appointed by President Clinton in the 1990s, while Manasco and Moorer were appointed by President Trump. Based on the findings of fact and conclusions of law explained below, including our assessments of the credibility of expert witnesses, we conclude that the Milligan plaintiffs are substantially likely to establish that the Plan violates Section Two of the Voting Rights Act, they wrote last year. More particularly, we conclude that the Milligan plaintiffs are substantially likely to establish each part of the controlling Supreme Court test. Those factors included establishing that the Black population is large and geographically compact enough to constitute a reasonably configured second majority Black district, and that voting in the challenged districts is intensely racially polarized. Under the totality of the circumstances, including the factors that the Supreme Court has instructed us to consider, Black voters have less opportunity than other Alabamians to elect candidates of their choice to Congress, the judges wrote. Besides Milligan, other plaintiffs include Shalela Dowdy, Letetia Jackson, Khadidah Stone, Greater Birmingham Ministries, and the Alabama State Conference of the NAACP. You can see the case documents here. A woman was pulled from her burning Birmingham home Wednesday afternoon and hospitalized with serious injuries. Birmingham firefighter responded about 1 p.m. to the fire in the 1800 block of St. Charles Avenue on the citys west side. A woman was reported to be trapped inside, said Battalion Chief Tobias Jones. Crews entered the home and brought out the victim. Jones said she is in her 60s and was taken to Princeton Hospital in critical condition. Firefighters brought the blaze under control within 25 minutes. The cause of the fire is under investigation. A 38-year-old woman lost her hand in an industrial accident Friday in north Alabama, officials said. Decatur Fire Department personnel responded to Wolverine Industries at 2100 Market St. around 2:32 p.m. Friday, when they found the woman with a hand amputation, Lt. Brandon Sivley told WAAY. The woman, an employee at the aluminum extrusion plant, was sitting in a chair when EMS gave her a tourniquet and medicine to stabilize her, Sivley told the outlet. The employee was airlifted to UAB Hospital. A central Alabama woman has been convicted of murder in the shooting death of her boyfriend nearly seven years ago. Shantel Jalisa Boone, 34, of Greenville, was found guilty May 19 by a Butler County jury in the death of Charles Edward Curry, 31, court records showed. Greenville police officers responded to a shooting call on Linda Avenue at about 8:45 p.m. on March 11, 2016. At the scene, officers found Curry with a gunshot wound to the head. He was taken to LV Stabler Memorial Hospital and then was airlifted to UAB Hospital in critical condition, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Butler County Circuit Court Judge Cleveland Poole scheduled Boones sentencing for July 6. This is an opinion column We think it will never happen to us, but it does. We become the huffing and puffing man or woman hiking up the hill, trying to keep up with a group of younger walkers on the trail ahead. Or we become the shopper who digs in her purse for the coupon that must be in there somewhere, holding up the line and feeling their eye rolls. They didnt mean to get stuck in the old persons line. There was no sign for that. And so, when I was a smug 40 something, I never thought Id be in the old persons section of the Cotton Row Run, now in its 43rd year. I thought I could join the thousands of other runners that raced in one of the souths premier runs, attracting athletes from as far away as Kenya and as close by as Kentucky. There were approximately 3,500 runners in the race this year, held every Memorial Day regardless of weather. The race offers something for every kind of runner. Kids can jog the 1 mile; casual runners can choose the 3 mile, and everyone else can go for the 10K, the 6.2-mile course that winds through green and leafy neighborhoods before looping back to the starting place in Huntsvilles Big Spring Park where awards are given out and sweaty runners greet family members. And all along the course route, people come out to cheer the runners on, passing out cups of water or just clapping and shouting, You can do it! I used to be one of those cheerleaders until I decided to run myself. Id trained, a little bit. Id run most of the course, but not all at once. I had a running buddy, but she was in better shape. We agreed to go at our own pace during the race and not hold each other back. She sped ahead on mile 2 and stayed at the front of the pack for most of the race. It was then that I noticed another slow runner, a man old enough to be my grandfather. He carried a sign that read, Ask me how old I am! So onlookers did. He was seventy-five, he shouted, and there was an explosion of claps. As the Alabama sun bore down, some of us poured cups of water over our heads. Some of us wondered what might happen to the old man running in this heat. My little group of runnersI didnt know any of themfell further and further behind, and our mood turned sour as we heard the man shouting out his question. A runner next to me complained he could have a sign that said, Ask me when I had knee surgery. A woman said her sign would read, Ask me when I gave birth! (It turns out it was a few months ago.) The heat and effort of the whole thing made us irritable, and we hadnt even gotten to the steep hill that makes runners walk and walkers quit the race. Id like to say we held back so we could check on the old man, but we didnt. If wed held a sign it would have read, Please let me finish ahead of the old guy. So my little cluster of 10 or so people surged ahead and finished the race after the only ones clapping were close family members, including my own. But now I understand that the old man needed the boost he got from the crowds. He would be long dead by now, but if he were alive Id like to tell him I admire him for getting out there long after his age contemporaries were sitting, not running. Good for you, my sign might read. Then Id use the emoji sign for clapping. Contact Beth Thames at bethmthames@gmail.com (Photo : ELIJAH NOUVELAGE/AFP via Getty Images) A Missouri emergency room doctor who disappeared last week was discovered dead on Tuesday. The family of a missing Missouri doctor revealed that his body was discovered in northwest Arkansas. It has been over a week since Dr. John Forsyth vanished. As online rumors about his disappearance receive national attention, family members such as Richard have been working to locate the doctor who worked at Mercy Hospital in Cassville. Missing Missouri Doctor Found Dead These rumors include the notion that a court order for nearly $20,000 in child support and alimony is a motive for John's disappearance. The cryptocurrency company founded by Richard and John is the subject of a second unfounded urban legend, as per Fox 4. Richard stated that the notion that his brother's disappearance is related to the company is false. Richard added that they believed one individual was unhappy with John but was out of the country. He is confident the isolated incident is irrelevant to the investigation. The family said they had seen security footage depicting John and another vehicle at 7:15 a.m. Missing Missouri Dr. John Forsyth canceled his first shift without notice in nearly 15 years, prompting his employer to notify police, while his sister shared a sorrowful post about the desperate search for him. Mercy Hospital informed The Post on Tuesday that Forsyth, a 49-year-old father of seven, did not report to his emergency room post on May 21 at their Cassville facility, where he has worked for over a decade. Tiffany, Forsyth's sibling, stated that he is much more to her than just a dedicated healthcare professional. Reiterating the plea for the public's assistance in locating Forsyth, his sibling said that her world has been in "complete pandemonium" since the disappearance of her adored brother. Read Also: UN Urges Russia, Ukraine To Ban Attacks at Nuclear Power Plant as Countries' War Intensify John Forsyth Proposed to His Fiancee Before Disappearance Richard, the sister's other sibling, disclosed that Forsyth texted his fiancee the morning of his disappearance, stating that he would see her "a bit later." Richard echoed the hospital's assessment of his brother when he said that his brother's absence from work was entirely out of character. The missing man, described as 5 feet, 11 inches tall, and weighing 180 pounds, was last seen leaving the Cassville Mercy ER Clinic on Sunday morning wearing a black shirt and blue/gray trousers. He texted his betrothed at 7:00 a.m. but stopped responding within minutes and was later spotted strolling to the RV, where he slept in the hospital parking lot. Then, surveillance footage revealed Forsyth's Infiniti sedan pulling up to the Cassville Aquatic Center before a white SUV drew up alongside him. Forsyth's unattended vehicle was discovered on Sunday night with his keys, wallet, and passport inside. Extensive searches of the 90-acre wooded area surrounding the doctor's vehicle discovered less than a mile from the hospital, yielded no results. The doctor's family was distraught over his mysterious disappearance and created a Facebook page to locate him. Richard told Fox News Digital, "We were too late" after the family received the devastating news Tuesday night. Anyone with information is urged to call 417-847-4700 or 417-847-4911 to reach the Cassville Police Department. Related Article: At Least 9 Injured at Memorial Day Shooting in Florida Beach, Suspect Arrested, Another at Large @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. This is a guest opinion column Remember the school bus you rode as a kid? As soon as it took off, a large cloud of black smoke would billow from the tailpipe. The noxious fumes leaked in through the windows, filling the bus with diesel exhaust. There is a mountain of data that show the harmful long-term health effects of that exhaust. And yet, in Alabama our children are still riding the same kind of dirty, diesel-powered buses we rode as kids. We have the ability to do better, because we know more about the health effects of diesel than our parents did. Weve known for 20 years that diesel exhaust contains pollutants that are linked to asthma and other respiratory problems as well as cancer. Newer research suggests that exhaust can harm the brain and affect learning. Schoolkids get a concentrated dose of these toxic chemicals: a child riding inside a diesel school bus may be exposed to four times the level of diesel exhaust as someone riding in a car ahead of it. Low-income kids and children of color are hurt the most, because they often live in communities with lots of air pollution so school buses add to their burden of toxic exposures. And kids from low-income families are disproportionately exposed to diesel exhaust: 60% ride a bus to school, as opposed to 45% of students from wealthier families. In addition to knowing more about the health effects of diesel buses, we now have better technology. Electric buses offer a cleaner, healthier alternative to diesel. They dont produce tailpipe emissions, and the amount of greenhouse gas they produce is minimal. So, why havent we replaced our dirty diesel buses with clean electric ones? The first hurdle is always the same. Some will ask: Is the technology proven? Well, its been 15 years since Tesla released one of the first commercially available electric cars. Tesla is now one of the most highly valued companies in the world. Electric vehicles are increasingly used by businesses and the federal government, which is considering an all-electric fleet. Right here in Anniston, New Flyer is producing state-of-the-art electric buses on its high-tech assembly line. Its safe to say that this technology has come of age. The second hurdle is a big one: money. In Alabama and across the U.S., it will be expensive to replace our diesel buses with electric models. Moreover, school districts have established infrastructure around diesel vehicles, including mechanics and service contracts. Retooling that infrastructure for electric buses will be no small feat. But heres a secret: electric buses are cheaper to maintain than their diesel counterparts ($.19 vs $.82 per mile), so they could save money in the long run. And there is federal money available to make the switch. The 2021 infrastructure bill directed the Environmental Protection Agency to award $5 billion through 2026 for zero- or low-emission school bus purchases. Rural, low-income and tribal school districts are prioritized for funding through the EPAs Clean School Bus Program. And the EPA is partnering with the U.S. Department of Energy and Department of Transportation to provide technical assistance to districts that want to go electric. Last year, nearly 400 school districts were awarded a total of nearly $1 billion through the Clean School Bus Program to add more than 2,400 electric-powered buses to their fleets. But a glance at the map of awards shows that Alabama is lagging behind in applying for and receiving those federal grants (though a handful of Alabama school districts are on the waiting list.) Why? Short-sighted school boards, for one. School board members are typically elected every 3 to 5 years. Some avoid the optics of voting to make education more expensive because they wont be around to see the long-term benefits of that change. Second, the State of Alabama doesnt really want electric school buses. Well, technically, they want just 10% of the states school buses to be powered by alternative fuel). Whatever their reasons for discouraging the widespread adoption of electric buses, it will harm our childrens health in the long run. Third, remember that those most impacted by toxic diesel fumes are low-income kids and children of color. The powers that be in Montgomery are less likely to have kids who ride the bus, and less likely to have kids with asthma. Until the people making the rules are affected, real change wont occur. Its time for all Alabamans to acknowledge that theres a problem with the way we transport our kids. Parents, local school boards, state education departments, and the federal government should all become invested partners in solving this problem. If our kids health is a priority, if climate change is a priority, and if equity is a priority, we need to make the switch to clean, electric school buses. A school bus initiative that requires the switch and sets a deadline with financial support from local, state, and federal governments -- would be a great place to start. Dr. George Crawford MD is the founder and lead surgeon at The Crawford Clinic in Anniston, Alabama. In addition to running his multi-specialty clinic, Dr. Crawford sits on the board of trustees of the North East Regional Medical Center. He is a 2023 Climate Health Equity Fellow through the Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health. Sen. Tommy Tubervilles national security adviser reportedly stepped down from his post after claiming a Washington Post profile published Friday overstated his role in the senators hold on military nominations. Morgan Murphy told Politico he stepped down in deference to Tuberville, who was bothered by the Post pieces characterization that Murphy was instrumental in getting the senator to hold the nominations. Murphy, a Birmingham native, former Birmingham-Southern College graduate, bacon entrepreneur and 24-year Navy veteran, could not immediately be reached by AL.com to confirm the Politico report on his resignation. He is the boss and calls the shots and always has, Murphy told Politico. I am, was, at the end of the day, a staffer. I didnt take kindly to a perception otherwise. In the Post profile, Murphy said he presented Tuberville with a list of options on how to handle the Defense Departments new policies expanding abortion access when the senator decided to hold up the nominations. Tubervilles move has roiled members of both parties in the Senate. The holds also do not have the blessing of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Among the generals and admirals promotions being held up by Tubervilles block are Gen. C.Q. Brown, the presidents nominee for chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Sign up for John Hammontrees weekly newsletter The Conversation: Subscribe today to get a Wednesday exploration of what's leading the national conversation through ideas, perspectives and people that you're not likely to find in other media. Reckon is collaborating with KMSG and Candid, two groups that consult with non-profits, to profile some of the challenges facing philanthropic organizations across the country. Read more about this series here. Flozell Daniels, the president of the Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation (MRBF), is an advocate for social and economic justice in the South with years of experience leading dynamic and complex institutions for social good. Based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, MRBF partners with organizations and networks working to alleviate poverty and increase social and economic justice in 11 Southern states and has long been one of the Souths most prominent and high-scale funders in the areas of equity, justice and well-being. KMSG and Reckon spoke with Daniels about the role philanthropy can and should play when it comes to promoting equity and justice. Daniels highlighted the importance of building long-term connections and supporting networks of leaders working to achieve racial equity and power-building. Daniels also discussed some of the challenges unique to the South when it comes to human rights, social justice movement-building, and how the fight for justice looks a bit different from the rest of the country. This conversation has been edited for length and clarity. KMSG: We know that Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation has a long history of supporting social and economic justice in the South; its not something youre new to. Other funders are starting to get involved through affinity groups like Grantmakers for Southern Progress (and other regionally-focused foundations and movements). What do you think philanthropy at the national level could be doing more of as it relates to promoting equity and justice in the South? Daniels: I think theres a real opportunity for philanthropy in the South, particularly in this moment of challenge and change. Its really important for philanthropy to play a catalytic role by partnering with leaders and organizations who are authentically engaging in freedom work. Here at the Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation, weve focused for years on moving people and places out of poverty, and have renewed commitments to establishing connections and supporting networks of leaders in their organizations to accomplish the kind of power building and the racial equity muscle-building necessary for us to do the kind of freedom work that this moment is calling for. Philanthropy has both the financial resources, as well as the connections and its own sense of power, to help catalyze (with and through our partners) the kind of work thats necessary. That looks like funding, supporting and protecting the sustainability of groups that do the work. We believe work has to be done over the long term, generation after generation. Youve got to be able to make those connections and stay connected in a way that allows folks to work through the practice of equity and justice for a long time. KMSG: Thats something weve seen a lot of in terms of the clients that we work with at KMSG. On the philanthropy side, theres been a real shift in how they think about what support looks like, not just as a one-time restricted grant but looking at longer-term grants, looking at unrestricted or less restricted grants, as you mentioned, to do the work freely and in the best way possible for the grantee. Youve been on both sides of the table, as a grant-maker as well as working with or for institutions seeking grant or partnership opportunities. That means that you have the dual vantage point of both perspectives. What are some of the biggest misconceptions you think funders have when it comes to the prospective grantees theyre considering? And how have you kept an open mind to possibilities and opportunities for evaluation when youre thinking about grants and partners? Daniels: Thats a really good question, because I have the advantage of having been a grant seeker and, before that, having roles in program design and implementation. Many of us in philanthropy come from this background, so we get a chance to think about the full spectrum of the work. I think one of the biggest misconceptions I struggled with when I was on the other side, and we talk about this a lot in philanthropy, is that the definition of capacity is frequently incongruent with what actually materializes into life-changing outcomes. To be clear, more money means more capacity and we [foundations] have to fund the work at scale. Sometimes we get stuck in the context of wanting to be accountable and responsible in determining whether or not an organization has capacity. The Babcock Foundation decided a long time ago that we would primarily offer general operating (i.e., unrestricted) support grants, because its a way for us to honor the experience and wisdom of those who do the work at multiple levels, for the sake of ensuring that they have flexible dollars to finance their operations. It really is a two-way relationship, and we get a chance to build more trusting relationships as a result. Considering the long term nature of the work, funders need to get beyond this misguided concept of, Who does or doesnt have capacity?, and instead move to asking themselves, How do we support funding at scale? To keep an open mind, we say here at the Babcock Foundation, Evaluation with a small e. Its less evaluation and more assessing the strength, experience, and authentic alignment of an organization as a means of thinking about how we fund that work, and how we sustain that funding for the work, such as opportunities to bring in other funding partners. KMSG: Thats such an important distinction. Something that came up in a conversation with a nonprofit leader was that they were often asked by prospective funders to communicate impact. They said something that has stuck with me: How do you evaluate or determine impact when your work is tied to prevention? Its easy to talk about what happened, but how do we show what didnt happen? Its hard to create an infographic or one-pager explaining that something bad didnt happen because of what we did provide. A lot of times, especially in movement-driven work or social justice driven work, thats a really important perspective for a funder to have. If youre only looking at what kind of demonstrable outcomes came out of this [grant or organization], then youre missing the point thats reactive and responsive, not proactive or preventative. Daniels: Thats right. Weve been fortunate at MRBF because we have an intentional analysis and practice around racial equity. If you are lucky enough to be able to decide to do that work, you will often find and I think it was Toni Morrison who reminded us of this there is a strategy to diminish the lives of people, whether in the South or across the entire country, by those who dont want certain people to flourish and do well. Their intention is to keep people responding to the fires of the day so that we cant mount a strategy to do the freedom work thats going to liberate our communities generation by generation. That liberation could really allow people to experience the fullness of life and all the things that they deserve, but its limited because folks are intentionally creating all these barriers. MRBF funds work at the ground level, the fundamental operating support, to give space for grantee partners and policy partners to be able to get beyond the crisis and to be able to do the work that they are doing and know how to do so that they can actually win and succeed. Thats how we actually get to success. KMSG: Ive worked at organizations that are trying to address these challenges, and also trying to get funding, and I know that thats a very welcome perspective from a funder thats making a real difference in how people feel like you show up as a partner. As a follow-up to those challenges that grantee partners face, what are some of the challenges unique to the South when it comes to human rights, social justice movement building, and other components of the work that are different from the rest of the country? Daniels: Its really tough, to be honest with you. MRBF has been closely tied in our understanding of the relationship between democracy, creating flourishing economies for people and their families, and the knowledge that people have to do well enough to be able not just to survive, but to thrive and participate in democracy. When you assess all this, you realize that the South has been the worst actor. The entire country has not behaved well, but the South in particular. If you look at the divestment from the public sector and what that has meant for fundamental rights in America you see worse consequences in the South. If you look at extraction economies, and what it means to steal labor, life, and future opportunities from folks as a part of the capitalistic system, you see that in the South at higher proportions and in a deeper way. The South has experienced both of these amazing challenges around democracy weve seen whats happening in Tennessee and other places in real time. The South also has some of the most economically disparate communities in the country because of its legacy, background, and obtuse economic models. Simultaneously, the South has some of the most creative and innovative people and leaders who know how to get important and complex work done, to stand in the gap as old folk used to say. I would argue that many of the innovations among democracy and freedom, and the ability for us to practice our humanity, come from Southern actors; people who understood the promise of this country. MRBF is really proud to be a Southern actor constantly developing innovative approaches and strategies that sit inside our values around racial equity, power building, democracy and inclusiveness that we believe creates a path to a future that looks better for all of our people. We do want to elevate that we still struggle with disproportionate amounts of philanthropic funding in the South. The latest data shows funding levels havent shifted much in the last 15 to 20 years, which puts us significantly behind other parts of the country with more philanthropic resources to leverage and enhance the work. Were calling on and encouraging our partners around the country to continue to look to the South. Not only because we deserve our fair share of funding but to be sure that the country benefits from Southern leadership. We want to meet and match these challenges with the financial and the experiential resources necessary. KMSG: Being a native Southerner, and working outside of the South, I hear comments about how the South takes more than it gives and extracts from the national economy. These comments are from people who I think would identify as being in favor of social progress, human rights and racial justice, yet there is a blind adherence to the idea that funding the South is charity rather than strategic funding. In doing so, an entire part of the country is written off. I often counter this view by asking where do you think the majority of people of color in this country live? Where do you think the majority of Black people live? Where do you think the majority of LGBTQ+ community members live? Its not in the places where people might automatically think. Racial, economic, gender, or LGBTQ+ justice cant be addressed without the South being a critical part funding portfolios. The South cant be an afterthought, it has to be part of the initial investment and that message is stronger because its coming from an organization that knows and loves the South. How have you made the case to other social justice funders outside of the South that they should shift their strategy and focus toward the South? Daniels: My mother raised me to believe its not polite to say I told you so, but in many ways as you ask that question, I am having a bit of an I told you so reflex. When we founded Grantmakers for Southern Progress, it was initially The Southern Organizing Working Group, and as the name would imply, it was a way for us to think about how to attract more resources to the South, particularly for racial and social justice organizing and power building. We stated that everything that philanthropy wanted to make progress on was best found in the South, in terms of practice, strategy, innovation, lived experience and wisdom all indications of being able to get the toughest work done with the fewest resources. Philanthropy should be flocking to the South because thats what funders want; folks who know how to do the work and have found a way to do it with limited resources. MRBF has had the luxury of partnering with and funding folks for 70 years and we will continue to leverage our partners across the country, or anywhere else for that matter, who we believe can help make a case that the South has really smart people, organizations with capacity, and networks of organizations and leaders whove been working together for years and deserve investment not just because its the smart and right thing to do. When we dont invest in the South, we see what happens not only in the South but across the country. Folks are making policy decisions to undermine the lives of children and families, communities, cities, and states, which are direct outcomes of divesting from the South and Southern leadership. We have luminaries people emitting light, opportunity, and joy and creating successful paths to our humanity, those folks are here in the South doing that work in spite of the circumstances. We think the South represents the best investment opportunity this country has and we firmly believe that the South is how were going to turn this country around. If we can get funders and philanthropy in deeper partnership and relationship with the organizations and the leaders on the ground, we can carve out the future that helps all of us live the lives that we deserve. KMSG: That is music to my ears because the South is not 50 years behind, it is 50 years ahead, both in leadership and strategy. If these issues arent addressed they grow in power and they expand and you see that with everything from national level elections, to disparities and outcomes; they only grow in power and theyre coming for your community at some point and you ignore it at your peril. Were working with foundations that want to make grants that go beyond a single grant cycle they want to help build infrastructure, and provide support in areas like communications, media or advocacy training. What are some other ways that funders could be more intentionally involved in the grant design to meet the needs defined by the grantees themselves? Daniels: Ill confess, in the past, the power dynamic between funders and grantees sometimes felt like we were giving something to our grantee partners that they couldnt refuse. Now were stepping back to truly grasp what our partners need without them feeling pressured to take it. There are lots of areas where this can be applied. For example, communications and marketing support is one area that Ive seen really surge over the last few years from large national funders to local or regional funders like MRBF. Im also seeing increased support for policy and advocacy for organizations that may not have access to research and data analysis that can add power to their work. I think engagement from foundations is also showing up inside of the different forms of democracy practice. Funders are contemplating how to ensure people have access to information so they can participate in democratic practice, and how to protect the voter across the South and across the country. Were finding not only good opportunities to support that work, while staying within the bounds of a 501c3, in non-grant ways, but were also finding great partnerships with other funders who have similar interests so that we can scale some of that work, particularly across a multi-state region. KMSG: Those are all excellent examples. Ill end by asking whats one area that you think more people should be paying attention to? And why do you feel like its critical that more people pay attention to it? Daniels: I think most importantly, we are going to have to double down on our analysis, understanding and investments to support the protection of democracy as we have envisioned it. It is being attacked from every corner and from every angle, and I dont believe we understand how much of a crisis were in. Im a student of history; I was not a history major but I paid close attention and we are very much in another cycle of developing fascism with the rise of the modern billionaire class and its impact on society. None of this is new. I think philanthropy has a duty to analyze and resource, in the affirmative sense, against these attacks on democracy and freedom. The folks in the groups who are doing that work, whove been doing that work, and who know how to do that work have to get beyond our alleged fear of politics. Philanthropic foundations are very sophisticated organizations, and we know how to navigate and walk the line and get advice from our lawyers, advisors, and tax advisors, so that we dont get ourselves in any trouble so that [fear of politics] argument doesnt resonate with me. I think we have to step out and be bold and courageously support those who are on the front lines of that argument, in addition to those who are narrating that commitment: the media and folks operating a social justice context, we have to tell the story. We have to ring the bell and activate boots on the ground organize people so that we can build the power around these racial equity goals and social justice goals that we have and that were really worried about. Thats why MRBF has seen an absolute commitment to democracy, racial equity, and power building in our strategic plan and implementation. Weve understood this for generations, and we want to make sure that were right there on the front lines with our folks as much as possible. Philanthropy nationwide has to really step its game up, both from a financial sense and how it uses its institutional power to do what needs to get done. A roundup of conversations we're having daily on the site. Subscribe to the Reckon Daily for stories centering marginalized communities and speaking to the under-covered issues of the moment. Uganda signed one of the strictest anti-homosexuality bills into law on Monday, prompting condemnation from the Biden Administration and U.S. Secretary of State. Transgender Equality Uganda (TEU) co-founder and CEO Beyonce Karungi believes that the U.S.s stance could make an impact. They are putting pressure, that helps, said Karungi, a Ugandan trans activist. While same-sex relations were already prohibited by law in Uganda, the Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2023 imposes more severe consequences, like capital punishment for certain behaviors categorized as aggravated homosexuality, and a prison sentence of 20 years for promoting homosexuality. Uganda President Yoweri Museveni had previously pushed lawmakers to erase the provision related to aggravated homosexuality. Museveni nonetheless signed the bill into law despite those changes not being made. Karungi initially visited New York City for a UN conference back in March, when she found out the Ugandan Parliament passed the Anti-Homosexuality Bill, that entrenches the criminalization of same-sex conduct. Now that the law has taken effect, returning home has become unsafe for her. Honestly, I might be arrested because of trespassing, Karungi said if she went back. And being the lead activist [of trans rights], someone whos known, Im a target. This wouldnt be the first time Karungi faced violence due to her identity. She was beaten and hospitalized in 2012 for her appearance. And in 2015, she was attacked by assailants who wanted to kill her, suffering multiple injuries on her head and back. Shortly after the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 was signed into law, the Biden Administration released a statement calling it a tragic violation of human rights and a shameful development. No one should have to live in constant fear for their life or being subjected to violence and discrimination, Biden said in the statement. It is wrong. LGBTQ+ organizations, human rights groups, the European Union, United Kingdom, UNAIDS, and the Global Fund have expressed their grave concern for Ugandas adoption of the law. The Anti-Homosexuality Act, 2023 will obstruct health education and the outreach that can help end AIDS as a public health threat, said the leaders of UNAIDS and the Global Fund in a joint statement with the U.S. Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief on Monday. Together as one, we call for the Act to be reconsidered so that Uganda may continue on its path to ensure equitable access to health services and end AIDS as a public threat by 2030. As a result, the State Department will develop mechanisms to support LGBTQ+ rights for Ugandans and promote accountability for Ugandan officials and other individuals responsible for, or complicit in, abusing their human rights, said Secretary of State Anthony Blinked in a press statement released Monday. Blinken has called the State Department to update travel guidance for American citizens and businesses in Uganda and will consider deploying existing visa restrictions tools against Ugandan officials and other individuals for abuse of universal human rights. Additionally, the Biden Administration will consider additional steps to impose sanctions against Uganda. Something Karungi acknowledged is needed but will have critical consequences. Americans are funding a lot of things, she said, adding that Ugandas police academy, army academy and HIV prevention efforts are significantly financed by the U.S. As of March 2022, Uganda received over $950 million from the U.S. annually for health and development assistance that includes sustainable measures to address tuberculosis, malaria, maternal/child health, family planning and HIV/AIDS anti-retroviral treatment for more than 1.2 million Ugandans. This law puts the millions of dollars in foreign aid at risk. They are losing money because of such stupid things, said Karungi. Meanwhile, Karungi has been able to continue her work with TEU through WhatsApp. People update me on what is happening [in Uganda], she said. I tell them, keep yourself indoors, dont move. It is risky. She plans to extend her U.S. visitor visa when it expires in the fall, as she figures out the safest move for her next. I feel bad, but theres nothing I can do, she said. My life comes first. I need to be safe. On 11 May, the U.S. Supreme Court decided National Pork Producers' Council v. Ross, in which the justices ruled by a 5-4 margin that California's Proposition 12, approved by voters in 2018, is constitutional. Proposition 12 banned the sale, in California, of pork derived from pigs, or the offspring of pigs, that were confined on less than 24 square feet of floor space per breeding pig, or "in a manner that prevents the animal from lying down, standing up, fully extending [its] limbs, or turning around freely." The case was an important decision for states' rights, and it split the Court in an unusual way: Justices Thomas, Gorsuch, Sotomayor, Kagan, and Barrett sided with California, while Justices Roberts, Alito, Kavanaugh, and Jackson voted against allowing the new law to go into force. It is worth noting that of the five justices who made America's liberals so angry by deciding Dobbs v. Jackson last summer, three of them Thomas, Gorsuch, and Barrett sided with deep-blue California in this particular dispute, while the four left-leaning justices were split half and half. (Bizarrely, the Biden administration deferred to commercial interests by asking the Court not to rule in favor of California thus angering many Democrats who support animal rights.) All of this says something important about the fairmindedness and integrity of the Court's new conservative majority. Last summer, you probably heard over and over again from the left-wing press that the Court was making itself too powerful, or tearing down American democracy, or other such black-is-white drivel. This case proves (in case more proof was still needed) that this isn't true: most of the Court's conservatives are willing to let laws stand even laws that are unpopular on their own side of the aisle when there isn't a clear reason, based on the text of the Constitution, to strike them down. In other words, if the National Pork Producers' Council disagrees with the reasoning behind California voters' decision to ban pork from pigs confined on less than 24 square feet of floor space, it should deal with the issue by lobbying California to change its laws, or by lobbying Congress to override them not by asking the federal courts to create a new constitutional right. While pig farmers who sell their meat to California will indeed be burdened by the law, that alone isn't reason enough to strike it down. As the conservative Justice Barrett put it in her concurrence: California's interest in eliminating allegedly inhumane products from its markets cannot be weighed on a scale opposite dollars and cents at least not without second-guessing the moral judgments of California voters or making the kind of policy decisions reserved for politicians. Basically, under the new regime that began last summer, citizens in red states are allowed to enact laws that reflect their conservative sense of morality, and citizens in blue states are allowed to enact laws that reflect their liberal sense of morality. There are still exceptions for genuine constitutional rights like freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom from racial discrimination (such as that practiced by Harvard), and the right to keep and bear arms. But otherwise, voters and elected legislatures will be given the benefit of the doubt. What that means is that we are getting actual neutrality now not just a mirror image of the last fifty years of American jurisprudence, where a law was constitutional if and only if it aligned with the moral standards of a particular wing of a particular party. Now, it's worth describing in some detail what legal doctrine the Pork Producers' Council used to challenge California's law, and why so many justices from across the ideological spectrum rejected it. The case was brought under the Dormant Commerce Clause. This is a constitutional doctrine (not an actual clause of the Constitution) that states that, because Congress is given power, in Article I, "[t]o regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, and among the several States, and with the Indian Tribes," the states can't regulate interstate commerce. (Another related clause prohibits states from laying "Imposts or Duties on Imports or Exports" without the consent of Congress.) Since practically every law that a state makes will affect interstate commerce in some way or another, this doctrine has led to the creation of a murky area of constitutional law that deals with the question of how much of an "extraterritorial effect" a state law can have without violating the Constitution. This branch of law is necessary, since the Union couldn't function if states had too much authority to regulate affairs outside their own boundaries. (Also, one of the main reasons that the Founders rewrote the Constitution back in 1787 was to prevent states from erecting trade barriers, and to ensure that all businessmen in the country had access to a common market for their goods.) This, for instance, is how the Supreme Court unanimously decided, in a series of cases early in the twentieth century, that states cannot use price-fixing to protect in-state goods from out-of-state competition. Also, in 1970, a unanimous Court ruled in Pike v. Bruce Church, Inc. that Arizona could not require that cantaloupes grown in the state also be packaged there, since this privileged Arizonian labor over that of other states, where the cantaloupes might be packaged more efficiently. Pike was the main precedent that the justices in Pork Producers Council cited, over and over again, in both the majority opinion and the dissent, in order to explain why the California law should (or should not) be allowed to go into effect. Basically, they were trying to decide whether it put an unacceptable burden on out-of-state pork producers, who will now have to adjust their production methods in order to keep selling in California (which, being the most populous state, isn't a market they can afford to lose). But as the majority saw it, the problem with applying the Pike precedent was that California wasn't doing anything to privilege in-state interests over out-of-state interests. (After all, Californian pig farmers have to follow all the same rules, and ordinary Californians were fully aware that the price of their own ham and bacon would go up somewhat as a result of the votes they cast in favor of Proposition 12.) For the most part, California's voters decided to enact Proposition 12 because they thought that putting sows in stalls so narrow that they can't turn around is cruel. And as Justice Gorsuch (who wrote the majority opinion) explained, it isn't a court's job to balance this belief against the monetary interests of the pork producers. "How is a court," he wrote, "supposed to compare or weigh economic costs (to some) against noneconomic benefits (to others)? No neutral legal rule guides the way. The competing goods before us are insusceptible to resolution by reference to any juridical principle. Really, the task is like being asked to decide 'whether a particular line is longer than a particular rock is heavy.'" At the end of the day, Justice Gorsuch's ruling comes as a loss to people who think the Court's job is to advance any particular ideology, be it conservative or liberal, pro-business or anti-farmer or what-have-you. But it's a win for people who want to live under an impartial Judiciary, under a Constitution that means what it says, and under a law code written by elected legislatures rather than special interest groups and their lawyers. It also shows that today's Supreme Court is led by justices who take their duties seriously, and who are capable of self-restraint, magnanimity in victory, and treating their opponents with a level of fairness that the liberals never displayed during their years in power. Twilight Patriot is the pen name for a young American who lives in Georgia, where he is currently working toward a graduate degree. You can read more of his writings at his Substack. Image: kallerna via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped). So my Dad sent me an article in Vanity Fair titled "The GOP is Escalating its War on Ideas" jumping all over the GOP for banning books. I knew what was coming before I ever clicked the link. In fact, I didnt actually click the link, instead I placed a phone call to my Dad. I told him I knew what was in the article without reading it, and was ready to debunk it immediately. He told me he didnt want to hear my opinion, regardless of if I read the article or not, and that I needed to expand my horizons, look at the opposing side, and if I wanted to rebut the article, I should write my own. So I read the article, and here is my rebuttal. Nowhere in the article does Vanity Fair describe the actual content of the so-called books in question. They simply brand the GOP as book-burners and silencers of free speech, antagonists who have a desire to oppress the LGBTQ+ and BLM protagonists. And protect gun owners, the filthy right wingers! They do their level best to make sure that the reader is appalled by the efforts of right-wing fanatics to ban books, and ideas, and of course, keep their guns. They dont delve into what, exactly, might be controversial. They frame their argument by stating, as fact, that the GOP wants to exclude any and all education related to sexuality other than heterosexuality, and race any other than white, and keep their guns. No context needed at all. They make no cogent argument in support of their assertions, but the writing is at least flowery and full of feelgood phrases designed to compel the reader into a wholesale nod of agreement. Dont Say Gay is referenced several times in the article, despite the fact that those words appear nowhere in the Florida law being referenced. Critical Race Theory rears its ugly head, and the accusations of racism, homophobia, white oppression, etc. et al accompany the piece in lockstep uniformity to the current lefty narrative. And you thought you were reading an article about books being banned. I wonder, if a group of murderers were to organize, call themselves something new and catchy, like MOthersFOTOG (Murdering Others For Their Own Good -- it sounds like a wonderful photography group, lets join!) would leftists embrace them and try to give them the right to kill at will? Oh wait, they already have that in Canada, but its called MAiD. That stands for Medical Assistance in Dying. And lets not leave out the abortion industry, who dwarfs the MAiDs by several orders of magnitude, for now. The MAiDs are trying hard to make up for lost time though, by continually redefining the criteria for MAiD eligibility. MOthersFOTOG, come on down! Back to Vanity Fair. The uninformed reader is left with contempt for the GOP, despite the fact that this is actually a bipartisan issue. The way they frame their argument leaves the uninformed reader believing that the only reason the banners want the bans is bigotry and exclusion. Meanwhile, surely my Dad, and probably nearly every reader of the Vanity Fair article, have never actually read the content being banned. This author, on the other hand, and quite likely you, the reader here at American Thinker, have very much been exposed to the content of these books. Most of them are what we now refer to as graphic novels also once known as comic books. Whether thin and flimsy or hardcover, most of these books are filled with many pictures and few words. Growing up, this author was taught a great devotion to reading, and while comic books were included, most reading materials were actually multi-thousand-word novels, histories, and encyclopedias, with very few pictures. That was, in large part, the point. A good author painted you a picture with words, you could see it without an accompanying graphic. Today, the comic book has morphed into the Graphic Novel, an oxymoron if ever there was one. It is under this insidious mantle that these pornographic tomes have emerged and flourished. Tell me, Dad, would you have wanted me, at the age of lets say, 10, looking at a cartoon depiction of oral sex between a ten-year-old (like me at the time) and an adult? How about a well written description without pictures? Honest answer please. I was 11 when you handed me the book Dune and still today, decades later it is my favorite novel. It included violence, war, loyalty, challenge, loss, victory, defeat, and nearly zero sex. But you didnt let me read Marx or Nietzsche at that age (I did try, you took them away from me). Nor did you let me read Playgirl. I wonder why? Would you have wanted the five-year-old me to be told I was not necessarily a girl, but could become a boy? If I recall correctly, at five I wanted to be a horse. And a princess. And a ballerina. By eight I wanted to climb trees. Build forts. Ride bikes without hands. Shovel snow in winter for pocket change. And have a BB gun. I never got the BB gun, because, as you told me then, I could put someones eye out, and I wasnt a boy. At times I truly wanted to be a boy: they were faster, stronger, more able to shovel a driveway, and their Dads bought them BB guns. That said, Im very happy being a woman, I still like to shoot guns, but sadly Im too old to climb trees these days. If you were raising me today, would you have instead seen fit to pump me full of opposite-sex hormones, cut off my boobs, and applaud while I had the flesh from my arms cut off to fashion myself a fake penis? Bought me the BB gun? Read me books with the ten-year-old me giving some adult man sexual favors? Dad, the books being banned are pure filth. They are of zero value to adults, and negative value to kids. These books are not being banned in adult spaces. Adults can access these titles at will. They are being purged from childrens spaces, as they should be. No ten-year-old needs a graphic depiction of oral sex with an adult. Not one. Ever. We dont put Playboy, or Penthouse, or Hustler in elementary school libraries. Do we call that book banning? No. No we do not. We call that age-appropriate discrimination. As we should. Yet the very same kind of stories one can read in the above-noted publications are what these books for kids are promoting. Go ahead, look for yourself. Dont let the Vanity Fairs of the world tell you how bad the GOP, or conservatives, or the Right, are for trying to protect the innocence of childhood. You once protected me, and my siblings, from what you believed to be harmful. Those things were nowhere near as harmful and malevolent as the ideas being presented today to those who have the least ability to resist bad ideas: kids. Go, read up. If after youve seen what I have seen, you still believe those books should be readily available to kids of all ages, well, I honestly am glad I grew up then, and not now. Image: Rawpixel.com (Photo : Kris Connor/WireImage) An IRS whistleblower unveils concerns about the investigation against Hunter Biden. According to three sources familiar with the matter, including a former Justice Department tax official, multiple Justice Department whistleblowers have approached Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley as part of his ongoing investigation into the Biden family's business practices. The sources told CBS News that the whistleblower disclosures raised concerns about the Hunter Biden investigation, with allegations including "irregular management" of evidence and "standard investigative procedures not being followed," allegedly impeding the progress of the investigation. Whistleblower: FBI Failed to Follow Procedure in Hunter Biden Probe Whistleblowers claimed that during the FBI investigation, derogatory evidence about President Biden's son, Hunter Biden, was incorrectly designated as disinformation, although it could have been or had been verified. In some instances, they claimed that damaging evidence was placed in highly restricted systems, preventing other FBI investigators from evaluating it as part of their related work. Some of the most recent leaks involve an FBI internal form called FD 1023. In a letter sent to FBI Director Christopher Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland in early May, Grassley - who is now the ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee - and House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer asked what, if any, information the FBI has regarding an alleged bribery scheme involving President Biden. The White House accused the lawmakers of launching an "unjustified political attack." In a letter to Wray and Garland, Republican legislators inquired about the FD-1023 form, an FBI internal document that, according to the lawmakers, describes "an alleged criminal conspiracy involving then-Vice President Biden and a foreign national involving the exchange of money for policy decisions." A whistleblower provided information about the alleged scheme, and Comer issued a subpoena to Wray for the form. In response to the subpoena, Christopher Dunham, acting assistant director of the FBI Office of Congressional Affairs, stated in a letter to Comer dated May 10 that the FD-1023 is "a form used to record unverified reporting from a confidential human source." Republicans are filing contempt charges against FBI Director Chris Wray after he failed to hand over an internal document proving President Joe Biden was involved in a criminal $5 million conspiracy with a foreign national. Tuesday was the deadline for the agency to turn over an internal unclassified FD-1023 form that appears to detail an arrangement between then-Vice President Biden and a foreign national for the exchange of money in exchange for policy decisions. The Republicans issued a subpoena on May 4 for the document initially brought to their attention by a "credible" whistleblower. Last week, they provided two additional terms that may be referenced in the document: 'June 30, 2020' and 'five million.' Comer affirmed that he will continue to speak with Wray and Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, on Wednesday and that they will continue to discuss the FBI's response. In response, the FBI told DailyMail.com that it "remains committed" to cooperating with the committee "in good faith." Read Also: Missing Missouri Doctor Found Dead in Arkansas Lake Days After Proposing to Fiancee IRS Whistleblower Gary Shapley Recently, an IRS criminal investigator who has accused Justice Department officials of dragging their feet on a long-running investigation into President Joe Biden's son Hunter's tax affairs has severed communication with a key congressional committee amid questions about the veracity of his claims and his motivations for coming forward. Gary Shapley, a former member of the IRS's criminal investigations division, revealed his identity in an interview with CBS News. Shapley testified in a confidential session before the House Ways and Means Committee. This committee has jurisdiction over the IRS and is managed by Republican Representative Jason Smith of Missouri. The 14-year IRS veteran has cut off communication with the Senate Finance Committee, which governs the Internal Revenue Service, after his counsel met with committee representatives, even as he prepares to testify before the House panel. Shapley has also canceled an interview with this committee, chaired by Oregon Democrat Senator Ron Wyden. Mark Lytle, a former federal prosecutor, is known to represent Shapley, according to a Finance Committee source who told The Independent that staffers from both the Republican and Democratic factions of the committee met with him. Related Article: Biden Bribery Scheme: FBI Director Christopher Wray Urges To Speak With Comer Over Alleged $5 Million Payment @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. CNNs Christiane Amanpour appeared deaf to the public outcry over her news analysis involving a mother and her two young daughters left for dead by three Palestinian terrorists in Northern Samaria. She used the blatantly false term shootout to describe the cold-blooded murder of Lucy Dee and her two daughters, Maia, 20 and Rina, 15, as if suggesting an exchange of gunfire had taken place at the time the terrorists sprayed bullets into the Dee family vehicle. The Dee family was unarmed and en route to a holiday at the seaside. Amanpours fanciful imagination at painting a moral equivalency between the two groups was not lost on Rabbi Leo Dee, husband and father to the victims. He astutely described the reportage as representing a new age of terror journalism. Christianes false reporting caused my family unimaginable pain and suffering at a time when we could least bear it, Rabbi Dee said in the Jerusalem Post. This type of terror journalism perpetuates the conflict in the Middle East The real cycle of violence is a comment like this followed by a terrorist atrocity and them more of the same. This sort of impassioned commentary is something Amanpour has become accustomed to hearing as a virulently anti-Israel commentator. But shes less accustomed to looking down the barrel of a $1.3 billion lawsuit proposed by a grieving family member against her personally and her news organization, CNN. Rabbi Dee is consulting with legal experts and has made his intention clear of expressing his concerns to David Zaslav, CEO of CNN. He has requested a meeting with Zaslav. The rabbis attempt to right a wrong appears to have motivated Amanpour to emerge from behind her wall of silence and issue an apology. I referred to the murders of an Israeli family: Lucy, Maia and Rina Dee, the wife and daughter of Rabbi Leo Dee. I misspoke and said they were killed in a shootout instead of a shooting, Amanpour offered. I have written to Rabbi Leo Dee to apologize and make sure the he knows that we apologize for any further pain that may have caused him. Rabbi Dee publicly accepted Amanpours apology, but his grander vision of holding CNN accountable goes beyond acknowledging a two-paragraph apology. He wants to change the networks cycle of false reporting: His intention is to hold the global network accountable for news reporting that just doesnt obfuscate the truth, but repackages the facts to the extent that viewers fail to learn the most essential truths. In this case, CNN viewers would never know from Amanpour and her Israel-bashing colleagues, that the Dee family was murdered at close range, the matriarch had donated her organs for the benefit of others, and among the recipients would be an Arab citizen, as well as Rabbi Dee expressing his sentiment that the vast majority of Palestinians are good people. None of this fit Amanpours corrupt narrative. It is not Rabbi Dees intent to vilify Amanpour, but rather place a spotlight on the network that has the power to mold the thinking of millions of viewers on the explosive issue of Israel and the Palestinians. Amanpour has long enjoyed espousing falsehoods about Israel and not being held accountable for her reckless reporting. She had the luxury of taking refuge behind a wall of silence at a network which simply filed away the barrage of viewer protests expressed in texts, emails, phones calls, and social media posts. That was standard operating procedure for Amanpour and her employer in many cases. In fact, Amanpours apology read more like a mix-up over semantics where she misspoke referring to the murder of a family as a shootout when she should have identified it as a shooting. Rabbi Dee contends there is more to the false narrative than mistaken semantics, and Amanpours apology speaks volumes about her inability to grasp the meaning of fair and accurate reporting. Image: CNN The President and many members of Congress want to keep borrowing money and dont seem to care about whether their expenditures are essential or non-essential, nor do they seem to care about the very real and perilous ramifications of overspending. From 20122022, interest payments on debt held by the public totaled $3,593 billion; interest payments on intragovernmental debt holdings totaled $1,919 billion. The grand total in interest payments amounted to a hefty $5,512 billion. Who is benefitting from owning our debt? The top foreign owners of U.S. National Debt are Japan, China, UK, Belgium and Luxembourg. Other holders of our debt include state and local governments, pension funds, insurance companies, U.S. banks, mutual funds, and savings bonds investors. Intragovernmental debt is held by various agencies and entities within the U.S. government. In addition to wasting money on interest payments, Congress has been lax about government waste and fraud, and their spending on non-essential projects during a time when we should be belt-tightening is inexplicable. Fortunately, all this waste hasnt gotten by Senator Rand Paul, who has been tracking all the wasteful spending and reports on it annually. Every citizen should read his annual Festivus report at the following link. In the report, Senator Paul details a whopping $482,276,543,907 of waste in 2022. How do you think the over half a million homeless Americans would feel about our spending $2,100,000 to encourage Ethiopians to wear shoes (NIH)? $50,000,000 to boost the Tunisia travel sector during COVID-19 (USAID)? $1,700,000,000 to maintain 77,000 empty Federal buildings (GSA)? Or, how about the $17,000,000 spent on unused hotel rooms for illegal immigrants (DHS) and the $168,000,000 spent to help illegal immigrants avoid deportation (DHS)? Im not homeless, but it makes me furious! What do you think the millions of food-insecure would think about our spending $210,069,000 on basic education projects in Jordan (USAID); $3,000,000 to construct a Gandhi museum, or $1,100,000 for training mice to binge drink alcohol (NIH)? How do you feel about the billions wasted that could have been used in your community to replace a dangerous bridge, build roads, clean up your water supply (thinking of you, Flint, MI), and so on? Are our representatives inept or stupid, or do they have nefarious motives? I cant decide, but its time to take away the Congressional credit card until they can be held accountable and stop wasting tax money. Personally, I dont mind paying taxes to live in our country, but I just dont like how my tax dollars are squandered. I worked too hard to have it thrown it away. If we are of a similar mindset, then please, contact your representatives in Congress today and tell them to start paying down our debt and live within our means. Accruing all this debt is dangerous to our survival and unjustifiable. Graphic credit: BlueTailLizard Has Ukraine finally given Russia some payback, given the air strikes now being rained down on Kiev? A first pass answer seems like it may well be. According to the New York Times: At least eight drones targeted Moscow early Tuesday, according to the Russian authorities, the first attack to hit civilian areas in the Russian capital and a potent sign that the war is increasingly reaching the heart of Russia. The assault came after yet another overnight bombardment by Russian forces of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, which has faced a barrage of attacks in recent weeks that have put the city on edge and tested the countrys air defenses. Kyiv was attacked with at least 20 drones early Tuesday, leaving one person dead and unnerving exhausted residents. The dueling strikes reflected the dialed-up tension and shifting priorities ahead of Ukraines expected counteroffensive. Ukraine has increasingly been reaching far into Russia-held territory, while Moscow has been adjusting its tactics in an effort to inflict significant damage on Kyiv. Tuesdays aerial assault on Moscow in which at least three residential buildings sustained minor damage comes weeks after a pair of explosions over the Kremlin, a bold strike aimed at President Vladimir V. Putins seat of power. U.S. officials said the attack was most likely orchestrated by one of Ukraines special military or intelligence units. The Times says that U.S. officials think it was the Ukrainians who did it, but they are still investigating. If so, that would signal some kind of escalation in the war. Moscow calls this a terror attack, which is bound to provoke guffaws, given its strike on Ukraine, but it does seem to be the wild act of a cornered state that has lost its army, is running out of troops, and now needs to resort to desperate tactics. A resort to terrorism, or assassinations, or wild unpredictable acts is sometimes what such states may do, but the word 'terrorism' doesn't seem right to everyone, to say the least. #Moscow buildings attacked by drones. They blame #Ukraine for it and call it terrorist attacks. And what about the 15 months of Russian terror attacks on the innocent Ukrainian population?https://t.co/C9zw9z1wLD harry van heerden (@HAvanHeerden) May 30, 2023 It also would signal that the U.S., which is already neck-deep in financing and training troops in this conflict, is now about to be drawn deeper into it, particularly if the Russians can prove that the attacker was Ukraine. Was that the plan, or was that Ukraine becoming a Frankenstein's monster? The U.S. failure to plan, and to hold aid to Ukraine accountable by any standard is obviously an invitation for out-of-control events like this. But Ukrainian officials and their allies insist it wasn't Ukraine doing it, it was Russia, some citing strategic advantage: Reports that drones are generally going for civilian targets. There are casualties. This is now 99% Putin's false-flag terror attack. These tiny drones killing a few Russian civilians accomplish nothing for Ukraine. A drone struck this building near Moscow a few hours ago. pic.twitter.com/TMdbcS3g2r Igor Sushko (@igorsushko) May 30, 2023 Some citing recent history, in reference to allegations by murdered journalist Anna Politovskaya that Vladimir Putin blew up a Moscow apartment building to build public support for his Chechen war. Russia is the only country in the world that is more likely to have attacked itself than been attacked. XSovietNews (@XSovietNews) May 30, 2023 A third theory, noted by Stephen Green at PJMedia, albeit not endorsed, is that it was the work of a new Wagner group wannabe. Much of the chatter was generated by this audio clip of Wagner mercenary organization chief Yevgeny Prigozhin absolutely going off on the Russian military for allowing the attack. You a**holes, get your a**es out of the offices you were put in to defend this country, was one of Prigozhins nicer statements. I have been seeing those drone videos in Moscow and I was thinking something feels off. But hearing Prigozhin exploding makes me wonder whether neither Ukraine nor the Kremlin are responsible for this but somebody in Russia with ambition, like him.pic.twitter.com/gI8bUL1dv5 (((Tendar))) (@Tendar) May 30, 2023 Heres the clip and an accompanying conspiracy theory courtesy of milblogger Tendar. And there is something to be said for all three theories. For the Ukraine-did-it camp, there's a need to win somehow, anyhow, with an army largely decimated and a much larger neighbor. That the U.S. has supplied it with effectively unlimited firepower and no accountability makes a situation like this ready-made for escalated conflict. For the Putin-did-it-camp, the shock that it happened in a ritzy neighborhood has brought up 1812 and 1941 talk on the Internet and in Russian state propaganda. Could it have been a bid to rally flagging Russian support for the war? For the one-two-many-Wagners camp, the fact that Putin is under fire and his grip on power slipping, may have created a power void with many emerging characters vying for power. Whatever it is, it's the fog of war, with truth the first casualty. There's obviously an escalation, but there's little to do now but to watch and wait. Image: Twitter screen shot California has come up with a new absurdity, one that stands to raise the wildfire damage risk, even as insurers such as State Farm are already pulling out. Goats. They're going after the goats, making it so expensive for goatherders to graze goats on the state's firetrap hillsides that their employing companies say they will go out of business. No more goats grazing on hillsides, wolfing down tons of dry tinder for this wildfire-prone state. According to the Associated Press: Targeted grazing is part of Californias strategy to reduce wildfire risk because goats can eat a wide variety of vegetation and graze in steep, rocky terrain thats hard to access. Backers say theyre an eco-friendly alternative to chemical herbicides or weed-whacking machines that are make noise and pollution. But new state labor regulations are making it more expensive to provide goat-grazing services, and herding companies say the rules threaten to put them out of business. The changes could raise the monthly salary of herders from about $3,730 to $14,000, according to the California Farm Bureau. Companies typically put about one herder in charge of 400 goats. Many of the herders in California are from Peru and live in employer-provided trailers near grazing sites. Labor advocates say the state should investigate the working and living conditions of goatherders before making changes to the law, especially since the state is funding goat-grazing to reduce wildfire risk. Way to go, California, o model for the country. Instead of letting goats graze weed-filled hillsides to their heart's content, managed by experienced Peruvian goatherds, all to prevent California wildfires from having anything at all to burn, the Peruvians will get laid off. What a fine deal that will be for the state, which will instead pay out unemployment benefits rather than allow these agricultural specialists to work gainfully. As for the goats, off to the slaughterhouse for them, no more hillside feasting. Where is PETA? And as for the hillsides, time to burn, and too bad about the homes, or whole towns that get engulfed, as the city of Paradise has learned. Maybe the state can clear the tinder on the hillsides through the miracle of toxic chemicals instead. Or maybe they can do targeted burns and hope nothing gets out of control, never mind the CO2 emissions and black-smoke air pollution. Maybe they can just cross their fingers and hope there aren't any bums or illegals to set up illegal campfires in the bone-dry brushland. AP notes that the state has ramped up spending on fire protection, but obviously, it can't be for any solution that's easy or natural. As for the goatherders, well, supposedly they are underpaid and must get $14,000 a month instead of the nearly $4,000 they are currently earning, according to the proposed new law The creature behind this idiocy is a familiar face ... none other than Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, whose husband recently got thrown out of office for sex harassment in San Diego, and whose most famous line was "F*** Elon Musk" for his complaints about the impact of lockdowns to his Tesla manufacturing plant. Her foul mouth managed to get Musk to pack up and leave the state, leaving Gonzalez with egg all over her face, even though a little extra food on her didn't seem to bother her. Gonzalez was a powerful state legislator when she drove out Musk. She swapped that job to be a union boss, running the California Labor Federation, and now harasses goatherding companies whose stock in trade is greenie-friendly fire protection. She's always been the face of the "California Model" that Gov. Gavin Newsom says he wants to impose on the rest of the country. AP explained what she claimed were her reasons for targeting the goat companies: Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, who heads the California Labor Federation, said goatherders are among the most vulnerable workers in America because they are on temporary work visas and can be fired and sent back to their home country anytime. Most of them work in isolation, speak minimal English and dont have the same rights as Americans or green-card holders. We have a responsibility as a public to ensure that every worker whos working in California is treated with dignity and respect, and that includes these goatherders, said Gonzalez Fletcher, who sponsored the farmworker overtime bill when she was a state Assemblywoman representing San Diego. Which is total garbage, such as always comes from her. Goatherders are paid $3,730 a month, instead of a salary, because the job requires them to live on the land in mobile trailers in order to monitor and protect the animals at close range, moving with them as they graze. Gonzalez insists that the companies pay them $14,000 a month, accounting for every hour spent on call as a paid hour, which is to say, an hourly wage for 24 hours even if the herders are out watching the ball game on call. In addition to the $4,000 they do get, that's augmented by zero expenses for food, housing, and phone service, so they can stay in touch with their families in Peru while on work assignments abroad. The average monthly salary for all workers in Peru in all sectors -- the big cities, the countryside, the rainforest, the rich areas, the tourist sector, in tech, in the universities, and not just the poorly paid agricultural sector, is $391 a month in 2022, according to Statista. That means the $4,000 is likely a very good job for the Peruvian goatherders abroad, given that they have few expenses in the states, with a heck of a leap upward in cash inflow. But who cares about that when you are a union official looking to impose the union agenda on the state a little harder? The now-union poohbah is actually content to let the state burn, the goats get eaten, and the Peruvian workers to lose their jobs, all for the sake of her out-of-control California "model." Now the fires will burn, the homes will vanish, the insurance companies will flee, and the body count will pile up, all because the goats and their goatherders were not allowed to be there to perform their vital service to the state. Gonzalez doesn't care, of course. Goats? No, not goats. For Gonzalez, it's all about keeping the union hogs happy. Image: Pixabay / Pixabay License Rolling Stones EJ Dickson writes, A furry fandom con in Florida just announced it would ban minors based on the govenors ridiculous law[.] Translation: Group of disturbed adults who fetishize about sex with animals compelled to keep children out or face legal consequences. For Dickson, Ron DeSantis has successfully sucked the pleasures out of many of lifes little joys, especially since May 17th, when the governor signed SB 1438 (the Protection of Children Act) into law. First, DeSantis ruined Disney, then he came for the drag shows, and now, hes bringing the ax down on furries. In response to the new code, an upcoming furry convention set to be held in Florida released a statement announcing its intention to limit the orgy to adults-only. From the release: After reviewing Florida SB 1438 it has been decided that for legal reasons and protection of our attendees, our venue, and the overall convention, Megaplex 2023 attendees must be 18 years of age at the time of registration pickup. It is our hope that this change is temporary and that we can welcome members of all ages [emphasis added] back next year. Theyre not hiding it; the perverts are in it to win it, and they have no intention of backing down. As a furry-sympathizer ready for a euphemism for the ages? Dickson says that furries are just people who enjoy dressing up as or making art of anthropomorphized creatures. Well, I suppose in one sense hes correct, they do enjoy dressing up. (Just a heads up, there is graphic language ahead.) However. Its a serious problem when furry costumes often include exposed butt plugs with fluffy animal tails, and they want to play with children. And art? What a dastardly use of the word. Now get a load of what Dickson says next: So what does a law about exposing kids to sexually charged content have to do with people dressing as cartoon bunnies and foxes? While SB 1438 does not specifically target minors dressing as furries, it prohibits children from attending adult performances, which it defines as a presention that depicts or simulates nudity, sexual conduct, or specific sexual activities. And, like drag, there are pervasive misconceptions that this mode of expression is inherently sexual. While it is true that there is a segment of furrydom that does treat it as kink, it is not a representation of the wider community, and many furries do not view their interestas sexual at all. They typically save such programming for later at night to ensure the rest of the con is family-friendly, or cordon off adult vendors so they are not in full view of other attendees. Well, what a reasonable compromise! The animal tail butt plugs typically only come out at night, and typically the vendors hawking limitless manmade horrors are only half-seen by the toddlers and children in their most formative years; remember, ideally theyd have members of all ages in attendance. As one anti-DeSantis seether said, Suck my mouse dk, you fascist fk, gee, he sounds nice and trustworthy around children. Oh those poor, persecuted perverts! Always the victim, never an equal, am I right? We feel so marginalized and oppressed pic.twitter.com/PcWEDtGgRq End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) May 28, 2023 Image: Gabe Classon from Berkeley, California, United States, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered. Nicolas Maduro is a busy dictator in the communist bowels of Venezuela, but not so busy that he can't pay attention to American bloggers. So, after my last blog post about him and his death squad regime yesterday, someone back at the palace in Caracas who runs his Twitter account (I doubt he knows what computers are) got to work with this: Well, well. Was it something I said, Nicolas? My last blog, titled, 'Vomitivo': Brazil's Lula hails and welcomes Venezuela's Maduro, calling him just a victim of bad press,' seemed to rub him the wrong way. Touchy, touchy, touchy, they get their feelings hurt so easily these days. Or maybe it was what was inside the blog that got his goat: As for Maduro's actual record, which is that of literally running a death squad regime characterized by its extrajudicial killings (that's from the U.N.), as well as driving tens of millions of people out based on hunger, poverty, drug-dealing, and gangster rule, all built on a foundation of fraudulent elections...well, actually, that was just bad press: Or could it have been my quotes from top Venezuelan experts, who aren't impressed with his governance, such as Pedro Burelli, who had these observations on the communist dictator: | VOMITIVE Said by a character who is not only corrupt in the everyday sense of the word, but who is politically and humanly amoral. Saying that Venezuela is a "constructed narrative" will persecute and nullify it forever. Very soon the @IntlCrimCourt will make it very clear what its position is on the FACTS in Venezuela that constitute Crimes Against Humanity. The @TheJusticeDept has mountains of sealed accusations against the Madurista nomenclature for corruption, money laundering and drug trafficking. And, in case the evidence is lacking, Venezuela is today a faithful example of an inept and rapacious exercise of power obtained illegitimately. 7.2 million do not flee from a false narrative, they do so from a terrifying and UNCONCEALABLE reality. It is increasingly evident that @LulaOficial Version 2.0 will be much worse than the 1st. version. Old and withdrawn; willing to never spend work again. It will be a dark government and I dare to predict that it will surely have a rather unhappy ending for the VERY amoral Lula da Silva. There were other experts with similar sentiments, too. Whatever it was, it was working fine yesterday, but today it was totally blocked. Seems it was the last straw. It goes to show that he and his pariah state, which have failed to provide food, shelter, security, electricity or jobs to millions of Venezuelans, still has plenty of time to hunt down and block his critics on Twitter, including even us lowly bloggers for distant foreign websites three thousand miles away from him. What a guy. Dictators gonna dictator. Image: Twitter screen shot Apple has released an Android version of its Apple Music Classical app. You can download the new app from the Google Play Store (link below). Its a dedicated app for streaming classical music and works independently of Apple Music. Apple Music Classical is an outcome of the companys August 2021 acquisition of Primephonic. The Netherlands-based streaming service focused solely on classical music and had made a name for itself in this category. Apple shut down Primephonic soon after buying it with plans to replace it with a new service. The company said that its forthcoming classical streaming app will offer everything it acquired from the Dutch service in lossless and high-res audio, along with support for spatial audio if available. A year and a half later, Apple Music Classical debuted on iPhones in March of this year. A few months down, the app is available for Android devices as well. Not many first-party Apple apps get this privilege. Apple Music, Apple TV, Move to iOS, and Tracker Detect are the only other Apple apps on the Play Store. As pointed out by 9to5Mac, which first reported the availability of Apple Music Classical on Android, the company has yet to launch an optimized version of the app for iPads or even release a Mac app. This move does make sense, though. For one, people mostly use their mobile phones to stream music rather than a tablet or computer. Releasing Apple Music Classical on Android may help the company add more users rather than a dedicated app for iPads and Macs. People using those devices are likely to have an iPhone already. Moreover, since Primephonic existed on Android before Apples purchase, many Android users may have been waiting for a replacement. Its finally here in the form of Apple Music Classical. Advertisement Apple Music Classical is included in an Apple Music or Apple One subscription Apple Music and Apple Music Classical share a lot when it comes to design, UI, and functionality. However, there are a few notable differences. They handle the metadata differently and also have distinctive navigation and font. The company offers access to Classical with a standard Apple Music or Apple One subscription. The Android version offers the same set of features as the iOS version. You get ad-free classical music in up to 24-bit/192kHz lossless quality with spatial audio. You can click the button below to download the latest version of Apple Music Classical from the Google Play Store. DOWNLOAD APPLE MUSIC CLASSICAL MediaTek has teamed up with Nvidia to develop automotive chips. The two firms will work closely to introduce a complete range of in-vehicle AI cabin solutions for the next-gen always-connected cars. They announced the plans during Computex 2023 earlier this week. MediaTeks Dimensity Auto will use Nvidias GPU and AI solutions, as well as its ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) technologies. The American chip firm will also lend its Drive OS, Drive IX, CUDA, and Tensor RT technologies for the planned automotive solution. These technologies will handle graphics, AI processing, and safety and security features of the chip. The upcoming Automotive processors from MediaTek will feature C2C, an interconnected system that connects CPUs, GPUs, and SoCs for seamless communication across the platform. The chip will process data from various sensors and cameras on the car and provide the driver with relevant information through infotainment systems and displays for assisted driving. The Taiwanese firm will also offer built-in support for 5G cellular connectivity, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. The combination of MediaTeks industry-leading system-on-chip and Nvidias GPU and AI software technologies will enable new user experiences, enhanced safety, and new connected services for all vehicle segments, from luxury to entry-level, said Nvidias CEO and founder Jensen Huang (via). The companies plan to begin the production of the MediaTek Dimensity Auto platform in 2026 and launch it in 2027. Advertisement MediaTek will be up against several established players in the automotive space. Among these are its existing semiconductor rivals Samsung and Qualcomm. These firms already compete in several areas, including chips for smartphones, tablets, wearables, and TVs, though Samsung has an in-house fab for manufacturing those chips. Samsungs Exynos Auto and Qualcomms Snapdragon Auto lineups offer a complete automotive solution for always-connected cars. It remains to be seen what MediaTeks entry brings to this industry. MediaTek and Nvidia may also launch optimized chips for premium notebooks This partnership between MediaTek and Nvidia may not be limited to the automotive sector. There have been reports that the two companies are working closely to develop optimized chipsets for premium or high-end notebooks. MediaTek also plans to integrate Nvidia GPUs in its flagship smartphone processors. The latter plan will not materialize this year, though. MediaTek has already confirmed that its next-gen flagship SoC will use the latest ARM tech. The new solution, presumably called the Dimensity 9300, will arrive later this year featuring the Cortex-X4, Cortex-A720, and Cortex-A520 CPU cores and the Immortalis-G720 GPU. It will rival Qualcomms next-gen Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Pegasus spyware is reportedly found on the phones of Mexico undersecretary for human rights Alejandro Encinas and at least two members of his office. Encinas is one of the closest allies of Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Pegasus spyware is developed by NSO Group, and its usually used for public surveillance. Spyware is also repeatedly used for spying on political figures all around the world. The ally of the Mexican president is one the latest victims of Pegasus spyware. Yet, the culprit is unknown, and efforts to detect the people behind this attack continue. Encinas has been involved in an investigation from the Mexican military over power abuses since 2018. One of the under-investigation cases is the abduction of 43 students on September 26, 2014, in Iguala, Mexico. The authorities later said all students were killed. Pegasus spyware targeted Mexicos Presidents closest ally The outlet continues that Pegasus spyware was first spotted in a 2022 audit by the University of Toronto-based Citizen Lab research team. Additionally, Pegasus has compromised Encinass phone multiple times. The attacks relationship with Iguala disappearances becomes more apparent when knowing that Encinas was targeted last year when he was attending a commission meeting to discuss the disappearances. Advertisement Encinas already blamed the military, police, some government officials, and drug cartels for Iguala disappearances. He allegedly notified President Obrador of the spying campaign. However, Obrador later tried to de-escalate the situation by refusing to blame the army for the incident. While there is no firm evidence of who was behind the attack, Mexican anti-corruption activists Angela Buitrago and Eduardo Bohorquez argue that the army is using Pegasus spyware to spy on Encinas and impact his investigation on Iguala disappearances. The NSO Group said in a statement that it would check all credible allegations to see which customers misused the spyware. The company also added it would end its contract with the culprit. Neither Encinas nor the Mexican Defense Ministry has yet responded to the news. The NSO Group was banned by the US in 2021 for selling spyware to authoritarian governments. Its products are reportedly used by governments to spy on activists and journalists. To address what she claimed was systemic racism in America, a Target Corporation diversity official urged "White women" to get to work. She noted that the retail behemoth was making certain internal choices based on projections of changing demographics. According to Target's Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer, Keira Fernandez, being Black is "one of the hardest things in the world to be every day." This quote is from early 2023. Also Read: Kohl's Faces Backlash for LGBTQ Clothing Collection for Infants and Kids Target Intensifying Its DEI Efforts After George Floyd was killed, Target stepped up its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Target has formed the Racial Equity Action and Change, headed by Fernandez, to accelerate these efforts. In a report by Fox News, the task force has goals focused on increasing the number of Black clients and expanding the number of Black staff. The company also said it would significantly grow its current Black workforce population by 50%. The plan is to invest over $2 billion in Black-owned businesses by 2025. "We've already increased our investments with Black-owned companies and suppliers - including marketing agencies, construction companies, facilities maintenance, and more - by 50% since 2020," Fernandez stated. She then emphasized the need to consider how to lay the groundwork now for future demographic changes. She went on to argue that White women should speak out when they see transgressions. "Because whether it's right or not... there are places where you and I will go where your voice will be heard differently than mine. And that is why we're doing this work. That's why it's so important to have this conversation," Fernandez explained. She added, "We also can't ignore the systemic history that got us here and then the things that we have to do differently to remove those barriers." Companies that want to follow Target's example of tolerating intolerance will find it difficult to do so without first establishing a strong cultural foundation. Businesses are spending more time and money on diversity and inclusion initiatives, but Fernandez pointed out that everyone must do their part. She said building the proper infrastructure with the proper tools will help corporations to successfully integrate DEI into their ecosystem. Customer Backlash Forces Target to Remove LGBTQ Merchandise Meanwhile, one of the most recent stories about Target is its decision to pull certain LGBTQ goods from stores due to negative consumer feedback after the launch of its Pride Collection in early May. About 2000 items, including books, mugs, and clothes, were removed from the store's Pride Collection. This decision was made amid reports of hostility from regulars, which escalated into fights between customers and staff. Some customers were especially interested in children's books with titles like I'm Not a Girl and Bye Bye, Binary. There was a rise in demand for Queer All Year calendars and Gender Fluid mugs, too. In addition to the traditional rainbow of colors, the collection also included shirts with the phrase "love is love" printed on them. Also Read: Target Executive's Involvement with Group Pushing Transgender Agenda in Schools Raises Concerns @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. During the Technology Alliances annual State of Technology luncheon, the T-Mobile CEO, Mike Sievert, made a remarkable comment about work-from-home culture. This comment got a massive reaction from the crowd of over 700 individuals from various sectors that were present at this event. During his speech, he gave strong and clear advice to tech industry leaders, telling them to get back to the offices. Well, to a certain degree, Mike Sievert is in a great position to address the actions of tech industry leaders in his region. Not only is he the CEO of T-Mobile, but he is also a member of the Challenge Seattle CEO group. This group pulls together CEOs of over 22 of Seattles largest employers with a mandate to ensure the region thrives in various business sectors. But why will a man like Mike Sievert call out tech industry leaders in a bid to get them back to the office? Also, by saying tech industry leaders, is he referring to the CEOs of other tech companies? What exactly is there to benefit from bringing these tech industry leaders back to the office? T-Mobile CEO believes tech industry leaders should ditch work-from-home It is no longer news that the pandemic changed how lots of tech companies carried out their business. But after the pandemic and vaccines were readily available, there came the need for workers to return to the office. Ever since the pandemic, a lot of companies have opened their doors to workers, including T-Mobile and other Seattle firms. Advertisement Regardless of this, Mike Sievert notes that some workers are shying away from returning to the office. These groups of workers have gotten so used to the work-from-home style of things. From Mike Sieverts point of view, their absence from the office is telling on the workforce, hence the need for them to return to the office. Sievert says those that are eager to return to the office are the younger generation of workers. The older and more experienced generation of workers with years of experience is shying away from returning to the office. So by saying tech industry leaders, Mike Sievert points to the older generation of workers. Without these in the office, the younger generation will struggle to learn how to perfectly fit into their roles. This is not to mean that the younger generation is untrained, but they need mentorship. The ones in the best position to fit in as mentors to these younger workers are the older generation which has tons of experience. Also, there is a need for more workers on the ground for security purposes. Mike Sievert highlights this point as well during his speech, connecting the dots between crime and absence from work. For these reasons, the T-Mobile CEO, Mike Sievert, wishes that all workers get back to the office. Twitter kicks up the fight against AI-generated images with the Community Notes for images. This feature is currently in the testing phase and will help users on Twitter identify AI-generated images. Over the past few months, lots of users have fallen for these images that are products of AI models. This feature is just one tool in Twitters arsenal that it will put to use as it combats misleading media. Some bad actors using the Twitter platform reach millions of users with AI-generated images, claiming they are proof of activities that never took place. The aim behind this effort is to mislead people, and it can be damaging to the global community. Once these images get to Twitter via posts, it is easy for unsuspecting users to share them with others. This aids the misleading information spreading like wildfire, hence brewing false ideas of an individual or group. Twitter Community Notes for images is now here to combat the spread of such images to millions of people making use of the social media platform. Twitter aims to curb the spread of AI-generated images with the Community Notes for Images feature The Twitter Community Notes page recently put out a post that addresses AI-generated images. These types of images are becoming more rampant on the social media platform and tend to mislead lots of users. Twitter has taken note of this and they are now giving a group of users the ability to flag down this type of posts for other users awareness. Advertisement At this moment, it is easy for an ill-meaning Twitter user to use any AI model to generate a photo of whatever. All they need to do is describe what the photo should look like and what elements it should possess. The AI model then gets to work and produces an almost realistic image based on the users specifications. Armed with this image, the ill-meaning user can then post the image on Twitter with a misleading description. Other users of Twitter that get to see this post might believe the misleading description and retweet or like the post, hence spreading it to millions. Now, Twitter is giving contributors on their platform the ability to flag down these misleading AI-generated images and videos. With the Twitter Community Notes for images, contributors with high ratings will be able to flag down AI-generated images. Currently, this feature is in its testing phase and lets contributors flag these images down for other users. To flag these images down, contributors with high ratings will add descriptions to the image thatd be visible to other Twitter users. Once the descriptions are set, the Twitter algorithm matches all posts of that image on the platform with the description. If another user posts the image again, it will pop up with the description, flagging it down as an AI-generated image. However, this feature needs to perform well during tests before it becomes available to the public. The Xiaomi MIX Fold 3 is coming this year, and a rumor claims that it will offer an under-display camera, along with a number of other improvements. This information comes from Digital Chat Station, a well-known Chinese tipster. The Xiaomi MIX Fold 3 could offer an under-display camera, and much more Now, the tipster claims that the phone will be fueled by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, as expected. On top of that, an under-display camera is tipped to be included on its main display. Xiaomi is seemingly trying to ditch the hole punch on the main display. The cover display will still have one, though, it seems. The tipster also mentions that 50W wireless charging will be included here. The Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 does not offer wireless charging at all, so this would be a huge improvement. Lets just hope that the phone wont be much thicker because of it. The Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 is one of the thinnest foldables out there. Xiaomi is also planning to include a proper IP rating here, so the phone should be water resistant. On top of all that, a periscope camera is also tipped to be included on the phone. If previous rumors are accurate, were looking at a 5x optical zoom capability here. Advertisement The company is also working on an Explorer Edition concept foldable smartphone On top of everything, it is said that Xiaomi is working on an Explorer Edition concept folding phone, which will be shown off alongside the Xiaomi MIX Fold 3. Many of you are probably wondering when will that happen. Well, if we had to guess, wed say in August. Why? Well, the Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 launched in mid-August, so were guessing that Xiaomi will stick to its release cycle. The Xiaomi MIX Fold and MIX Fold 2 are both exclusive to China. Xiaomi did not show off a global variant of either phone, but were hoping that will change with the third-gen product. It would be really nice to see more competition in the foldable smartphone segment outside of China. A human rights group has filed suit against Ethiopian Airlines, claiming that the state-owned airline has a policy of excluding people of the Tigrayan ethnic group. Ethiopian Airlines is the biggest airline in Africa. Like Lufthansa, United, and EgyptAir, it is a part of Star Alliance, the largest airline alliance in the world. The Accusation of Discrimination Human Rights First, a local non-governmental organization, has filed a lawsuit against Ethiopian Airlines. According to The Guardian, the group alleges that the company is discriminating against "Tigrayans aged 15 to 60" by not selling tickets for flights between the northern Tigray area and Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. It says the firm is also using the price hike as a "collective sanction" against the people of Tigray. The organization argues this goes against Ethiopian constitutional provisions for freedom of movement and equality amongst ethnic groups. "By discriminating between citizens and limiting their freedom of movement, the accused has infringed upon their fundamental and democratic rights ... These charges have been presented in order to compel the accused to cease these violations," the complaint reads. About 6% of Ethiopia's total population are ethnic Tigrayans. From 2020 to 2022, a civil war broke out in their native area of Tigray, killing hundreds of thousands of people and resulting in serious human rights violations. During the majority of the war, all lines of communication and transportation were shut off, isolating the province of Tigray from the rest of Ethiopia. After a truce was signed last November, flights between Addis Ababa and the Tigrayan towns of Shire and Mekelle, the regional capital, resumed at the end of December 2022. However, Tigrayans attempting to board flights to Addis Ababa claim they have been denied access to the ticketing system and the planes. See Also: Asiana Airlines Stops Selling Exit Row Seats After Aircraft Door Incident Testimonies From Two Tigrayan Customers and Former Airline Staff According to Mehret Okubay Berehe, 30, she was denied entry to the Alula Aba Nega airport in Mekelle by Ethiopian Airlines employees in early January despite having a valid ticket. She planned to see an eye doctor in Addis Ababa for treatment of a condition. Reportedly, Berehe's age was cited by the airline staff as the reason she was denied boarding. A note from her doctor was required a few days later before she was permitted to fly. Berhe, another Tigrayan, said he was denied entry to the airport two weeks ago while waiting in line to purchase a ticket. Instead, he boarded a bus to Addis Ababa, a trip that took two days due to checkpoints and other security measures. A former employee of Ethiopian Airlines, speaking to The Guardian on the condition of anonymity, said that employees received instructions in mid-January not to sell tickets to individuals aged 15 to 65 who were coming from the province of Tigray. To get tickets, one apparently must first undergo intensive background checks conducted by spy agencies. The former worker claims that this was due to government security concerns and the possible departure of young people from Tigray, which is undergoing a humanitarian crisis. See Also: China's First Passenger Plane Makes Official Commercial Debut @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Ads for alcohol brand Litty Liquor have been banned for featuring the under-25-year-old rapper ArrDee and encouraging excessive and irresponsible drinking. Two Instagram posts from the Litty Liquor account in December featured photos of ArrDee in a distillery surrounded by bottles of spiced rum. A third post featured a video of ArrDee in an empty nightclub, trying and rejecting two unidentified brands of rum before he was shown in a distillery mixing liquids, making notes, and testing the results until he was happy. The video then cut back to the nightclub which became filled with people and loud music, as ArrDee danced away from the camera to join friends on the dance floor. An Instagram post for Litty Liquor featuring the rapper ArrDee that has been banned by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA/PA) The final scene showed a box of Litty Liquors products, along with the on-screen text #GETLIT. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) received one complaint that the ads breached advertising rules because they featured someone who was, or seemed to be, under 25, and encouraged excessive and irresponsible consumption of alcohol. Litty Liquor, also responding on behalf of ArrDee, confirmed that the rapper was under 25 years of age at the time the ads were seen, and apologised for his presence, which they accepted was in breach of the rules. Litty Liquor and ArrDee said they understood how the phrase #GETLIT could have been perceived as promoting excessive and irresponsible alcohol consumption, but said they had intended to promote their products in a responsible and appropriate manner. They said that they had removed the ads, and would be reviewing their advertising policies and procedures in order to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future. The ASA said: We understood that the word lit had a long history of being used as a slang term for being drunk, and that it had also become popular within the rap music scene to indicate being intoxicated. We noted that in recent years the term lit had also been used in rap music to mean that something was exciting, or of an excellent quality. However, because the ad was focused on the creation and consumption of an alcoholic drink, and was set in a nightclub and a distillery, we considered that consumers would likely associate the phrase #GETLIT to relate to the consumption of alcohol, and becoming intoxicated. We therefore considered that the ad was likely to encourage excessive consumption of alcohol. While we welcomed Litty Liquors removal of the ad, we concluded that the ad was irresponsible because it encouraged excessive drinking, and breached the code. The UKs post-Brexit trade deals with Australia and New Zealand came into force on Wednesday. Here is what it means for travellers, shoppers, farmers and exporters. Why has the UK got its own trade deals with Australia and New Zealand? The UKs exit from the European Union, following on from the majority vote to leave the bloc during the 2016 referendum, means Britain can strike its own trade deals and no longer has to wait for Brussels to negotiate trading terms on its behalf. These deals with two Commonwealth nations mark the first post-Brexit trade pacts to come into force with non-EU countries. What do the deals entail? In a nutshell, trade tariffs on all UK goods exports to Australia and New Zealand have been removed. Similar tariff scrappage will occur vice versa, although some trade on goods deemed sensitive particularly agricultural products will be liberalised gradually. The Australian biscuits Tim Tams are expected to become more readily available in the UK following the trade deal being introduced (Stefan Rousseau/PA) The fresh terms are expected to make it easier for Britons to set up a business in Australia and New Zealand, and work visas should be simpler to obtain. Ministers say it represents a 2.3 billion per year boost in business with Canberra and an 800 million annual increase in trade with Wellington. What will be cheaper on UK shelves? Supermarket shoppers could see Tim Tams, the popular Australian chocolate biscuits, become cheaper and potentially more readily available in Britain, with the same happening for Jacobs Creek and Hardys wines. In terms of New Zealand produce, the Department of Business and Trade expects Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, Manuka Honey and kiwi fruit to become more affordable as a result of the new agreement. In Australia, British-made cars, Scotch whisky and UK fashion is expected to see an uplift in sales due to tariffs being removed. Will there be lots of cheap Australian and New Zealand food for sale? That is the fear of the British farming industry and some senior Tory MPs, including former environment secretary George Eustice. Nick von Westenhol, director of trade and business strategy at the National Farmers Union, said the deal was highly likely to favour Australia over the UK. Writing on the organisations website, Mr von Westenhol said: Specifically, lower production costs and weaker standards will see the introduction of more competitive Australian imports that will become completely tariff-free after 15 years. Asking UK farmers to go toe-to-toe whilst maintaining their sustainability, environmental and animal welfare commitments significantly risks the longevity of the UK agricultural sector in the future. Ministers insist there are protections in place, with the ability within the deal to pause the timetable for liberalising trade on some goods if domestic producers are being disadvantaged. There is also the nuclear option of exiting the deal entirely if the terms do not benefit the UK economy, but ministers insist that should not need to be an option. Will this make it easier for British people to work abroad? For younger people certainly, and for those in specific service sectors as well. Agreements struck alongside the trade deals are expected to expand opportunities for young Britons due to the extension of the shared Youth Mobility and Working Holiday Maker visa schemes. Trade minister Nigel Huddleston (right) saw off the first UK parcels sent to Australia and New Zealand under the new trading arrangements (Jordan Pettitt/PA) On July 1 2023, the age limit for UK applicants going to Australia will increase from 30 to 35 years old. A year later, the rules will be relaxed further, meaning that from July 1 2024, Britons will be able to stay in Australia for up to three years an increase on the current two-year limit without having to meet specified work requirements. Those requirements previously meant Britons looking to secure a long-term stay in Australia had to carry out months of farm work in the country to qualify, but that condition is set to be scrapped. The UK and New Zealand will introduce similar changes from June 29 and July 1 respectively. Wellington has said it will establish an annual cap of 15,000 visas per year to be issued as part of its UK Working Holiday Scheme, a higher quota than was available previously. Can I take up a job in Australia or New Zealand with my company? Service sector employees should find making a transfer easier, under the new rules with Australia. Officials at the Department for Business and Trade said that, for the first time, UK service suppliers, including architects, scientists, researchers, lawyers and accountants, will have access to visas to work in Australia without being subject to Canberras changing skilled occupation list. As part of the Wellington agreement, UK professionals, such as lawyers and auditors, will be able to work in New Zealand more easily, and bring their families with them, according to the department. Britains future is outside the EU, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said, as he promised to make Brexit work. Writing in the Daily Express newspaper, Sir Keir who campaigned for Remain in the 2016 referendum also said he would not be seeking a return to freedom of movement. The comments are Sir Keirs latest pitch to Brexit-backing voters ahead of the next general election, with the Labour leader promising to improve on the UK-EU deal reached by Boris Johnson. As Prime Minister Rishi Sunak heads to the European Political Community summit in Moldova this week, the Labour leader said the subject of fixing the Trade and Co-operation Agreement between the UK and the EU must be high up the agenda. If we are to make Brexit work, we need a government with the vision and the focus to deliver it, he wrote. As Rishi Sunak heads off to meet with Emmanuel Macron on Thursday, there are no signs that he or his Government have any proper plan to deliver that better future for our country. Britains future is outside the EU. Not in the single market, not in the customs union, not with a return to freedom of movement. Those arguments are in the past, where they belong. Sir Keir said that the current deal between London and Brussels is paper-thin, arguing that it had stifled Britains potential and hugely weighted trade terms towards the EU. We need to act now. New border controls coming in at the end of the year will further restrict trade, damaging businesses and households. There is a deal to be done that makes good on the British peoples desire to maintain Britains high food and animal welfare standards and prevent the burden of bureaucratic red tape. It could save our importers hundreds of millions of pounds a year. Whether it is working with European neighbours to tackle criminal gangs and stop dangerous boat crossings, or driving down the price of food for hard-pressed British families, there is huge potential for change. Thats why we should be optimistic. Every one of the problems I have outlined can be fixed from outside the EU. But it will require hard work, good relations and above all honesty. Labour has long accused the Government of failing to secure a good Brexit deal with the EU. Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves used a visit to Washington earlier this month to suggest that the current Brexit deal would be reviewed under a Labour government by 2025. Pretending everything is going fine or ducking hard conversations will see Britain miss opportunities and slip behind our competitors, he said. If we are to get this right, Rishi Sunak must face up to the truth that the Tories have got this wrong. Failure to do the hard yards needed right those wrongs will mean the Tories fail to deliver for Britain and fail to deliver on the promise of Brexit. A former Metropolitan Police officer has appeared in court charged with five counts of raping a woman before he joined the force. Jade Ebanks, 29, was suspended from duty as a police constable after he was arrested on May 5 last year. The ex-officer, who joined the Met in June 2021, resigned a week before he was charged on April 28 this year. Ebanks, with a goatee beard and hair tied into a top knot, appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court on Wednesday wearing a dark suit, white shirt and dark tie. Former Metropolitan Police officer Jade Ebanks at Westminster Magistrates Court (Yui Mok/PA) He stood in the dock to confirm his name, date of birth and address in Kilburn, north-west London. Ebanks is charged with five counts of rape against the same woman, who cannot be named because she is the alleged victim of sexual offences. He is said to have carried out the alleged attacks between March 2018 and January 2020 in Greenford and Uxbridge, west London, according to the charges. Ebanks was not asked to enter pleas to any of the counts, which can only be tried in the Crown Court. District Judge Briony Clarke granted Ebanks, who was based with the forces North West Basic Command Unit, bail with the condition he does not contact the complainant. She told the former officer he must appear at Isleworth Crown Court on June 28 for a plea and trial preparation hearing. Climate activist Greta Thunberg is take part in an event at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. The event, titled Its Not Too Late To Change The World, will take place at the Edinburgh Playhouse on Sunday August 13 and will chaired by writer and broadcaster Gemma Cairney. It will begin with a speech from Ms Thunberg, followed by an in-depth conversation about her activism and her book The Climate Book. The book, published last year, saw her call on the wisdom of more than 100 experts, from Indigenous leaders and renowned scientists to activists and people around the world who are most affected by climate change. It will be Ms Thunbergs first public appearance in Scotland since her visit to Glasgow for Cop26, the UN climate change conference, in November 2021. Greta Thunberg was in Glasgow during Cop26 (Andrew Milligan/PA) Ms Thunberg, who inspired the youth climate strike movement with her one-person school protest starting in 2018, was not invited to formally address Cop26 but took part in a rally with young activists demanding action to tackle climate change. Nick Barley, director of the book festival, said: Nobody speaks truth to power quite like Greta Thunberg: her words and actions have given hope to countless young activists. This is a rare opportunity to spend time in the presence of a young woman whose conviction and defiant energy is a source of inspiration to millions across the globe. We are honoured to welcome Greta to Edinburgh International Book Festival. Its Not Too Late To Change The World will be part of a climate-focused strand of events at the book festival, which is presented in association with the Edinburgh International Festival. Edinburgh Festival director Nicola Benedetti said: We are deeply grateful to Greta Thunberg for joining us as she is one of the most prominent environmental activists of our time and is uniquely positioned to address the underlying question of this years international festival programme, Where do we go from here?. Greta has helped to galvanise a global movement for climate action, and we are proud to feature her as part of the Edinburgh International Festival. Three hundred tickets to the event featuring Ms Thunberg will be made available to local community groups and young people, and a special half-price ticket will be offered to those aged under 26 to encourage them to become part of the climate conversation. Tickets will be available to book online from 12pm on Wednesday June 7, at www.eif.co.uk/events/edinburgh-international-book-festival-greta-thunberg. The Duke of Sussex is expected to return to the UK to give evidence in the latest of his legal battles against British newspaper publishers. Harry will be in London next week for a High Court trial, just over a month after he attended the coronation of his father the King. He will take to the witness box in the trial brought alongside other high-profile figures seeking damages from Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) over alleged unlawful information gathering including phone hacking at its titles. Harry returned to the UK to see his father the King crowned (Ben Stansall/PA) It is thought to be the first time a senior member of the royal family has personally appeared in court proceedings since 2002, when the Princess Royal pleaded guilty to a charge under the Dangerous Dogs Act after her pet bit two children in Windsor Great Park. The dukes visit to see Charles being crowned was his first public appearance alongside the royal family since he criticised his relatives in his controversial memoir Spare. Within hours of the historic ceremony, Harry was on a plane back to California to be reunited with wife Meghan, daughter Lilibet and son Archie, who turned four on the day of the coronation, May 6. The Sussexes made headlines a short while later when a spokesperson alleged the couple and Meghans mother were involved in a near-catastrophic car chase at the hands of a ring of highly aggressive paparazzi, after the trio attended an awards ceremony in New York where the duchess was honoured. A spokesperson for Meghan and Harry alleged they were involved in a near-catastrophic car chase with paparazzi (Matt Dunham/PA) MGN, publisher of the Daily Mirror, Sunday Mirror and Sunday People, is contesting claims brought by Harry and others over allegations that its journalists were linked to voicemail interception, securing information through deception and hiring private investigators for unlawful activities. Harry is one of four representative claimants whose cases have been selected for the trial. The others are Coronation Street actors Michael Turner and Nikki Sanderson and comedian Paul Whitehouses ex-wife Fiona Wightman. The duke is due to attend court for the opening of his case against MGN on Monday, and is expected to enter the witness box on Tuesday. His relationship with the King and his brother the Prince of Wales are strained and Harry is unlikely to spend time with his relatives during what is expected to be a brief visit to the capital. It is thought Harry still has use of Frogmore Cottage in Berkshire, before the Sussexes must vacate the property, but it is not known if he will use it. Harry now lives in Montecito, California, with Meghan and their children after the couple stepped down as working royals for a life of financial independence. Rishi Sunak is set to use a gathering of European leaders to urge cross-continental co-operation to tackle illegal migration. The Prime Minister will join fellow leaders in Moldova for a meeting of the European Political Community, where he is expected to stress the need to address the issue. While there, he is expected to announce the start of negotiations on a new returns agreement with Moldova to allow the UK to return foreign nationals who have been found to be in violation of immigration law. It comes as a similar deal with Georgia enters into force. The Times reported that Britain will also target Turkey and Bulgaria as part of efforts to tackle small boats crossing the Channel, with the paper saying Border Force has evidence that Turkey has become a main hub for the manufacture of the dinghies used. Mr Sunak, who will meet with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Thursday, is also expected to announce an increase in bilateral intelligence sharing with Bulgaria to crackdown on criminal gangs involved in illegal migration. Europe is facing unprecedented threats at our borders. From (Russian President Vladimir) Putins utter contempt of other countries sovereignty to the rise in organised immigration crime across our continent, Mr Sunak said. We cannot address these problems without Europes governments and institutions working closely together. In every meeting, every summit, every international gathering like this, the security of our borders must be top of the agenda. The UK will be at the heart of this international effort to stop the boats and defend our national security. Then-prime minister Liz Truss arriving at the European Political Community summit at Prague Castle last year (PA) In attending the Chisinau summit, Mr Sunak follows in the footsteps of predecessor Liz Truss, who made time to attend the first meeting in the Czech Republic last October during her short-lived premiership. Spearheaded by French President Emmanuel Macron, the European Political Community is scheduled to hosted by the UK in 2024. Moldova, which will play host to nearly 50 European leaders for the summit, has accepted thousands of refugees from Ukraine since the Russian invasion last year. Support for Ukraine and Moldova in the face of Russian aggression is likely to be on the agenda, with Mr Sunak and Mr Morawiecki set to hold a roundtable discussion on security at the summit. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly in March announced UK funding of 10 million of funding for Moldova, earmarked for economic and governance reforms and including the energy sector. A Home Office spokesperson said: We have a close partnership with Turkey when it comes to the shared problem of illegal migration, and we work extensively together to tackle the criminality that enables it. Rachel McAdams has armpit hair, and shes not afraid to show it off. The 44-year-old appeared in a recent issue of Bustle where she requested that her photos be minimally edited and her armpit hair be kept in. I've had two children. This is my body, and I think that's so important to reflect back out to the world, she told the publication. It's OK to look your best and work at it and be healthy, but that's different for everyone. Read more: Bizarre celebrity memorabilia sold, as Churchill's used cigar goes up for auction McAdams joins a legion of female celebrities who are embracing or have embraced armpit hair such as Julia Roberts, Miley Cyrus, Faith Hill, Anna Faris, Ashley Graham and Madonnas daughter Lourdes Leon. Most Brits still think armpit hair on women is 'unattractive' Despite more women embracing their natural body hair the hashtag #bodyhairisnatural has over 203 million views on TikTok the majority of us consider female armpit hair unattractive. According to a 2021 survey by YouGov, 59% of Brits considered armpit hair unattractive, while a third (34%) were indifferent. Over half 54% of women thought that women should get rid of their armpit hair. The group least likely to say that women should get rid of their armpit hair were young men and women aged 16 to 24, with just 39% of men in this age group and 26% of women saying that women should have no armpit hair. Women over the age of 60 were the group most likely to advocate for hair-free female armpits as 64% said women should shave. Julia Roberts at the premiere of Notting Hill in 1999. (Getty Images) The benefits of armpit hair We asked Dr Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy to outline why it could be beneficial to stop shaving. Hair in the armpits prevents friction from two skin surfaces rubbing together, so reduces chafing and irritation Armpit hair helps your body control body temperature when its cold your armpit hair traps heat to keep you warm When you don't shave, you get fewer skin problems in the armpit area such as less ingrown hairs, skin tags and spots/pustules Longer armpit hair means more space to harbour pheromones. These smells are attractive to the human race and can help you find a mate Body hair has several important functions Regulating body temperature Forms part of the touch sensation Protects skin Helps shape your identity Lourdes Leon at the 2021 Met Gala. (Getty Images) How body hair attitudes differ around the world While shaving armpit hair has been the norm in the UK for the better part of the last century, ever since Gillette sold its first female razor in 1915, other countries have varying attitudes towards female body hair. Women shaving their armpit hair only became the norm in China at the turn of the century as they began to follow Western beauty standards. Women in the US in the 1960s and 70s largely shunned shaving their body hair as a feminist statement. Removing body hair has been a common practice in Egypt for around 5,000 years using a process called sugaring, while both men and women in Turkey are required to remove their underarm hair under the guidelines of Islamic culture. Documents will only be disclosed to the Covid-19 inquiry where it is appropriate, a Cabinet minister has said. As the dispute between the Cabinet Office and the inquiry over the release of Boris Johnsons documents rumbled on, Mel Stride said the Government was prepared to be absolutely robustly transparent where necessary. The Cabinet Office has claimed it does not have access to Mr Johnsons WhatsApp messages and private notebooks which were demanded by inquiry chairwoman Baroness Hallett and the Government has a wider objection to the release of unambiguously irrelevant material. Covid Inquiry chairwoman Baroness Hallett (UK Parliament/PA) The inquiry has set a deadline of 4pm on Thursday to hand over Mr Johnsons messages, notebooks and official diaries, having granted a 48-hour extension on Tuesday. Lady Hallett demanded a witness statement from a senior civil servant accompanied by a statement of truth confirming the documents are not held if the Cabinet Office fails to produce them by the new deadline. Work and Pensions Secretary Mr Stride told Sky News we absolutely intend to continue to be absolutely transparent and candid and the Government had already provided 55,000 documents, eight witness statements and corporate witness statements to the inquiry. He added: Im absolutely certain and confident that the Cabinet Office will be engaged in this in exactly the right kind of way, and in the kind of spirit that Ive just outlined and making sure that we are absolutely robustly transparent where it is appropriate to be so. I think thats an important qualification, so that the inquiry has all the information that it is right for it to have. Allies of Mr Johnson insisted he has no objection to handing over the evidence as his successor Rishi Sunak said the Government was acting in a spirit of transparency and candour. Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner said evidence has seemingly gone missing, adding: It must be found and handed over as requested if the whiff of a cover-up is to be avoided and bereaved families are to get the answers they deserve. The Prime Ministers official spokesman flatly denied the allegation of a cover-up, saying: No. We want to learn the lessons about the actions of the state during the pandemic, we want that to be done rigorously and candidly. He said there is no requirement to permanently store or record every WhatsApp, with messages related to decision-making instead copied over to the official record. But the spokesman said it is down to individuals to decide what personal information they are able to hand over. A Cabinet Office spokeswoman: We are firmly of the view that the inquiry does not have the power to request unambiguously irrelevant information that is beyond the scope of this investigation. This includes the WhatsApp messages of Government employees which are not about work but instead are entirely personal and relate to their private lives. Mr Johnsons team says the notebooks and WhatsApp messages have been handed to the Cabinet Office legal team, but he has since parted ways with his Government-appointed lawyers. The former prime minister says he has not had a request from the Cabinet Office since telling officials in a letter on Friday any request for material must be in writing to him. Whitehall officials are concerned about setting a precedent by handing over all the requested documents in unredacted form, rather than deciding what material is relevant and should be submitted to the inquiry. Refusing to comply with the request to hand over the documents which include text conversations between Mr Johnson and a host of government figures including Mr Sunak could lead to a court battle with the official inquiry. But Whitehall officials hope that a compromise can be reached before the 4pm deadline to avoid the need for a damaging legal fight with the inquiry set up to examine the pandemic and the Governments response. Households with traditional prepayment meters have been urged to avoid missing out on 400 of help with their bills by June 30, with 130 million still available to be claimed. The Claim Your Energy Voucher Day is a final push to encourage the remaining households to claim their vouchers before the scheme ends in a month. All households were eligible for the Governments Energy Bills Support Scheme, which paid 400 in six instalments of 66 or 67 over the winter. Prepayment customers often some of the most vulnerable were paid in vouchers and millions remain unclaimed. Some customers did not get them while others have struggled to redeem them. Customers need to visit a post office or PayPoint with their Energy Bills Support vouchers and identification before June 30. Any lost, missing or expired vouchers can be reissued as long as they are redeemed by June 30. Those on a traditional prepayment meter who have not received the vouchers, are unsure of how to redeem them or need a voucher to be reissued should contact their supplier. The number of vouchers cashed in has reached an all-time high of 83%, with prepayment meter users so far claiming nearly 650 million under the scheme, the latest figures show. For the sixth month running, London had the lowest redemption rate, with more than 650,000 vouchers still unused at the end of March, the numbers, published earlier this month, show. About 25% of vouchers in both Scotland and the south-east of England are also yet to be claimed. Energy minister Amanda Solloway said: Weve made huge strides in getting nearly 650 million from our Energy Bills Support Scheme out to prepayment meter customers, often in the homes that need it most. Today we are redoubling our efforts to reach anyone who still hasnt claimed this help and its fantastic to see so many join our final push to spread the word. Tell friends and family or anyone on a traditional prepayment meter to use their vouchers for up to 400 off bills before June 30; there is still 130 million out there to claim. Adam Scorer, chief executive at National Energy Action, said: We urge anyone who hasnt yet claimed their vouchers to do so before the June 30 deadline and if you have friends and family that may not have used their vouchers, spread the word. It may be the support that keeps their lights on, their oven cooking, their hot showers running, through the summer. Its vital money at a time when its never been needed more. Matthew Cole, head of Fuel Bank Foundation, a national charity providing emergency fuel vouchers to prepayment meter customers, said: Were really concerned that hundreds of thousands of people with traditional prepayment meters are going to miss out on this vital financial support. As part of our own campaigning on this issue, we found that other reasons why vouchers havent been redeemed included not receiving them, due to incorrect details or the person having moved house and their records havent been updated, or they lost or deleted the voucher. However, whatever the reason, we want to reassure people that if they havent claimed their voucher, there is still time to do so. Energy UK chief executive Emma Pinchbeck said firms have put huge amounts of time and resource into helping customers claim their vouchers, including sending postcards in case people were avoiding opening their mail. Ms Pinchbeck said: Its really important that traditional prepayment customers who havent yet claimed their vouchers check their mail and the expiry dates on any vouchers they have. The most recent batch will expire at the end of June so there is still time and people should make use of the range of contact methods available, including web forms, to get in touch if they have any problems. Households using prepayment meters who use alternative fuels such as LPG, heating oil or biomass as the main way they heat their homes also have until June 30 to use their vouchers worth up to 200 in energy bills support. Customers will have received these vouchers in the post from their supplier and should contact them if they have any questions. Prudential chief financial officer (CFO) James Turner resigned on Wednesday, May 31, during an investigation into a code of conduct concerning a recent recruiting scenario. The insurer said Turner had failed to meet the company's expectations. Prudential's CFO Transition Based in Hong Kong and in the position for a little over a year, Turner is being replaced by Ben Bulmer, the CFO of Prudential's insurance and asset management division. Yet, Turner will be available to the firm for the next four months. In a report by Financial Times, Prudential said that the company "sets itself high standards, and Mr. Turner fell short on this occasion. It did not, however, provide any specifics about the recruiting scenario. The firm also noted that Turner would not earn any future incentive payments he was entitled to at this time. According to a source familiar with the case, Prudential hired an independent law firm this year to examine Turner's behavior after warning signs were raised via the company's internal systems. Turner has served as the top risk and compliance officer at Prudential. On Wednesday, employees received an email from Prudential's CEO, Anil Wadhwani, stating that "our code of conduct sets out that we expect all our colleagues to adhere to the highest professional standards and [behaviors]." Notably, Wadhwani assumed his position only in late February. CEO Wadhwani said in a statement that new CFO Bulmer, who has been with the company since 1997, is a seasoned financial leader with an in-depth familiarity with its operations and the areas in which it operates. While Prudential is headquartered in the UK and is publicly traded on both the London Stock Exchange and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, its top executives are now based in Hong Kong, and the company does the vast majority of its business in Asia. See Also: Discover Unclaimed Funds: Find Hidden Assets, Boost Your Finances The Firm Under Ex-CEO Mike Wells Turner's departure comes only a few months after Wadhwani was hired as Prudential's new CEO in late February, replacing seasoned CEO Mike Wells. Under Wells, Prudential sold off its UK and European retirement business in 2019 and its US retirement division in 2021, as South China Morning Post reported. In September 2022, the firm was listed on the Hang Seng Composite Index, allowing mainland Chinese investors to trade its shares. After a $2.81 billion loss in 2021, Prudential earned US$1 billion in 2022. The insurer reported a 318% year-over-year increase in Hong Kong annual premium equivalent (APE) sales in 2023's first quarter after the border between Hong Kong and mainland China reopened. See Also: Wildfires, Building Costs Force State Farm to Quit Selling Home Insurance in California @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A set of stamps is being issued to mark the 40th anniversary of the popular tabletop game Warhammer. Six stamps in the main set depict characters from the worlds of Warhammer space marines and orks from Warhammer 40,000, Stormcast Eternals and Slaves to Darkness from Warhammer: Age of Sigmar and high elves and dwarfs from Warhammer: The Old World. A separate miniature sheet of stamps features illustrations from the last 40 years of Warhammer Crimson Fists space marines from the first edition of Warhammer 40,000, the Emperor of Mankind from Warhammer: The Horus Heresy, Yndrasta from the current edition of Warhammer: Age of Sigmar and the Battle for Skull Pass from Warhammer: The Old World. The stamps depict characters from the Warhammer series (Royal Mail/PA) Royal Mails director of external affairs and policy, David Gold, said: With millions of devotees across the globe, Warhammer is a creative, collaborative pursuit with a unique power to spark the imagination. We are delighted to be celebrating the 40th anniversary of this immersive tabletop wargame with a set of special stamps. The wargame has an army of fans (Royal Mail/PA) First produced in 1983 by Games Workshop, Warhammer became the most successful tabletop miniatures hobby in history. Helen Smallridge, global head of marketing at Games Workshop, said: From humble beginnings, Warhammer has grown into a British institution and a global success, with our fantasy miniatures collected by millions around the world. A collectable 50p celebrating 75 years of the NHS has been released by the Royal Mint. All net proceeds from the sale of the individual collectable 50p will be donated to NHS Charities Together, an organisation that provides support to NHS staff, patients, and communities, the Mint said. The Royal Mint has estimated that this figure could amount up to 225,000. Ellie Orton (left), chief executive of NHS Charities Together and Amanda Pritchard, chief exective of NHS England holding the NHS 75th Anniversary 50p (Royal Mint/PA) The collectable 50p was created by Alice Lediard, a senior designer at the Royal Mint, and was one of the first 50ps to feature King Charles on the obverse (heads) side of when the design was first revealed in the Royal Mints annual sets in January. The reverse design incorporates words to reflect the nations gratitude towards the NHS and its staff, such as dedication, support and empathy. The design also uses a similar, angled font to the one used by the NHS. Ms Lediard said: It is an honour to have my design selected to appear on a 50p coin celebrating the NHSs 75th anniversary. Like most of the nation, I have a deep-rooted pride and appreciation for the NHS. Both my partner and closest friends are NHS workers and worked on the frontline during the Covid-19 pandemic. The beating heart of the NHS is the staff who work for it, so I wanted to make sure the words encompassed everyone, presented a positive outlook, and summed up decades of healthcare provision to the British public in a personal way that everyone could associate with. This is the first time that the NHS 50p coin has been available for sale as an individual coin from the Mint, and not as part of the set. Rebecca Morgan, director of collector services at the Royal Mint said: The Royal Mint is delighted to announce that all net proceeds generated from the sale of the individual NHS 50p coin will be donated to NHS Charities Together, to help support and continue the incredible work they do daily. The Royal Mint is committed to producing products that celebrate and commemorate Britains most influential individuals, organisations, and institutions and the NHS has played a pivotal role in British society, supporting millions of people every day. As one of Britains most respected and admired institutions, all of us at the Royal Mint have such appreciation for the work and difference that both past and present NHS employees have and continue to make. It is a privilege to be involved in celebrating and marking the NHSs 75th anniversary with an official UK 50p coin. Ellie Orton, chief executive of NHS Charities Together said: NHS charities have been supporting the NHS throughout its 75 years, and the help we provide has never been more important. We are here for everyone who wants to give something back to the NHS and we are so grateful to the Royal Mint for donating the proceeds of this new coin to our charity. Together we can help the NHS go further for its staff and patients and ensure everyone can access the best healthcare possible. The NHS 75th anniversary 50p coin was one of a set to mark key events in 2023 including the Kings 75th birthday and 75 years since Windrush (Royal Mint/PA) The Royal Mint has celebrated previous milestones in the NHSs history on official UK coins over the decades, with a 50p introduced in 1998 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the NHS. In 2020, along with other organisations, the Mint pledged to support the NHS during the Covid-19 pandemic, manufacturing 1.9 million medical visors for NHS staff. The 50p coin celebrating the 75th anniversary of the NHS is available to buy via the Royal Mints website, with prices starting at 11. Amanda Pritchard, NHS chief executive said: We are delighted that the Royal Mint has launched this new coin to celebrate our 75th birthday and recognise the incredible hard work and dedication of our staff, as we mark 75 years of caring for our communities and of the special role that the NHS continues to hold for the public. After some of the most challenging years in our history, from managing the pandemic response to rolling out our world-leading vaccination programme, and now pulling out all the stops to recover services, it is important that we celebrate the achievements of our incredible staff and volunteers and look ahead to the future and the next 75 years of the NHS. Updated 31 May 2023 at 9:00 am Train services are being hit by more strike action this week. Train drivers who are members of Aslef will walk out on Wednesday and Saturday, while workers who are members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) will strike on Friday. Here is a breakdown of each operators plan for strike days: Avanti West Coast is among the operators affected (Luciana Guerra/PA) Avanti West Coast Wednesday: No trains. Friday: One train per hour will run in each direction between London Euston and each of Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and Preston, with a limited service to and from Glasgow. There will be no services to or from North Wales, Shrewsbury, Blackpool, Stoke-on-Trent or Edinburgh, while Macclesfield station will be closed. The first train of the day from Euston will depart at around 8am, and the last will leave shortly after 5pm. Saturday: No trains. c2c Wednesday: Usual timetable. Friday: No major impact but 12-carriage trains will not stop at Limehouse, east London. Saturday: Usual timetable. Caledonian Sleeper Wednesday: Usual timetable. Friday: All services will be operating via the East Coast Main Line due to engineering works. Saturday: The Caledonian Sleeper does not operate on Saturday nights. Chiltern Railways Wednesday: No trains. Friday: Services will be limited to one train per hour from around 8am until 10pm in both directions between London Marylebone and each of Banbury, Oxford and Aylesbury via High Wycombe; and between Amersham and Aylesbury Vale Parkway. No trains will run between Banbury and each of Birmingham and Stourbridge Junction, or between Hatton and Stratford-upon-Avon. Saturday: No trains. CrossCountry Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A limited service will operate. No trains will run between Birmingham New Street and Cardiff Central or Nottingham. Saturday: No trains. East Midlands Railway Wednesday: No trains. Friday: Services will run between 7.30am and 6.30pm. They will be limited to just one train per hour in each direction between London St Pancras and each of Nottingham, Sheffield and Corby, as well as a handful of regional routes such as between Leicester and Lincoln. Saturday: No trains. Elizabeth line Wednesday: Usual timetable. Friday: The Elizabeth line is not involved in the industrial dispute with the RMT but there will be some alterations to its services. These include no trains between Maidenhead and Reading before 7am or after 7pm, and no trains between Brentwood and Shenfield from 11.30pm. Saturday: Usual timetable. Gatwick Express Wednesday: No trains. Friday: No trains but Southern and Thameslink will serve Gatwick Airport until early afternoon. Saturday: No trains. Services to Gatwick Airport will be hit (Gareth Fuller/PA) Grand Central Wednesday: Grand Central is not involved in the industrial dispute with Aslef but there will be minor alterations to its services due to engineering work. Friday: Grand Central is not involved in the industrial dispute with the RMT but there will be minor alterations to its services. Saturday: Usual timetable. Great Northern Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A limited service will run and only between 7am and 7pm. There will be no trains between Ely and Kings Lynn. Saturday: No trains. Great Western Railway Wednesday and Saturday: A limited service will run and only between 7.30am and 6.30pm. The only open routes will be between: London Paddington and Bristol Temple Meads; Reading and Didcot; Reading and Basingstoke; Reading and Redhill; Westbury and Swindon; Cardiff and Bristol; Exeter and Barnstaple; Plymouth and Gunnislake; and Penzance and St Ives. The Night Riviera sleeper service is cancelled. Friday: More routes will be open compared with Wednesday, including additions such as between London Paddington and Cardiff; London Paddington and Plymouth; and Slough and Windsor. Greater Anglia Wednesday: A reduced service will run and only from 7am, with last trains earlier than normal. The only routes open will be between London Liverpool Street and each of Cambridge, Colchester, Norwich and Southend Victoria. Friday: Trains will run between 7am and 11pm. Some routes will have a reduced frequency, but most will have a normal or near-normal service. Saturday: A reduced service will run and only from 7am, with last trains earlier than normal. Most routes will be closed, including between London Liverpool Street and Cambridge. Heathrow Express Wednesday: An hourly service between 7am and 7pm. Friday: Usual timetable. Saturday: No trains. Hull Trains All strike days: Usual timetable. London North Eastern Railway (LNER) All strike days: A limited timetable will operate and only between London Kings Cross and both Edinburgh and Leeds. London Northwestern Railway Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A limited service will run and only between 7am and 7pm. The only open routes will be between Birmingham New Street and each of London Euston, Birmingham International and Liverpool Lime Street. Saturday: No trains. London Overground Wednesday and Friday: London Overground is not involved in the industrial disputes but there will be minor alterations to some services. Saturday: Usual timetable Lumo All strike days: Usual timetable. Merseyrail All strike days: Usual timetable. Northern Wednesday: No trains. Friday: Only a handful of routes will be open, such as between Liverpool Lime Street and Manchester; Leeds and York; and Darlington and Saltburn. Saturday: No trains. ScotRail All strike days: Usual timetable. South Western Railway Wednesday: Services will be reduced and there will be no trains on the Isle of Wight. Friday: A reduced service will operate and only between 7am and 7pm. Saturday: Services will be reduced and there will be no trains on the Isle of Wight. Southeastern Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A reduced service will operate, with some routes closed. Saturday: No trains. Southeastern will run a limited timetable (Gareth Fuller/PA) Southern Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A reduced service will operate and only between 7am and 7pm. No trains will run between Hemel Hempstead and Clapham Junction; London Bridge and Norwood Junction; Southampton Central and Barnham; and Eastbourne and Ashford International. Saturday: No trains. Stansted Express Wednesday and Saturday: Frequencies will be halved to one train per hour in each direction. Friday: Services will not start until after 7am. Thameslink Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A reduced service will operate and only between 7am and 7pm. Services will be split north and south, with nothing running between London St Pancras and London Blackfriars. Saturday: No trains. TransPennine Express Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A reduced timetable will operate and only between Liverpool Lime Street and each of Preston and York; and between Sheffield and Cleethorpes. Saturday: No trains. Transport for Wales All strike days: Transport for Wales is not involved in the industrial disputes but some of its services will be amended. West Midlands Railway Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A limited service will run and only between 7am and 7pm. The only open routes will be between Birmingham New Street and each of Wolverhampton, Rugeley Trent Valley, Lichfield Trent Valley, Redditch and Bromsgrove; between Kidderminster and Whitlocks End/Dorridge via Birmingham Snow Hill; and between Stourbridge Junction and Stourbridge Town. Saturday: No trains. Entertainer Paul OGrady could be posthumously given the freedom of Wirral as part of plans to pay tribute to his legacy. Councillors will vote next week on whether to award the honorary freedom of the borough to the TV presenter, who was born in Birkenhead, Wirral, and died in March at the age of 67. OGrady grew up in Merseyside but later moved to London, where he found fame as his drag alter-ego Lily Savage and went on to host a string of television programmes. Since the sad passing of Birkenhead's legendary entertainer Paul O'Grady in March, we've heard the many asks for us to celebrate his legacy and we agree. The first step in doing so will see councillors consider a recommendation to bestow the star who first found fame as the pic.twitter.com/Q7Ij2MwfZq Wirral Council (@WirralCouncil) May 31, 2023 In a statement, Wirral Council said: Since the sad passing of Birkenheads legendary entertainer Paul OGrady in March, weve heard the many asks for us to celebrate his legacy and we agree. The first step in doing so will see councillors consider a recommendation to bestow the star who first found fame as the self-proclaimed blonde bombsite Lily Savage with the honour of freedom of the borough. This would recognise his years entertaining the nation, along with his dedicated activism and charity work. We are also looking at other ways to pay tribute to the legacy of both Paul and Lily more details will be shared as soon as we have them. Councillors will discuss the award at a regulatory and general purposes committee on Wednesday, June 7. The agenda item for the meeting states: This is a very significant step for the council to take. Very few people have been awarded this status and, it should only be awarded to someone who has made an exceptional contribution to the borough. A prison guard has been suspended for alleged religiously-motivated abuse against US fugitive Nicolas Rossi, a court has been told. Rossi, 35, is wanted in America accused of rape and his long-running extradition battle in the Scottish courts is entering its final phase. The fugitive has been held in HMP Edinburgh since his bail was revoked, and on Wednesday the citys sheriff court heard claims about his treatment there. His advocate Neil Shand told Sheriff Norman McFadyen that a number of incidents are said to have taken place inside the jail, including chanting and name calling directed towards Rossi. During a 53-minute preliminary extradition hearing, Mr Shand told the court a prison guard has been suspended for calling Rossi a name relating to his religious practice, which was described as a religious slur. Rossi has said he has converted to Judaism behind bars, previously describing himself as Anglo-Catholic. Nicholas Rossis wife Miranda Knight attended the hearing on Wednesday (Jane Barlow/PA) Mr Shand said Rossi had made a complaint about three prison staff over an incident which was alleged to have occurred last week. He said another inmate had said Rossi has been the victim of abuse from prisoners and from prison staff. Rossi, whose wife Miranda Knight attended the court to listen to proceedings, was expected to appear by video link but did not attend. Mr Shand said: The information passed from the prison is that he declined to make himself available and go to the room which the video link takes place. On previous occasions there have been differing accounts from Mr Knight and staff at the prison as to what went on or didnt. Mr Shand told the court he would not comment any further, and that the hearing could take place in his clients absence. Rossi had applied for an electronic monitoring assessment, but this was declined by Sheriff McFadyen. During the application for the assessment, as well as his treatment in prison, the court was also told of wheelchair user Rossis failing mental and physical health, with Mr Shand saying his clients blood oxygen levels were below 90%. Nicholas Rossis lawyer told the court about his clients health (PA) At the previous hearing in the case, the court set deadlines for all expert reports to be submitted. But the psychiatric report, prepared by Psychology Direct, is still to be submitted. Mr Shand told the court the firm passed on its apologies but it is in the final stages of being prepared. A deadline has been set for next week for it to be sent. Prosecutor Colin Edward said there are now very tight time-scales, with just weeks left until Rossis full extradition hearing is scheduled to begin on June 26. Rossi has claimed to be the victim of mistaken identity and that he is an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight. A sheriff ruled in November that he is Rossi. It is alleged that Rossi faked his own death in 2020 and fled to the UK to evade prosecution for rape. He was arrested in December 2021 in Glasgow after becoming seriously unwell from Covid. A Scottish Prison Service spokesman said: An allegation has been made and is currently under investigation. It would therefore be inappropriate to comment further. We expect the highest standards of behaviour from all our staff, and where they fall short we have procedures in place to deal with this. All individuals in our care have the same right to legal representation and we have procedures in place to facilitate this. British public officials are a legitimate military target because of the UKs support for Ukraine, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has warned. Mr Medvedev, deputy chairman of Vladimir Putins security council, claimed the UKs support for Kyiv amounted to an undeclared war against Russia. His comments came after Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said Ukraine had the right to project force beyond its borders into Russia to resist Mr Putins invasion. The UKs Foreign Secretary Cleverly has stated that Ukraine has the legitimate right to project force beyond its borders to undermine Russias ability to project force into Ukraine itself. According to him, legitimate military targets beyond Ukraines border are part of its Dmitry Medvedev (@MedvedevRussiaE) May 31, 2023 The Ukrainian authorities have denied launching the drone attack which hit Moscow on Tuesday, but there has been an escalation in incidents within Russia either by Kyivs military or local groups opposed to the war. In response to the Foreign Secretary, Mr Medvedev said: The goofy officials of the UK, our eternal enemy, should remember that within the framework of the universally accepted international law which regulates modern warfare, including the Hague and Geneva Conventions with their additional protocols, their state can also be qualified as being at war. Today, the UK acts as Ukraines ally, providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto, is leading an undeclared war against Russia. That being the case, any of its public officials (either military, or civil, who facilitate the war) can be considered as a legitimate military target. UK defence officials believe the incursions into Russia are causing the redeployment of Moscows forces. Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine 31 May 2023. Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/wQzgpFMEfU #StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/2GmVBRftKQ Ministry of Defence (@DefenceHQ) May 31, 2023 The intelligence briefing from the Ministry of Defence said: Since the start of May 2023, Russia has increasingly ceded the initiative in the conflict and is reacting to Ukrainian action rather than actively progressing towards its own war aims. During May 2023, Russia has launched 20 nights of one-way-attack uncrewed aerial vehicle and cruise missile attacks deep inside Ukraine. Russia has had little success in its likely aims of neutralising Ukraines improved air defences and destroying Ukrainian counter-attack forces. On the ground, it has redeployed security forces to react to partisan attacks inside western Russia. In his comments in Estonia on Tuesday, Mr Cleverly said: Legitimate military targets beyond its own border are part of Ukraines self-defence. We should recognise that. That is not to say that I have any particular assessment over the attacks in Moscow but, more broadly, military targets beyond its border are internationally recognised as part of a nations self-defence. Today I welcomed Foreign Secretary @JamesCleverly to Norway.During his visit he will participate in the @NATO Foreign Ministers informal, have bilateral talks with Foreign Minister @AHuitfeldt and attend a reception hosted by HM King Harald pic.twitter.com/0q6JxPJqqo Jan Thompson (@JanThompsonFCDO) May 31, 2023 On Wednesday, the Foreign Secretary visited Norway for a meeting with Nato counterparts. He said: The UK and Nato are making sure Ukraine gets the firepower they need to defend themselves. Scotlands Rural Affairs Secretary has called on the UK Government to engage more on future trade deals as the pact with Australia and New Zealand comes into force. The first deals struck by the UK post-Brexit came into force on Wednesday, with Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch hailing the agreements as a historic moment. But Mairi Gougeon, the Rural Affairs Secretary north of the border, said the deals will not benefit Scottish producers, adding that frustratingly the Scottish Government was not involved in the implementation of the deal. The UK Government, however, has said there were more than 100 hours of policy discussion with the Scottish Government on the deals, describing any assertions to the contrary as untrue. Ms Gougeon had claimed: The UK Governments approach to Brexit continues to undermine devolution and reneges on promises made ahead of the EU referendum. Kemi Badenoch described the deals as a historic moment (Jonathan Brady/PA) Going forward it is imperative that UK ministers work constructively with ministers from the devolved governments and industry to ensure that our agri-food producers are better protected in future trade deals. The Scottish Government has long been critical of both Brexit and UK Government handling of international trade deal negotiations, including raising concerns about the impact on Scotlands farmers. A spokesman for the UK Government said: We have engaged closely with the Scottish Government throughout the negotiation and implementation of these deals, with more than 100 hours of policy discussion. It is untrue to suggest they have not been involved. These trade deals balance economic benefits with robust protections for farmers, will boost Scotlands economy by tens of millions, and cut tariffs on iconic products like Scottish whisky to 0%. But Ms Gougeon said: These trade deals are not good enough for Scotlands producers they have been rushed through and the UK Governments own economic modelling shows that the agri-food sector will lose out. These agreements will provide Australian and New Zealand exporters with unfettered access to the UK market, which could allow an influx of goods, often produced to lower cost and regulatory standards, and which could undercut our domestic agri-food producers. By contrast, the EU has secured advantageous terms for the agri-food sector in their trade deal with New Zealand, securing more protective tariff rate quotas and coverage from day one, of over 2,000 food and drink products from the EU Geographical Indicator scheme. Speaking ahead of the trade deals coming into effect, Ms Badenoch said: Today is a historic moment as our first trade deals to be negotiated post-Brexit come into effect. Businesses up and down the country will now be able to reap the rewards of our status as an independent trading nation and seize new opportunities, driving economic growth, innovation and higher wages. To mark the start of the deals, two special consignments of British goods, including copies of the Beano, will be sent to Australia and New Zealand. The SNPs Westminster group has filed its accounts with parliamentary authorities, despite spending six months without an auditor. As a result of the filing, the group will be able to receive so-called Short money expected to be as much as 1.2 million to support its work. Former accountants Johnston Carmichael resigned in October, leaving the party without auditors during a period which included some of the most troubled months in its history. AMS Accountants was appointed earlier this month and was tasked with meeting the deadline of Wednesday at midnight. Peter Grant, the treasurer of the partys Westminster group, said: Im pleased to confirm that the annual return for the SNP Westminster groups Short money for 2022/23 has received a clean audit certificate and has been submitted, on time, to the parliamentary authorities. Peter Grant confirmed the accounts were filed on time (PA) Throughout this process, SNP MPs have remained focused on standing up for Scotland and supporting our hard-working staff. We will continue to hold the Tories and pro-Brexit Labour to account for the damage their policies are inflicting on Scotland. The lack of auditors has been one of a number of issues the SNP has faced in recent months, which has also included an ongoing police probe into its finances which saw the arrest of former chief executive and Nicola Sturgeons husband Peter Murrell and then treasurer Colin Beattie. Both men were released without charge, pending further investigation. The SNP has also had to deal with shifts at the top, with the departure of former first minister Ms Sturgeon sparking a sometimes bruising leadership race eventually won by Humza Yousaf a close Sturgeon ally. Published 31 May 2023 at 4:41 am British stars of hit Apple TV+ show Ted Lasso have joined picket lines in Los Angeles amid the ongoing Hollywood writers strike. Hannah Waddingham, Nick Mohammed, James Lance and Jeremy Swift were all pictured outside Warner Bros studios in Burbank, California on Tuesday. Over 11,500 members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) have been on strike since May 2, primarily over royalties from streaming media. On our final day as Richmond Greyhounds.theres nowhere else we could be. Thank you so much to our magnificent writers room. Wed be NOTHING without you. #WritersStrike #tedlasso #believe pic.twitter.com/YmYpZySiGu Hannah Waddingham. (@hanwaddingham) May 30, 2023 Ted Lasso cast members showed their solidarity ahead of the finale of series three of the award-winning show, which is due to air on Wednesday. Sharing a picture of herself and other cast mates holding placards in front of the studio, Waddingham thanked the shows magnificent writers room. On our final day as Richmond Greyhounds theres nowhere else we could be, she said. Thank you so much to our magnificent writers room. Wed be NOTHING without you. Cast members Billy Harris, Kola Bokinni, Toheeb Jimoh and Moe Jeudy-Lamour, were also pictured, along with Ted Lasso stars Brendan Hunt and Jason Sudeikis. Hunt, who co-created the show alongside Sudeikis and Bill Lawrence, also wrote on Instagram: Much thanks to the gang for taking some time on such a big day to show their support for #wgastrong #tedlasso. A man who stabbed his ex-girlfriend to death in an alleyway has been branded a proper coward by his victims sister for refusing to face court to be jailed. Dennis Akpomedaye, 30, tried to decapitate former girlfriend Anna Jedrkowiak while stabbing her almost 40 times in Ealing, west London, having stalked her from his home in Newport, South Wales, last May. Wearing a balaclava and with his hood up, he waited for the 21-year-old, known as Ania, to finish her shift at a Las Iguanas restaurant before following her and a young man. Akpomedaye was absent on Wednesday as he was jailed at Kingston Crown Court for life with a minimum term of 29 years, having not been present at the trial that ended with his murder conviction. Anna Jedrkowiak (Metropolitan Police/PA) Former justice secretary Dominic Raab had committed to preventing people convicted of the most serious crimes from refusing to appear before the families of their victims after a series of cases provoked outrage. Ms Jedrkowiaks sister, Katareyna Glowacka, 39, who lives in the UK, said Akpomedayes sentence should have been longer as he is a danger to society. Speaking about his non-attendance in court, she added: It just shows his true character, that he is a proper coward. He committed a crime but he is not able to face us, hes not able to look us in the eyes. For me personally, its really disrespectful that he killed my sister and he didnt show any remorse. He never gave any statement why he did it, he just killed her and went about his life like nothing ever happened, which is horrible. She was tearful in court as a statement describing her despair, helplessness and complete disbelief was read out. She said: I am also very angry. I have been robbed of the opportunity to have a sister in my life. Ms Glowacka, who was pregnant when her sister died, added: It is heartbreaking that my little baby boy will never meet his auntie. She said her smart, tenacious and ambitious sister was also caring, kind and thoughtful, and was a gifted musician. Ms Jedrkowiaks mother Danuta, who lives in Poland, said in a statement read to the court: He, this murderer, is still alive and will be for many more years, despite the fact he took my daughters life. She said the barbaric way her daughter died meant her heart broke with grief and despair. Jack Maskell, 21, who worked at Las Iguanas, was walking with Ms Jedrkowiak when she was murdered after the pair had become more than just friends. He told the court: I have been left with indescribable memories that can never been erased. Katareyna Glowacka and Jack Maskell speak to the media outside Kingston Crown Court (Ted Hennessey/PA) It was dark and cruel. I will never unsee what he did to her. Judge Rajeev Shetty told Ms Jedrkowiaks family: You have been present in court for the entire trial and sentence and heard the most painful evidence of Anias last moments. I cannot imagine the horror and upset you have experienced and I know, as has been said, that Anias premature death will leave a hole in your lives that can never be closed. What I can say is that you have behaved with dignity. The sentence cannot do much to help you grieve or recover, save that I hope it at least completes a process of justice being done. Akpomedaye, who was born in Nigeria, met Ms Jedrkowiak online in January 2021 and they dated for around a year before she ended the relationship. In the weeks before her murder, Akpomedaye, who could not accept the break-up, began trying to manipulate her by threatening suicide. Kerim Fuad KC, defending, said: It is truly tragic and awful that a relationship once so full of hope and love can have come to this. The photographs that the jury were shown of the defendant and Ms Jedrkowiak speak of happiness, love and hope for the future. Dominic Raab had committed to preventing people convicted of the most serious crimes from refusing to appear before the families of victims (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Her life was to be ended by the defendants act borne of rejection and jealousy. He told the court that Akpomedaye had been slowly falling down a dark hole, living in maggot-infested squalor and facing financial difficulty. In the weeks before the murder he told Ms Jedrkowiak: We will be together no matter what. I will find you. Police say he has never shown any remorse for the murder, refusing to answer officers questions or attend court for his trial or sentencing. A promised law to pressure killers to appear in court for sentencing is at risk of being shelved after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak refused to commit to the legislation earlier this month. Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk said: Our thoughts remain with the family of Anna Jedrkowiak. Perpetrators of such appalling crimes who fail to face up to the consequences of their actions are cowards who show contempt for devastated friends and family members. Thats why we intend to change the law as soon as possible so families like Annas see justice done. Thomas Cashman was jailed for life with a minimum term of 42 years for fatally shooting nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel at her home in Dovecot, Liverpool, while pursuing a fellow drug dealer. Sex attacker Jordan McSweeney murdered 35-year-old law graduate Zara Aleena as she walked home in Ilford, east London, and was jailed for life with a minimum term of 38 years. Koci Selamaj received life with at least 36 years for murdering primary school teacher Sabina Nessa after travelling to London to carry out an attack on a random woman. All refused to appear in court for sentencing, with judgments being handed down in their absence. On Wednesday, ethnic Serbs in a northern town staged further demonstrations, intensifying efforts to de-escalate the Kosovo conflict. Numerous people were hurt in previous encounters between protestors and NATO-led troops, which sparked worries about the possibility of further hostilities in the hazardous area. Hundreds of Serbs rallied to demand the departure of the Kosovo Special Police and "fake" ethnic Albanian mayors from northern Kosovo, where Serbs are a majority, according to AP News. At a summit in Bratislava, Slovakia, European Union officials met with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti to avert an escalation of the Kosovo crisis. France and Germany have planned a Thursday conference in Moldova with Serbia and Kosovo leaders. Josep Borrell, the head of EU foreign strategy, said the current scenario is "dangerous and unsustainable," thus a prompt de-escalation must be done. Kurti believed Russia was engaged in the latest disturbance because demonstrators graffitied the letter "Z" to show their support for President Putin and the Russian military's aggressiveness in Ukraine. Serbia is allied with Russia, but populist authorities in Belgrade want EU membership. The Serbs are supported by Moscow, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, who also acknowledged that Moscow is carefully watching the situation in Kosovo. Read Also: Donald Trump Critic to Announce 2024 Presidential Bid The demonstration outside Zvecan's municipal hall, 45 kilometers north of Pristina, ended peacefully on Wednesday. However, ethnic Serbs tried to assault municipal buildings on Monday, clashing with Kosovo police and troops and injuring 30 NATO soldiers and 50 protesters. Amid the unrest, NATO sent 700 more troops to Kosovo due to casualties incurred by its peacekeeping forces during the confrontations. Kosovo's important partner, the United States, denounced the government's conduct, canceling its participation in joint military drills and diplomatic discussions. The US also condemned Serbian assaults on NATO forces, according to the BBC. A Conflicted Region Despite being a minority in Kosovo, Serbs predominate in several regions along the Serbian border. Belgrade has not acknowledged Kosovo's 2008 proclamation of independence; hence many Serbs oppose it. For years, tensions have existed between the Serb minority and the government controlled by Albanians. The current conflicts come from disputed local elections in the north, which the overwhelming Serb population boycotted. EU officials are mediating negotiations to improve ties between Serbia and Kosovo. These discussions have yielded several agreements, but implementation is sluggish. There were developments in several areas, such as freedom of mobility, per Al Jazeera. Border changes and land swaps have been proposed as solutions to the Kosovo conflict. Still, many EU countries opposed it out of concern that it could set off a series of repercussions in other ethnically diverse Balkan regions, causing more unrest after the 1990s wars. Related Article: North Korea's Satellite Launch Ends in Failure @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Thousands of people could soon be able to take a new pill to combat migraine headaches after it was recommended to the NHS in England. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellences (Nice) draft guidance published on Wednesday recommended the drug Rimegepant as an option for preventing migraines in up to 145,000 adults, if previous treatments have failed. The Migraine Society says attacks usually last between four and 72 hours and symptoms include disturbed vision, sensitivity to light and sound, feeling sick and vomiting. People in England are set to benefit from a new treatment for preventing migraine following its approval by NICE. Rimegepant is the first oral treatment recommended by NICE for preventing episodic migraines. Learn more: https://t.co/ww5Bc89Saj #NICENews pic.twitter.com/52lfo9TOk3 NICE (@NICEComms) May 31, 2023 Nice says more than 5.6 million people in England are thought to have episodic migraines and around 190,000 attacks are experienced every day. Beta-blockers, antidepressants and epilepsy medicine are used to try to help with the headaches, but can have significant side-effects and can be ineffective, according to Nice. Injections are also used to try to solve migraines, Nice added. The draft guidance recommends the pill, made by Pfizer, for adults who have at least four migraine attacks a month but fewer than 15. Rimegepant is taken as a wafer which dissolves under the tongue. Final guidance is expected next month if there are no appeals. Helen Knight, Nice director of medicines evaluation, said: Each year the lives of millions of people in England are blighted by migraine attacks. For the first time we have recommended an oral treatment for preventing migraines. Rimegepant will now be available for around 145,000 people to choose on the NHS in England. Learn more: https://t.co/ww5Bc89Saj #NICENews pic.twitter.com/30pAmINjAE NICE (@NICEComms) May 31, 2023 They can be extremely debilitating and can significantly affect a persons quality of life. In comments received during consultation on the previous draft guidance, patients and carers described migraine as an invisible disability that affects all aspects of life including family, social activities, mental health, finances and education. Rimegepant is the first oral treatment for migraine to be recommended by Nice and for many thousands of people it is likely to be a welcome and more convenient addition to existing options for a condition that is often overlooked and undertreated. Toby Cousens, head of hospital and internal medicine at Pfizer UK, said: On top of debilitating physical symptoms, migraine can place significant pressure on the professional and personal lives of those living with it, including being forced to take time off work. Todays decision is a positive step forward to help meet the care needs of eligible patients in England and Wales. We are committed to improving the lives of those living with the burden of migraine and will continue to work with Nice and other health bodies in the UK to help further enhance access and care. The Scottish Government has pledged to raise awareness of the risk from wildfires following a massive blaze in the Highlands the smoke from which could be seen from space. Community safety minister Siobhian Brown made the commitment amid suggestions that a wildfire at Cannich, in the hills above Loch Ness, was started by wild campers. Satellite images from Nasa had shown the plume of smoke from the blaze drifting towards the loch on Monday amid clear skies. Two firefighters who were injured after being in an accident in their all-terrain vehicle while tackling the blaze which covers an area measuring roughly eight kilometres by eight kilometres have now been discharged from hospital, the minister told Holyrood. Screenshot from Nasa worldview satellite showing the plume of smoke (centre) from the fire at Cannich, in the hills above Loch Ness in the Highlands, drifting towards the loch on Monday amid clear skies (Nasa/PA) The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said an investigation is ongoing into the incident. Labour Highlands and Islands MSP Rhoda Grant said: In Cannich the suggestions are this was caused by wild camping. I wonder if the minister would look at ways of how to better educate people on the Countryside Code when they are enjoying the outdoors. Ms Brown said she did not have that inside information on how the fire was actually started. But she added she was happy to look at Ms Grants suggestion and see how we can raise awareness and prevent it in the future. The minister thanked all the firefighters and others involved in tackling the blaze, which the SFRS first responded to on Sunday. Ms Brown added: The weather and the condition of vegetation at this time of year lends themselves to fires starting easily and spreading quickly. It is crucial people act safely and responsibly, one heat source can cause ignition and if the wind changes direction the smallest fire can spread and devastate entire communities, hillsides, livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodland and sites of special interest. The fire near Cannich, south of Inverness, has been burning since Sunday afternoon (Balintore Fire Station/PA) Conservative MSP Rachael Hamilton said the fire was estimated to become the largest by area on record, adding that it was a stark reminder of the risks our emergency service men and women take day in day out to keep out. Helicopters have been used to waterbomb the area of the fire which covers an area of around 24.7 square miles with members of the public being warned not to walk their dogs there as a safety precaution. SFRS group commander Niall MacLennan said: As the warm and dry weather continues, so too does the risk of wildfire. The ongoing incident at Cannich shows just how large these fires can become. A mixture of seasonal weather conditions combined with very dry and dead vegetation means there is a heightened risk of fires, which can be started by the careless disposal of cigarettes as well as barbecues or campfires left unattended. Many of our rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by these incidents, which can cause significant environmental and economic damage. Crews are still in attendance at the large-scale wildfire in Cannich near Inverness. The #wildfire warning that has been in place since Friday, 26 May has been extended across many parts of Scotland until Monday, 5 June. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (@fire_scot) May 31, 2023 Cannich has been a challenging incident and our crews are working tirelessly to tackle the fire and stop further spread. Extinguishing a fire on this scale requires a large amount of resources, including the use of helicopters to bolster our response. We will remain on scene until we make the area safe. Ross Ewing, Scottish Land & Estates director of moorland, said: Our thoughts are with the firefighters who have been injured tackling the wildfire in the area around Cannich. Nearly 3,000 hectares of land have already been burned in this fire and it follows on from the huge wildfire near Glenuig in April, which was estimated to be the second largest ever recorded in the UK. Wildfires have a devastating impact on wildlife and habitats, generating catastrophic carbon emissions. They are becoming increasingly frequent in Scotland, partly due to climate change and partly due to a lack of fuel load management in some areas. This wildfire demonstrates how important it is to utilise all the tools at our disposal to manage the fuel load of vegetation, which has been shown to increase wildfire risk. We hope the situation at Cannich will soon be contained so that the scale and extent of damage can be assessed. We are urging anyone going out into the countryside to take care and follow guidance in relation to campfire cooking and when the ground is so dry its recommended not to use either a campfire or a camping stove. Waitrose has apologised to customers after IT issues left shelves bare of some fresh products for days and deliveries disrupted. Branches across the country saw shelves completely bare of bakery, fruit and other fresh items, with essentials not being delivered due to a slow-running system update. The upmarket grocer offered vouchers to compensate some customers, with receipts reading: Were sorry if we did not have everything you were looking for today. Customers in Maidenhead, Cheltenham, Cambridge and the Channel Islands all reported not being able to get the products they wanted ahead over the bank holiday weekend and as late at Tuesday evening. On Wednesday, Waitrose said the root cause of the system update delay had been fixed and the availability of fresh products was improving, with all branches receiving regular deliveries. A spokesman said: We are really sorry that some branches have had low stock. Weve fixed the cause of the issue, with extra deliveries already out with stores. Were grateful for the hard work of our teams and the understanding of our customers. The shortage saw some customers use Twitter to complain. One wrote: Waitrose in Cheltenham has no fruit or veg theyve filled their baskets with wine. Heading to Tesco instead, as you cant grill Chardonnay. Published 31 May 2023 at 1:25 am Train services are being hit by more strike action this week. Train drivers who are members of Aslef will walk out on Wednesday and Saturday, while workers who are members of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) will strike on Friday. Here is a breakdown of each operators plan for strike days: Avanti West Coast is among the operators affected (Luciana Guerra/PA) Avanti West Coast Wednesday: No trains. Friday: One train per hour will run in each direction between London Euston and each of Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and Preston, with a limited service to and from Glasgow. There will be no services to or from North Wales, Shrewsbury, Blackpool, Stoke-on-Trent or Edinburgh, while Macclesfield station will be closed. The first train of the day from Euston will depart at around 8am, and the last will leave shortly after 5pm. Saturday: No trains. c2c Wednesday: Usual timetable. Friday: No major impact but 12-carriage trains will not stop at Limehouse, east London. Saturday: Usual timetable. Caledonian Sleeper Wednesday: Usual timetable. Friday: All services will be operating via the East Coast Main Line due to engineering works. Saturday: The Caledonian Sleeper does not operate on Saturday nights. Chiltern Railways Wednesday: No trains. Friday: Services will be limited to one train per hour from around 8am until 10pm in both directions between London Marylebone and each of Banbury, Oxford and Aylesbury via High Wycombe; and between Amersham and Aylesbury Vale Parkway. No trains will run between Banbury and each of Birmingham and Stourbridge Junction, or between Hatton and Stratford-upon-Avon. Saturday: No trains. CrossCountry Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A limited service will operate. No trains will run between Birmingham New Street and Cardiff Central or Nottingham. Saturday: No trains. East Midlands Railway Wednesday: No trains. Friday: Services will run between 7.30am and 6.30pm. They will be limited to just one train per hour in each direction between London St Pancras and each of Nottingham, Sheffield and Corby, as well as a handful of regional routes such as between Leicester and Lincoln. Saturday: No trains. Elizabeth line Wednesday: Usual timetable. Friday: The Elizabeth line is not involved in the industrial dispute with the RMT but there will be some alterations to its services. These include no trains between Maidenhead and Reading before 7am or after 7pm, and no trains between Brentwood and Shenfield from 11.30pm. Saturday: Usual timetable. Gatwick Express Wednesday: No trains. Friday: No trains but Southern and Thameslink will serve Gatwick Airport until early afternoon. Saturday: No trains. Services to Gatwick Airport will be hit (Gareth Fuller/PA) Grand Central Wednesday: Grand Central is not involved in the industrial dispute with Aslef but there will be minor alterations to its services due to engineering work. Friday: Grand Central is not involved in the industrial dispute with the RMT but there will be minor alterations to its services. Saturday: Usual timetable. Great Northern Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A limited service will run and only between 7am and 7pm. There will be no trains between Ely and Kings Lynn. Saturday: No trains. Great Western Railway Wednesday and Saturday: A limited service will run and only between 7.30am and 6.30pm. The only open routes will be between: London Paddington and Bristol Temple Meads; Reading and Didcot; Reading and Basingstoke; Reading and Redhill; Westbury and Swindon; Cardiff and Bristol; Exeter and Barnstaple; Plymouth and Gunnislake; and Penzance and St Ives. The Night Riviera sleeper service is cancelled. Friday: More routes will be open compared with Wednesday, including additions such as between London Paddington and Cardiff; London Paddington and Plymouth; and Slough and Windsor. Greater Anglia Wednesday: A reduced service will run and only from 7am, with last trains earlier than normal. The only routes open will be between London Liverpool Street and each of Cambridge, Colchester, Norwich and Southend Victoria. Friday: Trains will run between 7am and 11pm. Some routes will have a reduced frequency, but most will have a normal or near-normal service. Saturday: A reduced service will run and only from 7am, with last trains earlier than normal. Most routes will be closed, including between London Liverpool Street and Cambridge. Heathrow Express Wednesday: An hourly service between 7am and 7pm. Friday: Usual timetable. Saturday: No trains. Hull Trains All strike days: Usual timetable. London North Eastern Railway (LNER) All strike days: A limited timetable will operate and only between London Kings Cross and both Edinburgh and Leeds. London Northwestern Railway Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A limited service will run and only between 7am and 7pm. The only open routes will be between Birmingham New Street and each of London Euston, Birmingham International and Liverpool Lime Street. Saturday: No trains. London Overground Wednesday and Friday: London Overground is not involved in the industrial disputes but there will be minor alterations to some services. Saturday: Usual timetable Lumo All strike days: Usual timetable. Merseyrail All strike days: Usual timetable. Northern Wednesday: No trains. Friday: Only a handful of routes will be open, such as between Liverpool Lime Street and Manchester; Leeds and York; and Darlington and Saltburn. Saturday: No trains. ScotRail All strike days: Usual timetable. South Western Railway Wednesday: Services will be reduced and there will be no trains on the Isle of Wight. Friday: A reduced service will operate and only between 7am and 7pm. Saturday: Services will be reduced and there will be no trains on the Isle of Wight. Southeastern Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A reduced service will operate, with some routes closed. Saturday: No trains. Southeastern will run a limited timetable (Gareth Fuller/PA) Southern Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A reduced service will operate and only between 7am and 7pm. No trains will run between Hemel Hempstead and Clapham Junction; London Bridge and Norwood Junction; Southampton Central and Barnham; and Eastbourne and Ashford International. Saturday: No trains. Stansted Express Wednesday and Saturday: Frequencies will be halved to one train per hour in each direction. Friday: Services will not start until after 7am. Thameslink Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A reduced service will operate and only between 7am and 7pm. Services will be split north and south, with nothing running between London St Pancras and London Blackfriars. Saturday: No trains. TransPennine Express Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A reduced timetable will operate and only between Liverpool Lime Street and each of Preston and York; and between Sheffield and Cleethorpes. Saturday: No trains. Transport for Wales All strike days: Transport for Wales is not involved in the industrial disputes but some of its services will be amended. West Midlands Railway Wednesday: No trains. Friday: A limited service will run and only between 7am and 7pm. The only open routes will be between Birmingham New Street and each of Wolverhampton, Rugeley Trent Valley, Lichfield Trent Valley, Redditch and Bromsgrove; between Kidderminster and Whitlocks End/Dorridge via Birmingham Snow Hill; and between Stourbridge Junction and Stourbridge Town. Saturday: No trains. Author Douglas Stuart and Olympic athlete Laura Muir are among those being recognised with honorary degrees from the University of Glasgow. The chief medical officer for England, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, and Mamphela Ramphele, academic and anti-apartheid activist, are also among those who will be honoured on this years commemoration day on June 14. Economist and director general of the World Trade Organisation, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, will also be awarded honorary degrees at the special ceremony which marks the foundation of the University in 1451. Honorary degrees will be awarded to a host of recipients during the course of the universitys summer and winter graduation ceremonies including lawyer and shadow foreign secretary David Lammy and actor Bill Paterson. Shadow foreign secretary David Lammy is also being honoured (Aaron Chown/PA) Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, principal and vice-chancellor at the University of Glasgow, said: Im really delighted to welcome such distinguished individuals from a whole spectrum of backgrounds and disciplines to our university community. Awarding honorary degrees is a way for the university to recognise world-changing achievements and celebrate the successes of these individuals. As a civic institution we want to do more to make a positive impact on the communities we serve, and build on the legacy of the innovators, thinkers and creative minds the university has fostered over the past 572 years. Each of our honorary graduands has made an important difference in their respective fields, bringing benefit to society and to peoples lives across the globe. Douglas Stuart with Scotlands former first minster Nicola Sturgeon at the Edinburgh International Book Festival (Jane Barlow/PA) Dress and textiles historian Barbara Burman and musician Paul Buchanan will also receive honorary degrees during the summer and winter graduations as will Josh Littlejohn, co-founder of the charity Social Bite. And Gita Gopinath, first deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund, will be honoured before giving a Hunter Foundation lecture on June 5 as part of the universitys tercentenary celebrations of alumnus Adam Smith. Douglas Stuart won the Booker Prize in 2020 with his debut novel, Shuggie Bain, which is set in 1980s Glasgow and is about a young boy growing up amid addiction and poverty. Laura Muir won a silver medal in the 1500 metres at the Olympics in Tokyo, which were held a year late in 2021 because of the Covid pandemic. Motorists driving in Alabama on Memorial Day were greeted by an Alabama Department of Transportation digital road sign advertising a white supremacist organisation. Images posted to social media showed the sign board displaying messages including Patriot Front US and Reclaim America. Patriot Front is a white nationalist organisation that, according to the Anti-Defamation League, was responsible for the vast majority of white supremacist propaganda incidents in the US in 2021. Reclaim America is one of the organisations mottos. Motorists driving on Interstate 65 on Monday near the town of Clanton noticed the messages on the sign and began posting to social media about their presence. AL.com reported that one driver reported the presence of the signs to a state trooper around 1pm. Captured these before the trooper waved me to go on. How does this come about? Is it an inside job kind of thing? It also said Road Work Nightly or something on the third slide and it was an actual work zone that followed. Weird as hell. (I-65 near Clanton heading north) pic.twitter.com/7eLeUvnOSK sarah (@sahughz) May 29, 2023 Captured these before the trooper waved me to go on, one motorist wrote on Twitter above photographs of the sign. How does this come about? Is it an inside job kind of thing? It also said Road Work Nightly or something on the third slide and it was an actual work zone that followed. Weird as hell. According to the Alabama Department of Transportation, the sign was hacked. A citizen alerted a nearby state trooper about the message, who then contacted ALDOT, John McWilliams, a public information officer for the departments West Central region, told AL.com. ALDOT personnel immediately responded and turned the message board off. No other message boards on I-65 were affected. Mr McWilliams said the Department of Transportation is investigating how the messages appeared. Alabama is not the only state in which messages of hate have appeared on digital road signs in recent weeks. A similar situation unfolded in Orlando, Florida, earlier this month, where a message board was programmed to read Kill all gays in the early hours of the morning. Police took charge of investigating that incident in its aftermath. Washington The bipartisan agreement to raise the debt ceiling and limit government spending passed a critical test in Congress on Tuesday, advancing out of the House Rules Committee despite opposition from some conservatives. With the clock ticking to prevent the nation from defaulting on its debts the committee, which sets ground rules and the length of time for debating legislation and any amendments allowed, voted 7 to 6 to move the bill to the House floor, where a vote is expected Wednesday. Two members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus who sit on the panel Rep. Chip Roy of Texas and Rep. Ralph Norman of South Carolina voted against allowing it to move forward, saying it does little to rein in government spending. They would have needed one more Republican on the committee to join them to sideline the deal, which President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy reached over the weekend after weeks of talks. But Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, a third conservative on the committee, provided the deciding vote in advancing the legislation. "When people want to express their ideology, the floor of the House on the actual final passage of the bill is the place to do that," Massie said. The House Rules Committee is just the first hurdle the deal has to clear before its potential final passage. Congress is trying to get the legislation across the finish line before Monday, when Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has projected the federal government will run out of cash to pay its bills. A growing number of Republicans have said they'll vote no, including Reps. Wesley Hunt of Texas, Nancy Mace of South Carolina and Cory Mills of Florida. The House Freedom Caucus is also rallying other Republicans to vote against it. "This deal fails, fails completely," Freedom Caucus chairman Scott Perry said at a news conference Tuesday ahead of the Rules Committee vote. "That's why these members and others will be absolutely opposed to the deal and we will do everything in our power to stop it." "Not one Republican should vote for this deal. It is a bad deal," Roy added. Rep. Dan Bishop of North Carolina called it a "career-defining vote for every Republican." "If there is any path to salvaging what we began as a unified conference, if there is any path to that, this bill, if it passes, must pass with less than half of the Republican conference," Bishop said. But nearly two dozen House Republicans appeared at a late-night news conference in support of the legislation, touting it as a win for conservatives. The session with reporters followed a long closed-door meeting where members raised their concerns with the bill. Majority Leader Steve Scalise, of Louisiana, said, "The more that people read in this bill, the more they find in terms of real conservative victories." He said it will help rein in government spending and get the economy back on track, stressing that, "There are a number of pieces in this bill that never would have existed if Nancy Pelosi was still Speaker of the House." McCarthy has said he expects a majority of House Republicans to support the measure. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said it's his understanding that at least 150 Republicans would vote for the deal, which means at least 68 Democrats would be needed to pass the bill in the House. But in an interview with "Face the Nation" on Sunday, Jeffries demurred when asked how many Democrats would back it. The deal also faces opposition in the Democratic-controlled Senate, where it needs 60 votes to pass. Republican Sen. Mike Lee of Utah said it doesn't go far enough to reduce spending, while GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said he opposes caps on defense spending that could take effect later in the year if Congress doesn't approve government spending bills. Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky said he plans to offer an amendment "with responsible reforms and necessary cuts." Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia is seeking to remove a new natural gas pipeline project from the bill, his office said Monday. The bill would fast-track construction of the pipeline, which would carry natural gas from West Virginia to Virginia. "This provision is completely unrelated to the debt ceiling matter," his spokeswoman said in a statement. "He plans to file an amendment to remove this harmful Mountain Valley Pipeline provision." Sneak peek: Death Hits Home: The Hargan Killings Chris Christie to enter 2024 presidential race Nationwide lifeguard shortage causing staffing issues at beaches and pools The debt ceiling deal brokered by President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy cleared a major procedural hurdle on Tuesday night, just days before a potential default by the U.S. government. The House Rules Committee gave the green light for the Fiscal Responsibility Act to advance to the full House so members can hold a planned vote on Wednesday night before sending the legislation to the Senate ahead of Mondays default deadline. The panel advanced the bill to the floor for debate in a narrow 7-6 vote. In a big win for Republican leadership, Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky -- a GOP hard-liner and fiscal hawk -- voted in favor of the rule. MORE: Congress has days to OK debt limit deal before default: Timeline of what's next "Today's bill is a product of compromise and reflects the realities of a divided government," Oklahoma Republican Rep. Tom Cole, who supported the rule for the proposal, said as he began the meeting. In his own remarks, Massie said, "My interest in being on this committee was not to imprint my ideology. I think that is an inappropriate use of the committee." He later told reporters he planned to vote for the deal on the floor. The other House Freedom Caucus members on the committee, Reps. Chip Roy of Texas and North Carolina's Ralph Norman, vowed to try to block the bill from moving forward and ultimately voted against the rule, along with the four Democratic members. PHOTO: Representative Norman (R-SC) questions a witness alongside Representatives Massie (R-KY) and Roy (R-TX) during a House Committee on Rules hearing about whether to raise the United States' debt ceiling and avoid default, the Capitol, May 30, 2023. (Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters) "Not one Republican should vote for this deal. It is a bad deal," Roy said earlier Tuesday at a House Freedom Caucus press conference. He also issued a veiled threat that there could be consequences if the deal goes through. "We will continue to fight today, tomorrow," Roy said. "And no matter what happens, there's going to be a reckoning about what just occurred, unless we stop this bill by tomorrow." Rep. Scott Perry, the chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, dodged questions at the news conference on whether he'd support a motion to vacate -- a rule that would allow any House member to force a vote to attempt to remove the speaker. PHOTO: Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) looks on during a House Rules Committee meeting on debt ceiling legislation at the Capitol on May 30, 2023. (Francis Chung/POLITICO via AP Images) "I'll let each member speak for themselves. For me, I am focused on defeating this bill. What happens post that, and the agreements we have, we will decide once we determine the disposition of the bill in its finality," Perry said. McCarthy shrugged off the criticism from those in his party, specifically some who claim the party was "outsmarted" by Democrats. "How were we outsmarted, the largest cut in the history of Congress, the biggest ability to pull money back?" McCarthy said. MORE: Key questions and takeaways from the debt ceiling deal Getting the bill through Congress will hinge on support from moderates in both parties. The White House and Republican leaders have been holding calls and briefings to sell the deal, with more meetings planned, ABC News has reported. Lawmakers face a time crunch to pass the debt ceiling deal because Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned the "X-date" -- when the government could run out cash to pay all its bills in full and on time -- could happen as early as June 5. PHOTO: Rep. Chip Roy speaks about his opposition to the tentative agreement between the White House and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to raise the debt limit, outside the US Capitol in Washington, D.C., on May 30, 2023. (Jim Lo Scalzo/EPA via Shutterstock) House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Tuesday Republicans have said they will deliver 150 votes from their party, and "House Democrats will make sure that the country does not default." The New Democrat Coalition, made up of roughly 100 House Democrats, has endorsed the debt ceiling deal. Asked about the vote tallies, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young (a key negotiator in the debt talks) stopped short of declaring victory, telling reporters she'd leave that to Congress. "All I know is when you enter into good faith negotiations, you don't negotiate to see a bill posted," she said at the daily White House briefing. "You negotiate to make sure it gets to the president's desk and we'll fulfill our part when it gets to the president's desk." The Fiscal Responsibility Act includes a two-year government budget in exchange for lifting the debt ceiling through Jan. 1, 2025. The bill would keep non-defense spending flat in fiscal 2024 and increase levels by 1% in fiscal 2025. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office on Tuesday night released its score -- or fiscal analysis -- of the debt ceiling deal, estimating that it would reduce the federal deficit by $1.5 trillion over 10 years. The interest on the public debt in that time period would also decline by $188 billion, according to the CBO. PHOTO: Director of the Office of Budget and Management Shalanda Young speaks during the daily briefing in the Brady Briefing Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on May 30, 2023. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images) Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has said his chamber will take up the bill as soon as it passes the House. He advised his colleagues to prepare for possible Friday and weekend votes if there's not unanimous cooperation. If there's a filibuster, it could push the chamber past the June 5 default deadline. Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, previously threatened to "use every procedural tool at my disposal to impede a debt-ceiling deal" he didn't agree with. MORE: Debt ceiling drama hurting American families: 'We're being treated like numbers' Schumer and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, in a rare moment of unity, both praised the debt limit deal in floor remarks on Tuesday. "I support the bipartisan agreement that President Biden has produced with Speaker McCarthy. Avoiding default is an absolute imperative," Schumer said. McConnell said while no one got everything they wanted, "the American people got a whole lot more progress towards fiscal sanity than Washington Democrats wanted to give them. Speaker McCarthy and House Republicans deserve our thanks." ABC News' Ben Gittleson, Molly Nagle, Rachel Scott and Trish Turner contributed to this report. Debt ceiling deal to prevent default narrowly passes 1st big test in key House committee originally appeared on abcnews.go.com NEW YORK (AP) A third man has been charged in the 2002 shooting death of Run-DMC star Jam Master Jay, prosecutors said Tuesday, marking the latest movement in a case that languished for years. Federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of New York filed a superseding indictment on Tuesday, charging Jay Bryant, 49, in the death of Jason Jay Mizell, known professionally as Jam Master Jay. Two other men, Ronald Washington and Karl Jordan Jr., had previously been indicted in August 2020 for the death of Jay. The hip-hop trailblazer was shot in the head in his studio on Oct. 30, 2002. Bryant's attorney, Cesar de Castro, said in an email that they had just learned of the charges. Securing an indictment in a secret grand jury, applying an extremely low burden of proof, is one thing. Proving it at trial is another matter, he said. Bryant, from Queens, was in custody already on unrelated federal drug charges. At the time the other two men were indicted, authorities said Jay's death involved a drug deal gone bad. In a letter filed with the court on Tuesday, prosecutors said Bryant and the two other men entered the building that evening, and then fled after the shooting. They said Bryant was seen going into the building, and his DNA was recovered at the scene. Jay was in Run-DMC with Joseph Run Simmons and Darryl DMC McDaniel in the early 1980s. The group helped bring hip-hop music into the mainstream. Run DMC's hits include King of Rock, "Its Tricky and a remake of Aerosmiths Walk This Way. For years, Jay's death lingered as a cold case, with witnesses reluctant to speak up despite reward money being offered. NEW YORK (AP) Little Amal, a 12-foot (3.7-meter) puppet of a Syrian refugee, will journey across the United States this fall, visiting key places in America's history to raise awareness about immigration and migration. The puppet of the 10-year-old girl will visit the U.S. Capitol, Boston Common, Joshua Tree National Park and the Edmund Pettus Bridge among other sites during a trek which starts in Boston on Sept. 7 and ends Nov. 5 along the U.S.-Mexico border. There is something in the act of welcoming a stranger which redefines you, says Amir Nizar Zuabi, the artistic director. I think thats part of what were trying to create when walking into places that have a beautiful, complicated, defining history. Stops are also planned for Philadelphia, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta, the Tennessee cities of Nashville and Memphis, New Orleans, the Texas cities of Austin, Houston, San Antonio and El Paso, as well as the California cities of Los Angeles and San Diego. Obviously theres a lot of specific points in our American history that we felt that we needed to address and thats the reason why were starting in Boston, says Enrico Dau Yang Wey, lead puppeteer and co-associate artistic director. The reason why we're finishing in San Diego is that theres just such a thin line between the United States and Mexico. Little Amal demands empathy, the puppet of a vulnerable, naive girl who is in a strange place after surviving a long ordeal alone. Shes just a symbol of millions of children, says Zuabi. Just having a community breathe together and walk with Amal for a stretch in the streets becomes a very, very meaningful act. Organizers are reaching out to community artists and leaders at each of the 35 stops including places revered in Civil Rights Movement history like Selma, Alabama, and recent scenes of gun violence like Uvalde, Texas to create more than 100 special events anchored by each place visited. We work very closely with our local partners and try and understand what is the story theyre trying to tell and try to co-create an event that resonates in this place to this community, says Zuabi. I think thats part of why this project becomes so emotional for many people. Little Amal was created by the Handspring Puppet Company of South Africa, who made the award-winning puppets for the hit show War Horse. She requires four puppeteers at each visit, three to move her head and limbs and one to collect items people give her. A total of nine puppeteers will make the coast-to-coast trek with Little Amal. A lot of the ways we think about refugees, about immigrants, about migration, are formed and informed in American, says Zuabi. In a way, thats a discussion we want to join and learn and listen. Last year, the puppet made a 17-day circuit through every corner of New York City, including joining a reading of the book Julian Is a Mermaid at the Brooklyn Public Library and a drum circle in Harlem. This June, she will be in Toronto. The puppet completed a 5,000-mile (8,050-kilometer) trek across Europe in 2021, from the Syrian-Turkish border to northwest England, traveling through 12 countries including greeting refugees from Ukraine at a Polish train station and stopping at refugee camps in Greece and meeting with Pope Francis. Wey describes Little Amal as a miraculous thing that pulls people together suddenly to create a collective sense of empathy and a collective sense of awe. Every time its different and every time you learn a little bit more. Its one of those things where we learn on the job, he adds. I have to get a new pair of walking boots. ___ Mark Kennedy is at http://twitter.com/KennedyTwits Al Pacino is about to have his fourth baby with his girlfriend, Noor Alfallah. The Godfather star, 83, and his 29-year-old partner, Alfallah, are expecting a child. Alfallah is eight months along in her pregnancy. Stan Rosenfield, Pacino's representative, confirmed the news to USA Today on Wednesday, May 31. Pacino and Alfallah were first linked in April 2022 when they were seen leaving a dining establishment together in Venice, California. Pacino has a 33-year-old daughter named Julie Marie with ex-girlfriend Jan Tarrant, as well as twins aged 22 named Anton and Olivia with ex Beverly D'Angelo. Meanwhile, this will be Alfallah's firstborn kid. For nearly a year, she was romantically connected to Mick Jagger until the two broke up in 2018. Pacino on His Relationship With His Children Pacino had previously spoken about his desire to make a lasting impression on his children, particularly in light of the fact that his own father abandoned the family when he was only two years old. In 2014, he explained to The New Yorker that this was "the missing link, so to speak." He added, "Having children has helped a lot. I consciously knew that I didn't want to be like my dad. I wanted to be there. I have three children. I'm responsible for them. I'm a part of their life." The actor said that he feels guilty whenever his career prevents him from spending time with his kids. Pacino's newest kid comes only a few short weeks after his longtime friend and former co-star Robert De Niro, 79, declared having his seventh child. De Niro and Pacino worked together in the film The Irishman (2019). De Niro dropped the bombshell earlier this month when he corrected a remark regarding having six children. "Seven, actually. I just had a baby," he told ET Canada, as reported by Fox News. A few days later, on CBS Mornings, De Niro debuted the first portrait of his daughter, Gia Virginia. He confirmed that his new baby was born on April 6 with his girlfriend, Tiffany Chen. Also Read: Ryan Gosling Responds to Naysayers Calling Him Too Old to Play Ken in 'Barbie' Who is Noor Alfallah? Alfallah is not new to the perks of wealthy living and being a celebrity. According to Evening Standard, Alfallah was raised in the affluent and privileged Beverly Hills district of Los Angeles, despite being born in Kuwait to an American mother and a Kuwaiti father. She got her education at UCLA School of Film and Television. The wealth of Alfallah's family was estimated to be "in the high nine-figures," according to a 2013 article in the New York Post. Alfallah is the vice president of Lynda Obst Productions at Sony, where he works in the film industry. Also Read: Sia Announces She's Autistic 2 Years After "Music" Controversy @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Not there for the No. 1 guy in the group? A Vanderpump Rules fan was reportedly escorted out of Tom Sandovals recent concert in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, after showing support for Ariana Madix. In footage from the Monday, May 29, event, an unidentified woman is seen holding a sign that reads Team Ariana while watching Sandoval, 40, and The Most Extras perform. The video, which was obtained by Page Six, showed the attendee flipping the TomTom cofounder off before security removed her from the venue. Everything to Know About the Tom Sandoval, Ariana Madix and Raquel Leviss Cheating Scandal - 175 Read article Sandoval, for his part, appeared unfazed as he continued to sing various covers of songs with his band members. The reality star later took to social media to thank fans for supporting him on the creative endeavor. Thank u so much everyone for coming to the shows! Theyve been so much fun, & such a blast! Sandoval wrote on Tuesday, May 30, alongside Instagram photos from multiple concerts throughout the month. Stephanie Augello/Shutterstock The Missouri native has been touring with his band since news broke about his affair with Raquel Leviss. Us Weekly confirmed in March that Sandoval and Madix, 37, called it quits after nearly a decade of dating due to his infidelity. In response to the drama, Sandoval issued two public statements after he was slammed for not including Madix in his first social media apology. The bar owner, who hooked up with Leviss, 28, for the first time in August 2022, later claimed he tried to end his relationship with the Florida native before his affair came to light. Stephanie Augello/Shutterstock; Jen Lowery/MEGA We didnt tell anybody, but she knew, he alleged on an episode of the Howie Mandel Does Stuff podcast in April. She was trying to, like convince me not to be broken up but that was not the case. She asked me that day as we were leaving about, like because we had talked about fertilizing [her] eggs, which I never did. She was like, So, what do you think about doing a sperm check to fertilize my eggs? And Im like, What? Were broken up. I was like, Well talk about this later, I gotta go do my show.' Tom Sandoval and Ariana Madix Red Carpet 2022 MTV Movie And TV Awards UNSCRIPTED Read article Madix, for her part, offered her version of events following Sandovals claims that they discussed a split amid his secret romance with Leviss. He got me flowers, we went to Schwartz & Sandys for dinner and we brought a super special bottle of wine that was special to us, she said on an episode of the Call Her Daddy podcast earlier this month, referring to their date on Valentines Day and an hours-long conversation about Sandovals mid-life crisis. The Something About Her cofounder continued: And I said, If we break up, Im probably going to quit the show. I will probably leave Los Angeles, Ill probably deactivate my Instagram. And he found that to be, like, very offensive. I was never saying that I was going to kill myself. I was saying that my life this life will be over for me because I will go do something else. He knows that thats not what I was saying. Vanderpump Rules Cast Dating History Inside Stars Love Lives Lala Kent Scheana Shay Jax Taylor Read article Madix, who has since been linked to Daniel Wai, went on to say that she has no plans to forgive Leviss or Sandoval. To be very clear, I didnt lose him. He lost me, she added. Its now hard for me to look back at nine years and if I tell myself hes a pathological liar, then it means that the last nine years of my life were potentially a lie. Us Weekly has reached out to Sandovals rep for comment. A third person has been indicted in the killing of Run-DMC DJ Jam Master Jay, more than two decades after he was found fatally shot in his New York studio and nearly three years after two men were charged in the crime, officials said Tuesday. Jay Bryant, 49, was charged with the murder of Jam Master Jay, whose real name was Jason Mizell, while engaged in narcotics trafficking, according to a superseding indictment filed in federal court in New York's Eastern District. Bryant, who also faces a firearms charge, is being held on unrelated federal drug charges and is expected to be arraigned later, a spokesperson for the prosecutor's office said. In a detention memo, the prosecutor's office said Bryant was observed entering the DJ's Queens recording studio immediately before the shooting on Oct. 20, 2002. A piece of clothing left at the scene contained his DNA, according to the memo. Bryant allegedly claimed to an associate that he was the gunman who shot Mizell, but the memo cast doubt on the claim and said evidence to be presented at a coming trial would show that another person charged in the killing, Karl Jordan Jr., fired twice from close range. One of the shots struck an unidentified person in the leg, the memo says. After Mizell was hit in the head, Bryant, Jordan and a third person, Ronald Washington, fled, the memo says. Washington, who was accused of pointing a gun at someone inside the studio and ordering the person to lie on the floor, was indicted on the same charges as Bryant. Jordan was charged with those crimes and others, including multiple counts of cocaine distribution. In the detention memo, prosecutors argued that Bryant should remain behind bars while awaiting trial because he's a flight risk and poses a danger to the community. The memo points to previous drug charges, apparent multiple aliases and a statement Bryant is said to have made to authorities suggesting that he would flee to Cuba if he were released. A lawyer for Bryant said Tuesday that he had just learned of the charges. Mr. Bryant will be pleading not guilty, attorney Cesar de Castro said in an email. "Securing an indictment in a secret grand jury, applying an extremely low burden of proof, is one thing. Proving it at trial is another matter. Jordan and Washington pleaded not guilty. In a sworn statement, Washington previously said Mizell was a childhood friend, and he described the detectives investigating the case as hostile. A lawyer for Washington on Tuesday called Bryant's indictment a "game changer" and said his claims undercut the prosecution's case. "What were they gonna do if this case went to trial in Febas scheduled?" the lawyer, Susan Kellman, said in an email. A lawyer for Jordan did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday night. Jam Master Jay of Run DMC Gesturing at Microphone (Lynn Goldsmith / Corbis/VCG via Getty Images file) After the 2020 indictment of Washington and Jordan, the prosecutors office said the motive for the killing hinged on Mizells previous acquisition of 10 kilograms of cocaine from a supplier in the Midwest. The cocaine was allegedly intended to be distributed in Maryland by Washington, Jordan and other co-conspirators. Mizell had recently informed Washington that the defendant would not be involved in distributing the narcotics in Maryland, which precipitated the murder conspiracy. Mizells family said at the time that it had mixed emotions about the indictment. "We truly hope that these indictments are a solid step toward justice being served in the murder of Jay," his family said. With its distinct style and mainstream hits that became rap anthems, Run-DMC is considered one of the most influential hip-hop acts of the 1980s. The group was founded in the Hollis section of Queens by Mizell and two other members Joseph Simmons and Darryl McDaniels and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2009. (Photo: Walt Disney Studios) If youd thought Harrison Ford had hung up the iconic battered fedora for good, think again. Everyones favorite archeology professor is back for one final adventure in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, which rolls into theaters on June 30, 2023. This time around, Ford is joined by Fleabag star Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who plays his goddaughter and potential protege, Helena. John Rhys-Davies, who appeared in both Raiders of the Lost Ark and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, is also set to return. Need to catch up on the classic adventure franchise? Youre in luck, because as of today, all four Indiana Jones movies are now available to stream on Disney+. Plus, for the first time in 15 years, Disney has released the 90s spinoff series: The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones. Heres how and where to watch the Indiana Jones franchise in chronological order, plus everything you need to know about Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. When does Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny come out? (Photo: Walt Disney Studios) The fifth film in the Indiana Jones franchise premieres exclusively in theaters on Friday, June 30, 2023. Get tickets Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny cast: Harrison Ford, hat in hand, returns as Indiana Jones in Dial of Destiny alongside a buzz-worthy new co-star: Phoebe Waller-Bridge. The Fleabag creator plays Indys goddaughter in the storys latest chapter. Other additions to the cast include Mads Mikkelsen, Boyd Holbrook and Antonio Banderas. The late Sean Connery will not appear in the new Indiana Jones movie, though some of the plot does play out in flashbacks from a younger Indy's life. Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny trailer: Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny streaming Currently, there is no official streaming release date for the new Indiana Jones film, however, since Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny is being released by Disney, we can expect that the movie will eventually be available to stream on Disney+ following its theatrical run. How to watch every Indiana Jones movie (and one series) in chronological order: While Indiana Jones first stole our hearts in the 1981 George Lucas and Steven Spielberg film Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indys story somewhat-canonically begins with The Adventures of Young Indiana Jones (which originally aired under the title of The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles). Heres the Indiana Jones movie order chronologically, plus where to stream Indiana Jones. Coming soon: Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny Get tickets How to watch Indiana Jones in release date order: A South Carolina gas station owner has been charged with murder for fatally shooting a 14-year-old boy whom he falsely accused of stealing four bottles of water. Rick Chow, 58, chased Cyrus Carmack-Belton from his Xpress Mart Shell store in Columbia before shooting the teen in the back at around 8pm on Sunday, the Richmond County Sheriffs Department said in a press conference on Monday, according to WIS10. Mr Chow had suspected the teenager of shoplifting, and after a verbal altercation Carmack-Belton fled the store, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott told reporters. Mr Chow grabbed a pistol and pursued the teenager with his son. Carmack-Belton fell to the ground outside an apartment building, and when he got back up Mr Chow fired, investigators said. A review of security footage by the sheriffs department found the shoplifting claims were false and the teenager had returned the bottles of water to a refrigerator, he said. Its senseless, it doesnt make sense, Sheriff Lott said during Mondays press conference. South Carolina gas station owner Rick Chow has been charged with murder after shooting 14-year-old Cyrus Carmack-Belton (Richland County Sheriff's Department) Carmack-Belton, 14, was allegedly shot by Chow after being falsely accused of shoplifting (Handout) Even if he had shoplifted four bottles of water, which he had taken out of the cooler and then put back even if he had done that, thats not something you should shoot anybody over, much less a 14-year-old, he added. You just dont do that. Deputies responding to the shooting on Sunday found Carmack-Belton lying on the side of the road. Sheriff Lott said a gun had been found near his body, but that there was no indication he had pointed the weapon at anyone. He was taken to hospital and pronounced dead. The Xpress Mart Shell station in Columbia, South Carolina, was looted after Sundays fatal shooting (Associated Press) Coroner Naida Rutherford said the teenager had died from a single shot to the lower right back. She said the wounds were consistent with someone who was running away, and should be classed as a homicide. This was not an accidental shooting by any means This was a very intentional shooting. And unfortunately, Cyrus Carmack-Belton lost his life, she said. In a TikTok, Ms Rutherford told through tears how she had a son the same age as Carmack-Belton. He could be my son, do you guys understand that? He could be any of our kids, she said. I think Im just like everybody else in the world Im just tired, Im just tired of seeing our young black men killed, Ms Rutherford said. The sheriffs department said that a crowd that gathered to protest the shooting on Monday had been dispersed after it turned violent. A South Carolina Shell station was vandalised after the owner shot dead a 14-year-old boy on Sunday (Associated Press) Deputies had arrived to find windows smashed, and looters stealing items from the store. Dozens of crushed water bottles littered the parking lot, and graffiti reading Cyrus and 14 covered the story, the Associated Press reported. Those responsible for destruction would face prosecution, the sheriff said in a statement. Mr Chow appeared in court on Tuesday, and was ordered to be held in bail pending a bail. Former first lady Rosalynn Cater has dementia, the Carter family confirmed today. "The Carter family is sharing that former First Lady Rosalynn Carter has dementia. She continues to live happily at home with her husband, enjoying spring in Plains and visits with loved ones," reads a statement shared on the Carter Center's website. Rosalynn, 95, lives in Plains, Georgia with her husband, former president Jimmy Carter, 98. In February, Jimmy entered hospice care, but remains in good spirits, according to his grandson. Diana Walker - Getty Images The Carter family noted that Rosalynn "has been the nations leading mental health advocate for much of her life. First in the Georgia Governors Mansion, then in the White House, and later at The Carter Center, she urged improved access to care and decreased stigma about issues surrounding mental health." They also shared that one in 10 older Americans have dementia, and that there's stigma around getting support. "We recognize, as she did more than half a century ago, that stigma is often a barrier that keeps individuals and their families from seeking and getting much-needed support," the Carter family wrote. "We hope sharing our family's news will increase important conversations at kitchen tables and in doctors offices around the country." The statement ended, "As the founder of the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers, Mrs. Carter often noted that there are only four kinds of people in this world: those who have been caregivers; those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers. The universality of caregiving is clear in our family, and we are experiencing the joy and the challenges of this journey." The Washington Post - Getty Images Just last week, Rosalynn and Jimmy's grandson Jason Carter shared of his grandparents, "Their faith is really grounding in this moment. In that way, its as good as it can be." The Carter family said they do not expect to comment further on Rosalynn's health. You Might Also Like Oofos, Vionics, Crocs and more: These comfy shoes are doctor-approved! (Photo: Amazon) Wearing the right shoes can make all the difference between going about your day in comfort and dealing with foot pain. But things tend to get a little complicated when you hit the beach or pool, where flip-flops and sandals reign supreme. After all, most people aren't going to hang near the water in lace-up, supportive sneakers. So, what do foot doctors wear during their off-time when they head to the beach? We polled five different doctors for their go-to summer fun footwear. "Footwear on the beach can be fun and fashionable," Melissa Lockwood, a podiatrist at Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates in Illinois, tells Yahoo Life. "I recommend a strong supportive sandal think, Vionic for staying on the sand." Lockwood also gives Oofos the thumbs up, both for their support and ease of cleaning. "Oofos are my favorite right now because they are so easy to clean the sand off of," she says. "Sandals should have a thick sole and not be flimsy," says Claire Capobianco, a foot and ankle surgeon at Orthopaedic Associates of Southern Delaware, tells Yahoo Life. She likes these Birkenstock sandals for the beach and pool. "Good fit is paramount," Capobianco adds. "No toes hanging over the edge of your sandals!" Capobianco also gives classic Crocs her vote, "especially in four wheel drive mode with the the back strap downit's good for hiking up and down dunes, and pulling beach carts." "For people who want something a bit more economical and with excellent support but not quite as high of an arch as the Vionic the Spenco sandals are great," Richard H. Graves, a podiatrist at Sol Foot and Ankle Centers in California, tells Yahoo Life. Graves calls Vionic sandals his "personal favorite." He continues, "They have a great arch support that feels almost as good as my custom orthotics. The outer sole has just the right amount of stiffness and I can wear them all day without having foot pain." "I like the Mephisto Shark due to its durability and excellent design," Bruce Pinker, a foot and ankle surgeon with New Yorks Progressive Foot Care, tells Yahoo Life. "I have worn a few of this model, and one pair lasted nearly 10 years! They are well-constructed." Sondema Tarr, a foot and ankle specialist at Direct Podiatry Arizona, tells Yahoo Life that she prefers sandals made of synthetic materials. "If your shoe were to get wet, you wouldn't have to worry about the possibility of mold, or the materials of the shoe being destroyed," she explains. "Right now I wear the Arizona Essential Slide Sandal from Birkenstock." If you have Amazon Prime, youll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.) The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication. The name Raymond Leon Richmond III didnt make the news when Richmond killed a man outside a Columbus nightclub while breaking into the victims car. His identity was withheld because Richmond was only 14, a juvenile under Georgia law, when he shot Samuel Devoid London in a parking lot at the Foxy Lady, a lounge at 3023 Victory Drive. Police said Richmond was with other teens who went there to steal from cars, and London caught him going through Londons 2019 Jeep Compass around 2 a.m., June 5, 2020. Richmond shot him as they fought over the vehicle, investigators said, and London, 40, died in the hospital about an hour later. Now Richmonds 17, legally an adult who pleaded guilty Wednesday to voluntary manslaughter before Judge John Martin, who sentenced him to 30 years in prison with 22 to serve and the rest on probation. Richmond pleaded guilty also to illegally entering an auto and to using a gun to commit a crime. Superior Court Judge John Martin sentenced Raymond Leon Richmond III to 30 years in prison with 22 to serve and the rest on probation during a Wednesday morning hearing in Columbus, Georgia. 05/31/2023 His public defender, Steve Craft, said psychological evaluations revealed Richmond has an intellectual disability, so he pleaded guilty but intellectually disabled to the charges. The case was assigned to a special prosecutor, Christopher George of the Prosecuting Attorneys Council of Georgia, because District Attorney Stacey Jackson had a conflict of interest, having represented one of Richmonds codefendants back when Jackson was in private practice. George wanted Martin to sentence Richmond to the maximum of 30 years in prison, arguing Richmond posed a public safety risk, having armed himself to commit car burglaries with his cohorts. What were they going to get? George asked. Nothing worth taking a life over. Kids and car break-ins Craft asked Martin to consider Richmonds age at the time and his disability, which left him vulnerable to bad influences. Richmonds father repeatedly has been in and out of prison over the years, leaving his son to find other mentors, the attorney said. Outside court, Craft said the people with whom Richmond associated loosely formed a street gang that used juveniles for car break-ins, because underage offenders typically face lighter penalties in juvenile court. A minor could be given a month in a juvenile detention center for illegally entering a car, Craft said, but an adult could get five years in prison. Columbus police also have said gangs commonly employ juveniles for certain crimes, and state legislators this year increased penalties for gang members who recruit minors. Richmond and his alleged accomplices fled after Londons shooting, but left incriminating evidence behind. George said Richmond had wrapped a white T-shirt over his hand to open car doors, so he wouldnt leave fingerprints. After he fell atop London and fired the pistol as the two struggled, he discarded the T-shirt and the gun as he ran. On the T-shirt, police found DNA evidence matching Richmond, George said. He helped everyone Speaking Wednesday on behalf of Londons family, sister Eunice London said her brother was a joyful man who brightened everyones mood. His smile was very contagious, and if you were upset, he knew what to say to brighten your day, she said. Sam could melt the coldest hearts. He helped everyone as if he were their family. He was born with sickle-cell anemia, and he would suffer severely as a result, she said, but he did not let that discourage him. His faith in the Lord helped him whenever he was sick, she said. Whenever you spoke to him, you could hear the joy in his voice. Sam would always be smiling. Other suspects Four other suspects in Londons homicide still face charges of felony murder and entering an auto. They are: Cecil Brian Berguin III, 20. Victrez Jaequan Thomas, 20. Santonio Lamar Williams, 18. Jyquarious D. Varner, 17. Like Richmond, Varner was only 14 when the shooting occurred. Williams was 15, at the time, and both Berguin and Thomas were 17, court records show. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) The supreme leader of the Taliban met in Afghanistan with Qatar's prime minister this month, the first-such publicly known meeting between the Taliban's reclusive leader and a foreign official, the Al Jazeera satellite news network reported Wednesday. Haibatullah Akhunzada met Qatar's Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on May 12 in Afghanistan's southern city of Kandahar, the spiritual birthplace of the Taliban, Al Jazeera English said. Sheikh Mohammed also is the foreign minister of Qatar, an energy-rich nation on the Arabian Peninsula. The state-owned broadcaster did not specifically discuss what the two officials spoke about, though it described the meeting as aimed at ways to end the Taliban's international isolation. Qatari government officials declined to discuss the meeting, which Reuters first reported. The Taliban did not respond to requests for comment regarding the meeting. The U.S. State Department declined to comment. It's unclear what effect such a meeting will have. The Taliban seized Afghanistan in August 2021 as U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. In the time since, Afghanistan has become the most repressive in the world for women and girls, depriving them of virtually all their basic rights, according to the U.N. Hunger remains endemic. Taliban fighters also exchanged gunfire with Iranian border guards on Saturday. Qatar, which hosts a major U.S. military base in the region, served as a crucial point for those fleeing the Taliban in the chaotic days of the American withdrawal from Afghanistan. Qatar also hosts a diplomatic post for the Taliban and hosted talks between the group and then-President Donald Trump's administration. CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) Alex Murdaugh was arraigned Wednesday on federal money laundering and wire fraud charges for indictments saying he stole money from his clients, and although he pleaded not guilty for now, his lawyer said that might change soon. Murdaugh is already serving a life sentence in a South Carolina state prison for killing his wife and son, and the details of the 22 financial charges aren't new. State prosecutors have indicted Murdaugh on similar charges, saying he diverted money meant for clients and a wrongful death settlement for his family's longtime housekeeper who fell at Murdaugh's home to his own bank accounts. Murdaugh's lawyers said in a statement last week the former attorney has been cooperating with federal investigators, and they anticipated the latest charges would be quickly resolved without a trial. A federal guilty plea to the charges that can mean decades in prison would guarantee a long time behind bars for Murdaugh even if his pending appeal of his double murder conviction was successful. Murdaugh took the stand at his murder trial earlier this year to repeatedly deny shooting his 22-year-old son, Paul, and 52-year-old wife, Maggie, at their home. Prosecutors said he decided to kill them because his millions of dollars of theft was about to be discovered, and he was hoping their deaths would buy him sympathy and time to figure out a cover-up. Murdaugh, who turned 55 in a state prison cell in protective custody Saturday, also faces around 100 other state charges, including stealing from clients and his family's law firm, insurance fraud and tax evasion. Prosecutors, Murdaugh's attorneys and state Judge Clifton Newman, who presided over the murder trial, are trying to find court time to try at least some of those charges before Newman has to retire because of his age at the end of 2023. In federal court, Murdaugh faces 14 counts of money laundering, five counts of wire fraud, one count of bank fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. His longtime friend Cory Fleming an old college roommate and godfather to one of his sons pleaded guilty last week to conspiracy to commit wire fraud for his part in helping Murdaugh steal more than $4 million in wrongful-death settlements with insurers meant for the family of his longtime housekeeper Gloria Satterfield. The other allegations prosecutors detail in Murdaugh's federal indictments already have been revealed in state legal papers. It said Murdaugh and a banker friend, Russell Laffitte, worked together to take settlement money out of client's accounts, prosecutors said. Laffitte was convicted in November of six wire and bank fraud charges. Other federal indictments give detailed allegations of how Murdaugh created a bank account that had a similar name to a legitimate company that handled settlements to steal money from clients. A group of Walmart employees in Virginia thwarted a kidnapping when they confronted a woman headed out the door with someones child, according to the Suffolk Police Department. It happened around 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 30, and the suspect was found minutes later in a nearby parking lot, police said in a news release. Investigators did not report if the boy suffered injuries during the ordeal. The preliminary investigation revealed the victim, a juvenile male age 4, and his mother were in the self-checkout lane when an unknown woman walked up, took the child out of the cart, and attempted to walk out of the store, police said. Several store employees stopped the women who then put the child down and the child ran to his mother. The female then exited the store and ran through the parking lot. The suspect, 35-year-old Keeta Nicole Neville, was arrested at 9:14 a.m. in the parking lot of an Applebees, police said. The restaurant is just across the street from the Walmart. Investigators have not released a motive in the case. Neville, who lives in nearby Norfolk, faces charges including kidnapping/abducting by force, four counts of assault on a law enforcement officer and one count of simple assault and battery, jail records show. She was being held without bond. Screaming woman and child pinned in burning car rescued by trooper, NC officials say Teens take womans idling car and her 9-month-old baby for joyride, NC cops say Two juveniles took car with 4-year-old inside, then crashed it during chase, CMPD says Drones attacked two Russian oil refineries located east of the country's biggest oil export terminals at Novorossiisk Wednesday. According to Russian officials, the drones did not damage the refinery in Ilsky but have set alight to a second plant at Afipsky in Krasnodar oblast. Several videos from different angles were circulated online about what was believed to be the fire caused by the drone attack in Afipsky, which was quickly extinguished. However, the veracity of the footage could not be independently identified. Novorossiisk is one of Russia's two oil terminals, the other one being the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC). Together, the country is able to bring about 1.5% of global oil to the world market. No one has claimed responsibility for launching the drones, but Russia accuses Ukraine of increasing its attacks on targets inside its country, including the attack on Moscow Tuesday. Ukraine, on the other hand, denied its involvement in the drone strikes inside Russia. The War of Drones In a previous interview with Newsweek, Ukrainian interior ministry advisor Anton Gerashchenko said drones were the super weapons the country has at its disposal. "This war is a war of drones," he said. The use of drones by both Russia and Ukraine has become frequent in the past few weeks. The series of attacks started with a lone drone's attack attempt on the Kremlin in Moscow. While Russian president Vladimir Putin said the capital's air defenses worked "properly," Wagner Group head Yevgeny Prigozhin accused Russian generals of allowing drones to attack Moscow. "What should ordinary people do when drones with explosives crash into their windows?" Prigozhin said in a post on Telegram. The Wagner boss went on to say he had warned the Russian Ministry of Defense about the possibility of drone attacks, "but no one wants to listen." @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. BEIJING (AP) China's commerce minister met Tesla Ltd. CEO Elon Musk on Wednesday and promised to support the development of foreign companies, the ministry said. Musk earlier met with China's ministers of industry and foreign affairs. He joined a series of CEOs from global companies, including Apple Inc., who have met with Cabinet officials or Premier Li Qiang, the top economic official, this year following the end of anti-virus controls that blocked most travel into China. The ruling Communist Party is trying to revive investor interest in Chinas slowing economy and reassure companies that have been rattled by anti-monopoly and data-security crackdowns, raids on consulting firms, tension with Washington and pressure to align their plans with official development goals. The commerce minister, Wang Wentao, said Beijing will support long-term, stable development of foreign-invested enterprises in China," according to a ministry statement. Musk praised the potential of China's development and expressed willingness to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, the statement said. The United States and China should strengthen economic and trade dialogue and cooperation under the guidance of principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, Wang was cited as saying. Earlier, Musk met with the industry minister, Jin Zhuanglong, and exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent networked vehicles, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said on its website. China accounts for half of global electric vehicle sales and is the site of Teslas first factory outside the United States. Li, the premier, delivered a similar message of reassurance in meetings in March with CEOs Tim Cook of Apple, Albert Bourla of Pfizer, Jakob Stausholm of Rio Tinto and Toshiaki Higashihara of Hitachi. Tesla opened the first wholly foreign-owned auto factory in China in 2019 after Beijing eased ownership restrictions to increase competition and speed up industry development. Tesla didnt respond to requests by email for information about Musks visit to China. Musk also is the majority owner of social media platform Twitter, access to which is blocked in China by the ruling party's internet filters. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis made his debut as a presidential candidate in Iowa on Tuesday, rallying supporters outside of Des Moines as he looks to make up critical ground in the race for the GOPs 2024 nomination. His speech at a church in suburban Clive, Iowa played out as a showcase of the issues that helped slingshot him to national prominence in recent years. He railed against pandemic-era lockdowns and restrictions, derided so-called woke ideology in schools and cast himself as a bulwark against the Biden administration and a vast, liberal federal bureaucracy. Restoring sanity means we cant have every major institution in our country going on ideological joyrides, he said to cheers. We have to be guided by reality, by facts and by our enduring principles. No American should have to compete in the woke olympics just to get a job or just to get into school. We also must return normalcy to our communities. We are a sovereign country and our borders must be respected. The Tuesday evening speech kicked off a four-day, three-state tour for DeSantis, who formally announced his presidential candidacy last week in a glitch-marred audio livestream on Twitter that drew derision from across the political spectrum. By beginning his inaugural swing in Iowa, DeSantis is hoping to jolt his campaign and find an opening in the crucial first-in-the-nation caucus state as he looks to dethrone former President Donald Trump at the helm of the modern GOP. Early polling shows DeSantis running well behind Trump. But his opening pitch in Iowa on Tuesday underscored how DeSantis plans on taking on the former president. He opened his remarks by dubbing Florida the Iowa of the southeast, and leaned heavily into the culture wars, going after everything from diversity, equity and inclusion programs in schools and businesses to what he has described as wokeness in the U.S. military. DeSantis also touted a six-week abortion ban in Florida that he signed into law last month, seeking to bolster his credentials among the culturally conservative Iowa Republican voters who play a pivotal role in the presidential caucuses. He cast himself as the kind of politician who could get such policy priorities across the finish line in Washington. In Florida we didnt lead with merely words, he said. We followed up our words with deeds. And we have produced a record of accomplishment that we would put up against anyone in this country. DeSantis didnt take any direct swipes at Trump, who has attacked the Florida governor relentlessly in recent months in an effort to weaken his presidential prospects before his campaign ever managed to get off the ground. Still, DeSantis took a few implied jabs at the former president. He recalled during his speech how he made an impromptu stop in Des Moines earlier this month after Trump scrapped a planned rally there due to concerns about severe weather in the area. He also said that he was frustrated on things like the border after hearing politicians talk about securing the border for years, and vowed to complete the border wall that Trump long promised to finish. DeSantis noted that accomplishing such tasks really does take two terms as president. If Trump were to win back the White House in 2024, he could only serve one more term in office. DeSantis is set to make four stops throughout Iowa on Wednesday before traveling to New Hampshire and South Carolina on Thursday and Friday. Hell return to Iowa on Saturday for Sen. Joni Ernsts (R-Iowa) annual Roast and Ride fundraiser. Trump, meanwhile, is slated to arrive in Iowa on Wednesday and attend events in the state on Thursday. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. SALIX, Iowa (AP) Ron DeSantis was making a four-stop blitz through Iowa during his first full day of presidential campaigning on Wednesday, aiming for a personal connection with voters while intensifying his criticism of former President Donald Trump. The Florida governor's first stop was the floor of Port Neal Welding in Salix, a rural town near Sioux City, in the heart of the most Republican-heavy part of the state. Lining the highway outside the welding shop were metal structures including a towering Jesus, a version of the Statue of Liberty and the Minions. DeSantis talked up his efforts to push his state farther to the right. But he often barreled through his 30-minute speech in workmanlike fashion, left few pauses for applause from the audience of a bit more than 100 people, some wearing caps bearing seed company logos. Trying to position himself as the most formidable alternative to Trump in the crowded Republican White House primary field, DeSantis didn't mention the former president by name in Salix. But he said the Bible emphasized the importance of being humble, adding that the country needed leaders who knew how to show humility. The tired dogmas of the past are inadequate for a vibrant future. We have to look forward, DeSantis said. "We cant look backwards. We must have the courage to lead and we must have the strength to win. He later sat with his wife, Casey, among hydraulic lifts and long welding tables arrayed with assorted metal engine parts. The pair took no questions but offered stories of their favorite drive-thru chicken restaurant and their kids including an incident involving permanent marker drawings on the bathroom walls of the governor's mansion. They just seem very down to earth, said Bev Lessman, a 70-year-old retired teacher from Sioux City. After speaking, DeSantis walked through the audience and Lessman wrapped her arms around DeSantis neck and told the governor she could feel what seemed to her to be the governors Christian devotion. I told him we cant make others live it, but I appreciated how he expressed his faith, she said later. He replied, But we can model it, she said. There was a connection, Lessman added. Displaying a personal touch that resonates with voters is vital to succeeding in states like Iowa. That's a departure from Florida and its large, expensive media markets where television advertising is often more important than on-the-ground campaigning given just how much ground there is to cover. DeSantis has subsequent Wednesday appearances scheduled in Council Bluffs, Pella and Cedar Rapids, packing in early events in the state whose caucuses kick off the Republican presidential primary voting. From there, he will head to New Hampshire on Thursday and South Carolina on Friday both also states where face-to-face interactions with voters are important. After months of speculation, DeSantis launched his campaign with a glitch-filled online kickoff last week and held his first official Iowa event Tuesday night before an energetic crowd of roughly 500 gathered inside a suburban Des Moines church. He didn't mention Trump during his remarks, but speaking to reporters afterward, he pushed back against the former president in a way he had not before on the national stage. DeSantis accused Trump of essentially abandoning America First principles on immigration, supporting coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns and generally having moved left on key issues. And DeSantis laughed off any criticism the former president had lobbed his way over his leadership in Florida, particularly on the state's response to COVID-19. Hell, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship," DeSantis said. "Are you kidding me? The governor is opening his campaign looking up at Trump in the polls. He's also for months been dogged by criticism that, while hes comfortable on stage and in official settings, he can seem halting and awkward when interacting with regular Americans. Kate Romano, 60, of Indianola, Iowa, said she was more impressed by DeSantis than she expected during his Tuesday night appearance, calling him energetic and fun to hear. She voted reluctantly for Trump in 2016 and 2020, and shes interested in hearing from other candidates. I liked to hear that hell stand up to Trump, Romano said. Kim Riesberg, 59, said she, too, voted twice for Trump but is not necessarily committed to him this time. DeSantis is a little softer, Riesberg, of Dallas Center, Iowa, said Tuesday night. And more appealing to the masses. Trump and his allies have unleashed a fresh round of anti-DeSantis attacks, sharing new polls finding the former president is the heavy favorite in the GOP race and taking aim at DeSantis' leadership during the pandemic. A pro-Trump super PAC is also running ads on Iowa television accusing DeSantis of wanting to raise taxes, which the governor denies. The feud will have an opportunity to play in public as the week progresses. Trump, who was already scheduled to be in Iowa on Thursday, added stops in the state to his schedule for Wednesday, ensuring he would overlap with DeSantis for a time. Trump will tape a radio appearance in Des Moines before attending a GOP legislative dinner. DeSantis, meanwhile, will be back in Iowa on Saturday for an event for 2024 GOP hopefuls hosted by Sen. Joni Ernst. They will be joined by declared candidates including Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, along with former Vice President Mike Pence, who is expected to launch a campaign soon. All the travel will give DeSantis a lot of unscripted moments with voters and he got a taste of that as he moved through the audience at the end of the Salix event. Some people approached the governor with specific points, as did Mark Choquette, who questioned DeSantis about his argument that it would take two terms for a president to reform the federal bureaucracy. If he dont bust ass and tear up D.C. in the first term, he may not get a second term and then where he be? asked Choquette, a 76-year-old retired U.S. Marine and Vietnam War veteran. Thats one reason I like Trump. He doesnt have to worry about getting reelected." ___ Weissert reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Steve Peoples in Clive, Iowa, contributed to this report. CLIVE, Iowa (Reuters) - Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stepped up his attacks on Republican rival Donald Trump on Tuesday as he kicked off his first campaign swing as a presidential candidate in Iowa. While DeSantis rarely alluded to the former president during remarks at an evening rally, he showed less restraint afterward when taking questions from the media. DeSantis bashed Trump on issues such as immigration, COVID policy and federal spending, suggesting that he had drifted away from conservative principles as president. "Unfortunately, he's decided to move left on some of these issues," DeSantis said. Trump, the front-runner in the Republican race, recently assailed DeSantis' handling of the COVID pandemic, when DeSantis resisted federal mask and vaccine mandates. DeSantis called Trump's criticisms "detached from reality" and argued Republicans would respond by supporting him. "I think he's doing it in a way that the voters are going to side with me," DeSantis said. "Hell," he added, "his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship." Trump has been a Florida resident since leaving office and several of his children live in the state. Florida Governor Ron Desantis kicks off campaign for Republican U.S. presidential nomination in West Des Moines, Iowa Trump has repeatedly denigrated DeSantis' record and has argued that he has the best chance of defeating President Biden in next year's election. "Ron DeSantis is not a serious person who can take on Joe Biden and bring about the Great American Comeback," Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in response to DeSantis' remarks. DeSantis' comments came after his first in-person event of his just-launched campaign. He told a crowd packed inside a church in western Des Moines that the nation was "going in the wrong direction." "We can see it," DeSantis said, "and we can feel it." DeSantis, who launched his campaign in a glitch-plagued virtual forum on Twitter last week, has now turned to old-school politicking, beginning with two days in Iowa and then on to New Hampshire and South Carolina on a tour that will be closely watched to see if the buttoned-down, policy-minded governor can flash interpersonal skills that some critics have said he lacks. A key state for DeSantis Trump will be right behind him. He will hold events in Iowa the day DeSantis stumps in New Hampshire, a sign the battle for the nomination is about to enter a more intense phase. Iowa is a key state for DeSantis. The Iowa caucuses next February will be the first nominating contest in the nation, and the state's sizeable white, evangelical Christian population has sometimes been at odds with Trump. Trump lost the caucuses in 2016 to U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, who was able to attract much of the Christian vote. It was little surprise, then, that DeSantis held his initial Iowa event in the auditorium of an evangelical church. DeSantis told reporters he expected to win a large share of the evangelical vote. "I have a record of standing for what is right, and I'm willing to take arrows for that," he said. Florida Governor Ron Desantis kicks off campaign for Republican U.S. presidential nomination in West Des Moines, Iowa DeSantis was introduced by Iowa's Republican governor, Kim Reynolds, and was joined by his wife, Casey DeSantis. "I have a hunch they're going to be here a lot," Reynolds said. DeSantis will hold four campaign events across the state on Wednesday as he looks to introduce himself to Iowa voters who are notorious for wanting to see candidates close-up before they attend the caucuses for picking party nominees. Todd Jacklin of Johnston, Iowa, 62, was volunteering for the event, but that did not mean he was sold on DeSantis. He was there to listen, he said. "I'm going to keep things open until next February," he said. The nascent DeSantis campaign has been buttressed by a well-funded Super PAC, Never Back Down, which has taken on many of the day-to-day responsibilities of a presidential effort. At the Tuesday rally, workers for the group were asking attendees to support DeSantis in next year's caucuses. Also in attendance were members of Moms for Liberty, a national conservative advocacy group that opposes liberal education polices and whose efforts in Florida have been strongly supported by DeSantis. Brandi Williams had been up for two straight days smoking crack cocaine when she realized she was going into labor. It was a cold Tennessee morning in December 2014, and Williams had to pull herself together to get to a hospital. She borrowed a car from a friend whose excessive alcohol use required him to have a breathalyzer attached to the car's starter. "Here I am in full-blown labor, driving myself and I can feel the baby's head, like, right there," Williams recalls. "And I'm having to blow in this damn machine or the car would shut off." She made it to the hospital in time. As she walked through the doors to give birth to her daughter, Williams made one last preparation before delivery. She tossed her crack pipe into a trash can. Brandi Williams (Courtesy Brandi Williams) Underneath Williams' raw honesty lies a layer of sad humility. "I was ashamed that I was still getting high while pregnant. I was ashamed because I couldn't quit." Treatments for drug addiction during pregnancy are safe for both the mother and the baby, doctors say. Methadone and buprenorphine, for example, can reduce cravings and help users carry a pregnancy full term, without long-lasting effects on the baby. But shame and stigma, the same that Brandi Williams felt, stop many pregnant women from seeking help. A bigger deterrent, however, is the crippling fear that their babies will be taken away by state welfare authorities. Some states, based on their interpretation of a federal law, view substance use during pregnancy as child abuse so heinous that it deserves criminal prosecution. That's why a growing number of experts including maternal/fetal specialists, federal health officials and people who treat addiction are calling for changes to the laws. "We should remove criminalization of women who are pregnant and taking drugs," Dr. Nora Volkow, head of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), said in an interview. "That needs to stop." Substance use disorder "does not diagnose anyone's ability to parent," said Dr. Hendree Jones, executive director of the University of North Carolinas Horizons Program, a drug treatment program. "I have a woman getting ready to deliver, and she is terrified that somehow they're going to find drugs in her system and Child Protective Services is going to be called and her baby's going to be snatched away," Jones said. A study published Wednesday in the Maternal and Child Health Journal that included 26 pregnant women in Massachusetts found that the decision whether to take anti-addiction medicines "was entirely wrapped up in what happened with respect to mandated reporting to Child Protective Services at the time of delivery," said Dr. Davida Schiff, the study author and an addiction medicine specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Women in the study felt "intense anxiety and stress" under the threat that they would be reported to CPS. "This has led to many women either deciding to not start life-saving medication during pregnancy or to wean off of that life-saving medication during pregnancy and really risk poor outcomes for themselves and their babies," Schiff said. The effects are not limited to Massachusetts. "Across the entire country, we're seeing a general trend toward more punitive policies, and those are kind of the policies that consider substance use during pregnancy to be child abuse or neglect," said Laura Faherty, a policy researcher at the RAND Corporation. Calls for change have an urgent timing. The rate of women with opioid-related diagnoses at the time of delivery increased by 131% from 2010 to 2017, according to a 2019 study. Research is ongoing, although addiction experts expect yet another significant rate increase after 2017. And the No. 1 cause of preventable death among pregnant and postpartum women in particular isn't pregnancy-related at all. It's drug overdose, NIDA's Volkow said. "We know that mortality from overdoses is greater in women that are pregnant than counterparts of the same age that are not pregnant," Volkow said. "This is extraordinarily important because it's telling us that there's something that is making these pregnant women more vulnerable." According to a study published last year, the number of pregnant women and new mothers dying of drug overdoses reached a record high in 2020: 11.85 per 100,000, up from 6.56 per 100,000 in 2017. 'Fetal personhood' and substance use In 1974, Congress passed the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, known as CAPTA. It requires states to have a plan in place to address and respond to child abuse and neglect. The law has been revised over time, and now includes a provision that suggests child abuse can include babies born affected by drug withdrawal. It is up to each state to determine how to interpret CAPTA. Twenty-five states and Washington, D.C. consider substance abuse during pregnancy to be child abuse, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive health and policy research group. Those states require health care professionals to report any suspected prenatal drug use to authorities. But doctor-prescribed medications that pregnant users take to counter addiction, such as methadone or suboxone, can show up temporarily in newborns without long-lasting health effects, doctors say. "We know that medications for opioid use disorder decrease risk of overdose deaths. They also improve pregnancy outcomes. It makes it more likely babies" will be born full term, said Dr. Stephen Patrick, a neonatologist and director of the Vanderbilt Center for Child Health Policy in Nashville. Local communities and even individual hospitals may further interpret the law differently, leaving many expectant mothers and their doctors unsure about how to comply, if at all. Indeed, a growing number of experts worry CAPTA and its state interpretations have gone too far when it comes to the definition of "abuse" in utero. "The intention of the law may not have been punitive, but the way it plays out in any particular community or in any particular child welfare office can sometimes feel punitive," said Dr. Marian Jarlenski, associate director of the Center for Innovative Research on Gender Health Equity at the University of Pittsburgh. "This is likely to become much more complicated as states are banning or criminalizing abortion care. We're moving into a 'fetal personhood' situation," Jarlenski said. Others say the criminal focus on substance use during pregnancy is misguided. "What is the problem we're trying to solve?" said Patrick. "I treat far more complications from untreated diabetes in the NICU than I do from opioid use disorder." "Imagine if we approached someone with uncontrolled diabetes and said, 'Listen, if your baby's born weighing 12 pounds because you have uncontrolled diabetes, you may have child welfare involvement,'" Patrick said. "That sounds crazy." Pregnant women left without help Use of both legal and illegal substances has skyrocketed in recent decades, so it should come as no surprise that many women are already drinking alcohol or using drugs, like opioids, when they become pregnant. Yet, resources to help these women who become pregnant can be hard to find. "Addiction specialists can be kind of reluctant or hesitant to treat pregnant people," Dr. Jeannie Kelly, medical director of maternal-fetal transport at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. "It can be a really daunting group of patients to treat because youre worried" about which treatments are safe during pregnancy. "On the flip side, obstetricians traditionally aren't very well trained in addiction care," Kelly said. We're left with a "perfect storm that leaves patients without anyone who feels comfortable taking care of them," she said. A path to sobriety That day in 2014, Brandi Williams knew she would not be able to bring her newborn daughter home to a dangerous environment in which, Williams said, she couldn't even take care of herself. She gave the baby up for adoption, but keeps in touch with the family who has been raising her. The little girl suffered no long-term health consequences. "She is so freaking smart," Williams said proudly. Williams, now age 40, got sober in 2021 with the help of suboxone. She remains on the drug because "it beats the hell out of me sticking a needle in my arm." Williams has a steady job and is pursuing a degree in psychology so she can one day provide substance use counseling to others in need. "If I can come out of something like this, everybody can come out of it," Williams said. "You just gotta want it bad enough." Follow NBC HEALTH on Twitter & Facebook. MOSCOW The Kremlins war is no longer a distant concern for many Russians. For more than 15 months, the fighting has been focused on the battlefields and battered cities of Ukraine, while life continued largely as normal for millions across the border. But Tuesdays drone assault the first on civilian areas of Moscow since the war began brought the reality of the conflict from the front lines to the Russian capital. While President Vladimir Putin and his officials sought to play down the attack, which caused minor damage, some Moscow residents told NBC News it had left them shaken and concerned that more may be on the horizon. Influential pro-war voices also renewed their criticism of the Kremlin, following a wave of incidents that have exposed the countrys defenses and signaled the war was increasingly being waged deep inside Russia. I dont feel safe, said Anatoly, who did not want his last name used. The war has made gauging public opinion in Russia difficult, with many people afraid to speak their minds or reveal their last names, especially to the foreign media, amid a fierce crackdown on dissent and any criticism of what the Kremlin calls its special military operation in Ukraine. Russia Moscow Drone Strike (Kirill Kudryavtsev / AFP - Getty Images) Anatoly, 83, said he was not so sure about the effectiveness of the citys air defenses, despite Putins praise for their work. If they even flew to Red Square, then they will get here all the more, he said, referring to the recent drone attack on the Kremlin itself. Moscow again blamed Kyiv for Tuesdays incident, but Ukraine said it was not directly involved. The Russian Defense Ministry said eight drones were downed over the capital, with some residential buildings damaged and two people suffering minor injuries. Anatoly was speaking on Leninsky Prospekt, a street in a quiet and well-off neighborhood of southwest Moscow that he has called home for 40 years. He had not woken up before to a drone crashing into a neighbors balcony. But there was no sense of outward panic in the area. Children played in a playground and people enjoying the sunny weather stopped to peer at the building, which had a police cordon around it. Residents Marina, 38, and her 8-year-old son, Kolya, who have been living in the neighborhood for nearly a decade, said the incident gave them unpleasant feelings. Everything is just beginning, said Marina, who did not want her last name used out of fear of speaking out. I dont know who can have a sense of security right now. Svetlana, 61, another resident who also feared giving her last name, said she was out for a morning walk with her dog when she saw emergency services arriving and assumed there was a fire. She then learned that a drone had hit one of the buildings in the neighborhood. It was an unpleasant surprise, she said. A terrible nuisance. Tragic, one might say. You wouldnt wish this on anyone, and what will happen next also nobody knows. Russian officials and propagandists largely shrugged off the drone attack, with many of the most outspoken Kremlin hawks refraining from comment on social media for hours, rather than rushing to urge escalation in response. Some, like Margarita Simonyan, the head of the Russian state broadcaster RT, eventually waded in. There is no panic, she said on Telegram, adding that it was business as usual on the streets of central Moscow. But it will happen again, she warned, and the real question is how Moscow authorities will respond if many more drones are launched at the capital. Putin himself said in a brief statement much later Tuesday that the air defense work was satisfactory, and that there was an understanding of how to seal the capitals skies going forward. Drone attack Moscow (Aleksandr Kazakov / Sipa USA via AP) But some of Russias influential military bloggers questioned the nothing-to-see-here narrative from the Kremlin, framing the drone attacks as part of a psychological warfare campaign by Ukraine meant to intimidate Russian civilians one that might be working. If the purpose of the raid was to stress the population, then the very fact of the appearance of Ukrainian drones in the sky over Moscow has already contributed to this, the Telegram military channel Rybar, known for its pro-war position, wrote to its 1.1 million followers shortly after the attacks. The inert reaction of Putin and his officials creates the feeling that the Russian leadership does not understand the full danger of the situation in which the country finds itself, Tatiana Stanovaya, founder and head of the political analysis firm R.Politik and a nonresident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, wrote in her analysis. Putin is more concerned about stoking alarm that might force the Kremlin to respond with limited resources and options, she said, than he is of being undermined by an appearance of weakness. No matter how daring the next Ukrainian attack is, Putin doesnt think it can provoke dissatisfaction with the authorities in Russian society, she added. Despite growing public criticism, some analysts agreed with that calculus and doubted the attack would have a serious impact on the Russian publics support for Putin and the war. The attack caused little damage, was irrelevant for most Russians, and is being finessed by the Russian media as another Ukrainian provocation in the face of Russian restraint, said Christopher Tuck, an expert in conflict and security at Kings College London. Single incidents such as this will not change Russian domestic politics appreciably, he said. What matters more are larger trends, such as the situation on the ground in Ukraine and the level of Russian military casualties. Tatyana Chistikova reported from Moscow, and Yuliya Talmazan from London. SEOUL, South Korea (AP) Former U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Wednesday that he was communicating with authorities in military-run Myanmar as well as members of the armed resistance following a surprise visit to the country last month, and called for more diplomatic pressure on the ruling generals to end the violence. Ban did not specify the nature of those communications and declined to disclose the details of his conversations with military leaders during their April meetings. He was speaking at a Seoul news conference along with other members of The Elders, a group of senior statesmen engaging in peacemaking and human rights initiatives around the world. I am in close contact with all those people to do as much as we can do to help them democratize Myanmar, Ban said. He said he was still communicating with Myanmar authorities, the president of Indonesia who holds the rotating chair of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations and Myanmar's National Unity Government, which is leading an underground civilian administration following the military takeover in 2021 that toppled the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. In his meetings with Myanmars military ruler, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, and other top officials, Ban urged them to take the initiative in resolving the countrys violent political crisis and release political detainees. He also called for the military leaders to implement a peace plan proposed by ASEAN, of which Myanmar is a member, and a separate United Nations resolution to stop the violence between the military and pro-democracy resistance forces. Ban's visit came at the invitation of Myanmars military government. He has remained tight-lipped about what the military leaders said to him during the meetings. The military government has consistently rejected outside calls for negotiations as an infringement on Myanmars sovereignty, and labeled the pro-democracy opposition as terrorists. At the news conference, Ban said he told the military leaders in April that he could never accept their attempts to avoid the argument, but didnt elaborate on their conversations. Some experts expressed skepticism about Bans initiative, citing the lack of progress in previous peacemaking attempts. Nay Phone Latt, spokesperson of the National Unity Government, told The Associated Press following Bans visit that international leaders should know their hands will be stained with blood when they shake hands with the leader of the terrorist army, referring to Bans meeting with Min Aung Hlaing. Ban noted that the military leaders following his meetings released around 2,000 political prisoners, although they didnt include Suu Kyi, who has been imprisoned since 2021. When asked whether he would pursue further visits to Myanmar on behalf of The Elders, including possible meetings or contacts with the opposition NUG, Ban replied: Whatever is necessary. As the U.N. secretary-general, Ban went to Myanmar to press the countrys then-ruling generals to let foreign aid and experts reach survivors of Cyclone Nargis in 2008, which killed an estimated 134,000 people. He urged the military to embrace democracy as well. He also attended a peace conference in Naypyitaw, Myanmar's capital, in 2016 that sought to end decades of armed conflict with ethnic minority groups. The news conference came hours after a failed North Korean attempt to launch a military satellite into orbit triggered evacuation warnings and security jitters in South Korea and Japan. Ban and other members of The Elders the group's chair and former Irish President Mary Robinson, former Mongolian President Elbegdorj Tsakhia and former Columbian President Juan Manuel Santos criticized the launch, which Santos described as an unnecessary provocation. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer is prepared to start the process of holding the FBI in contempt of Congress as early as today if the bureau does not comply with a subpoena related to a possible criminal scheme involving then-Vice President Joe Biden. Comer, R-Ky., has subpoenaed the FBI for a document that allegedly describes a criminal scheme involving Biden and a foreign national and relating to the exchange of money for policy decisions. The document is an FBI-generated FD-1023 form. Comer first subpoenaed the document earlier this month. The FBI did not turn it over and instead explained that it needed to protect the bureau's confidential human source program. After Comer threatened to hold FBI Director Christopher Wray in contempt of Congress if the document was not provided by May 30, Wray scheduled a phone call with Comer for May 31. It is unclear whether the FBI will comply by the end of the day and turn over the FD-1023 form. COMER THREATENS TO HOLD FBI IN CONTEMPT OF CONGRESS IF IT FAILS TO RELEASE KEY BIDEN DOCUMENT Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., is threatening to hold the FBI in contempt if it does not meet a Tuesday deadline to hand over information about the Bidens' business practices. "It shouldnt have taken the threat of holding FBI Director Wray in contempt for him to finally agree to a phone call that Chairman Comer and Senator Grassley requested over a week ago," Comer said. "The FBI must produce the unclassified record by May 30 or the Oversight Committee will initiate contempt of Congress proceedings. The subpoenaed record is already two weeks past due." READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP The document is being sought after a whistleblower approached Comer and Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, alleging that the FBI and the Justice Department were in possession of it, and that it would reveal "a precise description of how the alleged criminal scheme was employed as well as its purpose." Comer attempted to "narrow the breadth of the subpoena" in response to FBI staff criticisms, the committee determined "additional terms based on unclassified legally protected whistleblower disclosures that may be referenced in the FD-1023 form." The terms included "June 30, 2020" and "five million." "These terms relate to the date of the FD-1023 form and its reference to the amount of money the foreign national allegedly paid to receive the desired policy outcome," Comer explained. "Given the large number of FD-1023 forms with the word Biden in June 2020, these terms should assist the FBI in identifying the specific FD-1023 form at issue." "The FBI has continued to tie itself in knots to ignore a legitimate subpoena from Congress, which has a constitutional duty of oversight," Grassley told Fox News Digital. "The Bureaus developed a serious reputation problem through its spate of failures and overreach, and leadership is doing it no favors by attempting to stiff-arm Congress." Grassley said the FBI "knows exactly what document Chairman Comer and I are seeking, and if they know us at all, they know we will get it, one way or another." FBI DOESN'T SHARE DOCUMENT GOP SUBPOENAED ALLEGING 'CRIMINAL SCHEME' INVOLVING BIDEN An FBI-generated FD-1023 form allegedly describes a criminal scheme involving President Biden and a foreign national and relating to the exchange of money for policy decisions. "If FBI leadership truly cares about protecting the agencys reputation, theyd cooperate," Grassley said. "These needless delays only harm the Bureau." House Oversight Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin, D-Md., called the threat of contempt as a "ludicrously overblown response." WHISTLEBLOWER ALLEGES FBI, DOJ HAVE DOCUMENT REVEALING CRIMINAL SCHEME INVOLVING BIDEN, FOREIGN NATIONAL The back-and-forth came after Comer and Grassley notified Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland this month about the "legally protected and highly credible unclassified whistleblower disclosures." Comer and Grassley said that based on "the alleged specificity within the document, it would appear that the DOJ and the FBI have enough information to determine the truth and accuracy of the information contained within it." "The FBIs mission is to protect the American people. Releasing confidential source information could potentially jeopardize investigations and put lives at risk," the FBI said in a statement. "The FBI remains committed to cooperating with Congresss oversight requests on this matter and others as we always have." The White House has maintained that the president never spoke to his son about his business dealings and has continued to say that the president was never involved in them. Officials also say the president has never discussed investigations into members of his family with the Justice Department. Five juvenile suspects were arrested in connection with the assault on three U.S. Marines carried out by a mob of teenagers on a beach in San Clemente, California, over Memorial Day weekend, San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan confirmed to Fox News Digital on Tuesday. The suspects were charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon and remain in custody, Duncan said. San Clementes mayor said investigators have identified at least four more juveniles involved who may be charged with misdemeanor assault and battery. Duncan described the investigation into Friday night's incident as "very efficient and effective." He said investigators do not anticipate any additional arrests, but said that could change. Orange County Sheriff's Department Sgt. Mike Woodroof said on Fox News' "The Story" that anyone, regardless of age, who "kicks another human being in the head to cause damage, internal injury to that magnitude will be arrested for a felony assault deadly weapon." CALIFORNIA TEEN MOB ALLEGEDLY ATTACKS MARINES ON VIDEO Nine juveniles were charged in connection with the assault on three U.S. Marines on a beach in San Clemente, California, over Memorial Day weekend. A video posted on the social media platform Nextdoor shows one person throwing a punch at one of the alleged victims from behind before a large fight breaks out. The injured victim lunges at his attacker. The group of teenagers and young adults was then seen kicking the victims. READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP Two victims were filmed lying on the ground in the fetal position and covering their heads as the mob kicked and punched them. A couple of bystanders intervened in the beating, with one woman standing between the victims and the attackers as she outstretched her arms and yelled, "Stop!" Five suspects were charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon. The confrontation allegedly began when the Marines told the teenagers to stop lighting fireworks on the beach, according to KCAL. In a press release, the sheriff's department said deputies responded to the San Clemente Pier at around 10 p.m. Friday night after being notified that a large group of juveniles had assaulted Marines. Deputies arrived to find two injured Marines and rendered medical aid. The Marines declined transportation to the hospital. ROAMING MOBS OF TEENS CLASH IN SAN FRANCISCO MALL BRAWLS AS BYSTANDERS CAUGHT IN CROSSHAIRS: IM VERY SCARED' The confrontation allegedly began when the teenagers were told to stop lighting fireworks. During the investigation, the sheriff's office discovered a third Marine was also a victim of the attack. According to the press release, the five juveniles in custody, four boys and one girl, were booked into the Orange County Juvenile Hall. The incident remains under investigation. Fox News' Chris Pandolfo and Haley Chi-Sing contributed to this report. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) said Tuesday that shes inclined to support the bipartisan debt ceiling proposal set to hit the House floor Wednesday, but she first wants to secure a commitment from GOP leaders to move several other proposals in the future, including the impeachment of President Biden or a top cabinet official. If you have to eat a shit sandwich, you want to have sides, OK? It makes it much better, Greene told reporters just outside the Capitol office of Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). So what Im looking for is, Im looking for some sides and some desserts. Greene named two sides in particular: A vote on a balanced budget amendment and another on legislation to prevent the hiring of new IRS agents not only in 2024, as the bipartisan debt-limit bill would do but also in the years to follow. President Biden last year signed legislation providing the IRS with $80 billion over a decade to streamline customer service, update technology and hire auditors to go after those who dont pay the taxes they owe. Republicans have attacked the extra funding, arguing falsely that the IRS intends to use it to hire 87,000 new agents to target middle-class workers, particularly Republicans. There were audits and conservative groups were targeted, Greene said. One of the sides I would like to see with this shit sandwich is a way to completely wipe out the 87,000 IRS agents. Then she named her beautiful dessert. Somebody needs to be impeached, Greene said. She singled out Alejandro Mayorkas, the secretary of the Homeland Security Department, as the lowest hanging fruit in the eyes of Republicans for his handling of the migrant crisis at the southern border. The border is a serious issue that matters to everyone all over the country, even the Democrat mayor of New York City, the Democrat mayor in Chicago, and just people everywhere, she said. Lax security at the border has also allowed the flow of illicit drugs from Mexico, Greene continued, which in turn has contributed to the deadly fentanyl crisis across the United States. Three hundred Americans are dying every single day, she said. Mayorkas, and I argue Biden as well President Biden both of them should be impeached for that. Greene said the proposals shes seeking would not be attached to the debt-ceiling bill, but could come later. It doesnt have to happen necessarily today, she said. But it can happen quickly, and Im working on that. Greene emphasized that she remains undecided on Wednesdays debt ceiling vote Im still coming to my decision, she said but she also suggested those Republicans fighting to kill the proposal were playing into the hands of Senate Democratic leaders who would prefer a clean debt ceiling hike without the GOP spending cuts. She predicted Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) with an assist from GOP Sen. Lindsey Graham (S.C.) would attempt to attach the proposal to more funding for the war in Ukraine, which she opposes. I dont want to see that happen, she said. I dont want to see our group responsible for more funding to Ukraine. The comments arrive as McCarthy and his leadership team are racing to shore up GOP support for the debt ceiling proposal they secured Saturday with the White House following tough-fought negotiations that spanned most of the month. The Treasury Department has warned that, without congressional action, the government will default on its obligations June 5 for the first time in the nations history. A group of conservatives has balked at the agreement, saying it doesnt contain nearly the level of spending cuts needed to rein in deficits and the national debt. Some of those conservatives are now floating the notion that theyll try to topple McCarthy from the Speakership for his handling of the negotiations. Greene, however, threw cold water on that idea, praising McCarthy for his work ethic and blasting his conservative detractors for dividing the party. I think some of this talk is maybe for attention, maybe for fundraising, she said. Its not serious, and it would be a horrible decision. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. In pics: mangrove forest in Zhanjiang City, S China's Guangdong Xinhua) 14:41, May 31, 2023 This aerial photo taken on May 24, 2023 shows a mangrove forest on Jinniu Island, Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Deng Hua) This aerial photo taken on May 24, 2023 shows people visiting a mangrove forest on Jinniu Island, Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Deng Hua) People take a rest under the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province, May 25, 2023. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liu Dawei) This aerial photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows a mangrove forest on Jinniu Island, Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Deng Hua) This photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows birds resting in the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This aerial photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows birds flying over the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows birds resting in the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This aerial panorama photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows a mangrove forest at the seaside in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows birds in the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liu Dawei) People visit a mangrove forest on Jinniu Island, Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province, on May 25, 2023. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liu Dawei) This aerial photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows a mangrove forest at the seaside in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) People enjoy themselves in the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province, May 25, 2023. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This aerial photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows birds resting in the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liu Dawei) People enjoy their leisure time on a mangrove walkway near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province, May 25, 2023. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This aerial photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows a mangrove forest on Jinniu Island, Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Russia's former president Dmitry Medvedev said Wednesday that British officials had become "legitimate military targets" due to the UK's support for Ukraine. "The UK acts as Ukraine's ally providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto is leading an undeclared war against Russia," he stated in a tweet. Medvedev, who also is the deputy head of Russia's security council, also called the UK Moscow's "eternal enemy" for its support to Kyiv. His statement came after Russian President Vladimir Putin called Tuesday's drone attack on Moscow a "terrorist" act by Ukraine. Cleverly: Ukraine Has Right to "Project Force" Beyond Its Borders The remark was made after British foreign secretary James Cleverly asserted Ukraine had the right to hit "legitimate military targets" beyond its borders in reference to the Moscow drone attack. In a press conference in Estonia Tuesday, he said Ukraine is obliged to defend itself and "project force" beyond its borders as part of its self-defense in stopping Russian aggression. "Ukraine does have the legitimate right to defend itself," he said. Regarding the NATO summit to be held in Lithuania in July, Cleverly said he and Estonian foreign minister Margus Tsahkna have "agreed" to "bolster support" for Ukraine. He added that both he and Tsahkna long for Sweden to join NATO as a fully-fledged member in the future. "Swedish accession will make us all safer and stronger," he said. Meanwhile, Downing Street stated no British-supplied equipment was used in the recent drone attacks. "Obviously, what we have seen are significant attacks on Kyiv in recent days, including on civilians," said an official representative to British prime minister Rishi Sunak. @ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The head of horse racings oversight authority believes Churchill Downs would accept a recommendation to pause racing if necessary as an emergency summit convenes to examine the deaths of 12 horses over the past month at the home of the Kentucky Derby. Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority CEO Lisa Lazarus noted that while the federally created board doesnt have the authority to close Churchill Downs, it can make that recommendation. Ive had some very multiple long conversations with top-ranked executives at Churchill Downs over the weekend, and they are really committed to doing the right thing, Lazarus said Tuesday during a virtual news conference just ahead of the summit with Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission. My strong view is that if we were to make a recommendation to Churchill Downs to shut down racing, that they would accept that recommendation." Churchill Downs' spring meet is scheduled to resume on Thursday evening. HISA called for the emergency summit in Lexington, Kentucky, on Monday to review information and conduct additional analysis. Veteran track superintendent Dennis Moore will conduct an independent analysis of the tracks racing and training surfaces, and HISA equine safety and welfare director Jennifer Durenberger will provide on-site oversight of the horses. Seven horses died from training or racing injuries at Churchill Downs leading up to the 149th Kentucky Derby on May 6, including two on the undercard. Wild On Ice was the first to be euthanized on April 27 with a leg injury sustained after training. Five have died since then, including 7-year-olds Lost in Limbo and Kimberley Dream over the weekend. Lazarus said the summit would examine factors such as Churchill Downs' track surface, veterinary oversight and misuse of medications with horses. Tuesday's session will focus on veterinary issues with an examination of six months of medical records, she added. As for Churchill Downs' track surface, Lazarus said there was no reason for concern following previous analyses conducted by Mick Peterson, director of the University of Kentucky's racetrack safety program. HISA requested a second opinion from Moore as a second set of eyes to ensure confidence in that decision, Lazarus added. We believe that the situation calls for additional scrutiny on the surface just to make sure that nothings being missed," she said. HISA announced hours after the Derby that it was communicating with the KHRC as it investigated the initial horse deaths that cast a shadow over the marquee race. Lazarus said the urgency to conduct a summit became clearer as the numbers added up and required something more comprehensive. ___ AP sports: https://apnews.com/hub/sports and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports Johnny Depp announced on Instagram Monday that his band, Hollywood Vampires, would be delaying its U.S. tour dates due to a fractured ankle. (Joel C Ryan / Invision / Associated Press) Johnny Depp and his rock band the Hollywood Vampires are postponing three U.S. tour dates. In a Monday letter posted to the actor-musician's Instagram Stories, Depp expressed regret over the situation. My dear friends, I am sorry to say that I have fractured my ankle, which is a drag!!! the 59-year-old wrote in the since-expired missive. It began as a hairline break but somewhere between Cannes and the Royal Albert Hall, it got worse rather than better." The "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "Finding Neverland" star said that under the advisement of multiple medical professionals who "strongly suggested" the actor avoid physical activity of any kind he is unable to travel for the time being. To that end, the guys and I are very sorry to miss you in New Hampshire, Boston and New York but fear not, I promise we will bring an amazing show to all of you in Europe and bring our absolute best to the East Coast later this summer and make it up to those who have paid for those shows!!!" he continued. Again, sincerest apologies. All my love and respect, J.D. x. The Hollywood Vampires, the supergroup that Depp debuted in 2015 with Alice Cooper and Aerosmiths Joe Perry, also confirmed that he "sustained a painful injury to his ankle following his trip to France for the annual Cannes Film Festival earlier this month. He is devastated by this turn of events, but looks forward to resting up so all four Vampires can bring their absolute best to the tour in Europe," the group wrote on social media. The concerts in Boston; Manchester, N.H., and Bethel, N.Y., will be postponed to July 28, 29 and 30, according to the bands post. Depp recently attended the 2023 Cannes Film Festival to promote his French film Jeanne du Barry, which was controversially chosen to open the festival. It marked Depps return to the big screen since the highly publicized defamation trial against his ex-wife Amber Heard made the public privy to alarming details involving their troubled marriage. The film received a seven-minute standing ovation, and although Depp was teary-eyed as he waved and thanked fans following the film's screening, he didn't mince words the next day at an accompanying press conference. Depp told reporters he was "boycotted" and would prefer his return to the industry not be referred to as a comeback. I didnt go anywhere, he said. I live about 45 minutes away from here, in fact. Maybe people stopped calling out of whatever their fear was at the time but I didnt go nowhere ... Comeback is almost like Im going to come out and do a tap dance dance my best and hope you approve. Thats the notion. Its a bizarre mystery. Did I feel boycotted by Hollywood? he responded to one reporter's question. Youd have to not have a pulse to not feel that, of course, when youre asked to resign from a film youre doing ['Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore'] for something that is merely just a bunch of vowels and consonants in the air. Do I feel boycotted now? No, I dont feel boycotted by Hollywood, because I dont think about Hollywood. I dont have much use for Hollywood, do you? Its a strange, funny time when people feel like they cant be themselves; they must fall in line with the person in front of them. If you want to live that life, I wish you the best, Ill see you on the other side. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Kentucky Derby entrant Two Phils works out at at Churchill Downs on May 4 in Louisville, Ky. (Charlie Riedel / Associated Press) Kentucky considers itself the cradle of horse racing in the United States. It has the most important race and the largest breeding facilities but is dealing with an unwelcome crisis the deaths of racing thoroughbreds. So, where does it look for advice? California. Jamie Eads, the newly appointed executive director of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, called her counterpart at the California Horse Racing Board, Scott Chaney, over the weekend after Churchill Downs suffered its 11th and 12th fatalities in the last 30 days. The two spoke Tuesday with the major topic being the post-entry panel that California uses to screen horses that possibly shouldnt be racing. She generally wanted to know about our experiences in 2019, Chaney said. It stemmed from something [equine medical director] Jeff Blea said about how a horse that had the past performances like the one in Kentucky would have been flagged. She wanted to know how the post-entry panel worked and who was on it. On Saturday, Kimberley Dream, a 7-year-old mare, was euthanized after suffering a life-ending injury. She had lost her five previous races by a total of 130 lengths. Blea told The Times that a horse with those past performances would raise significant concerns, [and] raise a red flag. Kentucky does not have a post-entry review panel. The conversation came on the same day Lisa Lazarus, chief executive of the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority, had a call with about 40 media members. HISA is conducting an investigation into the deaths at Churchill Downs, including bringing in Dennis Moore, the long time track superintendent at Santa Anita and Del Mar, to examine the safety of the Kentucky track. Among what he possibly will examine is the equipment used to prepare the track and if it is up to date. Lazarus said that if HISA recommended that the track be shut down, she would expect Churchill Downs to comply. She did not know, however, if HISA has that authority. Chaney was on the first California post-entry panels when he was a steward. We scratched five to eight horses every card, Chaney said. That was the experience [in 2019]. But, through time, horsemen learned criteria and risk factors. We saw the behavior of the licensees start to change. They were no longer entering high-risk horses. Now, its very rare for the panel to scratch a horse or if they have a question they call for a vet to look at the horse. California has reduced fatalities by 55% since 2019. Churchill Downs will resume racing Thursday and continue until July 3. Meanwhile, the national spotlight will switch to Elmont, N.Y., where the Belmont Stakes will be run June 10. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Kentucky State University has named Koffi Akakpo, the president of Bluegrass Community and Technical College in Lexington, as the next president of the university. Akakpo will start as president as early as July 1. The university began a search for the next president last year, but the search was halted when House Bill 250 was passed, ordering the university to stop its search for one year. The university resumed its search in March and announced three finalists for the position in early May. Akakpo is the current president and chief executive officer at Bluegrass Community and Technical College in Lexington. He previously held positions at North Central State College and Central State University, a historically Black university in Ohio. He also previously worked as the department secretary and director of the Department of Natural Resources for the state of Ohio. During his four years at BCTC, the college has added new programs, increased enrollment and seen its graduation rate increase from 24 percent to 35 percent, which includes increases among Black and Hispanic students, according to the news release. My work focuses on championing postsecondary institutions, tackling the uncertainty they face, and securing their current and future prosperity, particularly through bold thinking, transformational problem-solving, and strategic partnership building, Akakpo said in the announcement. The university has been without a permanent president since July 2021, when then-president M. Christopher Brown II resigned amid growing concerns about KSUs financial health and multiple lawsuits accusing college officials, including Brown, of various acts misconduct. Under Dr. Akakpos leadership, the University can advance in many areas, and we are pleased to hand the baton to him at such a critical time in the institutions journey, Tammi Dukes, chair of the schools Board of Regents, said in the news release. We are confident he will bring the vision and execution required to help Kentucky State University continue to advance and succeed in its critical mission of enhancing society and impacting individuals by preparing future generations of engaged citizens and effective leaders. In a statement from BCTC, Akakpo was praised for his students first approach. While the students, faculty, and staff are saddened to see him leave, he is leaving BCTC in a significantly stronger position than when he arrived, the statement read. We of course wish him well and look forward to following his success at Kentucky State University and strengthening our partnership with them. Information will be provided soon on BCTCs search process for a new president. Search process KSU is the only public historically Black university in the state. The three finalists for the position all had experience in higher education leadership and had ties to Kentucky. KSU used search firm Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting to assist with the search. Interim President Ronald Johnsons contract expires in June. He was hired last June on a one-year contract to fill the position while KSU addressed budget concerns. The board of regents have emphasized the need to fill the position of president, and selecting someone who can work to get the university on sound footing in the coming years. When the board announced they would be resuming the search in March, with the goal of selecting a president within three months, then-board chair Gerald Patton said a quick timeline was needed. Presidential searches can often be a semester- or year-long process for universities, involving multiple rounds of interviews, meetings with employees and students and on-campus visits. In order to name a president before Johnsons contract expired, KSU conducted the search on a compressed timeline. We are confident that the foundation laid by this extensive presidential search process involving input and deliberation from a wide range of constituents and stakeholders, including both internal and external campus community members allowed us to choose the best leader for Kentucky State and its future, Dukes said in Tuesdays announcement. KSU faced financial issues, leadership changes KSU has experienced a tumultuous several years, including the multi-million dollar budget deficit, a management improvement plan required by the state and a special examination by the Office of the Auditor of Public Accounts. The special examination of the universitys finances revealed widespread overspending, a lack of financial control, and misuse of credit cards and university funds. It also found poor internal controls and communication, failure to ensure an effective budgeting process and widespread overspending and credit card usage. The report identified more than $1.3 million in credit card transactions without proper documentation, and in one instance, the use of a fund that was meant for faculty, staff and student recognition was used to pay for the rental of the Kentucky Castle for a board retreat. Millions in federal funding for the university is also at risk, according to the report, because of improper internal controls and documentation. A man jumped into the Boise River early Tuesday to avoid police officers but was later arrested after authorities pulled him out of the water. At around 11 a.m., police officers approached a 25-year-old Boise man in Julia Davis Park after receiving a citizen complaint about an individual who seemed impaired and was huffing compressed air, Boise Police Department spokesperson Haley Williams told the Idaho Statesman in an email. When the man saw the officers approaching, he started to run away, and when police tried to stop him, he allegedly battered the officers by striking them with his arms and legs, Williams said. He then jumped into the cold, swift-moving river. Police said the man refused commands to get out of the water, which caused officers and firefighters to get into the water and launch a boat to rescue him. Williams said the man avoided lines that were thrown at him, but eventually took a life jacket. By about 11:35 a.m., authorities were able to get him out of the river before he reached the dam near the Americana Bridge. Sections of the Greenbelt are still closed due to flooding and there is a dangerous river condition warning in effect for the Boise River. The Boise Fire Department doesnt recommend people go into the river as the water conditions could be life-threatening. A kayaker died in the river in May. The man Tuesday was arrested on suspicion of several counts, including battery on a law enforcement officer, which is a felony. Hes being held at the Ada County Jail and will appear before a judge Wednesday, when bond will be set. NEW YORK (AP) Ten months before Donald Trump is scheduled to stand trial in his historic New York City criminal case, Manhattan prosecutors are turning the former presidents words against him in a tug of war over precisely where he will be tried. Trumps lawyers have spent weeks angling to have the hush money case moved to federal court. The Manhattan district attorneys office responded Tuesday that the case should remain in the state court where it originated, citing old Trump tweets that they say undermine his lawyers jurisdictional challenge. Trump, a Republican, pleaded not guilty in state court last month to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to money paid to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, for orchestrating hush money payments during the 2016 campaign to bury allegations of extramarital sexual encounters. Prosecutors allege that Trumps company, the Trump Organization, falsely logged the Cohen payments as being for a legal retainer that didnt exist. Trump, the leading contender for next years Republican presidential nomination, is slated to go on trial in state court March 25, 2024, in the heat of the primaries. Trumps lawyers argue he cant be tried in state court because some of the alleged conduct occurred in 2017 while he was president, including checks he purportedly wrote while sitting in the Oval Office. They argue the case belongs in federal court because it involves important federal questions including alleged violations of federal election law. The DA's office, in its response, pointed to tweets from 2018 in which Trump said he was paying Cohen a monthly retainer and that Cohen was being reimbursed for a $130,000 private agreement the lawyer made with porn actor Stormy Daniels to keep her from speaking about an alleged affair. Trump tweeted that the payments had nothing to do" with his campaign. Prosecutors also cited a statement in which Rudy Giuliani, Trumps personal lawyer at the time, said the Daniels payment was made to resolve a personal and false allegation in order to protect Trumps family. Ultimately it will be Manhattan federal judge Alvin Hellerstein who decides whether to seize control of the case or keep it in state court. likely after the two sides duke it out at a hearing on the issue June 27. Such transfer requests are rarely granted, although Trumps is unprecedented because hes the first ex-president charged with a crime. In the meantime, the case will continue in state court. Matthew Colangelo, a senior counsel to Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg, urged Hellerstein to keep the case as is, arguing in court papers Tuesday that Trump's lawyers had failed to meet a high legal bar. Trumps lawyers argue that he must be tried in federal court because, as commander-in-chief, he was a federal officer. Colangelo contended that Trumps legal team hasn't satisfied any of three grounds for moving the case under that standard and questioned whether it would even apply to Trump. Over the years, he wrote, courts have debated whether the legal definition of federal officer applies to a president or only to other members of the government. Trumps charges pertained to efforts to conceal criminal conduct that largely occurred before his inauguration," Colangelo wrote. That includes alleged violations of New York laws regulating record-keeping at private businesses laws that have no federal equivalent, he added. Trumps alleged criminal conduct had no connection to his official duties and responsibilities" but instead "arose from his unofficial actions relating to his private businesses and pre-election conduct," Colangelo wrote in a 40-page filing. The Trump legal team's inability to connect his conduct to his official duties negates any potential defense he might invoke, such as presidential immunity, Colangelo wrote. In addition to Trump and Giulianis public statements, prosecutors on Tuesday cited secret grand jury material including unspecified exhibits, a court order and a document obtained by a grand jury subpoena. That evidence was filed under seal. Manhattans state and federal courthouses are just a block apart, but where Trumps trial is held could impact how it plays out. The Manhattan DA's office, which conducts most of its business in state court, would still prosecute either way, but Trump could gain an advantage in federal court with a broader and more politically diverse jury pool drawing from the New York City suburbs in addition to heavily Democratic Manhattan. Manhattan federal prosecutors previously investigated and charged only Cohen, who pleaded guilty to violating federal campaign finance law in connection with the hush money payments and is a key witness in the state case against Trump. Trump sued Cohen last month, accusing him of vast reputational harm for talking publicly about the payments. Cohens lawyer, Lanny Davis, accused Trump of using and abusing the judicial system as a form of harassment and intimidation and said the lawsuit wouldn't deter Cohens cooperation with prosecutors. ___ Follow Michael Sisak on Twitter at twitter.com/mikesisak and send confidential tips by visiting https://www.ap.org/tips/. A California appeals court reversed Gov. Gavin Newsom's decision to deny parole for Leslie Van Houten, above, a follower of cult leader Charles Manson who has spent more than 50 years behind bars. (Stan Lim / Los Angeles Daily News) Leslie Van Houten, a follower of cult leader Charles Manson who took part in murders on his orders, is entitled to parole after spending more than 50 years behind bars, a California appeals court ruled Tuesday, reversing Gov. Gavin Newsom's decision to deny her release. Van Houten, 73, has been recommended for parole five times since 2016, but all were denied by Newsom or his predecessor, Gov. Jerry Brown. Tuesday's decision by the 2nd District Court of Appeal is the first time a court has overruled a governor's denial of parole to a Manson follower. In 2020, the Board of Parole Hearings recommended Van Houten for parole, saying she did not "pose an unreasonable risk to public safety" and showed remorse for her crimes. Newsom rejected her latest parole recommendation in 2022 and said Van Houten would pose an "unreasonable danger" if released. Newsom wrote in his denial that there were inconsistencies between Van Houten's recent statements and those she made during the killings in the summer of 1969, indicating gaps in Ms. Van Houtens insight or candor, or both." Judges for the appellate court in Los Angeles wrote that Newsom's rejection "fails to account for the decades of therapy, self-help programming and reflection Van Houten has undergone in the past 50 years." Newsom has a 10-day window, which begins in 30 days, in which he could ask Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta to petition the California Supreme Court to reverse the decision. One of Van Houten's attorneys, Rich Pfeiffer, said he expected Newsom to appeal the decision to the state Supreme Court, and to request a stay of her release on parole pending the court's review of the decision. He also said that although Van Houten could be released as soon as Wednesday, it usually takes about five days to release an inmate pursuant to normal procedures. The governor, I dont blame him because hes been put in a really bad spot, Pfeiffer said. He was given power to reverse or grant parole. Theres a lot of people [who] dont even know facts of the case that well and they want Leslie to stay in for the rest of her life. He could lose a lot of votes over that. A spokesperson for the governor's office did not have information about whether Newsom would petition the decision to the Supreme Court and had no comment or statement on Tuesday's ruling. The attorney general's office referred all requests for comment to the governor's office. Van Houten is serving a life sentence for helping Manson and members of the Manson "family" kill Los Angeles grocer Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary, in August 1969. Van Houten, who was 19 at the time, and the others fatally stabbed the LaBiancas and smeared their blood on the walls of the couple's Los Feliz home. During the murders, Van Houten put a pillowcase over Rosemary LaBianca's head while Charles "Tex" Watson, another member of the Manson family, stabbed Leno LaBianca. Patricia Krenwinkel and Watson then stabbed Rosemary. Although Van Houten suspected that Rosemary was already dead, she said she "didn't know for sure" and stabbed her 14 to 16 times with a knife. The day before, four members of the Manson family had driven to the Benedict Canyon home of actress Sharon Tate and her husband, film director Roman Polanski. While Polanski was away on a film shoot, the four killed a pregnant Tate and her friends Jay Sebring; coffee heiress Abigail Folger; Folger's boyfriend, Voytek Frykowski; and Steven Parent. The Tate-LaBianca murders drew international intention and came to symbolize Los Angeles during the late 1960s. Manson and his followers were sentenced to death in 1971, but those sentences were commuted to life in prison after capital punishment was ruled unconstitutional in 1972. Van Houten's case was overturned on appeal; she was later convicted of murder and conspiracy to commit murder, and sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. Pfeiffer, Van Houten's attorney, said he didn't expect the ruling to be overturned by the Supreme Court because Van Houten has the "best prison record out of anyone in the state of California." According to the judges' ruling, Van Houten earned her master's degree in humanities while incarcerated and worked as a tutor. She also participated in various self-help and mental health programs, was the chairperson of the Inmate Advisory Council, and the facilitator in the Victim Offender Education Group and the Actors' Gang Prison Project. She had a single disciplinary write-up in 1981 for "verbally communicating with women" but has since had a spotless record. Van Houten grew up in Southern California; her parents divorced when she was 14, and she began using drugs, including marijuana, benzedrine and LSD. She became pregnant at 17 and had an abortion. She lived with her mother until she graduated from high school and lived with her father and stepmother while she was attending Sawyer College and earning her legal secretary certificate. Van Houten started living at Spahn Ranch in Chatsworth, the location of a commune created by Manson, after hearing about it during her travels along the California coast. Van Houten initially described the commune as idyllic" but said it also had a "sinister side," with Manson espousing beliefs in a "race war" between Black and white people. Manson believed that the "family" had to start killing white people in order to start the race war. In 2017, Manson died of natural causes while serving a life sentence. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. NEW YORK (AP) Former Vice President Mike Pence will officially launch his widely expected campaign for the Republican nomination for president in Iowa next week, adding another candidate to the growing GOP field and putting him in direct competition with his former boss. Pence will hold a kickoff event in Des Moines on June 7, the date of his 64th birthday, according to two people familiar with his plans who spoke on condition of anonymity to share details ahead of the official announcement. He is also expected to release a video message as part of the launch. His team sees early-voting Iowa as critical to his potential path to victory and advisers say he plans to campaign aggressively for the conservative, evangelical Christian voters who make up a substantial portion of the state's Republican electorate. Pence is an avowed social conservative and is staunchly opposed to abortion rights, favoring a national ban. The campaign is expected to lean heavily on town halls and retail stops aimed at showcasing Pence's personality as he tries to emerge from former President Donald Trump's shadow. Pence, who served in Congress and as Indiana's governor before he was tapped as Trump's running mate in 2016, had been an exceedingly loyal vice president until he broke with Trump over the 2020 election. Trump, desperate to overturn his loss and remain in power, had tried to convince Pence and his supporters that Pence could somehow reject voters' will as he presided over the ceremonial counting of the Electoral College votes on Jan. 6, 2021, even though the vice president has no such power. As the count was underway, a violent mob of Trump's supporters stormed the building, smashing through windows, assailing police and sending Pence, his family and his staff racing for cover as members of the mob chanted, Hang Mike Pence! Pence has said Trump's reckless words" endangered his family and everyone else who was at the Capitol that day. He has said "history will hold Donald Trump accountable. For four years, we had a close working relationship. It did not end well, Pence wrote in his book, So Help Me God. Pence has spent the 2 1/2 years since then strategically distancing himself from Trump as he has laid the groundwork for the campaign. While he consistently praises the record of the Trump-Pence administration," he has also stressed differences between the two men, on both policy and style. He has called on his party to move on from Trumps election grievances and warned against the growing tide of populism in the Republican Party. He admonished Putin apologists unwilling to stand up to the Russian leader over his assault on Ukraine, distinguishing himself from Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is running a distant second to Trump in the polls. He has also argued in favor of changes to programs like Social Security and Medicare which both Trump and DeSantis have vowed not to touch and criticized DeSantis for his escalating feud with Disney. Pence also testified last month before a federal grand jury investigating efforts by Trump and his allies to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Pence has spent months visiting early voting states, delivering policy speeches, speaking at churches and courting donors. The week will be a busy one for GOP announcements. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is planning to launch his campaign Tuesday evening at a town hall event in New Hampshire and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum will announce his own bid on June 7 in Fargo. CAIRO (AP) Sudans military suspended its participation in talks with a paramilitary force it's been battling for weeks for control of the northeastern African country, a military spokesman said Wednesday. The development was a blow to the United States and Saudi Arabia, who have been mediating between the two sides. The conflict has plunged Sudan into chaos. Brig. Nabil Abdalla, a spokesperson for the Sudanese armed forces, told The Associated Press that the move is a protest against the Rapid Support Forces repeated violations of the humanitarian cease-fire, including their continued occupation of hospitals and other civilian infrastructure in the capital, Khartoum. Sudan descended into chaos after fighting erupted in mid-April between the military, led by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo. The fighting has killed at least 866 civilians and wounded thousands more, according to the Sudanese Doctors Syndicate, which tracks civilian casualties. The toll could be much higher, the medical group had previously said. Abdalla, the spokesperson, said the military wants to ensure that the terms of a U.S.-Saudi-brokered truce be fully implemented before discussing further steps. He did not elaborate. On May 21, both sides signed a cease-fire agreement allowing for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and the restoration of essential services destroyed in the clashes. They also agreed to stop the looting of residential properties and humanitarian aid, as well as the taking over of civilian infrastructure such as hospitals and power plants. There was no immediate comment from Saudi Arabia or the United States. So far, there have been seven declared cease-fires, all of which have been violated to some extent. Responding to the military's move, the RSF said it unconditionally backs the Saudi-U.S. initiative. Two other senior military officials said the army sent a letter to the Saudi and American mediators detailing what they called the RSF violations. They said the military delegation was still in the venue of the talks in the Saudi coastal city of Jeddah. One of the officials said the decision was prompted by the mediators' efforts to move to the next stage of negotiations without fully implementing the terms of the humanitarian cease-fire. That stage includes a long-term cease-fire and engaging in negotiations to settle the disputes between the two sides, he said. Both senior officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief media. For only the fifth time since he took office in January 2017, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday asked to brief the Security Council behind closed doors on Sudan, a sign of his increasing concern about the fighting and the U.N.s operations in the country. Guterres briefing followed Burhan's demand in a letter to the secretary-general last Friday that the U.N. special envoy to Sudan, Volker Perthes, be removed, saying his approach in pre-war talks between the generals helped inflame the conflict and accusing him of being partisan. The U.N. chief was shocked by the letter. In brief remarks to reporters after the closed meeting, Guterres said he reaffirmed to the council my full confidence in Volker Perthes and told the 15 council members it's up to them to decide whether to continue the U.N. political mission in Sudan, which Perthes leads, or whether its time to end it. The political mission, known as UNITAMS, was established by the council on June 3, 2020, to provide support to Sudan during its political transition to democratic rule. An October 2021 military coup upended Sudans democratic transition after a popular uprising forced the military to remove autocratic President Omar al-Bashir in April 2019. UNITAMS mandate was extended twice and expires on Saturday, and the council needs to decide on its future this week. The United States, United Kingdom and many other countries voiced support for Perthes at Wednesdays meeting. But when Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia was asked whether he supports the U.N. envoy he replied, we support UNITAMS," adding that perhaps the situation in Sudan needs to be stabilized before the council decides how the U.N. presence can be effective. On Tuesday, the military released footage that showed Burhan inspecting troops. The army chief warned that the military would resort to full lethal force if the RSF doesnt respond to the voice of reason. The militarys aircrafts were also seen flying over the capital. Residents, meanwhile, reported clashes late Tuesday in parts of Khartoum and its neighboring city of Omdurman. Both sides traded blame for violating the cease-fire. The militarys move came two days after the sides agreed to extend the shaky cease-fire for five more days, after Washington and Riyadh signaled impatience with persistent truce violations. In a joint statement Sunday, the U.S. and Saudi Arabia called out both warring sides for specific breaches of a weeklong truce rather than issue another general appeal to respect agreements. The statement said the military continued to carry out airstrikes, while the RSF was still occupying peoples homes and seizing properties. Fuel, money, aid supplies and vehicles belonging to a humanitarian convoy were stolen, with theft occurring both in areas controlled by the military and by the RSF, it added. The fighting has caused widespread destruction in residential areas in Khartoum and its adjacent cities of Omdurman and Bahri. Residents reported storming and looting of their homes, mostly by the RSF. Many posted photos and videos of their looted homes on social media, condemning the pillaging. The conflict has also turned Khartoum and other urban areas into battlefields, forcing more than 1.65 million people to flee their homes to safer areas inside Sudan or cross into neighboring countries, according to U.N. figures released Wednesday. Early on, foreign governments raced to evacuate their diplomats and nationals as thousands of foreign residents scrambled to get out of the country. According to the U.N.s International Organization for Migration, around 425,500 people fleeing the conflict have crossed into neighboring countries. Egypt is hosting the largest number of refugees with more than 175,500, followed by Chad with around 114,700 and South Sudan with over 85,200, said the IOM . ___ Associated Press writer Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations contributed. By Finian Cunningham May 30, 2023: Information Clearing House -- " SCF " -- Its no coincidence that U.S. President Joe Biden made a sharp U-turn to send F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine on the same weekend that the NATO-backed Kiev regime just lost the strategic battle for Artyomovsk (Bakhmut). Recall that Biden had emphatically said no to supplying the American warplane to Ukraine partly out of concern to not antagonize Russia. The battle for the transport hub city in the Donbass region had been raging for eight months. Some commentators have compared the pivotal fight for Artyomovsk a meat grinder to Stalingrad in World War Two which largely determined the final victory of the Soviet Red Army over Nazi Germany. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Russian forces claimed to have finally taken full control of Artyomovsk on May 20, despite Kiev denials and a reluctance in the Western media to admit reality. Indeed, the relentless Western narrative of defiant Ukraine sticking it to the Ruskies is also a casualty here, lying bloodied on a stretcher, as is the supposed entire authority of this same media (aka Western propaganda service.) This major defeat for the Kiev regime at the weekend completely upends Washington and NATOs presumed prowess. The Biden administration has bankrolled President Vladimir Zelenskys forces with $38 billion in military aid over the past 15 months. Other NATO members, Britain, Germany, France and Poland have likewise pumped Ukraine with all sorts of advanced weaponry. The defeat of Zelenskys forces at Artyomovsk is as much a defeat of the US-led NATO alliance. That embarrassing blow would explain Bidens about-turn on now giving the go-ahead for F-16 fighter jets. The announcement is aimed at shifting the news headlines from a crucial military defeat. On one hand, the prospect of the American warplane flying over Ukraine sounds like an ominous intervention threatening Russia. The F-16 is the workhorse of the US Air Force having seen combat action in dozens of countries backing up American ground forces. It is nuclear-capable and has a maximum strike range of 800 kilometers. That is roughly the distance from Kiev to Moscow. Potentially, the U.S. jets could launch air strikes on the Russian capital. President Biden, in making his announcement, said that he was assured by former comedian Zelensky that the F-16s would not strike the territory of the Russian Federation. Such an assurance is worthless, as countless sabotage, drone attacks and assassination attempts by Kiev agents in Russia have shown. Also, Team Biden has already made it known that they dont consider Crimea to be Russian territory which would therefore not rule out F-16s making air raids on the Black Sea peninsula, yet Moscow is adamant that Crimea is an integral part of Russia. In any case, on the other hand, the F-16 breakthrough move can be seen as an empty gesture that wont alter the outcome of the war in Russias favor. For a start, Washington is saying that its fighter jets are not going to be supplied from the U.S. inventories directly but rather will be re-exported from other NATO countries. So far, NATO members Poland, Italy and Germany have ruled out any supply of their American-made jets. No doubt, the European allies have balked at the provocation of such a move toward Moscow. Uncle Sams slobbering bulldog, Britain, is always game for provocation, but the Brits do not have F-16s. Another factor is the logistics and training. It would take at least six months for Ukrainian pilots to attain competence in combat performance. Ukraines pilots are trained up on Soviet-era MiG jets and most of them have been shot down by the Russians. It will also take months for F-16 mechanics and ground crew to be established, which would make American personnel targets. The Americans, British and other NATO states are offering F-16 training to Ukraine. But by the time, these jets are able to take off for combat sorties it will be towards the end of this year. That implies another delay in the already much-delayed and hyped Ukrainian counter-offensive. Russias long-range air defense systems are reckoned to be the best in the world, exceeding the American Patriot system which was put out of action by Russian hypersonic missiles last week. The Russian air defense systems will give the F-16s a daunting challenge. The American warplane has appeared to operate successfully in various countries against non-state militant groups who have had negligible air defenses. In these theaters, the F-16s have been able to dominate the skies with impunity. Not so in Ukraine. Russias multilayered air defense systems are a different matter. The S-400 ground-to-air missiles have a deadly range of 400 kilometers. Several locations along Russias western border can cover a distance to Kiev. That means the F-16s can be blown out of the sky long before they get within strike range of Russia. It also means that the warplanes could be targeted for destruction even before they get off the ground. Bidens F-16 bravado is a flight of fancy. Its all about creating a commotion from ostensible muscle flexing. But its all so absurdly futile. Washington cant even pay for its shambolic debt-ridden government, which in turn is throwing F-16s and missiles around like confetti. Militarily, the Russians have got this covered, just like they have had with every other supposed advanced weaponry that the tech-fetish Western militarists have pumped into Ukraine to prop up their pet Nazi regime in Kiev. If Biden and his hubristic Western minions had any sense, never mind morals, they would call off the whole proxy war in Ukraine, knowing that the war is un-winnable and is potentially liable to spiral out of control into an Earth-ending nuclear conflagration. But then, what do you expect from people who pat themselves on the back at a G7 summit in Hiroshima while obscenely declaring more weapons for Ukraine? No, these blind, self-righteous, arrogant imperialists dont know when to stop digging a hole for themselves and, despicably, for the rest of us. The Western regimes and their lackey media have invested so much of their narcissistic, fraudulent, and lying images in trying to beat Russia, they dont know how to capitulate. But capitulate they will have to, eventually. Mr Biden is acting tough and he is once more recklessly escalating the war with Russia with his latest move on sending F-16s. But its a desperate throw of the dice by a loser who is going to be seen as an even bigger loser when the chips are finally down. A drone attack that targeted Moscow on Tuesday exposed glaring breaches in its air defenses and underlined the capital's vulnerability as more Russian soil comes under fire amid expectations of a Ukrainian counteroffensive. The attack, which lightly damaged three apartment buildings, angered Russia's hawks, who scathingly criticized President Vladimir Putin and the military brass for failing to protect the heart of Kremlin power more than 500 kilometers (310 miles) from the front line. Five of the eight drones that took part in the raid were shot down, the Defense Ministry said, while three others were jammed and forced to veer off course. Some Russian media and bloggers alleged a larger number of drones were involved, but those claims couldn't be verified. The attack followed a May 3 drone strike on the Kremlin that lightly damaged the roof of the palace that includes one of Putins official residences. Other drones have crashed near Moscow in what Russian authorities described as botched Ukrainian attempts to attack the city and infrastructure facilities in the suburbs. Last week, the Russian border region of Belgorod was the target of one of the most serious cross-border raids since the war began, with two far-right pro-Ukrainian paramilitary groups claiming responsibility. Officials in the southern Russian city of Krasnodar near annexed Crimea said two drones struck there Friday, damaging residential buildings. The attacks also drew calls for bolstering Russia's borders. Ukrainian authorities rejoiced over Tuesday's drone attack but customarily avoided a claim of responsibility, a response similar to what they said after previous attacks on Russian territory. In a sarcastic tweet, Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said that even artificial intelligence is already smarter and more far-sighted than the Russian military and political leadership. The Russian military pummeled the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and other cities with cruise missiles and exploding drones for the past three nights, a significant spike in such attacks that have been regularly launched since October. The Ukrainian military said it shot down most of the missiles and remained coy about reporting damage from the strikes. Putin cast the attack on Moscow as a Ukrainian attempt to intimidate its residents. He said Moscow's air defenses worked as expected, but admitted that protecting a huge city is a daunting task. It's clear what needs to be done to beef up air defenses, and we will do it, he added. Military watchers said the drones used in the attack were relatively crude and cheap but could have a range of up to 1,000 kilometers (over 620 miles). They predicted more could follow. Some of the drones seen flying toward Moscow were the Ukrainian-made UJ-22s, capable of carrying explosives; others spotted in the skies near Moscow were similarly small vehicles. Mark Cancian, a senior adviser with the Center for Strategic and International Studies International Security Program, noted that part of the reason why drones could make it all the way to Moscow undetected was because Russian air defenses are mostly focused on fending off attacks by more sophisticated weapons. They are oriented on missiles, ballistic missiles, regional missiles, aircraft, bombers, but not short- range drones, you know, which might be flying very low over the ground, Cancian told The Associated Press. The Russian air defense was just not designed to do this. The Russian military will likely move some of its air defense assets away from the front line to help protect Moscow, Cancian said, a move that would weaken Russian troops in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive. Thats good for the Ukrainians in the sense that theyre pulling these systems away from other areas where they could be used maybe from front-line units, he said. The Kremlin's muted response to the attack irked some hawkish commentators and military bloggers in Moscow, who had criticized the Russian leadership for failing to mount a stronger response. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the maverick millionaire head of the Wagner private military contractor that plays a key role on the battlefield in Ukraine, scolded the Russian military leadership and denounced them as scum and swine for failing to protect Moscow. You, the Defense Ministry, have done nothing to launch an offensive, Prigozhin said in a statement released by his office. How dare you to allow the drones to reach Moscow? Ramzan Kadyrov, the strongman leader of the Russian province of Chechnya who sent forces from the region to fight in Ukraine, urged the Kremlin to declare martial law nationwide and use all its resources in Ukraine "to sweep away that terrorist gang." Some Kremlin watchers noted that Putin's calm reaction that contrasted with angry statements from Russian hawks reflects his belief that the public won't be unsettled by the attack. Putin has talked repeatedly about the Russian peoples remarkable patience and tenacity, Tatiana Stanovaya of the Carnegie Endowment said in a commentary. No matter how defiant another Ukrainian attack is, Putin doesnt think that it could provoke public discontent with the government. She noted that while playing down the strikes makes the authorities look embarrassed and helpless, it fits Putins course to drag out the conflict. James Nixey, the director of the Russia and Eurasia program at Chatham House, said Tuesdays attack signaled a growing Ukrainian determination to launch strikes deep inside Russia and predicted more will come. This is not the first and its not the last, Nixey told AP. The Ukrainians are in various respects flexing their muscles, seeing what theyre capable of hitting back. It is one more part of the Ukrainian play to ensure that they are not just playing defense, but they can play some offense as well. Despite the loud calls for revenge, the Russian military cant do much more than what it has been doing since starting the war, Nixey noted. The reality is that Russia does have limits in what it can do. Its got limits on manpower, limits on its finances, limits on its artillery munitions, missiles, drones, everything," he said. Theyre already expending all their efforts, all their monies, all their treasure, all their blood if you like on prosecuting their war in Ukraine. ___ Follow AP coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine-war Rep. Dan Bishop said Tuesday hell consider ousting House Speaker Kevin McCarthy from leadership over a debt ceiling deal McCarthy made Saturday with President Joe Biden. Im just fed up with the lies. Im fed up with the lack of courage the cowardice and I intend in the time that Im here, to see to it that there is someone who is prepared to say what needs to be done, Bishop said. The Charlotte Republicans statements came Tuesday morning during a news conference the far-right House Freedom Caucus called to criticize their Republican colleagues who intend to support a bill Wednesday night to potentially save the U.S. from an economic catastrophe. In January, the U.S. hit its $31.4 trillion debt ceiling a limit regulated by Congress. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told lawmakers over the weekend the U.S. will not be able to pay its debts if they dont raise the debt ceiling by June 5. Economists believe if the U.S. fails to pay its debts it would lead to a possible recession, a stock market crash and the devaluation of the U.S. dollar on a global scale, among other things. Biden, McCarthy and his negotiators have spent the past two weeks trying to find a compromise to raise the debt ceiling and scale back spending in a way that both parties could be comfortable voting through the House and Senate. On Saturday, they emerged with a plan that includes: Extending the debt ceiling through Jan. 1, 2025 Rescinding unspent COVID relief funds Cutting $21.4 billion in funding to the IRS Increasing work requirements to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly called Food Stamps Forcing student loan borrowers to start repayment at the end of August But those plans failed to meet a long list of demands the Freedom Caucus wanted to see in the bill. Bishop is a member of the group. North Carolinas Rep. Patrick McHenry, a Republican, served as a lead negotiator and is the bills sponsor. Bishop told Spectrum News Tuesday hes disappointed in McHenry. Rep. Dan Bishop speaks during a news conference in Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol about why a group of representatives changed their minds and voted for Rep. Kevin McCarthy for House speaker on Friday, Jan. 6, 2023. Bishop said Tuesday morning Republicans in Congress have been defined this year by their unity. He said in January, while the GOP negotiated whether to name McCarthy speaker, the partys members agreed to a set of rules. The debt ceiling agreement with Biden negated that work, he said. Imagine the decision of Kevin McCarthy and his negotiators to forfeit that, Bishop said. Bishop made his rounds on conservative talk shows and on national outlets discussing the compromise bill, including whether someone should call for a motion to vacate the chair, the Congressional phrase for removing McCarthy as House speaker. My view is it is going to have to be done, Bishop told CNN and a handful of other networks. But Bishop said he is first and foremost focused on the vote Wednesday and will then take a look at what his colleagues want to do about McCarthy. He added negotiators should have brought various Republican leaders together to negotiate the deal. If there is any path in salvaging what we began as a unified conference, this bill, if it passes, must pass with less than half of the Republican conference, Bishop said. That is the challenge. At least 20 Republicans have voiced their disapproval of the bill since an agreement was reached Saturday. Some of those Republicans, including Rep. Nancy Mace, of South Carolina, were a surprise, even to Bishop, who helped get the hashtag #nodeal trending Tuesday on Twitter. I think the only possibility that I see right now to turn this thing around is sort of going viral of these members that are maybe unexpectedly are saying hell no, and explaining what this thing actually does, and the fact that it is going to be a defining vote for every Republican, Bishop told Steve Bannons War Room podcast Tuesday morning. He called on Republicans to help ensure the bill did not pass Wednesday evening. Will Democrats vote for debt ceiling bill? Democrats and Republicans foreshadowed the opposition from their colleagues on the far-right. Its unclear how the vast majority of Republicans and Democrats will vote Wednesday night. North Carolinas delegation largely kept their votes private Tuesday. A House rules committee was expected to go late into Tuesday evening. Its coupled with a Republican caucus meeting to help the party determine if McCarthy has the votes he needs to move the bill through the chamber. Rep. Jeff Jackson, a Democrat from Charlotte, took to TikTok over the weekend to explain what Bishops call to action meant for Democrats. Jackson said Republicans had a list of demands going into negotiations and many of those were not met. My bet is that none of them will vote for this which means were several dozen votes short of getting this passed, unless the minority party in the House is willing to provide those votes, Jackson said. The problem with this is that the minority party in the House didnt want to do any of this and now theyre going to be told they have to vote for this or the economy will crash, which is true. Both Jackson and Rep. Alma Adams, also a Charlotte Democrat, did not respond to requests from McClatchy for comment about how they plan to vote Wednesday. A source with knowledge of the situation said some North Carolina Democrats are on the fence about how to vote due to significant cuts to antipoverty programs. Rep. Wiley Nickel, a Democrat from Cary, told McClatchy Tuesday afternoon he plans to vote yes. Nickel said his biggest concern was funding veterans medical care, and that made it into the bill. Im fully supportive of the bill, Nickel said. Its a good compromise. Reps. Don Davis, a Democrat from Snow Hill, Richard Hudson, a Republican living in Southern Pines, Greg Murphy, a Republican from Greenville, and Deborah Ross, a Democrat from Raleigh, support the bill, according to public statements and news reports. Ross announced she has COVID and can not return to D.C. for the vote. MIAMI (AP) Gary Sanchez started at catcher and batted seventh in his first game with the San Diego Padres. A day after he was claimed off waivers from the New York Mets, Sanchez was in the starting lineup against the Miami Marlins on Tuesday night. Wearing No. 99, he went 1 for 4 with an infield hit. You come to a point in time in a season where you try to incrementally upgrade, Padres manager Bob Melvin said. I know hes been through a few teams here recently but does have a history of performing. Sanchez, a two-time All-Star. was designated for assignment last Thursday after playing in three games for the Mets. He went 1 for 6 with three strikeouts and an RBI, looking shaky at times behind the plate. Its been a little difficult but whats happened has been in the past," Sanchez said of his team changes, speaking through a translator. "Now I am looking to the future here in San Diego. Im focused on now. With the disappointing Padres getting meager offensive production at catcher, they hope Sanchez can provide a boost. Austin Nola was batting .131 with three extra-base hits and a paltry .434 OPS in 39 games. His part-time platoon partner, second-stringer Brett Sullivan, was hitting .170 with four extra-base hits and a .482 OPS in 21 games since getting called up from the minors April 16. Luis Campusano has been on the injured list since April 17 and is expected to be sidelined until around the All-Star break following left thumb surgery. Im excited to be able join a clubhouse that has so many superstars," Sanchez said. "There is so much talent on this team. Im just excited to be able to help, contribute. San Diego became the third National League team to take a close look at the 30-year-old Sanchez this season. He spent time in the minors with San Francisco before getting released May 2 and signing a minor league contract a week later with the Mets, who were minus a couple of injured catchers at the time. After hitting well in a short stint at Triple-A Syracuse, he was promoted to the big leagues May 19. When the Mets reinstated catcher Tomas Nido from the injured list last week, Sanchez was cut. Sanchezs best seasons came early in his career with the New York Yankees, where he was runner-up in 2016 AL Rookie of the Year voting and made the AL All-Star team in 2017 and 2019. He hit 20 home runs with a 1.032 OPS in 53 games in 2016, had 33 homers and 90 RBIs with an .876 OPS in 2017, and 34 homers with 77 RBIs and an .841 OPS in 2019. Sanchez was traded to Minnesota before the 2022 season and batted .205 with 16 homers and 61 RBIs in 128 games last year. San Diego began Tuesday with a major league low .220 team batting average. Right now were looking for a little bit more offense, Brenly said. The team is down offensively a little bit. Hopefully he brings that to us as well. ___ AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports SEOUL, South Korea North Korea said Wednesday it failed to launch its first spy satellite into space, in a blow to the nuclear-armed states efforts to strengthen its military capabilities amid growing tensions with its neighbors and the United States. Pyongyang said it would soon try another launch after learning what went wrong to send the rocket plunging into the sea following liftoff. It was an unusually frank acknowledgment of failure by Kim Jong Uns regime, but the attempted launch sparked alarm among its neighbors, with rare emergency alerts and evacuation warnings rattling people in South Korea and Japan. The newly developed Chollima-1 rocket, which was carrying the Malligyong-1 spy satellite, was launched as scheduled at 6:27 a.m. local time (5:27 p.m. ET Tuesday) from the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in the countrys northwest, according to the North Korean state news agency KCNA. It then fell into the sea off the west coast of the Korean Peninsula after losing thrust due to the abnormal starting of the second-stage engine, it said. North Koreas National Aerospace Development Administration said it would investigate what happened and address any shortcomings before it carries out another launch as soon as possible, KCNA said. South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said it was recovering potential wreckage from the vehicle from waters about 124 miles west of the South Korean island of Eocheong. Photos shared by the South Korean National Defense Ministry showed some of the debris that had been retrieved. North Korea failed Wednesday in an effort to launch its first spy satellite into space, state media reported, in a blow to the nuclear-armed states efforts to strengthen its military capabilities amid growing tensions with the United States and its neighbors. (South Korea Defense Ministry / AP) In a trilateral phone call, the U.S., Japan and South Korea strongly condemned the launch, which was based on ballistic missile technology and violated United Nations Security Council resolutions. The three countries are closely monitoring the situation with a high sense of alertness, the Japanese Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement summarizing the call. South Korea and Japan said they were monitoring for possible additional launches. In response to the launch, loudspeakers and text messages urged residents of South Koreas capital, Seoul, to prepare to evacuate, but the countrys Interior and Safety Ministry later said that was an error. Jamie Park, 21, said her family woke up to emergency alerts on their phones, as well as announcements on public loudspeakers. My mom told all of us to get dressed and gather all our important things like passports and laptops so that we can evacuate, she told NBC News. The family spent about 40 minutes watching the news on television until they were sure the danger had passed. I know not everyone took it seriously as it isnt the most uncommon thing, but waking up to it suddenly definitely stirred things up, Park said. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon apologized for the confusion but said the alert had been sent out of an abundance of caution, noting that unlike on previous occasions, North Korea launched toward the south rather than the east. Japan also issued an emergency warning in the southern prefecture of Okinawa, but it was lifted later. North Korea said Tuesday that it planned to launch what it said was a military spy satellite between Wednesday and June 11, in part to monitor what KCNA called the dangerous military acts of the U.S. and its vassal forces. Last week, the U.S. and South Korean militaries held large-scale live-fire exercises near the border with North Korea, the first of five rounds between now and mid-June. North Korea views such exercises as a rehearsal for invasion, which the U.S. and South Korea deny. U.N. sanctions prohibit North Korea from conducting long-range and ballistic missile tests. The country has repeatedly launched such missiles anyway, including last month, when it said it tested a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile for the first time. It has also conducted six nuclear tests and is thought to be preparing for a seventh. Image: (Kyodo News via AP) North Korea and South Korea remain technically in a state of conflict, after the Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice rather than a peace treaty. South Korea, which successfully launched its first commercial-grade satellite last week, is expected to launch its own spy satellite later this year. North Koreas launch failure in no way weakens the justification for increasing trilateral cooperation among South Korea, Japan and the United States, said Leif-Eric Easley, associate professor of international studies at Ewha Womans University in Seoul. But any attempt to toughen U.N. sanctions, he said, is likely to continue to be blocked by China and Russia, both permanent members of the Security Council, who view the sanctions as ineffective. In a statement, the U.S. National Security Council called on North Korea to return to negotiations on denuclearization, which have been stalled since early 2019. The door has not closed on diplomacy but Pyongyang must immediately cease its provocative actions and instead choose engagement, spokesperson Adam Hodge said. He said the U.S. would take all necessary measures to protect the American homeland, as well as its allies South Korea and Japan. Stella Kim reported from Seoul, Arata Yamamoto reported from Tokyo, and Jennifer Jett and Jimin Lee reported from Hong Kong. This photo provided by South Korea's Defense Ministry, shows an object salvaged by South Korea's military that is presumed to be part of the North Korean space-launch vehicle that crashed into sea following a launch failure in waters off Eocheongdo island, South Korea Wednesday, May 31, 2023. (South Korea Defense Ministry via AP) SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Koreas attempt to put the countrys first spy satellite into space failed Wednesday in a setback to leader Kim Jong Uns push to boost his military capabilities as tensions with the United States and South Korea rise. After an unusually quick admission of failure, North Korea vowed to conduct a second launch after learning what went wrong with its rocket liftoff. It suggests Kim remains determined to expand his weapons arsenal and apply more pressure on Washington and Seoul while diplomacy is stalled. South Korea and Japan briefly urged residents to take shelter after the launch. The South Korean military said it was salvaging an object presumed to be part of the crashed North Korean rocket in waters 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of the southwestern island of Eocheongdo. Later, the Defense Ministry released photos of a white, metal cylinder it described as a suspected rocket part. A satellite launch by North Korea is a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban the country from conducting any launch based on ballistic technology. Observers say North Koreas previous satellite launches helped improve its long-range missile technology, though the latest launch likely was more focused on deploying a spy satellite. North Korea has already shown it may have the ability to strike all of the U.S. mainland after years of intercontinental ballistic missile tests, though outside experts say the North has yet to acquire functioning nuclear missiles. The newly developed Chollima-1 rocket, which was carrying the Malligyong-1 satellite, was launched at 6:37 a.m. at the Norths Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in the northwest. The rocket crashed off the Korean Peninsulas western coast after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages, the Norths official Korean Central News Agency said. It said the countrys space agency will investigate defects revealed in the launch, take urgent measures to overcome them and conduct the second launch as soon as possible through various part tests. It is impressive when the North Korean regime actually admits failure, but it would be difficult to hide the fact of a satellite launch failure internationally, and the regime will likely offer a different narrative domestically, Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, said. This outcome also suggests that Pyongyang may stage another provocation soon, in part to make up for todays setback. Seouls military said it boosted military readiness in coordination with the United States, and Japan said it prepared to respond to any emergency. South Koreas military said the North Korean rocket had an abnormal flight before it fell in the water. Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that no object was believed to have reached space. Adam Hodge, a spokesperson at the U.S. National Security Council, said in a statement that Washington strongly condemns the North Korean launch because it used banned ballistic missile technology, raised tensions, and risked destabilizing security in the region and beyond. Hodge said the United States urges North Korea to return to talks and cease its provocative actions. He said the U.S. will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and the defense of South Korea and Japan. The U.N. imposed economic sanctions on North Korea over its previous satellite and ballistic missile launches. But it did not impose new sanctions over recent tests because China and Russia, permanent council members now locked in confrontations with the U.S., have blocked attempts to toughen the sanctions. Matsuno said North Koreas repeated missile launches pose serious threats to the peace and safety of Japan, the region and the international community. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada said Japan plans to keep the missile defense systems deployed to Japanese southern islands and in the southwestern waters in place until June 11, which is the end of North Koreas stated launch window. The Souths capital of Seoul issued alerts over public loudspeakers and cellphone text messages telling residents to prepare for evacuation after the launch was detected. Japan activated a missile warning system for Okinawa prefecture in southwestern Japan, in the rockets suspected path. Both the alerts in Okinawa and Seoul were later lifted. Please evacuate into buildings or underground, the Japanese alert said. KCNA didnt provide details of the rocket and the satellite beyond their names. But experts earlier said North Korea would likely use a liquid-fueled rocket as most of its previously tested long-range rockets and missiles have done. Though it plans a fuller investigation, the Norths National Aerospace Development Administration attributed the failure to the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system applied to (the) carrier rocket and the unstable character of the fuel, according to KCNA. On Tuesday, Ri Pyong Chol, a top North Korean official, said the North needed a space-based reconnaissance system to counter escalating security threats from South Korea and the United States. However, the spy satellite disclosed in the countrys state-run media earlier didnt appear to be sophisticated enough to produce high-resolution imagery. Some outside experts said it may still be able to detect troop movements and large targets such as warships and warplanes. Recent commercial satellite imagery of the Norths Sohae launch center showed active construction indicating North Korea plans to launch more than one satellite. In his Tuesday statement, Ri also said North Korea would test various reconnaissance means" to monitor moves by the United States and its allies in real time. With three to five spy satellites, North Korea could build a space-based surveillance system that allows it to monitor the Korean Peninsula in near real-time, according to Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Koreas Science and Technology Policy Institute. The satellite is one several high-tech weapons systems that Kim has publicly vowed to introduce. Other weapons on his wish list include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. In his visit to the space agency in mid-May, Kim emphasized the strategic significance of a spy satellite in North Koreas standoff with the United States and South Korea. Denuclearization talks with the U.S. have been stalled since early 2019. In the meantime, Kim has focused on expanding his nuclear and missile arsenals in what experts say is an attempt to wrest concessions from Washington and Seoul. Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has conducted more than 100 missile tests, many of them involving nuclear-capable weapons targeting the U.S. mainland, South Korea and Japan. North Korea says its testing activities are self-defense measures meant to respond to expanded military drills between Washington and Seoul that it views as invasion rehearsals. U.S. and South Korean officials say their drills are defensive and theyve bolstered them to cope with growing nuclear threats by North Korea. Easley, the professor, said Kim has likely increased pressure on his scientists and engineers to launch the spy satellite as rival South Korea successfully launched its first commercial-grade satellite aboard its domestically-built Nuri rocket earlier this month. South Korea is expected to launch its first spy satellite later this year, and analysts say Kim likely wants his country to launch its spy satellite before the South to reinforce his military credentials at home. After repeated failures, North Korea successfully put its first satellite into orbit in 2012, and the second one in 2016. The government said both are Earth-observation satellites launched under its peaceful space development program, but many foreign experts believed both were developed to spy on rivals. Observers say there has been no evidence that the satellites have ever transmitted imagery back to North Korea. __ Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report. The gunman accused of murdering 11 in a mass shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in 2018 is now on trial in a federal courtroom in Pittsburgh. On 27 October 2018, Robert Bowers, then 46, entered the synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood armed with three handguns, an AR-15 rifle, and a trove of magazines and ammunition. Inside, he opened fire on congregants in what marks the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history. Eight men and three women aged from 54 to 97 died in the massacre. After numerous delays, the now-50-year-old is finally standing trial for more than 60 federal charges including obstruction of free exercise of religion resulting in death and hate crimes resulting in death. During opening arguments on Tuesday, Mr Bowers attorneys admitted that he was responsible for the massacre but claimed that he acted on an irrational motive and had misguided intent. Prosecutors meanwhile pointed out that, in the months leading up the shooting, the suspect was spewing bigoted and antisemitic vitriol online. If convicted, he could face the death penalty. Key points Robert Bowers on trial for 2018 mass shooting 11 victims killed in Tree of Life synagogue shooting Bowers faces death penalty if convicted Chilling photos showing from Tree of Life synagogue shooting revealed at Robert Bowers murder trial 21:37 , Graig Graziosi Jurors sitting for the trial of accused Tree of Life Synagogue mass shooter Robert Bowers were shown photos of important and in some cases, destroyed objects at the crime scene on the first day of the alleged gunmans trial. Mr Bowers is facing numerous charges for killing 11 people when police say he attacked the synagogue in October 2018. Jurors were shown a few important items and locations from the synagogue to give them context for the rest of the trial. Among them were a Torah rescued from the Holocaust and the tiny bathroom where Rabbi Jeffrey Myers hid during the shooting.READ MORE: Chilling photos revealed during Tree of Life shooting trial Custodian who survived mass shooting testifies, says he just wanted to see his grandson born 21:15 , Graig Graziosi August Siriano, a custodian at Tree of Life Synagogue, surivived on the day Robert Bowers allegedly attacked the place of worship. He told the court Wednesday that he saw Cecil Rosenthal, who was killed in the shooting, lying face down on the floor after gunshots rang out. He said he was scared during the encounter, and told the court he simply wanted to live to see his grandchild be born. ICYMI: Prosecutors rejected Bowers plea deal in exchange for removal of death penalty 20:46 , Graig Graziosi Prosecutors rejected a plea deal from accused mass shooter Robert Bowers defense team. The deal would have removed the death penalty as a possible sentencing in exchange for Mr Bowers guilty plea. Prosecutors said they intend to seek the death penalty if Mr Bowers is found guilty. Barry Werber, who survived the shooting, says the gunman entered the room where he was hiding in the dark 19:44 , Graig Graziosi Another survivor of the mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue has taken the stand. Barry Werber said he was one of the individuals hiding in the dark closet along with Carol Black and Mel Wax. He corroborated Ms Blacks testimony that Mr Wax poked out of the door and was shot. Mr Werber said after Mr Wax was shot, a dark figure stepped over the wounded mans body and peered into the darkness of the room. He said that he and Ms Black were hidden by the darkness in the room, and that the gunman left without discovering them. Dan Leger reveals the extent of the injuries he sustained during the Tree of Life mass shooting 19:12 , Graig Graziosi Dan Leger, who was shot in the chest during the Tree of Life mass shooting in Pittsburgh, testified on Wednesday, and told the jurors the extent of his injuries. Mr Leger said his wounds left him unable to use his rectum, and noted that the wound ruptured his bladder. He said he had to undergo multiple surgeries the day of the shooting to save his life. He again reiterated that the only reason he survived was thanks to the SWAT members who rescued him. Dan Leger recalls being shot in the chest during Tree of Life mass shooting 18:44 , Graig Graziosi Dan Leger was at the Tree of Life synagogue the day of the shooting. After a recess for lunch, Mr Leger described his experiences during the attack. He said he began to hear gunfire and instinctively moved toward the sound hoping to help others injured in the attack. When he reached the lobby, the gunman shot him, hitting him in the chest. Mr Leger collapsed in a stairway. He told the court he is a registered nurse, and realised he was losing the ability to breathe, and felt he was dying. I am a nurse, I have been with hundreds of people that were dying, I felt like I was dying, he said. Thankfully, he was rescued by SWAT officers and survived his injuries. Leger, a registered nurse, said while he lay there he was losing his ability to breathe and was exhibiting end of life symptoms. "I am a nurse, I have been with hundreds of people that were dying, I felt like I was dying." Leger was rescued by SWAT officers. He survived. Ryan Deto (@RyanDeto) May 31, 2023 Carol Blacks testimony reveals moment fellow worshiper was killed in front of her 17:48 , Graig Graziosi Carol Black, 71, a retired clinical audiologist, took the stand to share her experience on the day of the shooting. She recalled Rabbi Jeffrey Myers telling her and others to hide in a small, dark closet as gunfire rang out throughout the building. Another individual who was hiding with her, Mel Wax, 87, was partially in the doorway of the closet and partially in the connecting hallway. After some time, Mr Wax thought the shooting might be over. He peaked around the door, but the shooter was in the sanctuary and fired at him. He fell to floor dying just inches from Ms Blacks feet. Ms Black recalled having to step over his body and a pool of blood to exit the space after the shooting. She said she gave him a silent goodbye as she fled the building. Her brother, Richard Gottfried, was also killed in the shooting. ICYMI: Exhibits from the shooting 15:28 , Graig Graziosi The court released images of many of the subjects we wrote about yesterday: https://t.co/hlBnuc0Fd6 The prayer book with a bullet hole The Torah rescued from the holocaust The bathroom that Rabbi Jeffrey Myers hid in The Torah arc that reads "Tree of Life" in Hebrew pic.twitter.com/1TzRFQER1j Oliver Morrison (@ORMorrison) May 31, 2023 Trial day 2 begins 14:46 , Graig Graziosi Day two of the trial of Robert Bowers has begun in Pittsburgh. Judge Robert Colville noted to attendees that a visitor to the courtroom yesterday was diagnosed with Covid-19. The judge assured those in attendance that the courtroom was cleaned and well ventilated. Bowers faces death penalty if convicted 14:00 , Rachel Sharp If convicted, Robert Bowers could face the death penalty. His attorneys had previously requested a plea deal for him to plead guilty in exchange for the death penalty being taken off the table. Prosecutors rejected the request, paving the way for the case to head to trial. Opening arguments: The defence 13:40 , Rachel Sharp In her opening statement, Robert Bowers attorney Judy Clarke admitted that he went to Tree of Life in 2018 and shot every person he saw and said that there is no making sense of this senseless act. Mr Bowers caused extraordinary harm to many, many people. But Ms Clarke suggested that in Mr Bowers mind, he genuinely believed was trying to help people by targeting Jews. Mr Bowers lawyers have also claimed that he has epilepsy and schizophrenia. Whether Mr Bowers would actually be killed by the state if convicted remains to be seen. President Joe Biden voiced his opposition to the death penalty when he ran for president in 2020, and Attorney General Merrick Garland placed a moritorium on all federal executions two years ago. Opening arguments: The prosecution 13:20 , Rachel Sharp In the prosecutions opening statement, lead prosecutor Soo C. Song told jurors that Robert Bowers was motivated by his hatred of Jewish people. Pointing to social media posts made before the massacre, Ms Song said that the defendant wanted to destroy, to kill and to defile Jews. Jews are a cancer on the planet, Jews are evil creatures, Jews are pedophiles, he had posted online before the attack. That day, he then drove to the majority Jewish neighbourhood with an trove of weapons. Once he entered the synagogue the defendant began to hunt, he moved from room to room, upstairs and downstairs looking for Jewish worshippers to kill, she said. The prosecutor described the attack in graphic detail, including how Mr Bowers shot one woman in the face as she tried to protect her daughter. Pittsburgh Jewish community monitoring hate speech amid trial 13:00 , Rachel Sharp The head of security for Pittsburghs Jewish community says there has been an uptick in hate speech on the internet, but no specific threats, in the early stages of the trial of the man accused of killing 11 worshippers at a synagogue here in 2018. And Jewish leaders say that while the trial is bringing out the worst of extremists in some dark corners of the web, its also brought an outpouring of support from the community ranging from law enforcement agencies helping with security to local food vendors collaborating to bring meals to victims families during the trial. Shawn Brokos, director of community security for the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, said officials have monitored general chatter in support of the defendant ... and his hateful vitriol on the internet. The materials would turn anyones stomach, she said. Read more here: Pittsburgh Jewish community monitoring hate speech amid trial of suspect in synagogue massacre Who were the victims? 12:45 , Rachel Sharp The shooting at Tree of Life traumatised the historically Jewish Squirrel Hill community and Jews across the nation. Eleven people were killed during the shooting and seven more were injured. The first people killed were the brothers Cecil and David Rosenthal. Jerry Rabinowitz, a physician, was killed after moving towards the sound of the shooting to see if anyone needed medical assistance. The shooting was the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history, and it carried a particular edge given that it was linked to HIAS work protecting and resettling refugees work born out of the Jewish experience of persecution in Europe in the decades leading up to the Holocaust. The people who lost their lives in the shooting were: Joyce Fienberg, 75, Richard Gottfried, 65, Rose Mallinger, 97, Jerry Rabinowitz, 66, Cecil and David Rosenthal, 59 and 54, Bernice and Sylvan Simon, 84 and 86, Daniel Stein, 71, Melvin Wax, 88, and Irving Younger, 69. Who is Robert Bowers? The alleged antisemite on trial for Tree of Life synagogue shooting 12:30 , Rachel Sharp On 27, October, 2018, Robert Bowers, then 46, allegedly walked into the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and began shooting at worshippers. He allegedly killed 11 people before he was shot and wounded and surrendered to police. Mr Bowers now faces 63 federal counts, including 11 counts each of obstruction of free exercise of religion resulting in death as well as hate crimes resulting in death. He could face the death penalty if convicted. He has pleaded not guilty. So who is Robert Bowers? Find out here: Who is Robert Bowers: Alleged antisemite on trial for Tree of Life synagogue shooting Robert Bowers pushed the Great Replacement theory and made antisemitic posts before shooting 12:25 , Rachel Sharp Robert Bowers was verbose online where he was radicalised and trafficked in white nationalist conspiracy theories. Mr Bowers was a heavy user of the far right social networking platform Gab, where he promoted the Great Replacement theory and made antisemitic and racist posts. Shortly before the shooting, Mr Bowers ranted against the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) for sponsoring a National Refugee Shabbat. HIAS likes to bring invaders in that kill our people, Mr Bowers wrote on the platform. I cant sit by and watch my people get slaughtered. Screw your optics, Im going in. The shooting 12:20 , Rachel Sharp On 27 October 2018, Robert Bowers entered the synagogue where three separate services were underway involving the three different congregations that practised there, and began shooting. The shooting reportedly lasted for roughly 20 mintues. Mr Bowers was allegedly armed with an assault rifle and three semi-automatic pistols. When police arrived at the synagogue about 10 minutes after Mr Bowers entered, he shot at them. He later engaged tactical teams who arrived at the synagogue in a fire fight, fleeing to a room on the third floor of the building after he was wounded. Finally, nearly an hour-and-a-half after he entered the synagogue, Mr Bowers surrendered to law enforcement and recieved medical care for his gunshot wounds. He reportedly told a SWAT officer after surrendering that he wanted all Jews to die. Who is Robert Bowers? 12:14 , Rachel Sharp Robert Bowers, born in 1972, was 46 years old at the time of the shooting. He had, by multiple accounts, a challenging childhood. His parents divorced when he was around one year old, and his father, Randall Bowers, died by suicide while awaiting trial on a rape charge six or so years later. Mr Bowers was raised in large part by his grandparents in the Pittsburgh suburb of Whitehall and attended Baldwin High School for several years before dropping out and becoming a trucker. Mr Bowers colleagues and neighbours largely described him in the aftermath of the shooting as quiet and not memorable. One toldThe New York Times that she couldnt even remember his name. Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting What we know about the Tree of Life shooting 12:09 , Rachel Sharp The trial of Robert Bowers, the man charged with perpetrating the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history at the Tree of Life synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh in 2018, began with opening statements on Tuesday. Mr Bowers, who is charged with 63 criminal counts, could face the death penalty if convicted. Here is a rundown of what we know about him and the crimes he is charged with committing. Heres what you need to know about the case: Everything we know about Robert Bowers, defendant in the Tree of Life shooting Welcome to The Independents liveblog 12:06 , Rachel Sharp Follow all the latest updates here on the trial of Robert Bowers, the man accused of murdering 11 in a shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in 2018 RICHMOND, Va. (AP) Virginia's Glenn Youngkin is joining the list of Republican governors sending soldiers or other state law enforcement officers to the U.S. border with Mexico. Youngkin announced Wednesday that in response to a request from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott he had signed an executive order directing the deployment of 100 Virginia National Guard soldiers and 21 support personnel. The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state, Youngkin said in a statement. As leadership solutions at the federal level fall short, states are answering the call to secure our southern border, reduce the flow of fentanyl, combat human trafficking and address the humanitarian crisis." Youngkins order said the soldiers will answer to a military commander during the 30-day deployment, not any local civilian authorities, and will be equipped with weapons, ammunition, body armor, protective masks, and night vision and other support devices. The governor's office said Texas made a request in mid-May for assistance with continued instability along the U.S. border with Mexico, including the increase in supply of illegal drugs and human trafficking. Texas' request came through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, of which Virginia is a founding member, the news release said. Youngkins press team did not immediately respond to a question about the expected cost of the mission or the source of funding. Youngkin, a former private equity executive who is barred under Virginia law from seeking a second consecutive term, is frequently mentioned as a possible 2024 presidential contender. He said earlier this month that he had no plans to launch such a bid this year. Republican governors including Florida's Ron DeSantis, a presidential candidate, have recently announced plans to deploy Guard troops. Other GOP governors have made similar deployments in recent years. President Joe Biden announced in early May plans to send 1,500 active-duty troops to the border, in addition to the 2,500 National Guard members already there. Those military personnel were tasked with data entry, warehouse support and other administrative duties so that U.S. Customs and Border Protection can focus on fieldwork, the White House said. While some other Virginia Republicans praised Youngkin's decision, the state's Democrats characterized the move as absurd or disingenuous. Youngkin for President has officially jumped the shark -- our VA National Guard troops shouldnt be used to further presidential ambitions much less fight a MAGA culture war in Texas of all places -- Never thought I would see my state so compromised, tweeted state Sen. Scott Surovell. Firefighters work at a site of an earlier Russian missile strike in the sea port of Odesa. (Reuters) MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia's defence ministry said on Wednesday that its forces had destroyed what it described as Ukraine's "last warship" two days ago in the port of Odesa in a missile strike. Ukraine's navy declined to comment. "The last warship of the Ukrainian navy, the Yuriy Olefirenko, was destroyed at a warship mooring in the port of Odesa," Defence Ministry Spokesman Igor Konashenkov said in a daily briefing on the war. He said the vessel had been hit with "high-precision weapons" - a phrase he uses to mean missiles - on May 29, but gave no further details. Oleh Chalyk, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian navy, said he would not respond to any assertions made by Russia. The Ukrainian navy will not disclose any information about losses during the war, he added. Ukrainian officials said on Monday that Russia had put five aircraft out of action in an attack on a military target in western Ukraine and caused a fire at the Black Sea port of Odesa in heavy air strikes early on Monday. Reuters was unable to independently verify the battlefield accounts of either side. The Russian defence ministry also said on Wednesday that its forces had pushed Ukrainian units out of positions around the settlements of Krasnohorivka and Yasynuvata in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, which Moscow claims to have annexed. The ministry said "fierce fighting" was continuing around Avdiivka, a large town located between the two settlements, which has been largely razed to the ground during months of fighting. The poster of Netflix series "Black Knight" is seen in this photo provided by the streaming platform. Yonhap A growing number of Korean filmmakers have launched drama series on streaming platforms to reach a wider audience amid the sluggish film industry and changing consumer trends. Following the global success of the Netflix series "Squid Game" (2021) directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, these streaming platforms, also known as over-the-top (OTT) platforms, have emerged as a more practical and cost-effective choice for filmmakers grappling with financial constraints. As theatrical releases of new films were on hold amid the COVID-19 pandemic and deep-pocketed streaming services increased investment in original content, several Korean filmmakers have collaborated with OTT platforms to work on drama series. Cho Eui-seok, best known for "Master" (2016) and "Cold Eyes" (2013), directed Netflix's new sci-fi series "Black Knight," which depicts stark social divide in a dystopian future devastated by severe air pollution. Cho said he decided to work on the TV series for the first time since his debut in 2002 considering the slim chance of drawing investment for new film projects. "I heard that investment for several films has been hold and there are over 60 movies that haven't been able to hit screens," Cho said in a recent media interview. "I thought it would be a little difficult to work on new films for a while." Lee Jong-pil, who took the helm of film dramas "Samjin Company English Class" (2020) and "Born to Sing" (2013), also presented his first TV drama series "One Day Off" on local platform Wavve. The eight-part omnibus drama series starring actor Lee Na-young follows a high school teacher who travels around the country on Saturdays to escape from the drudgery of her life. The promotional poster of Wavve original drama "One Day Off" starring Lee Na-young is seen in this photo provided by Wavve. Yonhap Its a fickle fish one that evades even the most experienced anglers and darts for cover when curious passersby try to spot its freckled body against the backdrop of a gravel-lined stream. Despite capturing the attention of many local scientists and conservationists, Californias Central Coast steelhead trout remain listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act, according to the latest review of the species released in May by the National Marine Fisheries Service, an arm of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The population segment on the south-central California coast reviewed by the federal agency, which has a range stretching from the Pajaro River in Monterey Bay to Arroyo Grande Creek, was first listed as threatened in 1997. It hasnt appeared to improve since then. A listing as threatened means the population is close to becoming endangered or at risk of extinction. Devastated by drought and blocked migration pathways through their habitat, steelhead in San Luis Obispo County are struggling to survive in the waters where they were once abundant. These fish are canaries in the coal mine, said Freddy Otte, biologist for the city of San Luis Obispo. If theyre gone, something is wrong; our creeks arent healthy. A young steelhead swims in Los Osos Creek in May. The plight of the steelhead has motivated conservation and restoration efforts across the county in an attempt to save the species. Teams of scientists have united to pool their data and countless hours toward studying the steelhead and restoring its San Luis Obispo County habitat. With the proper resources, the work could benefit not only steelhead, but also entire ecosystems impacted by climate change and human interference. These are our lands and waters that if we dont take care of them, and we lose our steelhead, thats absolutely on us, said Don Chartrand, executive director of Creek Lands Conservation, a local nonprofit organization that works on conservation plans and restoration projects. If the steelhead dont exist, our watersheds are going to unravel even more, added Steph Wald, watersheds projects manager at Creek Lands Conservation. Steelhead in San Carpoforo Creek in 2007. Trout once filled SLO County creeks Steelhead trout are considered an indicator species, scientists say. If you see lots of them swimming in a stream, that likely means the water quality there is quite good. An absence of the fish could mean the water is polluted, too warm or lacks the proper nutrients for animals to survive. The steelhead starts its life in freshwater creeks and streams. Some of the fish, known as steelhead, then migrate to the ocean to grow big before swimming back to freshwater to lay eggs and start a new generation. Fish that never swim out to sea are called rainbow trout. Collectively, the fish are known by the species name Oncorhynchus mykiss despite genetic differences between the two. Through the Great Depression, San Luis Obispo County creeks brimmed with the fish, according to historical accounts. If one had nothing else for dinner, there were always the fish in San Luis Obispo Creek, Rose McKeen writes in a 1988 book about historical San Luis Obispo. During those disastrous years, the creek literally fed many people, just as it had once fed the mission padres and the Chumash Indians. Pollution, dams, levees and severe drought have since left the creeks with little to no steelhead. This year, Otte said he hasnt seen a single steelhead in San Luis Obispo Creek. Others have seen small juveniles, but theres a noticeable absence of the large adult steelhead. Historically, there were thousands of fish in our streams, said Don Baldwin, an environmental scientist with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Today, were lucky to see any. Adult steelhead in the Big Sur River. Decline of steelhead due to drought, migration barriers The National Marine Fisheries Services five-year review of the species released in May attributes the lack of steelhead to two main factors: devastating drought worsened by climate change and blockages in creeks that impede migration paths. Without enough water in the streams, steelhead simply cannot survive. The big story is the prolonged drought during this five-year review period, which caused local streams to shrivel to trickles, said Mark Capelli, the local steelhead recovery coordinator for the National Marine Fisheries Service. On top of that, we had numerous wildfires in the various watersheds and then there was a deterioration in ocean conditions, which were not conducive to the rearing of adult steelhead. Wildfires in the Big Sur area filled streams with charred debris and ash and record-high ocean temperatures from 2013 to 2019 likely caused many of the adult steelhead to die, according to the National Marine Fisheries Services report. Human-made barriers in streams, such as dams, have also likely hurt the population by impeding where the fish can migrate to lay eggs, the report said. Freddy Otte, biologist for the city of San Luis Obispo, sits in a spot that was previously a dam blocking the San Luis Obispo Creek along the Cuesta Grade. The dam was removed in the early 2000s to allow steelhead to migrate upstream. Lack of comprehensive monitoring impedes species assessment Figuring out how many steelhead are swimming up and down the Central Coasts streams is a difficult task because of a severe lack of funding and staffing. The lack of comprehensive monitoring has ... limited the ability to fully assess the status of the species, the National Marine Fisheries Services population review said. The state has funded coastal monitoring programs for steelhead and salmon in areas north of San Luis Obispo County, such as the Carmel and Big Sur rivers. South of that, however, there isnt a dedicated funding source for counting the fish locally, Baldwin said. Any monitoring efforts conducted in San Luis Obispo County streams are conducted through a patchwork of self-funded efforts by Fish and Wildlife, local cities, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations. Cal Poly third years Max Grensted, left, and Jade Taylor, right, work to get small bugs off rocks in San Luis Obispo Creek on May 26. The work, conducted in partnership with the city of San Luis Obispo, will indicate whether the creek water quality is good based off what kind of bugs are present. Funding and staffing is the biggest challenge, Baldwin said. And then, even once you have the staffing, landowner access can be a challenge. A lot of our creeks are on private property anywhere from large ranch lands to small urban subdivisions and its difficult to get full access. A bill introduced by California State Assembly member Steve Bennet, D-Oxnard, would stabilize funding toward coastal monitoring by Fish and Wildlife by establishing a dedicated fund to support the programs. Assembly Bill 809 has yet to pass through the Assembly for a vote by the California State Senate. Plus, its difficult to monitor a species that tends to avoid human interaction, Baldwin noted. Steelhead are very difficult to monitor because they are so elusive, he said. Were chasing ghosts. We never see them, Baldwin said. They can come in one day, spawn overnight and head back to the ocean. Restoration projects could help boost steelhead population Steelhead restoration efforts over the past few decades across San Luis Obispo County have attempted to make the area more habitable for the important fish. The groups conducting this work hope that by helping to repair habitat for the steelhead, the entire watersheds will benefit and become more resilient to climate change impacts. For example, an old city water system dam on San Luis Obispo Creek along Highway 101 on the Cuesta Grade was knocked down about two decades ago to allow fish to migrate through there. The city of San Luis Obispo also removed a culvert on Coon Creek at Pecho Valley Road an access road to Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant in 2004. A 1930s-era stream gauge on Arroyo Grande Creek near the intersection of West Branch Street and Highway 101 is slated to be modified so steelhead can jump over it and continue to migrate to better habitat upstream. That project, primarily carried out by Creek Lands Conservation, is a collaboration between the county, city of Arroyo Grande, Lucia Mar Unified School District, California Conservation Corps and private landowners. Other restoration efforts around the county include a new San Luis Obispo Creek resiliency and rewilding plan funded by the Harold J. Miossi Charitable Trust; predator removal in areas such as Chorro Creek, which feeds into the Morro Bay estuary, and rehabilitation of the Villa Creek estuary north of Cayucos. To combat drought, Creek Lands Conservation is working to design and soon implement what it calls streamflow enhancement projects. The process could increase streamflows during abnormally dry periods by strategically releasing water stored in tanks or reservoirs into drought-thirsty streams. Preventing steelhead from becoming endangered takes more than just monitoring the population and working to fix up habitats, Chartrand said. Scientists can study the steelhead, release reports and perhaps implement successful restoration projects, he said. But all of that work means nothing if the public doesnt know about it or doesnt care about it, he added. We need to change that legacy of decision making that costs us our natural heritage, he said. We just cant afford (not to do) it. WASHINGTON (AP) As an alternative to affirmative action, colleges from California to Florida have tried a range of strategies to achieve the diversity they say is essential to their campuses. Many have given greater preference to low-income families. Others started admitting top students from every community in their state. But after years of experimentation often prompted by state-level bans on considering race in admissions theres no clear solution. In states requiring race-neutral policies, many colleges have seen enrollment drops among Black and Hispanic students, especially at selective colleges that historically have been mostly white. Now, as the Supreme Court decides the fate of affirmative action, colleges nationwide could soon face the same test, with some bracing for setbacks that could erase decades of progress on campus diversity. A ruling is expected by the end of June. At Amherst College, officials have estimated that going entirely race-neutral would reduce Black, Hispanic and Indigenous populations by half. We fully expect it would be a significant decrease in our population, said Matthew McGann, Amherst's director of admission. Facing a conservative Supreme Court that appeared skeptical from the start, colleges have been preparing for a rollback. Some are considering adding more essays to get a better picture of an applicants background. Others are planning to boost recruiting in racially diverse areas, or admit more transfer students from community colleges. The court took up affirmative action in response to challenges at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina. Lower courts upheld admission systems at both schools, rejecting claims that the schools discriminated against white and Asian-American applicants. Meanwhile, other schools have been taking lessons from colleges that dont consider race. Nine states previously banned affirmative action, starting with California in 1996 and most recently Idaho in 2020. After Michigan voters rejected it in 2006, the University of Michigan shifted attention to low-income students. It sent graduates to work as counselors in low-income high schools. It started offering college prep in Detroit and Grand Rapids. It offered full scholarships for low-income Michigan residents. More recently, it started accepting fewer early admission applications, which are more likely to come from white students. Despite those efforts, the university offers itself as a cautionary tale. The share of Black and Hispanic undergraduates hasnt fully rebounded from a falloff after 2006. And while Hispanic enrollments have been increasing, Black enrollments continued to slide, going from 8% of undergraduates in 2006 to 4% now. The campus is drawing more low-income students, but that hasnt translated to racial diversity, said Erica Sanders, the director of undergraduate admissions at Michigan. Socioeconomic status is not a proxy for race, Sanders said. At the same time, some of Michigan's less selective colleges have fared better. At nearby Eastern Michigan University, the number of students of color increased, reflecting demographic shifts in the state. It illustrates what experts say is a chilling effect seen most acutely at selective colleges students of color see fewer of their peers at places like Ann Arbor, prompting them to choose campuses that appear more welcoming. Growing up in Ann Arbor, there was an expectation that Odia Kaba would attend the University of Michigan. When her application was deferred, she started at Eastern Michigan with plans to transfer to Ann Arbor her sophomore year. By then, Kaba was getting daily texts from her sister, who attended U-M, describing the microaggressions she faced as a Black student on campus. Rooms went silent when she walked in. She was ignored in group projects. She felt alone and suffocated. Why would I go to U of M? Kaba, 22, remembers thinking. I'm just going to be stuck with people that don't look like me, can't relate to me, and with no way to escape it. Kaba stayed at Eastern Michigan and graduated with a degree in quantitative economics this year. Even though it's a mostly white campus, Kaba said she found pockets of diversity that helped make her comfortable. I'm in economics, which is a white male-dominated space. But I can walk out of the classroom and be surrounded by my people, and I just feel safe," she said. The University of California saw similar enrollment slides after a statewide ban in 1996. Within two years, Black and Hispanic enrollments fell by half at the systems two most selective campuses, Berkeley and UCLA. The system would go on to spend more than $500 million on programs aimed at low-income and first-generation college students. The system also started a program that promises admission to the top 9% of students in each high school across the state, an attempt to reach strong students from all backgrounds. A similar promise in Texas has been credited for expanding racial diversity, and opponents of affirmative action cite it as a successful model. In California, the promise drew students from a wider geographic area but did little to expand racial diversity, the system said in a brief to the Supreme Court. It had almost no impact at Berkeley and UCLA, where students compete against tens of thousands of other applicants. Today at UCLA and Berkeley, Hispanic students make up 20% of undergraduates, higher than in 1996 but lower than their 53% share among California's high school graduates. Black students, meanwhile, have a smaller presence than they did in 1996, accounting for 2% of undergraduates at Berkeley. Opponents of affirmative action say some states have fared well without it. After Oklahoma outlawed the practice in 2012, the states flagship university saw no long-term severe decline in minority enrollments, the state's attorney general told the Supreme Court. It pointed to a recent freshman class at the University of Oklahoma that had more Hispanic, Asian and Native American students than in 2012. The share of Black students fell, but it wasnt far from flagship universities in other states that allow affirmative action, the state said. Still, many colleges expect racial diversity could take a hit. If affirmative action is struck down, colleges fear they will unknowingly admit fewer students of color. In the long run, it can be self-perpetuating if numbers fall, the campus can appear less attractive to future students of color. That's a problem, colleges say, because racial diversity benefits the entire campus, exposing students to other worldviews and preparing them for a diverse workforce. We need to make sure were sending the message that were committed to diversity, independent of what the court does, said Doug Christiansen, dean of admissions at Vanderbilt University. The stakes are high for colleges like Vanderbilt, where Black students make up 9% of the student body, more than most highly selective colleges. But the school isnt planning a major shift in strategy. Instead, it plans to build on efforts to recruit in diverse areas and expand its outreach. In some ways, colleges have been preparing for an end to affirmative action since earlier legal challenges, Christiansen said. These are things weve had to think about for quite some time, he said. Beyond race, the decision has the impact to reshape other admissions policies. To draw more underserved populations, experts say colleges may need to do away with policies that advantage white students, from legacy preferences and early admission to standardized test scores. At Amherst, officials ended legacy preferences in 2021 and expanded financial aid. The college is looking for ways to sustain its diversity, but officials say options are limited. I dont know if theres going to be some terrific innovation, McGann said. If a school had figured it out, they would be doing it already. ___ The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content. LONDON (AP) The U.K. government hailed an era of cheaper Australian wine and New Zealand kiwi fruit as free-trade agreements with the two Southern Hemisphere nations took effect Wednesday. U.K. Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch said that the start of the first all-new trade deals that Britain has struck since it left the European Union marked a historic moment. Economists, however, said the economic effect would be limited. Trade expert David Henig called the new deals a bit of a nothingburger. The agreements remove tariffs on most goods, streamline some regulations and make it easier for Britons to work Down Under, and for Aussies and Kiwis to work in the U.K. Britain marked the occasion by sending the Australian and New Zealand governments care packages of products it hopes will get an export boost, including Welsh whiskey, English gin, leather bags from the Cambridge Satchel Co. and Beano, a kids comic book. The U.K. says the deals will boost bilateral trade by 53% with Australia and 59% with New Zealand, though the overall volumes are relatively modest: Australia accounts for 0.9% of U.K. trade, and New Zealand for 0.2%. Henig, director of the U.K. Trade Policy Project at the European Centre for International Political Economy, said that the deals could make bits and pieces of difference. For individual companies it can make a difference. But, he said, the likeliest outcome is very little changes. Many economists say no amount of new trade deals will make up for the economic hit of leaving the EU, which before Brexit accounted for about half of all U.K. trade. Britains exit erected new trade barriers with the bloc, an economic behemoth of 27 countries and 500 million people. Britains independent Office for Budget Responsibility estimates Brexit knocked 4% off U.K. gross domestic product. The new deals together are expected to bring an estimated boost to GDP of about 0.1% by 2035. Some former U.K. government officials also say the deals are skewed towards Australia and New Zealand. Ex-Environment Secretary George Eustice, who was a member of the government when the deal was struck, said last year that the U.K. gave away far too much for far too little in return. British farmers, meanwhile, fear beef and lamb from the antipodean nations large livestock industries will flood the British market under the deals vastly increased quotas. The U.K. government insists the deals have robust protections for British farmers. Sue Davies, head of consumer rights and food policy at U.K. consumer organization Which?, said the groups research suggested people want trade deals that prioritize high food, product safety, data protection and environmental standards. The success of trade agreements will be judged on what they deliver for ordinary people in their everyday lives, not just the export opportunities they provide. The ability to strike new trade deals around the world was touted as a Brexit benefit by those who argued Britain would be better off outside the EU. But deals have been slow in coming, though the U.K. has rolled over several agreements that it had when it was part of the bloc, and is on course to join the trans-Pacific trade partnership that includes Japan, Canada and Vietnam. Before Brexit, then Prime Minister Boris Johnson touted a future free trade deal with the United States as one of the great prizes of Brexit. Next week, his successor, Rishi Sunak, is due to visit Washington for talks with U.S. President Joe Biden. A trade deal isn't even on the agenda. We are not seeking to pursue a free-trade deal with the U.S. currently, Sunak spokesman Max Blain said Tuesday. ___ Follow APs coverage of Brexit at https://apnews.com/hub/brexit and of U.K. politics at https://apnews.com/hub/british-politics THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) United Nations appeals judges on Wednesday significantly expanded the convictions of two allies of late Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic, holding them responsible for involvement in crimes across Bosnia and in one town in Croatia as members of a joint criminal plan to drive out non-Serbs from the areas during the Balkan wars. The appeals chamber at the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunal overturned their acquittals of involvement in the criminal plan and raised the sentences of Jovica Stanisic and Franko Simatovic from 12 to 15 years. Neither man showed any emotion as Presiding Judge Graciela Gatti Santana passed sentence. Stanisic was in court for the hearing, while Simatovic watched by video link from a U.N. detention unit. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. APs earlier story follows below. THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) Two allies of late Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic convicted of aiding and abetting murder and other crimes committed by Serb paramilitaries in a Bosnian town in 1992 are set to hear the results of their appeal Wednesday, 20 years after they were first indicted by a United Nations court. The decision by the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals in the retrial of Jovica Stanisic and Franko Simatovic brings to an end the longest-running war crimes prosecution dating back to the Balkan wars of the early 1990s. The length of the case underscores the complexity of successfully proving war crimes in international courts, amid international calls for perpetrators of atrocities during the current war in Ukraine to be brought to justice. Stanisic, a former head of Serbias State Security Service, and Simatovic, a senior intelligence operative with the service, are the only Serbian officials to have been convicted by a U.N. court of involvement in crimes in Bosnia. Milosevic was put on trial for his alleged involvement in fomenting the bloody conflicts that erupted as Yugoslavia crumbled but he died in his cell in 2006 before verdicts could be reached. Stanisic and Simatovic initially were acquitted a decade ago by the U.N.'s Yugoslav war crimes tribunal but an appeals chamber later ordered a retrial. That case was heard by the residual mechanism that deals with unresolved cases from the Yugoslav and Rwanda tribunals. Mechanism judges convicted the two Serbs in 2021 of involvement in crimes as paramilitaries overran the Bosnian town of Bosanski Samac in April 1992. But the judges cleared them, citing a lack of evidence, of similar crimes in other towns and villages in Bosnia and Croatia. They were each sentenced to 12 years imprisonment. The trial chamber is satisfied that the accused provided practical assistance which had a substantial effect on the commission of the crimes of murder, forcible displacement and persecution committed in Bosanski Samac and were aware that their acts assisted in their commission, Presiding Judge Burton Hall said when convicting Stanisic and Simatovic in 2021. Both the defendants and prosecutors appealed. At a hearing in January, Stanisic's lawyer, Wayne Jordash, told judges his client was a bit player." He was, Jordash argued, "barely involved at all. UNITED NATIONS (AP) A divided U.N. Security Council extended an arms embargo on South Sudan Tuesday over protests from the worlds newest nation and abstentions from Russia, China and the councils three African nations sympathetic to its demands that sanctions be lifted. The 10-0 vote with five abstentions on the U.S.-drafted resolution was the same as the vote on the previous sanctions resolution adopted last May. In a report to the Security Council earlier this month, U.N. experts monitoring the arms embargo and a travel ban and asset freeze on targeted individuals said South Sudan is facing violent clashes and increasing disillusionment and frustration as it struggles to implement the most challenging provisions of a fragile 2018 power-sharing agreement. They pointed to difficulties integrating rival military forces, drafting a new constitution and preparing for the country's first election as an independent nation in December 2024, they said. The resolution welcomes encouraging developments in implementing some elements including completing the first phase of training and graduation of the unified force. But it expresses concern over the continued intensification of violence prolonging the political, security, economic and humanitarian crisis in most parts of the country, condemns the mobilization of armed groups, and underscores the need for parties to the agreement to avoid a relapse into widespread conflict. There were high hopes when oil-rich South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after a long conflict. But the country slid into a civil war in December 2013 largely based on ethnic divisions when forces loyal to the current president, Salva Kiir, battled those loyal to the current vice president, Riek Machar. The war, which left nearly 400,000 people dead and more than 4 million displaced, ended with the 2018 peace agreement, bringing Kiir and Machar together in a government of national unity. Under the agreement, elections were supposed to be held in February 2023, but last August they were postponed until December 2024. U.N. special envoy Nicolas Haysom said last week that We still see 2023 as a make or break year for this nation, if it is to fully implement the peace agreement, which is to suggest that matters cannot be deferred to 2024. The resolution adopted Tuesday extends sanctions until May 31, 2024 and lifts the requirement that South Sudan notify the Security Council committee monitoring sanctions about the supply, sale or transfer of non-lethal military equipment. It also reiterates the councils readiness to modify or suspend the arms embargo in light of progress by South Sudan on fulfilling key benchmarks toward implementing the power-sharing agreement. South Sudans U.N. Ambassador Akuei Bona Malwal objected to the resolution, telling the council it was put forward in bad faith with ill intentions and calling the sanctions coercive and unnecessary. It is counterproductive and has had an adverse humanitarian effect on the very citizens the proponents claim to support and protect from harms way more than the government, he said. The resolution is an example of brazen interference in domestic affairs. Japans U.N. Ambassador Ishikane Kimihiro, who supported the resolution, said sufficient progress hasnt been made by South Sudan in implementing the agreement, but he said sanctions should be lifted as soon as that happens. Among the countries that abstained, Chinas deputy ambassador Geng Shuang said sanctions have seriously hampered the countrys implementation of the 2018 agreement and efforts to improve its security. Ghanas U.N. Ambassador Harold Agyeman said what South Sudan needs from the international community at this time are not sanctions but carefully managed support for its development and transition. Elon Musk said the interests of the US and China are intertwined like conjoined twins during his surprise visit to China on Tuesday amid strained diplomatic ties between the countries. The Tesla billionaire reached Beijing in his first visit to the country in over three years, visited Chinas top ministries and discussed electric vehicles. Mr Musk also met Chinas foreign, commerce, and industry ministers and dined with Zeng Yuqun, the chairman of top battery supplier CATL. The visit garnered a lot of attention in China and revealed adulation for Mr Musk from Chinese social media users, even as the relationship between Washington and Beijing plummeted. The interests of the United States and China are intertwined like conjoined twins, Mr Musk was quoted as saying by the foreign ministry of China. He was later also quoted by the countrys commerce ministry as saying that relations between the two countries were not a zero-sum game in which one side must lose if the other were to win. While little is known of the discussions the Twitter chief is having as he remains unusually quiet on social media Mr Musk and industry minister Jin Zhuanglong exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent networked vehicles, said the ministry. China, responsible for half of all global electric vehicle sales, serves as the location for Teslas first factory outside the US. The company reportedly submitted applications to expand its production facilities in Shanghai. Mr Musks plans were still awaiting approval as he earlier said it faces some constraints. The talks are expected to be aimed at easing this expansion, believe observers. The billionaires visit has also generated a lot of interest among Chinas netizens. Some called him a pioneer and Brother Ma, in an oblique reference to Jack Ma, while others said he should become the next US president. Hes a global idol, wrote one Chinese social media user. Elon Musk is just great, if only China could have someone like Elon Musk, said another. A worker stands next to a Tesla being charged in Beijing (AP) In recent months, foreign companies have been facing increasing pressure in China, with a recent crackdown on international consulting firms. Both the US and China have also imposed restrictions on each others chipmakers. American companies are also facing pressure from outside as increasing threats of military escalation with Taiwan forces businesses to diversify their supply chains away from China. Mr Musk, however, touted the Asian countrys development as its ministers assured they were looking at increased cooperation. The Chinese government statement cited Mr Musk as saying Tesla was willing to expand its business in China and opposes decoupling a reference to fears the world may split into multiple markets with incompatible products. China's foreign minister Qin Gang, right, poses for photos with Tesla chief Elon Musk (AP) On Tuesday, foreign minister Qin Gang told Mr Musk that China will unswervingly promote high-level opening up and create a market-oriented, law-based and internationalised business environment, said the government statement. Chinas development is an opportunity for the world, it said. Musk said that the China-US relationship is not a zero-sum game. He thanked China for its support and guarantee for Tesla's Shanghai factory during the COVID-19 epidemic. He praised the vitality and potential of China's development, expressed full confidence in the Chinese market https://t.co/LvXrLNV7V4 Global Times (@globaltimesnews) May 31, 2023 Mr Qin also told Mr Musk that Chinas electric vehicle market has broad prospects for development. Mr Musk is expected to meet other senior Chinese officials and visit the Shanghai plant later in the week, reported Reuters citing sources. With China's economy also experiencing a slowdown and facing internal and external challenges, like anti-monopoly measures and the US-Chinese political tensions respectively, the ruling Communist Party has been engaging with more prominent CEOs off late. Chinese premier Li Qiang earlier held discussions with Apples Tim Cook, Pfizers Albert Bourla, Rio Tintos Jakob Stausholm and Toshiaki Higashihara of Hitachi, reiterating China's commitment to creating a favourable business environment. NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. A Virginia man was arrested Tuesday on murder and gun charges in the killing of a New Jersey borough councilwoman who was found fatally shot in her SUV outside her home earlier this year, prosecutors said. Rashid Ali Bynum, 28, of Portsmouth, Virginia, was arrested at 10:45 a.m. Tuesday and charged with the February slaying of Sayreville councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour. Bynum was taken into custody outside a residence in Chesapeake City, Virginia, without incident. He was charged with first-degree murder, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun, and second-degree possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose. Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone did not give a motive in the killing during a news conference announcing the arrest Tuesday afternoon. The prosecutor said Bynum knew Dwumfour from the Champions Royal Assembly Church in Newark and they worked together at the church. Dwumfour was listed as one of the contacts on his cellphone, Ciccone said, adding later that investigators traced his travels from his cellphone and vehicle location data on Feb. 1. "The murder has shaken the community and no arrest will bring back the late councilwoman," the prosecutor said. 'OUR HEARTS ARE JUST BROKEN': New Jersey councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour found fatally shot near home, police say EUNICE DWUMFOUR'S SLAYING: A New Jersey Republican councilwoman was shot to death. What we know about her death. John Wisniewski, the attorney representing the family, said family members that attended the news conference did not recognize the suspects name or his photo. "For the family, there are as many questions now as to why did he target Eunice, what was the motivation behind him targeting Eunice, and those are all unanswered," Wisniewski said, adding that the family thanked God for answering their prayers during an emotional time. "I hope that today is the beginning of a healing process," said state Attorney General Matt Platkin. Sayreville Mayor Victoria Kilpatrick said with the arrest, the path to true justice for Eunice can begin because thats what she deserves. "My prayers are going to her family because she has never been forgotten and shes not going to be forgotten as long as I am here, and as long as Im a part of Sayreville Eunice's name is going to be continued to be spoken," Kilpatrick said, later adding that shes looking forward to getting more information about who would want to hurt Dwumfour whom she called "a beautiful person." Bynum is awaiting extradition to New Jersey. He will be held at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional before his appearance for a detention hearing in Superior Court. This is a case that has drawn national interest. Dwumfour, 30, a Republican, the first Black elected official in Sayreville, was found dead in her vehicle on Feb. 1 with several gunshot wounds by Sayreville police officers who went to Samuel Circle off Ernston Road in the Parlin section after receiving 911 calls of gunshots fired. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY NETWORK: Eunice Dwumfour case: Virginia man in death of New Jersey councilwoman Still another summer of superhero movies is upon us. Oh, ho hum. Here IRL, the superheroes who were among us did their work less flamboyantly, with pen and paper and bank statements and muscular documents like subpoenas. They didnt wear Spandex suits, and anyway, you would not have wanted to see that; I know I wouldnt have. Sometimes they got attacked, even bombed, and they survived and triumphed, but not by being able to fly or breathe fire or control the insect kingdom the way those made-up superheroes do. And looking at their stories today, their legacies are that they probably did more good than harm, not that they vanquished all evil. This is Los Angeles, after all. Over the course of eight years, 1915 to 1923, L.A. endured eight revolving-door police chiefs and four mayoral administrations. Infesting it all, mayors, City Council members, and district attorneys pocketed campaign money and even payoffs from gamblers, bootleggers and madams, as did the police. As Joe Domanick wrote in his fine history of the LAPD, To Protect and To Serve, their donors stayed in business, and official L.A. looked the other way. This saturation of vice was so corrupting it was rotting the fabric of both the city government and the LAPD, Domanick found. One liquor smuggler brazenly griped that he never got the $100,000 worth of police protection that hed paid for. Los Angeles needed a man on a white horse, somebody to clean things up, or at least give the place a sheen of rectitude. So it hired August Vollmer. Vollmer already had a formidable reputation as a criminologist the newspapers liked to call him the real Sherlock Holmes of the United States and if the men who hired him thought of him as window dressing, Vollmer didnt act like it. In 1923, L.A. gave Vollmer 12 scant months as police chief to make things happen and he did. He began the school that later became the police academy, and demanded professional training and conduct. He instituted science-based detection and modern technology. He wheedled money from the city for more cops, more police stations, more equipment, and he made nice with community organizations. Before coming to L.A., he had, as Berkeleys police chief, put police on motorcycles and hired a Black officer. And then, like the Lone Ranger, at the end of his year he rode off back to Berkeley, and to other cities whose police needed his touch. Vollmers reforms of a hundred years ago are the LAPDs scaffolding to this day. Yet their biggest fail was a problem Vollmers reforms didnt address or perhaps even recognize as a problem. The Vollmer definition of corrupt and unprofessional didnt really extend to the institutionalized abuses that had already brutalized Los Angeles communities of color, and would continue to do so. Aggressive, quasi-militarized policing of poor and minority neighborhoods, in the name of law and order, was not a glitch; it was the programming itself, the abuse of authority in the name of authority. In the 1950s and 60s, Chief William Parker spent 15 years as LAPD chief, and he was a martinet about discipline. In those postwar years, he hired ex-military men accustomed to following orders and doing battle with an enemy. It was Parker who came up with the phrase thin blue line. The Parker policeman didnt take hooker freebies, nor tips for selective eyesight about crimes. The Parker policeman, as modeled by the TV cops created by Parkers friend Jack Webb, didnt have so much as an overdue library book. The Parker policeman was not divorced; Parkers LAPD driver and the future police chief, Daryl F. Gates, told me that his own divorce cost him points on the police civil service exam. In the decades after the Vollmer reforms, middle-class and white L.A. applauded the LAPD for suppressing crime by whatever means required; behavior that would now be police misconduct, even criminal, was just what it took to keep order. The cop jargon then was about DWB, driving while Black, and NHI murders, no human involved, meaning minority-on-minority killings and, in squad-car conversation from an officer who took part in the Rodney King beating, a racist joke about Gorillas in the Mist. The first big fissure in the Vollmer reforms came about 10 years after his brief tenure. Sailor Joe Shaw, the brother of Mayor Frank Shaw, was selling the answers to police civil service exams and other preferments right out of his City Hall office. Although the mayor modeled himself as a progressive, and welcomed people of color into civic life he lived in South Central L.A. over time, the corruption that permeated the LAPD leaked into other parts of government work, like no-bid city contracts and political donations from mobsters and madams. Wendell L. Miller, a minister and founding president of the reform group CIVIC, summoned the citizenry to action thusly: The decent people of Los Angeles must get together and force the agencies of the law to carry out the intent of the law. L.A.s government house was so crooked that any number of reform groups flourished in the 1920s and into the 1930s. Organizations on the left and right created a critical mass for a housecleaning, and in 1938 Shaw was recalled, the nations first recall of a big-city mayor. The recall was one of the reforms that another of our civic caped crusaders helped to put in place (more about him later). Then Los Angeles elected a new civic janitor-in-chief to swab out City Hall Fletcher Bowron, a man not on a white horse but in a judges robes, a moderate of unchallenged integrity, acceptable to all of the elements of the reform movement. Lets take a moment here to zoom out, while the new Mayor Bowron starts his administration by firing the corrupt Shaw-loyalists in City Hall, up to and including the police chief. L.A. civic government in that age was a sinkhole, but that sinkhole was different from its equivalents elsewhere to the east. Raphe Sonenshein, the executive director of the Pat Brown Institute at Cal State L.A., told me, In the East and Midwestern urban worlds, reformers were often considered 'goo-goos,'" a baby-fied mocking of the phrase good government. It sneeringly implied they were a bunch of dilettantes, Sonenshein said, amateurs seeking some rainbows-and-roses ethical governance outside the hard-nosed practicalities of party-boss politics. But in the Western and Southwestern states, where party organizations rarely took root, reform became a bigger movement led by Progressives, who made reform into real politics and government. This was especially the case in L.A., where progressivism sank some deep roots more than a hundred years ago, with the result that nowadays, reform is real politics and government in Los Angeles, as many leaders and activists from City Hall to community organizations to neighborhood councils are pursuing their own visions of L.A. reform. That's what makes this era in Los Angeles not just a reminder of L.A.'s history but a roadmap to today's politics and government. Bowron was reelected on the eve of World War II. Two months after Pearl Harbor, he went on the radio and declared that had Abraham Lincoln been president at that moment in history, he would make short work of rounding up the Japanese and putting them where they could do no harm, and that meant Japan-born and U.S.-born alike, good and bad. In 1942, that kind of talk only enhanced his standing. What got him booted from City Hall happened the late 1940s and early 50s, during the Red Scare. Bowron still operating in a good-government gear snagged a huge federal grant to build public housing for thousands of poor and working-class Angelenos. The city used eminent domain to clear much of Chavez Ravine of its residents (most of them also, paradoxically, poor and working-class Angelenos) to build the Elysian Park Heights project. Well, the city got the land and cleared off the locals, all right but before the building began, the cry went up that this was a socialist undertaking. He took a lot of crap for that people who were against it calling him a communist, Tom Sitton told me. Sitton is a historian whos written a half-dozen books on L.A.s civic leadership. Then the real estate industry jumped aboard, arguing that the gubmint should not be in the house-building business. And so, after 15 years in office, Bowron was voted out. L.A. bought the Chavez Ravine land back, cheap, from the feds, on the promise that it would go to some public purpose, and then L.A. traded it to the Brooklyn Dodgers in exchange for Wrigley Field in South L.A . And some magic beans. (Fletcher Bowron Square near City Hall is named for him, and its a diss to his memory: a few dismal shops in the underground mall, and above ground, the pitiable six-story Triforium, intended to be a vividly lighted music box, but its never really worked properly, and if it cant be fixed in time for the Olympics, better we throw an immense tarp over it and hang an under construction sign to keep the embarrassment from going global.) Bowron had a couple of well-known crusading contemporaries. One of them was John Anson Ford, after whom the open-air amphitheater in the Cahuenga Pass is named. (How many of you thought the Ford was named for the renowned director John Ford? Cmon, you know you did.) Ford came here in 1921, driving across country with his family. Hed been a Chicago Tribune newspaperman and an editor at, of all places, Popular Mechanics. The slimy mechanics of L.A. government soon engrossed him, and in 1927, he was on the grand jury looking into the Julian oil swindle, which picked the pockets of prominent and ordinary Angelenos alike. In 1934 he was elected to the first of his six terms as a county supervisor often the only liberal on the board. Translation: a lot of 4 to 1 votes. Fords enduring reforms in a changing L.A. County included establishing the county human relations commission, to lessen the frictions that tend to produce deplorable incidents involving minority groups. He crafted government programs to help poor and elderly Angelenos, and retired from the board at age 75. He lived to be 100, and earned his nickname, Mr. Los Angeles. In 1937, he ran against Shaw and lost, but a year later, Shaw was recalled and Fords friend Bowron was mayor, taking up the reform cause. These reforms looked both obvious and like a slam-dunk in modern L.A., but the forces were entrenched enough that someone saw fit to bomb people over them. Clifford Clinton was the son of missionaries. He grew up in a chaotic, hunger-stricken China, and hunger was front and center in his mind. In Los Angeles, he operated Cliftons cafeterias, where the policy and motto were Golden Rule Pay for what you wish, or dine free unless delighted. Clinton was forever questing for ways to feed the world for pennies. Ford asked Clinton to investigate the workings of the cafeteria at the county hospital, where Clinton surprise turned up waste and favoritism. This put him in conflict with Shaw, who had once overseen the hospital, and who sicced health inspectors on Clintons cafeterias. Clinton came to serve on a grand jury that balked at digging too deeply into the Shaw administration, so Clinton hired his own investigator and made his own report exposing lucrative and unrelenting corruption virtually top to bottom in city and county government. For this, the miffed grand jury foreman called him Public Enemy Number One. The taxes on his cafeterias were mysteriously hiked by nearly $7,000, and someone stink-bombed them. Finally, in October 1937, a real bomb was set off in his Los Feliz house damage, but no injuries. Three months later, Clintons investigator survived a car bombing. The crusade against Clinton was the handiwork of an LAPD captain acting on orders from the chief, who had ordered an open-ended investigation of Clinton and his fellow reformers. The 1920s and 30s certainly needed civic reformers, but it didnt have a monopoly on them. The earliest of them was a husband-and-wife pair, John Randolph and Dora Haynes. You may have heard their names on some public service announcement, for the foundation they began nearly 120 years ago is still flourishing and giving away money to study, understand and improve the workings of this place. The Haynes family were health refugees to Los Angeles at the turn of the last century. After his brief work at reform in his native Pennsylvania, John Haynes saw his new town and state in the stranglehold grip of the Southern Pacific Railway. Haynes was a physician, and the personal doctor to The Times publisher, Harrison Gray Otis, whose retrograde politics could not have been more different from Haynes. Twice, in the early 1900s and again in 1925, Haynes worked on reforming the city charter. In about 1903, L.A. voted itself the powers of the initiative, referendum and recall, nearly a decade before the state of California did. The citys entrenched powers did not like surrendering a morsel of power to the voting rabble. The Times hollered against it as freak legislation conceived in rottenness. Needless to say, Haynes did no more doctoring at the Chandler house. Sitton describes Haynes civic career in his book, John Randolh Haynes, California Progressive. In the citys 1925 charter changes, Haynes helped to lock in further reforms, and he served on all manner of boards and commissions to build and monitor L.A.s ethical guardrails, and to argue for civil service and tax reforms and public ownership of utilities. Dora Haynes, a daughter of Pennsylvania, hit the ground running in California, working for womens suffrage, which California women got in 1911 , well before most other American women did. Together the Hayneses crafted what is today the oldest independent general purpose foundation in L.A. still fighting for truth, justice and something better than the old Los Angeles way. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Nikki Alcaraz, who was traveling from Tennessee to Orange County when she was reported missing by her family, was "found to be safe" in Northern California on Tuesday, according to law enforcement. (Cheatham County [Tenn.] Sheriff's Office) A woman who left on a cross-country trip from Tennessee and was reported missing by her family after a domestic dispute in New Mexico was found in Northern California on Tuesday, according to law enforcement. Nikki Alcaraz, 33, left her home in Cheatham County, Tenn., with her boyfriend and a dog earlier this month in her black Jeep Wrangler. The couple planned to drive to Alcaraz's relative's home in Orange County, but her family lost contact with her after she was allegedly beaten by her boyfriend, her family told KABC-TV 7 in Los Angeles. For weeks, Alcaraz was out of communication with her family, but she was "found to be safe" in the coastal city of Eureka, Calif., the Redding Police Department announced in a social media post Tuesday afternoon. Her disappearance garnered national attention as her family and law enforcement tracked her movement across the country. Alcaraz told her family that she and her boyfriend, Tyler Stratton, got into a fight at a truck stop near Albuquerque, relatives said. Alcaraz shared photos with her family of bruises on her arms and a black eye, they said. A missing person poster for Nikki Alcaraz. (Cheatham County Sheriff's Office) In New Mexico, a Torrance County sheriff's deputy called to investigate the incident on May 4 noted that Stratton had a bloody nose and Alcaraz had red marks on her arms and face, according to a police report. A witness reported seeing Stratton strike Alcaraz, according to the report. Alcaraz and Stratton appeared intoxicated when the deputy arrived, and Stratton said they were both drinking whiskey and beer, said the deputy. Both declined to press charges, according to the report. The deputy observed blood inside and outside their Jeep, possibly from Stratton's bloody nose, according to the deputy's report. "It was determined that both parties were mutual combatants while traveling down the interstate," the deputy wrote. "The bruise on Ms. Alcaraz's arms came from Mr. Stratton holding her down to avoid being hit." Alcaraz's family told Nashville station WKRN-TV that a friend drove from California to New Mexico to retrieve Alcaraz on May 6, but she refused to leave without Stratton. She subsequently was not answering calls to her cellphone, ratcheting up concern among family members. In her last text message, on May 8, she told her sister that she was in Arizona and planned to continue to Orange County, according to her family. But on Saturday, Alcaraz was seen in a Walmart store in Redding, about 120 miles from the Oregon border, according to the Cheatham County Sheriff's Office. A camera at an EcoATM kiosk captured an image of Alcaraz at the Redding Walmart, where she reportedly sold her phone. In the photo, Alcaraz is standing next to a man identified as Stratton, according to Cheatham County sheriff's officials. The Redding Police Department said Alcaraz was no longer considered a missing person. Alcaraz contacted her sister on Tuesday after she was found by police in Eureka, according to her cousin Lonnie Alcaraz. She was with Stratton and told police she was safe and didn't need help, according to a news release from the Eureka Police Department. Stratton was listed as booked into a Humboldt County Jail shortly after 3:30 p.m., according to jail records. He was arrested on an outstanding warrant out of Tennessee with full extradition for failure to appear on a theft-related offense, according to a news release from the Eureka Police Department. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The signboard of the Ministry of Economy and Finance at Government Complex Sejong / Korea Times file By Yi Whan-woo A steep decline in tax revenues, which shrank by 33.9 trillion won ($25.57 billion) in the first four months of 2023 from a year earlier, is raising concerns over the government's belt-tightening policy. Announced by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Wednesday, the year-on-year decline in tax revenues in the January-April period was the steepest on record. In particular, tax revenues fell by 9.9 trillion in April from a year earlier, also marking the sharpest year-on-year decline for that month. The ministry said tax revenues in the first four months of this year amounted to 134 trillion won, accounting for 33.5 percent of the government's yearly target of 400.5 trillion won for 2023. That is below the average 37.8 percent of annual tax revenues collected by April seen over the past five years. It is also the slowest rate of tax revenue growth since 2000 when the government began to compile relevant data. The shortage in tax revenues comes as the Yoon Suk Yeol administration is opting to ease the tax burden on businesses to help stimulate corporate profits so they will be able to pay more taxes, while the government cuts back on fiscal spending under a broader market-driven economic vision. The policy, however, has not been fruitful. Corporate tax revenue growth remains anemic as businesses struggle to cope with sluggish exports. The amount of corporate taxes collected in the January-April period came to 35.6 trillion won, down 30.8 percent from a year earlier. During the same period, income tax revenues slid 19.9 percent to 35.7 trillion won due to a slump in the housing market. Under the circumstances, a senior ministry official implicitly acknowledged that the government's tax revenue will fall short of projections by saying, "We will newly estimate the tax amount for 2023 by late August or early September." The official still did not comment on the possibility of planning a supplementary budget or restricting budget spending as demanded by the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) and civic groups. "The government's stance apparently suggests it is not flexible about its budget and tax plans, and we're concerned that problems associated with a tax revenue shortage will become more serious," a member of the Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice said. Asking not to be named, the activist said exports are showing no signs of a recovery after declining for the seventh consecutive month as of April. Another civic group, People's Solidarity for Participatory Democracy, urged the Yoon administration to "consider hiking corporate taxes and other taxes that are intended to enrich the haves." It argued that large corporations can afford to pay corporate taxes compared to smaller businesses and the reduced maximum corporate tax under the Yoon government was unnecessary. A 33-year-old Tennessee woman who went missing earlier this month while road-tripping with her boyfriend across the US has made contact with her family. Nikki Alcaraz is now confirmed to be safe, authorities said. She had been travelling in her black Jeep Wrangler with her boyfriend Tyler Stratton and pet dog in Cheatham County to visit family in Orange County, California. Her disappearance had sparked fears of domestic violence and been likened to the case of Gabby Petito, a young woman who was killed by her fiance during a road trip across the US, after the police had pulled the couple over having received reports that Mr Stratton had assaulted Ms Alcaraz. Officers let them go without pressing criminal charges after Mr Stratton claimed he had also been hit. Ms Alcaraz who also goes by Nikki Cunningham, was reportedly spotted in a California Walmart before she made contact with her family. On Tuesday, Redding Police said in a statement: The Redding Police Department has been in contact with the Moriarty, New Mexico Police Department and confirmed Nikki is no longer considered a missing person. Earlier, Ms Alcarazs sister, Toni Alcaraz told WKRN that she hadnt heard from her since she received a text message on 9 May saying she was planning to continue to California. The sister said that she spoke to Ms Alcaraz after the alleged assault and that she was crying and upset. Her eye was already turning black and you could tell she was beat up pretty bad, Toni Alcaraz told the news site. Photos released by the Cheatham County Sheriffs Department showed Ms Alcaraz with a black left eye after the incident. According to an incident report, Mr Stratton claimed he had also been hit, and Torrance County sheriffs deputies observed blood coming from his mouth. Neither Mr Stratton nor Ms Alcaraz wanted to press charges, and she was given a ride to Moriarty. Ms Alcaraz was previously thought to have been last seen on the morning of 6 May at a Super 8 motel in the small town of Moriarty, New Mexico, about 40 miles east of Albuquerque. A license plate reader picked up Ms Alcarazs Jeep near Flagstaff, Arizona earlier this month, but police said her cellphone was out of service and untraceable. Nikki Alcaraz, right, vanished while travelling from Tennessee to California with her boyfriend Tyler Stratton, left (Cheatham County Sheriffs Office) Then a Cheatham County deputy told News 2 that she was seen at a Walmart in Redding, California, on 27 May. A photo released by the county District Attorney General Ray Crouch shows her selling her phone at an ecoATM. In September 2021, Gabby Petitos remains were found in the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming after she disappeared on a road trip with her boyfriend Brian Laundrie. The couple was pulled over in Utah by officers from the Moab Police Department on 12 August after receiving reports that Laundrie had struck Petito. They were allowed to continue separately after Laundrie claimed he had been hit by Petito. An independent review of the domestic assault incident found the officers had made several mistakes, and should have been classified as a domestic assault. Laundrie later shot himself in the head and left a suicide note confessing to killing Petito. Petitos family are suing the Moab Police Department for failing to follow the law and protect her during the traffic stop. On 27, October, 2018, Robert Bowers, then 46, allegedly walked into the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and began shooting at worshippers. He allegedly killed 11 people before he was shot and wounded and surrendered to police. Mr Bowers now faces 63 federal counts, including 11 counts each of obstruction of free exercise of religion resulting in death as well as hate crimes resulting in death. He could face the death penalty if convicted. He has pleaded not guilty. Nearly five years have passed since the shooting, but Mr Bowers' trial is only now kicking off in earnest. The trial began on Tuesday and is expected to last until late July. Robert Bowers In the months leading up the shooting, Mr Bowers was allegedly spewing bigoted and antisemitic vitriol online, investigators say. He allegedly called immigrants "invaders" and posted racist memes, including some that accused Jewish people of being the "enemy of white people." On the day of the shooting he reportedly posted a message to a web forum, saying "I can't stand by and watch my people get slaughtered. Screw your optics, I'm going in." He then allegedly proceeded to murder 11 people at the synagogue. After his arrest, police learned that Mr Bowers had 21 weapons registered to his name. He was otherwise unknown to law enforcement. They then began to review Mr Bowers' online presence, finding an account on Gab a supposedly free speech oriented, right wing social media alternative to the likes of Twitter where he allegedly posted a steady slew of hate. His bio included the phrase "Jews are the children of Satan" and his posts consisted of anti-Jewish slurs and conspiracy theories, according to the New York Times. The conspiracy theories included allegations that Jewish people were smuggling Muslims into the US, and another showing an image of the Auschwitz concentration camp, with the photo doctored to make its infamous gate read "Lies Make Money." Days before the shooting he called then-president Donald Trump a "globalist" often a term carrying antisemitic implications and said "there is no #MAGA as long as there is a k*** infestation." The omitted word is a racial slur used against Jewish people. The Tree of Life Synagogue (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Police claim that after being shot and wounded at the synagogue, Mr Bowers said: These people are committing genocide on my people. I just want to kill Jews. His defence attempted to have that quotation barred from consideration at his trial, arguing he made the statement before he was read his Miranda warning. A judge denied the motion. The alleged gunman worked as a trucker before the shooting. Prosecutors are arguing that hate drove Mr Bowers' alleged attack on the synagogue. The depths of the defendants malice and hate can only be proven in the broken bodies of those killed, and through his hateful words, Assistant US Attorney Soo C Song said during her opening statement. Prosecutors claimed in an earlier filing that Mr Bowers allegedly harbored deep, murderous animosity towards all Jewish people. The defence after unsuccessfully arguing against the use of Mr Bowers' statements to police and for a change of venue have filed a notice of mental infirmity again his potential sentencing, according to court records. They claim Mr Bowers has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and epilepsy. His attorneys have also offered a plea deal in exchange for the removal of the death penalty. At least three people, including two children, were killed in a Russian missile attack on Kyiv in the early hours today, officials said. Debris of enemy rockets fell on the polyclinic in Desnyan district. The windows in the high-rise building were also blown out, Kyiv mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said. Another 14 were injured, out of which nine people needed hospital treatment. Emergency crews have extinguished fires caused by falling debris at the sites of the strikes. Officials said Kyivs air defences had intercepted all incoming projectiles in the overnight attack, and that the deaths and injuries were caused by falling debris. This comes after the Russian defence ministry claimed its forces had destroyed what it described as Ukraines last warship two days ago in the port of Odesa in a missile strike. Oleh Chalyk, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian navy, said he would not respond to any such claims made by Russia.The Ukrainian navy will not disclose any information about losses during the war, he added. Key Points Russia says it has destroyed Ukraines last warship Russia wont negotiate while trying to win Ukraine war, says EUs Borrell One killed and four injured in attacks on Kyiv Drones hit several buildings in Moscow mayor Russia's nuclear chief: we appreciate IAEA head's work to protect Zaporizhzhia plant 09:11 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain The head of Russias state nuclear company Rosatom said on Thursday that he appreciates the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency Chief Rafael Grossi to protect the Zaporizhzhia plant, TASS reported. Interfax quoted the Rosatom boss as saying that Russia was following the principles of Grossis safety plan for the Zaporizhzhia plant, which has been under Russian control since March 2022, but which remains near the frontline in Ukraine. Girl and her mother among three killed in Russian strike on Kyiv 08:42 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain An 11-year-old girl, her mother and another woman were killed in a Russian missile strike on Kyiv early on Thursday, Ukrainian officials said. Ukraines air force said air defences shot down all 10 ballistic and Iskander cruise missiles launched from Russias Bryansk region in the 18th attack on the capital since the start of May. But falling missile debris often causes damage during such attacks. Police said a medical clinic, kindergarten, residential buildings and cars were damaged, and the Kyiv military administration said three people were killed and 10 hurt. The city authorities did not say how they were killed but police said the victims included the 11-year-old girl and her mother. It is international childrens day. At night, Russia again killed a child in Kyiv, said Andriy Yermak, chief of President Volodymyr Zelenskiys office. Since 2014, the terrorist country has been committing crimes against little Ukrainians. From February 24, 2022, no one has any doubts - this is a real genocide. Russia has denied targeting civilians or committing war crimes but its forces have caused devastation in Ukrainian cities and repeatedly hit residential areas since its full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2022. The Kyiv military administration reported damage in the Desnyanskyi region on the capitals eastern outskirts as well as Dniprovkskyi district, closer to the centre. Photographs posted on the Kyiv authorities website showed windows blown out in a clinic and nearby apartment buildings. Other photos posted on social media showed rescue teams attending to residents in buildings, with shattered building materials strewn about on the street. Air raid alerts in Kyiv and in most of eastern Ukraine were in effect for about an hour.An 11-year-old girl, her mother and another woman were killed in a Russian missile strike on Kyiv early on Thursday, Ukrainian officials said. Ukraines air force said air defences shot down all 10 ballistic and Iskander cruise missiles launched from Russias Bryansk region in the 18th attack on the capital since the start of May. But falling missile debris often causes damage during such attacks. Police said a medical clinic, kindergarten, residential buildings and cars were damaged, and the Kyiv military administration said three people were killed and 10 hurt. The city authorities did not say how they were killed but police said the victims included the 11-year-old girl and her mother. It is international childrens day. At night, Russia again killed a child in Kyiv, said Andriy Yermak, chief of President Volodymyr Zelenskiys office. Since 2014, the terrorist country has been committing crimes against little Ukrainians. From February 24, 2022, no one has any doubts - this is a real genocide. Local residents react as they look at the body of a woman who died as a result of a downed missile explosion outside a polyclinic during the Russian attack on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, (AFP via Getty Images) Russian bombardment in Kyiv kills three 08:17 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain Russian forces began June with a fresh aerial bombardment of Kyiv on Thursday, killing at least three people and wounding others, authorities said. Following up on a reported 17 attacks on the Ukrainian capital in May, mostly using drones, Russian forces hit the capital in the early morning, damaging apartment buildings and a medical clinic. Two of the dead were children, according to city officials. The toll of injured fluctuated in preliminary reports, but the casualties still were the most from one attack in the past month. After a woman was killed watching an aerial attack from her balcony earlier this week, Kyiv authorities urged residents to stay in shelters or other safe locations. Ukraines air defences have become increasingly effective at intercepting Russian drones and missiles, but in some cases the resulting debris causes fires and injuries in buildings and on the ground. Preliminary indications were that Kyivs air defences intercepted all incoming weapons early on Thursday, and that the latest deaths and injuries were caused by falling debris. On Wednesday, Russian forces carried out three aerial attacks over the south of Kherson region, along with missile and heavy artillery strikes on other parts of the region. Putins war comes home as Moscow faces large-scale drone attack 07:55 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain The Kremlin has lashed out at Kyiv in the wake of Moscow being targeted by a large-scale drone attack for the first time since its invasion of Ukraine began. The incident exposes the extent to which Russian president Vladimir Putins decision to invade Ukraine 15 months ago has come home to roost. Residents of some of the capitals most exclusive neighbourhoods woke to the sound of explosions as Moscow and its outskirts came under attack from the drones, which may have numbered close to 30. The Russian president appeared on state television to decry the attack, blaming Kyiv for trying to intimidate Russia, Russian citizens, and claiming that the attacks were focused on residential buildings. Mr Putin also admitted that, while Moscows air defence had worked in a satisfactory way, it was clear that our task is to plug the gaps in the system. Putins war comes home as Moscow faces large-scale drone attack Belgorod governor says eight wounded by Ukrainian shelling 07:38 , Maryam Zakir-Hussain Eight people were wounded by overnight shelling that continued into the morning in the Russian town of Shebekino that damaged multiple buildings, the governor of the local Belgorod region said on Thursday. In a video posted on Telegram, governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said: In Shebekino district, there is ongoing shelling by the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Eight people have been wounded. There are no dead. He said that local authorities would evacuate civilians as soon as the shelling was over. Of course, the lives of civilians, of the population is under threat. Primarily in Shebekino and in the surrounding villages, he added. The Belgorod region, which borders Ukraine Kharkiv region, has come under repeated attack from Kyivs territory in recent months. In May, Ukrainian forces briefly seized a number of border settlements before retreating back across the frontier. (Belgorod governor via Reuters) Ukraine closer to Nato accession, Russia cant veto Stoltenberg 07:05 , Arpan Rai Nato secretary general Jens Stoltenberg has confirmed a mutual agreement among all Nato allies that Ukraine will become a member of the alliance. All allies agree that Moscow does not have a veto against Nato enlargement, Mr Stoltenberg told reporters ahead of an informal meeting of Nato foreign affairs ministers. We are moving, allies agree that Ukraine will become a member, he said, adding that Nato is helping Ukraine move closer to its membership as the member nations are confident on consensus for moving forward on its accession. At least 10 short-range ballistic missiles downed over Kyiv, says Ukraine 06:15 , Arpan Rai Ukraines air defence have shot down at least 10 Iskander missiles, the short-range ballistic missiles being deployed by Russia in overnight attacks, officials said. All Russian aerial targets were shot down during the attack carried out in early hours, according to the preliminary information from Ukraines General Staff, reported The Kyiv Independent. Russian forces hit the capital in the early morning with ground-launched missiles in continuation with reported 17 drone and missile attacks on the Ukrainian capital in May. Shelling injures five in Belgorod, says Russia 06:05 , Arpan Rai Five people were left injured in overnight shelling in the Russian town of Shebekino that damaged multiple buildings, a regional governor said today. Two people were hospitalised as a result of the Ukrainian rocket strike on Shebekino, Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said. We are also receiving calls about multiple cases of damage to private residences and apartment blocks, some have had their walls pierced by shells, he said. US does not know who is responsible for Russia drone attack, says White House 05:16 , Arpan Rai The Biden administration does not know who is responsible for a drone attack in Moscow this week, said the White House national security spokesperson John Kirby. The US does not have specific information that tells us who is responsible, Mr Kirby said, adding that the US did not plan to investigate. Russian missiles kill two children in Kyiv 04:08 , Arpan Rai At least three people, including two children, were killed in a Russian missile attack on Kyiv in the early hours today, officials said. The Russian missile struck the Desnyanskyi region on the capitals eastern outskirts as well as Dniprovkskyi district, closer to the centre, the Kyiv military administration said. Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko said the missile hit a medical clinic and of the total 14 injured, nine people needed hospital treatment. Emergency crews had extinguished fires caused by falling debris near the sites of the strikes. Visuals of the attack showed windows blown out in the clinic and in nearby apartment buildings with shattered building debris strewn on the street. The impact was from a shot-down cruise or ballistic missiles, the city officials said. This is the 18th attack on the capital this month. Authorities claim 27,000 Ukrainian civilians are being held on Russian soil 03:00 , Lucy Skoulding Ukraine has claimed that 27,000 Ukrainian civilians are being held on Russian soil. Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraines commissioner for human rights said:According to our data, more than 27,000 civilian hostages are being held by the Russian Federation. This is a huge number of our citizens who are actually held captive by the Russians. Asked in a press conference whether there is any news on UNIAN news agency journalist Dmytro Khilyuk, who was captured by the Russians, it was revealed there has been no progress. The ombudsman said: Unfortunately, he has not returned to Ukraine yet. I will not say that we will return him in the near future. I am used to saying real things. Germany shuts 4 out of 5 Russian consulates 02:00 , Lucy Skoulding Russia has responded to what it called a provocative move from Germany to shut four out of five of its consulates by revoking the licences. It comes after Russia made an announcement that it was going to limit the number of German officials who could be in Russia to 350. According to Reuters, the foreign ministry of Russia said in a statement: There can be no doubt in Berlin that these ill-considered, provocative actions will not go unanswered by us. Only 500 residents left in Bakhmut 01:00 , Lucy Skoulding There are only around 500 people left living in Bakhmut, according to the citys mayor Oleksii Reva. This is compared with the 70,000 people who lived in the eastern Ukrainian city before the war with Russia. Bakhmut has been subjected to heavy fighting over the last year, with both Ukraine and Russia claiming they have control of the city. Bakhmut has been subjected to heavy fighting in the last year (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Dutch prime minister says EU should sanction Russians involved in child abductions Thursday 1 June 2023 00:00 , Lucy Skoulding The EU is looking into broadening its sanctions against Russia so they target Russians involved in child abductions from Ukraine. Dutch prime minsiter Mark Rutte said: The 11th package of sanctions we are working on includes the option to go after those responsible for child abductions. Speaking in a joint conference at The Hague with Polish prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki, he added: Thats something we are working on. The other point of focus is sanction circumvention. Making it possible to go after the people responsible. Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte spoke in a news conference about widening sanctions against Russia (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Wednesday 31 May 2023 23:00 , Natalie Crockett An Iraqi citizen fighting with Russias Wagner mercenary group was killed in Ukraine last month, Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin said on Wednesday. Abbas Abuthar Witwit, the first confirmed case of a Middle East native dying in the conflict, died on April 7, a day after arriving at a Wagner hospital in the Russian-controlled, eastern Ukrainian city of Luhansk, the RIA FAN news site earlier reported. Much of the fighting for Bakhmut was done by convict fighters, recruited by Wagner from prisons on the promise of a pardon if they survived six months at the front in Ukraine. Prigozhin told news agency Reuters that Witwit, who he recruited from prison, was wounded in Bakhmut before he died. Prigozhin previously said he had lost 20,000 of his men in the conflict as a whole. Witwit was injured while fighting in Bakhmut, Wagner chief says (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Macron says war crimes trial may have to take back seat as Putin negotiations are priority Wednesday 31 May 2023 22:00 , Lucy Skoulding Emmanuel Macron says negotiations with Vladimir Putin over the war in Ukraine may have to take priority over war crimes charges against him. The French President says it might not be possible to send Putin for a war crimes trial at The Hague because he is the only person the west can negotiate with to end the war. Delivering a speech in which he tackled a wide range of issues at the EU leaders conference in Moldova, Macron said: If in a few months to come we have a window for negotiations, the question will be arbitrage between a trial and a negotiation, and you have to negotiate with the leaders you have de facto, and I think negotiations will be a priority You can put yourself in a position where you say: I want you to go jail but you are the only one I can negotiate with. But President Macron also said that evidence against Russia and its leaders should be gathered and assembled in the meantime. President Macron has shared some frank remarks about negotiations with Putin (AFP via Getty Images) French President urges NATO to provide Israel-like security to Ukraine Wednesday 31 May 2023 21:00 , Lucy Skoulding Frances President Emmanuel Macron has urged NATO to provide Ukraine withtangible and credible security as it continues to battle Russia. Speaking at the GLOBSEC Bratislava Global Security Forum, President Macron said: We have to build something between the security provided to Israel and full-fledged membership. He added that Ukraine needed to be helped with all means possible because it is today protecting Europe. De Paris a Bratislava. Une meme famille, lUnion europeenne. Z Pariza do Bratislavy. Jedna rodina, Europska unia. pic.twitter.com/bNESKHYcUL Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) May 31, 2023 Watch: Russian soldiers flee after tank struck by Ukrainian drone Wednesday 31 May 2023 20:00 , Martha Mchardy Latest pictures from Russia Wednesday 31 May 2023 19:30 , Martha Mchardy A specialist inspects the damaged facade of a multi-storey apartment building after a reported drone attack in Moscow (AFP via Getty Images) The aftermath of Ukrainian shelling in the border town of Shebekino, Belgorod region, (EPA) Latest pictures from Ukraine Wednesday 31 May 2023 19:00 , Martha Mchardy A destroyed facility located on the premises of a poultry farm following recent shelling in the course of Russia-Ukraine conflict in the village of Karpaty in the Luhansk region (REUTERS) Ukrainian troops near the front line city of Bakhmut, Donetsk region, (REUTERS) A destroyed facility located on the premises of a poultry farm following recent shelling in the course of Russia-Ukraine conflict in the village of Karpaty in the Luhansk region (REUTERS) ICYMI: New US aid package for Ukraine will total about $300 million and include munitions for drones Wednesday 31 May 2023 18:30 , Martha Mchardy A U.S. military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be announced this week will total up to $300 million and will include additional munitions for drones, U.S. officials said Tuesday. The drone ammunition comes after new attacks by unmanned aircraft targeted Moscow. There has been no suggestion that U.S.-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow, and U.S. officials have repeatedly said that Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. The Kremlin blamed Kyiv for Tuesdays attack, but Ukrainian officials had no direct comment. But the new aid package comes at a tense moment in the war. The latest drone attack on Moscow follows Russias seizure of the eastern Ukrainian city Bakhmut after a nine-month battle that killed tens of thousands of people. Ukraine is also showing signs that its long-awaited spring counteroffensive may already be underway. Read the full story: New US aid package for Ukraine will total about $300 million and include munitions for drones Fiancee of Brit who died helping refugees in Ukraine in desperate plea to bring his body back Wednesday 31 May 2023 18:00 , Martha Mchardy The fiancee of a former British soldier who was killed in a car crash in Ukraine has told how she had made a wedding ring on the day she was told of his death. Louise Lathbury has set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for repatriating Julian Thorns body from the war-torn nation, hoping to raise 15,000. Ms Lathbury, originally from Berkshire, said Mr Thorns mother and grandfather were also desperate to bring him back to the UK, saying it would mean everything to bring him back whole. Josh Payne reports: Fiancee of Brit who died helping refugees in Ukraine in plea to bring his body back Russias former president says UK officials are legitimate military targets Wednesday 31 May 2023 17:30 , Martha Mchardy British public officials are a legitimate military target because of the UKs support for Ukraine, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has warned. Mr Medvedev, deputy chairman of Vladimir Putins security council, claimed the UKs support for Kyiv amounted to an undeclared war against Russia. His comments came after Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said Ukraine had the right to project force beyond its borders into Russia to resist Mr Putins invasion. David Hughes reports: Russias former president says UK officials are legitimate military targets Voices: The drone attack on Moscow is only the beginning Wednesday 31 May 2023 17:00 , Martha Mchardy British and US officials acknowledge privately that Ukraine has carried out secret cross-border operations with rising success, writes Kim Sengupta. Why Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory are only the beginning | Kim Sengupta Germany orders Russia to close 4 out of its 5 consulates in tit-for-tat move Wednesday 31 May 2023 16:30 , Martha Mchardy The German government said Wednesday that it has told Russia to close four out of its five consulates general in Germany in a tit-for-tat move after Moscow set a limit for the number of staff at the German Embassy and related bodies in Russia. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Christofer Burger told reporters in Berlin that the measure was intended to create a parity of personnel and structures between the two countries. Russia has consulates in Bonn, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Leipzig and Munich, with Moscow deciding which four they will close and which one they will keep open. Read the full story: Germany orders Russia to close 4 out of its 5 consulates in tit-for-tat move Three injured, including two children, after shelling in Kherson Wednesday 31 May 2023 16:00 , Martha Mchardy Three people, including two children, were injured after shelling in the Ukrainian city of Kherson today. A three-year-old girl was injured, along with another child whose age who not specified, the Kyiv Independent reported, citing Kherson governor Oleksandr Prokudin. According to reports, the three-year-old sustained an injury to the head from glass shards and has been hospitalised. A 30-year-old man also sustained injuries as a result of shelling, but the extent of his injuries was not revealed. More than 27,000 Ukrainian civilians being held on Russian territory - Dmytro Lubinets Wednesday 31 May 2023 15:43 , Martha Mchardy More than 27,000 Ukrainian civilians are being held on Russian territory, a Ukrainian human rights chief has said. The Ukrainian parliament commissioner for human rights Dmytro Lubinets said: According to our data, more than 27 thousand civilian hostages are being held by the Russian Federation. This is a huge number of our citizens who are actually held captive by the Russians, Ukrinform reported. Russia says it has destroyed Ukraines last warship Wednesday 31 May 2023 14:41 , Matt Mathers Russias defence ministry claimed on Wednesday that its forces had destroyed what it described as Ukraines "last warship" two days ago in the port of Odesa in a missile strike. Ukraines navy declined to comment. "The last warship of the Ukrainian navy, the Yuriy Olefirenko, was destroyed at a warship mooring in the port of Odesa," defence ministry Spokesman Igor Konashenkov said in a daily briefing on the war. He said the vessel had been hit with "high-precision weapons" - a phrase he uses to mean missiles - on May 29, but gave no further details. Oleh Chalyk, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian navy, said he would not respond to any assertions made by Russia. The Ukrainian navy will not disclose any information about losses during the war, he added. Germany to shut down Russian consulates in tit-for-tat move Wednesday 31 May 2023 13:49 , Matt Mathers The German government on Wednesday said it would shut down four out of five Russian consulates in the country by revoking their licences, a tit-for-tat move after Moscows decision to limit the number of German officials in Russia to 350. The Russian government would be still be allowed to operate its embassy in Berlin and one general consulate but Germany expects the rest to cease operations by the end of the year, the foreign ministry said. At the same time, Germany will close its own consulates in Kaliningrad, Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk, leaving only the German embassy in Moscow and the consulate in St Petersburg in operation. The move by Berlin presents a sharp downgrading of bilateral ties amid a wider collapse in relations since Russias invasion of Ukraine last year. Germanys foreign ministry accused Moscow of escalating tensions by imposing limits on the number of officials allowed to work in Russia. "This unjustified decision is forcing the federal government to make very significant cuts in all areas of its presence in Russia," a spokesperson for the foreign ministry said on Wednesday. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said a statement would be issued on the closures of the consulates, according to Russian news agencies. Prigozhin asks prosecutors to investigate crimes by top Russian defence official Wednesday 31 May 2023 13:21 , Matt Mathers Russias most powerful mercenary, Yevgeny Prigozhin, said on Wednesday that he had asked prosecutors to investigate "crimes" committed by senior Russian defence officials before and during Moscows military campaign in Ukraine. Prigozhin has for months openly feuded with Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu and other top officials, who he has accused of sabotaging Russias military via incompetence. Last week he launched a blistering attack on Vladimir Putin s invasion strategy, claiming that Russia could face a revolution similar to 1917 and lose the war in Ukraine unless changes are made by Kremlin leadership. Yevgeny Prigozhin and Vladimir Putin in 2010 (Sputnik/AFP/Getty) New US aid package for Ukraine will total about $300 million and include munitions for drones Wednesday 31 May 2023 13:00 , Matt Mathers A US military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be announced this week will total up to $300 million and will include additional munitions for drones, US officials said yesterday. The drone ammunition comes after new attacks by unmanned aircraft targeted Moscow. There has been no suggestion that US-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow, and US officials have repeatedly said that Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. The Kremlin blamed Kyiv for Tuesdays attack, but Ukrainian officials had no direct comment. But the new aid package comes at a tense moment in the war. Lolita Baldor and Matthew Lee report: New US aid package for Ukraine will total about $300 million and include munitions for drones Drones, bombs and raids: Why Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory are only the beginning Wednesday 31 May 2023 12:35 , Matt Mathers British and US officials acknowledge privately that Ukraine has carried out secret cross-border operations with rising success, writes Kim Sengupta. Read Kims full piece here: Why Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory are only the beginning | Kim Sengupta Moscow's air defences have room for improvement - Kremlin Wednesday 31 May 2023 12:06 , Matt Mathers The Kremlin said on Wednesday Moscows air defences were working effectively but had room for improvement, a day after Russia accused Ukraine of conducting its biggest ever drone strike on the Russian capital. Work will continue on improving Moscows air defences, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. The comments come a day after several drone attacks on the Russian capital that left two people hurt and caused minor damage to buildings. Ukraine denied direct involvement in the strikes. ICYMI: Ukraine has right to project force beyond its borders, says James Cleverly Wednesday 31 May 2023 11:13 , Matt Mathers Ukraine has the right to project force beyond its own borders for self-defence, the UKs Foreign Secretary has said after reports of a drone attack on Moscow. James Cleverlys comments came after he gave a speech in Estonia in which he spoke about deterring Russian President Vladimir Putins aggression by strengthening our collective security, and made the case for Sweden to swiftly join Nato. Martina Bet reports: Ukraine has right to project force beyond its borders, says James Cleverly Europe's biggest gas supplier says all clear from pipeline security checks Wednesday 31 May 2023 10:46 , Matt Mathers Inspections of Norways offshore gas pipelines after the Nord Stream blasts found nothing suspicious, an executive at energy major Equinor has said, in the first official word on the security sweep. However, risks remain after last years still-unexplained explosions at the Nord Stream pipelines built to carry Russian gas to Germany via the Baltic Sea, warned Jannicke Nilsson, who manages security for Equinor. Europes largest gas supplier after a drop in Russian flows last year, Equinor also acts as technical service provider for offshore pipelines operator Gassco. It launched the inspections shortly after the explosions on Sept. 26. "We did find the things that we wanted to check, and when we checked it, it was OK," Jannicke Nilsson, Equinors executive in charge of security, safety and sustainability, said in an interview. The company said inspections had been conducted to identify anything out of the ordinary, like damages, foreign objects or any changes to how the pipelines are covered on the seabed. Moscow drone attacks will embarrass Kremlin - former air vice martial Wednesday 31 May 2023 10:09 , Matt Mathers Recent drone attacks in Moscow will have embarrassed the Kremlin, a retired air vice marshall has said. Sean Bell told Times Radio the strikes, denied by Ukraine, will also have unsettled the population in Russias capital. The drone attacks, which targeted wealthy areas of Moscow - including an suburb where president Putin has a residence - hurt two people and caused minor damage to buildings, Russia said. More comments from Mr Bell below: "It will certainly unsettle the population in Moscow and embarrass the Kremlin." The Russian people may not fall for 'Putin's lies' as its war in Ukraine arrives in Moscow, says Sean Bell, retired Air Vice Marshall. @JPonPolitics pic.twitter.com/Xek9ecgscB Times Radio (@TimesRadio) May 30, 2023 Russias former president says UK officials are legitimate military targets Wednesday 31 May 2023 09:40 , Matt Mathers British public officials are a legitimate military target because of the UKs support for Ukraine, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has warned. Mr Medvedev, deputy chairman of Vladimir Putins security council, claimed the UKs support for Kyiv amounted to an undeclared war against Russia. His comments came after foreign secretary James Cleverly said Ukraine had the right to project force beyond its borders into Russia to resist Mr Putins invasion. Full report: Russias former president says UK officials are legitimate military targets Russia accuses Washington of encouraging Ukraine in its attacks Wednesday 31 May 2023 09:05 , Matt Mathers Washington is encouraging Kyiv by publicly ignoring the drone attack that struck several districts of Moscow on Tuesday, Russias envoy to the United States said on Wednesday, after president Vladimir Putin blamed Ukraine for the strikes. The White House said it did not support attacks inside of Russia and that it was still gathering information on the incident, which Putin called an attempt to scare and provoke Moscow. "What are these attempts to hide behind the phrase that they are gathering information?" Anatoly Antonov, the ambassador, said in remarks published on the Telegram messaging channel. "This is an encouragement for Ukrainian terrorists." Putin on Tuesday cast the assault, which brought the 15-month war in Ukraine to the heart of Russia, as a terrorist act. Ukraine also accuses Russia of terrorism for its bombing of Ukrainian civilians, allegations Moscow denies. A Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in the drone attack on Moscow, but said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. Anatoly Antonov (Getty) Russias Medvedev: UK officials helping Ukraine war are legitimate target' Wednesday 31 May 2023 08:30 , Matt Mathers Russian Security Council deputy chairman Dmitry Medvedev said on Wednesday that Britain was Moscows "eternal enemy" and that any British officials who facilitated the war in Ukraine could be considered legitimate military targets. Medvedev, responding to British foreign secretary James Cleverlys remark that Ukraine had a right to project force beyond its own borders, said Britains "goofy officials" should remember that Britain could be "qualified as being at war". "The UK acts as Ukraines ally providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto is leading an undeclared war against Russia," Medvedev said on Twitter. "That being the case, any of its public officials (either military, or civil, who facilitate the war) can be considered as a legitimate military target." The UKs Foreign Secretary Cleverly has stated that Ukraine has the legitimate right to project force beyond its borders to undermine Russias ability to project force into Ukraine itself. According to him, legitimate military targets beyond Ukraines border are part of its Dmitry Medvedev (@MedvedevRussiaE) May 31, 2023 Ukraine drone attack sparks fire at oil refinery in southern Russia - Russia Wednesday 31 May 2023 08:00 , Matt Mathers A Ukrainian drone sparked a fire at an oil refinery in southern Russia and shelling hit a Russian town close to the border for the third time in a week, damaging buildings and setting vehicles ablaze, Russian officials said on Wednesday. A day after Russia accused Ukraine of sending drones to attack buildings in Moscow, the governor of Russias Krasnodar region said a drone was the likely cause of a fire that broke out at the Afipsky oil refinery. Well have more on this story as it comes in. Five dead in Ukraine shelling of Luhansk village - Moscow-installed centre Wednesday 31 May 2023 07:30 , Matt Mathers Five people were killed and 19 wounded in Ukrainian shelling of a village in the Russian-controlled east Ukrainian region of Luhansk, a Moscow-installed coordination centre said on Wednesday. The centre said on the Telegram messaging service that Ukrainian forces had used HIMARS rocket launchers to attack a poultry farm in the village of Karpaty. The claim could not be immediately independently verified. Moscow controls nearly all of the Luhansk region in Ukraine. There was no immediate response from Ukraine, but Kyiv almost never publicly claims responsibility for attacks in Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine or in Russia. Both sides deny targeting civilians in the 15-month long war that Russia launched in February 2022. Russia seeing little success in countering Ukraines improved air defences, says UK MoD Wednesday 31 May 2023 07:07 , Arpan Rai Russia has increasingly ceded the initiative in the conflict and is reacting to Ukrainian action rather than actively progressing towards its own war aims since the start of this month, the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) said today. It noted that Russia has launched 20 nights of one-way-attack uncrewed aerial vehicle and cruise missile attacks deep inside Ukraine this month. Russia has had little success in its likely aims of neutralising Ukraines improved air defences and destroying Ukrainian counter-attack forces. On the ground, it has redeployed security forces to react to partisan attacks inside western Russia, the ministry said. It added that, operationally, Russian commanders are likely attempting to generate reserve forces and position them where they believe a Ukrainian counter-attack will occur. However, this has probably been undermined by uncommitted forces instead being sent to fill gaps in the front line around Bakhmut, the ministry said. USs new package worth $300m for Ukraine includes munitions for drones Wednesday 31 May 2023 06:42 , Arpan Rai A US military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be announced today will total up to $300m (242m) and will include additional munitions for drones, officials said. The drone ammunition comes after new attacks by unmanned aircraft targeted Moscow, which the Kremlin has blamed on Kyiv. There has been no suggestion that US-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow. Additionally, the US officials have repeatedly said that Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. The newest package will be munitions for Patriot missile batteries and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), Stinger missiles for the Avenger system, mine-clearing equipment, anti-armour rounds, unguided Zuni aircraft rockets, night vision goggles, and about 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition, said the US officials. Read the full story here: New US aid package for Ukraine will total about $300 million and include munitions for drones Russia and Ukraine not willing to protect nuclear plant, fail to align on UN agencys plan Wednesday 31 May 2023 05:43 , Arpan Rai Neither Russia nor Ukraine are committing to respect five principles laid out by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi to try to safeguard Ukraines Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The situation at Zaporizhzhia is extremely fragile and dangerous, the UN nuclear watchdogs chief said, adding that military activities continue in the region and may well increase very considerably in the near future. Mr Grossi said that the he has tried for months to craft an agreement to reduce the risk of a catastrophic nuclear accident from military activity like shelling at Europes biggest nuclear power plant. His five principles included that there should be no attack on or from the plant and that no heavy weapons such as multiple rocket launchers, artillery systems and munitions, and tanks or military personnel be housed there. Mr Grossi also called for off-site power to the plant to remain available and secure; for all its essential systems to be protected from attacks or sabotage; and for no actions that undermine these principles. Four killed, 16 injured in shelling in Luhansk, says Russia-backed officials Wednesday 31 May 2023 05:24 , Arpan Rai At least four people were killed and 16 injured in shelling by Ukraine in Luhansk regions Karpaty village, a Moscow-installed local coordination centre said today. The shelling struck a poultry farm in the village, the centre said. Russia accuses Washington of encouraging Ukrainian terrorists Wednesday 31 May 2023 04:49 , Arpan Rai Russias envoy to the US has blamed Washington for encouraging Kyiv by publicly ignoring the drone attacks on parts of Moscow. What are these attempts to hide behind the phrase that they are gathering information? Anatoly Antonov, the Russian ambassador to the US, said in remarks published on Telegram. This is an encouragement for Ukrainian terrorists. The White House said it was still gathering information yesterday on the incidents but added that it did not support attacks inside of Russia. While a Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in the drone attack on Moscow, he said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. Multiple drones attack Russias Krasnodar oil refinery Wednesday 31 May 2023 04:21 , Arpan Rai Russias envoy to the US has blamed Washington for encouraging Kyiv by publicly ignoring the drone attacks on parts of Moscow. What are these attempts to hide behind the phrase that they are gathering information? Anatoly Antonov, the Russian ambassador to the US, said in remarks published on Telegram. This is an encouragement for Ukrainian terrorists. The White House said it was still gathering information yesterday on the incidents but added that it did not support attacks inside of Russia. While a Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in the drone attack on Moscow, he said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. Russia puts top Ukrainian generals on wanted list Wednesday 31 May 2023 02:01 , Laura Sharman Russias interior ministry has put two of Ukraines top generals on a wanted list, the state-run RIA news agency said on Tuesday. On the list is Commander in Chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi and Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander of Ukraines ground forces. The articles they are wanted under have not been specified, RIA reported, citing the ministrys wanted person database. Deputy Ukrainian defence minister Hanna Maliar dismissed the listings as a failed attempt to demoralise pro-Kyiv forces. Putting psychological pressure on commanders who are fighting against an enemy that significantly outnumbers them in terms of personnel and weaponry is pointless, she wrote in a Telegram post. No agreement on protecting Russian-held Ukrainian nuclear plant Wednesday 31 May 2023 01:02 , Laura Sharman Ukraine and Russia have been urged to safeguard a nuclear power plant in Ukraine, suggesting no agreement is in place to protect it. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi asked both countries to respect five principles to safeguard Ukraines Zaporizhzhia plant. Grossi has tried for months to craft an agreement to reduce the risk of a catastrophic nuclear accident from military activity like shelling at Europes biggest nuclear power plant, which is in southern Ukraine and has been occupied by Russia for more than a year. His five principles included that there should be no attack on or from the plant and that no heavy weapons such as multiple rocket launchers, artillery systems and munitions, and tanks or military personnel be housed there. Then-President Donald Trump is seen with Kayleigh McEnany on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020. (Alex Brandon/AP) Former President Trump slammed his onetime press secretary Kayleigh McEnany on Tuesday, accusing her of providing the wrong poll numbers during an appearance on Fox News. Kayleigh Milktoast McEnany just gave out the wrong poll numbers on FoxNews. I am 34 points up on DeSanctimonious, not 25 up, Trump said in a Truth Social post, using his nickname for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R). While 25 is great, its not 34, he added. She knew the number was corrected upwards by the group that did the poll. The RINOS & Globalists can have her. FoxNews should only use REAL Stars!!! McEnany, who is now a co-host of Fox News Outnumbered, told host Jesse Waters on Tuesday night that polling in Iowa showed DeSantis closing the gap on the former president, after the Florida governor formally announced his bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination last week. It was not immediately clear which poll Trump and McEnany were referencing. A recent survey from Emerson College Polling showed the former president leading DeSantis by 42 points among Iowa voters. DeSantis rallied supporters outside of Des Moines on Tuesday, as he kicked off a four-day campaign swing through Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina. Trump is set to arrive in the Hawkeye State later this week. The Hill has reached out to Fox News for comment. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of terrorist activity after Moscow was hit with a drone attack for the first time since the war in the besieged country began. The Russian president accused Ukraine, which has denied any involvement in the drone attack, of choosing the path of attempting to intimidate Russia, Russian citizens and attacks on residential buildings. Drones hit several buildings in Moscow, forcing some people to evacuate their homes after Russia launched its third attack on Kyiv in 24 hours. Two people sought medical assistance following the drone attack on the Russian capital, which president Putin has claimed was aimed at civilian tragets, but none were seriously injured, mayor Sergei Sobyanin said. Moscow blamed Ukraine for the attack, which came after Russian air strikes hit Kyiv overnight in the third attack on the Ukrainian capital in 24 hours, which killed one person and injured 11. Russias defence ministry said its forces carried out strikes on Ukrainian decision-making centres in Ukraine. Key Points Russia wont negotiate while trying to win Ukraine war, says EUs Borrell One killed and four injured in attacks on Kyiv Drones hit several buildings in Moscow mayor Russia fires drones on Kyiv for third night in a row Russia deploys units in Bakhmut as Wagner pulls out US Patriots giving Ukraine 100% interception rate, says Zelensky Ukraine drone attack sparks fire at oil refinery in southern Russia - Russia 08:00 , Matt Mathers A Ukrainian drone sparked a fire at an oil refinery in southern Russia and shelling hit a Russian town close to the border for the third time in a week, damaging buildings and setting vehicles ablaze, Russian officials said on Wednesday. A day after Russia accused Ukraine of sending drones to attack buildings in Moscow, the governor of Russias Krasnodar region said a drone was the likely cause of a fire that broke out at the Afipsky oil refinery. Well have more on this story as it comes in. Russia accuses Washington of encouraging Ukraine in its attacks 09:05 , Matt Mathers Washington is encouraging Kyiv by publicly ignoring the drone attack that struck several districts of Moscow on Tuesday, Russias envoy to the United States said on Wednesday, after president Vladimir Putin blamed Ukraine for the strikes. The White House said it did not support attacks inside of Russia and that it was still gathering information on the incident, which Putin called an attempt to scare and provoke Moscow. "What are these attempts to hide behind the phrase that they are gathering information?" Anatoly Antonov, the ambassador, said in remarks published on the Telegram messaging channel. "This is an encouragement for Ukrainian terrorists." Putin on Tuesday cast the assault, which brought the 15-month war in Ukraine to the heart of Russia, as a terrorist act. Ukraine also accuses Russia of terrorism for its bombing of Ukrainian civilians, allegations Moscow denies. A Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in the drone attack on Moscow, but said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. Anatoly Antonov (Getty) Russias Medvedev: UK officials helping Ukraine war are legitimate target 08:30 , Matt Mathers Russian Security Council deputy chairman Dmitry Medvedev said on Wednesday that Britain was Moscows "eternal enemy" and that any British officials who facilitated the war in Ukraine could be considered legitimate military targets. Medvedev, responding to British foreign secretary James Cleverlys remark that Ukraine had a right to project force beyond its own borders, said Britains "goofy officials" should remember that Britain could be "qualified as being at war". "The UK acts as Ukraines ally providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto is leading an undeclared war against Russia," Medvedev said on Twitter. "That being the case, any of its public officials (either military, or civil, who facilitate the war) can be considered as a legitimate military target." The UKs Foreign Secretary Cleverly has stated that Ukraine has the legitimate right to project force beyond its borders to undermine Russias ability to project force into Ukraine itself. According to him, legitimate military targets beyond Ukraines border are part of its Dmitry Medvedev (@MedvedevRussiaE) May 31, 2023 Five dead in Ukraine shelling of Luhansk village - Moscow-installed centre 07:30 , Matt Mathers Five people were killed and 19 wounded in Ukrainian shelling of a village in the Russian-controlled east Ukrainian region of Luhansk, a Moscow-installed coordination centre said on Wednesday. The centre said on the Telegram messaging service that Ukrainian forces had used HIMARS rocket launchers to attack a poultry farm in the village of Karpaty. The claim could not be immediately independently verified. Moscow controls nearly all of the Luhansk region in Ukraine. There was no immediate response from Ukraine, but Kyiv almost never publicly claims responsibility for attacks in Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine or in Russia. Both sides deny targeting civilians in the 15-month long war that Russia launched in February 2022. Russia seeing little success in countering Ukraines improved air defences, says UK MoD 07:07 , Arpan Rai Russia has increasingly ceded the initiative in the conflict and is reacting to Ukrainian action rather than actively progressing towards its own war aims since the start of this month, the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) said today. It noted that Russia has launched 20 nights of one-way-attack uncrewed aerial vehicle and cruise missile attacks deep inside Ukraine this month. Russia has had little success in its likely aims of neutralising Ukraines improved air defences and destroying Ukrainian counter-attack forces. On the ground, it has redeployed security forces to react to partisan attacks inside western Russia, the ministry said. It added that, operationally, Russian commanders are likely attempting to generate reserve forces and position them where they believe a Ukrainian counter-attack will occur. However, this has probably been undermined by uncommitted forces instead being sent to fill gaps in the front line around Bakhmut, the ministry said. USs new package worth $300m for Ukraine includes munitions for drones 06:42 , Arpan Rai A US military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be announced today will total up to $300m (242m) and will include additional munitions for drones, officials said. The drone ammunition comes after new attacks by unmanned aircraft targeted Moscow, which the Kremlin has blamed on Kyiv. There has been no suggestion that US-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow. Additionally, the US officials have repeatedly said that Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. The newest package will be munitions for Patriot missile batteries and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), Stinger missiles for the Avenger system, mine-clearing equipment, anti-armour rounds, unguided Zuni aircraft rockets, night vision goggles, and about 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition, said the US officials. Read the full story here: New US aid package for Ukraine will total about $300 million and include munitions for drones Russia and Ukraine not willing to protect nuclear plant, fail to align on UN agencys plan 05:43 , Arpan Rai Neither Russia nor Ukraine are committing to respect five principles laid out by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi to try to safeguard Ukraines Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The situation at Zaporizhzhia is extremely fragile and dangerous, the UN nuclear watchdogs chief said, adding that military activities continue in the region and may well increase very considerably in the near future. Mr Grossi said that the he has tried for months to craft an agreement to reduce the risk of a catastrophic nuclear accident from military activity like shelling at Europes biggest nuclear power plant. His five principles included that there should be no attack on or from the plant and that no heavy weapons such as multiple rocket launchers, artillery systems and munitions, and tanks or military personnel be housed there. Mr Grossi also called for off-site power to the plant to remain available and secure; for all its essential systems to be protected from attacks or sabotage; and for no actions that undermine these principles. Four killed, 16 injured in shelling in Luhansk, says Russia-backed officials 05:24 , Arpan Rai At least four people were killed and 16 injured in shelling by Ukraine in Luhansk regions Karpaty village, a Moscow-installed local coordination centre said today. The shelling struck a poultry farm in the village, the centre said. Russia accuses Washington of Ukrainian terrorists 04:49 , Arpan Rai Russias envoy to the US has blamed Washington for encouraging Kyiv by publicly ignoring the drone attacks on parts of Moscow. What are these attempts to hide behind the phrase that they are gathering information? Anatoly Antonov, the Russian ambassador to the US, said in remarks published on Telegram. This is an encouragement for Ukrainian terrorists. The White House said it was still gathering information yesterday on the incidents but added that it did not support attacks inside of Russia. While a Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in the drone attack on Moscow, he said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. Multiple drones attack Russias Krasnodar oil refinery 04:21 , Arpan Rai Russias envoy to the US has blamed Washington for encouraging Kyiv by publicly ignoring the drone attacks on parts of Moscow. What are these attempts to hide behind the phrase that they are gathering information? Anatoly Antonov, the Russian ambassador to the US, said in remarks published on Telegram. This is an encouragement for Ukrainian terrorists. The White House said it was still gathering information yesterday on the incidents but added that it did not support attacks inside of Russia. While a Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in the drone attack on Moscow, he said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. Russia puts top Ukrainian generals on wanted list 02:01 , Laura Sharman Russias interior ministry has put two of Ukraines top generals on a wanted list, the state-run RIA news agency said on Tuesday. On the list is Commander in Chief Valeriy Zaluzhnyi and Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander of Ukraines ground forces. The articles they are wanted under have not been specified, RIA reported, citing the ministrys wanted person database. Deputy Ukrainian defence minister Hanna Maliar dismissed the listings as a failed attempt to demoralise pro-Kyiv forces. Putting psychological pressure on commanders who are fighting against an enemy that significantly outnumbers them in terms of personnel and weaponry is pointless, she wrote in a Telegram post. No agreement on protecting Russian-held Ukrainian nuclear plant 01:02 , Laura Sharman Ukraine and Russia have been urged to safeguard a nuclear power plant in Ukraine, suggesting no agreement is in place to protect it. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi asked both countries to respect five principles to safeguard Ukraines Zaporizhzhia plant. Grossi has tried for months to craft an agreement to reduce the risk of a catastrophic nuclear accident from military activity like shelling at Europes biggest nuclear power plant, which is in southern Ukraine and has been occupied by Russia for more than a year. His five principles included that there should be no attack on or from the plant and that no heavy weapons such as multiple rocket launchers, artillery systems and munitions, and tanks or military personnel be housed there. Why the Moscow drone attacks pose a problem for Putin Tuesday 30 May 2023 23:03 , Laura Sharman Russias regular strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities are now being met with counter-punches in Russias capital city. After 15 months of Vladimir Putins war rhetoric and assurances that his special military operation wouldnt affect them, the conflict has moved into a different phase. But it is a welcome new element for Kyivans who now know they can play offence and not just defence, writes James Nixey, director of the Russia and Eurasia Programme at Chatham House. He has more on why the targeting of Moscow is another sign that the Kremlins war isnt going as planned. This will boost Ukrainian morale and sap that of Russia accordingly, he adds. Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow (Sputnik/Gavriil Grigorov via Reuters) Moscow drone attack exposes Russias vulnerabilities as more soil comes under fire Tuesday 30 May 2023 22:02 , Laura Sharman A drone attack that targeted Moscow on Tuesday exposed glaring breaches in its air defenses and underlined the capitals vulnerability as more Russian soil comes under fire amid expectations of a Ukrainian counteroffensive. The attack, which lightly damaged three apartment buildings, angered Russias hawks who criticised President Vladimir Putin and the military brass for failing to protect the heart of Kremlin power more than 310 miles from the front line. Five of the eight drones that took part in the raid were shot down, the Defense Ministry said. While three others were jammed and forced to veer off course. Moscow faces large-scale drone attacks as Putins war comes home Tuesday 30 May 2023 21:23 , Laura Sharman The Kremlin has lashed out at Kyiv in the wake of Moscow being targeted by a large-scale drone attack for the first time since its invasion of Ukraine began. Residents of some of the capitals most exclusive neighbourhoods woke to the sound of explosions as Moscow and its outskirts came under attack from the drones, which may have numbered close to 30. The incident exposes just how far Vladimir Putins decision to invade Ukraine 15 months ago has come home to roost. The Russian President labelled the drone volley a terrorist attack and claimed it was in response to what he described as an attack on a Ukrainian command centre in recent days but provided no evidence. He appeared on state television to decry the attack, blaming Kyiv for trying to intimidate Russia, Russian citizens and claiming that the attacks were focused on residential buildings. Part of an apartment building which was reportedly damaged by Ukrainian drone in Moscow, Russia Russia Ukraine war at a glance today Tuesday 30 May 2023 20:53 , Laura Sharman Drones have struck both capital cities in the Russia Ukraine war after the conflict reached Moscow. Vladimir Putin reacted after Moscow was hit with a drone attack for the first time since the war in Ukraine began. Two have been injured in the Russian capital while one has been reported dead in Kyiv following daylight attacks in the Ukrainian capital on Monday. Russian President Vladimir Putin said the attacks were meant to scare and that Moscows air defences will be bolstered. Ukraine has denied direct involvement and forecasts more strikes. The Russian president accused Ukraine, which has denied any involvement in the drone attack, of choosing the path of attempting to intimidate Russia, Russian citizens and attacks on residential buildings. Kyiv endures its 16th attack since the start of May Tuesday 30 May 2023 20:23 , Laura Sharman Vadym Ivchenko praised Ukraines air defence for doing a great job in Kyiv after Russia turned its focus back towards the capital. The Ukrainian MP said their efforts are benefitting everyone in Kyiv adding for the children and for the women, its a really tough time. Kyivs military administration said Mondays daytime strike was the 16th attack on the capital since the start of May. The administration said: In this way, the enemy changed tactics. After long, exclusively nocturnal attacks, he struck a peaceful city during the day, when most of the residents were at work and on the streets. One person was admitted to hospital after the attacks. Russia has intensified shelling of the Ukrainian capital (Global Images Ukraine via Getty) Ukrainian politicians shelter underground during daytime attack on Kyiv Tuesday 30 May 2023 19:49 , Laura Sharman Politicians were forced to take shelter underground during a Russian daylight attack on Kyiv, according to a Ukrainian MP. Russia launched 11 ballistic and cruise missiles at Kyiv at around 11.30am local time on Monday, according to the commander-in-chief of the armed forces of Ukraine, Valerii Zaluzhnyi. All the missiles were shot down, the commander said. Ukrainian MP Vadym Ivchenko said the attack was launched during a two-hour parliamentary plenary session in Kyiv. He added: When we heard the alarm, the members of parliament and everybody go to the basement underground just to be safe. Of course, they choose the time exactly when we have a plenary session that is just two hours, and they tried to hit the centre of Kyiv with missiles. The rubble of a residential building in Kyiv hit by a downed kamikaze drone on Tuesday (Global Images Ukraine via Getty) Why Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory are only likely to increase Tuesday 30 May 2023 19:07 , Natalie Crockett This mornings attack on Moscow, reportedly by a swarm of up to 30 drones, shows how Ukraine is increasingly capable and willing to take the war to the Russian capital. This is not the first such assault. The Kremlin was hit by drones three weeks ago. Senior Western security officials described to me how they believed that airstrike, exposing embarrassingly vulnerability in the heart of Vladimir Putins power, had been carried out. According to their account, four drones, with small explosive payloads, were launched from inside a wooded area outside Moscow. One was detected by air defences and destroyed. Two got through to the target before being shot down, one possibly by rifle fire from the ground. Our world affairs editor Kim Sengupta has more on why such attacks are likely to get more frequent: Why Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory are only likely to increase | Kim Sengupta NATO vows to protect newest member Finland amid Arctic manoeuvres Tuesday 30 May 2023 18:30 , Laura Sharman NATO countries are in the middle of Arctic military manoeuvres, vowing on Tuesday to defend their newest member Finland. The country is hosting its first joint NATO exercise since becoming the 31st member of the Western alliance in April. Finlands membership doubled the length of the border NATO shares with Russia after the Kremlins large-scale invasion of Ukraine another neighbour. Nearly 1,000 allied forces from the United States, Britain and Norway, and also from neighbouring Sweden, joined some 6,500 Finnish troops and some 1,000 vehicles for the Northern Forest exercise, Finlands biggest modern-time land force drill above the Arctic Circle. Wealthy Moscow suburb where Putin has a home targeted in drone attack Tuesday 30 May 2023 18:05 , Laura Sharman It has been rare for Moscow to be targeted by drones during Russias invasion of Ukraine but the capital has been told by one politician to prepare for the new reality of such attacks. Russian politicians say that among the areas hit were the Rublyovka suburb, where Russian President Vladimir Putin has an official residence, as well as numerous other members of Russias political and business elite. Alexander Khinshtein, a prominent member of Russias parliament from the ruling United Russia bloc, said three drones had been downed over three Rublyovka villages, one of which is located just 10 minutes drive from Mr Putins residence at Novo-Ogaryovo. Russias Investigative Committee said that drones had been downed over the Odintsovsky district, which includes Rublyovka. Chris Stevenson reports: Wealthy Moscow suburb where Putin has a home targeted in drone attack Russian soldiers flee after tank struck by Ukrainian drone Tuesday 30 May 2023 17:10 , Laura Sharman Footage released by Ukraines 25th Separate Airborne Sicheslav Brigade on Tuesday, 30th May, shows Russian soldiers fleeing after their tank was hit by a Ukrainian strike. The Ukrainian troops said the video was taken in the Luhansk region. The strike came as an apartment block in Moscow was damaged after drones hit several buildings on Tuesday morning. Moscows mayor said two people were injured in the early morning attack, with one hospitalised. Russias defence ministry said that Ukraine targeted Moscow with eight drones. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Russian soldiers flee after tank struck by Ukrainian drone White House: Still gathering information on Moscow drone reports Tuesday 30 May 2023 16:07 , Martha Mchardy The United States is still gathering information on reports of drones striking in Moscow, the White House said on Tuesday, reiterating that Washington does not support attacks inside Russia and is focused on helping Ukraine retake its territory. Power outages reported in several Ukrainian regions Tuesday 30 May 2023 16:06 , Martha Mchardy Power outages were reported in parts of Kyiv, Kharkiv, Poltava, Vinnytsia, and Sumy at around noon on Tuesday, Ukraines Energy Ministry said. The reason for the outages is unclear, but it is not related to the overnight Russian airstrikes in Kyiv, the ministry said. Ukraines state energy operator Ukrenergo pledged to restore the power supply to all consumers in the next few hours. Ukrenergo claimed the outages are due to several major high-voltage lines in the power system being accidentally disconnected, the Kyiv Independent reported. Ukraines parliament lowers conscription age Tuesday 30 May 2023 15:59 , Martha Mchardy Ukraines parliament has voted to lower the military enlistment age limit for young adults from 27 to 25, Ukrainian politician Yaroslav Zhelezniak reported on Telegram. The conscription of young adults in Ukraine is different from military mobilisation, which applies to men up to the age of 60. Young adults are trained at military bases but rarely sent to the frontline. Ukraine has legitimate right to defend itself, says UK foreign secretary Tuesday 30 May 2023 15:50 , Martha Mchardy Ukraine has a legitimate right to defend itself, UK foreign secretary James Cleverly told Sky News. Speaking at a news conference in Estonia, he said: It has the legitimate right to do so within its own borders of course, but it does also have the right to project force beyond its borders to undermine Russias ability to project force into Ukraine itself, Mr Cleverly said legitimate military targets beyond Ukraines border are part of its self defence. Foreign Secretary James Cleverly is visiting Estonia and Norway this week (PA Wire) We should recognise that, he said. During his visit to Estonia, the foreign secretary also said the UK, along with Estonia, has agreed to bolster support for Ukraine and ensure that NATO adapts to an increasingly contested and volatile security environment. His comments come after the Kremlin blamed Ukraine for a drone attack on Moscow this morning, which happened after Russia attacked Kyiv for the third time in 24 hours, killing one and injuring 11. Ukraine has denied any involvement. Moscow residents react following drone attack Tuesday 30 May 2023 15:33 , Martha Mchardy Moscow residents have reacted following a drone attack on the city this morning. The Kyiv regime is already crossing all the lines, Natalia, 59, told Reuters, referring to the Ukrainian government which Russia said was behind the drone attack on Moscow. This is very sad, especially since they are directing these drones at residential buildings, at the city, at civilians, where there are no military facilities. A view shows a damaged multi-storey apartment block following a reported drone attack in Moscow, Russia (REUTERS) Meanwhile, Olga, who said she lived near to the site of one of the drone collisions on Profsoyuznaya Street, called the strikes logical, to be expected ... what else were we waiting for? Of course I am glad it didnt fall on our house, just nearby, Olga added. Im thinking about moving to a safer place. One middle-aged man, who declined to give his name, told Reuters in central Moscow: You need to understand cause and effect, why everything is happening. I think that these attacks are due to only one thing: the fact that our ruler began waging a war. All of this is because of our ruler, said the man. Its no surprise its bounced back to here. Putin claims Moscow drone attack 'attempt to scare and provoke Russia' Tuesday 30 May 2023 15:28 , Martha Mchardy President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that Ukraines biggest ever drone strike on Moscow was an attempt to scare and provoke Russia, and air defences around the capital would be strengthened. Russia said eight drones targeted civilian areas of Moscow and the Moscow region - with a population of over 21 million - in the early hours of Tuesday but were either shot down or diverted with special electronic jammers. President Vladimir Putin (Sputnik) Putin cast the assault, which brought the 15-month war in Ukraine to the heart of Russia, as a terrorist response that came after Russia struck at Ukraines military intelligence headquarters several days ago. Ukraine, Putin said, had chosen the path of attempting to intimidate Russia, Russian citizens and attacks on residential buildings. This is clearly a sign of terrorist activity, he said. Kyiv seeks guarantees Black Sea grain deal will work if it allows Russian ammonia transit Tuesday 30 May 2023 15:22 , Martha Mchardy Ukraine is seeking guarantees from Moscow and the U.N. that a deal on the safe export of Black Sea grain will work normally if Kyiv allows Russian ammonia to transit Ukrainian territory, a Ukrainian official said on Tuesday. The United Nations and Turkey brokered the Black Sea Grain Initiative between Moscow and Kyiv last July to help tackle a global food crisis aggravated by Russias invasion of Ukraine, a leading global grain exporter. Russia agreed to a two-month extension of the deal this month but has said the initiative will cease unless an agreement aimed at overcoming obstacles to Russian grain and fertiliser exports is fulfilled. The demands set out by Moscow include the resumption of the transit of ammonia from Russia via Ukrainian territory to Pivdennyi port in Odesa, from where it is exported. Transit of ammonia, an important part of nitrogen-based fertilisers, was halted via the pipeline after Russias invasion. We do not understand now - does the ammonia pipeline itself solve something or not? If it does not solve anything by itself, then there is no dialogue, Yuriy Vaskov, Ukraines deputy renovation minister, told a grain conference. If it (ammonia) is a key issue, then they, the U.N., must clearly say that if the ammonia pipeline resumes working, then Ukraine will have such opportunities (to export grain in a normal way) and then our top political leadership will decide whether it is in our interests or not. The grain deal has not yet resumed full operations since it was extended, and no ships have been authorised to travel to Pivdennyi port since April 29, the U.N. said last week. Russias demands to improve its grain and fertiliser exports include the reconnection of Russian Agricultural Bank (Rosselkhozbank) to the SWIFT international payment system. They also include the resumption of supplies of agricultural machinery and parts; a lifting of restrictions on insurance and reinsurance; and the unblocking of assets and accounts of Russian companies involved in food and fertiliser exports. Ukrainian officials have said that since mid-April, Russia has unreasonably restricted the work of the Black Sea grain deal. Russia has denied this. A senior government source told Reuters this month that Kyiv would consider allowing Russian ammonia to transit its territory for export on condition that the Black Sea grain deal is expanded to include more Ukrainian ports and a wider range of commodities. Ukraine wants to make Danube canal deeper to expand grain export routes - Kyiv Tuesday 30 May 2023 15:12 , Martha Mchardy Ukraine wants to begin work to make its Danube shipping canal deeper as early as this year to expand its alternative routes to export grain, deputy minister of Renovation and Infrastructure Yuriy Vaskov said on Tuesday. Ukraine, which was invaded by Russia last year, has already increased the depth of its southwestern Bystre Canal on the Danube River to 6.5 metres from 3.9 metres with the aim of increasing food exports from its river ports. The push for alternative export routes has taken on urgency during the war after Russia blocked Ukraines traditional export route via the Black Sea and only a limited volume is shipped out under a deal mediated by Turkey and the United Nations. Vaskov told a grain conference on Tuesday that the new depth of the Bystre Canal allowed ships to stop at Ukraines Danube ports, but that it was still not enough for loaded ships that have to use Romanias Sulina Canal, which is deeper. He said Ukraine would like to extend the depth to 7.2 metres, similar to the Romanian canal, and intended to hold talks with European Union officials on the matter in the near future. Romania has said it is concerned that any work on the waterway through the shared Danube Delta area could threaten wildlife at the UNESCO World Heritage Site and break international environmental protection treaties. Ukraine has been transporting grain on the Bystre Canal as it develops alternative routes for its exports. A quarter of Ukraines agricultural exports currently pass through its Danube ports, while half exits via its Black Sea ports and another quarter traverses Ukraines western land border. Kyiv woman died after going out on balcony to watch drones being shot down, says Kyiv mayor Tuesday 30 May 2023 15:07 , Martha Mchardy Kyiv mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has said a woman died in Kyiv today after going out on the balcony to watch drones being shot down. One woman died and 11 were injured after overnight Russian airstrikes on Kyiv. The mayor said he had visited the 24-story building where the woman was killed. Confirming the incident, he said: The probability of air attacks is very high. Therefore, I urge the citizens of Kyiv not to neglect their own safety, not to ignore the alarm signals! And do not go out to the balconies and streets to observe how the air defence works. Because at night, a woman died in a house in the Holosiivskyi district, who went out on the balcony to watch drones being shot down. Russias Putin says drone attack was aimed at civilian targets Tuesday 30 May 2023 15:00 , Martha Mchardy Russian president Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that a drone attack on Moscow earlier in the day was aimed at civilian targets and that the capitals air defences would be boosted. Russia puts Ukraine's top general on wanted list - RIA Tuesday 30 May 2023 14:59 , Martha Mchardy Russias Interior Ministry has put Ukraines top general Valeriy Zaluzhnyi on a wanted list, the state-run RIA news agency said on Tuesday. The article he is wanted under has not been specified, RIA reported, citing the ministrys wanted person database. Ukrainian minister urges Britain and Germany to send Eurofighter jets Tuesday 30 May 2023 14:59 , Martha Mchardy Ukraines defence minister Oleksii Reznikov wants Germany and Britain to send his country Eurofighter Typhoon jets to combat Russian air attacks, he said in an interview published on Tuesday by the Funke media group. Ukraine has been campaigning for its Western allies to provide it with fighter jets, in particular the U.S.-built F-16s flown by several NATO nations. US president Joe Biden gave the green light for Western allies to hand over their F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv during the G7 conference in Japan to bolster Ukraines defences, and also agreed to train Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16s. However, Germany and Britain have so far declined to send jets, saying they do not have the F-16s that Ukraine wants. They say the time required to train pilots and the substantial support crews needed to send their Eurofighter Typhoon jets meant they would be of little immediate use. Reznikov, however, said these could also be helpful in Ukraines fight against Russias invasion. If Britain and Germany were to combine their Eurofighter supply capabilities, that would be an important step, he was quoted as saying. Russias deputy foreign minister Alexander Grushko warned that supplying F-16s to Ukraine could pose a colossal risk. A spokesperson for the German defence ministry said Berlins stance still stood. Britains defence ministry did not immediately respond. So far, no Western-designed jets have been donated. Poland and Slovakia have supplied 27 MiG-29s to supplement Ukraines Soviet-era fleet. Russia says it can take severe measures after drone attack Tuesday 30 May 2023 14:53 , Martha Mchardy Russias Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday that it reserved the right to take the most severe measures in response to a drone attack on the capital Moscow earlier in the day. Assurances by NATO officials that the Kyiv regime will not launch strikes deep into Russian territory prove to be completely hypocritical, the ministry said in a statement. Russia reserves the right to take the harshest possible measures in response to the terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime, it added. EU doubles financial aid to Moldova in a bid to quell pro-Russian sentiments Tuesday 30 May 2023 14:51 , Martha Mchardy European Union governments decided on Tuesday to nearly double the amount of EU financial support to Moldova to a total of 295 million euros, the Swedish presidency of the EU said. The decision comes as the EU seeks to quell pro-Russian sentiments in parts of Moldova. Moldova can continue to count on the EU. We will continue to support Moldova, also financially. Given the current circumstances, it is appropriate that we double the funds which we make available to Moldova, Swedish finance minister Elisabeth Svantesson said in a statement. Moldova, a small, poor state bordering Ukraine and Romania, has denounced Russias invasion and accused Moscow of trying to destabilise the administration of president Maia Sandu. However, earlier this month the assembly in a pro-Russian region of Moldova endorsed the election of a local leader intent on improving ties with Moscow. Russia says it struck 'decision-making centres' in Ukraine Tuesday 30 May 2023 14:48 , Martha Mchardy Russias Defence Ministry said on Tuesday that its forces carried out strikes on Ukrainian decision-making centres in Ukraine, the Interfax news agency reported. The White House on Tuesday reiterated its opposition to attacks by Ukraine inside of Russia after a drone attack in Moscow damaged buildings in the Russian capital. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the Biden administration is still gathering information about what took place in Moscow to gain more clarity on the situation. Russian officials blamed Ukraine for a Tuesday morning drone attack, which followed the latest round of airstrikes launched against Ukrainian cities this month. We have said this before, we do not support attacks inside of Russia. Weve been very clear about that, Jean-Pierre told reporters. We have been focused on providing Ukraine with the equipment and training they need to retake their own sovereign territory, and thats exactly what weve done for this past more than a year now. Asked if Ukraine risked losing the moral high ground in its battle against Russia if it launched attacks inside of the Russian border, Jean-Pierre said she would not weigh in on hypotheticals, but the administration does not support the use of U.S.-made equipment being used for attacks inside of Russia. We have been clear not just publicly but privately with the Ukrainians, Jean-Pierre said. The Russian defense ministry said in a post on Telegram that all eight of the drones were intercepted, including five that were shot down and three others whose systems were jammed, causing them to go off course. The defense ministry also called the drones a terrorist attack by the Kyiv regime. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said in an interview with NBC News that Ukraine has nothing directly to do with the attacks on Moscow, adding he was pleased to observe and predict an increase in the number of attacks. Russian forces launched a drone attack on Kyiv on Saturday night that left at least one person dead. Ukraine was reportedly able to shoot down 52 out of the 54 drones launched on its capital during the attack. That attack in Kyiv was the latest offensive by Russia on a Ukrainian city since Russian forces invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The U.S. has provided billions of dollars in support for Ukraine militarily and economically in the roughly 15 months since. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) New Zealand's national airline is asking passengers to step on the scales before they board international flights. Air New Zealand says it wants to weigh 10,000 passengers during a monthlong survey so pilots can better know the weight and balance of their planes before takeoff. But the numbers from the scales won't be flashing up for all to see. There will be no visible display anywhere, the airline promised, and the weigh-in data will remain anonymous even to airline staff. We weigh everything that goes on the aircraft from the cargo to the meals onboard, to the luggage in the hold," said Alastair James, a load control improvement specialist for the airline, in a statement. "For customers, crew and cabin bags, we use average weights, which we get from doing this survey. Indeed the numbers are required by the nation's industry watchdog, the Civil Aviation Authority. Under the authority's rules, airlines have various options to estimate passenger weight. One option is to periodically carry out surveys like Air New Zealand is doing to establish an average weight. Another option is to accept a standard weight set by the authority. Currently, the authority's designated weight for people 13 and over is 86 kilograms (190 pounds), which includes carry-on luggage. The authority last changed the average passenger weight in 2004, increasing it from 77 kilograms (170 pounds). Health statistics show New Zealanders are becoming heavier. The latest national health survey put the adult obesity rate at 34%, up from 31% a year earlier. Childhood obesity rates increased to 13%, up from 10% a year earlier. Customers on Air New Zealand domestic flights were asked to weigh in a couple of years ago. James said there was nothing for passengers to fear by stepping on the scales. Its simple, its voluntary, and by weighing in, youll be helping us to fly you safely and efficiently, every time," he said. The airline said the survey began this week and will run through July 2. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Marysville, CA (95901) Today Sun and clouds mixed. High 91F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low 58F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph. Rep. Kim Nam-kuk responds to questions from reporters at the National Assembly in Seoul, Wednesday. Yonhap By Lee Min-hyung Rep. Kim Nam-kuk, a scandal-tainted lawmaker, appears to have engaged in "highly suspicious" crypto trading activities, which might be linked with possible money laundering, a ruling party lawmaker said, citing sources from Upbit, the nation's largest crypto exchange. "Upbit responded that Kim is suspected of money laundering, as his trading acts look abnormal from the viewpoint of experts," Rep. Kim Sung-won of the ruling People Power Party told reporters during a briefing after holding the fourth round of a fact-finding committee meeting on Kim Nam-kuk. Dunamu CEO Lee Sirgoo also attended the meeting to clarify whether the scandal-hit lawmaker has conducted any unfair crypto trading through the exchange. Dunamu is the operator of the exchange. A group of 10 experts also took part in the closed-door meeting. Kim Nam-kuk has come under fire for his suspicious crypto trading worth 6 billion won ($4.53 million). The committee is focusing its investigation on whether he has engaged in crypto trading with insider information due to the suspicious trading record. He purchased about 40 types of cryptocurrencies most of which are unpopular alternative coins. However, the value of some of the coins surged shortly after Kim jumped into a buying spree of them. For instance, he invested 400 million won to buy 57,000 Mekong coins at 6,800 won per coin in mid-February 2022. But its price more than doubled to 17,000 won per coin, only four days after his trades. He also bought some unlisted coins. But some of them were listed on a local exchange with price hikes, soon after Kim's investment. Local exchanges maintain their position that they have never provided any information on crypto listing plans to Kim. Nevertheless, the controversy surrounding Kim is showing little sign of abating due to the suspicious timeline of his trades. Both ruling and opposition parties are intensifying political pressure on Kim, urging the Assembly's ethics committee to make swift decisions over the level of discipline to be meted out to him. The decision is forecast to be made as early as July. The next round of the committee meeting will be held on June 8. The basic issue before us is the mega-chaos, confusion and conflict in the nations capital due to the indigenous brand of dyarchy The tussle over Delhis political status, for power and position in the nations capital, has been going on for many years between competing players. Today, unfortunately, its at its nadir. So much so that both the lieutenant-governor and the chief minister of what is officially known as the National Capital Territory have descended several notches from the accepted level of public decency to control the deployment of the IAS-dominated civil service, thereby giving the impression of a colonial mindset of the capitals ruling class of the British Rajs bygone days. The magic word is control. Control the personnel to control the capital and make one count in the club of VVIP culture of Indias democracy. Indeed, as the issue of control of the bureaucracy now heads back to the Supreme Court, its time to revisit the bigger picture, rather than commenting on a distracting issue; of whether the fresh ordinance brought forward by the Central government constitutes contempt of court or not. The alleged contempt is a matter to be determined by the court itself, and not by the parties to the conflict. The real question today is this: how far can the administration of Indias capital city be allowed to get dysfunctional? How long can the citizens of Delhi, and the nation as a whole, tolerate this juvenile political potboiler in front of the world, like a prime-time TV soap opera, full of melodrama, hysteria and histrionics, with dual control and overlapping jurisdiction creating an avoidable fracas. We can, in fact, go back to the British-created dyarchy system, set in motion 104 years ago, under the Government of India Act 1919, to usher in the Montague-Chelmsford Reforms. Blacks Law Dictionary defines dyarchy as a government jointly ruled by two people, such as William and Mary of England. The 1919 Act marked the introduction of rudimentary democracy in the Raj executive, totally under British administration, by dividing the provincial executives into authoritarian and popularly responsible sections, which would consist respectively of councillors appointed by the British Crown and ministers appointed by the governor, responsible to the provincial legislative councils. It, however, emerged as a system of confusion, chaos and conflict which satisfied no one, and ended with the introduction of the Government of India Act 1935, which proved to be the prelude to a full-fledged Constitution of Independent India in January 1950. The basic issue before us is the mega-chaos, confusion and conflict in the nations capital due to the indigenous brand of dyarchy that is harming the country. The seeds of confusion and confrontation were sown in the 1980s. No political player or party can claim innocence for this capital blunder. The earlier ruling and Opposition parties have swapped places in conformity with democracy in Parliament and local bodies. But under no stretch of the imagination can they be exonerated for their poor role in this political melodrama. The slogans in the 1980s were small is beautiful, small is conducive to development and Delhi should be a full-fledged state for the progress of its citizens. Very soon, Delhi almost became a state. Almost because though Delhi officially remains a Union territory, its unlike other Union territories like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman, etc. Special provisions with respect to Delhi were carved out by the new Article 239AA in the Constitution. Dyarchy came to Indias capital in December 1993, but most Indians forgot to take note of some important chapters in their countrys history which suffered for centuries due to internecine strife, power struggles and an inability to foresee things. The lack of far-sightedness inevitably did the Indian ruling class in. Even in the first week of August 1947, South Asia had 565 princely states, which all had different models of governance. As Delhi became a state within a state, friction between the Centre and the city government was only a matter of time, given our multi-party democratic system. Honestly speaking, theres still time for Parliament to do what it had done to state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019. While it was not ideal for a proud, long-standing state to have its status reduced to that of a Union Territory and its stature diminished in the eyes of law; in Delhis case it could become an enlarged municipal corporation body. If an old state can be turned into a Union territory, Parliament should seriously consider changing the capitals position too. A capital city cant be allowed to be in endless conflict with the Central government. It cant be claimed that one particular party will be running the national government till eternity. Today its X, tomorrow it may be Y; and the day after it could be the turn of Z. As an apolitical professional, this writer has always maintained that at best Delhis chief executive should be a Cabinet Secretary-ranked official who could be designated the chief commissioner or chief administrator -- who could be either be a civil servant (serving or retired) or a seasoned political appointee, reporting to the President through the Union home ministry. The chief commissioner/chief administrator could have five or six zonal commissioners with their respective jurisdictions. Somehow, the British (despite being bad in our collective perception) did allow room for different types of administrative systems in difficult and challenging stations. And, Delhi being the capital of the worlds largest democracy, needs to be run by a body thats not eternally at odds with the national government, but one which is in tune with it. For far too long, the wise men of India have tried to parcel out existing states or reshaped or re-modelled areas next to our vulnerable borders facing hostile neighbours, or changing their constitutional status, which in turn created more trouble. One sincerely hopes that the nations capital, at least, will be spared endless chaos and friction to enable its administrators to focus on issues which demand remedial action. One would suggest that the powers that be avoid looking at how capital cities and other major cities around the world are run -- be it London, Paris, Washington, New York, Beijing, Shanghai or Tokyo. Indians need to remember that Indias problems are its own, and they cannot be compared or superimposed from imported models. Indigenous issues need indigenous prescriptions. We have an amazing Constitution to deal with all kinds of situations. Its better to make use of our own Magna Carta rather than look outside to bring about reforms within. by Nirmala Carvalho Undisturbed, the chairman of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights continues his campaign of persecution against Christian educational establishments. After threatening to arrest the bishop of Jabalpur, he recently targeted a childrens centre in Katni. The BJP-ruled state goes to the polls in November and now children are used as a political pawn by those who should instead protect them. Jabalpur (AsiaNews) Priyank Kanoongos personal war against Catholic educational establishments in Madhya Pradesh continues. A member of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Kanoongo heads the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR). The Asha Kiran Children's Care Institute is the latest facility to end up in his crosshairs. Run by the Congregation of the Mother of Carmel, a Syro-Malabar order, the centre is located in Katni, a city in the Diocese of Jabalpur, whose bishop Mgr Gerald Almeida was recently threatened with arrest. The pattern is always the same: Kanoongo orders a surprise inspection at a Christian-run facility for children. And invariably after interrogations and searches, they trump up "evidence" of fraud and forced conversions of children. The accusations tend to collapse once they reach the courts, but only after feeding a sense of grievance among Hindus and hostility towards Christians in a state led by the BJP where state elections are set for next November. In Katni, Kanoongo personally led the inspection, posting live updates on his social media profiles, noisily complaining about Hindu children forcibly converted through participation in Christian prayers. For this reason, he filed a complaint with the police under Madhya Pradeshs draconian anti-conversion law. The nuns rejected his accusations out of hand. In a statement, they explain that the five children in question were unruly, constantly misbehaving, and were kept rather than expelled simply to avoid sending them back to a difficult environment. In their view, the NCPCR chairman is using the children for political purposes rather than helping them in a difficult situation. The centre in Katni was created in 2005 upon the request of Indian Railways in a building they owned to meet the needs of needy families who live near the tracks. Later, to provide better facilities for children, it was moved to a place picked by the Diocese of Jabalpur and set up with its resources. The Congregation of the Mother of Carmel has been running children's facilities for 80 years, working co-operatively with the local district administration, childcare department, police and other agencies, who gave timely suggestions and indications that were very useful. Given the seriousness of the situation, the nuns are puzzled by the NCPCRs contradictory behaviour. The children were picked up at 6 pm and brought back at 9 pm. The staff were ordered not to talk to them and take no action against them because if they complained, the management and staff would be sent to jail, the nuns note. Yet, If this is the case, why did they send the children back to our centre? If our institute is as the chairman says, they should have transferred them immediately. Instead, they brought them here again. by Alessandra Tamponi South Korea hosted the first Korea-Pacific Islands Summit, which provided an opportunity to discuss sustainable development and maritime affairs. Given its geopolitical and economic importance, the region is increasingly interesting to the Yoon administration. Seoul (AsiaNews) The first Korea-Pacific Island Summit was held in South Korea on 29 and 30 May. Co-chaired by South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, it was attended by representatives from 17 of the 18 countries of the Pacific Islands Forum and provided a useful platform to discuss future South Korean-Pacific relations. Chosen by the host country, the summits main theme was "Navigating towards Co-Prosperity: Strengthening Cooperation with the Blue Pacific". It is precisely with the aim of shared prosperity that participants promised to boost cooperation. Areas of interest include maritime affairs, in particular ocean protection from radioactive material; sustainable development; combating climate change; and resilience in response to natural disasters. South Korea used the summit to establish diplomatic relations with Niue, an island country not yet a member of the United Nations, and to present its action plan for the Pacific islands. Built on three pillars, the latter calls for resilience, i.e. improving countries' response to disasters caused by climate change; stronger measures to help the region realise its potential; revitalisation through greater physical and digital connectivity for post-pandemic development. South Koreas president also pledged to double official development assistance (ODA) by 2027 to a total of about US$ 40 million. For the Yoon administration, the summit represents a key move to enhance South Koreas influence in a region that is increasingly important geopolitically, as it covers about 15 per cent of the planets surface, and is vital for the realisation of its Indo-Pacific strategy. Announced in 2022, the strategy, which has attracted the attention of both Washington and Beijing, calls for a shift in South Koreas foreign policy, envisaging the creation of a free, peaceful, and prosperous area. In light of Seouls existing relations with the Indo-Pacific, it seeks greater alignment with the United States and Australia to counter Chinas growing influence. With the regions significance growing, Yoon wants to build synergy between his administrations objectives and those envisaged in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, the long-term development plan adopted by the 18-member Pacific Islands Forum. Fishing and maritime affairs are the key areas, not only because of the islands' vulnerability to climate change and rising sea levels, but also because of the role played by the fishing industry in the relationship between South Korea and the islands countries. The Republic of Kiribati, for example, has an exclusive economic zone of 3.5 million square kilometres in the Pacific Ocean, mostly tuna-rich waters. In the past, Kiribati authorities sold fishing licenses to companies in Taiwan, Spain, the United States and even South Korea; however, illegal fishing and underreported catches have put the country at risk, threatening small local fishermen and the entire ecosystem. South Korea has recently been linked to illegal fishing in the Pacific. A South Korean ship was prevented from unloading a cargo of more than 4,000 kg of tuna in Bangkok (Thailand) following allegations that it used illegal fish aggregation devices (FADs). What is more, this is not an isolated case according to the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) whose investigations reveal that many more South Korean vessels are involved. Thus, for South Korean President Yoon, sustainable development in fishing and related activities could become a key aspect for economic and environmental cooperation with Pacific countries. by Stefano Vecchia Two unidentified hitmen gunned down Cresenciano Aldovino Bunduquin. Despite some improvement as reported by Reporters Without Borders, press freedom in the Philippines is still under threat. Radio broadcasters are particularly affected. Manila (AsiaNews) Cresenciano Aldovino Bunduquin is the third journalist to be assassinated since Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr took office on 30 June 2022. From the day of his inauguration to April 30 of this year, some 60 violations of media freedom were reported, with targeted media workers often labelled as agitators or supporters of the countrys ongoing communist insurgency. Like other murders involving people in the media, Bunduquin's death came in an ambush. Two unidentified hitmen shot the well-known radio broadcaster outside a store in Calapan City, Mindoro Island. Taken to hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival. When the assailants fled the scene of the crime on a motorbike, the journalist's son chased them on his car and hit one who was killed while the other was able to escape. Bunduquin, 50, worked at DWXR Kalahi Radio. His death comes seven months after that of his colleague Percy Lapid, murdered in Las Pinas, Metro Manila. Investigators have asked for the publics help, urging witnesses to come forward, but at present, no motive has been disclosed. Those who knew the journalist believe that the investigation should look at his work and the people he might have rattled. In the Philippines, radio is king of information media. It is no accident that most of the media people killed between the fall of the Marcos dictatorship in 1986 and the first year of his sons presidency worked in radio, 101 out of 198. Regardless of what the investigation might deliver, the Philippines remains one of the countries where a journalist's job is a risky business. In its latest update on world press freedom in early May, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) notes a certain improvement in the Southeast Asian country; however, it still ranks low, 132 out of 180, in terms of press freedom. According to RSF, The Philippine media are extremely vibrant despite the governments targeted attacks and constant harassment, since 2016,[*] of journalists and media outlets that are too critical. The press freedom advocacy NGO goes on to say that Philippine journalists were unsettled by Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jrs election given his fathers precedent. Meanwhile, the Philippine Congress is examining ways to counter the spread of fake news. [*] Year when Rodrigo Duterte was elected president. I'm fine, as I'm very fortunate to own my home I own, but I'm feeling the pinch on my mortgage with other inflation costs I rent and it's expensive, but it could be worse I'm seriously considering leaving the valley if something doesn't give Vote View Results Evett showcases Korea's local ingredients in innovative ways. Korea Times photo by Kim Kang-min By Lee Gyu-lee Surrounded by water on three sides with plenty of mountainous terrains, Korea is a land full of ingredients, offering four distinctive seasons of greens and seafood. Chef Joseph Lidgerwood of Evett / Korea Times photo by Kim Kang-min So to Koreans, sea pineapple caught by "haenyeo" (female free divers), wild "dureup" (shoots of angelica trees) gathered by foragers and years-old "jang" (a traditional fermented food paste) are just other ingredients available in the country. But for Australian chef Joseph Lidgerwood, owner of the Seoul-based Michelin-star restaurant Evett, these ingredients, and others, attracted him to the country's cuisine. "I've worked in the U.K. and the U.S., in really good restaurants. (But) all the ingredients felt the same But when I came to Korea, the ingredients were so different, so amazing. There's so much life," the chef said during a recent interview with The Korea Times at the restaurant. "I wanted to work out what I wanted to do with my career as a chef, and one of the things I wanted to challenge myself with is to try and use different ingredients. So I thought that Korea was one of the best and most undiscovered places." Lidgerwood offers innovative cuisine at Evett, incorporating Korea's local ingredients in new, unique ways, such as leaf-shaped acorn crisp with soy-based creme fraiche hanging on a branch. Opened in 2018, the fine dining restaurant has been maintaining one Michelin star since 2019. Evett earned one Michelin star a year after it opened. Korea Times photo by Kim Kang-min The Tasmanian-born chef has experience in various culinary scenes, from Europe to the U.S., including working at The French Laundry, a California-based three-Michelin star restaurant. Then in 2016, he took a year off to travel to different countries to open pop-up restaurants. That's when he came across Korea and saw his culinary journey laid out before him after falling in love with the country. "When I was working in the U.K., especially London, they have such a great culinary scene. So on the weekends, I could get really good Vietnamese, Japanese or Szechuan food. There were really good representations of those restaurants outside of the country," he said. "But all representations of Korea was just like barbecue and 'gimbap' rice and vegetables wrapped in dried seaweed and I think that's such a low representation of what Korean food is ... But when I came here, it's completely different." Chef Joseph Lidgerwood strives to offer unique dining experiences with local ingredients. Korea Times photo by Kim Kang-min Impressed by the wide variety of ingredients and their different processing techniques, the chef travels across the country for hands-on experiences with fresh local ingredients. He still takes trips every couple of weeks to source them, like accompanying foragers to collect wild dureup or edible plants such as spicebush in the forest. From his creative and boundary-pushing dishes, the Australian chef is transforming the way people experience and appreciate Korean cuisine and in the process, uncovering a world of possibilities. Below is an excerpt from the interview with Lidgerwood. It has been edited for clarity and readability. Q. What's so unique about Korean ingredients? A. When I first came to Korea, I was traveling through and learning about 'meongge' (sea pineapple) or pen shell or 'doenjang' (fermented soybean paste), and all these kinds of familiar ingredients to Korean people. And I was just amazed about the level of flavor and the level of integrity in the ingredients, especially within making jang. It takes so many years; it takes life and love into those products and it might be so common for Korean people, but for people outside of Korea, it's really special. A staffer at Evett is prepping in the kitchen. Korea Times photo by Kim Kang-min Q. You still travel around Korea to source local ingredients. Why is it important to do that? A. Especially with food and cuisine, you need to find out where it comes from. You need to have that connection with the person who's growing it and with the source of where it's growing to really appreciate the ingredient. Because I think, even when it's maybe simple carrots or the forage ingredients, if you go to meet the person, you see the love that goes into making or harvesting that ingredient. It gives you a deeper sense of appreciation for it (Because if not,) you're not going to see the love and the amount of process that goes into it. Growing up in Australia, I had quite a good connection to nature, I would say. I grew up on a farm, so I understand the whole growing process. But in Korea, it's completely different. So, say for sea pineapple, I never knew that there are 'haenyeos' diving down to get them. And for the 'hwangtae' (dried pollock), the way that they hang them over the sticks to dry them in Inje of Gangwon Province, it's so fascinating and so completely different from what we have in Australia or the U.K. And it's really cool. Especially for me as a chef, I want to keep learning and discovering, and it's so interesting to learn those things. A leaf-shaped acorn crisp and soy-based creme fraiche at Evett / Korea Times photo by Kim Kang-min Q. Where do you get inspiration for your dishes at Evett? A. I get inspiration from meeting people. So when we go down and travel to meet, say, the forager, his stories about the ingredients or the way that he uses them really inspire us to showcase them. Because he will talk about (his experience associated with) the ingredient, like when he was a kid, he would be picking acacia flowers on the way to school, or he'd have this little lunchbox. We would have these little small stories that we can build together to make a dish that has "Korea" in it and not just Korean ingredients, which is really important to us. So it's not just about the ingredient. It's the stories that make up people's association with that dish. So whether it's, like I said, acacia flowers, a dosirak (lunchbox) or rice cake, all those little stories and the way that we can impact the dish really help us create new dishes. Q. When you come up with new dishes, is your primary intention to make something of Korea into something new? A. When we first opened, we drew four circles of what makes a dish possible at Evett. So the first one is Korean, the next one is flavor, the third one is technique and the fourth one is creative and innovative. And all of them have to link up. So (with everything) we have to have a heart. The dish has to be Korean at its base and has to be tasty, first of all. Chef Joseph Lidgerwood prepares a dessert at Evett. Korea Times photo by Kim Kang-min I think most people have a connotation that fine dining is quite boring and stiff like it's not going to be very interesting. So what we're trying to do is, first and foremost, serve really nice food, but also make people fall in love with Korean ingredients. So the way that we do that is by trying to present it in different ways So finding new ways that people can engage is definitely high on the list. Q. What kind of feedback do you receive from the guests? A. (The ratio of Koreans and foreigners) kind of fluctuates. I think from the Koreans, when I first opened, my main concern was that I'd never cooked with Korean ingredients before. So it's kind of daunting coming in and cooking stuff that is (already) cooked so well here. They've been really appreciative of us just using Korean ingredients. And the response from Korean guests has been really, really positive I think they're really appreciative that we're showcasing Korean ingredients which is cool. And then the foreigners that come in and join us, they're normally blown away. Because here at the restaurant we don't serve caviar or truffles or anything like that because we believe that the Korean ingredients are super special. So being able to put that at the forefront and not mix it too much with foreign ingredients, I think they're very appreciative as well. The interior of Evett / Korea Times photo by Kim Kang-min Growing Community is written by Katherine Sand, director of Aspen Family Connections; Renee Giles, AFCs early childhood connector; and Megan Monaghan, co-manager of Kids First. It runs every other Wednesday in the Aspen Daily News. It features topics of interest related to early childhood, parenting and education. To reach the authors, email ksand@aspenk12.net, rgiles@aspenk12.net or megan.monaghan@aspen.gov. EV Art Basel is an international modern and contemporary art show bringing together 284 galleries and over 4,000 artists from across the globe. The 2023 edition will take place in Basel, Switzerland, from June 12 to 18."The Electric AI Canvas" is an extension of the entirely virtual work "The Ultimate AI Masterpiece." The BMW i5 will be transformed into a dynamic canvas of generative art, featuring works by contemporary artists Kohei Nawa, Erin N. Mack, Koo Jiyoon, Esther Mahlangu, and Bin Woo Hyuk. Besides exhibiting the work, BMW will also serve as a global partner for the event, providing VIP car service.In collaboration with creative technologists Nathan Shipley and Gary Yeh, custom intelligence-generated animations are developed utilizing AI models trained on a curated dataset of works from renowned contemporary artists. You might wonder, "But how does AI actually know what to create?" Well, the technology is built upon a foundational model trained from more than 50,000 images spanning 900 years of art history. New abstract animations are generated based on learned styles from contemporary and classical art. They're then projected onto the BMW i5 For "The Electric AI Canvas," Nvidia's AI architecture StyleGAN was used to evoke various artistic styles and come up with abstract evolving animations. After training a base model to represent art in general, StyleGAN was further trained based on works from the participating contemporary artists. Given that AI in artmaking has sparked controversy, this approach showcases how the technology can support artists and amplify their artistic visions. Moreover, Nathan Shipley explained that they wanted to explore how the results change when different parameters of the algorithms are changed.Gary Yeh explained that the digital art medium is often disconnected by nature from the physical world, and the art show is an exciting opportunity for visitors to experience digital art via animations that unfold in front of their eyes. Mirrors amplify and reflect the animations, further immersing the viewer in the experience.Besides promoting the new i5, this exhibit continues the German automaker's engagement in crucial dialogues regarding technology and art in the AI era and how AI can serve as a creative tool. Furthermore, "The Electric AI Canvas" is a testament to BMW's dedication to human-centered technology and sustainability.The BMW i5 will be available in two versions : eDrive40 and the M60 xDrive. According to the company, a third powertrain configuration will be released next year. In the United States, the eDrive40's pricing will start at $67,795, while the range-topping M60 xDrive will cost $85,095. VoloCity, VoloIQ, and AMOS there are the three main pillars of Volocopter 's air mobility system. The first is the aircraft itself, a two-seat eVTOL specifically designed for urban flights. The second is a dedicated platform created by the same manufacturer as a UAM (Urban Air Mobility) operating system for both air taxis and cargo drones. The third one is an MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) software tool developed by Swiss Aviation Software (Swiss-AS).AMOS was not created specifically for eVTOLs. In fact, it has been used exclusively in conventional aviation until now. The Swiss company is breaking the ice by partnering with an eVTOL maker, Volocopter, for the first time.The German manufacturer's own platform is mainly intended for the operational part directly connected to customers, including things like booking, aircraft status, location, and battery health. Developed together with Lufthansa Industry Solutions, the VoloIQ was introduced as the first fully-integrated digital platform for UAM.By contrast, the AMOS software will be used for managing future air taxi fleets. It monitors things like ground handling operations, component purchase dates, installation/replacement dates, and total flight hours. Ground technicians will primarily use the data obtained with the help of this software, with AI (artificial intelligence) playing an important part as well, especially for improving efficiency over time.Volocopter is inches-closer to obtaining the type certification for the VoloCity. Last month, it reached one of the most important milestones, with the opening of its production facilities in Bruchsal, Germany, and the inauguration of a new hangar that will eventually become the final assembly line for the electric air taxi.Last year, the German manufacturer celebrated another industry first. The Volocopter 2X prototype completed a crewed test flight at the first fully-functional vertiport in Italy, built in partnership with Volocopter. Commercial operations for the VoloCity are scheduled to start by 2024 in Germany, France, and Italy.This electric air taxi promises a short-to-medium range of up to 21 miles (35 km), reaching a top speed of 68 mph (110 kph). It will eventually be joined by a long-range version, the VoloConnect.This is a much bigger, four-seat aircraft with fixed wings, capable of covering 60 miles (95 km) at 155 mph (249 kph). The German manufacturer's electric range also includes a utility drone, the VoloDrone, with a heavy-duty capacity of up to 440 lb (200 kg) and a 25-mile (40 km) range. Weather information on Android Auto Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution The Coolwalk redesign Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution Despite the mixed opinions, weather data in Android Auto eventually became a must-have tool that went through several transformations.The most recent took place when Google rolled out the Coolwalk treatment , as the company integrated the current temperature and conditions into a dedicated weather card.The information is only available on portrait screens, while landscape head units can't show weather data because of the limited screen estate.Google has already promised to bring this essential information to all users, and now it looks like the work in this regard is advancing, with the search giant moving a step closer to enabling the weather card for everybody.The original version of Android Auto displayed weather conditions and the current temperature in a dedicated widget on the home screen. It was an approach that everybody loved, as Android Auto displayed weather data right after launch.Android Auto evolved, and so did the weather information, so when Google released the first big redesign in 2019, the temperature and condition icons were moved to the status bar at the top of the screen.In many ways, this new approach made a lot more sense. By showing weather details in the top right corner, Android Auto used the available screen estate for more important things like apps. At the same time, weather data in the top right corner just made sense, as this is an approach that's also used on other devices, such as mobile and PCs.Now that the Coolwalk redesign is available, the weather feature went through another transformation, so it's no longer displayed in the top right corner.Coolwalk allows users to run multiple apps on the same screen using cards compared to the previous versions. The interface is split into multiple cards, and essential apps, such as navigation and audio players, get their own cards.Google killed off the status bar at the top of the screen, so the weather data had to move somewhere else. Contrary to most people's expectations, Google didnt transfer it to the taskbar at the bottom (where the current time and signal strength are displayed) but created a dedicated card just for weather data.Needless to say, having a special card for weather information is a waste of screen estate, and Google itself figured this out. The card is available only on portrait screens , whereas landscape head units don't display weather data at all.This strategy has obviously caused much frustration in the Android Auto user community, especially as landscape head units are more common than those using a portrait aspect ratio.Now it looks like Google is working on fixing this.We've known for a while that the Mountain View-based search giant has been working on enabling the weather experience on all Android Auto Coolwalk devices, but it appears we're getting closer to the moment when things get back to normal.Android Auto 9.6, which is now rolling out to production devices, comes with a new flag to enable the weather card on all screens. The flag is still in its early days, so it can't be activated just yet, but it's probably just a matter of time until it appears in private beta builds.It's unclear how Google resolved this shortcoming, as enabling a weather card on a landscape head unit could make the interface more cluttered.By default, a landscape aspect ratio shows the navigation app (be it Google Maps, Waze, or another alternative ), the music app, and active phone calls. As such, there's simply not enough space on the screen to insert a weather card, so it'll certainly be interesting to see how the whole thing will work eventually.The search giant has remained tight-lipped on its plans so far, but given the flag was spotted by Reddit user shmykelsa in the stable version of Android Auto, we may not be too far from the moment the production release starts.In the meantime, Google also continues the Coolwalk rollout. Started in January, Coolwalk is the biggest Android Auto update in history, but it's shipped to devices out there in waves. Google uses a server-controlled rollout to activate the new feature because it wants to closely monitor reliability data. As such, the interface is enabled only on devices with very low likelihood of bugs. The company did not share an ETA as to when it plans to complete the rollout, but all Android Auto users should get access to Coolwalk by the end of the summer.If you're still running the old version of the app, you can do nothing to enable Coolwalk, as it all depends on Google's server-side switch. 60% of the sheet metal on this Nova SS was replaced Photo: YouTube Screenshot/AutotopiaLA It runs a TCI-engineered 4-link rear suspension Photo: YouTube Screenshot/AutotopiaLA Beautifully done interior Photo: YouTube Screenshot/AutotopiaLA Shawn of AutotopiaLA recently featured another great build with an exciting story. It's a supercharged 1966 Chevy Nova SS built to break necks.GM introduced the Nova in 1961 under the Chevrolet banner. It was an instant sensation in the market, quickly rising in its segment as a customer's favorite all the way to 1988 (over five generations).It was offered in four body types; a two-door sedan and hardtop, a four-door sedan, and a station wagon, with the top-of-the-line version as the Chevy Nova SS According to the builder, Jim McKay of Lakeside Speed and Shine, this beautifully customized classic is six years of work."It was about six or six and half years ago when we actually started the project. The owner was interested in basically his first Pro Touring car put together. So, they had a car. Parts of a car," Jim explained how the restoration process began.Nine out of ten times a car is dragged out of a cornfield or a junkyard, it never makes it out to completion. If you've restored a classic car, you understand how expensive, time-consuming, and draining the whole ordeal could turn.Classic car parts are becoming scarce by the day, and when they are available they cost an arm and a leg. Putting the entire thing together to perfection also takes time (patience is a virtue you'll be forced to uphold).That said. This Chevy Nova SS was a cornfield find (non-runner), and when Jim and his team finally got to work on it, more than 60% of the sheet metal in this car was replaced.The same care and precision used to assemble the exterior were repeated under the hood. The owner wanted a simple and clean unit and Jim and his Lakeside Speed and Shine team ensured the tucked engine bay was glistening to OCD levels "My guys back at the shop are absolutely OCD about electrical, wire connections we use, weather packs, mil-spec products, everything is heat shrink. All our stainless is done in-house, we make all of our own brake lines, we do all our own stainless exhaust systems, we do our own AC lines and plumbing in-house," Jim revealed.This 1966 Chevrolet Nova SS runs a built LS1 by Turn Key Engine Supply. It initially made about 400 hp (406 ps). Like all builds, there was a need for more speed , and that's where the performance mods came in. It's currently rated at 550 hp (558 ps).To harness all that power, the Lakeside Speed and Shine crew installed a Gearstar 4L65 transmission fitted with Bluetooth paddle shifters. It also runs an in-house 2.5 stainless steel exhaust with MagnaFlow mufflers.The suspension and the front inner fender wall sheet metal are a complete kit from TCI Engineering. They also used an IFS Pro Touring Front Suspension kit and a TCI-engineered 4-link rear suspension.Despite how white and crisp it looks on the exterior, Jim admits, they did minimal work body-wise. You'll notice it's not running stock handles but replacement kindig-it door handles. At the front, the team modified the original SS grill and cut out the black sections to eliminate the contrast for a crisp chrome and white finish.If you like the exterior, you'll fall in love with the interior. It's meticulously done , with no dips, pressure points, or movement of the stitches it's factory perfect.It has a grey and red combo German weave finish with customized Acura seats by Elegance Auto Interiors, complete with lumbar support, Alcantara headliner, full power adjustment, and, to top it off, a stainless steel steering wheel and paddle shifters.To add to the modern finish, they installed Dakota digital gauges and contrasted them with a Vintage Air AC system."The fitment is flawless, it's just beautiful, and driving it is wonderful, I've got to tell you," Shawn said, driving the Nova SS down the road.Every classic car builder is looking to get into four digits when it comes to the power output of their restomods. But Jim and his crew wanted to balance ride experience and aesthetics . This 1966 Chevy Nova SS isn't a show car or ripper it's a beautiful restomod perfect for a weekend cruise.So, does this classic restomod rip when you dig the throttle? We will let you figure that out for yourself in the video below. Photo: Burgess Photo: Burgess Photo: Burgess Few other "toys" are as expensive and luxurious as superyachts, for which reason they've come to be status symbols: the bigger the boat, the more important you are. But if we're to make a list of things more outrageous than commissioning a custom yacht, ordering a custom yacht and selling it after less than a year of ownership would probably be at the top.The exclusive world of the one-percenters is built on such outrageous, seemingly impulsive gestures that make sense for no one except for those directly involved. They add a certain luster to one's image, more prestige, and an aura of mystery, especially in the context of superyacht ownership , where so much emphasis is placed on the connection between man and his boat and the way in which "she is made to reflect his personality and personal tastes. You know you're really, truly rich when you're in a position to commission a famous shipyard with a custom project, wait for years to take delivery of it, and then sell it in less than a year, is what we're saying.Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum is extremely wealthy. His net worth is in the billions of dollars, either to the tune of almost $38 billion or a more modest but still mind-blowing $6 billion, depending on which Google search result you believe. As the CEO of the Emirates Group, which carries a fleet of over 270 aircraft and has billions of dollars of yearly revenue, he is among the wealthiest men in the Middle East, this time according to the more reliable Forbes.Al Maktoum doesn't need to prove anything to anyone, and he certainly doesn't need to employ gimmicks to attract attention and confirm his position among the world's wealthiest people. But his decision to sell a superyacht he had waited years to collect is still unusual and, because of it, noteworthy.This is Lusine , a lunar-themed, multi-awarded, fully custom superyacht Al Maktoum commissioned in 2018. At the time of its delivery in February 2022 , it was the biggest and most complex build ever coming out of Heesen Yachts, while also a most sophisticated and breathtaking floating palace. You hear these descriptors a lot in relation to superyachts, but never before have they been more appropriate.Lusine, internally named Project Falcon for its striking silhouette that brings to mind comparisons to the wing of a bird, is 197 feet (60 meters) in length, so not among the world's largest. Proving that size is not everything with a vessel of this kind, it offers almost 1,070 GT of interior volume, styled spectacularly by Sinot Design. The exterior design is by Omega Architects, with a steel hull and an aluminum superstructure, a dipped bow and a flat stern, and long and aggressive lines highlighted by oversize glazing.Despite the desire to craft an exterior inspired by a bird's wing, the interior is subtly lunar-themed. "Lusine means "moon in Armenian, so the inside is like a trip into outer space, but done in the most elegant and sophisticated fashion, combining actual pieces of lunar rock with onyx and rare marbles, finest Italian fabrics and leathers, custom furniture, and specially commissioned artwork.Many custom superyachts, especially those ordered by certain clients from the Middle East or Russia, will lean heavily into oriental, opulent styling that comes across as "too much" for the regular, non-rich eye. Lusine doesn't. The highly curated interiors are elegant, luxurious, and just the right amount of opulent, beautiful in a self-sufficient way: it's the interior of a superyacht that knows its worth and has nothing to prove. Lusine offers accommodation onboard for 16 guests across eight cabins, including the master suite on the sundeck, which offers panoramic views, access to a private terrace with a jacuzzi, another sun lounge that doubles as touch-and-go helipad, and the most spectacular en suite you're likely to see, with onyx countertops and silver hardware encrusted with Lalique crystals. Amenities range from two packed garages to several formal and informal dining and socializing areas, a bar, an office, a circular glass elevator, and a large beach club.But it's the styling of the interior that makes Lusine such a standout . As the video tour below will show, it combines warm neutrals with pops of dark navy and bleu celeste, hardwood parquet with walls of leather with mother-of-pearl inlays or silk layers, precious stones with plush fabrics, glass with metal, and more art pieces than you could count at first sight. Lusine is luxury defined not of the understated kind, but neither tacky. Performance is another one of Lusine's strong suits. Powered by twin MTU diesel engines with an SCR (selective catalytic reduction) system that helps reduce pollution, it is capable of a top speed of 17.5 knots (20.1 mph/32 kph) and offers noise and vibration levels beyond the industry standard. Range is a solid 4,200 nautical miles (4,833 miles/7,778 km) at a cruising speed of 13 knots (15 mph/24 kph).For all the reasons above, Lusine won Best Custom Yacht of the Year at the World Yacht Trophies 202e and a Judges' Commendation in the Displacement Motor Yacht category at the 2023 World Superyacht Awards. It has the looks, the brains, and the awards to show for both, which made the owner's decision to part with it all the more surprising. Lusine was listed in September 2022, mere months after the much-awaited delivery. It sold this week for an undisclosed amount, to an undisclosed owner represented by Andrew Bond from Fraser. Despite the initial reported price tag of $70 million, Lusine was asking $82 million. It's the work of the shop run by Filippo Barbacane that we're here to talk about today, and the bike he calls Quattrotempi is just what you'd expect from a guy with decades of experience in his trade! The project whose name means "four-stroke" in Italian may have been commissioned back in 2015, but it'll be worth looking at for many years to come.What the client wanted was a bit of Brat-style flavor and a lot of practicality, providing a Moto Guzzi 1000 SP as the starting point for this endeavor. With the donor on his workbench, Filippo wasted no time discarding every piece of factory bodywork he could get his hands on. Then, he proceeded to build a fresh aluminum outfit from scratch, and the result is a sight to behold.Placed center-stage is a stunning fuel tank whose profile is complemented by a thickly padded custom seat down south. We notice a pair of triangular side cover flanking this new saddle, and there's a tiny rear fender sitting out back. The latter is topped with an LED taillight and a bare-bones license plate bracket, but the turn signals are located a little further ahead on the subframe tubes.Rounding out the motorcycle's bodywork is an all-new front fender much smaller than the stock part, yet still large enough to keep road debris at bay. In terms of suspension upgrades, Officine Rossopuro had the Guzzi 's 35 mm (1.4-inch) Marzocchi forks rebuilt, while deleting the original shocks to make room for adjustable aftermarket units from Bitubo.The unsprung sector is now home to laced Borrani hoops enveloped in Metzeler rubber, with stopping power coming from dual 300 mm (11.8-inch) discs up north and a single 280 mm (11-inch) module at the rear. These rotors were supplied by Brembo, along with an array of other high-end braking components.At twelve o'clock, Quattrotempi makes use of a retro-looking headlight and minute blinkers, as well as a Daytona Velona dial, an aluminum Rizoma handlebar, and Tommaselli controls. The electronic goodies are connected to a custom-made wiring harness, which is completely hidden out of sight to keep things looking as clean as possible.Once he'd revamped the machine's V-twin engine, Filippo swapped the OEM airbox with a set of premium pod filters from BMC's catalog. At the exhaust side of things, you'll find bespoke headers working their way back to dual reverse megaphone mufflers. Lastly, there's that groovy paintwork an understated silver base joined by red accents and black pinstripes. Other than producing four-wheeled vehicles, what does Volvo have in common with smart? The answer is Geely, the Chinese automaker that purchased Volvo's car-making division from the Ford Motor Company back in 2010. Zhejiang Geely Holding Group owns many other brands, including Lotus.Geely further owns half of smart through a joint venture with Mercedes-Benz AG. Even though smarts are designed by Merc, the innards and software are developed by the Chinese partner. That's why both the #1 hatchback and #3 crossover are produced in the People's Republic of China rather than Hambach in France. smart's old factory now makes the Ineos Grenadier, a Land Rover Defender-styled off-road vehicle.Turning out attention back to Volvo Cars, the EX30 will be produced exclusively in China. The latest teaser pics reveal EX90 -inspired styling cues, and the interior can only be described as a minimalist's wet dream. The only interior shot provided by Volvo Cars today reveals a portrait-oriented touchscreen and no instrument cluster whatsoever. The car's vital information appears to be displayed by the upper part of the touchscreen, hence the range estimate and odometer.To the upper left of said touchscreen, we can further notice R, P, D, and something that clearly doesnt look like neutral. Another P can be seen on the button on the stalk on the right side of the steering wheel. Very Mercedes-esque, isn't it?The minimalist theme continues with the center console, which includes a huge cubby. Not only does it accommodate large items (think laptop bag), but the center console's rear end also integrates a slide-out drawer for the rear passengers. The front end, meanwhile, slides out to reveal two cup holders.As for the elephant in the room, well, prospective customers will have to make do without physical controls for the air conditioning and all that jazz. It's an increasingly common theme nowadays, and it shouldn't come as a surprise. Touchscreen and touch-sensitive buttons are cheaper to develop, produce, and integrate than their physical counterparts. On the upside, an AI-powered voice assistant should be capable of setting the AC exactly as you like it.In the attached release, Volvo also waxes lyrical about an audio system inspired by home audio design. Higher up the spectrum, prospective customers will be offered a Harman Kardon high-end audio system for a few more greenbacks.Harman Kardon is named after Sidney Harman and Bernard Kardon. Although based in Connecticut, bear in mind that Harman is owned by Samsung. The American company also owns the likes of AKG, Infinity, JBL, and Mark Levinson.Equipped with trim pieces and upholstery made from recycled materials, the EX30 slots under the XC40 in terms of footprint. We further expect rear-wheel drive as standard and a dual-motor option, just like the smart #3. The Brabus specification develops 422 ponies on full song, which means that Volvo's new electric utility vehicle also cranks out 400-plus ponies. This satellite picture by Planet Labs PBC shows activity at a newly built launch pad at the Sohae Satellite Launching Station near Tongchang-ri, North Korea, May 30. AP-Yonhap North Korea fired what it claims to be a "space launch vehicle" southward Wednesday, but it fell into the Yellow Sea after an "abnormal" flight, the South Korean military said, in a botched launch that defied international criticism and warnings. The North confirmed the failure, saying its new "Chollima-1" rocket carrying a military reconnaissance satellite, "Malligyong-1," fell into the sea due to the "abnormal starting of the second-stage engine," according to its official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). It plans to conduct a second launch as soon as possible, the KCNA said. Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said it detected the launch from Tongchang-ri on the North's west coast at 6:29 a.m. and the projectile fell into waters some 200 kilometers west of the South's southwestern island of Eocheong following its flight over the waters far west of the border island of Baengnyeong. The South Korean military identified an apparent part of the North's vehicle and retrieved it, the JCS added. The part could shed light on the makeup of the rocket and the North's technological progress, observers said. The North notified Japan and the International Maritime Organization of its plan earlier this week to launch a satellite between May 31 and June 11 despite criticism that it would violate U.N. Security Council resolutions banning any launch using ballistic missile technology. The recalcitrant regime last launched a rocket carrying what it called a "Kwangmyongsong-4" satellite in February 2016. After the latest launch, the presidential office convened an emergency standing committee session of the National Security Council, which condemned the launch as a "serious provocation" that threatens peace on the Korean Peninsula and in the international community. President Yoon Suk Yeol was immediately briefed on the launch and continued to be updated in real time, according to his office. The United States denounced the North's launch, the White House said, noting President Joe Biden and his security team are assessing the situation in coordination with the allies and partners. "The United States strongly condemns the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) for its launch using ballistic missile technology, which is a brazen violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions, raises tensions, and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region and beyond," National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge said in a statement. DPRK is the North's official name. In a separate release, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command stressed the "ironclad" security commitment to South Korea and Japan, saying it will continue to monitor the situation. Most operators in the global aviation industry agree that SAF is the best answer for drastically reducing flight emissions as soon as possible. It's sustainable, ready to be used, and, most importantly, it doesn't require any technical modifications to the existing engines or aircraft. Still, there's a catch. The operators who will enjoy wider access to SAF supply will have a clear advantage over those who need to import it.At the moment, Australia has no domestic SAF market, despite being one of the most prominent supporters of this alternative fuel. Qantas is determined to change this by investing in local industry and lobbying for government support.Last year, the Aussie airline took a major step in this direction by launching a dedicated SAF partnership with Airbus, worth AUD $290 million ($188 million). This year, it's adding AUD $110 million ($71 million) for a variety of zero-emission solutions, including carbon offsets, technology innovations for increased efficiency, and off-shore SAF production.The result of this additional investment is the new AUD $400 million ($260 million) Qantas Climate Fund, claiming to be the largest of its kind in the aviation industry worldwide.Qantas' Climate Fund will be geared toward reaching net zero emissions by 2050. Until then, the operator will work gradually on reducing emission levels, mainly by increasing the percentage of green jet fuel used for regular flights. Having enough SAF to do that is essential for zero emissions, which is why developing a domestic green fuel industry is vital.Qantas hopes to have 10% SAF in its overall fuel mix by the end of this decade and reach 60% by 2050. At the moment, all of the airline's SAF comes from overseas. Starting this year, ten million liters (2.6 million gallons) of it will be used annually for flights out of London. By 2025, Qantas flights out of California will also be partially powered by SAF, requiring a supply of 20 million liters (5.2 million gallons) per year.However, Qantas can't single-handedly build a domestic SAF industry from scratch. In places like the US, Japan, and a few European countries, governments are introducing specific regulations, such as a SAF blending mandate, which indirectly encourages production.Qantas also believes that Australia has tremendous potential when it comes to natural, renewable sources for making alternative fuels, mainly feedstock. Decades from now, it might even become one of the most powerful suppliers in the region and beyond. Carmakers had developed a good relationship with National Day Calendar, as Volkswagen showed recently when it announced the International Volkswagen Bus Day on June 2. Back in 2017, another company named Emerging Prairie had the brilliant idea to found National Autonomous Vehicle Day to celebrate the advances in autonomous driving. Coincidently, it is celebrated annually on May 31, the same day the Titanic was launched and Clint Eastwood was born, and, go figure, at least one carmaker remembered.Stellantis used this year's National Autonomous Vehicle Day to offer a glimpse of its future generation of advanced off-road driving technology. That's a bit unexpected, considering that climbing the trails of Moab is something people do to prove they can overcome challenges and conquer the wilderness. Doing so without touching the wheel is no better than riding a fairground rollercoaster. Still fun, but not worth spending more than a few minutes of your time.Developing an off-road autonomous driving system is unusual, but it could turn into something useful, given that Stellantis owns the Jeep brand. Stellantis claims that Jeep is at the forefront of developing automated off-road driving technology. The system was installed in two Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrids, which set off to Moab, Utah, to test the technology under the supervision of Neda Cvijetic, Head of AI & Autonomous Driving at Stellantis.The company that owns the Jeep brand claims its autonomous-driving technology "can enhance the experiences of seasoned off-roaders, as well of customers who are new to driving the trail." Stellantis's autonomous driving technology will also be helpful in everyday driving situations, so it's not an exclusive off-road feature. It is, in turn, an exclusive Jeep thing.Stellantis doesn't offer details about the new off-road autonomous driving system. Still, Christian Meunier, Jeep brand CEO, says the technology will have real-life applications on and off the trail in a wide range of driving conditions. The video presentation shows a Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe climbing a hill both with and without a driver behind the wheel. This makes it less of a driver-assist system and more of autonomous driving technology. The system is smart enough to choose a suitable path considering the terrain and takes care of the driving. The video shows that the car can also be controlled from a tablet outside the vehicle.Stellantis does a good job of confusing people about electric vehicles because the video ends with the message, "4xe, freedom is electric." As you probably know, despite having a battery that charges from the grid, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe also has a combustion engine under the hood, which makes it a plug-in hybrid, not an electric vehicle. BEV Photo: Tesla Photo: Bob Atkins Photo: Joaquim Rodrigues All Tesla employees have to agree not to go to court should they have any legal dispute with the company. This is what made it so hard for Cristina Balan to sue Tesla for defamation after it publicly accused her of embezzlement and kickback in a Huffington Post story. The Romanian engineer is now fighting breast cancer while trying to clean her name. And she is far from being the only example of how this compulsory arrangement can prevent people from pursuing adequate compensation for Tesla's mistakes.Owen Diaz only got to sue Tesla for racism because he was a contract worker. Melvin Berry was an employee and had to go to arbitration for the same complaint. Themaker lost and had to pay him $1 million. Diaz was initially supposed to receive $136.9 million, but Tesla managed to reduce that to $3.2 million. Assuming that this is the final decision in Diaz's case, it is still theoretically three times more than Berry was granted. Ultimately, he received only $266,000 because more than $755,000 went to attorneys and legal fees.Any of the more than 100,000 employees listed on the Tesla files would have to go to arbitration to require the company to fix its data protection policies and pay them for exposing their information. It is more likely that regulators will be the ones punishing the BEV maker for the leak if any penalty happens, mind you. In California, the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) took the initiative to sue the company on behalf of its employees.Regarding Tesla customers, Bob Atkins recently shared with me a bitter discovery. When he tried to help his mother-in-law join the class action that compares the BEV maker's over-the-air (OTA) updates to hacker attacks , he received this automatic message from the attorneys' website:"Please respond to this email if you are not bound by a Tesla arbitration clause. You are not bound by a Tesla arbitration clause if you (1) purchased from a private seller/dealer, (2) opted out of arbitration, (3) already submitted a case for arbitration, or (4) if your sales agreement did not contain an arbitration clause."Atkins discovered that his mother-in-law did not reject the arbitration provision when she took delivery of her 2014 Tesla Model S.How many of Tesla's customers do that? We'd ask the company about the percentage of buyers that refuse that clause, but it abolished its PR department years ago. That said, it is not unlikely that most people with their data included in the Tesla Files cannot sue the BEV maker. Sadly for them, their cases will be another reminder of the precautions they have to take before buying their electric vehicles from Tesla. Apart from a thorough inspection of the brand-new car to make sure it does not have serious defects or damages, they must also remember to check the box that sets them free from arbitration as the only legal remedy available. The Tesla Files case is a good example of why that is necessary. Unfortunately, it is also not the only one.BMS_u029 error messages are emerging mostly after the MCUv1 recall . Some owners get that in an even worse circumstance: after paying to have the MCUv2 computer because they want their Model S units to have the most recent hardware possible. Little did many of them know that it would also lead them to need a new battery pack for at least $15,000 a pop. The lawsuit shows these customers want a better explanation from Tesla than just crappy bad luck with components that can fail for six major causes, including water ingress.The Tesla Files also mention crashes and Autopilot issues such as phantom braking and sudden unintended acceleration (SUA) episodes. So far, the best explanation for them is a pedal confusion that apparently emerges from how the software makes the vehicle move without driver intervention. In forums, you can see some commenters making fun of the drivers who claim SUA caused them to crash their Teslas.I have no doubt some of the 2,400 people who complained about the problem (until March 2022) eventually did the same. Or that the ones mocking their fellow Tesla owners will see themselves in the same boat. It will be inevitable unless the BEV maker applies the same recall it performed in China to the US. The deal is that none of them will get to challenge Tesla in court if they forgot to tick the box rejecting arbitration clauses. All they have left is to pray for regulators to take measures. kWh Photo: ElectReon Photo: ElectReon via Youtube Photo: Electreon EV Photo: ElectReon Photo: Electreon We completed our 100-Hour drive! Thank you for watching us break the EV Range Anxiety!! And thank you to our 55 Drivers!!! pic.twitter.com/fxjfRUD4q0 Electreon (@Electreon) May 25, 2023 That exceeded the Israeli company's early expectations. When Electreon announced its intentions, it expected the car to run 1,500 km (932 mi) in five days. In the end, it achieved a better electric-only range in less time than initially planned: 100 hours are equivalent to four days and four hours. It would be great news, but there's a catch. I'll get there soon.What seems to make Electreon's system different from other solutions is that its proprietary inductive charging method allows cars to be recharged in movement or parked. In the 219-yard (200-meter) track the company built with its charging coils, only 25% of the route (54.8 yards, or 50 meters) is electrified. While this may not seem like much, it allowed the 18-battery pack on Toyota's plug-in hybrid to remain charged during the 100 hours that the test demanded.Electreon said it chose a PHEV to prove that electric cars do not need a massive battery pack to offer range anywhere they go. All they need is to be able to charge wirelessly with its technology. It is tempting to say that the idea is fantastic, but not before answering some crucial questions.A trivial one relates to safety. According to the Israeli company, the coils only activate when a vehicle compatible with the system moves over them. That ensures they "will never transfer energy or radiation to unlicensed vehicles, people or animals passing by." Nice, but how effective is the energy transfer? What are the losses involved with the process? There is no answer to that on the company's website.The main doubt the system poses is how much it costs to install it on public roads. Supposing it is affordable, there is a legal concern about how a private company can explore the use of a public road to sell its charging services. It will possibly have to pay the government a fee to do so.One application that could make things easier for the company is focusing on city buses. Instead of using massive battery packs or air rails, they could adopt Electreon's system. As cities usually take care of these buses, they may allow Electreon to put their coils on several streets and avenues where they may also service electric passenger cars. Once the concept is proven and city officials are already used to it, the Israeli company could expand its offer.To be quite honest, a vehicle with an 18-kWh battery pack, such as the RAV4 Prime already has enough juice for most people's daily driving needs. That said, Electreon's technology would be more useful on highways. Again, offering its services to trucks may allow the Israeli company to also charge passenger vehicles. Without having to carry massive battery packs, both buses and trucks could carry heavier loads. However, another crucial question emerges: at what speed did the RAV4 Prime drive to achieve that range? Unluckily for Electreon, that one is easy to calculate.If you divide 1,206 miles by 100 hours, you get an average speed of 12.06 mph (19.42 kph). Here's the catch: at such low speeds on a flat track, even the 18 kWh the Toyota's battery pack offers would allow it to break a record. Just check the ridiculous marketing stunt General Motors presented with a Chevrolet Boltin Brazil: the average speed was 21.7 mph (35 kph) for it to reach 560 miles (901.8 km) of range. You'll get a better average in traffic jams. There's no way anyone will drive so slowly.Perhaps this system is only feasible for city buses, which have a low average speed due to the multiple stops they have to make every day. The Israeli company offers a calculator on its website that presents the cost savings on charging BEV fleets with its technology.Supposing you had a conventional fleet of 30 electric buses with a daily demand of 600 kWh per vehicle and idle times of 6 hours to charge, you'd save $1,874,700 upfront in infrastructure costs and $$4,870,112 in total initial investments. The page does not explain these calculations or if they include installing the charging infrastructure anywhere, such as in the bus garage.The truth is that Electreon still has to prove a vehicle such as the RAV4 Prime can achieve a high range at high speeds. Even if that is possible, it also depends on the necessary infrastructure, as fuel cell vehicles do when it comes to hydrogen stations. Are Electreon charging points more or less expensive than such stations? How much does it cost to charge cars with the company's method?The appeal of using smaller battery packs only works in areas where Electreon chargers are present. If vehicles compatible with that wireless charging system have to travel to places that do not have it, these BEVs will still need to count on their own resources. In that regard, FCEVs have a notable advantage: they carry the energy they will demand to keep moving.A hybrid system with these two solutions could eventually get rid of big battery packs while ensuring long ranges. It may be the case that a genuinely sustainable carbon-neutral transportation matrix depends on using the best each of these systems has to offer. As long as we can save weight and resources for environmental, efficiency, and safety matters, all solutions are welcome. The Sotk mine, which employs more than 700 people and is located on the volatile border with Azerbaijan, has stood idle since an upsurge in skirmishes between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces in mid-April. Its employees say that they have repeatedly come under fire and been evacuated after trying to return to work. Fighting at that section of the Armenian-Azerbaijani border escalated on May 11-12, involving exchanges of artillery fire and resulting in several casualties from both sides. The situation of constant danger for the employees of the enterprise persists for more than a month, read a statement released by the mine operator, GPM Gold, late on Tuesday. As a consequence, further work of the Sotk open pit has become impossible due to circumstances beyond the Company's control. The subsidiary of Russias GeoProMining group added that it has therefore decided to stop the operation of the open-pit mine and put its workers on unpaid leave. Hovannes Harutiunian, an Armenian deputy minister of local government and infrastructures, predicted GPM Golds decision earlier this month. Harutiunian told lawmakers in Yerevan that the company plans to switch to underground mining due to the periodical border clashes and Azerbaijani gunfire targeting its open-pit facilities. The GPM Gold statement said nothing about that, however. Nor did it shed light on the uncertain future of GeoProMinings gold smelter located in Ararat, a town 50 kilometers south of Yerevan. The company already lost control over a large part of the mountainous areas gold deposits following the 2020 war in Nagorno-Karabakh and the resulting Armenian withdrawal from the Kelbajar district bordering Sotk. This appears to explain why total taxes paid by it plummeted from 20.8 billion drams ($53 million) in 2021 to just 3.2 billion drams in 2022. 31 May 2023 19:00 (UTC+04:00) Elnur Enveroglu Read more Baku Expo Center was a venue for the 28th International Caspian Oil & Gas Exhibition and the 11th Caspian International Power and Green Energy Exhibition within the framework of the Baku Energy Week. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev attended the opening of the exhibitions, where the US Secretary of State for Energy Resources Geoffrey Pyatt, UK Prime Minister's Trade Envoy to Azerbaijan Baroness Emma Nicholson, Director for Energy Policy, Strategy and Coordination at the European Commissions Directorate-General for Energy Christina Lobillo Borrero and other high-level representatives participated. As mentioned by the President of Azerbaijan the Baku energy week is one of the leading international events in the energy sector. The importance of the event can be emphasized in many ways. One of them is that such an exhibition organized in Azerbaijan is received with great interest by the leading state leaders of the USA and Europe. It is a fact that due to the changing geopolitical and geostrategic conditions, Azerbaijan is considered one of the leading energy centers in recent times. 29 years ago, when the contract of the century was signed, Azerbaijan started a great era in establishing economic relations with the West for the first time in the South Caucasus. President Ilham Aliyev, who mentioned that period in his speech at the opening of the event, emphasized that since 1994, economic relations have been successfully continued in a more diversified form. For almost 30 years, we have successfully cooperated in the energy area. And now, not only in energy area, we are diversifying our cooperation. The US and the UK governments have always been very supportive to all the initiatives of Azerbaijan to develop its resources of the Caspian sea, the President said in his address at the event. Yes, the head of state rightly emphasized that the oil contract of the century, signed in 1994, became the guarantor of Azerbaijan's economic and political freedom. Signing the Contract of the Century in 1994 was the only step which could provide success, sustainable development, economic independence, and as a result, political independence. It is also important to emphasize that the oil contract of the century is related to the name of National Leader Heydar Aliyev. For this reason, it is not a coincidence that the event coincides with the 100th anniversary of the great leader's birth. "This year's "Baku Energy Week" coincides with the celebration of the 100th anniversary of Heydar Aliyev, the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people and the founder of the independent Azerbaijan state. This is a remarkable event. The emergence of the energy dialogue platform and exhibition activities in Azerbaijan is associated with the exceptional role of Heydar Aliyev," the President said. Values given to Azerbaijan as a reliable partner In addition, the Energy Week event held at the international level in Baku once again proved that the economic connection between Azerbaijan and the West has deeper roots. During his speech, President Ilham Aliyev mentioned the message that Azerbaijan is the most reliable partner in the field of energy, and also demonstrated the power of trust and confidence in Azerbaijan in providing a kind of energy security. So, we really work as a team because we have one target - how to strengthen energy security, how to help each other to overcome difficulties, whether they are situative difficulties or can be difficulties of strategic origin. Of course, we are very proud that the European Union high-ranking officials called Azerbaijan a reliable partner, which is true, and call Azerbaijan a Pan-European gas supplier, which also becomes true. Today, thanks to this trust and confidence, Azerbaijan is considering increasing the gas export to Europe, as well as expanding its scope. Due to some geopolitical realities, Azerbaijan enters the new alliance as one of the main energy suppliers of Europe. Of course, this is a solidarity ring, as the president mentioned. The project called solidarity ring including Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia envisages additional interconnectors, the President said. The expansion of the scope of energy supply is also a constant increase in the demand for Azerbaijani gas. The head of state notes that Azerbaijan has undertaken to supply gas to 10 countries. Of course, to meet all these needs, Azerbaijan needs to implement large-scale projects. But today, all interests are focused on green energy. At such a level, oil and gas become secondary. However, as President Ilham Aliyev emphasized, everything should also be considered from a realistic point of view. Id like to underline that it will be also important for international financial institutions to support these projects. Though we know that now, with respect to the green energy transition, some international financial institutions stop financing projects based on fossil fuel. I think, we need to treat all the issues from realistic point of view. Today, it is clear that without natural gas supplies, energy security cannot be provided to the degree it is needed, the Azerbaijani President added. President Ilham aliyev also touched on expanding projects within TANAP and TAP concerning Azerbaijans plan to increase the gas supply to Europe. There are a lot of things to do. We need to expand TANAP and TAP. We need to have unimpeded access to other European pipeline system including trans-Balkan pipeline system. And there must be more interconnectors in Europe and it is going, the President said adding that the big investement is another vital segment of such a giant project. All these issues must be implemented in coordination because we have to undertake substantial investments. Therefore, of course, we must be sure that the gas - which we extract additionally and did not plan, but decided to extract because of the growing need in Europe - will find its consumers. All that definitely will need continuation of the team work. As I said, though the Southern Gas Corridor project is finished but the Advisory Council on the Southern Gas Corridor takes place every year in February and will take again place in Baku in February because we have new participants. We have new ideas and new plans. If we implement all what we planned so far successfully, we will be successful in the future, the Azerbaijani President noted. --- Elnur Enveroglu is AzerNews deputy editor-in-chief, follow him on @ElnurMammadli1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 11:46 (UTC+04:00) In this article, I would like to briefly describe the procedures and statutory periods/terms in connection with commercial litigation (dispute resolution) in Azerbaijan. Acceptance/refusal of the claim If the court does not return the statement of claim or refuses to accept it within 5 days of its receipt, it is deemed to have been accepted. Objection against the claim (defence) An objection to the claim must be submitted to the court and to the claimant within 20 days upon receipt of the copy of claim. Counterclaim In general, counterclaim must be submitted within 20 days. Interim measures An application on interim security measure can be submitted to the court before filing of a claim with the court, together with the claim, or within the course of court proceedings. If the application on interim measure is submitted before submission of a statement of claim, then the court may order on application of interim measure within a period of not more than 1 month. An application on interim measure is heard by the judge resolving the dispute in a separate proceeding without delay after the day of its entry. Preparatory hearings A preparatory hearing is held not later than 40 days upon entry of the statement of claim to the court. All related participants of the case must be notified at least 5 business days prior to the hearing. Submission of the documents to the defendant The court must ensure official submission of the statement of claim and attached documents to the defendant within 5 days upon the statement of claim has been accepted to be heard by the court. Period of time for making the decision A case must be heard within a reasonable time, but not later than the following periods: 3 months in relation to the disputes arising out of mortgage agreements and bankruptcy proceedings; 4 months other disputes (inluding commercial disputes). Due to the number of the participants of the case or complexity of organization of the hearing, these periods may be extended for a period of not more than 2 months based on the justified order of the court. Notice to the participants Participants of the case must be notified at least 5 business days prior to the hearing. Limits to adjournment Court hearing cannot be adjourned more than three times. Expert opinions Expert must issue its opinion within 1 month upon receipt of the court order on the appointment of the expert by the judicial expertise center. Draft of the court decision Once the final part of the decision is announced, the decision must be drawn up within 10 business days. Submission of the decision to the participants The decision of the court must be placed in the electronic cabinets via electronic court information system within 3 days. Entry into force The decision enters into force within one month upon its officially receipt by the participants of the case, if the court decision has not been appealed. Appeal against the court decision The court decision can be appealed within one month upon officially submission thereof. The appeal together with attached documents and case file is sent by first instance court to the court of appeal within 7 days upon expiry of the appeal period. Once the appeal is received by the court of appeal, its admissibility is checked within 15 days. Objections and explanations regarding the appeal Participants of the case are entitled to submit their objections against or explanations related to the appeal within 20 days upon receipt of the copy of appeal. Period of time for making the decision in the court of appeal The decision must be made within 3 months upon receipt of the case file by the court of appeal. Entry into force If no appeal filed against the decision of the court of appeal, the decision enters into force after 2 months have passed since it was officially submitted to the participants of the case. Cassation appeal The decision of the court of appeal can be appealed within 2 months upon officially submission thereof. The cassation appeal together with attached documents and case file is sent by court of appeal to the Supreme Court within 7 days upon expiry of the appeal period. Once the case file is received by the Supreme Court, its admissibility is checked within 15 days. Objections and explanations regarding the cassation appeal Participants of the case are entitled to submit their objections against or explanations related to the cassation appeal within 20 days upon receipt of the copy of the cassation appeal. Period of time for making the decision in the Supreme Court The decision must be made within 3 months upon the receipt of the case file by the Supreme Court. Entry into force The decision of the Supreme Court enters into force upon its issuance (in other words, with immediate effect). Submission of the decision The full text of the decision of the Supreme Court must be sent to the participants of the case within 1 month from the day of its issuance. About the author: Fuad Gashamov is a professional lawyer with over 13 years of experience in consulting industry. He mainly specializes in dispute resolution, real estate, contracts, regulatory, intellectual property and compliance. He is the founding partner at Legalize Law Firm. He is a member of the Bar Association since 2014 and also a member of the newly established Business Committee of the Bar Association. Fuad Gashamov is also a member of the Commission on Business Environment and International Ratings of the Republic of Azerbaijan Enforcement of contracts, resolution of disputes, closure and bankruptcy of an enterprise, judicial system and rule of law. For more information about the author please see the following link: https://www.legalize.az/en/team/fuadgashamov --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 16:55 (UTC+04:00) One of the factors that positively affects the activity of an entrepreneur is the presence of a trademark that distinguishes his goods or services from the goods or services of other entrepreneurs. However, it is not enough to have a trademark, the most important issue is to register it in accordance with the requirements of the legislation. Registration of trademarks in the Republic of Azerbaijan is carried out by the Intellectual Property Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (hereinafter referred to as Agency) according to the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 504-IQ of June 12, 1998 On trademarks and geographical indications (hereinafter referred to as Law) and Decision No. 166 of October 15, 1999 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan On the approval of the Rules of the submission and examination of the application for the registration of trademarks. What are the procedures for trademark registration in the Republic of Azerbaijan? Trademark registration in the Republic of Azerbaijan generally includes the following procedures: Submission of an application The application for trademark registration can be submitted by the entrepreneur to the Agency in the following manner: Directly; Through a patent attorney registered in the Agency. Unless other rules are provided in the interstate agreements to which the Republic of Azerbaijan is a party, foreign legal entities and individuals, with the exception of those performing entrepreneurial activities in the Republic of Azerbaijan, conduct legally significant matters with the Agency only through patent attorneys. The application is submitted in the Azerbaijani language and other documents included in the application may be submitted in Azerbaijani or other languages, but their translation into Azerbaijani must be submitted to the Agency within 2 (two) months from the date of submission of the application. Examination Examination of the application consists of preliminary examination and examination (in essence). Preliminary examination The preliminary examination is carried out within 1 (one) month from the date of receipt of the application to the Agency. During the preliminary examination, the content of the application, the availability of necessary documents, as well as compliance with the specified requirements are checked. Based on the results of the preliminary examination, the entrepreneur is notified that the application has been accepted for consideration or rejected. Examination (in essence) Examination (in essence) is carried out within 6 (six) months after the completion of the preliminary examination. At this time, the compliance of the claimed mark with the requirements of the Law is checked and its priority is determined. * Based on the motion of the entrepreneur and the payment of the service fee determined by the Agency, the examination (in essence) is conducted within 1 (one) month. Based on the results of the examination, the Agency makes a substantiated decision to register or refuse to register the trademark and sends it to the entrepreneur within 10 (ten) days. The Agency sends an appropriate notification to the entrepreneur before making a rejection decision based on the result of the examination. If the entrepreneur does not agree with the result of the examination, he can submit his evidences within 2 (two) months from the date of receiving the notification. When the entrepreneur does not agree with the decision of the examination, he can file an objection with the Board of Appeals of the Agency within 3 (three) months from the date of receiving the decision on the condition of paying the state duty. Registration of a trademark in the state registry and issuance of a certificate When a decision on trademark registration is made by the Agency based on the result of the examination, the trademark is registered after the entrepreneur pays the state duty within 4 (four) months. If the entrepreneur does not pay the state duty within the specified period, an additional 4 (four) months is granted to him on the condition of paying an additional state duty. When these conditions are not fulfilled, the decision of the examination is considered cancelled and the application is considered recalled. Within 1 (one) month after the payment of the state duty, the trademark is registered in the state registry by the Agency. The trademark certificate is issued by the Agency within 1 (one) month from the date of registration of the trademark in the state registry. The trademark certificate confirms the fact of registration of the claimed mark as a trademark, its priority, the exclusive right of the entrepreneur to the goods and services provided, and contains a description of the registered sign. How long does a trademark registration remain in force? Trademark registration is valid for 10 (ten) years from the date of submission of the application to the Agency. This period can be extended for a period of 10 (ten) years each time without limitation by paying a fee based on the entrepreneur's application. After the expiration of the validity period of the registration, a 6 (six) month deferment period is granted to the entrepreneur for its extension on the condition of paying an additional state duty. Information on the extension of the registration period is included in the registry and certificate and published in the official bulletin. What is our recommendation to entrepreneurs? Registration of trademarks confirms the exclusive right of entrepreneurs and strengthens the position of entrepreneurs to fight against illegal use of their trademarks by third parties. For this reason, we recommend entrepreneurs to register their trademarks in accordance with the requirements of the legislation in order to minimize the risks they may face during their activities. About the author: Emin Musayev graduated from the Faculty of Law at the Baku State University with a bachelor's degree in 2019 and from the Faculty of Intellectual Property Law at the Baku State University with a master's degree in 2022. He is a lawyer with over 2 years of experience in the area of law and specializes in contracts, intellectual property, corporate law, migration, public procurement. He is a lawyer at Legalize Law Firm. For more information about the author please see the following link: https://www.legalize.az/en/team/emin-musayev --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 10:19 (UTC+04:00) Visiting President of the State of Israel Isaac Herzog and his spouse Michal Herzog have visited the Heydar Aliyev Center. Director of the Heydar Aliyev Center Anar Alakbarov informed the President about the Center. The Heydar Aliyev Center houses a conference hall with three auditoriums, a library and a museum. The project is intended to play an integral role in the intellectual life of the city. Located close to the city center, the site plays a pivotal role in the redevelopment of Baku. The Center is engaged in studying and promoting the statehood policy and heritage of national leader Heydar Aliyev. He was told that the center implements projects to popularize history and culture of Azerbaijan all over the world. The Israeli President viewed the exhibition of official cars used by Great Leader Heydar Aliyev from 1969 and 2003. The President signed the guest book. Isaac Herzog and his spouse got familiar the Pearls of Azerbaijan exhibition, highlighting rich history and culture of Azerbaijan, as well as unique exhibits related to the abundant natural resources, centuries-old history and cultural heritage of the country. They also saw the Mini Azerbaijan exhibitions of tiny models of historical monuments and buildings in the regions and capital. Then, the Israeli President and his spouse familiarized themselves with the carpet collection Azerbaijani carpet dance of stitch. They were presented with the book Azerbaijani carpet dance of stitch narrating about Azerbaijani carpets. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 10:26 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has attended the opening of the 28th International Caspian Oil & Gas Exhibition (Caspian Oil & Gas) and the 11th Caspian International Power and Green Energy Exhibition (Caspian Power) within the framework of the Baku Energy Week at the Baku Expo Center. The event moderator, UK ICA group Board Advisor Russell Taylor said in his remarks: -Your Excellency, President Aliyev, Distinguished guests. Ladies and gentleman. Its an honor for me to be here today, on behalf of the Baku Energy week organizing committee. This year we are delighted to see that there are 320 different companies from 35 different countries and thats an increase of 25-30 percent on this time last year. This year Baku energy week also coincides with another significant date - the 100th anniversary of the birth of the National Leader of Azerbaijan Heydar Aliyev. President Aliyev has signed an order to declare 2023 as the year of Heydar Aliyev in this country. Significant occasion will be represented in the calendars and the programs of all of the exhibitions. There is a special stand outside dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Great Leader. We would, of course, like to extend our deepest gratitude to the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan and to SOCAR, the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic, for their support for Baku Energy Week. Your Excellency we would also like to extend our gratitude to you for supporting the event in Azerbaijan. Your traditional participation in the opening ceremony shows your commitment to this important and renowned event in the international energy industrys calendar. Ladies and gentlemen, I wish everyone great success, and fruitful work at the Baku Energy Week. Thank you and I will leave floor to your Excellency, Mr. President. Please. XXX The head of state addressed the opening ceremony. Address by President Ilham Aliyev - Dear ladies and gentlemen. Dear guests. Welcome to the Baku Energy Week. First of all, Id like to express gratitude to organizers of this important event. As it was mentioned already, its almost 30 years since 1994, the Caspian oil and Gas exhibition has been helping Azerbaijan to present its potential to international investors. Back in 1994, it was just the beginning of Heydar Aliyevs oil strategy. As it was already mentioned, this year we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founder of the independent Azerbaijan. And 1994 was not only the year of the first Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition, but also the year of signing the contract of the century, which changed completely the situation in our country, attracted investments, brought economic stability, and led to a more prosperous future of Azerbaijan. 1994 was the year when the 1st Karabakh War ended and a ceasefire agreement was signed. After just 2-3 months, the contract of the century was signed. So, Azerbaijan was considered to be a very risky place. It was newly independent. Independence age was less than 3 years. Not many people in the world knew about our country - where it was situated. And the country was just in the phase of transformation from the Soviet system to market economy. Also, occupation of our territory, a million refugees, and the civil war - all these, of course, were not helpful to investors to come and to invest. So, it took a lot of efforts to persuade our partners - some of them have been partners for almost 30 years like BP, and other members of the 1st consortium - to come and invest in Azerbaijan. We didnt have export pipelines. We didnt have any infrastructure. Even civilian infrastructure was absolutely outdated. Under those circumstances, signing the contract of the century in 1994 was the only step, which could provide success, sustainable development, economic independence, and as a result, political independence. So, the Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition in 1994 was the first event, which presented Azerbaijan to the energy community of the world. So we are very grateful to organizers for continuous support. I would like to underline that the Baku energy week is, I think, one of the leading international events in the energy area. To prove my words, it's only enough to mention who is sending the messages to our events - President of United States Biden and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Sunak. So this really is an indicator of a global importance of our event. Using this opportunity I'd like to express my gratitude to the President of the United States, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, to their representatives at this event for kind messages and inspiring words. For almost 30 years, we have successfully cooperated in the energy area. And now, not only in energy area, we are diversifying our cooperation. The US and the UK governments have always been very supportive to all the initiatives of Azerbaijan to develop its resources of the Caspian sea. First, oil and then gas were very helpful in helping us to build energy transportation infrastructure. which actually changed the energy map of Eurasia with oil and gas pipelines. Today, we, as producers, transitors and of course, consumers in Azerbaijan, feel ourselves much safer. Energy security now is definitely a matter of national security and that may be in the top list of national security agenda of the countries. I am glad to see the representatives from European Union. As you know, EU and Azerbaijan signed the MoU on strategic partnership in the energy field last July in Baku, which is being successfully implemented. We started already and continue the energy dialogue. Together with EU we are co-chairs of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council, which takes place every February in Baku and is instrumental in coordination of all our efforts. Even now, when Southern Gas Corridor already is totally functioning, still, we have new challenges, new tasks. Therefore, the EU-Azerbaijan cooperation has a lot of positive moments in the history and a lot of potential achievements in the future. We feel ourselves as part of the huge transformation process, transformation in energy sector, and of course, Azerbaijan wants here also not to be left behind. We want to be among the front runners when it comes to the area of renewables. And Im glad to see that more companies who are involved in renewable sources of energy production are present at our event and, I am sure, as the time passes, the number of this companies will be more and more. So, we started building the oil pipeline, and investing with our partners in oil fields, then gas pipeline and gas fields. The Southern Gas Corridor is our joint historical achievement with 3 500 kilometers of integrated pipeline system, which is an important tool to provide energy security and energy diversification. Speaking at the Caspian oil and gas show, opening ceremonies, every time I was many times saying that energy security is not only diversification of routes - it is diversification of sources. And now, I think everybody clearly sees that. In our case, it is both diversification of routes, diversification of sources and also very committed teamwork between companies, countries, international financial institutions. So we really work as a team because we have one target - how to strengthen energy security, how to help each other to overcome difficulties, whether they are situational difficulties or can be difficulties of strategic origin. We are very proud that the European Union high-- ranking officials called Azerbaijan, a reliable partner, which is true and call Azerbaijan a Pan-European gas supplier, which also becomes true. If you look at their events, which happened since the last Baku energy week last year, we'll see that more European countries are actively cooperating with Azerbaijan. I can mention just several of important milestones, which happened after we met here last time. In July, the European Commission and Azerbaijan, as I already said, signed the MoU on strategic partnership in the field of energy. And our plan is to double our gas supply to the European Union market by 2027. This is absolutely realistic. If we look at the dynamic of our gas supply to Europe, we'll see that it was 8 billion cubic meters last year, this year it will be 12 bcm. And this is almost half of our total exports. And the sources to increase up to 20 bcm minimum by 2027 are available. One of them is our major gas field Shahdeniz and we hope to hear very good news from other gas field Absheron. We hope to hear good news about first gas from Absheron soon. I would even say very soon. We are already totally engaged with our strategic partner BP with respect to production of so-called deep gas from the ACG projects and if everything goes according to our plan, by the end of next year, we will have first gas production. We have many other fields, which are capable to produce additional volume of gas. At the same time, energy efficiency and renewable sources of energy are also a part of our energy dialogue with EU. It will allow us to save gas, which we're using for electricity and supply this gas to international markets. Among important events of the last year, I would also name inauguration of the Greece-Bulgaria gas interconnector. I was invited to attend the ceremony and as a result of that, Azerbaijan started to supply gas also to Bulgaria. And through Bulgaria, now we are evaluating the opportunities and I'm sure we will start soon supply to the neighboring countries. And actually Romania is already part of our cooperation format. If everything goes again according to the schedule, and all the planned interconnectors are built on time, our gas can reach Hungary and Serbia by the end of the year. Therefore, that will expand our geography of gas supplies. There was also an important event last December in the area of green energy in Bucharest. Several countries including Azerbaijan, Georgia, Hungary, Romania as well as the President of the European Commission attended the ceremony. An agreement on green energy and transmission was signed. I'm sure, it will a global project and attract more countries and companies. We already held the first meeting of the steering committee. We came to an agreement that it will be integrated project from offshore winds in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea to European markets, including transmission lines and subsea cable under the Black Sea. We are now in the phase of expectation of finalization of feasibility study. We think that this project can transport a minimum of 4 gigawatts of green energy to Europe, which will be our additional contribution. Among important events, I also would like to name the ceremony initiated by the President of Bulgaria, which took place this April in Sofia. The project called solidarity ring including Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia envisages additional interconnectors. Therefore, when European Union high-ranking officials called Azerbaijan a Pan-European gas supplier, they are absolutely right. The geography of our supplies, I'm sure, will expand because the need for Azerbaijani gas is growing. We've been approached by more than 10 countries during the last year and a half with respect to either increase of supplies or beginning of supplies. And of course, we want to satisfy the needs of all our friends and definitely to coordinate investments with market opportunities. Id like to underline that it will be also important for international financial institutions to support these projects. Though we know that with respect to the green energy transition, some international financial institutions stop financing projects based on fossil fuel. I think, we need to treat all the issues from realistic point of view. Today, it is clear that without natural gas supplies, energy security cannot be provided to the degree it is needed. Talking about renewables Id also like to say that Azerbaijan has enormous potential, which has been already assessed. It's 157 gigawatts of green energy alone in the Caspian Sea, not to mention onshore potential. Two contracts have been already signed with international investors, which will allow us to get almost 500 megawatts within probably next year, or year and a half. In total, contracts and MoUs equal to 25 gigawatts with respect to investments in green energy in Azerbaijan. Of course, signing MOU does not necessarily mean that it will transform into agreement. Though, the companies we signed a MoU with are the leading companies on a global scale in renewable energy. Therefore, there is a high probability that MoU will transform into agreement. Even if half of what has been signed as MoU is implemented, that will be more than enough. That will be maybe two times more than Azerbaijan consume today domestically. And as I said before, we will use substantial volume of natural gas, which we still use for production of electricity, and will supply our partners. Of course, there are a lot of things to do. We need to expand TANAP and TAP. We need to have unimpeded access to other European pipeline systems including trans-Balkan pipeline system. And there must be more interconnectors in Europe and it is going. So all these issues must be implemented in coordination because we have to undertake substantial investments. Therefore, of course, we must be sure that the gas - which we extract additionally and did not plan, but decided to extract because of the growing need in Europe - will find its consumers. All that definitely will need continuation of the team work. As I said, though the Southern Gas Corridor project is finished but the Advisory Council on the Southern Gas Corridor takes place every year in February and will take place again in Baku in February because we have new participants. We have new ideas and new plans. If we implement all what we planned so far successfully, we will be successful in the future. Thank you very much. XXX Assistant US Secretary of State for Energy Resources Geoffrey Pyatt and UK Prime Minister's Trade Envoy to Azerbaijan Baroness Emma Nicholson read out the letters to President Ilham Aliyev by President of the United States of America Joseph Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak respectively. XXX Director of the Energy Platform Task Force in the European Commissions Directorate-General for Energy Christina Lobillo Borrero addressed the event. XXX Following the speeches, the head of state viewed the 28th International Caspian Oil & Gas Exhibition (Caspian Oil & Gas) and the 11th Caspian International Power and Green Energy Exhibition (Caspian Power) within the framework of the Baku Energy Week at the Baku Expo Center. President Ilham Aliyev signed the Exhibitions guest book. The head of state was presented with commemorative gifts. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz These images show mobile phone alerts sent out in the wake of North Korea's launch of what appeared to be a space launch vehicle, May 31. Yonhap The Seoul city government on Wednesday erroneously sent out an emergency alert advising citizens to prepare for evacuation after North Korea's launch of what appeared to be a space launch vehicle. The mobile phone alert was sent to all citizens at 6:41 a.m., shortly after the Joint Chiefs of Staff said North Korea fired what appeared to be a space launch vehicle. But the interior ministry retracted it at 7:03 a.m., saying the alert was sent by mistake. "We inform that the alert warning issued by the Seoul Metropolitan City at 6:41 a.m. was an erroneous issuance," the interior ministry said in a separate mobile phone alert. A ministry official said that Seoul is not an area where an alert has been issued. The city government said it sent out the alert after receiving notification from the interior ministry about the North's rocket launch. "It was an emergency action taken against the possibility of a crisis that can have an impact on the lives and the safety of citizens while the level of risks of the North Korean projectile was yet to be identified," an official said. Still, the city came under fire as the alert came too late and did not specify what was happening. In the alert, the city only said, "An alert warning issued for Seoul. People are advised to prepare for evacuation with priority given to children and those old and weak," without providing information on what was going on. The alert also came nine minutes after the city received notification from the ministry. The interior ministry separately sent out an emergency alert to residents of Baengnyeong Island and Daecheong Island, near the western Northern Limit Line separating the two Koreas, advising islanders to evacuate. People look at their mobile phones at Seoul Station, May, 31. Yonhap Sirens sounded for over 20 minutes in Baengnyeong areas and an evacuation advisory was broadcasted across the region, according to residents. A township office in Baengnyeong told Yonhap News Agency, "The doors of some 20 shelters were opened up, and many residents took refuge." The North has notified Japan and the International Maritime Organization of its plan to launch a satellite between May 31 and June 11. The early-morning mishap by the Seoul city government threw many residents off guard. "After getting the emergency message to evacuate, I woke my child. Then another message came that it was a mistake and I was bewildered," a 46-year-old resident, surnamed Kim, told Yonhap News Agency. "I couldn't arrive at work on time because I had to soothe my frustrated child." Another resident, surnamed Lee, said the alert message at the early morning commute time left him torn between going to work and evacuating. "Checking the situation on the TV, I had tens of thousands of thoughts about what to do and whether I had to go to work," he said. "It's totally ridiculous." The mobile version of Naver, the biggest internet portal in South Korea, briefly went down after the North Korean launch as a wave of people went online for information. (Yonhap) 31 May 2023 12:17 (UTC+04:00) The US State Department is pleased to see the continuation of the peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Azernews reports with reference to the press statement of the US State Department, that the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan will meet this week in Chisinau with European partners, "and we hope that this will be a productive step towards resolving issues at the negotiating table, and not by force." Aggressive rhetoric can only perpetuate the violence of the past; constructive dialogueboth public and privatecan create peace, opportunity, and hope. The United States stands ready to support the efforts of both parties to reach a lasting and dignified peace agreement, the statement said. To recall, on June 1 in Chisinau will be held as part of the European Political Community summit and a five-party meeting between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and European Council President Charles Michel. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 14:00 (UTC+04:00) The role of Azerbaijan in ensuring the energy security of Europe is very important. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said this in his address to the participants of the Baku Energy Week, which was read out by British Prime Minister's trade envoy for Azerbaijan Baroness Emma Nicholson during the opening ceremony of the event, Azernews reports. "Azerbaijan's role as a reliable energy partner is important on the global landscape. By committing to increase natural gas supplies to 20 billion cubic meters by 2027, Azerbaijan is already significantly contributing to strengthening Europe's energy security," the appeal says. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 13:02 (UTC+04:00) President of the United States of America Joseph Biden has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Dear Mr. President, I send my best wishes to you and the people of Azerbaijan as you gather for the International Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition in Baku. For more than three decades, Azerbaijan and the United States have built a solid partnership-from countering transnational threats to promoting inclusive economic growth. This event underscores our countries shared commitment to a secure and clean energy future. Azerbaijan has played a central role in this effort. From developing the Middle Corridor-including the Southern Gas Corridor - to helping increase energy diversification that bolsters energy resilience, Azerbaijan is helping meet a global need for secure energy supplies. I am encouraged by Azerbaijans efforts to achieve global climate goals, including launching initiatives to increase renewable energy development and strengthen energy efficiency. The United States will stand with Azerbaijan as you implement these measures, as well as undertake reforms that will promote rule of law and advance opportunities for the Azerbaijani people. In addition, we will continue to support a sustainable and just peace in the region which will help promote security and prosperity across the South Caucasus for generations to come. I took forward to our continued cooperation in the years ahead. Sincerely, Joseph Biden President of the United States of America --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 13:15 (UTC+04:00) Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Rishi Sunak has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Dear President Aliyev, I am writing to wish you the best for the Baku Energy Week. With the pressing twin challenges of tackling climate change and strengthening energy security, Baku Energy Weeks ability to convene international thought leaders from the public and private sector has never been more important. Azerbaijans role as a reliable energy partner is important in the global energy landscape. Azerbaijans commitment to increase its natural gas supplies to Europe by 20 billion cubic meters by 2027 is already contributing to Europes energy security. Diversity of supply is key to ending Russias use of energy as a geopolitical weapon. I also applaud your efforts to develop Azerbaijans huge renewable energy potential and become a green energy exporter. Your plans to expand cooperation on energy transition with European partners will be key to achieving these goals. The establishment of the first Green Energy Advisory Council of the Southern Gas Corridor and the Black Sea Submarine cable project, which aims to transfer renewable electricity from Azerbaijan to Europe, are particularly promising. Over the past two years, the United Kingdom has supported Azerbaijans energy transition through capacity-building and awareness-raising programmes. These initiatives not only contribute to a more sustainable energy future for Azerbaijan but also help to build resilience against the impact of climate change. During Baku Energy Week, we will launch a new publication that brings together key insights from some of these initiatives. It will highlight how UK companies can support Azerbaijan to solve some of its energy transition challenges. I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm the United Kingdoms commitment to working with Azerbaijan and other international partners in the energy sector, to accelerate our collective efforts to transition to clean energy and tackle climate change. I hope Baku Energy Week is a huge success. Sincerely, Rishi Sunak Prime Minister of the United Kingdom --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 13:21 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent an appeal to the participants of the Baku Energy Week. Dear exhibition and forum participants! Dear guests, ladies and gentlemen! I congratulate you on the occasion of the start of the Baku Energy Week, which includes a number of prestigious energy events of the Caspian region, and wish you success in your future activities. I am sure that the Baku Energy Week will further step up the dialogue on global cooperation on energy security and diversification of energy sources. The Baku Energy Week encompasses authoritative events such as the 28th International Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition, the 11th Caspian International Power and Green Energy Exhibition and the 28th Baku Energy Forum. This traditional annual event is an opportunity for discussing matters related to global energy security, the potential of alternative and renewable energy, including the promotion of green energy projects, as well as the diversification of energy sources. This year's Baku Energy Week coincides with the celebration of the 100th anniversary of Heydar Aliyev, the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people and the founder of the independent Azerbaijan state. This is a remarkable event. The emergence of the energy dialogue platform and exhibition activities in Azerbaijan is associated with the exceptional role of Heydar Aliyev. The foundation of the Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition and the launch of the oil strategy developed under the leadership of the National Leader occurred at the same time, in 1994. Azerbaijans becoming a trustworthy contributor to energy security after the signing of the Contract of the Century in the same year set a successful example of cooperation with foreign partners in the oil and gas sector and in the export of energy resources. Currently, Azerbaijan is replicating its success in the oil and gas history by implementing projects related to the export of green energy. In recent years, the continuous development of energy production technologies, as well as global climate goals, have accelerated the transition to green energy, which is one of the key directions of energy policy in leading countries of the world. By utilizing its ample natural resources, our country has made important contributions to the global agenda of increasing alternative and renewable energy production, de-carbonization and diversification of energy sources. In the mid-term perspective, Azerbaijan aims to become an exporter of electricity obtained from alternative sources and green energy, hydrogen. The launch of projects aimed at the development of green energy in the country is an important opportunity to create a green energy corridor, which is viewed as an analogue of the project as large as the Southern Gas Corridor. In particular, the implementation of large-scale projects in liberated territories, including the creation of a green energy zone in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur, will turn the country into an alternative energy producer and exporter. Taking into account the growing strategic importance of the Southern Gas Corridor project in the energy transition, the expansion of the TANAP and TAP projects has already become a topical issue for Azerbaijan. The expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor before 2027 and other prospects related to the transportation of energy resources will serve to further enhance the strategic role of our country in diversified energy supply and energy security of our partners. Dear event participants! Azerbaijan has been hosting such a globally important event for a long time. I believe that thanks to its many years of experience, the comprehensive presentations, discussions and exchange of ideas during the exhibition and forum will open up new horizons for our broad economic relations and contribute to effective cooperation in an atmosphere of mutual understanding. I wish the Baku Energy Week continued success and new achievements in your activities! Ilham Aliyev President of the Republic of Azerbaijan The city of Baku, May 31, 2023 --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 16:28 (UTC+04:00) At The XIV International Economic Forum "Russia Islamic World: KAZANFORUM 2023" agreements on cooperation in the field of children and youth policy have been signed between heads of 10 international youth organizations and All-Russian Movement of Children and Youth, Azernews reports. One of such agreements was signed between mentioned Russian Movement of the First and the Youth Education and Promotion Center called Heritage (Azerbaijan). The essence of these agreements was an upcoming participation of adolescents from the OIC countries in the Youth Camp in the Republic of Tatarstan. The start of the first session is scheduled for August this year in the city of Innopolis (the youngest and most innovative city of the country). The first session of the International Camp will be implemented in tracks, such as culture and art, diplomacy, media and tourism. The delegates will be divided into teams of 20 people, each of which will bring together representatives of all participating countries. Together they will work on creative performances and design projects for further cooperation. Within the framework of the mentioned agreement the new chain of Diplomacy Clubs will start their work at more than 100 schools in the OIC countries and Russia. School students aged 12-17 with an interest in exploring other countries and making friends from all over the world will be able to participate in the project. During nine weeks of October-November of this year, participants from different countries will communicate during the series of online sessions. They will complete creative assignments and participate in various activities. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 18:03 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on amendments to the "Procedure for holding a competition in connection with recruitment to the customs authorities". This decree was approved by the decree of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev dated November 12, 2010 No. 349. According to the amendments, if the documents or information required in connection with admission to the customs service can be obtained from the relevant state body (institution) through the electronic government (e-government) information system, these documents or information are not required from a candidate wishing to participate in the competition. Moreover, in cases where access to such documents or information via the e-government information system is not possible, their submission is requested by the relevant state body (institution) on the basis of a request with the consent of the candidate wishing to participate in the competition, or provided by the candidate himself. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 17:28 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on amendments to the "Regulations on the Security Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan", approved by Decree No. 1290 of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on February 19, 2021. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 19:41 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Estonia, Alar Karis has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Dear Colleague, Please allow me to convey my sincere congratulations to you and to the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan. These greetings are sent with high hopes and in confidence that the friendship of our people and good cooperation between Estonia and Azerbaijan will continue to develop successfully in the years to come. Cooperation between likeminded countries is extremely valuable, especially at a time when Russia-Ukraine war and its impact on the whole world countries. We both know that there is no other way for our countries than to help Ukraine win this war. It is also of the utmost importance that we continue our work towards ending wars, and ensuring justice and accountability. We also hope that mutually beneficial peace agreement will be concluded between Azerbaijan and Armenia, which will have a positive and long-lasting impact for peace and prosperity in the entire region of South Caucasus. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you sincerely for your congratulations and good wishes expressed upon the Independence Day of the Republic of Estonia. I hope that the warm friendship and the excellent relations between our two countries will continue to serve our states and nations. Please accept, dear Colleague, the assurances of my highest consideration as well as my best wishes for the welfare and prosperity of Azerbaijan and its people. Sincerely, Alar Karis President of the Republic of Estonia --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 20:33 (UTC+04:00) Co-Chairs and Board Members of Nizami Ganjavi International Center's Trustees has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Your Excellency, As we join the people of Azerbaijan in celebrating the 105th anniversary of the Independence Day, the National Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan, we also celebrate your enormous achievements in liberating the occupied territories and securing universal recognition of the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. And beyond this historic accomplishment, we also want to extend our congratulations to Your Excellency and the First Vice-President, as we also reflect on the enormous progress that Azerbaijan has attained in so many fields in the past 30 years, despite the many obstacles and challenges in the world we live in. We would also like to seize the moment to extend our heartfelt thanks to you, Mr. President, for the great support you have shown to the creation, growth and international outreach of the Nizami Ganjavi International Center (NGIC) and with gratitude for your trust and confidence, we believe that together we will continue to strengthen the NGIC and take it to ever more successful endeavors. Please accept, Mr. President, the assurances of my highest consideration. Respectfully, Vaira Vike-Freiberga Co-Chair of NGIC, President of Latvia (1999-2007) Ismail Serageldin Co-Chair of NGIC, Vice-President of World Bank (1992-2000) Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic President of Croatia (2015-2020) Tzipi Livni Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel (2006-2009) Boris Tadic President of Serbia (2004-2012) Amre Moussa Secretary-General of the Arab League (2001-2011), Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt (1991-2001) Rosen Plevneliev President of Bulgaria (2012-2017) Eka Tkeshelashvili Deputy Prime Minister of Georgia (2010-2012) Ivo Josipovic President of Croatia (2010-2015) Yves Leterme Prime Minister of Belgium (2008, 2009-2011) --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz North Korea conducts an "important final-stage test" at Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in Cholsan, North Pyongan Province, for the development of a reconnaissance satellite, in this Dec. 19, 2022, file photo carried by the North's official Korean Central News Agency. Yonhap North Korea said Wednesday a rocket carrying a military spy satellite it launched earlier in the day crashed into the Yellow Sea due to an engine problem and that the country plans to carry out its second launch "as soon as possible." The North launched its military reconnaissance satellite "Malligyong-1," mounted on a new-type rocket named "Chollima-1," at its rocket launching station on the west coast at 6:27 a.m., according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). But the carrier rocket fell into the Yellow Sea "after losing thrust due to the abnormal starting of the second-stage engine after the separation of the first stage during the normal flight," the KCNA said in an English-language dispatch. The failure was attributable to "the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system and unstable character of the fuel used," the report said, citing a spokesperson of the state-run space development agency. The North said it would thoroughly investigate the "serious" defects found in the latest satellite launch and take necessary measures to overcome them, vowing to "conduct the second launch as soon as possible through various part tests." Earlier in the day, South Korea's military said what the North claims to be a "space launch vehicle" fell into waters some 200 kilometers west of the South's southwestern island of Eocheong, after an "abnormal" flight. North Korea said Tuesday the planned launch of a spy satellite is "indispensable" to monitor "dangerous" military exercises by the United States and South Korea in real time. The North notified Japan and the International Maritime Organization earlier this week of its plan to launch a satellite between May 31 and June 11. A spy satellite is among the high-tech weapons systems that the North's leader Kim Jong-un vowed to develop at a key party congress in 2021, along with a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile and a nuclear-powered submarine. Earlier this month, the North announced the completion of preparations to mount a spy satellite on a rocket, with Kim approving "the future action plan." This photo, provided by South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff shows an object believed to be part of North Korea's "space launch vehicle" that was retrieved from the Yellow Sea, May 31. Yonhap Experts said the North may have pressed ahead with the satellite launch due to political reasons, as it probably wants to show off its success to intensify internal solidarity ahead of a key anniversary in July. Pyongyang will mark the 70th anniversary of "Victory Day" on July 27, the signing date of the armistice that halted the 1950-53 Korean War. The North has claimed it won the conflict that it calls the Great Fatherland Liberation War. The North has launched a rocket carrying what it claims to be a satellite six times, including Wednesday's launch, since 1998. The regime put Earth-observation satellites into orbit in 2012 and 2016, respectively, but they are known not to be normally operating. The North's satellite launch would violate a series of United Nations Security Council resolutions banning its nuclear and missile programs, as it uses the same technology used in ballistic missiles. (Yonhap) 31 May 2023 23:16 (UTC+04:00) Grand Duke of Luxembourg, Henri has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Your Excellency, On the occasion of the celebration of Your National Day I would like to send Your Excellency all my congratulations together with my best wishes for your personal well-being and for a happiness of the people of Azerbaijan. Henri Grand Duke of Luxembourg --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 23:44 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has met with Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova Dorin Recean in Chisinau, Azernews reports. Expressing his satisfaction with the meeting, Prime Minister of Moldova thanked President Ilham Aliyev for participation in the Summit of the European Political Community. PM Dorin Recean congratulated the President of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the Independence Day and the 100th anniversary of Great Leader Heydar Aliyev. He emphasized that the National Leader is recognized as an exemplary personality. President Ilham Aliyev conveyed his congratulations on hosting the Summit of the European Political Community in Moldova. PM Dorin Recean expressed his gratitude for Azerbaijan's support to Moldova. During the conversation, the sides hailed the high level of relations between Azerbaijan and Moldova, noting that there are ample opportunities for further development of trade and economic ties between the two countries. They noted that the current level of trade turnover cannot be considered as satisfactory. The sides stressed the significance of diversification of trade turnover. In this regard, the importance of further intensifying the activity of the intergovernmental commission was emphasized. During the conversation, the two also underlined that there were great opportunities for cooperation between Azerbaijan and Moldova in agriculture, electric energy, investments, infrastructure projects and other areas of mutual interest. It was emphasized that Moldova has extensive experience in the field of viticulture and winemaking, and Azerbaijan has rich traditions in this field. They also pointed out the opportunities for expanding cooperation in this area. President Ilham Aliyev invited the Prime Minister of Moldova to pay a visit to Azerbaijan. The invitation was gratefully accepted. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 22:44 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has met with President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu in Chisinau, Azernews reports. The presidents posed together for photographs. President Maia Sandu congratulated President Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of the Independence Day and the 100th anniversary of National Leader of the Azerbaijani people, Heydar Aliyev. Conveying his congratulations on hosting the Summit of the European Political Community in Moldova, President Ilham Aliyev positively assessed the organization of such a large-scale event in friendly Moldova. During the meeting, the sides hailed the good level of relations between the two countries, touching upon the issues of cooperation in energy, investments and other spheres. The meeting also focused on prospects for relations between Azerbaijan and Moldova. During the conversation, the sides emphasized that there were good opportunities for further expansion of economic and trade relations, stressing the importance of accelerating efforts in this regard. The mutual support of both countries in international organizations was highly appreciated. In this regard, it was underlined that Azerbaijan and Moldova always support each other's territorial integrity and sovereignty. President Maia Sandu assessed as a positive step the five-sided meeting of the Azerbaijani President with the support of President of the European Council Charles Michel, which will be held within the framework of the Summit of the European Political Community in Moldova with the participation of the Prime Minister of Armenia, the leaders of Germany and France. President Ilham Aliyev invited the President of Moldova to pay a visit to Azerbaijan. The invitation was accepted with gratitude. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 08:00 (UTC+04:00) German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Monday congratulated Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his victory in Sunday's presidential runoff election, Azernews reports via Anadolu Agency. In a phone call, Scholz congratulated Erdogan on his electoral success and wished the results to be beneficial for the Turkish people, Turkiyes Communications Directorate said in a statement. Scholz also expressed hope for progress on common issues. According to unofficial results, the Turkish incumbent won the race with 52.16% of the vote, while opposition candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu received 47.84%. On May 14, no candidate won the required 50% in the first round, triggering the presidential runoff, although Erdogan took the lead with 49.52%. On that day, Erdogans electoral alliance also won a majority of seats in parliament. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 22:25 (UTC+04:00) Abba's Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson have ruled out a reunion at the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest in their native Sweden, Azernews reports via BBC News. Next year will be the 50th anniversary of the band winning the competition with their song Waterloo. Speaking to BBC Newsnight, the pair also dismissed the idea that they might compose the host nation's entry. Since Abba won in 1974, Sweden has gone on to win Eurovision six more times, including this year in Liverpool. Bjorn and Benny - who swore never to tour again and reportedly turned down an offer of $1bn to play 100 shows at the turn of the Millennium - say they do not want to get back together with Agnetha Faltskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad to perform - even for one night. "I don't want to," says Andersson, "and if I don't want to, the others won't. It's the same for all four of us - someone says, 'no' - it's a no." "We can celebrate 50 years of Abba without us being on stage," adds Ulvaeus. In an interview to mark the first anniversary of their virtual concert residency, Abba Voyage, which features digital recreations of the four band members. Ulvaeus describes the response of audiences to the London show as "surpassing every expectation". "That emotional connection was the important thing for us," he says. "We never knew until we started whether that would work. "Their intellect is telling them that we're not there - but emotionally they are connected, which is a fantastic thing." Ulvaeus believes the groundbreaking technology employed in their show will be used in future to create avatars of deceased artists who cannot give their consent - posing a dilemma for both producers and audiences. "We can say 'yes' or 'no' to everything, so the audience knows that we are behind this," he says, "so it would be an ethical question". And they acknowledge that the technology could also be misused to create 'deep fakes' with the potential to spread disinformation. "But it's hardly our fault," says Andersson. While it was initially reported that the purpose-built Abba Voyage arena would be dismantled and transported around the world following its London run, the songwriters say they are now considering gifting the building - constructed near the Olympic Stadium in Stratford - "to the community" in the event they are unable to extend the lease when it expires in four years. They are also considering building replicas of the structure in North America and Asia, and would like to take the immersive virtual reality show to Australia. When asked if they would be keen to see a third instalment of the hit Hollywood romantic comedy, Mamma Mia - based around their music and set on an idyllic Greek island - Andersson issues a blow to fans of the musical. Without substantial changes, he says - a new setting and an irresistible script - there will not be another film in the series. "That's just wishful thinking," he says. The duo have known each other since 1966 and say their constant desire to write new material and do new things has kept their relationship fresh. "Because we never stood still none of us has stagnated," explains Ulvaeus, "which so often happens in songwriting duos." They even say that over the course of 57 years, they have never really fallen out. "We've had different opinions," says Ulvaeus, "many, many". "But it doesn't matter," Andersson says, "because what we've achieved together, keeps us together". --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 20:45 (UTC+04:00) An informal meeting of NATO foreign ministers will be held later Wednesday in Norway's capital Oslo, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency. The two-day meeting will be chaired by the alliance's Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. The gathering in Oslo will begin with a news conference at 2.30 p.m. local time (1230GMT). Recent clashes in Kosovo and supporting Ukraine will remain at the top of the foreign ministers' agendas. According to Stoltenberg, the alliance will also prepare for the July 11-12 NATO Summit in Lithuania. Sweden's accession to NATO after Finland will also be one of the priorities of the meeting. This meeting will mark Finland's second participation in NATO events as a member. On Tuesday, Stoltenberg called for an end to the clashes in Kosovo, where at least 30 NATO soldiers were injured. He announced the deployment of an additional 700 troops in Kosovo due to the ongoing tensions, adding that the alliance will put a battalion from the reserve forces on heightened alert so it can also be deployed if needed. On Swedens bid to join NATO, he said such a decision is "absolutely possible" before the Lithuania summit, noting that six weeks is "long enough" to make the membership happen. Stoltenberg also tweeted: "I am in close contact with Turkish authorities to ensure Sweden joins as soon as possible." Sweden passed an anti-terror law last November, hoping that Ankara would approve Stockholms bid to join NATO. The new law, which goes into force on June 1, will allow authorities to prosecute individuals who support terrorist groups. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 31 May 2023 21:40 (UTC+04:00) Saudi Arabias western coastal city of Jeddah was hit by a huge traffic jam on Thursday, ahead of the Arab League summit scheduled for Friday, Azernews reports, citing Anadolu Agency. An increase in police presence on the streets and main thoroughfares was also seen as leaders of the 22-member league started arriving in the modern commercial hub. An official from the Saudi Media Ministry told Anadolu that the traffic problems were caused due to extensive security measures put in place to ensure the safety of the leaders. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was one of the first to arrive besides Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, while others are expected to reach by tonight. This years summit will also be attended by Syria, whose membership was reinstated after a 12-year suspension. Syrias participation was suspended following Bashar al-Assads crackdown on mass protesters in 2011, which led to a civil war. Bakersfield, CA (93308) Today Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. High near 85F. Winds NNW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph. The following is a chronology of major events leading to North Korea's first attempt to put into orbit what it called its first military spy satellite. The North launched what it claims to be a "space launch vehicle" southward Wednesday, but it fell into the Yellow Sea after an "abnormal" flight, the South Korean military said. The North confirmed the failure but said it plans to conduct a second launch as soon as possible. January 2021 North Korea lays out plans to develop a military spy satellite as one of its key defense projects during the eighth congress of the ruling Worker's Party of Korea (WPK). Feb. 27, 2022 North Korea launches a ballistic missile and announces the next day that it has carried out an "important test" to develop a reconnaissance satellite. March 5, 2022 North Korea says it has conducted another "important test" for developing a "reconnaissance satellite." March 10, 2022 North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited the country's space development agency and vowed to put "a lot of" military satellites into orbit in the next five years, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). An undated photo, released on March 11, 2022 by the official North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), shows Kim Jong-un, center, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic's Republic of Korea inspecting the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in Tongchang-ri, North Pyongan Province, North Korea. EPA-Yonhap China-Malaysia diplomatic ties marked by successful, fruitful cooperation: expert Xinhua) 15:48, May 31, 2023 KUALA LUMPUR, May 31 (Xinhua) -- China and Malaysia marked the 49th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties on Wednesday, with the relationship demonstrating how trust and mutual respect have formed an enduring partnership that continues to bear fruit, according to a political observer. Lee Pei May, a political expert at the International Islamic University Malaysia, said the relationship has gone from strength to strength, with both countries focused on promoting bilateral activities, especially in the economic area. The special trade relationship between the two has been benefitting Malaysia, she said. "A good example is during the COVID-19 pandemic, Malaysia was among the few countries that had received priority access to Chinese-developed vaccines. Such early access to the vaccines was fundamental to the success of Malaysia's National Immunization Program, which had helped safeguard lives and livelihoods," she told Xinhua in a recent interview. As the World Bank predicts rising global recession risks in 2023, it is even more essential for Malaysia to ensure trade and investment with China could expand, the expert said. "Since China has been Malaysia's largest trading partner since 2009, we expect trade to continue to flourish between both countries and economic cooperation would reach a new height, allowing Malaysia to weather the predicted recession in 2023," she added. Lee said Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's recent visit to participate in the Boao Forum and to Beijing was very successful in terms of getting China's commitment to large amounts of investments that will encourage other foreign investors to make similar investments in Malaysia. Moving forward, Lee suggested that Malaysia should leverage its position within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to advocate for regional peace, cooperation, and economic growth. China and Malaysia established diplomatic relations on May 31, 1974. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) This Dec. 19, 2022 file photo, carried by North Korea's Korean Central News Agency, shows the North conducting an "important final-stage test" at Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in Cholsan, North Pyongan Province, for the development of a reconnaissance satellite the previous day. Yonhap North Korea's botched launch of a "space launch vehicle" underlined both its technological difficulties and rising space ambitions in the face of the superior military intelligence capabilities of South Korea and the United States, analysts said Wednesday. The North fired its new "Chollima-1" rocket carrying a military reconnaissance satellite, "Malligyong-1," but it crashed into the Yellow Sea due to the "abnormal starting" of the second-stage engine, according to its official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The recalcitrant regime's first launch of such a rocket in more than seven years highlighted its steadfast focus on fulfilling its push to overcome technological weaknesses and bolster overall reconnaissance capabilities, the analysts said. The North attributed the failure in the latest launch to the "low reliability and stability of the new engine system applied to the carrier rocket and the unstable character of the fuel used," the KCNA reported, in a rare public acknowledgement of such defects. The KCNA mention of the rocket's "normal" flight until the separation of its first stage indicated defects stem from the second-stage propulsion system and rocket fuel elements critical to placing a satellite into orbit. Chang Young-keun, a rocket expert at the Korea Aerospace University, said the second-stage engine might have failed in its ignition and combustion process following the first-stage separation. The North's space rocket is thought to be equipped with the Paektusan liquid-fuel engine modeled after the Soviet-made RD-250 twin engine, analysts said. Its first and second stages could carry a dual-chamber Paektusan engine with a thrust of 160 ton and a single chamber one, respectively, while the third stage may be equipped with two small liquid-fuel engines, they said. The operation of these engines requires liquid fuel as well as oxidizer. Particularly, the requirement to store liquid oxygen at an ultralow temperature could have been a challenge for the North. It remains unclear whether the North could follow through on its professed plan to overcome all defects and conduct another space rocket launch "as soon as possible." Now that the public is allowed to know the truth regarding the Hunter Biden Laptop Scandal, after more that 2 1/2 years of deception by the corrupt Corporate Media Kabal, propropagandidats all, and the discredited Deep State, we have NOW learned that the infamous laptop is far less about the Biden Boy's fetish for pornography, narcotics and Russian whores, and far more about Hunter's pivotal role in the Biden Crime Syndicate's selling of deep access to our foreign adversaries, and to what extent it has compromised our national security: What is your opinion about this possible coordinated Treason? It is imperative that we know the truth of what may be the greatest scandal in our Republic's history, and all aforementioned parties prosecuted for their crimes against the People. Currently, our Two Tiered Justice System is constructed to protect all Democratic Socialists, their corrupt "Journalist" spokes-sheople, and their Deep State enablers ... so why bother. It is Donald Trump's fault. If you were hoping that perhaps Ukraine, the West, and Russia would enter peace talks before we get any closer to World War III - or get any deeper into World War III, some might say - then you are out of luck, according to a top diplomat from Ukraine.Vadym Prystaiko, Ukraine's ambassador to the U.K, told Newsweek in an interview published Tuesday.Prystaiko arrived at that position by admitting that Ukraine would be operating from a position of weakness in the war.Prystaiko said of Russia's success.The ambassador also said that the world's focus on Ukraine's counteroffensive this spring is misguided. If it goes wrong, which he admits it could, then he frets the West will take that as a sign that Ukraine's hope is lost forever.he told Newsweek.From his perspective, the West needs to provide better supplies - quicker and with more discreetness. Until that happens, Russia will be able to attack Ukraine strategically. For now, though, Prystaiko says that there is much to be proud of for the Ukrainian people.he said.Prystaiko saidIndeed, there is beauty in a nation defending its borders, language, and culture from an outside threat. The American people see the beauty in that, and wonder why the Biden administration and its allies don't feel the same way about America.So, if you support the Biden administration and the Republican Establishment's agenda, you'd say that the West - led by the U.S. - needs to keep supporting Ukraine with billions upon billions of dollars as America's economy suffers as requested by Prystaiko.If you don't want the U.S. to enter World War III, then you might be wondering why nobody has demanded that Ukraine enter peace talks before more of its people get killed and the U.S. gets dragged directly into the war with Russia.If the recent classified docs leaks are real, the U.S. already has military personnel on the ground. As the Newsweek article notes, Russian President Vladimir Putin isin for a long war. Is the U.S. really going to allow Ukraineas chief war drum-beater Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) has said? If Ukraine hasn't won by that point, then who will the West send to fight Ukraine's war?Nobody wants Russia to win, but it's not hard to see that the longer this goes on, the more countries will be drawn into it. This post appears here courtesy of the The Daily Wire . The author of this post is Ben Zeisloft OpenAI CEO Sam Altman testified before members of the Senate on Tuesday about the risks from artificial intelligence advancements, encouraging lawmakers to implement regulations.ChatGPT, a mass-market AI system developed by OpenAI, has gained widespread popularity over the last six months as knowledge workers use the tool to complete tasks such as writing code and drafting emails in a matter of seconds. Altman, who dined on Monday evening with five dozen lawmakers, said in opening remarks before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday morning that he knows the firm's technology will haveon the world.he remarked.Skeptics of recent AI innovations note that widespread technological unemployment could stem from the increased sophistication and prevalence of AI solutions. One recent forecast from Goldman Sachs estimated that AI could eliminate 7% of positions in the United States, largely in sectors that rely on office work such as administrative support and legal, while positions in sectors such as construction and logistics are forecasted to remain broadly intact.Some analysts note that AI systems render individual workers considerably more productive, implying avenues for economic growth and more opportunities for creative work as the rote elements within many professions are automated.Altman suggested that policymakers should considerandCities and states have piloted universal basic income initiatives in recent years as they examine mechanisms to soften the impact of future technological unemployment.Altman continued.Beyond the potential economic effects of the nascent innovations, lawmakers and technology experts have noted the possible spread of false information and so-called deepfakes, which could impact news cycles and disrupt the legal system. Elon Musk, a co-founder of OpenAI who has since resigned his seat on the company's board of directors, and Steve Wozniak, a co-founder of Apple, made headlines after they signed an open letter for the Future of Life Institute, which called for a six-month moratorium on developing AI solutions; Geoffrey Hinton, a veteran computer scientist, resigned from his position at Google over his concerns about AI.Altman said that the federal government could imposerequirements on companies before they release new solutions, facilitate experts and organizations tosafety standards, and implementwith other governments.The calls for regulation occur as technology firms compete to incorporate AI developments into their products. Microsoft invested billions of dollars into ChatGPT creator OpenAI and announced earlier this year that the system would be added to search engine Bing, while Google revealed one day later that Bard, an experimental conversational AI service, would soon be added to the company's search engine. Workforce instant messaging company Slack will include AI components in its platforms, while fast food chains such as Carl's Jr. and Hardee's will leverage the technology to enable voice ordering drive-thru systems. Patients from Cleveland Clinic, a health system with several ASC and endoscopy center affiliates, have been caught in a data breach at medical billing company MedInform, according to a May 30 report from JDSupra. MedInform, a vendor that provides services to Cleveland Clinic, learned that an unauthorized user accessed confidential information about Cleveland Clinic patients that was stored on the companys computer network. The comany then filed a notice of data breach with the Attorney General of Massachusetts. MedInform became aware of the breach on Dec. 21, taking action by securing its systems and launching an investigation into the incident. It was determined that an unauthorized party had access to the system Dec. 5-21. The party gained access to patient names, addresses, Social Security numbers, medical billing information and financial account information. Cleveland Clinic patients with compromised information received an alert from the company on May 24. Wisconsin lawmakers have proposed a bill that would create an advanced practice registered nurse license and allow these APRNs to work without a collaborating physician, Wisconsin Examiner reported May 31. APRNs would need to practice for a preliminary period of two years before being able to practice without a physician collaboration agreement. Proponents of the bill believe it will help the ongoing healthcare worker shortage and note that nurse practitioners were practicing without a collaborating physician during the height of the pandemic successfully. Additionally, supporters of the bill pointed out that many nurses in the state have costly agreements with physicians who are not actively practicing in Wisconsin. Opponents of the bill are mostly all physicians, according to the publication, who feel there is a lack of required training and experience when compared to physicians. The Wisconsin Medical Society and other medical organizations are asking that the bill requires four years of experience with a collaborating physician two before receiving the APRN license and two after before APRNs can practice independently. In the current legislation, nurse anesthetists would still be required to work with a collaborating physician. The bill was vetoed by Gov. Tony Evers last year for failure to address the concerns of opponents. Winston-Salem, N.C.-based Novant Health will open a 168,000-square-foot hospital in Ballantyne, N.C., on June 12, according to the Charlotte Business Journal. The 36-bed facility features two operating rooms, a 15-room emergency department and 12 observation beds, according to the report. Services include general medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, heart, vascular and cancer care, orthopedics and outpatient surgery. "Patients in Ballantyne are faced with a [growing] commute to receive potentially life-saving care," Saad Ehtisham, president of Charlotte-based Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, told the publication. "We strive to grow with the community as it grows and viewed this as a challenge and an opportunity, and we were committed to eliminating these barriers to care." Seen above is an apparent component of a projectile launched by North Korea, Wednesday. The part was found in waters about 200 kilometers west of Eocheong Island, which is some 60 kilometers southwest of Gunsan, North Jeolla Province. The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said it retrieved the part for further analysis. Courtesy of JCS Pyongyang vows to carry out another launch By Nam Hyun-woo North Korea fired what it claims to be "a space launch vehicle," Wednesday, but it fell into the West Sea after "an abnormal flight." Quickly admitting the failure, an unusual move by the reclusive state, Pyongyang vowed to conduct a second launch in the near future. According to South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), it detected a projectile launched from Tongchang-ri in North Pyongan Province at 6:29 a.m., which fell into waters approximately 200 kilometers west of South Korea's southwestern island of Eocheong, which is some 60 kilometers southwest of Gunsan, North Jeolla Province. The JCS said the projectile "fell into the waters after an abnormal flight" and the South Korean military retrieved several parts of the North Korean vehicle, including what was assumed to be a link between the first and second stages of the rocket. About two and a half hours later, after, the launch, the North's state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) confirmed that it had launched its new Chollima-1 rocket carrying a military reconnaissance satellite, the Malligyong-1, and the rocket fell into the sea "after losing thrust due to the abnormal starting of the second-stage engine after the separation of the first stage during the normal flight." Citing the North's National Aerospace Development Administration spokesperson, the KCNA said the failure was attributable to "the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system applied to carrier rocket Chollima-1 and the unstable character of the fuel used." It continued that the aerospace administration will "conduct the second launch as soon as possible" after investigating defects revealed in the launch. "It is likely that the North will conduct a second launch before June 11, which is within the period of time of the country's prior notification made earlier this week," said Hong Min, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification. On Monday, North Korea notified Japan of its plans to put its first military reconnaissance satellite in geosynchronous orbit between May 31 and June 11. "If there were problems in the satellite, it will take time for a second launch, but if the root cause of the failure was in stage separation of the rocket as the KCNA report said chances are high that the North has prepared a number of spare launch vehicles, given that the regime has been testing multiple launch vehicles for intercontinental ballistic missiles," Hong added. Kim's sister says NK will 'correctly' place spy satellite into orbit soon after failed launch Chronology of major events leading to NK's 1st spy satellite launch attempt Failed NK space rocket launch shows both technological challenges, growing space ambitions: analysts History is on North Korea's side as it test-fired a medium-range ballistic missile on Feb. 27 last year, announcing that it carried out an important test to develop a reconnaissance satellite, and then it launched another, March 5 when it made a similar statement. "Along with that, the political pressure that the North's rocket engineers are facing is likely to prompt the regime to prepare for a second launch in a hurry," Hong said. "North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has been paying his attention to the spy satellite program since the eighth Congress of its Workers' Party in 2021, and having no results from the satellite program means humiliation for the regime." The extremely quick admission of the failure as well as the revelation of the cause of the failure is regarded as a rare case for the North Korean regime. Since North Korea launched its first reconnaissance satellite, the Kwangmyongsong-1, in 1998, the country has launched what it claimed were rockets carrying satellites on seven occasions, but it had barely acknowledged any failures in those launches before Wednesday. Of those launches, the North managed to place into satellite orbit the Kwangmyongsong-3 Unit 2 in 2012 and the Kwangmyongsong-4 in 2016. The satellites are still in orbit, according to live satellite tracker website N2YO.com, but they are assumed not to be operating because their signal transmissions with Earth have not been detected. "North Korea has already informed the International Maritime Organization about the satellite launch, so it seems that the North sought to improve its credibility within the international community by announcing the failure and revealing the reasons like a normal country," Hong said. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and his daughter Ju-ae leave a research institute after inspecting the North's National Aerospace Development Administration, April 18, in this photo revealed by Pyongyang's Korean Central Television the following day. Yonhap Political aftermath Although the launch ended in failure, it was followed by strong condemnation from the international community. South Korea's National Security Council (NSC) called the rocket launch "a grave violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions" and a serious provocation, threatening peace on the Korean Peninsula and beyond. "Also, the participants agreed to maintain a coordination posture with allies and friendly nations while continuing to carefully monitor the possibility of North Korea's additional launches," the NSC said in a statement. Adam Hodge, a spokesperson of the White House National Security Council, also said in a statement that the U.S. "strongly condemns the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) for its launch using ballistic missile technology, which is a brazen violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions, raising tensions and that it risks destabilizing the security situation in the region and beyond." North Korea nuclear envoys from Seoul, Tokyo and Washington also issued a strong condemnation. Seoul's chief nuclear negotiator, Kim Gunn, and his U.S. and Japanese counterparts, Sung Kim and Takehiro Funakoshi, had a conference call after Pyongyang announced the launch, and urged the North to stop its provocations and return to talks for denuclearization. Several more nonprofit health systems have posted recent interim quarterly results since Becker's last major roundup May 12. Here is a summary of recent results from some of the larger nonprofit systems sorted by whether they were in the black or the red as of March 31. Net operating losses Ascension (St. Louis): The 140-hospital system reported a first quarter operating loss of $1.4 billion on $6.9 billion in revenue. That compared with a $671 million loss in the same quarter last year. Trinity Health (Livonia, Mich.): One of the largest nonprofit health systems in the country, Trinity Health reported an operating loss of $283.5 million for the first nine months of its fiscal year up to March 31. The loss, which included a reduction of $137.2 million from pandemic-related provider relief funds compared with the same period in 2022, also compared with an operating gain of $139.7 million in 2022. CommonSpirit (Chicago): The 143-hospital system recorded operating losses of $658 million and $1.1 billion for the three- and nine-month periods ended March 31. Those figures compared with operating losses of $591 million and $638 million for the same periods in the prior year. Lower contract labor costs helped stem some of the operating losses, although hiring challenges remain, the system said. UnityPoint Health (West Des Moines, Iowa): The system, which is due to combine with Presbyterian Health Services later this year, saw its operating loss total $29 million in the first quarter. That loss followed a $52.2 million loss in the same period last year. UnityPoint, which operates 20 hospitals in its home state as well as Wisconsin and Illinois, and 19 community network hospitals, reported revenue of $1.1 billion in the period, up from the previous year, while expenses rose just 1 percent. Mass General Brigham (Somerville, Mass.): The system reported a $6 million operating loss in the second quarter of fiscal year 2023, which ended on March 31. The loss is a significant improvement on the $193 million operating loss recorded in the same period last year. Providence (Renton, Wash.): The 51-hospital system reported a $345 million operating loss in the first quarter on revenue of $6.8 billion. While revenues were up on the same period in 2022, expenses also rose 5.1 percent to total $7.1 billion. The operating loss compares with a $510 million loss in the first quarter of 2022. Net operating gains Banner Health (Phoenix): Banner Health, a 33-hospital system, transformed a $46 million operating loss in the same period last year into a $128 million gain in the quarter ending March 31. The operating profit was on revenue of $3.5 billion and, with a boost from nonoperating income, the system posted overall net income of $292 million for the first quarter compared with a $171 million loss in the same period of 2022. Intermountain Health (Salt Lake City): Intermountain Health, a 33-hospital system, reported operating income of $104 million for the first quarter of 2023 on heavily increased revenues of almost $4 billion. That figure compared with $130 million on revenues of $2.8 billion for the same period in 2022. Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minn.): The system reported an operating gain of $149 million for the first quarter on revenue of $4.3 billion. That compares with a $142 million gain on $3.9 billion revenues in the first quarter of 2022. Penn Medicine (Philadelphia): The seven-hospital system revealed operating income of $160.4 million in its reporting period ending March 31. Penn Medicine reported positive operating income in the past five years in the May 24 filing. The most recent reporting period covers the nine months to March 31. While operating expenses increased from the same period in the previous year, revenues totaled $7.4 billion, an 8.4 percent jump. UPMC (Pittsburgh): The 40-hospital system's operating income hit $100.4 million in the first quarter up from $50.4 million in the prior-year period due to increased patient volumes, the growth of its insurance division and equity earnings in its investment in CarepathRx. First-quarter revenue increased 12 percent year over year to $6.9 billion, and expenses rose 11 percent to $6.8 billion. UCHealth (Aurora, Colo.): The 14-hospital system revealed operating income of $61.8 million in the first quarter of 2023 on revenue of $1.7 billion. Such figures built on previous months' gains, with the 14-hospital system reporting operating income of almost $200 million on revenue of over $5 billion for the fiscal year to March 31. A number of hospital and health system executives have recently stepped down or announced plans to step down from their positions. Here are eight hospital and health system executive resignations that were reported by Becker's since May 2: 1. Martin Padgett left his role as CEO of Jeffersonville, Ind.-based Clark Memorial Health and Scottsburg, Ind.-based Scott Memorial Health to pursue other opportunities, a hospital spokesperson said. Bruce Tassin began serving as interim CEO for both hospitals in the southern Indiana market on May 30. 2. Jeanell Rasmussen, RN, is stepping down as chief nursing officer and vice president of patient care at St. Michael Medical Center in Silverdale, Wash., according to an internal memo obtained by the Kitsap Sun. Ms. Rasmussen is taking some "much-deserved time off after an intense few years before pursuing new opportunities" and will be with the hospital until June 2, St. Michael Medical Center President Chad Melton told staff in April, according to the newspaper. Ms. Rasmussen joined the hospital in 2013. 3. Todd Burch is stepping down as president and CEO of McLaren Northern Michigan in Petoskey. Mr. Burch is stepping down to pursue other opportunities, according to a news release shared with Becker's. Chad Grant, executive vice president and COO of Grand Blanc, Mich.-based McLaren Health Care, will serve as interim CEO. 4. Jeff Sanders is leaving his role as president of the MaineHealth southern region later this summer. Mr. Sanders has served as president of the southern region of MaineHealth since November 2022, according to his LinkedIn page. Joel Botler, MD, chief medical officer for the MaineHealth southern region, was named regional chief medical officer and interim regional president. 5. Al Gobeille stepped down as executive vice president and COO for Burlington-based University of Vermont Health Network "to pursue his other business interests," the health system said. Mr. Gobeille has served as COO since September 2019. 6. Jeremy Ensey, CEO of St. Luke Hospital and Living Center in Marion, Kan., resigned during a May 2 board meeting. Mr. Ensey will remain in the role through late July. 7. Tanya Sharp resigned as CEO of Boone County Health Center in Albion, Neb. Ms. Sharp left the role to pursue other opportunities, according to an April 28 news release from the hospital. Kristie Stricklin was named interim CEO. 8. Art Mathisen, president of Memorial Hospital in North Conway, N.H., submitted his resignation. The resignation is effective July 7. Mr. Mathisen will begin a new role as president and CEO of Hermiston, Ore.-based Good Shepherd Health Care System. Martin Padgett has left his role as CEO of Jeffersonville, Ind.-based Clark Memorial Health and Scottsburg, Ind.-based Scott Memorial Health. Mr. Padgett's last day was May 26, hospital spokesperson Angie Glotzbach told Becker's. "He is pursuing other opportunities, and we wish him all the best going forward," she said. Bruce Tassin began serving as interim CEO for both hospitals in the southern Indiana market on May 30. Mr. Tassin brings more than three decades in hospital leadership roles to the position, Ms. Glotzbach said. He previously worked at St. Frances Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria, La., Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center in Santa Fe, N.M., and, most recently, CHI Saint Joseph Health in Lexington, Ky., part of Chicago-based CommonSpirit Health. "Bruce is known for his commitment to strategic growth and patient experience, and he excels at innovative problem solving and is committed to positive, mission-driven outcomes," Ms. Glotzbach said. "We are glad to welcome Bruce to our team." She said no additional leadership changes are expected in the near future. Kimberly Miller, BSN, RN, resigned from her position as executive director of the Minnesota Nursing Board May 18 the same day the board scheduled an emergency meeting to weigh her removal, the Star Tribune reported. The state's nursing board had previously called an emergency meeting slated for May 18 to consider removing Ms. Miller, who had been at the center of complaints around mismanagement, delays in processing licensure applications and disciplinary actions. Over the past several years, many of the board's challenges centered around the surge in temporary permit applications for nurses from other states, but state officials expect that to continue since hospitals continue to struggle with nurse staffing. Ms. Miller's resignation letter was presented by Minnesota Assistant Attorney General Janine Kimball, which ended the emergency board meeting. In her letter, Ms. Miller referenced the unprecedented challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and a switch to a new system the board used to process complaints. "I have given my absolute best to this important position," the letter said, according to the Star Tribune. She became executive director in August 2022. Members of the Oregon Nurses Association at Providence Home Health and Hospice have launched a strike authorization vote. The union represents 400 front-line nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech language pathologists, social workers and bereavement counselors at Providence Home Health and Hospice, according to a May 29 news release from the ONA. Providence Home Health and Hospice is part of Providence, which has 120,000 employees total across Alaska, California, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas and Washington. Union members began voting on whether to authorize a strike May 30, and voting will close June 4. The union and management began negotiating a new labor contract more than seven months ago, according to the union release. Providence, in a statement shared with Becker's, said Providence Home Health and Hospice has "attempted to negotiate constructively with ONA to deliver a comprehensive pay and benefits package to our nurses." The union contends that during bargaining, there has not been enough progress to address members' concerns. Workers say they seek market wages, adequate paid time off, improved health benefits and improved staffing. "We would expect that at this stage of negotiations, we would have more from Providence. But they have yet to propose anything to increase paid leave banks or improve staffing standards," Sharon Barbosa, BSN, RN, bargaining unit chair at Providence Home Health and Hospice, said in the union release. "Right now, everything they have offered would exacerbate the recruitment and retention crisis and make it even harder for us to maintain quality patient care standards." "A strike authorization vote only distracts from meaningful discussion and delays substantial pay raises and expanded benefits for our represented team members," Providence said in its statement. "When it comes to negotiations, Providence Home Health and Hospice believes that talking solves more than walking. We are eager to continue the dialogue with ONA as we work toward finding a mutually agreeable resolution." If workers vote to authorize a strike, it does not mean a labor stoppage will occur. The union would deliver a 10-day notice before going on strike. Syracuse, N.Y.-based Crouse Hospital is seeking to overturn the federal government's decision not to forgive a $10 million paycheck protection loan it received in early 2020 to pay employees during the COVID-19 pandemic, syracuse.com reported May 30. The hospital said in a lawsuit it does not have the money to repay the loan and said it would be "catastrophic" for its finances if it was forced to pay back the loan. The Paycheck Protection Program was launched at the beginning of the pandemic to prevent layoffs. Loans made through the program did not have to be paid back if the funds were used to cover payroll, but the Small Business Administration, which backed the loans, said that Crouse was never eligible for the loan in the first place. Crouse appealed the SBA's decision twice, according to the report, and is now asking a federal court to overturn the agency's decision. In April, the hospital said it would not seek another partner after a failed merger with Syracuse, N.Y.-based SUNY Upstate University Hospital. Stanley Berry, MD, is suing Detroit-based Wayne State School of Medicine for allegedly stifling his advocacy for Black patients and passing him over for promotion after speaking out, The South End reported May 30. Dr. Berry has served as interim chair of the department of obstetrics and gynecology since March 2021 and said he was denied appointment to permanent chair after reporting implicit racial bias against pregnant Black women in the residency program. The conflict arose after Dr. Berry was informed of an incident Jan. 14, 2022, in which a Black mother at Sinai Grace Hospital was sent home in pain. Dr. Berry and two others met with the patient, but Dr. Berry left with the impression the concern was not being taken seriously, according to the report. Dr. Berry wrote a memo to the department outlining the possibility of implicit bias causing conflict in the case. He invited the whole department to a meeting Jan. 27. 2022, to have an open discussion, but the meeting was canceled by the dean. However, the lawsuit says a separate meeting was held in which Dr. Berry was not invited and he allegedly was a topic of conversation. Dr. Berry alleges he was reprimanded for attempting to voice his concerns on implicit bias and in April 2022 was not considered for the permanent chair position due to negative reports from his peers. The lawsuit said some of his co-workers were unwilling to work with him due to the attention he raised about implicit bias earlier in the year. Dr. Berry filed a civil rights lawsuit in U.S. District Court on April 26, 2023. A spokesperson for the university told The South End: "No entity is more committed to the overall health and well-being of Detroit's diverse population than Wayne State University. We are proud of our commitment to diversity and inclusion; it is at the core of everything we do." ECU Health in Greenville, N.C., has developed its own internal travel nurse staffing agency, according to a May 30 news release. The program has hired more than 500 individuals since its inception with 89 percent who have decided to extend their temporary assignments. It is marketed as a "workforce opportunity that combines the freedom of travel nursing with the stability of a local staff position." "For an organization of our size to develop its own staffing agency is significant in the innovation of nursing care and staffing hospitals," Dennis Campbell, the interim president of ECU Health Beaufort Hospital, said in a statement. Editor's note: This article was updated May 31 at 3:30 p.m. CT. The Massachusetts Nurses Association is questioning UMass Memorial Health's stated reasons for closing a maternity ward in Leominster, Mass. The Worcester, Mass.-based system said it plans to close the maternity unit at HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital on Sept. 22 because of staffing shortages and a decline of births in the area. The nurses association cast doubt on the staffing reason, called the decision "callous and unnecessary," and staged a protest outside the hospital on May 30, according to a news release. "Whatever problems that exist with staffing the unit are by design, as hospital management for years has understaffed the hospital as a means of increasing revenue at the expense of patient care," the association said. "Over the years, the MNA has filed dozens of grievances with management over their failure to recruit appropriate staff in all areas of the hospital, including the maternity unit." Amy Gagnon, a labor and delivery nurse who has worked in the birthing center for 12 years, said in the release that the hospital has purposefully frozen hiring practices for over a year "to claim they have no staffing," which she said is "all part of their plan to streamline services to drive patients to Worcester and not what is best for the community." When asked for comment on the association's statements, UMass Memorial Health sent Becker's the same statement announcing the planned closure. "We will continue to work closely with our community obstetric and pediatric providers to maintain access to prenatal and postnatal care," Steve Roach, president of UMass Memorial Health Alliance-Clinton Hospital, said in a statement. "We are committed to transparency as our proposal undergoes regulatory consideration and to ensuring that our patients have access to the high-quality care and services they expect and deserve." Some critics are speaking out against the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force's recommendation to lower the mammogram screening age to 40, KFF Health News reported May 30. In 2009 and again in 2016, the task force raised the age to start routine mammography from 40 to 50 and urged women from 50 to 74 to get mammograms every two years. Women from 40 to 49 who were at high risk were encouraged to speak with their physician about the benefits and harms of screening earlier. However, the most recent draft guidance has lowered the age back to 40. The task force said it made the change due to evidence showing the lowered age would help prevent more deaths, but some physicians are skeptical of the data. The panel cited a 2% annual increase between 2016 and 2019 in the number of women in their forties diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. However, expert opinion on the importance of that data varies, some calling it a minor change in data and others calling it a "sizable jump." "The evidence isn't compelling to start everyone at 40," Jeffrey Tice, MD, a professor of medicine at the University of California San Francisco, told KFF. Advocates like Dr. Tice say universal screening could cause more harm with false-positive results, unnecessary biopsies, overtreatment and patient anxiety. They advocate for individualized care instead. The drafted guidelines are open for public comment until June 5. Afterward, the task force will publish the final recommendations in JAMA. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, right, along with his daughter Ju-ae, meets with members of the Non-permanent Satellite Launch Preparatory Committee in Pyongyang, in this May 16 photo released by the North's official Korean Central News Agency. Yonhap North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is estimated to be experiencing significant sleep disorders and to weigh around 140 kilograms, lawmakers quoted South Korea's state intelligence agency as saying Wednesday. Director Kim Kyou-hyun of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) delivered the report during a briefing to the parliamentary intelligence committee, according to key ruling and opposition members of the committee. "Based on the fact that North Korean authorities have been actively collecting the latest medical information, including medications such as zolpidem, for the treatment of insomnia in high-ranking officials abroad in April, the NIS estimates Chairman Kim is suffering from significant sleep disorders," Rep. Yoo Sang-bum of the ruling People Power Party told reporters after the closed-door briefing. He said the NIS also stated that it is closely watching the possibility of Kim falling into a vicious circle of depending more on alcohol and nicotine and suffering worsening insomnia as the North has been importing large quantities of foreign cigarettes and high-quality snacks. The agency also reported "Chairman Kim looked very tired with noticeable dark circles under his eyes during his public appearance on May 16" and an analysis using artificial intelligence of some of his recent photos evaluated his weight to be around 140 kg, Yoo said. "Since the end of last year, scratches and bruises have continuously been observed on Chairman Kim's hands and arms, which are suspected to be a combination of allergies and stress-induced dermatitis," the lawmaker quoted the NIS director as saying. On North Korea's food crisis, the NIS reported the number of deaths from starvation and suicide seems to have recently surged in the country due to an exacerbated food shortage. According to the NIS, the prices of corn and rice in the country have jumped by about 60 percent and 30 percent, respectively, in the first quarter of this year from a year ago, hitting the highest levels since Kim took office in late 2011. As a result, the agency estimated, the number of deaths from starvation has tripled compared to previous years. The number of those who committed suicide also jumped by 40 percent from a year ago, prompting the Pyongyang leader to call for measures to prevent such acts, which he defined as an "act of treason against socialism," the NIS said. (Yonhap) Screenings that were delayed due to COVID-19 are likely to contribute to an exponential increase in cancer diagnosis totals over the next few years, experts say. During the pandemic, while COVID-19 cases climbed, many chose to delay routine screenings and appointments to avoid catching the virus, but now those put-off appointments are catching up to them and to the healthcare system. To quantify just how many cases may have been missed, researchers from Boston University compared pre-pandemic diagnosis levels for certain cancers to 2020 incidents. They found that there were 18.1 percent fewer diagnoses of lung cancer, 14.6 percent fewer for breast cancer, and 18.2 percent fewer for colorectal cancer. "The incidence for all these cancers decreased, but there's no reason to believe that cancer incidence dropped during the pandemic in 2020. The data we observe is not likely due to decreasing incidence rates, but I think more likely reflective of missing cancer diagnoses," Kelsey Romatoski, MD, author of the study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons and general surgery resident at Boston Medical Center said in a statement. "These missed diagnoses are likely going to lead to delays in treatment and upstaging of disease in the coming years." Their findings suggest there may be many who "currently harbor undiagnosed cancers" they wrote. The delay is particularly concerning to healthcare workers because an influx of future cases and treatments all at once could overburden an already strained system. A man in police custody died May 25 after falling approximately 20 feet from a window at a California hospital, the San Jose Police Department said May 26. The man, in custody for violating a court order, was admitted to O'Connor Hospital in San Jose for a preexisting medical condition. Around 2 a.m. May 25, the man threatened to strike an officer and nurse in his room with a metal oxygen tank, according to police. The officer and nurse left the room to get help, during which time the man used the oxygen tank to break a window and jump onto a ledge. The man fell from the ledge, experiencing life-threatening injuries. Hospital staff provided immediate medical care and the man was transported to a nearby trauma hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The Santa Clara County district attorney's office and the San Jose Police Department's homicide unit have launched a joint criminal investigation into the incident. Editor's note: Becker's has reached out to O'Connor Hospital for comment and will update the article if more information becomes available. Infectious disease threats are growing and can have fatal consequences for patients and the public. Becker's has reported on six infectious diseases outbreaks that occurred in the first half of 2023 and resulted in at least one death. They are listed below in reverse chronological order. This is not an exhaustive list. 1. In mid-May, Texas health officials warned clinicians about a string of suspected fungal meningitis cases among state residents who underwent surgery in Mexico. Officials have identified 25 confirmed and suspected cases, including two deaths. 2. On May 15, the CDC confirmed four deaths among people who used eye drops contaminated with a drug-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In total, the outbreak has affected more than 80 people in 18 states. 3. A kindergartner at a Michigan school died April 26 amid a classroom outbreak of haemophilus influenzae, an invasive bacteria that can cause various infections, according to the Detroit Free Press. 4. Seven patients who contracted Klebsiella pneumoniae in an outbreak at Seattle-based Virginia Mason Medical Center have died, the hospital confirmed April 28. 5. In April, a fungal outbreak sickened more than 100 people at a Michigan paper mill. Fourteen people required hospitalization and one person died after developing blastomycosis, a rare fungal infection caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis. 6. In January, Mississippi health officials disclosed an outbreak of Candida auris that resulted in the deaths of two long-term care facility residents. Washington state recently passed a bill focused on ensuring hospital staffing standards, but nurses and unions say an issue remains unsolved: the backlog of staffing complaints, according to a May 29 report from The Columbian and Crosscut. From 2020 to 2022, about 185 hospital staffing complaints were filed to the state's Department of Health. None of them resulted in fines, according to the report. The new law does not mandate a staff-to-patient ratio; it requires hospital staffing committees to recommend ratio rules to their leadership and executives to make adjustments before submitting the plan to state officials. If a hospital falls below 80 percent compliance and does not institute corrective plans given from the state, the facility can face a monthly fine of up to $50,000. Currently, there are thousands of complaints piling on the desks of hospital staffing committees, according to the news outlets. At one Washington hospital, a nurse's complaint said staffing issues are "an upper management hospital 'culture' problem,'" and hectic days "are putting the health and safety of not only our patients, but also my staff, of whom I am trying to protect, at increased and unnecessary risk." The hospital is St. Michael Medical Center in Silverdale, part of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, which noted 31 staffing complaints in 2022 and where a nurse called 911 that fall asking for EMS teams to help with an overcrowded ED. Its chief nursing officer is stepping down in June. The Department of Health cleared the nurse's complaint 11 days after receiving it because, "based on the information provided, no violation of hospital law occurred," according to reports obtained by Crosscut. "As a health system committed to providing high-quality and safe care, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health takes all complaints seriously," Kelly Campbell, vice president of marketing and communications at the system, told Becker's. "We have a standard process in place at all of our hospitals to review and immediately address patient concerns." Dianne Aroh, RN, senior vice president and chief nursing officer of Virginia Mason Franciscan, told Becker's the system "is excited about the promise of this legislation to help us continually improve hospital staffing processes." The Becker's Hospital Review website uses cookies to display relevant ads and to enhance your browsing experience. By continuing to use our site, you acknowledge that you have read, that you understand, and that you accept our Cookie Policy and our Privacy Policy Trinity Health and four surgeons have sued Grand Rapids-based Orthopaedic Associates of Michigan, accusing the practice of holding a monopoly in Kent County. The Livonia, Mich.-based health system alleges OAM has "engaged in a pattern and practice of unjustified enforcement of its noncompetition clauses to force physicians unhappy with its operations to leave Kent County," according to a lawsuit filed Jan. 31 in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan. OAM has the lion's share of the orthopedic market in Kent County 64 percent, the lawsuit said. Its biggest competitor is Grand Rapids-based Spectrum Health, which holds a 23 percent share. The practice's noncompete clause precludes resigning physicians from practicing within a 50-mile radius of OAM for one year, the lawsuit said. Four surgeons, Timothy Henne, MD; Timothy Lenters, MD; John Healey, MD; and Geoffrey Sandman, MD who are also plaintiffs worked at River Valley Orthopedics, which was acquired by OAM in 2018. According to the lawsuit, the four submitted resignation letters in September effective March 16, 2023. The surgeons want to work for IHA, an affiliate of Trinity Health, as employed physicians, but OAM "has insisted on enforcement of its noncompete clause, and has refused to permit them to do so," the lawsuit said. The four surgeons perform most of their cases at Trinity-affiliated Saint Mary's, and the lawsuit argues enforcing noncompete clauses would affect that hospital's ability to provide orthopedic care and interfere with the orthopedic residency and emergency care. Kenneth Easton, MD, president of OAM, described the situation as "unfortunate" and said Trinity Health Michigan was, "utilizing whatever means necessary to achieve its desired business goals at the expense of one of the few independent orthopedic groups serving West Michigan," in a Feb. 2 email to Becker's. He said he expects the outcomes to follow similar cases in the past. "The core dispute revolves around an elaborate effort to nullify the industry-wide, common contractual obligations of physicians departing their existing practices," Dr. Easton said. "The remainder of the complaints in the suit are designed to leverage this core issue. Medical practices and hospital systems, including Trinity, routinely enforce such provisions in their physician contracts. Historically, such provisions have been upheld and enforced by the courts. We look forward to a favorable outcome." Trinity Health seeks a jury trial for damages and for the four surgeons to be released from any employment restrictions. The health system also wants a judge to rule OAM's noncompete clauses as violations of federal law. All sectors supported by Invest NI grew sales in 2022, the agency has said in its latest KPI report Northern Ireland firms supported by economic development agency Invest NI account for 75% of all exports and almost 80% of all sales outside the region, according to its latest figures. External sales, comprising exports and trade with Great Britain, broke through a 20bn milestone for the first time in 2022, the agency said. The agency was subject to a critical review last year by former BBC chairman Sir Michael Lyons. His report highlighted conflict at the top of the organisation as well as a failure to engage with areas outside Belfast. But while it called for profound change at Invest NI, it stopped short of calling for the quango to be scrapped. Invest NIs key performance indicator (KPI) report published today outlines growth across employment, sales, external sales and exports for Invest NI-backed businesses between 2021 and 2022. All sectors supported by Invest NI grew sales in 2022, including notable increases of 1bn in sales and 917 jobs for advanced engineering and manufacturing, and 800m for agri-food. Life and health sciences and digital and creative both reported increases of around 20% in sales, as well as new jobs totalling a respective 871 and 605. Employment rose by 3% to 135,214 people, while an increase of at least 15% was posted across export, external and total sales. Of 26.3bn in total sales generated by firms receiving support from Invest NI, domestic sales accounted for 5.8bn and external sales 20.5bn comprised of 9.1bn in export sales and 11.4bn in trade with GB. Mel Chittock, interim CEO of Invest NI, said: These are a very strong set of performance indicators, particularly given the impact the EU Exit and Covid-19 has had on the business community right across Northern Ireland. This growth demonstrates the resilience and endeavours of NI businesses. It is also testament to the professionalism and commitment of Invest NI staff and to the help and support of our key partners and stakeholders. These results provide us with a very firm foundation from which we can continue to support the growth of the NI economy and deliver on the Department for the Economys 10X vision. The Republic of Ireland continues to be the largest export market, while greatest growth in sales at +16% was to the Americas including the US, Canada and South America. Invest NIs KPIs are designed to measure the value of employment and economic activity generated by the businesses, and to gain an understanding of the contribution Invest NI-supported businesses make to the wider NI economy. This photo, provided by Korea's industry ministry, shows Korean and Japanese officials holding a bilateral energy dialogue in the southern port city of Busan, May 25. Yonhap Korea and Japan on Wednesday held their first regular dialogue on steel industry cooperation in five years to discuss ways to boost technology exchanges and to jointly respond to the net-zero market trend, the industry ministry said. The 20th Korea-Japan Steel Dialogue was held in Tokyo on the day as the latest in a series of bilateral economic and industry meetings amid a thaw in their diplomatic relations following summit talks in recent months. The last meeting of its kind was held in November 2018. The meeting brought together working-level officials of the two governments, as well as steelmaker associations of both nations, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. The participants shared the assessment on the global steel market and explored ways to boost cooperation on carbon-related regulations, such as the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). The CBAM calls for levying an import charge on steel, cement, electricity, fertilizer, aluminum and other related items equivalent to their carbon emissions from production. The regulation scheme will fully take effect in 2026 after a transition period set to begin in October 2023. The two sides also discussed how to push for technology exchanges for low-emission steel products and ways to beef up their steel trade, according to the ministry. "Bilateral cooperation in the steel industry became ever more crucial in the face of changing market circumstances and the growing trade protectionism. The two sides vowed to continue to join hands," the ministry said in a release. (Yonhap) Donna Traynor has taken an employment case against the BBC Former Newsline presenter Donna Traynor has arrived for the first day of evidence in her employment tribunal against the BBC. Ms Traynor is taking an industrial tribunal against her former employer and its Northern Ireland director, Adam Smyth. BBC NI director Adam Smyth She dramatically quit her job at the corporation in November 2021. Read more Donna Traynor raised concerns she would be unable to work in radio due to disability, tribunal hears Once one of Northern Irelands most high-profile broadcasters, she joined the BBC in 1989, presenting radio news bulletins, before moving into television. The hearing in Belfast is set to last several days. Ms Traynor arrived wearing a grey trouser suit and appearing upbeat about the proceedings. She is represented by Paddy Lyttle KC. The BBC and Mr Smyth are represented by senior counsel Frank O'Donoghue KC. The case is due to start at 11am. James Joyce seated in an armchair by Graham Knuttel. Tributes paid to Irish artist Graham Knuttel who has died. Tributes have been paid to the renowned Irish artist Graham Knuttel who died aged 69. The Dublin-born creatives family confirmed his passing in a statement released on Tuesday. "It is with great sadness that we write to let you know that Graham passed away peacefully on Saturday 27th of May, 2023, surrounded by his family, it said. You will know that he engaged in life as he engaged in his art - that is to say, boldly and without reserve. "He greatly valued the cut and thrust of debate and the vivid colours that satire and dark humour deliver. We know that he is grateful to you all for having made the connection. Belfast chef Michael Deane shared one of Mr Knuttels paintings on social media has he expressed his gratitude and sadness. Rest easy my friend, he posted on Instagram alongside heart emojis. "Thank you for your great work that contributed to @deaneslovefish @eatatdeanes. Fellow artist Terry Bradley also expressed sadness following the announcement. "Unbelievable, awful, he wrote online. Mr Knuttels canvasses are famed for their bold colours and devilish portrayals of the human condition and have caught to eye of high profile admirers around the world. James Joyce seated in an armchair by Graham Knuttel. Robert De Niro, Sylvester Stallone, Bertie Ahern and Joanna Lumley as well as the Swiss Bank Corporation, Goldman Sachs International and Saatchi & Saatchi are counted among his fans. His passing comes just over one year after he underwent a successful kidney transplant the vital organ was donated by his wife Ruth. Speaking to the Sunday Independent from his hospital bed in Beaumont at the time, Mr Knuttel said: She was a perfect match. Thats amore. Its love. Words cant express how I feel. Its just too difficult. I guess now Ill have to behave when I go home. Four years earlier he had been rushed to St Vincents hospital with kidney failure while waiting for a new liver which he received in 2020. President Michael D Higgins has offered his condolences to Mr Knuttels loved ones. "May I send my condolences to the family and friends of Graham Knuttel, who throughout his life made such a valuable contribution to Ireland's artistic community, he said. Meanwhile artist Niall OLoughlin hailed Mr Knuttel as true gent. A Co Armagh man was handed a life sentence today after he admitted murdering his neighbour. Connor Lawrence McNeill appeared at Belfast Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to two charges arising from the fatal shooting of Stephen Barriskill in October 2021. The 55-year-old, from Whitesides Hill in Portadown, confirmed his identity to a court clerk. His barrister Niall Hunt addressed Judge Patricia Smyth and asked that McNeill be re-arraigned on the two charges he faced. McNeill was then charged with murdering Stephen Barriskill on October 26, 2021 and when asked how he pleaded, he replied guilty, Your Honour. He was also charged with possessing a shotgun and two cartridges with intent to endanger life on the same date and he again replied guilty, Your Honour when the charge was put to him. Although no details about the murder were aired during today's hearing, a police officer told a previous court McNeill was accused of entering Mr Barriskills home on the evening of October 26, 2021, and shooting the 63-year-old twice in the chest with a shotgun. Stephen Barriskill Crown barrister Neil Connor KC said he had spoken to Mr Barriskills family and that several Victim Impact Reports will be compiled ahead of sentencing. The prosecutor also told Judge Smyth that McNeill had a criminal record and that those details would be forwarded to the court. Regarding defence submissions, Mr Hunt revealed McNeill is on medication for anxiety and panic attacks and that several reports including a psychiatric report are being sought. Judge Smyth then addressed McNeill and after telling him to stand up, she said: The only sentence I can pass is one of life imprisonment. It now falls to me to fix the tariff, which is the minimum period you just serve in prison before being considered by the Parole Commissioners for release. The Belfast Recorder set the date for the plea hearing as September 1 but said she would review the case on June 28. McNeill was then led from the dock in handcuffs by prison staff and taken back into custody ahead of sentencing. A trial concerning two men accused of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl out walking her dog started in Belfast today. Caoimhin Joseph Corr (24) and 20-year old Thomas McDonnell have both been charged with, and deny, sexually assaulting a child in the Ormeau Road area last January. Corr, from Norglen Parade in Belfast, has also been charged with damaging the child's mobile phone. As the case against the two defendants was opened at Belfast Crown Court, the jury was told the alleged incident occurred on the evening of January 24, 2022. Crown prosecutor Kate McKay told the seven men and four women that around 8.20pm that evening, a 12-year-old girl was out walking her dog on the Ormeau Road. Ms McKay said that as the youngster turned into Delhi Street, she noticed four males hanging about in the vicinity of some cars. The group then moved towards an alleyway and as the young girl walked passed them, they started to shout comments towards her. Ms McKay said that after remarks were made about her body, the young girl told them leave me alone, I'm only 12. As she quickened her pace, the girl was grabbed from behind by one of the group wearing a grey jacket whom the Crown say was McDonnell. This male then told the girl she had a nice bum and nice boobs before he reached towards her, grabbed her chin and kissed her. McDowell, from Donegall Road in Belfast, is then accused of placing his hand down her trousers and touching her bottom. The jury heard that following this, one of the other males walked behind her and pushed her shoulder then a third who the Crown say was Corr stood in front of her and blocked her path. Ms McKay said Corr then said to the girl where's my kiss? then touched her chest area. She told him to stop, reiterated she was only 12 and tried to get her phone out to call her mother and at this point Corr attempted to grab the mobile from her hand which fell to the ground and was damaged. The girl then saw people on the street and after these members of the public shouted at the group of men, they ran off. After contacting her parents, the girl and her father drove around the area in his car and she was able to point them out. Police were alerted and Corr and McDonnell were arrested on the Ormeau Bridge. During interview, the pair denied the allegations made by the girl. The Crown opening concluded with Ms McKay telling the jury that when the hoodie worn by the girl underwent forensic testing, Corr's DNA was located on the chest area of the top. People on the streets of Belfast give their verdict on the rising trend of those who are taking up vaping, writes Jessica Rice Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks call for tighter restrictions on vape marketing in an attempt to reduce the levels of young people taking up the habit was welcomed on the streets of Belfast yesterday. It comes days after the Prime Minister expressed concern about his own daughters potentially being targeted by vape marketing. The number of young people in Northern Ireland vaping continues to rise, but Calvin OKane (23), from Belfast isnt a fan. Calvin O'Kane Its disgusting, I think a lot of people would equate it to being healthier but I think theres no difference between smoking 20 cigarettes a day and vaping all day, he said. He feels that in the coming years we will learn vaping is less healthy than we currently believe it to be. Calvin feels that more can be done to stop young people vaping. I think you need to nip it in the bud at an early age. I think nowadays vapes seem to be more marketed at a younger audience, he said. People on the streets of Belfast give their verdict on the rising trend of vaping Most of the people who were willing to give their opinion were opposed to vaping, and the majority of people who admitted to vaping werent comfortable speaking. However, one vaper who did was Matthew Curry (22), from Richhill, Co Armagh. He started smoking socially and then gradually moved on to vaping, believing that it is a safer alternative to smoking. I did my research project in university to basically determine whether it was safer or not. What I saw was that it still has a lot of bad stuff to do with it but it generally is a safer nicotine delivery than smoking cigarettes, so I think it is definitely a better alternative from every aspect. However, he does believe that disposable vapes are making it easier for young people and children to become addicted to nicotine. Matthew Curry You see ones that are maybe 13 or 14 running about and they have the disposables, he said. Matthew also feels that the rise in vaping represents a change in youth culture. Its modernised, its electric and obviously, the taste of cigarettes, people arent drawn to them but with this its fruity, theres loads of different flavours that people are accustomed to. Its not even that they are doing it for the nicotine, they are doing it just to fit in, its just such a normal thing to do now, he said. Grace Knight Grace Knight (20) from Dungannon feels vaping is becoming a unhealthy habit for the young. I think its bad and I think its sort of become a trend for younger people now. They are watching their friends and older people and their family members [vape] and I just think its not good for anyone, she said. She feels that vaping has now become more popular than smoking among young people. People that didnt smoke cigarettes before are now smoking vapes, she said. Grace also feels that some companies are trying to target children while advertising their nicotine products. I think with the flavours and the colours and the packaging it probably is marketed towards younger people, she said. Vapes and electronic cigarettes were first introduced in the UK in 2008 as an alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes. The original goal of these newer nicotine products was to help smokers quit smoking. One smoker who tried to use vaping to help him cut out nicotine is Tadghe Coleman (20), from Co Louth. He admits that smoking electronic cigarettes didnt help him kick the habit and he has now returned to smoking traditional cigarettes. I bought one of those electronic cigarettes to try and cut back on smoking but Ive went back to smoking because I dont really like the vapes. Tadghe feels that if vapes and electronic cigarettes were advertised the same way traditional cigarettes are, it might deter young people from smoking them. Even if we had something like on the cigarette packets were you have those really really horrific images, do something like that for the vapes because they are all displayed in nice pastel colours, very attractive, everyone likes them. Donna Traynors barrister claims BBC pursued her relentlessly and refused to make reasonable adjustments for her disability Former Newsline presenter Donna Traynor pictured on the first day of evidence in her employment tribunal against the BBC (Presseye). Former BBC Newsline presenter Donna Traynor faced "bullying and harassment" after she raised a grievance about a plan to change her role at the corporation, an industrial tribunal has heard. A senior lawyer acting for Ms Traynor claimed she was discriminated against on the grounds of age, gender and disability. During the first morning of evidence in the employment tribunal taken by Ms Traynor against the BBC, Paddy Lyttle KC claimed that his client had her role diminished unfairly. Ms Traynor is taking an industrial tribunal against her former employer and its Northern Ireland director, Adam Smyth. It follows a proposal to move her to a radio position in 2019. The barrister said the plan was presented to Ms Traynor on her 55th birthday. Ms Traynor dramatically quit her job at the corporation in November 2021. Once one of Northern Irelands most high-profile broadcasters, the tribunal heard that she joined the BBC in 1989, presenting radio news bulletins, before moving into television. In August 2006 she was offered a two-year contract presenting the flagship 6.30pm Newsline programme, five days a week. In 2008, the three-person tribunal was told that she was given a permanent contract. Mr Lyttle said that his client had been engaged specifically to work on Newline five days a week. He said that she had yearly appraisals that graded her work to a high standard and that during her time as the programmes presenter, audiences continued to grow. He also said that Ms Traynor had been assured that her role would not be diminished by Mr Smyth during an annual appraisal held in December 2018. Addressing the age discrimination portion of her case, Mr Lyttle KC claimed that a voluntary redundancy scheme was a ploy to get rid of the old crop. Adam Smyth, Director of BBC NI, arrives at the tribunal. Credit: Presseye The scheme was available to anyone who presented a TV or radio programme more than 30 minutes in length. The tribunal heard that veteran journalists Noel Thompson, Seamus McKee and Wendy Austin took up the redundancy offer along with Karen Patterson. Three were in their 60s, possibly 70s, no one of a more junior ranking, or younger age, could apply, Mr Lyttle claimed. Frank ODonoghue KC, who is representing the BBC and Mr Smyth, challenged the assertion that the scheme was not a true redundancy but intended to move on older presenters. He said there is nothing to suggest that this was not a true redundancy process. The tribunal heard that Ms Traynor was told that under restructuring, she would be sharing the presenting of Newsline with BBC colleague Tara Mills, alongside a male presenter who was to be recruited. She would also be expected to extend her duties to present the Evening Extra Radio Ulster programme. It was said that at the time the BBC were trying to get more female presenters onto their radio output. Mr Lyttle referred to a meeting where Ms Traynor said she was being used to "settle a gender imbalance" issue at Radio Ulster. The barrister said that the BBC should have been working on using good presenters and not in terms of gender, a practice he said went out with the ark. Mr Lyttle added that Ms Traynor stated in one BBC meeting about Mr Smyths plans: If I was called Donald Traynor he wouldnt be moving me to radio. Mr Lyttle said an internal grievance process carried out by the BBC in 2020 was a "complete whitewash", adding: "It was not a genuine hearing of the grievance, it was protecting Mr Smyth." The barrister said Ms Traynor had repeatedly raised concerns about the fact she is deaf in her left ear and would not be able to work on radio. He said his client had explained "time and time again" that she needed to be able to see who was speaking to her and was also concerned about wearing headphones. Referring to Mr Smyth, the barrister said: "His aim was to move Donna Traynor from TV, two to three days a week to radio, irrespective of her disability." Mr Lyttle said that for several months in 2021, Ms Traynor was brought to meetings where she was asked if she could do a radio trial. He said there was a "clear refusal to make reasonable adjustments" for her disability, adding: "They pursued her relentlessly for months, they threatened her, they harassed her and they bullied her." The barrister added that between June and August 2021 Ms Traynor was removed from all broadcast duties. He said the BBC used concerns about her hearing issues to claim she was a "risk editorially". The tribunal is expected to last over a week. Another shot of firefighters attending to a large fire at a building in Samuel Street in Belfast city centre on Wednesday morning. Photo: Press Eye General view of firefighters attending to a large fire at a building in Samuel Street in Belfast city centre on Wednesday morning. Photo: Press Eye Firefighters deal with the blaze at Samuel Street in Belfast city centre. A man has been released on police bail pending further questioning following an arrest in connection with a major blaze in Belfast city centre. The cause of the fire, which destroyed a listed building at Samuel Street in the early hours of Wednesday morning, remains under investigation. The man was arrested around the same time as the fire broke out, and remained in custody overnight. The operation to douse the flames included six fire engines, two aerial appliances and 40 firefighters. Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service Group Commander Gerry Clifton said: "We can confirm that the fire at a derelict building on Samuel Street, Belfast is now over. "The cause of the fire remains under investigation and we will continue to work with the Police Service of Northern Ireland and our other partner agencies during the course of the investigation. NIFRS received the initial call at 2.40am. "At the height of the incident, there were 40 firefighters and eight officers involved in the firefighting operation. Six fire appliances from Central, Whitla, Springfield, Westland and Cadogan, a Command Support Unit from Lisburn and two aerial appliances from Springfield and Knock attended the incident. "Our firefighters worked tirelessly throughout the duration of the incident to ensure that the fire was brought under control and prevented the spread to nearby premises in Belfast city centre. "We would like to thank the public for their patience whilst we dealt with the incident." Smoke continued to rise from the building on Wednesday afternoon as firefighters attended to the remnants of the fire. Another shot of firefighters attending to a large fire at a building in Samuel Street in Belfast city centre on Wednesday morning. Photo: Press Eye NIFRS Group commander David Harbinson previously said the cause of the blaze was undetermined at this stage as surrounding roads were closed in case of further hotspots within the building. It will be subject to an investigation with our colleagues in the PSNI, he added. We have now extinguished the fire. Once weve closed the incident, were going to try to bring a bit of normality back to the city centre. "A fire of this significance is very challenging for crews to deal with. The crews have done an excellent job in preventing the fire from spreading to adjoining properties, where we could have had a more serious fire even though the one we were dealing with was quite serious. We did have a wee bit of a challenge in the area with water supplies, thats normal. Our colleagues in Northern Ireland Water did boost the water for us. Mr Harbinson said the fire service worked closely with other agencies like the PSNI and Belfast City Council. Its very much been a multi-agency approach in dealing with this incident, he added. A command support unit and two aerial appliances were sent to incident. Local residents were requested to keep windows closed. The PSNI earlier closed North Street, Millfield, Union Street, Royal Avenue, Gresham Street and Winetavern Street as a result of the fire and had asked motorists to avoid the area and seek an alternative routes for journeys. The building at 166-174 North Street is a B2-listed site with an estimated construction date of 1899, making it a Victorian-era build, according to the Ulster Architectural Society. The site, neighbouring the CastleCourt shopping centre, close to the Cathedral Quarter, was once used as an art school as well as for offices, warehouse and shops, but had become derelict. Several buildings in Belfast city centre have been hit by fires in recent years. General view of firefighters attending to a large fire at a building in Samuel Street in Belfast city centre on Wednesday morning. Photo: Press Eye In April a blaze at the sight of a former nightclub in the Mays Meadow area was treated as a deliberate ignition by the PSNI. The listed Old Cathedral Building in the Cathedral Quarter less than half a mile from the fire at North Street was gutted by fire in October 2022. A number of buildings in the North Street area are listed for their architectural importance. Ani Kanakaki-Ainsworth, head of marketing and communications at the Linen Hall, the oldest library in Belfast, said the loss of a Victorian-era building was "very, very sad". "Landmarks of our city, they are connected with the histories, with the people. People will remember them since they were young children, walking about to see all these landmarks gone, it's devastating," she said. The Linen Hall, which was founded in 1788, remains open to the public. Ms Kanakaki-Ainsworth said the number of fires in historical buildings in Belfast is a concern. "It's a big, big concern. In our organisation we're lucky enough... we didn't have an incident (of a fire) in many, many, many years," she said. "But it doesn't make it any less sad or any less worrying for everybody else." A-24-year old Lithuanian national was extradited to Lithuania from Belfast on Wednesday. He is to stand trial for an assault which occurred in Lithuanian capital, Vilnius, in September 2019. The man was detained in Belfast last year on an international arrest warrant and first appeared before Laganside Court later the same day. Today the extradition process was completed with his successful extradition to Lithuania. Sergeant Davey from the International Policing Unit said: "This extradition involved the working partnership of the Lithuanian Police, National Crime Agency and the Police Service's International Policing Unit. This is an example that shows our continued determination and commitment to work with International Law Enforcement partners to track down wanted persons and bring offenders to justice. Our message is clear that we will relentlessly pursue those that are trying to delay or deny justice to victims of crime. The victim had to be taken to hospital (Pic: Aodhan Roberts) A man in his 40s is currently in stable condition after he was shot in the legs and back in north Belfast. The attack occurred in the Antrim Road area after four masked men entered a property shortly after 10.15pm on Wednesday. The man was later taken to hospital for treatment. A second man in the property was uninjured however a police spokesperson said he been left badly shaken. Detective Sergeant Kitchen continued: Our investigation into this incident, which we are treating as attempted murder, is ongoing, and we are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time and saw what happened, or who may have any information which may assist, to get in touch. The number to call is 101, quoting reference number 2345 of 31/05/23. Information can also be given anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Sinn Fein MLA Caral Ni Chuilin has condemned the shooting. There is no place for guns on our streets," she said. This reckless attack has caused disruption for residents tonight and left people living in the nearby flats traumatised. Anyone with information on this attack should bring it forward to the PSNI. A gun and silencer seized during a search operation targeting the New IRA in Londonderry were to be "used in a violent attack on police", a detective has said. Detectives from the PSNIs Terrorism Investigation Unit (TIU) recovered the suspected munitions during raids targeting the dissident republican group on Tuesday. A quantity of suspected ammunition was also seized during proactive searches in the Ballymagroarty area of the city in addition to component parts of pipe bombs and other Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The items have been sent for forensic examination. Two men, aged 36 and 59, were arrested under the Terrorism Act 2000 as part of the operation but have since been released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service. Suspected munitions seized in Derry raids targeting New IRA PSNI Detective Inspector OFlaherty said: The seizure of these suspected munitions is hugely significant. We believe these would have been used in a violent attack on police with the aim of killing or, at the very least, causing serious injury. The fact that these items were found in a residential area also underlines the recklessness of those involved. It also shows the utter contempt they have for their own communities. No community deserves to live under this threat. We are carrying out further searches in the area this evening and we understand and appreciate the disruption this will cause, but I want to reassure you of this - our presence in the area and activity we carry out is about keeping people safe. That is our priority. We will endeavour to work through this operation as quickly as we can, and we will keep you updated with any developments. The Belfast Telegraph understands police are in the Ballymagroarty area again this evening. Detective Inspector OFlaherty warned that violent dissident republicans are immersed in a campaign to kill police. "They are constantly trying to undermine the work of police to build safer communities, he added. Every day police officers come into work, they go out into communities like Ballymagroarty and they work to build relationships and tackle the issues that matter to local people. Support and information from the local community is vital to fighting the scourge of terrorism. Anything you know, or anything you have seen - share that information with us and help us put these criminals out of business. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai chairs the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework meeting in Detroit, Michigan, U.S., May 27. Reuters-Yonhap Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun met with officials of major economic and industry associations Wednesday to discuss latest developments regarding the U.S.-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and the future path of its negotiations, his office said. Ahn explained to the participants the result of the IPEF ministerial meeting held last week in Detroit, where its 14 member nations reached an agreement on supply chain resilience, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. Supply chain resilience is one of four key pillars of the framework, and it was the first time for the member nations to agree upon specific measures since U.S. President Joe Biden launched the platform in May 2022 in a move to counter China's growing influence in the region. Ahn also briefed the participants on ongoing negotiations on the three remaining fields of trade, clean economy and fair economy, and exchanged opinions about Korea's stance on the future path and policy measures to maximize benefits for domestic companies. "The deal on supply chains lays the foundation for joint responses to any global supply chain disruptions among the member nations. The government will strive for making tangible results in the other sectors so as to provide our companies with stable business circumstances," Ahn said. The fourth round of official negotiations is scheduled to take place in Korea's southern port city of Busan in the second half of this year. The 14 member nations includes Korea, the U.S., Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, and they 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 had come to $498.4 billion, accounting for 39.6 percent of Seoul's total trade that year. (Yonhap) A 12-year-old boy has been hospitalised with injuries including concussion following a Derry assault described by police as a sectarian hate crime. Police said the boy was attacked by three males and one female in the vicinity of the City Walls in the Fountain area on Monday afternoon. The attackers are all believed to be of young teenage age. SDLP leader Colum Eastwood condemned the incident and said such attacks have no place in Derry and Northern Ireland. Its up to us as a society to foster reconciliation, bridge divisions, and build understanding based on respect between our communities at a young age, Mr Eastwood said. A new generation of young people, free from the sectarian shackles of the past, must be allowed to flourish in Derry and across Ireland. Our young people should not live in fear in their own city, and I hope the boy who was attacked is feeling better soon. I would encourage anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist the police in their investigation." Police confirmed one of the males involved assaulted the victim, kicking him on the leg and punching him on the face. A member of the public intervened by shouting and the three males and female then ran off towards Bishop Street. The PSNI confirmed the boy was taken to hospital for treatment of his injuries, which included a concussion. PSNI Inspector Michael Gahan added: "This was a nasty assault which has left the victim understandably distressed. This assault is being investigated as a sectarian hate crime and we encourage anyone who can assist with our enquiries to get in touch with us by calling 101, and quoting reference number 1061 of 29/05/23. Chief Inspector Graham Dodds posing with his MBE award which was presented by Princess Anne. The head of the PSNIs road policing unit has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for his services to communities across Northern Ireland. Chief Inspector Graham Dodds was given the MBE honour by The Princess Royal, Princess Anne during a ceremony at Windsor Castle on Wednesday. His department sees him lead the Police Service of Northern Ireland's commitment to policing together for safe, secure and efficient roads. Mr Dodds famously helped save a young boys life when he donated him his kidney in 2021 after reading a desperate plea from the boys mother in a newspaper. Calling the decision to part with his kidney, simple the serving police officer went through the four-hour operation at Belfast City Hospital to aid Joshua Dolan. Joshuas mother Mary later said: If I was to say thank you to Graham 1,000 times, it wouldnt be enough but he knows how much we appreciate what he has done. He has saved Joshuas life. It is as plain and simple as that. Mr Dodds choice to help Joshua resulted in him being awarded the 999 Hero award at the Sunday Life Spirit of Northern Ireland awards in association with Ulster Bank. He accepted the prize during the ceremony at the Culloden Hotel in 2021 alongside his wife Nicola. Mr Dodds, who previously commanded the Omagh and Fermanagh RAF Cadets, was a part of one of the last honours list conducted by Queen Elizabeth before her death in September. In 2021 he received British Citizen Award 'Medal of Honour' for community service. Congratulating him on his honour, the PSNIs official NI Road Policing and Safety tweeted: Head of Road Policing, Chief Inspector Graham Dodds, was recently awarded his MBE Medal by HRH Princess Anne at a ceremony at Windsor Castle for 'Services to communities across Northern Ireland'. Many congratulations Another shot of the interior of the new crematorium in Newtownabbey. Photo: McNickle Church Interior Solutions A shot of the interior of the new crematorium in Newtownabbey. Photo: McNickle Church Interior Solutions A new crematorium is set to open in Newtownabbey next week. It will be the second facility in Northern Ireland and will provide 30 cremations a week. Built by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, the new facility cost around 5m to build. It is located just off the A8 from Sandyknowes Roundabout (M2) to Larne, directly opposite Ballyearl Arts and Leisure Centre on the Doagh Road, Newtownabbey. The councils website says the new crematorium is expected to open to the public in early summer 2023. It joins Northern Irelands only other crematorium, Roselawn, which is based in Belfast. The crematorium will open Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm, and will offer six cremations a day. Services will be 45 minutes long, and there will be space for 164 mourners in the new building as well as an overflow area. All faiths will be welcome to use the new facility, and livestreaming of services will be available for those unable to attend services. The councils website says the grounds and building will be well away from the road, and that a pond as well as native trees and plant life have been included to encourage a sense of calm. The pricing for the 2023/2024 is 475 for residents in the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough and 950 for non-residents A stalwart west Belfast shopkeeper has died following a two-vehicle crash in Crumlin which has left another man fighting for his life in hospital. Robert Laverty died at the scene of the collision which happened on Moira Road on Wednesday morning. The 74-year-old, who ran a shop in the Dairy Farm in west Belfast for decades, was driving a Renault Scenic which was involved in the crash with a Ford Fiesta at 7.15am. Tributes have been posted on Twitter with customers describing him as a gentle soul and a lovely wee man. One user tweeted: I knew this wee man. Not personally, but since I was a kid. His face just brought me right back there. Terribly sad news. God rest him. Feel very sorry for his family, I do know the outpouring of respect and admiration will be great locally. Another tweeted that Mr Laverty had previously owned a shop on the Andersonstown Road. Read more Gerry Adams and Kate Hoey most popular NI political figures on Twitter PSNI Detective Sergeant McIvor from the Collision Investigation Unit said: Officers attended the scene with colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, and Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. Sadly, the driver of the Renault Scenic died at the scene. He has been named as 74-year-old Robert Laverty from the Belfast area. "The driver of the Ford Fiesta, a man in his twenties, was taken to hospital for treatment to serious injuries, where he remains in a critical condition. Our investigation is underway and we are appealing to anyone who was travelling in the area at around this time, and who may have dash-cam footage or any information which could assist us with our inquiries, to contact the Collision Investigation Unit on 101, quoting reference number 266 of 283105/23. The Moira Road was closed following the crash, but has since re-opened. Police said they attended the scene of a collision involving a Glider. A woman has been taken to hospital following an incident involving a Glider in Belfast. Emergency crews attended the scene on Donegal Square West/Howard Street in the city centre at around 2.30pm on Wednesday. Eyewitnesses have reported seeing the injured person being treated at the scene before being taken to the Royal Victoria Hospital by ambulance. Its understood the casualty was on foot when the incident happened. The patients condition is not known. Police have appealed for information. "Officers attended the scene and a woman was taken to hospital by NI Ambulance Service following the collision with a Glider bus around 2.30pm, a spokesperson said. Anyone with any information or who witnessed the collision is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 1187 31/05/23. Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams has said the surest guarantee that unionists cultural identity will prosper and be protected in a united Ireland is if they co-operate. Mr Adams addressed delegates at an Irelands Future event in Queens University, Belfast, alongside Alliance MLA Nuala McAllister on Wednesday evening. Alliance had previously declined to participate in an event organised by Irelands Future a campaign group seeking a referendum on a new and united Ireland. He called on the Irish Government to establish a Citizens Assembly and agree a firm date for a border poll with London, as he insisted change is coming. He referred to the recent council election, in which the nationalist share of the vote overtook the unionist one for the first time. The recent local government election demonstrates that huge change is happening as we speak, and more change is on its way, Mr Adams said. "It is important that unionists are involved in shaping this. "Let it be very clear unionists have a place of right in the new Ireland. And we want them to be part of what we collectively create." The ex-Sinn Fein leader added: The unionist population and its political representatives working with the rest of us on this island is the surest guarantee that their cultural identity British and unionist will prosper and be protected in a new and independent Ireland. "The safeguards that are in the Good Friday Agreement with respect to identity, cultural and language rights will continue in a new Ireland. However he clarified that he is not suggesting that referendum should take place immediately. "But the Irish Government should seek a date now which allows for inclusive preparation to begin, Mr Adams said. "And that preparatory work should start now. Mr Adams also called on the DUP to take its place in Stormont and work with unionists, other parties and independents in the Assembly which he said is also part of working toward a new agreed Ireland. "But lets be clear we have our work cut out for us," he said. We know at this point that the British and Irish governments are against constitutional change and against the referendums. So, are the unionist parties. Mr Adams said the fact that the UK Government is a unionist government is among the many reasons for its opposition to constitutional change. He accused the Irish Government of being worried about a national realignment of politics in which the establishment parties will lose their dominance. He said the focus must now be on challenging both governments, with the demand for setting a date for a unity referendum. "We must also encourage the governments and the Irish Government in particular to prepare for the unity referendums and for a successful outcome, Mr Adams added. "The Irish Government has chosen at this time to reject any proposals including the establishment of a Citizens or series of Citizens' Assemblies to facilitate discussion and to plan for the future. "We must remind Dublin again and again and again that the Good Friday Agreement created a mechanism for constitutional change through referendums. It was overwhelmingly endorsed by the people in referendums north and south. "The Irish Government has a constitutional obligation, and it is also a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement to prepare for unity. "So, that means the Irish Government should establish a Citizens Assembly to begin the work of planning. Ms McAllisters participation in the event organised by Irelands Future came eight months after her party was criticised for rejecting an invitation to a previous conference in Dublin. Alliance was the only non-unionist party on the island not to have a representative at the 'Together We Can' event which took place in the 3Arena in September. A spokesperson for the party branded the gathering as a "rally to endorse a united Ireland" at the time and said it was "not an appropriate event for us to participate in". Artificial intelligence could lead to the extinction of humanity and the risks should be treated with the same urgency as nuclear war, dozens of experts have warned including the pioneers who developed it. Here, the PA news agency takes a look at the latest situation. What is AI? Artificial intelligence (AI) is the intelligence demonstrated by machines, as opposed to the natural intelligence displayed by both animals and humans. Examples of AI include face recognition software and digital voice assistants such as Apples Siri and Amazons Alexa. ChatGPT (Alamy/PA) How could AI lead to human extinction? AI could be weaponised, for example to develop new chemical weapons and enhance aerial combat, the San Francisco-based Centre for AI Safety says on its website. The centre released the statement about the risk of extinction from AI which was signed by the industry leaders. The centre lists other risks on its website, including AI potentially becoming dangerous if it is not aligned with human values. It also says humans could become dependent on machines if important tasks are increasingly delegated to them. And in the future AI could be deceptive, not out of malice, but because it could help agents achieve their goals. It may be more efficient to gain human approval through deception than to earn it legitimately. Who are the people saying AI could wipe out humanity? Dozens of experts have signed the letter, which was organised by the Centre for AI Safety, a non-profit which aims to reduce societal-scale risks from AI. Two of the three godfathers of AI have signed the letter Geoffrey Hinton, emeritus professor of computer science at the University of Toronto, and Yoshua Bengio, professor of computer science at the Universite de Montreal/Mila. Dr Hinton resigned from his job at Google earlier this month, saying that in the wrong hands, AI could be used to to harm people and spell the end of humanity. The signatories also include Sam Altman and Ilya Sutskever, the chief executive and co-founder respectively of ChatGPT developer OpenAI. The list also includes dozens of academics, senior bosses at companies such as Google DeepMind, the co-founder of Skype, and the founders of AI company Anthropic. Elon Musk has previously expressed concern (Brian Lawless/PA) Earlier this year more than 1,000 researchers and technologists, including Elon Musk, had signed a much longer letter calling for a six-month pause on AI development. What can be done to regulate it and stop these scenarios? The Centre for AI Safety says it reduces risks from AI through research, field-building, and advocacy. The AI research includes: identifying and removing dangerous behaviours; studying deceptive and unethical behaviour in it; training AI to behave morally; and improving its security and reliability. The centre says it also grows the AI safety research field through funding, research infrastructure, and educational resources. And it raises public awareness of AI risks and safety, provides technical expertise to inform policymaking and advises industry leaders on structures and practices to prioritise AI safety. What are countries doing? Prime Minister Rishi Sunak retweeted the Centre for AI Safetys statement on Wednesday and said the Government is looking very carefully at it. He said he raised it at the G7 summit and will discuss the topic again when he visits the US. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (Jordan Pettitt/PA) His tweet said: The government is looking very carefully at this. Last week I stressed to AI companies the importance of putting guardrails in place so development is safe and secure. But we need to work together. Thats why I raised it at the @G7 and will do so again when I visit the US. Last week Mr Sunak spoke about the importance of ensuring the right guard rails are in place to protect against potential dangers, ranging from disinformation and national security to existential threats. And this week Chinas ruling Communist Party called for beefed-up national security measures, highlighting the risks posed by advances in AI. What are the benefits of AI? AI can perform life-saving tasks, such as algorithms analysing medical images including X-rays, scans and ultrasounds, helping doctors to identify and diagnose diseases such as cancer and heart conditions more accurately and quickly. One example of a benefit of AI is new brain technology which helped a man who was paralysed in a bicycle accident more than a decade ago to stand and walk again. Neuroscientists at the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland have created what they call a wireless digital bridge which is able to restore the connection lost between the brain and the spinal cord. This digital bridge is a brainspine interface which has allowed Gert-Jan Oskam to regain control over the movement of his legs, enabling him to stand, walk and even climb stairs. Ron DeSantis was making a four-stop blitz through Iowa during his first full day of presidential campaigning on Wednesday, aiming for a personal connection with voters while intensifying his criticism of former president Donald Trump. The Florida governors first stop was the floor of Port Neal Welding in Salix, a rural town near Sioux City, in the heart of the most Republican-heavy part of the state. Mr DeSantis talked up his efforts to push his state further to the right. Trying to position himself as the most formidable alternative to Donald Trump in the crowded Republican White House primary field, Mr DeSantis did not mention the former president by name in Salix. But he said the Bible emphasised the importance of being humble, adding that the country needed leaders who knew how to show humility. The tired dogmas of the past are inadequate for a vibrant future. We have to look forward, Mr DeSantis said. We cant look backwards. We must have the courage to lead and we must have the strength to win. He later sat with his wife, Casey, among hydraulic lifts and long welding tables. They just seem very down to earth, said Bev Lessman, 70, a retired teacher from Sioux City. After speaking, Mr DeSantis walked through the audience and Ms Lessman wrapped her arms around his neck and told the governor she could feel what seemed to her to be the governors Christian devotion. I told him we cant make others live it, but I appreciated how he expressed his faith, she said later. He replied, But we can model it, she said. There was a connection, she added. Mr DeSantis has subsequent appearances on Wednesday in Council Bluffs, Pella and Cedar Rapids as he holds a string of early events in the state where caucuses kick off the Republican presidential primary voting. From there, he will head to New Hampshire on Thursday and South Carolina on Friday two other states that vote early on the GOP primary calendar. Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis talks with his wife Casey, left, during a campaign event in Salix, Iowa (Charlie Neibergall/AP/PA) After months of speculation, Mr DeSantis launched his campaign with a glitch-filled online kickoff last week and held his first official Iowa event on Tuesday night before an energetic crowd of roughly 500 in a suburban Des Moines church. He did not mention Mr Trump during his remarks, but speaking to reporters afterwards, he pushed back against the former president. Mr DeSantis accused Mr Trump of essentially abandoning America First principles on immigration, supporting coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns and generally having moved left on key issues. The governor is opening his campaign behind Mr Trump in the polls. Kate Romano, 60, of Indianola, Iowa, said she was more impressed by DeSantis than she expected during his Tuesday night appearance, calling him energetic and fun to hear. She said she voted reluctantly for Mr Trump in 2016 and 2020, and is interested in hearing from other candidates. I liked to hear that hell stand up to Trump, she said. Ron DeSantis addresses a campaign event at Port Neal Welding in Salix, Iowa (Charlie Neibergall/AP/PA) Kim Riesberg, 59, said she, too, voted twice for Mr Trump but is not necessarily committed to him this time. Mr Trump and his allies have unleashed a fresh round of anti-DeSantis attacks, sharing new polls finding the former president is the heavy favourite in the GOP race and taking aim at Mr DeSantiss leadership during the pandemic. Mr Trump, who was already scheduled to be in Iowa on Thursday, added stops in the state to his schedule for Wednesday, ensuring he would overlap with Mr DeSantis for a time. Mr Trump will tape a radio appearance in Des Moines before attending a GOP legislative dinner. U.S. Special Representative on North Korea Sung Kim, South Korea's special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security affairs Kim Gunn and Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director General for Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau Funakoshi Takehiro meet at the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia, Dec. 13, 2022. Reuters-Yonhap The top nuclear envoys of South Korea, the United States and Japan on Wednesday "strongly condemned" North Korea's launch of what it claimed to be a "space launch vehicle," Seoul's foreign ministry said. Seoul's chief nuclear negotiator, Kim Gunn, and his U.S. and Japanese counterparts, Sung Kim and Takehiro Funakoshi, delivered the joint message in a conference call after Pyongyang announced that it launched a rocket carrying a military reconnaissance satellite earlier in the day. Allison Morris reports as men are charged with attempting to murder senior cop Seven men have been remanded in custody after being charged with the attempted murder of a senior PSNI officer in Omagh. PSNI Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell is still recovering after being shot multiple times. A court has heard that the gang alleged to have tried to kill him involved both dissident republicans and non-paramilitary linked criminals. DCI Caldwell had investigated both. Ciaran Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph security correspondent Allison Morris to discuss the latest on the high profile case. Bangladesh Nobel Peace Prize winner and microcredit pioneer Muhammad Yunus gestures as he delivers a lecture at Italys Chamber of Deputies, in Rome, July 10, 2014. Bangladeshs High Court on Wednesday ordered Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus to pay 120 million taka (U.S. $1.2 million) in taxes for charitable donations, in what some say are part of dozens of politically motivated cases against him by the Sheikh Hasina government. The courts decision came a day after the countrys anti-graft watchdog sued him for the alleged embezzlement of more than $2 million from the employees welfare fund of Grameen Telecom, a company that the 82-year-old economist founded and chairs. The High Court rejected petitions filed by Yunus against being taxed for the donations to three charitable trusts, saying the tax imposition on gifts was justified and he was not entitled to an exemption. [Y]unus will have to pay this money, as the High Court turned down his three petitions seeking tax exemption on $7.16 million (767.3 million taka) that he gifted to three trusts in the assessment years between 2011 and 2014, Attorney General A.M. Amin Uddin told reporters, explaining the decision. He tried to evade taxes. Yunus lawyer Mustafizur Rahman Khan said he and his client would decide on an appeal after receiving and reading the full judgment of the court. These developments come about nine months after 40 global figures urged the Bangladesh government to stop harassing Yunus. The 2006 Nobel Peace Prize winner is known worldwide for pioneering microcredit as a method of lifting millions out of poverty through his Grameen Bank. In an open letter, these global figures, who included former United States top diplomat Hillary Rodham Clinton and rock star Bono, said they hoped Bangladesh would allow Yunus to focus his energy on doing humanitarian work rather than on defending himself. Yunus currently faces at least 30 income tax and labor-related cases, another of his lawyers, Abdullah Al Mamun, told BenarNews, adding that the number used to be more than 100 until a settlement five years ago. We do not have the account of all the cases as some workers of his [Yunus] organization filed cases separately. But we can say this much that at present we are dealing with at least 30 cases including writ petitions on various issues, he said. It is shameful On Wednesday, Badiul Alam Majumdar, country director of The Hunger Project, an international volunteer organization said Yunus was a victim of political vendetta. We should use Yunus worldwide fame. But we are not doing that, rather we are insulting him, it is shameful, he told BenarNews.Prime Minister Hasinas government has not hidden its hostility toward Yunus. The Bangladesh leader and her Awami League believe that Yunus pressured the World Bank to block funding for the ambitious Padma Bridge project because he was furious at being dismissed as head of Grameen Bank in 2011. Yunus has denied any involvement in the World Banks decision. Meanwhile, opponents have noted that the administration has increasingly and brazenly targeted Hasinas critics and journalists, using state machinery and oppressive laws. The issue has come to the attention of other democracies and human rights groups as well. Last week, the United States announced it would deny visas to Bangladeshis whom it believes undermine democratic elections in the South Asian nation. The policy was intended to send a message to the citizens of Bangladesh that Washington was closely watching the run-up to the upcoming national polls, the U.S. State Department said. The Biden administration announced the new policy after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concern to Dhaka last month about threats and physical attacks against members of the Bangladeshi media, including under a draconian digital law, ahead of the next general election, which is due in December or January. The Payra thermal plant, seen in this file photo, produces electricity in the Patuakhali district in Bangladesh. Bangladeshs largest power plant, which China built and which opened a year ago, is expected to go offline in early June because it will run out of coal as the South Asian nation faces blackouts linked to a heat wave, officials said. They said the government owes hundreds of millions of dollars to the China National Machinery Import and Export Co. (CMC), which has refused to supply coal to the joint venture that owns the Payra thermal plant, unless the government pays off that outstanding debt. To much fanfare in March 2022, the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the 1,320-megawatt plant, which cost about U.S. $2 billion to build and was hailed as designed to power the entire country. One unit of the Payra power plant has already ceased operation because of the coal shortage. The other unit will close beginning June 2 when the coal supplies run out, Shamim Hasan, director of the public relations wing at the Bangladesh Power Development Board, told BenarNews. The ongoing dollar crisis has caused the coal shortage. Bangladesh Bank [the central bank] is not supplying dollars. The company asked for U.S. $400 million in outstanding payments. Without this payment, the supplier CMC will not provide coal, he said. Bangladesh relies mainly on China and India for its coal imports. The southcentral Barishal division and the southwestern division of Khulna will experience acute power shortages after total closure of the Payra power plant, Hasan said, adding the government must pay the company an investment charge even if the power plant sits idle. He did not provide the investment charge rate. Hasan said another 1,320-megawatt coal-fired power plant, Rampal, had ceased production because of the coal shortage. After receiving a shipment, it is supplying 400 megawatts of electricity. The Payra power plant is one of many projects that Chinese companies are building in Bangladesh as part of the Belt and Road Initiative, Beijings ambitious plan to build roads, bridges, ports and other infrastructure across the globe, according to a report by the state-run Xinhua news agency. Hasan said the nations power plants have been able to generate 13,000 megawatts. Owing to the ongoing heat wave, the power demand crossed 14,000 megawatts on Tuesday. The demand is likely to escalate to 15,000 megawatts if the heat wave continues, he said. Therefore, we see power outages across the country. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department said the ongoing heat wave was likely to continue for the next four to five days. With the rise in temperature, the demand for electricity for cooling such as running fans and air conditioners increases, forcing the authorities to go for power cuts, Ijaz Hossain, an energy expert and professor at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), told BenarNews. We knew that Bangladesh is going to face a crisis in the energy sector. We alerted the government about it. But proper actions were not taken, he said, blaming a wrong policy. The government has invited the private sectors to invest in the power sector to enhance the countrys production capacity, expecting higher economic growth. The private sectors have set up power plants and get money from the government no matter whether they produce electricity or not, he said. Commuters make their way along a street in Dhaka during a power blackout, Oct. 4, 2022. [Munir Uz Zaman/AFP] Those efforts mean Bangladesh has 153 power-generating plants, according to the Power Development Board. The public and private sectors each contribute 42% of electricity production while the rest is created by foreign companies and through imports. All told, Bangladesh could produce 24,143 megawatts of power each day, but Hossain said not all plants are operational because of the lack of demand. We have ensured 100% electricity coverage. Look at the pattern of electricity usage: 50% demand comes from the households. If we cannot increase the demands from the industrial sectors, we cannot create big demands, he said. Mohammad Hossain, director general of the governments power cell, blamed the outages on currency issues along with higher liquefied natural gas prices caused by Russias invasion of Ukraine. The prices of coal and LNG in the international market have gone up several times. We have to think twice before purchasing LNG and coal at increased rates, he told BenarNews. We are facing the problems like a family with needs: When we manage one sector, we see problems in another sector. Hopefully, the situation will be over soon, he said. Soldiers stand in formation during a ceremony marking the 77th anniversary of the Indonesian Armed Forces in Banda Aceh on October 5, 2022. A proposal to establish a regional command for the army in each of Indonesias 38 provinces has sparked an outcry from human rights and security experts, who fear it could herald the return of the militarys dominance over civilian affairs that ended with the fall of autocratic President Suharto in 1998. The plan comes amid efforts by the military to revise a 2004 law that regulates its role and function, seeking to expand its involvement in government agencies and other non-military domains. Indonesian Army Chief of Staff Gen. Dudung Abdurachman said in May the military wanted to establish 23 new regional commands, known as Kodam, to improve the armys readiness and responsiveness in case of emergencies or threats. The plan has the backing of Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto and Armed Forces Chief Adm. Yudo Margono, he said. But the twin proposals have come under fire by human rights groups, who are wary of the militarys history of violent suppression across the archipelago. The Setara Institute, a human rights watchdog, said the plan would blur the line between military and civilian roles and reverse progress made by the reform movement that ousted Suharto. During Suhartos 32-year rule, the military had a prominent role in politics and society, with officers appointed to civilian posts at various levels of government, enabling the New Order regime to take an iron-firsted approach against dissent. The idea of adding regional commands and revising the TNI law reeks of expanding the militarys role in the civilian sphere, said Ikhsan Yosarie, a researcher at Setara, referring to the Indonesian National Armed Forces by their acronym. Reform should push the TNI to focus on defense capabilities, not regress to the New Order era. Indonesian women look at exhibits at the Suharto museum in Yogyakarta, March 29, 2014. [Reuters] The initiative to revise Law No. 34 of 2004 was intended to accommodate a larger role for the military in state affairs and enhance its professionalism, Army spokesman Brig. Gen. Hamim Tohari said. The proposal seeks to amend 15 articles in the law, including allowing active-duty officers to hold more civilian posts, diluting the authority of the president over the armed forces and increasing the types of missions the military can carry out. If passed, the law would expand military operations beyond defensive roles to supporting local governments, helping the police maintain security and public order, and assisting with disaster management, counterterrorism, border control and maritime security. Threats and challenges are becoming more complex. The army must adapt to these dynamics, Tohari told BenarNews. But Al Araf, a security expert and director of think tank the Centra Initiative, said these changes were unnecessary and dangerous for democracy. He argued that using soldiers as a security tool like police officers was wrong because they were trained for war. Putting military functions as a state security tool is wrong and dangerous for democracy because the military can be used to deal with people if they are considered state security threats, he said. An illiberal turn? Some analysts have said that President Joko Widodo, who is popularly known as Jokowi, has overseen a period of democratic regression and increasing illiberalism since he took office in 2014. One sign is the influence of former military officers from Suhartos era in his administration, they said. Natalie Sambhi, an expert on Indonesian security affairs at the Brookings Institution in Washington D.C., wrote in a 2021 report that Jokowi has appointed several retired generals to key positions in his cabinet, relied on the armys territorial system for development projects and allowed former officers to shape public discourse and policy. While the militarys influence is not new, Jokowis lack of familiarity not just with security affairs but his lack of background from the political and military elite has necessitated the active courting of relationships with power brokers in the armed forces, she wrote. Jokowis lack of ideological commitment to democracy or liberalism has made him comfortable with delegating security matters to trusted military figures who have shown little respect for human rights and civil liberties, she added. The report said that Jokowis response to the COVID-19 pandemic had intensified the militarys de facto dual function of playing both security and political roles. Suharto used his control over the military to suppress dissent and secure his re-election every five years. Though governments afterwards have reduced the militarys role in politics and society, it still wields considerable influence and prestige. President Joko Widodo (front R) inspects troops during a ceremony marking the 74th anniversary of the Indonesian military at Halim air force base in Jakarta on October 5, 2019. [AFP] The plan to create new garrisons follows the establishment of four new provinces in the restive Papua region last year. The government said the move would boost development and public services in the region, which has long lagged behind other parts of Indonesia. But some Papuans and human rights activists have expressed concerns that the new provinces would dilute the political representation and cultural identity of indigenous Papuans. They also fear that the increased military presence would lead to more violence and human rights violations in a region that has witnessed decades of conflict between separatist rebels and security forces. Tubagus Hasanuddin, a member of the House of Representatives defense commission, said there was no need to add new regional commands or expand their tasks. Hasanuddin, who is from Jokowis ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), said that using threats as a pretext for such moves was illogical. It has no urgency, he said. What is needed is improving and modernizing weaponry. The plan has also been criticized by former President Megawati Sukarnoputri, who chairs the PDIP. The Dynamic Support Vessel Fire Opal, seen here in this Philippine Coast Guard photo, has started operations to remove the remaining oil from the MT Princess Empress in waters off Oriental Mindoro province, May 29, 2023. In the final phase of a massive environmental clean-up, the Philippine Coast Guard announced Wednesday that efforts were under way to siphon remaining oil from the cargo hold of a sunken tanker in waters off Oriental Mindoro province. The MT Princess Empress, operated by Philippines-based RDC Reield Marine Services, sank in rough seas on Feb. 28 while carrying about 800,000 liters of industrial fuel oil. All 20 crew members were rescued and the tanker was located weeks later at a depth of 400 meters (1,312 feet) off the coastal town of Naujan. The spill led to the contamination of vast coastal regions in the central Philippines. It forced officials to impose a fishing ban in seven coastal towns, and affected nearly 200,000 people as well as threatened rich marine life in the southern Luzon and western Visayas regions. Coast Guard spokesman Rear Adm. Armand Balilo said the tankers insurer hired the Dynamic Support Vessel Fire Opal to remove an estimated 120,000 to 240,000 liters (31,700 to 63,400 gallons) of oil believed to be inside the tankers cargo hold. The ship arrived on site late last week, and the removal could take weeks. But it will depend on the weather as well as how fast they work, Balilo said in an interview with DZBB radio. Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla, who oversees coast guard operations on the ground, said the siphoning of the remaining oil could take 20 to 30 days. Once oil removal is completed, we hope that the process will pave the way for the rehabilitation of affected areas and finally transition to the normalcy of lives of affected Mindorenos, Tuvilla said, referring to residents of Oriental Mindoro province. In Manila, an MT Princess Empress official said the tanker was newly constructed. We sincerely apologize to the communities, the local and national governments, and the agencies. Elements beyond human control such as sudden weather disturbance in the area resulted in this unfortunate event, said Fritzie Tee, vice president of the RDC Reield Marine Services. The company, according to Tee, is working with the Philippine government, international oil spill experts and responders to minimize the impact. Meanwhile, Filipino fishers group Pamalakaya called for the company to be made to pay for the ecological damage. The worst oil spill in the country occurred in August 2006 when the oil tanker M/T Solar 1, which was hired by the Petron Corp., sank off the coast of Guimaras, an island province in the Philippines, spilling more than 2.1 million liters (about 555,000 gallons) of bunker fuel. The spill was not only devastating for the environment but also for the people and the economy of Guimaras. In early March, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed government agencies to help fishermen affected by the MT Princess Empress spill. It took four months to clean up the Guimaras oil spill. Perhaps this time, since the amount of oil is smaller, the cleanup would be faster, Marcos told reporters at the time. Maybe not as quickly as one month, but I think we wont let it reach four months. Mark Navales and Dennis Jay Santos in Davao city, Philippines, contributed to this report. Protesters raise placards in a rally for press freedom in Quezon City, Philippines, February 15, 2019. Radio journalist Cris Bundoquin was shot dead in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, on Wednesday. Gunmen shot dead a Philippine radio broadcaster on Wednesday, police said, the latest killing of a journalist in one of the worlds most dangerous countries for reporters. Cris Bundoquin, 50, was killed in a dawn attack by two motorcycle-riding gunmen while opening a community store he owned in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, a province south of the main island of Luzon, police said. One of the attackers was killed after the victims son, who witnessed the shooting, rammed the mens motorcycle with his vehicle, police said. The remaining suspect escaped. Police have established a special taskforce to handle the investigation and were trying to determine a motive for the attack, said National Police Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. We are maximizing our efforts to get more pieces of evidence and testimonies in order to shed light on this incident and facilitate the immediate arrest of the perpetrators, Acorda told reporters in Manila. The Southeast Asian nation is one of the worlds ten deadliest countries for journalists, with several killed on average each year for their work, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Bundoquina, a journalist with DWXR 101.7 Kalahi FM, was the first Filipino journalist to be gunned down this year, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) said. But he is the third to be killed since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. came to power in June 2022. Radio journalist Percival Mabasa, who was known on-air as Percy Lapid, was gunned down in October last year in Manila, and radio broadcaster Rey Blanco was stabbed to death in central Negros Oriental in September. Col. Redrico Maranan, a national police spokesman who also heads a task force looking into attacks on the media, said the police would contact Bundoquins family and colleagues to piece together a plausible motive for the attack. While his work as a media representative involves discussion of critical issues, we cannot fully conclude as of this time that the motive is work-related, but we are exploring all possible angles as of this time, he said. We assure our media colleagues that the PNP prioritizes the security of those working in the media industry. Since 1986, there have been 198 journalists killed in the Philippines, based on the data and monitoring from the NUJP. The Philippines is ranked 147th out of 180 countries in RSFs 2022 World Press Freedom Index. In 2009, members of a powerful political clan and their associates killed 58 people, including 32 journalists, in an execution-style attack in southern Maguindanao province. Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa, the chief executive and co-founder of online news publication Rappler, could face years in prison if her appeal for a defamation conviction fails. President Marcos has vowed to protect press freedom, though he often shied away from journalists with probing questions during his presidential campaign. He has continued to ignore requests to sit down with members of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines and the Committee to Protect Journalists. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. Nuclear Safety and Security Commission Chairperson Yoo Guk-hee, front, speaks during a briefing on Korean experts' on-site inspection of the crippled Fukushima plant in Japan, at Government Complex Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul By Lee Hae-rin A Korean inspection team that visited Japan's crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant said Wednesday that they are focusing on evaluating how the facilities and systems to treat contaminated water can be managed stably for the next three decades and beyond. The experts from the team said meaningful progress was made during the inspection, but added that additional analysis and more data are needed for an accurate conclusion regarding Tokyo's plan to discharge the contaminated water into the Pacific Ocean. The 21-member inspection team, headed by Nuclear Safety and Security Commission Chairperson Yoo Guk-hee, announced its findings from a six-day inspection last week of Japan's water discharge plans, aimed at assessing whether the contaminated water is treated safely enough to be discharged into the sea starting this summer. "This inspection has achieved meaningful progress in its scientific and technological review through the on-site inspections and the acquisition of more detailed data," Yoo said during a press briefing in Seoul. According to Yoo, the inspection team confirmed that the major equipment in the plant's Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS), such as the emergency isolation valves designed to stop the discharge of contaminated water in case of an abnormality was "installed in accordance with the plan." But he said additional analysis is required to evaluate whether the facilities are appropriate to manage the system for a longer period of time. "We focused on whether the ALPS is fully capable of removing radioactive substances and can be managed stably for a long time," Yoon said. Considering Japan's plan to release the water for the next 30 years, he said, "We do not rule out the possibility that the release will take more than 30 years, and we'll also review that." The Fukushima plant, whose cooling systems were damaged by a massive earthquake and tsunami in March 2011, now stores over 1.3 million tons of water in its ALPS and plans to release radioactive water that it claims to be treated starting this summer. The delegation faced criticism from opposition parties and the public regarding the effectiveness of the inspection, because it was not allowed to collect samples of the contaminated water and merely received information provided by the Japanese authorities. Yoo and the team's experts who attended the briefing refused to comment on alternative management possibilities for the radioactive water, such as storing it in Japan's territory for a longer period, considering that the future environmental effects of the controversial water discharge are yet unknown. The timeline to announce the government's conclusion concerning the inspection is yet to be determined. The inspection team's report immediately triggered criticism for lacking concrete conclusions. Rep. Park Kwang-on, the floor leader of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), denounced the inspection team's claim of "meaningful progress" as an attempt to deceive the public. Park said in a statement released later in the day that he plans to hold a public hearing on the inspection team with related committees to cross-examine and verify its inspection results and set up a taskforce to file a lawsuit with the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea so as to stop Fukushima's discharge of contaminated water into the ocean. According to the Korea Federation for Environmental Movements survey announced last Thursday, 85.7 percent of Koreans disagree with Japan's plan to discharge contaminated water while 79 percent don't trust the Japanese government's claim regarding the treatment of the radioactive water and environmental hazards before release. Business writer Tony Dobrowolski's main focus is on business reporting. He came to The Eagle in 1992 after previously working for newspapers in Connecticut and Montreal. He can be reached at tdobrowolski@berkshireeagle.com or 413-496-6224. Community News Editor / Librarian Jeannie Maschino is community news editor and librarian for The Berkshire Eagle. She has worked for the newspaper in various capacities since 1982 and joined the newsroom in 1989. LEE The final design for a PCB landfill facility is expected to take another year to finalize, and 13 years to remove tainted sediment and deposit 1.3 million cubic yards of lower-level waste in the structure. That was the Environmental Protection Agencys latest timeline for the Rest of River cleanup plan for the Housatonic River south of Pittsfield, which includes a contentious plan for a dump in Lee designed to contain some of the the contaminated soil dredged from the river. The presentation came during last weeks meeting of the EPA Housatonic River Citizens Coordinating Council at the Lee Library. The council, an advisory panel of representatives of local towns and agencies with interests in the cleanup effort, meets quarterly with representatives of General Electric, the state Department of Environmental Protection, and the EPA to discuss the complicated process of evaluating the watershed and its needs, while advising local stakeholders about the status of the various elements of the project. During the meeting, the EPA officials also cited three primary health risks to humans associated with the PCB contamination of the Housatonic River both to alert users of the river to the risks and as a reminder that the cleanup effort is still pressing: The consumption of fish or birds caught in that stretch of river, because the fish have consumed tainted materials and are living in a contaminated habitat; Birds may have consumed contaminated fish or other foods; Exposure to the contaminated soils for an extended period of time. For years, GE dumped PCBs polychlorinated biphenyls into the Housatonic River from its Pittsfield facility. In 2016, the EPA issued a Rest of River cleanup plan requiring GE to ship all PCB waste removed from the river out of state, a plan the Rest of River Committee supported. But GE appealed the plan to the EPAs Environmental Appeals Board, which vacated the agreement, leading to the plan for the Lee landfill. Under the terms of a cleanup order, GE will remove and ship out of state 140,000 tons of PCB contaminated dry mud and move the remaining 2 million tons of contaminated mud with lower PCB concentrations to the Lee dump. The landfill would cover 13.2 acres near Woods Pond, while the plan calls for a structure that is 20 acres maximum. The peak elevation will be 1,096 feet, 3 feet short of the maximum permitted elevation. The base of the landfill is 20 feet above the level of the groundwater 5 feet more than was required. The final design of the structure is slated for late 2023 or early 2024. GE will be responsible for inspection and maintenance of any dams in the affected area that GE does not own. Some or all of these plans could change, depending on the outcome of a federal court hearing in Boston set for June 6 to hear challenges from the Housatonic River Initiative and the Housatonic Environmental Action League to the GE work permit issued by the EPA, including the landfill. A short discussion also was held about the possibility of contracting with a company that treats contaminated soil chemically to remove contaminants and return the cleaned soil to the river. The Rest of River plan allows for a contest to test such firms ability to cleanse the soil, but the competition may not be finished by the time the soil removal has already begun. EPA officials have said that they have been contacted by a few firms interested in contracting to do that work. One EPA official noted that extreme heat is one way to remove contaminants, but that process also removes all organic material, leaving a soil the consistency of sand, with little intrinsic value to regrow vegetation. Other tasks underway include final preparations for a fence to be erected around the site in June. Other data collection also is ongoing, including information that could affect the next stage of the design. Officials noted that the next phase will include public input. Another effort will study the risk to wildlife including mink, otter, osprey and amphibians. Meanwhile the off-site and on-site transportation and disposal plan is being assembled. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman speaks May 16 before a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology and the Law hearing on artificial intelligence on Capitol Hill in Washington. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close President Yoon Suk Yeol, right, shakes hands with former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga at the presidential office in Seoul, Wednesday. Courtesy of presidential office President Yoon Suk Yeol met with former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Wednesday and discussed the recent improvement in the bilateral relationship, his office said. Suga was visiting Seoul in his capacity as the new chief of the Japan-Korea Parliamentarians' Union following an invitation from Yoon during their previous meeting in Tokyo in March. "The president said a complete restoration of the bilateral relationship was achieved through the three South Korea-Japan summits in the past two months," presidential spokesperson Lee Do-woon said in a written briefing, referring to Yoon's meetings with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Yoon called for jointly responding to the international community's diverse agenda as the two countries sharing values and interests give shape to their security, economic and technological cooperation. "In particular, he called for working together to ensure the peoples of the two nations feel the benefits of the improvement in the South Korea-Japan relationship through actual implementation, not simply declarations or words," Lee said. Yoon also asked Suga to play a central role in reviving exchanges and communication between the two countries' lawmakers, given the important role the parliamentarians' union plays in shaping public opinion in Japan regarding South Korea-Japan relations. Suga responded that the change in the bilateral relationship over the past year would not have been possible without Yoon's strong leadership and determination. He also promised to continue to work through the union to ensure the achievements in resolving bilateral disputes spread to other areas as well, Lee said. Suga further noted the growing importance of security cooperation between South Korea and Japan, as well as trilaterally with the United States, demonstrated earlier Wednesday in North Korea's ballistic missile launch carried out under the pretext of a satellite launch. In response, Yoon said he hopes the three countries will take bold steps with the support of the South Korean and Japanese people and the commitment of their politicians to contribute to world peace and prosperity through trilateral security and economic cooperation, according to Lee. Earlier in the day, Yoon also met with Linda Mills, president-designate of New York University (NYU), and discussed ways to establish a new digital order through joint efforts by relevant institutions such as NYU and the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology. (Yonhap) Tonight's rundown: Talking Points Memo: Joe Biden continues to decline with the world watching and remains out of the press reach Presidential Historian Larry Cook weighs in on how Bidens relationship with the press compares to past presidents US Special Forces have been confirmed to be in Ukraine OReilly describes Democrats hosting the DNC in Chicago as Crazy Arrogant The trial of Fox News gets underway 58% of Americans are now living paycheck to paycheck even as inflation begins to cool off Smart Life: Utilizing Kelly Blue Book when searching for a new car This Day in History: FDR dies in office Final Thought: what to do when someone is disrespectful to you In Case You Missed It: Read Bill's latest column, "Reason to Believe" Join 'Team Normal!' Order your gear now at BillOReilly.com! Pre-order Bills next bestseller Killing the Witches NOW Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The National Medical Devices Policy, 2023 that got the approval of the government on April 26 seems to have made the medical devices sector happy. The slew of strategies mentioned in the policy assures a winwin outcome for the manufacturers as well as patients. Experts are upbeat about the projected growth of the sector in the near future. The policy aims to bring a range of interventions in a coherent manner that would facilitate focussed and efficient support and facilitation for the sector by the respective agencies. Let's explore further. The medical devices sector was nothing short of thanking the government for the recently announced approved policy National Medical Devices (NMD) Policy, 2023 by the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The policy is expected to help the medical devices sector to grow from present $11 billion to $50 billion in next five years. It is being touted by experts in the medical devices sector as a positive step where the industry is likely to become Atmanirbhar which will help to make affordable high quality and safe medical devices accessible to the world. This Policy will be in addition to the existing Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes that are underway. Notably, till the recent 2023 Budget, the sector wasn't all too pleased with the governments position, as nothing substantial was announced for the sector. The sector had been seeking reforms since the past few years and ultimately it can now heave a sigh of relief. Key focus areas The current policy aims to put in place a comprehensive set of focus areas for the growth of the sector in a coordinated manner. The policy aims to bring a range of interventions in a coherent manner that would facilitate focussed and efficient support and facilitation for the sector by the respective agencies. The National Medical Devices Policy, 2023 is expected to facilitate an orderly growth of the medical device sector to meet the public health objectives of access, affordability, quality and innovation. This sector is expected to realise its full potential, with the strategies, including, building an enabling ecosystem for manufacturing along with a focus on innovation, creating a robust and streamlined regulatory framework, providing support in training and capacity building programmes and promoting higher education to foster talent and skilled resources in line with the industry requirements. Encouraging domestic investments and production of medical devices complements the Governments Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India programmes. Ebullient industry Experts are content with the new policy announced with many mentioning that the move will unleash the sector's full potential, facilitating the development of patient-centric solutions to meet evolving healthcare needs and making India a global leader in the manufacturing and innovation of medical devices. Veena Kohli, CEO, Vanguard, who previously served as the President of the Association of Diagnostics Manufacturers of India (ADMI), had the opportunity to submit recommendations regarding the challenges and growth opportunities for the Indian IVD industry to the concerned Parliamentary Standing Committees. She mentioned, It is very encouraging to see that several of our inputs have been included and addressed in the recently released National Medical Devices Policy, 2023. The Indian IVD industry today, is at a point of inflection from where it could be catapulted to the next orbit of growth, quite like the IT industry of India post the year 2000 and the pharma industry after the global acceptance of generic formulations, in 1985. The policy encompasses all the necessary components to achieve Vision @2047. The policys focus on catalysing R&D and innovation will be pivotal to the growth of the sector and will help change these dynamics. Going forward, Rajiv Nath, Forum Coordinator, Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD), who has been critical of the governments initiatives for the sector hopes for the speedy implementation of the policy. He stated, The Parliamentary Committee had recommended a separate law, separate department, tariff correction and price control and other measures which, if implemented, will give direct benefit to consumer and industry. If the government acts like a doctor, the patient will not remain in the ICU but will step out healthy and laugh from the ward itself." Nath, however, raised the concern that consumers should reap the benefit from the policy. He goes on to add, So far there is no restriction or capping on the MRP prices of medical devices from the government. Especially some private hospitals give the brand they want to the consumer of their own free will. Some hospitals are less concerned about the affordability needs of the patients and more concerned about their profit. They consume high MRP goods instead of low-cost options. Because of this, the manufacturer or importer in India is tied up in a system of market operating with artificially inflated MRP labelled on the device. We have been seeking a system whereby ethical manufacturers and importers can offer low-priced MRP products and still, they can sell. We have been seeking MRP of imports to be monitored and compared with imports landed prices and steps taken to control when found irrationally excessive. The newly laid policy will catalyse India's emergence as a global hub for medical device manufacturing and innovation. This, according to Dr Sanjeev Relan, Chairman, Preventive Wear Manufacturers Association of India (PWMAI), will present a remarkable opportunity for collaboration between industry stakeholders, government bodies and healthcare professionals to collectively shape a future where advanced medical technologies are accessible, affordable, and seamlessly integrated into the healthcare ecosystem. Sharing his views, Jatin Mahajan, Secretary, Association of Diagnostic Manufacturers of India (ADMI) and MD, J Mitra & Company said, The policy has several existing concerns. The most significant is the need for explicit provisions for training healthcare professionals and the end-users of these medical devices. This could result in mismanagement and incorrect usage, leading to potential health hazards, especially in rural and semi-urban regions with relatively low awareness and technical expertise. While stressing local manufacturing, the policy needs to provide a clear roadmap for technology transfer from global manufacturers. This lack of access to advanced technologies may hinder the production of high-end medical devices. Though we still have to go through the fine print, we are encouraged by the spotlight turned on R&D. While India has only 1.5 per cent of the global medical device market, it has an 8 per cent share of the MedTech R&D workforce already. This is a fertile and proven area to focus on, said Pavan Choudary, Chairman, Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI). While praising the much-awaited policy Sachidanand Upadhyay, MD and CEO, Lords Mark Industries said, The Indian government's approval of the National Medical Devices Policy, 2023 is a significant move towards the growth and self-sufficiency of the country's medical devices sector. The policy is a comprehensive approach towards accelerating the growth of the medical devices sector in India. Expressing his thoughts Dr G S K Velu, CMD, Trivitron & Joint Coordinator IVD (Diagnostic Vertical Group) AiMed opined, We do hope this gives the necessary impetus to reduce import dependency in the medical devices sector and make India a global medical device manufacturing destination. If implemented along with a preference for buying locally made products, I am sure the medical devices sector will grow like the pharmaceuticals industry in the next 10 to 15 years. In the same vein, Ganesh Sabat, CEO, Sahajanand Medical Technologies stated, The domestic industry is optimistic that together in a PPP mode, we would be able to create an ecosystem for the holistic growth of overall healthcare industry in India, make India self-sufficient and reduce import dependency to a large extent. We can expand both markets and exports, where one can hope to see exponential growth in the coming years to achieve Vision 2047." Aravind Viswanathan, CEO, Transasia Bio-Medicals pointed out that the policy will streamline the regulatory approval process for medical devices by introducing a single-window clearance system for indigenously manufactured designs and products. According to him, the move will also enhance the role of agencies such as Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in product manufacturing, processing, and even looking at its performance. He opined, The need of the hour is to fast track the implementation of this policy in order to achieve the mission of self-reliance and reducing our dependency on imports. The way forward In another recent development, the Department of Pharmaceuticals, government of India announced the scheme for Assistance to Medical Device Clusters for Common Facilities (AMD-CF). The scheme aims to strengthen medical device clusters by providing financial assistance and strengthening and/or establishing more testing laboratories for medical devices to improve quality and sustainable growth. For Common Infrastructure Facilities (CIF) for the Medical Device (MD) clusters, the limit of support will be 70 per cent of the approved project cost or Rs 20 crore, whichever is less, as per the approval of the Scheme Steering Committee (SSC). In the case of Himalayan States and States in the North East Region, the grant-in-aid would be Rs 20 crore per cluster or 90 per cent of the project cost of the CIF, whichever is less. While Medical Devices Parks, as planned clusters with shared common manufacturing and testing or warehousing and clearing facilities are being encouraged to help reduce the capital expenditure (CAPEX) of manufacturers, it is also important to strengthen the existing manufacturing natural clusters in different parts of the country. More so, Dr Manshukh Mandaviya, Union Health Minister, who was in Tokyo on May 16 to attract investments, while emphasising the crucial role of the medical devices sector in Indias healthcare industry, urged Japanese medical device manufacturers to take the advantage of the Make in India initiative. Dr Mandaviya also projected a four-fold growth in the medical devices sector by 2030, from its current size of $11 billion. He stressed that Indias industry could emerge as a global leader in medical device manufacturing and innovation over the next 25 years, in line with Indias G20 Presidency aims. The policy has been announced with much fanfare and experts in this field are excited about it. With the new policy in place, the Centre aims to reduce Indias import dependence to nearly 30 per cent in the next couple of years; and become one of the top five global manufacturing hubs. However, the time frame of implementation of the policy will determine when the benefits accrued by the medical device players can ultimately be passed onto the consumers. Sanjiv Das sanjiv.das@mmactiv.com With the National Medical Devices Policy 2023 receiving the government's approval, the medtech industry players are further getting encouraged to make India the global manufacturing hub for medical devices. One such player is Germany-headquartered Siemens Healthineers, which has recently inaugurated a new manufacturing facility for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines in Bengaluru. The company has also recently laid the foundation stone for its new campus in Bengaluru, which is a part of its Rs 1,300 crore investment plan up to 2025. In conversation with BioSpectrum, Dileep Mangsuli, Development Centre Head, Siemens Healthineers shares more details about the companys growth and hiring plans in the medtech sector. How is Siemens Healthineers driving the Make in India Medtech transformation with the new MRI facility and campus? I'm a big believer in creating India as an innovation and healthcare hub for the world. There are definitely challenges out there. While we have fantastic tertiary care hospitals in all large cities, if you go to villages, healthcare is still not accessible. And affordability is still a challenge for many people. Although the government has taken a lot of steps in terms of building insurance schemes as well as providing the ability to get the right healthcare possibilities, challenges still exist. India has more than 70,000 hospitals, and many of these hospitals still do not have all the equipment that is needed to rightly diagnose any disease. There's a need for bringing in technology to these hospitals. Another point is affordability, which is all about eliminating waste. Globally, the estimated numbers on healthcare waste in the US alone will be in the hundreds of billions of dollars through misdiagnosis and wrong treatments. If you consider global numbers, it will run into several trillion dollars. If that is eliminated, it will bring affordability. It also brings access to all the people and catches the disease early on, and that is what can change the world. Thats where several technologies can help in bringing up affordability, accessibility, and accuracy. With our new facility, the company will currently manufacture MAGNETOM Free.Star, a disruptively simple approach to high-quality MRI in India. The MAGNETOM Free.Star MRI, which is going to be a game changer for the country as well, is a 0.55 Tesla MRI, which is affordable from the cost perspective and accurate from the diagnosis perspective. And in terms of maintenance, it takes less than one litre of Helium. Typically, 1.5 tesla MRI requires 1000 litres of Helium. And this takes less than 1 litre. So, that is a big game changer. And this we will be making it in India. Then we have our C-arms, which are being made in India, and they are sold in 54 countries today. We are looking at expanding our manufacturing footprint also. We are already making computed tomography (CTs) in India for the local market as well as South Asian markets. We are going to be looking at more products in the coming years. We are building our new campus into a very large manufacturing site. Also, this will be our integrated site for manufacturing, Development Centre as well as our headquarters function. This will be the largest campus of Siemens Healthineers outside Germany. So, we are not only looking at Make in India for India, but we are looking at Make in India' for the world. With the new products being developed within India, for the world, are there specific disease areas or challenges being targeted, to improve the healthcare delivery in India? Our company came together with Varian, which is a cancer specialty company. We acquired Varian and today Varian and Siemens are one company. Varian is known for its ability to manage cancer from end to end from early detection, to therapy, to post-therapy management of patients. That is a strength that we find is very strong and very relevant for us. There are three diseases which are actually making the world today a challenging space- cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke. India is the capital of these diseases. About a year and a half back, we came together, about 70 leaders of the company, to talk about what should we be doing for managing these diseases. Two things that emerged were that we need to really look at these three diseases as a growth vector and try to address technologies around that. Secondly, we need to look at the healthcare access part. For example, not every hospital has a great radiologist. I know of one hospital in the northern belt of Karnataka where there is only one doctor who looks through a lot of patients. He can't see every scan. But with technology, a lot can change. But there are challenges such as skill set and funding which need to be addressed. Today, technology can be made available everywhere but the right skill that is required to interpret that technology is missing. The data that is shown by a lot of equipment or technology, needs someone to interpret it properly. Today, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not allow artificial intelligence (AI) to be used for interpretation. It can be used for verification, but you need to still interpret it. So, skill is a challenge. I think building skills is something that has to be of foremost importance for many of the companies to look at. We are focusing on that in a big way and also want to partner with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), in building this. Are you hiring more skill sets for the new facility and campus, especially the PhDs in the life sciences sector? We have several doctors working here, several radiologists, people working on software and digital technologies, and many others who have a PhD. They come from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). What we are looking at as a company is to make it into an innovation hub. It is not about what happens in those four walls of a building that we construct, but it is about what happens with the ecosystem around us, i.e. the academicians, large hospitals and startups. One thing that excites me about the ecosystem in India is that the hospitals are becoming even more open and more willing to work on research topics to co-create possible new workflows or a possible new way of treating cancer or a possible new way of identifying what is a better way of treating cancer. Yes, we are looking at growing the teams, bringing in technologists, and bringing in people who have a passion for healthcare. It is not only about technology, it's about passion for changing the world. That is what we are looking at. Dr Manbeena Chawla (manbeena.chawla@mmactiv.com) On the verge of completing five decades in the biotechnology industry, Mumbai-based HiMedia Laboratories was one of the prominent players during the global fight against COVID-19. After overcoming all the challenges brought about by the pandemic on the nation and on the industrys growth, the company is now set to venture out into new areas towards portfolio expansion and greater opportunities. During a detailed conversation with BioSpectrum, Dr Gangadhar M Warke, Founder, Chairman and Managing Director, HiMedia Laboratories talks about the companys growth plans and the future of the Indian biotechnology sector. In the last two decades, HiMedia has diversified into 7 business divisions that include Microbiology, Cell Biology, and Molecular Biology. What new plans are in store for the companys growth, and what are the revenue projections for FY 23-24? HiMedia ventured into the microbiology services and training sector this year. Our microbiology division has started providing a wide range of services: microbial identification by MALDI-TOF MS, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, quality testing of disinfectants, bacterial endotoxin testing, strain development and improvement, customised media development, etc. We provide training courses for microbial counts, pathogen detection, environmental sampling, water testing, bioburden tests, etc. We have set up our own Gamma irradiation facility to facilitate sterilisation in-house. For Microbiology, with respect to USFDA regulations, there was an acute need for production of Ready Prepared Media (RPM) plates & other liquid media. Our RPM product range is extensive and covers many applications. These products are manufactured in numbers of 1.5 lakh units per day in our state-of-the-art WHO-GMP compliant facilities. For the cell biology division, we are currently focusing on cutting-edge research and new product development for bioinks and bioscaffolds for 3D bioprinting; serum-free media for cultured meat, viral vaccine production platform, cell culture; biosimilars and monoclonal antibodies as anti-cancer therapy; multicompendial biochemicals; and automation. Our latest achievement has been the development of serum-free media for many applications and chemically defined serum- NuSeraTM for reducing the batch-to-batch variation and enabling consistency in the results. Our biosimilars project has been awarded a grant from both NBM-BIRAC (National Biopharma Mission- Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) and DBT-BIRAC in 2020 for development of serum-free, chemically defined media for monoclonal antibodies-mAbs (produced using CHO cell lines) and non-mAb protein therapeutic molecules. As a new initiative now, we provide Custom Testing Services for drug screening, cell line authentication, scaling up of cells, mycoplasma detection in cell lines, and bioproduction platform (spent media analysis, media development and media optimisation by scaling up). Alongside, we provide teaching and skill development modules for understanding regulatory affairs, in vitro culture, karyotyping, and cytogenetics. Our molecular biology division takes pride in becoming the One-Stop Shop for all the molecular biology products. Lately, we inaugurated an advanced sequencing and bioinformatics facility that provides services for Sequencing (Sanger and NGS for microbial identifications); Genotyping; Omics (Proteomics, Genomics, and Transcriptomics); and Bioinformatics. We have also developed indigenous solutions in complete forensics processes for humans and wildlife. This process involves novel IT software-based on Forensic Human Identification for the increasingly growing Forensics and Molecular Diagnostics Sector in India. We also have begun to provide teaching kits on the basic experiments of various life sciences fields. Revenue projections for FY 22-23 are around Rs 950 crore. Expected growth in new Fiscal year 23-24 is around 25 per cent taking our total revenue to Rs 1200 crore. We have also ventured into an ambitious agro-based project, which may boost the revenue further by approx. 60 per cent. Are you looking at new investments, facility expansions or partnerships to expand your business? As a rapidly diversifying biotech company, we are looking for new investments. As HiMedia has expertise in different aspects of biotechnology, we want to convert this expertise into our service provision segment. As mentioned prior, we have expanded our portfolio by launching various Advanced Services in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Cell Biology. Any diversification needs additional capex for facility build-up and investing in advanced instruments and biological resources. We have invested about 10 per cent of the FY-21-22 profit in these new segments such as probiotic innovation facility at Nagpur, genome sequencing service, Maldi-TOF Mass Spectrometry (MS) services for identification of microbes, 3D bioprinting and Liquid chromatographymass spectrometry (LCMS). We are also involved in partnering with academic or research institutions to develop new technologies or processes. Recently, we also got a tech transfer of diagnostic technology from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. We are expanding facilities to increase production capacity and improve efficiency. This involves building new facilities, upgrading existing ones, implementing automation or other technological advancements. We are setting up a C-GMP manufacturing facility at Nashik with the capacity of 20 tonnes per batch of cultured media. One of our recent projects revolves around drug repurposing to deal with genetic diseases like sickle cell anaemia. We are also venturing into pre-biotics, probiotics, and post-biotics for humans, livestock, and agricultural crops. We are also venturing into indigenous agar manufacture in collaboration with CSIR Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar. The Microbiology division had received BIRAC-Biotechnology Industry Partnership Programme (BIPP) grant for developing Bacterial hydrocolloid. What are your views on pushing the concept of 'Make in India' in the biotechnology sector? Since the inception of HiMedia in 1974, it has been practising 'Make in India' to build a strong substitute to the MNCs. We have been successful in many areas till now. 'Make in India' is a continuous process, and we are proud that we are part of this to make India stronger. As we know, India is among the top 12 destinations for biotechnology worldwide and 3rd largest destination for biotechnology in the Asia Pacific. In 2022, Indias Biotechnology industry crossed $80.12 billion, growing 14 per cent from the previous year. The Indian Bioeconomy has witnessed a many-fold increase in valuation in the past ten years; with COVID-19 giving the industry a much-needed push. For me, pushing the idea of 'Make in India' in biotechnology (encompassing Microbiology, Cell biology, Molecular biology and Plant tissue culture) field means making the Indian market a reliable source of various raw materials substituting foreign imports. What are the current challenges facing the biotechnology industry, and what is the way forward? The biotechnology industry faces several challenges, both technological and regulatory. European regulators upgrade their regulatory compliances every year and impose the same on all biosuppliers. These put challenges on biosuppliers and importers in India. Biotech companies often must navigate complex regulatory environments, especially when it comes to getting regulatory approval for their products. The regulatory process can be lengthy, expensive, and unpredictable. Moreover, biotech companies rely heavily on patents to protect their products and innovations. Biotech research and development can be extremely expensive, especially in areas like drug discovery and development. This makes it difficult for smaller companies to compete with larger companies that have more resources. To overcome these, biotech companies can either collaborate with each other or academic and research institutions; to share resources, knowledge, and expertise. This can help to reduce costs and accelerate the pace of innovation. For example, we have been collaborating with two German partners in our Indo-German [IGSTC 2+2] project. ICT-Mumbai is our Indian academic partner. Moreover, biotech companies should continue to invest in research and development to stay ahead of the curve. By embracing new technologies and exploring new areas of research, companies can stay competitive and create new opportunities for growth. In India, government funding agencies are supporting such innovation through significant funding apart from private funding. Biotech companies can diversify their portfolios to reduce risk and increase revenue streams. This can involve expanding into new markets or developing products in different therapeutic areas. Overall, the biotechnology industry faces several challenges. However, by adopting a collaborative, innovative, and progressive approach, companies can overcome these challenges and continue to drive growth and innovation in the field. If we consider the past financial year, pharma exports declined to some extent due to various reasons. This affected HiMedia as well. We foresee that it will improve this year. Dr Manbeena Chawla (manbeena.chawla@mmactiv.com) Government has introduced a number of programmes and initiatives to promote bioincubators India has been witnessing steady growth in the biotechnology sector, with the industry expected to reach $150 billion by 2025. India has a strong talent base, with many highly qualified scientists and engineers, particularly in the biotech and life sciences sector. Additionally, the nation is investing more in R&D and has a growing number of research institutes, both of which have fuelled innovation in the industry. Additionally, there is a growing demand for healthcare solutions in India, driven by a growing population and an increasing burden of disease. As a result, we have seen a significant increase in biotech and life sciences startups in India over the past few years, with many innovative companies emerging in areas such as healthcare diagnostics, drug discovery, and medical devices. These firms are harnessing technology and scientific innovation to address some of the most critical healthcare concerns confronting the country, and are positioned to make a huge impact in the years ahead. A brief history The journey of bioincubators in India has been quite progressive, with the government and private players working together to create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and growth. The first bioincubator in India, the Society for Innovation and Development (SID), was set up in 1986 at the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. Since then, several bioincubators have come up across the country, especially in the last decade. Bioincubators frequently provide access to a network of industry experts, investors, and possible partners together with physical facilities and support services. Young businesses can greatly improve their chances of success by overcoming the difficulties of introducing novel goods and services to the market with the aid of this ecosystem of support. The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Government of India are constantly working to grow the biotechnology industry in India. There are numerous Indian biotechnology parks and incubators presently, expanding the field of biotechnology and generating employment in the biotech industry. The primary objective of governmental or private bioincubators, also known as biotech incubators, is to promote emerging biotech startups in the bio-business. They support the expansion of biotech startups from a local to an international level. State governments also establish bioincubators for more growth of the biotech industry in their states. Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra have more bioincubators than other states in India. Pro-bioincubator policies In India, there were approximately 160 bioincubators and 1,800 businesses functioning in these incubators as of March 2021, according to a report by the National Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (NSTEDB). The research also notes that more than 800 firms have left these bioincubators after receiving a degree and have raised more than Rs 5,000 crore (about $675 million) in capital overall. The Indian government has introduced a number of programmes and initiatives to promote bioincubators in recognition of their significance in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. To assist biotech companies and SMEs, the DBT introduced the Biotechnology Industry Partnership Programme (BIPP) in 2016. A grant of up to Rs 50 lakh ($67,000) is made available to bioincubators under this programme for an 18-month term to support the incubation of biotech businesses. The Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) programme was also introduced by the government to finance early-stage biotech firms. The programme offers a grant of up to Rs 50 lakh ($67,000) for an 18-month term to assist in proof-of-concept studies, prototyping, and other technological development-related activities. The expansion of bioincubators in India has also been significantly aided by the private sector. To encourage innovation and entrepreneurship in the biotech industry, several powerful corporations, including Reliance, TATA, and Biocon, have established bioincubators. These bioincubators give businesses access to finance as well as mentorship, networking opportunities, and laboratory and office space. The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) in Bengaluru is one of India's renowned bioincubators. The life sciences industry has benefited greatly from C-CAMP's promotion of innovation since its establishment in 2009. Startups get access to top-notch laboratory resources, mentoring, and networking opportunities thanks to C-CAMP. Over 200 firms have received incubation from the bioincubator, which also assisted them in raising more than $100 million in funding. Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) Regional Centre for Technology Promotion (BRTC) is established at KIIT Technology Business Incubator (KIITTBI)- BioNEST in Bhubaneswar to nurture and promote biotech startups in the regions of East and Northeast states of India. Additionally, bioincubators have been effective at encouraging social entrepreneurship in the biotech industry. To encourage innovation in the life sciences industry, the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) in Hyderabad established the CCMB Social Entrepreneurship Programme (CSEP), a social entrepreneurship programme. Startups can get lab and office space, mentoring, and financial support through CSEP. Several firms, including those trying to offer accessible healthcare solutions and those promoting sustainable agriculture, have been incubated through the programme. Performance indicators The number of startups incubated, the number of jobs created, the amount of investment raised by the startups, and the success rate of the startups can all be used to gauge how well a bioincubator is performing. Over time, India's bioincubators have seen a considerable rise in the number of firms they are able to support. Incubated at various bioincubators across India as of 2021 are more than 200 biotech firms, according to BIRAC. Bioincubators in India have played a significant role in generating employment opportunities.There are two types of jobs generated by bioincubators in India: direct employment and indirect employment. Jobs created by incubated startups, such as those for scientists, engineers, technicians, and administrative personnel, are included in direct employment. Jobs created by the vendors, suppliers, and service providers who work with these startups are considered to be indirect employment. A study by the Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises (ABLE) found that in India, the biotechnology industry produced more than 400,000 direct jobs and more than 1.2 million indirect jobs in 2019. While the exact number of jobs produced by bioincubators is unknown, it is plausible to conclude that a sizable fraction of them were. Additionally, a number of prosperous businesses that emerged from India's bioincubators went on to significantly increase the number of job opportunities. For instance, MyLab Discovery Solutions, a business that specialises in medical diagnostics and graduated from Bangalore's C-CAMP, has produced over 500 jobs. A biotech business called Stempeutics Research, which graduated from Hyderabad's CCMB, has produced over 200 jobs. According to research by BIRAC, over 1,400 biotech firms were able to be incubated by BIRAC-funded bioincubators in India between 2012 and 2020, and they were also able to raise over Rs 4,200 crore ($570 million) in funding. A number of other bioincubators in India, besides those supported by BIRAC, have been instrumental in helping biotech businesses raise money. For instance, between 2018 and 2021, entrepreneurs were able to raise around Rs 500 crore ($68 million) in finance thanks to C-CAMP bioincubator. More than 70 per cent of the firms nurtured in bioincubators, according to BIRAC research, have been successful in obtaining funding or commercialising their goods. Dr Vishal Gandhi, Founder & CEO, BioRx Venture Advisors & Indian Healthcare Angels "Yes!" was the resounding answer from the speakers at the recent Mondelez International and Top Employers' Institute panel discussion to moderator Bunny Majaja's question: "Is Africa the new talent pool of the world?" Mondelez International and Top Employers Institute discussion panel (L-R): Bunny Majaja, Sandra Botha, Njabulo Mashingo, Cebile Xulu and Keshnie Martin The panel comprised Cebile Xulu - people lead, sub-Saharan Africa at Mondelez International; Keshnie Martin - head of HR, Accenture Africa; Njabulo Mashingo - HR director, Vodacom SA; and Sandra Botha - HR auditor at the Top Employer Institute. Xulu says that while Africa is viewed as an "emerging talent pool", it's not a new thing when one considers the number of service workers employed abroad: "We've always exported talent. I think now we're starting to see Africa exporting knowledge workers. So moving away from service, from hospitality, and moving towards tech [and] STEM ... qualifications and skills base. We are seeing a shift just in the skills that are being exported, and not necessarily the actual talent because we always exported talent to the rest of the world." Mashingo believes Africa's demographic dividend will take us a long way in terms of our youth: "Many markets are struggling because they have an ageing population. If you look at Africa, we are on the rise in terms of just having the population and the numbers. The question is, is it the right quality of candidates and can we do more?" Martin points out that there are many challenges facing young African talent in terms of education, infrastructure and political situations, while there are huge possibilities for them abroad. The continent is haemorrhaging skills as residents seek better opportunities for themselves and their families overseas. Xulu concurs: "People resign and they say, 'Well, you've given us the employee experience that we were looking for but the country is not giving me the citizen experience that I expect.'" So Africa's major challenge is to rectify these systemic issues in order to offer better opportunities to its own people and retain its homegrown talent. Remote and hybrid workforces "Coming out of the pandemic, where everybody's lifestyles have changed and people's needs and desires have changed in terms of focusing more on personal aspirations, as well as the professional - it's around how we adjust to accommodate that," continues Martin. African organisations have to embrace hybrid working and make an effort to understand their employees needs in order to retain and not lose talent. Xulu agrees, saying that younger people are looking for hybrid or remote opportunities where they are allowed to manage their own time and office schedule, rather than being told where they have to be and when. Mashingo says this points to a shift in the corporate power dynamic: "Talent won long ago because [they] vote with their feet while we're still debating things." Employees these days now hold much more power and businesses need to take a segmented rather than generic approach to their employee value propositions (EVPs). She suggests taking a hard look at what the company is aiming to attract, such as women or digital talent, and making a real investment into an EVP that speaks specifically to those demographics. Talent development Xulu says that where she has seen multinationals lacking is in the transfer of skills and knowledge to the locals working in African operations: "There's definitely the recognition that we do have the talent, but I'm not sure whether there is willingness to invest in the talent that we have, and not just bringing in external talent all the time onto the continent. "I don't think the companies that set up are intentional about leaving a lasting legacy in terms of developing the local talent," she continues, stating that while Africa needs foreign investment, this needs to be done in a sustainable way that will "build the local talent and leave Africa able to stand on its own two feet". "The Covid pandemic was really the trigger of organisations realising that there is this gap in terms of the skills we're going to require," says Botha. These skills include critical thinking and innovation, complex problem-solving, as well as technology, design and programming. "And then last but not least, resilience and flexibility is becoming more and more important." Botha explains that companies are incorporating this by updating frameworks to ensure that while they are developing leaders, they are also developing these skills. But this is not just for leaders, it's for employees too. "[Organisations are] really looking at super-personalising these leadership development programmes. It's not just a one-size-fits-all anymore. It's really to understand from our employees, what are the unique gaps, and then how can we close that?" Understanding employees "One of the biggest challenges that we face now as HR professionals is the focus on data analytics, making sure that we understand how to interpret the data that is now at our disposal using some of the systems that a lot of companies have invested in. And this is something that is quite new," says Xulu. "You have to almost take the same learnings that we've seen from marketing in terms of how they studied the consumers, and they use those insights to determine what sort of products are they going to be proposing to the business to make, to meet the consumer needs and the consumer expectations. "There's a lot of work that goes into understanding the consumer but I think as HR professionals, we are now being stretched to adopt the same mindset. Do we really understand the talent landscape?" Xulu asks. It's not what one thinks should be the experience, "it is what the talent expects when they come into the organisation." Xulu says it is this data-driven decision-making capability that HR professionals really need to embrace in order to have a meaningful impact on the talent decisions being made by organisations. The cookie-cutter approach HR has always taken is no longer going to work because employees want different things. Impactful leadership "The last thing I wanted to touch on in how we actually make sure that we keep the talent here, is leadership," Xulu advises. "There is something to be said about African leadership - that it's still very much hierarchical; that it's still very much unapproachable [and] fixated on, 'I am the adult, you're the child. You will not tell me anything. I'm the only one that can mentor you and there's nothing that I can learn from you.' "If we're still going to run organisations as if we're running a tribal council, it's not going to work and young people are not going to stand for that. They will definitely go elsewhere, where their voices are heard, where they feel that they can actually make a meaningful contribution to the business." Xulu says there is much 'unlearning' that leaders need to do to understand the new generation of talent - their career trajectory is much shorter and the curve not as steep; they are able to learn things that much quicker simply because of the technology that is available now. Referring to one of Accenture's global studies, Martin says, "If you focus on the moments that matter for your employees, then enhancing that employee experience by being there, by caring, by being better leaders, you actually unlock five times more human potential in terms of what people can achieve, what people can deliver, the innovation, the creative thinking. It's focusing on how do you make it a better place for your employees." The electricity minister, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa today expressed his gratitude to the Chinese ambassador Chen Xiaodong whose country is working with SA to ensure that the government is able to keep its hospitals powered up. He was speaking at the tabling of the Budget Vote which was presented at national assembly today, 31 May. Ramokgopa said it will be thanks to micro-grid islands that the State could ensure that there is an uninterrupted supply of quality electricity to hospitals and keep the power running to their critical and strategic installations. A micro-grid island refers to a localised electrical grid that operates autonomously and independently from the larger main power grid. It can function as a self-contained energy system, providing power to a specific area or community. Micro-grid islands often incorporate multiple energy sources, such as solar panels, wind turbines, small-scale hydroelectric generators, or even diesel generators. The Department of Health has identified 218 hospitals in need of power supply and, of these 76, are excluded from load shedding. "The idea is to further exclude another 46 hospitals from load shedding," Ramokgopa said. "We have done modelling and think that we have the capability to address the 137 hospitals that are remaining [in need]," he said. To this end, the State is looking at a set of interventions on renewable energy sources which includes photovoltaic (solar) batteries and inverters for small hospitals. "If we aggregate them we will need about R10.1bn worth of investment. If we juxtapose this with the diesel cost for small hospitals we will need to spend about R89m to buy generators and effect R3.3bn in operating costs for the purposes of running these generators." Ramokgopa said the State will be putting out a request for proposal before the end of July 2023 and outline a procurement process to secure the IPP (independent power producer) for micro-grids in the country. Ramakgopa's announcement aligns with Eskom's declaration in February this year that it is deploying micro-grids that will serve as an alternative solution to addressing load shedding. The technology will be used to complement the grid, serving as a backup electricity supply to hospitals and households. Progress in micro-grid technology According to the power utility, it is conducting feasibility studies at more than 80 project sites around the country. Most of the identified sites will use solar photovoltaic (PV) as the primary source of energy and lithium ion batteries for storage capability. Other sites will use micro wind turbines and small-scale hydro turbines, based on the most optimum energy source available. The roll out of these projects will be phased over the next five years. Eskom currently has four sites being powered by the microgrid technology in Ficksburg (Free State), Lynedoch (Western Cape) and Swartkop (Northern Cape), supplying renewable electricity to over 200 households, a police station and businesses in that area. Eskom is making notable progress in this regard, with the construction of the first energy storage facility under Eskoms flagship Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) project having already begun at the Elandskop BESS site in KwaZulu-Natal in December last year. National Security Adviser Cho Tae-yong, second from left, speaks during an emergency meeting of the National Security Council in Seoul right after the North launched an intermediate-range or longer ballistic missile, in this file photo provided by the presidential office, April 13. Yonhap The National Security Council (NSC) on Wednesday condemned North Korea's rocket launch as a grave violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions and a serious provocation threatening peace on the Korean Peninsula and beyond, the presidential office said. The presidential office convened an emergency NSC standing committee meeting led by National Security Adviser Cho Tae-yong to discuss North Korea's "long-range ballistic missile launch under the pretext of a so-called satellite," it said in a statement. North Korea fired the rocket at around 6:30 a.m., according to South Korea's military, going ahead with a launch it said would take place between Wednesday and June 11. The North later acknowledged failure in the launch and vowed to try again as soon as possible. "The NSC standing committee members emphasized that this launch, regardless of whether it succeeded, was a grave violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions and a serious provocation threatening peace and safety on the Korean Peninsula and in the international community, and condemned this," the statement said. "Also, the participants agreed to maintain a coordination posture with allies and friendly nations while continuing to carefully monitor the possibility of North Korea's additional launches," it added. The NSC meeting was attended by Unification Minister Kwon Young-se, Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup and National Intelligence Service Director Kim Kyou-hyun, among others, and preceded by a security situation assessment meeting. President Yoon Suk Yeol was briefed immediately after the launch and continued to be updated in real time, his office said earlier. The Joint Chiefs of Staff said the projectile fell into waters some 200 kilometers west of the South's southwestern island of Eocheong after an "abnormal" flight. North Korea's space agency later acknowledged the rocket carrying a military reconnaissance satellite crashed into the Yellow Sea due to an engine defect and that it plans to conduct an additional launch in the near future, according to the North's Korean Central News Agency. The next launch could take place within the window set by North Korea, a presidential official told Yonhap News Agency. "We're standing ready with that possibility in mind," the official said. Yoon agreed with U.S. President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at a trilateral summit in November to share missile warning data in real time to cope with the growing threat of North Korea's nuclear and missile program. The warning system was not activated Wednesday but will likely go into operation following coordination between the three countries' military authorities next month, the official said. (Yonhap) Emboldened by the real-time social media-driven environment, our customers and consumers have never been as vocally critical of brands as they are today. With this, reputational risk has never been more critical to the long-term management of brands and companies. Yet despite this, many brands still continue to flounder on the rocks of their reputations when the doodoo hits the fan. Much of this could be that marketers are not embracing real-time data to drill into reputational fundamentals that surround them. Its time to get upclose&personal - this years Nedbank IMC theme to consider the future of reputation. In a hybrid panel discussion, three highly credentialled thought leaders will lead us away from the best-laid-plans-that-sometimes-fail scenario and set about reframing our thinking around this critical topic. International speaker Shayoni Lynn will approach the topic from a behavioural science perspective. Lynn is the CEO and founder at multi-award-winning behavioural science consultancy, Lynn. One of Lynns service offerings is called the misinformation cell which uses research, strategy and response to break misinformation narratives. Lynn is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) and is chair of PRCA Cymru. Shayoni Lynn Also joining the panel is Dustin Chick who is the managing director of Razor PR, and a partner in the M&C Saatchi Group South Africa. Chick is recognised as one of the top reputation managers and communicators in Africa, having been named South Africas best PR Professional in 2021 by the Public Relations Institute of SA (PRISA) and was previously named by as one of the Top 25 Innovators in public relations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa in 2019 by leading industry publication PRovoke. He also sits on the board of the PRCA Africa. Dustin Chick PRovoke is a global content platform that provides analysis and insight into reputation, public relations and communications trends and issues. PRovoke CEO and editor-in-chief, Arun Sudhaman will join the panel discussion remotely. In 2015, Sudhaman became the youngest-ever inductee into the International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO) Hall of Fame. He is also a Trustee of the Institute for Public Relations and a PRCA Fellow. At the 2022 PRCA Asia-Pacific Awards, Sudhaman was named Journalist of the Year. Arun Sudhaman If you want to know how to navigate your brands reputation in a future that is increasingly transparent and demanding, the Nedbank IMC is a must-attend event. To find out more, register for the Nedbank IMC, a one-day event that will take place in person at Urban Brew Studios in Johannesburg, on 15 September 2023. There is also an online option. In-person tickets (conference only) are priced at R3,500 (excl VAT) until 31 May 2023. In-person tickets (conference and Effie Awards South Africa) are priced at R4,500 (excl VAT) until 31 May 2023. Limited seats are available. Virtual tickets are priced at R1,499. For more information, visit www.imcconference.com. This figure is closer to the investment in mature markets than it is to investment in emerging markets (where it is closer to 5%). When marketing managers explain the distribution of their budget among the different disciplines, they talk about ATL (37%), BTL (14.5%) and digital (48.5%). Digital has tripled its figure in the last nine years (2014=14.9%, 2023=48.5%), growing, especially, in the last three years, during which agencies have strengthened their teams and capabilities. Among the countries in which this research is carried out, Chile is the third market with the largest marketing-communication-advertising budget allocated to digital. This ranking is led by China where 50% of the budget is allocated to actions with a digital component. Of the different digital specialties, slightly more than half of the budget is invested in paid media (28%) and social media (26%). Chile still invests less in social media than other markets and the investment in e-commerce and marketplaces is still very much in its infancy. An average of six agency partners to solve the marketing-communication-advertising needs Each marketing manager in Chile works, on average, with just over six agency partners that solve their Marketing-Communication-Advertising needs: advertising agencies (2.5), BTL agencies (1.2), media agencies (1.0), digital agencies (0.9), PR agencies (0.6) and marketing consultants divisions (0.2). Greater desire to work with integrated agencies in the future 53% of marketers interviewed work with specialised agencies in different disciplines (advertising, BTL and digital), while 38.2% work with integrated agencies (which solves multiple needs under just one roof). The remaining 7.9% state that they work with both types of agencies.In Chile, the relationship model they want in the future does not coincide with the current reality, since advertisers desire to work with an integrated agency is larger (55%). At an international level, we observe a group of countries with a greater desire to work with an integrated agency in the future (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Portugal and South Africa) and another, in which the desire to work with specialised agencies is higher. (Colombia, Spain, UK, China and India). The latter are complex markets, in which specialisation is justified, mainly, by the need to have a greater number of different specialists: digital, data, or technology companies. Long relationships between advertisers and agencies The average length of an advertiser's relationship with their creative agencies is 5.3 years, a figure above the world average (4.4 years). Among the rest of countries analysed, we find Portugal to be the market where relationships are longest (6.4 years on average) and China to be the country in which the advertiser-creative agency relationships are shortest (3.1 years). In the case of media agencies, the average duration of the relationship is slightly higher - 5.4 years.Chilean advertisers build longer relationships than in other markets, and data indicates that long-term relationships produce better results. Worldwide, Chile is the country with the highest number of continuous relationships over time (90%), a figure similar to that registered in 2019 (88%). Only 10% of those interviewed state that they work by project (12% in 2019), a figure that has fallen because of the pandemic. In contrast, China is the market where there is a greater number of advertisers who work with their agencies by project - 51% (47% in the previous edition). Usurpa Gallery will present one of South Africa's most sensational young artists, Johannesburg-based illustrator, painter and multimedia artist Seth Pimentel, aka African Ginger, for his very first solo digital exhibition, The Pride Comes Before the Fall. Image supplied Hot on the heels of his participation in Usurpa s group exhibition The New Medium, African Ginger will present a collection of 12 digital portraits honouring the diversely melanated skin of persons of colour (POCs) in South Africa. Pimentel's artistic practice revolves around pushing the limits of modern portraiture by seamlessly blending painting, drawing and digital illustration, resulting in an innovative hybrid style that embraces experimentation. In recent years, African Ginger has channelled his craft into many local exhibitions, and collaborations with major international brands such as Converse, SneakerLab, Redbull and Jameson. In stark contrast to African Gingers typically desaturated pieces, The Pride Comes Before the Fall is an exploration of colour as weve never seen before from the visual artist. African Ginger describes the radiant colour palette of the 12 works he created for this exhibition as a celebration of a new beginning in an experimental phase of his career. This new beginning comes as a result of what African Ginger calls a conversation with his ego: The idea is to let go of the self and move on to something that is transcendental, to avoid staying in a place of comfort hence the name The Pride Comes Before the Fall. Date: 8 June to 7 July 2023 Time: Tuesdays to Fridays, 10am-5pm; Saturdays by appointment only. Location: 70B Oxford Road, Riviera, Johannesburg The Inside Education Foundation has launched the African Science & Technology Teachers Awards (ASTTA) aimed at recognising teachers across the African continent, who are excelling in their fields. Matuma Letsoalo, chairman of the Inside Education Foundation Teachers play a pivotal role in societal development and nation-building, yet their profession often goes underappreciated. The African Science & Technology Teachers Awards will significantly contribute to elevating teaching as a profession, empowering, and encouraging outstanding teachers from different schools across the continent, who achieve exceptional results against all odds. Matuma Letsoalo, chairman of the Inside Education Foundation, stated that the initiative aims to honour educators in the fields of Science & Technology, who not only answer the call but go above and beyond to change lives, inspire dreams, and push the limits of human potential. It is because of the contribution made by teachers that the African continent is today one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Matuma Letsoalo He emphasised that the contribution of teachers is what has propelled the African continent to become one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. It is because of the contribution made by teachers that the African continent is today one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Without teachers, Agenda 2063, which is Africas blueprint and master plan for transforming the continent into the global powerhouse of the future, will remain a pipe dream, said Letsoalo. "Africa as a continent has embraced the Fourth Industrial Revolution and this initiative will go a long way in ensuring our countries are not left behind in a rapidly changing society." An independent panel of judges will select the finalists for the African Science & Technology Teachers Awards from the nominations made by ordinary citizens, teachers, and learners across the continent. The Foundation invites all citizens, including learners, parents, teachers and academics, to nominate exceptional educators who are improving the quality of learning in the fields of science and technology across the continent. The African Science & Technology Teachers Awards features five categories: Best Young Science Teacher: An inspirational new science teacher who has shown great promise and an impact on your school and its pupils since joining the teaching team. Best Science Teacher: A strong passion for the teaching of science; inspire and empower their students to develop confidence, interest and deep understanding in the learning of science. Lifetime Achievement: A veteran science and technology teacher, who has a dedicated, and sustained commitment to education, and impacted those they have taught, worked with and inspired during their careers Best ICT Teacher: An inspiring and successful digital innovator in education and harnessing the power technology can offer in education to make a daily difference to students and staff alike. Best Math Teacher: A strong passion for the teaching of mathematics; inspire and empower their students to develop confidence, interest, and deep understanding in the learning of mathematics. The finalists for the African Science & Technology Teachers Awards will be announced in October 2023, coinciding with Teachers' Month. Nominations for the African Science & Technology Teachers Awards will open on Wednesday, 31 May 2023 and will close on 31 August 2023. To nominate your favourite teacher, please click https://insideeducation.co.za/inside-education-african-science-technology-teachers-awards-nomination-form/ to access the nomination form. All queries can be directed to az.oc.noitadnuofnoitacudeedisni@ofni SA Furniture Removals , who operate several regional moving companies, are relocating 100's of families every month from Johannesburg, Pretoria, Mpumalanga, KZN and other provinces to Cape Town and the Western Cape. We use these insights to monitor semigration trends and we try to understand what is driving these trends. We also recently commentated on how Eskom has been one of the top influencers for semigration in previous articles which can be found on our blog Moving Company News Cape Town universities There are several university ranking bodies that consistently ranks 3 of Cape Towns universities in the Top 8 including 2 within the Top 3 out of 26 South African universities. Although UCT, Stellenbosch and University of The Western Cape rank 1, 2nd and 8th respectively it must be said that their rank isnt necessarily the biggest influencing factor on why Cape Towns Universities are in high demand. We do believe there are other influences, and an obvious influence is that of parents seeking better, safer, and more professional opportunities for their children post-graduation. Parents are rightfully using their influence to try to navigate their youth to better opportunities and a safer productive environment. Its no secret that The Western Cape has initiated a forward-thinking program to enhance infrastructure, communities, industry, and particularly green energy and technology initiatives. Universities play a crucial role in directly supporting and upskilling these industries. The Western Capes aspiring objectives are based on better governance, better understanding of industry strengths and its forward planning to nurture and progressively and aggressively grow these key industries that will ultimately drive the Western Cape's economy. Overall, top universities in Cape Town have a positive impact on the economy by fostering innovation, creating jobs, promoting entrepreneurship, attracting investment, and developing a skilled workforce. Their contributions extend beyond the confines of the campus and play a vital role in the economic development of the region. Top universities in Cape Town play a crucial role in contributing to the economy in several ways. Here are some ways in which they help boost the local economy: Job creation: The universities in Cape Town, such as the University of Cape Town (UCT) and Stellenbosch University, employ many staff members, including professors, researchers, administrators, and support staff. These institutions create a significant number of jobs both directly and indirectly, providing employment opportunities for local residents. Research and Innovation: Top universities are canters of research and innovation. They attract talented researchers, scientists, and scholars who conduct cutting-edge research in various fields. This research often leads to discoveries, inventions, and technological advancements that have economic implications. Universities collaborate with industries, government agencies, and businesses to transfer knowledge and technology, fostering innovation and driving economic growth. Industry collaboration: Universities in Cape Town collaborate closely with local industries, businesses, and organizations. They provide consultancy services, training programs, and access to specialised facilities and equipment. These collaborations enhance the competitiveness of local businesses, improve productivity, and support the development of new industries and sectors. Entrepreneurship and startups: Many universities have entrepreneurship programs and incubators that support the development of startups and new ventures. They provide mentorship, business support, and access to funding, enabling students and researchers to transform their ideas into viable businesses. These startups and entrepreneurial activities contribute to job creation, attract investment, and stimulate economic activity in the region. Knowledge transfer and skills development: Through their education and training programs, universities equip students with valuable skills and knowledge. Graduates from top universities in Cape Town enter the workforce with high-quality education and specialized expertise, making them valuable assets for local businesses and industries. The availability of a skilled workforce attracts investment and encourages the establishment of new businesses in the area. Tourism and conference industry: Cape Town's top universities often host international conferences, seminars, and academic events. These events bring in researchers, academics, and professionals from around the world, promoting tourism and boosting the local hospitality industry. Visitors to the conferences contribute to the local economy by spending on accommodations, dining, transportation, and other services. Cultural and social impact: Universities contribute to the overall cultural and social vibrancy of the city. They organise public lectures, exhibitions, performances, and community engagement programs that attract locals and visitors alike. These events contribute to the cultural fabric of the city, attracting tourists and enhancing the quality of life for residents. The cultural and social activities associated with universities have indirect economic benefits, such as increased spending in local businesses and the creation of job opportunities in the creative and cultural sectors. Cape Towns Top 5 main industries According to Investcapetown.com, Cape Towns thriving economy is driven by five main sectors, namely, the manufacturing industry, financial and business services, tourism, agriculture and agro-processing, and construction. Cape Town growth industries include: Green technology, information technology, telecommunications, medical and research equipment and other hi-tech processes are on the rise, further broadening the ever-growing industrial core of the province. Theres a strong IT talent pool, helped by major investments by multinationals including Amazon and Microsoft. Weekly and affordable moving company services from Johannesburg to Cape Town and the Western Cape. SA Furniture removals are supported by their regional brands namely JHB Moving Company, Durban Furniture Removals, Cape Town Furniture Removals and Moving Company SA have developed a cost-effective Share Load Removal Company Service that gives the opportunity for our clients to facilitate the relocation of their youth and ultimately their own semigration to Cape Town and Western Cape at a fraction of the cost. Our nationwide removal company services are authenticated by solid Google and Hello Peter Reviews. Here are some typical moving costs when Semigrating to Cape Town and the Western Cape Average costs of moving from Johannesburg/ Pretoria to Cape Town 1 Bedroom Home R 5 300 R8 800 2 Bedroom Home R 7 900 R12 900 3 Bedroom Home R 12 900 R16 950 4 Bedroom Home R 17 850 R24 450 Small Load Removal / Minimum Price R2 850 Average costs of moving from Johannesburg and Pretoria to Knysna 1 Bedroom House / Dwelling R 5000 to R9 450 2 Bedroom House / Dwelling R 7450 to R 10 900 3 Bedroom House / Dwelling R 12 000 to R18 000 Contact our removal consultants responsible for Furniture Transport around the country who are in charge of our local moving companies near you which are based across South Africa including; Johannesburg, Durban and Pretoria. We have the infrastructure to support all your local and long-distance SA removal company requirements. In the last three years since semigration has gained momentum, we have relocated countless families from all over South Africa with trends always shifting across various regions of The Western Cape. Please contact your local Cape Town Furniture Movers for all your local removal in and around the Western Cape. The Western Cape's popular knitalong, Geknit Dit Met Tracey Lange, is now receiving tremendous support from three local schools, Hendrik Louw Primary in Strand, Wynberg Girls Junior School, and HS Bellville. The initiative calls on supporters to donate to get Cape Town warm and this year benefits senior individuals from four deserving organisations. As the knitalong gains momentum across the region, these schools have stepped forward to serve as ambassadors, rallying their respective communities to actively support and participate in this heartwarming endeavour. The schools will also serve as collection points for knitted items, such as blankets, scarfs, hats, gloves, socks, and shawls. Tracey Lange, the host of Kfm 94.5s weekday Mid Morning show says she is thrilled to have the schools on board. "It fills my heart with joy to see young minds embracing compassion and extending their support to older individuals through this initiative," says Lange, the driving force behind the knitalong. It is crucial for young kids to develop an understanding of the importance of caring for our seniors. By partnering with Kfm 94.5 and participating in Geknit Dit Met Tracey Lange, these school kids are not only doing good but might also discover a new skill as they learn to knit. I am confident that this experience will leave a lasting impression on these young hearts," adds Lange. Knitters and supporters wishing to contribute are invited to drop off their completed items, whether self-made, purchased, or gently used, at any of the participating schools. In addition, collection points have been set up at Kenilworth Centre and N1 City Mall. The drop-off period will remain open until Wednesday, 12 July, ensuring ample time for generous donations. All items will be distributed just in time for Mandela Day on 18 July. On the day itself, people are encouraged to spend 67 minutes chatting with or knitting alongside a senior family member, friend or any older person in need of connection and quality time. For more information and updates visit kfm.co.za and follow #GeknitDitMetTraceyLange on social media. Geknit Dit Met Tracey Lange beneficiaries: CPOA Lotus River House Parkhaven Old Age Home Wynberg KSA Kraaifontein Tehuis Sen CIT Restheaven Home for the Aged Impala Platinum has acquired a 9.26% stake in Royal Bafokeng Platinum from the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), the company said on Wednesday, 30 May, taking a controlling 55.46% shareholding in the smaller, asset-rich miner. Source: Reuters/Mike Hutchings In a statement, the Johannesburg-based platinum group metals (PGM) producer said RBPlat will become an Implats subsidiary. "The PIC is a strategic shareholder and key stakeholder in the South African PGM industry, and its decision to sell to us strongly affirms the rationale of the Implats transaction, which is key to the long-term economic stability of the Rustenburg region," Implats CEO Nico Muller said. Impala was involved in a drawn-out takeover battle with rival Northam Platinum, which had built a 35% stake in RBPlat since late 2021, before terminating its counter bid last month. The PIC is the biggest shareholder in both Impala and Northam, with 20.01% and 17.15% stakes, respectively, giving it kingmaker status in the protracted bidding war between the two rivals. What an honour to be recognised as the Rising Star for Innovation in OOH by the GroupM team. We are grateful for the opportunity to present our work as the largest network of Township Wall Media in South Africa, with 831 sites in 51 of the biggest townships across all none provinces. As the township community represents 52% of the overall consumer market in South Africa, worth R 400 Billion annually, this recognition from GroupM is a true testament to the achievements of our vision to develop a product that would bridge the divide between brands and a captive audience and to "Occupy All Streets." Our innovative airbrushed Out-of-Home Media techniques are backed by the behavioural insights of the South African market, communities and audiences currently reaching approximately 6 million township and urban consumers daily. As GroupM shapes the next era of media, we too are grateful for the partnership and the recognition of our creative executions and our high level of service. As the year draws to a close, all of us a Keys Communications wish you a happy and healthy transition into 2023. As we reminisce on the year behind us, we look ahead with a sense of gratitude for all the learnings of the past and renewed energy to face what the New Year has in store. DevConf 2023 in Cape Town and Pretoria was a success. For BET Software, it was a chance to showcase the companys brand and to strengthen its presence in the market. The conference also provided a wealth of knowledge through thought-provoking sessions, engaging workshops, and valuable networking opportunities. BET Softwares Grant Meldrum congratulates a lucky winner at DevConf. Grant Meldrum, national business development executive at BET Software, shares some takeaway tech lessons from DevConf. Describe DevConf 2023 in one word? Inspiring. Is there one session or talk that stood out for you and why? The session by Johan Olivier, titled: A Developers Odyssey To Overcoming Fear, Anxiety And Burnout. While most of the sessions that I attended concentrated on how to improve and maximise technical ability, Johan's session focused on the importance of developing non-technical skills such as EQ, organisational behavior, mentorship and leadership skills. These lessons are critical to the successful career paths of all developers to help reduce fear, anxiety and burnout. What are three key takeaway tech lessons from the conference? Firstly, that South African universities are not doing enough to promote and support technology development studies to students, which could adversely affect the building of technology companies in the future. Secondly, that business success is dependent on understanding and using big data. And lastly, that companies which have high-performing technology departments are generally market leaders, have higher ROI, are more robust during economic cycles and have higher employee retention than those that dont. BET Software had a popular stand at DevConf. BET Software was a silver sponsor this year, and your booth was incredibly popular. What kind of impact did the company want to make, and did you achieve this? Our booth attracted the highest traffic and interest at both the Pretoria and CPT conventions, due to interactive elements such as spin-and-win, our prize giveaways, BET developer interface with our team members and other developers. This helped to increase awareness of the BET Software brand and helped with the collection of potential developer candidates details that could lead to them considering BET Software as a future employer. DevConfs tagline is solving today and tomorrows software development challenges. After attending the conference, can you share one solid tip on how to practically do this? I would suggest that the organisers arrange more panel discussions around various developer issues and challenges and invite industry leaders to discuss and debate these issues to help to truly fulfil this positioning. DevConf in PTA was on 25 May, which is Africa Day. Why is it important for BET Software to continue growing its footprint on the continent? BET Software can help to locate, develop and train developers across the continent to ensure employment, economic upliftment, as well as the development and success of numerous partner companies and associated businesses. BET Software is fueled by a spirit of invention. Almost a month into your new position, what excites you most about this journey ahead? That nothing is impossible, and the sky is the limit! This Africa Month, we chat with Tendai Chitapi, co-founder of Kuronga, as we delve into the incredible journey of this innovative company in transforming Africa's agricultural landscape. Kuronga's efforts have been widely acknowledged, particularly with their recent achievement as one of the recipients of the esteemed Milken-Motsepe Prize in AgriTech. They were specifically praised for their creative use of advanced technologies that are part of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Tendai Chitapi, founder, Kuronga Here, we chat with Chitapi and explore Kuronga's innovative approach, examining the significant impact it has on Africa's agricultural sector. Could you give a brief overview of Kuronga and how it addresses challenges for small-scale growers in Africa? What inspired you to create a solution such as the AI Grading app? Kuronga was started by myself and Oliver Windram. We're both from Zimbabwe. We came together in 2020 to solve the problem of market access and quality mismatch often faced by smallholder farmers in Africa. Essentially, buyers of fresh horticultural produce are looking for two things: 1. Standardised quality- i.e. they want tomatoes of a particular size and ripeness that is the same across all deliveries. 2. Consistent supply- they want the same predictable quality delivered to their receiving bay on schedule consistently throughout the week. Small-scale growers often struggle to achieve this as their grading operations are not sufficiently rigorous on-farm. Quality and production rates are also more challenging to manage at small scale. Buyers also find they have to work with and manage grading standards for numerous small-scale growers who collectively could be more simply substituted for a single large-scale operator. This generally leads to sub-optimal market engagement of small-scale growers. At Kuronga, we realised that we could use digital mobile tech powered by AI to help farmers improve their grading standards on-farm. We could also use this same platform to coordinate deliveries across numerous small-scale growers. This, coupled with our key insight that there is a market for every grade of edible produce would allow us to dynamically allocate a farmers produce to the correct market based on grade with small-scale growers collectively helping to provide consistent supply. Kuronga co-founders Tendai Chitapi and Oliver Windram Kuronga was recently recognised as one of the winners of the Milken-Motsepe Prize in AgriTech. Can you share more about the competition and why your AI Grading app was recognised as a creative use of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies? What sets it apart from other solutions? The Milken-Motsepe Prize team were looking to award prizes to solutions that among other challenges seek to address food waste in the agricultural system. Based on the comparison of ourselves with other competing teams, we have understood that ours was one of the few digital solutions that had the potential to rapidly scale. Our focus on optimising farmer marketing of produce to the right market, using an objective automated solution to match the correct quality to the appropriate market, not only has the ability to rapidly scale but also to help address food waste in a meaningful way. Simply put, if farmers sell more and waste less of what they grow, this does help reduce on-farm waste. Apart from the prize money which is extremely helpful, we have also found that the validation that this prize has provided us as a young start-up has been immensely valuable. Kuronga aims to enhance food security by enabling farmers to sell their produce on time and reducing food waste. How does the app contribute to reducing waste at the farm gate? Can you provide examples or data? The app helps farmers grade their produce at the farm gate. It then helps them match the variable, now graded, quality that they grow to the appropriate market. Our key insight is that there is a market for every grade of edible produce. Our app helps farmers allocate the correct quality to the correct market. This means that overall they sell more of what they grow and less gets rejected at market because of grading inconsistency. How does the app address the unique needs and circumstances of smallholder farmers in different regions of Africa with their diverse agricultural practices and challenges? Managing is extremely challenging for all farmers but particularly small-scale growers that may not have sufficient capital to improve quality through changes in production. Local environmental conditions can also differ widely and thus, significantly impact a smallscale grower's crop grown on a single two-hectare plot. It is important that small-scale growers are given the opportunity to sell regardless of quality variance so that they can continue to operate and produce food off their land. Kuronga helps farmers achieve this. Furthermore, through the collective coordination of supply and quality management on the Kuronga platform, small-scale farmers can help deliver consistent supply to buyers. What are your plans for utilising the cash prize from winning the Milken-Motsepe Prize to enhance the AI Grading app and expand its reach to benefit more smallholder farmers in Africa? We are working on the app to improve the user experience and committing more time and resources to onboarding users. In what ways do you believe your accomplishment can inspire and encourage other aspiring innovators in Africa to pursue their own entrepreneurial journeys within the rapidly growing tech ecosystem? Its a long hard journey, keep going, believe in yourself and work with others that also believe in you. Persistence and passion is key. What challenges has Kuronga faced while implementing its solutions in Africa? How have you overcome them, and what lessons have you learned? It has taken us a while to uncover the reason behind the challenges that small-scale farmers face when engaging with markets. By talking directly with farmers and buyers we developed a better understanding of these challenges. What are Kuronga's future plans and goals? How do you envision the company contributing to the sustainable development of Africa's agriculture sector? 100, 000 users by year five. Enhanced food security and sustainability are written into Kurongas DNA. We have built a company that is specifically tackling food waste by helping farmers grow higher quality produce, ensuring maximum returns to the farmer, and eliminating waste. As we grow, so will farmers returns whilst also building a brighter healthier future for Africa. This photo, provided by the U.S. Defense Visual Information Distribution Service shows a combined salvage exercise between South Korea and the U.S. taking place at a naval base in Changwon, 298 kilometers southeast of Seoul, May 30. Yonhap The U.S. military has revealed it conducted combined naval salvage drills with South Korea earlier this week, just a day before North Korea's botched launch of what it claims to be a "space launch vehicle." The Pentagon's Defense Visual Information Distribution Service released photos of Tuesday's exercise, raising speculation that it might have taken place to practice procedures to retrieve wreckage from a potential North Korean rocket launch. The joint dive and salvage exercise took place at a key naval base in Changwon, 298 kilometers southeast of Seoul, mobilizing a group of U.S. and South Korean Navy divers and the U.S. rescue and salvage ship USNS Salvor, according to the U.S. military. On Wednesday, the North launched the projectile from Tongchang-ri on its west coast, which ended up crashing into the Yellow Sea after an "abnormal flight," according to Seoul's military. The North's state media reported that the rocket carrying a military satellite fell into the waters due to an engine problem and that the country plans to carry out a second launch in the near future. (Yonhap) The Constitutional Court yesterday, 30 May 2023, ruled that certain sections of the Promotion of Access to Information Act, as well as parts of the the Tax Administration Act are unconstitutional, in so far as they prevent access to tax records by a person other than the taxpayer. This is the judgment handed down in the matter of Arena Holdings (Pty) Ltd and Other v Sars and Others. The ruling confirms the declaration made by the North Gauteng High Court (Pretoria) that sections 35 and 46 of the Promotion of Access to Information Act 2 of 2000 (PAIA) as well as sections 67 and 69 of the Tax Administration Act 28 of 2011 (TAA) are constitutionally invalid. This follows the PAIA request by Arena Holdings and Amabungane Centre for Investigative Journalism to Sars to access the former-President Jacob Zumas tax records which were refused in March 2019. Sars refused access to the records on the basis that he is entitled to confidentiality as per sections 34 (1) and 35 (1) of PAIA as well as section 69 (1) of TTA. The Information Regulator of South Africa has a constitutional mandate to promote and protect the right of access to information, and the right to privacy as it pertains to the protection of personal information. The Regulator recognises the importance of ones right to privacy, however, this right must be balanced against other rights, in particular the right of access to information. The Regulator was cited as one of the respondents in this case and made submissions to the Constitutional Court that while section 35 of PAIA prohibits tax records from ever being released, this section must be read in the context of the right to transparency. The Court has suspended the specific sections for a period of 24 months from the date of the order to enable Parliament to address the constitutional invalidity found to exist. This order will ensure that section 46 of PAIA is amended to include tax records in the category of records which must be disclosed if such disclosure would reveal evidence of a contravention of, or failure to comply with the law and the disclosure is in the public interest, said chairperson of Regulator, Adv. Pansy Tlakula. The Regulator believes the judgment will go a long way in promoting transparency by public bodies and public officials and will strengthen the constitutional right of access to information. Mimi Kalinda co-founded Africa Communications Media Group (ACG) in 2012. At the beginning of this year, she was named the best PR leader 2022 for the Africa Region by the World Communication Forum Association. Her love affair with storytelling started early, when she was five years old and living in Kinshasa, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Her father was a diplomat, so the family travelled the world, never settling for long in one place, making it difficult for her to make lasting friendships. But she says, the one constant, no matter where they travelled, was television. This is how her love affair with the small screen began. It would lead her to an on-camera career, first as a Channel O presenter and then as a VJ on MTV. In fact, she was the first African face on the MTV Europe channel. From independent child to media personality The more I watched television, the more I understood that this thing actually shapes the world that we live in, she says. The family moved to South Africa when she was 13 years old. 1994 was the most impactful year for me. The country was transitioning to democracy and because I had become such a fan of television, the psychology of the media became obvious to me even at that age, she says. It fascinated her how this country was able to transition from what it was, to everybody loves each other, we are the rainbow nation, etc. Even at that age, I realised that a certain narrative was being built to enable this transition. My passion... is the way in which Africa is portrayed and the impact of that on the self-image of African immigrants. Yet, further up the continent in Rwanda, where her mother is from, there was a genocide happening. As you know, the genocide was partly started by a mass media campaign on radio encouraging people to commit atrocities. She realised the power of media, but also that it can be used both for good and bad. Thats when I thought, media is what I will do, but for good. If there are more of us doing good, with this platform and this tool, maybe by changing mindsets and getting people to see the similarities between themselves rather than the differences, then what kind of world could we build? That is how her journey began. An evolution from a child looking for TV friends to my TV friends actually having a lot of impact in the world from shaping me and others to bigger world issues. From presenter to activist She eventually quit MTV and moved to New York, where she enrolled at New York University (NYU) to study a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies. While at NYU, she interned for film director Spike Lee, who was one of her mentors and a professor at NYU, eventually working for his production company after graduation. I spent a lot of time around Lee and his crew and on film sets. While it was very creative, it was also a social-political environment. If you watch Lees films, you will know that he addresses social economic issues within the African-American community. At this point, she had become quite an activist in New York. My passion - it was my thesis for my degree and I made a documentary on it - was around the image of Africa on global stages, in particular, the way in which Africa is portrayed and the impact of that on the self-image of African immigrants who live in the US, she explains. The path back to Africa It was this passion and a discussion with Lee that would lead her back to Africa. Lees movies are not to get everyone in the US to think about African-Americans in a certain way, he makes his movies for African-Americans first; the fact that everybody else consumes them is great. I had no idea what PR was even about, but I got a PR job and I loved it. This was his point to her, that she should consider this mindset and model, putting the continent first and if others notice then that's fantastic. He thought that if I did what he does here (in NY) but on the continent, I would have so much more impact, she adds. He also then dared her not to go to SA, but back to her birthplace, the DRC, and to go figure it out. I love a challenge, so I moved to DRC (although I have not been there since I was five years old) and, with some friends from NYU who were also passionate about the continent, formed a production company and did what we called 'change communications'. Funding from USAID allowed them to buy a dilapidated house in Kinshasa. The most fulfilling thing about making films in that country was that we recruited talented young people with little to no opportunities. We trained them on the art of storytelling and filmmaking and they lived in this house while they did this. The DRC still has so many street children who have nowhere to go and nothing to do. The films they made were around HIV/Aids prevention and also violence against women. Many years later I received a phone call from one of these young people who is now a renowned producer working in advertising. This was 2007. Finding PR and communications However, most of her family had lived in South Africa since the 90s and she did not have much family left in the DRC. When she was expecting her daughter, she decided she wanted to be around family when she had her so she moved back to South Africa. I consider South Africa home. Its the most home I have had of all my homes. Back in South Africa she settled into motherhood. My eldest son is now 16 and when I had him, I was driving trucks through the DRC and shooting films. For my second child, I wanted peace and calm. I made a decision very early on that I was going to use my career in media and storytelling for good. This hiatus was interrupted when, while doing work for Samsung on the African Cup of Nations, and shooting in Tanzania, she met Deana Peterson, who ran Weber Shandwick in SA. The two connected and when they were back in Johannesburg, Peterson called her about doing work around behavior-changing communications. The public relations industry was changing, moving from press releases to incorporate more storytelling and content production. I had never considered working in PR - I had no idea what PR was even about, but I got a job at Weber Shandwick and I loved it. It was a combination of everything she had ever done. The content, the speaking, the strategy thinking around the impact of the media, the influencing, and trying to persuade. This was what I had been looking for. Creating a continent for our children Ten years ago, she co-founded her own PR and communications company to deliver on her passion for global development - anything that pushes the continent forward. Her passion shines through as she talks about her work. I made a decision very early on that I was going to use my career in media and storytelling for good, so for me it is about the impact of the work that we have done. Our work touches on almost every single challenge that the continent might be facing from gender equity, food security, agriculture, small farmers, the energy crisis, and sustainability, to climate change. Really my heart is to do work that directly influences peoples lives in a positive way. For her PR and communications are a tool. They are a tool to directly impact peoples lives. While we are not brain surgeons and finding the cure for cancer, within the bigger context, we are driving to the same destination but maybe in different vehicles, and the blue vehicle is PR and communications. And that is what I bring to the table. Others bring other tools but the whole idea is to see a continent that we want our children to live in generations from now. How can we manage a client that has battled to manage its reputation for literally hundreds of years? A client that when the world thinks about it, thinks gender inequality, war, HIV/Aids, famine, poverty, corruption... Source fabio formaggio 123rf We need to shift the narrative of the African continent says Christine McKeown, creative group head, Razor PR Meet the client, the African continent, says Christine McKeown, creative group head, Razor PR. With perceptions so entrenched around the continent, could there be a client that needs reputation management more? In recent years, the continent has undergone a transformation that is remarkable, shaping its own destiny and changing its narrative. It should be referred to as the African opportunity. How do we change it? She says we do. Africas reputation management consultancy is the PR sector. Its us you and me. We are the collective consultancy that must manage Africas reputation. McKeown says it is PR campaigns that can educate the rest of the world and stop the oncoming stereotypes about the continent, changing the narrative of Africa. So much work to do Africa needs to divert its efforts of looking to produce content like that of other third-world countries, there is no uniqueness there. Rather we need to create content that is originally African, and we can do this to create local PR campaigns and content to educate those who think Africa is a country... Yes this is where we are starting, which shows just how much work there is to do. But there are powerful stories coming out of the continent on a daily basis, and she says PR agencies can start by pushing the pro-African content of our clients. Agencies can focus on different countries on the continent. Is there anything more exciting than the amount of culture across the continent? Its just a starting point but there are limitless opportunities. PR campaigns can foster Africa as a place of investment to change the scope of selling Africa to selling out of Africa, she says. Connecting the head and the heart She adds to this saying that we need to apply African solutions to African problems and stop looking for solutions from across the sea. We cannot solve African problems with international solutions. Just because it works in developed countries does not mean it will work here. "This means we need to align our values with African brands and individuals and develop communications strategies to fit the continent. And this means talking to our heart." Nelson Mandela famously said: If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart. As PR professionals, the key is finding the head and the heart connection, in any work and situation, and when get this connection, then we are winning. This means creative strategy and messaging that resonates with Africans and connects to their heart. And this, McKeown says, is so important because while changing the way the world views Africa is critical, changing the way we view ourselves is even more so. The negative narrative around Africa comes from inside. It is that collective feeling that African people have that we are not good enough and cannot compete on the international stage, that our music, art, fashion, etc., is not good enough. We are enough But change is happening and there are Africans breaking these barriers as innovation is thriving on the continent. She says, We see it in music, art, and fashion as well as technology, and this showcases Africa in an honest and authentic way, leading us to occupy different spaces. Because we are enough. In fact, we are better because we are interesting and live with heart. The fact is, she states, that we can change the narrative. If you feel like you cannot make an impact, because it is such a massive job, start with your own clients. Do work from the heart with authenticity, as African communicators communicating African messages. Lets become the combined consultancy for Africa. Together we have power. So, PR agencies are you game? Tech-network giant, Vodacom played host to local SMME suppliers and business partners at the launch of the inaugural Vodacom Innovator Trust Supplier Development Conference, honouring top achieving South African small businesses within the Vodacom supply chain. The conference took place on Thursday, 18 May at VodaWorld, Midrand, in collaboration with the Innovator Trust who serve as the management and implementation partner for the Vodacom Innovator Trust Supplier Development (SD) programme. With the first intake of SMME beneficiaries back in 2018, several initiatives ranging from health and safety training, access to markets support, POPIA training, FTTX equipment and training, FTTH sales training, a Wi-Fi installations initiative and most recently, a logistics initiative. One of the flagship programmes available to SMMEs is the iThuba sales and marketing initiative which aims to uplift the SMMEs brand, providing them with necessary access to key marketing tools and encouraging the uptake of new digital technologies and platforms to allow them to thrive in an increasingly competitive and digital economy. To date, 147 SMMEs have been supported over a 2-year period through the SD programme. Tashline Jooste, CEO at Innovator Trust Lynda Marthinus, Vodacom Group head BBBEE and transformation On behalf of the Innovator Trust, it is an honour to be a part of this iconic event. The ICT small business industry is doing amazing things when it comes to innovation and technology, and Vodacom is one organisation who has walked the talk when it comes to SMME support and continues to pioneer the way forward to ensure that SMMEs develop into key contributors to the ICT sector and the South African economy at large, commented Tashline Jooste, CEO of the Innovator Trust. In addition to highlighting the strides taken by the Vodacom in their commitment to SMMEs, the conference also offered a platform for stakeholders from both sides of the table to engage on the realities of supply chain management, where the opportunities lie and how, as a small business, one can capitalise on them. The conference featured several industry leaders who delivered insightful keynote addresses throughout the programme. The list included representatives from Vodacom, Takalani Netshitenzhe, chief officer and executive director of external affairs for Vodacom South Africa, Lynda Marthinus, Vodacom Group head of B-BBEE and transformation, Rashmika Singh, executive head of IT and enterprise for Vodacom Supply Chain Management, and Ricardo Platt, Vodacom Payments managing executive who shared an exciting presentation on the unique offers from Vodacom tailored for the SMME market. Mandisa Mpeko, supplier development manager at Innovator Trust Keynote speaker, Musa Kalenga, CEO at Brave Group Chief executive officer for The Brave Group and author, Musa Kalenga, was a guest speaker at the event and captivated the audience in his keynote on how SMMEs can experience exponential growth in business through sales and marketing. Lazo Karapanagiotidis, IoT.nxt chief product and marketing officer and Takalani Mavhunga, chief financial officer of Nexio, both subsidiaries of Vodacom also featured as panelists on the programme discussing supply chain challenges, the effect of digital transformation on supply chain management and the importance of improving engagement with SMME suppliers. Chief executive officer for The Brave Group and author, Musa Kalenga, was a guest speaker at the event and captivated the audience in his keynote on how SMMEs can experience exponential growth in business through sales and marketing. Lazo Karapanagiotidis, IoT.nxt chief product and marketing officer and Takalani Mavhunga, chief financial officer of Nexio, both subsidiaries of Vodacom also featured as panelists on the programme discussing supply chain challenges, the effect of digital transformation on supply chain management and the importance of improving engagement with SMME suppliers. For SMMEs who have excelled in growing their businesses, showing an increase in revenue, size, and improvement in service delivery while on the SD programme, Vodacom showed acknowledgement with performance awards given to SMMEs across several categories. Each of the awards were also accompanied by cash prize grants towards the small businesses. On behalf of the Innovator Trust and the Vodacom Supplier Development programme, it is my hope that the essence of our commitment to SMMEs and the ICT sector is accurately received and todays event results in even greater engagement, change and impact that will lead the way in the interest of the development of SMME suppliers in our country, remarked Jooste. PLEASE DISABLE AD BLOCKER TO VIEW DISQUS COMMENTS Ad Blocking software disables some of the functionality of our website, including our comments section for some browsers. Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. The symposium that was to take place on Sunday aimed to honor the memory of Dominique Venner, a historian who took his life exactly 10 years ago in the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris as a sacrifice to break with the lethargy that is overwhelming us, to awaken slumbering consciences. I rebel against fate. I protest against poisons of the soul and the desires of invasive individuals to destroy the anchors of our identity, including the family, the intimate basis of our multi-millennial civilization, he said in a message read after his death. In one of the six decisions taken by the police prefect in Paris last weekend to comply with the order of Prime Minister Elisabeth Bornes government, an administrative court overturned the ban against a conference and a march organized by the royalist organization Action Francaise to commemorate Joan of Arc. It was thus allowed to proceed and did so without disrupting public order, just like in previous years. The organizers of the Iliade Institutes symposium, however, were informed so late less than 24 hours before their planned event that it was impossible to obtain an interim measure in their favor by a court. Hence, when the persons invited to the symposium turned out at the venue rented out by the Iliade Institute in Paris, a police cordon barred their entry. Laurent Nunez, the police prefect of Paris, motivated the ban by stating in his decision that: There is a serious risk that, on the occasion of this tribute, statements inciting hatred and discrimination against a group of people because of their origin or their membership or non-membership of an ethnic group, nation or religion will be made () of such a nature as to call into question national cohesion and the principles enshrined in the Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen. This is exactly what preventive censorship is about: Nothing has yet been done or said by the Iliade Institute or any participant to the banned symposium, but this might happen, so it should not take place at all. This type of censorship was previously eliminated in France with the 1881 law on freedom of the press and up to now it was only re-established in times of war. However, in 2014 the president of the Conseil dEtat, Frances top administrative court which is closely linked to the executive branch, as its judges are often rewarded for their services with top posts in ministries, created precedence by validating a ban against a show by Dieudonne MBala MBala, a French comic owing his African name to his father from Cameroon, who had been previously convicted several times of inciting racial hatred because of his anti-Zionist jokes, which were said to be anti-Semitic. But the May 9 decision by Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin goes even further because it targets organizations that have not necessarily been convicted in the past but belong to the far right or ultra-right in the eyes of French authorities. Darmanin made his decision after a march by some 500 young people dressed in black with Celtic crosses, often described as a neo-fascist symbol in France, took place on May 6 as it does every year always legally and peacefully to commemorate the death in 1994 of a young far-right activist who was fleeing the police during a banned protest. However, organizations like the Royalist Action Francaise or the identitarian Institut Iliade have no links with those marching on May 6. Even a very politically correct commentator like Jean-Yves Camus, who is often invited by the overwhelmingly left-leaning French mainstream media as an expert on the far right, expressed dismay at the Paris police prefects decision concerning the Iliade Institute: There was no real risk, if any, of things getting out of hand, he said, as the Iliads conferences are filmed and posted on their website fairly quickly. About the risk of racist remarks being heard at the Sunday symposium, Camus said that one could assume there is such a risk only if talking about the Great Replacement is racist. It was in fact a point made in the motives given in writing by the police prefect of Paris for his decision to ban the event: This meeting is not a simple tribute event but rather a celebration to continue the actions against the acceleration of the great Afro-Maghrebi replacement.' The police prefect used quotation marks in this sentence as he attributed those words about the great Afro-Maghrebi replacement to the Iliade Institute, although its director, Jean-Yves Le Gallou, denied at a press conference those words came from his organization. The Iliade Institute also contested the assertion by the authorities that the Sunday symposium was a public event, as it was to be held in a privately leased venue for invited participants only. It looks as if the French authorities wanted to ban any discussion about the ongoing population replacement linked to ever-greater mass immigration, both legal and illegal, which a large majority of French citizens see as a cause for worry. Le Gallou, a former high-ranking civil servant, says this reflects a much wider political tendency: The government is weakened by its policies that go contrary to the aspirations of the French, in particular on two major subjects: the massive immigration being distributed, little by little, in rural France and the limitation of private property in relation to the development of wind power. So the political leaders have only two solutions left, Le Gallou thinks: massive propaganda and censorship. There are two forms of censorship, which are the direct censorship we have experienced and censorship by intimidation. This is what I call the totalitarian pincer movement.' The return of preventive censorship targeted at those who oppose mass immigration or defend conservative, patriotic values comes after President Emmanuel Macron acted through his Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin to ban the non-violent, law-abiding youth organization Generation Identity in 2021 for its peaceful protest actions against the lack of controls by authorities to stop the influx of illegal immigrants at Frances borders with Italy and Spain. The police prefects decision to ban the Iliade Institutes symposium was preceded by an article published on the left-wing website Mediapart. It was written with information on the late historian Dominique Venner that could only have been leaked to the author by the authorities, so it seems that this publication was part of the authorities plot to ban the event. The article was published on Friday at 5 p.m. Only a few hours later, the police prefect decided to ban the event that was planned for Sunday at 3 p.m., but apparently his services waited until Saturday afternoon to inform the organizers about his decision so that they could not have the ban overturned in time by a judge. In the 2017 presidential campaign, which brought Emmanuel Macron to power, Mediapart was one of the two left-wing media portals that regularly received documents illegally leaked by the police and judicial authorities in the case mounted against center-right candidate Francois Fillon to derail his campaign and make room for the heir of Socialist President Francois Hollande, i.e., his former special counselor for Europe and former Economy Minister Emmanuel Macron. So it appears the same media outlet is still being used by the executive power to attack its opponents in a very unconstitutional way, and one may wonder in this situation if France is still a full-fledged democracy. The South Korean Navy and coast guard conduct a drill aboard a speedboat to crack down on a ship suspected of carrying weapons of mass destruction in line with the Proliferation Security Initiative on seas off southern Jeju Island, May 31. Yonhap Multinational maritime drills aimed at preventing the trafficking of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) kicked off Wednesday, as North Korea's attempt to put its first spy satellite into orbit failed. The Eastern Endeavor 23 drills, which were staged in a scaled back manner due to poor weather conditions, come after South Korea hosted a high-level forum of countries committed to preventing the trafficking of WMD under the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) on Jeju Island the previous day. Under the scaled-back plan, only the ROKS Wang Geon destroyer participated in the exercise from a port in Jeju, while the U.S.' USS Milius destroyer, Japan's JS Hamagiri destroyer and Australia's HMAS Anzac frigate joined in from the seas south of Jeju and conducted the maritime interdiction exercise in a computer-simulated format. The exercise involved procedures to disseminate information on a virtual vessel suspected of carrying WMD, tracking down the vessel, followed by on-board search operations by the South Korean Coast Guard personnel and others. Delegates from 70 countries observed the exercise from the 14,500-ton ROKS Marado amphibious landing ship docked on a civilian-military naval base on the southern island of Jeju. Due to the changes, a planned review of the warships by Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup was canceled. The event had drawn attention as the Japanese warship was expected to hoist the ensign of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, which critics say could trigger a historical controversy as it looks akin to the Rising Sun Flag, seen as symbolic of Japan's past militarism. The South Korean Navy and coast guard conduct a drill to crack down on a ship suspected of carrying weapons of mass destruction in line with the Proliferation Security Initiative on seas off South Korea's southern Jeju Island, May 31. Yonhap The National Election Commission holds an emergency meeting at its head office in Gwacheon, south of Seoul, May 31. Yonhap A special audit committee of the National Election Commission (NEC) concluded Wednesday that possible irregularities were detected in the employment of children of four senior officials and will request an investigation. The election watchdog has come under fire after suspicions arose that children of some senior officials landed agency jobs thanks to the influence of their fathers. The NEC secretary general and his deputy offered to resign last week, though they claimed no wrongdoing. At least four other similar cases have also been found since. On Wednesday, the NEC's special audit committee held a meeting and decided to refer four senior officials, including Secretary General Park Chan-jin and Deputy Secretary General Song Bong-sup, to an investigation over the suspicions. The committee said circumstances were detected that made it difficult to rule out the possibility that the four exercised undue influence in the hiring process of their four children for experienced positions. Song and Park have consistently rejected the allegations, emphasizing the hiring of their children was done in a fair and transparent manner and that their children received no favors since joining the election agency. Amid calls from the ruling People Power Party (PPP) for him to step down and take responsibility for what it calls "daddy chance," NEC Chairman Rho Tae-ak once again offered an apology for the allegations. "I sincerely apologize," Rho told a press conference. Roh, however, reiterated he has no intention to resign. The PPP has reportedly suggested a state inspection into the snowballing allegations, to which Rho expressed his willingness to comply. Rho said the agency has devised various reform measures, including opening the secretary general position to external candidates, which had previously been limited to internal candidates for the past 35 years. Additionally, the NEC plans to either scrap or reduce hiring for experienced positions. Rho also said the NEC will conduct a joint investigation with an independent outside agency to probe all incumbent and former officials for possible irregularities related to the hiring of their children. (Yonhap) The National Human Rights Commission of Korea / Korea Times file Correctional authorities' decision not to allow an inmate to leave prison to attend his mother's funeral in 2021 for reasons of COVID-19 quarantine was a violation of human rights, the state human rights watchdog said Wednesday. The National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK) has put forward such an opinion after the inmate lodged a petition with it last June saying he could not attend his mother's funeral in December 2021 due to the prison's refusal to permit a leave because of the pandemic. The current law stipulates that inmates can be granted a special leave of absence within five days in case of the death of a member of their or their spouse's immediate family. The prison authorities explained that the inmate's application for a special leave was denied in consideration of a growth in the number of COVID-19 infections among inmates and the need to strengthen quarantine measures for the correctional facilities. But the NHRCK pointed out the spread of COVID-19 could have been prevented with regular quarantine and testing of the inmate after his return from the leave. (Yonhap) Ryan Gosling has defended his casting in the highly anticipated Barbie movie, saying: If people dont want to play with my Ken, there are many other Kens to play with. The Hollywood actor, 42, stars alongside Margot Robbie in the live-action film based on the famous Mattel doll, from Oscar-nominated actress and director Greta Gerwig. After he was cast in the role, fans on social media suggested Gosling was too old to play Barbies boyfriend. Responding to the criticism, Gosling told British GQ: I would say if people dont want to play with my Ken, there are many other Kens to play with. It is funny this kind of clutching-your-pearls idea of, like, #notmyken. Like you ever thought about Ken before this? But suddenly, its like, No, weve cared about Ken this whole time. Advertisement No, you didnt. You never did. You never cared. Barbie never f***** with Ken. Thats the point. If you ever really cared about Ken, you would know that nobody cared about Ken. So your hypocrisy is exposed. This is why his story must be told. Ryan Gosling is GQs global summer issue coverstar (Gregory Harris/PA) He also said he found connections between his childhood self and the character, saying: Theres something about this Ken that really, I think, relates to that version of myself. Just, like, the guy that was putting on Hammer pants and dancing at the mall and smelling like Drakkar Noir and Aqua Net-ing bangs. I owe that kid a lot. I feel like I was very quick to distance myself from him when I started making more serious films. But the reality is that, like, hes the reason I have everything I have. The Oscar-nominated actor also spoke about his absence from Hollywood after his partner Eva Mendes had their second child, saying: I wanted to spend as much time as I could with them. La La Land star Gosling met 2 Fast 2 Furious actress Mendes on the set of 2011 film A Place Beyond The Pines and the couple have two daughters, Esmeralda and Amada. Advertisement Ryan Gosling as Ken and Margot Robbie as Barbie (Warner Bros/PA) He added: I wasnt thinking about kids before I met her, but after I met Eva, I realised that I just didnt want to have kids without her. And there were moments on The Place Beyond The Pines where we were pretending to be a family, and I didnt really want it to be pretend any more. I realised that this would be a life I would be really lucky to have. The global summer issue of British GQ is available on digital download and newsstands from June 13th. An auctioneer in Belfast has been urged to stop the sale of a pencil which purportedly once belonged to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. The ornate silver-plated pencil is set to go under the hammer in Belfast next week as well as a signed portrait of the notorious dictator who led the regime responsible for the Holocaust. The pencil is estimated to sell for between 50,000 and 80,000 (57,000 and 92,000), while the photograph is expected to sell for between 10,000 and 15,000. The chairman of the European Jewish Association, Rabbi Menachem Margolin, has written to Karl Bennett, managing director of Bloomfield Auctions, asking him to withdraw the items. He questioned whether the auction house would sell possessions belonging to a terrorist who committed an atrocity in Northern Ireland, such as the IRA bombing of La Mon hotel in 1978 on the outskirts of east Belfast which killed 12 people. Advertisement In his letter to Mr Bennett, Rabbi Margolin said he is making a moral appeal. I am writing to respectfully ask you to withdraw these items from the auction. This is not a legal appeal to you Mr Bennett, but very much a moral one, he wrote. In comments attributed to you in a national newspaper, you say: But for me, as a high-end collector of militaria items, they preserve a piece of our past and should be treated as historical objects, no matter if the history they refer to was one of the darkest and most controversial in recorded history. We simply cannot fathom how a love trinket such as an engraved pencil or a signed photograph constitutes a historical object of any inherent historical value. The rabbi went on to say that in Europe and further afield, auction houses are buying and selling other items such as watches, ashtrays and even Wehrmacht toilet paper purported to have belonged to senior Nazis. The defence from Munich to Maryland is the same, these items are of historical interest. They are anything but, he wrote. Let there be no doubt, items of genuine historical interest do belong in museums or places of learning. This we fully support. Advertisement A signed portrait of Nazi leader Adolf Hitler is set to go under the hammer in Belfast next week. Photo: Bloomfield Auctions/PressEye/PA. But the buying and selling of items such as yours are dangerous on a number of fronts: they create a macabre trade in items belonging to mass murderers, the motives of those buying them are unknown and may glorify the actions of the Nazis, and lastly their trade is an insult to the millions who perished, the few survivors left, and to Jews everywhere. He concluded his letter: What is sold and to whom is a matter of public decency and moral responsibility at the end of the day. It is in this spirit of decency that I ask you again to withdraw the Nazi auction items, to send a message that some things particularly when so metaphorically blood soaked, should not and must not be traded. Earlier this week Mr Bennett defended the sale of the items, telling the PA news agency: I understand why some people may struggle to understand why items like these are sold and collected, but for me, as a high-end collector of militaria items, they preserve a piece of our past and should be treated as historical objects, no matter if the history they refer to was one of the darkest and most controversial in recorded history. Advertisement These items give us concrete ties to the past so that we can never forget. A spokesman for Bloomfield Auctions said: Bloomfield Auctions is a specialist auction house for militaria across all centuries. All items are a part of history, and we shouldnt be writing history out of books or society. Lifestyle Silver-plated pencil that allegedly belonged to Ad... Read More In my experience those who buy such items are legitimate collectors who have a passion for history. We do not seek to cause hurt or distress to any one or any part of society. All items have a story and tell of a particular time in history. A sexual assault victim seeking an abortion was actively obstructed by a GP as she returned three times seeking treatment, Oireachtas members have heard. Another woman attended seven different GPs before finding one prepared to refer her to options on ending her pregnancy, an academic told the health committee. Assistant professor Dr Catherine Conlon, from Trinity College Dublin, has done extensive research on the provision of abortion services in Ireland and was involved in the independent review of the current regime. Giving evidence to TDs and senators on the committee, Dr Conlon described the experiences of women who had struggled to find general practitioners prepared to offer abortion services or referrals. She said women often had to run the gauntlet in their efforts to access treatment. You could hear very negative responses to you asking for abortion care if that was the case, she said. Advertisement We had one woman, a migrant woman living in the west of Ireland, who attended seven GPs before she was referred to the options. And then one who was actively obstructed by a GP she would have returned to three times. The woman who returned three times had reported a sexual assault, that had been the reason for the pregnancy, so it was particularly difficult for her. She did eventually make her way to a womens health clinic who did also refer to the Satu (Sexual Assault Treatment Unit). Barrister Marie OShea, who led the independent review of Irelands abortion system, also highlighted issues with protests outside facilities providing abortions in Ireland. I spoke directly with two consultants who referred to the protests that were taking place outside their hospital, and how they felt they were inappropriate, particularly inappropriate they felt in terms of people who were coming out of that hospital having had miscarriages, to see white coffins on the ground and people, you know, just standing outside a healthcare facility referring to death, basically where theyve gone through circumstances where their own pregnancy has ended, she said. A homeless asylum seeker with a history of mental health difficulties has brought a High Court challenge against the state's refusal to provide her with accommodation. The action has been brought on behalf of a woman, aged in her 20s and is from a Central American country, who the High Court heard on Wednesday has been refused a place to stay because she left the Irish Protection Office (IPO), before a taxi arrived to take her to venue where she would be accommodated. Her counsel David Leonard Bl, instructed by solicitors acting for the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, said that the woman, who cannot communicate in English effectively, left the IPO after being told that no accommodation was available to her. She had waited for some time in the IPO before leaving, it is claimed. Advertisement It is claimed that in an email sent in early May on behalf of the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, who has responsibility for those seeking international protection, stated that she would not be given accommodation because she left the IPO before the taxi arrived. While the woman is apparently on a "re-accommodation list" counsel said that her situation is precarious. Over the last number of weeks has been staying on friend's sofas, but has also spent nights on the streets, she has no family nor close friends in Ireland. The woman has a history of mental health issues and has been self-harming. Her condition has been exacerbated, due to her homelessness, it is also claimed. It is claimed that the Minister has no legal power to withdraw the relevant reception conditions where the person leaves the IPO before the taxi arrives. They initially came to Ireland on a student visa, but earlier this year applied for international protection, citing a fear to return to her home country because she claims she has been harmed by and is at risk from a former partner, who has a powerful position in well-known and very large criminal gang. As a result of being left homeless the woman, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, has brought judicial review proceedings against the Minister for Integration and the Attorney General. In her action, she seeks various orders and declarations from the court. These include orders quashing the Minister's decision of May 3rd last refusing to provide her with housing, and that the Minister be required to provide her with accommodation. She also seeks various declarations including that the Minister's failure to provide her with accommodation is unlawful, and in breach of her EU law rights, the Irish Constitution and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. She further seeks damages for the breach of her rights. Ireland Boy (12) died when car he was driving hit truck in... Read More Her action is one of many brought on behalf of those seeking international protection who were left without accommodation currently before the High Court. The matter came before Mr Justice Cian Ferriter, who on an ex-parte basis granted the woman's legal team permission to bring the challenge. The judge noted that while all persons without accommodation are vulnerable, the evidence before the court was to the effect that the application is in "a particularly vulnerable situation." The matter was adjourned to a date in mid-June. The Information Commissioner has ruled that RTE was wrong to issue a blanket refusal to a request by staff to release an internal report that was highly critical of the workplace culture in the stations current affairs unit. The Office of the Information Commissioner has directed RTE to release part of the report drawn up by an external consultancy firm, Resolve Ireland, in response to an application by RTE journalist, Conor Ryan, under freedom of information legislation. Mr Ryan, who works with Prime Time Investigates team, had sought the report on behalf of the RTE current affairs chapel. However, the OIC said the broadcaster was justified in refusing to release parts of the report which contained personal information about identifiable individuals. RTE argued that the information contained in the report amounted to performance appraisals of some senior staff. Advertisement The OIC acknowledged some parts contained views in relation to the communications style and editorial direction taken by identifiable individuals as well as their people management skills. The report, which was described as both a temperature check and a culture audit was commissioned in 2021. It sought feedback from staff in RTEs current affairs unit about their working environment and a range of topics including communication, teamwork, standards of dignity and respect, problem resolution and support. A total of 45 staff 85 per cent of all employees in the unit met on a one-to-one basis with consultant Miriam Maher. A presentation on the reports findings was made to RTE staff in May 2022, but the actual report was not released despite a formal motion being passed by the RTE current affairs chapel for it to be provided to those who had engaged in the process. It is understood that RTE management did not respond directly to questions if changes in its management structure were connected to the reports findings. Mr Ryan claimed the review of RTEs performance in the area of dignity and respect in the workplace was of significant interest to its staff whose lives were impacted by the culture and environment of the current affairs unit. Advertisement He also claimed there was a wider public interest in ensuring that RTE as a public sector body upheld its legal responsibilities under employment legislation. However, the OIC said the right of privacy of identifiable staff members outweighed the public interest argument in relation to the release of such information. But it dismissed RTEs claims that the report should be withheld on the basis that it contained information provided in confidence as well as prejudicing the effectiveness of investigations and audits carried out by the broadcaster. RTE had argued that publication of the report was highly likely to inhibit others from participating in future reviews especially as it was carrying out a temperature check on other areas within the organisation. It claimed its release would have a chilling effect on anyone who wished to raise a HR matter in the station. Mr Ryan has said the opposite was true as staff in the current affairs unit had engaged in the process on the basis that the outcome of the report would be shared. The OIC said it was not satisfied that the release of view on general themes which had been anonymised to guarantee confidentiality of participants could reasonably be expected to inhibit others from giving similar information in future or have a significant adverse effect on RTEs ability to manage staff. It also dismissed RTEs argument that the report should be withheld as it was part of a deliberative process as well as being contrary to the public interest. RTE has four weeks to appeal the OICs ruling on a point of law to the High Court. A nurse who forged a prescription for inhalers and sleeping tablets after stealing prescription forms from his workplace has appeared before a fitness-to-practise inquiry of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland. The nurse, who cannot be named on direction of the NMBI, admitted to six allegations in relation to the unauthorised taking of prescription forms and medicines from Clonmethan Lodge in Oldtown, Co Dublin on May 3rd 2017. The NMBIs fitness-to-practise committee heard that the nurse claimed his actions were linked to an addiction to sleeping tablets he developed after being the victim of a violent assault by a resident of the care facility in November 2015. The nurse told the inquiry that he no longer had any concerns about a relapse into substance abuse as he had stopped taking such medication in 2017 and wanted to be able to continue to work as a nurse. Advertisement The inquiry heard that he resigned from his job at Clonmethan Lodge in February 2020 before a disciplinary process had been completed and had subsequently worked for a nursing agency during the Covid-19 pandemic. The nurse admitted taking approximately 20 prescription forms and various forms of sleeping tablets without authorisation from Clonmethan Lodge a residential facility for people with an intellectual disability and associated mental health problems operated by St Josephs Intellectual Disability Service. The inquiry heard the issue came to light after a pharmacy assistant questioned the forged prescription form presented by the nurse at Hickeys Pharmacy on Henry Street in Dublin on May 3rd 2017. He was subsequently identified from CCTV footage at the pharmacy by the HSEs area director of mental health nursing in north Dublin, Eileen Kelly who made a formal complaint to the NMBI. The nurse was subsequently questioned by gardai, who also obtained a search warrant for his home. The nurses solicitor, Kristy Kavanagh, accepted her clients actions represented professional misconduct and a breach of the Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for nurses. The committee also heard that the nurse had pleaded guilty at a sitting of Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in February 2020 to forgery of a prescription and four counts of theft for which he was given a suspended nine-month prison sentence. Advertisement However, Ms Kavanagh said her client did not accept the claim by the NMBI that he had a medical disability due to a history of hypnotic use disorder. A consultant psychiatrist, Colin OGara, who was called as an expert witness by the NMBI, said he had met the nurse in July 2022 and believed he met the criteria for being classified as having a medical disability. Under cross-examination by Ms Kavanagh, Prof OGara accepted that there was no automatic reason why someone with an addiction should not be able to return to work. Prof OGara said the nurse met the definition for having a medical disability but did not display related clinical symptoms. Thats the difficulty, Prof OGara observed. In evidence, the man, who has worked as a nurse since 1991, said his addiction had affected his relationship with his family and other people as well as having a financial impact. I feel I left everyone down, he remarked. Ireland Pilot scheme to offer free counselling in primary... Read More The man who described himself as a very caring person told the inquiry: I miss working as a nurse. I miss it a lot. He added: Ive learnt my lesson. I just want to move on. The nurse said he would be willing to fund the cost of random drug testing on him as a safeguard measure. The FTP committee said it would announce its findings in due course. The owner of land up for sale at Dublin Airport has said there is a lot of interest in the plot. The McEvaddy brothers and some other landowners are selling 260 acres. Director of Dublin Airport Terminal 3 ltd, Ulick McEvaddy, said he's given up hope of building a third terminal there. He still believes it is the right place to build a new facility. Mr McEvaddy told Newstalk: "Look, what they need to do is build a motorway from the M2 into the centre of the site, build [terminal] three at the end of that motorway, opening up four kilometres for development on either side of the motorway. It's a huge development. Mr McEvaddy said he would be happy to do business with Dublin Airport operator Daa, along with the other owners, or anyone who can succeed in building a third terminal. Advertisement He said this is in the national interest. "We're not going to be extortionists; the national interest [is what] we've always been about. We're infrastructure people, we believe in good infrastructure. "We've seen good infrastructure around the world and what's in Dublin is inadequate for the future. So yes, we would do business with the DAA, or somebody else who wants to build a proper terminal there. "All that land is agricultural land right now, in agricultural use, and it's a greenfield site for a proper Terminal 3." A number of roads in Belfast city centre have been closed due to a large fire. Firefighters were called to the blaze at a derelict building in Samuel Street in the early hours of Wednesday. The operation to douse the flames included six fire engines, two aerial appliances and 40 firefighters. NIFRS were called to a derelict building fire at Samuel Street Belfast 0240hrs on Wed 31 May. There are 6 Fire Appliances 2 Aerial Appliances & Command Support, 40 Firefighters & 8 Officers. Local residents are requested to keep windows closed. The incident is currently ongoing. pic.twitter.com/OZe1SdTUn7 Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (@NIFRSOFFICIAL) May 31, 2023 Closed roads include North Street, Millfield, Union Street, Royal Avenue, Gresham Street and Winetavern Street. Advertisement Gardai have arrested three men following a high speed chase in south Dublin this afternoon. Shortly after 1pm this afternoon a car failed to stop for gardai when directed to do so which led to a high speed chase. The car was involved in a road traffic collision with a motorcycle in the Rathfarnham area. The motorcyclist was taken to Tallaght Hospital to be treated for their injuries. The car failed to remain at the scene. The car later came to a stop at a location in the Tallaght area. It was involved in a collision with an official Garda Vehicle at this location. The occupants of the vehicle, two men, aged in their 20s and late teens, and a male juvenile were arrested. A woman was also arrested at the scene for public order offences. Advertisement The three arrested males are currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, at Garda Stations in South Dublin. People line up in front of Seoul Station to ride a taxi, Jan. 30. Newsis By Ko Dong-hwan The Seoul city government's recently toughened rules against ill-mannered taxi drivers to penalize first-time offenders, in a move the authority hopes will improve the public transport environment for local commuters as well as foreign visitors to the city. The three-strikes policy on private taxi operators started last February when the Seoul Metropolitan Government introduced new regulations for both private and corporate taxi operators registered in the city. From February to April of this year, three passengers who rode in a self-employed driver's taxi each contacted the city's grievance report hotline called Dasan Call Center 120 and filed complaints. They reported the driver was rude to them, engaged in a verbal argument and refused to take a route specifically requested by the passengers. Maeng Joo-seong, a Taxi Policy Division official under the city government's City Transportation Office, told The Korea Times that the offender is a male and in his 60s, an age group most of the city's cabbies belong to. "We are currently hearing explanations from him right now," Maeng said. "The penalization against him begins in early June." The penalty includes mandatory participation in an ethics lesson for four hours and a six month-freeze on his monthly subsidy from the city government. The authority has been providing him and other private operators with 2,500 won ($2.00) each month. For corporate operators, penalization gets handed down when customers' reports amount to 10. They are subjected to two month-freeze on the city subsidy of 5,000 won per month. Bad-tempered taxi drivers have been under the city authority's watchful eyes, but the measure has been "extremely ineffective," the authority said. All of the reports were the subjective views of complainants and needed further investigation by the city authority to verify each filed complaint. Most of the reports, furthermore, did not have hard evidence to prove the drivers' offenses. Seoul city government officials halt a taxi after catching it refusing to let in potential customers in this December 2017 photo. Korea Times file Last year, only 1.1 percent of the grievance reports against taxi drivers in Seoul led to the authority meting out punishments charging a 100,000 won fine. To raise awareness among the city's taxi drivers about minding their manners in front of customers, the city government last February pushed ahead with the revision of laws under the country's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. The city authority looked to revise the country's Law of Development of Taxi Industry and Passenger Transport Service Act to clamp down on offenders. Should the revision pass the National Assembly, the country will introduce the new laws to prosecute taxi operators with harsher punishment including business suspensions for at least a month, fines starting from 200,000 won and the revocation of business licenses. In 2022 there were over 13,000 grievance reports from taxi users. Most were about fare overcharging (4,030), while other major complaints included rude cab drivers (3,921), refusing to accept customers (2,921) and asking passengers to get off before reaching destinations (713). Drivers who smoked inside their cabs, demanded cash-only payments, failed to display a taxi license inside and failed to keep passenger seats clean were among the minor complaints filed by passengers. The city government said, however, that the revision's passage does not mean more convenient methods of charging taxi operators with offenses. Verification of the offenses, the authority said, should not be based solely on testimonies from the victims, but still requires evidence to protect wrongfully accused taxi drivers. The authority said it will comprehensively assess what is stated in grievance reports and what accused taxi operators have to say before deciding on punitive measures. "Complaints from taxi customers have been gradually down over the past years but we should keep our eyes open," Yoon Jong-jang, chief of the City Transportation Office, said. "First, we will settle the new strike-out system for taxi operators and keep the drivers alerted regarding how to treat their customers." Two Americans accused of unlawfully importing 600,000 of cannabis from the United States to Ireland via Dublin Airport have been remanded in custody. At approximately 1pm on Monday, airport customs personnel seized 30kg of the drug in two suitcases. Gardai from Ballymun Drugs Unit arrested Phung Sien Tran, 41, at the airport and co-accused Chavy Oeun, 37, in a south Dublin hotel later that day. Both were detained under Drugs Trafficking legislation at a Garda Station, charged and held pending their appearances before Judge Ciaran Liddy at Dublin District Court on Wednesday. They are accused of unlawful importation of cannabis, unlawful possession and having the drug for sale or supply contrary to the Misuse of Drugs Act. The pair have no addresses in Ireland but are from Washington State in the US. They "made no reply" when charged and did not address the court. Advertisement Garda Pierce O'Dwyer objected to Ms Oeun's bail due to "obvious" flight risk concerns. He told the court it was alleged the co-defendant was caught red-handed with the cannabis in his luggage. It was claimed he was on his way to meet Ms Oeun at the Clayton Hotel in Dublin 4. Her hotel room was searched, and her phone and $3780 (3,545) were seized, the court was told. Garda O'Dwyer said the accused had no connections to Ireland or address or relatives here. The contested bail hearing was told that she was due to return to the United States on a flight hooked for Wednesday. Her solicitor David Bassett submitted it would take time to get the Director of Public Prosecutions directions and the cannabis seizure analysed. He said his client had the presumption of innocence and argued that the garda's concerns could be met with conditions. He told the court that a member of his client's family was due to come to Ireland to provide her with support and accommodation. He submitted that her passport had been seized, and she would undertake not to look for a replacement and sign on at a Garda station as often as asked. However, Judge Liddy had concerns she would not appear for her trial. He held there was a flight risk and declined bail. Garda Tanya Shinken objected to Mr Tran's bail on the same grounds. However, defence solicitor Eoghan O'Sullivan said Mr Tran was not making an application at this stage. They were granted legal aid, remanded in custody pending directions from the DPP and will appear again in court next week. Britains future is outside the EU, UK Labour leader Keir Starmer has said, as he promised to make Brexit work. Writing in the Daily Express newspaper, Mr Starmer who campaigned for Remain in the 2016 referendum also said he would not be seeking a return to freedom of movement. The comments are Mr Starmers latest pitch to Brexit-backing voters ahead of the next UK general election, with the Labour leader promising to improve on the UK-EU deal reached by Boris Johnson. As British prime minister Rishi Sunak heads to the European Political Community summit in Moldova this week, the Labour leader said the subject of fixing the Trade and Co-operation Agreement between the UK and the EU must be high up the agenda. If we are to make Brexit work, we need a government with the vision and the focus to deliver it, he wrote. Advertisement As Rishi Sunak heads off to meet with Emmanuel Macron on Thursday, there are no signs that he or his Government have any proper plan to deliver that better future for our country. Britains future is outside the EU. Not in the single market, not in the customs union, not with a return to freedom of movement. Those arguments are in the past, where they belong. Mr Starmer said that the current deal between London and Brussels is paper-thin, arguing that it had stifled Britains potential and hugely weighted trade terms towards the EU. We need to act now. New border controls coming in at the end of the year will further restrict trade, damaging businesses and households. There is a deal to be done that makes good on the British peoples desire to maintain Britains high food and animal welfare standards and prevent the burden of bureaucratic red tape. It could save our importers hundreds of millions of pounds a year. Whether it is working with European neighbours to tackle criminal gangs and stop dangerous boat crossings, or driving down the price of food for hard-pressed British families, there is huge potential for change. Thats why we should be optimistic. Advertisement Every one of the problems I have outlined can be fixed from outside the EU. But it will require hard work, good relations and above all honesty. Labour has long accused the UK government of failing to secure a good Brexit deal with the EU. Shadow finance minister Rachel Reeves used a visit to Washington earlier this month to suggest that the current Brexit deal would be reviewed under a Labour government by 2025. Pretending everything is going fine or ducking hard conversations will see Britain miss opportunities and slip behind our competitors, he said. If we are to get this right, Rishi Sunak must face up to the truth that the Tories have got this wrong. Failure to do the hard yards needed right those wrongs will mean the Tories fail to deliver for Britain and fail to deliver on the promise of Brexit. Ron DeSantis was making a four-stop blitz through Iowa during his first full day of presidential campaigning on Wednesday, aiming for a personal connection with voters while intensifying his criticism of former US president Donald Trump. The Florida governors first stop was the floor of Port Neal Welding in Salix, a rural town near Sioux City, in the heart of the most Republican-heavy part of the state. Mr DeSantis talked up his efforts to push his state further to the right. Trying to position himself as the most formidable alternative to Donald Trump in the crowded Republican White House primary field, Mr DeSantis did not mention the former president by name in Salix. But he said the Bible emphasised the importance of being humble, adding that the country needed leaders who knew how to show humility. Advertisement The tired dogmas of the past are inadequate for a vibrant future. We have to look forward, Mr DeSantis said. We cant look backwards. We must have the courage to lead and we must have the strength to win. He later sat with his wife, Casey, among hydraulic lifts and long welding tables. They just seem very down to earth, said Bev Lessman, 70, a retired teacher from Sioux City. After speaking, Mr DeSantis walked through the audience and Ms Lessman wrapped her arms around his neck and told the governor she could feel what seemed to her to be the governors Christian devotion. I told him we cant make others live it, but I appreciated how he expressed his faith, she said later. He replied, But we can model it, she said. There was a connection, she added. Mr DeSantis has subsequent appearances on Wednesday in Council Bluffs, Pella and Cedar Rapids as he holds a string of early events in the state where caucuses kick off the Republican presidential primary voting. From there, he will head to New Hampshire on Thursday and South Carolina on Friday two other states that vote early on the GOP primary calendar. Advertisement Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis talks with his wife Casey, left, during a campaign event in Salix, Iowa (Charlie Neibergall/AP/PA) After months of speculation, Mr DeSantis launched his campaign with a glitch-filled online kickoff last week and held his first official Iowa event on Tuesday night before an energetic crowd of roughly 500 in a suburban Des Moines church. He did not mention Mr Trump during his remarks, but speaking to reporters afterwards, he pushed back against the former president. Mr DeSantis accused Mr Trump of essentially abandoning America First principles on immigration, supporting coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns and generally having moved left on key issues. The governor is opening his campaign behind Mr Trump in the polls. Kate Romano, 60, of Indianola, Iowa, said she was more impressed by DeSantis than she expected during his Tuesday night appearance, calling him energetic and fun to hear. She said she voted reluctantly for Mr Trump in 2016 and 2020, and is interested in hearing from other candidates. I liked to hear that hell stand up to Trump, she said. Ron DeSantis addresses a campaign event at Port Neal Welding in Salix, Iowa (Charlie Neibergall/AP/PA) Kim Riesberg, 59, said she, too, voted twice for Mr Trump but is not necessarily committed to him this time. Mr Trump and his allies have unleashed a fresh round of anti-DeSantis attacks, sharing new polls finding the former president is the heavy favourite in the GOP race and taking aim at Mr DeSantiss leadership during the pandemic. Advertisement Mr Trump, who was already scheduled to be in Iowa on Thursday, added stops in the state to his schedule for Wednesday, ensuring he would overlap with Mr DeSantis for a time. Mr Trump will tape a radio appearance in Des Moines before attending a GOP legislative dinner. Chinas industry minister has met Tesla CEO Elon Musk to discuss the development of electric and intelligent networked vehicles, officials in Beijing said. Mr Musk joined a series of CEOs from global companies including Apple who have met Chinese cabinet officials this year following the lifting of anti-virus controls. The ruling Communist Party is trying to revive investor interest in Chinas slowing economy and reassure companies which have been rattled by anti-monopoly and data-security crackdowns, raids on consulting firms, US-Chinese political tension and pressure to align their plans with the ruling partys economic development goals. Industry minister Jin Zhuanglong and Mr Musk exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent networked vehicles, Chinas ministry of industry and information technology said on its website. Advertisement Elon Musk meets Chinas Foreign Minister Qin Gang (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Peoples Republic of China via AP) China accounts for half of all global electric vehicle sales and is the site of Teslas first factory outside the United States. On Tuesday, foreign minister Qin Gang told Mr Musk that China will unswervingly promote high-level opening up and create a market-oriented, law-based and internationalised business environment, according to a government statement. Chinas development is an opportunity for the world, the statement added. Li Qiang, Chinas premier, delivered a similar message of reassurance in meetings in March with CEOs Tim Cook of Apple, Albert Bourla of Pfizer, Jakob Stausholm of Rio Tinto and Toshiaki Higashihara of Hitachi. Mr Musk is one of several high profile CEOs to visit China since virus controls were eased (Pool Photo via AP) Foreign minister Mr Qin told Mr Musk that Chinas EV market has broad prospects for development, according to the ministry statement. Tesla opened the first wholly foreign-owned vehicle factory in China in 2019 after Beijing eased ownership restrictions to increase competition and speed up industry development. The Chinese statement cited Mr Musk as saying Tesla was willing to expand its business in China and opposes decoupling a reference to fears the world may split into multiple markets with incompatible products. Mr Musk is also the majority owner of social media platform Twitter, access to which is blocked in China by the ruling partys internet filters. Hundreds of ethnic Serbs have gathered in a town in northern Kosovo, days after clashes that injured 30 soldiers from a Nato-led peacekeeping force and more than 50 Serbs. The incident has provoked fears of a renewal of the regions bloody conflicts and prompted the Western military alliance to send in additional troops. The Serbs reiterated that they want the Kosovo special police and ethnic Albanian officials they call fake mayors to withdraw from northern Kosovo. The crowd then spread a huge Serbian flag. The United States strongly condemns yesterdays attacks against @NATO led Kosovo Force (KFOR) peacekeepers, and urges both sides to take immediate actions to de-escalate tensions and to recommit to EU-led normalization talks. Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) May 30, 2023 Wednesdays protest outside the city hall in Zvecan, 28 miles north of the capital, Pristina, was peaceful as of late Wednesday morning. Advertisement On Monday, ethnic Serbs tried to storm municipal offices and fought with both Kosovo police and the peacekeepers. Serbs are a minority in Kosovo, but a majority in parts of the countrys north bordering Serbia. Many reject the Albanian-majority territorys claim of independence from Serbia. A former province of Serbia, Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence is also not recognised by Belgrade. The United States and the European Union have recently stepped up efforts to resolve the dispute as the war rages in Ukraine. People hold a giant Serbian flag during a protest in front of the city hall in the town of Zvecan (AP) Nato said it will send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests after the clashes on Monday. The Nato-led peacekeeping mission, KFor, currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. US secretary of state Antony Blinken urged all parties to take immediate actions to de-escalate tensions. Mr Blinken described violence against soldiers from the multinational force known as KFor as unacceptable. A German government spokesperson said Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron plan to meet with the leaders of Serbia and Kosovo on Thursday. Spokesman Steffen Hebestreit told reporters in Berlin that the meeting will take place on the sidelines of the European Political Community meeting in Chisinau, Moldova. Advertisement The confrontation first unfolded last week after ethnic Albanian officials, who were elected in a vote that Serbs overwhelmingly boycotted, entered municipal buildings to take office with an escort of Kosovo police. KFor soldiers place a barbed wire in front of the city hall in the town of Zvecan (AP) When Serbs tried to block the officials, Kosovo police fired tear gas to disperse them. In Zvecan on Monday, angry Serbs again clashed first with the police and later with Nato-led troops who tried to secure the area. Speaking at an international security forum in Bratislava, Slovakia, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said Kosovo police will not accept the Serbs demands for a complete withdrawal, but hinted at the possibility of early local elections. As long as there is a violent mob outside the municipal buildings, we must have our special units, he said. If there would have been peaceful protests asking for early election, that would attract my attention and perhaps I would consider that request. Mr Kurti also suggested that Russia may have a hand in the latest flareup, pointing to protesters who do graffiti with letter Z, showing admiration for despotic President Putin and for the Russian military aggression and invasion in Ukraine. Advertisement Russia is a close Serbian ally although Belgrade populist leaders claim to be seeking European Union membership. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday that Moscow is monitoring the situation in Kosovo and spoke in support of the Serbs. We are following that, we are unconditionally supporting Serbia, supporting the Serbs, Mr Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. We believe that all legitimate rights and interests of Kosovo Serbs must be observed and ensured. Serbia has put the countrys military on its highest state of alert and sent more troops to the border with Kosovo. Hundreds of ethnic Serbs are gathering in front of the city hall in their repeated efforts to take over the offices of one of the municipalities where ethnic Albanian mayors took up their posts last week (AP) While Washington and most EU nations recognise Kosovos statehood, Belgrade has the backing of Russia and China in rejecting it. Western officials have sharply criticised both Kosovos authorities for pushing to install the newly-elected mayors, and Serbs because of the violence. Serbian officials have repeatedly warned that Serbia would not stand idle if Serbs in Kosovo come under attack. The 1998-1999 war in Kosovo erupted when ethnic Albanian separatists launched a rebellion against Serbia, which responded with a brutal crackdown. The war ended after Nato bombing forced Serbia to pull out of the territory, and paved the way for the deployment of Nato-led peacekeepers. Advertisement The Balkan region is still reckoning with the aftermath of a series of bloody conflicts in the 1990s during the bloody breakup of the former country of Yugoslavia. On Wednesday, United Nations judges imposed increased sentences for two allies of former Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic, who were convicted of an attempt to drive non-Serbs out of towns in Croatia and Bosnia during the wars in the 1990s. Milosevic also led Serbia during its 1998-1999 war in Kosovo. Britain's Prince Harry is expected to return to the UK to give evidence in the latest of his legal battles against British newspaper publishers. Harry will be in London next week for a UK High Court trial, just over a month after he attended the coronation of his father King Charles. He will take to the witness box in the trial brought alongside other high-profile figures seeking damages from Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) over alleged unlawful information gathering including phone hacking at its titles. Harry returned to the UK to see his father crowned (Ben Stansall/PA) It is thought to be the first time a senior member of the royal family has personally appeared in court proceedings since 2002, when Princess Anne pleaded guilty to a charge under the Dangerous Dogs Act after her pet bit two children in Windsor Great Park. Harry's visit to see Charles being crowned was his first public appearance alongside the British royal family since he criticised his relatives in his controversial memoir Spare. Advertisement Within hours of the historic ceremony, Harry was on a plane back to California to be reunited with wife Meghan, daughter Lilibet and son Archie, who turned four on the day of the coronation, May 6th. The Sussexes made headlines a short while later when a spokesperson alleged the couple and Meghans mother were involved in a near-catastrophic car chase at the hands of a ring of highly aggressive paparazzi, after the trio attended an awards ceremony in New York where Meghan was honoured. A spokesperson for Meghan and Harry alleged they were involved in a near-catastrophic car chase with paparazzi (Matt Dunham/PA) MGN, publisher of the Daily Mirror, Sunday Mirror and Sunday People, is contesting claims brought by Harry and others over allegations that its journalists were linked to voicemail interception, securing information through deception and hiring private investigators for unlawful activities. Harry is one of four representative claimants whose cases have been selected for the trial. The others are Coronation Street actors Michael Turner and Nikki Sanderson and comedian Paul Whitehouses ex-wife Fiona Wightman. Harry is due to attend court for the opening of his case against MGN on Monday, and is expected to enter the witness box on Tuesday. His relationship with the king and his brother Prince William are strained and Harry is unlikely to spend time with his relatives during what is expected to be a brief visit to London. Advertisement It is thought Harry still has use of Frogmore Cottage in Berkshire, before the Sussexes must vacate the property, but it is not known if he will use it. Harry now lives in Montecito, California, with Meghan and their children after the couple stepped down as working royals for a life of financial independence. Boris Johnson has handed his unredacted WhatsApp messages and notebooks to the UK Cabinet Office. The former British prime minister called on the UK government to urgently disclose the material to the Covid-19 inquiry. The Cabinet Office had claimed it did not have access to Mr Johnsons WhatsApp messages and private notebooks, which were demanded by inquiry chairwoman Baroness Hallett. UK ministers have so far objected to the release of unambiguously irrelevant material. The inquiry has set a deadline of 4pm on Thursday to hand over Mr Johnsons messages, notebooks and official diaries, having granted a 48-hour extension on Tuesday. A spokesman for Mr Johnson said all the material requested by the Covid inquiry had been handed to the Cabinet Office and should be disclosed to Baroness Hallett. Advertisement All Boris Johnsons material including WhatsApps and notebooks requested by the Covid inquiry has been handed to the Cabinet Office in full and in unredacted form, the spokesman said on Wednesday. Mr Johnson urges the Cabinet Office to urgently disclose it to the inquiry. The Cabinet Office has had access to this material for several months. Mr Johnson would immediately disclose it directly to the inquiry if asked. While Mr Johnson understands the Governments position, and does not seek to contradict it, he is perfectly happy for the inquiry to have access to this material in whatever form it requires. Mr Johnson co-operated with the inquiry in full from the beginning of this process and continues to do so. Indeed, he established the inquiry. He looks forward to continuing to assist the inquiry with its important work. The decision by Mr Johnson to hand over the material will add to pressure on the Cabinet Office, with Downing Street already forced to deny allegations of a cover-up amid criticism over the public row with the inquiry. Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak in February 2022. Photo: Gareth Fuller/PA. Whitehall officials are concerned about setting a precedent by handing over all the requested documents in unredacted form, rather than deciding what material is relevant and should be submitted to the inquiry. Advertisement Refusing to comply with the request to hand over the documents which include text conversations between Mr Johnson and a host of government figures including UK prime minister Rishi Sunak could lead to a court battle with the official inquiry. World People losing tens of thousands due to fake celebr... Read More But Whitehall officials hope that a compromise can be reached before the 4pm deadline to avoid the need for a damaging legal fight with the inquiry set up to examine the pandemic and the UK governments response. Work and pensions secretary Mel Stride had earlier told Sky News we absolutely intend to continue to be absolutely transparent and candid and the UK government had already provided 55,000 documents, eight witness statements and corporate witness statements to the inquiry. The inquiry is still expected to wait for the Cabinet Office response, ahead of Thursdays deadline. Russian air defences stopped eight drones converging on Moscow, officials said on Tuesday, in an attack that authorities blamed on Ukraine. The attack came as Russia pursued its relentless bombardment of Kyiv with a third assault on the city in 24 hours. President Vladimir Putin called it a terrorist act by Kyiv. The Russian defence ministry said five drones were shot down and the systems of three others were jammed, causing them to veer off course. The attack brought the war home to civilians in Russias capital for the first time. The attack caused insignificant damage to several buildings, Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin said. Two people received medical attention for unspecified injuries but did not need hospital treatment, he said in a Telegram post. Residents of two high-rise buildings damaged in the attack were evacuated, Mr Sobyanin said. Advertisement Andrei Vorobyov, governor of the wider Moscow region, said some of the drones were shot down on the approach to Moscow. Ukraine made no immediate comment on the attack, which would be one of its deepest and most daring strikes into Russia since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than 15 months ago. Mr Putin started work early on Tuesday to receive information about the drone attack from various government agencies, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Mr Putin said Moscows air defence worked in a satisfactory way, but added it is clear that our task is to plug the gaps in the system. The Kyiv regime attempts to intimidate Russian citizens and strikes at civilian buildings, he said at a public event, responding to a question from the head of a Kremlin-allied think tank. It is, of course, a clear indication of terrorist activity. Asked by the Associated Press whether there is concern in the Kremlin that the invasion of Ukraine is endangering Russian civilians, Mr Peskov said only that attacks on Russia reinforce the need to prosecute the war. The attacks have raised questions about the effectiveness of Russias air defence systems. Investigators inspect the building in Moscow (AP) Advertisement A senior Russian politician, Andrei Kartapolov, told Russian business news site RBC that we have a very big country and there will always be a loophole where the drone can fly around the areas where air defence systems are located. He said the purpose of the attacks was to unnerve the Russian people. Its an intimidation act aimed at the civilian population, RBC quoted him as saying. Its designed to create a wave of panic. Moscow residents reported hearing explosions before dawn. Police were seen working at one site of a crashed drone in southwest Moscow. An area near a residential building was fenced off, and police put the drone debris in a cardboard box before carrying it away. At another site, windows were shattered and there were scorch marks on the buildings front. The building in Moscow damaged by a drone (AP) It was the second reported attack on Moscow. Russian authorities said two drones targeted the Kremlin earlier this month in what they portrayed as an attempt on President Vladimir Putins life. Ukrainian drones have reportedly flown deep into Russia several times. In December, Russia claimed it had shot down drones at airfields in the Saratov and Ryazan regions. Three soldiers were reported to have been killed in the attack in Saratov, which targeted an important military airfield. Advertisement Earlier, Russia reported shooting down a Ukrainian drone that targeted the headquarters of its Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol in Russia-annexed Crimea. In Ukraine, Russia launched a pre-dawn air raid on Kyiv, killing at least one person and sending the capitals residents again scrambling into shelters. Residents reported hearing explosions (Denis Voronin/Moscow News Agency/AP) At least 20 Shahed explosive drones were destroyed by air defence forces in Kyivs airspace in Russias third attack on the capital in the past 24 hours, according to information from the Kyiv military administration. Overall, Ukraine shot down 29 of 31 drones fired into the country, most in the Kyiv area, the air force later added. Before daylight, the buzzing of drones could be heard over the city, followed by loud explosions as they were taken down by air defence systems. In the overnight attacks on Kyiv, one person died and seven were injured, according to the municipal military administration. A high-rise building in the Holosiiv district caught fire after being hit by debris either from from drones being hit or interceptor missiles. The buildings upper two floors were destroyed, and there may be people under the rubble, the Kyiv military administration said. More than 20 people were evacuated. Advertisement Ukrainian air defences fire at drones in a relentless wave of bombardments targeting Kyiv (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP) Resident Valeriya Oreshko, 39, told The Associated Press in the aftermath that even though the immediate threat was over, the attacks had everyone on edge. You are happy that you are alive, but think about what will happen next, she said. Elsewhere in the capital, falling debris caused a fire in a house in Darnytskyi district and three cars were set alight in Pechersky district, according to the military administration. Ukrainian air defence intercepts a Shahed drone mid-air (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP) The series of attacks that began on Sunday included a rare daylight attack on Monday that left puffs of white smoke in the blue skies. On that day, Russian forces fired 11 ballistic and cruise missiles at Kyiv at about 11.30am, according to Ukraines chief of staff, Valerii Zaluzhnyi. All of them were shot down, he said. Debris from intercepted missiles fell in Kyivs central and northern districts during the morning, landing in the middle of traffic on a city road and also starting a fire on the roof of a building, the Kyiv military administration said. The Russian defence ministry said it launched a series of strikes early Monday targeting Ukrainian air bases with precision long-range air-launched missiles. Advertisement It claimed the strikes destroyed command posts, radars, aircraft and ammunition stockpiles, but did not say anything about hitting cities or other civilian areas. The White House National Security Council noted that Russias bombardment of Kyiv was the 17th round of attacks this month, many of which have devastated civilian areas. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the US was still gathering information about the drone strike but reiterated that as a general matter the US administration does not support Ukraine using American weaponry in Russian territory. We do not support the use of US-made equipment being used for attacks inside of Russia, she said. Weve been very clear about that, and well continue to do that. And we have been clear not just publicly but privately clear with the Ukrainians. She declined to comment on whether administration officials have spoken to Ukraine officials about the Moscow incident. A US defence official said the drone strikes would not not affect the weapons aid packages the US is providing Ukraine to include drone ammunition. The official said the US has committed to supporting Ukraine in its effort to defend the country and Ukraine had committed to not using the systems inside Russia, so the aid would likely continue unchanged. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. The online prankster known as Mizzy has credited Andrew and Tristan Tate with helping him to understand other peoples feelings in a lengthy statement posted online. The teenager, whose real name is Bacari-Bronze OGarro, appeared in court earlier this month accused of entering a familys home as part of a prank and posting the footage on TikTok without their consent. OGarro, 18, from Hackney, east London, was placed under a criminal behaviour order and fined over the video, but was back in court within days accused of breaching the order. He is facing a magistrates court trial in July over accusations that he posted two further videos online without the consent of those featured and visited Westfield shopping centre in Stratford in breach of the order. I know I aint the best with my words but just try to understand and listen to what I have to say. I made a very dumb stupid mistake, a house is supposed to be a safe space where you know you can relax without being in any sort of distress and me walking into that house was a pic.twitter.com/40iFdNdaJb Advertisement mizzy (@mizzyisbanned) May 31, 2023 On Wednesday, OGarro said on Twitter that he had apologised to the family and admitted he had made a very dumb stupid mistake by entering their home. He said his online persona Mizzy was a social media character he created, and ended up getting out of hand. I decided to go all out beast mode on this Mizzy Character and up the ante on the pranks until I eventually got sucked so into this Mizzy character and I basically forgot who Bacari was, he said. The teenager went on to credit Tristan Tate, brother of Andrew Tate, for contacting him amid the controversy. The Tate Brothers have been helping me immensely, teaching me to actually take peoples feelings in and hold more accountability for my actions as I develop into a man. Entertainment Stars of Ted Lasso join Los Angeles picket lines t... Read More They are also showing me that I can accomplish what I want in ways that wont make me look like a villain and in the process also help others. The Tate brothers are under house arrest in Romania on suspicion of organised crime and human trafficking. Former kickboxer Andrew Tate, who has lived in Romania since 2017, was previously banned from various social media platforms for expressing misogynistic views and hate speech. The world is fortunate a nuclear accident has not happened in Ukraine, the UN nuclear chief said on Tuesday. Rafael Grossi asked Moscow and Kyiv to commit to preventing any attack on Europes largest nuclear power plant and make other pledges to avoid the danger of a catastrophic incident. Mr Grossi reiterated to the UN Security Council what he told the International Atomic Energy Agencys (IAEA) board of governors in March: We are rolling a dice and if this continues then one day our luck will run out. The IAEA director general said avoiding a nuclear accident is possible if five principles are observed at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, where fighting on seven occasions, most recently last week, disrupted critical power supplies, the last line of defence against a nuclear accident. Advertisement Mr Grossi respectfully and solemnly asked Ukraine and Russia to observe the principles, saying IAEA experts at Zaporizhzhia will start monitoring and he will publicly report on any violations: Ban attacks from or against the plant, especially targeting reactors and spent fuel storage areas. Ban the storage of heavy weapons or presence of military personnel that could be used for an attack. Ensure the security of an uninterrupted off-site power supply to the plant. Protect all structures, systems and components essential to the plants operation from attacks or acts of sabotage. Take no action to undermine these principles. Mr Grossi asked the 15 Security Council members to support the five principles, stressing that they are to no ones detriment and to everyones benefit. The Kremlins forces took over the plant after Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky opposes any proposal that would legitimise Russias control. This undated file photo provided by Naver shows a service disruption notice on its online portal. Yonhap Online portal Naver's mobile webpage suffered a brief service disruption Wednesday after North Korea launched what seemed to be a space launch vehicle. Access to Naver's mobile page was unstable or the service page did not open for about five minutes from 6:43 a.m. to 6:48 a.m., according to Naver. The service disruption came minutes after the Seoul city government sent out an emergency alert text message to citizens to prepare for evacuation at 6:41 a.m., shortly after North Korea fired what appeared to be a space launch vehicle. Naver said it was associated with high traffic over the short period as a growing number of people had tried to access the mobile version of the country's largest portal site seeking for more information. "We've dealt with the problem and now it is working well," an official from Naver said, adding that its web version did not experience such a spike in traffic. The Seoul Metropolitan Government later sent a separate message to say the previous alert had been sent by mistake. (Yonhap) Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, who advised Donald Trump's White House campaign in 2016 only to become a vocal critic of the former US president in recent months, will launch a bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination next week, a person familiar with the matter said. Mr Christie, 60, enters the race as a decided underdog, six years after his 2016 presidential campaign failed to gain traction amid a crowded field that included Mr Trump. Only 1 per cent of Republicans said he would be their preferred nominee in a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted May 9th-15th. Ending weeks of speculation about his intentions, Mr Christie will officially launch his campaign at a town hall at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire on Tuesday, the person familiar with the matter said, confirming an earlier report by Axios. Advertisement Mr Christie has urged his party to move on from Mr Trump's baseless claims that the 2020 election was rigged, including in his book "Republican Rescue". That stance could theoretically earn him some support from moderate Republicans eager to turn the page, though it will alienate Mr Trump's still-powerful base of voters. In March, Mr Christie told Axios he would not vote for Mr Trump in 2024 even if the former president was the Republican nominee. In public appearances, Mr Christie, a former federal prosecutor, has argued he alone has the skill and the willingness to go toe-to-toe with the pugnacious Trump directly, in contrast to other potential rivals such as former vice president Mike Pence and Florida governor Ron DeSantis who have mostly sidestepped confrontation. "As we all know here in New Jersey, the governor is a proven leader who fearlessly tells it like it is. He's never hesitated to confront the most challenging issues head on," Bill Palatucci, a longtime Christie advisor who will chair a super PAC supporting his candidacy, wrote in a message to New Jersey Republican state committee members on Tuesday. Mr Christie has played the role of attack dog before: in a memorable presidential debate appearance shortly before he ended his 2016 campaign, Mr Christie mocked US senator Marco Rubio for memorising his lines, a performance widely seen as irreparably damaging to Mr Rubio's campaign. Advertisement A former Donald Trump ally, Chris Christie is now a vocal critic of the former US president. Photo: Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images A two-term governor from a Democratic-leaning state, the brash and charismatic Mr Christie was once viewed as a rising Republican star who held rare cross-party appeal. But his second term in office was tarnished by the only-in-New Jersey "Bridgegate" scandal, in which two of his aides were accused of deliberately closing lanes at the heavily trafficked George Washington Bridge to New York city to punish a local mayor who refused to endorse his re-election campaign. Mr Christie's relationship with Mr Trump and his family has taken a winding path. As the US attorney for New Jersey, he prosecuted Charles Kushner, the father of Mr Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, for tax evasion and other crimes. He and Mr Trump exchanged plenty of barbs during the early stages of the 2016 campaign. But just weeks after dropping out of the race, Mr Christie endorsed Mr Trump over other rivals, giving his candidacy a boost at a critical juncture. While he served as a campaign adviser, Mr Christie became a political liability late in the race, when witnesses testified during the criminal trial of his aides that he knew of the bridge lane closures at the time. Mr Christie has denied knowing about the plot until afterward. Nevertheless, he was passed over first for vice president and later for attorney general. Three days after Mr Trump's surprise victory, Mr Christie was fired as the head of Mr Trump's White House transition team. Since the January 6th, 2021, attack on the US Capitol by a mob of Trump supporters, Mr Christie has jabbed at Mr Trump on numerous occasions. He blamed the former president for the Republicans' disappointing showing in the 2022 midterm elections and called Mr Trump's conduct "unacceptable" after a federal jury found Mr Trump liable for sexually abusing the writer E Jean Carroll in the 1990s. Mr Christie was also a candidate for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination but was beaten by eventual nominee Mitt Romney. The US coast guard said Tuesday that its searching for a man who fell from a cruise ship off the coast of Florida. The 35-year-old passenger fell from the Carnival Magic ship about 185 miles (300 kilometres) east of Jacksonville on Monday, the service said in a statement. The coast guard is searching from the air and water. The coast guard said it had spent nearly 20 hours searching more than 4,000 square miles by Tuesday afternoon. The search by air was scheduled to pause at sunset, while ships would continue looking for the man throughout Tuesday night. The mans companion reported him missing late on Monday afternoon, the statement said. Security footage on the ship shows that the man leaned over the railing of his stateroom balcony and dropped into the water around 4am, according to the statement. Advertisement Carnival said the coast guard released the ship from search efforts and told the captain to head back to port in Norfolk, Virginia. The ship can hold nearly 4,000 guests and is about 1,000 feet (300 metres) long. An unprecedented string of wildfires in Canadas Atlantic coast province of Nova Scotia continued to burn out of control for a fourth day on Wednesday, prompted the evacuation of 18,000 people. Fire officials were hoping for a break in the dry, windy weather, but thats not forecast to happen until Friday night at the earliest. Firefighters worked through the night to extinguish hotspots in a fire that started in the Halifax area on Sunday, deputy fire chief David Meldrum said. He said it was too early to give an exact count of homes destroyed, but the municipal government put the toll at about 200 buildings. Mr Meldrum made it clear that none of the 16,000 evacuees from the suburbs around Halifax will be able to return home for now. Another 2,000 people who fled a much larger uncontained fire in southwestern Nova Scotia also are being kept away from their properties. Advertisement Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston announced the province would be banning all travel and activity in all wooded areas as of 4pm local time (8pm BST). A representative from the Canadian Red Cross at an evacuation centre where food and shelter is being provided for those forced from their homes (The Canadian Press via AP) The ban applies to all forestry, mining, hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, off-road vehicle driving and all commercial activity on government lands. Were in a very serious situation in this province, and we need to take the steps that we can to protect Nova Scotia, Mr Houston told a news conference via a video call from Shelburne, Nova Scotia, where the provinces largest wildfire has been burning since the weekend. I wanted to get a sense of the damage here. Its extensive. Its heart-breaking. Dan Cavanaugh was among two dozen people waiting Tuesday in a Halifax-area parking lot to learn if their suburban homes had been consumed by the wildfire. Were like everyone else in this lot, said the 48-year-old insurance adjuster. Were not sure if we have a house to go back to or the extent of the damages. Advertisement Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated The Canadian Press via AP) Police officers were writing down the names of residents and calling people to be escorted to see what had become of their properties. Sarah Lyon of the Nova Scotia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said an eight-member team was preparing to head out into the evacuation zone to retrieve animals left behind. In all, about 16,000 people have been ordered to leave their homes north-west of Halifax, most of which are within a 30-minute drive of the port city. The area under mandatory evacuation orders covers about 38 miles. Sonya Higgins said she and more than 40 others waited in a nearby supermarket parking lot to be led into the evacuation area, in hopes of retrieving seven cats from two homes. Ms Higgins runs a cat rescue operation in Halifax, and she says the pet owners contacting her are frantic to find their animals and get them to a safe place. Earlier in the day, fire officials said that with the return of dry, windy conditions on Tuesday, there could be a reburn in the evacuated subdivisions. The extended forecast predicted hotter weather on Wednesday and no rain until Friday at the earliest. Online medical clinics will be effectively banned from prescribing drugs to patients their GPs have never spoken to in a regulatory crackdown on tick and flick medicine. The Medical Board of Australia announced on Wednesday it was instructing doctors not to prescribe medicine via quizzes, text or email when they had never spoken with the patient. That model has become popular at start-ups such as InstantScripts, Eucalyptus and Mosh, which used it to attract customers who enjoyed the convenience. Online doctor shops have been allowed to prescribe via written forms, until now. Credit: Tanya Macheda Board chair Dr Anne Tonkin said that telehealth, which surged in popularity during the pandemic, was here to stay and important to patients struggling to get to a doctor, including people in remote areas. But she said there was a gap between online drug companies and good medicine that algorithms could not breach. A doctor who has not consulted directly with the patient and does not have access to their medical records is unable to exercise good, safe clinical judgment, Tonkin said in a statement. An artists impression of the Southland development, which includes a bridge across the Nepean Highway. In a move that has significantly changed Victorian Government policy on planning and development, the Planning Minister, Mr Rob Maclellan, yesterday approved regional shopping centre developments worth about $500 million. First published in The Age on June 2, 1993 Retailers, developers, councils and property industry leaders generally welcomed the announcement, under which the Chadstone, Northland and Southland shopping centres will expand by more than 100,000 square metres, or about two per cent of the citys total retail space. Chadstone, which will have a 46,000-square-metre expansion, and Northland, which will be extended by 19,000 square metres, are owned by the Gandel Group. The Westfield Group owns Southland, where 42,000 square metres will be added. The Southland and Chadstone developments will cost about $200 million each and the Northland project about $100 million. Mr Maclellan said the new projects were also expected to create possibly thousands of new jobs in the construction and retail industries over the next four years. He said he did not believe the regional centre developments would threaten suburban shopping strips or the retail business of the Central Business District. The co-founder and former chief executive of infant formula maker Bubs Australia will lead an attempt to spill the companys board. Kristy Carr and a group of Bubs shareholders launched the Save our Bubs group on Wednesday, calling on other investors to support their moves to install a new leadership team including chief executive Peter Nathan, the former chief executive of a2 Milk in Australia. Bubs co-founder Kristy Carr said in a video message that she had grave concerns about the company while in the current boards hands. Credit: Louise Trerise The bid for a board spill is another escalation in the stoush at the company after Carr was ousted from her chief executive role earlier this month, with the board citing her failure to comply with reasonable board directions. In a statement on Wednesday afternoon, the Save our Bubs group said the companys current board has attempted to take over Bubs by stealth and without shareholder consultation. Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Get set for the most talked-about new Melbourne CBD bar of the year. The Apollo Inn will soon be on the lips of Melbournes keenest diners: its the name of Andrew McConnells latest project, a petite cocktail bar that he first announced in November and which will open on June 13 in the CBD. Chef Andrew McConnell is about to open a new cocktail bar in the CBD. Josh Robenstone Located just 50 metres from McConnells hugely successful restaurant, Gimlet at Cavendish House, The Apollo Inn was conceived as a younger sibling to that much grander restaurant, borrowing the same Euro DNA and attention to detail, but shrinking them down to pocket-rocket proportions. When the Trader House team announced the new bar, situated at 165 Flinders Lane, the plan was for 28 guests to be able to stop by for oysters, top-shelf jamon and other simple drinking food. James Chessell, Nines managing director of publishing, has welcomed the Federal Courts decision to throw out the defamation case brought by SAS veteran Ben Roberts-Smith as a vindication of award-winning investigative journalists Nick McKenzie and Chris Masters. The court had found The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald were correct in their reporting that Ben Roberts-Smith committed war crimes. Managing director of publishing James Chessell speaks alongside reporters Chris Masters and Nick McKenzie. Credit: James Brickwood Speaking outside court, Chessell said publishing a story of such magnitude was never easy, but high-quality investigative journalism is vital to a thriving democracy. The findings by Justice Anthony Besanko today that Roberts-Smith participated in the execution of [unarmed] Afghans confirms our reports that the Victoria Cross recipient breached the Geneva Convention and is critical step towards justice for the families of the murder victims, Chessell said. Chessell said the decision was also a vindication of the brave soldiers of the Special Air Service who served their country with distinction and then had the courage to speak the truth about what happened in Afghanistan. Todays judgment exemplifies how the exhaustive public interest journalism of The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald serves our community and serves our country. Loading The stories at the centre of the case would have a lasting impact on the Australian Defence Force, he said. While today is a pivotal moment in this story ... the story goes on. We will continue to hold people involved in war crimes to account. McKenzie said it was a day of justice including for the brave men of the SAS who stood up and told the truth about who Ben Roberts-Smith is: a war criminal, a bully and a liar. None of the SAS witnesses wanted to go to court. Ben Roberts-Smith brought this case, he came almost every day. But he did not come today. Hes in Bali, doing whatever hes doing. Masters said the newspapers made a great call in June 2018 to run the first of the stories in the series, and I think it will go down in the history of the news business as one of the great calls. A man accused of making death threats on social media against former political staffer Brittany Higgins and her fiance has fronted court. David William Wonnocott is facing charges after police received information allegedly about threats of violence made through a social media platform. David Wonnocott leaves Tweed Heads Local Court. Credit: AAP Image Wonnocott appeared in a northern NSW court on Wednesday for the first time in connection with the charges since his arrest in April. One condition of Wonnocotts bail is that he is not to be with or contact Higgins or her fiance David Sharaz except through a lawyer, according to court documents. A child is dead and an adult is being treated for serious injuries following a stabbing in Sydneys south-west on Wednesday afternoon. Emergency services rushed to a unit complex in Riverwood about 4pm after receiving a call from a woman who police say is related to the man and a resident of the unit. Emergency services on the scene after a fatal stabbing in Riverwood on Wednesday afternoon. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos A three-year-old boy was found dead inside the Washington Avenue unit by Campsie police. A 45-year-old man, also at the scene, was found with serious injuries. NSW Ambulance paramedics treated him at the scene and he was taken to hospital in a critical condition. Emergency text alerts sent by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety are seen on a mobile phone of a citizen, Wednesday. The Seoul City's message in the bottom advises people to evacuate, while the ministry's message on top says the message sent by the city was a false alert. Korea Times photo by Hong In-ki Citizens confused by different messages by city government, interior ministry By Jun Ji-hye Many Seoul residents were stunned Wednesday morning after receiving an emergency text alert sent by the Seoul Metropolitan Government advising them to prepare for evacuation. The text alert was sent at 6:41 a.m., shortly after North Korea fired toward the south what it claims to be a space launch vehicle. But the message confused residents by simply telling them to prepare for evacuation, without explaining why and where they should go to seek refuge. The country's largest online portal Naver's mobile webpage suffered a brief service disruption for about five minutes from 6:43 a.m. due to high user traffic as many people tried to use the website to obtain more information, according to Naver. At 7:03 a.m., confusion turned into anger as another emergency text message was sent by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, saying the earlier one sent by the Seoul city government was a mistake. At 7:25 a.m., the city government sent another text message advising Seoul residents to return to their normal lives as the alert was lifted in the entire capital area. That did little to appease Seoul residents, many of whom were gripped by fear and confusion for about 40 minutes during the morning. "I was in panic when I received the first text alert from the Seoul city government as there were no guidelines about how to evacuate," said Kim Sang-rok, 36, who runs a consulting company. "I felt more anxiety as Naver's service page did not open. This led me to even think that a war broke out." He said he was very confused in the morning as he was not sure whether he had to go to work or pack a bag to evacuate. Kang Hye-joo, a 33-year-old mother of two children in Seoul's Jungnang District, said she woke her children up and dressed them as soon as she received the text alert. "After that, I looked out of the window to see what was going on, but it was quiet. I didn't know what to do next, while my children were crying after waking up," she said. "It was the worst morning ever." People watch news about North Korea's attempted launch of what it claims to be a "space launch vehicle" at Seoul Station, Wednesday. Yonhap On the Blind app, a communication platform for workers, screenshots were shared of a text alert sent by the Japanese government to people in Okinawa. The screenshots showed that Japan's text alert was sent 10 minutes earlier than the one sent by the Seoul city government, but contained detailed information about why people have to evacuate and where they should go. Amid growing controversy, the office of President Yoon Suk Yeol said the Seoul city government overreacted when it sent the evacuation alert. Still, the interior ministry and the city government were busy blaming each other for the inconsistent emergency messages. The interior ministry said it sent out an emergency alert to residents of Baengnyeong Island and Daecheong Island, near the Northern Limit Line separating the two Koreas on the West Sea, advising residents there to evacuate. Seoul was not affected by this alert. "Both the interior ministry and local governments can send an emergency text alert. In today's case, we did not ask the Seoul city government to send such a message," a ministry official said. The Seoul city government's explanation was different. It said it had received an instruction from the interior ministry to send the alert. "We should send out the alert first before verifying the situation and lift it after everything is clear. This is the procedure in an emergency," an official at the city government said. Later in the day, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon apologized for "causing confusion," but stressed that the city government's text alert "could be seen as an overreaction, but it was not false." Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon speaks during a media briefing at City Hall, Wednesday, apologizing for confusion caused by an emergency text alert sent by the city government in the morning after North Korea's launch of what it claims was a space launch vehicle. Yonhap A self-described right-wing Christian conservative has faced a Sydney court accused of threatening Indigenous ABC broadcaster Stan Grant and his family after the high-profile presenter stepped down, citing a wave of abuse. A web of online profiles reveal Michael Steven Davis as an active conspiracy blogger now turning his attention against the Voice to Parliament. Michael Steven Davis allegedly threatened former ABC broadcaster Stan Grant in a series of videos. Credit: Nick Moir Davis, who is on bail, faced a registrar at Fairfield Local Court on three counts of using a carriage service to menace and one count of using a carriage service to threaten. Davis had waited in the hallway because he suffers from anxiety, his lawyer Peter Mitchell told the court on Wednesday. When I moved to Marrickville in 2020, I was more excited about living in a house than I was to be within walking distance of pubs and cafes. Since moving out of my parents home at 23 I had never been far from a busy main road and had always lived in inner Sydney, but Id also lived exclusively in apartments. Some see Marrickvilles busy cafes and pubs as signs of a thriving neighbourhood. Others just see noise-making irritations. So living back in a house, now that was new. And the fact that my husband and I actually owned the little semi-detached terrace near the corner of one of Marrickvilles bustling streets felt surreal. So when I saw a neighbour marching across the road, I imagined it was going to be like a scene from my childhood: a neighbour popping over to chat to mum. Except now, I was mum (sans children) and I was going to get that connection that I believed still existed among houses in suburban neighbourhoods. What a treat. But thats not what happened. Im sure youve heard the pub noise from down the road, the neighbour said. And there it was. NIMBYism being pushed through my brand new front door when I had no intention of inviting it in. The construction of a boutique hotel in Sydneys east has been stopped for the past nine months after excavations secretly breached and damaged the heritage-listed Busbys Bore, an underground tunnel that supplied water to the fledgling city in the 1800s. A private certifier appointed to oversee the works issued a stop-work notice in September and the City of Sydney council followed suit 12 days later after Heritage NSW reported the incident although it was never publicly disclosed. Work on the 25hours hotel on Oxford Street, Paddington, has been halted after a heritage-listed bore was damaged. Credit: Nick Moir While the developer, Central Element, repaired the damage and Heritage NSW has approved works to protect the bore and allow further construction to proceed, Sydney Water said the developer had not been able to guarantee no more damage would occur. Sydney Water is working with the developers contractors and engineers to reach a suitable outcome, the agency said in a statement on Tuesday. After several years without any services, an inner-city ferry terminal will be back online in six months, with work about to start on a $17 million upgrade at Dockside. Brisbane City Council will begin its upgrade of the Kangaroo Point terminal within days, with work expected to take about half a year. Rendering of the new ferry terminal at Dockside, due for completion in 2024. Credit: Brisbane City Council Dockside services ceased in 2020, when new KittyCat ferries were introduced and the council pulled eight monohull wooden ferries from service. The double-hull KittyCats were unable to berth at Dockside because of the terminals design. Melbournes first floating nightclub has been told to permanently turn down the music after the council received a barrage of noise complaints from residents since it opened late last year. The City of Melbourne voted to issue a notice of default on its planning permit to Atet nightclub in Docklands after an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) investigation deemed the venue had consistently exceeded reasonable noise levels. The 570-square-metre barge inspired by European open-air parties will have to reduce its music volume to background level or make significant changes to the venue and operating model to comply with its licence agreement. Atet owner Jake Hughes said he was blindsided by councils decision after six months of positive talks aimed at resolving the issues. A 15-year-old boy accused of shooting at a Two Rocks school allegedly spoke to a friend about US school shootings in the weeks leading up to the incident and told a triple-zero operator moments after the attack that he had intended to kill people and himself. The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested last week after allegedly taking two rifles to Atlantis Beach Baptist College and firing three rounds from the schools car park, sending terrified teachers and students into lockdown. On Wednesday, he was granted supervised bail to a community services centre in Armadale, where he will be under a 24-hour curfew. During the teenagers application for bail, Perth Childrens Court heard the boy allegedly told friends in the weeks and days prior that he was going to shoot up the school. A man in his 70s who went missing while prospecting with friends has been found alive after four days lost in remote bushland. A massive land and air search was launched for Brian Brady between Cue and Mount Magnet when he failed to return from a Saturday afternoon walk. Brian Brady, 72, was found on Wednesday at midday. Credit: WA Police The 72-year-old was prospecting with two friends near Lake Austin, a salt lake 45 kilometres north of Mount Magnet. His fellow prospectors raised the alarm on Saturday evening three hours after he set off, with police believing Brady got lost or was picked up along the highway. Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney says she remains completely confident the Yes campaign will convince undecided voters to back the Voice to parliament, as the Opposition anointed a bloc of Liberal Queensland and Western Australian MPs to play a key role in shaping the No case. The two states are expected to be the key battleground for the Yes and No campaigns in the lead-up to the referendum, due between October and December, with strategists in both camps privately identifying WA and Queensland as having the softest support for the Voice. Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney says there is no doubt in her mind that the Yes vote will win. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Speaking after the referendum bill cleared its first hurdle on Wednesday, passing the House of Representatives unamended 121 votes to 25, Burney rejected any suggestion the Yes campaign was struggling for momentum despite a downward trend in support for the Voice across numerous polls in recent months. I have absolute faith in the [Yes} campaigns, Burney said. I hear the doomsday people but I know the work thats being done. I know many of the individuals that are involved and coming on board. United States law enforcement authorities are seeking to gather new evidence about Julian Assange in an apparent effort to bolster their case against the WikiLeaks founder, even as hopes rise among his supporters that a diplomatic breakthrough could soon see him released from prison. The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age can reveal that agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) last week sought to interview acclaimed novelist Andrew OHagan about his time working as a ghostwriter on Assanges autobiography over a decade ago. The letter showing FBI agents wanted to interview novelist Andrew OHagan about Julian Assange. Credit: Instagram/Getty/AP OHagan, who wrote a well-known and often scathing essay about the breakdown of his working relationship with Assange, said he would not agree to an FBI interview because he opposes any attempt to punish him for publishing classified material. The revelation of the interview request came as an unwelcome surprise to Assanges lawyers, who did not previously believe there was an active investigation under way into Assange given it has been three years since US prosecutors issued an indictment against him. The federal government is not ruling out a decision to refer former cabinet minister Stuart Robert to the new anti-corruption watchdog when it starts operating within months, after federal officials confirmed they had no power to investigate his links to companies bidding for lucrative Commonwealth contracts. Special Minister of State Don Farrell said the government was deeply concerned by the reports about the former minister when asked in a Senate estimates hearing about the next steps in examining the contracts. Former MP Stuart Robert has denied helping Synergy 360 and its clients win government work. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen The head of Services Australia, Rebecca Skinner, also revealed the peak federal agency was still examining two matters regarding Synergy 360, a consulting firm led by David Milo, who emailed Robert about federal contracts over several years. When asked if the government intended to refer the concerns to the National Anti-Corruption Commission, Farrell indicated this was possible but that a decision had not been made. The NACC is due to start work in the second half of this year. Nuclear Safety and Security Commission Chairperson Yoo Guk-hee, at podium, talks during a press conference at the government complex in Seoul to give a briefing on an on-site inspection of the crippled Fukushima plant, May 31. Yonhap A team of Korean experts said Wednesday that meaningful progress was achieved in their inspection of the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant, yet additional analysis is needed for a more accurate conclusion regarding the controversial release of contaminated water. The 21-member team, headed by Nuclear Safety and Security Commission Chairperson Yoo Guk-hee, returned home Friday after completing their six-day trip to Japan that included the on-site inspection of the plant ahead of its discharge of contaminated water into the ocean scheduled for this summer. "This inspection has achieved meaningful progress in the scientific and technological review process through on-site inspection and the acquisition of more detailed data. However, we plan to conduct additional analysis and confirmation work for a more accurate conclusion," Yoo told a press briefing. The goal of the delegation was to review the safety of the entire process of discharge and check Tokyo's capability in analyzing radioactive materials by looking at facilities and holding meetings with officials from the plant's operator, Tokyo Electric Power, and other relevant government agencies to secure more data. During the trip, the team spent two days inspecting the plant's facilities, specifically focusing on the custom purification system, known as ALPS, and the facilities related to the K4 tanks, which are designed to store and measure radioactive substances. "We have confirmed that major equipment was installed in accordance with the plan," Yoo said. The delegation observed the ALPS and confirmed the function of emergency isolation valves, designed to immediately halt the discharge of ALPS-treated water into the ocean in the event of an abnormality. Nuclear Safety and Security Commission Chairperson Yoo Guk-hee speaks during a press conference at the government complex in Seoul about the outcome of an inspection of the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant in northeastern Japan by a Korean team of experts over Japan's plan to release radioactive water into the sea, May 31. Yonhap Yoo said that emergency valves were installed to automatically close in case of a sudden power and communication outage, and an additional controller was secured for double-checking. Furthermore, the scientists were able to secure raw data on the concentration levels of the ALPS system's entrance and exit, allowing them to determine contamination levels before and after treatment and to assess its proper operation, Yoo said. The public has raised safety and health concerns, including possible long-term exposure to radioactive water and environmental hazards from the planned release of water, which Tokyo claims is treated and safe. Yoo said the Seoul government plans to additionally confirm Tokyo Electric Power's plan for ocean monitoring and the accuracy of Tokyo's assessment of the effects on radiation levels. The inspection visit was agreed upon in principle when President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held a summit in Seoul earlier this month. Critics, including opposition parties and environmentalists, have raised questions about the effectiveness of the inspection, arguing that it was merely a formality insufficient to verify the safety of the discharge process. In March 2011, a massive earthquake and subsequent tsunami damaged the Fukushima plant's cooling systems, resulting in the release of a large amount of radiation. Currently, the plant stores over 1.3 million tons of water treated by ALPS. The water discharge is set to begin this summer and will take decades to complete, which Japanese officials view as an unavoidable step in the decommissioning process. A separate inspection by the International Atomic Energy Agency is currently being carried out, and a final report on its multiyear safety review is scheduled to be announced in late June. (Yonhap) Sydneys trophy home market clocked up two of the years biggest deals on Tuesday night when Leo Lynch, of flower wholesaler Lynch Group, bought and sold $130 million worth of home real estate. Central to the double deal is the historic Federation estate Leura in Bellevue Hill, which was sold to Lynch for about $70 million by Chinese-Australian businessman Wilson Lee and his wife, Baoyu Wu trading for more than double what they paid for it in 2015. Bellevue Hills Federation mansion Leura sold for about $70 million on Tuesday night. Credit: Domain The purchase coincided with Lynchs sale of his own recently rebuilt home a few blocks away for $61.5 million. Prestige agents were left stunned by the result for Lynchs home on Wednesday, given it is set on about 1300 square metres. It topped the suburb high, previously held by the 5700-square-metre Rona estate that sold for $58 million in 2018 to Richard Scheinberg, of the wealthy cattle and property investment family. Copenhagen: Norwegian authorities said on Tuesday that a beluga whale, which was first spotted in Arctic Norway four years ago with an apparent Russian-made harness and alleged to have come from a Russian military facility, has been seen off Swedens coast nearly 2000 kilometres to the south. During the last few weeks, it has moved quickly and swam several hundred kilometres before reaching waters off Swedens west coast, Olav Lekve of the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries said. He said it has been reported off Lysekill, which sits north of Goteborg, Swedens second-largest city. There was no immediate comment from Swedish authorities. Last week, the white mammal was spotted in the inner Oslo fjord where the directorate urged people to avoid contact with the animal to ensure its safety and wellbeing. Whale-watchers in Norway have nicknamed it Hvaldimir, combining the Norwegian word for whale hval and the Russian first name Vladimir. First show by new UB Art Galleries curator focuses on collaboration, artistic influence As a university gallery, it felt important and exciting to spend some time thinking about collaboration between artists and their influences, and how we might extend these collaborations out to the Buffalo community through offering workshops, talking to local artists, partnering with local bookstores and supporting summer programming. BUFFALO , N.Y. Anna Wager joined the University at Buffalo Art Galleries as its new curator in August 2022, and has been researching areas of the collection for the last six months in preparation for a summer exhibition. Her interest in the roots of these collections, and their relevance to Buffalo, became the inspiration for this show. The history of the UB Art Galleries is also the history of the Martha Jackson and David Anderson galleries, and in some ways the history of UB as an institution. As I spent time with the UB Art Collection and UB Poetry Collection, I started thinking a lot about influence. One of the first pieces I considered was Black Crows (Oranges No. 1), 1952, by Grace Hartigan, which was created in dialogue with a Frank OHara poem, and that was pivotal for me. Its a really layered piece, physically and conceptually, Wager said. The longer Wager examined the piece, the more she thought about the conversations that must have taken place for a piece like this to come together. Wager said she began considering how conversations among artists and their friends likely influence each other. This quickly broadened to include more influences by poets, writers, musicians, teachers and mentors. Considering these relationships and their impacts on each other became the concept and theme for her first show with UB, In Conversation. As a university gallery, it felt important and exciting to spend some time thinking about collaboration between artists and their influences, and how we might extend these collaborations out to the Buffalo community through offering workshops, talking to local artists, partnering with local bookstores and supporting summer programming, Wager said. The items on exhibit are drawn from the collections of the UB Art Galleries and the UB Poetry Collection and aim to introduce visitors to a broader network of collaborators, extending to local and regional partnerships between artists and those who influence them. The media in this exhibition ranges between artist books, large scale paintings, works on paper, sculptural pieces and prints of various kinds. The largest piece, Joan Mitchells Ode to Joy (A Poem by Frank OHara), is an oil painting from 1970-71, and takes up an entire wall of the gallery. One of the smaller works, a sketch of poet Robert Duncan by Virginia Admiral, is the size of a paperback book. We want to balance a range of work, so that there is something for everyone, whatever mood they are in, Wager said. Before coming to UB, Wager was the Clarence A. Davis Visual Arts Curator and gallery director at Hobart and William Smith Colleges. While at Hobart and William Smith, Wager worked on solo exhibitions by contemporary artists including Amanda Maciuba, Andrew Ellis Johnson, Rebecca Murtaugh, Sarita Zaleha and John Opera a UB assistant professor of art. Wager also curated collections and thematic group exhibitions around such topics as art and labor, craft and democracy, and Afrofuturism. Her previous curatorial projects and fellowships include work at the Delaware Art Museum, the Seattle Art Museum and the Henry Art Gallery. Were thrilled and delighted that Wager has joined our team. She brings important experience of working with art historical research, contemporary artists and connecting students to the work, said Robert Scalise, UB Art Galleries director. Programming for Wagers first UB exhibition as curator include an opening reception on June 8 from 58 p.m. which will feature a lecture at 7 p.m. by Ada Calhoun, author of Also a Poet: Frank OHara, My Father and Me. There will also be workshops throughout the exhibition, an activity book for kids and adults, and a July 15 community day for the neighborhood surrounding UB Anderson Gallery. Support for UB Art Galleries is provided by the UB College of Arts and Sciences, the Visual Arts Building Fund, the UB Anderson Gallery Fund, and the Seymour H. Knox Foundation Fine Art Fund. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) told the Delhi High Court that it has not rejected the application of Go First's lessors to terminate the leases of the aircraft in possession of the cash-strapped airline. Advocate Anjana Gossain, appearing for DGCA, said that there was a glitch on the DGCA website which showed that the application by some lessors to terminate the leases of the aircraft were rejected. Gossain said that after the application of voluntary insolvency by Go First was accepted by the National Company Law Tribunal(NCLT), Delhi on May 10, all the lessors were informed that a moratorium was in place and their application to terminate the leases of the aircraft could not be processed. Also Read NCLAT upholds Competition Commission's Rs 1,337 crore penalty on Google Google dials NCLAT against CCI's Android order, Rs 1,337-crore fine CCI likely to appeal against NCLAT order in DLF matter: Sources NCLAT directs Google to pay 10% of Rs 1,337 crore penalty imposed by CCI NCLAT to hear SMBC Aviation's plea against NCLT order on Go First today Aureus Investment, promoter of Sona BLW Precision sells 3.2% stake Competition Commission's DG Atul Verma gets three-month extension Online grocery firm Zepto announces leadership elevation as it eyes IPO OnePlus India CEO Navnit Nakra moves on from brand to follow his passion Monitoring Committee on sealing should be disbanded by the court: CAIT Justice Tara Vitasta Ganju of Delhi High Court asked the DGCA as to why different responses were sent to different lessors regarding the staus of the termination of leases. Justice Ganju has asked the aviation regulatory body to explain on June 1 whether the lessors were informed by the DGCA on the current status of their application of termination. The lessors of Go First had moved the high court against the DGCA, seeking to deregister their aircraft leased to Go First. This was shortly after the NCLAT upheld the NCLT order on May 22. The petitions were filed by Pembroke Aircraft Leasing 11 Limited, Accipiter Investments Aircraft 2 Limited, EOS Aviation 12 (Ireland) Limited, DAE SY 22 13 Ireland Designated Activity Company, SFV Aircraft Holdings IRE 9 DAC LImited, ACG Aircraft Leasing Ireland Limited, and SMBC Aviation Capital Limited. All of them have been clubbed together for hearing. The DGCA had told the high court earlier it had not rejected the application of Go Firsts lessors for deregistering the aircraft but had kept the process (of deregistration) in abeyance because of the moratorium. The lessors had told the NCLAT they had sought deregistering Go Firsts aircraft before the insolvency plea was admitted. In reply to this, Go First argued the lessors had hastily applied for deregistration as soon as they got wind of the fact that the airline was filing for insolvency. The lessors argued that, according to the Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorisations (IDERA), it was mandatory for the DGCA to deregister the aircraft upon their request. The high court will continue hearing the arguments in the case on June 1. The Interim Resolution Professional (IRP) of Go First had on Tuesday told the Delhi High Court that parallel proceedings could not go in the case and that the court could not interfere in the resolution process. This was again reiterated by the IRP in the hearing on May 31. Senior advocate Harish Salve, appearing for the IRP, had told the court that a writ court (the high court in this case) should not interfere in the resolution process after the insolvency application had been accepted by the NCLT. He said there were many Supreme Court judgments that had said this. Courts should not interfere in the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) process because the essence of this process is that it is time-bound. Interests start piling up with every passing day on all dues, Salve said. He argued if the court were to release the aircraft in accordance with the lessors request, the airline would not be able to resume operations and thousands of employees would lose their jobs. After the insolvency plea was accepted, a moratorium was in place, which meant suspending all or certain legal remedies against Go First. This meant lessors could not take back their aircraft in possession of the cash-strapped airline. By Advait Palepu Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone Ltd.s auditor said insufficient disclosures over certain transactions means it can only issue a qualified opinion on the companys accounts, returning the spotlight to allegations made by short seller Hindenburg Research on Gautam Adanis empire. Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP raised concerns on Tuesday over the port units transactions with three entities, which the company said were unrelated parties. But the auditor said it could not confirm that the parties were indeed unrelated, and that the firm has refused to get an independent external examination that would help prove so. Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone Ltd.s auditor said insufficient disclosures over certain transactions means it can only issue a qualified opinion on the companys accounts, returning the spotlight to allegations made by short seller Hindenburg Research on Gautam Adanis empire. Its the first time that a top auditor has issued a qualified opinion on part of the empires books citing allegations from the US short seller report that has wiped more than $100 billion off the groups market value. The move will renew concerns that information gaps persist in the port-to-power conglomerates financial dealings, and risks hampering its attempts to move past Hindenburgs allegations of extensive corporate fraud. Noting that the evaluation performed by the group does not constitute sufficient appropriate audit evidence for the purpose of the audit, Deloitte said that it therefore cannot comment if the company was fully compliant with local laws. Here are the three transactions flagged by Deloitte: The Adani Group has denied Hindenburgs allegations. It is awaiting findings of a probe by Indias market regulator that needs to conclude by Aug. 14 deadline on any possible violations by the conglomerate. An expert panel appointed by Indias top court this month found no regulatory failure or signs of price manipulation in the Adani Group stocks in its interim report. Also Read Adani Ports ends FY23 with 9% growth, largest port cargo volume ever Adani Green Energy to seek board approval to raise up to $1 billion Israel's former envoy to India appointed chairman of Adani's Haifa port China's Huawei Technologies looks to ports, factories to rebuild sales Rajiv Jain's GQG Partners to invest another $1 bn in Adani group stocks A $2.5 bn debt bill shows risks ahead for Anil Agarwal's Vedanta Resources Adani Ports fourth-quarter profit takes hit from Myanmar port sale Twitter now worth just 33% of Elon Musk's purchase price, says Fidelity Vedanta-Foxconn chip venture application for India funding to be rejected Delhi Metro launches WhatsApp-based ticketing service for Airport line Navnit Nakra, CEO of OnePlus India, has moved on from the global technology brand to follow his passion, the company confirmed on Wednesday. In 2021, the smartphone maker announced the elevation of Nakra, then Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Sales in India, as its India CEO and Head of the OnePlus India region. In a statement shared with IANS, the company thanked Nakra for his contribution towards OnePlus India. "He has played an instrumental role in managing the India business over the last three years and wish him best of luck for his future endeavours," the company said in the statement. "OnePlus is committed towards India as a region and our Community members. We will continue to strengthen our focus in India," the company added. In a letter sent by Nakra to the OnePlus community, accessed by IANS, he said that after much thought, "I have decided to move on from OnePlus. I intend to follow my passion and spend some quality time with my family." Also Read OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite goes on sale with introductory offers: Details here OnePlus TV 65 Q2 Pro smart TV, OnePlus 81 Pro keyboard launched in India OnePlus Pad review: Promising tablet let down by limitations in Android OS OnePlus 11 5G smartphone, Buds Pro 2 wireless earphones unveiled: Know more OnePlus 11 5G review: A pro-grade phone even if it does not have it in name Monitoring Committee on sealing should be disbanded by the court: CAIT Nearly 81% firms face shortage of skilled tech workers: EY and iMocha UK-based abrdn offloads remaining 1.66% stake in HDFC Life Insurance Go First lessors' plea for plane delisting shown as rejected due to glitch Jaguar recalls I-Pace electric vehicles due to fire risk in batteries by LG "It has been a pleasure to have been a part of our amazing Community --- even though I am no longer a part of the business team, I hope you all would give me the privilege of being a part of the OnePlus Community," Nakra added. Nakra spearheaded the company's business operations and overall strategy for the India region. His journey with OnePlus India began in February 2020 as the Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, wherein he drove the corporate strategy plans as well as key strategic partnerships. He went on to also oversee the sales operations of the company in the region. --IANS na/vd TWE OBT, the 50:50 joint venture (JV), will seek growth in the Indian market for nonwovens, which are engineered fabric products. TWE has invested an undisclosed amount for a 50 per cent holding in the JV. TWE group GmbH, an international nonwoven solutions company, has acquired a 50 per cent stake in Obeetee Textiles (OTL), a subsidiary of one of Indias oldest and largest carpet makers, as part of a strategic joint venture. TWE was in 2022 the fifth biggest importer of nonwovens for the Indian market and the JV would allow it to enter manufacturing in the country. TWE will provide technical knowledge for the hygiene business to the JV. The JV will set up a new facility to manufacture nonwoven products for the health and hygiene sector, a fast-growing segment. Nonwovens is an important sector but the high-end technical solutions have always been imported from Europe or China. TWE OBT will aim to substitute imports, said Rudra Chatterjee, chairman of Obeetee. Ingo Soller, general manager Asia of TWE and chief executive officer of TWE OBT, said his company wanted to expand its engagement in India. Generally, South Asia is a growing market but some countries are a little more interesting for us, he said. Also Read Luxury carpet brand Obeetee eyes Rs 1,000 crore turnover in FY24 Vardhman Textiles' net profit up 52% QoQ; declares Rs 3.5 dividend a share Samvardhana Motherson's SAS acquisition reasonably priced: Analysts Rajiv Jain's GQG Partners to invest another $1 bn in Adani group stocks One year since Tatas took over Air India, here's how the journey has been Vistara to start flight service on Agartala-Bengaluru route on Aug 1 Twitter rival Bluesky backed by Jack Dorsey crosses 100,000 users Uber to offer cashback as it drops ride discounts for subscribers Deloitte flags Adani Port transactions citing 'insufficient disclosures' A $2.5 bn debt bill shows risks ahead for Anil Agarwal's Vedanta Resources The JV will focus on the hygiene market, automotive and filtration, said Soller. For one of the major players to come and manufacture in India reflects the growing potential of the market, he said. TWE OBT would also look at tapping Indias neighbouring countries. The joint venture partners have a similar background. TWE is family-run and was founded in 1912. The story of Obeetee, the parent of OTL, goes back to 1920, Mirzapur (Uttar Pradesh) when it was founded by three Britishers. It was acquired by Chatterjee-led Luxmi group in 1998. OTL deals in nonwoven machine-made floor covering items, technical textiles, and other products. It is a key player in the automotive segment, having strategic customer alliances with original equipment manufacturers. TWE is well known globally for its nonwoven products across healthcare, hygiene, automotive, filtration, building, living, segments. OPL, a handwoven rug company, has draped many important institutions in the country. The latest feather in its cap is the new Parliament building in Delhi. By Sankalp Phartiyal and Sudhi Ranjan Sen Indias government is poised to deny crucial funding for billionaire Anil Agarwals chip venture, a setback for a $19 billion push to make semiconductors in the country. The government is likely to tell the venture between Agarwals Vedanta Resources Ltd. and Taiwans Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. it wont get incentives to make 28-nanometer chips, people familiar with the matter said. The venture has applied for such assistance, potentially worth billions of dollars, but hasnt met the criteria set by the government. Indias government is poised to deny crucial funding for billionaire Anil Agarwals chip venture, a setback for a $19 billion push to make semiconductors in the country. Nine months after Agarwal announced the chip partnership to build Indias own Silicon Valley, the project is yet to find a technology partner or license manufacturing-grade technology for the 28nm chips it was seeking to build, the people said. At least one of those steps is needed for the venture to get government assistance. While Vedanta and Hon Hai can apply again, a rejection would mean delays for Agarwals ambition to establish Indias first major chipmaking operation, even as his metals and mining conglomerate struggles to reduce a heavy debt load. A representative for Vedanta said the company was awaiting the outcome of its application from the government. Hon Hai, widely known as Foxconn, didnt respond to an email seeking comment. Vedanta and Hon Hai, the assembler of a bulk of the worlds iPhones, have no previous significant experience in chipmaking. Their difficulty in finding production-ready technology underscores how hard it is to set up new semiconductor plants, massive complexes that cost billions to build and require very specialized expertise to run. Also Read Vedanta-Foxconn JV set to get govt approval for its chip-making plant Foxconn lines up Rs 4,110 cr for new Hyderabad plant, 25,000 jobs likely Considering options on Electrosteel: Vedanta Resources' Anil Agarwal India renews call for chipmakers as Anil Agarwal's $19 billion plan drags Anil Agarwal weighing Vedanta stake sale as last resort, says report Delhi Metro launches WhatsApp-based ticketing service for Airport line Global IT firm Xebia inaugurates technology hub in Jaipur: Report Kalpataru Projects International promoters divest 6% stake for Rs 468 cr Biryanis, condoms, Jalebi-Fafda & soup bowls: What we Swiggy'd in IPL 2023 ICD provisioning drags McLeod Russel to loss of Rs 1,078.27 crore Vedanta has previously said its partner Hon Hai had secured production-grade, high-volume 40nm technology and development-grade technology for relatively more sophisticated 28nm chips. Thats likely not enough for the government to award the funding, as the venture had applied to actually produce 28nm chips, the people said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged $10 billion to woo chipmakers to India, promising his administration will bear half the cost of setting up all semiconductor sites. Indias technology ministry didnt respond to a request for comment. The federal government may soon ask Vedanta to submit a new application for financial support to make 40nm chips, and give a revised capital expenditure estimate. Such a bid could be considered after New Delhi reopens the application process for incentives, part of a push to lure prospective chipmakers into the country thats yielded little success so far. We are very comfortable with Vedanta Resources debt and its debt-to-equity ratio and have no plans to reduce stake in Vedanta Ltd to raise funds, said Anil Agarwal, chairman of the Vedanta group, at a town hall of Vedanta Ltd shareholders. Vedanta Resources, the parent firm of Vedanta Ltd, on Wednesday, said it repaid bonds worth $1.4 billion that were due in May and June, reducing its gross debt to $6.4 billion from $7.8 billion at the end of March this year. The Vedanta group aims to reduce its debt further in 2023-24 (FY24) and ultimately have it at zero. It has reduced gross debt by $3.3 billion since it announced a deleveraging target in March 2022. VRLs gross debt was $9.7 billion at the end of March 2022, a Vedanta statement noted. Vedantas shares closed 2.5 per cent down at Rs 278 apiece on Wednesday, giving it a market valuation of Rs 1.03 trillion. The company lost 13.3 per cent or Rs 15,891 crore of market valuation over the past year. The parent firm also raised fresh loans worth $850 million from JPMorgan Chase and Oaktree Capital. It separately raised $250 million from rival Glencore International. In FY23, Vedanta Resources received Rs 25,636 crore as dividends from Vedanta Ltd which were partly used to repay debt, analysts said. VRL owns a 68.1 per cent stake in Vedanta Ltd, which in turn holds a 63 per cent stake in Hindustan Zinc. Also Read Prince Harry, Meghan Markle's car chase ordeal echoes Princess Diana's fate Distressed funds including Oaktree Capital scoop up Adani Group bonds Vedanta unit's ability to raise loans reduces liquidity risk for group: S&P Considering options on Electrosteel: Vedanta Resources' Anil Agarwal Vedanta's Q3 net profit falls 42%, announces dividend of Rs 12.5 a share Tatas create war chest of over Rs 7,600 crore for electronics business TWE Group GmbH, Obeetee Textiles set up strategic JV for nonwovens Vistara to start flight service on Agartala-Bengaluru route on Aug 1 Twitter rival Bluesky backed by Jack Dorsey crosses 100,000 users Uber to offer cashback as it drops ride discounts for subscribers Vedanta has a complete business plan to take care of debt and the target is to have zero debt in the next few years, Agarwal said. All the payments have been made in the past and will be made in the future. Agarwal said the group has good relations with Glencore, which is a key customer of the group, and said there are no plan to sell a stake to Glencore. Analysts said they remain aware of refinancing risk on VRLs $4.1-billion debt due in FY24, for which VRL will likely have to rely heavily on external fundraising for a $2.1-billion refinancing and an additional $950 million to plug a funding gap. At this point, we would still lean towards VRL being successful at tying up its $2.1 billion of fundraising, given VRLs recent debt reductions, recent fresh fundraising efforts (the recent $850-million refinancing loan and a just-announced $250-million loan from Glencore International pledged against a 4.4 per cent stake in Vedanta Ltd) and that we think various alternative funding channels remain open for VRL (e.g. share pledges and some dividend upstreaming)," said analysts with CreditSights, a research firm. Analysts expect new loans to carry higher interest when compared to Vedanta Resources' existing bonds. In return, the group has pledged its entire stake in Vedanta Ltd and its subsidiary, Hindustan Zinc Ltd to lenders. In this photo released by Pyongyang's state-run Korean Central TV, May 17, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, second from left, with his daughter Ju-ae, left, talks to officials of satellite launch preparation committee in North Korea. Yonhap By Ko Dong-hwan The South Korean government is on high alert over North Korea's plan to launch in the coming weeks what it claims to be a rocket carrying a military spy satellite. Seoul warned that Pyongyang will pay the price for the launch, which is banned under U.N. Security Council resolutions since it uses ballistic missile technology. The National Security Council (NSC) held a meeting following a Japanese news report earlier in the day that Pyongyang had notified Tokyo of its plan to put its first military reconnaissance satellite in geosynchronous orbit between May 31 and June 11. Chaired by National Security Adviser Cho Tae-yong, the NSC meeting discussed related countermeasures and relayed relevant information to President Yoon Suk Yeol. The National Security Office said the government was closely monitoring related developments. Shortly after the meeting, Seoul's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also issued a statement urging the North to give up the satellite launch plan. Foreign Ministry spokesman Lim Soo-suk said North Korea's envisaged plan violates UNSC resolutions that ban Pyongyang from using ballistic missile technology which is also used to launch space rockets carrying satellites. Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida speaks to reporters about North Korea's notification of its imminent plan to launch a spy satellite, at his office in Tokyo, Monday. AP-Yonhap Microsoft and Accenture on Wednesday announced the third cohort of the Project Amplify programme, which will support 13 Indian startups with solutions focusing on clean tech, circularity, regenerative agriculture, education and skilling. The programme will also support the startups with testing and validating proofs-of-concept, reimagining the impact of their solutions through design thinking sessions, access to the latest technologies and guidance from experts at Microsoft and Accenture. "Through our continued collaboration with Microsoft, we are applying our joint expertise to support social impact startups and help bring their solutions to our enterprise clients across the globe, scaling their impact," Sanjay Podder, managing director and Technology Sustainability Innovation lead at Accenture, said in a statement. Moreover, the programme will offer startups access to Microsoft technologies, including up to $1,50,000 in Azure credits, M365 and D365, Visual Studio and GitHub Enterprise access, enterprise-grade Azure engineering support, networking opportunities with other global social entrepreneurs and an array of go-to-market resources. "In collaboration with Accenture and as part of our Entrepreneurship for Positive Impact Initiative, we are humbled to support bold innovators in India, driving systemic change through their sustainable businesses," Jean-Philippe Courtois, Executive Vice President and President, National Transformation Partnerships, Microsoft, said in a statement. Launched in 2020, previous cohorts of the programme focused on addressing issues in food safety, livelihood, education, sustainability, and skilling. Also Read Accenture India chief Rekha Menon to retire; Role split between two Microsoft 365 Copilot: Microsoft is bringing AI to its productivity apps Accenture's retained FY23 guidance hints slowdown for IT firms: Analysts Accenture to cut 19,000 jobs amid worsening global outlook, trims forecast Tesla chief Elon Musk threatens to sue Microsoft for using data 'illegally' BlackRock cuts edtech giant Byju's valuation by 62% in a year to $8.4 bn BlackRock cuts Byju's valuation again. This time by 62% to $8.4 billion G20 members working to arrive at common framework to define startups Taxing times: Income tax heat on start-ups over unexplained funds Food-tech start-up Pluckk appoints Kunwarjeet Grover as Head of Growth --IANS shs/ksk/ Unsubscribe to continue This is a subscriber only feature Subscribe Now to get daily updates on WhatsApp About 40-50 foreign direct investment (FDI)proposals from countries sharing land border with India under the provisions of Press Note 3 are pending for approval with the government, official sources said. Under Press Note 3, the government has made its prior approval mandatory for foreign investments from countries that share land border with India. These countries are China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar and Afghanistan. As per that decision, FDI proposals from these countries need government approval for investments in India in any sector. "About 40-50 proposals are pending with the commerce and industry ministry as they require security and political clearances," one of the sources said. Sources added that there is no consideration at present to ease norms under this press note. "FDI is not totally banned from these countries. It is just that they (investors from these countries) have to follow the government approval route and of course that takes times," a source said. Also Read FDI inflows decline 16% to $71 billion for first time in a decade: RBI data India's foreign direct investment flows to see modest pick-up in FY24: Citi India emerges as key source country for FDI into Dubai, says report FDI inflows expected to rebound in India on account of high growth: Survey Startups to attract large foreign direct investments in 2023: DPIIT Secy Sugar mills export entire quota of 6.1 mn tonnes, cash in on high prices India of 2023 is different from what it was in 2013: Morgan Stanley Walmart boost: India's readymade garment exports limping to normalcy in May Govt invites new applications for semiconductor manufacturing unit GDP preview: Why is India likely to retain fastest-growing economy tag The government has a commitment to clear these proposals in three months time, but it takes about seven months. As per industry sources, MG Motor, a British brand owned by China's largest automaker SAIC Motor Corp, has been awaiting government approval for around two years now to raise funds from its parent. MG Motor India recently said it plans to offer a majority stake to local partners and investors over the next 2-4 years as it looks to raise around Rs 5,000 crore capital to fund next round of its growth in the country. The automaker has been looking to raise capital for sometime now to fund its expansion. With little success so far, it has now started looking for other options to raise the required capital. Total FDI flows into India, which include equity inflows, reinvested earnings and other capital, declined 16 per cent to USD 70.97 billion in last fiscal year as against USD 84.83 billion in 2021-22 due to lower inflows in important sectors such as automobiles, computer hardware and software. Press Note 3 was introduced in April 2020 as the government wanted to curb opportunistic takeovers of domestic firms following the COVID-19 pandemic. An inter-ministerial committee has been formed by the government to scrutinise these proposals. All administrative ministries and departments have been advised to have dedicated FDI cells to process these proposals expeditiously. India received USD 2.5 billion FDI equity from China during period April 2000 to March 2023. During the period, India received USD 0.076 million investments from Bangladesh, USD 3.31 million from Nepal, USD 9 million from Myanmar and USD 2.57 million from Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the US, the EU, South Korea, Japan, among others, are spending an estimated $200 billion on subsidies to encourage companies to set up fab plants and other semiconductor downstreams in their countries. And they already have a vibrant semiconductor ecosystem and supply chain in place. India is new to the business, and is entering the space at a time when countries that faced a huge shortage of chips during the pan On Wednesday the government decided to throw open the doors to more players to participate in its semiconductor scheme. It is now looking at not only 28 nanometre (nm) chips and below, but higher nodes like 40 nm. It is also open to existing participants in the scheme applying again. Apart from the Vendanta-Foxconn JV, Singapore-based IGSS Ventures and ISMC, the consortium of Abu Dhabi-based Next Orbit Ventures and Israels Tower Semiconductor, had applied for the benefits. Both IGSS and ISMC are set to reapply, say top executives of the respectibe consortiums. However, Vedanta-Foxconn did not respond to their plan of action. The Centre has invited fresh applications seeking incentives to set up semiconductor and display manufacturing fabs. This comes after a joint venture (JV) between Vedanta Resources and Foxconn was reportedly denied the benefits under Indias ambitious semiconductor mission. ISM (India Semiconductor Mission) @Semicon_India is today announcing that it will start accepting and considering new applications for fabs from new & existing applicants, said Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Twitter, responding to the Bloomberg story. According to a Bloomberg report, the government has decided to deny incentives to Vedanta-Foxconns proposed 28-nanometer semiconductor manufacturing facility. This comes after the JV failed to find a technology partner or licence manufacturing-grade technology for the fabrication plant in the nine months after it first announced plans. A query to Vedanta on its plans to reapply for the incentive remained unanswered. It will tweak the proposal by bringing in a major global semiconductor company on board as lead investor of the consortium. Raj Kumar, founder and group chief executive officer (group CEO) of IGSS Ventures, said: Yes, we will reapply for the fab project in India. The consortium is planning to make some changes based on its discussions with the ISM, the nodal agency for the programme. Also Read Vedanta-Foxconn JV set to get govt approval for its chip-making plant Foxconn lines up Rs 4,110 cr for new Hyderabad plant, 25,000 jobs likely Market regulator Sebi suspends small town-linked incentive for MFs India's semiconductor market to touch $64 bn by 2026: Counterpoint-IESA Vedanta unit's ability to raise loans reduces liquidity risk for group: S&P GDP preview: Why is India likely to retain fastest-growing economy tag Despite world-beating growth, India's lack of jobs threatens its young Economists predict first rate cut by RBI in 2024 for durable growth Indian economy likely gained pace in March qtr, data to be released today Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik inaugurates investment projects worth Rs 3,600 Cr The consortium has three global investors already and they have committed equity. ISM had said it needs to get a large anchor investor for the project. Though the Vedanta-Foxconn JV may file a new application to meet the governments criteria, the delay in receiving incentives worth 50 per cent of the development costs of the fabrication unit is considered to be a setback. Ajay Jalan, founder and managing director (MD) of Next Orbit Ventures, also confirmed that ISMC will reapply. It was earlier told by ISM that Next Orbit, a financial investor-run equity fund, should sell its stake to an Indian company. The $10-billion production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for semiconductor manufacturing initially focused on encouraging the production of semiconductors with smaller nodes. Strategy now is also encouraging mature nodes of >40nm current and new players may apply afresh in various nodes that they have technology for. It is expected that some of the current applicants will reapply n (sic) fresh investors will also apply, Chandrasekhar added. New applications for setting up semiconductor fabrication units in the country can be made from June 1. The application window is open till December 2024. The earlier window for submitting applications for incentives was opened in January 2022 for 45 days. The government, in September 2022, revised the semiconductor PLI scheme with a uniform 50 per cent incentive of the project cost for all semiconductor nodes. The earlier one was 30, 40, and 50 per cent incentives for different nodes. The story so far January 2022: Applications invited within 45 days, 3 applications received December 2021: Govt launched India Semiconductor Mission Analysts and government officials said that this points to a strong rebound in private investment, after two years of the Covid-19 pandemic, on top of the ongoing public sector capex. Capital investment in the country showed strong growth the March quarter of 2022-23 and also for the entire financial year, according to data from the National Statistical Office (NSO). On a nominal basis, gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), a proxy for infrastructure investment, contributed 29.2 per cent to FY23 GDP, against 28.9 per cent in FY22 and 27.3 per cent in FY21. On real GDP terms, GFCF was 34 per cent as a share of GDP in FY23, compared to 32.7 per cent and 31.1 per cent in the previous two years. Household consumption, however, was weak for the entire year and also Q4. Analysts argued this was due to uneven growth and a K-shaped recovery, with rural consumption being not as strong as urban demand. Nominal GFCF contribution to GDP in Q4FY23 was 31.7 per cent, against 26.7 per cent in Q3FY23 and 31.4 per cent in Q4FY22. In real terms, it was 35.3 per cent, 31.7 per cent, and 34.3 per cent, respectively. Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) V Anantha Nageswaran, during a media briefing after the release of national income data, said real GFCF, as a contributor to GDP, was the highest in nine years in FY23. Also Read New phase of capex cycle to start soon, say analysts. Top stocks to bet on What do industry trends say about consumption and the economy? Too early to bet on rural recovery; stay selective on FMCG stocks: Analysts Illegal liquor: Consumption may be up, but deaths show the opposite trend Zerodha's co-founder, Nikhil Kamath is backing on domestic consumption National Electricity Plan: Coal to fall behind renewables by 2032 Kerala govt raises ceiling on purchase of products from startups to Rs 3 cr Three out of five large economies show pick-up in growth, shows data Core sector output growth slows to six-month low of 3.5% in April ONDC to launch new incentive scheme on June 1, caps discounts at Rs 100 Healthy growth in GFCF reflects the sustained focus of the government on capex, said Sunil Sinha, principal economist with India Ratings. On the demand side, fixed investment grew 8.9 per cent year-on-year in FY23 and 8 per cent in Q4, supported by strong government capex and also some scaling up by the private sector, said Rahul Bajoria, MD & head of emerging markets Asia (ex-China) Economics, Barclays. Our preliminary estimates show that private investment increased 21.4 per cent year-on-year in FY23, Nageswaran said. Nageswaran said that a number of sectors witnessed robust growth in private sector investment. According to his presentation, the hotel industry witnessed more than 80 per cent year-on-year increase in private investment in FY23, while textiles, metals and steel industries saw more than 50 per cent increase. We have been flagging the issue of weak private final consumption expenditure (PFCE) as the current recovery in consumption demand is showing a K-shaped recovery. The current consumption demand is highly skewed in favour of goods and services consumed largely by households falling in the upper-income bracket. A broad-based consumption recovery, therefore, is still some distance away, said Sinha of India Ratings. Things were not that encouraging for private final consumption expenditure, which is a proxy for household consumption. By Rajendra Jadhav MUMBAI (Reuters) - Indian mills have shipped out the entire 6.1 million tonnes of sugar allowed for exports, industry officials told Reuters, cashing in on multi-year high prices in the world market and robust demand. The world's second-biggest producer of the sweetener is, however, unlikely to allow additional exports in the current marketing year ending on Sept. 30, due to a likely drop in production. This could lift global prices and allow top producer Brazil to sell more sugar on the world market. "The mills have shipped the entire allocated quantity, and nothing has left since global prices became attractive," Prakash Naiknavare, managing director of the National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories Ltd, told Reuters. Mills were getting more than 50,000 rupees ($604.6) per tonne from the overseas sale against the local price of 36,500 rupees, dealers said. Also Read India to allow duty free imports of sunflower, soyoil until June Sugar mills in Maharashtra to close early as rain hits cane supply 'Nalayak' jibe only to highlight PM's empty rhetoric for Banjaras: Priyank Domestic textile industry faces tough times as consumers cut spending MLA Nitin Deshmukh in spat with police; Shinde says won't be arrested India of 2023 is different from what it was in 2013: Morgan Stanley Walmart boost: India's readymade garment exports limping to normalcy in May Govt invites new applications for semiconductor manufacturing unit GDP preview: Why is India likely to retain fastest-growing economy tag Despite world-beating growth, India's lack of jobs threatens its young A rumour earlier this month that India could ban exports prompted mills to accelerate the remaining shipments, he said. The country exported a record 11 million tonnes of sugar in the previous 2021-2022 season, but New Delhi allowed exports of only 6.1 million tonnes in the current year due to an expected drop in production. Production is likely to fall to 32.8 million tonnes in the current year, from a record 35.8 million tonnes in the previous season. The drop in the production has closed the window of additional exports, which mills were seeking earlier, said a senior industry official, who declined to be named. "We are now not demanding the government to allow more exports in the current season. We know it's not possible," he said. India mainly exports sugar to Indonesia, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Sudan, Somalia and the United Arab Emirates. Asian and African buyers have shifted to Brazil from India as the south American country has ample surplus for exports, said a Mumbai-based dealer with a global trade house. ($1 = 82.7 Indian rupees) (Reporting by Rajendra Jadhav; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila) The fact that there are so many schools in the southern states that offer courses in engineering and medicine has long been a sign of the skew, but this is the first time that the Centre has really looked into it. PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development), a new division under the NCERT created to address such disparities, will examine this in more detail. There are significant regional differences in the academic streams that students choose for high school in the country, with Science being the overwhelmingly popular choice among students in most southern states and Arts receiving very little interest, a Union government study said on Wednesday. Top states where the Science stream is popular According to the study, students in the Science stream outnumbered those in the Arts stream by a large margin in Andhra Pradesh (75.63 per cent), Telangana (64.59 per cent), Tamil Nadu (61.50 per cent), Uttar Pradesh (57.13 per cent), and Kerala (44.50 per cent) for the academic year 20212022. South India accounts for four of the five sizable states where students in grades XIXII prefer Science, the study said. In Manipur, up to 68.87 per cent of students who took the Class XII board exams opted for Science. Also Read School boards across states to have similar sets of questions soon: Report First time since 2014, Amazon omits India business from earnings call Most pollution boards financially surplus but don't spend on infra: Study Text-to-image AI: Powerful, easy-to-use technology for making art and fakes Quick commerce finds it footing amid funding winter, now needs to scale Bengal govt introduces 4-year UG honours course from this academic year Assam NMMS exam 2023 announced: Check cut-offs, scholarship, date and more SSC Phase X Additional result declared, 3 weeks to submit paperwork NCERT drops Khalistan's topic from class 12 political science textbook Canada to accept Toefl scores for higher education under SDS scheme States where Arts is preferred The top five states where Arts was the most popular choice in 2022 were Gujarat (81.55 per cent), West Bengal (78.94 per cent), Punjab (72.89 per cent), Haryana (73.76 per cent), and Rajasthan (71.23 per cent), showing a wider geographic spread than Science. Officials from the Ministry of Education claimed that despite the study only including preferences from the class of 2022, the data is indicative of long-term trends. In the Northeast, Arts was the popular choice in Meghalaya (82.62), Tripura (85.12 per cent), and Nagaland (79.62 per cent). What about the Commerce stream? The study claims that the Commerce stream, which has an average national enrollment of 14 per cent of students, "has stagnated at the same level over the last decade." In these states, Arts students made up only 1.53 per cent, 2.01 per cent, and 2.19 per cent, respectively, of the 2022 board examination population. As many as 32 per cent of high school students enrolled in the state education board of Tamil Nadu in 2022 chose to major in Commerce, compared to 23.54 per cent in Telangana and 13.64 per cent in Andhra Pradesh. The vocational stream, which has few enrollees in most other states, had 9.85 per cent and 8.5 per cent of students respectively in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Do these trends continue at the higher education level as well? Numerous facts demonstrate the preference for the Science stream in South India. On the other hand, over the same period, the proportion of students choosing Science and the Arts increased from 31 per cent to over 40 per cent (national average). What is notable is that, in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, where Science is the dominant stream, the preference for Commerce is significantly higher than the national average.In these states, Arts students made up only 1.53 per cent, 2.01 per cent, and 2.19 per cent, respectively, of the 2022 board examination population.As many as 32 per cent of high school students enrolled in the state education board of Tamil Nadu in 2022 chose to major in Commerce, compared to 23.54 per cent in Telangana and 13.64 per cent in Andhra Pradesh. The vocational stream, which has few enrollees in most other states, had 9.85 per cent and 8.5 per cent of students respectively in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. In 20222023, Tamil Nadu alone had 13.8 lakh students enrolled in engineering and technical courses, the highest among all states. According to the council's 202223 handbook, there are 1,229 institutions offering engineering and technological courses in the five states of south India that have received approval from the All India Council for Technical Education (including 9 in Puducherry and 1 in Lakshadweep). These institutions have a 5.11 lakh student intake capacity. This ranking is the highest of any region. Additionally, some hints in this regard can be found in the JEE advanced scores. For instance, in 2022, IIT Bombay and IIT Madras both had 29 candidates among the top 100 institutions. Even in 2021, the south zone produced 27 candidates in this category, third only to the IIT Bombay and Delhi zones. The zones that correspond to the states of eastern and northeastern India lag far behind. Telangana had the most students who scored a perfect score in JEE Main 2023, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan. According to a response provided by the Ministry of Health in the Lok Sabha in April last year, out of the 596 medical colleges (both public and private) in India, as many as 225, or 37.7 per cent, are in the states of Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. In this section First Published: May 31 2023 | 5:24 PM IST When inflation gets closer to 4%, focus can shift to growth: Jayanth Varma No hike needed if inflation within tolerance band: MPC member Ashima Goyal Seeing stress in MSME sector... had slippages of Rs 3K cr: A Manimekhalai Shouldn't return to old pension system with same formula: C Rangarajan No SVB-like scenario in India; banks are on a strong footing, say analysts Bank stocks can slide more; stay away for now: Analysts IND vs JPN Highlights, Hockey WC: India thrash Japan 8-0 in classification Fifa World Cup: Giant killers Japan scalp Spain, Germany out in group stage Japan has been the standout global market this year with its benchmark Nikkei 225 index soaring more than 20 per cent to reach 1990 highs., Chief Japan Equity Strategist, Bank of America, explains what is driving the new-found interest in the worlds third-largest economy. In an interview to, Akutsu says the yen depreciation this time around is benefitting stock prices and Japanese markets will finally surpass their lifetime highs made 34 years ago. Edited excerpts: Structural changes are a key factor behind the revaluation of Japan stocks. The expected upward shift in base pay following spring labour negotiations is unlikely to be temporary due to labour shortage. Companies are likely to be forced into making significant changes to their pricing strategies. In addition, share buybacks of Topix firm Your browser does not support the audio element. To read the full story, subscribe to BS Premium now, at just Rs 249/ month. Key stories on business-standard.com are available only to BS Premium subscribers. Already a BS Premium subscriber?LOGIN NOW Register to read more on Business-Standard.com Among the risk factors that he listed were high attrition, lack of succession planning, (particularly for critical roles) and skilling of staff, besides outsourcing. High attrition and employee turnover pose significant operational risks, including disruption in customer services, as well as ethical issues for banks, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor M K Jain said. These issues could have an adverse financial impact on banks, Jain added while addressing board members of banks on Monday. Referring to the challenges from outsourcing, the RBI deputy governor said its risks include potential loss of control over critical operations, data security breaches and an increased dependency on third-party providers. Attrition and high employee turnover lead to loss of institutional knowledge and increase recruitment costs. Banks, Jain said, need to ensure that employees have the necessary skills and knowledge to adapt to new technologies and business practices. Risks stemming from ethical issues at the operational level can also have serious repercussions for banks, including reputational damage, legal and regulatory consequences, erosion of customer trust and an adverse financial impact, he cautioned. He also said that banks should be careful about process risks since errors, inefficiencies or breakdowns in operational processes can lead to financial losses, compliance failures or customer dissatisfaction. Also Read Former Delhi minister Satyendar Jain granted bail by SC till July 11 RBI hikes repo rate by 35 bps to 6.25%, cuts FY23 GDP forecast to 6.8% RBI MPC: Here is what experts have to say about the policy announcement MPC lowers projection for inflation, raises growth outlook a bit in FY24 RBI Monetary Policy: Repo rate up by 25 bps, FY23 inflation pegged at 6.5% Stringent rules for education loans turn parents towards gold loans RBI Dy Guv calls for better risk management, governance at banks Rs 500 note tightens hold as most circulated currency, show RBI data SBI Card plans to raise Rs 3,000 cr from debentures to fund business growth Certificates of deposit issuances jumped three-fold in FY23: RBI data "Effective risk management, governance, and compliance practices are essential in safeguarding the bank's reputation, financial stability, and long-term viability," MK Jain said in a speech at the conference of directors of state-run and private banks on May 22 and May 29, respectively. The boards of Indian banks must pursue robust risk management strategies and emphasise compliance and effective governance while preparing for any potential risks, a deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India said. The RBI has been urging banks to adopt effective risk management practices and strengthen their governance standards to avoid financial instability. The speech was uploaded to the central bank's website on Wednesday. Effective governance requires a competent and independent board that oversees the management by asking pertinent questions and formulating appropriate strategies while keeping in mind the risk appetite, Jain said. Earlier this week, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das, had flagged that it was a matter of concern that the central bank has come across gaps in governance at certain banks, which could lead to some volatility in the sector. Also Read RBI hikes repo rate by 35 bps to 6.25%, cuts FY23 GDP forecast to 6.8% RBI MPC: Here is what experts have to say about the policy announcement Former Delhi minister Satyendar Jain granted bail by SC till July 11 MPC lowers projection for inflation, raises growth outlook a bit in FY24 RBI Monetary Policy: Repo rate up by 25 bps, FY23 inflation pegged at 6.5% Rs 500 note tightens hold as most circulated currency, show RBI data SBI Card plans to raise Rs 3,000 cr from debentures to fund business growth Certificates of deposit issuances jumped three-fold in FY23: RBI data India's fiscal deficit target of 5.9% for FY24 at risk, warns Nomura Volume of Rs 500 fake notes detected up 14.6% on-year in FY23, says RBI Lenders should also take a long-term view of their business and consider the impact of decisions on their financial health, reputation, and broader societal and environmental factors, the deputy governor said. The deputy governor also sought banks to ensure that their actions comply with the intended purpose and principles of regulation and not just stick to the literal or technical interpretation. He criticised the 'Garibi Hatao' programme, a theme of India's fifth five-year plan and Indira Gandhi's election campaign in 1971. Launching a scathing attack on the Congress party, PM Modi said that the "party's strategy has been to trick the poor." This is Congress partys biggest treachery with the poor, he said. Congress strategy has been to trick the poor. People of Rajasthan have suffered due to this, PM Modi added. "Congress' 'guarantee habit' is not new; it has existed for a long time. 50 years back, Congress gave the country the 'Garibi Hatao' guarantee.he said. "The Congress government operated via remote control...There was darkness before the youth...Today, India is praised all over the world..." he stated. "How did things stand before 2014? People were protesting against corruption, there were terrorist attacks in major cities, the Congress government was afraid of building roads near borders, crime against women was rampant, and there was a superpower above the Prime Minister," he said. The Prime Minister further said that "there was a power above the PM post" and that the "Congress government was working through a remote control." Also Read LIVE updates: Growth of 8 core industries stood at 3.5% in April YoY PBKS vs MI Highlights, IPL 2023: Surya, Kishan steal the show from Punjab LIVE: Masked men had INSAS rifle, axe, reports NDTV on Punjab firing LIVE: United World Wrestling issues a strong statement on wrestlers protest LIVE updates: Security beefed up near new Parliament building in Delhi India has made giant leaps in science, tech & space research, says minister Don't take any step that would undermine sports: Anurag Thakur to wrestlers Trial court can't send foreigner to detention while granting bail: Delhi HC Odisha CM announces hike in ex-gratia amount for state govt employees Union Cabinet approves CITIIS 2.0, will support climate action goals "I had the opportunity to visit Pushkar before coming to Ajmer. Lord Brahma is known as the creator of the universe in our scriptures. With the blessings of Lord Brahma, India is entering a new era of creation. BJP-led NDA government in the Centre has completed 9 years, he said. He also offered prayers at Pushkar's famous Brahma temple prior to the rally. BJPs Maha Jansampark programme is scheduled to be held from May 31 to June 30, under which extensive public rallies and meetings will be held across Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha constituencies to mark the partys nine years of power at the Centre. With the Rajasthan Assembly elections around the corner, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a rally in Ajmer today, emphasised how the BJP-led Central government has worked for the welfare of the poor across India over the last nine years.The rally is part of the BJP's month-long outreach campaign Maha Jansampark to commemorate the party's nine years in power at the Centre. The Assam government will procure mustard seeds directly from the farmers at a higher rate under the Price Support Scheme (PSS), Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said here on Wednesday. The government has enhanced the minimum support price for mustard seeds to Rs 5,450 per quintal as against the existing market rate of Rs 4500-Rs 4800 per quintal which will bring an additional income of Rs 250 crore to the farmers of the state, Sarma told reporters here. There are currently two procurement centres -- Raha in Nagaon district and Amingaon in Kamrup -- but the state government has decided to also use the 92 existing paddy procurement centres along with the nine centres of agricultural marketing for the purpose, Sarma said. The procurement will be done through the Assam State Agricultural Board and Assam Food and Civil Supplies Corporation as the state-level agencies and NAFED as the central agency, he said. The procurement period will be from May 29 to August 26 and the bank details of the farmers will be shared with NAFED, and within three days of procurement the amounts will be credited to their accounts, he said. "After procurement of paddy at support price, we have decided to extend it to the mustard farmers as this will boost the agriculture sector and also inspire them to go for a second cropping," he said. Also Read Himanta Biswa Sarma launches Mission Lifestyle for Environment in Assam Assam CM Himanta announces projects worth Rs 856 cr for Morigaon district Govt rebuts activists claims on violations in GM mustard appraisal No information when delimitation will be over, says Assam CM Himanta Sarma Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma attends Mega Bihu programme at Tezpur IMD issues yellow alert for Delhi, heatwaves likely to return in Bihar Govt working on 3-pronged approach to restore peace in Manipur: Report Plea in SC against HC verdict on RBI decision on Rs 2,000 banknote exchange Mamata takes to streets to protest 'manhandling' of wrestlers in Delhi Farmers' body writes to PMO against WHO's advice to replace tobacco farming The state government will next extend the enhanced support price scheme to the dairy farmers, Sarma added. In a report, Wall Street Journal (WSJ) said that China's action came in response to the unfair treatment of Chinese journalists which was meted out by the Indian side. China on Wednesday informed that it had taken 'appropriate' action over the treatment of Indian journalists. The latest episode has now highlighted the tense relations that the two neighbouring countries share. The Allahabad High Court has ruled that citizens have the right to keep or change their names according to personal preferences, and this comes within the ambit of the Constitution. Justice Ajay Bhanot made the observation on a writ petition filed by one Sameer Rao challenging the UP Madhyamik Siksha Parishad's rejection of his application to get his name changed in the high school and intermediate examination certificates. The high court directed the UP Madhyamik Siksha Parishad to allow the petitioner to change his name from "Shahnawaz" to "Mohammad Sameer Rao" and issue fresh high school and intermediate certificates incorporating the change. "The authorities arbitrarily rejected the application for change of name and misdirected themselves in law. The action of the authorities violates the fundamental rights of the petitioner guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a), Article 21 and Article 14 of the Constitution of India," the court said. The name of the petitioner was recorded as "Shahnawaz" in the examination certificates issued in 2013 and 2015 respectively. In 2020, the petitioner publicly disclosed that his name has been changed from "Shahnawaz" to "Mohammad Sameer Rao". Thereafter, he applied for changing his name in the certificates which was declined by the regional secretary of the Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad's Bareilly office. Following this, the petitioner moved court. Also Read UP govt likely to table supplementary Budget in today's Assembly session Centre notifies appointment of Chief Justices for four high courts 'The Kerala Story' to be made tax-free in Uttar Pradesh, after MP Use of tech in judicial system ensures transparency, productivity: CM Sukhu North Carolina-based First Citizens to acquire troubled Silicon Valley Bank India, China review LAC situation; discuss ways for disengagement Telangana launches State Anti-Narcotics, State Cyber Security Bureaus 'Morgan Stanley study on change under Modi indictment of UPA's lost decade' Assam cabinet decides to expand food security net, changes income criteria Guj saw 44% dip in road accidents in 10 yrs despite rise in vehicle numbers The civil aviation ministry has come out with a draft bill for putting in place a simplified approach for regulations pertaining to the aviation sector. The Draft Aircraft Bill, 2023, has been prepared after reviewing the existing Aircraft Act, 1934. As per the preamble of the Draft Aircraft Bill, 2023, it aims to have an Act to make better provisions for regulation and control of the design, manufacture, possession, use, operation, sale, import and export of aircraft and for connected matters. The bill has been issued by the ministry for public consultations for a period of 30 days, according to a communication dated May 30. "The existing Aircraft Act, 1934 has been reviewed and accordingly a bill providing for regulating provisions in a simplified manner, identifying existing redundancies and to provide for provisions to meet the current needs for regulation of civil aviation in a simplified language...," the ministry said. According to the preamble, it is expedient to make better provisions for regulation and control of the design, manufacture, possession, use, operation, sale, import and export of aircraft and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto, and to remove the redundancies in the Aircraft Act, 1934. Also Read DoPT asks UPSC to recruit private sector specialists for top jobs India to join international climate action in civil aviation from 2027 A challenge to maintain, better India's aviation safety ranking: DGCA chief Amid record aircraft orders, aviation remains a long-term play: Analysts DGCA plans to hire 400 tech staff in 1-2 yrs; increase offices to 19: Chief National electricity plan: Rs 33.60 trn needed for power generation Assam govt to procure mustard seeds under price support scheme: Himanta IMD issues yellow alert for Delhi, heatwaves likely to return in Bihar Govt working on 3-pronged approach to restore peace in Manipur: Report Plea in SC against HC verdict on RBI decision on Rs 2,000 banknote exchange India is one of the fastest-growing civil aviation markets in the world. In the wrestlers-WFI chief case, Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chief Swati Maliwal has summoned the DCP, New Delhi district after a video was found circulating on social media wherein a person claiming to be the uncle of the minor survivor has revealed her identity which is a criminal offence as per the POCSO Act. "The accused (Singh) in the matter is highly influential and has not been arrested till date. The Hon'ble Supreme Court, considering the sensitivity of the case, and direct threat to the survivors, especially the minor one, had directed the police to provide them security. In such a scenario, the act of revealing the minor survivor's identity has to be dealt with seriously," read the summons. Maliwal has asked the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) New Delhi, Pranav Tayal to appear before the commission on June 2 with the copy of enquiry whether the WFI chief is in any way linked to the act of revealing the identity of the minor. The women wrestlers had approached the Supreme Court and two FIRs were registered on April 28, one under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for allegedly sexually harassing a minor girl and another for sexual harassment of other complainants against WFI chief. --IANS ssh/dpb Also Read BJP demands Swati Maliwal's removal after court orders framing of charges Farmers breaks through barricades to join wrestlers' protest in Delhi Delhi court grants bail to man accused of dragging DCW chief Swati Maliwal Delhi HC stays trial court proceedings against DCW chief Swati Maliwal Delhi: Multi-layer security cover in place for Republic Day celebrations Nepal PM Prachanda embarks on official visit to India, to meet PM Modi CM Mann congratulates newly-inducted ministers as they get portfolios Man posing as IAS officer in PMO held for after attending event in Pune Meghalaya govt reconstitutes committee reviewing state reservation policy Not found sufficient evidence to arrest Brij Bhushan: Delhi Police The Delhi High Court Wednesday dismissed with costs a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the appointment of professor Yogesh Singh as the Vice Chancellor of Delhi University. A bench of Chief Justice Satish Kumar Sharma and Justice Subramonium Prasad refused to allow the petitioner to withdraw the plea, which was filed on the basis of news reports and in which reckless allegations were levelled. We will not permit you to withdraw it (the petition) when the President of India is involved The kind of reckless allegation you have made in your petition... Very sorry we will not permit you to withdraw. Based on newspaper clippings you have filed a PIL so you have to face the consequences, the bench said. It (news report) is not Bhagwad Gita, with due respect. Dismiss with costs, the bench said, without specifying how much cost it was imposing on the petitioner. Petitioner organisation 'Forum of Indian Legists' claimed Singh was appointed as the vice chancellor (VC) of Delhi University in violation of rules and that he was not having requisite experience. The petitioner's counsel referred to news reports claiming that only Singh's name was sent for consideration to the President of India who is the visitor of the central university. Also Read Amartya Sen-Visva Bharati land row turns into political slugfest in WB Muslims wear mask of tolerance to get vice-prez, governor posts: Baghel Iqbal composed 'Sare Jahan Se Acha' but never believed in it: DU V-C No official communication to colleges yet regarding 4-year hons in UG level Guv vs govt, Vizhinjam violence, double murder stirred Kerala in 2022 Kejriwal approves Rs 10 lakh compensation for family of murdered girl Civil aviation ministry comes with draft aircraft bill to simplify rules National electricity plan: Rs 33.60 trn needed for power generation Assam govt to procure mustard seeds under price support scheme: Himanta IMD issues yellow alert for Delhi, heatwaves likely to return in Bihar However, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Additional Solicitor General Vikramjit Banerjee, who appeared for the authorities, asserted a panel containing the names of five eligible candidates was submitted to the President to choose the VC from among them. They also filed an affidavit to this effect during the day. Mehta said the petition has been filed almost two years after Singh took over as the VC. The incumbent VC will complete two years on the post this September. A public spirited NGO should be more vigilant, he said. The high court said there was no evidence to back the allegations levelled in the PIL which was based on newspaper reports. The Allahabad High Court on Wednesday dismissed the plea of the Anjuman Intezamia Committee, which represents the Muslim side in the Gyanvapi Shrinagar Gauri case, challenging the maintainability of the Hindu side's case. The Hindu worshippers requested permission for daily worship of Hindu deities in the Gyanvapi mosque. The high court has rejected the mosque committee's challenge to the 5 Hindu women worshippers' suit pending before the Varanasi court. Last year in December, the bench of Justice J.J. Munir reserved its judgment after hearing counsel for both parties at length. With this, the court has upheld the September 12, 2022 order of the Varanasi court, holding the said suit to be maintainable. The Masjid Committee had moved the High Court in October 2022, days after the Varanasi court dismissed its plea (filed under Order 7 Rule 11 CPC) challenging the maintainability of a suit filed by five Hindu women (plaintiffs) seeking worshipping rights in the Gyanvapi compound. Also Read Gyanvapi row: Allahabad court to hear petition filed by waqf board today Allahabad HC grants bail to man who threatened to demolish Gyanvapi Gyanvapi case: Court to hear plea seeking survey of tahkhanas on Jan 23 Allahabad High Court reserves verdict in Gyanvapi mosque case Gyanvapi: ASI slammed for not filling report on carbon dating of Shivling China takes 'approriate' action, denies visas to 2 Indian journalists Himachal CM seeks Rs 1,000 cr from Centre for greenfield Mandi airport Bengal govt introduces 4-year UG honours course from this academic year Haryana CM Khattar to meet Himachal counterpart over water issues Delhi govt moves SC against NGT order of LG to monitor waste management In the order, Varanasi District Judge Ajay Krishna Vishwesha had observed that the suit of the plaintiffs is not barred by the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, The Waqf Act 1995, and the U.P. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Act, 1983 as was being claimed by the Anjuman Masjid Committee (which manages Gyanvapi Masjid). --IANS amita/vd The working mechanism for consultation and coordination on India-China Border affairs (WMCC) on Wednesday reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas and discussed proposals for disengagement in remaining areas in a frank and open manner. The 27th meeting of the WMCC was attended by the Joint Secretary (East Asia) from the External Affairs Ministry, who led the Indian delegation. During the in-person meeting held in Delhi, both sides noted that restoration of peace and tranquility will create conditions for normalising bilateral relations. In order to achieve this objective, in accordance with existing bilateral agreements and protocols, the two sides agreed to hold the next (19th) round of senior commanders meeting at an early date. The two sides also agreed to continue discussions through military and diplomatic channels. The Chinese delegation was led by the director general of boundary and oceanic affairs in the department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Also Read Proposal of disengagement discussed in India-China border talks India and China discuss disengagement at remaining friction points Elon Musk begins second day of China visit after emphasizing ties We have to take disengagement process forward: Jaishankar on Ladakh row Indicators suggest Pak's economic situation would worsen in future: Report Telangana launches State Anti-Narcotics, State Cyber Security Bureaus 'Morgan Stanley study on change under Modi indictment of UPA's lost decade' Assam cabinet decides to expand food security net, changes income criteria Guj saw 44% dip in road accidents in 10 yrs despite rise in vehicle numbers India conducts Asia's 1st performance-based helicopter navigation: Scindia --IANS ans/pgh The image shows an object believed to be part of North Korea's "space launch vehicle" that was retrieved from the Yellow Sea, Wednesday. Courtesy of Joint Chiefs of Staff North Korea's launch of a "space launch vehicle" may have failed due to a technical problem caused by "excessive change of the projectile's route," South Korea's spy agency said Wednesday. The National Intelligence Service (NIS) delivered this information during a briefing to the parliamentary intelligence committee. Earlier in the day, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff said it detected the launch from Tongchang-ri on the North's west coast at 6:29 a.m. The projectile then flew over the waters far west of the South's border island of Baengyeong before falling into waters some 200 kilometers west of the southwestern island of Eocheong, it said. The North confirmed the failure, saying its new "Chollima-1" rocket carrying a military reconnaissance satellite, "Malligyong-1," fell into the sea due to the "abnormal starting of the second-stage engine." "The NIS report suggested a technical glitch may have occurred because the projectile was set up to fly a route leaning toward the west but had to make an excessive change of route toward the east through lateral motion," Rep. Yoo Sang-bum of the ruling People Power Party told reporters after the closed-door briefing. The agency also cited the North's premature launch as possibly being connected to the failure. North Korea shortened the preparation period and fired its projectile from the launch center in Tongchang-ri, which has not been fully constructed, after South Korea successfully launched its homegrown space rocket Nuri last week, according to the NIS. It also said North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is assumed to have observed the launch in person from a nearby place since vehicles and tents for spectators were identified near the observation deck, located 1.3 km away from the launch site. The "Chollima-1" rocket is assessed to be a new type of projectile using an engine for intercontinental ballistic missiles, while the "Malligyong-1" is a 1.3 meter-long small low-orbit satellite weighing 300 kilograms that can only conduct basic reconnaissance activities, Yoo said. The NIS believes it will take weeks for the North to fix the engine problems before it could conduct a second launch but said the possibility of an early launch cannot be ruled out unless the defects are major. If a second launch were to take place, the North may change the launch site to a previously trusted location, it added. The North's official Korean Central News Agency said Pyongyang plans to conduct a second launch as soon as possible. (Yonhap) Also Read Sensex snaps 4-day losing run, gains 160 pts; PSU bank index leaps 4% Sensex surges 403 pts; Nifty tops 18,600; PSU Bank index leaps 4%, IT 1% Adani Enterprises, RBI policy takes Nifty above 17,850, Sensex leaps 378pts Sensex leaps 446 pts, Nifty tops 17,100 as RIL, Bajaj Fin gain 3%; IT slips Sensex rises 170 pts, Nifty tops 17,800; GSFC leaps 20%, MCX crashes 6% Don't take any step that would undermine sports: Anurag Thakur to wrestlers Trial court can't send foreigner to detention while granting bail: Delhi HC Odisha CM announces hike in ex-gratia amount for state govt employees Union Cabinet approves CITIIS 2.0, will support climate action goals Canada gives second chance to 700 Indian students who were victims of fraud The Union Minister of State (independent charge) for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh addressed the 46th Induction Programme for new recruits at the ministry by sharing the significant scientific progress made by the country in the past nine years during Prime Minister Narendra Modi tenure. Here are some of the biggest accomplishments over the last decade.During the Covid-19 pandemic, Indian pharmaceutical companies developed vaccines in a short time, effectively combating the spread of the virus. These vaccines were not only used domestically but also exported to the developed world and fulfilled World Health Organisation (WHO) commitments.The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) played a key role in the 'Mission Covid-19 Suraksha' initiative, which resulted in the development of four vaccines: ZyCoV-D (DNA vaccine), CORBEVAXTM (protein subunit vaccine), GEMCOVAC-19 (mRNA vaccine), and iNCOVACC (intranasal Covid-19 vaccine). This was an estimated Rs 900 crore initiative, part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat 3.0 package.India's Global Innovation Index (GII) ranking significantly improved, moving from 81st in 2015 to 40th in 2022 among 130 economies worldwide.India ranks ninth globally in terms of resident patent filings, and the participation of women in extramural research and development has doubled in the past nine years.The country has made significant advancements in renewable energy, ranking fourth globally in renewable energy installed capacity, wind power capacity, and solar power capacity.India also holds the third position globally in terms of the number of startups at 77,000 and unicorns at 107.The Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) in India has tripled over the past decade.India's defence exports grew by 334 per cent in the last five years, reaching a record of Rs 13,000 crore in the financial year 2021-22. India is now exporting defence equipment to more than 75 countries.The space sector reforms have led to the emergence of 102 startups engaged in cutting-edge areas such as space debris management, nano-satellites, launch vehicles, and ground systems.India has also become a major contributor to global food production, particularly in food grain, horticulture, and livestock-poultry sectors thanks to the innovation done in these fields. Last year the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) reportedly produced more than 339,000 qt. of seeds and 147.56 million saplings, seedlings, and livestock strains, made available for farmers.The National Quantum Mission (NQM) was also recently approved by the union cabinet. This will aim to establish a vibrant and innovative ecosystem in quantum technology (QT). The mission includes the development of intermediate-scale quantum computers, secure quantum communications, and a multi-node Quantum network with quantum memories. Boosting India-Nepal cooperation in areas of energy, connectivity and trade is set to be the focus of talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart Pushpakamal Dahal 'Prachanda' on Thursday. Hours after arriving in Delhi on Wednesday afternoon on a four-day visit to India, 'Prachanda' said at an event in the Nepalese embassy that both sides are keen to expand the overall ties and indicated that a number of agreements are likely to be firmed following his talks with Modi. Separately, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval called on the Nepalese leader and discussed various aspects of India-Nepal ties. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra was also present in the meeting. It is Prachanda's first bilateral trip abroad after assuming the top office in December 2022. "We are committed to strengthening ties between the two countries," the Nepalese prime minister said at the event at the embassy. Nepalese Foreign Minister N P Saud, who is part of Prachanda's delegation, said a wide range of matters, including trade, transit, connectivity and border issues will figure in the bilateral talks on Thursday. Also Read Nepal PM 'Prachanda' expands cabinet to 23 with 6 women in ministry Nepal PM to visit India soon; Prachanda's first foreign trip after polls Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda set to take oath as Nepal's new PM today Nepal's PM to expand cabinet, Congress to get key ministerial portfolios Nepal PM Prachanda to embark on 4-day official visit to India on May 31 Action to be taken once probe is over: Rajnath Singh Brij Bhushan Singh row Meiteis, Kukis urge Centre to control situation in violence-hit Manipur 7 more cheetahs to be released in Kuno National Park by June third week Health ministry deploys several teams of doctors to violence-hit Manipur Haryana CM Khattar announces Rs 181 crore to farmers for crop damage Nepal is important for India in the context of its overall strategic interests in the region, and the leaders of the two countries have often noted the age-old "Roti Beti" relationship. Transforming the civilizational ties between India and Nepal with deeper cooperation in areas of connectivity, economy, energy and infrastructure is expected to be a focus area of talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prachanda on Thursday, people familiar with the matter said. One of the key priority areas would be to further deepen the power sector cooperation through new initiatives across the entire spectrum of cooperation, they said. The India-Nepal joint vision statement on power sector cooperation of April last year is considered a milestone and Nepal has been exporting over 450 MW of electricity to India. The two prime ministers are also likely to review the India-Nepal development partnership which forms the key pillar of the bilateral relations. Strengthening the financial connectivity between the two countries would be a discussion point, said one of the people cited above. In April last year, RuPay card was launched in Nepal during the visit of then Nepalese PM Sher Bahadur Deuba to India. Prachanda was received at the airport in Delhi by Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi. Previously, he visited India in 2016 and in 2008 in his capacity as the Nepalese prime minister. "PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted. A high-level delegation is accompanying Prachanda. He and Prime Minister Modi will hold talks on Thursday following which both sides are expected to ink a number of agreements. The Nepalese prime minister is also scheduled to call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. Nepal is considered an important country for New Delhi as it shares a border of over 1,850 km with five Indian states Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The land-locked nation relies heavily on India for the transportation of goods and services. Nepal's access to the sea is through India, and it imports a predominant proportion of its requirements from and through India. The India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950 forms the bedrock of the special relations between the two countries. On Friday morning, the Nepalese prime minister will travel to Indore and will leave for Kathmandu the next day. By Jayshree P Upadhyay (Reuters) - India's top financial regulators are asking entities from mutual funds to brokers to banks to tighten their supervision and have also added fresh regulations as they prepare for a review by the global money-laundering watchdog, according to three sources. The Financial Action Task Force, an inter-governmental organisation to combat money laundering, is due to conduct an onsite review of India's regulations and supervision in November. While India is compliant with FATF regulations, any gaps found in its preparedness to combat money laundering could lead to adverse comments or, at worst, impact its rating and make it costlier for global firms to do business in the country. "Any drop in ratings can affect India and its institutions' ability to do business with global financial institutions," said an industry official. The official and other sources declined to be named as they are not authorised to speak to the media. The FATF rates India 'compliant', the highest of its three-tier rating scale that includes 'grey' and 'black'. That review was in 2010 and a fresh one has been delayed due to COVID-19. Also Read CAs, CSes concerned about new tweaks in anti-money laundering law Market regulator Sebi increases scrutiny of Adani group deals: Sources Delhi HC seeks ED stand on plea by Sukesh against money laundering charges Changes in anti-money laundering law can impact foreign investment: CAs IL&FS money laundering case: ED issues fresh summons to NCP's Jayant Patil Inderbir Nijjar resigns from Punjab cabinet, two new MLAs to be sworn in Delhi to get 1,500 electric buses by end of 2023; says Kailash Gahlot Khap panchayat to discuss future course of action, says Naresh Tikait Forest dept has prepared mapping system to control forest fires: HP CM Bengaluru civic agency galvanised to face rains, floods: BBMP chief To ensure that it maintains the top-tier rating, India's market regulator has, since January this year, tweaked a number of rules to meet FATF requirements, said a regulatory official. The Securities and Exchange Board of India has made chief executives of broking houses directly responsible for monitoring suspicious transactions. It has asked broking houses and asset management companies (AMC) to set up an institutional mechanism to handle fraudulent transactions and made the chiefs of AMCs accountable to curb front running. The SEBI has also asked all the entities it regulates for a list of clients, how often they check for suspicious transactions and the steps taken to investigate or monitor them, among other details, an industry official said. The data submitted is being analysed for "any gaps in responsiveness towards suspicious transactions," the official said. Other regulators are conducting a similar exercise, the regulatory official said. "All these changes are aimed to strengthen the monitoring of suspicious transactions and show our efforts towards FATF compliance," said the regulatory official. Not just regulators, but even the government has stepped up to plug gaps by expanding coverage of India's Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to bring professionals such as auditors, company secretaries and directors under its fold. In March, offshore funds were also asked to recognise holders of more than 10% in the fund as ultimate beneficial owners and report them. Preparedness is being monitored at the highest level via a special committee which includes representatives from the finance ministry and regulators, said the regulatory official. (Reporting by Jayshree P Upadhyay; Editing by Savio D'Souza) Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday announced that he has submitted the file on a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the family of 16-year-old Sakshi, who was brutally murdered by Sahil in Outer North Delhi's Shahbad Dairy. "I have approved and sent the file to the Honorable LG to support Sakshi's family with an amount of Rs 10 lakhs. We stand with her family and will support them in every possible way," Kejriwal tweeted on Wednesday. On Tuesday, Kejriwal had announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for Sakshi's family. "The Delhi government will provide financial assistance of ten lakh rupees to Sakshi's family and make every effort to ensure that the guilty party receives the harshest punishment through the court. Prominent lawyers will be mobilized for this cause," Kejriwal tweeted. Sakshi was brutally killed by Sahil on Sunday evening. Sahil, a mechanic repairing fridges and ACs, was later arrested in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh. CCTV footage of the murder also surfaced on social media, showing Sahil stabbing the victim. Also Read Netflix adds new game 'Shredder's Revenge' on iOS, Android smartphones Shahbad Dairy Murder: Breakup drove Sahil to kill minor girl, say police 11-year-old Kerala girl develops unique eye scanning app that uses AI Rajasthan plans to distribute scooters to 30,000 meritorious girl students Moosewala murder mastermind Goldy Brar detained in California: Report Civil aviation ministry comes with draft aircraft bill to simplify rules National electricity plan: Rs 33.60 trn needed for power generation Assam govt to procure mustard seeds under price support scheme: Himanta IMD issues yellow alert for Delhi, heatwaves likely to return in Bihar Govt working on 3-pronged approach to restore peace in Manipur: Report Around seven to eight bystanders were present, but none bothered to intervene. A man wearing a dark red shirt attempted to intervene, but Sahil pushed him away. In the video, Sahil continues to stab the girl while also issuing threats to the bystanders, causing them to disperse. After stabbing her, Sahil kicks the girl multiple times and then strikes her with a boulder five times. He briefly leaves the scene but returns shortly after. He strikes the girl with the boulder once again, kicks her multiple times, and then finally leaves, as seen in the video. Sahil is currently in police custody, where he is being interrogated to determine the exact reasons behind the murder. --IANS atk/bg The Kerala government will soon implement a comprehensive geriatric care programme to address the health issues of elderly population in the state, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said here on Wednesday. He directed the officials concerned to compile a draft for the same after consulting with various departments, a CMO statement said here. Vijayan was speaking while chairing a high-level meeting of the Aardram Mission, which envisages to completely transform the public health sector of the southern state. The state's old age policy would be revised in accordance with the time, the Chief Minister said during the meeting, it said. A comprehensive rehabilitation policy would also be formulated to rehabilitate those who are confined to their homes due to physical ailments following accidents or diseases, he said. The Chief Minister further directed the officials to complete the construction of isolation wards in the state at the earliest and set up de-addiction centres in all districts. Also Read Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan calls on Centre to set up AIIMS in Kozhikode Vijayan meets envoys of UAE, Vietnam at Kerala House in Delhi Vijayan to go slow on case against 7 Oppn MLAs for Assembly fiasco: Rpt LDF Govt comes out with "Real Kerala Story" ad on 2nd anniversary day Fuel price hike comes into effect, UDF observes 'black day' in Kerala OTT platforms to display anti-tobacco warnings similar to cinema theatres ED attaches Rs 124 cr worth assets of Surana Group in bank loan fraud Singapore, India explore possibility of widening engagement in education No desire to fight WFI polls, only standing with wrestlers: Deepender Hooda Skill-Lync partners with TN Skill Development Corp to train 10,000 students Kerala would become a complete palliative care state soon, Vijayan said, adding that steps are also being taken to eradicate various diseases including malaria, tuberculosis, Kala-azar (parasitic disease) and so on. Besides Vijayan, Health Minister Veena George, Chief Secretary V P Joy and various senior officials of the health department also took part in the meeting, the statement added. The meeting led by Amit Shah emphasised the government's commitment to maintaining law and order, providing relief measures, and addressing the ongoing ethnic clashes. The recent visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah to Manipur has resulted in significant developments aimed at restoring peace and normalcy in the state. During his visit, Shah held meetings with the Manipur cabinet, Kuki tribal leaders, security forces, and administration officials. Review of the security situation Here are the key takeaways from the home ministers visit to Manipur so far, as reported by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Relief for families Home Minister reviewed the security situation in Manipur with senior officials from Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and the Indian Army. He called for the improvement of law and order and the restoration of normalcy in the state. Further emphasised that the peace and prosperity of Manipur is the top priority. Also Read As Manipur reels from violence, home minister Shah to visit the state today Tribal protest in Manipur turns violent; curfew imposed, internet suspended Shielding governance failure will not resolve Manipur's problems Manipur violence: Long-standing issue of ST status for Meitei torches state LIVE: Covid-19 no longer represents a global health emergency, says WHO Manipur: Shah visits border town Moreh, meets Kukis, other communities Service delays on Delhi Metro's magenta line for 2 hrs due to signal issues U'khand police asks pilgrims to stagger visit to Char Dham to reduce rush Nepal PM Prachanda arrives in Delhi, receives warm welcome by MoS Lekhi Gyanvapi: HC dismisses Muslim side's plea on right to worship inside mosque The cabinet has also promised a relief package of 20 tonne rice for the tribal communities in Manipur. In the cabinet meeting, it was also decided to expedite relief measures for affected individuals and families. A compensation of Rs 10 lakh is to be provided to families of those who lost their lives in the ethnic clashes along with a job for one family member. Opening communication lines The state government had suspended internet services during the growing violence. The cabinet meeting over the last two days decided to re-open BSNL telephone lines to dispel rumours and facilitate clear and effective communication. Directive for strict action Minister Amit Shah has instructed officials to deal strictly with activities that disturb peace in Manipur. The cabinet has also decided to initiate a probe into the violence by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Meetings and engagements Minister Shah held meetings with the Manipur cabinet, Governor, security forces, and administration officials. The cabinet also held discussions with civil society organisations, women leaders, and student organisations. These meetings and discussions focused on evaluating the security situation, engaging with civil society organisations and political leaders, and gathering insights from prominent personalities. The decisions and steps taken aimed to address the challenges faced by Manipur and work towards restoring peace, stability, and prosperity in the state. On the second day of the visit, Shah chaired an all-party meeting in Imphal and appealed to political leaders to contribute to restoring normalcy and communal harmony in the state. Assurances and initiatives Reiterated the government's commitment to preserving the territorial integrity of Manipur and ensuring that it is not affected. The cabinet urged civil society leaders to actively participate in bringing peace to the state. They further assured a political solution to the situation and intend to conduct a CBI probe into the violence. About ethnic clashes and protests in Manipur The violence in Manipur was sparked by a decision made by the Manipur high court on April 27. The court directed that the Meitei community, which makes up 53 per cent of the state's population and is the dominant community, would be included in the Scheduled Tribes list. Prior to the violence, there were tensions over the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land, leading to smaller protests. This decision triggered protests by mostly tribal Kukis, who took to the streets starting from May 3. They organised a tribal solidarity march to express their opposition to the court's decision. Manipur's population consists of Meiteis, who make up 53 per cent and predominantly live in the Imphal Valley, and tribal communities such as Nagas and Kukis, who constitute around 40 per cent of the population and reside in the hill districts. In response to the situation, the army has been deployed in the region since May 4. Thousands of security personnel have been patrolling major cities and remote villages. Curfews have been imposed in various parts of the state, and internet services have been suspended for over three weeks. More than 80 people have lost their lives in the ongoing ethnic clashes. Discoms feeling uncomfortable with increasing solar footprint, policies governing solar energy sector being unclear, and slow uptake of rooftop solar power systems -- these are some of the issues holding back the growth of solar energy in the country. In a webinar organised by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) on Wednesday to better understand net metering for consumers in India, which is considered crucial for increasing private investments in solar energy, experts discussed the various problems affecting the sector and the way forward. Explaining the concept of net metering while moderating the online discussion, Maitreyi Karthik, deputy programme manager of renewable energy at CSE, said it applies to consumers who have a grid connection with enough rooftop space and load available at a particular location. One of the participants, bureaucrat Manu Srivastava pointed out that power consumers are currently facing a number of problems that has slowed down the growth of solar energy sector in India. "The biggest reason is the resistance shown by discoms. And the way to overcome this is moving away from net metering, which gives all the advantage to the consumers to net billing, which also takes into consideration the interests of discoms. In net billing, the rates are flexible and decided by discoms," said Srivastava, principal secretary, technical education, skill development and employment department of Madhya Pradesh government. Jay C Shiv, programme director, renewable energy, CSE, said: "Installation of more than 53 gigawatt (GW) of ground-mounted solar PV has been achieved against the target of 60 GW; however, the progress for solar rooftop projects is only 9 GW against the target of 40 GW." A parliamentary panel, in a report in March, attributed low installation of solar rooftop and wind energy projects as key reasons for the shortfall in achieving India's renewable energy capacity target by 2022. However, renewable energy capacity of 120.90 GW has been installed in the country as of December 31, 2022 which is about 69 per cent of the overall target, the Standing Committee on Energy said in its report. Also Read Ecofy, Mahindra Solarize team up for rooftop solar financing, installation Rooftop solar for poverty alleviation Jindal Stainless to invest Rs 120 cr to set up two rooftop solar projects Rooftop solar installations fall due to supply chain disruptions: MNRE Min India to triple renewable projects auctions as 2030 green target looms OTT platforms to display anti-tobacco warnings similar to cinema theatres ED attaches Rs 124 cr worth assets of Surana Group in bank loan fraud Kerala to implement comprehensive geriatric care programme: CM Vijayan Singapore, India explore possibility of widening engagement in education No desire to fight WFI polls, only standing with wrestlers: Deepender Hooda Meanwhile, Tirupur-based solar energy company Mangla Smart Energy Solutions CEO Vimal Kumar, another participant, said the government should look beyond capital subsidy. "I think there should be a stronger, technically sound policy for the entire country," he opined. Kumar also felt that the intentions should be well thought out when framing billing mechanisms. "For instance, in Tamil Nadu there is something called network charges, which is 1.48 paise for a unit generated. This is very high and this charge is also calculated on the expected units which are mostly more than the actual ones shown on the inverter," Kumar said. He also flagged the lengthy and time-consuming process for approvals of larger capacity rooftop solar setups. Sunit Mathur, general manager of Rajasthan Renewable Energy Corporation Limited, agreed that solar energy sector lacks a level playing field. Despite it being clean, green, and sustainable, the solar sector does not have clear-cut policies to support its growth, he added. Besides, Srivastava also chimed in saying that constant changes in policies confuse the consumers. "To give an example, in the net metering, initially the consumers were allowed 1 MW. This came down to 10 KW, which was nothing. Now, the 2020 amendment of the Electricity (Rights of Consumer) Rules, minimum is set at 500 KW, with states given the right to decide what is best for them. This can be very confusing to people," he added. Kumar summed up the webinar stating that before going for energy sustainability, the country needs to work on a sustainable policy first. "And the government should do what it can to encourage people, as the return on investment in this sector can be achieved only in 10 to 12 years. For instance, there is a lot of talk on giving some kind of special privileges to people who have signed up for both electric vehicles and solar photovoltaics in Tamil Nadu. This can be a game changer here," the solar energy firm owner said. Large difference in performance of students from various boards, significant variation in pass percentages and no level playing field for students in terms of standard are among the challenges identified by the Ministry of Education in an assessment of classes 10 and 12 exam results. The assessment has also pointed out that top five boards (Uttar Pradesh, CBSE, Maharashtra, Bihar and West Bengal) cover about 50 per cent of students and the rest 50 per cent students are enrolled in 55 boards across the country. The study noted that the deviation in performance might be due to different patterns followed by boards and convergence of secondary and higher secondary boards into a single board in a state can help students. The assessment also found that different syllabi followed by boards have created barriers for national level entrance tests. According to School Education Secretary, Sanjay Kumar, the difference between pass percentages of various states has led the education ministry to now look at standardising the assessment pattern for all 60 school boards across various states in the country. Currently, there are three central boards in India - Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) and the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS). Apart from these, various states have their own state boards, taking the total number of school boards to 60. Also Read School boards across states to have similar sets of questions soon: Report US univs attract Indian students with quality education, better prospects Assam boards question paper sold for up to Rs 3,000 on WhatsApp: Police DoPT asks UPSC to recruit private sector specialists for top jobs Bharat's foreign education dream gets bigger but is coming at a cost West Bengal school jobs scam accused Sujay Krishna Bhadra arrested by ED Latest LIVE NEWS: Early morning rain lashes parts of national capital Delhi Top headlines: 41% of FAME II target met, cut in Byju's valuation and more Delhi govt provides honorarium of Rs 1 cr to family of Corona warrior 'No need for Netaji, Bhagat Singh, Khudiram Bose in movie on Savarkar' Noting that the pass percentages vary significantly among boards, the study report points out that in senior secondary exams, while Meghalaya has a pass percentage of 57 per cent, Kerala has a pass percentage of 99.85 per cent. The report also noted that 11 states contribute to 85 per cent of school dropouts. These states are UP, Bihar, MP, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Assam, West Bengal, Haryana and Chhattisgarh. Among possible causes for higher failure rate in state boards pointed out in the report include less number of trained teachers and teachers per school. This contributes to low Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) and also affects India's overall rank in global indices. The report analysed the Class 10 and 12 results for state boards of Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Karnataka, Kerala, Manipur, Odisha, West Bengal and Telangana to understand the variation in results for different state boards. The report has also recommended that state boards may converge science syllabus with the central boards so that students have level playing field for common exams like JEE and NEET. The other reason behind this standardisation attempt is to contain the dropouts at the level of class 10. "Thirty five lakh students of Class 10 are not reaching Class 11, 27.5 lakh students are failing and 7.5 lakh students are not appearing for the exam," the report said. It adds that 11 states including UP, Bihar, MP, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Assam, West Bengal, Haryana and Chhattisgarh contribute the maximum 85 percent of the dropouts. "Mapping of failing students (around 46 lakh) of regular state boards with open boards and exchange of information can help in tracking and retaining students in the education system for a longer period. Presently only 10 lakh students are registering through open schools, the report further said. "Similarly, (around 12 lakh) students registered but not appearing can be mapped with the skill development department for tracking and training them, it added. The arrested man has been identified as Vasudev Nivrutti Tayde. The Crime Branch of Pune Police has arrested a man posing as an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer assigned to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). The 54-year-old impersonator was apprehended after attending a charitable trust event in Aundh earlier this week, reported the Indian Express. According to police officials, the Pune-based organisation Borderless World Foundation held a function in the Aundh area on Monday where an ambulance was to be sent to Jammu and Kashmir as part of a charitable initiative. Tayde pretended to be Dr Vinay Deo, a Deputy Secretary with the PMO and claimed to be involved in work related to intelligence. Tayde is known to have studied for and failed the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam in the past. A person known to the organisers sent an invitation to 'Dr Vinay Deo' for the event. However, when his claims of being a PMO official sounded suspicious to some of those present at the event, they inquired about him and discovered discrepancies in his claims, a police officer told the Indian Express. Also Read Govt seeks to fill up posts with hires from non-IAS pool, sparks debate It is IAS against IPS as the Roopa vs Sindhuri battle rages on social media IAS officer with varied experience: Ravneet Kaur, first woman chief of CCI World's richest man Bernard Arnault auditions his kids to run luxury empire Why has Anand Mohan become a headache for the Nitish Kumar administration Meghalaya govt reconstitutes committee reviewing state reservation policy Not found sufficient evidence to arrest Brij Bhushan: Delhi Police Bengaluru may need Rs 2,800 cr to fix drainage, avoid flooding: Report Newly married couples get contraceptives at mass wedding in MP; sparks row Nepal PM Dahal to seek energy, new air route deals on India visit "We are now investigating how long he has been posing as an IAS officer and whether there have been any violations or if anyone has been cheated financially or otherwise by him," he added. A Crime Branch officer said that their investigation indicated that Tayde was charged with impersonating a government official by the Dhule district police in 2000 as well. Tayde was apprehended and questioned after a team from Unit 1 of the Crime Branch launched an investigation. He was apprehended outside his home. According to officials, Tayde left Dhule in the early 2000s after being charged with impersonation and later relocated to Pune. Delhi Commission for Women chief Swati Maliwal on Wednesday issued a notice to police seeking action against a man who allegedly revealed the identity of a minor wrestler who has filed a sexual harassment complaint against BJP MP and outgoing Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Maliwal has also issued summons to DCP New Delhi in the matter. "A man posing as the uncle of a minor girl who had filed a complaint against Brij Bhushan is revealing the identity of the girl by showing her documents to the press. I am giving notice to the police. There should be an FIR against this man under the POCSO Act. Are they letting Brij Bhushan roam free so that the victim can be pressured," the DCW chief tweeted in Hindi. According to the Commission, some women wrestlers, including a minor girl, have alleged that Singh sexually harassed them. Two separate FIRs have been registered against him in the matter. A video is now being circulated on social media in which a person, claiming to be the uncle of the minor complainant, reveals her identity which is a criminal offence under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, the women's panel said. It asked the police for details including a copy of FIR to be registered against the person for revealing the identity of the girl and summoned them to appear before the Commission at 12 pm in June 6. Also Read BJP demands Swati Maliwal's removal after court orders framing of charges Delhi Police detains DCW chief Swati Maliwal from Jantar Mantar protest Delhi BJP seeks Maliwal's removal for impartial probe of molestation charge Delhi court grants bail to man accused of dragging DCW chief Swati Maliwal Delhi HC stays trial court proceedings against DCW chief Swati Maliwal India, Nepal likely to ink number of pacts after Modi-Prachanda talks Action to be taken once probe is over: Rajnath Singh Brij Bhushan Singh row Meiteis, Kukis urge Centre to control situation in violence-hit Manipur 7 more cheetahs to be released in Kuno National Park by June third week Health ministry deploys several teams of doctors to violence-hit Manipur The DCW said it has also asked Delhi Police to inform the reasons for not arresting the main accused, Singh, till date. Further, it asked the police to provide a copy of enquiry report whether accused Singh is in any way linked to the act of revealing the identity of the minor survivor. The DCW chief has asked the DCP, New Delhi, to appear before the Commission on June 2 along with an action taken report in the matter. "It is shocking that the survivor who is under constant threat and Hon'ble Supreme Court has provided her security, her identity is being revealed by a person and Delhi Police is not doing anything about it. Revealing the identity of a survivor in a case registered under POCSO Act is also a criminal offence. In such a scenario, the act of revealing the minor survivor's identity must be dealt with seriously," Maliwal said. The wrestlers, who had been protesting at Jantar Mantar since April 23 seeking the arrest of Singh, were removed from the site by the police on Sunday after they tried to march to the new Parliament building during its inauguration. They were detained before being released later. The Delhi Police has filed two FIRs against Singh. While the first FIR relates to allegations by the minor wrestler and has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the second is related to outraging modesty. On Tuesday, police sources said the agitating wrestlers will not be allowed to shift to their sit-in protest to the India Gate as the national monument is not a site for demonstrations and alternative places for their dharna will be suggested. By Jun Ji-hye Korea aims to ease immigration procedures to attract more international patients who visit the country to undergo medical treatment or receive cosmetic surgery. gettyimagesbank Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday appealed to people to surrender firearms looted from security forces. He also warned of legal action against anyone found to be in unauthorised and illegal possession of arms and ammunition. In a signed statement, the chief minister also appealed to people to lift road blockades to ensure free movement of security personnel and relief material. "I appeal to all persons concerned to return and surrender the arms and ammunition which have been snatched from armed police battalions, police stations, etc., in valley and hill districts to the nearest police station/MR/IRB, etc. at the earliest. "Legal action as per the Arms Act 1959 and Rules will be taken in case any person is found to be in unauthorised and illegal possession of arms and ammunition during combing operations by security personnel or otherwise," the chief minister said. Singh said that in many places, people were found violating curfew restrictions and blocking roads, causing obstacles to the free movement of relief material for inmates in relief camps and movement of security personnel for meeting security threats from illegal armed groups in conflict areas in foothills and interior locations of the state. Also Read As Manipur reels from violence, home minister Shah to visit the state today Tribal protest in Manipur turns violent; curfew imposed, internet suspended Shielding governance failure will not resolve Manipur's problems Not targeting law-abiding owners: Canada proposes ban on assault firearms Cash-strapped Mizoram gets Bangla refugee influx; border talks with Assam Delhi discoms petition DERC, cite revenue gap to seek tariff hike Lack of clear-cut policies slow down solar rooftop projects, say experts OTT platforms to display anti-tobacco warnings similar to cinema theatres ED attaches Rs 124 cr worth assets of Surana Group in bank loan fraud Kerala to implement comprehensive geriatric care programme: CM Vijayan "Such roadblocks are increasing the hardship of the already traumatised people in relief camps, including pregnant women and young children, by halting movement of health personnel, medicine, food, milk and water meant for them," he said. "Such roadblocks are also making it extremely difficult for security and police personnel to respond to attacks by armed groups on time," the CM said. Ethnic clashes broke out in the state nearly a month ago after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. After a relative lull for over a fortnight, the state witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes, and gunfight between militants and security forces on Sunday. So far, over 80 people have been killed in the violence, according to officials. As the ethnic unrest continues in Manipur, representatives of the Meitei and Kuki communities on Wednesday sought restoration of peace in the state even as differences remained stark. Members from the Kuki-Hmar-Zomi-Mizo tribes held a protest at the Jantar Mantar here demanding that Chief Minister Biren Singh be sacked and President's rule implemented in the state. A press conference was held by representatives of the Meitei community who demanded the Centre's intervention in restoring peace in the state. Home Minister Amit Shah is in Manipur, monitoring the situation. Shah, who reached Imphal Monday night, will visit the India-Myanmar border town of Moreh in Tengnoupal district on Thursday, where he will meet Kuki civil society groups. The Kuki community members said more than 115 tribal villages, 4000 houses and 222 churches have been desecrated and burnt. They claimed Kuki houses were burnt even when Home Minister Amit Shah was in the state on May 29-30. Timothy Chongthu, a representative of the Kuki Students Organisation Delhi, said the government should look at the long standing demand of the tribal communities to have separate administration. Also Read As Manipur reels from violence, home minister Shah to visit the state today Shielding governance failure will not resolve Manipur's problems Tribal protest in Manipur turns violent; curfew imposed, internet suspended Manipur: Shah visits border town Moreh, meets Kukis, other communities Violence in Manipur a well-planned conspiracy, alleges JNU Professor 7 more cheetahs to be released in Kuno National Park by June third week Health ministry deploys several teams of doctors to violence-hit Manipur Haryana CM Khattar announces Rs 181 crore to farmers for crop damage Priyank Kharge gets IT & BT portfolio in cabinet during minor re-allocation Probe against Manish Sisodia in excise policy case complete, says ED "President's rule should be implemented in Manipur if the state government is unable to control the situation," he said. A Meitei representative, however, said the violence in Imphal valley, which is dominated by the group, was a "reaction". "People are angry and helpless," said Bobby Meetei, a representative of People's Alliance for peace and Progress Manipur. "The Kukis want to push the Meiteis to the Imphal valley so that they can demand a separate state," he claimed. Kimi Soni, a Meitei community member who is from the worst affected Churachandpur district, said she was heartbroken. "The police did not do anything for us. We were told we had to manage on our own for two nights," she claimed. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan's remark that the turmoil was due to "ethnic clashes" and not an anti-insurgency issue also drew sharp reactions from both the communities. While the Kuki representatives said it backed their claim that they are not "illegal immigrants" as being alleged, the Meitei community members felt the Army is being partisan. "The CDS said it is ethnic clashes and not insurgency, so why is the firing not stopping?" questioned Kimi. She, however, clarified that she was not claiming that the Army is taking any sides. "We are not saying they are siding with anyone, but we do not know what is happening," she said. Meitei representatives have maintained that the clashes were linked to state government's recent action against poppy plantations in the forest area, and that a number of Kukis are "illegal immigrants" from Myanmar. They also demanded implementation of National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state to weed out "illegal immigrants", and cancelation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement signed with various Kuki militant groups any further. "NRC exercise should be carried out in Manipur, that would make things clear. Getting an Aadhaar card is very easy," said Ina Khunbi, a Meitei community member. Clashes broke out in Manipur after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' in all its 10 districts on May 3 to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The violence was preceded by tension over the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land, which had led to a series of smaller agitations. 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 percent of the population and reside in the hill districts. So far, over 80 people have been killed in the violence, according to officials. Kickstarting his four days India visit, Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday. Upon arrival, he received a warm welcome from Union Minister Meenakashi Lekhi. Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal arrives in Delhi, receives warm welcome by MoS Lekhi "PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship," the official spokesperson of MEA, Arindam Bagchi tweeted. The Nepal Prime Minister will also call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar during his visit. In addition to the official engagements, he will also visit Ujjain and Indore as part of his visit. Informing of the arrival of Nepal Prime Minister 'Prachanda' in the national capital, the Ambassador of Nepal to India, Shankar P Sharma wrote on Twitter on Monday and said, "Rt. Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Pushpa Kamal Dahal has arrived in New Delhi on a four-day official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. PM Dahal was warmly received at the airport by MoS Smt. @M_Lekhi." Dahal, who assumed office in December last year, will visit India from May 31-June 3 at the invitation of his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also Read Nepal's PM to expand cabinet, Congress to get key ministerial portfolios Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' takes oath as Nepal's new prime minister Nepal seeks to sign electricity deal with India during Prachanda's visit Nepal PM Prachanda to embark on 4-day official visit to India on May 31 Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal extends 'best wishes' to India on Republic Day Gyanvapi: HC dismisses Muslim side's plea on right to worship inside mosque China takes 'approriate' action, denies visas to 2 Indian journalists Himachal CM seeks Rs 1,000 cr from Centre for greenfield Mandi airport Bengal govt introduces 4-year UG honours course from this academic year Haryana CM Khattar to meet Himachal counterpart over water issues Dahal will begin his schedule the next day (Thursday) by laying a wreath at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi at 10.30 am. A Ministry of External Affairs release said earlier that the visit continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries in furtherance of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. The bilateral relations between India and Nepal have significantly strengthened in the last few years in all areas of cooperation. This visit demonstrates the importance that both sides place on accelerating the bilateral partnership between the two nations, the release said. A record 11,801 Kerala government officials are set to retire on Wednesday. Government employees in the state retire at 56 years of age. The total number of state government officials hovers around half a million. One of the reasons for the huge number of retirements is, earlier, the date of birth would be adjusted to enable a child to get admission in the new academic year, which starts in June. The total number of government officials falling under the retirement age bracket this fiscal year stands at 21,537, of which 11,801 would superannuate this evening. Among those who are set to retire include state's second lady IPS official DGP- B.S.Sandhya, who steps down from the post of head of Fire and Rescue Services. Another prominent personality is actor and mimicry artiste Joby who steps down as senior manager -Kerala State Financial Enterprise. Also Read Anupamaa, Om Shanti Om actor Nitesh Pandey dies of cardiac arrest Actor Paresh Rawal booked over his 'cook fish for Bengalis' remark Bollywood actor, director Satish Kaushik passes away at the age of 66 Satish Kaushik death: Farmhouse owner's wife alleges husband's role Guv vs govt, Vizhinjam violence, double murder stirred Kerala in 2022 India plans to link prices of domestic lithium with London Metal Exchange BJP can be defeated if Opposition is 'aligned properly': Rahul Gandhi Raj HC takes suo motu cognizance of rising suicides in coaching institutes Shah to visit Manipur's Moreh on Myanmar border, review security measures India records 310 new Covid-19 cases, active infections dip to 4,222 Despite the state's fiscal health being a cause of concern, the authorities say that even though they have to raise a staggering sum of Rs 1,500 crore to pay as the retirement service benefits, no payment will be held back due to paucity of funds. --IANS sg/shb/ Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Wednesday urged the Centre to re-introduce direct flight connectivity between Tokyo and Chennai and increase the number of flights from Singapore to Madurai. Writing to Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiradiya Scindia, Stalin said the direct flight service between Chennai and Tokyo, launched in October 2019 by All Nippon Airways, was discontinued during the Covid-19 pandemic. The service is yet to resumed and the lack of direct flight connectivity more than doubles the travel time between these two destinations by about 7 hours, he noted. "There have been persistent requests from the Japanese business community in Tamil Nadu to resume direct flight services between Chennai and Tokyo." Stalin pointed to the presence of a string of manufacturing facilities of Japanese conglomerates such as the Nissan and Mitsubishi in Tamil Nadu, the increase in the number of Japanese expatriates; Chennai being home to the largest Japanese community in India and a significant Tamil diaspora in Japan. The CM referred to his tour of Singapore and Japan to attract investments and invite prospective investors for the Global Investors Meet proposed to be held by the Tamil Nadu government in January, 2024. On May 23, the CM embarked on the foreign tour and he is scheduled to return home on May 31 night. Also Read TN CM Stalin scraps Bill that extended working hours from 8 to 12 Tamil Nadu CM's son Udhayanidhi Stalin sworn in as minister in cabinet Vaiko urges Stalin to fulfil demands of Tamil Nadu's unorganised workers Udhayanidhi's elevation triggers 'Sunrise vs Sonrise' debate in Tamil Nadu CM Stalin writes to EAM, seeks intervention over attacks on TN fishermen DCW summons cop after identity of survivor revealed, WFI chief under probe Nepal PM Prachanda embarks on official visit to India, to meet PM Modi CM Mann congratulates newly-inducted ministers as they get portfolios HC restrains websites from streaming 'Spider-Man: Across The SpiderVerse' Man posing as IAS officer in PMO held for after attending event in Pune Stalin said though there were multiple daily flight connections between Singapore and Chennai and Tiruchirappalli and one daily flight between Singapore and Coimbatore, there was 'only a tri-weekly flight' between Singapore and Madurai. "This issue of more flight services between Singapore and Madurai was raised by the Minister for Home Affairs and Law of the Government of Singapore, K Shanmugham when he met me. A similar request was also raised by many members of the Tamil diaspora in Singapore." The CM said Singapore has a sizeable population of nearly 4 lakh people of Tamil origin and a lot of people from the southern districts of Tamil Nadu travel to Singapore for employment purposes. The Chief Minister hence urged Scindia to permit more flights between Singapore and Madurai. "I reiterate the two requests of the re-introduction of direct flight connectivity between Tokyo and Chennai and the increase in the number of flights between Singapore and Madurai to at least one daily flight at the earliest. I request you to kindly consider these two proposals on a priority basis. The rush of pilgrims at the Char Dham temples in Uttarakhand is many times higher than their capacity, Director-General of Police Ashok Kumar said on Wednesday, and appealed to the devotees to stagger their visit as the yatra will continue till November. More than six lakh pilgrims have visited Kedarnath since it opened on April 25. Badrinath has witnessed over five lakh devotees since its opening on April 27, according to Ajendra Ajay, chairman of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee. Kumar told reporters, "The rush of pilgrims at the Char Dham temples at present is many times more than their capacity. It is causing all sorts of inconvenience. Traffic management has become difficult. The trek routes to the temples often get jammed and 'darshan' is not smooth for the pilgrims." He added that many pilgrims believe that the yatra is only for the months of May-June. "I want to tell them it will go on till the second week of November. Visiting the temples after mid-September is the ideal time for the yatra as the weather is fine. So pilgrims can stagger their visit to the temples to avoid inconvenience," Kumar said. He also asked the pilgrims bound for Gangotri and Yamunotri from Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana not to take the Mussoorie route, which witnesses frequent traffic jams. Instead of taking the Mussoorie route, the pilgrims coming from these states should go via Vikasnagar, Nainbagh and Damta, he said. Also Read Uttarakhand govt to make new arrangements to facilitate 'Char Dham Yatra' Reliance Jio begins 'True 5G' services at Char Dham temples in Uttarakhand Joshimath in focus, all you must know about Uttarakhand's Char Dham Yatra Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri: What is Char Dham Yatra? Char Dham yatra begins with opening of Gangotri and Yamunotri temples Nepal PM Prachanda arrives in Delhi, receives warm welcome by MoS Lekhi Gyanvapi: HC dismisses Muslim side's plea on right to worship inside mosque China takes 'approriate' action, denies visas to 2 Indian journalists Himachal CM seeks Rs 1,000 cr from Centre for greenfield Mandi airport Bengal govt introduces 4-year UG honours course from this academic year Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has also appealed to the pilgrims to proceed on their journey to the Char Dham temples only after taking weather updates so that they don't face any trouble on the way. "Sometimes there is rain, sometimes there is snowfall. The pilgrims must update themselves about the weather before proceeding on their journey to the Himalayan temples as we do not want them to face any inconvenience," Dhami told reporters. The Met office on Tuesday issued an 'orange' alert for three days, warning of heavy rain and hailstorm at several places. Ajay told PTI, "On an average, more than 20,000 pilgrims are visiting Kedarnath and Badrinath daily while their bearing capacity per day should be around 10,000." He said not all who visit the temples are pilgrims. "A considerable chunk of the present rush consists of YouTubers and travel vloggers who visit the temples not purely for the purpose of pilgrimage but to increase the popularity of their vlogs or YouTube channels," Ajay said. "They often add to the trouble of genuine pilgrims as they break into song or dance anytime anywhere, showing total disregard for the religious traditions associated with the temples," he said. "The large influx of vloggers and YouTubers is another kind of disaster that has befallen the Himalayan temples in recent years," he added. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday night arrested Sujay Krishna Bhadra for his alleged involvement in the illegal appointments made in different state-run and aided schools in West Bengal, an official said. Bhadra, popular as 'Kalighat er Kaku' (Uncle from Kalighat), was arrested following a 12-hour-long grilling by ED officials at the agency's city office in connection with their ongoing investigation into the scam. "He did not cooperate with our officers during today's questioning. We tried a lot to get answers to some relevant questions connected to the job scam," the ED officer told PTI over the phone. Bhadra had appeared before the ED officials earlier in the day after he was served a notice by the central investigating agency last week. He had earlier appeared a couple of times before the CBI which is also running a parallel investigation into the recruitment scam. The ED has so far arrested West Bengal's former education minister Partha Chatterjee, apart from his friend, and several other officials of the education department for their involvement in the multi-crore scam. Also Read Agency-raj makes our task challenging: Mamata as CBI questions nephew K'taka CM thanks PM Modi for Rs 5,300 cr funds for Upper Bhadra project TMC MLA Jiban Krishna Saha detained by CBI in school jobs for graft scam IBM to pause hiring for jobs that AI could do, says CEO Arvind Krishna CBI calls TMC's Abhishek Banerjee as part of school jobs' scam probe Latest LIVE NEWS: Early morning rain lashes parts of national capital Delhi Top headlines: 41% of FAME II target met, cut in Byju's valuation and more Delhi govt provides honorarium of Rs 1 cr to family of Corona warrior 'No need for Netaji, Bhagat Singh, Khudiram Bose in movie on Savarkar' 40 medical colleges lose recognition for non-compliance, 100 under lens The owner of Joshi Cottage, a homestay 2 kilometres away from the nearest motorable road in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttarakhand, handles guests for 150 days per year, weighed against 80 days per year before the pandemic. Santosh Joshi is a busy man these days. Once the preserve of tech-industry freelancers, the blending of business and leisure (bleisure) travel and working from anywhere as part of The Great Untethering is becoming increasingly mainstream, and it is these digital nomads with the travel itch who have greatly helped revive businesses like Joshis. "A lot of young people from cities are staying at my lodge. They find peace when they are close to nature," he observes. Travel agents and hotel owners are observing that a significant section of domestic tourists prefers experiential travel, flocking to places off the grid and at high altitudes, encouraged by better accessibility and the proliferation of package tours. And Joshi isnt an anomaly. Also Read Highest Shiv shrine Tungnath tilting by 6-10 degrees; ASI keeping an eye International tourism reaches pre-pandemic levels, doubles in Q1FY23 Rajasthan govt implements new rural tourism scheme, promises jobs Revenge tourism, World Cup fever drive transactions in FY23: Razorpay Tourism ministry to soon release criteria for developing 50 destinations New projects account for 41% housing sales in Q1CY23 in top 7 mkts: Anarock IT sector growth to slow down further in FY24, hiring to be low: Icra ONDC to launch new incentive scheme on June 1, caps discounts at Rs 100 MeitY launches pilot project to make India global hub of electronics repair GE eyes India boost as foreign travel spurs demand for bigger planes In 201819 (FY19), the number of domestic visitors to the Taj Mahal stood at 5.99 million. Meanwhile, in the April-December period of 202223 (FY23), the Taj Mahal had just 3.64 million domestic visitors, according to the ASI data that has been reviewed by Business Standard. Statistics from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which administers more than 3,650 ancient monuments, archaeological sites, and remains of national importance, reveal that the number of domestic tourists visiting popular monuments like the Taj Mahal or the Qutub Minar has yet to touch pre-pandemic peaks. "The peak season for domestic tourists to visit these monuments is the summer season (MayJune). Consequently, we do not expect a big jump in the January-March data that is being collated," says an ASI official. The number of domestic visitors to Qutub Minar was 2.64 million in FY19. In the April-December period of FY23, this number was just 1.19 million. A travel agent based out of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh says the pandemic has pushed the reset button, and tourists (especially youngsters) want to travel to the upper reaches of the mountains, where it is more pristine. "The sites under ASI are not as well maintained as they ought to be. Confusion prevails, whether the entry is through a physical ticket or an online booking. These sites also need to be innovative in sustaining peoples interest levels; if somebody has visited before, they see no charm in visiting again. Besides, domestic tourists are exploring new destinations closer to nature and places that have not been explored thus far," says Rajiv Mehra, president, Indian Association of Tour Operators. Aashish Gupta, consulting chief executive officer, Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality, says a significant section of domestic tourism is now shifting to remote and unconventional locations. "The number of bookings to such areas has increased 5060 per cent after the pandemic," he says, adding it would be helpful if airlines started operating more flights from Kullu. Currently, only Alliance Air (earlier part of Air India and currently owned by AI Assets Holding) operates flights (22 per week) connecting Kullu to Delhi. Karthick Prabu, head of strategy, Cleartrip, says people are looking for places that travelogues often skip. India is geographically diverse, with landscapes ranging from snow-capped mountain ranges to deserts, hills, and plateaus. Atypical locations always get repeat visits, he adds. The number of foreign tourists visiting the must-see monuments in India is also below the pre-pandemic peaks of 201819 (FY19). "While monument visits are showing fewer numbers than pre-Covid, states like Rajasthan have reported that their domestic tourist count is twice the pre-pandemic number," he added. "The reasons for low foreign tourist arrivals (in FY23) are myriad. The kind of marketing support that was expected from the government was largely missing. The marketing budget has since been slashed. Additionally, airfares have soared. Our neighbours are offering better packages since they enjoy certain tax advantages we dont," says Mehra. For instance, Agra Fort, which received 527,535 visitors in FY19, welcomed only 85,311 visitors in the April-December period of FY23. "Sadly, there hasnt been enough marketing of Agra among travel trade partners, and that is one reason why it has fewer domestic tourists now than before the pandemic breakout. Agra also doesnt receive repeat tourists like other cities do," he rues. Sunil Gupta, ex-president, Tourism Guild of Agra, says destinations need to be constantly promoted to attract visitors. "I expect foreign tourist arrivals to pick up this winter," he says. He says international tourists plan their trips well in advance. Since India permitted scheduled international flights on March 27 last year, the number of foreign tourists who came to India in FY23 was much lower. Aashish Gupta says if government-to-consumer marketing kicks in during the next few months in key countries and if airfares stabilise, the number of foreign tourist arrivals to India in 202324 (FY24) could be about 75 per cent more than the pre-pandemic peaks. He adds that the domestic tourism sector is expecting a full recovery in FY24 if airfares remain stable during the year. Tata Electronics was given over Rs 608 crore in capital infusion in 2022-23 by its holding company Tata Sons, the highest in a single financial year, which took the total capital infusion till now to Rs 1,820 crore in the last three years since it was started, according to the latest regulatory disclosures. The authorised capital of the firm is Rs 2,000 crore. The Tatas have garnered funds to the tune of over Rs 7,600 crore for Tata Electronics, its greenfield electronics and contract manufacturing business venture, through capital infusion by the parent and secured loans, according to a report in The Economic Times (ET). The company has almost exhausted its funding limit from the parent since the authorised share capital is Rs 2,000 crore and paid-up capital is Rs 1,820, leaving a balance funding capacity of Rs 180 crore to be utilised. It will have to expand its authorised share capital limit to further expand funding, Mohit Yadav, founder of business intelligence firm AltInfo told The Economic Times. The filings also show that the firm has raised secured loans of Rs 5,799 crore as of date. Tata Electronics is also separately building a mobile phone component manufacturing factory at an investment of over Rs 4,600 crore in Tamil Nadu. If the Wistron deal is completed, Tatas will become the first home-grown firm to assemble iPhones in India. The group is also looking to enter the semiconductor manufacturing business, Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran told Nikkei Asia last December. Tata Electronics is the groups latest foray into the electronic component manufacturing business. Tatas expect to take on the likes of Foxconn and Dixon. According to reports, the group is on the cusp of acquiring Taiwanese contract manufacturer Wistrons iPhone manufacturing plant in Karnataka. Also Read iPhone 15 series: Apple's upcoming phones to be made in India by Tata Group Apple iPhone 16 Pro models may get bigger displays, Periscope camera lenses Apple opens its first official store in Mumbai; what we know so far Apple BKC Mumbai store previewed ahead of April 18 opening: See pictures Here's a first look of the Apple store that opens in Mumbai tomorrow India plans to link prices of domestic lithium with London Metal Exchange Govt considering registration of flats even if developers go bankrupt Aviation regulator DGCA simplifies application process for heliport license CIL eyes Rs 2,703-crore incremental revenue with 8% thermal coal hike Crude imports from Russia jumped 14x in FY23, says RBI annual report In April, the group appointed Randhir Thakur as the chief executive officer of Tata Electronics. Also Read Jindal Saw hits over 5-year high; zooms 94% in 3 months on healthy outlook Jindal Saw hits new high on strong Q4 results; zooms 91% thus far in 2023 Crucial for India to secure its nickel needs, says Jindal Stainless MD Jindal Steel & Power net profit down 68 per cent to Rs 518.67 crore Bank stocks can slide more; stay away for now: Analysts Campus Activewear extends fall; slips 12% in two days on weak Q4 results As Nifty Pvt Bank index sets new peak; Here's how to trade banking stocks Corporate earnings growth to drive the next leg of market rally: Analysts Indo Count hits 52-week high, up 10% on healthy Q4 operational performance Sebi proposes enhanced disclosure requirements for high-risk FPIs Shares of Jindal Saw hit a new high of Rs 229.50 in an otherwise a weak market, as they rallied 9 per cent on the BSE in Wednesday's intra-day amid heavy volumes.At 01:42 PM, the stock was quoting 8 per cent higher on the back of nearly two-fold jump in trading volumes. A combined around 10 million equity shares, representing 3 per cent of total equity of Jindal Saw, has so far changed hands on the NSE and BSE.In the past two weeks, the stock of the iron & steel company has surged 31 per cent after the company reported strong March quarter (Q4FY23) earnings with a consolidated net profit more-than-doubling to Rs 294 crore on the back of healthy operational performance. It had posted profit of Rs 121.84 crore in the year-ago quarter and of Rs 143.23 crore in the previous quarter.Revenue from operations grew 30.7 per cent to Rs 5,188 crore from Rs 3,969 crore in the year-ago quarter. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (ebitda) also increased 50 per cent YoY at Rs 600 crore; Ebitda margin improved 148 bps YoY at 11.57 per cent.The company has reported consistent revenue growth in recent years, owing to increased sales volumes, improved capacity utilizations and higher realisations. However, rising raw material costs and industry competition have had an impact on the Companys profitability.Thus far in the calendar year 2023, the stock price of Jindal Saw has more-than-doubled, zooming 122 per cent, as compared to 2.3 per cent rise in the S&P BSE Sensex.Jindal Saw, the flagship company of the PR Jindal group, sells products such as longitudinal submerged arc welded (LSAW) pipes, helical SAW (HSAW) pipes, ductile iron (DI) pipes and seamless pipes and pellets. The company is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of iron & steel pipe products, pipe accessories and pellets, with manufacturing facilities in India, USA and Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates).India has imposed anti-dumping duty on stainless steel tube imports from China for five years. The duty ensures fair trading practices and creates a level-playing field for domestic producers vis-a-vis foreign producers and exporters. The implementation of this antidumping duty is expected to boost the companys presence in the local market and accelerate the utilization of increased capacities beyond initial projections.Exports incentive under RoDTEP Scheme (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products) drive exports further. With its focus on exports and growing order book, the Company stands to gain from this incentive, Jindal Saw said in FY22-23 annual report.The Made in India and Aatma Nirbhar Bharat initiatives of the government aims to boost local production and increase the competitiveness of Indian industries. The company has initiated steps to develop the value-added products in India. This may present prospects for Jindal Saw to grow its operations and enhance its local market share, the company said.The domestic steel industry, which grew between 5 per cent and 7 per cent on a year-on-year basis, is expected to play a bigger role in enabling India to achieve the 5 trillion economy target by 2025.Jindal Saw anticipates that the recent government policy announcements about railways, roads, civil aviation, gas pipelines for affordable housing, and increased budgetary allocation to this sector would support a relatively solid demand recovery and drive the need for iron & steel products.The Government Policies like Production Linked Incentive (PLI), Jal Jeevan Mission, PM Jivan Yojana targeting development in various sectors like infrastructure, housing and development pose a unique opportunity for Jindal Saw, the company said in annual report. Former United Nations Secretary-General and Elders Deputy Chair Ban Ki-moon, right, speaks with The Elders Chair Mary Robinson, center, and The Korea Times President-Publisher Oh Young-jin during a discussion on global challenges during The Elders' visit to Korea at Grand Hyatt Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul Robinson, Ban call for collective action towards AI regulation By Kwon Mee-yoo The Elders, an advisory group of 11 global leaders, underscored the critical role of intergenerational dialogue and collaboration in addressing existential threats facing humanity, such as climate change and the unregulated advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) during their visit to Korea. Mary Robinson, chair of The Elders and former president of Ireland, and Ban Ki-moon, former United Nations secretary-general, sat down with Korea Times President-Publisher Oh Young-jin at Grand Hyatt Seoul, Wednesday, to wrap up their visit to Korea, encompassing their biannual board meeting as well as a series of discussions with Korean authorities including with President Yoon Suk Yeol. The Elders are advocating exchanges and connections between generations on global issues, including climate change, gender-related matters and AI. They are encouraging more engagement by young people, acknowledging that they often have more knowledge about emerging technologies like AI. "The Elders very much believe in intergenerational exchange and linking. When I was young, I loved my grandfather, who was a retired lawyer, when he talked about justice. And he talked to me and asked me, but he didn't expect me to say anything. I was to listen. Now, it's different. Even 13, 14-year-olds are talking expertly about the climate issue, because they read the science, they're connected digitally and they have ideas," Robinson said. "We want to expand our experience in intergenerational discussions and learning on both sides in the climate crisis and other existential threats." Mary Robinson, left, chair of The Elders and former president of Ireland, alongside Ban Ki-moon, former U.N. secretary-general, speaks during a discussion with Korea Times President-Publisher Oh Young-jin, unseen in the photo, at Grand Hyatt Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul In their new strategic plan, The Elders have identified three existential threats, with the climate crisis and environmental degradation being the most pressing. "That's why the United Nations has been speaking out and targeting carbon neutrality by 2050. We have to achieve zero carbon emission. Is it possible? It may not be possible because of all this lack of political will (as) you have to change the whole industrial system," Ban said. "Encouragingly, more than 150 countries have pledged that they will achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and the Korean government is one of them. I've been trying to get Asia to achieve net zero 2050, but it is a very daunting challenge at this time, because China has declared (to achieve net zero) by 2060 and what is more problematic is that India has announced carbon neutrality by 2070. Therefore, there's a long way to go for us. Then, at least we have to make as many as countries as possible join this carbon neutrality parade," he added. Ban emphasized that the critical driving force in addressing climate change should be the political will of global leaders, illustrating this by pointing out that OECD countries, despite pledging to provide $100 billion (132 trillion won) to developing countries to tackle climate change, have not fully met their commitments even after 14 years. "This is not an issue of political ideology or system. All the countries join their hands (in working collectively toward the common goal of climate change)," Ban added. Robinson and Ban also noted that that the emerging prevalence of AI could potentially aggravate this crisis due to its potential to amplify negative aspects such as misinformation and threats to democracy. "(Climate change) is now going to be really seriously worsened by artificial intelligence unless we get it under control, because it is going to supercharge all the negative issues on social media, dark sides, misinformation, undermining democracy and elections. And all of this undermines our capacity of the world to address a very, very serious crisis," Robinson said. Robinson highlighted the importance of a complete paradigm shift and adoption of a crisis-oriented mentality to effectively address global issues. "We need a total turnaround and a real 'crisis mentality,' which is what The Elders are emphasizing. It would have been difficult before the kind of explosive, exponential focus now on AI. It is everywhere and there are opportunities from AI, undoubtedly, especially for developing countries," she said. "But there are very, very big risks and it is interesting that the CEOs of major companies that know the technology are warning of how scared they are, of what they don't fully understand. So this is going to make it even more difficult to cope with an existential threat, which we should be giving priority attention to," Robinson added. Members of the global leaders' advisory group, The Elders, from left, Elbegdorj Tsakhia, former president of Mongolia, Mary Robinson, Ban Ki-moon and Juan Manuel Santos, former president of Colombia, attend a media briefing at Grand Hyatt Seoul, Wednesday. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul Also Read Tega Industries rallies 8%, hits 52-week high on strong growth prospects Nalwa Steel & Power, two others submit resolution plans for McNally Bharat Bank stocks can slide more; stay away for now: Analysts No SVB-like scenario in India; banks are on a strong footing, say analysts YES Bank share price flat as SBI's three-year lock-in period ends this week Jindal Saw soars 9%, hits new high in a weak market on healthy biz outlook Campus Activewear extends fall; slips 12% in two days on weak Q4 results As Nifty Pvt Bank index sets new peak; Here's how to trade banking stocks Corporate earnings growth to drive the next leg of market rally: Analysts Indo Count hits 52-week high, up 10% on healthy Q4 operational performance Shares of Tega Industries were locked at the 10 per cent upper circuit at Rs 899.85 on the BSE in Wednesdays intra-day trade in an otherwise weak market after the company reported 58.1 per cent year-on-year (YoY) jump in its consolidated net profit at Rs 77.30 crore, on strong operational performance.The companys consolidated revenues grew 36.7 per cent YoY to Rs 396.4 crore. Absolute earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) came at Rs 102.8 crore, grew by 49.1 per cent YoY with EBITDA margins expanded by 217 bps YoY to 25.9 per cent.With the new acquisition of McNally Sayaji, Tega industries is expected to yield a 15-20 per cent growth for the next few years, along with a revenue growth by 5 per cent. The move is expected to bolster Tega's offerings in the material handling space, in line with the company's strategy of backward integration, according to ICICI Securities.Tega plans to expand their manufacturing capacity and capabilities, both in India and overseas. Further, evaluating the growth trajectory in South America (which contribute 40 per cent of the global copper production and 8 per cent of the global gold production output) and to extend their access and penetration with customers across Chile, Peru and Bolivia, they plan to set up a new manufacturing facility in Chile. Currently the capacity is 5,000 tons in Chile which will go up ~10,000 tons by Q1FY25 with capex of ~$20mn, the brokerage firm said.Tega Industries is a leading manufacturer & distributor of specialized critical to operate & recurring consumable products. The company caters to global mineral beneficiation, mining & bulk solids handling industry.Thus far in the calendar year, the stock has zoomed 56 per cent, as compared to 2.3 per cent rise in the S&P BSE Sensex. Till 03:09 PM; a combined around 960,000 shares had changed hands and there were pending buy orders for 23,000 shares on the NSE and BSE. Technical View Bias: Positive Resistance: Rs 1,880 Support: Rs 1,750 With today's sharp rally, the stock is seen holding above the higher-end of the Bollinger Bands on the daily charts. Thus suggesting that the bias is likely to remain bullish as long as the stock holds above Rs 1,750. On the upside, the stock is likely to counter resistance around Rs 1,880, which is the trend line resistance on the monthly chart. Torrent Pharma has rallied over 28 per cent from its low of Rs 1,445 hit on February 27, 2023. Incidenttly, the stock had dipped below the 100-DMA on that particular day. Thereafter, the stock has seen a steady rise, and now trades comfortably above the key moving averages. Also Read Torrent Pharma Q3 PAT up 14% to Rs 249 crore riding on India, Brazil Mankind Pharma IPO to open next week: Check price band, GMP, other details Torrent Pharma reports Q4 net profit of Rs 287 crore, revenue up 16% Mankind Pharma IPO opens today: Check GMP, price band, other details here India business to boost pharma, after US sales prove to be a mixed bag Street cheers Q4 nos of new age firms but analysts advise cautious optimism Block deal impact: Sona BLW slips 6%; HDFC Life gains 1% Stocks to watch: Adani Ports, NMDC, HDFC Life, Apollo Hospitals, PTC Inds Stock Market Live: Sensex dips 300pts, Nifty at 18550; SBI falls 2%, RIL 1% Nifty FMCG index likely to face stiff resistance at 51,000 (With inputs from Rex Cano) On the flip side, failure to hold the Rs 1,750 level, could trigger a price correction towards Rs 1,710 level. Shares of Torrent Pharma hit a record high of Rs 1,851.15, as they rallied 8 per cent on the BSE in Wednesdays intra-day trade after the company reported profit after tax of Rs 287 crore for the March quarter (Q4FY23), on back of healthy operational performance. The drug maker had posted net loss of Rs 118 crore in a year ago quarter (Q4FY22).The stock surpassed its previous high of Rs 1,722.70, touched on November 9, 2022. At 09:48 AM; the stock quoted 6 per cent higher at Rs 1,813.75, as compared to 0.5 per cent decline in the S&P BSE Sensex.In Q4FY23, Torrent Pharmas revenues grew 16.9 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to Rs 2,491 crore, mainly driven by growth in India, Germany and Brazil markets. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (ebitda) increased 29.6 per cent YoY to Rs 727 Crore. Ebitda margins expanded by 286 bps to 29.2 per cent, due to change in revenue mix, higher revenues across geographies.India revenue stood at Rs 1,257 crore, up 22 per cent YoY. The company said robust growth aided by strong performance of new launches in chronic therapies and integration of Curatio. Brazil revenue growth of 27 per cent YoY at Rs 318 crore, was complemented by strong underlying market growth, new launches and growth of generic segment. While, US revenue growth was down 1 per cent YoY at Rs 280 crore, impacted by price erosion on base portfolio and lack of new launches pending inspection of facilities.Torrents branded generics business India continues to perform well with focus on curatio acquisition and focus on power brands besides consumer business foray. Brazil numbers beat our estimates driven by generic brands and CMS franchise. US continues to witness price erosion in high single digit, growth is due to low base and currency tailwinds. In Germany supplies for the tender has started, but it continues to witness price erosion in high single digit, ICICI Securities said.The brokerage firm said it remains positive on the companys branded generics business focus which is +70 per cent of sales now. The managment is looking for 60- 100 bps margins improvement banking on branded generics business traction.The company continues to focus on the branded generics business in its key markets of India/Brazil. The strategy of building a consumer healthcare segment in India would further enhance volume growth potential for certain established brands, Motilal Oswal Financial Services said.While a successful resolution of compliance issues is vital for growth in US generics, it has outsourced certain products, which would aid growth in US generics to some extent. Having said this, the current valuation adequately captures the upside in earnings, the brokerage firm said in result update. It maintains Neutral rating on the stock. JioCinema didnt break new ground with its free IPL streaming. But its entry will make a big dent on the ARPUs of other OTT platforms just like it did for the telecom players in 2016 and 2017. On the other side of the globe, the worlds fourth largest economy meanwhile is facing a technical recession. Germany, recorded a 0.3% contraction in GDP in the first quarter of this year. Among various reasons, a prime trigger is the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war that has disrupted the supply of natural gas. Germany is also one of the prime destinations for Indias exports. So, will the Indian economy take a hit because of the recession in Deutschland? IPL 2023 finally came to an end on May 29, with the Chennai Super Kings clinching its fifth win. The latest edition was remarkable for several records broken and milestones established on field. But off the field too, the massive viewership numbers for IPL 2023 seems to have given its OTT broadcaster Jio Cinema a big push in its race for a place among the leaders of Indias OTT-space. But, is the Reliance-owned streaming platform ready to take on giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime? The ruling BJP can be defeated if the Opposition is "aligned properly" and the Congress party is working towards it and it is "coming along very nicely", Rahul Gandhi has told Indian Americans here, citing his party's emphatic victory in the recent assembly elections in Karnataka. Responding to questions from the moderator and the audiences at an event at the Silicon Valley Campus of the University of California in Santa Cruz on Tuesday, Gandhi said he can clearly see "vulnerabilities" in the BJP. As a political entrepreneur, I can clearly see vulnerabilities in the BJP... The BJP can be defeated if the Opposition is aligned properly, he said. If you look at the Karnataka elections, the general sense is that the Congress Party fought the BJP and defeated the BJP. But what is not well understood is the mechanics that we used," he said. The Congress party used a completely different approach to fighting an election and building a narrative, Gandhi said, adding that elements of what happened in Karnataka came out of the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra'. In the May 10 elections to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly, the Congress won 135 seats, while incumbent BJP and the former prime minister H D Deve Gowda-led Janata Dal (Secular) got 66 and 19, respectively. Also Read Rahul responds to wearing T-shirt as Delhi shivers; BJP jibes 'Shehzada' J P Nadda says Rahul Gandhi speaking language of China and Pakistan Rahul Gandhi attacks BJP, its ideology as Bharat Jodo Yatra enters Haryana Indian Overseas Congress workers plan huge welcome for Rahul Gandhi in US Was our economy bigger when we fought the British: Rahul Gandhi slams BJP Modi can even confuse God, explain how universe works: Rahul Gandhi in US Does POCSO, immediate arrest not apply to Brij Bhushan: Sibal flays govt Modi govt's 'fire sale' of national assets 'anti-national' act: Kharge Started BJY as BJP-RSS were controlling tools used for politics: Rahul BJP 'threatening' people and 'misusing' government agencies: Rahul Gandhi Gandhi said in the Karnataka elections, the BJP spent 10 times more money than the Congress party. He said the country needed an alternative vision to defeat the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in addition to having a united Opposition in the 2024 general elections. On the matter of opposition unity, we are working towards it and it is coming along very nicely. But I think in order to defeat the BJP, you need more than just opposition unity. Just opposition unity, in my opinion, is not going to be enough to do the job. I think you need an alternative vision to the BJP, he said. Part of Bharat Jodo Yatra was the first step in proposing such a vision. It's the vision that all opposition parties are aligned with. No opposition party would disagree with the idea of the Bharat Jodo Yatra," he said. Bharat Jodo Yatra (Unite India March) was a Gandhi-led mass movement aimed at uniting India. The yatra began on September 7 from Kanyakumari, passed through 12 states and culminated in Jammu and Kashmir on January 31. During the course of the yatra, Gandhi, 52, addressed 12 public meetings, over 100 corner meetings and 13 press conferences. He had over 275 planned walking interactions and more than 100 sitting interactions. "So, I think bringing the opposition together is important, but also aligning the opposition and making the people of India understand that there is not just a group of opposition parties that have combined but a proposed way forward for the country. And we're working on those things, Gandhi said. The ex-Wayanad MP said it is the president of the Congress party who will decide the prime ministerial candidate. We believe that everybody in India, regardless of who they are, whichever part of the society they come from, they should have a voice that voice should be respected, to be listened to be appreciated. And I think that voice is an asset, he said. In his address, Gandhi also took a dig at the ruling BJP government, saying it is "threatening" the people and "misusing" the country's agencies. "The BJP is threatening people and misusing government agencies. The Bharat Jodo Yatra started because all the instruments that we needed to connect with the people were controlled by the BJP-RSS," he said. "We were also finding that in some way, it had become quite difficult to act politically. And that's why we decided to walk from the southernmost tip of India to Srinagar," he said. Gandhi said the yatra carried the spirit of affection, respect and humility. "If one studies history, it can be seen that all spiritual leaders including Guru Nanak Dev ji, Guru Basavanna ji, Narayana Guru ji united the nation in a similar way," he said. Gandhi said India is not what is being shown in the media which likes to promote a political narrative that is far from reality, asserting that there is a "huge distortion". "It was very clear to me in the Yatra that it's in the media's interest to project these things, it helps the BJP. So, don't think that everything you see in the media is the truth," he said. "India is not what the media shows. The media likes to show a particular narrative. It likes to promote a political narrative that is actually not what is going on in India," he said. The Congress leader arrived here on Tuesday on a three-city US tour during which he will interact with the Indian diaspora and meet American lawmakers. He had a first-hand experience of the American immigration system as he had to wait for about two hours along with his other co-passengers on the Air India flight because of the common shortage of staff at the US airports. People were seen taking selfies with him and asking him questions. He was seen interacting and mingling with other travellers at the San Francisco airport. Last week, Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda said Gandhi's visit is aimed at promoting shared values and a vision of real democracy. "The purpose of his (Gandhi's) trip is to connect, interact and begin a new conversation with various individuals, institutions and media, including the Indian diaspora that is growing in numbers in the United States and abroad to promote the shared values and vision of the real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over, Pitroda said in a statement. Karnataka Congress president and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar met former CM Jagadish Shettar at the latter's residence on Wednesday and told him that the party was with him. Addressing reporters here after the visit, Shivakumar did not give any specific answer on the position or responsibility to be given to Jagadish Shettar in future. "The objective of meeting Jagadish Shettar is remembering the strength he gave by joining the Congress party. Whoever stands with Congress party in its difficult times, the party will stand with them. They have to keep the courage intact and carry out the work taking responsibilities," Shivakumar stated. "This is also a message by the party high command and in the capacity of President of the State unit I have come here to personally convey a few things told to me by the AICC President. In future, in this region and in the whole of the state the leaders will strengthen the party," he said. Shivakumar stated that the Congress party was with Jagadish Shettar. "I won't discuss at this stage on what responsibility will be given to him. We don't do it secretly as well. We will announce it to you. You (media) be with him," he said. Shivakumar said, "Through him, our party has gained great strength. Jagadish Shettar, Laxman Savadi, Puttanna, Shivalinge Gowda, Srinivas, Chinachansur have given strength by joining the Congress party. Winning and losing is common in politics. Also Read PM Modi interacts with BJP leader KS Eshwarappa on telephonic call Former Karnataka CM Jagadish Shettar joins Congress post exit from BJP Not decided yet, says Ex-Karnataka CM Jagadish Shettar on joining Congress Despite all assurances, Jagdish Shettar chose himself over party: BJP Jagadish Shettar files nomination from Hubli-Dharwad-Central constituency New Parliament is distraction, BJP can't discuss real issues: Rahul Gandhi Modi thinks he knows everything, can even sermon God: Rahul Gandhi in US Kejriwal to meet Stalin, Soren to seek support against Centre's ordinance BJP can be defeated if Opposition is 'aligned properly': Rahul Gandhi Modi can even confuse God, explain how universe works: Rahul Gandhi in US "But, the party is empowered by them. He (Jagadish Shettar) has given guidance and strength to the party. Many candidates have won and change was brought at the state level. We have also organised the party in the past three years. Our struggles from the days of Covid pandemic and other issues together have worked to convince the people to vote for the Congress party," he said. The deputy chief minister also visited former DyCM Laxman Savadi's residence in Belagavi late Tuesday night. Minister for Public Works Satish Jarkiholi and Minister for Women and Child Welfare Lakshmi Hebbalkar accompanied Shivakumar. Jagadish Shettar joined the Congress ahead of the elections after being denied ticket to contest from Hubballi-Dharwad Central seat. The development helped the Congress to break the Lingayat vote bank of BJP. Union Minister for Home Amit Shah stayed back in Dharwad and held a series of meetings and personally strategized to ensure the defeat of Jagadish Shettar. Former CM B.S. Yediyurappa was entrusted with the job to defeat Jagadish Shettar. Though BJP could defeat him, the party suffered a humiliating defeat in the Assembly election in the state. --IANS mka/dpb The BJP on Wednesday said Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal should answer as to why his former deputy Manish Sisodia's bail applications in the excise policy case have been repeatedly rejected by courts. The Delhi High Court on Tuesday denied bail to Sisodia in the excise policy case being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), saying being a former deputy chief minister and excise minister, he was a "high-profile" person and has the potential to influence witnesses. "Kejriwal should answer as to why Sisodia's bail is being rejected again and again. The fact that hawala money went to Goa has also been stated in the CBI charge sheet. Why is the party (AAP), which claims to be hardcore honest, silent on this revelation," Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva asked at a press conference. According to the CBI charge sheet, there is evidence that the liquor mafia gave Rs 2.2 crore to Sisodia and that money was sent to Goa through hawala. Delhiites want to know what Kejriwal has to say about this, the BJP leader said. The courts have refused bail to Sisodia on the basis of charge sheets filed by the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The ED is conducting a money laundering probe in connection with alleged irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. Also Read BJP govt at Centre fighting with everyone, alleges Delhi CM Kejriwal Will answer all questions, says Kejriwal as he appears before CBI Scared of Kejriwal's growing popularity: AAP leader Atishi attacks Centre CBI should immediately arrest Sisodia in 'snooping' case, says Delhi BJP AAP 'ray of hope' for people, efforts being made to trample it: Kejriwal Karnataka Dy CM Shivakumar meets Jagdish Shettar, says Congress with him New Parliament is distraction, BJP can't discuss real issues: Rahul Gandhi Modi thinks he knows everything, can even sermon God: Rahul Gandhi in US Kejriwal to meet Stalin, Soren to seek support against Centre's ordinance BJP can be defeated if Opposition is 'aligned properly': Rahul Gandhi The Delhi government withdrew the excise policy last year after Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena recommended a CBI probe into alleged irregularities in its implementation. Kejriwal is "morally responsible" for the "scam", Sachdeva said. He further said that AAP MP Sanjay Singh, whose name was mentioned in the ED charge sheet, has been calling himself innocent. However, contrary to his claims, he knows knows very well that like Sisodia and Satyendar Jain, there is strong evidence against him too and he will not get bail if he is arrested, Sachdeva said. "So, Singh is deliberately making statements before the media that his name is not in the charge sheet," he said. Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying "if you sat him next to God, he would start explaining how the universe works". Rahul Gandhi, who is on a six-day visit to the US, while interacting with the Indian diaspora on Tuesday, said, "I think if you sat Modi ji down next to God, he would start explaining to God how the universe works. And God would get confused about what I have created". The former Wayanad Lok Sabha MP further said that India is being run by a group of people who are "absolutely convinced" and have "disease" that they know everything. Taking a jibe at PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi said that some groups in India have the "disease" of being under the impression that they know everything. "In India, we grew up with people of different languages, different religions. And that is what is being attacked. The tradition in India, of people like (Mahatma) Gandhi Ji and Guru Nanak Ji, has been that you should not be under the impression of knowing everything. It is a 'disease' that some groups of India think that they know everything." The Congress leader said this group of people believes they can explain science to scientists, history to historians, and warfare to the Army while adding that mediocrity is at the heart of it all and this group of people does not actually understand anything. Also Read Andaman & Nicobar Cong protest Rahul Gandhi's Lok Sabha disqualification Rahul Gandhi takes a late-night truck ride to speak to drivers; see video Modi talks only about himself even in Karnataka election: Rahul Gandhi Cong to ally with like-minded parties to defend Constitution: Sonia Gandhi Rahul to visit US for a week ahead of PM Modi's trip, to attend programmes Does POCSO, immediate arrest not apply to Brij Bhushan: Sibal flays govt Modi govt's 'fire sale' of national assets 'anti-national' act: Kharge Started BJY as BJP-RSS were controlling tools used for politics: Rahul BJP 'threatening' people and 'misusing' government agencies: Rahul Gandhi Modi no king to practice transfer of powers using 'Sengol': Cong Goa chief He also talked about his 4,000 km Bharat Jodo Yatra that began from Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari on September 7 last year and concluded in Srinagar on January 30 where he raised the national flag. "The Bharat Jodo Yatra carried the spirit of affection, respect and humility. If one studies history, it can be seen that all spiritual leaders, including Guru Nanak Dev ji, Guru Basavanna ji, Narayana Guru ji, united the nation in a similar way," Rahul Gandhi said in his address. The former Congress chief travelled on an ordinary passport to the US after he surrendered his diplomatic passport following his disqualification as a MP. He was received at the airport by Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda and other members of the IOC. Rahul Gandhi had to wait for two hours at the airport for the immigration clearance, party sources said. While he was waiting in the queue, several people who were travelling with him in the same flight clicked selfies with him at the airport. Party sources said that when people asked him why he was standing in the queue, the Congress leader replied, "I am a common man. I like it. I am no longer an MP." A Congress source said that the senior leader will be attending several programmes during his six-day visit. The source said that the Congress leader in San Francisco interacted with the Indian diaspora, venture capitalists, tech executives and students at Silicon Valley. On Wednesday, he will also interact with senior technology executives from Silicon Valley on artificial intelligence. The source said that Rahul is also scheduled to deliver a lecture at Stanford University, and on the same evening meet with the Indian diaspora. The source said that the former Wayanad Lok Sabha MP will attend several programmes in Washington D.C. that includes his speech at the National Press Club on the future of Indian democracy, freedom of speech, and sustainable and inclusive economic growth. In Washington D.C., Rahul will also meet lawmakers and think tanks and also attend a dinner hosted by Indian-American entrepreneur Frank Islam and top business leaders, Senators and Congressmen. He will then visit New York, where he will be meeting thinkers at the Harvard Club of Harvard University. He will also participate in a lunch event and meet a set of successful Indian-Americans in the creative industry. On June 4, Rahul Gandhi will address a public gathering at the Javits Center in New York organised by the IOC (Indian Overseas Congress). Indian Overseas Congress Secretary Virendra Vashistha told IANS over the phone, "Rahul Gandhi has been raising the issue of India in the US. The Prime Minister has done 101 episodes of his 'Mann Ki Baat', whereas Rahul Gandhi has been doing 'Jan ki baat' and he listens to them in India and also in the US and talks to them about India wherever he goes." --IANS aks/dpb The ex-Wayanad MP said that before he decided to start the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra,' he knew that normal tools used in Indian politics would not work anymore. Criticising the Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said that BJP is "threatening" the people and "misusing" the country's law enforcement agencies to achieve political objectives. He was speaking at an Indian diaspora event organised in Santa Clara, California, United States. The Congress leader said that his party carried out the yatra with the spirit of affection, respect, and humility. "The BJP is threatening people and misusing government agencies. The Bharat Jodo Yatra started because all the instruments that we needed to connect with the people were controlled by the BJP-RSS," PTI quoted Rahul Gandhi as saying. He said, "Nafrat ke bazaar mein mohabbat ki dukaan kholi" (We opened a shop of love in the market of hatred). When we started, I thought will see what happens. After 5 or 6 days we realised that actually walking 1,000 km was not an easy thing. And I had an old knee injury that started to act up so I said now I am in real trouble because theres no choice, one has to walk and I am having quite a lot of pain. Then quite a surprising thing happened, Gandhi said. Talking about the Modi regime, Rahul Gandhi also accused the media of presenting a distorted picture of the country to the Indian masses, which was far from reality. He said, "India is not what the media shows. The media likes to show a particular narrative. It likes to promote a political narrative that is actually not what is going on in India." Also Read Rahul Gandhi takes a late-night truck ride to speak to drivers; see video Rahul Gandhi convicted in Modi surname defamation case: What we know so far LIVE: Indian-origin Ajay Banga confirmed as next World Bank president LIVE: Fighting for voice of India, says Rahul Gandhi after losing MP status LIVE: BJP is becoming synonymous with aspirations, progress, says PM Modi Kejriwal to meet Stalin, Soren to seek support against Centre's ordinance BJP can be defeated if Opposition is 'aligned properly': Rahul Gandhi Modi can even confuse God, explain how universe works: Rahul Gandhi in US Does POCSO, immediate arrest not apply to Brij Bhushan: Sibal flays govt Modi govt's 'fire sale' of national assets 'anti-national' act: Kharge He talked about how spiritual leaders like Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Basavanna Ji, and Narayana Guru Ji had worked to unite the country. He added that after having walked 25 kilometres every day for three weeks, he did not feel tired anymore. I would get up at 6 am in the morning and walk until 8 pm in the evening and did not feel any signs of exhaustion, he said. The ex-Wayanad MP said that before he decided to start the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra,' he knew that normal tools used in Indian politics would not work anymore. Rahul Gandhi is visiting the US for a three-city tour. He reached the US on May 30 and is scheduled to interact with the Indian diaspora in the country. Besides, he will also meet American lawmakers. Criticising the Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said that BJP is "threatening" the people and "misusing" the country's law enforcement agencies to achieve political objectives. He was speaking at an Indian diaspora event organised in Santa Clara, California, United States. The Congress leader said that his party carried out the yatra with the spirit of affection, respect, and humility. "The BJP is threatening people and misusing government agencies. The Bharat Jodo Yatra started because all the instruments that we needed to connect with the people were controlled by the BJP-RSS," PTI quoted Rahul Gandhi as saying. He said, "Nafrat ke bazaar mein mohabbat ki dukaan kholi" (We opened a shop of love in the market of hatred). When we started, I thought will see what happens. After 5 or 6 days we realised that actually walking 1,000 km was not an easy thing. And I had an old knee injury that started to act up so I said now I am in real trouble because theres no choice, one has to walk and I am having quite a lot of pain. Then quite a surprising thing happened, Gandhi said. Talking about the Modi regime, Rahul Gandhi also accused the media of presenting a distorted picture of the country to the Indian masses, which was far from reality. He said, "India is not what the media shows. The media likes to show a particular narrative. It likes to promote a political narrative that is actually not what is going on in India." He talked about how spiritual leaders like Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Guru Basavanna Ji, and Narayana Guru Ji had worked to unite the country. He added that after having walked 25 kilometres every day for three weeks, he did not feel tired anymore. I would get up at 6 am in the morning and walk until 8 pm in the evening and did not feel any signs of exhaustion, he said. That is the disease that we have a group of people in India who are absolutely convinced that they know everything. In fact, I think may be they think they even know more than God. They can sit down and have a conversation and explain to him, you know, about what is going on. And of course, our prime minister is one such specimen, he said. Rahul Gandhi is visiting the US for a three-city tour. He reached the US on May 30 and is scheduled to interact with the Indian diaspora in the country. Besides, he will also meet American lawmakers. I think if you sat Modiji down next to god, Modiji would start explaining to god how the universe works. And god would get confused that what have I created, he added. (With agency inputs) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP national president J P Nadda will address rallies in West Bengal next month, party state unit president Sukanta Majumdar said on Wednesday. The rallies will be part of the countrywide mass outreach campaign on the BJP-led NDA government's completion of nine years in power at the Centre, he said. "The PM, Union home minister and BJP national president will address one rally each, across north and south Bengal, in June. The dates and venues are yet to be fixed," Majumdar told reporters. The Balurghat MP said the state unit of the BJP has decided to hold 1,000 big and small rallies across 1,000 mandals (local units) as part of the campaign. "Of these 1,000 rallies, 294 will be held in June itself," he said. Majumdar said other senior party leaders and ministers such as Sarbananda Sonowal, Dharmendra Pradhan, Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister Sidharth Nath Singh and Sushil Modi will address rallies in various parts of the state. Also Read Mamata Banerjee to leave for three-day tour to West Bengal districts Legal crisis erupts in Bengal over slander campaign against HC judge J P Nadda on two-day visit to West Bengal, to hold party meetings BJP President J P Nadda to address rallies in West Bengal on Sunday BJP President Nadda to visit Odisha tomorrow, to address 2 public meetings In the US, Rahul Gandhi mocks 'specimen Modi'; BJP slams his comment Congress guarantees a hoax, will bankrupt state: PM Modi at Ajmer rally 9 years of BJP at Centre dedicated to welfare of poor: PM Modi in Ajmer Will not allow BBMP to increase tax to fulfil guarantee schemes: K'taka AAP 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' now 'Beti BJP ke netaon se bachao': Cong to govt "As panchayat polls are knocking at the doors, the rallies by senior party leaders will provide an impetus to our campaign," he said. While the public meeting was to mark nine years of the Modi government at the Centre, the PM spoke of the Rajasthan assembly elections, which are six months away, reminding people how the Congress betrayed them by not fulfilling the guarantees it made to them in 2018. Modi appealed to the people to be wary of the Congress, its promises and politics that lacked vision. In his public rally in Rajasthans Ajmer on Wednesday the second in the state in the last 21 days Prime Minister Narendra Modi said priority to the deprived was the hallmark of nine years of his government. The PM slammed the Congress, and others, for their selfish protest in boycotting the new Parliament buildings inauguration and termed the Congress new formula of guarantees a hoax that, if implemented, would bankrupt the state and the country. The Ajmer rally was the PMs second public meeting since May 10, when he addressed one in Rajasthan's Abu Road, the day Karnataka voted. The Congress won in Rajasthan in November-December 2018 assembly elections, but the BJP swept its 25 Lok Sabha seats, including one that ally Rashtriya Loktantrik Partys Hanuman Beniwal won, in the 2019 general elections five months later. Beniwal parted ways with the BJP during the anti-farm laws agitation. The BJP has drawn an elaborate month-long plan to mark the Modi governments nine years, including reaching out to 10 million families in the state. The PM spoke about the Ajmer-Delhi Cantt Vande Bharat Express that he flagged off in April and the employment opportunities that have and will accrue to Rajasthans youth because of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway and the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor. Modi said international experts have noted that India was very close to ending extreme poverty. Modi spoke at length about the policy paralysis, terror incidents, and corruption that prevailed in 2014 before the country elected the BJP and how a superpower above the prime minister remote controlled the government. He also reminded people about former prime minister Rajiv Gandhis admission that only 15 per cent of money sent from Delhi reached people, as evidence that the Congress is a party that steals 85 per cent commission. The PM detailed the governments programmes and policies for the poor, women, ex-servicemen and small farmers. Modi alluded to the leadership contest between Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Congress leader Sachin Pilot, stating the instability and anarchy in the state, where crime is at its peak, on the infighting in the Congress. He accused the Congress government of appeasing terrorists, a reference to the acquittals in the 2008 Jaipur bomb blasts, and said it had failed to protect the interests of the daughters of the state. Also Read 9 years of BJP at Centre dedicated to welfare of poor: PM Modi in Ajmer High-voltage campaigning for Karnataka elections to end today at 5 pm Karnataka Assembly polls 2023: All you need to know about May 10 elections Karnataka Assembly polls: Rahul Gandhi promises Rs 2 hike in milk subsidy Karnataka elections: Here's what all Congress has promised in its manifesto 9 years of BJP at Centre dedicated to welfare of poor: PM Modi in Ajmer Will not allow BBMP to increase tax to fulfil guarantee schemes: K'taka AAP 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' now 'Beti BJP ke netaon se bachao': Cong to govt Kejriwal must answer why Sisodia's bail pleas are getting rejected: BJP Karnataka Dy CM Shivakumar meets Jagdish Shettar, says Congress with him The PM said the Congress and other parties insulted the 60,000 workers who constructed the new Parliament building by boycotting the inauguration. They are angry that a son of a poor family like him stands in their way and questions their nepotism and corruption, Modi said. Gettyimagesbank By Ko Dong-hwan A man who claims to be a former soldier is in a conflict with a district office in Seoul's northernmost suburb. He says he is on a mission to protect the capital from possible infiltrations by North Korean spies by raising stray dogs next to a popular mountain trail. Dobong District Office has been receiving mounting complaints from trekkers at Mount Bukhan about the canine shelters set up by the man more than a decade ago inside the national park. One hiker in his 80s said he has been aware of the shelter for some time and added that the man started expanding the shelter's size about 10 years ago. Most of the locals are not happy to see 10 dogs chained inside cages and apparently neglected. One local resident said she saw signs in front of the shelter warning: "Danger Dogs Nearby" and "You Are Being Recorded by Security Cameras." The owner of the dogs is apparently driven by patriotism. He said he has been voluntarily running the dog shelters following a high-profile national security breach in 1968 when 120 North Korean soldiers infiltrated South Korea's eastern coastal cities of Uljin and Samcheok. The incident saw 113 of the North Koreans killed and seven of them captured by the South Korean military. The man, whose name remains unknown, said he is angry at the locals for treating him like a criminal despite his patriotic efforts. He said he started his mission by occupying the site inside the national park and then started raising stray dogs as means of defense against North Korean infiltrators. The district office, however, said the man has been illegally occupying the site and ordered him twice in May to demolish the shelters and empty the site. They said they will report him to the police if he does not clear the site by the end of June. The district office said it received multiple reports of animal abuse from locals. But it added that the charge is not likely to be applied as the man does not seem to have harmed or attempted to kill the dogs. Officials at the national park said they will take action if the National Forest Service, the country's top national park overseer, gives them the green light. The political class has become intolerant towards their criticism in the media, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor said on Tuesday while observing that there has been a gradual depletion in the relation between the two. At the release of "Ringside: Up, Close and Personal on India and Beyond", a book by Vijay Darda, a three-time MP and chairman of the editorial board of Lokmat Media Group, Tharoor also said the media should also "hold a mirror to itself". "There has been a gradual depletion in the relation between the political class and media. The political class is no longer tolerant of their criticism in the media," the Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram said. Tharoor released the book in the presence of veteran politicians, including Farooq Abdullah, Varun Gandhi and Praful Patel among others. Sanjaya Baru, the former advisor to then prime minister Manmohan Singh, eminent journalists Rajdeep Sardesai, Shekhar Gupta, and managing director of Lokmat Media Group Devendra Darda were present on the dais. Baru lauded Darda's efforts in bringing to the fore the plight of the people of the Vidarbha region and his focus on getting it a status of a separate state like Telangana. Also Read JAC 12th Result 2023: Jharkhand's Commerce, Arts results to be soon today Challenge to build 'brand India' continues: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor Class 10, 12 boards results may take marks of previous class into account Despite being educated, unemployment rate high among Kerala youth: Tharoor Speak thoughtfully about colleagues, Tharoor's advice to Ashok Gehlot Uttarakhand CM inaugurates exhibition highlighting Modi govt's achievements Wish PM had lived up to his words of 'Naari Samaan': Shiv Sena MP Every decision guided by desire to improve lives of people: PM on 9 years Sisodia liable for corruption in Delhi excise policy formulation: BJP Home minister Amit Shah meets Kuki leaders; victims' kin to get Rs 10 lakh The book is a collection of write-ups by Vijay Darda which were published in the Lokmat Media Group's newspapers and other prominent national and regional dailies between 2011 and 2016. Rahul Gandhi is on a six-day tour of the US to consolidate support for the Congress, where he plans to meet a cross-section of people. In his address at Santa Clara, Gandhi said universal basic income, or Nyay scheme his party proposed in 2019, an increase in allocations for public education and public health, and the rural guarantee scheme are some ways to make India a much more equal and fair place. However, his comments on the PM riled the BJP. Addressing Indian Americans in Santa Clara in the US, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday morning described Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday as a specimen who thinks he knows more than God, prompting the BJP to criticise him as a fake Gandhi who insults India on foreign soil in his effort to target Modi. sponsored programmes for anti-India propaganda to insult India, the countrys national anthem and flag on foreign soil. To another of Gandhi's comments, where he drew a parallel between the alleged targeting of Muslims in India with what he said used to happen to Dalits in Uttar Pradesh in the 1980s, Thakur said Gandhi conceded that the Congress government of the time, as it was the ruling party at the Centre and in UP, perpetrated atrocities on Dalits and minorities. Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur claimed Gandhi went abroad on They think they know even more than God They can sit with God and explain to him whats going on. And, of course, our prime minister is one such specimen. If you saw Modiji sitting with God, he will explain to God how the universe works and God will get confused about what I have created, he said, evoking laughter from the audience. Addressing Indian Americans at the Mohabbat ki Dukan event organised by the Indian Overseas Congress, Gandhi said there was a disease with some people in India who are absolutely convinced that they know everything and can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army. Also Read Rahul Gandhi takes a late-night truck ride to speak to drivers; see video Rahul Gandhi convicted in Modi surname defamation case: What we know so far Modi thinks he knows everything, can even sermon God: Rahul Gandhi in US Rahul Gandhi to appeal against his conviction today; all you need to know Rahul Gandhi disqualified from Lok Sabha one day after conviction Congress guarantees a hoax, will bankrupt state: PM Modi at Ajmer rally 9 years of BJP at Centre dedicated to welfare of poor: PM Modi in Ajmer Will not allow BBMP to increase tax to fulfil guarantee schemes: K'taka AAP 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' now 'Beti BJP ke netaon se bachao': Cong to govt Kejriwal must answer why Sisodia's bail pleas are getting rejected: BJP In an address to the Indian diaspora here, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he decided to launch his Bharat Jodo Yatra was because the normal tools used for politics were being controlled by the BJP and RSS. Rahul arrived in San Francisco on Tuesday morning, kicking off his six-day visit to the US during which he is slated to meet American lawmakers, think tanks and also deliver lectures at the Stanford University and Harvard Club. He is currently travelling on an ordinary passport, after he had to surrender his diplomatic passport following his disqualification as a Lok Sabha MP. In his address on Tuesday evening, Rahul Gandhi said: "Few months ago, we started a walk from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. Prior to this, we found that the normal tools we used for politics like conversations like this, public meetings were not working in India. "All the instruments we needed to do politics were controlled by the BJP and the RSS. People are threatened and we also found that it was in some way it difficult for us to act politically. That was the reason why we decided to walk from the southern-most tip of India." Rahul also pointed out that when he started the yatra, he wanted to see what would happen next. Also Read Kamal Nath challenges BJP, RSS to discuss religion, spirituality with Rahul BJP, RSS capturing all institutions in country, says Rahul Gandhi BJP, RSS attacking democracy, spreading hatred: Rahul Gandhi in Karnataka Defamation complaint against Rahul Gandhi for 'Kauravas' remark on RSS RSS/BJP policies aimed at spreading fear, converting it to hatred: Rahul BJP 'threatening' people and 'misusing' government agencies: Rahul Gandhi Modi no king to practice transfer of powers using 'Sengol': Cong Goa chief Political class has become intolerant to criticism in media, says Tharoor Uttarakhand CM inaugurates exhibition highlighting Modi govt's achievements Wish PM had lived up to his words of 'Naari Samaan': Shiv Sena MP "After 5-6 days we realized that walking 4,000 km is not an easy thing. And I had an old knee injury that acted up and I thought that I was in real trouble. But I said I have no choice but to walk despite the pain. Then a surprising thing happened. I started noticing that after walking 25 km, I was not getting tired at all. We used to start at 6 a.m. in morning and finished walking by 7.30 p.m. and we I asked people walking if they felt tired, they also said that they were not tired. "I realised what was actually going on, it was not us who were walking, it was India that was walking. And the large number of people coming from all walks of life were creating an atmosphere of love and affection. And everyone was walking together and that's where we came up with the idea, 'nafrat ke bazar me muhabbat ki dukan kholni hai'," he said. He said that the government tried everything against his mega walkatahon, but the support grew. Slamming the government, the Congress leader said: "The assault that is taking place in India is taking place on our way of life." He then said that different languages and different people all are being attacked, adding that all great thinkers and gurus emphasized that one should not remain under the impression that one knows everything. "The world is too big and too complicated for any person to understand that he knows everything. This is the only disease that we have in a group of people in India who are convinced that they know everything. And they think that they are sitting with God and having a conversation what is going on, And of course the Prime Minister is one such specimen," Rahul said. "At the heart of this is mediocrity that they actually don't understand anything. Because in life you cannot understand anything if you don't listen. Biggest lesson I learnt from the yatra is that we have many things to learn from everyone. "We as the Congress are committed in making India a fair place. We believe deeply that India today in terms of its treatment of Dalits, tribals, poor people, minorities is not a fair place. There's a lot that can be done," the Congress leader added. Besides interacting with the Indian diaspora, Rahul is also meet venture capitalists, tech executives and students at Silicon Valley while in California. --IANS aks/ksk/ Although it is not clear so far when the company is going to launch the Xiaomi 14 pro, a reliable tipster leaked some important upcoming specifications for the Xiaomi 14 pro. The Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi recently released the Xiaomi 13 pro in February this year, and they are now planning to launch the Xiaomi 14 pro. It is expected that the new model will be available in the market by the end of this year. Xiaomi 14 Pro: Key Specifications Tipster has revealed some key Xiaomi 14 pro specifications in a popular microblogging platform, Weibo. Indiatvnews shared the leaked specification, check out the latest key specification of Xiaomi 14 pro. According to the leaked update, the device is going to have Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. The device will also come in two variants, one is a flat screen, and the other one is a curved screen. According to India TV News, The major highlight of the smartphone is that it is expected to be powered by an SM8650 chipset. The tipster further revealed that the device will have a 5000mAH battery backup with 90W/120W fast charging support. The upcoming Xiaomi device will also support 50W wireless charging support. Also Read Xiaomi 12 Pro, Redmi K50i available at discounted prices on Amazon: Details Xiaomi 13 Pro India pricing, launch offers, availability announced: Details Xiaomi 13 Pro review: Camera-focused phone that makes photography easy, fun Xiaomi launches Redmi Note 12 5G series smartphones in India: Details here Xiaomi to launch Redmi Note 12 5G series smartphones on January 5: Details Apple releases its classical music app on Google Play Store for Androids Apple XR headset specs leaked ahead of WWDC 2023; check details here Xiaomi partners with Dixon Technologies to make mobile phones in India Twitter testing new feature 'Notes on Media' to identify misleading media Indore girl among winners of Apple WWDC23 Swift Student Challenge The leaked information also shared that the smartphone Xiaomi 14 pro specification will also include an upgraded camera module with WLG High-Lens sensors. The flat version will support fast charging at 90W, while the curved version will support ever faster charging with 120W, reported India TV news. Australia's House of Representatives, or lower house of Parliament, on Wednesday passed a legislation to establish a referendum on the Indigenous Voice proposal. The lower house voted 121-25 in favour of the government's Constitution Alteration Bill, reports Xinhua news agency. This means Australians are now one step closer to voting on whether to establish an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the country's first referendum since 1999. The bill will now head to the Senate before the government sets a date for the poll later in this year. If successful, the referendum would alter the constitution to recognise First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice and establish the Voice as a body that would advise the federal parliament on issues relating to Indigenous Australians. In a tweet following the vote, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said: "Our Constitutional Alteration Bill has just passed the House of Representatives. We're one step closer to recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our Constitution." Also Read King Charles III's Coronation screen to have Commonwealth symbolism Sunak, wife Akshata to lead with UK flag at King Charles III's Coronation UK PM Rishi Sunak reads from biblical book at multi-faith Coronation We'll strengthen security cooperation: Australian PM ahead of India visit Buckingham Palace arrest not being treated as terror-related: Police Nvidia's market valuation touches $1 trn mark after beating rivals to AI 2 Saudi astronauts return from International Space Station after 9-day trip Elon Musk begins second day of China visit after emphasizing ties US military complains of unsafe, aggressive move by Chinese fighter jet LIVE: PM Modi to address rally in Rajasthan's Ajmer to mark 9 yrs in power The vote in Parliament coincided with more than 100 Australian migrant and cultural organisations joining forces to declare their support for the voice. The community organisations released a joint resolution asking for all Australians to work together on ensuring a referendum on the proposal is successful. --IANS ksk/ The chief executive officers of JPMorgan Chase and Tesla . both met separately with senior Communist Party officials this week against a backdrop of tumbling Chinese markets and disappointing economic data. China is rolling out the red carpet for global business leaders including Jamie Dimon and Elon Musk, seeking to allay fears the worlds second-largest economy is becoming more hostile toward foreign capital. The flurry of engagement comes after an espionage probe into expert consultancies used by firms to operate in China spooked foreign investors. President Xi Jinping called protecting industrial security the priority of priorities at a high-profile meeting this month. Members of Chinas powerful Politburo also sat down with executives from Starbucks and Jardine Matheson in recent days, while top ministers welcomed leaders from investment firm Franklin Templeton and British semiconductor software company, Arm. Foreign direct investment into China has plummeted, with investors pulling $30 billion out in the first quarter. The MSCI China Index is down more than 50% from its 2021 peak and foreign holdings of Chinese bonds fell again in April after rising slightly in March. Nervousness around anti-foreigner sentiment comes as China faces a sluggish post-pandemic recovery, reporting weak manufacturing and export data, as well as a property slump. Geopolitics has also made investors wary, as US President Joe Biden leads a global campaign to block China from high-end chips with potential military applications. Also Read Elon Musk credits father for teaching 'physics, engineering & construction' Elon Musk begins second day of China visit after emphasizing ties Tesla chief Elon Musk threatens to sue Microsoft for using data 'illegally' Twitter now worth just 33% of Elon Musk's purchase price, says Fidelity Musk engages in heated exchange with ex-Twitter employee; apologises later Earth is in danger zone in nearly all ecological ways, says study Global unemployment to fall 5.3%; low-income nations lag in recovery: ILO Twitter may worth one-third what Musk paid for it due to down investment US job openings rise to 10.1 mn, labour market strong despite rate hikes Global trade indicates possible turnaround in second quarter of 2023: WTO China drilling 10,000-m hole Xi no longer needs rapid growth to justify his rule, but if the economy is doing too badly it will bring extra security risks for him, said Alfred Wu, associate professor at the National University of Singapores Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. Chinese scientists have begun drilling a 10,000-metre (32,808 feet) hole into the Earths crust, as the worlds second largest economy explores new frontiers above and below the planets surface. Yihui Xie The narrow shaft into the ground will penetrate more than 10 continental strata, or layers of rock, according to the report, and reach the cretaceous system in the Earths crust, which features rock dating back some 145 million years. Drilling for what is set to be Chinas deepest ever borehole began in the countrys oil-rich Xinjiang region on Tuesday, according to the official Xinhua News Agency. Earlier that morning, China sent its first civilian astronaut into space from the Gobi Desert. President Xi Jinping called for greater progress in deep Earth exploration in a speech addressing some of the nations leading scientists in 2021. The construction difficulty of the drilling project can be compared to a big truck driving on two thin steel cables, Sun Jinsheng, a scientist at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, told Xinhua. Dimon hints at life after JPMorgan, may take public office Adam Haigh & Stephen Engle I love my country, and maybe one day Ill serve my country in one capacity or another, he said in a Bloomberg Television interview, when asked if hes ever considered a public office position. The financier is among a group of long-tenured Wall Street chiefs that also includes Brian Moynihan, 63, whos led Bank of America Corp. since 2010, and Morgan Stanleys James Gorman, 64, who became CEO at the start of 2010 and is stepping down within 12 months. Dimon, 67, who has been head of JPMorgan since 2005, has repeatedly said that he plans to remain atop the biggest US bank for five more years. JPMorgan Chase & Co Chief Executive Officer Jamie Dimon said running for public office has crossed his mind amid speculation on his long-term future beyond helming the financial services giant. For now, hes focused on his job running the largest US bank, a role hes quite happy in. But, I love what I do, he said. JPMorgan does a great job for helping Americans, for helping countries around the world. The Danish Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, used ChatGPT to help write a part of her speech in parliament. She wanted to highlight both the groundbreaking aspects and the potential risks of artificial intelligence (AI). This speech was given in the traditional manner as parliament was preparing to close for the summer. During her speech, Frederiksen surprised the legislators by revealing that the text she was reading was not written by her or any other human, but rather by ChatGPT. According to the French news hub, AFP, the prime minister acknowledged that although the AI-written text may not have always been accurate in terms of government details and punctuation, she found it both fascinating and terrifying to witness the capabilities of AI. ChatGPT gained significant attention last year for its ability to generate essays, poems, and conversations based on minimal prompts. This success led to a rush of investments into the field, but critics and insiders have raised concerns the report added. Some common worries include the potential for chatbots to spread misinformation on the internet, the possibility of biased algorithms producing discriminatory content, and the fear that AI-powered automation could lead to job losses in various industries. Some Danish citizens, however, were not impressed by this. One user on Twitter stated, I am glad that Christiansborg is starting to take AI seriously. But letting a chatbot write a speech is already oh so yesterday. Yes, that's how fast it goes. (translated from Danish) Jeg er om nogen glad for at Christiansborg begynder at tage AI serist. Men at lade en chatbot skrive en tale er allerede oh so yesterday. Undskyld med ja sa hurtigt gar det. #dkpol https://t.co/x96L8NiCj3 Christiane Vejl (@christianevejlo) May 31, 2023 Another user pointed out that for Sweden, the potential of AI was still not fully comprehended and this moment was enlightening. Another user stated, The Prime Minister should convene the social partners to discuss artificial intelligence! Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has just held an interesting closing speech, i.a. about artificial intelligence and ChatGPT. (Translated from Danish) London, 31 May Huw Jones So-called single name credit default swaps (CDS) have come under regulatory scrutiny after the fall and state-backed rescue of Credit Suisse triggered high volatility on the CDS market for some systemic banks, Deutsche Bank in particular, on March 24. The European Commission will propose greater transparency in the trading of credit default swaps of eight top banks to mirror rules in U.S. markets, a European Union document seen by Reuters showed on Wednesday. This would explain why a single, rather small CDS contract can trigger major moves in the price of both the CDS reference entitys debt and equity, said the paper which proposes targeted amendments to the blocs post-trade transparency rules for over-the-counter derivatives. One of the conclusions on the events of Friday, 24 March, was that single name CDS contracts are opaque and illiquid, the EU executive body said in a document for a meeting of EU states on Thursday. Also Read Sebi allows AIFs to participate in Credit Default Swap transactions Decoded: Life behind the ATM and how the cassette-swap mode will change it War rooms and bailouts: US banks, Fed are preparing for a US default South Korea and Australia renew currency swap deal for five years India's overnight swap market pricing in rate cuts before 2023 end: Experts China woos Jamie Dimon, elon Musk in search of economic boosters Earth is in danger zone in nearly all ecological ways, says study Global unemployment to fall 5.3%; low-income nations lag in recovery: ILO Twitter may worth one-third what Musk paid for it due to down investment US job openings rise to 10.1 mn, labour market strong despite rate hikes Credit Suisse axes China bank plan Credit Suisse has scrapped plans to set up a locally incorporated bank in China to avoid a potential regulatory conflict arising as a result of its merger with UBS, said two sources with direct knowledge of the matter. The Commission said it proposes to re-insert CDS on Santander, BNP Paribas, Credit Agricole, Deutsche Bank, ING Bank, Intesa Sanpaolo, Societe Generale and DZ Bank into the scope of derivatives transactions subject to post trade transparency. Credit Suisse bankers leaving by the hundreds Hundreds of Credit Suisses employees are resigning each week in a sign of uncertainty gripping the lender while it is being taken over by rival UBS, two people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. In China, a financial entity can apply for and get only one such license. US banks saw record deposit declines in Q1 US banks saw total deposits decline by a record 2.5 per cent in the first quarter of 2023, and industry-wide profits were relatively flat after taking into account the effects of two large bank failures, said the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The FDIC said the $472 billion in deposit outflows in the first quarter was the largest it had recorded since it began collecting such data in 1984. The decline was primarily from uninsured funds, as insured deposits rose $255.1 billion, or 2.5 per cent, amid the failures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. Reuters Seven people were arrested in raids across Germany on Wednesday against alleged members of a network that helped finance the Islamic State extremist group's activities in Syria, prosecutors said. The suspects four women and three men, with German, Turkish, Moroccan and Kosovo citizenship were arrested in five German states, while investigators searched 19 properties in Germany and one in the Netherlands, federal prosecutors said in a statement. The suspects are accused of supporting a foreign terrorist organisation and, in some cases, of violating export laws. Prosecutors allege that the suspects were financial intermediaries in a network in which two supporters of IS in Syria had sought donations for the group via Telegram since 2020. They allegedly collected and helped transfer donations. The money was used to strengthen IS and in particular to improve supplies to members of the group held at two camps in northern Syria, prosecutors said. In some cases, they added, the money enabled inmates to flee or be smuggled out of the Al-Hol and Roj camps. At least 65,000 euros (nearly USD 70,000) in total were transferred to Syria by the financing network, according to prosecutors. Also Read 'Dramatic decrease' in Islamic State activities in Iraq and Syria: US Iraq Christians were victims of Islamic State war crimes, says UN Quarter of Iraqi population beneath poverty line in 2022: Ministry Serbia places its troops on Kosovo border on combat alert, ignores NATO Pakistan must set its house in order: Global experts on its economic crisis Nepal PM Dahal to seek energy, new air route deals on India visit Sports leaders meet amid uncertainty over Russians playing Olympics 2024 Europe's fintech unicorn Taxfix lays off 120 employees to cut costs US judge orders lawyers not to use ChatGPT-drafted content in court China's smartwatch shipments declined by 28% YoY; lowest in 3 years Wednesday's arrests were linked to numerous other investigations of people accused of donating to the network, in which more than 90 other properties were being searched, they added. Global goods trade is expected to witness a turnaround in the second quarter of this year due to a recent pickup in export orders, the WTO said on Wednesday. According to the WTO's Goods Trade Barometer, preliminary data suggest that trade remained depressed in the first quarter of 2023. "But the recent pickup in export orders points to an increase in demand for traded goods in the second quarter," it added. These results are broadly consistent with the WTO's most recent trade forecast issued on April 5, which projects 1.7 per cent growth in world merchandise trade in 2023. The WTO's (World Trade Organisation) expectation augurs well for India, which is struggling to push its outbound shipments. India's exports contracted by 12.7 per cent, the third month in a row, to USD 34.66 billion in April even as the trade deficit reduced to a 20-month low of USD 15.24 billion, the government data showed. Also Read WTO ruling against India in tech tariffs dispute with European Union Future of trade is digital, green and inclusive, says WTO Director-General US duty on steel, aluminium inconsistent with global trade norms: WTO panel ICT levy dispute at WTO: EU may opt for retaliatory tariffs on Indian goods WTO rejects US move for 'Made in China' labeling on Hong Kong goods Pakistan minister slams IMF for 'intervening' in internal affairs Danish PM delivers ChatGPT-written speech to highlight risks posed by tech Pandemic curbs reduced aerosols' 'masking' effect, led to more warming Canada gives second chance to 700 Indian students who were victims of fraud Pak court extends Imran Khan's bail plea in corruption case for three days By Kang Seung-woo There are no signs yet of efforts in the Yoon Suk Yeol administration to de-escalate rising tensions with North Korea despite the northern neighbor's escalation in provocations, including an expansion of its nuclear capabilities. The Kim Jong-un regime ended 2022 with a record number of ballistic missile launches, firing missiles on 38 separate occasions. Last September, it also legalized the use of its nuclear weapons preemptively against foes threatening its leadership. Entering this year, its saber-rattling has continued as Pyongyang test-fired a new solid-fuel Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in April and it launched a military spy satellite, Wednesday although its rocket crashed into the sea. It vowed to conduct another launch as soon as possible. The satellite launch is seen as a disguised ballistic missile test because both use the same technology. Amid growing North Korean threats, the South Korean government has responded by strengthening extended deterrence with the United States, as evidenced by the deployment of U.S. strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula and the resumption of large-scale combined military exercises. And its efforts toward a more tangible U.S. extended nuclear deterrence reached fever pitch in April when President Yoon and U.S. President Joe Biden unveiled the Washington Declaration, under which the allies agreed to form a nuclear consultative group (NCG) and send U.S. a nuclear-armed submarine to the peninsula if necessary. The NCG is kind of a platform to address doubts over the credibility of Washington's extended deterrence commitment. Securing stronger extended deterrence from the U.S. is an undisputed diplomatic accomplishment under the Yoon administration, which seeks to achieve peace through the superiority of overwhelming force. Despite the feat, however, the president's hardline stance on North Korea barely stopped the Stalinist state from swiftly modernizing its nuclear arsenal, let alone discourage its nuclear ambitions. The South Korean government came up with its "audacious initiative" to entice Pyongyang to denuclearize. It promises the North Korean government an unprecedented level of economic support in exchange for ultimately giving up nuclear weapons but to no avail. It was even derided as "foolish" by the North Korean leader's sister, Kim Yo-jong. Compounding matters, North Korea has refused to answer daily calls via an inter-Korean liaison line and a military hotline since April 7. This has caused uncertainties over the prospects of inter-Korean relations given that the hotlines are the last resort by which the two Koreas can confirm each other's intentions in the event of an unforeseen situation. North Korea is, no doubt, mainly responsible for the current stalemate in inter-Korean relations. But it seems that South Korea and the U.S. no longer place much importance on finding a driving force for dialogue, with their unconditional and insistent rhetoric with the North ringing hollow. In his April interview with NBC News, Yoon said it was "unrealistic" to expect a nuclear deal with North Korea anytime soon. Acknowledging that it is not easy to find momentum in South Korea for the resumption of talks with North Korea amid inter-Korean confrontation, diplomatic observers are concerned that it is not a desirable situation because a conflict is highly likely by accident or miscalculation. Amid the escalation on the peninsula, South Koreans seem to favor a diplomatic approach. According to a poll by the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council (PUAC) in May, 34.7 percent of 1,000 respondents said Seoul's continuous dialogue proposal to Pyongyang was the best crisis management option on the peninsula, followed by enhanced international cooperation at 21.1 percent and military buildup at 15.8 percent. The PUAC is a presidential consultative body set up to draw up policies on democratic and peaceful unification. Kang Seung-woo is political editor at The Korea Times. KATHMANDU, May 31 (Reuters) - Nepal's Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal will seek a long-term deal to export hydroelectric power and the opening of new air routes through India during his visit to New Delhi beginning on Wednesday, officials said. By Gopal Sharma The visit is a tradition of new Nepali leaders making New Delhi their first foreign port of call after assuming office, underlining the strong ties between the neighbours. The four-day visit is Dahal's first foreign trip since he was elected prime minister again in December. He has visited India twice before in two previous tenures as prime minister dating back to 2008. "We also want India to facilitate the export of our electricity to Bangladesh, Saud told reporters. Foreign Minister Narayan Prakash Saud said Nepal was seeking long-term deals on energy, including more Indian investment in hydroelectric projects and the construction of transmission lines between the two countries. Also Read Nepal's PM to expand cabinet, Congress to get key ministerial portfolios Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' takes oath as Nepal's new prime minister Nepal seeks to sign electricity deal with India during Prachanda's visit Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda set to take oath as Nepal's new PM today Nepal PM Prachanda to embark on 4-day official visit to India on May 31 Sports leaders meet amid uncertainty over Russians playing Olympics 2024 Europe's fintech unicorn Taxfix lays off 120 employees to cut costs US judge orders lawyers not to use ChatGPT-drafted content in court China's smartwatch shipments declined by 28% YoY; lowest in 3 years China warns of AI risks, calls for beefed-up national security measures Kathmandu wants to export the excess energy to power hungry India, its biggest economic and trade partner. Nepal, which has the potential to generate up to 42,000 megawatts of hydroelectric power, hopes to produce about 3,500 megawatts by next year against its domestic demand of 2,000 megawatts. During the visit, Dahal will urge India to open three more points along their border from which airlines can enter and exit Nepal's air space. That would help boost air traffic to two new international airports - one in the tourist town of Pokhara and the other near Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, officials said. India is investing billions of dollars in infrastructure including hydropower plants, as New Delhi looks to grow its influence among its smaller neighbours, where China is also increasingly active. Dahal, a 68-year-old former Maoist rebel leader, will meet his counterpart Narendra Modi on Thursday. This will save flight time to and from the west by about 15 minutes, reduce fuel consumption and make flights cheaper,a Jannath Niroula, a spokesman for the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), told Reuters. North Korea said Wednesday that its attempt to launch the country's first spy satellite has failed. In a statement published on state media, North Korea said a rocket carrying the spy satellite crashed into waters off the Korean Peninsula's western coast after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages. It said scientists were examining the cause of the failure. South Korea's military earlier said the North Korean rocket had "an abnormal flight" before it fell in the waters. North Korea launched a rocket Wednesday, South Korea and Japan said, prompting brief evacuations in those countries as the North appeared to be attempting to put its first military spy satellite into orbit. The rocket was launched about 6.30 am from the North's northwestern Tongchang-ri area, where the country's main space launch centre is located, the Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. Also Read N Korea conducts 'important' test for developing reconnaissance satellite N Korea tells neighbour Japan it plans to launch satellite in coming days OneWeb satellites soon to offer space-based internet services globally Kim Jong-un says N Korea has finished development of 1st spy satellite S Korea slams Pyongyang's planned satellite launch, warns of consequences Debt limit deal in place but budget deficit still a challenge for US govt Possible Putin trip in spotlight as Russia, China ministers to meet in SA Ukraine's economy shows 'resilience' from Russian attacks, says IMF BRICS bank NDB looks to find ways to fulfil its Russia obligations Issa brothers to merge Asda with petrol station biz in $2.8-billion deal South Korea's military was trying to confirm whether the launch was successful, according to the statement, which also noted that South Korea has bolstered its military readiness in close coordination with the United States. Following the launch, the South Korean capital of Seoul issued alerts over public speakers and cellphone text messages telling residents to prepare for evacuation. But there were no reports of damages or major disruption and Seoul later lifted the alert. The Japanese government activated a missile warning system for its Okinawa prefecture in southwestern Japan, believed to be in the path of the rocket. "Please evacuate into buildings or underground," the alert said. Authorities later lifted the calls for evacuation. Japan's coast guard said Monday that North Korea informed it of a plan to launch a satellite between May 31 and June 11. Japan's defense minister had ordered its forces to shoot down the satellite or debris, if any entered Japanese territory. A satellite launch by North Korea is a violation of UN Security Council resolutions that ban the country from using ballistic technology because it's regarded as a cover for missile tests. Ri Pyong Chol, a top North Korean official and close associate of leader Kim Jong Un, had said on Tuesday that North Korea was compelled to secure "a reliable reconnaissance and information" system because of what it said were escalating security threats by the United States and its allies. He said the North would launch a spy satellite in June. It wasn't immediately clear whether a North Korean spy satellite would significantly bolster its defences. The satellite disclosed in the country's state-run media didn't appear to be sophisticated enough to produce high-resolution imagery. But some experts note that it is still likely capable of detecting troop movements and big targets, such as warships and warplanes. Recent commercial satellite imagery of the North's main rocket launch center in the northwest showed active construction activities indicating that North Korea plans to launch more than one satellite, however. And in his statement Tuesday, Ri said the country it would be testing various reconnaissance means." He said those surveillance assets are tasked with tracking, monitoring, discriminating, controlling" and responding, both in advance and real time, to moves by the United States and its allies. With three to five spy satellites, North Korea could build a space-based surveillance system that allows it to monitor the Korean Peninsula in near real-time, according to Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Korea's Science and Technology Policy Institute. During his visit to the country's aerospace agency earlier this month, Kim emphasized the strategic significance a spy satellite could have in North Korea's standoff with the United States and South Korea. The satellite is one several high-tech weapons systems that Kim has publicly vowed to introduce in recent years. Other weapons he has pledged to develop include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. Denuclearization talks with the US have been stalled since early 2019. In the meantime, Kim has focused on expanding his nuclear and missile arsenals in what experts say is an attempt to wrest concessions from Washington and Seoul. Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has conducted more than 100 missile tests, many of them involving nuclear-capable weapons targeting the US mainland, South Korea and Japan. North Korea says its testing activities are self-defense measures meant to respond to expanded military drills between Washington and Seoul that it views as invasion rehearsals. US and South Korean officials say their drills are defensive and they've bolstered them to cope with growing nuclear threats by North Korea. The UN imposed economic sanctions on North Korea over its previous satellite launches, which it views as covers for testing its long-range missiles. China and Russia, permanent members of the UN council who are now locked in confrontations with the US, already blocked attempts to toughen sanctions over Pyongyang's recent ballistic missile tests. Before Tuesday's launch, both South Korea and Japan said such a move would undermine regional peace. The South Korean Foreign Ministry warned that North Korea would face consequences. After repeated failures, North Korea successfully put its first satellite into orbit in 2012, and the second one in 2016. The government said both are Earth-observation satellites launched under its peaceful space development programme, but many foreign experts believed both were developed to spy on rivals. By Ryan Vlastelica and Ian King Nvidia Corp.s market valuation fleetingly crossed the $1 trillion threshold on Tuesday after the chipmakers artificial intelligence prospects vaulted it into an elite club of just five American companies. Nvidia was up 3% to $401.11 as of the close in New York, putting its market capitalization at $990.7 billion. The stock rose as much as 7.7% early in the session, putting Nvidia well into $1 trillion territory, before retreating from the milestone during the afternoon. Alphabet Inc., Amazon.com Inc., Apple Inc. and Microsoft Corp. are the only other US businesses to have trillion-dollar valuations, and fewer than 10 companies globally have achieved the distinction. In a speech at the National Taiwan University over the weekend, Jensen Huang shared the philosophy that has brought his company to this moment: Run, dont walk, he said. Either you are running for food, or you are running from becoming food. No other company embodies Wall Streets current obsession with AI more than Nvidia. It has become the worlds biggest maker of the specialized chips needed to power a new generation of AI products, surpassing Advanced Micro Devices Inc. and Intel Corp. in capability just as the viral success of ChatGPT has virtually every company around the world baking AI into its operations. Also Read Nvidia's live-streaming tool Broadcast can now simulate eye contact Chip-maker Nvidia releases update to fix Discord bug slowing down GPUs How Nvidia is leading other chipmakers amid the emergence of ChatGPT Nvidia accidently leaks specs of 'unlaunched' graphics card RTX 4070 Ti CES 2023: Asus unveils Republic of Gamers' gaming laptops with new CPUs 2 Saudi astronauts return from International Space Station after 9-day trip Elon Musk begins second day of China visit after emphasizing ties US military complains of unsafe, aggressive move by Chinese fighter jet Latest LIVE: Rahul Gandhi takes jibe at PM Modi at San Francisco event US sanctions Chinese, Mexican companies over pill making machinery Nvidias shares have soared since last week when it gave an AI-fueled sales forecast that shattered Wall Streets estimates. The stock continued to gain Tuesday after announcing several new artificial intelligence-related products over the weekend that touch on everything from robotics to gaming to advertising and networking. Huang also unveiled an AI supercomputer platform that will help tech companies create their own versions of ChatGPT. Huangs urgency and his willingness to take risks that other rule-by-committee businesses dare not is what compelled Nvidia, the Silicon Valley chipmaker he founded 30 years ago, to make big bets on artificial intelligence years before anyone else was taking it seriously. Today, its proving to be the companys golden goose. Not everyone is bullish. In an interview on Bloomberg TV on Friday, Cathie Wood, whose flagship ARK Innovation ETF fund cut its holding in Nvidia in January, warned that the computer-chip industrys boom-bust cycles pose risks. There are a few reasons we take some pause, she said, with competition growing among firms for a piece of the AI market. She called Nvidia a a check-the-box stock. Its too much, Huang said during his presentation of the platform in Taiwan. I know its too much. Last week, the company issued an AI-fueled sales forecast of $11 billion in the fiscal second quarter, blowing Wall Street targets out of the water and growing its value by $184 billion in a single day. Huang has a knack for riding tech trends selling graphics chips that powered everything from the video game boom to the rise of cryptocurrency and the industrys big bet on the metaverse. But arguably no trend stands to benefit his company, today the worlds most valuable chip company, more than the rise of artificial intelligence. We have never seen a guide like the one Nvidia just put up, Sanford C. Bernstein analyst Stacy Rasgon said at the time. Nvidia was co-founded in 1993 by Huang. It proved more successful than its peers at developing chips that turn computer code into the realistic images that computer gamers love, and rode out a wave of consolidation that saw its rivals acquired, bankrupted or merged into larger companies. Nvidia was co-founded in 1993 by Huang. It proved more successful than its peers at developing chips that turn computer code into the realistic images that computer gamers love, and rode out a wave of consolidation that saw its rivals acquired, bankrupted or merged into larger companies. Under Huang, the company then pushed its technology into new markets, such as data center servers and artificial intelligence processing a move thats proving prescient today. In less than a decade, Nvidias data center business has grown from $300 million in annual revenue to $15 billion. The chipmaker has won orders to equip giant computing factories by successfully arguing that graphics chips can handle AI workloads better than more standard processors. Its become commonplace for tech companies to talk up their artificial intelligence prospects during earnings conference calls. References to AI soared after the launch of ChatGPT in November, and they dont always spark a stock rally. But Nvidia has now become the model of a company thats actually making money from AI. Its the seller of picks and shovels in the gold-rush analogy. Under Huang, the company then pushed its technology into new markets, such as data center servers and artificial intelligence processing a move thats proving prescient today. In less than a decade, Nvidias data center business has grown from $300 million in annual revenue to $15 billion. The chipmaker has won orders to equip giant computing factories by successfully arguing that graphics chips can handle AI workloads better than more standard processors. Nvidias success has made investors even gloomier about Intel, a Silicon Valley pioneer and the company most synonymous with computer chips. While many chipmakers saw their stocks gain in the wake of Nvidias blockbuster earnings last week, Intel actually fell. Nvidias valuation is now more than eight times that of Intel, despite the company having far less revenue. A new research has found that Covid pandemic restrictions led to stronger climate warming. The study from Stockholm University, Sweden, said that this was because the restrictions reduced the aerosol content in the air mass over South Asia, mainly Pakistan, India and Bangladesh, but had no effect on the concentrations of the longer-lived greenhouse gases. A lower aerosol content meant less cooling, because of less reflection of incoming solar radiation back into space, and thus less 'masking' of the warming effect of the significantly longer-lived climate gases. Measurements taken at the same time over the northern Indian Ocean revealed a 7 per cent increase in solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface, thus increasing temperatures. Measurements were taken at Hanimaadhoo, a measuring station in the northernmost Maldives off the coast of India. The results published in NPJ Climate and Atmospheric Science showed that a complete phasing out of fossil fuel combustion in favour of renewable energy sources with zero emissions could result in rapid 'unmasking' of aerosols, while greenhouse gases linger. In the spring of 2020, pandemic restrictions significantly reduced industrial activity and transportation worldwide, both of which are known to cause emissions of sulphur and nitrogen oxides and other air pollutants leading to aerosol formation. Also Read Covid kills one person every four minutes as vaccination rates fall Covid's omicron variant, thought to be milder, can increase diabetes risk Centre tells states to conduct Covid mock drills in hospitals as cases rise States to conduct mock drills next week to review Covid preparedness India introduces new Covid-19 rules for travellers from six countries Canada gives second chance to 700 Indian students who were victims of fraud Pak court extends Imran Khan's bail plea in corruption case for three days China takes 'approriate' action, denies visas to 2 Indian journalists China assures Lanka of 'steadfast support' on its road to economic recovery Germany arrests 7 alleged members of network that helped Islamic State The study said that the pandemic became a 'natural' experiment to examine what happens to the climate if gas and aerosol emissions were rapidly reduced. "Through this large-scale geophysical experiment, we were able to demonstrate that while the sky became bluer and the air cleaner, climate warming increased when these cooling air particles were removed," said Orjan Gustafsson, professor at Stockholm University, lead researcher and responsible for the measurements in the Maldives. "During a couple of decades, emission reductions risk leading to net climate warming due to the 'masking' effect of air particles, before the temperature reduction from reduced greenhouse gas emissions takes over. But despite an initial climate warming effect, we obviously still urgently need a powerful emission reduction," said Gustafsson. The researchers said they have been measuring the atmospheric composition and radiation for soon two decades. The measuring station is strategically placed to capture air masses from the Asian subcontinent and located in an area with few regional emission sources. New York, 31 May Mae Anderson Of the 343 CEOs in the compensation survey of S and P 500 companies done by the AP and Equilar, only 20 were women. Because they are a small group, changes in pay for only a few can easily skew the overall figures. Last year was a mixed bag pay-wise for the women who run companies in the S and P 500 compensation increased for more than half of them, but the median pay package fell 6 per cent. Overall, female CEOs saw their performance bonuses fall 13 per cent to $2.8 million last year and stock awards fall 4 per cent to an average of $10 million. Their median total compensation fell 6 per cent to $14.7 million. The median pay for male CEOs rose 1 per cent to $14.8 million. The drop comes after a 26 per cent jump in the value of pay packages for female CEOs in 2021, a year when compensation reflected a recovering economy and soaring stock prices and profits. Many chief executives were rewarded for steering their companies through the worst of the pandemic. Also Read T20 World Cup Final Highlights: Australia complete 2nd hattrick of titles Women's T20 World Cup: India fail again, lose to AUS by 5 runs in semifinal Women's T20 World Cup Semis: South Africa create history, qualify for final Women's T20 World Cup final: Australia vs South Africa live stream in India India W vs Australia W, Women's T20 World Cup: How to live stream in India European Union for greater transparency for default swaps on 8 banks China woos Jamie Dimon, elon Musk in search of economic boosters Earth is in danger zone in nearly all ecological ways, says study Global unemployment to fall 5.3%; low-income nations lag in recovery: ILO Twitter may worth one-third what Musk paid for it due to down investment The APs and Equilar's compensation study included pay data for 343 CEOs at S and P 500 companies who have served at least two fiscal years at their companies, which filed proxy statements between Jan 1 and April 30. We still do not have enough women CEOs, said Lorraine Hariton, President and CEO of Catalyst, a nonprofit organization focused on women in the workplace. Its hard to make a comment about pay when we really dont have a big enough sample size. Lisa Su, CEO of Advanced Micro Devices, was the highest paid female CEO in the AP survey for the fourth year in a row, but she slipped to 26th highest paid overall, from 22nd last year. Su was the highest paid of all CEOs, men and women, in 2019. Most of a CEOs pay package consists of stock and stock options awards. At AMD, stock awards and options made up more than 90 per cent of Sus pay. Some notable female CEOs arent included because they became CEO less than two years ago or their companies file proxy statements at a different time, including Roz Brewer at Walgreens Boots Alliance, Jane Fraser at Citigroup and Linda Rendle at Clorox. The UN nuclear chief stressed Tuesday that the world is fortunate a nuclear accident hasn't happened in Ukraine and asked Moscow and Kyiv to commit to preventing any attack on Europe's largest nuclear power plant and make other pledges "to avoid the danger of a catastrophic incident." Rafael Grossi reiterated to the UN Security Council what he told the International Atomic Energy Agency's board of governors in March: "We are rolling a dice and if this continues then one day our luck will run out." The IAEA director general said avoiding a nuclear accident is possible if five principles are observed at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, where fighting on seven occasions, most recently last week, disrupted critical power supplies, "the last line of defense against a nuclear accident." Grossi "respectfully and solemnly" asked Ukraine and Russia to observe the principles, saying IAEA experts at Zaporizhzhia will start monitoring and he will publicly report on any violations: Ban attacks from or against the plant, especially targeting reactors and spent fuel storage areas. Ban the storage of heavy weapons or presence of military personnel that could be used for an attack. Ensure the security of an uninterrupted off-site power supply to the plant. Protect "all structures, systems and components" essential to the plant's operation from attacks or acts of sabotage. Take no action to undermine these principles. Grossi asked the 15 Security Council members to support the five principles, stressing that they are "to no one's detriment and to everyone's benefit." The Kremlin's forces took over the plant after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy opposes any proposal that would legitimize Russia's control. Also Read Ukrainian nuclear plant loses power supply again, is 'extremely vulnerable' IAEA to send permanent technical missions to all nuclear plants in Ukraine 400,000 gallons of radioactive water leaked from US nuclear power plant Russia's Rosatom sends 'more advanced' fuel option for Indian nuclear plant Fukushima's nuclear wastewater can produce cancers on release: Scientists Wildfire on Canada's Atlantic coast spurs evacuation of 16,000 people North Korea's attempt to launch first spy satellite ends in failure Debt limit deal in place but budget deficit still a challenge for US govt Possible Putin trip in spotlight as Russia, China ministers to meet in SA Ukraine's economy shows 'resilience' from Russian attacks, says IMF A US military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be announced this week will total up to USD 300 million and will include additional munitions for drones, US officials said Tuesday. The drone ammunition comes after new attacks by unmanned aircraft targeted Moscow. There has been no suggestion that US-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow, and US officials have repeatedly said that Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. The Kremlin blamed Kyiv for Tuesday's attack, but Ukrainian officials had no direct comment. But the new aid package comes at a tense moment in the war. The latest drone attack on Moscow follows Russia's seizure of the eastern Ukrainian city Bakhmut after a nine-month battle that killed tens of thousands of people. Ukraine is also showing signs that its long-awaited spring counteroffensive may already be underway. The Russian Defence Ministry said five drones were shot down in Moscow and the systems of three others were jammed, causing them to veer off course. President Vladimir Putin called it a "terrorist" act by Kyiv. A US defence official said the drone strikes would not affect the weapons aid packages the US is providing Ukraine, to include drone ammunition. The official said the US has committed to supporting Ukraine in its effort to defend the country and Ukraine had committed to not using the systems inside Russia, so the aid would likely continue unchanged. All of the US officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because the latest aid package has not yet been publicly announced. Also Read US commits $2 billion in drones, ammunition, aid in new package to Ukraine US to send Ukraine dozens of Bradleys in $2.85 billion aid package China's Xian Bingo in talks with Russia to supply 100 drones: Report Russia hits Ukraine energy infra with 16 Iran-made drones, says officials US officials point to Russia using Iranian drones in war with Ukraine China's factory activity falls faster than expected on weak demand Twitter now worth just 33% of Elon Musk's purchase price, says Fidelity Zelenskyy discusses strengthening Ukraine's defence with Germany's Scholz Pakistan a 'very high concern' area in food insecurity, says UN report UN urges Russia, Ukraine to ban attacks at Zaporizhzhia power nuclear plant US officials did not provide details on the drone munitions in the new aid package or specify which unmanned aircraft would use them. The Defense Department has given Ukraine a variety of unmanned aircraft over the last year, for both surveillance and attacks, including at least two versions of the Switchblade, a so-called kamikaze drone that can loiter in the air and then explode into a target. Other more sophisticated drones can drop munitions, but the US has been reluctant to publicly share details about those. Also included in the newest package will be munitions for Patriot missile batteries and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), Stinger missiles for the Avenger system, mine-clearing equipment, anti-armour rounds, unguided Zuni aircraft rockets, night vision goggles, and about 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition, said the US officials. The aid greatly resembles other recent US packages, which have focused on providing Ukraine more ammunition for the weapons systems it has and helping it prepare for a counteroffensive to push back against Russian gains over the past year. Ukrainian officials have not formally announced the launch of their much-anticipated counteroffensive, although some say it has already begun and the pace of attacks suggests that it's underway. Including the latest aid, the US has committed more than USD 37.6 billion in weapons and other equipment to Ukraine since Russia attacked on February 24, 2022. This latest package will be done under presidential drawdown authority, which allows the Pentagon to take weapons from its own stocks and quickly ship them to Ukraine, officials said. Officials said the US is expected to announce the aid as soon as Wednesday. Tuesday's strikes on Moscow were the second drone strikes on the city since May 3, when Russian officials said two drones targeted the Kremlin in what they portrayed as an attempt on Putin's life. Ukraine denied it was behind that attack. US intelligence officials were still trying to ascertain if Ukraine had any involvement in or prior knowledge of Tuesday's drone attack in Moscow, according to a US official familiar with the matter who was not authorized to comment and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Last week, the Russian border region of Belgorod was the target of one of the most serious cross-border raids since the war began, with two far-right pro-Ukrainian paramilitary groups claiming responsibility. The US conveyed after that incident that American-made weaponry must not be used inside Russia, according to a US official familiar with the sensitive communications. The message was "very clearly understood," according to the official. Officials in the southern Russian city of Krasnodar, near annexed Crimea, said two drones struck there on Friday, damaging residential buildings. Other drones have reportedly flown deep into Russia multiple times. Ukrainian military analysts, though unable to confirm Kyiv had launched the drones against Moscow, said the attack may have involved UJ-22 drones, which are produced in Ukraine and have a maximum range of about 1,000 kilometers. US officials struck a delicate balance in responding to the drone strikes, reiterating support for Ukraine while stressing that the US opposes Ukrainians using American weapons in Russia. They noted that Russia's bombardment of Kyiv on Tuesday was the 17th round of attacks this month, "many of which have devastated civilian areas. A US federal judge has categorically told lawyers that he will not allow any AI-generated content in his court. Texas federal judge Brantley Starr said that any attorney appearing in his court must attest that "no portion of the filing was drafted by generative artificial intelligence", or if it was, that it was checked "by a human being", reports TechCrunch. "All attorneys appearing before the court must file on the docket a certificate attesting either that no portion of the filing was drafted by generative artificial intelligence (such as ChatGPT, Harvey.AI, or Google Bard) or that any language drafted by generative artificial intelligence was checked for accuracy, using print reporters or traditional legal databases, by a human being," read the standing order. According to the judge, these AI platforms are incredibly powerful and have many uses in the law -- form divorces, discovery requests, suggested errors in documents, anticipated questions at oral argument. "But legal briefing is not one of them. Here's why. These platforms in their current states are prone to hallucinations and bias. On hallucinations, they make stuff up -- even quotes and citations," the judge's order further read. Last week, ChatGPT had fooled a lawyer into believing that citations given by the AI chatbot in a case against Colombian airline Avianca were real while they were, in fact, bogus. Also Read Donald Trump faces setbacks in other probes as New York case proceeds Bard, Bing and Baidu: How big tech's AI race will transform searches Southwest Airlines cancels more flights, draws federal investigation Google settles 2 more location tracking lawsuits worth $29.5 million in US 18,000 cows killed in Texas dairy farm explosion, deadliest barn fire in US China's smartwatch shipments declined by 28% YoY; lowest in 3 years China warns of AI risks, calls for beefed-up national security measures Trump vows to end birthright citizenship if he wins in US prez polls 2024 China's industry minister, Tesla's Musk meet, discuss electric cars Amazon workers upset over job cuts, return-to-office mandate stage walkout Lawyer Steven A. Schwartz, representing a man who sued an airline, admitted in an affidavit that he had used OpenAI's chatbot for his research. After the opposing counsel pointed out the non-existent cases, US District Judge Kevin Castel confirmed that six of the submitted cases "appear to be bogus judicial decisions with bogus quotes and bogus internal citations". The judge set up a hearing as he considered sanctions for the plaintiff's lawyers. Last month, ChatGPT, as part of a research study, falsely named an innocent and highly-respected law professor in the US on the list of legal scholars who had sexually harassed students in the past. Jonathan Turley, Shapiro Chair of Public Interest Law at George Washington University, was left shocked when he realised ChatGPT named him as part of a research project on legal scholars who sexually harassed someone. "ChatGPT recently issued a false story accusing me of sexually assaulting students," Turley posted in a tweet. --IANS na/ksk/ The US military said Tuesday that a Chinese fighter jet flew aggressively close to a US reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea, forcing the American pilot to fly through the turbulent wake. The Chinese J-16 fighter pilot "flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135,"" which was conducting routine operations in international airspace last Friday, US Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement. It called the Chinese move an " unnecessarily aggressive maneuver. US defense leaders have complained that China's military has become significantly more aggressive over the past five years, intercepting US aircraft and ships in the region. And tensions with China have only grown in recent months over Washington's military support and sales of defensive weapons to self-governing Taiwan, China's assertions of sovereignty to the contested South China Sea and its flying of a suspected spy balloon over the US. In a further sign of the tensions, China said its defense chief will not meet with US. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when the two men attend a security conference in Singapore this coming weekend. Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, said China informed the US that it was declining Austin's invitation to meet while they were at the conference. He said Beijing's "concerning unwillingness to engage in meaningful military-to-military discussions" will not diminish the Defense Department's commitment to seeking open lines of communication with the Chinese army. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Tuesday blamed the US, saying Washington should "earnestly respect China's sovereignty and security interests and concerns, immediately correct the wrongdoing, show sincerity, and create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for dialogue and communication between the two militaries". Also Read Chequered history: Why the MIG-21 came to be called 'the flying coffin' Jet Airways looks into abyss as JKC fails to renew its flying permit 45 fighter jets including Sukhois, Rafales perform during 74th R-Day Parade BJP says Odisha unsafe for women, children; BJD dismisses charges Japan to jointly develop 'next-genenration' fighter jet with UK, Italy Latest LIVE NEWS: Early morning rain lashes parts of national capital Delhi US sanctions Chinese, Mexican companies over pill making machinery US aid for Ukraine will total about $300 mn, include munitions for drones China's factory activity falls faster than expected on weak demand Twitter now worth just 33% of Elon Musk's purchase price, says Fidelity In a visit to the Indo-Pacific last summer, US Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the number of intercepts by Chinese aircraft and ships in the Pacific region with US and other partner forces has increased significantly over that time, and the number of unsafe interactions has risen by similar proportions China frequently challenges military aircraft from the US and its allies, especially over the strategically vital South China Sea, which China claims in its entirety. Such behaviour led to a 2001 in-air collision in which a Chinese plane was lost and pilot killed. Beijing deeply resents the presence of US military assets in that region, and regularly demands that American ships and planes leave the area. In the statement Tuesday, the US Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to "fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows," and expects all other countries to do the same. The United States Treasury sanctioned more than a dozen people and businesses in China and Mexico Tuesday that allegedly helped provide machines used to make counterfeit prescription drugs in the latest efforts to confront trafficking of the deadly synthetic opioid fentanyl. Those targeted for sanctions were all involved in one or another with the sale of pill press machines, molds and other equipment drug cartels use to produce counterfeit pills. "Treasury's sanctions target every stage of the deadly supply chain fuelling the surge in fentanyl poisonings and deaths across the country," Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson said in a statement. Among those sanctioned were Chinese pill press supplier Youli Technology Development Co., Ltd. of Huizhou, China and three affiliated Chinese citizens. Treasury said the company had shipped pill press machinery to people in the US involved in making counterfeit pills. The US sanctions also target related companies Yason General Machinery Co., Ltd. and Yason Electronics Technology Co., Ltd, both of Shenzhen, China. Yason has allegedly worked with a Mexico-based pill equipment supplier who had provided equipment to a Sinaloa cartel-linked person. This individual used the machines to create superlabs in Mexico with the capacity to produce millions of fentanyl-laced pills weekly, the Treasury Department said. Also Read Mexico grants asylum to family of Peru's ousted President Castillo Iran to uphold nuke commitments, if sanctions removed: Iranian atomic chief European Union approves new sanctions against Russia over war in Ukraine Business initiative that has a heart: Lupin eyes Lyfe beyond the pill Supreme Court asked to preserve abortion pill access rules US aid for Ukraine will total about $300 mn, include munitions for drones China's factory activity falls faster than expected on weak demand Twitter now worth just 33% of Elon Musk's purchase price, says Fidelity Zelenskyy discusses strengthening Ukraine's defence with Germany's Scholz Pakistan a 'very high concern' area in food insecurity, says UN report Chihuahua, Mexico-based Mexpacking Solutions, which sells pill presses and other equipment is allegedly controlled by a Sinaloa cartel pill press provider, according to the Treasury. Three individuals related to the company were also sanctioned. The sanctions imposed by Treasury's Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC) freeze assets of the companies and people in the United States. They also prohibit US citizens and businesses from any transactions with the targeted entities. In April, US prosecutors announced indictments against members of Mexico's Sinaloa cartel over its production and trafficking of fentanyl. Synthetic opioids have been blamed for tens of thousands of US deaths annually in recent years. While US authorities have said that Mexico is cooperating, including in some of the sanctions against Mexican citizens announced Tuesday, President Andrs Manuel Lpez Obrador has repeatedly denied that Mexico produces the powerful drug. By Arthur I. Cyr Memorial Day, celebrated on May 29, is cause for contemplation as well as ceremonies. Parades featuring people in uniform those currently serving, those who have served, and others who protect us should always be welcome. Military uniforms remind us of the roles of war in our history and our present. From ancient times, parades have been vital to the reintegration of warriors into society. War is profoundly disruptive and disturbing as well as dangerous. Even the rare man who finds combat invigorating and rewarding is in severe need of returning home after the killing ends. Homer, chronicler of the Trojan War, is extremely sensitive to this. The great classic is divided into two parts. "The Iliad" focuses on the fighting and related associations involving Greeks and Trojans; "The Odyssey" describes the very long voyage home of Greek leader Ulysses and his men. They traverse allegorical geography, struggling to put the horrors behind them. General George S. Patton Jr., a very great American combat leader, was extremely mindful of this dimension. A special ceremony in the Los Angeles Coliseum after the surrender of Nazi Germany featured Patton and General James Doolittle, who led the first air raid on Tokyo not long after Pearl Harbor. Patton celebrated the accomplishments of his Third Army in the victorious drive across Europe. In honoring his troops, he stressed in particular the 40,000 who lost their lives. Patton made such statements regularly in the few months remaining of his own life. In World War II, peoples liberated from Axis occupation welcomed Allied troops. Understandably, our media gave special emphasis to this dimension. The Korean War created very strong bonds between the U.S. and the people as well as the very effective military of South Korea. The first Gulf War liberated an oppressed population. The Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan wars were different. During Vietnam, the Pentagon urged, sometimes ordered, personnel to practice public anonymity. Opposition to the war became hostility to our own military. There was no collective welcome home. Many aging veterans of that war suffer without a Ulysses, troubled and troublesome, sometimes criminally. Afghanistan and Iraq war controversy did not target our military. Visits to Washington D.C. provide reminders of the visibility of the uniformed military, especially on public transportation. President Richard Nixon's decisive end of the military draft has been crucial in the change. However, often-rapid rotation of personnel back to overseas missions is unfair as well as counterproductive. Enormous psychological strains join physical danger, and families suffer heavily. The all-professional military is segregated from wider society. This in turn facilitates frequent personnel rotation overseas, a problem that developed destructively during the Clinton administration. The military remains a vital engine for equality and opportunity. General Colin Powell and many others demonstrate the point. Powell, from modest origins, achieved the most senior civilian and military posts in our government. Powell noted he experienced discrimination in the South, but never on post. Our military emphasizes merit. Memorial Day provides the opportunity to recognize commitment to fairness. Encourage veterans to run for office. We won the Cold War in part because members of the World War II generation also served in government. Every U.S. president from Harry Truman through George H.W. Bush was a veteran. Today, things are starkly different. What we need above all is the sort of sensible realism women and men who served bring to policy. Learn more: "Patton A Genius for War," by Carlo D'Este, and the film "Patton." Arthur I. Cyr (acyr@carthage.edu) is the author of "After the Cold War" (NYU and Palgrave/Macmillan). A wildfire on Canada's Atlantic coast has damaged about 200 houses and other structures and prompted the evacuation of 16,000 people, many of whom were eager to return Tuesday to see whether homes and pets had survived Firefighters worked through the night to extinguish hotspots in the fire that started in the Halifax area on Sunday, Halifax Deputy Fire Chief David Meldrum said. He said it was too early to give an exact count of homes destroyed, but the municipal government put the toll at about 200 buildings. Dan Cavanaugh was among two dozen people waiting Tuesday in a Halifax-area parking lot to learn if their suburban homes had been consumed by the wildfire. "We're like everyone else in this lot," said the 48-year-old insurance adjuster. "We're not sure if we have a house to go back to or the extent of the damages." Police officers were writing down the names of residents and calling people to be escorted to see what had become of their properties. Sarah Lyon of the Nova Scotia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said an eight-member team was preparing to head out into the evacuation zone to retrieve animals left behind. In all, about 16,000 people have been ordered to leave their homes northwest of Halifax, most of which are within a 30-minute drive of the port city's downtown. The area under mandatory evacuation orders covers about 100 square kilometers. Sonya Higgins said she and more than 40 others waited in a nearby supermarket parking lot to be led into the evacuation area, in hopes of retrieving seven cats from two homes. Also Read Canada sets goal to conserve 30% land-water by 2030 for sustainability Excessive methane emitted from mega wildfires fuels vicious cycle: Study Climate change sparks disaster fears in Anchorage Hillside, Alaska 21 dead from wildfire in Russia's Ural Mountains; death toll may rise Congress Prez Kharge lauds Indian Coast Guard's 'unparalleled' commitment North Korea's attempt to launch first spy satellite ends in failure Debt limit deal in place but budget deficit still a challenge for US govt Possible Putin trip in spotlight as Russia, China ministers to meet in SA Ukraine's economy shows 'resilience' from Russian attacks, says IMF BRICS bank NDB looks to find ways to fulfil its Russia obligations Higgins runs a cat rescue operation in Halifax, and she says the pet owners contacting her are "frantic" to find their animals and get them to a safe place. Earlier in the day, fire officials said that with the return of dry, windy conditions on Tuesday, there could be a "reburn" in the evacuated subdivisions. The extended forecast is calling for hotter weather on Wednesday and no rain until Friday at the earliest. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a phone conversation with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, discussed the further strengthening of Ukraine's defence capabilities. The issue of boosting Ukraine's air defence was mentioned during the talks, Zelensky tweeted on Tuesday, describing the conversation as "substantive". Zelensky said that he thanked Scholz for implementing a defence package for Ukraine worth 3 billion euros (about $3.22 billion), Xinhua news agency reported. They also discussed the implementation of the agreements reached during Zelensky's recent visit to Germany and coordinated their positions on the eve of upcoming international events. On May 14, Zelensky visited Germany. Before the visit, the German government announced that it would provide more than 2.7 billion euros (about $2.9 billion) in military aid for Ukraine. --IANS Also Read Ukrainian President Zelensky meets Canadian FM on defence cooperation Ukraine is not attacking Russian territory, says President Zelenskyy Volodymyr Zelensky to visit Japan to attend G7 summit this weekend: Report This will be the year of our victory: Zelensky on Russia war anniversary European Union assures Ukraine of support as Zelensky visits Brussels Pakistan a 'very high concern' area in food insecurity, says UN report UN urges Russia, Ukraine to ban attacks at Zaporizhzhia power nuclear plant Wildfire on Canada's Atlantic coast spurs evacuation of 16,000 people North Korea's attempt to launch first spy satellite ends in failure Debt limit deal in place but budget deficit still a challenge for US govt int/sha Korea should be open, diverse and inclusive society "The long-term risk to South Korea's economic growth is intensifying demographic pressure," Moody's Investors Service said in its sovereign credit rating report last Thursday. It then advised Seoul to let more young foreign workers immigrate to Korea to boost productivity and balance the old-age support ratio, at least temporarily. Even ordinary Koreans know this is necessary. The question is how to do it and how fast it can be done. According to the global credit rating agency, Korea's growth potential will slow to 2.0 percent after 2025. A United Nations report also said Korea's economically active population aged 15-64, which increased 11 percent from 1998 to 2017, will decrease 24 percent during 2020 to 2040. The situation is urgent. Even if Korea manages to lift the world's lowest birthrate of 0.78, it will take at least 15 years for those births to begin to expand the country's working-age population. Expanding the female workforce is one possible path. But that has limitations due to mismatches in industrial sites. Women cannot fill all of the welding jobs at shipyards or augment the crew of fishing boats sailing off to distant seas. That leaves immigration as the only short-term solution. But the government is not sitting around idly. President Yoon Suk Yeol recently called for "bolder and preemptive" moves. The Ministry of Justice will operate a task force to launch the Office of Immigration, an independent agency responsible for all related issues led by a vice-ministerial official. Minister Han Dong-hoon visited France, Germany, and the Netherlands in March to learn from their experiences. Han said he will not rush to establish such an agency, but make sure to set the necessary groundwork. We support that view. Now that Korea has become an industrialized country, it must tackle the immigration issue head-on. The nation must take a broad, long-term approach while making more immediate, short-term moves. Still, the government should reconsider plans to hire housekeepers from Southeast Asian countries. The idea, first proposed by Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and backed by the president, will cause more problems than solutions if put into action. The mayor cited the examples of Hong Kong and Singapore, where he said families use foreign maids who are paid 380,000 won to 760,000 won ($287-$574) a month. That idea, however, is not viable here. First, the Employment Permit System necessitates the application of Korean labor laws to foreign workers and paying the legal minimum wage of about 1 million won or more monthly. Suppose Seoul makes an exception and excludes foreign workers from minimum wages, as some ruling party lawmakers proposed. In that case, the nation will be criticized for being discriminating and inhumane. Second, the foreign maid system slightly raised the social participation rate of women in Singapore, but failed to do so in Hong Kong. In both city-states, it bore no relation to birthrates. Third, not many Korean families want to hire nannies or maids from abroad, and those who want them cannot afford to pay expenses. The government, instead of lowering the labor standards for migrant workers, must lift them. Everyone knows that Korean shipyards, steel plants, small workshops, and farms and fishing communities cannot go on without foreign workers. However, the employment permit system virtually "expels" them when they become skilled workers. Complicated reentry procedures and other legal shackles expose them to the tyranny of employers. Korea cannot afford to let that happen. Japan, similar to Korea in its low birthrate and psychological adherence to the concept of purity of blood, is going far beyond Korea, flinging its doors open to foreign workers. Tokyo has increased the number of industries that can give permanent residence to skilled guest laborers, offering various other benefits. All countries make immigration policies to fill in their industrial and social gaps. However, there are differences in national prestige between those that try to exploit foreign workers and those who seek to grow with them. Korea must belong to the latter group by becoming an open, diverse, and inclusive country. Furthermore, it must improve the education system for children of highly-skilled workers from overseas. The bulk of American Nobel laureates are immigrants and their descendants. We hope the proposed Office of Immigration will move in that direction. By Robert Neff John Baptiste Bernadou, a 24-year-old ensign in the United States Navy temporarily assigned to the legation in Seoul, may have been one of the earliest Western pathfinders between Seoul and two former Korean capitals (Gaeseong and Pyongyang) but his narrative was often lacking. This is extremely frustrating as he was so meticulous with his annotations of material collected while on his travels. Perhaps after a hard day of trekking in the mud and his constant upset stomach, he just did not have the energy to devote to writing in detail about the seemingly mundane villages he passed especially so early in his journey. He briefly noted that in the immediate vicinity of Seoul, the soil was poor and provided only light crops, but after some 20 kilometers, "the character of the country changes, and from here on it is wonderfully fertile." He explained, "Great stretches of wheat and rice fields are to be seen, and beans and peas are grown in quantity. The country is cut up into a series of small valleys by low ranges of hills; these are cultivated nearly to their summits, and there is little waste ground. In the vicinity of tombs, however, the land remains untouched; these are of frequent occurrence, and are built in groups on the hillsides." As we have earlier seen, Bernadou had a great interest in grave sites. "[On] the side of a steep hill, in a dense grove of pines, have been erected two huge stone figures. They stand side by side, the heads tower above the trees and may be seen at a distance of at least five miles. The bodies are carved in relief out of the rock face; the heads, huge stones, skillfully put in place, are of five layers, the two lower in each forming the face; the three upper the hat. In one figure the hat rim is round, in the other square; these are said to be symbolical of heaven and earth. The [Koreans] say, however, that the figures are of Buddhist origin, and that there are many throughout the country. According to his Korean guide, there was an even larger statue in the south said to be the largest on the peninsula that stood more than 21 meters tall. Bernadou never managed to visit it but his rival, Ensign George C. Foote, did . Although Bernadou passed through Paju, he did not write about it. So once again, we are forced to rely upon the narratives of his peers. A Korean market at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries Robert Neff Collection Ensign George C. Foulk, an American naval officer, wrote: "[Paju] county town is 14 miles from [Goyang] and is a first class county in the province, presided over by an officer called moksa, two grades higher than that of [Goyang] (hunsu). The town contains about 300 houses of the same wretched description as those in [Goyang], with some population of shops the whole contents of which might be purchased for four or five dollars; at one or two places some Chinese trinkets in colored silks were sold and the smallest amount of cotton piece goods. [Paju] is above the average Corean large town in importance and size yet there no evidences of trade or town government as we understand them, worth noting. It is but the official residence of the officer who collects the revenue of the valley, surrounded by the bulk of the peasants who cultivate it. The Yong-mun or official residence, seems very imposing as compared with the flat brown, paintless area of huts about it." A cloth merchant carries his goods on his back. Courtesy of Diane Nars Collection A guide post, photographed by Pierre Louis Jouy in the mid-1880s. Annual Report of the Regents of the Smithsonian Institute (1891) The South Gate of Gaeseong circa early 20th century was built between 1391 and 1393. It was badly damaged during the Korean War and was rebuilt in 1954. Robert Neff Collection By Robert Neff In the late 19th century, the people of Gaeseong were somewhat unlike the residents of other parts of the peninsula. When John Baptiste Bernadou, a 24-year-old ensign in the United States Navy temporarily assigned to the legation in Seoul, visited the city in early July 1884, he noted that the people of Gaeseong dressed somewhat differently from the people in Seoul. In one of the few articles he published about Korea, he wrote: "The black hat so common in the former city [Gaeseong] is replaced by a bullock driver's hat of matting, and the green gown worn over the head as a veil by the women of the capital is not here seen." It is a shame that he did not elaborate on some of the other differences, but fortunately, other subsequent visitors did. Some of these visitors noted the great hospitality they received from the residents treated to pears, dried persimmons, dates and other dainties while picnicking in the ruined palace or at the tombs. One missionary noted that they were extremely conservative "anything like modern life or activity" was foreign and they were "uncouth in behaviour' as they [were] in other details of life." They were also very defiant and resented the glory that once belonged to their city before the fall of Goryeo and the establishment of Joseon in 1392. A small store in the early 20th century Robert Neff Collection In the 1890s, Mary Gifford, the wife of one of the first American teachers in Korea, verified Bernadou's earlier observation and tied it to the people's resentment of their political fate: "The inhabitants of [Gaeseong] have never been willing to acknowledge the present dynasty, and to this day the citizens, except the unimportant [commoner], wear huge hats such as we see in Seoul worn by the countrymen. They have never forgiven providence for the fall of their dynasty and refuse to look toward his dwelling place. They declare themselves still without a sovereign." Two women in Seoul are dressed to go out in the late 19th or early 20th century. Robert Neff Collection As Bernadou noted, the people of Gaeseong had a "reputation for commercial shrewdness" but he never elaborated as to the reasons. According to a later writer, this was also a result of the change of dynasties and the capital moving to modern-day Seoul. "All who hailed from [Gaeseong] were debarred from holding office. With the path of political preferment officially closed to them the chief incentive to the study of the classics was taken away. Deprived of other opportunities the people turned to trade; not trade on a large scale which discovers new markets, takes risks, has in it an element of adventure and results in a broadening of the interests, but rather a cautious, careful, bargaining kind of trade which develops shrewdness, persistence and endurance and cultivates an unemotional type of mind that shrinks from any great adventure of the spirit." Economic success also bred jealousies. People in Seoul referred to their northern neighbors as low-class money-grubbers. The insults were not one-sided. One observer noted that while most people on the Korean Peninsula ate "Yi rice" (implying the Joseon Kingdom), the people of Gaeseong ate "Wang rice" ('wang' meaning king and representing the Goryeo Kingdom). "[The people of Gaeseong] also established a new method of measuring or handling grains, casting it over the back of the hand in emptying the measure. Seeing men handling grain in the ordinary way, the writer took the measure and casting the contents over the back of the hand asked them why they did not handle it that way. One replied, 'That is the way rustics do.' Another, thinking the remark of his friend had not been sufficiently distinct added: 'That's the way they do in [Gaeseong].'" Straw shoes being sold in a market in the late 19th or early 20th century. Courtesy of Diane Nars Collection According to the same account, farmers in the Gaeseong area often defiantly called their pigs "Seong-gye a name which the people dare not utter." Yi Seong-gye was the name of the founder of Joseon before being crowned as King Taejo. Considering Gaeseong's entrepreneurship, it isn't surprising to note that in 1898, the city was said to have only one beggar. Of course, he wasn't an original inhabitant of Gaeseong, but "an importation" from Seoul. State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Zip Code Admit cards for the NEST 2023 exam will be available for download on www.nestexam.in on June 12, 2023, for those who have applied. Admit cards for NEST 2023 will be made available online, and applicants can get them through the NEST website. The NEST 2023 Exam will be held on June 24, 2023. Overview Exam Name National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) 2023 The exam conducting body NISER, Bhubaneshwar, and UM-DAE CEBS, Mumbai Mode of exam Online Courses offered 5 years of integrated M.Sc courses NEST Admit Card 2023 Release Date 12 June 2023 NEST 2023 Exam Date 24 June 2023 Official website www.nestexam.in National Entrance Screening Test 2023 The National Institute of Science Education & Research will only administer the National Entrance Screening Test 2023 for those who have applied and are eligible. The NEST 2023 Exam is planned for June 24th, 2023. How to Download the Admit Card Candidates should first visit the National Institute of Science Education & Research's official website at www.nestexam.in Select the NEST Admit Card link. The login page will then be redirected. Enter the required details, such as the application number and date of birth. Submit the form by clicking the Submit button. The NEST Admit Card will then appear on the screen. Download the NEST Admit Card 2023 here. Applicants must double-check the information on their admit card. Take a printout of it and save a copy of the Admit Card. Then, in the test hall, candidates must provide their NEST Admit Card along with their identification. Details Mentioned in NEST Admit Card In recent months, approximately 40 medical colleges across India have lost their recognition due to alleged non-compliance with the standards set by the National Medical Commission (NMC). Additionally, around 100 more medical colleges in states like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Assam, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry, and West Bengal are expected to face similar action, according to official sources cited by PTI. These colleges were found to be in violation of established norms during inspections conducted by the Undergraduate Medical Education Board of the Commission. The lapses identified included deficiencies related to CCTV cameras, Aadhaar-linked biometric attendance procedures, and faculty rolls. This development comes at a time when the government has been taking various measures to increase the number of medical seats in the country. One such initiative is the centrally-sponsored scheme for the establishment of new medical colleges by upgrading district/referral hospitals. Out of the 157 approved colleges, 94 are already functional. According to government data, the number of medical colleges has significantly risen since 2014. Minister of State for Health, Bharati Pravin Pawar, informed the Rajya Sabha that the count of medical colleges has increased by 69%, from 387 before 2014 to 654 currently. The number of MBBS seats has witnessed a surge of 94%, from 51,348 before 2014 to 99,763 at present, while the number of PG seats has increased by 107%, from 31,185 before 2014 to 64,559 now. However, the derecognition of these colleges will considerably reduce the number of medical seats, potentially leading to a crisis in the country's healthcare system. Earlier, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya had cautioned that action would be taken against medical colleges that fail to comply with rules or maintain adequate faculty. He emphasized the importance of providing quality education to students and producing competent doctors. The loss of recognition for these medical colleges highlights the significance of adhering to established standards in medical education. It serves as a reminder that maintaining compliance is crucial for ensuring the delivery of quality healthcare services and producing skilled medical professionals. The concerned authorities must address the deficiencies promptly to prevent any negative impact on the overall medical education landscape in India. Songmi Han delivers a speech at the 15th Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy on May 17, in Geneva. Courtesy of Casey Lartigue By Songmi Han My mom gave me two lives. First, when she gave birth to me in 1993. Second, when she rescued me from North Korea in 2011. If there's a hero in my story, it's her. North Korea might be the worst place on earth to raise a child, but North Korean mothers are brave and they will do anything they can to save their children. My name is Songmi Han. I was born in rural North Korea to an affluent family, but when I was 3 years old, my father started beating my mom. Finally, she divorced him and I ended up attending elementary school for only one year. We lived in a barn with cows for two years. But I have fond memories of that time because I developed such a deep relationship with my mom. Two days before my twelfth birthday, my mom said she had to leave but she'd be back by October 10th. She wrote down a multiplication table for me to memorize. I studied hard, but October 10th came and went. I started to panic. Where was she? I stayed at my auntie's house. When I heard a train approaching, I would run to the station asking strangers, "Have you seen a lady who looks like this?" I wasn't the only one the train stations were filled with homeless children. Many couldn't even recall their mother's face. Eventually, Mom sent us a letter just wait a little longer, she would return to me, she said. So I waited. But life in North Korea was miserable. My grandfather starved to death. One of my uncles starved to death. Another uncle threw himself in front of a train. I would walk down the street and see dead children and dead adults. Many times, I was on the verge of starvation and I considered suicide. Three different times my mom sent brokers to rescue me. But my aunt warned me that I could get sold in China, or they could harvest my organs. So, I stayed. When I was 15 years old, I saw my first public execution. They forced everyone in our area, including the woman's husband and 4-year-old daughter, to watch as they tied her up and shot her three times. I will never forget hearing the gunshots and watching her tumble forward. I was so, so scared. When I was 17, I remember thinking, "I just don't have a future in North Korea. And I really miss my mom." I had memorized the phone number of the second broker my mom sent years before, so I called him and whispered, "I'm ready to go there." He asked, "Are you sure this time?" I said, "Yes." I couldn't tell anyone. The broker wouldn't let me sit with him on the train. I was so scared. Then, a guard checking IDs asked me, "Where are you going?" I lied and told him I was visiting my grandma in Hyesan. "No, you're not," he said, "I know you're going to China!" He started beating and kicking me. Then he took me to the police office in the train station and a different guard tried to rape me. I pushed him away and ran until I saw a group of soldiers. "Please help me! He's trying to do strange things!" They scared the guard away. I asked a soldier if I could have some money to call my grandma. I ran to a payphone and called the broker. This time, we made it to the border. I followed two smugglers across the freezing cold water of the Tumen River. The guards shot at us, but luckily, they missed and we made it to China. The next morning, the broker called my mom. I was so happy. I thought I would get to see her for the first time in six years! But she said she was in South Korea. I followed the brokers through China, Laos and Thailand, and arrived in South Korea on May 20th, 2011, my mom's birthday. Reuniting with my mom was the happiest moment of my entire life. I couldn't stop crying. But my mom was confused! "Are you sure you're my daughter? You're so short!" she said. My aunt had told her that I had grown tall. It's taken me years to start healing from a lifetime of trauma. As I was preparing to give this speech, my mom showed me her diary. On August 26, 2006, my mom sold herself as a wife to a Chinese man and then she ran away to South Korea, so she could work and save money to rescue me. I hope North Korean children waiting for their moms can hear this. They need to know they're in their mother's heart forever and they will do anything they can to save them from this horrible regime. I tell my mom all the time, "Thank you so much, Mom. You are so brave!" And my mom tells me, "No, Songmi. You're brave. I'm so proud of you." The writer delivered this speech at the 15th Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy on May 17, 2023. She is co-author with Casey Lartigue of her memoir "Greenlight to Freedom: A North Korean Daughter's Search for Her Mother and Herself." The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) has announced the results for the Bihar Board Class 12 compartment exams held in 2023. Students who appeared in the supplementary exams can now check their marks on the official website, biharboardonline.bihar.gov.in. With a staggering number of 2,52,638 students unable to clear the Bihar Board Class 12 exams, the release of the compartment results brings hope and opportunities for them to improve their scores. This year's overall pass percentage for the Class 12 exams stood at 83.70%, with notable performances in the arts, commerce, and science streams. How to check BSEB 12th Compartment Results 2023 To access your Bihar Board intermediate compartment exam results, follow these simple steps: Visit the official website of BSEB: biharboardonline.bihar.gov.in or secondary.biharboardonline.com. Look for the link titled "BSEB 12th Intermediate Compartment Exam Results 2023" and click on it. Enter your roll code and roll number in the provided fields. Submit the details, and your BSEB 12th supplementary results for 2023 will be displayed on the screen. Passing Criteria and Stream-Wise Performance To pass the supplementary exams, students must achieve a minimum mark in each subject and an overall pass percentage of 35%. According to the stream-wise results, the arts stream recorded a pass percentage of 84.33%, followed by commerce at 96.39%, and science at 86.98%. These results showcase the dedication and hard work of the students who strived to overcome their academic challenges. The SEBA Assam 12th Result 2023 is likely to be announced very soon on the official website for students who have successfully appeared for the final board examinations. It is expected that the Assam Higher Secondary Education Council (AHSEC), the exam conducting body, will declare the results today. Students can access the result on the official website, resultsassam.nic.in, once it is declared. Applicants are advised to regularly check the website for updates and information regarding the SEBA Assam Class 12 result. While the official confirmation regarding the result declaration is still awaited, students can stay prepared to download their results from the dedicated results portal. To pass the SEBA Assam Class 12 board examination 2023, students must score a minimum of 30 percent marks, including both theory and practical papers. Steps to check the SEBA Assam 12th Result 2023 Visit the official website of SEBA Assam. Look for the highlighted link tab available on the homepage. Click on the login option. Enter the required details as asked. Click on the submit button. Download the result and take a screenshot of it for future reference. It is crucial for students to retain a copy of the result for future use and reference during further academic or career pursuits. American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) Chairman James Kim speaks during the AMCHAM ESG Seminar at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Wednesday. Courtesy of AMCHAM North Korea's projectile launch has limited impact on foreign biz community By Park Jae-hyuk Instead of being panicked by the Seoul Metropolitan Government's erroneous alert over North Korea's firing of what it claimed to be a "space launch vehicle" on Wednesday morning, American businesspeople here regarded the incident as further proof of the importance of the alliance between South Korea and the U.S. During the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea's (AMCHAM) ESG seminar held a couple of hours after the false alarm surprised the Korean capital's 10 million residents, AMCHAM Chairman James Kim said in his opening remarks that a "very interesting wake-up call" this morning proved the importance of the two countries' relations. "Now with Japan and Korea having really improved their ties, it's just great news for everybody here in the business community," he said. American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) Chairman James Kim delivers opening remarks during the AMCHAM ESG Seminar at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Wednesday. Courtesy of AMCHAM Mathias Vaitl, newly appointed CEO of Mercedes-Benz Korea / Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Korea By Baek Byung-yeul Mercedes-Benz Korea appointed Mathias Vaitl, who currently leads Mercedes me, Digital Services Business and eCommerce, as its new CEO, the Korean unit of the German luxury car brand said, Wednesday. Mercedes-Benz Korea said the new CEO's term will begin on Sept. 1. Thomas Klein, the current CEO, will be promoted as head of Product Management & Sales Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars & Integrated Production, Sales and Inventory Planning at Mercedes-Benz Group AG. The company said Vaitl has an extensive and proven track record in various business areas in digital services, sales and customer service in many countries. "I am very excited to take the role of CEO of Mercedes-Benz Korea, the fourth-largest market and one of the most dynamic and trend-setting markets in the world," Vaitl said. "I will devote myself to listening and learning customers' demands and work closely together with Korean colleagues and dealers to strengthen customer satisfaction and continue the success story." Vaitl graduated with a diploma in business administration from Nuertingen-Geislingen University specializing in automotive industry and international business management in 2005. In the same year, he joined Mercedes-Benz as a business manager for a dealer network at its subsidiary in Prague, Czech Republic. Since then, he has gathered extensive proven experience in digital services, sales and customer service in countries such as China, the company said. Within Mercedes-Benz, the Korean unit is considered a key position as the brand is one of the most popular foreign car brands here. Dimitris Psillakis, the current CEO of Mercedes-Benz North America, also served as CEO of the Korean unit from 2015 to 2020. In 2022, the Korean market accounted for 4 percent of the German company's total vehicle sales, following China with 37 percent, the U.S. with 15 percent and Germany with 11 percent. Korea is the No. 1 market globally for the E-Class mid-size sedan. Cement Australia extends use of battery electric vehicles 31 May 2023 Cement Australia has been granted funding to lease 24 batteries and convert six diesel prime movers in its Melbourne fleet to electric drivetrain. Backed by the Commercial Sector Innovation Fund, Cement Australia will also install swap-out charging infrastructure with a minimum of three charging units, according to Prime Mover Magazine. The company will complete a trial/demonstration stage for 12 months, which will include the testing and observation of performance of battery electric vehicle (BEV) prime movers in 24-hour operation, including maintenance and repair requirements, training of personnel, and reliability and wear and tear of charging infrastructure. Upon completion, the cement producer will carry out a post-trial assessment of outcomes. December 2022 saw Cement Australia deliver its first load in New South Wales using a BEV-converted Kenworth T410 Glider. Published under This file photo shows the EV9, Kia's second model equipped with Hyundai Motor Group's dedicated EV platform. Courtesy of Kia Kia Corp., Korea's second-biggest carmaker, said Wednesday it will suspend the operation of one of its eight domestic plants during the second half of this year in preparation for electric vehicle (EV) production. Kia, a smaller affiliate of Hyundai Motor Co., will begin the construction Thursday to change the No. 1 Gwangmyeong plant, just south of Seoul, into an EV plant by the end of December, the company said in a regulatory filing. It may take time for the plant to begin EV production after the six-month suspension period, the filing said. The Stonic subcompact sport utility vehicle produced at the No. 1 Gwangmyong plant will be manufactured by Donghee Auto, which has churned out the Morning and the Ray mini cars for Kia, a company spokesman said. Kia has eight plants in Korea two in Gwangmyeong, three in Hwaseong and three in Gwangju and seven overseas ones three in China and one each in the United States, Slovakia, Mexico and India. Their overall annual capacity is 3.84 million units. In April, the maker of K5 sedans and Sorento SUVs said it aims to sell 1 million EVs in 2026, and gradually fill its EV lineup with 15 models by 2027. Kia recently unveiled the flagship EV9 electric SUV ahead of its domestic launch during the second quarter. It plans to gradually launch the EV9 in Europe, the United States and other markets in the second half. The three-row seat EV9 is Kia's second model equipped with Hyundai Motor Group's dedicated EV platform, called E-GMP, after the EV6 SUV launched in 2021. It comes with a 99.8 kilowatt-hour battery and is expected to travel more than 500 kilometers on a single charge. On the same day, most of its domestic plants suffered from production losses due to four-hour partial strikes at each plant under the guidelines of the Korean Metal Workers' Union, Kia said in another filing. But the company didn't provide further details about the partial strikes. (Yonhap) Shin Dong-woo, head of Haleon's Korean unit, speaks during a press conference at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul. Courtesy of Haleon By Baek Byung-yeul Centrum, a multivitamin brand of global healthcare company Haleon's, will launch three new probiotics products made by its Korean R&D center and produced by its Korean contract manufacturing organization (CMO) partner in order to improve its presence in the country's growing probiotics market, according to the company, Wednesday. "Haleon is the No. 1 player in the global consumer healthcare market with a 6 percent share as of 2021. The company has teamed up with Korean CMO company Kolmar BNH to launch new probiotic products for Korean customers," Shin Dong-woo, head of Haleon's Korean unit, said during a press conference in Seoul. Haleon was launched in 2022 after completing its spinoff from global pharmaceutical company GSK. The company is a leader in the consumer healthcare markets, selling numerous well-known brands such as Advil, Sensodyne, Panadol, Voltaren, Theraflu, Otrivin, Polident, Parodontax and Centrum. The company said it will release three new probiotics products Centrum Probio Slim Care, Centrum Probio Immune Care and Centrum Probio Night Care. They will be released in the market on June 5. The products are designed to support gut health. Slim Care helps reduce body fat, Immune Care works to boost immunity and antioxidants, and Night Care is designed to improve sleep quality, Haleon said. Lee Unn, a marketing manager of the company, said the company decided to develop the products targeting Korean consumers because the country is its fourth-largest market. "The Korean market is Centrum's fourth-largest market after the U.S., China and Italy, so the company has developed and launched new products tailored to domestic consumers. We are also aiming to expand into the global market in the future," Lee said. The Nuri space launch vehicle blasts off from Naro Space Center in Goheung, South Jeolla Province, Thursday, to place satellites into orbit 550 kilometers above the Earth. Courtesy of Korea Aerospace Research Institute Locally-developed rocket succeeds in putting satellites into space By Baek Byung-yeul Korea succeeded in launching a locally-developed space rocket, Thursday, placing satellites into Earth orbit to mark another milestone in the country's space program and solidify the nation's position as an aerospace powerhouse. The science ministry said Thursday that the Nuri rocket lifted off successfully from Naro Space Center in Goheung, South Jeolla Province, and placed eight satellites, including its main payload, the NEXTSAT-2 satellite, in orbit 550 kilometers above the Earth. Lee Jong-ho, minister of science and ICT, announces the successful launch of Korea's homegrown space rocket Nuri at the Naro Space Center in Goheung, South Jeolla Province, Thursday. Courtesy of Korea Aerospace Research Institute "Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) confirmed that the Nuri rocket successfully separated and released the second next-generation small satellite, the NEXTSAT-2, on its target orbit based on the initial analysis of the Nuri's telemetry data containing the launch vehicle's flight information," Lee Jong-ho, minister of science and ICT, said at Naro Space Center. The Nuri, also known as Korean Space Launch Vehicle II (KSLV II), lifted off at 6:24 p.m., completing the separation of the first and second stages and the fairing to cruise smoothly into space. After reaching an altitude of 550 kilometers, the Nuri began its mission of releasing the eight satellites. Starting with the NEXTSAT-2, the eight satellites were separated at 20-second intervals. After all eight satellites were separated, the Nuri ended its flight 1,138 seconds or 18 minutes and 58 seconds after the launch. "At around 7:07 p.m., it was confirmed that the NEXTSAT-2's signal was received from the King Sejong Station in Antarctica. On Friday, we will check the status of the satellite in detail through two-way communication with the ground station at KAIST in Daejeon four times from around 5:05 a.m. to 7:51 p.m.," the minister said. President Yoon Suk Yeol encourages researchers at the Naro Space Center during a video call after watching the third launch of the Nuri space rocket from the presidential office in Yongsan, Seoul, Thursday. Courtesy of presidential office President Yoon Suk Yeol also congratulated the Nuri's success, calling it "a splendid achievement that declares Korea's entry into the G7 of space powers." "The U.S., France, Japan, Russia, China, and India are the only countries that launched locally-developed satellites into space using their own space vehicles," Yoon said in a statement. "The third launch, which put eight practical satellites into orbit, is a huge step forward from the second launch, which put one performance verification satellite into orbit. It will change the way the world views Korea's space science and technology." Nuri's main payload NEXTSAT-2 enters orbit, makes communication with Earth PHOTOS 3rd launch of Korea's Nuri space rocket Yoon lauds success of space rocket Nuri's launch as 'splendid feat' Fast facts about Nuri space rocket Chronology of major events leading to 3rd Nuri space rocket launch The Nuri is a three-stage space launch vehicle measuring 47.2 meters in length, 3.5 meters in diameter and weighing 200 tons. It was supposed to have been launched, Wednesday, but was delayed due to a glitch. The Ministry of Science and ICT and KARI said the delay was caused by a network error that occurred between the launch control computer and the launch pad facility control computer while controlling a low-temperature helium supply valve. On Thursday morning, Vice Minister of Science and ICT Oh Tae-seog said, "Engineers completed the program fix by 5 a.m. and confirmed that the hardware was fine," adding that they would attempt to launch the Nuri again at 6:24 p.m. The Nuri attempted its first launch in October, 2021, but ended in partial success because the rocket failed to put a dummy satellite into orbit despite succeeding in reaching a target altitude of 700 kilometers above the Earth. The Nuri space rocket blasts off from the Naro Space Center in Goheung, South Jeolla Province, Thursday. Yonhap In its second launch in June, 2022, the Nuri succeeded in deploying a dummy and performance verification satellites at a target altitude of 700 kilometers above the Earth. With the successful launch, Korea became the seventh country in the world to launch a space rocket using domestically developed technology following Russia, the U.S., France, China, Japan and India and place into orbit a satellite weighing over 1 ton. The main difference between the last two launches and the latest launch is that the Nuri placed eight satellites into Earth orbit, which will be used for actual scientific missions. The satellites will carry out missions, such as ground observation, space weather observation, space radiation measurements and space environment verification of domestic space technology. The main satellite, NEXTSAT-2, developed by the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), will conduct observations for two years using a synthetic aperture radar (SAR). It also carried four microsatellites codenamed SNIPE, developed by the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute, and three cube satellites developed by private companies. The success of the third launch is significant in the roadmap of Korea's space development, because the Nuri proved that the country's technology is capable of putting satellites in space, according to, Han Jae-hung, a professor at the Department of Aerospace Engineering at KAIST. "The success of this launch is significant because it is the first time that satellites with an actual mission have been put into orbit via a launch vehicle made with Korean technology," the professor told The Korea Times. "For the Nuri launch vehicle, it is also important to demonstrate that the launch vehicle is capable of putting multiple satellites into orbit through a single launch." Along with the Danuri lunar orbiter, which has been orbiting the moon since December, 2022, the Nuri is playing an important role in the country's plan to develop its space industry. In 2022, Yoon proposed Korea's ambitious goal of landing on the moon by 2032 and Mars by 2045 based on the continuing development of the Nuri. The science ministry and KARI said the Nuri's next launch will be led by Hanwha Aerospace, a private company chosen as a partner in 2022 to supervise every process of the rocket's development from manufacturing and test verification to the actual launch. "The government will launch the Nuri three more times by 2027, while promoting the development of a next-generation launch vehicle that has better performance than the Nuri to secure global competitiveness," the science minister said. For the third launch, Hanwha Aerospace served in managing the production and cooperated in preparing for the launch with KARI. The ministry said the Nuri needs to be launched repeatedly, not only to improve its reliability, but also to meet the demand for satellites being developed by local research institutions and private companies. The ministry also expects Hanwha's participation in the Nuri launch to improve the country's space industry ecosystem. A Samsung Electronics employee works at a memory chip production line at the company's plant in Xi'an, China, in this May 9, 2014, file photo. Courtesy of Samsung Electronics Experts say Korea's top export item should not fall victim to trade dispute By Baek Byung-yeul The United States should give Korea's chip giants Samsung Electronics and SK hynix the utmost respect for their commercial activities in the Chinese market at a time when calls are growing among U.S. politicians for Korean firms not to be allowed to fill the vacuum left in China by a ban on U.S. chipmaker Micron Technology, according to experts, Friday. On May 23, Rep. Mike Gallagher said in an interview with a media outlet that Korean chip companies should not be allowed to fill the U.S. chipmaker's absence in the Chinese market. His comments came after the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) announced on May 21 that Micron's products sold in China failed its cybersecurity review and decided to ban operators of critical infrastructure from buying the products of the U.S. chipmaker. The U.S. announced restrictions on semiconductor equipment imported into China in October 2022 in order to limit China's chip technology. Though Samsung and SK hynix received a one-year reprieve from the regulations, Rep. Gallagher argued that Samsung and SK hynix should not receive the reprieve as Micron was penalized in China. Regarding the remark of the U.S. congressman, experts said that pressuring Korean companies further to limit their commercial activities in the Chinese market would be a hindrance to private enterprises, as they are already fully on board with U.S. restrictions on Chinese chip technology. They added that the move could lead to a negative chain reaction on all chip companies, including the U.S. chip giants if viewed in a wider context, because the industry is growing alongside the Chinese one, which has the largest chip market in the world. "Mike Gallagher is one of 435 house representatives in the U.S. Congress. The fact that he's very noisy doesn't make him more important than the others," Jim Handy, general director at Silicon Valley-based semiconductor market research company Objective Analysis, told The Korea Times. "No matter what issue is currently being discussed, some representatives will take strong stands for it, and others will take strong stands against it. It's something that politicians do to make their constituents aware that they are working hard to fulfill the voters' ideals. I suspect that the same thing is true in Korean politics." Stating that "Samsung and SK hynix are in a very difficult position" amid the escalating chip technology war between the U.S. and China, the analyst said that the Korean companies mentioned that because of their large presence in China, they are currently unable to take all of their business strategies in the direction the U.S. wants them to go. "They have both worked hard to win the favor of China's government by building huge and important facilities in Wuxi (SK hynix) and Xi'an (Samsung)," he said. "If they suddenly follow every wish that comes from any U.S. politician then China will find a way to make these companies wish they hadn't done that." SK hynix's chip plant in Wuxi, China / Courtesy of SK hynix A fraud report was taken from a business in the 4900 block of La Collina Way after the businesss bank card had been fraudulently used at an Amtrack in Washington, DC.Officers responded to a crash with injuries in the 10300 block of Lee Highway after a motorcycle struck a deer. The rider was transported to a local hospital.An alarm was activated at the Collegedale Medical Plaza, in the 4900 block of Swinyar Drive. It was accidental.Officers stood by and kept the peace while an individual gathered some personal belongings from an apartment in the Village at Apison Pike apartments.A minor parking lot crash was reported at the Ooltewah Nursery.An individual came to the police station to describe multiple life events that had not been favorable to them.An officer was able to listen and provide encouragement.A Collegedale fugitive turned themself in and was booked on a warrant for theft. They were released on bond.A concerned motorist contacted dispatch about a broken down scooter on Little Debbie Pkwy. The operator of the scooter was described as being around 16 to 18 years old. Officers searched the area but the subject and their scooter were not found.Officers responded to a deer that had been hit by a car and left in the 3700 block of Prospect Church Road. The injured animal was put down.Walmart reported a theft that had occurred during the previous month. The two suspects involved were identified and charges are pending.Night shift officers conducting routine business checks found a truck parked at Automotive Solutions, in the 10400 block of Lee Highway, with its lights flashing and doors locked. The property was checked and nothing else was found.A traffic stop in the 10600 block of Lee Highway resulted in the driver being charged with driving on a revoked license.A suspicious truck was found at Hoven Automotive, located in the 10300 block of Lee Highway. After further investigation it was found to be railroad workers that needed to work on a train that had stopped on the tracks nearby.A traffic stop in the 5900 block of Main Street for expired tags led to the driver being charged with driving on a suspended license. A new Chattanooga Federal Courthouse will provide seven courtrooms, nine judge chambers and offices for court-related agencies along with 39 inside, secured parking spaces, the General Services Administration said. The facility will also provide space for the District Clerk, U.S. Probation Office, Bankruptcy Clerk, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Attorneys Office, Federal Public Defender and GSA itself. The project will once again unite Bankruptcy Court with other federal judges in the same building. Bankruptcy Court currently operates out of the ornate 1893 Custom House on E. 11th Street. - the site of Chattanooga's first Federal Courthouse presided over by Judge David Key. The GSA said, "The project will meet the 10-year space needs of the courts and court-related agencies and the site will accommodate expansion to meet the anticipated 30-year needs of the courts." A public scoping meeting about the $218 million project will be June 14 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Mac Avenue Event Space, 1304 McCallie Ave., Suite A. During this meeting, the public will have an opportunity to hear about the project and learn how they can provide input on the sites under consideration and potential environmental impacts of the proposed new Federal Courthouse under NEPA. The meeting will be open house style, with participant sign-in beginning at 5:30 p.m. A brief presentation is scheduled for 6-6:30 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to submit verbal or written comments. To request American Sign Language interpretation or a foreign language interpreter for this event, please email ashish.desai@gsa.gov no later than June 5. Members of the public are also encouraged to provide written comments on any issues in addition to, or in lieu of, providing comments at the public meeting. All comments must be submitted by July 1. Written comments may be submitted using one of the following methods: In-Person: Submit written comments at the public scoping meeting via comment forms that will be provided at the meeting. Email: Send an email to ashish.desai@gsa.gov and reference Chattanooga Courthouse EA in the subject line. Mail: Send direct written comments to the following address: General Services Administration Attention: Mr. Ashish Desai GSA Region 4 Facilities Management Division Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Building, 77 Forsyth Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 GSA is preparing an Environmental Assessment for the acquisition of a site and construction of a new Federal Courthouse that will evaluate a range of alternatives for this Courthouse including: Governor Bill Lee announced a statewide Build with Us Tour to celebrate the Transportation Modernization Act and highlight key infrastructure priorities across rural and urban Tennessee. Governor Lees travel will include stops in all three Grand Divisions throughout June and July, beginning in Fentress County on Thursday. As Tennessee continues to experience record growth, the Transportation Modernization Act will ensure our roads keep up with the pace, said Governor Lee. This summer, I look forward to seeing how our new transportation strategy will prepare rural and urban Tennessee for continued economic growth and opportunity, without new taxes or debt, and I thank the legislature for its partnership to ensure our states success. Governor Lee introduced the Transportation Modernization Act this year and signed it into law on April 17, following successful bipartisan passage in the Tennessee General Assembly. The plan creates a new transportation strategy and will invest an additional $3.3 billion to accommodate Tennessees record growth, address traffic congestion and meet transportation needs across rural and urban communities, it was stated. He said, "The strategy will give the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) the resources needed to solve the states current and future mobility challenges, including seeking the use of public-private partnerships to preserve state funds for rural infrastructure priorities, exploring Choice Lanes to decrease congestion and increase economic impact statewide, and expanding the alternative delivery model to save taxpayer dollars and deliver road projects more efficiently." Tennessee is at a critical juncture when it comes to mobility, and the Transportation Modernization Act will meet the infrastructure needs of our growing state, without incurring new debt or raising taxes, said TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. I commend the Governor and the General Assembly for their work to prepare our states rural and urban communities for continued prosperity. Edward Foskey (Al Lewis), left, swaps insults with Carlton Thomas (Willie Clark) as the two banter about whether or not to resurrect their famous Lewis and Clark comedy team photo by The Ringgold Playhouse The Sunshine Boys is directed by local funny man Levi Witt photo by The Ringgold Playhouse Performances of TRPs production of Neil Simons The Sunshine Boys will take place June 1-3 at 7:30 p.m. and June 3-4 at 2:30 p.m. at the Ringgold Depot, 155 Depot St. in downtown Ringgold photo by The Ringgold Playhouse Previous Next The Ringgold Playhouse will open its production of Neil Simons comedy The Sunshine Boys for a five-performance, one-weekend run beginning Thursday night at the historic Ringgold Depot. Now in its 10th season, TRP is excited to bring this classic comedy about an over-the-hill comedy team getting back together after years of estrangement to the Depot stage. Its a great show, said TRP Executive Director Adam Cook. Audiences love Neil Simon comedies, so were happy to offer this production as our third show of our 2023 Season. The show is directed by TRP veteran and Dalton native Levi Witt, who has shifted his comedic talent from being on stage to the directors chair. Mr. Witt won TRPs Best Actor Award last season for his side-splitting performance as Max Bennett in The Play That Goes Wrong. This show is a tribute to vaudeville and to all the great American comedy duos, Mr. Witt said. Its just such a great show. Play synopsis: In the The Sunshine Boys, Al and Willie, known professionally as Lewis and Clark, were top-billed vaudevillians for over 40 years. Now, it has been over 12 years since theyve even spoken. When a television network requests them for a History of Comedy retrospective show, a grudging reunion brings the two back together to remaster their most celebrated sketch, along with a flood of memories, miseries, and laughs. Can these two comedy legends possibly work out their issues in time for their return to the public eye? The production features Carlton Thomas (Willie) and Edward Foskey (Al) as the longtime tandem who tries to put their petty differences aside in order to give the world a final performance of their most beloved sketch. In addition to Mr. Thomas and Mr. Foskey, the cast also includes Jonathan Harrell (Ben Silverman), Ramses McKinstry (Eddie), Chuck Belcher (Patient), Laurie Shaw (TV Nurse) and Renee Lierow (Registered Nurse). In off stage roles, the show features voice over work from local actor and DJ Greg Rambin, as well as Mr. Witt himself. This cast has been a pleasure to work with, and I couldnt be more excited to get this group in front of an audience, Mr. Witt said. Get your tickets, folks. You wont regret it. Tickets for the production are $10 general admission and $8 for seniors and students. Tickets are available at the door or online at Eventbrite.com. Performances are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with matinee performances Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. All performances will be held at the historic Ringgold Depot at 155 Depot St. During the COVID pandemic, we watched online learning fail to deliver the results hoped for by education policymakers. We have not even understood what worked and what failed. The digital age of virtual education can complement schools but will never be a replacement for traditional brick-and-mortar schools. For most students, there is no way to completely replace in-person teaching, social interaction, and emotional care and support. In hindsight, it is the best result. Karen Sobel Lojeski and Richard Reilly coined the term Virtual Distance to describe the psychological distance created between people by an over-reliance on electronic communications. They point out such items as loss of project success, innovation, satisfaction, trust, goal clarity, and leader effectiveness. We are creating psychological gulfs when we lose human interaction. Artificial intelligence is using all the data it has collected and is growing at a phenomenal pace. A recent Goldman Sachs report asks whether we are at the brink of a rapid acceleration in task automation that will significantly save on labor costs, raise labor productivity, and increase the pace of economic growth. The report found two-thirds of jobs are at risk due to AI automation, while AI could have the capability of directly accomplishing up to one-fourth of current work. That is three hundred million jobs threatened in the U.S. and Europe. Do not think that public education is immune from automation. Our workforce can look vastly different across many sectors in the future because of AI. IBM, the technology giant, will fill thousands of jobs with artificial intelligence rather than humans. CEO Arvind Krishna told Bloomberg, that around 30 percent of about 26,000 non-customer-facing positions, like human resources jobs could be replaced. In Tennessee, the Clarksville-Montgomery School System filed a lawsuit against Meta, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Google, WhatsApp, and YouTube regarding an alleged lack of controls surrounding student access and appropriate content. They allege "damages and growing mental health crisis among students." One area they discuss is the algorithms that target kids. The lawsuit may take years in various courts. Critics and insiders have raised the alarm over everything from biased algorithms to the possibility of massive job losses as AI-powered automation seeps into daily life. United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy reports that social media use by young people is nearly universal, with up to 95 percent of young people ages 13-17 reporting using a social media platform and more than a third saying they use social media almost constantly. OpenAI chief Sam Altman and Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis were among the tech leaders warning AI could be as dangerous as pandemics and nuclear weapons. Some of the dangers include the risk of exacerbating existing biases and inequalities, promoting misinformation, disrupting politics, and upending the economy and job market. In education, there are additional problems miscommunication, lack of clearly defined roles, and even personal and cultural conflicts which can develop. There is an inability of AI to reliably sort facts from fiction in the language. While they were studying the business application, there is limited research in an education setting and it will need further analysis before policies are established and become entrenched in education policy. The three significant issues for states to address virtual education are academic performance, lack of equity and access, and privacy concerns. In AI, Parents need much greater control over what information websites can collect from their kids. We are also concerned about algorithms that target children (and adults), as well as escalating mental health issues. The lawsuit filed by the Clarksville-Montgomery School System against social media companies may create unintended consequences. It will also ignite a needed discussion about guidelines and necessary regulations for digital education, data collection, social media, and AI for addressing new and evolving technology. Elon Musk warned at MITs Aero Astro Centennial Symposium: Im increasingly inclined to think that there should be some regulatory oversight, maybe at the national and international level, just to make sure that we dont do something very foolish. I mean with artificial intelligence were summoning the demon. This discussion needs to be a higher priority for policymakers and stakeholders alike. The demons are here. JC Bowman Executive Director of Professional Educators of Tennessee It was with utter disbelief that I read that the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel is being renamed. For over 60 years (before settling here to raise our family 40 years ago), my family always made Chattanooga our stop from Indiana to Florida. We always made our visit complete with a visit to the Choo Choo. The terminal has been a part of Chattanoogas history since the 1850s. Now some person with money wants to come in and change the name and its relationship with Chattanooga that exemplifies this city at its best. This hotel, its history and name draw thousands of people to Chattanooga every year. Honestly, it truly seems in this upside down world this is just one more step toward trying to erase history. And before anyone starts throwing stones, my great-great-grandfather left his family in Indiana to fight for the freedom he believed every man, woman and child deserved and died at the foot of Lookout Mountain. So I want to shout loudly, Leave the Choo Choo alone, especially its name and history!" Its part of who we all are-those who came before, are here now and those to come. Sharon Anderson * * * I understand Ms. Andersons concern regarding the name change of the Chattanooga Choo Choo to a name with the word Chalet in it. While Chattanooga is known to offer an abundance of outdoor and indoor activities, I dont believe we are at the top of any list for skiing. Further, our gentle mountains, while exquisite and welcoming, dont host any ski runs (except for the maximum five hours on the mountain golf courses, when it rarely snows). I have a particular fondness for the Choo Choo as that is where my beautiful older sister departed for a Homecoming Weekend at the University of Virginia. I cried and cried when the train left the station bound for Charlottesville. And, of course, one of the Porters on board sang The Chattanooga Choo Choo. Further, while at City High School a dear friend of mine and I established the Hysterical Historic Society. He and I spent a lot of time blackballing prospective members (who didnt know they were being considered), none of which voiced the least interest in joining. He had a cute little red Sprite (I think, or maybe an MG) and we would drive along Missionary Ridge trying to read the historical markers without getting killed. The ultimate event of the Society was watching the last train leave the station. Once again my sister (and another fine scholar who will remain anonymous so as not to embarrass him these many years later) were all delighted when the conductor offered us free rides to Cleveland, Tn. We left at 10 p.m. and arrived in Cleveland at a little after 11 p.m. Sadly, we never addressed how to get home. My newly married (and still beautiful sister) called her groom and asked him to come get us. Lets say he was miffed and said if we got ourselves up there we could get ourselves back. Our rather downtrodden group walked down a street and were picked up by the Cleveland Police. We explained our situation and the polite officers seem to agree with my brother-in-law. They were kind enough to take us to a diner and asked the patrons if anyone was going to Chattanooga. Luckily two gentlemen were on their way to Florida and would give us a lift back to the Chattanooga Train Station where our cars were. I know there are other train aficionadoes who have their own experiences. Lets hope the new owners revisit their proposed name change and keep the grand Chattanooga Choo Choo in place. Leah Geraghty Although it is a little early for the hot days of August for our canine creatures, the massive immigration of pet toting pals from the North, West, etc. justifies a discussion on the benefits of having a pure pedigree or mutt for a companion in the social society of Nooga. (Cats will be discussed later maybe). In the older pollution-filled days of the Dynamo of Dixie, the smoothest new acquaintance line for a self-appointed stud was to saunter up to the bar and ask an unescorted lady (okay?) if they could buy them a beer, shot of moonshine or chaser for the substance in their hip flask. Times have changed slightly in the New Atlanta and walking the dog down one of the vast traffic boulevards in Gig City and letting the toy poodle and Aleutian Bloodhound nuzzle noses is a great icebreaker for the pet owners. The sharing of a poop scooper and an extra pair of plastic gloves is a great move down the avenue of amore to a potential puppy love relationship. A recent article in one of those up East authoritative medical journals recommends that the willingness to assume the loving role of owner of a pup and commit to the 10-15- year additional financial obligations to your student loan balance of 10-20 years ago may turn them into a second Romeo rather than a social wallflower. With the low costs of dog food, veterinarian bills, boarding (only if you leave Sidney or Missy behind on your next trip to Monte Carlo), cruel surgical operations for both male, female, etc. to eliminate their opportunity to have offspring, and estimate of the cost of lifetime care may vary significantly from $1,000 to $100,000 over their lifetime you will have unlimited moments of joy from your pet pal. But the following medical literature findings scientifically prove beneficial to the mental and physical well-being to Mom/Dad, etc.: 1. HEALTHIER HEART A 2019 study determined that dog owners were 31 percent less likely to die from a heart attack or stroke than non-owners. Lifetime benefits of ownership continued for 12 years to establish a 33 percent lower death rate from a heart attack and 27 percent lower death rate from a stroke. 2. STRESS RELIEF A second separate study in 2022 clearly shows petting a dog stimulates the human brains prefrontal cortex which helps regulate emotions. It is also correct that dogs even play the role of therapists. The conclusion is also reported that dogs are always so happy to see you. (if they dont bite your hand off); 3. SOCIAL COMPANIONS For us old folks, dogs can eliminate the loneliness and social isolation that are among the biggest health threats for the elderly generation; and 4. WEIGHT LOSS For the portly part of the population, further research reveals that on average, people with pedigree/mutt dogs walk about 20 minutes more per day than the fat, sad, alcohol and drug abusers who have never enjoyed the eternal love of Catfish (LG), Millie (C.C. & L.C.) Buddy (M.S.) etc. (Perhaps there could be additional legislation passed in the special session called by our Governor scheduled for August 21, 2023 in the Tennessee General on public safety and constitutional rights that could be expanded to include greater pet care in the tradition of the ASPCA (Only the cruel and non-caring dont know what those letters stand for in critter language). It seems feasible that each Circuit/Chancery Court judge deciding divorce cases should include a mandatory clause in any decree requiring that in the best interest of male/female, etc. parties that a pooch be placed in joint custody, with liberal visitation rights, and equal sharing of the costs of raising the cherished companion up to a $100,000 minimum. Of course, the five members of the highest judicial tribunal in the state could accomplish the same by Rule of Court) P.S. After the slogan Gig City finally wears thin, perhaps the Chattanooga City fathers/mothers, etc. could adopt a new tourist/immigrant attracting epithet of The Canine City! (Sorry kittens) * * * You can reach Jerry Summers at jsummers@summersfirm.com Prince Harry spoke out about the monarchys future in a 2017 interview, one year after meeting his future wife, Meghan Markle. At the time, Harry believed the royal family needed to move forward to remain a viable part of the United Kingdoms future. He admitted, We [the royal family] dont want to be just a bunch of celebrities but instead, use our role for good. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are photographed in March 2020, the same month they left their roles as senior royals | Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images Prince Harry said the royals need to be more than famous faces In a 2017 interview with The Daily Mail, Prince Harry discussed both his royal role and the monarchys future. Just one year into his relationship with Meghan Markle, the Duke of Sussex admitted his family needed to use their status in a positive manner and not be just a unit recognized for their association with the crown. Harry shared his views about living in a royal fishbowl, admitting nonetheless, he was determined to have a relatively normal life. Harry also added if he was lucky enough to have children in the future, he hoped they could experience normalcy as well. The Duke of Sussex held onto hope the clan was more relevant to the United Kingdom than just images plastered in the tabloid newspapers. He said, We dont want to be just a bunch of celebrities but instead use our roles for good. There was a time I felt I wanted out, he continued of his role in the institution. Harry continued, But then I decided to stay in [The Firm] and work out a role for myself. This role included a passion for charitable endeavors inspired by his late mother, Princess Diana. Prince Harry once claimed the monarchy cant go on the way Queen Elizabeth ran it In 2017, Harry hoped the monarchy would continue to evolve with the changing times. As much as he respected and loved his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, Prince Harry believed the institution could not continue to be viable if it continued in the same manner as she ran it. We want to make sure the monarchy lasts and are passionate about what it stands for, Harry said. We feel that the British public and the whole world need institutions like this. But it cant go on as it has done under the queen. In the same interview, Harry also questioned the roles of kings and queens in modern society. The Duke of Sussex admitted, Is there any one of the royal family who wants to be King or Queen? I dont think so. But we will carry out our duties at the right time. Prince Harrys 2017 statements appeared to be prophetic in 2023 Many changes have occurred in Prince Harrys life since discussing his future and that of the royal family six years prior. In March 2020, Harry and his wife, former actor Meghan Markle stepped back from their roles as senior royals. Harry also welcomed two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, who lived the everyday life he wished for them six years prior. The kids live a quiet life out of the media fishbowl in Montecito, CA. However, contradicting his past statements, Harry and Meghan use their royal celebrity to keep themselves in the public eye. The couple used their connections to the monarchy to spearhead a tell-all Netflix series, Harry & Meghan, and publish a scathing autobiography, Spare, within six months. But, one element of Harrys life remains constant, his passion for charity work. He remains very involved with the charity he formed, The Invictus Games, an international sporting competition for injured and sick veterans and service people. He and Meghan formed the Archwell Foundation to unleash the power of compassion to drive systemic cultural change. But, the couple has come under scrutiny after releasing a two-year report which indicates the organization raised $13M and distributed $3M in grants across various causes, including vaccine equity, relief centers, and refugee resettlement. Currently, $10M remains unaccounted for. Naver's recently redesigned search engine shows multimedia search results including photos and video clips. Naver said these changes are in anticipation of the upcoming application of AI technology to its search engine. Courtesy of Naver By Baek Byung-yeul Naver, the country's largest internet company, is losing its share in the search engine market as users flock to more convenient artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot services such as OpenAI's ChatGPT, Microsoft's Bing and Google's Bard, all of which are based on generative AI technology, according to industry officials, Tuesday. The conversational AI chatbot services, which guide users as if they were talking to a human, are threatening Naver's dominant position in the domestic search engine market, creating a crack in the company's 20-year dominance, they said. They also pointed out that as more users are searching not only through these AI-based search platforms but also through YouTube and other platforms that provide personalized services, Naver needs to offer search services that can read individual tastes. According to the data from market tracker Internet Trend, Naver's share in the domestic search engine market was at 51.49 percent as of May 28. This marks a drop of 13.32 percentage points since Dec. 31, 2022, when it was at 64.81 percent. In second place behind Naver is Google. Amazingly, on Dec. 31, Google's share was at only 26.8 percent, but the figure rose to 40.38 percent on May 28, increasing by 13.58 percentage points. The gap between Naver and Google was 38.01 percent on Dec. 31, but as of May 28, it was only 11.11 percent. During the same period, third-place Daum's share increased from 3.49 percent to 4.45 percent, and fourth-place Microsoft Bing increased from 1.49 percent to 1.87 percent. Seen is the front page of OpenAI's generative AI service ChatGPT. Captured from ChatGTP Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, abruptly left the United Kingdom for six weeks toward the end of 2019. The two spent time in Canada, and upon returning, made an announcement shortly after that theyd be stepping back from their royal duties. They subsequently landed in the United States, and they have lived in California ever since. Now, though, rumors are swirling that Harrys family expects that he will someday return to the United Kingdomm, assumingly with Meghan and the couples two kids, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. And King Charles would reportedly welcome them home. Prince Harry and King Charles in 2015 | Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle left the royal family three years ago When Harry and Meghan stepped back from their royal roles back in 2020, they were not on great terms with the royal family and that remains the case today. Meghan was often attacked in the press, and the royal family hardly ever publicly came to her aid. Plus, there were rumors of tensions rising between William and Harry. Harry and Meghan, along with their son, Prince Archie, headed to Canada for six weeks toward the end of 2019 as a way to escape the stresses of royal life for a moment. However, upon their return, the two announced that they were stepping down from their roles as senior royals and subsequently made their last official royal appearances in March 2020. The two relocated to California, where they have been ever since. Theyve since welcomed a daughter, Princess Lilibet, and they have returned to the United Kingdom a handful of times. Harry and Meghan attended Queen Elizabeths Platinum Jubilee and funeral in 2022, and Harry attended King Charles coronation in 2023. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at Christmas Day service with the royal family in 2017 | Chris Jackson/Getty Images King Charles reportedly expects Harry and Meghan to return to the United Kingdom Harry and Meghan have seemed to settle well into their new California lifestyle, but the royal family supposedly thinks Harry will eventually come back to the United Kingdom and that means Meghan will likely join him, should that ever happen. Royal expert Daisy Cousens said the royals would welcome Harry home with ease. I think they absolutely would, and I think probably most of them expect him to come back at some point, Cousens said of Harrys family welcoming him back, per Express. I have been calling Harry the prodigal prince for years; I think we will certainly see a bit of an iteration of that table. Cousens continued by saying that Charles would easily welcome Harry back to the royal family. I think Charles would take him back with open arms, she said, though she didnt think Williams welcome would be quite as warm. Prince William might need a little bit of convincing, but ultimately, they are brothers, they have bonded through trauma and blood, so I dont think there is any question that Prince Harry would be welcomed back. As for whether Harry and Meghan ever take that jump remains unclear. They seem to spend as little time in the U.K. as possible, so its interesting that any royal family members would think Harrys return is imminent. A single cycle of intense Terahertz laser light (red) rapidly twists the atomic lattice of a hybrid organic-inorganic solar cell material. The resulting ultrafast shaking of the lead halide lattice is traced by stroboscopic snapshots using visible laser pulses (green). The observed lattice response provides novel insights into microscopic mechanisms for protecting electric charges and paves the way for ultrafast control of the materials optoelectronic properties. To overcome global energy challenges and fight the looming environmental crisis, researchers around the world investigate new materials for converting sunlight into electricity. Some of the most promising candidates for high-efficiency low-cost solar cell applications are based on lead halide perovskite (LHP) semiconductors. Despite record-breaking solar cell prototypes, the microscopic origin of the surprisingly excellent optoelectronic performance of this material class is still not completely understood. Now, an international team of physicists and chemists from Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society, Ecole Polytechnique in Paris, Columbia University in New York, and the Free University in Berlin demonstrated laser-driven control of fundamental motions of the LHP atomic lattice. By applying a sudden electric field spike faster than a trillionth of a second (picosecond) in the form of a single light cycle of far-infrared Terahertz radiation, the investigators unveiled the ultrafast lattice response, which might contribute to a dynamic protection mechanism for electric charges. This precise control over the atomic twist motions will allow to create novel non-equilibrium material properties, potentially providing hints for designing the solar cell material of the future. The investigated hybrid LHP solar cell materials consist of an inorganic crystal lattice, which acts as periodic cages for hosting organic molecules. The interplay of free electronic charges with this hybrid lattice and its impurities determines how much electricity can be extracted from the sun lights energy. Understanding this complicated interaction might be the key for a microscopic understanding of the outstanding optoelectronic performance of LHPs. Researchers from Fritz Haber Institute in Berlin and their international colleagues have now been able to isolate the lattice response to an electric field on timescales faster than 100 femtoseconds, that is one tenth of a trillionth of a second. The electric field has been applied by an intense laser pulse containing only a single cycle of far-infrared, so-called Terahertz (THz), light. This THz field is so strong and so fast that it may mimic the local electric field of an excited charge carrier immediately after the absorption of a quantum of sunlight, explains Maximilian Frenzel, one of the main authors performing the experiments. By this approach, the investigators observe a concerted motion of the crystal lattice, mainly consisting of back and forth tilting of the octahedral building blocks of the inorganic cage. These nonlinearly excited vibrations can lead to - so far neglected - higher order screening effects, contributing to an often discussed charge carrier protection mechanism. Moreover, the related tilting angle plays a dominating role in determining the fundamental material properties, such as the crystallographic phase or electronic bandgap, clarifies Dr. Sebastian Maehrlein, leader of the international research project. Thus, instead of static chemical tuning of material properties, ultrafast dynamic material design comes into reach: As we can now modulate these twist angles by a single THz light cycle, summarizes Dr. Maehrlein, in future we might be able to control material properties on demand or even discover novel exotic states of this emerging material class. By assessing such dynamic states of matter, the researchers hope to contribute some hints for designing the energy materials of the future. Before their approval, pharmaceuticals not only have to be tested for their effectiveness and safety, but also for their stability, since they are usually stored in pharmacies and private households for years and are not allowed to change. To test their stability, a process is needed that decomposes the drug "in fast motion". Such a method was recently developed by a team of scientists from the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis in Rostock (LIKAT), the RWTH Aachen University and the Julius Maximilian University of Wurzburg, accompanied by the company RD&C (Vienna, Austria). The research results have now been published in the journal ACS Central Science. Virtually all drugs are multicomponent or multiphase systems that are embedded in a matrix, i.e. contain excipients and carriers, for example. These additives can interact with the active ingredient over time, for example when the drugs are stored for a longer period of time and impair the effect of the drug. The pharmaceutical industry must disclose all stability data before a new drug is approved, so there is considerable interest in developing reliable predictive tools to assess the safety of drugs. Currently, however, such predictive tools for solid-state properties, particularly with respect to solid-state stability and degradation, are limited. In addition, the rate and decomposition products of solid-state degradation processes are unique for each compound, making the development of stability models very time-consuming and costly. Prediction methods in aqueous environments exist, but they lead to high error rates. Since irrelevant degradation products are often formed under these conditions, these prediction methods imply a high financial and health development risk for the manufacturer of new drugs and for the customer. Based on proof-of-concept studies successfully performed by RD&C and the team, a unique and innovative experimental method for predicting stability profiles and degradation pathways in solid compounds, mixtures and matrices has now been developed. In the literature, the approach is referred to as mechanochemistry. In this approach, the isolated drug or marketed pharmaceutical product is treated in a vibrating mill in the presence of a decomposition-inducing reagent. Within less than 15 minutes, degradation processes can be observed. Everaldo Krake (LIKAT Rostock), first author of the study and a newly graduated young scientist, explains: "We were able to show this on a series of structurally similar so-called thienopyridines, which are the drugs in antiplatelet tablets. Crucial to the success was the collaboration with the group led by Carsten Bolm (RWTH Aachen University), a world-leading expert in the field of mechanochemistry, and the team of Ulrike Holzgrabe (University of Wurzburg), a renowned pharmaceutical chemist" This showed that the degradation profiles are identical for both the pure drug and the finished pharmaceutical product. This means that reproducible and relevant statements can be made for this class of drugs in short reaction times using the active ingredient alone. This would be of great importance for accelerated drug approval. According to the authors, this new approach represents a paradigm shift in the application of mechanochemical processes in organic chemistry. "In general, mechanochemical studies of the transformation of small organic molecules, particularly drugs, are carried out with the aim of producing specific structural motifs. The new work now published highlights the potential of this approach to also target specific structural motifs for degradation," says Carsten Bolm. This could be important not only for drug testing, but also for organic synthesis in general. "In the future, it will be interesting to apply this mechanochemical approach to other drug families and to evaluate the role of other stimuli such as light or temperature for the forced degradation process," Ulrike Holzgrabe concludes. Gyeongsang province is located on the southeastern corner of the Korean peninsula, near the busy port city of Busan. By area, the province is slighter smaller than Connecticut, at just over 4,000 square miles. Both have a similar population of roughly 3.5 million people. Both put a strong emphasis on education. And both worlds came together last week for a special visit. A team of education officials from the province, led by Deputy Superintendent Seong Soo Park, came to Cheshire on May 23 to discuss how, despite being some 7,000 miles apart, the two educational systems could find common ground for productive future collaborations. The main purpose of the visit, which was a joint effort of the Gyeongsangnam-do Office of Education, Cheshire Public Schools, and ACES International, was to develop the framework for a teacher exchange. Such a program would likely see two teachers from each country spending time abroad learning classroom techniques from a mentor, as well as experiencing a different culture. While the agreements technical details have not yet been finalized, a memorandum of understanding was signed by Cheshire Superintendent Dr. Jeffrey Solan and Deputy Superintendent Park. The agreement is meant to strengthen their bonds of friendship and cooperation, and commit to the promotion of various educational exchanges for the benefit of both parties. Park previously lived in Trumbull as part of an educational exchange program with that district, so he has some familiarity with Connecticut schools. He remarked, through a translator, that he appreciated the long history of public education in the state. Park added that he felt there were many areas of possible cooperation between the respective districts. It has been a wonderful experience to visit impressive schools, including Dodd Middle School, Humiston High School and Norton Elementary, Park said. He also commented on how truck he was by the presence of computers in every classroom, being used by every student a significant difference from 12 years ago when he was last in Connecticut. Parks duties include supervision of over 1,000 schools, over 30,000 teachers, and more than 400,000 students, from infants to high school-aged. According to an informational packet prepared by the District, Gyeongnam received 6.3 trillion won, or just under $4.8 billion about 88% of its funding from the central government in 2023. Connecticut, by contrast, receives about $12 billion yearly from various sources. One notable difference between the educational systems, Park said, is the heightened emphasis in South Korean schools on assessments and evaluations. This approach seems to have worked well for South Korea by some measures. According to the National Center on Education and the Economy (NCEE), a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit, South Korea is one of the worlds Top Performers in education. One important aspect of South Koreas success, per the NCEE report, is the status of the nations teachers. The passage of the Special Act on the Improvement of Teachers Status in 1991 enhanced the status of the teaching profession by guaranteeing job protections, competitive salaries, and authority and input into educational matters. Today, teachers in Korea enjoy high social status, job stability, and high pay. Park noted however that due to the strong emphasis on testing it could be very difficult for educators to develop a students personality and express their professional skills. He said achieving more liberty for teachers was one goal for his district as it looks toward the challenges of the future. Commenting on Cheshires social-emotional learning focus, Park added that it was important to have a balance between the social pressures associated with achieving test results and academic performance and the development of creativity and innovative thinking. To that end, Gyeongnam Education has begun to emphasize individual learning in its promotional materials. A pamphlet prepared by the Office of Education states that among its goals is fostering independence so that (students) may thrive in any situation, as well as education that makes all places a school and all people teachers. It is language that syncs with Cheshire public schools oft-repeated slogan of creating life-long learners. From Solans perspective, taking mutual lessons from the success of South Korean schools is important as well. Were always looking at areas where we can improve on what were doing. Its a global economy, and we want our students to be able to engage and compete on a global scale, he said. Unsplash/Kenny Eliason The Florida Baptist Convention (FBC), a network of Southern Baptist congregations centered in Jacksonville, has announced a significant loss of over $700,000 as a result of cybercrime. The money was fraudulently taken from donations meant to help the network of churches and their different programs. FBC's executives publicly acknowledged their regret over a big financial catastrophe. They acknowledged that the loss of financial resources had caused great distress for their convention staff and state board of missions. The organization expressed its outrage about the theft, classifying the occurrence as "financial fraud." Jacksonville Church Organization Faces $700,000 Loss in Cyber Theft According to the article in News 4 Jax, the malefactors apparently succeeded in simulating the FBC's corporate communication procedure in a masterfully designed email, deceiving the recipients into thinking it was an actual request for money to support missionary operations. Cybersecurity specialist Ben Finke, a co-founder of OnDefend in Jacksonville, offered light on the likely method of operation of the cyber criminals. Finke asserts that they probably gained access to a company employee's email, gained knowledge of how the company operated, and then disseminated phony billing information. Finke explained that the hackers had the ability to change the account number so that it appeared genuine to the recipient, altering the information. He guessed that these tricks might be able to persuade the receiver to send money. In an effort to retrieve the stolen funds, the FBC has recruited the help of the FBI, local law enforcement, and their banking and insurance providers. However, Finke questioned the likelihood of a successful recovery. Finke offered two possible avenues for redress. The first option was to contact law enforcement in the hopes that they might be able to recover some of the money that had been stolen. He did, however, add a warning that the possibility of happening could have been higher considering the frequency of comparable situations they deal with. He suggested that the alternative would be to seek compensation from insurance companies, but he also noted that such carriers normally avoid making payments for this kind of loss. Also Read:Man Found Guilty With 18 Charges of Theft for Stealing Lead Roof from Several Churches in England About the CyberCrime Law in the US According to the website of CyberCrime Law, the United States Code's Title 18, Section 1030 outlines the offenses of fraud and unauthorized computer access. Such violations include illegally accessing and obtaining government-protected material with the aim of destabilizing the United States or advancing a foreign country. Along with financial records, data from US departments and agencies and protected computer data involving interstate or international contact are also included. It is also illegal to gain unauthorized access to a protected computer with the goal of committing fraud or to a non-public government computer that affects how it is used. It is also illegal to transmit hazardous data to a secured computer without authorization, which can result in damage. Another source, Every CSR Report, adds that passwords or other similar information that facilitates unlawful computer access are illegal, especially if it impacts interstate commerce or includes systems used by the government. Threats of extortion that harm a computer that is protected are likewise illegal. Any of these offenses that are attempted are also punished. However, the clause does not forbid legitimate law enforcement or intelligence agency protective, investigative, or intelligence activity. Related Article:Former Church Secretary in Alabama Gets Jail Time for Stealing Over $90K Pixabay/Peggychoucair As part of the celebration of the completion of their church repairs, the largest Parish Church in Warwickshire is inviting people to explore the stunning views of their church tower. It will be open to guests on Sunday, June 4, from 2 to 4 p.m. Breathtaking Tower Views at County's Largest Parish Church Rugby Observer reported that due to a 59,200 or over $73,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Trinity College Cambridge, the Warwickshire and Coventry Historic Churches Trust, and Coventry Diocese, the church would have an open house event to celebrate the completion of their pinnacle and weathervane repairs. Patricia Barnett, a church spokeswoman, said they could do necessary repairs on the church pinnacles displayed throughout the visit because of the funds. In addition, it reportedly presented them with the possibility of involving people of varying ages in the rich past that St. Edith's Church provides. "We are grateful to all those who supported us financially. We warmly welcome everyone to join our celebration at the end of this heritage project," Barnett added. There will also be a selection of digital items that allow users to examine the church's architecture while staying on the ground level, making them accessible to people of all abilities. Moreover, on the open day event, there will be guided visits, a computer-generated artist's perception of the church as a monastery with monks hundreds of years ago, self-led mobile device tours of the stained-glass windows, have-a-go-at-bellringing sessions, and Medieval monk-style craft activities. Also Read:Local Churches Use ".church" Domains to Match Branding, Engage With Visitors Online, Offline About St Edith's Church in Monks Kirby According to Flickr, one of the most magnificent churches in Warwickshire is St. Edith's, which can be found in Monk's Kirby. Since it was once a monastery, it was constructed on a massive scale; the aisled nave and chancel form one vessel with no structural partition, and the entire structure is built of rich red sandstone, except the subsequent upper portion of the tower, which is made of white sandstone, giving it a characteristic two-toned red and white appearance. As mentioned, the church's interior is vast, gloomy, and cavernous, and it has the feel of a German hall church because all three aisles are almost the same height. Although no capital letters are used in the arcades, they give an arts and crafts vibe. Additionally, the windows are enormous but relatively high up, so they only let in a limited amount of light. There is also a lot of beautiful glass made by Hardman's at the west end and an outstanding Lavers & Barraud to the east. The significant points of interest are the landmarks, which include two tombs from the Tudor period, complete with effigies located in the Fielding chapel in the northeast corner, and the furnishings that are not particularly ancient. As per National Churches Trust, the church bell tower is home to eight beautiful bells, the oldest of which dates back to 1390. As stated, an impressive structure in a serene rural environment and the stained-glass windows have garnered much praise. Accordingly, St. Edith's Church is approximately 110 feet long and 50 feet wide, making it the largest parish church in all of Warwickshire. It is believed that Ethelfleda, daughter of Alfred the Great, established the first church where St. Edith's currently stands in the year 917. The current Priory Church of St Edith's dates back to 1077, when Geoffrey de la Guerche, a Breton knight, reconstructed the house of worship and donated it as a monastery to the Benedictine Abbey of St Nicholas in Anjou, France, naming it in honor of the Virgin Mary and St Denis. In 1266, King Henry III allowed the monks to hold a market every week and a fair on the summer solstice. Related Article:Mayfield Congregational United Church of Christ to Welcome Visitors During World Day of Prayer Pixabay/Antonio Cansino Liturgical protests have arisen at St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica due to the compulsory implementation of the new liturgical norms. Allegedly, these oppositions made it impossible to regularly celebrate mass at the Basilica, which ultimately led to the building's closure. Liturgy Protest at St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica On Nov. 27, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath attempted, but failed, to force his way to the St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica to celebrate mass under the uniform mode authorized by the synod in 1999. UCA News reported that this mode mandates that the priests face the altar while praying the Eucharistic prayer. This action outraged the clergy and laypeople of the archdiocese, as they objected to the standard mass and wished to maintain their customary manner, in which the pastor faces the crowd for the entire service. Because of the activities of the archbishop, street fights occurred, which led to the Basilica being shut down and placed under police watch. On Nov. 25, 2022, a three-member commission appointed by Cardinal Alencherry initiated a discussion with the priests and laity, prompting these individuals to state that the archbishop's actions were "an improper act." According to a report from Crux, since that time, the Basilica has practically been unusable since demonstrations, street brawls, and sporadic acts of vandalism have made it impossible to celebrate the mass there regularly. On Friday, May 26, opponents of the new liturgy regrouped in front of St. Mary's Church, where they leveled accusations against Thazhath for being responsible for the closed church. On the other hand, as a means of responding, the media committee of the Syro-Malabar church published a statement on Saturday, May 27, which referred to the accusation as "false propaganda." As mentioned, a group of individuals, including priests, took control of the Basilica not long. After that, on the 23rd and 24th of December, several priests began continuously celebrating Holy Mass, a grave violation of the church's regulations. As a direct result of this celebration, a number of the faithful went to the sanctuary and pulled the altar to the side to end the protest celebration. Following the intervention from the police, the individuals were escorted out of the Basilica. Sometime had reportedly passed, and officials from a variety of groups as well as some parishioners contacted the police. The closure of the Basilica was carried out once more in the presence of law enforcement. Moreover, Andrews Thazhath, the Apostolic Administrator, learned about it much later. Thus, the claim that the Archbishop Administrator is to blame for the closing of the Basilica is completely groundless. Furthermore, to re-establish the cathedral basilica as a place for the legal celebration of the Holy Mass and to reopen the Basilica itself; the Apostolic Administrator has renewed his request for the collaboration of the parishioners and the vicar of the cathedral. Also Read: Dozen of Churches Vandalized, Set Fire Due to India Violence Following Protest March Parishioners' Petition to Reopen the Basilica Since the authorities closed the archdiocese's St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica on Dec. 24 last year after a violent conflict between competing Catholics over the liturgy issue, Tomy Joseph and Antony Joseph claimed their rights were being violated. In addition, Gaudium Express reported that they also petitioned the court for action to reopen the Cathedral Church on Jan. 31. The petitioners explained to the court that the contentious liturgical debate that has been going on for more than half a century is the root cause of the current precarious circumstance in the Ernakulam-Angamaly archdiocese. Accordingly, the petition was accepted to be heard by the single bench presided over by Justice Shaji Paul Chaly. Notices were given to all of the relevant parties, such as the office bearers of the Archdiocesan Movement for Transparency (AMT), which is a body composed of both laity and priests, as well as the office bearers of the Archdiocesan Protection Committee (APC), which is a forum for priests in the archdiocese. However, the dragging of the church disagreement into a civil court, according to various experts and authorities inside the church, will have significant repercussions for the church, including questions regarding its credibility and authority. Related Article: Archbishop of St. Louis Lays Out Parish Reorganization, Closes Several Churches Pixabay/Gerd Altmann Russian President Vladimir Putin recently released a special order for Andrei Rublyov's Holy Trinity Icon to be moved from its previous location to the Russian Orthodox Church. However, an Archpriest asserted that the icon requires some restoration. Due to this statement, the Russian Orthodox Church's leader decided to remove the Archpriest from his position for allegedly obstructing the order to bring the icon to the church. Andrei Rublyov's Holy Trinity Icon According to a report from Premier Christian News, it is believed that Andrei Rublyov painted Trinity to honor Saint Sergius of Radonezh in Sergiyev Posad, located close to Moscow. Trinity is one of the holiest and most significant pieces of art in the history of Russian iconography. In the first book of the Bible, Genesis, Abraham is said to have been visited by three angels while praying at the Oak of Mamre, and this painting reportedly represents those angels. On the other hand, throughout the years of internal conflict, the icon has been moved multiple times to different locations. As per The Moscow Times, the most revered icon in Russia has been transferred to the jurisdiction of the Russian Orthodox Church due to President Vladimir Putin's special order on May 15. This decision reportedly comes as the immensely influential leader of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, voiced his support for Putin's decision to send soldiers to Ukraine and encouraged Christians to back the military operation. Moreover, according to a statement released by the Moscow Patriarchate, Vladimir Putin announced the decision to turn over the icon "in response to numerous requests from Orthodox believers." Also Read:Christian Theology Lecturer Terminated Following Tweet About Homosexuality Firing Archpriest Due to Obstruction Allegation Following the conclusion that the icon required restoration work, Archpriest Leonid Kalinin, the head of the Moscow Patriarchate's expert council on church art, architecture, and restoration, stated that the discussion between the museum and the parish church was being carried out "in good faith," Inquirer reported. However, in an order issued on Saturday, May 27, Patriarch Kirill ordered Kalinin to be removed from his position "in connection with the obstruction of bringing the icon" to the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow. Based on the letter published on the Russian Orthodox Church website, Kalinin was also prohibited from serving in the priesthood. As mentioned, one of the most passionate institutional backers of Russia's conflict in Ukraine is the Russian Orthodox Church, the conservatism of which Putin has embraced as a component of his vision for Russia's national identity. The previous year, Patriarch Kirill stated that those who fought in Ukraine would have their sins forgiven when they passed away. Accordingly, icons are religious artworks that are highly stylized and frequently gilded. They are considered sacred in Eastern Orthodox Churches. Art Way stated that over the last twenty years, practically every religious tradition had seen a surge in interest in icons, particularly those drawn from the Eastern Orthodox tradition. Between 1408 and 1425, Andrei Rublev created a visual portrayal of the Holy Trinity that is often considered the most famous icon in existence, at least in the Western world. Rublev is a notable figure even though most iconographers in the Orthodox tradition remain anonymous. Additionally, the mysterious quality of Rublev's Icon of the Trinity can be traced back to its allusive quality. Its graceful attributes of lightness, clarity, harmony, and elegance enchant people while at the same time enticing them to investigate the secret it reveals. When an individual starts paying attention to the specifics of this seemingly straightforward task, they will quickly build up a treasure trove of insights and even more remarkable. Related Article:Art Historians Alarmed By Vladimir Putin's Special Order to Turn Over 'Holy Trinity' Masterpiece at A Church gettyimagesbank By Park Jae-hyuk Extending the retirement age beyond 60 has become the top priority of unionized workers at major Korean companies in this year's collective bargaining talks, according to industry officials, Tuesday. Such a request from labor unions has especially gained momentum recently, due to the envisioned shortage of factory workers after the retirements of large numbers of baby boomers born between 1955 and 1963, as well as the government's plans to induce companies to retain senior workers in Korea's aging society. One of the latest examples of the companies being asked to extend the retirement age is Kia. The carmaker's union has called for the extension of the retirement age from 60 to 62, if it is difficult to hire young factory workers. This demand is also aimed at eliminating the so-called "income crevasse" or the period between a worker's retirement and the start of a retiree receiving national pension payments at 63. Hyundai Motor, the sister company of Kia, is facing even more pressure from its union to extend the retirement age to 64, considering the fact that those retiring after 2033 will be able to start receiving the national pension when they become 65 years old following the changes. According to the Hyundai Motor union, the extension of the retirement age is what its members want to achieve the most in negotiations with management. In a survey of the union's leaders, 66.9 percent of respondents answered that the extension of the retirement age is the most urgent issue in this year's collective bargaining talks. Given that Hyundai Motor posted record earnings last year, some industry watchers expect the carmaker's management to ask the union to choose between the extension of the retirement age or a higher wage increase. "Although our efforts have resulted in meaningful achievements so far, the business environment facing us is tough," Hyundai Motor CEO Lee Dong-seok said in a letter to employees on Tuesday. "If our labor and management continue to maintain a good relationship this year, we will be able to generate better results." Earlier this year, a group of labor unions at Samsung Group affiliates mentioned the extension of the retirement age as one of the 10 requests to management. Last month, steelmaker POSCO's union included this item among 21 requests to management. In the shipbuilding industry that has faced a labor shortage, unionized workers at HD Hyundai affiliates and Hanwha Ocean, which was formerly Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, also urged their employers to extend the retirement age. Considering Korea's declining population, most companies concur on the necessity of extending the retirement age, but at the same time, they claim that reforms in wage systems should come first in order to get young jobseekers employed. The Korea Enterprises Federation said last December that a single beneficiary of the extended retirement age can reduce one permanent position. The business lobby group presumed that the beneficiary can even remove two permanent positions in a company adopting a seniority-based pay system. "The abolishment of the seniority-based pay system is prerequisite to prevent the extension of the retirement age from having a negative impact on the creation of jobs for young people," said Kim Dong-bae, professor of Incheon National University's Division of Business Administration. Pixabay/Pavlo Recent acts of terrorism in Plateau have resulted in the deaths of several Baptist church members, including their pastor. As a result, hundreds of members of the congregation were relocated. Mass Killing on Church Members In an interview on Sunday, May 28, Keoleh Saleh, the president of the Baptist Conference in Plateau, stated that 50 members of their congregation, including a pastor, have been murdered in Plateau state by an alleged Fulani militia that is inflicting devastation in Nigeria's central region. A report from Within Nigeria stated that Saleh claimed that the people who died were victims of a terrorist attack that occurred not too long ago in the state's Mangu and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas (LGAs). He also mentioned that more than 500 of its members had been evacuated due to this violence. Moreover, 23 women were left widowed as a result of the incident. Mr. Saleh further explained that nine members had been slain in Jwak Maitumbi, whereas only one member had been killed in Kombili. Approximately N3 million or over $6,500 had reportedly been spent by the church in the past week to provide for the necessities of its displaced members who had taken sanctuary in its different local churches. "Within one week, we have spent about N2 million to get relief materials, but this is not enough, and our Baptist partners assisted us with N1 million to make it N3 million. But it is still not enough. We provided foodstuffs, clothing, shoes, mats, blankets, and other items," he asserted. On the other hand, during his visit to the members who had been forced to flee their homes, Israel Akanji, the national president of the Nigeria Baptist Convention, provided prayers and financial aid to those hurt due to the attacks. He appealed to the state and national governments and the various security agencies to step up their initiatives to deliver aid to those affected and find long-term remedies for the recent upsurge of killings in the state and around the nation. Furthermore, The Guardian reported that on Sunday, May 28, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna expressed their dismay over the fact that 15 believers who had been kidnapped in the state were still being held captive with only hours remaining in President Muhammadu Buhari's term. Chairman of the CAN branch for Kaduna State, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, stated that in all sincerity, as an organization, they are concerned about the people of Nigeria because they are essential. He further stated that more than forty worshipers were taken from the Bege Baptist Church in Madallah, located close to Buruku and within the jurisdiction of the Chikun Local Council. There are still 15 of them associated with the bandits. In addition, there has been no success in persuading the robbers to release them, despite all the efforts made. Rev. Hayab noted that these impoverished villagers do not have the means to pay for the expulsion of these individuals. The robbers are reportedly demanding cash and bicycles from their victims. "Those in power are just thinking of what to grab. Nobody has even shown concern on how to get these people delivered to their respective families," he noted. Also Read: Nigeria Terrorist Killed Another 33 Christians Similar Incident of Terrorist Attack in Plateau On March 5, Fulani herders assassinated the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) Pastor Musa Hyok and his two sons, Emmanuel Musa, and Mang Musa. Morning Star News reported that the attack occurred at midnight in their home in Ganawuri town, which is located west of Jos in Riyom County. Accordingly, at approximately 11 p.m. on March 26, another attack by herdsmen and other terrorists occurred. The bandits reportedly stormed into the residence of a family, which is also a member of the congregation of the COCIN. Once inside, they murdered Micah Gochin and took his son hostage. Related Article:Terrorists in Nigeria Killed Rev. Musa Mairimi of Evangelical Church Winning All, Wife Kidnapped Pixabay/Thomas Ulrich The Vatican's Dicastery for Communication has called on Catholics to conduct an "examination of conscience" regarding their social media use and ability to share the Gospel. The dicastery emphasized the need to reflect on how social media influences individuals and its potential for building community and caring for others. Conduct of "Examination of Conscience" In a pastoral reflection titled "Toward Full Presence, A Pastoral Reflection on Engagement with Social Media," the dicastery expressed concern over the prevalence of heated and disrespectful discussions online, including among church leaders, the National Catholic Reporter reported. It urged individuals not to react to inappropriate or divisive content on social media, as responding to or sharing such content amplifies its negative impact. The document, signed by Paolo Ruffini, prefect of the dicastery, and Msgr. Lucio Ruiz, secretary of the office, was unveiled during a news conference. While social media can be a tool for sharing Gospel values, the dicastery highlighted the need for users to be aware of its pitfalls. It cautioned that social media platforms profit by using users' posts to target advertising and sell their data. As mentioned, the dicastery called on Catholics to burst their filter bubbles by seeking information from diverse sources and engaging with differing perspectives. It also emphasized the importance of understanding the risks associated with artificial intelligence, fake news, and manipulated media. Moreover, according to the Catholic Courier, Pope Francis also emphasized the significance of conducting a daily examination of conscience to recognize God's presence in one's life and identify the attempts of the "evil spirit" to lead them astray. During his weekly general audience on November 30, 2022, the Pope urged believers to reflect on their experiences and examine their hearts for just two minutes daily. Also Read:Social Media May Negatively Effect One's Christian Life Wise Use of Social Media Radical.net reported that social media had become an influential tool for communication and connection in the digital age. Recognizing its potential, Christians increasingly use these platforms to share their faith and spread the message of the Gospel. It can encourage believers to cultivate a genuine and personal relationship with God, ensuring that their actions on social media align with their faith and values. By striving for consistency between their digital presence and daily lives, Christians can authentically reflect their faith to others. Furthermore, Christians can prioritize listening and understanding in their interactions on social media. Rather than solely promoting their views and beliefs, believers should actively engage with others, seeking to understand their perspectives and fostering respectful dialogue. The approach allows for meaningful conversations and planting seeds of faith. In a world filled with negativity and division, Christians can counteract the trend by spreading love, hope, and encouragement through social media interactions. Believers can positively impact the online community by sharing inspiring stories, biblical insights, and acts of kindness. Christians can encourage people to go beyond online interactions and strive for meaningful connections. On the other hand, by offering support, guidance, and prayer, believers can create a supportive community where individuals can grow in their faith journey. Related Article: Vatican Rebukes Bishops Fueling Division on Social Media: Calls for Unity and Responsible Online Conduct Unsplash/Manny Becerra A series of proposals have been given by a group of Wisconsin Republicans with having the goal of amending the state's ban on abortion by providing definitions of some medical procedures that do not qualify as abortions when they are required to preserve a mother's life. If these proposals are passed by the Republican-majority Legislature, Democratic Governor Tony Evers is certain to veto them. Evers has already vowed to veto a different Republican-sponsored bill that would have allowed abortions in rape or incest situations. He said that he agrees with Wisconsin restoring abortion rights to what they were before Roe v. Wade. A year ago, after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Wisconsin's 1849 abortion prohibition legislation was reinstated. Wisconsin Republicans Propose Legislation to Restrict Abortion According to the article in Associated Press News, Attorney General Josh Kaul has filed a lawsuit to overturn this restriction, and he has the backing of Evers as well as a group of doctors. They contend that it is superseded by a statute from 1985 that allowed abortion up until viability. The Wisconsin Supreme Court, which recently gained a liberal majority, is anticipated to rule on this matter. Four abortion-related legislation make up the legislative package put out by State Sen. Romaine Quinn and Representatives Gae Magnafici and Donna Rozar. The first law states that it wants to clear that actions are taken to preserve a woman's life while pregnant, but which can cause harm to the unborn child are not considered abortions. This further explains that doctors are doing their best to protect both the mother's and the child's lives and that these operations are not intended to abort the pregnancy. Also Read:Nebraska Lawmakers Pass Bill Limiting Abortion and Transgender Healthcare Access for Minors Increased Tax Relief, Grants to Pregnancy Centers and Adoption Aid Proposed Four provisions in the legislative package on abortion proposed by Wisconsin Republicans have received praise from Pro-Life Wisconsin, a well-known pro-life organization in the state. According to CBS News, the measures, according to the group's legislative director Matt Sande, would support the state's current abortion laws and provide the tools women and newborns need to thrive in Wisconsin after Roe v. Wade. One of the bills would increase $700 to $1,000, the amount of tax relief that parents can claim for each dependent. Parents of unborn children would also be eligible for this benefit, and they could apply for the exemption as soon as an ultrasound reveals the unborn child's heartbeat. A later plan requires the state Department of Health Services to give a $1 million grant per year to the pro-life organization Choose Life Wisconsin, Inc. The organization would use these monies to provide grants to pregnancy resource centers in the amount of up to $50,000. According to Fox 11 Online, these facilities offer treatment for both moms and babies and crisis pregnancy counseling and support for single mothers. The package's final version suggests giving $5 million in state funding to agencies that assist people in adopting children. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu did not immediately respond to questions regarding their positions on this legislative package on Tuesday. A bill to allow abortions in cases of rape or incest was submitted earlier this year by Vos and Assembly Republicans. However, because Governor Evers has vowed to veto it, this measure has remained inactive. LeMahieu has further stated that the Senate will not consider this legislation. Related Article:North Carolina Governor's Eleventh-Hour Appeal to Halt Stricter Abortion Restrictions Their relationship shows us the danger of comparing ourselves to others and doubting God's plans for our lives. The Bible gives us many pictures of messy, real relationships, and the story in Genesis of the two sisters Rachel and Leah one example. Their rivalry over their cousin Jacob, and over having children, led to a fractured relationship and emotional anguish. I relate to Rachel and Leah, because I too often compare myself to others and can even manufacture rivalries where none exist. Leah compared herself to Rachel and felt that she came up short, because Jacob loved her sister more. But Rachel compared herself to Leah and felt that she was on the losing end of the equation, because Leah was fertile. In case youre not familiar with the story, in Genesis 28 and 29, Jacob fell for Rachel and agreed to work seven years for her hand in marriage. However, her father, Laban, decided to trick Jacob and sent his oldest daughter Leah in to meet with Jacob in the darkness of the wedding chamber instead of Rachel. When Jacob confronted Laban, the elder man offered to give Rachel as another wife to his nephew, on the condition that Jacob work seven more years for him. Jacob agreed. Leah must have felt awful to be rejected not once but twicefirst, when Jacob asked for her younger sister Rachels hand in exchange for working for Laban, and second, after Leah spent a night in his arms. Its understandable if jealousy, envy, shame, and disappointment swirled inside her. Genesis 29:30 plainly states Jacob loved her [Rachel] more than Leah. After only a week with Leah as his bride, Rachel became his second wife. Just as Leah surely felt less than beside her beautiful and adored sister, Rachel must have felt betrayed by Laban and Leahs deception on what was supposed to be her wedding night. After a seven-year betrothal, she was deceived just as Jacob was. The rivalry between the sisters became even more intense in the latter portion of chapter 29 and into chapter 30 of Genesis, when Leah began having children and gave Jacob four sons. Sadly, after delivering each of the first three boys, Leah voiced her fervent hope that Jacob would love her or even just connect with her. However, even though Rachel had Jacobs heart from day one, she was extremely jealous of Leahs ability to bear children. Back then, childlessness was seen as a curse, which explains why Rachel told Jacob to give me children or I die. Leahs life had its low points, for sure, but God did bless her with many children. Her brood included Levi, from whom Israels priestly line/descendants came, and Judah. And in the ultimate redemption, Jesus came from Judahs line. Leah was also buried next to Jacob in the family tomb and was listed as part of Gods whos who in Genesis 49:31, along with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sarah, and Rebekah. How awesome Gods redemptive story is! Rachel and Leahs relationship reminds me that we wont clearly see all God is doing this side of Heaven. It also challenges me. Too often, Im not content with the gifts God has given me and feel envious of another persons good fortune. At times, Im jealous when a fellow leader receives an accolade Id love to receive, or when another author receives an acceptance from a publisher who rejected me. I can even become jealous of a ministry leaders social media following. Maybe you struggle in this way, as well. While social media has helped us connect with fellow believers all over the world, it also makes it easier for us to compare ourselves with others, measuring our real lives by their curated accounts. The enemy of our souls knows that he can plant or play on insecurities and doubts about our worth to tempt us to jealousy, envyeven self-hatred. He places menacing thoughts in our heads: Ill never measure up. No one will ever recognize my hard work. Why isnt God using me like Hes using him (or her)? What does he/she have that I dont? What if I never get the opportunities theyre enjoying? We can take encouragement from these truths: we measure up because of Jesus death and resurrection. Were worthy because of His righteousness. God loves us and He proved it once and for all on the cross. And He has a perfect plan for each of us, according to our gifts, abilities, and personalities. When we succumb to Satans schemes, we lose sight of who He has created us to be, and what He has specifically called us to do. We also forget that we only see a glimpse of someone elses life, not the whole picture. I pray that the story of Leah and Rachel leads us to drop the comparison game, confess our sins of jealousy and envy, and turn our attention back to God. When we live in communion with Him, He makes our lives everything He created them to bein His perfect timing. I Peter 2:9-10 (MSG) reminds us, But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, Gods instruments to do his work and speak out for him, to tell others of the night-and-day difference he made for youfrom nothing to something, from rejected to accepted. Because of who Christ is, we are chosen, holy, called, accepted and royal. And we shouldnt waste time feeling rejected (even if weve been rejected by people), because Gods word tells us we have work to do; namely, telling others about the difference Jesus has made in our lives. So if you're weary of comparison, jealousy, and envy--take heart! God has a journey planned for us that rivals anything our minds can imagine. The Better Samaritan blog is produced by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College, which offers a M.A. in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership and a Trauma Certificate. To learn more and apply, visit our website Dena Dyer is a professional speaker and Bible teacher, as well as the author or co-author of twelve books, including Wounded Women of the Bible: Finding Hope When Life Hurts with Tina Samples. She serves as Communications Specialist for Wheatons Humanitarian Disaster Institute. An unusual act of Christian unity in Jordan this month could inspire a revolutionary change in the region. The leaders of all the Christian denominations in the Hashemite Kingdom agreed May 11 on the final draft of a proposed law on inheritance that guarantees equality in distribution between Christian male and female heirs. It would also allow female heirs to ensure their share of inheritance is not distributed to male relatives. The recommended text, submitted by lawyers and Christian social activists, was years in the making and drafted after repeated appeals by Christian families. It will still need to be approved by the Jordanian government and pass the legislature. Jordans constitution, which doesnt discriminate based on religion (Article 6), allows for the creation of religious courts that can adjudicate issues of family law such as marriage, divorce, and alimony (Article 109). For decades, Christian ecclesiastical courts have been allowed to work freely and rule in the name of King Abdullah II on all family issuesexcept on inheritance. The issue of distributing the assets a deceased Jordanian leave behind is detailed in Article 1086 of the kingdoms Civil Code, which holds that all Jordaniansirrespective of their religionmust abide by Islamic sharia when it comes to the distribution of an estate. Sharia law gives males twice the share of inheritance that females get; if the heirs are all female, a portion of the estate is given to a male uncle or a male cousin. In Jordan, as in all Middle East countries (including Israel), all issues of personal status are based on religion. A citizen cannot marry, divorce, adopt, or inherit based on civilian law. Some countries give importance to a will; however in most, a will has moral but not legal powers. While local Christian communities once enjoyed equal rights in inheritance when they followed Byzantine law, that policy changed with the establishment of the Trans-Jordan emirate in 1921. A few years after the establishment of Israel in 1948, the West Bank (including Jerusalem) became part of the Hashemite Kingdom and so Palestinians there generally fall under the same law when it comes to applying Islamic sharia in relation to inheritance. Many Christian families put pressure on their female members to relinquish even the half portion that Islamic law stipulates for female heirs. For generations, and especially in rural areas, the idea has been that land ownership by male brothers helps keep valuable land in a familys domain. Article continues below There are stories of Christian men who have pressured a married sister, almost immediately after the death of the family patriarch and while she is still mourning, to sign away her rights in the family land to her male siblings. The problem has become so prevalentboth among Christians and Muslimsthat a few years ago the government of Jordan forbade any transfer of land rights to heirs for at least three months after a death. The current campaign was triggered by some brave womenespecially in families with no maleswho believe the current law discriminates in favor of male relatives, giving them rights to a home or land to which they had no connection. A campaign initiated in 2018 by Lina Nuqul, a courageous Christian woman from a well-to-do family, mushroomed into a nationwide effort that has now culminated in the approval by Jordanian churches of the draft law. I am very happy that this issue has finally been taken seriously, Nuqul told Christianity Today, and that the churches have approved it. This latest effort follows previous failures in which male Christian members of Jordans parliament quashed a prior attempt initiated by Nuqul five years ago. Jordans 130-seat parliament has nine Christians, who win their seats in fulfillment of a quota. The rest of the parliamentarians were not willing to change the law for Christians while the Christian parliamentarians were not on board. The previous impasse might reoccur. This time, however, the Councils of Christian Denominations is on board supporting the change. There are many Bible verses on managing money, but on gender equality scholars often cite this verse in Galatians 3: There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus (v. 28). Another verse often invoked about the need to keep an inheritance in the direct family and not divert it to any male uncles or cousins is in Proverbs 13: A good person leaves an inheritance for their childrens children (v. 22). And the Old Testament story of the daughters of Zelophehad in Numbers 27:68 has the Lord instruct Moses to grant equal inheritance to female heirs. Today Jordanian women are also much more aware of their rights. And society has changed over the years as most families, especially Christian families, have moved from the more conservative male-dominated village areas to the more liberal cities. Christian families are also smaller in size, which means that there are more cases in which a family of two or three children might not have a male child. Rumors also are afloat that the government and the king are not opposed to the current effort to approve a law giving Christian women equal rights. Article continues below Nidal Qaqish, a former council member of the city of As Salt and a member of the Orthodox Society, told CT that the approval of church leaders would not have happened without the strong push from the community. I know for sure that the public support helped sway the Bishop of Jordan to support it, he said. Some observers of the Christian community in Jordan say that while a change is happening among younger Jordanian Christians, the older landowners are still opposed to the idea of equal distribution of wealthespecially land. Some suggest that one way to overcome this problem is to allow males who want to keep land in their family name to compensate their female siblings for the market cost. But most church courts will not deal with such an idea and therefore it will have to be done outside the court system. Jordans population, which has swelled by more than a million to 11 million due to the Syrian refugee crisis, is largely young. A third of all Jordanians are under the age of 13, while the median age is 23.8. Official statistics place the number of urban Jordanians at 91 percent of the population. Christians comprise 2 percent. Legal experts are divided over the best approach to enact what has been agreed to by Christian activists and the 11 major denominations. Some argue that it needs to be codified into national law and passed in the parliament, while others believe that ecclesiastical courts have the right to apply the new regulation with a minimum of change. One suggestion is to add to the article about sharia law an exception for Christians, in accordance with the 2014 law regulating Christian communities personal status issues. Yacoub al Far, a member of the legal committee drafting the agreement, told Christianity Today that article 109 of the Jordanian constitution provides the power to the religious courts to deal with all personal status issues. While there is article 1086 that says all Jordanians must abide by the Islamic Sharia law, the constitution is a higher set of laws and therefore the ecclesiastical courts can simply rule on issues of inheritance without worrying about the lower court article, he told CT. At best maybe a word addition saying that Christian courts are exempt from article 1086 can be voted on to ensure that there is no misunderstanding. Article continues below Jordan, which expects a robust political process in the coming months due to political and election reforms initiated by the king, has seen the revitalization of a multi-party system. Leaders of some of the newly established parties have met with Jordanian Christian activists to gain their membership and support in elections due to take place in 2024. For many Jordanians, including the non-Christian majority, are looking to see if this law will become the law of the land. Egyptian Christiansthe regions largest Christian community by farlikewise hope that Jordanian Christians will prevail in passing the new law in a relatively conservative country whose king is a direct descendent of the prophet Mohammad. Syrian and Lebanese Christians dont have this problem of gender inequality in inheritance; in Palestine, the Lutheran and Anglican ecclesiastical courts distribute inheritance equally while Orthodox and Catholic courts have not made the change away from the Jordanian prevailing law that existed before the 1967 Israeli occupation. The small evangelical communities in Jordan and Palestine dont have ecclesiastical courts of their own, so they normally resort to the Anglican court for personal status issues. Evangelicals publicly support the new draft law, like the other denominations, despite the fact that they are not able to enforce it in their own court. Even though the evangelical council is not represented in the council of church leaders, we are supporting it, David Rihani, pastor of the Assemblies of God church in Jordan, told CT. In fact, a number of evangelical lawyers were involved in the drafting of the draft law that the churches council later supported. In Tunisia, the government approved a law of equality between male and female heirs in 2018, but that decision has not been fully implemented yet. However, in the North African nation the absence of male heirs doesnt mean that part of a familys inheritance can go to a male relative. The Jordanian parliament, now in recess, is expected to reconvene in October. Meanwhile, Christian activists are working hard to lobby their parliamentary representatives to ensure that the current effort produces results that the majority of the Jordanian Christian community is overwhelmingly behind. Daoud Kuttab is a Palestinian Christian journalist working in Jerusalem and Amman. He is a former Princeton University journalism professor and former board member of the Jordan Evangelical Council. Follow him on Twitter @daoudkuttab In this Close Reading series, biblical scholars reflect on a passage in their area of expertise that has been formational in their own discipleship and continues to speak to them today. Ive sung the Psalms for as long as I can remember, first as a kid in church, then as a worship leader from my college days until now. When I was younger, I remember singing at the top of my lungs to worship songs like Martin Nystroms As the Deer (Ps. 42) and Matt Redmans Let Everything that Has Breath (Ps. 150). When I became a biblical scholar, I encountered the Psalms in a new way, reading them historically and culturally. Meanwhile, as a worship leader, I help lead people into Gods presence through the singing of the Psalms. At times, reading the Psalms has felt like a conversation with a dear friend who knows me well. In March 2020, when the world changed all around us due to the pandemic, Psalm 68 redefined the idea of presence for me, just as I was experiencing absence in new ways. Many of us wrestled with new absences then. I realized how much I took embodied presence for granted, whether in the form of conversations with colleagues and students in my universitys hallways, a hug from a friend, or congregational singing. At the end of March 2020, I experienced a strange pain in my chest, sending spasms throughout my ribcage and back. This pain continued for almost two months. At first, we thought this might be connected to COVID-19, so I was quarantined for two weeks. After I tested negative, I was able to be with my family again. But though I was in the same room with them, for weeks I couldnt even handle a small hug; the pain was too intense. Until my pain subsided two months later, I felt that lack of closeness, the inability to be near others. In this struggle, the Spirit reminded me that when I cant be physically present with others, I can still experience Gods presence with me. Even when I cant sing at the top of my lungs to God, he can still be near to me in worship. The Holy Spirit revealed this to me through Psalm 68. The 68th Psalm has many things to say about Gods presence, especially when we feel alone and isolated or when we are starkly aware of our own need. It sits in the second of five books gathered to form the Book of Psalms. Book 2 contains many Davidic psalmseither by or about Davidincluding Psalm 68. It continues the theme of praise found in Psalm 67 and is followed by another picture of Gods presence in Psalm 69, where God saves David from the miry depths (v. 2). Article continues below Scholars debate how Psalm 68 was used in the past: perhaps as a communal lament the people sang together, a hymn sung when the people entered the temple, or a victory psalm celebrating Israels defeat of its enemies. Whatever the case, Psalm 68 shares with us aspects of Davids life, focusing on how Gods people sing about his divine presence. Psalm 68 is a theophany psalm. The idea of a theophany comes from two Greek words: Theo, meaning God, and phainein, meaning to show. A theophany is an experience of Gods presencethe moment when God shows up! Scholars point to how Psalm 68s theophany relates to other theophanies in the Old Testament. God appears in times of need to Jacob (Gen. 28:1022), to Moses (Ex. 3), and to prophets like Isaiah and Ezekiel (Isa. 6; Ezek. 1). When God shows up, he reveals who he is and transforms difficult situations. This helped me see Gods presence in Psalm 68 differently. First, God shows up in Psalm 68 as a divine warrior. While it may seem odd today to think of God as waging war, it might be helpful to remember how much we appreciate Gods power in times when we feel powerless. Gods power is able to send any of his enemies running (v. 1) and make evil melt away (v. 2). When I think of these enemies as the forces of darkness around us, I find this encouraging. God is more powerful than the thing I fear the most. He is more powerful than death or disease or loneliness or pain. Scholars point to images of divine warriors in the ancient Near East and how they relate to Psalm 68s picture of God. As a divine warrior, God rides on the clouds (v. 4), reflecting a common picture of storm gods as divine warriors in the ancient world. Yet in Psalm 68, God is the divine warrior who is also the Creator of the world and has power over everything he created (v. 8, 14). No other ancient god could claim this. Also, in ancient times, chariots (v. 17) were the best technological advances for war. So, in this sense, God is the high-tech divine warrior, using his created world to show his power. In the Old Testament, we also see God, the divine warrior, set his people free from slavery in Egypt, part the waters, and destroy their enemies. Joel 2 pictures the Day of the Lord with God as the divine warrior who has power over creation (here a locust swarm; see verse 25). Article continues below The power of Gods name travels from the Old Testament to the New when at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth (Phil. 2:10). John 12 quotes Zechariah 9 and pictures Jesus as the divine warrior when he enters Jerusalem. In each case, the message is clear: Do not be afraid of [your enemies]; the Lord your God himself will fight for you (Deut. 3:22). Image: Illustration by Scott Aasman Despite his power, God is not like the leaders of ancient Israels time or todays leaders who might value or care for only the powerful and elite. Instead, the psalmist points out that God sees those others might overlook. He acts as a father to the fatherless (Ps. 68:5). He defends the widow. For those who have experienced loss, he longs to care in the midst of that loss. When my husband, Jon, and I were doing our PhDs simultaneously, I remember treasuring these words. At the start of my program, one of my close friends unexpectedly died of leukemia. Meanwhile, Jon and I were struggling to pay our bills. I remember feeling like the bottom was pulled out from under my life and wondering what to do. One night, I didnt know where our food was coming from for the next day. We were between paychecks and didnt have enough to buy groceries for another few days. I remember praying late into the night for enough to feed our young daughter Elena. I cried out, God, we just need some fruit and veggies, maybe some milk. That would be enough. The next morning at 7 a.m., I heard a knock at my door. It was a woman from our church. She said that God woke her up and told her to bring us some of the fresh fruits and vegetables from her weekly delivery. The delivery service had accidentally given her extra; she had asked God who needed them. She threw in some milk because she sensed God wanted her to add to the bundle. As she spoke, tears filled my eyes. God cared about my little practical prayer. God showed me that even when I felt like my pain wasnt being seen or heard, God saw me. It was an important lesson to learn: When you feel powerless, God sees you. God sees the fatherless and fathers them. God defends the widow who might fall prey to those looking for vulnerable ones to attack. God also sees our loneliness; he sets the lonely in families (v. 6). In my early 20s, I moved from the US to Canada to start seminary. Though I knew no one, God showed me that he saw my loneliness by creating a new family for me in Canada of friends and surrogate parents and grandparents. He even introduced me to my husband at seminary. Years later, during the pandemic, God reminded me of each of these times when he was present. He reminded me that he is always the God who sets the lonely in families. Article continues below But Psalm 68 doesnt stop there. This personal God who knows the most fragile places in us is also the God who is able to free his people from slavery and sustain them in the wilderness through his miraculous provision. He led the Israelites out of Egypt with singing (Ex. 15). He poured rain down on them when they needed water (Ps. 68:8). He sent them manna when they needed food; he provided for the poor (v. 10). Through these signs, God refreshed his people, his weary inheritance, when they were wandering in the desert (v. 9). This is the Lord Almighty, whose power far exceeds that of any other king or any other nation (vv. 1118). This is the God who saves his people,who daily bears our burdens. Our God is a God who saves (vv. 1920). When I have surveyed my life and the burdens around me, God has reminded me that he is powerful enough to hold them. Whenever I have looked at sickness, death, and destruction around me, God has reminded me that he has the power to destroy all of these enemies, smashing them into bits and allowing us to escape from death (vv. 2123). Psalm 68:2426, then, does what I have done throughout my life as a worship leader: guide people into a procession of worship. When God as divine warrior destroys the enemies who plot against his peace and wholeness, we respond with praise. Back in 2020, when I could barely breathe through my pain, I remember longing to be part of my congregation again, singing with all of my might the praises of God. Responding with praise is our good and natural instinct. Psalm 68:3235 continues this praise by referring to what we see about God in the first 10 verses: They encourage the whole world to sing praise to the Lord, who is powerful and majestic. Gods power is not just over Israel, but over all of creation. This God of power and majestywho is awesome in the original sense of the wordis also the God who gives strength to his people and who knows our deepest needs. Reading Psalm 68 not only encourages us to praise the God who is present when we experience loss and absence; it also reminds us of those who are often overlooked in our society: the marginalized, the fatherless, the widowed, the lonely, the poor. Article continues below We might not immediately realize who those people are around us. But do we know a single mom who might be trying to balance work and kids? Do we have a friend who lost their job and is worried about what they will do next? Do we know someone who is living on their own and feeling lonely? Churches are finding ways to reach out to these people in need following COVID-19. Part of my work since 2020 has been with the Canadian Poverty Institute as we study how churches have responded to the pandemic, echoing Gods presence as they are present to those struggling. Continuing to care for those suffering from the pandemic is only one of many ways we can share Christs presence with the hurting around us. Psalm 68 reminds me that God sees my pain and the pain of those around me, and can heal them. This is the God who is present with us right nowwho sees us in our physical afflictions, loneliness, confusion, and grief. This is the God who will be present with us when we cant be physically present with others and the God who will be present with us when we can. And this is the God who has power over all creation, who can use the clouds as his chariot across the skies and can give us the provision we need. Beth M. Stovell is professor of Old Testament at Ambrose University and author of several books including The Book of the Twelve, coauthored with David J. Fuller. Have something to add about this? See something we missed? Share your feedback here. Church associate arrested in shooting death of pastor's wife, councilwoman Nearly four months after Eunice Dwumfour, a pastors wife and Republican New Jersey councilwoman, was gunned down in her car just outside her townhome in Sayreville, authorities announced that they have arrested and charged a 28-year-old Virginia man with her murder. At a press conference Tuesday, Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone said detectives from the Major Crimes Section of the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office, the Sayreville Police Department, the FBI and members of the Virginia Chesapeake Police Department arrested Rashid Ali Bynum outside a residence in Chesapeake City, Virginia, at 10:45 a.m. Ciccone said Bynum was taken into custody without incident and he was charged with first-degree murder, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun, and second-degree possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose. At the time of the press conference, Ciccone said Bynum was awaiting extradition to New Jersey where he would be held at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Facility pending a pre-trial detention hearing in the Superior Court of New Jersey. This was a very complex extensive case with painstaking police work every single moment until today and it will continue until after today, Ciccone said. The murder has shaken the community, and no arrest will bring back the late councilwoman. However, I do trust that justice will be found through the criminal justice process. At the time of her murder, Dwumfour, a 30-year-old mother, had recently married a pastor who lives in Nigeria. She was found in her Nissan SUV with multiple gunshot wounds. The shots were reportedly heard by her 11-year-old daughter. Along with her work as a councilwoman, Dwumfour served as a pastor at the Joshua Iginla Lasisi-led Champions Royal Assembly megachurch headquartered in Nigeria. Investigators say she was also an officer of Fire Congress Fellowship, a related entity of the church that has a branch in Virginia, WFMZ reported. Bynum was listed in Dwumfours cellphone contacts under an acronym for Fire Congress Fellowship. Court records cited by WFMZ say the church, where Dwumfour also served as treasurer, had been struggling financially. Records show the churchs income falling from $250,000 in 2017 to $350 in 2020. It remains unclear what was the nature of Dwumfours and Bynums relationship, but Sayreville Mayor Victoria Kilpatrick said she was troubled that the late councilwomans death is connected to her church. "The fact that it was connected to that component of her life is even more saddening to me because you look to God for light and protection. So to know that that was the connection hurts, but at the same time, evil can lurk anywhere, she told WFMZ. John Wisniewski, an attorney for Dwumfours family, said while they are happy for the arrest, they have even more questions today than there were before. We have an alleged murderer in custody in Virginia, but now they are trying to also understand the relationship, Wisniewski said. How this person came to target Eunice? What was the rationale? Episcopal Church leader Michael Curry briefly hospitalized for internal bleeding, heart problems The leader of The Episcopal Church had to be hospitalized over Memorial Day weekend due to suffering from internal bleeding and an irregular heartbeat. He has since been sent home. Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry was sent to a hospital in Raleigh, North Carolina, last weekend, according to a statement released by the denominations Office of Public Affairs on Tuesday. Currys internal bleeding is under control, and additional test results are expected later this week. He has been receiving treatment for atrial fibrillation (AFib), which was detected in an annual physical, stated the office. While in the hospital, Curry experienced two other episodes of irregular heartbeat, and he will wear a heart monitor to determine what further treatment is necessary. Curry will remain in Raleigh until medical professionals have cleared him for travel, according to the statement, with the Episcopal leader resting and working from home on a reduced schedule. As more information becomes available regarding Currys health and schedule, his staff will provide updates. Please pray for a full and speedy recovery and for Currys medical team as they identify the best course of treatment, concluded the statement. In 2015, Curry was consecrated as the presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church, becoming the first African American to hold the ecclesiastical position in the denominations history. God is not finished with The Episcopal Church yet, Curry declared at the 2015 consecration service. What God has done in the past, God can do again. God, Who parted Red Seas, can do it all over again. The God Who raised the dead to life can do it all over again. Curry was selected to give the sermon at the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in May 2018, with his remarks focused on the sacrificial love of Jesus. We were made by a power of love. Our lives were meant and are meant to be lived in that love. That's why we are here. Ultimately the source of love is God himself. The source of all of our lives, Curry preached at the time. Jesus did not get an honorary doctorate for dying. He wasn't getting anything out of it. He gave up His life, He sacrificed His life for the good of others, for the well-being of the world, for us. That's what love is. Love is not selfish or self-centered. Love can be sacrificial, and in so doing, become redemptive. Despite his popular appeal, Episcopal Church membership has continued to decline under his watch, going from approximately 1.77 million members in 2015 to around 1.67 million in 2021, which are the most recent numbers available. Currys medical emergency comes as his nine-year term as presiding bishop is nearing its scheduled conclusion. The 81st Episcopal Church General Convention will elect his successor in the summer of 2024. Minnesota law keeps faith-based colleges out of dual enrollment program A lawsuit has been filed against the state of Minnesota over a law excluding religious colleges and universities from a program that enables high school students to obtain no-cost college credit. The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty announced last week that it was filing a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota following the Democrat-controlled Minnesota Legislatures amendment of the Postsecondary Enrollment Options program to exclude institutions that require a faith statement from a secondary student seeking to enroll in a postsecondary course or base any part of the admission decision based on a students race, creed, ethnicity, disability, gender or sexual orientation or religious beliefs or affiliations. As explained in the complaint, the Postsecondary Enrollment Options program seeks to promote rigorous academic pursuits and to provide a wider variety of options to high school students by enabling them to enroll full time or part time at eligible postsecondary institutions and thereby simultaneously earn both high school and college credit, cost-free. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of parents Melinda Loe, Mark Loe, Dawn Erickson and their children, as well as Crown College and the University of Northwestern-St. Paul, names Minnesotas Democrat Gov. Tim Walz, Minnesota Commissioner of Education Willie Jett and the Minnesota Department of Education as defendants. Its May 24 filing coincides with Walzs signature of the changes to the Postsecondary Enrollment Options program, which are slated to go into effect July 1. The complaint identifies the changes to the Postsecondary Enrollment Options program as violations of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitutions Free Exercise and Establishment Clauses as well as the Equal Protection Clauses ban on discrimination based on religion. It asks a federal judge to declare the revisions unconstitutional in addition to requesting awards for damages and attorneys fees. Minnesota politicians just slammed the door on thousands of kids in their state who want to get a head start on college, all because the schools they want to attend share their religious beliefs, said Becket Senior Counsel Diana Thomson in a statement announcing the lawsuit. That decision is not only patently anti-religious; it is also against the law. Plaintiffs Mark and Melinda Loe elaborated on how the changes to the Postsecondary Enrollment Options program directly impacted them: The PSEO program guarantees all students equal opportunity to pursue excellent academics at a school of their choice. It gave our older children a head start on college in Christ-centered communities at Northwestern and Crown. All we want is for the rest of our children to have the same opportunity to be educated in an environment consistent with their religious beliefs. Rather than discriminating against people of faith, Minnesota should be looking for ways to help all students find a school that best fits their interests and values, they added. University of Northwestern-St. Paul President Corbin Hoornbeek described his institution as the largest PSEO provider in Minnesota and outlined its purpose as to provide Christ-centered education, equipping students to grow intellectually and spiritually, to serve effectively in their professions, and to give God-honoring leadership in the home, church, community, and world. Noting Northwesterns desire to continue helping on-campus PSEO students flourish in preparation for the next chapter of their academic journey, Hoornbeek expressed hope that the court will uphold our ability to do so, just like any other Minnesota school is permitted to do. Crown College President Andrew Denton offered a similar analysis, asserting that the First Amendment protects our current and future PSEO students right to participate in PSEO without abandoning our faith. Even in the face of legislation designed to hinder students who want the education we provide, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting our mission and our communitys deeply held religious beliefs, Denton asserted. The lawsuit comes a week after the Minnesota Legislature amended the statute governing the PSEO program as part of HF 2497, a massive education bill Walz signed into law Wednesday. On May 16, the Democrat-controlled Minnesota House of Representatives approved HF 2497 in a 70-62 vote that fell along party lines, with all votes in favor of the measure coming from Democrats and all votes in opposition coming from Republicans. That same day, the Democrat-controlled Minnesota Senate approved the measure in a 35-32 vote, with one Republican joining all Democrats in supporting it and all other Republicans voting against it. Is new paganism actually pagan? Recently in The Guardian, Emma Beddington covered a new twist on an old practice. According to the 2022 U.K. census, writes Beddington, 74,000 people declared they were pagan, an increase of 17,000 since 2011. Meanwhile in the U.S., a 2014 survey by the Pew Research Center estimated at least 0.3% of people identified as pagan or Wiccan, which translates to about one million people. And, though its not clear how anyone could know this, That number is expected to triple by 2050. Those numbers, while a small minority of the population, are significant when set against the overall decline of Christianity in the West. According to British historian Dr. Ronald Hutton, todays version of paganism is a religion in which deities dont make rules for humans or monitor their behaviour humans are encouraged to develop their full potential. This comes with a heavy emphasis on being Earth-conscious, with rituals and festivals focused on connecting with nature. In this way, suggests Hutton, paganism is filling a need for a spiritualised natural world in a time of ecological crisis. Beddington describes the new paganism as a tolerant, open, life-affirming, female-friendly faith. It does seem to check all the right contemporary Western boxes: a feeling of transcendence without many hard commitments, a rejection of traditional morality while keeping a vague inclusivity, and enough concern for the natural world to qualify as a social justice cause. Or, as a group based out of the University of Massachusetts Amherst summarized: Pagans view the world as a place of joy and life, not of sin and suffering. We believe that the divine is here with us in the natural world, not in some faraway place in the sky. At the same time, the new paganism is a world away from ancient paganism. Though often a catch-all term for a wide variety of pre-Christian beliefs, paganism suffers from a shortage of written records. However, what we do know would not be best described as a universe born out of joy and life, not of sin and suffering. In Hesiods Theogony, the Greek version of the origin of the cosmos and the gods, the birth of each divine generation is preceded by violence. Uranus, the sky, produces children with Gaia, the Earth, but hates them. Of their children is the titan Cronus who castrates his father. His blood falls onto the Earth and sea and creates still more gods. Cronus is, in turn, dethroned and imprisoned by Zeus. Celtic paganism does little better. Drawing on contemporary sources, most scholars believe the Druids enacted human sacrifices on a broad scale to appease the forces of nature, which they saw as temperamental and hostile. One example is the Lindow man, whose mangled remains suggest a ritual death as part of cultic sacrifice. Employing St. Augustines approach to the depravity of pagan gods, writer Paul Krause offered this critique: The pagan gods were born from patricide and rebellion. They were born from primordial acts of sexual violence. Their patronage was in the civitas terrena which cared only to advance its depraved lust to control. Modern pagans reject ancient paganism. They find solidarity with the idea of human equality and dignity, see the natural world as a place of order rather than of chaos, and call for sexual restraint, the protection of children and disadvantaged groups, the end of slavery, mindless conquest, and human sacrifice. To this extent, they are embracing the innovations of Christianity. After all, it was Christianity and not paganism, as historian Tom Holland has explained, that taught that men, women, and children, slave or free, share the imago dei. It was St. Patrick, not the Druids, who believed and taught Ireland that the Earth is the Lords and the fullness thereof and not subject to hostile spirits who are appeased by bloodletting. It was Christianity that turned Nordic peoples away from a belief system that committed them to conquest, plunder, and death in battle. In short, all the things that make modern paganism appealing to modern people arent pagan. Though many Westerners are bored by the hollowness of materialism and desperate to fill the spiritual vacuum it has left, they will not find answers in dead religions. Only Jesus offers the truth: The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. Originally published at BreakPoint. People gather in the Nvidia booth at the Mobile World Congress mobile phone trade show, Feb. 27, 2014 in Barcelona, Spain. AP-Yonhap Nvidia briefly joined an elite club of U.S. companies sporting a $1 trillion market value on Tuesday, as investors piled into the chipmaker that has quickly become one of the biggest winners of the AI boom. The stock's value has tripled in less than eight months, reflecting the surge in interest in artificial intelligence following rapid advances in generative AI, which can engage in human-like conversation and craft everything from jokes to poetry. Nvidia has gained about 200 percent since October, far outpacing any other member of the broad-market SP 500 index. The rally has propelled its valuation past its peers, but some analysts say the AI boom means the stock should still be worth more. Its shares closed 3 percent higher at $401.11 on Tuesday, just a hair's breadth away from the $1 trillion valuation mark after hitting that level in intraday trading. Just four other U.S. companies currently have a valuation of more than $1 trillion - Apple Inc, Alphabet Inc, Microsoft Corp and Amazon.com. "We view Nvidia as the most important company on the planet in an era that is rapidly changing towards one that will be emphasized by greater AI capabilities," CFRA Research analyst Angelo Zino said. The latest surge furthers a rally from last week, which was jump-started by a revenue forecast that surpassed the mean Wall Street estimate by more than 50 percent, which some analysts called "unfathomable" and "cosmological." The highest price target values the company at about $1.6 trillion, on par with Google-parent Alphabet. Nvidia's forward price-to-earnings multiple (P/E), a common benchmark for valuing stocks, is 47.23. The figure is significantly above that of peers Qualcomm and Intel and also tops the sector median of 18.09, according to Refinitiv data. "While the company's valuation looks lofty at the moment, we think Nvidia has the earnings firepower as the adoption of its AI GPU remains in the very early innings," Kinngai Chan, senior research analyst at Summit Insights Group, said. Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, shows the Drive Pegasus robotaxi AI computer at his keynote address at CES in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. Jan. 7, 2018. Reuters-Yonhap A silent tragedy: The elimination of Aramean Christians from the Middle East Israel recognized Aramaic-Syriac Christians as an official identity in September 2014. To this day, no Arab or Muslim state has ever done so. Arameans are a distinct religious and ethnic group to which I belong, and they are the indigenous people of the ancient Fertile Crescent, the Land of Aram as it was mentioned in the Bible. This land had one of the greatest civilizations throughout the centuries. Aramaic was the language spoken by Jesus centuries before Arabic dominated the Middle East. Arameans living in the region call themselves messianic in Aramaic Mshihoye (Mecshiha), and in Arabic Masihi, which is derived from the world Messiah. Today, all of them pray in Aramaic Syriac, the sacred language of their Maronite and other Syriac churches. Many speak it daily, but they were forced to switch to Arabic since all their lands were occupied by Arab forces in the 7th-century Islamic conquest. Our community lives on a continuous stage of persecution from different occupiers like the Ottoman Turks, and modern Arab and Islamic regimes, including the Palestinian Authority. In Israel, there are almost 180,000 Christians, making up 2% of the country. Aramaic Christians comprise 15,000 of them and Syriac Aramaic Maronites are the majority among them. They live mainly in the north, in the Galilee region, Haifa, Gush Halav, and in the Kfar Baram community. The UN definition of genocide states 3 phases: 1. Physical Genocide: the annihilation of people in their homelands. 2. Cultural-linguistic annihilation. 3. Combination of both physical and cultural phases. Aramaic Christianity has suffered and is still suffering in the Middle East from genocide on all fronts. Aramaic Syriac Christian Maronites in Lebanon were massacred in 1860, and from 1915-1918 suffered from organized famine policy (called Kafno in Aramaic) by the Ottoman Turks. At the same time, Aramean Syriac Christian Orthodox and Armenians were facing genocide in northern Syria and in the south of Turkey. This happened in the early Islamic period and has continued until today in different locations and phases. The massacres happened during the 70s and 80s by Palestinian and other Arab Islamic Jihadists fighting Christians in their Lebanese land. So far, 61 Christian towns in Lebanon have been uprooted. Israel was the only force to prevent them from being annihilated and sacrificed. Many have hoped to establish peace and security between the two countries at the end of the war. Unfortunately, this longtime vision between the two nations has been rejected by the Muslim factions in the region. The oppressors never admitted their evil deeds and the oppressed Aramaic people feared exposing the evil and demanding recognition from Arab Islamic autocratic regimes we never fear the same thing under democratic Israel. Universities, governments, and the international community in the Western world that represent equality, human rights and democratic values know the truth but are not teaching this history. We at ICAA-Israeli Christian Aramaic NGO are leading the efforts in Israel to research and educate Israelis and the nations about our Aramean people and Aramaic language. We are hosting thousands of Americans and European students in cooperation with Philos Project and Passages. This is the least we can do with our modest budget. Germany, as a western nation, has admitted its wrongs against the Jewish people in the Holocaust and to this day are compensating the poor Jewish survivors and their families. They support the security of the Jewish democratic state of Israel as the only state in this world where persecuted Jews can find refuge and protection in their historic homeland. Lebanon was created based on demand of Aramaic Christian Maronite people from the French Mandate, aiming to build a nation for their own people where other persecuted Christians in the Middle East can find refuge in. Today, Lebanon has been kidnaped by extremist Islamic Shiite Iranian organizations acting as an Iranian proxy, terrorizing all Lebanese with their illegal arms. Putting their hands on Christian lands in Mt. Lebanon, threatening Christians not to align with Aramaic revival movements, bankrupting the state so that Christians will migrate to other countries and forcing millions of Christian Maronites to never return back to their lands. Any Lebanese Christian who dares to work on reviving their forefathers (and Jesus) Aramaic language becomes a suspect in their eyes and is accused of being a collaborator with Israel. In Hezbollah-controlled media in 2018, I and Christians from Arab countries were accused of being collaborators only because we were meeting together at a New York conference in 2017 to make efforts to preserve and save the Aramaic language. One must wonder, when did the language of Jesus become a threat to people? Might Arab and Islamic countries finally have to admit their wrongdoing against Aramaic Semitic Christianity? Would they help them, just as Germany has regarding Israel and its Holocaust survivors? There are good signs that the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia are becoming more liberal on this matter, especially when it comes to understanding the importance of Aramaic Christian Maronites regarding the long-term stability of Lebanon. Meanwhile, native Christians in general and Christian Aramaic communities enjoy being citizens of Israel. They enjoy freedom of movement, and other democratic values and rights like other communities. If you ask the 180,000 native Christians in Israel if they prefer to be controlled by Israel or any Arab regime, they will answer Israel. This may be a surprising answer for many, but not for us as native people of the land. Of course, the Christian minority in Israel still lacks many of its needs. We need more integration within Israel, and we continue to demand a Christian curriculum in the ministry of education for our Church schools just like the Druze, Muslims, and Jews have for their schools. It is a big mistake to keep Christian schools under the Islamic Arab curriculum. Without this, Christians like us are disconnected from our origins, faith, history, and the Aramaic language that was a vital part of our forefathers identity. Without this, we are prevented, as Christian Arameans, from playing our positive role in the region as agents of hope and peace in the Jewish-Arab conflict, and it ruins our efforts to revive our Aramaic language and identity as well our existence as a people of the land. 11-month-old dies after parents left her in hot car to attend church: police Police in Palm Bay, Florida, are still investigating the death of an 11-month-old girl who died after she was left alone in a hot car for three hours as her parents attended a worship service at the Mount of Olives Evangelical Baptist Church, a small Southern Baptist congregation that is a member of the Florida Baptist Convention. Jnmarc Molme, the pastor of Mount of Olives Evangelical Baptist Church, did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Christian Post on Wednesday, but the Palm Bay Police said in a statement cited by ABC News that officers responded to a call about an unresponsive infant in a vehicle at the church at about 1 p.m. on Sunday. "When they arrived, they learned the infant had been left in a car for approximately three hours while the parents went to the church service," Palm Bay Police Department said. A Palm Bay Police official told CP that they cannot release further details about the child's death because the case is still an active investigation. Palm Bay Police Chief Mario Augello called it "an unfortunate incident." No arrests have been made. "This is an unfortunate incident, and our condolences and prayers go out to the family," Augello said. Florida is ranked No. 2 in the nation for child hot car deaths. In 2023 alone, there have been at least three hot car deaths in the Sunshine State, according to KidsandCars.org. Dr. Kevin Campbell of Health First told WESH that a car can "heat up 20 degrees above the outside temperature within 10 minutes." If it's already hot outside, temperatures can get deadly quickly for children left alone in locked vehicles. "If a child gets to 104 degrees, that's when their temperature can cause problems. And you can start to see heat stroke. And above 107 degrees and we can see death," Campbell said. The National Safety Council reports that 33 children suffered hot car deaths in 2022. On average, 38 children under 15 die each year from heatstroke after being left in a vehicle. Since 1998, nearly every state has experienced at least one hot car death, the council notes. Jeanne Fennell, president and founder of KidsAndCars.org, told the outlet that accidentally leaving a young child in a hot car could happen to anyone. "The most important thing for people to know is that it can happen to absolutely anyone. There's no norm to it," she said. According to the Florida Baptist Convention, Pastor Molme and his wife Bulaine, both originally from Haiti, started the church in a local park in September 2018 with just nine people in attendance. By 2020, Molme and his wife were appointed as North American Mission Board church planters. Pastor Molme, who works part-time at a mechanic shop while his wife teaches math at a public junior high school, said they came to Palm Bay with their three children to serve. "We are a church that came to the community to serve, not to have people serve us. We believe that God has called us here to search for lost souls," Molme told the FBC. "It brings joy to our hearts to bring 'fresh water' into the community. We are very blessed to see the fruit God is producing through the work at Mount of Olives." Chick-fil-A accused of going woke over addition of diversity and inclusion agenda Chick-fil-A, the leading fast-food chain that has shuttered its stores each Sunday to allow employees "to rest and worship if they choose" since 1946 and became a household name because of it, is now coming under fire over the companys diversity, equity and inclusion agenda and Erick McReynolds, the black company executive driving it. Our founder, Truett Cathy, believed that a great company is a caring company, and since the beginning, care has been at the center of everything we do. We understand that the path toward Better at Together looks different for every business, states Chick-fil-A on a page on its corporate website dedicated to the DEI campaign. The page also states that Chick-fil-As Corporate Purpose is To glorify God by being a faithful steward of all that is entrusted to us. To have a positive influence on all who come into contact with Chick-fil-A. The company further notes that "At Chick-fil-A, Inc., our commitment is to approach this work with intention and humility, always believing the best in one another and striving for common ground. Were early on in our journey, but were honored by the opportunity to steward our organizations greatest asset our people and are energized by the road ahead. Conservatives like media personality Todd Starnes, however, were not amused by Chick-fil-As DEI push. So Chick-fil-A has a diversity, equity and inclusion division. Well, that explains the fried cauliflower sandwiches and kale salad. #woke#chickfila, he quipped on Twitter. Chick-Fil-A just hired a VP of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Whatever happened to just hiring people based on their character and competence? DEI is a slippery slope to go woke, go broke, Justin Dean, marketing director of the Tithely app, added in a tweet to his more than 15,000 followers early Tuesday morning. Less than a week ago, Missionary Spencer Smith, who describes himself as an independent fundamental Baptist questioned the Christian fast food chains values after Chick-fil-A Thibodaux in Louisiana publicly praised an effeminately dressed male employee named Tavion for his hard work. Say hello to Tavion! He has been with Chick-fil-A Thibodaux for over a year. His favorite position to work is on Drive-Thru bagger making sure your food is bagged fast and accurately! the restaurant noted. His favorite meal to get on break is a Grilled Sandwich with American cheese and ranch! He mentioned he enjoys coming to work and making new friends every day. During his free time, he enjoys working out and sleeping. We are so appreciative of all your hard work and dedication, Tavion! We love you! The post attracted thousands of reactions. Of the 71,000 emoji reactions, 41,000 hit the love button and another 24,000 clicked on the like button as of Tuesday evening. Many of Smiths 13,000 followers who reacted to his sharing of the post on his page raised concern about Chick-fil-As commitment to conservative Christian values after he asked: What is going on with Chick-fil-A? He further asked in another post on Tuesday, in reaction to the companys statement on diversity, equity and inclusion, if the leadership of the popular fast-food chain had gone gay as well. McReynolds has held the position of vice president of diversity and inclusion since November 2021, according to his LinkedIn page. He has been working with Chick-fil-A for more than 16 years, starting as a business consultant in 2007. Chick-fil-A restaurants have long been recognized as a place where people know they will be treated well. Modeling care for others starts in the restaurant, and we are committed to ensuring mutual respect, understanding and dignity everywhere we do business, McReynolds said in a statement on the companys website. These tenets are good business practice and crucial to fulfilling our Corporate Purpose. The DEI Board, an organization that creates confidential, vendor-free, peer-to-peer membership communities for people leading change at the worlds biggest companies praised his executive skills working in the restaurant industry in a recent statement. With skills in consulting, operations, customer satisfaction, team building, public speaking, and management, we are thrilled to have Erick in our community, the DEI Board wrote. Chick-fil-As conservative CEO Dan Cathy, who infuriated LGBT activists in 2012 when he publicly voiced his support for traditional marriage, revealed two years later in 2014 that he had found a "wiser way" to engage on social issues as his Georgia-based company expanded into the more liberal Northeast market. "All of us become more wise as time goes by," Cathy apologetically said in an earlier interview. "We sincerely care about all people." Conservative head of the Family Research Council, Tony Perkins, derided business leaders like Cathy at the time for tempering their positions on same-sex marriage in the name of business. "I think we're seeing those in the business community becoming cowards," Perkins said on Mike Huckabee's then Fox News program. "Tolerance is a one-way street for [the same-sex marriage supporters who boycotted Chick-fil-A]. What they want to do is force the rest of America not to just tolerate but to celebrate what they're doing, he added. They want to redefine America." Christian anti-trafficking network urges EU to crack down on corporations using forced labor A Christian anti-trafficking network is imploring the European Parliament to fine companies that aren't doing enough to combat exploitation and forced labor within their supply chains as the body gears up to vote on an European Union directive on corporate sustainability due diligence this week. The directive, which will be voted on during the European Parliament's plenary session held Wednesday and Thursday, would oblige corporations to identify and, if necessary, mitigate the adverse impacts of their activities on human rights and the environment. The European Freedom Network, a community of over 250 organizations united in the fight against human trafficking and commercial exploitation, says that while the directive is a "positive initiative" to reduce exploitation globally, it could be stronger. "It will hold accountable multinational companies that benefit from a lack of transparency and from tax and social dumping in developing countries so that they make profits to the detriment of human rights," the EFN's due diligence action group wrote in a recent report. "However, it is obviously not enough to abolish modern slavery and human rights abuses that are mainly caused by international socio-economic inequalities. In order to find the necessary balance between businesses' activities and respect for human rights, as well as effectiveness for due diligence application, the content of the Directive should aim for the highest common denominator among the EU Member States where legislation is in place." The EFN estimates over 21 million people are caught in situations of forced labor or exploitation globally. "[T]hose working to source raw materials or make products for big companies are exploited in dangerous working conditions and with wages that condemn them to grinding poverty. Forced labour is endemic across several sectors of the global economy," EFN stressed in a May 15 letter to its partners. To produce goods more quickly and in a less expensive manner, some companies subcontract to suppliers who exploit workers through poor wages, unsafe working conditions and forced labor. This is particularly prevalent in industries such as textiles, agriculture, construction and manufacturing, where the demand for inexpensive labor is high. Such exploitation can often occur in regions with less stringent labor regulations or oversight, including in Asia, Africa and Latin America. France, Germany and the Netherlands have already implemented national rules on due diligence, while a few companies have independently taken appropriate measures, the group notes. To maximize the potential of the EU directive, EFN proposes its extension to indirect commercial partners and all entities involved in supply chains, including one-time commercial partners. The network has also recommended that the directive include a standard monetary fine for non-compliant companies, a provision currently missing from the directive. "Unfortunately, the proposed Directive does not propose any common pecuniary sanction for non-compliant businesses, nor public or reputation consequences in case of a company infringement of its due diligence obligations," the EFN report states. "Although the risks of a material fine and reputation should act as a deterrent for companies, the Directive's lack of ambition could undermine the effectiveness of due diligence and the protection of human rights across the world." Drawing on German law, the EFN suggests the EU consider a penalty framework that includes an administrative fine of up to 8 million (roughly $8.5 million) or 2% of annual turnover and possibly barring offenders from public contracts for up to three years. The group believes collective action can effect change and urges individuals to investigate instances of human trafficking and exploitation in supply chains, support ethically responsible businesses, and demand corporate transparency and respect for human rights. EFN is encouraging Christian believers to contact their members of the European Parliament and advocate for the proposed directive. Siobhan Mullally, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially in women and children, agrees that the directive can be stronger. "[I]t is essential that the Directive includes an effective accountability mechanism for prevention of trafficking in persons," Mullally said in a statement. "As I have previously highlighted the current draft Directive does not ensure effective prevention and accountability, since it does not include small and medium enterprises. That constitutes a serious gap in a Directive that is aiming to make businesses accountable for their impact on people and the environment, including climate goals." Christian woman caught reading Bible starved by Muslim husband, left for dead at wild animal park NAIROBI, Kenya A Muslim upset with his wifes conversion to Christianity in western Uganda denied her food and left her in a national park with wild animals, she said. Sharifa Muhando, 27, of Kasese town, said her husband beat her and kept her from food for a week after learning that she had put her faith in Christ. The mother of a 2-year-old boy had kept her faith hidden from her husband, Musa Bwambale, and other relatives after accepting Christ on July 9, 2021. On May 10 at about 7 p.m., Muhando prayed in her room, read from her Bible and fell asleep, she said. Unfortunately I left the door open, Muhando told Morning Star News from her hospital bed. My husband came back from his place of work and called me, and I didnt respond because I was deep in sleep. He opened the door and found me with my Bible and a notebook on my chest. He shouted, Allah Akbar [Allah is greater]! The shouting of the jihadist slogan woke her. I was terrified after seeing him; he asked me what the matter was, she said. I answered him that this is a holy book. He got annoyed and beat me that night and told me that he was punishing me for leaving Islam, and that he will automatically be rewarded in Jannah [paradise] by Allah. Since that night he kept her from eating, she said, adding that after two days he threatened to kill her if she told anyone. On May 17, Bwambale took her to nearby Queen Elizabeth National Park, she said. My husband said he had received a dream from Allah of taking me somewhere, Muhando told Morning Star News. He took me on his vehicle and dumped me inside Queen Elizabeth National Park to be eaten by wild animals. The pastor of the church she had been secretly attending happened to drive by on the main road bordering the park, which is not fenced, and spotted her, she said. He called others to help him, and they took her to a medical clinic. Sharifas health was in a bad state, said the pastor, whose name is withheld for security reasons, and she has been undergoing treatment while suffering from injuries her spleen especially was affected, as her husband hit her with a blunt object, and she has pain around the neck. The doctors are also treating her for starvation and trauma-related symptoms. While preparing to report the case to police, he learned that Bwambale had died in a traffic accident, the pastor said. At the moment Sharifa needs prayers for quick healing and recovery from trauma and for her future life, he said. The attack was the latest of many instances of persecution of Christians in Uganda that Morning Star News has documented. Ugandas constitution and other laws provide for religious freedom, including the right to propagate ones faith and convert from one faith to another. Muslims make up no more than 12% of Ugandas population, with high concentrations in eastern areas of the country. Rick Warren shares 3 Bible passages that changed his mind on women pastors Former Saddleback Church pastor and founder Rick Warren recently laid out three passages from the Bible that led him to conclude that it is acceptable for women to serve in the office of pastor. Saddleback Church, the California-based megachurch founded by Warren in 1980, was recently expelled from the Southern Baptist Convention for having a woman fill the office of teaching pastor. The church plans to appeal the decision later this year. Since Warren's retirement last year, the church has been led by Andy and Stacie Wood. In a podcast interview with former SBC Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission President Russell Moore posted Wednesday, Warren said he believes that "we have to approach Scripture humbly" and that "the Church at its best was the Church at its birth." "This is not a battle between liberals and conservatives. All the liberals left a long time ago. Everybody in the SBC believes in the inerrancy of Scripture," said Warren. "Now we are talking about difference of interpretation." The best-selling author of The Purpose Driven Life laid out three Scripture passages that led him to conclude three years ago that it was acceptable for women to become pastors. Warren first cited Matthew 28:19-20. Known as the Great Commission, the passage involves Jesus telling His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." "We claim that we believe that the Great Commission is for everybody, both men and women are to fulfill the Great Commission," Warren argued. "There are four verbs in the Great Commission: 'go,' 'make disciples,' 'baptize' and 'teach.' Women are to go. Women are to make disciples. Women are to baptize and women are to teach, not just men." The second passage he cited was the day of Pentecost, as explained in Acts 2, in which the Holy Spirit came down upon the early church, with those present speaking in foreign tongues. "We know women were in the room. We know women were filled with the Holy Spirit," said Warren. "We know that women were preaching in languages that other people couldn't hear to a mixed audience. We know women; it wasn't just men; women were preaching on the day of Pentecost." Warren noted that, in the passage, when the Apostle Peter told the crowd what was happening, he quoted the Old Testament verse of Joel 2:28, which states, "on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy." His third verse of evidence was John 20:17 when Jesus told Mary Magdalene to tell the disciples about his resurrection, noting that Jesus "chose her to be the first preacher of the Gospel." Warren added that while he supported women becoming pastors, he stressed that "it doesn't bother me if you disagree with me," noting, "I have to say, I could be wrong." "For 2,000 years, the Church has debated the role of women in culture, but to make it a litmus test for 'are you a Baptist or not?' is nonsense," he continued. Warren was asked if Saddleback will appeal the expulsion at the SBC Annual Meeting in June. He replied that while he just wants to "walk away from it," he also felt that he had to do so. "I need to stand up for the pastors who are scared to death by this inquisition, and I think I need to stand up for the millions of godly Southern Baptist women whose gifts and leadership skills are being stymied," said Warren. Warren told Moore that while he believed that churches should be expelled from the SBC for "sin, racism, sexual abuse, other sexual sins, things like that," having a woman serving as a pastor should not be one of them. "We should kick out churches for sin. We should kick out churches that harm the testimony of the convention. This isn't harming the testimony of anybody," he added. Supporters of the SBC prohibition on women pastors include Owen Strachan, a theology professor at Grace Bible Theological Seminary and a critic of Saddleback's direction on the issue. In a Facebook comment responding to Saddleback's 2021 announcement that it ordained three women as pastors, Strachan cited 1 Timothy 2:9-15, which includes the verse in which Apostle Paul writes: "I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet." "Churches that affirm women pastors are opposing the Word of God, and opposing the Word of God means opposing God himself," said Strachan. "Now is the time to leave and find a sound congregation. Do not delay. There is no spirit of competition in what I write here; what Saddleback is doing grieves me, and I have no doubt grieves many in the congregation." Warren retired as senior pastor of Saddleback last September, succeeded by Pastors Andy Wood and Stacie Wood, who Saddleback identifies as its teaching pastor. Last month, the SBC Executive Committee approved a recommendation from the SBC Credentials Committee to label Saddleback and four other churches as "not in friendly cooperation with the Southern Baptist Convention" over their decision to allow women to hold the office of pastor. SBC's Executive Committee Chairman Jared Wellman said in a statement to Baptist Press that the disaffiliations came because of "the churches continuing to have a female functioning in the office of pastor." "As stated in the Baptist Faith and Message Article VI, the SBC holds to the belief that the office of pastor is limited to men as qualified by Scripture," stated Wellman in February. "These churches have been valued, cooperating churches for many years, and this decision was not made lightly. However, we remain committed to upholding the theological convictions of the SBC and maintaining unity among its cooperating churches." In the SBC, local churches ordain pastors, not the denomination as a whole. Last August, prominent SBC theologians Richard Land, Albert Mohler and Chuck Kelley published a statement clarifying the meaning of the word "pastor" to mean "one who fulfills the pastoral office and carries out the pastor's functions." The three men were tasked with writing a study guide for the Baptist Faith & Message when it was revised in 2000. "[I]t is important to understand that the word pastor was chosen precisely because of its clarity among Southern Baptists. The statement carefully affirms that both men and women are gifted for service in the church, but the role of pastor is biblically defined and is to be held only by men as qualified by Scripture," they stated. The 2000 Baptist Faith & Message establishes that "pastor" was not to be used to describe every ministerial position within a church. Rick Warren says he rejects both complementarian, egalitarian views of women in Church: 'Unbiblical weaknesses' Rick Warren, the founder of Saddleback Church, said in part one of a video series posted online ahead of the Southern Baptist Convention that he has felt compelled to reject both the complementarian and egalitarian views of a womans role in the Church and in ministry after a three-year journey that led him to realize both beliefs have unbiblical weaknesses. In the video released as part of his four-part series titled SBC at the Crossroads, Warren weighed in on complementarianism, the theological framework that says women have distinct roles in the family and church and are forbidden from holding certain offices in the church, and egalitarianism, which contends that Scripture does not warrant such restrictions. There are biblical alternatives to both complementarianism and egalitarianism, he said. And while both of those positions have strengths, they both, in my opinion, have unbiblical weaknesses, and they ignore important Bible verses. So actually, I'm neither. I'm neither one of them, I reject them both. Now, if you're honest, you'll have to admit that Paul often says things about women in Scripture that appeared to contradict each other. So tell me what you want to believe and I'll show you the verses you have to ignore or rationalize away. The SBC holds to the belief that the office of pastor is limited to men as qualified by Scripture. In February, the SBC Executive Committee ruled that Saddleback, which Warren founded in 1980 and has since become the largest Southern Baptist church, is no longer in friendly cooperation with the SBC due to the church continuing to have a female teaching pastor functioning in the office of a pastor. In October 2022, Pastor Andy Wood, who succeeded retiring Warren at Saddleback, listed his wife, Stacie, as a "pastor" in his biography on the prominent California megachurch's website. And on May 7, Katie Edwards, one of the three women ordained at Saddleback in 2021, was announced as the Lake Forest campus pastor. Warren and Saddleback Church plan to challenge expulsion from the denomination at the SBC's Annual Meeting next month in New Orleans. In his video message, Warren said he was raised with cultural views on women but underwent a three-year process of biblical study and exegesis. He said this involved studying Greek words, understanding the background and context of Paul's writings and comparing passages where Paul seems to contradict himself. It was a difficult journey to have my biases and cultural traditions blown away by the Word of God. But when I was confronted with the truth, I had to humbly repent, no matter what my friends would think of me, he said. Warren said the turning point for him was Jesus' confrontation with the Pharisees, who were known for their strict adherence to traditions and rules. They loved making rules. They loved being legalistic. They loved protecting traditions, and they loved judging others, and they come to Jesus and they said, Lord, why do you break the traditions of the elders? And Jesus asks them a question Why do you break the commands of God for the sake of your traditions? Well, that did it for me. That was the thing that pushed me over. Warren said he will further address the role of women in the Church in the third installment of his series, titled New Testament Case for the Ministry of Women, but admitted he doesnt expect to change many minds. Honestly, it took me years of Bible study, he said. Warren and Saddleback Church also reportedly plan to release several videos making their case for inclusion in the SBC, according to Baptist News. The pastor told the outlet that Saddleback is not challenging the Executive Committees ruling for the churchs benefit, but for five specific reasons he said would benefit others we care about, including a desire to spark the thinking of messengers regarding the direction of the SBC. Were challenging the ruling on behalf of millions of SBC women whose God-given spiritual gifts and leadership skills are being wasted instead of empowered for the Great Commission, he said. We cannot finish the task Jesus gave us with 50% of the Church forced to sit on the bench. Great Commission Baptists believe Jesus authorized every woman to go, to make disciples, to baptize and to teach just as he authorized every man. 'Historic night': Saddleback Church ordains first female pastors Saddleback Church, the California-based megachurch headed by Pastor Rick Warren, announced that they ordained their first three female pastors, despite being affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, which prohibits female ordination. In an announcement posted to their Facebook page on Friday, Saddleback said that they had a historic night on Thursday when they ordained their first three female pastors. We ordained our first three women pastors, Liz Puffer, Cynthia Petty, and Katie Edwards, Saddleback Chuch said in the post. We commissioned three new elders, Anthony Miller, Jeremiah Goley, and Jason Williams! And we appointed Pastor Johnny Baker as the new global leader of Celebrate Recovery! As of Saturday afternoon, the Facebook post garnered around 575 likes and over 360 loves, but it has also garnered some critical comments from those opposed to female ordination. The Christian Post called Saddleback Church on Saturday afternoon for comment and to confirm whether the church will continue to be part of the Southern Baptist denomination. The church was closed at the time, however. Owen Strachan, a theology professor at Grace Bible Theological Seminary, posted a comment labeling the ordination as an example of unbiblical developments, adding that the time to leave is NOW. Now is the time to leave and find a sound congregation. Do not delay. There is no spirit of competition in what I write here; what Saddleback is doing grieves me, and I have no doubt grieves many in the congregation, posted Strachan, himself getting more than 140 likes and loves as of Saturday afternoon. Churches that affirm women pastors are opposing the Word of God, and opposing the Word of God means opposing God himself, Strachan added. To justify his stance, Strachan cited 1 Timothy 2:9-15, which includes the verse in which Paul writes: I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. In recent years, there has been much controversy over the SBC's stance against the ordination of female pastors, with some churches and individuals leaving the denomination over the position. In 2020, before the lockdowns in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, some SBC pastors demanded that Hosanna Wong, teaching pastor at EastLake Church in Chula Vista, California, should not be a featured guest of the SBC Pastors' Conference. Saddleback Church Pastor Andy Wood defends churchs stance on women pastors A month after the Southern Baptist Convention cut ties with Saddleback Church for elevating Stacie Wood to the office of teaching pastor, the church's lead pastor, Andy Wood, has defended the church's position on women serving as pastors. "It is the authoritative word of God that teaches us how to live, and it gives us instruction for our beliefs," Wood says in a video released this week. He said one of the Bible passages that often comes up in the discussion of women serving as pastors is 1 Timothy 2:12, which reads, "I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent." Wood said conservative, Bible-believing theologians interpret this passage of Scripture from different angles. Some believe Apostle Paul is saying that only men can teach in the local church. But Wood argues that is not how Paul led in the local church. He points to Romans 16, where paul commends Pheobe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. He also praised Greet Priscilla and Aquila, who Paul calls his "co-workers in Christ Jesus" who "risked their lives" and "all the churches of the Gentiles are grateful to them." Wood also points to Romans 16:7, where Paul praises a woman named Junia, who he says was an apostle and developed faith in Christ before he did. "Whenever there is a tension, or seemingly two things [in the Bible] that are true, we have to hold them together to gain a deeper understanding and acknowledge ... that our interpretation although the Bible is authoritative an inerrant our interpretation is not," Wood said. "We hold our interpretation through the lens of our humanity and understand that we are humans that are flawed. We are doing our very best to understand the Bible. That is why things like church history play into our perspective. That is why learning from other churches and other teachers is so helpful." The pastor said it's clear throughout the Bible that God intended to have two genders, assuring that men and women are very different from one another by design. While there is much focus in mainstream culture today on "gender transitions," Wood assured that Saddleback is not "caving to the culture." "We're trying to get back to God's design. What did God intend when you go to Genesis and you see God making Adam and Eve? What was God's intention?" he asked. "There's a danger in this conversation with what is called a trajectory hermeneutic. A trajectory hermeneutic says, 'Well, Jesus got the ball down the field this far, and now culture's taken things further, and we're trying to catch up to culture. We are not trying to catch up to culture in this conversation." He said that in the New Testament, there are concepts called "spiritual offices" and "spiritual gifts," adding that there are five spiritual gifts that Paul talks about in Ephesians: prophets, apostles, evangelists, shepherds and teachers. Wood said these gifts are discussed throughout both Jesus and Paul's teachings. "The question to wrestle through in the New Testament is were there both men and women who had the apostleship gift, the pastoral gift, the evangelist, shepherd, teacher?" he asked. "Undoubtedly, when you study the New Testament, almost every theologian would argue, 'Yes, there are men who are apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, teachers.' The question that is oftentimes in controversy is do women have those spiritual gifts or were they commissioned by God to be functioning in those particular areas of the local church." "What we would say to that is all throughout the New Testament, both in Paul's teaching and in Jesus' teaching, we see apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds and teachers." "In 1 Corinthians 16-19, we see very clearly that Aquilla and Priscilla were shepherds in a local church and were shepherding people. When it comes to teachers, in Romans 16: 1-2, Paul commends, in particular, a woman by the name of Pheobe as a teacher," he added. "This is important for us to recognize from a descriptive angle that the New Testament shows us women in apostle, prophet, evangelist, shepherd and teacher roles." "When you think of those five functions, there are also offices in the local church. There are two offices, in particular, that we see in the New Testament. ... [They] include the office of elder and the office of deacon. The question here is, are both men and women supposed to serve in those two offices." "We can see very clearly there is a description of deaconesses. ... Most theologians would argue there are women who served as deacon. The question is in terms of leadership. Our interpretation of the New Testament is that the role of eldership, according to God's design, is that is a role reserved for men, that men serve in the role of overseer." He said the way God designed the authority structure of the home and the local church was that men would serve as an elder. "A man who is an elder can empower women and utilize women to use their spiritual gifts in the local church," Wood said. "We see this from a descriptive angle all throughout the course of the New Testament." In reconciling Paul's prohibition on women teaching or having authority over men in 1 Timothy 2:12, Wood asks whether the verbs "teach" and "assume authority" are mutually exclusive. "Paul is using two verbs to communicate one idea. And as he says it, 'I do not permit a woman' to take, usurp the word literally means to usurp or seize authority," Wood says, explaining that Paul didn't "permit a woman to seize authority to teach and seize authority over a man." It's about the behavior of a woman as she exercises the spiritual gifts, as she exercises her functions in the church, Wood stresses. "So just like Paul gives order in a home with a husband being the head of a household, he's saying, 'I don't permit a woman to come and seize that role.' And so when a woman teaches in a local church, she's teaching in conjunction with the authority of the Church," Wood said. "She's not trying to overtake that authority. When she uses that spiritual gift, she's using it under the authority of the eldership or the leadership of that local church." At Saddleback, the pastor shares, "we have a group of elders who are all men." "We have women who will teach on our stage," he said. "All the men elders in our church are in full buy-in to women teaching and exercising their spiritual gift here at Saddleback." Last month, the SBC Executive Committee approved a recommendation from the SBC Credentials Committee to label five churches as "not in friendly cooperation with the Southern Baptist Convention" over decisions to allow women to hold the office of pastor. Along with Saddleback, other churches that were disfellowshipped include: New Faith Mission Ministry in Griffin, Georgia; St. Timothy's Christian Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland; Calvary Baptist Church in Jackson, Mississippi; and Fern Creek Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. The churches will be able to appeal their expulsion at SBC's Annual Meeting, scheduled to occur in New Orleans, Louisiana, on June 13-14. SBC's Executive Committee Chairman Jared Wellman said in a statement to Baptist Press that the disaffiliations came because of "the churches continuing to have a female functioning in the office of pastor." "As stated in the Baptist Faith and Message Article VI, the SBC holds to the belief that the office of pastor is limited to men as qualified by Scripture," stated Wellman. "These churches have been valued, cooperating churches for many years, and this decision was not made lightly. However, we remain committed to upholding the theological convictions of the SBC and maintaining unity among its cooperating churches." Launched in 1980 by pastor and bestselling author Rick Warren in California, Saddleback had grown to become the second-largest Southern Baptist church in the U.S., planting numerous churches in the U.S. and four campuses overseas. Before Warren retired last year, he hand-picked Andy Wood as the successor. His wife, Stacie, is identified as a teaching pastor at Saddleback. Saddleback initially garnered controversy in May 2021 when it ordained three women Liz Puffer, Cynthia Petty and Katie Edwards to be pastors. Christian university head says employees weren't fired solely for pronouns in email signature The president of Houghton University in New York is pushing back on claims that two staff members were terminated solely for including their pronouns in the signature line of their emails but emphasized the importance of staff members accurately representing the school's values in external and internal communications. In an interview with CBN News, Houghton University President Wayne Lewis Jr. commented on the pushback surrounding the dismissal of two residence hall directors, Raegan Zelaya and Shua Wilmot, from the Wesleyan Church-affiliated upstate New York school. Their dismissals were mentioned in a petition backed by hundreds of alumni, which stated that the employees were fired "for refusing to remove pronouns from their email signatures and expressing their personal beliefs publicly." "Houghton has never terminated an employment relationship solely based on an individual's use of preferred pronouns in their email signature," Lewis insisted, saying he couldn't discuss the specific employees or specific employment actions. But he described any allegation that employees were dismissed simply over pronouns in their email signature as "untrue." He cited the employees' actions as violating a "messaging policy that included but was not limited to email signatures." The policy also included a directive to employees regulating "any way that you represent yourself as an employee of the university" and implementing a "much more standardized approach." Lewis said the school shared with employees what elements email signatures need to include and what elements they should not include. "We find it very important for us to be absolutely transparent with our students, with our families, with prospective students and families and our partners about who we are," he said. "As an individual, we all have different ideas, perspectives, and causes that we hold dear, but as an employee of the university, when you are representing Houghton University, the things that you include in an email signature or along with your name need to be alignment with the positions, the beliefs, the doctrine of the institution and those things that are not in alignment with the institution should not be there." Lewis' interview with CBN News, published over the weekend, comes about a month after the school terminated Zelaya and Wilmot. Zelaya shared the contents of the April 19 letter she received from Houghton informing her that she was "being relieved of your duties effective immediately," citing a "refusal to remove pronouns in your email signature in violation of institutional policy." The letter also cited "false and defamatory statements" attributed to Zelaya in a recent news article. Wilmot said previously that he believed another reason he was terminated was that he described Wesleyan Church's teachings on sexual orientation and gender identity as "outdated and problematic." Before receiving their letters alerting them of termination, Zelaya already indicated her intention to resign to administrators. Wilmot said he learned in February that his contract would "not be renewed." The use of preferred pronouns in an email signature signals support for the idea that there are more than two genders and that an individual can identify with a gender that does not align with their biological sex. Lewis said "preferred pronouns" are "one of the elements that are not permitted in email signatures." "Including preferred pronouns in an email signature or including it with video conferencing sends a message, whether the person intends to or not," he said. "It signals that the institution and/or the person is open to or potentially accepting of a position about sex and gender that is not in alignment with the positions, the beliefs, the doctrine of Houghton University and our sponsoring denomination the Wesleyan Church." Lewis said that including preferred pronouns in an email signature does a "disservice" to students, prospective students and parents. "You are sending a message to them that Houghton believes something that it doesn't," he added. "It's imperative that we be very transparent about who we are and who we're not." Nearly 800 Houghton alumni, faculty and current and former students have signed a petition asking the school to "unequivocally affirm their commitment to charitable and respectful dialogue, not just in speech, but also in action." The petition requested that Houghton leadership "acknowledge that there is a range of views reasonably held by faithful and active Christians on topics of gender, sexuality, and race" and implement a "broadened understanding of the views that are acceptable for staff, faculty and chapel speakers to hold and express." Three days after the petition's initial April 28 submission, Lewis denied the signatories' request. In his response, Lewis stressed that school policy requires that "all employees be respectful of the positions, doctrine, and beliefs of the university," which "unapologetically privileges an orthodox Christian worldview, rooted in the Wesleyan theological tradition." Wesleyan Church teaching declares that "gender confusion and dysphoria are ultimately the biological, psychological, social and spiritual consequences of the human race's fallen condition." U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, left, and Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson shake hands during a press meeting in Lulea, Sweden, May 30. AP-Yonhap U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday urged Turkey to immediately finalize Sweden's accession to NATO, saying the Nordic country had already taken significant steps to address Ankara's objections to its membership. Blinken also rejected the suggestion that the Biden administration was linking Turkey's approval of Sweden's NATO accession to the sale of F-16 fighter jets to Ankara, although he said the U.S. Congress was doing so. A day before, the U.S. president also alluded to a link. Speaking at a joint press conference with the Swedish prime minister in Lulea, northern Sweden, Blinken said Washington was going to continue to work to complete Sweden's accession in time for a mid-July NATO summit that will bring together alliance heads of state. "We believe the time is now and there's no reason for not moving forward," Blinken said. "Turkey has raised important and legitimate concerns. Sweden and Finland both addressed those concerns." "We look forward to this process being completed in the weeks ahead. We have no doubt that it can be, and it should be and we expect it to be," he said. Blinken also reiterated to Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Tuesday his belief that Sweden is ready to join the alliance now, according to a State Department read-out of a phone call between the two. Sweden and Finland applied for NATO membership last year, ditching long-held policies of military non-alignment following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Bids for membership must be approved by all NATO members but Turkey and Hungary have yet to approve Sweden's bid. Turkey ratified Finland's NATO accession in March, but says Sweden harbors members of militant groups it considers terrorists. "We are in constant contact with our Turkish counterparts on this specific issue," said Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. Sweden is fulfilling "the very final part" of a memorandum of measures with a new piece of legislation on counter-terrorism due to come into force on June 1, he said. "We have done what we have told our Turkish friends." Earlier on Tuesday, Turkey called on Sweden to prosecute those responsible for projecting the flag of an outlawed group onto the parliament building in Stockholm on the day of Turkish elections that extended President Tayyip Erdogan's rule. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during a press meeting in Lulea, Sweden, May 30. AP-Yonhap Touring site where some believe the Virgin Mary spent her final days IZMIR, Turkey Among the most compelling Christian sites to visit in Turkey is a small shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary just outside the ancient city of Ephesus on the slope of Bulbul Mountain in Izmir. Its believed by some to be where the mother of Jesus spent her final days. Officially called the Ephesus House of Mary, the quaint building is popular among faithful travelers, many of whom weathered both cold and rain to see the attraction during a recent visit by The Christian Post earlier this month, courtesy of Turkeys Ministry of Culture and Tourism. On the way to the shrine, not far from the entrance is a key hole shaped cistern. Theres also a banner explaining why the site is believed to be where Mary spent her final days. Scriptures show that during His crucifixion, Jesus entrusted the care of his mother to St. John, the disciple whom he loved in John 19:25-27 and the author of the book of Revelation. The last time Mary is mentioned in Scripture, she is with the early church praying in the Upper Room in the Book of Acts 1:13-14 ahead of the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit is first poured out on the Church in cloven tongues like as of fire. In the book of Acts, after the death of Jesus and the persecution of Christians intensified, it is shown how His disciples divided the world for the preaching of the Gospel and John was tasked with Asia Minor, now known as Turkey. Some experts suggest that John was martyred and buried in Jerusalem like his brother, James, while others agree that he traveled to Ephesus, taking Mary along with him before he was exiled to the island of Patmos. He would eventually return to Ephesus, where he died and was buried. Turkish officials contend that physical evidence supporting the shrine as the Virgin Marys final resting place are the presence of Johns tomb in Ephesus and the first basilica of the world dedicated to the mother of Jesus. They also point to claims made by descendants of Orthodox Christian villagers in Kirkince. The discovery of the final resting place of the Virgin Mary was inspired by visions of a stigmatized German nun named Catherine Emmerich. In her visions, she described the house in the hills of Ephesus, where she believed she saw Mary spending her last days. View Photos The place was found as described in 1891, and the chapel was rebuilt on foundations said to date back to the first and fourth centuries. Portions of the building also date back to the seventh century, while the last restoration of the chapel was done in 1951. The interior of the building isnt very large. There is a small room to the right upon entering and the rest of it is a large room with an altar that features a large statue of Mary and some interesting artwork. Taking photos or videos inside the secured room is strictly forbidden. There is a gift shop facing the exit of the building where travelers can get souvenirs. The faithful can also collect water from a drinking fountain on the site, which is said to have special healing powers. Next to the fountain is what is known as the wishing wall, where people leave strips of paper or cloth containing their dreams, prayers or wishes, similar to the Western Wall on Temple Mount in Jerusalem but on a smaller scale. Its a compelling experience to visit the site, if only just to think about the idea that the mother of Jesus Christ lived and died in the space where she also worked to spread the Gospel. For more information on visiting this and other sites in Turkey, go to: www.goturkiye.com Archbishop of Uganda welcomes tough anti-homosexuality laws but not death penalty The Archbishop of Uganda has welcomed the passing of stringent new laws against homosexuality in his country but says those found guilty should be given life imprisonment instead of the death penalty. Despite strong condemnation from the UN and Western countries, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni gave his assent to the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 on Monday. Same-sex relations were already illegal in Uganda but under this new law, "aggravated homosexuality" involving sex with a minor, having sex while HIV positive, or of an incestuous nature, is punishable by death. Promoting homosexuality carries a 20-year prison sentence. In a statement, Archbishop Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu said he "welcomes" the work of the president and Ugandan parliament in crafting the Act. "The Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 is good and we are grateful to the President for assenting to it," he said. The Archbishop said that the new Act would offer greater protection to children through "strong anti-grooming measures" and "strong restrictions on promotion", and by not allowing those convicted to work with children. The statement from the Archbishop repeated the Church of Uganda's opposition to the death penalty and said that even though it found "aggravated homosexuality" to be "grievous", it would "continue to recommend life imprisonment instead". The Archbishop also suggested that homosexuality was being forced on Uganda against its will by foreign countries and contended that heterosexual relationships were "the African way" and "the Biblical way". "Homosexuality is currently a challenge in Uganda because it is being forced on us by outside, foreign actors against our will, against our culture, and against our religious beliefs. They disguise themselves as 'human rights activists,' but are corrupting real human rights by adding LGBTQ to their agenda," he said. "Those countries that legalized homosexuality a long time ago have seen a long-time decline in their population growth. In fact, many of those countries are now faced with the problem of negative population growth. Negative population growth leads to the collapse of countries, cultures, civilizations, and economies. "We are grateful the President has assented and signed into law the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023. This ensures that Uganda does not set a legal precedent that will be difficult to overcome in the future. "The LGBTQ-affirming countries have shown us the negative consequences. We thank the President for not surrendering to their threats and for protecting Uganda from their paths of self-destruction." The Act has been widely condemned, including by the UK government, which has said it is "appalled". "Democracy depends on the guarantee of equal rights under law and freedom from discrimination for everyone in society," said government minister Andrew Mitchell. "This legislation undermines the protections and freedoms of all Ugandans enshrined in the Ugandan Constitution. It will increase the risk of violence, discrimination and persecution, will set back the fight against HIV/AIDs, and will damage Uganda's international reputation." The new laws have also been criticised by Christians who take a traditionalist view on marriage and sexuality. John Stevens, National Director of the Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches (FIEC) in the UK, said on Twitter, "As a Christian I couldn't support the harsh criminalisation of homosexuality in Uganda under new laws passed yesterday." He added, "In retrospect criminalisation in [the] UK did not work, did not reduce homosexuality and most conclude it was a mistake as unfair/unnecessary/ineffective." Former Archbishop of Canterbury wants Parliament to debate assisted suicide Former Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Carey, is calling on the British government to allocate time in Parliament for discussing possible legislation around assisted suicide. Challenging the Church of England's current view, Lord Carey said it was important to stop people from suffering against their wishes, and argued that to do so was "profoundly Christian", The Telegraph reports. In a submission to MPs, he said that helping someone in great suffering to die would be an "act of great generosity, kindness and human love". He claimed that legalising assisted suicide would be a reflection of a "compassionate society" and argued that the likes of Oregon, in the US, where it is already legal, show that it can be done successfully. His comments stand in stark contrast to his own denomination, the Church of England, as well as other denominations, Christians and anti-euthanasia groups which have warned of a "slippery slope". Anti-euthanasia campaigners have used the example of Oregon, the Netherlands, Canada and Belgium as reasons why the UK should not change the law. Data by the Oregon Health Authority revealed that in 2022, nearly half of people who died by doctor-assisted suicide did so because they feared being a "burden" on family and friends or caregivers. The most common reasons given for choosing assisted suicide were the increasing inability to participate in life activities (89%), loss of autonomy (86%), and loss of dignity (62%). In Canada, the Netherlands and Belgium, assisted suicide is available for people with mental illness. In the Netherlands and Belgium, terminally ill children can die by assisted suicide. Faith leaders including the former Church of Scotland Moderator, the Rt Rev Iain Greenshields, recently visited the Scottish Parliament where they urged MSPs not to change the law. Rev Greenshields said: "Our opposition to assisted dying is based on our Christian faith, and involves concerns around the principle of assisted dying, around the application of the law in practice, the perception of the value of human lives, and also the effect which any change is likely to have on the provision of care - in particular, on palliative care." It is Well with My Soul: a new musical This November marks 150 years since the sinking of the Ville du Havre, a French ocean liner, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The ship disappeared beneath the waves in just 12 minutes and 226 passengers were lost. One who was pulled from the water into a passing lifeboat was Anna Spafford, wife of Chicago lawyer and preacher Horatio Spafford. Their four daughters tragically perished in the sinking and Anna famously telegraphed her husband the words, "Saved alone." In the aftermath of the tragedy, Horatio penned the words to the beloved hymn, "It is Well with My Soul," with music by Philip Bliss: When peace like a river, attendeth my way When sorrows like sea billows roll Whatever my lot, Thou hadst taught me to say "It is well, it is well with my soul" In April 2020, during the first lockdown, I started writing a new musical (as you do!). I had wanted to write one for a while, as I enjoy both writing and musicals, but was waiting for the right story to 'grab me'. I had heard the story of Horatio and Anna Spafford before but around the time of writing, I also came upon the story of Philip and Lucy Bliss. Philip was a prominent hymn-writer in the decades following the US Civil War and an associate of preacher and philanthropist DL Moody. Their story of faith in the midst of suffering was no less tragic than the Spaffords'. Certainly, in the UK, Philip's hymns have been all but forgotten. So, I set out to tell the story of those behind this beautiful and timeless hymn. Set mainly in Chicago in the 1860s and 1870s, the musical explores the central themes of deep, authentic faith in the face of tragedy and suffering, along with staying true to what God has put you on this earth to do, despite the temptations to settle for less than God's best. The production features several original hymns by Philip Bliss, set alongside new original songs, and is directed by David Robinson of Searchlight Theatre Company, formerly Artistic Director of Saltmine Theatre Company. I finished a first draft of the script after a writing retreat at the end of August last year. We did a couple of read-throughs on Zoom with actors and friends and the script went through some fairly significant rewrites. Broadway legend Stephen Sondheim once said, "Musicals aren't written, they're rewritten." I have learned the truth of these words over the last twelve months. The cast had a rehearsal and workshop day back in February and, though the actors are from different parts of England, we've made good use of Zoom to rehearse in the lead-up to our intensive, in-person rehearsals in the West Midlands. In just a few days, a talented cast of eight professional actors and two technicians will embark on a short world premiere tour, with the musical being produced by evangelistic ministry Kerygma 180, who I have the pleasure of working for. We are bringing the story of the Blisses and the Spaffords to Dudley, London, and Witney. We've also been able to record an original cast album of the songs which will be made available on all streaming platforms in the next few months. Our vision for this musical is simple: to communicate the Good News of Jesus in a creative way that is accessible to people and can be used as a Gospel event for Christians to bring along a friend who wouldn't normally come to church. We hope these performances can be an encouragement to many! Christianity has a long and rich heritage of using the arts to communicate the Gospel message. Our prayer is that the Lord will use this new musical to bring Him much glory and to beckon people into His Kingdom. Please pray for us as we prepare to bring "It is Well with My Soul" to the stage. Tickets are selling well and one of the performances has already sold out. For more information, and to book your tickets to come and see one of the performances, please visit www.itiswellmusical.com Performance dates: Thursday 1 June Dormston Mill Theatre, Dudley Friday 2 June The Arts Centre, Hounslow Saturday 3 June The Chelsea Theatre, London Sunday 4 June The Corn Exchange, Witney Gareth Hides is writer/producer of the musical, "It is Well With My Soul". Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @itiswellmusical In this photo taken Tuesday, May 30, and released by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China, China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang, right, poses for photos with Tesla CEO Elon Musk in Beijing. AP-Yonhap Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Chinese Industry Minister Jin Zhuanglong held talks on "new energy vehicles" Wednesday, Beijing said. The two "exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent connected vehicles", China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said in a readout on its website. It did not share further details. Tesla representatives did not respond to AFP requests for further information on Musk's itinerary. Musk arrived in Beijing Tuesday on his first trip to China in more than three years. China is the world's biggest electric vehicle market and Tesla announced in April it would build a second massive factory in Shanghai. That factory will be Tesla's second plant in Shanghai after Gigafactory, which broke ground in 2019. In a meeting with Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang on Tuesday, Musk said he was "willing to continue to expand its business in China", according to a foreign ministry readout. He also expressed his opposition to an economic "decoupling" between China and the United States, Beijing said. Musk's extensive business ties to China have raised eyebrows in Washington, with President Joe Biden saying in November that the executive's links to foreign countries were "worthy" of scrutiny. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday that the country welcomed visits by international executives "to better understand China and promote mutually beneficial cooperation". (AFP) President Joe Biden meets with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy of Calif., to discuss the debt limit in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, May 22. AP-Yonhap Hard-fought to the end, the debt ceiling and budget cuts package is heading toward a crucial U.S. House vote as President Joe Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy assemble a coalition of centrist Democrats and Republicans to push it to passage over fierce blowback from conservatives and some progressive dissent. Biden is sending top White House officials to meet early Wednesday at the Capitol to shore up support ahead of voting. McCarthy is working furiously to sell skeptical fellow Republicans, even fending off challenges to his leadership, in the rush to avert a potentially disastrous U.S. default. Despite deep disappointment from right-flank Republicans that the compromise falls short of the spending cuts they demanded, McCarthy insisted he would have the votes needed to ensure approval. "We're going to pass the bill," McCarthy said as he exited a lengthy late Tuesday night meeting at the Capitol. Quick approval by the House and later in the week the Senate would ensure government checks will continue to go out to Social Security recipients, veterans and others, and prevent financial upheaval at home and abroad. Next Monday is when Treasury has said the U.S. would run short of money to pay its debts, risking an economically dangerous default. The package leaves few lawmakers fully satisfied, but Biden and McCarthy are counting on pulling majority support from the political center, a rarity in divided Washington, testing the leadership of the president and the Republican speaker. Overall, the 99-page bill restricts spending for the next two years, suspends the debt ceiling into January 2025 and changes policies, including new work requirements for older Americans receiving food aid and greenlighting a controversial Appalachian natural gas line that many Democrats oppose. President Joe Biden speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, May 28. AP-Yonhap For more than two hours late Tuesday as aides wheeled in pizza at the Capitol, McCarthy walked Republicans through the details, fielded questions and encouraged them not to lose sight of the bill's budget savings. The speaker faced a sometimes tough crowd. Leaders of the hard-right House Freedom Caucus spent the day lambasting the compromise as falling well short of the spending cuts they demand, and they vowed to try to halt passage by Congress. "This deal fails, fails completely," Rep. Scott Perry, R-Pa., the chairman of the Freedom Caucus, said earlier in the day, flanked by others outside the Capitol. "We will do everything in our power to stop it." A much larger conservative faction, the Republican Study Committee, declined to take a position. Even rank-and-file centrist conservatives were not sure, leaving McCarthy desperately hunting for votes. Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., said after the "healthy debate" late into the night she was still a no. Ominously, the conservatives warned of potentially trying to oust McCarthy over the compromise. "There's going to be a reckoning," said Rep. Chip Roy of Texas. Biden was speaking directly to lawmakers, making more than 100 one-on-one calls, the White House said. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said the spending restrictions in the package would reduce deficits by $1.5 trillion over the decade, a top goal for the Republicans trying to curb the debt load. McCarthy told lawmakers that number was higher if the two-year spending caps were extended, which is no guarantee. But in a surprise that could further erode Republican support, the GOP's drive to impose work requirements on older Americans receiving food stamps ends up boosting spending by $2.1 billion over the time period. That's because the final deal exempted veterans and homeless people, expanding the food stamp rolls by some 78,000 people monthly, the CBO said. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said it was up to McCarthy to turn out votes from some two-thirds of the Republican majority, a high bar the speaker may not be able to reach. Some 218 votes are needed for passage in the 435-member House. Still, Jeffries said the Democrats would do their part to avoid failure. Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., walks to the House chamber at Capitol Hill in Washington, May 30. AP-Yonhap With the rise of generative AI, it was inevitable that it would become an unofficial subtheme of CSOs Future of Cybersecurity Summit. And yet it still very much fits in with the events official theme: smart choices in a fast-changing world. Few things are changing as much as GenAI as a tool for creating content, automating customer service, serving as a virtual assistant, and providing workplace collaboration tools. We knew AI was a hot topic when we booked our opening keynote speaker, Ann Marie Sastry, a tech investor and CEO of the AI company Amesite, earlier this spring. Since then, the applications of the technology have exploded. More importantly for our CSO audience, the security aspects have also risen to the forefront. Companies have learned from the mistakes of others like when Samsung engineers unwittingly uploaded source code to ChatGPT and preventative measures such as Apples ban on employee use of the tool. Attendees will have a chance to hear from Sastry as well as ask questions in a live discussion. The new and still evolving world of hybrid work has created a fresh set of challenges for IT leaders who are tasked with ensuring that employees have the tools to get their work done productively and securely, regardless of their location. CIO recently gathered a group of IT executives from a broad range of enterprises for a discussion on hybrid work and how work models continue to change as the Covid pandemic winds down. Attendees included IT leaders from organizations ranging from local colleges and government municipalities to multinational finance and technology companies. The impact of Covid on attendees organizations varied widely, from educational institutions that adopted remote learning for all but a few laboratory-based courses, to enterprise organizations that significantly reduced their office footprint since their workforce had largely shifted to remote work, often with the assistance of a stipend to offset the cost of home computing and networking systems. One positive result of the shift to remote and hybrid work models, mentioned by several executives, is the ability to recruit employees from beyond traditional office-centric geographies. Two camps of employees The discussion then shifted to ways the end of the pandemic has affected the workforce. For the most part, executives now divide their employees into two camps: Task workers who are more than happy to remain at home, and collaborators who want to return to the office setting at least partially to facilitate creative and collaborative processes. Challenges arise when managers and employees cant agree on which arrangement works best. Many executives want to bring managers and employees back to the office setting to restore a more collaborative culture. But many IT leaders are discovering that some employees need to be cajoled back to the office with new incentives, including upscale coffee and baristas, company-provided food and snacks, and other perks formerly associated only with Silicon Valley startups. Some employees who have become accustomed to working from home dread returning to offices with open floor plans, worried about how the additional noise and other distractions will impact their work. Others point out that reintroducing a commute is tantamount to lengthening their work week. However, with stipends ending and employers beckoning, many at least grudgingly are coming back to the office for one or more days each week. A new set of return-to-office challenges Some enterprises are allowing teams within the organization to decide whether to continue to work from home or come back to the office for a few days a week. But the transition is creating a new set of challenges: Since many organizations reduced their office real estate footprint during the pandemic, scheduling problems now crop up when multiple teams are doing in-office days simultaneously and vying for space and resources such as meeting rooms and videoconferencing equipment. The rise of this hoteling concept can create new headaches for operations and IT teams. One constant among the attendees is the technology gap increasingly associated with a hybrid or remote workforce. Employees returning to the workplace are discovering that it is no longer a plug-and-play environment. Downsizing, moving, and years of work-at-home technology often lead to frustrating searches for the right cable to connect, the right power adapter, and proper training for the new audioconferencing bridge that they never learned how to use. For those continuing to work at home, ensuring the security of remote devices used to access corporate resources remain a challenge for both IT and security professionals, while frustrating employees. IT leaders continue to seek the ability to deliver an equitable user experience for all employees, regardless of where they are working, what device theyre using, how they are connecting, and what application they need to access. Scaling the hybrid workplace with DaaS Attendees agreed that going forward, organizations must take user personas into account when optimizing hybrid work strategies. One approach thats gaining some momentum is a device-as-a-service (DaaS) subscription model. This approach enables the IT organization to provide a broad range of devices and comprehensive services matched to individual needs based on personas, powered by predictive analytics and automation to provide seamless experience, irrespective of an individuals location. Another advantage of DaaS being as an all-inclusive package is that it comes with its own cybersecurity toolkit, preconfigured with all the necessary defenses required to protect individual devices. An extra security advantage that emerges from UEM integration with DaaS systems is the remote data wipe option, which takes place when devices are lost or stolen and prevents sensitive information from being leaked. Another important aspect is to include provisioning of network services, to help ensure employees have consistent, robust connectivity. Participants discussed the emergence of new 5G technologies as a connectivity option for at-home employees, either as a backup to fiber or cable or increasingly as a primary network. As to whether organizations will ever see a return to full-time, office-based work, IT leaders believe that the ship has sailed and are adjusting their strategies accordingly for the long term. For some, this will involve technological changes at the workplace and at home. Learn more about how to embrace new ways of working. In this image from video provided by the U.S. Navy, a Chinese J-16 fighter flies aggressively close to a U.S. RC-135 aircraft flying in international airspace over the South China Sea, May 26. AP-Yonhap Beijing responded Wednesday to complaints from the United States about a Chinese fighter jet's dangerous interception of an American Air Force reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the South China Sea by demanding an end to such flights. The incident adds to military, diplomatic and economic tensions between the sides over U.S. support for self-governing Taiwan, China's refusal to engage in dialogue between their armed forces and Beijing's flying of a suspected spy balloon over the U.S. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters at a daily briefing Wednesday that China would keep taking measures it deems necessary to safeguard its sovereignty. "The U.S. should immediately stop these dangerous provocations," Mao said. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command called the Chinese plane's actions an "unnecessarily aggressive maneuver," adding to complaints that China's military has become significantly more aggressive over the past five years, intercepting U.S. aircraft and ships in the region. China says it owns the South China Sea virtually in its entirety, a claim not recognized internationally and directly challenged by nations along its coast including the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia. In a statement Tuesday, the U.S. military said the pilot of the Chinese J-16 fighter jet flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135 conducting routine operations in international airspace last Friday. Military-to-military contacts between the sides have all but evaporated in recent years amid a historic decline in governmental relations, even as trade and personal exchanges remain strong. Further dampening prospects for a reduction in tensions, China said its defense chief will not meet with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when the two men attend a security conference in Singapore over the weekend. Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. China has said the U.S. is entirely responsible for the breakdown in communications, but has not publicly given a reason. With its People's Liberation Army as the world's largest standing military, which answers directly to the ruling Communist Party, China frequently challenges military aircraft from the U.S. and its allies in the South and East China Seas, and the Taiwan Strait connecting the two. Such behavior led to a 2001 in-air collision between a Chinese fighter and U.S. Navy surveillance plane in which the Chinese plane was lost and pilot killed. In Tuesday's statement, the Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to "fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows," and expects all other countries to do the same. (AP) Accessibility Laws and Standards Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act Cisco complies with accessibility laws and strives to supply end-user devices that conform to and support the U.S. Access Board's standards as referenced in Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act Cisco employs common accessibility features in its user devices, documents, and services, and has tested and achieved compatibility with third-party assistive devices. Ciscos networks are compatible with common analog devices from the network core to the individual user. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Cisco complies with the ADA by enabling accessibility and implementing reasonable accommodation in public areas and in its own workplace. 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA) The CVAA is divided into two broad titles or sections. Title I addresses communications access to make products and services using broadband fully accessible to people with disabilities. Title II breaks new ground to make it easier for people with disabilities to view video programming on television and the Internet. Cisco works to make its products covered by the CVAA accessible. Ontario Reg. 191/11: Integrated Accessibility Standards (IAS) This IAS implements the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. It requires Ontario companies to have an accessibility plan and standards regarding information, communication, and customer service to ensure they provide equal access to goods, services, and facilities to those in Ontario with disabilities as those without disabilities. It also includes accessibility standards regarding employment. This regulation does not obligate products (hardware, software, services) to be accessible. In support of this regulation: Cisco has an Ontario accessibility plan and policy. Cisco will make available information about this accessibility plan and policy as well its publicly available information in an accessible format on request. Contact Cisco Accessibility. Contact Cisco Accessibility with feedback about how Cisco provides information and access to its products, services, or facilities to persons in Ontario with disabilities. Cisco will respond to your request as soon as possible on receipt. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Cisco adopts the WCAG 2.0 Level A & AA requirements as best practices for development, testing and overall conformance for the accessibility of Cisco web-based (software, SaaS and cloud based) products. Cisco is now working towards WCAG 2.1 Level A and AA requirements and began rolling out product testing aligned to this standard starting December 2020. The test results feed into Ciscos development work across business units to improve WCAG Level A and AA conformance. This is an ongoing cycle and will continue as the standard evolves. Standards Ciscos accessibility initiatives are based soundly on public standards, including those issued by the U.S. Access Board, and on guidelines, including those published by the international World Wide Web Consortium. Cisco also contributes to accessibility standards and guidelines created by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). Centrul de Drept al Avocatilor (CDA) is seeking proposals from qualified web design and development companies with a minimum of 6 years of experience to create a dynamic web platform for CDA - Centrul de Drept al Avocatilor. The purpose of this project is to develop a visually appealing and user-friendly website based on PHP, WordPress, and Elementor. The website will consist of approximately 25-35 pages and will need to be available in multiple languages (at least 4, RO, EN, RU, UA). The current website - www.cda.md has to be completely revamped, both from an aesthetical standpoint, contentwise, technology and user experience, to enhance and transmit a clearer and easier to access information to its visitors. The chosen web design and development company will be responsible for the following: Design and development of a professional website for Centrul de Drept al Avocatilor. Integration of PHP, WordPress and Elementor to meet the desired functionality requirements. Implementation of a multilingual feature to support content translation into at least 3 languages. Mobile responsive Ongoing support and maintenance on a monthly basis. The project will be divided into four phases, with each phase having specific deliverables and milestones. The estimated timeline for the project is as follows: Phase 1: Planning and Design Estimated Start Date: June 19 th , 2023 , 2023 Estimated Completion Date: July 7st, 2023 Phase 2: Development and Implementation Estimated Start Date: June 25 th , 2023 , 2023 Estimated Completion Date: August 20th, 2023 Phase 3: Content Integration and Testing Estimated Start Date: August 25 th , 2023 , 2023 Estimated Completion Date: September 10th, 2023 Phase 4: Deployment and Support Estimated Start Date: September 10 th , 2023 , 2023 Estimated Completion Date: September 15th, 2023 Phase 5: Ongoing on demand Estimated Start Date: September 15 th , 2023 , 2023 Estimated Completion Date: December 23rd, 2023 The final phase, including ongoing support and maintenance, should be completed no later than December 24th, 2023. Interested companies are requested to submit a detailed proposal addressing the following: Company profile and relevant experience, including a minimum of 6 years of web design and development experience. Communication through Asana, Slack and Email Description of the proposed approach, methodologies, and technologies to be used. Detailed breakdown of the project phases, deliverables, timelines, and costs. Testimonials or references from similar clients in the past, particularly foreign institutions working in the field of democracy and human rights. Experience working on projects related to democracy and human rights, including specific examples and outcomes. Location of the team, ensuring the team is based in Moldova. Monthly support and maintenance costs beyond the completion of the project. Any additional information or suggestions to enhance the project. Technical and financial offer must be submitted separately by June 15th, in electronic format (PDF) or on paper in 2 separate emails or envelopes to law-center@cda.md or CDA office, Chisinau, str. Vlaicu Pircalab 8 : Contact pearson Dan Popovici : Dan.Popovici@cda.md ,+37379904552 To create a modern, professional and visually appealing website that accurately reflects our institutions identity and values To be more authentic and genuine by using photos of our staff and offices instead of generic stock images To improve the user experience and make it easy for visitors to find the information they need, based on the four user and focus type (refugees, stateless persons, Moldovan citizenship, lawyers) To increase traffic to the website and generate leads for our business To incorporate SEO best practices and ensure the website is optimized for search engines To make the website mobile-friendly and responsive to different screen sizes To ensure the website is secure and adheres to all relevant web standards and regulations Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria: Experience and expertise in web design and development (25%) Methodology and proposed approach (15%) Demonstrated ability to deliver projects on time and within budget (15%) Experience working with foreign institutions in the field of democracy and human rights (20%) Cost-effectiveness and value for money (15%) Testimonials and references from previous clients (10%) The evaluation will be conducted by a review committee appointed by Centrul de Drept al Avocatilor (CDA), and their decision will be based on a holistic assessment of all the evaluation criteria. The committee reserves the right to select the tender winner based on the most advantageous proposal, considering both the budget proposal and other evaluation criteria. The applicant is required to submit a detailed budget proposal as part of their proposal submission. The budget should clearly outline the estimated costs for each phase of the project, as specified in Section 4 of the Request for Proposal (RFP). The applicant is encouraged to provide a comprehensive breakdown of expenses related to design, development, implementation, content integration, testing, and ongoing support and maintenance. The budget proposal should be presented in a format that allows for easy understanding and evaluation of the financial aspects of the project. The current website structure. To be edited to the best possible option. Centrul de Drept al Avocatilor (CDA) reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received, to negotiate with any qualified source, or to cancel this RFP, in part or in its entirety, if it is in the best interest of the organization to do so. Just after 2pm on Monday, May 1, Jordan Neely, a thirty-year-old who was experiencing homelessness and known for his subway dancing and impersonations of Michael Jackson, stepped onto an F train at the Second Avenue station in Manhattan. He was heard complaining that he was hungry, thirsty, and fed up. Neely shouted that he did not care if he went to jail or died, and threw a sweater on the floor. As the train shuttled northward, Daniel Penny, a fellow passenger and twenty-four-year-old former Marine, grabbed Neely in a choke hold, killing him. Two days later, New York Citys medical examiner said that Neely was choked to death and ruled the incident a homicide. By then the killing had already become a flash point in a national reckoning over how society treats those experiencing homelessness, dividing peopleoften along political linesover whose deaths matter, the ethics of vigilantism, and the failures of under-resourced and uncoordinated mental health and shelter systems. Protests followed; demonstrators held signs that read Being homeless is not a crime. In the right-wing media, by contrast, talking heads lionized Penny. On May 12, Penny was charged with second-degree manslaughter. He has said that he never intended to harm Neely and intends to fight the charges. When the news of Neelys death broke, Andy Newman, a New York Times metro reporter who covers social services and poverty in New York City, was closing out another big story. For seven months, on and off, he had shadowed the intensive mobile treatment teams that help some of the citys most vulnerable people with complex homelessness cases, telling the story of a woman he referred to as M. It was just an incredible gift to have that access, Newman told me recently. They didnt try to sanitize anything. He then covered the Neely story, in an article headlined How two mens disparate paths crossed in a killing on the F train. He has since covered other developments in the case. Last week, I spoke with Newman about his work on homelessness, Neelys homicide, and the failure of institutions to catch people in distress. The conversation has been edited for length and clarity. JB: Youve been covering social services and poverty in New York for years. And then, after Jordan Neelys homicide, everyone seems to be on the beat. Whats it like to be covering a topic for so long and then suddenly the whole media seems interested? Sign up for CJR 's daily email AN: Thats sort of the nature of this beat. Its really busy, and theres just a million things happening. Unfortunately, every so often, theres some really horrible thing that happens that includes violence, mental illness, and a homeless person in New York City. So Im always in the background working on other longer-term stories about that subject and then, when some news breaks, I get recruited to join the coverage on that. And broadly how have you found the coverage in recent weeks? Are there any things youve noticed that could have been done better by people who might not have that depth of context that youve built up? One of the reasons that the intersection of homelessness and mental illness is so interesting and vexing to write about is that the solutions to it are never easy or simple. I think theres a background feeling or assumption that a lot of readers have that Jeez, if we could just get these people to take their meds, and or just lock them away in a long-term psychiatric institution, then everything would be fine. But what you find when youre reporting on this stuff is that there are so many barriers to the system working correctly, even before you get into the whole ethical question of whether its okay to lock someone away for a long time. Theres a tendency in the coverage for it to villainize someone, or to present them as a victim, depending on which boxes they check. And its never that simple. You can only figure out at least some of the reasons that something terrible has happened once you actually dig into the details and the history, and that can be hard to do. The journalist Errol Lewis wrote in New York magazine recently that Jordan Neely was already dead. He continued: Modern America, including New York, designates some categories of people as socially deadpart of an underclass that is subject to exclusion, indifference, or even outright hatred and violence. To be Black, destitute, homeless, and mentally ill in our city is to be one of those outsiders, existing in a kind of internal exile from societys circle of care and concern. What do you make of those words? Based on what Ive observed on the streets and subways, just going about my life as a regular New Yorker, I think its a pretty accurate assessment. Its unfortunately the case that there are people who the system seems to have a harder time helping, for just so many different reasons. One of the things that struck me was that Jordan Neely had a long history of brushing up against institutions but then slipping through the net. Hed gone to the Bowery Residents Committee; hed gone to Bellevue Hospital; hed been brought to shelters five times in 2020 by the Citywide Mobile Crisis Outreach Team; hed been incarcerated. What do you think that says about the potential failure of these institutions? Case after case seems to keep saying that coordination between all these different aid agencies and systems [is not working]. Its just really hard to get people to cooperate and to share information in real time. Its something that Mayor Eric Adams obviously gets a lot of criticism for: a lot of the ways hes dealing with homelessness. But hes trying to figure out ways to coordinate and make all the systems work together better. Adams has been in office for almost eighteen months now, so we can get a sketch of how his policies are playing out. How has he attempted to tackle homelessness and mental illness differently from his predecessors? I have a really hard time coming up with an intelligent-sounding answer to that one off the top of my head. Is that because hes not doing things differently? The depressing thing about covering this stuff is that if you just look back at stories through the years, every single mayor has tried ways to fix this problem and to somehow prevent people who are severely mentally ill and maybe prone to violence from doing something terrible to other people or to themselves. And every mayor and every governor comes in with a bunch of plans and programs. And we write these stories about these plans and programs. And for one reason or another, it just always happens again. Its something that defies easy fixing. There were protests after Jordan Neelys homicide, people shouting Housing is a human right and blocking the subway tracks. Some observers have made the comparison with the aftermath of George Floyds murder in 2020. What do you make of these demonstrationscould they be the start of a movement? Theyve already kind of died down, so I would say it doesnt seem like it to me. The Jordan Neely case is such a horrific situation that its going to be something that people care about and follow the outcome of the criminal trial. Hes not going to be forgotten. It already seems like this is a case that people are going to be thinking about in years to come, because it raises these questions of, like, everything that people in New York are worrying about, with regard to sort of unhinged-seeming people in the subway system, but then also vigilantism and what is okay and what is not okay. It just seems to crystallize a lot of peoples fears and concerns, but as far as what happens in the future as a result of Jordan Neelys death? I dont know. In 1964, a woman named Kitty Genovese was stabbed to death in New York. The Times reported that dozens of witnesses ignored her cries for help. That subsequently turned out not to be true, with the Times admitting its reporting was flawed. But the idea that the story fedof uncaring New Yorkers ignoring the pain of othershas proved to be an enduring one, and its being resurrected now. How do you think that fits in here? Its really hard to imagine, for me anyway, what it would have been like to have been on that train. Its very easy to look back and say, Oh, these people should have stopped Daniel Penny from choking Jordan Neely. And you can hear on the video there are people saying, Hey, youre gonna kill him, dont do that. I imagine the whole thing must have seemed so completely surreal. Because Ive never witnessed somebody being killed in front of my eyes, I cant even imagine what it would be like to have been on that train, watching that happen. After Jordan Neelys death, there were some headlines that got a fair amount of criticism, including in the Times, which ran with Man dies on subway after another rider places him in chokehold. I wanted to ask you what you thought about frustrations over that passive framing that we sometimes see. Whats passive about somebody else placing somebody in a choke hold? I mean, he died after being placed in a choke hold. As opposed to he was killed? I mean, what is the objection to that headline? I dont get it. As I understand it, its a very passive way of phrasing someone who has potentially been subjected to homicide or murder. So I wanted to ask your thoughts about that. Is that the story from before the medical examiner declared it a homicide? Thats the first-day story? Right, thats the first-day story. I mean, if there hasnt been a homicide findingthe homicide finding is what allows you to say that the choke hold caused the death. We are taught to be very cautious about making causative statements. I know that sounds pretty obvious in retrospect, that he did die because he was choked. But we are taught, and our headline writers are taught, to try never to go beyond what has been officially confirmed, unless weve confirmed it ourselves. So to me, I dont have a problem. The very first day, all we know is that a) he was placed in a choke hold, and b) he died. That headline doesnt bother me. Im sure there are other headlines that might. Finally, youve likened your reporting to making the invisible visible. Can you say more about that philosophy and how you think about it? Ive been at the Times for twenty-five years, and Ive been on the metro desk that whole time. Ive never really tried to do anything else, because I feel like New York is a place where there are a million peoples stories that are crying out to be told. All I have always wanted to do is find ways to tell stories about peoples lives, preferably people who are not already famous or public figures or anything like that, but just to allow readers to understand the whole range of humanity that is embodied in the city. One day I was walking down the street, and I found myself looking into the face of every person that I passed, and wondering, Gosh, I wonder how this person makes a living. How are they getting by? Because I know that more than half of the population of the city is really living paycheck to paycheck. So I thought itd be really interesting to write about jobs that people do, survival jobs. I know from having done this job for a long time that almost everybody, if you find a way to help them tell their story, has something to offer thatll open peoples eyes and make them say, Oh, shit, so thats what its like. Other notable stories: For CJR, Danny Funt profiled Defector , an outletfounded by exiles from Deadspin , which all but imploded in 2019that calls itself the last good website. From the start, the group felt it wasnt worth pursuing anything short of a journalists utopia, Funt writes. Every aspect of the businessfrom paying freelancers half of their rate after receiving a first draft to letting writers and podcasters own their intellectual propertywould form a blueprint for a publication both ethical and profitable. The site would be worker-owned, with everyone getting an equitable stake. The hours would be humane. They chose a name, Defector , that was a wink at their origin story. With hurricane season in the US approaching, Evlondo Cooper, of Media Matters for America, called on national TV news shows to improve their coverage of extreme weather as a year-round, global phenomenon . Cooper notes that recent wildfires in Canada and record-breaking heat waves in Asia have failed to cut through on US TV, and that a recent heat wave in the Pacific Northwest didnt fare much better: From May 1315, broadcast and cable news shows aired a combined 9 minutes of coverage about the heat wave, and none of them mentioned climate change. Politico s Kyle Cheney and Josh Gerstein report on the latest developments in a court case brought by Yanping Chen , a Chinese American scientist who was investigatedbut not chargedin a federal counterintelligence probe and is now trying to force Fox News and Catherine Herridge, a former Fox reporter, to reveal the sources of stories they published about the investigation. Fox and Herridge are being represented in the case by a former top lawyer in Trumps White House. Hot Pod s Amrita Khalid spoke with the founders of Good Tape , a forthcoming semiannual print magazine that will aim to tell untold stories within the podcast industry. Podcasting has such a profound impact in peoples livesand its not always positive, Dane Cardiel, the publisher, told Khalid. Id love to give a platform to these stories we arent seeing represented in mainstream media. And for Esquire , Ben Mack profiled the Antarctic Sun , Antarcticas longest-running newspaper . Extreme remoteness presents unique challenges to newsgathering, Mack writes. There are the banal obstacles, like often painfully slow Internet speeds. Then there are the uncommon dangers. Untimely deaths are rare these days, but frostbite has been known to claim a few fingers or toes. ICYMI: Circles within circles in coverage of the debt ceiling Jem Bartholomew is a Reporting Fellow at the Tow Center for Digital Journalism. Jems work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, The Economist, Time, New York magazine, and others. In 2019, he was named Best Newcomer in the State Street press awards. DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) Five people remain unaccounted for, including two people whose remains may be in a pile of rubble at the site of a partially collapsed apartment building, officials of the city of Davenport, Iowa, said Tuesday. Mayor Mike Matson confirmed the numbers at a news conference following criticism that the city was moving too quickly toward demolishing the building before making sure that no one is still inside. Protests erupted after a woman was rescued Monday night, hours after the city ordered the demolition to begin as early as Tuesday. This could be a place of rest for some of the unaccounted, Matson said. The city is trying to determine exactly how to bring down what remains of the building in a way that accounts for the dignity of people who may have been killed, he said. A family member of one of the missing people also spoke, pleading with people to understand that authorities want to bring the remains of the six-story building down in a controlled way without dumping more material onto the rubble pile. I plead with community to let the city do their job, the woman said. The building is unstable and continues to worsen as time progresses, Fire Marshal James Morris said. Its the opinion of the structural engineer that any additional search operations in the area of that pile of debris should be avoided due to potential collapse. We are currently evaluating the risk assessment of where we can go back into that building to do this other search. Were very sympathetic to the possibility that theres two people still left inside, Morris said as he fought back tears. Protesters carried signs Tuesday morning near the building site, saying Find Them First and Who is in the Rubble? Some used a megaphone to shout out names of building residents. The building had 53 tenants in about 80 units, the police chief said. City officials said rescue crews escorted 12 people from the building shortly after a middle section collapsed at about 5 p.m. Sunday, and rescued several others, including one person who was taken to safety overnight Sunday. There was a lot of screams, a lot of cries, a lot of people saying Help! when the building came down, Tadd Mashovec, a resident of the building, told KCCI-TV. But that did not last, and two or three minutes, and then the whole area was silent. By Monday morning, Fire Chief Michael Carlsten said no known individuals are trapped. The city then issued a statement saying that the owner had been served with a demolition order and the process would begin Tuesday morning. The discovery of another survivor Monday evening, rescued by ladder truck from a fourth-floor window, prompted the city to reevaluate, they said. We had no indications from any of the responders that we had, any of the canines, any of the tools at the time that there was anyone else left alive in the building, Morris said. The building remains unstable, shifting, and too dangerous for people to search through the rubble pile until it is carefully brought down, they said. It wasnt clear what immediately caused the collapse, which left a gaping hole in the center of what was once the Davenport Hotel, a building listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. Built in 1907, the brick over steel and concrete structure had been renovated into a mixed-use building with residential and commercial spaces. Work was being done on the buildings exterior at the time of the collapse, said Rich Oswald, the citys director of development and neighborhood services. Reports of falling bricks were part of that work, and the buildings owner had a permit for the project, Oswald said. The fire marshal said Tuesday that the owner had also hired a structural engineer who determined that the building was safe enough to remain occupied during the repairs. Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation activating the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Management Program for the residents left homeless. The property owner was served Monday with a demolition order, and residents were prevented from going back inside to remove their belongings, due to the buildings unstable condition. Authorities confirmed that multiple residents had complained of unmet maintenance problems. Quad-City Times reported nearly 20 permits were filed in 2022, mainly for plumbing or electrical issues, according to the county assessors office. The collapse didnt surprise Schlaan Murray, a former resident, who told The Associated Press that his one-year stay there was a nightmare. Murray, 46, moved into his apartment in February 2022 and almost immediately began having issues the heat and air conditioner didnt work, and there were plumbing problems in the bathroom. Multiple calls to the management company rarely got a response, and when a maintenance person did stop by, they never completely fixed the problems, he said. They would come in and put some caulk on it, he said. But it needed more than that. They didnt fix stuff, they just patched it up. He questions how the building passed inspections. It was horrible, Murray said, adding that he felt the conditions were so bad that he didnt want to bring his children to his apartment. Murray said he moved out a month before his lease was up in March, and still hasnt received his security deposit. Despite deplorable conditions, many residents were like him, he said, struggling to come up with the first and last months rent, plus security deposit, required to move elsewhere. Associated Press contributors include Freida Frisaro in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Trisha Ahmed in Minneapolis, Kathy McCormack in Concord, New Hampshire, and Beatrice Dupuy in New York City. Top photo: Rubble lies in a pile outside The Davenport on Main Street in Davenport, Iowa, on Monday, May 29, 2023. A section of the six-story downtown apartment building collapsed Sunday. (Nikos Frazier/Quad City Times via AP) Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. PARMA, Ohio -- Kristin Harmel is slowly touring Parma. Exactly a year after she and other authors appeared at the Cuyahoga County Public Librarys Parma-Snow branch, the New York Times bestselling author returns to Ohios seventh-largest city for a June 13 program at the Parma-Powers branch. I was there this time last year, she said. We did a Friend in Fiction live event that was so much fun. It was actually my birthday. After the event, we went to the incredible steakhouse (Marble Room Steaks and Raw Bar) in an old converted bank. Its gorgeous. It was the absolute best birthday evening there. I love Cleveland. Its a beautiful downtown, she said. New York Times bestselling authors Mary Kay Andrews, left, and Kristin Harmel in 2022 at the Marble Room in Cleveland. (Photo Courtesy of Kristin Harmel) It turns out Harmel has numerous connections to Northeast Ohio. Not only did she live in Columbus until the age of 10 (I consider myself an Ohio girl), but her paternal ancestors immigrated around the 1900s from Europe to Cleveland. Everybody started off in Cleveland, she said. I know my great-great-grandfather had a haberdashery there. So even going to Marble, the old beautiful bank may have been around during that time period. I might have had my birthday dinner in a place where ... my great-great-grandparents banked 120 years ago. Being back in Cleveland, I felt very connected to that European immigration of my family. More on that connection later. As for her upcoming Parma visit, Harmel is promoting her newest novel, The Paris Daughter. Known for more than a dozen novels -- including The Forest of Vanishing Stars, The Book of Lost Names, The Room on Rue Amelie and The Sweetness of Forgetting -- her new book is a gripping historical novel about two mothers who must make unthinkable choices in the face of the Nazi occupation. It was noted that other than putting characters on the deck of the Titanic, setting a story in 1939 France on the eve of World War II is quite a precarious location. There was pretty much nowhere worse than to put characters the day before World War II begins in this book, she said. Ive written several novels set in World War II France. So coming back to France again in this book felt a little bit like a return home. While the location may be the same, Harmel stressed that the new novels story is very different, centering around a mother and her children. Theres also a modern-day element to The Paris Daughter. I was working on this book when the invasion of Ukraine happened, she said. A lot of the things I talked about in the book are mothers having to make these impossible choices in the midst of a war to keep their children safe. In terms of what its like to live under the threat of constant bombing, those are things were seeing recur again in real time in Ukraine. It was a little bit eerie to be doing the edits to this book as we watched that happening in the present day not that far from us. Author Kristin Harmel returns to Northeast Ohio for a June 13 program at the Cuyahoga County Public Librarys Parma-Powers branch. (John Benson/cleveland.com) Its only apropos then that Harmels visit to Parma will be close to both the Ukrainian and Polish villages. I didnt know that, she said. My fathers side of the family who settled in Cleveland were Polish. Look at you teaching me things I didnt know about my own family. Last year, I had a birthday to celebrate. This time, I have no excuse. I better get on the ground and learn all about Cleveland. Read more news from the Parma Sun Post. RICHMOND HEIGHTS, Ohio -- In its second year back after a hiatus of many years, the citys Memorial Day parade and activities, thanks to a few tweaks, were much more successful than in 2022. We had the parade last year at 9 or 9:30 (a.m.), said Mayor Kim Thomas. Who gets up at 9 oclock to watch a parade? So this year we moved the (parade staging time) to 11 (a.m.) and started the parade at noon. Every corner was packed with people. The parade commenced in the lot of what used to be the General Electric plant, now home to Momentive Performance Materials, 24400 Highland Road. The parade proceeded on Highland Road east to Richmond Heights Community Park, 27285 Highland Road. A member of the Cleveland Police Color Guard Unit exchanges a special handshake with young resident Christopher King. (Photo Courtesy of Casey St. Laurent) We had our ceremony at 10 (a.m., in the park), before the parade, then we had our picnic after the parade, from about 1 to 4 (p.m.), Thomas said. Last year, there werent many people in the park for the picnic, maybe less than 25. This year, we had hundreds. We served them hot dogs and hamburgers and water. We had a DJ and line dancing, so there was a lot going on. Last year, the ceremony was held after the parade and the picnic after the ceremony. The ceremony at the park included a gun salute, a flag raising by the Richmond Heights Fire Department, Thomas placing a wreath at the veterans memorial and two speakers: U.S. Army veteran Reginald Smith and Richmond Heights Police Department Sgt. James McVey, also a U.S. Army veteran. The Shaw High School marching band provided music for the Richmond Heights Memorial Day parade. (Photo Courtesy of Casey St. Laurent) Thomas said this years parade featured more than 100 cars and music, not only from Richmond Heights High School, but also from East Clevelands Shaw High School band. Our parade last year was about a mile long, and this year it was almost two miles long, she said. In addition to Thomas, the parade included participation from District 11 Cuyahoga County Councilwoman Sunny Simon and State Rep. Dan Troy, D-23, of Willowick. Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne attended the picnic. Overall, it was a huge success, Thomas said of the day. Richmond Heights Mayor Kim Thomas and her husband, Danny Thomas, wave to residents during the city's Memorial Day parade. (Photo Courtesy of Casey St. Laurent) Read more from the Sun Messenger. CLEVELAND, Ohio An inmate who escaped from Summit County Sheriffs deputies in Akron Tuesday while being taken to a doctors appointment has been captured by the U.S. Marshals Service, officials said. Jason Lyle Conrad, 39, was captured at approximately 9:40 a.m. Wednesday while trying to flee from officers near Aqueduct Street in Akron. Officers from the U.S. Marshals Service received a tip that Conrad was spotted traveling on a bike near Aqueduct and Market Streets Wednesday morning. Surveillance cameras and an Ohio State Highway Patrol airplane spotted Conrad near Arlington and North Forge Streets. The 39-year-old Akronite was arrested after a brief foot pursuit on the train tracks near North Arlington and East North streets, according to the U.S. Marshals Service. Officers from Akron Police, OSHP, University of Akron and Summa Health assisted in capturing Conrad. Summit County Sheriffs deputies were transporting Conrad to Summa Health, 1 Park West Drive, for a doctors appointment at about 8 a.m. Tuesday when he escaped. Conrad was handcuffed and in a boot for a previous injury. Safety in the communities we serve is one of the most important parts of our jobs, U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott said in a press release. Knowing this fugitive is off the streets makes the city of Akron a safer place and the U.S. Marshals Service will not give up searching until fugitives like this are behind bars. COLUMBUS, Ohio A public transit bus driver has lost his job and is facing criminal charges after he reportedly attacked a 63-year-old passenger, breaking the mans jaw, reports say. Jaleel Palmer, 30, of Columbus, is charged in Franklin County Common Pleas Court with felonious assault, according to court records. Palmer is free after posting a $25,000 bond on May 18, court records show. He has yet to enter a plea. According to WBNS Channel 10, Franklin County Municipal Court records show the incident occurred on April 26. The passenger fell asleep while on a Central Ohio Transit Authority bus and missed his stop, records show. Records show the passenger woke up when Palmer announced the bus had made its final stop. When the passenger asked for directions, Palmer refused to help him, WCMH Channel 4 reports. The two men began arguing and the victim exited the bus, reports say. The passenger began walking and the bus drove a short distance, reports say. The passenger again encountered Palmer, who reportedly was standing outside of the bus, ABC 6 reports. Another argument broke out, but when the passenger started to walk away, Palmer punched the man from behind, breaking the mans jaw and knocking him to the ground, reports say. Palmer is accused of continuing to kick and stomp on the mans head, authorities say. The victim was taken to a hospital after the attack and had to have his jaw wired shut, WBNS reports. COTA tells WCMH that Palmer was immediately suspended after the incident and was fired on May 19. The incident involving a COTA operator on April 26 is inexcusable and does not represent the hundreds of hardworking and courteous transit operators who provide a valuable service to our communities every day, COTA said in a statement to WCMH. The operators employment has been terminated. LONDON The United States and Europe need to create a voluntary code of conduct for artificial intelligence as the developing technology triggers warnings about the risks it poses to humanity amid growing calls for regulation, a European Union official said Wednesday. The voluntary code would be in place while the 27-nation EU works on groundbreaking AI rules that wont take effect for up to three years, European Commission Vice President Margrethe Vestager said at a meeting of the EU-U.S. Trade and Technology Council, which is jointly led by American and European officials. We need accountable artificial intelligence. Generative AI is a complete game changer, Vestager said. A draft version of the code is expected to be drawn up within weeks, The Associated Press reported. Officials will seek feedback from industry players and invite parties to sign up, and they promised very, very soon a final proposal for industry to commit to voluntarily, Vestager said at a news conference after the councils meeting in Sweden. The council has an important role to play in helping establish voluntary codes of conduct that would be open to all like-minded countries, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said. Generative AI systems, such as ChatGPT, have both amazed users with their capability to mimic human responses while stirring fears about the risks they pose. Those fears have set off a global debate about how to control the technology, The AP said. Related story: Addressing AIs threat of human extinction should be a top priority, tech leaders say Scientists and tech leaders warned on Tuesday that mitigating AI risks should be a global priority because its feared that uncontrolled AI could lead to human extinction. In a public statement posted online by the Center for AI Study and signed by hundreds of people, AI industry leaders, academics and celebrities called for prompt discussions about the potential dangers that AI presents. Sam Altman, CEO of ChatGPT maker OpenAI, signed that statement and has suggested that AI should be regulated by a U.S. or international agency. CLEVELAND, Ohio Cleveland City Council on Wednesday approved $10 million for four projects aiming to improve the citys waterfront. The four projects -- Irishtown Bend, expansion of an East Side fishing pier, Euclid Creek Greenway and the Northcoast Connector project -- will receive funding through American Rescue Plan Act dollars. Legislation approving the four projects was approved without any no votes during a City Council meeting. The North Coast Connector project aims to connect downtown Cleveland to the lakefront by creating a land bridge from the downtown mall to the lakefront, improving access to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Cleveland Browns Stadium. The $3 million approved Wednesday would partially fund engineering of the project, which is estimated to cost between $8 million and $10 million, according to city documents. The city says its $3 million contribution is needed to leverage other investment in the project design. Council also approved $1.5 million for design work to improve and expand the East 55th fishing pier. When seeking public comment on how to improve the lakefront, one recurring theme was the need for an improved fishing area, Cleveland City Councilman Anthony Hairston said. The pier improvement is part of the CHEERS project. CHEERS, which stands for Cleveland Harbor Eastern Embayment Resilience Strategy, is a $300 million project designed to improve lakefront access east of the Burke Lakefront Airport. The project plans to do that by reusing dredge material from the Cuyahoga River to expand parks and improve the shoreline. Council approved spending $1.5 million in ARPA funds to design the projects early implementation phase, which will include adding four to six acres of parkland, fixing a break wall and improving fishing areas, according to city documents. The Irishtown Bend project aims to stabilize a hillside in Ohio City and transform it into a 17-acre park. Cleveland City Council approved putting $5 million in ARPA funds toward the project, which has an estimated total cost of $95 million. The citys money will be used for the most immediate need, stabilizing the hillside, which Councilman Kerry McCormack said is slowly collapsing into the river. This has been a long time coming, McCormack said. The Euclid Creek Greenway would carve a two-mile trail from Euclid Creen Parkway to the lakefront. The multi-phase project is a missing link between the citys East Side and the lakefront, said Joyce Pan Huang, Clevelands director of city planning. Council approved $500,000 toward the project which has a total cost of $800,000. The design and engineering phase is expected to go through 2024, as trail routes are not yet finalized Funding for the waterfront projects follow councils recent approval of a North Coast Development Authority, which would be able to raise money by soliciting public or private grants and by levying taxes, cleveland.com reported previously. CLEVELAND, Ohio After serving jailtime and completing probation early, former Newburgh Heights mayor Trevor Elkins is hoping to return to public office. Elkins launched a campaign to be restored as Newburgh Heights mayor in a nearly 3-minute video over the Memorial Holiday weekend. Were at a pivotal moment in the villages history, Elkins opens in the video, posted on his campaigns Facebook page. Because of this, I stand before you today to announce my candidacy for mayor of the community we love. The announcement may come as a surprise to those who remember the terms of his original plea deal barring him from running for any Cuyahoga County elected office until 2028 based on the then- agreed 5-year probation after he admitted to three, misdemeanor campaign finance-related crimes. However, Cuyahoga County Judge Joan Synenberg rejected those terms when imposing a shorter 1-year probation, among other conditions, like 30 days in jail and 200 hours of community service. Elkins satisfied those conditions seven months early and was released from probation in February, court documents show, effectively freeing him to run for office again. I want the voters and residents to understand that I recognize that Ive made a mistake. Ive accepted the consequences of that mistake. Ive paid the consequences of that mistake. Im turning the page on that, Elkins told cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer Tuesday. I wont ever make a campaign finance mistake again. Had he completed the full year of probation, expiring in June, he still would have had time to file petitions to run for mayor by the August deadline. But its a scenario that Special Franklin County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Thomas Vacarro wanted to prevent when he opposed Elkins early release from probation. While Synenberg decided not to adopt their plea deal in full, Vacarro wrote to the court, now presided over by Judge Brian Mooney, Elkins received concessions from the state based on those original terms, including the state agreeing not to pursue felony charges that would have barred him from public office for life. In return, Elkins promised not to run for office in the 2024-2028 term. The state submits if probation is terminated early, the defendant may attempt to pursue an elected office in Cuyahoga County, Vacarro wrote. Elkins announced his candidacy three months later and is expected to officially file within the next two weeks. Cleveland.com reached out to Vacarro for comment. Elkins says those original conditions were void when Synenberg imposed a different sentence, adding some conditions he hadnt agreed to. He met them and is now ready to move on, and he hopes residents are, too. I will take my case to the voters of Newburg Heights, Elkins said. Elkins is hoping a personal apology letter mailed to every Newburgh Heights resident helps. In the postcard-sized mailer, he explains his campaign finance crimes from his perspective: One bank account used for two purposes. That was the violation. Thats it. Its that simple. He was describing how he mixed $134,000 in personal expenses with his regular campaign account, though he repeatedly stresses that he only ever spent his own money on those purchases, not campaign donations. It had nothing to do with anyone elses money, he writes in the mailer. It had nothing to do with my role as mayor or with the Village. The mailer directs readers to a website www.trevorelkins.org/cfvstatement with a more detailed account of the violations, why he believes they came to light and his apology for not knowing the law better. Elkins said he hopes that his letter is not interpreted as deflecting responsibility That campaign finance violation was my responsibility, period. and vowed not to repeat past mistakes. He has hired an attorney to review future campaign finance reports, he said. In the meantime, hes hoping voters give him a second chance, based on the good he said hes done for the community since he was first elected mayor in 2011. Among his successes he named bringing full-time police and fire departments to the community, $30 million in infrastructure investments and economic development, a 32-hour work week, increased home values, lowered taxes the list goes on. Hes also opening a new business himself, 3 Girls Pizza. In the same period, he also was highly criticized for supporting speed cameras. A recent cleveland.com analysis found Newburgh Heights is one of five suburbs still profiting tens of thousands to over a million dollars off the cameras, despite a 2019 state law meant to limit how much communities can earn. The village issued 451 tickets in 2020. Its unclear if Elkins will face a challenger in the fall. Gigi Traore has filled the seat since Elkins was forced to resign last year, becoming Newburgh Heights first African-American mayor, but its not known whether shell run to keep it. She previously served as council president. Her short tenure also has not been without issue. She faced some criticism last year after proposing the community use $219,000 in COVID relief funds to improve the Washington Dog Park, which two council members considered an error in judgement, given more pressing needs. They asked Cuyahoga County Council to invest the money in the villages home maintenance program, instead. Cleveland.com reached out to Traore for comment. Former head of Serbia's state security service Jovica Stanisic appears in court at the UN International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals in The Hague, Netherlands, Wednesday. AP-Yonhap U.N. appeals judges on Wednesday significantly expanded the convictions of two allies of late Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic, holding them responsible for involvement in crimes across Bosnia and in one town in Croatia as members of a joint criminal plan to drive out non-Serbs from the areas during the Balkan wars. The appeals chamber at the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals overturned their acquittals of involvement in the criminal plan and raised the sentences of Jovica Stanisic and Franko Simatovic from 12 to 15 years. Presiding Judge Graciela Gatti Santana said the two men, both now in their 70s, "shared the intent to further the common criminal purpose to forcibly and permanently remove the majority of non-Serbs from large areas of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina through the commission of the crimes charged in the indictment." The appeals ruling brings to an end the longest-running war crimes prosecution dating back to the Balkan wars of the early 1990s. Milosevic was put on trial for his alleged involvement in fomenting the bloody conflicts that erupted as Yugoslavia crumbled but he died in his cell in 2006 before verdicts could be reached. The mechanism's chief prosecutor, Serge Brammertz, hailed what he called a "really important" ruling. "This is the only decision we have with officials from Belgrade convicted as part of the joint criminal enterprise," he said. Stanisic was in court for the hearing, while Simatovic watched by video link from a U.N. detention unit. Gatti Santana called the appeals ruling a "milestone" for the court which deals with cases left over from the now-defunct U.N. war crimes courts for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda as it was the final case dealing with war crimes from the wars that erupted in the early 1990s as Yugoslavia crumbled. Stanisic and Simatovic were convicted two years ago of aiding and abetting murder and other crimes committed by Serb paramilitaries in 1992 in the Bosnian town of Bosanski Samac but acquitted of responsibility for other crimes. The appeals chamber reversed both those findings and raised their sentences. The length of the case underscores the complexity of successfully proving war crimes in international courts, amid international calls for perpetrators of atrocities during the current war in Ukraine to be brought to justice. Stanisic, a former head of Serbia's State Security Service, and Simatovic, a senior intelligence operative with the service, are the only Serbian officials to have been convicted by a U.N. court of involvement in crimes in Bosnia. Stanisic and Simatovic initially were acquitted a decade ago by the U.N.'s Yugoslav war crimes tribunal but an appeals chamber later ordered a retrial. Brammertz said that war crimes trials would continue in the Balkans as many victims and survivors still await justice. "For us, it was the last case," Brammertz told reporters. "But we know there are hundreds of cases which still need to be prosecuted domestically." Munir Tahirovic, leader of an association of victims of war and genocide in Northern Bosnia, said that he had been waiting 30 years for a verdict linking Belgrade to crimes in his country. "This judgment also proved that Serbia committed aggression not only on Bosnia and Hercegovina, but also Croatia," he said. (AP) Rotunda Rumblings Count him out: Rep. Warren Davidson announced to supporters on Tuesday that he will not run for U.S. Senate, Andrew Tobias writes. The development takes one of the potential Republican challengers to Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown off the board, and shifts focus to Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, who has said he will decide about the race later this summer. After the crowded Republican Senate primary last year, this years field of candidates is surprisingly small. The only two major GOP candidates are both from the Cleveland area: state Sen. Matt Dolan and businessman Bernie Moreno. Teach the children well: The teacher attrition rates, or the level of educators leaving the classroom, is up across Ohio. Yet vacancies are uneven across the state, Laura Hancock reports. The teacher shortage varies by district, grade level and subject area. More educators are teaching courses for which they do not have a license, which may indicate districts are moving people around to fill vacancies. Ohio lawmakers are aware of these concerns and have a handful of bills aimed at addressing the problem. Dont even think about it: State preemption laws that tell cities what kinds of ordinances they cant pass have grown more prevalent over the last 20 years, blocking off Ohios lone pockets of Democratic control from policy arenas like guns, minimum wage, plastic bags and puppies. Jake Zuckerman takes a look at the red/blue and urban/rural dynamics behind the trend. Drill bit: The state of Ohios new permitting process for drilling for oil and gas on state lands began Tuesday, after more than a decade of delays. As Jeremy Pelzer reports, its still unclear how many companies will apply for permits, how much the state could make, and how the state could spend the money they do take in. Big deal: The budget deal that President Joe Biden struck with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to avert a government default by extending the debt ceiling until 2025 doesnt look like a good deal to U.S. Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, Sabrina Eaton writes. While the Cincinnati Republican called it bad news in a statement on Twitter, U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce, a South Russell Republican, said he supports it. Other Congress members from Ohio, including Brown, said theyre still reading the legislation. Prison to public defender: Damon Davis law career started behind a typewriter in federal prison. Zuckerman reports how the 46-year-old went from a prison cell to shaking the hand of the Ohio Supreme Courts chief justice as one of the newest lawyers admitted to practice in the state. AG takes on trans bathrooms: Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost issued an advisory opinion offering legal cover to public facilities that impose policies blocking transgender Ohioans from using bathrooms and locker rooms aligned with their gender identities. Zuckerman reports on Yosts decision and how it diverges from that of the Ohio Civil Rights Commission. Tax cut for babies: An Ohio Senate Committee passed legislation Tuesday that would end sales taxes on baby products like diapers, strollers and monitors. Zuckerman reports this follows a trend from states with both strict and lax abortion laws in the wake of last years U.S. Supreme Court ruling that allowed states to ban abortion. Mixed messages: Top Ohio Republicans have defended their decision to schedule an unprecedented August election to decide State Issue 1, which would make it harder to amend the state constitution, arguing that it wont just be another low turnout summer election. But as Tobias writes, the Ohio Republican Party is preparing for just that type of election. A top aide at the Ohio Republican Party told local party officials during a conference call last week the state GOP is preparing for turnout somewhere in the 8%-12% range, which would be near historical lows for a statewide election in Ohio. Called out: A Cleveland-area state legislator has received a reprimand from House Democratic leadership over his interaction with a woman who testified against a bill state Rep. Elliot Forhan sponsored last week at the Ohio Statehouse. Per Tobias, House Minority Leader Allison Russo has ordered Forhan to undergo implicit bias training over the interaction, for which Forhan has publicly apologized. The woman, a cosmetologist from Cleveland Heights, told Russo that she was the target of a volatile, condescending, aggressive and fiery tirade from Forhan that left her frightened. The cosmetologist said she is not satisfied with the response and wants Forhan removed from the committee thats reviewing the legislation. Full Disclosure Five things we learned from Ohio Auditor Keith Fabers May 4 financial disclosure. 1. In addition to his work as the states auditor, in which he earned $124,000 last year, Faber worked as an attorney, mediator and auditor at Faber and Associates. 2. Faber reported owning three lots in Celina in northwest Ohio in 2022. He also owned a condo in Northwest Columbus, part of which he rented out under the business name of Statehouse Properties LLC. 3. Faber sold stock or received shareholder dividends from the following companies in 2022: Amazon, Apple, AT&T, Blackstone Group, BP, Caterpillar, Chevron, Ford Motor Co., Intel, Kellogg Corp., Keurig Dr. Pepper Inc., L Brands, Lordstown Motors, McDonalds, Oracle, Shopify, Siris XM Radio, Verizon, Warner Bros. Discovery Inc., Zillow and others. 4. He received two pit passes for the World 100 Race at the Eldora Speedway in Darke County, worth $130. 5. He received $2,848 in travel reimbursements for attending the Hunt-Keane Institute, where he was a fellow in 2022. The bipartisan program empowers policymakers with knowledge to improve K-12 education, a statement from its website said. Birthdays Bevan Schneck, director of public affairs, Ohio Municipal League Straight From The Source It was a lot of fun seeing my friend Dave Grohl of the @FooFighters at the 2023 Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival in Columbus. New drummer Josh Freese was great! -Former Gov. John Kasich, who posted a picture of himself with Grohl on Twitter. Capitol Letter is a daily briefing providing succinct, timely information for those who care deeply about the decisions made by state government. Subscribe to get Capitol Letter in your email box each weekday for free. COLUMBUS, Ohio There are multiple ways for voters to get involved with this summers campaign surrounding State Issue 1, the proposal to make it harder to change the Ohio constitution. One way, of course, is to vote on Aug. 8, or during the month of early voting that starts on July 11. But another is to give money to the groups for and against the proposal. The groups are likely to fund advertising that will inform the public that the vote is happening, no small thing since Ohio hasnt held a statewide ballot issue for decades, and also try to sway voters to their cause. The primary yes campaign group is called Protect Our Constitution. Its website includes a donate section, which includes three options to contribute: online, through the mail or through a wire transfer. The group is backing the measure, meaning a yes vote would make it harder to pass constitutional amendments. The primary no campaign group, meanwhile, is called One Person One Vote. It also has a donate tab that operates through ActBlue, the progressive political contribution platform. Voting no means keeping the rules for state constitutional amendments as they are. Both the yes and no campaigns also have sections of their websites where Ohioans can get involved more generally, such as requesting yard signs or helping the campaigns canvass voters door to door. Read more: Coverage of State Issue 1 If it passes, State Issue 1 would require future amendments to the Ohio constitution to get a 60% supermajority in a statewide vote, compared to the current 50% plus-one vote simple majority standard thats been in place for more than a century. It also would make it more difficult for future amendments to make it to a vote in the first place, with more stringent signature requirements for the petitions campaigns must circulate in order to qualify for the ballot. Legislators have debated making it harder to amend the state constitution for years, citing a few deep-pocketed campaigns that funded statewide votes for their narrow business interests. But Republicans fast-tracked the measure this year to try to foil an expected measure this November that would add legal protections for abortion to the state constitution. The legal status of abortion currently is in limbo in Ohio. Ohios heartbeat law, which bans abortion as early as six weeks into pregnancy, briefly went into effect last summer after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. But its been on hold since October while a lawsuit filed by abortion-rights advocates plays out in court. In the meantime, abortion remains legal up to 22 weeks into pregnancy. Andrew Tobias covers state politics and government for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer COLUMBUS, Ohio On the first day under a new legal regime, the state received eight applications to drill for oil and gas under state lands, a spokesman said Wednesday. Ohio Department of Natural Resources spokesman Andy Chow didnt provide further detail including the identities of the applicants and where they want to drill, or details from their proposals, such as signing bonuses, royalty payments and water use deals. He said the count is current as of 5 p.m. Tuesday. He said the department is in the process of posting non-confidential portions of the applications online. The eight offers on the table mark a new chapter in the roughly 12-year-old effort to drill for oil and gas under state lands, which could include some of Ohios most pristine state parks. Republican lawmakers in 2011 passed legislation that first allowed for fracking on state lands, but the policy never took on its full force as its administrative rules were never written and enacted. This year, GOP state lawmakers passed legislation that successfully pressured the Oil and Gas Land Management Commission to roll out the rules that took effect Tuesday. Should the commission sign off on a drilling request, leases could be bid out and finalized by October, according to Ohio Department of Natural Resources Director Mary Mertz. Just before Tuesdays rollout, Ohio Oil and Gas Association spokesman Mike Chadsey likened the event to a ribbon-cutting. Chadsey said Wednesday he didnt immediately have information available about the eight applications. Mertz, in May 9 budget testimony to state lawmakers, downplayed the likelihood of drilling interest. We dont know that a property will be nominated for a lease, she said. Under the new process, the Oil and Gas Land Management Commission must post notification of industrys nomination to lease the state land. This opens a 45-day comment period followed by a commission ruling not more than 120 days after the nomination comes in. The commissioners must consider the economic benefits, current land use, environmental impact, geological impact, impact to visitors, public comments, and other factors before approving or denying the nomination. Approved nominations then go out to bid. The ultimate decision comes down to a board with an industry tilt. By state law, the four-member commission is comprised of two people with knowledge or experience in the oil and gas industry who are recommended by an industry trade association; one person with expertise in finance or real estate; and one representing environmental or conservation interests. However, if the lease proposal calls for surface use on state property, the sole discretion over whether to enter a surface use agreement lies with the state agency that owns the land, not the OGLM. Gov. Mike DeWine, who selects the agency heads, said when he signed the recent legislation that his administration will not enter any surface use agreements on state parks. That could change with his successor. Even without surface impacts, the new state law could yield state parks essentially surrounded by well pads making underground inroads to the ore below. Drillers have done so under a few recreational parks under control of Ohios Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District since 2011. A few miles away from the picturesque hubs of swimming, boating and camping lies a ring of wells, processors and other gas infrastructure around locales like Tappan Lake. The sprawling conservancy district has leased 31,000 subsurface acres under its land to gas companies for $278 million in signing bonuses and royalty payments. Meanwhile, it has sold 1.2 billion gallons from its freshwater bodies to power the drilling. The 2011 law allowed state agencies, if they choose, to lease state lands. But a last-minute amendment to unrelated legislation that passed late last year instead forced state agencies to lease state lands following an application by a qualified driller. This scheme was in effect until the new rules took effect Tuesday, although no drillers seized the opportunity. That same bill last year also legally redefined natural gas as green energy, despite the fact it comes from shale (a fossil fuel) and produces climate-warming greenhouse gasses like methane and carbon dioxide. It passed with behind the scenes involvement from a dark money entity linked to Ohios gas industry and drew lobbying attention from the likes of the American Petroleum Institute, Ascent Resources, Vectren Energy, Diversified Gas and Oil, EQT Corp., the Ohio Coal Association, the Ohio Oil and Gas Association, and TC Energy. As Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer previously reported, Texas-based Encino Energy submitted a $2 billion offer to frack under Salt Fork State Park in Southeast Ohio late last year. The state rejected the offer while it still had the legal authority to do so. A spokesman DeWine previously said the offer was rejected out of deference to the commission. Assuming drillers dont seek any surface rights, they can use the practice of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) in which they drill down thousands of feet vertically from an adjacent property. From there, they turn 90 degrees and can reach under state lands to capture oil and gas without interrupting the land above. The Ohio Environmental Council opposed the recent state parks drilling bill as it passed and filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of its rushed legislative process shortly before it took effect. That lawsuit is ongoing in Franklin County. The OEC is absolutely opposed to oil and gas development on or around public lands. The fact that 8 nominations have occurred in the first few days of the new rules being in force emphasizes why we filed our lawsuit to invalidate House Bill 507, said the organizations executive general counsel Chris Tavenor in a statement. Oil and gas companies were ready to take advantage of fossil fuel development beneath state parks if we hadnt filed a lawsuit when we did, its likely these fossil fuel companies would have pursued leases prior to the rules being finalized, under a nomination process with vastly fewer safeguards. Jake Zuckerman covers state politics and policy for Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer. CNBC's Jim Cramer told investors on Tuesday to watch out for the losers, because there's a lot of them this year. The safest spot for your money right now is tech -- otherwise, tread carefully. "You stray, you lose," Cramer said. "That's the defining feature of this market, because if you stray from a small portion of the tech complex, you're gonna be destroyed." The industries seeing losses on the market right now include energy, utilities, healthcare, real estate, consumer staples, materials, industrials and even banks, especially regional ones. "It's a who's who of artificial intelligence and friends, a cornucopia of companies that benefit from extremely fast semiconductors, with just a small smattering of winners amid a host of losers," Cramer said. The healthcare is being slammed by government, according to Cramer, and companies like Moderna and CVS are down in the wake of Covid. Real estate is being badly burned as remote work persists, with office building owners like Boston Properties and Alexandria Real Estate seeing huge losses. Industrial companies like government consultant Leidos is down due to growing fears that the debt ceiling deal will mean slashes to the defense budget. To Cramer, tech is only immune to this widespread turmoil because of the boon that is generative AI. "All of this is to say that 2023's the turbo charged opposite of last year," he said. "The market's so narrow that if it weren't for Chat GPT and the recognition of what artificial intelligence could be worth, the averages might be having a terrible year. But even Cramer wondered if this disparity can truly continue, telling investors he cut some tech stock Tuesday morning for the CNBC Investing Club Charitable Trust. "We just feel too darned greedy not to take any profits in tech," he said. "That said, though, straying from tech might continue to be the kiss of death in this market, at least until we get a cooling in the trillion dollar colossus that is Nvidia, the undisputed leader of 2023." HP Inc. CEO Enrique Lores told CNBC's Jim Cramer on Tuesday that artificial intelligence will fundamentally change the personal computer industry, especially his own company. "We think there is really an opportunity to create a new category of PCs that will drive significant refresh in the category," Lores said. ""[AI is] going to help us to redefine what a PC is, the experiences that customers will be able to get are going to be much different, and we are working with all the key software vendors, key silicon providers to redesign the architecture of a PC." Lores said the company is creating AI-enabled PCs that will allow customers to build spreadsheets and analyze data in record time. Instead of analysts spending hours poring over figures, AI will be able to create spreadsheets, analyze data and even dialogue about its findings in seconds. These new models could hit the market as early as 2024. "I have been in this industry for many, many years, Jim," Lores told Cramer. "I have never seen an opportunity like this, to really drive innovation and drive new type of customer needs that we really think are going to be fundamental." HP released a less-than-stellar second-quarter earnings report on Tuesday with $12.91 billion in revenue, below the $13.07 billion expected from Refinitiv estimates. But the company did beat on second-quarter earnings and raised its full-year forecast. However, Lores is confident the second half of the year will be much stronger as HP finishes up its channel inventory reduction and the end-of-year shopping season ramps up. "It's an overall market adjustment that we think is going to happen. If you look at the first half results, they were impacted by the reduction of channel inventory we and the industry have been driving," he said. "And at the same time, in the second half, because of back to school, because of the holiday season especially, consumer demand will be stronger." An Air New Zealand airplane waits for passengers at Wellington International airport on February 20, 2020. Air New Zealand will ask passengers to weigh themselves before boarding international flights in a trial that aims to improve fuel efficiency. The carrier said Monday that over the coming weeks it will ask more than 10,000 customers traveling on its international network to take part in its passenger weight survey before they board. Air New Zealand said pilots need to know the weight and balance of the loaded aircraft before each takeoff. The move comes after a rebound in international travel over the past year or so following the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions. "Now that international travel is back up and running, it's time for international flyers to weigh in," the airline said in a statement. The company previously weighed travelers on its domestic flights in 2021. "We know stepping on the scales can be daunting. We want to reassure our customers there is no visible display anywhere," Alastair James, an Air New Zealand official specializing in load control, said in a press release. "By weighing in, you'll be helping us fly safely and efficiently every time," James said. Air New Zealand said its survey would take place at the entrance to the gate lounge of certain flights departing from Auckland International Airport between May 29 and July 2. It is not the first airline to ask travelers to weigh themselves before flying. Finnish airline Finnair started weighing its passengers back in 2017, with the aim of updating over a decade-old data on average passenger weights. That's because many carriers still use data from the European Aviation Safety Agency, now known as the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, that dates to 2009. Grieving a loss isn't easy for anyone, and it can be especially difficult for children who aren't yet able to comprehend what death actually means. Amanda Kloots, co-host of the CBS show, "The Talk," lost her husband to Covid-19 in 2020. At the time, her son Elvis had just turned one and wasn't old enough to understand what happened to his father, Nick. As time passed, Kloots had to make a choice about how she would share the news with her son. "I just decided to be honest with him, have that conversation and make sure that he's able to ask me anything," Kloots tells CNBC Make It. "I always tell him that you can ask me anything you want about Dad." To honor Nick's memory and help Elvis grieve, Kloots plays Nick's favorite songs around the house and tells Elvis stories about his dad. Kloots recently wrote a children's book titled "Tell Me Your Dreams," which encourages Elvis to tap into his imagination, through dreams especially, to connect with his dad. "From day one, Elvis and I have never put Nick's memory to rest. I just make sure his spirit is alive in this house," Kloots says. 4 tips for helping children process grief 1. Be 'open and honest' about what happened The No. 1 approach experts suggest after a child experiences a loss is to let them know what happened. Not talking about the loss can actually cause more anxiety for children, according to Shannon Bennett, psychologist and Site Clinical Director for New York-Presbyterian Hospital's Center for Youth Mental Health. "I think parents need to be open and honest with children when a loss happens," says Bennett. "Providing developmentally appropriate, but factually accurate, information, so the child understands what has happened." Without a clear explanation from grown ups, children may attempt to fill in the blanks themselves, which can lead to heightened stress and fear. So instead, give them the facts. Offering them creative forms of expression, such as allowing them to draw with others, can help them cope with the emotions that arise. 2. Be mindful of the language you use When you do share details with kids, be sure to use language that is appropriate for their age group. For small children, Bennett suggests using phrases like these: "Someone's body has stopped working." "Their body and brain have stopped working." "They're no longer with us." Avoid confusing your child by using euphemisms like "passing away" and "falling asleep," because you want them to understand that the person isn't coming back. It can be helpful to have multiple conversations about the loss when asked about it, because young kids can have a harder time remembering that what happened is final, says Bennett. Amazon workers gather for a rally during a walkout event at the company's headquarters on May 31, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. "Today looks like it might be the start of a new chapter in Amazon's history, when tech workers coming out of the pandemic stood up and said we still want a say in this company and the direction of this company," said Eliza Pan, a cofounder of AECJ and a former program manager at Amazon. "We still want a say in the important decisions that affect all of our lives, and tech workers are going to stand up for ourselves, for each other, for our families, the communities where Amazon operates and for life on planet Earth." Workers gathered on a grassy lawn, surrounded by office towers and next to an airstream providing officegoers with free bananas, and held signs with messages like "Amazon strive harder" and "Earth's best employer? Stop the PR and listen to us." One employee spoke about how remote work had allowed her to spend more time with her family, while coworkers told her it enabled them to care for newborn children and relatives with special needs. The group said employees are walking out to highlight a "lack of trust in company leadership's decision making." Amazon recently initiated the largest layoffs in its 29-year history, cutting 27,000 jobs across its cloud computing, advertising and retail divisions, among several others, since last fall. On May 1, the company ordered corporate employees to start working from the office at least three days a week, largely bringing an end to the remote work arrangements some employees had settled into during the coronavirus pandemic . The walkout was organized in part by Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, an influential worker organization that has repeatedly pressed the e-retailer on its climate stance. Approximately 2,000 employees worldwide walked off the job shortly after 3 p.m. EST, with about 1,000 of those workers gathering outside the Spheres, the massive glass domes that anchor Amazon's Seattle headquarters, according to employee groups behind the effort. Amazon disputed the figure and said about 300 employees participated. Amazon workers hold signs during a walkout event at the company's headquarters on May 31, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. Amazon employees are walking off the job at a precarious time inside the company. Amazon just wrapped up its employee cuts, and it continues to reckon with the rough economy and slowing retail sales, leaving staffers on the edge that further layoffs could still be in store. Employees had urged Amazon leadership to drop the return-to-office mandate and crafted a petition, addressed to CEO Andy Jassy and the S-team, a tight-knit group of senior executives from almost all areas of Amazon's business. Staffers said the policy "runs contrary" to Amazon's positions on diversity and inclusion, affordable housing, sustainability, and focus on being the "Earth's Best Employer." The backlash to the return-to-office mandate spilled over into an internal Slack channel, and employees created a group called Remote Advocacy to express their concerns. Amazon employees who moved during the pandemic or were hired for a remote role have expressed concern about how the return-to-office policy will affect them, CNBC previously reported. Amazon's head count ballooned over the last three years, and it hired more employees outside of its key tech hubs such as Seattle, New York and Northern California as it embraced a more distributed workforce. The company had previously said it would leave it up to individual managers to decide what working arrangements worked best for their teams. Amazon spokesperson Brad Glasser said in a statement that the company has so far been pleased with the results of its return-to-office push. "There's more energy, collaboration, and connections happening, and we've heard this from lots of employees and the businesses that surround our offices," Glasser added. "We understand that it's going to take time to adjust back to being in the office more and there are a lot of teams at the company working hard to make this transition as smooth as possible for employees." Amazon says it has 65,000 corporate and tech employees in the Puget Sound region and roughly 350,000 corporate and tech workers worldwide. Employees are also using the walkout to draw attention to concerns that Amazon isn't meeting its climate commitments. They pointed to Amazon's most recent sustainability report, which showed its carbon emissions jumped 40% in 2021 from 2019, the year it unveiled its "Climate Pledge" plan. Staffers also highlighted a report last year by Reveal from The Center for Investigative Reporting that found the company undercounts its carbon footprint by only counting product carbon emissions from the use of Amazon-branded goods, and not those it buys from manufacturers and sells directly to the consumer. Amazon disputed the Reveal report and said the details around the company's Scope 3 reporting were inaccurate. Amazon follows guidance from the Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard in determining its Scope 3 emissions, or emissions generated from a company's supply chain, Glasser said. Additionally, Amazon recently eliminated one of its climate goals, called Shipment Zero, wherein the company pledged to make half of all its shipments carbon neutral by 2030. Amazon said it would focus on its broader Climate Pledge, which includes a provision to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, a decade later than its original Shipment Zero commitment. "Our goal is to change Amazon's cost/benefit analysis on making harmful, unilateral decisions that are having an outsized impact on people of color, women, LGBTQ people, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable people," the group said. Glasser said Amazon continues to "push hard" to be net carbon zero across its business by 2040. The company remains on track to reach 100% renewable energy by 2025, he added. "While we all would like to get there tomorrow, for companies like ours who consume a lot of power, and have very substantial transportation, packaging, and physical building assets, it'll take time to accomplish," Glasser said. WATCH: Amazon employees protest about sudden return-to-office policy An American Airlines plane takes off near a parked JetBlue plane at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on July 16, 2020 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. American Airlines plans to appeal a court's recent ruling that would block its partnership with JetBlue Airways in the Northeast, American CEO Robert Isom said Wednesday. A spokesman for JetBlue declined to comment and didn't say whether the airline also planned to appeal the ruling along with American. U.S. District Judge Leo Sorokin ruled earlier this month that the airlines' partnership in the region is anticompetitive and ordered the airlines to end the partnership in 30 days. "We've got a legal system that allows for appeal, and we're going to do that," Isom said during a Bernstein investor conference. "I think the benefits that we proposed [in the alliance] will ultimately prevail." In the wake of Sorokin's ruling, Isom said the carrier is "going to have to work with the DOJ, work with JetBlue to find out exactly what we do in the interim." American declined to comment further than the planned appeal. The Justice Department declined to comment. The ruling was a win for President Joe Biden's Justice Department, which, along with six states and the District of Columbia sued in 2021 to block the partnership, alleging it would hurt competition and consumers. The Biden administration has taken a hard line against deals it views as anticompetitive. The trial began a year later in Boston and wrapped up late last year. "Whatever the benefits to American and JetBlue of becoming more powerful in the northeast generally or in their shared rivalry with Delta such benefits arise from a naked agreement not to compete with one another," Sorokin said in his ruling. The airlines argued that their partnership allows them to better compete against Delta Air Lines and United Airlines in the New York area and Boston. The partnership, approved during the last days of the Trump administration, allows JetBlue and American to coordinate on routes and schedules and share revenue. American Airlines CFO Devon May said at the same conference on Wednesday that the company didn't expect a material impact this year due to the ruling. American raised its outlook for the second quarter earlier on Wednesday, due to strong demand and lower fuel costs. Separately, the Justice Department in March filed an antitrust lawsuit to block JetBlue's proposed acquisition of budget carrier Spirit Airlines, arguing the deal would drive up fares, especially for cost-conscious flyers. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, seen here in Las Vegas in 2022, has called former President Donald Trump a puppet of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, one of former President Donald Trump's most vocal Republican critics, is poised to announce his 2024 presidential campaign next week, a person familiar with the matter told CNBC on Wednesday. Christie, 60, is expected to launch his long-shot bid during a town hall event in Manchester, New Hampshire, on Tuesday, said the person, who declined to be named ahead of the announcement. The former governor's announcement is set to come less than two weeks after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis officially joined the Republican primary race, becoming a top rival to Trump, who currently boasts a commanding lead in the polls. Of the polls of the prospective primary field that include Christie, most show him in the low single digits. The latest presidential bid marks Christie's second shot at the White House. He ran for the Republican nomination in 2016, dropping out after placing sixth in the New Hampshire primary. He endorsed Trump soon thereafter. But Christie in recent months has railed against Trump repeatedly and criticized other GOP presidential hopefuls, many of whom seem to be taking pains to avoid direct conflict with their biggest competition. "Donald Trump is a TV star, nothing more, nothing less," Christie said last month. "Let me suggest to you that in putting him back in the White House, the reruns will be worse than the original show." Christie was elected governor of the historically blue state in 2009 and served for two terms, the maximum allowed under term-limit rules. He gained national attention as governor for his connection to the 2013 "Bridgegate" scandal, in which commuter lanes were shut down on the George Washington Bridge connecting New Jersey and New York in retaliation against a mayor who refused to back Christie's reelection bid. The Supreme Court in 2020 reversed fraud convictions against two of Christie's aides who had played key roles in the scandal. Allies of the former governor earlier this week launched a super PAC, Tell It Like It Is, encouraging him to run for president. The PAC and members of its leadership team did not immediately respond to CNBC's requests for comment on Christie's plans. Christie is set to deliver remarks and take questions from an audience at a town hall at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics at Saint Anselm College at 6:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday, according to NBC News. Trump hosted a controversial town hall event at the same college weeks earlier. The Republican field could continue to grow after Christie jumps in. Former Vice President Mike Pence said he will announce his presidential plans in June, and New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu said he will decide on a 2024 bid in the coming weeks. The Credit Suisse logo seen displayed on a smartphone and UBS logo on the background. Credit Suisse has scrapped plans to set up a locally incorporated bank in China to avoid a potential regulatory conflict arising from its merger with UBS , said two sources with direct knowledge of the matter. Credit Suisse had been planning over several years to set up a wholly owned local bank in China that would boost its presence in the country by allowing it to set up a branch network to draw deposits and expand its onshore wealth management business. The embattled Swiss bank currently offers wealth management, securities brokerage, and investment consulting services in the world's second-largest economy to clients under its securities joint venture. After years of preparations, Credit Suisse has now decided to abort its plan to apply for a license to set up the so-called locally incorporated bank, said the two sources. The reason for the decision to drop the plan was that UBS, which is acquiring Credit Suisse as part of a government-orchestrated rescue of its Swiss rival, already has a locally incorporated bank in China, said the sources. In China, a financial entity can apply for and get only one such license. Avis Budget has been "left behind, without cause," opening up a buying opportunity for investors, according to Deutsche Bank. Analyst Chris Woronka upgraded shares to buy from hold. He also raised his price target to $263 from $239, implying 61% upside potential from Tuesday's close. "While our call is primarily valuation-centric, we also see a potential catalyst in the form of a likely return to share repurchases in the back half of the year," Woronka wrote in a Wednesday note. "CAR has meaningfully underperformed comparable travel and leisure sub-sectors on a YTD basis (to the tune of 2,400bps on average) and we believe the stock could be appealing to investors seeking to buy reasonably priced laggards as the S & P 500 sits near a 9-month high," he continued. Shares are flat in 2023. Over the past 12 months, they are down 14.2%. CAR YTD mountain CAR year to date "It is no secret that CAR's earnings have benefited from gains on the resale of its vehicles for some eight quarters now, or that the company's pricing metric ('RPD') remains some 36% ahead of comparable 2019 levels on a TTM basis. But we believe too much pessimism is being baked into the stock on both accounts," Woronka said. Woronka thinks Avis' European segment will top expectations in the near term as the region continues to catch up in its post-Covid recovery. "Buy the laggard," Woronka added. CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report. JPMorgan Chase and Company President and CEO Jamie Dimon testifies before a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs hearing on "Annual Oversight of the Nation's Largest Banks", on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., September 22, 2022. JPMorgan Chase & Co CEO Jamie Dimon on Wednesday called for "real engagement" between policymakers in Washington and Beijing, as Sino-U.S. relations continue to fray. Speaking at the JPMorgan Global China Summit in Shanghai in his first visit to China since his 2021 apology for joking that JPMorgan would outlast the Chinese Communist Party Dimon said that security and trade disputes between the world's two largest economies over are "resolvable." "You're not going to fix these things if you are just sitting across the Pacific yelling at each other, so I'm hoping we have real engagement," Dimon said, according to Reuters. He advocated for a "de-risking" of the economic ties between the East and West rather than for a full-scale decoupling, as the Wall Street giant seeks to boost its presence in China. In November 2021, Dimon expressed "regret" over remarks that JPMorgan would outlast China's ruling party, seeking to limit damage to the bank's growth ambitions in the country. The comments that invoked Beijing's ire came shortly after JPMorgan won regulatory approval to become the first foreign company to establish full ownership of a securities brokerage in China. Top U.S. and Chinese commerce officials met last week for "candid and substantive discussions" surrounding bilateral trade and commercial relations, in the first cabinet-level exchange between Washington and Beijing in months. National security concerns also underpin a souring of relations between the two superpowers. The U.S. on Tuesday accused a Chinese fighter jet of engaging in an "unnecessarily aggressive maneuver" while intercepting a U.S. military reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the South China Sea. Dollar General shareholders passed a resolution Wednesday to create an independent audit into worker safety, as the retailer faces mounting pressure to improve conditions. The proposal, brought by Domini Impact Investments, asked Dollar General's board to commission an independent, third-party audit that would examine the company's policies and practices and how they affect the safety and well-being of workers. It recommended the audit include an evaluation of practices that contribute to an unsafe or violent environment, such as staffing capacity. It also recommends the analysis include discussions with workers and customers to inform solutions, as well as recommendations for actions to take and regular reporting about progress made on those efforts. It is not clear if the proposal is binding. Dollar General's board recommended shareholders vote against the measure. The company didn't answer when asked if it plans to conduct the audit. "We are awaiting the final report and will report the final results in a Form 8-K within the required period," a company spokesperson said. "We strive to create a work environment where employees are able to grow their careers, serve their local communities and feel valued and heard, and we encourage employees to share their feedback through the many company-provided channels so that we can listen and work together to address concerns and challenges, as well as to celebrate successes," the spokesperson added. The company is the fastest-growing retailer in the country by store count. It employs more than 170,000 full- and part-time employees across more than 19,000 stores in 47 states and Mexico as of March, according to a securities filing. It plans to open an additional 1,050 stores in fiscal 2023 and announced more store openings than any other retailer in 2022, according to Coresight Research, a retail-focused advisory firm. As Dollar General expanded its footprint across America, it has racked up more than $21 million in fines from the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration for a slew of safety hazards, including blocked fire exits, blocked electrical outlets and dangerous levels of clutter. During the shareholder meeting at Dollar General's corporate headquarters in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, company stocker David Williams expressed the dire need for the audit as activists rallied outside the building. "I'm one of the hundreds of thousands of Dollar General employees that come into work every day scared for our safety. We're scared because we know that the leaders of Dollar General are not looking out for the safety of workers," Williams said in his address to shareholders. "The company has expanded so fast and so recklessly, that on any given day, I might have to deal with a rat infestation, a door that won't lock or someone pointing their gun at me with no security to protect me." Williams pointed to the financial implications of Dollar General's safety issues. "Violations include aisles, emergency exits, fire extinguishers and electrical panels blocked by boxes of merchandise stacked up to six feet high. This could lead to fires where workers and customers aren't able to get out of the store or boxes falling on workers or customers when they navigate the aisles trying to squeeze around them," said Williams, citing findings from OSHA and personal experience. "This is all made worse by the serious level of understaffing. It is not uncommon for a worker to be alone in a store at night in areas where robberies commonly occur," he added. The repeated OSHA violations have led the agency to label Dollar General a "severe violator," a title reserved for companies that continuously fail to rectify safety concerns. [It's] a program for the worst safety violators in the nation. It is totally rare for a large employer with many work sites to be in the severe violator program. Most companies in their program are small construction companies," Debbie Berkowitz, a former chief of staff and senior policy advisor at OSHA, said previously. Beyond fire hazards and dangerous levels of clutter, Dollar General has become a hot spot for gun violence. Since 2014, 49 people have been killed and 172 people have been injured at Dollar General stores by gun violence, according to data from Gun Violence Archive, a nonprofit. The Stoxx 600 index closed the session down 1.1%, with all sectors and major bourses in negative territory. Autos stocks led the losses, down 2.5%, with chemicals stocks 2% lower. European stock markets closed lower Wednesday as jitters remained over the U.S. debt ceiling bill ahead of the June 5 deadline. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office on Tuesday estimated the bill would see budget deficits "reduced by about $1.5 trillion" over the next decade, in line with party projections potentially providing it with additional support. It then needs to pass the Democratic-controlled Senate before Monday, when the U.S. Treasury predicts it will not have enough money to meet its debt obligations. After passing a key procedural vote in the House Rules Committee on Tuesday, the Fiscal Responsibility Act is provisionally scheduled to face a floor vote in the Republican-majority House around 8:30 p.m. ET Wednesday. Tech stocks continue to see a boost from excitement around U.S.-listed Nvidia, which briefly hit a $1 trillion market cap on Tuesday following its better than expected results. Flash figures Wednesday morning showed inflation in France cooled to 6% in May, down from 6.9% in April. Prices were 0.1% lower month on month in the index comparing inflation across the euro zone. The figures were lower than forecast in a Reuters poll of economists. German inflation data will be out in the afternoon, ahead of a euro zone flash reading on Thursday. Investors are also assessing data out of China, where the manufacturing purchasing managers' index declined for a second straight month and at a faster rate than expected; and property pricing and transactions "weakened sharply." Hong Kong's Hang Seng index dropped 2% to a 2023 low, and mainland Chinese and Japanese markets were lower. "We've had quite a strong run in global equity markets and a lot of that has been in anticipation of stronger earnings. We've had some alleviation on the inflation front and that's given hopes that we might see a pivot coming in by the Fed earlier than expected," Aneeka Gupta, equity and commodity strategist at WisdomTree Europe, told CNBC. "What's now concerning markets is the ongoing debt ceiling, that seems to be front and center, and that is weighing on sentiment to a great deal. We've also been going quite a lot back and forth on inflation, the data shows inflation is coming off quite clearly but the [Personal Consumption Expenditures] index showing slight increases. That concerns investors the Fed is not done." U.S. stock futures were lower Wednesday. CNBC's Christina Wilkie and Emma Kinery contributed to this report The Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday approved a vaccine made by Pfizer that protects adults ages 60 and older from respiratory syncytial virus, a common pathogen that kills and hospitalizes thousands of seniors every year. Pfizer, in a statement Wednesday, said it expects to have supply available in the third quarter of this year ahead of the RSV season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's committee of independent advisors will meet on June 21 to make recommendations on the use of the vaccine. The approval of Pfizer's vaccine comes just weeks after the FDA cleared a similar shot targeting RSV that is made by GSK . The two FDA authorizations within just a month represent a historic milestone for public health, after decades of failed efforts to develop vaccines for the virus. RSV causes mild symptoms similar to a cold in most people but older adults face a higher risk of severe illness. The virus kills 6,000 to 10,000 older adults and hospitalizes 60,000 to 160,000 of them every year, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. RSV also circulates at the same time as Covid and flu. The combined burden of the three viruses put substantial pressure on the health-care system late last year. The two new RSV vaccines from Pfizer and GSK could help ease some of that pressure this fall. Pfizer's shot is administered as a single 120-microgram dose. The vaccine was about 67% effective against lower respiratory tract illness with at least two signs or symptoms, and about 86% effective against this illness with three signs or symptoms, according to clinical trial results. The FDA's committee of independent advisors endorsed Pfizer's vaccine in February. But several members of the panel had voiced safety concerns about the shot. Two participants in Pfizer's clinical trial developed Guillain-Barre syndrome after receiving the vaccine. Guillan-Barre is a rare neurological disorder with symptoms ranging from brief weakness to paralysis. The FDA views the two Guillain-Barre cases as possibly linked to the vaccine. The agency has asked Pfizer to conduct a post-approval safety study to monitor for the disorder. Pfizer has also developed a vaccine to protect newborns from RSV. The FDA's advisors backed that shot in a meeting earlier this month. The FDA is expected to make a final decision on that vaccine in August. Amazon will pay the Federal Trade Commission more than $30 million to settle allegations of privacy lapses in its Alexa and Ring divisions, according to filings on Wednesday. The agency filed a lawsuit alleging Amazon's Ring doorbell unit violated a portion of the FTC Act that prohibits unfair or deceptive business practices, which Amazon settled by agreeing to pay $5.8 million. As part of the proposed settlement, Ring is required to delete any customer videos and data collected from an individual's face, referred to as "face embeddings," that it obtained prior to 2018. It must also delete any work products it derived from those videos. A separate suit alleges Amazon violated the FTC Act and Children's Online Privacy Protection Act by illegally retaining thousands of children's information through their profiles with the Alexa voice assistant. Amazon paid $25 million to settle that suit. The Department of Justice filed the Alexa complaint and proposed settlement on behalf of the FTC. The government alleged that Amazon kept voice and geolocation information associated with young users for years while preventing parents from using their rights to delete their kids' data under the COPPA Rule. Under the proposed settlement, Amazon will have to delete inactive child accounts as well as some voice recordings and geolocation information. It also would be prohibited from using that information to train its algorithms. Amazon has faced scrutiny over the data that's collected by its kids-oriented Echo smart speakers, which use Alexa to respond to commands. The FTC said in a press release that kids' speech patterns could have been especially valuable to Amazon since they differ from those of adults. That means the recordings of kids' voices could have provided an important training dataset for the Alexa algorithm to better respond to kids' voices. The government alleged Amazon failed to create an effective system to honor data deletion requests. Alongside the $25 million civil penalty, if approved by the court, Amazon will be prohibited from using children's voice information and geolocation data subject to deletion requests for creating or improving any data product. Amazon will also be required to delete inactive child accounts on Alexa, notify users about the government action against the company and of its retention and deletion practices. Amazon will also have to implement a privacy program to govern its use of geolocation information. Both settlements must be approved by a court to take effect. The FTC's ability to pursue monetary relief for consumers is limited by a 2021 Supreme Court ruling that narrowed the scope of the types of financial remedies it can impose. Amazon published blog posts responding to the settlements on its site and Ring's website. The company said it built Alexa with strong privacy protections and customer controls; designed Amazon Kids, a content service catered for children, to comply with COPPA; and worked with the FTC before expanding Amazon Kids to include Alexa. It added that Ring addressed the privacy and security issues before the FTC began its inquiry. "Our devices and services are built to protect customers' privacy, and to provide customers with control over their experience," Amazon spokesperson Emma Daniels said in a statement. "While we disagree with the FTC's claims regarding both Alexa and Ring, and deny violating the law, these settlements put these matters behind us." Now is the time to buy SeaWorld shares, according to Goldman Sachs. Analyst Lizzie Dove initiated coverage on the Florida theme park with a buy rating. She set her price target at $75 per share, implying a 34% rally from Tuesday's close. Despite investor caution on park stocks amid an uncertain macro environment, Dove said the risk has already been priced into shares. "We believe ongoing cost-cutting initiatives and growth opportunities from international licensing and domestic resort potential are both underappreciated by investors," Dove wrote in a Wednesday note. "With valuation at a historic low on concerns from new competition in Orlando despite ongoing consensus revisions upwards and international licensing ventures generally ascribed a 1.5-2.0X premium by the market, we believe this provides an attractive entry point for investors," she continued. The analyst cited SeaWorld's high exposure to the growing Orlando market, which she noted gives it admissions pricing power. She added increasing mobile app penetration and new park investments should support in-park spending per-capita growth in the future. Dove also noted SeaWorld is falling behind Disney and Universal in terms of staffing and wages. She added the park could struggle to increase staffing due to its lower hourly wage compared to its competitors. Shares gained more than 1% premarket Wednesday. The stock is positive 4.6% year to date but is underperforming the S & P 500. CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report. Djelics | E+ | Getty Images Workers enjoyed historic leverage amid Covid Most workers who quit their jobs do so for new employment elsewhere. Quits, therefore, serve as a proxy for workers' willingness or confidence in their ability to leave a job. Quits started to surge in early 2021 as Covid-19 vaccines rolled out to the masses and the U.S. economy started to reopen. Business' demand for workers outstripped the supply of people looking for a job, giving workers an unprecedented amount of power in the labor market. Employers raised wages at the fastest pace in decades to compete for scarce talent. watch now Higher pay and ample employment opportunities drove Americans to leave their jobs in record numbers. This so-called great resignation was largely about finding a better gig rather than not wanting a job, economists said. About 50.5 million people quit in 2022, besting the prior record set in 2021. "The pandemic gave workers more leverage than they'd ever had," said Julia Pollak, chief economist at ZipRecruiter. The dynamic has changed, however. The U.S. labor market has gradually cooled, staffing shortages have become less of an issue and workers appear more nervous about the job outlook, Pollak said. We are much closer to the labor market we had in 2019, which was hot but not overheating. Daniel Zhao lead economist at Glassdoor In short, the labor market is returning to normal, and the balance of power has shifted, she said. While workers are unlikely to be "handed jobs on a platter" anymore, conditions remain favorable for them, Pollak added. "There's good normal and bad normal," she said. "We're still very much in the 'good normal' world." Conditions are still favorable for job seekers It's unclear if the labor market will cool further from here. The Federal Reserve forecasts a mild recession later this year, for example. That outcome is not assured, of course. In fact, certain metrics in the BLS' JOLTS report suggest the job market became somewhat more favorable for workers in April. Job openings a proxy for employer demand for workers increased to 10.1 million after three consecutive months of declines, for example. While quits and job openings told different labor market stories in April, quits are generally a less volatile and more reliable indicator, economists said. The Department of Justice on Wednesday accused the son of West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice and 13 coal companies the younger Justice owns or operates of failing to pay millions of dollars in penalties for environmental violations. Jay Justice, the governor's son, and those companies under his control, have been cited for over 130 violations and owe more than $5 million in civil penalties, among other unpaid fees, the DOJ alleged in a civil complaint. "Our environmental laws serve to protect communities against adverse effects of industrial activities including surface coal mining operations," Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the DOJ's Environment and Natural Resources Division said in a press release. "Through this suit, the Justice Department seeks to deliver accountability for defendants' repeated violations of the law and to recover the penalties they owe as a result of those violations," Kim said. The elder Justice, who is reportedly the richest person in West Virginia, has been accused of meddling in his family business empire as governor even after vowing to separate himself from the companies upon taking office. Those businesses have also faced accusations of not paying their bills. The Republican governor last month launched his campaign for the Senate seat held by Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin. Justice's campaign insists the governor does not run the family companies. Manchin, who could face an uphill battle to win another term in the deep-red state despite his incumbent status, has not said if he plans to run for reelection. His seat is seen as the most vulnerable for Democrats who are desperate to keep their slim Senate majority past the 2024 cycle, when they face a daunting electoral map. Republicans responded to the federal lawsuit by suggesting it was motivated by politics. "Joe Biden, Chuck Schumer, and the Democrats have seen the polls that show Jim Justice winning this race, and they're panicking," Justice campaign manager Roman Stauffer said in a statement. "So now the Biden Justice Department has decided to play politics." "We will see a lot more of this as the Democrats work to help [Republican Senate primary challenger] Alex Mooney because they know they can easily beat him," Stauffer added. The campaign's stance echoed accusations lobbed by the National Republican Senatorial Committee earlier Wednesday. "Joe Biden's Department of Justice has gone totally rogue," NRSC spokesman Tate Mitchell said. "Democrats weaponizing the federal government to attack the family of a Republican Senate candidate is a complete abuse of power." But the DOJ maintained that its lawsuit was about accountability and addressing environmental risks. "Today, the filing of this complaint continues the process of holding defendants accountable for jeopardizing the health and safety of the public and our environment," U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh said in the agency's press release. The DOJ's 128-page complaint against Jay Justice and his companies covers violations stretching over five years, beginning in 2018. The lawsuit notes the Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement issued more than 100 violations and 50 cessation orders to just three of those companies between 2018 and 2022. The allegations include failing to maintain the face of a dam and ensure its "seismic stability," failing to clear rubble from a haul road after a rock fall and failing to "properly dispose of non-coal waste," among others, according to the complaint. Those violations "pose health and safety risks or threaten environmental harm," the DOJ wrote. A lawyer for the Justices' businesses did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Wall Street Journal reported in March that Jim Justice was looking to sell the coal businesses. In this article JPM Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT Jamie Dimon, chairman and chief executive officer of JPMorgan Chase & Co., during a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee hearing in Washington, D.C., US, on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2022. Al Drago | Bloomberg | Getty Images JPMorgan Chase on Wednesday rejected allegations cited in a new report that CEO Jamie Dimon over years discussed the bank's then-customer Jeffrey Epstein a sex predator with Jes Staley, who at the time was a top JPMorgan executive. "We believe this is false. There is no evidence that any such communications ever occurred nothing in the voluminous number of documents reviewed and nothing in the nearly dozen depositions taken, including that of our own CEO," JPMorgan spokeswoman Patricia Wexler said in a statement to CNBC. "The one person who claims this to be true is currently accused of horrific acts and dishonesty and hasn't been deposed," Wexler said, referring to Staley. Wexler's comments came hours after The Wall Street Journal published an article saying that Staley, in legal documents, said that for years he communicated with Dimon about JPMorgan's business with Epstein. Epstein was a client of the bank from 1998 to 2013, keeping hundreds of millions of dollars on deposit in multiple accounts. "In the documents, Staley said that Dimon communicated with him when Epstein was arrested in 2006 and in 2008 when Epstein pleaded guilty" to a sex crime in Florida, the Journal reported. "Staley also said that Dimon communicated with him various times about whether to maintain Epstein as a client through 2012," according to the Journal. Epstein served more than a year in jail for the Florida conviction of soliciting sex from a minor, a case that was widely reported at the time. The Journal also reported that it had seen documents indicating that Dimon and Staley had a meeting scheduled with Epstein on March 2, 2010. JPMorgan told that newspaper that Dimon did not attend that meeting, and that it was not on the CEO's calendar. Dimon was deposed on Friday for two civil lawsuits in U.S. District Court in Manhattan against the bank accusing JPMorgan of enabling and financially benefiting from sex trafficking by Epstein. watch now In an aerial view, a sign is posted on the exterior of Lucid headquarters on March 29, 2023 in Newark, California. Electric vehicle maker Lucid announced plans to lay off 1,300 workers, 18 percent of its workforce, as part of a restructuring plan. Lucid Group said on Wednesday that it is raising about $3 billion through a new equity offering, with the majority coming from the Saudi fund that controls the luxury electric-vehicle maker. Shares of the company fell more than 6% after hours. Lucid said that about $1.8 billion of the total will come from a private placement of stock with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF). The remainder will be raised through a public offering of new shares that commenced Wednesday, the company said. The PIF owns about 60.5% of Lucid. The new funding round is structured to keep its stake at the same level. Lucid said it will use the new cash for "general corporate purposes," including capital expenditures and working capital. Lucid had about $3.4 billion in cash and about $700 million in available credit lines as of March 31, according to its most recent report. Norway's sovereign wealth fund was established in the 1990s to invest the surplus revenues of the country's oil and gas sector. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images Norway's $1.4 trillion sovereign wealth fund says it is prepared to start dropping companies for mismanaging climate risk starting next year, adding to the decarbonization pressure that activist shareholders are already piling on firms. It comes shortly after the world's the biggest investment fund said it would vote for shareholder proposals at Chevron and Exxon Mobil's respective annual meetings on Wednesday. The resolutions seek to compel the U.S. oil majors to align their climate targets with the landmark Paris Agreement and commit to absolute carbon emission cuts by 2030. Norway's oil fund had refused to back similar shareholder proposals tabled in recent weeks at European oil majors, such as BP and TotalEnergies. The fund says it assesses every shareholder proposal individually and notes there are differences between how European and U.S. oil majors tackle the Scope 3 emissions generated by customers' use of their oil and gas. "We are a particularly active owner when it comes to climate," Carine Smith Ihenacho, chief governance and compliance officer at Norges Bank Investment Management, told CNBC via telephone. Established in the 1990s to invest the surplus revenues of Norway's oil and gas sector, the fund said last year that it would take a tougher line on companies that failed to adopt credible climate plans. It may come to a point where we feel the company is absolutely not listening to us, they are not reporting anything, we see no changes, we may then sell out. Carine Smith Ihenacho Chief governance and compliance officer at Norges Bank Investment Management "We clearly said it is in our long-term interest that the companies in our portfolio will get to net zero by 2050 because, for our financial returns in the long term, we think that will be beneficial," Ihenacho said, reflecting on the fund's 2025 climate action plan. "As an active owner, we really want to influence and push the companies towards setting net-zero 2050 targets and also push them towards having credible transition plans. By that, we mean science-based transition plans," she added. Palpable frustration Norway's oil fund has invested in more than 9,000 companies in 70 countries around the world and acknowledges that "companies care how we vote at AGMs." Ihenacho said that the main tools the fund seeks to use when engaging with corporate directors on environmental, social and governance factors are dialogue and voting, but added that the fund could soon be forced to consider selling out of climate laggards. "It is something we have to balance the whole time," Ihenacho said. "I think our starting point is very much that we want to be an owner and want to influence the companies. Selling out is not going to solve the climate crisis at all. You just sell to somebody else who may care less about climate as an owner than we do." "Having said that, it may come to a point where we feel the company is absolutely not listening to us, they are not reporting anything, we see no changes, we may then sell out. We may decide to sell out," Ihenacho said. "The earliest there will be any companies either on an observation list or excluded will be next year or maybe the year after that. We will try to use our ownership tools first," she added. Protesters outside the Salle Pleyel venue in Paris could be heard chanting "all we want is to knock down Total" and "one, two, three degrees, we have Total to thank." Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images The Oppo MR Glass Developer Edition will be available for developers in China in the second half of the year. Chinese electronics giant Oppo debuted a mixed reality headset on Wednesday, pushing into an area in which U.S. technology companies Microsoft and Apple have taking a keen interest. The Oppo MR Glass Developer Edition is designed for developers to create apps and figure out the best uses for mixed reality technology. The headset is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon XR2 Plus chipset. Mixed reality refers to technologies that encompass both virtual reality and augmented reality (AR). People can wear a headset and see digital images or videos imposed over the real world in front of them. Oppo is bullish on the future of mixed reality and sees it as the next computing platform after the smartphone. "It has the potential to become a new computing platform," Xu Yi, director of XR technology at Oppo told CNBC. Oppo has been working on AR glasses for a few years, releasing its latest version the Oppo Air Glass 2 last year. The device looks like a standard pair of glasses. The MR Glass Developer Edition, meanwhile, is a bulkier headset that comes with controllers allowing users to interact with the things they see in front of them. Xu admits that for mixed reality "to be a real product or a successful product a lot of things still need to get improved," including the technology and applications. . "Everybody wants to do AR because it has huge potential but the technology is not there yet, it may be several years away," Xu said. That's why Oppo is looking to entice developers to create the applications that will make mixed reality popular. The company will make its headset available for developers in China in the second half of the year. It said it has not plans to make the device commercially available yet. Xu said that mixed reality will eventually lead to full AR, which is being experimented with now but remains in its infancy and has yet to grow into a mass-market product. Xu envisions an AR device as one that will be worn all day by the user. "AR will be something similar to smartphones. Because the ideal AR is where you can wear [it] all day, with all functionalities, it will one day be comparable to size of smartphone market," Xu said. AR and mixed reality are an area that technology giants are globally focused on because of this potential. Microsoft has its HoloLens device, while a senior executive at Samsung told CNBC in February that the company is working out a roadmap for its own mixed reality devices. Chinese technology firm Xiaomi meanwhile took the wraps off its own AR headset this year. Apple has also reportedly been developing its own headset for a long time. In an interview with GQ this year, company CEO Tim Cook explained why people might want a mixed reality headset in the future. "The idea that you could overlay the physical world with things from the digital world could greatly enhance people's communication, people's connection," Cook told GQ. A person seen using an AR Headset at NVIDIA booth at COMPUTEX 2023 in Taipei. There are clear winners in the AI race. Everyone else, however, is a bystander reaping no benefits and that could have implications for broader markets. This report is from today's CNBC Daily Open, our new, international markets newsletter. CNBC Daily Open brings investors up to speed on everything they need to know, no matter where they are. Like what you see? You can subscribe here . There are clear winners in the AI race. Everyone else, however, isn't so much a loser, but a bystander reaping no benefits and that could have implications for broader markets. First, the winners. Semiconductor companies especially those involved in manufacturing chips that serve as the brains of AI models have been enjoying massive rallies. On Tuesday, Nvidia briefly flirted with a $1 trillion market cap, while other chipmakers like Marvell and Broadcom hit 52-week highs (even though their shares dipped at the close). Big Tech firms enjoyed a boost as well. Amid the excitement over AI, shares of both Apple and Microsoft were juiced to their highest levels in a year. But not everyone's hopping on the bandwagon. Some, in fact, got off before it even started rolling. Cathie Wood the famed investor of next-generation technologies sold off all Nvidia holdings in her Ark Innovation ETF in January. "At 25x expected revenue for this year, however, $NVDA is priced ahead of the curve," Wood said in a Twitter post Monday. More crucially, the rally in markets has been narrow so far. Over the past three months, the S&P 500 has advanced nearly 6%, but the Invesco S&P 500 Equal Weight ETF has fallen more than 3%. "We're not seeing any signs of broad participation. We're not seeing signs of early cyclicals on top of A.I.," said Andrew Smith, chief investment strategist at Delos Capital Advisors in Dallas. That disconnect could lead to a retreat in markets soon, warned Javed Mirza, technical analyst at Canaccord Genuity, a large investment firm in Canada. Meanwhile, the broader economy isn't faring so hot. Oil prices sank more than 4% Tuesday, in a sign traders aren't optimistic about global economic growth. On an individual level, U.S. consumers were also less upbeat about the economy in May than April, according to the Conference Board's consumer confidence index. "Their assessment of current employment conditions saw the most significant deterioration," said Ataman Ozyildirim, senior director of economics at The Conference Board. The jobs report for May, coming out Friday, will paint a clearer picture of the labor market. After all, in markets, expectations might not match reality a lesson we've learned again and again since last year. Subscribe here to get this report sent directly to your inbox each morning before markets open. The boom in artificial intelligence should create a big winner in one of the economic areas investors are most worried about, according to Jefferies. Analyst Jonathan Petersen said in a Tuesday note to clients that Digital Realty Trust, a real estate company focused on housing data centers, will gain pricing power because of the extra demand for computing power created by AI. "We view investing in DLR as one of the best ways to capitalize on this trend, given that high-performance AI computing takes place in data centers. Demand acceleration and limited available DC space gives DLR an unprecedented ability to push higher rents," the note said. Digital Realty is part of the broader commercial real estate sector, which many investors are trying to avoid with higher rates and signs the economy is slowing. But while investment trusts that own offices have seen demand weaken after the growth of hybrid work, Digital Realty's customers are data centers that appear poised for long-term growth. Jefferies estimated Digital Realty's property revenue will go from under $4.7 billion in 2022 to more than $7.2 billion in 2026. The stock has been moving higher over the past week but still looks cheap based on its history, according to Petersen. DLR 1M mountain Shares of DLR rose after Nvidia's earnings report in late May. "DLR's stock is up +14% since NVDA 's earnings release, but the stock only trades at a 15.6x [adjusted funds from operations] multiple. This multiple is at a 7x turn discount to EQIX , and a 2.5x turn discount to the S & P 500 avg EPS multiple, both of which are near the largest discounts ever," the note said. Jefferies has a buy rating and a price target of $129 per share for Digital Realty, or about 28% above where the stock closed Tuesday. CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed reporting. A Chinese J-16 fighter jet cut in front of the nose of the U.S. Air Force RC-135 aircraft, "forcing the U.S. aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence," on May 26, said the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command in a statement. The United States has accused a Chinese fighter jet of engaging in an "unnecessarily aggressive maneuver" while intercepting a U.S. military reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the South China Sea. It is the latest in a series of flashpoints in the highly contested territory that China claims as its own. The Chinese J-16 fighter jet cut in front of the nose of the U.S. Air Force RC-135 aircraft, "forcing the U.S. aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence," said the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command in a statement. The U.S. aircraft was conducting "safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law," according to the statement. China's Defense Ministry did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment. The incident took place on Saturday and a video recording was posted on the Twitter account of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. The South China Sea has been a major flashpoint in the Asia-Pacific in at least the last decade as China grew more assertive with its burgeoning economic clout bolstering its global influence. As part of its projection of power, China claims maritime jurisdiction over the strategic waterway that is rich with resources such as oil and gas. Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also have competing claims to parts of the waterway, a vital trade route. Relations between China and the U.S. were further strained in August after then-U.S. Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan the self-governing island that China also claims as its own. She was the highest ranking U.S. official to visit despite China's warning to the U.S. to abide by the "One China" principle. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated on Tuesday that it is crucial for Turkey to abandon its objections to Sweden's NATO membership. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday said that the time is now for Turkey to drop its objections to Sweden joining NATO and noted that the Biden administration also believed that Turkey should be provided with upgraded F-16 fighters as soon as possible. Blinken maintained that the administration had not linked the two issues but acknowledged that some U.S. lawmakers had. President Joe Biden implicitly linked the two issues in a phone call to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday. "I spoke to Erdogan and he still wants to work on something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted a deal with Sweden. So let's get that done," Biden said. Still, Blinken insisted the two issues were distinct. However, he stressed that the completion of both would dramatically strengthen European security. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) "Eat Bulaga long-time hosts Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon announced on Wednesday their decision to leave TAPE Inc., the production company behind the countrys longest running noontime variety show. The three bid their goodbyes during an episode of the show which they had been a part of since its inception nearly 45 years ago. Simula ngayong araw, May 31, 2023, kami po ay magpapaalam na sa TAPE Incorporated, Vic told viewers. Karangalan po namin na kamiy nakapaghatid ng tuwat saya mula Batanes hanggang Jolo at naging bahagi ng buhay ninyo. Maraming maraming salamat sa inyong lahat. Saan man kami dalhin ng tadhana, tuloy ang isang libo't isang tuwa, he continued, quoting lyrics from the Eat Bulaga theme song. [Translation: Starting today, May 31, 2023, we are leaving TAPE Incorporated. It was an honor for us to have brought joy to people from Batanes to Jolo and to be part of your lives. Thank you very much to you all. Wherever life brings us, a thousand and one joys continue.] Moments before this, Tito revealed they were not allowed to go on live television, although he did not elaborate. Pumasok po kaming lahat ngayong araw para makapagtrabaho, pero hindi po kami pinayagan umere ng new management nang live [We all came to work today, but the new management did not allow us to air live], the host and former senator said. His brother Vic also made a statement seemingly hinting at a possible falling-out with the company. Ang hangad lang po namin ay makapagtrabaho nang mapayapa, walang maaagrabyado at may respeto sa bawat isa [The only thing we want is to work in peace, where no one is treated unfairly and where there is respect for each and every one], he said. The video of the episode has since been taken down from Eat Bulagas YouTube channel, but it can still be accessed on the shows Facebook page as of early Wednesday afternoon. The iconic television trio's departure came amid controversies involving TAPE Inc., including Tito Sottos revelation in April that the firm owed Vic and Joey tens of millions of pesos each in allegedly unpaid salaries. Earlier this month, Vic said the company has already paid them. Hours after the three bared their decision, GMA Network where Eat Bulaga is being aired released a statement, saying it is saddened by the unexpected turn of events. However, it expressed optimism that the concerned parties will be able to resolve their problem. GMA has been the home of Eat Bulaga for many years and we still have a block time agreement with TAPE until the end of 2024 for the noontime slot," it stated. "Together with all the Filipino fans, we pray for a smooth and swift resolution of their issues." Meanwhile, in an Instagram post showing a clip of their announcement, De Leon wrote, Were not signing off we are just taking a day off! Hong Kong: Housing chief begins Beijing visit Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho today called on the Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office of the State Council (HKMAO) in Beijing and also visited various construction projects. Ms Ho called on HKMAO Director Xia Baolong this morning and reported on Hong Kong's latest housing work and initiatives, including the implementation of public rental, subsidised and light public housing. With his deep understanding of the situation in Hong Kong, Mr Xia brought encouragement to the current-term Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government as it attaches great importance to the housing needs of Hong Kong people and has implemented numerous effective policy measures to address housing problems. He expressed hope the Hong Kong SAR Government would continue to strive to improve people's living environment. Ms Ho stated that housing is of the greatest concern of the Hong Kong SAR Government, adding that the Housing Bureau will continue to enhance its speed, quantity, efficiency and quality in increasing the public housing supply to improve the livelihood of people and build a housing ladder, so as to accomplish actively responding to people's aspirations. The housing chief also visited the construction project of the Zhongguancun Forums permanent venue to learn about the adoption of Building Information Modelling, robotic technology and smart construction sites. She later toured the Yizhuang Blue Collar Apartment Project to learn about the use of the modular integrated construction method in building high-rise buildings expeditiously. Yesterday, Ms Ho met Minister of Housing & Urban-Rural Development Ni Hong to introduce Hong Kong's Long Term Housing Strategy. They also exchanged views on the housing system, green buildings as well as design and planning. This story has been published on: 2023-05-31. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 30) Two suspects in the fatal shooting of a traffic enforcer in Tanza, Cavite surrendered to authorities on Tuesday, according to provincial police. The Cavite Police Provincial Office said alleged gunman Joseph Llagas and his companion Aries Carlos surrendered to Cavite Gov. Juanito Victor Remulla at around 10 a.m., and are now under the custody of Tanza Municipal Police Station. Authorities said Llagas shot traffic enforcer William Mentes Quiambao thrice in the back of the head last Sunday after a heated argument. Quiambao had apprehended Llagas, who was supposedly driving a motorcycle while drunk. Quiambao was brought to a hospital but was declared dead on arrival, police said. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 30) A Bangkok-based business conglomerate will invest $2.5 billion in agricultural technology development in the country for four years, according to Malacanang. Officials of Charoen Pokphand Group (C.P. Group), led by its chairman Soopakij Chearavanont, made an investment pledge during their courtesy call in Malacanang on Tuesday. The companys investment from 2023 to 2027 will cover swine ($1.3 billion), poultry ($280 million), shrimp ($800 million), and food ($120 million) sectors. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he was impressed by the company and wanted to replicate the state-of-the-art technology that it uses. Marcos, who is also the head of the Department of Agriculture, boasted that the Philippines has the raw materials and a good labor force to complement available technology to boost the value chain in the agriculture sector. Even in terms of the ecosystem of agronomists and agriculturists, experts in fisheries, experts in rice, in broiler production We have many people who are very, very good. Its the system that we need, Marcos said. READ: Fisherfolk, farmers remain poorest in PH PSA He said agriculture is not about planting and putting seeds into the ground but research and development and mechanization. Marcos has faced numerous issues in the agricultural sector during his less than a year in office. Prices of onions and sugar have suddenly spiked, leading to allegations of smuggling and illegal importation. This has prompted a Senate probe against agricultural officials involved in a supposed onion and sugar cartel. The C.P. Group holds investments in 21 countries and economies worldwide. The company operates across eight business lines, namely agro-industry and food, retail and distribution, media and telecommunications, e-commerce and digital, property development, automotive and industrial products, pharmaceuticals, and finance and investment. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) The number of people testing positive for COVID-19 in Metro Manila continued to decline, the OCTA Research said. OCTA Research fellow Guido David said Tuesday that the positivity rate in the region fell to 21.2% as of May 28, lower than the 25.2% recorded last May 21. Reproduction number also dipped to 0.97 as of May 26, he added. However, OCTA saw a jump in hospital occupancy in the region, from 28.8% to 29.1% on May 28. Positivity rates in most of Luzon also remained high, David added in a separate post on Monday, with Oriental Mindoro posting 55.6% last May 27. The following provinces, meanwhile, recorded a decrease in their positivity rates: Batangas, Bulacan, Camarines Sur, Cavite, Isabela, Laguna, Rizal, and Zambales. The Department of Health on Monday said the Philippines logged a 6% decline in its COVID-19 cases covering the period of May 22 to 28, with 11,667 people catching the virus last week. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured the public on Wednesday that state pension funds will not be used as seed money for the controversial Maharlika sovereign wealth fund. But the President said the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and the Social Security System (SSS) could invest in the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) if they find it a "good investment." "We will not use it as a seed fund," he said during a media briefing. "However, if a pension fund, which is what pension funds do, is they invest. If the pension fund decides that the Maharlika fund is a good investment, it's up to them if they want to invest in it." His statement on pension funds' possible investment in the MIF contradicts the present version of the bill. The Senate swiftly approved before dawn on Wednesday its version of the Maharlika fund bill, which Marcos certified as urgent. Hours later, the House of Representatives adopted the upper chamber's version of the proposed measure. The early iteration of the bill sought funding from the GSIS and SSS to bankroll the sovereign wealth fund, but that provision was dropped by the House Committee on Appropriations in December last year after several groups argued that doing so may put the people's pension funds at risk. Under Senate Bill No. 2020, the upper chamber's final version, agencies such as the GSIS, SSS, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office "are absolutely prohibited, whether mandatory or voluntary, to invest in the MIF." To support the Maharlika Investment Corporation, the Land Bank of the Philippines will invest 50 billion; the Development Bank of the Philippines, 25 billion; and the national government, 50 billion. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) The Senate swiftly approved on Wednesday its version of the controversial Maharlika fund bill that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. certified as urgent, with lawmakers agreeing to ban the use of government pension money to bankroll the proposed sovereign wealth account. The previous plan to get initial investments from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and Social Security System (SSS) for the proposed Maharlika Fund was abandoned after earning the ire of several groups who argued that doing so may put Filipinos pension funds at risk. Under Senate Bill No. 2020, the final version, lawmakers accepted Sen. Raffy Tulfo's proposal to prohibit the GSIS, SSS, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) from investing in the proposed fund. READ: Senate approves Maharlika Investment Fund Bill Sen. Pia Cayetano said this move would secure the pension funds of Filipinos, which would not be vulnerable to risks linked to investments. We would like to ensure that the pension funds and the aforementioned funds will not be touched" she said. "We had experiences in the past where the hard-earned money of the people was lost. This is the amendment." Those funds are doing well and we don't want to risk it any further, Cayetano added. To support the Maharlika Investment Corporation (MIC), the Land Bank of the Philippines will invest 50 billion; the Development Bank of the Philippines, 25 billion; and the national government, 50 billion. Other changes, safeguards The MIC will also undergo a "special audit" by the Commission on Audit every five years. This is on top of the processes to be conducted by internal and external auditors. Meanwhile, the number of board of directors was also cut to nine from Senate Bill No. 1814s 15. Three independent directors would also come from the private sector. Penalties to be imposed for a director or officer who willfully holds office while concealing a ground for disqualification also increased from the previous Senate version and now ranges from 5 million to 7 million. The person would also face perpetual disqualification from holding public office. If the violation is detrimental to the public, the person would be slapped with a fine ranging from 10 million to 15 million. For persons engaged in graft and corruption practices involving the Maharlika fund, the Senate bill imposed stiffer penalties. Those who allow themselves to be used for corrupt practices by directors and employees of the MIC would be penalized with 1 million to 5 million and imprisonment of six years. A director or officer of the MIC who fails to report any corrupt practices would likewise face a fine of 5 million to 10 million, with imprisonment of 20 years and perpetual disqualification from holding public office. The Senate version also noted that the MIC cannot invest in areas that are explicitly prohibited under existing laws and conventions to which the Philippines is a party. Some provisions in the Senate version differ from those in the version of the House of Representatives. The House may adopt the Senate version. Lawmakers convened a bicameral conference committee hearing on Wednesday to reconcile conflicting provisions of the versions of the two chambers before the measure is ratified and submitted to Malacanang The bicameral conference committee meeting is set for 11 a.m. on Wednesday. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) The camp of embattled Negros Oriental Rep. Arnie Teves may raise their concerns to the Supreme Court should the House of Representatives impose its recommended "stiffer" penalties against the lawmaker. According to Teves' lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, filing a petition at the Supreme Court is an option that can be taken to question an action done by a government branch. "Walang [There is no] appeal within Congress. The exercise of its prerogative is within Congress," Topacio explained. "Although one of our options is to invoke the expanded judicial review or judicial power of Supreme Court in determining whether or not any branch of government has committed grave abuse of discretion. In-expand po kasi ng '87 Constitution yung judicial review power. Nabawasan yung province of acts which constitute non-justiciable issues," he added [Translation: The 1987 Constitution expanded the judicial review power and reduced the province of acts which constitute non-justiciable issues.] Topacio made the statement at a forum on Wednesday even as he said they are still clueless on what the "stiffer disciplinary action" House officials referred to earlier this week. The House Committee on Ethics and Privileges on Monday said it was recommending "stiffer disciplinary action" against Teves. However, committee chairman Rep. Felimon Espares did not disclose details of the recommendation. Ethics panel Vice Chairman Rep. Jil Bongalon said expulsion is a penalty stiffer than suspension, but clarified he was not saying that was the recommendation made by the committee. Teves was penalized for his continued absence from Congress with a 60-day suspension and this ended on May 22. Suspects have right to legal representation At the same briefing on Wednesday, Topacio said there was nothing wrong with the move of suspects in the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo to seek legal representation. "Nakalagay sa Constitution, every person under investigation for a commission of a crime has a right to counsel of his own choice. Bakit mamasamain mo yung isang tao na nakakulong ay ginamit yung kanyang karapatan sa ilalim ng Saligang Batas?" Topacio said. [Translation: It is in the Constitution that every person under investigation for a commission of a crime has a right to counsel of his own choice. Why would you take it against a person who uses his rights under the Constitution?] Earlier this month, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla said some suspects "lawyered up" and are now refusing to work with the Department of Justice. Five suspects have so far retracted their statements. DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano said it was possible the Teves camp had a hand in the recantations, and insisted cases against the suspects were solid. Topacio also dispelled talk saying he had links to lawyer Danny Villanueva, who represents several witnesses tagged in the Degamo slay. CNN Philippines' Pia Garcia contributed to this story. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) Typhoon Betty weakens further while still moving slowly over the sea east of Batanes, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said early Wednesday morning. According to PAGASA's 5 a.m. bulletin, Betty's maximum sustained winds decreased from 130 to 120 kilometers per hour near the center. Gustiness was also down from 160 to 150 kph. Batanes remains under Signal No, 2 which means gale-force winds that have minor to moderate threat to life and property are possible. Signal No. 1 is still up over Cagayan including the Babuyan Islands, the northern and eastern portions of Isabela, the eastern portion of Ilocos Norte, Apayao, the northern portion of Kalinga, and the northeastern portion of Abra, where strong winds with minimal to minor threat may be felt. PAGASA said the outer periphery of the typhoon circulation and the enhanced southwest monsoon, or habagat, are expected to bring gusts over the Bicol Region, Western Visayas, Aurora, Quezon, Mindoro Provinces, Marinduque, Romblon, Northern Samar, and the rest of the Cordillera Administrative Region and Ilocos Norte. From today until Wednesday morning, PAGASA said Betty will also bring heavy rains over Batanes, parts of Babuyan Islands, mainland Cagayan, and parts of Ilocos Sur and La Union. Ilocos Sur and La Union will experience heavy rains until Thursday morning. By then, the typhoon will be "near the PAR line," added PAGASA. Betty was last spotted 320 kilometers east of Itbayat, Batanes, moving northward. PAGASA earlier logged its speed at 10 kph. The weather bureau warned that Betty may slowly accelerate today until tomorrow. It added that sudden turns towards the north, northeast, or north northwest is possible in the next 12 hours. Betty is seen to weaken over the next few days and may downgrade into a severe tropical storm by tonight or tomorrow morning and into a tropical storm by Friday evening or Saturday morning. PAGASA also said Betty may exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility as a severe tropical storm or tropical storm late Thursday or early Friday. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) The national government is eyeing to bring down the average age of Filipino farmers as it encourages young people to get into farming in line with the plan to digitalize the rice sector, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Wednesday. "Napag-usapan din natin [We also discussed], speaking of new technologies, is bringing down the average age of Filipino farmers," Marcos told reporters after presiding over the Rice Industry Convergence Meeting at the National Irrigation Administration headquarters in Quezon City. "To do that, we engage them with new technologies because they will be the ones who will operate those new technological systems and that will make it interesting for young people to come into this sector," he added. According to the United States Agency for International Development, the average age of Filipino farmers is from 55 to 59 years old. Marcos, who also acts as Agriculture secretary, earlier expressed support for the creation of a digital farmer registry and food balance sheets for food security. House lawmakers have also filed bills that would encourage the youth to consider a career in agriculture. Tarlac Rep. Jaime Eduardo Cojuangco has proposed a measure seeking to include agricultural lessons in the primary and secondary education curriculum. Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte was one of the authors of a bill seeking to provide subsidies to children of qualified indigent farmers who will pursue a degree program related to agriculture in state universities and colleges. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 31) A radio broadcaster in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro was shot dead early Wednesday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said. The police report said Cresenciano Aldovino Bunduquin, 50, was killed by two assailants along C5 road at Brgy. Sta. Isabel in Calapan City at 4:20 a.m. Meanwhile, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines said the two gunmen were on a motorcycle when they shot Bunduquin while he was opening his store. Authorities are now in pursuit of the suspects, the PNP said. "The PNP will establish a Special Investigation Task Group to handle the investigation. This will pave the way for a deeper probe to expedite the gathering of pieces of evidence and testimonies," the statement read. It said the PNP is maximizing efforts to gather more evidence and testimonies for the immediate arrest of the perpetrators. However, the police said that it cannot conclude as of now if the murder may be related to Bunduquin's profession. "While his work as a media representative involves discussion of critical issues, we cannot fully conclude as of this time that the motive is work-related, but we are exploring all possible angles as of this time," the statement added. 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. Are you a current print subscriber to Columbia Gorge News? If so, you qualify for free access to all content on columbiagorgenews.com. Simply verify with your subscriber id to receive free access. Your subscriber id may be found on your bill or mailing label. Offer a personal message of sympathy... By sharing a fond memory or writing a kind tribute, you will be providing a comforting keepsake to those in mourning. If you have an existing account with this site, you may log in with that below. Otherwise, you can create an account by clicking on the Log in button below, and then register to create your account. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. (Posted May 31, 2023) By Kristy Zurbrick, Madison Editor The hum of friendly conversation filled the gymnasium at Sharon Mennonite Church on May 20 as approximately 50 Vietnam War era veterans and their loved ones enjoyed lunch, courtesy of the Plain City chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). The occasion was part of an ongoing nationwide commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War era which started on Nov. 1, 1955, and ended on May 15, 1975. The last combat units from the United States left South Vietnam on March 29, 1973. In 2012, President Barack Obama signed a proclamation setting the commemoration period as Memorial Day 2012 to Veterans Day 2025. Organizations throughout the country have been holding events to honor those who served, their families, and the organizations and allies who provided support during the war. We want to give (the veterans) the honor and tribute they did not receive at the time, said Janet Kaufman, Plain City DAR regent and organizer of the May 20 event. After lunch, the hum in the gymnasium quieted as the recognition program began. Lt. Col. Ken Bonnell with the Union County Military Family Support Group served as guest speaker. Bonnells military service includes two tours of duty in Vietnam. He is the recipient of six awards for bravery and two Purple Heart medals, among many other acknowledgements for his commitment to military service. Bonnell talked about the criticism and negative labels he and his fellow Vietnam War era veterans endured during and after the war. This labeling caused others to look at Vietnam veterans as being flawed and as damaged goods, he said. Our reputation and treatment has gotten a lot better over the years, however, I often felt the need to introduce myself as if I was in an AA meeting: My name is Ken Bonnell, and I am a Vietnam veteran. Well, listen up, everybody. I am dang proud to be a Vietnam vet, and so should you! Bonnell talked about the distinct memories he and his fellow veterans have based on their military specialties and when and where they served. Regardless of when you served or where you served your service was necessary for the defense of our great nation, for what our nation stands for, and for the defense of people in other nations striving to attain similar freedoms, he told the crowd. He also turned the spotlight on the family members in the audience. Let me stress that the spouses and immediate family members of Vietnam era veterans also served and sacrificed in their own right on behalf of our nation, he said. A pinning ceremony followed Bonnells message. Lt. Gen. Charles Stenner read the names of veterans present. As each name was called, a loved one or a DAR member pinned a special Vietnam Veteran pin on the veterans lapel. Pins also were given to a handful of surviving spouses. A proclamation from Plain City Mayor Jody Carney was read. To bring the commemoration to a close, Kevin Mabry sang God Bless America and Douglas Weakley played Taps. Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin Any veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces anytime between Nov. 1, 1955, and May 15, 1975, regardless of location of service, is eligible to receive a special Vietnam Veteran lapel pin. The symbolism of the images on the pins front are: EagleRepresents courage, honor, and dedicated service to the nation. Blue circleThe blue matches the canton of the American flag and signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice. Laurel wreathA time-honored symbol representing victory, integrity, and strength. StripesRepresent the American flag. StarsThe six stars represent the allies who fought alongside one another: Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, and the United States. The message on the back of the pin reads: A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You. The official name of the commemoration is included, as well, reminding each veteran that this is a national initiative, and the pin is the nations memento of thanks. Just days after trading remarks over the implementation of AI laws in Euope, the EU's industry commissioner, Thierry Breton, is set to meet OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in June to discuss AI regulations further, according to a Reuters report. The meeting, which is most likely to take place in San Francisco, will see Breton seek a roadmap for implementation of EUs AI regulations that are expected to come into effect in 2026, the news report cited unnamed EU officials as saying. The discussion, according to officials, will focus on data sets and their use in building or managing AI and large language models. The meeting is also likely to see Breton ask Altman to join a group of companies that have already signed a pact to adhere to the EU's AI regulations, the officials told Reuters. The news about Breton and Altmans meeting comes just days after both executives were embroiled in a public debate over the EUs existing AI regulation proposal. Last week, Altman said OpenAI had no plans to leave the EU after threatening to stop his companys operations in the EU if the commission passed its AI regulations in their existing form. Altmans threat was followed by Breton saying that the EUs AI regulations cannot be negotiated. OpenAI and Microsoft have both been vocal about seeking governmental policies around the regulation of AI. Earlier this month, Altman, while speaking in front of the US Senate Judiciary subcommittee on privacy, and technology, sought regulations over AI that included letting consumers know about content generated by AI and looking at ways to stop bad actors from gaming large language models. Microsoft president Brad Smith, too, has voiced similar concerns about AI regulations. Last week, Smith not only sought a separate US agency for AI governance but also laid out a five-step blueprint for public governance of AI. Currency manipulators and economic saboteurs will always be lurking about looking for opportunities and loopholes to unjustly profiteer but authorities will also be always ready to institute measures to insulate the transacting public, Finance and Economic Development Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube said last night. He was speaking after yesterdays Cabinet meeting and in the wake of Treasury announcing on Monday a raft of interventions to maintain macro-economic stability and retain the buying power of the Zimbabwe dollar. Responding to questions on why the Government doesnt legislate more tightly or introduce regulatory frameworks that completely insulate the currency and economy once and for all, Prof Ncube said authorities appreciate that there are always loopholes but they will always be on the lookout to plug them. There have also been red flags from political and economic commentators over the timing of the sustained onslaught on the Zimbabwe dollar. Commentators contend that regime change agents are targeting the Zimbabwe dollar as a means to scuttle infrastructural developments and other economic successes that Government has recorded under President Mnangagwa in a bid to jolt the electorate ahead of this years general elections. . . . currency manipulators tend to work against Government policy (and) macro-economic policy ronouncements, this is true, said Prof Ncube. Thats what they do. They always try to find loopholes to make sure that they can profit from any situation. Unfortunately, this is what we have to deal with as policy makers; we always try to respond. We have responded to those who have been found to be manipulating currency such as, for example, the Financial Intelligence Unit have frozen their accounts, he said. If you look at the supply chain for most products . . . you then get the aggregators who then buy products from the producers and then on-sell to retailers. For most products retailers dont buy directly from producers, they are middlemen. So we discovered that they were doing some currency manipulation working against Government policy and we froze their accounts. We have since recommended the Ministry of Industry and Commerce suspend their trading licenses. Maybe we should go further and say that retailers should now source their products directly from the manufacturers and not via these aggregators. We have had situations where we have shut down accounts for various other speculators and manipulators and we will continue to do so, said Prof Ncube. One thing we are trying to tackle is this issue of money supply growth. On another note, acting Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, and Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Dr Jenfan Muswere said Cabinet considered and approved the National Migration Policy for Zimbabwe. The policy aims to strengthen legal and institutional frameworks to derive maximum benefit from migration as well as aiding the socio-economic support systems of migrants and society. It will develop a labour migration information system that will gather reliable and accurate data on labour migrants abroad by gender, profession, duration of stay, wages and salaries and working conditions. It also aimed at including diasporans in the process of national development by developing a national migrant remittances framework and strengthening the capacity of Zimbabwe diplomatic missions to promote tourism. Cabinet noted that discrimination, xenophobia and racism are increasingly becoming issues of great concern to both sending, transit and receiving countries, said Minister Muswere. Zimbabwe has already promulgated the Prevention of Discrimination Act which prohibits and criminalises discrimination. Therefore combating discrimination, xenophobia and racism is an essential element of a comprehensive national migration policy, said Minister Muswere. Herald THE Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has said it is executing its functions independently and is confident of delivering credible elections as it does not fear or favour any political party. Instead of political players sensationalising and dramatising electoral processes to create alarm and despondency ahead of elections set for August, they should focus on depolarising the election environment, the commission urged. ZEC said it opened the voters roll for inspection to enable the public to audit its process and will attend to any anomaly that may arise. The voters roll inspection has seen opposition politicians claiming their names are not on the voters roll, but after further engagement with ZEC, they have found that their names were on the voters roll after all. Citizen Coalition of Change (CCC) senior member Professor Welshman Ncube is among the politicians who were quick to post on social media platform Twitter that their names were not on the voters roll. However, upon approaching ZECs provincial offices he was assisted and told of the specific polling station where his name is. At Windsor Park the lady who attended to me first used the electronic platform and the system could not locate my name and ID particulars. She then went into the ZEC computer mainframe and advised that my name appeared on the voters roll for Burnside Garage Tent Polling Station, tweeted Prof Ncube. I also asked how my name would appear on their mainframe computer and yet their electronic platform is unable to find my name and ID particulars which are in the system and they had no explanation. All they could say is that there are similar problems across Bulawayo and are being attended to. Another CCC leader, Mr David Coltart said his polling station had changed, but after verifying he was informed that it had not changed. He said using the *265# facility on a mobile phone, he learnt that he was supposed to vote at Hillside Bowling Club, but upon visiting the station he was not on the voters roll. Eventually at lunchtime today I went back to the @ZECzim offices at Windsor Park. It was even more inundated with people than yesterday but after asking around I did find a young man who was prepared to go into the #Zec database and found that I am registered at Burnside Garage, said Mr Coltart. CCC leader Mr Nelson Chamisa went to Kuwadzana suburb in Harare to check his details, and found nothing untoward. ZEC chief elections officer Mr Utloile Silaigwana said the commission made public the provisional voters roll by taking it to communities for people to check their names as it has nothing to hide. Mr Silaigwana said at law, people are expected to visit ZEC offices for inspection purposes but the commission had gone an extra mile by establishing more than 11 000 centres countrywide. He said the delimitation exercise that the commission conducted recently could have changed the electorates polling station among other anomalies being attended to. Probably some people could have gone to the places where they usually vote but because of the delimitation exercise they might have been moved. There is no need for anyone to press a panic button because these anomalies that Im talking about can be corrected, said Mr Silaigwana. He said it is in ZECs interest to deliver a credible election as the countrys Constitution guarantees ZECs independence and it does not act in a partisan manner. The independence of ZEC is guaranteed. Firstly, it is guaranteed by the Constitution. ZEC reports to nobody except to Parliament. It is for that reason that you may want to know that ZEC used to report through a ministry, but now reports straight to Parliament. The Ministry of Justice (Legal and Parliamentary Affairs) is just an administrative conduit but we now report straight to Parliament, he said. That alone guarantees the independence of ZEC. Secondly, ZEC is independent in its functions. It is functioning independently and there is no where you find out that ZEC produces, for instance voter education material that favours party A or party B. And it is for that reason that when ZEC conducts voter education and voter information, it makes sure that those who are not ZEC, who are allowed by the law, civil society organisations, faith based organisations and other organisations, cannot go to the field without ZEC having approved their materials to make sure that their material is not biased and they are actually neutral. Mr Silaigwana said with regards to its operations there is no need for the public to make unfounded claims on how it prepares for polls. There is no need to over-dramatize some of these things and also sensationalise elections in our country. We all have the responsibility to build this country, we all need this stability and there is no need to be saying things that dont exist. ZEC is truly independent, said Mr Silaigwana. He said political parties should work towards depolarising the election environment. Mr Silaigwana said if the political landscape is not conducive some special interests groups may be forced not to participate in the polls. There is no need to cause alarm in our electoral processes. It is not necessary for alarmists to cause despondency in an election. Elections must be held in a peaceful environment. Elections belong to the ordinary people and the ordinary people must be protected by an environment, said Mr Silaigwana We appeal to the political actors to create a conducive and peaceful environment so that our elections must be held where everyone wants to participate. If that does not happen people with disabilities, pregnant women and the old may not participate in the elections because they might think that the elections may become violent. He said the commission is ready to hold this years harmonised elections and is confident that Government will finance the holding of the polls. Chronicle This week marks the 25-year anniversary of the end of The Larry Sanders Show, a groundbreaking HBO series that mined comedy gold from the behind-the-scenes drama of its titular late-night show within a show. Today, we got to hear the behind-the-scenes drama behind the behind-the-scenes drama. The Washington Post recently reached out to the remaining stars and writers of The Larry Sanders Show to talk shop and smack about their old boss, the late, great Garry Shandling. As it turns out, the TV giant behind the semi/mostly-autobiographical sitcom about a neurotic, petty and self-centered late-night host could be a neurotic, petty and self-centered showrunner. The full piece covers stories told by everyone involved in the making of The Larry Sanders Show who still holds a place in their heart for the series that changed how comedy was made on TV among others, Jeffrey Tambor and Judd Apatow expressed their deep admiration for Shandling, as well as the deep frustrations that working with the man could give them. But of all the stories that paint Shandling as a complicated, passionate and deeply truthful TV virtuoso, one thing is clear auditioning for him was a nightmare. Play Tambor, who played the titular hosts sidekick and announcer Hank Kingsley, recalled the dedication he had to show to earn Shandlings approval. I was so amped up for the audition that I left my house about two hours early, he explained. In the scene, Larry tries to leave the room, and I moved an entire couch to stop him; I remember Garry glancing at the casting director, Francine Maisler. I knew that was a good thing. Penny Johnson Jerald, who played Sanders loyal assistant Beverly Barnes, recalled Shandlings blase demeanor toward auditioning actors, saying, As were about to start my audition, the phone rings. And rings. I said, Im sorry, are you going to answer that? Garry said no. The phone stops, so I begin. But it rings again, so I answer it. Hello, Garry Shandlings office. How can I help you? This is my audition. Advertisement Kids in the Hall comic Scott Thompson, who played Hanks assistant Brian in the latter half of the series, was fortunate enough to avoid the audition process entirely when Shandling pitched him on the project. There was no audition, said Thompson. Garry was a fan of Kids in the Hall and had probably seen me on Conan. He wanted the character to be gay. I said, Then I have a trade: My character also has to be Canadian. Garry said, Thats a bit too much. Nobodys going to buy that, a Canadian character on television in America. The process for writers to land a job on the show was notoriously difficult, as Shandling was known as one of the most demanding head writers in show business. Alex Gregory and Peter Huyck, the creators of White House Plumbers who briefly served in the Larry Sanders writers room, recall being warned by Apatow about the interview they were to have with Shandling at his house. When you arrive at Garrys house, therell be a famous person. Youll have to wait while they talk. And at some point, Garry will take a phone call and may even talk about you on the call, Apatow informed them. Advertisement Advertisement Sure enough, when they arrived at the house, Shandling greeted them by pretending to reject them, then sent them outside. We go to the backyard, and David Duchovny is sitting there, and we have to wait. And then Garry took a call and talked about us. Just as Judd predicted, Gregory recalled. Play Advertisement Among the responders to the Posts inquiries for Shandling stories, Apatow had perhaps the most thoughtful and tragic insights into the mans mind. Garrys philosophy was about trying not to take things so seriously, treating people well and not letting your ego drive your life, Apatow said, but those were the things he really struggled with. Garry was satirizing issues that he had. People worked really hard, and a lot did amazing work for a long time and left feeling unappreciated, Apatow lamented. I felt sad when they left with a bad feeling, and I felt for Garry, because I could see how much pain he was in. After the show ended, he was much sweeter and more open. In 2019, Legendary did what they had to do to secure the rights to develop The Machine, Bert Kreischers 2016 stand-up routine where he detailed the time he robbed a train in Russia with the Russian Mafia. The video has since garnered 52 million views, causing any reasonable person to expect a blockbuster that expands on such a wild narrative. The eponymous film starring Kreischer, Jimmy Tatro, Jess Gabor and Mark Hamill was finally released over the holiday weekend. And according to critics, Kreischer and everyone involved did not do what they had to do when it came to making a good movie. Critics and moviegoers alike are panning the film, which currently sits at 22 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. One review simply remarked that the comics preexisting fans should find plenty to love, which is never a good sign for everyone else. Advertisement While some of Hollywoods critics chose words that cushioned the blow of their low scores, the community on Letterboxd was less charitable, and pulled no punches when it came to ripping apart Kreischers film, which holds an average of 2.9 stars out of 5 on the website. Here then are some of the most brutal reviews of The Machine. Theyre likely funnier than the film itself An Audit Office of New South Wales (NSW) report revealed that two university-controlled entities reported financial losses from cyber incidents suffered during 2022, out of 13 that reported suffering an incident. The ten public universities in NSW control 51 Australian entities and 23 overseas entities. The number of cyber incidents or attacks identified by the entities in 2022 ranged from nil to 1,777. This is a big improvement from 2021s 4,400. However, this difference could be due to different definitions of what is a cyber incident and while some may report blocked attempts others may not. The ten public universities are: Charles Sturt University, Macquarie University, Southern Cross University, University of New England, University of New South Wales, University of Newcastle, University of Sydney, University of Technology Sydney, University of Wollongong, and Western Sydney University. According to the report, the highest financial loss reported by universities in NSW was from a single attack on an entity that involved malicious software executed on a faculty computer laboratory. Whilst most entities have not reported direct financial losses from cyber incidents, many required significant effort and costs to respond to known, but unsuccessful incidents, the report read. Universities hold gold mines of data Recent major cyberattacks on Australian organisations that were followed by ransom requests have given Australians a taste of just how much personally identifiable information (PII) can cost. Australian universities hold such information including student and staff names, student numbers or staff ID, date of birth and ID records, billing addresses and banking details, and details of participants in research activities. Entities tend to store PII using a combination of offshore, onsite, offsite and cloud environments. Over 65% of entities use cloud storage for personal information which relies on third-party IT service providers, and this has become a big problem. At least two of the three major attacks on Australian organisations occurred by what is a common method of using compromised third-party account login details. Another issue identified regarding third-party providers is that 31% of entities did not require their providers to notify them of cyber incidents. This is a big concern since from 8 July 2022 universities became part of the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018 (SOCI Act), which requires organisations with critical infrastructure assets to report cyber incidents to the ACSC within 12 hours of detection for critical incidents that have a significant impact on the availability of the asset, or 72 hours for other incidents that have a relevant impact on the asset To avoid the risk of suffering new attacks, the Audit Office also suggested NSW universities review their PII retention policies to ensure such data is held only for the minimum duration required. Currently, personal information of staff and students are held between seven years and eternity, while personal information related to research and commercial activities are held between seven and 15 years. The problem is in cybersecurity controls Although all but one entity continues to assess their cybersecurity controls in the last 12 months, many crucial points are not being watched carefully. For example, the report found that 23% of entities are not performing reviews of their logs of privileged user activities and 77% of entities do not have automated notification systems to alert the IT function when user permissions are changed. More alarming is the idea that incidents may have occurred but gone undetected or, worse, were unreported to those charged with governance. While NSW universities are providing cybersecurity training, 46% did not testing staff knowledge through awareness exercises. Those that performed simulated phishing attacks as part of their awareness exercises reported click-through rates ranging from 3% to 71%. By Microsoft Security Cybercriminals are constantly looking for novel ways to evade detection and enact harm. Outdated copies of common security tools have become one avenue. Microsoft, cybersecurity software company Fortra and the Health Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Health-ISAC) recently came together to combat this issue. On March 31, 2023, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York issued a court order allowing Microsoft, Fortra, and Health-ISAC to disrupt the malicious infrastructure criminals use to facilitate their attacks. Cobalt Strike, which is provided by Fortra, is a legitimate and popular post-exploitation tool used for adversary simulation; however, threat actors will sometimes abuse and alter older versions of the software. These illegal copies are referred to as cracked and have been used to launch destructive attacks, such as those against the Government of Costa Rica and the Irish Health Service Executive. Microsoft software development kits and APIs have also been abused as part of the malware coding and distribution infrastructure to target and mislead victims. The ransomware families associated with or deployed by cracked copies of Cobalt Strike have been linked to more than 68 ransomware attacks impacting healthcare organizations in more than 19 countries around the world. These attacks have cost hospital systems millions of dollars in recovery and repair costs, plus interruptions to critical patient care services including delayed diagnostic, imaging, and laboratory results, canceled medical procedures, and delays in delivery of chemotherapy treatments, just to name a few. The court order issued by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York enables Microsoft to notify relevant internet service providers (ISPs) and computer emergency readiness teams (CERTs) who assist in taking the infrastructure offline, effectively severing the connection between criminal operators and infected victim computers. Disrupting criminal activity through legal avenues The cybersecurity community will need to be persistent to successfully take down the cracked, legacy copies of Cobalt Strike hosted around the world. In the past, Microsofts Digital Crimes Unit has focused on disrupting the command and control infrastructure of malware families. Now, the team has pivoted its approach to combining technical and legal action to target the abuse of security tools used by a broad spectrum of cybercriminals. Fortra and Microsofts investigation efforts included detection, analysis, telemetry, and reverse engineering, with additional data and insights to strengthen our legal case from a global network of partners, including Health-ISAC, the Fortra Cyber Intelligence Team, and the Microsoft Threat Intelligence team. Our action focuses solely on disrupting cracked, legacy copies of Cobalt Strike and compromised Microsoft software. Disrupting cracked legacy copies of Cobalt Strike significantly hinders cybercriminals ability to monetize and use these illegal copies in cyberattacks. Additionally, the joint litigation involves copyright claims against the malicious use of Microsoft and Fortras software code, which is altered and abused for harm. Continuing the fight against threat actors Fortra has taken considerable steps to prevent the misuse of its software, including stringent customer vetting practices. As criminals have adapted their techniques, Fortra has adapted the security controls in the Cobalt Strike software to eliminate the methods used to crack older versions of Cobalt Strike. While the exact identities of those conducting the criminal operations are currently unknown, Fortra and Microsoft detected malicious infrastructure across the globe, including in China, the United States, and Russia. Responding to this threat will take a coordinated effort from public and private sector entities. One of the best ways that organizations can contribute to a collectively strengthened cybersecurity posture is by aligning with broadly agreed-upon best practices like Zero Trust. This model focuses on using explicit verification, least-privileged access, and assumed breach to disrupt cyber-criminal activity. Microsoft, Fortra and Health-ISAC are also collaborating with the FBI Cyber Division, National Cyber Investigative Joint Task Force (NCIJTF) and Europols European Cybercrime Centre (EC3) on this case. While these actions will impact the criminals immediate operations, the companies anticipate criminals will attempt to revive their efforts. Through ongoing coordinated legal and technical action, Microsoft, Fortra and Health-ISAC will continue to monitor and take action to disrupt further criminal operations, including the use of cracked copies of Cobalt Strike. To stay up to date with the latest trends in cybercriminal activity, visit Microsoft Security Insider. Consular Clerk FSN-6 - closing date June 12, 2023 (Annual Salary: FDJ 2,801,659) The position serves as the principal consular cashier and provides a wide range of administrative assistance to the consular section at the U.S. Embassy Djibouti. The incumbent supports the consular section leadership team with administrative tasks including but not limited to: scheduling appointments, maintenance of office supplies and equipment, travel logistics, and time and attendance. The incumbent also provides additional support for consular tasks such as preparing notarials. Submit application Japanese Yen, USD/JPY, US Dollar, BoJ, Kanda, China PMI, Debt Deal - Talking Points Japanese Yen traders eye elevated intervention possibility The US Dollar is treading water on lower treasury yields ahead of the debt deal China PMI disappointed and growth -associated assets tumbled Trade Smarter - Sign up for the DailyFX Newsletter Receive timely and compelling market commentary from the DailyFX team Subscribe to Newsletter The Japanese Yen rallied toward the end of the Asian session on Wednesday as markets recalibrate the prospect of Japanese authorities intervening in USD/JPY. Masato Kanda, Japans Vice Finance Minister for international affairs, intimated late Tuesday that authorities may act to curd the sinking Yen. He said, "We will closely watch currency market moves and respond appropriately as needed." On the topic of intervention, he further ventured, "If necessary, we won't rule out every option available," The Bank of Japan directly intervened several times last year as USD/JPY climbed. Initial buying of Yen near 137 did little to stem the flow, but the bank persisted and continued selling IUSD/JPY toward the peak near 152. With USD/JPY above 141, the jawboning would seem inevitable in hindsight. There remains potential for more verbal entreaties toward market participants. The BoJs extremely loose monetary policy remains in place for now and todays industrial production for Japan is not seen as helpful for a tilt away from the stance. Month-on-month output for April decreased -0.4% against forecasts of a 1.4% gain and 1.1% prior. Recommended by Daniel McCarthy How to Trade USD/JPY Get My Guide Going into Wednesday the focus for the next few sessions seems to be on the debt deal being passed. Expectations are that it will get over the line after several comments from Washington lawmakers overnight. Aside from USD/JPY, the US Dollar is stronger across the board with the high beta AUD and NZD bearing the brunt of Chinese PMI figures missing estimates. Chinese manufacturing PMI for May printed at 48.8 against the 49.5 anticipated and the non-manufacturing came in at 54.5, against the 55.2 forecast. This combined to give a composite PMI read of 52.9 against 54.4 previously. APAC equities are all in the red with the perspective of slowing growth in the region becoming apparent. South Koreas KOSDAQ is the only bright spot in todays trade. Treasury yields are steady going into the European session after sliding overnight. The 2-year note saw the largest declines, trading toward 4.4% today after nudging 4.64% late last week. The slide in yields boosted gold with the front-month COMEX futures contract now trading back near US$ 1,980, after bouncing off support at US$ 1,936 yesterday. Crude oil remains under pressure after yesterdays collapse. The WTI futures contract is under US$ 69.50 bbl while the Brent contract is below US$ 73.50 bbl. The full economic calendar can be viewed here. USD/JPY LEVLES TO WATCH USD/JPY made a six-month high yesterday at 140.93 and that level may offer resistance ahead of November 2022 peak at 142.25. and a breakpoint near 143.50. On the downside, support may lie at the breakpoints of 138.75, 138.18, 137.91 and 137.77. Chart created in TradingView --- Written by Daniel McCarthy, Strategist for DailyFX.com Please contact Daniel via @DanMcCarthyFX on Twitter Gold, XAU/USD, XAU/EUR Price Action: XAU/ USD is holding above crucial support, thanks to the retreat in US Treasury yields. XAU/ EUR has struggled at key resistance area. What is the outlook and key levels to watch in XAU/USD and XAU/EUR? Recommended by Manish Jaradi How to Trade Gold Get My Guide Gold rose on Tuesday, tracking the decline in US Treasury yields after a deal in Washington to raise the governments debt ceiling, potentially averting a catastrophic government default. But is the short-term downtrend in the yellow metal over? Yields on near-end US Treasury bills fell sharply even as the deal needs to secure blessings from Congress before June 5, when the Treasury Department could run out of funds to pay its debts. A vote on this is expected to occur in the House on Wednesday which gives the Senate time to consider it before June 5. XAU/USD 240-minute Chart Chart Created by Manish Jaradi Using TradingView; Notes at the bottom of the page. However, the upside in gold could be capped by growing odds of another rate hike by the US Federal Reserve at its next meeting. Markets are pricing in a 60% chance of a 25 bps Fed rate hike at the June meeting up from 25% about a week ago, according to the CME FedWatch tool. XAU/USD Daily Chart Chart Created by Manish Jaradi Using TradingView; Notes at the bottom of the page. XAU/USD: Short-term trend remains down On technical charts, XAU/USD remains within a well-defined downtrend channel since early May on the 240-minute charts, a point reinforced by colour-coded candlestick charts, based on trending / momentum indicators. For the immediate downward pressure to fade, the yellow metal needs to break above the 1985-2000 area (including the 200-period moving average and the late-March high on the 240-minute charts). XAU/USD Daily Chart Chart Created by Manish Jaradi Using TradingView On the daily charts, as the colour-coded candlestick charts show, the trend has moved to a consolidation phase within the overall bullish structure. If history is any guide, consolidations can extend from a few days to a few weeks. So far, gold is holding above quite a strong cushion around 1930, including an uptrend line from the end of 2022, the 89-day moving average, and the lower edge of the Ichimoku cloud on the daily charts. This support is crucial, and any break below could open the door toward the 200-day moving average (now at about 1835). XAU/USD 240-minute Chart Chart Created by Manish Jaradi Using TradingView Beyond the daily charts, in recent months, the momentum on higher timeframe charts has been a concern - see previous updateson March 28,April 16,April 24,May 10, May 17, and the most recent Is the Downward Correction in Gold Over?, published May 22. XAU/EUR Monthly Chart Chart Created by Manish Jaradi Using TradingView XAU/EUR: Slowing momentum on higher timeframe charts Like in the case of XAU/USD, the momentum on higher timeframe charts has slowed even as XAU/EUR has made new highs in recent months. Most recently, gold has failed to cross above the March highs of 1865-1885 against the euro. Any break below an uptrend line from early 2021 (at about 1725) would indicate that the upward pressure had faded in XAU/EUR. Note: In the above colour-coded charts, Blue candles represent a Bullish phase. Red candles represent a Bearish phase. Grey candles serve as Consolidation phases (within a Bullish or a Bearish phase), but sometimes they tend to form at the end of a trend. Note: Candle colors are not predictive they merely state what the current trend is. Indeed, the candle color can change in the next bar. False patterns can occur around the 200-period moving average, or around a support/resistance and/or in sideways/choppy market. The author does not guarantee the accuracy of the information. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Users of the information do so at their own risk. Recommended by Manish Jaradi The Fundamentals of Trend Trading Get My Guide --- Written by Manish Jaradi, Strategist for DailyFX.com --- Contact and follow Jaradi on Twitter: @JaradiManish The dismantling of Phillip Schofield's twinkling TV career began not at This Morning but when he was replaced by Tom Bradby as Julie Etchingham's on-screen partner for ITV's coverage of the Coronation. Schofield had a flourishing partnership with Julie commencing at the 2012 Diamond Jubilee followed by Harry and Meghan's 2018 wedding and the Platinum Jubilee in June 2022. So what prompted ITV to fracture the decade long relationship? Deep waters. EPHRAIM HARDCASTLE: The dismantling of Phillip Schofield's (pictured left) twinkling TV career began not at This Morning but when he was replaced by Tom Bradby as Julie Etchingham's on-screen partner for ITV's coverage of the Coronation The ease with which animal rights campaigners snatched three of the King's lambs from Sandringham hasn't impressed His Majesty. A source described him as having a 'meltdown', explaining: 'He has invested in state-of-the-art equipment to stop sheep rustlers and is asking awkward questions about what went wrong.' The King has also ordered a security review at Sandringham where the Royal Stud is located. Stealing sheep is no longer a capital offence, but heads might roll if the King doesn't get answers. The King turning down the heating in the Buck House swimming pool won't perturb William, Kate or their three children. Residing at Windsor, they use the pool commissioned by George VI in 1938 so that his daughters could swim away from prying eyes (they previously swam at the Bath Club in Mayfair). The pool's temperature, says my flunkey in the bespoke budgie smugglers, remains 'toasty'. The King turning down the heating in the Buck House swimming pool won't perturb William, Kate or their three children, writes Ephraim Hardcastle Turning the thermostat down puts King Charles one up on his old friend eco-zealot Al Gore, who won a Nobel prize for his campaigning work much to the chagrin of the King who had been preaching the green message since Al was in short trousers. A 2017 report showed that the amount of energy used to heat the swimming pool at Mr Gore's Tennessee retreat for the year was equivalent to heating six average homes for the same period. 'Well, I don't have a private jet,' he explained. 'And I live a carbon-free lifestyle, to the maximum extent possible.' Well, that's all right then! Seeking a female star for his play 2:22 A Ghost Story at the tail end of the pandemic, writer Danny Robins asked theatre aficionados: 'Who would you catch Covid for?' Adding: 'We knew that we had to have somebody in the cast who people were prepared to take on that risk for.' Lily Allen, pictured, fitted the bill. Her performances at the Noel Coward Theatre earned her an Olivier award nomination. Lily Allen's performances at the Noel Coward Theatre earned her an Olivier award nomination Awkwardly publicising his long-delayed portrayal of Jimmy Savile for the BBC, Alan Partridge star Steve Coogan admits that he has no idea when it will eventually be transmitted. 'I think the BBC, to be fair to them... are in a damned if they do, damned if they don't situation,' he says, adding: 'It certainly won't be part of the Christmas schedule.' Some have taken issue with the Archbishop of Canterbury and other bishops for opposing the Government's plans to deal with migrants crossing the Channel. But I think we should accept that Justin Welby and other prelates are acting in good faith. Moreover, it is certain though some Tories may not like to face this fact that Jesus spoke up constantly for the poor and downtrodden. 'Blessed are the poor' is one of Our Lord's beatitudes, according to St Luke's Gospel. (St Matthew amends this to 'Blessed are the poor in spirit'.) Throughout his ministry, Jesus was on the side of the poor in what was a generally impoverished society in which most people fell into that category. Selective So the other day I nodded to myself when I read the remarks of the Archbishop's spokesman, after the bishops had tried to scupper the Government's flagship Illegal Migration Bill in the House of Lords. According to this spokesman: 'The bishops in the Lords will continue to speak out for those who are fleeing violence and persecution and seeking safety and keep calling for an asylum system that reflects our values, moral responsibilities and place within the international community.' The Archbishop of Canterbury (pictured) at the entrance to Westminster Abbey ahead of the King's coronation Fair enough. One can't easily quarrel with that. The bishops are rooting for the victims, or for people they choose to see as victims, and such sympathy is in the Christian tradition. The trouble is that Welby and Co are dependably selective. They concentrate on one kind of victims foreigners crossing the Channel. They seldom, if ever, spare a thought for innocent British victims. I was struck by this thought when I read an incredible statistic, which practically made my eyes pop out of my head. According to the National Crime Agency, 80 Albanian migrants some of whom may have been here legally have been sentenced to a collective 130 years in jail in the first four months of this year alone. These people have been convicted of murder, manslaughter, rape, violent disorder, firearm offences, kidnap, causing death by dangerous driving, burglary and the illegal production of cannabis. A second statistic, revealed by the Home Office, was equally mind-boggling. Some 12,800 Albanians who entered the UK illegally have broken their bail conditions in 15 months from the beginning of last year. In all, 44,957 migrants of all nationalities breached their bail conditions during this period. Let's stick with the Albanians for a bit. It appears thousands of them are slipping away into the wider community and, unless charged with a crime, may well never cross the authorities' radar again. Some might say that the figure of 80 Albanians being found guilty of serious crimes in four months isn't a high one. I disagree. After all, the clear up rate of burglary in London and many other parts of the country is less than 5 per cent, and of muggings even less. Many culprits will have slipped through the net. Moreover, the cost of imprisoning the 80 Albanians unfortunate, or careless, enough to be apprehended is 57,000 per criminal per year (more than the fees at Eton) and 20 million to house all these offenders for their time in jail. This is no small thing. Another interesting fact is that there are more Albanians in prison 1,393 at the latest count than any other foreign nationality. Under a new agreement made by the Government, Albanians convicted of more than four years in jail face deportation. Britain is paying 14 million to upgrade Albanian prisons. I don't want to pick on Albanians, most of whom are doubtless very nice people. Indeed, I have a friend who employs an Albanian woman who is both saintly and hard-working. It is also the case that, as a result of a deal done by the Home Office with the government of Albania, the number of illegal migrants emanating from that country has fallen dramatically from about a quarter of the overall total last year. Nonetheless, it can be reasonably supposed that a proportion of those from all countries who have crossed the Channel in small boats, and continue to do so, are not as honest and law-abiding as, say, your average Church of England bishop. This emphasises the need to re-establish control of our borders. For although it has recently been pointed out that many more legal migrants come to this country than illegal ones, those in the former category can be properly checked, and have in almost all cases come here to work rather than rape, steal and grow cannabis. Pressure Not that I suggest that a majority of the second category of illegal migrants are hell-bent on a life of crime. Of course not. But it would appear that the thoughts of a minority of them are tending in that direction. READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE Fifty migrants on boat in the middle of English Channel refuse to be rescued by French warshipso UK Border Force picks them up and brings them to Dover Advertisement Every crime has a victim, sometimes more than one. And yet I am prepared to bet that no archbishop or bishop has ever stood up in the House of Lords to express one iota of compassion for a victim of a crime committed by an illegal immigrant. Nor is it likely that any high ecclesiastic will ever do so. Justin Welby has probably never spared a thought for those who have been burgled or worse by someone who had flitted across the Channel, jumped bail and vanished into the general population. Nor do I suppose it has ever occurred to him that an illegal immigrant, whether virtuous or not, will put extra pressure on hard-pressed public services funded by home-grown Britons. In other words, victimhood is really only of interest to the bishops as it applies to people crossing the Channel. Their agenda is at least partly driven by political considerations. Christian compassion should surely not pick and choose. Am I being unfair? I suppose if Justin Welby were with us now, he'd insist that he has agreed illegal migration across the Channel should be stopped, and has produced some proposals to that end. Exclusion All I can say is that his ideas offering alternative legal routes, and speeding up the backlog of asylum seekers don't seem likely to stem the ever rising tide. Even he has admitted in a newspaper article that 'no solution can stop Channel crossings entirely'. I don't suggest the Government is making rapid progress, but you can't fault it for trying. I remain sceptical about sending migrants to Rwanda for the simple reason that it is a virtual dictatorship. But it must be almost unendurable for the Government to be lectured by the Archbishop of Canterbury for behaving immorally his word when his own moral preoccupations are focused on one lot of victims to the exclusion of others. In many other areas, of course, the bishops are out of kilter not only with the wider population but even their own congregations. For example, nearly all of them are believed to have voted Remain in 2016, whereas, according to one piece of fascinating research, 66 per cent of churchgoing Anglicans voted Leave. Is it possible, even likely, that Justin Welby makes judgments about the effects of illegal migration not so much through the prism of Jesus's teaching as the editorial pages of the Guardian newspaper? Those crossing the Channel in boats are not the only victims. One of Gordon Browns first acts on becoming chancellor in 1997 was to plunder private pension funds via a crippling 5.6billion a year tax raid. The effect was to kill off final salary schemes outside the public sector and sow huge instability from which the system has not fully recovered. Now, it seems Labour is planning to target pension funds again this time by potentially forcing them to transfer 5 per cent of their capital (estimated at 50billion) into a growth fund. The idea is that this fund would invest more heavily in higher-risk, fast-growing UK companies rather than more stable assets, such as gilts. But do most pension savers want more risks to be taken with their money? And who would administer this fund and dictate where its money would go? If Labour wins the next election, Sir Keir Starmer (pictured) would stop drilling for oil and gas in the North Sea and end non-dom status The head of Schroders, one of the Citys biggest asset managers, warns that such state interference in private pensions could have dire effects. But based on past record, Labour will find the temptation impossible to resist. Indeed, as Sir Keir Starmers policy platform begins to emerge from the fog of obfuscation, its becoming clear it will be far more Left-wing than he will admit. Proposals for a self-defeating North Sea drilling ban have raised cheers from the eco-zealots of Just Stop Oil (funded by major Labour donor Dale Vince). There are plans for councils to compulsorily purchase private land at knock-down prices, and punitive tax raids on independent schools, which would force many out of business. Sir Keir would drive wealthy foreign individuals out of Britain by ending non-dom status and there are strong rumours of planned increases in inheritance and capital gains taxes. It is an interventionist agenda fuelled by the politics of envy. Traditional Tory voters are understandably angry for the chaos of recent times and may be tempted to give their party a bloody nose at the next election. Before doing so they should look very carefully at the alternative. Jeremy Corbyn may have been banished but his statist, class-warrior spirit is still very much alive in todays Labour Party. Good day for freedom Professor Kathleen Stock (pictured) faced opposition from trans activists while speaking at the Oxford University Union It is central to the notion of a liberal democracy that minority views and beliefs must be staunchly defended. Freedom of expression, association and worship are for the few, not just the many. In todays topsy-turvy Britain, however, it is the rights and opinions of the majority that are too frequently drowned out by shrill minorities. At Oxford University, once a bubbling cauldron of ideas and passionate debate, some 200 trans activists tried yesterday to prevent feminist academic Dr Kathleen Stock from speaking at the Union. Her offence, in the eyes of this Orwellian herd, is to believe a biological man can never truly become a woman whether by self-declaration, hormone treatment or surgery. Is this such a dangerous view that students must be protected from it? Of course not. Indeed, it is one surely shared by the majority of the population. Fortunately free speech won the day. The demonstrators shouted their facile slogans and one glued themselves to the floor. But after a brief delay the debate went ahead as planned. Could it be that the tide of woke intolerance is turning? The Government wants to send asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing. The courts have ruled that the scheme is perfectly lawful. Yet Home Office staff threaten to strike rather than implement it. They, like so much of the Whitehall Blob, need reminding they are paid to carry out government policy. If they want to dictate it, they should stand for election. The Saville inquiry into Bloody Sunday lumbered on for 12 long years at a cost of some 200million, generating plenty of heat but precious little new light on the events of that appalling day. More recently the inquiry into child sex abuse, set up in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal, lasted seven years and cost 186million. It gave hundreds of victims the opportunity to tell their heart-rending stories but whether it will achieve much in policy terms is a moot point. The truth is that by the time these probes were completed, most people had lost sight of why they were set up in the first place. Now it looks as though the Covid inquiry will dwarf them both. Announced two years ago it has already cost 100million, long before calling its first witness. Now it looks as though the Covid inquiry will dwarf them both. Announced two years ago it has already cost 100million, long before calling its first witness. Pictured: The National Covid Memorial Wall READ MORE: Boris Johnson claims he has 'no objection' to Covid inquiry as ministers have two days left to hand over the former PM's diaries and messages Advertisement The Cabinet Office has handed over 55,000 documents. But inquiry chief Baroness Hallett is demanding more. She wants all communication, personal as well as professional, sent to and from Boris Johnson throughout the pandemic WhatsApp messages, private diaries etc. To his credit, Mr Johnson has complied, sending all his unredacted notebooks and messages to the Cabinet Office saying they should be 'urgently disclosed'. The ball is now in Downing Street's court. If successful in acquiring this information, Lady Hallett may well demand similar releases from Rishi Sunak and dozens of other ministers, advisers and civil servants. With the hearings already expected to run to mid-2026, this tsunami of extra material, all of which will have to be pored over, is hardly likely to speed up proceedings. This paper believes passionately in open government and applauds Mr Johnson's frankness. But there are dangers inherent in the principle of opening up every exchange between ministers and officials to public inspection. Removing the right to hold any private conversations or meetings could have a baleful effect on the machinery of government, with politicians and their advisers unwilling to speak freely for fear of future recriminations. Confidential exchanges between journalists and those who run the country could also become impossible, profoundly affecting press freedom. The current situation is that the Cabinet Office has agreed to hand over material it regards as relevant, while Lady Hallett insists on having everything, saying it is for her to decide what is relevant. We sincerely hope common sense will prevail without the need for legal action, which would slow this inquiry down to an even more glacial pace and benefit only lawyers. It's worth noting that the Swedes have already completed their own Covid inquiry. We should follow their example and get on with it. Rail union wreckers Train drivers are among the best paid of all public service workers, with an average salary of 60,000, generous overtime payments and gold-plated pensions. Yet rather than accept a fair pay rise for this year and next, their union Aslef is engaged in a campaign of spiteful strike action designed to cause maximum disruption with more stoppages to come. Strikes have already cost the rail companies 1billion since June last year. The union's truculence is wrecking the industry and may ultimately put many of its own members out of a job. Just Stop Oil backer and multi-millionaire environmental activist Dale Vince says his 1.4million donations to Labour had no strings attached. However he admits that he spoke to Sir Keir Starmer just days before Labour sources said that if elected, the party would ban new drilling in the North Sea. Coincidence? Or a tawdry example of Labour selling its soul to the highest bidder? Princess Diana's unique fashion looks never failed to make a statement, with bold colours, statement jewellery and over-the-top designs. And when her young sons Prince William and Prince Harry began to appear in public together, the princess made sure they too would not go unnoticed - often choosing to dress them up in matching outfits. Diana seemed to pass on her more adventurous taste in clothing and the boys would appear in styles varying from traditional long blue dress coats to bright emerald green shorts with knee-length socks for the red carpet. As a proud mother, she would even coordinate herself with her sons' outfits, using clothes to show the close relationship she had with her children. Princess Diana arrived at Aberdeen airport with her sons Prince William and Prince Harry to start their summer holidays in Balmoral, Scotland in 1989. The boys donned matching striped shorts with a bold red jumper Prince Harry and Prince William wore matching striped polo shirts and blue shorts to a polo match at Smiths Lawn, Windsor in June 1987 Prince William held hands with his cousin Peter Phillips and his mother as the pair sported matching blue coats for the Easter Service at St George's Chapel, Windsor in 1987 In the documentary Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and Legacy released in 2017, William and Harry opened up about their mother 20 years after her death. Prince Harry joked about the strange outfits his mother chose for himself and his brother, saying: 'I genuinely think that she got satisfaction out of dressing myself and William up in the most bizarre outfits - normally matching. 'It was weird shorts and you know like, little sort of shiny shoes with the old clip on. Looking back at the photos it just makes me laugh I just think: "How could you do that to us?" 'And then funnily enough, we got to the age when William would turn round and go: "Oh, this is ridiculous, you know, Im the older brother, why do I have to be dressed the same as him?" 'And Im sort of sitting there going: "Hang on a second, if youre going to dress differently, Im not going to be the only person dressed like this this is just ridiculous!"' Diana's habit of dressing her two sons in matching outfits was reportedly infuriating to William, as revealed in Harry's explosive memoir Spare. He wrote that his older brother hated it when anyone thought they were the 'package deal' and they were dressed in the same outfits. While Prince Harry said he barely took any notice of what anyone was wearing, he said his mother's choice of outfits for the children made them look like Tweedledum and Tweedledee from Alice in Wonderland. Diana and Harry were colour coordinated in green and white as they stood on the balcony of Buckingham Palace for Trooping the Colour in 1988 Prince William and Prince Harry wore identical black jackets with grey trousers and a blue spotted tie on a visit to Great Ormond Street for Children in April 1992 Prince Harry also owned a matching pale blue overcoat which which he wore alongside Prince William when playing on a fire engine at Sandringham in January 1988 The brothers accompanied Princess Diana to the Royal Tournament at Olympia wearing eye-catching green shorts teamed with black jackets, shirts and ties in 1988 The pair sported identical sweatshirts watching their father play polo with their nanny at Guards Polo Club in 1987 Prince Harry and Prince William both wore red polo shirts and jeans as they played with polo mallets at Cirencester Park Polo Club in 1990 Princess Diana's white shirt offset the white sweatshirts worn by the royal brothers with their matching yellow shorts, white shocks and black buckled shoes at Aberdeen airport in 1986 The royal siblings were spotted in white polo shirts and pale blue shorts on the steps of the Marivent Palace in Mallorca while on holiday with the Spanish royal family in August 1988 Princess Diana was pictured with her sons at Le Cirque du Soleil where they wore matching pale blue striped shirts as they posed with members of the circus A family photograph in 1986 at Kensington Palace saw the boys in matching pale blue shirts accompanied by white tank tops and red shorts with matching red shoes to finish off the look Prince William and Prince Harry wore matching burgundy coats and grey shorts when attending the christening of Princess Beatrice at the Chapel Royal, St James's Palace in December 1988 Princess Diana's Black jacket and grey skirt matched the boys colour scheme with black jackets and grey shorts whilst visiting Father Christmas When Peter Magnani started feeling 'out of sorts', he struggled to put his finger on why. Happily married with two children and a successful career in advertising and media, Peter's life ticked all the right boxes, yet something wasn't right. Peter, 60, from London, felt stressed, often anxious and sometimes angry, but he was unable to untangle it to understand what was causing him to feel this way. So, in 2015, he started journalling, writing for 30 minutes daily. He began to notice patterns emerging that would explain his emotions, from simple things like he thought his caffeine intake was the reason he wasn't sleeping well, but the real trigger was worrying about his increased spending. Peter Magnani, 60, from London, started journalling as a way to manage stress in his life When people began to comment on the difference in Peter's wellbeing, he knew he wanted others to benefit as he had, and the concept for his new business - Beam - was born. But, realising how time-poor people are, Peter's lightbulb moment was to turn his idea into an app. In 2019, he launched Beam, an AI powered self-management tool that uses behavioural analytics to improve people's lives. The technology works by analysing data from tools and apps and then pinpointing which parts are having a negative and positive effect. The app is then able to offer practical steps the individual needs to join the dots by seeing the whole picture. The Beam app monitors all aspects of your life to help you identify patterns Peter said: 'It started as a combination of my own challenges and stresses built up over many years. I tried everything to try to manage it - from being prescribed antidepressants, which I didn't need, and going out a lot, to meditation and getting fitter. They're all important at helping alleviate the symptoms of stress but I wanted to understand the root causes.'I wanted to help myself and get to the bottom of these micro-stresses that everyone gets. I started journalling where I plonked down everything in my brain - from my mum's not well, to how the kids are getting on at school, to when will I get that bonus. 'I could immediately see patterns that explained why I was feeling certain things on particular days that I wasn't otherwise aware of. Putting my life on a page really clarified things and motivated me, rather than everything being fuzzy. 'I immediately felt better. People around me saw the difference in me. I would tell them what I was doing, but they would say they didn't have time to do it. I then thought about using technology to join the dots and put these patterns together - I was motivated as well by my children as I didn't want them to feel how I felt. I wanted to create a tool to help them, other people, and organisations that support their staff's well being 'Through my job I worked with a lot of customer data and I thought what if you could take health data, spending data, screen time data and other things and try to get a holistic picture of people's lives.' Thanks to its unique machine learning-powered technology, Beam analyses more than 250 behavioural and emotional indicators across everything from fitness and sleep trackers to screen time and social media habits as well as spending habits - from coffee and fast food to utilities and mortgages. This data is then analysed to predict users' specific emotional triggers and behaviour patterns, linking them to practical support on areas such as motivation, social media, controlling fear, families, managing money, dating, gaming and side hustles. Beam helps users work out how they can improve aspect of their lives that need help Peter said: 'You're living your life, but you're not monitoring your life. 'The brain is so complex and there are so many zillions of those things that affect the way you feel. Our mantra is if we can give someone a 50 per cent improvement in emotional intelligence, and self knowledge, that's gold dust. 'You get the pattern. Immediately we'll allocate you a pathway with four simple steps, practical advice, to complete. Once you've done that, it will affect your overall Beam score - Beam adds up everything to show how stressed or resilient you are. 'The Pathways are identified and users are linked to practical, personalised solutions that help maintain a strong foundation of physical, mental and financial strength.' Peter explained how Beam, which is self-funded, has been developed on the foundations of 'open data for good' and 'helping people to help themselves' by empowering them to better manage everyday stresses and prevent them building up into anxiety or depression. Although the app is currently free to use, when it's changed to a paid-for medium, Peter said he wanted it to be affordable, at 3.99 a month. THE RESULTS: Cost: 4,900 Ad impressions (how many times the ads were viewed): 1.3million Massive conversion rate Clicks to website: 643 'I'll definitely be using Ad Manager again - it's brilliant!' Wanting to spread the word far and wide about his start-up, Peter booked a campaign with MailOnline's Ad Manager platform, which gives business owners the opportunity to market their products to its 25 million weekly readers. The dynamic platform has been launched to help small and medium-size businesses thrive. It allows entrepreneurs to target potential customers by postcode, interests or life stage - all at an incredibly affordable price. It's also straight-forward to use. Business owners can easily create their own campaign, set the budget and the target audience - and it can be live in less than 24 hours. Peter, who prior to Beam worked in the media industry at Interpublic and Omnicom across brands such as Apple, Google and Vodafone, was amazed by the results. During the four-week campaign, his advert had 1.3 million impressions which resulted in 643 clicks through to the Beam website. But it was the number of downloads that most impressed Peter. 'It was only a 4, 900 campaign, so it was a test really, but it was brilliant as our sign ups went up and we had 150 downloads of the app. As a conversation rate, it's absolutely amazing,' Peter said. 'We also saw nearly 660 clicks to the website, which is around a 60 per cent increase in web views. 'The overall support we had while using the Ad Manager platform was amazing. Everything was well explained. I would definitely be using it again and I would definitely recommend it to other businesses.' Peter's app is available on the App Store now and is currently free to download So what's next for the entrepreneur? 'We need to get it out to as many people as possible, so we can keep building and improving the app,' he said. 'I've decided that the platform isn't going to have advertising. It's personal data for people's good. I want this to be data for good. So at some stage we'll be going for investment, that would be the next phase. 'I'd love for Stephen Bartlett to see it as so many people have said to me it's something he would be interested in. Who knows, maybe the next step is Dragons' Den!' But Anne seems to have been a huge influence on Elizabeth as queen Elizabeth I was still aged two when her mother Anne Boleyn was executed Although Elizabeth I was still a toddler when her mother was put to death by Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn appears to have had a major influence on her daughter's reign - and might even be responsible for her remaining single. Speaking at the Hay literary festival, historian Tracey Borman suggested that the trauma of her mother's execution is likely to have had a profound effect. Borman said: '[Elizabeth] was given to nervous fits, as they were described, and often stomach complaints. 'She had migraines. It was very obvious that she had been literally traumatised by her early history and, when she was pressed on the issue of marriage, she would become almost hysterical.' While Queen Elizabeth I (pictured) was not yet three years old when her mother was executed, the influence of the event would stay with her for the rest of her life Anne Boleyn (pictured), the second wife of Henry VIII was executed on May 19, 1536, on her husband's orders Elizabeth witnessed her father, Henry VIII (pictured), go through four more wives - each discarded wife serving as a reminder of her mother's tragic fate According to a Guardian report of the event, Borman, said the 'popular myth' that Elizabeth I did not think much of her mother, could not be further from the truth. Detailing how Elizabeth wore Anne's iconic 'A' pendant in secret as she sat for a painting with her father and siblings, Borman said: 'Elizabeth's actions speak louder than words'. Her refusal to marry 'went beyond her politics', Borman believes. She added: 'Anne had left an indelible mark on Elizabeth, physically as well as emotionally.' Both Elizabeth and Anne were heavily influenced by Marguerite of Navarre, the Princess of France, who introduced Boleyn to the feminist ideas of Christine de Pizan. Christine de Pizan was a medieval writer who advocated for women's equality. Her works included poetry and novels, as well as literary, political, and religious commentary. In her later years, Elizabeth was also introduced to the work of Marguerite of Navarre through her stepmother Catherine Parr. Pictured: The execution of Anne Boleyn after she was found guilty of adultery and was to be beheaded at the Tower of London The trauma of losing her mother at a young age would have psychologically affected Elizabeth Through her translation of one of Marguerite's most famous works, the poem Miroir de l'ame pecheresse, Borman views this as 'a real tribute to her late mother'. She believes the so-called Virgin Queen actually was a virgin: 'She had come to equate sex with death from a very early age.' Both women broke the mould for women in Britain at the time, as Anne's work in reforming the country's religious traditions provided the perfect starting point for Elizabeth's 45-year reign without a husband. Interior design expert Dara Huang has revealed the three things which are making your home look cheap. The Harvard-educated architect, 40, is the glamorous ex-fiancee of Prince Beatrice's husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and made her TV debut on Channel 4s The Big Interiors Battle this month. Dara is a judge on the show with host AJ Odudu, as eight hopefuls battle it out to win a mortgage-free apartment in a search for the next big interior designer. And now she has revealed the three ways you could be cheapening the look of your home - and the easy ways to fix it. In an Instagram video shared with her 52,000 followers, Dara revealed: 'Three things that make your place look cheap. Interior design expert Dara Huang, 40, has revealed the three things which are making your home look cheap 'Firstly, curtains which are too short. They should actually be a tad bit longer. 'Houseplants that look fake. They can be fake, but they can't look it.' She continued to her third tip, which was a ban on visible wires, saying: 'Last but not least, make sure you hide your cords, however clever way you think.' Sharing the video, she wrote: 'Sharing the video, she wrote: 'Relaxing in the space we designed at @greenwich.peninsula. 'Achieving the final result involves an intricate process, consuming time and the collective effort of our amazing teams @dhliberty and @daramaison, along with years of invaluable experience. 'But fear not, we have some pointers that anyone can incorporate to elevate their own designs.' She continued: 'Now, was it helpful? Are you going to implement any of these? 'Stay inspired, and happy designing, everyone.' Dara, who shares her seven-year-old son Wolfie with Edo, has an undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, where she grew up, and then attended Harvard for a Masters in Architecture. The Harvard-educated architect, 40, is the glamorous ex-fiancee of Prince Beatrice's husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and made her TV debut on Channel 4s The Big Interiors Battle this month Following her graduation from Harvard, she worked at architectural firms across Europe, including Herzog de Meuron in Switzerland and Foster + Partners in London. Dara became engaged to Edoardo in 2017 after the pair met in 2015. One year later, they had their son. However, their relationship was short-lived and they parted ways in 2018, just weeks before rumours broke out that Edo and Princess Beatrice were in a relationship. When asked if it was love at first sight, she previously told Lifestyle Asia: 'He was the father of my child, and he left as quickly as he came, so I would say unfortunately its not an instinct you can trust!' Dara, whose father emigrated from Taiwan to the US before he became a NASA scientist, has spoken openly about being a child of immigrants on social media. In March last year, she wrote on Instagram: 'What does an immigrant look like? My mother was an immigrant of war; leaving everything she had to flee to Taiwan. Dara explained that curtains should be a 'tad too long' for windows, while electricity cords should be hidden away Dara (left) made her debut as a judge on the Channel 4 show Big Interiors Battle with host AJ Odudu (right) 'My father, was the only child of 7 who could afford to be educated. He immigrated to the USA on a full scholarship. 'After, he served the US government for 40 years at NASA (once part of the military) and pledged his allegiance to defend his new country.' She added: 'I am an immigrant of the United Kingdom. The values of working hard, appreciating opportunity, not taking things for granted and fighting for a better life were the values that I was taught led by the two best examples. We all received dual citizenship.' She continued: 'Immigration can be a wonderful thing; a contribution to society, a creation of new prosperity and the beginning of hope. Let's open our hearts and help those around us, at this time.' Dara established her own architecture and interior design company, Design Haus Liberty and founded Vivahouse, which converts disused commercial properties into living spaces. Before marrying Princess Beatrice, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, was engaged to Dara, a very glamorous American architect with her own design company Dara, pictured at the Brit Awards, has worked on projects including the Tate Modern Museum in London and the Tribeca skyscraper in New York She has worked on projects including the Tate Modern Museum in London and the Tribeca skyscraper in New York. It is clear she believes in hard work, telling the show: It makes me happy that none of the contestants are spoiled or come with a silver spoon in their mouth. They are kind and come from hard-working families like myself. Dara was granted British citizenship in January 2022 - she announced the news with a picture holding her new citizenship in front of a Union Flag and a portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth. She currently lives in Kensington, west London, with her seven-year-old son. A naive college student from America and his pals had Londoners cracking up with their complaint about being in one of the capitals gay hotspots. Posting to the social media forum Reddit, many other users thought the comment was worthy of being placed in the esteemed 'Reddit Hall of Fame'. After visiting a bar in Soho, known for its vibrant nightlight and bustling gay community, the disgruntled drinker decided to share his discontent on the subreddit London. He wrote: Last night, my friend and I experienced Soho, and we were not impressed. The drinks were expensive (thats to be expected) but it didnt help like every bar was 90 per cent dudes. Also, it seemed like an older crowd. A college student from America was mocked online for complaining on Reddit that there were 'too many men' while he was out drinking in Soho, apparently oblivious to the fact it is home to one of the city's biggest gay communities (stock image) Also lots of creepy guys. Seemed like a centre for tourists to drink? We are college students by the way. The post was soon picked up and flooded with comments, getting upvoted almost 3,000 times. Naturally, Londoners were quick to good-naturedly mock the American friends for their comment. One person replied: Hahaha. 90% blokes in a bar in Soho? Well, I would never Londoners couldn't resist teasing the American guy for moaning about too many men being out in a gay part of the city, but some offered helpful advice and a bit of a history lesson Was Judy Garland and Cher blasting from the speakers?, quipped a fifth follower, with another responding, I think it was mostly Abba and Eurovision songs. Finally spelling it out for the college students, someone else added: oh honey.... you walked into the gay district of London and are complaining that it was all guys. Honey.... oh honey. Since writing the post the American man wrote an edit to his original post, adding: Oh god, indicating he's now realised his mistake. He added: 'A friend told us to go there. I think we got played. From what Ive gathered there is non gay bars. 'We kind of were on the gay street and the other bars around were nowhere to be found so we kind of just gave up. I think we just didnt walk around enough.' People couldn't believe that spotting Pride flags outside pubs such as the Admiral Duncan did not give it away Soho and the West End have been a haven for gay Londoners for hundreds of years and are packed full of incredible and inclusive places to eat, drink and have fun. It is one of Londons most popular places to visit for locals and tourists alike with places like the forever popular G-A-Y club or The Admiral Duncan pub. Someone needs to pin OP's post. This is hall of fame material, added another user. Someone else gushed: This post really made my day. Thanks so much, OP. Another Redditer joked: Were there colourful banners posted up on these bars you speak of? Another commenter warned that things could have been worse, saying that Soho was once 'the red light district and "sexertainment" area, full of sex shops, mysterious doors with signs on announcing 'model upstairs' and seedy basement strip bars with enormous bouncers who would 'persuade' the unsuspecting punters to pay for the 200 bottle of "champagne" they never ordered before being allowed to leave the premesis.' And someone tried to offer advice to the unsuspecting students, by suggesting other venues in London they might enjoy. They added: 'I mean, the great entertainment you provided us and being a good sport here warrants actual help. 'Yes, Soho is historically a gay area and has become touristy. Still a great place to hang out regardless of your age.' An American environmental activist has revealed how he uses leaves to wipe himself after going to the bathroom on a composting toilet - and previously used to opt for clean napkins people were throwing away. Robin Greenfield, 36, appeared on This Morning today to discuss his bathroom preferences and encourage viewers to think about how their toilet paper is made, using 'fossil fuels, water and causing destruction'. Speaking from North Carolina, Robin explained to hosts Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary how the average person spends '$11,000 on loo rolls in their lifetime'. 'I did the math, that's two months of your working life, and I just said at that time, I'm not wiping my butt with my money anymore,' explained the activist, who reportedly hasn't purchased toilet paper in a decade. He added: 'It took me a while, at first I just used napkins that people were throwing away, they haven't been used but people are throwing them away. Robin Greenfield (pictured), 36, appeared on This Morning today to discuss his bathroom preferences and encourage viewers to think about how their toilet paper is made, using 'fossil fuels, water and causing destruction' 'But after five years, a friend introduced me to a toilet paper plant, he gave me a cutting and within a year I had a toilet paper plant that was... growing enough leaves for I would say a family of five.' He told how there's two different types of 'toilet paper plant', which are soft and durable. The leaves can last at least three weeks sitting in your bathroom once picked from the plant. Robin said of his campaign: 'I'm this guy that wipes my butt with leaves, and a lot of people think "oh man, this guy's crazy, he's wiping his butt with leaves", and it wasn't until me, doing this campaign for a while, realised "wait a sec, everybody who is wiping their butt with toilet paper is wiping their butt with leaves too". 'The difference is they have an industry between them that uses a lot of fossil fuels and water, and causes destruction to create these... I just cut out the middle man.' He added: 'This is a big funny thing, but really it's incredibly serious... really what I'm here to do is to create critical thinking.' Speaking from North Carolina, Robin (pictured) explained to hosts Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary how the average person spends '$11,000 on loo rolls in their lifetime' Earlier this month, Robin embarked on a two-week tour of Florida's6 major cities to raise awareness for his Grow Your Own Toilet Paper Initiative. The goal is to encourage people to use green leaves from the blue spur flower plant also known as the 'toilet paper plant' in the bathroom instead of stocking up on store-bought toilet paper. 'I want to show people that another way is possible,' he told People. 'We live in this consumer culture where most of us don't really know where things come from, how they get to us, and what the impact it is that it has on the earth. And toilet paper's no exception. We just buy it at the store and we never think twice about it.' As part of his campaign, he parked his compost toilet in bustling areas of each city with his toilet paper plant on one side and packages of store-bought toilet paper on the other to grab people's attention. 'It's really a way to catch people in the moment. They'll say, "Whoa, you can do that? You can grow your own toilet paper?"' he said. 'And then I share with them that this is possible and that it's possible for us to grow so many things that can break us free from consumerism.' Robin explained on his website that when he moved to Orlando in 2018, he planted two cuttings of the toilet paper plant that a friend gave him. 'Within one year I had a TP bush abundant enough to support a family of five, plus cuttings to share with hundreds of friends each year so they could grow their own TP too!' he wrote. 'I did the math, that's two months of your working life, and I just said at that time, I'm not wiping my butt with my money anymore,' explained the activist (pictured right), who reportedly hasn't purchased toilet paper in a decade. Not only are the leaves environmentally friendly, but he insisted there are also other benefits to using them instead of traditional toilet paper. According to Robin, the leaves smell like mint and are 'softer than many toilet papers on the market.' They are also 'strong and durable' enough that 'your fingers will not break through when wiping.' 'The leaves often grow about the same size as a store-bought piece of toilet paper,' he explained. 'On dewy mornings, these furry leaves hold onto moisture. So the TP Plant doubles as a wet wipe!' Using leaves also reduces the energy needed to manufacture and distribute toilet paper while saving money. 'If you have a flush toilet, you can place a small bucket next to your toilet to place your used leaves. Then take them outside and compost them,' Robin advises on his site. He is an advocate for composting, but the dirty leaves can also be thrown into the rubbish. When it comes to saving the environment, he is known for going to extremes to get his point across. Over the past decade, he has lived with just 44 possessions, bathed in only natural water resources, gone dumpster diving for food, and worn a plastic suit filled with his own garbage to encourage sustainable living. Robin told People that his ultimate goal is to get people to grow their own toilet paper and then start composting their poo to prevent water pollution, avoid freshwater waste, and build the soil to help feed more people. Prince William has officially partnered up with YouTube to produce his Earthshot Prize content, it has been announced. The Prince of Wales, 40, set up the Earthshot Prize in 2020 in a bid to find 'extraordinary solutions to the world's greatest environmental challenges'. It has now been announced that, as part of a two year partnership, The Earthshot Prize will work with YouTube to produce content which 'inspires users to drive action against climate change with stories of urgent optimism from around the world.' Content will include mini-documentaries and Q&As with the finalists of the awards to YouTube Shorts and creator collaborations. The partnership comes after Harry reportedly pocketed 88million as part of a multi-year deal with streaming giant Netflix, which produced his recent docuseries with Meghan Markle. Prince William, 40, has officially partnered up with YouTube to produce his Earthshot Prize content, it has been announced As part of Prince William's collaboration with the video giant, YouTube will 'support the growth of The Earthshot Prize YouTube channel' and build an engaged sustainability community. Meanwhile the organisation will also work to help the Prize reach younger and more international audiences who care passionately about climate change. Pedro Pina, Head of YouTube Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: 'Sustainability matters to us, it matters to the creator community that calls YouTube home and it matters to viewers, particularly younger viewers who are demanding we all take greater care of our planet. 'Our vision is to make YouTube the world's leading destination for awareness, education, and action on the global climate crisis and partnering with The Earthshot Prize allows us to raise the voices of authoritative experts on this important issue.' He continued: 'It also provides an opportunity to spotlight and celebrate the innovative solutions presented by the finalists for this year's award.' Meanwhile Hannah Jones, CEO, The Earthshot Prize, said: 'At The Earthshot Prize we want to incentivise innovation and change to help repair our planet and partnering with YouTube, one of the world's biggest platforms, allows us to do that on a truly global scale. 'We look forward to collaborating on exciting content that will inspire urgent optimism and action and help audiences better understand the climate challenges we face.' The Prince and Princess of Wales will travel to Singapore later this year for the final of William's environmental award. The partnership comes after Harry reportedly pocketed 88million as part of a multi-year deal with streaming giant Netflix, which produced his recent docuseries with Meghan Markle During the event the five winners of The Earthshot Prize 2023 will be awarded 1million. The couple will travel to the south east Asian country in November after it was selected as the destination of the third annual awards ceremony for the Prince's Earthshot prize. The Sussexes released their $100 million docuseries Harry & Meghan with the streaming giant Netflix last December. And last month, it was reported the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are in talks to front a new Netflix documentary which will see them meeting communities in South Africa. The Sunday Mirror reports Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, 41, will be shown helping to build houses in the villages they will visit with the series thought to take a 'humanitarian' focus as Meghan brings awareness to safe birthing practices. The Prince and Princess of Wales will travel to Singapore later this year for the final of William's environmental award A source told the newspaper: 'The cameras will follow [The Sussexes] as they visit compounds and share medical education'. They added the production will be a combined project from Netflix and the couple's Archewell Foundation. The source revealed: 'Meghan is particularly keen to share information about giving birth safely with the women she meets.' Harry and Meghan's reported project in South Africa will be their third in conjunction with Netflix, following their bombshell six-part docuseries in December 2022 and their 'Live to Lead' series, which aired on New Year's Eve in 2022. It will follow the couple's 'return to South Africa', according to the source, following their royal tour which saw them visit the nation in 2019. Hillary Clinton appeared positively charmed by King Felipe this morning as she arrived in Spain. The US politician, 75, has travelled to Europe to participate in the Barcelona Centre for International Affairs think tank on Friday. Ahead of the conference, King Felipe held an audience with Hillary at Zarzuela Palace in Madrid. The former Secretary of State looked effortlessly elegant in a black-and-yellow tweed jacket, which she wore over a pair of slim-leg trousers. The mother-of-one paired her eye-catching coat with a chunky black floral necklace. Hillary Clinton, 75, poses for photos with King Felipe, 55, after arriving in Spain for a conference this Friday She finished off her ensemble with a pair of low black leather heels and chunky gold bracelets. Hillary - who was the first woman to run for President of the United States in 2016 - opted for a nude-toned lipstick and some black eyeliner. Meanwhile, King Felipe, 55, was dapper in a grey suit which he wore with a blue striped shirt. The father-of-two teamed this with a bright blue patterned tie and some patent leather shoes. Before their meeting, the pair happily posed for photos in front of one of the Palace's historic tapestries. As Hillary walked into the hall, Felipe warmly greeted the politician - giving her a peck on each cheek and kissing her hand. Later this afternoon, Felipe is also expected to host an audience with former NASA administrator Bill Nelson. On Friday, Hillary will participate in the panel 'A Life in Global Politics' - which will be fronted by Barcelona Centre for International Affairs' Director Pol Morillas. King Felipe of Spain gave the US politician an especially warm welcome - giving her a pec on both cheeks and kissing her hand Hillary placed a hand on Felipe's shoulder as he leaned in to kiss her on the cheek in the historic hall Father-of-two Felipe teamed this with a bright blue patterned tie and some patent leather shoes. The pair shared a laugh as they posed for photos in front of one of the Palace's tapestries before their meeting This year marks the 50th anniversary of the annual conference in Barcelona - which was first established in 1973 by a group of Spanish citizens who had returned from Chile. A spokesperson for the organisation said: 'In its 50 years of history, CIDOB has witnessed the main events that have shaken Europe and the world, always with the desire to explain global politics and its impact on public and private institutions and on civil society, transcending the classic structures of international relations and making values, analysis, research and dissemination compatible.' 'Pioneer in the study of international relations and in the production of knowledge in this area through its publications, CIDOB is celebrating its 50th anniversary in a world marked by Russian aggression against Ukraine, post-pandemia, the global confrontation between great powers, the retreat of democracies and the climate crisis, among others, vindicating its role as an independent think tank, of prestige and reference in international issues, and with the will to continue explaining and offering plural visions of an international system in transformation.' Britons must be aware of falling into the trap of being overcharged on holiday After tourists complained about being charged extortionate prices for snack while on holiday in Greece, Britons heading away this summer are being warned about another prime location that has hit the headlines for facing a string of complaints about the cost of their meals and drinks. Italys beautiful floating city of Venice, home of St Marks Square, canals, gondola rides and more, is well-known for being pricey but these eye-watering receipts are ridiculous. One Venetian restaurant found itself at the end of a 12,300 fine after it charged four Japanese students 1,100 (970) for four steaks, a plate of fried fish, water and service. The group had eaten at Osteria de Luca restaurant, close to St Marks Square, when they were presented with the astonishing bill. After returning to Bologna, where they were studying Italian Cuisine, they went to local police to report the restaurant. Four Japanese students went to the police when they returned home to Bologna to complain about the cost of their meal Osteria da Luca in Venice (pictured here). It has not been revealed if they received a refund but the restaurant was eventually fined by authorities Following the complaint, it was also revealed that their friends who had chosen a different restaurant to dine in had been charged 350 for three plates of seafood pasta. The restaurant currently has a rating of 1.5 on Tripadvisor, with one recent review stating: 'I went there by random. I didnt check their rating. But I should. Location was good, service was terrible. If I can rate zero I would do it. They dont ask you give you water add on $4, then I ordered fried seafood they said 100g was too small they will give me midsize . I didnt thinking they charge me $50 for fried seafood and $18 dinner set on menu was terrible too. Also add on 15% service charge , I asked the waiter he said that is tax. [sic]' Luigi Brugnaro, the mayor of Venice, promised to look into the matter and authorities eventually slapped Osteria da Luca with fines totalling 12,300, after visits police, health officers, building inspectors, and the national financial crime police. This wasn't an isolated occurrence though. A year before the students' complaint in 2018, a man from Birmingham on holiday with his parents was stunned when they were charged 526 for lunch, which included oysters, chips and grilled vegetables. Luke Tang, a university lecturer, was dining with his 70-year-old parents and was so appalled by the bill he received at the Trattoria Casanova restaurant that he wrote to the mayor to complain. In an interview on Italian television, Mayor Brugnaro said then: 'Theyre cheapskates. Someone eats and drinks in a restaurant, then says they cannot understand the language?' And it seems it is not just lunches and dinners that tourists need to be watchful of after one couple were charged 43 for two coffees and two bottles of water. Juan Carlos Bustamente, 62, from Chile, shared a photo of his receipt from Caffe Lavena on social media. The cafe, located in the expensive area of St Mark's Square, revealed the extra cost was due to a surcharge added for sitting in the square. Luke Tang and his elderly parents dined at Trattoria Casanova (pictured here) in Venice where they ordered a lunch that included oysters, chips and grilled vegetables Luke Tang, a university lecturer from Birmingham, was so appalled by the bill he received at the Trattoria Casanova in Venice he wrote to the mayor to complain Mr Tang and his parents ordered a seafood platter at Trattoria Casanova (pictured here). Restaurants in Italy often charge for meat and seafood by the gram, which is where issues can often arise After Juan Carlos Bustamente's receipt for 43 for two coffees and two waters went viral, many people argued the price was to be expected The post, which went viral, attracted a number of comments from fellow outraged diners but also those who defended the price. One person wrote: 'On Markusplatz, this is a common fare at all cafes, if you want to sit outside. This is how it is..' 'Well, I think you can appreciate, that you pay the main price in these kinds of establishments. Also applies to cafes at Ponte Vecchio or the Eiffel Tower. Better check the map first, before ordering. Take your loss I would say!,' added someone else. While a third follower wrote: 'Its pointless complaining, theres a price list outside the entrance.' She also claimed she was tricked into signing a contract and was forced to film Jill Duggar has revealed how her dad stopped his children from being paid for their participation in the family's lucrative TLC reality show even after they became adults - as her husband, Derick Dillard, recalled how he got anonymous death threats when he demanded they receive money. For nearly 13 years, the intimate details of the Duggar family's lives were video taped and shared to their millions of avid viewers through their various shows. Their abnormally large brood and bizarre lifestyle - the family are members of a Christian group known as the the Institute in Basic Life Principles, which sets a slew of rigorous rules for its members - quickly captured the nation and turned their numerous series into some of the most watched reality shows of all time. It's been reported that the Duggars received $18 million over the course of their 21 seasons on TV, but according to Jill, 32 - the fourth eldest of the Duggars' 19 kids - she and her siblings weren't given a dime of it during their time in the show. Instead, she claimed it all went into her father, Jim Bob Duggar's pocket. Jill Duggar has revealed how her dad stopped his children from being paid for their participation in the family's lucrative TLC reality show even after they became adults It's been reported that the Duggars received $18 million over the course of their 21 seasons on TV But according to Jill, 32, she and her siblings weren't given a dime of it. Instead, she claimed it all went into her father, Jim Bob Duggar's (seen with his wife, Michelle Duggar) pocket She spoke out about her battle to get distributions in the upcoming explosive Amazon Prime docuseries about the family, entitled Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets She spoke out about her battle to get distributions in the upcoming explosive Amazon Prime docuseries about the family, entitled Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets - while claiming that her dad tricked her into signing a contract that forced her to continue filming against her will, and that she was given no choice but to video tape the birth of her son despite her telling the production crew that she wasn't comfortable with it. Jill explained that she was asked to sign a contract on the day before her marriage to Derick, whom she wed in 2014, but said she was never actually shown the full thing, only the 'signature page.' 'It was just at the end of the kitchen table. [My dad was like,] "Hey, I just need you guys to sign these,"' she recalled. 'I didn't know what it was for.' She said she later found out that it was a 'commitment of her life to the show' for the next 'five years.' The reality star explained that any 'business meetings' and 'negotiations' held with TLC did not involve her or her siblings, only her father. 'We were just told when to be there and what was going on and what we needed to do,' Derick, 34, added. Almost everything in their day-to-day lives were documented for the series - including events like their wedding and the births of their kids. Jill and Derick said they felt like they had 'no choice' but to allow millions of people into their home. She claimed her dad tricked her into signing a contract (seen) that forced her to continue filming against her will Jill said she was asked to sign the contract on the day before her marriage to Derick, whom she wed in 2014, but said she was never actually shown the full thing, only the 'signature page' She said she later found out that it was a 'commitment of her life to the show' for the next 'five years.' She is seen with her husband and parents She also said she was given no choice but to video tape the birth of her son despite her telling the production crew that she wasn't comfortable with it. She's seen during the birth When the now 32-year-old became pregnant with their first child, she recalled making it clear that she did not want any camera crew inside the delivery room with her. However, she claimed the production company was not pleased with that request, and ultimately convinced her and Derick to record the birth themselves on a handheld camera. 'A few weeks out from the birth, the production company is like, "Hey so we're thinking about the birth, are you good with us having one person there?" I was like, "Well actually, we don't want you guys there at all,"' she explained. 'They were like, "At all?' They were shocked. I knew for sure nobody was going to be in my delivery room. Nobody. And nobody would be there for the labor. I didn't want any of that.' Derick added: 'We basically lost. They were gonna get what they wanted.' 'They gave us cameras and they were like, "You guys shoot." We did diary cams, we did a lot of work so they got the footage,' Jill interjected. After their son, Israel, was born in 2015, Jill said she asked TLC to pay them for the footage they had provided - but were told that the network had already given money to Jim Bob, now 57, for it. She claimed the production company convinced her and Derick to record the birth themselves on a handheld camera. Derick said: 'We basically lost. They were gonna get what they wanted' After their son, Israel, was born in 2015, Jill said she asked TLC to pay them for the footage they had provided - but were told that the network had already given money to Jim Bob for it When asked if they ever received money for their time in the show, Jill stated: 'No. I never received any payout. For seven-and-a-half years of my adult life, I was never paid' 'They said they paid the family. Paying the family means we don't get anything,' Derick said. 'They said, "We paid your dad so take it up with him."' When asked if they ever received money for their time in the show, Jill stated: 'No. I never received any payout. 'No check, no cash, no nothing. For seven-and-a-half years of my adult life, I was never paid. We were taken advantage of.' Things came to a head when Jill and Derick moved to El Salvador in 2016 for 10 months to do mission work (seen) Things came to a head when Jill and Derick moved to El Salvador in 2016 for 10 months to do mission work. While the camera crews went with them - continuing to film their every move - they recalled facing immense 'pressure' from the network to return back to their home in Arkansas for more 'shoots.' 'It was a matter of principle, like, no, we're gonna stay here,' Jill recalled. 'That was the first time we really put our foot down and said no. 'I've never said no to our family before. I said, "No. We cannot do what you're asking us to do." It was one of those ah-hah moments for us.' But according to the mother-of-three, they didn't have a choice thanks to the contract she had signed on the day before her wedding. 'They were basically like, "You have to." Then my dad sends us the [papers we signed before our wedding] and the obligations section of the contract,' she continued. Jill (seen with Derick in El Salvador) said they were facing immense 'pressure' from the network to return back to their home in Arkansas for more 'shoots' but they didn't want to go 'They were basically like, "You have to." Then my dad sends us the [papers we signed before our wedding] and the obligations section of the contract,' Jill continued After returning to America to do the shoot, Derick said he told Jim Bob that he and Jill had to be compensated for their time 'At first I was like, "Someone forged my signature," but then I look at it and I'm like, "That is my signature." 'That's when we realized what we had signed the day before we got married. That wasn't what I thought I was signing.' After returning to America to do the shoot, Derick said he told Jim Bob that he and Jill had to be compensated for their time. 'If we're giving up something then we should get something in return,' he stated. 'Jim Bob was like, "What do you want? $10 an hour?" And I was like, "I don't know, what's it worth?" 'And he was like, "What's your price?" He was like, "I can pay you $10 an hour." That's when we asked to talk to TLC.' Unfortunately, Jill said their requests to talk to TLC were shut down by their dad's publicist, Chad Gallagher, who claimed they weren't allowed to discuss anything without him. News of a rift building within the family soon trickled into the media, which Jill said resulted in Jim Bob finally offering to pay his adult kids a 'lump sum of money.' However, Jill and Derick explained that they ultimately turned it down because they claimed they would have to sign another contract to get the money. They then parted ways with TLC. 'In order to receive that, you had to sign another deal with my dad and his production company, Mad Family Inc., which would last like forever. We were automatically like, we're done,' Jill explained. Derick said, 'We found out on social media that our relationship, if we ever had a relationship with TLC, came to an end at that time.' Jill and Derick cut ties with TLC in 2017. Following their departure from the show, Derick said he received a series of threatening text messages from an anonymous person (seen above) Following their departure from the show, Derick said he received a series of terrifying text messages from a 'burner phone.' The anonymous person claimed to be a friend of the family's and threatened Derick for 'mistreating' Jim Bob and Michelle and 'returning evil.' 'Jim Bob or Michelle have never done you wrong nor Jill,' read one of the messages. 'You are returning evil for the unbelievable privilege of marrying their most beautiful and intelligent daughter, who is the fruit of their lives. 'You were a trusted man to be given the high privilege of courting and marrying their treasured daughter, godly, well trained, talented, capable. Never was there a girl like Jill.' Another said: 'As a son-in-law, Jill's parents are also yours, and biblically, whatever you do to them is the same as your own parents. 'The mistreatment of parents is forbidden in both the Old and New Testament, with death penalties ascribed to those violations and wrong actions to parents. And the reverse promise, that things will not go well for you.' When asked if he believed Jim Bob had sent him the text message, Derick admitted, 'I don't know, I can't speculate.' More of the family's disturbing secrets are set to be exposed in Amazon Prime's Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets, which will premiere on June 2. Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella of Monaco put on a show for crowds as they stepped out with their parents Princess Charlene and Prince Albert this evening. The eight-year-old royal twins posed for photos with a huge cake in celebration of 100 years since the birth of Rainier III, while their parents looked on adoringly. While Prince Jacques held out his arms to present the cake to crowds, Princess Gabriella, guided by her mother, cut a ceremonial slice. Princess Charlene, 45, also turned heads today as she stepped out for the event and debuted a new brunette hairstyle. The royal wore a simple fawn-coloured blazer with matching trousers and a cream top for the family day out. Wearing her new dark pixie cut smooth and shiny, the mum-of-two accessorised the look with minimal makeup and diamond earrings. Adding a slight edge to her outfit, Charlene finished by adding dark nail polish to her fingernails. Meanwhile, her husband, 65, cut a dapper figure in a smart blue suit as he posed for photos with his wife. Ta-da! Prince Jacques, eight, threw out his hands to the crowd as he presented a cake as part of the 100th anniversary celebrations Guided by her mother, Princess Gabriella held up a knife to cut the cake - under the watchful eye of her father Prince Albert Fireworks explode over Monaco as part of the celebrations to mark the 100th anniversary of the late Rainier III A sweet family portrait: Prince Albert and Princess Charlene posed for a photo with their eight-year-old twins Jacques appeared overwhelmed with the festivities as the royals posed for a sweet family portrait The royals posed for a photo with their wider family including Princess Stephanie of Monaco (to the left of Prince Albert) Princess Charlene of Monaco was joined by her husband Prince Albert and Princess Stephanie for the occasion to celebrate the birth of the late Rainer III Stephanie and Charlene pictured as they arrived for the inauguration of the sculpture walk in Monaco Charlene and Stephanie donned neutral ensembles as they took part in celebrations for the birth of the late Rainer III in Monaco Stephanie greeted a resident during the inauguration of the sculpture walk as part of the celebrations Charlene and Albert were pictured chatting with well-wishers as they took part in the celebrations Charlene, Albert and other members of the royal family paraded in vintage cars as part of the celebrations Albert waved as he enjoyed a stroll in a vintage car for the Monaco celebrations with his wife Charlene The couple's twins waved from the back of the car as the family took a fashionable stroll in the car Albert drove the car as the family joined in the festivities, celebrating the birth of the late Rainer III Charlene and Albert drove out with their children as adoring crowds cheered on from the sidelines Pierre Casiraghi, Beatrice Borromeo and other members of the royal family paraded in vintage cars Princess Caroline of Monaco was also pictured parading in a vintage car as part of the celebrations Prince Albert II of Monaco waved, alongside Princess Caroline of Hanover as they attend celebrations marking the birth of the late Rainer III Prince Albert II of Monaco attended celebrations marking the birth of the late Rainer III in front of the Monaco cathedral Students released doves outside Monaco Cathedral during the commemoration ceremony for the centenary of the birth of Prince Rainier III of Monaco Charlene and Albert wore protective overalls to protect their clothes as they took part in an art workshop creating works in the image of Rainer III Charlene and Albert's son Jacques was also in attendance, enjoying the festivities and getting stuck in with the activities Princess Charlene of Monaco (R) and Prince Albert II of Monaco (2nd R) drove out in a vintage car with their twins in the back as part of the celebrations to mark the birth of the late Rainer III The children of Prince Albert II of Monaco, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella rode in a buggy during celebrations marking the birth of the late Rainer III The Princess, her husband, Albert II, 65, and their twin children Jacques and Gabriella, eight, were out to celebrate the birth of the late Rainier III. The Principality of Monaco is celebrating the centenary of the birth of Rainier III, whose reign was marked by strong urban development. Albert II, the son of iconic American movie star Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III, has been married to Princess Charlene since their wedding in 2011. The couple were also snapped with Princess Stephanie of Monaco, 58, who wore a cool white suit for the occasion. It comes as Charlene recently showed off her new look while stepping out for the Grand Prix alongside other members of the Royal Family. She sported new hair do as she attended the annual motoring event, which is held on the Circuit de Monaco, with Prince Albert. In a bold move away from her trademark platinum crop, Charlene sported rich, shining dark auburn hair, still in her signature elfin short style. The royal, who appeared deep in thought as she was photographed standing next to her husband, paired the dramatic new 'do with a chic maxi dress in a full-length classic shift-style cut, featuring rainbow coloured stripes down the front. Pierre Casiraghi (R) and Beatrice Borromeo (2nd R) and other members of the royal family joined the Prince and Princess to drive along the parade in a vintage car The Princess recently showed off her new hair colour a dark brunette in the same cut as before her trademark pixie style The Royal couple appeared in good sprits as they sprayed paint to create works of art at the event in honour of the late monarch of Monaco Charlene smiles as she shows off her artistic flair while Albert stands next to her, with Stephanie (R) looking on at the scene The couple's other child, Princess Gabriella, also had a go at making art with her mum who was happy to help out Her locks were simply styled into a side parting, to show off her simple diamond studs, and her elegant make-up look comprising a fresh base and light brown smokey eyes. Meanwhile, Prince Albert was also smart, donning slacks with a classic blazer, crisp shirt and tie. Also at the Grand Prix was Grace Kelly's granddaughter Charlotte Casiraghi, 36, accompanied by her husband, Dimitri Rassam, and her son Raphael, eight. Meanwhile, Grace Kelly's grandson, Louis Ducruet, 30, was also in attendance with his wife, Marie Chevallier, also 30. Pierre Casiraghi, 35, and his wife, Beatrice Borromeo, 37, also attended, alongside Andrea Casiraghi, 38, and his Tatiana Santo Domingo, 39. The pair were picture with their son, Maximilian and daughter India. Princess Charlene and Prince Albert's outing followed a public appearance together earlier this month, when they attended a Buckingham Palace reception hosted by King Charles on the eve of his coronation, before attending the Westminster Abbey ceremony itself. Their London appearance followed the couple stepping out in public in April with their children for the first time since the palace was forced to deny rumours the couple's marriage was on the rocks. The family looked picture-perfect as Charlene put her arm around eight-year-old Prince Jacques and placed her other hand on Princess Gabriella's shoulders as they went to a match as part of the Sainte Devote Rugby Tournament. The sweet family appearance came weeks after a French publication reported Princess Charlene and Prince Albert were in the process of a divorce - something the palace has strenuously denied. After ROYAUTE reported their 12-year marriage was coming to an end, a spokesman said the couple 'formally deny the malicious rumours peddled by the magazine'. Tatiana Santo Domingo (front R) and Andrea Casiraghi (2ndR) drove Princess Stephanie along the parade in another vintage car It was very much a family affair with Charlene, Albert, the twins and Stephanie all in attendance for the special occasion Charlene showed off her impeccable style in a chic fawn-coloured blazer and trousers, while Albert donned a smart dark blue suit and crisp white shirt with a cream fedora In recent weeks the couple have put on a united front at events around the principality, including a memorial mass service for Prince Albert's late father, Prince Rainier, earlier this month. However, Princess Charlene fuelled rumours her marriage was on the rocks when she was spotted on a solo trip to Milan last month without wearing her wedding ring. She later returned to Monaco and attended an awards ceremony alongside her husband, and was once again wearing the ring. However, later that day, the couple made a joint appearance at the Monte Carlo Woman of the Year awards, where Charlene appeared to be wearing her wedding ring - pouring cold water on the split rumours. The plot seemed to thicken at the next royal engagement, when Prince Albert attended the Rose Ball in Monaco without his wife present. The Duchess of York has promised that no stone will be left unturned, and no topic will be off limits when she starts her new podcast - due at midnight, tonight. 'Everything will be approached with enthusiasm and humour,' says the Duchess, who will co-host the weekly Tea Talks' with entrepreneur Sarah Thomson. But will that turn out to be true? 'Everything' covers a great deal in the case of Sarah Ferguson, who has led a life packed with incident, and much else besides. While Fergie can be more than frank, and is normally happy to drop a few anecdotal gems to assist profile writers in shaping a positive image, it is far from clear she will allow some of the more rackety episodes of her life to feature in full. It might only add to her current sea of problems if she did. The Duchess of York has promised to be an completely open when she begins a new podcast perhaps this week - with entrepreneur Sarah Thomson The Duchess of York has been open about her financial problems. She discussed them with talk-show host Oprah Winfrey in 2011 But will she talk about the pressure that Prince Andrew faces to leave Royal Lodge? It is not likely that Fergie will go into her friendship - or Andrew's friendship - with late financier and sex abuser Jeffrey Epstein. Here, Epstein and Andrew are pictured with Melania Trump (left) and Gwendolyn Beck at the Mar-a-Lago club, Palm Beach, in 2000 The Duchess has certainly packed a great deal into her 63 years and has many commendable achievements, as a charity founder, Weight Watchers figurehead, prolific children's author and Mills & Boon romantic fiction writer. No doubt these will get a full airing, given the slightest opportunity. The pregnancy of second daughter, Eugenie, should be a safe enough subject. The baby is due any time now and will be a welcome distraction from troubles elsewhere. And it's entirely possible she will re-visit the hell of the fiendish debts she ran up the subject of a high-profile interview with Oprah. But as to some of the finer detail Will she really talk about her friendship with millionaire paedophile, the late Jeffrey Epstein someone who is known to have lent her money. Unlikely, perhaps. Last night, MailOnline revealed that the Duchess had visited Epstein in 2010 while he was still under house arrest for having sex with under-age girls. In a cryptic note on his private calendar, Epstein had told his assistant: 'Duchess anytime'. As Epstein is THE topic that most threatens to keep Prince Andrew, her former husband, in outer-darkness, we can expect a discreet silence about that and about Andrew's notorious entanglement with the disgraced financier. Sources suggest that the Duchess is less impressed by the way that other senior members of the family have responded to Prince Andrew's plight )effectively kicking him out of front-line royal duties) but Fergie is in no position to say so. There might be more chance of her discussing a parallel nightmare King Charles's decision to cut the annual 250,000 grant Andrew had received from his mother. This reduction in funds probably means he will have to leave Royal Lodge, his home for many years, because the maintenance is expensive. As Fergie spends much of her time living at Royal Lodge, this is bad news for her, too. Relations with the King are delicate, however, so don't hold your breath for a free and frank discussion of that. There is no shortage of colourful material from further back in Sarah's past she could include, starting with the events of 1992, when she and her husband Prince Andrew had, after six years' marriage, announced their separation. Pictured together in 1992, Sarah Ferguson conducted a disastrous affair with John Bryan which marked the end of her life as a royal Prince Andrew speaking about his links to Jeffrey Epstein in a catastrophic interview with Newsnight's Emily Maitlis in 2022. It is unlikely that his former wife will repeat the mistake Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein at Ascot with the Earl (far left) and Countess of Derby It was a testing time for Sarah, who had seen her public popularity tumble, from being the royal family's new breath of fresh air, to a much-mocked figure, not least for her fluctuating weight. While her husband's post as a naval sea captain meant that she was left alone to raise the couple's two daughters, it was not long before she found herself in the company of John Bryan, a Texan businessman who was to become her 'financial adviser'. It was the smooth Mr Bryan who escorted Sarah on what was to become an infamous sojourn in the south of France. But their choice of villa was not the wisest, with a low wall making it an easy target. In early August an Italian photographer was rewarded with some of the most scandalous pictures involving a member of the British Royal family. At the side of the villa's pool, the newly-separated Sarah was pictured in a state of romantic reverie, seeming to have her toes sucked by Mr Bryan. (He would later make the pedantic point that he was kissing her feet, not sucking.) In others pictures, Sarah was kissing Bryan, while her daughters Beatrice (then aged four) and Eugenie (two) splashed in the pool, and two Scotland Yard protection officers sunbathed nearby, The pictures caused a sensation when they were published two days later in the Daily Mirror. Its 3.5 million print run had sold out by 9am. When further pictures appeared on Sunday morning, Sarah could not have been in a more unfortunate position. She had been invited by the Queen to Balmoral to, according to reports 'discuss her future'. Until that morning of global public embarrassment, starting at the Balmoral breakfast table with members of the royal family looking aghast as they flipped through the papers, Sarah had counted herself to be in a reasonably civilised position. While she and Andrew had officially separated, relations between the two were certainly cordial. They had been at Royal Ascot and she had made public appearances by Andrew's side. Sarah had arrived at Balmoral expecting civilised discussions about the amount of her divorce settlement and the custody arrangements of her two children. Instead, while Prince Philip and others remained stony-faced around the breakfast table, the Queen, upstairs in her sitting room with a copy of the Sunday Mirror in front of her, summoned Sarah. 'The Queen was furious, absolutely furious. I think partly because she loved Fergie [Sarah] so much,' said Ingrid Seward, editor of Majesty magazine. 'She just couldn't believe Fergie could have been so stupid to allow this to happen. When Fergie backed out of the Presence in a deep curtsy she knew her life as a royal was well and truly over.' While the fallout of those pictures haunted Sarah for years, and led to her being treated as a pariah by several members of the royal family, worse was to come almost 20 years later, when Sarah fell victim to a sting in which she was filmed by a newspaper offering to take cash for access to her ex-husband, who was then the UK's special trade envoy. Facing considerable debts - Sarah has freely confessed to an almost child-like inability to handle her finances - she was shown clapping her hands with delight when an undercover tabloid reporter led her into a room with nearly 30,000 sitting on the table. 'Oh my god, you're a genius,' she told the News of the World's Mahzer Mahmood as she laid eyes on the cash. Unfortunately for Sarah. Mahmood (who would three years later be jailed himself for manipulating evidence in another sting) was taping the whole encounter. The cash on the table was supposedly a down payment of 500,000 which Mahmood, posing as an Indian businessman, was offering to buy access to Prince Andrew. At one point Sarah told the reporter: 'I can open any door you want.' When the footage was published, Sarah's professional life collapsed. She was later to claim that because of the scandal her earnings had dropped from 750,000 to 54,000. She also blamed alcohol for her bad judgment in her Oprah interview, she confessed to drinking heavily, saying she had been 'in the gutter at that moment' when falling for the sting. It would all make for a fascinating discussion. Yet. Today, the royal family's relations with Sarah have thawed; she was invited by the king to spend last Christmas at Sandringham. The podcast, announced in May, has already been delayed, although the reason is unclear. But there is no doubt it is keenly awaited. What, then, given the difficulty of her situation, will she find to discuss about when, as expected, Tea Talks makes its debut at midnight? The podcast has already been delayed, although the reason is unclear Fergie might talk about her pregnant daughter, Princess Eugenie. She is pictured, left, with sister Princess Beatrice attending the Coronation Big Lunch Sarah has a new role as Keeper of the Queen's corgis Muick and Sandy, having been bequeathed the royal pets after the monarch's death last September Prince Andrew greeting Queen Elizabeth's corgis at Windsor Castle during the Committal Service for Queen Elizabeth II held at St George's Chapel in September Animals are a good bet, in particular her new role as Keeper of the Queen's corgis Muick and Sandy, having been bequeathed the royal pets after the monarch's death last September. 'Sometimes I break a little biccie a digestive biscuit in the same way the Queen broke it into little pieces, and give it to them and tell them to remember their boss,' she disclosed in a recent interview. She describes the mishaps she's been linked with over the years as 'enormous learning curves'. She says people 'don't know the real Sarah' but that she is strong and happy in herself. 'I've done the work to get to myself. I've done masses of mental therapy. I probably reached to the wrong places and the wrong people and made mistakes. But I don't call them mistakes. 'I call them enormous learning curves.' We can probably expect some more of that tonight - and in the coming weeks. A woman whose father sexually abused her from the age of two said she was 'disgusted' to hear his sickening defence of his actions in his statement to police, as he tried to blame her for seducing him. Emily Victoria, 31, from Dorset, visits the officers who investigated her father's abuse of her in a scene in her documentary, A Paedophile In My Family: Surviving Dad, which aired on Channel 4 at 9pm. The businesswoman and mother-of-one sits down with Tony O'Connell and Helen Deakin as Tony reads out a transcript of her father's explanation during his police interview in 2009, after Emily reported him to the police. As the statement labels Emily a 'sexual kid' and shirks all blame, the 31-year-old speaks of seeing her father, who has been released from jail after serving 14 years, in a different light. Meanwhile Tony explains Emily's father, who had quit his job to become a foster carer when his daughter was eight, had been 'trying to groom police' and 'convince them of his own warped world view.' Emily Victoria, 31, from Dorset, appears in A Paedophile In My Family: Surviving Dad, which aired tonight on Channel 4, where she discusses the abuse she suffered at the hands of her father In the documentary, Emily explains how her father's abuse began when she was just a toddler, but was invisible to everyone around her - including her mother. She explains how, on the outside, she, her two brothers, her father and mother, looked like a normal family, with her dad being 'popular' with others. However she says: 'What people didn't see, not even my family, was that I was being sexually abused by my dad for the first 18 years of my life.' As Tony reads out Emily's father's statement, he says: '"[I was] happily married at the start, never watched kiddie porn, don't know why it happened. '"Emily was a very sexual kid, some kids are. Don't know if that's what switched me on. Can't remember exactly how it started. "Emily would do stuff to herself, I caught her one day."' He paused, interjecting: 'So that's the start of his narrative, he's not a sex offender or into kiddie porn, it's about you and what you did to him.' In shocking scenes in the documentary, the officers who first interviewed Emily and her father about the abuse went through the initial reports and her father's sickening defence of his behaviour Emily (pictured with her father on Christmas Day when she was a child) bravely recounts her story in the documentary The abuse began when Emily was just two-years-old and continued until she was a teenager (pictured) Emily said: 'It's so interesting because the earliest memories I have, as a toddler, of him like poking me and everything, why did he think a child behaves a certain way? 'It's because you're teaching them.' Tony continued reading through the notes, explaining how Emily's father had recalled the abuse: '"[She was] sat on bed, straddled me, started moving on me. '"Didn't stop her immediately. Could feel she was quite turned on I guess."' Tony explained Emily's father had been 'trying to groom police' and 'convince them of his own warped world view.' The notes continued: '"[I] felt guilty, usual stuff. Feelings came up again, sexually aroused, guilty. It just progressed. 'He said, "[We had a] brilliant father daughter relationship and [that I] didn't do anything she didn't want."' '"[It was a] very gentle, wrong but a very loving relationship. [I] didn't have to force her or tell her not to tell."' A clearly stunned Emily asked the officers if they felt her father 'felt bad' for what he had done, with Tony responding: 'There was no part of him that felt bad over what had happened.' Emily explained: 'I just feel a bit sick. His narrative that he put there was what he was trying to put on me the whole time. Everything was my fault, even outside of that nonsense. 'He would say, "No one likes you at school and these are the reasons why." He was always trying to shift the blame onto me. 'I'm not shocked that he has done that...it brings up all those feelings when I was a child and blame myself for everything, which I don't do anymore. 'I'm trying to make sure that that doesn't make me go backwards. I'm having an inner battle with myself.' Tony assured her that they 'never believed' what her father told them, saying: 'When you were talking, it was like, I want to cry and can't believe this has happened to you. 'When he's sitting there talking, it's...outwardly, "Thank you for talking to us". But inwardly, you're going...you cowardly f*****, how could you do this?' Emily said hearing the notes from the police interview gave her a new perspective on the abuse, adding: 'I feel sick to my stomach in a way I haven't felt before. 'I look at him in a different way, like he's something disgusting. 'I always felt like he pled guilty not just because of the evidence but because he felt bad for what he had done. 'But my dad's words made it very clear that he didn't care about me at all. I actually want to know and look him in the eye to see if he has changed at all.' He was sentenced to 14 years in prison but was recently released. During the programme Emily spoke with a restorative justice specialist, and attempted to meet with her father. During the film, Emily also grappled with the challenges of her relationship with her mother (pictured) When Emily was eight, her father quit his job as an estate agent to become a foster parent, while her mother worked long hours - and the abuse remained a secret At the time, he was a unemployed and living in council accommodation. However, he turned down her offer to meet and discuss what had happened, leaving Emily devastated. As she recalls the abuse she suffered, Emily notes how it impacted her life, particularly as she approached adolescence. Emily told how she felt like 'a zombie' at school and recalled how her father would keep her at home in order to abuse her. Looking through a report from Year 7, she said: 'This is the year when I felt like I died.' While he would initially use condoms, Emily was placed on the pill when she was 15-years-old. She said the abuse continued throughout her teenage years, saying: 'It was prominent, and I had to replace my thoughts with his thoughts as a way to survive. 'I had to be happy and smiley to him in those horrible moments to make him OK. 'That happiness, smiliness was always on my face, everywhere I went, completely masking it. 'The only thing I could do with myself was excel at school and with swimming. I was always the best and I was always winning everything.' As the abuse continued into Emily's teenage years, she said her father began to control more and more of her life During the film, Emily hears from police reports about how her father said the abuse began when she was a child She explained that the masking and smiling was what she needed to survive the abuse, but it was also the element that prevented other people from seeing the truth. A she grew older, her father began to take control over more and more areas of her life, and she wasn't allowed to see her friends or spend time with children her age. He would make her feel guilty for leaving him, and she said she would only see her schoolfriends when he was also busy. She also began to fear her father was abusing other children. Emily said: 'I didn't consider telling anyone anything until I was about 17. I started to suspect he was hurting other children.' She explained: 'I saw one of the foster children comforting him in the way that I felt I had to. 'And in that moment I was like, "Oh my god I think he's abusing her." Because that's how I feel I have to behave. Something snapped in me and changed.' She explained: '[I thought] "Why the hell have I been doing this? I've been trying to protect everyone else and putting myself in the line of fire". Then it was a few weeks later I spoke out.' Elsewhere in the documentary, Emily confronts her complicated relationship with her mother, who had no idea about the abuse, and tackles feelings of guilt she felt while it was going on. She says: 'Imagine if your dad wanted to be with you instead of your mum. Can you imagine what that feels like? And then how horrible it makes you feel? 'And I just felt sorry for her all the time. I might have resented her as well, so thought, like, "Why weren't you able to see or whatever?"' She explained: 'I have an inner battle, and I'm having to have an inner battle to be strong. 'Part of me wants to give into the anger and the darkness. Part of me wants to be like, "F*** everyone, screw my mother and father. I don't care."' Emily said hearing the notes from the police interview gave her a new perspective on the abuse (pictured, one of the officers) Emily and her mother sat down to discuss the abuse during the documentary, and how he had been able to hide it from everyone Meanwhile her mother said it had been 'really difficult', explaining: 'The conversations we have, we probably both manage them a little bit. 'And because there is so much emotion on both sides, heartbreak screaming emotion, sometimes it's hard to vocalise or know how to or when to talk through things.' Meanwhile Emily told the camera: 'There's so many layers to my relationship with my mum and it really, really hurts in some ways. 'I don't know, I think I feel really guilty as well. It makes me emotional. Because I know that I couldn't have done anything to stop it - but there's an element where I feel like I ruined her life.' She said the abuse continues to have an impact on her life, explaining: 'Most of the time I still feel anger towards him, but of course there is some level of him that loved me and cared for me. 'It's confusing, because he was still my dad 50 per cent of the time. Then 50 per cent of the time, he was a monster.' Emily's mother said: 'There were points where I felt like I had lost her. It's a constant fear. 'I've said to myself, "If she never wanted to see me again ever then I would honour that because I just want her to be happy and to thrive".' They recalled how her father's manipulation had tried to 'sever' the connection between Emily and her mother. Emily said: 'I wanted to involve my mother in the documentary but it was a lot more difficult than that. 'I was scared if I looked at my feelings properly, I might have had to walk away from her. 'But I don't want to waste another second carrying guilt or shame or blame. I've avoided having this conversation with my mum for my whole life because it's so painful. The hardest part is just knowing how to start.' Despite the challenges, the two women sat down to discuss the abuse on camera, with Emily saying: 'Think back, did you see any changes in him those first few years?' Emily's mother explained her father was a 'dichotomy', and had 'two sides' which were 'tricky to navigate.' She said she was often upset throughout Emily's childhood, because she 'didn't have any money to feed' the family. She explained: 'I could remember having to put my hands down the back of the sofa to find money, then he stopped working and stayed at home. 'I used to have quite a lot of arguments about money. I was still going out working, so that created a gap between you and me. I suddenly felt like I was a little bit of a spare part.' Emily told her she felt 'distant' from her, and that there were 'walls' which 'isolated them from each other.' Kathy explained: 'I didn't ever think that it was anything more than a really strong bond [between you and your father]. I just felt a little bit more and more pushed out. 'I tried really hard to have a relationship with you.' By the end of the documentary, Emily said she felt 'reborn', adding: 'It's released me from any shame I've had with it. 'I always knew my worth but I feel I've stepped into my power and I feel I'm never going to take any shit off anyone again. 'I really hope if anyone can take anything from my experience, they can have the confidence to have these conversations.' She was recently seen clutching onto a lit cigarette after graduating from USC Sasha Obama has gained a diploma - and apparently lost her desire to wear shoes, at least if her latest public outing in Los Angeles is anything to go by. The former first daughter, who recently celebrated her graduation from USC alongside her parents Barack and Michelle, was seen taking a barefoot stroll through LA yesterday, while clutching onto a chunky pair of sandals. Sasha graduated earlier this month from the University of Southern California, having transferred to the school from the University of Michigan, following her older sister Malia to the West Coast, where the pair have been living together in an apartment. The 21-year-old, who majored in sociology, has clearly been enjoying post-collegiate life, having been seen just a few days ago driving around with a lit cigarette in her hand - and now out for an ultra-casual walk back to her car following an outing with some friends. Sasha Obama has stepped out for a stroll around the streets of Los Angeles barefoot The former First Daughter, 21, donned a casual grey T-shirt and dark wash jeans when hitting the town on Tuesday Sasha graduated earlier this month from the University of Southern California, and her parents, 44th president Barack and Michelle, were there to cheer her on The new graduate went for a very casual look, sporting a simple grey T-shirt and a pair of dark-wash jeans, which she paired with a tan purse that was slung over her shoulder. Rather than wearing her shoes on her feet however, Sasha chose to carry them in her arms, along with a sweater and the keys to her car which she was seen climbing into after strolling across the street. Sasha wore her long black hair down as she strutted across the street. The 21-year-old was then seen getting into her car. Sasha recently completed her studies at USC - with her parents traveling to California to watch their daughter graduate from the prestigious school, where she studied sociology. The former first couple was joined by their daughter Malia and their Secret Service agents as as they cheered on their youngest child from their seats. And in the short while since she completed her college education, Sasha has been making the most of her free time. Just last week, she was pictured holding a lit cigarette while donning baggy denim overalls as she made a Starbucks run. And instead of wearing her shoes on her feet, the former First Daughter opted to hold them instead Sasha recently completed her studies at USC - with her parents traveling to California to watch their daughter graduate from the prestigious school - where she studied sociology Just last week, Sasha was pictured holding a lit cigarette while donning baggy denim overalls as she made a Starbucks run Sasha, 21, graduated from the University of Southern California earlier this month Her father, Barack, has previously spoken out about his own smoking habit and his struggle to quit. In his 2020 memoir, A Promised Land, he admitted he would sometimes smoke eight, nine, or 10 cigarettes a day, and look for a 'discreet location to grab an evening smoke.' He credited his eldest daughter, Malia, with getting him to quit, writing she 'frowned' at him after 'smelling a cigarette on my breath.' He said he 'ceaselessly' chewed nicotine gum to stop. Barack began smoking as a teen and promised his wife, Michelle, he would quit before he campaigned for president. 'As a former smoker I constantly struggle with it,' the then-president admitted during a press conference in 2009. 'Have I fallen off the wagon sometimes? Yes. Am I daily smoker, a constant smoker? No. I don't do it in front of my kids. I don't do it in front of my family. And, you know, I would say that I am 95 per cent cured, but there are times where there are times where I mess up.' In 2011, Michelle said during a White House interview that her husband had quit smoking, adding that she was very proud. At that point, he had stopped the habit for almost a year. Sasha's older sister Malia, 24, has also been seen puffing a cigarette in the past. Back in April 2022, she was pictured smoking with Sasha's 26-year-old boyfriend Clifton Powell Jr., son of Ray actor Clifton Powell. The burger was last available in June 2021 McDonald's is bringing back the McFeast in Australia for a short time Customers have been begging McDonald's to bring back a popular menu item - and now the fast food giant has listened. On May 31 McDonald's Australia confirmed the McFeast will make a return nationwide at participating restaurants for a limited time only. The delicious burger itself is made from 100 per cent Aussie beef patty, tomato, lettuce, cheese, onions and pickles, topped with three delicious sauces - mustard, ketchup and the signature McChicken sauce - served on a sesame seed bun. The McFeast was last offered in June 2021 and at the time fans were raging on social media. 'It's the only burger I really like from McDonald's,' one wrote at the time, while another said: 'McFeast - best Macca's burger, still super upset they took it off the menu.' On May 31 McDonald's Australia confirmed the McFeast will make a return nationwide at participating restaurants for a limited time only. To celebrate the return of the burger, McDonald's is offering customers more value with the introduction of the McFeast Lunch Deal (pictured) The McFeast was last offered in June 2021 and at the time fans were raging on social media To celebrate the return of the burger, McDonald's is offering customers more value with the introduction of the McFeast Lunch Deal - consisting of the McFeast, small fries and small drink for just $5.95. The meal deal will be available daily between 11:30am and 2:30pm via the MyMacca's app, making it the perfect lunchtime treat. Tobi Fukushima, National Marketing Manager for McDonald's Australia said: 'You asked a lot - and so we've listened. The McFeast is back!' 'Combining high-quality ingredients with iconic flavour combinations, the McFeast is one of our tastiest burgers of all time. 'It's not here for long, so head to your local Macca's or the MyMacca's app to avoid missing out.' A Bluey fan is making waves after pointing out a certain health issue that potentially plagues the Heelers. Michael, an avid watcher, recently pointed out that several episodes and plot lines point toward Bluey's little sister Bingo having a severe autoimmune disease. The theory has been circling fan circuits since the show's first season when Bingo was mysteriously admitted to the hospital in 'Bumpy and the Wise Old Wolfhound' without an explanation. Many believe the reason behind the little pup's hospital visit is Bingo suffering from Celiac disease or a strong gluten intolerance. There are also other instances and references to gluten-free foods peppered throughout the show. Popular Australian children's show Bluey is beloved among adults and kids alike - but a fan is making waves after pointing out a certain health issue that potentially plagues the Heelers For example, in Daddy Dropoff (Season 2, Episode 8), father Bandit is seen preparing Bluey and Bingo's lunchboxes while sorting food into 'gluten-free' and 'gluten-not-free' sections. Poll Do you think Bingo has celiac disease? Yes - all signs point to it No - it's probably a classmate Do you think Bingo has celiac disease? Yes - all signs point to it 26 votes No - it's probably a classmate 20 votes Now share your opinion In Episode 27 of the same season, it is revealed that Bingo's lunchbox is green - the same container that was filled with gluten-free foods. Another scene shows Bandit and Bingo buying groceries and specifically picking out several gluten-free options like almond flour. But Michael also pointed out several inconsistencies with the health subplot. 'If you have Celiac, you really need a clean surface to prepare food so that there's no cross contamination,' he said in the video, pointing out that Bandit's preparation of the food definitely wasn't completely safe. 'The show is inconsistent about it,' he added, and drew attention to Season 1, Episode 20, where Bingo is seen eating a hot dog with a bun. 'I don't think she has celiac but she might have a gluten intolerance,' the Bluey super fan finally concluded. In Daddy Dropoff (Season 2, Episode 8), father Bandit is seen preparing Bluey and Bingo's lunchboxes while sorting food into 'gluten-free' and 'gluten-not-free' sections Several others shared Bluey theories of their own. 'I think it's possible that the school is gluten-free due to some children having allergies,' a man wrote on Reddit. 'A lot of schools are now nut-free as well.' A second pointed out: 'Bandit went out of his way to mention it as a reminder to himself - surely he'd know if one of his kids would get sick. It's probably a school-issued ban.' 'Kids love to share food,' a woman wrote. 'My class was banned from bringing dairy to school because one kid was allergic - and children can't always tell what has gluten in it.' 'I always thought Bingo had celiac disease because of the hospital,' another shared. 'I have a cousin who has celiac disease, and she was in and out of the hospital a lot when she was little while they were trying to figure out what the issue was.' Keen travellers are sharing the countries, towns and cities they have visited that they will never go back to again. From Switzerland to China and even Thailand, women are warning people against travelling to destinations where they wished they could leave as soon as they arrived. One woman said LA was 'dirty and hot and smelly and horrible' while another reported being 'extremely bored' in Malta and a third said she 'cried the whole time' she was in Amsterdam. 'Have you ever visited a country and just hated it and within the first few days all you can think about is leaving for another destination?' one traveller asked in a post to a Facebook group. The question sparked a flurry of responses with hundreds sharing where they had their worst travel experiences. From Switzerland to China and even Thailand, women are warning people against travelling to their least-favourite destinations where they wished they could leave as soon as they arrived One adventurer said she would never go back to London because: 'there are so many pickpockets. I got my purse opened and wallet stolen, all happened in 10 seconds.' Another said she 'felt unsafe' in Berlin as a solo female traveller and was 'scared the whole time'. 'Mine was Ireland, I really wanted to love it but it just wasn't for me,' another added. Someone said while it was an 'unpopular opinion' she found many locals in Phuket in Thailand 'rude' and said it was 'very westernised'. 'We could either ride it out or lose $2,000 by getting an earlier flight back homewe opted for losing $2,000 because we hated it so much,' she said. Someone said while it was an 'unpopular opinion' she found many locals in Phuket in Thailand 'rude' and said it was 'very westernised' Sydney wasn't a popular destination for a Perth traveller thanks to 'the constant rain, not hot summers, expensive parking, hard to get anywhere as it's so big takes so long'. 'Bars and clubs close so early, the nightlife wasn't good at all,' she added. One woman said she 'cried the whole time' she was in Amsterdam claiming it was very expensive and everyone was 'so rude' to her and made comments about her plus-sized body. 'People came up to me and said things to me about my size,' she said. Another rude city according to group members was the Greek capital of Athens. 'Everyone was extremely aggressive and rude for no reason. Trying to upscale prices,' someone said and another agreed: 'Same! when I was in Athens at 21 with a friend we were constantly cat called by men and stared at!'. Sydney wasn't a popular destination for a Perth traveller thanks to: 'the constant rain, not hot summers, expensive parking, hard to get anywhere as it's so big takes so long' 'For me it was Malta, it's a small island and we were quite bored and Mexico as I didn't feel safe at all,' one woman wrote. 'From the moment I stepped in Switzerland I think I just had bad luck and everything was going wrong for me. The country is beautiful but very expensive and I didn't really feel the connection with the culture or the places I visited,' a second chimed in. 'China, specifically Beijing. I visited with my family when I was about 14/15 and I was veryyy uncomfortable the whole time, people were taking pictures of me,' a third added. Singapore was another no-go travel spot for one woman who said she found there wasn't much to do and it was very pricey. One woman said she 'cried the whole time' she was in Amsterdam claiming it was very expensive and everyone was 'so rude' to her and made comments about her plus-sized body More places travellers said they would never go back to Malaysia - 'It was a huge culture shock for me and normally I don't get culture shock so I think that's what tipped the scale for me.' San Jose, Costa Rica - 'I've never been car called and stared at more in my life.' Spain - 'It was a logistical nightmare' Paris, France - 'Over priced. Pick pockets. Once you've seen it then that's it. I've been a few times and every time got worse.' Vietnam - 'I was so unhappy there. Loved the people and the scenery but hated the food and I was so stressed I couldn't sleep the entire time I was there.' Italy - 'We were yelled at, treated badly at the train station, shooed away, ignored. It was awful.' Turkey - 'Never felt so unsafe being a women in my life!' Venice, Italy - 'To me it just felt so empty and flat, and like it was a shell of what it used to be. Legitimately felt like it's only purpose was as a tourist attraction.' Bali, Indonesia - 'You literally cannot go there and not get sick.' Budapest, Hungary - 'Very humid, crowded, had a real hard time finding anyone who speaks any other languages but Hungarian (or wants to speak it)and being friendly is even more scarce.' Stockholm, Sweden - 'There were no redeeming features'. Delhi, India - 'Never felt so anxious and overwhelmed before. Cried so much the whole time and counted down the days to leave.' Advertisement 'I had four days and was bored on the second, searching like crazy for things to do. If you're into museums they have those though but they aren't free or cheap,' she said. 'I didn't love the feel either, definitely not like the rest of South-East Asia. It's fancy and tiny. It is pretty though!' Another said she didn't feel safe in Barcelona after witnessing people getting pick-pocketed within minutes of arriving. 'Literally within 10 mins of being there I watched a man run off with a lady's purse. Then a student group of like 30 ALL had their passports stolen,' she said. 'I think that set the tone for me. Otherwise, I wasn't impressed with the architecture or any of the activities planned for us.' Lockdowns during the pandemic may have had a similar impact on peoples memories to serving jail time, a study suggests. The study, involving 227 people in the UK, asked them to name the year in which important news events happened. The volunteers remembered events from 2021 about as poorly as those from four years earlier. This is similar to what happens to people in prison, who lose the ability to track the passing of time, according to the researchers. Professor Arash Sahraie, senior author of the study from the University of Aberdeen, said: In prison, research shows that people report days dragging and years flying by, with inmates losing track of time. A study suggests the Covid lockdown may have a similar impact on people's ability to remember events as those who go to prison (stock image) This is similar to what we saw in people asked to recall events during lockdowns, probably because, like prisoners, they had no life events like birthday parties and holidays to use as reference points to track how time was passing. The study, published in the journal PLOS One, gave people four events for each of five years, between 2017 and 2021. These included Meghan Markle joining the Royal Family, Brexit being finalised, the Covid vaccination programme beginning, and Donald Trump being banned from Facebook. For each event, the volunteers had to choose the year they thought it happened, from between 2016 and 2022. The more recent the news story, the better they should have remembered it - so the volunteers, surveyed last May, should have done best for 2021, which was only the previous year. But they were out by more than a year - 1.15 years on average - in their guesses on the dates of 2021 events like the first tourist flight to space and the Evergreen container ship becoming stuck in the Suez Canal. The poor accuracy for 2021 was similar to the problems people had remembering events which happened much longer ago, in 2017 and 2018, for which their answers were wrong by 1.21 and 1.13 years respectively. Peoples memories were not as bad for 2020, which researchers believe is because the pandemic lockdowns only started at the end of March, and because the shock of the situation gave people time landmarks to track how the months were passing. The study states: Although drawing a comparison between the prison environment and pandemic-related restriction might be seen as an extreme case, we argue that there are similarities in the extent of social isolation in both situations. People had worse memories if they struggled with more anxiety and depression during the lockdowns, agreeing with statements in a questionnaire such as during the pandemic I had nothing to look forward to. Professor Sahraie said: People remember that events happened during the pandemic - they just dont remember when. The hard sell of green heating solutions could disadvantage consumers, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is expected to warn in a report being published today. The regulator whose role is to stamp out anti-consumer practices, is concerned that a Government goal for the country to hit 'net zero' by 2050 is being exploited by some unscrupulous businesses, leading to consumer harm. The report looks at all the main prongs of the Government's plan to turn our homes green from encouraging home insulation installation to greater take-up of solar panels, heat pumps, biomass boilers and hydrogen-ready boilers. The CMA is concerned that some firms pump suppliers and installers are exaggerating the benefits of these eco-friendly heating systems to homeowners It will highlight the lack of trustworthy advice available to consumers and embrace the selling of electric air and ground source heat pumps which, respectively, draw natural heat from outside and underground to provide heating and hot water. The CMA is concerned that some firms pump suppliers and installers are exaggerating the benefits of these eco-friendly heating systems to homeowners. Money Mail warned of this looming crisis three months ago, after seeking evidence from readers who had already replaced their gas boiler with an electric heat pump or moved into a property with a pump already in situ. Hundreds contacted us, confirming widespread problems with the new technology. Some, infuriated by the failure of the pumps to heat their homes adequately, have now ripped them out or installed additional heating systems to kick in when the pumps don't generate sufficient warmth. Since September, the CMA has been seeking evidence from both consumers and businesses on the way green heating solutions have been bought and sold. When it launched its call for action, chief executive Sarah Cardell said it was imperative that businesses 'understand and follow their legal obligations when selling and installing [green heating]'. Consumers, she added, should be 'confident they are being treated fairly' and that any problems should be rooted out 'early on'. The report's emphasis on the potential misselling of heat pumps is, in large part, a result of the Government's backing of these heating systems. It says the sale of traditional gas boilers will be banned from 2035, meaning that when these boilers come to the end of their life, they will have to be replaced with an alternative. More immediately, from 2025, no new home will be allowed to be built with a gas boiler. When a Government pushes a technology so hard with generous subsidies available, it is no surprise that the cowboys move in and take advantage of people Mike Foster, chief executive of Energy and Utilities Alliance To push homeowners towards heat pumps, the Government launched a 450million Boiler Upgrade Scheme just over a year ago. It provides respective grants of 6,000 and 5,000 if homeowners rip out their gas boilers and install a ground or air source pump. Before the grant is applied, the price of installing an air source pump can be anything between 7,000 and 13,000, while ground source pumps can cost up to 30,000 (hence the more generous grant). But lower-cost versions are being introduced by the likes of British Gas and Octopus Energy. Although take-up of the grants has been painfully slow, the scheme has attracted some unwelcome companies looking to take advantage of consumers. Mike Foster is chief executive of Energy and Utilities Alliance, an energy trade association with members drawn from the heating and hot water industry. He believes that heat pumps, fitted in the right property by highly professional installers, can be a great way of heating a home. Research published this week shows that 80 per cent of households that have replaced their gas boiler with an electric heat pump are satisfied with their new heating system. Yet, Mr Foster warns: 'When a Government pushes a technology so hard with generous subsidies available, it is no surprise that the cowboys move in and take advantage of people. We have to nip this problem in the bud right now. 'The reality is that a heat pump will reduce your carbon footprint, but it will probably cost you a five-figure sum to install and add to your energy bill, not reduce it. Any advert or sales patter that suggests otherwise should be treated with extreme caution. 'Let's hope the CMA sends out a tough message to firms along the lines of: 'Do not mislead consumers; and if you do, prepare for the consequences.' ' The Government provides respective grants of 6,000 and 5,000 if homeowners rip out their gas boilers and install a ground or air source pump Adverts seen by Money Mail back what Mr Foster says. For example, one ludicrously claims that a heat pump 'uses free energy from the air or ground', while another one for air source pumps makes the false statement that they will help a homeowner 'avoid rising energy costs'. These adverts have been passed on to CMA officials. Andrew Kerr is founder of Boxt, which installs boilers as well as solar panels and radiators. He says: 'Given all the hype around heat pumps, it is vital that governing bodies crack down on those who are simply out to make a 'quick buck' without taking into account whether a heat pump is actually the right choice.' Peter Thom, managing director of energy savings company Green Heat, agrees. He says: 'There are too many rogue installers and too many training courses designed for rogues. This problem needs to be resolved.' On heat pumps, he adds: 'The elephant in the room is the high cost of installation. This is prohibitive to most and you have to question the morals of providing grants to the able-to-pay market while millions of households are in fuel poverty.' Bill Griffiths bought a new-build four-bedroom home four years ago, in a village close to Alfreton, Derbyshire. It came fitted with an air source heat pump. Like many such pumps, it is a noisy beast, especially when working hard to suck in air to heat. Despite this mild irritation and the cost of maintenance, Bill, a former chemist at nearby engineering giant Rolls-Royce, says he is generally happy with the two-fan heat pump behind his garage. It, in turn, heats a 400-litre water tank. But he says it's a lie for any supplier or installer to suggest a heat pump will save homeowners money on their energy bills. Bill says that the current price differential between electricity (which heat pumps are dependent upon) and gas works against heat pumps. He says: The price of gas per kilowatt hour (kWh) is much cheaper than electricity. That means a heat pump must run super-efficiently for it to reap any financial benefit.' Energy regulator Ofgem says that from July this year, the respective price cap for gas and electricity will be 8p and 30p per kWh. Over the past year, Bill has painstakingly compared the cost of electricity used to provide heating and hot water for his home against what it would have cost if he had a gas boiler. In general terms, he says that when the outside temperature is below 8c, the cost of electricity used by the heat pump to deliver the hot water and heating he requires makes it a far more expensive option than gas. Perversely, the heat air pump is most effective when the outside temperature is higher and least needed. In homes that are not as well insulated as new-builds are, or do not have big enough radiators to give off sufficient heat, the financial case for heat pumps is even weaker. Bill adds: 'If the Government is serious about heat pumps, it needs to address the discrepancy between gas and electricity prices.' Barbara Moore, a retired personal assistant in her 60s who lives in Berkshire, believes heat pumps remain an 'experimental and unproven form of heating, only available to the wealthy'. She also claims they are unsuitable for many houses, especially terraced homes and flats. But her biggest beef, which she hopes the CMA will address, is ensuring they are installed properly. Her neighbour had an air source pump put in 18 months ago and on occasion it has made her life hell. She says: 'When the hot water cycle comes on, it emits a dreadful buzzing, droning sound which gives me a terrible headache. Recently, they have timed the heat pump to work during the night when it can use cheaper electricity. As a result, I haven't slept properly for weeks.' Barbara says it is bizarre that the rules governing installation vary according to where someone lives. For example, in England and Scotland, an air source pump must be positioned at least one metre away from the property's boundary. But in Wales, it is at least three metres. Barbara has contemplated complaining to the council, but she knows that if she does so, she will have to disclose it if she were to sell her home in the future. 'The industry needs greater regulation,' she says. The Microgeneration Certification Scheme is trying to raise the standards of those companies involved in the introduction of green heating. Its latest data indicates that nearly 8,800 heat pumps were installed in the first three months of this year. Yet this is no more than a scratch on the surface compared to the Government's target of 600,000 heat pumps to be installed per year by 2028. 'For the vast majority of British homes, heat pumps are not the right solution,' says Mr Foster. 'It will be fascinating to see if the CMA admits as much when its report is published.' For the record, the CMA refused to give any specific details to Money Mail about its report. Citizens Advice also declined to comment. However, in September it stood behind the CMA in saying homeowners need to feel confident about installing green heating technology such as solar panels and heat pumps. Scotland's first Low Emission Zone (LEZ) is now live and being enforced - and it will see drivers of older vehicles entering it hit with huge fines that increase for each subsequent breach. The scheme is far stricter than London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Birmingham's Clean Air Zone (CAZ), both of which have daily charges for drivers who enter in non-compliant vehicles. Instead, the first Scottish LEZ introduced in Glasgow on Thursday 1 June is a blanket ban on older cars that's operational 24 hours a day, 365 days a year - and with harsh punishments for those who fail to adhere to the restrictions. A driver entering the LEZ in a non-compliant older car will be hit with a 60 penalty charge notice - and if they break the rules again within a 90-day window, the PCN amount doubles each time. Scotland's first vehicle emission charging zone is live: Enforcement of Glasgow's LEZ started on Thursday 1 June. Penalties for breaching the rules are huge - and will escalate with each rule break This map shows the size of the Glasgow LEZ, which cover the city centre from the M8 motorway to the north and west and River Clyde to the south Glasgow is the first of Scotland's four biggest cities to enforce the LEZ scheme. While signage and automatic numberplate recognition (ANPR) cameras have also been installed in preparation for similar zones in Aberdeen, Dundee and Edinburgh since last May, Glasgow City Council is the first to set them live from 1 June 2023. Dundee's won't be enforced for another year from 30 May 2024, and in Aberdeen and Edinburgh from 1 June 2024. The extended delay between installation and enforcement of the zones is intended to give drivers and businesses time to prepare and replace their older - non-compliant - motors. However, time has officially ran out for those living and commuting into Glasgow. What is the Glasgow LEZ and where is it? The Glasgow LEZ covers an area of the city centre bounded by the M8 motorway to the north and west, the River Clyde to the south, and Saltmarket/High Street to the east. Which vehicles are allowed into Glasgow city centre from 1 June 2023? As a general rule, diesel cars registered before September 2015 and petrol vehicles registered before 2006 are not allowed in the LEZ. Only vehicles that meet the following Euro emission standards are compliant to enter the zone: Euro 4 and later petrol cars Euro 6 diesel cars Euro IV and later petrol buses, coaches and HGVs Euro VI buses, coaches and HGVs All motorcycles and mopeds In total, 299 of Glasgow's streets will be within the zone perimeter, it has been reported. ANPR cameras installed around the boundary are policing the zone to identify vehicles entering. These are linked to a national vehicle licencing database will be used to enforce the scheme. Any car that fails to meet the minimum required emission standards - Euro 6 for diesel cars (generally those registered after September 2015) and Euro 4 for petrols (typically those registered from 2006 onwards) - is banned from entering this boundary. The restriction also impacts older diesel-powered HGVs and buses that fail to meet Euro VI standards, though mopeds and motorcycles are exempt. Motorists are advised to use the official LEZ vehicle checker to understand if their motor is complaint or not. Escalating penalties for drivers of non-compliant cars means its stricter than London's ULEZ Instead of being able to pay a non-compliance charge like London's 12.50-a-day ULEZ and 8 for Birmingham's CAZ, the Glasgow LEZ will see owners of ineligible motors issued with a Penalty Charge Notice each time they enter. The initial PCN for non-compliant vehicles is 60, which will be halved if paid within a fortnight. Only one PCN will be issued per day, no matter how many times the vehicle enters or leaves the zone. However, a stepped surcharge system means the penalty will double with each subsequent breaking of the rules thereafter within a 90-day window. This is only the case when a motorist in a non-compliant vehicle enters the same LEZ. That means a recurring day entering the Glasgow LEZ in an older car will result in a second PCN of 120, and a third day will see it increase to 240. The penalties escalate regardless of whether the first fine is paid, though the maximum penalty charge is capped at 480 for cars and vans. For buses and HGVs, the maximum penalty amount is 960. After 90 days of a driver last breaching the rules, the surcharge rate is reset to 60. The initial PCN for non-compliant vehicles is 60, reduced to 30 if it is paid within a fortnight. However, the penalty amount will be DOUBLED with each subsequent breach of the rules detected thereafter. Penalty charges are capped at 480 It means a driver in a non-compliant vehicle who drives into the zone every day would - in theory - incur annual PCN's up to a value of 174,180, according to a calculation by car selling website, Carwow. That's around the same price as a two-bed semi-detached home in St Helens. A reminder that Glasgows city centre #LowEmissionZone comes into force on 1 June. Check out our webpages to familiarise yourself with the LEZ boundary, the emission standards, exemptions, penalties & use the reg. checker to see if your vehicle complies.https://t.co/awHhaAWQAe pic.twitter.com/xqvxC987D5 Glasgow City Council (@GlasgowCC) May 25, 2023 When is the Glasgow LEZ operational? Like ULEZ, the Glasgow LEZ is operational 24 hours a day. However, unlike the London zone, there is no exception to its enforcement on Christmas Day, with Glasgow's zone running 365 days a year. How many drivers will be affected? Introduction of the zone will ultimately force thousands of drivers to ditch older cars if they haven't done so already. Glasgow City Council estimates that just 10 per cent of vehicles driven into the zone at the beginning of May failed to meet the LEZ standards required. Across Scotland, it is reported that just over a fifth of vehicles fail to meet the emissions standards, with the lowest compliance among diesel models. How do drivers pay a PCN issued for an LEZ breach? From 1 June, penalties can be paid via Glasgow City Councils website. Failure to make payment will result in enforcement action. Are any people exempt from the Glasgow LEZ? Exemptions are in place for residents living within the zone's limits with a non-compliant car. However, they will need to apply for an exemption and it is only valid until 1 June 2024. Operators of public-hire taxis can also apply for an exemption that ends on the same date. Blue Badge holders will not incur any penalties, though they also need to apply for this exemption. The Scottish LEZ site also says 'historic vehicles' older than 30 years will not be issued PCNs. Other exemptions include vehicles used by the police, ambulance and emergency services, Scottish Fire and Rescue, Her Majesty's Coastguard and the National Crime Agency. Military and 'showmen' vehicles - a 'highly specialised vehicle used for the purposes of travelling showmen, where the vehicle is used during the performance, used for the purpose of providing the performance or used for carrying performance equipment' - are exempt too. Experts warn it will damage Scotland's used car market Huge Griffiths, consumer editor at Carwow, says that while there's public acknowledgement that pollution levels - especially in big cities - need to be curtailed, the decision to introduce a scheme as harsh as Glasgow's LEZ is questionable in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis. With the Glasgow LEZ operational continuously, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round, it will force thousands of drivers to ditch their older cars - if they haven't done so already 'Its worth having the debate about whether this is fairer than the pay to pollute daily fee option provided by schemes such as Londons ULEZ,' Griffiths said. 'Its certainly interesting to note that the penalty-escalation scheme Glasgow is implementing could see drivers fined up to 174,180 a year if they drive into the zone every day. 'You really wouldnt want to move house and forget to change the address where your car is registered; the build up of penalties over time could be painfully expensive.' He also warned that the extension of the LEZ scheme to Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Dundee next year will have a huge impact on second hand car values in Scotland as drivers desperately offload non-compliant older models. 'Given the broad geographical area these cities span, and that (roughly) pre-2015 diesels and pre-2006 petrol cars will be banned from entering their centres, non-compliant cars could soon experience a marked drop in value north of the border,' he added. An eleventh-hour legal challenge failed to delay Glasgow's LEZ Despite enforcement of the zone due to start in less than 24 hours, the city council faced a legal challenge on Wednesday morning as a local businesses attempted to delay the scheme. According to The Herald, a media call organised by Glasgow City Council to publicise the zone going live on Thursday has been 'cancelled at the eleventh hour' this morning due to a court of session hearing. Patrons Accident Repairs Centre, a 60-year old garage operating in the Townhead area that's within the Glasgow zone, took the local authority to court claiming the move will put them out of business. However, the judge on Wednesday refused the motion, saying the balance of convenience lay heavily in favour of the local authority. The last minute effort to derail the LEZ coming into force followed calls earlier in the week from the Glasgow Labour Group, which called for enforcement to be pushed back by one year. Posting on Twitter on Monday, it said: 'This Thursday the Low Emission Zone will be implemented. 'We are calling for a delay in the implementation of the LEZ so that charities, businesses and workers can have more time to prepare as the cost-of-living crisis continues.' This Thursday the Low Emission Zone will be implemented. We are calling for a delay in the implementation of the LEZ so that charities, businesses and workers can have more time to prepare as the cost-of-living crisis continues. pic.twitter.com/E3EtSzhQp3 Glasgow Labour Group (@Labour_GCC) May 29, 2023 'LEZ is an important milestone for cleaner air in Glasgow', says SNP councillor Commenting on the zone coming into force, councillor Angus Millar, the SNP convener for climate and transport in Glasgow said earlier this month: 'Expanding the reach of the LEZ to include all vehicles is an important milestone in ensuring cleaner air for Glasgow - addressing levels and concentrations of air pollution which have remained stubbornly high in the city centre in breach of the legal limits. 'Poor air quality is harming Glaswegians' health and contributing to the city's health inequalities, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable. 'While the vast majority - up to 90 per cent - of vehicles currently entering the city centre will be unaffected, the LEZ standards will address the most polluting vehicles which are disproportionately creating the harmful concentrations of air pollution. 'We know that this will work - the first phase of implementation which focused on cleaning up the city's bus fleet, has already seen improvements in air quality, but only with a full roll-out will we realise the full benefits.' A dog bit my hand while I was travelling in France to visit my son. The medical bill for my treatment was 3,845 and I made a claim for this amount on my Staysure travel insurance policy. Three months later the claim has not been settled. I have always travelled with the security that I have my insurance policy as backup to pay for unforeseen expenses. But I have totally lost confidence in that being the case. I hope you can help me end this saga. S. L. B., St Helier, Jersey. Dogged determination: Staysure came back full of apologies and agreed to settle immediately for 3,845 after our agony aunt intervened Sally Hamilton replies: You were quietly enjoying some refreshments in a cafe, when suddenly a French bulldog launched itself across the terrace towards your table. You instinctively put your hand down towards it which you now regret as it proceeded to sink its teeth into your fingers. You went to Rennes University Hospital in Brittany, where your wound was dressed and you were prescribed antibiotics. But, as you continued your journey by car, the wound got worse. By the time you reached your son's property in the South of France, some days later, your hand had swollen to twice its normal size. You went to the local doctor who immediately referred you to a hand surgeon at a nearby clinic. The surgeon needed to give you an emergency operation within the hour. But before they started, the clinic asked for an advance payment equivalent to 3,845, which you paid. The next day, after recovering from general anaesthetic, you contacted Staysure to start your claim. You had to stay at your son's place for a couple of weeks while you recovered but did not claim any accommodation costs, which you might well have been entitled to. You sent Staysure 40 pages of original receipts with a letter of explanation. But despite hounding the insurer for weeks, your medical bills have not been met. Policyholders buy travel insurance for the peace of mind of knowing that a legitimate claim will be met promptly, so I decided it was time to bring the insurer to heel. After my intervention, Staysure went off to investigate and a few days later came back full of apologies and agreed to settle immediately for 3,845. A spokesman says: 'We are very sorry this customer experienced delays with his claim. Having now reviewed the case, it did take longer to process than normal and didn't meet the high level of service our customers expect. 'However, our team have been in direct contact with the customer to finalise the paperwork and we're pleased to report that the claim has now been settled.' For the delays, Staysure has also offered you 100 as a gesture of goodwill. The Ask-a-Doctor site offers access to qualified and verified UK-based doctors for an opinion, but at a price, as our reader found out Earlier this year I searched on Google for advice about a minor health matter relating to a medicated cream. I landed on the website Ask-a-Doctor and paid 5 for advice using my credit card. I was happy to pay this amount. However, shortly afterwards it deducted an extra 38 and then a month later, another 38. Neither sum was agreed, and I have been unable to make contact as I can't find a phone number. I have now changed my credit card, hoping this will end the matter. But I want my 76 returned. G. M., Glasgow. I had a house guest at the weekend who joked that he always refers to 'Dr Google' before consulting a human medic about any health condition. He's not the only one. Millions of us turn to the internet in search of generic information, including what's causing our ailments and how we might treat them. With GP appointments increasingly hard to come by, this sort of search can be just what the doctor ordered, certainly for minor complaints and if treated with caution. The Ask-a-Doctor site you landed on, which is run by U.S. firm JustAnswer, does offer access to qualified and verified UK-based doctors for an opinion. But at a price. It also has a huge pool of other experts, from plumbers and lawyers to vets and financial advisers. Anyone who visits the site needs to be wary, as it typically offers a low trial price of a few pounds to hook them in. This only lasts one week, after which they are billed a much higher monthly subscription fee. This continues until they cancel the subscription. It's not the first time I've had a complaint about this trap. Last year, a reader came to me after paying 5 to ask a question about state benefits and, like you, he cancelled his card as he feared the later payments were fraudulent. He wasn't being scammed, but the use of low introductory rates followed by a monthly subscription is a common tactic to watch out for. I put my own question to JustAnswer whether it could kindly return your 76? The company admits that people sometimes overlook or miss the terms of agreement with the service, but insisted that it wasn't its intention to mislead. As it wants customers to be happy, it prescribed you a full refund. The internet is a valuable tool for researching health conditions and getting support, according to the Patients Association, a charity that supports the rights and interests of patients and their families. But it warns that individuals should show any information they find to their own doctor for a qualified opinion. The charity's website offers useful tips on how to find trustworthy health advice online at patients-association.org.uk. Write to Sally Hamilton at Sally Sorts It, Money Mail, Northcliffe House, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TT or email sally@dailymail.co.uk include phone number, address and a note addressed to the offending organisation giving them permission to talk to Sally Hamilton. Please do not send original documents as we cannot take responsibility for them. No legal responsibility can be accepted by the Daily Mail for answers given. A prominent Purplebricks shareholder who made an 11th-hour takeover bid for the online estate agency last week has withdrawn its offer. Lecram Holdings - an investment vehicle run by Adam Smith - put forward a 0.5p per share proposal last Friday, valuing the company at around 1.5million. The approach came one week after Purplebricks agreed to be acquired and have its liabilities assumed by rival Strike Ltd for a token price of 1. Stand down: Lecram Holdings - an investment vehicle run by Adam Smith - has withdrawn its 0.5p per share proposal for struggling online estate agency Purplebricks Lecram said its alternative offer gave shareholders the 'certainty of cash now rather than vague promises from a discredited board of something more somewhere down the line'. But on Wednesday, Purplebricks told investors that Lecram had taken its proposal off the table and was not planning to make another bid. Lecram said in a separate statement: 'The reason leading to Lecram's decision not to proceed is, principally, that the financial condition of Purplebricks was found to be significantly worse than expected.' Purplebricks continues to recommend the Strike offer, which is set to be voted on at a general meeting this Friday. Strike is backed by Carphone Warehouse and TalkTalk founder Sir Charles Dunstone, who is also a partner at major Strike shareholder Freston Ventures and Channel 4's investment arm. The group's deal will involve Purplebricks paying up to 5.5million in cash from its balance sheet towards expenses and costs, but essentially wipe out investors. Paul Pindar, the firm's chairman, who also holds a 5 per cent stake in Purplebricks, admitted he was 'disappointed with the financial value outcome'. He added: 'However, there was no other proposal or offer which provided a better return for shareholders, with the same certainty of funding and speed of delivery necessary to provide the stability the company needs.' Lecram's Adam Smith has been a leading critic of Pindar, who has held his post since 2014 after spending more than two decades at outsourcing giant Capita, where he was managing director and later chief executive. Last November, Smith called on investors to oust Pindar and replace him with former Countrywide boss and Rightmove founder Harry Hill. In a public letter to shareholders, he said the chairman had presided over a 'disastrous' performance at Purplebricks, with its share price plummeting more than 99 per cent from its 2017 peak even while the broader UK property market had remained significantly buoyant. He also noted that the company had gone through four chief executives, five chief financial officers 'and many other changes in senior executives' during Pindar's tenure and has 'dwindling' cash resources. Yet at the shareholder meeting in December, his two resolutions failed to pass, with 71.7 per cent of votes opposing the motion to remove the chairman. Founded in 2012, Purplebricks was once valued at 1.4billion but has struggled for years with high losses caused by a failed expansion overseas, declining market share and difficulties in its lettings business. Purplebricks shares were 23.8 per cent, or 0.15p, down at 0.48p on late Wednesday afternoon. Bloomsbury Publishing has recorded its best ever annual performance, with its founder claiming hard-pressed consumers are turning to books amid the cost-of-living crisis. Turnover at the publishing house rose by 15 per cent to a record 264.1million for the 12 months ending February, following continued strong demand for Harry Potter books and titles by fantasy novelist Sarah J. Maas. Purchases of Maas's works climbed by over half thanks to the release of New York Times best-selling House of Sky and Breath, the latest in her Crescent City series, as well as backlist sales of books like A Court of Silver Flames. Treat: 'In challenging economic times, readers are turning to books as affordable as they cut back on more expensive forms of diversion,' said Bloomsbury founder Nigel Newton (pictured) Bloomsbury's other bestsellers during the year included Stolen Focus by Johann Hari, Bake by television star Paul Hollywood, and Martha Mumford's We're Going on an Egg Hunt and Five Little Easter Bunnies. Meanwhile, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone was the UK's third most popular children's book as fans of the iconic anthology celebrated its 25th anniversary. 'In challenging economic times, readers are turning to books as affordable as they cut back on more expensive forms of diversion,' said Bloomsbury founder and chief executive Nigel Newton. Book sales were already growing significantly prior to the current economic crisis as pandemic restrictions encouraged individuals to spend more time at home. But even after lockdowns ended, Newton predicted that the Covid-induced boom in reading would not fade because Covid forced people to 're-evaluate how we spend our time and our hobbies'. Pre-tax profits also surpassed forecasts last year to reach a record 31.1million, thanks to robust growth in its higher-margin Bloomsbury Digital Resources (BDR) business. Revenue from the division soared by 41 per cent, driven by massive sales of digital products and the takeover of California-based publishing group ABC-CLIO, which provides digital materials to educational institutions in the US. Bloomsbury now makes almost half its revenues in the US, compared to 27 per cent in the UK, a market it has sought to reduce its reliance on in recent years. Following the impressive performance, the company now aims to boost BDR's organic sales by 40 per cent in the coming five years to around 37million. Newton said the results 'demonstrate the strength of our strategy to publish for both the consumer and the academic markets, unusual in our industry, and to grow digital revenues while expanding globally'. The firm recently signed a four-book contract with Sarah J. Maas and expects the forthcoming Harry Potter television series produced by HBO Max will 'stimulate further interest' in the fantasy books. Bloomsbury Publishing shares were 0.7 per cent higher at 413.5p just before trading closed on Wednesday, meaning their value has grown by about 95 per cent in the past three years. The CBI has announced sweeping plans to overhaul its board and hire a new president as the business lobby group fights for survival after a damaging sex harassment scandal. The beleaguered group is urging members to back its plans at an emergency general meeting which is to be held next week. Yesterday it said Brian McBride, who has been president since the summer of 2022, could leave as soon as January next year, which is five months before his term ends. And four members of the CBI's board are also being replaced. Brian McBride could leave as soon as January next year - five months before his term ends Ffion Hague, a corporate governance expert and the wife of the former Conservative leader Lord Hague, will carry out a review of the way the organisation is run. With 190,000 members, the Confederation of British Industry boasts of influencing the Government on policies such as Covid support packages that helped many companies to survive Covid lockdowns. But the organisation has been beset by shocking claims of vile behaviour, including rape allegations that are being investigated by police. However in an announcement on its future plans yesterday, while acknowledging the need for change, the body said it had been cleared by independent experts of the suggestion that it had a 'toxic culture'. The 'prospectus' said that the CBI wanted to return to its position as the representative of all types of business to the Government. That prestige has disappeared after the sickening claims about goings-on at the organisation surfaced earlier this year prompting an exodus of big-name companies from Aviva to John Lewis. And the Government has since snubbed the CBI. Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt said last month that there was 'no point' talking to it after companies deserted it in droves. It remains to be seen whether changes announced yesterday will be enough to convince companies to return. Review: Ffion Hague, a corporate governance expert and the wife of the former Conservative leader Lord Hague Members will be asked in next week's vote whether the changes that have been made 'give you the confidence you need to support the CBI'. The organisation is also reportedly preparing to announce redundancies after the funding blow caused by the loss of dozens of companies and their annual subscriptions. It has told members that if it wins their backing the body can regain a place at the top table with ministers, advising on policy and lobbying over election manifesto commitments. Next week's crunch emergency general meeting, in which voting has already begun, comes after the CBI paused public activities in the wake of the scandal. The organisation has spent the last couple of months seeking the views of 1,000 business leaders on its future. The CBI said it had found that they wanted to see a 'strong, collective, national voice of business' established ahead of a general election which is likely to take place next year. Insiders are understood to be frustrated that the British Chambers of Commerce, a rival business lobby group, appears to have been trying to take over that role. CBI director-general Rain Newton-Smith said: 'Our members and colleagues have spoken. We have listened, we have acted and we are taking accountability. 'We shall learn the lessons and emerge from this as a stronger organisation, one that is able to share what we've learnt and regain the right to always be a trusted voice.' The UK's top private equity executives took home around 2.7billion in a year amid growing calls for higher taxes on the industry. A group of 255 dealmakers including Bridgepoint's William Jackson earned a slice of the haul through 'carried interest', profit made by executives on successful deals, across the 2020/21 tax year, according to analysis from law firm Macfarlanes. Carried interest is a key part of private equity pay and can often massively outstrip the base salaries of executives. But its tax status has been the subject of controversy in multiple countries. At the moment, carried interest is taxed as capital gains at 28 per cent, compared to the 45 per cent top rate of income tax. This means the UK taxman is estimated to be losing out on around 600million a year. The Labour party has said it will close the carried interest loophole, adding millions of pounds a year to the Treasury's coffers. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves have met private equity bosses as they seek investment in the UK. Macfarlanes has warned higher taxes on carried interest risked sparking an exodus of dealmakers. 'We just want to get this information out there so Labour look at it and give themselves some wiggle room,' said head of tax Damien Crossley. He added: 'Maybe they can say they have closed a loophole without shooting the golden goose.' The report said 2,550 executives made 3.4billion in carried interest in 2020/21, and paid 952million in tax. That 70s Show star Danny Masterson's wife Bijou Phillips broke down in tears on Wednesday as her visibly-shocked husband was found guilty of raping two women, and immediately denied bail and led to the cells. Phillips, an actress and teenage socialite whose Manhattan antics with the Hilton sisters made tabloid gold, was inconsolable as Masterson was led away in handcuffs. Judge Charlaine Olmedo ordered her to 'maintain her composure' or go outside. Phillips was supported in court by actor Billy Baldwin who is married to her half-sister Chynna. Bijou Phillips and Masterson are both Scientologists, and their faith featured heavily in the trial. All three women who accused Masterson testified that the reason they took so long to report him to the police was their fear of retribution from the Church of Scientology. They are also suing the actor and the Church of Scientology in civil court, claiming that they've been harassed and intimidated since reporting him to police. Bijou Phillips, wife of Danny Masterson, was supported on Wednesday by her brother-in-law, actor Billy Baldwin (right) A jury found Danny Masterson guilty on two of three rape counts on Wednesday. He's seen entering court Wednesday with wife Bijou Phillips Baldwin, the 60-year-old brother of Alec, Daniel and Stephen Baldwin, looked downbeat as he left court in LA on Wednesday The Scientologist, 47, was on trial for rape for a second time after his first ended in a mistrial in November, with a jury deadlocked on all counts Masterson played wise-cracking Steven Hyde on That '70s Show from 1998 to 2006 Bijou Phillips was an actress and teenage socialite who used to hang out with Paris Hilton Masterson looked stunned as jurors delivered their unanimous verdicts on two of the three charges, and he was handcuffed and taken to the cells. The jurors were deadlocked on the third count. Last year, Masterson was tried on the same charges, but the case collapsed when the jurors were left hopelessly deadlocked. Now, Masterson could get 30 years in prison when he is sentenced. The judge ordered Masterson who had been free on $3.3 million bail since his arrest three years ago to be taken into custody, and scheduled a hearing for August 4, where his attorneys will argue for bail to be reinstated. Immediately after Judge Olmedo announced she was remanding the actor, a sheriff's bailiff pulled his arms behind his back and handcuffed him. Bijou Phillips is seen leaving court today for lunch on the day that the verdict was read out. She burst out in tears as the jury of seven women and eight men gave their verdicts and was asked by Judge Charlaine Olmedo to 'maintain her composure' or go outside The actor wearing a dark blue suit and white, open-neck shirt faces up to 30 years in prison on the rape convictions: 15 for each one. He will also have to register as a sex offender. The verdicts on Wednesday came on the eighth day of jury deliberations. Jurors found him guilty of raping victims Jane Doe One and Jane Doe Two. On the third charge of raping Jane Doe Three, the jury was 'hopelessly deadlocked' at eight in favor of guilty and four in favor of not guilty. A judge ordered he be taken into custody and scheduled a hearing for August 4. Bijou was wearing a dark blue dress with white polka dots as she arrived to court with her husband Masterson's attorney, Philip Cohen, argued that his client should be allowed to remain on bail, wearing an electronic monitor and being kept on 24-hour house arrest. But Judge Olmedo rejected his plea saying Masterson's offenses were 'serious and violent felonies' and called him a 'potential flight risk.' Reinhold Mueller, the deputy district attorney, told the court that he agreed with Judge Olmedo's decision to revoke Masterson's bail, echoing her comment and saying: 'These were serious and violent offenses.' On the charge of raping Jane Doe 3 which jurors remained hung on the judge asked 'if there is any reasonable possibility of arriving at a verdict.' The female jury foreperson answered 'No,' adding that the panel voted five times without being able to come up with a unanimous decision. Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon said in a statement after the verdict: 'In April 2003, Masterson raped a 28-year-old woman and sometime between October and December of that year he sexually assaulted a 23-year-old woman who he had invited to his Hollywood Hills home. 'We want to express our gratitude to the three women who came forward and bravely shared their experiences. Their courage and strength have been an inspiration to us all. 'While we are disappointed that the jury did not convict on all counts, we respect their decision. The verdicts handed down by the jury in this case were undoubtedly a difficult one to reach and we thank the jurors for their service.' Masterson who played smart-mouthed Steven Hyde on That '70s Show was accused of raping the three women at his Hollywood Hills home between 2001 and 2003. He pleaded not guilty to all the charges and he was looking at a sentence of 45 years to life in prison if he had been convicted on all three. His accusers, who DailyMail.com is identifying only as Jane Does 1 through 3 are all former Scientologists. In their civil case they claim that they've been harassed and intimidated since reporting him to police. A status hearing on that case is scheduled for June 28. They said that church officials warned them not to use the word rape; that turning in a fellow Scientologist to law enforcement was considered a 'high crime'; and if they disobeyed that doctrine, they could be declared a 'suppressive person' cast out by the church and left alone, cut off from family and friends. In the second trial, prosecutors put much more emphasis than they did in the first on their claims that Masterson drugged his alleged victims by spiking drinks he gave them before raping them. Calling Masterson a 'predator', Deputy District Attorney Ariel Anson said in her closing argument: 'It all starts with a drink. This is his playbook. 'The defendant drugged his victims to be in control. When he drugs them, he is completely able to control them. And he does it over and over again.' Her prosecuting partner, Mueller, added as he pointed at Masterson 'After they were drugged, they were raped by this man over here. 'It's beyond reasonable doubt that this man drugged these women and raped them. It's time to hold Mr Masterson accountable for what he's done.' Masterson's lawyer, Philip Cohen, objected Wednesday to the prosecution's frequent referrals to his client drugging his alleged victims before raping them and called for a mistrial, saying, 'drugging does not constitute forcible rape.' Leah Remini and Danny Masterson pictured at a benefit dinner and concert for Project Restart and the New York Rescue Workers Detoxification Project, November 3, 2007 in Las Vegas Actress Leah Remini is pictured in court during Danny Masterson's rape trial, on April 24 But Judge Olmedo denied his mistrial motion, telling him that when considering drugging and use of force in a rape case, 'one does not necessarily preclude the other.' Cohen, pointed out that there are no toxicology reports to back up the 20-year-old drugging allegations against his client who has always maintained that the sex with the three Jane Does was 'consensual.' Another difference between the two trials was the addition in the second of testimony from another 'victim' a woman who claimed Masterson raped her in Toronto in 2000, though he was never charged with the alleged assault. Prosecutors added her to the witness list to establish a pattern of 'prior bad acts' by Masterson. But Cohen dismissed the move, saying the new accuser was brought in for the retrial to 'save the case' for the DA. Of the three women whose rape Masterson was charged with, Jane Doe 1 had told the court in the first trial that in April 2003 she was at the actor's house where he gave her a fruity red drink with vodka that made her feel woozy. She said he then threw her in his Jacuzzi and carried her upstairs where she passed out, and woke up to find him raping her She fought back, pushed a pillow into his face, she told the jury. But he pushed it back into her face, smothering her and she blacked out again. When she woke, she said, Masterson opened a bedside drawer and pulled out a gun which he brandished, telling her: 'Don't f**king move.' Jane Doe 3 who lived with Masterson for six years was only 17 when she met him and he persuaded her to become a Scientologist, the court heard. About a year into their relationship he became very controlling and very aggressive sexually. She said she would often wake up at night and he would be on top of her, having sex with her. In one such incident in November 2001, when she woke up to find him having sex with her, she told him no and tried to push him off, the court heard. When that didn't work, she pulled his hair. But he retaliated by hitting her across the face and calling her 'white trash,' said prosecutors. Scientology was front and center during both criminal trials. All three women testified that the reason they took so long to report him to the police was their fear of retribution from the Church of Scientology Jane Doe 2 met Masterson at a bar in 2003 and gave him her phone number. He called her and invited her to his home. She went, and, the court heard, after having a drink and a stint in his Jacuzzi, she found herself in his bathroom shower with him where he 'suddenly shoved his penis into her vagina. 'She said no, I told you no sex.' They ended up in Masterson's bed where, despite her protests, he flipped her over and started pounding her from behind 'like a jackhammer,' she testified, adding that she felt 'like a limp rag doll.' Masterson's attorney, Cohen, challenged 'inconsistencies' in the women's testimony and statements to police, accusing them of 'blatant fabrications.' And he asserted that the three had 'colluded,' choreographing and 'tweaking' their rape stories to help get Masterson convicted which in turn could help them win a big cash payout in the civil lawsuit they have brought against him and the Church of Scientology. Before the judge turned the case over to the jury just before 10am on May 17, Mueller countered Cohen's 'inconsistencies' argument, telling jurors: 'Don't be fooled - he (Cohen) is trying to get you to think there is a grand conspiracy. 'Each of these victims spoke individually about what happened to them before they spoke to each other. So how is that a conspiracy? 'There is no conspiracy. There was no tweaking. He's guilty. 'It's not reasonable to believe any of these victims were lying.' The Church of Scientology issued a statement following the conclusion of the trial: 'The prosecutions introduction of religion into this trial was an unprecedented violation of the First Amendment and affects the due process rights of every American. The Church was not a party to this case and religion did not belong in this proceeding as Supreme Court precedent has maintained for centuries. 'The District Attorney unconscionably centered his prosecution on the defendants religion and fabrications about the Church to introduce prejudice and inflame bigotry. The DA elicited testimony and descriptions of Scientology beliefs and practices which were uniformly FALSE. 'The Courts statement of Church doctrine was her own invention, DEAD WRONG, and blatantly unconstitutional. 'The Church has no policy prohibiting or discouraging members from reporting criminal conduct of anyoneScientologists or notto law enforcement. Quite the opposite, Church policy explicitly demands Scientologists abide by all laws of the land. All allegations to the contrary are totally FALSE. 'There is not a scintilla of evidence supporting the scandalous allegations that the Church harassed the accusers. Every single instance of supposed harassment by the Church is FALSE, and has been debunked.' When British winemakers Mark and Sarah Driver realised their world-first Arctic-water-aged sparkling wine was resting on the sea bed surrounded by Norway's Seven Sisters mountains, it was a moment they simply described as serendipity. The husband and wife behind the Rathfinny Wine Estate - whose East Sussex vineyard is surrounded by Britain's own stunning Seven Sisters landscape - were overwhelmed with pride as they witnessed their wax-sealed bottles brought to shore in Norway's Sandnessjoen earlier this month. Project Havets Bobler, which translates as 'Bubbles from the Sea', involved 1,700 Rathfinny Classic Cuvee 2018 bottles being sunk to 34m on the famed 66 degrees north latitude just shy of the Arctic Circle - for six months ahead of being poured this summer. Such a special occasion was inaugurated by the mayor of Sandnessjoen who dressed in his regalia spoke of his immense pride that the waters in this small Norwegian town with a population of 6,000 had acted as a perfect wine cellar thanks to the lack of light, increased pressure and constant low temperatures. Stored at around 5C, the aim was to create a smoother and rounder texture, while generating softer bubbles by slowing the maturation process. However, wine experts also found the wine retained more vibrancy and freshness than anticipated and delivered 'refreshing citrus tones to a mineral salty finish, like an oyster'. Norway's Hurtigruten - famed for their premium ships which sail both tourists and locals through Norway's stunning fjords and mountains - will offer the Havets Bobler bottles on board as their passengers are navigated across the Norwegian Sea. Rathfinny's Mark and Sarah Driver (pictured in Norway) said it was serendipity that their bottles were sunk to the ocean floor surrounded by Norway's Seven Sisters. Their East Sussex vineyard lies next to Britain's Seven Sisters Some 1,700 bottles of British sparkling wine were raised (pictured) from Arctic waters in Norway in a world first The sea bed acted as a perfect wine cellar thanks to the lack of light, increased pressure and constant low temperatures. Pictured: The wax-sealed bottles after they were lifted from the sea 'Havets Bobler' (pictured) which translates as 'Bubbles from the Sea' will be served on Hurtigruten ships from June While divers have buried bottles of wine on the floors of the Baltic Sea and in the warmer Mediterranean, this is the first time the method has been tested in Arctic waters. Reflecting on the past 18 months, Mark Driver tells me over a glass of his vintage sparkling wine: 'When Hurtigruten came to see us last year, we showed them the Seven Sisters in Sussex which is our local landmark and it's even shown on the top of our bottles. What are the benefits of sinking sparkling wine in Arctic waters? Steady temperature of around 5C Severe lack of light Constant pressure Advertisement 'We were talking about it and they said "Well there's the Seven Sisters in Norway". What we didn't realise was that it was here in Sandnessjoen. So when we got here and they said "Look there's the Seven Sisters", we just thought well that's serendipity. 'You've got this incredible landmark that we know quite well in England and it's such a famous line of cliffs. To have the Seven Sisters in Norway, it's this lovely collaboration and synergy.' Etched with pride and passion on her face, his wife Sarah adds: 'It's brilliant to see Sussex wine being served and welcomed and celebrated. It's just lovely taking a little bit of England and Sussex across the world. 'It's just been really exciting to witness the whole operation of bringing these wine bottles up from the bottom of the sea.' After watching the elaborate raising of the bottles through the use of cranes and underwater drones, Norway's best sommelier of 2023 was on hand to sabre the first of 1,700 bottles with a giant silver knife fit for the occasion. The British sparkling wine will be served on Hurtigruten ships (pictured) - which navigate tourists and locals along Norway's rugged coastline Divers look at the cages of wine through the use of underwater drones to help them guide the bottles to shore Norway's best sommelier of 2023 Nikolai Haram Svorte (pictured) sabres the first of 1,700 bottles in Norway's Sandnessjoen Mr Svorte (centre) inspect the wine alongside Sarah Driver (right) and Hurtigruten's beverage director Tani Gurra (left) Removing the wax seal in one smooth motion, Nikolai Haram Svorte then poured himself a glass, swilling the wine around in true sommelier style as all eyes darted towards him. Rathfinny's Classic Cuvee 2018 sparkling wine RELEASE DATE: February 2022 BLEND: 50% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Meunier TIME IN BOTTLE: 30 months FERMENTATION: Inoculated with commercial yeast, fermented in stainless steel tanks at 16C pH: 3.10 TA. 6.6 g/l DOSAGE: 5 g/l MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION: 100% FINING AGENT. Isinglass ABV. 12% The Havets Bobler edition has been sunk in Artic waters for an additional six months at around 5C. Advertisement It was high praise from Mr Svorte - who while sniffing, sipping and surveying - described the six month experiment as 'revealing a unique setting to store and age sparkling wine'. Speaking to a crowd waiting in anticipation, he said: 'After only six months submerged in Arctic waters this method has ensured the wine remains noticeably vibrant and in great condition by delicately slowing the maturation. 'I'd expect to taste a rounder mouthfeel and softer bubbles, but to my surprise, the wine has retained more freshness than I anticipated. From the refreshing citrus tones to a mineral salty finish, like an oyster, it's clear to me that this hugely intriguing experiment has revealed a unique setting to store and age sparkling wine.' This June, the wine will be served to passengers on board Hurtigruten ships - which since 1893 have carried freight and local travellers along the rugged Norway coastline, calling in at 34 ports along the way. Although the wine will be limited to the Norwegian market for now, Mark hopes the success of their product will encourage more tourists to visit their winery in East Sussex. Founded in 2010, Rathfinny has fast become a trusted brand as it looks to compete with luxurious French champagnes. Once a working arable farm, the first vines were planted in 2012 and today the Rathfinny vineyard comprises over 230 acres of predominantly Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. The moment that the wine was pulled up from the sea bed after six months in Arctic waters Mr Svorte described the experiment as 'revealing a unique setting to store and age sparkling wine' This June, the wine will be served to passengers on board Hurtigruten ships - which since 1893 have carried freight and local travellers along the rugged Norway coastline, calling in at 34 ports along the way As a wine expert, Mark tells me how the Arctic waters were perfect for housing Rahtfinny's wine for six months. 'The seabed has this steady temperature,' he explains. 'That's what you want when you store your wines. When you store wine, don't put them in a garage because it's freezing cold in winter and boiling hot in summer. 'That's why you always think about a cellar because it's generally a steady temperature. The seabed, particularly here, is at a steady temperature throughout. It's generally between 8-10 degrees, when you get a little bit lower it's 5-6 degrees. That's the really exciting thing. 'Traditional method sparkling wine needs to be aged in a cellar. What better cellar can you have than these Arctic waters.' Hurtigruten's Beverage director Tani Gurra, who concocted the idea of ageing sparkling wine in the Arctic, tells me: 'I am truly very very happy with the outcome and how it turned out. It's a special day.' Revealing why the bottles were sunk in this specific area of Norway, he adds: 'It's the area that we sail, just very close by. And I wanted to come up as close to the Arctic Circle as possible, we are not that far here. 'This area, especially where we put the cages, it's very protected from the wind and currents and the sand bed was perfect for doing this. 'We are part of the sea, we work on the sea, we sail among the sea. We see the sea as part of our life everyday so actually being inspired by the Arctic sea, the idea came to us on board, sailing by and thinking about it. 'We see the sea as our fish tank, the mountains as our herb, why not the sea as our wine cellar. People thought we were different but here we are. It turned out fantastic.' Tani hopes to put 4,500 more bottles down on the sea bed next year, while they will also experiment with leaving wines on the ocean floor for longer time periods. While partnering with a British brand, Hurtigruten prides itself on supporting local businesses - including Lofoten Seaweed - which I was fortunate to visit during a tour of Norway's coastline. Fisherman's daughter Angelita and foodie Tamara may be from opposite sides of the world, but after meeting while studying a physiotherapy masters in Brisbane, they soon discovered their shared belief that the future of food is in the ocean. When Angelita returned home to Lofoten with Tamara, they suddenly realised they were sitting on a goldmine thanks to the fast-flowing, nutrient rich waters which provide optimal conditions for their seaweed. Their products are served on the ships where more than 80 per cent of ingredients used in the on board restaurants are locally sourced. From June 3, passengers will be served Rathfinny's Arctic-water-aged Classic Cuvee. It remains to be seen whether this expensive concept will take off in the future, but it certainly got a thumbs up from all those involved on its first outing. Do you know more? Contact: brittany.chain@mailonline.com Political insiders are questioning why Brittany Higgins gets to keep her generous taxpayer-funded payout - which could be worth up to $3million - despite charges against her accused rapist Bruce Lehrmann being dropped. Whenever the Brittany Higgins matter is raised by 2GB's breakfast show host Ben Fordham, callers always question whether she should keep the money and demand to know why there's been no explanation around her secretive settlement. Both the Labor Government and the Opposition are refusing to be drawn publicly on questions about the payout, citing the ongoing inquiry by retired judge Walter Sofronoff into the DPP's investigation and prosecution of Lehrmann. But discussions around the payment are not going to go away. Ms Higgins lodged a civil suit against her employers, former Liberal ministers Linda Reynolds and Michaelia Cash and the well as the Commonwealth, over the handling of her sexual assault allegations during her time as a parliamentary staffer. After mediation lasting just one day in December 2022 - after her criminal case against Bruce Lehrmann crumbled - Ms Higgins walked away with an undisclosed sum, which could be as much as $3million. Ms Higgins angrily maintains the actual payout is substantially lower, but has refused to confirm by exactly how much. Ms Higgins lodged a civil suit against her employers over the handling of her sexual assault allegations during her time as a parliamentary staffer When Mr Ashby - now Pauline Hanson's chief of staff - made an application to the department of finance to cover legal bills he accumulated, the matter was dismissed While everyday Australians question the payout, Canberra insiders will only speak off-the-record and point to another case involving James Ashby, who worked as a media advisor to Peter Slipper from December 2011 and October 2012. Mr Ashby accused the then Labor government Speaker Peter Slipper of sexual harassment and misuse of expenses, but only wound up with a $4.5million in legal debt. 'In [Ms Higgins'] case, they supported the accuser. But in [Mr Ashby's] case, they funded [the accused],' one said. Mr Ashby - now Pauline Hanson's chief of staff - made an application to the Department of Finance to cover legal bills he accumulate paid for. In 2012, Mr Ashby alleged he had been harassed by Mr Slipper when he was employed as a staffer in his office. The allegations consisted of hundreds of inappropriate text messages and unwanted sexual advances. Over the course of the next two years, the pair were locked in legal battles which eventuated in the case being dismissed. Labor's Acting Special Minister of State, Gary Gray, took the extraordinary step of announcing the Commonwealth would cover all of Mr Slipper's legal costs to fight the allegations. Ms Higgins worked in the offices of both Linda Reynolds and Michaelia Cash 'We need to guard against an increasingly litigious society where politically-motivated litigation has the potential to improperly influence the work of MPs and Senators and the Parliament,' Mr Gray said at the time. 'I acknowledge that it is unusual for a Minister to make specific comments about act of grace payments, due to a need to safeguard the privacy of individuals.' Mr Ashby later appealed to the Department of Finance to cover his legal costs. In 2022, this request was refused. 'Labor's response couldn't have been further apart for the two,' an insider said. Not a single question from an MP has been made about the payment to Ms Higgins. But several commentators and senior parliamentary sources have called on the Government to be more transparent. In February, Fordham said on 2GB: 'The government should reveal why it settled the compensation claim and they should tell us how much money was paid.' 'Eventually people are going to want to know how much was handed over. crucially we're talking about a case where the allegations were firmly denied and we know that in the end the court case fell apart.' In February, 2GB's Ben Fordham said: 'The government should reveal why it settled the compensation claim and they should tell us how much money was paid,' he said during a segment on air And influential Herald Sun columnist Andrew Bolt also asked in February: 'Why did the Albanese government still hand Higgins up to $3m for an unproven rape and unproven cruelty from the Morrison government?' During the mediation hearing, Ms Higgins' boss, Linda Reynolds, was told she must not attend the hearing, or provide any evidence. She alleged she was told the government would backflip on an assurance to pay her legal fees if she attended the hearing. Andrew Bolt, in a column for the Herald Sun, said: 'Why did the Albanese government still hand Higgins up to $3m for an unproven rape and unproven cruelty from the Morrison government?' The mediation and settlement was in response to a civil claim and did not represent any finding in the criminal matter, which had already been dropped after Lehrmann's lengthy trial ended in juror misconduct. Chris Merritt, Vice President of the Rule of Law Institute and legal affairs contributor for The Australian, said: 'It is difficult to see how the Higgins settlement complies with the longstanding rules governing the way the federal government is supposed to deal with monetary claims. 'It is also difficult to see how those responsible for this settlement could not perceive that outlaying taxpayers' money in breach of those rules might trigger the interest of regulators including the National Anti-Corruption Commission.' Mr Merritt argued there were only two possible avenues for Ms Higgins to be awarded a payout exceeding $100,000. First, a legal professional would have been required to state the settlement reflected the claim a 'meaningful prospect of success in a court of law'. Labor's Acting Special Minister of State at the time made the extraordinary step of announcing the Commonwealth's intention to cover all of Mr Slipper's legal costs to fight the allegations raised by Mr Ashby Alternatively, the Attorney General could intervene to determine usual precedent should not apply in this case, deeming it an 'exceptional circumstance'. It is unclear which route the mediation took. Scott Morrison has been repeatedly criticised for apologising to Ms Higgins on the floor of parliament when the court proceedings had not concluded. 'I am sorry. We are sorry,' Mr Morrison told Parliament. 'I'm sorry to Ms Higgins for the terrible things that took place here. And the place that should have been a place of safety and contribution turned out to be a nightmare. 'But I am sorry for far more than that, for all of those who came before Ms Higgins and endured the same.' Mr Morrison was later forced to clarify his apology had nothing to do with the criminal allegations before the court after backlash from the accused's lawyer. The apology was described as concerning and hypocritical, given so many complainants prior to Ms Higgins had not received similar treatment. Bruce Lehrmann has always maintained his innocence, and the charge against him was dropped Scott Morrison has been criticised for apologising to Brittany Higgins before the criminal proceedings against Mr Lehrmann had concluded Such payouts are rarely made public. Former press secretary Rachelle Miller, who was romantically involved with Liberal frontbencher Alan Tudge, reportedly received a six-figure taxpayer-funded payout following an investigation into allegations of abuse. Ms Miller alleged he had been emotionally and in one instance, physically abusive towards her during the pair's consensual affair - claims Mr Tudge emphatically denied. While he was cleared of breaching ministerial guidelines, Mr Morrison's government settled with a payout and reimbursement of legal costs. NATO will send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests after clashes with ethnic Serbs there left 30 international soldiers wounded, the alliance announced Tuesday. The latest violence in the region has stirred fear of a renewal of the 1998-99 conflict in Kosovo that claimed more than 10,000 lives, left more than 1 million people homeless and resulted in a NATO peacekeeping mission that has lasted nearly a quarter of a century. The clashes grew out of a confrontation that unfolded last week after ethnic Albanian officials elected in votes overwhelmingly boycotted by Serbs entered municipal buildings to take office. When Serbs tried to block them, Kosovo police fired tear gas to disperse the crowd. More violence followed on Monday when Serbs clashed with police and NATO peacekeepers. Kosovo police officer jumps from the armoured vehicle as soldiers of NATO-led international peacekeeping Kosovo Force (KFOR) lie injured Ethnic Serbs sit on the street in front of the cordon of soldiers of NATO-led international peacekeeping Kosovo Force (KFOR) in front of the building of the municipality in Zvecan, Kosovo NATO Kosovo Force (KFOR) soldiers clash with local Kosovo Serb protesters at the entrance of the municipality office, in the town of Zvecan, Kosovo A car burns after NATO Kosovo Force (KFOR) soldiers clashed with local Kosovo Serb protesters at the entrance of the municipality office, in the town of Zvecan, Kosovo Soldiers of NATO-led international peacekeeping Kosovo Force (KFOR) lie injured after a scuffle with ethnic Serbs in front of the building of the municipality in Zvecan, Kosovo NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said an additional reserve battalion would be put on high readiness in case additional troops are needed. 'These are prudent steps,' said Stoltenberg, who made the announcement in Oslo after talks with the Norwegian prime minister. The NATO-led peacekeeping mission in the region is known as KFOR and currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. Also Tuesday, KFOR's multinational peacekeepers used metal fences and barbed-wire barriers to reinforce positions in a northern town that has become a hot spot. The troops sealed off the municipal building in Zvecan, where unrest on Monday sent tensions soaring. A former province of Serbia, Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence is not recognized by Belgrade. Ethnic Albanians make up most of the population, but Kosovo has a restive Serb minority in the north of the country bordering Serbia. Stoltenberg condemned the violence and warned that NATO troops would 'take all necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens in Kosovo.' He urged both sides to refrain from 'further irresponsible behaviour' and to return to EU-backed talks on improving relations. The United States and most European Union nations have recognized Kosovo's independence from Serbia while Russia and China have sided with Belgrade. China on Tuesday expressed its support for Serbia's efforts to 'safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity,' and Moscow has repeatedly criticized Western policies in the dispute. In response to the confrontation last week, Serbia put the country's military on the highest state of alert and sent more troops to the border with Kosovo. The Serbs protested again Monday, insisting that both ethnic Albanian mayors and Kosovo police must leave northern Kosovo. The confrontations worsened when Serbs attempted to enter the municipal offices in Zvecan, 28 miles north of the capital, Pristina. They clashed first with Kosovo police and then with the international peacekeepers. German KFOR soldiers guard municipal building after yesterday's clashes between ethnic Serbs and troops from the NATO-led KFOR peacekeeping force Polish soldiers, part of the peacekeeping mission in Kosovo KFOR, guard a municipal building in the town of Zvecan, northern Kosovo, Tuesday, May 30, 2023 Polish soldiers, part of the peacekeeping mission in Kosovo KFOR, rest in front of a municipal building in the town of Zvecan, northern Kosovo In a video message issued Tuesday evening, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said the mayors elected on April 23 'are the only ones who have the legitimacy to be at the municipal buildings and to the citizens' service.' Instigators of the violence have been identified, according to the prime minister, who named some Serb businessmen who oblige their employees to protest. 'In Kosovo, power is won through elections, not with violence and crime,' he said. The United States and the EU recently stepped up their efforts to negotiate an agreement between Serbia and Kosovo, fearing instability as Russia's war rages in Ukraine. The EU has made it clear to both Serbia and Kosovo that they must normalize relations if they're to make any progress toward joining the bloc. 'We have too much violence in Europe already today. We cannot afford another conflict,' the EU's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, told reporters Tuesday in Brussels. As a first step to easing tensions, he said, Kosovo police should suspend the operation focusing on municipal buildings in the north, and violent protesters should 'stand down.' In response to the recent unrest, NATO has decided to increase its KFOR troops with the deployment of 'operational reserve forces' for the Western Balkans, a statement said, without specifying a number. Another unit will be on standby 'to be ready to reinforce KFOR if necessary.' A statement issued Tuesday by KFOR said 30 soldiers - 11 Italians and 19 Hungarians - were hurt, including fractures and burns from improvised explosive incendiary devices. Three Hungarian soldiers were 'wounded by the use of firearms,' but their injuries were not life-threatening, the statement added. Serb officials said 52 people were injured, including three seriously. Four protesters were detained, according to Kosovo police. KFOR soldiers, front, and Kosovo police officers guard a municipal building after yesterday's clashes between ethnic Serbs and troops from the NATO-led KFOR peacekeeping force KFOR soldiers, front, and Kosovo police officers guard a municipal building 'Both parties need to take full responsibility for what happened and prevent any further escalation, rather than hide behind false narratives,' KFOR commander Maj. Gen. Angelo Michele Ristuccia said. Belgrade and Pristina have blamed each other for the escalation. Meanwhile, ambassadors from the so-called Quint countries - France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the U.S. - met Monday with Kurti in Pristina and on Tuesday with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Belgrade. Vucic later also met with the ambassadors in Serbia of Russia and China. In a statement from his office, Vucic expressed 'immense dissatisfaction and strong concern' over what he described as international 'tolerance' of Kurti's actions that fueled violence against Serbs. Urgent measures to guarantee the security of the Serbs in Kosovo are a precondition for any future talks, Vucic insisted. Kurti has thanked KFOR troops for 'valiant action to preserve peace in the face of violent extremism.' Russia and China both have sharply criticized Western backing for Kosovo's independence. Russian President Vladimir Putin often has cited the 'precedent' of NATO bombardment of Serbia in 1999 to justify his unlawful annexation of parts of Ukraine. The conflict in Kosovo erupted in 1998 when separatist ethnic Albanians rebelled against Serbia's rule, and Serbia responded with a brutal crackdown. About 13,000 people, mostly ethnic Albanians, died. NATO's military intervention in 1999 eventually forced Serbia to pull out of the territory and paved the way for the establishment of the KFOR peacekeeping mission. More than half a million teachers are keen to be armed in class to stop a school attacker in their tracks, according to a survey on mass shooting bloodbaths at the nation's schools. The Rand Corporation study found that a fifth of respondents said arming teachers would make classrooms safer, while more than half said they would become more dangerous. That would amount to 550,000 of the country's 3 million K-12 teachers packing heat in class, if they were allowed, researchers said. The survey comes on the heels of 300 shootings at US schools last year, which left some 330 people dead or injured, the study said. A fifth of America's teachers support arming educators, but more than half say schools would become less safe School teachers and administrators fire their guns at a training session in Commerce City, Colorado They include the gunman who killed 19 children and two teachers at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, last May. In March, trans shooter Audrey Hale's blasted into a Nashville school, shooting and killing three nine-year-olds and three staffers. Conservatives and liberals have long rowed about whether arming teachers would deter attackers or give children a better chance in such an outrage. Republican politicians in Texas, Tennessee, and other states this year proposed bills to allow teachers to carry firearms in class. The Texas plan involved raising a teacher's salary by $25,000 if they became such a 'sentinel.' Poll Arming teachers would make schools safer Agree Disagree Not sure Arming teachers would make schools safer Agree 102 votes Disagree 46 votes Not sure 4 votes Now share your opinion Former president Donald Trump, a Republican who seeks the presidency again in 2024, has backed arming teachers, saying military veterans and those with firearms training were ideal. Everytown for Gun Safety, a campaign group, says more guns in schools only raises the chance of somebody getting shot. 'Schools are places for books and backpacks, not weapons,' the group says. Heather Schwartz, an author of the 28-page RAND report, says teachers are divided on the hot-button issue. 'Even with the unfortunate regularity of gun violence in US schools only 5 percent of teachers overall selected gun violence as their largest safety concern,' said Schwartz. White teachers were more likely than black teachers to say arming educators would make schools safer. Male teachers in rural schools were the most likely to say they would personally carry a firearm at school, if they were allowed. About half of teachers supported other ways to make schools safer, including locks on doors, ID badges, cameras, and security staff. Only 5 percent of teachers said these measures dented the school atmosphere. An 'active shooter' training session at the Harry S Truman High School in Levittown, Pennsylvania Teachers need pencils, not pistols: a sign from a protest rally in New Mexico against arming educators Though teachers are alarmed by gun violence, their bigger worry was bullying, said the nationwide survey taken late last year. 'Everyday school violence is a concern for teachers,' Schwartz added. 'Bullying, not active shooters, was teachers' most common top safety concern, followed by fights and drugs.' Families and loved ones last week mourned the loss of 19 children and two teachers shot dead in Uvalde, on the anniversary of the bloodbath. There have been at least 25 mass killing incidents in the US so far in 2023, leaving at least 127 people dead, not including perpetrators who died, according to a database maintained by Northeastern University. That makes 2023 the worst year since 2006 for the rate of mass killing incidents. Firearms are the biggest killer of children in the US and so far this year, nearly 600 minors have died by guns. As of 2020, the firearm mortality rate for children under 19 is 5.6 per 100,000 deaths. The next comparable is Canada, with .08 per 100,000 deaths. A fertility doctor accused of using his own sperm to impregnate patients has died after the hand-built plane he was a passenger in fell apart mid-flight and crashed. Dr. Morris Wortman, 72, of Rochester, was traveling in the experimental aircraft which went down Sunday in a pasture in Orleans County, killing both him and the pilot, Earl Luce Jr., authorities said. The crash of the aircraft, identified by the National Transportation Safety Board as a Wittman W-5 Buttercup airplane, remained under investigation Tuesday. Preliminary findings indicate that 'the wings of the aircraft became detached from the fuselage and fell to the ground in an orchard,' Sheriff Christopher Bourke said in a news release Monday. The fuselage continued west for another 1,000 to 1,500 yards before crashing. The NTSBP confirmed that it was investigating the 'crash of a Wittman W-5 Buttercup', which Luce, 70, had built in an effort to replicate the original plane constructed by Steve Wittman. Dr. Morris Wortman (pictured), a fertility doctor accused of using his own sperm to impregnate patients, was a passenger in the experimental aircraft which went down Sunday in a pasture in Orleans County The NTSBP confirmed that it was investigating the 'crash of a Wittman W-5 Buttercup (pictured)', which Luce, 70, had built in an effort to replicate the original plane constructed by Steve Wittman The Aviation Safety Network reports that the registration of the plane was N18263 - which matches the description of the one that Luce (pictured) had built The Aviation Safety Network reports that the registration of the plane was N18263 - which matches the description of the one that Luce had built. His friend Wortman was a well-known gynecologist in western New York who was often the target of anti-abortion protesters. Wortman was sued in 2021 by Morgan Hellquist, the daughter of one of his patients, whose mom became pregnant in the 1980s. In January 1985, it was alleged he inseminated her mom, Jo Ann Levy, with sperm which he claimed was that of a medical student but was in fact his. The lawsuit said the doctor secretly used his own sperm while telling the patient the donor had been a local medical student. It said Wortman kept the secret even after the daughter, his biological offspring, became his gynecology patient. The daughter discovered that Wortman was the donor after DNA genealogy tests revealed she had at least nine half-siblings, her medical malpractice suit said. The civil lawsuit, which is pending in Monroe County Court, said follow-up DNA testing with Wortmans daughter from his first marriage confirmed the genetic link. According to the lawsuit, Hellquist's mom was treated by Wortman between 1983 and 1985 where she received sperm injections around two or three times a month for $50 each. Wortman (pictured) was a well-known gynecologist in western New York who was often the target of anti-abortion protesters Hellquist, who was born in September 1985, went on to get married and have children. Wortman was her gynecologist between 2012 and 2021, the lawsuit said. Wortman was called a 'miracle' by Hellquist's parents after her mom became pregnant with her in 1985 after an unsuccessful line of previous attempts. It wasn't until 2021 - after he had been treating her for nine years - that Hellquist learned from a DNA test that he was likely her biological dad. She claims that he knew he was her father during the nine years he treated her, and that he was at times inappropriate with her. Wortman did not comment at the time the lawsuit was filed. READ MORE: Neighbors of Ukrainian dwarf claim she admitted trying to kill her adoptive parents Beth Karas said the process used to legally change the Ukrainian dwarf's age in 2012 was far from definitive A legal expert has claimed the complex case of Natalia Grace Barnett's real age should be revisited A legal expert has sensationally called for the complex case of Natalia Grace Barnett's true age to be revisited amid a slew of unanswered questions. Beth Karas, an attorney and former prosecutor, explained in the new Investigation Discovery (ID) 'The Curious Case of Natalia Grace' that the issue at the heart of the Ukrainian dwarf's saga is far from set in stone. 'Everything in this case boils down to Natalia's age,' she said. 'Could she really have been born in 2003?' Natalia, a Ukranian dwarf, was thrust into the spotlight more than a decade ago when her adoptive parents started to suspect she may have been a 'sociopath' adult masquerading as a child instead of a six-year-old. In October 2022, Natalia's adopted father Michael Barnett was acquitted of child neglect charges after leaving her alone in her own apartment for three years. Six months later, his ex-wife Kristine was cleared of the same charges. Natalia Grace Barnett was quickly accused by her adopted parents of secretly being an adult in disguise after she was adopted in 2011 The Barnetts were charged with neglecting their child after ditching Natalia in the early 2010s and moving to Canada after they petitioned a court to move her birth year back 14 years, which was granted. In October 2022 and March 2023, their charges were dropped But at the center of both cases was a court ruling from 2012, when the couple had Natalia legally re-aged from eight to 22, which Karas said could have been orchestrated by the parents if they planned to abandon her. After the couple was granted their petition, they decided to move her into an apartment in Lafayette - three counties away from where they lived - while they moved to Canada. Later in court, Natalia would testify that sustained herself mostly on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, Ramen Noodles and an occasional pizza. She said she had limited use of her hands and arms, and struggled to open canned food. But a year after the move, Natalia was forced out of the apartment due to complaints about her disturbing behavior. Neighbors recounted seeing her struggling to take care of herself and recount in the documentary how they saw her wearing dirty clothing, scuffed shoes and stinking of body odor. 'Getting her re-aged as an adult could have been a way for Michael and Kristine to protect themselves from child neglect charges,' she said. The legal expert added that the process used to legally change the orphan's age was thoughtless at best, and shouldn't be considered as definitive as the courts deem it to be. She said: 'The judge had a petition prepared by an attorney that would lay out the arguments for why this person is not the age they believe she is she is actually an adult,' she said in the documentary. 'Nobody knows quite what age, but she has not grown in four years, so the judge came up with his own little formula: Well, you stop growing at 18 if she hasnt grown in four years then shes at least 18 when she entered their lives. And Im gonna add four years. 'He said, Okay, I find you 22'.' Legal expert Beth Karas, an attorney and former prosecutor, has sensationally called for the complex case of Natalia Grace Barnett's true age to be revisited amid a slew of unanswered questions Michael Barnett (pictured) claims his suspicions over Natalia's age were raised soon after he adopted her The family claimed Natalia (pictured) was 'told her new birthdate at the orphanage in Ukraine' and 'threatened to stab' their children The difficulty in accurately gauging Natalia's age was also highlighted by her adopted father Michael, who said he too was left uncertain after the hearing. 'At the time that she was re-aged, I knew she was an adult. Did I know it was 18, 22, 35, 150? No,' he said. The Barnetts claimed that after taking Natalia on a trip to Disney World, Kristine discovered she had 'full pubic hair' while giving her a bath. They also claimed that she hid having her period. The documentary also included a disturbing re-enactment of the moment Michael was confronted by law enforcement when he first faced the neglect charges. In the clip, Michael is seen in a tense back-and-forth with the police officer who arrested him, initially asking the dad: 'What if I were to tell you that Natalia has never had a period? What if I told you that Natalia only started developing breasts a year ago?' Michael said he would be 'stunned' by the revelations, which is met with the officer's insistence that he may have gullibly believed 'a certain story' that may not be true. 'The truth is that Natalia really isn't that old,' the officer concludes. 'I think in your heart, you know that it was wrong.' The building in Lafayette, Indiana, where Kristine and Michael Barnett rented an apartment for Natalia to live in after they left for Canada Natalia pictured being home schooled in December 2010. Kristine Barnett claims Natalia tried pushing her onto an electric fence, poured bleach into her coffee and threatened to stab the Barnetts in their sleep The saga of Barnett's adoption captured headlines in recent years, with the bizarre details over her dubious age sparking debate nationwide. In April 2010, when Michael and Kristine Barnett decided to adopt an orphan from a foreign country. When their initial adoption of a child from Haiti fell through, they instead adopted Natalia Grace, who they say they believed to be a six-year-old Ukrainian who suffers from dwarfism. However, their dream adoption quickly became a nightmare when they came to suspect she may not be who she claimed. Believing they may have inadvertently adopted a menacing 'sociopath' adult who conned her way into their family, the couple allege that Natalia turned their life into a living hell. 'She tried to poison and kill my wife,' Michael claimed. '(And) one night, I opened my eyes and Natalia is standing at the foot of the bed with a knife in her hand.' In never-before-seen footage, the documentary shows Natalia's suspect behavior inside her adoptive home, including sitting at a table reading the bible. When asked why she chose to read it, she responds: 'To get rid of these evil thoughts.' 'She would do as much as possible to cause hurt or harm or mental distress to the entire family,' Michael said. Kristina, who is accused of abusing Natalia in the bombshell documentary, told DailyMail.com in 2019 that her family were terrorized by the Ukrainian in the months after they adopted her. Kristine Barnett (pictured) told DailyMail.com that her family were left unable to sleep by Natalia's alleged threats to kill them She alleged that Natalia threatened to stab the family in their sleep, pushed her towards an electric fence, and poured bleach in her coffee. She would make statements and draw pictures saying she wanted to kill family members, roll them up in a blanket and put them in the backyard, she told DailyMailTV. She was standing over people in the middle of the night. You couldn't go to sleep. We had to hide all the sharp objects. I saw her putting chemicals, bleach, Windex something like that, in my coffee and I asked her, 'What are you doing?' She said, 'I am trying to poison you''. Later in court, Natalia would testify that sustained herself mostly on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, Ramen Noodles and an occasional pizza. She said she had limited use of her hands and arms, and struggled to open canned food. But a year after the move, Natalia was forced out of the apartment due to complaints about her disturbing behavior. Neighbors recounted seeing her struggling to take care of herself and recount in the documentary how they saw her wearing dirty clothing, scuffed shoes and stinking of body odor. Neighbors who lived next door to Natalia's Lafayette apartment recounted how she was unmoved by her disturbing behavior and told them that she tried to kill her adoptive parents. '(She said) I stood over them with a knife, so they took all the knives away,' recalled Toby Miles' wife Melanie Miles. 'And then I tried to poison them, so I had to live in the garage for a while.' Sue McCallum, another Lafayette resident, said the Natalia had a 'so what' attitude when discussing her alleged attempts on her adopted family's lives. 'Oh gee, I pulled a knife on my parents, big deal,' she said. 'That's the attitude you got from her.' The former neighbors all shared similar accounts of Natalia's bizarre perspective on her alleged disturbing behavior, which left them scratching their heads over how to process the unsettling revelations. Natalia later moved into the home of a family in Lafayette. In a 2019 episode of Dr. Phil, she denied being an adult, breaking down as she insisted she never conned the devastated Indiana family. She appeared alongside her new parents, Cynthia and Anton Mans, who defended her and stated she was a 'genuine loving girl' and not an 'adult sociopath masquerading as a child.' The protester who glued themselves to the stage at the Oxford Union during a speech by Professor Kathleen Stock is a former Oxford University student and an ardent republican who wants to abolish the Royal Family and once jumped security to pose on Charles II's bed. Riz Possnett, 19, staged an outlandish protest during a talk by the gender-critical academic last night by gluing themselves to the front of the stage while wearing a T-shirt bearing the slogan: No more dead trans kids'. It comes just weeks after Possnett - who uses the pronouns they/them - appeared on Piers Morgan: Uncensored on TalkTV, arguing for the abolition of the monarchy, who they called 'parasites'. Possnett was also pictured kissing their partner, eating snacks and reading a copy of Prince Harry's memoir Spare on the bed made for Charles II at Windsor Castle after jumping the security rope earlier this year. The activist, who walked free after last night's stunt, clashed with Lady Victoria Hervey and Dan Wootton on GB News during a debate in which they said 'I don't care' what happens to King Charles following threats of disruption to the Coronation. Despite claiming on their social media that they were 'working class broccoli', Possnett's background is anything but working class. They enjoyed a privileged upbringing with wealthy businessman father Robert, who is a climate zealot. Student activist Riz Possnett wore a T-shirt emblazoned with No more dead trans kids' and glued themselves to the floor in front of Prof Stock Possnett, who was pictured after being forcibly removed from the talk, said: 'Trans lives and rights should not be up for "debate", but the Union did not even provide that' Possnett (pictured, right, alongside Greta Thunberg, left) has jetted around Europe protesting against climate change Possnett was pictured kissing their partner, eating snacks and reading a copy of Prince Harry's memoir Spare on the King's bed at Windsor Castle Before studying at Oxford, Possnett attended Hockerill Anglo-European College in Hertfordshire, which charges up to 14,682 a year for high-school boarders. They were also a pupil at the 41,000-a-year Li Po Chun United World College in Hong Kong - which has schooled politicians, artists and musicians from around the world. Extinction Rebellion activist Mr Possnett, 61, of Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, posted a tweet in praise of his child's disruption yesterday. He is no stranger to arrest for disruptive protests, having spraying red paint on the Guildhall in London before bragging that he was 'looking forward to my day in court'. His child has jetted around Europe protesting against climate change alongside Swedish activist Greta Thunberg - and helped bring London to a standstill with anti-Brexit marches and demonstrations against former US president Donald Trump. Despite the regular carbon-emitting flights this involved, at 15 Possnett helped to found the UK Student Climate Network activist group and organised YouthStrike4Climate, which encouraged thousands of students across the UK to walk out of class. Around the same time, pictures on social media accounts show Possnett enjoying sunny holidays in apparently glamorous and exotic overseas destinations. They would spend summers at their parents 850,000, six-bed detached cottage with a swimming pool in an upmarket Suffolk village. It comes after Possnett frequently clashed with Morgan during a TalkTV debate ahead of the Coronation earlier this month, describing the monarchy as a 'juxtaposition between modern Britain and what that looks like, and this archaic, weird set of institutions that just doesnt sit right with that'. After a fiery discussion, Morgan insisted it had been a 'good exchange' although his guest disagreed vehemently. Morgan told Possnett: Go back to Oxford and count yourself lucky with your privileged education. Possnett and their partner Imogen jumped a security rope to pose on Charles II's bed in March earlier this year Possnett was removed from the venue by police after gluing themselves to the front of the stage Possnett bit back: Youre insane. Shut up.' Youre one of the most privileged women in the country. Right up there with Prince William,' Morgan told Possnett as the interview concluded. The following week, Possnett appeared alongside Lady Hervey to debate the arrests of anti-monarchy protesters at the King's Coronation. They claimed attempts from the socialite to 'belittle' them were 'so extremely deluded'. They also referred to her as 'completely dim' in a tweet following the show on May 10. In March, Possnett was pictured posing on the bed constructed for Charles II in 1670. Following the stunt, their partner Imogen told The Mirror it was 'playful' and 'a bit silly', adding: 'People of our generation are done with bowing and curtseying to this family.' On their Twitter, Possnett brands themselves as an 'activist, student, professional light-speed gobs***e. trans and proud'. Riz Possnett and Piers Morgan clashed when they debated the Not My King protests During yesterday's protest at the Oxford Union, the trans rights campaigner refused to budge as officers were forced to use tools to prise them off the floor. Eventually Possnett was removed by police, who were applauded by those in the assembly. When reporters caught up with Possnett outside the 200-year-old venue, the student simply said they had been 'de-arrested' before refusing to answer more questions. Possnett later took to Twitter to explain the reason for protesting at the event, stating: 'I did not attempt to prevent Kathleen Stock from speaking. Whilst I believe her speech is dangerous and hateful, she is entitled to exercise her right to free speech. 'I chose to exercise my own Article 10 and 11 rights to peacefully protest this speech. 'Trans lives and rights should not be up for "debate", but the Union did not even provide that. 'My goal was to show the other side, to ensure everyone who listened to Stocks talk also considered the dangerous consequences of those views for trans people.' Prof Stock braved hundreds of screaming protesters to deliver her address at the debating club. Her talk had been the focus of one of the biggest free-speech rows to engulf the institution, with activists labelling her transphobic and trans-exclusionary in an attempt to have the event cancelled. But despite their best efforts, Prof Stock defended the rights of those who attempted to silence her. She told the audience: I didnt mind that protest. It wasnt traumatic for me. But generally what I find more worrying is when institutions have listened to the protesters... and then basically become propaganda machines for a particular point of view. Around 200 trans rights protesters gathered at Bonn Square in Oxford, far fewer than the 500 organisers had hoped to attract. Riz Possnett appeared on TalkTV to debate about whether the monarchy should be abolished Professor Kathleen Stock (right) gave a talk at the Oxford Union, which was marred by protests. Activist Riz Possnett (left) appear to be glued in front of the stage Professor Stock vowed to give her talk last night, despite promises of a large protest from trans rights activists They held banners that read 'Resisting by existing' and chanted 'Trans rights equal human rights', before marching on the debating society. About five minutes into the event, two trans activists emerged from the audience waving rainbow flags and threw leaflets before they were drowned out by shouting from the crowd - who clapped and cheered as security pulled the pair out. Police attended the event and began trying to remove Possnett, who was eventually freed from the floor. The officers were applauded as they entered the chamber. Several audience members then began shouting for the professor to 'carry on' in spite of the protester. One supportive student yelled, free speech is a human right, and was met with a large round of applause. Speaking to attendees, Professor Stock said that those who think trans people are not violent should speak to a criminologist. Arguing that trans women who were born male should not be able to access female-only spaces, she said: In changing rooms where women are, we are supposed to do stuff [to protect them] and when we took males out as we did before, it was on the assumption that some males are predators. We are not doing that as a society. We are supposed to care about women. 'It is a risk of a man saying he is a woman and going into a space and taking advantage of that. The 14-year-old armed teenager who was shot dead by a South Carolina gas station owner died after a single bullet pierced his lower back then traveled up into his heart, the coroner has revealed. Cyrus Carmack-Belton, 14, died on Sunday night in Columbia, South Carolina, after being wrongly accused of shoplifting by Rick Chow, the 58-year-old owner of a Shell gas station which has been known to have problems with violence and shoplifters. Chow and his adult son chased Carmack-Belton out of the store and down the adjacent street after suspecting him of stealing bottled water. When they realized the teenager was carrying a handgun, Chow fired his own pistol. He shot him once in the back, and the teenager was pronounced dead. Police are yet to explain why the teenager had a gun or where he obtained it, but they say he never wielded it at the store owner or his son. As a result, Chow has been charged with murder and is being held in custody until bail is set. Cyrus Carmack-Belton, 14, died on Sunday night in Columbia, South Carolina, after being wrongly accused of shoplifting by Rick Chow, the 58-year-old owner of a Shell gas station which has been known to have problems with violence and shoplifters Rick Chow, 58, is the owner of the gas station in Columbia, South Carolina. On Sunday night at 8pm, Cyrus Carmack-Belton, a 14-year-old teenager, entered his store. Chow and his son suspected Cyrus of stealing bottled water from the store Chow is being held in custody pending bail. He is shown in court yesterday Angry protesters descended on the gas station on Monday share their rage, looting and smashing windows. In an interview with DailyMail.com, Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford said Cyrus' grieving family, who have not yet spoken publicly about his death, were in shock. 'If you just lost your 14-year-old son, you'd be as upset as you'd expect them to be right now,' she said. Rutherford posted an emotional Instagram video on Monday as Chow was charged, choking back tears as she described how Cyrus could have been 'any of our sons'. She defended taking such a strong position on the case amid online criticism. 'I am not a robot. I may deal with death every day, but most people would have a reaction to a child dying. 'It's not about being impartial... there is no wrong or right way to do that.' Police are yet to reveal why Cyrus, a 14-year-old, was carrying a weapon. At 8pm on Sunday night, Cyrus entered the store to buy drinks. He was wrongly suspected of shoplifting and chased. He was carrying a handgun, but did not point it at the store owner, according to the police. Chow shot him once in the lower right back. The bullet traveled and pierced his heart, according to the coroner Protesters descended on the store to spray it with graffiti and leave trash in the parking lot On Monday, protesters ransacked Chow's gas station in protest over Cyrus' death The gas station was trashed on Monday night as the community learned of Cyrus' death Protesters trashed inside the store, knocking over displays and pouring waters on the ground Protests: Local residents descended on the gas station to protest and call for murder charges The Shell gas station in Columbia where the incident took place on Sunday night. It has now been vandalized They are still investigating how he obtained it, but say they are confident he did not open fire or point it at either Chow or his son. Police say surveillance footage from inside the gas station - which is yet to be released - also proves that he did not shoplift. Chow's gas station is a hotbed of shoplifting and violent run-ins with belligerent customers. The Richland County Sheriff's Office is yet to confirm exactly how many times he called police for help over the last five years, but they say the volume of incidents is 'very large'. Before the incident on Sunday, his record only included traffic violations. In an interview with DailyMail.com, Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford said Cyrus' grieving family, who have not yet spoken publicly about his death, were in shock. She defended becoming emotional about the case amid online scrutiny, saying: 'I am not a robot' Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott and Coroner Naida Rutherford said Chow deserved to be charged with murder - even though the teenager was armed - because Cyrus hadn't pointed his gun at the father or son In response to Cyrus' death, protesters on Monday descended on the store to smash windows, spray graffiti and loot the inventory. Sheriff Leon Lott yesterday condemned the looting, and lamented the fact he now had to divert deputies to protect the store when they should be in the community. 'This case is about a 14-year-old-boy who was shot and killed. It's also about the person that was arrested who is being held accountable for it. 'That's what our job is. Our job is not now to guard this store. And that's what we have to do,' he said at a press conference. Chow appeared in court yesterday for a brief hearing where it was determined that he will remain in custody until bond is set. Tariffs on 99 per cent of exports to be removed Brits under the age of 35 will be allowed to live and work in Australia for three years without having to do farm work as a free trade agreement with the UK comes into force. The free trade agreement was drawn up after Britain - Australia's second biggest services trading partner - left the European Union, and will see 99 per cent of Aussie products enter the UK duty free. It also includes sweeping changes visa rules that will make it easier for working holiday makers in both countries. In a rule going back more than a decade, working holiday makers had to complete 88 days of agricultural work if they wanted to stay in Australia for another year - up to a maximum of three in total. But from July next year, Brits will be able to stay in Australia for three years without having to meet these specific work requirements, which often involves months of labouring on rural farms. The age limit for the visa will also be increased to 35. Restrictions are also easing for Australians, who from July this year will be able to apply for United Kingdom working holiday visas up to the age of 35, instead of 30, and stay for three years instead of two. The move will have a huge impact on Australian farmers who are dependent on 10,000 British backpackers a year to pick fruit and vegetables - but a new agriculture visa, allowing British farmers to work in Australia, will help offset the impact. Farmers fear that their labour shortages will worsen with the loss of UK backpackers. 'We got a preview of this during Covid when these workers left the country. We saw a worsening labour crisis force farmers to scale back production and watch their crops rot in the paddock,' National Farmers' Federation president, Fiona Simson told media. 'The dedicated agriculture visa was meant to be the solution to this problem. Now we just have a problem with no solution.' Working holiday visa holders will be able to stay in the UK or Australia for a longer period of time under the free trade deal that comes into effect today (stock image) The agreement following Brexit will also strip taxes on billions of dollars worth of goods. Australian producers of wine, beef, sheep meat, grains, rice, sugar, and dairy products will benefit from duty-free quotas or tariff elimination. Manufactured products such as auto parts and electrical equipment, as well as cosmetic products will also receive a boost through the immediate elimination of UK tariffs. British products including cars, whisky, confectionery, biscuits and cosmetics coming into Australia are expected to be cheaper. Trade Minister Don Farrell said it was a major step in diversifying trade. 'It will help grow our domestic industries and homegrown manufacturing capabilities, delivering benefits to Australian businesses, and creating new well-paying jobs.' 'This new trade agreement will open new export opportunities, promote greater investment into Australia and help diversify our trade relationship.' The historic deal between Australia and the United Kingdom is aimed at easing trade and visa arrangements (pictured, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak greet one another at Downing Street) Brits moving Down Under will no longer need to complete farm work and local employers face less restrictions in hiring them (stock image) Trade Minister Don Farrell (pictured) championed the deal as a 'gold-standard trade agreement' Mr Farrell added: 'When trade flows freely, the benefits are felt across virtually all aspects of everyday life.' 'More trade means more well-paying jobs, more national income, more opportunities for business and a lower cost of living.' The UK is Australia's 12th largest trading partner. Two-way goods trade was worth $10 billion in 2022, and two-way services trade was worth $4.4 billion in 2021-2022. The UK is also Australia's second-largest source of foreign direct investment, amounting to over $1 trillion in 2022. It deal with the UK came after China slapped tariffs on Australian exports during the pandemic after the Morrison government backed an inquiry into the origins of Covid-19. 'This provides more opportunities, and greater resilience for Australia's exporters, all around the world,' former Prime Minister Scott Morrison said at the time the landmark deal was signed back in June 2021. The grief-stricken father of a young woman found dead in her home almost a day after she made a frantic triple-0 call has demanded answers from police as he recalled how he and his wife learned about the tragic news on social news. Tatiana 'Tania' Dokhotaru, 34, was found dead inside her Liverpool unit, in Sydney's south-west, about 8pm on Saturday - almost 24 hours after she called triple-0 begging for help alleging her partner was 'bashing' her. Her estranged partner Danny Zayat, 28, was arrested at the scene on Saturday and has been charged with a litany of offences - including choking and breaching an AVO - which allegedly occurred in the lead up to her death. No charges have been laid in relation to Ms Dokhotaru's death. Tatiana's devastated parents Olga Dokhotaru and Dennis Thievin believe she may still be alive today if officers went to her apartment the night she rang for help and have labelled their response as disappointing. Based in Canada, the couple found out about their daughter's death 'not nicely' through social media. Tatiana Dokhotaru (pictured) was found dead in her Liverpool unit almost 24 hours after she made a frantic call to triple-0 'Pretty horrific,' Mr Thievin told Sunrise on Wednesday. 'My wife last spoke to her on last Wednesday of last week and since we typically hear from her every day or every other day, we knew that something was wrong because we hadn't heard and we could not reach her. 'On what would be Monday morning for me, I went to the site for the police station in Sydney and I read the news that there was a 34-year-old woman who had been found and it unfolded from there, that's how we found out.' It took police four hours to respond to the triple-0 call. Initially there were unable to find Ms Dokhotaru's unit because the call did not include enough information such as the apartment number. NSW Police has launched a critical investigation into the police response, which was slammed by Mr Thievin. 'If this had happened in Canada, which where we live, I suppose I would venture to say that it is an arrogant behaviour,' he fumed. 'Since when does somebody make a frantic call close to midnight and you more or less ignore it? 'I realise they went to the premises but they must have been aware that there was somebody in those premises, they should have been banging on doors if necessary, because surely they understood that something bad could be going on. 'I am very disappointed in all of that. Tania could be alive today had they done what they should have done.' Tatiana's dad Dennis Thievin (pictured) is disappointed in the lack of urgency of the police response A critical incident investigation has been launched into the police response time. Pictured are tributes outside the Liverpool apartment complex Mr Thievin added his wife was having a real hard time dealing with their daughter's death. They had previously begged her to go to the police over Zayat's alleged behaviour. Mr Thievin claimed on Wednesday that his daughter recently sent him a video that allegedly showed bruises on her neck. 'We just never in a million years thought it would unfold like this,' he said. 'It's not supposed to be like that and unless it ever happened to you before, you don't expect it to happen to your family but it happened. It is a horrible, horrible thing.' Also found in the unit was the couple's young son, on the eve of his fourth birthday. Tania's parents Olga Dokhotaru and Denis Thievin (pictured with Tania, left) believe she may still be alive if they had got to her apartment quicker Danny Zayat has been charged with a raft of domestic violence offences after his former partner Tatiana 'Tania' Dokhotaru, 34, was found dead on Saturday. The pair are pictured together in 2021 Forensic investigators on Tuesday were seen scouring the rooftops of neighbouring buildings to the Pinnacle apartment complex as the search for evidence continues. Friends told Daily Mail Australia Ms Dokhotaru, a Russian national who migrated Down Under around 10 years ago, was a 'beautiful and hardworking' mum. They said she last week returned from a seven-day holiday in Thailand with her son and had just launched an online business renting out designer clothing for some side cash while she cared for her little boy full-time. 'He was a mummy's boy. She did everything for him. They were always together,' one friend said. A neighbour also reported hearing her child making a 'distressed' scream about 2pm on Saturday - around six hours before her body was discovered. Ms Dokhotaru's death has sparked public outrage, with many people flocking online to condemn the handling of her distressed call for help. NSW Premier Chris Minns has called for a thorough investigation into the police response to Ms Dokhotaru's triple-0 call. He called for calm to allow the police to conduct their investigation into the 'traumatic incident'. Zayat is next due to appear before Liverpool Local Court on Friday. Ms Dokhotaru had just launched a designer brand rental business in the days before her death Do you think you may know why there are a limited number of spots? The company said there is a very good reason for why there are few spaces Trader Joe's officials say conspiracy theories about their parking lots are false Trader Joe's says they have heard conspiracy theories regarding their small parking lots and that they have a very good reason for their stores having so few spots. In a recent interview on the Inside Trader Joe's podcast, VP of Marketing Tara Miller said fans' farfetched ideas - and memes - are entertaining but incorrect. 'People out there in the world really seem to think not all people, but a number of people that we are purposefully making horrible parking lots,' she continued. 'We don't open stores with the world's most ridiculous parking lot on purpose,' responded Matt Sloan, the 'marketing product guy' at Trader Joe's. So, do you think you know why their lots are smaller and more cramped than normal grocery store parking lots? Keep reading to find out if you are right. Trader Joe's says they have heard conspiracy theories regarding their small parking lots and that they have a very good reason for their stores having so few spots Trader Joe's parking lots have long been discussed and joked about on the internet for their size as well as the aggressiveness of drivers while in the lot According to Miller, the number of parking spaces is determined by how large each Trader Joe's location is, and most locations tend to be fairly small. 'If you spend any time on social media, looking at things about Trader Joe's, you will find there are lots of conspiratorial theories about our parking lots,' Miller said. Some fans have argued that the grocery-chain chooses lots with smaller spaces to cut costs when developing new locations. Others have speculated that Trader Joe's is hoping to inspire more people to walk or bike to their stores. Really, however, the issue mostly is due to city planning. According to a KTLA report, most cities have minimums for parking spaces in their zoning codes when it comes to grocery stores. Most big chains operate out of massive facilities and warehouses, which call for bigger parking lots to meet the need. Trader Joe's locations are relatively small in comparison to Walmart or Target. 'A 12,000-square-foot store will get far fewer parking spaces than a 70,000-square-foot store,' Miller said. Miller and Sloan also said that the parking lots always feel smaller and more cramped because of how busy stores typically are. 'Now let's say that 12,000-square-foot store has 500 people visiting, and the giant store has 100 people visiting the parking lots are going to feel very different,' Sloan said. They also added that Trader Joe's has been aware of complaints and hilarious jokes for years and that newer stores now tend to have larger lots. According to VP of Marketing Tara Miller, the number of parking spaces is determined by how large each Trader Joe's location is, and most locations tend to be fairly small The original store in Pasadena, California - considered one of the worst parking lots for Trader Joe's in the country - still gets complaints daily. Sloan said that the location 'still very much has a challenging parking lot.' It's unlikely the chain plans to make any stores bigger either. 'The argument could be made, "Hey, Trader Joe's, just make your stores bigger,"' Miller said during the appearance on the podcast. 'But that kind of changes who we are,' she continued. 'We have small stores, so they come with small parking lots. If we had bigger stores, sure we'd have bigger parking lots, but we'd feel like a different store,' the VP said. Trader Joe's parking lots have long been discussed and joked about on the internet for their size as well as the aggressiveness of drivers while in the lot. Over the years, thousands of people have made pointed comments about the limited real estate for vehicles while shopping. Miller and Sloan also said that the parking lots always feel smaller and more cramped because of how busy stores typically are Over the years, thousands of people have made pointed comments about the limited real estate for vehicles while shopping 'God, if you can hear me, please help me find parking at trader joes,' actress Daniella Monet wrote in 2013 'When i have some free time I like to hop in my car and just cruise the trader joes parking lot. U know add to the confusion and mania' '2015 is going to be my year! (That I finally find a parking spot at Trader Joes.)' wrote comedian Dan Levy in a tweet 'My ancestors hunted in the wilderness so I could get stressed out in a Trader Joes parking lot,' one person joked earlier this year. 'God, if you can hear me, please help me find parking at trader joes,' actress Daniella Monet wrote in 2013. 'When i have some free time I like to hop in my car and just cruise the trader joes parking lot. U know add to the confusion and mania '2015 is going to be my year! (That I finally find a parking spot at Trader Joes.)' wrote comedian Dan Levy in a tweet. 'Someday, people of all races & religions will live together in peace, and Trader Joes will build a store with sufficient parking,' another user joked in 2014. Hour-long interview will shed light on his side of the story Australians are divided over Bruce Lehrmann's upcoming television interview - with some commentators arguing that featuring an alleged rapist is unethical, while others say he deserves to tell his story. Mr Lehrmann is set to break his two-year silence during an extended episode of 7News Spotlight at 7pm on Sunday. The feature, which network producers say he was not paid for, promises to shed light on his life after Brittany Higgins accused him of raping her in Parliament House in March 2019. So far, Mr Lehrmann's side of the story has only been told via his trial in the ACT Supreme Court last year, when his interview with police was played before a jury. The former staffer strongly denied having any sexual contact with Ms Higgins during that interview, but he has never divulged his version of events to the media. Channel Seven announced the interview on Tuesday night, which prompted a flurry of tweets by Australians with differing opinions. Bruce Lehrmann (pictured) will break his two-year silence in a television interview on Sunday Melbourne-based activist and former political staffer Sally Rugg wrote: 'Bruce Lehrmann is free to speak publicly and media companies are free to engage him to do so.' 'I wonder how many companies who advertise on prime time will be happy to have their brands associated with this interview? Will we see companies pull their ads?' Performer Christie Whelan Browne, who accused actor Craig McLachlan of sexual assault in 2014, responded: 'Seen this sh*t before. It's hideous.' McLachlan was acquitted by a magistrate of all charges in December 2020. Others claimed - incorrectly - that Mr Lehrmann refused to tell his side of the story in court. Mr Lehrmann's police interview was played before the court, during which he told his version of events. He was not called as a witness during the trial. However, some jumped to Mr Lehrmann's defence - pointing out that he was never found guilty of a crime. Australians were divided over Bruce Lehrmann's upcoming interview on Channel 7 (tweets pictured) 'A court is there to work out beyond reasonable doubt if a crime has been committed,' another user wrote. 'Bruce Lehrmann or anyone accused of any crime does not have to give his side, as it's up to prosecutors to prove guilt.' A fourth user said: 'I don't know if Bruce Lehrmann is guilty or not, but he deserves the presumption of innocence until he is.' Meanwhile, someone else offered unsolicited advice for the furious masses: 'If you don't agree with Bruce Lehrmann interview with Channel Seven, here's a novel idea - don't watch it.' According to a Channel Seven media release, Mr Lehrmann will 'answer questions about what happened when he entered a ministerial suite with Brittany Higgins in the early hours of Saturday 23 March 2019.' 'Nothing is off limits,' it said. It is understood Mr Lehrman will broach a host of topics, including how he felt when Ms Higgins first aired her allegations against him in an interview with Lisa Wilkinson on The Project in February 2021. Brittany Higgins (left) first made her allegations against Mr Lehrmann during a TV interview with Lisa Wilkinson (right) He is also expected to speak about the moment former Prime Minister Scott Morrison apologised to Ms Higgins over the allegations. Despite speculation that Mr Lehrmann was paid to do the interview, a network spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia that was not the case. '7NEWS Spotlight made no payment to Bruce Lehrmann for the interview, however the program assisted with accommodation as part of the filming of the report,' they said. Mr Lehrmann was tried in a 12-day hearing in October last year, but a mistrial was declared after a jury member brought banned reading material into the court. Shane Drumgold, the ACT Director of Public Prosecutions, dropped the case altogether in December due to concerns over Ms Higgins' mental health. A renter has been left stunned after receiving an 'insulting' email from a real estate agent while looking for a property. Gavin had been looking for a place to live in Sydney when he received the unexpected email. The 30-year-old has been living in the city for some time and is no stranger to the difficulties of trying to find a property. Slavko Skender (pictured) seemed to intend to forward an email to his office, but instead replied to sender, who he called a 'clown' Gavin revealed nothing could have prepared him for the rude email he received while he was searching for a place in the inner-west suburbs in 2020. He said he received the message from Allan Dale Real Estate agent Slavko Skender and believed it had accidentally been sent to him instead of one of his colleagues. 'Can you please register this clown,' the email read. Gavin said he was 'incensed' and contacted the real estate agency looking for an explanation and apology. 'I immediately called the ADRE front office, registered my complaint, which ultimately was never followed up to its conclusion,' he told news.com.au. Gavin also emailed ADRE to say he expected to get a call from a manager about what had happened. A reply from a receptionist said they were 'so sorry' about the email sent to him. 'Please don't take this personal,' the email read. 'My manager will be in touch.' A manager did call him, but Gavin said his complaint was never followed up and that he was waiting for a formal apology. Daily Mail Australia contacted Mr Skender and received an automatic response saying he was on long service leave. His profile page at Allan Dale Real Estate was still online early on Wednesday morning, but was later removed. The agency said Mr Skender has not worked for them for some time. A shocked renter has said it's difficult enough to find a place to rent without being insulted (pictured) by the real estate agent who is supposed to be helping you Gavin has a long list of complaints from his experiences in the rental market over the years. Mould and rental prices going up far beyond market rates are among his biggest gripes. 'Agents and landlords have consistently made scrupulous claims against my bonds and there is a serious lack of care once tenants are in a property,' Gavin said. He received an outpouring of support when he posted the screenshot of the email from Mr Skender to a Facebook group for tenants. 'Calling someone a clown is very offensive and I absolutely would be taking it personally,' one commenter said. 'Unreal, heaven forbid that he's ever a tenant,' another wrote. Gavin and his experience is the latest illustration of the tough difficulties facing renters across the country. The rental crisis is forecast to become much worse with the number of new properties being built unexpectedly crashing in every state and territory. A decrease in the number of new properties being built would worsen the housing shortage in the country and see rent prices increase as more tenants become desperate to find a place to live. Declines in housing approvals are bad news for renters as low vacancy rates, which can make it feel impossible to find a new home, are likely to worsen The first quarter of 2023 was the weakest for building approvals since 2012 across the nation, a result many experts didn't see coming. In NSW total building approvals for March plummeted by 34.1 per cent compared to a year ago, while in Victoria they tumbled 26.6 per cent. In the Australian Capital Territory the fall was a huge 35.3 per cent, while they dropped 19.1 per cent in the Northern Territory. Approvals also declined in Western Australia by 14.9 per cent, Tasmania by 10.8 per cent and South Australia by 5.7 per cent. Queensland was the only Australian state or territory to see growth in building approvals. Nationally, building approvals for units are lower than at any time since 2012. The number of detached house approvals was 15 per cent lower than the same time in 2022. Sunrise host Natalie Barr has called out Anthony Albanese after he complained about the 'horrific' abuse he cops online, saying it weighs on him and adds undue pressure. Mr Albanese's frank admission came after Western Australia Premier Mark McGowan unexpectedly stood down from the state's top job on Monday, citing the job's 'relentless pressure'. In wishing Mr McGowan well, Mr Albanese said the pressures brought about by online 'trolls and bots' added more tension to politicians' roles. 'I have a look at what people say occasionally usually I try not to look, but it is quite horrific,' he told ABC Adelaide. 'I know during the pandemic there was a need for people in leadership positions to have security because of issues of personal safety but the things that people say online sometimes are quite astonishing.' 'It's quite astonishing what people are prepared to say anonymously. Trolls and bots add a lot of pressure.' In a segment on Sunrise, Barr suggested Mr Albanese turn of Twitter notifications to avoid the criticism, when speaking with Home Affairs Minister Claire O'Neil and Liberal Senator Jane Hume. On Wednesday morning, Barr said: 'We know this is a big problem. But a lot of people will be sitting at home saying why does he look, can he just take off a lot of the notifications on Twitter like a lot of people do though.' O'Neil responded saying: 'I'm conscious that people hate to hear politicians complain so I'm in two minds about some of this. 'The thing I want people to understand is how much this problem has changed in the time I've been in Parliament. She said politicians now receive a 'torrent' of violent abuse. 'I guess it's easy to say not to look at it but the thing I also talk to people about is the fact that this does also reflect what is going on in the real world. 'We are lucky to live in a country where politicians live pretty normal lives. I go the supermarket and I drop my kids off at school and I often tell my constituents where I'm going to be so they can come and talk to me, and I don't want that to change.' 'But what we do see is relatively increasing incidences of real-life harassment and violence and I think that's really worrying. Barr asked Senator Hume if arresting trolls for their abuse is the solution to the never ending problem. 'I hope we don't get to that stage,' Hume responded. Barr spoke with Home Affairs Minister Claire O'Neil (left) and Liberal Senator Jane Hume (right) about online bullying. The Sunrise host exchanged heated words with Ms Hume after the senator claimed it is difficult to track down cyber bullies 'Why not? If they abusing people why are we not arresting them?,' Barr said. 'You just have to log in to Twitter to see most of these accounts are in fact anonymous,' Ms Hume said. 'The big fear for me is not necessarily what happens to us but more what our families see. The phrase that I hate to hear most is 'mum, you are trending.' My kids are late teens, early 20s and they see what is said about me online. 'I can't make them switch it off and I think that's really disturbing... it's getting more violent and more abusive and very personal too. 'I just hope we don't get to a stage were something terrible happens that makes us all stand back and think, why didn't we do something earlier.' Barr claimed online bullying is a hot topic at every women's lunch and panel she attends, with many believing the solution to the abuse is to start punishing the perpetrators. 'So let's start arresting them, they are not all anonymous. I got some on my phone and I can see who they are,' Barr said. 'They are family people and they seem very normal, that got normal jobs. If I can find them, maybe the police can too.' 'I think we have to ask real questions about why anonymity is being protected in this way and a lot of these people are total cowards who just want to say their violent comments are not be held accountable,' Ms O'Neil said. Anthony Albanese complained about the 'horrific' abuse he cops online, saying it weighs on him and adds undue pressure 'We do get real violent threats on ourselves, our kids and that side of things is really scary. This reflects a decline in civility across the country. The toll of online abuse has been spotlighted in the last month after ABC presenter Stan Grant stood aside from his responsibilities because of the constant vilification and racism he'd experienced. Last week, in wishing Grant well, Mr Albanese said there was a need to be 'really cognisant' in the lead-up to the Voice to parliament referendum 'about some of the hurtful comments that have been made'. 'We can have respect for different views without engaging in vilification, and that's important,' he said. In this month's budget, the government committed to raising the funding base of the eSafety Commissioner by $132.1m over four years because of a spike in cyberbullying and other forms on online attacks and abuse. Squad member AOC has threatened to leave Twitter over a parody account. The woke New York Congresswoman tweeted on Tuesday that she may abandon her 13.4million followers after Elon Musk promoted a 'sick' account impersonating her. She said she was 'assessing' what to do after the billionaire replied to a tweet from the parody account, 'Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Press Release (parody).' 'FYI there's a fake account on here impersonating me and going viral,' AOC tweeted. 'The Twitter CEO has engaged it, boosting visibility.' She claimed the account was 'releasing false policy statements,' after previously tweeting about her boyfriend's farts and her ideas to tackle climate change. 'I am assessing with my team how to move forward,' Ocasio-Cortez said. 'In the meantime, be careful of what you see,' she warned her followers. Her message came after Musk replied to a tweet from the parody account, which wrote: 'This might be the wine talking but I've got a crush on @ElonMusk.' The mogul replied with a fire emoji. Woke Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez threatened on Tuesday to leave Twitter after Elon Musk replied to an account parodying her She tweeted to her 13.4million followers that she is 'assessing' what to do Her message came after Musk replied to a tweet from the parody account, which wrote: 'This might be the wine talking but I've got a crush on @ElonMusk' The parody account tweeted out similar sentiments about Musk in the past, including one on Tuesday saying '[Elon Musk] my boyfriend is at Target and my DMs are open. You know what to do.' It also wrote that 'Every time my boyfriend farts I make him plant a tree to offset his carbon emissions,' and suggested 'the real reason MAGA extremists are so infuriated with me... I'm young, gorgeous, successful and a millionaire.' On Monday, the account also told its 170,900 followers to 'take a moment on this Memorial Day to remember all the citizens that lost their lives trying to come through our southern border.' Following AOC's announcement on Tuesday, the account posted a series of tweets, including one saying: 'After brainstorming with my staff I'm going to push Congress to make it illegal to joke, laugh or make fun of me. 'Parody should be illegal,' it wrote. 'FYI... I have no problem with parody accounts,' the parody account added later, 'just the ones that make fun of me.' AOC claimed the parody account was 'releasing false policy statements,' after previously tweeting about her boyfriend's farts and her ideas to tackle climate change Ocasio-Cortez's threat of leaving Twitter is just the latest in a string of attacks on Musk since he took over the social media platform last year. When Musk announced in November that those who want to retain their blue verification marks would have to pay $8, AOC mocked the move on the social media platform. 'LMAO at a billionaire earnestly trying to sell people on the idea that "free speech" is actually an $8/mo subscription plan,' she wrote at the time, to which Musk replied: 'Your feedback is appreciated, now pay $8.' Then when the Tesla founder announced last month that Twitter would remove the blue verification marks for legacy accounts that do not pay for Twitter Blue, AOC claimed he was paving the way 'for major potential harm.' Following the congresswoman's announcement on Tuesday, the parody account suggested she was trying to ban parody accounts from making fun of her She also previously claimed Musk had meddled with her account when she could not see notifications from verified accounts. The congresswoman suggested the issue started following a public argument. 'Yo @ElonMusk while I have your attention, why should people pay $8 just for their app to get bricked when they say something you don't like?' she tweeted earlier this year. Musk replied to the tweet joking, 'What can I say? It was a naked abuse of power.' And in December, AOC condemned Musk after he suspended the accounts of half a dozen journalists who reported on him and his takeover of Twitter. 'I get feeling unsafe, but descending into [an] abuse of power and erratically banning journalists only increases the intensity around you,' she wrote. 'As someone who has been subject to real and dangerous plots, I do get it. I didn't have security and have experienced many scary incidents. In fact, many of the right-wing outlets you now elevate published photos of my home, car, etc. 'At a certain point, you gotta disconnect. Maybe try putting down your phone,' she suggested. 'You first, lol,' Musk replied at the time. He has yet to comment publicly on AOC's threat of leaving the platform, which she uses daily. A homeowner who forgot to put out his bins for the garbage collectors received a pleasant surprise when he woke up the next morning. Danny Slater from Bribie Island, just off Brisbane, forgot to put out his bins on Sunday night. He then woke up realising his mistake before later discovering the bins had actually been emptied. Danny Slater from Bribie Island, just off Brisbane, forgot to put out his bins on Sunday night Mr Slater was saved by his diligent bin man who had hopped out of the truck to get the bins himself. The curious homeowner then checked his CCTV footage on Monday morning where he was given a nice surprise. Footage showed the garbage man hop out of his truck during the early morning run and put the bins out himself. Although this truck was only there to collect the yellow bin, the worker wheeled both the yellow and red one out to make sure the next driver didn't miss collection either. Moreton Bay's City Council applauded the workers' efforts, commending the local legend for showing 'true Morton Bay spirit'. After uploading the footage to social media, friends of Mr Slater cheered the bin collector and his small act of decency they said might warrant a reward. Footage shows the truck come to an abrupt stop before the garbage man hops out, wheeling both bins down to the curb before jumping back in and emptying one. 'It was amazing to see it was our bin man. He could have sat in his cab and drove,' Mr Slater wrote. 'Massive respect to him.' Although this truck was only there to collect the yellow bin, the worker wheeled both the yellow and red one out to make sure the next driver didn't miss collection either Social media users were similarly surprised by the effort gone to empty the bin. 'Definitely deserves a six-pack left out next week,' one wrote. 'The Local Council and his employer should give this chap some recognition - thats fantastic above and beyond care there,' another added. The Moreton Bay Regional Council reposted the footage to their page, brandishing it as a testament of the friendly nature of their area. 'Showing true Moreton Bay spirit, going above and beyond to help a neighbour out - we need more legends like this in the world,' they wrote. The launch was followed by sirens and warnings in South Korea and Japan North Korea has launched what is thought to be spy satellite into space Sirens and public speakers sounded briefly in South Korea and Japan last night amid fears Kim Jong Un had launched a ballistic missile days after announcing it would perform a satellite test. North Korea launched a rocket around 6:30am from the northwestern Tongchang-ri area, where the country's main space launch center is located, the Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. This sparked panic as alarms were heard across Seoul early and officials sent alerts over public speakers and smartphones for residents to prepare for evacuation - but this was later lifted. However the satellite launch ended in failure after the rocket's second stage malfunctioned, sending the craft plunging into the sea, North Korean state media said. It comes after Pyongyang announced a plan to put its first military spy satellite into orbit. This satellite picture by Planet Labs PBC shows the Sohae Satellite Launching Station near Tongchang-ri, North Korea on Tuesday This photo provided by the North Korean government shows what it says is a test of a rocket with the test satellite at the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in North Korea on Dec. 18, 2022. The content of this image is as provided and cannot be independently verified. The new 'Chollima-1' satellite launch rocket failed due to instability in the engine and fuel system, state news agency KCNA reported. The launch was the nuclear-armed state's sixth satellite launch attempt, and the first since 2016. It was supposed to launch North Korea's first spy satellite into orbit. The Japanese government activated a 'J-Alert' missile warning system for its Okinawa prefecture in southwestern Japan, believed to be in the path of the rocket, which North Korea said was carrying a satellite. 'Please evacuate into buildings or underground,' the alert said. It was also broadcast on public television NHK. Japan's coast guard said Monday that North Korea informed it of a plan to launch a satellite between May 31 and June 11. Japan's defense minister had ordered its forces to shoot down the satellite or debris, if any entered Japanese territory. A satellite launch by North Korea is a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban the country from using ballistic technology because it's regarded as a cover for missile tests. Ri Pyong Chol, a top North Korean official and close associate of leader Kim Jong Un, had said on Tuesday that North Korea was compelled to secure 'a reliable reconnaissance and information' system because of what it said were escalating security threats by the United States and its allies. He said the North would launch a spy satellite in June. It was not immediately clear whether a North Korean spy satellite would significantly bolster its defenses. The satellite disclosed in the country's state-run media didn't appear to be sophisticated enough to produce high-resolution imagery. But some experts note that it is still likely capable of detecting troop movements and big targets, such as warships and warplanes. Recent commercial satellite imagery of the North's main rocket launch center in the northwest showed active construction activities indicating that North Korea plans to launch more than one satellite, however. And in his statement Tuesday, Ri said the country it would be testing 'various reconnaissance means.' A TV screen displays a warning message called 'J-alert' after the Japanese government issued an emergency warning for residents of the southern prefecture of Okinawa, saying a missile had been launched from North Korea, in Tokyo, Japan, this morning He said those surveillance assets are tasked with 'tracking, monitoring, discriminating, controlling' and responding, both in advance and real time, to moves by the United States and its allies. With three to five spy satellites, North Korea could build a space-based surveillance system that allows it to monitor the Korean Peninsula in near real-time, according to Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Korea's Science and Technology Policy Institute. During his visit to the country's aerospace agency earlier this month, Kim emphasized the strategic significance a spy satellite could have in North Korea's standoff with the United States and South Korea. The satellite is one several high-tech weapons systems that Kim has publicly vowed to introduce in recent years. Other weapons he has pledged to develop include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. Denuclearization talks with the U.S. have been stalled since early 2019. In the meantime, Kim has focused on expanding his nuclear and missile arsenals in what experts say is an attempt to wrest concessions from Washington and Seoul. Since the beginning of 2022, North Korea has conducted more than 100 missile tests, many of them involving nuclear-capable weapons targeting the U.S. mainland, South Korea and Japan. North Korea says its testing activities are self-defense measures meant to respond to expanded military drills between Washington and Seoul that it views as invasion rehearsals. U.S. and South Korean officials say their drills are defensive and they've bolstered them to cope with growing nuclear threats by North Korea. The family of an 11-year-old boy who was shot in the chest by Mississippi police after calling them to his home for help are suing the city and officers for $5 million. Aderrien Murry was woken up at around 4am on May 20 by the sound of his mother's ex-boyfriend behaving threateningly, so she asked him to call the police. When officers from Indianola Police Department arrived moments later, Aderrien said he was asked to step out of his room. When he did, he was shot, and was lucky to survive. Aderrien suffered a collapsed lung, fractured ribs and a lacerated liver from the shooting and was placed on a ventilator at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. He spent five days in hospital. On Tuesday, the Murry family filed a lawsuit against the city of Indianola; the police chief, Brian Sher; and the officer who shot Aderrien, Greg Capers, 61. Aderrien Murry, 11, called 911 and his grandmother at 4am on May 20, when his mother's ex-boyfriend came to the house and the family felt threatened Mississippi police officer Greg Capers (left), accused of a shooting an 11-year-old boy in the chest after he dialed 911 for help, has been suspended without pay. Capers is being sued by the boy's family, along with the city of Indianola and the police chief, Brian Sher (right) Capers, named the best officer in Indianola in 2021, has been suspended, pending an investigation. Carlos Moore, the family's attorney, said Sher and Capers should be fired. They also want the body camera video of the shooting to be released to the public. 'It's the most egregious case of excessive force I've witnessed or heard in my 21 years of law practice,' said Moore. 'City of Indianola, we're coming after you, and you're going to pay them.' Mississippi Bureau of Investigation has announced it is examining the shooting - a routine procedure for all officer-involved shootings. Bailey Martin, a spokesman for the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, said last week that the department would not comment on the ongoing investigation, and MBI agents will share their findings with the state attorney general's office. Aderrien told Good Morning America that he felt 'a big punch' when he was shot. He said he began singing gospel songs to sustain himself as he staggered towards the door. 'I came out doing this,' he said, with his arms raised, during an interview with ABC News. 'It felt like a taser, like a big punch to the chest. 'I was bleeding, bleeding from my mouth. 'Then I would just remember singing a song.' Aderrien Murry, 11, described the moment he was shot in the chest by Mississippi police after calling 911 during an interview with ABC News Aderrien said the bullet 'felt like a Taser, like a big punch to the chest' and said he thought he was going to die Aderrien Murry was awoken at around 4am on May 20 to the sound of his mother's ex-boyfriend behaving threateningly outside the house (pictured) so he was asked to call the police When asked which song he was singing, Aderrien said: 'No weapon formed against me prosper shall' - referring to the Bible verse, Isaiah 54:17: 'No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper.' His mother, Nakala Murry, has called for Capers to be charged and fired. She described giving her son the phone and asking him to call his grandmother, after she woke up, heard a knock on the window, and saw her ex-boyfriend standing outside. 'I noticed he was kind of irate. And from dealing with him in the past, I know the irate version of him, what it could lead to,' she told Good Morning America. Aderrien called 911 and his grandmother, who in turn also called 911. Nakala claimed that when the officer arrived he 'had his gun drawn at the front door and asked those inside the home to come outside'. She added: 'Once he was like, come out with your hands up, at that moment is when my son came out.' She also spoke of the moment she put her hand over her son's wound to apply pressure while he 'sang gospel songs and prayed while bleeding out'. 'He was like: 'I don't want to die' - that's what he was saying,' she said. 'I said: 'You're not going to die, baby, you're not going to die, just keep talking'.' She previously said that the officer who fired the gun also tried to help by putting his hand over hers to try to stop Aderrien's bleeding. The family has hired an attorney, Carlos Moore (pictured), to assist them in bringing a case against the city Moore told CNN: 'We believe that the city and the officer should be liable to Aderrien Murray, for the damages they have caused.' The attorney's request for body camera footage of the incident to be released was rejected because of 'an ongoing investigation' by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation. But Moore said he had been told there is a video of the shooting captured from a nearby gas station. The MBI issued a statement after the shooting saying it is 'currently assessing this critical incident and gathering evidence' and would hand over its findings to the state attorney general's office after completing the investigation. Shocking new bodycam footage shows a missing Tennessee mom showing police multiple bruises after a drunken fight with her boyfriend telling cops she wants to see his 'a** in jail.' Nikki Alcaraz and Steven Tyler Stratton, both 33, vanished three weeks ago while road tripping in their black Jeep Wrangler from Nashville to Orange County, California. Torrance County Attorney's Office in New Mexico released 10 bodycam videos in the immediate aftermath of the vicious brawl. Video shows that Alcaraz was heavily bruised with marks on her arms and face while Stratton was covered in blood streaming from his nose and mouth. Following questioning, police released the pair with no charges after separating them and taking them to different locations. If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic violence, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 18007997233 (SAFE). Shocking new bodycam footage shows a missing Tennessee mom showing police multiple bruises after a drunken fight with her boyfriend telling cops she wants to see his 'a** in jail' Nikki Alcaraz and Steven Tyler Stratton, both 33, vanished three weeks ago while road tripping in their black Jeep Wrangler from Nashville to Orange County, California In one of the videos a noticeably distraught Alcaraz is seen standing next to the bystander who called police after he saw the 33-year-old mother-of-two being 'slapped' and 'punched in the face.' 'I'm a truck driver, as I was driving by I seen her on the ground and I see that dude over there slap her and punch her in the face,' said the bystander. 'He punched me in the eye,' Alcaraz adds. 'How is he related to you,' the responding officer is heard asking Alcaraz who responds 'We've been together 16 years... we're boyfriend/girlfriend.' When asked if she wants to press charges, Alcaraz nods and answers: 'Yeah' before revealing that she would like to see his 'a** in jail' while holding back tears. 'I just wanted to make sure she was ok,' the bystander is heard saying. Responding officers then ask if the man she is with, later identified as Stratton, is 'on anything' to which Alcaraz responds 'not that I know of no.' 'But I'm done, I want his a** to go to jail, I'm over it,' she repeats. Torrence County Sheriff's office earlier released an incident report in which it was revealed that Alcaraz could be heard screaming in the background of a 911 call to police during the May 4 incident. Torrance County Attorney's Office in New Mexico released 10 bodycam videos in the immediate aftermath of the vicious brawl In one of the videos a noticeably distraught Alcaraz is seen standing next to the bystander who called police after he saw the 33-year-old mother-of-two being 'slapped' and 'punched in the face' Video shows that Alcaraz was heavily bruised with marks on her arms and face while Stratton was covered in blood streaming from his nose and mouth Following questioning, police released the pair with no charges after separating them and taking them to different locations In the call the woman, later identified as Alcaraz, could be heard screaming in the background. The police report stated that the male, Stratton, was 'standing over her' before he 'punched her in the face.' According to the report by Torrance County Sheriff's Office obtained by DailyMail.com both Alcaraz and Stratton had been 'intoxicated.' The responding officer said he saw the 2013 Jeep in a small rest area and he noticed red marks on Alcaraz's face and fingerprint marks on both of her arms. He also observed that Stratton had 'blood coming from his mouth and nose area.' The responding officer said that Alcaraz had said they'd dropped off a friend in Amarillo, Texas, before picking up a bottle of Fireball whisky, which she and Stratton both drank. Alcaraz claimed that Stratton had 'started to hit her for no reason' and when they got to the rest area she jumped out of the vehicle but he 'caught her.' She also claimed to have a bruise on her chest and her back. The report identified the alleged assailant as 'Thomas,' but the sheriff's office confirmed with DailyMail.com that it meant Stratton. Stratton claimed that Alcaraz had also hit him, allegedly striking him to the mouth 'for no reason' and that she continued to hit him while they were traveling. The pair departed Tennessee in early May in this black Jeep, which has yet to be located. The car belongs to Alcaraz, and was last located by a license plate reader in Arizona on May 8 Alcaraz, who vanished just days after getting into a 'drunken dispute' with her boyfriend was also heard 'screaming on a 911' call made by a bystander Alcaraz was seen on a surveillance camera on Saturday, May 27, trying to sell her phone at an ecoATM in Redding, California He stated that, 'Nikki does blackout after drinking liquor' but he 'did not want her to go to jail.' A blood spatter on the passenger side door and blood on the 'running board' had been observed by the deputy and both disputed they'd been driving the vehicle. Neither one pressed charges. Police in Moriarty and Cheatham County Sheriff's office launched a missing person appeal saying Alcaraz is in 'danger' because of a 'history of domestic assault'- though there is no evidence that either is dead. Cheatham DA Ray Crouch is reportedly seeking a nationwide extradition order for Stratton on an unrelated arrest warrant. His office also released an image of Alcaraz on Saturday, May 27, trying to sell her phone at an ecoATM in Redding, California, according to WKRN. No other information has been released regarding her disappearance, but her family told GMA that they are 'scared after not hearing from her for three weeks.' Despite the grim parallels with the case of Gabby Petito, Toni is hopeful her sister is still alive. Alcarez is referred to as Cunningham which is her ex-partner's last name Alcaraz, Stratton and their dog set out on a road trip from Nashville to Southern California and were in an altercation in New Mexico on May 4. A police report filed by Torrance County Sheriff's Department shows the mother-of-two with a black eye after witnesses said they saw Stratton punch her in the face. Timeline of Alcaraz and Stratton vanishing Early May: The pair set off from Nashville to drive to Southern California in her black 2013 Jeep Wrangler, with her dog. May 4: Police in Moriarty, New Mexico, are called to reports of a fight in a vehicle. A truck driver says he had to pull Stratton away from Alcaraz. Stratton is dropped off several junctions away. Alcaraz spends the next two nights in a motel with a friend, who was called to assist. May 6: Alcaraz leaves the Super 8 motel early in the morning, saying she wants to find Stratton. May 8: Alcaraz texts her sister Toni to say she is in Arizona. It is unclear if Stratton and the dog are with her. Her Jeep is recorded on cameras near Flagstaff. There is no further sighting of the vehicle, Alcaraz, Stratton or the dog. Advertisement Daily Mail.com has contacted Torrance County Sheriff's Department, Moriarty Police Department, Redding Police Department and Cheatham County Sheriff's Office for a comment. DA Ray Crouch did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Both were then given rides by responding police, with Nikki dropped off in Moriarty, where she called her sister Toni, and a friend met her to stay the night in a motel. But the following day, Alcaraz insisted that she needed to find Stratton, who has not been seen since the violent incident. His family have not filed a missing persons report for him, but he is mentioned in the official appeals to find Alcaraz. Alcaraz - who is referred to as Nikki Cunningham in a missing poster - left the Super 8 motel in Moriarty, a town about 40 miles east of Albuquerque, around 7am on May 6 and has not been seen since. Her jeep was located by a license plate reader near Flagstaff, Arizona, on May 8, with Alcaraz messaging her sister to say she was planning to complete her trip. She did not say if she was alone or had re-joined Stratton with her dog. Her family has not heard from her since. Speaking to WKRN, Toni said: 'I am scared something happened to them, whether they got in another fight or if they crashed her Jeep somewhere. 'I talk to her almost every day, so I am scared something happened to them. It's a trip she's done hundreds of times.' Authorities are still searching for leads to find Alcaraz and Stratton, with the missing mom's family members urging witnesses to come forward. Federal officials have yet to involve themselves in the search, which has so far failed to turn up any leads. Stratton is wanted for failure to appear on a probation violation stemming over an unrelated theft charge. Speaking to WKRN, Toni said: 'I am scared something happened to them, whether they got in another fight or if they crashed her Jeep somewhere' Despite the grim precursor provided by the headline-case surrounding Petito, who was found dead two months after her fight with Laundrie, Toni said she is hopeful her sister is still alive Officials have yet to produce any evidence that indicates Alcaraz is dead - with her case currently being treated like that of a missing person. Despite the grim parallels with the case of Gabby Petito, Toni is hopeful her sister is still alive. 'I don't think she is dead out there somewhere, but it's all a possibility at this point, and I am really scared of that, but I'm praying that's not the case,' she said. Of the similarities to the Petito case, she further remarked: 'All the stories like that that seem to happen and seem to happen more often make it more terrifying.' The boyfriend of the Tennessee mom who was missing for three weeks is seen in police video begging cops to tell him where she is being dropped off after a drunken fight where he was seen 'punching her in the face.' Nikki Alcaraz and Steven Tyler Stratton, both 33, vanished three weeks ago while road tripping in their black Jeep Wrangler from Nashville to Orange County, California. On Tuesday, the couple was found alive in northern California, not far from the Oregon border after a tipster spotted them. Alcaraz told officers that she was fine while Stratton was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant. Torrance County Attorney's Office in New Mexico released 10 bodycam videos in the immediate aftermath of the vicious brawl. Following questioning, police released the pair with no charges after separating them and taking them to different locations. Stratton is heard pleading with police to tell him where she is going explaining that he 'loves her' and hoping they'll be released together. New bodycam footage revealed Steven Tyler Stratton - the boyfriend of Tennessee mom, Nikki Alcaraz - pleading to be with Alcaraz after the drunken brawl which left the pair bloodied and bruised on May 4 Stratton is heard pleading with police to tell him where she is going explaining that he 'loves her' and hoping they'll be released together. Police took them to separate locations 'You've both been drinking, there are issues with the car we're taking that,' a responding officer can be heard explaining in the footage. 'We'll give you guys separate rides into town, do you have money? No? Does she have money? No? 'Do you have a bag or something that you want to take with you?' Stratton, who is covered in his own blood and sitting in a police vehicle can be then heard asking, 'so I'm going to jail?' the responding officer saying: 'No.' 'We're taking you into town,' the officer said, to which Stratton asks 'What does that mean sir?' 'Like we're taking you into somewhere that isn't f*****g nowhere so you can have somewhere to go,' he explains. 'Can I talk to her,' Stratton asks before the responding officer says 'to do what.' 'Tell her that I love her and I don't wan to fight,' he explained. 'You guys have phones?' the officer questions Stratton, before the 33-year-old reveals that: 'She has a phone, she f*****g took my phone and threw it out [of the car].' 'I'm not inclined to let you guys talk I don't think it's a good idea we're going to get you somewhere you can figure it out from there,' the officer said. 'Are we being released together,' Stratton asks hopefully. 'No you're being released but not together we're not going to take you guys to the same place,' the officer repeats. Shocking bodycam footage showed Alcaraz pointing out multiple bruises on her to police after a drunken fight with her boyfriend telling cops she wants to see his 'a** in jail' Alcaraz, who vanished just days after getting into a 'drunken dispute' with her boyfriend was also heard 'screaming on a 911' call made by a bystander 'Well I need to know where she's going, I need to know where she's going,' said Stratton. 'Well that's up to her if she wants you to know,' the officer says in the bodycam. 'Can I ask her please,' asks Stratton, whose pleas are ignored by the officer who asks, 'what in the jeep do you need to take?' 'I just want her,' he responds despondently. 'Well you can't do that that's not on the table,' he finishes. In another video a noticeably distraught Alcaraz is seen standing next to the bystander who called police after he saw the 33-year-old mother-of-two being 'slapped' and 'punched in the face.' 'I'm a truck driver, as I was driving by I seen her on the ground and I see that dude over there slap her and punch her in the face,' said the bystander. 'He punched me in the eye,' Alcaraz adds. 'How is he related to you,' the responding officer is heard asking Alcaraz who responds 'We've been together 16 years... we're boyfriend/girlfriend.' When asked if she wants to press charges, Alcaraz nods and answers: 'Yeah' before revealing that she would like to see his 'a** in jail' while holding back tears. Nikki Alcaraz and Steven Tyler Stratton, both 33, vanished three weeks ago while road tripping in their black Jeep Wrangler from Nashville to Orange County, California The pair departed Tennessee in early May in this black Jeep, which has yet to be located. The car belongs to Alcaraz, and was last located by a license plate reader in Arizona on May 8 'I just wanted to make sure she was ok,' the bystander is heard saying. Responding officers then ask if the man she is with, later identified as Stratton, is 'on anything' to which Alcaraz responds 'not that I know of no.' 'But I'm done, I want his a** to go to jail, I'm over it,' she repeats. Torrence County Sheriff's office earlier released an incident report in which it was revealed that Alcaraz could be heard screaming in the background of a 911 call to police during the May 4 incident. In the call the woman, later identified as Alcaraz, could be heard screaming in the background. The police report stated that the male, Stratton, was 'standing over her' before he 'punched her in the face.' According to the report by Torrance County Sheriff's Office obtained by DailyMail.com both Alcaraz and Stratton had been 'intoxicated.' The responding officer said he saw the 2013 Jeep in a small rest area and he noticed red marks on Alcaraz's face and fingerprint marks on both of her arms. He also observed that Stratton had 'blood coming from his mouth and nose area.' The responding officer said that Alcaraz had said they'd dropped off a friend in Amarillo, Texas, before picking up a bottle of Fireball whisky, which she and Stratton both drank. Alcaraz was seen on a surveillance camera on Saturday, May 27, trying to sell her phone at an ecoATM in Redding, California Alcaraz claimed that Stratton had 'started to hit her for no reason' and when they got to the rest area she jumped out of the vehicle but he 'caught her.' She also claimed to have a bruise on her chest and her back. The report identified the alleged assailant as 'Thomas,' but the sheriff's office confirmed with DailyMail.com that it meant Stratton. Stratton claimed that Alcaraz had also hit him, allegedly striking him to the mouth 'for no reason' and that she continued to hit him while they were traveling. He stated that, 'Nikki does blackout after drinking liquor' but he 'did not want her to go to jail.' A blood spatter on the passenger side door and blood on the 'running board' had been observed by the deputy and both disputed they'd been driving the vehicle. Neither one pressed charges. Police in Moriarty and Cheatham County Sheriff's office had earlier launched a missing person appeal saying Alcaraz is in 'danger' because of a 'history of domestic assault'- though there is no evidence that either is dead. Cheatham DA Ray Crouch is reportedly seeking a nationwide extradition order for Stratton on an unrelated arrest warrant. Despite the grim parallels with the case of Gabby Petito, Toni is hopeful her sister is still alive. Alcarez is referred to as Cunningham which is her ex-partner's last name His office also released an image of Alcaraz on Saturday, May 27, trying to sell her phone at an ecoATM in Redding, California, according to WKRN. No other information has been released regarding her disappearance, but her family told GMA that they are 'scared after not hearing from her for three weeks.' Alcaraz, Stratton and their dog set out on a road trip from Nashville to Southern California and were in an altercation in New Mexico on May 4. Timeline of Alcaraz and Stratton vanishing Early May: The pair set off from Nashville to drive to Southern California in her black 2013 Jeep Wrangler, with her dog. May 4: Police in Moriarty, New Mexico, are called to reports of a fight in a vehicle. A truck driver says he had to pull Stratton away from Alcaraz. Stratton is dropped off several junctions away. Alcaraz spends the next two nights in a motel with a friend, who was called to assist. May 6: Alcaraz leaves the Super 8 motel early in the morning, saying she wants to find Stratton. May 8: Alcaraz texts her sister Toni to say she is in Arizona. It is unclear if Stratton and the dog are with her. Her Jeep is recorded on cameras near Flagstaff. There is no further sighting of the vehicle, Alcaraz, Stratton or the dog. Advertisement A police report filed by Torrance County Sheriff's Department shows the mother-of-two with a black eye after witnesses said they saw Stratton punch her in the face. Daily Mail.com has contacted Torrance County Sheriff's Department, Moriarty Police Department, Redding Police Department and Cheatham County Sheriff's Office for a comment. DA Ray Crouch did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Both were then given rides by responding police, with Nikki dropped off in Moriarty, where she called her sister Toni, and a friend met her to stay the night in a motel. But the following day, Alcaraz insisted that she needed to find Stratton, who has not been seen since the violent incident. His family did not file a missing persons report for him, but he is mentioned in the official appeals to find Alcaraz. Alcaraz - who is referred to as Nikki Cunningham in a missing poster - left the Super 8 motel in Moriarty, a town about 40 miles east of Albuquerque, around 7am on May 6 and was not seen again until May 30. Her jeep was located by a license plate reader near Flagstaff, Arizona, on May 8, with Alcaraz messaging her sister to say she was planning to complete her trip. She did not say if she was alone or had re-joined Stratton with her dog. Her family has not heard from her since. Speaking to WKRN, Toni said: 'I am scared something happened to them, whether they got in another fight or if they crashed her Jeep somewhere. 'I talk to her almost every day, so I am scared something happened to them. It's a trip she's done hundreds of times.' Authorities are still searching for leads to find Alcaraz and Stratton, with the mom's family members urging witnesses to come forward. Federal officials have yet to involve themselves in the search, which has so far failed to turn up any leads. Stratton is wanted for failure to appear on a probation violation stemming over an unrelated theft charge. Speaking to WKRN, Toni said: 'I am scared something happened to them, whether they got in another fight or if they crashed her Jeep somewhere' Despite the grim precursor provided by the headline-case surrounding Petito, who was found dead two months after her fight with Laundrie, Toni said she is hopeful her sister is still alive Despite the grim parallels with the case of Gabby Petito, Toni was hopeful her sister was still alive. 'I don't think she is dead out there somewhere, but it's all a possibility at this point, and I am really scared of that, but I'm praying that's not the case,' she said. Of the similarities to the Petito case, she further remarked: 'All the stories like that that seem to happen and seem to happen more often make it more terrifying.' Twin baby sisters defied the odds after doctors gave them just a ten per cent chance of survival - and will now celebrate their first birthday. Florence and Mabli Bond were born ten weeks early weighing 2lbs following their mum's 'extremely difficult' pregnancy. Parents Tom and Laureanna Bond, both 31, were then dealt the devastating blow that their baby girls had less than a ten per cent chance of surviving. But the tiny girls, of Abergele, north Wales, battled to survive and their delighted family will celebrate their first birthdays in July. Mrs Bond said: 'We were trying to get the pregnancy as far along as possible, every day counted due to the girls' tiny size. Florence and Mabli Bond were born ten weeks early weighing 2lbs following their mum's 'extremely difficult' pregnancy The tiny girls, of Abergele, North Wales, battled to survive and their delighted family will celebrate their first birthdays in July 'It was always a balancing act between the risks of delivering them and the risks of them staying inside in less than optimal conditions.' Mrs Bond said her babies, nicknamed her 'beautiful bees', were born ten weeks early by emergency C-section. But shortly after they were separated to be cared for by specialists in two different hospitals 13 miles apart. Mr Bond stayed by Florence's side at St Mary's in Manchester while his wife stayed with Mabli in Oldham. The girls' mother said: 'I said goodbye to Florence and I didn't know if I would ever see her alive again, I felt like shutting down. 'I didn't feel like I could cope with the stresses anymore but I knew I had to keep going for Mabli. 'As often as my health would allow we travelled between them, having to pull ourselves away from one of them in order to be with the other. It's hard to put into words the feelings that came with that.' Parents Tom and Laureanna Bond, both 31 (pictured with their girls) are thrilled that Florence and Mabli will soon be celebrating their first birthdays The family finally returned home following weeks of incredible care and have spent the last ten months attending medical appointments. The couple are now raising money to thank the charities that have helped them through the experience. Mrs Bond added: 'The experience was easily the most traumatic thing I have ever been through. We spent weeks wondering if our babies were going to survive and whether we would all make it home. 'There were several charities that, in those dark days, made things slightly easier and we now want to do our part and help raise some money to help them continue the wonderful work they do to help parents and families like ours.' The couple will walk 13 miles from Prestatyn to Colwyn Bay on July 15 to raise money - the same distance their daughters were kept apart in hospital. Money raised will be donated to Spoons, Cuddles, Ronald McDonald House, Breastfeeding Twins and Triplets UK and Homestart. The 'scandal' hit Confederation of British Industry (CBI) lobby group has sought legal advice on possible insolvency as it faces an existential crisis after sexual harassment claims. Lawyers from an unnamed City firm were hired to offer advice to the group, ahead of a make or break vote on its future this month. The group, which has previously claimed to represent 190,000 businesses, has been engulfed in a scandal after allegations of rape and inappropriate touching. Bosses are expected to publish a prospectus ahead of a company meeting on June 6, which will lay out proposed governance changes. New director general Rain Newton-Smith has pledged to turn around the group so it can continue to be a voice for businesses. The group, which has previously claimed to represent 190,000 businesses, has been engulfed in a scandal after allegations of rape and inappropriate touching READ MORE: CBI is rocked by new claims of sexual misconduct: Woman who says she was raped at staff boat party on Thames is among more than a dozen 'victims' to come forward Advertisement Former top staff at the company faced allegations of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behaviour to staff, after reports in The Guardian newspaper. Ex-director-general Tony Danker was sacked last month for allegedly making unwanted contact with a female employee. He claimed he has been made a 'fall guy' for the wider crisis. A CBI spokesperson said last night: 'Following a series of member resignations, we know that the CBI will need to be smaller and refocused in the future. 'The board has sought advice on matters of restructuring as may be appropriate, as any responsible board would.' If members vote against the proposals, the group may have to begin a winding up process. The CBI, which was founded in 1965, has faced a battle to retain members after dozens of major firms including Aviva, John Lewis and BT left or suspended their membership following a second rape allegation from a female employee last month. The Labour Party also confirmed it has severed links. Former member Andy Wood, head of Suffolk-based brewer Adnams, has previously told the BBC's Today programme: 'I think probably the CBI brand is now beyond repair. It will have to reinvent itself root and branch.' A 17-year-old boy has been charged with murder after a stabbing incident in Melbourne's west that killed a 16-year-old Melton South schoolboy in broad daylight. Police confirmed charges were laid against the youth from Hillside on Wednesday, almost a fortnight after Pasawm Lyhym tragically died. The 17-year-old is expected to appear in Melbourne Children's Court on Wednesday. The police investigation by homicide detectives is ongoing. Police had previously urged the youth to turn himself in, alleging he was a 'significant player' in the incident. Pasawm was fatally stabbed at Sunshine bus station on May 18 on his way to the cinema to watch the new Fast and Furious movie with his brother. A teen has been charged with murder after Pasawm Lyhym, 16 (pictured) was allegedly stabbed to death near Sunshine bus station in Melbourne's west Police allege a fight broke out between two groups of teenagers before the fatal incident. Haunting CCTV captured shortly before the incident showed Pasawm running down the street being chased by two teens. The motivation behind the confrontation remains unknown. Another boy was hospitalised after the incident and a third was treated at the scene for injuries. A 17-year-old from Caroline Springs and an 18-year-old from Burnside were interviewed by police and released without charge, pending further inquiries. The youngest of four children, Pasawm's family arrived in Australia as refugees from Myanmar and are actively involved in Melbourne's Chin community. Pasawm attended Staughton College and had dreams of becoming a carpenter. Pasawm's grief-stricken family are struggling to come to terms with the devastating loss and have demanded justice. A homicide investigation into the fatal stabbing of Pasawn continues. Pictured are police at the scene scene on May 18 Pasawm Lyhym has been remembered as a 'funny, really nice, a welcoming and kind person' Pasawm was intending to watch the new Fast and Furious movie with his brother on the night of his death. 'I can't believe it, 'cause he didn't even say goodbye to us properly,' his brother Mawn told Nine News earlier this month. 'Everyone loves him, he makes everyone smile.' '[He was] only 16. No-one deserves to die like that. No-one.' A heartbreaking video showed Pasawm's five-year-old nephew, Stephen, smiling as he tells the camera, 'I miss you... Pasawm.' Pasawm's cousin witnessed the teen's final moments. 'I screamed and said that's him, that's him [her cousin],' she told the Herald Sun. 'I tried to run and get help. I didn't want to look. It was all so fast.' Pasawm's death sparked an outpouring of community tributes. His family remembered him as 'funny, really nice, a welcoming and kind person', and stayed by his body for hours until just after midnight when he was taken by the coroner 'He was a lovely boy, sometimes funny, very friendly,' community representative Robert Sang said. 'This is the first time the Chin community has gone through a tragic incident like this.' School principal David Lord added: 'The Staughton College community is shocked at the senseless death of one of our students at Sunshine.' 'We are wrapping our arms around the family and friends of that student and ensuring that students and staff have all the support they need.' Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. A neighbor of a Florida teacher found dead in her apartment alongside her lover in a suspected murder-suicide heard a 'very loud, screechy scream' the night she died. Amanda Hicks, 26, was found stabbed to death at the home she shared with her unnamed partner and 10-month-old daughter on Saturday, in Port St Lucie, Florida. The little girl was heard crying in her crib behind a locked door before police entered the building and discovered the sixth-grade teacher dead next to a man. A neighbor claims they heard loud screaming coming from the first floor-apartment late on Friday night. Authorities have not confirmed her partner's identity but revealed they are not looking for anyone else in connection with Hicks' death and believe he killed her before taking his own life. A neighbor of Amanda Hicks, found dead in her Florida apartment alongside her lover in a suspected murder-suicide, heard a 'very loud, screechy scream' on the night of the incident The sixth-grade teacher was found lying on the floor of the home she shared with her unnamed partner and 10-month-old daughter on Saturday, in Port St Lucie Neighbor Monica Ventura, 56, said she heard a 'very loud, screechy scream' come from the home in the Peacock Run apartment complex late on Friday night Officers discovered the bodies in the Peacock Run apartment complex after a family member of the unnamed man requested a welfare check on a male resident there at around 11.45am. Hicks' daughter Alani was found unharmed in her crib, and is now in the custody of another family member following the murder. A neighbor spoke out and said she heard a 'very loud, screechy scream' come from the apartment the night before. 'That scream stays in my head,' Monica Ventura, 56, told local news website TC Palm. Hicks, her partner and daughter moved into the property three weeks before the tragic incident and neighbors said they wish they 'could have reached out' to help the couple, adding 'they seemed very normal'. They said: 'We didn't even get time to even get to know them because everything happened so fast. My heart goes out for the family, though. Hopefully, they find peace in all of this.' Tributes poured in for the middle school teacher who worked at Dr David L Anderson Middle School. The school is closed for the summer break, but Martin County has offered counseling to teachers and staff for the incident. Principal Darcia Borel sent out a memo to staff members identifying her as the female victim, writing: 'The Port St. Lucie Police Department has confirmed that Ms. Hicks was the victim of a homicide. Hicks, her partner and daughter moved into the property three weeks before the tragic incident and neighbors said they wish they 'could have reached out' to help the couple Hicks is pictured with her brother, Eric, who posted on Facebook 'Yall plz help us raise money for my sisters funeral and service and everything' Tributes poured in for the middle school teacher who worked at Dr David L Anderson Middle School 'While words will never be enough to convey the shock and sadness this news has brought to our school family, it is more important than ever to come together to support one another through our grief journey. 'Additional information about memorials and opportunities for supporting Amanda's beautiful little girl will be forthcoming.' Hicks gave birth to Alani in July and lost her mother in December 2018 after a battle with cancer. Her brother Eric asked for support for her funeral and service online. A lifelong friend described Hicks as being 'passionate' for her friends and family, adding that she was 'absolutely gorgeous inside and out'. 'This world will never be the same without you Your creativity was pure art. Everything you made turned to gold,' Mariah Uphues wrote online. 'You were not afraid to speak your mind and even when life tried to knock you down, you still got up and fought at the end of the day. Hicks, a sixth-grade teacher, is pictured with her mother, who died from cancer in December 2018 Police are pictured on Saturday outside the Peacock Run apartment complex where they found Hicks dead along with an unnamed man Officers discovered the bodies at the apartment after a family member requested a welfare check on a male resident there 'Even though I don't know what happened that day, I don't hold any hate in my heart towards him and my heart goes out to his family. 'I can't even express my gratefulness for Alani being found unharmed but nothing can ever fully replace having her parents by her side you were loved by so many and will be missed for all of our remaining years.' And Hicks' friend of five years, Raquel Magallon, told WBPF that she was 'an angel' who brought joy to all those who knew her. 'She just lit up the room. She had such a big, beautiful smile. She was always happy and always energetic. 'She was just an angel. She definitely brightened my day every time I saw her.' A father who call an Asian airport official a 'Rochdale paedo' after he tried to stop him smuggling a huge batch of cigarettes into the country has been jailed for three years. Michael Legros, 32, arrived at Manchester Airport from Bali with 19,300 mixed brand smokes worth more than 7,500. When told he could only bring in 200 cigarettes he launched a tirade of abuse at the border force officers telling them he could 'buy' them. Legros told an Asian officer: 'Did you enjoy looking at my kids' underwear? You look like a Rochdale paedo.' He said: 'What's the f***ing problem. I've paid tax on these cigarettes' but they were later referred to HMRC and he received a Civil Evasion Penalty of 7,876. Father Michael Legros, 32 from Liverpool, who call an Asian airport official a 'Rochdale paedo' after he tried to stop him smuggling a huge batch of cigarettes into the country has been jailed for three years Legros was also sentenced for threatening members of the public with a knife in Hale in May 2022. He was with his partner and four young children when officers asked to check his suitcases on 24 March 2020. Legros told officers they were 'c***s', 'f***ing tramps' and 'scruffs'. He said: 'I could f***ing buy you lot... you earn 20,000 a year, you can f***ing have him. 'Keep the suitcase you scruffy b******s, I'll get another one for 50. I've got Louis Vuitton bags and a watch worth more than you earn.' The officers called for backup fearing Legros would become violent. The Asian officer said he felt physically shaken and was 'totally intimidated at the severe racist abuse that was directed at me.' Legros, of Woolton, Liverpool, has previous convictions for using threatening behaviour to cause harassment or distress, possession of drugs, obstructing a police constable, dangerous driving and driving without insurance. He denied but was convicted of racially aggravated harassment, affray and threatening someone with a bladed article. Legros was jailed for a total of three years at Liverpool Crown Court. Legros was jailed for a total of three years at Liverpool Crown Court (pictured) Charles Lee, Operations Manager at the National Crime Agency, said: 'Michael Legros's behaviour throughout this incident was abhorrent. 'Having been caught trying to avoid the duty on thousands of cigarettes, he directed a tirade of vitriolic abuse towards two Border Force officers. 'He then compounded this behaviour by subjecting one of the officers to disgusting racist abuse. 'Border Force officers perform the crucial role of protecting the UK by facilitating the legitimate movement of individuals and goods. 'No one should ever be abused in this way and we were determined to hold Legros to account for his actions on behalf of our Border Force colleagues.' Murdo Macmillan, Director of Border Force North, said: 'Verbal assault and racism towards our officers are not tolerated and action will be taken against those who assault our staff. 'We welcome the sentencing of Legros and will continue to ensure the safety and security of the UK.' Politicians this morning cast their vote on a bill which will allow the Voice to Parliament referendum to proceed later this year. The Constitutional Alteration Bill passed in the House of Representatives with an enormous 121-25 majority, and onlookers would be forgiven for thinking Liberal MPs had changed their tune after months of opposition to the proposal. Pictures from inside the House during the division show 25 No voters taking up less than two rows, while Yes voters crowd the opposite side. However, the Liberal party has not softened on its stance on the Voice, with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton saying his party would not stand in the way of giving the Australian public the right to vote in the referendum. A handful of Liberal MPs were chosen to oppose the bill - allowing them and only them to officially contribute to the No campaign pamphlet - while the remainder voted Yes to ensure it passed through to the Senate. Nationals MPs all voted No. Keen onlookers would be forgiven for thinking Liberal MPs had changed their tune after months of standing firm against the proposal Ms Ley delivered an impassioned speech in parliament in response to Mr Albanese's 'Chicken Littles' sledge from Monday The bill will make its way to the Senate in two weeks, after estimates hearings conclude. Only those MPs who voted against the Constitutional Alteration Bill are allowed to work on the No essay which will be contained in an official referendum pamphlet set to be sent to every Australian home at least two weeks before the vote. The pamphlet will contain two essays up to 2,000 words long arguing the cases for and against the Voice to Parliament. Debate over the Voice to Parliament has gripped the House for the better part of two weeks, with 90 speakers listed to voice their opinions. Labor's message is that a vote 'from the heart' will give Indigenous Australians equal footing and opportunity to provide input on matters which directly impact their lives. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has long said it is a 'modest' request of the Australian public, noting he feels a personal responsibility to see his promise through to Indigenous communities who 'have waited so long'. But he's been criticised along the way for his divisive language toward No voters and members of the public and parliament who are still on the fence. Liberals deputy leader Sussan Ley, the party's most senior female politician, on Tuesday accused him of 'descending toward the gutter' with 'deplorable' remarks toward Australians who intend on voting No. After weeks of mudslinging about the Voice, Ms Ley drew a line in the sand, saying: 'People of goodwill can disagree.' She reassured the public it is okay to vote 'No, just as it is okay to vote Yes. 'Regardless of whether Yes narrowly wins, or narrowly loses, millions of Australians will vote No,' she said. 'They deserve better than their Prime Minister referring to them as 'undertakers preparing the grave to bury Uluru', 'Chicken Littles', or anything else with such deplorable connotations.' Ms Ley also criticised Mr Albanese for 'refusing to provide detail' about the ins and outs of the Voice, and 'taking the low road, hurling insults instead'. 'There is a special obligation on the Prime Minister to keep this debate respectful, because if he continues to descend into the gutter, how on earth can he lecture anyone else about the evils of joining him down there?' The Albanese government has maintained that amending the Constitution is the form of recognition Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders asked for in the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart A displaced renter could be out of pocket by thousands of dollars after a fire ripped through a building next door forcing him to stay in a hotel and pay $270 a night. Tam Campbell was uprooted from his studio apartment following the massive blaze near his building on Randle Street in Surry Hills, Sydney, on Thursday. He has been forced to take up residence at a hotel and said he believed his costs would be covered by his unit's strata management. Tam Campbell (pictured) said the strata management for his unit has said it will not pay for his emergency accommodation Mr Campbell was displaced from his studio apartment last Thursday after a blaze ravaged the neighbouring heritage-listed building in Surry Hills (pictured, the aftermath) A stunned Mr Campbell has since learned strata will not cover the costs of his emergency accommodation because he is a tenant, and not the owner of the unit. Some 120 firefighters were called in to battle the blaze at the seven-storey building when it broke out in Sydney last week. Mr Campbell who has lived next door to the building for more than 10 years had left his unit just minutes before it caught alight. He then watched in horror as the fierce blaze took hold - hoping the block of units where he lived would not be destroyed. After the blaze was finally extinguished on Friday morning Mr Campbell's building remained intact but had sustained extensive damage. He was then barred from going back to his home - except for when a police officer accompanied him to pick up bare essentials. Since then he has been forced to stay at a nearby hotel where he pays $270 a day. 'I'm being told I won't be able to claim hotel accommodation as I'm a tenant not an owner,' Mr Campbell told Daily Telegraph. 'My understanding is that body corporate are just putting owners up and I just don't want to be out of pocket.' Mr Campbell who has no family living nearby wants to stay close to his place so he can quickly go there to pick up more of his things when possible. Mr Campbell who has lived next door to the old hat factory on Randle Street for more than 10 years had left his unit just minutes before the fire started He added he knows of other tenants forced out of their homes in the neighbourhood that are also on struggle street. 'One tenant told me he couldn't even afford a single night at a hotel,' Mr Campbell said. But Mr Campbell said he hopes his home and contents insurance might be able to cover his hotel costs, but it is still uncertain. His real estate will refund him rent paid in advance, he added. Tenants in NSW are not obligated to keep paying rent after a disaster like this if it renders their home unsafe to return to. But he also wants strata to change its mind about supporting him. Mr Campbell said he has no idea when he will return home and said he owes $1,620 to the hotel. Daily Mail Australia contacted Mr Campbell for comment. A wildfire tore through the Highlands yesterday as Scotland recorded the UKs hottest day of the year so far. Two firefighters were injured as they responded to the blaze, which is visible on satellite images. It came as temperatures in Scotland hit a high of 24.4C (76F) in Tyndrum, Perthshire, yesterday, making the country hotter than Athens in Greece which reached 23C (73F). The blaze started on Tuesday last week and had been brought under control but it flared up again on Sunday. Experts say the fire could become one of the largest ever seen in Scotland. Experts said the wildfire could become one of the largest ever seen in Scotland as strong winds have helped it spread The wildfire near at Kerrow Farm in Cannich near Inverness was visible on satellite images (pictured) The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to the blaze at Kerrow Farm in Cannich, Inverness-shire, just before 1pm on Sunday. On Monday, a helicopter was deployed to try to water bomb the area but the flames spread. The two firefighters were hurt when the all-terrain vehicle they were travelling in at the wildfire site overturned. Both were airlifted to hospital at around 9.30am yesterday. Their condition was described as stable and they were expected to be discharged last night. A spokesman for Scotlands Charity Air Ambulance said: SCAA deployed its Aberdeen-based air ambulance with a paramedic and a critical care team on board. One person was airlifted to Raigmore Hospital [in Inverness] and the specialist team went with the second as they were taken by coastguard helicopter to the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. Locals were urged to keep windows and doors shut due to the prevalence of heavy smoke in the area. A fire service spokesman said: We currently have five appliances on the scene, where firefighters are continuing to extinguish the fire and prevent further fire spread. We anticipate this incident will be ongoing for the foreseeable future. The fire has spread and additional helicopters have been requested for water bombing. Satellite images showed the blaze had burned almost 11.5 square miles by 2pm yesterday. On Monday, a helicopter was deployed to try and water bomb the area but the flames continued to spread The fire tore through the Highlands as Scotland recorded its hottest day so far as temperatures hit 24.4C (76F) in Tyndrum, Perthshire Wildfire expert Dr Thomas Smith said the images also showed strong winds evident from the smoke plume meaning it could spread to become one of Scotlands largest wildfires. Scotlands largest by burned area on record took place in May 2019 in between Melvich and Strathy, Sutherland, and covered 20.9 square miles. Dr Smith told The Herald: I think if its not contained by [Wednesday] morning, it could get close. The exact cause of the latest blaze is not yet known. However, Forestry Land Scotland (FLS), the government agency which manages forests and land, believes it may be associated with wild camping. It said there had been a similar incident in Tentsmuir Forest in Fife last Thursday, which was started by a campfire. FLS north region manager Alex MacLeod, said: Many people are enjoying being out in the countryside to enjoy the hot weather but the lack of rain recently has made much of the countryside tinder-box dry. Camping stoves are clearly recommended as being a better option than campfires but when the weather has been as hot as it has, and the ground is as dry as it is, neither are advisable.' 'Regardless of how it started, this particular incident is a sobering reminder of how easily and quickly a wildfire can take hold and become a major problem. The SFRS has dealt with numerous wildfires across the Highlands in recent days. Last week it issued a warning of a very high risk of wildfire for Inverness-shire, Nairn, the Loch Ness area, Easter Ross and southern parts of Sutherland and up to the east coast of Caithness. Two firefighters were injured as they responded to the blaze near Inverness on Sunday The warnings come as Scotland looks set to enjoy another week of warm weather. Forecasters said the temperatures could climb to similar highs again today, with the West of the country expected to get the best of the conditions. Met Office spokesman Nicola Maxey said: We have high pressure dominating so lots of dry and fine weather across the country. The West is looking likely to be the hottest, there is some cloud in the east and an inland breeze cooling things a little there. While sometimes with high pressure we see temperatures build it doesnt look like this is the case this week as that cloud is moving around but clearing from the West during the day time. But what I will say is that temperatures are likely to hang around in the low 20s, depending on the cloud. By the weekend, they could possibly be into the high teens but the dry, fine weather could hang around into next week. Australia's most powerful banker has warned crippling rent and house price rises will only get worse as the nation's population soars because of record immigration. Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Philip Lowe suggested the construction of new homes was failing to keep pace with demand. This financial year, a record 400,000 new migrants are moving to Australia with the pace of population growth from immigration - 1.7 per cent - among the highest in the developed world in a nation with a low birthrate. 'The population's increasing by two per cent this year. Are there two per cent more houses? No,' Dr Lowe told the Senate economics committee in Canberra on Wednesday. 'The rate of addition to the housing stock is very low. 'We've got a lot of people coming into the country, people wanting to live alone, it doesn't work. 'The way that this ends up fixing itself, unfortunately, is through higher housing prices and higher rents.' Dr Lowe's warning came as it was revealed inflation rose in April to 6.8 per cent - up from 6.3 per cent - despite the Reserve Bank hiking interest rates 11 times in a year. Economist Warren Hogan said the shock update could force interest rates up again on Tuesday next week. Scroll down for video Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Philip Lowe suggested the housing supply crisis was only likely to get worse with construction failing to keep pace with demand An ANZ-CoreLogic report released this week showed renters across Australia were spending 30.8 per cent of their income paying a lease, the highest level since June 2014. This is coinciding with a slump in building approvals with the 8.1 per cent drop in April taking it to the lowest level since 2012, the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed on Tuesday. Dr Lowe suggested more younger Australians would continue living at home with their parents. 'As rents go up, people decide not to move out of home,' he said. An ANZ-CoreLogic report released this week showed renters across Australia were spending 30.8 per cent of their income paying a lease, the highest level since June 2014 (pictured is a rental inspection queue in Sydney) Australia's population growth trajectory 1881: 2.3million 1918: 5million 1959: 10million 1981: 15million 1991: 17.4million 2004: 20million 2013: 23million 2016: 24million 2018: 25million 2022: 26million Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics Advertisement The national rental vacancy rate of 1.1 per cent is at record lows, after more people chose to live alone during the pandemic only for immigration to surge as Australia was reopened again to skilled migrants and international students. Capital city rents during the past year have soared by 20.7 per cent to $662 a week, SQM Research data showed. 'The underlying issue here is supply and demand in the rental market,' Dr Lowe said. 'The vacancy rates in many cities are very low, the rental vacancy rate is the lowest it's ever been. 'During the pandemic, the average number of people living in each household declined. 'People wanted more space, they were working from home.' Migrants sick of expensive rent, who are on higher salaries, would be more likely to buy their own home to live in. Sydney's median house price in April increased by 1.3 per cent to an even more unaffordable $1.254millon, CoreLogic data showed, despite the Reserve Bank increasing interest rates 11 times during the past year to an 11-year high of 3.85 per cent. House prices also increased in Melbourne, Brisbane Adelaide, Perth and Hobart. While tighter monetary policy has reduced real estate values during the past year, prices have historically bounced back once the rate rises have stopped. The Treasury Budget papers forecast a record 400,000 migrants arriving in 2022-23, on a net basis, followed by another 315,000 in 2023-24. They also predicted 1.5million people moving to Australia over five years, from 2022-23 to 2026-27, causing the population to swell to 28.17million from 26.5million. Australians have reacted furiously to suggestions they will have to stay in the workforce until 70 years of age before retiring. New modelling done by Macquarie Universitys Business school proposes that by 2050 Australians will need to continue working until they reach 70. The model takes into account Australia's ageing population and low birth rate, meaning more people will reach pension age but with less people of working age to support state-paid pensions. Younger Australians who are already having to battle a cost of living crisis were furious at the suggestion. Australians have been left furious after Macquarie University research suggested the retirement age should gradually increase to 70 by 2050 (stock image) Those working in physically demanding occupations were particularly vocal on social media, claiming their bodies would wear down well before they reach 70. 'Try and be a Tradie at 70,' one user wrote. 'I'm turning 40 this year, if I can work until 70 it'll be a miracle,' a second user wrote. 'I work in a laborious job and have many injuries and one major injury in the last two years. My body is already telling me it wants me to stop and find a easier job.' 'I work 12hrs a day, have been underground for 15 years,' a third user wrote. 'I love my job, most likely will not need the pension, but despise a requirement to work longer and longer.' Others users urged younger generations to contribute to their superannuation as much as possible to comfortably leave the workforce at an earlier age. 'Consider optimising your superannuation contributions when you can, if possible start as soon as you get your first pay,' one user wrote. 'Ive been telling my kids for years to put (money) away as there wont be a pension as we know it. Luckily my advice is sort of being listened to,' another wrote. The model took into account Australia's ageing population and low birth rate that will place pressure on fewer workers to support pensioners (stock image) Younger Australians, especially those working in physically demanding occupations, were furious at the suggestion they would have to work demanding jobs for longer (pictured) Currently, Australians are able to access a pension wage at 65 years and 6 months as long as they were born between July 1, 1952 and December 31, 1953. Those born after that date will be able to access their pension from the age of 66. From July 1, anyone born after January 1, 1957 will have to work even longer with the pension age increasing yet again to 67-years-old. Macquarie University Professor of statistics, Hanlin Shang, claims their research suggests the pension age will have to continually increase. 'Less people in the working group and more in retirement will make the old age dependency ratio (OADR) higher,' Professor Shang told The Lighthouse, the university's publication. 'What this means is there are less working people to support elderly people. And with more elderly people in the population, this will create a burden for the government pension system.' An elderly widow has been forced to sell her home after being conned out of her life savings worth almost $500,000. Margaret, 91, thought she was helping to track down fraudsters working inside banks when she was contacted by a man claiming to be from Australian Federal Police. Over the next 10 months, the fake police officer who went by the name of Andrew William, called Margaret almost every day with instructions on where to transfer money, which included Australian and overseas accounts. The great-grandmother from Queensland had no idea she was being scammed of her entire savings, despite being questioned by her bank about the large withdrawals. A heartbroken Margaret is now bravely sharing her story and the heavy toll it's taken on her life and her family in a warning to other Aussies. Margaret (pictured) was duped of her entire life savings over the space of 10 months 'He was a smooth operator. I don't know what else I can say about him. Evil, anyway' Margaret told A Current Affair. 'I thought my days were numbered. It wasn't good. I really haven't felt the same since. 'It takes a bit of convincing to convince me of these things. I look back now and think, how could I be so stupid.' Her son Brett added: 'I thought Mum would have been the last person to get scammed like this.' Margaret says the scammer told her that someone at her bank was trying to steal her money and persuaded her to transfer the savings to another bank so the AFP could keep a close eye on the hackers. Margaret says she was told not to tell her friends or family as it would threaten the police operation. 'He said people were losing all their money through the hackers and that some banks were better to deal with than others,' she said. Scams involving the impersonation of cops are on the rise, according to AFP The transactions raised alarm bells at Bank of Queensland, where Margaret was a long-time customer. 'She (at the bank) did sort of try to say, 'are you sure this isn't a scam?' Margaret recalled. 'But after being threatened, I wasn't going to say, 'I'm taing it because this could be a fraudulent bank.' By the time Margaret tried to withdraw money from one of her new accounts and realised there was nothing there, it was too late. 'I felt very alone and actually really sick. I could hardly walk or speak or do anything,' she said. 'I was quite beside myself.' Her son added: 'I often spoke to her about it to make sure that she didn't answer the phone to anyone she didn't know and engage in conversations, but it happened. 'I was quite angry that she decided not to speak to anyone else about this money. 'But then I understood she's the victim here.' Margaret (pictured) will now have to sell her home built by her son after being scammed Scams impersonating police are common and worryingly on the rise, according to AFP acting Assistant Commissioner for Cyber Command Chris Goldsmid. 'The police, the AFP will never call you and ask you to transfer money or send money anywhere out of your accounts,' he said. Commissioner Goldsmid stressed the importance of reporting early if you suspect you've been scammed so the banks and police can investigate and attempt to recover money. Sadly, it's too late to recover Margaret's life savings. She will now have to sell the home that was built for her and her late husband by their son 28 years ago. When asked if she had a message for the scammer who stole her money, Margaret replied: 'I would put a bullet through him if I could.' 'No, really, I don't know what I would say to him.' Police has issued a series of warnings in recent years about scammers using fake AFP credentials to target vulnerable Aussies, including the elderly. AFP acting Assistant Commissioner for Cyber Command Chris Goldsmid is now warning Aussies to be aware of scams which involve the impersonation of police officers One of the most recent scams involved criminals pretending to be the AFP through emails and letters. 'If you receive an email or letter claiming to be the AFP, it's not us. This is not how we would contact you,' the AFP said in a Facebook post. If you are contacted by someone you suspect is a scammer, end the call immediately and contact the AFP switch in your capital city. They will whether confirm that it is a scam and you can then report the matter via the Scamwatch website. Other signs to watch out for include emails not from a legitimate AFP email address ending in afp.gov.au, and the email does not show who it was sent to and calls for urgent action. The head of US Border Patrol has announced he will step down from the role on June 30, just two years after taking on the job and without naming a successor. Chief Raul Ortiz has faced a number of challenges throughout his tenure in the top role, including the major policy shift as Title 42 restrictions ended this month and managing record migrant crossings on the southern border. In March, asked at a House Homeland Security Committee hearing by Chair Mark Green whether DHS had 'operational control of the entire border', he was forced to admit: 'No, sir.' But in a statement shared with staff on Tuesday, he said: 'I leave at ease, knowing we have a tremendous uniformed and professional workforce, strong relationships with our union partners, and outstanding leaders who will continue to tirelessly advocate for you each day.' Ortiz managed the Border Patrol and its roughly 20,000 agents through the pandemic and Title 42 emergency health restrictions, allowing agents to quickly return migrants across the border. He then oversaw the opening of new legal pathways for migration and managed record migration highs. Ortiz speaks to the media near the International Bridge where thousands of Haitian migrants have formed a makeshift camp, Sunday, Sept. 19, 2021, in Del Rio, Texas Immigrants seeking asylum in the U.S., who are stuck in a makeshift camp between border walls between the U.S. and Mexico, sit as a Customs and Border Protection officer keeps watch while other migrants are lined up to be transported on May 13, 2023 in San Diego, California The Border Patrol, an agency of the Department of Homeland Security, has been been under a constant spotlight for years as the number of illegal crossings spiked. After Title 42 restrictions wound down earlier this month, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) apprehended some 26,382 migrants within just 72 hours. Some 7,399 people managed to escape, according to figures released by Ortiz. They also intercepted 329lbs of various drugs, including fentanyl, meth and heroin. In January, an Arizona county official spoke out on the difficulty of enforcing the southern border shared with Mexico as cartel trafficking operations intensify. Yuma County Supervisor Jonathan Lines told Fox News: 'The cartels are basically running this border.' The Biden administration since anticipated a spike in the number of daily crossings from 7,700 to 13,000 once Title 42 ended. It was reported that the end of Title 42 had led to overcrowding at the El Paso Central Processing Facility, with 6,000 people in the 1,000 capacity space. An operational update for April showed overall encounters for the month along the southwest border totaled 211,401, up 10 percent from March. They claimed the increase in encounters from March to April was typical, while noting the crossover from processing with Title 42 in place to longstanding Title 8 authorities. 35 percent were processed for expulsion under Title 42. Shifting border policies have been a pressing challenge for Ortiz over the last year, who is also responsible for the US' borders with Canada and territories in the Caribbean. Increasingly, it is families now looking to cross the border into the US, who are then taken into custody. The agency was at the center of a firestorm during the Trump administration's policy of separating families. During the Biden administration, some agents were found to have engaged in 'unnecessary use of force' against non-threatening Haitian migrants. Two weeks ago, an 8-year-old Panamanian girl died in their custody on her family's ninth day in custody; the most time allowed is 72 hours under agency policy. Border Patrol searches immigrants at the US-Mexico border on May 12, 2023 in El Paso, Texas U.S. Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz (R) speaks at a press conference on May 5, 2023 in Brownsville, Texas. Department of Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas was joined by Ortiz and others speak about the immigration and the Trump-era expulsion policy Title 42 Ortiz took over as chief in August 2021, following the ouster of Rodney Scott, who enthusiastically embraced Trump's policies, including construction of a border wall with Mexico. Ortiz, like Scott, was a career official who slowly climbed the ranks over his 30-year career, and was Scott's top deputy at the time he became the agency's leader but stayed away from more charged issues like the border wall. Almost from the start of his tenure, Ortiz faced extraordinary frustration within his ranks as illegal crossings reached the highest levels ever recorded. Ortiz acknowledged at a meeting with agents in Laredo, Texas, in January 2022 that morale was at an 'all-time low' after an agent complained about 'doing nothing' but releasing migrants in the US to pursue their cases in immigration court, according to leaked video published in the Washington Examiner. The 25th Chief of the United States Border Patrol started his career in May 1991 in San Diego, working up through the ranks at Chula Vista, Brownfield and Campo stations before serving in official patrolling agent roles at the Del Rio Sector. Ortiz went on to national roles in 2009, serving as Director of the Border Management Task Force and senior to the DHS' envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, and DHS Attache in Kabul. Since 2012, Ortiz has served in a number of high-ranking roles in the US, becoming Chief Patrol Agent for the Del Rio Sector in 2019 and becoming Deputy Chief of the US Border Patrol on March 2, 2020, at the start of the pandemic. Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz attends a press conference on May 5, 2023 in Brownsville, Texas A Venezuelan migrant glances into the United States from the Mexican side of the U.S.-Mexico border on May 13, 2023 in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico On Tuesday, Mayorkas praised Ortiz as a great leader who was committed to the well-being of his agents. 'Selecting him to lead the Border Patrol was among the most important decisions I have made,' he said. 'Chief Ortiz agreed to postpone his retirement several times since and the Border Patrol, the Department, and our country have been all the better for it.' A pleasure boat which capsized on an Alpine lake killing four people was hosting a party for Italian and Israeli spies, with a former Mossad agent among the dead, it has been revealed. The Gooduria, which overturned while sailing on Lake Maggiore in northern Italy at around 7.20pm on Sunday, is thought to have been overloaded. Some 21 passengers were on board alongside two crew, exceeding the 15-person limit, The Times reports. Those on board were said to be Italian and Israeli intelligence workers, some of whom were retired. The 52-foot boat had been chartered for a birthday lunch, with a trip to an island but it was beset with strong winds and hail as it returned to shore. Fire brigade and scuba divers perform recovery operations of the boat, yesterday Carabinieri and fire brigade officers take part in the search and rescue operation in Lake Maggiore Two members of the Italian AISE national illegence agency were named among the dead - Tiziana Barnobi, 53, and Claudio Alonzi, 62 alongside Israeli former Mossad agent Shimoni Erez, 53. The boat captain's wife, Russian-born Anna Bozhkova, 50, was the fourth person who drowned in the tragedy. In a statement, AISE confirmed Barnobi and Alonzi were taking part in a convivial meeting organised to celebrate the birthday of one of the group. Erezs body was recovered from the lake, while the other three bodies were found trapped inside the vessel after sank to the bottom of the lake at a depth of 15metres. The survivors reportedly swam to shore and were spirited away to nearby hotels to protect their anonymity. Local resident Franco Lora said: I heard desperate shouts for help and saw many people swimming in the freezing water. Shipyard worker Daniele Piccaluga told the Corriere della Sera newspaper: I immediately went out in my motorboat but there was no sign of the boat, it had been swallowed by the lake, leaving pieces of wood and seats floating on the surface. Emergency services scoured the 41-mile lake for debris from the vessel Bad weather was cited as the reason for the accident which claimed the four lives Lake Maggiore is based in the Northern Lombardy region of Italy and is the country's second-largest lake Scuba divers were seen searching for bodies in the water yesterday Claims that the captain of the vessel ignored a warning at 5.30pm for all boats on the lake to return to shorewill be examined by a magistrate. Analysts say the bad weather was caused by a 'downburst' - a heavy downward wind that radiates outwards once it hits the surface during a storm. The boat had been carrying both Italian and foreign tourists including Britons and Germans, and it sank quickly, taking one of the victims with it, according to reports. A firefighters' video showed a search and rescue helicopter flying over choppy waters, where chairs and other debris were floating. According to reports from the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, two were taken to hospital in 'moderately critical' condition, while three were taken in 'not very critical condition'. A further 15 were treated at the scene and did not require further medical attention, reports have said. A Foreign Office spokesperson said: 'We are in contact with local authorities in Italy after a boat accident and are ready to provide consular assistance to any British nationals involved.' Lake Maggiore, which lies on the south side of the Alps, is the second largest lake in Italy and is a popular tourist destination. A New York law department dean who applauded a 'hate-filled' commencement speech by a graduate who condemned Israel previously created a series of 'anti-racist' courses at another university, it has emerged. Sudha Setty, the dean of law at the City University of New York (CUNY), sat on stage and applauded on May 12 while Fatima Mousa Mohammed delivered her speech. Mohammed, a Yemen-born law student, accused Israelis of 'settler colonialism' and called for 'rage' to tackle the 'fascist NYPD'. Eric Adams, the mayor of New York, condemned Mohammed for her 'negativity and divisiveness'. Mohammed said she chose CUNY because it was one of the 'few legal institutions to recognize that the law is a manifestation of white supremacy that continues to oppress and suppress people in this nation and around the world.' Fatima Mousa Mohammed was chosen by her classmates as the 2023 commencement speaker at CUNY Law's graduation ceremony on May 12. Her remarks about Israel, Palestine, the NYPD and the Armed Forces sparked uproar Sudha Setty, the dean of CUNY law school since 2022, applauded Mohammed's speech Setty is seen sitting on the stage on May 12, as Mohammed takes a bow Mohammed continued: 'The joy and excitement that fills the auditorium: may it be the fuel for the fight against capitalism, racism, imperialism and Zionism around the world. 'Systems of oppression created to feed an empire with a ravenous appetite for destruction and violence. 'Institutions created to intimidate, bully and censor and stifle the voices of those who resist.' Setty was seen applauding Mohammed's remarks - which were condemned by the CUNY board of trustees as 'hate speech', and 'hurtful to the entire CUNY community'. It now emerges that Setty launched a series of 'anti-racism' courses at her previous university, in Massachusetts. Setty worked for 12 years as a faculty member at the Western New England University's legal faculty, then led the department as dean for four additional years. She championed the introduction of the 'Antiracism and Cultural Competency' graduating requirement for the university's students, according to The New York Post. The graduating requirement, which was adopted by the law school in April 2021, included courses that were titled 'Race, Racism & the Law' and 'Business Law from an Antiracist Perspective.' Setty, who took up the role of CUNY dean in the fall of 2022, told the student newspaper she wanted to promote 'more leaders who are doing important social justice work in the law.' Setty said: 'At CUNY, that mission is social justice lawyering and tackling the structural barriers to justice that exist in so many contexts. 'Being part of those endeavors is a gift, and I come to this work with gratitude.' Mohammed's speech marked the second year in a row the school - one of the largest in New York City and one which receives more than half its funding from government - allowed such pro-Palestine, anti-Israel remarks at the graduation ceremony. The 2022 speaker was activist Nerdeen Kiswani, who made similarly fired-up comments. CUNY's Board of Trustees finally denounced the speech in a statement after growing calls for the school to lose its funding. Mohammed, born in Yemen, used her speech to rail against the NYPD, capitalism and Israel The CUNY Board of Trustees today denounced the remarks as hate speech after furious backlash It is yet to explain why the remarks were approved in the first place. 'Free speech is precious, but often messy, and is vital to the foundation of higher education,' the trustees said. 'Hate speech, however, should not be confused with free speech and has no place on our campuses or in our city, our state or our nation.' 'The remarks by a student-selected speaker at the CUNY Law School graduation, unfortunately, fall into the category of hate speech as they were a public expression of hate toward people and communities based on their religion, race or political affiliation. 'The Board of Trustees of the City University of New York condemns such hate speech. 'This speech is particularly unacceptable at a ceremony celebrating the achievements of a wide diversity of graduates, and hurtful to the entire CUNY community, which was founded on the principle of equal access and opportunity.' The House Rules Committee voted 7-6 Tuesday night to advance a bill dealing with the federal debt ceiling to the full House, with two Republicans joining Democrats to oppose. The full House is expected to vote on Wednesday. The committee vote came as House Speaker Kevin McCarthy worked furiously to sell fellow Republicans on the debt ceiling and budget deal he negotiated with President Joe Biden and win approval in time to avert a potentially disastrous U.S. default. Under fire from conservatives, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy worked furiously Tuesday to sell fellow Republicans on the debt ceiling and budget deal he negotiated with President Joe Biden and win approval in time to avert a potentially disastrous U.S. default. Leaders of the hard-right House Freedom Caucus lambasted the compromise as falling well short of the spending cuts they demand, and they vowed to try to halt passage by Congress. A much larger conservative faction, the Republican Study Committee, declined to take a position. Even rank-and-file centrist conservatives were not sure, leaving McCarthy desperately hunting for votes. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy worked furiously to sell fellow Republicans on the debt ceiling and budget deal he negotiated with President Joe Biden and win approval in time to avert a potentially disastrous U.S. default Rep. Scott Perry, R-Pa., left, and Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, right, speak with reporters as member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus talk about the debt limit deal, during a news conference, Tuesday, on Capitol Hill in Washington. Roy joined with Democrats in the vote Rep. Dan Bishop (R-NC), and members of the House Freedom Caucus speak on the debt limit deal outside of the US Capitol in Washington, DC. Republican and Democratic leaders scrambled to secure congressional support for a bill aimed at avoiding a US debt default With tough days ahead, the speaker went into overtime, assembling lawmakers for pizza behind closed doors Tuesday evening at the Capitol, after publicly urging skeptical GOP colleagues to 'look at where the victories are.' Earlier, he said on Fox News that 'Theres nothing in the bill for' Democrats - hardly a helpful statement for Biden. In one late development, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said the spending restrictions in the package would reduce deficits by $1.5 trillion over the decade, a top goal for the Republicans trying to curb the debt load. But in a surprise that could further erode Republican support, the GOP's drive to impose work requirements on older Americans receiving food stamps ends up boosting spending by $2.1 billion over the time period. That's because the final deal exempted veterans and homeless people, expanding the food stamp rolls by some 78,000 people monthly, the CBO said. McCarthy brushed past questions about the mounting opposition, saying 'everybody is elected' to have their own vote. Quick approval by both the House and Senate would ensure government checks will continue to go out to Social Security recipients, veterans and others, and prevent financial upheaval worldwide by allowing Treasury to keep paying U.S. debts. Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., left, wearing a pin simulating the increasing U.S. National Debt, joined at right by Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., both members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, whispers to Norman as the House Rules Committee House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith, R-Mo., testifies as the House Rules Committee prepared the debt limit bill, The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, for a vote on the floor, at the Capitol in Washington on Tuesday. He is joined at right by Rep. Mike Thompson, D-Calif., Rep. Ron Estes, R-Kan., and Rep. Brendan Boyle, D-Pa House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said it was up to McCarthy to turn out votes from some two-thirds of the Republican majority, a high bar the speaker may not be able to reach The deal as detailed in the 99-page bill would restrict spending over the next two years, but it includes environmental policy changes and expanded work requirements for some older food aid recipients that Democrats strongly oppose. Biden was speaking directly to lawmakers, making more than 100 one-on-one calls, the White House said. Top administration officials are heading to Capitol Hill to brief Democrats privately ahead of Wednesdays planned vote. With few lawmakers expected to be fully satisfied, Biden and McCarthy are counting on pulling majority support from the political center, a rarity in divided Washington, to prevent a federal default. Some 218 votes are needed for passage in the 435-member House. One sign of the discontent emerged from the typically partisan House Rules Committee that voted 7-6 to advance the bill to the full House, with two Republicans joining Democrats to oppose. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said it was up to McCarthy to turn out votes from some two-thirds of the Republican majority, a high bar the speaker may not be able to reach. Still, Jeffries said the Democrats would do their part to avoid failure. 'It is my expectation that House Republicans would keep their promise and deliver at least 150 votes as it relates to an agreement that they themselves negotiated,' Jeffries said. 'Democrats will make sure that the country does not default.' President Joe Biden departs after placing flowers at Veterans Memorial Park at the Delaware Memorial Bridge in New Castle, Delaware on Tuesday Office of Management and Budget director Shalanda Young speaks during the daily briefing at the White House in Washington on Tuesday McCarthy could expect no help from the far right. 'This deal fails, fails completely, and thats why these members and others will be absolutely opposed to the deal,' Rep. Scott Perry, R-Pa., the chairman of the Freedom Caucus, said, flanked by others outside the Capitol. 'We will do everything in our power to stop it.' Ominously, the conservatives warned of potentially trying to oust McCarthy over the compromise. 'Theres going to be a reckoning,' said Rep. Chip Roy of Texas. Despite the late-night meeting at the Capitol , Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., said after the 'healthy debate' she was still a no. Liberal Democrats decried the new work requirements for older Americans, those 50-54, in the food aid program. And some Democratic lawmakers were leading an effort against a surprise provision to greenlight a controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline natural gas project through Appalachia. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said she appreciated that Biden was able to minimize the 'extreme demands' Republicans made on spending, but she raised serious concerns about the food stamps and other environmental policy changes. She also had this warning for McCarthy: 'He got us here and its on him to deliver the votes.' Wall Street was taking a wait-and-see approach. Stock prices were mixed in Tuesday's trading. U.S. markets had been closed when the deal was struck over the weekend. Overall, the package is a tradeoff that would impose some federal spending reductions for the next two years along with a suspension of the debt limit into January 2025, pushing the volatile political issue past the next presidential election. Raising the debt limit, now $31.4 trillion, would allow Treasury to continue borrowing to pay the nations already incurred bills. Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., left, speaks next to Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, both members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, as the House Rules Committee meets to prepare the debt limit bill, The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, for a vote on the floor U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) speaks to reporters about the debt limit at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. House Freedom Caucus memebers (L-R) Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX), Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) and Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) announce they would oppose the deal to raise the debt limit Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, a member of the House Rules Committee, joins other lawmakers from the conservative House Freedom Caucus at a news conference to voice their objections to the debt limit deal reached by Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy and President Joe Biden All told, it would hold spending essentially flat for the coming year, while allowing increases for military and veterans accounts. It would cap growth at 1% for 2025. Policy issues were raising the most objections. Questions were also being raised about the unexpected provision that essentially would give congressional approval to the Mountain Valley Pipeline, a natural gas project important to Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., that many Democrats and others oppose as unhelpful in fighting climate change. The top Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee, Rep. Raul Grijalva of Arizona, said including the pipeline provision was 'disturbing and profoundly disappointing.' But Manchin on Tuesday touted the pipeline project as something 'we know we need.' The House aims to vote Wednesday and send the bill to the Senate, where Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Republican leader McConnell are working for passage by week's end. President Joe Biden and US First Lady Jill Biden walk on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington President Joe Biden and first lady Dr. Jill Biden walk to the White House from Marine One in Washington, D.C. Schumer called the bill a 'sensible compromise.' McConnell said McCarthy 'deserves our thanks.' Senators, who have remained largely on the sidelines during much of the negotiations between the president and the House speaker, began inserting themselves more forcefully into the debate. Some senators are insisting on amendments to reshape the package from both the left and right flanks. That could require time-consuming debates that delay final approval of the deal. For one, Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia planned to file an amendment to remove the pipeline provision. But making any changes to the package at this stage seemed unlikely with so little time to spare. Congress and the White House are racing to meet the Monday deadline now less than a week away. That's when Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said the U.S. would run short of cash and face an unprecedented debt default without action. A default would almost certainly harm the U.S. economy and spill around the globe, as the world's reliance on the stability of the American dollar and the country's leadership fell into question. An ER doctor and father of eight who vanished before his shift just three days after proposing to his girlfriend has been found dead in Arkansas, his brother has confirmed. Dr. John Forsyth, 49, was reported missing May 21 when he failed to show up for his 7pm shift at the Mercy Hospital in Cassville. He last spoke to his fiancee in text messages at around 7am that same day. After over a week of trying to locate him, Richard Forsyth has revealed that authorities called the family Tuesday night to say his brother was found dead in northwest Arkansas. Richard, who is desperately searching for more details from detectives over his brother's tragic death, told Fox News: 'We're in shock. I suspect foul play. He wouldn't miss a shift even if his eyeballs were hanging out of their sockets. He's punctual in the extreme. It was an immediate red flag.' The last person to hear from John, who launched a cryptocurrency with his brother, is thought to have been his fiancee, according to Cassville Police Det. Stuart Lombard. Dr. John Forsyth (pictured), who vanished before his shift just three days after proposing to his girlfriend, has been found dead in Arkansas Dr. John Forsyth, 49, was reported missing (pictured) May 21 but his brother confirmed that his body has been found in Arkansas John's younger brother Richard said it was clear something was wrong when he missed his 7pm shift at Mercy Hospital (pictured) The couple, who got engaged days after John had finalized his divorce, were texting at around 7am when the doctor told his fiancee that he had finished a shift and said he would see her 'a bit later'. Tragically, he stopped responding after that. Authorities later located his black Infiniti sedan abandoned at the Cassville Aquatic Park in the Ozarks. The car keys were inside, along with John's wallet, passport and briefcase. A further search revealed that two cell phones were left behind in John's luxury RV that he stayed in outside the hospital. But there was no sign of the doctor. 'It doesn't seem like a person who left with a plan,' Richard said earlier Tuesday. 'Right now, we really don't have any breaks in the case. Im confused, and Im worried. And I dont like this one bit.' Previously in an appeal for help, Richard had told The Daily Beast it was 'very uncharacteristic that the RV was found unlocked with cellphones inside. Richard also told the outlet that security footage showed his brother's Infiniti pulling into the aquatic park parking lot, when a white SUV arrives and parks near him. 'It leaves a few minutes later and [John] is seen walking around maybe 10 to 15 minutes after that,' Richard said cops told him. 'And then he walks away from his car.' The last person to hear from John (pictured), who launched a cryptocurrency with his brother, is thought to have been his fiancee John's Infiniti (pictured) was later found by police at the park in a 'in a very hidden location, in a place where it seems like cars are not supposed to go,' his brother Richard said The car was found in an area that was partially hidden by a fence and shrubs John's brother said security footage showed his Infiniti pulling into the aquatic park parking lot, when a white SUV later arrives and parks near him The Infiniti was later found by police at the park in a 'in a very hidden location, in a place where it seems like cars are not supposed to go,' Richard said. Several law enforcement agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, searched about a nine-mile radius around the park using people, dogs and drones. John's family set up a Facebook page seeking information. 'My brother has now been missing for week. Im grieving, Im afraid, and it feels like the world has tipped into sheer chaos,' his sister, Tiffany Andelin, wrote Monday. The last time Richard saw his brother was a few days before he went missing. 'We had dinner Wednesday before he disappeared, and we sat and talked for three hours,' he said. 'I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future.' John's family had created a Facebook page urging the public to share any tips or information that may have to bring them closer to finding him Phone and email messages left Tuesday with Cassville police were not immediately returned. Police have said there were no signs of foul play. Richard said his brother had been at the Cassville hospital for about 15 years. He described John as a doting father, family physician and part-time math nerd. 'He really cared about his patients,' Richard said, adding that his brother stayed in his RV near the hospital when he was on-call. 'And he loved his kids.' Accused of threatening Ms Higgins, her fiance, and their dog A man accused of making death threats on social media against former political staffer Brittany Higgins, her fiance David Sharaz and their dog Kingston has fronted court. David William Wonnocott was charged after police received information about alleged threats of violence made through a social media platform. The 49-year-old appeared in Tweed Heads Local Court, in northern NSW, on Wednesday for the first time since his arrest in April. According to his bail conditions, Wonnocott is not allowed to contact Ms Higgins or Mr Sharaz, except through a lawyer. He is charged with one count of using a carriage service to threaten to kill on April 11 last year and one count of using a carriage service to menace, harass or offend between July 2022 and February this year. The Banora Point man is accused of using social media like Facebook and Instagram 'in such a way that reasonable persons would regard that use as being menacing, harassing or offensive', court documents state. David William Wonnocott, 49, is pictured outside Tweed Heads Local Court on Wednesday Wonnocott is also facing a separate charge of using a carriage service to menace, harass or offend on January 9. His bail conditions in relation to that charge state he cannot be with or contact NSW MP Alexander Greenwich except through a lawyer. Another condition banned the 49-year-old from attending Mardi Gras Sydney or being in Sydney CBD on February 25 and requiring him to comply with a curfew between 4pm on 11.30pm on the day of the Mardi Gras. NSW Police said in April detectives from the Terrorism Investigation Squad began investigating in February 'after receiving information about threats of violence made through a social media platform in relation to participants of a mass gathering'. They did not name the target of numerous online threats. Ms Higgins has received a barrage of abuse on social media after going public with allegations that she was raped by a colleague in Parliament House in 2019 when she was working for Liberal Senator Linda Reynolds. 'Detectives uncovered a total of 49 messages with similar threats or offensive content sent from a number of accounts, which were believed to be linked,' police said in April 'One of the accounts was also linked to messages sent on social media to a man in the ACT, allegedly threatening to kill the man, his partner, and their pet dog.' Court documents state Wonnocott's criminal history mainly relates to intimidation and threats towards members of minority groups using social media. Police have records of his posts, device data and victim impact statements in relation to the threats and intimidation. Wonnocott is accused of making death threats on social media against Brittany Higgins, her fiance David Sharaz (pictured together) and their dog 'It is the police view that he would be in contact with far right wing thinking groups with radical views that practice and endorse violence towards members of specific minority groups,' the documents state. In court, Magistrate Geoff Dunlevy said a plea of guilty had been entered in relation to the single charge relating to Mr Greenwich. Mr Dunlevy said the matters against Wonnocott would proceed on indictment with the Commonwealth DPP not consenting to summary jurisdiction. He ordered a brief of evidence by July 12 and a mention in the same court on July 24. Wonnocott is excused from appearing in court that day if legally represented. Outside court, Wonnocott said he did not know Ms Higgins or Mr Sharaz. Asked what he was going to do in future, he replied with a smile: 'Behave.' In 2021 former Liberal Party staffer Bruce Lehrmann was charged with the sexual assault of Ms Higgins and pleaded not guilty. The trial in the ACT Supreme Court trial last October was derailed due to juror misconduct. The charges against him were later dropped because of concerns about the impact a second trial would have on Ms Higgins' mental health. Mr Lehrmann denies the allegation he raped Ms Higgins. At least three young children across America were killed after being left alone in hot cars in the space of five days. The youngest was just 11 months old when she was left alone in a car by her parents while they were attending church in Palm Bay, Florida, Sunday. A 1-year-old was also left inside a vehicle at a hospital in Puyallup, Washington, where his foster mother was working, and a 4-year-old boy who was found in an unlocked parked car outside his home in Houston. The tragedies bring the total number of child hot-car deaths to six double the number at the same time last year, according to Jan Null, a California meteorologist who tracks such fatalities. Experts say the situation is only expected to get worse amid hotter-than-average temperatures this summer. At least three young children across America were killed after being left alone in hot cars in recent days The tragedies bring the total number of child hot-car deaths to six double the number at the same time last year Police in Puyallup, Washington, located just southeast of Tacoma, said they are investigating the death of a 1-year-old who was left in a vehicle parked outside the MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital, where the child's foster mother worked. The woman discovered the child at around 5pm on May 24 after about nine hours, Police Capt. Don Bourbon said. She immediately rushed the child to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead. Authorities have suggested that the woman made a tragic mistake, saying the foster mom was distracted enough that morning to forget that the child was with her as temperatures reached 77 degrees. 'It's horrifying not only to the family but anyone who's involved in a child's death,' Bourbon told KING 5 News. A few days later, in Houston, Texas, a 4-year-old boy was found in an unlocked parked car with a 2-year-old girl outside his home. Police said the children were playing outside of their home, and entered the car at some point. It is unclear how long the children were inside the vehicle as temperatures reached 88 degrees, but at some point the family members went searching for the kids. They found the boy unconscious in the car at around 4.30pm Friday, and rushed both children to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The 2-year-old girl was expected to survive. Authorities in Houston, Texas say a 4-year-old boy and a 2-year-old girl were found in an unlocked parked car outside their home Friday night It is unclear how the children got into the car, or how long they were inside while temperatures reached 88 degrees Then on Sunday, an 11-month-old was discovered unresponsive outside the Olives Evangelical Baptist Church in Palm Bay, a city on Florida's Atlantic coast. Police say the infant had spent three hours unsupervised in the car while her parents attended church services. High temperatures in the area were at or around the mid-80s. The child was then rushed to Palm Bay Community Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. 'This is an unfortunate incident,' Palm Bay Police Chief Mario Augello said in a statement, 'and our condolences and prayers go out to the family. It is unclear whether the parents in the Houston or Palm Bay incidents will face charges. A 1-year-old in Puyallup, Washington was left in a vehicle parked outside the MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital, where his foster mother worked In Palm Bay, Florida, an 11-month-old girl died after she was left inside the car while her parents attended church services The fatalities have boosted the number of hot-car-related deaths this year, after numbers fell during the pandemic when more and more parents were able to work from home. In 2020, just 25 children died in hot cars, and in 2021, that number decreased to 23, according to data from the United States Department of Transportation. Both those figures are less than half that for 2019, when 53 children died in hot cars. Last year, NBC News reports, 33 deaths were reported. Still, hot car deaths by heatstroke is the leading cause of non-crash vehicle deaths for children under 14, according to the federal Transportation Department. Officials say rapidly rising temperatures can cause heat stroke to children who are left in cars, where temperatures can rise by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes. Children's core temperatures also rise three to five times faster than adults, and heat stroke can occur when a body temperature reaches 104 degrees. Death can occur at 107 degrees. Meteorologists are now warning that the situation may only get more dire as the summer approaches. The organization Kids and Car Safety has deemed the period from late May through the end of the summer 'hot car death season' and says the transition to a new season can bring new routines that distract parents. 'A change in the normal daily routine and fatigue are the most common contributing factors for a child being unknowingly left behind in a vehicle,' the organization said in a statement on Tuesday. And to make matters worse, the US Climate Prediction Center has warned that much of the nation will experience hotter-than-average temperatures through the end of August especially in the Pacific Northwest, Texas and Florida. Experts say the best way to prevent leaving a child in the car is to develop routines that always take children into account, no matter if they are in school or overseas. Null specifically recommends placing a teddy bear on the front passenger seat when children are present. Others say drivers should place items like briefcases or bagged lunches in the backseat of their car so they will always have to look back there. Penny Wong has been blasted for calling out Uganda and its anti-homosexuality bill while remaining silent on controversial issues affecting Australia's other major trading partners. The Foreign Minister wrote a scathing post on Twitter on Tuesday slamming Uganda for introducing the controversial bill. 'Australia is deeply trouble by Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Bill 2023,' the post read. 'It is a shocking reversal of human rights, a grave threat to lives and risks decades of health and development progress. 'Australia stands with the people of Uganda, including the LGTBQIA+ community'. Uganda's 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Bill imposes a punishment of life imprisonment for same-sex sexual acts, up to 10 years in jail for attempted same-sex sexual acts and the death penalty for 'aggravated homosexuality'. Penny Wong (pictured) has sparked outrage over a tweet about gay rights in Uganda, with the Foreign Minister attacked from all sides, including over her ethnicity and sexuality Foreign Minister Penny Wong's tweet about Uganda (pictured) has been widely condemned Ms Wong's post drew a raft of backlash with social media users questioning why Ms Wong remained quiet on human rights issues affecting other countries. The Foreign Minister and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese were noticeably silent on India's human rights record when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Sydney last week. 'What about when you invited modi here whilst india has one of the worst human rights records in the world for non hindus,' a poster wrote. 'You literally invited him and done whatever he said for the sake of trade deals.' Since Mr Modi came to power in 2014, India has fallen from 27th to 46th in The Economist magazine's global democracy index and is considered a 'flawed democracy'. It has also been criticised for religious discrimination against Muslims and a lack of press freedom, which came to a head with a BBC documentary critical of Mr Modi was blocked earlier this year. Other outraged social media users took aim at Ms Wong saying Australia had its own problems that needed to be addressed. 'We have our own problems here. If you are so concerned for Uganda, please make the trip over and don't bother returning,' one wrote. Another wrote that if Australia 'is so against anti-LGBTQIA sentiment, why did Labor let Posie Parker into the country?' This was a reference to British anti-trans activist Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull - also known as Posie Parker - who held a 'Let Women Speak' rally in Melbourne in March. 'Their country their business,' another poster wrote. 'Why don't you go after Qatar, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia in the same manner.' Other posters questioned why Ms Wong didn't stop British anti-trans activist Poies Parker, also known as Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull, from coming to Australia in March The deepest criticism was over the welcome mat Australia laid out for Mr Modi, who Mr Albanese called 'the boss' when introducing him onstage in Sydney. 'You're similarly troubled by the prevailing attitudes of old mates Turkey and India, I presume,' a poster asked. 'You can tell Modi and (Turkey's president Recep Tayyip) Erdogan have nothing to do with Uganda since you are hypocritically calling out this and not those two because of trade deals/business etc,' wrote another. Sunrise presenter David Koch tried to goad Mr Albanese into a comment on Mr Modi the morning after he appeared with the Indian PM before a 20,000 crowd in Sydney last Tuesday. 'He's sort of reduced press freedoms, he discriminates against minorities, he's accused of watering down democracy,' Koch said. 'He seems a bit of a tyrant.' But Mr Albanese would not be drawn into criticising Mr Modi by Koch or anyone else who tried. He said it was not up to him to publically comment 'on some of the internal politics in India which, as a democracy, has a range of views'. Ms Wong has also previously expressed similar opinions, saying 'We live in a region of the world where most people don't share our views and values.' After meetings in India in March she said Australian concerns about attacks on media freedom and violence against minorities in India had been raised privately. 'You would anticipate in our engagement with all countries that those values form part of how we engage,' she said. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured right with his partner Jodie Haydon) has been slammed for not publically criticising India's human rights record Extraordinary vision has emerged of a massive blaze that ripped through an inner-city family home and quickly spread to a neighbouring property, forcing terrified residents to flee. An investigation has been launched into the fire in Brisbane's West End which broke out shortly before 4am on Wednesday morning and destroyed the residence. Dozens of firefighters battled the inferno for two hours before it was extinguished around 6am. Police have subsequently declared the site a crime scene. Dramatic bodycam vision released by Queensland Police shows officers rushing to the Archibald Street scene where the house was already fully engulfed in flames. Police arrived on the scene to find the inner-city Brisbane home engulfed in flames 'No one's in the house? What about the house up the road?' a female officer asks a resident standing in the middle of the street. 'They're evacuating?' The vision shows police banging on the door of a neighbouring home at risk of being engulfed by the intense flames. 'Hello hello, police!' the officer yelled. 'All clear,' a man eventually called out. The vision also shows fire trucks arriving on scene with sirens blaring and evacuated residents standing in the street. The house was destroyed. No one was home at the time. It took eights crews of firefighters two hours to extinguish the early morning blaze The West End home engulfed in flames was destroyed. No one was home at the time A neighbouring property also sustained extensive damage. No injuries were reported. Investigators spent Wednesday morning examining the crime scene. Fire crews also remained to dampen hot spots and conduct atmospheric testing at the damaged neighbouring property for residents to collect possessions. The blaze is being treated as suspicious. Investigations into what sparked the massive blaze continue. Anyone with information or CCTV or dashcam vision is urged to contact PoliceLink or Crime Stoppers. Investigations into the suspicious blaze (pictured on Wednesday) continue A state park in Wyoming has beaten the odds to welcome the birth of an ultra rare white bison. Staff at Bear River State Park saw a 'little white ball of fluff' when the one-in-ten-million calf was born on May 16. It weighs just 30 pounds - half the size of the average newborn. The calf was born to one of the park's two white bison heifers, which arrived in 2021, and it is the first to be born there. The sex of the calf is still unknown as getting too close to the animal would cause the herd stress. White bison are incredibly rare throughout the US and are considered sacred in many Native American tribes. A state park in Wyoming has beaten the odds to welcome the birth of an ultra rare white bison Staff at Bear River State Park saw a 'little white ball of fluff' when the calf was born on May 16 weighing just 30 pounds- which is half of that of other newborns The calf was born at around 7am and it was up and feeding within 15 minutes and is healthy despite its small weight. It was born to a white buffalo called Wyoming Hope and staff suspect the father is a bull named Snort. Park superintendent Tyfani Sager said: 'It was up and suckling on mom within 15 minutes after it was born.' She added that it sleeps, feeds and runs around in circles in a manner often seen in cats and dogs called the 'zoomies'. The white buffalo at Bear River contain Charolais cattle DNA which is what gives them their snowy fur. This feature is rare but not as unusual as albino bison which only occur in around one in 10 million births. 'Most of the bison you find anymore have some cattle genetics,' Sager told Cowboy State Daily. 'They were nearly hunted to extinction by the late 1800s. People got concerned about extinction and cattle inbreeding was used. A white bison birth is still fairly rare.' White bison are incredibly rare throughout the US and are considered sacred in many Native American tribes The white buffalo at Bear River contain Charolais cattle DNA which is what gives them their snowy fur A white buffalo calf is 'the most sacred living thing on Earth' to Native American tribes including Sioux, Cherokee, Navajo, Lakota and Dakota, according to the National Parks Service. 'Some American Indians say the birth of a white calf is an omen because the birth takes place in the most unexpected places and often happens among the poorest of people,' it said. 'The birth is sacred within the American Indian communities, because it brings a sense of hope and is a sign that good times are about to happen.' There has been a huge rise in the number of visitors to the park since the birth of the white buffalo. It usually sees around 1,000 visitors a day but this has increased by 30 per cent as people try to get a glimpse of the rare calf. Tatiana 'Tania' Dokhotaru sent the above footage to friends in the days before she was found dead in her Liverpool unit Disturbing video has emerged of a mother with a black eye in the days before she was found dead inside her high-rise apartment and her boyfriend was charged with assaulting her. Footage exclusively obtained by Daily Mail Australia shows a teary Tatiana 'Tania' Dokhotaru, 34, panning the camera across her face to show friends her swollen and bruised left eye. The mother sent the clip of her facial injuries to loved ones last week. Just days later, her body was discovered inside her unit in Liverpool, Sydney's south-west, about 8pm on Saturday. Her body was found almost 24 hours after she frantically called police alleging her partner Danny Zayat, 28, was 'bashing' her. Zayat has since been charged with more than a dozen domestic-violence related offences which allegedly occurred prior to her death - including choking and breaching an AVO. He was refused bail at court on Monday. No charges have been laid relating to Ms Dokhotaru's death and he is assisting detectives with their inquiries. Daily Mail Australia understands police are investigating the black-eye footage as part of their probe into the circumstances surrounding the lead-up to Ms Dokhotaru's tragic death. The clip emerged as cracks emerged in the couple's friendship circle as they grapple with Ms Dokhotaru's death and Zayat's arrest. Ms Dokhotaru is pictured with her former partner Danny Zayat in early 2021 While Ms Dokhotaru's friends plead for answers about her final hours, Zayat's mates have worked to have his social media accounts shutdown in order to 'protect him' from seeing reams of comments left on his posts by trolls. According to a police fact sheet tendered in court, Ms Dokhotaru invited Zayat to her flat, where she lived with their young son, on Friday night - where the couple allegedly began arguing about 11.40pm. She called triple-zero, but the officers who arrived at the 297-unit complex some three hours later left when they could not pinpoint her apartment in the enormous tower. Police have stated the call for help did not include her complete address. She was then found dead on Saturday by officers responding to a second welfare call by a neighbour who heard someone screaming 'help me!'. Zayat was arrested at the scene. He later told the police he left the house around midnight Friday following an argument about her taking drugs, but returned the following day when he could not contact her. A friends of Ms Dokhotaru has told Daily Mail Australia rumours are circulating around their social network that she had been using tramadol - a strong opioid painkiller. Zayat's lawyer, high-profile barrister Talal Krayem, declined to comment on whether drug use would form part of the defense's case when contacted by Daily Mail Australia on Wednesday. The friend said the family is seeking 'justice' for Ms Dokhotaru's son, who now 'doesn't have a mother'. 'This family needs justice for her poor little boy. Ms Dokhotaru was found dead inside the Liverpool apartment block on Saturday - almost 24 hours after begging triple-0 for help One of Zayat's associates urged his friends to assist in having the concrete business owner's social media pages shutdown Meanwhile, tradesman Hakan Wolf, who does work for Zayat's concreting business, fired up his Instagram account on Wednesday morning to plead with the father-of-one's supporters to help get his social media pages shutdown. 'To my dear friends, I never ask anything of you. But right now I'm going to ask you a huge favour,' he wrote. 'Can you please report Danny's account as a scam so that Instagram can delete his page on him. We don't want him seeing all the comments when he gets out.' Mr Wolf also claimed 'Danny is innocent' and warned that media outlets would be 'sued something severe.. mark my words' when Zayat is no longer in custody. Tatiana Dokhotaru (right) is pictured with her mother Olga Dokhotaru (left) The appeal appeared to work - with Zayat's Facebook and Instagram accounts no longer viewable. Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in online for Ms Dokhotaru - a Russian national who migrated to Australia around a decade ago - as she is remembered as a 'beautiful and hardworking' mum. On Tuesday, her heartbroken parents Olga Dokhotaru and Dennis Thievin spoke out to slam the police response to their daughter's call - which is now the subject of a critical incident investigation. 'Had they responded in a timely manner, Tania may be alive today,' Mr Thieven told Seven News. 'Surely it could have been done better than it was.' Ms Dokhotaru added: '[She was] a happy, strong woman'. 'I'm lost, big timeI never, never would expect to hear news (of her death).' Zayat is next due to face court on Friday. According to a police fact sheet tendered in court, Ms Dokhotaru (pictured) invited Zayat to her flat, where she lived with their young son, on Friday night - where the couple allegedly began arguing about 11.40pm The mother of the woman shot and killed by Capitol Police on during the January 6 riot was arrested on Tuesday night following a violent confrontation with a protester outside the Washington DC prison where the rioters are being held. Micki Witthoeft's daughter Ashli Babbitt died inside the Capitol, and her mother has since become a passionate defender of those trying to overthrow the 2020 election. Witthoeft, 58, was part of a group of right-wing protesters who marched on Monday to the prison where many of the rioters are being held. She scuffled with a counter-protester, and on Tuesday was arrested and charged with assault. Ashli Babbitt's mother, in the white t-shirt, is seen on Monday scuffling with a protester outside the DC prison. On Tuesday, she was arrested and charged with assault Micki Witthoeft, mother of Ashli Babbitt, who was fatally shot after breaching the US Capitol, is seen on May 18 at a hearing of the House Judiciary Committee Witthoeft is pictured on Monday leading a march in her daughter's memory through DC A police officer stands guard on Tuesday as Witthoeft is arrested for assault The drama began on Memorial Day, when Witthoeft and other sympathizers marched on the Central Detention Facility in Southeast DC. Witthoeft, from Spring Valley, California, can be seen marching close to Brianne Chapman, who goes by the name Anarchy Princess and live-streamed the event. Chapman had previously, in October, live-streamed herself stamping on flowers outside the Capitol which were placed to mark Babbitt's birthday. On Monday, Chapman yelled: 'F*** Ashli Babbitt!' As the group marched through DC, Chapman shouted with a megaphone: 'Terrorists coming through your neighborhood!' She continued: 'Ashli Babbitt's mom, domestic terrorist! Nazis incoming! Insurrectionist losers!' Chapman stuck her middle finger up at Witthoeft. Brianne Chapman, who goes by the name 'Anarchy Princess', can be seen in a green t-shirt walking in front of Witthoeft, calling her a 'terrorist' and a 'Nazi' Witthoeft can be seen shoving Chapman, who is still live-streaming the encounter Chapman marches ahead, towards the prison, still live-streaming Witthoeft can be seen with Chapman's megaphone in her hand Chapman chases after Witthoeft, wanting to get her megaphone back Witthoeft smashed the megaphone into the ground, leaving Chapman - still filming - to pick it up Witthoeft then marched up to Chapman, who was on the other side of the road, and grabbed her megaphone, which was playing siren sounds. Witthoeft hurled the megaphone on to the ground, where parts of it seemed to break off. Tommy Tatum, a prominent participant in the January 6 defendants' movement, confronted Chapman, and the pair briefly squared off. A police officer then intervened to separate them. Chapman could be heard saying loudly: 'I need to press charges.' On Tuesday, Witthoeft was arrested outside the prison. After she was detained, a group of right-wing protesters stood near the police vehicle, chanting: 'Ashli Babbitt! Ashli Babbitt!' Witthoeft was released several hours later, according to a Daily Beast reporter on scene, and returned to the right-wing protest area outside of the jail, called 'freedom corner.' 'I did clonk my head getting in the paddy wagon,' she told a small crowd of supporters. 'The MPD department on M Street has a serious rat problem.' Asked about the booking process, Witthoeft said: 'It really wasn't that bad.' She admitted hitting Chapman, adding: 'There's really no denying it.' Tommy Tatum, a prominent participant in the January 6 defendants' movement, is seen confronting Chapman before police separated them A DC police officer intervened to separate Chapman and Tatum Ashli Babbitt, a fanatical Trump supporter, was shot and killed by Capitol Police on January 6, 2021 as she attempted to storm the Capitol in protest at the 2020 election results Hugh Carew, a spokesman for D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, confirmed Witthoeft's arrest. '58-year-old Michelle Witthoeft, of Spring Valley, CA, was arrested and charged with Simple Assault and Destruction of Property,' he said. Tuesday's arrest is not Witthoeft's first. She was taken into custody for blocking traffic at a January 6 remembrance event earlier this year, with police also citing the group's lack of permits to hold the event on Capitol grounds. Charges were ultimately dropped. A man accused of making death threats online has been ordered to stay away from former political staffer Brittany Higgins and her fiance. David William Wonnocott, 49, appeared in a northern NSW court on Wednesday for the first time since his April arrest over social media threats of violence. One condition of his bail is not to be with or contact Ms Higgins or her fiance David Sharaz except through a lawyer. Wonnocott is charged with using a carriage service to threaten to kill on April 11, 2022 and using a carriage service to menace, harass or offend between July 2022 and February. The Banora Point man is also facing a separate charge of using a carriage service to menace, harass or offend on January 9. David William Wonnocott, 49, appeared in a northern NSW court on Wednesday for the first time since his April arrest over social media threats of violence One condition of Mr Wonnocott's bail is not to be with or contact Ms Higgins or her fiance David Sharaz (pictured with dog Kingston) except through a lawyer His bail conditions in relation to that charge state he cannot contact or approach NSW MP Alexander Greenwich except through a lawyer. Wonnocott was arrested on the latest charge soon after midnight on February 25, the morning of the Sydney Mardi Gras. He was released on bail with conditions including a ban on attending Mardi Gras or being in the Sydney CBD, and a 4pm to 11.30pm curfew that day. Wonnocott has a criminal history relating mainly to intimidation and threats towards members of minority groups using social media, police said in court documents. 'His posts are hate related towards members of these groups and members of the public.' Police said Wonnocott's threats are considered real and taken seriously. 'There is a serious threat that he may in fact try and carry out a threat of violence in the near future.' Police have records of Wonnocott's posts, device data and victim impact statements in relation to threats and intimidation. 'It is the police view that he would be in contact with far right wing thinking groups with radical views that practice and endorse violence towards members of specific minority groups,' the documents read. A man accused of making death threats online has been ordered to stay away from former political staffer Brittany Higgins and her fiance (pictured withwe Wonnocott has a criminal history relating mainly to intimidation and threats towards members of minority groups using social media, police said in court documents NSW Police said detectives began investigating in February 'after receiving information about threats of violence made through a social media platform in relation to participants of a mass gathering'. 'Detectives uncovered a total of 49 messages with similar threats or offensive content sent from a number of accounts, which were believed to be linked,' police said. 'One of the accounts was also linked to messages sent on social media to a man in the ACT, allegedly threatening to kill the man, his partner, and their pet dog.' The targets were not named. Ms Higgins has received a barrage of abuse on social media after going public with allegations that she was raped by a colleague at Parliament House in 2019 when she was working for a Liberal senator. Wonnocott appeared in Tweed Heads Local Court where Magistrate Geoff Dunlevy said a plea of guilty had been entered in relation to the single charge relating to Mr Greenwich. When asked outside court what he was going to do in future, he replied with a smile: 'behave' Outside court Wonnocott said he did not know Ms Higgins or Mr Sharaz (both pictured) That case is due for mention again in the same court on July 24, when Wonnocott - the sole carer of his elderly parents - does not have to appear if legally represented. Outside court Wonnocott said he did not know Ms Higgins or Mr Sharaz. Asked what he was going to do in future, he replied with a smile: 'behave'. In 2021 former Liberal Party staffer Bruce Lehrmann was charged with sexually assaulting Ms Higgins and pleaded not guilty. A trial in the ACT Supreme Court was derailed due to juror misconduct. The charges against him were later dropped because of concerns about the impact a second trial would have on Ms Higgins' mental health. Mr Lehrmann denies raping Ms Higgins. 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028 Lifeline 13 11 14 beyondblue 1300 22 4636 They are working through the process of removing them Defence initially claimed there was only one device Hundreds of Chinese-made security cameras have been found at a number of defence sites across Australia after the department claimed there was only one. Defence officers revealed they had uncovered 435 spy devices 'of concern' during a senate estimates hearing on Wednesday. These devices were manufactured by Chinese companies Hikvision and Dahua, which are both partly-owned by the Chinese government. Defence are working through a process of removing all surveillance devices from the affected sites. The department said they were only aware of just one system at a single site back in February. Hundreds of Chinese-made security cameras have been found at defence sites across Australia (stock image) However, Defence Minister Richard Marles said he had asked the department to engage in a further audit, 'just to make sure we've not missed any'. 'If there are any, they will be removed,' he said at the time. A week later the media reported that 42 devices had been found. Shadow Cyber Security Minister James Paterson grilled defence officials over how many devices were found in the audit during senate estimates. Deputy secretary responsible for security and estate, Celia Perkins, said there had been a significant increase in the number of devices discovered. 'As we did that work, we found additional devices by manufacturers of concern. The total number of devices was 435,' she said. 'We removed as many of them as we could immediately. Sometimes they were in locations where we needed specialists, and in some cases, we needed to leave them on for work health and safety or other reasons.' She said defence was working on removing the devices and was on track to have them all taken out by June 30. Senator Paterson said he found the substantial increase 'extraordinary'. In response, Ms Perkins said the defence estate, which comprised lower risk sites like coffee points and daycare centres, was 'a vast and complex thing'. Shadow Cyber Security Minister James Paterson (pictured) questioned defence officials over how many Chinese-made spy devices were found at defence sites at senate estimates on Wednesday Deputy secretary responsible for security and estate, Celia Perkins, said the department was in the process of removing the devices (stock image) A six-month audit of every Commonwealth department by Mr Paterson had led to the discovery of hundreds of surveillance cameras and devices in government buildings and sites in almost every department. The audit was sparked after the Department of Home Affairs was unable to answer how many surveillance units were installed within government buildings. Senator Paterson called on the government to tear out all cameras and equipment immediately following the conclusion of the audit. 'This presents a unique national security risk to Australia,' he said. 'With Hikvision and Dahua devices fitted across the Australian government, including at the heart of our national intelligence community, the companies and their employees may be forced to provide the Chinese government with their 24-hour access to valuable surveillance data.' 'We urgently need a plan from the Albanese government to rip every one of these devices out of Australian government departments and agencies.' The Labor Health Minister's wife is employed by a firm set to benefit from a $23.4million investment into cyber security. Mark Butler is a member of the expenditure review committee, along with the Prime Minister, Treasurer, and high-ranking Labor ministers, tasked with awarding funding in the 2023-2024 Budget. Questions have been raised about a contract handed out by the group to the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA), to help protect companies against cyber threats. The program lists company 89 Degrees East as a 'founding partner', and COSBOA describes the firm as a 'delivery partner'. Mr Butler's wife, journalist Daniela Ritorto, is listed as a 'senior consultant' currently on maternity leave on the 89 Degrees East's website. Her role with the company is also declared on Mr Butler's register of interests. Daily Mail Australia understands the connection between the two businesses - which is readily available online - was not made clear during any expenditure review committee discussions about the funding. As such, Mr Butler was never aware of, or concerned about, any potential conflict of interest. Mr Butler and his wife married in 2021 after three years of dating 89 Degrees East was posting about its involvement with the project as early as January, and is listed on the Cyber Wardens website as a 'founding partner' A spokesperson from Mr Butler's office said on Wednesday evening: 'When the measure in question was brought before the ERC, there was no mention of the involvement or potential involvement of 89 Degrees East. 'The Minister had nothing to declare.' 89 Degrees East was posting about its involvement with the project as early as January, and is listed on the Cyber Wardens website as a 'founding partner'. The Budget announcing the cash funding was on May 9. During Senate Estimates on Tuesday night, Finance Minister Katy Gallagher said the contract awarded to COSBOA was done in consultation with Labor ministers. She said: 'It was a decision of government to fund this', before adding it was 'part of the standard Budget process'. In justifying the decision to award the funding, Senator Gallagher described COSBOA as 'the peak small business group'. 'They are the obvious choice to run a program like this, but there is a process to go through around the particulars of this grant. That is still to be finalised.' Daily Mail Australia understands the connection between the two businesses - which is readily available online - was not made clear during any expenditure review committee discussions about the funding. As such, Mr Butler was never aware of, or concerned about, any potential conflict of interest The Cyber Wardens program will create up to 60,000 jobs in small businesses within three years, roles primarily tasked with preventing cyber scams and attacks. Senator Gallagher was grilled during the hearing about the grant, but stood firm in her conviction that Labor had made the right choice in allocating the money. Australia has been described as a 'hacker's paradise' following breaches to both Optus and Medibank in recent months. As a result, Labor have invested significantly in the cyber protection sphere, with $101.6million allocated over five years across multiple projects. But there are concerns about the decision making process behind the funding in light of 89 Degrees East's ties with both Labor and COSBOA. Mr Butler is a close ally of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who is also a member of the expenditure review committee Ministerial Standards state all official decisions a minister is involved in must be free from bias or 'irrelevant consideration'. 'Ministers must have regard to the pecuniary and other private interests of members of their family, to the extent known to them, as well as their own interests, in considering whether a conflict or apparent conflict between private interests and official duty arises.' Mr Butler is a close ally of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who is also a member of the expenditure review committee. The committee is comprised of some of the most senior ranking members of Government, including; Mr Albanese, Treasurer Jim Chalmers, Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Deputy PM Richard Marles and Finance Minister Katy Gallagher. Mr Butler has served in the House of Representatives since 2007, and was a minister in both the Gillard and Rudd governments before being assigned the Health role under Mr Albanese. He and his wife married in 2021 after three years of dating. A millionaire business executive and his pregnant wife have recalled the 'incredibly scary' moment brazen thieves broke into their home before stealing their luxury car. The desperate manhunt continues for the black 2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS stolen from the driveway of Bondi Sands chief executive Blair James in the Melbourne suburb of Kew around 5am on Wednesday. He and his wife Melanie were sleeping inside when they were woken by the sound of footsteps running down the hallway. The thieves found the car keys and took Melanie's luxury Luis Vuitton handbag and wallet before climbing out of a window and speeding off in the couple's Porsche. 'It sounded like small footsteps, almost like a child running down the hallway,' Mr James told 3AW host Neil Mitchell. Bondi Sands chief executive Blair James and his wife of nine months Melanie were woken by intruders inside their home early Wednesday 'It took a while to cotton on what was happening. We see didn't any trace of how they got in to begin with or where they got out but we eventually found a window. 'It happened pretty quickly. We were in quite a bit of shock obviously as it was happening.' Ms James also detailed the terrifying ordeal in a series of Instagram stories. 'We heard them running down out the hallway and got out of bed, by that time they had jumped out the window and started the car,' Ms James posted. 'Then another car pulled up and people jumped out of the car and into mine and it sped off. 'They also stole my bag with my wallet in it. I hate people.' In another story she wrote: 'It doesn't help being 21 weeks pregnant!' The brazen thieves sped off in the couple's 2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS (pictured) The car - which has the number plates MVA 0 - is yet to be recovered. The model has an estimated worth of more than $200,000. 'I believe Vic police detectives may be able to track the car now so hopefully I get it back in one piece soon,' Ms James posted in an update. Mr James said they were told by police they were hopeful of recovering the car. 'They said it could be one of two motives, firstly being kids wanting to take a nice car for a drive,' Mr James told 3AW. 'They also said they are across syndicates that are recruiting kids to take these cars and potentially look to sell them afterwards and then ship off overseas.' Blair James and his wife (pictured) hope their stolen car can be recovered by police The theft comes a month after the couple announced on social media they were expecting their first child, due in October. Mr James married the love of his life in a lavish ceremony at Italy's Lake Como last August, two years after the wedding was postponed due to the pandemic. Co-founded by Mr James and Shaun Wilson, Bondi Sands recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. The brand was established in 2012 as a homegrown solution to buffing away dead skin and getting a glowy, natural-looking tan finish with ease. It quickly took the international scene by storm and has now diversified into suncare and skincare categories with one product sold every three seconds worldwide. The fake tan brand is stocked in more than 43,000 retailers globally, offering 48 products and holding 60 per cent of the market share in Australia. Clare Nowland (pictured), a dementia sufferer who weighed just 43kg, died in Cooma Hospital in southern NSW at around 7pm on Wednesday, a week after being Tasered The NSW Police Force is rolling out a new model Taser that won't have built-in cameras - just weeks after the death of a 95-year-old woman who a cop blasted with the weapon. Great-grandmother Clare Nowland, who used a walking frame and suffered from dementia, died at Cooma Hospital in southern NSW last Wednesday night after falling over and hitting her head when she was Tasered. She was allegedly Tasered by Senior Constable Kristian White at the Yallambee Lodge aged care facility in the early hours of May 17. The current Taser X26Ps, used by officers throughout the Force, have integrated cameras which are automatically activated when the weapon is used. But police have confirmed this week those Tasers have been 'discontinued' and the new Taser 7 is now being rolled out for officers across the state. 'The manufacturers of the Taser 7 have not included a camera in the unit,' a police spokesperson confirmed. Senior Constable Kristian White, 33, allegedly asked Mrs Nowland, who weighed just 43kg, to 'stop' multiple times when telling her to drop the knife before saying, 'No, bugger it', and deploying his Taser 'Taser 7's can be integrated with body worn vision, and NSWPF is working with companies to develop a holster activation device which will ensure the BWV turns on when the Taser is drawn. 'NSWPF has sufficient BWV units for operational police.' However, that requires police to actively turn on their body worn cameras at the time of an incident. The development was first reported by Sky News. Police were called to Mrs Nowland's nursing home when staff saw her wielding a knife in the early hours of May 17. Mr White, 33, allegedly asked Mrs Nowland yo drop the knife before saying, 'No, bugger it', and deploying his Taser. Mr White has been charged with recklessly causing grievous bodily harm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and common assault. He is expected to fight the charges. The incident is being investigated with footage of the encounter expected to be crucial. The current Taser X26Ps have integrated cameras that are automatically activated when the weapon is used. They have been discontinued by the NSW Police force It is understood a female officer who also responded to the call will not be charged but may face disciplinary action. Mr White is due to appear at Cooma Local Court on Wednesday, July 5, 2023. Of the charges he faces, recklessly causing grievous bodily harm carries a penalty of up to 10 years in jail. Assault occasioning actual bodily harm carries a prison term of up to seven years, while being convicted of common assault could lead to up to two years behind bars. He remains suspended from duty with pay. Nine teenagers have been arrested over the savage beating of three Marines on a California beach over Memorial Day weekend. Orange County officials said four boys and one girl were charged with assault with a deadly weapon on Tuesday and held at juvenile hall. Another four minors were charged with misdemeanor assault and battery, CBS News reported. The Marines were brutally attacked along San Clemente beach, just south of Los Angeles, by a group of up to 40 teenagers at 10pm on Friday after the service members confronted them about setting off fireworks. The incident was caught on video and the men, who sustained minor injuries, refused to be transported to a local hospital in the aftermath. A group of nine teenagers have been arrested over the savage beating of three Marines on a California beach over Memorial Day Weekend Hunter Antonino, one of the Marines, told KCAL the fight began when he told the teens to stop lighting fireworks San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan revealed that deputies have caught the main suspects in the mob of teenagers who launched the attack. He said: 'They think they have the people they are looking for. Not to say that there might not be a few others out there. They feel pretty confident that they have the main perpetrators.' Footage of the incident was used to track down those involved, the mayor added. 'In todays age, youre going to get caught people are going to record it,' Duncan said. 'I hope this serves as a learning lesson for young folks in the community not to let themselves get out of control when something like this happens.' In the roughly minute-long clip posted to Facebook, the Marines were seen trying to walk up the steps outside the Pier Bowl as a group of teenagers shouted at them. As they approached the stairs, a male teen was seen brutally punching the back of one of the Marine's heads. The Marine turned around and charged at the assailant, which led to an all-out brawl, as the teen's friends all jumped in to take swings and kick him. Within seconds the group circled around the two Marines yelling 'Get that f***er' and 'f*** that f***er up,' even using the N-word at one point. And two of the victims were seen curled up on the ground as the group continued to strike them with vicious kicks. The brawl only came to an end after two bystanders, an unknown man and woman, intervened and yelled at the children: 'Stop, what are you doing?' It remains unclear what happened before the video, but Marine Hunter Antonino, told KCAL the fight began when he asked the teens to stop lighting fireworks. Hunter Antonino is seen here with a relative after signing on as a Marine in 2022 Orange County officials said four boys and one girl were charged with assault with a deadly weapon on Tuesday and held at juvenile hall Another four minors were charged with misdemeanor assault and battery, CBS News reported, after the Marines were brutally attacked along San Clemente beach at 10pm on Friday The brawl only ended when two unidentified passersby intervened and yelled at the teenagers The vicious attack began outside the Pier Bowl as the Marines began walking up the steps Antonino said he and his friend were enjoying some rare time off from Camp Pendleton in Oceanside during the Memorial Day weekend when the crowd began setting off the fireworks. A piece of debris then hit him in the face and Antonino said he politely asked them to leave. 'They were lighting off fireworks, they were being belligerent and obnoxious and annoying other people, so I went up to them and told them to stop,' he recounted. But the group followed him back to the pier, at which point Antonino said he and his friend warned the teenagers that they were Marines 'so they would leave, but they didn't.' Orange County officials said the two men seen in the video sustained only minor injuries such as an injury to the hand, scrapes to the knees and soreness to the abdomen, chest and head. Antonino, though, feared he may also suffered a concussion. 'My face still has blood on it,' he said. 'It wasn't cool at all.' Mayor Duncan described the Memorial Day weekend attack as 'tragic.' 'This is San Clemente, Marines are always welcome here, always going to be celebrated, always taken care of, and that is why this is so particularly tragic,' he said. Police in California have found the Tennessee couple who vanished almost one month ago as they traveled west across the country. Nikki Alcaraz and Steven Tyler Stratton, both 33, were found by the Eureka Police Department at 7:15am Tuesday morning after someone called in to report the sighting of a missing person having previously noticed the pair on Monday night. They were found on the 100 block of 4th Street in Eureka, not far from the Oregon border. Alcaraz was seen over the weekend about 150 miles away at a Redding Walmart. Surveillance cameras saw her at an ecoATM as she sold her cellphone for $75. Her boyfriend, Stratton, was also with her at the time they were found by police and was arrested. Missing Tennessee couple, Nikki Alcaraz and Steven Tyler Stratton, both 33, have been found after disappearing almost one month ago. They were found in Redding, California Tuesday The pair seemingly vanished almost one month ago while road tripping from Nashville to Orange County, California The couple were found on the 100 block of 4th Street in Eureka, California, after being spotted a day earlier Eureka Officers found Alcaraz and Stratton inside their black Jeep and the duo cooperated with the police officers. Alcaraz insisted she was fine and did not require any help, while a check by police on Stratton found he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest by law enforcement in Tennessee. Stratton was taken into custody without incident following his failure to appear in court back in Tennessee on a theft-related charge. California investigators have also been in touch with Moriarty, New Mexico, police to inform them Alcaraz is no longer considered to be a missing person. The couple had set out on the open road almost one month ago ago to embark on a cross-country road trip, when things suddenly appeared to take a turn on May 4 in Torrance County, New Mexico. A truck driver witness saw Stratton punch Alcaraz in the face, according to a Torrance County Sheriffs Office report. Stratton told a deputy he had also been hit. Video shows him with blood coming from his mouth and nose. DailyMail.com obtained shocking body camera footage following the fight between the couple. Both - who admitted to cops that they were drunk after drinking shots of Fireball whisky before the fight - are seen on the bodycam footage bloody and bruised. At one point, Alcaraz is seen with a black eye telling the deputy she wants to press charges. The couple were separated and dropped off in separate locations with no charges against either. Shocking bodycam footage showed the mother-of-two showing police multiple bruises after a drunken fight with her boyfriend telling cops she wanted to see his 'a** in jail' In one of the videos, a noticeably distraught Alcaraz was seen standing next to the bystander who called the cops after he saw the mother-of-two being 'slapped' and 'punched in the face.' 'I'm a truck driver, as I was driving by I seen her on the ground and I see that dude over there slap her and punch her in the face,' said the bystander. 'He punched me in the eye,' Alcaraz added. 'How is he related to you,' the responding officer was heard asking Alcaraz, who responds 'We've been together 16 years... we're boyfriend/girlfriend.' When asked if she wants to press charges, Alcaraz nods and answered: 'Yeah' before revealing that she would like to see his 'a** in jail' while holding back tears. 'I just wanted to make sure she was ok,' the bystander is heard saying. Responding officers then ask if the man she is with, later identified as Stratton, is 'on anything' to which Alcaraz responds 'not that I know of no.' 'But I'm done, I want his a** to go to jail, I'm over it,' she repeats. Torrence County Sheriff's officials earlier released an incident report in which it was revealed that Alcaraz could be heard screaming in the background of a 911 call to police during the May 4 incident. The Torrance County Attorney's Office in New Mexico released 10 bodycam videos in the immediate aftermath of the vicious brawl. A witness to the fight is seen, left In one of the videos a noticeably distraught Alcaraz is seen standing next to the bystander who called police after he saw the 33-year-old being 'slapped' and 'punched in the face' Video shows that Alcaraz was heavily bruised with marks on her arms and face while Stratton was also covered in blood streaming from his nose and mouth Following questioning, police released the pair with no charges after separating them and taking them to different locations In the call, the woman, later identified as Alcaraz, could be heard screaming in the background. The police report stated the man, Stratton, was 'standing over her' before he 'punched her in the face.' According to the report by the Torrance County Sheriff's Office obtained by DailyMail.com stated Alcaraz and Stratton were 'intoxicated.' The responding officer said he saw the 2013 Jeep in a small rest area and he noticed red marks on Alcaraz's face and fingerprint marks on both of her arms. He also observed Stratton had 'blood coming from his mouth and nose area.' The responding officer said Alcaraz had said they'd dropped off a friend in Amarillo, Texas, before picking up a bottle of Fireball whisky, which she and Stratton both drank. Alcaraz claimed Stratton had 'started to hit her for no reason,' and when they got to the rest area she jumped out of the vehicle but he 'caught her.' She also claimed to have a bruise on her chest and her back. The report identified the alleged assailant as 'Thomas,' but the sheriff's office confirmed with DailyMail.com that it meant Stratton. Stratton claimed Alcaraz had also hit him, allegedly striking him to the mouth 'for no reason' and that she continued to hit him while they were traveling. He stated, 'Nikki does blackout after drinking liquor' but he 'did not want her to go to jail.' Blood spatter on the passenger side door and blood on the 'running board' had been observed by the deputy and both disputed they'd been driving the vehicle. Neither pressed charges. The pair departed Tennessee in early May in this black Jeep, which was seen in a Redding, California, parking lot Tuesday morning Alcaraz vanished just days after getting into a 'drunken dispute' with her boyfriend was also heard 'screaming on a 911' call made by a bystander Alcaraz was seen on a surveillance camera over the weekend trying to sell her phone at an ecoATM in Redding, California Alcaraz, Stratton and their dog set out on a road trip from Nashville to Southern California and were in an altercation in New Mexico on May 4. A police report filed by the Torrance County Sheriff's Office showed the mother-of-two with a black eye after witnesses said they saw Stratton punch her in the face. Both were then given rides by responding police, with Nikki dropped off in Moriarty, where she called her sister Toni, and a friend met her to stay the night in a motel. But the following day, Alcaraz insisted she needed to find Stratton. Her jeep was located by a license plate reader near Flagstaff, Arizona, on May 8, with Alcaraz messaging her sister to say she was planning to complete her trip. The couple was finally located on Tuesday in a Walmart parking lot in Redding, California. Succession star Jeremy Strong has revealed that the final scene of the iconic HBO show, could have been different. Strong, 44, told Anderson Cooper during an interview on Tuesday night, his first since the show ended, that rather than just have his character sit at the water's edge in New York City's Battery Park, he tried to go into the water. 'I did try and go in the water. One of the incredible things about working on something for seven years... is your instincts for the thing become apart of you and are very alive. Your job is to give the writing heart and a nerve and all that stuff,' Strong said on AC360. The final scene of the show Strong's character, Kendall Roy, coming to terms with the fact that he will never inherit his father's media empire after a board vote went against him. Strong went on to say that it was not for him to say how the show was going to end. 'It's for Jesse Armstrong, there but for the grace of him went all of us this whole time, and his writing, and the depth of it, and his insight into human nature, he feels that people are doomed to repeat themselves,' the Boston native said. Succession star Jeremy Strong gave his first televised interview Tuesday night on AC360 with Anderson Cooper Strong explained that there was alternate ending to the show's now-iconic finale that was nearly filmed The show's final scene sees a contemplative Kendall Roy being forced to come to terms with the fact that he will never be the CEO of his father's company The whopping 88-minute finale on Sunday evening, which concluded the hit series chronicling a billionaire media mogul and his children's struggles to take over the family company, Waystar Royco, left viewers reeling because none of the Roy siblings won. In the episode, Shiv Roy took one final turn against her brother Kendall, blowing up his plans to keep their late father's company and become CEO by voting to let their media empire be acquired by a Swedish tech giant, GoJo. Strong described his sister siding with her husband ultimately as a 'capitulation' of her character in allowing the 'patriarchy' to run out victorious. Strong said in a separate interview with the New York Times that the final scene was shot during winter in Battery Park earlier this year. 'I've never been so cold in my life. What was happening was like the ninth circle of hell, which is frozen. I couldn't feel anything,' he said. The star didn't specifically say that the temperature prevented them from shooting the final scene with him in the water. 'I did try and go in the water. We've seen Kendall lose again and again and again, but this feels catastrophic,' he added. It's pointed out in the Times piece how significant water is in the character's life, from the drowning of a waiter at his sister's wedding, to being in the water when his siblings tell him they will support his bid to be CEO. 'He's always in a place where he might lift off out of it, or he might be submerged and drown in it. He's treading water for his life,' Strong added. Celebrate: Just hours after the explosive Succession series finale aired on HBO, one of the show's crew members shared how star Jeremy Strong celebrated: by getting his head shaved by his on-screen siblings. Unlike the fictional character, the ending of the show was much more celebratory for Strong. Just hours after the final episode aired, Strong could be seen in a social media video getting his head shaved by his on-screen brother, Roman, aka Kieran Culkin. He tells their co-star Sarah Snook, 35, who plays Shiv Roy, to, 'get in there,' and passes the clippers to her as she starts shaving the sides and the back of his head. The clippers are then passed around to several other crew members, as one man named Joe asks, 'Can I get in there?' Culkin tells Strong to turn around and look in the mirror, as he sees the top of his head cleanly shaved as he laughs. Strong replies, 'Yeah get in there! Anybody can get a crack,' as Joe passes the clipper to Strong, who passes it to a female crew member. Strong then asks Culkin, 'Can I shave your head?' but he emphatically responds, 'No!' as the room breaks into laughter. Snook is seen shaving the right side of Strong's head when Culkin pulls out an egg and smashes it on Strong's nearly-bald head, which Snook was not expecting. Strong takes the clippers from a stunned Snook as Culkin wipes some of the egg on her face before they both hug, before someone smashes an egg on Culkin's head. The show debuted in 2018 and has won a total of 13 Primetime Emmy Awards for its first three seasons. The show has won Outstanding Drama Series for two of its three seasons, and will likely be a top contender for this year's Emmy Awards as well. Strong has signed on to play a man who tries to expose water contamination in a Norwegian spa town in Henrik Ibsen's 1882 play 'An Enemy of the People.' The play with a rewrite from Amy Herzog, whose adaptation of Ibsen's 'A Doll's House' just won a Tony nomination will premiere on Broadway in early 2024 at a theater to be revealed later, producers said. The rest of the cast will be announced later. Sam Gold, who won a Tony directing 'Fun Home,' will helm the revival. It will be Strong's second time on Broadway. He was in 'A Man for All Seasons' in 2008 with Frank Langella and Patrick Page. Since then, his work on 'Succession' has earned him an Emmy and a Golden Globe. Strong will play a public-minded doctor in a small town who discovers the water supply for the public spa is contaminated and may have made tourists the community's economic lifeblood ill. But his efforts to clean up the mess pit his ethics against political cowards and the media, leaving his family suffering. Anthony Albanese has come under fire after tweeting a photo of three new assistant ministers freshly sworn into their portfolios by Governor-General David Hurley. The Prime Minister was photographed alongside Patrick Gorman, Andrew Leigh and Anthony Chisholm. Mr Albanese shared the photo to his Twitter page on Wednesday where social media users were quick to point out one glaring detail. The three new assistant ministers were all men and white with social media users slamming the lack of diversity. Pictured left to right: Anthony Chisholm, Andrew Leigh, David Hurley, Anthony Albanese and Patrick Gorman Many commenters were outraged by the three new assistant minister appointments, with one tweeting (pictured) that it was 'misogyny' 'What! No women!,' one wrote. Another went much further, saying the photo made them sick. 'Absolutely disgraceful, misogyny. I'm feeling ill, sick to the core, can't breathe like, the oxygen has been sucked out of the hard working families,' they wrote. Others had a more sarcastic take on the situation, with one writing 'Some diversity there!' and another using it as a chance to attack the previous prime minister. 'Morrison would have filled all three jobs. What a waste of money,' they said. This was a reference to the revelation last August that Scott Morrison secretly had himself sworn into five ministerial portfolios while he was prime minister. Other commenters suggested that Wednesday's appointments were a betrayal of the high moral ground Labor was supposed to bring to governing. 'I thought diversity was high on your agenda,' one said, while another pointed out that at least the five white men in the photo all had different tie patterns. Others also used what the men were wearing to attack them, with one saying the photo was just 'White blokes in suits' and another posting that 'We celebrate our great Aussie diversity by.........promoting white men in suits.' Another slammed Labor for not living up to its own supposed moral high ground (pictured) Governor-General David Hurley is pictured with his wife Linda, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon Some people used the opportunity to have a crack at the government in general. 'Labor has more ministers and assisting ministers than the Coalition ever had in history,' one wrote. 'How much taxpayers money is Labor spending with no consideration for the Australian people, or the national debt.' Another managed to link the photo to the cost of living and their views on migration, writing, 'Are you doing anything to address the housing crisis? 'People are struggling to pay their mortgages and rent You are out of touch with everyday Aussies You need to pause/reduce migration immediately.' Accuser found to have lied during the trial A 24-year-old man accused of raping a friend in a pub's bathrooms has been found not guilty after his accuser's credibility was called into question. The packed courtroom in the District Court of South Australia was shocked by the judge's verdict in the case against Thomas Esposito on Wednesday. Judge Joanne Tracey said in her verdict that the woman's initial lies about sexualised messages between her and Mr Esposito over Snapchat had tarnished her credibility. The court heard Mr Esposito was accused of pushing the woman up against the wall of a unisex bathroom before kissing in Atlantis Bar in 2021, before raping her. Mr Esposito did not deny the sexual activities, but vehemently denied it was non-consensual. Thomas Esposito , 24, (pictured) has been found not guilty of raping his friend in a bar's unisex bathrooms in 2021 after the judge found the woman's credibility was tarnished The court was told that the pair had entered the bathroom stall together before the incident occurred. Mr Esposito's lawyer, Andrew Culshaw, told the court his client was forthright about his actions on the night, not downplaying his alcohol consumption or sexual activity. 'He did not try to paint himself as an angel,' Mr Culshaw said, according to The Adelaide Advertiser. He told the court the pair had had consensual sex in the past and that the woman had lied about sending his client sexually explicit messages over Snapchat. 'She was determined to paint Mr Esposito as a sexual aggressor,' Mr Culshaw said. 'In respect of the Snapchat communications, in between the consensual sex and the alleged offending, as someone who was pursuing her for sex and that she was ignoring him.' He then said that all evidence pointed towards consensual sexual activity, not rape, as 'certainly in Mr Esposito's mind what happened was consensual'. Judge Joanne Tracey said in her verdict that the woman's initial lies caused enough doubt to deliver a not guilty verdict at the District Court of South Australia (pictured) on Wednesday In her published reasons for the verdict, Judge Tracey explained the woman's lack of acknowledgment of the pair's sexual communication was 'unsettling'. 'No doubt (the woman) was embarrassed and regrettably may have been concerned that such communications would portray her in a bad light and that her previous behaviour would be thought of as demonstrating that he had been a very willing participant in what occurred at the Atlantis bar,' she wrote. '(The woman) had willingly walked hand-in-hand with the accused to the toilet and appeared to at least have tolerated him in the first toilet cubicle. 'These matters which occurred against a background of (the woman) previously seeking out the accused and communicating with him in the manner she had.' She said it would block the sun on her panels for all of winter A homeowner has been left devastated after spending $10,000 on solar panels and learning a two-storey house will be built next door blocking sunlight to her house. Sharon Robertson, who lives in The Oaks in Sydney's south-west, said the project next door has been approved by local council. She claims her pleas to council has fallen on deaf ears and left her at her wit's end. 'I think it's ridiculous,' Ms Robertson told 7NEWS. 'Even the mayor and four other councillors have gone in to bat for me and said, you know, 'What the hell?'.' Sharon Robertson (pictured) who lives in The Oaks south west of Sydney said the two-storey development next door is approved by local Council - which has basically told her 'bad luck' Ms Robertson said she feels the Council have told her 'Oh well, bad luck' adding the development (pictured, a plan of the property next to her home) would block the sun coming onto her panels during the crucial winter months Ms Robertson said the development would block the sun coming onto her panels during the crucial winter months. Wollondilly Shire Council CEO Ben Taylor said the pending construction complies with 'the suite of development controls applicable to the site and that the environmental impacts are not unreasonable'. Councilor Suzy Brandstater said she was gutted by the decision saying 'it was unfair' for someone to construct a house that will block out the panels' energy source. Wollondilly MP Judy Hannan said the state's planning rules need to change and Planning NSW needs to have a vision on how to manage them in the future. It comes after one of Australia's most high-profile radio hosts reignited debate about solar panels last year claiming the 'clean, green energy source' has environmental issues. Sydney Radio 2GB host Ben Fordham raised questions over the 'fragile' and 'flawed' business case for panels after he was inundated with complaints from listeners at the time doubting a push to make the switch. Fordham said authorities can't hide the fact that a lot of question marks remain about the panels, even though half a million NSW households alone have them installed, including himself. It costs Australians an average of $10,000 for the panels on top of up to $16,000 for the battery to make the most out of the system, the host claimed. It costs Australians an average of $10,000 for the panels on top of up to $16,000 for the battery to make the most out of the system, the 2GB Radio Host Ben Fordham claimed last year 'People have installed solar panels in the hope of saving money in the long run,' he said. 'But more experts are pointing out that the 'savings day' is being pushed back further and further.' 'We've had listeners point out to us that after making the switch- they're not actually saving money. 'It sounds like people are starting to have buyer's remorse.' One woman told Fordham her household is now paying $80 more a quarter than before going solar two years ago as they repay the cost of the panels. The NSW Department of Planning and Environment was contacted for comment by Daily Mail Australia. Ukrainian artillery also struck the Russian town of Shebekino on the border The Afipsky oil refinery in Russia was hit by a suspected Ukrainian drone today A suspected Ukrainian drone sparked a fire at an oil refinery in southern Russia today and shelling hit a town in the border region of Belgorod for the third time in a week, Russian officials said. A day after Russia accused Kyiv of sending kamikaze drones to attack Moscow, a suspected Ukrainian drone struck the Afipsky oil refinery in the early hours of this morning. The 'thunderous' 3am strike saw the refinery erupt into flames, with a plume of dark smoke rising into the sky. Nobody was wounded in the attack and the fire was extinguished. The Afipsky refinery is not far from the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, near another refinery that has been attacked several times this month. Separately, Ukrainian artillery struck the Russian town of Shebekino about 4.5 miles north of the border with Ukraine's Kharkiv region, the Belgorod regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on the Telegram messaging app. A day after Russia accused Ukraine of sending kamikaze drones to attack Moscow , a suspected Ukrainian drone struck the Afipsky oil refinery (pictured in flames) in the early hours of this morning The 'thunderous' 3am strike saw the refinery erupt into flames, with a plume of dark smoke rising into the sky Separately, Ukrainian artillery struck the Russian town of Shebekino (pictured: a car on fire after being struck by artillery) about 4.5 miles north of the border with Ukraine's Kharkiv region, regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on the Telegram messaging app Two people were hospitalised and the shelling smashed windows and damaged roofs of an eight-storey apartment building, four homes, a school and other places, he said. The town was earlier targeted by Russian partisan groups based in Ukraine. One theory is that two partisan groups intend to grab territory inside Belgorod region from Putin's troops. Mr Gladkov said in an early morning video: 'This is not a good morning at all. At 3:15am there was a mass missile attack on Shebekino [town]. 'There is a lot of damage in blocks of flats, private houses, [and] many private cars burned.' Four people were wounded in the strikes, he said, adding: 'Thank God no one was killed. We are starting repair works today. The task is huge. 'We will try to complete it as soon as we can. Starting from today we are evacuating children from Shebekinsky and Graivoronsky districts. Today the first 300 children will be sent to Voronezh.' The attacks inside Russia come as Ukraine prepares a counter-offensive to drive Russian forces out of territory they have occupied since their full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Cars were damaged in the attack on the Belgorod region of Russia on Wednesday Two people were hospitalised and the shelling smashed windows and damaged roofs of an eight-storey apartment building. Pictured: Residents in the Russian town of Shebekino were evacuated from their homes on Wednesday Cars were damaged in the attack on the Belgorod region of Russia on Wednesday Kyiv almost never publicly claims responsibility for attacks in Russia or on Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine. The strike came one day after elite districts in and close to Moscow were targeted in drone strikes in what one Russian politician called the most dangerous attack on the capital since World War Two. Several buildings in the wealthy suburbs of Moscow were damaged by suspected Ukrainian kamikaze drones yesterday, just hours after Putin unleashed another volley of strikes on Kyiv. The Russian defence ministry said eight drones sent to Moscow by Ukraine were shot down or diverted with electronic jammers, though Baza, a Telegram channel with links to the security services, said there were more than 25. Putin and his cronies accused Ukraine of trying to 'frighten' Russians with their 'increasingly reckless behaviour' after the drone attack. Apparently forgetting that Russia has unleashed a series of deadly airstrikes on Ukrainian cities that have killed thousands since the start of the war 15 months ago, Putin claimed Kyiv had chosen the 'path of trying to frighten the citizens of Russia'. Putin said the drone attack was in revenge for earlier Russian strikes on 'command centres'. In reality the Kremlin has targeted residential buildings in Kyiv with its airstrikes. Footage purportedly shows a suspected Ukrainian drone explode with a mushroom cloud (pictured) near Usovo village, which is close to Vladimir Putin's official residence, on Tuesday An apartment building in Moscow was damaged in the suspected Ukrainian drone strike on Tuesday An apartment building bearing blast marks from a explosive drone launched into Moscow on Tuesday morning A specialist inspects the damaged facade of a multi-storey apartment building after a reported drone attack in Moscow on Tuesday 'We have spoken about hitting command centres (in Ukraine). In response, the Kyiv regime has chosen a different path, the path of trying to frighten Russia, frighten the citizens of Russia and of strikes on residential buildings,' Putin said. And Russia's foreign ministry parroted similar lines, claiming that Western support for Ukraine was 'pushing' Kyiv towards 'increasingly reckless' behaviour. 'Western support for the Kyiv regime is pushing the Ukrainian leadership towards increasingly reckless acts, including terrorism,' the Russian foreign ministry said, adding that the attacks on Moscow was aimed at 'spreading panic among civilians'. A Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in the Moscow attack, but said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. 'Of course we are pleased to watch and predict an increase in the number of attacks. But of course we have nothing directly to do with this,' Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said. One kamikaze drone exploded in a mushroom cloud near the village of Usovo yesterday, which is just down the road from Putin's official Novo-Ogaryovo residence outside of the capital. '[Putin's residence] would be in earshot of the explosion,' one local said. In the city, explosive drones struck blocks of flats in Leninsky Prospekt and Profsoyuznaya Street about six miles from the centre of Moscow, reportedly wounding several residents and damaging the buildings. If Ukraine is responsible, it would be one of Kyiv's deepest and most daring incursions into Russia since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Yesterday, Kyiv was once again pounded with Russian drones and artillery in an attack that killed four people and wounded 34 others, including two children. At least 20 Iranian-made Shahed drones were destroyed by Kyiv's air defence system in Russia's third attack on the capital in 24 hours. An apartment building burns after being damaged during a massive Russian drone strike in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Tuesday Emergency workers extinguish a fire in a parked car, caused by falling debris from the latest aerial Russian attack in the Pecherskyi district of Kyiv on Tuesday An injured man stands next to an apartment building that was damaged in a Russian drone strike in Kyiv on Tuesday Rescuers evacuate a woman from a residential building that was partially destroyed after a Russian drones attack in Kyiv on Tuesday The two upper floors of a block of flats were destroyed, and there may be people under the rubble, the Kyiv military administration said. More than 20 people were evacuated. Elsewhere in Kyiv, falling debris caused a fire in a private house in the Darnytskyi district and three cars were set alight in the Pechersky district, according to the military administration. 'Russia is trying to break us and break our will. To deprive peaceful citizens of sleep and prevent us, the security and defence sector, from preparing to implement important tasks,' said Ukraine's interior minister Ihor Klymenko. Russia has attacked Kyiv 17 times in May with drones or missiles, mostly at night, in an apparent attempt to undermine Ukrainians' will to fight after more than 15 months of war. The US government will appear in a federal court next Tuesday to answer questions regarding Prince Harry's visa application after he admitted using illegal drugs. The Heritage Foundation, a Washington DC-based conservative think-tank, is suing Joe Biden's administration to force officials to release the Duke of Sussex's immigration files. The organisation wants to know how the prince managed to get into the US, considering he subsequently confessed in his bombshell memoir Spare to taking cocaine, cannabis and magic mushrooms. The Heritage Foundation has said its case will be held in front of a federal judge on June 6 at 2.30pm in courtroom 17 of the US District Court for the District of Columbia. The US government will also be represented. The news was revealed by Nile Gardiner, director of the Margaret Thatcher Centre for Freedom at the Heritage Foundation, who also said it would be open to the press. A decision to unseal immigration records could have implications for Harry's status in the US given an admission of drug use can see a visa application rejected. Harry and Meghan at the Ms Foundation Women of Vision Awards in New York on May 16 The Heritage Foundation has said the case will be held in front of a US federal judge on June 6 The Heritage Foundation is aiming to establish whether the duke's drug revelations in Spare were also mentioned in his visa application. Can drug users be banned from visiting the United States? US officials can stop foreigners who have committed drugs offences entering the country even if they have never been arrested and charged. Under US rules, suspected drug abusers applying for a visa may be required to answer additional medical history questions and also take a medical exam to prove that they are not still a drug abuser before being allowed to enter the country. In high-profile cases where celebrities who are known to have taken drugs want to come to America, they have been invited into the US embassy in London to take a drugs test. Musician Pete Doherty was famously banned from the US due to drug-related arrests. In 2014 TV cook Nigella Lawson was banned from flying to the US after she confessed to taking drugs. Advertisement The appeal to the court regarding the case - which was covered by DailyMail.com earlier this month - comes after the group failed to make the application public using freedom of information laws in March. In Spare, Harry revealed that he first took cocaine on a shooting weekend at age 17. He did a 'few more lines' on other occasions. He also admitted to hallucinating during a celebrity-filled event in California and smoking cannabis after his first date with Meghan. And the duke spoke about his 'positive' experience of psychedelic drug ayahuasca, saying it 'brought me a sense of relaxation, release, comfort, a lightness that I managed to hold on to for a period of time'. Harry made the comments in an interview with therapist Dr Gabor Mate, an outspoken supporter of decriminalising drugs who has allegedly used Amazonian plant ayahuasca to treat patients suffering from mental illness. Harry told him: '(Cocaine) didn't do anything for me, it was more a social thing and gave me a sense of belonging for sure, I think it probably also made me feel different to the way I was feeling, which was kind of the point. 'Marijuana is different, that actually really did help me.' Under US law, anyone who admits to past abuse of illegal narcotics is generally denied entry to the country. Applicants for a visa to live and work in America have to tick a box to answer 'yes' or 'no' to a question on past drug use. It reads: 'Are you or have you ever been a drug abuser or addict?' Prince Harry at the Ziegfeld Theatre in New York on May 16 for the Ms Foundation event This is the section of the visa application that Prince Harry would have had to fill in order to get into the United States Answering yes can result in being denied a US visa, as happened in the case of Amy Winehouse in 2008 - causing her to cancel plans to attend the Grammy awards. In 'Spare' and the TV interviews that followed, Prince Harry admitted taking illegal drugs But an admission of drug use does not automatically ban you from the US for life. Any denial of entry can be overturned after an in-person interview at a US consulate or official immigration office, where a waiver can be issued. The Heritage Foundation has argued that there is 'immense public interest' in learning how Harry answered the question on drugs in his application. And they can have some confidence of succeeding in getting the documents unsealed, given the history of authorities releasing immigration documents about public figures. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services website has an electronic reading room which contains the files of some celebrities, such as the late musicians George Michael and John Lennon. The Heritage Foundation published the legal complaint in the US earlier this month Prince Harry is pictured after a night out at the Cuckoo Club in London in August 2006 Speaking earlier this month, Mr Gardiner - a former senior aide to former prime minister Margaret Thatcher from 2000 to 2002, advising her on international policy issues - said the lawsuit was aiming to achieve 'transparency and accountability.' 'There is a very clear US public interest in ensuring Harry did not receive any favorable or preferential treatment by the immigration authorities,' he added. 'Any discrepancy between the details provided in his immigration application and the revelations of drug use in Spare would have serious implications for his legal status in the United States. 'Harry should welcome the release of his immigration application so the public can see what was put in the application.' MailOnline has contacted representatives for Harry for comment today. Rescue crews called for paramedics before moving her A woman has fallen off a rock face at a popular West Australian national park sparking a tricky rescue operation lasting into nightfall. The tourist was exploring Joffre Gorge in Karijini National Park, a spectacular location filled with walking trails, a natural ampitheatre and rock pools, when she slipped about 2.15pm. Fire and rescue crews from the nearby town of Tom Price rushed to scene but called for specialist St John Ambulance officers to assist before they risked moving the woman. The woman fell at least three metres down a cliff at Joffre Gorge in WA (pictured) The woman sustained non life-threatening injuries in the fall but the delicate maneuvering to get her safely back up the rock face is an hours-long rescue operation. A spokesperson for St John Ambulance said the woman will be kept for treatment and observation at Tom Price Hospital. In 2020, seven-year-old Daniel Ford narrowly avoided serious head and spinal injuries when he fell eight metres down the same gorge while on a camping trip with his mother. He landed in water at the bottom of the gorge and sustained no lasting injuries after he was rescued. A Woolworths worker has been held up at knifepoint following a terrifying daylight robbery. The female employee was 'threatened' and told to hand over cash by a man at the supermarket in Cartwright Avenue, Miller in Sydney's south-west. The armed robbery took place just after 7.30am on Wednesday morning. The thief then fled the scene with the cash on a push-bike. On Wednesday evening he remains at large. A Woolworths worker in south-western Sydney was threatened by a man with a knife and ordered to hand over cash on Wednesday The woman was not injured in the robbery, police told Daily Mail Australia, adding that 'no arrests' had been made by Wednesday 5.15pm. 'Just after 7.30am (Wednesday 31 May 2023), police were called to a supermarket on Cartwright Avenue, Miller, following reports of an armed robbery,' a police statement read. 'Officers attached to Liverpool City Police Area Command attended and were told a man had threatened an employee with a knife and demanded money, before stealing cash and leaving on a pushbike.' Police are continuing to investigate the 'circumstances surrounding the incident'. The retail giant offered staff 'counseling and support' after the incident, it told Daily Mail Australia in a statement. It added that the safety of its team members and customers was its 'highest priority'. Anyone with any information or dash cam footage is urged to contact police immediately. Dmitry Medvedev warned that British officials who help Kyiv would be a target A Kremlin state television presenter has called for Salisbury Cathedral's spire to 'fall on James Cleverly's head' after the Foreign Secretary voiced his support for Ukrainian attacks within Russia. Olga Skabeyeva said she wanted to impale Cleverly with the spire, referencing the alibi used by two Russian assassins in the 2018 Novichok poisonings. The Moscow agents claimed they were ordinary tourists who wanted to see Salisbury Cathedral's 123m spire when they visited the city on the day double agent Sergei Skripal was poisoned in the city. Mr Cleverly said yesterday that Ukraine had the right to 'project force' beyond its own borders for self-defence following reports of a suspected Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow. The Kremlin subsequently threatened that British officials were now 'legitimate military targets' for Moscow following the Foreign Secretary's statement. Russia's former president Dmitry Medvedev warned any British public officials who were deemed to be 'facilitating' Ukraine in its defence against Russia would be a target. Olga Skabeyeva said she wanted to impale James Cleverly with the spire - a reference to the alibi used by two Russian assassins in the 2018 Novichok poisonings 'In return, we believe that in order to render Cleverly harmless, we need to, for example, make the well-known Salisbury spire fall directly on his head,' Olga Skabeyeva said James Cleverly holds a SA80 rifle yesterday while meeting military officers on HMS Albion in Estonia In her extraordinary spiralling rant against Cleverly, translated by the BBC's Francis Scarr, Skabeyeva said that Nato had 'voiced its approval' of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's strikes on Moscow, adding: 'British Foreign Secretary Cleverly said that Ukraine has a legitimate right to defend itself and can use force beyond its borders. 'According to Cleverly, legitimate military targets beyond Ukraine's borders are part of Kyiv's self-defence and the West must now recognise this. 'Rendering Russia harmless is apparently entirely legitimate. 'In return, we believe that in order to render Cleverly harmless, we need to, for example, make the well-known Salisbury spire fall directly on his head.' Scowling at the camera, she concluded: 'Completely legitimate. Do you agree?' Medvedev, a close ally of Russian president Vladimir Putin, and his deputy on the country's security council, also hit out following Mr Cleverly's statement, which was made during a visit to Estonia. 'Today, the UK acts as Ukraine's ally, providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto is leading an undeclared war against Russia,' Medvedev tweeted. 'That being the case, any of its public officials (either military, or civil, who facilitate the war) can be considered as a legitimate military target.' Alexander Petrov (left) and Ruslan Boshirov (right) claimed they just happened to be ordinary tourists who wanted to see Salisbury Cathedral's magnificent '123-metre spire' on the day double agent Sergei Skripal was poisoned in 2018 in the city Footage purportedly showing a suspected Ukrainian drone explode yesterday near Usovo village in Russia, close to Vladimir Putin's official residence A rambling Medvedev continued: 'The UK's Foreign Secretary Cleverly has stated that Ukraine "has the legitimate right to project force beyond its borders to undermine Russia's ability to project force into Ukraine itself". READ MORE: Russia in flames once more as Ukrainian drones and artillery destroy oil refinery and shell border town a day after targeting elite Moscow suburb Advertisement Medvedev - seen by some as angling for a return as Russian president if Putin is forced out by war failings or ill-health - said: 'The goofy officials of the UK, our eternal enemy, should remember that within the framework of the universally accepted international law which regulates modern warfare, including the Hague and Geneva Conventions with their additional protocols, their state can also be qualified as being at war.' Cleverly, speaking on a visit to Nato member and Russia's neighbour Estonia, where British troops are based, said Kyiv had 'the legitimate right to defend itself' when asked about yesterday's drone attack on Moscow. He said: 'I don't have details, and I am not going to speculate about the nature of the drone attacks in Moscow. So what I'm about to say are more general points, rather than on that specific incident. 'Ukraine does have the legitimate right to defend itself. It has the legitimate right to do so within its own borders, of course, but it does also have the right to project force beyond its borders to undermine Russia's ability to project force into Ukraine itself. 'So legitimate military targets beyond its own border are part of Ukraine's self-defence. And we should recognise that. 'That is not to say that I have any particular assessment over the attacks in Moscow, but more broadly military targets beyond its own border are internationally recognised as being legitimate as part of a nation's self-defence.' Several buildings in the wealthy suburbs of Moscow were damaged by suspected Ukrainian kamikaze drones yesterday, just hours after Putin unleashed another volley of strikes on Kyiv. A specialist inspects the damaged facade of a multi-storey apartment building after a reported drone attack in Moscow yesterday The Russian defence ministry said eight drones sent to Moscow by Ukraine were shot down or diverted with electronic jammers, though Baza, a Telegram channel with links to the security services, said there were more than 25. After the drone attack, Putin accused Ukraine of trying to 'frighten' Russians with their 'increasingly reckless behaviour'. Ignoring the fact that Russia has unleashed a series of deadly air strikes on Ukrainian cities that have killed thousands since the start of the war 15 months ago, Putin claimed Kyiv had chosen the 'path of trying to frighten the citizens of Russia'. He said the drone attack was in revenge for earlier Russian strikes on 'command centres'. In reality the Kremlin air strikes have hit residential buildings in Kyiv, causing residents to run for their lives to bomb shelters. In the US, the White House said it was gathering information on the reports of drone strikes in Moscow. 'We do not support attacks inside Russia. That's it. Period,' White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at a briefing. Britain's most important and controversial spy within the IRA once described how he murdered a man by shooting him in the back of the head, according to newly unearthed court papers. Freddie Scappaticci, better known by his codename Stakeknife, headed the 'nutting squad' - the IRA's notorious internal security unit charged with rooting out suspected informers - at the same time as passing secrets to the security services. Scappaticci, who died in April aged 77, denied being Stakeknife but it is now generally accepted that he was. While he has been linked to the kidnap, murder and torture of as many as 50 people, documentary evidence of his crimes has not been forthcoming. Now, a new BBC documentary has uncovered a witness statement from a man who was kidnapped and taken to a house in Belfast in which he claims to have heard Scappaticci boasting of a previous murder. Sandy Lynch, a suspected informer, told how he was stripped and tied to a chair as Scappaticci stood behind him and described how he would be tortured and murdered. Freddie Scappaticci, better known by his codename Stakeknife, headed the 'nutting squad' - the IRA's notorious internal security unit. He's seen in 2003 Scappaticci walking behind Gerry Adams (right) at the 1988 funeral of IRA man Brendan Davidson 'He said that I would wake up hung upside down in a cowshed and he would talk to me the way that he wanted to talk to me, that he would skin me alive and that no one would hear me squealing,' Mr Lynch said in his statement revealed to The Spy Who Got Away With Murder, a BBC Northern Ireland Spotlight investigation. 'He tapped me two or three times on the back of my head and said: ''You'll get it right there . . . like that b*****d Fenton.'' He said that he had done it.' Joe Fenton was an estate agent in Belfast who was killed in 1989 after being savagely interrogated by the IRA over his work as a police informer. His murder took place in the same house where Mr Lynch was interrogated before being rescued when police raided the property. He later gave evidence against his abductors in court before going into the witness protection scheme. Scappaticci's fingerprint was found in the house and he was arrested but never charged with an offence. Mr Fenton's killers have never been prosecuted. The alleged activities of Stakeknife and the role of security services including MI5 are currently under investigation in Operation Kenova led by former Bedfordshire chief constable, Jon Boutcher. Born in the Markets area of West Belfast, the son of Italian immigrants, Scappaticci began working as a bricklayer, but in 1971 aged 25, he was interned without trial, along with many of the next generation of Republicans including Gerry Adams. Scappaticci, who died in April aged 77, denied being Stakeknife but it is now generally accepted that he was A new BBC documentary has uncovered a witness statement from a man who was kidnapped and taken to a house in Belfast in which he claims to have heard Scappaticci (pictured) boasting of a previous murder When he was released in 1974 he was a volunteer in the Provisionals and by 1980 he had joined the Nutting Squad. His first involvement with British Intelligence is believed to have been in 1978, when he is said to have volunteered to become an informer after being assaulted in an argument with a senior IRA comrade. READ MORE - JOHN McENTEE: Why I'll never forget the IRA mole shot dead in a peat bog Advertisement His first contact was with the RUC's Special Branch, but when the British later formed the shadowy Force Research unit to co-ordinate Army intelligence, Stakeknife became their best asset. Stakeknife is said to have provided a goldmine of intelligence to the British, including allowing them to identify IRA members involved in the kidnapping of wealthy Irish supermarket magnate Ben Dunne in 1981, as well as those who tried to abduct Canadian business tycoon Galen Weston in 1983. One of Scappaticci's most notable claims was that former Sinn Fein leader and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, Martin McGuinness was involved in the death of Frank Hegarty, an IRA man killed by them in 1986 as an informer after they blamed him for the discovery of a huge Libyan arms cache by the Gardai. According to other sources, Hegarty himself was an FRU agent, and Scappaticci was involved in his torture and murder, to protect his own skin. Scappaticci is alleged to have worked closely with his FRU handlers in the 1980s and 1990s to protect and promote his own position within the IRA, with accusations that the FRU even killed individuals who might have exposed Scappaticci as an informer. Spotlight: The Spy Who Got Away With Murder is available now on BBC iPlayer. A Labour donor who has also ploughed thousands of pounds into Just Stop Oil brazenly vowed to increase the cash he gives to the eco-extremists as he attacked his critics. Dale Vince said he would double all money given to JSO for the next 48 hours after senior Conservatives urged Sir Keir Starmer to return the funds the green energy entrepreneur gave to the party. It came amid questions over his support for Labour - to the tune of 1.5million since 2015 - and whether it has influenced the party's green policies. The millionaire Ecotricity founder today confirmed he spoke with the opposition leader by phone last week, days before the party confirmed it wants to ban new oil and gas drilling in the North Sea. Ending exploitation of North Sea reserves is a top JSO demand. Mr Vince condemned attacks on his decision to give money to both groups, telling people on Twitter to 'make a donation' to the climate activist group in the next 48 hours, adding: 'I will double the amount you give'. In an interview with BBC Radio 4's Today programme this morning Mr Vince, 61, was asked when he last spoke to Sir Keir. 'Actually it was last week,' he replied. 'And it was the second time.' Asked about JSO's actions, he added: 'Sometimes laws are unjust. And when that happens, people have to stand up and do something about it. This climate crisis will be with us for hundreds of years.' He is also facing criticism over 300,000 of taxpayers money Ecotricity received during the pandemic, while he was donating to Labour. The group caused more disruption in London by blocking roads. Protesters were arrested for failing to move out of the road in Parliament Square in their latest slow march. Mr Vince condemned attacks on his decision to give money to both groups, telling people on Twitter to 'make a donation' to the climate activist group in the next 48 hours, adding: 'I will double the amount you give'. In an interview with BBC Radio 4's Today programme this morning Mr Vince, 61, was asked when he last spoke to Sir Keir. 'Actually it was last week,' he replied. 'And it was the second time.' Protesters were arrested for failing to move out of the road in Parliament Square in their latest slow march. The group said 10 supporters, including a wheelchair-dependent, retired cook and members of Christian Climate Action, were detained by police on Wednesday. They were among a larger group of 56 activists who were staging a slow march near the Houses of Parliament, following earlier protest action in west London when the A4 was blocked during rush hour (pictured) The group said 10 supporters, including a wheelchair-dependent, retired cook and members of Christian Climate Action, were detained by police on Wednesday. They were among a larger group of 56 activists who were staging a slow march near the Houses of Parliament, following earlier protest action in west London when the A4 was blocked during rush hour. At the weekend Labour sources confirmed it opposes new drilling in the North Sea, with a party source telling the Sunday Times new licences 'will do nothing to cut bills'. Shadow pensions minister Nick Thomas-Symonds today denied the cash was influencing party policy, branding JSO's stunts 'unacceptable and counter productive'. Mr Vince's business received more than 300,000 in grants from the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. At the same time the 61-year-old ploughed 770,000 into Sir Keir Starmer's party, including a direct donation of 10,000 to his deputy, Angela Rayner. A Treasury source told the Telegraph: 'The point of furlough was to help keep people in work, not allow companies to make donations to Labour. 'It is obvious Dale Vince's company didn't need the support, so he should voluntarily repay the money. Sir Keir Starmer should also ask himself whether this was an appropriate use of furlough funds, and hand the donation back.' Jacob Rees-Mogg, the former business secretary, added: 'Covid support payments were intended to help companies survive. They were not meant to be a covert way of funding political parties. Ecotricity should repay taxpayers urgently and fund its politicking out of its own pocket.' Mr Vince told the paper: 'Like hundreds of thousands of other British businesses, we used the Government's furlough scheme during successive lockdowns, for its purpose - to maintain jobs and ensure we stayed in business. It's one of the few things this government got right in the pandemic. 'We have given money to Labour for many years, we did so before the furlough scheme and after it - and we will do so again. I firmly believe only Labour can sort out the mess that successive Tory governments have caused to our country and economy.' Sir Keir is under pressure over more than 1.5million Labour has received from Mr Vince since 2015, due to his cash for the eco-zealots behind a wave of disruptive protests. Today, Mr Thomas-Symonds lashed out at the group this morning, telling BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'We have been extremely clear on our views on Just Stop Oil. 'Indeed, Keir Starmer has said of them 'just go home' because they are not actually promoting the cause of tackling climate change. 'What they are doing is entirely counterproductive and the only debate it's provoking is about our public order laws.' Mr Thomas-Symonds said Mr Vince, a green energy entrepreneur and chairman of League Two football club Forest Green Rovers, is a 'successful businessman here in the UK', adding: 'He's a perfectly legitimate person to take money from. 'If he wishes to give money to other causes that's up to him but it can hardly be said that this affects our views as a Labour Party on Just Stop Oil.' ITV News anchor Tom Bradby has paid an emotional and touching tribute to his colleague Emily Morgan, whose death from lung cancer was announced on Saturday by the broadcaster. Morgan, 45, worked for ITN for 23 years, making her way up to become health and science editor and playing a key role in reporting on the Covid pandemic. An outpouring of tributes followed, with NHS England and Piers Morgan offering their condolences and praising her journalism. Yesterday, veteran broadcaster Bradby shared his own tribute, describing Ms Morgan as 'brilliant at her job' but also 'incredibly funny and completely irreverent'. ITV News has shared an extended tribute, ending the programme with a compilation of clips from Morgan's time at ITV. The 45-year-old was a devoted wife and mother to two 'wonderful daughters', said Bradby In an emotional moment, viewers were offered a glimpse of Emily Morgan's private life It shows her reporting bravely from hospitals at the height of the pandemic, as Bradby narrates. 'If the sheer volume of time spent on Covid wards exposed her to a degree of risk, she was always clear as to why she was doing it,' he said, followed by a clip of Morgan describing it as her 'duty' to report 'first-hand, on the ground'. Bradby said that over more than a decade, she reported on health, politics, and much else, and described her as a reporter with 'style, charisma, compassion, and basic humanity'. Veteran broadcaster Bradby shared his own tribute, describing Morgan as 'brilliant at her job' Bradby went on to recall that Morgan started out behind the scenes as a producer. He worked closely with her for five years at Westminster every day, crossing the globe to shadow successive prime ministers, including Tony Blair, Gordon Brown and David Cameron. He continued: 'She was brilliant at her job, it's true, but she was also incredibly funny and completely irreverent. 'I once persuaded our editor to send us across Canada by train with cameraman Rob Turner to make a film on how the Canadians cut the deficit. 'Emily referred to this ever afterwards, in front of senior management, as our holiday in Canada with Rob,' he said. The broadcaster also spoke of his colleague's home life. He said: 'We watched her fall in love, get married, have two wonderful daughters. 'She must've had her faults, we all do, but we didn't see them.' He then finished his tribute with a personal - and touching - sentiment: 'We are devastated because we really loved her and if you'd have known her, you would've too.' Tom Bradby paid tribute to Emily Morgan, and said 'everybody at ITV loved her' On Sunday, news anchor Geraint Vincent fought back tears during an emotional tribute to his late colleague. He added: 'Emily worked here for 23 years, first behind the scenes as a producer, but for most of that time lighting up our programmes every day as a political and then health reporter. 'At 45 years old, she was at the very top of her game, as anyone who followed her peerless reporting of the Covid pandemic will remember well. 'But she was also, as she wanted the world to know, a mum to her two cherished daughters, a wife, a sister and a daughter herself and it is with all of her family that our thoughts are with tonight.' Tributes also poured in on social media, with ITV News presenter Julie Etchingham tweeting: 'The most brilliant, beautiful woman inside and out. 'A devoted Mum. A wonderful, fearless journalist and a dear colleague who lived her life with radiating joy and to the full. Thinking of all her family especially and all those closest to her.' Chris Ship, royal editor for ITV News, said his colleague and friend had been 'full of humanity'. 'She was such a beautiful person and a dear friend,' he said. 'As health editor, Emily was fearless in reporting Covid to the nation in 2020. He added: 'Talented, kind, full of humanity. She was 45.' A woman who allegedly hacked her five-year-old son to death with a machete and cooked and ate part of his head has no mental disorders, the Egyptian Public Prosecution has ruled. The suspect, 29-year-old Hanaa Mohamed Hassan, has been presented to the criminal court, where she will stand trial for the premeditated murder of her son, Youssef. New reports have detailed how the suspect allegedly killed her victim by hitting him on the head three times with the murder weapon. She then chopped his body into bits to destroy the evidence. However, she was arrested before she could bury the body parts. After butchering his body in the bathroom, she had allegedly cooked his head and other parts of his flesh in boiling water on the stove before eating them. The suspect, 29-year-old Hanaa Mohamed Hassan (pictured left), has been presented to the criminal court, where she will stand trial for the premeditated murder of her son, Youssef (right) Earlier reports told how the alleged crime was discovered when Youssef's horrified uncle found body parts in buckets at the family home in Abu Shalabi, Ash Sharqiyah Governorate last month. According to the investigation, Hassan killed Youssef to stop her ex-husband and his family from communicating with him or pursuing her legally for visitation rights. The investigation found that Hassan was of sound mind and that she had not consumed any drugs or medications that would affect her mental state. Following Hassan's arrest, police officers were shocked when she confessed that she had eaten part of her son's head because she 'wanted him to stay with her forever'. Hassan's ex-husband, identified only by his initials, H.A., told local media at the time: 'When I arrived, the police prevented me from seeing my son because of the horrific scene.' Hassan's ex-husband, H.A. (pictured), told local media at the time: 'When I arrived, the police prevented me from seeing my son because of the horrific scene' Hanaa (pictured in police custody) allegedly killed her unsuspecting son by hitting him on the head three times with the murder weapon, according to new reports He explained: 'We separated from each other four years ago because she had land from her father and asked me to leave the house and my family and go with her to live on the land. 'But I refused, and the relationship ended entirely by her will, and I tried to reconcile with her after the divorce, but she refused and stuck to her opinion.' H.A. added: 'My son was the one who kept me connected to her, and I used to see him regularly and bring him clothes and things he needed. 'But recently, she was trying to keep him away from me and plant hatred towards me in his heart, so he wouldn't come to me. 'I was trying to communicate with her family to see my son and make sure he was okay.' According to his lawyer, Samir Mohamed Saleh, Hassan was stone-faced when she told the police in Faqous: 'I wanted to free him and myself. 'I wanted to take revenge against his father and be free. His father keeps coming and trying to take him away all the time.' Dramatic footage shows the moment a police officer drags a Just Stop Oil protester out of the way as motorists blare their horns in frustration. Video which has emerged from Barons Court, west London, shows a group of the eco-protesters blocking a road as people tried to get to work. A male police officer can be seen pushing numerous protesters out of the middle of the road - even dragging one of them by his high-vis vest across the ground. Meanwhile a horn is blaring incessantly at the JSO demonstrators, who refuse to move. In another clip, police are directing protesters to 'keep to the side' before one officer tells an activist: 'It's not your right, sir, you're obstructing a highway.' 'All these people are trying to get to work,' he adds. 'Trying to make a living.' A police officer dragging a protester out of the way by his high vis jacket in west London A policeman drags a Just Stop Oil activist after they stop traffic on Gloucester Road In other footage, a furious van driver shouted at protesters that he needed to get to hospital to see his son. Eventually protesters allow him past after he demands they 'get out of the way'. Met Police have tweeted this morning: 'We are aware of #JustStopOil #protesters #slowmarching on Hammersmith Road; North End Road and Talgarth Road, W14. Officers are on scene assessing the situation. Updates to follow...' They added in a follow up tweet: 'We have dealt swiftly with Just Stop Oil #protestors in #Hammersmith. 'Section 12 conditions were imposed on those involved, and all #protestors have been moved out of the road.' Section 12 of the Public Order Act gives officers the power to prevent disorder and move protesters on. A Met Police spokesman told MailOnline: 'Officers were on scene 08.15hrs, Wednesday 31 May, policing Just Stop Oil protesters walking slowly in Talgarth Road, Hammersmith. 'A short time later, a protester was in a lane of oncoming traffic. Officers on the ground have to make quick time assessments based on unfolding events. 'Therefore the police officer quickly moved the protester out of the way to prevent them being harmed as they posed a danger to themselves and other road users.' A furious van driver told protesters he needed to get to the hospital Defiant Just Stop Oil protesters are seen along the A4, West Cromwell Road, near Barons Court A driver pleads with an activist from Just Stop Oil as they block a road A police officer pushes protesters out of the middle of the road The defiant protesters resist and remain in the middle of the road with their banners as one of their party is dragged away Another police officer seen speaking to the activists The group said it had caused 'chaos' by staging another of its slow marches along three roads near West Kensington Tube station on Wednesday, including the A4, with a total of 66 supporters taking to the roads at around 8am. Yesterday afternoon Just Stop Oil supporters took up positions on London's bridges, bringing traffic to a standstill during rush-hour. A mob of 68 Just Stop Oil climate activists took a stand around Waterloo, Blackfriars, London Bridge and Tower Bridge - but police were quick to move them off the road. Meanwhile, a band of children were seen trying to rip banners out of the hands of protesters on London Bridge. Protesters told the youngsters 'be careful you don't hurt anyone' as they jostled to take their banner off them. No arrests were made. Just Stop Oil enters its sixth week of marching every day in central London, as part of a bid to force the Government to halt all new licences for oil, gas and coal projects. Protesters continue their action bring traffic to a standstill Police say they have dealt swiftly with protesters in Hammersmith - pictured here is Gloucester Road As well as holding 'slow marches' on the streets of London, orange-clad eco-warriors have disrupted major events including the Chelsea Flower Show and Gallagher Premiership rugby union final at on Saturday. The Metropolitan Police has spent 3.5 million policing the protests in the month from April 24 alone, on top of 7.5 million spent by the force dealing with JSO action between October and December last year. Temporary assistant commissioner Matt Twist last week urged the public to wait for the police to deal with the demonstrations. He said: 'We absolutely understand why those who are caught up in traffic delays will be frustrated. 'I would urge the public not to intervene or take matters into their own hands, but to call the police, let us know where the incident is and we will get there quickly.' The time between officers arriving at each scene and imposing conditions to move protesters out of the road has been between 13 and 19 minutes for the recent marches, he added. Ukrainians have coined the drone the 'flying lawnmower' due to its sound Russian drones have continued to rain down on Ukraine, ravaging the country by killing civilians and destroying buildings. The Kremlin's 'kamikaze' suicide drones, laden with explosives, have become a terrifying feature of daily life for Ukrainians. These drones - often small in size a cheap in comparison to other similar weapons - have become an integral part of Russia's war tactics, and one model in particular is wreaking havoc. In an attack on Tuesday, Iranian-supplied Shahed-136 UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) were shot down from the sky over Kyiv in successive waves of 31 strikes, Ukraine's armed forces said. Although Ukraine's air defenses said they were able to shoot down 29, Russia's drones have shown no relent. While Ukrainian forces have been using sophisticated drones, such as the US-made Predator, the Shahed-136 has proved itself to be a crude but effective weapon. The Shaheds, which Russia has rebranded as Geran-2 , have a range of more than 600 miles and can 'loiter' above potential targets for hours before being slammed into enemy soldiers, vehicles or buildings and exploding on impact. An Iranian-made suicide drone, launched by Russia, is seen flying above Kyiv amid an aerial attack on the capital, Ukraine, October 17, 2022 A ball of smoke and flames rises over the streets of Kyiv as the city is bombarded by a swarm of Iranian-made kamikaze drones, hitting residential areas and energy infrastructure, October 17, 2022 Iran previously denied providing Russia with weapons, before admitting late last year to sending a small number of drones months before the Ukraine war' to Moscow. Iranian Shahed-136 UAVs: Facts and figures Ukraine has accused Russia of using Iranian-made Shahed-136 UAVs - also known as suicide drones - against military and civilian targets. Tehran has denied selling the drones to Russia, but there is mounting evidence that Moscow is deploying the weapon. Here are some facts and figures about the deadly drone: Weapon type: Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) In service since: 2021 2021 Made in: Iran Iran Maker: HESA (Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industries Corporation) HESA (Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industries Corporation) Weight: 440lbs 440lbs Warhead: 80lbs 80lbs Length: 12 feet 12 feet Wingspan: 8 feet 8 feet Range: 600 miles 600 miles Flight height: 13,000ft max. 13,000ft max. Speed: 120 miles per hour 120 miles per hour Used in: Yemen, Iraq and Ukraine Iranian-made Shahed-136 UAVs Advertisement The drones have been repeatedly used by Russia throughout the conflict, targeting urban centers and power stations. They are comparatively cheap, costing in the region of 16,000. Their use in swarms presented a major challenge to Ukrainian air defenses earlier in the war And although Western nations have since bolstered the Ukrainian air defenses with anti-missile systems, the country is still in the grip of the relentlessness attacks. Ukrainians who have witnessed drone strikes say they make a highly distinctive noise, like 'motorbikes' in the air, while some soldiers have taken to calling the drones 'the flying lawnmower'. The general staff of the armed forces of Ukraine released a video in October last year showing a smoking wreckage, claiming it to be one of the drones. The post said it had been shot down by a machine gun. 'This is a primitive handmade product,' Yuriy Ignat, a spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, told Radio Free Europe after the attack last year. 'It's not a high-tech conveyor-belt production like the [Turkish-made] Bayraktar or American and Israeli [unmanned aerial vehicles],' he added. Ukrainian residents described the drone attacks to RFE. 'You can hear the roar. First, I just hear them, but then I saw one fly by and then explode,' one man said. Another said: 'There was a buzz that woke me up. I remember thinking: "What's that?" The sound was approaching and then there was an explosion near the house.' According to reports, the first recorded use of the drones was in Yemen. Now, Iran is reported to have sold hundreds of the drones to Russia. Packed with explosives, the Shahed UAVs can be pre-programmed with the GPS coordinates of a target. They are known as suicide drones because they nosedive and explode on impact like a missile and are destroyed in the process. Iran's Shahed drone has been in service since 2021 and weighs 440lbs Ukrainian air defense intercepts a Shahed drone mid-air in the third Russia aerial attack on the capital in 24 hours in Kyiv, Ukraine, May 30, 2023 A Shahed missile is destroyed mid-air as Ukrainian air defense intercepts an attack, Kyiv, Ukraine, May 30, 2023 Smoke billows from a building hit by a drone attack in downtown Kyiv, 17 October 2022 A security officer uses his rifle to try and take down a suicide drone attacking the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, October 17, 2022 The Shahed 136 is almost 12ft long with a 4ft wingspan in a delta, or triangular shape. The explosives are contained in the nose of the drone, as well as the technology that guides it to its targets for a precision strike. The engine is found at the rear and drives two bladed propellers. It has been compared to an engine one would find on a lawnmower or a moped. According to Iranian data, the UAV's range is about 1,000km (621 miles), but drone expert Samuel Bendett with the CNA think-tank told MailOnline that the Shahed is being used in Ukraine at much shorter ranges. That's because its GPS guidance system - which is vulnerable to jamming - isn't very robust. In order to overwhelm air defences, several of the drones - generally batches of five or more - are launched at once from the same rack. They can be fired in quick succession from a rocket launcher mounted on a truck. The rocket is jettisoned on take-off and the engine takes over once it is airborne. An almost horizontal launch allows the drones to fly low and slow, and so avoid radar detective more effectively. Iranians are known to have controlled Shaheds via radio. Whether Russia is capable of the same in Ukraine is unclear, though Ukrainians have reported seeing the drones change direction, suggesting at least some remote control. Part of a downed Iranian-made Shahed-136 drone launched by Russia is seen near Kupiansk, Ukraine, September 13, 2022 View of an apartment damaged from the middle in a residential building in Kyiv as a result of a Russian military attack by Iranian-made Shahed-136 drones, May 9, 2023 Vehicles are destroyed amid an onslaught of attacks kamikaze drone on May 30, 2023 in Kyiv Using Shaheds allows Russia to avoid putting sophisticated aircraft and pilots at risk and save its limited stock of expensive long-range precision missiles. Russia has managed to use the Shahed drones to effectively saturate targets, whether a fuel depot or infrastructure and utilities like power or water stations. They have done so by using them alongside intelligence drones. But Ukraine has said they have managed to shoot down a vast majority of the drones - more than 80 per cent - by using machine guns and portable anti-air missiles. As the conflict essentially becomes one of attrition, Russia's success in finding cheaper but still potent weapons will continue to be a major advantage. A high school has come under fire for using $4,000 in left over Covid funds to pay for a Pride Day drag show event. Democratic mayor of Manchester, New Hampshire, Joyce Craig approved the grant for Manchester West High School - who will pay up to $500 to drag performers at the event on Friday. News of the funds being approved sparked fury from Republicans who raised questions over whether it was an acceptable use of the funds provided for pandemic relief. 'Is this really the best use of taxpayer funds?' New Hampshire Department of Education Commissioner and Republican Frank Edelblut told Newsweek. It comes amid division over LGBT issues, including companies such as Bud Light being boycotted after partnering with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. Democratic mayor of Manchester Joyce Craig (pictured), who is contemplating a gubernatorial bid, approved the controversial grant Manchester West High School (pictured), who are paying $500 to drag performers, are hosting the event on June 2 News of the funds being approved sparked fury from Republicans including Frank Edelblut (right) who raised questions over whether it was an acceptable use of the funds provided for pandemic relief Target, meanwhile, faced widespread backlash over its Pride display, which included 'tuck-friendly women's swimwear. In fact, the company's share prices continued to plummet for an eighth-straight day on Tuesday as the retailer faces its biggest losing streak in five years. The high school's application requested $4,000 in funds from the city's American Rescue Plan for items such as photo booth film, decorations, food chafers, Pride decorations and drag performers. Manchester West art teacher Richella Simard wrote: 'We are looking to get equipment that is sustainable and durable for many more Pride celebrations and activities at West to come.' Her application was backed by the principal Richard Dichard who told Newsweek: 'We are thankful for the grant money which will not only support this event, but many others that we hold for all students at West High School.' One outraged parent, who has not been named, said the Manchester schools should focus on 'graduation rates, reading scores and effectively tackling issues like bullying' rather than 'allocating resources and attention toward irrelevant events like drag shows'. This misplaced emphasis is a clear indication that the district is failing in its fundamental duties towards our students,' the parent wrote, according to the NH Journal. 'Taxpayer dollars should not be sponsoring drag shows.' But superintendent Jennifer Gillis told Newsweek that the High School has hosted a Pride event since 2018 and this event 'is similar to other years'. She added that it was an 'opt-in event' and that in prior years it has been 'well-attended'. The group organizing the event this year applied and successfully received a Community Event and Activation Grant from American Rescue Plan Act funds through the city of Manchester. Last month, controversy grew over gender identity and LGBT issues as Florida banned teaching students about gender identity and sexual orientation in a sweeping move announced by Ron DeSantis's (pictured) board of education When cities were handed the Covid relief funds, guidelines were set on how they could use the money. Although LGBT events were not specifically mentioned, cities were given flexibility on how to most appropriately use the funds. For example, they were able to spend the money on 'responding to the public health and negative economic impacts of the pandemic.' The grant application is likely to raise more questions over gender identity in the US. Last month, Florida banned teaching students about gender identity and sexual orientation in a sweeping move announced by Ron DeSantis's board of education. The Republican, who formally announced his presidential bid, sparked a firestorm across the country when he launched his The Parental Rights in Education law - also dubbed the 'Don't Say Gay' bill by critics. Critics of the policy claim it could harm children who identify as gay and transgender. While the previous version of the law prohibited instruction of these topics to children ages 5 through 8, and the expansion would now apply to students up to the age of 18. Some 80 Wagner fighters were killed and a further 119 wounded in Bakhmut Ukraine has revealed its forces have killed scores of Russian Wagner mercenaries as they tried to withdraw from the embattled city of Bakhmut. Some 80 Wagner fighters were killed and a further 119 were wounded after Ukrainian troops attacked their positions as they retreated from the eastern city, a Ukrainian military spokesman said. Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin announced last week his mercenary units are retreating from Bakhmut and being replaced by Russian paratroopers and motorised units after he admitted 20,000 of his troops had been killed in the battle for the city. The battle for Bakhmut has raged for nearly one year, levelling the industrial hub and wiping out waves of Wagner recruits who have led the assault. And Serhiy Cherevatyi, spokesman for the eastern group of Ukrainian forces, has revealed that 80 Wagner fighters were killed by Ukrainian forces as they withdrew from the city. Ukraine has revealed its forces have killed scores of Russian Wagner mercenaries as they tried to withdraw from the embattled city of Bakhmut. Pictured: Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin with his mercenaries in Bakhmut on May 20 Ukrainian soldiers ride a mine resistant ambush protected near the city of Bakhmut on May 30 Cherevatyi told news outlet Ukrinform: 'In recent days, we have seen a significant decrease in fighting, there were 2-3 clashes. This day there were none at all. 'The enemy continues to rotate, withdrawing the 'Wagner' group, replacing it with units of airborne troops and motorized infantry.' He said Wagner's withdrawal from Bakhmut 'has a depressing effect on those who take their place'. 'They themselves have already taken part in a lot of fighting, this is the second or third group that comes in, plus they see the condition of the criminals from Wagner mercenaries.' Cherevatyi said Ukraine's military was conducting 'a reorganisation and other military moves... so that further movement can be even more successful in terms of hitting the enemy'. Russia's Wagner private army began handing over positions to regular troops this week after declaring full control of Bakhmut following the longest and bloodiest battle of the war. 'We are withdrawing units from Bakhmut today. We are handing over positions to the military, ammunition and everything,' Prigozhin said in a video on Thursday. 'We pull back, we rest, we prepare and then we will get new tasks,' Prigozhin told his troops on the front lines. Prigozhin is withdrawing having largely achieved his goals to wrestle Bakhmut from Ukrainian control - but Kyiv has refused to acknowledge the city is completely lost. But his success has come at a grave cost. Earlier this week, the Wagner boss conceded about 20,000 of his troops had been killed in the battle for Bakhmut, roughly 10,000 of whom were recruited from Russian jails. A Ukrainian soldier covers his ears while firing a mortar at Russian positions on the frontline near Bakhmut, Donetsk, Ukraine, on May 29 Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was withdrawing his forces from Bakhmut and handing over their positions to regular Russian troops last week The figures are the result of the group's inhumane WWI-style human wave tactics that see recruits used as cannon fodder for Ukrainian bullets and artillery fire. Not only were Wagner battalions sent to the battlefield with little to no training and expected to cover ground under heavy artillery fire, but they were forced to do so with little support from the regular Russian army. Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin, the man nicknamed 'Putin's chef' who is behind the Wagner Group ? Nicknamed 'Putin's chef' due to owning a number of restaurants and catering firms that supply the Kremlin, Yevgeny Prigozhin is the oligarch founder of the notorious Wagner Group. Prigozhin was born in the Soviet Union on June 1 1961, before spending a period of time in jail for numerous crimes including fraud and robbery, during his teens. After spending nine years in prison, Prigozhin launched a number of businesses following the collapse of the Soviet Union, including grocery and gambling firms. In 2014, Prigozhin founded Wagner Group during Russia's first invasion of Ukraine. The mercenary group has since become notorious for doing the Russian military's dirty work, leaving behind trails of brutal violence, rape and war crimes. Prigozhin long denied any affiliation with the group until September 2022, when he admitted to founding the mercenary force. He is often seen on the frontlines of the conflict with Ukraine, criticising Russian military leadership and accusing them of starving Wagner troops of supplies. Advertisement Prigozhin on several occasions accused Moscow's army units of desertion and retreat, leaving Wagner men exposed in key pinch points. Yesterday, the Wagner chief unleashed an explosive tirade of abuse at Vladimir Putin's cronies after Moscow was attacked yesterday morning by suspected Ukrainian kamikaze drones. In a furious 70-second rant, Prigozhin screamed vulgar insults at Russia's defence officials, whom he described as 'smelly scumbags' and 'b*******'. The Wagner boss said he was 'deeply outraged' by Putin's troops doing 'f*** all' to prevent explosive drones falling on the Russian capital this morning. Shortly after, Putin claimed that Moscow's air defence system worked 'satisfactorily'. Known for his foul-mouthed rants, Prigozhin, who handed Bakhmut over to Russia's army last week, was translated as shouting: 'Smelly scumbags! What are you doing? Get your a**** up from the offices you've been put in to protect this country. 'You are the Ministry of Defence. You've done f*** all in order to advance. Why the f*** are you allowing these drones to fly to Moscow? Who gives a s*** that they are flying to your homes on Rublyovka! Let your houses burn.' 'And what should ordinary people do when drones with explosives crash into their windows? So as a citizen, I am deeply outraged that these scum sit quietly with their fat a**** smeared with expensive creams. 'And that's why I think the people have every right to ask them these questions, these b*******. 'But I have already warned about this many times, but no one wants to listen. Because I'm angry and I upset bureaucrats who have a great life.' His astonishing meltdown comes after several buildings in the wealthy suburbs of Moscow were damaged by suspected Ukrainian kamikaze drones, just hours after Putin unleashed yet another volley of strikes on Kyiv. Meanwhile, over the weekend, Kyiv indicated that its forces were ready to launch a long-promised counteroffensive to recapture territory taken by Russia in the 15 months of the war. 'Throughout its history, Kyiv has seen various meanness from invaders. It has survived them all, and it will survive the (Russians),' Zelensky said on Sunday. The parents of dead fraudster Melissa Caddick have been offered nearly $1m to surrender their claim to a multimillion-dollar Sydney apartment bought in their daughter's name. Ted and Barbara Grimley had previously argued they should be able to continue living in the Edgecliff apartment after claiming they had contributed more than $1m to its purchase. Their claim sparked a fiery battle with Caddick's defrauded investors, who believe the property should be sold to recoup some of the $23m stolen from them by the vanished financial adviser. Caddick vanished in November 2020, a day after the Australian Securities and Investments Commission raided her Dover Heights home in connection with her alleged financial scam. Earlier this month, a coronial inquest determined the conwoman had died after her foot washed up on a beach, but it could not determine when, how, and where she died. Melissa Caddick vanished in November 2020, after ASIC raided her home in connection with her alleged financial scam Ted and Barbara Grimley argued they should be able to continue living in their Edgecliff apartment after claiming they had contributed more than $1million to its purchase The finding has not brought any relief to her dozens of conned investors, who have collaborated in an effort to recover their money through the sale of Caddick's property. On Wednesday, the Federal Court was told the fraudster's court-appointed receivers had offered to pay her parents $950,000 to vacate the Edgecliff property. The receivers' lawyer, Vanessa Whittaker, told the court the $950,000 offer 'is the only way forward' for all parties involved. 'It represents the amount the parents ask in return for effectively releasing the property from their possession which will enable the property to be (sold),' she said. The funds from the sale of the eastern suburbs apartment would then be available for distribution to the group of wronged investors, the court was told. Ms Whittaker said the receivers had endeavoured to keep investors informed about the offer as it evolved. 'It's been an evolving process by which the amount of information provided has made it plain to all stakeholders that it's not a perfect outcome, but it's a much better outcome than they would get by following it all the way,' she said. 'We don't see a realistic universe in which the investors can do or will do better.' Caddick's parents contributed an estimated $1.2million to the purchase of the $2.55m apartment, under her name, in Sydneys east The defrauded out-of-pocket investors will be given a final chance to raise concerns about the offer, but the receivers' lawyer said the lack of objection so far 'is tantamount to assent'. Lawyers for the investors and the Grimleys - who are not accused of any wrongdoing - told the court they did not oppose the settlement. If the order was made by the court, the receivers would take possession of the apartment within six weeks. Justice Brigitte Markovic adjourned the matter to June 5. Documents will only be disclosed to the Covid-19 inquiry 'where it is appropriate', a Cabinet minister said today amid a stand-off with the head of the investigation. As the dispute between the Cabinet Office and the inquiry over the release of Boris Johnson's documents rumbled on, Mel Stride said the Government was prepared to be 'absolutely robustly transparent' where necessary. The Cabinet Office has claimed it does not have access to Mr Johnson's WhatsApp messages and private notebooks which were demanded by inquiry chairwoman Baroness Hallett and the Government has a wider objection to the release of 'unambiguously irrelevant' material. The inquiry has set a deadline of 4pm on Thursday to hand over Mr Johnson's messages, notebooks and official diaries, having granted a 48-hour extension on Tuesday. Lady Hallett demanded a witness statement from a senior civil servant accompanied by a statement of truth confirming the documents are not held if the Cabinet Office fails to produce them by the new deadline. Work and Pensions Secretary Mr Stride told Sky News: 'I'm absolutely certain and confident that the Cabinet Office will be engaged in this in exactly the right kind of way, and in the kind of spirit that I've just outlined and making sure that we are absolutely robustly transparent where it is appropriate to be so. 'I think that's an important qualification, so that the inquiry has all the information that it is right for it to have.' It came after Mr Johnson's allies last night said he had 'no objection' to disclosing material to the official Covid inquiry as the deadline for handing over unredacted messages was extended. No 10 denied accusations of a cover-up, and said there is no requirement to 'permanently store or record every WhatsApp', with messages related to decision-making instead copied over to the official record. The spokesman said it is 'down to individuals to decide what personal information they are able to hand over'. As the dispute between the Cabinet Office and the inquiry over the release of Boris Johnson's documents rumbled on, Mel Stride said the Government was prepared to be 'absolutely robustly transparent' where necessary. Boris Johnson pictured leaving his house on March 22, as he fights demands to hand over records of his private conversations An ally of the former PM alleged he had become a 'distraction' in the row and said the 'WhatsApps the Government really doesn't want disclosed are Sunak's' a claim dismissed by No 10. Sunak snubs Johnson's call for talks Rishi Sunak has snubbed Boris Johnson's bid for a 'clear-the-air' meeting this week. Initial discussions were held by No 10 and the former prime minister's office about holding a telephone call but it will now not go ahead. The meeting had been billed by the former PM's allies as an opportunity to discuss his honours list. Several Tory MPs are believed to have been put forward for peerages which, if confirmed, would force the Conservatives to fight risky by-elections at a time of dire opinion polling. But it is understood that no meeting was confirmed before the reports surfaced and time could not be found in Mr Sunak's busy diary. Advertisement It emerged last night that the Government has received legal advice to block the release of 'politically sensitive' material about the pandemic. Bloomberg reported that documents detailing discussions between senior ministers during the Covid crisis should not be disclosed 'as a matter of course' to avoid undermining the principle of collective responsibility. Mr Sunak insisted yesterday the Government was acting 'in a spirit of transparency and candour'. But Lady Hallett has demanded a witness statement from a senior civil servant, accompanied by a statement of truth confirming the documents are not held, if the Cabinet Office fails to produce them. According to the notice seeking the unredacted messages, the inquiry is requesting conversations between Mr Johnson and a host of officials, including chief medical officer Professor Sir Chris Whitty, then-health secretary Matt Hancock, former top aide Dominic Cummings and then-chancellor Mr Sunak. Last week, Lady Hallett rejected arguments the inquiry's request was unlawful and claimed the Cabinet Office had 'misunderstood the breadth of the investigation'. A Cabinet Office spokesman said last night they are 'fully committed to our obligations' to the inquiry, adding: 'However, we are firmly of the view the inquiry does not have the power to request unambiguously irrelevant information that is beyond the scope of this investigation. This includes the WhatsApp messages of Government employees which are not about work.' Former head of the Civil Service Lord Kerslake told the BBC yesterday: 'There's some cover-up going on to save embarrassment of ministers, but there's also the Cabinet Office fighting for a principle of confidentiality. I think they're misguided on this situation. I actually think it would set a helpful precedent if Lady Hallett prevailed in this fight about the information.' Will Covid inquiry give Tories an election lift? The official Covid inquiry will hold its first hearings on the success of the vaccine rollout before the next general election in a potential boost for the Government. But public hearings about what went wrong in care homes will not be held until the spring of 2025 long after the country has gone to the polls. While the timetable is a matter for the inquiry, not ministers, it is likely to be helpful for the Conservative Government. The vaccine rollout was widely considered a success with ministers quick to sign contracts for millions of doses of vaccines. But the decision in the early stages of the pandemic to discharge potentially infectious Covid patients from hospitals into care homes without prior testing has come under heavy criticism. The inquiry is split into different investigations which will look at the country's preparedness for and response to the pandemic. The first hearings on preparedness and resilience will begin in a fortnight, while modules on core political and administrative decision making and the impact of the pandemic on healthcare systems will be heard later this year and early next. Inquiry chairman Baroness Hallett announced yesterday that she aims to conclude public hearings by summer 2026. 'Last year, I promised I would work hard to ensure the UK can learn useful lessons from the pandemic as quickly as possible,' she said. 'Today, I am providing greater clarity on our investigations.' The next general election could take place at any point until January 2025, but is widely expected to be held in the autumn of next year. The mother of a 12-year-old girl killed on Bournemouth beach say police still haven't explained how her daughter died. Sunnah Khan (left) had been swimming near a pier (top right) with her siblings when she was pulled under the water on Wednesday afternoon, May 31. She, along with 17-year-old Joe Abbess (inset left) - who had been at the beach with friends - was fatally injured and later died in hospital despite the best efforts of medics and lifeguards. Authorities say Sunnah drowned but her mother Stephanie Williams, 32, has been left frustrated as she says she still hasn't been given full answers over the circumstances of her death. It comes as Dorset Police said it is keeping 'open mind' as to the causes of the tragedy and officers are also looking into the weather, wind conditions and state of the water at the time. This is despite arresting a man in his 40s on suspicion of manslaughter - who has since been released under investigation - and impounding the 78ft Dorset Belle pleasure boat (bottom right) which was in the area at the time. A grandfather who was bashed and robbed at gunpoint by a gang of masked men frightened them into fleeing by 'playing dead'. Dimos Scoullis, 81, and his wife 76-year-old wife Vicky had their home in Carlton, south Sydney, invaded by three masked and armed men shortly before 11pm on Tuesday. Ms Scoullis, who was asleep on the couch downstairs, was held down by one of the intruders while the other two went upstairs. There they found Mr Scoullis in the couple's bedroom where they bashed him they and put a gun to his head, demanding money. Dimos Scoullis, who runs the Hellenic Patisserie in Marrickville in Sydney's inner-west with his wife and their sons, was robbed at gunpoint by three masked men on Tuesday night - but panicked them into fleeing when he played dead Vicky Scoullis, 76, was asleep on the sofa when the intruders entered, with one of them pinning her down But Mr Scoullis then played dead, panicking the robbers into thinking they had killed him. They fled the house with a small amount of cash and a safe in the elderly couple's Toyota Camry. But the hapless burglars crashed the car 15 metres down the road because they could not drive manual. Mr Scoullis was hospitalised with head injuries after the terrifying incident. Their son George said his father 'did what he had to do to keep mum safe'. 'Mum, mentally she's struggling a bit,' he told 9News. 'Physically she's okay. Dad is the opposite, he is more physical, he has been hurt but mentally he's one of those old, tough guys.' The thieves made off in the elderly couple's Toyota Camry but crashed it 15 metres down the road because they could not drive manual The couple's son, George, said his dad was an 'old, tough guy' but his mum is struggling mentally with the violent robbery Commander Rohan Cramsie of NSW Police said: 'This is the scenario that nightmares are made of.' The police believe it was a targeted attack because the thieves seemed to know where certain things were in the house. The couple run the popular Hellenic Patisserie in Marrickville in Sydney's inner-west. Police are investigating the robbery. An interactive map has revealed the areas with the largest rise in speeding convictions - as an increase in 20mph zones is blamed for a surge in fines. Some 236,480 motorists were successfully prosecuted for exceeding the speed limit in England and Wales in 2022, according to analysis of Government data by Churchill Motor Insurance. It is the highest number of drivers convicted for speeding offences since 2014, when records began, and a 16 per cent rise on 2021. Motoring organisations blamed the prominence of 20mph zones and variable speed limits for catching out and penalising drivers. Campaign group 20mph Places told The Telegraph there are an estimated 28 million people now living in areas where their local council have set the lower speed limit. Your browser does not support iframes. Motoring lawyer Nick Freeman, nicknamed Mr Loophole after successfully representing a number of celebrity clients, also told the newspaper it is 'literally impossible' for drivers to stay within the 20mph speed limit. He added: 'I hit the Edgware Road and my car would not go 20mph. I am being serious. I am driving with no foot on the accelerator. When the speed limit is artificially, ridiculously low, it is literally impossible to comply with. 'So many people are getting done at 24mph or 25mph. It is just wrong. It is punitive for motorists. It is too low. It needs to be more sensible. It should be increased to 25mph and only 20mph at school pick-up and drop-off times.' In London, every major road in five boroughs became a 20mph zone in March, with Sadiq Khan understood to have set a target of of enforcing a million speeding offences in the capital every year. It comes despite a study by Queen's University last year finding that, while speed limits, reduce traffic they do little to stop accidents. The RAC said the figures indicate there has been a rise in serious speeding cases and make for 'grim reading'. Your browser does not support iframes. Nottingham was the police force area that saw the largest year-on-year increase in 2022, with the number of convictions more than doubling from 4,089 to 9,444. This was followed by Gloucestershire (up 100 per cent), Leicestershire (up 92 per cent) and Derbyshire (up 86 per cent). The analysis found that nearly three out of four people taken to court for speeding were convicted. Most people caught speeding are handed a 100 fine and either penalty points or offered to participate in a retraining course. More than a third of the UK's 120 councils have introduced 20mph zones, The Telegraph reports. Transport for London will have lower speed limits imposed on more than a third of its roads by next year - decreasing roads from 20mph to 20mph and 40mph to 30mph. In March, TfL announced new limits in Camden, Islington, Hackney, Haringey and Tower Hamlets covering 17 miles of roads including major routes such as Euston Road, Pentonville Road, Mile End Road and Seven Sisters Road. The changes are part of plans by Transport for London (TfL) to cut the speed limit by 10mph on a further 87 miles of roads in inner and outer London by May 2024. This would take the overall total of reduced limits to 137 miles by the end of next year - a target which is part of Mr Khan's 'Vision Zero' goal that aims to eliminate death and serious injury from the capital's transport network. Motoring lawyer Nick Freeman, nicknamed Mr Loophole after successfully representing a number of celebrity clients, says it is 'literally impossible' for drivers to stay within the 20mph speed limit A car passes a 20mph speed limit sign in Morden, south west London, amid an increase in the zones across the capital But it has been cited as the latest example of Mr Khan's assault on motorists amid the ULEZ expansion in August and the installation of of high-tech enforcement cameras. But speed limits of 20mph have 'little impact' on crashes, casualties and driver speed, a study concluded in November last year. The three-year study of a 20mph rollout across Belfast suggests the measure has not made much difference, except for reducing traffic volume. Researchers from Queen's University Belfast, Edinburgh University and the University of Cambridge collected data on traffic collisions, casualties, driver speed and traffic volume before a 20mph limit was introduced, as well as one and three years afterwards. Their study encompassed 76 streets in the city centre, and they compared data with that collected from nearby streets where the restrictions did not apply. Analysis showed that when compared with the sites that had retained their speed limits, a 20mph speed limit was associated with little change in short or long-term outcomes for road traffic collisions, casualties, or driver speed. Sadiq Khan is understood to have set a target of of enforcing a million speeding offences in the capital every year Nicholas Mantel, head of Churchill Motor Insurance, said: 'Speeding is one of the main causes of road accidents and our research suggests that the problem is getting worse. 'Many drivers accidentally creep above the limit rather than speeding deliberately. While most people receive a fixed penalty notice for speeding, more serious or contested cases end up in court. 'This data shows that drivers who appear in court for speeding are usually convicted, and the fines are deservedly steep.' RAC road safety spokesperson Simon Williams added: 'These figures make for grim reading as speeding is a contributory factor in far too many road collisions. 'The fact the number of court convictions has risen in just a year seems to imply an increase in the proportion of serious cases having to be dealt with in legal proceedings. 'While it is clearly wrong to be just a few miles an hour over the limit, arguably it is prolific excessive speeders who are putting peoples lives in danger. An increase in these drivers will have frightening consequences for the safety of our roads. 'And, although its positive that those breaking the law are being caught, it would be far better if drivers just stuck to speed limits as they are there for good reason.' Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov has blasted Vladimir Putin's war tactics for not being 'brutal' enough amid his invasion of Ukraine and demanded that Russia declare martial law. The strongman, previously seen as a close Kremlin ally, said the drone onslaught on Moscow this week showed a tougher response is needed from Russia's military that would see the war taken to NATO countries. 'Responses to such attempts to attack should not be harsh - they should be brutal,' Kadyrov said. 'In my opinion, it is necessary to declare martial law in Russia, to use all the combat resources intended for this, in order to sweep away this entire terrorist cell [in Ukraine] at once.' It comes after Wagner mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin also demanded martial law across Russia amid speculation he may be acting with unidentified figures within Putin's circle in a bid to oust the despot. Ramzan Kadyrov (right) blasted Vladimir Putin's war tactics for not being 'brutal' enough in his invasion of Ukraine Ramzan Kadyrov, leader of Chechnya and close Putin ally, rides the newly modernised T-72 ahead of its deployment to Ukraine Kadyrov said troops in Chechen units (pictured) have been ordered to deploy in the Russian-occupied Donetsk People's Republic War fanatic Kadyrov tied to allege that Ukraine had a 'Nazi' and 'Satanist' leadership. 'Hit on the places of accumulation of these terrorist leaders until [there is nothing left], so that the rest would not even think badly towards Russia.' The Chechen warlord demanded an escalation to the conflict that would see the war taken to NATO. 'European countries should think about who they sponsor and under what conditions they provide weapons,' he said. 'It will backfire when Russia knocks on the door, for example, of Germany or Poland. 'And there will be nothing to answer us with - all the weapons were spent on Ukraine.' He claimed: 'We will soon show in the special military operation zone what revenge is in the full sense of the word.' Kadyrov echoes Wagner mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in demanding martial law across Russia, and putting the country on a total war footing. Yet Putin has shirked the criticism of his fellow Russians, apparently fearing that the declaration of martial law would trigger resentment against his war. Kadyrov said troops in Chechen units have been ordered to deploy in the Russian-occupied Donetsk People's Republic. The Chechen warlord was promoted to colonel-general by Putin but it is not clear if he will lead his forces. Troops trained in Chechnya are set to be deployed to Ukraine in occupied Donetsk People's Republic The Chechen warlord Ramzan Kadyrov (left) was promoted to colonel-general by Putin Wagner mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin also demanded martial law across Russia, pictured May 25, 2023 This comes as Wagner forces have pulled out of war-ravaged Bakhmut, handing over the regular Russian army. 'Fighters of the Chechen units must begin active combat operations and liberate a number of settlements,' he said. 'Combat units are being prepared for assault activities with the active support of the Ministry of Defence and the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces.' Kadyrov has troops in both mainly Chechen troops in the Russian national guard and the army, now in occupied Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. 'Tactical preparation activities were carried out there, the distribution of tasks between commanders and fighters, and the study of the terrain and the disposition of enemy forces.' The fiancee of a former British soldier who was killed in a car crash in Ukraine after he travelled to the country to help fight against Russia says she had made a wedding ring on the day she learned of his death. Louise Lathbury's partner Julian Thorn, 36, from Hexham, Northumberland, died in the collision in Ukraine earlier this month after he travelled to the war-torn country in February last year to help train Kyiv's forces amid Vladimir Putin's invasion. Ms Lathbury said she had been designing their rings at a local workshop for their upcoming wedding earlier that day when she was informed of his death on May 21. His heartbroken fiancee is now facing a significant bill to repatriate his body to the UK. Ms Lathbury has set up a GoFundMe page to raise 15,000 to recover Julian's body from the war-torn nation. Ms Lathbury, originally from Berkshire, said Mr Thorn's mother and grandfather were also desperate to bring him back to the UK, saying it would mean 'everything to bring him back whole'. Louise Lathbury's (left) partner Julian Thorn (right), 36, from Hexham, Northumberland, died 'instantly' in a car crash in Ukraine earlier this month. She was informed of his death on May 21 Julian Thorn, 36, (pictured in Ukraine) from Hexham, Northumberland, died in the collision in Ukraine and his heartbroken fiancee is now facing a 10,000 bill to repatriate his body to the UK Louise Lathbury said his death has 'left a void in my heart that can never be filled' as she launched a fundraising drive to bring back his body. She said he died 'instantly' in the crash, which was confirmed by a colleague in Ukraine and the Foreign Office. The British sniper, also known as Jay, had done humanitarian work helping refugees on the Ukraine-Poland border as well as training locals on military equipment sent over from the UK. The 36-year-old, who served in the Fusiliers and did tours of Afghanistan before he met Ms Lathbury, had travelled to Ukraine as it was 'something he felt strongly about and wanted to share the skills he had'. Speaking about what it would mean to bring him home to Northumberland, Ms Lathbury said: 'It would mean everything because we need to bring him back whole. 'He needs to come back and he needs to be him and so then we can do what's right for him when we get him home. 'I want him to have a nice send-off and be where he loved - he loved Hadrian's Wall and he loved Northumberland and I just want him to come back and be in the place he loved so much.' Ms Lathbury was told of her partner's death on May 21 - the day she had made a wedding ring. Julian Thorn, 36, jetted to Ukraine to help fight against Russian troops. He was killed in a car crash in the country earlier this month The British sniper, known to his friends and family as Jay, had travelled to Ukraine in February last year to help train Ukrainian forces amid Vladimir Putin's invasion She said: 'To be honest I didn't believe it was real and I did ask, 'Are you sure it's him? Are you sure it's him?' 'But the other thing is we were talking about the wedding and everything and I'd made his wedding ring on that Sunday - and then you think, did I tempt fate by making it? 'You do, you think silly things like that when it happens. 'I was devastated - it was a surprise and I was going to give it to him when he got back.' Ms Lathbury, who had been with Mr Thorn for four years, said she was left devastated by his death and that it had 'left a void in my heart'. She said any money left over from the GoFundMe campaign would be donated to another family attempting to repatriate a loved one's body and to an animal charity. Ms Lathbury added: 'The thing with Jay is I don't think it was just the Ukraine situation - if he could help he wanted to help no matter what it was. 'He loved animals - we've got rescue animals all over the place because he just wanted to help.' Thorn's partner Louise Lathbury said his death has 'left a void in my heart that can never be filled' as she launched a fundraising drive to bring back his body. Pictured: Julian Thorn Louise has now set up a GoFundMe page as she and Thorn's family aim to raise 15,000 to bring the ex soldier's body home Thorn, who previously ran a pub in the village of Allendale, spent eight years in the army before travelling to Ukraine to help troops there in February last year. Louise told the ChronicleLive: 'He was hard on the outside and soft on the inside. He had that exterior of being tough and he was tough but he was a big softy inside. He just wanted to do some good. 'He had been going back and forward [to Ukraine] since the war started,' said Louise. 'He was doing a bit of everything over there. He was training a lot of soldiers, because he's ex military and he was supporting different units. 'He felt he had skills that could be used there. It was something he felt he had to do.' Louise and Thorn, who met in a pub in Reading in 2019, said they had kept in touch while he was in Ukraine via a secure messaging app. 'We messaged every day and called as often as we could,' she said. 'I worried about him all the time.' A Foreign Office spokesman said: 'We are providing support to the family of a British man following his death in Ukraine, and are in touch with the local authorities.' A toddler discovered by police in a Melbourne house with his mother's body could have been there alone for up to two days. Officers went to the apartment on Cottrell St in Werribee in the city's west about 11.40am Wednesday on a welfare check and found the dead woman. The child was unharmed but was taken to hospital as a precaution before being released into the care of distraught relatives. Police said the woman's death is not being treated as suspicious but investigations into the cause are still underway. The apartment building contains a mix of social housing and private residences, with one neighbour complaining it was 48 hours between when the welfare check was first called in and officers showing up. Police were called to the building on Cottrell Street in Werribee in Melbourne's west (pictured) on Wednesday Police released a statement on Wednesday evening. 'Officers conducted a welfare check at a Cottrell Street address and located a woman deceased, about 11.40am,' a spokesperson said. 'A post-mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death, however, at this stage it appears non-suspicious. 'A young child was found unharmed... They have been taken to hospital as a precaution and are now being cared for by relatives.' The shocking incident has left the building abuzz with chatter. One resident told The Herald Sun there was talk the woman hadn't been seen for more than a week. 'I've been told by her direct neighbour that the keypads for her room hadn't been used for nine to 10 days,' Matt Giannelis said. 'It (the welfare check) had been reported two days earlier and they (police) didn't take a look at it... It's disappointing to say the least.' Another resident said the building has an electronic key system that prevents most residents from accessing the woman's floor, level five, which could be the reason the child wasn't heard if they had been knocking or trying to get help. The boy, accused of carrying out a shooting at a school in Perth's northern suburbs has been granted bail - but he won't be going home. The 15-year-old, who can't be named, appeared in Perth Children's Court on Wednesday afternoon for a bail application hearing. Magistrate Alana Padmanabham ordered the boy to undergo a psychiatrist's assessment during a brief appearance on Tuesday. It was carried out on Wednesday morning, before it was delivered verbally to the court that afternoon. The psychiatrist said her assessment indicated that the boy did not pose a risk to the community or to himself. However, she noted that he did have mental health needs that require treatment, and that treatment can be adequately addressed in a custodial setting. Dramatic bodycam vision showed an officer force the 15-year-old boy, who was alleged to be WA's first school shooter, to the ground The 15-year-old (pictured), who can't be named, appeared in Perth Children's Court on Wednesday afternoon for a bail application hearing Ms Padmanabham determined while the boy wouldn't be released into the custody of his parents, he would be put in the care of a bail hostel until his next court appearance on July 12. He will also have a 24-hour curfew as part of his bail conditions, meaning he will not be allowed to leave the hostel. The magistrate said it was not a criticism but rather she had concerns over their ability to supervise him. State prosecutor Brad Hollingsworth strongly opposed bail on the grounds that the alleged offences were 'extremely serious' and the potential risk to the community was 'too great'. But Ms Padmanabham noted 'a child has a qualified right to bail' and she couldn't deny him bail despite the serious nature of the offences. WA Police charged the boy with seven offences following the incident last Wednesday. Police allege he fired three shots from a rifle in the carpark of Atlantis Beach Baptist College in the outer-northern Perth suburb of Two Rocks. Two of the three shots pierced the side of a demountable classroom, which had a student and staff member inside at the time, but no one was injured. Mr Hollingsworth on Wednesday also provided more details about the alleged incident and a triple-0 call the boy made in the moments after the shooting. Police have carried out a preliminary analysis of the boy's phone, and Mr Hollingsworth told the court that Snapchat messages between the boy and a friend indicated he intended to 'shoot up the school' and 'kill people'. Magistrate Alana Padmanabham had concerns over his parents' ability to supervise him. Pictured, the boy's parents leave court last week One featured a photo of the boy and the French phrase 'quelque chose de sinister' -'something sinister' in English. Search engine history allegedly found in the weeks leading up to the shooting showed that he had queried things like 'do people get solitary confinement for shooting' and questioned what education was like in juvenile detention. It was also revealed in court that the boy's mother had unenrolled him from Atlantis Beach Baptist College via email on May 23 - the day before the alleged shooting. He had missed school on a number of days in the lead-up to May 24. More details of the triple-0 call were also revealed; Mr Hollingsworth said the boy called emergency services immediately after the shooting, spoke calmly, alleged he had '200 rounds' of ammunition and didn't know if he had hurt anyone. Asked if he intended to hurt anyone anymore, he said 'not anymore', Mr Hollingworth told the court. 'He's calm, he's cool, he's collected, he's certainly not raving and carrying on like someone who's mentally unwell,' said Mr Hollingsworth, describing the call. 'He's not shouting, he's not saying things that don't make sense.' The boy has been held at Banksia Hill Juvenile Detention Centre since his arrest last Wednesday, appearing in court via video link due to ongoing problems at Banksia Hill making detainee transport difficult. Riots in recent months have significantly damaged the centre's infrastructure, and an ongoing shortage of prison guards is exacerbating the problem. Officers are seen entering through the main school entrance and walking through to a demountable classroom that had been struck by a bullet The boy will remain in Banksia Hill in the interim, as the bail hostel to which he has been assigned did not have an available place at the time of the bail hearing. The shooting placed the school into lockdown for about an hour, with the college partially closed until normal classes resumed on Monday. Outgoing WA Premier Mark McGowan held a media conference outside the school on Thursday after a tour of the college. He said there were too many guns in WA and talked up proposed gun law reforms he announced in April. He said, if passed, it would make WA's gun laws 'the toughest in Australia'. Leslie Van Houten, 73, who participated in two killings at the direction of cult leader Charles Manson in 1969, will be released from prison on parole. Van Houten is serving a life sentence after being convicted in 1971 of two counts of murder and one count of conspiracy to commit murder for helping Manson and other followers kill Leno LaBianca, a grocer in Los Angeles, and his wife, Rosemary. The California appellate court's ruling on Tuesday reverses an earlier decision by Governor Gavin Newsom, who rejected parole for Van Houten in 2022 and 2020. She has been recommended for parole five times since 2016. All of those recommendations were rejected by either Newsom or former Governor Jerry Brown. Newsom has said that Van Houten still poses a danger to society. In rejecting her parole, he said she offered an inconsistent and inadequate explanation for her involvement with Manson at the time of the killings. Anthony DiMaria, whose uncle Jay Sebring was killed by Manson and his followers along with Sharon Tate, said the judges' ruling is the latest painful twist that the victims' families have endured over the decades. 'To say the appellate court's decision is a travesty of justice is a perverse understatement,' DiMaria said in an email to The Associated Press. Leslie Van Houten at her parole hearing at the California Institution for Women in Corona, California Leslie Van Houten pictured in a Los Angeles lockup aged 22. The youngest follower of murderous cult leader Charles Manson will ask a state panel to recommend her for parole. 'When you look at the profound, horrific nature of her crimes and the historic scars she has dealt American culture, it is unconscionable that an appellate court would make amends for Leslie Van Houten.' Newsom could request that California Attorney General Rob Bonta petition the state Supreme Court to stop her release. Bonta's office referred questions to Newsom's office, which didn't respond to queries about possible next steps. The Second District Court of Appeal in Los Angeles ruled 2-1 to reverse Newsom's decision, writing there is 'no evidence to support the Governor's conclusions' about Van Houten's fitness for parole. The judges took issue with Newsom's claim that Van Houten did not adequately explain how she fell under Manson's influence. At her parole hearings, she discussed at length how her parents' divorce, her drug and alcohol abuse, and a forced illegal abortion led her down a path that left her vulnerable to him. They also argued against Newsom's suggestion that her past violent acts were a cause for future concern were she to be released. 'Van Houten has shown extraordinary rehabilitative efforts, insight, remorse, realistic parole plans, support from family and friends, favorable institutional reports, and, at the time of the Governors decision, had received four successive grants of parole,' the judges wrote. 'Although the Governor states Van Houten's historical factors 'remain salient,' he identifies nothing in the record indicating Van Houten has not successfully addressed those factors through many years of therapy, substance abuse programming, and other efforts.' The dissenting judge argued that there was some evidence Van Houten lacked insight into the heinous killings, and agreed with Newsom that her petition to be released should be denied. Nancy Tetreault, an attorney for Van Houten, said she expects Newsom to request that Bonta ask the state Supreme Court to review the lower court's decision, a process that could take years. In addition, Bonta will likely request a stay of the appellate courts ruling, Tetreault said. The high court could order Van Houten's release while it decides on whether to grant the stay. 'I will, of course, vigorously oppose any stay,' Tetreault said. 'And they could let her out during that process.' Van Houten - who was initially sentenced to death, but had the death penalty overturned and her sentence commuted to life in prison - was 19 when she and other cult members stabbed the LaBiancas to death in August 1969. She said they carved up Leno LaBianca's body and smeared the couple's blood on the walls. Another of Manson's followers, Patricia Krenwinkel wrote 'Rise' and 'Death to pigs' on the walls and 'Helter Skelter' on the refrigerator door, all in Rosemary LaBianca's blood, while another, Tex Watson, carved the word 'war' in capital letters into Leno's abdomen. Leno LaBianca was a grocery store owner, and Rosemary was also a successful business woman. They lived in the Los Angeles suburb of Los Feliz. Leno LaBianca, a grocer in Los Angeles, and his wife, Rosemary who were both killed by Charles Manson and his followers, which included Leslie Van Houten The slayings came the day after other Manson followers - not including Van Houten - killed pregnant actress Sharon Tate and four others in violence that spread fear across Los Angeles and captivated the nation. Van Houten was found suitable for parole after a July 2020 hearing, but her release was blocked by Newsom. She filed an appeal with a trial court, which rejected it. She then sought her release through the appellate courts. Hadar Aviram, a professor at UC College of the Law, San Francisco, said that for many years, some criminals seeking parole in California were kept in custody solely due to the heinousness of their past crimes, a practice that was stopped by a state Supreme Court ruling. Since then, state officials have made other arguments to block parole, such as claiming defendants lacked sufficient insight about their crimes, said Aviram, who wrote a book about the parole process in Manson-related cases. Van Houten, in particular, has largely stayed out of trouble since being incarcerated and has an advanced degree, Aviram said, adding that the law also requires that her young age at the time of her crimes be taken into account. 'There is no reason whatsoever to keep her behind bars except for the politics and optics of it,' she said. It is over half a century since the 1967 Summer of Love, when Van Houten and her boyfriend ran away to San Franciscos Haight-Ashbury District when she was 17. She was traveling along California's coast when friends introduced her to Charles Manson, who was living at an abandoned movie ranch on the outskirts of Los Angeles. Charles Manson followers, from left: Susan Atkins, Patricia Krenwinkel and Leslie Van Houten, shown walking to court to appear for their roles in the 1969 cult killings of seven people, including pregnant actress Sharon Tate, in Los Angeles, Calif., Aug. 20, 1970. Charles Manson was the leader of a group of cultists who engaged in a frenzy of killing in the summer of 1969, culminating in the murder of the actress Sharon Tate and her unborn child. He died of natural causes not long after this photo was taken There he recruited what he called a 'family' to survive what he predicted would be a race war that he planned to start by committing a series of random, terrifying murders. Manson formed the cult in 1967, after being discharged from prison on prostitution charges, comprising mainly young women from California. Together they became known as the 'Manson Family.' They did drugs, such as LSD and magic mushrooms, and eventually many of the young girls began to believe Manson's claims that he was Jesus and his prophecies of a race war. Manson was influenced not only by the drugs, though, but also by works of art and music from the time, most notably The Beatles song 'Helter Skelter' from the 1968 White Album. A former Metropolitan Police constable has appeared in court today charged with five counts of rape against one woman in attacks that were allegedly carried out in the two years before he joined the force. Jade Ebanks, 29, from north London, who resigned as a Met PC in April this year, allegedly raped the woman between 13 March 2018 and 1 August 2020. Three of the acts were said to have taken place in Greenford, Ealing, and two in Uxbridge, Hillingdon. PC Ebanks joined the Met in June 2021 and was placed on patrol in Brent. He was arrested on May 5 last year before being suspended from duty. He resigned a week before he was charged on April 28 this year. Former Metropolitan Police officer Jade Ebanks at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday PC Ebanks joined the Met in June 2021 and patrolled areas of Brent. He was arrested on May 5 last year before being suspended from duty Appearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court today wearing a black suit and skinny tie, Ebanks spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth. He was bailed ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing on 28 June at Isleworth Crown Court. District Judge Briony Clarke told Ebanks: 'The offences that you face are matters that I can't deal with, I have to send them to the Crown Court.' Ebanks, of Kilburn, northwest London, was granted bail on the condition that he does not contact, directly or indirectly, the complainant in this case. One of the nation's largest-ever drug busts has been made on board a container ship off Western Australia. Approximately 900kg of cocaine was found on the bulk carrier, St Pinot, by three law enforcement agencies at the Kwinana Bulk Terminal. The drugs, believed to have come from South America are estimated to have a street value of at least $375million. The seizure was the result of a joint investigation by the Australian Federal Police, Australian Border Force and WA Police. It is the third major cocaine seizure made in WA in recent months. Officers from the AFP, Border Force and WA Police were present when the St Pinot, sailing under the flag of Marshall Islands, was searched leading to the seizure of 900kg of cocaine The St Pinot left the port of San Lorenzo, in Argentina on April 16 before stopping at Petrobras and La Plata, also in the South American nation, before reaching Fremantle five weeks later Officers from all three agencies were present when the ship, sailing under the flag of Marshall Islands, was searched. Footage of the police operation showed Australian law enforcement agents being lowered inside the haul of the carrier to conduct their search. 'The AFP, Australian Border Force (ABF) and WA Police Force are searching a cargo vessel as part of an ongoing operation,' an AFP spokesperson confirmed to Daily Mail Australia on Wednesday evening. The St Pinot left the port of San Lorenzo, in Argentina on April 16 before stopping at Petrobras and La Plata, also in the South American nation. It took just over five weeks to reach Fremantle before sailing south to Kwinana. Police are yet to reveal if any arrests have been made yet in connection with the seizure. It is the third industrial-scale cocaine capture by Australian authorities in WA in recent times. In March, Australian police thwarted an attempt by a Mexican cartel to bring 2.4tonnes of cocaine worth $1billion into the country. US authorities intercepted the shipment off the South American coast in late November and alerted WA Police. The record haul was linked back to one of Mexico's oldest and most violent criminal organisations, the notorious Gulf Cartel, also known as the Cartel del Golfo. The covert international operation saw police drop a fake shipment of cocaine about 40 nautical miles west of Perth, where a shore party allegedly made multiple efforts to locate and retrieve it leading to their arrests Australian authorities switched the drugs with fake packages filled with plaster-of-paris before then dropping them off in the ocean 80 kilometres off the coast of WA. A shore party then allegedly made multiple efforts to locate and retrieve it - as police kept a close watch. Police arrested 12 people in connection with the bust. In February a 330kg cocaine seizure was made off the coast of Albany when an upturned boat carrying the drugs washed ashore. The AFP arrested three people in connection with the incident. A 35-year-old New Jersey attorney has been arrested on suspicion of a string of sexual assaults and kidnappings in Boston - after cops connected him to the crimes 15 years later using genetic genealogy. Matthew Nilo was arrested without incident on Tuesday at his Weehawken home in New Jersey over alleged attacks on four victims in the Terminal Street area of Charlestown in 2007 and 2008. The cyber attorney is charged with aggravated rape, two counts of kidnapping, one count of assault with intent to rape, and one count of indecent assault and battery. He was detained by members of the Boston Police Department, FBI Boston, FBI Newark, and the Hudson County Sheriff's Office. He will be returned to Massachusetts in the coming days to face the charges. Matthew Nilo, 35, who once lived in the North End, was arrested at his home in Weehawken, New Jersey, on Tuesday, more than 15 years after he allegedly terrorized four victims in the Terminal Street area FBI Boston special agent Joseph Bonavolonta said investigators used forensic genealogy to find him, and his DNA has been linked to cases spanning from August 18 2007 until December 23 2008. Nilo has reportedly been suspended by his employer Cowbell in light of the investigation He told a press conference the four victims have been 'waiting years' to learn the identity of their alleged assailant. 'We certainly realize that identifying this individual does not ease their pain nothing can, but hopefully it answers some questions,' Bonavolonta said. 'Today's arrest is the direct result of the FBI's use of investigative genetic genealogy, a unique method used to generate new leads in unsolved sex assaults.' Genetic genealogy is the practice of using a public database of DNA to link suspects to genetic material left behind at the scene of a crime. Accused rapist Nilo is originally from the Boston area and he was a law student at the time of the alleged attacks. Investigators have said he has also lived in Wisconsin, California and New York. Anyone who thinks they could have been a victim, or who has information on any of the cases, should contact Boston Police or the FBI. Nilo's employer, Cowbell, has suspended him while the investigation develops. FBI Boston special agent Joseph Bonavolonta said investigators used forensic genealogy to link Nilo to the crimes dating back to 2007 and 2008 Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox at the press conference about accused rapist, attorney Matthew Nilo The insurance company told DailyMail.com: 'Matthew Nilo was an employee of Cowbell and was hired in January, 2023 after passing our background check. 'Mr Nilo's employment at Cowbell has been suspended pending further investigation.' According to Nilo's Linkedin profile, before he started at Cowbell he was an associate at Atheria Law in New York for three years, after working for Clyde & Co in San Francisco, California for more than five years. He studied for a doctorate at the University of San Francisco School of Law from 2012 until 2015, after graduating with a Psychology degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2010. Nilo was studying at the latter college when the alleged crimes took place. It was previously believed that the analysis could take months German cops investigating Madeleine McCann's disappearance are set to give an update on samples taken from an Algarve reservoir as soon as tomorrow, according to a report. Detectives from the Federal Criminal Police (BKA), Germany's equivalent of the FBI, spent days searching land beside the Arade Dam last week. They used search teams, sniffer dogs and radar to scour the location, just 31 miles from where three-year-old Maddie disappeared in 2007. Prime suspect Christian Brueckner, 45, once called it his 'little paradise'. After the dig police left behind two-foot deep bore holes and the soil they took from them is being forensically analysed in Germany. Investigators last week searched the remote Barragem do Arade reservoir in the Algarve (pictured) Authorities gather at a makeshift base camp in the Arade dam area during the search operation amid the investigation into Madeleine's disappearance on May 23 It was thought that this analysis, which could result into vital clues about Maddie's disappearance, could take months. But the results could be revealed as soon as tomorrow, the Mirror reports. It still remains unclear exactly why investigators decided to search the land near the dam so closely. Police teams were seen methodically taking down trees and hacking at the undergrowth to expose an area just a short distance from the water. Photographs appear to show the remains of a camp at the mysterious spot with broken furniture, a torn ship's buoy and even what looked like a makeshift toilet made from a chair. Portuguese sources point to an informant handing police a specific tip-off that Brueckner visited the site just days after Maddie disappeared from her room in Praia da Luz. This tip-off is believed to have been matched with geolocation clues found in Brueckner's collection of 8,000 videos and images. Together it is thought that these clues combined triggered the search at the remote site. It was claimed they were looking for a camcorder and a gun tossed into the water but Portuguese police sources were quick to dismiss this. Madeleine (left) was aged three in May 2007 when she vanished from her bedroom in the apartment her family were staying at in the Praia da Luz resort on the Algarve coast. German prosecutors believe Christian Brueckner (right) is behind her disappearance German criminal profiler Axel Petermann says the cops were right to dig at a place Brueckner is so fond of. He told The Mirror: 'The criminal perpetrators who I got to know over the years tend to hide their victims in places where they feel safe and can assess danger. 'These are places which are secluded and secret and where they can stop and assess various risks. 'They can also be places where they feel good, and where there is a certain private memory of a certain act. 'So, I think the search activity may have been going in this direction.' He added: 'My recommendation when dealing with suspects in the case of missing people is always to find the places where these suspects spent time, where they had secrets, where they could assess risks, so from this point of view I think the investigators' current search was very important. 'You must always delve into the life of the suspect so you can find out about their preferences, their tendencies, their favourite locations where they liked to spend time. 'And I don't think you can really find any better possibilities than to look in secret, confidential locations.' Bruecker is now behind bars in Germany for raping a 72-year-old woman in the same area of the Algarve region from where McCann went missing. He has always said he has nothing to do with Maddie's disappearance. He is currently due for release in 2026 and argues that police and prosecutors are 'attempting to create a monster' to 'divert and let people think that I am the right one'. However, chief public prosecutor Hans-Christian Wolters, who is pursuing the case against Brueckner, has said in the past they have 'concrete evidence' that Maddie is dead and believe Brueckner killed her. Wolters confirmed that they will be making an announcement about the results of the dig soon. Yet he suggested that his investigation team may not have discovered any crucial evidence just yet. Speaking to The Mirror, Wolters said: 'We will issue a short press release. But please don't expect too much, especially nothing spectacular.' Investigators leading the search for Madeleine McCann reportedly believe there are two other areas in Portugal they can scour for clues. When investigators last week searched the remote Barragem do Arade reservoir in the Algarve, police said they found a 'relevant clue' during their search of the beauty spot after an informant was able to match photographs showing Brueckner close to the reservoir. It is now understood there could be other areas surrounding Praia da Luz, where Madeleine had been staying with her family, that police can search after German detectives scoured through more than 8,000 photographs belonging to Brueckner. A source told the Sun: 'German officers have gone through more than 8,000 pictures belonging to Christian B. That forensic work led to them to Barragem - but there are other places that have come up in the pictures too. 'Detectives are seeking to work out where they are and why Christian B was taking pictures of those places.' A 'relevant clue' was found during the last day of the search, leading police to focus on a specific area of the secluded beauty spot. Several items were removed from the site, which may or may not be of relevance to the investigation into Madeleine's disappearance. They include a bra strap, pieces of clothing and plastic items. The source said German cops believe that the original investigation into Madeleine's disappearance by Portuguese cops was flawed. They said: 'German detectives remain hugely skeptical about the way the investigation has been carried out in Portugal which is why they are keen to carry on searching and looking at areas - even those where Portuguese cops claim to have examined. 'They believe fresh work could unlock new clues which move the case forward.' Last week investigators cleared a large area of woodland at the Algarve reservoir and dug deep holes to collect samples, which have been sent for forensic and DNA testing in Germany Christian Brueckner, 45, would camp in the Barragem do Arade reservoir where cops last week searched for clues in Madeline McCann missing persons case. The convicted rapist and paedophile is understood to have built a circle out of stones from the water (pictured) For more than a decade, Madeleine's anguished parents Gerry and Kate (pictured together in 2017) have waited in vain for any news - any clue - that their little girl is somehow alive after all this time Last week's probe was first major search for the toddler in nine years and comes after German police discovered photos of Brueckner at his self-described 'little paradise' in the Portuguese region, it is understood. Brueckner would camp by the reservoir at weekends and is understood to have set up a sinister base there to 'cleanse himself', it emerged last week. A former friend of Brueckner, who has lived on Algarve for nearly 30 years and has been helping police with their investigation, claims the criminal would visit the reservoir 'often' but was 'always secretive about it'. The German mother-of-three, whose identity has not been publicised, recalled how Brueckner would drive his camper-van to the edge of the lake because he 'liked to be near the water'. She claimed he always camped in the same location and 'there was usually no one else around'. 'This was his exact special spot that he said he liked to come to cleanse himself,' she said of his campsite, telling The Sun: 'I don't know what he did there as he was very secretive.' Details of Brueckner's secret lair came to light as a British couple told The Mail on Sunday how they spotted a bizarre 'shrine' to Madeleine in the reservoir just seven months after she vanished. The retired couple, who have asked to be named only as Ralf and Ann, were so disturbed by what they saw they took pictures and sent them to Portuguese detectives, thinking they were of significance but, amazingly, never heard back. Consisting of boulders in the shape of an arrow pointing towards a picnic site which was dug over by police last week, the makeshift memorial was weighed down by a large rock and had a bouquet of flowers and a photograph of abducted Madeleine on it. Three years ago when prime suspect Brueckner, 45, was identified by German police the couple contacted detectives after seeing an appeal for anyone who was on holiday in the Algarve when Madeleine went missing in May 2007 to get in touch. This time, the German officers from the BKA (criminal investigation unit) responded within hours of Ralf and Ann emailing them and quizzed them on the telephone for several hours before asking them to give a formal statement. It raises the question whether it was their information that prompted the German authorities to request a search of the remote picnic area campsite on the edge of the reservoir near Silves, which Brueckner used to call his 'little paradise'. German prosecutors last year named convicted child abuser and drug dealer Brueckner as the prime suspect in Madeleine's disappearance. She was three in May 2007 when she vanished from her bedroom in the apartment her family were staying at in the Praia da Luz resort on the Algarve coast. The reservoir is about 31 miles inland from the resort. Pictured: Christian Brueckner was filmed at the wheel of a battered VW campervan weeks before Madeleine was kidnapped The German suspect had lived in a warehouse outside Praia da Luz for several years but moved into a campervan just before Madeleine vanished Sources close to Brueckner's legal team said any new searches will be a 'waste of time'. The source told the Sun: 'He didn't kill Madeleine and all of this is taking attention away from the job of finding out who really did.' Brueckner was known to break into Algarve hotel rooms and apartments to supplement his income from drug dealing, and left the south of Portugal suddenly in 2007 - the year Madeleine vanished - after more than a decade living there. He is alleged to have admitted abducting Madeleine to a friend in a bar - and German investigators are said to firmly believe he killed the three-year-old. But more than three years after linking Brueckner to Madeleine's disappearance, he has still not been charged regarding her abduction as prosecutors do not have enough evidence. Stressed animals are kept in cages before being gassed to death in chambers Horrifying footage has shown the grim reality of mink farms in Lithuania, with the defenceless animals being beaten and thrown into chambers where they are gassed to death. Animal rights activists captured grim footage from inside the 'killing box' where the mink can be seen writhing in agony and desperately trying to escape the dark depths of the chamber. But the mink are unable to escape and the video shows them writhing around in pain before going into spasm and dying on top of each other at a farm in Lithuania. Further footage shows farm workers beating the mink before pulling them from their small cages and throwing them into the lethal gas chambers. Some of the desperate animals can be seen trying to cling on to their cages before they are dumped into the box where they are gassed to death. Their corpses are then skinned with the fur sold into the fashion industry. The footage, captured over four years across eight farms in Lithuania, was published ahead of a vote in the Lithuanian Parliament on whether to ban fur farming on June 6. Animal rights activists captured grim footage from inside the 'killing box' where the mink can be seen writhing in agony and desperately trying to escape the dark depths of the chamber. But the mink are unable to escape and they die on top each other In the video, the investigators document the grim conditions the mink are kept in at the farms - confined to tiny wire cages where they pace due to stress The harrowing footage was captured by the animal protection group Tusti Narvai and shared exclusively to MailOnline by Humane Society International. Claire Bass, senior director of campaigns and public affairs at Humane Society International, told MailOnline: 'I have been to fur farms myself and seen the suffering first hand, but to view so many hours of footage spanning several years and showing mink being systematically abused for fur fashion, is horrendous.' 'These incidents can't be dismissed as a one-off. This level of cruelty is the everyday reality for animals suffering on fur farms and the only way to stop it is to ban fur farms once and for all. 'I urge politicians in Lithuania to vote for a ban on fur farming as soon as possible.' Investigators filmed at eight fur farms in Lithuania in 2019, 2022 and 2023, with activists saying it showed that incidents of animal cruelty are 'not isolated but a repeated, routine part of the industry'. The fur farms are located in the districts of Mazeikiai, Prienai, Panevezys, Ukmerge, Kelme, Siauliai and Kaunas. In the video, the investigators document the grim conditions the mink are kept in at the farms - confined to tiny wire cages where they pace due to stress. Farm workers can be seen dragging some of the mink from their small cages and hurling them into gas chambers. Video shows the squealing mink trying to escape the dark gas chambers, but one by one, they spasm and die on top of each other. Further footage shows farm workers beating the mink before pulling them from their small cages and throwing them into the lethal gas chambers Farm workers are seen throwing the mink into the gas chamber at a farm in Lithuania Their dead bodies can be seen laid out on the top of the wire cages they had been confined to for months before they are skinned so that their fur can be used in the fashion industry. Gabriele Vaitkeviciute, executive director of Tusti Narvai, said: 'Such treatment of animals is unfathomable and unforgivable. Fur farmers call this process 'putting animals to sleep'. Does it sound like making someone sleep? What most people can't even look at because of how horrible it is, is a standard practice on fur farms.' Vaitkeviciute said the footage of mink being gassed to death inside the gas chamber came from 2019 but the activists had at the time decided it was too distressing but with the Lithuanian parliament set to vote on a new bill banning mink fur farms next month, they decided to release it now. 'We decided not to release the gas chamber footage when we originally filmed it because we thought it was too distressing for people to see,' Vaitkeviciute said. 'But people and politicians need to see the true horror now. 'On all of the videos, the killing season looks the same. Such activities should be banned altogether. It is never justified to torture animals for the sake of fashion.' Lithuanian lawmakers will next month vote on a government proposal aimed at banning fur farms from 2027 following a long campaign by animal rights groups. There are approximately 44 mink fur farms in Lithuania with around 1 million animals. Further footage shows farm workers beating the mink before pulling them from their small cages and throwing them into the lethal gas chambers Some of the desperate animals can be seen trying to cling on to their cages before they are dumped into the box where they are gassed to death. Their corpses are then skinned with the fur sold into the fashion industry The mink farming industry sees most male animals being gassed and skinned following the breeding process which takes place in the spring. Females generally give birth between April and May, with their young taken away as soon as they are weaned - around six to eight weeks later. The young are then allowed to grow for eight months until the killing season, which generally takes place in November and December. Most animals on the farms will generally be killed during this period, including any mink mothers that farmers do not plan to keep for breeding the next year. Fur farming has been banned across the UK since 2003, and has been banned in 19 European countries including Austria, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Czech Republic, Croatia, Estonia, Macedonia, the Netherlands, Norway, Luxembourg, Serbia, Slovakia and Slovenia. In 2020, the government in Hungary declared a ban on the farming of animals for fur, including mink and foxes. The Sackler family has been given immunity from any current or future civil lawsuits over the opioid crisis in exchange for $6billion that will go towards funding treatments for addiction. As part of the settlement, the family behind Purdue Pharma, the makers of OxyContin, will personally make payments to help fight the ongoing opioid epidemic, A New York court ruled on Tuesday. The court found that the $6 billion the family will pay is around half of their collective fortune, much of it held offshore. A chunk of that money - at least $750 million - is to go to individual victims of the opioid crisis and their survivors. Payments are expected to range from about $3,500 to $48,000. The deal also requires the billionaire family to give up ownership of Stamford, Connecticut-based Purdue, which would become a new company known as Knoa, with its profits being sent to a fund to prevent and treat addiction. The Sackler family's worth was estimated to be about $10.8 billion by Forbes in 2020. The Sacklers have been given immunity from civil lawsuits over their role in the opioid crisis. Dr Richard Sackler, standing second from left and Jonathan Sackler standing second from right. Seated is co-founder Raymond and his wife Beverly Sackler The deal also requires the family to give up ownership of Stamford, Connecticut-based Purdue The settlement clears the way for a bankruptcy deal for the company, which declared bankruptcy in 2019. Moreover, the family will now have to allow any U.S. organization or institution to remove the Sackler name from buildings or scholarship programs - as long as the family is notified and the removal announcement does not 'disparage' the family. One non-financial term of their part of the deal is already fulfilled: listening silently, via Zoom, to the stories of some of the people harmed by their company's drug. Eight states and the District of Columbia agreed to the deal in March. Tuesday's decision also protects members of the Sackler family from lawsuits over the toll of opioids, even though they did not personally file for bankruptcy. The court's ruling reversed a 2021 ruling that found bankruptcy court judges did not have the authority to approve a settlement that would offer bankruptcy protections for those who have not filed for bankruptcy. Those protections are at the heart of the proposed deal that would end claims filed by thousands of state, local and Native American tribal governments and other entities. Sackler family members have been clear that without the protections, they wont hold up their part of the deal. 'It's a great day for victims, some of who desperately need the money and have been waiting for this day for a long time,' said Ed Neiger, a lawyer representing individual victims. Sackler family members and Purdue also praised the decision. Nearly all 50 states have filed lawsuits against Purdue and Sackler family members for their alleged roles in the opioid crisis. Co-founder Raymond Sackler and wife, Beverly are pictured Purdue is perhaps the highest-profile player in the opioid industry. Pictured is co-founder Mortimer Sackler The family will now have to allow any U.S. organization or institution to remove the Sackler name from buildings or scholarship programs 'The Sackler families believe the long-awaited implementation of this resolution is critical to providing substantial resources for people and communities in need,' family members who own Purdue said in a statement Tuesday. 'We are pleased with the Court's decision to allow the agreement to move forward and look forward to it taking effect as soon as possible.' Several states had withheld support for the plan, but after a new round of negotiations last year, all of them came on board. That left just one high-profile objector: the Office of the U.S. Bankruptcy Trustee, an arm of the Justice Department. The Justice Department did not immediately say whether it would appeal Tuesday's ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court, ask the Circuit Court to review its decision or accept the ruling as is. Even without an appeal, it could be months before the bankruptcy plan takes effect. Nearly all 50 states have filed lawsuits against Purdue and Sackler family members for their alleged roles in the opioid crisis, and many institutions have been forced to publicly distance themselves from the family. The crisis has led to hundreds of thousands of overdose deaths across the US. Cardboard gravestones with the names of victims of opioid abuse outside a courtroom in New York City Cheryl Juaire holds photos of her sons, both of whom died from overdoses, Sean Merrill, left, and Corey Merrill, after making a statement during a hearing in New York Some activists have also opposed the settlement and called for Sackler family members to be prosecuted for crimes. While the settlement wouldn't block that, there's no indication that charges are forthcoming. While Sackler family members still technically own Purdue, they stopped receiving money from the company years ago. Purdue is perhaps the highest-profile player in the opioid industry. But several other drugmakers, distribution companies and pharmacies also have been sued by state and local governments. While a handful of cases have gone to trial, many are being settled. The total value of proposed and finalized settlements in recent years is more than $50 billion. Companies that have reached deals include drugmakers Johnson & Johnson and Teva; distribution giants AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson; and pharmacy chains CVS, Walgreens and Walmart. Only one other major opioid lawsuit settlement included payments for victims. Most of the money is required to be used to fight the opioid crisis, which has been linked to more than 500,000 deaths in the U.S. over the past two decades, including more than 70,000 a year recently. In recent years, most of the deaths have been connected to fentanyl and other illicit synthetic opioids, not prescription painkillers. What's in a name? For Donald Trump, a lot. The former president and current Republican candidate for president has built a career on crafting zingers and nicknames for his political opponents. From 'Sleepy Joe' to 'Crooked Hilary' to 'That Woman from Michigan', Trump has drawn laughs and sunk politicians with his wisecracks. However, some are questioning if he has lost the golden touch in delivering knockout nicknames when he called former press secretary Kayleigh McEnary 'milktoast' in a Truth Social post Wednesday. Former President Donald Trump is back on the campaign trail doling out nicknames in an effort to quash his political rivals Trump's nicknames for his former press secretary and current political rival fall far short of the biting, clever nature of some of his past hits On Wednesday evening, the former president sent a message on Truth Social to his followers accusing McEnany of sharing inaccurate poll numbers during an appearance on Fox News. 'Kayleigh 'Milktoast' McEnany just gave out the wrong poll numbers on Fox News. I am 34 points up on DeSanctimonious, not 25 up,' he wrote, using his nickname for Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis while misspelling the term 'milquetoast.' 'While 25 is great, it's not 34. She knew the number was corrected upwards by the group that did the poll. The RINOS & Globalists can have her. FoxNews should only use REAL Stars!!!' Trump continued. The message, which has been criticized as an unnecessary attack on a loyal advisor who defended him tooth-and-nail during her time in the White House, also highlights his failure to stick the landings on his nicknames for both DeSantis and McEnany. 'Milktoast,' the incorrect spelling of a term used to describe someone as feeble or bland, did not pack a punch, especially in contrast to McEnany's calculated, fiery bouts with the press during her time at the podium. Furthermore, Trump's nickname for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is widely believed to pose the biggest threat to Trump's 2024 campaign, falls short of excellence. 'Ron DeSanctimonious,' 'Little D', 'Meatball Ron' or the more recently adopted 'Rob,' have not packed the same punch as the biting nicknames he dreamed up for his 2016 opponents and challengers since. Here, DailyMail.com looks back on some of Trump's more effective monikers for his political opponents. 'Sleepy Joe' Biden 'Sleepy Joe' Biden is the moniker Trump gave to the current president when he was on the 2020 campaign trail. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Biden conducted the majority of his campaign from his Delaware headquarters The nickname is a reference to various factors, including President's Joe Biden presidential campaign, which took place amid the COVID-19 pandemic primarily from his home in Delaware, Biden's old age and affinity for misspeaking and appearing to lose his train of thought altogether, 'Sleepy Joe' Biden has all but characterized the current president's time in office. It is one of several nicknames that Trump has bestowed on his political rival along with 'Slow Joe' and "Beijing Biden.' 'Low Energy' Jeb Bush In late summer of 2015, Trump began calling former Florida Governor Jeb Bush - at the time considered to be one of the best-backed, most politically attractive candidates in the field - 'a low-energy person.' The accusation stuck and was ultimately one Jeb was not able to outrun on the primary trail, as his seasoned and measured debate performances paled in comparison to Trump's rambunctious, off-script stage presence. The name followed Jeb until the eventual peter out of his campaign, which included the death spiral moment at a New Hampshire town hall when he asked an audience to 'please clap' after he took a subtle dig at Trump. 'Little Marco' Rubio Donald Trump (center), Jeb Bush (left), and Marco Rubio (right), take their places on a New Hampshire debate stage during the 2016 Republican presidential primary In March of 2016, Trump and the three other remaining Republican presidential candidates took part in one of the wildest debates of the cycle - or any cycle to date. In Detroit, Florida Senator Marco Rubio and then-candidate Trump spoke over each other and traded jabs about the pertained to details of Trump's proposed tax policy. An ultimately irritated Trump began calling the senator 'Little Marco,' which Rubio responded to by calling Trump 'Big Donald,' thereby handing himself the shorter end of the stick. 'Crooked Hillary' Clinton Once Trump had verbally battled his way through the 2016 primary, it was time to take on former First Lady, Senator and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who was essentially the presumed heir apparent to the presidency. In a name that Trump felt summed up the extent of the baggage carried by Clinton, he dubbed her 'Crooked Hillary,' to underscore the myriad questions members of the American public had about the Clinton apparatus - from Benghazi to email server controversies to Bill Clinton's Oval Office antics to the financial behavior of the Clinton Foundation. The name stuck and led to crowds of Trump supporters chanting 'lock her up' for a few years, until Trump - by that time in office - advised his loyal followers to lay off. In 2023, once again on the campaign trail, Trump announced he was officially retiring the nickname and instead transferring the title to Joe Biden, of whom he said there has 'never been anyone in the history of American politics to crooked or dishonest as Joe Biden.' Elizabeth 'Pocahontas' Warren During her time on the faculties of both Harvard and Penn law schools, Warren was listed as a minority, possibly due to her claim at the time that she was of Native American descent One of Trump's most iconic nicknames was the one he gave to progressive Senator Elizabeth Warren, who for the grand majority of her professional life claimed to be of Native American ancestry. At a 2017 event honoring Native American veterans at the White House, Trump said to the honorees: 'You were here long before any of us were here. Although we have a representative in Congress who they say was here a long time ago. They call her Pocahontas.' When Warren joined the 2020 primary to compete for the Democratic nomination for president, she took a DNA test that proved there were markers of Native American ancestry in her lineage - even if it is an embarrassingly small amount. It was reported the tests proved Warren was between 1/64th and 1/1024th Native American, which prompted more than 200 Native Americans to sign a letter asking the senator to entirely retract any claims she made of Native American ancestry. 'Crazy Liz Cheney' Former Congresswoman Liz Cheney lost her seat last November after taking an extremely anti-Trump position and accepting a seat on the House January 6 panel Liz Cheney, daughter of the former vice president and once a rising star inside the Republican party in Washington, DC, saw her flame abruptly put out when she decided to become an emblem of anti-Trump sentiment in Congress. Following the January 6, 2021, riot at the United States Capitol complex, Cheney - the sole representative of Wyoming - adopted a hardline stance against Donald Trump. She voted to impeach the then-President and ultimately accepted a seat on the Democrat operated House panel to investigate January 6. The one-time third most powerful Republican woman in Congress turned herself into an enemy of MAGA Republicans and lost her primary to a Trump-backed candidate last summer. Trump dubbed the former congresswoman 'crazy,' a 'sanctimonious loser,' and a 'fool' over the decisions she made that led to a relatively immediate end to her run in the House. Evan 'McMuffin' McMullin Former CIA officer Evan McMullin ran as an Independent in the 2016 election and in a 2022 Utah Senate race, both of which he lost In a rally following his surprising victory in 2016, Trump repeated a nickname he had used several times to mock his former presidential rival, one-time CIA officer Evan McMullin. Talking to the crowd about watching polls close on Election Night, Trump took several post-game swings at the man he referred to as 'McMuffin.' 'That's correct, that's his name, he said Evan McMuffin, do you believe this?' said Trump. 'I never heard of this guy before. Nobody did.' Throughout the campaign, Trump regularly referred to McMullin as 'some guy.' Adam 'Shifty Schiff' / 'Pencil Neck' Adam Schiff spent years pushing the now-debunked Russia-collusion narrative before delivering a rousing performance as an impeachment leader during the Democrats' first unsuccessful attempt to unseat Trump California Congressman Adam Schiff earned his nickname from Trump during the former president's first impeachment trial in early 2020. The hard-left representative, who was at one time an aspiring screenwriter, proved he had a flare for the dramatic during his rousing opening and closing arguments for the first impeachment. Throughout the impeachment proceedings, Trump tweeted along, calling 'Shifty Adam Schiff' a 'corrupt politician' and 'probably a very sick man.' During that same time period, Trump drew attention to Schiff's ongoing attempts to thwart White House actions, and referred to the House Intelligence Chair at a rally as 'you little pencil neck.' For a while, the Trump campaign was even selling 'Pencil-neck Adam Schiff' tee shirts. 'He's got the smallest, thinnest neck I've ever seen,' said Trump in 2019, as Schiff pushed the now-debunked Russia collusion theory from his powerful seat in Congress. 'Rocket Man' Kim Jong Un During his presidency, Trump bestowed the nickname 'Rocket Man' on the dictatorial leader of North Korea because of his keenness to test his weapons systems On-and-off throughout his presidency, Trump pulled out the nickname 'Rocket Man' for North Korea's dictatorial leader, due to the frequent and disturbing weapons system tests he conducted. Trump's relationship with Kim was constant fodder for the US press corps, which lambasted Trump for attempting to have any sort of functional relationship with his North Korean counterpart. In 2017, Trump famously called Kim 'Rocket Man,' when he said the dictator was on a 'suicide mission for himself and for his regime,' as nuclear tensions escalated between the two nations. Throughout his presidency, Trump attempted to make progress on denuclearization talks with Kim, only for them to stall out time and again. When they were on the outs, Trump typically came back to the 'Rocket Man' nickname, though in a bizarre recent message slamming the rollout of Ron DeSantis' presidential campaign, Trump said Kim would 'soon...become my friend.' Failed presidential candidate Chris Christie, the Trump-bashing former governor of New Jersey, is set to announce another bid for the White House next Tuesday. The 60-year-old Republican will throw his hat into the ring at an event in New Hampshire and launch an unlikely bid to take down main contenders Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis, Axios reported. Christie, who ran the state of New Jersey from 2010 to 2018, went up against the real estate mogul in the 2016 primaries. But the larger-than-life former prosecutor dropped out in the February of that year after receiving a hammering in New Hampshire, finishing a dismal sixth in the Granite State GOP vote. Since Trump left the White House, he has turned on the former president and called him a 'coward' and a 'puppet of Putin'. He has also attacked Ron DeSantis, the recently-declared Republican candidate, over his 'war on woke' battle with Disney. Failed presidential candidate Chris Christie, the Trump-bashing former governor of New Jersey , is set to announce another bid for the White House next Tuesday Allies of Christie have formed what is known as a super political action committee, or Super PAC, called 'Tell It Like It Is', according to the New York Times. These self-styled independent organizations are allowed to rake in and spend unlimited amounts of corporate, individual or union cash on behalf of a candidate. Christie, a one-time Trump whisperer, has been repeatedly teasing a 2024 run over the past three years. He broke ranks with the ex-commander-in-chief when he claimed that the 2020 election was stolen from him. The former attorney has reportedly drafted in a number of seasoned Republican political operatives who once advised on presidential campaigns for the late John McCain and Mitt Romney, a senator for Utah. They include Maria Comella, the ex-chief of staff to disgraced Democratic ex-New York governor Andrew Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid allegations of sexual misconduct. Brian Jones, the head of the PAC and Christie's campaign manager-in-waiting, said the ex-governor 'is willing to confront the hard truths that currently threaten the future of the Republican Party.' 'Now more than ever we need leaders that have the courage to say not what we want to hear but what we need to hear,' he added. Christie, who once called a 2024 bid 'a huge risk, has been tapping up potential donors as he makes his pitch to be the main anti-Trump GOP candidate. His allies believes that he will be able to attract the independent vote who can beat Joe Biden in November next year. Christie also recently hit out at Ron DeSantis (above) over his long-running feud with Disney 'Where are we headed here now that, if you express disagreement in this country, the government is allowed to punish you?' the former New Jersey governor said last month. In a thinly-veiled swipe at DeSantis, he added: 'To me, that's what I always thought liberals did. And now all of a sudden here we are participating in this with a Republican.' Christie hinted at the likelihood of a 2024 run earlier in May, saying he was 'very concerned' about potential rematch between Trump and President Biden because it would be 'bad for the Republican Party.' He would join a crowded Republican field that already includes South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, ex-South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, and former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson. Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and talk radio host Larry Elder are also in the running for the GOP nomination. Mike Pence, who served as vice president in the previous administration, and New Hampshire governor Chris Sununu are also thought to be mulling a possible tilt at America's top job. But Donald Trump remains the runaway favorite in nationwide opinion polls, as well as in voter surveys in key battleground states such as Iowa and New Hampshire. A man has admitted freezing the leg of an alleged ringleader of an extreme body modifications group which left the limb needing to be amputated. Jacob Crimi-Appleby, 22, from Epsom in Surrey, pleaded guilty on Wednesday to causing grievous bodily harm with intent to Marius Gustavson in February 2019. Gustavson, originally from Norway, is alleged to have led a wide-ranging conspiracy involving up to 29 offences of extreme body modifications on 13 victims, the removal and trade of body parts and the uploading of videos. During a hearing at the Old Bailey, Gustavson, 45, from Haringey, north London, pleaded not guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent to three men on dates in 2018 and 2019. The charges relate to the alleged clamping and splitting of the genitals of the men, who cannot be identified for legal reasons. Marius Gustavson is alleged to have led a wide-ranging conspiracy involving up to 29 offences of extreme body modifications on 13 victims Jacob Crimi-Appleby, 22, from Epsom in Surrey, pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent Gustavson, who appeared in court by videolink from custody, admitted separate charges of making and distributing indecent videos of a child. He was not asked to enter pleas on other charges including conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm. Two more men previously admitted removing other body parts belonging to Gustavson, who is accused of carrying out castrations and broadcasting the footage on his 'eunuch maker' website. Nurse Nathan Arnold, 48, from South Kensington, west London, admitted the partial removal of Gustavson's nipple, stealing anaesthetic from the hospital where he worked and possessing extreme pornography. Damien Byrnes, 35, from Tottenham, north London, admitted removing Gustavson's penis. Gustavson's alleged 'right-hand man', Peter Wates, 66, from Croydon in south London, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm between January 1, 2016, and January 1, 2022. Wates was alleged to have been involved with nine of the 29 incidents. Nurse Nathan Arnold, 48, from South Kensington, west London, admitted the partial removal of Gustavson's nipple Other alleged conspirators include Ashley Williams, 31 Janus Atkin, 38, from Newport in Gwent, South Wales, is another alleged conspirator Other defendants who appeared by videolink and in the dock of the Old Bailey were not asked to enter pleas to charges on the 13-count indictment. Romanian national Ion Ciucur, 29, who worked in a hotel in Gretna Green, Scotland, is said to have been involved in two incidents in the alleged conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm. Other alleged conspirators are David Carruthers, 60, Janus Atkin, 38, and Ashley Williams, 31, who are all from Newport in Gwent, South Wales. The case relates to the practice of extreme body modifications, including the removal of penises and testicles. The procedures were allegedly filmed and uploaded to the 'eunuch maker' website Gustavson ran, and subscribers paid to watch. The defendants were arrested after police raids in London, Scotland and South Wales. They are said to have been part of a society in which people willingly undergo extreme body modification. The practice is linked to a subculture in which men become 'nullos' - which is short for genital nullification - by having their penis and testicles removed. Judge Mark Lucraft KC set a further plea and case management hearing for June 30. A provisional trial of up to eight weeks has been set at the Old Bailey from March 4 next year. The bank faces allegations it could have done more to slow Epstein, as the financial giant denies Staley's claims and the allegations Former JPMorgan executive Jes Staley said CEO Jamie Dimon was involved in talks about Jeffrey Epstein's accounts A former JPMorgan executive accused its CEO of lying about his knowledge of bank accounts held by convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein that were allegedly used for the trafficking of young women. Former top executive James 'Jes' Staley pointed the finger at Jamie Dimon, claiming that for years the CEO was involved in discussions as to whether the bank should keep Epstein as a client - even after his conviction. The details, revealed in legal documents seen by the Wall Street Journal, cast doubt on Dimon's defense of the bank in an ongoing lawsuit arguing it did not do enough to remove Epstein's accounts and slow his horrific crimes. But a spokesperson for JPMorgan denied Staley's claims and painted him to be a disgruntled former employee trying to wash his hands of blame and mitigate his involvement in sexual misconduct. Staley, who went on to serve as the CEO of Barclays from 2015 to 2021 and was driven out over the Epstein connections. He has acknowledged he had a friendship with Epstein but denied knowing about the trafficking. Former JPMorgan executive Jes Staley has thrown CEO Jamie Dimon under the bus by claiming he is lying over his involvement in conversations as to whether pedophile Epstein should be able to keep accounts with the bank. Jamie Dimon (pictured with his wife Judith in 2011) during a deposition on Friday denied having any recollection of conversations regarding Epstein An infamous photo taken in Jeffrey Epstein's Manhattan mansion in 2011 featuring Staley and Bill Gates - three years after Epstein pleaded guilty to soliciting and procuring a minor for prostitution. From left: Staley, Lawrence Summers, Epstein and Gates The revelations came as part of an ongoing lawsuit brought against JPMorgan in which it was claimed that Staley (pictured) was close with Epstein and allowed him to maintain accounts with the bank that facilitated the pedophile's trafficking ring Another banking goliath wrapped up in the Epstein scandal is Deutsche Bank. Earlier in May, it agreed to pay $75 million to settle a proposed class-action lawsuit alleging the German bank also facilitated Epstein's sex-trafficking ring, according to attorneys for the plaintiffs. Lawyers for the plaintiffs said of the judgement that the 'groundbreaking settlement' was the culmination of 'a decade-long investigation to hold one of Epstein's financial banking partners responsible for the role it played in facilitating his trafficking organization.' These most recent allegations implicating Dimon are part of a separate lawsuit against JPMorgan, brought by the US Virgin Islands and an unnamed woman, who said she was abused by Epstein. Dimon gave a deposition on Friday in which he denied Staley's claims. A spokesperson summarized the content of his deposition in a statement to DailyMail.com. 'Our CEO reaffirmed after his deposition that, as he has previously said, he never met with him, never emailed him, does not recall ever discussing his accounts internally, and was not involved in any decisions about his account,' it said. Epstein first became a client of JPMorgan in 1998 and went on to hold dozens of accounts containing hundreds of millions of dollars, according to records submitted to the federal court. The plaintiffs have previously said Epstein frequently used cash withdrawals from some of those JPMorgan accounts to pay for young women to travel to his private island so that he and others could abuse them. Epstein was a notorious figure long before his death inside a federal prison in 2019. In 2006 he was arrested for soliciting and procuring a minor for prostitution, and in 2008 he pleaded guilty to charges in Florida. Epstein received minimal punishment and it wasn't until years later that his sweetheart deal was revealed. That led to outrage and Epstein was later arrested on federal sex-crime charges. He died by suicide while awaiting trial in New York. A lawsuit brought by the US Virgin Islands and a woman who claims Epstein abused her suggested the pedophile's JPMorgan bank accounts were used to pay trafficked women The lawsuit brought by the US Virgin Islands against JP Morgan claimed that Staley visited Epstein's island on 'multiple occasions' Between 2008 and 2012, Staley exchanged around 1,200 emails with Epstein from his JPMorgan email account, it is claimed. In one exchange Staley is said to have written 'say hi to Snow White' and asked if 'Beauty and the Beast' was free In August 2009 Staley emailed Epstein saying he would be in London and the pedophile asked if he needed anything. Pictured: Jeffrey Epstein and convicted sex offender Ghislaine Maxwell in New York City in March 2005 A particular claim leveled by Staley against Dimon is that the pair communicated multiple times after Epstein's initial arrest in 2006 about whether they should keep Epstein as a client, even after he was registered as a sex offender and served time in a Florida jail. An email presented as evidence in the ongoing hearing, and seen by the Journal, indicated Dimon was at some point due to review the situation involving Epstein. Emails between Jes Staley and Jeffrey Epstein revealed as part of the lawsuit November 1st 2009 Mr Staley is on Epsteins Caribbean island. He writes: So when all hell breaks lo[o]se, and the world is crumbling, I will come here, and be at peace. Presently, Im in the hot tub with a glass of white wine. This is an amazing place. Truly amazing. Next time, were here together. I owe you much. And I deeply appreciate our friendship. I have few so profound. December 4, 2009 Mr Staley to Epstein: I realise the danger in sending this email. But it was great to be able, today, to give you, in New York City, a long heartfelt, hug. Epstein: You were with Larry and I had to put up with. (picture of young woman attached) Mr Staley: Dont tell me, a French wine. July 2010 Mr Staley to Epstein: That was fun. Say hi to Snow White. Epstein: (W)hat character would you like next? Mr Staley: Beauty and the Beast Epstein: Well one side is available Advertisement It was sent by a JPMorgan employee and read: 'I would count Epstein's assets as a probable outflow for '08 ($120mm or so?) as I can't imagine it will stay (pending Dimon review).' The employee appeared to be suggesting that Epstein's account would be unlikely to survive once the situation was reviewed. No evidence was shared by the Journal suggesting the account was indeed reviewed. A JPMorgan spokesperson addressed Staley's accusations in a statement to DailyMail.com on Thursday. 'We believe this is false,' they wrote. 'There is no evidence that any such communications ever occurred - nothing in the voluminous number of documents reviewed and nothing in the nearly dozen depositions taken, including that of our own CEO.' 'The one person who claims this to be true is currently accused of horrific acts and dishonesty,' they added. That position is aligned with the bank's overall defensive strategy in the case - which has been to blame Staley for any connections the bank may have had to Epstein. Similarly, despite the Deutsche Bank settlement this month, it did not admit wrongdoing, a person familiar with the matter told DailyMail.com. The suit was filed last year in New York by another anonymous woman on behalf of herself and other accusers. It alleged Deutsche Bank did business with Epstein for five years despite knowing he was engaged in sex-trafficking. The plaintiffs' lawyers said they believed the $75 million settlement was the largest sex-trafficking settlement involving a banking institution. A Deutsche Bank spokesman declined to discuss the settlement or comment on any specifics when reached by DailyMail.com. However, the German bank did point at the time to a prior statement in which it acknowledged that taking on Epstein as a client was a mistake. 'We acknowledge our error of onboarding Epstein in 2013 and the weaknesses in our processes. We have learnt from our mistakes and deeply regret our association with Epstein,' the bank said in a public statement in July 2020. Deutsche Bank also stated it has invested more than $4.3 billion to bolster its controls, processes and training, and hired more people to fight financial crime. As part of the lawsuit Staley has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman during his visit to Epstein's private island (pictured). He has denied knowing about the trafficking but and admitted to a friendship with the convicted pedophile JPMorgan is suing Staley for misleading executives at the bank about the nature of his own relationship with Epstein Earlier this year as part of the JPMorgan lawsuit around 1,200 emails Staley exchanged with Epstein uncovered the extent of what the former referred to as a 'profound' friendship. In one exchange, Staley is said to have written 'say hi to Snow White' and asked if 'Beauty and the Beast' was free. Epstein replied: 'Well, one side is available', seemingly referring to 'Beauty'. In another email, Epstein sent Staley photos of a young woman in a 'seductive pose', according to US court documents. The cache of messages revealed that 'Staley corresponded with Epstein while Epstein was incarcerated' for 15 months for soliciting an underage girl for prostitution. Staley 'visited Epstein's Virgin Islands residence on multiple occasions' and 'Epstein even advised Staley in connection with Staley's salary negotiations at JP Morgan in July of 2008', according to court records. 'Human trafficking was the [principal] business of the accounts Epstein maintained at JPMorgan,' the Virgin Islands' lawsuit reads. The anonymous victim bringing the case with the US Virgin Islands has alleged in a lawsuit that 'at least one of Epstein's friends used aggressive force in his sexual assault of her and informed [her] that he had Epstein's permission to do what he wanted to her.' JPMorgan, in a crossclaim, said that the 'powerful financial executive' not named in her lawsuit is Staley. A lawyer for Staley, who left JPMorgan in 2013, declined a request for comment by the Wall Street Journal regarding the latest claims. In a separate suit JPMorgan has sued Staley for misleading executives at the bank about the nature of his own relationship with Epstein. The friend of a Tennessee mom who vanished with her boyfriend after a drunken brawl earlier this month said the pair should have 'spent the weekend in jail' after the incident. Nikki Alcaraz and Steven Tyler Stratton, both 33, were found by the Eureka Police Department at 7.15am Tuesday morning. They were discovered on the 100 block of 4th Street in Eureka, not far from the Oregon border. Alcaraz was last seen over the weekend about 150 miles away at a Walmart in Redding, California. Surveillance cameras saw her at an ecoATM as she sold her cellphone for $75. Torrance County Attorney's Officer released shocking bodycam footage of Alcaraz and Stratton on Tuesday night showing the pair bloodied and bruised following a vicious and drunken domestic on May 4. Alcaraz's friend Amanda Sanders told NewsNation's Ashleigh Banfield they wouldn't have gone missing had they been charged following the incident but is relieved that her friend is alive. Friends and relatives of a Tennessee mom who vanished with her boyfriend after a drunken brawl earlier this month said the pair should have 'spent the weekend in jail' after the incident 'I just felt more angry, wondering why they weren't at least arrested for public intox or something because I feel like none of this would even happen if they would have been... you know, spent the weekend in jail,' she said. 'I'm just glad that it had a happy ending at least you know, so I think just everyone's just happy that we found her sooner than later and that she's okay.' Sanders said Alcaraz's disappearance was a shock and 'not like her at all.' 'That's why we just didn't understand what was going on because even if me and her don't talk, like all the time, we're at least sending memes you know,' she said. 'Just some type of communication so for her to just flat out disappear is what just really scared me, like, I just didn't know what was going on.' The 33-year-old mother-of-two's brother Josh said he was ecstatic to hear that his sister was alive and well adding that her kids couldn't be happier to know their mom is safe. 'They're ecstatic. Her daughter, well she's been a wreck. She's been a nervous wreck ever since the news happened that she was, she was missing so she's happy. Yeah, we're all happy, relieved,' he said. The Tennessee couple vanished almost one month ago as they traveled west across the country. Alcaraz was with Stratton when police found them. Alcaraz's friend Amanda Sanders told NewsNation's Ashleigh Banfield they wouldn't have gone missing had they been charged following the incident but is relieved, nonetheless, that her friend is alive The 33-year-old mother-of-two's brother Josh said he was ecstatic to hear that his sister was alive and well adding that her kids couldn't be happier to know their mom is safe Eureka Officers found Alcaraz and Stratton inside their black Jeep and the duo cooperated with the police officers. Alcaraz insisted she was fine and did not require any help, while a police check on Stratton revealed he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest in Tennessee. Stratton was taken into custody without incident following his failure to appear in court back in Tennessee on a theft-related charge. California investigators have also been in touch with Moriarty, New Mexico, police to inform them Alcaraz is no longer considered to be a missing person. The couple embarked on a cross-country road trip close to a month ago, when things suddenly appeared to take a turn on May 4 in Torrance County, New Mexico. A truck driver witnessed Stratton punch Alcaraz in the face, according to a Torrance County Sheriff's Office incident report. Stratton told a deputy he had also been hit. Bodycam footage obtained by DailyMail.com revealed Stratton distraught and intoxicated with blood streaming from his nose and mouth. Both admitted they were drunk after taking multiple shots of Fireball - both pointing the finger at the other for starting the fight and driving under the influence. At one point, Alcaraz is seen with a black eye telling the deputy she wants to press charges exclaiming that she wants to see Stratton's 'a** in jail.' Police did not place charges on either and dropped them off in separate locations. Shocking bodycam footage showed the mother-of-two showing police multiple bruises after a drunken fight with her boyfriend telling cops she wanted to see his 'a** in jail' on May 4 The pair seemingly vanished almost one month ago while road tripping from Nashville to Orange County, California In one of the videos a noticeably distraught Alcaraz is seen standing next to the bystander who called police after he saw the 33-year-old being 'slapped' and 'punched in the face' The couple were found on the 100 block of 4th Street in Eureka, California, after being spotted a day earlier In one of the videos, a noticeably distraught Alcaraz was seen standing next to the bystander who called the cops after he saw the mother-of-two being 'slapped' and 'punched in the face.' 'I'm a truck driver, as I was driving by I seen her on the ground and I see that dude over there slap her and punch her in the face,' said the bystander. 'He punched me in the eye,' Alcaraz added. 'How is he related to you,' the responding officer was heard asking Alcaraz, who responds 'We've been together 16 years... we're boyfriend/girlfriend.' When asked if she wants to press charges, Alcaraz nods and answered: 'Yeah' before revealing that she would like to see his 'a** in jail' while holding back tears. 'I just wanted to make sure she was ok,' the bystander is heard saying. Responding officers then ask if the man she is with, later identified as Stratton, is 'on anything' to which Alcaraz responds 'not that I know of no.' 'But I'm done, I want his a** to go to jail, I'm over it,' she repeats. Torrence County Sheriff's officials earlier released an incident report in which it was revealed that Alcaraz could be heard screaming in the background of a 911 call to police during the May 4 incident. The Torrance County Attorney's Office in New Mexico released 10 bodycam videos in the immediate aftermath of the vicious May brawl. A witness to the fight is seen, left Video shows that Alcaraz was heavily bruised with marks on her arms and face - while Stratton was also covered in blood streaming from his nose and mouth Following questioning, police released the pair with no charges after separating them and taking them to different locations In the call, the woman, later identified as Alcaraz, could be heard screaming in the background. The police report stated the man, Stratton, was 'standing over her' before he 'punched her in the face.' According to the report by the Torrance County Sheriff's Office obtained by DailyMail.com stated Alcaraz and Stratton were 'intoxicated.' The responding officer said he saw the 2013 Jeep in a small rest area and he noticed red marks on Alcaraz's face and fingerprint marks on both of her arms. He also observed Stratton had 'blood coming from his mouth and nose area.' The responding officer said Alcaraz had said they'd dropped off a friend in Amarillo, Texas, before picking up a bottle of Fireball whisky, which she and Stratton both drank. Alcaraz claimed Stratton had 'started to hit her for no reason,' and when they got to the rest area she jumped out of the vehicle but he 'caught her.' She also claimed to have a bruise on her chest and her back. The report identified the alleged assailant as 'Thomas,' but the sheriff's office confirmed with DailyMail.com that it meant Stratton. Stratton claimed Alcaraz had also hit him, allegedly striking him to the mouth 'for no reason' and that she continued to hit him while they were traveling. He stated, 'Nikki does blackout after drinking liquor' but he 'did not want her to go to jail.' Blood spatter on the passenger side door and blood on the 'running board' had been observed by the deputy and both disputed they'd been driving the vehicle. Neither pressed charges. The pair departed Tennessee in early May in this black Jeep, which was seen in a Redding, California, parking lot Tuesday morning Alcaraz vanished just days after getting into a 'drunken dispute' with her boyfriend was also heard 'screaming on a 911' call made by a bystander Alcaraz was seen on a surveillance camera over the weekend trying to sell her phone at an ecoATM in Redding, California Alcaraz, Stratton and their dog set out on a road trip from Nashville to Southern California and were in an altercation in New Mexico on May 4. A police report filed by the Torrance County Sheriff's Office showed the mother-of-two with a black eye after witnesses said they saw Stratton punch her in the face. Both were then given rides by responding police, with Nikki dropped off in Moriarty, where she called her sister Toni, and a friend met her to stay the night in a motel. But the following day, Alcaraz insisted she needed to find Stratton. Her jeep was located by a license plate reader near Flagstaff, Arizona, on May 8, with Alcaraz messaging her sister to say she was planning to complete her trip. The couple was finally located on Tuesday in a Walmart parking lot in Redding, California. One of the Just Stop Oil protesters who scaled the Dartford Crossing - sparking more than 40 hours of gridlock - faces being deported after his two-year jail term. Marcus Decker, a German citizen who has leave to remain in the UK, said he had been served with a stage one deportation order. The 34-year-old and fellow campaigner Morgan Trowland, 40, used ropes and other equipment to scale the 450ft high bridge at the Dartford Crossing last October. They were handed sentences of two years and seven months and three years for the stunt. Current laws state that any foreign national will be automatically deported if they have been sentenced to more than 12 months in prison. It is not known whether Trowland has also received a deportation order and the Home Office refused to comment. Marcus Decker, one of the Just Stop Oil protesters who scaled the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge and sparked more than 40 hours of gridlock, has revealed that he faces being deportation after his two-year jail term. He is pictured scaling the bridge last October Decker, a German citizen who has leave to remain in the UK, said he is expecting a 'negative response' after being served with a stage one deportation order. He is pictured during his bridge protest last autumn An Instagram account that is run in connection with Extinction Rebellion and regularly updates his supporters with news from prison said Decker, 34, could be forced out of the country 'very soon' An Instagram account linked to Decker announced the news of his deportation order and said he could be forced out 'very soon'. 'Marcus is a German citizen who had leave the remain in the UK,' the post stated. 'He is in prison on a 2 year 7 month sentence after taking action to block the QEII bridge on 17 and 18 October 2022 with @just.stopoil.' It also contained an audio message from Decker, who is being held at Category C Highpoint Prison in Suffolk, where he says: 'I was seen by an immigration officer the other day and got very bad news. 'I've been served a stage one deportation order, very soon it sounds like, because as my sentence was over 12 months I meet the criteria for automatic deportation, which is very sad, and she said that it's most likely going to be a negative response after I put all the paperwork in and then get a deportation order which cancels my leave to remain in the UK. 'I've been living here for a few years and with my partner and her kids in a lovely family setting and that's going to be a terrible disruption to all of our lives. 'Not being able to live in this country anymore is pretty outrageous given that our action was an action of compassion and love to try to do good in the world.' A Stage 1 letter in the deportation process notifies the person of the Home Office's intention to remove them from the UK. They are then allowed to explain why they believe they should be able to stay. Deportation is usually automatic if a criminal's sentence is over 12 months. Decker (left) and fellow campaigner Morgan Trowland (right) used ropes and other climbing equipment to scale the 450ft high bridge at the Dartford Crossing last October. They were handed sentences of two years and seven months and three years for the stunt Writing for Prospect in April, Decker said the climb was 'a desperate last resort after we have spent years trying everything else'. He is pictured during the protest The pair's protest caused massive disruptions to traffic (pictured) and shut down the bridge for more than 40 hours While many commented on the post to issue their support for Decker, others weren't so forgiving. One follower said on Instagram: 'I honestly have no idea what you're expecting. 'Your actions have got you where you are. You are being punished for law breaking. Deal with it. 'Maybe it will keep you off of another bridge somewhere else in the world.' Another said: 'They are passionate about their cause and want the world to change. 'But if you knowingly do illegal things to protest then you have to accept the consequences. 'I know some will say martyr and some well done depending on your views but breaking the law has to be punished or else there is societal breakdown.' But others said they were 'horrified' by the news while another said it was 'sacrifice upon sacrifice.' One said: 'Omg! Unbelievable. I'm utterly horrified. Our politicians and oil companies and other institutions are all committing crimes and are getting away with it.' Another said: 'I don't know you but I'm so sorry. This is disgraceful. I'm ashamed of my country left and right. I'm just so sorry.' 'I feel ashamed to be British,' another added. 'Know that you will always have a place here in the UK, at least in our hearts and minds.' And another simply said: 'I want my country full of people like Marcus.' Just Stop Oil activists held a protest in Westminster, London last month (pictured)calling for Marcus Decker and Morgan Trowland to be freed from prison Decker and Trowland scaled the bridge last autumn. They took banners representing the campaign group Just Stop Oil, which campaigns for an end to fossil fuels and has organised dozens of other protests, causing motorists a major headache. Decker had given up his career as a musician to focus on full-time campaigning. Writing for Prospect in April, Decker said the climb was 'a desperate last resort after we have spent years trying everything else.' He added: 'In the middle of October, after leaving my partner and her two children behind, I straddled a cable with my friend Morgan at 3am and climbed 250ft up the QE2 Bridge, also known as the Dartford Crossing. 'We are both well-trained as climbers and were safely secured as we nudged ourselves up the bridge. 'Once at the top, we threw a line across the four-lane motorway and hung a huge orange banner which yelled JUST STOP OIL. 'To make it more newsworthy, we then rigged up our two hammocks, and literally hung out for a total of 37 hours, causing a gridlock after police closed the bridge to traffic.' He added: 'Like a fire alarm we tried to be loud and annoying, impossible to ignore, in order to safeguard human life.' Bud Light risks losing its title as the top-selling US beer, after sales of the beer posted their biggest decline from the prior year since the brand's controversial partnership with transgender influence Dylan Mulvaney. For the week ended May 20, Bud Light sales were down 25.7 percent from the same week a year ago, while nearest rival Model Especial saw sales jump 9.2 percent, according to data from Bump Williams Consulting cited by the New York Post. 'While Bud Light loses week after week, Modelo Especial gains week after week and now Modelo outsells Bud Light on a national basis across all trade channels combined,' Bump Williams, who runs the consulting firm, told the Post. 'If this continues Modelo will surpass Bud Light for the year,' he added. Modelo was the number two beer in the US last year, posting $3.8 billion in off-premises sales, compared to $4.8 billion for Bud Light, according to Bump Williams data. For the week ended May 20, Bud Light sales were down 25.7% from the same week a year ago The latest data indicates a hardening of recent sales trends, after Bud Light's April 1 promotion with Mulvaney (above) sparked anti-LGBTQ backlash and boycott threats Both Bud Light and Modelo are owned by Anheuser-Busch parent company AB InBev. But as part of an anti-trust settlement, US sales of Modelo are controlled by rival Constellation Group and do not count as part of AB InBev's global volumes. The latest data indicates a hardening of recent sales trends, after Bud Light's April 1 promotion with Mulvaney sparked anti-LGBTQ backlash and boycott threats. For the four weeks through May 20, Bud Light sales dropped 24.3 percent from last year, while Modelo sales grew 8 percent. 'That's a monumental decline,' Williams told the Post. 'Modelo has surpassed Bud Light for the first time since it was launched in 1982.' In a note last week, JPMorgan analysts said they expect AB InBev's earnings before interest and tax in the US to drop 26 percent this year, on a 12 percent drop in volume and a 10 percent decline in sales. 'We believe there is a subset of American consumers who will not drink a Bud Light for the foreseeable future,' the note said. Cases of Bud Light are seen marked down in a Florida store. For the four weeks through May 20, Bud Light sales dropped 24.3 percent from last year After Bud Light, Modelo Especial was the number two beer in the US last year Bud Light's parent company said earlier this month it will triple its marketing spending in the US this summer as it tries to boost ailing sales. The controversy emerged on April 1, when Mulvaney posted a video of herself cracking open a Bud Light on her Instagram page. She showed off a customized can with her face on it that Bud Light sent her - one of many corporate freebies she gets and promotes to her millions of followers. Three days after Mulvaney's post, Kid Rock posted a video of himself shooting cases of Bud Light, and country music stars John Rich and Travis Tritt publicly denounced the brand. Within weeks, two marketing executives at Anheuser-Busch took a leave of absence. It's unclear whether they have returned to work yet. After Anheuser-Busch tried to distance itself from the Mulvaney promotion, Bud Light also faced backlash from the opposite direction, with pro-LGBTQ groups accusing the company of abandoning the transgender influencer. Still, Anheuser-Busch InBev CEO Michel Doukeris has downplayed the impact of the backlash, saying Bud Light's US sales declines in the first three weeks of April represented only 1 percent of InBev's global volumes. 'We believe we have the experience, the resources and the partners to manage this,' Doukeris said during a conference call with investors earlier this month. Months of stepping past sidewalk homeless camps and open-air drug markets have taken their toll on residents of Portland, Oregon. Voters there have delivered a stunning rebuke to officials of the Democrat-run hipster city, with three quarters calling homelessness 'an out-of-control disaster.' The survey, commissioned by People for Portland, a conservative advocacy group, found that more than two thirds of voters wanted to clear the streets by forcing drug addicts into rehab. Respondents also by wide margins supported Mayor Ted Wheeler's plan to ban homeless daytime camping and people stringing up tents near schools and daycare centers. Three quarters of respondents called homelessness in Portland 'an out-of-control disaster' Portland City Council members are debating whether to ban homeless daytime camping and people stringing up tents near schools and daycare centers Portland City Council members were set to debate such a ban on Wednesday. 'Every citizen is sick and damn tired of the growing homeless problem,' an angry Portland business owner posted on social media. 'Portland used to be clean and safe and a place we were proud to call home. Now, people are moving the f**k out.' The survey of 500 voters across Multnomah County comes after its homeless population reached 5,228 last year a rise of more than 1,200 against 2019. More than 2,000 of them are sheltered, but that leaves more than 3,000 sleeping rough. Residents of the city of 641,000 people have told DailyMail.com that they're sick of tents being erected on sidewalks, grassy areas and beside canals. Officials have started tearing down encampments, but tents have sprung back up again within hours. Business owners complain about vagrants defecating in front of their stores. Walmart in March said it was shuttering its Portland outlets. The survey echoes fears that Portland has gone from a kooky progressive city with great restaurants and reliable public transportation to a hellscape with high taxes and overstretched city services. Some 55 percent of respondents said Portland 'has lost what made it a special place to live.' The same share said they did not feel safe taking their family downtown. Meanwhile, 61 percent of voters said handing out tents and tarps to the homeless only made the crisis worse. Drug users smoking fentanyl, a powerful opioid, in the once thriving downtown area of Portland Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler (left), and Mike Schmidt, Multnomah County District Attorney, have both suffered among voters due to crime, drugs, and homelessness Tents line the sidewalk on SW Clay St in Portland, Oregon Multnomah County's homeless population reached 5,228 last year a rise of more than 1,200 against 2019 Voters blamed their elected officials Mayor Wheeler and District Attorney Mike Schmidt both received unfavorable ratings. More than two thirds said officials were out of touch and only listened to a 'small group of political activists' and ignored everyday residents. Though Republicans sought tougher action on social problems, Democrats were also concerned about the state of Portland. Some 71 percent of Democrats called homelessness an 'out-of-control disaster.' The poll, carried out this month by GS Strategy Group, posed questions that some pollsters would describe as leading and may have fostered results critical of city policies. Portland's city council was on Wednesday set to vote on whether to adopt a broad ban on outdoor camping on public property across the city reversing a stance against criminalizing homelessness. 'My goal is to have enough shelter, housing, and treatment access available so that we can fully eliminate unsanctioned, unsheltered camping in Portland,' Wheeler said in a statement ahead of the talks. This is the astonishing moment a motorist flipped her car after hitting the ramp of a tow truck at full-speed, before crashing 120ft through the air into a vehicle in front. The Georgia State Patrol confirmed a 21-year-old Tallahassee woman was severely injured in the airborne crash on Highway 84, but miraculously managed to survive. Bodycam footage from a Lowndes County Sheriff's deputy, at the time attending to a crash on the other side of the road, caught the dramatic moment of impact. The deputy rushed to help the driver, who was transported to South Georgia Medical Center after the crash near Valdosta, GA last week. On Wednesday, ABC11 reported that officers had tried to interview the woman about what caused the crash, but her injuries are reportedly keeping her from speaking. The red tow truck comes into view as the deputy on the opposite side of the road looks left A worker in a vest walks in front of the truck as the black car comes into view (right lane) Without warning, the grey car behind hits the back of the stopped truck and launches itself In the video, the deputy is seen walking along the stopped highway on the other side while attending to a separate crash. What is the Move Over Law? The Move Over Law requires drivers to move over one lane where possible if an emergency vehicle is parked on the shoulder of a highway. If traffic is too heavy to do so safely, cars are expected to slow down to the posted speed limit instead - and be prepared to stop. In Georgia, motorists can be fined $500 for breaking the law. 30 states have Move Over Laws on the books with varying penalties up to thousands of dollars. Advertisement The camera turns as he faces the other side of the road with the red tow truck in view. A black car passes as a worker in a fluorescent jacket steps in front of the stopped truck. But without warning, the motorist in the grey car hits the back of the truck, ripping off a large part of the front bumper as it makes contact. The car is then seen to spin through the air, turning on its side and appearing to hit the black car in front in the right hand lane. The deputy sheriff runs to help the young driver while calling in the accident over the radio. Debris is seen scattered across the road and in the grass as the officer runs on. The clip cuts out as the driver approaches the car, showing the extent of damage to the front of the rolled car. Local outlet WCTV said that the incident had brought attention to Georgia's Move Over Law, which requires drivers to slow down and switch lanes when approaching an emergency vehicle, including a tow truck. The car flies through the air. Part of the one of the wheels is pictured top right of the frame The car turns onto its side before making impact with the ground and the car 120ft in front The deputy officer witnesses the incident and runs past car parts towards the horror crash A police incident report said the car 'vaulted' around 120 feet over the tow truck after launching off its ramp. The cause of the crash on the other side of the road was not clear. It was not clear whether the driver would face charges related to the accident. Police confirm Amanda Hicks was stabbed to death by her unnamed fiance The 26-year-old Florida teacher who was found dead Saturday in a suspected murder-suicide, was stabbed to death by her fiance, police confirmed. Amanda Hicks was killed by the unnamed man inside their Port St. Lucie apartment early Saturday before he took his own life. Neighbors reported hearing a 'very loud, screechy scream' and a sound of a single gunshot. A family member of the suspect said the suspect had tried to call an hour before the tragic murder. He tried to return the call in the morning and asked police to conduct a welfare check. When police arrived at the residence, they heard the crying of the 10-month old baby who was locked inside the apartment, just feet away from the two dead bodies. The couple's baby was found unharmed in her crib, approximately 11 hours after the murder and is currently with family members of the victim. Amanda Hicks, 26, was found dead Saturday morning at the apartment complex in Port St. Lucie which she had moved in to three weeks ago Police confirm Amanda Hicks was stabbed to death by her fiance. Cops are pictured on Saturday outside the Peacock Run apartment complex where they found Hicks dead along with the unnamed man. Baby Alani was born in July 2022. She was found alive after police entered the apartment Amanda Hicks' death was initially confirmed by the principal of Anderson Middle School, where the beloved sixth-grade teacher worked. It was the couple's third week living in the Peacock Run apartments on Northwest East Torino Parkway. Tributes from friends and family have been pouring in for the teacher since her death. Her brother Eric is also raising money online for his sister's funeral. 'Yall plz help us raise money for my sisters funeral and service and everything,' he wrote. Raquel Magallon, a close friend of Hicks, told WBPF that she was 'an angel' who brought joy to all those who knew her. 'She just lit up the room,' she said. 'She had such a big, beautiful smile. She was always happy and always energetic. She was just an angel. She definitely brightened my day every time I saw her.' Hicks is seen in a YouTube video discussing her favorite places to snorkel along the Florida coast Hicks is pictured with her brother, Eric, who posted on Facebook 'Yall plz help us raise money for my sisters funeral and service and everything' Hicks, a sixth-grade teacher, is pictured with her mother, who died from cancer in December 2018 Police were called to the Peacock Run apartment complex on Saturday and her Hicks' daughter crying, when they saw two bodies Eric Hicks in a 2018 photo with his sister, slain teacher Amanda Hicks Tributes from friends and family have been pouring in for the teacher since her death A childhood friend Maria Uphues wrote on Facebook: 'Even though the plan was to grow old and reminiscence about all the highs and lows we've experienced, I am so grateful to have had you in my life for these past 19 years. 'You were absolutely gorgeous inside and out and this world will never be the same without you Your creativity was pure art.' Uphues said she was grateful that the baby, Alani, was found unharmed. 'I can't even express my gratefulness for Alani being found unharmed but nothing can ever fully replace having her parents by her side.' 'I love you girl and look forward to embracing you again one day,' she said. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un may be suffering from insomnia as well as alcohol and nicotine dependency, South Korea's intelligence agency has said. The National Intelligence Service (NIS) delivered a report on Wednesday, claiming that Kim's unhealthy habits mean he may weigh well over 300lb (almost 140kg). The report said the South had intelligence that North Korea's top officials had been scrambling to gather information on insomnia and the medication needed to treat the sleep disorder. South Korea's spy agency said it was monitoring Kim's health and believed he may be on the verge of falling into a vicious cycle of alcohol and nicotine abuse that would be perpetuated by his insomnia. A large import of foreign cigarettes and expensive snacks has recently been monitored arriving in the country, officials said, despite the country's food crisis. Kim Jong Un holding a cigarette in Pyongyang, North Korea, surrounded by military officials and his daughter (left) A smiling Kim Jong Un with a lit cigarette perched between his fingers North Korean leader Kim Jong Un drinks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in during a truce inside the demilitarized zone on April 27, 2018 'Based on the fact that North Korean authorities have been actively collecting the latest medical information, including medications such as zolpidem, for the treatment of insomnia in high-ranking officials abroad in April, the NIS estimates Chairman Kim is suffering from significant sleep disorders,' Yoo Sang-bum of the ruling People Power Party told the country's reporters following a private briefing. 'Chairman Kim looked very tired with noticeable dark circles under his eyes during his public appearance on May 16,' Yoo told reporters. He said the intelligence agency had studied recent images of Kim and estimated his weight to be around 140kg (309lb). South Korean analysts are said to have been monitoring scratches and bruises that have appeared on Kim's hand and arms. Yoo said this was believed to be a form of stress-induced dermatitis and allergies. The NIS told reporters it had recently tracked a large import of Marlboro and Dunhill cigarettes into North Korea, as well as high-end snacks. Kim is known to be a frequent smoker and is regularly seen with a cigarette in hand in state-approved photographs. The NIS also said starvation and suicide deaths had recently surged in North Korea as a result of a worsening food shortage. It estimated that these deaths had tripled over recent years, becoming one of the worst rates during Kim's time in power. Kim Jong Un smokes a cigarette at North Korea's General Satellite Control and Command Center after a rocket launch in December 2012 Kim is caught lighting up in a grainy image of the North Korean leader in Hanoi, Vietnam, in February 2019 Kim has tried to take action against these deaths, the NIC said. It said he had claimed suicide as an 'act of treason against socialism'. The South Korean spy agency also delivered information on North Korea's failed satellite launch on Wednesday, which it said Kim was likely to have watched. The launch failure was a setback to a push to boost his military capabilities as tensions with the United States and South Korea rise. After an unusually quick admission of failure, North Korea vowed to conduct a second launch after it analysed what went wrong. It suggests Kim remains determined to expand his weapons arsenal and apply more pressure on Washington and Seoul while diplomacy is stalled. South Korea and Japan briefly urged residents in some areas to take shelter after the launch. The South Korean military said it was salvaging an object presumed to be part of the crashed North Korean rocket in waters 125 miles west of the south-western island of Eocheongdo. Later, the Defense Ministry released photos of a white metal cylinder it described as a suspected rocket part. Holly Willoughby will have to leave This Morning amid the scandal over Phillip Schofield because she is now 'damaged goods', a former ITV director said today. Willoughby is due to return to This Morning next Monday following the half-term break, having taken an early holiday when news of Schofield's departure emerged. Former ITV commercial director Ian McCulloch said although it appears she is 'clinging on', producers now need to make a clean break and 'move the show on'. It comes after former presenter Eamonn Holmes predicted that Willoughby, 42, will not return to the sofa on ITV's daytime show following Schofield's bombshell exit. Schofield, 61, resigned from ITV on Friday and was dropped by his agency YMU after admitting to an 'unwise, but not illegal' affair with a younger male colleague. The relationship took place while Schofield was still married to wife Stephanie Lowe and before he came out publicly as gay. Since his resignation, the show has been plagued by allegations of 'toxicity' - which has also impacted Willoughby's standing. Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby on the sofa of ITV's This Morning earlier this month Producers have also faced guests turning down offers to appear on This Morning - and its biggest sponsor, car dealer Arnold Clark, has confirmed it will not be renewing an existing multi-million-pound deal with the channel in autumn. READ MORE Amanda Holden says she'll never make up with Phillip Schofield after he 'ghosted' her following This Morning feud in unearthed clip Advertisement Mr McCulloch, who left ITV in 2007 after 27 years with the broadcaster, told GB News today: 'I do absolutely agree that none of the on-screen talent, well, those two, they cannot be associated with the show. She's damaged goods. 'They need a fresh start. I'm not sure that the talent that they've got, sort of running through at the minute, is the right talent. But I think the show is a good show, but you certainly can't have those two. 'There is so much more to come out in this story. And I don't think her statements are particularly plausible, though it looks as though she's clinging on. I think they need to make a clean [break] and just move the show on.' In a discussion with the Daily Mail's Andrew Pierce and former Daily Star editor Dawn Neesom, Mr McCulloch said: 'I think from an advertiser's point of view, they buy the programme. 'I think if Phil and Holly are no longer there, the programme runs on. 'I suspect ratings are probably going up as people want to watch the unfolding car crash. But as you know, it reaches people. It's a great show. They just let it go off the rails.' He added: 'This is about governance. It's about creative governance, refreshing shows, not creating monsters that you then can't control and we've seen it in so many shows. Former ITV commercial director Ian McCulloch said Willoughby appears to be 'clinging on' On Saturday, Willoughby wrote on Instagram that it had 'taken time to process yesterday's news' following Schofield's statement 'It's happened again, the creative control isn't there. They haven't refreshed the show. We've got it in peak time with ITV, where you can see some shows are starting to look tired and they need resting. 'I think from the public's point of view, this almost looks like an episode of Love Island. You put a bunch of egomaniacs together and see what's going to explode, and over time this has exploded.' It comes after a source said Willoughby will return to present This Morning next week and 'carry on like the professional she is'. The source told The Sun: 'She has made it clear she was one of the people Phil lied to and she has nothing to hide. 'She will return to This Morning as planned on Monday and carry on like the professional she is. 'Holly has been affected by Phil's actions and it has been very difficult. She is devoted to This Morning, however, and will continue to do the best job she can for them.' On Saturday, Willoughby wrote on Instagram that it had 'taken time to process yesterday's news' following Schofield's statement, adding: 'When reports of this relationship first surfaced, I asked Phil directly if this was true and was told it was not. It's been very hurtful to now find out that this was a lie.' Willoughby's return comes as This Morning has been plagued by allegations of 'toxicity' since Schofield's exit, with Holmes alleging there was a 'total cover-up' over the Schofield affair. Dame Carolyn McCall, ITV's chief executive, could face questioning next week from MPs This Morning's former resident doctor, Dr Ranj Singh (pictured in 2019), has hit out at the show The show's former resident doctor, Dr Ranj Singh, also hit out at the show's 'toxic' culture, saying he raised concerns about 'bullying and discrimination' two years ago when he worked there and afterwards felt like he was 'managed out' for whistleblowing. READ MORE This Morning goes into damage control with social media blackout as they stay under the radar with NO posts since Phillip Schofield's affair was exposed Advertisement ITV bosses are expected to appear before MPs on the Commons culture, media and sport committee, where the issue of Schofield's conduct could be raised. The session is expected to focus on scrutiny of the forthcoming Media Bill, with SNP MP John Nicolson - a committee member - writing on Twitter: 'The issues erupting around ITV have been a cause for concern. 'I look forward to getting some answers from ITV bosses.' Dame Carolyn McCall, ITV's chief executive, could be among those to face questioning next week from MPs, The Times reports. In an Instagram post on Monday, Schofield hit back at critics, saying that there was 'no toxicity' on This Morning. Referring to those comments, Holmes, who previously presented ITV's flagship daytime show on Fridays with wife Ruth Langsford, instead accused Schofield of 'toxicity' adding: 'But, my friend, the toxicity is not with me, Dan Wootton or anyone else. The toxicity is with you.' Yesterday, the Prince's Trust dropped Schofield as an ambassador, saying it is 'no longer appropriate' to work with him. A spokesman for the charity, founded by the King in in 1976, said: 'In light of Phillip's recent admissions, we have agreed with him that it is no longer appropriate to work together.' ITV also said it was 'deeply disappointed' by his 'admissions of deceit' but it had not found 'any evidence beyond hearsay and rumour' about the relationship in its own investigation. Phillip Schofield with Holly Willoughby, Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford in February 2020 On Saturday, a spokesperson said: 'Further to our statement last night, ITV can confirm that when rumours of a relationship between Phillip Schofield and an employee of ITV first began to circulate in early 2020 ITV investigated. READ MORE ITV bosses to face grilling by MPs next week over Phillip Schofield affair scandal as broadcaster faces questions about who knew what and when Advertisement 'Both parties were questioned and both categorically and repeatedly denied the rumours, as did Phillip's then agency YMU. 'In addition, ITV spoke to a number of people who worked on This Morning and were not provided with, and did not find, any evidence of a relationship beyond hearsay and rumour. 'Phillip's statement yesterday reveals that he lied to people at ITV, from senior management to fellow presenters, to YMU, to the media and to others over this relationship.' When This Morning aired on Monday, hosts Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond and contributor Gyles Brandreth appeared to defend the show from the toxicity allegations. Schofield had presented This Morning since 2002, with Willoughby joining the programme in 2009. The pair's friendly relationship and informal nature on the programme resulted in viral segments and industry recognition, including multiple National Television Awards. De Souza has been named a suspect, but he has not been charged or arrested Rio de Janeiro police revealed Jefferson Machado sent Bruno de Souza a message asking for help to land a soap opera role to fulfill his grandpa's dream A Brazilian actor who was found dead inside a wooden trunk buried under an outhouse had begged his suspect friend for help in landing a role in a soap opera so that he could fulfill his grandparents' dream. In an audio message obtained by Rio de Janeiro police investigating the murder, Jefferson Machado asked Bruno de Souza if he could put in a good word for him at TV Globo. 'Yesterday my grandfather, 98 years old, and my grandmother, 92, asked to call you,' the late 44-year-old actor said in the message. 'My grandfather said, 'My son, will it take a long time to make a soap opera? Because grandpa is old and wanted to see you on TV.' The audio message comes just days after Rio de Janeiro authorities named de Souza as a suspect in the death of Machado, whose body was unearthed from a hole that was dug six feet under the property on May 22. Before he was murdered, Brazilian actor Jeff Machado sought help from the suspect, his friend Bruno de Souza, and sent him an audio message in which he mentioned that his grandfather's dream was to seen him on TV Rio de Janeiro authorities have named Bruno de Souza, a former employee at TV Globo, as a suspect in the murder of Machado, who was found dead May 22 inside a trunk The burried trunk was removed from under the floor by Civil Police agents in Rio de Janeiro on Monday De Souza has yet to be charged or arrested for the murder of Machado, who was found in the trunk with his hands and feet tied, a telephone wire wrapped around his neck and a piece of cloth stuffed in his mouth. Machado, whose last acting role came in the 2022 Record TV soap opera, 'Reis,' told de Souza he had thought about calling him, but instead was sending him a message because he wanted to give him space since he was grieving the recent loss of his grandmother and mother. He recognized how 'special' Rodrigues was because he had helped him in the past. 'Bruno don't give up on me. You give me strength,' Machado said. 'I wanted to go (about it) in right away so my grandpa could see me. 'Grandpa came to give me some advice, 'When you want something, you have to be persistent and go after it, even if it's inconvenient.' I'm not going to call you directly, but I sent this quiet audio at home and I'm not anxious.' In the audio it's unknown when it was recorded Machado reveals that he was looking for employment because he was out of money and that he wanted to do anything that was possible to prevent a move back to his hometown in the southern state of Santa Catarina. 'I really need it. I want to reinvent myself,' he said. 'You know my story and my life is going to change. It is what I want. I don't know why you came across my path.' Brazilian actor Machado was an avid animal lover and owned eight dogs before he was found dead in a trunk Machado told Rodrigues that he was not aware that he was employed by TV Globo, although the network's news magazine show, Fantastico, revealed Sunday that he was fired him in 2018. 'After you asked me what I did and I said that I did extras, I thought it was all a coincidence. Give me a preview, just so I can get an idea. Thank you darling,' he said. 'I will never forget you supporting me without asking for anything in return. A strong hug. When you want to come home tell me, I'll come get you.' Investigators said Machado may have been killed in January after he found out that he had been scammed by those responsible for the murder. The murder would have taken place shortly after de Souza went to the police to report Machado had disappeared after he had traveled to the nearby state of Sao Paulo for a job interview. His mother, Maria das Dores, told Fantastico he had three payments totaling $5,200 so that Rodrigues could assist him in getting the soap opera acting gig. 'You have a dream that is so strong inside you that the impression is that you (are) blind to reality,' das Dores said. White men trying to join the RAF were branded 'useless' by recruitment officers, leaked emails have revealed. The emails, which are set to renew a row over diversity quotas, were sent by a squadron leader in the air force's recruitment division in January 2021. They expose the pressure that officers appeared to be under to filter out white male recruits and fast-track women and ethnic minorities. The RAF is also reportedly paying 5,000 each to 31 white men who it found had been unfairly disadvantaged by its recruitment policy. And some selection boards were cancelled if they did not include women or ethnic minorities, according to the leaked messages. White men trying to join the RAF were branded 'useless' by recruitment officers, leaked emails have revealed. Above: Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston addresses RAF personnel One email seen by Sky News, which was sent on January 19, 2021 under the subject line 'BOARDING PROFILE', reads: 'I would be grateful if you could provide me with a breakdown of the candidates awaiting boarding, by Br [branch - the type of profession, such as pilot, engineer or chef] and BAME [black, Asian and minority ethnic]/Female.' He continued: 'I noted that the boards have recently been predominantly white male heavy, if we don't have enough BAME and female to board then we need to make the decision to pause boarding and seek more BAME and female from the RF [recruitment force]. 'I don't really need to see loads of useless white male pilots, lets [sic] get a [sic] focussed as possible, I am more than happy to reduce boarding if needed to have a balanced BAME/female/Male board.' The Ministry of Defence has stressed that the 'useless' remark did not refer to individuals' talent, but rather the fact their recruitment would not help boost diversity targets. An email sent the following day by the same squadron leader to a more senior member of the recruitment team suggested they were struggling to hit diversity targets. It also described the efforts being made to get more women and ethnic minority candidates onto selection boards. Selection boards are used to choose recruits for different branches at RAF Halton and RAF Cranwell, the air force's training colleges. The emails expose the pressure that officers appeared to be under to filter out white male recruits and fast-track women and ethnic minorities The second email read: 'You will note however that the pot for BAME and female is drained. 'From 336 Cs [candidates] we have c10% female, 5% BAME which we will burn through quickly using the boarding profile proposed. 'As you know we select approx. 45-50% of BAME and female that we board therefore we expect to select c15 female and 7 BAME from the current cohort. 'The demand signal needs to go back to RF [the recruitment force] to focus now on sending all the BAME and female they have. 'We have cancelled 2 x boards next week due to them having no female/BAME or priority Br [priority branch] on them'. The emails date back to when recruitment and selection was led by Group Captain William Dole. He succeeded Group Captain Elizabeth Nicholl, who resigned in protest at what she deemed to be an 'unlawful order' to effectively pause the selection of white men in an effort to hit 'impossible' diversity targets, according to defence sources. The order was never implemented because of her resignation. An RAF spokesman said: 'The Royal Air Force will not shy away from the challenges we face building a Service that attracts and recruits talent from every part of the UK workforce. 'We will continue doing everything we can to increase our recruiting intake from under-represented groups within the provisions of the law. 'All individuals joining the Royal Air Force were and are selected on merit and any individuals that were advanced to their training courses had already passed the selection process. 'There was no compromise of entry standards and no impact on the frontline or operational effectiveness.' It comes after the outgoing chief of the RAF admitted the air force made mistakes in its diversity recruitment drive. It comes after the outgoing chief of the RAF admitted the air force made mistakes in its diversity recruitment drive. Above: Air Chief Marshall Sir Mike Wigston Air Chief Marshall Sir Mike Wigston, who is retiring next month, said: 'We were doing all we could to tackle this intractable problem, which is the lack of diversity in our service.' But the Chief of the Air Staff revealed that the failing recruitment drive resulted in the resignation of a senior official, which he described as a 'regrettable outcome'. His goals had been for 40 per cent of the force's personnel to be women and 20 per cent to be from ethnic minorities by the end of the decade. Sir Mike, 55, said one of the mistakes made was that those 'aspirational goals filtered down into people's personal objectives in-year, which they found almost impossible to meet'. 'That put intolerable pressure on them and I've apologised to the recruiting and selection organisation,' he added. A provision in the new debt deal compromise to expand work requirements for food benefit recipients that Republican leaders are cheering would actually put 78,000 additional people on the public assistance program over a five year period. The reason, according to an analysis released Tuesday night by the Congressional Budget office, is that a series of waivers and exceptions included in the language would outweigh the people getting kicked off the benefit through the expanded work requirement. 'I have renamed this bill the sleight of hand spending bill,' complained Texas Rep. Keith Self, who singled out the provision for criticism. 'We've been very proud of the work requirements. In this bill we have temporary work requirements, but we've added permanent new exceptions.' The CBO outlined the reasons in its analysis of the debt deal, which is speeding toward a floor vote set for Wednesday evening. Speaker Kevin McCarthy and his leadership team have been stressing the expanded work requirements for people on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in the debt deal. But new exemptions will lead to an estimated increase in recipients, according to CBO Under current law, able-bodied adults under 50 face work or job training requirements of 80 hours per month to get benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The bill gradually raises the age to 54, which would push people off the program. But the deal also includes new exceptions that Democratic negotiators pushed for. These would apply to people experiencing homelessness, veterans, and those 18-24 who were in foster care at age 18. The changes would result in $2.1 billion in additional spending over a decade, according to CBO. During the 20252030 period, when the group of people up to the age of 54 would be subject to the work requirement and the new exclusions were in effect, approximately 78,000 people would gain benefits in an average month, on net (an increase of about 0.2 percent in the total number of people receiving SNAP benefits),' according to the analysis. That is due to 'offsetting effects': the raised age for work requirements would reduce spending by $6.5 billion, but the new exclusions would increase spending by $6.8 billion. Director of the Office of Management and Budget and White House negotiator Shalanda Young said the savings from a new work requirement for SNAP benefits and new exemptions being added would be 'a wash' Rep. Dan Bishop (R-NC) and other Freedom Caucus members have been hammering the budget deal Former Trump OMB Director Russ Vought ripped GOP negotiators for being outfoxed GOP leaders are cheering expanded work requirements for SNAP benefits in the budget deal Stormie Whitten, 25, uses her Maine EBT card while shopping for groceries at Paul's grocery store. Gov. Paul LePage announced Wednesday that Maine will no longer seek a federal waiver that allows some able-bodied adults to receive food stamps without working or volunteering. The debt deal heading to a vote expands work requirements by adjusting the age range Some of the exemptions would be for people under 50, which would bring the total direct spending increase to an estimated $1.8 billion. Republicans backing the deal negotiated by leadership pushed back on congressional scorekeepers Tuesday night. 'The simple answer is the CBO got [it] wrong,' said Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.), a Kevin McCarthy ally. But White House Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young, who helped negotiate the deal, predicted earlier Tuesday that the changes would offset. 'We believe those who are off of those requirements, because of those exemptions, will be about the same number as those who are phased in on age,' she told reporters at the White House Tuesday. 'And you have to remember this: This entire SNAP change is sunset in 2030 to give Congress a chance to see how the new exemptions work and how the new ages work. And they can opine on a future farm bill if these changes have made a difference in the SNAP program,' she said, referencing the legislation that authorizes the program. She predicted the numbers would be 'a wash' in terms of who goes on and those who come off the program. Former Trump OMB director Russ Vought, who has been savaging the deal on Twitter even as many House Republicans embrace it wrote: 'The gang can't shoot straight, folks. Work requirements are supposed to save money.' Also bashing the trade-off were Reps. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) and Andrew Clyde (R-Ga.), both members of the conservative Freedom Caucus. Michael and Kristine Barnett adopted Natalia Grace in 2010 and were both acquitted of neglect charges in October 2022 after they were charged with abandoning her to live alone in an apartment while they moved to Canada. An explosive ID documentary, called The Curious Case of Natalia Grace goes over the bizarre tale of the Ukrainian dwarf and features her sitting at a table reading a Bible, and telling her adoptive mother she is trying to 'get rid of evil thoughts'. That clip is among a series of disturbing behaviors exhibited by Natalia who is accused of terrorizing her adoptive family in Indiana. Who is Natalia Grace? Believed to be a six-year-old Ukrainian orphan, Grace was adopted by the Barnetts, an Indiana couple in 2010. Natalia is now an adult woman with a form of dwarfism called spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia. Natalia Grace in 2010 at the Bennett family home Pictured: Natalia in her adoptive parents' home. Believed to be a six-year-old Ukrainian orphan, Grace was adopted by the Barnetts, an Indiana couple in 2010 When did Michael and Kristine Barnett adopt her and why? The couple decided to adopt a foreign orphan on April 26, 2010 from a center in Florida. They believed they were giving a home to a six-year-old child in need. In the documentary, Michael describes that the family made the decision when life was 'fantastic'. He and his wife were raising their three sons, had 'hundreds of thousands of dollars in the bank', and a brand new home. 'Early 2010, we were blessed with many things. By the time 2014 came around, I have 37 cents in my bank account, I have no wife, I have no children, I have no home and no job. If Natalia never entered our lives, I never get divorced.' The Barnetts' dream life quickly turned into a nightmare when they realized Natalia Grace may be a violent and threatening menace. Natalia Grace pictured with her adoptive father in 2010 How long after adopting her did Michael and Kristine Barnett begin to suspect Natalia Grace was an adult? They started to question her true age shortly after the adoption. While giving Natalia a bath after spending the day at Disneyland, he said Kristine let out a blood-curdling scream from the bathroom when she noticed the girl they thought was only six had 'full pubic hair'. In the months after that, the couple allege that there was 'a lot of escalation'. This included discovering she had been hiding her period from them for months. On one occasion, when Natalia met another six-year-old with a rare bone disorder named spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, the stark difference in age became seemingly undisputable. Natalia, who did not speak with a Ukrainian accent, towered over her playmate, while her bone structure and vocabulary were far more advanced. As the months wore on, Michael claimed it became apparent they were living with a menace, to the point she 'threatened to stab' her new siblings. 'She tried to poison and kill my wife,' Michael added. '(And) one night, I opened my eyes and Natalia is standing at the foot of the bed with a knife in her hand.' In never-before-seen footage, the documentary shows Natalia's suspect behavior inside her adoptive home, including sitting at a table reading the bible. When asked why she chose to read it, she responds: 'To get rid of these evil thoughts.' 'She would do as much as possible to cause hurt or harm or mental distress to the entire family,' Michael said. What happened to Michael and Kristine Barnett immediately after their suspicions came to light? After taking the child to a psychiatrist after several months, Michael said he was stunned by the diagnosis. Instead of the expected result of schizophrenia or that Natalia was hearing voices, the expert told them something worse - she was a 'sociopath'. As the couple's concerns over Natalia's true age grew, Kristine attempted to get the 'truth' out of her by allegedly increasingly aggressive means, including forcing Natalia to stand by a wall for extended periods of time. Both Michael and his son allege in the documentary that Kristine was physically abusive to Natalia. Looking back on her treatment of the orphan, Kristina's son Jake said: 'My mom firmly believed that Natalia was a hostile agent, and is not who she said she is.' On one occasion, Kristina allegedly trapped the youngster outside until she confessed to the 'truth', leading a neighbor to call the police. However, Michael claims the responding officer immediately realized it was not Natalia that was in danger, but his three sons. 'He knows instantly they are in grave danger,' he added. When questioned by the officer during an investigation, Natalia revealed that she was 'told her new birthdate at the orphanage in Ukraine' before she moved to the US. '(The officer) informs us he believes that her Ukrainian birth certificate is all bogus,' Michael said. A document from her migration into the country also allegedly revealed that she had not grown at all over four years, which Michael claims would still happen to some extent to a six year old despite her dwarfism. The numerous red flags led the family to seek an attorney, and in 2012 a petition launched by the family at probate court was granted and a judge legally changed her birth date from 2003 to 1989 on her Ukrainian birth document. After the couple was granted their petition, they decided to move her into an apartment in Lafayette - three counties away from where they lived - while they moved to Canada. Michael Barnett pictured after he is accused of changing his daughter's age leaving court in Tippecanoe county court today Pictured with partner and his lawyer Terrance Kinnard, Kinnard gives a statement to the press Picture Chris Bott Where are Michael and Kristine Barnett now? Michael said the family left her in Indiana and moved to Canada to support his 15-year-old prodigy son's time at college. But some of the family's critics claim the move was motivated by the desire to get rid of Natalia. The move led authorities to charge the couple with child neglect in 2011, despite their insistence Natalia was an adult woman whose age had been legally changed by a judge. Although the child neglect allegations against the Barnetts were dropped due to Natalia's legal age change, further charges of neglect stood due to her dwarfism, which made her dependent on the couple. Charges of neglect of a dependent, neglect of a dependent causing bodily injury, neglect of a dependent causing serious bodily injury and conspiracy to commit neglect of a dependent loomed over the couple for years. Michael was acquitted in October 2022, while Kristine's case was dismissed in March, just three weeks before her own trial. What happened to Natalia Grace next? Natalia appeared on Dr. Phil in November 2019 to share her story. In the televised interview, she was sitting next to Antwon and Cynthia Mans, another Indiana-based couple who took her in after she was left behind by the Barnett family. Despite being aware of abuse allegations against Grace by Kristine and Michael Barnett, the family expressed no concern. 'We have other children. We have a grandson,' said Cynthia. 'She does nothing but love her siblings and her nephew.' A heartbroken mother has paid tribute to her 'beautiful' daughter, who was killed in a horror house fire aged just five over the Bank Holiday weekend, as wellwishers launch a fundraising campaign to help the family lay her to rest. Little Alysia Salisbury, five, was trapped in the blaze at Pontyglasier, near Crymych, Pembrokeshire, as her two elder sisters were rescued and survived along with their parents. The family lost every thing they owned. Her mother Tara said: 'This weekend I lost the light in my life in the most horrific way possible. 'Everything she met was lit up by her beautiful smile. In one night, everything was cruelly taken from us. Life is not fair.' She passed on her gratitude to local people who have collected clothes, linen and every every basic for herself, Alysia's father Josh and two sisters aged 10 and 12 to try to rebuild their lives. Alysia Salisbury, five, was trapped in the blaze as her two elder sisters were rescued More than 12,000 has so far been raised to fund Alysia's funeral and help the family rebuild their lives A crowdfunder on GoFundMe has raised more than 12,000 for the family. Organiser Shon Rees said: 'It is awful beyond words. Not only have they lost a lovely little girl but everything they owned has gone up in flames. 'Every stitch of clothing - they even had a borrow a phone charger to contact family. 'But people are being very generous. Everyone feels for them and are giving everything they can.' Fundraiser Beccy Eynon said donations will go towards helping Alysia's mum Tara pay for her daughter's funeral as well as going towards helping the family find a new home to live in after they lost everything in the fire. Beccy said: 'Alysia was a sweet, happy little girl who loved animals and the great outdoors. 'She was happiest out in the rain wearing nothing but a T-shirt and shorts. She adored her two older sisters, Abigail and Jessica, and they took such good care of her.' Police said despite the efforts of emergency services Alysia died at the scene on the edge of the 300-strong population village Police were called to a residence in Dolgoed, Crymych shortly before 10pm yesterday for reports of a house fire Drone images show the damage of the fire, which tore through the roof of the property Police said despite the efforts of emergency services Alysia died at the scene on the edge of the 300-strong population village. Local councillor John Davies said of the family: 'They are in trauma and devastated. They have lost everything but most importantly a dearly-loved member of the family. They had three children before the fire, now they are left with this.' Mr Davies said: 'This is a tragedy of the very highest order and our thoughts go out to everyone who has been affected by this event. 'We're now organising a collection of clothes and food to help support the family in the days that lie ahead. 'People are already very generously offering clothing and linen along with money. 'The family moved here about four years ago and I believe they are going to stay with relatives out of the area. It is devastating.' The appeal is for clothing for girls aged 10 to 12 and for 'Young, slender adults.' Bed linen, towels and toiletries are also urgently needed. Throughout the night, emergency services personnel diligently worked to extinguish the fire, with multiple fire tenders, police units, and paramedics present at the scene. The cause is being investigated and an inquest will be held. The family's GoFundMe can be found here. The incident roughly coincided with a visit by the US Defense Secretary to the region The plane got within 400 feet of the US aircraft and caused a wake that the Americans had to navigate A Chinese J-16 fighter jet flew across the path of a USAF reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea The Pentagon has called a maneuver in which a Chinese fighter jet swooped across the path of an American spy plane over the South China Sea 'unprofessional' and 'unnecessarily aggressive'. A pilot of the Chinese J-16 flew roughly 400 feet in front of the nose of the manned RC-135, 'forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence,' defense officials said. US officials released footage that showed the harrowing moment when the Chinese jet came into the path of the US aircraft. But Chinese military leaders hit back at the American characterization and said the US spy plane 'deliberately intruded' into its training area. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters at a briefing that China would keep taking measures it deems necessary to safeguard its sovereignty. 'The US should immediately stop these dangerous provocations,' she said. A pilot of the Chinese J-16 flew roughly 400 feet in front of the nose of the manned RC-135, US defense officials said Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington, posted a tweet on Thursday claiming the reconnaissance aircraft was 'disturbing a routine exercise by the Shandong aircraft carrier group' Those advocating for heightened US military support of Ukraine have claimed it sends an important message to China over its threats to Taiwan. Video of the US-China encounter on May 26 shows the Chinese jet approaching from the right before gently pulling across and into the path of the USAF reconnaissance plane. 'The US Indo-Pacific Joint Force will continue to fly in international airspace with due regard for the safety of all vessels and aircraft under international law,' read a statement accompanying the video. 'We expect all countries in the Indo-Pacific region to use international airspace safely and in accordance with international law.' The incident adds to military, diplomatic and economic tensions between the countries over US support for self-governing Taiwan. China says it owns the South China Sea virtually in its entirety, a claim not recognized internationally and directly challenged by nations along its coast including the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia. The maneuver created turbulence for the US aircraft which was captured in video from the cockpit Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning (pictured in October 2022) told reporters that China would keep taking measures it deems necessary to safeguard its sovereignty The maneuver came as this month Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin made a trip to the Indo-Pacific region to meet with regional defense leaders. He is pictured in Japan during the visit The most recent maneuver came as Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin made a trip to the Indo-Pacific region to meet with regional defense leaders. Yet, on Monday, the Pentagon said China had rejected a request for Austin to meet with his Chinese counterpart Li Shangfu during a conference in Singapore. China has also refused to engage in dialogue between US and Chinese armed forces over the flying of spy balloons over the American continent. Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday and Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday that the plane incident showed why it is vital for the US and China to maintain dialogue at a senior level in order to prevent miscommunication and avoid miscalculations that could lead to conflict. He said it was 'regrettable' that Beijing had rejected Austin's request for a meeting with the Chinese defense minister. 'I think it only underscores why it is so important that we have regular, open lines of communication, including by the way between our defense ministers,' Blinken said at a news conference at the end of an EU-US trade and technology meeting in Lulea, Sweden. 'As we've said repeatedly, while we have a real competition with China, we also want to make sure that doesn't veer into conflict and the most important starting point for that are regular lines of communication,' he said. On Monday the Pentagon said China had rejected a request for Austin to meet with his Chinese counterpart Li Shangfu (pictured) during a conference in Singapore The incident adds to military, diplomatic and economic tensions between the countries over US support for self-governing Taiwan. Pictured is Chinese President Xi Jinping on May 19 China has said the US is entirely responsible for the breakdown in communications, but has not publicly given a reason. China frequently challenges military aircraft from the US and its allies in the South and East China Seas, as well as the Taiwan Strait connecting the two. Such behavior led in 2001 to an in-air collision between a Chinese fighter and US Navy surveillance plane in which the Chinese plane was lost and pilot killed. Late last year, the US said a Chinese plane flew within 20 feet of an American aircraft over the South China Sea, according to the New York Times. In February, the Chinese military ordered a US plane away from its airspace and flew a jet within 500 feet of the American aircraft, according to Fox News. In Tuesday's statement, the Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to 'fly, sail, and operate - safely and responsibly - wherever international law allows,' and expects all other countries to do the same. New footage has emerged calling into question the innocence of three Marines involved a brawl with a mob of teenagers. The video shows the teen provoking the servicemen who are seen staggering about San Clemente beach topless clutching bottles of beer on Friday night. One of the servicemen lashes out at the teens, dropping his bottle of beer in the process, and has to be restrained by his comrade as the kids continue to goad them while filming on their phones. Nine teens have since been arrested over the attack which saw the servicemen kicked repeatedly as they lay on the ground, leaving at least one of them concussed. The assault on the Marines has been widely condemned, including by the local mayor, particularly as it fell on Memorial Day weekend. The new video shows the moment a large group surround two of the Marines as they start pushing each other back and forth In another previously unseen clip, Antonino is seen clutching a bottle of whiskey completely surrounded by the teenagers as he appears to play cards with them Antonino, pictured here, said that the fight had started after they asked the teens to stop lighting fireworks The Marines say they were assaulted after confronting the group over letting off fireworks. But footage taken prior to the all out brawl shows Marine Hunter Antonino drinking around a number of the teenagers and openly conversing with them, all the while clutching a bottle of whiskey. On Tuesday, Orange County Sheriff's Department confirmed they had charged four boys and one girl with assault with a deadly weapon and they would be held in juvenile hall. Another four have also been charged with misdemeanor assault and battery. San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan revealed that deputies have caught the main suspects in the mob of teenagers who launched the attack. He said: 'They think they have the people they are looking for. Not to say that there might not be a few others out there. They feel pretty confident that they have the main perpetrators.' Footage of the incident was used to track down those involved, the mayor added. 'In todays age, youre going to get caught people are going to record it,' Duncan said. 'I hope this serves as a learning lesson for young folks in the community not to let themselves get out of control when something like this happens.' When approached for comment on the latest footage of the incident, Orange County Sheriff's Department said they had not seen the new video. Hunter Antonino, one of the Marines, told KCAL that the fight began when he asked the teens to stop lighting fireworks Antonino said he and his friend were enjoying some rare time off from Camp Pendleton in Oceanside during the Memorial Day weekend when the crowd began setting off the fireworks. A piece of debris then hit him in the face and Antonino said he politely asked them to leave. He said: 'They were lighting off fireworks, they were being belligerent and obnoxious and annoying other people, so I went up to them and told them to stop,' he recounted. But the group followed him back to the pier, at which point Antonino said he and his friend warned the teenagers that they were Marines 'so they would leave, but they didn't.' A group of nine teenagers have now been arrested over the attack o the three Marines Hunter Antonino is seen here with a relative after signing on as a Marine in 2022 Antonino told KCAL the fight began when he told the teens to stop lighting fireworks In the original minute-long clip posted to Facebook, the Marines were seen trying to walk up the steps outside the Pier Bowl as a group of teenagers shouted at them. As they approached the stairs, a boy is seen brutally punching the back of one of the Marine's heads. The serviceman turned around and charged at the assailant, which led to an all-out brawl, as the kid's friends jumped in to take swings and kick him. Within seconds the group circled around the two Marines yelling 'Get that f***er' and 'f*** that f***er up,' even using the N-word at one point. The original attack began outside the Pier Bowl as the Marines began walking up the steps And two of the victims were seen curled up on the ground as the group continued to strike them with vicious kicks. The brawl only came to an end after two bystanders, an unknown man and woman, intervened and yelled at the children: 'Stop, what are you doing?' San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan described the Memorial Day weekend attack as 'tragic.' 'This is San Clemente, Marines are always welcome here, always going to be celebrated, always taken care of, and that is why this is so particularly tragic,' he said. An American mother-of-three was shot dead by robbers who invaded her farm in Ecuador, where she and her husband built their own 'humble Shangri-La.' Francesca Williams, from Poway, California, was shot in the back - near her heart - as the group of men tied down and beat up her husband, stabbed her father, and terrorized her three young daughters while they rummaged through their home. The five surviving family members 'endured horrendous trauma' following the invasion, in which 44-year-old Francesca - remembered as the 'light of their lives' - was killed on May 20. Michael Williams, her husband, has now recalled the horrific moment he realized their idyllic, rural farm in Vilcabamba, Ecuador, was being invaded. Francesca Williams, from Poway, California, lived in Colorado before moving to Ecuador with her family. But they experienced a terrifying break in, in which Francesca was shot dead Francesca Williams, her husband Michael, and their three daughters Rachel, Renee and Rebekah. They all lived at the farm in Vilcabamba, Ecuador The view of the family's rural home in Vilcabamba, Ecuador He told KDVR: 'We need to navigate this grief we are about to go through. There are a ton of different stages of this right now, were on a heightened level of anxiousness and security because we arent in a safe place. 'We never would have imagined people were staking us out. 'We are so far removed. Its a three-kilometer drive to and from. And to hike and in and out, its incomprehensible.' Williams was outside when he felt like he was hit in the head with a brick - and then Rachel, one Francesca's daughter, saw her grandpa on the floor with strange men, fighting them off. She then heard gunshots. The men made their way into the home ordering her and her other sister Renee around - asking in Spanish where the 'large aunt' was. Rachel said this was when she realized they may have had the wrong home, because no one matching that description had ever been at their property. Francesca Williams, from Poway, California, she was shot in the back - near her heart - as the group of men tied down and beat up her husband, stabbed her father, and terrorized her three daughters while they rummaged through their home Francesca was killed, while her husband and father (pictured) were beaten and stabbed during the ordeal. The daughters were physically unharmed but endured the horrific home raid Michael was meanwhile tied up by the robbers as they rummaged through the home, stealing their belongings before finally leaving. It was then that he got up and searched for his wife - who he found had been shot dead. Michael said: 'I found my wife and she had been killed. We ran down the hill and into our car and took her to emergency services, but it was too late for her.' Their other daughter Rebekah had seen what was unfolding and fled into a nearby jungle area. Speaking about how Francesca was doing all she could to help her family when the robbers arrived, Michael said: 'I think they saw Francesca as a threat and she was physically capable of handling that man. 'I think things could have been a lot worse if she didnt interfere. She probably did her best to make sure we were all alright.' The family moved to the country from their home in Colorado and set up a rural lifestyle, where they tended animals and lived in the countryside. Marianna Bacilla, Francesca's adoptive mom who lives in California, launched a fundraising page for her daughter in the wake of the tragedy. Francesca often shared images of her scenic life in Ecuador. It's unclear if this is her farm pictured Francesca (left) pictured with one of her daughters The GoFundMe read: 'On Saturday night, May 20th, my daughter Francesca Williams was killed in a home invasion robbery at her farm in Ecuador. 'My three granddaughters are physically unharmed, but the trauma is immeasurable. My son-in-law, Michael, was badly battered. 'Francescas birth father, John, whom shed been caring for, was stabbed multiple times. Both Michael and John are out of the hospital and are going to be okay, physically. 'They all endured horrendous trauma. Their Ecuadorian community is fully embracing them - taking care of them until they all fly home to the U.S. at the end of May. 'We are working with the U.S. consulate in Ecuador to help return Francescas body to the United States. Writing about her daughter, she wrote: 'Francesca was the light of our life. She was a devoted wife and mother of three beautiful daughters. She graduated from Poway High School and UCSD with a BA in Linguistics. 'She was fluent in French, Spanish and Lithuanian. She was a translator and an avid writer and illustrator who had published her first book, The Kings Magic. In the small town of Vilcabamba, Ecuador, Francescas family lived on a small farm they were building themselves, raising chickens, goats, horses, pigs, ducks and guinea fowl, working toward a goal of sustainable farming. - It was their humble Shangri-La. 'Her family will be returning to their home in Colorado. Francesca will be buried in the Riverside Cemetery in Kremmling, CO. 'She will be buried next to my sister Stephanie, Francescas biological mother who died in 2021, shortly after Mark, my late husband. 'Thank you for understanding the need to share my heart and my pain with you. We appreciate your support.' TikTok tearaway Mizzy has claimed 'toxic influencer' Andrew Tate has told him to 'respect other people's feelings' after he was busy trolling the law - again - last night after being released from prison. In videos posted on TikTok and Twitter the teenager, whose real name is Bacari-Bronze O'Garro, credited Tate's brother Tristan for reaching out to him and telling him to 'hold more accountability for my actions as I develop into a Man.' It followed O'Garro posting clips yesterday in which he celebrated outside HMP Thameside after being granted bail, following alleged breaches of the terms of a criminal behaviour order (CBO). Andrew and Tristan Tate are both under house arrest in Romania under suspicion of human trafficking, rape and organised crime. Leading charities have strongly criticised the brothers' conservative views on women's rights and 'toxic' masculinity. In a lengthy video and statement on social media on Wednesday, O'Garro lauded the suspected-human traffickers and said Tristan Tate 'reached out to me when the whole world was against me.' In videos posted on TikTok and Twitter the teenager, whose real name is Bacari-Bronze O'Garro, credited Tate's brother Tristan for reaching out to him Andrew (pictured) and his brother Tristan Tate are both under house arrest in Romania He said he was 'in talks with the Tate brothers', adding: 'I have the power now.' O'Garro, from Hackney, east London, previously appeared at Thames Magistrates' Court last Wednesday and admitted failing to comply with a community protection notice. This followed a series of vile 'pranks' on social media which included him stealing a pet dog, asking a stranger if he 'wanted to die' and jumping on a passer-by. He sparked outrage with his antics, culminating in him putting a family 'at risk' by barging into their home with others while their young children were present, pretending he was trying to find a study group. Judge Charlotte Crangle issued him with a two-year criminal behaviour order (CBO), including that he must not directly or indirectly post videos on social media without the documented consent of those featured in the content. On Wednesday he released a video alongside a lengthy statement on social media in which he admitted to having 'put my mind into Mizzy being the biggest menace in the UK'. He said: 'The Tate Brothers have been helping me immensely, teaching me to actually take people's feelings in and hold more accountability for my actions as I develop into a man. 'They are also showing me that I can accomplish what I want in ways that won't make me look like a villain and in the process also help others.' He added he had 'put my mind into Mizzy being the biggest menace in the UK', adding: 'It may not of been the best choice.' In a video alongside the statement, O'Garro said he was 'not a bad guy' and 'not all my pranks are bad'. 'Mizzy', 18, posted a new video last night 'celebrating' his release from custody He was handed a criminal behaviour order last week after a series of pranks that included bursting into people's homes and cars without permission Under the terms of his CBO, O'Garro is not allowed to post any videos containing other people without their express consent to feature in it He was granted bail yesterday by Thames Magistrates' Court after spending the Bank Holiday weekend behind bars at HMP Thameside over three alleged breaches of the CBO. He is facing a magistrates' court trial in July over accusations that he posted two further videos online without the consent of those featured and visited Westfield shopping centre in Stratford in breach of the order. In a video posted following his release from custody, O'Garro emerged from behind the HMP Thameside sign outside the prison, nodding and grinning as he clutched his possessions in a plastic bag. He yelled 'Yeah man!' as he celebrated his release from prison. To the sound of laughter from the friend filming, O'Garro boasted: 'We outside!' Pointing to the sign, O'Garro sipped from a bottle and grinned widely at the camera. He posted the video with the caption: 'The movement is real.' In a second video posted just over an hour later, O'Garro filmed himself in a car being driven by a friend, with a second person in the rear seat behind him. One of the friends makes a rude gesture at the camera as loud music plays. Alongside the post, O'Garro wrote: 'Everyone consented to be in the video', followed by two laughing emojis. He added: '#mizzyisback'. Under the terms of his CBO, O'Garro is not allowed to post any videos containing other people without their express consent to feature in it. He is also banned from certain places, including Westfield shopping centre in Stratford, east London. The teenager was charged by the Metropolitan Police on Saturday with three alleged breaches of his criminal behaviour order after being arrested a day earlier. Bacari-Bronze O'Garro was held at HMP Thameside during the bank holiday weekend over three alleged breaches of his CBO Rose Edwin, prosecuting, had told Thames Magistrates' Court at a previous hearing that two of the three alleged offences took place last Thursday, with O'Garro accused of posting a video on social media without the consent of the people featured. The court heard he also visited the Westfield Centre in Stratford. O'Garro allegedly visited Hackney last Friday, where he is accused of posting a video on social media without the consent of the people featured. He denied the charges when he appeared in court on Saturday, but was remanded in custody over the bank holiday weekend before his release yesterday. It is understood that he was remanded over the weekend after his mother refused to allow him back home. Speaking outside court yesterday, O'Garro claimed the breach of the CBO was not his fault. He said: 'I explained to the court that I didn't know the breach was on my terms because they didn't give me the map for the CBO around Westfield and stuff like that, so hopefully that gets bust. 'I need to alternate the conditions.' Since O'Garro's arrest, previous videos have come to light, including showing him lying on the top of a moving bus and entering a driver's compartment in a train in Stratford. Following a court appearance last Wednesday, he bragged about his antics in a TV interview with Piers Morgan, declaring: 'UK laws are weak.' On Wednesday O'Garro issued a statement on social media in which he revealed he was a father-of-one and apologised to a family after he walked into their house while their young children were at home. He tweeted: 'I made a very dumb stupid mistake. A house is supposed to be a safe space where you know you can relax without being in any sort of distress and me walking into that house was a very big violation to the homeowners. 'They had kids and I have a child myself so I know how protective people get over there children, if anybody came into my house on a weird flex and my child was there I don't even know what I would do but just know it wouldn't end well.' Several hours later, Tristan Tate appeared to confirm O'Garro's account that he had been speaking with the brothers. He wrote on Twitter: 'The reason [Mizzy] apologised is not because he "got caught" or for likes. 'After talking in depth I truly believe he has taken a turn in the right direction and recognises the error of his ways. A long way to go but Im hopeful.' The gas station owner charged with murdering a 14-year-old boy who he shot in the back on Sunday after accusing him of shoplifting previously shot another customer in his store but was never charged because it was deemed an act of self-defense. Rick Chow, 58, is in being held in custody for the murder of Cyrus Carmack-Belton. Cyrus entered his Shell gas station in Columbia, South Carolina, on Sunday to buy drinks but cops say Chow and his adult son wrongly accused him of shoplifting and then chased him out of the store and down an adjacent street. Cyrus was armed with a weapon but, according to police, never pointed it at either Chow or his son. In an interview with DailyMail.com, Sheriff Leon Lott, who is leading the case, said Chow admitted in his initial interviews that Cyrus never pointed the gun at him or threatened him. Rick Chow is being held in custody on a murder charge for shooting dead Cyrus Carmack-Belton. Chow previously shot another customer in his Shell gas station but he was never charged DailyMail.com can also reveal that Chow - who has been the victim of assault and vandalism in the store - also previously shot another customer. It's unclear what the details of that case are, but he was never arrested because it was deemed to be an act of self-defense. He has also been involved in violent fights in the store, but didn't face charges in those cases either. '[The store] has been victimized quite often with shoplifting. The owner has confronted shoplifters in the past and there have been physical altercations in the past. 'He has been assaulted in the past, and he has shot someone who attacked him but in that case it was self defense. 'In the other incidents, the use of force has been justified. This time, it was not,' Sheriff Lott said. According to the sheriff, Chow admitted in his statements that the boy never threatened him or pulled his gun on him. 'The young man was running away he didnt point the weapon at him at any point, he didnt threaten him. To use deadly force your life has to be in immediate danger. If hed have pulled the gun on them then yes, but he didnt. 'We are basing this on witnesses that were present and statements made by the man that we arrested. He has admitted [that the teenager didnt draw the weapon.] He gave us statements that night what had occurred, but after that he requested a lawyer. This is how the shooting unfolded on Sunday night at around 8pm in Columbia, South Carolina The Shell gas station in Columbia where the incident took place on Sunday night. It has now been vandalized Protesters trashed inside the store, knocking over displays The gas station was trashed on Monday night as the community learned of Cyrus' death Protesters descended on the store to spray it with graffiti and leave trash in the parking lot Chow is being held in custody pending bail. He is shown in court yesterday Chow remains in custody pending a bail hearing. He has not yet made any public remarks about the case. Before Sunday, his record only contained traffic violations. Cyrus' family have not commented publicly either, but his mother is said to be 'devastated'. Sheriff Lott's office is investigating why Cyrus was carrying a handgun, and how he obtained it. Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott told DailyMail.com: 'In the other incidents, the use of force has been justified. This time, it was not' 'It was illegal for him to have the gun but again him being shot in the back isnt justified by that. 'We are tracing to find out the origin of the gun came from. He is local. 'I dont know one way or the other [if they knew each other].' The shooting sparked fury in the local community, with a handful of protesters descending on the gas station to loot inventory and smash windows. The victim's family is appalled by it, according to the sheriff. 'Rioting is not acceptable. Damaging property is not acceptable. It distracts from what the issue is, thats the issue. 'When you hijack a peaceful protest and turn it into something thats criminal acts it doesnt do anybody any good, those that vandalized and stole, they are criminals. 'Its not what the family wants either. In an interview with DailyMail.com, Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford said Cyrus' grieving family, who have not yet spoken publicly about his death, were in shock. 'If you just lost your 14-year-old son, you'd be as upset as you'd expect them to be right now,' she said. Rutherford posted an emotional Instagram video on Monday as Chow was charged, choking back tears as she described how Cyrus could have been 'any of our son's'. She defended taking such a strong position on the case amid online criticism. 'I am not a robot. I may deal with death every day, but most people would have a reaction to a child dying. 'It's not about being impartial... there is no wrong or right way to do that.' A 54-year-old bus driver in Pennsylvania faces charges of unlawful restraint, false imprisonment, endangering the welfare of a child and assault, alleged to have used duct tape to restrain a 10-year-old with Down syndrome on a school bus in March. Juliet Pratt, of Clifton Heights, is accused of restraining an unnamed student on the bus she was driving on March 8. Video surveillance showed the student had been tied with duct tape around his ankles and chest, despite already being seated in the district-supplied safety harness. Upper Darby Police Department was dispatched to Hillcrest Elementary School in Drexel Hill following a report that a bus driver had assaulted a student. Upon arriving at the school, Pratt used a seat belt cutter to free the student from his bindings. Delaware County DA Jack Stollsteimer said: 'This is just an outrage. You cannot treat any child that way.' He warned: 'Had an accident occurred, this child would have been unable to free himself from the tape. There is simply no excuse for this conduct.' Juliet Pratt, 54, is accused of the multiple charges related to a case in Pennsylvania in March Delaware County DA Jack Stollsteimer, pictured here in 2019, said the case was 'an outrage' 'I'm not sure what was going through the driver's mind in that moment but whatever it was it was criminal,' Stollsteimer said. He wrote in a release: 'Bus drivers are entrusted with enormous responsibility every time they get behind the wheel. 'In addition to being safe drivers, we also expect them to treat the children in their care with dignity and respect.' Pratt allegedly admitted to duct-taping the student's ankles and the buckles of the harness, and that she had to use a seatbelt cutter to free the student upon arrival at school and threw the tape away. Pratt also told detectives that she had duct-taped the same student before. Pratt is represented by Art Donato, who said Tuesday he had argued at the preliminary hearing that the child's legs were not restrained, and he had only been taped to stop him injuring himself or others. Detectives said in their report that the child had not been trying to leave his seat or moving erratically before he was taped. Donato also said Tuesday that 'In retrospect, there might have been a better way to handle it, but not every time someone makes an error is it a crime.' Pratt was released after posting 10 per cent of her $25,000 of her bail. She is set for a formal arraignment at the country courthouse in Media on June 21. School District officials said that they were cooperating with the investigation. They told CBS News Philadelphia that Pratt was no longer driving buses. Illustrative image shows a school bus in Washington DC on October 20, 2022. Pratt faces charges for the false imprisonment of a child on a school bus in Pennsylvania in March The DA used a press release to also thank police for their efforts. He said: 'I want to thank Upper Darby Police Department Detective Kevin Knapp and Detective Sergeant Oliveri for their work on this case. 'I also want to thank the hundreds of bus drivers who operate vehicles all over Delaware County every single day without incident. 'As the son of a [Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority] bus driver, I know firsthand that it is a difficult job that rarely gets the recognition that it deserves, and we do not want this case to detract from the great job that they do in support of the children of this County.' A married female guard at Britain's 'cushiest' prison has been spared jail after engaging in 'sexually explicit' chats with an inmate - making her the eighteenth officer at the jail to have had an illicit relationship with a criminal. Roxanne Walker, 34, was spotted by colleagues giggling with 'manipulative' prisoner Daniel Carter at 250m HMP Berwyn in Wrexham, North Wales. She later confessed to police: 'I've made a mistake. I've fallen in love with Daniel Carter; it's completely wrong.' Walker, whose marriage has now broken down, received a nine months prison sentence, suspended for two years, in addition to 200 hours of unpaid work. It is the latest scandal at HMP Berwyn after prison staff Jennifer Gavan, 27, Ayshea Gunn, 27, and Emily Watson, 26, were all jailed within the last three years for sparking relationships with prisoners. A total of 18 guards have been fired for having illicit affairs at the prison, which opened in 2017 and has been dubbed 'Britain's cushiest jail' for its unconventional approach to incarceration, which includes referring to cells as 'rooms'. Roxanne Walker, 34, (pictured) will avoid prison after engaging in 'sexually explicit' chats with an inmate at HMP Berwyn in Wrexham, North Wales Walker admitted misconduct in a public office and cannabis possession. READ MORE - How 18 officers at HMP Berwyn have been fired for illicit affairs Advertisement Prosecutor Ryan Rothwell told Mold Crown Court how Walker, from Upton in Merseyside, began work as a prison officer in 2021. 'She undertook a ten week training course which included corruption prevention and conditioning,' he said. 'But between May and October 2021, several of her colleagues became concerned about her behaviour towards an inmate named Daniel Carter. 'On one occasion, she was seen on CCTV grasping and stroking his arm and ''giggling'', as well as talking closely with him.' Mr Rothwell said colleagues saw her 'sitting on a sofa with him, having an inappropriate discussion about a night out she'd been on.' And she told one of her fellow guards that Carter was 'her type'. In August, Walker was spoken to in a support meeting - and she said she was 'disappointed' that her colleagues had reported her. Emily Watson, left, was jailed for one year after she performed a sex act on inmate John McGee Ex prison officer Jennifer Gavan, left, was jailed for eight months after she smuggled a mobile phone into the prison for her lover Alex Coxon, right. She sent Coxon intimate messages and photographs over Snapchat She claimed it might 'have looked dodgy' to others but their relationship was 'just platonic.' The court heard the relationship continue despite other warnings and advice. In September, Carter's usage of the prison's phone system was investigated, and it emerged he'd added a female called 'Leanna Baker' to his list. He said: 'This was in fact Walker and it turned out that there had been numerous calls between them over a period of weeks, in which they talked about going away together and engaged in sexually explicit conversation.' Carter was moved to HMP Cardiff because of the investigation into the defendant - but 11 calls were made between the pair. Officers arrested Walker and searched her home, finding 'personal use' cannabis. Ayshea Gunn, 27, in handcuffs on her way to prison after being jailed for the illicit affair Previous scandals: Prison officer Ayshea Gunn, 27, (right) was also caught having an affair. She is pictured with inmate Khuram Razaq (left) in the cells of HMP Berwyn Andrew McInnes, defending, said: 'She knows how serious these matters are - and how an inappropriate relationship can undermine security. 'She has undoubtedly put herself in danger.' He explained Walker had recently been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and had been assessed as 'kind-hearted and caring but naive'. Mr McInnes continued: 'In her words, she'd fallen in love with Daniel Carter; a prisoner who has, it seems, a history of conditioning behaviour towards staff members. 'She realised she'd been manipulated. He told her what she wanted to hear. Her marriage was in difficulties and this was perhaps a vulnerable time in her life. 'She was a target and was indeed conditioned. The relationship, whilst serious, didn't progress physically.' Roxanne Walker, 34, was spotted by colleagues giggling with 'manipulative' criminal Daniel Walker at 250m HMP Berwyn in Wrexham, North Wales A total of 18 female guards at HMP Berwyn in Wrexham, North Wales, have been fired for having illicit affairs with inmates Judge Niclas Parry told her: 'There's a very good reason why, during your induction and training, significant emphasis was placed on the importance of having appropriate relationships with prisoners. 'The security of the prison, the safety of staff, prison discipline and the safety of other prisoners are all placed at risk when officers fall to be controlled by prisoners. 'You were fully aware of maintaining an appropriate distance, but selfishly, you went ahead and had such a relationship. 'You've lost your employment and your marriage has ended, all as a result of your misconduct. 'But to your credit, you have found alternative employment and there, you're highly regarded.' Judge Parry handed down a total sentence of nine months - but was persuaded to suspend it for two years due to two 'exceptional' features in the case. He ruled that her relationship had not resulted in any illegal items or assistance being given to the prisoner - and she is the single mother to a young dependent child. She must undertake 200 hours of unpaid work and 30 days of rehabilitation activity, as well as paying 128 by way of a victim surcharge. A cell at HMP Berwyn in a photo from 2017 - rooms all have a phone for outgoing calls Judge Parry told Walker: 'You are an intelligent young woman. You achieved particularly well during your pre-employment exam. You were fully aware of the importance of maintaining appropriate distance. 'What aggravates the matter is you were observed on numerous occasions to be acting inappropriately and on each occasion you were either given a warning to help you but then you were given a support meeting to further underline what had been emphasised during your training, but you continued. 'When the phones were examined the full extent of your relationship was revealed. You had provided this prisoner with a private number so he could contact you when you were not working. This continued even after the prisoner was moved to another establishment in South Wales. A Prison Service spokesman said: 'The overwhelming majority of Prison Service staff are hardworking and dedicated and we will not hesitate to punish those who break the rules. 'Over 500 members of staff at HMP Berwyn have undertaken corruption prevention training in the last 18 months and our enhanced security is protecting the prison against attempts to smuggle illicit items inside.' Rail union barons have been accused of 'cynically' conspiring to cause travel chaos this week by refusing to put the Government's latest pay offer to workers. Transport Secretary Mark Harper said train crews in England are being 'denied' the chance to have their say on pay, raising the prospect of walkouts dragging on for months. Mick Whelan, general secretary of Aslef, has refused to put the Government's 8 per cent offer to members and warned he was in it 'for the long haul'. Meanwhile, the RMT has snubbed a 9 per cent increase for its members working for 14 train operators covering most of England. Thousands of train drivers and crew in England walked out this morning - the tenth time since June last year - in the first of three strikes in four days. Mick Whelan ( pictured centre), general secretary of Aslef, joins union members on the picket line outside Newcastle station today Whelan (pictured in 2016) has refused to put the Government's 8 per cent offer to members and warned he was in it 'for the long haul' Aslef - which represents train drivers - is striking today and Saturday, while RMT - which represents thousands of train and rail workers - is striking on Friday. Aslef has also banned overtime work for 15 train operators tomorrow, which is expected to lead to some cancellations. Striking workers will form a picket line on Saturday, which will hit thousands of fans travelling to the Epsom Derby in Surrey and FA Cup final between Manchester United and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium in London. The strikes will also hit fans attending Beyonce's Renaissance World Tour concert at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and those travelling to watch the England versus Ireland test match at Lord's. READ MORE: Train strikes May and June 2023: Full list of dates, impact on London TfL and FA Cup final disruption London Waterloo, normally one of the busiest stations in the whole of the UK, was extremely quiet on the morning of Wednesday May 31 2023 due to the latest round of strikes by Aslef members Advertisement Analysis by the Mail estimates rail strikes have cost the sector around 900million since last June. Mr Harper urged union leaders to put the Government's latest offers to members as they are similar to the Network Rail offer, which was accepted by workers. He told the Mail: 'By targeting much-loved sporting events like the FA Cup final and the Derby, rail union leaders have cynically conspired to dampen many passengers' summer plans this week - but frustratingly, this disruption is avoidable. 'While Labour suggests otherwise, the Government has done our bit to try and resolve these disputes: meeting union leaders, listening to them before facilitating best and final pay offers. 'The dispute on Network Rail is now completely resolved after members overwhelmingly voted in favour of the pay offer I had facilitated, clearly recognising those offers were fair and reasonable. 'However, the well-paid union bosses at Aslef and the RMT continue to block similar offers from train operating companies being put to their members in a vote. 'That means the men and women working on our railway are not only being denied a say on a pay increase, but some are losing out on almost 1,800 of earnings. 'All because of strike action being forced on them by their leaders who claim to represent their best interests, but are more interested in playing politics.' But Mr Whelan snubbed the vote call and claimed that both sides had made 'zero' progress. Speaking from a picket line in Newcastle, he said: 'Nobody has come to the table with [an offer] that's viable. 'We set out our red lines and they keep producing deals with the red lines in them that they know are destined to fail. 'It seems to us that the Government and the employers don't want a resolution.' Mr Whelan also claimed it was a 'coincidence' that one of the union's strike days was the same as the FA Cup final, when asked if it was intentional to cause maximum damage. UK Commuters have been hit with further travel chaos as rail services across Britain have ground to a halt due to a fresh wave of strikes Aslef has snubbed an 8 per cent pay hike over two years, which would take the average drivers' salary from the current 60,000 to 65,000. There was hope that rail strikes could soon be over after a long-running dispute between the RMT and Network Rail was resolved in March, when workers accepted a 9 per cent offer. But separate disputes involving more than a dozen train firms remain outstanding. A spokesman for the Rail Delivery Group, which represents operators, said: 'We understand the impact of these strikes on individuals and businesses alike, and we can only apologise for this unnecessary and damaging disruption. 'While we are doing all we can to keep trains running, unfortunately there will be reduced train services between Wednesday, May 31 and Saturday, June 3, so our advice is to check before you travel. 'Passengers with advance tickets can be refunded fee-free if the train that the ticket is booked for is cancelled, delayed or rescheduled.' 10 supporters were detained by police at Parliament Square, London Just Stop Oil protesters including an 81-year-old Reverend have been arrested for failing to move out of the road in Parliament Square in their latest slow march. JSO said 10 supporters, which also included a 73-year-old retired cook and members of Christian Climate Action, were detained by police on Wednesday. They were among a larger group of 56 activists who were staging a slow march near the Houses of Parliament, following earlier protest action in west London when the A4 was blocked during rush hour. Video footage from Parliament Square shows police arresting activists as a round of applause is heard. One witness is heard saying 'thanks officer' but another was heard complaining 'you're hurting her'. Police confirmed that a number of arrests were made after protests at Parliament Square Just Stop Oil during their slow march in London's Parliament Square today JSO tweeted this afternoon: 'Ten Just Stop Oil supporters have been arrested at Parliament Square for peacefully marching in the road, demanding that the UK Government immediately halt all new oil and gas consents and licences. 'Amongst them were Reverend Sue Parfitt, an 81-year-old member of Christian Climate Action, and 73-year-old Ari Rox, a retired cook who has been wheelchair-dependant for 15 years.' JSO has held demonstrations every day since April 24, and has pledged to carry on indefinitely until the Government stops granting new licences for gas, coal and oil. Met Police earlier said: 'At 10.40hrs, the Met was on scene at Parliament Square where #JustStopOil #protesters are #slowmarching in the road. Officers are assessing the situation.' They added: 'At 11.16hrs, Section 12 conditions were issued to Just Stop Oil #protestors, #slowmarching in the road at Parliament Square. 'By 11.30hrs, they had moved off the road, and traffic was moving. A number of arrests were made.' MailOnline has contacted the Met Police for further comment. People were heard cheering in video footage from Parliament Square London Police can be seen leading protesters away Earlier dramatic footage shows the moment a police officer drags a Just Stop Oil protester out of the way as motorists blare their horns in frustration. Video which emerged from Barons Court, west London, shows a group of the eco-protesters blocking a road as people tried to get to work. A male police officer can be seen pushing numerous protesters out of the middle of the road - even dragging one of them by his high-vis vest across the ground. Meanwhile a horn is blaring incessantly at the JSO demonstrators, who refuse to move. In another clip, police are directing protesters to 'keep to the side' before one officer tells an activist: 'It's not your right, sir, you're obstructing a highway.' 'All these people are trying to get to work,' he adds. 'Trying to make a living.' A police officer dragging a protester out of the way by his high vis jacket in west London A policeman drags a Just Stop Oil activist after they stop traffic on Gloucester Road In other footage, a furious van driver shouted at protesters that he needed to get to hospital to see his son. Eventually protesters allow him past after he demands they 'get out of the way'. Met Police tweeted this morning: 'We are aware of #JustStopOil #protesters #slowmarching on Hammersmith Road; North End Road and Talgarth Road, W14. Officers are on scene assessing the situation. Updates to follow...' They added in a follow up tweet: 'We have dealt swiftly with Just Stop Oil #protestors in #Hammersmith. 'Section 12 conditions were imposed on those involved, and all #protestors have been moved out of the road.' Section 12 of the Public Order Act gives officers the power to prevent disorder and move protesters on. A Met Police spokesman told MailOnline: 'Officers were on scene 08.15hrs, Wednesday 31 May, policing Just Stop Oil protesters walking slowly in Talgarth Road, Hammersmith. 'A short time later, a protester was in a lane of oncoming traffic. Officers on the ground have to make quick time assessments based on unfolding events. 'Therefore the police officer quickly moved the protester out of the way to prevent them being harmed as they posed a danger to themselves and other road users.' A furious van driver told protesters he needed to get to the hospital Defiant Just Stop Oil protesters are seen along the A4, West Cromwell Road, near Barons Court A driver pleads with an activist from Just Stop Oil as they block a road A police officer pushes protesters out of the middle of the road The defiant protesters resist and remain in the middle of the road with their banners as one of their party is dragged away Another police officer seen speaking to the activists The group said it had caused 'chaos' by staging another of its slow marches along three roads near West Kensington Tube station on Wednesday, including the A4, with a total of 66 supporters taking to the roads at around 8am. Yesterday afternoon Just Stop Oil supporters took up positions on London's bridges, bringing traffic to a standstill during rush-hour. A mob of 68 Just Stop Oil climate activists took a stand around Waterloo, Blackfriars, London Bridge and Tower Bridge - but police were quick to move them off the road. Meanwhile, a band of children were seen trying to rip banners out of the hands of protesters on London Bridge. Protesters told the youngsters 'be careful you don't hurt anyone' as they jostled to take their banner off them. No arrests were made. Just Stop Oil enters its sixth week of marching every day in central London, as part of a bid to force the Government to halt all new licences for oil, gas and coal projects. Protesters continue their action bring traffic to a standstill Police say they have dealt swiftly with protesters in Hammersmith - pictured here is Gloucester Road As well as holding 'slow marches' on the streets of London, orange-clad eco-warriors have disrupted major events including the Chelsea Flower Show and Gallagher Premiership rugby union final at on Saturday. The Metropolitan Police has spent 3.5 million policing the protests in the month from April 24 alone, on top of 7.5 million spent by the force dealing with JSO action between October and December last year. Temporary assistant commissioner Matt Twist last week urged the public to wait for the police to deal with the demonstrations. He said: 'We absolutely understand why those who are caught up in traffic delays will be frustrated. 'I would urge the public not to intervene or take matters into their own hands, but to call the police, let us know where the incident is and we will get there quickly.' The time between officers arriving at each scene and imposing conditions to move protesters out of the road has been between 13 and 19 minutes for the recent marches, he added. A holiday maker who witnessed her paddleboarding boyfriend being struck by lightning and then led attempts to save him says she has been left devastated after he died soon after. Anna Vidamour, 24, was reportedly filming her partner Scott Seddon who was electrocuted on Monday afternoon while on his board in the sea in the Agia Agathi area of Rhodes. Ms Vidamour, from Belfast, is said to have started calling for help after a bolt of lightning struck him or the water close to where he was boarding. She and other beach goers helped to pull Scott from the water after he was struck. He was 'still alive' at the point he was hauled onto the shore, according to witnesses. But Scott passed away soon after when an ambulance and medics arrived to take him to Archangelos Health Centre. Ms Vidamour, understood to be a regular visitor to the Greek island with Scott, was stunned by the events, it is said. Scott Seddon (pictured) died after being struck by lightning while his girlfriend filmed him paddleboarding in Rhodes, Greece Anna Vidamour (pictured) was reportedly filming her partner Scott Seddon who was electrocuted on Monday afternoon in Rhodes, Greece Scott Seddon, who lived with his sister Layla and father Steve in a large bungalow in Liverpool, was described by close friends as a 'lovely guy' and 'really popular' Harikleia Petra, who operates a small convenient store in Rhodes, said: We saw her briefly after the tragic incident and she was devastated. Greek officials had earlier named the victim as 26-year-old Scott from Liverpool. One of those who helped Anna try to save Scott was a Brazilian. Wander Machado, 47, told Greek news outlet Rodiaki: 'I swam to get him out. But once I reached the board, I saw his body crouched over and face down on the board. His face had turned purple. 'I immediately knew that every second was crucial and started pulling him to the shore.' Machado added: 'I was worried that the same thing would happen to me as it was still raining but I didn't stop. 'The rescuers arrived shortly afterwards and performed all the resuscitation procedures to keep him alive. Unfortunately, I found out a little later that he didn't make it.' Mr Seddon, who lived with his sister Layla and father Steve in a large bungalow in Liverpool, was described by close friends as a 'lovely guy' and 'really popular'. The keen sportsman, who had trained to be a civil engineer and worked in the building trade, spoke Greek and was a regular visitor to the family's holiday home. Anna Vidamour (pictured), understood to be a regular visitor to the Greek island with Scott, was stunned by the events, it is said. Greek officials had earlier named the Brit as 26-year-old Scott Seddon who was electrocuted on Monday afternoon in the Agia Agathi area of Rhodes while his girlfriend was reportedly filming him out at sea Mr Seddon (pictured), who lived with his sister Layla and father Steve in a large bungalow in Liverpool, was described by close friends as a 'lovely and really popular guy' Beachgoers and emergency services desperately tried to save Mr Seddon's life (pictured surfing in July 2021) but they were unable to revive him Mr Seddon (pictured) passed away after an ambulance and medics arrived and was later taken to Archangelos Health Centre It is understood that other tourists had urged the man to leave the water when he encountered difficulties at around 1.30pm local time (11.30am BST). Pictured: Agia Agathi beach A family friend told MailOnline: 'I spoke to his dad and he told me Scott had been electrocuted. 'He said he was distraught. Steve couldn't say any more. He's heartbroken.' He added: 'His sister flew out there on Tuesday to be with the rest of the family. Scott was a lovely guy and really popular. 'He used to live in Greece with the family and spoke Greek. He loved it there but now they go and visit there holiday home there and live back here now.' An investigation by the Central Port Authority of Rhodes has been launched, according to Rodiaki. An FCDO spokesperson said: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Rhodes and are in contact with local authorities.' Dashcam footage has captured the moment a motorist came inches from death when a Russian missile crashed into the road beside their car in Ukraine's capital, Kyiv. The incident happened on Monday and came during a rare daytime attack on the city, with no injuries reported. In the video, the missile drops down onto the middle of the road, narrowly missing two white cars. It connects with an overhead wire displaying street signs and what appear to be traffic lights before it hits the road and explodes. Fragments from the electronic device and missile are blasted towards the camera, leaving it lightly stained. The incident happened on Monday and came during a rare daytime attack on the city, with no injuries reported A small section of the road can then be seen on fire with black smoke billowing into the sky as vehicles continue to pass as if nothing has happened. The way the missile falls suggests it was intercepted by air defences before it could reach its target, according to BBC News. The fragments were later collected by police for further investigation. The head of Ukraine's military intelligence has warned of a quick response to a series of missile strikes on Kyiv. General Kyrylo Budanov said Monday's attacks failed to intimidate people in the city, who just continued with daily life. Officials said all the missiles were shot down and there were no reports of casualties. In the video, the missile drops down onto the middle of the road, narrowly missing two white cars It connects with an overhead wire displaying street signs and what appear to be traffic lights before it hits the road and explodes. Fragments from the electronic device and missile are blasted towards the camera However, burning debris from the intercepted missiles came down in residential areas of central Kyiv. The attack on Monday followed two nights of heavy drone strikes, the latest in some 16 air attacks on Kyiv this month. It was unusual because it occurred during the day and seemed to be aimed at the city centre, whereas other strikes on the capital in May have been at night and directed at key infrastructure or air defences on the outskirts. General Budanov said he aimed to 'upset' Russia's supporters by letting them know people in the city were not phased by the attack and had continued working after it. Pictured: Police officers stand next to a part of a missile which landed on a street during a Russian strike in Kyiv, on May 29, 2023 'All those who tried to intimidate us, dreaming that it would have some effect, you will regret it very soon,' he added in a statement published by Ukraine's intelligence ministry. 'Our answer will not be long.' On Sunday, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the nation's air defence forces after the capital sustained the largest drone attack since the start of the invasion. 'You are heroes,' said Zelensky, after military commanders said most of the drones launched by Russia were intercepted. Starbucks insisted that there had been a 'resoundingly positive response' in tests Starbucks has announced that it is making a major change to the ice in its drinks - and it is causing a stir with customers. The coffee chain revealed that it would be switching from its classic, bigger ice cubes to 'nugget' or pellet ice, which is softer, more compressed and chewable. The company said it would be replacing the ice - which is the same type often found in hospitals or at fast food chain Sonic - over the next few years and would be starting with stores with a high volume of cold drinks orders. But coffee lovers have taken to social media to express their outrage at the change - with many fearing that the smaller cubes will melt more quickly and water down their favorite beverage. Others are accusing the company of attempting to save money by taking up more space with ice - meaning they do not have to fill up the cup with as much drink. Starbucks told DailyMail.com that the volume of ice per beverage will not change, and it has conducted testing to confirm nugget ice does not melt faster than its current ice. One TikTok user said backlash all started when an alleged Starbucks employee posted a photo of the nugget ice to Reddit The change comes just months after the coffee powerhouse faced controversy over rumors that it would charge customers extra for refusing ice in their drinks. According to She Finds, Starbucks has made the change as part of its pledge to cut its water footprint in half by 2030. Pebble ice machines use less water to make the ice, as the unique shape and texture of the nuggets (officially called 'Chewblets') is achieved using the Follet Nugget Ice Machine, the outlet reported. Ice drinks make up almost three quarters of all drinks sales at Starbucks, which has propelled the chain to record revenue in recent years, according to the Washington Post. 'Customers who have tried the nugget ice in our handcrafted iced beverages during testing had a resoundingly positive response,' the company said in a statement. However many Starbucks fans are not so sure - and have expressed their concern that the new nugget ice, which is also known as pebble ice, will change the texture of their favorite drink or dilute its flavor. TikTok user The Messenger said the backlash all started when an alleged Starbucks employee posted a photo of the nugget ice to Reddit - claiming to be from one of three stores testing the new ice. One user accused the company of scrimping on costs, writing: 'Sounds like they are wanting to take up more space In the cups with ice and lower the amount of actual drink to save money.' 'God no not the hospital ice for coffee,' said another. 'I love that ice but its terrible for coffee...melts fast and waters down the drink,' bemoaned another user. Another said: 'The recipes arent built for this type of ice, which will melt a lot faster and dilute the coffee and sweetness. The texture of the Frappuccinos will also probably be a lot different.' Fans fear that the smaller cubes will melt more quickly and water down their iced beverage Starbucks insisted the pebble cubes had a 'resoundingly positive response' in testing Starbucks confirmed that it would impose a $1 charge on all orders requesting no water in Refresher brand drinks (pictured) It comes after the internet was sent into a frenzy last month over widespread speculation that Starbucks was set to charge customers extra for requesting drinks with 'no water, no ice, or light ice.' The rumors caused a furor on social media - with customers outraged at the thought of unnecessary increased costs. A viral video showed an alleged Starbucks employee explaining that there was a new surcharge for customers who requested light ice or no ice, because it meant workers had to fill up the cup to the top. However the employee in the clip, which is not an official company video, appears to be explaining the added cost for requesting no water in the chains Refresher beverages, rather new fees on ice. A company spokesperson confirmed to AP News that from May 9, Starbucks would impose a $1 charge on all orders requesting no water in Refresher brand drinks as this requires adding extra ingredients to the mix. A Starbucks representative told DailyMail.com: 'Starbucks is not making changes to the ice policy.' The driver accused of hitting and killing the young boy has not been identified or charged Officials say the parking lot in the strip mall is a massively busy area Josiah Toleafoa was struck and killed Saturday night in a Chula Vista, California, parking lot while walking into Play City for his birthday A 3-year-old boy was tragically struck and killed Saturday night in a San Diego, California, area parking lot while he was walking into his birthday party. Josiah Toleafoa was hit by an unidentified 36-year-old driver on May 27 as he and his family were in the shopping area where locals say drivers often ignore traffic laws. The family was heading into the Play City indoor amusement park to celebrate. One witness who spoke with NBC4 not said the boy's mother sobbed hysterically as police and paramedics worked to save her child. 'It's heartbreaking, I have a kid myself, I have two kids and so I feel for those parents. and it's all the time,' said Theresa Arrocha, a local mom who was once in a hit-and-run in the same lot. Police have not charged the driver in the incident. Josiah Toleafoa, 3, was tragically struck was killed Saturday night in a San Diego, California, area parking lot while he was walking into his birthday party Josiah and his mom were heading into the Play City in Chula Vista, California, when he was hit Police markings are seen on the ground where Josiah was hit and killed as he went into his birthday party The shopping plaza is located in Eastlake, a neighborhood of Chula Vista, and often has kids running around due to its SkyZone, Speed Circuit and Play City. The mom, who once was in a hit-and-run in the same lot, said she has seen drivers acting 'crazy' first-hand and a total disregard for others' safety. 'Cars sometimes drive maybe over the speed limit with no intention of stopping. They look at you crazy, they just don't care,' Arrocha told CBS 8. On Monday, police-drawn lines in the parking lot were still visible and showed the exact scene where the collision happened. It's unclear whether Josiah had been crossing traffic or if he was behind a vehicle at the time that he was fatally struck. According to a GoFundMe started by Josiah's aunt Tatiana Toleafoa, he was rushed to Rady Children's Hospital after the incident, where he was pronounced dead. 'As his family, we mourn for the life he won't get to have and the heartbreak all those left behind will have to face,' the grieving aunt wrote. Tatiana confirmed in the fundraiser's description the family was there to celebrate and a post on Facebook suggests Saturday was Josiah's actual birthday. 'Happy Birthday to my firstborn nephew Josiah,' she wrote. '3 years old already.' 'It's heartbreaking, I have a kid myself, I have two kids and so I feel for those parents. and it's all the time,' said Theresa Arrocha, a local mom who was once in a hit-and-run in the same lot It's unclear whether Josiah had been crossing traffic or if he was behind a vehicle at the time that he was fatally struck A GoFundMe started to help cover Josiah's funeral expenses has raised over $20,000 In a TikTok video posted over the weekend, Tatiana shared heartbreaking photos of Josiah accompanied by a caption memorializing her nephew. 'My poor sweet nephew. I'm so sorry you are gone. I am so sorry you were short ticketed a life. I know you are with your grandpa dancing in the sky,' the aunt wrote. The GoFundMe started to help cover Josiah's funeral expenses has surpassed its $6,000 goal as of Wednesday morning, raising more than $20,000 for the family. 'I am overwhelmed with gratefulness for this amount of support given from everyone. No words can express the gratitude that our family is,' Tatiana wrote on Facebook. As Josiah's family copes with his death, other families now say they are increasing their own awareness when in the area. 'It's hard sometimes, it can be seconds where you turn around to put something in the car and they run,' one mom with her daughter told CBS 8. 'She's pretty active. I got to keep her by my side, holding her hand most of the time,' the worried mom continued. Chula Vista Police said the driver who struck Josiah did not appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the collision 'It's hard sometimes, it can be seconds where you turn around to put something in the car and they run,' one mom with her daughter told CBS 8 Chula Vista Police said the driver who struck Josiah did not appear to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the collision. It's currently unclear if charges will be brought against the driver in Josiah's death. DailyMail.com reached out to the Chula Vista Police Department for additional information on the incident but they did not respond in time for this report. The incident remains under investigation at this time. Three teens have been arrested after capturing a beloved mother swan and allegedly eating her on Memorial Day, leaving her four babies without a mother. The swan, Fay, and her four babies were kidnapped from Manlius swan pond in Manlius, New York, on Saturday. They were last seen by a village employee who was tending to flowers in the area, Manlius Village Mayor Paul Whorrall said. Eman Hussan, 18, of Syracuse was arrested in connection with Fays killing, along with a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old, Manlius police Sgt. Ken Hatter said. Fortunately, the family did not include the Swan's four babies, known as cygnets, as part of their meal. On Tuesday, Police said all four baby swans had been found, and are currently in the care of a biologist, who has raised Fay since 2007. Hussan and the other teens have been charged with felony counts of grand larceny and mischief, as well as misdemeanor counts of conspiracy and criminal trespass. Hussan can be seen smiling at reporters while handcuffed before being placed in the back of a police car Faye, the famous resident of Manlius' Swan Pond and mother of four baby swans, has been killed and eaten Hussan can be seen smiling at reporters while handcuffed, before being placed in the back of a police car today. In a press conference Wednesday morning, Manlius Police said the suspects hopped the fence in the middle of the night, captured Fay, held her down and killed her. The teens allegedly killed Fay at the pond and then brought her home to eat with family and friends. Despite consuming the swan, the family and friends of the suspect told police they did not know it was a swan but thought it was a very large duck, and also were not aware that it was a wild animal. The teens were not planning on eating the cygnets but told police they intended on raising them as pets. Tips received after a press release helped police find two of the babies at a business in Shop City Plaza in the Town of Salina. After obtaining search warrants, police found the two other located at a home in the city of Syracuse. Two of the suspects, one of which was an employee of Shop City Plaza, turned himself in. The two juveniles were released to their parents on appearance tickets and Hussan was taken to centralized arraignment to await his arraignment. Hussan was released and set to appear in court on June 15 at 6:30 p.m. The co-owner of Black Friday Bins at 139 Shop City Plaza said on Facebook Tuesday night that two of four stolen baby swans were in their store but the store thought the swans were ducks or geese. Three workers at the store were fired after it was discovered they brought in two of the four stolen baby swans to the store, according to Syracuse.com. Police said the teens 'didn't necessarily show remorse' but probably regret doing what they did. The teens apparently did not know that the swan was considered a mascot of the village. 'They did not have any idea of the significance the swans had on this community.' The police said Hussan had a hunting license. As of now, police have no knowledge of any prior illegal activity. The suspects were not lacking in food but hunting as an activity, police said. Eman Hussan, 18, of Syracuse was arrested in connection with the killing of the Manlius pond's swan Two juveniles, a 16-year-old from Syracuse and a 17-year-old from Syracuse, and 18-year-old Eman Hussan of Syracuse were arrested for killing and eating Fay, the town's swan The mayor said the biologist will take care of the cygnets for the next four weeks, because they are not ready to live on their own. Manny will be removed from the pond, the mayor said, as there is a chance he can become combative after losing his mate. The town's biologist will take care of Manny until they find another location for him. 'Since swans mate forever, losing Faye might make Manny become combative so he will be removed from the pond,' he said. 'The four cygnets will grow up and hopefully two will mate and go back to what it used to be.' Neighbors are mourning the loss of the iconic swan couple, known as the Manlius mascot, and placing memorials around the town. The lineage of swans have been around for over 100 years and were originally donated to the village along with the pond in 1905. The mayor said the town plans to continue the tradition of hosting swans. The cygnets and father swan will be removed from the pond following the death of mother swan Manny & Fay, the iconic swan couple have been Manlius mascots, capturing the hearts of the town and visitors of Manlius Pond Some residents are pushing to end the tradition and have signed a petition online to stop the practice of hosting swans, citing another incident in the past that caused the death of a swan. But the mayor said the swan is an emblem of the town and the majority of the town appreciates the beauty of them. Another petition, 'Justice For Faye', is circulating online and calling for the harshest penalties for the suspects. 'The highest charges possible need to be sought, whos to say they wouldnt do this to a human being if they did this to an innocent animal, that they had no right to go in take and then kill and eat,' it reads. To protect the swans and prevent such tragedies, the Mayor said he is installing cameras and coming up with a safety plan. The town plans to have 'eyes on the pond at all times,' he said. The investigation is ongoing and Manlius police are encouraging anyone with information or tips to call 315-682-8673. A California Thai restaurant falsely accused of selling dog meat after a woman took to social media to share a post of a dog tied up nearby has closed. Only open for six months, Fresno's Tasty Thai started to face unwarranted scrutiny less than two weeks ago - after Maria Alvarez Garcia published a series of posts to social media showing a pit bull tied up near the restaurant. Since-deleted, the photos and videos did not contain any claims concerning dog-meat themselves, but instead alleged animal abuse at a home directly next door - that is, until she realized the eatery's owners were Asian. At that point, the woman - whose social media is riddled with videos approaching tied-up or stray dogs she suspects are abused - posted a clip suggesting something shady was going on in the restaurant's kitchen, citing the dog as evidence. Within days, the posts - one of which reportedly showed Garcia confronting the owner of the health dog - spurred racially charged discourse amongst commenters, and eventually a hate crime investigation. Scroll down for video: Only open for six months, Tasty Thai is now closed - after facing racism because of several unfounded social media posts Since-deleted, the photos and videos did not contain any claims concerning dog-meat themselves, but instead alleged animal abuse at a home directly next door, with the only evidence being a tied up dog outside The saga started when Maria Alvarez Garcia (seen here) published a series of posts showing the pit bull tied up near the eatery. After finding out there was an Asian restaurant next door, she posted this clip suggesting something shady was going on in the restaurant's kitchen Carried out by the Fresno Police Department, the probe quickly found both the dog meat and abuse claims to be false. On Tuesday, owner David Rasavong - a longtime citizen of Fresno who operated the eatery with his two elderly parents - revealed he decided to close the restaurant for the safety of his fellow owners, who are 74 and 67, as well as his staff. Rasavong, a dog owner who was born in the US, said the eatery would likely relocate as it seeks to repair its tarnished reputation. 'Thank you to everyone who has reached out in support during this challenging time,' Rasavong wrote Tuesday, in statement announcing the restaurants closure. 'Your comments and messages have been the one bright light in this whole situation.' Days after posting a video that slammed the harassment he and his family faced as a result of Garcia's deleted videos as 'disgusting', the restaurateur laid bare what he said was a difficult decision. 'After much thought and consideration, we, as a family, have decided to close this location of Tasty Thai due to all the threats and harassment. Safety has and will always be our main priority.' Rasavong went on to map out what may be next for him and his family - as they try to pick up the pieces wrought by a bizarre saga that happened in a matter of days. 'As immigrants, it has always been my parents' dream to pass on the richness and traditions of our culture,' he told followers. 'They've always done that through food and service to the community. 'We are currently looking at a couple of options to re-locate to and open a new Tasty Thai in order to continue my parents' dream.' Now shuttered, the restaurant was set on the corner of First and Belmont Avenues. Prior to the controversy, reviews show that it was well-liked. Slamming the harassment his restaurant has faced as 'disgusting,' owner David Rasavong a longtime citizen of Fresno who operated the eatery with his two elderly parents - revealed he decided to close for the safety of his fellow owners, who are 74 and 67, as well as his staff Cops later revealed in a post to social media that the dog (seen here) had been from a happy and healthy home and was never abused 'Thank you to everyone who has reached out in support during this challenging time,' Rasavong wrote Tuesday, in statement announcing the restaurants closure. 'Your comments and messages have been the one bright light in this whole situation' Reviews that accused the eatery of killing and using dogs, meanwhile, for the most part have been deleted - but the damage remains. Aside from the barrage of hateful comments on review sites and Tasty Thai's own Facebook page, Rasavong said workers at his restaurant were threatened directly - which to him was the final straw as he attempted to brave the abuse. 'I had one lady before I could even get a word out, as I picked up the phone she said, "Go back to the country you came from, you dog-eating mother f-er."' Rasavong told The Sacramento Bee of how he and staff were inundated with phone calls. '[She] hung up on me,' Rasavong recalled, adding that he and his immigrant parents had even received death threats, which led them to call the police. 'We checked the voicemails and that's when we started hearing these death threats,' Rasavong, was born San Francisco and has lived in the Fresno area for the last 20 years, said. 'We were just like, "Wait, this is worse than we thought." He added that since moving to Fresno, he had never been on the receiving end of any racism - that is until the unfounded claims from Garcia. 'We have nothing to do with any of this, but were Asian and somehow we eat and serve dog?' the frustrated entrepreneur told The Bee on May 19, after temporarily shutting down the restaurant. 'Just because were an Asian restaurant? Thats disgusting.' The controversy spurring the store's sudden closure started just days ago, and resulted in a full-blown hate crime investigation Rasavong, a dog owner who was born in the US, said the eatery would likely relocate as it seeks to repair its tarnished reputation Meanwhile, the controversy spurring the store's sudden closure started just days ago, when middle-aged Garcia took to Facebook to post a video of her confronting the pit bull's owner, after she filmed the animal tied up and panting outside the restaurant's entrance. Photos from the deleted clip show the animal in front of full food bowl, tied up by its front paws with no water near where it was laying. In the video, Garcia erroneously claimed the dog was approaching heat stroke. Almost immediately, the post garnered widespread attention - but commenters did not dream up the dog-meat theory until a later video from the wannabe Good Samaritan. 'There is a restaurant, a little marketplace next to that house that is attached to that house,' Garcia says in a saved version of the deleted video, posted shortly after her dust-up with the dog's owner. 'So, I think something needs to be investigated because now, heartbreaking as it is.' she went on to theorize. 'It makes more sense that they are eating the meat and selling the meat.' In a later clip, she added: 'Some people reached out to me thinking that those people are eating the dogs. That kinda breaks my heart to consider that. I hope that were able to save this dog and all the dogs that end up in that house.' The wayward comments quickly triggered a storm of fringe, racist theories - and eventually culminated with the aforementioned death threats. The racist backlash would persist for weeks, even after the Fresno Police Department, aware of the attention the pit bull was getting online, released a statement revealing the dog was from a happy, healthy home. As a result of Garcia's series of posts, cops were called to a residence next to the eatery where the dog's owner resided. Police later confirmed in a statement amid the racist harassment: 'We are happy to report that the investigation revealed the dog is not abused' Despite the wannabe Good Samaritan's claims, the dog seen in the scrubbed footage is now safe and sound Since the announcement, racial abuse against Tasty Thai persisted - culminating in the closure announced Tuesday 'Recently, a short video depicting a female pit bull was uploaded to multiple social media accounts,' the department wrote in a statement to social media on May 16. 'The video alleged the pit bull was being abused,' it continued, before referencing the first video from Garcia. 'Fresno Police officers were quickly alerted to the situation and thoroughly investigated the incident. 'The short video posted on social media was a snapshot and did not show the complete and thorough picture of the incident.' Police then revealed: 'We are happy to report that the investigation revealed the dog is not abused. 'She recently had been purchased by a neighbor, but she has since been returned to her original owner. 'We would like to thank the community members that were concerned for the safety of the dog and reached out so that our officers could investigate the incident.' Since the announcement, racial abuse against Tasty Thai persisted - while Garcia seemingly deleted her Instagram as well as the slew of posts that created the controversy. DailyMail.com on Wednesday attempted to contact Garcia via phone and social media, but did not immediately receive a response. Police said the hate crime investigation pertaining to the death threats Rasavong and his family had received are still ongoing. Prince Harry could be denied re-entry to the US by any border official who was aware of his drug-taking admissions in his autobiography, legal experts have claimed. The border officials could grill him on the admissions if he failed to declare it on his visa application form. It means the Duke of Sussex could be stopped from returning to the US next month after his trip to London as he sues Mirror Group Newspapers over allegations of phone hacking. The revelations come after it emerged the US government will appear in a federal court next Tuesday to answer questions regarding Harry's visa application after he admitted taking cocaine, cannabis and magic mushrooms. Washington DC-based think tank The Heritage Foundation is suing Joe Biden's administration to force officials into releasing the Duke's immigration files. Prince Harry could be denied entry by any border guard who has read his admissions of drug taking in his autobiography, Spare, legal experts told DailyMail.com Prince Harry is pictured after a night out at the Cuckoo Club in London in August 2006 This is the section of the visa application that Prince Harry would have had to fill in order to get into the United States Raymond G. Lahoud, an immigration lawyer at Norris McLaughlin, told DailyMail.com that Harry could be barred from re-entering the US if he came up against the wrong border guard. A CBP officer would not be able to quiz Harry on his previous drug use if he had declared it at the time of his visa application, since a decision would already have been made to issue a waiver. It is not known whether Harry declared this. 'Every time he comes into the US he is supposed to go through Customs and Border Protection (CBP),' Mr Lahoud said. 'Any person would be asked those questions and would be turned away if there is a clear record of drug use [that has not previously been declared]. 'If I am a customs agent, I have the right to answer whatever questions I want. If he has violated any law with regard to drug use, that's grounds to be turned away, regardless of whether there was a conviction.' Mr Lahoud added that he thought it was unlikely to happen even if Harry had not declared his drug-taking because he was not a 'normal citizen' - and agreed with The Heritage Foundation's claim that he was 'getting special treatment because is Prince Harry'. The think tank is arguing that an explanation of how Harry got into the US - despite subsequent admissions of drug use - is in the public interest. It also wants to know how Harry answered questions about his drug use on his application. The case is set to be held in front of a federal judge on June 6 at 2.30pm at the US District Court for the District of Columbia. It comes after the think tank failed to make the application public using freedom of information laws in March. Mr Lahoud said the case 'could go either way', but added that he thought the privacy of immigration records would trump the public interest argument - and the files would not be released. He did say, however, that there is a risk that the publicity generated by the lawsuit would 'put a big mark' on Harry's immigration file that could make it more difficult for him to renew his visa. Mr Lahoud said if the Duke is found not to have declared his drug use on his visa application, it 'should be rescinded'. The Heritage Foundation published the legal complaint in the US earlier this month Prince Harry at the Ziegfeld Theatre in New York on May 16 for the Ms Foundation event In 'Spare' and the TV interviews that followed, Prince Harry admitted taking illegal drugs In Spare, Harry revealed that he first took cocaine on a shooting weekend at age 17. He did a 'few more lines' on other occasions. He also admitted to hallucinating during a celebrity-filled event in California and smoking cannabis after his first date with Meghan. And the duke spoke about his 'positive' experience of psychedelic drug ayahuasca, saying it 'brought me a sense of relaxation, release, comfort, a lightness that I managed to hold on to for a period of time'. Harry made the comments in an interview with therapist Dr Gabor Mate, an outspoken supporter of decriminalizing drugs who has allegedly used Amazonian plant ayahuasca to treat patients suffering from mental illness. Harry told him: '(Cocaine) didn't do anything for me, it was more a social thing and gave me a sense of belonging for sure, I think it probably also made me feel different to the way I was feeling, which was kind of the point. 'Marijuana is different, that actually really did help me.' It is not known what sort of visa Harry has, but it could be a temporary non-immigrant one called an O-1 for extraordinary ability, which would expire after five years. Under US law, non-citizens who admit to illegal drug use or have been convicted of drug offenses can be barred from the country. If they admit to this, a waiver would likely be required to gain entry, but this can be a difficult and lengthy process. This could involve undergoing a medical examination, including blood and urine tests, a chest X-ray and an interview to confirm whether the applicant was no longer taking drugs. Kaitlin Davies, of specialist immigration firm Davies Legal, said a waiver can 'take months' to be granted, but would unlikely be tested 'because the drug use admission does not appear to be recent use'. She also said Harry could run into difficulties at border control. 'Formal admissions of cocaine use, without exceptional circumstances, will likely prevent Harry from ever becoming a green card holder or US citizen,' she told DailyMail.com. 'While the admissions in his book would not be "formal", an interviewing officer could make them formal by questioning him, in a particular manner, on his claims of drug use.' The Heritage Foundation has said the case will be held in front of a US federal judge on June 6 Can drug users be banned from visiting the United States? US officials can stop foreigners who have committed drugs offences entering the country even if they have never been arrested and charged. Under US rules, suspected drug users applying for a visa may be required to answer additional medical history questions and also take a medical exam to prove that they are not still a drug abuser before being allowed to enter the country. In high-profile cases where celebrities who are known to have taken drugs want to come to America, they have been invited into the US embassy in London to take a drugs test. Musician Pete Doherty was famously banned from the US due to drug-related arrests. In 2014 TV cook Nigella Lawson was banned from flying to the US after she confessed to taking drugs. Advertisement Amy Winehouse was denied a US visa in 2008 due to her well-documented drug addiction, causing her to cancel plans to attend the Grammy awards. Kate Moss is also thought to have had US visa issues in the past after images of her snorting a white powder - thought to be cocaine - emerged in 2005. She did, however, go to the US in 2009 to attend the opening of a new Topshop store in New York. Nile Gardiner, director of the Margaret Thatcher Centre for Freedom at The Heritage Foundation, revealed details of the upcoming case on Monday. Speaking earlier this month, Mr Gardiner - a former senior aide to former prime minister Margaret Thatcher from 2000 to 2002, advising her on international policy issues - said the lawsuit was aiming to achieve 'transparency and accountability.' 'There is a very clear US public interest in ensuring Harry did not receive any favorable or preferential treatment by the immigration authorities,' he added. 'Any discrepancy between the details provided in his immigration application and the revelations of drug use in Spare would have serious implications for his legal status in the United States. 'Harry should welcome the release of his immigration application so the public can see what was put in the application.' DailyMail.com has contacted Harry's representatives for comment. Convicted killer Alex Murdaugh has pleaded not guilty to charges that he siphoned some $4 million from his dead housekeeper's life insurance settlement and defrauded his law partners and other clients for 16 years. Murdaugh, 54, entered the not guilty pleas to all 22 counts contained in a recent federal indictment during a hearing on Wednesday in the federal court house in Charleston, South Carolina. However, attorneys representing Murdaugh told Magistrate Judge Molly H. Cherry that they expect him to change his plea in the future, indicating a plea agreement is still in the works, according to WCSC-TV reporter Blair Sobol. Last week, Murdaugh's attorneys hinted at a plea deal, telling DailyMail.com that he is cooperating with prosecutors and saying they expected the case to be resolved swiftly and without trial. Murdaugh is already serving two life sentences in South Carolina state prison for murdering his wife and son, but it is possible that a conviction in the financial fraud case could mean a transfer to federal prison. Convicted killer Alex Murdaugh is due to appear in federal court on Wednesday The family's longtime housekeeper Gloria Satterfield died in February 2018 after appearing to suffer a fall on the stairs of the Murdaugh family home If convicted on all counts in the federal indictment, which includes charges of bank fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering, Murdaugh would face a total of up to 480 years in prison and fines of up to nearly $13 million. The disbarred attorney was convicted in March of murdering his 22-year-old son, Paul, and 52-year-old wife, Maggie. Prosecutors said he stole millions of dollars from clients and partners, and found himself teetering on the brink of financial disaster, which led him to fatally shoot his wife and son at their Colleton County hunting lodge. Last week, a close friend of Murdaugh admitted he helped his old college roommate steal more than $4 million meant for a wrongful death settlement after Murdaugh's housekeeper died in a fall. Cory Fleming, 54, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in federal court. He faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine when he is sentenced at a later date. Murdaugh's longtime housekeeper, Gloria Satterfield, died in February 2018 after appearing to suffer a fall on the stairs of the Murdaugh family home. After her death, Murdaugh convinced Satterfield's sons to hire Fleming as their lawyer, saying they could help get the family money for a wrongful death settlement. Fleming got $4.3 million from Murdaugh's insurers, according to an indictment. But Fleming and Murdaugh never sent any money to Satterfield's sons, instead splitting it among themselves, prosecutors said. Satterfield's sons later hired different attorneys who have managed to get millions for them. Prosecutors named banker Russell Laffitte (left), and Murdaugh's college buddy and suspended lawyer Cory Fleming (right) as co-conspirators in the alleged fraud schemes Prosecutors said Murdaugh stole millions of dollars from clients and partners, and found himself teetering on financial disaster, which led him to fatally shoot his wife and son Murdaugh was convicted in March of murdering his 22-year-old son, Paul, and 52-year-old wife, Maggie, seen together center. Surviving son Buster stands left Fleming's guilty plea came a day after federal prosecutors charged Murdaugh with 22 financial crimes, accusing him of stealing money from the Satterfield family as well as other clients and committing bank and wire fraud. The new indictment described three financial fraud schemes, including the one to siphon Satterfield's life insurance settlement. Another scheme outlined in the indictment describes how Murdaugh used his relationship with banker Russell Laffitte to siphon settlement funds from his personal injury clients from July 2011 until at least October 2021. Prosecutors say that Murdaugh directed law firm employees to make settlement checks payable to 'Palmetto State Bank' and delivered them to Laffite, who diverted the funds for Murdaugh's benefit. Murdaugh used the siphoned client funds to pay off personal loans and make cash withdrawals, while Laffitte collected over $350,000 in fees in the scheme, according to the indictment. In November 2022, Laffitte was convicted on six federal charges, including conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, bank fraud, and wire fraud for his role in this scheme. He is currently awaiting sentencing. The third scheme described in the indictment is a wide-ranging plot to defraud clients and partners over 16 years, from September 2005 until September 2021. Prosecutors say Murdaugh personally enriched himself using a variety of tricks, including concocting fraudulent 'expenses', intercepting insurance proceeds intended for clients, and collecting attorney's fees on fake or nonexistent annuities. From 2011 to 2021, Murdaugh made about $16 million as a lawyer, while stealing about $9 million from his law firm, clients and other sources, according to prior indictments. Murdaugh was convicted of murder in March following a month-long trial, during which he took the stand and tearfully protested his innocence. The case gripped the nation in part due to the Murdaugh family's prominent local standing as a legal dynasty. Murdaugh himself had worked as a part time prosecutor, and three generations of his family had served as 14th District Solicitor, the local equivalent of a district attorney. A jury of peers took only three hours to find him guilty of two murder counts, after prosecutors presented video evidence placing Murdaugh at the crime scene minutes before the shootings, and he admitted to lying about his alibi. Murdaugh was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole, and is currently incarcerated in protective custody at an undisclosed South Carolina prison. If convicted on the federal charges, it is possible that he could be transferred to a federal prison to serve out his sentence. This is the horrifying moment a teacher was attacked by a 13-year-old boy and left lying on the floor of a school corridor. The footage, taken last week at Taylor High School, Motherwell, Scotland, shows a teacher in his 60s lying on the floor of a school corridor after he was attacked by the pupil. In the video, the teacher can be seen surrounded by concerned colleagues as pupils watch on. The boy was arrested and charged in connection with the incident and a report has been submitted to the youth justice authorities, according to Police Scotland. It comes after three female staff at Johnstone High School, Renfrewshire, Scotland, were allegedly assaulted by a 16-year-old pupil and taken to hospital in May 13 this year. The footage, taken last week at Taylor High School, Motherwell, Scotland, shows a teacher in his 60s lying on the floor of a school corridor after he was attacked by the pupil The staff, aged 59, 48 and 34, were rushed to Royal Alexandra Hospital, Paisley, with a 14-year-old pupil also injured. And on May 18 this year, a primary school teacher was attacked by a pupil and was left with a life-changing disability. National officer for teaching union NASUWT Mike Corbett said: 'These kinds of incidents are simply unacceptable. Teachers should be able to attend their work without fear of being assaulted or abused and pupils should be able to come to school and feel that they are in a safe environment. 'The sooner we have the summit promised by the Cabinet Secretary for Education & Skills about violent incidents in Scotland's schools, the better.' Head Teacher of Taylor High School Paul McWatt said: 'We take all incidents of antisocial behaviour extremely seriously and will always apply appropriate measures to address any such issues within our school.' A Police Scotland spokesman added: 'We were made aware of an assault on a member of staff at a secondary school in Motherwell shortly after 3.10pm on Wednesday, 24 May. 'A 13-year-old boy was charged in connection with the incident and a report has been submitted to the youth justice authorities.' 'We are acutely aware of the disruptive effect anti-social behaviour has on the local community. 'Dedicated patrols are carried out in areas affected to provide reassurance and to engage with young people and discourage anti-social behaviour. 'Anyone who has concerns about anti-social behaviour in their area is encouraged to contact police by calling 101.' Rossi wanted in US accused of rape and is fighting extradition battle in Scotland A prison guard has been suspended for alleged religiously motivated abuse against US fugitive Nicolas Rossi after he converted to Judaism behind bars, a court has been told. Rossi, 35, is wanted in America accused of rape and his long-running extradition battle in the Scottish courts is entering its final phase. The fugitive has been held in HMP Edinburgh since his bail was revoked, and on Wednesday the city's sheriff court heard claims about his treatment there. His advocate Neil Shand told Sheriff Norman McFadyen that a number of incidents are said to have taken place inside the jail, including 'chanting and name calling' directed towards Rossi. During a 53-minute preliminary extradition hearing, Mr Shand told the court a prison guard has been suspended for calling Rossi 'a name relating to his religious practice', which was described as a 'religious slur'. A prison guard has been suspended for alleged religiously motivated abuse against US fugitive Nicolas Rossi, a court has been told. Pictured: Nicholas Rossi leaving Edinburgh Sheriff And Justice Of The Peace Court in Edinburgh following an evidential hearing in February Rossi, 35, is wanted in America accused of rape and his long-running extradition battle in the Scottish courts is entering its final phase Rossi has said he has converted to Judaism behind bars, previously describing himself as 'Anglo-Catholic'. Mr Shand said Rossi had made a complaint about three prison staff over an incident which was alleged to have occurred last week. He said another inmate had said Rossi has been the victim of abuse from 'prisoners and from prison staff'. Rossi, whose wife Miranda Knight attended the court to listen to proceedings, was expected to appear by video link but did not attend. Mr Shand said: 'The information passed from the prison is that he declined to make himself available and go to the room which the video link takes place. 'On previous occasions there have been differing accounts from Mr Knight and staff at the prison as to what went on or didn't.' Mr Shand told the court he would not comment any further, and that the hearing could take place in his client's absence. Rossi had applied for an electronic monitoring assessment, but this was declined by Sheriff McFadyen. During the application for the assessment, as well as his treatment in prison, the court was also told of wheelchair user Rossi's failing mental and physical health, with Mr Shand saying his client's blood oxygen levels were below 90%. At the previous hearing in the case, the court set deadlines for all expert reports to be submitted. But the psychiatric report, prepared by Psychology Direct, is still to be submitted. Mr Shand told the court the firm passed on its apologies but it is in the final stages of being prepared. A deadline has been set for next week for it to be sent. Prosecutor Colin Edward said there are now 'very tight time-scales', with just weeks left until Rossi's full extradition hearing is scheduled to begin on June 26. Rossi (pictured in July last year) has claimed this is a case of false identity and said he is an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight Rossi has claimed to be the victim of mistaken identity and that he is an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight. A sheriff ruled in November that he is Rossi. It is alleged that Rossi faked his own death in 2020 and fled to the UK to evade prosecution for rape. He was arrested in December 2021 in Glasgow after becoming seriously unwell from Covid. A Scottish Prison Service spokesman said: 'An allegation has been made and is currently under investigation. It would therefore be inappropriate to comment further. 'We expect the highest standards of behaviour from all our staff, and where they fall short we have procedures in place to deal with this. 'All individuals in our care have the same right to legal representation and we have procedures in place to facilitate this.' Ron DeSantis failed to earn a bump in polling after wading into the waters of the 2024 Republican presidential primary last week and is still trailing Donald Trump by 38 percent. A new Morning Consult poll taken after DeSantis officially entered the race last Wednesday shows that the Florida Governor only increased his standing by 1 percent post-announcement. Although still in second place among 2024 Republican primary candidates, DeSantis has 22 percent compared to former President Trump's 56 percent support. No other candidates earned double-digit support from primary voters. DeSantis started the year with some leads over Trump, but some pollsters claim his reluctance to announce, and keeping one-foot in the race and one-foot out, hurt him in the polls. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, while in second place, is still a whopping 34% behind former President Donald Trump in primary polling. Pictured: DeSantis is in Iowa this week for his first official campaign swing A new Morning Consult poll taken after DeSantis' announcement last week shows the former president with 56% to DeSantis' 22 percent support The Florida governor still performs strongest amongst those who describe themselves as conservatives and suburbanites earning 25 percent support among both demographics, but still behind Trump. At the start of 2023, DeSantis was leading Trump among white, college-educated Republican voters, but the ex-president has now taken a 17-point lead. The Morning Consult survey taken May 26-28, 2023 among 3,485 potential GOP primary voters shows longshot candidate Vivek Ramaswamy and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley tied for third place. In fourth is South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, followed by former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson. All other potential candidates come in with a combined 10 percent. Many are expected to enter the race in coming weeks including former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu and former Vice President Mike Pence. The Florida governor has lost ground in recent months and doesn't seem to be getting the post-announcement bump that usually is expected Despite coming in second to Trump, DeSantis is still viewed widely favorably among voters with Monmouth national poll this week showing 73 percent have a good view of the Florida governor. Meanwhile, 77 percent of that same voting bloc have a favorable view of Trump. From the same poll taken in previous months, Trump's favorability has risen from February, while DeSantis' has fallen. Following his announcement, DeSantis on Tuesday kicked-off his first official campaign swing through early primary states of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina. The Florida governor and his wife Casey DeSantis arrived at Port Neal Welding Co. in Sioux City, Iowa Wednesday morning to tout DeSantis' blue collar roots and his decision to join the Navy after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. It came after his first campaign event in Des Moines the night before. Right behind DeSantis, Trump will also visit Iowa Wednesday and Thursday and the two compete for voters in the deep-red early caucus state. The man accused of murdering Cash App founder Bob Lee is 'excited' for his new, high profile lawyers to get to work, the defense team tells DailyMail.com. Nima Momeni is accused of stabbing Lee to death in April after grilling him over his relationship with his married sister, Khazar. Since his arrest, he has been represented by Paula Canny, a San Francisco lawyer who had asked the judge for more time to prepare her defense. Yesterday, however, Canny submitted a request to withdraw from the case. It later emerged that she'd been replaced by Saam Zangeneh and Bradford Cohen. In an interview with DailyMail.com, Zangeneh said on Wednesday they have not yet reviewed the evidence in the case or begun working on their defense - but that Momeni is 'excited' to have them on board. Nima Momeni is accused of stabbing Lee to death in April after grilling him over his relationship with his married sister, Khazar Cash App founder Bob Lee was stabbed to death in April. Khazar Momeni, Momeni's sister, shared a close friendship with him 'I've had conversations with him but not about the case, just about whether he feels comfortable with me and asking the normal types of questions about a practice that you would. 'He's excited for us to get to work,' he said. In: Saam Zangeneh has been retained to defend Momeni Zangeneh previously defended Derek Medina, a Florida man who became known as the 'Facebook killer' after murdering his wife and posting a photo of her corpse on the social media site in 2013, and Sigfredo Garcia, one of the hitmen involved in the 2014 murder of FSU Professor Daniel Markel. Both Medina and Garcia were sentenced to life in prison. Zangeneh did not reveal the conflict of interest that prompted Momeni and his family to ditch Canny and seek him out. He said he was contacted by an associate of Momeni's last week. Canny had been pushing for a delay to allow herself more time to prepare for trial. Momeni wanted to fast-track the case. He is yet to offer any public statement on the charges against him. Police they have surveillance footage that lays out how Momeni lured Lee, a prominent, well-known Silicon Valley entrepreneur, into his car and then down a dark side street in San Francisco before stabbing him to death. Prosecutors say he was furious about his sister's friendship with Lee. Text messages revealed a close friendship between the pair, and some of Lee's friends believed they might have been in a romantic relationship. Out: Defense attorney Paula Canny yelled 'you'll miss me!' as Momeni was led out of the courtroom yesterday Khazar is married to a local plastic surgeon. He attended an early court hearing for his brother-in-law, arriving at court side-by-side with his glamorous wife, but he has not been seen at any subsequent court dates. Momeni was arrested at the loft where he was living and claiming to run his own tech start-up. A tycoon neighbour of Vladimir Putin has come under fire for complaining about drone explosions targeting the warmongering dictator. Famous Russian multimillionaire Viktor Bondarenko, 73, protested on Instagram: 'Loud explosions woke us up at 6.30am.' He lives close to Putin on Russia's Billionaire's Row with his glamorous spouse, and whined: 'My wife suggested we move to the basement but what if something hit us? 'I wouldn't want to be buried in a basement. 'The good thing is the kids are in Milan.' A tycoon neighbour of Vladimir Putin, Russian multimillionaire Viktor Bondarenko (second right with his family), 73, has come under fire for complaining about drone explosions targeting the warmongering dictator Footage purportedly shows a suspected Ukrainian drone explode with a mushroom cloud (pictured) near Usovo village, which is close to Vladimir Putin's official residence The mogul's glamorous wife Nataliya runs a Milan fashion house but the couple appeared nonplussed that their comfortable life should be interrupted by Putin's war. READ MORE: Moment Wagner chief EXPLODES with fury at Putin's minions over Moscow drone attacks Advertisement A spate of suspected Ukrainian drone attacks are believed to have been aimed at 70-year-old Putin's palace Novo-Ogaryovo, his official residence in Moscow region, and other addresses of the Russian elite. It was the first time Moscow had been targeted so directly in a war unleashed by Putin 15 months ago. Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov admitted that - like Bonadarnko - the despot was woken unusually early. 'The working day started very early for the president,' said Peskov, without admitting the cause. Putin is famously a late sleeper. 'He was receiving live information from the defence ministry, from the relevant agencies, information from the mayor of Moscow, the governor of the Moscow region, the Emergency Situations Ministry. 'They worked well. The air defence system also worked well.' Putin has bombarded Ukraine for well over a year but until now explosions have not impacted on Moscow's so-called Golden Mile. But Russians had little sympathy for Bondarenko - born in Soviet Ukraine - whose children and grandchildren in Italy were safe from mobilisation and drone strikes. A furious Val posted: 'Children in Milan? What about other children who are in Moscow?' Another commenter raged: 'Did this grandfather go completely off the rails? 'What a disgusting nightmare. Let him also go to Milan. Old ba*****.' Alena complained: 'How out of touch with reality do you have to be to say this publicly? 'At least be ashamed 'Other people's children sit in the trenches and protect the country from collapse, paid for by those who are in power in Milan, London, and Washington.' A spate of suspected Ukrainian drone attacks are believed to have been aimed at 70-year-old Putin's palace Novo-Ogaryovo, his official residence in Moscow region, and other addresses of the Russian elite Moscow was hit in a suspected Ukrainian kamikaze drone raid just hours after Vladimir Putin unleashed a volley of similar attacks on the the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv. Pictured: An air defence system is launched in Moscow (right) after a series of drones were launched at the city (left) An apartment building bearing blast marks from a explosive drone launched into Moscow on Tuesday morning Bondarenko famously set up the Soviet Union's first glossy magazine. He is an icon collector but he also warned ten years ago about the rising tide of extremism and hatred under Putin. He set up a political party campaigning against religious and ethnic extremism in Russia - but it got nowhere. Earlier he was linked to a Kremlin corruption scandal in the pre-Putin era. His wife is a graduate of the Florence Design Academy. She heads Milan-based Rubeus fashion brand. The company's website explains: 'Nataliya is an avid art collector a passion she shares with her husband. 'Her creativity, paired with her love of Italian culture and in-depth knowledge of art and design, shapes her vision of Rubeus as a collection of objets d'art of her own creation.' San Francisco is pumping millions of dollars into a tourism campaign that it hopes will revitalize its pre-pandemic travel appeal The city of San Francisco has launched its biggest ad campaign to lure tourists and business travelers to the city that has been suffering from an intense and unending homelessness, drug addiction, and crime crisis. The campaign, called 'Always San Francisco' cost a whopping $6million and is being spearheaded by the city's tourism bureau. It includes, among other things, the city's first television commercial, a music video of sorts that seeks to highlight the quirkiness and diversity of the city. The campaign comes as San Francisco has been hampered by public drug use and high-profile crimes amid calls for politicians to do more to clean up the California city. The 'Always San Francisco' video showcases the quirky characters who live in San Francisco - including Lady Camden, a drag queen made famous on RuPaul's Drag Race The campaign comes as San Francisco deals with widespread crime, homeless and drug use that has driven away companies and consumers The ad is set to a new version of the song 'San Francisco,' originally made famous by Jody Garland and will be rolled out across multiple markets that include New York, Chicago, Boston, Washington, DC, and Houston. The minute-long musical ad features an array of local talent, including Lady Camden, a drag queen who became popular on 'RuPaul's Drag Race,' and local muralist Sirron Norris. A digital ad campaign will also hit international markets. The effort is being funded by a city grant, a grant from the state tourism bureau and San Francisco Travel. Since the country transitioned out of its COVID-induced fear of traveling, San Francisco has not been able to hit its pre-pandemic level of visitors. In 2019, the city welcomed 26.2million visitors, according to the SF Travel Association. That number bottomed out in 2020 due to the pandemic but hit just 21.9million in 2022. In 2022, a number of major conferences and events, including the Outside Lands musical festival, returned in full force to the city, leading to a $7.4billion in spending - more than twice the 2021 figure. However, a significant handful of high-profile criminal episodes, in addition to a number of retail closures prompted by rampant and unprosecuted theft, have tarnished the city's image to potential visitors. According to one analysis, San Francisco is suffering from the slowest downtown recovery of any of the 62 largest cities in the US and Canada post-pandemic. Traveler numbers remain down in San Francisco have not return to its pre-pandemic figures Some major conference organizers have said that they will no longer opt to host their events in the city due specifically to the homelessness A homeless man is seen on the streets of SF as public officials grapple with how to solve the city's seemingly unending problems Making that recovery even slower are the stores that have announced they are ditching downtown SF. Nordstrom, Whole Foods, Saks Off 5th, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, Old Navy and Office Depot have all made the decision to abandon their downtown locations. Even prior to the pandemic, organizers were beginning to make different decisions about where to hold their conferences. In 2018, a major medical-industry conference said they would convene elsewhere due to the city's homelessness issue. SF is anticipating 23.9million visitors in 2023, who will spend a total of $8.7billion. The record high for the spending figure came in 2019 and totaled $9.6billion. But that figure could be lower given the issues the city faces and without much progress in cleaning up the streets. The new San Francisco campaign cost the city and various state funds and backers $6million The campaign comes amid the city's ongoing struggle with a severe crime and homelessness crisis Public policy in San Francisco has continually allowed for a skyrocketing homeless, drug addicted and mentally unstable population to run the streets of the city. The city is also facing a spiraling violent crime problem. Tech exec Bob Lee became one of the city's latest murder victims last month. Lee, 43, was allegedly murdered by another tech executive on April 4 while visiting San Francisco from Miami, where he moved last year with his family. A coroner's report reveals in graphic detail how Lee was found slumped outside an apartment block with no pulse before paramedics rushed him to hospital, where knife wounds were found on his heart and a lung. He died with ketamine, cocaine and alcohol in his system. In another criminal episode, Don Carmignani, 53, an ex-fire chief, is facing charges for using pepper spray on a homeless man who proceeded to brutally attack him with a metal crowbar. Carmignani suffered a fractured skull and jaw. Prosecutors are able to charge him because he used pepper spray on the vagrant thereby instigating the attack, but the city's District Attorney has opted not to prosecute the homeless man because he was acting in 'self-defense.' The number of homeless people in San Francisco was tallied in February of last year at almost 8,000, the second highest figure of any year since 2005, according to the official government count which takes place every three years. Cash App founder Bob Lee died of stab wounds while outside an apartment building in San Francisco Former fire chief Don Carmignani suffered a fractured skull and jaw in the attack, and required 51 stitches after Garrett Doty, 24, allegedly beat him over the head with a crowbar Various liberal politicians and city leaders have attempted to implement numerous policies to curb the many issues that have arisen due to the swelling homeless and drug-addicted population. One specific harm reduction policy that failed was the opening of the Tenderloin Center last year that was meant to help alleviate the city's drug and homelessness crisis. It cost taxpayers a whopping $22million and was meant to be a 'safe place' for addicts to 'get high without getting robbed' and without fear of fatally overdosing. Users were also meant to be directed to help centers, though during its first four months of operations, it referred just 18 people of the more than 23,000 who were welcomed to the site. Overall, less than one percent of visits ended in a 'completed linkage' to behavioral health programs. Despite their efforts, 2022 saw upward of 500 people die from overdoses in San Francisco. In 2021, that figure was 641. Many of those living on the streets battle serious illnesses often exacerbated by substance use. The terrifying moment a shark circled around a man and a child swimming in an Alabama beach was caught on shocking video. The shark was spotted swimming just meters away from beachgoers on Monday on the Gulf Coast's Orange Beach, about 53 miles from Mobile. Footage of the encounter shows the shark swimming around a man and a child in the water in the shallow water, being just inches away from them at one point. The shark is seen following the pair as they go deeper into the water, eventually swimming out to sea. Jackson Silvio, 15, captured the rare moment as he was using a drone to monitor the shark activity in the Gulf of Mexico Video taken with a drone shows a shark circling around a man and a boy in Alabama The shark was spotted Monday on the Gulf Coast's Orange Beach, about 53 miles from Mobile The shark's breed remains unclear, but the most common species in the Gulf is the Atlantic sharpnose, which grows up to three and a half feet. The Gulf is home to 50 species of sharks with about 20 to 30 species that beachgoers and fishermen can encounter, according to Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, Last month, beachgoers watched a massive 14-foot shark wash ashore on Orange Beach. 'Once it got maybe 30 yards in, we kind of used the force of the water to pull it up to the beach, and from there, called coastal resources,' beachgoer Rick Johnson told the local CBS affiliate. Coastal resources then took the shark to a lab to determine how it died as well as its breed. The shark turned out to be a Great Hammerhead that was pregnant with 40 pups. However, the shar's cause of death remains unknown, according to officials. Sharks migrate in the region from April to November, with sightings most common in June. And it has already been an active season for sharks. Eelier this month, a woman had her foot bitten off by a shark while snorkeling in Turks and Caicos - and it could not be reattached because an emergency aircraft took six hours to arrive. The 22-year-old, from Connecticut, was celebrating her graduation from Yale University with her friend on the island when the horror attack happened. The shark in the Gulf Coast was swimming feet away from a man and a boy at one point The shark eventually keeps swimming deeper into the sea, away from the beachgoers Meanwhile, a ten-foot-three great white shark was spotted lurking in the waters off Jersey Shore on Memorial Day. The juvenile shark, named Penny, was first tabbed on April 23 - but she was spotted again on May 29, just before 7am right near the beach where holidaymakers are set to flock to. The fish, which weighs a mammoth 522lbs, was spotted near Ocean City, swimming unnervingly close to the buoy line on Monday morning. Penny is the 92nd white shark tagged in the Western North Atlantic by researchers - and is a sizeable animal considering she is still classed as a young shark. The sighting came after a teenage girl was attacked by a shark while surfing off the coast of New Jersey. Maggie Drozdowski was surfing near 110th Street beach in Stone Harbor when a shark latched on to her foot and dragged her underwater. She managed to shake it off and survived the potentially fatal mauling. Where am I going to send my girls for college? Heck, are they even going to go? Higher education has always been seen as the gateway to a bright future in America. But increasingly, millions are deciding it's just not worth the cost. After all, who in their right mind would willingly subject themselves or their loved ones to hateful, irrational, woke indoctrination? It's Free Market Capitalism 101! Between 2012-2019 the number of students enrolled in a U.S. university dropped from 20.5 million students to 18.2 million. The COVID pandemic only accelerated the decline, but since then enrollments haven't bounced back. In fact, they've continued to tumble down. When the times comes, my two children may be among those choosing a job over a major. My youngest isn't even out of diapers yet, but I don't think that this so absurd. It's an idea that many parents wrestle with as they stress over schools, tests, extra-curriculum activities and stashing away money to be spent on dorm rooms, books, and tuition. The way things are going in academia today college is the last place I would pay for my kids to attend. The vile, unhinged commencement address at The City University of New York's law school is just the latest example of what passes for acceptable rhetoric in our modern academic cesspools. Keynote speaker Fatima Mousa Mohammed stepped to the podium on May 12th and spewed the typical, far-left gibberish, but with her own antisemitic flair. The Yemeni-born and Queens, New York-raised woman smeared the NYPD as 'fascist' and called for a 'revolution' to challenge 'oppressive' institutions, like the military, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the prison system. According to her an aspiring lawyer no less the law is a 'manifestation of white supremacy' and, to top it all off, she indulged in all the greatest hits of antisemitic tropes. The Yemeni-born and Queens, New York-raised woman (above, right) smeared the NYPD as 'fascist' and called for a 'revolution' to challenge 'oppressive' institutions, like the military, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the prison system. She alleged 'donors' and 'investors' were secretly manipulating the school system, accused Israel of 'indiscriminate' murder, and encouraged her fellow graduates to 'fight against capitalism, racism, imperialism and Zionism around the world,' as if all those 'isms' belong in the same sentence. Mohammad is certainly entitled to her opinion, but her school is not expected to endorse it, especially since this is a taxpayer-funded institution. Though there was the Law School Dean, Sudha Setty, applauding along with all the others throwing their support behind Mohammed -- a well-known activist with antisemitic leanings. Clips have since emerged showing Mohammed telling a Midtown Manhattan crowd last year to demand that 'Zionist professors [and] students' be excluded from campuses. Ask yourself: Would someone who called for pro-Palestinian teachers and students to be kicked off campus ever be given a speaking slot at any university commencement? Of course, they wouldn't. Only one type of hate is accepted. Parents and students are watching and they're seeing this play out again and again. The woke cowards running these educational institutions see themselves as advocates for misguided students. Remember what happened at Stanford Law School back in March. The school's associate dean for diversity, equity and inclusion rushed into a melee as a mob of deranged students berated a federal judge, who had been invited by a conservative group to speak on campus. But instead of scolding the crazed audience she joined them, infamously asking the judge if his right to free speech was worth the harm that his words were causing these snowflakes. And this at one of the premier law schools in the country! Though there was the Law School Dean, Sudha Setty, (above) applauding along with all the others throwing their support behind Mohammed -- a well-known activist with antisemitic leanings. The school's associate dean for diversity, equity and inclusion (above, left) rushed into a melee as a mob of deranged students berated a federal judge, who had been invited by a conservative group to speak on campus. Here's what I know no child of mine will ever attend a university that promotes anti-American, anti-free speech, anti-capitalist garbage and antisemitic hate speech. Never. Ever. Over. My. Dead. Body. But this is now the real price of a college education. My alma mater Columbia University was recently ranked the worst college for free speech by The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) after they surveyed 45,000 students from more than 200 campuses. I thrived at Columbia. It was a privilege to receive an education at such an incredible institution in the heart of New York City. I did not feel that my opinion was stifled. I was not targeted for being an outspoken Republican. But my children wouldn't have that same experience today -- it breaks my heart. The inmates are running the asylums and there's seemingly nowhere to turn. In May, a CUNY professor was filmed destroying the display of pro-life students. But she wasn't fired until she held a machete to the throat of journalist and threatened to 'chop him up into little pieces' after he showed up at her apartment to ask questions. The University of Colorado Boulder's website now states that misgendering people can be considered an act of violence. In May, a CUNY professor (above, left) was filmed destroying the display of pro-life students. But she wasn't fired until she held a machete to the throat of journalist and threatened to 'chop him up into little pieces' after he showed up at her apartment to ask questions. The University of Connecticut will reportedly soon require students to pass an 'Anti-Black Racism' course in order to graduate. 'Intro to antisemitism' is not yet a prerequisite. I wish this were all a joke, but it is not. Professors and administrators no longer strive to teach students how to think, but what to think. And thankfully, American's aren't buying what they're selling. Bucking the trend of declining four-year college enrollments, two-year community colleges are roaring back. The most popular majors at the two-year institutions include Computer and Information Sciences, Mechanic and Repair Technologies, Personal and Culinary Services and Transportation and Materials Moving. Young Americans want to be taught a trade or a skill. Their parents want to know that their hard-earned dollars are going toward enriching their children's lives, not filling their heads with useless ideologies. A degree in 'intersectional solidarity' isn't a great way to make a living. American Universities better recognize that before they fail out. CEO pay for those running S&P 500 companies rose just 0.9% last year, after the steep increases of previous years. Growth in compensation packages for business leaders may be slowing, but the median pay was still $14.8 million, according to Equilar data. CEO pay soared by 17 percent in 2021 as boards rewarded their executives for managing companies through the uncertainties and challenges of the pandemic. But these large payouts increased the pay disparity between top bosses and their lower-ranking workers. The median-pay for rank-and-file workers at the S&P companies was $77,178, meaning it would take the average worker 186 years to make what a CEO did in just the last year. Alphabet boss Sundar Pichai raked in the highest package valued at nearly $226 million Large payouts have drawn criticism about the disparity between top bosses' and workers' pay At the same group of companies in 2021, it would have taken 190 years. Alphabet boss Sundar Pichai raked in the highest package valued at nearly $226 million. The compensation included a grant of restricted stock, valued at $218 million, and which Google grants its CEO every three years. The astounding package was paid out just before Google laid off tens of thousands of workers and as the company's total shareholder returns fell 39 percent last year. 'The clear disparity between executive rewards and our jobless former coworkers erodes trust and further underscores the need for transparency,' Stephen McMurtry, a Google software engineer and member of the Alphabet Workers Union-CWA, told the Associated Press. Like many companies, Alphabets equity portion of executive compensation is designed to reflect results over several years. Since Pichai started as CEO in 2015, Alphabets stock has nearly quadrupled, and the company has become the third most valuable on Wall Street. Apple CEO Tim Cook was no. 3 in the AP survey with a compensation package valued at $99.4 million, nearly identical to what Apple gave him in 2021.\ But Cook has requested a 40 percent pay cut for 2023, in response to the vote at last years annual meeting, where just 64 percent of shareholders approved of Cooks pay package, compared to 94% the previous year. Such shareholder pushback remains rare, however. The vast majority of companies included in APs survey received more than 90 percent support for their executive compensation programs in 2022. Since Pichai started as Alphabet CEO in 2015, Alphabets stock has nearly quadrupled, and the company has become the third most valuable on Wall Street Tim Cook smiles at an Apple event in Cupertino, California, on September 7, 2022 In many of the most eye-popping 2021 packages, such as Expedia Groups, valued at $296.2 million and JPMorgan Chases $84.4 million, boards gave particularly big grants of stock or stock options to recently appointed CEOs navigating their companies through the pandemic or to established leaders they wanted to convince to hang around. The CEOs often can't cash in on such stock or options for years, or possibly ever, unless the company meets performance targets. But companies still must disclose estimates for how much theyre worth. Only about a quarter of the typical pay package for all S&P 500 CEOs last year came as actual cash they could pocket. Anger was sparked over such an imbalance. Surveys suggest Americans across political parties see CEO pay as too high, and some investors are pushing back. Workers are trying to organize unions across the country, and the "Great Resignation" has emboldened millions to quit to find better jobs elsewhere. The U.S. government counted more than 4 million quits during April 2021 alone, the first time that happened. The monthly number has since topped 4.5 million twice. The app continues to be in the headlines as most recently Alexandria Ocasio Cortez said she will leave if Musk engages with fake accounts mocking her Fidelity, whose stake was valued at $19.66 million when Musk took ownership, now says it's worth a measly $6.55 million as of April 28 A Fidelity valuation of its stake in Twitter indicates the app's value has fallen by two-thirds since current CEO Elon Musk took over in October 2022 Twitter's value has plummeted to one-third of what it was when CEO Elon Musk purchased it in October - from $45 billion to $15 billion in just six months. A recent valuation from Fidelity of its stake in the social-media giant showed that the company has hemorrhaged value as their piece - $20 million in October - now sits at just $6.55 million. In January, a Fidelity report indicated that the value was plummeting and had decreased to $7.8 million following a massive drop in November as well. The financial news comes as Twitter and its controversial CEO, who purchased the company for $44billion in October, continue to make headlines, most recently for major glitches and big names leaving the app. On Tuesday, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced she would bid adieu if Musk did not stop engaging and interacting with an account parodying her. Twitter's value is now just one-third of what it was when CEO Elon Musk purchased it in October, some $15 billion compared to its sticker price of $45 billion last year In their financial disclosure report released Tuesday, Fidelity estimates their stake in X Holdings Corp - Musk's investment group - at $6,554,644. The exact value of Twitter has not been released but Fidelity's report implies an overall drop in valuation for the app. Fidelity did not give a reason for a drop in its stake. Musk has repeatedly acknowledged that he overpaid for Twitter when he bought it in October for a whopping $44 billion. In late March, Musk stated he believed Twitter is worth 'less than half' of what it cost him to buy it in the fall. In a company-wide email, he said the social media giant lost so much money since his initial purchase that it was valued at just $20 billion. At the time, he also defended his decision to layoff thousands of employees to help cut costs and the sale of some assets. The most recent financial analysis does not factor in new headlines including Musk naming Linda Yaccarino, NBCUniversal's advertising chief, as his successor. On May 12, Musk announced that Yaccarino 'will focus primarily on business operations, while I focus on product design & new technology.' In March, Musk said he believed Twitter is worth 'less than half ' of what it cost him to buy it The most recent financial analysis does not factor in new headlines including Musk naming Linda Yaccarino, NBCUniversal's advertising chief, as his successor Since Musk's takeover, Twitter has found itself at the end of negative headlines for a series of issues. A major hit came Tuesday when Musk was targeted by left-wing Democratic Rep. Ocasio-Cortez over a 'verified' social media account making fun of her. The politician said she was 'assessing' what to do after the billionaire replied to a tweet from the parody account, 'Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Press Release (parody).' 'FYI there's a fake account on here impersonating me and going viral,' AOC tweeted. 'The Twitter CEO has engaged it, boosting visibility.' She claimed the account was 'releasing false policy statements,' after previously tweeting about her boyfriend's farts and other issues. 'I am assessing with my team how to move forward,' Ocasio-Cortez said. 'In the meantime, be careful of what you see,' she warned her followers. Musk had recently replied to a tweet from the parody account, which wrote: 'This might be the wine talking but I've got a crush on @ElonMusk.' The Twitter CEO replied with a fire emoji. The parody account had sent out similar jokes aimed at the congresswoman. 'Every time my boyfriend farts I make him plant a tree to offset his carbon emissions,' one tweet reads. On Monday, the account also told its 170,000 followers to 'take a moment on this Memorial Day to remember all the citizens that lost their lives trying to come through our southern border.' On Tuesday, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced she would bid adieu if Musk did not stop engaging and interacting with an account parodying her. Her message came after Musk replied to a tweet from the parody account, which wrote: 'This might be the wine talking but I've got a crush on @ElonMusk' A decimated staff and shrinking server capacity has been blamed for the disaster presidential campaign launch by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (right) on Twitter Spaces Another hit came in the form of a massive tech glitch last week when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis attempted to announce his 2024 presidential run. DeSantis' attempt led to mass chaos as staff members scurried to get his planned Twitter Spaces announcement online as 500,000 people waited. Twitter's small Spaces staff numbers - originally 100 but now down to three - was blamed alongside a low server capacity. Half a million people were waiting for more than 20 minutes for the event to start, and people who were able to join were frequently kicked out. Spaces relies on servers from Amazon Web Services that are 'insanely underprovisioned,' the Daily Beast reported. 'Practically no one remaining knows the current architecture in depth,' another person said on the employee forum. After the event Twitter's head of engineering announced his resignation. Twitter has also faced a series of lawsuits in recent months since Musk took over the company. If February, Twitter faces lawsuits claiming more than $14million in unpaid bills from landlords and vendors. It was reported in December that Musk had stopped paying rent on the company's Seattle office. Former executives who were part of the mass terminations the day Musk took over, also filed a lawsuit in April against the company. They sued for more than $1million in legal bills. The news hasn't been all bad for Twitter since Musk's takeover. Former Fox host Tucker Carlson announced plans for a new show on Twitter after he was terminated from his top-rated slot on the news network. 'We bring some other things too, which we'll tell you about. But for now we're just grateful to be here. Free speech is the main right that you have. Without it, you have no others,' Carlson said in announcing the show. Musk has also promoted the 'record high usage' of Twitter users and said advertisers have returned. Utah Republican Rep. Chris Stewart announced he will resign from Congress due to his wife's illness on Wednesday, leaving Republicans with an even slimmer majority in the House. The seat will now go to a special election in the reliably Republican district. The six-term Mormon congressman did not say when he planned to leave office but said it would be 'after an orderly transition can be ensured.' Under Utah law, Gov. Spencer Cox has seven days to lay out a schedule to replace Stewart with a special election. Rep. Chris Stewart announced he will resign from Congress due to his wife's illness on Wednesday, leaving Republicans with an even slimmer majority in the House 'I can say with pride that I have been an effective leader for my beloved home state, and I'm honored to have played an important role in guiding our nation through some troubled times,' Stewart said in a statement. He did not specify what is wrong with his wife's health. Stewart and his wife Evie have six children together. Republicans currently hold 222 seats in the House compared to Democrats' 213 - meaning McCarthy can already only afford to lose four votes to push through party-line legislation. But the GOP absence would only be temporary as Stewart beat his Democrat challenger by 26 points last election. The GOP absence would only be temporary as Stewart beat his Democrat challenger by 26 points last election The 62-year-old has been in Congress since 2013 and serves on the House Appropriations Committee and the Intelligence Committee. Utah law requires Gov. Spencer Cox to call a special election for the Salt Lake City seat within seven days. Stewart was named as a potential for director of National Intelligence under the Trump administration and as recently as last year was rumored to be mulling over potential challenges to moderates Sen. Mitt Romney and Cox. Stewart, an Air Force veteran and author has written 14 books - including co-writing Elizabeth Smart's memoir about her kidnapping. The brother of a Missouri doctor who was found shot dead in an Ozarks lake this week has said he was the victim of a mysterious prior kidnapping attempt that may have been 'crypto related'. Dr. John Forsyth, 49, was found dead with a gunshot wound in Beaver Lake in northeast Arkansas on Tuesday, nine days after he was last seen alive leaving work at a hospital in Cassville, Missouri, police said. In a terse statement, the Benton County Sheriff's Department did not say where upon Forsyth's body the gunshot wound was located, or whether it appeared to be self-inflicted, leaving many unanswered questions in the case. Forsyth, a father of eight, had just finalized a divorce from his wife on May 11, and proposed marriage to his new fiancee three days before he was last seen alive on May 21. In an unusual twist, Forsyth's brother Richard told DailyMail.com that a little over a year ago, the doctor was kidnapped and threatened by unidentified individuals. Dr. John Forsyth, 49, was found dead of a gunshot wound in Beaver Lake in northeast Arkansas on Tuesday, nine days after he was last seen alive leaving work at a hospital in Missouri Forsyth's body was discovered about 20 miles away from the town where he was last seen alive, and where his car was found unlocked and abandoned Richard, who founded the crypto firm OnFo with his brother, said in a brief phone interview that in February 2022, John Forsyth was kidnapped and then released, but never filed a police report. Richard said he first learned about the kidnapping through a mutual friend, who only came forward to describe the incident to the family after John went missing earlier this month. The brother said he believed the kidnapping was 'crypto related' but that he did not know anything else about the perpetrators from the account of the mutual friend, who wished to remain anonymous due to ongoing safety concerns. Richard cautioned that there was no evidence yet linking the 2022 incident with John's death, but added: 'It stands out very stark in the tableaux of facts that have emerged about the case.' 'It was cold. He was zip-tied. He was made to feel very unsafe and taken on a car ride with some people to a bridge and was threatened,' Richard told Fox News Digital, which first reported the alleged kidnapping. 'He did not file a police report because he believed he was in continued danger,' the brother added. Messages left with the Benton County Sheriff's Office and the Missouri State Highway Patrol were not immediately returned. Authorities said Wednesday that they're still investigating what happened in the week between Forsyth's disappearance and the discovery of his body. No further information would immediately be available, authorities said. A kayaker found Forsyth's body on Tuesday afternoon in Beaver Lake, a large reservoir in Arkansas, the Benton County Sheriff's Office said. Forsyth was last seen alive early on May 21, as he was leaving Mercy Cassville Hospital, where he worked in the ER. He was reported missing later the same day The doctor's unlocked car was found at this dump site near a park in Cassville, the town in the Missouri Ozarks where he worked, with his wallet, two phones, a laptop and other items inside A kayaker found Forsyth's body on Tuesday afternoon near this area of Beaver Lake, a large reservoir in Arkansas, the Benton County Sheriff's Office said The body was found near the bank across from the Lost Bridge South area of Beaver Lake, which is about 20 miles south of Cassville, police said. Forsyth was last seen alive early on May 21, as he was leaving Mercy Cassville Hospital, where he worked in the ER. He was reported missing later the same day when he failed to show up for a shift. The doctor's unlocked car was found near an aquatic park in Cassville, the town in the Missouri Ozarks where he worked, with his wallet, two phones, a laptop and other items inside, his brother Richard Forsyth said in an Associated Press interview. Police told the family there were no signs of foul play around the car, a black Infiniti sedan. Forsyth stayed in a luxury RV near the hospital when he was on-call, and a search of the camper revealed that it was unlocked, with two cell phones left inside, which Richard told the Daily Beast was 'very uncharacteristic'. 'It doesn't seem like a person who left with a plan,' Richard said on Tuesday, before his brother's body was discovered. Richard also told the outlet that security footage showed his brother's Infiniti pulling into the aquatic park, when a white SUV arrives and parks near him. 'It leaves a few minutes later and [John] is seen walking around maybe 10 to 15 minutes after that,' Richard said cops told him. 'And then he walks away from his car.' Dr. John Forsyth (pictured), who vanished in Missouri just three days after proposing to his girlfriend, has been found dead in Arkansas The last person to hear from John (pictured), who launched a cryptocurrency with his brother, is thought to have been his fiancee After the doctor's abandoned vehicle was found, several law enforcement agencies searched about a nine-mile radius around the aquatic park using people, dogs and drones. Forsyth's family also set up a Facebook page in a desperate search for any information. 'My brother has now been missing for week,' his sister, Tiffany Andelin, wrote Monday. 'Im grieving, I'm afraid, and it feels like the world has tipped into sheer chaos.' The last known person who communicated with John Forsyth was the woman he'd recently gotten engaged to, who texted with him at around 7am on May 21, his brother told the AP. The last time the two brothers met in person was at dinner on Wednesday, May 17. 'I told him this is the happiest I'd seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future,' Richard Forsyth said. John Forsyth had worked at Mercy Hospital for about 15 years, his brother said, describing him as a doting father, part-time math nerd and dedicated physician. 'He really cared about his patients,' Richard Forsyth said. 'And he loved his kids.' The debt ceiling deal between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Biden cleared its first major hurdle on Wednesday when Democrats stepped in to allow the bill to pass a rules vote. Now the deal, known as the Fiscal Responsibility Act, heads to a final vote Wednesday night. Democrats had long insisted that it would be up to Republicans to vote yes on the rule of the bill - but that they would deliver on the final vote. 'It's very simple: The majority is responsible for passing the rule,' Democratic Whip Katherine Clark told reporters Wednesday morning. But after it became clear Republicans would be unable to clear the rule on their own a rush of Democrats went to the front of the chamber to change their vote, allowing the deal to move towards final approval. The rule vote passed 241-187: 29 Republicans opposed it and 52 Democrats voted for the rule. More Republicans are expected to oppose the bill in a final vote and more Democrats are expected to support it then. Members from the ideological far right and far left have been voicing their opposition to the deal, while Republicans are lining up to oppose the deal faster than Democrats. Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said McCarthy promised to deliver around 150 GOP votes -- meaning McCarthy had factored in about 70 defections. Democrats would need to step in and deliver the remainder of the votes. Jeffries said he planned to vote for the deal on Wednesday but refused to tell reporters how many Democratic votes could be expected. The debt ceiling deal between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Biden cleared its first major hurdle on Wednesday when Democrats stepped in to allow the bill to pass a rules vote The rule vote passed 241-187: 29 Republicans opposed it and 52 Democrats voted for the rule The House must first vote on the rule to move the bill forward then proceed to a final vote on the bill. Democratic leadership insisted it was the responsibility of Republicans to pass the rule, but Jeffries said when it comes to voting on the final bill, Democrats 'are going to make sure we don't default.' The bill has been endorsed at least by the 64-member Problem Solvers Caucus, which is comprised of members from both parties, and the 100-member New Democrats Coalition. Squad member Rep. Cori Bush announced she'll oppose the deal to deny Republicans the precedent to negotiate budget cuts with every lift of the debt ceiling. 'I'll be voting NO because St. Louis deserves a lifting of the debt limit with no strings attached. We need to break away from the vicious, nonsensical cycle where Republicans get to hold our economy hostage every few years,' she wrote on Twitter. On the right, Texas Rep. Pat Fallon said he would oppose the deal, 'Why? Because the bill: - Won't repeal billions for Biden's weaponized IRS - Keeps in place Biden's student loan bailout for gender studies degrees - Fails to ensure our defense spending keeps pace with Bidenflation.' Other progressive Democrats like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, N.Y., Ro Khanna, Calif., and Progressive Caucus Chair Pramila Jayapal have all said they will oppose the deal. McCarthy must walk a careful line of ushering a deal with Democrats through that will stave off a calamitous default and holding on to his speakership. Some right-wing Freedom Caucus members who balked at suspending the debt ceiling until Jan. 1, 2025, as agreed to in the deal, have floated the idea of invoking a motion to vacate - in which one member can force a vote on the House floor to oust McCarthy. Lead negotiator Rep. Garret Graves tore into Freedom Caucus members who have publicly bad-mouthed the deal even before text was released. Asked about Roy's criticisms, Graves told reporters 'there was some trust lost.' 'There really was, and I'm really offended.' Rep. Chip Roy said there would be a 'reckoning' if the deal was passed, and 'we're going to have to then regroup and figure out the whole leadership arrangement again.' Meanwhile Rep. Dan Bishop, R-N.C., called the deal a 's*** sandwich' and insisted the motion to vacate was on the table. On Wednesday Rep. Ken Buck, R-Colo., said McCarthy 'should be concerned' about a motion to vacate after the deal passes. 'He will win the vote tonight, but after this vote we will have discussions about whether there should be a motion to vacate or not,' he told CNN. Jeffries did not rule out the possibility of Democrats stepping in to save McCarthy's speakership, worried the Republican alternative could be less pragmatic. 'We'll cross that bridge when we get to it,' Jeffries told reporters, adding that Democrats have not discussed a 'hypothetical.' Senator Tim Scott has spoken out against Joy Behar's claim that he doesn't 'get' racism - despite being an African-American in the Deep South. Appearing on a podcast Tuesday, South Carolina's Scott, 57, decried The View host's on-air comments as the 'dumbest, most offensive thing he's ever heard on TV'. Behar's comments came hours after Scott announced his intent to run for president. The pointed characterization served as the first time the native South Carolinian publicly spoke about the controversy, after briefly addressing Behar's remarks in a tweet shortly after they were uttered on May 23. That said, the post did not slam Behar, 80, directly, but instead saw Scott, a devout Republican, criticize the left in general, stating: 'When a Black conservative who believes in the future of this nation stands up to be counted, they lose their minds.' His comments this time around - aired on The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show - were much more pointed, and referenced the longtime daytime fixture's blackface scandal that grabbed headlines just a few years ago. Scroll down for video: Appearing on a podcast Tuesday, South Carolina's Scott, 57, decried The View host's comments last week as the 'dumbest, most offensive thing he's ever heard on TV' Last Tuesday, Joy Behar bizarrely claimed the Republican could not possibly understand racism due to his political alignment. Her comments came hours after Scott announced his intent to run for president 'There's no doubt a white lady dressing up in black face giving a black man advice probably doesn't ring true in anyone's minds, certainly not my own,' said Scott of Behar's claims that he does not understand racism because he is a Republican. 'More importantly, I find it offensive and disgusting and dangerous'. The rookie senator who was elected to office this past November, first panned Behar for displaying a 1970s-era photo of herself dressed as a 'beautiful African woman' back in 2016, then pointed out partisan hypocrisies he said paved the way for such comments. 'Im used to having the left attack me because of the truth of my life,' Scott explained to pollical commentators Clay Travis and Buck Sexton. 'This proves their lies.' The former junior South Carolina senator continued: 'I say that because of this when I help write the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act [of 2017], they called me a prop. 'When I started talking about refunding the police, they called me a token. 'When I pushed back on President Bidens most malign agenda, they called me the "n-word". 'Im used to it,' he declared. 'Heres whats dangerous and offensive to me, for every young child in America wanting to think for themselves, draw their own conclusions. 'What they're saying to them is, "stay in your lane, do not stick your head out because we're going to tell you how to think because you never learned anything about what you should think."' He added: 'It is literally the dumbest, most offensive thing I've ever witnessed on TV' - to hear these millionaire TV personalities telling me how to live my life. The pointed characterization served as the first time the native South Carolinian publicly spoke about the controversy, after briefly addressing Behar's remarks in a tweet shortly after they were uttered on May 23 His comments this time around - aired on The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show - were much more pointed, and referenced the daytime fixture's recent blackface scandal, which came when she displayed this 70s photo of herself dressed as a 'beautiful African woman' in 2016 Behar's comments came hours after Scott announced his intent to run for president in Charleston on May 22 'As a Black man, but more importantly, suggesting to every child, stay in your place, follow my lead or you, too, will reap the same harvest as Tim Scott or Clarence Thomas - or any other conservative who dares to think for themselves.' The mention of Thomas, the conservative, African-American jurist who serves as the senior associate justice of the US Supreme Court, also came in reference to comments made by Behar last Tuesday - in which she likened the two black lawmen to each other while claiming they both don't understand systemic racism. 'Hes one of these guys, like Clarence Thomas, black Republican, who believes in pulling yourself up by your bootstraps, rather than understanding the systemic racism that African Americans face in this country and other minorities,' she said of Scott. 'He doesnt get it. Neither does Clarence. Thats why theyre Republicans.' The comment quickly proved divisive on social media, spurring several political commentators to weigh in and criticize Behar for her behavior. The comment quickly proved divisive on social media, spurring several political commentators to weigh in and criticize Behar for her behavior. Taking part in this backlash was Scott, who fanned the flames of outrage by touting himself as the candidate the 'radical left fears the most,' echoing statements delivered in Charleston last week during his 2024 campaign announcement. Behar, meanwhile, has yet to respond to Scott's callout - which referenced a 2016 episode of The View in which the show's most senior staffer admitted to dressing up as, in her own words, 'a beautiful African woman'. Behar had been discussing a New York Times op-ed praising naturally curly hair, before showing viewers a photo of herself at a Halloween party, aged 29, with tan skin and short, dark, curly hair. Former host Raven-Symone asked Behar if that was her, asking 'are you black?' Behar said that she had dressed up as an African woman, but said 'I only had makeup that was a little bit darker than my skin. That's my actual hair, though.' Former Vice President Mike Pence will kick off his 2024 bid for the presidency in a Des Moines, Iowa, rally on June 7, DailyMail.com has confirmed. Pence will then head to New Hampshire and other early voting states to lay out his message to voters. He is also set to participate in a CNN town hall in Iowa with Dana Bash following his official kick-off rally next Wednesday. The former vice president joins a growing field of GOP hopefuls including his old boss former President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Sen. Tim Scott, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is also expected to join the race next week. Former Vice President Mike Pence will kick off his 2024 bid for the presidency in a Des Moines, Iowa, rally on June 7 Pence, who hails from Indiana, has been teasing a 2024 presidential bid for months and he is expected to be at Sen. Joni Ernst's upcoming Roast & Ride event this weekend. He served for 12 years in the U.S. House of Representatives and for four years in Indiana as the state's governor. Pence, is known for his signature pro-life views, which he says he is 'unapologetic' about. He also has backed cuts to Medicare and Medicaid and fully supports giving aide to help Ukraine against Russia's attacks. He holds Reagan-era views on conservatism and separate federal and states rights. The former vice president has zig zagged across early voting states for the last several months, building momentum with the voting base. He will now officially come head-to-head with his former boss, Donald Trump, as the 2024 primary competition heats up. The former vice president is polling behind Trump and DeSantis in recent polls at around six percent. Trump has held a steady lead over the GOP pack, as support for DeSantis has dwindled. Pence laid out his ideal 'standard-bearer' for the Republican Party during a Federalist Society conference in Washington, D.C., last month. 'I believe that we as conservatives hold the keys we hold the solutions for America. But but but our challenge is to express those in a way that allows us to move our nation forward and I believe we can,' Pence said, referring to the 2024 election. Pence slammed the Biden administration's record in office as a 'disaster' and continues to compare the achievements of the Trump-Pence administration to the failing policies of the current leadership. The first time Pence made a jab at former President Donald Trump was before a similar crowd of conservative legal leaders over a year ago in February 2022. In his first real rebuke of the former president, Pence told the Federalist Society crowd in Florida: 'President Trump is wrong. I had no right to overturn the election.' The former vice president has zig zagged across early voting states for the last several months Since then, Pence has become more vocal about the pitfalls with Trump's handling in the aftermath of the 2020 election. The former vice president recently released a book titled 'So Help Me God,' in which he detailed his experience in the Capitol on January 6, 2021. During the riot at the Capitol, pro-Trump supported chanted 'hang Mike Pence,' which the former president defended. Pence also has been subpoenaed by a D.C. federal court to testify before a grand jury in a case related to the January 6 Capitol riot. The former vice president has not fought the subpoena, although Trump's attorneys stand ready to intervene on his behalf and seek executive privilege immunity. US Marshalls are attempting to track down a runaway California lawyer accused of scamming her clients out of $500,000 worth of settlement checks. Kelly Duford Williams, who owned her own law firm Slate Law Group, is evading arrest after a warrant was issued against her for grand theft in San Diego County. She has been accused of stealing upwards of $400,000 from her clients, her bail is due to be set at $250,000. Williams, 36, has since closed her law practice and gone on the run, so far evading arrest. The Bar Association found a total of 16 counts of misconduct against Williams, including misappropriation of funds, making false reports to police while using a false name, claiming to be a Deputy District Attorney and sending a staffer to court to pose as a lawyer. Williams owned her own boutique law firm Slate Law group before going on the run Chief Counsel George Cardona, said Williams wasnt credible and 'that she lied to the court point blank about certain facts at the trial.' The hearing officer found Williams culpable for all 16 counts. The California Supreme Court supported the State Bar's decision on Tuesday. Among those that have accused Williams of scamming them is Kia Vaara, who was referred to Williams practice by a friend after a dispute with her employer. Speaking to NBC 7 about her ordeal Ms Vaara said: 'She definitely advocated for me and she made me feel that I was in good hands.' Vaara described how Williams was adamant about being female empowered. She wanted to help her fellow woman, and I was a single mother and she believed in me and I believed her.' Williams one Ms Vaara's case and the dispute was settled with a $48,000 payout, but Vaara never saw the money. 'She assured me I would get my check within a week, 10 days. Thats when the gaslighting began,' she said. Vaara said that Williams would give her excuses, such as saying the check was in the mail, but it never arrived. Other victims have also filed complaints against Ms Williams, according to the Daily Beast, which dubbed her a 'sleazeball'. Williams, 36, has so far evaded arrest and is being hunted by US Marshalls Kia Vaara claims Williams stole her settlement check after winning her employment dispute The California Supreme Court supported the State Bar's decision to disbar Williams Williams has been accused of grand theft in San Diego County after criminal complaints allege she stole upwards of $400,000 from her former clients Williams poses with the San Diego Business Journal that featured her law firm in 2018 She is also accused of 'forging client signatures on settlement checks prior to depositing them,' according to the court records. Further to this Williams is also facing at least two civil lawsuits from former clients who claim she billed their credit cards without their knowledge, mishandled their cases and overcharged them for legal fees. On top of her professional woes Ms Williams ex-boyfriend alleges that she made his life hell and squatted in his home after he broke off the relationship. 'She made my life hell' the unnamed man told the Daily Beast in an interview, 'she was there all night,' he said, recalling how the backyard ended up littered with alcohol cans. In a Domestic Violence Restraining Order that Williams ex-husband filed against her in October 2021, he alleged that Williams 'abuses alcohol and prescription medications' and has expressed 'suicidal' thoughts. The girl is heard sobbing and apologizing as officers arrived at the Tulsa home on January 5 The siblings' mother April Lyda told police she was asleep when her daughter woke her up to say she had stabbed her brother, Zander Police bodycam footage captured the horrifying moments after a 12-year-old girl allegedly stabbed her nine-year-old brother to death in their Oklahoma home. The siblings' mother April Lyda told police she was asleep upstairs when her daughter woke her up shortly before midnight to say she had stabbed her brother, Zander. The girl, who has not been named by police, is heard sobbing and repeatedly apologizing as officers arrived at the downtown Tulsa home on January 5. The boy was rushed to the hospital and taken into surgery, but died from his injuries shortly after 2:30 a.m. CT. The edited video, obtained by The Law & Crime Network, begins with the girl running downstairs as she yells, 'I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry.' As the girl is taken out of the home by police, Lyda appears by the door frame saying the boy has stab wounds on his chest. The edited video begins with the girl running downstairs as she yells, 'I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry' The handcuffed girl then leads police to the knife she supposedly used to stab her brother, which she had thrown out of a window Mom April Lyda with her son, Zander, on a GoFundme appeal for the family after his 12-year-old sister was accused of stabbing him to death Bodycam: Cops Arrest 12-Year-Old Girl for Allegedly Stabbing Little Brother to Death in Oklahoma Bodycam footage shows Oklahoma police arresting a 12-year-old girl for allegedly stabbing her 9-year-old brother to death while their mother slept in January. The Tulsa Police Department said the suspect admitted to the deadly stabbing after being taken into custody. The middle school student can be heard apologizing over and over again, even praying for forgiveness while inside a police cruiser. Are the handcuffs necessary? Im a good child, the girl said in between tear-filled conversations with an officer. She asked whether she was going to jail numerous times before she proclaimed that her life was over. Portions of the bodycam were redacted and blurred by authorities per department policy related to ongoing investigations. Posted by Law & Crime on Friday, May 26, 2023 'You better pray to God he f*****g lives,' she tells the girl. 'I'm so sorry, momma,' the girl replies. 'I don't know what happened.' The handcuffed girl then leads police to the knife she supposedly used to stab her brother, which she had thrown out of a window. Once in the patrol car, the girl asks if she's going to jail as an officer tries to console her saying it's too soon to tell. 'I ruined my life,' she says. 'I ruined my whole future. It's all my fault.' At one point, the girl appears to pray as she says: 'God, please help me. What the f***. Please. F*** please.' While still in the car, she asks, 'Are the handcuffs necessary? Im a good child.' The officer tells her it is given the nature of the incident. The footage then skips to the police station, where an officer takes pictures of the girl's arms and hands. Lyda is then interviewed by police, and says her daughter has never displayed aggressive behavior in the past. 'I just dont understand why she would have so much anger toward him,' she says. 'Especially at bedtime.' At the end of the video, as two officers are talking, one says to the other: 'You just wonder whats going on in a 12-year-olds mind.' A motive for the killing remains unknown. Zander Lyda who was stabbed to death in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on January 5 this year A 12-year-old girl, who has not been identified, is accused of stabbing her younger brother, Zander Lyda, to death in Tulsa on January 5. Pictured: Zander Lyda 'I ruined my life,' she says. 'I ruined my whole future. It's all my fault' The footage then skips to the police station, where an officer takes pictures of the girl's arms and hands The girl is in juvenile custody with the Tulsa Police Child Crisis Unit in charge of the investigation. The Tulsa Police Department told DailyMail.com on Wednesday they are not making any comments on the case as it involves a juvenile and is under seal, per the District Attorneys office. Lyda's friends have started a GoFundMe to help the family with the costs of what they describe as an 'unexpected tragedy.' 'The loss of her 9 year old son to her 12 year old daughter has left this mother and their family completely devastated and confused, we are still trying to figure out why this happened,' the page reads. 'Her daughter was a well behaved child with no prior history of behavioral problems. Her son Zander was the sweetest boy who had the biggest smile, he loved to ride his bike, play fortnite, hang out with his best friend or just run errands with his mom.' The page adds that Lyda is still raising a three-year-old son as a single parent, and the funds will be used for their move to a new home, as well as legal fees, bills and a car repair. A shot from a news report after Zander Lyda was fatally stabbed on January 5. When officers arrived, firefighters and paramedics 'were already on scene and performing CPR to a 9-year-old male victim,' police said Pictured: The Family Center for Juvenile Justice in Tulsa, where the 12-year-old girl was being held after the fatal stabbing in January Lyda left a message on the GoFundMe in which she discusses the footage, saying ''it's not appropriate for them to post that.' She goes to claim that the girl started having behavior issues when 'she was put back on a medication she was off for over a year,' adding that 'it wasnt psych meds.' Lyda also wrote: 'I cant get into details because Im not sure what all Im allowed to share just yet. 'She has never even yelled at me, she was happy and energetic loves school, she is not mentally ill & has not been diagnosed with anything. She has been very well behaved the entire 6 months she has been gone and yes Im very supportive of her and love her very much, obviously there is a lot of healing that we both need before we can ever live together again.' The questions had covered Ukraine, North Korea and Sudanese peace talks when one of the White House briefing room's more robust questioners hijacked proceedings on Wednesday afternoon. After citing a secret F.B.I. file, an anonymous I.R.S. whistleblower and a Harvard-Harris poll earlier this month that found 53 percent of the public were suspicious of the first family's ties to foreign powers, The New York Post's Steven Nelson got to his question. 'So what do you say to the majority of Americans who believe that the president is himself corrupt?' he asked. 'Jesus,' was White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre's response, muttered off camera as she stared at her feet on the briefing room podium. That was not the official administration response, however. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre muttered 'Jesus' and spokesman John Kirby said 'wow' after being asked what they would say to Americans who believe Joe Biden is corrupt The famously unflappable National Security Council spokesman John Kirby had the lectern and the microphone. 'Wow,' was his momentarily flustered answer, as he shook his head before regaining his balance. 'The president has spoken to this ... the president has spoken to this. 'And there's nothing to these claims. 'And as for the whistleblower issue that you talked about and the document, I believe the FBI has spoken to that. You're gonna have to go to them on that.' Questions about the president's son, his foreign business dealings, awkward emails from his abandoned laptop, and even a lucrative foray into the art world are frequently met with weary resignation from officials in the White House briefing room. Those feelings were on full display midway through the briefing when things took an awkward turn after a routine question about artificial intelligence. Nelson, standing at the back of the room, deployed an old trick to ask a question. When Jean-Pierre pointed to a journalist nearby, he simply started delivering his query as if the press secretary's finger had been angled at him. Steven Nelson (standing, back row): 'So what do you say to the majority of Americans who believe that the president is himself corrupt?' Republicans have repeatedly tried to tie President Joe Biden to his son Hunter's (right) business dealings and now allege a bribery scheme when Biden was vice president. The White House has rubbished the claims and Republicans have yet to offer evidence 'There have been many developments in the House investigations into the first family's international business dealings recently,' he said. There was the House Oversight Committee trying to get its hands on an F.B.I. file that some Republicans insist includes allegations that Biden took millions of dollars in bribes when he was vice president. And an I.R.S. whistleblower has gone public with allegations of mishandling and political interference in an ongoing criminal probe into the president's son. 'In the middle of this there was a Harvard Harris poll this month that found that 53 percent of the public including a fourth of Democrats believe, "Joe Biden was involved with his son in an illegal influence peddling scheme,"' he continued, before dropping his explosive question. The latest claims have excited hardline Republicans, but are shrugged off by Democrats as partisan smears bereft of evidence. Rep. James Comer, chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, is demanding the F.B.I. turn over its file of evidence on 'Biden corruption' After the turmoil of the Donald Trump years, and his norm-busting decision not to put his assets in a blind trust or release his tax returns, the Biden administration has taken pains to paint itself as a return to business as usual. And after being sworn in, Biden drew a line under some of the complicated family links in the previous administration 'No one in our family and extended family is going to be involved in any government undertaking or foreign policy,' Biden told People magazine in January 2021. It came after Biden faced intense questioning about his son's business dealings and his position on the board of a Ukrainian energy company. Hunter told ABC News in 2019 that holding that position while his father was vice president showed 'poor judgment.' Those questions have only multiplied since his son's laptop, filled with messages to and from associates, was abandoned in a Delaware repair shop. A long-running federal investigation in the state is thought to be at a late stage, but no charges have yet been brought. Federal agents reportedly believe they have enough evidence to charge him with tax crimes and a false statement related to a gun purchase. Biden has said he has never spoken to his son about foreign business and there is no evidence that the probe involves the president. The White House on Wednesday rejected the claims of ex-Biden aide Tara Reade who said she was in danger of being killed after accusing him of assault - and who appears to be seeking to defect to Russia. White House national security spokesman John Kirby fielded questions about Reade from the White House on Wednesday, after her stunning appearance on Kremlin-backed Sputnik TV alongside convicted 'spy' Maria Butina. She spoke of her bid to move to Russia in an interview where she blasted Biden and the 'corrupt' Democratic National Committee and echoed Kremlin talking points on the war in Ukraine. Asked if she was part of a Russian influence operation, Kirby responded: 'I've seen no evidence or proof of that.' He was initially reluctant to get into the details of Reade's case but did contradict her claim of being a target for assassination. White House national security spokesman John Kirby spoke out against 'absolutely false' claims by Tara Reade that she was in danger of being killed after raising assault allegations against Biden dating to the 1990s during the 2020 campaign Biden assault accuser Tara Reade said she is defecting to Russia. She sat for an interview on Kremlin-backed Sputnik television with Maria Butina, who was convicted of acting as an unregistered foreign agent in the U.S. 'We'd be loath to comment on the musings of a potential Russian citizen - that's really up for her to speak to,' Kirby said. 'I mean, I can't get inside her head and speak for her motivations and intentions. That's really for her to speak to. 'The one thing I will say is that allegations that her life was at risk by the United States Government. Absolutely false, baseless. There's nothing to that.' Kirby said he hasn't seen a link to Russian influence operations but then did opine on Moscow's efforts and desire to interfere in U.S. elections. 'I would let this prospective Russian citizen speak for her intentions and motivations. I mean, look, it's a matter of record that that Mr. Putin and the Russian government have tried to interfere and actually did interfere in our elections going back as far as 2016,' he said, referencing the hacking operations that U.S. intelligence traced to a St. Petersburg troll farm backed by the Kremlin. 'And then that's a matter of record. It should come as no surprise to anybody that that Mr. Putin would show an interest in making it hard for President Biden to win election and to try to interfere in his ability to govern as president United States. But whether this particular move by this particular individual is some sort of Russian information, or propaganda campaign I just don't know.' His comments came following the news that Reade, who during the 2020 campaign accused Biden of trying to assault her in 1993, is seeking to defect to Russia. She said on a Kremlin-backed program that she has fears for her own safety in the U.S. Reade made a series of stunning assertions while appearing on Russian state TV with Maria Butina, who was convicted of acting as an unregistered foreign agent inside the U.S. while cultivating relationships with a series of U.S. political figures. Reade called Butina 'my friend.' Butina, who was elected to the state Duma in Russia and subjected to U.S. sanctions after Russia's Ukraine invasion, said Reade made her decision on a visit to Moscow. 'I'm still kind of in a daze a bit but I feel very good,' Reade said in an appearance aired on Sputnik. 'I feel very surrounded by protection and safety. And I just really so appreciate Maria [Butina] and everyone who's been giving me that at a time when it's been very difficult to know if I'm safe or not.' She fielded questions from audience members during an appearance, where she bashed the U.S. position arming Ukraine following Russia's invasion. 'It's very sad that America has chosen the wrong side in history,' she said, echoing Kremlin propaganda about the Ukrainian government. She described her visit to Moscow as breaking impressions. 'The food tastes so good - there's no chemicals, there's no GMOs,' she said. 'I'm not just giving you a smoke screen.' She said she wasn't sure she would go back to the U.S. even if Biden is replaced, although she expressed doubts he 'makes it to run again.' 'I'm not sure if the new president will change anything for me. I have lawyers working right now to figure out because some of the cases are sealed that are against me, so I don't know what they have in mind. But I do know this that unfortunately, the Democratic National Committee is quite corrupt. Unless that's dismantled and taken down. I'm not sure things will get better,' she said. Reade raised assault allegations against Biden from 2023 when she was in his Senate office Butina bashed the U.S. position arming Ukraine following Russia's invasion She echoed Russian propaganda by saying the U.S. was funding 'extremists and Nazis' 'I just didn't want to walk home and walk into a cage or be killed, which is basically my two choices,' she told Sputnik. 'To my Russian brothers and sisters, I'm sorry right now that American elites are choosing to have such an aggressive stance. Just know that most American citizens do want to be friends,' she said, the DailyBeast reported. She also tore into U.S. defense contractors, and called the bombing of the Nordstream pipeline a 'war crime' that she suggested was carried out by the U.S. echoing Kremlin claims. Butina said through a translator she would pursue 'people to people contacts' in Russia and experience Russian culture, and pledged to help her draft her applications to support her finding 'a way for Tara to stay here in Russia' that would go all the way to Russian President Vladimir Putin. She said she would help pursue a 'fast track procedure.' Reade during the 2020 presidential campaign accused Biden of having sexually assaulted her while he was a senator. Biden and his team denied the allegation. But after the allegations drew headlines, there were reports she 'left a trail of aggrieved acquaintances in California's Central Coast region who say they remember two things about her she spoke favorably about her time working for Biden, and she left them feeling duped.' That included a landlord who called her 'manipulative' and who said when then she and her husband wanted to sell the unit she was renting Reade, who went by a different name, told her ''You're going to have to pay me to get me to leave.' PBS interviewed 74 former Biden staffers after Reade leveled her allegations of sexual assault from the 1990s. The New York Times reported in April 2020 that Reade, who had featured in reports from multiple women who said Biden engaged in kissing and hugging that made them uncomfortable, had alleged that Biden sexually assaulted her in 1993 in a Senate office building. But it also reported that 'no other allegation about sexual assault surfaced in the course of reporting, nor did any former Biden staff members corroborate any details of Ms. Reade's allegation.' She issued a cryptic tweet earlier this month after Republican Reps. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) and Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) invited her to testify. 'I want to make something clear. If something happens to me, all roads lead to Joe Biden. Joe Biden and DNC political machine threats, bullying and intimidation over the last three years will not work. I am not suicidal. I should not be under investigation nor am I a foreign agent.' Late last year, Russian diplomats sought to bring Reade to the UN to testify about diversion of U.S. weapons provided to Ukraine, Semafor reported. Francesca and Michael Williams spent nearly a decade building a new life in the Ecuadorian countryside - living off the land at their 'humble Shangri-La' farm with their three teenage daughters. But their dream life was shattered one Saturday evening, when a gang of men approached their secluded home and murdered Francesca as she hung out laundry. California-born mother-of-three Francesca, 44, was shot in the back as the assailants tied down and beat up her husband, stabbed her father, and terrorized her three young daughters before rummaging through their home. Their humble home - where the Williams family raised chickens, goats, pigs and horses after moving from the States in 2014 - was turned into a bloodbath during the fatal, violent raid on May 20. Francesca and Michael practiced sustainable farming, and often posted images online of their doting animals, sweeping landscape views, and happy rural life. The five surviving family members are now moving back to Colorado in the aftermath of the invasion at their idyllic, rural farm in Vilcabamba, Ecuador. California-born mother-of-three Francesca, 44, was shot in the back as the assailants tied down and beat up her husband, stabbed her father, and terrorized her three young daughters before rummaging through their home Francesca's three daughters Rebekah, 19, Rachel, 17, Renee, 14, were all at the property when the ambush started and witnessed the attack on their grandfather, mother, and father A picture of Francesca Williams from 2016 tending to her many animals at her idyllic home she built in Ecuador with her husband The UC San Diego graduate was hanging laundry outside her tranquil farm home in the South American countryside when the gang started to approach their property. Francesca saw that her disabled father John, 65, whom she cared for, was being attacked by the men - so she rushed down to save him. The men stabbed John multiple times and then turned their attention to his daughter Francesca, gunning her down. Her three daughters Rebekah, 19, Rachel, 17, Renee, 14, were all at home when the ambush started and witnessed the attack on their grandfather, mother, and father. Rachel heard gunshots and immediately shut their front door, but the men made their way inside and forced her and Renee to direct them during the pillage. Rebekah was in her yurt, an outdoor-living tent, when the commotion kicked off - and rushed into the jungle before running to nearby neighbors to seek help. Their father Michael, meanwhile, was bound and beaten unconscious by the men. It was only after they fled with the family's possessions and belongings - including iPads, money, and computers - that he escaped and went searching for his wife, Francesca, and his eldest daughter Rebekah. The mom-of-three was found on the land, bleeding out from her bullet wound, which hit near her heart. They scrambled to carry her body to their car and drove to get medical attention, but it was too late. Francesca, a multi-lingual published author and illustrator, was also a carer for her disabled father. Tributes have flooded in for the beloved mother. No one is in custody but an investigation is ongoing. The U.S. State Department said in a statement: 'We offer our sincerest condolences to the family on their loss. We are in contact with the family and are providing all appropriate consular assistance. 'We refer you to the government of Ecuador for information regarding any local investigation. Out of respect to the family during this difficult time, we have no further comment.' The view of the family's rural home in Vilcabamba, Ecuador Francesca Williams, from Poway, California, lived in Colorado before moving to Ecuador with her family. But they experienced a terrifying break in, in which Francesca was shot dead Francesca Williams, her husband Michael, and their three daughters Rachel, Renee and Rebekah. They all lived at the farm in Vilcabamba, Ecuador Michael told KDVR: 'We need to navigate this grief we are about to go through. There are a ton of different stages of this right now, were on a heightened level of anxiousness and security because we arent in a safe place. 'We never would have imagined people were staking us out. 'We are so far removed. Its a three-kilometer drive to and from. And to hike and in and out, its incomprehensible.' Williams was outside when he felt like he was hit in the head with a brick - and then Rachel, one Francesca's daughter, saw her grandpa on the floor with strange men, fighting them off. She then heard gunshots. The men made their way into the home ordering her and her other sister Renee around - asking in Spanish where the 'large aunt' was. Rachel said this was when she realized they may have had the wrong home, because no one matching that description had ever been at their property. Francesca Williams, from Poway, California, she was shot in the back - near her heart - as the group of men tied down and beat up her husband, stabbed her father, and terrorized her three daughters while they rummaged through their home Francesca was killed, while her husband and father (pictured) were beaten and stabbed during the ordeal. The daughters were physically unharmed but endured the horrific home raid Michael said: 'I found my wife and she had been killed. We ran down the hill and into our car and took her to emergency services, but it was too late for her.' Speaking about how Francesca was doing all she could to help her family when the robbers arrived, Michael said: 'I think they saw Francesca as a threat and she was physically capable of handling that man. 'I think things could have been a lot worse if she didnt interfere. She probably did her best to make sure we were all alright.' Marianna Bacilla, Francesca's adoptive mom who lives in Poway, California, launched a fundraising page for her daughter in the wake of the tragedy. Francesca often shared images of her scenic life in Ecuador. It's unclear if this is her farm pictured Francesca (left) pictured with one of her daughters The GoFundMe read: 'On Saturday night, May 20th, my daughter Francesca Williams was killed in a home invasion robbery at her farm in Ecuador. 'My three granddaughters are physically unharmed, but the trauma is immeasurable. My son-in-law, Michael, was badly battered. 'Francescas birth father, John, whom shed been caring for, was stabbed multiple times. Both Michael and John are out of the hospital and are going to be okay, physically. 'They all endured horrendous trauma. Their Ecuadorian community is fully embracing them - taking care of them until they all fly home to the U.S. at the end of May. 'We are working with the U.S. consulate in Ecuador to help return Francescas body to the United States. Writing about her daughter, she wrote: 'Francesca was the light of our life. She was a devoted wife and mother of three beautiful daughters. She graduated from Poway High School and UCSD with a BA in Linguistics. 'She was fluent in French, Spanish and Lithuanian. She was a translator and an avid writer and illustrator who had published her first book, The Kings Magic. In the small town of Vilcabamba, Ecuador, Francescas family lived on a small farm they were building themselves, raising chickens, goats, horses, pigs, ducks and guinea fowl, working toward a goal of sustainable farming. - It was their humble Shangri-La. 'Her family will be returning to their home in Colorado. Francesca will be buried in the Riverside Cemetery in Kremmling, CO. 'She will be buried next to my sister Stephanie, Francescas biological mother who died in 2021, shortly after Mark, my late husband. 'Thank you for understanding the need to share my heart and my pain with you. We appreciate your support.' The beer brand's parent company, Anheuser-Busch, continues to shed billions in market value as a national boycott appears to be sticking Bud Light announced Tuesday that it is donating $200,000 to the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce in support of its Communities of Color Initiative, as the company continues to struggle in the wake of the Dylan Mulvaney scandal. The once most-popular beer brand in America continues to hemorrhage market value in the wake of its April partnership with trans Dylan Mulvaney. The partnership sparked protests and backlash and parent company Anheuser-Busch has shed $26 billion in value in mere months. Bud Light's latest donation to the LGBTQ group is an extension of a partnership established last year between the company and the NGLCC, and a continuation of work Bud Light and parent company Anheuser-Busch have done with the LGBTQ community for years. 'This initiative is designed to support the growth and success of minority LGBTQ+-owned businesses through certification, scholarships and business development in an effort to create equal opportunities for the economic advancement of small businesses in the LGBTQ+ community,' read a release announcing the initiative. Bud Light has donated $200,000 to the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce despite the company losing $26billion in market share since its partnership with trans Dylan Mulvaney For the week ended May 20, Bud Light sales were down 25.7% from the same week a year ago as the company continues to struggle Cases of Bud Light are seen marked down in a Florida store. For the four weeks through May 20, Bud Light sales dropped 24.3 percent from last year 'The brand will also be supporting NGLCCs first-ever CoCi Biz Pitch program, where the winning minority LGBTQ+ business owner will receive $5,000 and have the chance to go on to compete at the 2023 NGLCC International Business & Leadership Conference LGBT Biz Pitch Competition for $50,000 in cash and prizes.' Bud Light's parent company Anheuser-Busch has seen its market value plunge since the disastrous campaign with transgender-influencer Dylan Mulvaney. Shares tanked Wednesday to a new eight-month low of $53. AB's overall sales have dipped by 10 percent compared to the same time last year. Since April 1, the company has consistently been losing value, as experts say the situation 'just keeps getting a little worse each week'. AB's competitors, however, have added $3.2billion in market value to their brands in the same time. Molson Coors, which owns Coors Lite, has seen an increase of $2.2billion in market value, around 20 percent, while Heineken has enjoyed a $1billion spike an increase of 1.7 percent. Experts continue to predict bad news for Bud Light. 'We believe there is a subset of American consumers who will not drink a Bud Light for the foreseeable future,' wrote JPMorgan analysts in a note to clients last week. The partnership between Mulvaney and Bud Light sparked an immediate backlash and boycotts Bud Light has tried to win consumers back by offering steep discounts but store shelves remain filled with the brand In the company's latest attempts to deal with the backlash, Anheuser-Busch has told wholesalers it will buy back unsold cases of Bud Light that are past their expiration date. The company has also turned to its more traditional advertising themes as it tries to win back consumers and improve its image. Recently, the company turned to offering steep discounts for people who buy Bud Light. A $15 rebate was offered online during Memorial Day weekend, which in some places would have made a case of Bud Light free. Commentator Ashley St. Clair shared a picture of a promotional offer on Twitter and poked fun at it. 'The Bud Light marketing team must still be all women if they think a coupon will get a man's attention,' she wrote. Despite Bud Light and CEO Michel Doukeris' best efforts, the brand hasn't seen any rebound in sales since the Mulvaney partnership. About two months ago, Mulvaney posted the digital content to her accounts to coincide with the NCAA March Madness tournament - joking that she wasn't even sure what sport she was promoting. The campaign was the brainchild of Alissa Heinerscheid, vice president of marketing for Bud Light, who was placed on leave soon after the incident. Her boss, Daniel Blake, Budweiser's group vice president for marketing, was also removed from his role in the backlash. For the week ending May 6, in-store sales of Bud Light across the US were down 23.6 percent compared to the year before. And the week before that, ending April 29, sales dropped by 23.3 percent. This follows declines in sales for the week ending April 22, which saw a 21.4 percent decline. Seven days earlier, the dip has been 17 percent, according to NielsenIQ data provided to Dailymail.com by Bump Williams Consultancy. Since April 1, when Mulvaney posted the ad with Bud Light, the company has continued losing money, as experts say it 'just keeps getting a little worse each week' The data - showing that US sales of Bud Light are dropping by as much as 20 percent each week - is being uniformly viewed by industry experts as a negative trend that may not reverse itself anytime soon. Beer Business Daily editor Harry Schuhmacher told Fox News Digital that the 'whole industry is in shock'. He claimed the newfound demand for lagers not owned by Anheuser-Bush could result in a trickle-down effect on the industry. He said: 'Even Bud's competitors aren't really dancing on the grave because they know it could have happened to them. 'You can't just flip a switch and make beer. You know, beer is brewed. It takes, you know, at least a couple of weeks to make.' Across social media platforms, Bud Light has turned off the reply function in the wake of intense online backlash to its partnership with trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney, which has led to a national boycott of Anheuser-Busch products. The company hasn't posted on Twitter since April 14, opting to skip the Memorial Day weekend when beer consumption is part of many celebrations. The brand's last post read 'TGIF?' with a picture of the iconic blue can. Over $1.3 billion has been funneled abroad to China and Russia through 'pointless projects' over the last five years according to a compilation of taxpayer-funded grants uncovered by Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa. Nonprofit transparency group Open the Books worked with Ernst to put together a new analysis of data from USAspending.gov, which found that between 2017-2022, U.S.-funded grants and contracts amounting to $490 million were paid to Chinese organizations and another $870 million was sent to entities in Russia. According to Ernst's analysis, the U.S. handed out millions in strange 'pet projects' to its biggest adversaries. The study found the State Department handed nearly $58.7 million to China, and used nearly $100,000 of that sum to promote 'gender equality' awareness through a series of New Yorker magazine cartoons. In addition, the Department of Health and Human Services shelled out over $770,00 to a state-run lab in Russia to put 'cats on treadmills.' 'When I followed the trail, it is gravely concerning that the final destination of more than $1.3 billion U.S. tax dollars was pointless projects in China and Russia,' Ernst told DailyMail.com The Department of Health and Human Services shelled out over $770,00 to a state-run lab in Russia to put 'cats on treadmills' According to publicly available tracking information, Georgia Tech sent $770,466 of a $2.7M NIH grant to the Kremlin-linked Pavlov Institute of Physiology. The institute conducted experiments on cats - including implanting electrodes into their spines and muscles and removing parts of their brains. They were also locked into a metal frame and forced to walk on treadmills. The cats were then killed and dissected. The grant was terminated in May 2022. Other previously unexposed grants included $51.6 million from the Department of Defense to China, which specifically allotted $6 million for tech support of the military's 'deployment and distribution command' software. Ernst, the first female combat veteran to serve in the Senate, flagged it should be especially concerning to Americans because the DOD inspector general has warned the Pentagon about using Chinese IT companies on government projects. Other pockets of money went to Russia for alcohol and addiction research and to a health insurance company that was sanctioned by the U.S. in 2022 after the country's invasion of Ukraine, according to the Republican. Ernst also flagged the already-known millions given to China's state-run Wuhan Institute of Virology through NIH grants to EcoHealth Alliance, which she says used the U.S. taxpayer dollars to conduct 'dangerous experiments' on bat coronaviruses. 'When I followed the trail, it is gravely concerning that the final destination of more than $1.3 billion U.S. tax dollars was pointless projects in China and Russia,' Ernst told DailyMail.com in a statement. 'I've tracked down the money, so Americans can know exactly where their hard-earned dollars are going, and we can put an end to this egregious spending.' As a result of the findings, lawmakers are looking into ways to ensure greater accountability in the future. Ernst, along with Rep. Mike Gallagher, R-Wis., who is the chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, introduced a new bill Wednesday to ensure greater transparency on payments to China and Russia in the future. Mike Gallagher, R-Wis., is the chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party 'This is crazy, but to make matters worse, this may only be the tip of the iceberg,' said Gallagher The 'Tracking Receipts to Adversarial Countries for Knowledge of Spending (TRACKS) Act' would require government agencies to publicly disclose any grant they give to America's greatest adversaries. 'Thanks to Senator Ernst's work, we know the federal government has wasted more than one billion in U.S. taxpayer dollars on our adversaries. This is crazy, but to make matters worse, this may only be the tip of the iceberg,' said Gallagher. 'The TRACKS Act brings badly needed transparency to how we spend federal dollars and will help us take steps to hold the government accountable and prevent taxpayers from supporting our adversaries.' A GOP aide noted that the $1.3 billion figure is not all of the money that went to China and Russia over the 2017-2022 time frame. The new legislation would ensure that other amounts are now captured and included in public reporting forums, including money sent to the Wuhan Institute of Virology, the aide added. White Coat Waste Project Senior Vice President Justin Goodman, who worked with Ernst on exposing the grants, added: 'Our Worldwide Waste investigations have exposed how dangerous and illegal federal loopholes make it literally impossible for Congress and taxpayers to determine how much of our money is being funneled to foreign animal labs and how it's being spent.' He called it 'especially challenging' to follow the money because of 'reporting loopholes' that allowed taxpayer dollars to be 'indirectly shipped' to foreign labs. A nurse has appeared in court accused of killing a boy of seven at Britain's biggest private children's hospital. Anuradha Bhupathiraju, 62, is charged with gross negligence manslaughter over the death of James Dwerryhouse, whose sleeping equipment was allegedly left off for nearly three hours. He died of a catastrophic brain injury. The nurse has now appeared before Westminster magistrates accused of causing James's death by leaving his monitor turned off without a doctor's permission. The boy, who suffered from numerous health conditions, which meant he had to be fed through a tube, had been in hospital for a routine bowel operation. Because he suffered from sleep apnoea, which can cause life-threatening breathing stoppages, he was connected to equipment that alerted doctors to any deterioration in his breathing as he slept. James Dwerryhouse, 7, (pictured) died after his monitor was turned off at Portland Hospital in London James' father John (left) told an inquest his son was energetic and playing with his Playmobil figures after coming round from surgery (John Dwerryhouse pictured with his Marguerite) But the vital equipment was allegedly removed during the early hours. His father John told his son's inquest that after coming round from surgery on the morning of August 25, 2016, his son was energetic and sitting in his bed playing with his Playmobil figures. Mr Dwerryhouse said he then received a call at around 4.20am to say that James wasn't well and that he and his wife Marguerite needed to come to the hospital right away. When the couple arrived, their son's eyes were half closed, he was covered in a rash and his dilated pupils indicated he was brain dead, Mr Dwerryhouse said. James Dwerryhouse, 7, (pictured) died of a brain injury as a result of sleep apnoea following surgery on the morning of August 25 2016 Anuradha Bhupathiraju, 62, a nurse at Portland Hospital, is charged with manslaughter James was transferred to the Treehouse Hospice in his hometown Ipswich, where he died on August 28. A verdict of hypoxic-ischemic brain injury as a result of sleep apnoea was recorded at his inquest in 2017. Bhupathiraju, a nurse with more than three decades of experience, spoke in court on Tuesday only to confirm her name, date of birth and her address. Senior District Judge Paul Goldspring bailed her ahead of a plea hearing at Southwark Crown Court next month. She is prohibited from leaving the UK and must surrender her passport to the police. A Civil service diversity adviser has been blasted for linking women's rights groups to the far-Right and suggesting they are calling for trans genocide. Saorsa-Amatheia Tweedale, the transgender ambassador for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), claimed fascists giving Nazi salutes had been 'welcomed' on rallies by so-called gender critical campaigners abroad. She alleged that some leaders of the movement who believe biological sex cannot be changed have made 'statements of a genocidal nature'. And she called on her trade union to 'work with anti-fascist groups' to show 'what genocide can look like' within the 'anti-trans narrative'. Her explosive comments were made in an emergency motion tabled at last week's conference in Brighton of the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union, which is behind a wave of recent strikes in the Passport Office, DVLA and HMRC, and is now considering industrial action over the Government's Rwanda migrant policy. Saorsa-Amatheia Tweedale (pictured) claimed fascists giving Nazi salutes had been 'welcomed' on rallies by so-called gender critical campaigners abroad The motion called on delegates to note that 'the presence of far-Right activists at the gender critical rallies in Australia was welcomed by the organisers even when they gave Nazi salutes', as well as the 'statements of a genocidal nature made by some'. Her claims over the Australian rally have been disputed, with organisers saying the far-Right group gatecrashed the event to cause trouble and were let through by police. Ms Tweedale tabled the motion in her role as the union rep for the DWP branch in Bradford, but she is also the department's national diversity ambassador on trans issues. READ MORE: 'Shocking' figures show Whitehall civil servants took over 770,000 sick days last year - with a 38% increase in 'mental health sick days' compared to year before Labour said the figures showed a 'crisis' of mental health throughout Whitehall Advertisement Her motion called on the union's national executive council to produce a leaflet and campaign 'which highlights the links between the far-Right, religious fundamentalist and gender critical ideologies'. She also asked the PCS's ruling body to 'promote an understanding of what genocide can look like in... anti-trans narratives', and a member's bulletin about 'biological essentialism'. The conference motion has sparked fury among the public sector. Critics pointed out that gender critical views are protected by law and are common among Left-wing feminists. One civil servant said: 'To use the word genocide to describe a belief in sex being real is an insult to the victims of actual genocides.' Ms Tweedale did not respond to requests to comment and blocked the Mail from seeing her Twitter posts. A DWP spokesman said: 'This is a matter for the trade union in question.' The PCS did not respond to requests for comment. A trans activist who disrupted Professor Kathleen Stock's speech at the Oxford Union earlier this week was allowed to walk free. Riz Possnett, 20, glued themselves to the floor in an attempt to disrupt the event. They were eventually escorted from the building and arrested by officers for criminal damage. But minutes later, Possnett was let go and applauded by the woke mob calling for the feminist academic's speech to be cancelled. A cheeky barber is turning up the heat on speeding motorists - by giving them the hairdryer treatment. Paul Johnson decided to take action after becoming concerned about drivers failing to slow down on a one-way system outside his shop. Between customers, he dons a high-vis jacket and stands on the pavement, where he points his hairdryer at traffic, tricking drivers into thinking its a radar gun. The father-of-three, 51, initially performed the prank for just a few minutes - but was shocked when passing cars began slowing down. He said it was such a success he has continued to repeat the trick on a regular basis. Cheeky barber Paul Johnson, 51, tricks drivers into thinking his hairdryer is a speed gun The father-of-three tricks drivers into slowing down between customers at his shop (pictured) in Northwich, Cheshire Mr Johnson, who has worked as a barber for 37 years, said he has even received requests to bring his hairdryer to fool speeding drivers on other roads nearby. He revealed the prank came as a result of larking about with one of his stylists. Mr Johnson, whose shop is in Northwich, Cheshire, said: The idea came about from one of our stylists called Lee. Hes going on holiday to France soon and you need to have a hi-vis jacket in your car in France in case you break down. I decided to try one of them on and I just stood outside messing around, pointing the hairdryer at cars and everyone was slowing down and looking at me. The barber said there are usually quite a few speeding drivers on the 30mph road outside. He said when motorists realise they have been tricked, they usually take it in good humour. He said: They all just start laughing and beeping their horns. One motorist who had a brush with the law thanks to Mr Johnsons prank was Kyle Dunne, who had driven past the salon on his motorbike. Paul Johnson, 51, (pictured) now dons his hi-vis jacket and performs the prank regularly The prankster said the idea for the trick came as a result of larking about with one of his stylists at his barber shop (pictured) in Northwitch, Cheshire Mr Dunne believed the barber was holding a real radar speed gun and immediately slowed down fear of getting points on his licence. The 31-year-old said: I slowed down to 20mph. I have six points on my license on my motorbike so I have to be careful these days. I kept looking down at my dash to check and I was only doing 20mph and I didnt know what was wrong. And then he turned the hairdryer to the side, so I could see what it was, and I just burst out laughing - I knew Id been pranked. But Mr Dunne, the owner of a car body repair and paintwork business, added: I think it was a very good idea as it makes people aware of what they are doing without any consequences - and a bit of fun as well. To make up for his cheeky prank, Mr Johnson tracked down Mr Dunne on Facebook and has offered him a free haircut. Mr Johnson, who has been praised on social media, added: Its just good and a bit of advertising for the business in a way. Some people have asked me to go and stand around other parts of town and do fake speed recording there. Commenting on a photograph of Mr Johnson posing with the speed gun hairdryer, one Facebook user said: Well done, Paul. Why dont others think of that? She pleaded guilty to manslaughter by negligence and was today fined in Belize Socialite Jasmine Hartin was last night handed a 30,000 fine for killing a Belizean police chief with his own gun. Hartin, 33, initially denied responsibility over the death of Superintendent Henry Jemmott but pleaded guilty to manslaughter by negligence at a hearing in April. At the Supreme Court in Belize City yesterday, she was also handed 300 hours' community service and told she must record a video to teach others about the dangers of 'drinking and making foolish decisions'. The estranged partner of Tory grandee Lord Ashcroft's son Andrew had previously insisted the officer's death was a 'horrible accident'. Mr Jemmott was killed by a shot to the head while he and Hartin were drinking together late at night on a pier in 2021, near Mr Ashcroft's luxury hotel on the island of Ambergris Caye. Jasmine Hartin, 33, leaves the Supreme Court after sentencing on her charge of manslaughter by negligence begins at the Belize City Supreme Socialite Jasmine Hartin was last night handed a 30,000 fine for killing a Belizean police chief with his own gun Socialite Jasmine Hartin has avoided jail and been fined 30,000 after killing a Belizean police chief with his own gun Hartin, 33, initially denied responsibility over the death of Superintendent Henry Jemmott (pictured with sister Cherry) but pleaded guilty to manslaughter by negligence at a hearing in April Hartin claimed Mr Jemmott had offered to teach her how to use his Glock-17 pistol for her protection. She wept in court as she entered a guilty plea to manslaughter by negligence at the last-minute before her trial was due to take place. Mr Jemmott's widow Romit Wilson, 39, criticised Hartin's behaviour throughout the court case, accusing the socialite of conducting an 'international PR campaign'. Ms Wilson, who had three children with Mr Jemmott, broke her silence to tell the Daily Mail Hartin had sought to portray herself as the victim. She previously told this newspaper: 'I have not given any interviews to any media houses since the day Henry was killed. 'I have focused on our children, taking care of them and dealing with our grief. I know they say grief comes in waves, but ours has been constant. 'My children and I have had to endure Ms Hartin recounting in interview after interview, in full documentaries even, details of that awful night, details of her friendship with Henry and even details about my relationship with Henry. 'She said she pleaded guilty to not put us through the anguish of a trial. I wish she had also thought about that before her international PR campaign.' The Jemmott family's lawyer, Leslie Mendez, also criticised Hartin for trying to 'inject uncertainty' over her plea. Ms Mendez said: 'You cannot waffle on the veracity of your guilty plea and, at the same time, maintain you want the family to have peace and heal. 'It is reprehensible to inject uncertainty into the public discourse and the minds of his family when what they want is the truth and justice.' A civil case is due to go before the courts in Belize at the conclusion of criminal proceedings against Hartin. While on bail awaiting trial, Hartin gave several interviews in print and on camera. She has also featured in the documentary One Bullet in Belize on US streaming service Discovery+. Hartin has described in graphic detail how she 'accidentally' shot the officer as they enjoyed a late-night drink. She said she 'wriggled out' from under the heavily built officer and was left covered in his blood. Hartin, 33, initially denied responsibility over the death of Superintendent Henry Jemmott but pleaded guilty to manslaughter by negligence at a hearing in April Hartin gets into a car after her sentencing for manslaughter by negligence at the Belize Supreme Court Her former partner Andrew Ashcroft has said Hartin was 'very drunk' on the night of the incident. Mr Ashcroft's claims contradicted Hartin's assertion she had only consumed a few drinks and was not intoxicated on the night Mr Jemmott was killed. The couple separated shortly after the incident and have since been embroiled in a bitter custody battle over their twin children. Mr Ashcroft, 45, said in his statement that they had attended a party at the Sunset Lounge until about 11pm on May 28, 2021. He said: 'Jasmine had been drinking heavily and had started consuming alcohol while getting ready to attend the party and continued to do so at the party.' Mr Ashcroft said after the couple arrived back at the hotel, Hartin asked him to join her for drinks with Mr Jemmott, who was staying at the resort. 'Jasmine appeared very drunk at this point,' he added, saying he declined and offered to stay with the children before going to bed. The father described the moment he was woken by staff to be informed of the shooting at 1am. 'I saw Jasmine standing in front of the Mata Rocks Pier covered in blood about 30 yards from me.' Hartin has denied the claims she was drunk. Child's mother died a few years before the incident Father, 45, in hospital with serious injuries The mother of a three-year-old boy allegedly stabbed to death by his father died a few years before the horrific incident unfolded, police say. Police and paramedics found the toddler's body inside a unit in Riverwood, southwest Sydney, alongside his father, 45, who had serious injuries believed to be self-inflicted. Emergency services were called to the property at 4pm on Wednesday after receiving a call from a woman related to the father. Police believe he allegedly stabbed his son before turning the knife on himself. Doctors at St George Hospital performed emergency surgery on the man, who is now in a stable condition under police guard. According to police, the little boy's mother died a few years ago, with the three-year-old believed to have been living with his father. Detectives will investigate the 'traumatic' incident as possible domestic violence. The man's partner, who wasn't at the scene, is speaking with police. Amber Macdonald, who lives in a nearby building, told Daily Mail Australia she was shocked to see police swarming the street. 'It was scary. I felt like I was in America,' she said. Police and paramedics found the toddler's body inside a unit in Riverwood, southwest Sydney, alongside his father, 45, who had serious injuries believed to be self-inflicted Police and paramedics found the toddler's body inside a unit in Riverwood alongside his father, 45, who had suffered serious injuries Bilal Fazli from the nearby Riverwood Community Centre arrived with several people who left bouquets of flowers and stuffed animals outside the unit block Devastated community members arrived at the scene on Thursday morning Several bouquets of flowers and a white teddy bear were left outside the unit block Ms Macdonald said she was 'devastated' to learn about the little boy's death. 'How can someone do that?' she said. Colleen Du-Rocher, who lives several floors above where the boy died, said she heard relatives of the father and son screaming when they arrived at the scene. 'I was shocked to hear a man was here with a child because this block is meant to be for 65s and over,' she said. Ms Du-Rocher said she was devastated by the boy's death, having 20 grandchildren and great grandchildren herself. 'I was horrified. I nearly fell off the roof,' she said. 'I was thinking 'imagine if I had all my little babies here [at the time]'.' Local resident William Robertson said the high amount of violence in the area had prompted him to buy a guard dog. 'There have been murders here in recent years,' he said. 'I want to walk out of my door with the hope of not being assaulted.' Bilal Fazli from the nearby Riverwood Community Centre arrived with several people who left bouquets of flowers and stuffed animals outside the unit block. 'We were all in the office only a couple of 100 meters away and we were all really devastated upon hearing the news,' he said. 'We thought the most appropriate thing we can do is just to show our condolences to the family, to the community, and anyone else that's affected. 'We just want to let everyone know that the community center provides counseling services and support to anyone who might need it. And you're more than welcome.' Amber Macdonald, who lives in a nearby building, said she was shocked to see police swarming the street. She said the incident made her feel like she was in 'America' Detectives will investigate the 'traumatic' incident as possible domestic violence It is understood police believe the 45-year-old man allegedly stabbed his son before turning the knife on himself (pictured, paramedics at the scene) Superintendent Sheridan Waldau said the incident was 'horrific'. 'Any kind of incident involving a small child is always a tragic incident and our condolences go out to the extended family of the child,' she said. 'Unfortunately, police attend domestic violence incidents all the time, we attend 140,000 incidents every year and unfortunately some of them end up in homicides. 'It's one of the jobs that we as police always hate going to.' Commander Waldau said officers involved were being offered help. She added that police had yet to speak to the boy's father in depth as he recovers from surgery and have only had 'very limited interactions with him'. Riverwood Community Centre has offered the local community support and the first responders support in the wake of the 'tragic' incident. 'In this difficult time, our thoughts are with the entire local community,' Councilor and Chair of Riverwood Community Centre, Karl Saleh said. 'This is indeed a tragic afternoon for the young boys family, it's a tragedy for our local community and first responders as well.' Colleen Du-Rocher, who lives several floors above where the boy died, said she heard relatives of the father and son screaming when they arrived at the scene Images from the scene show dozens of uniformed and plain-clothes officers and paramedics entering the unit as shocked onlookers stood on the pavement Riverwood locals were seen performing Tai Chi outside the apartment building on Thursday Images from the scene show dozens of uniformed and plain-clothes officers and paramedics entering the unit as shocked onlookers stood on the pavement. A crime scene has been established and officers from the homicide unit are investigating. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. A frantic mother has managed to free her little girl from the grasp of a stranger during a terrifying attempted abduction at a popular playground. The woman, 30, was watching her 18-month-old daughter play on an in-ground trampoline at Centenary Park in Yinnar in Victoria's Gippsland region south-east of Melbourne around 1.45pm on May 5. Police were told an unknown man approached the toddler, picked her up and started to walk away. The horrified mother chased after the man and managed to snatch the toddler free of his grasp. Detectives believe this man can assist with their inquiries into an attempted abduction The toddler sustained minor injuries, including scratches to her arms and foot. It is believed the man fled the scene and was last seen running towards the public toilets in the park. The woman bundled her child up and returned to her car where she called triple-0. Detectives have released an image of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries. He's described as Caucasian appearance, 182cm tall, slim build and believed to be aged in his 30s. He was wearing a grey hoodie and blue work pants. Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam footage or any other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. At least four people have been injured in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati after a shooting across multiple scenes Wednesday afternoon around 4:30 pm, according to police. One of the shooting victims was 18 years old while the remaining three were all juveniles, with one just 10 years old, authorities said. The other two wounded minors are 14 and 15. The incident took place in the city's Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, which has seen the most shootings of anywhere in the city so far in 2023 and has seen shootings rise year-upon-year, according to WCPO. All of those shot have been taken to local hospitals but their injuries are reportedly non-life threatening. Police told that the media that they believe that the victims were shot by multiple gunmen traveling in a black four-door Hyundai with tinted windows. Authorities did not say if they believe that the victims were targeted. At least four people have been injured in the Over the Rhine neighborhood of Cincinnati after a shooting across multiple scenes Wednesday afternoon, according to police One of the shooting victims was 18 years old while the remaining three were all juveniles, authorities said 'We as a city, I don't care who you are, you should not tolerate this kind of behavior in this city, in broad daylight. They are not going to get away with this,' Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge said. 'This will not be tolerated. Not in Cincinnati,' she added. A witness told WLWT that he heard the banging, which sounded like fireworks, and then he 'just saw people running.' Rishi Sunak will today tell European leaders to make stopping illegal migration a top priority. The Prime Minister will use a meeting of the new European Political Community to urge closer co-operation in securing the continent's borders. He will open negotiations on an agreement to return illegal immigrants to Moldova, where the summit is being held, and confirm that a similar deal with Georgia has come into force. Mr Sunak will also launch a partnership, including intelligence-sharing with Bulgaria, aimed at destroying the business model of the organised criminal gangs behind the people-smuggling trade. The Eastern European country is at the crossroads of two major routes as well as a key entry point for the dinghies used to cross the English Channel. A roundtable discussion will be led by the PM where he will stress the need to deal with immigration crime as well as supporting countries suffering from Russian aggression including not only Ukraine but also Moldova which is now home to thousands of refugees who have fled the war. Mr Sunak will tomorrow discuss with his Spanish counterpart Pedro Sanchez how they can keep up the momentum on tackling illegal migration The PM has already agreed a major deal with France to stop small boats Rishi Sunak will use a meeting of the new European Political Community to urge closer co-operation in securing the continent's borders A group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel after being rescued during a small boat incident in the Channel, May 19, 2023 Mr Sunak, who has made 'stopping the boats' before next year's general election one of his five pledges to voters, said last night: 'Europe is facing unprecedented threats at our borders. 'From Putin's utter contempt of other countries' sovereignty to the rise in organised immigration crime across our continent. 'We cannot address these problems without Europe's governments and institutions working closely together. 'The security of our borders must be top of the agenda. The UK will be at the heart of this international effort to stop the boats.' The EPC was proposed by French president Emmanuel Macron a year ago to improve co-operation between countries both within and outside of the EU, in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and met for the first time in Prague last October during Liz Truss's brief premiership. Britain will host a meeting of the forum in a year's time, following one in Spain this autumn. Mr Sunak will today discuss with his Spanish counterpart Pedro Sanchez how they can keep up the momentum on tackling illegal migration. The PM has already agreed a major deal with France to stop small boats and secured a returns agreement with Albania that has led to more than 1,000 Albanians being sent home. His flagship Illegal Migration Bill will prevent anyone who has entered the UK without authorisation from claiming asylum, and will instead mean they are detained then removed. However, Mr Sunak will tell today's gathering of almost 50 European leaders about the 'devastating humanitarian impact' of illegal migration, No 10 said, and will 'emphasise the need for all countries to grip this problem with a lawful and compass- ionate approach'. The number of small boat migrants who have crossed the Channel so far this year stands at just over 7,600 down 21 per cent on the same period last year. Official Home Office figures show 7,610 arrivals since January 1 excluding any unconfirmed number who reached Britain yesterday compared with 9,577 at the same point last year. Officials say it is too early to tell whether the decline is simply down to weather conditions. But if numbers are still down in one month's time, ministers may be able to claim that tough-talking policies combined with increased police activity against traffickers is beginning to have a deterrent effect. By the end of June last year, there had been more than 12,700 arrivals. The department's official projections set out a worst-case scenario of 85,000 migrants crossing the Channel this year, after a record 45,700 reached UK shores during 2022. A crucial ruling on the Rwanda asylum deal is due from the Court of Appeal within weeks. If judges decide the policy is lawful throwing out arguments made by the Public and Commercial Services trade union, a number of migrant charities and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees there is a possibility that removals flights to Africa could begin soon after. Home Office sources have indicated that charter flights to Kigali could begin even before the launch of any further appeal to the Supreme Court. Yesterday it emerged that the PCS union, which represents 16,000 Home Office workers, has threatened industrial action if they lose in the courts. Actor Armie Hammer says he's 'very grateful' after the Los Angeles County District Attorney announced that he will not be charged over claims of sexual assault after an ex-girlfriend previously accused him of raping her. Hammer, 36, posted a statement to his Instagram account Wednesday evening after a spokesperson LA DA George Gascon announced he wouldn't face charges due to a 'insufficient evidence.' 'I am very grateful to the District Attorney for conducting a thorough investigation and coming to the conclusion that I have stood by this entire time, that no crime was committed,' Hammer wrote. 'I look forward to beginning what will be a long, difficult process of putting my life back together now that my name is cleared.' The Social Network star has been under investigation for sexual assault since February 2021 after his ex-girlfriend, Effie Angelova, 26, accused him of 'violently' raping and abusing her in 2017. Actor Armie Hammer says he's 'very grateful' after the Los Angeles County District Attorney announced that he will not be charged over claims of sexual assault after an ex-girlfriend previously accused him of raping her Tiffiny Blacknell, Director of the DA's Bureau of Communications, said in a statement that they were not able to prove Angelova's claims. 'Sexual assault cases are often difficult to prove, which is why we assign our most experienced prosecutors to review them. In this case, those prosecutors conducted an extremely thorough review, but determined that at this time, there is insufficient evidence to charge Mr. Hammer with a crime,' she said. 'As prosecutors, we have an ethical responsibility to only charge cases that we can prove beyond a reasonable doubt. We know that it is hard for women to report sexual assault,' Blacknell added. She did say that the county would continue to provide support to alleged victims with services. 'Even when we cannot move forward with a prosecution, our victim service representatives will be available to those who seek our victim support services. Due to the complexity of the relationship and inability to prove a non-consensual, forcible sexual encounter we are unable to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.' He has denied the accusations of rape through his attorney and said all of his sexual encounters were 'completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance and mutually participatory'. DailyMail.com has contacted Hammer's attorney, Andrew Brettler, for a response to the DA's statement. Several other women came forward and accused Hammer of being interested in kinky sex and even cannibalism in the wake of Angelova's claims. LA DA George Gascon announced he wouldn't face charges due to a 'insufficient evidence' 'I am very grateful to the District Attorney for conducting a thorough investigation and coming to the conclusion that I have stood by this entire time, that no crime was committed,' Hammer wrote The Call Me By Your Name star was dropped by his personal publicist and former agency as well as multiple projects following the allegations. His ex-wife, Elizabeth Chambers, with whom Hammer has two children, Harper, 8, and Ford, 6, filed for divorce after ten years of marriage. Hammer also stepped down from a role in Jennifer Lopez's film Shotgun Wedding, but maintained his innocence. 'I'm not responding to these b******* claims but in light of the vicious and spurious online attacks against me, I cannot in good conscience now leave my children for four months to shoot a film in the Dominican Republic,' he said in a statement to the Daily Mail. The actor subsequently claimed he tried to commit suicide in the Cayman Islands following the backlash. 'I just walked out into the ocean and swam out as far as I could and hoped that either I drowned, or was hit by a boat, or eaten by a shark,' Hammer said. Angelova hit back, accusing Hammer of being 'manipulative' and trying to 'evoke sympathy'. She said he had told her the suicide story years before she spoke out, and was only sharing it publicly in an attempt to gain sympathy and silence his victims. The actor has admitted he was emotionally abusive towards his former partners, but blamed his actions on being traumatized by a youth pastor who allegedly sexually abused him when he was 13. The alleged crimes and scandals involving Hammer and generations of his wealthy family will be the subject of a true crime special. Armie's dad Michael Hammer (seen second from left) was allegedly embroiled in New York City 's biggest art fraud Hammer has consistently denied the allegations and has said all encounters were consensual Hammer, pictured her in a scene from the film Rebecca with co-star Lily James, was dropped by his agency, publicist and multiple projects amid the backlash The scandal began when the Instagram account House of Effie started leaking disturbing messages, said to be sent by him between 2016 and February 2020, that include conversations about BDSM, in addition to numerous sexual references to cannibalistic acts and blood-sucking. In one message, the actor allegedly writes to the woman: 'I am 100% a cannibal. I want to eat you.' 'F**k. That's scary to admit,' the message continues. 'I've never admitted that before.' Hammer's former partners Paige Lorenze and Courtney Vucekovich then also accused him of being physically and emotionally abusive while they were together. Lorenze told Page Six that the actor had carved the letter 'A' into her pelvis to brand her and then sucked the blood that oozed out. In March 2021, Angelova officially came forward with her attorney Gloria Allred, alleging: 'On April 24, 2017, Armie Hammer violently raped me for over four hours in Los Angeles, during which he repeatedly slapped my head against a wall bruising my face. 'He also committed other acts of violence against me to which I did not consent.' Angelova said she thought Hammer was 'going to kill' her and claimed he beat her feet during the alleged attack 'so they would hurt', according to Variety. The 26-year-old claimed she met Hammer on Facebook when she was 20, before falling in love with the actor. But she has since said she fell victim to 'manipulation tactics'. Model Paige Lorenze, a former professional skier turned Instagram mode, spoke of the 'deeply traumatic' four month relationship she had with Armie Hammer, which left her emotionally and physically scarred Lorenze said Hammer was fixated on biting her body, begging that she allow him to take lumps of flesh from her arm, before consuming them Using a sharp knife Hammer cut his first initial 'A' into her skin during a kinky sex game, which Lorenze insists got out of control Shortly after, the LAPD confirmed it was investigating the actor after a 'community member' came forward with an attorney on February 3, 2021, with a sexual assault claim. Hammer has continuously denied the allegations made against him. His lawyer has said Hammer's encounter with Angelova was 'completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance, and mutually participatory'. In a statement, the lawyer said: 'Effie's own correspondence with Mr. Hammer undermines and refutes her outrageous allegations. As recently as July 18, 2020, [she] sent graphic texts to Mr. Hammer telling him what she wanted him to do to her. 'Mr. Hammer responded, making it clear that he did not want to maintain that type of relationship with her. 'It was never Mr. Hammer's intention to embarrass or expose [Effie's] fetishes or kinky sexual desires, but she has now escalated this matter to another level by hiring a civil lawyer to host a public press conference. 'With the truth on his side, Mr. Hammer welcomes the opportunity to set the record straight. From day one, Mr. Hammer has maintained that all of his interactions with [Effie] and every other sexual partner of his for that matter have been completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance, and mutually participatory. '[Effie's] attention seeking and ill-advised legal bid will only make it more difficult for real victims of sexual violence to get the justice they deserve.' Amazon paid the equivalent of just 3 per cent tax on its UK revenues last year despite taking in billions in sales from British shoppers. Its 2022 tax total, including national insurance contributions, corporation tax and business rates, came to 781million. This was well below the 24billion it made in the UK last year and equates to a tax rate of around 3.3 per cent. Amazon did not disclose its profits, however. The UK is incorporated into its international division, which racked up a loss of 6.2billion last year. Paul Monaghan, head of the Fair Tax Foundation, said much of the revenues from Amazon's UK arm continued to be 'shunted' to a loss-making subsidiary business in the tax haven of Luxembourg. The ecommerce giant paid just 3.3 per cent tax in 2022 'Over the last decade, Amazon has grown its market domination across the globe on the back of income that is largely untaxed allowing it to unfairly undercut local businesses that take a more responsible approach,' he argued. READ MORE: Amazon is making a HUGE change to Alexa's voice - here's what it means for your smart assistant Amazon released its 5th generation Echo Dot smart speaker (pictured) last year Advertisement Amazon has repeatedly refused to disclose how much profit it makes in the UK and how much corporation tax it pays on this. It has also sparked outrage for its use of UK tax benefits that have allowed it to avoid racking up a large bill to HM Revenue and Customs. Last summer, it was revealed that Amazon's core British business, Amazon UK Services, was handed a tax credit of over 1million in 2021 despite its profits soaring by 60 per cent. The firm also benefited from the Government's 'super deduction' scheme, which was introduced by Rishi Sunak during his time as Chancellor and ran for two years before expiring at the end of April. It allowed the company to offset 130 per cent of its investment spending on items such as machinery and resulted in Amazon having to pay no tax in 2021. Amazon, which has 75,000 permanent employees in Britain, said its business helps 'fund public services and infrastructure throughout the country'. It added that it invested more than 12billion in the UK last year, taking its total investments since 2010 to over 56billion. A three-year-old child was found dead after having with police believing he had been stabbed by his father. Emergency services were called to a south-west Sydney unit complex on on Washington Avenue, Riverwood, by a female relative of the victim at 4pm today. The three-year-old's body was found by police and paramedics inside the unit, alongside his father, 45, who had suffered serious injuries. It is understood police believe the man allegedly stabbed his son before turning the knife on himself. Doctors at St George Hospital performed emergency surgery on the man and he is now in a stable condition under police gaurd. About 4pm today emergency services were called to a unit complex in Riverwood, southern Sydney, following reports of a concern for welfare. They found a three-year-old child dead inside the apartment NSW Ambulance paramedics treated a 45-year-old man at the scene. He was taken to hospital in a critical condition (pictured) The child's mother passed away a couple of years ago, according to police. 'This is obviously a horrific incident... any kind of incident involving a small child is always a tragic incident and our condolences go out to the extended family of the child,' said Superintendent Sheridan Waldau. 'Unfortunately, police attend domestic violence incidents all the time, we attend 140,000 incidents every year and unfortunately some of them end up in homicides. 'It's one of the jobs that we as police always hate going to.' Commander Waldau said it was a very 'traumatic' job for police to attend and the officers involved were being offered help. She added that police had yet to speak to the man in depth as he recovers from his surgery. 'There are very limited interactions with him at this stage,' Commander Waldau said. Some of the boy's family members arrived at the scene and were 'very upset' by the incident. They are already speaking to police. Some of them were so distressed that they reportedly had to be treated by paramedics. A crime scene has been established and officers from the homicide unit are investigating. Footage from the street outside the apartment showed a fleet of police cars and ambulances rushing to the scene, as horrified onlookers stood behind a police cordon while a helicopter circled overhead. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. King Charles will miss Prince Harry's visit to London next week because he is going on a five-day solo hiking trip to Transylvania. The Duke of Sussex will return to the High Court early next month as he sues Mirror Group Newspapers over allegations of phone hacking. The monarch's five-day stay in the Transylvanian countryside will coincide with his Harry's rare visit, meaning father and son are unlikely to meet. It follows Harry's flying visit for his father's Coronation, which saw him spend just 28 hours and 42 minutes in the UK before flying home to California. The King will travel to Romania next week for his first overseas trip since being crowned on May 6. He will not be accompanied by Queen Camilla, who will remain at Highgrove, their Gloucestershire residence. Prince Harry (seen at the Coronation earlier this month) will be in London next week but will not see his father, who will be in Transylvania King Charles hiking on his annual trip to the Transylvanian countryside last year The monarch owns at least 10 properties in Romania, and it has become an annual tradition for Charles to visit the country for a walking holiday. His trip will take place over five days next week, reports the Telegraph. READ MORE - Why King Charles will find true peace alone in Transylvania, writes BETH HALE Advertisement In the past, Charles has spoken fondly of the country and his time in the Carpathian Mountains, saying the land is 'in his blood'. He said during his visit last June: 'There is a sense of age-old continuity here. A virtuous circle where man and nature are in balance.' Charles has familial ties with Transylvania, thought to be a descendant of Vlad the Impaler - also known as Vlad Dracula - who claimed to have killed 23,000 people during battles against the Ottoman Empire. The real-life Dracula's name is said to have been the inspiration for Bram Stoker's 1897 novel. The monarch's maternal great-great-great grandmother, Klaudia Rhedey, was also born and brought up in the region. Klaudia, a Hungarian speaker, married into German royalty and was known as the Princess of Teck. Her granddaughter, Queen Mary, was wife to George V and Charles's great-grandmother. The King owns ten properties throughout the Romanian region, which he bought in the late 1990s. Pictured: His holiday home in Viscri The monarch has spoken fondly of the country, saying it's 'in his blood' Charles bought his estate in Valea Zalanului, Szeklerland, in the 1990s and now rents it out as a nature retreat to those wanting to explore the Zalan Valley and the surrounding mountains. READ MORE - US government will appear in court over Prince Harry's visa application after his drug revelations in memoir Fact-box text Advertisement The guest house he will stay at is situated near to the village of Viscri, and is decorated with traditional antique Transylvanian furniture and textiles. There are no televisions or radios in any of the rooms, just books, and guests are expected to dine together. Daily activities on offer include horse riding, walks through a wildflower meadow named after Prince George, and trips to the nearby mineral pools. The King has visited Romania numerous times and set up the Prince of Wales Foundation Romania to support the development of farming, traditional skills and the preservation of historic buildings. Prices range from about 100 to 300 a night depending on the size of room and whether or not guests have chosen full or half-board. Tutankhamun stares at us through the millennia after scientists rebuilt his face, revealing a pharaoh that looks like more like a 'young student' than a king. His features were brought to life by an international team of academics from Brazil, Australia and Italy using a digital model of his mummified skull. The reconstruction reveals the youthful and 'delicate' visage of a king who was still a teenager when he died more than three thousand years ago. Brazilian graphics expert Cicero Moraes, who co-authored the new study, said: 'To me he looks like a young man with a delicate face. 'Looking at him, we see more of a young student than a politician full of responsibilities, which makes the historical figure even more interesting.' The famous 'boy king' was discovered along with dozens of incredible treasures by British archaeologist Howard Carter in November 1922 in Egypt's Valley of Kings. Slide me Tutankhamun stares at us through the millennia after scientists rebuilt his face, revealing a pharaoh that looks like more like a 'young student' than a king. Above: The CGI image compared with the pharaoh's actual skull Because the international team did not have direct access to the pharaoh's skull, completing the new model was especially challenging. Thankfully, previous studies had already recorded the skull measurements, and published reference images. Mr Moraes said: 'It was a detective work, where traces of information were concatenated [linked together] in order to provide us with a three-dimensional model of the skull. 'With the proportion data and some important cephalometric measurements, it was possible to take the digital skull of a virtual donor and adjust it so that it became the skull of Tutankhamun.' From there, Mr Moraes said, they recreated 'the size of the lips, the position of the eyeballs, the height of the ears and the front size of the nose'. 'All of these projections are based on statistical studies that were performed on CT scans of living individuals from several different ancestries,' he said. Markers were then applied to the skull indicating the thickness of soft tissues in various places, using data from modern Egyptians as a guide. With these and other techniques, the face was gradually rebuilt into an objective reconstruction. Subjective elements like eye colour were then added to further humanise the subject. It's not the first time scientists have tried to rebuild the likeness of the young pharaoh another attempt was made in 2005. Michael Habicht, an Egyptologist and archaeologist at Flinders University in Australia, who co-authored the new study, noted the startling resemblance between the two reconstructions. He said: 'Our reconstruction is amazingly close to the one made by a French team a few years ago. 'It also corresponds with the ancient depictions of Tutankhamun, especially with the head on the lotus flower from his tomb treasure.' Because the team did not have direct access to the pharaoh's skull, completing the new model was especially challenging. Above: Tutankhamun's mummified head with the skull inside The experts used previously available reference images and measurements to recreate the boy king's face and head. They also used the digital skull of a virtual donor and then adjusted it The team said a lot of 'detective work' was involved to create the incredible CGI depiction Markers were applied to the skull indicating the thickness of soft tissues in various places, using data from modern Egyptians as a guide. With these and other techniques, the face was gradually rebuilt into an objective reconstruction The project to recreate Tutankhamun's face and head is seen progressing in a series of scans A depiction of the young pharaoh as a child which was found in his tomb The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in November 1922 made headlines around the world. More than 5,000 items were found inside, including a solid gold coffin, face mask, thrones, furniture, food and wine. Pictured: A colourised image of Howard Carter examining the pharaoh's coffin Gold and lapis lazuli funerary mask of Tutankhamun that was found in his tomb is seen on display Mr Moraes is confident they've created a good likeness of the pharaoh in life. He said: 'Faced with the studies we have developed with data from living people, comparing projections with actual measurements, we are confident that there is good compatibility with the real face in the general structure. 'I entered as a person who appreciated ancient Egypt and left now as a true fan of this impressive culture, full of determination to study more and bring to light other pieces of its fantastic history.' Tutankhamun, who was worshipped as a god in his lifetime, died in 1323 BC and was succeeded by his adviser, Ay. Mr Moraes, Dr Habicht, and their colleagues Francesco Galassi, Elena Varotto, and Thiago Beaini are publishing their study in the Italian Journal of Anatomy and Embryology. Howard Carter is seen examining the sarcophagus of Tutankhamun inside his tomb, which was more than 20ft underground Howard Carter is seen pointing down towards the entrance to Tutankhamun's tomb Carter initially viewed Tutankhamun's tomb through a small hole made in masonry after two days of digging through a rubble-filled passage. Holding up a candle, he looked inside and gave what became a famous response to Carnarvon's impatient question: 'Can you see anything?' 'Yes,' he said. 'Wonderful things.' The tomb - which included four rooms - was filled with more than 5,000 royal treasures, including a dagger made a from meteorite. They had lain untouched for more than 3,000 years. The chamber also contained three coffins nestled within one another, the innermost of which contained the Boy King's body. It's not the first time scientists have tried to rebuild the likeness of the young pharaoh another attempt was made in 2005 (above) One of the 'godfathers' of artificial intelligence (AI) has admitted he feels 'lost' over his life's work. The Nobel Prize-winning computer scientist, Professor Yoshua Bengio, has urged that anyone building AI products should be registered and receive ethical training. This week, he joined dozens of experts who penned an open letter, warning that AI could lead to the extinction of humanity, and should be a 'global priority' alongside catastrophic events like nuclear war and pandemics. 'It is challenging, emotionally speaking, for people who are inside (the AI sector),' Professor Bengio told the BBC. 'You could say I feel lost. But you have to keep going and you have to engage, discuss, encourage others to think with you.' The Nobel Prize-winning computer scientist, Professor Yoshua Bengio (pictured) has urged that anyone building AI products should now be registered and receive ethical training READ MORE: AI should be 'a global priority on par with pandemics and nuclear war' The letter was signed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, creator of ChatGPT Advertisement The letter, put forward by the Centre for AI Safety, was signed by senior bosses at major tech giants like Google, DeepMind and Anthropic. Another ground-breaking scientist, Geoffrey Hinton, signed the letter too, as he sensationally resigned from Google earlier this month. He warned that human extinction could be on the horizon if AI got into the wrong hands, adding that it had progressed far quicker than anticipated. In the face of these concerns, Professor Bengio again urged that tracking the growth of AI is key to ensuring its uses are safely controlled. He continued: 'Governments need to track what they're doing, they need to be able to audit them, and that's just the minimum thing we do for any other sector like building aeroplanes or cars or pharmaceuticals. 'We also need the people who are close to these systems to have a kind of certification we need ethical training here. Computer scientists don't usually get that, by the way.' Last week, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that 'guard rails' are needed to protect against 'existential threats' while also driving AI innovation. Although many have raised concerns of AI-generated disinformation and its potential uses for weapon development, it can accurately perform life-saving tasks within the medical field. AI apps such as Midjourney and ChatGPT have gone viral on social media sites, with users posting fake images of celebrities and politicians and students using ChatGPT to write essays Last week, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also said that 'guard rails' are needed to protect against 'existential threats' while driving innovation in artificial intelligence Geoffrey Hinton, 75, who is credited as the 'Godfather of Artificial Technology', said that a part of him now regrets helping to make the systems. He is pictured above speaking at a summit hosted by media company Thomson Reuters in Toronto, Canada, in 2017 READ MORE: AI is coming for your JOB: Tech could have as big an impact on careers as the Industrial Revolution Sir Patrick Vallance answering questions at the House of Commons Advertisement Today, Sunak retweeted the Centre for AI Safety's statement, commenting: 'The government is looking very carefully at this. 'Last week I stressed to AI companies the importance of putting guardrails in place so development is safe and secure. But we need to work together. That's why I raised it at the @G7 and will do so again when I visit the US.' Professor Bengio added that it's 'never too late to improve' amidst the current fears. 'It's exactly like climate change,' he said. 'We've put a lot of carbon in the atmosphere. And it would be better if we hadn't, but let's see what we can do now.' The professor's thoughts were also acknowledged by Sir Nigel Shabolt, chairman of the London-based Open Data Institute. While he acknowledged that AI is a 'force for good', Sir Shabolt stressed that existential challenges are being faced. He told the BBC: 'We don't quite know how to understand the absolute consequences of this technology, we all have in common a recognition that we need to innovate responsibly, that we need to think about the ethnical dimension, the values that these systems embody. 'We have to understand that AI is a huge force for good. We have to appreciate, not the very worst, (but) there are lots of existential challenges we face our technologies are on a par with other things that might cut us short, whether it's climate or other challenges we face. 'But it seems to me that if we do the thinking now, in advance, if we do take the steps that people like Yoshua is arguing for, that's a good first step, it's very good that we've got the field coming together to understand that this is a powerful technology that has a dark and a light side, it has a yin and a yang, and we need lots of voices in that debate.' Unidentified metallic orb UFOs have been spotted 'all over the world', a Pentagon chief admitted today during NASA's first-ever public hearing into the phenomenon. Physicist Dr Sean Kirkpatrick, director of the Pentagon's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), said: 'We see these ['metallic orbs'] all over the world, and we see these making very interesting apparent maneuvers.' Dr Kirkpatrick presented AARO's latest findings to NASA's independent team of scientists and other experts who have been tasked with studying the UFO phenomenon which has become increasingly less stigmatized following several high-profile congressional hearings and military sightings. Scientists and policymakers from NASA's independent panel also discussed their own proposed recommendations to the federal space agency, including: an active effort to remove the stigma surrounding UAP research, as well as a hunt for alien 'artifacts' within our solar system. Meanwhile, it was also revealed at today's NASA hearing that the space agency will work closely with the Pentagon's official UFO investigators on top secret UFO cases. Dr Kirkpatrick said that the Pentagon is closely collaborating with 'NASA embeds,' scientists who have been cleared for work on classified UAP cases where their expertise could help military investigators identify the mysterious craft or events. NASA's independent UAP study group, as well as officials from both the Pentagon and Federal Aviation Administration's UAP investigative teams, will present their latest UFO findings today While playing a 2022 military UFO video taken by an MQ-9 Reaper drone in the Mid East, AARO director Sean Kirkpatrick told the NASA panel that 'We see these ['metallic orbs'] all over the world, and we see these making very interesting apparent maneuvers' Kirkpatrick added that AARO plans to deploy 'dedicated sensors for typical UAP' sightings, equipment independent of the existing military defense sensors that have thus far picked up UAP evidence in the course of their normal duties. Both NASA's head of science, the space and atmospheric physicist Dr. Nicky Fox, and AARO's director, Dr. Kirkpatrick, also took time to rebuke unnamed individuals for harassing members of the NASA panel. Both said that these attitudes, online and among officialdom, have contributed to the continuing social stigma surrounding UAP. NASA UAP study group member Karlin Toner, senior advisor for data policy integration of the FAA's Office of Aviation Policy and Plans, recommended that the space agency work to 'make it safer to explore data' for any scientists facing the 'negative stigma' surrounding UAP. Toner suggested that the independent panel 'consider advising NASA to more fully assess the cultural and social barriers to studying and reporting UAP,' to effectively work hard to end the stigma on UAP research among the scientific community. NASA, she said, should 'implement a plan to leverage its brand image to start removing these obstacles.' Ultimately, however, as the chair of NASA's independent UAP panel, theoretical astrophysicist David Spergel, described it, their group's main purpose is to answer this one question: 'How can NASA contribute to understanding the nature of UAPs?' He summarized the current state of data collection efforts on UAP as 'unsystematic' and 'fragmented across various agencies' often using instruments that were fit for their security or safety mandate, but 'uncalibrated for scientific data collection.' NASA's study group of 16 experts ranging from physicists to astronauts was formed last June to examine unclassified UFO sightings and from civilian government and commercial sectors AARO director Kirkpatrick presented one brand new, but resolved UAP case in which a P-3 Orion surveillance aircraft misidentified three commercial aircraft. The commercial planes were moving on an established flight corridor, but looked like a closer and weirder trio of UAP AARO's Kirkpatrick also presented fresh statistics on the Pentagon's UAP findings to the NASA panel, adding to data he first reported to the Senate's Armed Services Committee this April Spergel added that some of the work done in this realm did achieve the admirable status of 'citizen science.' He cited previous anomalies, like the fantastic accounts of upward-going red lightning, or sprites, which had been first reported by shocked pilots and initially discounted by atmospheric scientists. 'If it's something that's anomalous. That makes it interesting and worthy of study,' Spergel said. But study group member Mike Gold, NASA's former associate administrator for Space Policy and Partnerships, went even further. Gold, currently with the private space infrastructure firm Redwire, called on the agency to institute 'a permanent office within NASA to support this activity' the serious study of UAP. NASA's study group, an assemblage of 16 experts ranging from physicists to astronauts, was formed last June to examine unclassified UFO sightings and other data collected from civilian government and commercial sectors. The study group represents the first such inquiry ever conducted by the US space agency into a subject the government had previously consigned to the purview of military and national security officials, when accorded respect or attention at all. Today, these parallel NASA and Pentagon efforts, both undertaken with some semblance of transparency, mark a turning point for in the government's public stance on UFOs or UAP. After decades spent deflecting, debunking and discrediting sightings of unidentified flying objects, or UFOs, dating back to the 1940s, Pentagon officials now say that their recent push to investigate such sightings has led to hundreds of new reports that are under examination. Speaking to the NASA panel today, AARO director Kirkpatrick said that roughly 2 to 5 percent of AARO's current database of approximately 800 UAP cases constituted real and baffling anomalies. Kirkpatrick's report, as well as a presentation by an advisor to the Federal Aviation Administration's Air Traffic Surveillance Services Office, Mike Freie, constituted the first major presentations during today's public panel by NASA's UAP study group. While NASA's science mission was seen by some as promising a more open-minded approach to a topic long treated as taboo by the defense establishment, the US space agency made it known from the start that it was hardly leaping to any conclusions. 'There is no evidence UAPs are extraterrestrial in origin,' NASA said in announcing the panel's formation last June. In its more recent statements, the agency presented a new potential wrinkle to the UAP acronym itself, referring to it as an abbreviation for 'unidentified anomalous phenomena.' This suggested that sightings other than those that appeared airborne may be included. Still, NASA in announcing Wednesday's meeting, said the space agency defines UAPs 'as observations of events in the sky that cannot be identified as aircraft or known natural phenomena from a scientific perspective.' There were indications, however, that NASA may expand its interest in the subject far beyond Earth's atmosphere. One member of the panel, astrobiologist David Grinspoon, an advisor to NASA on space exploration strategy, offered much more cosmic recommendations than his peers during today's public meeting. Grinspoon noted that he and his colleagues' search for 'biosignatures' and 'technosignatures' of extraterrestrial life out in the wider universe could play a significant role by assisting and collaborating with the investigation of local UAP. 'While at present there is no evidence suggesting an extraterrestrial source for UAPs,' Grinspoon said, 'these existing NASA programs are relevant to the question.' Grinspoon told the panel that it would be 'plausible' to find 'extraterrestrial artifacts' made by an alien civilization in our solar system. NASA, he said, should include attempts to search and identify any such artifacts in future planetary exploration missions. Advertisement Australia is brimming with truly astonishing scenery - and luckily for visitors there are plenty of places to stay that offer amazing views of it all. Here we round up 20 places to stay across the country where your room key unlocks breathtaking panoramas. Some of these unique retreats offer unrivalled views of iconic Australian landmarks such as the Uluru rock formation or the Sydney Opera House. Some are housed in unconventional structures, from an Airbnb in an 'enchanted cave' to a transparent pod in the Blue Mountains. And some are perched on remote Australian islands, such as a hideaway that lies on the wallaby-filled King Island and an oceanside bolthole on remote Lord Howe Island. Scroll down for the inside scoop on stays that offer uniquely Aussie views... LONGITUDE 131 HOTEL, RED CENTRE, NORTHERN TERRITORY: Australia's Red Centre is home to some of the world's most epic rock formations, including the Uluru monolith, and the red domes of Kata Tjuta. And guests of this deluxe eco-camping hotel can revel in uninterrupted views of both sites from bed, with the picture above showing one of the views of Uluru that's on offer. Guides are on hand to lead groups on outings to these breathtaking natural wonders, imparting knowledge of the natural and cultural heritage of the Red Centre along the way. Visit longitude131.com.au PUMPHOUSE POINT RETREAT, TASMANIA: This unique adults-only retreat is made up of several buildings at Lake St Clair, which is the Southern Hemisphere's deepest lake, reaching a depth of more than 700 feet (215 metres). The main building is a 1930s pumphouse that sits at the end of a 240m- (787ft) long walkway that juts over the water and encompasses 12 guest rooms, lounges, an honesty bar and a library. Tripadvisor reviewer 'Linda C ' described the views from her bedroom as 'mesmerising'. Visit pumphousepoint.com.au KINGS CREEK STATION, WATARRKA, NORTHERN TERRITORY: Kings Creek Station offers glamping experiences where stunning views of the George Gill Range mountains come as standard. Pictured above is the cluster of tents that form the station's 'Drovers Dream' site, with each tent coming equipped with ensuite bathrooms, a fire pit and barbeque. Another amazing view is available 36 kilometres (22 miles) away - of the spectacular Kings Canyon, also known as Watarrka. Visit kingscreekstation.com.au SKY PODS HOLIDAY RENTALS, CAPE OTWAY, VICTORIA: Lined with floor-to-ceiling windows, these holiday rentals rest on a 200-acre wildlife refuge on Cape Otway, a rugged cape in southern Victoria. During your stay, marvel over the vista of the Southern Ocean and the surrounding coastal rainforest, which is being restored as a habitat for koalas and birds. Only accessible via a handful of walking trails, the houses are truly off-grid. Other beauty spots such as sandy Station Beach and the spring-fed Rainbow Falls are all within walking distance. Visit skypods.com.au RAWNSLEY PARK STATION RETREAT, IKARA-FLINDERS RANGES NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH AUSTRALIA: This remote retreat overlooks the southern side of Wilpena Pound - a spectacular natural amphitheatre of mountains that lies in the heart of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park in the Outback. Take your pick from a range of accommodation options within the retreat, which is comprised of a private homestead, luxury villas and a caravan park. The retreat can also arrange a 'heli-camping' experience that includes a helicopter ride over the park and a night spent camping under the stars. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos and emus throughout your stay. Visit rawnsleypark.com.au BUBBLETENT AUSTRALIA RETREAT, CAPERTREE VALLEY, NEW SOUTH WALES: Set on a working farm, this trio of transparent 'bubbletent' pods overlooks the Capertee Valley canyon near the town of Running Stream in New South Wales. Inside the pods, you'll find a queen bed dressed with goose-down pillows and an adjoining ensuite bathroom, while outside there's a romantic wood-fired hot tub that's ideal for watching sunsets and stargazing. To reach the site, it's a three-hour drive from Sydney through the sprawling Blue Mountains. Visit bubbletentaustralia.com MOUNT STURGEON COTTAGES, NEAR DUNKELD TOWN, VICTORIA: These holiday cottages, part of the nearby Royal Mail Hotel, are set within the serene, 91-hectare Mount Sturgeon Biodiversity Reserve. Guests are greeted each morning with a view of the Mount Sturgeon (Wurgarri) peak. By day, take part in a native wildlife conservation tour and encounter native species such as the eastern quoll marsupial. Visit royalmail.com.au TREEHOUSE AIRBNB, NEAR THE TOWN OF BILPIN, NEW SOUTH WALES: This unique rental promises a back-to-nature experience complete with simply stunning vistas of the Blue Mountains rainforest through floor-to-ceiling windows. The listing advises: Stargazing is a popular pastime, so check the meteor shower guide for the best times to watch. Airbnb reviewer Rick wrote: 'No picture can describe how amazing the view is there.' Visit airbnb.com.au KITTAWA LODGE, KING ISLAND, TASMANIA: Watch wallabies hop past your bedroom with a stay at Kittawa Lodge on the western coast of King Island, a rugged isle off the coast of mainland Tasmania. You might also spot the island's resident wallaby population grazing as you bathe in the retreat's concrete outdoor tubs. Choose between two open-plan rentals on the site, both of which offer panoramic views from every room and sleek furnishings. Visit kittawalodge.com PARK HYATT SYDNEY, NEW SOUTH WALES: Check into a suite at the Park Hyatt Sydney and you'll be rewarded with a direct view of the iconic Sydney Opera House. To turn up the luxury levels a notch, opt for the expansive Opera Suite - it boasts six private balconies that overlook the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House as well as a swish dining space for up to eight dinner guests. Visit hyatt.com CAMEL BEACH HOUSE AIRBNB, NEAR VENUS BAY, EYRE PENINSULA, SOUTH AUSTRALIA: This rental, perched on a 250-acre site on South Australias Eyre Peninsula, has direct access to a private beach, so you can dip your toes in the Southern Ocean. The house is described in the listing as a rustic modern nest inspired by the iconic wild west fishermans shack, and is packed with books, games and artwork. Airbnb reviewer Alan praised it for its 'fabulous views from every angle'. Visit airbnb.com.au CAPELLA LODGE, LORD HOWE ISLAND: This lodge lies on the Unesco-listed Lord Howe Island, a tiny crescent-shaped isle in the Tasman Sea that's known for its distinctive flora and birdlife. And it's never crowded, with just 400 people allowed to visit at any one time. The property houses nine contemporary suites, which offer a panorama of the island's towering twin peaks, Mounts Gower and Lidgbird. Tripadvisor reviewer 'Elise E' wrote: 'The view is second to none.' Lord Howe Island is reached from mainland Australia via a two-hour flight from Sydney. Visit capellalodge.com.au THE GHAN, ADELAIDE TO DARWIN: Witness the otherworldly landscapes of Australia's Northern Territory via the Ghan Railway as it winds its way northbound from Adelaide, through Australia's Red Centre and the tropical north of the country, before finishing its journey in Darwin. Passengers can enjoy excursions throughout the 3,000km (1,864-mile) voyage - among others, there are outings to the domes of Kata Tjuta and the stunning Nitmiluk gorge. Elegant private cabins and attentive service are an added bonus. Visit journeybeyondrail.com.au HAYMAN ISLAND RESORT, WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS, QUEENSLAND: This holiday resort lies on Hayman Island, the most northerly of Queensland's famously photogenic Whitsunday Islands. From its hillside perch, the retreat offers a glorious panorama of the Coral Sea - guests can even drink in sea views from their own private pool in the resort's top-tier suites. Visit haymanisland.intercontinental.com LADY MUSGRAVE HQ, DEPARTS FROM BUNDABERG, QUEENSLAND: For unique views of the Great Barrier Reef, camp overnight on the Lady Musgrave HQ, a three-level pontoon positioned in the reef lagoon off the coast of Lady Musgrave Island. Guests arrive on the pontoon via a catamaran transfer from the coastal city of Bundaberg. There's a luxury glamping set-up on the deck as well as bunks in the pontoon's underwater observatory. Spend your day snorkelling among the vibrant coral and sea life of the lagoon, and when the sun sets, set off on a night kayak tour to experience the reef at its most enigmatic. Visit ladymusgraveexperience.com.au DAINTREE ECOLODGE, DAINTREE RAINFOREST, QUEENSLAND: The Daintree Ecolodge offers 15 eco-friendly bayans (treehouses) immersed in the canopy of the Daintree Rainforest in North Queensland, thought to be the worlds oldest rainforest - its millions of years older than the Amazon. Guests can admire the Daintree Ecolodge's private waterfall and can soak in their own private bathtub, which overlooks the rainforests unique flora and fauna. Visit daintree-ecolodge.com.au ENCHANTED CAVE AIRBNB, NEAR BILPIN, NEW SOUTH WALES: Take in dreamy views of Australias Blue Mountains from this quirky Airbnb, which has been built into the top of a natural rock platform near the town of Bilpin. To enter, guests walk through a round wooden door that wouldn't be out of place in Hobbiton, a filming location for The Lord of the Rings trilogy, the listing notes. Visit airbnb.co.uk WANDER HOLIDAY RENTALS, KANGAROO ISLAND, SOUTH AUSTRALIA: These four luxurious holiday rentals are perched on the northern bluff of the Kangaroo Island coast, overlooking Snelling Beach. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows and the outdoor bathtubs lend front-row views of the islands wildlife - youre in with a good chance of spotting native kangaroos. Visit wander.com.au HAMPTONS ON THE HILL AIRBNB, AIRLIE BEACH, WHITSUNDAY REGION, QUEENSLAND: Revel in amazing views of the Whitsunday Islands from the bedrooms of this Airbnb, which lies in the coastal town of Airlie Beach. You can fire up the rentals barbecue and spend the day floating in its showstopper infinity pool, or if you fancy a saltwater dip, it's just a 10-minute walk to the nearest beach. Visit airbnb.co.uk SAFFIRE FREYCINET LODGE, TASMANIA: Occupying a stunning spot on the eastern coast of Tasmania, this luxury lodge offers sweeping views of Great Oyster Bay and The Hazards mountains. Take your pick from 20 suites, which are designed to help you to 'find connection with the environment, according to the lodge. Tripadvisor reviewer 'Lookforgrace' wrote: 'Honestly, there was barely a spot in the entire place that didn't have an amazing view.' Visit saffire-freycinet.com.au Advertisement These talented photographers are reaching for the stars. Their work has been awarded in the annual Milky Way Photographer of the Year competition run by the photography blog Capture the Atlas. Selected from more than 3,000 photographs, this year's 25 winning images were captured everywhere from Western Australia's Pinnacle Desert to the Wind River Range mountains of Wyoming. Capture the Atlas says: 'Photographing the Milky Way is a marvellous experience. Modern cameras can capture vibrant details and colours in the night sky beyond what our eyes can see. However, what really matters in any great image is the photographer behind the camera - the idea, plan, and creativity to bring the image to life.' Sharing tips with those hoping to hone their astrophotography skills, Capture the Atlas notes that the Milky Way season ranges from February to October in the Northern Hemisphere and from January to November in the Southern Hemisphere. The best time to see and photograph the Milky Way is usually between May and June on both hemispheres, it reveals. Capture the Atlas adds: 'Besides the timing, the other requirement for seeing the Milky Way is a dark sky that is far away from light pollution. Its always recommended to get away from light-polluted areas like cities and to visit preferably areas at higher elevations.' Keep scrolling to see the illuminating pictures that charmed the contest's judges... This ethereal photograph shows the night sky over Lake Tekapo on New Zealand's South Island. Photographer Tom Rae recalls: 'Midway through my Milky Way panorama, a faint glow appeared on the horizon my first aurora! What followed was a spectacular light show of flowing beams and vibrant colours. The image also showcases airglow, a wave-like pattern of red and green caused by ionized molecules in our atmosphere. But the true focus remains the Milky Way galaxy gracefully spanning the sky, accompanied by the Magellanic Clouds - its smaller satellite galaxies, hovering above the aurora' Photographer Larryn Rae captured this astonishing image in the Southern Alps, a mountain range on New Zealand's South Island. Rae recalls: 'This was some of the craziest airglow I have ever seen! Airglow is when atoms get charged and excited in the upper atmosphere by the sun and emit this wonderful colour and cloud-like pattern' The Milky Way over Aunqueospese Castle in the Spanish province of Avila is beautifully captured in this picture by Ivan Ferrero. He reveals: 'This castle is steeped in legends of forbidden love' This 360-degree time-blended panorama, captured in Bulgaria, shows us what the night sky would look like if we could see two Milky Way arches side by side, photographer Mihail Minkov reveals. He says: 'This is practically impossible since they are part of a whole and are visible at different times of the day.' The photographer continues: 'The two arches of the Milky Way represent one object in the starry sky, with part of it visible in winter and part of it in summer. Therefore, they are called the winter and summer arches. The winter arch includes objects that we can observe from October to March, primarily associated with the constellation Orion. On the other hand, the summer arch features the Milky Way core, visible from March to September, which is the most characteristic and luminous part of the night sky, representing the centre of our galaxy' LEFT: This enchanting picture by Isabella Tabacchi shows a rock formation in Iran's Lut Desert under the Milky Way. Tabacchi notes that she successfully captured 'a green airglow under the Milky Way' in the frame. RIGHT: Photographer Marcin Zajac explains that the 'strange, cream-coloured rock towers' in this picture, captured near California's Mono Lake, are called 'tufas'. He says: 'They formed when underwater springs that are rich in calcium mixed with the waters of the lake, which are rich in carbonates. The resulting reaction formed limestone. Over time, the build up of limestone formed towers, and when the lakes water level dropped, the towers became exposed' 'This picture was taken in one of the darkest places in the world: Socotra, a mystical island located in the Indian Ocean between Yemens mainland and Somalia.' So says photographer Violeta Lazareva, adding that the sight of the island's endemic dragon blood trees under the Milky Way 'blew her mind' when she was there This breathtaking picture of the Milky Way was captured near the town of Cafayate in Argentinia's Salta province. Photographer Gonzalo Santile says: 'In the image, you can see the rock formations of this area known as Las Ventanas (The Windows) and the small cacti that are the only vegetation here.' The photographer notes that he successfully captured 'the reddish colours of the nebulae [clouds of dust and gas in interstellar space]' in the frame LEFT: 'It was the first and only time I saw such a bright meteor,' photographer Roksolyana Hilevych says of the moment she captured this picture on the Spanish island of Tenerife. She says that the meteor 'lit up everything around it, making it seem like daytime for a few seconds'. The photographer recalls: 'Luckily, at the moment [the meteor] appeared, I was photographing the core of the Milky Way.' Hilevych notes that the mountain in the background 'resembles a cathedral'. RIGHT: This mesmerising shot by photographer Benjamin Barakat was taken on the isle of Socotra. Barakat says that the darkness 'took his breath away', explaining: 'It was as if someone had flipped a switch and turned off all the lights in the world. The stars shone so brightly that it felt like I could touch them. The horizon was so dark that it looked like the zenith. In that moment, I felt small and insignificant, but incredibly alive' Jose Luis Cantabrana Garcia snared this shot over Western Australia's Pinnacles Desert. He says: 'This area is sacred to the [Aboriginal] Noongar people, the traditional owners of this land, and in the past, it was only accessible to women. The story goes that these limestone rocks are nothing but petrified ghosts of the men who dared to enter and were then eternally punished by the gods.' The photographer adds: 'As the summer Milky Way stretches across the night sky, these ancient ghosts seem to bridge the earthly world with the interstellar realm beyond' LEFT: The Milky Way hangs in spectacular style over Mount Taranaki, a dormant volcano on New Zealand's North Island, in this shot. Photographer Brendan Larsen says that the Rho Ophiuchi star system 'looks really good with its pink, yellow, and blue colours'. He also points out the Zeta Ophiuchi Nebula as 'the pinkish nebula to the lower left of the image'. RIGHT: Photographer Mitsuhiro Okabe says that 'the ethereal beauty of the Milky Way' is visible in this shot of Japan's Mount Fuji. It was captured during cherry blossom season in the country's Yamanashi Prefecture LEFT: This fantastic shot by photographer Burak Esenbey turns the lens on the 'majestic' mountains of Chile's Torres del Paine National Park. Esenbey says: 'In this frame, you can see the Los Cuernos mountain. Capturing this is demanding and youll need a bit of luck on your side... clear skies are rare.' RIGHT: This atmospheric shot by photographer Gary Bhaztara was snared on Gigi Hiu Beach in the south of Indonesia's Sumatra Island. Bhaztara says of the setting: 'The rock formation looks like a row of shark teeth, which is why it is called Shark Teeth Beach (Pantai Gigi Hiu in Indonesian). The sharp-looking rocks on this beach make this piece of shoreline one of the most unique in the world.' He notes that the beach is a popular spot for astrophotographers, as 'there is no light pollution here' This extraordinary picture by photographer Uros Fink shows a double arc of light over the Julian Alps in Slovenia. Fink says: 'In the sky, two arcs of light shine. One represents the winter belt of the Milky Way, while the other is the soft glow of the approaching sunrise.' He continues: 'In the panoramas left foreground stands the mighty Mangart mountain (2,679m/8,789ft), from which the Milky Way belt emerges, along with the Seagull Nebula and Orion [a constellation].' Fink describes it as an 'incredible view', and reveals that he stayed awake for 30 hours in order to capture the shot This striking shot by photographer Luis Cajete was snared during a long night 'under millions of stars' in Spain's Serrania de Cuenca nature reserve. Cajete says: 'Some of Spains darkest skies can be found in the Serrania de Cuenca, an area of remarkable geological beauty. In the southern region lies a place where water has carved the landscape, creating intriguing formations and limestone chimneys' This spectacular astro-landscape shot was captured on Baobab Avenue, a stretch of baobab trees in Madagascar. Photographer Steffi Lieberman says: 'Here you see the complete Milky Way arc over the imposing baobabs' Photographer Jose D Riquelme says of the setting for this magnificent picture: 'The Huayhuash mountain range, located in the Andean region of Peru, is home to stunning landscapes with mountains and lakes, offering unique opportunities to capture the Milky Way in all its splendour. Night photography in this location is an unforgettable experience, as the altitude and clean air allow the stars to shine brightly.' He continues: 'In this image, the mountain and the lake below serve as the perfect frame to highlight the Milky Way... the reflection of the starry sky in the lake creates a captivating symmetry' LEFT: The setting for this eye-catching photograph was the Wind River Range mountains in western Wyoming. Photographer Brandt Ryder says: 'This image was taken at a sheltered lake deep in the wilderness where the reflections were so pristine that its nearly impossible to separate the sky from the earth. Memories like this hold an extra special place in my heart as I was able to share this spectacular spot with my seven-year-old. I can still hear her words ringing in my ears: Daddy, this must be the most beautiful place on earth."' RIGHT: Alexander Forst captured this stunning shot of a night train running over the Wiesen Viaduct in the Swiss canton of Grisons and overlaid it with a shot from the same scene that shows the Milky Way overhead Jakob Sahner captured this ethereal shot on the Spanish island of La Palma, which is part of the Canaries. He says: 'La Palma and the Canary Islands are ideal for astrophotography due to the trade wind clouds that sit at around 1,000m (3,280ft). Being above these clouds makes it clear enough for capturing images, provided there is no haze or high cirrus clouds' Photographer Lorenzo Ranieri Tenti says that this panoramic photograph captures a 'breathtaking scene' in Namibia's Gross Spitzkoppe Nature Reserve, showing 'the southern Milky Way gracefully [spanning] a remarkable formation of smooth granite boulders'. The photographer notes: 'This area holds a unique charm, with Mount Spitzkoppe being the sole prominent feature for kilometres, majestically rising 700m (2,296ft) above the endless savannah' She says that only experienced travellers should try to visit these countries Lexie Alford holds the Guinness World Record for being the youngest person to travel to every country in the globe Lexie Alford holds the Guinness World Record for being the youngest person to travel to every country on the globe. All 196 of them. During her globetrotting she discovered some places so dangerous that she recommends only intrepid travellers should attempt to visit them - and the average tourist should stay away. The 25-year-old Californian, who has nearly half a million subscribers on her YouTube channel Lexie Limitless, created a video in which she lists the 10 countries she has found to be the most perilous for inexperienced tourists, places where there's a risk of kidnapping, where violent crime is rife, and where armed guards are mandatory. One of the countries, she reveals, should not be visited by travellers 'unless they have a death wish'. Lexie has visited each of these destinations in recent years and has no regrets, telling MailOnline Travel: 'Each place has taught me something new about the world and has challenged me to become a more seasoned traveller.' Her top 10 list can be found below, ranked in reverse order from the least to the most risky destination... 10. NORTH KOREA Lexie says that travellers can visit North Korea a country that has been ruled by the Kim familys dynastic dictatorship since the 1940s - via a highly-supervised government-organised tour, though she notes that these tours offer no opportunities to explore by yourself to find out what's really going on. Your browser does not support iframes. Lexie recommends visiting North Korea via a trip to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (pictured), rather than taking a highly-supervised government-organised tour of the country She says: If you go on this tour expect to be inundated with pro-government propaganda and only see the parts of the country that the regime wants you to see. Your tour money will go directly to the Kim regime and its cronies, not the North Korean people. Listing the dangers of visiting North Korea on such a tour, she says: If you step out of line in the eyes of the government minders, the consequences are extreme. You must be always hyper-aware of the rules and your actions if you go on this tour. For instance, when it's time to go to your hotel in the evening, you'd better stay there until it's your time to leave in the morning. There is an alternative way to see the country, Lexie notes. She recommends visiting the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on the border between North and South Korea, where you can set foot in North Korean territory inside the blue buildings at the demarcation line between the two countries. 9. BANGLADESH Lexie notes that there's a 'lack of a solid tourist infrastructure' in Bangladesh Explaining why she doesn't recommend Bangladesh to inexperienced tourists, Lexie says: Unfortunately there's a very high rate of petty crimes and violent crimes like pickpocketing and robbery. This happens in every country, but keep in mind that since there are hardly any other tourists here you're going to attract a lot of attention every time you're on the street, making you an obvious target.' The YouTuber adds that 'Bangladesh is often an uncomfortable and difficult place for women to travel... especially solo female travellers because sexual harassment tends to be more common than average here.' These issues can be exacerbated by how densely populated the country is, she says. Lexie notes: 'Bangladesh is just so crowded... if you get claustrophobic or intimidated by crowds then this is definitely not the place for you.' Lexie continues: 'To make matters worse, there's been a lot of political instability due to unrest in neighbouring countries with ongoing terrorist attacks, including attacks that targeted foreigners in the past five years or so. [Bangladesh is] also, unfortunately, hit quite commonly by several different types of natural disasters, the most frequent being extreme monsoon flooding.' Generally, she notes that there's a 'lack of a solid tourist infrastructure, which makes travel that much harder'. However, there are lots of wonderful reasons for experienced travellers to visit too. There is beautiful nature to see in Bangladesh, from its rivers to its jungles to the largest mangrove forest in the world,' Lexie says, adding: 'This country is cool and there are so many kind people in Bangladesh.' 8. LIBYA Lexie explores the ruins of Leptis Magna, an ancient Roman city on the Libyan coast Lexie tells MailOnline Travel that Libya is 'one of the only countries in the world that you cannot visit without hiring a tour company you aren't technically allowed to visit as a tourist because Libya doesn't currently issue tourist visas. She managed to visit the country in 2019 by securing a business visa, explaining: When you arrive you have to tell the immigration officers that you are visiting Libya for work in the oil and gas industry, which is really uncomfortable.' The country is in the grips of political-military instability that's been ongoing since the ousting of its former ruler Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Listing out the dangers that travellers face, Lexie says: On the low end the risk would be not being able to move about freely due to battles that might pop up at any time. On the high end, the risks would be getting kidnapped for ransom or political leverage or simply just getting killed in a conflict. The YouTuber notes: Regardless of the stressful situations that can come with simply getting into some of the more off-the-beaten-path countries like Libya, it's always worth it. You're rewarded with unique, colourful culture and beautiful landscapes which you often have all to yourself.' A high point for Lexie was seeing the 'well-preserved' ruins of Leptis Magna, an ancient Roman city on the Mediterranean coast. Lexie says: 'Not only were they spectacular to witness with my own eyes but it was also surreal to walk around this place completely alone - thats definitely not an experience you can have at the Colosseum in Rome or the Acropolis in Athens. However, she notes that currently, she doesn't recommend that either experienced or rookie travellers try to visit. 7. SOUTH SUDAN Lexie with security guards in South Sudan. She says that some of the reasons to travel there as a tourist would be to see its unique tribal cultures and a few national parks scattered throughout the country Lexie says: There are many reasons why South Sudan isnt a safe place to travel, but the main concern is that foreigners are often targets for kidnapping and violence by militia groups. The video blogger says that there is a huge lack of the infrastructure necessary for tourism in the country, which makes it extremely expensive to travel there. While Lexie says that most foreigners in the country are there as aid or military workers, she does note, however, that some of the reasons to travel there as a tourist would be to see its unique tribal cultures and a few national parks scattered throughout the country. 6. CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC Lexie says that large parts of the Central African Republic are 'basically inaccessible due to armed conflicts over control for the roads throughout the country'. Above is a rowboat on the country's Ubangi River Lexie says: The Central African Republic (CAR) is the only place I've ever travelled where my commercial aeroplane had to land in a corkscrew formation to avoid missile strikes that really set the tone for what it is like to travel here. The YouTuber notes that while 'there are some national parks and small cultural villages that tourists might want to see', large parts of the country are 'basically inaccessible due to armed conflicts over control for the roads throughout the country'. My commercial aeroplane had to land in a corkscrew formation to avoid missile strikes Lexie Alford She continues: Once you get outside of the capital [Bangui] there's not a lot of basic infrastructure so enforcing any laws is very difficult for the government. Armed militia groups basically set up illegal roadblocks to exert their control on a region and have targeted foreign travellers and aid workers this way. Lexie also notes that basic transportation and communication lines in the country are so limited' that embassy staff might not be able to reach travellers that require support in the time that is needed. 5. SOMALIA Lexie visiting the Laas Geel caves on the outskirts of Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland During her time in Somalia, Lexie stayed in a hotel with armed guards and security checkpoints at the entrances. She says: Kidnapping and terrorist attacks are by far the biggest concerns here, so you are not allowed to go anywhere here without an armed escort that you have to hire. She notes that the Somaliland state within the country is marginally safer for travellers, but whilst there she was still required by law to have an armoured vehicle and security guard with [her] the entire time. A highlight of her trip was a visit to Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland. She visited the Laas Geel caves on the outskirts of the city, which contain some of the oldest and most well-preserved cave drawings in the world. Lexie says: That was pretty amazing to see. 4. SYRIA Lexie says: Even if you are an experienced traveller... don't go to Syria in the foreseeable future. Above is the Syrian capital, Damascus, pictured in May 2022 Lexie says that it has become nearly impossible to travel in Syria as the countrys political tensions have worsened in recent years, due to the ongoing Syrian civil war. She says: Before the war, there was a good infrastructure for tourism but most of it has been lost now as large amounts of the country [have] been reduced to rubble. Syria is the only country where I personally know someone who was kidnapped there and held by the government. Thankfully my friend was dramatically saved after several months of being held in a Syrian prison... many other travellers have not been as fortunate. Summing up her advice, she says: Even if you are an experienced traveller as my friend was, don't go to Syria in the foreseeable future. The YouTuber adds that she hopes the situation changes in the future, as Syria has such an amazingly rich culture and history. 3. MALI Lexie notes that intrepid travellers might be tempted to explore the Great Mud Mosque (above) in Djenne, Mali Lexie says of Mali: 'This is not the place for your average tourist vacation because the risk versus the reward isn't worth it.' She continues: 'Large areas of Mali are under the control of Islamist rebels who practice extremely strict sharia law. This... makes it particularly unsafe for solo female travellers. Let's just also say that these groups politically dont take too kindly to American or European tourists. 'I have heard first-hand from European military officers that Mali is one of the worst places on the planet that you could possibly get kidnapped because it is nearly impossible to rescue someone there.' The YouTuber notes, however, that extreme travellers will be tempted to explore sites in the country such as the 'mysterious' Unesco-listed city of Timbuktu and the Great Mud Mosque in Djenne. 2. YEMEN 'I met some of the kindest people here, but it by far felt the most dangerous,' Lexie says of Yemen Lexie spent a week in Yemen when she was granted a visa to access the country as a working photographer. She explains: There is no infrastructure for tourists in mainland Yemen, and it isn't even possible to get a tourist visa for here. Reflecting on her time in the country, which has been seized by civil war since 2014, Lexie says: Yemen was one of the most interesting countries I have ever travelled to. I met some of the kindest people here, but it by far felt the most dangerous. She says: Not only does the U.S not have an embassy here, very few countries have embassies here, and theres basically no form of law enforcement beyond the Yemeni military. It feels like you're in the most lawless version of the old Wild West movies. The YouTuber does note that a safer way to 'get a taste of Yemeni culture' is to visit the island of Socotra, which lies off the coast of the mainland in the Indian Ocean. Describing the Yemeni isle as an amazing place filled with so much incredible diversity in its landscape, she notes: This island is somewhat autonomous from mainland Yemen and they do welcome tourists. However, Lexie does note that there are still many risks involved with travelling [to Socotra], so I would consider it something only an experienced traveller should undertake. 1. AFGHANISTAN Lexie says of Afghanistan: I wish everyone could see the beauty of this country but it has become too great of a risk for the time being' Afghanistan was another country in which Lexie stayed in a hotel with armed guards and security checkpoints to secure her safety. She says: I loved my time in Afghanistan. Afghanistan has all the makings for a world-class tourism destination - there are colourful traditions, amazing local foods, historic monuments dating back thousands of years and more importantly, kind people at every turn who had so much hope for their country. However, she notes that since the hardline Islamist group the Taliban returned to power in the country in 2021, the situation has changed completely. She says: This country is now totally inaccessible for the foreseeable future, even for the most extreme traveller. Unless they literally have a death wish. The YouTuber adds: I wish everyone could see the beauty of this country but it has become too great of a risk for the time being. To see more videos from Lexie, visit her YouTube channel 'Lexie Limitless' . 'The ready meals just never end.' So say American tourists Cara Atwell and Jeremy Davis as they film their first-ever trip to an M&S Foodhall, which they describe on their YouTube video of the expedition as 'unlike anything we've ever experienced before'. The couple are startled by the sheer number of 'heat and eat' meals on offer as they browse the aisles in the Chester store. 'How would you choose dinner?' asks Cara. 'Because there are just so many things that sound wonderful.' They find the descriptions on them delightful. American tourists Cara Atwell and Jeremy Davis (above) film their first-ever trip to an M&S Foodhall, which they describe as 'unlike anything we've ever experienced before' Cara and Jeremy visit the M&S Foodhall in Chester (above) Your browser does not support iframes. Cara notes the 'hearty and generous' shepherd's pie, and the 'tender and comforting' cottage pie. She told MailOnline Travel separately: 'I think the biggest surprise we had at M&S was the vast number of ready meals they have. 'The meal descriptions are part of the experience. I don't think you'll find a lot of food in the U.S that say things like "comforting gravy".' Other offerings the couple are enticed by include beef-filled Yorkshire pudding ('yes, please!'), salmon fillets ('they look decadent'), Percy Pig ice cream ('woah!'), the pre-packaged fruits ('so much better than what you could find in the U.S'), the Danish pastries ('they look amazing'), and the 'cheese and onion deli filler'. Cara says: 'Does that mean you can just use two slices of bread and slap some of that cheese and onion mixture in there and have a cheese and onion sandwich? That sounds like a good thing for me.' 'How would you choose dinner?' asks Cara. 'Because there are just so many things that sound wonderful' The Percy Pig sweets are a major hit with Cara and Jeremy They end up buying 'an assortment of random things' including M&S Collection crisps (prosciutto and formaggio), Percy Pig sweets, Colin the Caterpillar softies, a toad-in-the-hole ready meal, and a 'steak and old peculier ale pie' main for one. However, there is some confusion before they get to the till to pay. Over the 'tuna and sweetcorn deli filler', for starters. Upon spying it, Cara says: 'What is that like? We do not put corn in our tuna. And I'm very curious about it.' Cara is also stumped by the jars of goose fat. 'It's a cooking medium,' says Jeremy. 'Have you seen that in the U.S?' asks Cara. 'No, but it makes sense,' says Jeremy. The steak and old peculier ale pie ends up being one of the most treasured purchases Cara and Jeremy said of their visit: 'The experience was better than we expected. There was a great selection of items and the employees that we came in contact with were kind and helpful' The pair are also miffed by the location of the shopping trolleys, which are 'hidden down a weird alleyway' in the store. And that's not all. We asked them how 'alien' the experience felt. They said: 'The most alien feeling about shopping at M&S is the fact that the food hall is housed inside the department store. In the U.S, you might find a high-end department store that has a small cafe or a candy counter, but not a full grocery section.' Which items that they'd not heard of did they find the most enticing? They said: 'We had had some of our viewers tell us about "toad in the hole", but we hadn't really investigated what it was. We have something called toad in the hole in the U.S, but it's a piece of bread that you cut a hole in to cook an egg. After seeing it at M&S, we bought and tried it, and it turned out to be one of our favourites.' What did the couple end up buying? 'An assortment of random things' THE VERDICT ON THE M&S FOODHALL HAUL... In a post-shop taste test Cara and Jeremy enjoy the Percy Pig sweets ('fruity and sweet and delightful'), the Colin the Caterpillar softies ('really nice, so good') and the old peculier ale pie ('that beef is so tender, it melts in your mouth'). Cara tucks into a Percy Pig sweet during a post-trip taste test Cara and Jeremy's steak and old peculiar ale pie (left) and their toad in the hole (right) The toad in the hole is also declared a winner a really nice mixture, for something just thrown in the oven for 20 minutes, pretty good, way to go M&S! They added in an email to MailOnline Travel: 'The item that we both seemed to enjoy the most was the "steak and old peculiar ale pie". 'We had tried a heat-and-eat pie from Sainsbury's before and it was okay, but the pie from M&S was much better quality and tasted more like something you get in a restaurant or pub.' Advertisement In a post-shop taste test that they film, they also enjoy the Percy Pig sweets ('fruity and sweet and delightful'), the Colin the Caterpillar softies ('really nice, so good') and the old peculier ale pie ('that beef is so tender, it melts in your mouth'). They added in an email to MailOnline Travel: 'The item that we both seemed to enjoy the most was the "steak and old peculiar ale pie". We had tried a heat-and-eat pie from Sainsbury's before and it was okay, but the pie from M&S was much better quality and tasted more like something you get in a restaurant or pub.' Would they recommend M&S Food to other visiting Americans? They said: 'The experience was better than we expected. There was a great selection of items and the employees that we came in contact with were kind and helpful. Above all, the quality of the food there was really good. We would recommend M&S to other Americans. It is probably the most different supermarket experience from what we have in the U.S. They have so many interesting options for great quality foods. But it is more expensive.' Cara and Jeremy post on social media as The Magic Geekdom. They can be found at www.instagram.com/themagicgeekdom; twitter.com/magicgeekdom; www.tiktok.com/@themagicgeekdom; and www.facebook.com/themagicgeekdom. The original M&S Foodhall video can be found here. They also point the finger at a IRS investigator who they claim 'had a picture of Todd on a dartboard in his office' DailyMail.com has obtained appeal docs in which they blame Todd's ex-business partner Mark Braddock, 57, for lying under oath about their gay affair in 2005 Todd, 54, and Julie, 50, were found guilty on ten counts of financial crimes and sentenced to a combined 19 years in prison in January Todd and Julie Chrisley have furiously slammed the reality star dad's so-called 'scorned gay lover' as a 'liar' in explosive appeal documents - insisting via their lawyer that he fabricated 'everything', including tales of their affair, in order to hide his own crimes. The disgraced couple - who are currently serving a combined 19-year prison sentence after being found guilty of a $30 million tax fraud scheme - are also accusing one of the investigators in the case against them of having a 'dartboard in his office' with a picture of Todd's face on it. The astounding allegations were made in a 124-page appeal - obtained exclusively by DailyMail.com, which was filed by the couple in an attempt to overturn their financial crimes conviction. Todd, 54, and Julie, 50, have hired famed defense attorney Alex Little of legal firm Burr & Forman, to handle their appeal which seeks to overturn the respective 12- and seven-year prison sentences handed down to the former reality TV stars in November of last year. In the legal documents, the couple attacks Todd's former business partner and alleged gay lover Mark Braddock, accusing him of lying under oath by saying that he helped them to defraud banks in order to get immunity for himself. Todd Chrisley and his wife Julie have furiously slammed the reality TV dad's alleged gay lover in explosive appeal documents as they try to overturn their combined 19-year jail sentence The appeal accuses Todd's former business partner Mark Braddock (pictured with his wife in 2019) - who alleged that they had a gay love affair in 2005 - of 'lying' in return for immunity DailyMail.com has obtained the exclusive appeal documents, in which the couple also accuses an investigator in the case of having a 'picture of Todd on a dartboard in his office' Interestingly, the appeal does not mention the most shocking aspect of Braddock's bombshell testimony: his claims that he and Todd had a secret love affair in 2005, which neither of their wives knew about until he took to the stand. However, speaking to DailyMail.com, the Chrisleys' lawyer insisted that there was no need to include a reference to the affair claims in the documents because the couple's appeal makes clear that 'Braddock lied about everything [so] it was not necessary'. Todd has vehemently denied the affair in the past and said that Braddock is a 'toad' who looks like a 'thumb.' Their appeal also says that the prosecutors violated their fourth amendment rights, which protects citizens from unlawful search and seizures, when an investigator with the Department of Justice, Josh Waites - who had such an 'unusual' interest in Todd that caused him to have a 'dartboard' with Todd's face on it - 'led a warrantless search of a locked warehouse that contained the Chrisleys' personal items.' The Chrisleys were found guilty of bank fraud, wire fraud, tax evasion and numerous counts of conspiracy after a trial that went on for one month - from May until June 2022. Todd is serving 12 years in a Florida jail, while Julie is serving seven years behind bars in Kentucky. They were also ordered to pay $17,270,741.57 in restitution. In an exclusive statement to DailyMail.com, Little said: 'The Chrisleys have an unusually strong case on appeal, and we are optimistic about our chances.' In most criminal conviction cases, there is a 50/50 chance that the ruling will be overturned, but Little says that his clients have a much greater chance based on several mitigating factors. Mark said he was threatened by blackmailers who claimed to know about their previous affair. He and Todd ended up paying $38,000 to keep them quiet. He is seen with his family in 2018 The appeal says evidence against Julie (seen here with Todd after their conviction) was 'sparse' and that 'Braddock only discussed with her whether certain documents looked real or not' The first charge that the Chrisleys are appealing is bank fraud. The appeal states that there was 'insufficient evidence of the bank fraud counts' and 'procedural errors.' 'Count 1 charged Todd and Julie Chrisley with conspiracy to commit bank fraud under 18 U.S.C. 1349. The government alleged that the Chrisleys conspired with Co-conspirator A, who was Todds former business partner named Mark Braddock, to defraud multiple financial institutions from about 2007 to 2012,' the docs allege. Aside from claiming that the government had 'no witnesses' any of the banks that they were convicted of defrauding, they also allege that the 'government relied exclusively on the testimony of Mark Braddock' which they say was 'sparse'. 'Braddocks testimony about Julie was sparse. He testified only that he had discussed with her whether certain documents looked real or not and the need to keep projecting a positive financial picture so Todd could keep getting loans,' the Chrisleys allege. The documents further note that Braddock's testimony was made in return for an immunity deal - while calling attention to the fact that Todd and his former business partner were no longer on good terms when the latter took to the stand. 'Braddock, who had a falling out with the Chrisleys years before the charges were brought, testified that he helped the Chrisleys defraud banks,' the appeal says. 'He provided this testimony pursuant to an immunity deal.' DailyMail.com has contacted Braddock for comment. While Braddock was indeed granted immunity in return for testifying against the Chrisleys, he also had to put his marriage of 34 years on the line when he told the court that he and Todd engaged in a consensual homosexual affair in 2005. Braddock is the former Vice President of real estate software company called Executive Asset Management, LLC. - which is where he worked with Todd under the Chrisley Asset Management umbrella. He started working in the role 2005 and stayed there until 2012. While working at Executive Asset Management, Braddock said in court that he was threatened by blackmailers who claimed to know about his previous affair with Todd. 'Pay cash and we'll shut up,' he claimed the blackmailer threatened over text. According to Braddock, he and Todd ended up paying the blackmailer $38,000 to stay quiet. In 2012, Braddock said Todd threw him out of his office and called the police on him, which caused him to feel vengeful - and led to him eventually tipping off the FBI about Todd and his wife's criminal activity. In January, Todd responded to Braddock's claims on an episode of his now non-existent podcast Chrisley Confessions. 'Whats insulted me the most is that, out of all these 54 years, for me to finally be accused of being with a man, it would be someone who looked like Mark Braddock,' Todd said. 'That is the one thing that is the most insulting. To say that I couldnt pull something better than that theres better to be had by Todd Chrisley than that,' Todd added. Todd and Julie (with their family in a promo shoot) are appealing their tax evasion charge by claiming that they were ordered to pay taxes on money that was not only their income He went on to say he was, 'A toad. Someone that looks like a thumb. Someone who says hes only had sex with his wife and me.' Braddock - a father and grandfather of two - has been married to his wife Leslie since 1987. After admitting to his gay love affair for the first time during the trial, she ultimately decided to stay with him. The Chrisleys also appeal their convictions by alleging that their fourth amendment rights were violated - accusing one of the investigators in the case, Josh Waites, of taking an 'unusual' interest in Todd and even posting a picture of the former reality star on a dartboard in his office. The appeal document states: 'The second issue on appeal relates to the admission of Waites, who had a picture of Todd on a dartboard in his office initiated and led a warrantless search of a locked warehouse where the Chrisleys stored personal items.' 'Waites arrived at the warehouse with his police lights flashing, although he later told fellow DOR officers to lie by telling people he had not been there.' 'With no warrant, the rogue group displayed a piece of paper to the manager at the warehouse and demanded entry. When the manager initially refused, they threated the manager with arrest.' the appeal says. The items, they allege, 'derived from documents the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) unlawfully seized and turned over to federal investigators.' 'The district court admitted substantial volumes of evidence at trial that were fruits of an unlawful search, despite its prior order suppressing such evidence, without requiring the government to show that the evidence was obtained from a source independent of the unconstitutional search.' The appeal also takes aim at IRS Revenue Officer Betty Carter. The Chrisleys allege that she 'lied about the Defendants owing taxes for years when she knew no taxes were due and that 'the government knowingly used Officer Carters false testimony and failed to correct it.' In the Chrisleys' indictment, the government says that the couple committed tax evasion, and conspired to evade taxes, by receiving income through the familys loan-out company, 7Cs Productions, Inc. Todd and Julie were accused of using 7C to hide their income in an effort to keep the IRS from collecting $2 million in unpaid taxes that Todd owed the federal government. However, the Chrisleys state in the appeal that their were wrongly convicted because 7C's money is not solely their own and, thus, they were not required to pay taxes on all of it. 'The Chrisleys did not produce the idea to create a loan-out company to evade taxes; they did not come up with the idea to create the company at all,' their appeal states. 'The attorney who formed 7Cs, Leron Rogers, testified that the studio required the Chrisleys to create the loan-out company.' They continue, 'In addition, the government presented no evidence that the Defendants provided false information to the IRS sufficient to constitute actual or attempted evasion of tax payments.' The indictment also included an order that the Chrisleys pay 'an order of restitution in the amount of $17,270,741.57' - a figure that the Chrisleys believe is not based on any factual evidence presented during the trial. The appeal docs allege, that 'the court committed further procedural error related to sentencing by ordering restitution and forfeiture without explaining the basis for its decisions' and say that Todd and Julie were not given 'an opportunity to be heard.' 'Because the court failed to explain the legal and factual basis for its decisions on these issues, there is no way to know whether the court made legal and factual errors when arriving at the numbers that it did.' Together, Todd and Julie want their convictions to be overturned and acquittal entered. The appeal documents also include that the court vacate the Defendants sentence, including the awards of restitution - and order of forfeiture, and remand for a new sentencing hearing. Prosecutors claimed during the trial that the couple submitted fake documents to banks when taking out $30 million in bank loans, and that Julie also submitted a fraudulent credit report and false bank statements when trying to rent a house in California. Tyra Banks posted a set of ultra-casual Instagram snaps this week that showed her posing in bed with minimal makeup on. The supermodel, 49. sported a simple swipe of mascara that made her green eyes pop as she gazed at the camera and showed off her radiant complexion. Sweeping her luxurious curls out of her face with a headband, she shot the camera an occasionally sultry stare while indulging in a 'Study break.' In 2012, while already a major star, Tyra completed a nine-week, non-degree-granting Owner/President Management Program at Harvard Business School. Seven years later she announced she had 'returned to school' at Harvard 'to refresh the knowledge I gained' ahead of a new business enterprise. Radiant: Tyra Banks posted a set of ultra-casual Instagram snaps this week that showed her posing in bed with minimal makeup on Wow: The supermodel, 49. sported a simple swipe of mascara that made her green eyes pop as she gazed at the camera and showed off her radiant complexion At the time she was preparing to launch ModelLand, a multimedia center where the tours include such attractions as ice cream tastings and posing classes. 'Study break,' Tyra wrote in the caption of her new Instagram album. 'Check out these 10 photos in 10 seconds and then go back to work!' Last month the America's Next Top Model alum gave a speech at Harvard Business School to the students receiving the same certificate she got in 2012. 'Sending so much love to the OPM 59 graduates,' she wrote. 'I know for sure that your biggest and wildest DREAMS will come true!' Her new 'Study break' post is an indication that Tyra has decided to brush up on her education as she throws herself into her entrepreneurial ventures. Tyra, who skipped college as a young woman in order to pursue modeling, recently announced her departure from Dancing With The Stars. She was hired to host the smash hit competition show in 2020 but announced this March that she was planning to leave in order to devote herself to her businesses. Time off: Sweeping her luxurious curls out of her face with a headband, she shot the camera a sultry look while indulging in a 'Study break' History: In 2012, while already a major star, Tyra completed a nine-week, non-degree-granting Owner/President Management Program Back at it: Seven years later she announced she had 'returned to school' at Harvard 'to refresh the knowledge I gained' ahead of a new business enterprise At the time: She was preparing to launch ModelLand, a multimedia center where the tours include such attractions as ice cream tastings and posing classes Incidentally: Her new 'Study break' post is an indication that Tyra has decided to brush up on her education as she throws herself into her entrepreneurial ventures Moving ahead: Tyra, who skipped college as a young woman in order to pursue modeling, recently announced her departure from Dancing With The Stars Moving ahead: She was hired to host the smash hit competition show in 2020 but announced this March that she was planning to leave in order to devote herself to her businesses Onward: In an interview with TMZ , she crowed that she was headed 'from the ballroom to the boardroom, baby!' and 'from the dance floor to the stock market floor' In an interview with TMZ, she crowed that she was headed 'from the ballroom to the boardroom, baby!' and 'from the dance floor to the stock market floor.' One of her recent endeavors is an ice cream brand SMiZE & Dream, named after the word 'smize,' which she famously coined years ago to mean 'smiling with your eyes.' Dancing With The Stars controversially hired Tyra in July 2020 to replace the beloved previous hosts Tom Bergeron and Erin Andrews. Shortly after taking the job, Tyra hit the headlines for accidentally announcing the wrong bottom two during a live episode of the show. The incident clearly still rankled the following year, when she appeared at a Television Critics Association panel and argued that it was 'very important' for her to clarify that the mix-up was not her fault. She noted that 'there's a whole control room, and things happening, and craziness going on that I'm fed certain things, say certain things that I'm told.' Channel Seven's Home and Away is famous for its dramatic storylines, which have included everything from horrific fires, to murder, kidnapping and even a cyclone. And now a new bizarre fan theory has emerged to explain the chaos that seems to visit Summer Bay every ratings season. Writing on the industry blog Media Spy, one fan reckons that soapie producers concoct 'disaster' storylines just so they can justify giving the show's sets a make-over. 'All soapies have these dodgy storylines every year in order to have a new set built,' the fan says. 'I think they all have a set designer on the payroll.' A bizarre fan theory has emerged explaining why soaps like Home and Away and Neighbours embrace their 'disaster' storylines Pictured: A scene from the new season of Home and Away Writing on the industry blog Media Spy, one fan reckons that soapie producers concoct 'disaster' storylines just so they can justify giving the show's sets a make-over Picture: A scene from the notorious Neighbours 'tornado' storyline from 2014 A fan theory from Media Spy: 'All soapies have these dodgy storylines every year in order to have a new set built' 'They're there to build sets. Hence why we have a school fire and a pub fire every few years in order to redo the pub and the school scenes. And every 10 years during any soapie revamp, is when the big storm/earthquake/bomb etc to redo more than one set.' The comment also appeared to allude to the notorious Neighbours 'disaster' storyline from 2014, when the show's fictional Melbourne suburb was hit by a tornado. Meanwhile, another fan appeared to mock the new fan theory with a comment about how Home and Away shamelessly promotes sexy male cast members. 'You forgot the biggest repeated dramatic storyline,' they began: 'three new shirtless brothers every three years!' The weird fan theories come after a new Home and Away trailer revealed last week that one of the show's favourite characters is about to be killed off. The preview promises plenty of mayhem in the upcoming episodes, including multiple bomb threats, a tense police siege and a kidnap. But the new trailer is bound to keep viewers guessing over just who or who won't be left alive by the end of the week. The preview begins with the ominous words: 'After this week who won't come home?'. A large box is then seen arriving at the local cafe...which turns out to be a bomb. Another Media Spy user appeared to mock the new fan theory with a comment about how Home and Away shamelessly promotes sexy male cast members (pictured) Since debuting in 1988 Home and Away has given fans multiple storylines featuring all manner of catastrophe. According to one estimation there have been 23 murders on the show over the past three decades. Since the show's setting, the fictional Summer Bay, has a population of just under 400, this is an astronomically high homicide rate. Meanwhile, in 2006 Summer Bay was terrorised by a pyromaniac, who seemed bent on burning the town down. And five years later the town was nearly wiped out by a cyclone. Morgan Waterhouse was recently called out for attending a controversial Melbourne nightclub relaunch which featured live reptiles and a baby crocodile. But the influencer ignored the drama on Tuesday as he enjoyed a romantic getaway with his girlfriend Olivia Molly Rogers in Sydney. The model shared a series of photos to his Instagram while he had breakfast with his glamorous girlfriend at a luxurious hotel. Olivia is pictured enjoying a cup of coffee from their balcony while overlooking the Sydney Harbour views. Morgan also shared a selfie of the couple in the elevator as they prepared to explore the city. Morgan Waterhouse enjoyed a romantic getaway with his girlfriend Olivia Molly Rogers after attending controversial Melbourne nightclub relaunch It comes after Morgan attended the relaunch of a Melbourne nightclub slammed for bringing live reptiles and a baby crocodile. Photos from the bash at popular South Yarra club Two Wrongs show several influencers - including Morgan - excitedly holding snakes and baby crocodiles. One image that has drawn particular ire shows two glamorous woman with a snake draped across their shoulders as they preen for the camera. But all evidence of the event has since vanished from the bar's Instagram account after the photos copped a barrage of abuse online. Morgan shared a photo of himself cradling a tiny crocodile and another with a large snake wrapped around his neck. He shared a series of photos to his Instagram while he enjoyed breakfast with his glamorous girlfriend at a luxurious hotel It comes after Morgan attended the relaunch of a Melbourne nightclub slammed for bringing live reptiles and a baby crocodile over the weekend Influencer Britt Reukers posted snaps of someone kissing one of the baby crocs to her IG Stories. Meanwhile another attendee shared a photo of her and a friend holding a snake around their necks. While the photos were deleted from the club's Instagram page, Influencer Opinions was quick to save screenshots of the now deleted photos and share them on their own page. It sparked a barrage of outraged comments from social media users who were unsettled by the use of the reptiles as 'props' for photos. One image that has drawn particular ire shows two glamorous woman with a snake draped across their shoulders as they preen for the camera 'Use of animals as a promotional tool in an incredibly frightening environment for them is disgusting and cruel,' one person wrote. 'Passing around animals in a bar is just cruel. Great rebrand,' another said. 'Those poor animals would have been so frightened,' a third commented, while one wrote: 'This is ridiculous. Terrible environment for these animals.' One person said: 'This makes me feel sick. Absolutely disgusting.' 'Literally disgusting! People and companies will do anything for publicity these days,' another said Jenelle Evans was ever the proud mom as she celebrated her daughter Ensley's kindergarten graduation on Tuesday. The Teen mom alum, 31, shared a number of snaps from the special occasion to her Instagram, as she happily posed with the 6-year-old, who's the youngest of her three children. 'My baby is going to 1st grade! #KindergartenGraduation,' the reality TV star who recently teased her new OnlyFans content wrote in the caption. Also present for the special occasion was her eldest son Jace, 13 of whom she regained full custody of earlier this year as well as her other son Kaiser, 8, and husband David Eason. Her mother Barbara Evans was also in attendance. It comes after Jenelle revealed that their strained relationship has improved now that she has custody of Jace, after previously relinquishing parental rights to Barbara over a decade ago. Proud mom: Jenelle Evans was ever the proud mom as she celebrated her daughter Ensley's kindergarten graduation on Tuesday with her husband David Eason and sons Jace and Kaiser One snap saw Jenelle posing with all three of her kids as well as David. She held a bouquet of flowers for the little graduate, who donned a baby blue cap and gown and held a teddy bear in her arms. Jenelle who underwent a medical procedure on her esophagus last month sported a tan dress and chunky white sandals for the occasion. Meanwhile her husband wore a blue button-up short with tan pants and a black fedora hat. Another photo saw them giving Ensley a kiss on the cheek from both sides, with David holding a big balloon with the words 'congrats grad!' written in gold. There was also a snap of Ensley proudly holding her diploma. Jenelle shares Ensley with David, who also has two children Maryssa and Kaden from previous relationships. She shares her younger son Kaiser with ex Nathan Griffith, and Jace with ex Andrew Lewis. It comes after Jenelle celebrated Mother's Day with her brood earlier this month. Youngest: The Teen mom alum, 31, shared a number of snaps from the special occasion to her Instagram, as she happily posed with the 6-year-old, who's the youngest of her three children First grade: 'My baby is going to 1st grade! #KindergartenGraduation,' the reality TV star wrote in the caption Grandma: Her mother Barbara Evans was also in attendance. It comes after Jenelle revealed that their strained relationship has improved now that she has custody of Jace, after previously relinquishing parental rights to Barbara over a decade ago She shared snaps of her with her mom, kids and stepdaughter Maryssa, 15. David also shared a photo of them all out to lunch together, noting he was 'happy' to see both Jenelle and Barbara spending the special day together. 'Happy day after mothers day to my beautiful wife! You're the best mom ever! I was so happy to see @j_evans1219 and Barb celebrate #mothersday2023 together!' he captioned the post. Jenelle was finally granted full custody of her son Jace in March. The new custody arrangement became official after the MTV reality star and her mother Barbara signed the papers on March 16 after more than a decade. She wrote in the caption of a video of herself signing the documents and shedding tears of joy: 'Words can't describe how happy I truly am. Our family is complete now! Thank you mom.' The North Carolina native who welcomed Jace in 2009 had signed over custody of her eldest son to Barbara just shortly after his birth. Over the years, Jenelle continued with a long battle in court with her mother over custody of her firstborn child, due to battling a drug addiction and having been arrested a number of times in her preteen years. Jenelle was 17 at the time of Jace's birth and had her entire pregnancy documented on MTV's 16 And Pregnant. Family: Jenelle was finally granted full custody of her eldest son Jace, 13, in March after relinquishing parental rights to her mother many years ago It's official! The new custody arrangement became official after the Teen Mom reality star and her mother Barbara signed the papers after more than a decade; The duo pictured in 2015 New gig: Though she no longer stars on reality TV, Jenelle has been busy creating content for OnlyFans, and recently shared a screenshot of the thousands of unread messages awaiting her In the past, Jenelle and David had lost custody of all of their children after a scary incident involving their dog in April 2019. Eason killed their French bulldog, Nugget, after the dog allegedly attacked and bit Ensley. Following the tragic event, their children were removed from their custody, and the couple separated for around a year. Despite their rocky history and having both been fired from the MTV program, they ended up rekindling their relationship and reconciling their issues. Married At First Sight's 'horny bride' Melissa Sheppard has finally moved on from Josh White, months after their TV marriage ended due to her sexual enthusiasm. The 41-year-old appeared on Hughesy, Ed & Erin as part of the radio show's new dating-themed segment, in which single mothers are paired with much-younger men. Speaking to the program on Monday, Melissa revealed she hadn't been on a single date since going on MAFS, despite receiving a flood of Instagram messages from men desperate to date her. Melissa was matched with suitor Dave, a 33-year-old truck driver who was hoping to date an older woman. The couple attended an intimate pottery class on Tuesday for their first date, while a 2Day FM camera crew stayed close by to capture all the steamy action. Married At First Sight's 'horny bride' Melissa Sheppard, 41, (left) enjoyed a steamy date with a 33-year-old truck driver named Dave (right) on Tuesday as part of a segment on 2Day FM's Hughesy, Ed & Erin An Instagram video documenting the date shows the pair flirting shamelessly over a pottery wheel, with a giddy Melissa telling the cameras: 'He's really good looking! Oh, my heart is a little bit fluttery actually.' At one stage, the pair reenacted the iconic sexually-charged pottery scene from Ghost, in which Patrick Swayze leans over Demi Moore as they sculpt wet clay. Speaking to Hughesy, Ed & Erin the next day, Melissa described her date as 'hot and heavy'. An Instagram video documenting the date shows the pair flirting shamelessly over a pottery wheel, with a giddy Melissa telling the cameras: 'He's really good looking! Oh, my heart is a little bit fluttery actually. 'The date went awesome. Have was so great, I was vibing with him. We were getting along. we were laughing. It was actually a really, really good date,' she gushed. 'Dave is like the perfect gentleman. We left from the clay place and then we went actually to have a drink, and we had a bite to eat together after,' she divulged, before admitting that their date ended with a smooch. 'I dropped Dave home actually. And then we had a bit of a pash in the car,' she said. At one stage, the pair reenacted the iconic sexually-charged pottery scene from Ghost, in which Patrick Swayze leans over Demi Moore as they sculpt wet clay. Pictured left is the scene from Ghost, and right is Melissa and Dave's date Speaking to Hughesy, Ed & Erin the next day, Melissa described her date as 'hot and heavy' The blonde then confirmed that she'd swapped numbers with Dave, and that the duo were keen to meet up again. Melissa's date comes after she was forced to go into hiding after two men tracked her down at work asking for sex. The hair stylist, whose excessive need for sex has been a major turn-off for her TV husband Josh, told Mamamia in February that she was horrified when one of the men asked her colleague if the "freak in the sheets" was working that day. Melissa's TV marriage to groom Josh White (left) ended due to her sexual enthusiasm 'When [my colleague]said "no" and then asked what he wanted, he just said, "Well if she's after a good f**k, I can give it to her." My colleague asked him to leave and I reported it,' she said. The 'freak in the sheets' comment refers to a statement Melissa made to producers when describing her sexual proclivities. Horrified by the man's brazen proposal, Melissa reiterated her randy behaviour on MAFS wasn't an open invitation to the public. She went on to slam the producers for focusing too much on her sexuality during filming, and pointed out she was much more than a one-dimensional horny bride. American Pie actors Jason Biggs and Seann William Scott have reunited to appear in a new ad for DoorDash. Biggs, 45, and Scott, 46 - who played the respective roles of Jim and Stifler in the 1999 hit comedy and its sequels - are part of a promotional campaign for the food delivery service's Summer of DashPass, People reported Tuesday. 'Whenever we get back together, it is like we never missed a beat,' Biggs told the publication. 'So this campaign, it was just like we literally picked up right where we left off, basically after the last movie.' Biggs said of his onscreen chemistry with his longtime colleague, 'Seann and I have that really incredible back and forth with each other.' The ad starts with Biggs greeting a DoorDash delivery person at a home, saying, 'This is going to be the best summer ever.' Together again: American Pie actors Seann William Scott, 46, and Jason Biggs, 45, have reunited to appear in a new ad for DoorDash for the food delivery service's Summer of DashPass Scott then emerges from behind the delivery driver, asking, 'What did you just say?' Scott referencing the motion picture, said, 'You better not be saying that this summer is going to better than the one we spent together, buddy. I mean the parties, the pranks ... the wet stuff.' Biggs replied, 'You lost me on that last one ... but yeah, that was fun.' In the spot, Scott is seen swiping a milkshake from Biggs and drinking it, making an inside joke in reference to one of the racy sequences from the sex comedy. 'That's the second best thing that's ever happened in my mouth,' Scott said. 'It's like they're making a bunch of little flavor babies in there.' Biggs and Scott appeared alongside one another in four films in the franchise: 1999's American Pie, 2001's American Pie 2, 2003's American Wedding and 2012's American Reunion. Biggs, who has gone on to appear in Orange Is the New Black and Loser, opened up about production on the popular comedy series. 'We would take two or three months to film those movies in the spring and summertime and then they would come out the following summer,' Biggs said. 'It was like summer camp for us, we would all get together and just have the best time of our lives.' In the spot, Scott is seen swiping a milkshake from Biggs and drinking it, making an inside joke in reference to one of the racy sequences from the sex comedy Biggs said of his onscreen chemistry with his longtime colleague, 'Seann and I have that really incredible back and forth with each other' Biggs and Scott played the respective roles of Jim and Stifler in the 1999 hit comedy and its sequels Scott, who has also been seen in Welcome to Flatch and the Lethal Weapon TV series, said of the motion pictures: 'I've been really fortunate to have some fun experiences throughout my career, but nothing compares to shooting those movies.' Both actors have summer plans on tap, as Biggs told the outlet he's planning on visiting Austria with his wife Jenny Mollen and their sons Sid, nine, and Lazlo, five; while Scott is planning on remaining in California with his spouse Olivia Korenberg. Biggs and Scott were members of the ensemble casts in the films, which also included Alyson Hannigan, Chris Klein, Natasha Lyonne, Shannon Elizabeth, Mena Suvari, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Chris Owen, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Eugene Levy and Jennifer Coolidge. 'I have so much love for everybody, really in all the projects that I've worked on, but I'm just very close to everybody in American Pie,' Scott told the outlet. 'It just makes me really happy just to see them doing different things especially with Natasha, and Jennifer and Eugene, just seeing them all thrive. It's awesome.' Lottie Moss looked sensational as she stepped out to the Marie Claire conference at Cape Sounio near Athens, Greece on Tuesday. The model, 25, gave a glimpse at her midriff as she wore a crop top with a low cut sweetheart neckline as she posed before heading into the event. Fashionista Lottie, who is the younger sister of supermodel Kate Moss, wore a white trousers suit for the occasion. Her outfit featured mirrored silver detail on the arms and lapels of the jacket, as well as down the sides of her trouser legs. She completed her look by carrying a silver handbag with her while she wore a pair of high-heeled shoes to add a few inches to her stature. In style: Lottie Moss, 25, looked sensational as she stepped out in a chic white suit to the Marie Claire conference at Cape Sounio near Athens, Greece on Tuesday Fashion focus: The model gave a glimpse at her midriff as she wore a crop top with a low cut sweetheart neckline as she posed before heading into the event Lottie wore lashings of make-up to highlight her pretty features, while her 'lover' face tattoo was on show. The social media influencer has kept her fans up to date with her trip to Greece, with the star taking to her Instagram Stories to showcase her jaw-dropping figure this week. She posed topless while wearing nothing more than a white thong in a seductive Instagram video. The OnlyFans model put on a confident display as she showed off her assets while protecting her modesty with a raised arm as she worked it for the camera. She also gave a glimpse of her abs and numerous tattoos as she posed in the underwear. Lottie wore her long blonde tresses in loose waves over her shoulders while opting for natural makeup dominated by a light pink lipstick. The subscription only model offered fans a sultry display as she posed in a hotel room backtracked to music. Shortly after the star gave fans another glimpse of her incredible figure as she slipped into a black and white bikini set. Strike a pose: Fashionista Lottie, who is the younger sister of supermodel Kate Moss, wore a white trousers suit for the occasion Looking good: Her outfit featured mirrored silver detail on the arms and lapels of the jacket, as well as down the sides of her trouser legs She opted for a bandeau top and high rise bottoms, which both featured a white lining around the hem. Ensuring she was ready for the hot weather, she covered her face with a pair of sunglasses and once again sent temperatures soaring. The posts come after it was revealed Lottie had split from the Australian model Daniel Steel earlier this month, just four months after confirming their romance. She went public with her ex-boyfriend, who also works as a firefighter, in January as they spent time together in Perth. But in an interview, she revealed the 9,000 miles between them prompted her to break off their relationship. Speaking on the Headstrong podcast, hosted by Louis Strong, she explained, 'My current situation is that I am single. We broke up. 'It was long distanced, and it was just too difficult for me. He was happy to give it a go, but I wasnt feeling that. 'He wasnt up for moving here and I was planning a move to Los Angeles at the time, and he didnt want to move there either and I didnt want to live in Perth, so it was like, where is this going? I am single now and ready to mingle.' Lottie may have enjoyed a string of high-profile flings with the likes of Brooklyn Beckham, Alex Mytton, Sam Prince and Tristan Evans - but she doesn't look back at them all fondly. Racy: It comes after Lottie posed topless, wearing nothing but a white thong in a seductive Instagram video as she kept fans up to date with her Greek trip on Monday Seductive: She also gave a glimpse of her toned abs and many tattoos as she put on a confident display in the underwear (L), before changing into a black and white bikini set (R) She joked, 'At the beginning I was attracting sewer rats and now I am attracting really good guys. I was attracting the worse of the worse, I could write a book. 'I treat myself better and I am much more attractive now I am not going out and getting wasted. I felt so self-conscious before when I went out and met guys but now, Im like damn b****. Back in January, Lottie went public with Daniel, sharing a slew of loved up clips with the hunky model and firefighter to her Instagram Stories. At the time, it was reported the beauty was being 'spoiled' by her new man, who even romantically surprised her with a hotel room of rose petals. A 'pinch me' moment for Florence Pugh came to an abrupt halt when a fellow passenger let out a 'proud belch' at Rome airport last week. The actress, 27, was taken aback when she saw the terminal walls covered with posters from her Valentino campaign, after being announced as the new face for the designer brand. Florence was filming the various pictures from the photoshoot as she headed through the airport, only to be rudely interrupted by a man passing wind. But the Don't Worry Darling star saw the funny side of it and decided to share the video on Instagram with her followers on Tuesday. She wrote: 'Chessie and I were walking through Rome airport last week to shoot our final day of We Live In Time and we were welcomed by this array of Pugh faces. Back to reality: A 'pinch me' moment for Florence Pugh came to an abrupt halt when a fellow passenger let out a 'proud belch' at Rome airport last week Strike a pose: The actress, 27, was taken aback when she saw the terminal walls covered with posters from her Valentino campaign 'We both grabbed for our phones to video as it was nuts and just as I finished filming the final faces, the dude behind let out a proud belch and brought a brilliant stop to all our videoing nonsense. 'If you listen closely you can hear it all. Plus the weird Pugh laugh in all its glory.' Fans took to the comment section. One wrote: 'Hes just keeping you grounded!' Another added: 'Haha appreciation belch?' A different fan wrote: 'Haha I'm howling'. Last month, Florence was announced as the brand new face of Maison Valentino. The actress posed for a series of striking snaps while modelling the luxury fashion house's latest collection of bags and shoes. Sharing her joy at being part of the campaign, Florence wrote on Instagram: 'As you can see.. Im pretty shocked and ecstatic to announce that my Maison Valentino campaign is here. 'Truly an honour to continue creating art with my family at Valentino. Working with talented people is one thing, but to work with talented people who are great friends feeds the soul! 'This campaign truly did feed the soul. Thank you for letting me be me.' Whoops: Florence was filming the various pictures from the photoshoot as she headed through the airport, only to be rudely interrupted by a man passing wind Stunning: Last month, Florence was announced as the brand new face of Maison Valentino Looking good: The actress posed for a series of striking snaps while modelling the luxury fashion house's latest collection of bags and shoes She added: '@pppiccioli cheers and love and so much thanks to the past, the current and the future. Im fucking proud of this one.' The actress has appeared regularly in Valentino and has attracted praise for her fashion choices. At the Oscars ceremony last month, she appeared on the red carpet in a voluminous off-white gown by the brand, and she also turned to the designer for a quirky take on a black tie outfit for the premiere of her latest film, A Good Person, in New York. Florence is said to be dating Charlie Gooch, a friend from her Oxford schooldays, after ending her three-year relationship with actor and director Zach Braff, 47. Penelope Cruz looked sensational as she filmed a commercial on the streets of Madrid in Spain on Tuesday. The actress, 49, put on a leggy display as she wore a green mini dress while filming at a flower stall. Screen star Penelope's dress finished high above her knee and he skirt featured a loosely ruffled hem. The garment was left unbuttoned at the collar and featured large silver buttons at the top. She completed her look by wearing a pair of lighter green shoes with chunky soles. In style: Penelope Cruz, 49, looked sensational in a green dress as she filmed a commercial on the streets of Madrid in Spain on Tuesday Fashion focus: The actress put on a leggy display as she wore a green mini dress while filming at a flower stall Movie star Penelope wore lashings of make-up to highlight her pretty features, opting for some dramatic black eyeliner. She could be seen surrounded by some beautiful, colourful blooms on a market stall as she filmed. It comes following the news that Scarlett Johansson and Penelope may be working together again. The actresses memorably kissed in Woody Allen's love triangle story Vicky Cristina Barcelona with Javier Bardem from 2008. Now Scarlett and Penelope are in talks to work with Michael Fassbender and Owen Wilson in a Netflix film from director Nancy Meyers. The big-budget movie is currently titled Paris Paramount. It tells the story of an above-the-line filmmaking duo who begrudgingly reunite on set after falling in and out of love with one another. Nancy is directing from her own script and also serves as a producer on the film. Strike a pose: Screen star Penelope's dress finished high above her knee and he skirt featured a loosely ruffled hem This marks her first behind the camera since the 2015 flick The Intern. That drama starred Robert DeNiro as the intern and Anne Hathaway as his type A boss. Sources say that actor deals for Paris Paramount are yet to be sealed as budgeting on the project is still being worked out. Netflix has not commented on the news. Alec Baldwin has undergone a hip replacement surgery. The Oscar-nominated actor, 65, was seen in a medical gown while in a hospital bed, posing with his wife Hilaria, 39, who opened up about her spouse's medical procedure in an Instagram post on Tuesday. 'Alec got a new hip todayit was a long time necessary,' Hilaria, who is mother to seven children with the actor, said on the social media site. The yoga expert said that she was happy for her husband as he underwent the medical procedure in hopes of improving his 'quality of life. 'We have been through so much together as your partner and as you heal, I want so very much for you to leave this very intense chronic pain chapter behind.' The latest: Alec Baldwin, 65, has undergone a hip replacement surgery, his wife Hilaria, 39, said Tuesday on Instagram. The Oscar-nominated actor was seen in a medical gown while in a hospital bed, posing with his spouse She thanked the team of doctors working on her husband, as well as the nurses, medical staff 'and the other amazing people who so generously are bringing him safely through this.' Alec thanked Hilaria in a comment in the thread, saying, 'And you. Thanks to you.' The couple are parents to seven children: Carmen, nine, Rafael, seven, Leonardo, six, Romeo, five, Maria, two, Eduardo, two, and Ilaria, eight months. Alec earlier this month became a grandfather for the first time as his eldest child, daughter Ireland, 27, welcomed daughter Holland with her partner, musician RAC, 38. Alec's surgery comes at the end of a busy month for him, as he recently finished working on the movie Rust, the film he was making in October of 2021 when a gun he was holding fired, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. 'Last day on the set of RUST with this guy,' he said in a May 15 post alongside costar Patrick Scott McDermott, 14. 'A very talented actor and lovely young man with a bright future ahead. My love to you, @patrickscottmcdermott.' Alec said in a subsequent social media post marking the end of filming that it was 'nothing less than a miracle' that filmmakers completed the movie more than a year-and-a-half following the shooting of Hutchins. Alec and wife Hilaria are parents to seven children, all under the age of 10 Alec's surgery comes at the end of a busy month for him, as he recently finished working on the movie Rust. Pictured May 15 with costar Patrick Scott McDermott, 14 In the wake of the tragic incident - in which the film's director Joel Souza was also wounded - there was considerable skepticism the project would move forward amid a number of legal issues. Baldwin was subsequently charged in New Mexico with two counts of involuntary manslaughter, but the charges were later dropped and he continued working on the motion picture in Montana. In October of 2022, Baldwin and his fellow producers on the Western came to a settlement with Hutchins' widower Matthew Hutchins over his wrongful death suit filed over the shooting. Beyonce looked sensational on Thursday when she poured her incredible figure into a shimmering burgundy minidress to nail another jaw-dropping performance in London. The 41-year-old megastar who looked like a queen in a royal blue gown earlier this week dominated the stage in her busty creation, matching gloves and knee-high boots. Beyonce didn't stop with her burgundy costume, as she slipped into a number of show-stopping looks that included a crimson bodysuit, a futuristic leotard and a psychedelic minidress. The 32-time Grammy winner kicked off her London stint of shows on Monday evening and has blown her massive fanbase away with breathtaking performances. She is currently performing at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium until June 4 amid her blockbuster Renaissance world tour. Queen Bey in burgundy: Beyonce, 41, looked sensational on Thursday when she poured her incredible figure into a shimmering burgundy minidress to nail another jaw-dropping performance in London Fashion icon: The megastar dominated the stage in her busty creation, matching gloves and knee-high boots The icon has dazzled fans with her unbelievable array of on-stage designer outfits and a set list jam-packed with some of her best known hits, from Love On Top to Formation. She has reportedly hired 12 seamstresses to work on her intricate outfits backstage specifically for her week-long stint of London shows. The hitmaker is said to be paying them 'tens of thousands' to repair clothes she has already worn and adjust her brand new outfits to perfect her extensive wardrobe. A source told The Sun: 'Beyonce has enlisted all of the best seamstresses in London. She has more people working on her wardrobe than some major designers do. 'It is costing tens of thousands but she feels it's worth it for the spectacle of her tour, she wants to renew her outfits constantly.' Ahead of festival season, other stars are reportedly not 'pleased' about her hiring the best specialists in the industry for an entire week as they are getting ready for their own shows. The source claimed: 'One manager was tearing his hair out trying to find someone to fix a pair of designer shoes and had to dash down to a cobbler himself in the hope of getting it sorted because everyone else has been booked up by Bey.' Her statement stage outfits have included glittering catsuits and gorgeous metallic corsets and minidresses by a slew of designers like Alexander McQueen, Loewe and David Koma. Gorgeous: Queen Bey's lustrous honey-colored locks were styled in voluminous waves On her throne: Turning a metallic grand piano into a throne, Beyonce belted out her biggest hits and gave her London fans another breathtaking performance Show-stopping: The 32-time Grammy winner kicked off her London stint of shows on Monday evening and has blown her massive fanbase away in the UK On her first night in London, Beyonce sent the crowds wild when her eldest child Blue Ivy appeared on stage alongside her. The Crazy In Love hitmaker was seen dancing and singing alongside Blue Ivy, 11, at Tottenham Hotspur's stadium. Her husband and Blue Ivy's father Jay-Z proudly watched from the audience, alongside celebrity guests Kris Jenner and Dua Lipa. Beyonce looked every inch the proud mother as she watched Blue Ivy perform to Kendrick Lamar's track Alright. Beyonce previously brought Blue Ivy out on stage in Paris as her eldest child joined the professional dancers to perform the choreography to My Power. She shares Blue Ivy and twins Rumi and Sir, five, with husband Jay-Z and gushed over her eldest child in an Instagram post after her on-stage appearance. Sharing snaps from the special night, Beyonce penned: 'My beautiful first born. I'm so proud and thankful to be your mama. You bring us so much joy, my sweet angel.' Her full setlist has been revealed as she is set to impress fans with a whole host of her smash hits, including Formation, Run The World (Girls) and Love on Top. Epic: Beyonce didn't stop with her burgundy costume, as she slipped into a number of show-stopping looks that included a crimson bodysuit Incredible: The icon has dazzled fans with her unbelievable array of on-stage designer outfits and she has reportedly hired 12 seamstresses to work on her intricate outfits backstage specifically for her week-long stint of London shows Living legend: The hitmaker is said to be paying her massive team of seamstresses 'tens of thousands' to repair clothes she has already worn and adjust her brand new outfits to perfect her extensive wardrobe Conquering London: Beyonce is currently performing at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium until June 4 amid her blockbuster Renaissance world tour Turning it out: The superstar songstress kicks off her concerts with a live rendition of Dangerously In Love, followed by Flaws and All and 1+1 Superstar: Amid her epic 40-song setlist, Beyonce also performs the likes of Haunted, Diva, Crazy In Love, Drunk In Love, Black Parade and Partition Beyonce kicks off her concerts with a live rendition of Dangerously In Love, followed by Flaws and All and 1+1. She then wows the crowd with a cover of Mary J Blige's hit I Care/I'm Goin' Down, before going on to perform I'm That Girl, Cozy and a medley of Alien Superstar/Sweet Dreams. Amid her epic 40-song setlist, Beyonce also performs the likes of Haunted, Diva, Crazy In Love, Drunk In Love, Black Parade and Partition. She then closes the jam-packed show with her popular tracks Blow and Summer Renaissance. She was first thrust into the limelight at just six months old before becoming one of the main faces on Toddlers & Tiaras. And Eden Wood looked unrecognisable as she made a rare appearance on Channel Seven's The Morning Show on Wednesday. The 18-year-old was all grown up as she revealed she recently graduated high school and is now planning to study broadcast journalism. 'I've waited four years, I've worked so hard. I actually graduated valedictorian of my class so that was such an accomplishment for all that work and all those years to pay off,' she said. Eden, who has claimed more than 300 titles during her time as a child beauty queen, said she wants to study something that she loves. Toddlers & Tiaras star Eden Wood looked unrecognisable as she made a rare TV appearance to discuss her next steps after graduating high school on Wednesday She continued: 'I have my heart set on [studying] broadcast journalism. I've always been in front of the camera. I've always been the one being interviewed so I think it would be cool to switch positions and be on the other side.' Eden was one of the main stars on Toddlers & Tiaras, which followed girls competing in child beauty pageants. Her mother Mickie previously discussed the lengths she went to in order to prepare her daughter for the stage - which included spray tans, outfits and make-up. The 18-year-old was all grown up as she revealed she recently graduated high school and is now planning to study broadcast journalism 'I've waited four years, I've worked so hard. I actually graduated valedictorian of my class so that was such an accomplishment for all that work and all those years to pay off,' she said Speaking on an episode of the show shared on YouTube by TLC, she estimated that she had shelled out: 'Probably around $65,000 or $70,000.' Similarly, Heather Ryan, who acted as manager for the mother-daughter duo, added: 'Mickie doesn't penny pinch when it comes to pageant stuff. 'Now she's spent enough on wardrobe and pictures to pretty much feed every child in Botswana.' Mickie announced in 2011 that Eden would no longer be competing in pageants so she could instead focus on forging a career in Hollywood. Julia Fox returned from the Cannes Film Festival on Tuesday and took fans through her 'second-hand vintage' fashion haul from Paris. The 33-year-old style maven who recently wore a see-through dress made of hair and melted plastic treated her TikTok followers to a short video that showed off multiple skimpy looks. Julia came back from the City of Light with a variety of sheer, busty, and belly-baring styles that flaunted her fit physique. One highlight was a black lace lingerie top with matching black pants that featured a peek-a-boo backside, allowing the bombshell to flash her perky buttocks. Fox also modeled a stylish mix of shirts and edgy pants, putting together eccentric ensembles that will no doubt turn heads on the streets of her native New York City. Skimpy finds: Julia Fox returned from the Cannes Film Festival on Tuesday and took fans through her 'second-hand vintage' fashion haul from Paris Toned and fashionable: The 33-year-old style maven treated her TikTok followers to a short video that showed off multiple skimpy looks The performer has become famous for taking major risks when it comes to her personal aesthetic, which have propelled her onto the global fashion scene. However, Fox recently slammed fashion's biggest night during an exclusive interview with DailyMail.com. She believes that the Met Gala has moved away from its roots and is now a show of overt nepotism. 'If it was about fashion I'd be there but it's not. It's about politics, privilege, who your parents are and how much money you make,' Fox stated. Then the fashionista said that she wanted to serve as an inspiration for future designers looking to make radical decisions within their craft: 'I just want to tell people, "Don't aspire to be like these people [who went to the Met], aspire to be yourself." 'There's a little boy or girl out there [who] will look at me and not be ashamed fashion and art is about vision,' she said. Fox also floated the idea of creating her own fashion-forward event that could potentially rival the Met Gala: 'I want to support fashion designers. Me and my friends are hoping to start our own gala and help funds disadvantaged people and single mothers,' she declared. At an event in Cannes, Julia revealed that she is in pre-production on a movie called Lipstick Palm, which she co-wrote with her friend Sara Apple. Peek-a-boo: One highlight was a black lace lingerie top with matching black pants that featured a peek-a-boo backside, allowing the bombshell to flash her perky buttocks Hidden gems: The Uncut Gems star bought an anonymous black shirt with a cross that she 'loved,' and she also found a Dior shirt with delicate black embroidery Sultry: Julia embraced a bordello vibe with her JPG capris and pants and sultry corset top. She also found a Gaultier mesh dress that was 'a little more expensive' than the rest of her finds Covering up: Julia eventually covered up in a black Mugler blazer. The fashionista also found a 69 bomber jacket, corduroy pants and warm lumberjack hat Fox described the movie as 'Weekend at Bernie's meets Spring Breakers.' 'It's about these two girls and they are in LA,' Fox told Page Six on a yacht for the charity Art of Elysium at Cannes. She added: 'They are classic. One is an aspiring actress, and the other is a nepotism baby but her dad had like seven kids, so the pool has been diluted. They're drug addicts, so they are in recovery, but they are always in and out. One has a sugar daddy.' 'There is a dead body involved somewhere,' she deadpanned. Rumours are swirling Carrie Bickmore has grown close to her Hit FM co-host Tommy Little following her split from partner of 11 years Chris Walker. And the pair are currently together in Far North Queensland for the 'Cannes in Cairns' event. On Tuesday, Carrie and Tommy joined radio host Abbie Chatfield and executive head at LiSTNR Commercial Seb Rennie on stage to discuss their successful careers. Abbie shared a photo to Instagram of herself posing alongside the former Project stars at the festival. However, guest speakers Carrie and Tommy haven't actively promoted the event on their social media pages. Inside Carrie Bickmore and Tommy Little's 'secret trip' to Cairns as they attend event together amid rumours they're 'getting close' There was also no mention of the event on Carrie and Tommy's radio show's Instagram account. It comes amid reports Carrie has grown close to Tommy, who is also single following his breakup with girlfriend Natalie Kyriacou in 2021. Tommy rushed to the mother-of-three's side in January when she confirmed her split, leading insiders to speculate their friendship could evolve into something more. In recent months Tommy has shared several gushing tributes to Carrie on Instagram, and in one post called her the 'best in the business' who 'lifts up everyone around her and makes them look good'. Ahead of her last day on The Project last November, Tommy also treated the blonde bombshell to a private helicopter ride across Melbourne. On Tuesday, Carrie and Tommy joined radio host Abbie Chatfield and executive head at LiSTNR Commercial Seb Rennie on stage to discuss their successful careers He is often seen close to her at glitzy events, including the 2022 Australian Commercial Radio Awards (ACRAs) last October, where he didn't leave her side even as guests got up from their tables and mingled with others. The duo are regularly seen posing for cosy selfies on social media, which has prompted curious fans to question whether romance is on the cards. 'You guys make a lovely couple,' one recently commented on a photo of the pair. 'Get a room already, you two,' another said. It's not hard to see why fans are hoping for love to blossom, as Tommy and Carrie are already known for their electric chemistry. Abbie shared a photo to Instagram of herself posing alongside the former Project stars at the festival Their professional relationship began in 2016 when Tommy joined Carrie on the panel of The Project. A year later, the pair began co-hosting Hit Network's Melbourne drive show in 2017, and immediately gained a cult following thanks to their entertaining and organic banter. Carrie announced her split from her longtime partner Chris in January this year via Instagram, saying the pair are focused on co-parenting their three children, Ollie, 15, Evie, seven, and Adelaide, four. Princess Mary's nephew Count Nikolai of Denmark is moving to Australia to go to university, months after being striped of his royal HRH title by his grandmother. Handsome model Nikolai, 23, will study at UTS in Sydney for a semester, accompanied by his glamorous designer girlfriend Benedikte Thoustrup. The pair live together in Copenhagen and are set to move to Sydney to study from August 1 to November 30. Nikolai, whose father is Prince Joachim of Denmark, is seventh in line to the Danish throne. In March, Count Nikolai of Denmark launched a new Instagram account to promote his modelling career after being stripped of his 'HRH' status by his grandmother, Queen Margrethe. It was a tumultuous year for the Danish Royal Family after the monarch controversially took the title from Prince Joachim's eldest son, as well as also taking the prince and princess titles from his younger children Athena, 11, Prince Felix, 20, and Prince Henrik, 13. Princess Mary's nephew Count Nikolai of Denmark is moving to Australia. Handsome model Nikolai, 23, will study at UTS for a semester alongside his glamorous designer girlfriend, Benedikte Thoustrup (pictured) Pictured is Tasmanian-born Mary, Crown Princess of Denmark, who is married to Frederik, the Crown Prince of Denmark and is aunt to young Nikolai The model and uni student lives in Denmark but has jetted around the world to walk for designers in Paris and London. He has also appeared on the cover of Vogue Scandinavia Count Nikolai of Denmark is pictured walking in the Burberry show at London Fashion Week back in 2018. In March, he launched a new Instagram account to promote his modelling career after being stripped of his 'HRH' status by his grandmother, Queen Margrethe They are now Counts and Countess and referred to as Their Excellencies - and in January this year the Danish Royal Family updated their website to show the new status. The Queen insisted the move will be 'good for them in their future' and allow the children - who have maintained their positions in the line of succession - to 'shape their own lives without being limited by the special considerations and duties' that a formal affiliation with the Danish Royal Family involves. The news of the royal's arrival in Australia was confirmed to Danish publication B.T. by press advisor Helle von Wildenrath Lvgreen. B.T. reports the pair are currently looking for a Sydney apartment to live in and both have studied at the Copenhagen Business School and in Paris on exchange. It was a tumultuous year for the Danish Royal Family after the monarch controversial took the title from Prince Joachim's eldest son, as well as taking the prince and princess titles from his younger children Athena, 11, Prince Felix, 20, and Prince Henrik, 13 (all pictured) Following his grandmother's move to strip him and his siblings of their titles 'for their own good', Count Nikolai said that he was sad, shocked and confused. 'My whole family and I are of course very sad. We are, as my parents have also stated, in shock at this decision and at how quickly it has actually gone,' he told Danish newspaper Extrabladet. 'I am very confused as to why it has to happen like this,' he told reporters from outside the Copenhagen apartment where he lives with his girlfriend. Following his grandmother's move to strip him and his siblings of their titles 'for their own good', Nikolai said that he was sad, shocked and confused Countess Alexandra, mother to Count Nikolai and Count Felix, was also 'very sad' and 'shocked' about the decision. 'She can't believe why and why now, because there's no good reason,' Helle von Wildenrath Lvgreen, press secretary to Countess Alexandra told CNN. 'They would lose their titles anyway when they get married one day. 'Her sons are young men so maybe they might get married in the near future so why shouldn't it wait until that day so that the titles would disappear on a happy day?' Prince Joachim told Ekstra Bladet that his children had been 'hurt' by the decision - and claimed he had only been given a few days to break the news to them before the announcement was made publicly. Prince Joachim, the brother of Frederik, Crown Prince of Denmark, is now married to Princess Marie of Denmark. Influencer Morgan Waterhouse has broken his silence after attending a controversial Melbourne nightclub relaunch which featured live reptiles and a baby crocodile. The boyfriend of beauty queen and model Olivia Molly Rogers, took to Instagram on Wednesday to apologise for his behaviour and said he 'acknowledges the use of animals is inappropriate'. 'Over the weekend I attended a private event which included live reptiles. I acknowledge that use of animals as a promotional tool is inappropriate,' he began. 'I deeply regret posting the content and apologise for the hurt I have caused anyone.' 'I truly love animals and would never cause intentional harm. I am taking time to better educate myself and will do better moving forward.' Olivia Molly Rogers' new boyfriend Morgan Waterhouse has broken his silence on 'animal cruelty' allegations after attending controversial Melbourne nightclub relaunch Photos from the bash at popular South Yarra club Two Wrongs show several influencers - including Morgan - excitedly holding snakes and baby crocodiles. One image which has drawn particular ire shows two glamorous woman with a snake draped across their shoulders as they preen for the camera. But all evidence of the event has since vanished from the bar's Instagram account after the photos copped a barrage of abuse online. Morgan shared a photo of himself cradling a tiny crocodile and another with a large snake wrapped around his neck. The model took to Instagram to apologise for his behaviour and said he 'acknowledges the use of animals is inappropriate' Influencer Britt Reukers posted snaps of someone kissing one of the baby crocs to her IG Stories. Meanwhile another attendee shared a photo of her and a friend holding a snake around their necks. While the photos were deleted from the club's Instagram page, Influencer Opinions was quick to save screenshots of the now deleted photos and share them on their own page. It sparked a barrage of outraged comments from social media users who were unsettled by the use of the reptiles as 'props' for photos. Morgan attended the relaunch of a Melbourne nightclub slammed for bringing live reptiles and a baby crocodile over the weekend 'Use of animals as a promotional tool in an incredibly frightening environment for them is disgusting and cruel,' one person wrote. 'Passing around animals in a bar is just cruel. Great rebrand,' another said. 'Those poor animals would have been so frightened,' a third commented, while one wrote: 'This is ridiculous. Terrible environment for these animals.' One person said: 'This makes me feel sick. Absolutely disgusting.' 'Literally disgusting! People and companies will do anything for publicity these days,' another said Deborah Mailman is set to return in the second and final season of the critically acclaimed ABC drama Total Control. The popular 50-year-old will again co-star with Rachel Griffiths, 55, in the series, which is set amongst Australia's power brokers. Filming has already commenced on the 12 part series, which picks up the story two years after the events of season one reports, TV Blackbox. This season sees Indigenous activist-turned-politician Alex (Mailman) clashing with the former Prime Minister, Rachel Anderson (Griffiths). Rachel wants to form a breakaway political party. Meanwhile, Alex battles to survive a public controversy that could destroy her career, after launching a nation changing policy. Deborah Mailman is set to return in the second and final season of the critically acclaimed ABC drama Total Control. The popular 50-year-old will again co-star with Rachel Griffiths, 55, in the series, which is set amongst Australia's power brokers This season sees Indigenous activist-turned-politician Alex (Mailman) clashing with the former Prime Minister, Rachel Anderson (Griffiths). Pictured: Mailman in season one of Total Control As Alex tries to survive, she learns whether its possible to fight off her enemies - without losing her integrity. Co-starring will be Rob Collins from RFDS, Wayne Blair (The Sapphires), and Anthony Hayes (Mystery Road). Wesley Patten (Total Control, S1), Steph Tisdell, Daniela Farinacci, Lisa Flanagan, and Benedict Hardie are also featured. Meanwhile, Anita Hegh, Huw Higginson and Trisha Morton-Thomas will also be returning for the second series. In season two Rachel wants to form a breakaway political party. Pictured: Rachel Griffiths in a scene from season of one of Total Control Joining the cast will be Catherine McClements (Rake), Fayssal Bazzi (East West 101), Josef Ber (Rush), Lisa Hensley (All Saints), Rosie Lourde, and Maya Stange. Total Control season one debuted on the ABC in 2019. The plot centred on Mailman's character Alex who fights to improve conditions for her community. Production of the show will take place over three months on locations in Sydney, Canberra and Trangie, a town in regional NSW. Wayne Blair and Jub Clar will share directing duties across the dozen episodes. Candice Swanepoel was active on TikTok Tuesday as she shared a sultry video of herself swimming. The 34-year-old South African supermodel who has been romantically linked to Harry Styles donned a stringy black bikini that showed off her stellar figure. The former Victoria's Secret Angel floated effortlessly through a body of water as she modeled the two-piece. She wrote in a caption, 'summer feels,' along with a mermaid emoji and the hashtag '#oceano.' Candice soundtracked the 16-second snippet to a instrumental of the 2014 hit song Latch by Disclosure and Sam Smith. New post: Candice Swanepoel was active on TikTok Tuesday as she shared a sultry video of herself swimming Teeny: The 34-year-old South African supermodel donned a stringy black bikini that showed off her stellar figure Swanepoel is the founder and creative director of the swimwear collection, which is 'influenced by nature and the female form.' On Tuesday Candice also appeared on Instagram, sharing with fans her June 2023 Vogue Arabia cover. The stunner appears on the glossy in a striking image that shows her with long, teased, voluminous blonde hair. She looks ravishing as she poses against a clean, light-colored backdrop wearing a lavender dress by Yousef Akbar. In her caption Candice tagged the publication and added a purple heart emoji before running down a list of credits. Taking to her Stories, she shared a behind-the-scenes photo from the shoot, in which she's sitting in a makeup chair. With her legs crossed and her face fully done, snapped a mirror selfie. The mother-of-two wrote over the image, 'In a Barbie world.' In another upload the bombshell beauty posted a close-up shot from the photo shoot. She stunned as she flaunted her impeccable makeup, which featured bronze-contoured cheeks and powder blue eyeshadow. Swanepoel was the epitome of a vixen as her bright locks fell over one of her eyes, making for a sultry capture. It comes as rumors swirl that the runway regular is being romanced by pop star Harry Styles. The 29-year-old As It Was crooner has reportedly been connecting with the Victoria's Secret star, making this the seventh time he has dated a model associated with the brand. A source told The Sun: 'Harry is one of the biggest music superstars in the world so it's not surprising supermodels are lining up to date him. 'He's got history with Victoria's Secret models and has been linked to six others who have all walked in their fashion show. BTS: Taking to her Stories, she shared a behind-the-scenes photo from the Vogue Arabia shoot in which she's sitting in a makeup chair New flame? Candice's latest posts come amid rumors that she is being romanced by pop star Harry Styles Harry and Candice initially met in Shanghai when he performed at the Victoria's Secret show in 2017. Harry ended a nearly two-year relationship with actress and director Olivia Wilde last November. And in March he was recorded making out with supermodel Emily Ratajkowski on a street in Tokyo, Japan. The pop star has not confirmed a romance with anyone since ending things with Wilde. The moment Phillip Schofield downed whisky with his younger lover on This Morning has resurfaced. During the Christmas-themed segment in 2016, Schofield and co-host Holly Willoughby were trying out alternative advent calendars while Schofield's lover - who worked as a runner on ITV - was in the background dressed as an elf. After former Emmerdale actress Natalie Anderson showed them a whisky advent calendar worth 1,000, the hosts were quick to try out a bottle themselves. With Schofield delighted by the 'smooth' drink, he turned to his festively dressed lover and asked, 'Do you want some?!' After the younger man took a sip, he joked: 'Let's get the elf smashed!' The clip has resurfaced as ITV bosses face further questions about what they knew of Schofields affair with his colleague. The moment Phillip Schofield downed whisky with his younger lover on This Morning during a Christmas-themed segment in 2016 has resurfaced READ MORE - DAN WOOTTON reveals the email sent to ITV's boss three years ago that lifted lid on affair Advertisement READ MORE - Eamonn Holmes blasts ITV bosses for letting Phil and Holly appear drunk on air Advertisement It has been claimed that the younger lover received a financial settlement from the broadcaster. The Daily Mail has been told that he was given a payment following the end of the on-off relationship, which Schofield described as unwise but not illegal. ITV has repeatedly declined to comment on the alleged pay-off or deny it. There were no comments from a representative of the presenter, who quit the channel on Friday after he revealed to the Daily Mail that he had lied about the affair to our sister paper, The Mail on Sunday. But a source claims that the money was handed to the man, who, after he declared his love for Schofield at an awards ceremony in January 2020, was shunted to another of the networks daytime programmes, Loose Women. He no longer works there. ITV insiders said that at some level, bosses must have known about any payment. One added: There have been numerous pay-offs at ITV and they have always had to be arranged and sanctioned by people of some seniority. The claims come as pressure has increased on the broadcasters chief executive, Dame Carolyn McCall, director of TV Kevin Lygo and head of daytime Emma Gormley to speak out about what they knew. One source at the channel said: This is unravelling fast and there is no evidence to suggest it will come to an end any time soon. Schofield and co-host Holly Willoughby were trying out alternative advent calendars while his lover - who worked as a runner - was in the background dressed as an elf After actress Natalie Anderson showed them a whisky advent calendar worth 1,000, the hosts were quick to try out a bottle themselves Schofield and Ms Willoughby pretending to be hungover on This Morning on January 21, 2016 Timeline of the Phillip Schofield scandal September 2022 - Schofield and Ms Willoughby are criticised for failing to queue for the Queen's Lying in State. April 2023 - Schofield is absent from This Morning for two weeks while his brother Timothy, 54, is tried at Exeter Crown Court for sexually abusing a teenage boy. April 3 - Timothy Schofield is found guilty of 'emotionally blackmailing' the teenager into performing sex acts and watching porn with him. May 10 - Reports emerge that Schofield and Ms Willoughby are 'barely speaking', but a day later he issues a statement calling her 'my rock'. May 15 - The pair present a united front while presenting This Morning, but rumours of a feud continue. The pair are said to have fallen out due to his failure to warn her of his brother's trial. May 20 - Schofield announces he is stepping down from This Morning with 'immediate effect'. May 22 - Stand-in presenters Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond pay tribute to their former colleague as 'one of the best live television broadcasters this country has ever had'. May 26 - Schofield releases a statement admitting he'd had an affair with a 'much younger' colleague but then lied about it. May 27 - Ms Willoughby blasts Schofield for lying to her. May 28 - This Morning's former resident doctor Dr Ranj Singh hits out at the show's 'toxic' culture. May 29 - Schofield releases a statement denying claims the show had a toxic culture, only for Eamonn Holmes to slam him as 'delusional' on Twitter. Holmes later takes to GB News accusing ITV of a 'total cover-up' of Schofield's affair. Advertisement There are a lot of people out there who feel wronged by ITV and they now have the confidence to have their say. 'The house of cards appears to be collapsing - it is anybodys guess where this ends now. It comes after former This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes accused ITV bosses of orchestrating a total cover-up of Schofields affair with his younger lover, saying those in authority had to know about the secret relationship. The pair met when Schofield was in his 50s and giving a talk to a theatre school. At that time, his future lover was 15 and keen to make a career in the TV industry. He moved down to London aged 18 and began working at This Morning, before striking up the secret relationship with the presenter. In an interview on GB News on Monday evening, Holmes, labelled Schofield, 61, chief narcissist who would hit the town on Thursdays for playtime with the young man. He claimed Schofields lover would be ferried between the presenters central London flat and the TV studio in taxis paid for by the network. Holmes said: I didnt know but Ive subsequently found out from a very, very good source, because he would arrive much earlier in the morning than I would for the programme, that he was delivered from Phillips London home. Usually on a Friday morning, because Thursday was playtime when he and Phillip would hit the town and then he obviously stayed overnight. There are records to show that he was brought in the next day separately in cars paid for by ITV. Asked whether the management would had to have known, Holmes replied: Unless Phillip paid the bills separately, but it would still have to go through the accounts office that they would have seen that and known that. Holmes, 63, also claims he approached senior management who worked for Ms McCall to tell them about Schofields relationship with the young production assistant. He said: I had gone to the senior bosses at ITV, people who worked for Carolyn McCall, the chief executive in November 2019, with the story of Phillip having this inappropriate relationship with the young man, and had urged them to investigate because why, at the very least, would you not investigate? I wasnt saying that Phillip was guilty of anything. I was saying you should launch an investigation. READ MORE - Schofield's ad deals evaporate as embattled star is dropped by The Prince's Trust Advertisement Sources close to Schofield hit back at Holmes, saying: If Eamonn Holmes wants to be that cruel to someone in Phillips position then that I think says more about Eamonn than Phillip. ITV is still refusing to give the Daily Mail any further detail of an investigation it insists took place. Sources close to the younger man say it did not ask him about the affair as part of any probe. On Saturday, ITV released a statement which said both parties were questioned and both categorically and repeatedly denied the rumours as did Phillips then agency YMU. ITV will not say whether the investigation was independent and external or who conducted it and when. The scandal is threatening to topple This Morning, the daytime programme which was launched in 1988 and hosted by Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan. Former This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes has accused ITV of orchestrating a 'total cover-up' of Schofield's affair One source on the show said yesterday: There are already conversations taking place between staff about how they are worried that things are going to have to change and where that leaves their jobs. It is a deeply worrying time, but nobody is under the illusion that the show can stay the same. It has to be rebranded because so much trust has gone. In the second part of the interview, which was broadcast last night, Holmes agreed with MailOnline columnist Dan Wootton that if anyone questioned Ms McCalls woke narrative... they are out. ITV bosses are set to be questioned by MPs about the broadcasters handling of Schofields affair when they face the Commons culture committee next Tuesday. Despite the ongoing scandal, Holly Willoughby will return to This Morning on Monday following an extended half-term break which was planned before the scandal broke. A source told MailOnline Ms Willoughby will front the show on Monday as planned. She will be joined by Alison Hammond, according one report. Simon Cowell sported trendy spectacles as he left Britain's Got Talent's second semi-final show with his partner Lauren Silverman and their son Eric on Tuesday evening. The music mogul, 63, looked in good spirits as he left the Hammersmith Apollo in west London, giving fans outside the venue a thumbs up on his way home. The TV judge, 63, looked as suave as ever for the evening as he sported a black suit with a crisp white shirt. He added a touch of flair to his outfit with a trendy pair of square spectacles. Lauren, 45, looked incredible for the evening as she donned an off the shoulder black mini dress. Heading home: Simon Cowell sported trendy spectacles as he left Britain's Got Talent's second semi-final show with his partner Lauren Silverman and their son Eric on Tuesday evening Family affair: Lauren, 45, looked incredible for the evening as she donned an off the shoulder black mini dress The number featured a stylish white border hemline and long sleeves. The socialite let her brunette locks fall loose down her shoulders for the evening and added to her look with silver bracelets and elegant diamond earrings. She finished her look with a flawless palette of make up, including a swipe of pink lip gloss. The couple were joined by their nine-year-old son Eric, who looked smart in a white T-shirt and black blazer. Tuesday night's explosive semi-final saw acts Viggo Venn and Olivia Lynes make it to the grand final of Britain's Got Talent. The two talented acts beat off stiff competition from Yo-Highness, Nathan and Joanne, Lewis Fuller, Tia Connolly, Andrew Stanton and Johns' Boys. Viggo won the public vote, sending him straight through to the final, while the judges were left to choose who joined him, between Olivia and Johns' Boys. New judge Bruno Tonioli began by saving Johns' Boys after he cried during their act, but the other three on the panel opted for Olivia. The 11-year-old was visibly emotional as her mum came on stage to give her a hug, saying: 'I feel speechless'. Viggo quipped: 'I did my best' and broke out into dance once again after being sent through. Support: The couple were joined by their nine-year-old son Eric, who looked smart in a white T-shirt and black blazer The Norwegian won with his very unique act, which involved him recording the judges saying their names, while wearing his iconic Hi-Vis jacket. He called back to his hilarious audition, by stripping off his jacket to Daft Punk's One More Time at the end. Alesha Dixon branded it the 'best act of the night', while Simon confessed: 'It was the most annoying act of the night, but also my favourite.' Earlier in the night, Olivia performed a powerful rendition of Into the Unknown by Idina Menzel from Frozen 2. She sang from a giant crescent moon, levitating over the stage and said of her performance afterwards: 'It felt like a dream come true.' Bruno gushed: 'You are a miracle', while Alesha praised: 'You are meant to do this, it was phenomenal.' Olivia auditioned after Amanda Holden surprised her at the theatre to tell her that her mum and nan had signed her up for her contest. She sang Defying Gravity from Wicked for her audition, which left Bruno fighting back tears and Amanda pressing the golden buzzer. Speaking exclusively to MailOnline after the show, Amanda admitted that she 'had no idea Olivia could sing' when she met her the previous day. Amanda explained: 'So I didn't know if I was allowed to press it for her because Id actually met her the day before as part of our golden moments and encouraged her to come down and audition.' The presenter continued: 'But when I met her I had no idea if she could sing, and then was absolutely blown away by her performance. 'And it's just so typical of what I would press my buzzer for. I was almost like, "Oh my god. It's going to have to be this because I love it. She is amazing.' Viggo Venn and Olivia Lynes will come head-to-head with fellow finalists Musa Motha and Amy Lou on June 4, where they will fight for a cash prize of 250,000 and a spot in the annual Royal Variety Performance. Congrats! Viggo Venn (pictured) and Olivia Lynes have made it to the grand final of Britain's Got Talent after surviving the explosive semi-final on Tuesday night Arctic Monkeys delighted their hardcore fans by adding a surprise to their setlist as they made their long-awaited return to the big stage. The Sheffield-based band performed in Bristol on Monday night as they marked the start of their UK stadium tour. And it was a special night for their fans as they performed their 2006 hit Mardy Bum for the first time in ten years. The band are busy promoting their latest album, The Car, and are set to perform in Coventry on Wednesday night, before heading to Manchester for two performances. They will also perform in Norwich, Sheffield, Swansea, Southampton, London and Dublin, before ending their tour in Glasgow on June 25. Iconic: Arctic Monkeys delighted hardcore fans by adding a surprise to their setlist as they made their long-awaited return to the big stage in Bristol on Monday Idols: Alex Turner, Matthew Helders, Jamie Cook and Nick O'Malley pictured back in 2008 - the band performed fan favourites on the first night of their tour, including much-loved hit Mardy Bum LadBible reported that in Bristol, the band performed 21 songs and most of them were fan favourites, with only three from the new album. They wrote that they also treated fans to the first performance of My Propeller in close to a decade. They also belted out 505, Arabella, Teddy Picker, The View From The Afternoon and Fluorescent Adolescent, before ending with I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor and R U Mine?. Arctic Monkeys are set to headline Glastonbury this year along with Guns N' Roses and Elton John. Glastonbury Festival's full line-up and stage times were revealed on Monday. The festival - which takes place from June 21-25 at Somersets Worthy Farm, will see the likes of Queens Of The Stone Age, Skepta and The Chemical Brothers joining the already confirmed headline acts. Other artists performing at the event include Royal Blood, Caroline Polachek and Digga D, as the entire line-up has now been announced. Rock duo Royal Blood will play before Arctic Monkeys on Friday. And unknown act, The ChurnUps are also on the line-up with many believing it is the band, Pulp. Glastonbury full line-up and stage times revealed! The Queens Of The Stone Age, Skepta and The Chemical Brothers were announced as part of the festival on Monday The Repair Shop is returning to the BBC for four new episodes in June. The shows will include two special programmes marking the 75th anniversary of both the Empire Windrushs arrival to the UK and the birth of the NHS. The brand-new series kicks off by welcoming Poet Laureate Simon Armitage CBE to the barn. He hopes organ restorer David Burville can revive his treasured harmonium, the subject of one of his poems. For Simon, the instrument holds precious memories of his late father Peter, a creative man who encouraged Simons own artistic journey. Amongst the other treasures through the barn doors is an early sculpture steeped in history by an eminent Czech artist, a pair of childs leather clogs and a silver charm bracelet thats sadly lost most of its charm. Return: The Repair Shop is returning to the BBC for four new episodes in June Show: The shows will include two special programmes marking the 75th anniversary of both the Empire Windrushs arrival to the UK and the birth of the NHS (a still from the NHS special) Episode two sees a seized-up ventriloquists dummy thats over a hundred years old being revamped by expert team Kirsten Ramsay, David Burville and the Teddy Bear Ladies, whilst a revived brass cornet brings back precious memories. Also, undergoing a triumphant transformation is a Roman-style leather chair, restored by upholsterer Sonnaz Nooranvary, and a one-off, handmade notebook recording information gathered whilst birdwatching, a natural fit for book restorer Chris Shaw. The third programme marks the 75th anniversary of the arrival of the Empire Windrush to the UK with the experts fixing four items that celebrate the contribution of the Windrush generation and their descendants a British passport that tells a special tale of a fathers heritage, a suitcase known as a Grip, filled with memories of a journey of opportunity and adventure, and a precious clock that represents building a life in a new land. The barns final visitor of the day is Patrick Vernon OBE who led the successful campaign for 22nd June to be recognised annually as Windrush Day. He brings a radiogram that once belonged to his late friend Eddie Noble, a Second World War British-Jamaican veteran who settled in the UK following his service in the RAF. This series will end with a special celebration of the 75th birthday of the NHS, featuring former Childrens Laureate and acclaimed author Michael Rosen with a patient diary that was kept by NHS nurses whilst he was in a 40-day induced coma with Covid at the start of the Pandemic. The modern spiral notebook is Michaels only record of this time when family members were unable to visit. Along with the notebook, Michael has brought the many letters, drawings and notes that his young fans sent to him whilst he was in hospital. Episode: The brand-new series kicks off by welcoming Poet Laureate Simon Armitage CBE (pictured) to the barn Presenter Jay Blades said: 'The stories and repairs in these four programmes are incredible and as ever we're super proud of the team' Currently being stored in a messy bundle, Chris Shaw gets to work to create a more fitting tribute for the thoughtful artwork leaving the usually eloquent Michael momentarily lost for words. Presenter Jay Blades, said: 'We cannot wait to share these four new peak episodes with you! We were honoured to welcome Poet Laureate Simon Armitage to the barn, and our two specials for Windrush and the NHS are also incredible. 'Meeting Patrick Vernon OBE who has done so much to commemorate an important part of black British history has been a personal high. 'And it was so moving for us to repair acclaimed author Michael Rosen's important document of his time in hospital during Covid. 'Generally, the stories and repairs in these four programmes are incredible and as ever we're super proud of the team.' The Repair Shop returns to BBC One and BBC iPlayer on June 7th at 8pm. The This Morning social media accounts have stayed under the radar with no posts since Phillip Schofield admitted to having an affair with a younger colleague. While there are usually daily updates on the programme, the This Morning TikTok, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages have remained inactive since Friday. The last post shared by all the accounts was a clip from an interview with supermodel Elle Macpherson. Later that day, Schofield admitting to his affair with a mea culpa statement. While the official accounts have remained untouched, social media has been awash with uncovered moments featuring Schofield and his ex lover. Blackout: The This Morning social media accounts have stayed under the radar with no posts since Phillip Schofield admitted to having an affair with a younger colleague Confession: The last post shared by all the accounts was on Friday. Later that day, Schofield admitting to his affair with a mea culpa statement Most recently a video of the pair downing whisky together on This Morning in 2016 resurfaced. During the Christmas-themed segment, Schofield and co-host Holly Willoughby were trying out alternative advent calendars while Schofield's lover - who worked as a runner on ITV - was in the background dressed as an elf. After former Emmerdale actress Natalie Anderson showed them a whisky advent calendar worth 1,000, the hosts were quick to try out a bottle themselves. With Schofield delighted by the 'smooth' drink, he turned to his festively dressed lover and asked, 'Do you want some?!' After the younger man took a sip, he joked: 'Let's get the elf smashed!' The clip has resurfaced as ITV bosses face further questions about what they knew of Schofields affair with his colleague. It has been claimed that the younger lover received a financial settlement from the broadcaster. The Daily Mail has been told that he was given a payment following the end of the on-off relationship, which Schofield described as unwise but not illegal. ITV has repeatedly declined to comment on the alleged pay-off or deny it. There were no comments from a representative of the presenter, who quit the channel on Friday after he revealed to the Daily Mail that he had lied about the affair to our sister paper, The Mail on Sunday. But a source claims that the money was handed to the man, who, after he declared his love for Schofield at an awards ceremony in January 2020, was shunted to another of the networks daytime programmes, Loose Women. He no longer works there. The moment Phillip Schofield downed whisky with his younger lover on This Morning during a Christmas-themed segment in 2016 has resurfaced Schofield and Ms Willoughby pretending to be hungover on This Morning on January 21, 2016 ITV insiders said that at some level, bosses must have known about any payment. One added: There have been numerous pay-offs at ITV and they have always had to be arranged and sanctioned by people of some seniority. The claims come as pressure has increased on the broadcasters chief executive, Dame Carolyn McCall, director of TV Kevin Lygo and head of daytime Emma Gormley to speak out about what they knew. One source at the channel said: This is unravelling fast and there is no evidence to suggest it will come to an end any time soon. There are a lot of people out there who feel wronged by ITV and they now have the confidence to have their say. Timeline of the Phillip Schofield scandal September 2022 - Schofield and Ms Willoughby are criticised for failing to queue for the Queen's Lying in State. April 2023 - Schofield is absent from This Morning for two weeks while his brother Timothy, 54, is tried at Exeter Crown Court for sexually abusing a teenage boy. April 3 - Timothy Schofield is found guilty of 'emotionally blackmailing' the teenager into performing sex acts and watching porn with him. May 10 - Reports emerge that Schofield and Ms Willoughby are 'barely speaking', but a day later he issues a statement calling her 'my rock'. May 15 - The pair present a united front while presenting This Morning, but rumours of a feud continue. The pair are said to have fallen out due to his failure to warn her of his brother's trial. May 20 - Schofield announces he is stepping down from This Morning with 'immediate effect'. May 22 - Stand-in presenters Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond pay tribute to their former colleague as 'one of the best live television broadcasters this country has ever had'. May 26 - Schofield releases a statement admitting he'd had an affair with a 'much younger' colleague but then lied about it. May 27 - Ms Willoughby blasts Schofield for lying to her. May 28 - This Morning's former resident doctor Dr Ranj Singh hits out at the show's 'toxic' culture. May 29 - Schofield releases a statement denying claims the show had a toxic culture, only for Eamonn Holmes to slam him as 'delusional' on Twitter. Holmes later takes to GB News accusing ITV of a 'total cover-up' of Schofield's affair. Advertisement 'The house of cards appears to be collapsing - it is anybodys guess where this ends now. It comes after former This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes accused ITV bosses of orchestrating a total cover-up of Schofields affair with his younger lover, saying those in authority had to know about the secret relationship. The pair met when Schofield was in his 50s and giving a talk to a theatre school. At that time, his future lover was 15 and keen to make a career in the TV industry. He moved down to London aged 18 and began working at This Morning, before striking up the secret relationship with the presenter. In an interview on GB News on Monday evening, Holmes, labelled Schofield, 61, chief narcissist who would hit the town on Thursdays for playtime with the young man. He claimed Schofields lover would be ferried between the presenters central London flat and the TV studio in taxis paid for by the network. Holmes said: I didnt know but Ive subsequently found out from a very, very good source, because he would arrive much earlier in the morning than I would for the programme, that he was delivered from Phillips London home. Usually on a Friday morning, because Thursday was playtime when he and Phillip would hit the town and then he obviously stayed overnight. There are records to show that he was brought in the next day separately in cars paid for by ITV. Asked whether the management would had to have known, Holmes replied: Unless Phillip paid the bills separately, but it would still have to go through the accounts office that they would have seen that and known that. Holmes, 63, also claims he approached senior management who worked for Ms McCall to tell them about Schofields relationship with the young production assistant. He said: I had gone to the senior bosses at ITV, people who worked for Carolyn McCall, the chief executive in November 2019, with the story of Phillip having this inappropriate relationship with the young man, and had urged them to investigate because why, at the very least, would you not investigate? I wasnt saying that Phillip was guilty of anything. I was saying you should launch an investigation. Sources close to Schofield hit back at Holmes, saying: If Eamonn Holmes wants to be that cruel to someone in Phillips position then that I think says more about Eamonn than Phillip. ITV is still refusing to give the Daily Mail any further detail of an investigation it insists took place. Sources close to the younger man say it did not ask him about the affair as part of any probe. On Saturday, ITV released a statement which said both parties were questioned and both categorically and repeatedly denied the rumours as did Phillips then agency YMU. ITV will not say whether the investigation was independent and external or who conducted it and when. The scandal is threatening to topple This Morning, the daytime programme which was launched in 1988 and hosted by Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan. Former This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes has accused ITV of orchestrating a 'total cover-up' of Schofield's affair One source on the show said yesterday: There are already conversations taking place between staff about how they are worried that things are going to have to change and where that leaves their jobs. It is a deeply worrying time, but nobody is under the illusion that the show can stay the same. It has to be rebranded because so much trust has gone. In the second part of the interview, which was broadcast last night, Holmes agreed with MailOnline columnist Dan Wootton that if anyone questioned Ms McCalls woke narrative... they are out. ITV bosses are set to be questioned by MPs about the broadcasters handling of Schofields affair when they face the Commons culture committee next Tuesday. Despite the ongoing scandal, Holly Willoughby will return to This Morning on Monday following an extended half-term break which was planned before the scandal broke. A source told MailOnline Ms Willoughby will front the show on Monday as planned. She will be joined by Alison Hammond, according one report. By any mainstream actor's standards, Ryan Gosling could never be accused of shying away from a potential challenge. To date the actor has made us fall in love with tattooed bikers, crack-addled school teachers, enigmatic stunt doubles and, in low-budget indie film Lars And The Real Girl, a socially awkward loner who develops a romantic interest in a lifelike doll. But one could argue he faces his biggest challenge yet in director Greta Gerwig's live action Barbie, a camp, colourful fantasy inspired by the iconic Mattel doll in which he plays Margot Robbie's perma-tanned sidekick Ken. It is perhaps his most mainstream role to date, and the 42-year old actor's latest following a four year absence from Hollywood - a hiatus prompted by the birth of daughter Amada, his second child with long-term partner Eva Mendes. 'I wanted to spend as much time as I could with them,' he told GQ's Global Summer issue of his decision to step back, albeit temporarily. Opening up: Ryan Gosling tells GQ he never thought about the prospect of becoming a father until he fell in love with Eva Mendes Early start: The couple started dating after filming the 2012 film The Place Beyond The Pines, pictured True love: 'I wasn't thinking about kids before I met her, but after I met Eva, I realized that I just didn't want to have kids without her,' he recalled Gosling, a former Disney star, embarked on a relationship with Mendes, 49, after the pair played troubled lovers in critically acclaimed 2012 drama The Place Beyond The Pines. The role served as a personal turning point for Gosling, and he admits the prospect of parenthood didn't cross his mind until he met the Latina actress, who is seven-years his senior. 'I wasn't thinking about kids before I met her, but after I met Eva, I realized that I just didn't want to have kids without her,' he recalled. 'And there were moments on The Place Beyond the Pines where we were pretending to be a family, and I didn't really want it to be pretend anymore. I realised that this would be a life I would be really lucky to have.' The couple's first child, Esmeralda, was born in 2014, with Amada following two years later as Gosling's career reached a mainstream peak with starring roles in musical epic La La Land and comedy crime drama The Nice Guys. The following year he would play legendary astronaut Neil Armstrong in biopic First Man before sidelining his career to spend more time with his family - a decision that he admits changed his attitude towards work. 'I treat it more like work now, and not like it's, you know, therapy,' he said. 'It's a job, and I think in a way that allows me to be better at it because there's less interference.' Barbie, Gosling's second film since returning to the industry, represents his biggest step into the mainstream, but the actor's casting as youthful Ken at 42 has raised quizzical eyebrows among fans of the franchise. Coming soon: Gosling faces his biggest challenge yet in director Greta Gerwig's live action Barbie, a camp, colourful fantasy inspired by the iconic Mattel doll in which he plays Ken Read all about it: The summer issue of British GQ is available via digital download and on newsstands on the 13th June 'I would say, you know, if people don't want to play with my Ken, there are many other Kens to play with,' he joked. 'It is funnythis kind of clutching-your-pearls idea of, like, #notmyken. Like you ever thought about Ken before this?...But suddenly, it's like, 'No, we've cared about Ken this whole time.' 'No, you didn't. You never did. You never cared. Barbie never f***ed with Ken. That's the point. If you ever really cared about Ken, you would know that nobody cared about Ken. So your hypocrisy is exposed. This is why his story must be told.' The summer issue of British GQ is available via digital download and on newsstands on the 13th June. Molly-Mae Hague cut a casual figure alongside her boyfriend Tommy Fury and baby daughter Bambi as they arrived in Barbados on Wednesday after a nine-hour flight. The former Love Island star, 24, who has recently returned from holidays in Nice, Marbella and Dubai, looked ever the pro-traveller as she wheeled her daughter and carried her cases. Molly-Mae's trip to the Caribbean was in aid of her manager Francesca Britton's upcoming wedding, who she has worked alongside since leaving the ITV show. Molly-Mae kept things comfortable for the long-haul flight in light green leggings and a white top. She paired the simple look with beige Prada platform trainers and wore her blonde locks in a relaxed ponytail. They've arrived! Molly-Mae Hague cut a casual figure alongside her boyfriend Tommy Fury and baby daughter Bambi as they arrived in Barbados on Wednesday after a nine-hour flight Sweet: Alongside her, Tommy proved he was ever the attentive father as he wrapped one of Bambi's muslins around his neck Showcasing her natural beauty, she wore minimal make-up and wore sunglasses on the top of her head. Alongside her, Tommy proved he was ever the attentive father as he wrapped one of Bambi's muslins around his neck. The boxer teamed his look with a comfortable in a pair of beige tracksuit trousers and black and white trainers. Doing the heavy lifting, he carried two big bags alongside him and a big rucksack on his back. The pair appeared relieved as they stepped outside, where they were greeted by a taxi waiting to whisk them away to their luxury Caribbean escape. Before taking off on their trip, Molly-Mae took to her Instagram Stories on Tuesday to share a duo of adorable snaps of her baby daughter. Revealing she was off again on yet another holiday, accompanied by her five-month-old daughter, she shared a sweet photo from the plane. Molly-Mae cuddled up to Bambi, while wearing a white jumper and balancing a pair of sunglasses on her head. Familiar: The former Love Island star, 24, who has recently returned from holidays in Nice, Marbella and Dubai , looked ever the pro-traveller as she wheeled her daughter and carried her cases Casual: The boxer teamed his look with a comfy pair of beige tracksuit trousers and black and white trainers Chaotic: Tommy looked like he couldn't wait to get to their final destination Pleased: The pair appeared relieved as they stepped outside, where they were greeted by a taxi waiting to whisk them away to their luxury Caribbean escape Her blonde tresses were swept up in an elegant french braid and she opted for a fresh-faced no make-up look for the journey. She tagged her manager Francesca Britton in the post, suggesting the getaway may be work related. Over the top she wrote: 'Off on our next adventure'. Molly-Mae also shared a black-and-white photo of Bambi sitting up in a giant double bed in a hotel room. Captioning it, she penned: 'The best few days in London with my little family'. It comes after the influencer was treated to a huge array of luxury gifts as she celebrated her 24th birthday with Tommy on Friday. Molly-Mae took to her Instagram Stories to give an insight into her lavish birthday celebrations as she was surprised with a whole array of presents. She shared a short video of herself walking down the stairs and into the plush living room at the 3.5million Cheshire mansion she shares with her beau Tommy, 24. There were colourful flower petals strewn across the marble-look flooring of her hallway, leading into the living room, which was decked out with decorations. Molly-Mae was greeted by a whole host of colourful balloons scattered all around the room to mark the occasion. Going to the chapel! Molly-Mae's trip to the Caribbean was in aid of her manager Francesca Britton's wedding, who she has worked alongside since leaving the ITV show Cute: Before taking off on their trip, Molly-Mae took to her Instagram Stories on Tuesday to share a duo of adorable snaps of her baby daughter Teeny tiny: Molly-Mae also shared a black-and-white photo of Bambi sitting up in a giant double bed in a hotel room She then panned the camera around to show an impressive seven bouquets of pink and white roses in pink gift bags perched around the room. The influencer then showed off three Chanel gift bags of varying sizes sat beside a table, hinting at what her luxury birthday presents could be. There was also a large white Harvey Nichols bag among the presents as she was also given a mystery gift from the luxury department store. Molly-Mae also shared a snap of herself standing in her white pyjamas set as she cuddled Bambi, who she shares with Tommy. Alongside the snap, she gushed over her daughter as she wrote: 'Holding the best gift in the world.' Though Tommy was not seen in the footage, the very lavish spread of decorations and presents were likely organised by her doting boyfriend. Molly-Mae then settled down to watch Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, before taking a selfie with Bambi in her walk-in wardrobe as she got ready for her birthday. Molly-Mae welcomed her first child Bambi in January with boxer Tommy, who she met on Love Island's season five back in 2019. The runner who became Phillip Schofield's lover filmed a showreel at the This Morning studios in a bid to launch himself as a TV personality. The man, who the Mail is not identifying, interviewed Schofield himself in the reel, which sources say was 'made and paid for by ITV', raising yet more questions for under-fire channel bosses who insist they knew nothing of the fling. The video shows a closeness and ease between the pair, with the runner discussing 'singing in the shower'. The reel was created and shared in 2015, the year the younger man, now in his mid-20s, arrived to work on the show. A senior ITV source said: 'This is quite extraordinary. It shows the extent of Schofield's influence that he could make this happen for someone so junior. The showreel begins with the young runner walking down a corridor and pointing out portraits of presenters, including Phillip Schofield The man, who the Mail is not identifying, interviewed Schofield himself in the reel, which sources say was 'made and paid for by ITV' 'Everyone who allowed it to happen will have of course wondered why this was being done for a runner and what the relationship was between them. 'Of course it was all bought and paid for by ITV - it was filmed in the This Morning studios by the show's cameramen. It even starts with the This Morning music. I could hardly believe my eyes when I saw it. 'How many runners get access to the cameras, studio and main presenter? I'll tell you how many: none.' The bombshell video again raises questions about who at ITV knew or suspected that the presenter was having what he called an 'unwise but not illegal' romance with a very junior colleague. ITV bosses faced further questions today about what they knew when after claims emerged that the younger lover received a financial settlement from the broadcaster. A source told the Mail that the money was handed to the man, who, after he declared his love for Schofield at an awards ceremony in January 2020, was shunted to another of the network's daytime programmes, Loose Women. ITV has repeatedly declined to comment on the alleged settlement or deny it. The video again raises questions about who at ITV knew or suspected that the presenter was having what he called an 'unwise but not illegal' romance with a very junior colleague The young man spends a brief period in the This Morning kitchen where he invites viewers to email him about their favourite foods, before introducing Schofield The pair met when Schofield was in his 50s and giving a talk to a theatre school. At that time, his future lover was 15 and keen to make a career in the TV industry. He was later hired to work for This Morning on a junior basis, but left the show in 2020, the year that Schofield came out as gay. READ MORE Amanda Holden says she'll never make up with Phillip Schofield after he 'ghosted' her following This Morning feud in unearthed clip Advertisement In the four minute 19 second video, the young man emerges from the lifts at This Morning. He says: 'You can probably tell where I am just by the star on the lift. That's right, I'm at the This Morning studios - where hundreds of famous faces have come right out of this lift, from A-listers like Channing Tatum and Russell Crowe and Julie Andrews to famous politicians like Hillary Clinton, Tony Blair and David Cameron. And our very own This Morning family.' Walking along the corridor past framed pictures of the presenters, he says: 'There is Gino D'Acampo, our wonderful Italian stallion, and Phil Vickery. Hi Eamonn! And lovely Holly. Holly is on maternity leave. And one man who knows this room all too well is this guy, Mr Phillip Schofield - and I'll be having a chat with him in just a few minutes.' Then comes a brief spell in the This Morning kitchen where he invites viewers to email him about their favourite foods, before introducing Schofield. 'Next year he will have had 34 years - wow - on screen. This man started presenting the occasional Friday and he's still here after 12 years. That's a long temporary job, isn't it Phillip!?' Smiling, Schofield tells the story of how he came to be cast in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. Schofield asks: 'Can you sing?' Smiling, Schofield tells the story of how he came to be cast in Joseph and The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. Schofield asks: 'Can you sing?' The runner interjects: 'Well I sing in the shower' to which Schofield agrees, adding: 'In the car.' The two laugh over a clip of Schofield in his days presenting children's programmes for the BBC with Gordon the Gopher from the 1980s 'broom cupboard' set. Schofield says: 'I don't know what's worse there - whether it's the singing or the jumper.' The younger man counters: 'I think its all brilliant, I really do. For me that's what I think a children's presenter should be. It's entertaining.' He goes on to tell his mentor: 'I think you are doing very well,' adding: 'You are getting away with it, managing to keep it going.' ITV did not respond to a request for comment on the video today. A friend of Schofield's said this week that his young boyfriend was ambitious enough to forge friendships with Schofield's famous friends. 'He was very much into the spotlight and the lifestyle,' they said. 'It was obvious to everyone that they were an item.' On Friday last week, Schofield released a statement to the Mail in which he said that he was 'deeply sorry' for having lied about his relationship with the boy following questions from our sister paper, The Mail on Sunday. He said: 'I did have a consensual on-off relationship with a younger male colleague at This Morning. 'Contrary to speculation, whilst I met the man when he was a teenager and was asked to help him to get into television, it was only after he started to work on the show that it became more than just a friendship. That relationship was unwise, but not illegal. It is now over. 'When I chose to come out I did so entirely for my own wellbeing. Nobody 'forced' me out. Neither I nor anyone else, to my knowledge, has ever issued an injunction, super or otherwise, about my relationship with this colleague, he was never moved on or sacked by or because of me. 'In an effort to protect my ex-colleague I haven't been truthful about the relationship. But my recent, unrelated, departure from This Morning fuelled speculation and raised questions which have been impacting him, so for his sake it is important for me to be honest now.' Channing Tatum is a true Renaissance man. He's an actor, dancer, and author of a popular children's book series. The father of Everly, 10, with ex-wife Jenna Dewan sat down with People to talk about the inspiration for the third book in his Sparkella series - The One and Only Sparkella and the Big Lie. 'We really had to figure out which direction we wanted to go,' Tatum, 43, said about figuring out the story. 'And if you have kids, you know that they're going through massive life learning lessons on a daily basis, at a rapid pace. So trying to pick one and solidify it is not the easiest of jobs.' And it was a real-life incident with Everly that ultimately gave Channing - who is dating Zoe Kravitz - the idea for his latest book. Author: Channing Tatum is a true Renaissance man. He's an actor, dancer, and author of a popular children's book series; seen in 2022 New book: The father of Everly, 10, with ex-wife Jenna Dewan sat down with People to talk about the inspiration for the third book in his Sparkella series - The One and Only Sparkella and the Big Lie Her mini me kid: Here Jenna is seen with her daughter while on a set As a father, the Magic Mike star learned that kids begin experimenting with lying around age five. 'They really start to experiment with lying and really telling these untruths to see how they make them feel,' he said. 'They're starting to use them as tools in a way.' He went on to tell a story about a time his daughter took a toy car home from school. The Step Up actor said he could tell it was 'eating her up.' 'She calls me in. And she would always hustle me to not go to bed when I'm telling her to. I was like, "Ev, what's going on?" She's like, "You're just going to be so mad at me. I just can't tell you." And I'm like, "Evie, just tell me. I'm not going to be mad. I promise. We'll handle whatever it is. It's okay."' Everly eventually admitted what she had done. 'And it was a big relief. She definitely had to go and return it and apologize. But that was the worst of it,' Tatum explained. 'I think it was a big lesson for her. It was that first one. That first big, big one that you feel like your world's going to end.' In The One and Only Sparkella and the Big Lie, Sparkella attempts to befriend the cool kid at school by taking another friend's toy to impress them. 'I usually always kind of connect it to something that I went through with Evie that I can understand at least the emotional journey of it,' Tatum said. The big lie: And it was a real-life incident with Everly that ultimately gave Channing the idea for his latest book His gal: Tatum and Zoe Kravitz leave the 2021 Met Gala Celebrating In America: A Lexicon Of Fashion at Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2021 Tatum and Dewan met on the set of their film Step Up in 2006, they married in July 2009, welcoming a daughter four years later. In 2018, they separated and their divorce was finalized in 2019. He said: 'We fought for it for a really long time, even though we both sort of knew that we had sort of grown apart. 'I think we told ourselves a story when we were young, and we just kept telling ourselves that story, no matter how blatantly life was telling us that we were so different. 'I dont know if Im ever going to get married again,' Tatum said. 'Relationships are hard for me.' Jane Fonda looked frail as she was seen in a wheelchair arriving back at LAX Airport from the Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday. The iconic actress, 85, who claimed 'white men are to blame for climate crisis' at the festival on Saturday, was seen being wheeled through the terminal by an airport employee after her long-haul flight from France. Fonda wore a black jacket, lavender sweater, black pants and white shirt for her arrival look. She completed the ensemble with sunglasses and a black face mask. It is not known why Fonda used a wheelchair - but in the past she has had back operations, an artificial knee surgery and a hip implant which required her to use the aide. Sighting: Jane Fonda looked frail as she was seen in a wheelchair arriving back at LAX Airport from the Cannes Film Festival on Wednesday Fonda is facing backlash after she called for men to face 'arrest and jail' for the destruction done to the planet - and blamed white men specifically for creating the 'climate crisis.' 'It is a tragedy that we have to absolutely stop. We have to arrest and jail those men they're all men [behind this],' she said Saturday at the Cannes Film Festival. She added there 'would be no climate crisis if there was no racism.' 'White men are the things that matter and then everything else [is] at the bottom,' the outspoken actor said of the 'hierarchy' that gives men power. Fonda first shared her thoughts about the connection between racism and climate change in an interview on The Kelly Clarkson Show earlier this year. 'Where would they put the sh*t,' she said. 'They're not gonna put it in Bel Air. They've got to find someplace where poor people or indigenous people or people of color are living.' Fonda called for those in positions to act quickly as she says there is less than a decade to save the planet from the effects of climate change. 'This is serious. We've got about seven, eight years to cut ourselves in half of what we use of fossil fuels, and unfortunately, the people that have the least responsibility for it are hit the hardest,' she said. Airport: The iconic actress, 85, who claimed 'white men are to blame for climate crisis' at the festival on Saturday, was seen being wheeled through the terminal by an airport employee after her long-haul flight from France Commmets: Fonda is facing backlash after she called for men to face 'arrest and jail' as she blamed white men specifically for creating the 'climate crisis' at Cannes Film Festival 'It is a tragedy that we have to absolutely stop. We have to arrest and jail those men they're all men [behind this],' Fonda said of the climate crisis. Pictured: Fonda in 2019 'Global South, people on islands, poor people of color,' the actress continued. Her comments came after a question from the audience at the famed film fest. 'It's good for us all to realize, there would be no climate crisis if there was no racism. There would be no climate crisis if there was no patriarchy,' Fonda stated. 'A mindset that sees things in a hierarchical way. White men are the things that matter and then everything else [is] at the bottom,' she explained. The 'Grace and Frankie' actor has previously sparked headlines for her head-turning comments on the highly politicized issue. Back in December Fonda announced that her cancer is now in remission and has been told by doctors she can discontinue chemotherapy treatment ahead of her 85th birthday next week. The Barbarella star revealed the happy news to her fans via her website, calling it 'the best birthday present ever.' 'Last week I was told by my oncologist that my cancer is in remission and I can discontinue chemo,' she wrote in a lengthy post. Happy news: In December 2022 Fonda announced her cancer is in remission (pictured October 2022) Worrying: Jane first announced she was suffering from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in September by sharing this Instagram selfie and a lengthy caption detailing her diagnosis September post: The star explained that she was receiving chemo, and that she was hopeful for a good outcome In September, Fonda - who has previously battled the disease - announced she had cancer after being diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, but told fans at the time she felt 'lucky' as it is 'very treatable.' The thrice-married star said in her latest health update: 'I am feeling so blessed, so fortunate. I thank all of you who prayed and sent good thoughts my way. I am confident that it played a role in the good news.' 'I'm especially happy because while my first 4 chemo treatments were rather easy for me, only a few days of being tired, the last chemo session was rough and lasted 2 weeks making it hard to accomplish much of anything.' Fonda, a two-time Oscar winner, said in September that she was 'privileged as a celebrity' and was 'lucky' to 'have health insurance and access to the best doctors and treatment.' She has previously been diagnosed with both breast and skin cancer, and blamed the latter on her past love of sunbathing. Raquel Leviss allegedly mailed Tom Sandoval a postcard with a lightning bolt to the home he shares with his ex Ariana Madix. For fans, the lightning bolt is a significant symbol in the cheating scandal. During the affair, Raquel, 28, purchased a lightning bolt necklace which matched the electric necklace Tom, 40, also owned. Scheana Shay's husband Brock Davies made the shocking claim while speaking with Vanderpump Rules alums Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright on their podcast When Reality Hits. 'The postcard was Sedona with a lightning bolt in Sedona, and she sends a postcard, so it's there for her her to read. That is calculated,' Brock alleged. 'It was a postcard, it wasn't a f**king closed envelope! It was because she wanted you guys to read it! Are you kidding me?' Brock exclaimed. Shocking news: Raquel Leviss allegedly mailed Tom Sandoval a postcard with a lightning bolt to the home he shares with his ex Ariana Madix 'She sent a postcard to Tom and Ariana's house and she's been like sending letters and stuff,' Scheana added. 'She sent a letter and Ariana sees the letter with "To Sandoval", but she can't open it, it's illegal. But then the motherf**ker has the audacity to go, "I'll go one step further of being an absolute tw*t" and writes a postcard!' Davies alleged. Ariana and Sandoval still live together at the home they purchased together in Valley Village despite their split, meaning Madix is able to see all their incoming mail. Brock also claimed the postcard was sent after Ariana revealed on Watch What Happens Live that Leviss had been sending Sandoval letters to their home but she was unable to legally open them herself. Ariana, whose nine-year long relationship with Sandoval imploded after his affair with Raquel came to light, revealed earlier this month that Leviss 'was sending letters to my house like four days ago.' She told host Andy Cohen that she didn't open the letters but they were 'addressed to him and in her handwriting.' Cohen asked if Leviss had sent them from the mental health facility that she checked herself into last month, to which Madix replied: 'I guess, I don't know.' Awkward! Ariana and Sandoval still live together at the home they purchased together in Valley Village despite their split, meaning Madix is able to see all their incoming mail 'That is calculated': Brock Davies, who is married to VPR star Scheana Shay, made the allegation on Brittany Cartwright and Jax Taylor's podcast; pictured earlier this month She clarified that she'd only seen one letter from Leviss and that she handed it over to Sandoval. 'I didn't open his [bedroom] door. I just brought him the mail, saw it, put it on the table, walked away. It was just the one that I know of, but I have been out of town,' Madix said. Fans watched Raquel purchase the controversial $780 lightning bolt necklace on an episode of Vanderpump Rules. According to a a Reddit user claiming to be a friend of the former pageant queen, who was previously crowned Miss Sonoma County in 2016 before appearing on Vanderpump Rules, the jewelry was used by the couple to say 'I love you' to each other. Scandoval of the year: Sandoval's nine-year long relationship with Ariana imploded after his affair with Raquel came to light She was photographed in the necklace several times on social media and at BravoCon in October 2022. While Sandoval wears the accessory almost daily, Leviss only began wearing a similar necklace last year, months after they are said to have begun seeing each other. Raquel and Tom reportedly split up earlier this month but have still been speaking to one another. Over the weekend, a fan spotted Tom on a phone call with Raquel. Raquel checked into a mental health facility after the cheating scandal broke, and while it was speculated their chat may have indicated she had finished treatment, a source shut that down. Speaking with ET Online, the insider said Raquel is still in the facility and was actually on a scheduled phone call with Tom. 'Tom was talking to Raquel during a scheduled phone call when he was spotted on the plane with her name on his phone. Raquel is still in the mental health facility and is very focused on doing the work required of her. Raquel only has certain times during the week she can make calls, and she and Tom had a scheduled call.' Jodie Marsh has weighed in on the Phillip Schofield This Morning scandal as she recounted her experience on the show. The former glamour model, 44, is the latest star to take aim at the presenter, 61, who resigned from ITV on Friday and was dropped by his talent agency YMU after admitting to an 'unwise, but not illegal' affair with a young male colleague. Jodie said when she appeared on the show seven years ago to talk about her fertility and sperm donation, she felt Phil just wanted to grill her about her failed relationships and previous sex addiction. Appearing on TalkTV on Wednesday, Jodie told host Mike Graham: 'As an older woman who was single, I still am single, if I wanted to have a child I don't have partner. 'It's a very serious and emotional topic, as any woman would know, and Phil spent the whole interview grilling me about my exes and sex. Speaking out: Jodie Marsh has weighed in on the Phillip Schofield This Morning scandal as she recounted her experience on the show on Talk TV on Wednesday Swipe: The former glamour model, 44, is the latest star to take aim at the presenter, 61, who resigned from ITV on Friday 'He wanted to talk about all the different sex I'd had. How many people I'd slept with. All sorts of nasty stuff about sex and it was just vile and I came off literally crying and wanting to be sick. 'I went on there because I wanted to have a child and I don't have a partner. He had belittled the whole thing and made the whole thing really crude. Holding nothing back, Jodie said in her experience Holly Willoughby and Phillip 'aren't nice to you at all'. 'There's no niceness whatsoever off camera,' Jodie said. 'Holly or Phil aren't nice at all to you, unless you can do something for them. You don't see them until you're sitting on the sofa. 'If you do happen to see them in the hallway, they don't say hello to you. They treat you like, literally, you are nothing. 'I remember seeing Holly in Barbados years ago and we were at a party and Holly knows full well who I am. I've been on This Morning many, many times. 'She completely blanked me. She tried to act like she didn't even know me. I made a point of going up to her and tapping her and going: "Hello, how are you?" Jodie said: 'Holly or Phil aren't nice at all to you... unless you can do something for them. You don't see them until you're sitting on the sofa' (pictured on This Morning in 2016) 'There won't be a next time': The TV personality retweeted a Tweet from Phil after she had hit out at him in 2016 following her This Morning interview Scandal: Schofield with his former lover on This Morning's sofa 'She looked so mortified because I caught her blanking me. It was so rude and unnecessary.' MailOnline has contacted Holly's representatives and ITV for comment. After Jodie's interview in 2016, Holly was accused of 'breaking the girl code' for not telling Jodie she had lipstick on her teeth. Jodie shared a furious meme that said: 'There is a special place in hell for a woman who does not tell another woman when she has lipstick on her teeth.' But later that day, Holly was able to silence the model by triumphantly sharing the untelevised moment that she offered some make-up advice. As well as her Talk TV interview, Jodie has been vocal about Phillip on Twitter. The TV personality retweeted a Tweet from Phil after she had hit out at him in 2016 following her This Morning interview. She wrote: 'I was booked to talk about sperm donation, not my sex life from 15yrs ago or my first marriage(that you got the facts wrong about)'. Phil had said in reply: 'Next time I'll certainly check with @jodiemarsh that it's ok to ask the questions she was booked to talk about!'. Retweeting his post from 2016, Jodie wrote: 'Unfortunately for you Phil there wont be a next time. Couldnt have happened to a nicer man.' Jodie isn't the only celebrity to speak out. Former This Morning stars Eamonn Holmes and Dr Ranj Singh have also spoken out against Schofield. It comes as ITV bosses faced further questions about what they knew when after claims emerged that the younger lover received a financial settlement from the broadcaster. A source told the Mail that the money was handed to the man, who, after he declared his love for Schofield at an awards ceremony in January 2020, was shunted to another of the network's daytime programmes, Loose Women. READ MORE: This Morning goes into damage control with social media blackout The last post shared by all the accounts was on Friday Advertisement ITV has repeatedly declined to comment on the alleged settlement or deny it. The pair met when Schofield was in his 50s and giving a talk to a theatre school. At that time, his future lover was 15 and keen to make a career in the TV industry. He was later hired to work for This Morning on a junior basis, but left the show in 2020, the year that Schofield came out as gay. On Friday last week, Schofield released a statement to the Mail in which he said that he was 'deeply sorry' for having lied about his relationship with the man following questions from our sister paper, The Mail on Sunday. He said: 'I did have a consensual on-off relationship with a younger male colleague at This Morning. 'Contrary to speculation, whilst I met the man when he was a teenager and was asked to help him to get into television, it was only after he started to work on the show that it became more than just a friendship. That relationship was unwise, but not illegal. It is now over. 'When I chose to come out I did so entirely for my own wellbeing. Nobody 'forced' me out. Neither I nor anyone else, to my knowledge, has ever issued an injunction, super or otherwise, about my relationship with this colleague, he was never moved on or sacked by or because of me. 'In an effort to protect my ex-colleague I haven't been truthful about the relationship. But my recent, unrelated, departure from This Morning fuelled speculation and raised questions which have been impacting him, so for his sake it is important for me to be honest now.' A woman branded a parasite on air by Phil Schofield has accused the shamed presenter for bullying her and encouraging an internet pile-on. Carla Bellucci, 41, was subsequently dubbed the most hated woman in Britain in 2019 for admitting that she had lied to doctors about suffering from depression in order to get a nose job on the NHS. There then followed a car crash interview on This Morning when Schofield railed at her: You freely admit - happily admit - that you've milked the NHS and you have lied. You've been a parasite on the NHS. The mother-of-four said that when Schofield told her You are going to get battered on social media during the interview, his words were tantamount to encouraging the social medial pile-on which she was subject to. Carla Bellucci, 41, who was branded a parasite on air by Phil Schofield has accused the shamed presenter for bullying her and encouraging an internet pile-on During the car crash interview on This Morning when Schofield railed at her: You freely admit - happily admit - that you've milked the NHS and you have lied Carla (pictured) from Hitchin, Hertfordshire, said a programme counsellor called her after the show because she was so worried I was an easy target, the former glamour model told MailOnline. He just bullied me on air from the moment the cameras started rolling. Okay, perhaps I was naive going on there at all, but the ferocious way he just kept telling me youve lied was shocking then, and all the more so now that we know all about the lies he was telling everyone, including his own wife. The man is a hypocrite, and it makes me angry to watch that clip over, even four years later. He also had the nerve to tell me that even after the 7k worth of surgery my nose was still a bit off. Carla from Hitchin, Hertfordshire, said a programme counsellor called her after the show because she was so worried, and the programme sent her a huge bouquet of flowers with a card signed from Phil and Holly. Internet blogger Carla, who boasts 151k followers on Instagram, had appeared in a newspaper story saying that shed faked having depression in order to get a free nose job on the NHS. She said she had flirted with her GP then lied to a surgeon about having depression and breathing problems in order to be given the op because she had a bump on her nose and it slanted to one side. Carla said the programme sent her a huge bouquet of flowers with a card signed from Phil and Holly (pictured) Internet blogger Carla (pictured), who boasts 151k followers on Instagram, had appeared in a newspaper story saying that shed faked having depression in order to get a free nose job on the NHS The mother-of-four said that when Schofield told her You are going to get battered on social media during the interview But she said she wasnt prepared for the backlash following her appearance on This Morning. I was no-one really, and here was TVs golden boy laying into me for all he was worth. I kept my cool on screen, but I walked out of the studio and just felt worthless, it ruined my life for a while. He looked at me with pure anger and told me Id be battered on social media in a way that sounded to me as if he was encouraging the attacks on me. He also said I was a parasite, milking the system and his words affected me for years after. Im a strong person with people around me who support me, but if Id been more vulnerable, that kind of treatment could have driven me over the edge. She was slammed by viewers, with many taking to social media to express their outrage. One wrote: 'Absolute joke. Work, save and pay for a nose job like the rest of us do, if your a glamour model your not broke #ThisMorning.' Another commented: 'This story angers me, people are going through a difficult time with genuine mental health issues - how dare she fake depression?' Having been pressed to admit she lied by an outraged Phil, she defended her position, saying: 'I was born here, I do work - I feel like I haven't done anything wrong.' She went on to claim: 'I'm one of many. I'm just the one who came forward.' Several called for her to repay the money from the operation, with one saying:'She's happy, she doesn't care cos she got her new nose, now hopefully the NHS will send her the bill.' There was even an online petition launched to press for her to be prosecuted for fraud. Carla admitted to MailOnline that the entire 'nose job' story was hyped up, and in fact the operation was performed because of an old injury when she had been hit in the face. Carla admitted to MailOnline that the entire 'nose job' story was hyped up, and in fact the operation was performed because of an old injury when she had been hit in the face Although she mentioned during the consultation that her nose did get her down, that wasn't the main reason the surgery was performed. She added: At the time I was desperate to get publicity as I always wanted to be in the media. The suggestion that I lied about the depression came from bad advice from bad people. I was very naive, and I do feel words were put into my mouth and the ITV gang wanted to go along with that line I just went with it. if I knew then what I know now, I would have gone about it differently, but I really was naive and had no idea how much it would get me hated. I think Phil knew how big it was going to be and I was like a lamb to the slaughter. A spokesman for the Royal Free London said at the time: Carla Bellucci had a medical procedure at Chase Farm Hospital. No cosmetic work was carried out. 'We would ask her to use our official complaints channels if she has any concerns about her care.' Last year Carla, a former model on OnlyFans, featured on BBCs Stacey Dooley Sleeps Over in which Carlas daughter Tanisha, then 17, admitted her dream was to appear on Love Island and was considering having hip filler. She also said she might follow in her mums footsteps onto OnlyFans. ITV were contacted for comment. Khloe Kardashian turned up the heat on Wednesday morning with a series of sexy snaps she shared on Instagram. The mom of two, 38, wore an orange figure-hugging, long-sleeved dress and leaned seductively against a door frame. The Good American founder - who clarified that she is not back together with Tristan Thompson - wore her honey blonde hair styled in a retro Veronica Lake style and her makeup was dramatic. In one of the snaps, she breaks character, smiles big for the camera and flashes a peace sign. 'Why do oranges wear sunscreen?' she captioned the post. Kourtney's ex partner Scott Disick answered the joke: 'Everyone knows oranges peel easily.' Traffic cone orange: Khloe Kardashian turned up the heat on Wednesday morning with a series of sexy snaps she shared on Instagram The Kardashians season three just premiered and in it, Khloe opened up about welcoming her son Tatum via a surrogate. Kim Kardashian, 42, said her sister 'had a really hard time accepting the whole process.' Khloe went on to admit that she felt less connected to her newborn son than she did True when she was born. 'It's a mindf***. It's really the weirdest thing,' Khloe said. 'I do think there is a difference when your baby is in your belly, the baby actually feels your real heart,' Kim said. 'Think about it. There's no one else on this planet that will feel you from the inside like that, your heart.' Kim added that some people have an easier time bonding with their baby when they use a surrogate. Khloe noted: 'Kim said hers was easy, and this is not easy.' All of this and more now streaming on Disney+ Bombshell: The mom of two, 38, wore an orange figure-hugging, long-sleeved maxi dress and leaned seductively against a door frame Peace: In one of the snaps, she breaks character, smiles big for the camera and flashes a peace sign Retro look: Her honey blonde hair was styled in a retro Veronica Lake style and her makeup was dramatic Longtime pals: Khloe and Scott have been friends for many years The new season of The Kardashians also follows Khloe's melanoma diagnosis. 'I have to get a plastic surgeon to cut the whole thing out,' Khloe said with fear in her voice. 'They said that they won't know until they open up my cheek how big they have to cut,' she continued. She added: 'I just don't want a big scar on my face.' Selling Sunset stars Jason Oppenheim and Marie-Lou Nurk have split after ten months together. The 46-year-old President of The Oppenheim Group - whose ex Chrishell Stause recently got married - took to his Instagram Story on Wednesday to make the announcement of his split with the 25-year-old model. He shared a snap of the now former couple cuddled up on a boat as they stared off into the distance together along with a joint statement. The statement read: 'While we still love and care about each other very much, the distance between us has proven to be too great a challenge to overcome. 'We remain close friends and continue to talk often and support each other and we want the very best for one another. We thank everyone for their support throughout our relationship.' Moving on: Selling Sunset stars Jason Oppenheim and Marie-Lou Nurk have split after ten months together; they are pictured together in LA back in October 'We thank everyone for their support': The 46-year-old President of The Oppenheim Group - whose ex Chrishell Stause recently got married - took to his Instagram Story on Wednesday to make the announcement of his split with the 25-year-old model As they cite distance being the main reasoning behind the split it must be noted that Marie-Lou primarily resides in Paris where she works as a model while Jason is based in Los Angeles. Jason and Marie-Lou were first linked in July 2022 six months after Jason split from his Selling Sunset co-star Chrishell Stause, 41. Chrishell has since moved on with Australian musician G Flip and she was very supportive of Oppenheim's new relationship. 'Chrishell and I are in a really good place,' Jason told People in August last year. 'We're both in love and happy for each other.' Jason and Marie-Lou reportedly met in Greece, where they were both enjoying Mediterranean vacations. They were spotted packing on the PDA during their trip abroad and later shared a photo posing together. It didn't take the couple long to make their red carpet debut and go Instagram official. 'I'm more open to being a husband than I am a father right now,' Oppenheim told People. 'I like the idea that there's no pressure, or a thought about having to have a child with Lou. So it just makes it easy for us.' The statement read: 'While we still love and care about each other very much, the distance between us has proven to be too great a challenge to overcome'; they are pictured in West Hollywood back in November Sad: As they cite distance being the main reasoning behind the split it must be noted that Marie-Lou primarily resides in Paris where she works as a model while Jason is based in Los Angeles; they are seen in LA back in January Shared memories: Jason and Marie-Lou reportedly met in Greece, where they were both enjoying Mediterranean vacations; they are pictured in August Marie-Lou related to the sentiment about not wanting children at the moment: 'I think for the next ten years, I'm good. And that's a long time, so I'm not even thinking about it yet.' Meanwhile, Jason's ex has tied the knot with her Australian partner Georgia 'G Flip' Flipo after just one year together. The actress-turned-realtor, 41, announced the news in a video reel of pictures she posted to Instagram earlier this month, giving fans a glimpse at her stunning bridal gown and an insight into their big day. At the end of the clip there was a photo of the couple getting married at what appeared to be a chapel in Las Vegas, complete with an Elvis Presley impersonator who serenaded the newlyweds. Chrishell - who was previously married to This Is Us star Justin Hartley captioned the montage: 'Love doesn't always go as planned Sometimes it's immeasurably better.' G Flip, 28 - who identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns - commented on the post: 'My darling, I adore and love you with all my heart.' Meanwhile fellow Selling Sunset star and Jason's ex Chrishell Stause (right) has married non-binary musician G Flip (left) in a Las Vegas chapel after just one year together The couple appeared to get married in Las Vegas, as an Elvis impersonator was pictured performing for the pair at the nuptials Chrishell met G Flip when she starred in one of the singer's music videos in October 2021, and they immediately hit it off. Seven months later, they publicly announced they were together. Jason showed that he was not jealous at all as he gushed: 'I am SO excited for this!! You and G are the most inspiring couple and the affection between you both is so pure. I love you two tons and am so lucky to have you both in my life. congrats!' Jason and Chrishell dated from July to December of 2021 and broke up because he wasn't sure he ever wanted to have children. They have been going strong ever since their controversial romance was revealed last year. And Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes enjoyed a couples workout as they continued keeping the spark alive on Tuesday. The duo were seen cooling down after going for a jog together in New York City. Holmes, 45, reached for Robach's arm as they took a breather on the sidewalk, strolling at a leisurely pace in their coordinating pink trainers. Fitness fanatic Robach, 50, displayed her toned body in a teal tan top, navy jogging shorts, and bright pink running shoes. Couples workout! Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes enjoyed a jog together in New York City on Tuesday She also sported a delicate chain necklace which fell beneath her neckline. The jewelry could have been the $650 David Yurman promise ring gifted to her by Holmes ahead of her 50th birthday back in February, which she has been wearing on a Tiffany gold chain around her neck. Holmes also displayed his sculpted physique in a loose white tank top, black shorts, leggings, and fuchsia trainers. It is six months since DailyMail.com broke the bombshell of the affair that left their careers and their marriages she to Melrose Place actor Andrew Shue, he to attorney Marilee Fiebig in tatters. The exit deals each ultimately negotiated with ABC means neither can take another hosting role for a year. The controversy has done nothing to extinguish their passion for one another. During Memorial Day weekend, the couple were spotted putting on a loved-up display as they enjoyed lunch and drinks at the Spanish restaurant Sevilla in Manhattan's West Village. 'Those two are nothing short of sizzling. It's almost embarrassing to see them together. I practically have to fan myself,' one source dished. The source said: 'They were so on fire at the beginning that photo you had with his hand caressing her a** as they were packing their car. We thought it was bound to flame out after a year. Sporty styles: Amy opted for a teal tank and navy jogging shorts while Holmes kept his cool in a white top and black shorts What's that? She also wore a delicate chain necklace, which could have been the $650 David Yurman promise ring gifted to her by Holmes ahead of her 50th birthday back in February 'But I think their spark is more than just good old sexual chemistry. They are on the same wavelength in so many ways.' Indeed, proving the cynics wrong, Holmes and Robach still can't keep their hands off each other. Sources tell DailyMail.com that, whether working out, going for runs, or simply getting groceries together, the couple have been virtually inseparable ever since their affair came to light. Holmes's divorce from Fiebig with whom he has one daughter, is about to be finalized. Making headlines: It is six months since DailyMail.com broke the bombshell of the affair that left their careers and their marriages she to Melrose Place actor Andrew Shue, he to attorney Marilee Fiebig in tatters And with the lease on his Manhattan apartment up for renewal late summer, DailyMail.com has learned that the former co-stars turned lovers are eager to start the next stage of their lives and move in together. Robach and Shue who each have children from previous marriages finalized their divorce in March having privately worked out their agreement through mediation and reaching a custody deal over their beloved Maltipoo, Brody. Their official split came almost a year ago, last August, after Shue, 56, learned of his wife's affair and moved out of their West Village apartment. Summer loving! During Memorial Day weekend, the couple were spotted putting on a loved-up display as they enjoyed lunch and drinks at the Spanish restaurant Sevilla in Manhattan's West Village According to sources what began as a professional friendship evolved into something more when Holmes and Robach were sent to London to cover the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in June last year. Months later, in December, just days after the story of the affair broke, Robach was seen moving out of the home with her parents arriving to help. Robach and Shue bought the three-bedroom, two-bath Barrow Street property in 2018 for $4million according to ET. The apartment was reportedly put back on the market in September and sold for $5.2million in November, right before the clandestine relationship was exposed. Since then, Robach has moved into a co-op in the Village, but is frequently seen spending time at Holmes's apartment in the Financial District to which he relocated full time after separating from Fiebig. Robach and her actor husband Andrew Shue, 55, who had been married since 2010, quietly finalized the terms of their divorce in March. His last appearance on his wife's Instagram account was on July 30, 2022 during their vacation in GreeceT.J. and his wife Marilee Fiebig are close to finalizing their divorce after 13 years of marriage Robach and Holmes were officially pulled from ABC's airwaves for good in late January after the network's internal review into their affair dragged out their suspension for eight weeks. DailyMail.com secured a copy of the email bosses sent to GMA staff, saying that 'after several productive conversations,' it was agreed it was best for the couple to 'move on from ABC News.' Network executives said they were thankful to them both for their years with ABC but anxious to move on. Privately sources said executives believed that Robach and Holmes had waited too long to disclose their relationship leaving staff 'uncomfortable' with 'their behavior on set.' Reports also indicated that Robach walked away with a bigger settlement than Holmes as she had been with the network two years longer than Holmes and had a higher profile within it. Ryan Connor's trial against acid attacker Justin Rutherford was thrown into chaos during Wednesday's episode of Coronation Street. Justin is currently on trial after trying to throw acid at Daisy Midgeley on her wedding day, only for Ryan to get permanently scarred when he jumped in the way. He is set to take the stand this week for his horrific crimes, but the trial was thrown into chaos when Justin's sister Karen appeared and got involved in the case. After winning over Daisy's trust by apologising for her brother stalking her, Karen (Lynn Kennedy) overheard a heated exchange between her and Ryan in the pub. In the argument, Carla Connor (Alison King) defended Ryan (Ryan Prescott) as she fumed over how Daisy (Charlotte Jordan) broke up him and his girlfriend Alya Nazir (Sair Khan). Obstacle: Ryan Connor's (pictured) trial against acid attacker Justin Rutherford was thrown into chaos during Wednesday's episode of Coronation Street Threats: Justin is set to take the stand this week for his acid attack on Ryan, but the trial was thrown into chaos when Justin's sister Karen (pictured) appeared and got involved in the case Two years ago, Ryan cheated with Daisy after she told lies to end his relationship with Alya, before making sure Alya knew of the affair and then ending things shortly after. After the argument about their past conflict in the pub, Karen overheard and decided to tell Justin's lawyer about their history to aid his court case. Confronting Ryan in the street, Karen told him: 'I've passed on what you said in the pub to Justin's lawyer about Daisy lying... I'm sorry I really am, but Justin is my brother.' A devastated Ryan said: 'You played us.' To which she hit back with: 'I just wanted you to know, so you can expect it, after everything you've been through. I'm sorry.' Ryan then didn't show up in the court when they called their first witness, with Justin (Andrew Still) looking smug when the court had to recess to solve the issue. Ryan's lawyer said: 'Apologies your honour, the first witness for the prosecution isn't in attendance, he can't be reached. I ask for a brief recess while this matter can be attended to.' Daisy then went around to Ryan's house in a bid to persuade him to take to the stand, but he then dropped the bombshell about the court case. Jeopardy: Karen told Justin's lawyer about Daisy's history with Ryan in breaking up him and his girlfriend, trying to make out that Daisy could have 'manipulated' Justin to justify his stalking Upset: Daisy was left devastated after learning the news, and Ryan said he wouldn't attend the court case, throwing it into jeopardy He said: 'They know everything that happened between us... they are going to make out that you manipulated Justin just like you manipulated me!' Daisy said: 'Her passing on gossip about us, it doesn't change what Justin did.' But Ryan tearfully replied: 'It's not though, it's the truth. We were supposed to have the truth on our side... now, I'm going to have to get there and lie! You're a manipulative cow who lies and cheats.' Daisy insisted: 'Not anymore, what I did was awful but I'm not like that anymore.' But Ryan said: 'Let's hope they believe that.' Daisy begged him to attend the court case, but Ryan said he couldn't be there to watch Justin avoid jail for his acid attack. The episode ended on a cliffhanger as Ryan said: 'I know you regret what happened with me and Alya, and I know whatever Justin says about you is a lie, but I got this for standing up for you before, I feel like I've done enough.' It comes after actor Andrew Still teased that his character Justin will go to 'whatever lengths he has to', to avoid jail amid his acid attack trial. Last week, Andrew has warned that his 'manipulative' character will stop at nothing to dupe the jury and ensure he walks free from court. The last time viewers saw Justin, he demonstrated his 'pathetic' side as he grovelled to Daisy in the hospital car park before he was swiftly arrested and taken into custody. Court case: Justin is currently on trial after trying to throw acid at Daisy Midgeley on her wedding day, only for Ryan to get permanently scarred when he jumped in the way Andrew explained that the stalker has the ability to 'jump through mental hoops to justify his actions', adding that in his head, he's 'the hero in his own story' and cannot see what he's done is wrong. As Justin appears in court in upcoming scenes, Andrew warned that fans will see a 'new' Justin, who has amped up his manipulation in a bid to gain the 'upper hand' in court. He revealed: 'It's a new Justin that we are going to see. There is a lot going on in his head with the trial underway as he feels backed into a corner so he is willing to go to whatever lengths he has to, to gain the upper hand. 'He has manipulated his sister and he is lying to anyone and everyone around him. There is a very definite fear of going to prison for a very long time so he is desperate.' He continued: 'We will see a slither of the pathetic Justin but this is his big chance to be seen and to be heard, particularly by Daisy, so he is happy to grab that opportunity with both hands. As the trial progresses we are going to see Justin wrestling to stay calm and collected as this inner tension is bubbling under the surface.' Andrew went on to add that Justin is confident that he'll be able to paint Daisy in a bad light in court using his 'manipulation tactics', adding that the creep will pull off an epic performance to sway the jury to his side. He explained: 'Justin has a well rehearsed speech as he knows this trial is important so he sees this as his golden opportunity to convince the jury to let him go. He is going to put on the full charm offensive and he will use all of his manipulation tactics to win the jury round. Manipulative: It comes after actor Andrew Still teased that his character Justin will go to 'whatever lengths he has to', to avoid jail amid his acid attack trial 'He's not confident that this is going to all pan out for him but he knows that this is make or break and he has to put on the performance of his life to get away with this. 'It's a very stakes, high pressure situation for him. We are going to see the most manipulative Justin yet.' With Justin finally set to face trial for his crimes, viewers will have to wait and see if the character is brought to justice. Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX. The slaying of the tipsy taxman was particularly vicious barbarous, bloody and inhuman, according to a contemporaneous account as if someone had a score to settle. Mr William Dighton, Officer of the Excise, to give him his official title, was waylaid on a dark path just outside the Yorkshire town of Halifax in November 1769. It was late. Hed been drinking with colleagues and was on his way home to his wife and seven children, unaware that men with a grievance against him were lurking in a field and levelling a pistol and a blunderbuss at him across the top of a gate. From point-blank range, a shot rang out and the excise man fell, a lead slug in his head. He was probably dead before he hit the ground but, to make sure, his assailants stepped out of the shadows, smashed his head in with the stock of the blunderbuss and stamped on him with their hobnailed boots, leaving the marks of their studs across his chest. When the body was found, four golden guineas hed been carrying had disappeared. (A guinea was 21 shillings or 1, 1s about 250 today.) This, though, was no straightforward highway robbery. The men were paid assassins and behind the killing lay a crime of such huge proportions symbolised by those golden guineas that one estimate suggests it may have cost the British Treasury 16 million (3.7 billion today). David Hartley (played by Michael Socha in BBC2's The Gallow's Pole) led a gang of counterfeiters whose antics brought the economy to a standstill in the 18th Century It is claimed it brought the Bank of England to its knees, devaluing the pound by 9 per cent and causing the British economy to totter. The people of Halifax had no doubt who had slaughtered the unfortunate Mr Dighton money counterfeiters. He had, that contemporaneous report went on, been surprisingly industrious in finding out a gang of villains who carry out their illicit trade of clipping the current coin of the kingdom. The government man had been closing in on them, threatening their incredibly lucrative trade. He had to go. The brutality of his death indicates how high the stakes were, how deep and personal the animosity. The story has now been dramatised in a new series, The Gallows Pole, which began on BBC2 last night. The former weaving village of Cragg Vale high in the Calder Valley was the fraudsters base, and their leader was a charismatic man who styled himself King David Hartley. He was acknowledged as such by the locals because, in their eyes, he had saved them from ruin. This area in the West Riding had until not long before been wealthy enough, a loom in every cottage producing woollen garments for the military. Then, with the end of the Seven Years War with France in 1763, the mass market for uniforms dried up and Cragg Vale and a dozen surrounding villages were plunged into poverty, barely managing to survive. Hartley came to their rescue. He was a local man, a bit of a scoundrel, whod been away for many years in the rapidly industrialising city of Birmingham, making a living as an ironworker in the smelting works but almost certainly forging coins on the side. He returned to Cragg Vale, probably one step ahead of the law, saw the desperate straits the villagers were in and proposed a way for them to get rich quick. Michael Socha stars as David Hartley, alongside Sophie McShera as his wife Grace Coin was usually counterfeited by fashioning a cheap base metal into a round shape and covering it with a thin layer of gold plate to pass it off as the real thing. It was hard to make such fakes convincing. Hartleys scheme was to take real golden guineas largely Portuguese pieces known as Moidores, which were legal tender in England at the time skilfully clip them at the edge with shearing scissors, then mill the edges with a file. The idea was that, at a glance, they would look no different from before, even though they were significantly lighter in weight and therefore devalued. It helped that much of the coinage in circulation was old and worn, making it tricky to tell a clipped coin from a genuine one. The clippings were then melted down in a crucible and pressed into an engraved die stamp to make fresh gold coins. It was reckoned that as much as a tenth could be skimmed off a coin without anyone noticing. Therefore, for every 10 guineas, one new guinea was obtained by the gang. But for this all to work, a ready supply of real coins was needed. These either had to be stolen or borrowed. Anyone willing to lend their coins would get a share of the profits. A contemporary account says the coiners paid 22 shillings for a full-size 21-shilling coin, which they would return into circulation after shaving off a sliver of precious metal. When David Hartley returned to his weaving village after the Seven Years War with France in 1763, the mass market for uniforms dried up and Cragg Vale and a dozen surrounding villages were plunged into poverty, barely managing to survive The gold they collected from the ten or so genuine coins would be enough to create a fake Portuguese Moidore with a face value of 27 shillings, though its actual gold content was only worth around 22 shillings. There were vast profits to be made and it was no wonder whole villages, with anywhere between 80 and 200 men and women in all, were drawn into what amounted to a criminal conspiracy against the British government and felt entitled to do so because their livelihoods as weavers had been taken away from them, leaving them destitute. Their sense of injustice is at the heart of The Gallows Pole, which has been adapted from a book of the same name by Ben Myers a fictionalised account of Cragg Vales defiance of authority, as the common folk put aside their differences and pool their talents to outwit the powers-that-be. The truth about the Cragg Vale Coiners, however, is less winsome. Their story is underpinned by violence, as the savage killing of William Dighton shows. The other unpalatable truth about them is that the whole operation got completely out of hand and blew up in the gangs face. If the clipping had remained a small-scale local enterprise, they might have got away with it indefinitely. But word spread and soon hundreds of clippers and coiners were setting up in business in what one historian has likened to a veritable Silicon Valley for currency entrepreneurs. Coin for clipping was arriving from all over the north as everyone sought to cash in and there was so much gold circulating in Yorkshire that one local concluded: All payments in paper will soon be at an end. King David became almost a banker in his own right, with merchants and capitalists depositing their guineas with him on a regular basis for conversion into pure profit. And all this despite counterfeiting and clipping constituting High Treason, for which the penalty was death. This was a risky game everyone was playing. By now, though, it was so common it was almost becoming normalised: a common practice of the moneyed people as one observer put it. And in Georgian England, a country with pretensions to be a modern state, that couldnt go on. For 10 years Dighton had been on the case of the coiners. As tax collector for the region, he found himself being paid by traders in lightweight coin. The exchequer was losing out. He infiltrated the gang with paid informers and in 1769 Hartley was arrested for clipping, along with dozens of other counterfeiters. As the King languished in York Castle awaiting trial, the response from the rest of the gang now led by his brother, Isaac, known as the Duke of York was to pay assassins 100 guineas to kill Dighton on that lane outside Halifax. Dighton was not the only one to die as the coiners desperately tried to cover their tracks. A farm hand threatening to name the tax collectors murderers was attacked, thrown on a fire, hot tongs clamped round his neck and burning coals thrust down his trousers. He died in unimaginable agony. For an outraged government in London, the killing of their appointed officer was a challenge it could not ignore. Its very authority was being undermined by anarchists in the north. Questions were raised in Parliament and the Marquess of Rockingham, Lord Lieutenant of the West Riding and a former Prime Minister, was ordered to bring in Dightons killers and shut down the gangs. Fuelled by generous rewards in return for information, 30 suspects were soon behind bars. Another 48 quickly followed as the gangs fell apart, confessing their guilt and turning on each other to get off the hook. Hartley was among dozens hanged for impairing, diminishing and lightening guineas. A particularly gruesome fate was reserved for the murderers of excise man Dighton. When eventually convicted, their bodies were tarred and hung in chains on a gibbet overlooking the site of the murder. This was ambitious Rule Britannia Britain. Integrity of the currency was crucial. In their pursuit of easy money, the Cragg Vale Coiners bit off more than they could chew and paid the price. Kim Cattrall will make a shock return as Sex And The City's Samantha Jones for the second season of spin-off And Just Like That - despite her explosive feud with star Sarah Jessica Parker. According to Variety, Cattrall, 66, will return for only one 'cliffhanger' scene, which she shot on March 22 in New York City, without seeing or speaking with stars SJP, Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis. The scene was also shot without AJLT showrunner Michael Patrick King. In the scene, Samantha, who has moved to London, will have a phone conversation with Parker's Carrie Bradshaw. The New York Post also revealed that Cattrall's cameo was so secretive that her name did not even appear on the call sheet for the day, leaving people stunned at her presence. An insider said said show staffers were 'definitely shocked, very intrigued on how theyre gonna write this in - and very excited. She said shed never do it! She said shed never come back!' She's back! Kim Cattrall will make a shock return as Sex And The City's Samantha Jones for the second season of spin-off And Just Like That's second season - despite her explosive feud with star Sarah Jessica Parker Hell has frozen over: According to Variety , Cattrall, 66, will return for only one scene, which she shot on March 22 in New York City, without seeing or speaking with stars SJP, Cynthia Nixon and Kristin Davis (pictured together in SATC season six) It was claimed her scene was filmed in a town car in a parking garage near Silvercup Studios in Queens. Sex And The City designer Patricia Field, who is not the costume designer for AJLT, returned to dress Cattrall for the scene. AJLT's second season will premiere on June 22 on Max. Samantha did feature in AJLT season one - but only over text message as Carrie repeatedly messaged her to try and repair their friendship. AJLT saw Carrie claim Samantha had cut her off and moved to London - due to fury at the writer firing her as a publicist - in a storyline Cattrall slammed for being inauthentic to the character. The explosive reveal will both delight and shock fans of SATC as Cattrall has previously refused to ever reprise her fan-favorite role as the man-hungry publicist - having last played the character in much derided 2010 film, Sex and the City 2. Even SJP has claimed she does not want Kim back - when asked by Variety in a 2022 interview if she would be 'OK' if Cattrall, 65, was able to come back to the show if some 'miracle were to happen,' after their very public feud exploded back in 2018. Parker responded: 'I don't think I would, because I think there's just too much public history of feelings on her part that she's shared.' Adding: 'I haven't participated in or read articles, although people are inclined to let me know.' 'We didn't go to Kim for this, you know,' Parker said. 'After we didn't do the movie and the studio couldn't meet what she wanted to do, we have to hear her and listen to her and what was important to her.' Last seen: The explosive reveal will both delight and shock fans of SATC as Cattrall has previously refused to ever reprise her fan-favorite role as the man-hungry publicist - having last played the character in much derided 2008 film, Sex and the City 2 Confirmed! Season 2 of And Just Like That... will return June 22 on HBO Max Enemies: In the scene, Samantha, who has moved to London, will have a phone conversation with Parker's Carrie Bradshaw (pictured together in 2008) 'It didn't fit into what was important or needed for us. There's a very distinct line between Samantha and Kim,' Parker continued. 'Samantha's not gone. Samantha's present, and I think was handled with such respect and elegance. She wasn't villainized. She was a human being who had feelings about a relationship, so I think we found a way to address it which was necessary and important for people that loved her.' Patricia has publicly pledged her allegiance with Kim since the show ended, and in December last year, said she is interested in doing a series with her. The two-time Emmy winner told Page Six: 'I would love to do a show with [Kim].' Back in December, Patricia also slammed Cynthia Nixon over her fashion demands when asked about her former assistant Molly Rogers' work styling the cast on HBO Max's And Just Like That. The Oscar nominee admitted she 'liked some of it, but not all of it', during an interview with the Sunday Times. She added: 'I know those gals! Sarah Jessica [Parker] thinks she knows everything - and she does. Cynthia Nixon thinks she knows everything - and she doesn't! Even today, when I speak with Molly, it's about Cynthia. I say, "I remember what you are going through." Speaking about Kim's absence from the popular series, Field said: 'It is a vacuum. I hear it everywhere. Everyone is mad she wont be in it.' SCRAPS AND THE CITY: HOW DID KIM AND SARAH'S FEUD BEGIN? May 2008: SJP defended Kim when she was asked whether she supported her decision to delay the filming of the first SATC movie due to salary disputes December 2009: Kim and Cynthia Nixon attend SJP's premier for Did You Hear About The Morgans? in a show of support and SJP tells Elle that she wouldn't have done the SATC film without Kim January 2010: In an interview with the Mail, Kim expressed her exasperation over the never-ending feud rumours saying 'People don't want to believe that we get on' May 2010: Kim admits that 'sometimes feelings get hurt' during grueling filming hours due to the amount of time the women spent together August 2016: SJP wishes Kim a happy 60th birthday and addresses her as her 'old friend' October 2016: Kim once again defends feud rumours but admits not every day working together is easy or perfect September 2017: SJP confirmed a third SATC movie... and then announced it was happening Willie Garson, who played Carrie's BFF Stan tweeted, 'Disappointed for all crew holding on for negotiations to conclude for their jobs, and of course, for the fans. Leave it at that. #Truth.' October 2017: Kim Tells Piers Morgan that SJP 'could have been nicer' about the SATC 3 demise February 2018: Kim blasts 'cruel' SJP and says she is not a friend nor family to her Advertisement DailyMail.com exclusively revealed in September 2017 that a third Sex and the City movie was essentially 'torpedoed' due to Cattrall's excessive demands. Cattrall reportedly demanded that Warner Bros. step up and produce other movies she was developing, or she wouldn't star in Sex and the City 3. Parker, Nixon and Davis were all set to reprise their roles, with production slated to happen that fall, though the project completely fell apart and never went into production. Cattrall denied the story, tweeting, 'The only DEMAND I ever made was that I didnt want to do a 3rd film.& that was back in 2016.' Tensions had reportedly brewed between Cattrall and the rest of the cast since the start of the show, which escalated when one of her only allies - creator Darren Star - left the show and was replaced by Michael Patrick King, who created And Just Like That. The feud escalated in 2018 when Cattrall blasted Parker for talking about Kim's brother Christopher, who was found dead in Canada, in a TV interview. 'Your continuous reaching out is a painful reminder of how cruel you really were then and now. Let me make this VERY clear. (If I havent already) You are not my family. You are not my friend. So Im writing to tell you one last time to stop exploiting our tragedy in order to restore your "nice girl" persona,' Cattrall said in the post Needless to say, most weren't surprised when Cattrall wasn't part of And Just Like That... with the actress revealing that she was never asked to be a part of the show. It was revealed in the first episode of And Just Like That... that her character, Samantha Jones, is now living in London. In 2022 Cattrall revealed she was never asked to be a part of the new Sex And The City reboot And Just Like That... and was heartbroken over a plotline in a pitched third film which involved her character receiving unwanted 'dick pics' from Miranda Hobbes' 14-year-old son Brady and ultimately led to her turning down the project. 'I was never asked to be part of the reboot. I made my feelings clear after the possible third movie, so I found out about it like everyone else did on social media,' the actress told Variety. When asked how she felt learning about the reboot, she replied, 'I was like, "Ooooh." How's...' Phenomenon: SATC has become one of the most iconic television shows of all time Will he be back? Some fans speculated that Kim's return could pave the way for her true love Smith Jerrod (played by Jason Lewis) to return to the SATC universe The interviewer offered, 'How's that going to work?' 'You said it. Not me,' Kim replied. 'Its a great wisdom to know when enough is enough,' Kim said of not returning to the show. 'I also didnt want to compromise what the show was to me. The way forward seemed clear.' Kim says she read the script for the third film and was disappointed to see how Samantha's story would play out. Apparently, Samantha was to be sent unwanted 'd*ck pics' from Mirandas' 14-year-old son. 'It's heartbreaking,' Kim said of the storyline. Kim would have rather liked to have seen Samantha being forced to sell her PR company to 'some guy who's wearing a hoodie' as a result of the 2008 financial crisis. 'Why can't Samantha, who owns her PR company maybe she had to sell it because of financial woes? 2008 was tough. Some people are still recovering. She had to sell it to some guy who's wearing a hoodie, and that's the dilemma she has. I mean that's a scenario that was kind of off the top of one of my reps' heads, and I thought that's a great idea. That's a conflict. Instead of an underage boy's...' she said. Fury: The feud escalated in 2018 when Cattrall blasted Parker for talking about Kim's brother Christopher, who was found dead in Canada, in a TV interview Ended: Cattrall told Parker she was 'not her friend' and slammed her Ultimately, Kim decided not to take part in the third film after seeing her character's lack of progression. 'I would have preferred for all of us to have some kind of event to warrant a third film. That didnt happen. But also, I was ready. And this is exactly what I wished for: to be in different places playing different characters because Im a character actress. 'And as difficult as it was, and as scary as it is to stand up and not be bullied by the press or the fans or whomever to just say, Im good. Im on this track. It was so great working with you. I so enjoyed it, but Im over here.' She shaded the new series, claiming it was essentially the same as the script for the third film, which also saw Mr. Big die. 'The series is basically the third movie. That's how creative it was,' she said. Kim was really ready to throw in the towel after filming the second SATC movie. 'Everything in me went, "I'm done,"' Kim said. Yet she does appreciate fans noticing her character's absence. 'I've come to the conclusion that really the greatest compliment I could have as an actor is to be missed.' Kim also addressed her relationship with her co-stars, whom she was allegedly at-odds with during their time filming the show. Kim said they had a professional relationship yet never considered them friends. Not the only OG returning: John Corbett will also return as Aidan Shaw in the second season 'I think we were colleagues. My colleagues arent my friends. It was professional.' Kim does not ever plan on reprising her iconic role. 'That's a no,' she said of a potential return. 'It's powerful to say no.' Despite having no desire to return to the show, Kim had fond memories connecting with Samantha and fleshing out her character. Kim also revealed she turned down the role three times before finally joining the show. 'I turned it down three times. I didnt think I could do it. At 42, I really didnt think I could pull it off. I finally said, "You're making a mistake here." We did the pilot it was good but it wasn't there. And then it started to find its way. I realized, because Id never done a series before, the more you play the character, like in theater, the more you add to it and change. I remember one day, a laugh came out, and I thought, "Holy s**t, thats great. Sam just got a new laugh."' Kim admitted it was 'odd' watching the show continue Samantha without her. 'Its odd, isnt it? I dont know how to feel about it. Its so finite for me, so it doesnt continue. I think I would ponder it more if I didnt have something like Queer as Folk or How I Met Your Father. Thats kind of where Im centered around. This feels like an echo of the past. 'Other than the really wonderful feeling of its rare in my business people wanting more, especially at 65. That feels powerful, that Ive left something behind that Im so proud of. I loved her. I loved her so, so, so much. Its tough competition. The original show is in all of our imaginations. But for me, it feels clean.' Elaborating on her 'clean' break, she said: 'Yeah, it was years ago. It was 2017 when all this was happening. I just thought to myself, No, this is right. And you cant go against that feeling. I dont ever want to be on a set and not want to be there.' It ain't over: DailyMail.com exclusively revealed in September 2017 that a third Sex and the City movie was essentially 'torpedoed' due to Cattrall's excessive demands Kim also said she was unaware of remarks made by Sarah, who said she wouldn't be OK with Kim returning as Samantha again. 'I don't think I read it,' she said. 'It wouldn't happen anyway,' she added. 'So nobody has to worry about that.' Unsurprisingly, she has not seen any of the new reboot. Kim has been embroiled in a public feud with Sarah for a while now - calling her former costar names like 'cruel' and 'toxic' over the years - and many people believe that's why she didn't want to participate in the new show. According to Cosmopolitan, Sarah earned a much larger salary than her costars during her time in the show - which eventually led to it going off the air in 2004. 'I felt after six years, it was time for all of us to participate in the financial windfall of Sex and the City,' Kim said in a 2004 interview about the pay-difference, right after the series came to an end. 'When they didnt seem keen on that, I thought it was time to move on.' However, for years after Sex and the City concluded, Sarah and Kim denied that there were any hard feelings between them, and they even went on to film two SATC movies together. 'My colleagues arent my friends': The actress addressed her connection with her former co-stars and said they had a 'professional' relationship But in 2017, things came to a head when Kim decided she did not want to be a part of the third Sex and the City movie. 'The answer was simply: "Thank you, but no. Im good,' Kim explained at the time during an interview with Piers Morgan. 'This isnt about more money, its not about more scenes This is about a clear decision, an empowered decision in my life, to end one chapter and start another. I'm 61. It's now.' Many of the stars of the show took to Twitter to share their disappointment over the third movie being canceled, and Kim called her former costars 'toxic' for not reaching out to her privately. She continued: 'Weve never been friends. Weve been colleagues, and in some ways, its a very healthy place to be. 'Nobody ever picks up the phone and tries to contact you and say, "How you doing?" That would have been the way to handle it. This is, it feels like, a toxic relationship.' Sarah later responded to Kim's claims while chatting with Andy Cohen. 'I found it very upsetting because thats not the way I recall our experience. Its sad, but I always think that what ties us together is this singular experience,' she said. 'It was a professional experience, but it became personal because it was years and years of our lives, so Im hoping that that sort of eclipses anything thats been recently spoken.' Sophie Habboo enjoyed some much needed rest and relaxation as she soaked up the sunshine on her honeymoon in Panama on Wednesday. The Made In Chelsea star, 29, looked incredible in a skimpy geometric print bikini as she relaxed outside her private villa. On the contrast, however, her husband Jamie Laing, 34, was looking considerably stressed as he lamented the loss of his luggage on their nightmare journey to arrive. Giving fans an update, he took to his Instagram Stories to explain: 'Good morning from Panama. Still no sign of the suitcase. At the beginning it was kind of funny because we were off away on our honeymoon but actually being on a honeymoon without your suitcase is a f***ing nightmare. 'So if anyone has any advice on how to find a suitcase on a flight - I don't know what I'm asking for... yes I know I should have had a tracker, I've been told that already. But anything at all because I have no clothes at all and I'm on my honeymoon!' Fun in the sun: Sophie Habboo enjoyed some much needed rest and relaxation as she soaked up the sunshine on her honeymoon in Panama on Wednesday Oops: On the contrast, however, her husband Jamie Laing, 34, was looking considerably stressed as he lamented the loss of his luggage on their nightmare journey to arrive Wowza! The Made In Chelsea star, 29, looked incredible in a skimpy geometric print bikini as she relaxed outside her private villa The pair finally arrived at their honeymoon suite on Tuesday after a nightmare start to their trip as that saw them forced to travel to four different countries in 24 hours due to flight cancellations. But the newlyweds had a positive update for their Instagram followers as they finally arrived at the stunning destination. Jamie was all smiles as he and Sophie enjoyed a coconut while relaxing in their lavish accommodation. Meanwhile, Sophie went topless and donned a pair of skimpy white bikini bottoms while topping up her tan. Jamie's nightmare honeymoon with new wife Sophie went from bad to worse on Tuesday as his luggage got lost while jetting across countries in a bid to make it to South America. The Made In Chelsea star updated fans on the latest tragedy as he revealed on Instagram that amid all the jet-setting his luggage had been lost. Revealing that he was 'beginning to lose his patience' as this point, the newlywed shared a selfie in front of his upset looking wife. He shared: '32hrs later we arrive in Panama @sophiehabboo luggage is here. Mine isn't... it's been left in Columbia... patience is starting to go now [angry face emojis].' It was the latest tragedy to beset the pair after he revealed they were forced to visit no less than four countries in just 24 hours in a bid to get to their honeymoon destination. Worth the wait: Jamie and Sophie finally arrived on their romantic honeymoon on Tuesday Beaming: Jamie, 34, was all smiles as he and Sophie, 29, enjoyed a coconut while relaxing in their lavish accommodation Earlier in the day, he shared a selfie as he wrote: 'Finally on flight two back to the UK from Amsterdam. This one was delayed 2.5 hours.' The TV personality shared a snap of Sophie looking at her phone while sat in the window seat of their plane as they jetted off on their third flight of the day to Columbia. Sharing a selfie of the couple looking less than impressed, the TV personality kept followers up-to-date and revealed his new wife had managed to stay calm despite the fiasco. He wrote: 'Now we're on a bus to a different terminal back in the UK.... This is mad. Proud @sohpiehabboo hasn't lost it yet'. He later added that he thought they were 'being pranked' as they also had no idea where in the world their luggage had found itself. Jamie continued: 'We're now put on different flights to Columbia and our luggage is still in Amsterdam... I think we're being pranked....' Once landing in Columbia in the very early hours of the morning, the Made In Chelsea star shared a video as the couples 'journey continued'. He said laughing: 'A little update for anyone who cares. We have arrived in Bogota in Columbia it's 3:15am. 'We now have to change flights and go to Panama and then change again to get to the other place. 'We don't even know if our luggage is with us because we think it's still in Amsterdam. The journey continues, isn't that right honey,' as Sophie trailed behind him in the airport. Jamie penned: '36hrs later... We're here (Bar some luggae)' Stunning: Sophie went topless and donned a pair of skimpy white bikini bottoms while topping up her tan Another blow: Jamie's nightmare honeymoon with new wife Sophie went from bad to worse on Tuesday as his luggage got lost while jetting across countries It comes after Jamie originally revealed on Monday the nightmare the happy couple were experiencing while jetting off to a lavish location for their honeymoon. He wrote: 'This is WILD... We're on our honeymoon to South America, connecting flight to Amsterdam. 'KLM are delayed but we still have time to make our flight. Without warning, they take us off our connecting flight. 'So now we have to fly back to London, then fly to Colombia, then fly to Panama, and then fly to our honeymoon destination. This is a total f*** up. Thanks @klm.' He then added: 'This actually means @sophiehabboo and I will visit four countries in 24 hours.' MailOnline has contacted KLM for more information. Jamie and Sophie tied the knot in an incredible ceremony in Spain earlier this month. However it wasn't all plain sailing in the lead up to the big day, as Sophie admitted during a row that Jamie revealed his plans to divorce her. Speaking on the new episode of their Nearlyweds podcast, Sophie revealed details a of a row where Jamie said: 'Urgh, I've got to stay married to you for at least a year.' Jamie explained that they would have to remain married for at least 12 months, otherwise people would comment that it was a short marriage. 'Delayed 2.5 hours': The Made In Chelsea stars revealed they had returned back to the UK from Amsterdam and jetted off on their third flight of the day to Columbia Off to a different terminal: Sharing a selfie of the couple looking less than impressed, Jamie kept followers up-to-date and revealed his new wife 'hasn't lost it yet' over the chaos On the Instagram page for the podcast, the couple shared a teaser from the episode, which was released after their second wedding ceremony in Sotogrande. The video was captioned: 'Jamie's plan to divorce Sophie after a year?! 1 day until THE WEDDING & we're just so excited so here's a little sneak peak at what's to come in next week's BIG WED POD.' At the start of the clip, Jamie told Sophie: 'It's so funny how our minds work because you're now so content that you're married to me.' Sophie then replied: 'And you're a little nervous Nancy.' Admitting she was right, Jamie said: 'Now I'm the stressed one. Joking that it was due to their recent legal marriage ceremony, which was held at Chelsea Registry Office, Sophie said: 'Because you're so upset you've married me. You're like f**k I'm locked in.' She revealed that Jamie previously revealed his plans to stay married to her for at least a year if things between them go south, saying: 'Once he said during an argument, "urgh I've got to stay married to you for at least a year. I was like, f**k you!' Clarifying his viewpoint, Jamie admitted: 'Yeah that's true. If it was before a year, everyone would be like well that was short. But a year, then you're like that's alright.' Love: Jamie and Sophie tied the knot in an incredible ceremony in Spain earlier this month Just married! Jamie explained that they would have to remain married for at least 12 months, otherwise people would comment that it was a short marriage Sophie then quipped: 'I'm going to slowly put Candy Kittens in my name, so you're locked in forever baby! Joking, everyone's going to think I'm a gold digger.' The couple tied the knot in their second wedding ceremony in Spain earlier this month. The former Made In Chelsea stars, who got married in front of their loved ones in south west London weeks before, said 'I do' in a grand ceremony after their legal ceremony The loved-up newlyweds have now shared their professional wedding video to Instagram, which includes all of the MIC original cast. Sophie looked elegant as she donned an embroidered white wedding dress with a huge lace veil. Jamie could be seen beaming as he wore a black suit with a matching bow tie and a white shirt, as he walked arm-in-arm with Sophie's friend Georgie Le Roux on arrival. Sophie and Jamie gave a glimpse of the lavish venue Sotogrande, the largest privately owned residential development in Andalusia. The couple shared a passionate kiss in front of the sunset after saying I do, as well as at the end of the aisle in front of their friends and family. The pair were joined by a number of their famous friends, including fellow former Made In Chelsea star Millie Mackintosh who looked resplendent in lemon yellow, while Love Island's Zara McDermott wore a floor-length blue dress with a thigh-high split and ruffled detail. Spencer Matthews was reunited with Jamie in Spain this week after Jamie failed to invite him to his UK wedding to Sophie in London last month. Incredible: Sophie, 29, looked elegant as she donned an embroidered white wedding dress with a huge lace veil Dapper: Jamie posed alongside his wedding party, who were all matching in black tuxedos, before the ceremony His fellow Made In Chelsea star Ollie Locke, 36, went shirtless as he wore a black dinner jacket and matching trousers for the evening. Ollie was seen arriving with his series co-star Olivia Bentley who looked glamorous in an off-the-shoulder red dress with keyhole detail at the front. Alongside the sweet clip, Jamie wrote: 'It happened.. To find true Love you must first find a true Friend' 'What an amazing night. I want to say thank you to all of our family and friends who came and have had to put up with all of our content over the past year Kaz Crossley looked sensational while posing for sizzling Instagram snaps during her trip to Phuket, Thailand on Wednesday. The former Love Island star, 27, showed off her toned figure in a tiny white bikini top, teamed with a teal maxi skirt. She went makeup free underneath a pair of oversized sunglasses, while her brunette locks were wet and slicked back. In a second behind-the-scene snap, Kaz revealed the tattooed male who was taking her holiday pictures. She teased a new romance with him as she captioned the post: 'His little mermaid' Wow! Kaz Crossley looked sensational in a tiny white bikini top while posing for sizzling Instagram snaps during her trip to Phuket, Thailand on Wednesday New romance: In a second behind-the-scene snap, Kaz revealed the tattooed male who was taking her holiday pictures The sizzling snaps comes after Kaz revealed she has suffered from hair loss as a result of 'recent stress' after she was held in a Dubai prison on suspicion of drug offences. The TV personality was detained at Abu Dhabi airport while transferring to a flight to Thailand where she says she was going to carry out voluntary work. Following the ordeal, Kaz revealed her hair had thinned as she shared a picture of a bald patch at the front of her head in the candid post. Alongside the images, Kaz wrote: 'I've just arrived in the Dominican Republic to celebrate my best friends birthday. Lucky us. 'But due to recent stress, I'm experiencing hair loss. It's got a lot thinner, I also have a small bald patch right at the front of my head. 'I'm trying to cover it by changing my parting or wearing one of my @kazbands (of course) but when I tie my hair up it's still so noticeable. 'In all honesty Im pretty sure it's getting worse. I'm not usually one to care too much about what I look like but its starting to affect my confidence. If anyone has gone through something similar I'd really appreciate your advice or any products/treatments you'd recommend. 'Feel free to comment below, you'd really be helping me out and hopefully others reading this too. P.S who knew that you can wear your Kazband inside out to get rid of the bow? Not me!' Struggles: The sizzling snaps comes after Kaz revealed she has suffered from hair loss as a result of 'recent stress' after she was held in a Dubai prison on suspicion of drug offences Troubles: The TV personality was detained at Abu Dhabi airport while transferring to a flight to Thailand where she says she was going to carry out voluntary work Her latest post comes after she broke her silence after being arrested in the United Arab Emirates on suspicion of drug offences and held in a Dubai prison. In 2020, she was filmed appearing to snort lines of white powder in Dubai when hordes of influencers flocked there to escape Covid-19 restrictions in the UK, claiming they were there for work. Speaking her 'own truth' on Instagram, Kaz said: 'Hi everyone. I wanted to do this video to speak my own truth and use my own voice about a situation that's happened to me. 'I feel like I owe it to my followers and I owe it to myself to get closure about this situation because it's been a good few years and I'm ready to move forward now.' She went on: 'In 2020, I was in Dubai. I was filmed - it was me in the video, no one forced me to do that - it was a time of my life where I definitely didn't love myself at all, probably. And this is reflected in what I was doing to my body and who I surrounded myself with.' '[The video] later got leaked and then, more recently, I was on my way to Thailand,' Kaz further explained. 'I had an amazing job offer. I was so excited for this job offer guys, it was like my dream job and I was staying up all night researching and, yeah, I did not think about the transit in Abu Dhabi and that it would be an issue for me because, obviously, I wasn't thinking and... yeah, everything happens for a reason. 'I was then detained in Abu Dhabi and kept in custody from Monday through to Friday, which is when they released me. 'I was very accepting of the situation and I was ready for whatever was going to happen to me because, at the end of the day, I take full accountability. I don't lie. I said that that was me in the video and explained the situation, it was a long time ago, etc.' 'It was a time of my life where I definitely didn't love myself': Her latest post comes after she broke her silence after being arrested in the United Arab Emirates on suspicion of drug offences and held in a Dubai prison The former Love Island star explained she's had a lot of messages of concerns from her followers, largely warning her about her friends in her circle. However, Kaz cleared up that the leaked video of her with a white substance was recorded by an ex, not one of her pals. The star then later took to Instagram Stories to clarify that the ex in question was not Love Island star Theo Campbell, who she dated from March 2019 to February 2020. She wrote: 'It wasn't Theo! We are friends now and just filmed a show together please stop sending him abuse. It was a relationship that I kept private. Thank you for all the love on my recent video love you all.' Ronnie Wood and his wife Sally shared adorable photos with their twin daughters to mark their 7th birthday on Tuesday. The veteran Rolling Stones guitarist, 75, looked every inch the doting dad as he smiled alongside Gracie and Alice. The twins were all smiles as they donned matching yellow t-shirts and colourful party hats while blowing out their candles. He also shared a throwback picture of the twins as babies, with the caption: 'Happy birthday to my beautiful Gemini girls, Gracie Jane and Alice Rose - 7 years old today!' Meanwhile, Sally wrote: 'My heart could burst! Happy 7th birthday Alice & Gracie ~ we love you so much what an adventure so far xxx Thank you for all your lovely messages to the girls' 'Happy birthday to my beautiful Gemini girls': Ronnie Wood and his wife Sally shared adorable photos with their twin daughters to mark their 7th birthday on Tuesday Family: The veteran Rolling Stones guitarist, 75, looked every inch the doting dad as he smiled alongside Gracie and Alice It comes after Ronnie, Sally and their two children attended Beyonce's latest concert at Tottenham Hotspur's stadium during her Renaissance world tour. Taking to Instagram later that night, Sally, 45, shared a montage of photos and video clips from the night, among them the family's chance backstage meeting with reality TV star Kris Jenner . The family were seen dancing while watching Beyonce from their private box, with Ronnie nodding his head in time as he observed from a nearby seat. Beyonce's husband Jay-Z and their daughter Blue-Ivy were also seen proudly watching from the audience, alongside Jenner and pop star Dua Lipa. The star kicked off her Renaissance world tour in Stockholm, Sweden, earlier this month and proved her show was worth the wait as she nailed a spectacular concert. The 41 date tour , which ends in North America in September, could gross between $275million and $2.57billion from tickets alone - which smashes The Eras Tour's $1.9billion projection. Billionaire Beyonce could make nearly $2.2billion from the tour, $600million more than the $1.6billion Taylor could earn. Ronnie married Sally, the owner of a theatre production company, in December 2012 before announcing they had twins on the way in December. Sally has previously discussed the attraction she felt towards Ronnie and how their romance works so well. She told The Telegraph: 'Hes on my level completely. Hes a very nice and caring person. Oh God, dont use the word "nice", its so boring. Hes very funny, kind and affectionate and welcoming.' Discussing their age gap, she said: 'Um, well, I know (the age gap's) there. And I wish it wasnt, but it is. I think I had to say: "I cant do this because of the age", Sweet: The twins were all smiles as they donned matching yellow t-shirts and colourful party hats He also shared a throwback picture of the twins as babies, with the caption: 'Happy birthday to my beautiful Gemini girls, Gracie Jane and Alice Rose - 7 years old today!' Sally wrote: 'My heart could burst! Happy 7th birthday Alice & Gracie ~ we love you so much what an adventure so far xxx Thank you for all your lovely messages to the girls' Loving it: With Beyonce entertaining upwards of 62,000 ticket-holders at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Monday, Ronnie Wood was in attendance with wife Sally and their two children 'Or I just had to let it go and take it all on board. At no point, years ago, did I say to myself: "I think Ill go out with someone twice my age", but that is what has happened.' Ronnie has been through a few romantic rollercoasters of his own, but his marriage to Sally has been notably calm and settled. The guitarist quit smoking after undergoing treatment for lung cancer in 2017 and has been sober since 2010. Wood has four other children Jesse, 46, with first wife Krissy Findlay, and 44-year-old Leah and Tyrone, 39, with ex-wife Jo. He also adopted Jo's son Jamie, 48. A General Hospital star was arrested after passing out drunk at an LA airport, his second public intoxication arrest in three years. Emmy winning actor Tyler Christopher, 50, best known for his role as Nikolas Cassadine on the long-running soap General Hospital, was found on the floor fast asleep on Friday at Burbank Airport in Los Angeles. Cops were alerted to the snoozing soap star and woke him. Christopher told the authorities he had missed his flight before he was handcuffed and booked for public intoxication. The authorities said Christopher displayed clear signs of being intoxicated and that he was 'unable to care for himself,' as per the news outlet. He was released shortly after his arrest and given a court date, the news outlet reported. Emmy winning actor Tyler Christopher, 50, (pictured in a November 2019 mugshot), who is best known for his role as Nikolas Cassadine on the long-running soap General Hospital. On Friday, he was arrested by the authorities after passing out drunk at an LA airport Tyler Christopher earned four Daytime Emmy nominations and in 2016 won the award for 'Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series,' after playing the role of Nikolas Cassadine for nearly two decades Christopher in a scene with actress Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth) during their days together on the long-running soap General Hospital This wasn't the first time the Indiana native has been arrested in an alcohol-related event. In November 2019, Christopher was arrested for public intoxication in his hometown of Martinsville forcing him to spend his 47th birthday behind bars. In that incident, an Uber driver had alerted officers to Christopher's lewd behavior after he allegedly passed out and urinated on himself after he'd been dropped off at his home. In that same month, he was arrested for being in an intoxicated state, and was cited for reportedly harassing, annoying or alarming another person, Page Six reported. It was not clear if he was drunk, or he had taken a controlled substance during that incident. In 2022, Christopher appeared on the mental health podcast 'State of Mind, with host and former General Hospital castmate Maurice Bernard's, aka Sonny, as per Soaps. During the episode, he spoke openly about his alcohol addiction and having his first drink at age 9. 'At some point, you cannot survive it,' he said. 'At some point, it will kill you and it has. 'Three times, I have flatlined. And nobody knows that,' he said. 'Three times I have flatlined, and they brought me back. Twice from [alcohol] poisoning, once from withdrawal.' That year, he also shared his journey to recovery and his mental health he posted on his social media, stating that he was returning to California and ready to get to work, as per the publication. Christopher spoke with Maurice Bernard, host of the podcast 'State of Mind,' and his fellow castmate on General Hospital, about his struggles with alcohol addiction in a 2022 episode and how had his first drink at age 9 Tyler in a scene on General Hospital. He also played the role of Stefan DiMera on the popular daytime show Days of Our Lives The veteran actor was married to 'Desperate Housewives' star Eva Longoria (pictured) from 2002 to 2004. The couple were pictured at the El Capitan Theater in Hollywood, California The veteran actor played the role of Nikolas Cassadine for two decades, he earned four daytime Emmy nominations and in 2016, he won the award for 'Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.' He also played the role of Stefan DiMera on the popular daytime soap, Days of Our Lives. The star, who was married to journalist Brienne Pedigo and divorced in 2021, share two children, a son Greysun James, 10, and a 4-year-old daughter, Boheme. He was previously married to Desperate Housewives star Eva Longoria from 2002 to 2004. Some of his television and film roles include Days of Our Lives, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and the Paul Winfield dramedy Catfish in Black Bean Sauce, earlier in his career. He also appeared in the crime drama No Turning Back, Face the Music, and The Twilight Zone. And, most recently, he acted in the 2014 romantic drama Beyond the Lights with Gugu Mbatha-Raw. Political engagement between the countries is missing for some time now. The historicity of bilateral relations will depend on Prachandas longevity as PM PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda will finally arrive today on a four days visit. Prachandas first visit was a state visit when he came after the 10 April 2008 Constituent Assembly elections to 575 elected seats (out of 601) after the monarchy was dismantled and Nepal declared a federal democratic, secular republic. Prachanda who won peace after ten years of civil war, became Nepals charismatic leader and beloved hero, his party winning 227 seats more than Nepali Congress (110)and CPN UML (103) combined. It was a rude shock for India which had put its money on Nepali Congress. Still, it tried to adjust to Maoist ways to give Prachanda a grand welcome with the expectation that he would be sensitive to Indias concerns and national interests. That hope was belied as Prachanda had ideas of a Peoples Republic chasing which he was forced to resign. The rest is a legend. In the second CA elections in November 2013, Maoists won 81 seats. Prachandas second visit was in 2016-17 when he switched to NC from UML for power-sharing with NC PM Sher Bahadur Deuba. After the 2017 elections, Maoists won 53 seats and were forced to join the Left alliance which won a nearly two-thirds majority but Prachandas hopes of becoming Prime Minister in a power-sharing deal with PM KP Oli never materialised. In November 2022 elections his party slumped to 32 seats but all through the electoral cycles, CPN (Maoist Centre) even with declining numbers, remained the number 3 party the kingmakers with NC and UML alternating as the single largest party. Prachandas reduced strength and power had not dimmed his ambition to be the prime minister. He demonstrated political dexterity in switching coalitions earlier this year to remain PM. Nepals mixed electoral system makes a single-party majority unlikely. People frustrated with the non-performance of older parties, voted TV anchor, Rabi Lamichhane, as leader of the fourth largest Rashtriya Swatantra Party (22 seats) and the rapper Balen Shah, Mayor of Kathmandu humbling NC, UML and Maoists. The three by-polls held in April in which RSP won two seats with overwhelming numbers including one from an NC stronghold have rung alarm bells for all political parties. Prachanda wants to revive the fortune of Maoists with Indias help. That is why Prachanda wants to make his present visit historic and a game changer in India-Nepal relations for which he has to win back Indias trust and most of all, the trust of the people of Nepal. He is now part of the eight-party coalition led by NC, along with CPN (Unified Socialist), Janata Samajwadi Party, Loktantrik Samajwadi Party, Janmat Party, Nagarik Unmukti Party and Rashtriya Jan Morcha. It is a different Prachanda who as Prime Minister leads the coalition and his party. He has to undo the pro-China image that he shed long ago that went unnoticed by New Delhis political elite. This will not be easy in a Left-Right coalition. Prachanda has to remould his party with a makeover of leadership. India should be impressed that Prachanda unlike in 2008 when he went to China first, has this time declined Beijings invitation for the Boao Forum in March and declared his intention to visit India first despite the scheduling and cabinet formation difficulties. New Delhi has not sent the right signals by failing to give an earlier date for his visit. It would have added to the credibility and stability of the coalition government. During the last Prime Ministerial visit of Mr Deuba last year, no major agreements were signed. Wait, watch and act after the November 2022 elections were India's policy. Mr Dahal has proved his nimbleness by securing three votes of confidence, signing two Common Minimum Programmes and getting the budget passed last Monday. He is also seen to be acting against corruption. One of the key expectations of Nepal is a more fair and liberal power trade agreement. At a power summit held in Kathmandu in April, Nepalese power traders complained that India had not provided full access to power markets as per the MoU of 2014. New Delhi has so far permitted the sale of 452.6 MW whereas Kathmandu wants to sell 1000MW of power. There are other restrictions to the sale of power especially from projects with any connection with Chinese companies or Chinese contractors. Besides trade with India, it wants to diversify sell to Bangladesh also. Connectivity is the other big expectation. The DPR of the 136 km Raxaul-Kathmandu railway project spurred by an earlier Chinese proposal of a Railway from Kirung to Kathmandu has to be progressed It is estimated to cost USD 2.5bn for which Nepal wants a grant. Nepal is also interested in India setting up a fertilizer plant and or a pipeline similar to the petroleum pipeline from Birgunj to Amlekhgunj. The Pokhara international airport built by the Chinese with a China Eximbank loan remains confined to domestic use because of Indian reservations. Another issue that may come up is Agniveer due to which Gorkha's recruitment from Nepal is in suspended animation. Overall 12 MOUs are to be signed which is historic. Political engagement between leaders missing for some time now requires restoration. The historicity of bilateral relations will depend on the stability of the coalition and Prachandas longevity as PM. In some ways they are interdependent. (The writer, a retired Major General, was Commander, IPKF South, Sri Lanka, and founder member of the Defence Planning Staff, currently the Integrated Defence Staff. The views expressed are personal) Filmmaker Ayan Mukerji says Ranbir Kapoor-Deepika Padukone starrer "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani", which completed 10 years on Wednesday, represents a piece of his "heart and soul". Released on May 31, 2013, "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani" was Mukerji's second feature after he made his directorial debut with 2009's "Wake Up Sid", also starring Kapoor. "YJHD - My second child, a piece of my heart and soul - 10 years old today! I think after all these years, I can confidently say that... Making this movie was one of the greatest joys of my life! And what we achieved with it - with all its perfections and imperfections - is a source of great eternal pride for me," the filmmaker wrote in a post on Instagram. Also starring Kalki Koechlin and Aditya Roy Kapur, the romantic comedy followed the stories of four friends -- Bunny (Kapoor), Naina (Padukone), Avi (Kapur) and Aditi (Koechlin) as they go through the various adventures life has in store for them. Mukerji, 39, revealed that he has never seen "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani" from "beginning to end, since the day it released". "But when I'm older and wiser - I think I will watch the movie at least once a year - because a big part of who I was and how I looked at life - is forever captured in this movie!" he added. The filmmaker said even today, people recognise him more for "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani" than "Wake Up Sid" and his most recent directorial "Brahmastra: Part One - Shiva". "So, putting out a whole lot of gratitude for 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' and all the many people who connected deeply with the movie over the years!" he added. Koechlin also celebrated the film's milestone moment on Instagram and said she will always cherish the memories she made while working on the movie. "How we've all grown and learnt since then and yet some things I can't imagine any different, like @deepikapadukone will always be teaching us a dance step we can't follow, @adityaroykapur will always be our big Lebowski, Ranbir will always play a prank that makes us squeal and @ayan_mukerji will always ask us uncomfortably personal questions that lead to the best conversations," the 39-year-old actor wrote. Actor Kunaal Roy Kapur, who played Koechlin's love interest and husband Taran, marked the film's 10th anniversary with a witty post. "Happy 10th Anniversary Kalks! @kalkikanmani @deepikapadukone @adityaroykapur @ayan_mukerji @evelyn_sharma #yjhd @tanviazmiofficial @karanjohar" he wrote. Produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions, "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani" also featured late Farooq Shaikh and Tanvi Azmi in pivotal roles. India and Cambodia on Tuesday reviewed the entire spectrum of their ties during talks here between Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni. They also held discussions on key areas like capacity building, defence and parliamentary cooperation here, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. Earlier in the day, King Sihamoni was accorded a ceremonial welcome by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also present to greet the King at the forecourts of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Modi later tweeted, saying, Delighted to welcome King HM Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia. Our nations share deep historical and cultural ties, and we look forward to strengthening our friendship and cooperation even further. May his visit mark a new chapter in India-Cambodia relations. In a tweet, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said he was honoured to call on King Sihamoni. His visit, as our two countries celebrate 70th anniversary of our diplomatic relations, reaffirms the strong civilisational bond between us. Today that is expressed in cooperation in heritage conservation, demining, water conservation and socio-economic projects. Discussions between Dhankhar and the Cambodian King covered multiple areas of bilateral relations, including capacity building, conservation of architectural monuments, defence cooperation, including de-mining, parliamentary cooperation, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said. In a separate tweet, the Vice President Secretariat said Dhankhar recalled the warm welcome and good discussions during his visit to Cambodia for India-ASEAN and East Asia Summits in 2022. They had wide-ranging discussions on bilateral relations and other issues of mutual interest, it said. The visiting dignitary on Tuesday morning paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat. The Cambodian King arrived here on Monday on a maiden state visit. He is accompanied by a 27-member high-level delegation, including the minister of the royal palace, minister of foreign affairs and other senior officials. The state visit marks the culmination of the celebrations of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Cambodia. In the backdrop of tension prevailing in Manipur, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Tuesday said challenges in the State have not disappeared, but expressed hope that things will settle down in some time. He also noted that the situation in the north-eastern State now is not related to insurgency. These observations by him came as the death toll due to ethnic clashes in Manipur which began on May 3 went up to 80 and Home Minister Amit Shah who is now on a visit to the State held talks with various groups. The CDS was in Pune on Tuesday to review the passing out parade of 144th course of National Defence Academy (NDA). Asked about situation in Manipur, he told reporters that, The Army, Assam Rifles were deployed in Manipur before 2020. Since the challenges of northern borders were far more, we were able to withdraw Army. Since insurgency situation had normalised, we were able to do that. The situation now in Manipur is not related to insurgency. It is a clash between two ethnicities and a situation of law and order, he said.We are helping the State Government with the problem, the CDS said. "I would like to say that the armed forces and Assam Rifles have done an excellent job there and may have saved a large number of lives. Though the challenges in Manipur have not disappeared, it will take some time. Hopefully this will settle and the Government there will be able to do the job with the help of CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) etc," he said. In his address to the cadets, Chauhan spoke about the deployment of China's PLA (People's Liberation Army) along the northern borders. "We see the war in Europe, the deployment of China's PLA along the northern borders and geo-political crisis in neighbouring countries. These crises present a challenge to India, but the armed forces are capable of maintaining the legitimacy of India's claims and peace in the region," he said. Deployment of Chinese army on India's northern borders is not increasing day-by-day, he said adding deployment on the northern borders is at the same level as it was in 2020. "They haven't gone back. So, there is a challenge actually," he added. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday visited Churachandpur, the scene of some of the worst rioting in the recent ethnic conflict which broke out in Manipur earlier this month, and held talks with Kuki civil society leaders. He also held a series of discussions with different Meitei groups, women groups and prominent personalities earlier during the day in Imphal before flying to the headquarters of the hill district by the same name. Among others, Shah who was accompanied by Intelligence Bureau (IB) chief and Union Home Secretary, met political and social leaders from the Kuki community to understand their grievances and find ways to bring peace to the northeastern state, which has witnessed a series of clashes between Meiteis and Kukis. He held three rounds of talks with various groups such as Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), Kuki Students Organisation (KSO) and other civil society organisations. He also met five Kuki MLAs from the BJP. We demanded total separation from Manipur both political and geographical. We also sought Presidents Rule as the law and order has totally collapsed in the State, ITLF secretary Muan Tombing told PTI. The Home Minister on his part, requested the Kuki society to maintain peace for the next 15 days with an assurance of sending more security personnel for the safety of common people, he added. Asked why Shah mentioned only 15 days, Tombing said, He told us that the CBI will be entrusted with carrying out a detailed probe to find out the reasons behind this prolonged clash. Besides, a judicial enquiry will also be announced. Earlier in the day, the Government announced it will provide a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the next of kin of those who died in the ethnic conflict and a job to a family member. The compensation amount will be borne equally by the Centre and the State, an official release said. The decision was taken at a meeting between the Union Home minister and Chief Minister N Biren Singh in the presence of the Council of Ministers on Monday night. During the meeting, it was also decided to ensure that essential items such as petrol, LPG, rice and other foodgrains will be made available in large quantities to cool down rising prices. In Imphal, Shah held consultations on Tuesday with stakeholders starting with a breakfast meeting with a group of women leaders at Raj Bhavan as part of his initiative to bring peace to the violence-hit State. "Held a meeting with a group of women leaders (Meira Paibi) in Manipur. Reiterated the significance of the role of women in the society of Manipur. Together, we are committed to ensuring peace and prosperity in the State," Shah tweeted. After that he met several CSO groups and prominent personalities from the Meitei community at the Secretariat before leaving for Churachandpur. "Had a fruitful discussion with the members of different civil society organisations today in Imphal. They expressed their commitment to peace and assured that we would together contribute to paving the way to restore normalcy in Manipur," he added. After meeting Shah, Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) coordinator Jeetendra Ningomba said they requested the Union Home Minister to take appropriate measures to protect territorial and administrative integrity of the state."We also demanded immediate abrogation of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the Kuki militant groups and devise effective counter-terror actions. Besides, we asked for replacement of Assam Rifles for their softness towards the Kukis," he added. He claimed that Shah had assured the delegation there would be no compromise on Manipur's territorial integrity. Another group award winning international and national sportspersons from Manipur on Tuesday tried to meet him and later said at a press conference that they will return prizes given to them by government if state's territorial integrity is compromised. The signatories to this include L Anita Chanu (Dhyan Chand awardee), Arjuna awardees N Kunjarani Devi (Padma Shri), L Sarita Devi and W Sandhyarani Devi (Padma Shri awardees) and S Mirabai Chanu (Padma Shri). If Home Minister Amit Shah does not give us an assurance about the protection of the integrity of Manipur, we will return our awards given by the Indian government," Anita Chanu said at a press conference in Manipur's capital. After coming back from Churachandpur, Shah Later in the evening, held an all-party meeting in Imphal. The Home Minister also reviewed security situation with senior officials of Manipur Police, central police forces and the Indian Army. Peace and prosperity of Manipur is our top priority, he said and instructed officials to strictly deal with any activity disturbing the peace. Top Congress leaders on Tuesday met President Droupadi Murmu and sought her intervention in helping bring normalcy in violence-hit Manipur, and called for the constitution of a high-level enquiry commission headed by a serving or retired Supreme Court judge to probe the incident. A delegation of Congress leaders led by party Chief Mallikarjun Kharge met the President and handed over a memorandum to her seeking her urgent intervention and handed over a 12-point charter of demands to be taken immediately to help bring peace and normlacy in the north-eastern State. Though there were several lapses in the management of the situation at the early stages of violence, leading to the present imbroglio. Now it is not the time to point fingers, but to act. If the suggestions above are implemented in earnest, peace can perhaps be restored once again. The Congress party is a responsible political party and is ever ready to lend support to any initiative to restore peace, normalcy and harmony in the state of Manipur," the Congress memorandum to the President said. They also called for firm and sustained efforts must be made to control violence in every part of the State for the immediate restoration of peace, harmony, and normalcy, and urged the President to ask the Centre to immediately take all possible measures to control and confine all militant groups (including those under SoO) and ensure that all armed civilian groups be stopped forthwith by taking appropriate action. The state government must immediately take over the management and maintenance of all relief camps and provide proper health and sanitation facilities for all, the party suggested in its memorandum. The letter and spirit of the existing Constitutional provisions related to the state of Manipur must be protected, and the trust between communities should be restored through reconciliation and dialogue, it also said. "It is with a deep sense of loss and hurt that we humbly submitted a memorandum to the President of India, for her kind intervention so that the extraordinary situation confronting Manipur can be redressed and normalcy can be brought in urgently," Kharge said on Twitter after the meeting. "As a responsible political party, the Indian National Congress is ever ready to lend support to any initiative to restore peace, normalcy and harmony in Manipur. We humbly submit the following 12 demands for immediate action. Only then there will be peace in the state," the Congress president said. Among those who were part of the Congress delegation that met the President besides Kharge were former chief minister Ibobi Singh, Congress leader Mukul Wasnik, former deputy chief minister Gaikhangam and PCC president Keisham Meghachandra Singh, besides AICC in-charge for Manipur Bhakt Charan Das. Later, addressing a press conference, AIC general secretary Jairam Ramesh said the current situation in Manipur is a result of the divisive politics of the BJP which is clearly responsible. "It is the intelligence failure, the administrative failure and the political failure in Manipur," Ramesh told reporters, accusing the BJP for its divisive politics which is responsible for the current situation in the north eastern state. He said the current crisis is the result of BJP's "neeyat and neetiyon" (intent and policies) and alleged that there was a lack of will on the part of the state and central government to resolve it. "This is the second time in the last 22 years. Manipur burned in the June of 2001 when Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji was the prime minister, Manipur is burning in 2023 when Mr Narendra Modi is the prime minister. There is something in the politics and ideology of the BJP, there is something in the way the BJP manages the diversity of Manipur and other states that is not conducive to social harmony in the long run," Ramesh said. Taking serious notice of reports that some miscreants have created fake Facebook accounts and PM-KUSUM portal to dupe innocent people by ensuring them to install solar pumps, Punjab New and Renewable Energy Sources Minister Aman Arora on Tuesday clarified that no applications have been invited for the scheme while issuing the contact numbers to register complaint about the fraud in the name of solar pumps. Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) has not invited applications for setting up agriculture solar pumps under PM-KUSUM Scheme, said Arora, issuing an official clarification. It has come into my notice that some miscreants have created fake Facebook accounts and PM-KUSUM Portal to dupe innocent people by ensuring them to install solar pumps, and they are demanding the advance amount from the farmers, besides collecting documents related to their land, bank accounts, Aadhar card and pictures etc, he noted. Issuing strict warning to such miscreants for strict action, the Minister asked the PEDA officials to lodge a police complaint to get the matter investigated. He also released mobile numbers of contact persons at PEDA Joint Director Rajesh Bansal (94174-80801), Senior Manager Harnek Singh (94178-51616), and Manager Nayab Mittal (79867-37895) to lodge complaint about the fraud being committed by these miscreants in the name of installing Solar pump sets. Urging the farmers not to fall prey to these miscreants, Arora said that the farmers should contact the above-mentioned PEDA officials via phone if they find any advertisement or social media message in this regard. Whenever PEDA will invite the applications for setting up solar pump sets under the PM-KUSUM scheme, all will be informed through newspapers and other official mass media platforms, he said. June 05 is celebrated as World Environment Day. Under the joint aegis of Environment Protection and Sustainability Department of BSL and Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board, various programmes are being organized for the awareness of environmental protection. Under this, an awareness campaign related to plastic pollution will be organized in the morning of May 31 in Sector-5 Hatia. Quiz and poster competition related to bio-medical waste at BGH on June 2, cleaning of Sun Temple reservoir through public participation on June 3, quiz competition and speech for officers and personnel in Executive Director (Operations) seminar room on June 3. Speech competition, painting and environmental quiz competition for school children and environmental quiz competition for parents and housewives will also be organized in the Institution of Engineers on 5th June. Notably this year, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India has envisaged celebrating World Environment Day 2023 with emphasis on Mission LiFE. Concept of LiFE, i.e. Life Style for Environment. These events are open to all and have an emphasis on life themes i.e. save energy, save water, stop single use plastic, reduce waste, adopt a healthy lifestyle and reduce e-waste. Maximum participation of children, parents and housewives has been called for in this campaign of environmental protection by participating in various programs being jointly organized by the Environment Protection and Sustainability Department of Bokaro Steel Plant and the Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board. A Dalit youth was allegedly brutally thrashed after being kidnapped by five men for not voting in favour of one of them in last years panchayat elections in Rathiwas village, police said on Tuesday. The victim was allegedly also threatened at gunpoint but was later rescued by his parents, who rushed him to a hospital, they said. On Monday, police registered an FIR against the five accused at Bilaspur Police Station. All five have been absconding since the incident was reported late on Sunday night, and police is trying to nab them, SHO of Bilaspur Police Station Rahul Dev said. In his complaint, the Dalit youth said two men from the village Manish and Monu approached him near the villages Hanuman Temple around 10 pm. They told him that Sanjit Rathi, who had contested to be the village sarpanch in Rathiwas, had called him to his house, according to the complaint. I refused to go with them but they forcibly took me to Rathis house, where Deepak and Kalia were also present, the victim said. Rathi and the others locked me inside a room and thrashed me with sticks. They also threatened to kill me and used casteist slurs, he said. Later, pointing a pistol at the victim, Deepak asked why he did not vote for Rathi in the sarpanch election, according to the complaint. After the victims parents reached Rathis house, he was released, it said. They allowed me to go with my parents who took me to a nearby hospital, the victim said. After receiving information about the incident, a police team reached the hospital where the youth was admitted. The introduction of the Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana by the Chhattisgarh government has encouraged farmers to explore a wider range of crops. The government offers a subsidy of Rs 9,000-10,000 per acre to farmers for cultivating crops other than paddy. Consequently, farmers in Janjgir-Champa district are shifting from paddy cultivation to alternative crops. Laxmi Jaiswal, a progressive farmer from Rasota village in the district, has shifted from paddy to groundnuts. He has benefitted from subsidies offered under the scheme. He is also receiving support from the agricultural department. He explained that choosing alternative crops not only helps maintain soil quality but also ensures a steady and higher income during a specific period. Presently, he is cultivating groundnuts on three acres of land, generating an income of about Rs 60,000 per acre and earning lakhs of rupees in total. He intends to expand the cultivation of groundnuts in the upcoming season. The Delhi High Court on Tuesday dismissed the bail plea of former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia in the excise policy scam being probed by the CBI, saying he is an influential man and the allegations against him are very serious in nature. The court since Sisodia was at the helm of affairs when the alleged scam took place, he cannot say he had no role to play. In its 43 pages judgement, Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma denied the relief to the AAP leader, who was arrested on February 26, saying he has held the post of the deputy chief minister with 18 portfolios and added the witnesses are mostly public servants and could be influenced. Presently also, the party of the applicant is in power. Therefore, it cannot be disputed that the applicant is a high profile person and has potential to influence the witnesses. Therefore, the apprehension of the CBI that the applicant might tamper with or otherwise adversely influence the witnesses cannot be ignored. The applicant is also not entitled to parity in view of his unparalleled position, Justice Sharma said in a 43-page judgment. Sisodia was arrested by the CBI on February 26. The high court said the allegations against him are very serious in nature. Citing the allegations against the AAP leader, it said, the excise policy was formed at the instance of the South Group with malafide intention to give undue advantage to them. Such an act points towards the misconduct of the applicant, who was admittedly a public servant and holding highest position. The statement of the concerned excise officers has been relied upon by the CBI, it said. The gravity (of offence) and the allegations do not entitle the accused to be admitted to bail, it said, adding the court is clear about the fact that the excise policy has not been examined in the present proceedings nor the powers of the government to frame economic policies. It said economic policies framed by the government also fall within their domain and courts have to be very slow in interfering with them. However, the court cannot interfere into the same, only if such policy decisions have been taken bonafidely and in the interest of the public. But if such policy decisions or schemes are alleged to have been taken malafidely or have the taint of any corrupt practice then certainly such decisions are required to be enquired into by concerned investigating agencies and examined by the court, the high court said. It also said the AAP leader failed the triple test required for grant of bail in the view of the seriousness of the allegations and his position. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has said that the disposal of 96.6 per cent cases at the state level is a remarkable achievement in the Mukhyamantri Jan-Seva Abhiyan which started from May 10. Various pending works of the common man should be completed by July 15. This campaign was conducted as a spell of good governance. Along with the administrative staff, the ministers in charge of the districts should also continuously review the redressal of public grievances. Chief Minister Chouhan also congratulated the administrative staff and peoples representatives of 5 districts Ratlam, Dewas, Shajapur, Khargone and Indore for resolving maximum number of applications while doing excellent work in the campaign. Congratulating the rest of the districts for the smooth operation of the campaign, Chief Minister Chouhan directed them to regularly complete small tasks of the general public within the time-limit and to redress the complaints of the CM Helpline immediately. Chouhan was reviewing after apprising himself about the redressal of cases under the Mukhyamantri Jan-Seva Abhiyan 2.0 which started from May 10 in Mantralaya. Cabinet members, Chief Secretary Iqbal Singh Bains and other officers were present. Chouhan said that the various problems of the citizens should always be taken seriously. In order to get justice to the people, the process of resolving the problems should go on constantly. The results of the campaign are good, but success in true sense will be considered when no work remains pending. Chouhan said that the basis of good governance is that the work of the general public should be done without any hassles. Whether it is the work of giving caste certificate, demarcation matters or work like building permission, it is necessary to do it within the time limit. The Chief Minister informed that he had discussed with the citizens of Morena, Sheopur etc. districts over telephone two days ago and inquired about their problems. The problems of the citizens were resolved promptly by the administrative officers. The problems pointed out by the people regarding electricity and water supply, C.C. road construction and the implementation of the schemes were resolved immediately. Mukhyamantri Jan-Seva Abhiyan, in this way, can also help in solving peoples problems by enquiring about their grievances. Chouhan said that more than one crore 25 lakh sisters have been registered under Mukhyamantri Ladli Bahna Yojana in the state. From June 01, distribution of acceptance letters to the eligible sisters in the districts should be done in a ceremonial manner. This activity will go on continuously for a period of one week. Ministers in-charge should also be present and in case of being busy elsewhere they can join virtually. Urban Development and Housing Department in wards of urban areas and Panchayat and Rural Development Department in rural areas should co-operate with Women and Child Development Department for this work. In this work co-operation of members of Deendayal Samitis, members of Jan Abhiyan Parishad, public representatives, social workers etc. should be obtained. Ladli Bahna Gram Sabhas should also be held in the rural areas on June 08. A feeling of happiness and joy has been seen towards this scheme which will change the lives of the sisters. This should be expressed by lighting earthen lamps in homes. The task of verifying the linking of the accounts should also be completed by transferring an amount of Re 1 to the sisters' accounts on an experimental basis. Chouhan said that should be accorded with utmost priority. Motivating and encouraging activities like uploading photos can also be done through social media. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has once again sent the name of Justice (retd) Rajiv Kumar Srivastava to the Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena for his appointment as the new chairperson of the power regulator Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC). The move comes in the wake of the Supreme Court May 19 order that directed Lt Governor of Delhi to act on the aid and advice of the council of ministers and to appoint DERC chairperson within two weeks. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has once again sent the file for the appointment of the DERC chairperson to the LG of Delhi. This action follows the stern reprimand issued by the Supreme Court of India on May 19, which directed the LG to fulfil the appointment within a two-week time frame, the government said. The appointment of the DERC chairperson is crucial to effectively regulate the electricity sector in Delhi. The recent decisions handed down by the Supreme Court on May 11, 2023, in the Services Matter and May 19, 2023, in the DERC matter, reaffirmed the constitutional framework that requires the LG to act upon the aid and advice of the state government, except in matters pertaining to land, law and order, and the police force, it said. In January this year, the Delhi Chief Minister had approved appointment of Justice (retd) Srivastava as the DERC chairperson. The appointment of the DERC Chairperson is crucial to effectively regulate the electricity sector in Delhi. Four months ago, the Kejriwal government approved the appointment of retired Justice Rajiv Kumar Srivastava as the DERC Chairperson. The proposal of his appointment was presented by then-Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who was in charge for the Power Ministry. Prior to this, the appointment of the two previous DERC Chairpersons was carried out through the same process outlined in the Electricity Act, the statement said. On May 19, the Supreme Court ordered the Delhi Lieutenant Governor to make a decision on the matter within two weeks while hearing the case. The Supreme Court also stated that the LG of Delhi is obligated to work in cooperation and on the aid and advice of the elected government. In light of the Supreme Courts order, the Kejriwal government has once again sent the file to the LG, recommending the appointment of retired Justice Rajiv Kumar Srivastava as the DERC Chairperson. The Delhi government had earlier filed a petition in the top court over the delay of the DERC chiefs appointment. In the appointment of Justice (retd) Srivastava, Delhi government has referred to Section 84(2) of the Electricity Act, that requires consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court of the appointees original jurisdiction, the statement said. Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has said that in view of its geographical conditions, the union government should further extend its Industrial promotion scheme in Uttarakhand. He was addressing the second meeting of the apex monitoring authority of National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation trust on Tuesday. Dhami virtually attended the meeting chaired by the Union Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman. He said that the geographical conditions of Uttarakhand are similar to the north eastern states. In the meeting the CM expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the union government for including Uttarakhand in the Amritsar- Kolkata industrial corridor project. The project would come up in a 1000 acre of land in Kichha of Udham Singh Nagar. The CM said that direct investment of Rs 7500 crore would be made in the project and it would create 20,000 new employment opportunities. Dhami said that the State government has set up the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), environmental clearance, shareholders agreement, state support agreement, ground water permission and approval of a map for the mega project. He added that the project can now be commenced and the State government has also provided land to the State Infrastructure and Industrial Development Corporation of Uttarakhand Limited (SIIDCUL) to be handed over to the SPV of the project. A Detailed Project Report (DPR) for internal development associated with the infrastructure development works is also ready. UPC and irrigation departments have prepared the DPR for external infrastructural works such as power supply and flood safety works. Dhami requested the union government to provide its share of Rs 410 crore soon which would ensure completion of all infrastructure development works in a time bound manner. Terming the project as a centre of economic progress, the CM disclosed the State government is also working on a plan to set up a green field city in an area of 3000 acre near the project. Dhami said that work on construction of a satellite centre of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Degree College in Kichha and bus depot in the area has started. Pantnagar airport is also near the proposed project and a plan to develop this airport into an international airport is on the anvil. Dhami said that the State government is working in a planned manner for overall development of the area. The meeting was attended by Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Sarbananda Sonowal, CM of many States, deputy chairman of NITI Aayog Suman Beri and others. A day after the ruling BJP swept the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council bypolls, BSP supremo Mayawati on Tuesday lashed out at the Samajwadi Party for fielding Dalit and OBC candidates despite knowing that the numbers were stacked against them. She also appealed to the Dalit and backward class people to be careful with the Samajwadi Party. She alleged that the Akhilesh Yadav-led party ignored these sections when it was in power. The saffron party sailed comfortably in the legislative council bypolls held on Monday, with both its candidates Manvendra Singh and Padmasen Chowdhary posting comfortable wins over SPs Ram Jatan Rajbhar and Ramkaran. In the UP Legislative Council by-elections to two seats held yesterday, the SP fielded Dalit and OBC candidates even though the defeat was certain, and got them defeated. The party ignored them when it was in power proves that the conspiracies of the SP against these sentions has not changed even a bit, Mayawati tweeted in Hindi. Cautioning the backward sections against the nefarious designs of the Samajwadi Party, she said in another tweet, Dalits, OBCs and marginalised people have suffered a lot due to such narrow and hateful politics of SP and its government. Thats why there is a dire need for these sections to be always careful and avoid such losses in future. This is the appeal of the BSP. The opposition unity suffered a blow in the MLC bypolls, with Congress legislators not casting their votes even as the lone BSP MLA could not make it to Lucknow to exercise his right. Based on its numerical strength in the legislative assembly, the Bharatiya Janata Party was comfortably placed to secure victory for both its candidates. The SP had entered into the fray at the last moment apparently to give a message that it would not give a walkover to the ruling party. In a suspected case of rape and murder, the body of a teenager, missing for about two weeks, was recovered from an under-construction house in Kasya locality of Kushinagar. After getting information, local police and senior officers rushed to the spot along with a team of forensic experts. The body was later sent for autopsy. Senior officers claimed that they were waiting for the postmortem report before going ahead with the investigation. Reports said that the body of Rinki (18), daughter of Rajendra Rajbhar, a resident of Bharwa Toli of Buddha Nagri under Kasya police station, was found in an under-construction house on Monday evening. According to bereaved family members, the girl had gone missing about a fortnight ago. The family members initially tried to search for her on their own, but in vain. Later, they lodged a complaint with the Kasya police on May 20 last. The girls mother said that her husband had died of illness 15 years back and that Rinki was the second among her four children. Her elder daughter is already married. Kasya police station incharge Ashutosh Tripathi said that the family had not suspected the role of anyone. Meanwhile, two persons were killed and another was injured when their car rammed into a stationary trailer on Sultanpur-Lucknow Highway in Amethi district on Monday night. The accident occurred near Dharauli village. The trio were coming to Lucknow from Sultanpur when the tragedy struck. One of the deceased was identified as Sheelu Kumar (27). The identity of the other deceased, aged around 30 years, could not be ascertained. The injured person was admitted to a hospital, police said. A team of Manesar Cyber Police Station has busted a Nigerian gang for allegedly cheating at least 20 women of crores of rupees by befriending them on Instagram. The accused have been identified as Ebuka Felixi and Chukwaka Ivar, who were arrested from Delhis Nilothi on Monday, the police said. During police interrogation, the accused revealed that five people were involved in their gang. All of them used to target women through Instagram. The gang has so far confessed to cheating on more than 20 women. According to police, the victim was a local woman who reported the matter on April 10 at Manesar Police Station. The Chhattisgarh government has fined Rs 53,000 an officer who drained out 41 lakh litres of water from a weir in Kanker district to retrieve his mobile phone, it was announced on Tuesday. The Water Resource Department (WRD) imposed a fine of Rs 53,092 on Rajesh Vishwas, who was a food officer in Pakhanjore in Kanker district. Vishwas was charged with draining out the water using a diesel pump without permission after his phone fell into the weir on May 21. The officer was fined Rs 43,092 at the rate of Rs 10.50 per cubic meter besides a penalty of Rs 10,000 for wasting water from the weir, the department said. The Kanker Collector suspended him after the incident came to light on May 26. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's Cabinet is set for another reshuffle of his Council of Ministers, with the state Local Government Minister Dr Inderbir Singh Nijjar tendering his resignation from the Cabinet on personal grounds. Forwarding the same to Governor Banwarilal Purohit for early acceptance, the Chief Minister has also proposed the names of Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) legislators Balkar Singh from Kartarpur, and Gurmeet Singh Khudian from Lambi for inducting in his Cabinet. The exit of Amritsar South MLA Dr Nijjar from the Cabinet came as a surprise and against the speculations that it would be Food and Civil Supplies Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak, facing serious allegations of sexual misconduct, who would put down his papers. Notably, Dr Nijjar was inducted in the Cabinet in July last year, along with four other Ministers. A spokesperson of the Chief Ministers Office said that in a communique to the Governor, Bhagwant Mann has impressed upon him to accept the resignation of Dr Nijjar, who has resigned on personal grounds, from Cabinet. The Chief Minister has also proposed the names Balkar Singh, MLA Kartarpur, and Gurmeet Singh Khudian, MLA Lambi, for inducting them as Cabinet Ministers. He had requested the Governor to accord kind approval to administer the Oath of Office and Secrecy to the new Ministers at 11 am on May 31 in Punjab Raj Bhawan, Chandigarh, said the spokesperson. As per the information available, the Raj Bhawan had not received any file from the Government regarding the Cabinet reshuffle till 8 pm, before the Governor called it a day. Thus, the Governors approval to the resignation and the timings for the oath ceremony of two new ministers will come only after the file will be put before him on Wednesday morning. As of now, the time slot of 11 am has been reserved on the Governments request, a government official informed The Pioneer. Punjab can have 18 ministers, including the Chief Minister. Currently, there are 15 Ministers in the Cabinet, including Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. After Tuesdays expansion, two posts will still be vacant. In July, Mann carried out the first Cabinet expansion, inducting five Ministers. The Cabinet reshuffle is being carried out on the day when AAP supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is also scheduled to be in Chandigarh on Wednesday. As per reports, the ruling AAP is planning to exhibit its strength, especially at a time when its top leadership is going nationwide to gather support in party-led Delhi Governments fight against the Centres ordinance. Chief Minister Mann has invited all the Ministers, party MLAs, along with the parliamentarians from both the House of the Parliament for dinner on Wednesday night, along with their spouses and families, at his official residence. The meeting assumes significance as Kejriwal would be meeting the party leaders for the first time after recently winning the Jalandhar bypoll. By winning the Jalandhar Lok Sabha by-election, AAP has secured a berth in the Lok Sabha, which has also come as a morale-booster for the party, especially ahead of the ensuing 2024 general elections. Besides, the dinner diplomacy is also expected to be aimed at apprising the state party leaders about the Ordinance brought in by BJP-led Central Government to gain control over officers in Delhi, besides sharing with them the progress made in its outreach campaign. It has been learnt that the AAP, in its attempt to take on board all the non-BJP parties, including the Congress, in fight against the Centres ordinance, wanted its Punjab leaders to try creating a scope for dialogue with the state Congress unit over the matter, and putting forth its point. Notably, the Punjab Congress unit had strongly asked the party high command not to extend its support to the AAP and Kejriwal over the ordinance row. As per available information, Kejriwal would be spending a night at Chandigarh before leaving with Bhagwant Mann on Thursday for Tamil Nadu and Odisha to gain support of the DMK and BJD against the Centres ordinance. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has forwarded the resignation of Local Government Minister Inderbir Singh Nijjer from the Council of Ministers to Governor Banwari Lal Purohit for early acceptance. A spokesperson of the Chief Ministers Office on Tuesday said that in a communique to the Governor, Mann has recommended he accept the resignation of Nijjer, who has resigned on personal grounds, from Cabinet. The Chief Minister has also proposed the names Balkar Singh, MLA Kartarpur, and Gurmeet Singh Khudian, MLA Lambi, for inducting them as Cabinet Ministers. He has requested the Governor to accord approval to administer the Oath of Office & Secrecy to the new Ministers at 11 am on May 31 in Punjab Raj Bhawan, Chandigarh. The Samajwadi Party is set to intensify its campaign for consolidating its support base among Dalits and OBCs. The party is buoyed by the results of bypolls to two seats of UP Legislative Council on Monday. The Samajwadi Party was aware that it lacks the numbers and cannot win the elections, yet we fielded a candidate from the SC community and the other from the OBC group to send across the message to disadvantaged sections of society that their status in power structure is being compromised under the BJP rule and that SCs and OBCs are denied their right of reservation in state services, a Samajwadi Party leader said, adding: We will take this message to every nook and corner of the state in the coming months. SP sources said that the poaching attempts made by the BJP proved futile and the SP-RLD alliance succeeded in keeping its flock together. The strength of the SP-RLD alliance is 118. Two MLAs were in jail and one could not cast his vote due to being hospitalised. One candidate of the SP polled 115 and the other got 116 votes. We forced the BJP to suspend its programme of preparations for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and hold meetings with the party MLAs and keep them in good humour so that they remain loyal to the party while casting their votes in the bypoll, a Samajwadi Party leader said. The landslide victory of the Congress in Karnataka state assembly elections has, however, posed a challenge for the Samajwadi Party. The en bloc Muslim vote by Muslims to the Congress decimated the Janata Dal (Secular) which had given tickets to 22 Muslim candidates but they all lost. The SP apprehends that it is likely to have a spillover effect and Muslims may turn to Congress in the next years Lok Sabha elections. After the Karnataka state assembly results, the Samajwadi Party has toned down its rhetoric against the Congress. Earlier, Akhilesh Yadav was asking the Congress to support regional parties where they were in a position to challenge the hegemony of the BJP. Akhilesh had also said that the Congress should decide its role in the Lok Sabha elections whether or not it wanted to support the SP in the electoral battle against the BJP. Though the Samajwadi Party has not officially stated its position, it is no longer aspiring for the lead role in formation of an opposition alliance in UP. Stating that cyber criminals are now creating 'secured' websites that appear completely genuine to a user, the cyber police station of Uttarakhand Special Task Force (STF) issued new guidelines to identify such fake websites. The cyber criminals these days are not just finding new ways of committing cyber frauds but are upgrading their methods to ensure they can lure maximum victims, said the deputy superintendent of police of cyber cell police station, STF, Ankush Mishra. Many such cyber criminal groups have been targeting pilgrims during Char Dham Yatra to make bookings for helicopter services via their fake websites. The STF has blocked dozens of such fake websites in the past two months but the cyber criminals have started creating new websites that appear secure and genuine to users. The DSP said that cyber criminals are now creating websites using Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) which secures communication and data transfer between a user's web browser and a website while they earlier used to create websites using HTTP which is not considered secure like the former. He said that such fake websites might appear genuine to a user who can click on links mentioned there or provide his/her necessary information which can lead to financial fraud. Considering this, he said that people should remember some points to identify such websites. He said that most such fake websites are single page websites and no matter where one click, the same page remains open. He said that many links mentioned there would not work, especially social media pages which are mentioned there to increase the reliability factor in users. He said that one can also check at the bottom when the said website was created as the more recently created website has more chances of being fake than the old one. Toll Free number mentioned on fake websites will be a mobile number and not the usual long toll free number with several digits, said Mishra. He said that one should also look out for spelling errors in the URL or address bar of the website as genuine websites do not have these errors. Several spelling and grammatical mistakes in the content of the website also point to a fake website. They will also send messages and SMS to create fear of closing a bank account stating your KYC details are needed immediately and asking the user to click the provided link which leads to a fake website, said DSP. He said that cyber criminals will ask for crucial information or documents like Aadhar or PAN cards on the pretext of giving a heavy discount on tickets and services which is not usually done by genuine websites. He asked the users to always stay cautious while using a website or making any online transaction. One must immediately file any cyber complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in or call at 1930 for financial cyber fraud, added Mishra. In a significant move to address the problem of stray animals in urban areas, the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has announced that efforts will be made to catch these animals as this issue will now be included in the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) by bringing changes in the missions scope. The ministry has made necessary provisions and modifications to the missions scope to address this pressing concern. The new arrangement involves the acquisition of cattle catcher vehicles to effectively capture stray animals, Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Puri told The Pioneer. Puri was in Lucknow to address the media on the achievements of nine years of the Narendra Modi Government. Additionally, a comprehensive campaign will be launched in every district, spanning at least 25 days each month, to apprehend these animals. The target is to capture a minimum of 10 animals daily, amounting to a total of at least 250 animals per month, he said. The decision to address the issue of stray animals stems from the recognition that their presence contributes significantly to the uncleanliness of cities. In fact, they have been identified as a major cause of backwardness and environmental degradation during cleanliness surveys. To combat this problem, the ministry has devised a plan to capture stray animals and relocate them to animal shelter centers or kanji houses, thus effectively managing their presence within the purview of solid waste management. The first phase of this initiative will be rolled out in 139 major cities, including all municipal corporations and large municipalities in Uttar Pradesh. The government has allocated an initial installment of Rs 24.32 crore to facilitate the execution of this program. Subsequently, the plan will be extended to selected cities across the country. To ensure smooth implementation, each district will designate a nodal agency responsible for capturing stray animals within its jurisdiction. This agency will oversee all aspects related to the procurement of vehicles and the management of animals. Moreover, the nodal agency will establish a roster system to guarantee the regular availability of vehicles in all districts. Cattle catcher vehicles obtained through the mission will be made available for rental purposes as well. The district magistrate of each respective district will determine the rates for acquiring vehicles from the nodal agency and establish rental rates and the roster schedule. The inclusion of stray animals in the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) is a step in the right direction to address the challenges posed by their presence in cities. By effectively capturing and relocating these animals, the government aims to mitigate the adverse effects they have on cleanliness and environmental well-being. Puri expressed hope that through meticulous planning and effective execution, this initiative will significantly contribute to enhancing urban areas, thereby ensuring cleaner and healthier living conditions for residents. The Uttar Pradesh Police and Amazon India are coming together with consumer education and awareness campaigns to deal with the menace of online shopping scams. The two partners are collaborating to explore several joint initiatives aimed at empowering consumers to shop online with greater confidence. The UP Police and Amazon India have agreed to join hands to educate online consumers about their rights and raise awareness about safe shopping. These joint projects will also include special initiatives aimed at enhancing online safety of women by creating awareness about identity theft, impersonation and online financial frauds, a police spokesman said here on Tuesday evening. Amazon India is excited to join forces with the Uttar Pradesh Police to promote awareness regarding online scams and frauds. This association will help us deliver on our shared mission of enhancing online safety to promote a trustworthy digital space. This collaboration will not only educate a large consumer base but also enable us to identify and foster a secure digital experience, a senior official of the company said. Special DG (Law and Order), UP, Prashant Kumar said, Amazon is a strong partner and our alliance will help us not just fight but also prevent online scams. Our partnership comes at a time when we are witnessing a significant surge in online transactions post-Covid, courtesy convenience of online shopping and UPI payment infrastructure. There is an increased need for consumers to be vigilant and our joint initiatives will help us do just that. The partnership with the UP Police will complement Amazon Indias consumer education initiative, Mission GraHAQ, that is spreading awareness about safe online shopping practices, consumer rights and more. A 36-year-old woman was arrested for allegedly killing her flatmate early Tuesday morning for abusing her father who had died three months ago. According to police, Sapna, the accused, worked as a waitress or a decorator for parties. She is divorced and has a daughter. The incident took place in Majnu Ka Tila in north Delhis Civil Lines area, police said, adding they were informed about the incident around 7 am. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday again hit out at the Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena and asked him to rein in the collapsed law and order in the city which has seen two cold blooded murders this week alone. On reaching the spot, police found the body of 35-year-old Rani lying in a pool of blood with Sapna also there, a senior police officer said. During interrogation, Sapna broke down and confessed to the crime, police said. She told police that she and Rani lived in a rented flat in Majnu Ka Tila. Rani used to work at a beauty parlour in Gurgaon, a senior police officer said. On Monday night, Sapna and Rani along with a group of friends had a dinner party till around 1 am at their friend Nehas house in Aruna Nagar area of Majnu Ka Tila. During the party, Sapna and Rani, who were both drunk, had a fight, he said. After the party, they both returned to their flat and continued drinking. Around 4.30 am, they again had an altercation which turned into a scuffle during which Sapna stabbed Rani with a kitchen knife in her chest. The trigger for the assault, Sapna told police, was Ranis abusing her dead father. Rani was rushed to a nearby hospital where she succumbed immediately, police said. Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) Sagar Singh Kalsi said, Teams of FSL and crime have inspected the spot. We have registered a case of murder under section 302 of the Indian Penal Code. Based on the investigation, the accused Sapna was arrested after she confessed to her crime. Efforts are being taken to recover the weapon of offence. After the post mortem, Ranis body will be handed over to her family, police said. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi on Wednesday hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his remarks in the United States targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Joshi described the former Congress president as a "fake Gandhi" and as a person "who knows nothing" but has become an expert on everything. At an event in Santa Clara in the US, Gandhi took a dig at Prime Minister Modi, describing him as a "specimen" who could start explaining to God how the universe worked. "That is the disease. We have a group of people in India, who are absolutely convinced that they know everything. In fact, they think they know even better than God. They can sit down with God and have a conversation and explain to him about what is going on. Of course, our prime minister is one such specimen," Gandhi said. Hitting back at Gandhi, Joshi claimed that the Congress leader's knowledge of history did not go beyond his family. "It is funny how someone who knows nothing is suddenly an expert on everything. A man whose history knowledge does not go beyond his family is talking about history," the senior BJP leader said. "A man who claimed to produce gold out of potatoes is giving lectures about science and a man who never ventured beyond family affairs now wants to lead India's warfare," Joshi said. "No Mr. Fake Gandhi! The core of India is its culture. Unlike you, who use foreign soil to tarnish the country, Indians are very proud of their history and can very well defend their geography," the Parliamentary Affairs Minister said. Gandhi was speaking at the 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' event organised by the Indian Overseas Congress USA. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday visited the India-Myanmar border town of Moreh in Manipur and met Kuki civil society groups, besides reviewing security measures in place. Shah, who flew into Imphal on Monday night, also visited Kangpokpi district in the afternoon, and met various groups there as well, officials said. "Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri @AmitShah met with a Kuki delegation in Moreh, Manipur, today," Union Home Ministry Spokesperson tweeted. He also met with the representatives of different communities including the handful of Tamil traders who live in Moreh, the official said in a separate post on the microblogging site. "Held a meeting with the delegations of Kuki and other communities at Moreh. They expressed strong support for the government's initiatives to restore normalcy in Manipur," Shah said. Shah also held a security review meeting at Moreh in Tengnoupal district with the officials from various central and state forces, he added. "Took stock of the security situation with senior officials in Moreh (Manipur)," Shah tweeted. He was accompanied by Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Director of the Intelligence Bureau Tapan Kumar Deka on the trip. Chief Minister N Biren Singh however was not present at these meetings. As part of his mission to broker a lasting peace in the troubled state, Shah met a cross-section of Kuki and Meitei leaders on Tuesday, besides top security officers to seek a solution to the spate of ethnic clashes that have rocked the state. He also held an all-party meeting in the evening. Ethnic clashes broke out in the state nearly a month ago after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. After a relative lull for over a fortnight, the state witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes, and gunfight between militants and security forces on Sunday. So far, over 80 people have been killed in the violence, according to officials. The Bhagwant Mann government in Punjab on Wednesday expanded its cabinet by inducting AAP MLAs Gurmeet Singh Khudian and Balkar Singh as ministers. Governor Banwarilal Purohit administered oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers at the Raj Bhavan here. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was also present. Khudian, 60, is legislator from Lambi seat in Muktsar. He was the party's giant slayer who defeated five-time chief minister Parkash Singh Badal from his home turf by a margin of 11,396 votes in the 2022 Punjab Assembly polls. Khudian, the first-time MLA, had joined the AAP after quitting the Congress in 2021. Balkar Singh, 60, is an MLA from Kartarpur reserved seat in Jalandhar. Singh, a former police officer, had joined the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in 2021 after he retired from the Punjab Police. Singh is also the first time legislator. Kartarpur assembly seat falls in the Jalandhar Parliamentary constituency from where AAP candidate Sushil Rinku registered victory in the bypoll this month. Rinku had secured maximum lead from the Kartarpur assembly segment out of total nine assembly segments in the Jalandhar parliamentary constituency. It is the third cabinet expansion of the 14-month old Mann-led government in Punjab. In July 2022, the Bhagwant Mann government had carried out its first cabinet expansion, inducting five party legislators. In January this year, senior AAP leader and Patiala Rural MLA Dr Balbir Singh was sworn-in as cabinet minister, after Fauja Singh Sarari tendered his resignation. On Tuesday, Inderbir Singh Nijjar had tendered his resignation as minister on personal grounds. Chief Minister Mann on Tuesday had sent Nijjar's resignation to the governor for acceptance. Nijjar's resignation came after his reported statement seeking to back Barjinder Singh Hamdard, the editor-in-chief of Punjabi newspaper Ajit. Hamdard is under the vigilance bureau scanner over the alleged misuse of funds in the execution of Rs 315 crore Jang-E-Azadi memorial in Jalandhar. Currently, the strength of the Mann-led cabinet is 15, including the chief minister. With the induction of two new ministers and following resignation of Nijjar, the strength of the cabinet will be 16. There are a total of 18 berths in the cabinet. Later talking to reporters, both Balkar Singh and Khudian thanked Mann and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal for their induction as ministers. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Wednesday claimed some lawmakers from the Shiv Sena headed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde were in touch with the Uddhav Thackeray-led party. His remarks came a day after an editorial in the Shiv Sena (UBT) mouthpiece 'Saamana' claimed 22 MLAs and nine MPs from rival Shiv Sena were feeling suffocated due to step-motherly treatment by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and could quit the group led by CM Shinde. Asked whether lawmakers from the rival Sena camp are in touch with the Shiv Sena (UBT), Raut, who is the party's spokesperson, told reporters here, Communication is always there. They (those from the Shinde camp) ventilate their grievance, but it is not right to tell this publicly. They have made a mistake (to leave Uddhav Thackeray) and they have to handle it." "Those in the Shinde group will have to contest on the BJP symbol. This is the stand of the BJP. We have this information, the Rajya Sabha member further said. Latching on to Shiv Sena MP Gajanan Kirtikar's remark that his party was getting step-motherly treatment, the editorial in 'Saamana' on Tuesday dubbed the Shinde group MLAs and MPs as "hens and cocks imprisoned in the BJP's coop and added that it cannot be said when they could be slaughtered. The Thackeray-headed Shiv Sena (then undivided) exited the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in 2019 and joined hands with the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party to form a government in Maharashtra. Last year, Shinde and 39 other MLAs revolted against the Shiv Sena leadership, leading to a split in the party and collapse of the Thackeray government. Shinde subsequently joined hands with the BJP to form government. Apple Hospitality REIT, Inc. (NYSE:APLE Get Rating) saw a significant increase in short interest in the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 3,620,000 shares, an increase of 19.1% from the April 30th total of 3,040,000 shares. Currently, 1.7% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average daily volume of 1,880,000 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.9 days. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research analysts have weighed in on APLE shares. StockNews.com started coverage on Apple Hospitality REIT in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Compass Point downgraded Apple Hospitality REIT from a buy rating to a neutral rating and decreased their price target for the company from $22.00 to $17.00 in a research note on Wednesday, March 22nd. Wells Fargo & Company upgraded Apple Hospitality REIT from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and decreased their price target for the company from $18.00 to $17.00 in a research note on Thursday, March 30th. Finally, B. Riley decreased their price target on Apple Hospitality REIT from $20.00 to $19.00 in a research note on Monday, May 8th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $18.00. Get Apple Hospitality REIT alerts: Apple Hospitality REIT Price Performance NYSE APLE traded up $0.04 during midday trading on Tuesday, hitting $14.55. The company had a trading volume of 1,583,531 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,714,840. The company has a market capitalization of $3.33 billion, a PE ratio of 20.78, a P/E/G ratio of 1.54 and a beta of 1.17. The company has a current ratio of 0.98, a quick ratio of 0.98 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $15.11 and a 200-day moving average price of $16.03. Apple Hospitality REIT has a twelve month low of $13.66 and a twelve month high of $18.22. Apple Hospitality REIT Dividend Announcement Insider Transactions at Apple Hospitality REIT The firm also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, May 31st will be issued a dividend of $0.08 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, May 30th. This represents a $0.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.60%. Apple Hospitality REITs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 137.14%. In other Apple Hospitality REIT news, Chairman Glade M. Knight purchased 5,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 5th. The shares were bought at an average price of $15.50 per share, with a total value of $77,500.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chairman now directly owns 568,109 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,805,689.50. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Insiders have acquired a total of 5,718 shares of company stock valued at $88,489 over the last 90 days. 7.00% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Apple Hospitality REIT A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Amalgamated Bank raised its holdings in shares of Apple Hospitality REIT by 2.2% during the 4th quarter. Amalgamated Bank now owns 28,208 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $445,000 after buying an additional 598 shares in the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA increased its holdings in Apple Hospitality REIT by 1.0% in the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 68,077 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $957,000 after purchasing an additional 700 shares in the last quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. increased its holdings in Apple Hospitality REIT by 0.8% in the 4th quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 92,924 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,467,000 after purchasing an additional 739 shares in the last quarter. Lido Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Apple Hospitality REIT by 1.5% in the 1st quarter. Lido Advisors LLC now owns 52,034 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $935,000 after purchasing an additional 786 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Van Lanschot Kempen Investment Management N.V. increased its holdings in Apple Hospitality REIT by 6.8% in the 1st quarter. Van Lanschot Kempen Investment Management N.V. now owns 12,500 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $194,000 after purchasing an additional 800 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 79.39% of the companys stock. Apple Hospitality REIT Company Profile (Get Rating) Apple Hospitality REIT, Inc is a self-advised real estate investment trust company, which invests in income-producing real estate, primarily in the lodging sector. It owns hotels located in urban, high-end suburban, and developing markets throughout states, which operates under Marriott, Hilton, or Hyatt brands. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Apple Hospitality REIT Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Apple Hospitality REIT and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Centamin plc (TSE:CEE Get Rating) declared a dividend on Thursday, June 1st, TickerTech reports. Investors of record on Friday, June 23rd will be paid a dividend of 0.025 per share on Friday, June 23rd. This represents a dividend yield of 1.47%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 1st. Centamin Stock Performance Shares of TSE:CEE traded up C$0.05 during trading on Tuesday, hitting C$1.70. 3,600 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 33,486. Centamin has a 1-year low of C$1.15 and a 1-year high of C$2.05. The company has a market capitalization of C$1.97 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.25, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 0.53. The companys fifty day simple moving average is C$1.77 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$1.77. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a quick ratio of 2.09 and a current ratio of 2.78. Get Centamin alerts: Insider Transactions at Centamin In other Centamin news, Senior Officer Ross Jerrard bought 52,490 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 22nd. The stock was purchased at an average cost of C$1.00 per share, with a total value of C$52,647.47. 0.14% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. About Centamin 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. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Centamin Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Centamin and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. CMS Energy Co. (NYSE:CMS Get Rating) saw a significant increase in short interest in May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 9,230,000 shares, an increase of 20.7% from the April 30th total of 7,650,000 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 2,110,000 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 4.4 days. Analysts Set New Price Targets CMS has been the topic of several research reports. Bank of America raised CMS Energy from a neutral rating to a buy rating and reduced their target price for the stock from $68.00 to $66.00 in a report on Wednesday, March 8th. BMO Capital Markets cut their target price on CMS Energy from $70.00 to $64.00 in a research report on Friday, May 19th. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price target on shares of CMS Energy from $74.00 to $73.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, February 3rd. TheStreet upgraded shares of CMS Energy from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. Finally, Mizuho lowered their price objective on shares of CMS Energy from $69.00 to $68.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. One 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 data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $67.56. Get CMS Energy alerts: CMS Energy Price Performance CMS traded down $0.20 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $56.90. 1,636,423 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,030,140. The firm has a market capitalization of $16.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.51, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.45 and a beta of 0.36. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $60.67 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $61.32. The company has a quick ratio of 0.77, a current ratio of 1.02 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.76. CMS Energy has a one year low of $52.41 and a one year high of $71.97. CMS Energy Dividend Announcement CMS Energy ( NYSE:CMS Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The utilities provider reported $0.70 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.66 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $2.28 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.32 billion. CMS Energy had a net margin of 8.09% and a return on equity of 9.59%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 3.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.20 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts predict that CMS Energy will post 3.11 EPS for the current year. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 31st. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 5th will be given a dividend of $0.4875 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, May 4th. This represents a $1.95 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.43%. CMS Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 83.69%. Insider Activity In other CMS Energy news, SVP Brandon J. Hofmeister sold 1,250 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $60.00, for a total value of $75,000.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 64,131 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,847,860. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other CMS Energy news, SVP Brandon J. Hofmeister sold 1,250 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $60.00, for a total value of $75,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 64,131 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,847,860. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, SVP Brian F. Rich sold 4,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $61.72, for a total value of $246,880.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 91,927 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,673,734.44. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 6,500 shares of company stock worth $396,880. 0.40% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Several institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of CMS. AMI Investment Management Inc. acquired a new position in CMS Energy in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $203,000. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC lifted its stake in shares of CMS Energy by 15.3% in the first quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC now owns 4,179 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $292,000 after buying an additional 555 shares in the last quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. bought a new position in shares of CMS Energy during the first quarter valued at about $3,914,000. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP lifted its position in shares of CMS Energy by 6.1% during the first quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 982,606 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $68,724,000 after purchasing an additional 56,659 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Blair William & Co. IL lifted its position in shares of CMS Energy by 2.6% during the first quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 6,561 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $459,000 after purchasing an additional 168 shares in the last quarter. 92.16% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. CMS Energy Company Profile (Get Rating) CMS Energy Corp. engages in the provision of electric and natural gas activities. It operates through the following business segments: Electric Utility, Gas Utility, and NorthStar Clean Energy. The Electric Utility segment focuses on generation, purchase, distribution, and sale of electricity. The Gas Utility segment includes purchase, transmission, storage, distribution, and sale of natural gas. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for CMS Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CMS Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Kobe Steel, Ltd. (OTCMKTS:KBSTF Get Rating) was the target of a large growth in short interest during the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 1,388,400 shares, a growth of 20.0% from the April 30th total of 1,156,900 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 0 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently days. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Separately, Mizuho upgraded shares of Kobe Steel from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research note on Monday. Get Kobe Steel alerts: Kobe Steel Price Performance Shares of Kobe Steel stock remained flat at $7.74 during trading hours on Tuesday. The stocks 50-day moving average is $7.74 and its two-hundred day moving average is $6.14. Kobe Steel has a 1 year low of $4.47 and a 1 year high of $8.04. About Kobe Steel Kobe Steel, Ltd. engages in the manufacture, production, and sale of iron and steel. It operates through the following segments: Iron and Steel, Welding, Aluminum and Copper, Machinery, Engineering, Construction Machinery, Power, and Other Businesses. The Iron and Steel Business segment includes steel wire rods and bars, steel sheets, steel billets, steel castings and forgings, titanium and titanium alloys, foundry pig iron, slag products, stainless steel tube, construction materials, and other specialty steel products. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Kobe Steel Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Kobe Steel and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:MFDX Get Rating)s share price was down 0.9% on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as $27.05 and last traded at $27.11. Approximately 7,368 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 64% from the average daily volume of 20,734 shares. The stock had previously closed at $27.36. PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF Stock Down 0.9 % The company has a market capitalization of $135.55 million, a PE ratio of 9.15 and a beta of 0.80. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $27.71 and a two-hundred day moving average of $26.95. Get PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF alerts: Institutional Inflows and Outflows A hedge fund recently raised its stake in PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF stock. Flow Traders U.S. LLC increased its holdings in PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF (NYSEARCA:MFDX Get Rating) by 8.4% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 39,263 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 3,044 shares during the period. Flow Traders U.S. LLC owned approximately 0.93% of PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF worth $1,007,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. About PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF The PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF (MFDX) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in total market equity. The fund tracks an international, developed-market equity index that selects securities according to a combination of fundamental and technical factors. MFDX was launched on Aug 31, 2017 and is managed by PIMCO. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Coursera, Inc. (NYSE:COUR Get Rating) saw a large growth in short interest during the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 5,180,000 shares, a growth of 6.6% from the April 30th total of 4,860,000 shares. Currently, 4.8% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Based on an average daily volume of 1,130,000 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 4.6 days. Coursera Stock Performance COUR traded up $0.05 on Tuesday, reaching $12.50. The company had a trading volume of 1,163,551 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,022,134. The company has a market cap of $1.88 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -10.72 and a beta of 1.79. Coursera has a 52-week low of $9.81 and a 52-week high of $17.66. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $11.30 and a 200 day simple moving average of $12.49. Get Coursera alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms recently issued reports on COUR. Truist Financial downgraded shares of Coursera from a buy rating to a hold rating and dropped their target price for the company from $17.50 to $12.00 in a research report on Monday, February 27th. KeyCorp dropped their target price on shares of Coursera from $19.00 to $17.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. Morgan Stanley lowered their price objective on shares of Coursera from $18.00 to $17.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, March 31st. Needham & Company LLC restated a buy rating and set a $19.00 price objective on shares of Coursera in a report on Friday, March 10th. Finally, Telsey Advisory Group restated an outperform rating and set a $20.00 price objective on shares of Coursera in a report on Friday, March 10th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $17.08. Insider Activity at Coursera Institutional Inflows and Outflows In other Coursera news, Director Andrew Y. Ng sold 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $10.84, for a total transaction of $542,000.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 7,380,398 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $80,003,514.32. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink . In other news, CFO Kenneth R. Hahn sold 10,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, April 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $12.01, for a total value of $120,100.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 708,303 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,506,719.03. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website . Also, Director Andrew Y. Ng sold 50,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, March 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $10.84, for a total transaction of $542,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 7,380,398 shares in the company, valued at $80,003,514.32. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last three months, insiders have sold 873,294 shares of company stock valued at $9,918,457. 16.30% of the stock is owned by insiders. Several large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its holdings in shares of Coursera by 0.9% in the first quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 312,725 shares of the companys stock worth $7,205,000 after purchasing an additional 2,907 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can bought a new position in shares of Coursera in the first quarter worth approximately $2,214,000. MetLife Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Coursera by 55.4% in the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 40,863 shares of the companys stock worth $941,000 after purchasing an additional 14,570 shares during the last quarter. Vontobel Holding Ltd. grew its holdings in shares of Coursera by 2.6% in the first quarter. Vontobel Holding Ltd. now owns 71,452 shares of the companys stock worth $1,623,000 after purchasing an additional 1,798 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Allianz Asset Management GmbH grew its holdings in shares of Coursera by 45.7% in the first quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 13,892 shares of the companys stock worth $320,000 after purchasing an additional 4,357 shares during the last quarter. 62.31% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Coursera Company Profile (Get Rating) Coursera, Inc operates an online educational content platform that connects learners, educators, organizations, and institutions. It offers online courses that include data science, business, computer science, information technology, health, social sciences, logic, project management, and digital marketing services; campus student plans; degree courses; and certification education. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Coursera Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Coursera and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The Goldman Sachs Group initiated coverage on shares of Telefonica Brasil (NYSE:VIV Get Rating) in a research note issued to investors on Tuesday, The Fly reports. The firm set a buy rating on the Wireless communications providers stock. Several other brokerages have also recently issued reports on VIV. UBS Group raised Telefonica Brasil from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, January 31st. StockNews.com started coverage on Telefonica Brasil in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Finally, Barclays boosted their price objective on Telefonica Brasil from $10.00 to $11.00 in a report on Friday, May 12th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $26.00. Get Telefonica Brasil alerts: Telefonica Brasil Stock Performance VIV traded down $0.26 on Tuesday, reaching $8.13. 1,682,430 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,971,698. The companys 50-day moving average price is $8.01 and its 200 day moving average price is $7.62. Telefonica Brasil has a fifty-two week low of $6.49 and a fifty-two week high of $11.04. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20, a current ratio of 0.89 and a quick ratio of 0.84. The firm has a market capitalization of $13.52 billion, a PE ratio of 16.93, a PEG ratio of 3.41 and a beta of 0.48. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Telefonica Brasil Telefonica Brasil Company Profile Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of VIV. Credit Suisse AG increased its stake in shares of Telefonica Brasil by 543.6% in the 3rd quarter. Credit Suisse AG now owns 7,485 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock valued at $57,000 after purchasing an additional 6,322 shares in the last quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Telefonica Brasil in the 4th quarter valued at about $66,000. Quantbot Technologies LP purchased a new stake in Telefonica Brasil during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $68,000. FMR LLC increased its stake in Telefonica Brasil by 578.8% during the 1st quarter. FMR LLC now owns 9,863 shares of the Wireless communications providers stock worth $75,000 after buying an additional 8,410 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Icon Wealth Partners LLC purchased a new stake in Telefonica Brasil during the 1st quarter worth approximately $80,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 6.76% of the companys stock. (Get Rating) Telefonica Brasil SA, together with its subsidiaries, provides mobile and fixed telecommunications services to residential and corporate customers in Brazil. Its fixed line services portfolio includes local, domestic long-distance, and international long-distance calls; and mobile portfolio comprises voice and broadband internet access through 3G, 4G, 4.5G, and 5G as well as mobile value-added services and wireless roaming services. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Telefonica Brasil Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Telefonica Brasil and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Alamos Gold Inc. (NYSE:AGI Get Rating) (TSE:AGI) has been given an average recommendation of Hold by the ten analysts that are covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the company. The average twelve-month target price among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is $16.00. Several research firms have weighed in on AGI. Laurentian cut shares of Alamos Gold from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, April 27th. StockNews.com downgraded Alamos Gold from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, May 26th. CIBC increased their price objective on Alamos Gold from C$17.50 to C$18.50 in a research report on Tuesday, February 7th. TD Securities cut shares of Alamos Gold from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, Scotiabank initiated coverage on shares of Alamos Gold in a research report on Monday, April 24th. They set an outperform rating and a $14.50 price target on the stock. Get Alamos Gold alerts: Hedge Funds Weigh In On Alamos Gold Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. grew its position in Alamos Gold by 260.7% in the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 84,778 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $1,036,000 after acquiring an additional 61,276 shares during the last quarter. Harvest Portfolios Group Inc. bought a new position in Alamos Gold in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $658,000. Caldwell Investment Management Ltd. acquired a new stake in Alamos Gold in the first quarter valued at approximately $4,459,000. Colony Group LLC grew its stake in shares of Alamos Gold by 27.3% during the first quarter. Colony Group LLC now owns 506,551 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $6,195,000 after buying an additional 108,755 shares during the last quarter. Finally, First Trust Advisors LP increased its holdings in shares of Alamos Gold by 8.9% during the first quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 12,280 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $150,000 after buying an additional 1,005 shares in the last quarter. 50.22% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Alamos Gold Stock Performance Alamos Gold stock opened at $12.11 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $12.86 and a 200 day simple moving average of $11.19. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.78 billion, a P/E ratio of 50.46, a PEG ratio of 1.82 and a beta of 1.09. Alamos Gold has a 52 week low of $6.35 and a 52 week high of $14.12. Alamos Gold (NYSE:AGI Get Rating) (TSE:AGI) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 27th. The basic materials company reported $0.12 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.08 by $0.04. Alamos Gold had a net margin of 10.58% and a return on equity of 4.98%. The firm had revenue of $251.50 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $231.55 million. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $0.05 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 36.3% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts forecast that Alamos Gold will post 0.46 earnings per share for the current year. Alamos Gold Announces Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, March 30th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, March 16th were paid a dividend of $0.025 per share. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, March 15th. This represents a $0.10 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.83%. Alamos Golds payout ratio is 41.67%. Alamos Gold Company Profile (Get Rating) Alamos Gold, Inc engages in the exploration, development, mining and extraction of precious metals. It operates through the following segments: Young-Davidson, Mulatos, Island Gold, Elchanate, Kirazli and Corporate and Other. The company was founded on February 21, 2003 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Alamos Gold Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Alamos Gold and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (NYSE:BAM Get Rating) (TSE:BAM.A) have been assigned a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the ten analysts that are covering the stock, MarketBeat Ratings reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, three have assigned a hold recommendation, four have given a buy recommendation and one has issued a strong buy recommendation on the company. The average twelve-month price target among brokers that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $43.50. A number of brokerages recently weighed in on BAM. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft assumed coverage on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a research report on Tuesday. They issued a hold rating on the stock. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut shares of Brookfield Asset Management to an underperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 18th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on shares of Brookfield Asset Management from $35.00 to $39.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, February 9th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada restated an outperform rating and issued a $40.00 price objective on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a research report on Tuesday, March 28th. Get Brookfield Asset Management alerts: Brookfield Asset Management Trading Up 0.2 % NYSE BAM opened at $30.81 on Wednesday. Brookfield Asset Management has a 12 month low of $26.76 and a 12 month high of $36.50. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $32.00 and a 200 day simple moving average of $33.75. Brookfield Asset Management Dividend Announcement Insiders Place Their Bets The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 30th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, May 31st will be issued a dividend of $0.32 per share. This represents a $1.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.15%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, May 30th. In other Brookfield Asset Management news, Director Multi-Strategy Mast Brookfield sold 24,744 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $11.96, for a total transaction of $295,938.24. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 21,104,923 shares in the company, valued at approximately $252,414,879.08. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Brookfield Asset Management Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of BAM. Signaturefd LLC grew its holdings in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 288.8% in the 1st quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 762 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 566 shares in the last quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of 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 acquiring an additional 700 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC grew its holdings in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 107.9% in the 1st quarter. CWM LLC now owns 1,021 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $33,000 after acquiring an additional 530 shares in the last quarter. UMB Bank n.a. bought a new position in shares of Brookfield Asset Management in the 1st quarter valued at about $35,000. Finally, HBC Financial Services PLLC bought a new position in shares of Brookfield Asset Management in the 1st quarter valued at about $39,000. 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. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Brookfield Asset Management Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Brookfield Asset Management and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. increased its stake in shares of Realty Income Co. (NYSE:O Get Rating) by 2.2% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 134,099 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 2,917 shares during the quarter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc.s holdings in Realty Income were worth $8,510,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Panagora Asset Management Inc. raised its holdings in Realty Income by 33.7% during the first quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 25,505 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,767,000 after purchasing an additional 6,433 shares in the last quarter. Blair William & Co. IL grew its holdings in Realty Income by 1.9% during the first quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 18,695 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,296,000 after acquiring an additional 345 shares during the period. Prudential PLC acquired a new position in Realty Income during the first quarter worth $592,000. Baird Financial Group Inc. grew its holdings in Realty Income by 8.2% during the 1st quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 115,733 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $8,020,000 after buying an additional 8,803 shares during the last quarter. Finally, NewEdge Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Realty Income by 5.6% in the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 31,334 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,171,000 after acquiring an additional 1,671 shares during the last quarter. 80.56% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Realty Income alerts: Realty Income Price Performance O traded up $0.29 on Wednesday, reaching $59.21. The company had a trading volume of 989,267 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,459,497. Realty Income Co. has a one year low of $55.50 and a one year high of $75.11. The company has a market capitalization of $39.86 billion, a P/E ratio of 41.49, a PEG ratio of 2.91 and a beta of 0.80. The company has a fifty day moving average of $61.38 and a 200-day moving average of $63.59. The company has a current ratio of 1.85, a quick ratio of 1.85 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64. Realty Income Announces Dividend Wall Street Analyst Weigh In The company also recently disclosed a may 23 dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 15th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 1st will be issued a $0.255 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, May 31st. This represents a dividend yield of 5.1%. Realty Incomes dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 215.49%. Several equities analysts recently weighed in on the company. Scotiabank upgraded Realty Income from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating and set a $69.00 target price on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. Mizuho cut their price target on shares of Realty Income from $69.00 to $66.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, March 9th. StockNews.com started coverage on Realty Income in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a sell rating for the company. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price objective on Realty Income from $71.00 to $71.25 in a report on Thursday, May 4th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price objective on Realty Income from $68.00 to $70.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, February 23rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Realty Income has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $71.47. About Realty Income (Get Rating) Realty Income Corp. is a real estate company, which engages in generating dependable monthly cash dividends from a consistent and predictable level of cash flow from operations. The company was founded by William E. Clark, Jr. and Evelyn Joan Clark in 1969 and is headquartered in San Diego, CA. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding O? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Realty Income Co. (NYSE:O Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Realty Income Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Realty Income and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Physicians Realty Trust (NYSE:DOC Get Rating) have earned an average recommendation of Hold from the sixteen research firms that are presently covering the firm, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 1 year target price among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $17.07. DOC has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Credit Suisse Group reissued a neutral rating and set a $15.00 target price on shares of Physicians Realty Trust in a research note on Wednesday, March 29th. Barclays cut their target price on Physicians Realty Trust from $18.00 to $17.00 in a research note on Friday, May 5th. JMP Securities began coverage on Physicians Realty Trust in a research note on Friday, May 26th. They issued an outperform rating and a $15.50 price objective for the company. Royal Bank of Canada dropped their price objective on Physicians Realty Trust from $16.00 to $15.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, February 28th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company began coverage on Physicians Realty Trust in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. They issued an underweight rating and a $14.00 price objective for the company. Get Physicians Realty Trust alerts: Physicians Realty Trust Price Performance DOC stock opened at $13.60 on Wednesday. The business has a fifty day moving average of $14.30 and a two-hundred day moving average of $14.73. The company has a quick ratio of 1.47, a current ratio of 1.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58. The stock has a market cap of $3.24 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.90, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.41 and a beta of 0.83. Physicians Realty Trust has a 52-week low of $13.27 and a 52-week high of $18.70. Physicians Realty Trust Announces Dividend Institutional Inflows and Outflows The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, April 18th. Investors of record on Tuesday, April 4th were issued a $0.23 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, April 3rd. This represents a $0.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.77%. Physicians Realty Trusts dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 209.10%. Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. lifted its holdings in Physicians Realty Trust by 79.0% during the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 1,813 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 800 shares during the last quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. purchased a new stake in Physicians Realty Trust during the 1st quarter worth about $27,000. Benjamin Edwards Inc. lifted its holdings in Physicians Realty Trust by 144.0% during the 1st quarter. Benjamin Edwards Inc. now owns 2,623 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $39,000 after buying an additional 1,548 shares during the last quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC lifted its holdings in Physicians Realty Trust by 87.9% during the 3rd quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 3,072 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $46,000 after buying an additional 1,437 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Carderock Capital Management Inc. purchased a new stake in Physicians Realty Trust during the 1st quarter worth about $51,000. 91.28% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Physicians Realty Trust Company Profile (Get Rating) Physicians Realty Trust is a real estate investment trust, which engages in the acquisition, development, owning, and managing of healthcare properties. Its principal investments include medical office buildings, outpatient treatment facilities, acute and post-acute care hospitals, as well as other real estate integral to healthcare providers. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Physicians Realty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Physicians Realty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Causeway Capital Management LLC decreased its position in Canadian National Railway (NYSE:CNI Get Rating) (TSE:CNR) by 9.1% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 4,237,427 shares of the transportation companys stock after selling 422,025 shares during the period. Canadian National Railway makes up approximately 14.6% of Causeway Capital Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 2nd biggest position. Causeway Capital Management LLCs holdings in Canadian National Railway were worth $503,089,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of CNI. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Canadian National Railway by 3.8% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 21,762,307 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $2,350,111,000 after acquiring an additional 800,108 shares in the last quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec increased its stake in Canadian National Railway by 5.3% in the 1st quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec now owns 12,333,700 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $1,655,948,000 after buying an additional 625,000 shares during the period. National Bank of Canada FI increased its stake in Canadian National Railway by 180.5% in the 4th quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 5,977,754 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $709,550,000 after buying an additional 3,846,281 shares during the period. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. increased its stake in Canadian National Railway by 9.4% in the 3rd quarter. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. now owns 5,504,388 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $593,679,000 after buying an additional 470,804 shares during the period. Finally, Fiera Capital Corp increased its stake in shares of Canadian National Railway by 0.8% during the 4th quarter. Fiera Capital Corp now owns 5,132,783 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $610,168,000 after purchasing an additional 38,281 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 86.96% of the companys stock. Get Canadian National Railway alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth CNI has been the topic of several analyst reports. Credit Suisse Group increased their price target on shares of Canadian National Railway from $126.00 to $133.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 25th. Susquehanna increased their price target on shares of Canadian National Railway from $114.00 to $116.00 in a report on Tuesday, April 25th. National Bank Financial raised their price objective on shares of Canadian National Railway from C$175.00 to C$178.00 in a report on Monday, April 17th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on shares of Canadian National Railway from $115.00 to $125.00 in a report on Tuesday, April 25th. Finally, Barclays increased their target price on shares of Canadian National Railway from $126.00 to $130.00 in a research report on Tuesday, April 25th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Canadian National Railway has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $143.22. Canadian National Railway Stock Down 1.2 % Canadian National Railway Cuts Dividend Shares of NYSE:CNI traded down $1.41 on Wednesday, hitting $112.91. 370,377 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,121,817. The company has a quick ratio of 0.57, a current ratio of 0.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69. Canadian National Railway has a 52 week low of $103.79 and a 52 week high of $129.89. The company has a market cap of $74.89 billion, a PE ratio of 18.72, a PEG ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.91. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $118.52 and a 200-day simple moving average of $119.91. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 30th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 9th will be paid a $0.5835 dividend. This represents a $2.33 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.07%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, June 8th. Canadian National Railways payout ratio is 38.47%. Canadian National Railway Company Profile (Get Rating) Canadian National Railway Co engages in rail and related transportation business. Its services include rail, intermodal, trucking, supply chain services, business development and maps and network. Its offers their services in automotive, coal, fertilizer, food and beverages, forest products, dimensional loads, grain, metals and minerals and petroleum and chemicals industries. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CNI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Canadian National Railway (NYSE:CNI Get Rating) (TSE:CNR). Receive News & Ratings for Canadian National Railway Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian National Railway and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Centamin plc (LON:CEY Get Rating) announced a dividend on Thursday, March 16th, Upcoming.Co.Uk reports. Investors of record on Thursday, June 1st will be paid a dividend of $0.03 per share by the mining company on Friday, June 23rd. This represents a yield of 1.94%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, June 1st. The official announcement can be seen at this link. Centamin Trading Down 0.4 % LON:CEY opened at GBX 99.77 ($1.23) on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 2.78, a quick ratio of 2.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48. Centamin has a 1-year low of GBX 74.18 ($0.92) and a 1-year high of GBX 127.60 ($1.58). The firm has a market capitalization of 1.16 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 1,995.48, a PEG ratio of -1.53 and a beta of 0.53. The businesss 50-day moving average price is GBX 67.32 and its two-hundred day moving average price is GBX 63.42. Get Centamin alerts: Insider Transactions at Centamin In other news, insider Ross Jerrard bought 52,490 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 22nd. The shares were acquired at an average price of GBX 100 ($1.24) per share, with a total value of 52,490 ($64,866.53). In other news, insider Martin Horgan bought 99,314 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 17th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of GBX 101 ($1.25) per share, with a total value of 100,307.14 ($123,958.40). Also, insider Ross Jerrard purchased 52,490 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 22nd. The shares were purchased at an average cost of GBX 100 ($1.24) per share, for a total transaction of 52,490 ($64,866.53). 0.14% of the stock is owned by insiders. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades About Centamin Several equities analysts have recently weighed in on CEY shares. Berenberg Bank reiterated a buy rating and set a GBX 145 ($1.79) price objective on shares of Centamin in a report on Thursday, May 4th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price target on shares of Centamin from GBX 130 ($1.61) to GBX 135 ($1.67) and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, April 13th. (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. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Centamin Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Centamin and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cigna Investments Inc. New acquired a new position in Targa Resources Corp. (NYSE:TRGP Get Rating) during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 2,748 shares of the pipeline companys stock, valued at approximately $202,000. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the business. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its position in shares of Targa Resources by 424.5% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 3,777,797 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $285,110,000 after buying an additional 3,057,486 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp lifted its position in shares of Targa Resources by 14.4% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 7,836,957 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $591,455,000 after buying an additional 986,283 shares during the last quarter. Energy Income Partners LLC lifted its position in shares of Targa Resources by 260.6% during the 3rd quarter. Energy Income Partners LLC now owns 1,117,167 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $67,410,000 after buying an additional 807,355 shares during the last quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. lifted its position in shares of Targa Resources by 192.6% during the 3rd quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 1,063,563 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $64,175,000 after buying an additional 700,131 shares during the last quarter. Finally, First Trust Advisors LP lifted its holdings in Targa Resources by 195.5% during the 3rd quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 1,004,638 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $60,620,000 after purchasing an additional 664,704 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 88.29% of the companys stock. Get Targa Resources alerts: Targa Resources Price Performance NYSE TRGP traded down $0.83 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $67.66. The companys stock had a trading volume of 488,901 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,568,710. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.59, a current ratio of 0.66 and a quick ratio of 0.60. The stock has a market capitalization of $15.29 billion, a PE ratio of 17.51 and a beta of 2.28. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $72.49 and a 200 day moving average of $73.13. Targa Resources Corp. has a one year low of $55.56 and a one year high of $80.40. Targa Resources Increases Dividend Analysts Set New Price Targets The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, April 28th were given a dividend of $0.50 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, April 27th. This is a positive change from Targa Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.35. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.96%. Targa Resourcess dividend payout ratio is 51.81%. A number of analysts recently issued reports on the company. Capital One Financial reissued an overweight rating on shares of Targa Resources in a report on Thursday, April 20th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Targa Resources in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating on the stock. UBS Group increased their price objective on Targa Resources from $106.00 to $108.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, April 6th. Mizuho increased their price objective on Targa Resources from $95.00 to $99.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. Finally, Scotiabank assumed coverage on Targa Resources in a report on Thursday, March 2nd. They set an outperform rating and a $115.00 price objective on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, thirteen have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Targa Resources presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $100.27. Targa Resources Profile (Get Rating) Targa Resources Corp. provides midstream natural gas and natural gas liquids services. It also provides gathering, storing, and terminaling crude oil, and storing, terminaling, and selling refined petroleum products. It operates through the following business segments: Gathering and Processing, and Logistics and Transportation. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TRGP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Targa Resources Corp. (NYSE:TRGP Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Targa Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Targa Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Diversified LLC lifted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:USMV Get Rating) by 45.1% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 45,756 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 14,221 shares during the period. iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF makes up about 1.3% of Diversified LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 14th largest holding. Diversified LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF were worth $3,299,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Several other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 97.0% during the 3rd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 25,017,562 shares of the companys stock worth $1,653,661,000 after buying an additional 12,316,375 shares during the period. BlackRock Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 17.3% during the 3rd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 12,988,250 shares of the companys stock worth $858,523,000 after buying an additional 1,917,457 shares during the period. First Citizens Bank & Trust Co. boosted its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 11.0% in the 4th quarter. First Citizens Bank & Trust Co. now owns 5,460,644 shares of the companys stock valued at $393,713,000 after purchasing an additional 542,516 shares during the period. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV boosted its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 15.1% in the 4th quarter. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV now owns 4,249,193 shares of the companys stock valued at $306,367,000 after purchasing an additional 555,944 shares during the period. Finally, Captrust Financial Advisors boosted its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 844.3% in the 3rd quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 3,858,878 shares of the companys stock valued at $255,072,000 after purchasing an additional 3,450,227 shares during the period. Get iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF alerts: iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Trading Down 0.4 % BATS USMV traded down $0.27 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $71.50. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,049,499 shares. The firm has a market capitalization of $28.39 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.17 and a beta of 0.75. iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF has a 12 month low of $47.44 and a 12 month high of $55.45. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $72.83 and a 200 day moving average price of $72.62. iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Profile The iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (USMV) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Minimum Volatility (USD) index. The fund tracks an index of US-listed firms selected and weighted to create a low-volatility portfolio subject to various constraints. USMV was launched on Oct 18, 2011 and is managed by BlackRock. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding USMV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:USMV Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. HFR Wealth Management LLC decreased its stake in shares of Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc. (NYSE:TR Get Rating) by 3.4% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 331,999 shares of the companys stock after selling 11,722 shares during the period. Tootsie Roll Industries accounts for about 4.1% of HFR Wealth Management LLCs portfolio, making the stock its largest holding. HFR Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Tootsie Roll Industries were worth $14,133,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of TR. Quadrant Capital Group LLC increased its position in Tootsie Roll Industries by 32.1% during the 4th quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 980 shares of the companys stock worth $42,000 after purchasing an additional 238 shares in the last quarter. Legal & General Group Plc increased its position in Tootsie Roll Industries by 0.6% during the 2nd quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 52,520 shares of the companys stock worth $1,857,000 after purchasing an additional 298 shares in the last quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. increased its position in Tootsie Roll Industries by 3.0% during the 1st quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 11,369 shares of the companys stock worth $397,000 after purchasing an additional 331 shares in the last quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors increased its position in Tootsie Roll Industries by 86.2% during the 2nd quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 797 shares of the companys stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 369 shares in the last quarter. Finally, State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System increased its position in Tootsie Roll Industries by 1.6% during the 4th quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System now owns 24,286 shares of the companys stock worth $1,034,000 after purchasing an additional 380 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 17.06% of the companys stock. Get Tootsie Roll Industries alerts: Tootsie Roll Industries Price Performance Shares of TR stock traded up $0.17 on Wednesday, hitting $38.79. The stock had a trading volume of 37,797 shares, compared to its average volume of 128,868. The business has a 50 day moving average of $41.74 and a 200 day moving average of $43.34. The stock has a market cap of $2.73 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 35.44 and a beta of 0.13. Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc. has a 12-month low of $30.91 and a 12-month high of $46.11. Analyst Ratings Changes Tootsie Roll Industries ( NYSE:TR Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The company reported $0.19 earnings per share for the quarter. Tootsie Roll Industries had a net margin of 11.01% and a return on equity of 9.89%. The firm had revenue of $160.71 million during the quarter. A number of research firms recently issued reports on TR. TheStreet downgraded shares of Tootsie Roll Industries from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Monday, May 22nd. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Tootsie Roll Industries in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Tootsie Roll Industries Company Profile (Get Rating) Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc engages in the manufacture and sale of confectionery products. Its brands include Tootsie Roll, Tootsie Pop, Charms Blow Pop, Andes Mints, Sugar Daddy, Charleston Chew, Dubble Bubble, Razzles, Caramel Apple Pop, Junior Mints, Cellas Chocolate-Covered Cherries, and Nik-L-Nip. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc. (NYSE:TR Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Tootsie Roll Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tootsie Roll Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Macquarie Bank Limited (ASX:MBLPC Get Rating) announced a interim dividend on Monday, May 22nd, MarketIndexAU reports. Investors of record on Tuesday, June 20th will be paid a dividend of 1.802 per share on Tuesday, June 20th. This represents a dividend yield of 1.71%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, June 1st. This is a positive change from Macquarie Banks previous interim dividend of $1.67. Macquarie Bank Stock Performance About Macquarie Bank (Get Rating) 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. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Macquarie Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Macquarie Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mueller Industries, Inc. (NYSE:MLI Get Rating) announced a quarterly dividend on Friday, May 5th, RTT News reports. Investors of record on Friday, June 2nd will be given a dividend of 0.30 per share by the industrial products company on Friday, June 16th. This represents a $1.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.54%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 1st. Mueller Industries has increased its dividend by an average of 35.7% per year over the last three years and has increased its dividend every year for the last 3 years. Mueller Industries has a dividend payout ratio of 12.6% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Get Mueller Industries alerts: Mueller Industries Price Performance Shares of MLI stock opened at $77.82 on Wednesday. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $72.62 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $69.44. Mueller Industries has a 1 year low of $50.05 and a 1 year high of $80.10. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.44 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 6.53 and a beta of 1.09. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Insider Buying and Selling at Mueller Industries Separately, StockNews.com cut shares of Mueller Industries from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday. In other Mueller Industries news, CEO Gregory L. Christopher sold 507 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $75.00, for a total transaction of $38,025.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 603,671 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $45,275,325. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, CEO Gregory L. Christopher sold 23,991 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $76.05, for a total transaction of $1,824,515.55. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 70,787 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,383,351.35. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CEO Gregory L. Christopher sold 507 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $75.00, for a total transaction of $38,025.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 603,671 shares of the companys stock, valued at $45,275,325. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 43,798 shares of company stock valued at $3,364,598 in the last 90 days. 3.00% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. HighTower Advisors LLC grew its position in Mueller Industries by 18.7% in the first quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 4,400 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $239,000 after acquiring an additional 693 shares in the last quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. purchased a new position in Mueller Industries in the first quarter worth $235,000. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. purchased a new position in Mueller Industries in the first quarter worth $232,000. Cetera Investment Advisers purchased a new position in Mueller Industries in the first quarter worth $204,000. Finally, Williams Jones Wealth Management LLC. purchased a new position in Mueller Industries in the first quarter worth $203,000. 89.64% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Mueller Industries Company Profile (Get Rating) Mueller Industries, Inc engages in the manufacture of copper, brass, aluminum, and plastic products. It operates through the following segments: Piping Systems, Industrial Metals, and Climate. The Piping Systems segment consists of Domestic Piping Systems Group, Great Lakes Copper, Heatlink Group, European Operations, Trading Group, Jungwoo-Mueller, and Mueller Middle East. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Mueller Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mueller Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure Ltd. (TSE:TWM Get Rating) shares hit a new 52-week low during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as low as C$0.84 and last traded at C$0.86, with a volume of 230507 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.86. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research firms recently issued reports on TWM. CSFB reduced their price objective on Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure from C$1.50 to C$1.30 in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. Stifel Firstegy lowered Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, March 13th. Scotiabank reduced their price objective on Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure from C$1.50 to C$1.30 in a research report on Friday, March 10th. Canaccord Genuity Group reduced their price objective on Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure from C$1.50 to C$1.40 in a research report on Wednesday, March 29th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus lowered Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure from a buy rating to a hold rating and reduced their price objective for the company from C$1.80 to C$1.15 in a research report on Tuesday, March 14th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of C$1.35. Get Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure alerts: Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure Stock Up 1.2 % The stock has a market capitalization of C$369.66 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -5.38, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.64 and a beta of 1.64. The company has a quick ratio of 0.55, a current ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 94.08. The firm has a 50-day moving average of C$0.89 and a two-hundred day moving average of C$1.00. Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure Dividend Announcement Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure ( TSE:TWM Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, March 9th. The company reported C($0.01) earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of C$0.04 by C($0.05). The company had revenue of C$711.10 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of C$712.00 million. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure Ltd. will post 0.125523 earnings per share for the current year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 28th. Investors of record on Friday, March 31st were paid a dividend of $0.01 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 30th. This represents a $0.04 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.60%. Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructures payout ratio is -25.00%. About Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure (Get Rating) Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure Ltd., through its subsidiaries, operates as a diversified midstream and infrastructure company in North America. It primarily focuses on natural gas, natural gas liquids (NGLs), and crude oil operations and processing plants located in the Deep Basin, Edmonton, and Montney regions of Alberta and British Columbia. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tidewater Midstream and Infrastructure and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. LONDON - England - Thanks to the profligate spending of Joe Biden on useless socialist projects, the US debt ceiling is now a black hole. Its not so much a debt ceiling, in truth, they should call it the debt chasm a deep fucking trench that is so deep, no one or nothing ever emerges from its depths ever again. Such is the US debt that many around the globe simply do not understand how the USA is still functioning? Americas enemies are many, and they wait year after year to see the US economy implode because of all of that debt, but it never happens. Joe Biden just spent another trillion dollars with money the US does not have, if that makes sense. Dont know where the money goes, but somebody somewhere, the USA, owes them money? Were waiting on a dime here to see the USA crumble, its only going to be a matter of time now as Biden spends trillion after trillion on communist projects that aint worth a squirt of skunk piss or Bud Light, some guy at a bank said. Yesterday, Mr. Biden made an impromptu visit to a waffle house in Nashville, where he sat down and ate some waffles whilst mumbling incoherently. Debt ceiling, huh? Jibber jabber, Mancuso X-9. Sure, we just add on another 35 trillion dollars to the ceiling until it aint a ceiling anymore but a pit goddammit. Not now, not now Sharona I told you last week my eggs gotta be sunny side up or is that down or maybe sideways plus if I have a waffle it needs to stack up to the ceiling just like our debt, see. Cmon now, you cant deny me. Im Irish, by the way. Its all sorted then, the debt ceiling will add on another $35 trillion to the $35 trillion debt the USA owes already. No problem sorted. Butwaitwhat about the $650 billion unrealised losses by US banks, and lest we forget the unfunded US debt liabilities where the federal government actually owes somewhere between $100 trillion and $200 trillion? Oh, shit!!!! America is on borrowed time and dollars. Skip to main navigation Learn to Fish On This Page: Free Fishing Days Free fishing days offer residents and non-residents who are 16 and older* to fish without a freshwater fishing license or recreational marine fishing registration (*Kids under 16 can always fish for free!). 2023 Free Fishing Days Schedule February 18-19 (President's Day Weekend) (President's Day Weekend) June 24-25 September 23 (National Hunting and Fishing Day) (National Hunting and Fishing Day) November 11 (Veterans Day) These days offer the perfect opportunity to try out fishing for the first time, to get back into the sport, or to take a friend or the whole family along to fish! Even though a license is not needed, all other fishing regulations apply. Don't have fishing equipment? Borrow fishing gear for the day from one of the many providers statewide! Free Learn to Fish Clinics Participate in a Free Fishing Clinic Find a free fishing clinic to join near you and learn how to fish. These instructor-led sport fishing clinics are conducted by DEC and other organizations to help new anglers become familiar with getting started in this fun sport. Conduct or Co-host a Clinic Interested in running a free fishing clinic? Formal groups or organizations can apply to conduct a free fishing clinic event. I FISH NY Programs I FISH NY offers free programs such as the fishing rod loaner program, fishing education programs for in-schools and group organizations, and more. These programs help achieve our goal to increase fishing participation, introduce new anglers to the sport, and bring awareness to the outstanding fishing opportunities in New York State. Get more details about I FISH NY programs. Fishing Tips and Skills Find helpful information on fishing techniques, skills, and tips for your next fishing adventure, including the equipment and gear you'll need, specific methods to use for the species you're targeting, where to find and look for fish, tips on fishing with kids, and much more. Being a Responsible Angler Practicing catch and release, using baitfish responsibly, finding alternatives to lead fishing tackle, and cleaning your boat and gear are some of the many ways you can be a good steward and help ensure there will be great fishing for future generations to enjoy. Find out more about how you can be a responsible angler. (all links go to DEC's YouTube Channel) Getting Started Guides and Brochures To receive a copy by mail of any of the documents below, send an email to fwfish@dec.ny.gov -- include your name, address, and title of publication(s) you wish to receive. Regulations and Licenses Aside from fishing during free fishing days or at a free fishing clinic events, fishing licenses are required for most individuals who are 16 and older. Save time and buy your fishing license online or learn more about the fishing license requirements All recreational anglers must be familiar with the Freshwater Fishing Regulations or Saltwater Fishing Regulations prior to venturing out. More about Learn to Fish: Prof K Jayashankar with K. Chandrashekar Rao during Telangana stir K. Chandrashekar Rao, the founder of Telangana Rashtra Samithi, was undoubtedly the epicentre of the decade-old sustained agitation for a separate Telangana state, but a few others played a significant role, either directly or indirectly, in turning the dream into a reality. N. Vamsi Srinivas recollects their contributions: Prof. Jayashankar: The Telangana idealogue who envisioned it Fondly called "Jayashankar sir", the academician, who is highly respected across the spectrum, dreamt about statehood for Telangana all through his life and was among the first to realise the importance of educating people of the region to prepare them to struggle for statehood. Active in the first round of agitation in the 1960s as a student, Jayashankar continued his efforts, unmindful of their impact, to propagate the injustice meted out to Telangana. He wrote books and encouraged others to write on various issues concerning the region. He addressed countless meetings and widely toured the region for decades. An astute strategist, K. Chandrashekar Rao, the current Chief Minister of Telangana, played the right chords by portraying the Professor as his guru, as part of efforts to bring legitimacy to his political struggle, as well as the newly formed outfit Telangana Rashtra Samithi. Notwithstanding rumours of differences between the two during the course of agitation, Jayashankar fully backed Chandrashekar Rao, who, he believed, was a beacon of hope to translate the dream into reality. He died of cancer three years before Telangana was carved out. Prof. Kodandaram: Face of the political joint action committee A well-known figure in human rights activist circles, Prof. Kodandaram shot into prominence after the Chandrashekar Rao-orchestrated political Joint Action Committee chose him to head the agitation. Within days of the December 9, 2009 statement on initiating the process of formation of Telangana, then Congress-led UPA government diluted the same and constituted the Justice Srikrishna Committee to study and suggest various options. Chandrashekar Rao swung into action swiftly and roped in all mainstream political parties into the JAC and as part of the strategy, suggested the name of Kodandaram for the apolitical appeal. Earlier, he worked in the civil liberties movement and was actively coordinating students' and employees agitations for Telangana before the JAC came into existence. He parted ways with KCR post-bifurcation and differences got so widened that he floated his own political party and made a few unsuccessful attempts in electoral politics. E.S.L. Narasimhan: Took charge as incharge 1st citizen A retired police officer having vast experience in intelligence gathering, E.S.L. Narasimhan was chosen as incharge Governor of Andhra Pradesh sometime in December 2009, when incumbent N.D. Tiwari resigned following a sex scandal involving him made headlines. Within a month, he was made full-time Governor. He virtually took the reins of the state at a time when the politically weakest Chief Minister, K. Rosaiah, reduced governance to a nonchalant activity and Telangana agitation reached its peak. Officials who worked closely with him say that Narasimhan managed the law and order situation tactfully, yet firmly. While it is widely rumoured that he was in favour of bifurcation, his aides describe him as a student of the old school of thought that believes in following the orders in a hierarchy. He merely implemented the agenda of the Centre with his own plan of action, without letting the law and order get out of hand. Even after a change of guard at the Centre, Narasimhan continued to be the Governor of both states, apparently to ensure the smooth transition of division. Kalvakuntla Kavitha: Unifier of women of the region with Jagruti After K. Chandrashekar Rao, the most impactful leader from then Telangana Rashtra Samithi during the separate statehood agitation was his daughter Kavitha, thanks to the cultural integration she brought in through her organisation Jagruti. It is not an exaggeration to say that the traditional festival of flowers Bathukamma Panduga became so popular that every Telangana woman took pride in participating in the celebrations. It became an integral part of the agitation with protesters, at one stage, irrespective of gender, carrying Bathukamma as a symbol of revolt against oppression. Bathukamma Panduga became what Ganesh immersion was to the freedom struggle in Maharashtra. K. Rosaiah: Figurehead amid the political chaos A veteran in Telugu politics and number two in several Congress governments, Rosaiah got an unexpected opportunity to head the state following the sudden demise of incumbent Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy in a chopper crash in September 2009. The internal strife in Congress was at its peak, with YSRs son Jagan Mohan Reddy too staking claim for the top post and continuing to be a thorn for Rosaiah, who had no control over the administration, Cabinet or party legislators. Congress leaders from Telangana opposed to Jagan impressed upon the party's high command that stoking regional emotions would help weaken Jagan. On the other hand, T employees started a pen-down strike, opposing declaring Hyderabad a free zone and K. Chandrashekar Rao went on an indefinite strike and gave a call for a "Chalo Assembly" on December 10. It was a free-for-all and Rosaiah too turned nonchalant which came in handy for the T protagonists. It also made the Congress high command firm up its decision to divide the state and issue the famous December 9 midnight statement of initiating the process for division by then Union minister P. Chidambaram. Artistes Dhoom Dhaam with a bang If once-a-revolutionary-balladeer Gaddar's Podustunna poddu meeda nadustunna kalamaa became the virtual anthem stirring the soul of Telangana, lyricist Mittapalli Surender's Raati bommallona koluvaina shivuda, highlighting the sacrifice of lives by Telangana youth, had everyone in tears and Rasamai Balakishan's Telangana dhoom dham brought people to the streets. Leave aside politics, the song and dance, canonised as both the story and spirit of agitation, galvanised masses into action, aroused latent emotions, exhilarated, activated and energised all social groups. The opponents of bifurcation had to admit that the key factor for the lack of emotional bonding for the unified state slogan is the absence of cultural awakening among people from the Andhra and Rayalaseema regions. The domestic help, meanwhile, said, The guy who molested me is younger than my son. (Representational Image/ PTI) Hyderabad: Divya (name changed) was distraught to know that her domestic help, who collected a food order for her while working, was molested by the Swiggy delivery executive. She immediately raised a complaint with the food delivery app, but despite repeated escalations, Swiggy took no serious action against the perpetrator, she said. The incident took place a few weeks ago, said Divya, adding that on realising that the woman was alone and was a domestic help, he molested her and fled before she could raise the alarm. After the victim confided in Divya, she talked to their customer service, a bot, for several hours. Several follow-ups later, a human agent replied, asking Divya to continue the conversation over chat and ignoring pleas to get on a call. "They assured to call me back on the number I gave them but never did," said Divya. After failing to get a response from the app even 48 hours after raising the issue, the employer raised the issue for the second time. This time too, the app assured a response and action within another 48 hours, but did not. "It was then that we attempted to reach the management and the leadership of Swiggy by making use of clout that not many have access to. Then too, they asked for 48 hours and came up with the most indifferent response one could ever have to such an issue," Divya said. After waiting for several weeks and being denied proper justice, the domestic help lost hope and asked her employers to give up on the fight. "We had no choice but to trust and respect her discretion," Divya said. The domestic help, meanwhile, said, "The guy who molested me is younger than my son." When Deccan Chronicle reached Swiggy, it responded saying, "Customer safety is of utmost importance to us at Swiggy, and any complaint of misbehaviour will be dealt with stringent action. We have suspended the concerned delivery executive and are investigating the matter. We have reached out to the customer and will fully cooperate in taking this to the concerned authorities." However, the incident left many app users, especially women, shocked. They say that the bigger issue is not only the criminal conduct of the delivery agent, but Swiggy's failure to bring him to task. "Which analytics, algorithm or artificial intelligence can help/teach Swiggy to show basic concern to its customers? Was this case ignored just because it doesn't affect the market cap?" said Ruchi Sinha, who regularly uses the app. The Telangana High Court on Thursday allowed the anticipatory bail application filed by Kadapa MP YS Avinash Reddy in YS Vivekananda Reddy murder case. (Twitter) HYDERABAD: In a huge relief to Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy, who is in pursuit of legal remedies against being arrested by the CBI in connection with the Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case, the vacation court of the Telangana High Court on Wednesday granted anticipatory bail to him. Justice M. Laxman, who finally heard the arguments in the anticipatory bail petition of Reddy, which has been pending before the High Court since April, on Wednesday directed the CBI to release him, in the event of his arrest. However, the judge imposed several conditions. Avinash Reddy has been asked to execute personal bond for Rs 5 lakh with two sureties of similar amounts each and he shall not leave the country without CBIs prior permission till the investigation is completed. Avinash Reddy has to appear before the CBI police every Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm., all through June and appear as and when he is required for investigation. The court said that roving enquiry of evidence was unnecessary while considering an anticipatory bail application, but keeping in view of the importance of the incident and media debates, this court is forced to consider the necessary evidence to have prima facie reasons for the conclusion. The court pointed out the CBI discrepancies in investigation and insistence for the custodial interrogation of Avinash Reddy, without looking at other aspects. The court observed that the evidence that has been collected reflects that the scene of offence was tampered and important evidence was destroyed. The son-in-law of Vivekananda Reddy was also responsible for destroying some evidence by asking M.V. Krishna Reddy to keep a letter written by the deceased blaming driver Prasad at the scene. It did not agree with the contentions of CBI that Avinash was at the spot and his alleged role in destroying evidence with the help of maids in Vivekananda Reddys house. The order of the High Court stated "Different versions have been coming forward from the prosecution witnesses, but there is no direct evidence to show that Avinash Reddy has instructed to disturb the scene of offence". "The gravity of accusation against Avinash Reddy is not yet clearly brought on record by the CBI. The entire case rests upon hearsay evidence and assumptive evidence. This court does not find any justification for a custodial interrogation of Avinash Reddy by the CBI", the court noted. "The CBI also failed to go into the details of presence of a black Bolero at the house of one of the accused and presence of three persons with the accused just before the conspiracy was planned in his house on February 10, 2019, the court observed. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during an interaction with the Indian diaspora, in San Francisco, USA. (PTI Photo) San Francisco: Rahul Gandhi landed at San Francisco Airport early Tuesday morning, kicking off his six-day tour to meet and engage with the Indian diaspora in the U.S. Organized by the Indian Overseas Congress, this trip aims to mobilize the NRI population and rally their support for the party. Later in the evening, he addressed a gathering of about 1000 members in an event called Mohabbat Ki Dukan. The trip is an extension of the 4000 km Bharat Jodo Yatra that concluded in January earlier this year, said Shan Sankaran, one of the event organizers. " I just wanted to see what his vision is; tomorrow, if he leads the country, we want to see how he presents himself," said a long-term Congress party admirer, Sailaja Kalluri. Women Empowerment Telugu Association (WETA) members performed the traditional arti and welcomed Mr. Gandhi. A venue packed with Bay Area NRIs greeted and cheered Mr. Gandhi enthusiastically. Photo by Priyanka Suryaneni "On a weekday, in Bay Area, on short notice, in a span of nine days, we were able to pull this together with almost a thousand people, and that's a statement," said Sandeep Vangala, General Secretary, Indian Overseas Congress. The event began with the playing of the U.S. National Anthem and the singing of "Sare Jahan Se Acha" by children from the Kacchapi Swaradhara School of Music. Mr.Gandhi spoke about his walkathon, plans for the Congress party for the upcoming elections, and the threat to the "idea of India" under the BJP party. "All the instruments that we needed to do politics in India, they were controlled by the BJP and the RSS," said Mr. Gandhi in his opening remarks. "It had become quite difficult to act politically. And that's why we decided to walk from the southernmost tip of India to Srinagar," he said. The evening was briefly interrupted by Khalistani protestors, who were escorted out by the security personnel. Mr. Gandhi used the opportunity to underscore his message of tolerance and point out the contrast between the Congress and BJP parties. It's the right time that Rahul is visiting, talking about what he accomplished in India, and spreading the message of love for further global good," said Mr. Sankaran expressing his joy that Mr. Gandhi managed to travel despite his ordeals with getting a passport issued. "Rahul Gandhi spoke from his heart today," said Ahamed Shah, a Hyderabadi American, who resonated with Mr.Gandhi's message. We have been living for years in Silicon Valley and were concerned about the issues like lynching and hate in India, he added. Referring to the recent Karnataka election win, Zubair Ahmed, a Karnataka native, expressed hope and sees the victory as a reflection of people's wishes to live in harmony, unity, and peace. He hopes that Congress will come back to power at the national level. A significant number of the attendees showed interest in joining the Congress Party, according to Mr.Vangala. According to him, it's the fight for a secular and democratic India that united and brought various Indian organizations together. In the next few days, Mr.Gandhi will visit Washington D.C. and New York and continue his efforts to connect with NRIs on the East Coast Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao inaugurated the Brahmin Sadan. (Photo By Arrangement) HYDERABAD: Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao on Wednesday inaugurated the Brahmin Sadan, a facility for members of the community to perform marriages or other functions for free, in Gopanapally and announced a slew of sops for the community on the occasion. The building, spread over nine acres, comprises an auditorium, information centre and accommodation facilities for seers and religious heads visiting the state. It has been constructed at a cost of Rs 12 crore. At the event, the Chief Minister announced a hike in the monthly honorarium for Vedic priests from Rs 2,500 to Rs 5,000, reduced the eligibility age from 75 to 65 years, enhanced the Doopa Deepa Naivedhyam scheme grant for archaks from Rs 6,000 to Rs 10,000 per month for temple upkeep. The upkeep grant hike was also extended to 2,796 temples, taking the total of temples covered under it to 6,441, from the current 3,645. Chandrashekar Rao further announced that the Rs 2 lakh assistance currently being extended for operations and maintenance of Veda Patashalas, in phases, would now be released as an annual grant in one go. He also promised to extend the fee reimbursement scheme for Brahmin students pursuing education in prestigious institutes like IIMs and ITMs. In an interaction with the community members, Rao assured to resolve the issues of 'anuvamshika archakas (hereditary priests) in the next Cabinet meeting. Elaborating on the measures taken by the BRS government for the welfare and development of the Brahmin community in Telangana, the Chief Minister listed the establishment of the Brahmana Samkshema Parishad on February 1, 2017, as a key move. "Since then, Rs 100 crore was being allocated every year to parishad to implement welfare and development programmes for the Brahmin community in Telangana. Although the Brahmin community is considered a forward caste, there are several people in this community who are poor and struggling to make ends meet. We felt it's the responsibility of the state government to come to the rescue of poor people in Brahmin community and decided to set up the parishad for their upliftment," Rao noted. The Chief Minister said that the parishad extended financial assistance to 780 Brahmin students to pursue higher education abroad under the Vivekananda Overseas Study Scholarship scheme. The government extended financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh, depending on the course duration, he said. To encourage entrepreneurs among the poor in the Brahmin community to set up their units, the Chief Minister said that his government launched the Brahmin Empowerment scheme, under which a maximum grant of Rs 5 lakh was being extended, with the state government disbursing Rs 150 crore so far. Meanwhile, hereditary priests hailed the assurance given by Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao on resolving their long-pending issues in the next Cabinet meeting. Priests who were present on the occasion gave thunderous applause to the Chief Minister's announcement. C.S. Rangarajan, convenor of the Temples Protection Movement and chief priest at Chilkur Balaji Temple, who was also present at the event, said that this was a long-cherished dream of archaks in the state. "In AP, after bifurcation of state, the same was realised with the AP government issuing GO 439 for hereditary archaks. The archaks in AP were happy with the implementation GO 439. The same GO needs to be adopted in Telangana as the 30/87 Endowments Act is the same," he said. "Apprehensions and fears of archak families were dispelled with the CMs announcement. They can perform their duties without any fear of the future," Rangarajan said. The Endowments Act 30/87 was amended during the tenure of Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy in the united Andhra Pradesh in 2007. But successive governments ignored the implementation of the amended Act of 2007 which restored the hereditary status of archaks. Lord Tariq Ahmad is on a five-day visit to India. (Photo by arrangement) HYDERABAD: Astonishing the audience with his poetic phrases and fluency in them in Hyderabad on Tuesday was the UKs Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, UN and the Prime Ministers Special Representative on preventing sexual violence in conflict Lord Tariq Ahmad, who is on a five-day visit to the country. Lord Ahmad, sharing that his mother was born in Jodhpur of Rajasthan and his father in Gurdaspur of Punjab, recollected his roots during an interaction. "Grandparents left India in 1947, they worked hard, learnt the language and gave their children the education," he said. Answering a question on India, he said that the country has huge potential, and adding "Post-Covid, we are going through difficult time, we will recover soon" in answer to a query on financial recovery. His talk also found mention of Indian arts and crafts, and he also called Hyderabad a beautiful city. Earlier in the day, Lord Ahmad visited T-Hub and Skyroot. "We want more collaborations on electric cars and electric vehicles. There is one start-up which is working on an app for the aviation to guide the traveller on how much time is there for boarding, how much time he/she can spend for relaxing, which is unique," he said. He also said that eight UK Cabinet members will visit India for the G-20 Summit. Lord Ahmads visit focuses on science, technology and innovation, emphasising the UKs commitment to deepening partnerships in these areas across the globe, as evidenced by the recent announcement of a new Tech Envoy to the Indo-Pacific, a release stated. It further stated: "Strengthening the UK-India relationship is a key pillar of the UKs long-term foreign policy, as part of its enduring engagement in the Indo-Pacific set out in the Integrated Review. Union Home Minister Amit Shah with Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh during a meeting with the delegation of different Civil Society Organizations, in Imphal, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. (PTI Photo) GUWAHATI: Amid the growing demand for a separate administration for the tribals living in the hills of Manipur, Union home minister Amit Shah on Tuesday visited trouble-torn Churachandpur to meet the representative of the Kuki community who insisted on their demand for a separate administration circle for them in the state. Earlier in the day, he held a series of consultations with various stakeholders which started with a breakfast meeting with a group of women leaders and a separate meeting with prominent personalities as part of his efforts to bring lasting peace in the violence-hit state. This is the first time the home minister is visiting the northeastern state since the ethnic clashes began in Manipur on May 3. Mr Shah also held another meeting with a delegation of civil society outfits as part of his outreach and they expressed their commitment to peace and assured that they would work for restoring normalcy in Manipur. "Held a meeting with a group of women leaders (Meira Paibi) in Manipur. Reiterated the significance of the role of women in the society of Manipur. Together, we are committed to ensuring peace and prosperity in the state," he tweeted. Soon after landing in Imphal on Monday, Mr Shah held a meeting with Manipur chief minister N. Biren Singh, senior members of his Cabinet and key security officials. He also met governor Anusuiya Uikey. Senior IPS officer Rajiv Singh, now working as an inspector-general with the CRPF, has, meanwhile, been sent to Manipur and is likely to be appointed to a key post to handle the security situation in the state. He is a 1993 batch IPS officer of the Tripura cadre. The home ministry has directed the CRPF to relieve him immediately to enable him to take up his new assignment. Soon after the violence broke out in the state on May 3, the Union government appointed former CRPF DG Kuldiep Singh as a security adviser to the Manipur government. During the meeting chaired by the home minister with state and Central officials, it was it was decided that the priority of the administration should be to restore law and order and then carry out relief operations. Security sources said it was also decided to let the security forces take action to disarm groups that have armed themselves with state armoury guns. In an effort to restore peace in the state swiftly, Mr Shah is likely to hold an all-party meeting in Imphal on Wednesday or Thursday, the sources said, but this is yet to be confirmed by officials. In the meantime, the Union home minister also asked the state administration to work out ways with the Centres help to ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential items to Manipur. Sources said due to a blockade by various groups of Meiteis and Kukis on the national highways, the supply of food and fuel into the state, particularly Imphal, has been severely disrupted, and prices have gone through the roof. Mr Shah also decided to give a compensation of Rs 10 lakhs to the kin of the deceased with a 50-50 ratio of contribution from the state and the Centre. Sources also said a proposal to provide jobs to the kin of the deceased is also on the table. Mr Shah also met Imphal-based women vendors of the Ima market, who have also held protests during the turmoil in the state. Sources said Mr Shah is also due to meet some of the 10 dissenting MLAs from the Kuki community who have given a memorandum to the Centre demanding a "separate administration" at Churachandpur later on Tuesday evening. He is also likely to visit hospitals there to meet the injured in recent clashes between the two communities. It is significant at least 1,000 weapons and 10,000 rounds of ammunition have reportedly been "looted" from armouries in Imphal by some Meitei groups in the initial days of the violence. In fact, 1,000 more weapons were allegedly looted by these groups on May 27-28, security sources said. Earlier, some Kuki groups were also alleged to have looted weapons from police stations in Churachandpur. Security sources said that some weapons were given by Kuki militants belonging to Suspension of Operation (SoO) groups too. The administration has recovered only about 500 weapons so far. "With tension rising, the groups are not ready to surrender their weapons any more, and the administration does not want to use excessive force to retrieve them," the security sources in Imphal said, hoping that Mr Shahs visit and talks with both Kukis and Meiteis, may persuade them to return the weapons. Saying the situation in Manipur continues to remain tense amid the reports of sporadic violence, authoritative security sources in Imphal pointed out that it was challenging for the security forces to quell the violence as many in civilian areas are armed with weapons, mostly "looted" from armouries in Imphal. "In most cases, the arms have not been looted, rather handed over. People of a specific community in the administration want to help their brethren in this conflict situation," a senior officer in Imphal said. BJP Telangana state president Bandi Sanjay Kumar (Twitter) HYDERABAD: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president Bandi Sanjay Kumar has challenged AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi to contest from all the 119 Assembly constituencies in Telangana. Sanjay, speaking with reporters in Karimnagar on Wednesday, hit back at Owaisi for his public speeches over the past two days during which Owaisi targeted the BJP for claiming that the BRS governments steering was in AIMIM hands. "Owaisi called the BJP a snake and that as long as MIM is there, it will never allow the BJP to win. It is not enough to make brave statements from Darussalam. If he is so confident and Owaisi really wants to work for the Muslim community, then Owaisi should ensure that MIM will contest from all the Assembly seats in the state. The fact is, MIM does not want to come to power. Its only interest is increasing its wealth by supporting any party that is in power, and Owaisi is only interested in protecting his properties," he said. "Let Owaisi and his party contest from all the seats in Telangana and we, the BJP, will ensure that they will not even retain their deposits," Sanjay declared. People were rejecting the MIM party, he said, adding "it is a party that argued that terrorists must be given bail. It is a party that gives shelter to them." The BJP leader also said "MIM does not really care about Muslims. If it did, then the Old City of Hyderabad would have been developed and life would have been better for people in that part of the city. Why are Muslims not getting jobs? Why are many of them not getting passports? MIM leaders have to answer these questions too." Vipul, Joint Secretary, Gulf region. (Photo: Facebook) For nearly two months, the position of Indian ambassador in Doha has remained unoccupied, leaving a big void in the diplomatic representation of India in Qatar. After the previous ambassador Deepak Mittal returned to India and joined the Prime Ministers Office (PMO), the appointment of his successor has been eagerly awaited. While speculation points to Vipul, the joint secretary (gulf), as a likely replacement, no formal announcement has been made by the ministry of external affairs (MEA) yet. However, the absence of an Indian ambassador in Doha is not merely a bureaucratic matter. It has real and significant consequences for the individuals directly affected by it. Specifically, the families of eight naval veterans who have been held in solitary confinement in Doha since August last year are feeling an overwhelming sense of helplessness. The lack of an Indian ambassador has made it difficult for them to access information about the wellbeing and legal status of their loved ones. With charges already framed and the trial underway against these veterans under Qatari law, their families are increasingly anxious about their situation. Without a designated point of contact, they find themselves lacking a go-to person who can provide them with clarity and guidance regarding the path ahead. In this time of uncertainty, the MEA needs to recognise the urgency of the matter and promptly appoint a competent and capable ambassador to Doha. The presence of a dedicated ambassador will not only provide a channel of communication for the families of the detained veterans but also enable effective engagement with Qatari authorities to ensure fair treatment and due process for the accused individuals. Women dominate UPSC civil service exams A seismic shift is occurring within the realm of Indian bureaucracy. There is a change in the air. The recent UPSC Civil Services exam results have unveiled a groundbreaking development the top four positions have been claimed by women. Ishita Kishore secured the first rank, followed by Garima Lohia, Uma Harathi and Smriti Mishra. Among the top 25 successful candidates, 14 are women, marking the second consecutive year in which women have dominated the highest ranks. This transformative trend underscores the remarkable progress made by women in civil services, with their representation increasing significantly over time. The ascent of women has been an arduous journey. Women have overcome formidable challenges, from Anna George Malhotra, the first woman to join the IAS in 1951 to the current wave of trailblazing candidates. The remarkable statistics speak for themselves, as over one-third of the 933 recommended candidates this year are women, a substantial increase compared to the mere 20 per cent from two decades ago. By securing leadership positions in the civil services, these accomplished young women bring with them fresh perspectives, empathy and a nuanced understanding of the diverse challenges that governance entails. This surge in womens presence signifies a major shift in the traditionally male-dominated bureaucratic landscape. Their contributions will likely pave the way for a more inclusive and comprehensive governance framework. A boozy conundrum In a move that could spare police personnel of the Prohibition Enforcement Wing (PEW) of Tamil Nadu Police from unexpected dance-offs, the Director General of Police (DGP) C. Sylendra Babu has sent a memo to police personnel to resist the temptation of being deployed on any other duties. The directive has been communicated to all commissioners and superintendents of police across the state. The PEW officers have apparently been pulled in every other direction, assigned tasks that have absolutely nothing to do with their original purpose. Sources have informed DKB that PEW unit officers have been caught in bandobast duties and whatnot, and sometimes compelled to undertake additional work instead of trying to combat the sale of bootleg booze in Tamil Nadu. The DGP has come to their rescue and instructed the PEW department to focus on their real task and the real troublemakers, of which there are quite a few, we learn. It turns out that there have been some truly unfortunate incidents involving illicit liquor. Villupuram and Chengalpattu districts have experienced a series of tragedies, with 24 persons meeting their demise from consuming methanol-laced hooch. Most recently, there was a case in the Thanjavur district, where forensic analysis revealed that two deaths believed to be due to alcohol poisoning, were caused by the ingestion of alcohol laced with cyanide. In the spirit of sobriety and safety, it is hoped that the DGPs directive brings much-needed focus to the PEW officers towards their primary duty. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in San Francisco on Tuesday for a three-city US tour (DC/Priyanka Suryaneni)) San Francisco: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived here on Tuesday for a three-city US tour during which he will interact with the Indian diaspora and meet American lawmakers. He was received at the airport by Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda and other members of the IOC. Gandhi had to wait for two hours at the airport for the immigration clearance, party sources said. While he was waiting in the queue, several people who were travelling with him in the same flight clicked selfies with him. When people asked him why he was standing in the queue, Gandhi replied, "I am a common man. I like it. I am no longer an MP." Starting with San Francisco where he is scheduled to interact with students at the prestigious Stanford University, Gandhi will address a press conference and have meetings with lawmakers and think tanks in Washington DC. Image credit (Priyanka Suryaneni) The 52-year-old Congress leader is also likely to address Indian Americans and interact with Wall Street executives and university students during his week-long tour of the USA. He is slated to conclude his trip with a public gathering in New York on June 4. The interaction would take place at the Javits Center in New York. Last week, Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda said Gandhi's visit is aimed at promoting shared values and a vision of real democracy. "The purpose of his (Gandhi's) trip is to connect, interact and begin a new conversation with various individuals, institutions and media, including the Indian diaspora that is growing in numbers in the United States and abroad to promote the shared values and vision of the real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over, Pitroda said in a statement. Gandhi received a new ordinary passport on Sunday, two days after a Delhi court gave its clearance. The former Congress president, who had applied for an ordinary passport after surrendering the old diplomatic passport issued to him when he was a member of parliament, is set to travel to San Francisco in the United States on Monday evening on a three-city tour. Gandhi was disqualified as an MP in March following his conviction and two-year sentence by a Gujarat court in a defamation case over his Modi surname remark. Published on: May 31, 2023 | Updated on: May 31, 2023 Nepal's Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, in New Delhi, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. (PTI) New Delhi: Boosting India-Nepal cooperation in areas of energy, connectivity and trade is set to be the focus of talks on Thursday between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart Pushpakamal Dahal 'Prachanda'. 'Prachanda' arrived in Delhi on Wednesday afternoon on a four-day visit to India, his first bilateral trip abroad after assuming the top office in December 2022. Nepal is important for India in the context of its overall strategic interests in the region, and the leaders of the two countries have often noted the age-old "Roti Beti" relationship. Transforming the civilisational ties between India and Nepal with deeper cooperation in areas of connectivity, economy, energy and infrastructure is expected to be a focus area of talks between Modi and Prachanda on Thursday, people familiar with the matter said. One of the key priority areas would be to further deepen the power sector cooperation through new initiatives across the entire spectrum of cooperation, they said. The India-Nepal joint vision statement on power sector cooperation of April last year is considered a milestone and Nepal has been exporting over 450 MW of electricity to India. The two prime ministers are also likely to review the India-Nepal development partnership which forms the key pillar of the bilateral relations. Strengthening the financial connectivity between two countries would be a discussion point, said one of the people cited above. In April last year, RuPay card was launched in Nepal during the visit of the then Nepalese prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba to India. Prachanda was received at the airport in Delhi by Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi. Previously, he visited India in 2016 and in 2008 in his capacity as the Nepalese prime minister. "PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport.The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted. A high-level delegation is accompanying Prachanda. He and Prime Minister Modi will hold talks on Thursday following which both sides are expected to ink a number of agreements. The Nepalese prime minister is also scheduled to call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. Nepal is considered an important country for New Delhi as it shares a border of over 1850 km with five Indian states Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Land-locked Nepal relies heavily on India for the transportation of goods and services. Nepal's access to the sea is through India, and it imports a predominant proportion of its requirements from and through India. The India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950 forms the bedrock of the special relations between the two countries. On Friday morning, the Nepalese prime minister will travel to Indore and will leave for Kathmandu the next day. A group of Amazon workers upset about recent layoffs, a return-to-office mandate and the company's environmental impact is planning a walkout at the company's Seattle headquarters Wednesday. The lunchtime protest comes a week after Amazon's annual shareholder meeting and a month after a policy took effect requiring workers to return to the office three days per week. We respect our employees' rights to express their opinions, the company said in a statement. Also Read AWS to invest Rs 1.05 lakh crore in cloud services in India by 2030 As of Tuesday night, more than 1,800 employees had pledged to walk out around the world, with about 870 in Seattle, according to Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, a climate change advocacy group founded by Amazon workers. While some plan to gather at the Amazon Spheres a four-story structure in downtown Seattle that from the outside looks like three connected glass orbs others will participate remotely. Brad Glasser, an Amazon spokesperson, said there has been a good energy on the company's South Lake Union campus and at its other urban centers since more employees returned to the office. More than 20,000 workers, however, signed a petition urging Amazon to reconsider the return-to-office mandate. As it pertains to the specific topics this group of employees is raising, Glasser said in a statement, "we've explained our thinking in different forums over the past few months and will continue to do so. In a February memo, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy said the company made its decision to return corporate employees to the office at least three days a week after observing what worked during the pandemic. Among other things, he said senior leadership watched how staff performed and talked to leaders at other companies. He said they concluded employees tended to be more engaged in person and collaborate more easily. In a note asking Amazon employees to pledge their participation in the walkout, organizers said Amazon must return autonomy to its teams, who know their employees and customers best, to make the best decision on remote, in-person, or hybrid work, and to its employees to choose a team which enables them to work the way they work best. Some employees have also complained that Amazon has been slow to address its impact on climate change. Amazon, which relies on fossil fuels to power the planes, trucks and vans that ship packages all over the world, has an enormous carbon footprint. Amazon workers have been vocal in criticizing some of the company's practices. In an annual statement to investors, Amazon said it aims to deploy 100,000 electric delivery vehicles by 2030 and reach net-zero carbon by 2040. But walkout organizers contend the company must do more and commit to zero emissions by 2030. The walkout follows widespread cost-cutting at Amazon, where layoffs have affected workers in advertising, human resources, gaming, stores, devices and Amazon Web Services, the company's cloud computing division. The company has cut 27,000 jobs since November. Like other tech companies, including Facebook parent Meta and Google parent Alphabet, Amazon ramped up hiring during the pandemic to meet the demand from homebound Americans who were increasingly shopping online to keep themselves safe from the virus. Amazon's workforce, in warehouses and offices, doubled to more than 1.6 million people in about two years. But demand slowed as the worst of the pandemic eased. The company began pausing or canceling its warehouse expansion plans last year. Amid growing anxiety over the potential for a recession, Amazon in the past few months shut down a subsidiary that's been selling fabrics for nearly 30 years, shuttered Amazon Care, its hybrid virtual, in-home care service, and closed Amazon Smile, a philanthropic program. Microsoft on Tuesday accused Britain's anti-trust regulator of being a global "outlier" in blocking its $69 billion takeover of "Call of Duty" maker Activision Blizzard. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) vetoed the deal in April, saying it could hurt competition in the nascent cloud gaming market, sparking a furious row. The company's appeal against the decision is likely to be heard in late July, a judge at the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) indicated on Tuesday. Microsoft's lawyer Daniel Beard told the CAT: "If this process does not move forward quickly, it jeopardises this merger being completed." Microsoft argues the CMA was wrong to conclude the deal would lead to a substantial lessening of competition in the United Kingdom's cloud gaming market. Also Read | Microsoft chief says deep fakes are biggest AI concern He said that 10 regulators including the European Union's competition authority, which gave the deal the go-ahead earlier this month have already approved the merger. "The CMA is the outlier here in its position," Beard said. "It creates the uncertainty that risks derailing this deal and it is for that reason that speed is of the essence." He added: "It is only here that we have this uncertainty in terms of there being a decision which we say is fundamentally wrong and purports to stop this merger worldwide in relation to a tiny part of the gaming industry." Microsoft has also appealed the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's action seeking to block the deal on the grounds that, the agency said, it would suppress competition. Activision has applied to intervene in Microsoft's appeal against the CMA's decision, saying that the planned deal has a "drop dead" date of July 18. Its lawyer Anthony Grabiner said the CMA's conclusion that cloud gaming was a separate market from so-called native gaming, where gamers access games installed on their devices through a digital download or physical disc, was wrong. Cloud gaming is "nothing more than simply a delivery mechanism ... it is not a separate market", he said. "From a UK plc perspective, it is a terribly important case," Grabiner added A bipartisan deal to suspend the government debt ceiling and set federal funding limits advanced on Tuesday toward climactic House votes, even as hard-right Republicans revolted Tuesday over the deal between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Joe Biden, claiming that their party was squandering an opportunity to force fundamental spending changes. The legislation scaled its first major obstacle on Tuesday night, when the House Rules Committee voted to clear the way for a debate on the plan on Wednesday, after right-wing opponents failed to muster enough allies to block it. Also Read Why a US debt deal may only provide short-term relief Not one Republican should vote for this bill, Representative Chip Roy, R-Texas, an influential member of the ultraconservative House Freedom Caucus, said hours before the committee vote. Roy and Representative Ralph Norman of South Carolina, another ultraconservative member of the panel, broke with their party to oppose allowing the plan to be considered, but a third right-wing Republican on the committee, Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky, voted to move it to the floor despite some misgivings. Seven Republicans voted in favor of advancing the measure, while four Democrats joined two Republicans in opposition. Also Read Biden says debt deal 'very close' with default deadline now set at June 5 It was a boost to McCarthys effort to push through the agreement that he hammered out with Biden in days of difficult talks, and which must pass the House and clear the Senate by Monday to be enacted in time to avert a default. The compromise has drawn the ire of right-wing Republicans, leaving open the possibility that its passage could jeopardise McCarthys standing on Capitol Hill, where any one lawmaker has the power to call a snap vote to oust him thanks to a rule McCarthy agreed to while he was grasping for support from the far right to be elected speaker in January. Despite the outcry, McCarthy continued to express optimism that the legislation would pass, shrugging off the criticism and dismissing any concern for his own survival with a terse no during brief comments at the Capitol. Even after avoiding a blockade by his own party in the Rules Committee, McCarthy was still facing a steep challenge in rounding up the 218 votes needed to pass the plan on the floor. The bill will need a combination of Republican and Democratic votes to pass the House. It would then head to the Senate, where conservative Republicans are also unhappy with the framework and can at minimum slow its passage with procedural tactics. Nepal is seeking Indias help to ensure the economic viability of its two new international airports built by China. Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, a.k.a Prachanda, arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday for a four-day visit. This is his first foreign visit after taking over as the prime minister of Nepal in December 2022. He will have a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday. The Modi-Dahal meeting is likely to see Kathmandu prodding New Delhi to allow additional routes for aircraft to fly through the airspace of India too and from the new international airports in Nepal Pokhara International Airport and the Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa, a source told DH on Wednesday. Also Read | Nepalese PM Prachanda arrives in India on 4-day visit The issue has been on the agenda of discussion in the bilateral engagements between New Delhi and Kathmandu in the past too. India, however, has been treading cautiously on the request from Nepal, apparently due to security concerns. New Delhi has been concerned over Chinas persistent bid to spread its geopolitical influence over Nepal and build strategic assets in the country, not only elbowing out but also posing a security threat to India. The $ 76 million Gautam Buddha International Airport at Bhairahawa in Nepal was funded by the Asian Development Bank and the OPEC Fund for International Development but was constructed by the Northwest Civil Aviation Airport Construction Group of China. It was inaugurated in May 2022. The Export-Import Bank of China provided Nepal with a soft loan of $ 215 million to build the Pokhara International Airport, which was constructed by the communist countrys CAMC Engineering Company Limited and was inaugurated on January 1 this year. The two were envisaged as Nepals second and third international airports after the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. But neither the airport in Bhairahawa nor the one in Pokhara could take off. No carrier is at present operating any international flight to and from the two airports, which may soon prove to be economically unviable. One of the reasons for the reluctance of the carriers to operate international flights from the two airports is the lack of cross-border air routes between Nepal and India. Kathmandu is pressing New Delhi hard to rework the 2009 bilateral air services agreement to provide for more cross-border entry and exit routes between Nepal and India over Janakpur, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj and Mahendranagar. It has also sought New Delhis nod to make the existing L626 route over Mahendranagar bidirectional. India at present allows the use of the route only for international flights exiting Nepal. Another source aware of New Delhis discussion with Kathmandu on the issue told DH that India was not averse to allowing new cross-border air routes to and from Nepal, because it would not like the new airports in the neighbouring country to turn economically unviable and China to take advantage of such a scenario, as it had taken in case of the Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka. However, according to the source, New Delhi would decide on the issue only after further discussion, both internally within the Government of India as well as bilaterally with Kathmandu. The Allahabad high court on Wednesday rejected a petition filed by the Anjuman-e-Intezamia Committee, which looks after the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi, challenging the Varanasi court's ruling last year that the plea seeking permission for daily worship at the Shringar Gauri Shrine, allegedly situated inside the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi Mosque premises, was 'maintainable'. A single bench comprising justice J J Munir, in his ruling, said that the district court in Varanasi could continue to hear the plea filed by five Hindu women seeking daily worship at the Shringar Gauri shrine. In its petition, the Committee had contended that the Varanasi court had erred in rejecting its contention and also that the petition filed by five Hindu women seeking daily worship at the Shringar Gauri shrine was barred by the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act 1991. Read | Imam booked for stopping man with saffron kurta from entering UP mosque A Varanasi court had in October last year said that the petition seeking daily worship at the shrine was 'maintainable'. The district court had said that the petitioners had only sought the right to worship at the temple and not to convert the mosque into a temple. It said that the deities were being worshipped incessantly till 1993 and after that once in a year. The premises had been a bone of contention between the two communities for the past several decades but there was a renewed clamour to ''take back'' the Kashi Vishwanath Temple premises by the saffron outfits after the favourable decision of the apex court in the Ram Temple case. The Hindu petitioners contended that a part of the temple had been demolished by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century. The Muslim side contended that the Mosque existed before the reign of Aurangzeb and also claimed that the same had also been mentioned in the land records. India has sent out a message to China and Pakistan by choosing respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity as a central theme for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisations 22nd summit, which it has decided to hold virtually on July 4 next. New Delhi accuses both China and Pakistan of infringing on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India. The choice of themes for the SCO summit, however, also subtly signalled that while India had not joined the western countries in condemning Russia in the past 15 months, it had not endorsed the former Soviet Union nations military aggression against Ukraine. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the virtual summit of the SCO on July 4. Chinese President Xi Jinping, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Vladmir Putin are among the leaders, who are expected to join him through video-link. India took over the chairmanship of the SCO from Uzbekistan during the eight-nation blocs last summit at Samarkand in the Central Asian nation in September 2022. Also Read | A day after Jaishankar-Bilawal war of words in Goa, China stands by Pakistan on Kashmir The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday formally announced that the summit would be held in virtual format on July 4, with the theme being Towards a SECURE SCO. The SECURE acronym, coined by Modi at the 2018 SCO Summit, stands for Security; Economy and Trade; Connectivity; Unity; Respect for Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity; and Environment, the MEA stated in a press release issued in New Delhi. The Modi government was preparing to host the leaders of the SCO nations as well as the observer countries for an in-person summit in New Delhi. It was however difficult to ensure the physical attendance of Putin and Xi as they were also among the leaders expected to visit New Delhi for the G20 summit, which would be hosted by Modi in New Delhi on September 9 and 10. It was also difficult for Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to visit New Delhi for the SCO summit as he would seek re-election in polls scheduled to be held in early July. Sharifs visit to India for the SCO summit was also unlikely in view of the political turmoil in Pakistan. Besides, the visit of Pakistani Foreign Minister, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, for an SCO meeting convened by his counterpart in the Government of India, S Jaishankar, in Goa earlier this month turned into a war of words between the top diplomats of the two neighbouring nations on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and cross-border terrorism. New Delhi accuses Pakistan of illegally occupying parts of Indias territory in J&K. It also alleges that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor passes through the territory of India under the illegal occupation of Pakistan. Indias boundary dispute with China came under renewed focus after the Indian Army had to deploy additional troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) the de facto boundary between the two nations after the communist countrys Peoples Liberation Army made an aggressive move in April-May 2020 to push the line westward into the territory of India. The stand-off triggered by the Chinese PLAs aggressive moves and the Indian Armys bid to counter them could not be completely resolved so far, although both sides mutually agreed to withdraw front-line troops from some of the face-off points along the LAC. India, according to the sources, deliberately stressed on respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity in the agenda of the SCO summit as it wanted to convey a message to China and Pakistan. Apart from inviting the leaders of the SCO member nations China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan for the virtual summit, India also invited the presidents of the blocs observer countries, Iran, Mongolia and Belarus, but not Afghanistan, currently being ruled by the Taliban. Serdar Berdimuhamedow, President of Turkmenistan, has also been invited as the guest of the chair. The heads of the SCO Secretariat and the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure will also be present in the virtual summit. Russia and China floated the SCO between 1996 and 2001 as a strategic counterweight to NATO, led by Europe and the US. India and Pakistan formally joined the bloc in 2017. Condemning D K Shivakumars statement that Karnataka will build a reservoir in Mekedatu across River Cauvery, the DMK dispensation in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday reiterated its opposition to the project while wondering at the deputy chief ministers aggressive attitude towards neighbouring states within days of taking over. Water Resources Minister Durai Murugan, also the ruling DMKs General Secretary, issued a strong statement, taking on the Karnataka government, now ruled by ally Congress. He was responding to Shivakumars statement reported in newspapers that there was no going back on the Mekedatu reservoir project for which Rs 1,000 crore has been allotted. Tamil Nadu will oppose Karnatakas plans to construct a dam in Mekedatu across River Cauvery, Durai Murugan said and hoped that Shivakumar will wait patiently till he meets in person and explains the issue in detail. Read | Wont allow construction of Mekedatu by Karnataka, says Tamil Nadu Karnatakas decision to build a dam in Mekedatu ostensibly to meet the growing drinking water needs of Bengaluru before the Cauvery water enters Tamil Nadu has been a source of friction between the two states. While Karnataka says it is well within its rights to construct the dam, Tamil Nadu opposes the same saying the project cannot be implemented without the concurrence of the lower riparian state. In the statement, Durai Murugan said he was planning to meet Shivakumar in person to congratulate him and the Congress for the victory in the just-concluded Assembly elections in Karnataka but was forced to extend his wishes through a statement. I am surprised that Shivakumar, within days of assuming office, is adopting an aggressive attitude towards neighbouring states. I believe officers would not have given him a detailed briefing on the Mekedatu issue, Durai Murugan added. Read | Karnataka: With DKS at helm, irrigation department to prioritise Mekedatu project Mekedatu doesnt find mention in the judgements by the Cauvery Water Disputes Terminal (CWDT) and the Supreme Court, the minister said, adding that any unallowed construction will only affect Tamil Nadu. Hence, it is not welcome (Karnataka) saying they will construct a dam in an uncontrolled intermediate catchment area over which Tamil Nadu also has rights, the senior DMK leader said. Tamil Nadu also contends that the Karnataka Governments action was against the 2007 final order of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) and the 2018 Supreme Court verdict. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is conducting raids at about 25 locations in Karnataka, Kerala and Bihar in the Phulwari Sharif case linked to Popular Front of India. In Karnataka, the agency is conducting search operations in 16 places in Dakshina Kannada. According to police sources, the search operations are being carried out in Puttur, Bantwal and other areas in the district. The raids are part of a probe into the plot of the banned organisation to attack PM Modi on July 12, 2022 at a rally in Bihar, they said. The raid is based on inputs about funding from Gulf countries to Karnataka for helping radical organisations in terror-related activities. Sources said the search was conducted in the city as well as Bantwal, Uppinangady, Venur and Belthangady. The places raided included a few houses, shops and a hospital. D igital evidence regarding money transaction was being collected. The NIA had earlier conducted searches in the coastal district in March last to find out the sources of funding for terror-related activities, including the case in connection with the plot of the PFI to attack Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 12, 2022 at a rally in Bihar. (With inputs from PTI) Seven more cheetahs will be released into the wild of Kuno National Park in three phases beginning June as per the decisions taken by the steering committee on Project Cheetah on Wednesday. We agreed that seven more cheetahs will be released in three phases from around the third week of June. Each release will be separated by a timeline of two to three days, Rajesh Gopal, chairman of the Cheetah Project Steering Committee told DH. This will happen after a basic GIS based landscape fragmentation analysis to decide the vulnerability of settlements prone to human cheetah interface, he said. Also read | Explained: Survival and mortality rates in cheetah cubs These were among the key outcomes of the first meeting of the new 11-member steering committee formed last week. This is the third review of the cheetah introduction programme in the last five days after three cubs died on a single day due to a heatwave-like condition. Other two meetings were chaired by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan and Union Environment and Forest Minister Bhupender Yadav. The land-fragmentation analysis will be conducted at Kuno and Sheopur districts, and will involve experts from Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun. As per the release plan, one male and one female will be released first, following which a second male that was released earlier but strayed outside Kuno and had to be darted, will be set free once again. The remaining four will be released in batches of two males and two females. Earlier, officials had informed the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister that six cheetahs were released in the wild of Kuno National Park. India imported 20 cheetahs from South Africa and Namibia in an ambitious programme to introduce African cheetahs nearly seven decades after Asiatic cheetahs went extinct. Three of the 20 have died. A decision on the import of the second batch of cheetahs will be taken after analysing how the current lot fares. During the field visit, members of the steering team saw two female cheetahs and a kill they had made and eaten. The experts also debated on better assessment of Kuno National Parks carrying capacity (environment ministry suggests the park can house 21 animals) and how to implement conservation measures with support from local communities. Last week, the officials informed Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan that a second site at Gandhisagar National Park could be readied by November while work had begun on Nauradehi wildlife sanctuary for housing the felines at a later date. Yadav on Tuesday said officials involved in the cheetah revival plan will be sent on study tours to Namibia and South Africa from where the felines have been brought to Kuno. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh represented India at the swearing-in of newly-elected President Bola Ahmed Tunubu of Africas most populous country Nigeria. Significantly, he was accompanied by heads of defence public sector undertakings, implying that the major thrust of the visit was defence exports as part of the countrys Make in India initiative. Recently, India courted Egypt with military exercises, a visit of the Indian Army Chief, and had its President over as the Republic Day Chief Guest. Rightly, it is expanding its scope of engagement with the West African behemoth, Nigeria, with this very first visit of an Indian Defence Minister to that country. It is of a piece with Indias foreign policy thrust of late to enhance ties with Africa, a continent with a future rooted in its wealth of strategic minerals, a youthful demographic profile, and expanding continental integration. India-Africa summits are evidence. Read | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh interacts with Indian diaspora in Nigeria After the Cold War, Indias expanding economy has led to a focused engagement with Africa, with India-Africa summits peppering its outreach. This is in recognition of Africa being consequential to Indias aspirations as a global power, best exemplified by its emphasis on multilateralism. African middle powers in themselves and a fully integrated Africa are potential poles in the desired world order. Mindful of its advantages, India is putting its best foot forward in projecting the defence sector. It has an India-Africa Defence Dialogue in place, the second edition of which was on the side-lines of the Defence Expo in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, in 2022. Defence exports reaching Rs 16,000 crore owe in part to African militaries opting for Indian technology and armaments that are affordable and, being technologically middle range, are user friendly. Figuring in choices abroad enables India to meet its ambitions to be 'atmanirbhar by expanding investment into defence manufacturing, and research and development. Economies of scale result from an export market opening up could potentially entice the profit-oriented private sector into this field. Military engagements take forward Indias training engagements with African countries, ranging from Lesotho to Uganda. At the Africa-India training exercise at the foreign training node at Aundh in March, 25 African nations participated in conduct of humanitarian operations under the United Nations (UN) flag. Even so, the perspectives of India and Africa on an aspect of peace and security need to be reconciled. While Africa is prescient in drawing a link between Climate Change and conflict, India wants that the peace and security agenda of the UN Security Council is not unduly expanded for addressing this. Since Africa stands for African solution to African problems, India could up its support from peacekeeping to also include the ambit of peace-making and peace-building. The three together form the three sides of the peace triangle, implying that a holistic Indian contribution requires India to lend a hand in propping up the two sides other than peacekeeping. Peace-making will require Indian special envoys to bolster regional and UN initiatives. For peace-building presence India must apportion more monies for the periodic global demands for voluntary contributions of the UN agencies, funds, and programmes. It could even set up an international aid agency of its own. Its strengths in security sector reform, flowing from its apolitical military, can prove attractive for Africa plagued by military coups. As defence minister, Singh cannot but be tuned in to the new scramble for Africa between the United States, China, and Russia, even as the presence of the United Kingdom and France dissipates. This should suggest to him that as an emergent great power, India cannot but also have a strategic approach to Africa. Given that its major strategic competitor, China, is fairly ahead in light of its deeper pockets, India needs appraising Africa in relation to Chinas global scheme which sees Africa at one extractive end of its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China now has a military base in Africa, at Djibouti, even as it prepares two access routes to African trade via Gwadar and through Myanmar. It now also has the largest navy. This is anticipatory pre-emption of Indias prospective closure of the Malacca Straits and intended war-time domination of the Indian Ocean. Preparation for the worst case has a deterrent purpose. This strategic context to Indias African outreach must inform Indias military diplomacy. Finally, India has been a beacon in Africa so far mostly for its progressive socio-political and economic developmental model. Indias 'Vishwaguru aspiration should feed into its current-day politics that otherwise unwittingly undercut its soft power. Its G20 leadership opportunity must be used optimally as voice of the global south to gain African favour. (Ali Ahmed is a freelance strategic analyst. Twitter: @aliahd66.) Disclaimer: The views expressed above are the author's own. They do not necessarily reflect the views of DH. Congress lawmaker Priyank Kharge will reprise his role as Karnatakas IT/BT minister thanks to a minor reallocation of portfolios that was given effect to on Wednesday. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has divested himself of the IT/BT portfolio. Now, Priyank is the minister for Rural Development & Panchayat Raj (RDPR) and IT/BT. Also Read | Karnataka: Congress govt not in any hurry to scrap NEP In another change, Siddaramaiah has given the infrastructure development portfolio to Industries Minister MB Patil. Initially, Patil was given the IT/BT portfolio along with Industries. In a subsequent revision, IT/BT went to Priyank. Apparently, Patil opposed this saying he is keen to take up IT/BT, forcing Siddaramaiah to keep the portfolio with himself. Also Read | Karnataka govt to decide on guarantee fulfilment on June 2 Son of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Priyank made a name for himself as the IT/BT minister in the first Siddaramaiah-led Congress government. Joining the government in 2016 aged 38, Priyank was instrumental in pursuing Apple iPhone contract manufacturer Wistron to set up a plant near Bengaluru. He also popularised hackathons and startup challenges during his earlier tenure. Anhui actively integrates into the development of the Yangtze River Delta integration, proactively and fully integrating into the key areas and key links, implementing and utilizing various policies, promoting the common development of industries and the sharing of public service resources. Every Wednesday, experts in hematology from Anhui and Shanghai conduct remote consultations at the Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, providing the best medical solutions for some difficult and complex cases. Patient family member Shi Jinli said, "Remote consultations are convenient for us, and we can enjoy the same treatment as Shanghai's large hospitals at our doorstep." The Shanghai expert team also regularly conducts on-site consultations. Xu Qiong, a doctor in the Child Health Department of the Children's Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, comes to Anhui once a month to mainly provide outpatient services for children with developmental disorders. Xu Qiong, Chief Physician of the Child Health Department of the Children's Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, said, "Through the strategy of Yangtze River Delta integration, we can provide high-quality medical services to these patients in Anhui, and hope to promote teamwork to a certain extent." By transferring brands, technology, and management standards, Hefei actively introduces high-quality public service resources from the Yangtze River Delta. In the medical field alone, it has jointly built three national regional medical centers for children, trauma, and traditional Chinese medicine with Shanghai. Currently, the national children's regional medical center jointly built with the Children's Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University has entered the trial operation stage. Chen Chao, dean of the Anhui Hospital of Fudan University Children's Hospital (Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital), said, "Our Yangtze River Delta integration national (children's) regional medical center has 1,000 beds, and the department is set up to be comparable to Fudan University Children's Hospital. In this way, the medical environment for children in Anhui Province has greatly improved." In order to promote common prosperity and development, Anhui always places industrial integration in a prominent position, and does a good job in deepening the integration of the industrial chain. In the Bengbu Economic Development Zone, SINOMAGS from Ningbo is currently producing at full capacity. As the largest domestic manufacturer of current sensors, with the continuous deepening of the Yangtze River Delta integration strategy, the company has moved its headquarters from Ningbo to Bengbu. Lei Xiaoyu, deputy general manager of Bengbu SINOMAGS said, "We have been able to develop rapidly with the help of this opportunity. From site selection to project approval, from policy subsidies to later support services, we have received strong support." Currently, Bengbu City is relying on the China Sensor Valley to build the Ningbo-Bengbu Microelectronics Industrial Park, focusing on building the entire industrial chain of smart sensors and attracting more companies to settle in. Gu Dagong, manager of the technical department of Ningbo NATA Opto-electronic Material said, "Through the cooperation between Ningbo and Bengbu, we are further improving our company's industrial layout in Anhui. Anhui's current business environment is very good, and we are full of confidence in future development." Yin Xianli, director of the Economic Development Bureau of the Ningbo-Bengbu Industrial Cooperation Park, said, "We will fully promote and serve the projects introduced, solve the problems encountered in project construction, and improve the carrying capacity of the park." Adhering to the two key words of integration and high quality, various regions of Anhui are sticking to Shanghai's lead, joining hands with the leaders of Jiangsu and Zhejiang, and promoting various integration work. Edited and translated by Zheng Chen Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. A listed building in Belfast has been burnt out after a fire which forced the closure of roads in the city centre. Firefighters were called to the blaze at a derelict building in North Street in the early hours of Wednesday. The operation to douse the flames included six fire engines, two aerial appliances and 40 firefighters. Smoke continued to rise from the building on Wednesday afternoon as firefighters attended to the remnants of the fire. The building at 166-174 North Street is a B2-listed site with an estimated construction date of 1899, making it a Victorian-era build, according to the Ulster Architectural Society. The site, neighbouring the CastleCourt shopping centre, close to the Cathedral Quarter, was once used as an art school as well as for offices, warehouse and shops, but had become derelict. Several buildings in Belfast city centre have been hit by fires in recent years. In April a blaze at the sight of a former nightclub in the Mays Meadow area was treated as a deliberate ignition by the PSNI. The listed Old Cathedral Building in the Cathedral Quarter less than half a mile from the fire at North Street was gutted by fire in October 2022. A number buildings in the North Street area are listed for their architectural importance. Ani Kanakaki-Ainsworth, head of marketing and communications at the Linen Hall, the oldest library in Belfast, said the loss of a Victorian-era building was very, very sad. Landmarks of our city, they are connected with the histories, with the people. People will remember them since they were young children, walking about to see all these landmarks gone, its devastating, she said. The Linen Hall, which was founded in 1788, remains open to the public. Ms Kanakaki-Ainsworth said the number of fires in historical buildings in Belfast is a concern. Its a big, big concern. In our organisation were lucky enough we didnt have an incident (of a fire) in many, many, many years, she said. But it doesnt make it any less sad or any less worrying for everybody else. A large portion of the city centre was cordoned off as a result of the fire on Wednesday, including North Street, Millfield, Union Street, Royal Avenue, Gresham Street and Winetavern Street. On Wednesday evening, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) group commander Gerry Clifton confirmed the fire was over. The cause of the fire remains under investigation and we will continue to work with the Police Service of Northern Ireland and our other partner agencies during the course of the investigation. NIFRS received the initial call at 2.40am this morning, he said. At the height of the incident there were 40 firefighters and eight officers involved in the firefighting operation. Six Fire Appliances from Central, Whitla, Springfield, Westland & Cadogan, a Command Support Unit from Lisburn & two Aerial Appliances from Springfield and Knock attended the incident. Our Firefighters worked tirelessly throughout the duration of the incident to ensure that the fire was brought under control and prevented the spread to nearby premises in Belfast City Centre. We would like to thank the public for their patience whilst we dealt with the incident. The rumours of Pixel Watch 2's announcement with Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro was confirmed earlier this month. Now a report by 9to5Google has given some clarity as to what we can expect from the watch and how it is going to be different from its predecessor. Let's have a look at everything the Pixel Watch 2 has to offer. Also Read: Google Pixel Watch 2 may arrive in different sizes: 3 things we know about it Stress sensor in Pixel Watch 2 We have gathered from the report that the Pixel Watch 2 can feature the same sensors as the Fitbit 2s health sensors. The continuous electrodermal activity (cEDA) sensor which tracks the days stress and helps manage it and the skin temperature sensor are some of the major features that are expected to feature in the Pixel Watch 2. Chip upgrade in the Pixel Watch 2 From the report we come to know that the Pixel Watch 2 will be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset from the latest W5 generation. We arent really sure about what changes or customisations the chipset would bring in for the new Google wearable. Google has always used the Samsung Exynos for its watches, so the sudden shift came as a shock. It was expected that for Pixel Watch 2, Google will be relying on 5nm W920 which has been used in the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and 5. Also read: Pixel Fold, Pixel 8 Pro renders reveal major design details of the two Google phones The change in chipset of the wearable can also lead to change in the chipset of future Pixel phones. But, it's too early to speculate anything as of now and we should wait to experience the changes once the watch is out. Battery changes in Pixel Watch 2 Google is aiming towards a better battery life for the Pixel watch 2. As mentioned in the report, they are looking forward to over a days usage while the AOD is enabled. But apart from that, people can also look forward to a better life by making some changes in the settings and taking precautions for power conservation. Expected price of Pixel Watch 2 From everything we can gather online, the Pixel Watch 2 should be priced around the 30,000 price mark, might get priced a bit cheaper as well if Google wants to undercut the competition from Apple and Samsung in a big way. These are the expected major upgrades that are likely to feature on the Google Pixel Watch 2 and as previous rumours have stated, this would be launched alongside the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro later this year. Europe's 6G-IA and Taiwan's TAICS ink MoU on future 6G, bridging the gap between research, standards and industry The Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MoEA) and the European Union (EU) DG CONNECT co-hosted the "2023 EU-Taiwan 6G SNS Joint Workshop" at the Taipei International Convention Center (TICC) today. The purpose of the workshop is to share the vision for 6G and advanced research and development. Furthermore, Europe's 6G Smart Networks and Services Industry Association (6G-IA) and the Taiwan Association of Information and Communication Standards (TAICS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to exchange information and establish a cooperative partnership in the field of future 6G communication systems and networks. In the future, there will be a strengthened collaboration between Taiwan and the EU in 6G technological research and development. Dr. Chyou-Huey Chiou, the Director General of DoIT, MoEA, indicated that 6G is expected to be commercially available in 2030, and it has become a key focus for many countries such as the US, Europe, Japan, and Korea. Starting from this year, the Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT) has been supporting the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) and the Institute for Information Industry (III) in their research and development of advanced 6G technologies. The EU is leading in global 6G technology, and Taiwan and the EU already have a solid foundation and trust in 5G collaboration. This year both parties will focus on jointly discussing future industry development and collaboration directions for 6G. This will enable Taiwan to establish our own independent technological capabilities and stay ahead in 6G industry development opportunities. Taiwan's semiconductor and information and communications industries possess a strong technological foundation, while the EU holds a global leadership position in innovation. With highly complementary industries, this collaboration is expected to create a win-win situation for both parties, allowing us to seize huge business opportunities in the 6G market. Ms. Aleksandra Kozlowska, Section Head of the European Economic and Trade Office (EETO), stated that this is the first EU-Taiwan Innovation Week event after the lifting of pandemic restrictions. 6G is one of the key topics, and building upon the cooperative achievements of the EU and Taiwan in 5G development, we will continue to explore the bilateral opportunities for 6G development and cooperation. The aim is to deepen industry collaboration and strengthen the global supply chain capabilities of 6G. Dr. Colin Willcock, Chairman of SNS-JU and 6G-IA, in his remarks mentioned that they will invest 250 million in the first phase of the SNS-JU 6G research program under Horizon Europe. This funding will support 35 projects exploring the advantages of 6G and developing innovative technologies in key areas such as media, industrial IoT, energy, construction, automotive, smart healthcare, culture, agriculture, and education. Dr. Willcock is delighted to be invited to Taiwan by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MoEA) and establish a partnership with TAICS. The collaboration will focus on 6G, aiming to accelerate the development of the 6G ecosystem. He believes that by working together, the ICT industry on both sides can expand their influence and position in the global supply chain, creating mutual benefits. Dr. Jyuo-Min Shyu, Chairman of TAICS (Taiwan Association of Information and Communication Standards), acknowledged that in the coming years, 6G technology will become the mainstream trend in the global ICT industry. With its higher spectrum efficiency and stronger IoT capabilities, 6G technology brings tremendous business opportunities to the global digital economy. In preparation for the arrival of the 6G era, TAICS actively participates in global standardization and technological research, contributing to the development of the global ICT industry. Currently, Taiwan-EU cooperation at the working level for 6G has been actively initiated, but it requires strategic dialogue between high-level government officials to ensure effective progress. TAICS appreciates the support from the Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT), MoEA for promoting international collaborative research and facilitating the signing of the collaboration agreement between TAICS and 6G-IA. We look forward to working closely together with international partners to jointly promote the development and application of 6G technology. The event attracted over 130 participants from more than 20 countries, both online and on-site. This included domestic companies that have shown active interest in 6G, such as Chunghwa Telecom, Pegatron, Compal, Auden, LITEON, Askey, Alpha, Keysight, YTTEK, Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), Institute for Information Industry (III), National Taiwan University, National Taipei University, and others. They attended the event to witness and engage in the workshop. After signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 6G-IA, TAICS will lead the industry, academia, research institutes, and EU counterparts in a series of collaborative business arrangements. Both parties will discuss future 6G cooperation projects through mutual visits and jointly organize events such as seminars on 6G technology development and application. This will assist Taiwan's industries in early positioning within the international 6G ecosystem and mark a significant milestone in Taiwan's 6G development. 6G-IA and TAICS signed a MoU to start 6G collaboration on research and standards under the witness of EETO and MOEA, Taiwan. Photo: Department of Industrial Technology, Ministry of Economic Affairs MOEA, Taiwan and DG CONNECT, European Commission jointly organized the "2023 EU-Taiwan 6G SNS Joint Workshop" on May 30th to explore future 6G cooperation between Taiwan and the European Union. Photo: Department of Industrial Technology, Ministry of Economic Affairs Musk meets Chinese officials to deepen Tesla's China ties Tesla CEO Elon Musk visited China on May 30. He is expected to meet with several Chinese officials and check on the company's Shanghai plant. At a meeting with China's foreign minister, Musk said Tesla opposes decoupling from China and will keep expanding in the country. It was Musk's first China visit after three years of pandemic restrictions. According to a statement from the country's foreign affairs ministry, minister Qin Gang met with Musk in Beijing on Tuesday. Qin said the new energy vehicle industry has great potential in China. The country will dedicate itself to building a better business environment for Tesla and other international enterprises. The minister added that a healthy, stable, and constructive relationship between China and the US will benefit the two countries as well as the world. The ministry's statement cited Musk saying the interests of the US and China are intertwined as the two countries are like conjoined twins. He also said Tesla opposes decoupling from China and is willing to expand its businesses in the country. News reports said Musk will likely meet China's premier Li Qiang to discuss the adoption of Tesla's automated-driving technology in China. The two had met during Musk's last visit to Shanghai. Li was the Communist Party secretary of Shanghai at that time. Tesla has gained a significant presence in China, its biggest market outside the US. Tesla's gigafactory in Shanghai, which opened in 2019, took up more than 50% of the EV company's global production in 2022. The facility, which Musk is expected to visit, can make as many as 1.1 million cars a year now. According to Bloomberg, Tesla is about to begin trial production for revamped Model 3 in Shanghai. In April, the company announced to build a plant for its Megapack energy storage systems in the same area. Reuters cited sources saying Musk will also likely meet Zeng Yuqun, battery giant CATL's chairman. CATL is one of Tesla's key suppliers. A landmark programme of counselling and mental health supports will be piloted at several Irish primary schools, the Minister of Education has confirmed. Minister Norma Foley today (May 31) announced the establishment of the programme - which will run from September 2023 - at primary schools in counties Cavan, Laois, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Monaghan, and Tipperary. According to the Department of Education, the counties were selected following an analysis of counsellor availability locally and liaison with regional NEPS teams. The new programme is designed to recognise the impact of COVID-19 on primary school-aged children and mitigate the mental health challenges experienced in schools. Speaking about the news, Minister Foley said, "Wellbeing is at the very heart of all that we do in the education system. Developing and promoting wellbeing is essential to allowing children to learn and grow to the very best of their abilities. This new pilot project aims to support, enhance and nurture wellbeing in our primary schools with two new support models. "I am pleased to announce the beginning of this pilot programme to provide significant counselling and mental health supports to children in primary school." A total of 5million from Budget 2023 has been secured for the implementation of the programme for the 2023/2024 school year. She said, "This will complement ongoing work and resources to support childrens mental health and wellbeing being provided in schools by the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST), the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) and, in post-primary schools, guidance counsellors; as well as the wider mental health supports available to children and young people through the health services. "The delivery of this pilot programme will aim to ensure that children with mental health needs are provided with accessible and responsive services, to allow them to reach their educational potential and experience improved wellbeing. "My Department will work closely with the Department of Health and the HSE throughout the pilot and both Departments will continue to explore ways to improve supports for young people, including around increased awareness, promoting help-seeking behaviour and sign-posting to the wide range of available services." Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion, Josepha Madigan TD, also commented and said, "There is no doubt that the impact of COVID-19 on our childrens mental health is still being felt. "This pilot will provide for an allocation of one-to-one counselling sessions for primary schools, with children with special educational needs also benefitting from the programme in the seven counties." One-to-one counselling sessions via access to a Department of Education-approved counsellor will be available, and schools will have access to up to eight counselling sessions for each individual child being supported under the first strand of the pilot. Parents and relevant school staff will be guided and encouraged to support the child at home and at school, with all schools receiving further information during the next week. A second strand to the pilot will be announced in the coming weeks. Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) Science Department says it was "absolutely delighted" to take part in a recent filming for RTE's Nationwide in Blackrock village. The Nationwide team were on location filming a special segment focusing on Tidy Towns in the village and DkIT was involved as their H2O Heroes initiative with primary school children contributes to Blackrock's Tidy Towns agenda. The DkIT piece that was recently filmed was with children from the local primary school, St Oliver Plunketts N.S. who are one of the Institutes pilot schools for Samuel Perpetuo Rodrigues PhD project which started in September 2022 and is co-supervised by Dr Caroline Gilleran Stephens, Dr Suzanne Linnane and Dr David Getty (Emeritus). Dr Suzanne Linnane, DkIT said: We are absolutely delighted to be able to contribute to Blackrocks Tidy Town agenda with the children from Blackrock Schools. "Children are the future and as such our H2O Heroes initiative aims to equip them with skill sets to allow them to protect and manage their water resources into the future. Both Caroline and I are passionate about water, the outdoor and kids. "Ten years ago, we started H2O Heroes to empower children and help them engage in science. We are so delighted to be able to impart our knowledge and love about water with the children from the area. The H2O Heroes initiative is an action orientated education package designed for 3rd and 4th class primary school children which is aimed at introducing and exploring key components of the science behind our water resources. The goal of the Institutes H2O Heroes programme is to inspire, inform and engage and this enables children to become real life H2O Heroes and ambassadors for the protection of our most valuable resource, water (H2O), as well as recognise the value of science in their everyday lives. Dr Suzanne Linnane & Dr Caroline Gilleran Stephens who were supported on the day by Dr Siobhan McCarthy, say they would like to thank the class from St Olivers School and their Deputy-principal Conor Clune. The Nationwide episode will air on 16 June. Raul Kovacs from sixth class in St Pauls Senior National School in Drogheda has won a nationwide poster competition to raise awareness of carbon monoxide and the dangers that it can pose in our homes. Earlier this year, Gas Networks Ireland, in partnership with Junior Achievement Ireland (JAI), called for entries to its carbon monoxide safety poster competition. Students who completed the Energize Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) educational programme were eligible to enter. The competition received numerous entries from all over Ireland, but it was Rauls poster which was deemed the winner. Raul Kovacss poster outlined the importance of having a carbon monoxide alarm in your house. Speaking as he presented St Pauls Senior National School with an iPad for use in their school classroom, Gas Networks Irelands Sustainability Environmental Manager, Ronan Walsh said: "Science, technology, engineering, and math play a pivotal role within our operation. We understand the significance of art in fostering innovation and creativity within our industry. We are always inspired to witness the imaginative entries that arise from this educational programme." The Energize programme delivers science to primary school students around Ireland through practical and engaging lessons to cultivate interest in the subject so students continue with it to second level education. Carbon monoxide awareness is an important element of the programme. This year marks 13 years of partnership between Junior Achievement and Gas Networks Ireland and the Energize programme has recently been updated to include a module on Sustainability, which introduces students to the topics of renewable energy, biodiversity, and social responsibility. St Pauls Senior National School sixth class teacher, Barry Murphy, said: "My class thoroughly enjoyed the Energize programme which brought science to life through fun and interactive sessions reflecting the curriculum. The programme enables pupils to understand career possibilities in STEAM areas and encourages them to continue with science in second-level education. "We are delighted that Raul won this award. All our sixth-class pupils engaged in the poster competition and grasped the important safety messages related to carbon monoxide with wonderful creativity. Thanks to JAI and Gas Networks Ireland; who helped deliver the programme. To have Energize delivered in your school, please contact JAI at info@jai.ie. Mark's Pharmacy in Ardee has earned top honours at the 11th Irish Pharmacy Awards, often called the "Oscars of Irish Pharmacy, taking home the coveted titles of "Pharmacy of the Year" and "Pharmacy Team of the Year." This achievement makes the Pharmacy the only establishment in Ireland to receive this dual recognition. Mark says these awards underscore Mark's Pharmacy's unwavering dedication to customer service and their significant contribution to the local community. Reacting to the win, owner and Superintendent Pharmacist Mark McPhillips said: "These awards embody the trust that our community has in us. We view our customers as an extended family, and this recognition validates our commitment to them." Expressing gratitude, McPhillips added: "We appreciate the opportunity to serve our community. These awards represent a collective achievement, reflecting both our team's hard work and our customers' loyalty." He also gave special recognition to Tara McKenna for her invaluable contribution in establishing Mark's Pharmacy as a respected and award-winning healthcare destination. To experience the award-winning services of Mark's Pharmacy, visit www.ardeepharmacy.ie or call 0416856955. After 16 years awarding third level student scholarships, the Naughton Foundation Scholarship scheme is once again reminding students from County Louth that the 2023 closing date is fast approaching and inviting all applicants to submit their entries. The Naughton Scholarships are a scheme of scholarships to promote the study of engineering, science and technology at third level by students in Ireland. Each year from February to May, Leaving Certificate students can apply for a scholarship if they intend on studying science, computer science, mathematics, engineering or technology at third level that year. The closing date for receipt of application forms for The Naughton Foundation Scholarship 2023 is Friday, 30th June 2023 at midnight. There will be one guaranteed scholarship for each of the participating counties, 36 allocated in total. The Naughton Foundation was established by Dr Martin and Carmel Naughton in 1994 and its goal is to support worthwhile causes in the arts and education. In 2008 they decided to create the scholarship programme to increase their support for Leaving Certificate students who would like to study engineering, mathematics, science, computer science and technology at third level in Ireland. Originally the scholarship programme only applied to students from counties Louth, Meath and Monaghan however it has since expanded nationwide and students from all Counties in the Republic of Ireland are eligible to apply. Students are invited to apply if they are currently attending secondary schools in County Louth, and if they are studying two or more of the following subjects- physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, mathematics, and applied mathematics. Each Naughton Scholarship is valued at 20,000 so it is a contribution of 5,000 for each year of the students third-level course for a student studying science, engineering, maths or technology in any publicly funded university or third-level institution in Ireland, including Northern Ireland. The school of each winner is also awarded 1,000. Applications must be submitted before, or on this date to be considered eligible for the scholarship, this deadline will not be extended. The 2023 application forms for The Naughton Foundation Scholarship Programme are available for download and can be completed online on The Naughton Foundation website: www.thenaughtonfoundation.com The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 30th June 2023. News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism. Family members, loved ones and members of the community came together at Neptunes Park in Virginia Beach, Va. on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 to remember the 12 people who lost their lives when a gunman opened fire in a municipal building on Friday, May 31, 2019. The family members and friends of the victims use the phrase we fly together as a way to stay strong and remember their loved ones and doves were released to represent each life lost. EBRD 56 million investment in Eldorado Gold Corporation to develop Skouries gold-copper mine Long-term investment to promote the responsible mining of copper, a critical metal in the green transition Eldorado to increase the share of women in its workforce and promote youth and womens employment The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) aims to foster a sustainable and inclusive mining sector in Greece with an equity investment of 56 million in Eldorado Gold Corporation. The strategic investment will support the development of the Skouries copper and gold mine in Greece, which is operated by Hellas Gold SA, Eldorados wholly owned subsidiary. Eldorado is a Canada-based mining company with a diversified portfolio of operations and assets in Turkiye, Canada and Greece. Skouries is expected to be Eldorados key growth driver, with a mine life of more than 20 years. Based on its extensive expertise in promoting higher environmental standards in the mining sector, the EBRD will also support responsible mining in Eldorados operations in Greece. The project will promote human capital development in the mining sector in Greece by developing national occupational standards for digital skills and by scaling up market-relevant, work-based training programmes for young people and long-tenured workers. The company will also work to increase the share of women in its workforce and foster womens access to skills and employment opportunities in the mining sector. In addition, the Skouries mine will use dry stack tailings, a technology used by Eldorado in Turkiye and Greece. This is one of the most sustainable ways to safely store leftover materials from the processing of mined ore (tailings), as it eliminates the risk of dam failure, has a lower footprint, reduces water consumption and maximises the recovery of process water for reuse. Copper is crucial to many applications in todays economy, including battery-powered vehicles, electronics, power generation (particularly from renewable energy sources), transmission and storage, and the telecommunications industry. The copper market is changing considerably with the global shift to electric vehicles and renewable energy applications, as both of these sectors require large volumes of copper. The EBRD started operating in Greece on a temporary basis in 2015 to support its economic recovery. To date, the Bank has invested over 6.6 billion in more than 102 projects in the countrys corporate, financial, energy and infrastructure sectors. Local representatives have reacted sharply to reports that An Post might be considering the closure or consolidation of two separate Cork sorting offices. In a statement to The Echo on Tuesday, An Post said that while no decision had been taken, it confirmed that it is considering the movement of staff from its Midleton sorting office to Little Island and/or the possible development of facilities at Macroom to incorporate Macroom and Ballincolling delivery offices. An Post is due to begin a nationwide review of its postal network as part of a wider transformation programme agreed with the Communication Workers Union (CWU), which represents some 8,500 of An Posts 9,000 employees. Under the agreement, which will see the consolidation of a limited number of mail delivery offices, postmen and postwomen will receive pay increases of 5%, clerical staff will receive increases of 3%, while managerial grades will benefit from an improved performance pay structure. Staff will also receive a 750 tax-free voucher. The pay increases follow a 5% pay increase last year and a 10.4% pensions increase for An Post staff and pensioners, the final elements of which pension increases are awaiting Government approval. The transformation programme agreed between An Post and the CWU is due to begin early in June and is expected to be fully implemented by the end of 2024. In a statement to The Echo, An Post said it had reached agreement with the An Post group of unions on a programme of further transformation for the company, and it said acceleration of that programme was critical for the sustainability and long term future of our business and the customers we serve every day. The company said a key feature of that programme would be new target operating models across the company including its mails and parcels network. An Post said it would be looking at new ways of improving its services, including handling more parcels as home shopping and ecommerce become the norm, building a sustainable future and considering our impact on the environment and improving working facilities for our staff. This will involve some changes in our network over time. The company said the initial process of looking at the delivery offices and their delivery routes would begin next month. In some cases, the transformation agreement will involve the consolidation or merger of existing mail offices. Among the possible changes being considered are: staff from Midleton delivery office being based at the Cork Delivery Campus at Little island; and: possible development of facilities at Macroom to incorporate Macroom and Ballincolling delivery offices," An Post added. 'BONKERS SCENARIO' Sinn Fein TD for East Cork, Pat Buckley, described the suggested moves as an absolutely bonkers scenario. Under these plans, youll have no parcel office from Little Island down as far as Dungarvan, so if this goes ahead, Ballycotton, Cloyne, Killeagh, Castlemartyr, Lisgoold, Leamlara, Midleton, Carrigtwohill, nearly half of the East Cork electoral area, will have no parcel office, Mr Buckley said. This does not serve the people of Cork East very well. Only a year and a half ago An Post installed 30 changing points in Ballinacurra and I suspect they didnt come cheap. Clearly there was very little discussion with employees and the unions locally from what I have been told. Local services should remain local and I am calling on Minister Eamon Ryan to engage with An Post and the local employees and union to reverse this decision, he said. In Ballincollig, former Lord Mayor of Cork city, councillor Colm Kelleher said it was very alarming to hear the news that Ballincollig and Midleton had been identified as two possible targets for closure or consolidation. Here in Ballincollig, we have on average, on any given day, 19 postmen and postwomen servicing their own duty rosters around Ballincollig, and these are local jobs, people who are locally based in the village, and under whats being spoken about there are talks that they would have to relocate to Macroom and all post to Ballincollig would be routed out of Macroom via Little Island, the Fianna Fail councillor said. Its counterproductive, in my opinion, in that at least 26 locally based jobs in the sorting office itself, and the 19 postpeople on duty on any given day, are all locally based, and they would now be expected to drive from Ballincollig to Macroom, collect Ballincolligs post, and drive back to Ballincollig, deliver the post, drive back to Macroom, and then drive back to their homeplace in Ballincollig. Councillor Kelleher said Ballincolligs sorting office was at the heart of the village and he called on An Post to reconsider the proposal. I am standing fully behind Ballincolligs An Post workers, and I am saying that as part of an expanded city, it makes no sense to move Ballincolligs sorting office out to the heart of the county, Cllr Kelleher said. CORK city firefighters will make a decision on whether to escalate industrial action efforts based on a proposal being delivered by Cork City Council this afternoon. Siptu members employed as firefighters in Cork city have been picketing for over 40 days in response to the closure of Ballincollig Fire Station, which some fear is endangering public safety. Ballincollig Fire Station has been closed since 2021, and staffing levels remain a grave concern for both firefighters and the public. A Cork City Fire Brigade source said they are expecting a proposal from Cork City Council this afternoon which will determine the course of their dispute. They said Siptu members hope a meaningful proposal can be drawn up. Nonetheless, they stressed firefighters are prepared to escalate industrial action efforts if it is deemed unsatisfactory. Siptu members will meet today to decide on what action to take. Pickets are currently in place before shifts in Anglesea St and Ballyvolane Fire Station. They primarily affect administrative duties but members are willing to escalate if necessary. Basically Cork City Council wouldnt give us a proposal outside of the WRC (Workplace Relations Commission) and they wouldnt go into the WRC while we were still taking industrial action, the source said. Our position was that we wouldnt stop industrial action until they gave us this proposal. If the proposal we receive... is a meaningful one we will roll straight into conciliation. If it isnt a meaningful proposal we are out. The source said they are still unsure of what form further industrial action will take if required. We should know by this afternoon whether they want to escalate this or put it to bed. Given the massive public support and the resolution in the council chamber in the last council meeting I thought that would be it. However, they are obviously not going to put their hands up and say we were wrong and we shouldnt have done it. I would have expected something before now. When you are faced with a crisis you have to look at where its going to end and get to that as soon as possible. If city council had said that they had tried but were unsuccessful in getting retained crew and looked at plan b then this would have gone away. Siptu members are hopeful for a positive outcome. Im hoping that some good will come out of this and we can put this to bed once and for all. If it doesnt people are going to want us to escalate this. However, what format this will take is still unknown. The way has now been cleared for the ambitious redevelopment of Cork citys South Docks after appeals against two planning applications have been withdrawn. In December 2021, OCallaghan Properties (OCP), through Leeside Quays Ltd, lodged a planning application with Cork City Council seeking 10-year planning permission for a mixed-use development comprising four new buildings and the conversion of the long-idle Odlums building as well as a separate planning application with the council seeking 10-year planning permission for a proposed rehabilitation hospital, all within the citys South Docklands. Cork City Council granted conditional planning permission for both developments, but appeals were subsequently lodged with An Bord Pleanala (ABP). A spokesperson for OCP told The Echo today that the appeals have been withdrawn, clearing the way for the redevelopment to begin. The site works will commence in Q4 on Kennedy Quay. All things going well its hoped that construction will begin in the middle of 2024. It is likely that the development will commence with apartment construction, the spokesperson said. OCP is delighted that the way is now clear for the roll-out of this very significant project for the Docklands and for the city. First-party appeals had been lodged by Leeside Quays Limited against conditions attached to Cork City Councils approval of both developments. Both conditions relate to the maximum parking permitted by the council. However, these appeals by Leeside Quays Limited have been withdrawn to allow the developments to proceed. Third-party appeals had also been lodged with ABP in respect of both developments. These appeals were lodged by Southern Milling Limited but have now also been withdrawn. Developments The planning application lodged in December 2021 for the mixed-use development sought permission to demolish the R&H Hall silos and to construct four buildings in which office space, cafes, convenience retail and 80 apartments would be developed in blocks ranging from nine to 12 storeys over a double basement. The applicants also sought permission for a range of conservation works including part demolition, alterations, extension and change of use of the Odlums building to provide the likes of office space, food and beverage space, a cinema including a bar/dining area and 84 apartments. The creation of amenity areas for residents and visitors and a public realm plan also formed part of the application. Cork City Council sought further information before deciding on the application which resulted in some changes. One request was that the developers would consider retaining a portion of the R&H Hall silos. Responding, OCP said that a review concluded that there would be significant financial and safety implications associated with retaining a portion of R&H Hall if its retention is possible at all. However, architects Henry J Lyons on behalf of the applicants, have said that the existing building offers a number of cues from which a sensitive response can be formed that pays tribute to the industrial and maritime heritage of the area. Meanwhile, the proposed rehabilitation hospital is set to be operated by ORPEA Group, a French multinational healthcare company. Speaking about further ambitions, the spokesperson for OCP said the company intends to lodge a further application for more residential development elsewhere in the South Docks. Within the next few weeks, OCallaghan Properties are submitting a separate planning application for 1,325 apartments on the Goulding site [near Kennedy Quay], they said. That planning permission is dependent on Gouldings getting planning permission to move that operation to the former IFI [Irish Fertiliser Industries] site in Marino Point. That is under appeal at the moment. A heinous crime saw a young man calling to the home of a 79-year-old woman and duping her into paying out 600 for work on her roof that was not done. Detective Garda David Hickey investigated the case which resulted in 21-year-old Brian OSullivan of 3 Ballycurreen, Airport Road, Cork, being charged with a count of dishonestly, by deception, inducing the woman to hand over 600 in cash for repairs with the intention of making a gain for himself. Brian OSullivan pleaded guilty to that charge at Cork District Court. Sergeant Pat Lyons handed in a victim impact statement from the 79-year-old to Judge Colm Roberts, who commented: It is very serious, its a most heinous crime. Sgt Lyons said: He called to her home at The Rise in Bishopstown on September 20, 2022 and said he was doing work in the area and he offered to repair tiles which appeared broken on her roof. He took videos and photos and it was initially 400 for the work. Then it became 600 for additional works. She paid the 600 but she became slightly suspicious and took down the registration number of his van. Little or no work was done. Scenes of crime officers took photos of the work. On October 1 last the defendant was stopped at Sarsfield Road and he was questioned. He admitted giving her the figure of 600. He said he was just a handyman and not a roofer. Sgt Lyons confirmed that the accused paid back the 600 in full through his solicitor, Eddie Burke, to the gardai for the victim. Mr Burke said the accused now knew how serious the offence was. There was no question of intimidation or anything of the sort. He did a certain amount of work but did not return and finish up matters. He never came to garda attention for any matter before this he has no convictions, and he has certainly not revisited the place, Mr Burke said. Judge Roberts said he was taking into consideration the absence of any previous conviction, the fact that he repaid the money in full and the fact that he is only 21 years old. The judge put him on a probation bond for one year. THE garda file is complete and is about to be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions in the case against a Cork man accused of taking part in an attack on a Spanish student who was walking home through the city. Sergeant John Kelleher said the file was complete and was being reviewed by a garda inspector before being sent to the DPP. Defence solicitor, Shane Collins-Daly, said the accused has been remanded in custody for the past two months, adding: Time is ticking, and he is in custody. Judge Colm Roberts said: Yes, time is definitely ticking, and he is innocent before the law and deserved to have this dealt with without delay. Detective Garda Padraig Harrington said at an earlier hearing: It is alleged that Aaron Breen and three others were present at Bandon Rd, Cork, at 4am on Saturday, March 25. A Spanish student making his way home was subjected to an unprovoked attack. It is alleged that Aaron Breen punched him and knocked him to the ground. In total he punched him five times and kicked him in the head five times when he was on the ground. Fortunately, the injured party was able to get away. He was later taken to Cork University Hospital. Thankfully, his injuries are not as serious as they could have been. The alleged incident occurred on Bandon Rd outside Lennoxs chipper. The injured party was walking home. He had no interaction whatsoever with the group of people. Aaron Breen, aged 23, of Greenwood Estate, Togher, Cork, is charged with assault causing harm to the Spanish student on Bandon Rd on Saturday, March 25, 2023. Judge Roberts remanded him in further custody until June 14. A BLARNEY man who assaulted two gardai travelled to Spain to get away from associates in Cork and get off alcohol and drugs and now he has been ordered to complete an anger management or victim empathy course. Christopher Ruby, aged 30, of Golden Heights, Knocknasuff, Blarney, Co Cork, was given a 10-week suspended sentence by Judge Colm Roberts at Cork District Court. Defence solicitor, Joseph Cuddigan, said of Ruby: He went to Spain to get away from associates who were dragging him back. And he got off alcohol and drugs. The judge said: I want him to do some form of anger management or victim empathy course. Sergeant John Kelleher said, on May 27, 2020, at The Groves, Blarney, Co Cork, he was drunk and a danger to himself or others. At the time of the incident, he threatened gardai that he would shoot any garda who entered the driveway of his home. Gardai went to investigate another incident shortly before 10pm on August 17, 2020. The accused was agitated and intoxicated. He repeatedly slapped Garda Maurice OMahonys arm. Garda OMahony tried to maintain a safe distance but Ruby kept encroaching. Garda David Ahern also suffered slaps to his arms. Ruby had to be pepper-sprayed and arrested to be taken to Gurranabraher Garda Station. On April 24, in Blarney village, he was threatening to Garda Michael Walsh during a drunken incident. Ruby told Garda Walsh: Fuck off and stop annoying me Ill go where I want and ye wont stop me. Try and take me on and Ill break you. Gordon Deegan South Dublin County Council has given the green light to plans for a 402 unit apartment scheme for Taylor's Lane, Ballyboden in south Dublin. The planning authority has granted planning permission to Shannon Homes Dublin UC for the Large Scale Residential Development (LRD) scheme comprising three blocks rising to five storeys despite the opposition of local residents. The planning permission for the LRD plan follows the High Court in January 2022 quashing an An Bord Pleanala planning permission for a Shannon Homes UC Strategic Housing Development (SHD) scheme for 486 apartments at the same site. This followed a court challenge by the Ballyboden Tidy Towns Group and the Tidy Towns Group lodged an objection against the new application. Underlining the scale of the scheme, the Council has attached a condition requiring the developer to pay 4.19 million in planning contributions towards public infrastructure to the Council. It is one of 29 conditions attached to the permission and the Council granted planning permission after a 180 page planning report by McGill Planning lodged with the LRD scheme stated that the building design of the LRD has been altered to take into account comments by Council planners while the building height has also been reduced which in turn reduces the density while the number of car spaces has also been reduced. The report stated that the proposal is a well-designed scheme that provides a sense of place and identity on this brownfield, under-utilised piece of land with good access to multiple frequent bus routes. The McGill Planning report stated that the LRD will provide a high quality living environment. Third parties now have the option of appealing the decision to An Bord Pleanala. On behalf of Ballyboden Tidy Towns Group, Marston Consultancy told the Council that the development will be contrary to the building height guidelines for the area and would result in excessive residential density for this location with inadequate high capacity public transport. Planning consultant, Anthony Marston told the Council that the residential density proposed in this instance is not justifiable and will have a knock-on negative impact upon the quality of the development and layout but also more importantly on the residential and visual amenities of the surrounding residential areas. Mr Marston also stated that the gross overdevelopment requires the Council to conclude that permission should be refused as the scheme constitutes an overdevelopment of the site. He also argued that the excessive massing and scale will be incongruous along all surrounding streets and will be overbearing in nature to surrounding residential areas as well as resulting in a loss of residential amenity. SOCIAL Democrats leader Holly Cairns has appealed to the ordinary women of Cork to consider coming forward as potential candidates for the party in the next local and general elections. Were looking for women who want to see the same sort of change as us, urged the Cork South West TD. But women often dont put themselves forward so they have to be asked, and then asked again. So, Im now asking women to ask themselves, because I dont know who you are to ask yet, which is one of the disadvantages of being a new party as we dont yet have branches all over the country. My message is to please come forward if youre thinking about it, and chat with us. Deputy Cairns said people generally think that to be involved in a party, not to mind be a candidate, you need a special invitation or qualification. Thats not the case, she stressed, pointing to herself just four years ago before she was elected a county councillor in 2019, when she knew next to nothing about politics. We need ordinary people. The key is in the word public representative; we need all types of people to be represented, so please consider it, and reconsider it, because we need better representation. While people might not have experience in politics, she said they might have experienced the fall-out of politics. Holly Cairns TD during her maiden speech as leader of the Social Democrats to members of the party and media at The Tara Building, Tara Street, Dublin. Picture: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos I often find that people who have had a bad experience from political decisions, for example it could be if you have child with a disability, you are usually just too busy fighting for things, but to have that representation at a higher level is crucial. So if you find you have something to say, theres a platform there to say it, and you need to grab that. The West Cork woman, elected to the Dail in 2020 and the only female representing Cork at this level, said she was excited looking ahead to the local and national elections. But the big defining factor in how well we do is how quickly we can find these people. And were not just looking for candidates, we need people to come out to support them. When I first started out in politics, I met two women canvassing for Repeal and basically the three of us won that local election seat by working hard together. So we need the campaign manager, the canvassers, the sandwich makers, we need everyone to get involved. PRIORITIES AS LEADER Theres busy times ahead, and the past few months have also been a whirlwind, but its all been positive since Holly took the leadership position in February. Im particularly lucky. For the most part, when you see a change in leadership in a party theres a controversy, metaphorical knives in backs and all that sort of stuff, and I couldnt have asked for a nicer transition, she said. While it was nice, it was also swift, with little time to mull things over. I remember at the time doing up the pros and cons of taking on the leadership, and the cons definitely outweighed the pros from a personal perspective; but I had that feeling that I couldnt not do it. Outside of finding election candidates, her other current priority issues, not surprisingly, include housing, which is beyond an emergency at this stage. Introducing a punitive tax for the 100,000-plus vacant homes in the country, and properly implementing existing policies, to bring back short-term lets like Airbnb into circulation, are some of her partys policies. This governments approach to housing is not compatible with ours. Weve seen what its like when the government says theres an emergency, we saw that in Covid, and theyre not treating the housing emergency like an emergency. It comes down to ego at this point as it involves Fina Gael admitting they got it wrong over 12 years. As for healthcare, she said it needs to be free at the point of need, and not dependent on how wealthy you are. The question is should someone be entitled to health care based on how deep their parents pockets are or not? Were the only country in Europe without a national health service, and were the country that spends the most per capita on health. Holly Cairns TD on the plinth of LEinster House on Kildare Street, Dublin. Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos A FOCUS ON WOMEN And female-related issues on her desk right now? Where to start, she said. Theres the absence of proper sex and relationship education, which results in a culture of violence against women, and weve always been calling for science-based sex and relationship education in schools. Were also pushing for more refuge spaces at the moment we provide half of the recommended bare minimum. Also, I dont think well ever reach a point where we have gender equality if we dont have free childcare like we have free schooling. There needs to be a move towards a public model of provision of childcare. That wont happen overnight, or quickly but we need a real focus on that. We dont consider the impact of women stepping out of work for certain periods of time because childcare is too expensive, she said. This impacts wages, not taking into account the existing gender pay gap, promotions, PRSI contributions and pensions. Then, because women are predominantly the carers, we see how the abject failure of successive governments to provide proper disability services disproportionately impacts on women as well because theyre the carers, theyre the ones staying at home. And then we need changes to the current abortion legislation. We have an independent review telling us what they are, and the government shying away from taking action, delaying, trying to play politics with it when women are suffering. I remember from Repeal, women who needed terminations for medical reasons, that was a lot of what changed peoples minds and hearts on the door, the thought of that woman having to travel for care. Those women are still travelling for care, because the legislation doesnt allow them access care in Ireland. The TD pauses for breath, and we ask if it can all seem too big a mountain to climb? No. In terms of all those things, I feel we can achieve change, but we need more women involved, we need a different style of politics, and we need a different government, but I feel hopeful about those things. Whats difficult to balance is being hopeful and excited about change, and the level of climate action needed yesterday. Its worrying. But the other things, we can change and we can do it. TIME OUT What Holly may be lacking in experience, the 33-year-old makes up for in energy and enthusiasm, but not burning out is something shes conscious of. I do have a tendency to get really into something, and I do think in politics you need to go hard or go home, but theres a balance I need to strike there so Im trying to be more conscious of that. The job is obviously full-on, but she says its really important she finds time for her partner, who lives in West Cork, friends, and family to make sure she can continue to do the job at a sustainable pace. One of my best friends, who I grew up with in West Cork, has been in Switzerland for a good few years and Im planning to go and see her next time theres a break in the Dail, she said, as an example. During her down time, Holly loves nothing more than getting out of the city and back to her home in Lisheen, on the Turks Head and to her dog, Hei Hei. I miss her so much when Im in Dublin! she said, and ultimately she hopes to build her own home near her home place. Putting in for planning permission is top of her to-do list, but things have been busy, she jokes! Holly Cairns TD with (L to R) Grandmother Sylvia Cairns and mother Madeline McKeever. Picture: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos HER BIG INSPIRATION Holly grew up in a modern blended family and has one sister, two half-sisters and two step-brothers. Im either the third youngest, or the fourth eldest, depending what way you look at it! It was lovely growing up like this, really nice. We gained so many more siblings in having a modern family, and I absolutely loved it. My parents separated when I was around four or five. My mum raised me as a single mother but not as a lone parent, as we spent half the week in mums house in Lisheen, and half in our dads in Durrus. We did that from when I was four or five and my sister was six or seven, until we finished school, and weve a really good relationship with both our parents, she said. Her mum Madeleine McKeever, is her biggest inspiration. She was a single mum, milking cows, running a dairy farm by herself, and raising two children. It wasnt easy for her and shes my biggest inspiration. Not just because of that either, but shes also just one of the most fair, understanding, reasonable and sound people I ever came across. Im obviously biased, but shes just amazing. The Meath woman is also an entrepreneur, having founded Brown Envelope Seeds. LOW POINTS Meanwhile, Holly, who bravely spoke out in January about her terrifying ordeal when a persistent online stalker began to show up at her home, said its not something she thinks about any more. She was forced to get CCTV and a security system at her property. It made national headlines at the time. It was a definite low of my political career so for. But for the most part, West Cork is very safe, and were very lucky to live here. I dont feel afraid. Another career low was her frustration at being in opposition during the Mother and Baby Home investigation. It felt incredibly frustrating to not be able to do more in opposition and it still really bothers me. But its also a massive motivation for me to go into government to finally give people who suffered at the hand of the state and of the church, people in industrial schools, Magdalene Laundries as well as Mother and Baby homes, the justice they deserve. It was just frustrating that you fight for the local seat, fight for the general seat, get on to committees, fight, fight, fight, but you still cannot change it, she said with clear emotion. So, ultimately, her ambition is to be in government. I didnt go into politics to go into opposition, I recognise the importance of it now that Im in it, to hold government to account is key, but my aim is to be in government. So Im determined to do it, but not for the sake of it, not if we dont have a big impact. Thats why I need to get more people involved and in seats, and then we can make real and meaningful changes for people together. In 1984, Vernon Howell revealed that God had been speaking to him since he was a child. And he announced he was the Seventh and Final Angel, who would lead Branch Davidians through the Apocalypse. Sometime later, a colleague suggested that a true prophet should be named David-ben-David and Vernon Howell became David Koresh. You know were in a cult, he told one of his followers. I mean, do you ever fear I might turn into another Jim Jones and give yall the Kool-Aid. In time, AR-15s, anti-tank rifles, grenades and gas masks flowed into the Branch Davidian compound. In Koresh, a work of creative nonfiction inspired by Norman Mailers classic, The Executioners Song, Stephan Talty (the author, among other books, of The Black Hand and The Good Assassin) provides a psychological portrait of the charismatic leader of the Branch Davidians, and a riveting account of the ATF raid and FBI siege of their compound in Waco, Texas, in 1993. Taltys immersive storytelling, which features Koreshs thoughts and inner turmoil, produces a more dramatic narrative. It humanizes a man who has often been dismissed as insane or satanic. But the approach also undermines the narratives credibility. And all too often, Taltys authorial interjections Koresh was insecure, lacked empathy, enjoyed humiliating men, spiraled into self-loathing and depression tell readers what he has already shown them. Koresh is at its best when Talty draws on transcripts of negotiations between government officials and Branch Davidians, and of bugs placed in the compound, to describe the 51-day standoff and its tragic end. The ATF raid, Talty demonstrates, lacked three elements essential to success: surprise, superior firepower and speed. During the siege, we learn, the FBI enlisted 899 people, including federal agents, U.S. Customs officials, members of the U.S. Army, Texas National Guard, Texas Rangers, Texas Department of Public Safety, the county Sheriffs Department, and Waco police. Negotiators joked with Koresh about whether Mel Gibson would play him in a movie; Davidians paid $1,000 for milk deliveries for their children. And the FBI considered a range of options to end the siege, including having a sniper shoot Koresh; storming the building; and using a machine developed by Russian scientists that could send subliminal messages. Attorney General Janet Reno gave the go-ahead for shooting tear gas into the compound, Talty suggests, because she believed the Davidians were abusing children. Branch Davidians, Talty demonstrates, set the fires that destroyed the compound. Nor is there evidence that bullets fired by anyone outside the compound wounded or killed any members of the group. Nonetheless, Talty reminds us, the confrontation, which resulted in the deaths of 76 people, including 20 children, fueled the rise of right-wing militias, already enraged by the death of a 14-year-old boy, allegedly at the hands of a U.S. marshal, during a standoff at Ruby Ridge, Idaho. The far right, Talty concludes, needs to be constantly refreshed with proof of crimes against them. And so, Waco in flames remains the glimpse behind the curtain, hidden truth made visible. It inspires. Glenn C. Altschuler is the Thomas and Dorothy Litwin Professor of American Studies at Cornell University. He reviewed Koresh for the Star Tribune (Minneapolis). ___ About the book KORESH: The True Story of David Koresh and the Tragedy at Waco Stephan Talty Mariner Books. 464 pp. $30. Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. Delegates attend the Korea-Pacific Islands Summit at the former presidential Blue House in Seoul on May 29, 2023. AHN YOUNG-JOON / POOL / AFP via Getty Images Following the two-day KoreaPacific Islands Summit, which ended Tuesday, Seoul agreed to double its development assistance to the island nations by 2027. In addition to development, leaders of the nations came to an agreement to bolster cooperation on security. Korea and the Pacific Islands Forum, recognising shared universal values including freedom, democracy, the rule of law, human rights, including the right to development, will expand and strengthen solidarity and cooperation, said the joint Declaration and Action Plan from the summit, according to a report from the Pacific Islands Forum. The theme of the summit was Navigating towards Co-Prosperity: Strengthening Cooperation with the Blue Pacific. The Leaders acknowledge the need to strengthen development cooperation and security collaboration including maritime security, climate security, energy security, cyber security, human security, public health and transnational security, said a joint statement by the 12 Pacific Island Forum (PIF) leaders and officials from 17 of the 18 members of the PIF that participated in the summit, along with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, as Reuters reported. Situated in the Pacific ocean between Asia and the U.S., the Pacific Islands are made up of 15 independent nations spanning 15 million square miles of ocean. South Korea said it supported the islands effort to protect their maritime zones, which are an essential source of revenue from fishing. [T]he Leaders will work together to protect and preserve the marine environment, promote maritime security and safety, and the lawful and sustainable use of the seas, and to enhance the capacity to prevent, deter and eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing in the region. To this end, the Leaders recognised the sovereign rights of Pacific Island Countries to implement zone-based measures to ensure the sustainable management of fisheries within their Exclusive Economic Zones in accordance with international law, the declaration stated. In the midst of concerns about Chinas economic and security objectives with the island nations, Western allies have begun to increase their involvement with them. [P]eace and stability in the Pacific region are interlinked with global peace and stability, the leaders said in the declaration. The Pacific Islands summit with South Korea followed recent meetings with the U.S. and India. The leaders also expressed the islands concern about radioactive waste and nuclear weapons. The Leaders reaffirmed their shared views on the criticality of keeping the ocean and maritime resources free of environmental pollution by radioactive wastes and other radioactive matter, the declaration said. The Leaders underlined their grave concern over the continuing threat of nuclear weapons proliferation and its risk to the peace and security of the planet; and stressed that the total elimination of nuclear weapons remains the shared goal. The 17 participating PIF members were the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Tonga, Kiribati, Palau, Niue, Nauru, the Cook Islands, Samoa, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Australia and New Zealand. The crisis of climate change, natural disasters, food, health, oceans and fisheries, which is directly linked to the survival and prosperity of Pacific island nations, can only be overcome through solidarity and cooperation, Yoon said, as Al Jazeera reported. I will firmly support the principle of a single Blue Pacific, which places importance on the role of the Pacific Islands Forum and the partnership of all member states, while deepening cooperation with Pacific island states. Irish dairy herd cull must be voluntary, warns milk suppliers association The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association has cautioned that any plans to cull Ireland's dairy herd must be voluntary, taking into account the individual circumstances of farmers, The Irish Times reported. Pat McCormack, president of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA) stressed the importance of a voluntary scheme, as it would be unfair to force culling on those who have made significant financial commitments based on specific targets. According to a report by the Irish Independent, up to 65,000 dairy cows per year may face culling as the government strives to align the agriculture sector with climate targets. An internal briefing paper from the country's Department of Agriculture explored measures to help the sector close the emissions gap. McCormack argued that farmers should be involved in any changes to strategy and expressed their willingness to contribute to the environmental journey. H e highlighted the need for investment in scientific infrastructure to achieve lower emissions and emphasized the farmers' commitment to environmental impact reduction. McCormack also noted that the current dairy herd size is similar to that of 30 years ago, as numbers had initially dropped due to quotas over a decade ago but have since risen. Regarding the potential cull, McCormack pointed out that if it were voluntary, some farmers would decline participation, while others might choose to exit the dairy sector. He expressed disappointment that farmers in other sectors did not have similar opportunities for reduction or exit. - The Irish Times Research to expand beef production options in Western Australia's north A new research project aims to grow future beef production options in Western Australia's north, as part of a landmark collaboration between research bodies, universities and the Western Australian government. The $6 million initiative is eyeing better synergies between the diverse Ord River Irrigated Area and the state's long-running northern pastoral sector. It is the first project to kick off under the WA Agricultural Research Collaboration and involves investment from a range of partners including the Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia. The three-year Cropping Enabled Cattle project will look at potential for irrigated crops in the Ord, such as cotton meal and seed, maize and other grass silage, to contribute to local cattle finishing systems. Researchers will test a range of cattle backgrounding systems in the Ord Valley, potentially including a sterile variety of the fodder tree leucaena, which has been shown to reduce methane emissions from grazing cattle. The project has a strong emphasis on building research capacity in regional WA, creating three new regional roles and establishing joint PhD appointments with collaboration partners. "This is an exciting new project looking at ways to diversify our pastoral systems in a sustainable way and enable the pastoral sector to tap into the production potential of the Ord," Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis said. "This project brings together a range of research agencies and universities under the WA Agricultural Research Collaboration, linking them with the CRCNA to deliver benefits that will not only be applicable for WA, but right across Northern Australia. "It is an example of what the Collaboration was set up to achieve building enduring research capacity and capability in WA and delivering meaningful research outcomes. "This project aims to deliver new knowledge of feeding systems to optimise feeding and grow-out systems for cattle in the Kimberley ultimately growing the productivity and profitability of the sector." - Western Australia Government Maine state, US legislators propose density limits for salmon farms Legislators in the state of Maine, US, have put forward a new bill aimed at imposing density limits on salmon farms operating in state waters, in direct response to the controversies surrounding the American Aquafarms project, SeafoodSource reported. The proposed bill, known as LD 1951 or "An Act Regarding Marine Finfish Aquaculture," seeks to amend existing state laws by introducing maximum stocking densities for salmon net pens located in state waters. The Committee on Marine Resources of Maine unanimously voted ought-to-pass on May 25th, endorsing an amended version of the bill that sets a density limit of 30 kg per cubic meter for salmonid net pens. Maine State Senator Nicole Grohoski, the bill's sponsor, specifically cited the issues surrounding the American Aquafarms proposal as a driving force behind the need to update the state's regulations pertaining to salmonid aquaculture. During a committee hearing, Senator Grohoski expressed concerns raised by her constituents about the potential impact of fish farms on the state's coastal resources. She said that the proposed stocking density limit is not extreme and aligns with the upper limits recommended or required by other governments worldwide. American Aquafarms had put forward plans for a closed net-pen salmon aquaculture venture with an annual production capacity of up to 30,000 metric tonnes. The project, slated to be located in Frenchman Bay off the coast of Gouldsboro, Maine, faced vehement opposition from local residents due to its proximity to Acadia National Park. The town of Gouldsboro implemented a moratorium on large-scale fish farms, and several local groups actively opposed the project. Ultimately, American Aquafarms failed to secure a crucial lease in the state, leading to the resignation of its former CEO, Keith Decker. In early May, the company's processing plant was put up for auction. During the committee hearing, Maine Department of Marine Resources Commissioner Patrick Keliher revealed that American Aquafarms' proposal was rejected for various reasons, not solely due to technicalities surrounding the sourcing of salmon eggs from AquaBounty, a company known for its advancements in genetically engineered salmon. - SeafoodSource Brazilian banks join EU in denying credit to meatpackers linked to illegal deforestation In a move echoing new European Union regulations aimed at protecting rainforests, Brazilian banks have committed to refusing credit to meatpackers that source cattle from illegally deforested areas, Fortune reported. The sustainability standard, released by Febraban, Brazil's bank federation, on Tuesday, requires slaughterhouses to implement a tracking system to monitor their entire supply chain in the Amazon region and Maranhao state by December 2025. This requirement applies to both direct and indirect suppliers. Leading meatpackers, JBS SA and Marfrig Global Foods SA, have already pledged to cease purchasing cattle from indirect suppliers associated with illegal deforestation in the Amazon by 2025. These companies have already prohibited direct purchases from illegally cleared areas. Brazilian beef exporters' group, Abiec, has raised objections, pointing out what it considers a double standard imposed by the banks. The group highlights that landowners do not face the same financing requirements. In response, Abiec said in an emailed statement that banks should adopt the same environmental requirements for all account holders, including owners of rural areas. The group further noted that beef producers have already banned over 20,000 ranchers from selling cattle to its members due to engaging in illegal environmental practices. As of now, 21 banks, including Itau Unibanco, Banco do Brasil, Bradesco, Santander, and Caixa Economica Federal, have signed the protocol. Febraban said that financing activities linked to deforestation can pose credit, reputation, and operational risks. This development comes after the European Union imposed regulations in December, demanding that exporters provide evidence that agricultural commodities, such as beef, soy, and coffee, have not contributed to deforestation. - Fortune Lactalis Australia reduces farmgate milk price, dairy farmers concerned Dairy farmers in Australia's Queensland and New South Wales have voiced their dismay and frustration following the announcement of a farmgate milk price reduction by milk processor Lactalis Australia from AUD 0.87 (~US$0.56; AUD 1 = US$0.65) to AUD 0.82 (~US$0.53) per litre, Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported. EastAUSmilk CEO Eric Danzi said that farmers were expecting an increase in milk prices due to a significant reduction of half a billion litres in milk production across Australia in the past year. Danzi strongly urged Lactalis suppliers to assert their power by engaging with other major processors. While other companies Norco and Bega are yet to disclose their milk prices for the upcoming financial year, they are legally required to do so by June 1, 2023. Danzi expressed scepticism about the possibility of competitors reducing their prices, stating that any increase less than three cents would be merely symbolic and insufficient to meet farmers' expectations. The announcement of the price drop has had a profound impact on individual farmers. Peter Graham, a dairy farmer from Codrington in the Northern Rivers, described it as an "absolute shock" and estimated a loss of approximately AUD 65,000 (~US$42,000) for his operation. He said this reduction will compel many farmers to re-evaluate their future in the industry. The decline in milk prices is a significant blow, considering the recent challenges faced by dairy farmers. Despite favourable seasons in Queensland and New South Wales, the industry has grappled with the aftermath of flooding and rising costs, resulting in a number of farmers leaving the sector nationwide. - Australian Broadcasting Corporation UN says aquaculture holds key to alleviating poverty in Angola The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has highlighted the potential of aquaculture to uplift the Angolan population out of poverty, The Fish Site repoted. Currently, Angola heavily relies on crude oil, which accounts for 93% of its exports. Insufficient productivity and limited opportunities in other economic sectors have left one-third of the population below the poverty line. The volatility of oil prices underscores the urgent need to diversify the country's economy and exports. Paul Akiwumi, the director of UNCTAD's division for Africa and least developed countries, emphasized that the fisheries and aquaculture sector can play a crucial role in Angola's economic diversification and the achievement of its development goals. By leveraging the blue economy, Angola can create employment opportunities, boost trade, enhance food security, improve livelihoods, and reduce poverty. UNCTAD is actively supporting Angola in building a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive blue economy through its EU-UNCTAD Joint Programme for Angola: Train for Trade II. This programme addresses multiple economic policy areas simultaneously, including the development of value chains in green and creative sectors, transportation, investment, entrepreneurship, trade policy, and trade facilitation. With funding from the European Union, UNCTAD has already trained 2,700 government officials, private sector representatives, academia, and civil society stakeholders. The training focuses on overcoming the challenges faced by Angola's fisheries and aquaculture sector. For instance, it emphasises the importance of assessing fish stocks to gather essential data for effective control of fishing activities and the establishment of total allowable catch, which ensures sustainability. It also provides training in modern fisheries techniques, entrepreneurial skills, and compliance with national and international safety and quality standards. Jorge Quituta, the director general of Jorana, a fisheries firm in Angola, said it is important that the private sector contributes more to the country's blue economy. Currently, the sector's role is considered "very weak," and stakeholders require better guidance, technical and scientific knowledge, and practical skills. Quituta expressed gratitude for UNCTAD's indispensable support and hopes for further assistance in the future. UNCTAD has been actively engaged in capacity-building through its flagship programme, Empretec, which has equipped trainers in Angola to provide entrepreneurial training to firms operating in the fisheries, tropical fruits, and honey sectors. Additionally, UNCTAD organized a training workshop in October 2022, where Angolan fisheries stakeholders learned from their counterparts in Vietnam, a global leader in seafood exports due to determined policies, capacity-building efforts, and investments. In May 2023, UNCTAD and the International Standardisation Organisation (ISO) conducted training for 50 Angolan stakeholders on meeting international standards required for expanding fish exports to lucrative markets in Asia, Europe, and the US. These training initiatives have enabled Angolan authorities and stakeholders to identify gaps and develop action plans to harness the growing opportunities in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. - The Fish Site While its always prudent to review your bank accounts, its especially important to do so now if you are a Wells Fargo customer. There is a scam being run on Wells Fargo customers in Virginia in which fake charges, usually in the range of $14, are placed on Wells Fargo debit card accounts for items bought at Amazon Prime. The Richmond Times-Dispatch reported June 21 more than 100 people had contacted the paper to report the problem. I found out about it few days ago, firsthand, when I checked my Virginia Beach Wells Fargo bank account and was surprised to see three charges, each around $14, to Amazon Prime that I didnt make and which were declined by the bank. I contacted Wells Fargo immediately and was told the bank had detected the problem and was automatically declining all charges to Amazon Prime. (I have since been told only multiple charges to Amazon Prime, in the suspicious amount, are declined.) I was surprised to learn of the fraud because I hadnt heard anything about it in the media. I canceled my card, ordered a new one and went to a branch to pick up a temporary card. A banker, who said the bank had gone through cases of replacement cards due to the scam, recommended the card that I had just ordered over the phone be canceled and another ordered because some of the replacement cards issued in the wake of the scam had also been compromised with Amazon charges. That falls in line with the Dispatch story that reported some customers had received five replacement cards, each of which received fraudulent Amazon charges. For a company that has had its share of public relations headaches in the last several of years, not the least of which was the cross-selling scandal in which employees opened millions of unauthorized accounts in customers names to meet sales goals, you might think Wells Fargo would get out in front of this problem. The San Francisco-based company launched an ad campaign in May titled Re-Established with the taglines Earning Your Trust Back and Established 1852, Re-Established with a Recommitment to You. It seems a heads-up to customers regarding potential fraud would help with the trust factor. We are fully reimbursing customers who were impacted by unauthorized transactions. This unfortunate experience is fraud. No Wells Fargo systems or accounts have been breached, Wells Fargo spokesperson Kristy Marshall wrote in an email. We have a thorough investigation process to research all reports of account fraud. When we identified the issue we took action to prevent this particular fraud from occurring again. To protect the effectiveness of our security measures, we cannot discuss details about this issue or the specific actions we have taken. When asked to clarify how no Wells Fargo systems or accounts had been breached, Marshall wrote, The fraudsters did not breach Wells Fargo systems, and do not have personally identifiable customer account information and have not gained access to customer accounts. This fraud is specific to unauthorized debit card transactions. A receptionist at Amazons corporate headquarters said there wasnt a public relations employee to speak with there. An email to Amazons public relations department did not receive a response. While many questions remain, the most vital is simply how is this happening? Where are the criminals getting the debit card numbers? Why is it only happening to Wells Fargo debit card holders? Answers dont seem to be forthcoming. After taking another look at my bank account, I discovered three more charges to Amazon Prime had been placed in May. Again, I called Wells Fargo and had to file a claim for those. The claims representative said there had been a spike in the number of Amazon Prime-related claims that week and speculated Amazon Prime had a breach on its end. I was told to expect my account to be credited within two business days. Experts say one way to avoid being the victim of such a scam is to use a credit card, not a debit card, when making online purchases because they offer more protection against fraudulent claims and carry a maximum liability of $50. If a debit card is compromised, all of the funds in the associated bank or savings account are in jeopardy. Marshall said customers who notice unusual activity on their accounts should contact Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-9355 and small business customers should call 1-800-225-9355. Jamie Howell, marketing and events coordinator with the Hampton Roads Better Business Bureau, said no complaints regarding Amazon Prime or Wells Fargo had been received nor had there been input on the organizations Scam Tracker, an online tool that allows victims to report fraud. Send questions or ideas for future columns to Joy Vann at joyvann@cox.net. Send questions or ideas for future columns to Joy Vann at joyvann@cox.net. New Zealands Civil Aviation Authority has plans for its national airline to start weighing passengers before flights from Auckland International Airport. The program, set to run through July 2 is being called a passenger weight survey and will provide data on the weight load and distribution for Air New Zealands international flights, CNN Travel reported. We weigh everything that goes on the aircraft from the cargo to the meals onboard to the luggage in the hold, Alastair James, the airlines load control improvement specialist, was quoted as saying. For customers, crew and cabin bags, we use average weights, which we get from doing this survey, he added. The airline has claimed that the weight records will be kept anonymous and out of sight during the process. Passengers will be expected to stand on a digital scale during pre-flight check-in, and the information will reportedly be submitted to a database but will not be viewable to the in-person agent. We know stepping on the scales can be daunting. We want to reassure our customers there is no visible display anywhere. No one can see your weight, not even us, James continued in his statement. Air NZ has required passengers to step on the scales previously, during a survey in 2021, but this is the first time the regulation will affect international travelers, said the airline. One of the first groups to take part in the new program, will be those traveling direct from Auckland to New Yorks JFK Airport. The 17-hour flight was introduced last fall as a milestone in Air NZs post-pandemic revamp, and is one of the longest flights in the world. ___ 2023 New York Daily News. Visit at nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A recently disclosed ransomware attack has compromised some particularly sensitive medical data. Dental insurer Managed Care of North America (MCNA) reports that an intruder accessed and took copies of informationpatients between February 26th and March 7th of this year, including addresses, Social Security numbers, driver's licenses and insurance data. Some of the info belonged to parents, guardians and guarantors (people who pay bills on others' behalf), MCNA says. A filing with Maine's Attorney General indicates that over 8.9 million people were affected. The company hasn't identified the perpetrator. However, TechCrunch has learned that the Russia-based LockBit ransomware group is taking credit and says it has published all the files after MCNA refused to pay a $10 million ransom. Samples from the roughly 700GB of data appear to corroborate the claim. MCNA is offering one year of free identity theft protection to affected customers. It's also advising clients to check their accounts and bills for anything unusual. The firm says it's the largest US insurer for government-backed plans for children and seniors, and its partners include New York City as well as numerous unions. The tally makes this the largest health data breach in 2023 to date. Before now, the largest incident was a March breach at PharMerica that compromised info for nearly 6 million patients. MCNA is far from unique as a victim of ransomware, but the responses have varied across the industry. While some have refused to pay ransoms and have instead dealt with the repercussions, others have paid millions to reclaim their systems. This also suggests that LockBit hasn't been deterred by recent crackdowns. Canadian police arrested alleged leader Mikahil Vasiliev in November, while the US charged a Russian national in March. However, the cybercrime outfit has also been attached to high-profile attacks that include California's finance department and the UK's Royal Mail. Campaigns like this aren't likely to stop in the near future. Its been four years since the Virginia Beach mass shooting. For some of the survivors, simply driving near the Virginia Beach Municipal Center can be a traumatic experience. Driving down Dam Neck Road and Princess Anne Road can automatically bring heavy anxiety, nervousness, tingling in the body, said Mark Hayes, the team lead at the Virginia Beach Strong Center. The body keeps score. The center a partnership between the city of Virginia Beach and Sentara Healthcare works with survivors and others affected by the 2019 shooting, when a disgruntled city employee killed 12 people. Hayes said he has patients who still sometimes experience panic attacks as they head to work. Since then, there have been numerous other mass shootings across the country. A school in Uvalde. A Chesapeake Wal-Mart. A mall in Allen, Texas. With the frequency of these tragedies increasing, it can feel like there is no time to process one before the next occurs. For those directly impacted, life may never be the same. But those who see or hear first-hand accounts of what happened can also experience what is called secondary trauma. Individuals experience secondary trauma indirectly through hearing details or witnessing the aftermath of a trauma experienced by another person, said Danyell Collins-Facteau, a licensed professional counselor with Thriveworks in Virginia Beach. Mass shootings clearly are one source of secondary trauma that has significantly impacted our nation and the Hampton Roads community. This is occurring during a time when many, particularly children and teens, are experiencing a mental health crisis that is really unparalleled. First responders, medical professionals and loved-ones of people involved are particularly susceptible to secondary trauma. But so is the general public, especially in a time when news reports and other accounts of a tragedy circulate so fast and so completely on social media. Hayes and Collins-Facteau spoke about how people can recognize if they or a loved one is struggling with secondary trauma, and offered some coping strategies. ___ Recognizing symptoms One of the biggest signs that someone is struggling is a change in behavior patterns. Frequent crying, problems with concentration, irritability, trouble sleeping and increased isolation can all be signs that someone is experiencing secondary trauma, Hayes said. In children and adolescents, signs can include bed-wetting, nightmares or a refusal to go to school. Parents and caregivers can monitor their children for signs of anxiety, fear and worry that are outside the norm of what they usually experience, said Collins-Facteau. Other signs of secondary trauma can include hypervigilance, as well as intense feelings of guilt, sadness, anger or fear. ___ Releasing buildup Our bodies absorb trauma. Our body remembers things that weve experienced, whether theyre positive or negative, Collins-Facteau said. As people witness one tragedy after another, some try to cope by pushing down their feelings. Were pushing it down, pushing it down, pushing it down, but theres only so much that can fill up in there, Collins-Facteau said. So one of the ways to cope, she said, is by releasing the buildup. The expression of thought and emotion, by journaling, drawing, talking it out and/or physical movement are powerful tools that help the body digest the stress, she said. Hayes said when it comes to children, parents should start the conversation. Children likely will hear about major incidents from friends or through social media, he said. You dont want to leave the child to their own imagination, Hayes said. ___ Creating resilience Some people seek isolation in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event, Hayes said. Isolation can be helpful at times, but try not to stay in your isolation, he said. There are other people who may not have walked in your shoes, but have experienced the feelings that you have experienced, that have been in situations that could help you along your journey. Forming connections with others is a way to build resilience, experts say. Resilience is defined as the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or significant sources of stress, Collins-Facteau said. Other resilience-building activities include focusing on personal wellness through exercise, proper nutrition and hydration, and good sleep habits. Seeking support from faith-based or civic organizations that are aligned with your beliefs can also help. ___ Seeking help Finally, if someone has experienced trauma symptoms for more than a month and those symptoms are impacting their quality of life, they should seek out professional help. Collins-Facteau said sometimes they dont think theyre sick enough to seek out help, or that they should grin and bear it or pull themselves up by their bootstraps. But she reminds people that asking for help is a sign of strength, and that mental health is as important to address as physical health. What we know about trauma is that the longer that symptoms go on without treatment, the more impacted the person will be in the long run, she said. Nour Habib, nour.habib@virginiamedia.com Wednesday, May 31, 2023 In this episode we dive into the importance of becoming a master of creativity in order to do some of the following: -Selling Ideas over selling products -Become a creative salesperson over a competitive salesperson -Staying top of mind in every client and potential customer by becoming memorable How We Can Help You Close More Deals: Gitomer Books andCourses Here Sales Mastery Program Here Gitomer Sales Certification Here Speaking and Events Here Custom Sales Processes and Scripts Here (The Center Square) - North Dakota outpaces its neighbors in having a competitive property tax structure, ranking in the top ten nationally, according to a report. North Dakota placed 9th overall in the Tax Foundations analysis of states property taxes, which examines state and local taxes on real and personal property, net worth, and asset transfers. The state improved its score, jumping one spot up from last years assessment. Property taxes are set to improve even more for North Dakotans after Gov. Doug Burgum signed a bill that brings $515 million in tax relief, including a $500 tax credit on primary residences. Lawmakers haggled over the tax relief details in House Bill 1158 in over ten conference committee meetings during this past legislative session. The bill also dropped the income tax to the lowest rate in the nation among states that tax individual income, according to Burgum. Originally, Burgum proposed a flat tax. Among other property tax relief measures passed is a 100% reduction of the taxable valuation of a homestead deduction for residents 65 and older who make less than $40,000 a year. Those making $40,000 to $70,000 yearly will be eligible for a 50% reduction. States are in a better position to attract business investment when they maintain competitive real property tax rates and avoid harmful taxes on tangible personal property, intangible property, wealth, and asset transfers, the Tax Foundation said in its report. North Dakota does not tax personal property except for certain oil and gas refineries and utilities. And while the state does have an estate tax law, estate taxes are no longer paid to North Dakota due to the Federal Congressional Budget Act Sunset Law, according to the Tax Commissioners office. States with the best scores on property taxes were Indiana, New Mexico, Idaho, Delaware, and Nevada. Those with the worst were Connecticut, New York, Vermont, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and the District of Columbia. The second highest among the states neighboring North Dakota was South Dakota, which ranked 14th. Representative Danny McCormick speaks on the floor Tuesday, May 16, 2023, inside the State Capitol in Baton Rouge, La. A Louisiana Senate Committee advanced a controversial bill Tuesday that would allow adults over the age of 21 to carry a concealed firearm without a license or training. The Senate Judiciary B Committee signed off on House Bill 131 by Rep. Danny McCormick, R-Oil City, on a 4-1 vote, with committee Chair Sen. Gary Smith, D-Norco, being the sole vote opposed. Sen. Gregory Tarver, D-Shreveport, joined Republicans in supporting the bill. The bill is similar to one McCormick advanced last year, which stalled in the Senate in the wake of the mass shooting at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas. This is the fourth time he has offered the proposal. McCormicks legislation, which he referred to as a constitutional carry bill, is based on a conservative position that the U.S. Constitution allows a firearm to be carried without a permit. It would eliminate all training and background check requirements to carry a concealed weapon in Louisiana. House Bill 131 will restore the Second Amendment in Louisiana, McCormick told committee members. The bill was amended by the committee to only apply to those over the age of 21. A previous version of the bill would have allowed anyone 18 or older to carry a concealed firearm without a license. Smith, who said he has a concealed firearm license, made his opposition known from the start. OK, lets take on the Wild Wild West, he said as McCormick walked up to the table to present his bill. Comparisons to the Wild West have been a popular talking point among Democrats opposed to the bill. The bill was opposed by several progressive organizations, including Louisiana Progress and Moms Demand Action, law enforcement groups and the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops. Allowing anyone who is not prohibited from possessing a firearm under any federal or state law to conceal a firearm enhances the already existing danger to the lives of our law enforcement officers, said Fabian Blache, executive director of the Louisiana Association of Chiefs of Police. Tom Costanza, executive director of the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, argued the bill is not pro-life. It is the position of the bishops to oppose permitless carry because it will remove important and reasonable safeguards to protect human life, he said. The current system of training promotes a culture of responsibility and a level of comprehensive training commenced with ones right to conceal a gun, Costanza added. The bill was supported by the National Rifle Association. A representative for Louisiana Gun Owners, a gun rights advocacy organization, withdrew his support after the committee raised the age. Criminals already carry a firearm without regard for the law. This bill isnt for them. This legislation simply puts the law-abiding citizens of Louisiana on equal footing, NRA state director Kelby Seanor said. Because the bill will lead to a $4.4 million annual decrease in state permit revenue, it will likely go before the Senate Finance Committee, although the Senate could opt to discharge the bill from the committee without a vote. McCormicks bill has to receive Senate backing as well as House approval on amendments before the legislature adjourns June 8. If not acted upon immediately, the legislation faces a constitutional provision that requires three-quarters of each chamber to approve calling a bill for a vote in the last 72 hours of a legislative session. SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST. DONATE The post Permitless firearm carry bill takes step forward in Louisiana Senate appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator. Supporters of the Supreme Court ruling that narrowed the scope of the Clean Water Act said it reins in overzealous regulators who considered dry washes and seasonal streams subject to oversight. But critics say the change poses a significant threat in states like Arizona, where water, like the San Pedro River here, is ever so precious. (File photo courtesy Sandy Bahr/Sierra Club, Grand Canyon Chapter) WASHINGTON Ranchers and Republican lawmakers are welcoming a Supreme Court ruling that narrows the range of waters subject to federal regulation, calling it a win for private property rights that reins in overeager regulators. Its very difficult to navigate federal processes, very difficult. And it seems particularly silly in a case where youre getting a permit for water thats almost never there, said Jeff Eisenberg, director of policy for the Arizona Cattle Growers Association, of the costly and cumbersome process of getting government permits. But environmental groups said the ruling in Sackett v. EPA will be disastrous for Arizona, where water is rare and protecting it is critically important to both people and endangered species. It leaves almost all of Arizonas creeks, springs and washes without any federal protections against water pollution. said Taylor McKinnon, Southwest director for the Center for Biological Diversity. If you love swimming in polluted creeks, this ruling is for you. The ruling earlier this month ends a long-running dispute between Michael and Clara Sackett, who wanted to build a house on land they bought near Priest Lake, Idaho, and the Environmental Protection Agency, which said the property contained wetlands. The EPA said the Sacketts did not get government approval for the project, ordered them to stop backfilling site and begin restoration of the site, and threatened fines of more than $40,000 a day if they failed to comply. At issue was the question of how to define the waters of the United States, which are regulated by the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers under the Clean Water Act. Since the 1970s, those waters have included wetlands, but critics said regulators were including wetlands far removed from traditional navigable waters, along with seasonal streams and ditches and drains that feed into surface waters. The court ruled 9-0 that the Sacketts property should not have been subject to federal regulation, but split on where to draw the line over what should and should not be regulated. Justice Samuel Alito prefaced his opinion for the majority by noting that the Clean Water Act has been a great success since its enactment in 1972, making many formerly fetid bodies of water safe for the use and enjoyment of the people of this country. But he said the boundaries of the act have been uncertain from the start, and asked whether waters of the U.S. included mudflats, sandflats, wetlands, sloughs, prairie potholes, wet meadows (or) playa lakes? How about ditches, swimming pools, and puddles? That uncertainty put property owners in a precarious position, he wrote. Because the CWA can sweep broadly enough to criminalize mundane activities like moving dirt, this unchecked definition of the waters of the United States means that a staggering array of landowners are at risk of criminal prosecution or onerous civil penalties, Alito wrote. He said the traditional inclusion of wetlands adjacent to navigable waters is too broad, and that there must be a direct connection with surface waters for the Clean Water Act to apply. The act, Alito wrote, should only include those wetlands with a continuous surface connection to bodies that are waters of the United States in their own right, so that they are indistinguishable from those waters. But in a concurring opinion joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson, Justice Elena Kagan said Congress had been very clear in the scope of the Clean Water Act when it wrote the law, and she said that with Alitos opinion the court substitutes its own ideas about policymaking for Congresss. Those three justices also joined in Justice Brett Kavanaughs concurrence, which said that narrowing the test from adjacent wetlands to adjoining would leave some long-regulated waters no longer covered by the Clean Water Act, with significant repercussions for water quality and flood control for the United States. Kavanaugh pointed to Mississippi River wetlands that may be physically separated from the river by levees, but are an important part of river flood control. He said scientific evidence overwhelmingly demonstrates that wetlands separated from navigable waters by such barriers still play an important role in protecting the larger waters. Far from clarifying the issue for property owners, Kavanaugh said, the courts new standard is sufficiently novel and vague that it may create regulatory uncertainty for the Federal Government, the States, and regulated parties. Arizona landowners disagreed, saying the narrower rule will make their lives easier. I truly believe it grants to private property owners freedom to manage and operate their private property without the heavy hand of the Corps of Engineers and the EPA pressing you down, said Jim Chilton, who owns a ranch south of Arivaca. It leaves almost all of Arizonas creeks, springs and washes without any federal protections against water pollution. If you love swimming in polluted creeks, this ruling is for you. Taylor McKinnon, Center for Biological Diversity Chilton said he has run into several regulatory barriers from the EPA and the Corps of Engineers while trying to build projects that cross dry washes on his ranch. He said with the the courts ruling, he plans to build a road across a dry wash from his ranch house to one of his barns. But Sandy Bahr, director of the Sierra Clubs Grand Canyon Chapter, said desert washes help to feed our perennial waters. They also help with flood control. They help limit sedimentation, and of course, theyre essential to wildlife. Most of our wildlife is associated with riparian areas in some way those vegetation community that grows along rivers, streams and washes. She called the ruling disappointing, saying it undervalues Arizonas waters, most of which are vulnerable because theyre also not protected by state law. I think people often think about its (the Clean Water Act) significance in places that have a lot of wetlands and big waters, Bahr said. But I think its even more significant in places like Arizona where we are water-limited and what we have is ever so precious. The White House on Thursday called the ruling disappointing and said it would work with the Justice Department to review the decision. It said the ruling defies the science that confirms the critical role of wetlands in safeguarding our nations streams, rivers, and lakes from chemicals and pollutants that harm the health and wellbeing of children, families, and communities. That was echoed by Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Phoenix, who tweeted: Every American deserves access to clean water. Trumps handpicked Supreme Court just made it easier for the oil and gas industry to pollute our wetlands. But Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Gilbert, tweeted that the ruling counters the Biden administrations aggressive overregulation and rightfully preserved the private property rights and freedoms of millions of Americans. Rep. Eli Crane, R-Oro Valley, tweeted that ruling the was a huge win for rural America and small businesses in the fight against government overreach. Michael Byrd, the executive director of Prescott Creeks Preservation Association, worries about the impact of the ruling. He said that even though wetlands occupy less than 1% of Arizona, more than 80% of species in the state rely on such habitats. It seems like there should be room to protect these areas that are absolutely critical to our river systems, Byrd said. He echoed Kavanaughs argument that the ruling just adds a lot of uncertainty to everybodys world when it comes to clean-water efforts. We had a Clean Water Act that appeared to be working pretty well for the last 51 years. And that has now been materially changed, Byrd said. It kind of puts into question what the protections are going to be for most of the states waterways. And I think thats not a good thing. Cronkite News reporters Lauren Irwin, Shelly Garzon, Jasmine Kabiri and Isabel Garcia contributed to this report. SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST. DONATE The post Ranchers hail, environmentalists fear Supreme Court clean water ruling appeared first on Arizona Mirror. Fairfield, MT (59436) Today Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. High 78F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight A few clouds from time to time. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 53F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. A recent study finds the financial capability of Latinos improved over the last decade, but obstacles to Latino wealth remain. In February 2023, the U.S. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Foundation published new findings in a study titled A Closer Look at Financial Capability of Hispanic Adults in the United States. Several FINRA surveys contributed to the 2023 FINRA study, and the most recent of those surveys was fielded in 2021 to a nationally represented sample of the diverse U.S. Latino population. It showed more Latinos are saving and investing, but experiences vary greatly by race, gender, income and education. Financial capability improvements Between 2009 and 2021, the number of Latinos reporting that they had set aside some amount of emergency savings nearly doubled, from 29% in 2009 to 48% in 2021. On the whole, Latino adults reported they were better able to manage everyday money matters and experienced less financial fragility in 2021 compared to 2009. The study also identified an increase in Latino investment account ownership from 24% in 2012 to 30% in 2021. Whats behind Latino financial gains While the progress sounds encouraging, a closer look shows a complex and not-so-rosy situation. First, the study attributes some of the financial gains by Latinos to broader trends in the financial sector, and not necessarily gains specific to the Latino community. Since 2009, its become easier for people with varying budgets to open an investment account and trade, especially with the creation of fractional shares and zero-commission trading. FINRA Foundation senior researcher and study author Olivia Valdes suggests the Latino progress between 2009 and 2021 is consistent with that of the general U.S. population. Valdes attributes some of this trend to the year the study started. When we first started collecting this data, it was in 2009 right after the Great Recession. It was a low point in financial capability in general, says Valdes. As the economy has improved, it makes sense that things have looked better. She says that's been the case in general, including for other racial and ethnic groups. The reality is the wealth gap between Latino and non-Latino households remains stark. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median net worth of Latino households in 2020 was $52,190, compared with $195,600 for non-Latino households. Latinos lack access to retirement accounts Latinos are more likely to face barriers to retirement benefits, too. The FINRA study found that in 2012, only 48% of Latinos owned a retirement plan, and that percentage grew only a small amount to 51% by 2021. The gap is even greater for Latinos without a college degree. The study found that 75% of Latino college graduates owned a retirement account compared to 42% of those with lower levels of education. The studys authors partly attribute low rates to a lack of access, since some estimates find that only half of Hispanic workers have access to employer-sponsored retirement plans." FINRA referenced a 2018 study by UnidosUS titled Latinos Retirement Insecurity in the United States, which also drew its information from the U.S. Census. It found Latinos face access and eligibility hurdles to employer-sponsored retirement and showed nearly 75% of white workers have a job that sponsors a retirement plan, compared with only 53% of Latinos. Race, gender and discrimination The FINRA survey revealed important differences in financial experiences by race, gender, income, education and age: Latinas reported greater financial fragility and difficulty paying expenses than Latino men. Latinos without a college degree and/or with incomes below $50,000 reported more difficulty paying expenses and financial fragility than those with a college degree or earning more than $50,000. Black Latinos and lower-income Latinos were more likely to use high-cost borrowing services than non-Black and higher-income Latinos. The experiences Latinos face likely influence their financial lives and choices. Even if Black and brown investors have similar goals as white investors, they likely face a different path to getting there, says Omari Hall, a financial counselor and diversity leader at Greenpath Financial Wellness in Detroit. Hall points to how discriminatory experiences and barriers to access have led to a lack of trust in the financial system. "Most financial services systems do not account for the entry point that many Black and brown folks are starting from in order to get to those goals, says Hall. Research by the U.S. Census Bureau also suggests discrimination could be a factor in these gaps. Its study on wealth disparity within the Latino community identified disparities in well-being and wealth among Hispanic origin groups. It found that barriers to refugee and asylum laws, knowledge of English, and racial discrimination contribute to well-being and wealth variation between Latino groups. These findings are consistent with previous research on experiences of discrimination. In 2021, a study by the Pew Research Center found: No matter their skin color and despite the notable gap, Latinos are experiencing discrimination. Around half of Latino adults reported experiences of discrimination in the year prior to the Pew study, such as: being told to go back to their country, being criticized for speaking Spanish, or being regarded as stupid. Latinos with darker skin color reported experiencing more discrimination (64%) than Latinos with lighter skin color (54%). The FINRA study concludes that financial education is one solution to improving financial capability. But discrimination still impacts Latino financial health. Latinos make less on average and have fewer paths to financial support at their disposal compared with non-Latino households. Until these gaps are closed, financial health trends for Latinos (and others) will continue to be underwhelming. Alieza Durana writes for NerdWallet. Email: adurana@nerdwallet.com. The article Latinos Make Financial Progress, But Discrimination Persists originally appeared on NerdWallet. Fairfield, MT (59436) Today Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. High 78F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 53F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Wednesday marks four years since a city employee shot and killed 12 people and injured six others at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center, before he was fatally shot by police. But for many of the family members and coworkers left holding onto to only memories of their loved ones, last Friday was especially difficult. May 31, 2019 the day of the mass shooting was the last Friday in May. Its been really tough, said Sarah Gayle Leonard, 37, daughter of Mary Louise Gayle, by phone early Saturday morning. Straining to maintain a steady voice at times, Gayle described the emotional pain she continues to feel over her mothers violent death and her frustration with the city over the course of the investigation into the shooting. 5/31 2019 shook the city of Virginia Beach; it shook the state of Virginia, she said. There hasnt been a path to healing, but we can change that. Family members have been fighting for the passage of state legislation that will provide them and others affected by mass shootings with financial compensation. The city is preparing to spend millions of dollars to build a memorial park in honor of the 5/31 victims, while some relatives say they still need help dealing with the trauma. Despite myriad loose ends 48 months later, Leonard and her brother, Matt Gayle, are hopeful they will eventually find closure. The first step is coming together, Leonard said. ___ Moment of silence Family members of the deceased formally bonded together in January, calling themselves Virginia Beach 5/31 Families United. They decided to hold their own candlelight vigil and moment of silence for the first time this year, separate from a city vigil also taking place Wednesday. It will begin at 3 p.m. next to the King Neptune statue on 31st Street at the Oceanfront. A moment of silence will be held at 4:06 p.m., when the first 911 call from the shooting at the municipal center came in. Leonard, one of the planners, described it as a healing event to raise awareness that weve been undersupported for so long. Planning began around May 1 when the city hadnt yet announced its plans to commemorate 5/31, Leonard said. At 31st Street, some of the family members of the 12 victims will speak and release a dove in honor of their loved one. Leonard and others will also attend the citys vigil at 8 p.m. at City Hall. Leonards mother worked as a legal secretary for the city for 24 years. She was a leader for the International Right of Way Association and was going to receive an award before her death in 2019. Her daughter plans to ring the bell her mother used to conclude association meetings at the end of the service. Leonard hopes some of her mothers work family will attend, but she knows how hard it will be for many of them. At the end of the day it doesnt matter how many people show up, Leonard said. I know in my heart were going to make a difference. ___ Legislation and compensation After a tragedy, communities often rally together to help survivors and victims families but that support tends to taper off long before wounds heal. A new source of long-term assistance, however, could soon be available in Virginia: Gov. Glenn Youngkin proposed a budget amendment this year that would allot $10 million to create the Virginia Mass Violence Care Fund. Its still being considered and its got a very good chance of happening, Del. Barry Knight, chair of the House Appropriations Committee, said this week. I think we have a better than 90% chance of getting it through. Knight, R-Virginia Beach, is one of three legislators leading budget negotiations, which take place largely behind closed doors. Virginia passed a two-year budget last year, but legislators are currently weighing a series of amendments. The fund would be self-sustaining; the $10 million would be conservatively invested and the money it brings in would support those impacted by mass violence with their long term physical and mental health needs. It could assist survivors of the Virginia Beach mass shooting and other future massacres. The Virginia Beach Mass Shooting Commission has urged the General Assembly since last year to create the fund. Del. Kelly Convirs-Fowler, D-Virginia Beach, and Sen. Chap Petersen, D-Fairfax, proposed budget amendments in 2022 that would provide the $10 million, but neither were included in the final budget. David Cariens, a commission member, said it was discouraging when the money wasnt approved in 2022. Explaining hes spoken to survivors who still suffer from severe PTSD, Cariens said long term support is crucial. Some people can be downright cruel and say, well its been a year now they need to move on, but you cannot say that, Cariens said Tuesday. Everybody comes to terms with the loss they suffered or what they saw or went through differently. You cannot put a timeline on it. If approved, any aid distributed to Virginia Beach survivors would come in addition to compensation paid out by the city and donations distributed to surviving victims and family members. The city said in January it has provided a combined $1.5 million in workers compensation benefits to the estates of the 11 city employees who were killed and a combined $5.3 million to the six employees who were injured in the shooting. More than $4.5 million in community donations has also been distributed to victims families and survivors. The families are hoping the state legislators create the fund this year. Its never too late to do the right thing, said Matt Gayle. Leonard, who lives in the Blacksburg area, said shes connected with some of the families of the 2007 Virginia Tech mass shooting. Those families and survivors received a settlement from the state, and theyve encouraged her to fight for the same, she said. ___ VB Strong Center The VB Strong Center, a partnership between Sentara Healthcare and the city, will remain open at Landstown Commons through 2024. A federal Justice Department grant which has been funding the center since 2019 was extended this year. Its goal has been to provide free mental health counseling for those impacted by the massacre, including shooting survivors, employees, victims families, and first responders. Three people work at the center including two licensed mental health professionals and one administrator. The center coordinates additional specialized services with local providers and offers support group meetings, seminars and activities including sewing classes and yoga sessions. More than 1,000 individuals have received information or supportive resources since the center opened, according to a spokesperson. Approximately 530 people have accessed individual, group, or department based programming, in-person or virtual classes, received advocacy support, case management, community resources, and/or financial support. The center offers a survey to attendees to gather feedback on whether the programs are helpful. Leonard said she informally polled family members through a survivors group on social media about the centers effectiveness and didnt receive any responses, while noting that many people live out of town. Shes still not convinced its making enough of an impact. Being invited to group yoga doesnt begin to scratch the surface, she said. ___ Memorial park In April, the City Council approved the May 31, 2019, mass shooting memorial site and allocated $1.2 million for the design. The money will come from vacancy savings in the general fund. It will be built on 1.3 acres of city land at the corner of Princess Anne Road and Nimmo Parkway, across the street from the municipal complex. The cost of constructing the memorial will be determined after the design is completed, and funding could include a combination of private money and public dollars, according to the city. Dills Architects has estimated the total cost will be $5.8 million. The 5/31 Memorial Committee, which was created in 2020, recommended the site and developed the design criteria through engagement with victims families, survivors, first responders and other community members. The city hired a third-party consultant to facilitate the process. Jason Nixon, who lost his wife, Kate, in the mass shooting, served on the committee. Hes been an advocate for creating a space where his family and others can visit and contemplate. Matt Gayle said he supports the idea of a memorial park, but he cant fully appreciate it at this time. Im not there yet, Gayle said. Its hard for me to prioritize memorial building while theres still so pain and suffering. ___ Questions about investigation Late last year, a potential piece of evidence was discovered that raised new concerns about the thoroughness of the investigation in aftermath of the shooting. A laptop was found in the home of the shooter by a woman who obtained possession of the gunmans condo in a wrongful death lawsuit. Although the authenticity of the laptop has not been confirmed, its existence ignited a frenzy among the victims families, who question whether a piece of evidence was missed by investigators. The laptop was turned over to Convirs-Fowler, who previously said she gave the device to her attorney who planned to send it to the U.S. Department of Justice. The Virginia Beach Police Department does not have a copy of the laptop and has not examined it, according to a police spokesperson. On Tuesday, Convirs-Fowler declined to comment on the laptops current whereabouts. But she said she supplied a copy of its contents to the mass shooting commission a few weeks ago. At the mass shooting commissions meeting earlier this month, Cariens announced that Convirs-Fowler had sent him a copy of the hard drive. Cariens told The Pilot Tuesday he has been unable to access its content. But he said his son is a computer specialist and will assist him later this month. Cariens said the laptop raises many questions. Where was it? Who had it? Has it been tampered with and has information been removed from it? he said. At the commission meeting, Commission Chairman Ryant Washington said the authenticity of the content on the hard drive would need to be determined by another entity before the commission could consider it. Attorney General Jason Miyares previously said his office could help verify the laptop and review its contents. In a statement Tuesday, Miyares said his office had not received it but that the offer still stands. May 31st changed Virginia Beach forever, and the impact on our community cannot be overstated, he said. The City of Heroes saw the face of evil, and my earnest hope is that all elected officials will continue to work towards truth and healing. ___ City remembrance events To mark the shooting anniversary, Virginia Beach is encouraging people on Wednesday to wear blue, the color of remembrance. Departments previously located in Building 2 Planning, Public Utilities, Public Works and Information Technology will close at 3 p.m. A moment of silence will be observed at at 4:06 p.m., the time the first 911 call was received. Individuals are asked to pause wherever they are at that time. The Year Four Remembrance Ceremony will begin at 8 p.m. in front of City Hall, 2401 Courthouse Drive. Candles will be provided; however, seating will not be available. Stacy Parker, 757-222-5125, stacy.parker@pilotonline.com Katie King, katie.king@virginiamedia.com James (Jim) T. Tackes of Missoula, Montana passed away of coronary artery disease at his home on May 9, 2023. He was born on April 18, 1932 in Great Falls, Montana during the Great Depression. He was the youngest child of nine children born to pioneers Joseph and Katherine (Keller) Tackes, who were homesteading near Power, Montana. Jim grew up and attended a one-room schoolhouse in Power and graduated as class Valedictorian from Power High School in 1950. He believed that the basic values he was given as a child growing up in a poor farm family guided decisions he made throughout his life. He said these values included a strong desire to help others by using his knowledge, skills, and talents; knowing the difference between wants and needs; getting by without having the best of everything; to not be wasteful; respect my parents; dont take the things that are not mine. Jim graduated with honors in 1954 from Carroll College in Helena, Montana where he completed undergraduate degrees in philosophy, education, and history. From the Helena Diocese he then entered St Thomas Seminary in Denver, Colorado, where he received a Masters degree in Theology. He was ordained a Catholic priest by Bishop Gilmore at the Immaculate Conception Church in Butte on May 31, 1958, and celebrated his first mass at Guardian Angels Church in Power, Montana on June 2, 1958. His pastoral assignments included Little Flower Parish on the Blackfeet Reservation in Browning, Montana; Holy Rosary Parish in Bozeman, Montana; St. Rose Parish in Dillon, Montana. In 1963, Jim established a mission in the Mayan village of Santo Tomas, Guatemala, under the mentorship of Bishop Raymond Hunthausen. During the four years he ministered as a priest at the mission, he also served as a general contractor and built a residence for staff and volunteers as well as a clinic to tend to the needs of the villagers. Years later, in 2008 and 2016, along with students and parishioners on pilgrimage and his daughter (in 2016), he returned to the mission and was welcomed and remembered for all he had done for the community. To this day the mission is still active and continues to serve the Mayan people. Upon receiving permission from Rome in 1969, Jim resigned from the active priesthood; later that year he married Pat Sheehan. They moved to Minneapolis where Jim worked for 5 years as Executive Director for the Minnesota Association for Retarded Citizens. During that time, in 1972, he and Pat adopted Lori Ann. To be near Jims aging parents, the family then moved to Browning, Montana where he worked as a special education teacher in the local grammar and high schools. In the 4 years he lived in Browning he established and managed a Radio Shack as well as, along with community members, formed a nonprofit corporation for developmentally challenged adults. Several years later when the family relocated to Libby, Montana, this work experience procured him a position as Executive Director for Achievements, Inc., a nonprofit organization serving adults with developmental disabilities, a position he held for 20 years. During that time in Libby, he also built a log home for the family, planted and sold fir trees for Christmas. Upon his retirement in 1997, Jim volunteered his construction skills for Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit corporation that builds affordable family homes, and participated in construction of Habitats first house in Libby. He once stated, My basic philosophy was if people were hungry and they didnt have a place to live, it was very difficult to talk to them about God. After Pat passed away in 2000, he married Loris birth mother, Rosemary Hosie, that same year. He designed and built their home in Florence, Montana, where they lived until Rosemarys death in 2014. They were active in the Catholic Church, working for reform by establishing Concerned Catholics of Montana. Jim always enjoyed using his wide range of talents, including management, carpentry, handyman, builder and engineer skills, and served as a spiritual director. He was an avid hiker and mountain climber, an accomplished artist in drawing, woodwork, furniture construction, and stained glass. In 2017, at age 84 he wrote and published a book entitled Jims Story. At the end of it he states: I wrote this book in hopes that this story may continue to help others live a richer life in service to others. In 2016, he met Linda Plamondon at a Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVM) associate retreat in Dubuque, Iowa. They were married in August 2018 and established their residence in Missoula. Jim continued to be open to new possibilities as he traveled with Linda throughout the United States while continuing to share his knowledge, skills, and talents with others. Jim was a long time associate member of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Dubuque, Iowa), member of Christ the King Parish (Missoula, Montana), the Missoula Senior Forum, the Friendship Force of Missoula with whom in he traveled to New Zealand in 2017. Jims kind, wise, gentle, and creative spirit will be greatly missed by family, friends, and all who came in contact with him over his lifetime. He is survived by his wife, Linda (Parsons) Plamondon, daughter Lori Ann (Tackes) Gavin and son-in-law Vince Gavin, sister Helen (Tackes) Paulson, numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and godchildren. He was predeceased by his spouses Pat (Sheehan) Tackes and Rosemary (Hosie) Tackes, his parents Joe and Katie Tackes, and siblings Michael, Joseph, Louis, Jerome, Kern Tackes, Marcella Tackes, and Clara (Tackes) Perrier. Evening vigil prayer service and sharing will take place at Christ the King Catholic Church in Missoula, Montana on Tuesday, May 30 at 7:00 pm. . A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at Christ the King Catholic Church in Missoula at 11:00 am Wednesday, May 31, 2023, the 65th anniversary of Jims ordination. Memorial donations may be made in memory of Jim Tackes to the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Hunger Fund) 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa 52003-7991 (www.bvmsisters.org or 663-588-2351), or Partners in Home Care (Hospice) Missoula County www.partnersinhomecare.org (406-728-8848). A Cheshire agricultural estate consisting of 2,000 acres let on a mixture of Agricultural Holdings Act and Farm Business Tenancies is now for sale. The Alpraham Estate, surrounding the village of Alpraham, is being offered for sale by Bidwells on behalf of the Wellcome Trust as a whole or in 11 lots. The whole lot is being sold for a guide price of 26.6m and the current annual income is 320,000. Bidwells says it represents a 'rare opportunity' to purchase a prime agricultural investment estate with strong potential for capital growth. The estate offers an extensive area of prime farmland for dairy production, let on a mixture of Agricultural Holdings Act and Farm Business Tenancies (FBTs). James Wood, partner at Bidwells, said the sale would appeal to both farmers and landowner investors. He said: "Included in the sale are four principal let holdings, three under Agricultural Holdings Act tenancies and one under a fixed term Farm Business Tenancy. "All are fully equipped with substantial farmhouses and farm buildings occupied by tenants with longstanding relationships with the current and previous owners of the estate." Alongside this are a series of further FBTs on varying fixed terms, covering some of the most productive land on the estate. Two further farmyards with farmhouses and traditional farmyards are offered for sale with the benefit of vacant possession and development potential, subject to planning. The sale also includes let cottages and a racehorse training yard with farmhouse, stables and paddocks. "This is an opportunity to acquire a very secure investment with limited downside risk in a hugely desirable location in the northwest," Mr Wood said. "The range of property type and tenure provides scope to unlock the reversionary premium through asset management. "The added potential to realise latent value through the pursuit of planning approvals, provides an overall attractive proposition to the market. " The Alpraham Estate is offered for sale as a whole or in lots at a guide price of 26,600,000 for the whole. The current annual income is in the region of 320,000 and is received from agricultural, commercial and residential occupiers. Concerns have been raised over the recent discovery of a new 'jump' of African swine fever in mainland Europe, as the risk of the virus entering the UK remains 'high'. African swine fever (ASF) was confirmed on a domestic pig farm and in four wild boar in a newly-affected region of southern Italy, in Calabria. This is the third region of the country to be affected since the first incursion in January 2022, after Piedmonte and Lazio. Responding to the outbreak, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has issued a reminder that the risk of the virus entering the UK via human-mediated is 'high'. In its latest update on ASF in Europe, APHA said: The recent detection of four cases of ASF in wild boar in the Calabria region in southern Italy is concerning. "One case was found over 10km away from the five others, and could indicate that the disease is present and widespread in the region. It is currently unclear whether there is an epidemiological link to other affected areas within Italy, or if this is a new incursion from outside the country." The latest cases in Italy represent a new jump in disease distribution, which is the sixth such event in Europe since January 2022, with the last jump being into western Germany in July 2022. APHA said this was 'concerning' for the UK pig sector, adding "it would appear that these cases have arisen as a result of the movement of infected pigs or wild boar." It is suspected that disease has been introduced via human-mediated routes, since there is a major road trade route through the area. Given the above, we consider that the risk of entry of ASF virus in live animals and products of animal origin from affected countries, remains at medium, APHA added. The agency also described the potential high risk for non-commercial imports of pork products from ASF affected areas as of "high concern". It follows recent research by the AHDB which warned that disease outbreaks were currently costing the British pig industry over 850 million a year. This figure represents more than two times the approximate value of the industry. And earlier this year, Red Tractor warned that the UK would be 'devastated' if African ASF were to reach its shores. The chair of the pig sector of Red Tractor, Stewart Houston urged farmers to take action to help keep the deadly pig disease out of the country. The National Pig Association (NPA) has frequently said: ASF is a notifiable disease which not only would severely compromise the health and welfare of pigs and can potentially devastate businesses up and down the country, it would also have huge implications for our ability to export pigmeat, which is important for carcase balance." A Hampshire famer has warned that further restrictions on migrant workers coming to the UK could prove devastating for the farming industry. It comes after the government announced that UK net migration had hit a record high of 606,600 in 2022. The increase was mainly from people arriving from non-EU countries on government-issued visas to study, work or join family members. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has admitted that net migration was "too high", but batted away suggestions it was out of control. But since Brexit, the number of people who come to the UK and work on farms has fallen, making recruitment far more difficult. The industry - heavily reliant on migrant labour - warns that it is also suffering as a consequence of the pandemic. Soaring energy and fertiliser costs have only added to the pressure, which resulted in 60m of fruit and vegetables being wasted in the UK in the first half of 2022 alone. Graham Collett, who owns a Hampshire farm and Westlands Farm Shop, said that if new restrictions were to be introduced, it could create significant difficulties for farmers. The international workforce is essential to businesses like Mr Collett's, as they rely on migrant workers to support them during peak times. The British workforce is too thin on the ground to cover the sheer number of people needed in the farming and food industry," he explained. Brits are not best suited to manual labour because we have not had a labour economy in the UK for several generations now. "We havent raised, educated or trained manual labour workers and so we must rely on migrant workers to help us out." He added that many British people looked for permanent jobs, and therefore seasonal work was not favoured by them. "This is another reason why it is so important we must be able to recruit international workers to help us all year round, but particularly during peak times. Westlands Farm Shop harvests over 15 tonnes of soft fruit per week during the spring and summer season. Its farm shop team consists of 18 local people and 25 international workers from countries such as Ukraine and Kyrgyzstan. Mr Collett continued: Without international people arriving to work on farms across the UK, the farming and food system would collapse. "It is critical that people realise this and separate legitimate forms of work from other immigration issues that are happening throughout the country. The summer travel season that gets underway Memorial Day weekend promises to be one of the most challenging ever. As transportation patterns return to pre-pandemic levels, millions of Americans will face the familiar miles-long traffic jams and labyrinthine airport security lines. Following last summers chaos in the skies, with nearly 45,000 flights canceled and over 400,000 delayed, transportation experts are urging calm as travelers prepare for a summer of frustration and frayed nerves. As the worlds wealthiest nation, we can do so much better. If we had a nationwide high-speed rail network, holiday travel would be enjoyable. Instead of driving or flying, you could hop on a high-speed train, zoom across your region with great ease, comfort and peace of mind, and arrive right on time. Not to mention that it would cost less than flying. Americas holiday travel quagmire is a reminder that we are a global laggard when it comes to high-speed rail. In 26 nations across the world, including in emerging economies such as Morocco, high-speed trains collectively carry billions of passengers every year. Meanwhile, the Chinese have built 26,000 miles of high-speed rail since the mid-2000s, and they are just getting started. Americas fly-and-drive status quo is reaching its breaking point. Our highways are full and building more of them will not fix the problem of ever-increasing congestion. Widening and building new highways draws ever more cars onto the road, creating a vicious cycle of never-ending road building. As air travel grows, the aviation system, too, is hitting its limits. Communities understandably resist siting major airports in their neighborhoods; we havent built a major airport in 28 years. These low-capacity transportation modes are exceeding their carrying capacity and costing us dearly. Congestion slashed economic growth by $179 billion in 2017 and is expected to cost us $237 billion annually by 2025 according to a 2019 report from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. We must build an electrified, balanced transportation system fit for the 21st century. With robust federal support, we could see the first high-speed trains running in America within the next few years. Thats why the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which includes $66 billion in funding for passenger rail, presents a unique opportunity to ignite Americas high-speed rail revolution. Two projects are moving steadily toward the finish line. Brightline West, a private high-speed rail project running 218 miles between Las Vegas and southern California, is expected to break ground soon. A bipartisan congressional group has written a letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in support of federal funding for Brightline West. If funding is provided, the line is projected to be up and running before the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. It is expected to run at speeds up to 200 mph and shift 3 million vehicle trips every year to the electrified train. Meanwhile, Californias High-Speed Rail project is working toward completion of the first 171-mile operating system (out of the total 500-mile-long project) in the fastest growing region of the state by 2030. The worlds first solar-powered bullet train has fresh momentum following California legislative approval last year of $4.2 billion to continue construction in the states Central Valley. Again, federal investments are needed to bring this promising line to completion. Fortunately, high-speed rail is a Biden administration priority, with Buttigieg telling Congress he plans to use funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to demonstrate high-speed rail in two or three geographies. I just dont know why people in other countries ought to have better train service and more investment in high-speed train service than Americans do, Buttigieg said. Secretary Buttigieg is right. And as they languished in traffic jams and crowded airports over Memorial Day weekend, Americans had plenty of time to reflect on how much they deserve and need high-speed rail. Ray LaHood is a former U.S. secretary of transportation and Illinois congressman, and a co-chair of the U.S. High Speed Rail Coalition. He wrote this for the Chicago Tribune. Aliens could be hiding on one of Saturn's moons. Aliens could be present on Saturn's moon Enceladus NASA's powerful James Webb telescope has spotted a "surprisingly large" plume of water coming from the gas giant's sixth-largest moon Enceladus. Scientists say that the plume spans for over 6,000 miles and is equivalent to the distance between Los Angeles and Buenos Aires. Saturn has more than 100 known moons but Enceladus is the only one comparable to Earth as it has a liquid water ocean and experts are convinced that it could be home to a form of extraterrestrial life. Geronimo Villanueva, from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland, said: "When I was looking at the data, at first, I was thinking I had to be wrong. "It was just so shocking to detect a water plume more than 20 times the size of the moon." A key Kremlin figure has warned that British government officials are "legitimate" military targets for Russia. Dmitry Medvedev has issued a threat to the UK government The former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev, a key ally of Vladimir Putin, issued the warning after the UK's Foreign Secretary James Cleverly supported Ukraine's attempts to strike targets inside Russia. Medvedev, who sits on the Kremlin's Security Council, tweeted in English: "Today, the UK acts as Ukraine's ally providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto is leading an undeclared war against Russia. "That being the case, any of its public officials (either, military, or civil, who facilitate the war) can be considered as a legitimate military target." Medvedev even went on to name-check Cleverly in his tirade against British officials. He said: "The UK's Foreign Secretary Cleverly has stated that Ukraine has the legitimate right to... project force beyond its borders to undermine Russia's ability to project force into Ukraine itself. "According to him, legitimate military targets beyond Ukraine's border are part of its self-defence." Medvedev is thought to be angling for a return to power in the event that Putin is forced out by failing in the war or ill health and issued fear-mongering language to Britain for its interventions in the Ukraine conflict. He said: "The goofy officials of the UK, our eternal enemy, should remember that within the framework of the universally accepted international law which regulates modern warfare, including the Hague and Geneva Conventions with their additional protocols, their state can also be qualified as being at war." Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of trying to "frighten" Russians with a series of drone strikes. Vladimir Putin has pointed an accusatory finger at Ukraine Several buildings in the suburbs of Moscow were damaged in an attack that has been blamed on Kyiv and Putin hit out at Ukraine for trying to generate fear, seemingly oblivious to the fact that his forces have bombarded the nation with airstrikes since launching the invasion 15 months ago. Putin suggested that the attack was in revenge for earlier Russian strikes on "command centres", which actually hit residential buildings in Kyiv and caused residents to flee for their lives to bomb shelters. The Russian president said: "We have spoken about hitting command centres (in Ukraine). In response, the Kyiv regime has chosen a different path, the path of trying to frighten Russia, frighten the citizens of Russia, and of strikes on residential buildings." The despot's cronies at Russia's foreign ministry made similar comments and suggested that Western support for Ukraine was "pushing" the nation towards "increasingly reckless" tactics. It said: "Western support for the Kyiv regime is pushing the Ukrainian leadership towards increasingly reckless acts, including terrorism." A ranting Putin also said that the drone attack shows that there is "some work to do" on Moscow's air defences as he showed signs of frustration towards the nation's troops. He said on Russian TV: "Moscow's air defence system worked normally, satisfactorily, although there is some work to do." Damon Lindelof says allegations of racism and toxicity on the set of ABC's 'Lost' "breaks my heart". Damon Lindelof addresses claims of racism and toxic atmosphere on 'Lost' set In a new book, several sources claimed that co-creator Lindelof fired Harold Perrineau - who played Michael Dawson in three seasons - after he called him "racist" and the showrunner has responded to the allegations. In an excerpt of 'Burn It Down: Power, Complicity, And A Call For Change In Hollywood' by TV critic Maureen Ryan, which has been obtained by Vanity Fair, a number of actors and writers on the show, including Perrineau, shared their encounters of racism on the set. However, speaking to the book's writer last year, Lindelof insisted he has no memory of letting Perrineau go because he accused him of being racist. He told her: "What can I say? Other than it breaks my heart that that was Harold's experience. "And I'll just cede that the events that you're describing happened 17 years ago, and I don't know why anybody would make that up about me." According to the tome, Jack (Matthew Fox), Kate (Evangeline Lilly), Sawyer (Josh Holloway), and Locke (Terry O'Quinn), who are white, were told they were the "hero characters". Perrineau said: "It became pretty clear that I was the Black guy. Daniel [Dae Kim] was the Asian guy. And then you had Jack and Kate and Sawyer." One of Perrineau's issues was that in a season two episode, he felt there was "the narrative that nobody cares about Black boys, even Black fathers." The episode in question was when his character's son Walt is kidnapped, and he requested that his character had more lines. Perrineau recalled: "I felt like suddenly they were mad at me." And he claims that just weeks before the end of series two Lindelof and executive producer Carlton Cuse said he was welcome to leave because they "don't have anything good" for him. He recalled: "I was f***** up about it. I was like, 'Oh, I just got fired, I think.' "I was like, 'Wait a minute, what's happening?' "Well, you know, you said to us, if we don't have anything good for you, you want to go." Lindelof did admit to having "had deep and profound regrets" about the show's dealings with the cast members of colour - two decades after the show aired. He said: "Harold was completely and totally right to point that out." Lindelof said Perrineau "was legitimately and professionally conveying concerns about his character and how significant it was that Michael and Walt with the exception of Rose were really the only Black characters on the show." Lindelof admitted to failings to create a safe space for the cast and crew. One staffer described the atmosphere as "nakedly hostile". In response, Lindelof admitted to being "oblivious" to the toxicity of the set. He told Ryan: "Would it shock you to learn or believe that, despite the fact that I completely and totally validate your word cloud, that I was oblivious, largely oblivious, to the adverse impacts that I was having on others in that writers room during the entire time that the show was happening?" He also said: "It's not for me to say what kind of person I am. "But I will say thisI would trade every person who told you that I was talentedI would rather they said I was untalented but decent, rather than a talented monster." Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Fi Paziana was an investment banker based in Milan. Although successful, her dream was to pursue her love of fashion full time. Shed worked in the industry before and had even designed clothes for royalty, but hadnt found the right opportunity to launch her brand. Fi Paziana's healthy clothes Everything changed on July 12st 2022. Fi posted a video to her TikTok channel asking for inspiration. Shed been working hard developing a smart fabric that supported vitamin D absorption, but needed a nudge in the right direction with how to deploy it. The response was overwhelmingly positive. Her clip went viral and she was left in no doubt as to what to do next. But how did she get there in the first place? Research indicates that at least a billion people suffer from a variety of health problems linked to insufficient vitamin D, be that from lack of sunlight or - perhaps counterintuitively - too much fear of sunlight. Women of South Asian heritage, even those living in sunny climates, are the worst affected and often, its because the clothes they wear can prevent them from absorbing sufficient vitamin D. Fi had been working tirelessly to develop a fabric that was luxurious, comfortable, strong but that also allowed for vitamin D to be absorbed. And with her new found feedback, she now knew how to put her fabric to work; with a range of modest wear under the brand name Vylet. She explains: Vylet allows women to completely cover up but at the same time will filter the sunlight to allow the UVB rays responsible for Vitamin D production to pass through. The contact of these UVB rays to the skin interact with a protein called 7-DHC, converting it into vitamin D3, the active form of vitamin D. My father is a doctor, a bone specialist who has been studying the effect of bone metabolism for over 30 years. He was the first to tell me that there were problems in specific populations. That was my first breakthrough. The second was a very special person who convinced me that I shouldnt be scared and that I should put myself out there and see what kind of response I would get. So on that advice, Fi summoned the power of social media, asking her wonderful and ever-growing community for their take on every element of the clothing - colour and texture to design and cut. Her channel now has millions of views. It all started on TikTok. This fabric is unique. With the right support, I believe it has the power to really change lives. says this inspirational entrepreneur. Fi says she is on a mission to free women, allowing them to wear what they want without sacrificing their bodys ability to absorb vitamin D. She also to celebrate the grace, strength and sophistication that modest fashion gives its wearers. Discover her newly launched capsule collection at https://www.fimilano.com/ Nothing compares to the adrenaline rush-inducing experience of watching a good ol' action movie. Especially if said action movie features the treasure that is Keanu Reeves. For every iconic action sequence, there is a Keanu flick that put it on the map. From Neo in The Matrix films to John Wick in the exhilarating John Wick instalments, he has time and again reinvented himself as the go-to assassin, the rookie cop and the occasional undercover FBI agent. His charm and his physicality make him the perfect addition to high-octane action movies. Its a gift that keeps giving.While we can go on about the cultural significance of the actor, here are some of Keanu Reeves' best action movies:In the first The Matrix film, Keanu Reeves' Thomas Anderson/Neo gloriously dodges bullets and the action genre hasn't been the same since. The Wachowski's sci-fi epic about a man who realises that what the human race believes to be the real world is a simulation created by machines while their actual bodies are mere batteries is a classic. It features some of the finest action sequences that would earn an iconic stature over the years. The film has Keanu bringing his A-game in wonderfully choreographed martial arts sequences. This is also the action movie that put gun fu - a combination of hand-to-hand combat and gunfights, on the map. The Matrix is arguably one of Hollywood's best action movies of all time and a lot of the credit goes to its lead star.Point Break isn't just a great Keanu Reeves movie, it is also one of the best action thrillers out there. The film, which was released almost three decades ago, revolves around an undercover FBI agent in California. Reeves' Johnny Utah goes on the field to investigate a group of pro surfers suspected of heists. The film also starred Patrick Swazye and the camaraderie between the two became the talking point of the film. Over the years, Keanu has aced the art of playing the mysterious, charming yet rough around the edges persona and one can say that it all started with this movie. Moreover, it sees the actor on a surfboard. Need we say more?Keanu Reeves can always save the day and Speed - one of the best Hollywood action movies to come out of the '90s, is proof. The film sees him play Jack Traven, a cop tasked with saving himself and the passengers on a bus with a bomb that will go off if the vehicle goes under 50 mph. The tension in this film doesn't let up for the entirety of its runtime and it's a remarkable triumph in action choreography. Reeves' act is supported by Sandra Bullock who came in and turned it into a two-hander that elevated the film. With its high-speed set pieces and high-stakes storytelling, the film is a well-rounded hit in the actor's filmography.The Matrix Reloaded was a worthy sequel of The Matrix, if not as groundbreaking as the original. The film doubles down on the action and it's a thrilling ride with several notable action sequences. Who can forget the epic chateau fight scene with Keanu single-handedly (literally) holding off a barrage of bullets in the air? Or the one with the Agent Smith clones? Or the freeway chase? The film sees Reeves' Neo use his powers for good and it helps that he looked great doing it.The petition for another Constantine movie featuring Keanu as John Constantine never lost steam. And the best part is that Reeves himself wants to reprise his role. Based on a popular DC comic book series, the 2005 film saw him play an exorcist with the power to see angels and demons. The plot is basically a trench-coat-wearing Keanu kicking demonic ass and that has to be some kind of pop culture renaissance.John Wick marked an interesting culmination point for Keanu Reeves. The neo-noir action thriller has the actor playing an ex-hitman who is forced back into action as he sets out to avenge the death of his puppy. John Wick saw him do what he does best - play the lone wolf action hero and the world is a better place for it. Fans fell back in love with Keanu and they came back for more when the franchise expanded, as we can see over four action-filled instalments.The John Wick movies really kept getting better. Keanu Reeves outdid himself with the recently released John Wick: Chapter 4. The film had a fight scene at a techno rave party, a seemingly never-ending flight sequence at a stairway and some great sword fight moments. Wick got thrown off from heights, off cars and down the aforementioned stairs and it just kept going. Chapter 4 was perhaps the most satisfying ending to a franchise and a perfect send-off for the now-iconic character.The Matrix Revolutions suffered the trilogy curse like any other movie franchise out there. Think Spider-Man 3 or The Godfather Part III. The film wasn't the finest offering from the Wachowskis but in the ranking of Keanu movies, it still deserves a mention. The third part saw Reeves' Neo go up against the big bad - Agent Smith to save Zion. There are many cool moments in this movie and one of them has Neo fighting Smith mid-air in the rain.47 Ronin, a film inspired by the Japanese legend of the titular 47 Ronin is a slightly odd addition to Keanu's credits list. In the film, the actor plays Kai, a half-English Samurai who joins a group of samurai who are out to avenge their master's death. While the film was a mix of whimsical visuals, fantasy and folklore, Keanu stole the show with his unique approach. The actor combined his martial arts skill set with his signature mysterious air to create a memorable moment in cinema.Street Kings is an underrated gritty crime thriller and a great Keanu Reeves action movie. In the 2008 flick, Keanu plays a troubled undercover L.A. detective Tom Ludlow. Things take a dark turn for Tom after he is implicated in the execution of a fellow police officer. He then goes up against the system and it opens up a can of worms that has him questioning his career and life. The film had a layered plot and highlighted the widespread corruption within the police department. Keanu is seen peeling off one layer after another, getting confronted with many ugly truths. He battles his way out of all the traps and makes sure the masterminds meet their end. Visitors to the oceanside promenade along the beach in Hollywood, Florida, were soaking in the fleeting sunshine at the end of Memorial Day weekend when a gunman opened fire on Monday. Nine people were injured, including four children one of whom is 1 year old. It is a snapshot of America: a moment of levity and relaxation cut short in an instant by the staccato of gunfire, of people sprawled on the ground, of cries for help and the hope for escape. And it happens in this country on a near daily basis. Hampton Roads knows that anguish all too well. Tuesday marks the fourth anniversary of the mass shooting at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center. Survivors of the May 31, 2019, tragedy will join with victims families Tuesday for a moment of silence in honor of those who died. Everyone across the region is encouraged to participate at 4:06 p.m., the time of the first 911 call for help. The city has also organized a remembrance ceremony to begin at 8 p.m. in front of City Hall at 2401 Courthouse Dr. It is right that we pause, reflect and remember those lost, those injured and those traumatized by the experience. They have suffered these four years, endured unfathomable hardships and grief, and they should know they remain in our thoughts and in our hearts. But we should also set aside time on this awful anniversary to consider whether were doing enough to stop the next mass shooting or to curb the terrible scourge of gun violence that continues to ravage our communities in Hampton Roads. Four years have passed since a city employee opened fire in a parking lot before proceeding into Building 2, where he roamed the halls shooting at his coworkers. Responding law enforcement shot and killed the gunman, but not before his rampage killed 11 Virginia Beach employees and a contractor seeking a permit at the municipal center. The tragedy occurred in Virginia Beach, but shock, horror and grief of this terrible episode werent confined within the citys boundaries. All of Hampton Roads experienced the events of May 31 in some way and the shooting received national attention, leading to an outpouring of sympathy from across the country. That part is important. A mass shooting affects far more than the people present when it happens. It can change the whole tenor of a community, making people more scared, more timid, more guarded and less confident in public the same effects of terrorism. That climate of fear affects mental and physical health, be it through anxiety, depression or other ailments. That is why experts increasingly argue for treating gun violence as a public health crisis as well as addressing it through the criminal justice system. Its not enough to put a shooter behind bars for a few years while never treating the trauma of those affected by violence, from the victims, to the families of those involved, to those who witnessed the act and the wider community. These events change people. They change communities. And those changes can be hard to see at first, can take time to develop and extend well beyond the perpetrator and the victims. Consider, for instance, the toll of all the school shootings since Columbine High School in 1999. The number of children who have witnessed acts of violence, who have endured lockdown drills and live their lives knowing that the easy availability of guns means any classmate could bring one to school. And were surprised by the skyrocketing rate of depression and hopelessness among our youth? It is important that we celebrate the memories of the 12 loved souls lost four years ago, but also that we hold each other up in these difficult moments. The most promising way to do that over the long term is by developing strategies to deal with gun violence as a public health crisis in an effort to blunt its impact and strengthen our communities. Sara Ali Khan Mahakal Temple: Sara Ali Khan has been juggling between multiple projects and has been quite busy lately. Following her remarkable debut at the prestigious 76th Cannes Film Festival, the actress has been fully engaged in promoting her upcoming film, Zara Hatke Zara Bachke. As the release of her film approaches, Sara made a special visit to the ancient Mahakal Temple in Ujjain on Wednesday, seeking divine blessings for the success of her new venture. Known for being an ardent Lord Shiva devotee, a video of Sara praying inside the temple has gone viral. SARA ALI KHAN PRAYS AT UJJAIN'S MAHAKAL TEMPLE Sara Ali Khan visited the famous Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, on May 31. She was seen wearing a simple yet beautiful pink saree and draping the pallu around her head. Several videos and pictures of the actress are doing the rounds on the internet, in which she can be seen offering her obeisance to the deity. In one of the pic, Sara also sat down for meditation. She was also seen interacting with the priests as she offered her prayers. Sara Didi Bewafa Hai: Netizens BRUTALLY Troll Sara Ali Khan For Celebrating CSKs Win Over Shubhman Gills GT SARA ALI KHAN BASHED FOR VISITING MAHAKAL TEMPLE Soon, after Sara's photos went viral on social media, netizens targeted the actress and bashed her for visiting temples just to promote her upcoming movie. While a section of the users felt that she shouldn't have been allowed inside a Hindu temple as she belongs to a different religion. One commented, "It's not Tourist place to allow non-hindus to Mahakaleshwar Mandir." Another user wrote, "Why are Muslims being allowed in Mahakal temple? It is not a tourist place," while one said, "Non Hindus should be banned from entering our temples. That's it . That's the tweet." "I don't know what non-vegetarians people allow to temple," wrote one user. #WATCH | Actress Sara Ali Khan offers prayers at Ujjain's Mahakal temple in Madhya Pradesh pic.twitter.com/qdBYLZlYUK ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) May 31, 2023 Meanwhile, a few also came to Sara's support and said that she respects every religion and that it's her choice. "That's her personal choice, why make a big deal about her," said one user. Another comment read, "Not first off she goes to every Jyotirling .... Just like her mother ... she is a true Mahadev Devotee ... Har Har Mahadev." I Crave Just...: Sara Ali Khan On Aspiring Her Film To Release At Cannes Film Festival Prior to the Mahakal temple, Sara Ali Khan had visited Ajmer Sharif Dargah. Workwise, Sara's next Zara Hatke Zara Bachke is releasing on June 2. Besides, she has three more interesting projects, including Ae Watan Mere Watan, Jagan Shakti's untitled film, and Murder Mubarak. 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. Indulging in thrilling content has never been more alluring, particularly with the highly anticipated releases of Asur 2 and School of Lies. As the highly anticipated releases of Asur 2 and School of Lies draw near, why not embark on an exploration of equally mesmerizing suspense? We've curated a list of the top seven gripping thriller web series and audio series that is guaranteed to keep you craving for more. From nail-biting plot twists to intricate cat-and-mouse games, these series will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions and leave you breathless. Get ready for an enthralling binge sesh and let the suspense unravel before your eyes. Dahaad Dahaad on Prime Video is 'roaring' high with its intense and gripping storyline. This 8-episodic thriller series, starring Sonakshi Sinha, Vijay Varma, Gulshan Devaiah, and Sohum Shah, follows Sub-inspector Anjali Bhaati as she unravels a string of mysterious deaths in public restrooms in Mandawa, Rajasthan. What initially appears to be suicides soon leads to a trail of homicides, hinting at the presence of a cunning serial killer. As the investigation progresses, the plot thickens, raising questions about the truth behind these incidents and the identity of the mastermind behind it all. The cat-and-mouse game that ensues is nothing short of enthralling, leaving you hooked to the edge of your seat. My Husband's Secret In an engaging tale of love, secrets, and suspense, Manisha finds herself at a crossroads in life as she marries Anirudh, a disabled scion of a wealthy family, in what appears to be a compromise. However, as the story unfolds, doubts arise about Anirudh's true nature - is he truly a helpless man or a dangerous killer? Moreover, lurking in the shadows is his identical twin brother, adding an intriguing twist to the narrative. A dead body in the swimming pool, and a mysterious nightly routine, Manisha's world gets more and more complicated with every episode. Will Manisha succeed in finding her husband's secret? Or will the secret engulf her too in the vortex? My Husband's Secret answers that. To find out tune into Pocket FM. Breathe: Into the Shadows Breathe: Into the Shadows on Prime Video is a captivating thriller web series that demands your attention. With stellar performances by Abhishek Bachchan, Amit Sadh, and Nithya Menen, this show keeps you on the edge of your seat. Dr. Avinash Sabharwal, played by Bachchan, experiences every parent's worst nightmare when his daughter is kidnapped by a masked man. The kidnapper's chilling demand forces Avinash into a dangerous game: he must take a life to save his own flesh and blood. The series masterfully weaves together suspense, emotion, and moral dilemmas, leaving you questioning the lengths a father will go to protect his child. With a dark and gritty tone, Breath: Into the Shadows delves deep into the depths of human nature and the choices we make in extreme circumstances. The Fame Game If you're looking for a thrilling ride that explores the dark side of fame and the Bollywood industry, The Fame Game on Netflix is a must-watch. Starring the talented Madhuri Dixit, Sanjay Kapoor, Manav Kaul, Suhasini Mulay, Lakshvir Saran, and Muskkaan Jaferi, this series delves into the complex personal life of a Bollywood actress named Anamika Anand. Anamika's life is far from perfect, as she endures physical and verbal abuse from her husband Nikhil More, while her daughter Amara highlights the nepotism in the industry and her son Avi grapples with his own sexuality. The only solace in her life is Manish Khanna, her frequent co-star, and past lover. When Anamika suddenly goes missing, her personal life is thrust into the spotlight, and the hunt for her and the person behind her disappearance uncovers a web of dark secrets. This captivating series shines a light on the hidden world of the glamorous Bollywood industry, where fame and fortune come at a high price. SID In the heart-wrenching audio series SID on Pocket FM, Virat Agnihotri, a true patriot, finds himself trapped in a conflicting role as a secret agent for the Secret Intelligence Department (S.I.D). Despite his unwavering love for India, Virat's missions require him to go against his own country. As the gripping narrative unfolds, listeners will be captivated by the moral dilemmas, sacrifices, and emotional struggles Virat faces. Will his unwavering patriotism lead him to leave his secret agent life behind, or can he find a way to serve India while navigating the murky world of espionage? Tune in to SID on Pocket FM to delve into this thrilling story of loyalty, sacrifice, and the pursuit of one's ideals. Matsya Kaand Prepare to be enthralled by the riveting web series Matsya Kaand on MX Player. This must-watch thriller takes you on a wild ride with Matsya Thada, a genius conman who is about to meet his match. Played brilliantly by Ravii Dubey, Matsya is a master of disguise, a charmer, and a smooth talker. After a tragic incident involving his family, he finds himself locked up in prison. But his encounter with Anand Pandit (Piyush Mishra), a mentor who imparts wisdom through Mahabharata teachings, changes his life forever. As Matsya embarks on a series of intricate scams, he captures the attention of the ruthless ACP Tejraj Singh (Ravi Kishan), determined to bring him down. What follows is a gripping cat-and-mouse game, punctuated by thrilling cons and unexpected twists. With a stellar ensemble cast including Madhur Mittal, Zoya Afroz, and Raj Sharma, Matsya Kaand weaves an intricate web of suspense, deceit, and unexpected alliances. Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping journey into the world of cons, where nothing is what it seems. The Great Indian Murder Unravel a web of suspense and intrigue with The Great Indian Murder on Disney+Hotstar, a must-watch thriller web series that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Led by the incredible performances of Richa Chadha and Pratik Gandhi, this show brings the acclaimed novel "Six Suspects" by Vikas Swarup to life. When Vicky Rai, a notorious industrialist and the son of a powerful minister, is murdered at a party, it sets off a captivating season-long investigation. As a DCP and a CBI officer join forces to uncover the truth behind the death of the minister's son, the suspects are revealed among the invited and uninvited guests. Directed by the talented Tigmanshu Dhulia, this series boasts a stellar cast including Ashutosh Rana, Raghuvir Yadav, Sharib Hashmi, Paoli Dam, and Shashank Arora. Each episode will keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat as you delve deeper into the lives of the characters and their secrets. Get set for back-to-back suspense and thrills, as on June 1, the chilling saga continues in the highly anticipated second season of crime thriller Asur streaming on JioCinema Then, on June 2, brace yourself for the thrilling web series School of Lies on Disney+Hotstar where a missing boy unravels dark secrets within a boarding school. Seeman's Twitter Account Withheld In India: The official Twitter account of Naam Tamilar Political Party Chief Coordinator Seeman have been withheld. It is reported that few other Twitter accounts of his party members are also blocked. Seeman is working as the chief coordinator of Naam Tamilar Party. He is actively involved in the development of the party by touring all over Tamil Nadu. Also, Seeman, who is firmly stating that he will not form an alliance with Dravidian parties and national parties in Tamil Nadu, is announcing candidates separately in all elections. In Response To A Legal Demand? In this case, Seeman's official witter page has been suddenly withheld today. On that page, it is stated that "SeemanOfficial's account has been withheld in India in response to a legal demand.'' Similarly, the Twitter pages of few other administrators of Naam Tamilar Party such as Idumbavanam Karthi, Pakyarajan, Vicky Bhargav and some others have also been blocked in India. Seeman followers and Naam Tamil party members are shocked by this and they are expressing their opinion on social media pages. In such a situation, Savukku Shankar shared a detailed Tweet about the same on his Twitter page. Savukku Shankar Blames Shankar Jiwal He said, "Chennai City Police Commissioner Shankar Jiwal blocks NTK Chief Seeman's twitter handle 'Seeman Official'. Shankar Jiwal addressed the nodal officer to withhold Seeman's official twitter handle in India under Section 79 of the IT Act which empowers the police to arm twist the intermediary viz. Twitter. Seeman has been tweeting seditiously is the charge made by Shankar Jiwal. Apart from Seeman, more than 30 handles which are critical of the DMK government are requested to be blocked. This includes the handles of Savukku Shankar (@veera284) Saatai Duraimurugan (@Saattaidurai) Highly placed sources say, this move was being done by Shankar Jiwal in collusion with Intelligence Chief Davidson. Shankar Jiwal is functioning like a henchman for the ruling DMK, only with an eye on the HoPF chair which goes vacant by 30 June. Jiwal tried to bury a blatant custodial death and made the CM to lie in the assembly. Jiwal was responsible for huge embarrassment to the government by filing cases against Vikatan, etc. Jiwal increased the cost of construction of Annexe Building inside CoP office, Vepery from 54 crores to 59 crores and caused undue loss to the government. He ignored TN Police Housing Corporation and awarded the tender to a private bidder. The successful bidder sub-contracted the work to a builder who is very close with former Intelligence Chief Jaffar Sait. Both shared the increase in the cost of building. This is the gem, which Stalin is going to make as the Chief of TN Police force." Khatron Ke Khiladi 13 update: Shiv Thakare has been receiving wishes from all the corners ever since it was confirmed that he would showcase his daredevil side in Rohit Shetty's show. Ayesha Singh, who is currently seen in Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin, sent her warm wishes to the Bigg Boss 16 star. AYESHA SINGH'S MESSAGE FOR SHIV THAKARE The TV diva praised Shiv Thakare as she talked about his journey inside the BB 16 house. She said that she is glad to see the Marathi Mulga in the stunt-based show, extending her warm wishes to her. Sharing a message for Shiv Thakare, Ayesha Singh told Telly Reporter, "The first time I saw Bigg Boss was last year. Maine bhi interest liya tha because there was Nimrit, who was seen in Choti Sarrdaarni (same production house) and Sumbul Touqeer Khan. I worked with Sumbul in Ravivaar With Star Parivaar. So, both of them were there and I developed an interest in the show. Mera interest develop hua dono ki wajah se. Jab maine dekha, I found Shiv Thakare to be organic. I am happy that he is there in Khatron Ke Khiladi 13." AYESHA SINGH-AISHWARYA SHARMA HIT UNFOLLOW BUTTON ON INSTAGRAM After Ayesha Singh's interview went viral on the internet, fans started noticing that she and Aishwarya Sharma have unfollowed each other on Instagram. The eagle-eyed fans were quick enough to notice that Ayesha and Aishwarya were no longer following each other on social media. Twitterati shared weird theory, claiming that Ayesha and Aishwarya are no longer following each other because of Shiv Thakare. While Shiv should not be in the mix, the netizens mentioned that Ayesha's interview cause the trouble between the two Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin co-stars. One user tweeted, "i want to know why aishwarya sharma & ayesha singh unfollowed each other in insta" while another wrote, "Did Ayesha and Aishwarya unfollow each other after the former praised Shiv Thakare? I am sure something happened." WHEN AYESHA SINGH REACTED TO RUMOURS OF TIFF WITH AISHWARYA SHARMA Earlier this month, Ayesha Singh opened up about the speculations of not getting along with Neil Bhatt and Aishwarya. She clarified that the trio is busy with the shoot of the show and hence, they don't get time to click pictures or make reels with each other. "You know, people keep asking that but you know but we do not get time together, because we are always shooting apart, Sai and Virat are always apart, or either they are always arguing but there were good moments," Ayesha told Tellychakkar. Mohit Malik New Show: Rajan Shahi is currently among the most successful TV producers who is known for helming many hit shows. After the success of Bidaai, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, and Anupamaa, Shahi is reportedly teaming up with Star Plus once again for a new show. The upcoming daily soap, produced under the banner of Directors Kut, features Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala star Mohit Malik in the lead role. The yet-untitled show marks his comeback in the fiction space after two years after Lockdown Ki Love Story. SRITI JHA NOT DOING RAJAN SHAHI'S SHOW WITH MOHIT MALIK While the fans of Mohit Malik are eagerly awaiting the show, there were rumours that the actor's Khatron Ke Khiladi 12 co-contestant Sriti Jha might play the female lead opposite him. The actress is best known for playing the role of Pragya in ZEE TV's long-running show Kumkum Bhagya. Sumbul Touqeer's Imlie Co-Star Joins Shivangi Joshi & Kushal Tandon In Sony TV's New Show Barsaatein? However, it looks like those were mere rumours and Sriti isn't a part of Rajan Shahi's upcoming show. According to the latest buzz, the makers have approached a popular actress who has featured in a few shows on Colors TV. Amid EXIT Rumours, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai Star Jay Soni Elated With Fans' Response: My Track Is Not... Well, we're talking about Meera Deosthale. The actress is known for playing the protagonists in Colors shows like Udaan and Vidya. Yes, you read that right! MEERA DEOSTHALE OPPOSITE MOHIT MALIK IN STAR PLUS' NEXT? According to an India Forums report, the show is going to revolve around the lives of three sisters and the makers have reached out to Meera for the character of the eldest sister. She has already done a mock shoot but is yet to get confirmed. Revealing the same, a source informed the portal, "Meera has been approached for the character of the eldest sister amongst the three sisters, she has finished her mock shoot and is asked to wait as of now." On the career front, the actress was last seen in Star Bharat's Gud Se Meetha Ishq. Keep watching this space for more updates! Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai Update: Harshad Arora and Pranali Rathod starrer long-running Star Plus show YRKKH is among the most successful shows in the history of Indian Television. Produced by Rajan Shahi's Director's Kut Productions, the family drama premiered in 2009 and currently focuses on the third generation. Even after completing 14 successful years, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is still among the most-watched daily soaps on TV. The show has achieved the huge feat as makers often introduce several interesting twists and turns. The current track revolves around Abhir getting to know that Abhinav (Jay Soni) is not his real father. While the news left him heartbroken, he'll try his best to find his real father in the upcoming episodes. JAY SONI IS NOT LEAVING YEH RISHTA KYA KEHLATA HAI Amid all this, several reports suggested that Abhir will try to reunite Abhimanyu and Akshara after getting to know that he's his father. Rumours were also rife that the character of Abhinav might soon come to an end and Jay Soni is likely to exit Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. Naagin 6: Wondering Why Tejasswi Prakash's Show Got Another Extension? Check SURPRISING Reason Bigg Boss 16 Star Shalin Bhanot Dating THIS Bekaboo Co-Actress In Real Life? Here's The TRUTH However, as reported yesterday, the actor denied the ongoing reports and cleared that he's happily shooting for the show. In a new interview, he called the rumours 'baseless' and stated that he's very happy with the response to Abhinav's character so far. JAY SONI HAPPY WITH RESPONSE TO ABHINAV'S ROLE IN YRKKH Talking about the same, Jay Soni told ETimes, "All this is just speculation. I am so glad that my character Abhinav has received so much love from viewers. I am thankful to the writers that they have written this character so well. My track is not getting over any time now or in the near future. As of now, I am going to be an important part of the show, so people should not fall for these speculations. These rumours are baseless." Well, the actor is indeed doing a great job as Abhinav in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. Don't you agree? Share your views in the comments section below. Keep watching this space for more updates! TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 30, 2023 / Pinetree Capital Ltd. (TSX:PNP) ("Pinetree") and L6 Holdings Inc. ("L6") jointly announce that on May 30, 2023, they each acquired common shares ("Quorum Shares") of Quorum Information Technologies Inc. ("Quorum") on the TSX Venture Exchange. Pinetree acquired 4,000,000 Quorum Shares representing approximately 5.5% of the outstanding Quorum Shares, for consideration of C$0.54 per share and total consideration of C$2,160,000 (the "Pinetree Acquisition"). Immediately before completion of the Pinetree Acquisition, Pinetree beneficially owned 4,000,000 Quorum Shares, representing approximately 5.5% of the outstanding Quorum Shares. Following completion of the Pinetree Acquisition, Pinetree beneficially owns 8,000,000 Quorum Shares, representing approximately 11% of issued and outstanding Quorum Shares. L6 acquired 1,600,000 Quorum Shares representing approximately 2.2% of the outstanding Quorum Shares, for consideration of C$0.54 per share and total consideration of C$864,000 (the "L6 Acquisition"). Immediately before completion of the L6 Acquisition, L6 owned 5,000,000 Quorum Shares, representing approximately 6.8% of the outstanding Quorum Shares. Following completion of the L6 Acquisition, L6 owns 6,600,000 Quorum Shares, representing approximately 9.0% of issued and outstanding Quorum Shares. Each of L6 and Pinetree acted as a joint actor of the other in respect of the L6 Acquisition and the Pinetree Acquisition, respectively. The acquisitions were made on the TSX Venture Exchange. Following the completion of the L6 Acquisition and the Pinetree Acquisition, L6 and Pinetree together beneficially own 14,600,000 Quorum Shares, representing approximately 19.9% of issued and outstanding Quorum Shares. Each of the Pinetree Acquisition and the L6 Acquisition was completed for investment purposes. Each of Pinetree and L6 may increase or decrease their respective investments in the securities of Quorum depending on their respective evaluation of Quorum's business, prospects and financial condition, the market for Quorum's securities, general economic and tax conditions and other factors. A copy of the early warning report filed by Pinetree and L6 in connection with the foregoing is available on SEDAR. A copy may also be obtained from John Bouffard at (416) 941-9600 ext. 200. L6 Holdings and Pinetree's head offices are located at 49 Leuty Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4E 2R2. Quorum's head office is 7500 Macleod Trail SE, Suite 200, Calgary, Alberta, T2H 0L9. For further information: John Bouffard Chief Financial Officer 416-941-9600 x 200 jbouffard@pinetreecapital.com www.pinetreecapital.com SOURCE: Pinetree Capital Ltd. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758175/Pinetree-Capital-Ltd-and-L6-Holdings-Inc-Acquire-Common-Shares-of-Quorum-Information-Technologies-Inc SEOUL, South Korea, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- P&C Solution is set to launch its product, METALENSE, at the Augmented World Expo (AWE USA 2023), marking its debut in the North American market. The expo is scheduled to take place in Santa Clara, California, USA from the 1st of June to the 2nd of June. AWE, the world's largest virtual technology exhibition, brings together top professionals from the AR, VR and XR markets to exchange cutting-edge development trends and knowledge. Approximately 225 global companies are expected to participate in this year's expo. P&C Solution, which has been involved in AWE USA since 2021, is confident that this event will generate positive outcomes, with meetings planned with a number of other global companies. In South Korea, P&C Solution's AR Glasses, METALENSE, received a Prime Minister's Award, while internationally, the company was recognized with an Innovation Award at CES 2023. The company plans to introduce METALENSE and an improved advanced remote assistance solution at AWE USA 2023. P&C Solution's new remote assistance solution has been developed in collaboration with a European solution development firm. Enhancing multi-party remote communication based on augmented reality (AR), their solution can share effortlessly large files of up to 100MB. An official from P&C Solution stated, "Both METALENSE and our improved remote collaboration solution can be implemented quickly and reliably in a number of industries, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and education, offering infinite possibilities for use." P&C Solution also stated, "By showcasing METALENSE during business meetings aimed at collaboration with global companies at AWE 2023, P&C Solution is making significant strides towards success in the North American market." P&C Solution's booth is placed in Hall A #519. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2087974/Image1.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/pc-solution-unveils-remote-assistance-solutions-at-awe-usa-2023-participating-for-the-third-consecutive-year-301836913.html CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - The Australian dollar weakened against other major currencies in the Asian session on Wednesday. The Australian dollar fell to nearly a 7-month low of 0.6489 against the U.S. dollar, a 2-week low of 90.74 against the yen and a 5-day low of 1.6508 against the euro, from yesterday's closing quotes of 0.6517, 91.10 and 1.6464, respectively. Against the Canadian dollar, the aussie edged down to 0.8849 from yesterday's closing value of 0.8859. If the aussie extends its downtrend, it is likely to find support around 0.64 against the greenback, 88.00 against the yen, a1.67 against the euro and 0.87 against the loonie. Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. TOKYO, May 31, 2023 - (JCN Newswire) - Tokyo Kiraboshi Financial Group, Inc. (Kiraboshi FG) and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) are pleased to announce our signing of a business alliance agreement, the details of which are outlined below.Alliance Background and ObjectivesTechnological innovations and new regulatory environments are prompting more moves to integrate digital and traditional operations across a wide range of sectors, including retail, infrastructure and local government services. This is making it more and more important for non-financial entities to take advantage of embedded finance*, examples of which include the development of end-to-end systems that allow customers to handle everything from booking taxis and hotels to paying for the services through a single smartphone app. These days, the provision of such convenient and user-friendly services is playing a key role in business growth, and with consumers increasingly on the lookout for seamless and intuitive services, expectations are on the rise for businesses to leverage embedded finance and other creative tools to both design and build flexible services as affordably as possible.By signing this agreement, Kiraboshi FG and MC are demonstrating our commitment to work with business partners who are keen to collaborate with us to enhance its own services. Kiraboshi FG boasts a wealth of know-how and services in the digital-finance sector, while MC counts a broad scope of practical business experience and networks among its many strengths. By combining our expertise, we intend to not only augment our existing services with embedded finance, but also provide an unmatched customer experience that effectively blends the best possible financial and non-financial services. Under the terms of our new agreement, we will work together to develop new joint businesses that focus on embedded finance.In addition, our agreement covers support to promote digital transformations (DX), particularly those geared towards developing embedded-finance services at our respective subsidiaries and other entities with well-established regional customer bases. This should help our business partners to grow, and at the same time contribute to both quality-of-life improvements and economic vitality in those regions.* Embedded Finance: The concept of integrating financial services or tools within the products of a non-financial organization. This can include things like payments, loans, money transfers and money management. Under the terms of the agreement between Kiraboshi FG and MC, an Embedded-finance Service is defined as any service provided by a non-financial organization to an end user that includes such financial services or tools.Roles of Kiraboshi FG and MCKiraboshi FG: Kiraboshi FG will provide our alliance's partners with embedded-finance services by leveraging its highly flexible and functional digital financial services. These services will be primarily offered by Kiraboshi Tech, Inc. and UI Bank Co., Ltd., around which Kiraboshi FG's digital strategy is based.MC: In addition to leveraging its business-management expertise to help design our alliance's highly intuitive embedded-finance services, MC will take advantage of its networks with the business community and local government bodies to stimulate growth at our alliance's business partners.For moreinformation, visit www.mitsubishicorp.com/jp/en/pr/archive/2023/html/0000051374.html.Source: Mitsubishi CorporationCopyright 2023 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved. Here we go again, Hampton Roads. June 1 marks the official start of hurricane season, meaning its another year of watching the tropics for low-pressure waves off the African coast and signs of circulation in the Caribbean. While living on the coast certainly has its advantages, the months-long threat of tropical weather isnt among them. Still, folks here should know the drill by now. They should understand that now is the time to gather supplies and develop an emergency plan, long before severe weather is bearing down on us. And they should know that preparedness eases the burden on first responders and emergency workers should a storm wallop the region. But the start of hurricane season also highlights the need for community preparedness, including resilience efforts and other climate solutions, that will protect residents when storms affect the region. Those efforts must proceed with greater urgency, knowing that Hampton Roads is more vulnerable with each passing year. NOAA forecasters predict this year will see average tropical activity in the Atlantic Ocean. They expect, with 70% confidence, the formation of between 12-17 named storms (systems with winds of 39 mph or higher) and five and nine hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), of which as many as four could become major hurricanes (winds of 111 mph or higher). Residents here know that it doesnt take a direct strike to create widespread hardship and costly damage. We saw that in 2016 when three storms swept through at less-than-hurricane strength in a matter of weeks, causing extensive flooding in many communities. Emergency officials tallied the cost of Hurricane Matthew, the last of the three, at about $500 million; more than 2,500 homes were damaged or destroyed. A direct strike would be catastrophic. In 2019, researchers from Old Dominion University projected the potential impact of a Category 3 storm making landfall here, something that mercifully has not happened in 150 years. They concluded it could cause $18 billion in wind and water damage and displace more than 200,000 residents. Within a year it would cost the region more than 150,000 jobs and contract economic activity by more than $20 billion. Since there are few areas in the country more threatened by climate change than Hampton Roads, the actual effects could be worse. Sea levels continue to rise and land subsidence acts as a multiplier, meaning each year brings the likelihood of more frequent and severe flooding before factoring in what a hurricane would do. So consider this your warning, Hampton Roads. First, make sure to pay attention in the coming months. Our newspapers this week launched a partnership with WTKR News 3 to expand our weather coverage and make sure residents across the region have accurate, reliable and up-to-date information, from when a low pressure system develops to when it exhausts all its energy and falls apart. Knowledge is key. Next, take some time to Know Your Zone, the evacuation protocol for the area, at vaemergency.gov/know-your-zone. Purchase flood insurance for at-risk homes and businesses. Develop an emergency plan for your family, so that everyone knows what to do when a storm looms. And assemble a supply kit with enough food, water (1 gallon per person per day and dont forget your pets), medicine, batteries, flashlights and other essentials to last five days. Visit the Virginia Department of Emergency Management website (vaemergency.gov) for more details. But its also a warning to local, state and federal officials who serve Hampton Roads communities that resilience projects and other flooding-control measures cannot wait. Its estimated that the region needs about $40 billion to protect vulnerable areas a staggering sum but the problem worsens with each passing year. While progress has been made, its not nearly enough. Even as we hope for calm in the Atlantic, Hampton Roads knows the importance of preparedness and should take this opportunity to ready itself for the worst. BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) - The New Zealand dollar weakened against other major currencies in the Asian session on Wednesday. The NZ dollar fell to nearly a 7-month low of 0.5999 against the U.S. dollar, nearly a 3-week low of 83.86 against the yen and nearly a 4-week low of 1.7832 against the euro, from yesterday's closing quotes of 0.6034, 84.49 and 1.7754, respectively. Against the Australian dollar, the kiwi edged down to 1.0824 from yesterday's closing value of 1.0780. If the kiwi extends its downtrend, it is likely to find support around 0.58 against the greenback, 81.00 against the yen, 1.81 against the euro and 1.09 against the aussie. 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. Research, presented by AstraZeneca, provides information on the biological validation of Serum Response Factor as a potential target for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis The target was discovered using the Benevolent Platform, BenevolentAI's AI-enabled drug discovery engine, leveraged in a target identification collaboration between AstraZeneca and BenevolentAI A total of five AI-generated targets have been selected for portfolio-entry in the collaboration to date BenevolentAI ??(Euronext Amsterdam: BAI), a leader that combines cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) and science to accelerate biopharma discovery and development, announces that AstraZeneca presented new preclinical data on an AI-generated target identified in their ongoing collaboration with BenevolentAI. The data was presented at the ATS International Conference 2023. The research provides further scientific information on Serum Response Factor (SRF) as a potential target for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). SRF was discovered as a central pro-fibrotic mechanism using the Benevolent Platform, its flexible and scalable AI-enabled drug discovery engine, despite limited direct evidence linking the target with IPF. Scientists used AI tools within the Benevolent Platform to examine the biological rationale underpinning the target prediction and make data-driven decisions. The target underwent rigorous experimental validation by AstraZeneca using CRISPR screening in primary human lung fibroblasts and validation confirmed using SRF gene silencing (siRNA) or pharmacological SRF pathway inhibition. These data indicate that inhibition of SRF-driven transcription of pro-fibrotic genes in lung fibroblasts might deliver antifibrotic efficacy in IPF. About the BenevolentAI collaboration with AstraZeneca BenevolentAI's successful multi-year target identification collaboration with AstraZeneca focuses on discovering novel targets using BenevolentAI's powerful AI-enabled drug discovery engine. The collaboration has so far led to a total of five targets selected for portfolio-entry (three in IPF and two in chronic kidney disease), with the potential for future development milestones and sales-based royalty revenues for BenevolentAI. Based on this success, the collaboration was expanded in January 2022 for a further three years, adding two new disease areas: systemic lupus erythematosus and heart failure. Poster Details: Title: P1248 Unbiased Identification of Serum Response Factor as a Central Profibrotic Mechanism in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Abstract Number: A3954 About BenevolentAI BenevolentAI (AMS: BAI) is a leading developer of advanced artificial intelligence technologies that unlock the value of multimodal data, surface novel insights, and accelerate biomedical discovery. Through the combined capabilities of its AI platform, its scientific expertise, and wet-lab facilities, the Company is developing an in-house drug pipeline of high-value assets. The Company is headquartered in London, with a research facility in Cambridge (UK) and a further office in New York. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005703/en/ Contacts: Enquiries: Rajin Kang BenevolentAI, VP Communications rajin.kang@benevolent.ai T: +44(0) 203 781 9360 LONDON, May 31, 2023 - (ACN Newswire) - Tokenovate, a financial services company providing distributed financial market infrastructure (dFMI) enabling programmatic lifecycle event management of the pre-trade to post-trade workflow for OTC and Exchange traded derivatives, and ZERO13, a GMEX Group initiative, providing a digital climate fintech aggregation ecosystem announce the successful execution of the world's first smart legal contract for voluntary carbon credit (VCC) derivatives trades referencing the 2022 ISDA (The International Swaps and Derivatives Association) Verified Carbon Credit Transactions Definitions.The unique partnership approach enabled Tokenovate and ZERO13 to successfully demonstrate the creation of a BSV Blockchain based, high quality, smart legal contract for waste to energy VCC trades originating from the 'Bio-CNG Project AJS Fuels' in Savli, Gujarat, which uses biogas technology for capturing methane from animal waste for Bio-CNG bottling purposes to use in the transport sector. This was achieved by integrating the Tokenovate dFMI into the ZERO13 Hub, a distributed orchestration layer which digitally interconnects carbon participants, registries and exchanges across jurisdictions to trade, clear and settle VCC spot and derivatives contracts.The VCC trades were conducted on the Securities, Commodities and Derivatives Exchange (SECDEX), a regulated financial market infrastructure (FMI) firm authorised and licenced by the Seychelles FSA, between Maverik Inc., a waste solution advisory firm representing the project developer selling and Tempus USA Inc. (Tempus Network), as the buyer. SECDEX was connected to the Universal Carbon Registry (UCR), where the VCCs are registered via the ZERO13 Hub.VCCs are a crucial element in achieving global net zero and energy transition goals by 2030, with distributed ledger technology (DLT) playing an important part in facilitating that outcome, as evidenced by research reports:- January 2023: Bloomberg NEF believes the Voluntary Carbon Credit market could reach $1 trillion by 2037.- March 2023: Citi GPS "forecast $4 trillion to $5 trillion of tokenized digital securities and $1 trillion of distributed ledger technology (DLT)-based trade finance volumes by 2030".Richard Baker, Founder and CEO of Tokenovate commented: "The adoption of smart legal contracts will improve lifecycle event management and increase fidelity of derivative trading immensely. DLT will facilitate velocity at scale, while enhancing security and transparency. We believe the digitisation of financial market infrastructure will now accelerate, and it's Tokenovate's ambition to operate at the heart of this transformation. Today's announcement and collaboration with ZERO13 is an important first step and significant milestone in bringing VCCs to market using BSV Blockchain-based smart legal contracts."Hirander Misra, CEO of GMEX Group and ZERO13 commented: "We are delighted to partner with Tokenovate to execute and settle the first ever trades using the ISDA VCC definitions on SECDEX, underpinned by BSV Blockchain smart contract capabilities." He added, "Our unique approach uses a globally recognised standard, trusted by institutions and corporates across the world, to help enable liquidity growth in VCC markets digitally and flexibly map it to address buyers' criteria."Scott O'Malia, CEO of ISDA commented: "The voluntary carbon market can play an important role in channelling financing to green projects, technology and infrastructure that need investment. We're very pleased Tokenovate and its partner ZERO13 have used the 2022 ISDA Verified Carbon Credit Transactions Definitions and the Common Domain Model to create a smart legal contract for VCC trades. Digitisation of derivatives markets will significantly improve efficiency and set the foundations for growth at scale'.Tokenovate and ZERO13 will continue to collaborate to facilitate VCC trades using DLT-based smart legal contracts, incorporating the 2022 ISDA Verified Carbon Credit Transactions Definitions alongside its globally adopted standards and digital tools.Sources:Bloomberg NEF report is available here.Citi GPS report is available here.The Law Commission advice on Smart Contracts is available here.About TokenovateTokenovate is a UK-based fintech company providing distributed financial market infrastructure, enabling programmatic lifecycle event management of the pre-trade to post-trade workflow for OTC traded derivatives. Our vision is to de-risk trading and set a new standard for frictionless and efficient execution through the adoption of smart legal contracts. Read more about Tokenovate at www.tokenovate.com.About GMEX Group LimitedGMEX Group (GMEX) offers sustainable digital solutions for the new age of global markets. The firm is a leading global provider of multi-asset exchange trading and post-trade software/software as-a-Service (SaaS) market infrastructure solutions and "network of networks" digital platform services. GMEX addresses end-to-end regulatory and contract environment needs for issuance, trading, clearing and settlement across exchanges and across multiple asset classes including traditional, digital and hybrid assets, including carbon credits and ESG real-world assets. It is the winner of:- Best Development in Fintech of the Year' - 2022- Best Global Hybrid Finance FinTech Company' - 2022- Best Solution for Trading Digital Assets' - 2023- Most Influential Financial Technology Firms of 2023 - 2023For further information on GMEX, please visit https://www.gmex-group.com/.About ZERO13ZERO13, a venture by GMEX, is an automated AI and blockchain-driven international carbon exchange, registry and aggregation hub ecosystem. The ZERO13 Hub provides a Platform-as-a-service, which offers a distributed point of entry for digital issuance, trading and settlement of carbon credits and real-world assets such as ESG securities. ZERO13 Hub connects multiple international carbon exchanges, registries, custodians and ESG project owners globally for supply verification, transparent pricing and real-time settlement using APIs and across blockchains enabled by ZERO13 Chain ('Pyctor').For further information on ZERO13, please visit https://www.zero13.net/.About SECDEXThe Seychelles-based Securities, Commodities and Derivatives Exchange ("SECDEX") is a market infrastructure ecosystem located in the Seychelles. It is a multi-asset hybrid exchange combining the benefits of a digital exchange with those of a traditional exchange. It focuses on securities, debt, spot commodities and derivatives contracts in traditional and digital tokenised form.The Group consists of:- SECDEX Exchange Limited ("SECDEX Exchange"), which is authorised and licensed by the Seychelles FSA to operate a regulated securities exchange with multi-asset capabilities, which include derivatives and digital assets.- SECDEX Clearing Limited ("SECDEX Clearing"), which is authorised and licensed by the Seychelles FSA to operate a regulated central counterparty (CCP) clearing house to clear trades executed on SECDEX Exchange.- SECDEX Depository Limited ("SECDEX Depository"), which is authorised and licensed by the Seychelles FSA to operate as a regulated central securities depository and registry for securities listed on SECDEX Exchange.- SECDEX Digital Custodian Limited ("SECDEX Digital Custodian" or "SDC"), which is authorised and regulated under the regulatory Sandbox of the Seychelles FSA to operate digital custodial services for a broad range of digital assets.- SECDEX Digital Marketplace ("SDC Digital Marketplace" or "SDM" or "SECDEX Marketplace"), which operates as part of SECDEX Digital Custodian Limited as a trading venue to offer a broad range of cryptocurrencies. These by being in custody can be traded.For more information please visit www.secdex.net.Media Contacts:TokenovateRichard Baker, CEOrichard.baker@tokenovate.comTel: +44 7584 504678GMEX GroupAlice Ellman-BrownThe Realization GroupTel: +44 (0)7365 224804alice.ellman-brown@therealizationgroup.compr@gmex-group.comSource: GMEX GroupTokenovateZERO13Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Thor Explorations Ltd (TSXV: THX) (AIM: THX), "Thor", is a West African-focussed minerals exploration and mining Company, that currently operates the Segilola Gold Mine in Nigeria and is advancing the Douta Gold Project in Senegal towards development. As part of its strategy of identifying high-value mineral resource opportunities and leveraging its first mover advantage in Nigeria, Thor, through its fully-owned subsidiary Newstar Minerals Ltd, is pleased to announce the acquisition of significant tenure in south-west Nigeria that covers both known lithium bearing pegmatite deposits and a large unexplored prospective pegmatite-rich belt. Thor's initial focus is in the south-west quadrant of Nigeria where vital infrastructure, including port facilities at Lagos and Cotonou, are located within close proximity. Thor has secured over 600km2 of granted tenure in Nigeria that forms West Oyo, Kwara State and Ekiti State Lithium Project Areas. The West Oyo Project Area encompasses what Thor considers to be Nigeria's most significant lithium pegmatite occurrence and is currently being exploited by small-scale lithium mining. Thor will leverage its in-country first-mover experience in large-scale hard-rock gold exploration, mine development and production, together with the consequential country de-risking advantages. Exploration and development of the lithium-pegmatite opportunities will operate in parallel with Thor's expanding gold business. Initial field inspection and selective sampling of key sites have returned significant lithium grades from both 'hard-rock'spodumene and lepidolite mineralisation. Sampling of part of a key pegmatite deposit that falls within Thor's tenure returned an analysis of between 1.34% lithium oxide ("Li20") and 9.31% Li20. The Company's objective is to develop its first large-scale lithium mine without the need to sell down ownership positions or dilute existing Thor shareholders. The Company will continue to focus on exploring the potential for mine life at Segilola, producing the Preliminary Feasibility Study at Douta while continuing to develop this lithium opportunity. A presentation on Thor's Lithium Opportunity can be found on the homepage of the Company's website via the following link: https://thorexpl.com/ Segun Lawson, President & CEO, stated: "We are extremely excited to be able to bring this opportunity to our shareholders. Nigeria is well-known for its high-grade lithium-pegmatite deposits most of which are worked on at an artisanal scale for associated high-value gemstones and tantalum. We have assembled a significant land package containing lithium bearing pegmatites and existing lithium production and we intend to implement modern, socially and environmentally appropriate exploration and development techniques designed to exploit the larger-scale potential of Nigeria's pegmatite fields. "While gold remains fundamental to our growth strategy, we consider the virtually untapped lithium potential of Nigeria to be an opportunity that is too good to miss, particularly given our established in-country presence, experience and first-mover advantage. We intend to develop both businesses without any shareholder dilution. Given our financing partners and Chinese development relationships, we also believe we are well positioned to fast-track any commercially feasible opportunities to production. "We look forward to updating the investors with our progress on this exciting, value accretive venture." Introduction In late 2022 Thor undertook an assessment of the opportunities for large-scale development of lithium pegmatites in Nigeria. This work focussed on Oyo State and other regions in southwest Nigeria and comprised inspections of known small scale mining operations that were being worked mainly for gemstones and tantalum. In some locations it was noted that there had been a shift towards producing high-grade spodumene and lepidolite ore that is being sold at a limited scale. The south western portion of Nigeria is underlain by basement rocks that form part of the Pan-African mobile belt. It is intruded by younger granites and is unconformably overlain by Cretaceous and younger sediments. The main lithologies in this region include amphibolites, migmatitic gneisses, granites and pegmatites. The pegmatite fields in the southwestern part of Nigeria mainly trend in a NW-SE direction. The pegmatities occur as extensive very coarse-grained dykes that, typically, contain medium-grained microcline-albite-quartz, blocky microcline-quartz, coarse-grained quartz and a core of coarse-grained muscovite-quartz. Thor has undertaken a limited amount of sampling to assess the potential for high grade spodumene and lepidolite mineralisation. The sampling data, together with field observations, provided sufficient encouragement to proceed, initially, acquiring tenure in areas that returned the highest grade lithium mineralisation. At the West Oyo Lithium Project, a large outcropping pegmatite intrusive has been partly excavated over an extensive area in a small-scale mining operation. In forming the West Oyo Lithium Project, Thor's wholy owned subsidiary, Newstar has acquired the rights to granted tenure that covers this pegmatite deposit in addition to strike extensions to the south and north. Figure 1: Thor Explorations Nigeria Licence Location Map To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7003/168119_69292db914248bb9_002full.jpg Reconnaissance Sampling and Field Verification Results A limited amount of sampling was conducted to assess the potential for high grade spodumene and lepidolite mineralisation. These samples were analysed by SGS laboratories in Randfontein, South Africa using inductively coupled plasma ("ICP") and fusion analytical techniques (SGS method codes GE_ICP90A50 and GE_FUZ90A50). Table 1 summarises the results in both elemental lithium ("Li") and lithium oxide grades of reconnaissance sampling from the southern parts of the West Oyo Lithium Project. Li Li Li2O Li2O ppm % ppm % 43,245 4.32 93,115 9.31 33,365 3.34 71,835 7.19 37,650 3.77 81,060 8.12 14,720 1.47 31,692 3.17 Table 1: Analytical Results from Reconnaissance Sampling at Location 6 Location 6 is the site of the largest known zoned spodumene-lepidolite pegmatite in Nigeria. The pegmatite outcrops over a width of approximately 50m and strike length of several hundred metres. The full extent of this pegmatite body is yet to be determined. A small scale mining operation is currently extracting a variety of spodumene known as kunzite for its gemstone characteristics with most of the typical spodumene being discarded. The grade of 9.31% Li20 from the sample from L06 suggests near-surface enrichment. Figure 2: West Oyo Lithium Project Area Location Map To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7003/168119_69292db914248bb9_003full.jpg Figure 3: Reconnaissance samples of spodumene and lepidolite from south western Nigeria To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7003/168119_69292db914248bb9_004full.jpg Figure 4: Spodumene crystal swarm (left and centre) grading into lepidolite (right wall) exposed at Location 6 To view an enhanced version of Figure 4, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7003/168119_figure4.jpg West Oyo Lithium Project The West Oyo Lithium Project comprises approximately 38km2 of exploration tenure that is located towards the westernmost border of Nigeria and within 200km of the commercial capital of Lagos (Figure 1). The project area is unique in the Nigerian context as it is mostly located in a relatively sparsely populated region of the country but within close proximity to large population centres and advanced infrastructure such as road, rail and ports. The West Oyo Lithium Project has not been subjected to modern systematic exploration, such as drilling and hence, represents an exciting opportunity and potential for a major lithium pegmatite discovery. Strategy Thor has commenced a 5,000 metre scout drilling program at the West Oyo Lithium Project and intends to rapidly assess the resource potential with bulk sampling, mineralogical studies and lithium extraction test work on the pegmatites currently located and acquired. Based on these outcomes systematic exploration and resource drilling will be focussed on the areas that have been shown to have the most positive commercial characteristics. Thor considers the West Oyo Lithium Project as an important initial step towards establishing a significant as a leader in lithium exploration and development in Nigeria. Several additional opportunities have been identified and it is expected that these will shortly form part of the project pipeline. Thor aims to become the "centre of gravity" that will attract and consolidate the many lithium opportunities that exist throughout southern Nigeria. Nigeria Government Support Thor has established and developed excellent relationships at Federal, State and Departmental levels of Government in Nigeria. The views of the Nigerian Government are reflected in the following public domain extracts: "Lithium is progressively becoming a strategic economic resource of major global significance with the potential to dramatically influence world wealth and economies in the future decades. Nigeria's successive governments have emphasized the necessity of diversifying the economy, which had previously relied solely on oil and gas, particularly since the beginning of the present democratic system" (after Y. Olakitan). "Chairman of the Board of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), Uba Sa'idu Malami, a co-founder of the Geological Society of Nigeria, said: "Lithium is the new oil that could significantly control global wealth and economy of nations in the coming decades," adding that the new economic order will be largely dictated by the ability of nations to take advantage of emerging opportunities afforded by lithium resources" (S. Ezeuqwu). Qualified Person The above information has been prepared under the supervision of Alfred Gillman (Fellow AusIMM, CP), who is designated as a "qualified person" under National Instrument 43-101 and the AIM Rules and has reviewed and approved the content of this news release. He has also reviewed QA/QC, sampling, analytical and test data underlying the information. About Thor Thor Explorations Ltd. is a Canadian mineral exploration company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties located in Nigeria, Senegal and Burkina Faso. Thor holds a 100% interest in the Segilola Gold Project located in Osun State of Nigeria and a 70% interest in the Douta Gold Project located in south-eastern Senegal. Thor also holds a 49% interest in the Bongui and Legue gold permits located in Hounde greenstone belt, south west Burkina Faso. Thor trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "THX". THOR EXPLORATIONS LTD. Segun Lawson President & CEO For further information please contact: Thor Explorations Ltd Tel: 778-373-0102 Fax: 604-434-1487 Email: info@thorexpl.com Canaccord Genuity (Nominated Adviser & Broker) Henry Fitzgerald-O'Connor / James Asensio / Thomas Diehl Tel: +44 (0) 20 7523 8000 Hannam & Partners (Broker) Andrew Chubb / Matt Hasson / Nilesh Patel / Franck Nganou Tel: +44 (0) 20 7907 8500 Fig House Communications (Investor Relations) Tel: +1 416 822 6483 Email: investor.relations@thorexpl.com BlytheRay (Financial PR) Tim Blythe / Megan Ray / Said Izagaren Tel: +44 207 138 3203 Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This press release does not constitute an offer to purchase securities. The securities to be offered in the offering have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the benefit or account of, a U.S. person, except pursuant to an available exemption from such registration requirements. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Except for the statements of historical fact contained herein, the information presented constitutes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of certain securities laws, and is subject to important risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the completion of the acquisition of the Segilola Gold Project and the use of the proceeds of the private placement. The words "may", "could", "should", "would", "suspect", "outlook", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "plan", "target" and similar words and expressions are used to identify forward-looking information. The forward-looking information in this news release describes the Company's expectations as of the date of this news release and accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While the Company may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time. NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. WIRE SERVICES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168119 Today, MDS Global, a leading provider of converged B2B/B2C billing and BSS solutions, has launched MDS DecisionAI, a new marketing decision intelligence platform that leverages the power of artificial intelligence to provide the critical insight ambitious MNOs, MVNOs, sub-brands and fixed line operators need to grow and outperform the competition. MDS DecisionAI provides a full suite of telecoms specific AI modules including forecasting, churn, propensity models, and marketing and media mix analysis, that will help brands to optimise their marketing and commercial strategy. It enables them to identify monetisation opportunities and blind spots so they can make interventions sooner. As a result, operators will be able to maximise yield and revenue, for example by predicting churn and identifying a customer's propensity to consider other products offered in a cross-sell campaign, or through better-informed proposition development. As part of MDS Global's commitment to driving profitable digital telcos, MDS DecisionAI's SaaS model, makes it a highly flexible and affordable way to operationally deploy AI. This is particularly beneficial for operators, MVNOs and sub brands who haven't been able to invest in AI in the past due to the complexity of implementation, high integration costs and lack of affordable expert skill. The model eliminates the need for complex, costly and lengthy implementation projects. Instead, it can be easily integrated into existing billing, CVM and digital channels, no matter the platform used. Operators can expect to be set up and reaping the benefits of making more informed strategic decisions within 60 days. Decision intelligence tools are changing the shape of telecoms with reports of cases where operators have made multi-million-pound revenue improvements from a more reactive churn response, seen 25% increase on cross sell success rates, and 30% uplift in acquisition by reviewing marketing media spend. John Burton, CEO of MDS Global, says MDS DecisionAI will democratise artificial intelligence and decision intelligence, and make it accessible to all, including small brands: "Only 5%1 of telcos have a full AI marketing and personalisation strategy that is delivering an ROI on expected growth and benefits. MDS DecisionAI is a game changer and makes the vision of becoming a profitable digital telco more achievable." "Using MDS DecisionAI will create more agile and successful operators almost overnight. The use of AI will help them make the right commercial and marketing spending decisions and make more informed decisions about when and how to adjust their strategy or invest in innovation." More information about how AI is changing the telco landscape and supporting digital telco strategies is available here. Operators can also request a demo here. About MDS Global MDS Global is a leading provider of converged B2B/B2C billing and BSS solutions to MNOs, MVNOs, MVNEs and fixed line telcos. We power our customers' transition from connectivity providers to digital service providers with carrier-grade solutions that include our cloud monetisation platform, AI-powered marketing decision intelligence platform, eSIM, and self-care apps portals. Our agile "No code" SaaS solutions enable communications service providers to drive profit growth, deliver delightful digital customer experiences and launch innovative services fast. To find out more, visit www.mdsglobal.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter 1 Unlocking the value of personalization at scale for operators, McKinsey, February 2022 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230523005875/en/ Contacts: MDS Global press contact Corine Suscens Head of Global Marketing marketing@mdsglobal.com ARTEX MTF AG ARTEX MTF AG: Francis Bacon to be the first artist traded on ARTEX 31-May-2023 / 08:30 CET/CEST Dissemination of a French Regulatory News, transmitted by EQS Group. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. FRANCIS BACON' TO BE THE FIRST ARTIST TRADED ON ARTEX with Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer London, May 31st, 2023 ARTEX MTF AG ("ARTEX MTF" - www.artex-stockexchange.com) announces that the first artwork to be admitted to trading is the 'Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer' (the "Artwork"), an oil on canvas triptych painted by British artist, Francis Bacon in 1963. It belongs to a unique series of five Dyer portrait triptychs that Bacon created between 1963 and 1969 at the height of his career. This portrait is the first of its series of Dyer who would go on to become Bacon's greatest muse. It sold at auction in May 2017 for nearly $52 million and will be offered to investors at an attractive valuation starting at around $55 million. The Artwork to be listed by Art Share 002 S.A. (the "Issuer"), a public limited liability company incorporated in Luxembourg, is a securitisation vehicle governed by the Securitisation Law of Luxembourg. The Issuer facilitates the offering to the public in the form of ordinary shares with a nominal value of $100, which will be regulated, liquid and tradeable on the ARTEX MTF. The Issuer filed a Listing Prospectus on the 19th of May 2023 with the financial regulator of Luxembourg, the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier. The Listing Prospectus will be published on www.artex-stockexchange.com at the start of the pre-marketing phase. It relates to the admission of trading and listing on the ARTEX MTF market, a Multilateral Trading Facility ("MTF", as defined within the MiFID II regime) regulated by the Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority, of class B EUR shares of the issuer. The Issuer intends to initially list on ARTEX MTF 385,000 class B EUR shares corresponding to 70% of all class B shares, at a price in EUR equivalent to USD 100 per share, through a secondary offering only (the "Offering"). The Offering is only available through the placement agents (banks and brokers), who have been appointed by the Issuer pursuant to the placing agreement. The investment opportunity shall be presented to potential investors during the pre-marketing phase, which may last up to 4 weeks, and which is expected to happen between 19th of June 2023 and 19th of July 2023. The book building phase is then expected to start on 5th of July 2023 and to end on 20th July 2023. Finally, it is expected that the admission to trading will become effective and that dealings will commence on 21st July 2023, under the symbol "BAC1EU" and International Securities Identification Number ("ISIN") LU2583605592. The final terms of the Offering and the admission to trading will be published once the placement is concluded on www.artex-stockexchange.com . H.S.H. Prince Wenceslas of Liechtenstein, ARTEX Co-Founder and Chairman stated: "To offer a masterpiece by Francis Bacon as the first listing on ARTEX is a great privilege but also a responsibility. Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer is one of the most famous triptychs in modern art history, realised at Bacon's artistic peak, during a particularly turbulent and productive period in his life. Bacon is the first artist to be brought to the public by ARTEX. To fulfil this responsibility, ARTEX needs to operate a fair and fully transparent trading venue that is accessible and protective of all. ARTEX operates under one of the most rigorous regulatory frameworks to foster a high level of trust. For investors to see more iconic artworks be traded on the ARTEX stock exchange in the future, trust is essential." Yassir Benjelloun-Touimi, ARTEX Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, commented: "We are delighted to offer this masterpiece from one of the most successful 20th century artists, in a city that inspired him so much. Bacon's innovative drive led him to reinvent the genre of portraiture, through a unique realism, challenging painting in the photographic age. As he received strong public and institutional recognition during his life, the price for most of his work remained beyond the means of most people. ARTEX is bringing the opportunity not only to revisit his legacy but to finally make his work accessible for all. More content about his life and work can be explored through our dedicated upcoming website Artodyssey." The ARTEX MTF offers a continuous trading model in connection with auctions. It starts with an opening auction, followed by continuous trading via a central limit order book. Then,trading ends with a closing auction. The MTF participants consist of members and market makers in accordance with regulation and facilitate the trading of shares by the Issuer to trade with a certain liquidity. ARTEX has secured partnerships with well-established stock exchange infrastructure service providers to ensure a seamless trading experience and a robust trading platform. SIX will provide services relating to clearing as well as market data feed whilst settlement will happen through the bridge offered via Euroclear and Clearstream. UnaVista, an LSEG business, will support ARTEX in fulfilling its information exchange and reporting to the relevant supervisory bodies. Rothschild & Co is acting as financial advisor to ARTEX in relation to the IPOs of the artworks. About the artwork: Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer (1963) belongs to a unique series of five portrait triptychs that Bacon created between 1963 and 1969. Not only is the painting in question the first of the series, but it is also the very first of many portraits that Bacon painted of his greatest muse, a few months after they had met. The work displays three views of Dyer's face slightly under life-size, in this intimate 35.5 x 30.5 cm format that Bacon had just initiated a year before painting this triptych, and that he would continue employing from this point onward. The central panel is a front view of the figure - as it usually is in Bacon's small head triptychs - flanked with three-quarter views of the left and right sides of Dyer's face that appear as almost symmetrical. Set against a dark background, the figure of Dyer emerges from the darkness of his own psyche. Shaped by dynamic brushstrokes, the shifting faces are rendered in a semi-abstract blur; however, they remain recognisable. Severely contorted, they reveal Dyer's mental anguish and relate to Bacon's general concerns about the human figure, as a means to reveal even more so the mortality and transience of life. More reminiscent of muscle and tissue than skin, these representations emphasise Bacon's fascination by the fact that body is simply meat. This carnal quality is typical of the artist's work. In the present painting, Bacon paid particular attention to the treatment of the flesh, mostly by using a varied colour palette that ranges from white, carmine, and pink to green, grey, and brown. Only from that moment in time, has Bacon started to focus on the potential of colour, whereas from the late 1940s through to the mid-1950s, the rendering of flesh was mostly monochromatic in his work. In the early 1960s, his artistic style evolved, and his technique reached new heights. The dynamic, vigorous, and fluid brushstrokes featured in the present work mark a shift in Bacon's practice and demonstrate the artist's masterful handling of paint. Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer is a prime example of Bacon's artistic peak. It was executed in 1963, when the painter was enjoying an intensely busy career and his own personal highlights. Moving into his Reece Mews studio in 1961 - where he would continue working until his death - brought him a certain stability. Besides, beyond receiving increasing institutional recognition, his work started to be praised by the public, as evidenced by a first retrospective at the Tate Britain in 1962, that travelled to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York in 1963. That year, he met George Dyer who would be his inspiration for his most powerful works. As a result, Bacon's paintings became more sophisticated and reached maximum intensity, as shown by the present painting. This triptych reflects how Bacon transcended his sources. He used the images of Dyer he had commissioned from Vogue photographer John Deakin as a starting point. Bacon's painterly technique, that can be evidenced here, imparts a strong sense of movement, perhaps evoking the dissolution of the figure with morbid sensitivity. Among the series of five head portrait triptychs depicting Dyer, the work in question is one of two that feature a dark background, whereas the others show a pink, violet, or beige ground; and is the only one that portrays him without his white collar, as if the heads were disembodied and deprived of any spatial or temporal reality. Almost symmetrical, the present triptych is the more balanced of the series in its composition. Less diluted than in the others, the heads sustain greater details that give it a sharp, almost more vigorous aesthetics. This painting is a rare example of Dyer's portrait in this intimate format, that is highly charged with emotion, almost recalling a private, devotional object.Also, the seriality that was dear to Bacon is multiplied here, given this painting is in a triptych format that belongs to a series of five. Provenance - Marlborough Fine Art Ltd, London - Roald Dahl, Great Missenden - Waddington Galleries Ltd, London - Private collection, Paris - Christie's NY, 17 May 2017, Lot 38 - B - Private collection (acquired at the above sale) Exhibitions - British Paintings 1945-1970, Kunstnerforbundet, Oslo; Kunstforening, Trondheim; Kunstforeningen, Bergen; Museum Narodowe, Warsaw; Museum Narodowe, Poznan, and Museum Narodowe, Krakow, January-July 1972, n.p., no. 10 (illustrated). - Bacon-Freud: Expressions, Fondation Maeght, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, July-October 1995, pp. 46-47 and 204, no. 11 (illustrated in color). - Wounds: Between Democracy and Redemption in Contemporary Art, Moderna Museet, Stockholm, February-April 1998, vol. 1, p. 171; vol. 2, n.p. (illustrated in color). - Francis Bacon: Le Sacre et le Profane, Fondation Dina Vierny-Musee Maillol, Paris, April-June 2004, pp. 112 and 157 (illustrated in color). - Francis Bacon: Portraits and Heads, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Edinburgh, June-September 2005, pp. 60-61, no. 29 (illustrated in color). - Francis Bacon. Die Portraits, Hamburger Kunsthalle, Hamburg, October 2005-January 2006, p. 73, no. 28 (illustrated in color). - Francis Bacon: A Centenary Retrospective, Tate Britain, London; Museo Nacional del Prado, Madrid, and Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, September 2008-August 2009, pp. 186 and 280 (illustrated in color). Portraits of George Dyer in Francis Bacon's artistic production In the aftermath of the war, while many artists turned to abstraction, Bacon chose to investigate against prevailing trends. His creative output largely relates to the human figure and is mostly made up of portraits - a genre that was quite unpopular at the time. His purpose was not only to represent the physical appearance of his models, but also to explore them psychologically and to convey their very essence. These depictions also served as vehicles to address the fundamental issues of the human condition and, above all, its sense of mortality. Through this unique realism, Bacon was also looking to challenge painting in the photographic age. As a result, Bacon completely reinvented the genre of portraiture. Divided between full-length figures and head formats, Bacon's portraits predominantly depicted his close friends and lovers. Among them, George Dyer has a very important part. The pair met in late 1963 and shared a passionate but also tormented relationship for almost a decade. Bacon was immediately drawn to this young, seemingly strong but fragile character with a history of petty crime. Dyer's harmonious proportions and good looks were a constant source of inspiration for Bacon who sought to immortalise his appearance but, above all, his tormented psyche. Dyer soon became the most influential personality in Bacon's private and artistic life. His figure dominated Bacon's paintings from the 1960s, as the artist was exploring the genre of portrait more than ever. Dyer remained a major subject of Bacon's work after his death in 1971. Two days prior to the opening of the artist's most important exhibition in his lifetime at the Grand Palais in Paris, he was found dead in their hotel room, leaving Bacon racked with grief and guilt. Dyer left a permanent mark on the artist, unlike any other of his muses and lovers. He appeared in more than 40 paintings over the course of Bacon's career, whether it be large or small and intimate canvases. It was around the time they met, in the early 1960s, that Bacon set up a habitual structure for his portraits: either the small format of 35.5 x 30.5 cm for his heads or the grand scale of 198 x 147.5 cm for his full-length figures. These canvases would either stand alone or be grouped in two or three to form respectively diptychs or triptychs. As Bacon stated in 1979, "Triptychs are the things I like doing most". Indeed, Bacon's triptych paintings, both epic and intimate, have largely defined his career. He started doing small head triptychs with each panel measuring 35.5 x 30.5 cm in 1962, a year before painting Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer, right after he had learned that his then-lover Peter Lacy had died on the day of the inauguration of his first retrospective at the Tate Gallery in London. The triptych format - that he borrowed from religious art - attracted him most for its seriality, which is an important aspect in Bacon's oeuvre. Indeed, he would widely produce variations on the same subjects throughout his career, such as his Popes, men in suits or his van Gogh paintings. When set in triptychs, which he considered to be "the most balanced format", the different variants arguably recall Eadweard Muybridge's photographic studies of the figure in motion that widely inspired the painter. As regards to portraits, the triptych format allowed him to show different aspects of the same face, as is the case with Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer or to depict different people. Bacon famously worked in isolation from his sitters to have the flexibility to distort their appearance as much as needed. Therefore, he had to rely on both photographs and his own memory. In the case of Dyer, he compulsively collected a hundred photos which were later found in his Reece Mews Studio. He had commissioned them from his friend, Vogue photographer John Deakin, and used them as a starting point for all the portraits he made throughout the 1960s and the 1970s, such as Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer. He then focused on deforming his subject to capture his essence, conveying an expressive force that mostly originated from the artist's own emotions. About the artist: Francis Bacon Francis Bacon (1909-1992) is one of the most successful painters of the 20th century, marking undoubtedly the history of art. Away from the growing tendency of his time towards abstract art, the painting of Francis Bacon defies any classification. Instead, Bacon created a unique artistic style on the border between abstraction and figuration. This singularity requires a special treatment, falling outside of historical and stylistic patterns. Besides, Bacon was self-taught and did not receive any proper training. Yet, his work was instantly acclaimed by scholars and historians, as well as the public, for its distinctive and disturbing realism. In the aftermath of the war, his painting reflects on humanity's frailties and imparts an existential anguish, that was also rooted in his own personal experience. Above all, Bacon revolutionised the genre of portrait that allowed him to convey the psychological state of his subjects in addition to representing their physical appearance. Francis Bacon was born in Ireland in 1909 and deceased in Madrid at the age of 83. He was of a generation that went through two world wars and witnessed the violence generated by deep political tensions. His father, Captain Anthony Edward Mortimer Bacon, served in the army and later worked in the War Office during World War I. His job certainly alerted the young Francis Bacon to the threat of violence, preventing him from living a quiet childhood. Bacon's mother, Christina Winifred Firth, was heiress to a Sheffield steel business and coal mine. She lived the life of a socialite, while her son, who suffered from asthma, was often left to his own devices. Family relationships became more complicated as Bacon was dealing with his emerging homosexuality which was never accepted by his father. He was expelled from the family home in 1926, at only 16. Bacon left his rural Ireland and moved to London on an allowance of 3 a week from his mother. Although he was in severe economic difficulty, he could survive by doing various jobs as a secretary and cook. In 1927, he left for Berlin at the suggestion of his father, who entrusted him to a relative in an unsuccessful attempt to make him change. He later stayed with a French family near Chantilly. There, he discovered museums and galleries, and started to take a definitive interest in art. He spent the next year-and-half in Paris, where he saw the exhibition 'One Hundred Drawings of Picasso' and from that crucial moment, he started to conceive his first watercolours and drawings. In 1929, he left for London and started a career as a decorator and designer, which allowed him to acquire notoriety and an interesting clientele. Nevertheless, he abandoned the design field to focus on painting as early as the following year. This radical move was encouraged by his participation in an exhibition with Jean Shepeard and Roy de Maistre - his most influential artistic contacts in the 1930s. In 1933, Bacon produced his first significant paintings, including notably The Crucifixion. It was immediately exhibited at the Mayor Gallery, purchased by Sir Michael Sadler, and reproduced in Herbert Read's Art Now. From this moment on, as many satisfactions as disappointments were to follow, making Bacon's relationship with art rather tormented. In the following years, although Bacon was artistically inspired, he destroyed almost all the paintings he had produced out of self-criticism. Only from the end of the 1950s did he allow an important quantity to survive. The reactions of the public were varied: some did not appreciate Bacon's excesses, while others immediately understood his potential. In 1948, Alfred Barr acquired Painting 1946 from Brausen for the Museum of Modern Art, New York, marking the beginnings of Bacon's international recognition. In November 1949, German art dealer Erica Brausen organised the artist's first solo show at the Hanover Gallery. On this occasion, the art critic Robert Melville, who was also an early biographer of Picasso, published an article in Horizon which identified Bacon as a major artist. Early established as one of the leading post-war painters, Bacon's success would only grow over the decades. Throughout the 1950s, he participated in numerous other events that contributed to the development of his career internationally, such as the Venice Biennale in 1954. However, it was at the turn of the 1960s that he made a real breakthrough: on the 16th of October 1958, he signed a contract with Marlborough Fine Art that acted as his representative dealer for the rest of his life. He also set up a studio at 7 Reece Mews in 1961 where he would continue to work until he died. The sixties proved to be the most important decade in Bacon's artistic career. His work had attracted both gallery owners and art dealers and started to be demanded by the most prestigious museums. In 1962 he had his first major museum retrospective at the Tate Gallery in London, which later travelled to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York. Bacon's oeuvre also started to attract the attention of the most established artists, such as Pablo Picasso who was fascinated by the catalogue and went to see the exhibition in London. That same year, David Sylvester, a British art critic and curator, began making a famous series of interviews with Bacon on BBC Radio, favouring his promotion. Furthermore, new sources of inspiration enriched his artistic musing, as he met George Dyer in 1963. Dyer became his companion, but also the protagonist of his most successful works conceived between the 1960s and the 1970s. Bacon's work spread more and more around the world thanks to a constant exhibition activity. On his second retrospective at the Tate Gallery in 1985, the then director Sir Alain Bowness had so much appreciated his work, that without hesitation, he defined him as "The greatest of living painters". Aggravated asthma caused Bacon severe breathing problems, and he eventually died of a heart attack in 1992 in Madrid, leaving behind an eternal artistic legacy. Market analysis A dominant figure of the British art scene, Francis Bacon was already recognised during his lifetime as one of the most important painters of the 20th century by museums and scholars. The development of his market followed the same trend, making Bacon the highest valued post-war artist at auction, when his Triptych 1976 sold for $86.2 million in 2008. Since his death in 1992, three of his works have set records for the artist. The current one is held by Three Studies of Lucian Freud (1969), that was sold for $142.4 million in 2013. At the time, it became the most expensive artwork to ever sell at auction; it has then moved to the seventh position. The total sales revenue for Bacon's market over a period ranging from 1986 to November 2021 amounts to $3.4 billion. Paintings by Bacon of the greatest quality belong to the High-End of the Post-War and Contemporary market and are sought after by the most prominent collectors in this field, when they are not already part of major public collections and institutions worldwide. Only a rough 580 paintings survive today in Bacon's production, as he used to destroy his own works out of self-criticism. Out of a few 90 iconic paintings by the artist, 54 are currently held in private collections - including the present work -, while the remaining 36, accounting for 40% of that sample, are part of public collections. Therefore, the bulk of Bacon's oeuvre remains mostly in private hands today: a favourable situation allowing the market to sustain its development, although the total number of works is rather limited. Institutions have been actively committed around Bacon's oeuvre, which ensures stability and durability to his market. Their ongoing support also rests on recurring exhibitions. The most recent solo shows were held at the Royal Academy of Arts, London in 2022, as well as the Centre Pompidou, Paris in 2019-2020, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston in 2020. Such major events - that generate new research and discoveries on Bacon's oeuvre and prompt a surge of public interest - are expected to have profound effect on the market, with works increasing in value. Besides, the publication of Bacon's catalogue raisonne by Martin Harrison in 2016, after ten years of endeavour, also plays an important part in strengthening Bacon's market. Acting as a cornerstone, it casts a new light upon the artist's production as a whole and builds greater confidence in the authentication process of his works. Although works by Bacon come to the market on a recurring basis, only 191 paintings have been offered at auction over the reference period from 1986 to November 2021. A succession of major works was put up for sale since the 2000s causing Bacon's market to rise with escalating values. Bacon's market is dominated by high value sales, with a share of 35% by value made by works with actualised prices above $10 million, accounting for 83 lots sold over the reference period. Among these works, 65 were sold between $10 million and $50 million (all prices are actualised unless a specific sales date is mentioned), which accounts for a share of 27% by value; 16 works sold between $50 million and $100 million, representing 7% by value; and 2 works sold for over $100 million, accounting for 1% of Bacon's market by value. This market has remained steady until now for top-end works, with the highest prices mostly achieved during two peaks: in 2007-2008 and 2013-2014. Over a period from 2007 up until November 2021, 29 paintings were sold above an actualised price of $40 million. 14 of these works were sold during the two peaks that experienced a supply spike, and the remaining 12 found buyers over the rest of the period, except during the years 2009-2010. In 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic, inspired by the Oresteia of Aeschylus (1981) was acquired for a price of $84.5 million with an actualised price of $93 million. It became the third most expensive work by the artist: a record implying that the market has remained solid for paintings of the highest quality, which are always in demand. The paintings that perform the highest prices share almost each time a large-scale format (9 out of 10 most expensive lots sold); a triptych format (6 out of 10 most expensive lots sold); a creation date between 1960 and 1969, as the most important decade in the artist's career (5 out of 10); and a known sitter, with the most valuable being George Dyer and Lucian Freud (5 out of 10; 3 being of George Dyer). The present work, Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer, was brought to auction on one occasion, selling for $52 million in 2017. Therefore, it ranks ninth among Bacon's most expensive paintings at public sale and achieved an auction record for a small triptych by the artist. Considering its 2017 sale, this single artwork represents a share of 1.7% of Bacon's total sales revenue by value over the reference period. Bacon made 40 or so small portrait triptychs that represents just 7% of his existing oeuvre - and they are rarely put up for sale. Only 19 distinct small triptychs have been brought to auction until today, nine of which were executed in the 1960s and three of which depict George Dyer including the present work. Among these existing triptychs, only five depict George Dyer: a unique series that remains partly in private hands, since two of these paintings are already part of museum collections (the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and the Louisiana Museum of Art, Humlebk). Three Studies for a Portrait of George Dyer is a rare example of Bacon's moving tribute to his muse in this intimate triptych scale still available for acquisition. Iconic works by Bacon come occasionally at auction, and their public offering always generates record prices, given the ongoing demand for them. In June 2022, Study for Portrait of Lucian Freud was one of the top lots of Sotheby's Jubilee auction taking place in London. Acquired for $52 million, it was the most expensive contemporary painting sold in London since 2014 and confirmed the strong interest for Bacon's most important paintings. As per Art Tactic's review on the Art Market in 2022, the top three artists in the modern art segment are Pablo Picasso with $388.8 million in auction sales, ahead of Francis Bacon with $224.9 million, and Rene Magritte with $191.5 million. * * * About ARTEX "ARTEX MTF" operates a secure and liquid art shares exchange, regulated and supervised by the Financial Markets Authority of Liechtenstein within the European MiFID II legislative framework. Providing easy access to a traditionally exclusive fine art market, ARTEX aims to democratise investing in artworks from the world's greatest masters, spanning a period from the Renaissance to the twentieth century. ARTEX-listed masterpieces will be on public display, in museums and exhibitions around the world. ARTEX will strive to empower investors by offering the latest news, market insights and educational content to level the playing field in art investing. ARTEX was co-founded in 2020 by art enthusiasts and financial markets experts H.S.H. Prince Wenceslas of Liechtenstein and Yassir Benjelloun-Touimi. For more information about ARTEX, please visit www.artex-stockexchange.com . "ARTEX MTF" is a Multilateral Trading Facility operated by ARTEX MTF AG, a Company incorporated in the Principality of Liechtenstein under company number FL-0002.682.571-2 with registered offices at Aeulestrasse 24 9495, Triesen, Liechtenstein. ARTEX MTF is regulated by the Financial Markets Authority under reference number 307407. Press contacts H/Advisors France: Alienor Miens | alienor.miens@havas.com | +33 6 64 32 81 75 Roxane Certner | roxane.certner@havas.com | +33 6 46 89 25 00 Romain Brochard | romain.brochard@havas.com | +33 6 38 86 68 42 UK: David Sturken | david.sturken@h-advisors.global | +44 (0) 799 059 5913 Germany: Christoph Schluter | christoph.schlueter@h-advisors.global | +49 69 97 09 85 90 Italy: Valentina Burlando | | + 39 335. 618.2360 Switzerland (German speaking): Reto Gerber | reto.gerber@konsulenten.ch | +41 78 625 48 32 Switzerland (French speaking): Marie-Helene Hancock | marie-helene.hancock@konsulenten.ch | +41 79 204 21 22 Regulatory filing PDF file File: Francis Bacon to be the first artist traded on ARTEX 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. SHENZHEN, China, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- vivo today released its latest communication technology vision, "Bringing you a boundless intelligent world," underscoring the company's ongoing efforts to innovate and support communities in bridging the digital divide. As part of this initiative, vivo Communications Research Institute held its first 5G Talk event, which brought together industry experts to discuss the latest developments in 5G and the potential benefits for consumers. vivo's Communication Technology Vision vivo believes that with the commercialization of 5G technology and the steady development of 6G research, communication technology will bridge the physical and digital worlds. With high-speed and reliable networks, communication technology will provide seamless integration between the two worlds, giving rise to new applications, services, and experiences. This will break down the boundaries between people, things, space, and time, leading to a boundlessly connected world that will foster the sustainable development of society. With this outlook for the future, vivo Communications Research Institute has put forward its latest vision of "Bringing you a boundless intelligent world," which encapsulates vivo's commitment to narrowing the digital divide by providing consumers with the ultimate experience in innovative devices and intelligent connectivity services. vivo Hosts 5G Tech Talk to Discuss 5G Development and Benefits vivo held its first 5G Talk event, featuring six industry experts, including representatives from telecom operators, industry associations, and academia. Discussing the benefits of 5G for developing countries, the panelists concluded that enhanced connectivity could provide solutions to infrastructure challenges, such as remote healthcare and education, IoT for agriculture and disaster recovery, and enable new business models. To watch the full 5G Tech Talk, please visit vivo Global YouTube or vivo Facebook. "At vivo, we are dedicated to making 5G smartphones more convenient, accessible, and affordable, empowering communities to thrive in the new digital landscape," said Rakesh Tamrakar, Leading Specialist at vivo Communications Research Institute. "Our relentless efforts in this area, including our extensive R&D initiatives, have resulted in cutting-edge innovations that are now a part of global 5G standards. By nurturing innovation and collaboration, we believe we can contribute to shaping a boundless, intelligent world where everyone can benefit from advanced telecommunication technologies." Committed to Bringing Premium 5G Experience to Consumers around the World vivo has designed a wide range of products ready for the next generation of connectivity, catering to different consumer preferences and budgets. For instance, the powerful X and V series offer some of the slimmest 5G phones on the market, owing to vivo's innovative 3D stacking technology. The recently-launched V27 Noble Black is one of the thinnest curved screen phones in vivo's product portfolio, offering a comfortable grip with a thickness of only 7.36mm and weighing only 182g. These phones also boast exceptional power-saving features, and remarkably reliable connectivity, all backed by years of R&D. By supporting the development of local 5G networks and communication technologies, vivo hopes to make high-speed connectivity and digital life more accessible and convenient through its diversified 5G devices, ushering in a boundless, intelligent world. About vivo vivo is a technology company that creates great products based on a design-driven value, with smart devices and intelligent services as its core. The company aims to build a bridge between humans and the digital world. Through unique creativity, vivo provides users with an increasingly convenient mobile and digital life. Following the company's core values, which include Benfen*, user-orientation, design-driven value, continuous learning and team spirit, vivo has implemented a sustainable development strategy with the vision of developing into a healthier, more sustainable world-class corporation. While bringing together and developing the best local talents to deliver excellence, vivo is supported by a network of R&D centers in Shenzhen, Dongguan, Nanjing, Beijing, Hangzhou, Shanghai and Xi'an, focusing on the development of state-of-the-art consumer technologies, including 5G, artificial intelligence, industrial design, imaging system and other up-and-coming technologies. vivo has also set up an intelligent manufacturing network (including those authorized by vivo), with an annual production capacity of nearly 200 million smartphones. As of now, vivo has branched out its sales network across more than 60 countries and regions, and is loved by more than 400 million users worldwide. *"Benfen" is a term describing the attitude on doing the right things and doing things right - which is the ideal description of vivo's mission to create value for society. Stay informed of latest vivo news at https://www.vivo.com/en/about-vivo/news Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2087236/image.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/vivo-communications-research-institute-introduces-new-technology-vision-hosts-5g-technology-dialogue-with-global-partners-301837052.html POOLE, England, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Codestone Group, the leading SAP, Microsoft & CCH Tagetik cloud technology consulting firm, is pleased to announce the appointment of Cherin Elliott as its Group People Director. Codestone is rapidly expanding and taking a prominent position in supporting UK SMEs to large enterprises to excel through the implementation of cutting-edge cloud technology. With its ambitious growth plans, the company has appointed Cherin Elliott as Group People Director to lead its strategic talent acquisition programme. Cherin's expertise in organisational change will be invaluable in driving Codestone's expansion efforts. Her key focus will be to attract top talent to the company, while streamlining HR processes to ensure clarity and consistency across the organisation. As well as nurturing and building upon the existing culture at Codestone, Cherin will aim to provide its employees the support they need to reach their full potential. Jeremy Bucknell, Codestone co-founder and CEO says, "We are excited Cherin is joining our team and believe she will be the perfect leader to ensure our people get the best support as well as the most exciting opportunities as the company expands. Our positive and dynamic culture is a core pillar of our success and I'm confident Cherin will lead the way in helping build on its strong foundations." "I'm really looking forward to joining Codestone's leadership team, where there is a shared passion for people and a clear ambition for growth," says Cherin Elliott on her appointment as Group People Director. "Our goal is to not only attract and retain top talent, but also to build a strong partnership within the business. My vision for the People Team is to provide support and development opportunities that enable all departments to achieve their goals and drive the company's success." For over 25 years, the Codestone Group has consistently pioneered modern ERP and cloud database technologies. Today, it is equity backed by FPE Capital and offers award-winning Cloud business technology consulting and delivery of SAP ERP, EPM, Financial Management and Advanced Analytics alongside CCH Tagetik CPM and Microsoft Cloud IT solutions to growing SME, mid-market and large enterprises across the UK. With a combined 700+ customers and 2500+ projects, it is an SAP Partner of the Year for SAP Business ByDesign and SAP Business One in the UK and EMEA North, CCH Tagetik Platinum Partner, and Microsoft Gold Partner. Delivering next-level cloud transformation projects with a beyond go live approach, its primary focus is on customer experience with a 24x7x365 client-first mindset and managed services offering. For more information, please visit https://www.codestone.net/ Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088451/Cherin_Elliott.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/codestone-group-bolsters-talent-acquisition-strategy-with-appointment-of-cherin-elliott-as-people-director-spearheading-companys-ambitious-growth-plans-301837435.html A centre of excellence for agricultural transformation in Malawi is being constructed with funding from Foundation for a Smoke-Free World grant. is being constructed with funding from Foundation for a Smoke-Free World grant. The new building will support ongoing technical programs that focus on creating an inclusive science, technology, and business incubation centre for research, training, learning and innovation. It will be hosted by the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) and open to smallholder farmers, researchers and other key stakeholders across the country's agricultural sector. NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ahead of World No Tobacco Day (WNTD), the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World (FSFW) reinforced its commitment to help farmers in the world's most tobacco dependent country, Malawi, explore and embrace sustainable agriculture alternatives to tobacco farming. With funding from a five-year FSFW grant, construction has begun for the Centre for Agricultural Transformation's (CAT) physical facility at the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) campus in the Malawian capital. The goal of the CAT is to transform Malawian agriculture systems and the lives of Malawian smallholder farmers by giving them access to inclusive innovation in agricultural science and technology through a range of commercialization channels. The CAT has been managing its programs without a central location, establishing CAT smart farms at LUANAR (Bunda and Natural Resources Campus) and Makoka research station where over 10 value chains have been explored that are becoming popular with smallholder farmers, including: groundnuts, soybean, dairy, mushrooms, and bananas. The new physical hub will be a centre of excellence that will build upon this work with support from FSFW's affiliate, the Agricultural Transformation Initiative (ATI). "World No Tobacco Day highlights the importance of helping farmers transition away from growing tobacco. Malawi is ready, willing and able to move away from tobacco as one of its main exports, but the work must start at ground level," said Candida Nakhumwa, Vice-President and Malawi Country Director, Foundation for a Smoke-Free World. "Tobacco farmers and the land on which tobacco is grown are often overlooked in the conversation about ending smoking. The global decline in tobacco demand is bringing negative economic consequences to tobacco farmers. They must be supported to find competitive and sustainable alternative livelihoods. "That is where the CAT's approach and activities come in, providing much-needed support to farmers, agribusinesses, communities and other stakeholders working to build long-term resilience by diversifying away from tobacco production." Malawi is one of the largest tobacco-producing countries in the world. Tobacco accounts for more than 60% of the country's foreign exchange earnings and 13% of the economy, as measured by the gross domestic product. Between 2016 and 2021, tobacco exports in real terms dropped by 42%, according to the World Bank. Mwatitha Braynati, a groundnuts Malawian farmer since 2020, said: "Before the CAT came to partner with us my groundnut harvest totaled just 30 bags. Two years later, in 2022, from the same 1 hectare of land, my harvest increased to 120 bags with technical guidance from the CAT. Next year I expect it to increase to 150 bags by applying the new practices and technologies demonstrated through the CAT smart farms. "The proceeds from the sale of this harvest have ensured my family of 7 children and 4 grandchildren is happy and does not lack for a good variety of food at home." Learn more about the Centre for Agricultural Transformation via the following link: https://youtu.be/HPm5MpXqyqs Learn more Mwatitha Braynati, a Malawian groundnuts farmer, via the following link: https://youtu.be/tBfC2oRhuRI About CAT's Technical Program: Serves as a hub for science, technology, innovation and incubation, where smallholder farmers and businesses can view and experiment with agri-tech, exchange ideas, create partnerships and develop business plans to advance new and sustainable livelihoods. Supports creation of a market for alternative commodities, and research institutions dedicated to science and technology, where they can incubate and advance innovative ideas that help transition the agricultural sector away from tobacco. Provides customized technical assistance, including mentorship, agribusiness development support, and connections to networks to help advance agricultural diversification. This includes increasing the scale in which smallholder farmers are taught about products, practices, and technologies that can improve their agricultural productivity and improve their livelihoods. Delivers access to soil testing and food testing laboratories so farmers can improve management of soil amendment initiatives and agri-preneurs can ensure their products meet the quality levels required to be market ready. About the Centre for Agricultural Transformation (CAT) The Centre for Agricultural Transformation (CAT) is a science, technology, and business incubation project that promotes the charitable mission of supporting smallholder Malawian farmers in making economically viable, data-driven decisions for diversifying their incomes and ridding them of their dependence on tobacco farming. Launched in 2019, the CAT is supported by a grant from the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World, with general assistance from the Foundation's affiliate, the Agricultural Transformation Initiative. About the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World The Foundation for a Smoke-Free World is an independent, U.S. nonprofit 501(c)(3) grantmaking organization with the purpose of improving global health by ending smoking in this generation. The Foundation supports its mission through three broad categories of work: health and science research; agricultural diversification; and industry transformation. Funded by annual gifts from PMI Global Services Inc. ("PMI"), the Foundation is independent from PMI and operates in a manner that ensures its independence from any commercial entity. For more information about the Foundation, please visit www.smokefreeworld.org. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088797/Foundation_for_a_Smoke_Free_World_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/centre-for-excellence-hub-to-help-worlds-most-tobacco-dependent-farmers-transition-to-more-sustainable-livelihoods-301837802.html Virginias Glenn Youngkin is joining the list of Republican governors sending soldiers or other state law enforcement officers to the U.S. border with Mexico. Youngkin announced Wednesday that in response to a request from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott he had signed an executive order directing the deployment of 100 Virginia National Guard soldiers and 21 support personnel. The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state, Youngkin said in a statement. As leadership solutions at the federal level fall short, states are answering the call to secure our southern border, reduce the flow of fentanyl, combat human trafficking and address the humanitarian crisis. Youngkins order said the soldiers will answer to a military commander during the 30-day deployment, not any local civilian authorities, and will be equipped with weapons, ammunition, body armor, protective masks, and night vision and other support devices. The governors office said Texas made a request in mid-May for assistance with continued instability along the U.S. border with Mexico, including the increase in supply of illegal drugs and human trafficking. Texas request came through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, of which Virginia is a founding member, the news release said. Youngkins press team did not immediately respond to a question about the expected cost of the mission or the source of funding. Youngkin, a former private equity executive who is barred under Virginia law from seeking a second consecutive term, is frequently mentioned as a possible 2024 presidential contender. He said earlier this month that he had no plans to launch such a bid this year. Republican governors including Floridas Ron DeSantis, a presidential candidate, have recently announced plans to deploy Guard troops. Other GOP governors have made similar deployments in recent years. President Joe Biden announced in early May plans to send 1,500 active-duty troops to the border, in addition to the 2,500 National Guard members already there. Those military personnel were tasked with data entry, warehouse support and other administrative duties so that U.S. Customs and Border Protection can focus on fieldwork, the White House said. While some other Virginia Republicans praised Youngkins decision, the states Democrats characterized the move as absurd or disingenuous. Youngkin for President has officially jumped the shark our VA National Guard troops shouldnt be used to further presidential ambitions much less fight a MAGA culture war in Texas of all places Never thought I would see my state so compromised, tweeted state Sen. Scott Surovell. Strategic focus on sector expertise boosts growth and client success in driving innovation, business transformation and social impact New York, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Boyden, a premier leadership and talent advisory firm with more than 70 offices in over 45 countries, congratulates its new global practice leaders, recognized for their knowledge, expertise and commitment to their industries, clients and global colleagues. "Boyden's deep sector expertise is a cornerstone of our growth strategy. It enables our partners to share their local expertise, knowledge of leadership talent and the latest developments worldwide," commented Chad Hesters,President & CEO, Boyden. "Our global practice leaders are appointed for their collegial leadership capabilities, support for excellence in client service and cross-border collaboration to meet the evolving needs of our clients." Boyden's new global practice leaders are: CEO & Board Services: (https://www.boyden.com/ceo-and-board-services/index.html) Armin Meier (https://www.boyden.com/armin-meier/index.html), Managing Partner, Switzerland and Jorg Kasten (https://www.boyden.com/jorg-kasten/index.html), Managing Partner, Germany Human Resources: (https://www.boyden.com/human-resources/index.html) Diane Turek Pire (https://www.boyden.com/diane-turek-pire/index.html), Partner, United States (Summit, New Jersey) Financial Services: (https://www.boyden.com/financial-services/index.html) Michael Lewis (https://www.boyden.com/michael-lewis/index.html), Partner, Canada Healthcare & Life Sciences: (https://www.boyden.com/healthcare-and-life-sciences/index.html) Nick Bellwood (https://www.boyden.com/nick-bellwood/index.html), Partner, UK & Ireland Industrial: (https://www.boyden.com/industrial/index.html) Helga Kayser-Dorr (https://www.boyden.com/helga-kayser-dorr/index.html) and Jutta Menzenbach (https://www.boyden.com/jutta-menzenbach/index.html), Managing Partners, Germany Professional Services: (https://www.boyden.com/professional-services/index.html) Pierre Fouques Duparc (https://www.boyden.com/pierre-fouques-duparc/index.html), Managing Partner, France Technology: (https://www.boyden.com/technology/index.html) Rick Wargo (https://www.boyden.com/rick-wargo/index.html), Partner, United States (Seattle) Boyden's sector specialization delivers on client needs through executive search, interim managementand leadership consulting. The firm's global practices continue to evolve to provide expertise in innovative and fast-growth areas such as autonomous vehicles, fintech, medtech, private equity & venture capital. Boyden works with publicly-quoted, private, family-owned and social impact organizations. About Boyden Boyden is a premier leadership and talent advisory firm with more than 70 offices in over 45 countries. Our global reach enables us to serve client needs anywhere they conduct business. We connect great companies with great leaders through executive search, interim management and leadership consulting solutions. Boyden is ranked amongst the top companies on Forbes' Americas Best Executive Recruiting Firms for 2023. For further information, visit www.boyden.com. Barcelo Hotel Group and Uberall Partner To Offer Frictionless Online to Offline Experiences for the Hotels 190+ Locations Across 26 Countries MADRID and BERLIN, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Barcelo Hotel Group, the hotel division of the Barcelo Group with more than 190 four and five star urban and holiday hotels across 26 countries, has chosen Uberall, a global provider of local digital marketing solutions, to manage their digital presence globally. Barcelo Hotel Group transitioned from Yext to Uberall to maximise its locations' digital visibility and make it easier for customers to explore the hotels offerings. Within just a few months on the platform, Barcelo Hotel Group enhanced its Google Business Profiles with 210 new Hotel Attributes, reached 100% profile completeness, and eliminated all duplicates. These improvements helped the brand increase revenue from Local SEO by 56.47% within the first eight months of implementation. "We're thrilled by these results and look forward to continuing working together with Uberall," said Alberto Rodriguez Camara, Global Head of Digital Marketing, Barcelo Hotel Group. "With its dedicated Customer Support Team since day one, Uberall enabled us to build a delightful, frictionless hybrid customer journey for our customers." With Uberall's Analytics and Insights, the Barcelo Hotel Group teams are empowered with real-time data and visibility into their performance, while Reviews Management enables them to personally respond to customers. By combining these features with Listings and Local Social, the teams can ensure the information for each hotel is accurate and build social media campaigns tailored to a specific audience. "Travellers today expect digital conveniences from discovery, to booking and onsite experiences," said Florian Hubner, CEO and Founder at Uberall. "Having recently stayed at a Barcelo Hotel during a visit to the Canaries, I can personally attest to the exceptional guest experience and attention to detail both online and offline. Barcelo Hotel Group is setting a new standard for luxury hotels and we are delighted to partner with them as they lead the way in the hospitality industry." What's Next for Barcelo Hotel Group and Uberall? ChatGPT! The hotel chain is expanding its local digital presence with extended services including restaurants, bars, spas and more that are a part of its hotel properties. As Barcelo Hotel Group goes from managing 200+ local profiles to more than 1,000, they anticipate even more visibility for the brand but also added workload for the hotel team to respond to reviews across more profiles. "Responding to customer reviews can have a big impact on local visibility for our hotels and services, especially in the highly competitive restaurant space, but it is also a significant amount of work for our team to respond to every review," said Javier Bermudez, SEO Specialist, Barcelo Hotel Group. "This is precisely where we believe Chat-GTP can be very useful, as it can be the key to ensure that our growth is not slowed down by a lack of resources." Bermudez also credits Uberall, in part, to an overall contribution in mobile visibility for the barcelo.com domain, which is the brands ecommerce site for Barcelo Hotel Group. Since Barcelo Hotel went live with Uberall in late 2021 the brand's visibility via mobile search has increased significantly. Barcelo Hotel Group have witnessed significant growth in their SEO ranking index from 15 to 20 since May 2022, as demonstrated by the Sisitrx graph. In contrast, some of their industry rivals have remained stagnant or even seen a decline in their SEO performance during the same period and with scores much lower, between 2.8 and 6.5. About Barcelo Hotel Group The Barcelo Hotel Group, the hotel division of Barcelo Corporacion Empresarial, is the 2nd largest chain in Spain and the 31st in the world. It currently has 190+ urban and leisure hotels with 4 and 5 stars, and over 55,000 rooms spread out across 26 countries and marketed under four brands: Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barcelo Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resorts and Allegro Hotels. Contact: press@uberall.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088315/Barcelo_Hotel_Uberall.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/barcelo-hotel-group-chooses-uberall-to-enhance-its-hybrid-customer-journey-globally-301837306.html Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Phenom Resources Corp. (TSXV: PHNM) (OTCQX: PHNMF) (FSE: 1PY0) ("Phenom" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to gain a 5% equity interest in a private Japanese battery company, that is advancing its revolutionary fast charging low-cost vanadium solid-state battery (VSB) business world-wide. The non-binding MOU describes the principles and proposed terms and conditions of an Off-Take Agreement between MK Plus Co., Ltd. (MK Plus) and Phenom whereby Phenom will commit to providing 20% of its future Carlin Vanadium Project production concentrates to MK Plus at fair market value. In exchange for this commitment, MK Plus will, on signing a Definitive Off-Take Agreement, issue to Phenom 5% of MK Plus's issued and outstanding shares. Phenom's interest will be non-dilutive until MK Plus's market valuation exceeds US$500 million after which Phenom's interest in MK Plus may be diluted but will not fall below 3%. Currently, MK Plus's market valuation is CDN$83.85 million. According to MK Plus, their vanadium solid-state battery provides higher desired performance at a lower cost over vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFB) in the large capacity battery market. They claim: Rapid charging in minutes (C-rate of between 100 and 300 versus C-rate of 20 in VRFB), achieving massive charging speeds 100 times faster. Use one tenth of the amount of vanadium than VRFB use for an equivalent charge. Have +100,000 deep cycle life without heat dissipation (no fire risk) or degradation (long life). Have been tested at ambient operating temperatures between 100oC and -40oC without loss of performance. MK Plus's vision is to be the #1 provider of high-performance, stationary, low-cost utility-scale batteries that are made 100% in North America with vanadium from Phenom's Carlin Vanadium resource in Nevada. With 14 patents world-wide for its battery technology, they have progressed through a 12-year R&D period including thorough third-party testing. They are now providing scaled-up modules to European power companies for customer testing next month. MK Plus has established multiple subsidiaries including the USA, France and Austria with plans to expand further world-wide. Paul Cowley, President & CEO of Phenom states, "We are very pleased to have built a relationship with MK Plus over the last 2 years that has culminated in this MOU and bring this new technology to the USA to address battery supply chain gaps. The extraordinary features of their vanadium solid-state batteries can be highly disruptive to the utility-scale battery market which is forecasted to expand 30 times by the end of this decade. In my visit to MK Plus's facilities in Japan last week I witnessed firsthand the impressive rapid charging. To own 5% of this unique and progressive Japanese battery company with their aggressive growth potential just prior to their power customer testing is timely and significant for us. We see this MOU as a start to a strong and growing relationship with MK Plus." "The stationary battery market is projected to be double the size of the EV battery market by early 2030's and that is where vanadium redox flow batteries have their advantage over lithium batteries. As pointed out above, MK Plus's vanadium solid-state battery is superior again to the VRFB. Additionally, MK Plus believes that because of the rapid changing of their battery, there is potential to enter the EV space but are initially focused on the bigger market where they have a clear advantage," continues Paul Cowley. "MK Plus sought out and prioritized Phenom's vanadium resource in Nevada as the ideal target and relationship in the USA for MK Plus's initial global growth plans by securing future vanadium feed in the USA." The Definitive Agreement is expected to be finalized by June 30, 2023. About Phenom Resources Corp. Phenom has 100% interest in the Carlin Vanadium Project, located in Elko County, 6 miles south from the town of Carlin, Nevada and Highway I-80 which hosts the Carlin Vanadium deposit, North America's largest highest grade primary vanadium resource. The Project lies in the Carlin Gold Trend. Approximately 9 million ounces comprised of multiple gold deposits, including past producing mines, are present near the Phenom property (5-15km). ON BEHALF OF PHENOM RESOURCES CORP. per: "Paul Cowley" CEO & President (604) 340-7711 pcowley@phenomresources.com www.phenomresources.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking information Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking" statements. These statements relate to future events or the Company's future performance. All such statements involve substantial known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results to vary from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, they should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and they will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions on the date of this news release, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168060 Digital publisher Remedia Europe is preparing a groundbreaking news outlet, Brussels Signal that promises to provide fresh and candid coverage of EU affairs and the issues that matter most to the citizens of Europe. Brussels Signal will deliver rigorous reporting and analysis of the European Union. The news outlet aims to shake up the status quo by providing insightful and informed journalism that challenges prevailing ideas and policies, demands genuine accountability from decision-makers, and counters the marginalisation of dissenting voices on the issues facing Europe today. An early version of Brussels Signal opens May 31 with an invitation to join a live event with the new editors. Other features of the news outlet including video content and newsletters will roll out in the coming weeks, with events coming this autumn at the Brussels Signal's purpose-built studio in the heart of the European Quarter of Brussels. The new media brand emerges at a time when the EU faces internal differences among Member States that are testing the work of the EU and questioning the shape and substance that European unity will take. External challenges including the war in Ukraine, energy security, migration, and trends in geopolitics are set to try the EU as a global player, and upcoming elections present opportunities for it to demonstrate its ambitions. Meanwhile, the news industry is seeing consolidation, which means not more voices but fewer. Today's European citizens demand greater freedom in news media, sources that raise tough questions and encourage unfettered debate; media pluralism is an essential part of this. "We're thrilled to introduce Brussels Signal," said Michael Mosbacher, who played leading roles in the launch of Standpoint and The Critic in the UK and serves as Editor-in-Chief of the new media outlet. "Our team of talented journalists is dedicated to delivering accurate, timely, and insightful coverage of the most important issues affecting people throughout Europe. Our objective is to critically examine the news of the day and present a distinctive alternative viewpoint, offering a captivating source of content that engages and enlightens our audience." Justin Stares, a Brussels-based correspondent whose bylines have appeared in The Telegraph, Sunday Telegraph, New York Times, The Guardian, Observer, and other titles, will serve as senior editor for news. Justin is also founder of The Maritime Watch, an EU policy news service, and author of several books, most recently This is Belgium, a political, economic and social analysis of the country that hosts the EU institutions. The site will feature regular commentary and analysis from well-known and emerging voices, including Douglas Murray, Anne-Elisabeth Moutet, Dominic Green, Kapil Komireddi, Alessandra Bocchi, William Nattrass, Ralph Schoellhammer and Felipe Fernandez-Armesto. Authored newsletters with a regional and thematic focus will highlight developments underreported in Brussels. Plus, engaging video content, including interviews with opinion leaders and podcasts. "The EU and its Member States remain indispensable in this environment fraught with crisis and conflict, and there's no question that European institutions and the people of Europe would benefit from a distinctive source of news and insights," said Patrick Egan, Remedia Europe CEO and publisher of Brussels Signal. "What you see now at Brussels Signal is just the beginning. We're ramping up our products newsletters, podcasts and more in our endeavour to shake up the news media landscape. "When we look at the current media landscape, we see an opportunity. Rather than sit on the sidelines, I decided to invest my time and money to pursue that opportunity and bring about the change we need. Now we have the seed capital to finally launch with confidence in our news brand and its prospects as a sustainable business, one that will constructively influence the conversation at the European level." ENDS Brussels Signal (https://brusselssignal.eu/) provides rigorous reporting on the important issues affecting citizens across Europe. Challenging the status quo with a focus on delivering insightful coverage of the issues shaping the Europe of today and tomorrow, our seasoned editors and contributors offer a distinct perspective on the news. For more information about Brussels Signal and to read its coverage, visit www.brusselssignal.eu. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005558/en/ Contacts: For press inquiries contact@brusselssignal.eu. TKH Group NV ("TKH") announces that private equity group Argos Wityu SAS has provided its commitment to acquire 100% of the shares of TKH France SAS ("TKH France"), through a newly created company SCS Wityu Holding SAS ("SCS Wityu"). TKH France distributes connectivity solutions for the building & construction industry mainly in France and contains the entities CAE Data SAS and ID Cables SAS. The turnover of TKH France totaled 129.3 million in 2022 with an EBITA of 19.6 million and 186 FTEs.The divestment of TKH France fits within TKH's strategy of focusing on proprietary smart technologies.The transaction is expected to close in Q3 2023, subject to the customary employee information and consultation procedures in France as well as necessary regulatory antitrust filings.TKH France will be divested for an Enterprise Value of 118 million. Under the terms of the agreement, TKH will invest 26.5 million in SCS Wityu to acquire a minority stake of 40%. SCS Wityu will be controlled by Argos Wityu SAS, with key management of TKH France also participating. Upon closing, TKH is expecting a one-off net profit contribution of about 20 million.Alexander van der Lof, CEO of TKH Group:" With the announcement of this intended substantial divestment a next milestone in the roll out of our Accelerate 2025 strategy is reached. The value creation potential with a buy and build strategy for this activity can best be realized outside the TKH Group and we firmly believe that private equity group Argos Wityu will bring the right experience and necessary focus to grow these activities into the next stage. For TKH, this divestment allows us to put further strategic focus on our differentiating and innovative power in smart technologies to drive added value at higher levels. By reinvesting part of the proceeds for a 40% share, TKH has the opportunity to further benefit from the value creation potential in the near future. TKH will continue to be active in France within Smart Connectivity systems with fibre optic network solutions under the brand TKF Telecom."Thomas Ribereau, Partner at Argos Wityu commented:" Argos Wityu is proud to have been chosen by TKH Group to further develop this very successful French connectivity solutions company. We are pleased that TKH Group will remain invested in the operations. We will strive to preserve the group's DNA, developing its market-leader identity and the value-add brought to its customers through its strong offer of products and services, and to structure its growth."Haaksbergen, May 31, 2023For further information:Jacqueline LentermanInvestor Relationsj.lenterman@tkhgroup.comTel: +31(0)53 5732901 Data warehousing experts, including the Co-creator of Apache Arrow (>65 million downloads a month) and Co-founder of Dremio, announce a seed funding round of $20M, along with free access to an entirely new frontier within the modern data stack. SANTA CLARA, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Sundeck is announcing the public preview of their SaaS Query Engineering Platform. The platform provides data engineers an entirely new way to work with Snowflake in combination with their favorite existing tools. Several simple data engineering goals have historically been surprisingly difficult to achieve. Some examples: Sundeck Available Now Stop users from accidentally running billion record queries. Introduce custom syntax or hints to make analysts more productive. Automatically route queries amongst different warehouses based on the nature of the query or the current load on the system. Prior to Sundeck, these things were difficult to do. Now they're easy. A New Frontier for the Modern Data Stack dbt made programmatic data transformation open and extensible. Building against this set of principles sparked a creative renaissance in data engineering. Sundeck applies those same principles to all tools that send queries to Snowflake. The relationship between tools and the Snowflake Data Cloud is now open and accessible for data engineers to adapt as they see fit. Sundeck Hooks, a Natural Extension to Snowflake To enable query engineering, Sundeck provides a collection of query hooks. These can capture queries and take action on them before (or after) they execute in Snowflake. The decision of when to intercede and which hooks to execute are entirely configurable by data engineers. Hooks fire based on conditions like the nature of the query, the tables involved or the submitting user. Example hooks include updating query text, executing secondary Snowflake queries, rejecting operations due to policy and routing queries to alternative warehouses. To make things simple, Sundeck comes preconfigured with multiple recipes including: Warehouse Optimization Adaptive dbt Routing User Help & Guardrails Granular Cost Control Adding New Query Syntax Secure & Compatible Sundeck is built to work just like Snowflake. That means all administration can be done with SQL and any tool that can talk to Snowflake also works with Sundeck. Additionally, Sundeck's unique private results path technology enables data engineers to block or enhance queries while ensuring data stays within an organization's boundaries. When combined with Sundeck's SOC 2 certification, organizations can rest assured that Sundeck is safe. Well-Funded, Built From Experience Sundeck is also announcing a seed funding round of $20 million from leading VCs and angels including NEA, Coatue and Factory. The team behind Sundeck includes multiple PhDs, more than 10 Apache PMC members, multiple past Apache VPs, and founding members of several disruptive open source technologies including Apache Arrow, Apache Calcite, Apache Phoenix and Apache Drill as well as the Co-founder and former CTO of Dremio. The Sundeck technology is built on Substrait (substrait.io), a new Apache-licensed OSS initiative built to abstract query plans between systems and contributed to by people working at Intel, Microsoft, Meta, Datadog, Voltron, Sundeck and many other tech companies. Available Now Sundeck is now available in multiple cloud regions for free. Post preview, Sundeck will offer a generous free tier as well as simple monthly pricing for premium features. Any Snowflake user can get started by going to sundeck.io (no special privileges or credit card are required). Contact Information Jacques Nadeau Co-founder press+jn@sundeck.io (408) 715-4220 Ryan Murray Co-founder press+rm@sundeck.io (408) 715-4220 SOURCE: Sundeck View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758227/Sundeck-Announces-the-Public-Availability-of-Its-Query-Engineering-Platform-for-Snowflake Q1 Production of 13,951 Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO") Q1 Adjusted EBITDA of $8.2 million and operating cash flow of $17.3 million Q1 AISC of $1,145 per ounce (All numbers reported in US dollars) TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Cerrado Gold Inc. (TSX.V:CERT)(OTCQX:CRDOF) ("Cerrado" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the operational and financial results for the first quarter 2023 ("Q1/23") at its Minera Don Nicolas ("MDN") gold project in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina and report on its ongoing activities at the Monte Do Carmo gold project ("MDC") in Brazil. Production results at MDN were previously released on April 24, 2023. The Company's quarterly financial results are reported and available on SEDAR as well as on the Company's website (www.cerradogold.com). Q1 2023 Minera Don Nicolas ("MDN") Operational Highlights: Gold production of 13,951 GEO in Q1/23, a 3% improvement year-on-year ("yoy") Operating margin of $6.8 million and operating cash flows of $17.3 million in the first quarter AISC of $1,145 per ounce during Q1/23 Mark Brennan, CEO and Chairman, stated: "These results demonstrate another solid quarter of production and operating performance from the team at MDN. We are now looking forward to the next stage of growth at MDN from the ramp up of our initial heap leach project at Las Calandrias which is on schedule for first gold production in June. In addition, work to complete the feasibility study at the Monte Do Carmo project in Brazil is progressing well, with completion expected in June. We expect the feasibility study to demonstrate the significant value of MDC as well as highlight the robust growth profile we expect to see in the coming years." First Quarter 2023 Operational and Financial Performance Q1/23 and Full Year Operational Highlights Minera Don Nicolas The Company produced 13,951 GEO during the three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to 13,388 GEO in the three months ended March 31, 2022. Production was 3% higher in the three months ended March 31, 2023, due to higher recoveries. The average quarterly gold head grade of 4.59 g/t recorded in the first quarter of 2023 represents a 2% decrease as compared to the average head grade of 4.68 g/t in the first quarter of 2022. Gold recovery of 92% represents a 4% increase in recovery as compared to 88% recorded in the first quarter of 2022. Silver recovery of 67% was also 4% higher than the silver recovery achieved in the first quarter of 2022. During Q1/2023, the team continued exploration efforts to advance several green and brownfield targets with the aim of increasing mine life and expanding the overall resource endowment, while continuing to support the move to underground mining at Paloma. Las Calandrias Project During Q1/2023, work on the engineering and construction of the Las Calandrias heap leach project was completed and placement of ore on to the pad commenced in April 2023. The first gold production is expected in June 2023. The Calandrias Heap Leach is expected to add incremental production to MDN commencing in 2023 and is the first step in Cerrado's plans for growing production capacity in Argentina in the near term. All Argentinian projects continue to be funded by cash flow and local debt facilities. Monte Do Carmo Project, Brazil During Q1/2023, the Company, together with its numerous advisors, continued to progress the completion of a bankable feasibility study ("FS") expected by the end of June 2023. In addition, regional exploration continues on the greater project area aimed at growing the known resources and extending the potential mine life. During the quarter, the exploration focus has been on the Northern extension of the Serra Alta deposit and to the north of Gogo, as well as on generating more greenfield targets such as Divisa for ongoing development. The Preliminary License ("LP") was issued from the Instituto Natureza do Tocantins ("NATURATINS") on May 29, 2023 and the License of Installation/Construction ("LI") is expected to follow within 90 -120 days of the LP issuance. Q1/2023 Financial Highlights The Company generated revenue of $27.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, from the sale of 16,255 GEO at an average realized price per gold ounce sold of $1,696 and price per silver ounce sold of $22.83. For the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company generated revenue of $27.4 million from the sale of 15,044 GEO. Revenue from sales of gold and silver for the current period was slightly higher than the three months ended March 31, 2022, due to the higher number of ounces sold, offset by the lower realized price in the current period due to a one-time deferred revenue adjustment of $2.4 million recorded in Q1/2023. Revenue for the quarter without the deferred revenue adjustment was $29.9 million. Cash costs per ounce sold were $1,139 per ounce in the three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to cash costs per ounce sold of $1,049 per ounce in the three months ended March 31, 2022, a 9% increase. The 9% increase is a result of higher consumables and material costs compared to the first quarter of 2022. Cash provided by operating activities during the first quarter ended March 31, 2023, was $17.3 million compared to cash provided by operating activities of $8.8 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2022. Cash provided by operating activities before working capital changes in 2023 consisted of $12.6 million as compared to $6.6 million of cash provided by operating activities before working capital changes in 2022. Adjusted EBITDA was $8.2 million in the first quarter of 2023 as compared to $9.7 million in the first quarter of 2022. Current year adjusted EBITDA was slightly lower due to higher production and general and administrative costs, offset by higher cash sales in Q1/2023. Net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2023 was $7.4 million, as compared to a $3.4 million net income for the three months ended March 31, 2022, a difference of $10 million. The decrease in net income is primarily a result of an increase in tax expense of $2 million, a non-cash remeasurement loss on the secured notes and stream of $2.6 million, an increase in finance expense of $2.2 million and an increase in general and administrative expenses of $1.6 million recorded in the first quarter of 2023 as compared to the first quarter of 2022. Basic and diluted loss per share for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was $0.09, compared to the basic and diluted earnings per share of $0.04 for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a $0.13 per share decrease as a result of higher taxes, remeasurement loss on the secured notes and stream obligation and higher general and administrative costs. Mark Brennan Mike McAllister CEO and Chairman Vice President, Investor Relations Tel: +1-647-796-0023 Tel: +1-647-805-5662 mbrennan@cerradogold.com mmcallister@cerradogold.com About Cerrado Gold Cerrado is a Toronto based gold production, development and exploration company focused on gold projects in the Americas. The Company is the 100% owner of both the producing Minera Don Nicolas mine in Santa Cruz province, Argentina, and the highly prospective development project, Monte do Carmo located in Tocantins State, Brazil. Disclaimer NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation, all statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect ", "is expected ", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding the business and operations of Cerrado. In making the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, Cerrado has made certain assumptions, including, but not limited to the expected timing of commencement of gold production at Las Calandrias, the expectations of 2023 results as well as timing of completion of the FS and permitting milestones at the MDC project. Although Cerrado believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, Cerrado disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise. SOURCE: Cerrado Gold Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758214/Cerrado-Gold-Reports-Q1-Cashflow-and-Operating-Performance-at-Its-Minera-Don-Nicolas-Mine New global research from Jumio reveals disconnect between consumer awareness of generative AI and deepfakes and the risk these technologies pose to online security Jumio, the leading provider of automated, end-to-end identity proofing, risk assessment and compliance solutions, today released the Jumio 2023 Online Identity Study, the second installment of its annual global consumer research, conducted by Censuswide. This year's results highlight an understanding among consumers around how generative AI and deepfake technologies could accelerate identity fraud, and the subsequent need for digital identities for online verification and authentication. But consumers also appear to overestimate their ability to spot deepfakes, which can render them even more vulnerable to attack. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005395/en/ (Graphic: Business Wire) The study examined 8,055 adult consumers split evenly across the United Kingdom, United States, Singapore and Mexico. Over two-thirds (67%) say they are aware of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, DALL-E and Lensa AI which can produce fabricated content, including videos, images and audio. Awareness was highest among consumers in Singapore (87%) and lowest among those in the UK (56%). An underestimation of the sophistication of the technologies Awareness of generative AI and deepfakes among consumers is high 52% of respondents believe they could detect a deepfake video. This sentiment reflects overconfidence on the part of consumers, given the reality that deepfakes have reached a level of sophistication that prevents detection by the naked eye. This is concerning given that recent figures from UK Finance found that impersonation scams cost the UK 177 million in 2022. The research specifically called out how this has been driven by scams becoming harder to spot as warning signs, such as typos or fake-looking websites, are less prevalent due to the use of generative AI tools. In the U.S., consumers lost $2.6 billion to impersonation scams in 2022, up from $2.4 billion in 2021, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Jumio data also shows a steady uptick in the use of increasingly sophisticated deepfakes across the globe and across industries, with a heavier presence in the payments and crypto sectors. "A lot of people seem to think they can spot a deepfake. While there are certainly tell-tale signs to look for, deepfakes are getting exponentially better all the time and are becoming increasingly difficult to detect without the aid of AI," said Stuart Wells, Jumio's chief technology officer. "While AI-powered technology will increasingly be required by businesses to spot and protect their networks and customers from deepfakes, consumers can protect themselves by treating provocative images, videos and audio with skepticism. Some quick research will usually uncover whether it's a fake or not." Awareness shifts to understanding of potential harmful use As consumers become more aware of these technologies, there is also an emerging understanding of how they could be used to fuel identity theft. Over half (57%) believe that online identity theft will become easier as a result, and consumers in Singapore showed the highest level of understanding of their potential harmful use (73%). These levels decrease among consumers in Mexico (62%), the U.S. (49%) and the UK (43%). The onus is on businesses to educate and better protect "Organizations have a duty to educate their customers on the nuances of generative AI technologies to help them develop more realistic expectations of their ability to detect deepfakes," said Philipp Pointner, Jumio's chief of digital identity. "At the same time, even the best education will never be able to completely stop a fraudster's use of evolving technologies. Online organizations must look to implement multimodal, biometric-based verification systems that can detect deepfakes and prevent stolen personal information from being used. Encouragingly, our research indicated strong consumer appetite for this form of identity verification, which businesses should act on fast." The survey found that over two-thirds (68%) of consumers are open to using a digital identity to verify themselves online. The top sectors where they would prefer a digital identity over a physical ID (like a driver's license or passport) are financial services (43%), government (38%) and healthcare (35%). Find additional data and insights here. The research was conducted by Censuswide, with 8,055 consumers split evenly across the United Kingdom, United States, Singapore and Mexico. The fieldwork took place April 4-6, 2023. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society which is based on the ESOMAR principles. About Jumio Jumio helps you to know and trust your customers online. From account opening to ongoing monitoring, the Jumio KYX Platform provides advanced identity proofing, risk assessment and compliance solutions to accurately establish, maintain and reassert trust. Leveraging advanced technology including automation, biometrics, AI/machine learning, liveness detection and no-code orchestration with hundreds of data sources, Jumio helps organizations fight fraud and financial crime, onboard good customers faster and meet regulatory compliance including KYC and AML. Jumio has processed more than 1 billion transactions spanning over 200 countries and territories from real-time web and mobile transactions. Based in Sunnyvale, California, Jumio operates globally with offices and representation in North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East and has been the recipient of numerous awards for innovation. Jumio is backed by Centana Growth Partners, Great Hill Partners and Millennium Technology Value Partners. For more information, please visit jumio.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005395/en/ Contacts: U.S. Media Contact Elena Philippou 10Fold Communications jumio@10fold.com 925-639-0409 Europe Media Contact Gemma Lingham FleishmanHillard UK gemma.lingham@fleishman.com +44-752-569-9347 APAC Media Contact Luke Nazir FINN Partners Luke.Nazir@finnpartners.com +65 8139 2504 LATAM Media Contact Karina Duran Nasci Comunicacion karina@nasci.com.mx +52 55 5139 5482 LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Licensing Expo, the largest global influential event dedicated to licensing, IP extension and brand collaborations, shares its intentional initiatives across the three-day show selected specifically to engage guests through interaction and purpose, while serving the global community at the 2023 expo, to take place June 13-15 at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. "It is critical that as we converge together in Las Vegas for Licensing Expo, we take the time to collectively recognize that our brands can make a difference in others daily lives. Within the Global Licensing Group, we are always striving to find ways to engage and generate action that will add value for our audience and find purpose in serving others," notes Ella Haynes, Event Director, Global Licensing Group, Informa Markets.? Licensing Expo, Crayola, and the Ronald McDonald House Charities are partnering in a "Spread Kindness" campaign for the Day of Purpose. On Thursday June 15th from 1-2 p.m. in the South Seas Ballrooms, children from the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Greater Las Vegas will get creative with Crayola "Colors of Kindness" coloring activities. The Crayola crayons and coloring books have special-edition words of kindness, encouraging everyone to create with love. Additionally, the kids will have a special meet and greet with CARRIE, JJ, and MIKEY from Laser provided through the Mascot Company. The mission of RMHC of Greater Las Vegas is to create and support programs that directly improve the health, education, and well-being of children in our community. The Ronald McDonald House is the cornerstone RHMC program and provides temporary housing for families who travel to Las Vegas to receive critical medical treatment for their children. June marks the celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Month. In support, Licensing Expo will host a Pride Cafe on the show floor alongside nonprofit the It Gets Better Project, to support LGBTQ+ youth through donations, aiming to uplift, empower and connect LGBTQ+ young people around the globe. The Cafe will host an on-site representative, educational materials and scannable QR codes for visitors and exhibitors to donate. Guests are also able to donate ahead of the event through the It Gets Better dedicated Licensing Expo portal . Famous Canadian bridalwear designer, Justina McCaffrey and Operation Prom National Network (OPNN), are partnering to raise awareness of the needs of at-risk youth as teens and families struggle to afford the experience of the important milestone of prom. The initiative combines a giveaway of a custom-made Justina McCaffrey bridal gown or suit, valued at $20,000, facilitated by McCaffrey's licensing agency Cronus Global, with support from Global Licensing Group. Licensing Expo attendees will have the opportunity to access the drawing homepage in the Fashion Showroom Cafe and at the Cronus Global Booth E196. Operation Prom National Network, founded in 2005 by former event planner Noel D'Allacco, has grown to 17 locations nationwide and now serves as a resource for students, parents and schools to find organizations and community groups that can provide free formal wear to teens in need. OPNN is open to all and will not turn away any student from events or services regardless of race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. To date, OPNN has helped thousands of students attend their prom at little or no cost. Licensing Expo's 2022 Magic Wheelchair reveal. This year Licensing Expo in collaboration with Dangling Carrot Creative and Magic Wheelchair, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing custom youth wheelchairs to families at no cost, will be surprising a special guest with a customized reimagined wheelchair. Join us at the Spotlight Booth, J170, on Wednesday June 14th from 10:15-10:30 a.m. for the unveiling of this special child's favorite IP brought to life. Throughout the three-day event, Licensing Expo also introduces the " License to Move" program , which aims to encourage individuals to physical commitments of activity such as a dedicated run, walk, or cycle across small distances with charitable donations. In partnership with licensing industry charity partner The Light Fund, all proceeds directly benefit annually selected international beneficiaries across social, well-being, community and economic programs. At the event, guests will be able to submit daily step counts into the leader board and donate on-site. Since 2004, The Light Fund is a registered charity run by individuals throughout the licensing industry, which raises funds to support children and adults, with over $2 million generated for hundreds of different charity projects. Lastly, with sustainability as a core pillar of impact with Informa Markets Global Licensing Group, Licensing Expo will partner with international publication Products of Change to host Industry Framework discussions, an agenda-setting resource to help licensors, licensees, agents, manufacturers, service providers, and retailers create a clear-cut pathway to sustainable development with a step-by-step process and skill set to implement incremental and impactful change across our businesses and the products we make. Two years in the making, the Industry Framework is a co-collaborative project that utilizes cross-sector expertise to develop a practical set of future-fit guidelines, for the industry, by the industry. To learn more about philanthropic resources at Licensing Expo, please visit? www.licensingexpo.com .?? About Licensing Expo:?? Launched in 1980, Licensing Expo is the world's largest and most influential annual tradeshow dedicated to licensing and brand extension. Every year, more than 5,000 brands and 16,000 retailers, licensees, manufacturers, distributors, and licensing agents attend Licensing Expo from more than 70 countries. Licensing Expo is a part of the Global Licensing Group at Informa Markets, the licensing industry's leading tradeshow organizer and media partner. Its mission is to provide licensing opportunities around the world by bringing brands and products together.?? About Global Licensing Group:?? The Global Licensing Group at Informa Markets, a subsidiary of Informa plc (LON:INF), is the licensing industry's leading tradeshow organizer and media partner. Its mission is to provide licensing opportunities around the world by bringing brands and products together. The following events and information products are produced for the licensing industry by the Global Licensing Group at Informa Markets: Licensing Expo, Brand Licensing Europe, Licensing Expo Shanghai, Brand & Licensing Innovation Summit and License Global. Global Licensing Group events are sponsored by Licensing International.?? Media Contact: Jordan Douglas? Informa Markets Licensing licensingpr@informa.com SOURCE: INFORMA MARKETS - GLOBAL LICENSING GROUP (Licensing Expo) View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758184/Licensing-Expo-Announces-Day-of-Purpose-Agenda-Focused-on-Social-Responsibility Achieving partnership and data-driven capabilities: Soarits PR and Niro IMS Solution join forces to enhance collaboration, providing data analytics and personalized brand experiences. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - On May 18th, during the 30th Franchise International Malaysia 2023 event held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Soarits PR and Niro IMS Solution signed a memorandum of understanding to further strengthen their collaboration and lay an important foundation for the system upgrade of their respective businesses. The collaboration aims to enhance brand positioning and competitiveness while offering precise marketing strategies and expanding cross-border opportunities. According to the cooperation agreement, Niro IMS Solution will provide Soarits PR with additional technical support. This technical support includes offering visual data analytic services to clients, helping them understand critical metrics such as engagement rates and advertising asset rates, as well as the latest market trends and most effective advertising models. Through intuitive data visualization, Niro IMS Solution will present the results of data analysis in diagrams to ease clients in evaluating the value of their brands. The data can be utilized in annual financial reports and is applicable to companies preparing for listing or financing. This will aid clients in formulating appropriate strategies and actions, further solidifying their brands. Enhancing data-driven capabilities and personalising the brand experience Isabella Dai, the founder of Soarits PR, is very positive about the collaboration with Niro IMS Solution. She emphasizes the significant changes in media and communication in the digital age, requiring more precise marketing strategies and personalized branding to attract target audiences. Therefore, Soarits PR has partnered with Niro IMS Solution to combine its abundant media resources with Niro IMS Solution's expertise in data analytics to enhance data-driven capabilities. "Our goal is to provide clients with more precise marketing strategies and personalized brand experiences, offering targeted solutions based on data. This partnership not only strengthens our brand positioning in the market but also ensures our competitiveness in the digital era." She also adds that in addition to the aforementioned services, Soarits PR also focuses on localization and replicating successful marketing strategies in Malaysia. "We adapt our marketing strategies based on the local market and cultural differences. One of our approaches is introducing the live-streaming marketing model from China into Malaysia, utilizing this innovative method to showcase our clients' products or services". She says, "We recognize the influence of key opinion leaders (KOLs) who have a large following and fan base. We leverage their influence to enhance brand awareness. By collaborating with KOLs who align with our clients' brand values and utilizing their expertise in the online realm, we are able to effectively reach out to the target audience and provide cross-border opportunities for our clients, enabling them to expand their business globally". She cites the example of their subsidiary, unitestar.media, which aims to be a one-stop media buying agency, enabling clients to directly choose suitable media platforms or resources and precisely target their audience. Emphasis on the introduction of data-driven solutions and cases Marzuki, the founder of Niro IMS Solution, is also excited about the partnership with Soarits PR. He highlights that Soarits PR is a media influence platform with a global reach of 100,000 media resources, including 50,000 soft media, 20,000 influencers from around the world, 5,000 celebrities, and various other news media outlets. On the other hand, Niro IMS Solution focuses on providing data-driven solutions for clients. "For years, the Niro IMS team has been committed to offering powerful data analytic and reporting capabilities to assist franchise businesses in understanding their operations and making informed decisions. By conducting a detailed analysis of data and key metrics, companies can uncover potential business opportunities and improve their marketing strategies. Moreover, the generated reports not only present data in a clear manner but also provide guidance to facilitate effective business analysis and evaluation." "Through our collaboration, we will make reference from the case studies from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan to develop successful business transformation solutions and provide reliable data support, thereby creating value for Malaysian franchise businesses." According to the agreement, both parties will commence their collaboration this year. This partnership will facilitate resource sharing, technology exchange, and market expansion, creating more opportunities for business growth. Seminar to explore the importance of data and valuation awareness The 30th Franchise International Malaysia 2023 also featured an insightful seminar on data and valuation awareness. Professional speakers from various organizations shared their experiences and insights in the field of data analysis, discussing the significance of data in the modern business environment and its application. The seminar introduced best practices in data analysis to the attendees, delving into the key role of data in decision-making and business development. Through case studies and real-life experiences, the participants gained an understanding of how to extract valuable insights from vast amounts of data to support strategic decision-making and business growth. This enhanced their understanding and application of data-driven decision-making. Isabella Dai, the founder of Soarist PR, signed a memorandum of cooperation with Marzuki, the founder of Niro. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/167852_1ed5dd7404eb1aab_001full.jpg Contact Info: Name: David Wang Email: david@manprpower.com Organization: Manprpower Ltd Website: http://www.manprpower.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/167852 If authorities advise or order you to evacuate, you should leave immediately. But if you havent been ordered to evacuate, you might be safer at home. Some evacuation orders are meant for those in low-lying areas vulnerable storm surge and flooding. If youre on higher ground, you might not need to evacuate. See the storm surge maps and evacuation zones from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management to determine where your home or office falls. If you stay at home Local instructions will order you to stay where you are or shelter in place. Remain inside until emergency officials say its safe to leave. Close doors and windows. Follow your family emergency plan. Here are some tips for developing one. Locate your disaster kit. Tune to a local radio station or monitor your localitys emergency notification system for information. KBI's new model will enhance operational efficiencies, drive strategic clarity, and accelerate innovation for global biopharma customers JSR Life Sciences today announced that KBI Biopharma, Inc. (KBI) and Selexis SA are consolidating as one organization under the KBI Biopharma name to accelerate innovation and growth for its global biopharma customers. The new structure will enable integrated, seamless solutions for customers, cell line development through process development, to clinical and commercial cGMP manufacturing services for mammalian programs. The streamlined operational approach supports customers in rapidly accelerating drug development and manufacturing, creating greater flexibility, efficiencies, and a simplified partner experience. By bringing together the capabilities and expertise of KBI Biopharma and Selexis, customers can reduce manufacturing risks and deliver essential medicines to patients faster. "The fusion of KBI and Selexis as one business advances KBI into an exciting strategic growth phase," said Tim Lowery, President of JSR Life Sciences. "This natural operational strategy shift is pivotal for KBI and Selexis customers that count on the wide range of capabilities and services to accelerate their evolving manufacturing and drug development needs." The combined organization will leverage the collective knowledge, scientific expertise, and industry-leading technical acumen of KBI as an important part of the entire JSR Life Sciences ecosystem. It allows KBI to be a cutting-edge partner for biopharma companies across the globe, propelling KBI forward in becoming a next-generation CDMO. Reorganizing and simplifying the operating model to offer a seamless experience expedites innovation for KBI's global clients, setting them on a strong forward path. "The operational consolidation of these two exceptional companies represents a major shift in how KBI Biopharma will operate moving forward," said J.D. Mowery, Chief Executive Officer of KBI Biopharma. "By providing fully integrated solutions for our customers, we will be a stronger partner that can help them each reach their goals more efficiently." Selexis' proprietary cell line development platform will be branded as the SUREtechnology Platform. Mowery will continue to lead as CEO of the combined organization. Employees will report to the KBI executive team in its entirety. About JSR Life Sciences, LLC A business unit of JSR Corporation, JSR Life Science LLC is changing human health as a strategic partner and pathfinder for the life sciences industry. Rooted in a history of materials innovation, JSR LS provides specialized products, materials, and services to biopharmaceutical companies and academic researchers. Together with its world-class affiliates, JSR LS offers best-in-class integrated services that de-risk molecule selection, accelerate biologic development timelines, increase clinical success rates, and develop novel in vitro diagnostics. JSR LS's global network of affiliates includes Crown Bioscience, KBI Biopharma, Inc., Selexis SA, and MEDICAL BIOLOGICAL LABORATORIES CO., LTD. The company operates R&D and applications labs, manufacturing facilities, and sales offices worldwide. For more information, visit JSRLifeSciences.com. About KBI Biopharma, Inc. KBI Biopharma, Inc., a JSR Life Sciences company, together with its affiliates, is a global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) providing fully integrated, accelerated drug development and biologics manufacturing services and expertise to life science companies. As a global leader in mammalian cell line development, with best-in-class modular technology and highly specialized solutions, KBI enables the life sciences industry to rapidly discover, develop and commercialize innovative medicines and vaccines. With each of its 500+ client partners, KBI works closely to personalize and rapidly accelerate drug development programs. Global partners are utilizing KBI's technologies to advance more than 160 drug candidates in preclinical and clinical development and the manufacture of ten commercial products. Built upon a foundation of world-class analytics capabilities and extensive scientific and technical expertise, KBI delivers robust process development and clinical and commercial cGMP manufacturing services for mammalian, microbial, and cell therapy programs. Recognized for quality manufacturing, KBI helps partners advance drug candidates to the market. KBI serves its global partners with eight locations in Europe and the USA. More information is available at www.kbibiopharma.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005198/en/ Contacts: KBI Biopharma, Inc. Company Inquiries Leah Farmer KBI Biopharma, Inc. lfarmer@kbibiopharma.com KBI Biopharma, Inc. Media Inquiries Blair Ciecko CG Life bciecko@cglife.com TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Lahontan Gold Corp (TSXV:LG)(OTCQB:LGCXF) (the "Company" or "Lahontan") is pleased to announce that it has acquired an additional 794 hectares of mineral rights at its West Santa Fe Project, located only 15 km West of Lahontan's Flagship asset, the Santa Fe Mine, in Nevada's prolific Walker Lane. West Santa Fe now covers a of total 19.7 km2, the new mineral rights were acquired by low-cost staking of 95 unpatented lode mining claims by Lahontan's technical and management team. Kimberly Ann, Lahontan Founder, CEO, President, and Director commented: "Our geologic team studied the data we acquired by optioning the West Santa Fe Project and concluded that there is room for significant resource expansion outside the previously existing claim group. The new unpatented mining claims also cover areas that could be used for potential future mining infrastructure such as heap-leach pads and waste rock dumps. Lahontan's land holdings in Nevada now total 57 km2, giving the Company a dominant land position in the Walker Lane." New unpatented lode mining claims (DORA 1-95), West Santa Fe Project, Nevada West Santa Fe hosts an oxidized gold-silver mineralized system in a geologic setting similar to the Santa Fe Mine. Previous exploration drilling at West Santa Fe totals over 13,000 metres in 171 drill holes; only five holes are deeper than 165 metres. Preliminary modeling of historical drill hole data by Lahontan geologists outlines a shallow gold and silver system with a sufficient volume to host 0.5 to 1.0M ounces of oxidized gold and silver mineralization in an open-pit mining configuration1. The new unpatented mining claims will be subject to the same 1.5% NSR Royalty terms outlined in the previously announced Binding Term Sheet and option agreement for West Santa Fe, including the low-cost buydown provision (please see Lahontan Gold press release dated May 15, 2023 for more details on the NSR royalty). Qualified Persons Review The technical and scientific information contained within this news release have been reviewed and approved by Quentin J. Browne, MSc., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 policy. The Qualified Person has not completed sufficient work to verify the historical information on West Santa Fe, the Company believes the historical resource estimates to be both relevant and reliable. The information provides an indication of the exploration potential of West Santa Fe but may not be representative of expected results. About Lahontan Gold Corp. Lahontan Gold Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company that holds, through its US subsidiaries, three top-tier gold and silver exploration properties in the Walker Lane of mining friendly Nevada. Lahontan's flagship property, the 19 km2 Santa Fe Mine, had past production of 345,000 ounces of gold and 711,000 ounces of silver between 1988 and 1995 from open pit mines utilizing heap-leach processing (Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, 1995). The Santa Fe Mine has an Indicated Mineral Resource of 1,112,000 oz Au Eq (grading 1.14 g/t Au Eq) and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 544,000 oz Au Eq (grading 1.00 g/t Au Eq), all pit constrained (Au Eq is inclusive of recovery, please see Santa Fe Project Technical Report*). The Company will continue to aggressively explore Santa Fe during 2023 and begin the process of evaluating development scenarios to bring the Santa Fe Mine back into production. Quentin J. Browne, P.Geo., Consulting Geologist to Lahontan Gold Corp., is the Qualified Person for the Company and approved the technical content of this news release. For more information, please visit our website: www.lahontangoldcorp.com * Please see the Santa Fe Project Technical Report, Authors: Trevor Rabb and Darcy Baker, P. Geos. Effective Date: December 7, 2022, Report Date: March 2, 2023. The Technical Report is available on the Company's website and SEDAR. On behalf of the Board of Directors Kimberly Ann Founder, CEO, President, and Director FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Lahontan Gold Corp. Kimberly Ann Founder, Chief Executive Officer, President, Director Phone: 1-530-414-4400 Email: Kimberly.ann@lahontangoldcorp.com Website: www.lahontangoldcorp.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: 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. Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a varietyof risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the TSXV. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties that could affect financial results is contained in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com 1 The exploration target at West Santa Fe is conceptual in nature and is based on the size of the known mineralized zones, and gold and silver grades from historical drilling. The qualified person has not completed sufficient work to verify the historical information on West Santa Fe and this information should not be relied on. SOURCE: Lahontan Gold Corp. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758183/Lahontan-Expands-West-Santa-Fe-Project-to-197-km2-by-Staking-Now-Controls-57-km2-in-the-Walker-Lane Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - NORTEC MINERALS CORP. (TSXV: NVT) ("Nortec" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the completion of a Versatile Time Electromagnetic ("VTEM") geophysical survey at the Sturgeon Lake VMS Project in Ontario. The 2023 survey has initially identified fourteen (14) high-priority target areas that host coincident magnetic and EM anomalies in a favorable setting for VMS-mineralization. The Sturgeon Lake VMS Property lies immediately north and adjacent to Glencore's past-producing mines and is host to the highly prospective continuation of the volcanogenic massive sulphide ("VMS") producing volcanic stratigraphy. Numerous historical drill intercepts on the property host anomalous zinc - copper mineralization and favourable VMS geology, with drill holes H-9 (Ontario Assessment File 52G15NW0086) and C-81-2 (Ontario Assessment File 52G15NW0038) also displaying strong potential for both copper and gold-rich VMS systems in two highly prospective areas, hosting intercepts of 3.1% Cu / 0.3m and 5.3g/t Au / 0.9m respectively. The Sturgeon Lake VMS mining camp is host to Glencore's five past producing zinc - copper - lead - silver - gold base metal mines, having a total combined production of 19.8Mt @ 8.50% Zn, 1.06% Cu, 0.91% Pb and 119.7g/t Ag (Franklin, J. M., 1996. Volcanic-associated massive sulphide base metals in Eckstrand, O. R., Sinclair, W. D., Thorpe, R.I. (eds.), Geol. Survey Canada Geology of Canada 8, 158-183.). The camp is located within the prolific Sturgeon Lake greenstone belt in the Wabioon sub- province of Ontario's Superior province, approximately 270 kilometers northwest of Thunder Bay. "The VTEM survey at Sturgeon Lake was a huge success with results displaying numerous unexplored to underexplored areas within the VMS belt that host coincident magnetic and electromagnetic anomalies, which are favorable exploration targets for VMS deposits. The results fit within our historical compilation and understanding of the geology within the mining camp, and we are keen to continue to systematically advance the project towards a maiden drill program." stated Cameron Bell, Vice President of Exploration. The target areas consist of coincident magnetic highs and zones of high electromagnetic (EM) conductance (as per SFz15 [15 Hz] conductance). Figure 2 shows target areas with conductivity highs and coincident magnetic anomalies. These target areas do not represent individual drill targets, but rather areas of focus that require ground truthing. Individual drill targets will be defined based on coincident soil geochemical anomalies, second order EM conductors, magnetic anomalies (potentially including Mag lows) and geological observations, including alteration and lithogeochemical characteristics. Conductors may be confirmed by ground-based EM surveys depending on logistics and individual conductor interpretation. The 2023 field season has begun and includes a soil and prospecting program that has been designed to ground truth the fourteen (14) high-priority target areas and to help prioritize additional geophysics and a maiden drill program on the project. The soil/prospecting program is testing for elevated/anomalous values of Cu-Zn-Au mineralization as well as specific alteration patterns characteristic of VMS mineralization within the historic and well-endowed Sturgeon Lake VMS mining camp. Planned grids for the soil/prospecting program are shown in Figure 3. A permit application for a Fall 2023/Winter 2023-2024 drilling and ground EM has been applied for and is being reviewed by the Ontario Ministry of Northern Development and Mines. Figure 1: Geology compilation with location of 2023 VTEM coincident magnetic and electromagnetic target areas in red. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4874/168058_4228749634ee3bb3_001full.jpg Figure 2: 2023 VTEM results (SFz15 EM displayed) with location of coincident magnetic and electromagnetic target areas in hashed black. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4874/168058_4228749634ee3bb3_002full.jpg Figure 3: 2023 soil survey grid over newly identified high-priority VMS target areas. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4874/168058_4228749634ee3bb3_003full.jpg Qualified Person The technical information in this release has been reviewed and verified by Cameron Bell, P. Geo., Vice President of Exploration of the Company, and the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. About Nortec Minerals Corp. Nortec is a mineral exploration company that holds 100% interests in two exploration stage critical mineral (zinc) projects, namely the Mattagami River Zinc and the Sturgeon Lake VMS properties, both located in Ontario, Canada. Additionally, the Company holds a 16.4% interest in the Tammela Gold and Tammela Lithium projects in Southwest Finland. Additional information can be found on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com and its website at www.nortecminerals.com On behalf of the Company, "Sara Hills" Chief Financial Officer info@nortecminerals.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. 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. Such factors include, among others, risks associated with project development; the need for additional financing; operational risks associated with mining and mineral processing; fluctuations in palladium and other commodity prices; title matters; environmental liability claims and insurance; reliance on key personnel; the absence of dividends; competition; dilution; the volatility of our common share price and volume; and tax consequences to Canadian and U.S. Shareholders. 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/168058 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Q2 Metals Corp. (TSXV: QTWO) (OTCQB: QUEXF) (FSE: 458) ("Q2" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has initiated Phase 2 of the 2023 exploration campaign, including surface mapping/prospecting, rock sampling, airborne magnetic and LiDAR surveys at its flagship Mia Lithium Property (the "Mia Property"), located in James Bay, Quebec. Q2 geologists have mobilized to the camp and will immediately begin work on the approximately 8-km long lithium exploration trend. "Our geology team has arrived at the Mia Lithium Property, and we are expecting a busy and productive summer," said Q2 Vice President of Exploration, Neil McCallum. "We are ramping up our work on the ground to expand upon the known high-grade spodumene pegmatite on the property, discover new occurrences and identify drill targets along the trend. We look forward to sharing the results of the program as we proceed." The primary objective of the surface mapping/prospecting and rock sampling program is to explore and identify drill targets along the approximately 8-km long lithium trend, located within a greenstone belt where numerous occurrences of high-grade spodumene pegmatites were sampled at a reconnaissance-scale in 2021 and 2022. The high resolution airborne magnetic surveying will provide property-wide coverage that is intended to guide the exploration team to define potential pegmatite bodies at depth by outlining regional geological corridors and magnetic susceptibility variations that may directly be caused by pegmatite intrusions. The Company will also complete a property-wide LiDAR survey that provides high-quality topographic control and will add to the pegmatite targeting toolkit, providing precise local surface control for detailed geological modelling at the drilling stage. The summer work program will be based out of a local Wemindji owned and operated camp. Additionally, the Company has secured all the required drilling and helicopter contracts for its inaugural drill program this summer at the Mia Property. Qualified Person Neil McCallum, B.Sc., P.Geol, is a registered permit holder with the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec and Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, and has reviewed the technical information in this news release. Mr. McCallum is a director of Q2. About Q2 Metals Corp Q2 Metals Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company currently advancing exploration of its 8,668-ha flagship Mia Lithium Property in the James Bay area of Quebec, Canada which is host to the Mia Li-1 and Mia Li-2 occurrences which grade 0.47% Li2O and 2.27% Li2O respectively. The Company also owns the Stellar Lithium Property with 77 claims totaling 3,972-ha, located approximately six kilometres north of its Mia Lithium Property in James Bay. Q2 is also exploring the highly prospective Big Hill and Titan gold projects covering approximately 110 km in the Talgai Goldfields of the broader Warwick-Texas District, hosting 54 high-grade historical gold mines. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Alicia Milne President & CEO Alicia@Q2metals.com Kevin Bottomley Director Kevin@Q2metals.com Jason McBride Corporate Communications Jason@Q2metals.com Telephone: 1 (800) 482-7560 E-mail: info@Q2metals.com Follow the Company: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian legislation. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "estimates", "plans", "may", "should", "would", "will", "potential", "scheduled" or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Accordingly, all statements in this news release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations and orientations regarding the future including, without limitation, any statements or plans regard the geological prospects of the Company's properties and the future exploration endeavors of the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, unsuccessful exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same. Readers are cautioned that mineral exploration and development of mines is an inherently risky business and accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors are discussed in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for its recently completed fiscal period, which is available under Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.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/168102 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Ophir Gold Corp. (TSXV: OPHR) (OTCQB: KPZIF) (FSE: 80M) ("Ophir" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has commenced its inaugural exploration campaign on the Radis Lithium Property (the "Property"), located in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay, Quebec. The Property is located approximately 70 km east-northeast of Wemindji and proximal to the all-season Billy-Diamond Highway and hydro-power line infrastructure in the region. The 2023 surface exploration program includes prospecting, rock sampling, and geological mapping, as well as a Property-wide LiDAR and orthphoto survey and interpretation. Results will be used to prioritize drill targets for the inaugural drill program expected summer 2023. Objectives of the surface program are to evaluate the historically documented references to a "lithium pegmatite" and potential spodumene-bearing pegmatite (collectively, the 'showings') on the Property identified following a recent data compilation completed by the Company (see new release dated March 14, 2023). The two showings are mapped approximately 800 m apart along strike within the same greenstone belt and have never been evaluated for their lithium potential. The Company will prospect and map these showings in detail, as well as areas along trend and proximal to identify further occurrences of potentially lithium-bearing pegmatite. The field crews will also prospect and further map the historically documented pegmatite dykes with tourmaline (a common lithium pegmatite pathfinder mineral) situated proximal to a series of anomalous lithium in soil samples, and located approximately 2.5 km southwest of the potential spodumene-bearing zone (Figure 1). Additionally, regional prospecting will be completed targeting areas within the Yasinski Greenstone Belt on the Property considered the most prospective to host lithium pegmatite. In addition to the prospecting, rock sampling, and geological mapping program, the Company also intends to complete a LiDAR and orthophoto survey over the entire Property. The acquired data, coupled with results from initial geological mapping and rock sampling over the Property, will be used to guide the next stage of exploration including additional surface exploration and drill hole planning. The historically documented pegmatite/lithium occurrences on the Radis Property are on geological strike of the roughly 8-10 km discontinuous pegmatite outcrop trend present on the adjacent Mia Property, which is host to the Mia Li-1 (2.65% Li2O), Mia Li-2 (2.27% Li2O), and Carte 1879 (1.65% Li2O) lithium occurrences (Figure 2). The 2023 exploration program represents the first targeted lithium exploration at the Radis Property, which is considered to have a strong lithium pegmatite exploration potential based on the local geological setting, the presence of pegmatites that have never been sampled for lithium, and the documented lithium occurrences on the Property that are immediately on strike with the adjacent Mia and Carte 1879 lithium showings. Management cautions that past results or discoveries on adjacent properties (i.e. Mia) are sourced from publicly available information, have not been idenpendently verified by the Company and may not necessarily be indicative to the presence of mineralization on the Company's properties (i.e. Radis). Figure 1: Radis Property geology, lithium occurrences, and soil anomalies To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6338/168110_a95cd41a64bf3a28_001full.jpg Figure 2: Radis Property Satellite Imagery Prospecting Targets To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6338/168110_a95cd41a64bf3a28_002full.jpg Shawn Wescott, Company CEO, comments: "We are very excited for the commencement of the inaugural field exploration at Radis, which will see the first focused lithium exploration program on the Property. We are highly encouraged by what the team has discovered as a result of the data compilation earlier this year, which will help expedite the sampling program. In particular, the identification of an additional zone that is indicated may contain spodumene, along trend of the previously mapped lithium pegmatite on the Property, highlights the strong potential of the Radis Property. Coupled with anomalous soil samples in the down ice direction and within the Yasinski Greenstone Belt, the historical data compilation has developed numerous targets over a 2.5 km strike length that has never been explored for lithium." Ophir also announces that, pursuant to its stock option plan, it has granted an aggregate of 225,000 options to purchase common shares in the capital of the Company to certain consultants of the Company, exercisable at a price of $0.30 per share for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of grant. Qualified Person The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Nathan Schmidt, P. Geo., Senior Geologist for Dahrouge Geological Consulting Ltd., and a Qualified Person under NI 43-101 on standards of disclosure for mineral projects, who has prepared and reviewed the content of this press release. The results discussed in this document are historical. An Ophir Gold Corp. qualified person has not performed sufficient work or data verification to validate these results in accordance with NI 43-101. Although the historical results may not be reliable, the Company nevertheless believes that they provide an indication of the property's potential and are relevant for any future exploration program. About the Radis Lithium Property In December 2022, the Company entered into an option agreement to earn a 100% interest in the Radis Property. The Radis Property consists of 152 claims totalling 7,850.3 hectares and is situated within a volcano-sedimentary sequence (i.e., a g greenstone belt) belonging to the Yasinski group. The greenstone belt over the Property contains at least one known lithium pegmatite and is considered highly prospective for additional lithium pegmatites, hosting a tight regional fold which may provide favourable zones of dilation for pegmatite emplacement. About the Company Ophir Gold Corp. is an exploration company focused on the exploration and development of the past producing Breccia Gold Property located in Lemhi County, Idaho. The Company has an option to earn a 100% interest in the Property over a three-year period from Canagold Resources Ltd. (formerly Canarc Resource Corp.) and DG Resource Management Ltd. The Company also has an option to earn a 100% interest in the Radis Lithium Property over a three-year period from Eastmain Resources Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Fury Gold Mines Limited. On behalf of the Board of Directors "Shawn Westcott" Ophir Gold Corp. For further information, please contact: Shawn Westcott, CEO Phone 1 (604) 365 6681 swestcott@ophirgoldcorp.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" (collectively referred to as "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 and include statements in this press release related to the exploration and discovery potential of the Property, the details of the planned exploration program on the Property, the strong lithium pegmatite exploration potential on the Property, the strong potential of the Radis Property, potential targets on the Property and the Company's future plans with respect to the Property. 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: 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 mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of technical reports, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price 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. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements 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. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168110 Eric Sprott's Ownership of Galleon Gold Increases to 21.45% Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Galleon Gold Corp. (TSXV: GGO) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement (the "Agreement") with 2176423 Ontario Ltd., (the "Vendor"), a corporation that is beneficially owned and controlled by Eric Sprott ("Eric Sprott"), to acquire the Vendor's 100% interest in a stockpile of mineralized material (the "Stockpile") located on the Neal Idaho Project, 27 km southeast of Boise, Idaho (the "Project") together with its 20% interest in the Project in consideration of the issuance by the Company to the Vendor of 2,000,000 common shares of Galleon Gold (the "Shares"). Upon closing of the transaction, the Company will hold a 100% leasehold interest in the Project and Eric Sprott's ownership of Galleon Gold will increase to 21.45%. The Stockpile, a 13,900-ton bulk sample, was derived from an open cut area in 2016-2017. As the material was trucked from the open cut to the Stockpile, approximately 741 samples were collected and assayed at an independent laboratory. Results of the sampling indicate the Stockpile graded at 0.132 opt (4.54 gpt Au), equivalent to approximately 1,835 ounces of gold in-situ. The Company is investigating various transport and processing options to determine the best means of handling the Stockpile material. This transaction paves the way for a simpler operating structure for the Project, while enabling Eric Sprott to participate in the Project's advancement through his equity ownership in Galleon Gold. The transaction is subject to final approval from the TSX Venture Exchange and the Shares are subject to a hold period of four months and a day under applicable Canadian securities laws. Comment from CEO David Russell, President and CEO of Galleon Gold commented, "We are very pleased that Eric continues to demonstrate his confidence in Galleon Gold. He has consistently supported the Company since 2019 through significant investments. We look forward to driving value for him and all our shareholders as we advance both the Neal and our West Cache Gold Projects." The transaction constitutes a "related party transaction" for the Company for the purposes of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") as Mr. Sprott owns more than 10% of the Company's issued and outstanding Shares. The Company is relying on the exemptions from the requirement to obtain a formal evaluation and minority shareholder approval in connection with the transaction contained in sections 5.5 (a) and 5.7 (1) (a) of MI 61-101, as neither the fair market value of the securities issued, nor the fair market value of the consideration for the securities issued exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization as calculated in accordance with MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report containing all the disclosure required by MI 61-101 more than 21 days before the expected closing of the transaction as the Company wishes to close the transaction as expeditiously as possible. Technical Content and Qualified Person The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by by Thomas H. Chadwick, BSc., CPG, a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Disclosure Standards for Mineral Projects. About the Neal Project The Project is leased from Daisy Mining and Land LLP. Under the lease agreement, the Company may remove, extract, ship and sell all ores, minerals and material from the property. In exchange, Daisy Mining will receive lease payments equal to $3.00 per ton for all material removed from the property. If the annual lease payment is less than $10,000, Daisy Mining is paid a cash top-up to meet the $10,000 annual payment minimum. Daisy Mining will also receive production payments on any future production in the form of a 3% NSR. The Project is a high-grade gold-dominant vein system with at least five veins known to date. It is located near Boise, Idaho and has excellent access via 20 kilometers of improved gravel and dirt roads from Interstate-84. The Project consists of five private patented mining claims covering approximately 22.4 hectares (55.38 acres) and another seven unpatented lode claims covering about 52.6 hectares (130 acres) located on U.S. Forest Service administered public lands. Gold mineralization at the Neal Project and elsewhere in the Neal Mining District was discovered in 1889 by Arthur Neal. Total reported District lode gold production through 1941 has been estimated at around 30,000 ounces, with most of this production coming from the Neal Project area in the 1889-1915 time frame. The Neal Project area contains three historic underground gold mines: Hidden Treasure, Homestake and Daisy. These mines were eventually connected underground and were at peak production from 1902-1915. Neal was explored in the late 1980's for open pit, heap leach potential with a reverse circulation drilling program consisting of 208 holes totaling 47,000 feet. Modern bulk sampling from an open cut in 2015-2016 produced a stockpile of mineralized material estimated to contain approximately 13,900 tons at 0.132 ounces per ton (4.54 gpt) gold. The qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify this historical estimate as current mineral resources or reserves and the Company is not treating the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. About Galleon Gold Galleon Gold is an exploration and development company focused on advancing the West Cache Gold Project in Timmins, Ontario. The West Cache Gold Project is located 7 km northeast of Pan American Silver's Timmins West Mine and 14 km southwest of Newmont's Hollinger Mine. A 2022 Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for the project demonstrates strong economics. Detail engineering design and baseline studies in support of a permit application for an underground bulk sample are underway. For further information: Galleon Gold R. David Russell Chairman and CEO T. (416) 644-0066 info@galleongold.com www.galleongold.com Investor Relations Harbor Access Graham Farrell T. (416) 842-9003 Graham.Farrell@harbor-access.com Forward-Looking Statements This document contains certain forward-looking statements that reflect the current views and/or expectations of Galleon Gold with respect to its long-term strategy, proposed work, plans and other reports including the PEA for its projects. Forward-looking statements are based on the then-current expectations, beliefs, assumptions, estimates and forecasts about the business and the markets in which Galleon Gold operates. Some of the statements contained herein may be forward-looking statements which involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Without limitation, statements regarding potential mineralization and resources, exploration results, expectations, plans, and objectives of Galleon Gold are forward-looking statements that involve various risks. The following are important factors that could cause Galleon Gold's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements: changes in the world-wide price of mineral commodities, general market conditions, risks inherent in mineral exploration, risks associated with development, construction and mining operations, risks related to infectious diseases, including Covid-19 and the uncertainty of future exploration activities and cash flows, and the uncertainty of access to additional capital. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events may differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Galleon Gold undertakes no obligation to update such forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168026 Company is one of the leaders in the vacation rental platform sector a growing market with a $2 billion TAM Financial profile includes 10x revenue growth since 2021 and current strong profitability Funding aims to accelerate global growth and support organic and inorganic opportunities to expand market share Investment represents the largest capital raise in the vacation rental platform sector to date Hostaway, a leading all-in-one vacation rental software and management system, today announced a $175 million capital raise. The funding represents the largest in the sector to date and was led by PSG, a leading growth equity firm partnering with software and technology-enabled services companies to help accelerate their growth. The company aims to use the proceeds to propel its growth trajectory, expand globally, grow headcount, strengthen customer service, enhance onboarding processes, and pursue both organic and inorganic opportunities to expand market share. Hostaway was founded in 2015 by Marcus Rader, Saber Kordestanchi and Mikko Nurminen to automate and simplify the process of property management, helping property managers scale and grow their businesses. Hostaway has increased its revenues by more than 10 times since 2021 and achieved strong profitability alongside its growth profile. Today, Hostaway customers collectively manage more than 100,000 properties in more than 100 countries. Hostaway has more than 100 partners in its Marketplace, one of the highest numbers in the industry. The company became the first property management and channel management software company to earn the highest partnership designations from the three leading online travel agencies, Airbnb, VRBO and Booking.com, and it also currently has preferred relationships with Google, Expedia, Tripadvisor and Homes Villas by Marriott. As a comprehensive vacation rental software and management system, Hostaway allows property managers to manage all key aspects of their vacation rental business, including: Property Management : Easy-to-use property management software for vacation rentals to manage inquiries, recurring guests, distribution channels, owners and staff in one place. : Easy-to-use property management software for vacation rentals to manage inquiries, recurring guests, distribution channels, owners and staff in one place. Channel Management : Sophisticated two-way API connection to all major online travel agencies, including Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, Expedia, TripAdvisor, Marriott and Google Travel. : Sophisticated two-way API connection to all major online travel agencies, including Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, Expedia, TripAdvisor, Marriott and Google Travel. Automation Tools : Automates every repetitive task with automated messages, reviews, tasks and payments. : Automates every repetitive task with automated messages, reviews, tasks and payments. Analytics Reporting : Customizable reports give property managers valuable insights into their business. : Customizable reports give property managers valuable insights into their business. Communication : All the communication tools a property manager needs, with an industry-leading unified inbox. : All the communication tools a property manager needs, with an industry-leading unified inbox. Marketing: Market properties with easy booking website set up, WordPress plugin, coupon management and website builder tools. The global opportunity in the vacation rental management software market is large and growing with a total addressable market of $2 billion. Domestic leisure and travel categories continue to rebound in Europe and North America, and small property owners are increasingly outsourcing to property managers and digitizing their operations. In addition to its established strength in Europe and North America, Hostaway's customer base is further enhanced by a growing presence in Asia, Middle East, South America and Oceania. "We are thrilled to partner with PSG, as we continue to elevate the vacation rental industry and unlock value for property managers beyond what had been thought possible," said Marcus Rader, CEO and Co-Founder of Hostaway. "We have operated with incredible speed and efficiency, balancing growth with our current strong profitability, and this investment represents a significant milestone in our journey toward global market leadership. We've come a long way, but we are just getting started. The opportunities are endless!" "We are impressed with the quality of the Hostaway team, their vision and execution in building what is, in our view, a highly differentiated category leader with multiple levers of value creation," said Edward Hughes, Managing Director at PSG. "We believe the company has a significant opportunity to lead this industry, as it continues to scale its integrated platform, expand globally and help its customers meet the growing demand in the short-term rental market. We look forward to partnering with Hostaway in this new exciting chapter." Vista Point Advisors, a San Francisco-based boutique investment bank, served as the exclusive financial advisor to Hostaway. About Hostaway Founded in 2015, Hostaway is an all-in-one vacation rental management software solution that partners with property managers in the growth of their business. Hostaway serves professional vacation rental property managers by providing easy-to-use software and serving as a reliable two-way API connection to major online travel agencies. For many years, Hostaway has achieved the highest level of recognition as a partner from the three leading online travel agencies, Airbnb, VRBO and Booking.com, and was the first property management and channel management software to hold this "triple crown" designation. Hostaway has a global footprint with hubs in Finland, Canada, and Spain. Learn more at Hostaway.com. About PSG PSG is a growth equity firm that partners with software and technology-enabled services companies to help them navigate transformational growth, capitalize on strategic opportunities and build strong teams. Having backed more than 120 companies and facilitated over 450 add-on acquisitions, PSG brings extensive investment experience, deep expertise in software and technology, and a firm commitment to collaborating with management teams. Founded in 2014, PSG operates out of offices in Boston, Kansas City, London, Paris, Madrid and Tel Aviv. To learn more about PSG, visit www.psgequity.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005107/en/ Contacts: Hostaway Jessica Gillingham jessica@abodeworldwide.com PSG Jacqueline Schofield JSchofield@prosek.com OTTAWA, ON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Crypto4A Technologies Inc. (Crypto4A), a Canadian company, today announced QxHSM: an industry first fifth-generation Hardware Security Module (HSM) in a revolutionary modular blade form factor that provides operational efficiencies and a lower total cost of ownership. QxHSM provides the quantum-safe cryptographic agility, mobility, and scalability needed to keep up with rapid advances in technology, ensures true ownership of cryptographic material without vendor lock in, and supports flexible cloud-scale deployment architectures while adapting to changing markets, standards, and requirements. "The QxHSM epitomizes our 'agility-by-design' philosophy. We go beyond addressing just cryptographic agility, we are revolutionizing the concept of agility in HSMs and their roles in today's digital landscape. Our ground-breaking form factor enables various deployment models, providing agile system scalability in terms of both time and space," said Bruno Couillard, co-founder, and CEO of Crypto4A. "Thanks to our highly optimized and agile architecture, the QxHSM ensures an up-to-date and timely quantum-safe cryptographic security posture throughout its lifespan. We firmly believe that the QxHSM will forever redefine the HSM space." "Crypto4A, has announced the launch of the QxHSM, an HSM served up in a blade form factor, designed specifically for server infrastructure deployment. Less complex to deploy than PCIe cards, and less costly than fully-fledged network attached appliances, a blade server is both highly modular and easily manageable from an operational perspective," explained Michela Menting, Senior Research Director at ABI Research. "The best technology in the world can only go so far, and risks remaining the prerogative of the few and knowledgeable if there is no significant improvement from an operational perspective. By making the hardware more accessible and usable, manufacturers can open up the technology to a greater addressable market in the same way that the service opportunity does. The HSM market is certainly set for some more transformative changes, and highly competitive innovation, in the years ahead." The QxHSM blade module is a fully featured network-attached HSM in a reduced footprint that can be deployed in a single module desktop enclosure for smaller deployments (such as offline root applications), a three-module 1U blade server enclosure, all the way up to a high-density ten-module 3U blade server enclosure for data center and cloud deployments. Multiple blade modules and enclosures can be combined for clustering on a highly distributed global scale. The QxHSM allows for higher rack density with over 60% space savings compared to traditional network attached HSMs leading to reduced operational costs and optimized use of data centre infrastructure. Availability Crypto4A's QxHSM is available to early access partners today with general availability in Q1 2024. Technical specifications and capabilities are available to early access clients. About Crypto4A Crypto4A Technologies Inc. is a Canadian cybersecurity technology company providing industry leading, fifth-generation quantum-safe crypto-agile Hardware Security Modules (HSM), Hardware Security Platforms (HSP), and PQC Migration Solutions. Its products and solutions provide processing capabilities for classic and quantum-safe cryptography that is built in -not bolted on. Crypto4A enables the cryptographic agility, mobility, and scalability demanded by enterprises and government agencies to secure their digital assets and infrastructure while adapting to changing markets, standards, and requirements. Contact: John O'Connor, Vice President of Product Management, john.oconnor@crypto4a.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088801/Crypto4A_Crypto4A_s_QxHSM__forever_revolutionizes_the_Hardware_S.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088800/Crypto4A_Crypto4A_s_QxHSM__forever_revolutionizes_the_Hardware_S.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/crypto4as-qxhsm-forever-revolutionizes-the-hardware-security-module-301837972.html Spectronaut 18 makes DIA proteomics projects more efficient and scalable than ever for all mass spectrometry instrument types 18 makes DIA proteomics projects more efficient and scalable than ever for all mass spectrometry instrument types Novel research with TrueDiscovery and TrueTarget demonstrates the unique capabilities and utility of mass spectrometry proteomics for biomarker and drug discovery Biognosys' iRT Kit is recommended for real-time system suitability monitoring in combination with the Bruker ProteoScape software, introduced by Bruker at ASMS ZURICH, Switzerland and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., May 31, 2023from June 4 to June 8 in Houston, Texas where the company will launch Spectronaut 18 and present major scientific and technological advances for its proprietary proteomics research software and services. Biognosys' scientific presence includes a breakfast seminar introducing Spectronaut 18, along with three oral presentations and nine posters. In addition, their team of scientific experts will be present at booth #819. "Our continuous commitment to innovation in mass spectrometry-based proteomics is once again emphasized by our significant contribution to the ASMS scientific program," saidLukas Reiter, Ph.D., Chief Technology Officer of Biognosys. "With this major release of Spectronaut 18, soon after the Spectronaut 17 release, we show our eagerness to innovate and our ability to develop at a fast pace to provide users of all instrument types with the best possible performance in DIA proteomics. Our presentations on TrueDiscovery and TrueTarget demonstrate the value of mass spectrometry proteomics for drug discovery and clinical trials." Further, Biognosys will participate in the activities of its strategic partner, Bruker. Lukas Reiter will present on "dia-PASEF empowered discovery proteomics" during their Breakfast Workshop Pharma on Tuesday, June 6, and Biognosys' portfolio of proteomics services, software, and kits will be showcased in Bruker's hospitality suite. A major launch arising from the strategic partnership is the combination of Biognosys' iRT kit together with the Bruker ProteoScape product. Spectronaut 18: DIA data analysis with unprecedented throughput and efficiency Biognosys will launch the latest version of Spectronaut during their Monday, June 5, breakfast seminar "Spectronaut 18: Limitless Throughput. Unparalleled Efficiency." The seminar features presentations from Biognosys' CTO Lukas Reiter, and guest speakers Gregory Potts (AbbVie) and Aline Martins (Scripps Research Institute). In addition, Biognosys will present "A Systematic Characterization of LC-MS Features Sheds Light on the Full Potential of DIA Identification" during the oral sessions on Tuesday, June 6. Furthermore, the company will present four posters highlighting recent improvements in Spectronaut, including the application of cutting-edge neural networks to improve protein identification and the use of Biognosys' library-free directDIA+ workflow for comprehensive quantification across the proteome. TrueDiscovery: Accelerating biomarker discovery in oncology and neuroscience TrueDiscovery is Biognosys' proprietary mass spectrometry platform for large-scale proteomics, providing unrivaled depth and sensitivity across the entire proteome. In the oral sessions on Wednesday, June 7, Biognosys will be showing how TrueDiscovery has been used to characterize more than 15,000 proteins across 22 samples in a single shot in their presentation "Deepest Profiling of Human Tissues to Date Sheds Light on Expressed Proteins" and demonstrating how automation can cut hands-on experimental time by up to 90% in the talk "A Universal Workflow for Automated Sample Preparation in Large-Scale Proteomics." Biognosys will also be presenting two posters demonstrating the depth and sensitivity of TrueDiscovery for a range of applications, including identifying proteomic signatures in urine and comparing plasma and cerebrospinal fluid biomarker profiles in Alzheimer's disease. A further poster reveals the results of a head-to-head comparison between TrueDiscovery and the Olink Explore affinity-based platform. TrueTarget: High-resolution drug target identification and deconvolution TrueTarget is Biognosys' unique platform for exploring drug-target interactions, underpinned by limited proteolysis mass spectrometry (LiP-MS). One of Biognosys' posters will showcase a detailed proteome-wide mapping of the binding sites of two CDK inhibitors. iRT Kit: Now recommended in combination with Bruker ProteoScape For real-time system suitability monitoring, Bruker now supports and recommends using the Biognosys iRT kit. The Bruker ProteoScape software is introduced by Bruker at ASMS as a real-time software suite for computational 4D-Proteomics including monitoring and optimization of system performance for the timsTOF platform. The software's real-time system quality control (QC) workflow is based on the widely used Biognosys iRT kit. The kit contains eleven non-naturally occurring synthetic peptides in a pooled mix. Peptides have been carefully optimized for stability, sensitivity and even spacing in retention time over the gradient and in the peptide CCS dimension. Visit biognosys.com/asms2023for a complete overview of Biognosys' presence at ASMS. Posters will be available for download by Friday, June 9. About Biognosys At Biognosys, we believe that deep proteome insights hold the key to breakthrough discoveries that transform science for better lives. With our versatile portfolio of next-generation proteomics solutions, including the TrueDiscovery, TrueTarget, and TrueSignature research service platforms, our flagship software Spectronaut, and the PQ500 kit, we make the proteome actionable to empower research, drug development, and clinical decision-making. Our solutions provide a multi-dimensional view of protein expression, function, and structure in all biological species and sample types. Our unique, patented technologies utilize high-resolution mass spectrometry to quantify thousands of proteins with industry-leading precision, depth, and throughput. Through our strategic partnership with Bruker. About Spectronaut Spectronaut is Biognosys' flagship data analysis software for data-independent acquisition (DIA) mass spectrometry (MS) based proteomics. The software employs advanced Search and Artificial Intelligence. About TrueDiscovery The Biognosys TrueDiscovery platform offers integrated proteomics solutions across the entire drug development pipeline. TrueDiscovery is powered by Hyper Reaction Monitoring (HRM) mass spectrometry, an advanced patented Data Independent Acquisition (DIA)-based protein quantification technology co-invented by tech pioneers at Biognosys. TrueDiscovery is the only platform that searches the complete proteome to quantify thousands of the most relevant proteins, including an unlimited number of proteoforms. The platform enables the deepest unbiased profiling of tissue and biofluids proteomes with unbeatable specificity on a large scale. The generated data are highly reproducible and easily transferrable to clinical assays. Studies can be performed in a GLP certified and GCP compliant environment. For more information, visit truediscovery.bio . About TrueTarget The Biognosys TrueTarget proteomics platform uniquely addresses the most pressing challenges in early drug discovery by identifying on- and off-targets to accelerate and de-risk drug development throughout the pipeline. TrueTarget is powered by Limited Proteolysis Mass Spectrometry (LiP-MS), a proprietary, patented chemoproteomics technology co-developed by Biognosys. TrueTarget is the only tool to probe structural changes across the complete proteome with peptide-level resolution, providing unique insights into compound binding and target identification. The platform enables elucidating mechanisms of action and revealing unanticipated toxicities. For more information, visit truetarget.bio. Registration of Nature-Cide Across the Caribbean Enhances Global Presence while Enabling Caribbean Sustainability Goals LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Med-X, Inc., a leading innovator of all-natural green scene solutions addressing the pest control, health and wellness markets, today announced that it has filed to register its flagship Nature-Cide pest control product line in several Caribbean islands, addressing an unaddressed adjacent market with heavy pest pressures and a strong commitment to sustainability. Med-X, through its multiple distribution partners, has proceeded to register its primary Nature-Cide products across Barbados, Guyana, St. Lucia and Trinidad, with an approval and shipments already moving into Guyana. Registration is a mandatory process for pest control products in many international jurisdictions, allowing Med-X to gain government approval to use its products in local markets. This strategic decision reflects the growing demand for effective pest management solutions in jurisdictions with heavy pest pressures that prioritize environmental sustainability and the well-being of communities. Med-X began testing and introducing Nature-Cide into various regions world-wide over the last couple of years, which has now garnered great interest and demand to contribute to the reduction of chemical-based pest control methods with effective all-natural solutions, protecting both people and the environment. Matthew Mills, Chief Executive Officer of Med-X, said: "We are thrilled to announce the beginning of our world-wide expansion with a first step into the Caribbean islands, to supply our flagship Nature-Cide solutions to a largely untapped, niche market with significant white space for adoption across the region. We look forward to registering and launching our portfolio of Nature-Cide products across a variety or regions that are demanding solutions that are environmentally friendly as we strive to create value for our shareholders over the long-term. "Our mission has always been to provide effective pest control solutions that are safe, environmentally friendly, and sustainable. By partnering with local community leaders and their regulatory authorities, we are taking a step forward in achieving our goal of reducing reliance on harmful chemicals in pest management while providing necessary relief from heavy pest pressures across the Caribbean and beyond," concluded Mills. About Med-X, Inc. Med-X, Inc. is a leading innovator of biological pest control solutions addressing both consumer and professional markets globally. Nature-Cide - the Company's flagship product line - is a safer, all-natural alternative to conventional chemical products, formulated to kill or repel a wide variety of pests. Med-X's comprehensive go-to-market strategy includes leveraging strategic partnerships alongside an integrated e-commerce, brick and mortar and on-site services presence in key markets. For more information, please visit our website at www.medx-rx.com . Disclaimer and Forward-Looking Statements This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. Any offers, solicitations or offers to buy, or any sale of securities will be made in accordance with the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). This announcement is being issued in accordance with Rule 135 of the Securities Act. This press release may contain forward-looking statements regarding projected business performance, operating results, financial condition, and other aspects of the company, expressed by such language as "expected," "anticipated," "projected" and "forecasted." Please be advised that such statements are estimates only and there is no assurance that the results stated or implied by forward-looking statements will actually be realized by the company. Forward-looking statements may be based on management assumptions that prove to be wrong. The Company and its business are subject to substantial risks and potential events beyond its control that would cause material differences between predicted results and actual results, including the Company incurring operating losses and experiencing unexpected material adverse events. Investor Relations Contact Lucas Zimmerman Director MZ Group - MZ North America 262-357-2918 MXRX@mzgroup.us www.mzgroup.us SOURCE: Med-X, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/756849/Med-X-Announces-New-Registrations-of-Flagship-Nature-Cide-Product-Line-in-Caribbean-Islands A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Tower Resources Ltd. (TSXV: TWR) ("Tower" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the commencement of a focused ground magnetic survey on the Company's Rabbit North property near Kamloops, British Columbia, between New Gold's New Afton underground Cu-Au mine and Teck's Highland Valley open pit Cu-Mo mine (see Fig. 1). Purpose of the Ground Magnetic Survey The three significant discoveries - Rainbow (porphyry Cu-Au-Mo), Lightning and Thunder (orogenic Au) -that Tower made in rapid succession within 15 months beneath glacial till and/or basalt cover on the Rabbit North property are all on the southern edge of the only existing ground magnetic survey, making this old survey of little value to the Company's current exploration planning. In addition, the old north-south survey lines are not oriented squarely to the main south-southeast structural trend. Area Covered by the Survey The new survey, totaling ~112 line-km, will comprise 32 east-northeast trending lines 100 m apart and ~3.5 km long, extending from the volcaniclastic terrain west of Durand Creek to the mid-point of the Durand Stock east of the creek (see Fig.2). Having good magnetic coverage in the area of the new Rainbow and Thunder Zones has become essential due to their side-by-side positions and complex magnetic interplay resulting from (a) the primary (pre-mineralization) magnetite content of the volcaniclastic host rocks being variable (absent to significant); (b) the subsequent addition to the Rainbow Zone of significant hydrothermal magnetite; (c) the opposite, magnetite destructive hydrothermal alteration of the Thunder Zone; and (d) the basalt that covers the Rainbow Zone and part of the Thunder Zone producing an overriding magnetic low despite being strongly magnetic because a magnetic pole reversal occurred during its eruption. Knowing the above magnetic influences in advance of the magnetic survey should result in a much more informed interpretation of the magnetic data - one that should help in positioning and aiming the next round of drill holes more effectively to intersect and expand the Rainbow and Thunder Zones. The magnetic survey will also cover the head of the presently untested Durand Creek gold grain dispersal train 1 km to the north on the west side of the Creek. The overall distribution of the gold grains within this train suggests another Rainbow-type porphyry source rather than a Thunder or Lightning-type orogenic Au source. Methods and Qualified Person The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Stuart Averill, P.Geo., a director of the Company, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. About Tower Resources Tower is a Canadian based mineral exploration company focused on the discovery and advancement of economic mineral projects in the Americas. The Company's key exploration assets, both in B.C., are the Rabbit North copper-gold porphyry project located between the New Afton copper-gold and Highland Valley copper mines in the Kamloops mining district and the Nechako gold-silver project near Artemis' Blackwater project. On behalf of the Board of Directors Tower Resources Ltd. Joe Dhami, President and CEO (778) 996-4730 www.towerresources.ca Reader Advisory This news release may contain statements which constitute "forward-looking information", including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company, its directors, or its officers with respect to the future business activities of the Company. The words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future business activities and involve risks and uncertainties, and that the Company's future business activities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, fluctuations in market prices, successes of the operations of the Company, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such information will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. The Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking information except as required under the applicable securities laws. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Figure 1 - Location of Tower's Rabbit North property relative to the active mines of the Kamloops district. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5023/168099_986267a7b4adc990_002full.jpg Figure 2 - Area being covered by the ground magnetic survey. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5023/168099_986267a7b4adc990_003full.jpg To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168099 Drilling Will Focus on Shallow High-Priority Basement-Hosted Uranium Targets, Program Will Be Fully Funded by Basin Energy Ltd; Operated by CanAlaska Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7N) ("CanAlaska or the "Company") is pleased to announce ongoing preparation for a drill program on it's 60%-owned Geikie project in the Athabasca Basin (Figure 1). The drill program will be focused on testing shallow, high-priority targets that have been compiled from recent high-resolution airborne radiometric, magnetic, and electromagnetic surveys in combination with prospecting, structural mapping, and historical data review. The Company has secured contractors with mobilization to the project area, planned for the second week of June. This initial 2,000 metre program is planned to consist of 8 drill holes. Figure 1 - Geikie Project Location To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2864/168111_06195952a4a6d995_002full.jpg 2023 Geikie Summer Drill Program The drill program will be focused on testing a northeast trending conductor system, striking through the southern half of the property, that was identified during the recently completed VTEM Plus survey (Figure 2). A series of splays and offsets along this conductor are visible, often in correlation with intersections of regionally significant deep-seated, north-south trending faults, interpreted to be part of the Tabbernor Fault System. In addition, historical drillholes completed on this conductor trend identified stratigraphically-controlled and structurally-enhanced graphite proximal to the main conductor target. Structurally reactivated graphite-rich metasedimentary rocks are important hosts for basement-hosted uranium targets. Figure 2 - Geikie Project Priority Drill Target Locations To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2864/168111_06195952a4a6d995_003full.jpg Drilling services for the Geikie project have been contracted to Athabasca Catering Limited Partnership, a 100% First Nations-owned company, who are partnered with ITL Diamond Drilling Ltd. Helicopter services for the project are being provided by Helicopter Transport Services. CanAlaska will be the operator for this program. CanAlaska CEO, Cory Belyk, comments, "Initiation of this first drilling program on the Geikie project is a tremendous milestone for CanAlaska and its shareholders. Project generation and property deals are a vital part of our hybrid business model which drives opportunity for deposit discovery through our depth of technical expertise, our ability to acquire land in a very competitive market, and our desire to find the right partnerships to move these projects toward a discovery. We look forward to working with Basin Energy on this exciting new project in the world's best uranium district, the Saudi Arabia of Uranium." Geikie Project Overview The Geikie Project is located just outside the eastern margin of the Athabasca Basin within the Wollaston Domain. The Project area has been subject to minimal exploration for uranium, with most significant work targeting base metals between 1967 and 1980. During this regional work, a series of mineralized showings were discovered in the Mud Lake and Marina areas. The Mud Lake uranium-molybdenum showing recorded a series of anomalous rock chips with grades of up to 0.225% U, 5.2% Mo, and 1.4% Cu. The Marina lead-zinc prospect recorded anomalous mineralization in outcrop of up to 2.03% Pb, 7.2% Zn and 0.93 oz/t Ag. Recent ground prospecting on the project has since confirmed the Mud Lake uranium-molybdenum, showing results with up to 3,250 ppm molybdenum total and 0.21% uranium total in grab samples. The primary target on the Geikie project is basement-hosted uranium mineralization where uranium bearing structures intersect favourable metasedimentary host rocks. The Geikie project is located within 10 km of recent discoveries of basement-hosted uranium mineralization at the nearby Gemini Mineralized Zone and ACKIO. These discoveries along with known mineralization at the Agip-S and West Way prospects, all underscore the prospectivity of this portion of the Wollaston Belt. The Geikie project is currently being sole-funded by Basin Energy Limited (ASX: BSN) under an option earn-in agreement with the Company. Other News The Company will be attending the 121 Mining Investment conference June 5 -6 at the etc. venues 360 Madison event centre, New York, USA. About CanAlaska Uranium CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7N) holds interests in approximately 350,000 hectares (865,000 acres), in Canada's Athabasca Basin - the "Saudi Arabia of Uranium." CanAlaska's strategic holdings have attracted major international mining companies. CanAlaska is currently working with Cameco and Denison at two of the Company's properties in the Eastern Athabasca Basin. CanAlaska is a project generator positioned for discovery success in the world's richest uranium district. The Company also holds properties prospective for nickel, copper, gold and diamonds. For further information visit www.canalaska.com. The qualified technical person for this news release is Nathan Bridge, MSc., P.Geo., CanAlaska's Vice President, Exploration. On behalf of the Board of Directors "Cory Belyk" Cory Belyk, P.Geo., FGC CEO, Executive Vice-President and Director CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. Contacts: Cory Belyk, CEO and Executive VP Tel: +1.604.688.3211 x 138 Email: cbelyk@canalaska.com General Enquiry Tel: +1.604.688.3211 Email: info@canalaska.com Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking information All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Company's control. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date hereof or revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168111 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Playgon Games Inc. (TSXV: DEAL) (OTCQB: PLGNF) (FSE: 7CR) ("Playgon" or the "Company"), a propriety SaaS technology company delivering mobile first live dealer technology to online gaming operators globally, announces its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023. For complete details please refer to the Financial Statements and associated Management's Discussion and Analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2023, available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) or the Company's website (www.Playgon.com). All amounts are in Canadian Dollars unless otherwise indicated. Q1 2023 Financial Highlights: During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company saw increased growth in player activity due to new onboards and organic growth within its existing core customer base which is viewed as a strong indicator for future revenue growth. The Company generated revenues of $288,009 for the three months ended March 31, 2023 (March 31, 2022 - $140,877) from it's Live Dealer platform, representing a 104% increase year over year. The net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was $3,994,181 (March 31, 2022 - $3,899,555), which represented a 2% increase year over year. The Company continues its investment in the Live Dealer platform with increasing cost on its development team and Las Vegas studio casino staff costs to $2,035,380 (March 31, 2022 - $1,699,881). Q1 2023 Operational Highlights The revenue growth was supported by strong results among several key performance indicators ("KPI"). These KPI's include: Wagering turnover for the three months ended March 31, 2023 was $336 million compared to $275.6 million the previous quarter, representing an increase of 22% quarter over quarter. Average daily wagering turnover for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was $3.71 million compared to the previous quarter of $2.99 million representing an increase of 24% quarter over quarter. "We kicked off our year with positive momentum in several KPI's we track, and this is continuing into our second quarter, commented Darcy Krogh CEO of Playgon Games Inc. "The continued and accelerating growth in top line revenue adds to our confidence that our growth strategy is working and gaining meaningful traction in 2023." About Playgon Games Inc. Playgon is a SaaS technology company focused on developing and licensing digital content for the growing iGaming market. The Company provides a multi-tenant gateway that allows online operators the ability to offer their customers innovative iGaming software solutions. Its current software platform includes Live Dealer Casino, E-Table games and Daily Fantasy Sports, which, through a seamless integration at the operator level, allows customer access without having to share or compromise any sensitive customer data. As a true business-to-business digital content provider, the Company's products are ideal turn-key solutions for online casinos, sportsbook operators, land-based operators, media groups, and big database companies. For further information, please visit the Company's website at www.playgon.com. For further information, contact: Mike Marrandino, Director Tel: (604) 722-5225 Email: mikem@playgon.com Forward-Looking Statements This release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, without limitation, may contain the words believes, expects, anticipates, estimates, intends, plans, or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not guaranteeing of future performance. They involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated. Forward looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Except for historical facts, the statements in this news release, as well as oral statements or other written statements made or to be made by Playgon, are forward-looking and involve risks and uncertainties. In the context of any forward-looking information please refer to risk factors detailed in, as well as other information contained in the Company's audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2022 and Management Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2022 and other filings with Canadian securities regulators ( www.sedar.com ). Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release represents Playgon's current expectations. Playgon disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, except if required by applicable securities laws. 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. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168146 Halifax, Nova Scotia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Antler Gold Inc. (TSXV: ANTL) ("Antler" or "Company") is pleased to announce that it has been granted three new gold exploration licenses targeting the extension of the highly-fertile Ubendian belt into north-east Zambia. The Eastern Ubendian Corridor is well established as a producing gold terrane which includes 4 significant gold fields (Lupa, Mpanda, Amani and Niassa), with the Lupa Goldfields hosting the >1MOz New Luika Gold Mine ("NLGM")1. The combined licenses, named the Ufipa Gold Project, cover an extensive 473,627 ha offering a district scale opportunity for establishing a new gold field in the unexplored western extension of the Ubendian Belt. The project forms part of Antlers 87.5% held subsidiary, Antler PG (see news release dated March 24, 2022). "We are pleased to have been granted these new exploration licenses in Zambia, particularly in an area that is increasingly gaining recognition for hosting large, economically viable gold deposits. This is a highly prospective region for gold exploration, and we are eager to begin our work there," said Christopher Drysdale, CEO of Antler Gold. "Antler Gold continues to focus on securing technically sound projects, attracting reputable and well-funded industry players, and reinforcing our status as a trusted project generator. The Ufipa Gold Project is a commanding land position in this highly prospective region, which adds to our growing portfolio of projects across southern Africa, and we look forward to unlocking the value of this for the benefit of our shareholders." Figure 1: Location of Ufipa Gold Project To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5124/168172_7bf7629f44b1aae1_001full.jpg Location and Geology of the Ufipa Gold Project The 4,736 km 2 Ufipa Gold Project is made up of 3 large exploration licenses which are located in the Northern and Eastern provinces of Zambia, approximately 800 km northeast of the Zambian capital of Luska. The Ubendian Belt is a highly fertile gold region that contains orogenic gold deposits which are related to the reworking of Archean crust during younger orogenic events (2). The Eastern Ubendian Corridor ("EUC", Figure 2) is proven to be fertile with 4 known gold fields (Mpanda, Lupa, Amani and Niassa, Figure 2). Of these gold fields, the Lupa Goldfields hosts the NLGM, which produced approximately 648KOz Au between 2013 and 2020 (3), and resources of 1.03 MOz Au (1). In the known gold fields of the EUC, Au mineralization occurred over a period of >1Ga, with potential for orogenic Au mineralization in the Ufipa Gold Project of the WUC during 3 orogenies (Ubendian; Iridiumide/Kibaran; Pan-African). This extension of the WUC into Zambia has not been previously recognized and has the potential to emerge as a new gold district. The Ufipa Gold Project (Figure 2) hosts a variety of potential favorable host rock and structures considered to be favorable targets to explore for potentially economic orogenic Au deposits. The area is historically underexplored with regards to orogenic Au and modern low level analytical detection limits. Exploration Program planned for 2023 Antler is planning to initiate exploration activities at the Ufipa Gold Project soon, with a particular emphasis on assessing the potential for orogenic gold deposits. The Company is currently working on obtaining an Environmental Project Brief from the Zambian Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA), and once secured, field activities will promptly begin. Antler is committed to keeping all stakeholders informed and will provide regular updates on the progress of the exploration program. Figure 2: Regional geological map showing the Precambrian regional context of the Ubendian Belt between the Tanzania Craton and the Bangweulu Block (Map modified from Ganbat et al 2021). To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5124/168172_7bf7629f44b1aae1_002full.jpg About Antler Gold Inc. Antler Gold Inc. (TSXV: ANTL) is a Canadian listed mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition and exploration of mineral projects in Africa's Top-Ranked Jurisdictions, with exposure to both Gold and REE. Antler's total license position now comprises 6 projects for a total landholding of approximately 584,347 Ha. The Company continues to assess new regional opportunities with the aim of building a risk diversified business model, that allows the Company to generate short and long-term income whilst providing stakeholders with exposure to potential multiple returns that are generated from the discovery process. Qualified Person The technical and scientific information in this presentation has been reviewed and approved by Oliver Tors, B.Sc. (Hons)., Exploration Manager of the Company, who is registered Professional Natural Scientist (Pr. Sci. Nat. No. 120660) with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) who is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. Mr. Tors is an employee of Antler Gold Inc. and is not independent of the Company under NI 43-101. Cautionary Statements This press release may contain forward-looking information, such as statements regarding the appointment of directors and consultants. This information is based on current expectations and assumptions (including assumptions relating to general economic and market conditions) that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Actual results may differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking information. Antler Gold does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking information in this release, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking information unless and until required by securities laws applicable to Antler Gold. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in the filings made by Antler Gold with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For further information, please contact Christopher Drysdale, CEO of Antler Gold Inc., at +264 81 220 2439 1 Shanta Gold Limited, 2023 2Dunn and von der Heyden 2022 3 Shanta Gold Ltd, 2020, 2021a, 2021b. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168172 All-in-one tax solution now streamlines Pillar Two reporting and compliance to enhance overall financial planning Standalone option available for companies seeking Pillar Two support within their existing tax solution insightsoftware, a global provider of reporting, analytics, and performance management solutions, today announced the evolution of Longview Tax with capabilities for BEPS 2.0 Pillar Two. Organizations can implement the comprehensive solution for all tax reporting challenges, or opt for a new standalone offering for BEPS 2.0 Pillar Two with the ability to add functionality as needed. The all-in-one tax solution enables organizations to confidently meet BEPS 2.0 Pillar Two requirements, improving financial planning with consistent, correct tax payments and reliable tax forecasting. Managers of tax, finance, and auditing can now align provisioning, projecting, country-by-country reporting, operational transfer pricing, and Pillar Two compliance in a single solution. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005023/en/ "Inconsistent data integrity leads to errors in tax reporting and forecasting, which can result in enormous financial and legal costs for organizations. These challenges around consolidating, cleansing, and analyzing tax data from across the organization will be magnified once BEPS 2.0 Pillar Two is made official in 2024," said Josh Schauer, VP of Finance at insightsoftware. "For organizations with existing tax systems and processes that aren't able to execute a full move to a new tax solution, the standalone BEPS 2.0 Pillar Two offering can help immediately." Nearly 60% of organizations with more than 1000 employees are still using spreadsheets across teams, resulting in siloed, error-prone data. This forces organizations to spend more time cleansing and manually rekeying data before it is integrated with finance systems. Manual processes slow time-to-insight and prevent organizations from realizing the full impact of their financial data. BEPS 2.0 Pillar Two takes effect in early 2024, imposing new data reporting requirements and additional global tax compliance challenges for every multinational business with turnover greater than 750M EUR. This legislation increases the pressure surrounding already over-stretched tax teams that will now have to collect more data from multiple sources and across departments. Based on input and collaboration from multinational and Fortune 500 brands, Longview Tax has evolved into a flexible, cloud-based corporate software that improves tax function across the enterprise, including meeting the complex data requirements surrounding Pillar Two. Notably, IHG Hotels Resorts was among this group of customers and recently won Best In-House tax team at the Tolley's Taxation Awards 2023, the UK tax industry's annual award ceremony. "We have been using Longview Tax for our tax close process for over 10 years, taking advantage of the in-built logic and control that it offers. We added the Tax Transparency capabilities to our solution a few years ago in order to automate much of our Country-by-Country reporting requirements and we are looking forward to implementing and utilising the Pillar 2 functionality in the near future", said Tim Poole, Director, Global Tax Reporting and Regulation at IHG Hotels Resorts. "We see there to be a large benefit of using a single set of data within a single system for all of these different reporting requirements, reducing the need for manual reconciliations and the risk of error." Learn more about Longview Tax and its capabilities and further understand the importance of a global tax management platform. Whitepaper from insightsoftware and Ventana Research: Preparing for Pillar Two? Global Tax Management is Critical. Longview Tax Demo: showcases how enterprises can achieve fast, accurate, centralized, and comprehensive Pillar Two management with a single, integrated, best-in-class solution. Webinar with insightsoftware and KPMG highlights the business case for transforming tax processes and systems to deliver what is required for Pillar Two. About insightsoftware insightsoftware is a leading provider of reporting, analytics, and performance management solutions. Over 32,000 organizations worldwide rely on us to support business needs in the areas of accounting, finance, operations, supply chain, tax, budgeting, planning, HR, and disclosure management. We enable the Office of the CFO to connect to and make sense of their data in real time so they can proactively drive greater financial intelligence across their organization. Our best-in-class solutions provide customers with increased productivity, visibility, accuracy, and compliance. Learn more at insightsoftware.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005023/en/ Contacts: Inkhouse for insightsoftware insightsoftware@inkhouse.com At the 2023 ASCO Annual Meeting, Agendia will present data that demonstrates women within MammaPrint's highest risk category have the strongest sensitivity to chemotherapy and more aggressive tumor types, guiding escalated care plans for improved outcomes MammaPrint is the only gene expression profiling test with refined subcategories for risk of distant metastasis to inform more personalized treatment At the 2023 ASCO Annual Meeting,Agendia, Inc., a gene expression profiling company advancing personalized early-stage breast cancer care, will present data that proves MammaPrint can predict chemotherapy sensitivity in women with early-stage, HR+HER- breast cancer. The research examined the clinical utility of MammaPrint's two High Risk subcategories, High 1 (H1) and High 2 (H2), as an indicator of a woman's predicted response to chemotherapy and five-year outcomes, in combination with BluePrint's molecular subtyping, to guide treatment decisions. The study found that women with H2 risk tumors are more likely to respond to chemotherapy and have aggressive, Basal-type tumors compared to women with H1 risk tumors. This data highlights the critical role MammaPrint and BluePrint play in identifying women with the highest risk tumors as early as possible to optimize and personalize treatment planning and improve their chance of survival. While other gene expression profiling tests may lump women into broad-strokes risk groupings, MammaPrint is the only test that further subcategorizes both low risk (Low and Ultra Low), and high risk (H1 and H2) [1,2]. Tumors in each subcategory vary in their response to chemotherapy and deserve of a distinct treatment regimen [3,4,5]. These distinguished risk groups empower clinicians to further refine their treatment recommendations and confidently de-escalate or escalate therapy. "Hearing that you have a high-risk tumor is scary news for any woman with early-stage breast cancer. Our ability to inform treatment decisions for high-risk tumors means we can avoid under or overtreating patients, and instead put them on the right path toward recovery at the right time," said William Audeh, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Agendia. "There's a sense of empowerment that comes with this additional insight and through our tests, patients and their care teams get the most refined, personalized answers to the multitude of questions surrounding an early-stage breast cancer diagnosis." Agendia's poster presentation, "MammaPrint Index as a predictive biomarker for neoadjuvant chemotherapy response and outcomes in patients with HR+HER2- breast cancer in NBRST" will highlight the following results: H2 is a distinct, higher-risk category than H1, with a significantly higher percentage of ER+Basal subtype tumors. Of 327 women with MammaPrint High Risk tumors, 61% had H1 tumors, and 39% had H2 tumors. Within H2 tumors, 63% were Basal-type, compared to only 2% of H1 tumors. Of 327 women with MammaPrint High Risk tumors, 61% had H1 tumors, and 39% had H2 tumors. Within H2 tumors, 63% were Basal-type, compared to only 2% of H1 tumors. H2 tumors are almost four times more sensitive to chemotherapy than H1 tumors. 23% of H2 tumors responded to chemotherapy, compared to only 6% of H1 tumors. 23% of H2 tumors responded to chemotherapy, compared to only 6% of H1 tumors. A woman's menopausal status did not impact her response to chemotherapy. Despite what other studies have suggested, there was no significant difference in chemotherapy sensitivity among premenopausal and postmenopausal women across both high-risk groups. Despite what other studies have suggested, there was no significant difference in chemotherapy sensitivity among premenopausal and postmenopausal women across both high-risk groups. Women with H1 or H2 tumors who achieved a complete response to chemotherapy had similar outcomes. H2 tumors with residual cancer had the worst five-year outcomes. Women with H1 and H2 tumors who responded to chemotherapy both had a 5-year distant metastasis free survival (DMFS) of around 81%. For those with residual disease, H1 tumors had a 5-year DMFS of 77%, and H2 tumors had a 5-year DMFS of 65%. "Refining prognosis and prediction of response to chemotherapy will help push more patients toward appropriate treatment. In light of the high proportion of H2 cancers being Basal subtype and carrying a worse prognosis if they do not get a complete response, it is not hard to envision that perhaps all H2 cancers should be treated more aggressively with the addition of immunotherapy to their chemotherapy," said Peter Beitsch, MD, Surgical Oncologist, Dallas Surgical Group. Agendia's comprehensive gene expression profiling platform is the only one that can inform a woman's full treatment regimen. Beyond determining her predicted response to chemotherapy, Agendia's MammaPrint and BluePrint deliver consistent insights into the optimal timing and duration of a variety of therapies, so providers, together with their patients, can confidently map out a personalized treatment plan that maximizes their survival rate while minimizing damage to their quality of life. Agendia will also present two additional posters that demonstrate its commitment to advancing research in underserved populations, and an oral presentation on the ability of genomic biomarkers to predict a woman's response to immunotherapy. Agendia will be sharing updates throughout the conference on its Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn pages. About Agendia Agendia is a mission-driven, commercial stage company focused on enabling optimized decision-making by providing physicians with next-generation diagnostic and information solutions that can be used to help improve outcomes for breast cancer patients worldwide. The company currently offers two commercially-available genomic profiling tests that help surgeons, oncologists and pathologists to personalize treatment for women at critical intervention points throughout their patient journey. MammaPrintis a 70-gene prognostic test that, along with other clinicopathologic factors, determines a specific patient's breast cancer recurrence risk. BluePrintis an 80-gene molecular subtyping test that identifies the underlying biology of an individual breast cancer to provide information about its behavior. Together, MammaPrint and BluePrint provide a holistic view of the biology underlying an individual patient's breast cancer, enabling physicians to objectively select the best treatment plan. For more information on Agendia's assays and ongoing trials, please visit www.agendia.com. [1] Cardoso, F., et al. (2016). 70-gene signatures as an aid to treatment decisions in early-stage breast cancer. NEJM, 375, 717-729. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa1602253 [2] Piccart, M., et al. (2021). 70-gene signature as an aid for treatment decisions in early breast cancer: updated results of the phase 3 randomised MINDACT trial with an exploratory analysis by age. Lancet Oncology, 22(4), 476-488. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(21)00007-3/fulltext [3] Van't Veer, L., et al. (2018). MammaPrint High1/High2 risk class as a pre-specified biomarker of response to nine different targeted agents plus standard neoadjuvant therapy for 1000 breast cancer patients in the I-SPY 2 TRIAL. Presented at 2018 EORTC-NCI-AACR Symposium on Molecular Targets and cancer Therapeutics. [4] Huppert, L., et al. (2022). Pathologic complete response (pCR) rates for HR+/HER2- breast cancer by molecular subtype in the I-SPY2 trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 40 (16, Suppl.), 504. https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/JCO.2022.40.16_suppl.504 [5] Pusztai, L., et al. (2021). Durvalumab with olaparib and paclitaxel for high-risk HER2-negative stage II/III breast cancer: Results from the adaptively randomized I-SPY2 trial. Cancer Cell, 39(7), 989-998. https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108(21)00275-0 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005234/en/ Contacts: Kerry Harrington FleishmanHillard for Agendia Kerry.harrington@fleishman.com Enabling commercial-ready software for application processors using RISC-V architecture for segments including mobile, consumer electronics, datacenter, and automotive BRUSSELS, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The RISC-V Software Ecosystem ( RISE ) Project is a new collaborative effort that brings together global industry leaders committed to accelerating the availability of software for high-performance and power-efficient RISC-V cores running high level operating systems for a variety of market segments. The RISE Governing Board includes Andes, Google, Intel, Imagination Technologies, MediaTek, Nvidia, Qualcomm Technologies, Red Hat, Rivos, Samsung, SiFive, T-Head, and Ventana. RISE is hosted by Linux Foundation Europe and the effort supports the global open standard activities and achievements of RISC-V International. "It's an exciting time to be part of the RISC-V community, with continued popularity of the platform as well as strong progress across a variety of new use cases. However, this momentum must be supported by performant, secure, reliable and commercial-ready software," said Amber Huffman, Chair of the RISE Project. "The RISE Project brings together leaders with a shared sense of urgency to accelerate the RISC-V software ecosystem readiness in collaboration with RISC-V International." "As a global community, we have made tremendous progress in RISC-V adoption. We are grateful to the thousands of engineers making upstream contributions and to the organizations coming together now to invest in tools and libraries in support of the RISC-V software ecosystem," said RISC-V International CEO Calista Redmond. "Accelerating adoption is our shared mission. The collective investment of our community and in the RISE Project will build on that momentum." RISE Project members will contribute financially and provide engineering talent to address specific software deliverables prioritized by the RISE Technical Steering Committee (TSC). RISE is dedicated to enabling a robust software ecosystem specifically for application processors that includes software development tools, virtualization support, language runtimes, Linux distribution integration, and system firmware, working upstream first with existing open source communities in accordance with open source best practices. "The RISE Project is dedicated to enabling RISC-V in open source tools and libraries (e.g., LLVM, GCC, etc) to speed implementation and time-to-market," said Gabriele Columbro, General Manager of Linux Foundation Europe. "RISC-V is a cornerstone of the European technology and industrial landscape so we're honored to provide a neutral, trusted home for the RISE Project under Linux Foundation Europe." RISE is a global collaborative effort and welcomes new General Members. Please visit www.riseproject.dev for information on how to join. View Quotes from the Governing Board Media Contact Noah Lehman The Linux foundation nlehman@linuxfoundation.org Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088688/Linux_Foundation_RISE_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/industry-leaders-launch-rise-to-accelerate-the-development-of-open-source-software-for-risc-v-301838005.html Atly combines the power of social media-like knowledge sharing with mapping and location discovery tools to fuel a seamless, high-fidelity search experience TEL AVIV, Israel, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Atly , the user-generated social mapping platform purpose-built for discovering places to go and things to do, today announced its official launch with $18 million in funding from Target Global , Tal Ventures , and FKA Brands to offer users seamless, effective, and trustworthy location-based content. In its open beta to date, Atly witnessed thousands of user-created community-based maps, with hundreds of new maps generated organically each month across verticals like food and restaurants, travel, nature and the outdoors, parenting, and more. Digital search is currently undergoing a massive transformation as people turn to an ever-growing list of resources beyond traditional search engines to decide their next moves. Often, they rely on social media over Google Search and Google Maps for destination, activity, and purchase recommendations that feel authentic, up-to-date, and personally curated for them. But platforms like TikTok and Facebook weren't purpose-built for location-based discovery. Social media users are forced to dig through never-ending streams of stories and posts, whose usefulness counterintuitively dissipates the more information is shared, and are faced with limited location-based search, filtering, and bookmarking capabilities. Meanwhile, creators and businesses suffer limited monetization among an audience not necessarily intent on immediately visiting the places they discover while scrolling aimlessly. As a result, people pay the price of wasted time and effort as well as inferior real-life experiences, and creators and businesses suffer lower ROI. Atly leverages social media-like user-generated knowledge with mapping and location discovery tools to help people find their new favorite places. In the Atly app, users create and join map-based communities centered around the things they love. Atly creates a go-to source for previously unmapped content and surfaces gems of information from like-minded people that allow users to trust in the authenticity, integrity, and specificity of every recommendation they uncover. In doing so, Atly gives people intent on discovery the confidence that they're sure to enjoy the places they visit, and creators and businesses are met with higher conversion. The funding will allow Atly to invest in state-of-the-art algorithms and overall performance, to release much anticipated product features and updates, and to collaborate with additional creators. "From Blogger to YouTube to Instagram and TikTok, people seek both community and information online, and they're often finding that intersection on social media. But there is a gaping hole when it comes to location-based information, which is where Atly comes in," said Uriel Maslansky, CEO and Co-Founder of Atly. "We have combined everyone's favorite ingredients - the timeliness and authenticity of user-generated content created by a like-minded, trusted source, the utility and ease of visual mapping, effective tools for hyper-specific discovery, and the thrill of engaging, perfectly on-point content - to allow anyone with an interest, need, or passion to easily unearth their next favorite place to go or thing to do." "It makes no sense. We search for things like 'cafe' or 'restaurant,' when in reality, these are simply proxies for the things we are actually searching for, whether that's a place that serves cold brew or some mouth-watering French toast. And when we finally find a place, the rating and reviews are unreliable. Is the cafe rated 3.5/5 because of the coffee? The atmosphere? Weak Wi-Fi? Talk about a mediocre search experience," said Joshua Kaufman, Atly Co-Founder. "At Atly, we are bringing mapping up to speed with the modern world by enabling people to search for the specific things they actually want - and our organically grown user-base is proof that we're fulfilling this need." "We immediately recognized Atly's ability to revolutionize the mapping ecosystem by bringing both trustworthy social content and a seamless experience to location-based search," said Gal Shmueli, Partner at Tal Ventures. "We are excited to support Atly's vision to enable people to find the places to go and things to do that best align with their unique needs and interests, and we look forward to watching them continue to meet the growing market demand." Download Atly for free in the App Store or Google Play Store by clicking here . About Atly Atly (formerly Steps) is a user-generated mapping platform purpose-built for discovering places to go and things to do. The Tel Aviv and New York-based startup is dedicated to facilitating location-based knowledge sharing by enabling users to create groups for like-minded people about the places and things they love. Atly's proprietary collaborative app blends the visual intuitiveness of mapping with the niche-based specificity of online forums or interest groups, all while leveraging the self-perpetuating insights of social media community sharing. Founded by Uriel Maslansky, Aviad Coppenhagen, and Joshua Kaufman, Atly has raised $18 million from investors including Target Global and Tal Ventures. Press Contact Allison Grey Headline Media atly@headline.media US:+1 323 283 8176 UK:+44 203 807 4482 IL:+972 53 820 2606 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/atly-launches-with-18-million-in-funding-to-introduce-the-next-social-paradigm-for-mapping-and-discovering-places-to-go-301838532.html The new key executive additions will further boost the company's position as a leader in the travel and tech industry TEL AVIV, Israel, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Travelier (formerly Bookaway Group), an online platform for land and sea transportation worldwide, today announced the appointment of Ron Hoffman as Chief Product Officer and Chief Executive Officer of 12GO, a subsidiary of Travelier, and Roy Golding as the Chief Financial Officer of Travelier. The new additions to the team will help to propel Travelier forward with its mission to unify the fragmented ground and sea sector of the travel industry by bridging the gap between offline local suppliers and world travelers who are used to booking travel itineraries online. Serving the last ten years as Vice President of Product at Agoda, Ron Hoffman has demonstrated his ability to drive product innovation, leading multiple successful initiatives in product development, marketing, and data analytics. Equipped with vast knowledge of the travel industry Ron will carry over his experience to bolster Travelier's product capabilities and improve customer experience when using the platform and purchasing transportation tickets online. "I am thrilled to be joining Travelier at such a pivotal moment in the industry, as we focus on unlocking the potential that exists in the land and sea transportation markets around the globe," said Ron Hoffman, Chief Product Officer of Travelier and Chief Executive Officer at 12GO. "Travelier is revolutionizing this overlooked sector, and I am especially looking forward to improving the group's product offerings in Asia and meeting the growing customer demand for travel opportunities in the region." With more than 20 years of experience in senior financial management positions, Roy Golding brings vast experience to his new role as CFO of Travelier. Prior to joining Travelier, he served as the CFO of Gloat, Zerto, and Telmap, where he gained significant knowledge and experience with M&A and Strategic Planning. "Travelier has already made a major impact on the travel industry in a very short period of time," said Roy Golding, CFO of Travelier. "It's exhilarating to be a part of the company at a critical junction in its growth as it extends to connect customers at all corners of the globe. I look forward to building off the prior success it has had to accelerate growth in the market." "We are thrilled to welcome both Roy and Ron to the Travelier leadership team as we enter a period of accelerated and focused growth," said Noam Toister, CEO and co-founder of Travelier. "As we continue to bring in the best talent across our subsidiaries, the Travelier brand only stands to benefit from an influx in invaluable industry knowledge as we set our sights on becoming the leader in the land and sea transport travel industry." About Travelier Travelier, formerly known as Bookaway Group, is a travel-tech company, revolutionizing ground and sea transportation for travelers. Travelier's network of digital platforms allow customers to instantly buy intercity tickets to ferries, buses and trains in local markets which can be usually complex, enabling stress-free travel across the globe. Since its founding in 2017, Travelier has worked to bridge the gap between international travelers and local transportation suppliers - empowering suppliers to grow their businesses, all while easing travel anxiety for the consumer. Travelier's mission to facilitate memorable journeys is not only at the root of their proprietary platform but stretches across their wide range of subsidiaries - Bookaway, Getbybus servicing the Balkans, 12Go in Southeast Asia, SeatOS for the Asia Pacific market, and Plataforma10 and Sisorg servicing Latin America. For more information, visit Travelier.com Travelier Media Contact Tamara Raynor-Cote Headline Media tamara@headline.media IL: +972 58 676 6793 US: +1 914 336 4557 UK: +44 203 769 3469 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/travelier-appoints-former-vp-product-of-agoda-and-cfo-of-gloat-to-leadership-team-301838381.html Andrew Cornelia appointed as CEO of Mercedes-Benz HPC North America, LLC. Christopher Trainor appointed as Chief Financial Officer of the new unit Mercedes-Benz HPC North America aims to build more than 2,500 high-power chargers in North America Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG announced today the appointments of two top-level executives of Mercedes-Benz HPC North America, LLC: Andrew Cornelia as President and Chief Executive Officer, and Christopher Trainor as Chief Financial Officer, both effective in June 2023. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005636/en/ Andrew Cornelia, CEO, Mercedes-Benz HPC North America LLC (Photo: Business Wire) In their new roles, Andrew and Christopher will be responsible for the launch and operations of the Mercedes-Benz charging network in the U.S. and Canada. Mercedes-Benz HPC North America aims to open approximately 400 charging stations comprising more than 2,500 high-power chargers to customers of all EV brands throughout North America by the end of this decade. Andrew and Christopher will also be recruiting, leading and empowering a new team of employees who will be dedicated to executing the company's North American ambitions. "As we continue to move forward with the implementation of our global Mercedes-Benz high-power charging network, I am excited that Andrew and Chris will join us in leading these efforts. Besides many years of experience in this area, Andrew brings to the role a leading vision and a strong sense of purpose for realizing the rapid transition to carbon-neutral transportation. Paired with Chris' deep experience in the automotive and finance industries, we have a winning combination to begin effectively expanding North America's charging infrastructure. And we will do it with the unmistakable commitment to quality and customer experience of the Mercedes-Benz brand." Franz Reiner, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG Andrew Cornelia brings over a decade of experience in electric mobility and charging, and has played a pivotal role in shaping and advancing EV charging infrastructure across the US and globally. At Tesla, he led Strategic Finance for the global charging network, influencing its launch, rapid growth, and move towards open access standards. More recently, he was the executive leading Corporate Strategy and Development at Volta Charging, where he helped pioneer an innovative model that redefined the boundaries of both the EV charging business, as well as the EV driver experience. "I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to launch and lead the Mercedes-Benz high-power charging network in North America. With our inaugural charging hubs set to open by year's end, we aim to redefine the charging experience by channeling the renowned quality, reputation, and driver focus that Mercedes-Benz has embodied for well over a century." Andrew Cornelia, CEO of Mercedes-Benz HPC North America Christopher Trainor has more than 30 years of experience in corporate finance, including various senior leadership roles at Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA. He joined the Chrysler group in 1994 and has been with Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA since 2002. Mercedes-Benz HPC North America is responsible for the development and operation of the Mercedes-Benz high-power charging network in North America, helping realize the next, essential step forward in Mercedes-Benz's electrification strategy: Expansion of the overall North American EV charging map to help propel EV adoption to the next levels. The company is part of the Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG family of companies, the financial and mobility services division of Mercedes-Benz Group AG. Further information on Mercedes-Benz Mobility is available at: group-media.mercedes-benz.com and www.mercedes-benz-mobility.com/en/media-site/. Mercedes-Benz Mobility at a glance With around 10,000 employees, Mercedes-Benz Mobility specialises in financial and mobility services. The products range from financing, leasing, vehicle subscription, rental and fleet management to insurance, innovative mobility services, digital payment solutions as well as products and services around charging.. Mercedes-Benz Mobility is a division of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, which also includes the vehicle manufacturer Mercedes-Benz AG, one of the largest suppliers of premium and luxury passenger cars and vans. Mercedes-Benz Group AG is one of the most successful automotive companies in the world. As financial services provider, Mercedes-Benz Mobility entities support sales of the Mercedes-Benz Group's automotive brands worldwide. In addition, Mercedes-Benz Mobility offers comprehensive products and services in the fields of charging at home, at public and for business use cases. In Germany, Mercedes-Benz Bank is one of the leading vehicle financing banks. Flexible mobility offers such as Mercedes-Benz Rent or EQ subscription, enable an uncomplicated and flexible entry into e-mobility, complementing the service portfolio. With its subsidiary Athlon, Mercedes-Benz Mobility is present in Europe in operational fleet management and vehicle leasing and is responsible for around 400,000 vehicles. In addition, Mercedes-Benz Mobility invests in the market for urban mobility services: The FREE NOW Joint Venture is a pioneer of multimodal mobility with its digital Mobility-as-a-Service platform. The Digital Charging Solutions GmbH (DCS), which is behind the CHARGE NOW Joint Venture, brings together drivers of electric vehicles and charging station operators. The portfolio also includes StarRides a limousine transport service joint venture in China and the participation in the Berlin chauffeur service Blacklane. In 2022, Mercedes-Benz Mobility financed or leased around every second of the Mercedes-Benz Group's vehicles sold worldwide. This corresponds to a contract volume of 132.4 billion . The business segment generated sales of 27.0 billion in 2022 and achieved an EBIT adjusted of 2.4 billion . Mercedes-Benz Mobility operates in 35 countries. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005636/en/ Contacts: Nora Hartmann, +49 176 30942410, nora.hartmann@mercedes-benz.com Michael Kuhn, +49 160 8614768, michael.m.kuhn@mercedes-benz.com The annual tribute gala benefits the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation For additional images, please click here. Credit: Nima Benati The Latin Recording Academy announced that Latin GRAMMY and GRAMMY winner, Laura Pausini, will be the 2023 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year. Pausini will be honored for her career as a multifaceted, multi-lingual performer as well as for her continued commitment to supporting social justice causes that are close to her heart including equality for women and LGBTQ+ people and world hunger. "Laura Pausini is one of the most talented and beloved artists of her generation whose commitment to advocacy and equal rights is exemplary," said Manuel Abud, CEO of The Latin Recording Academy. "Throughout her more than three-decade career her extraordinary voice continually breaks down barriers across languages and genres, creating a special bond with audiences around the world." Meanwhile, Pausini said, "I am extremely honored to receive this incredible recognition from The Latin Recording Academy. To be named Person of the Year at this moment, when I am celebrating 30 years of my career, is something that I still cannot describe, I can only feel a deep gratitude for The Latin Academy and its members, for my colleagues who have always welcomed me with open arms, but, above all, for my beloved audiences who have made a dream born in my hometown in Italy a beautiful reality, and who have taken me to places I never dreamed I would reach with my music. The Spanish language has opened doors for me from a young age, it has made me feel at home, it has inspired me to move forward and to explore and live music without barriers or limits. To say today that I will receive this important recognition fills me with great pride, joy, strength to continue taking strong steps and to inspire the new generation of artists who lift the music they carry in their hearts on high. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, I am very excited. See you soon in Sevilla." Laura Pausini is one of the most celebrated performers in Latin music today. She has seamlessly translated the emotion behind her songs into global success in six different languages, including in the Spanish-language market, where she launched her first album in 1994. Pausini has sold over 70 million albums worldwide and is celebrating 30 years in the music industry in 2023. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she has also used her platform to support philanthropic and humanitarian efforts concerning equality for women and LGBTQ+ people, hunger, poverty, climate change, as well as supporting entities that fight violence against women. Pausini has been honored with the Starlite Humanitarian Award, the Global Gift Humanitarian Award, and was named Person of the Year by the Diversity Media Awards for her support of the LGBTQ+ community. In 1995, she wrote and released "Il Mondo che Vorrei/El Mundo Que Sone" for UNICEF and was named a spokesperson for LILA, Italian League for the fight against AIDS, in 2004. In 2014, she was also named Goodwill Ambassador of the World Food Programme and has organized and participated in concerts that brought relief to areas affected by natural disasters in Chile, Peru, Beirut, and Italy. In 2021, she won a Golden Globe for Best Original Song for "Io si (Seen)" which she co-wrote with Diane Warren for the film La Vita Davanti a Se. The song also earned her an Oscar nomination. Last year, she released the Amazon Original film Laura Pausini: Pleased to Meet You. She is writing her upcoming 11th studio album in Spanish and will kick off an extensive world tour this summer. Pausini will be celebrated at a special star-studded gala featuring a heartfelt tribute concert, including renditions of her renowned repertoire performed by an array of notable artists and friends. Details of the coveted event to be celebrated during the 2023 Latin GRAMMY Week in Sevilla, Spain, will be announced at a later date. The Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year honors musicians and their artistic achievements in the Latin music industry as well as their humanitarian efforts. The past honorees are Marco Antonio Solis (2022), Ruben Blades (2021), Juanes (2019), Mana (2018), Alejandro Sanz (2017), Marc Anthony (2016), Roberto Carlos (2015), Joan Manuel Serrat (2014), Miguel Bose (2013), Caetano Veloso (2012), Shakira (2011), Placido Domingo (2010), Juan Gabriel (2009), Gloria Estefan (2008), Juan Luis Guerra (2007), Ricky Martin (2006), Jose Jose (2005), Carlos Santa (2004), Gilbert Gil (2003), Vincent Hernandez (2002), Julio Celosias (2001) and Emilio Estefan (2000). Net proceeds from the Latin Academy Person of the Year Gala will go toward the charitable work of the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation. ABOUT THE LATIN RECORDING ACADEMY: The Latin Recording Academy is an international nonprofit dedicated to nurturing, celebrating, honoring and elevating Latin music and its creators. Established as the global authority on Latin music, the membership-based organization composed of music professionals produces the annual Latin GRAMMY Awards, The Biggest Night in Latin Music, which honors excellence in the recording arts and sciences, in addition to providing educational and outreach programs for the music community through its Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation. For more information, please visit LatinGRAMMY.com. ABOUT THE LATIN GRAMMY CULTURAL FOUNDATION: The Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization established by The Latin Recording Academy in 2014 to further international awareness and appreciation of the significant contributions of Latin music and its makers to the world's culture. The Foundation provides college scholarships, educational programs and grants for the research and preservation of its rich musical legacy and heritage, and to date has donated more than $7.6 million with the support of Latin Recording Academy members, artists, corporate sponsors and other generous donors. For additional information, or to make a donation, please visit latingrammyculturalfoundation.com, Amazon Smile or our Facebook page. And follow us @latingrammyfdn on Twitter and Instagram, and at Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation on Facebook. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005424/en/ Contacts: The Latin Recording Academy Iveliesse Malave ive@grammy.com 305.576.0036 ORLANDO, FL / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / 3BL Media/ - Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County is proud to announce a new partnership with Wesco International. The leading global supply chain solutions provider with a distribution center in Orlando recently donated $35,000 to support Habitat Orlando & Osceola's Home Preservation Program. This critical initiative provides essential education, inspections and repairs to ensure residents can stay in safe, affordable homes through the upcoming hurricane season and for many years to come. "Natural disasters like hurricanes can have devastating effects on people and families, and it is crucial that we take preventative measures to ensure homes are as safe and secure as possible," said Chris Wolf, Wesco Chief Human Resources Officer and executive sponsor for Wesco Cares. "We encourage other organizations to support Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County to create and maintain affordable housing in our community." The donation will specifically support education and free Wind Mitigation and 4-Point Inspections to those who qualify. These inspections are vital in assessing the structural integrity and safety features of homes. In addition to the financial donation, Wesco team members volunteered to help build homes in Orlando's Silver Pines Pointe community on May 19. "We are incredibly grateful to Wesco for their generosity and commitment to our mission," Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County President and CEO Catherine Steck McManus said. "Their contribution will significantly strengthen our Home Preservation Program that makes lasting impacts on the lives of homeowners and help create stronger, more resilient communities." About Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County Driven by a vision that everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to live, Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County builds and repairs homes and strengthens communities. Families and individuals in need of a hand up partner with Habitat Orlando & Osceola to build or improve places to call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Working together by donating, volunteering or becoming an advocate, everyone can help members of our community live in safe, affordable homes. Founded in 1986, Habitat Orlando & Osceola is one of Habitat for Humanity International's over 1,100 affiliates working in communities throughout the United States and in more than 70 countries. To learn more, visit HabitatOrlandoOsceola.org. About Wesco Wesco International (NYSE:WCC) builds, connects, powers and protects the world. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Wesco is a FORTUNE 500 company with more than $21 billion in annual sales and a leading provider of business-to-business distribution, logistics services and supply chain solutions. Wesco offers a best-in-class product and services portfolio of Electrical and Electronic Solutions, Communications and Security Solutions, and Utility and Broadband Solutions. The Company employs approximately 20,000 people, partners with the industry's premier suppliers, and serves thousands of customers around the world. With millions of products, end-to-end supply chain services, and leading digital capabilities, Wesco provides innovative solutions to meet customer needs across commercial and industrial businesses, contractors, government agencies, institutions, telecommunications providers, and utilities. Wesco operates approximately 800 branches, warehouses and sales offices in more than 50 countries, providing a local presence for customers and a global network to serve multi-location businesses and multi-national corporations. Photo credit: Jacques Durand View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Wesco International on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Wesco International Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/wesco-international Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Wesco International View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758279/Wesco-Partners-With-Habitat-for-Humanity-Greater-Orlando-Osceola-County-To-Support-Home-Preservation PIEDMONT, QC / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Goldflare Exploration Inc. (TSXV:GOFL) ("Goldflare" or "the Company") announces the results of three drill holes from a seven (7) drill hole program totaling 1,816 meters on the Goldfields property, 100% owned by the company. The property is located 35km northeast of the city of Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec. The objective of the program was to validate historical grades and to understand the geometry of known mineralization (see press release of May 3, 2023). The Goldfields property contains a high density of historic drilled gold showings, hosted along the extension of the Porcupine-Destor fault. Iamgold Corporation is currently in the pit development of the Fayolle zone, located approximately 700 meters east of Goldflare's drill program. The Company is pleased to announce a first high-grade gold result of 15.36 g/t over 7.05 meters including an interval of 103.86 g/t over 1 meter from hole AIG-23-13. Here are some key elements of this drilling: Mineralization takes the form of free gold, hosted in an altered and fractured alkaline intrusion. The drilled interval is located immediately below the overburden cover, at a vertical depth of approximately 20 metres. It is located close to the southwestern limit of the historical drill coverage, central to the claim. The spatial position of the discovery leads us to reconsider the geological model and to extend the exploration zone both laterally and in depth along a north-south axis. President and CEO Ghislain Morin mentions: "Exceptional grade is always a surprise for the team. This is the highest gold result documented to date on the property. We are analyzing whether this type of result could be part of a particular enrichment axis in the known area. If the hypothesis is true, we could benefit from this factor which would increase the average grade of Goldfields. The next steps for Goldflare will be to rework the interpretation and plan a new round of drilling. Goldflare presents here the complete results of holes AIG-23-11, AIG-23-12, AIG-23-13. Partial results have been received from holes AIG-23-14 and AIG-23-17. Results are pending for holes AIG-23-15 and AIG-23-16. Current interpretation of the AIG-23-13 results will not be impacted by results to come from these holes considering their location and the targets assigned to them initially. AIG-23-11 Hole AIG-23-11 was drilled to intercept a possible extension of the mineralized system to the southeast using a 12-degree drill azimuth. A first grade of 0.47 g/t over 1 meter was obtained from 104 to 105 meters associated with a high density of quartz veins with pyrite and sericite at the contact. A second grade of 1.38 g/t over 1.5 meters was obtained from 178.5 to 180 meters along the hole, in contact with a strip of lamprophyre altered and brecciated by carbonates. Drilling intersected a thick sequence of vacuolar, carbonatized basalt interspersed with bands of generally sheared ultramafic volcanic rocks and conglomerates. Past a depth of 285 meters, the mafic host is affected by strong diffuse albitization. Finely disseminated pyrite in low percentage appeared along pluri-metric intervals but without however showing gold enrichment. AIG-23-12, AIG-23-13 Hole AIG-23-12 was collared in the southwest sector of the drill grid using a northeast azimuth at 60 degrees to intersect a historical grade. The drilling had to be abandoned after crossing a major fault zone for more than 50 meters. Drilling intersected a sheared lamprophyre dyke altered to feldspar and carbonate between 23 and 42 meters along the hole. Two intervals returned grades of 0.45 g/t and 0.6 g/t over 3 meters and 3.4 meters respectively. Hole AIG-23-13 was collared on the same location using a steeper plunge angle of 10 degrees. The same altered and sheared lamprophyre dyke was intersected from the rock surface at 20.8 meters to a depth of 43 meters. An interval of 15.36 g/t over 7.05 meters can be calculated by including an enrichment zone of 103.86 g/t over 1 meter based on the continuity of the feldspar-carbonate-carbonate shear and alteration system. Mineralization is in the form of free gold particles that reach millimeter size, locally concentrated in clusters. Picture: visible gold in millimetric grains, AIG-23-13, 23.5m (sample 94023) Results and methodology Table 1: calculation of weighted averages Coord-UTMnad83, Z17 DDH_No From: To: Length Au_g/t 661417E - 5367045N AIG-23-11 104 105 1 0,47 178,5 180 1,5 1,38 661337E - 5367079N CDR-23-12 25 28 3 0,45 MET* 39 42,4 3,4 0,6 661338E - 5367077N AIG-23-13 24 31,05 7,05 15,36 MET* 24 25 1 103,86 MET*: re-analysis by metallic sieve. Table 2: Hole AIG-23-13, details of results and fire assay - sieving comparison DDH No From: To: Sample Length No Sample Fire Assay (30gr) Sieving m m m g/t g/t AIG-23-13 24 25 1 94023 17,93 103,86 25 26 1 94024 1,021 1,02 26 27,25 1,25 94025 0,093 0,3 27,25 27,8 0,55 94026 0,527 1,02 27,8 29,05 1,25 94027 0,397 1,04 29,05 30 0,95 94028 0,142 0,22 30 31,05 1,05 94029 0,596 0,91 All samples are sawn in half and assayed by fire assay method. The observation of visible gold triggers a resampling procedure of a quarter core for analysis by metallic sieve. These values ??take precedence over the fire assay result. Metallic sieve results are assumed to represent the complete distribution of gold particles in a sample. The results obtained for hole AIG-23-13 indicate that a significant fraction of the gold for a wide grade range is in the form of coarse particles. However, this type of analysis is likely to highlight a nugget effect that is not representative of the average grades obtained in a mineralized lens. The results are expressed in core length at this stage. Modeling work of the geology and gold concentrations will be necessary to assess the orientation and geometry of a mineralized lens. DDH No UTMnad83_X UTMnad83_Y Azimut Angle Length AIG-23-11 661417 5367045 12 -65 390 AIG-23-12 661337 5367079 60 -60 120 AIG-23-13 661338 5367077 60 -70 200 AIG-23-14 661335 5367051 32 -70 303 AIG-23-15 661444 5367041 340 -65 276 AIG-23-16 661424 5367113 30 -74 325 AIG-23-17 661424 5367111 30 -58 202 QAQC The drilling positions were recorded by Garmin GPS with an accuracy within 3 meters. A Reflex EZ-TRAC instrument was used to trace the borehole. The examination, description and sampling are carried out on the property. The samples were delivered to Laboratoire Expert inc. of Rouyn-Noranda. The analysis is done by fire assay with collection of gold by lead on a sub-sample of 30 grams taken from a pulverized fraction of 250 grams. The analyzed value is obtained by a procedure of dissolution with aqua regia and dosage by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) for results lower than 3 g/t. Results above 3 g/t are reanalyzed and determined by gravimetry. Metallic sieve samples are prepared from a whole sample pulverized and sieved to 100 mesh (149 m). The fractions below and above 100 mesh are analyzed separately by fire assay with a gravimetric finish. The final result is a weighted average of the two fractions. Samples of blanks, certified standards, preparation duplicates and sample duplicates are inserted into the sample chain. The technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed by Martin Demers, P.Geo. (OGQ No. 770), consultant for Goldflare Exploration and qualified person under National Instrument 43-101 Disclosure of Mineral Projects. For more information: Ghislain Morin CEO 819-354-9439 ghislainmorin@goldflare.ca Serge Roy Chairman of the Board 819-856-8435 sergeroy@goldflare.ca SOURCE: Goldflare Exploration Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758139/New-Discovery-Goldflare-Obtains-15GT-Over-7-Meters-on-the-Goldfields-Project LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Astral Dynamic Networks (ASTRADYNE) a United States development stage Company, creator, and provider of pioneering technology solutions, announced today the appointment of its Head of Offshore Technology Development and the engagement of Romanian development teams through InnovatorSpark assigned in connection with selected smart modules of its technology. ASTRADYNE is deploying these teams to strengthen its product engineering efforts. The Company named Mihai Runcan as its Head of Offshore Technology Development, and appointed him as a member of its Technology Board. Mr. Runcan will lead offshore development efforts in connection with certain aspects of the Company's groundbreaking Cloud based Intelligent Platform and he will work with its CIO Nate Zaugg, COO Chad Atkinson and Co-Chief Product Designer Roberto Marchisio while reporting directly to Fabrizio Boccardi CEO and Co-Chief Product Designer of ASTRADYNE. InnovatorSpark, an established Romanian software developer is ASTRADYNE's first licensed Partner Developer in Eastern Europe, assisting the Company with talent resources and recruiting requirements as well as customer service and retention. The Company is working on new disruptive technology and services that promise to impact and transform how to connect, interact and achieve unmatched productivity in all business, commercial and social activities. Mihai Runcan stated "I couldn't be more excited to be a meaningful part of ASTRADYNE's memorable vision and endeavor to transform and improve all commerce and social interaction. I am a firm believer that ASTRADYNE's CEO Fabrizio Boccardi is an ingenious leader, poised to overhaul using most efficient and innovative technology, how we all communicate, negotiate, and transact." ASTRADYNE aims to launch its software in the market as soon as its technology is perfected with an anticipated public listing of its securities or IPO on the docket by 2026 or 2027. About ASTRADYNE: Astral Dynamic Networks (" ASTRADYNE, INC") is a United States growth-stage technology company that creates, designs, develops, and licenses evolutionary high-tech systems, methods, tools, and applications focused on providing innovative means of commerce and communication via groundbreaking products and services for consumers, businesses, industries, governments, and financial institutions worldwide. ASTRADYNE is pioneering novel systems and technologies designed to revolutionize the digital highway for commerce and social interplay. Its technology solutions are impactful and transformational, designed to forge the future of commerce and social interaction, defying limitations, and creating the future of business and consumer exchange through next generation commerce. www.AstralDynamicNetworks.com About InnovatorSpark: InnovatorSpark is a software company based in Romania's Silicon Valley - Cluj-Napoca, serving clients all over the world. The Company has grown exponentially in the last several years due to the expertise and dedication of its highly qualified teams of architects, engineers, designers, and analysts. From staff augmentation to end-to-end software development, InnovatorSpark is dedicated to delivering excellence and authenticity while meeting the highest standards of technical expertise. www.InnovatorSpark.com FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This release includes forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned that these forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including acceptance of Astradyne's products, increased levels of competition for Astradyne's new products and technological changes, Astradyne's dependence on third-party suppliers, and other risks. CONTACT: James Hedberg, VP of Finance jim.hedberg@astradyne.us SOURCE: Astradyne, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/757886/Astral-Dynamic-Networks-Poised-to-Jolt-Software-Proficiencies-in-Productivity-with-its-Forefront-Intelligent-Technology NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / The Home Depot Originally published on Built From Scratch As a military policeman in the U.S. Army, Staff Sergeant Chris Burrell was leaving on a mission to support Iraqi police when explosives destroyed his vehicle. The blast took his left leg above the knee, severely damaged his right leg and left him with a traumatic brain injury. Before being medically evacuated, he called his five-year old-daughter and bravely told her, "Daddy had a boo-boo." Chris survived his severe wounds and focused on his rehabilitation. Despite the odds being stacked against him, he fought to stay on active duty and returned to Fort Bragg to continue his military career. Chris went on to manage his brigade's canine program, overseeing an operation that included 112 military working dogs. In 2021, after 20 years of service, Chris retired from the Army. He continues to focus on transitioning in a way that will bring stability for his future. Recently, The Home Depot Foundation partnered with Jared Allen's Homes for Wounded Warriors to build a smart home that is specially designed to meet his individual needs. Chris' home is wheelchair accessible throughout, with zero-threshold entryways and exits. Lower and roll-under countertops and pull-down shelving allow Chris to stay in his wheelchair as he moves from room to room. The home also features a large main bathroom with a wheelchair-accessible shower. Since 2011, The Home Depot Foundation has invested more than $475 million in veteran causes and improved more than 55,000 veteran housing facilities. The Foundation and its nonprofit partners are working to end veteran homelessness through several key strategies. This includes funding programs to help more veterans access housing. Visit HomeDepotFoundation.org to learn more. Keep up with all the latest Home Depot news! Subscribe to our bi-weekly news update and get the top Built from Scratch stories delivered straight to your inbox. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from The Home Depot on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: The Home Depot Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/home-depot Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: The Home Depot View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758287/A-Home-for-a-Hero-The-Home-Depot-Foundation-and-Jared-Allens-Homes-for-Wounded-Warriors-Help-Army-Veteran-Rebuild-His-Life TOKYO / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / We are pleased to announce the launch of Blackbox, a media outlet for startup stakeholders who are interested in the Japanese startup landscape but did not have access to boots-on-the-ground information - until now. Queue, Inc., headquartered in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan, was commissioned by Shibuya-ku's Startup Support Project, a project to build a global startup ecosystem. Blackbox logo Blackbox logo Queue, Inc. already provides the Business Development Departments of Japanese companies with SUNRYSE, a database that communicates information on startups from around the world. Through Blackbox, we will ensure that this information becomes a two-way street, promoting information on current Japanese startups to startup stakeholders around the world. What Blackbox achieves Blackbox communicates the Japanese startup scene to the world in an open and fair manner. In current-day Japan, there is so much going on behind the scenes. Sensing that Japan was falling behind in the tech industry, both public and private companies have dedicated money, effort, and legislature towards reinvigorating the Japanese startup ecosystem. This includes new initiatives to attract and foster startups from abroad. The problem is not many people outside Japan know this. At Blackbox, we want to make as many people as possible aware of what is happening in Japan right now and what opportunities and possibilities exist in relation to startups in Japan. By presenting startup news and stories in English, we hope to raise awareness of startup-related movements in Japan as a whole and, in the future, attract international founders, startups and funds as well. About Shibuya Startup Support Shibuya Startup Support is one of the projects of Shibuya City to support international startups and entrepreneurs, and acts as a concierge to support the launch and growth of businesses in Shibuya City. SSS provides support for procedures such as visa acquisition and registration for overseas startups, admin for acquiring office space, housing, and bank loans, as well as advice on social implementation, support for community participation, and other support projects for domestic and foreign entrepreneurs. Shibuya City considers it an issue that Japan has almost no media that disseminate news about the local startup scene in English. Based on this, Shibuya City believes that the establishment of a media outlet that transmits information on the Japanese startup scene to the rest of the world will promote Japan to the world and attract foreign human resources and investment centered on Shibuya, thereby accelerating the internationalization of the startup industry and the creation of innovation in Japan as well as in Shibuya. What does Blackbox Publish? News: news and market trends related to startups Insights: long-form articles on domestic startup trends Interviews: with founders active in Japan Introduction of the first round of interviews Bilal Kharouni ekei labs / co-founder Wei Chai MaWaRoute / co-founder Jun Iinuma alphaspace inc / Co-founder & CEO nuuma inc / CEO Come and Say Hi Blackbox LinkedIn Twitter Instagram See here for our media kit Contact Information Taiki Iwasaki Management contact@blackboxjp.com 03-6407-9982 Eri Furukawa Public Relations Manager eri.furukawa@queue-inc.com 03-6407-9982 Related Files Blackbox_press release_EN.pdf SOURCE: Blackbox View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758078/Blackbox-Announces-the-Launch-of-Its-Global-Media-Outlet-Providing-Information-on-Japanese-Startups-and-Ecosystems Data presented at the 2023 ASCO Annual Meeting confirms BluePrint accurately reveals the driving forces behind a tumor's growth, independent of race With over 1,000 Black women enrolled, Agendia's FLEX trial is the largest prospective cohort of Black women with whole genome and clinical data, fueling critical discoveries of their gene expression At the 2023 ASCO Annual Meeting,Agendia, Inc., a gene expression profiling company advancing personalized early-stage breast cancer care, reinforces its commitment to progressing research of racial disparities in breast cancer through two poster presentations. Building off the research presented at the 2022 annual meeting, which found that BluePrint identifies stark racial disparities among women with HR+HER2- tumors [1], the data presented at this year's meeting examines the impact of race on the underlying biology of HER2+ tumors. This data, in addition to substantial growth in enrollment in Agendia's FLEX trial, demonstrates the importance of understanding how race influences a tumor's gene expression to inform personalized, biology-based breast cancer care for patients of all racial and ethnic backgrounds. Accurately defining a woman's tumor and its risk of reoccurrence at the earliest stage possible in her breast cancer journey is critical to optimizing and personalizing treatment planning. Yet, the pathological processes and 21-gene genomic tests commonly used by health systems often do not account for the impact a woman's race can have on the underlying biology of her tumor. Not only are Black women's tumors often misclassified [2], but their risk is also underestimated over 60% of the time [3]. Agendia is committed to advancing the industry's understanding of the racial disparities in the underlying biology of women's tumors, as evidenced by this latest research. In a poster titled "Impact of race on BluePrint genomic subtyping in HER2+ breast cancer," Agendia illustrates that race did not influence the biology underlying clinically-defined HER2+ tumors, with BluePrint reclassifying White women and Black women as Luminal, Basal, or HER2 in proportional numbers. This is a stark contrast to previous research on HR+HER2- tumors, which found Black women are twice as likely to have aggressive Basal-type tumors compared to White women [4]. "Every woman, regardless of her race, should have equal access to unbiased insights into her cancer, and a reliable view into what the future of her treatment holds. Yet, the inherent bias of today's conventional genomic testing and reliance on oversimplified pathological insights fails, and even harms, many women of color," said William Audeh, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Agendia. "At Agendia, we are leading the charge in changing the status quo of breast cancer care for those who have historically been marginalized in both cancer research and genomic assay development through practice-changing research." Agendia is also showcasing the impact of its FLEX trial to accelerate research for racial and ethnic groups that are typically underrepresented in clinical trials. Building on its milestone achievement of 10,000 enrolled patients announced at the 2022 annual meeting, the FLEX trial now includes the genomic and clinical data of over 13,000 women, including over 1,000 Black women. This makes FLEX the largest prospective cohort of Black women with whole genome and clinical data. Expanding the power of genomic insights ultimately helps inform personalized, biology-based care for these women and overcome enduring racial disparities in breast cancer care. Agendia will also present a poster on MammaPrint's ability to predict chemotherapy response in women with high-risk early-stage breast cancer, and an oral presentation on the ability of genomic biomarkers to predict a woman's response to immunotherapy. Agendia will be sharing updates throughout the conference on its Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn pages. About Agendia Agendia is a mission-driven, commercial stage company focused on enabling optimized decision-making by providing physicians with next-generation diagnostic and information solutions that can be used to help improve outcomes for breast cancer patients worldwide. The company currently offers two commercially-available genomic profiling tests that help surgeons, oncologists and pathologists to personalize treatment for women at critical intervention points throughout their patient journey. MammaPrint is a 70-gene prognostic test that, along with other clinicopathologic factors, determines a specific patient's breast cancer recurrence risk. BluePrint is an 80-gene molecular subtyping test that identifies the underlying biology of an individual breast cancer to provide information about its behavior. Together, MammaPrint and BluePrint provide a holistic view of the biology underlying an individual patient's breast cancer, enabling physicians to objectively select the best treatment plan. For more information on Agendia's assays and ongoing trials, please visit www.agendia.com. [1]Reid, S., et al. (2022). Whole transcriptomic analysis of HR+ breast cancer in Black women classified as basal-type by BluePrint. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 40(16, Suppl.), 517-517. https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/JCO.2022.40.16_suppl.517 [2] Reid, S., et al. (2021). MammaPrint and BluePrint identify genomic differences in HR+ HER2- breast cancers from young Black and White women. Presented at SABCS 2021. https://agendia.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/SABCS_2021_poster_VUMC.pdf [3]Robinson, P., et. al. (2021). Genomic risk classification by the 70-gene signature and 21-gene assay in African American, early-stage breast cancer patients. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 30(15, Suppl.). https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/JCO.2021.39.15_suppl.e12568 [4] Reid, S., et al. (2022). Whole transcriptomic analysis of HR+ breast cancer in Black women classified as basal-type by BluePrint. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 40(16, Suppl.), 517-517. https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/JCO.2022.40.16_suppl.517 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005237/en/ Contacts: Kerry Harrington FleishmanHillard for Agendia Kerry.harrington@fleishman.com Nium's global payroll offering serves market expected to reach $19.5 billion by 2031 by removing regulatory complexities and reducing settlement times. SAN FRANCISCO and SINGAPORE, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Nium, the leader in real-time global payments, has enhanced its market-leading payroll payments solution to support the complex needs of payroll platforms worldwide. Nium's payroll solution simplifies global growth for a majority of payroll platforms, including Panther, a provider of global employment, payroll, benefits, and contractor software that can be integrated with an HR tech stack. In addition to expanded network and currency coverage in Canada, Africa, Middle East, Latin America, and Asia Pacific, new enhancements to this offering include: Foreign Exchange (FX) Transparency: Allows for end-to-end FX control, which includes transparent costs with a single clear FX markup and one low per-transaction fee to help manage costs at scale. With this, clients can schedule bulk conversion for ease and control, lock FX rates to manage FX fluctuation, and configure fees at the customer level for flexibility; Allows for end-to-end FX control, which includes transparent costs with a single clear FX markup and one low per-transaction fee to help manage costs at scale. With this, clients can schedule bulk conversion for ease and control, lock FX rates to manage FX fluctuation, and configure fees at the customer level for flexibility; Beneficiary Pre-screen and Confirmation of Payee: Minimizes potential returns with verified payee information and keeps the payment process quick and smooth; Minimizes potential returns with verified payee information and keeps the payment process quick and smooth; Scheduled Payouts: Enables clients to disburse payments to their workforce on a certain date. Provides predictability to their clients' employees on when to expect to receive their salary payouts; Enables clients to disburse payments to their workforce on a certain date. Provides predictability to their clients' employees on when to expect to receive their salary payouts; Direct Debit in the US, UK, and EU: Provides the ability for platform clients to pull funds from their customers' primary bank accounts into their Nium wallet to fund payroll payouts, this improves cash flows and reduces friction. The global payroll outsourcing market was pegged at $9.9 billion in 2021, according to U.S.-based Allied Market Research. Growing at a CAGR of 7.2% from 2022 to 2031, the market is expected to reach $19.5 billion - making it one of the largest and fastest growing opportunities in global payments. The need to hire at scale across borders is rapidly becoming a key competition for companies. But, adding remote workers adds significant cost and complexity to payroll operations, simplified by the growing number of third-party payroll platforms. Specifically, 80% of companies believe that transparent foreign exchange rates are important for payroll providers. By making Nium's fees transparent, its clients can have more control over their finances. "Global payroll is complex," says Robin Gandhi, CPO of Nium. "Every country has different regulations, including tax laws, employment laws and data privacy laws which make the compliance process tricky, and that's what payroll platforms do best. However, getting money to every employee or contractor on payday in their preferred account, on-time, and across multiple geographies is not easy. With our global payments network and payroll specific functionality, we make payroll seamless, so platforms don't have to worry about the technical and legal lift to send money across the world knowing that their employees will have access to funds when they need them." "We trust Nium to move funds reliably, quickly, and compliantly around the world and across different corridors," said Matt Redler, CEO and Co-founder of Panther. "We consider their payroll solution a trusted component of our engine. Specifically, their transparent FX capabilities allow us to price our FX revenue stream in a competitive way. We're excited about Nium's payroll enhancements and our continued partnership." Nium's payroll solution goes beyond the ordinary, offering a comprehensive suite of products to empower global payroll platforms and businesses to seamlessly onboard, transact and manage payroll for employees and contractors worldwide, including competitive FX, built-in compliance, real-time payments, security offerings, zero-deduction wire transfers, and multiple market coverage. However, the company understands that payroll is not merely a transactional process; it is mission critical money movement that holds the power to impact lives and it's important to have a partner businesses can trust. By leveraging Nium's global payment platform, platforms and businesses can put their trust in Nium while they focus on growing globally with improved operational efficiency and exceptional customer experience. About Nium Nium, the leader in real-time global payments, was founded on the mission to deliver the global payments infrastructure of tomorrow, today. With the onset of the on-demand economy, its payments infrastructure is shaping how banks, fintechs, and businesses everywhere collect, convert, and disburse funds instantly across borders. Its payout network supports 100 currencies and spans 190+ countries, 100 of which in real-time. Funds can be disbursed to accounts, wallets, and cards and collected locally in 35 markets. Nium's growing card issuance business is already available in 34 countries. Nium holds regulatory licenses and authorizations in more than 40 countries, enabling seamless onboarding, rapid integration, and compliance - independent of geography. The company is co-headquartered in San Francisco and Singapore, with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1678669/Nium_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/nium-enhances-global-payroll-payments-solution-offers-transparent-foreign-exchange-fx-rates-for-more-predictable-payroll-301837965.html Regulatory News: TotalEnergies (Paris:TTE) (LSE:TTE) (NYSE:TTE) and its co-venturers Petrobras, QatarEnergy and PETRONAS Petroleo Brasil Ltda (PPBL) have signed on 31 May 2023 the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) for the Agua Marinha block, which was awarded in the Open Acreage under Production Sharing Regime 1st Cycle held by Brazil's National Petroleum Agency (ANP) in December 2022. Agua Marinha is a 1,300 sq.km exploration block located in the pre-salt Campos Basin south of the Marlim Sul field and about 140 km from shore. The work program includes drilling one firm exploration well during the exploration period. "The signature of the PSC for Agua Marinha expands our presence in this promising area of the pre-salt Campos Basin, alongside our three strategic partners, and we are looking forward looking to exploring the block and drilling the Touro prospect" said Kevin McLachlan, Senior Vice President, Exploration of TotalEnergies. "Offshore Brazil, with its material low-cost, low-emission resources is a core area for the Company. This block, along with the two South Santos basin concessions obtained in 2022, further reinforces our exploration portfolio in this high potential area." TotalEnergies will participate in the block with a 30% interest, alongside operator Petrobras (30%), QatarEnergy (20%) and PPBL (20%). About TotalEnergies in Brazil TotalEnergies has been operating in Brazil for almost 50 years, through six subsidiaries, and today employs more than 3,000 people in its business segments, in Exploration Production, gas, renewable electricity (solar and wind), lubricants, chemicals and distribution. TotalEnergies' Exploration Production portfolio currently includes 11 licenses, of which 4 are operated. In 2022, the Company's average production in the country was 104,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. TotalEnergies is investing in the growth of the renewable energy segment in Brazil. TotalEnergies' subsidiary Total Eren has 300 MW of solar and wind projects in operation. In October 2022, the company entered into a partnership with Casa dos Ventos, Brazil's leading renewable energy player, to jointly develop a 12 GW renewable energy portfolio. TotalEnergies is also active in the Brazilian fuel distribution market with a network of about 240 filling stations as well as several storage facilities for petroleum products and ethanol. About TotalEnergies TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to energy that is ever more affordable, cleaner, more reliable and accessible to as many people as possible. Active in nearly 130 countries, TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the well-being of people. @TotalEnergiesTotalEnergiesTotalEnergiesTotalEnergies Cautionary Note The terms "TotalEnergies", "TotalEnergies company" or "Company" in this document are used to designate TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by TotalEnergies SE. Likewise, the words "we", "us" and "our" may also be used to refer to these entities or to their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE directly or indirectly owns a shareholding are separate legal entities. This document may contain forward-looking information and statements that are based on a number of economic data and assumptions made in a given economic, competitive and regulatory environment. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are subject to a number of risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries assumes any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information or statement, objectives or trends contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Information concerning risk factors, that may affect TotalEnergies' financial results or activities is provided in the most recent Universal Registration Document, the French-language version of which is filed by TotalEnergies SE with the French securities regulator Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF), and in the Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005726/en/ Contacts: TotalEnergies Media Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 99 l presse@totalenergies.com l @TotalEnergiesPR Investor Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 46 l ir@totalenergies.com 31 May 2023 EDX Medical Group Plc ("EDX Medical" or the "Company") Total Voting Rights In accordance with the Financial Conduct Authority's Disclosure and Transparency Rules, EDX Medical hereby announces that the Company has 285,625,000 ordinary shares of 1 pence each ("Ordinary Shares") in issue, each share carrying the right to one vote. The above figure of 285,625,000 Ordinary Shares may be used by shareholders in the Company as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in, the share capital of the Company under the Financial Conduct Authority's Disclosure and Transparency Rules. The directors of the Company accept responsibility for the contents of this announcement. For more information, please contact: EDX Medical PLC Mike Hudson Tel: +44 (0) 7812 345 301 Peterhouse Capital Limited Guy Miller Tel: +44 (0) 20 7220 9795 Media House International Ramsay Smith Tel:+44 (0) 7788 414856 email: ramsay@mediahouse.co.uk Apply HERE by July 10th MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Bacardi U.S.A. and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) launched today Vision Verde, a multi-year platform that will provide dedicated support to Hispanic/Latinx-owned businesses becoming more sustainable within the beverage alcohol service, sales, and hospitality industries in Greater Miami. In the first year of the program, $100,000 will be granted across 10 recipients -- $10,000 to each of the business. To learn more and apply by July 10th, please visit: http://hhf.page.link/jcgw . The recipients will be announced during the Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th - October 15th) and have access to Cocteleria Consciente, a Hispanic owned sustainability consultancy with expertise in the hospitality sector. Cocteleria Consciente will provide tailored consulting services for each business to implement practical sustainability initiatives that will drive positive impact. "Latino small businesses are the fastest growing by far in the United States, and the Miami region is one of the leaders in the sector," said Antonio Tijerino, President and CEO of HHF. "Entrepreneurship is in our blood and despite challenges, we continue to make a significant impact through vision, creativity and 'ganas'. Latino entrepreneurship is good for our community, our country and we want to make sure it's also good for our globe. Through the innovative Vision Verde program with Bacardi, we want to support Latino business not only grow but become more sustainable as part of their business model." According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Hispanics constitute a significant portion of Miami's population, accounting for more than 70 percent of residents. A study conducted by the Pew Research Center found that Hispanics in the US are more likely to prioritize environmental protection compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Also, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) reports that Hispanic households in the U.S. are more likely to face energy burdens, spending a larger proportion of their income on energy bills. In addition, the 2020 U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Equity Report highlights that Hispanics are underrepresented in leadership positions within the green building industry, indicating a need for greater inclusivity and diversity in sustainability initiatives and research by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication reveals that 77 percent of Hispanics in the United States are worried about global warming and believe it is currently happening. "Bacardi is a family-owned company of Latin roots, originally born in Cuba more than 160 years ago. Our legacy was built on giving back to communities and always doing the right thing for people and the planet. We are excited to help Hispanic business owners bring their green vision to life and support environmental sustainability - something we are extremely passionate about," says Eddie Cutillas, VP Community Relations, Bacardi. Bacardi, the world's largest privately held international spirits company, has set ambitious sustainability targets and commitments to supporting communities through its extensive Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) program, named Good Spirited. About the Hispanic Heritage Foundation HHF is a national nonprofit focused on education, workforce, and social impact through culture and leadership. Visit www.HispanicHeritage.org and follow HHF on Instagram , Facebook , LinkedIn , TikTok , Twitter , and YouTube . About Bacardi U.S.A., Inc. Bacardi U.S.A., Inc. is the United States import and distribution arm of family-owned Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held international spirits company in the world. The company boasts a portfolio of some of the most recognized and top-selling spirits brands in the United States including BACARDI rum, GREY GOOSE vodka, PATRON tequila, DEWAR'S Blended Scotch Whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE gin, CAZADORES 100% blue agave tequila, MARTINI & ROSSI vermouth and sparkling wines, and other leading and emerging brands. Visit www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on LinkedIn , Instagram or Twitter . Media Inquiries: HHF: Nicolas Pena, Communications and Program Specialist, nicolas@hispanicheritage.com Bacardi: Jessica Merz, VP Global Corporate Communications, Bacardi, jmerz@bacardi.com View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Bacardi Limited on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Bacardi Limited Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/bacardi-limited Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Bacardi Limited View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758309/Bacardi-and-Hispanic-Heritage-Foundation-Announce-Visin-Verde-Effort-To-Support-Latinx-Owned-Business-in-Greater-Miami-in-Becoming-More-Sustainable Completion of the acquisition of 100% of Spedimex, a leading player in contract logistics in Poland and a specialist in the fashion and e-commerce sectors (2022 revenues of 109 million) Strengthening of ID Logistics geographical footprint in Poland with 15 new locations and blue-chip customers Transaction paid 70% in new ID Logistics shares and 30% in cash Regulatory News: ID Logistics, (ISIN: FR0010929125, Ticker: IDL), one of the European leaders in contract logistics is announcing the completion of the acquisition of 100% of Spedimex, a major player in contract logistics in Poland, with strong expertise in the fashion and e-commerce sectors. ACQUISITION OF SPEDIMEX Founded in 1993, Spedimex has become a key player in contract logistics in Poland, with recognized expertise in the fashion and e-commerce sectors for major international and Polish brands, as well as in cosmetics. In addition to contract logistics, Spedimex offers a solid distribution and transport network, value-added logistics services or detail preparation. Spedimex has developed an asset-light model and operates in 15 sites across the country representing 230,000 m. The company has implemented sophisticated mechanization and technology solutions capable of managing large and complex flows such as, for example, stores and e-commerce returns from more than 15 European countries for a single customer. In recent years, Spedimex has significantly increased its turnover to reach PLN 510 million ( 109 million) in 2022. This strategic acquisition for ID Logistics is motivated by the close proximity of cultures and the very similar business models of the two companies: asset light approach, dedicated warehouses, solutions adapted to the specific needs of each operation. The complementarity of customer portfolios and technical expertises between Spedimex and ID Logistics will also allow the development of significant commercial synergies, in particular for leading international customers. Adding Spedimex is perfectly in line with ID Logistics' strategy to support its major customers in their development in Europe and America. Finally, in a dynamic of post-Covid industrial relocation, ID Logistics is strengthening its position in a very dynamic market which already plays a central role in the current reorganizations of supply chains in Europe and records the highest growth in continental Europe. With the acquisition of Spedimex, ID Logistics becomes a market leader in Poland with 35 sites, 7,000 employees and a portfolio of leading industrial customers, retailers and e-merchants. Spedimex will operate under the name ID Logistics and the new entity will be headed by Yann Belgy, Managing Director of ID Logistics in Poland, with Marcin Bak, CEO of Spedimex, providing a 6-month transition period by his side. Yann Belgy, Managing Director of ID Logistics Poland comments "The founders and teams of Spedimex have developed real expertise, particularly in apparel and cosmetics logistics. We are very pleased to join forces today to offer even more value and opportunities to the customers and teams of our 2 companies TRANSACTION DETAILS The transaction was paid in cash for 23.5m and for the equivalent of 53.9m in new ID Logistics Group shares issued to Marcin Bak, former main shareholder and CEO of Spedimex, becoming a 3.2% shareholder of ID Logistics Group. These payment terms allow ID Logistics to maintain a solid financial structure post-acquisition. In addition to the acquisition of Spedimex, Eric Hemar, Chairman and CEO of ID Logistics Group, has contributed to ID Logistics Group, through the company Immod over which he has control, his 5.0% stake in the sub-holding Ficopar in exchange of new ID Logistics Group shares. This rationalization of the legal structure enables ID Logistics Group to hold 100% of its sub-holding Ficopar. After these two capital transactions, Eric Hemar slightly increases its direct and indirect ownership to 53.0% of the shares of ID Logistics Group, thus retaining the possibility of paying in shares for future acquisitions, ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ID Logistics would like to thank its teams and advisors: Hogan Lovells in France and Poland for corporate M&A (Jean-Marc Franceschi, Arnaud Biancheri Piotr Kwasiborski, Tomasz Zak) and antitrust (Piotr Skurzynski) 8Advisory (Pierre David Forterre, Hubert Christophe, Jeremy Cosma) JP Weber (Piotr Dalak, Zbigniew Dus) Gowling (Barbara Jouffa, Claire Helene Dore) DZP (Pawel Piorunski, Filip Krezel) for financial, tax and legal due diligence. NEXT RELEASE Q2 2023 revenues: July 24, 2023, after market close. ABOUT ID LOGISTICS : ID Logistics, managed by Eric Hemar, is an international contract logistics group with revenue of 2.5 billion in 2022. ID Logistics manages 375 sites across 18 countries representing more than 8 million square meters of warehousing facilities in Europe, America, Asia and Africa, with 30,000 employees. With a client portfolio balanced between retail, e-commerce and consumer goods, ID Logistics is characterized by offers involving a high level of technology. Developing a social and environmental approach through a number of original projects since its creation in 2001, the Group is today resolutely committed to an ambitious CSR policy. ID Logistics shares are listed on the regulated market of Euronext Paris, compartment A (ISIN code: FR0010929125, Ticker: IDL). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005701/en/ Contacts: ID LOGISTICS Yann Perot CFO Tel: +33 (0)4 42 11 06 00 yperot@id-logistics.com INVESTOR Relations NewCap Tel. 33 (0)1 44 71 94 94 idlogistics@newcap.eu Solid growth in subscriptions drives positive start to the year: Q1 2023 consolidated sales up 2.1% organically Key highlights Consolidated sales of 256 million , up + 2.1 % organically 1 and up +1.3% on a reported basis , and up +1.3% on a reported basis Q1 2023 s ubscription-related revenue up + 3. 1 % on an organic basis, representing 72 % of total revenue on an organic basis, Strong performance from North America with all three solutions contributing to the +5.9% organic growth in the region with all three solutions contributing to the +5.9% organic growth in the region FY 2023 outlook confirmed Paris, 31 May 2023, Quadient S.A. (Euronext Paris: QDT, eligible for PEA-PME investing), a leader in business solutions for meaningful customer connections through digital and physical channels, announces today its 2023 first-quarter consolidated sales (period ended on 30 April 2023). Geoffrey Godet, Chief Executive Officer of Quadient S.A., stated: "We had a positive start to the year with Q1 sales driven by continuous strong performance in North America and further growth in subscription-related revenue. The good momentum experienced in North America reflects the scale and maturity of our business model in the region while we are now increasingly focusing on rolling out our strategic plan in other regions, particularly in Western Europe. For example, in the UK and in France, we are driving the deployment of our open parcel locker networks as well as growing our recently launched automated accounts receivable and accounts payable software offerings. We are also very much encouraged by the contribution of each one of our three Solutions to the first quarter sales. Our Mail-Related Solutions continue to show a high level of resilience and good hardware placements. As the transition towards a SaaS2 model nears completion, revenue from our Software activities is accelerating to a double-digit organic growth. And we expect higher customer retention, more up-selling and more cross-selling to be driven by our newly released integrated modular hub for which over 1,000 customers have already been onboarded within a few weeks. Last but not least, Parcel Locker Solutions delivered a healthy organic growth with improving trends in the US and positive developments in Europe. Based on this good start to the year, we confirm our FY 2023 guidance as well as our mid-term 2021-23 financial targets." FIRST-QUARTER 2023 SALES Group sales stood at 256 million in Q1 2023, a 2.1% organic growth compared to Q1 2022 and a 1.3% increase on a reported basis. The variation includes a positive currency impact of +0.6% or 1 million and a negative scope effect of (1.4)% or (3) million. The change of scope is related to the divestments of the Graphic activities in the Nordics and the Shipping business in France, both sold in June 2022. Consolidated sales by Solution Consolidated Sales In million Q1 2023 Q1 2022 restated(a) Change Organic change1 Intelligent Communication Automation 58 52 +11.0% +10.4% Mail-Related Solutions 176 177 (0.3)% (1.1)% Parcel Locker Solutions 21 20 +7.4% +8.7% Other solutions divested in 2022 0 3 n/a n/a Group total 256 253 +1.3% +2.1% (a)Mail-Related Solutions and Parcel Locker Solutions now includes activities previously accounted for in Additional Operations. Intelligent Communication Automation In Q1 2023, sales from Intelligent Communication Automation reached 58 million, up 10.4% organically and up 11.0% on a reported basis compared to Q1 2022. Subscription-related revenue, which recorded a strong 20.7% organic growth, accounted for 80% of Intelligent Communication Automation total sales in Q1 2023, a significant increase compared to the 73% recorded in Q1 2022. At the end of Q1 2023, annual recurring revenue, which is a forward-looking indicator of future subscription-related revenue, reached 193 million, up from 187 million at the end of FY 2022. Of note, the strong contribution of the Mail-Related Solutions sales force driving a 100% increase in Software cross-sell bookings. The share of SaaS customers reached 80% at the end of Q1 2023 compared to 78% at the end of Q1 2022. As the transition to the SaaS model continues to progress, the weight of license sales has decreased further, recording an (8.5)% organic decline in Q1 2023. Software licence sales only represented 7% of Intelligent Communication Automation total sales in Q1 2023. Professional services (13% of sales) also went down, recording a (21.7)% organic decline. This acceleration of the decline is due to the change in business model, driving less services for onboarding cloud customers and to the customer mix evolution towards mid-sized companies. Pursuing the mission to unify business communications and financial automation into one single cloud-platform, Quadient product teams released the first version of the new Quadient Hub, an intuitive and user-friendly interface for all Quadient software solutions with centralized access in one location. Focus is on powering the platform with Artificial Intelligence and on driving decisions with analytics to offer insightful recommendations and data-driven improvements. Over 1,000 customers have already been onboarded on this new platform. Importantly, this modular hub is providing the Group with a powerful driver of cross-sell and up-sell. During the first quarter of 2023, Quadient further improved the features of its software offering. Firstly, Quadient released a new advanced AI-based cash application service to offer mid-market and enterprise customers a complete end-to-end accounts receivable (AR) automation solution. Secondly, Quadient's accounts payable (AP) solution was integrated with Sage 100, a leading business management enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution for small and medium-sized businesses. Q1 2023 also brought additional external recognitions for Quadient's SaaS solutions. Quadient was again named as a leader in the 2023 SPARK MatrixTM for Customer Communication Management solutions and has also joined for the first time the selective "Invoice to cash" Gartner Magic Quadrant in 2023, being one amongst only nine ranked companies out of twenty surveyed by Gartner in a very competitive market. Mail-Related Solutions Mail-Related Solutions sales reached 176 million in Q1 2023 slightly down (0.3)% on a reported basis and down (1.1)% on an organic basis. While the level of activity remains dynamic in North America, for both subscription-related revenue and hardware sales, the Main European countries are lagging. Overall, the solid trend seen in the last few quarters for hardware sales continued in Q1 2023 with a 3.7% organic increase. Quadient's strategy to renew its product offering supports this positive trend thanks to the increasing penetration of the new generation of innovative machines. The share of the upgraded installed base reached 22.0% at the end of Q1 2023, vs 19.9% at the end of FY 2022. Subscription-related revenues (70% of Mail-Related Solutions sales) recorded a limited (3.0)% decline in Q1 2023, a resilient performance driven by both the solid installed base and the contribution from multi-year largely indexed contracts. This focus on mobilizing the sales force to both nurture its installed base and to seize cross-sell and up-sell opportunities remained extremely dynamic in Q1 2023 as Mail-Related Solutions sales force drove a 100% increase in Software cross-sell bookings. Parcel Locker Solutions Parcel Locker Solutions sales increased by 7.4% on a reported basis, to 21 million in Q1 2023, an 8.7% organic increase compared to Q1 2022. License and hardware sales were slightly up 1.5% organically in Q1 2023, as new US locker installations start to normalise after the recent delays experienced in the residential and retail segments. Subscription-related revenues were up 11.2% organically, well oriented thanks to the strong contribution from the existing installed base and the deployment of existing contracts. Usage rate remains solid standing at 58% in Q1 2023. Subscription-related revenue stood at 65% of total revenue for Parcel Locker Solutions in Q1 2023. The development of the UK open network progresses and in Q1 2023, Quadient signed new partnerships with APCOA and Rontec. Those two parking and forecourts specialists represent up to 1,000 potential sites on which lockers could be installed as part of the deployment of the open network. Interest and request for information from retailer, carriers, and other e-commerce players for open networks of parcel lockers are high and Quadient is capitalising on its agnostic approach to grow in this field. In France, for example, a second carrier recently joined the open network, alongside Relais Colis. Quadient's global installed locker base reached c.18,500 units at the end of Q1 2023. Consolidated sales by geographies In million Q1 2023 Q1 2022 Change Organic change1 North America 145 135 +8.1% +5.9% Main European countries(a) 86 89 (2.8)% (3.8)% International(b) 24 29 (18.0)% +2.9% Group total 256 253 +1.3% +2.1% (a)Including Austria, Benelux, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. (b)International includes the activities of Intelligent Communication Automation, Mail-Related Solutions and Parcel Locker Solutions outside of North America and the Main European countries as well as, in Q1 2022, other solutions previously recorded under Additional Operation and divested in Q2 2022s. Sales in North America (57% of Group sales) were up 5.9% organically to 145 million and 8.1% on a reported basis. All three Solutions posted organic growth. Strong performance from Intelligent Communication Automation as well as solid hardware sales for Mail-Related Solutions, close to double digit growth and significatively outpacing the market, were the main contributors to the growth in the region. Penetration of Quadient's cloud-based solutions continues to be well supported by successful cross-selling from the Mail customer base. Quadient's Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable cloud solutions also performed well in the region, contributing to the overall solid performance for the quarter. Parcel Locker Solutions experienced a solid double-digit increase following last year's delays in the deployment of retail and residential projects. Main European countries (34% of Group sales) were down by 3.8% organically and 2.8% on a reported basis to 86 million Performance has been contrasted by Solution in the region. Mail-Related Solutions posted a lower year-over-year organic contribution while Intelligent Communication Automation benefited from the penetration of the recently launched Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable cloud solutions. However, the decline in license sales due to the change in business model continues to impact the overall growth for this Solution. Parcel Locker Solutions recorded growth in the region, supported by the on-going deployment of existing contracts. The International segment (9% of Group sales) delivered a 2.9% organic growth, to 24 million, continuing the positive trend seen throughout 2022 with Intelligent Communication Automation as the prime contributor to the growth while Mail-Related Solutions showed strong resilience in the quarter. The 18.0% reported decline recorded by the International segment is due to currency impact and to the scope effect related to the divestment of the Graphic activities in the Nordics and the Shipping business in France, both sold in June 2022. OUTLOOK FY 2023 guidance and 2021-2023 financial outlook confirmed The 2.1% organic growth recorded in Q1 2023 as well as the robust business trends seen across all three Solutions enable the Group to be confident in its ability to deliver its FY 2023 guidance as well as its three years 2021-23 CAGR targets. The recurring nature of the business model offers a good visibility of future revenues while demand for automation services remains very solid, fuelling growth. Further contribution from the phased pricing indexation is also expected to contribute to the full-year performance. FY 2023 guidance as well as the mid-term financial outlook are therefore confirmed. Revenue guidance Sales outlook is confirmed at minimum 3% organic sales CAGR over 2021-23 FY 2023 organic sales growth is expected at c.3%. Current EBIT3 guidance Current EBIT 3 outlook is confirmed at minimum mid-single digit organic 4 current EBIT 3 CAGR over 2021-23 outlook is confirmed at minimum mid-single digit organic current EBIT CAGR over 2021-23 FY 2023 organic growth5 in current EBIT3 is expected at c.10%. BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS Quadient introduces iX-1 postage meter in U.S. for small business and home offices On 1 February 2023, Quadient announced the general availability in the U.S. of the Quadient iX-1 postage meter, a compact yet powerful mailing system that combines mail and parcel processing into one user-friendly solution designed for the small office environment. New Drop Box facilitates returns with Parcel Pending by Quadient lockers in UK; Evri to be the first carrier to use the technology On 7 February 2023, Quadient introduced an additional feature for its Parcel Pending by Quadient smart lockers that enables shoppers to easily drop off parcels, with the added ability to print shipping labels if needed. Quadient celebrates milestone of 10,000 smart locker units Installed in North America and 18,000 worldwide On 28 February 2023, Quadient announced it has reached a significant milestone with more than 10,000 parcel locker units in operation in the United States and Canada and a total of 18,000 units globally. Ferguson selects Quadient's smart lockers for convenient, secure order pickup On 13 March 2023, Quadient announced Ferguson, a leading distributor providing expertise, solutions, and products from infrastructure, plumbing and appliances to HVAC1, fire, fabrication and more, has deployed Parcel Pending by Quadient smart lockers, including the new line of oversized lockers, in direct response to customer demand for a streamlined in-store pickup experience during and outside of regular store hours. Ferguson operates over 1,500 locations in the United States, serving all fifty states, many with same-day and next-day product availability. Quadient accelerates growth of cloud-based solutions in the public sector with more than twenty new contracts signed in 2022 On 15 March 2023, Quadient announced growth momentum for its Intelligent Communication Automation solutions among public sector organizations across major geographies. In the 2022 fiscal year that closed 31 January 2023, more than twenty new public sector organizations selected Quadient's cloud-based solutions to manage critical multichannel communications, accounting for nearly 10% of new contracts' value and almost a tenfold increase over 2021. Already more than 20,000 customers signed up for Switch, Quadient's secure online mail platform for small businesses On 29 March 2023, Quadient announced the growth of its digital mail business, supported by Switch, a cloud-based platform for sending business mail online, replacing traditional document printing and mailing processes, as well as saving valuable time. Quadient announces its eligibility for PEA-PME scheme On 31 March 2023, Quadient announced its eligibility for the PEA-PME scheme, as it complies with the criteria for inclusion set by Article L.221-32-2 of the French Monetary and Financial Code. Consequently, investment in Quadient shares can be made through PEA-PME accounts. New international carrier joins Quadient's open locker network in France On 6 April 2023, Quadient announced that it has secured a new contract with an international carrier for the use of its open network of smart parcel lockers in France alongside Relais Colis, Quadient's long-time partner in this business. Quadient expands UK open locker network with two new host partners giving access to more than 1,000 sites On 12 April 2023, Quadient announced that it will expand its Parcel Pending by Quadient Open Locker Network in the UK, with two new host partners representing more than 1,000 potential sites for lockers: APCOA: UK and Ireland's leading parking mobility technology & solutions provider working across transportation, health & education, retail, and local government sectors. Rontec: One of the leading players in the UK forecourt industry, operating 264 roadside retail forecourts under the Esso, BP, and Shell brands. Quadient achieves leader position in 2023 SPARK Matrix for customer communications management On 17 April 2023, Quadient announced that it has been named by Quadrant Knowledge Solutions as a 2023 technology leader in the SPARK Matrix: Customer Communication Management, 2023. Quadient announces AI-based cash application module to accelerate invoice-to-cash processes On 26 April 2023, Quadient announced the global availability of a new Advanced Cash Application module for Quadient's Intelligent Communication Automation SaaS platform, to offer mid-market and enterprise customers a complete end-to-end Accounts Receivable (AR) automation solution. Quadient connects its accounts payable solution to Sage 100 to enhance and streamline invoice processing On 27 April 2023, Quadient announced that its accounts payable automation solution, Quadient Accounts Payable (AP) by Beanworks, is now connected to Sage 100, a leading business management enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution for small and medium-sized businesses. POST-CLOSING EVENTS Bunker Hill community college selects Quadient smart lockers to provide students with flexible, private access to food On 2 May 2023, Quadient announced that Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC), a public community college in Boston, Massachusetts serving a diverse student population of over 16,000, has selected Parcel Pending by Quadient refrigerated lockers to expand its successful DISH Food Pantry program that assists students struggling with food insecurity. Quadient recognized for the first time in 2023 Gartner Magic Quadrant for integrated invoice-to-cash applications On 9 May 2023, Quadient announced that for the first time, it has been recognized by Gartner in the Magic Quadrant for Integrated Invoice-to-Cash Applications for its offering, Quadient Accounts Receivable (AR) by YayPay. The evaluation was based on specific criteria that analyzed the company's overall completeness of vision and ability to execute. Gartner Magic Quadrant reports are a culmination of rigorous, fact-based research in specific markets, providing a wide-angle view of the relative positions of the providers in markets where growth is high and provider differentiation is distinct. The research enables organizations to get the most from market analysis in alignment with their unique business and technology needs. Quadient awarded Platinum rating by EcoVadis for second year, placing in the top 1% of companies On 11 May 2023, Quadient announced it has been awarded a Platinum rating by EcoVadis for the second year running. EcoVadis is a leading ratings organization for sustainability, and its Platinum rating is the highest distinction awarded to the top 1% of performing companies that EcoVadis rates in different industries. EcoVadis assesses more than 100,000 companies in over 175 countries across two hundred industries, evaluating twenty-one sustainability criteria in four core themes: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics and Sustainable Procurement. OneRail and Quadient partner to provide faster and frictionless delivery solutions On 23 May 2023, Quadient announced a partnership to provide smart lockers as part of an omnichannel solution for a fast and seamless delivery experience. Integrated with OneRail's Omnipoint platform, the Parcel Pending by Quadient smart locker system can be seamlessly incorporated into the existing order fulfillment process of retailers, enabling them to offer efficient and reliable delivery options to their customers and greater flexibility for delivery drivers to quickly pick up products, no matter the size, all while maintaining the visual integrity of the retail location. To know more about Quadient's newsflow, previous press releases are available on our website at the following address: https://invest.quadient.com/en-US/press-releases. CONFERENCE CALL & WEBCAST Quadient will host a conference call and webcast today at 6:00 pm Paris time (5:00 pm London time). To join the webcast, click on the following link: Webcast. To join the conference call, please use one of the following phone numbers: ? France: +33 (0) 1 70 37 71 66. ? United States: +1 786 697 3501. ? United Kingdom (standard international): +44 (0) 33 0551 0200. Password: Quadient A replay of the webcast will also be available on Quadient's Investor Relations website for 12 months. CALENDAR 16 June 2023 : Annual General Sharehold ers Meeting : 20 September 2023: Half-year 2023 results About Quadient Quadient is the driving force behind the world's most meaningful customer experiences. By focusing on three key solution areas, Intelligent Communication Automation, Parcel Locker Solutions and Mail-Related Solutions, Quadient helps simplify the connection between people and what matters. Quadient supports hundreds of thousands of customers worldwide in their quest to create relevant, personalized connections and achieve customer experience excellence. Quadient is listed in compartment B of Euronext Paris (QDT) and is part of the CAC Mid 60 and EnterNext Tech 40 indices. Quadient shares are eligible for PEA-PME investing. For more information about Quadient, visit https://invest.quadient.com/ Contacts Catherine Hubert-Dorel, Quadient +33 (0)1 45 36 61 39 c.hubert-dorel@quadient.com financial-communication@quadient.com Caroline Baude, Quadient +33 (0)1 45 36 31 82 c.baude@quadient.com OPRG Financial Isabelle Laurent / Fabrice Baron +33 (0)1 53 32 61 51 /+33 (0)1 53 32 61 27 isabelle.laurent@oprgfinancial.fr fabrice.baron@oprgfinancial.fr 1 Q1 2023 sales are compared to Q1 2022 sales, from which is deducted revenue from Graphics activities in the Nordics and Shipping business in France for a consolidated amount of -3 million, and are restated for a 1 million positive currency impact over the period. 2 Software as a Service 3 Current operating income before acquisition-related expenses. 4 Based on 2020 current operating income before acquisition-related expenses excluding Parcel Pending's earn-out reversal, i.e. 145 million, with a scope effect resulting in a 140 million pro forma. The organic growth calculation excludes scope, forex and IFRIC impacts. 5 Organic change excludes currency, scope and IFRIC impacts. Regulatory News: SpineGuard (FR0011464452 ALSGD), an innovative company that deploys its DSG (Dynamic Surgical Guidance) sensing technology to secure and streamline the placement of bone implants announced today that they implemented an innovative equity line financing of a maximum of 7.5M with Nice Green, an investment firm partnering with the Company since 2017. In a volatile macroeconomic context, this innovative financing (the "Horizon Program") aims at securing the Company's long-term financing and to provide it additional resources to implement its strategy. It is made possible by the Company's strong performance in 2022 and the first quarter of 2023. The company intends to use the Horizon Program in a targeted and selective manner to: accelerate the commercial, marketing and logistics reorganization of its subsidiary in the United States, to support the growth in both the world's and SpineGuard's largest market; redeem the Company's venture debt to strengthen its balance sheet while also significantly reducing its financial expenses; and build a financing envelope that could be mobilized for future growth and innovation opportunities and thus creating shareholder's value. The Horizon Program was authorized by the Board of Directors according to the delegation received from the 11th and 12th resolutions granted at the Extraordinary Shareholders Meeting held on June 30, 2022, to proceed with the gradual issuance, in tranches, of bonds convertible into shares (The "Horizon Bonds"), which will entitle the holder, upon exercise, to the issuance and/or allotment of new and/or existing shares, for a total nominal value of up to 7,500,000. SpineGuard estimates that, given the existing cash position as of April 30, 2023, of 5.3M, its business plan including the recently announced agreements with its partner in China, the debt reduction project and the total amount of this equity line that its cash runway stands at least until the end of 2026. Pierre Jerome, Chairman, CEO and Co-founder of SpineGuard, says: This financing provides us with the visibility and leeway necessary to amplify our commercial deployment, particularly in the United States, make the most of the tremendous clinical innovation potential of our DSG technology and lead us towards profitability." Additional information regarding the Horizon Program: innovative aspects SpineGuard and Nice Green share the common objectives of implementing a financing tool that clearly aligns the interests of the Company, the investment company and all the shareholders. Therefore, the Horizon Program includes binding clauses regarding: a- the limitation of stock trades resulting from the exercise of the Horizon Program to 15% of the daily net amounts exchanged; b- the existence of a minimum trading price; c- the monthly communication on the company's website of a statement of the transaction carried out by Nice Green S.A. in order to verify the respect of these binding clauses; d- the drawings being at the initiative of the Company subject to certain conditions relating to the stock market price. The subscription of the Horizon Bonds is reserved to Nice Green SA, a Swiss company, specializing in the structuring and the financing of small and medium-sized listed companies. The Horizon Bonds, with a nominal value of 10,000 euros, have a maturity of 36 months and will not give rise to interest payments. Based on the share price as at May 30, 2023, i.e. 0.6440 and should the 750 Horizon Bonds be drawn and converted, the total dilution induced would be 23%. The first tranche of 2,500,000 will be drawn in June 2023. This financing does not require a prospectus subject to the approval of the French "Autorite des marches financiers". The characteristics and dilutive impact of the transaction are detailed in the appendix to this press release. The Company draws the public's attention that the conversion or exercise of the securities issued under this program may take place at the request of the holder in accordance with the provisions of the contract for the issue and subscription of the Horizon Bonds. The shares resulting from such exercises and conversions will freely trade on the Euronext Growth market (Paris), in compliance with applicable legal and regulatory provisions. The Company will post on its website a monthly table providing for the details of the conversions of the Horizon Program (section "Investors", "Documentation" and "Regulated Information" tab). The detailed specifications of the Horizon Program are presented in the appendix to this press release. Information regarding the debt restructuring improvement The Company submitted to the Commercial Court of Creteil a project to improve its safeguard plan ("plan de sauvegarde") validated in 2021. The proposed plan would improve creditors' repayment terms by two years, allows to repay all of its bondholder's debt, saves over 300K in interest (rate close to 10%) and provides improved leeway for non-dilutive financing. On the date of publication of this news release, the effective implementation of this debt restructuring operation remains subject to the approval of the Commercial Court of Creteil in France. Information regarding the DSG Dental project Despite significant progress and a functional prototype under development, Adin Dental Implant Systems, parent company of ConfiDent ABC, has unilaterally decided to halt their DSG dental application project for financial reasons. SpineGuard has taken note of this decision, remains convinced of the potential of this very advanced and extremely promising project and is studying different options to continue it. The Company will communicate further details to its shareholders during the webinar on June 1. Information regarding the CFO transition Effective, June 1st, Anne-Charlotte Millard replaces Manuel Lanfossi as Chief Financial Officer of SpineGuard. Anne-Charlotte knows the Company extensively as she held the position of Deputy Finance Director from 2009 until 2019. Since 2019, Anne-Charlotte was CFO at Biomodex a French private medtech company. After a transition period, Manuel will leave the Company in November to pursue new endeavors. Manuel Lanfossi, Chief Financial Officer of SpineGuard, says: "I am very pleased to have the opportunity to end my tenure at SpineGuard with the implementation of a financing that clearly aligns both the shareholders and the company's interest while securing SpineGuard's long term financial resources. Since 2017, the collaboration with Nice Green has been exemplary." Anne-Charlotte Millard, new Chief Financial Officer of SpineGuard, adds: "This is a tremendous time to join SpineGuard, I look forward to leading our finance and administration organization while partnering with Pierre, Stephane and the entire team as we look to grow the brand, drive innovation and maximize value for shareholders." Pierre Jerome, Chairman, CEO and Co-founder of SpineGuard, concludes: On behalf of SpineGuard's Board of Directors, I would like to warmly thank Manuel for his excellent work over the past twelve years and his impeccable handover to Anne Charlotte whom I am delighted to welcome back to the team following a successful CFO experience at one of our industry peers." About SpineGuard Founded in 2009 in France and the USA by Pierre Jerome and Stephane Bette, SpineGuard is an innovative company deploying its proprietary radiation-free real time sensing technology DSG (Dynamic Surgical Guidance) to secure and streamline the placement of implants in the skeleton. SpineGuard designs, develops and markets medical devices that have been used in over 95,000 surgical procedures worldwide. Twenty-four studies published in peer-reviewed scientific journals have demonstrated the multiple benefits DSG offers to patients, surgeons, surgical staff and hospitals. Building on these strong fundamentals and several strategic partnerships, SpineGuard has expanded the scope of its DSG technology in innovative applications such as the smart pedicle screw, the DSG Connect visualization and registration interface, dental implantology and surgical robotics. DSG was co-invented by Maurice Bourlion, Ph.D., Ciaran Bolger, M.D., Ph.D., and Alain Vanquaethem, Biomedical Engineer. SpineGuard has engaged in multiple ESG initiatives. For further information, visit www.spineguard.com About Nice Green Nice Green is a leading privately held Swiss funding firm, active in the European market providing smart funding solutions to listed Micro-, Small- and Mid-Cap companies supporting their growth as partners. Find out more at nicengreen.ch. Disclaimer The SpineGuard securities may not be offered or sold in the United States as they have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act or any United States state securities laws, and SpineGuard does not intend to make a public offer of its securities in the United States. This is an announcement and not a prospectus, and the information contained herein does and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or exemption from registration. APPENDIX HORIZON PROGRAM Legal Framework The Extraordinary Shareholders Meeting held on June 30, 2022 has, in accordance with Articles L. 225-129 et seq., L. 225-138, L. 228-91 et seq., and L. 22-10-49 et seq. of the French Commercial Code and pursuant to its 11th and 12th resolutions, delegated to the Board of Directors its competence, for a period of eighteen (18) and twenty-six (26) months respectively, the authority to issue financial securities and/or transferable securities giving immediate or future access to a proportion of the capital, with cancellation of shareholders' preferential subscription rights ("droit preferentiel de souscription") to the benefit of categories of persons within a nominal maximum limit of capital increases set at 750,000 euros. By virtue of this delegation, the Board of Directors authorized a equity line facility of 7,500,000 in the form of convertible bonds to be subscribed exclusively by Nice Green, an independent Swiss company specialized in corporate financing. Key Features of the HORIZON Program the Horizon Bonds will be issued at the Company's request for a maximum amount of seven million five hundred thousand euros (7,500,000) in 5 tranches of which the first tranche is two hundred and fifty (250) Horizon Bonds, and each of the following four tranches will consist in one hundred and twenty-five (125) Horizon Bonds; the Horizon Program has a duration of 36 months starting at the signing date of the program; The Company may only draw a new tranche when (i) since the subscription of the previous tranche, 15% of the total value of the cumulative transactions carried out on Euronext Growth represents at least 80% of the nominal amount of the previous tranche. By way of exception, the second Tranche may be drawn when i) the sale of Shares by the Investor add up to 80% of the amount of the first Tranche; or (ii) four (4) months after the conversion of the first Tranche; The Horizon Bonds will be issued only if and when certain contractual obligations are met, Nice Green being entitled to waive them. One Horizon Bond has a value of ten thousand (10,000) euros, The Horizon Bonds will not accrue interest and will have a maximum maturity of eighteen (18) months from their issue date ("Maturity Date"); The outstanding Horizon Bonds may be fully or partially redeemed in advance at any time at the Company's request and at its sole discretion at the price of 103% of their nominal value. The Agreement may also be terminated ahead of schedule and the outstanding Horizon Bonds redeemed under the same conditions by either the Company at its sole discretion and with no liability incurred, or by Nice Green following an Event of Default as provided for in the Agreement (list in Note 1) The Horizon Bonds may be converted at Nice Green's request through to the Maturity Date; The conversion of the Horizon Bonds is dependent on Nice Green having sold 80% of the shares resulting from the previous conversion of the Horizon Bonds. In addition, Nice Green will not be able to convert a number of Horizon Bonds representing a nominal amount higher than the total amount of the Company's shares sold by Nice Green since the previous conversion; The number of shares to be issued by the Company to Nice Green upon conversion of one or more Horizon Bonds is calculated as follows: N Vn /P Where: "N" is equal to the number of Company shares to be issued to Nice Green per the conversion of a Horizon Bond; "VN": is the nominal value of one Horizon Bond, i.e. ten thousand (10,000) euros each independently from their subscription value; "P" is equal to the Conversion Price equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Investor VWAP but shall not be less than (i) 50% of the weighted average of the last twenty (20) trading sessions preceding the day setting the issue price and (ii) 99% of the VWAP calculated over the current Reference Period (the "Conversion Price"). In the event that, during a trading session, the 5 days VWAP including the current session would be equal to 50% of the weighted average prices of the last twenty (20) trading sessions preceding the day setting the issue price, the Investor has an "acceleration option" allowing him to freely convert a number of Horizon Bonds equal to the number of shares sold on the market since the last conversion or, in the case of the first Tranche, since its Subscription Date. The Conversion Price is determined in accordance with Euronext Growth's tick size rules and rounded down to the nearest decimal place. In no circumstances, the Conversion Price can be lower than the nominal value of the Issuer's Share (currently 0.05). In the event that the Conversion Price is equal to or lower than the par value of the Issuer's Share, the Investor can only convert any of the Issuer's outstanding OCAs at a price equal to the nominal value until the Conversion Price becomes higher again than the par value of the Issuer's Share, Should the issuance of New Shares results in fractions, the Issuer shall round down this fraction to the nearest whole-number. The Horizon Bonds will constitute registered securities by name ("valeurs mobilieres nominatives") in the stock registers of the Company and will not apply for admission to trading on any financial market and therefore will not be listed. The newly issued shares upon conversion of the Horizon bonds will provide an immediate right to dividends. They bear the same rights as those attached to the Company's existing ordinary shares and will be admitted to the Euronext Growth market on the same listing line as the existing shares (ISIN code: FR0011464452). The Company will maintain on its website a tracking table of the number of outstanding Horizon Bonds and shares issued upon conversion of Horizon Bonds. Nice Green may not sell a number of shares representing more than 15% of the daily volume of transactions carried out on Euronext Growth and the Company may in any event set a minimum sale price. Nice Green will send the Company, on a monthly basis, a summary of the transaction demonstrating the compliance with the contractual agreements with regard to the traded volume and price of the shares and the Company will publish this summary on its website. The Company has the right, at its sole discretion, at any time, upon payment of compensation of five thousand (5,000) euros and the redemption in cash of all outstanding HORIZON BONDS subscribed by Nice Green and not converted at 103% of their nominal value (i.e. 10,300 each), to terminate the Contract without liability incurred whatsoever. Fees and Commissions The Company will pay Nice Green one or two commissions depending on the conversions made: 1- a structuring fee of an amount equal to 7% of the maximum nominal amount of the financing, i.e. a total commission of 525,000 euros. This commission will be paid through the issuance of Horizon Bonds and; 2- in case of a conversion, a potential execution fee equal to 5% of the nominal value of the Horizon bonds actually converted by Nice Green. Main risks associated to the Company The key risks associated with the Company were presented in the 2022 Annual Financial Report. The main risks associated with the issuance of Horizon bonds in connection with the transaction are as follows: a conversion of Horizon bonds resulting in the issuance of new shares would dilute the held by an existing shareholder before such conversion; in the event of conversion of Horizon bonds by issuance of new shares, the volatility and liquidity of SpineGuard shares could fluctuate significantly; in the event of conversion of Horizon Bonds by issuance of new shares, the sale of SpineGuard shares by holders of Horizon Bonds could have an adverse impact on the price of SpineGuard shares; should the SpineGuard stock price drop to an amount equal to or lower than the par-value of the share (i.e. 0,05 EUR), the Company may have to engage in one or more reduction(s) of the said par-value in order to maintain the possibility to convert the outstanding Horizon Bonds; in the event of non-completion of all the tranches, (reminding that the total potential amount is not guaranteed), the Company's cash runway announced would be reduced in proportion. DILUTION THEORETICAL EFFECT FOR A NON-PARTICIPATING SHAREHOLDER As an indication, the effect of the full issue of the Horizon Bonds on the equity per share would be as follows. The bases being i) the equity as reporting in the audited financial statements as at 31 December 2022 et ii) of the issued shares as of 30 April 2023 i.e. 39,080,723 Equity per share (in euros) Base non diluted Base diluted (*) Number of shares Equity as of 31.12.2022 Before the issue of the Horizon bonds resulting from this transaction 0.13 0.11 39,080,723 5,141,210 After the issue of 750 Horizon bonds resulting from this transaction 0.10 0.09 50,726,685 The diluted base includes the exercise of all the equity instruments existing as of today and that might result in the issuance of an indicative maximum total number of new shares of 5,997,434. (*) The calculation is based on 99% of the stock price as of 30 May 2023 closing, hence a conversion price of the Horizon Bonds of 0,6440 . This theoretical dilution does not prejudge either the final number of shares to be issued or their issue price, which will be set according to the stock market price, as described above. Incidence of the issue on a 1% stake of a shareholder: As an indication and in the event of the exercise of 100% of the Horizon Bonds, the impact on the equity of a shareholder holding 1% of the Company's share capital prior to the increase of capital (calculations made on the basis of the number of shares making up the Company's share capital on June 1, 2021) and not participating in the transaction would be as follows: Equity per share (%) Base non diluted Base diluted (*) Number of shares Equity Before the issue of new shares from the exercise of the Horizon Bonds 1.00% 0.87% 39,080,723 1,954,036 After issuing 750 Horizon Bonds representing the exercise of 100% of the Horizon Bonds 0.77% 0.69% 50,726,685 2,536,334 The diluted base includes the exercise of all the equity instruments existing as of today and that might result in the issuance of an indicative maximum total number of new shares of 5,997,434. (*) The calculation is based on 99% of the stock price as of 30 May 2023 closing, hence a conversion price of the Horizon Bonds of 0,6440 . This theoretical dilution does not prejudge either the final number of shares to be issued or their issue price, which will be set according to the stock market price, as described above. Note 1: Event of Default "Event of Default" refers to the occurrence of any of the following events that were not resolved within thirty (30) Working Days of the earlier of the following dates: (i) The date when Nice Green SA receives the Event of Default Notification issued by the Company and (i) the date when the Company receives the Notification from Nice Green indicating the infringement and asking for resolution: (i) The Company does not pay an amount due to Nice Green SA under the Agreement upon its due date. (ii) Any breach of any its commitments by the Company; not waived in writing by Nice Green and resulting in actual damages in excess of one hundred thousand (100,000) euros or higher, as duly established by an independent third party ("expert judiciaire" listed at the Court of Appeals (Cour d'Appel) and appointed by the President of the competent Court issuing an interim order and called on by Nice Green SA within a maximum of eight (8) Working Days following the end of the period of thirty (30) Working Days granted to the Company to resolve an Event of Default or, when such a timeframe is not applicable, from the first of the Notification dates referred to in the definition of the "Event of Default". (iii) Within the agreed timeframe to cure, the absence of a meeting, vote or approval by an extraordinary shareholders meeting of a stock split or a capital reduction with a view to reducing the Share's par value will be considered as an "Event of Default" even if it has been convened by the Company; (iv) The delisting of the shares from Euronext Growth at the Company's request unless this delisting is carried out in connection with a transfer of the listing of the Company's shares to another market managed by Euronext Paris; (v) Any refusal to certify the financial statements by the Company's statutory auditors that is not resolved within thirty (30) Working Days of the date by which the Company's accounts shall be certified in compliance with the applicable regulations; (vi) In the event that the shareholders meeting does not resolve the reduction of the par-value of the shares as agreed in the Contract. (vii) A material unfavorable event or a change of control has occurred; (viii) The Issuer voluntarily suspends or interrupts its activities, sells or transfers its main assets needed for its activity unless these assets are sold (i) subject to fair compensation or (il) under market conditions; (ix) In the event that the Company does not satisfy the "Obligation d'Ajustement" required by the Agreement; (x) In the event that the Company files for a bankruptcy procedure; (xi) A final court decision requiring the payment of a total amount exceeding two million (2,000,000) euros is issued by a competent court against the Company, and the Company i) does not pay said sum or ii) does not ensure its payment in accordance with its terms or iii) does not file a request to suspend the decision within thirty (30) calendar days (or any longer period during which the suspension of the enforcement could validly be introduced by the Company) following the date of notification to the Company or does not appeal or ensure that the enforcement of the Court Decision is suspended during the appeal. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005742/en/ Contacts: SpineGuard Pierre Jerome CEO Chairman Tel: +33 1 45 18 45 19 p.jerome@spineguard.com SpineGuard Manuel Lanfossi CFO Tel: +33 1 45 18 45 19 m.lanfossi@spineguard.com NewCap Investor Relations Financial Communication Mathilde Bohin Aurelie Manavarere Tel: +33 1 44 71 94 94 spineguard@newcap.eu Procedures for obtaining preparatory documents for the General Meeting Regulatory News: GenSight Biologics (Euronext: SIGHT, ISIN: FR0013183985, PEA-PME eligible), a biopharma company focused on developing and commercializing innovative gene therapies for retinal neurodegenerative diseases and central nervous system disorders, announced that it will hold its Annual General Meeting on June 21, 2023, at 9:00 am CEST at the Company's headquarters, 74 rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75012 Paris, France. The General Meeting will also be webcast live for shareholders on the Company's website (www.gensight-biologics.com). The notice containing the agenda and draft resolutions was published in the French BALO on May 17, 2023. The notice confirming the time and place of the meeting will be published in the French BALO and in a legal gazette on June 5, 2023. The preparatory documents for the General Meeting listed in Article R. 22-10-23 of the French Commercial Code are posted on the Company's website (www.gensight-biologics.com) in the Investors, Documentation section. The preparatory documents for the General Meeting will also be made available to shareholders as of the convening of the meeting. It is specified that the full text of the documents intended to be presented to the Meeting, in accordance in particular with Articles L. 225-115 and R. 225-83 of the Commercial Code, are made available at the Company's headquarters. From the date of the convocation and until the fifth day inclusive before the meeting, any shareholder may ask the Company to send him the documents and information mentioned in Articles R. 225-81 and R. 225-83 of the Commercial Code, preferably by email to the following address: ir@gensight-biologics.com. Bearer shareholders must justify this status by sending an account registration certificate. About GenSight Biologics GenSight Biologics S.A. is a clinical-stage biopharma company focused on developing and commercializing innovative gene therapies for retinal neurodegenerative diseases and central nervous system disorders. GenSight Biologics' pipeline leverages two core technology platforms, the Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence (MTS) and optogenetics, to help preserve or restore vision in patients suffering from blinding retinal diseases. GenSight Biologics' lead product candidate, LUMEVOQ (GS010; lenadogene nolparvovec), has been submitted for marketing approval in Europe for the treatment of Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON), a rare mitochondrial disease affecting primarily teens and young adults that leads to irreversible blindness. Using its gene therapy-based approach, GenSight Biologics' product candidates are designed to be administered in a single treatment to each eye by intravitreal injection to offer patients a sustainable functional visual recovery. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005794/en/ Contacts: GenSight Biologics Corporate Communications Director Clothilde Caillet ccaillet@gensight-biologics.com LifeSci Advisors Investor Relations Guillaume van Renterghem gvanrenterghem@lifesciadvisors.com +41 (0)76 735 01 31 TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Voyager Metals Inc. ("Voyager") (TSXV:VONE) and Cerrado Gold Inc. ("Cerrado") (TSXV:CERT) (OTCQX:CRDOF) are pleased to announce the successful completion of the previously announced statutory plan of arrangement (the "Arrangement") under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) pursuant to which Cerrado acquired all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Voyager (the "Voyager Shares") that it did not already own. The Arrangement was carried out pursuant to the terms of the arrangement agreement between Voyager and Cerrado dated March 7, 2023 (the "Arrangement Agreement") and became effective today, resulting in Voyager becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cerrado. The Arrangement had received the requisite approval of Voyager shareholders and optionholders at a special meeting held on May 24, 2023. The Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Commercial List) issued a final order approving the Arrangement on May 26, 2023. Pursuant to the Arrangement, each former shareholder of Voyager, other than Cerrado, is entitled to receive 1/6 of one (1) Cerrado share for each outstanding Voyager share (the "Consideration"). Further in connection with the Arrangement, holders of the Voyager options received options of Cerrado adjusted in accordance with the Exchange Ratio and subject to the terms of the Arrangement Agreement (the "Cerrado Replacement Options"), resulting in the grant of 1,266,649 Cerrado Replacement Options. The Cerrado Replacement Options are not exercisable by the holders thereof until shareholder and relevant TSX Venture Exchange approvals have been obtained in respect of such options and an amended Cerrado omnibus plan with higher limits is in place to accommodate the exercise of such options. Such approval is being sought at the annual and special meeting of Cerrado shareholders expected to be held on July 19, 2023. In addition, all outstanding common share purchase warrants of Voyager ("Voyager Warrants") have been adjusted, in accordance with their terms, and following the Arrangement, are exercisable for up to 1,779,755 Cerrado shares based on the Exchange Ratio. In order to receive the Consideration in exchange for their Voyager shares, registered Voyager shareholders are reminded that they must complete, execute and submit the letter of transmittal (a copy of which was included in the meeting materials previously mailed to Voyager shareholders) to TSX Trust Company, in its capacity as depositary under the Arrangement, together with their certificate(s) or DRS advice(s) representing their Voyager shares, in accordance with the tender procedures described in the Circular (as defined below) and the letter of transmittal. Registered shareholders are encouraged to tender their Voyager shares as soon as possible in exchange for the Consideration. For any questions about completing the letter of transmittal in connection with the Arrangement, please contact TSX Trust Company at 416-342-1091 or by email at tsxtis@tmx.com. Beneficial shareholders should contact their intermediary and arrange for the intermediary to complete the necessary steps to ensure they receive the Consideration for their Voyager shares as soon as possible following the completion of the Arrangement. Following completion of the Arrangement, the Voyager Shares are expected to be de-listed from the TSX Venture Exchange as soon as reasonably practicable, and in any event on or about June 5, 2023. In connection therewith, Voyager intends to submit an application to the applicable securities regulators to cease to be a reporting issuer and to terminate its public reporting obligations. Further details regarding the Arrangement are set out in Voyager's information circular dated April 19, 2023, which is available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Voyager's issuer profile. Advisors Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. acted as financial advisor and Bennett Jones LLP acted as legal advisor to Voyager in connection with the Arrangement. WeirFoulds LLP acted as legal advisor to Cerrado in connection with the Arrangement. About Voyager Metals Inc. Voyager Metals Inc. is a mineral exploration company headquartered in Toronto, Canada.The Company is focused on advancing its Mont Sorcier, Vanadium-rich, Magnetite Iron Ore Project, located just outside of Chibougamau, Quebec. About Cerrado Gold Inc. Cerrado Gold is a Toronto-based gold production, development, and exploration company focused on gold projects in South America. The Company is the 100% owner of both the producing Minera Don Nicolas mine in Santa Cruz province, Argentina, and the highly prospective Monte Do Carmo development project, located in Tocantins State, Brazil. At Minera Don Nicolas, Cerrado is maximizing asset value through continued operational optimization and further production growth. An extensive campaign of exploration is ongoing to further unlock potential resources in our highly prospective land package in the heart of the Deseado Masiff. At Monte Do Carmo, Cerrado is rapidly advancing the Serra Alta deposit through Feasibility and into production. Serra Alta is expected to be a high-margin and high-return project with significant exploration potential on an extensive and highly prospective 82,542-hectare land package. For more information about Voyager, please visit the website at: www.voyagermetals.com. For more information about Cerrado, please visit the website at: www.cerradogold.com. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VOYAGER METALS INC. Cliff Hale-Sanders, President and CEO Tel: +1-416-819-8558 Nicholas Campbell, CFA Director, Corporate Development Tel: +1-905-630-0148 csanders@voyagermetals.com ncampbell@voyagermetals.com ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CERRADO GOLD INC. Mark Brennan, CEO and Chairman Tel: +1-647-796-0023 Mike McAllister Vice President, Investor Relations Tel: +1-647-805-5662 mbrennan@cerradogold.com mmcallister@cerradogold.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains certain forward-looking information and statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words "expect', 'anticipate', 'continue', 'estimate', 'guidance', 'objective', 'ongoing', 'may', 'will' and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information or statements. In particular, but without limiting the foregoing, this news release contains forward-looking statements concerning the issuance of Cerrado Replacement Options and the requirement to receive Cerrado shareholder approval for the exercise thereof; the de-listing of Voyager shares from TSX Venture Exchange; and the intention to obtain an order to cease being a reporting issuer in the applicable jurisdictions and terminate its public reporting requirements. Voyager and Cerrado believe the material factors, expectations and assumptions reflected in the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable at this time, but no assurance can be given that these factors, expectations and assumptions will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve risks, including, without limitation, risks associated with the timing and ability of the Voyager to obtain all necessary regulatory and exchange approvals, as applicable, in order to de-list from the TSX Venture Exchange and cease being a reporting issuer; the timing and ability to obtain the requisite approval of Cerrado shareholders to allow for the exercise of the Cerrado Replacement Option; and the general regulatory environment in which Voyager and Cerrado operate. The forward-looking information and statements included in this news release are not guarantees of future performance and should not be unduly relied upon. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of the risk factors set out and other known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Voyager and Cerrado. In addition, forward looking statements or information are based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such statements and information but which may prove to be incorrect. Such information may prove to be incorrect and readers are cautioned that the information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Although Voyager and Cerrado believe that the expectations reflected in such forward looking statements or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward looking statements because Voyager and Cerrado can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. In addition to other factors and assumptions which may be identified herein, assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, certain other risks detailed from time to time in the Voyager's and Cerrado's public disclosure documents including, without limitation, those risks identified in this news release and Circular, copies of which are available on the Voyager's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com . The forward-looking information and statements contained in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release, and Voyager and Cerrado do not assume any obligation to publicly update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required pursuant to applicable laws. 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: Cerrado Gold Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758215/Voyager-Metals-and-Cerrado-Gold-Announce-Completion-of-Business-Combination-Transaction Particle, the fine-art platform led by ex-Christie's execs, previously made history selling out 10,000 digital pieces of Banksy's 'Love is in the Air' NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Particle , a digital fine-art platform and tokenizer of Banksy's 'Love is in the Air' painting , will give art collectors the chance to obtain digital pieces of the Xenomorph/Alien III sculpture from renowned artist, H.R Giger, the Academy Award winner behind the iconic Xenomorph design from Ridley Scott's Sci-fi horror film franchise, Alien. The genre-defining sculpture is being 'tokenized' into 500 separate parts which will go on sale on June 16th on the Particle website . This follows Particle's debut and previous tokenization of Banksy's "Love is in the Air" masterpiece which sold as 10,000 digital tokens called Particles and is now owned by over 2,600 collectors worldwide, including Beeple, Paris Hilton, and Kevin Rose. It has been exhibited at prominent art centers such as the ICA Miami and Praz-Delavallade Gallery in LA. Building on this momentum, Particle is dedicated to bringing forth masterpieces that foster accessibility through co-ownership. The sale of H.R Giger's "Necronom/Alien III, 2005" will take place on June 16th priced at $1,000 per piece, with Particle Collectors who already own Banksy's 'Love is in the Air' piece having a discounted price of $800, as well as enjoying exclusive early access to the sale. Co-owners will obtain subsequent voting rights on whether to sell the sculpture, should an offer be made on it. They will also be loaning the sculpture to the Particle Foundation, who will tour the work around the world. "We are thrilled to unveil the addition of H.R Giger's Necronom/Alien III to our fractionalised collection. Through the tokenized sale of this iconic 'Alien' masterpiece, we hope to bring Giger's artistic legacy to an even greater audience. We believe art, film and music transcend borders and human-created boundaries, and few are better than Giger's profound exploration of the depths of the human psyche through art to encapsulate this truth," said Harold Eytan, CEO of Particle. The sculpture will be showcased at NFC Lisbon's prestigious Pavilhao Carlos Lopes from June 7-8th. Additionally, an exclusive party will be held for art enthusiasts on June 7th from 10 pm to 12 am at the Carlos Pavilion with all attendees receiving a digital certificate from the event which grants them early access to the sale. Following the appearance in Lisbon, the sculpture will tour the highly anticipated Giger exhibition, Metamorphoses, opening in Prague's Hluboka Castle on June 11, followed by UnPaired Gallery in Zug for Art Basel and then Paris in 2024. This latest sale is a continuation of the platform's mission to democratize the ownership and enjoyment of art while providing an avenue to explore the power of the artwork itself. By turning carefully sourced fine art pieces into 'Particles' which are then traded on secondary markets, the company aims to increase the provenance of art while reaching a broader audience of potential collectors. "Giger's sculpture embodies the very essence of Particle's endeavor, igniting profound reflections on the human experience and serving as a catalyst for thought-provoking conversations. This sculpture challenges us to contemplate our own mortality and the intricate relationship between humanity and technology. Through co-ownership and our collective passion, Particle strives to bridge gaps, dismantle barriers, and ensure that art truly becomes a transformative force that belongs to all," said Loic Gouzer of Particle. About Particle: Particle was founded in 2020 by a team of leading figures in the art, technology and blockchain worlds. The co-founders of Particle include former Chairman of Christie's Post War and Contemporary Art Loic Gouzer and founding CTO of Uber Oscar Salazar. Particle champions a more inclusive art world centered around co-ownership. Their mission focuses on democratizing the entire fine art experience, putting a focus on the art, education, access and ownership. Particle started with the tokenization of Banksy's Love is in the Air at auction in 2022 for $12.9 million. The work was digitally fractionalized into 10,000 unique tokens, known as Particles representing ownership in the physical painting.Particle is now a community of thousands, building and collecting one of the world's greatest fine art collections and ecosystems. Via the Particle Foundation, the works of art in the Collection are stewarded and exhibited internationally alongside artists the Foundation chooses to highlight to its member collectors, and the world. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089441/Giger_With_sculpture.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089442/Giger_Model.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/the-iconic-xenomorph-sculpture-that-inspired-ridley-scotts-alien-film-series-to-be-sold-as-500-digital-pieces-on-june-16th-301838707.html VANCOUVER, BC, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wondershare, a leading global technology company, is thrilled to announce its inaugural participation as an event sponsor at the highly anticipated Dublin Tech Summit, taking place from May 31 to June 1, 2023. During the event, the company will showcase its most popular products, including Filmora, PDFelement, EdrawMax, EdrawMind, and Virbro , which are all integrated with innovative AI technology. Wondershare aims to introduce these innovative solutions to European clients, demonstrating their capacity to accelerate growth for enterprises, creators and SMBs alike. The Dublin Tech Summit, hosted at the renowned Venue RDS in Dublin, Ireland, provides a platform for Wondershare to engage with technology enthusiasts, industry professionals, and thought leaders. Featuring "Get Work Done FAST and Unleash FURIOUS Creativity", Wondershare's exhibitor booth C1 is going to captivate visitors with a suite of intelligent tools powered by AI. It is a great opportunity for those who want to get more work done in less time for greater efficiency. One of the exciting highlights is the overseas release of Virbo, an AI video editor which allows users to generate realistic 3D digital humans with just a click. Regarding Wondershare's participation, the company's CEO Tobee Wu expresses their enthusiasm for the event and their commitment to delivering exceptional products that cater to the evolving needs of their users. "We put so much effort in advancing our products from mere functionality to enhanced experiences. The incorporation of AI-powered feature is a noticeable indication of our game-changing strategy and dedication to help individual and business users boost their work efficiency," Tobee Wu states. "As we expand our presence in the European market, we are excited to offer our products in multiple languages for users from different regions. We see enormous potential in the European market. Our network of customer service and tutorial content will efficiently onboard beginner users." In addition to showcasing the revolutionary products, Wondershare is delighted to offer exciting interactive activities and valuable prizes to attendees, including the Experience Card, Lucky Draw to win the Annual Product Free Subscription and a set of LEGO prize. About Wondershare Wondershare is globally recognized as a software company that is committed to delivering innovative solutions for personal and professional use. As a leader in creativity and productivity products, Wondershare has received prestigious awards from organizations such as The Shorty Awards, G2, and GetApp. At Wondershare, the mission is to empower individuals to pursue their passions and build a more creative world. With over 100 million users across 150 countries, users can access a wide range of software solutions for video editing (Filmora), PDF editing (PDFelement), Mind Mapping (Edraw), data recovery, diagram and graphics, and more. Together, Wondershare strives to provide high-quality, user-friendly software that enables individuals and businesses to bring their creative ideas to life. Iris Liu irisl@wondershare.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088998/Wondershare_Dublin_Tech_Summit_2023.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1623993/Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/experience-the-power-of-ai-integration-wondershares-software-suite-at-dublin-tech-summit-301839025.html ESTES PARK, CO / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Taranis Resources Inc. ("Taranis" or the "Company") (TSX.V:TRO)(OTCQB:TNREF) has had its legal counsel write to the Honourable Josie Osborne, BC Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation, ("EMLI") demanding action on an exploration permit application that was submitted to the Cranbrook regional office nearly a year ago. The permit application addresses a number of drill sites and roads that must be constructed at the Thor project in order to test for the presence of a large intrusive target, which was outlined by an airborne geophysical survey in early May of 2022. In a joint announcement with the Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia on August 15, 2022, EMLI committed to improvements in processing of such applications. Yet despite these promises, Taranis' application remains outstanding. "Taranis has made every reasonable effort to engage in good faith and be responsive. Now we call upon the Minister to ensure appropriate action is taken by the ministry staff," said President and CEO John Gardiner. "The Supreme Court of Canada has been clear that the Crown's duty to consult does not provide a veto, and government must respect third parties rights as well as Indigenous interests." Mr. Gardiner added, "We have many US investors that are watching this matter closely, and we urge the government to take steps that enhance investor confidence in British Columbia." A copy of the letter to Minister Osborne is available on the Taranis website at www.taranisresources.com Qualified Person Exploration activities at the Thor project were overseen by John Gardiner (P. Geo.), who is a Qualified Person under the meaning of Canadian National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Gardiner is responsible for, and approves of the technical content in this News Release. John Gardiner is a principal of John J. Gardiner & Associates, LLC which operates in British Columbia under Firm Permit Number 1002256. For additional information on Taranis or its 100%-owned Thor project in British Columbia, visit www.taranisresources.com Taranis currently has 85,937,104 shares issued and outstanding (93,012,104 shares on a fully-diluted basis). TARANIS RESOURCES INC. Per: John J. Gardiner (P. Geo.), President and CEO For further information contact: John J. Gardiner 681 Conifer Lane Estes Park, Colorado 80517 Phone: (303) 716-5922 Cell: (720) 209-3049 johnjgardiner@earthlink.net 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. This News Release may contain forward looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results that may prove to be inaccurate as a result of factors beyond its control, and actual results may differ materially from expected results. SOURCE: Taranis Resources, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758423/Taranis-Demands-BC-Government-Action-on-Permit-Application Regulatory News: TotalEnergies EP Gabon's (Paris:EC) ordinary Annual Shareholders' Meeting was held today in Port-Gentil, chaired by Mr. Henri-Max NDONG NZUE. Shareholders approved all resolutions recommended by the Board of Directors, including: Approval of the 2022 financial statements including a net income of $340 million under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) referential and $131 million under OHADA standards. Approval of the payment of a net dividend of $22.22 per share related to the financial year 2022 for a total amount of $100 million. Ratification of Mr Akim Mohamed DAOUDA's co-optation as director for two-year terms expiring at the end of the Annual Shareholder's Meeting called to approve the 2024 financial statements and Mr Georges-Eric N'KOMA for the remainder of his predecessor's term, until the Annual Shareholders' Meeting called to approve the 2023 financial statements. Renewal of the directors mandates of MM. Henri-Max NDONG NZUE, Aristide OBIANG MEBALE, Dimitri LOBADOWSKY, Yann DUCHESNE and Etienne MBOUMBA for a two-year term expiring at the end of the Annual Shareholders' Meeting called to approve the 2024 financial statements. Determination of the global compensation ceiling of the statutory auditors for preparing their reports on the 2023 financial statements. A detailed breakdown of the vote tallies will be posted on the Company's website www.ep.totalenergies.ga in the coming days. The Board of Directors in its meeting today approved the modalities of the dividend payment. The $22,22 per share dividend will be paid in euro as from June 9, 2023 in an equivalent amount of 20.80 per share, based on the European Central Bank's rate (or its corresponding value in CFA francs) of $1.0683 per euro on May 31, 2023. About TotalEnergies EP Gabon TotalEnergies EP Gabon is 58.28% owned by TotalEnergies SE, 25% by the Gabonese Republic and 16.72% by the public. About TotalEnergies TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our 100,000 employees are committed to energy that is ever more affordable, cleaner, more reliable and accessible to as many people as possible. Active in more than 130 countries, TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the well-being of people. @TotalEnergies TotalEnergies TotalEnergies TotalEnergies Cautionary Note The terms "TotalEnergies", "TotalEnergies Company" and "Company" appearing in this document are used to refer to TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that TotalEnergies SE controls directly or indirectly. Similarly, the terms "we", "us", "our" may also be used to refer to these entities or their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE holds a stake directly or indirectly are separate and autonomous legal persons. TotalEnergies SE cannot be held liable for acts or omissions emanating from these companies. This document may contain forward-looking statements. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are dependent on risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries undertakes or assumes any commitment or responsibility to investors or any other stakeholder to update or revise, in particular as a result of new information or future events, any or all of the statements, forward-looking information, trends or objectives contained in this document. Information regarding risk factors that could have a material adverse effect on TotalEnergies' financial results or operations is also available in the most up-to-date versions of the Universal Registration Document filed by TotalEnergies SE with the Autorite des marches financiers and Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005926/en/ Contacts: Contacts TotalEnergies EP Gabon actionnariat-epgabon@totalenergies.com Media Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 99 l presse@totalenergies.com l @TotalEnergiesPR Investor Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 46 l ir@totalenergies.com Get inspired by the testimonies of previous participants ahead of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome's upcoming Global Ministers' Classroom. If you serve as a pastor, evangelist, ministry leader, teacher, apostle, prophet, bishop, or youth pastor, the Global Ministers' Classroom with Pastor Chris Oyakhilome is tailored to meet your specific needs. This program commences on Friday, June 2nd, at 9 AM (EST), and will continue until Saturday, June 3rd. The Global Ministers' Classroom offers a diverse range of instructional sessions and interactive programs designed for church workers worldwide. The 24-hour event will be broadcasted live on various Christian platforms for free. Its primary objective is to equip aspiring pastors and assist existing ministers in elevating their spiritual growth and enhancing their preaching abilities. To participate, you can easily register yourself and all ministers within your network by visiting the official website of the Global Ministers' Classroom. As stated by the International School of Ministry, the organizer of the event, the program has been divinely orchestrated by the Spirit of God with the purpose of equipping, empowering and uplifting ministers of the gospel to achieve greater effectiveness in both their personal lives and ministries. At the Global Ministers' Classroom, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome welcomes ministers from various domains, including evangelists, apostles, ministry executives, prophets, pastors, youth ministers, teachers and missionaries. This year's event signifies the fifth edition of the program. Pastor Chris spearheads evangelist movement Throughout the years, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has served as a profound inspiration to millions of people worldwide through his distinctive approach to conveying the message of God. Since its establishment in 2007, the International School of Ministry has provided the pastor with a platform to impart knowledge and train thousands of ministers from various parts of the world. Operating as an integral part of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome's Christ Embassy ministry, the International School of Ministry has been instrumental in equipping ministers of the gospel. Ministers from all corners of the globe have shared remarkable testimonies of experiencing extraordinary transformations in their lives and ministries as a result of their encounter with the International School of Ministry. As stated by the International School of Ministry, attendees of the Global Ministers' Classroom will have the opportunity to acquire divine strategies for successful soul-winning and evangelism directly from esteemed pastors of Christ Embassy, including Pastor Chris Oyakhilome. Evangelism has emerged as one of the rapidly expanding religious movements globally, bridging gaps between Christian denominations and uniting believers in their shared goal of spreading their faith in God. Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has made significant contributions to the advancement and maturation of the evangelical movement through the establishment of the International School of Ministry. Through his teachings, he serves as a source of inspiration and empowerment for church leaders, encouraging them to effectively convey God's message of forgiveness, salvation and eternal life to people worldwide. Global Ministers' Classroom changes lives of participants Pastor Chris Oyakhilome held the first Global Ministers' Classroom in 2018. Every year, thousands of people write testimonies of their experiences at the event in the days following it. Pastor MV Thomas from India attended the event in 2022 and implemented his learnings in his day-to-day work. "Through the teachings at the GMC, my leadership capacity was greatly increased. I became more committed to the vision of global evangelism, which led me to travel to countries such as Singapore and Bangladesh, to host Ministers Conferences for the training and equipping for more ministers for phenomenal ministry impact," he stated. Pastor Isaac Zirebwa from Zimbabwe also took Pastor Chris Oyakhilome's words to heart. "After one of the editions of the GMC, I hosted the largest Ministers Conference in my country. I have also experienced notable increase in my personal finance, church growth and leadership capacity," he said. Pastor Isaac Zirebwa is far from the only one who has witnessed church growth following the Global Ministers' Classroom. Pastor Martinis Marinko from Croatia experienced the same thing. "I attended GMC 2022 and experienced a tangible increase in the anointing of God's Spirit in my personal life and ministry. My church has also experienced increased growth tremendously ever since," he said. Who is Pastor Chris Oyakhilome? Pastor Chris Oyakhilome is a well-known minister across the globe and is considered one of the most influential religious leaders in Africa. In 1987, he established the Christ Embassy church in his native Nigeria. Over the years, the ministry has gathered around 13 million members with most of them residing in Nigeria, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States. Pastor Chris Oyakhilome hosts multiple online events a year, paving the way for participation from believers all over the world. Among the most famous programs are the Global Ministers' Classroom, the Healing Streams Live Healing Services and the Your LoveWorld Specials. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / (TSXV:OGN)(OTCQX:OGNRF) Orogen Royalties Inc. ("Orogen" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has signed a purchase and sale agreement (the "Agreement") with Gold Plata Mineral Investments Corp. ("Gold Plata"), to acquire a 1% net smelter return ("NSR") royalty interest in the La Rica copper-gold project in northern Colombia. Highlights La Rica is a 160 square-kilometre land package located in the Mande Batholith, the northernmost segment of the prolific Andean copper belt that extends from Chile through to Panama. The royalty Area of Interest ("AOI") contains at least four undrilled copper-gold porphyry targets within a fifteen kilometre long trend of anomalous copper geochemistry on the western margin of the Mande Batholith. La Rica contains outcropping chalcopyrite, bornite and gold mineralization related to potassically altered quartz diorite porphyries. The namesake La Rica zone is defined by 118 samples taken over a 600 metre by 500 metre area averaging 0.76% copper and 0.47 g/t gold. La Rica is currently held by a private exploration company ("Private Company") with land holdings in Colombia. "The acquisition of a 1% NSR royalty on the La Rica project aligns with Orogen's strategy of using its technical expertise to identify low-cost royalties with significant exploration potential that could provide strong risk-adjusted returns," commented Orogen CEO Paddy Nicol. "La Rica represents a rare opportunity for exposure to an exploration target in the Mande Batholith, an important and underexplored component of the South American Eocene-Oligocene arc that hosts giant porphyry copper districts including Escondida, Chuquicamata, Colluasi and Cobre Panama." About the La Rica Project The Mande Batholith (Figure 1) was first identified as prospective for porphyry copper targets by a regional stream sediment survey carried out by Ingeominas (Colombian Geological Survey) and the United Nations in 1970. The La Rica project was one of the priority porphyry copper targets recognized in this study. La Rica occurs on the western margin of the Mande Batholith proximal to the Murindo Fault, a regional-scale arc-parallel fault system that can be traced down the axis of the Mande Batholith (Figure 2). The Murindo Fault is considered analogous to the Domeyko Fault System (West Fissure) of northern Chile that localizes Eocene-Oligocene aged copper deposits. Figure 1 - La Rica location in the Mande Batholith in Colombia The La Rica project hosts an elongate cluster of porphyry copper-gold centres containing at least four distinct porphyry centres. The outcropping mineralization comprises chalcopyrite, bornite and gold and occurs in quartz diorite porphyries with intense potassic alteration and hydrothermal magnetite. A large soil geochemical grid combined with rock and stream sediment sampling over the La Rica target displays fifteen kilometres of copper anomalism entirely within Orogen's AOI (Figure 2). The namesake La Rica zone became a focus of early work with rock sampling, 118 samples, over an area of 500 metres by 600 metres averaging 0.76% copper and 0.47 g/t gold coincident with a historic IP chargeability anomaly. There has been no historic drilling on the La Rica property. Terms of the Agreement Under the terms of the Agreement, Orogen has acquired a 1% NSR royalty interest from Gold Plata pursuant to the La Rica royalty agreement (the "Royalty Agreement") with Private Company for US$1.75 million and a one-time contingent payment of US$5 million subject to either one of the following events: Upon the exercise of a back-in right associated with the La Rica project whereby Orogen receives a US$6 million payment from Private Company; or Upon the exercise of the buydown right, by the Private Company, whereby half (0.5% NSR royalty) of the 1.0% NSR royalty on the La Rica project can be purchased from Orogen for US$15 million. Figure 2: Location of the La Rica project within the Mande Batholith with composite geochemistry: Rocks (squares), stream sediments (circles) and soils (triangles). Qualified Person Statement All new technical data, as disclosed in this press release, has been verified by Laurence Pryer, Ph.D., P.Geo., VP. Exploration for Orogen. Dr. Pryer is a qualified person as defined under the terms of National Instrument 43-101. Certain technical disclosure in this release is a summary of previously released information and the Company is relying on the interpretation provided by the relevant referenced partner. Additional information can be found on the links in the footnotes or on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). About Orogen Royalties Inc. Orogen Royalties Inc. is focused on organic royalty creation and royalty acquisitions on precious and base metal discoveries in western North America. The Company's royalty portfolio includes the Ermitano gold and silver mine in Sonora, Mexico (2% NSR royalty) being mined by First Majestic Silver Corp. and the Silicon gold project (1% NSR royalty) in Nevada, USA, being advanced by AngloGold Ashanti NA. The Company is well financed with several projects actively being explored under joint ventures. On Behalf of the Board OROGEN ROYALTIES INC. Paddy Nicol President & CEO To find out more about Orogen, please contact Paddy Nicol, President & CEO at 604-248-8648, and Marco LoCascio, Vice President, Corporate Development at 604-248-8648. Visit our website at www.orogenroyalties.com. Orogen Royalties Inc. 1015 - 789 West Pender Street Vancouver, BC Canada V6C 1H2 info@orogenroyalties.com Forward Looking Information This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward looking statements". All statements in this presentation, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that Orogen Royalties Inc. (the "Company") expect to occur, are forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although the Company believe the expectations expressed in such forward looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. SOURCE: Orogen Royalties Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758442/Orogen-Royalties-Acquires-a-Copper-Royalty-in-Colombia ATHENS, GA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / ByoPlanet, a wholly owned subsidiary of Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. (the "Company,") (OTC PINK:PLPL), a leading innovator in revolutionary cleaning technology, announced the completion of a third-party valuation firm's estimates of ByoPlanet's business and assets based on ByoPlanet's unaudited financial statements and internal projections. The third-party firm reviewed and analyzed ByoPlanet's 2020-2022 unaudited financial results, market position, and future growth prospects. The valuation, completed in Q1, 2023, highlights several key estimations that demonstrate the robustness of ByoPlanet's operations, ByoPlanet's enterprise value, and potential for long-term success. The valuation was conducted using ByoPlanet's unaudited financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2020 - 2022, and ByoPlanet's internal five-year financial projections based upon an analysis of the financial metrics from 10 leading publicly traded companies in the same sector as ByoPlanet. A key component to the assessment was ByoPlanet's intellectual property, which the Company believes is both groundbreaking and consistently outperforms competitors. Read the valuation here. Some of the key highlights from the valuation include: Strong Past Financial Performance: The report is derived from ByoPlanet's historical unaudited financial performance from 2020 to 2022, and accounts for consistent revenue generation, profit margins, and strong cash flow. The financial solvency of the company is further supported by a minimal debt position and strong shareholders' equity. Market Position: The valuation recognizes ByoPlanet as a developing market leader in the disinfectant and cleaning technology sector. ByoPlanet's intellectual property, innovative products/services, customer-centric approach, and strategic market positioning have contributed to an assessment of ByoPlanet's current and growing market acceptance and competitive advantage. Promising Growth Prospects: The report also emphasizes the significant growth potential focusing on ByoPlanet's intellectual property. It recognizes the company's expansion plans, successful product/service diversification, and possible strategic acquisitions as key drivers for future growth. The report highlights the ability of ByoPlanet to capitalize on emerging market trends and unlock new revenue streams. Strong Intellectual Property Portfolio: The valuation report acknowledges ByoPlanet's extensive intellectual property portfolio as valuable. It recognizes the company's commitment to innovation, research and development, and intellectual property protection, reinforcing ByoPlanet's ability to maintain a competitive edge in the market now and in the future. The third-party firm employed several techniques and methodologies to determine the estimate range. These included a Weighted Average Cost of Capital analysis, Guideline Public Company Methods for Size Adjustment Analysis, Growth Adjustment Analysis, and Profitability Adjustment Analysis. Additionally, historical unaudited income statements and balance sheets were taken into account. Utilizing the Discounted Cash Flow Method (DCF), a base case scenario was estimated at $270M. Using the market approach, a base case scenario resulted in a high value of $267M and a low-value estimate of $222M. The base case scenario of the point estimate of enterprise value was determined to be approximately $250M. Commenting on the third-party report, Rick O'Shea, Founder of ByoPlanet and now CEO of Plandai, expressed his satisfaction with the results. "We're delighted with the results. It helps support our belief in the value of our IP and the unrivaled performance of our cleaning technology. We believe that our revolutionary cleaning technology has disrupted the market, delivering unmatched results in various sectors, including animal health, hospitality, and food processing, with excellent prospects for growth. The Company's dedication to sustainability and efficiency has garnered ByoPlanet a strong reputation and loyal customer base. We believe that merging ByoPlanet's valuable assets into PLPL will help enhance the Company's market cap and improve shareholder value." Benchmarking played a significant role in the third-party report. The third-party firm utilized the Guideline Public Company Method for benchmarking ByoPlanet against the Latest Twelve Months (LTM) data, One-Year Forward (FY1) projections, Two-Year Forward (FY2) projections, and Three-Year Forward (FY3) projections. ByoPlanet's performance consistently demonstrated its potential growth. Mr. O'Shea further commented: "The Company is nearing the end of its fiscal year on June 30th, after which our independent PCAOB audit firm will conduct a full audit including the valuation of ByoPlanet's assets, which we anticipate will be consistent with the third-party firm's calculations and estimates. We are committed to performing and meeting our goals and milestones and exceeding estimates, and we will update valuation disclosures to the market promptly and in a compliant fashion." NO OFFER OR SOLICITATION This press release is not intended to and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to sell or to buy any securities. This press release shall also not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any states or jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the 1933 Securities and Exchange Act, as amended. ABOUT PLANDAI AND BYOPLANET: ByoPlanet, a wholly owned subsidiary of Plandai Biotechnology, Inc, with a mission dedicated to enhancing indoor air quality, is a leader in disinfection solutions, providing innovative technologies and services that improve health outcomes in a variety of settings. ByoPlanet's commitment extends to developing superior disinfection and infection control solutions with an aim to boost air quality within indoor environments. ByoPlanet's technology is the only electrostatic sprayer technology certified by the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC). Working closely with its partners, ByoPlanet develops customized solutions to meet their unique needs. Trusted by businesses and organizations around the world, including those in the sectors of animal health, hospitals, education, and government agencies, ByoPlanet's disinfection solutions are at the forefront of creating healthier indoor spaces. For more information, visit https://byoplanet.com/ and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. ByoPlanet Media Contact Adrian Fulle Global Chief Marketing Officer info@byoplanet.com Safe Harbor Statement This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult to predict. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this release, including statements regarding future events, our future financial performance, business strategy, projections, past unaudited financial results, and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. PLPL and ByoPlanet have attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including "anticipates," "believes," "can," "continue," "could," "estimates," "expects," "intends," "may," "plans," "potential," "predicts," or "should," or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. The forward-looking statements made herein are based on PLPL and ByoPlanet's own past unaudited financial data and current expectations and assumptions about future events and are based on currently ByoPlanet's available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. Actual results could differ materially from those described or implied by such forward-looking statements due to various important factors, including, without limitation, ByoPlanet's limited operating history, competitive factors in ByoPlanet's industry and market, and other general economic conditions. The forward-looking statements made herein are based on PLPL's and ByoPlanet's current estimates, expectations, assumptions, and projections, which could be incorrect. The forward-looking statements made herein speak only as of the date of this release. Neither PLPL nor ByoPlanet undertakes any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as otherwise required by law. PLPL and ByoPlanet caution you that these forward-looking statements are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of PLPL and ByoPlanet, incident to the development, production, and development of ByoPlanet's business. In addition, PLPL and ByoPlanet caution you that the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are subject to the following factors: (i) the occurrence of any event, change, or other circumstances that could delay ByoPlanet's business; (ii) PLPL's ability to realize the anticipated benefits of ByoPlanet's business, which may be affected by, among other things, competition and the ability of ByoPlanet to grow and manage growth profitably; (iii) costs related to ByoPlanet's business combination; (iv) changes in applicable laws or regulations; and (v) the possibility that ByoPlanet's business may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and competitive factors. Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described in this press release, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and plans could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. SOURCE: Plandai Biotechnology View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758503/Third-Party-Valuation-Firm-Provides-Estimated-Valuation-of-ByoPlanets-A-Subsidiary-Of-Plandai-PLPL-Business-and-Assets Lightmatter, a Boston, MA-based company which specializes in photonic technologies, raised $154M in Series C funding. The round, which brought the total amount to over $270M, saw participation from SIP Global, Fidelity Management & Research Company, Viking Global Investors, GV (Google Ventures), HPE Pathfinder and existing investors. Led by CEO Lightmatter has developed photonic processors that are faster than any conventional processors in existence today and is answering the call for increased compute speed, low energy density, and reduced chip heating. The company is introducing its photonics-enabled products to the market: Envise, Passage, and Idiom. The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and its development efforts to bring the above products to market and enable cloud providers, semiconductor companies, and enterprises to leverage photonic technology to bring a new level of performance and energy savings to advanced AI and HPC workloads. In 2022, Lightmatter announced growth with the recruitment of top talent to its leadership team, including Richard Ho, who led Googles Tensor Processing Unit program, and Ritesh Jain, who led datacenter chip packaging at Intel, as VPs of Hardware Engineering. The company also announced Jessie Zhang, who led corporate financial planning at Apple, as VP of Finance, and Steve Klinger, former VP at Innovium, as VP of Product. Lightmatter currently has over 20 active roles across product, R&D, and engineering, and holds over 150 patents worldwide. FinSMEs 31/05/2023 Pashoot Robotics, a Ness Ziona, Israel-based company which specializes in contextual robotics for manufacturing, closed its Pre-Seed funding, raising $1.5m. Backers included private investors and the Israeli Innovation Authority grant. The company intends to use the funds to further develop its technology and make robotic automation accessible to a broader range of users. Led by Ron Fridental (CEO) and Dr. Mica Arie-Nachimson (CTO), Pashoot Robotics focuses on developing robotic automation solutions that cater to SMEs and high-mix production that currently have no real answer. It aims to tap into a market of over $600 billion by using AI to replace manual engineering automation processes, removing its entry barrier. FinSMEs 31/05/2023 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is working on a Lightweight and Portable Payment System (LPSS) that can be used for critical transactions during a natural disaster or war. The system is specifically designed to facilitate crucial payments, and also sustain the liquidity flow of the economy, RBI disclosed in its latest annual report. Keeping this objective in mind, RBI conceptualised LPSS. This payment system will be independent of conventional technologies and can be operated from anywhere by a bare minimum staff. As a result of intricate wired networks and advanced IT infrastructure, payment systems such as RTGS, NEFT, and UPI have had to cope with high transaction volumes and maintain uninterrupted availability in the past. According to the RBI, the system is expected to operate on minimalistic hardware and software. Additionally, it would be made active only on a need basis. Notably, it would process transactions that are critical to ensure stability of the economy, such as government and market related transactions. RBI also stated that this payment system could ensure zero downtime of payment and settlement system in the country. It will keep the liquidity pipeline of the economy alive and intact by facilitating uninterrupted. The central bank also stated that having such a resilient system is likely to act as a bunker equivalent in payment systems. It will thereby enhance public confidence in digital payments and financial market infrastructure even during extreme conditions. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Amidst divorce rumours of Harry and Meghan, Princess Dianas former butler has sensationally claimed Prince Harry has finally woken up to the truth about his wife and will soon return to the UK for good. And as for Meghan Markle, it has been a while since Meghan stood on UK soil. In conversation with GB News, Paul Burrell who worked for Diana for more than 10 years until her death in 1997 has claimed the Duke of Sussex is staying with his wife, Meghan, only for the sake of their two children, Archie, 4, and Lilibet, 1. According to a report published in nzherald.com, Burrell says, Am I the only person in the UK that is thinking, has Harry finally woken up to the truth? Has he finally seen the truth of what his wife is doing and that hes been brainwashed and mesmerised by her beauty or something? Because we all know that but he doesnt seem to see it, Burrell said. He added that he wants Harry to be happy and see his family grow but admitted there was a niggling doubt in his mind and he believed the prince would return to the UK for good and be welcomed with open arms by both his father King Charles and brother Prince William, despite reports of their estranged relationship. I have no doubt that, when this happens, because we all know that it will happen, when it does happen then he will return to the United Kingdom and I think his father, the King, and his brother, the Prince of Wales, will both greet him back into the country with open arms. Grant Harrold told the New York Post, Id never say never, its always possible that one day he might want to come home, its possible that he might buy a property here if he wanted to come over more and Meghan didnt want to come over. Meghan doesnt really have any family here as such, all her family are in the States and thats where Harry has decided he wants to set up his home. The last time Meghan was in the country was in September 2022 as both she and Harry made an appearance at the One Young World Summit in Manchester. During her speech at the event, Meghan she said it was very nice to be back, but the good mood was quickly dashed as The Queen passed away on 8 September and Harry and Meghans stay in the UK was extended. Harry moving back to UK without Meghan On the other hand, there is speculation that probably Harry is moving back to UK. But whenever it happens Harry will be welcomed back home with open hands by his father, King Charles III. According to a report published in nzherald.com, Burrell says, Am I the only person in the UK that is thinking, has Harry finally woken up to the truth? Has he finally seen the truth of what his wife is doing and that hes been brainwashed and mesmerised by her beauty or something? Because we all know that but he doesnt seem to see it, Burrell said. He added that he wants Harry to be happy and see his family grow but admitted there was a niggling doubt in his mind and he believed the prince would return to the UK for good and be welcomed with open arms by both his father King Charles and brother Prince William, despite reports of their estranged relationship. I have no doubt that, when this happens, because we all know that it will happen, when it does happen then he will return to the United Kingdom and I think his father, the King, and his brother, the Prince of Wales, will both greet him back into the country with open arms. Harry has a room for himself to stay away from Meghan According to Sky News Contributor Daisy Cousens says the alleged reports Prince Harry has contacted divorce lawyers shows with great press comes great pressure and is not conducive to maintaining an effective relationship. There were always going to be potential cracks appearing in this marriage with great press and great attention comes great pressure. Ms Cousens further told Sky News host Caroline Di Russo, I would not be surprised if any of this is true. According to Irish Mirror, Lady Colin Campbell, 73, was commenting on reports alleging Harry had been spending time alone in two hotels, one near his home in Montecito and another in Los Angeles, the Scottish Daily Express reports. Lady Campbell, who is known as Lady C, claimed to GB News: There have been problems in the marriage supposedly for some time. I mean, I have heard from five totally reliable sources that Harry called in the lawyers some months ago. (With added inputs from agencies) Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Caste discrimination has become a buzz word in America and after Seattle became the first US city to ban this practice in February this year, other cities and states are following suit. One of the states that are moving towards outlawing caste bias is California. In April, Californias Senate Judiciary Committee passed the bill banning caste discrimination, despite strong opposition from Indian-American business and temple organisations. Californias attempt to become the first state in the nation to ban caste bias is being led by members of a small minority religious community, called the Ravidassia. They are followers of Ravidas, a 14th Century Indian guru, who preached caste and class equality. As of date, there are around 20,000 Ravidassias in California, mostly located in Central Valley. They say that championing the legislation against caste bias is a worthy cause; moreover, fighting for equality is part of their history and their spiritual DNA. Guru Ravidas Ravidas was an Indian guru, mystic and poet who were one of the most renowned figures in the Bhakti movement, which placed love and devotion to god above all and preached against the caste system. He was born in the 14th century in a village near Varanasi to a family of cobblers and tanners who belonged to the then-untouchable or leather-working caste known as chamars. The Guru Granth Sahib, which is the sacred text of Sikhism, bears 40 verses or shabds of Ravidas. Ravidassia place of worship A Ravidassia place of worship is called a sabha, dera, gurdwara or gurughar, which could all be translated as temple. Adherents cover their heads and remove their shoes before entering the prayer hall or place of worship. In California Ravidassia temples, the Guru Granth Sahib is the focal point of the prayer hall. The temples serve a post-worship meal as Sikh gurdwaras also do, which is known as langar. Ravidassia temples often display idols and/or pictures of Guru Ravidas in the prayer halls. The Ravidassia identity Professor Ronki Ram says the Ravidassia identity is challenging to pin down because it cannot be compartmentalised. More recently, they have been trying to carve out a separate identity for themselves, he said. But, they also follow Sikh traditions. Many male Ravidassia members wear long hair in a turban and carry Sikh articles of faith such as the kada or bracelet, kanga or wooden comb and kirpan, the sheathed, single-edged knife. Many men and women in the community also have Sikh last names Singh and Kaur. Ram points out that idols and images of Ravidas, however, can only be seen in a Ravidas temple. In addition, the community celebrates the birthday of their guru, which typically falls in February. Many Ravidass temples also observe the birth anniversary of BR Ambedkar, the Dalit rights icon whose given name was Bhimrao. The faith also has followers who are Hindu and those who are from different parts of India. Ravidassia community members in California are largely of Punjabi descent. Relationship with Sikhism The Ravidassia communitys relationship with Sikhism is flexible and nuanced, said Sasha Sabherwal, assistant professor of Anthropology and Asian Studies, Northeastern University. Its not an either-or relationship, she said. Its a much more complex idea of what their faith means for them. Some (Ravidassia temples) may be autonomous spaces. But, in many cases, its blended or overlapping rather than something entirely independent. There is still a commitment to this larger Sikh project. Sabherwal said the path to unity may lie in making meaningful structural changes. The issue is that often, caste is not even acknowledged as a problem, she said. With inputs from AP Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. There are fears of a huge escalation as tensions between Serbia and Kosovo flared up again this week after Kosovos police attacked Serb-dominated districts in the regions north and seized local municipality buildings. Clashes erupt between police and local Serbs in northern Kosovo after new ethnic Albanian mayors take office. There have been violent clashes between Kosovos police and NATO-led peacekeepers on one side and local Serbs on the other, leaving dozens of people injured on both sides. Serbia raised the combat readiness of its troops stationed near the border and warned it wouldnt stand by if Serbs in Kosovo were attacked again. The situation has again fuelled fears of a renewal of the 1998-99 conflict in Kosovo that claimed more than 10,000 lives and left more than one million homeless. Lets take a closer look at why tensions between Kosovo and Serbia persist. Why are Serbia and Kosovo at odds? Kosovo is a mainly ethnic Albanian populated territory that was formerly a province of Serbia. It declared independence in 2008. Serbia has refused to recognise Kosovos statehood and still considers it part of Serbia, even though it has no formal control there. Kosovos independence has been recognised by about 100 countries, including the United States. Russia, China and five EU countries, most of them with separatist regions of their own, have sided with Serbia. The deadlock has kept tensions simmering and prevented full stabilisation of the Balkan region after the bloody wars in the 1990s. How did Serbias allies react? Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said the situation in Kosovo was alarming and that it could provoke another conflict in the heart of Europe. A huge explosion is being prepared in the centre of Europe, in the place where, in 1999, NATO attacked Yugoslavia, violating every imaginable (international) principle, he said, according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti. China said that it was closely following the developments. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Nin urged NATO to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the relevant countries and truly do what is conducive to regional peace. Whats the latest flare-up about? Serbs boycotted last months local elections held in northern Kosovo, where they represent a majority. Last Friday, newly elected ethnic Albanian mayors moved into their offices with the help of Kosovos riot police. Serbs tried to prevent them from taking over the premises, but the police fired tear gas to disperse them. On Monday, Serbs engaged in fierce clashes with NATO peacekeepers, leaving more than 50 rioters and 30 international troops injured. The election boycott followed a collective resignation by Serb officials from the area, including administrative staff, judges, and police officers, in November 2022. What is NATO doing in Kosovo? Till now, there have been some 3,800 NATO troops stationed in Kosovo, primarily on peacekeeping duties, but also to watch over the borders, especially the one with Serbia where Belgrade has currently been beefing up its troop presence. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Tuesday the alliance had sent 700 more troops to Kosovo to help quell violent protests and had put another battalion on standby in case the riots spread. How deep is the ethnic conflict in Kosovo? The dispute over Kosovo is centuries-old. Serbia cherishes the region as the heart of its statehood and religion. Numerous medieval Serb Orthodox Christian monasteries are in Kosovo. Serb nationalists view a 1389 battle against Ottoman Turks there as a symbol of its national struggle. Kosovos majority ethnic Albanians view Kosovo as their country and accuse Serbia of occupation and repression. Ethnic Albanian rebels launched a rebellion in 1998 to rid the country of Serbian rule. Belgrades brutal response prompted a NATO intervention in 1999, which forced Serbia to pull out and cede control to international peacekeepers. Have there been attempts to resolve the dispute? There have been constant international efforts to find common ground between the two former wartime foes, but there has been no final comprehensive agreement so far. EU officials have mediated negotiations designed to normalise relations between Serbia and Kosovo. Numerous agreements have been reached, but were rarely implemented on the ground. Some areas have seen results, like introducing freedom of movement within the country. Who are the main players? Both Kosovo and Serbia are led by nationalist leaders who have shown no readiness to compromise. In Kosovo, Albin Kurti, a former student protest leader and political prisoner in Serbia, leads the government and is the main negotiator in EU-mediated talks. He was also known as a fierce supporter of Kosovos unification with Albania and is against any compromise with Serbia. Also Read: Whats behind the long-running conflict between Serbia and Kosovo? Serbia is led by populist President Aleksandar Vucic, who was information minister during the war in Kosovo. The former ultranationalist insists that any solution must be a compromise in order to last and says the country wont settle unless it gains something. What happens next? International officials are hoping to speed up negotiations and reach a solution in the coming months. Both nations must normalise ties if they want to advance toward EU membership. No major breakthrough would mean prolonged instability, economic decline and constant potential for clashes. Any Serbian military intervention in Kosovo would mean a clash with NATO peacekeepers stationed there. With inputs from AP Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The presence of pilotless vehicles fills the skies over Ukraine. Drones have become a ubiquitous part of the war in Ukraine. Both Russia and Ukraine are using drones in this war to remotely locate targets and drop bombs, among other purposes. From tiny quadcopters buzzing over frontline trenches with cameras and grenades to flying bombs lugging warheads weighing dozens of kilograms (pounds) into Kyiv and Moscow, drones have marked the Ukraine war like none before it. In recent months, invading Russian troops have sent waves of Iranian-made Shahed explosive drones at Kyiv and other major cities, while Ukraine has launched unmanned attacks of its own in Crimea and Russian border region Belgorod. The Russian government even accused Ukraine on Tuesday of attacking Moscow with such devices. Todays picture is a far cry from the hype surrounding Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 drones in the early months of the war. The aircraft made headlines and were praised in song for their role in smashing Moscows armoured columns and the Black Sea fleet flagship, the Moskva. But such models known as MALE, for Medium Altitude, Long Endurance have lost relevance as the conflict has dragged on. The front has stabilised and become impenetrable, as the Russians have deployed systems to defend against attack from the air, a European defence industry source told AFP on condition of anonymity. Now the drone war has become a numbers game. Most self-detonating drones are downed by air defences, used to force the defenders to fire their missiles and run down reserves, a senior French military source said. You also create terror and uncertainty at all times. Over the long term, that has value, the source added. Front lines Eroding enemy air defence cheaply is especially vital for Russia, whose production of long-range missiles is limited to around 40 per month, analysts Jack Watling and Nick Reynolds of British defence think-tank RUSI wrote in a recent report. Moscows air force launches large numbers of aircraft to increase the number of potential axes of threat (and) to identify gaps in Ukrainian air defence where traditional missiles could get through, they said. Kyiv also uses commercially available Chinese propeller-powered drones or old Soviet jet-powered reconnaissance drones that can attack well inside Russian territory, the European industrial source said. The vast majority of drones are smaller models used on the front lines for both reconnaissance and attack. Ukrainian troops have published many videos on social media showing modified commercially available drones dropping bombs onto Russian soldiers positions. On any given 10-kilometre (six-mile) stretch of front line, it is typical for there to be between 25 and 50 UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) from both sides, RUSIs Watling and Reynolds wrote. Purpose-built Ukrainian Furia and Russian Eleron-3 drones range up to 50 kilometres, while modified commercial quadcopters many bought through crowdfunding can venture fewer than 10. Also Read: Who is to blame for the drone attack on the Kremlin? The swarms have pushed both sides into deploying electronic defences, lowering the cost of countering devices that are too cheap to be worth shooting down with pricey missiles. Russian forces now employ approximately one major electronic warfare system per 10km of frontage according to RUSI, with more specialised EW capabilities further up the chain of command. The Russians have stepped up their electronic warfare game. Its a huge change, the senior French officer said. High attrition Even individual Russian platoons are now equipped with anti-drone weapons, RUSI said, including directional jammers and arrays for hijacking UAVs. Anti-drone rifles that emit jamming signals are the absolute basics of defence, what really works are non-portable jammers deployed close to the front line, the European industry source said. But such big spheres on tripods with generators are easily spotted and have a limited life expectancy, they added. Drone and anti-drone warfare were a new form of combined arms combat, the French officer said. Just as we have infantry, cavalry and artillery, so we have drones, electronic warfare and connectivity. With so much energy going into their destruction, most small drones wont fly more than four or six times before being shot down, the officer added. Ukraine has said they are losing around 10,000 drones per month across the large range of devices they use a figure impossible to verify that could be aimed at securing more Western aid. Also Read: What are kamikaze drones deployed by Russia to strike Ukraine? If breakthroughs and counteroffensives see a return to rapidly shifting front lines, drones will remain relevant. Ukraine could use drones to clear Russian defensive barriers in its widely trailed summer attack, for instance to drop explosives into a minefield, literally blowing a path through, Vikram Mittal, a professor at US military academy West Point, wrote in Forbes. Where highly mobile advancing troops get cut off, drones could offer a method to resupply these units with the ammunition and other supplies necessary for them to continue their operations, he added. With inputs from AFP Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. North Koreas attempt to launch its first military spy satellite ended in failure after it crashed into the ocean owing to a malfunction. After an unusually quick admission of failure, North Korean officials vowed to perform a second launch as soon as possible, suggesting that the countrys leader Kim Jong-un remains determined to build his weapons arsenal and impose more pressure on Washington and Seoul. North Korea does not have a functioning satellite and leader Kim Jong-un has made developing its space reconnaissance capability a top priority. Heres a look at what we know: What happened? North Korea pitched its military satellite as a necessary counterbalance to the growing US military presence in the region. The satellite was called Malligyong, which means telescope in Korean, and the rocket was named Chollima, after a mythical winged horse that often features in Pyongyangs propaganda. The Chollima lost thrust shortly after its early morning launch on Wednesday, plunging into the sea, North Korean state media said. According to the official KCNA news agency, the new Chollima-1 satellite launch rocket failed due to instability in the engine and fuel system, it added that officials were working to verify the grave defects that caused the rocket to malfunction. Pyongyang said it will investigate and fix the problems with the rocket and attempt another launch as soon as possible. As reported by The Guardian, South Korean military said it had salvaged an object presumed to be part of the crashed rocket in waters 200 km (124 miles) west of the south-western island of Eocheongdo. The military was analysing whether the rocket and its payload may have broken up in mid-air or crashed after vanishing from radar early, the Yonhap news agency reported. South Koreas military quickly located and salvaged part of the suspected wreckage, which experts say could yield a significant intelligence haul. Was the launch allowed? Kims regime is barred from using any ballistic missile technology under a raft of UN sanctions, including one that specifically demands North Korea not conduct any further nuclear test or any launch using ballistic missile technology. Also Read: Kim Jong-un has eyes in the sky Pyongyang regularly flouts these restrictions which it describes as an infringement on its sovereignty and has test-fired multiple intercontinental ballistic missiles already this year. It also claims it has the right to have a space programme. But a satellite launch and a weapon launch is the same technology, Chun In-bum, a retired South Korean army general, told AFP. A payload with a satellite is a satellite launch. A payload with a nuclear device is a nuclear weapon. Missiles & satellites are the same? Both satellite launches and long-range ballistic missiles require highly advanced expertise in similar ways, experts say. Ballistic missiles have internal guidance systems, allowing them to exit and then re-enter the atmosphere to hit specific targets on Earth. With a satellite launch, the rocket simply carries it to an intended height in space then separates, leaving the satellite in orbit and usually falling back to Earth. Surveillance from orbit presents its own technological challenges too. It is doubtful North Korea has the remote sensing technologies for a proper reconnaissance satellite, Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, told AFP. However, even a rudimentary eye in the sky could have military uses and would offer domestic political value for the Kim regime. Has North Korea done it before? Prior to Wednesday, Pyongyang had launched five satellites since 1998. Among the five, three failed immediately and two appeared to have been put into orbit but signals from them have never been independently detected, indicating they may have malfunctioned. The most recent satellite launch was in 2016. The following year, Pyongyang successfully test-fired its first ICBM. Satellites launched by North Korea in the past were effectively ICBM tests disguised as normal satellites, An Chan-il, a defector-turned-researcher who runs the World Institute for North Korea Studies, told AFP. However, there is no need for North Korea to use a satellite launch to cover up an ICBM test anymore, Park Won-gon, a professor of North Korean studies at Ewha Womans University, told AFP. North Korea has fired one missile after another without providing any rationale in recent years. North Korea had confirmed on Tuesday that it planned to launch what it called military reconnaissance satellite No 1 before 11 June, having told Japan of its plans a day earlier. What happened in Seoul? There was panic in the city of 10 million when an emergency text alert was sent out minutes after the launch, urging residents to prepare to evacuate. The North Korean launch sparked air raid sirens around Seoul about 6.30 am, causing confusion among residents who are used to pre-announced tests of the warning system in the middle of the day. It took some 20 minutes before authorities in the South Korean capital retracted the warning, saying it was incorrectly issued. A 37-year-father of two, who asked to be identified by his surname Yoon, told AFP he had been taking his children to a basement parking lot in panic when he received the retraction. I was standing utterly speechless and outraged, he said. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon defended the alert, acknowledging while it may have been an overreaction there can be no compromise on safety. Analysts said Wednesday mornings events illustrated problems for both North and South Korea, for Pyongyang in its space program and for Seoul in its public alert process. How the world reacted The US strongly condemned Wednesdays launch, which it said involved technologies that are directly related to North Koreas missile programme. The launch risks destabilising the security situation in the region and beyond, National Security Council spokesman Adam Hodge said as reported by The Guardian. In a phone call, officials from the US, Japan and South Korea strongly condemned the launch, Japans foreign ministry said. The three countries will stay vigilant with high sense of urgency, the report read. The UN secretary general, Antonio Guterres, also criticised Pyongyang, saying its use of ballistic missile technology was contrary to UN security council resolutions, Stephane Dujarric, a spokesman for Guterres, said in a statement. With inputs from AFP Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Auckland, New Zealand: Scott Technology (NZX: SCT ) has continued its momentum in the third quarter, following its strong H1 FY23 results. The company continues to build a solid pipeline of new contracts as global demand for automation continues to accelerate in response to labour challenges. Scott Technology CEO, John Kippenberger, says: Were pleased to offer our customers worldwide, solutions to aid the ongoing shortages in the labour market, through our smart, repeatable automated technologies. The Scott team continues to build and nurture relationships within our core sectors of materials handling, meat processing and mining, and we are seeing this pay off in continued positive trading across the business.. New contract wins Scott has secured its first contract to supply an automated modular mining solution to Mineral Resources Limited. The solution, which is valued at $12m, will process up to 1200 samples a day, maximizing uptime while maintaining accuracy and quality. The deal signals the commercial launch of Scotts modular mining product offering which was prototyped earlier in FY23. In line with the Scott 2025 strategy, this approach will enable Scott to deliver competitively priced solutions to the market, without the risks and margin erosion associated with the legacy end-to-end automated laboratory systems. The European team has also been busy securing several new materials handling contracts, including a $3.2m solution for A-ware Food Group and a $1.5m contract with Colruyt. In addition, Scott is delighted to be working with new dairy customer Incom Leone to deliver a multiline palletising system valued at $7m. The system will link several production lines to a palletiser with an output capacity of up to 30 pallets per hour. Momentum in the appliance business continues with a further contract signed with long-standing customer Midea for $6.5m. This is the third significant contract signed with the Midea Group this year alone, with a combined total of $23m. The upgrades arm of the appliance business remains a reliable source of high value, high margin contracts, reflecting strong customer confidence in Scott solutions and alignment with the Scott 2025 strategic pillar of authentic customer partnerships. Project and product updates The strategically significant materials handling project for Alliance Lorneville is moving positively through the final stages of commissioning and set to be completed mid-July. Once complete, the world class carton handling, sortation and palletising system, featuring Savoye technology, will be a showcase reference site for the Southern Hemisphere. Phase one of the Scott automated poultry trussing rollout for CostCo is progressing well with phase two proceeding in parallel. Following exposure at the International Production & Processing Expo in Atlanta earlier in the year, interest in the poultry trussing technology from the US market has been exceptional. A fit for purpose manufacturing centre is being set up in Christchurch to increase manufacturing capacity to meet demand. The team is focused on continuing on our positive trajectory and delivering strong results for the remainder of FY23, adds Kippenberger. ENDS Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: Fonterra confirms Milk Price Panel changes Ryman Director Nominations PEB - Clarification of Novitas Timeline Synlait intends to divest Dairyworks & Talbot Forest Cheese June 2nd Morning Report Alan Isaac appointed to NZ Markets Disciplinary Tribunal June 1st Morning Report Kiwi Property Notice of Meeting Chorus submits 2022 fibre regulatory report Synlait forecast milk price update It seems that controversies cannot bid adieu to Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle. The Sussexes marriage has once again become fodder for gossip, with abundant reports making the rounds about the royal couple allegedly wanting to call it quits. The Duke and Duchess, who are parents to two children Archie Harrison and Lilibet Lili Diana, have not addressed these rumours so far. Perfect marriages are a utopia and the British royal family is well aware of that. As speculations around Meghan and Harrys marriage refuse to die down, lets take a look at other royals who decided to go their separate ways. King Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon King Henry VIII, who ruled from 1509-1547, found his own church in order to leave his wife and marry his lover. After falling in love with his mistress Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII wanted to divorce his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. This was at a time when divorce was considered taboo by the Catholic Church. So, the king found his own religion and that was how the Church of England was born, reported Insider. He later beheaded Catherine for allegedly cheating on him. King Henry VIII went on to have four more wives over the course of his life. Princess Victoria Melita and Ernest Louis, Grand Duke of Hesse In 1894, Queen Victorias granddaughter Princess Victoria Melita of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha was married to Ernest Louis of Hesse. However, the princess was in love with her first cousin Grand Duke Kirill Vladimirovich of Russia. As per Vanity Fair magazine, Ernest who was also Princess Victorias first cousin told her on their wedding night he was not attracted to her. Their relationship was anything but happy and the couple finally divorced in 1901. Princess Victoria eventually tied the knot with her love Duke Kirill, noted Cosmopolitan magazine. Princess Margaret of England and Antony Armstrong-Jones Queen Elizabeths sister Princess Margaret tied the know with photographer Antony Armstrong-Jones in 1960. However, their marriage was full of allegations of infidelity. During a holiday in Mustique, when Princess Margaret was told that Armstrong-Jones was moving out of Kensington Palace, she said, as per Vanity Fair: Thank you, Nigel. I think thats the best news youve ever given me. The pair ended up getting divorced in 1978. Prince Charles and Princess Diana Three out of the four children of the late Queen Elizabeth II have divorced their partners, including King Charles III. The then Prince Charles and Princess Diana, Harrys parents, had a tumultuous relationship. Charles was in love with Camilla Parker Bowles, his now-wife, when he married Diana in July 1981. The prince and princess split in December 1992 and finally got divorced in 1996. Referring to Charles relationship with Camilla, Diana told BBC in an interview in 1995: There were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded. Just months after her divorce, Princess Diana and her then-partner Egyptian billionaire Dodi Fayed died in a car crash in Frances Paris on 30 August 1997. Princess Anne and Mark Phillips Queen Elizabeth IIs daughter Princess Anne married Captain Mark Phillips in 1973. At the time of her marriage, she fell for one of the palace equerries. As per Insider, the princess affair later became public causing a PR crisis. Princess Anne divorced Phillips in 1992 and went on to marry Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, reported Hello magazine. Andrew and Sarah Ferguson The disgraced royals marriage to Sarah Fergie Ferguson officially came to an end in 1996. The couple had already announced their split in 1992. According to Hello magazine, Andrew and Sarah, who are parents to Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, continue to have friendly relations. The other royals Lady Davina Windsor was the first British royal to marry a person of Maori descent Gary Christie Lewis in 2004. Lady Davina is the daughter of the late Queen Elizabeths first cousin, the Duke of Gloucester. In 2019, a spokesperson from Buckingham Palace confirmed the report of the couples separation to Hello magazine, saying in a brief statement: Lady Davina and Gary Lewis were divorced last year [2018]. Princess Margarets son David Armstrong-Jones and his wife Serena called it quits in February 2020, after 27 years of marriage, as per Cosmopolitan magazine. Princess Annes son Peter Phillips and his wife Autumn also announced their split in February 2020 and officially got divorced the next year. As per Cosmopolitan, their spokesperson said at the time: They continue to put the wellbeing and upbringing of their wonderful daughters Savannah and Isla first and foremost. Both Peter and Autumn are pleased to have resolved matters amicably with the children firmly at the forefront of those thoughts and decisions. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said in the United States that the Indian government used all its strength to stop his Bharat Jodo Yatra. Addressing the Indian diaspora at an event in San Francisco, Gandhi said Wednesday (31 May): The government used all its strength to stop the Bharat Jodo Yatra But nothing worked and the impact of the Yatra increased. Not only in India, but Bharat Jodo is an idea that is in all your hearts, the former Congress MP told the gathering. He also hailed the diaspora for showing Americans what it means to be Indian. I thank the Indian diaspora for holding up the Tricolour in America and showing Americans what it means to be an Indian. When Americans praise the contribution of Indians to their growth, it brings us all great pride. Gandhi is on a six-day trip to the US which will also take him to Washington DC and New York. Lets take a closer look at what is on his three-city tour agenda. Rahul Gandhi in the US The Congress leader is slated to meet technology executives from Silicon Valley to discuss artificial intelligence, as per The Quint report. He will also deliver a lecture at Californias Stanford University on The New Global Equilibrium. Gandhi will also interact with venture capitalists, academics, intellectuals and activists during his San Francisco trip, the report added. On the first two days of June, the 52-year-old former Wayanad MP will be visiting Washington DC. He will speak at National Press Club on 1 June on the future of Indian democracy, freedom of speech, and sustainable and inclusive economic growth, reported Indian Express. The politician will also meet members of several think tanks. His Washinton DC visit will also see Gandhi holding dialogue with lawmakers at Capitol Hill. As per PTI, the Congress leader is expected to attend a private dinner hosted by Indian-American entrepreneur Frank Islam at his mansion in the Potomac suburb of Washington DC. Scenes from @RahulGandhi jis interaction with the Indian diaspora in San Francisco, California, in the United States. pic.twitter.com/pQdEhwccm3 Congress (@INCIndia) May 31, 2023 In New York, Gandhi will interact with thinkers at Harvard Club on 3 June. The Congress leader is also scheduled to meet a number of famous Indian-Americans including comedian Hasan Minhaj, filmmaker Mira Nair, TV host Padma Lakshmi, actor Aziz Ansari and author Kiran Desai, reported The Quint. On the concluding day of his visit, 4 June, Gandhi will address the NRI community at the Javits Center. He will also hold talks with the Indian Overseas Congress members from across the US, as per Indian Express. ALSO READ: Rahul Gandhi to get new passport by Sunday Real democracy Before Gandhi kicked off his US visit, Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda said that the former MPs visit is aimed at endorsing the values of real democracy. The purpose of his (Gandhis) trip is to connect, interact and begin a new conversation with various individuals, institutions and media, including the Indian diaspora that is growing in numbers in the United States and abroad to promote the shared values and vision of the real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over, Pitroda said in a statement, according to PTI. The visit is also being viewed as Congress latest diaspora outreach. Speaking about how the idea for the six-day trip was conceived, Praveen Chakravarty, Congress Data Analytics department chairman and Rahul Gandhis close aide, told The Quint that it started when the Gandhi scion received an invitation from Stanford University last month to deliver a lecture. Chakravarty said while the origin of the visit was an invitation for an intellectual discussion, it became more about diaspora outreach, as well as meeting local think tanks, thinkers and academics to discuss global affairs. Notably, Gandhis trip has come just weeks before Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to arrive for a state visit to the White House. The other foreign visit In March, Gandhis remarks on his trip to the United Kingdom had sparked huge controversy in India, with the Narendra Modi-led BJP government accusing him of defaming India on foreign soil. During the London visit, Gandhi alleged that freedom of speech has been stifled in India since the BJP government came to power in 2014. The institutional framework that is required for democracy, Parliament, a free press, the judiciary these are all under attack. We are facing an attack on the basic structure of Indian democracy, the Congress leader had told a gathering at Cambridge University. Slamming Gandhi for his state of Indian democracy comments, several BJP ministers had demanded an apology. Days after his UK trip, Gandhi was disqualified as an MP after a Gujarat court convicted and announced a two-year sentence in a defamation case over his alleged Modi surname remark. BJP targets Rahul Gandhi The Congress leader has already attacked the BJP and RSS in San Francisco as well as claimed that poor and people from minority communities feel helpless today. Responding to a question from a member of the Bay Area Muslim community, Gandhi said, The way you (Muslims) are feeling attacked, I can guarantee Sikhs, Christians, Dalits, Tribals are feeling the same. What is happening to Muslims in India today happened to Dalits in the 1980s. The poor and people from minority communities feel helpless today. Indians do not believe in hating each other. A small group of people who control the system and the media are stoking the flames of hatred. : Shri @RahulGandhi in San Francisco, U.S pic.twitter.com/72JqXiLX0F Congress (@INCIndia) May 31, 2023 The BJP hit back at Gandhi, alleging he does not back down from insulting the country on his foreign trips. Speaking to the news agency ANI, Union minister Anurag Thakur said, Rahul Gandhi on his foreign trips wants to insult the Prime Minister but ends up insulting the country. He doesnt even consider India as a nation and calls it a union of states. He raises questions about Indias progress. What does he want to achieve on his foreign visits? Is mudslinging all that he has left to do? It remains to be seen how the rest of Gandhis US visit pans out and what waves it creates back home. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Its Day 462 of the Russia-Ukraine war. The two sides have been bitterly fighting one another, with no end in sight. For the Ukrainians, the war means explosions ringing out in the city, drones being heard overhead, air defences springing into action and residents hunkering in their houses praying they are not the ones to be struck. This was the situation, until Tuesday. This time building being struck and explosions being heard came from the Russian capital of Moscow as they say, the war has come home to Russia. On Tuesday morning, Russian authorities reported several drone attacks on the capital Moscow, damaging several residential buildings. Russias defence ministry called the incident a terrorist attack, saying eight drones had been spotted over the capital. However, independent media stated that the number of drones was much higher. The attack also prompted a reaction from Russias president Vladimir Putin. Speaking on Russian TV, the macho leader said the attack had been a response to what he described as a Russian attack on Ukraines military intelligence HQ in recent days. In response to this, the Kyiv regime chose a different path the path of attempts to intimidate Russia, to intimidate Russias citizens, and of air strikes against residential buildings. This is obviously a sign of terrorist activity. They are provoking us into responding in kind. We take a closer look at the attacks from where to whom and what may be the fallout of such activity in the ongoing war. What happened on Tuesday? As per Russian authorities, eight drones entered Moscows airspace, hitting a few buildings before being shot down by the citys air defences. Moscow said five of the drones were shot down and three were stopped with signal jamming technology causing them to lose control and miss their targets. However, the drones caused some damage hitting a residential building, a high-rise apartment block, and another high-rise building. None of the impacts caused significant damage or casualties. The drone strikes occurred in Rublyovka, a prestigious suburban area in Moscows southwest where oligarchs, politicians and top officials live in luxurious gated communities. The area is also very close to Putins Novo-Ogaryovo residence where the Russian leader is known to spend most of his time. Its important to note here that these strikes are different from any other that Russia has seen. This is because it struck what is known as Russias Beverly Hills. It has been rare for Moscow to be targeted by drones and especially where the rich and famous live. Rublyovka is reportedly the home to former president Dmitry Medvedev and the current prime minister, Mikhail Mishustin. Prior to this, two drones exploded over the Kremlin in early May in what Russian officials claimed was an assassination attempt on the life of Russian president Vladimir Putin. As residents of Rublyovka will vouch, this attack was unprecedented. It was like boom, boom, boom, in pretty quick succession. One of the blasts shook our house; it wasnt something we have experienced before, Andrei, a businessman residing in Barvikha village in the heart of Rublyovka, was quoted as telling The Guardian. Also read: How the US and its allies are helping Russia in the Ukraine war through Irans drones What drones were used? While theres no verified information about the drones used in the strikes, some reports claim that at least one of the drones was a UJ-22 produced by the Ukrainian Ukrjet company. But images from videos of the incident dont show the UJ-22; the drone pictured has a short set of wings at the front and larger ones to the rear. What was the reaction to the drone attack? Even as people in Moscow hunkered down during the strikes, it has prompted a barrage of reactions from Russian politicians and leaders. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the drones had caused minor damage to several buildings. In a series of posts on the Telegram messaging app, he said that two people sought medical attention and that there were no serious injuries. Head of the Russian private military company Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, however, viewed the attack with much anger. On his Telegram channel, he fumed at Russian officials, with whom he has had frequent public disagreements, saying: Stinking beasts, what are you doing? You are the Department of Defence. You didnt do a damn thing to step up. Why the f*** are you allowing these drones to fly to Moscow? The fact that they are flying to your homes in Rublyovka to hell with it! Let your houses burn. What will ordinary people do when explosive drones crash through their windows? he wrote further. Another Russian politician, Maxim Ivanov, claimed the Moscow drone strikes were the most serious assault on the capital since the Nazis, saying no citizen could now avoid the new reality. You will either defeat the enemy as a single fist with our Motherland, or the indelible shame of cowardice, collaboration and betrayal will engulf your family, he said. Lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein said that a new reality needs to be realised. Undoubtedly, the sabotage and terrorist attacks of Ukraine will only increase, he wrote on Telegram, and it is necessary to radically strengthen defence and security measures, especially in terms of countering drones. While Putin called it an attempt to frighten Russians, the foreign ministry said Western support for Kyiv was pushing the Ukrainian leadership towards ever more reckless criminal deeds including acts of terrorism. Ukraines western allies also reacted to the attack. A spokesperson for President Joe Bidens National Security Council said: As a general matter, we do not support attacks inside of Russia. We have been focused on providing Ukraine with the equipment and training they need to retake their own sovereign territory, and thats exactly what weve done. Also read: Stryker combat vehicles, Patriot missiles, Challenger 2 tanks and more: A breakdown of military aid promised to Ukraine The spokesperson noted that Tuesday was the 17th time this month that the Ukrainian capital had been hit by another Russian attack. UK foreign secretary James Cleverly said Ukraine has a right to project force beyond its own borders. Cleverlys comments came after he gave a speech in Estonia and he later clarified that his comments were general points, rather than on that specific incident. But was Ukraine behind the attack? Ukraine has refuted all Russian claims that the attacks came from Kyiv. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said that Kyiv was not directly involved, but that Ukraine had enjoyed watching events unfold and predicted an increase in such incidents. What is growing in Russia is the karmic payment that Russia will gradually pay in aggravated form for everything it does in Ukraine, he added. It is far from clear who is behind the attacks, but Dominic Waghorn writing for Sky News said that it was perfectly plausible that Russia had attacked its own capital. He explained that such an act would help alienate Western support for Kyiv. It would also help scare its own population, galvanising support against the enemy. What does this mean for the war? The drone attack in Moscow is a symbolic attack and undoubtedly an embarrassment to the Russian military. Following the attack, Putin said he intended to strengthen Moscows air defence systems in anticipation of further attacks. The attack is also being used to rally behind legislation giving the countrys military and security agencies more powers, including to counter drone attacks. Experts cite that this will also give rise to more attacks on both sides in the future. It also fuels anxiety about when Ukraine would launch its much-spoken about counter-offensive. As Andrei Kolesnikov, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, based in Moscow, noted that Tuesdays drone attack could have a tangible impact on Russias attitudes towards the fighting in Ukraine. If the drone attack turns out to be not just an isolated incident, it will serve as a reminder that the hostilities are already in the capital and that Putin is not all-powerful, he said to The Guardian, This may sway public opinion somewhat in favour of starting peace negotiations. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Nvidia on Tuesday became the first chipmaking company to enter the elite $1 trillion club. The past three trading sessions on Wall Street have seen Nvidia stock rise more than 31 per cent including a three per cent gain on Tuesday though its market cap soon fell below that $1 trillion mark. Apple, Alphabet, Microsoft and Amazon are all members of the $1 trillion club, while Meta is a former member. But why is the share price of Nvidia, a company famed for making graphics processing units (GPUs) favoured by hardcore gamers, zooming? Lets take a closer look: Experts say Nvidia is benefitting from the hype and craze surrounding Artificial Intelligence. The stocks value has tripled in less than eight months, reflecting the surge in interest in artificial intelligence following rapid advances in generative AI, which can engage in human-like conversation and craft everything from jokes to poetry. According to CNBC, the companys powerful chips are a favourite of researchers who use them to train and run advanced AI programmes. Training these programmes involves processing large amounts of data and performing complex mathematical computations. Nvidias GPUs excel in these tasks by efficiently handling parallel computations, which accelerates the training process, the piece noted. Another piece in CNBC stated that Nvidias GPUs a key component of OpenAIs ChatGPT and Googles Bard. The Verge in a piece said that AI tools comprised the majority of recent Google I/O and Microsoft Build presentations, and noted Nvidias status as a key supplier for such tech companies. CNBC said all the tech giants have entered the AI race with budgets of tens of billions of dollars. A meaningful part of this spend will go to companies like Nvidia, which sell these chips supporting all this AI development, the piece stated. A piece in Indian Express stated that Nvidia has a lock on the market share for GPUs globally a lead which is unlikely to wane in the near future. The piece quoted experts as saying Nvidia is way ahead of its competitors due to its proprietary software. It quoted Huang as saying, You have to engineer all of the software and all of the libraries and all of the algorithms, integrate them into and optimise the frameworks, and optimise it for the architecture, not just one chip but the architecture of an entire data centre. The Verge also said that timing is playing a big part in Nvidias surge. The frenzy surrounding ChatGPT had hit a peak when the company presented its latest report in February, Company CEO Jensen Huang also pointed to the companys data center growth, and the latest report showing a new record in data center revenue. Most important company on planet Nvidia has gained about 200 per cent since October, far outpacing any other member of the broad-market S&P 500 index. The rally has propelled its valuation past its peers, but some analysts say the AI boom means the stock should still be worth more. We view Nvidia as the most important company on the planet in an era that is rapidly changing towards one that will be emphasized by greater AI capabilities, CFRA Research analyst Angelo Zino said. The latest surge furthers a rally from last week, which was jump-started by a revenue forecast that surpassed the mean Wall Street estimate by more than 50 per cent, which some analysts called unfathomable and cosmological. The highest price target values the company at about $1.6 trillion, on par with Google-parent Alphabet. Nvidias forward price-to-earnings multiple (P/E), a common benchmark for valuing stocks, is 47.23. The figure is significantly above that of peers Qualcomm (QCOM.O) and Intel (INTC.O) and also tops the sector median of 18.09, according to Refinitiv data. While the companys valuation looks lofty at the moment, we think Nvidia has the earnings firepower as the adoption of its AI GPU remains in the very early innings, Kinngai Chan, senior research analyst at Summit Insights Group, said. Shares are underpriced Big Tech companies have shifted focus to AI, hoping the technology will attract demand. The computers that power generative AI run on powerful chips called graphics processing units (GPUs) of which 80 per cent are produced by Nvidia, according to analysts. OpenAI-owned ChatGPTs rapid success has prompted tech giants such as Alphabet and Microsoft to make the most of generative AI. Nvidia, led by Huang, has pivoted to the data center market over the last few years after years as a powerhouse in videogame chips. The companys business rapidly expanded during the pandemic when gaming took off, cloud adoption surged and crypto enthusiasts turned to its chips for mining coins. Huangs bet on AI is expected to fuel growth in the coming months. Despite the sky-high valuation, analysts believe Nvidias AI chips business has room for growth as generative AI technology is still at a nascent stage with wide adoption expected in the years to come. Last week alone, Nvidias shares rose about 25 per cent, sparking a rally in AI-related stocks and boosting other chipmakers. That helped the Philadelphia SE Semiconductor index (.SOX) close at its highest in over a year on Friday. Technical traders and AI mania have pushed Nvidia toward the $1 trillion cap and it is not inexpensive, Argus Research analyst Jim Kelleher said. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. A New Zealand airline is actually inviting passengers to weigh in before take-off. CNN reported that Air New Zealand, the countrys national carrier, will be weighing international passengers leaving from Auckland from 31 May to 2 July. Lets take a closer look: Why is this happening? Air New Zealand told the News.com.Au that the survey is mandated by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). According to CNN, the goal of the programme is to collect information on weight loads and how they are distributed across planes. We weigh everything that goes on the aircraft from the cargo to the meals onboard, to the luggage in the hold, Alastair James, the airlines load control improvement specialist was quoted as saying by CNN. For customers, crew and cabin bags, we use average weights, which we get from doing this survey, James explained. This is known as assumed mass as per The Independent. According to News.com.Au, the data will help the airline work out the average weight of passengers when calculating the weight and balance of the craft vital information pilots need prior to take-off. The Week quoted the CAA as saying the survey is essential to ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the aircraft. How does this work? Passengers will be requested to weigh in at the entrance of select gate lounges of Air New Zealand flights leaving Auckland International Airport, as per News.Com.Au. According to Simple Flying, two scales will be kept at the terminal for the passenger and their baggage. The airline is even offering candy as an incentive for passengers to weigh themselves. James also said there is no need for passengers to worry about privacy. The weight, while being recorded, will not be visibly on any screen. We know stepping on the scales can be daunting. We want to reassure our customers there is no visible display anywhere. No one can see your weight not even us! Its simple, its voluntary, and by weighing in, youll be helping us to fly you safely and efficiently, every time, James told News.com.Au. The scales do not display the weight as this is fed directly into a computer and recorded anonymously along with thousands of other passengers, the airline told NPR. According to NPR, anyone not wishing to have their weight taken can simply say so and skip the step. New Zealand Air told News.Com.Au that at least 10,000 passengers were required to take part in the survey. The survey is carried out every few years, as per The Week. The previous survey was carried out in 2015, as per Simply Flying. The latest international survey was deferred due to travel restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Cleveland.com. If they had their way, airlines would love to weigh passengers as they get on the planes, but it would be too embarrassing, science writer Brian Clegg previously told NPR. In fact, they actually used to do it in the very early days of flight. How will this help? According to the Independent, gathering data about the weight of passengers can help make flying safer and reduce harm to the environment. This, as the flight load will be figured out on actual data rather than the estimated weight of passengers. The US Federal Aviation Administration website states that the weight of the plane affects everything from its climb rate to cruising altitude, speed and even its maneuverability. Most modern aircraft are so designed that, when all seats are occupied, the baggage compartment is full, and all fuel tanks are full, the aircraft is grossly overloaded, the FAA says. If maximum range is required, occupants or baggage must be left behind, the FAA says, or if the maximum load must be carried, the range, dictated by the amount of fuel on board, must be reduced. This isnt the first time Air New Zealand has conducted such a survey. In 2021, the airline weighed passengers who were travelling domestically. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Allahabad High Court dismissed a civil revision plea moved by the Anjuman Intazamia Mosque Committee (AIMC) that has challenged a Varanasi Court order dismissing its objection to the maintainability of Hindu Worshippers suit seeking permission to regularly worship Shringar Gauri and other deities inside the Gyanvapi Mosque compound. The Anjuman Intazamia Mosque Committee (which manages the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi). The High Court has rejected AIMCs challenge to the five Hindu women worshippers suit pending before the Varanasi court. It is a historic verdict. The court clearly has said that Anjuman Intezamia Mosque Committees petition is not maintainable and dismissed it, advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side in the Gyanvapi mosque case said. Hari Shankar Jain, advocate also representing the Hindu side, said: I hope that the day is not far when we will construct a grand Shiv temple there and the present structure will be removed. In December last year, the bench of Justice JJ Munir reserved its judgment after hearing counsels for both parties at length. With its todays decision, the High Court has upheld the September 12, 2022 order of the Varanasi court holding the said suit to be maintainable. In October last year, the Masjid Committee had moved the High Court, challenging a September 12 order of the Varanasi court which held as maintainable the suit filed by five Hindu women seeking worshipping rights within the mosque complex. In its September 12, the Varanasi court had rejected the mosque committees plea against the maintainability of the plea seeking right for daily worship of Hindu deities whose idols are situated in an outer wall of the Gyanvapi mosque. The Hindu women worshippers (plaintiffs) had moved a suit before the Varanasi Court essentially seeking a right to worship Shringar Gauri on the outer wall of the mosque complex located next to the Kashi Vishwanath temple. They claimed that the present Mosque premises was once a Hindu temple and it was demolished by Mughal Ruler Aurangzeb and thereafter, the present mosque structure was built there. With inputs from LiveLaw Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Senior Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit said on Wednesday that he will support the ordinance against the Delhi government that was promulgated by the centre recently to create a National Capital Civil Service Authority for the transfer of and disciplinary proceedings against Group-A officers from the DANICS cadre. Dikshit stated that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is well aware that he will be jailed for at least 810 years if he does not gain control over the vigilance department. The centre had issued an ordinance a week after the Supreme Court handed over the control of services in the national capital to the Delhi government. I support the ordinance against the Delhi government. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal is very well aware that if he does not get control of the vigilance department, he will be sent to jail for at least 8-10 years, he said. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will meet his Tamil Nadu and Jharkhand counterparts to drum up support in opposing the central ordinance on control over administrative services in the national capital. Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (June 1) to seek DMKs support against Centres unconstitutional-undemocratic Anti-Delhi Ordinance, he tweeted on Wednesday. Day after tomorrow, June 2, I will meet Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren in Ranchi. Will seek his support against the ordinance promulgated by Modi government against the people of Delhi, he said in another tweet. The Centre had on May 19 promulgated the ordinance to create an authority for the transfer and posting of Group-A officers in Delhi, which the AAP government had called a deception with the Supreme Court verdict on control of services. The Centre will have to bring a bill in Parliament to replace the ordinance within six months of its promulgation. Transfer and postings of all officers of the Delhi government were under the executive control of the lieutenant governor before the top courts May 11 verdict. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief leader Uddhav Thackeray, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have so far extended their support to the AAP. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar as well as his deputy Tejaswi Yadav and RJD leader have also supported Kejriwal in the matter. The AAP national convenor has requested for time to meet Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi to seek their support against the ordinance. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Days after the brutal murder of a minor girl by 20-year-old Sahil in northwest Delhis Shahbad Dairy, the Delhi Police on Wednesday recreated the scene of crime at the same bylane, officials said. The girl, 16, was stabbed over 20 times and then bludgeoned with a cement slab, killing her on the spot. She was found to have 34 injury marks on her body and her skull was smashed in. Sahil was arrested from Bulandshahar in Uttar Pradesh on Monday. He was taken to the spot in the early hours of Wednesday, the police said. Due to security concerns, Sahil was taken to the spot in the early hours of Wednesday morning. We recreated the scene of the crime to understand and establish the sequence of events and how he executed the crime and what he did thereafter, a senior police officer. Sahil allegedly threw away the knife used to kill Sakshi into the bushes in Rithala. It is yet to be recovered, he said. The police had earlier said Sahil got drunk on Sunday afternoon and in the evening confronted Sakshi, who was on her way to the birthday party of her friends child after changing clothes in a public convenience. After killing her, Sahil went to a nearby park and sat there for a while. Later, he went to the metro station at Rithala where he claimed to have thrown the knife in the nearby bushes. He then took a bus to Bulandshahr from the Anand Vihar ISBT, the police said. A call to his home led to his arrest. On Tuesday, Sahil was produced at a Delhi court here which sent him in police remand for two days. (With inputs from PTI) Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. In the latest development, the Delhi police has disclosed that Sahil Khan, the perpetrator responsible for the brutal murder of 16-year-old Sakshi on Sunday night, exhibits a clear inclination towards criminal activities. Alongside his local accomplices, Sahil has been involved in numerous instances of assaulting individuals over trivial matters. Police sources are currently investigating further into his criminal record. Reportedly, the authorities are interrogating Sahil about his previous criminal endeavours while he is in police custody. Thus far, he has only admitted to cases of assault, which are currently undergoing verification by the Delhi police. Sources indicate that the accused has affiliations with a local gang known as the Shri Krishna group. Additionally, when Sahil was a minor, he had even discharged a firearm at a young man. However, due to his status as a minor at that time, the police were unable to file a case against him. An anonymous police officer, who is involved in the investigation of the Sakshi murder case, revealed that two years ago, Sahil, residing in JJ Colony D Block, Street Number Five in the Shahbad Dairy area, carried out a similar attack on another individual. Despite surviving the assault with 14 stitched wounds, the victim only managed to file a weak complaint with the police against Sahil. Following this incident, Sahil and his family vacated their residence in JJ Colony and relocated to Jain Colony. Regarding the narrative surrounding the sacred Hindu thread, during the course of interrogation, Sahil informed the police that his mother had been terminally ill for some time. As a result, an acquaintance had advised him to wear a kalava (a sacred Hindu thread) on his hand and a Rudraksha garland around his neck for good luck. Police officers assert that Sahils statements are not being fully trusted until they can be independently verified. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. After ruthlessly stabbing 16-year-old Sakshi to death in the Shahbad Dairy area, Sahil sought refuge in his aunts house located in the village of Aterna, under the jurisdiction of the Pahasu police station. Based on interviews with the aunt and other relatives of Sahil, it was revealed that she was left paralyzed with shock upon learning about her nephews heinous act and subsequently fainted. Shamim, also known as Shammo, reportedly came across the distressing video of her nephews monstrous deed and expressed that he should meet the same fate as Sakshi. According to a report from Jagran media, Shammo stated that she would no longer visit her maternal home and sever all ties with those who engage in such actions. She also vowed not to allow her children. Shammo further mentioned that if she had been aware that Sahil had arrived at her house after killing someones daughter, she would have refused to provide him even a meal in the morning. Aman, Shammos second son, informed local reporters that Sahil arrived at their home around four oclock on Monday morning. When questioned about his presence, Sahil mentioned that he had traveled to Bulandshahr with friends for a wedding and decided to visit his aunt and Aman before returning home. However, Sahil unexpectedly insisted on staying and eventually fell asleep in one of the rooms. He woke up around eight oclock in the morning and contacted his relatives on his mobile phone, informing them that he was at his aunts house. Reportedly, Sahil went back to sleep after having tea and biscuits. He woke up again around 12 oclock, had a meal, and fell asleep once more. At around 3 oclock, two policemen entered the house and inquired about Sahils presence. Aman informed the policemen that Sahil was sleeping in one of the rooms. Subsequently, one of the policemen took out a pistol, held it hesitantly, and said to Sahil, If you are done sleeping, lets go to Delhi, as reported by local media. Later, the police took Sahil to the police station and then transported him to Delhi. In the meantime, there has been a significant outcry among social media users, demanding the death penalty for Sahil. Must Read: Delhi Murder Case: Sahil is criminal-minded, shot a man, member of local gang Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Page Content The current plan of approach is the result of the political agreement reached between Aruba, Curacao, and Sint Maarten, individually with the Netherlands in 2020, which includes long-term financial assistance to the Caribbean countries for measures to be taken to strengthen their border security. In addition to making structural funds available to the countries for support by the Customs the Netherlands, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee and the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard, the Netherlands will also make incidental resources available for investments in equipment, personnel and facilities of the border agencies. In her opening remarks to the attendees of the conference Minister Richardson extended a warm welcome to the Progress Committee that has been assigned to monitor the implementation of the plan of approach. The Progress Committee brings together individuals from Sint Maarten and the Netherlands with diverse backgrounds and expertise in border control, immigration, law enforcement and other related fields. The Committee consist of members from law enforcement agencies on Sint Maarten which are Customs, Immigration and Border Protection Services (IBPS), the Police Force of Sint Maarten as well as members from law enforcement agencies in the Netherlands which are Customs the Netherlands, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee, along with representatives from the Ministry of Justice and Security and the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations. In addressing the Committee, Minister Richardson emphasized the importance of increasing collaboration between the border agencies to address Sint Maartens challenges at the border and expressed the hope that the Progress Committees knowledge and expertise will significantly contribute to a comprehensive assessment of the countrys border security challenges and opportunities. On Monday May 21, 2023, Minister of Justice Anna E. Richardson officially opened the two-day Start Conference Strengthening Border Control which was held in the conference room of the Simpson Bay Resort. The Start Conference marked the official beginning of the implementation of the plan of approach for Sint Maarten aimed at further bolstering the countrys border security.During the first day of the conference the Committee engaged in fruitful discussions with the border agencies, who gave a presentation on the current state of affairs and the progress that was made since Sint Maarten signed its first border protocol with the Netherlands back in 2018. On the second day of the conference the Committee embarked on a series of site visits to several operations carried out by the border agencies. The purpose of these visits was to directly gather firsthand information regarding the measures that have been implemented and those that are planned, to enhance border security. The site visits culminated with a tour of the Airport Terminal Reconstruction project from which once completed, the border agencies will also operate in the future. The new Parliament building, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 28, represents the democratic governance of India, showcases its architectural prowess on a global platform and serves as a symbol of Indias political power and influence, as per ChatGPT. Besides inaugurating the new Parliament building, PM Modi on Sunday installed the sacred Sengol in the Lok Sabha chamber, right next to the Speakers chair, after performing puja. What does Indias new Parliament building signify? we asked ChatGPT. To this, the artificial intelligence chatbot gave a detailed reply both in terms of symbolism and practical significance. This is what ChatGPT had to say: Indias new Parliament building signifies several things, both in terms of symbolism and practical significance. Here are some key aspects: Democratic Governance: The new Parliament building represents the democratic governance of India. It serves as the center for legislative activities, where elected representatives gather to debate and make decisions on behalf of the citizens. The building symbolizes the strength and continuity of Indias democratic system. National Identity: The architecture and design of the new Parliament building are expected to incorporate elements that reflect Indias rich cultural heritage and diversity. It represents the countrys identity and showcases its architectural prowess on a global platform. Modernization and Progress: The construction of a new Parliament building reflects Indias aspiration for modernization and progress. The existing Parliament House, built during the British colonial era, has limitations in terms of space and infrastructure. The new building aims to provide advanced facilities, including state-of-the-art technology, improved seating arrangements, and enhanced amenities for lawmakers. Symbol of Power: The new Parliament building also serves as a symbol of Indias political power and influence. Its construction demonstrates the countrys commitment to strengthening its institutions and providing a conducive environment for effective governance. Public Engagement: The new building is expected to incorporate public spaces and visitor facilities, allowing greater public engagement and interaction with the legislative process. This inclusion signifies transparency, accessibility, and the involvement of citizens in democratic affairs. Its important to note that the symbolism and significance of the new Parliament building can be interpreted in various ways, and opinions may differ among different individuals and groups. PM Modi said the new Parliament building was a reflection of the aspirations of New India and a testament to the dawn of a self-reliant nation. As India surges ahead, the new Parliament building will also contribute to the worlds progress, he noted. The new Parliament building will be a testament to the dawn of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). It will be a witness to our journey towards a Viksit Bharat (developed India), Modi said at the event. (With inputs from agencies) Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative of the Indian government seems to have achieved a significant milestone with Indias defence exports reaching an all-time high during the financial year 2022-23. According to a statement by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, defence exports by India surged from Rs 686 crore in FY 2013- 14 to nearly Rs 16,000 crore in FY 2022-23. This is a jaw-dropping 23-fold jump in defence exports over nine years. The statement went on to add that 100 Indian companies are engaged in the export of defence products. The weapons platforms exported by India include the BrahMos missile, PINAKA rockets and launchers, the Dornier-228 aircraft, artillery guns, armoured vehicles, radars and simulators among others. Along with the rise in defence exports, Indian imports of weapons and other defence equipment has also seen a decline in recent years. According to Sweden-based think tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), defence imports by India fell by 11% during the five-year period between FY 201317 and FY 201822. However, despite this decline, India continues to remain the worlds largest arms importer. Data released by SIPRI revealed that India is the biggest weapons export market for Russia, France and Israel. Indias tensions with Pakistan and China largely drive its demand for arms imports. With an 11% share of total global arms imports, India was the worlds biggest importer of major arms in 201822, a position it has held for the period 19932022. It retained this position even though its arms imports dropped by 11% between 201317 and 201822, SIPRI said in a statement. The decrease can be attributed to several factors including Indias slow and complex arms procurement process, efforts to diversify its arms suppliers, and attempts to replace imports with major arms that are designed and produced domestically, the statement added. Meanwhile, between FY 201317 and FY 201822, Pakistans imports of arms climbed by 14% and accounted for 3.7% of the global total. In FY 201822, 77% of Pakistans defence imports came from China. Overall, exports of armaments by the United States (US) climbed from 33% to 40% while shipments by Russia decreased from 22% to 16%. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Inspired by The Kerala Story, a Mumbai-based model has come out to claim how she was allegedly fooled into a relationship by a Muslim man, who had assumed a Hindu identity and was pressuring her to convert to Islam and marry him. The accused owns a modelling agency in Jharkhands Ranchi and the two had, according to the complainant, come in contact while she was looking for modelling opportunities. The complainant is a resident of Bihar. The accused has been identified as Tanveer Akhtar, who ostensibly adopted the identity of Yash, the proprietor of Yash Modelling Company in Ranchi. The complainant, Manvi Raj, a resident of Bihar, has claimed that she encountered the accused when she came to Ranchi in 2020 in search of career opportunities. Tanveer Akhtar displayed a fondness for her that soon developed into friendship. However, Manvi alleges that the owner had ulterior motives. Four months later, he expressed his desire to marry Manvi, revealing his true identity as Tanveer Akhtar Khan. Upon discovering that the person she had grown close to over the past few months was, in fact, Tanveer Akhtar Khan, and not Yash, Manvi ended the relationship. Manvi claims that the breakup did not sit well with Akhtar, who doubled down on his insistence to marry her and convert to his religion. Upon rejection, Manvi alleges, Akhtar resorted to blackmail, threatening to share inappropriate pictures of her on social media if she did not budge. Eventually, she grew tired of the situation and moved to Mumbai. Tanveer, allegedly consumed by unrequited love, did not stop and followed Manvi to Mumbai. She claims that, in an attempt to further intimidate her, Akhtar sent her pictures to her family. Manvi also alleges that he stalked her on social media and, when his efforts failed, attempted to harm her. On May 29th, Manvi approached the police and filed a complaint against Tanveer at the Versova Police Station in Mumbai. Apology and Confession After the matter came to the attention of the police, Tanveer reportedly admitted to his crime and requested that the victim withdraw the First Information Report (FIR). The complainant claims that Tanveer gave an affidavit, confessing to harassing her. However, he claimed that his intention was not to harm her, but to create pressure so that they could be together. According to the Mumbai Police, Tanveer Akhtar has been charged under sections 376(2)(N), 328, 506, 504, 323 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and section 67 of the Information Technology (IT) Act. Kishor Kaushal, SSP Ranchi, said, The woman lodged a complaint with Mumbai Police at Versova Police Station on May 29. Since the incident occurred in Ranchi, the case has been transferred to the Ranchi Police. We have registered an FIR, and investigation is underway. Appropriate action will be taken. In response, Tanveer has refuted all allegations made against him. He claimed, Manvi used to work with me. However, my business suffered losses due to her, so I sought compensation from her. Since then, she has been blackmailing me to implicate me. Tanveer further alleged that Manvi has a boyfriend named Ravjot Singh, who, along with a friend, blackmailed him after stealing data from his mobile phone. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will visit the India-Myanmar border town of Moreh in Manipurs Tengnoupal district on Wednesday. He will meet Kuki civil society groups and review the security measures in place. Amit Shah arrived in Imphal on Monday night. He will visit Kangpokpi district in the afternoon, and will meet various groups there as well, Army sources told PTI. Meanwhile, incidents of gunfight between militants and security forces were reported from Sugnu in Kakching district overnight, officials said. Firing also took place at Sagolmang in Imphal East where a civilian was injured in an attack by militants, they said. As part of his mission to broker a lasting peace in the troubled state, Shah met a cross-section of Kuki and Meitei leaders on Tuesday, besides top security officers to seek a solution to the spate of ethnic clashes that have rocked the state. He also held an all-party meeting in the evening. Shah is accompanied by Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Director of the Intelligence Bureau Tapan Kumar Deka on the trip. Ethnic clashes broke out in the state nearly a month ago after a Tribal Solidarity March was organised in the hill districts to protest the Meitei communitys demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. After a relative lull for over a fortnight, the state witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes, and gunfight between militants and security forces on Sunday. So far, over 80 people have been killed in the violence, according to officials. (With inputs from PTI) Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who flew into Imphal on Monday night, visited the India-Myanmar border town of Moreh in Manipur on Wednesday and met Kuki civil society groups, besides reviewing security measures in place. Also, he visited Kangpokpi district in the afternoon, and met various groups there as well, officials said. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri @AmitShah met with a Kuki delegation in Moreh, Manipur, today, Union Home Ministry Spokesperson tweeted. He also met with the representatives of different communities including the handful of Tamil traders who live in Moreh, the official said in a separate post on the microblogging site. Held a meeting with the delegations of Kuki and other communities at Moreh. They expressed strong support for the governments initiatives to restore normalcy in Manipur, Shah said. Shah also held a security review meeting at Moreh in Tengnoupal district with the officials from various central and state forces, he added. Took stock of the security situation with senior officials in Moreh (Manipur), Shah tweeted. He was accompanied by Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Director of the Intelligence Bureau Tapan Kumar Deka on the trip. Chief Minister N Biren Singh however was not present at these meetings. As part of his mission to broker a lasting peace in the troubled state, Shah met a cross-section of Kuki and Meitei leaders on Tuesday, besides top security officers to seek a solution to the spate of ethnic clashes that have rocked the state. He also held an all-party meeting in the evening. Ethnic clashes broke out in the state nearly a month ago after a Tribal Solidarity March was organised in the hill districts to protest the Meitei communitys demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. After a relative lull for over a fortnight, the state witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes, and gunfight between militants and security forces on Sunday. So far, over 80 people have been killed in the violence, according to officials. (With inputs from PTI) Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal arrived in New Delhi for his four-day visit to India on Wednesday. Upon arrival, he received a warm welcome from Union Minister Meenakashi Lekhi. The External Affairs Ministry tweeted, PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship. PM Prachanda will hold meetings with President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. Apart from official business, the leader will also pay a visit to the holy towns of Ujjain and Indore in Madhya Pradesh. Confirming the arrival of Nepal Prime Minister Prachanda in the national capital, the Ambassador of Nepal to India, Shankar P Sharma wrote on Twitter on Monday and said, Rt. Honble Prime Minister Shri Pushpa Kamal Dahal has arrived in New Delhi on a four-day official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. PM Dahal was warmly received at the airport by MoS Smt. @M_Lekhi. Rt. Honble Prime Minister Shri Pushpa Kamal Dahal has arrived in New Delhi on a four-day official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. PM Dahal was warmly received at the airport by MoS Smt. @M_Lekhi. @cmprachanda @narendramodi @MofaNepal @EONIndia pic.twitter.com/d3rnTPP2bB Dr. Shankar P Sharma (@DrShankarSharma) May 31, 2023 This has marked Dahals first official foreign trip since he assumed office in December 2022. He has previously visited India thrice during his earlier tenures. Indias foreign ministry said in a statement earlier, The visit continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between India and Nepal in furtherance of our Neighbourhood First policy. The bilateral relations between the two countries have significantly strengthened in the last few years in all areas of cooperation. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Rahul Gandhi had another foot in mouth moment during his three-day tour to the US. His visit that began on Tuesday aims at promoting shared values and a vision of real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over. However, responding to a question from Bay Area Muslim community, the Congress leader claimed that what is happening to Muslims in India today happened to Dalits in 1980s. Question posed to Rahul Gandhi At an event, a person from Muslim community of Bay Area, Mohammad Khan, asked Rahul: Muslims have the security threat today it was never before There are so many different laws which are getting implemented that were not there earlier Muslim children are being put in jail for the crimes which they have not committed. What strategy will you adopt or what hope you are giving to Indian Muslims which is going to change the whole thing to the point where we were and get back to the normal stream to develop India. Rahul Gandhis response Rahul responded to the question with a line that he has used on several occasions. He said, The best way for me to explain that is the line nafrat ke bazaar mein mohabbat ki dukaan'(a shop of love in the market of hate). It is felt most strongly by the Muslim community because it is done most directly to them. But, infact, it is done to all minorities. I can guarantee you Sikhs, Christians, Dalits, tribal are feeling the same thing. Infact, anybody who is poor in India today, when he looks at the extreme wealth that the limited number of people have, in some way he feels the same thing that you feel, that what is going on? How is it that these five people have lakhs of crores and I have nothing to eat, the Congress leader said. You (Muslims) feel at most because it is directed at you most aggressively, but there is a phenomenon that is taking place against everybody in India. You cannot cut hatred with hatred, the Congress leader said I was surprised at how easy it was to erase hatred in India, he added. #WATCH| Congress Rahul Gandhi in response to a question from Bay Area Muslim community says, The way you (Muslims) are feeling attacked,I can guarantee Sikhs,Christians,Dalits,Tribals are feeling the same. What is happening to Muslims in India today happened to Dalits in pic.twitter.com/sukYLT9Ctp ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 "Indians don't believe in hating and killing each other. There is a small group of people who have got control of the system and media and are fully supported by big money," claimed Rahul. Indian Muslims in same situation as Dalits in 1980s "What is happening to the Muslim community in India today, happened to the Dalit community in 1980s. If you went to Uttar Pradesh during 80s, what is happening with Muslims now was happening with the Dalits. So periodically these type of stuff happens and we have to challenge and fight it and fight it with affection not hatred," he said. But a gentle reminder for Rahul who in a way stole the show in the US but made a major faux pas. Don't Miss: Watch: Rahul Gandhi gets taste of his own medicine as Khalistanis heckle down his muhabbat ki dukaan at US event Rahul's grandmother Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister of India followed by his father Rajiv Gandhi from 1980 to 1989, the period which he spoke about in his speech in the US on Wednesday. It was Congress party, which was at the Centre when according to Rahul "Dalits witnessed the same situation as India Muslims are facing currently." 'Rahul Gandhi insults India during foreign visits' The BJP reacted strongly against Rahul's statement in the US. Union Minister Anurag Thakur said, "During his foreign visits, Rahul Gandhi insults India." "Prime Minister Narendra Modi Modi met almost 24 PMs and Presidents of the world and held over 50 meetings during his foreign visit recently and when the Australian PM said that 'PM Modi is the Boss', Rahul Gandhi could not digest this," Thakur said. The BJP leader slammed Rahul for his statement in the US and said, "The period referred to by Rahul in his speech where he said Dalits were tortured, it was Congress's government at the Centre as well as Uttar Pradesh. It appears that Rahul wanted to go abroad and tell them Dalits and minorities were tortured." #WATCH | During his foreign visits, Rahul Gandhi insults India. PM Modi met almost 24 PMs and Presidents of the world & held over 50 meetings during his foreign visit recently and when the Australian PM said that 'PM Modi is the Boss', Rahul Gandhi could not digest this: Union pic.twitter.com/8A1jm4DiAd ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 The Union minister said the agenda of the Modi government is overall development unlike Congress. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Sakshis brutal murder by her alleged boyfriend Sahil in Delhis Shahbad Dairy area was premeditated and not a crime of passion as earlier suspected, said police. As per cops, the 20-year-old accused had planned over three days before killing the minor Hindu girl on Sunday evening. The trigger was a verbal spat between the two last Thursday, a Hindustan Times report mentioned a police officer involved in the Sakshi murder case probe as saying. A new video of Sahil which went viral on Tuesday showed him waiting for Sakshi in the same lane where he stabbed her 16 times with a knife, kicked her mercilessly and bludgeoned her head with a blunt object Also Read: Watch what just happened moments before Sahil brutally killed 16-year-old Sakshi According to police, Sahil had been stalking the girl for several days and on Sunday, he waited for her in the lane where one of her friends lived. He went up to her the moment she stepped out from a public toilet and stabbed her multiple times with a knife. The girl had used the public toilet to change her clothes to attend a friends sons birthday party. The brutality did not end, as Sahil then pounded Sakshis body with a stone slab and kicked her incessantly. The incident took place in a busy street of northwest Delhi, closer to Rohini, and none of the passerby came for the minor girls rescue. Sahil got knife from Haridwar The police informed that the knife Sahil used to kill Sakshi was bought from Haridwar in Uttarakhand. The cops quoted in HT report said that it was not immediately clear when or why he had purchased it. Held a grudge The report quoted special commissioner of police (law and order), Dependra Pathak, saying: Sahil told police that since their confrontation on Thursday, where the girl allegedly insulted him, he held a grudge against her. Dont Miss: Delhi Murder Case: Sahils relative says he must meet Sakshis fate, will sever all relations The police officer said that a watertight case is being built to ensure Sahil is given the harshest punishment. He also said that investigators will soon reconstruct the crime scene. Where did Sahil go after killing his girlfriend? During his interrogation, Sahil said that after the murder, he went to Rithala Metro station, where he dumped the knife. He then took a Metro to Anand Vihar to take a bus to his aunts home in Uttar Pradeshs Bulandshahr. Sahil was arrested from his aunts house on Monday. A court in Delhi, on Tuesday, has sent him on two-day police remand. Search is on to find the knife used in the murder. The police have, however, seized his phone and have also accessed chats between him and Sakshi to establish if they communicated in the days leading to the murder. Why Sahil killed his girlfriend? As per reports, Sahil and Sakshi were allegedly in a relationship for couple of years. However, earlier this month, the girl decided to call it off. Sahil was angry as Sakshi was ignoring him over the last fortnight. On Thursday, Sahil had confronted her infront of her friends and demanded her to get back into a relationship, but she rebuffed him and even her friends threatened to beat him up. Sahil couldnt accept that the girl had broken up with him. On Thursday, he met her and was adamant that she resumes their relationship. When the girl refused, Sahil began abusing her in front of three of her friends, the report quoted Pathak as saying. Sahil was even raged after he founder another mans name tattooed on Sakshis hand. Sakshi became friends with another man The Hindustan Times report quoted another investigator aware of the case saying that Sakshi and Sahil met for the first time in Shahbad Dairy about two years ago. They became friends and began meeting each other at the homes of the two of the girls friends in the same neighbourhood. A fortnight ago, the Sakshi broke up with Sahil, and resumed her friendship with another man from the same neighbourhood, the officer said. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Union Minister Amit Shah has directed security forces in Manipur to take stern and prompt actions to prevent violence and recover looted weapons to bring back normalcy at the earliest. Shah, who is currently on a four-day visit to the violence-hit state of Manipur, held long discussions with civil organisations and security forces and reviewed the situation on the ground. A statement by the home ministry said, Home Minister held a security review meeting with top officials in Imphal. He directed them to take stern and prompt actions to prevent violence, against armed miscreants and recover looted weapons to bring back normalcy at the earliest. The Home Minister also met a delegation of the Hill tribal council, Kuki Students Organisation, Kuki Chiefs Association, Tamil Sangam, Gorkha Samaj and Manipuri Muslim council in Moreh today. The delegates expressed willingness to support the central government in pacifying Manipur. Civil society organisations like the Committee on Tribal Unity, Kuki Inpi Manipur, Kuki Student organisation and Thadou Inpi met the home minister in Kangpokpi earlier today. Shah assured them of the supply of essential items in hill areas and helicopter services for emergency needs in Churachandpur, Moreh and Kangpokpi will be ensured. Visited a relief camp in Kangpokpi and met the Kuki community members there. We are committed to restoring peace in Manipur as early as possible and ensuring their return to their homes. pic.twitter.com/qVshPmbxFD Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 31, 2023 He also met with the representatives of different communities including the handful of Tamil traders who live in Moreh, the official said in a separate post on the microblogging site. Held a meeting with the delegations of Kuki and other communities at Moreh. They expressed strong support for the governments initiatives to restore normalcy in Manipur, Shah said. Shah also held a security review meeting at Moreh in Tengnoupal district with the officials from various central and state forces. During a high-level meeting in Imphal, Shah said, Our resolve remains focused on leading Manipur back to the track of peace and harmony once again and their return to their homes at the earliest. The Home Minister also reviewed the security situation with senior officials of the Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces and the Indian Army. In the meeting with security personnel, Shah said, Peace and prosperity of Manipur is our top priority. He instructed the officials to strictly deal with any activities disturbing the peace of the state. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. United States Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti, on Tuesday, said that America did not mention India a country of particular concern. So this is an independent commission, part of the government thats not the State Department. But it did not actually call India a country of particular concern, Envoy Garcetti said in an exclusive interview with ANI. It did highlight incidents as we could highlight in countries such as our own, where theres intolerance and where we need to stand together to make sure that people of every religious background feel that they belong and feel that their rights are respected. So we will always stand up for those values, but more importantly, engage with our Indian counterparts from a place of humility about where we can make sure that people of all religions feel that they are safe, he added. For the fourth consecutive year, the bipartisan United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has advised that the US administration should designate India as a Country of Particular Concern. After the report, the Ministry of External Affairs released a statement where Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) continues to regurgitate biased and motivated comments about India, this time in its 2023 annual report. We reject such misrepresentation of facts, which only serves to discredit USCIRF itself. We would urge USCIRF to desist from such efforts and develop a better understanding of India, its plurality, its democratic ethos and its constitutional mechanisms, he added. Earlier, US State Department 2022 Report on International Religious Freedom alleged that there are incidents of high-handedness against minorities especially Muslims by various state governments in India. Reacting to that report, Bagchi said, We are aware of the release of the US State Department 2022 Report on International Religious Freedom. Regrettably, such reports continue to be based on misinformation and flawed understanding. He further stated that the report is motivated and biased commentary by some US officials which only serves to undermine further the credibility of these reports. We value our partnership with the US and will continue to have frank exchanges on issues of concern to us, the spokesperson said. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Page Content Prime Minister and Minister of General Affairs Honorable Ms. Silveria Jacobs announces the successful conclusion of extensive discussions related to the border between Sint Maarten and Saint-Martin. The dialogues were aimed at fostering mutual understanding and cooperation and after diplomatic negotiations, an agreement was reached on a new treaty that will define the shared border on the island. The official signing ceremony took place today, Friday, May 26, 2023 at the border Monument in Belvedere/Belle Plaine. Prime Minister Jacobs signed the treaty, on behalf of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Minister of Interior Gerard Darmanin signed on behalf of the French Republic. The official signing ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from both governments, including the Governor. The former Governor, former Lieutenant Governors, as well as former Prime Ministers; and the French Overseas Minister Jean-Francois Carenco; President of the Collectivite of Saint-Martin, Mr. Louis Mussington; and Prefet of Saint-Barthelemy and Saint-Martin, Mr. Vincent Berton, were present at the signing. Representatives of the consular and diplomatic corps, residing on the island, were also present. The event served as a testament to the positive and constructive dialogue that has taken place between the two nations, setting a precedent for future collaborations. In addition to the signing, the ceremony featured speeches highlighting the significance of this milestone and the potential it holds for the advancement of bilateral relations. In attendance were media representatives, witnessing this historic moment first-hand. Following the signing of the treaty, both parties anticipate a smooth implementation of the agreed-upon measures, which will promote increased cooperation and facilitate more effective dialogue, thereby strengthening the bonds of friendship and understanding between the people of the island. I am immensely pleased to announce the successful signing of this border treaty. The outcome fills me with satisfaction and optimism for the future. Through diplomatic dialogue and collaboration, we have achieved a mutually beneficial agreement that fosters peace, stability, and cooperation with Saint-Martin. This treaty's signing is not a means of division or just a symbolic gesture; it is a testament to dialogue, compromise, and unity. It signals an era of cooperation, where map lines no longer divide us, said Prime Minister Jacobs. The Prime Minister continued, I commend the dedication and hard work of the negotiating team, both from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Foreign Relations, who represented The Kingdom with professionalism and resolve. This agreement demonstrates our commitment to resolving differences through peaceful means and finding common ground for the collective prosperity of our citizens. Together, we embark on a new era of collaboration and shared progress, solidifying our position as a nation that values peace, diplomacy, and positive engagement with our family to the North. Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari asserted on Wednesday that the combination of the air launched version of the BrahMos missile and the Sukhoi 30 will be the cornerstone of the IAFs firepower over the coming years. We need to look at it (BrahMos) more as a strategic weapon given its potency and calibre. We are always preparing for contingencies. As one of our most lethal air combat assets, the supersonic BrahMos missile has really galvanised the way we will equip ourselves with precision firepower in the coming years, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said during his address at an event. BrahMos and the Sukhoi 30 have really given us tremendous firepower. They have enhanced the deterrence value of the IAF by leaps and bounds. They will remain the primary deterrent of the IAF, he added. The IAF chief also emphasised the importance of developing cost effective long range weapons with formidable range and lethality. Seeing the conflicts across the globe, the importance of precision long range firepower cannot be underestimated. This is an area where we need to focus our energies to be able to develop a less costly weapon with the same reach and lethality. This could be taken as one of the challenges as we go along, he said. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Extensive raids were carried out at about 25 locations in Karnataka, Kerala and Bihar on Wednesday morning in connection with the Popular Front of India (PFI) Phulwarisharif case. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) raids were conducted at the premises of suspects linked to the conspiracy which pertains to involvement of PFI and its leaders as well as cadres in violent and unlawful activities, who had congregated for that purpose in Phulwarisharif area of Patna, Bihar. In the last one year, NIA has carried out multiple searches in Karnataka, Kerala and Bihar. Earlier, six people were arrested and several incriminating articles as well as documents related to PFI were seized in the case which was initially registered on July 12 last year at Phulwarisharif police station in Bihars Patna district. The case was re-registered by the agency on July 22 last year. As per reports, these people had gathered in the area for their terror training and carrying out acts of violence. On February 4-5, the NIA searched eight more locations in Bihars Motihari and arrested two people who had arranged weapons and ammunition to carry out the violence. Those arrested were identified as Tanveer Raza alias Barkati and Md Abid alias Aryan. The NIA said the PFI cadres in Phulwarisharif and Motihari had vowed to continue activities in a clandestine manner in Bihar. They were also allegedly planning to perform a targetted killing and had gathered weapons to execute a youth of a particular community in Bihar's East Champaran district in March this year. #WATCH | Visuals from Bihar's Katihar as NIA raids are underway at about 25 locations in Karnataka, Kerala and Bihar in connection with the Popular Front of India Phulwarisharif case pic.twitter.com/2y6XfO0ZlZ ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 The weapons were handed over to a PFI's Yakub Khan, aka Usman aka Sultan, who had been conducting training sessions for the cadres. Recently, Yakub, had posted a derogatory and inflammatory video post on Facebook, which was aimed at disturbing peace and communal harmony, NIA said. Other users of Facebook had commented and trolled this post abusively. The absconding accused Yakub and two arrested accused had identified some of them and had conspired to execute the killing of the targeted person, the NIA had said. The NIA said it found has found that despite the ban imposed on the PFI on September last year, the leaders and cadres of the outfit continue to operate. The agency also claimed that the more people are being included by PFI into their cadre by propagating their ideology of violent extremism. With inputs from ANI Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. There were several freedom fighters who were the victims of the Nehruvian establishment just because they found themselves on the other side of the politico-ideological divide. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Dr BR Ambedkar the list is long and exhaustive. But none have been as targeted and vilified as Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Savarkar epitomises the ills of the victor-takes-it-all history writing. He was the foremost among Indian revolutionaries who had already caught the nations imagination when Mahatma Gandhi was yet to start his political journey in India. In fact, it is widely believed that Gandhi had Savarkar in mind when he wrote Hind Swaraj, while Savarkars 1923 treatise Essentials of Hindutva was an intellectual potshot at the Mahatma and his pacifist philosophy. Savarkar was Gandhis biggest rival, politically and intellectually. He was a Hindutva ideologue and yet he inspired some of the noted communists like MN Roy and SA Dange; even Bhagat Singh was deeply influenced by a small English biography of Savarkar that he read in the Dwarkadas Library of Lahore. >Yet, Savarkar was pushed to the margins of the mainstream freedom struggle discourse, tragically confined to being a Hindutva ideologue just like Ambedkar was made to appear as the leader of Dalits for most parts of post-Independence India. Interestingly, Savarkars work towards mitigating the malaise of caste system and his endeavour to uplift untouchables in Ratnagiri had been appreciated by none other than Ambedkar. Savarkar has been the principal victim of Nehruvian witch-hunting, though the scale of his demonisation touched new heights during and after the 1990s, as Vikram Sampath had told this writer during the launch of the second volume of his Savarkar biography, when the first BJP-led NDA government came to power at the Centre. With the BJP venerating Savarkar, and having his portrait installed in the Central Hall of Parliament and a plaque put up in his honour at the Cellular Jail, the Congress generosity towards Savarkar as seen during Mrs Indira Gandhis time began to dissipate. It was, therefore, in a way, destinys revenge when the new Parliament building saw its inauguration on the day Savarkar was born 28 May which incidentally fell a day before Jawaharlal Nehrus death anniversary. Symbolically, the inauguration of the new Parliament on Savarkars birth anniversary marks the final termination with Nehruvian India, a process that was initiated almost a decade back in May 2014. The day is also important because, with the installation of the Sengol in the new Parliament alongside the seat of the Speaker, new Indias commitment for the ageless, timeless civilisational Bharat gets reinforced. However, to regard new India as Savarkars India would be a disservice to not just the galaxy of freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for this country, but also a simplistic assessment of Prime Minister Narendra Modis contributions in democratising Indias freedom struggle saga. The current dispensation has been striving hard to correct the lopsided nature of hero worship in the country where one family has cornered most laurels, leaving more deserving ones in the cold. When the Modi government first came to power in 2014, there were at least 450 government schemes, projects, institutions, fellowships, stadiums and airports named after the Gandhi-Nehru family. PM Modi has tried to correct this dynastic monopolisation of national schemes and projects and democratise it. In new India, the reverence for Veer Savarkar doesnt come in the way of respect for Mahatma Gandhi, and the veneration for Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel never stops one from admiring Subhas Chandra Bose. Babasaheb Ambedkars role doesnt get minimised while paying tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee. This, in a way, is the extension of the Sanatana ethos where the diversity of godheads is not just tolerated but joyfully celebrated. The idea of one godhead in theology and one family in politics is absolutely non-Indic and undemocratic in nature and temperament. Is it, therefore, any surprise that Prime Minister Modi began his tenure in Delhi by invoking Mahatma Gandhi. He launched the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan with Gandhi as a mascot, officially initiating it on 2 October 2014 the Mahatmas birth anniversary. As for Sardar Patel, he had in his honour announced a Statue of Unity project even when he was not the prime minister; Modi had, on 7 October 2013, initiated the work to build the worlds tallest statue, with a height of 182 metres, in Gujarats Kevadia district; the statue was finally inaugurated on 31 October 2018, Sardar Patels birth anniversary. Even more enterprising was Modis endeavour to salvage the legacies of Ambedkar and Netaji Bose from the tyrannical clutches of Nehruism. While the former was reduced to being the leader of Dalits and untouchables, the latter wasnt even given that foothold, consigning him to the footnotes of history and pushing him to the margins of national consciousness. To state the obvious, Ambedkar had played a stellar role in the making of the Constitution of India, and as per the British records, Netaji Bose and his INA were the reasons why India became independent in 1947. The then British Prime Minister Clement Attlee, when asked about Mahatma Gandhis role in Indias Independence, pointedly uttered a single word, m-i-n-i-m-a-l, as he slowly chewed out the word to make a dramatic impact. To be fair to Prime Minister Modi, he hasnt been credited enough for his contribution in nation-building, thanks largely to the hostile academic milieu, which remains the last surviving bastion of Nehruism. He has been working on two fronts: While giving pride of place to these freedom struggle pantheons, he has simultaneously strived to connect new India with its civilisational past. The installation of the Sengal, which may seem inconsequential to an obsessively secularised mind, points in that direction where the state is no longer apologetic about adopting dharma in matters of statecraft. It is in this perspective that PM Modi renovating and rejuvenating historic temples and shrines from those in Kashi and Ujjain to Kedarnath should be seen, analysed and appreciated. Prime Minister Modi has had some remarkable successes in unshackling the chains of Hindu coloniality and victimhood, especially in the physical sphere. But churn has begun on the mental/psychological front too. On Sunday, 28 May 2013, a group of sadhus preceding the Prime Ministers entry into the Parliament building was a powerful imagery of how far India has moved from Nehruism to shed its colonial baggage. It shows how the country is at ease with its cultural roots, no longer needing vindication from the West, no longer being afflicted by the syndrome of self-doubt and self-abnegation. The author is Opinion Editor, Firstpost and News18. He tweets from @Utpal_Kumar1. Views expressed are personal. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Like most people around the world, Indians tend to be proud of the ancient roots of their own civilisation. Sometimes they can take it a little too far, but always with a healthy spirit, and usually in good cheer. Western experts generally look askance at Indian claims to have been the first to use an alphabetic script, to have been the original source of ancient Near Eastern philosophy, or even to have invented zero. But these Western suspicions are based more on an absence of evidence than on any evidence of absence. Ancient Indians tended to write on palm leaves, whereas Mesopotamians wrote on clay tabletsbaked in the sun and stored in the desert. Its no wonder that we have overflowing archives of original Sumerian texts going back more than 5,000 years, but nothing more than 2,000 years old from India. Even the Pillars of Ashoka are only half the age of some surviving shopping lists from Iraq. And so when it comes to establishing the primacy of ancient India over the West, we have to rely on common sense as much as on historical documentation. For example, many people know the ancient Greek story of the Trojan horse. Hundreds of Greek soldiers supposedly hid inside the belly of a giant fake horse. The gullible Trojans reportedly pulled the horse into the ancient city of Troy, thinking that the Greeks had left it for them as a parting gift after 10 years of war. That night, the Greeks poured out of the horse to take the city by treachery, giving rise to the ancient maxim beware of Greeks bearing gifts. Of course, the whole story is ridiculous. The Indian original makes much more sense: in Bhasas Pratijnayaugandharayana, its a few soldiers hiding in the belly of a fake elephant placed deep in the jungle. Yet Western scholars claim that the Indian version is derived from the Greek, because the Greek version was attested several centuries earlier than the India. Written documents are so scarce for ancient India that no one even knows when Bhasa lived. Based on linguistic evidence, the Pratijnayaugandharayana is conventionally dated to around the first century BC or AD. No one knows for sure. Was the Trojan elephant element of the story a retelling of an earlier tale? No one knows at all. Everyone knows that ancient India had theatrical plays, but no one knows what they were. Along similar lines, consider the Odyssey, the ancient Greek travel epic attributed to Homer in which the hero must gain his wife by drawing a great bow; it is clearly a dimly remembered Ramayana. The hero, Odysseus, spent ten years in exile; Rama, fourteen. Both visited the underworld. Or the Iliad, Homers great war epic, in which the great hero Achilles withdraws from battle after losing his promised consort. His charioteer seeks out the advice of the wisest of the Greeks, who advises him that a soldiers duty is to fight. Achilles is ultimately persuaded to rejoin the battle, not by his charioteer, but by the death of his charioteer. The Indian original is, of course, the Mahabharata. In the Bhagavad Gita, it is the charioteer himself, Krishna, who gives the advice to the hero Arjuna. But otherwise the story is remarkably parallel, considering the miles and millennia of separation. In an otherwise inexplicable coincidence, Achilles is only vulnerable in one place: he is eventually brought down by an arrow to the heel. If the story elements arent enough to show a common origin, the sentiments tell the same story. The Bhagavad Gita might just as well have been composed in pre-classical Greece as in ancient India. For example, in Chapter 6, Lord Krishna explains to Arjuna how a yogi should meditate, but then goes on to explain that: But for earthly needs Religion is not his who too much fasts Or too much feasts, nor his who sleeps away An idle mind; nor his who wears to waste His strength in vigils. Nay, Arjuna! call That the true piety which most removes Earth-aches and ills, where one is moderate In eating and in resting, and in sport; Measured in wish and act; sleeping betimes, Waking betimes for duty. (Edwin Arnold translation, 1900) No text could more eloquently express the ancient Greek maxim of moderation in all things. Every educated person knows that before Muslim and Christian colonialism, Indic culture was present throughout Asia, from the Buddhism of Mongolia to the Hindu temples of Bali. What fewer people realize is that classical Greek religion, which is the ultimate source of European literature and philosophy, also had its origins, if not necessarily in India, in a source that was much closer to the living civilisation of India today than to any other civilization in the world. The author is an associate professor at the University of Sydney and the author of the new study Unholy Alliance: Inside the Activist Campaign to Pry India from the West. He earned his MS (mathematical sciences) and PhD (sociology) from Johns Hopkins University. Views expressed are personal. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. India has a new Parliament building. There was controversy whether the country needed to replace the old Parliament. Some people felt that there was scope to refurbish the old, rather than spend so much money on a new one. Others believed that, although built by the British, the old building was replete with historical memories of the making of new India, and should have been retained. Whatever the differences in opinion, the fact is that India has a new Parliament, built by Indians, and by all accounts a beautiful, modern and far more spacious premises, which will be better suited to meet our needs in the future. There was controversy also on Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating the building. My own view is that it would have been more appropriate, on such a momentous occasion, to have the President of India doing the honours. The prime minister is the head of government; but the President, under Article 79 of the Constitution, is the head of Parliament. In fact, as per this article, the Parliament consists of the President, and the two houses of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. She convenes Parliament, prorogues it, and dissolves it. It is she too who formally inaugurates the Budget Session of Parliament. The President is above politics, while the prime minister is the head of government, but also the leader of a specific political party. Since Parliament belongs to all political parties, it would have been befitting for the head of state to dedicate this new temple of democracy to the people of India. If she would have come, then the Vice-President, who chairs the Rajya Sabha, could also have been present. As it so happened, the two key figures in our Parliament, the President who heads it, and the Vice-President who chairs the Rajya Sabha, were both absent, possibly watching the resplendent ceremony, of which they should have been an intrinsic part, on TV. The argument that some state legislatures have also been inaugurated by Congress leaders and not by the Governors of those states, is valid, but one wrong does not justify another, especially where its a question of the correct procedure substantially and ceremonially pertaining to the national Parliament. But this being said, it was an impressive ceremony. The criticism of the installation of the Sengol was, to my mind, entirely unnecessary. India is a secular nation, but secularism does not mean being anti-religion. It is for this reason that the national symbol of the country are the three lions, taken from King Ashoks reign, who was a Buddhist. That is why too, no one has raised any objection to the PMs speech on Independence Day every year, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, which was built by Emperor Shahjahan, who was a devout Muslim, and had a beautiful mosque within his palace. At the very entrance of Parliament is a saying from the Upanishads: Udaar Charitanam Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: For the big-hearted, the entire world is a family. The inauguration ceremony had an all-faith prayer meeting. If, in addition, a symbol of the transfer of power, given by the Aadheenam Matha in Madurai on 14th August 1947, whether to Lord Mountbatten or Jawaharlal Nehru, has been rediscovered and reclaimed from anonymity in Allahabad Museum, and installed in the new Parliament, why create a self-defeating controversy over it? The Sengol, symbolising transfer of power from one king to another, was a hoary tradition of the powerful, highly refined and long-reigning Chola dynasty from Tamil Nadu. The decision to give it a new prominence as representing the return of sovereignty to the people of India deserves to be welcomed, even if belatedly. The real challenge for us is to ensure that the new Parliament conducts its proceedings in a manner that is commensurate with its physical grandeur. We may take pride in claiming to be the worlds largest democracy, but the ruckus, disruption, cacophony and perennial adjournments of our Parliamentary sessions are hardly a worthy advertisement for that. Only rarely very rarely does Parliament see a lucid, calm, and reasoned debate. Nor do we have any more displays of erudition, repartee, humour and eloquence that used to be so common in the past. On the contrary the level of discourse has become so coarse that it puts us to shame. The behaviour of our parliamentarians would be an adequate role model for a fish bazaar, with legislators screaming slogans, entering the well, carrying placards, hurling abuses, breaking mikes and tables, and even threatening the physical safety of the presiding officers. The net result is that important Bills including the Budget are passed without discussion, and very few are sent for considered examination to Select Committees. How can we change this state of affairs? We seem to be caught in a vicious circle. When the BJP was in Opposition, two of its tallest democrats, Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj leaders of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha respectively gave ideological justification for the disruption of Parliament, calling it also a form of democracy. Now when the BJP occupies the Treasury Benches, the Opposition follows the same principle. The political atmosphere in general has become so bitter and acrimonious, that there is hardly any scope left for civilised dialogue. It is normally accepted that it is the duty of the Treasury Benches to run the House. Rajiv Shukla, then Minister for Parliamentary Affairs in the UPA government, once told me that Pranab Mukherjee, the leader of the house in the Rajya Sabha, used to scold him if he did not spend enough time with Opposition leaders. The reason for this was and remains that there needs to be greater trust and respect for each other on both sides of the aisle. The onus for this lies on both sides. The ruling party must allow the Opposition to raise issues which it considers a priority. It must also not use its brute majority to stream role legislation, and be willing to have a debate. For its part, the Opposition should learn greater self-discipline and not break Parliamentary protocol almost on a daily basis. Our new Parliament will really be worth its investment, if it also inaugurates a new era of parliamentary decorum. Is that too much to ask for? The author is a former diplomat, an author and a politician. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not represent the stand of this publication. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. A group comprising leading AI researchers, engineers, and CEOs has expressed concerns about the existential threat posed by AI to humanity. In a concise statement of 22 words, they emphasize the need to prioritize global efforts in mitigating the risks associated with AI, comparable to addressing other major societal risks like pandemics and nuclear war. It reads: Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war. The statement, released by the Center for AI Safety, a non-profit based in San Francisco, has garnered support from influential figures including CEOs of Google DeepMind and OpenAI, Demis Hassabis and Sam Altman respectively, as well as Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio, two of the three recipients of the 2018 Turing Award. Notably, the third recipient, Yann LeCun, the chief AI scientist at Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has yet to sign the statement. This declaration represents a notable contribution to the ongoing and contentious debate surrounding AI safety. Earlier this year, a group of signatories, including some of those who have now supported the concise warning, signed an open letter advocating for a six-month pause in AI development. However, this letter received criticism from various perspectives. While some experts believed it exaggerated the risks posed by AI, others agreed with the concerns but disagreed with the suggested solution. Dan Hendrycks, the executive director of the Center for AI Safety, explained that the brevity of the recent statement, which did not propose specific measures to mitigate the AI threat, aimed to avoid such disagreements. He emphasized that the intention was not to present an extensive list of thirty potential interventions, as that would dilute the message. Hendrycks characterized the statement as a collective acknowledgement from industry insiders who worry about the risks associated with AI. He highlighted the misconception that only a few individuals express concerns about these matters within the AI community, while in reality, many privately share apprehensions. Although the fundamental aspects of this debate are well-known, the specifics can be lengthy and revolve around hypothetical scenarios in which AI systems rapidly advance in capabilities, potentially compromising safety. Supporters of this viewpoint often cite the rapid progress observed in large language models as evidence of future gains in intelligence. They argue that once AI systems reach a certain level of sophistication, it might become impossible to control their actions. However, there are those who doubt these predictions. They point out the inability of AI systems to handle even relatively mundane tasks such as driving a car. Despite years of dedicated research and substantial investments, fully autonomous vehicles remain far from reality. Sceptics question the technologys ability to match all other human accomplishments in the years to come if it struggles with this specific challenge. In the present day, both proponents and sceptics of AI risk acknowledge that AI systems pose several threats, independent of further advancements. These threats include enabling mass surveillance, powering flawed predictive policing algorithms, and facilitating the spread of misinformation and disinformation. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Humans have always held a deep fascination with space and the potential existence of life on other planets. To explore the possibility of contact with extraterrestrial civilisations, the European Space Agency (ESA) used its ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter to transmit a simulated signal from Mars. The encoded message was sent as part of the agencys initiative called A Sign in Space, with the intention of preparing a response in the event of an actual alien communication. The artist who led the project, Daniela de Paulis, expressed the profound impact such an encounter would have on humanity, as people have always sought meaning in extraordinary and transformative events. Since October 2016, the ESA spacecraft has been orbiting Mars, actively searching for signs of potential biological or geological activity. On 10 May, the message was initially sent from the ESAs mission control center in Darmstadt, Germany, to the spacecraft. It was then stored in the crafts memory, converted into telemetry (data), and transmitted back to Earth. The ESA revealed on its website that the content of the message has been securely guarded, inviting the public and experts from diverse cultures and nations to decipher and interpret it. They encouraged individuals who successfully decoded the message to submit their scientific data, thoughts, sketches, drawings, and ideas related to the technical decoding and cultural interpretation of the communication. These contributions will be shared on the projects website and associated social media channels, enabling the world to engage in the process of decoding and understanding the message. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. In a big boost for the Indian military and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, India and the United States (US) are on track to finalise a major defence deal for the joint manufacture of indigenous jet engines of fighter aircraft. According to media reports, the project is to be jointly carried out by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and US company General Electric (GE). The defence deal may be announced when Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes a state visit to the US next month. Officials were quoted as saying by the media that while the manufacture of aviation engines will be the initial focus of the partnership between HAL and General Electric (GE), it will eventually extend to engines for ships for the Indian Navy. If the deal goes through, it will be one of the most definitive defence partnerships between India and the United States (US). Transfer of Technology (ToT) for fighter aircraft engines was the main focus of the discussions when National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval held a dialogue with his US counterpart Jack Sullivan last February. The duo had launched the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) at the time, which had been announced by US President Joe Biden and PM Modi in May last year. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. A man had a close encounter with death when a saltwater crocodile assaulted him while he was snorkelling in Australias Queensland. Marcus McGowan, aged 51, was enjoying some time underwater near Cape York on Haggerstone Island with his wife and friends when the attack occurred. McGowan saved himself by prying open the crocodiles jaws to free his head. In a report by the South China Morning Post, the Australian claimed that he managed to create enough space with his hands to escape. The crocodile made a second attempt to attack him, but he successfully pushed it away, sustaining lacerations on his right hand. Marcus McGowan then swam towards a nearby boat that had responded to the groups distress calls. Once on the boat, a friend provided immediate medical assistance by bandaging McGowans wounds and administering antibiotic injections. Following the incident, McGowan was airlifted to a nearby hospital via helicopter and later transferred to Cairns for additional medical care. In a statement, he acknowledged his awareness of the inherent dangers associated with swimming in the open sea. McGowan said, When you enter the marine environment, you are entering territory that belongs to potentially dangerous animals, such as sharks and crocodiles. He stated that his unfortunate encounter was a result of being in the wrong place at the wrong moment. In a statement by the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, McGowan described that he initially mistook the creature for a shark. Upon reaching out, he realised it was a crocodile. He estimated the reptile to be a young one, measuring between 1.8 to 3 meters in length. Adult saltwater crocodiles can grow up to 6 metres. The incident will be reportedly subject to investigation by Queenslands Department of Environment and Science, as reported by The Guardian. Crocodile populations in Queensland have been gradually increasing, accompanied by a rise in non-fatal attacks. While fatal incidents involving humans are relatively uncommon in the state, a recent case involving the discovery of a fishermans remains inside two crocodiles in May confirmed the occurrence of a deadly attack. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. On Wednesday, Beijing condemned the US for a provocation in which a Chinese jet flew in front of an American surveillance plane over the South China Sea. The event occurs at a time when relations between Washington and Beijing are strained due to problems such as Taiwan, which China considers its territory, and the shooting down of a suspected Chinese spy balloon that went over the United States earlier this year. The United States long-term and frequent sending of ships and planes to conduct close surveillance on China seriously harms Chinas national sovereignty and security, foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said when asked about the latest incident. This kind of provocative, dangerous activity is the cause of the security issues on the seas, Mao said, calling on Washington to immediately stop this form of dangerous provocation. China will continue to take all necessary steps to resolutely protect its own sovereignty and security, she said. The US military said on Tuesday a Chinese fighter pilot had performed an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver near an American surveillance aircraft operating over the South China Sea last week. Video footage released by the US military shows a Chinese fighter plane crossing in front of the American aircraft, which can be seen shaking from the resulting turbulence. The Chinese plane flew directly in front of and within 400 feet of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the US aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence on Friday, the Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement. The RC-135 was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law, it said. The Pentagon said the incident was part of a pattern of behaviour by China. A senior US defence official said there has been an alarming increase in the number of risky aerial intercepts and confrontations at sea by Chinese aircraft and ships actions that have the potential to create an unsafe incident or miscalculation. The announcement of the latest incident came a day after the Pentagon said Beijing had refused a US invitation for Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to meet his Chinese counterpart in Singapore this week. The senior US defence official said the timing of the announcement of the South China Sea incident was unrelated to Chinas refusal of the invitation, explaining that information was subject to the US military declassification process and US diplomatic communication process. Undermining mutual trust Beijing said in response to reports of the Singapore cancellation that the United States was entirely responsible for the current difficulties in exchanges between the two militaries. On the one hand, the United States keeps saying that it wants to strengthen communication, Chinese defence ministry spokesman Tan Kefei said Wednesday. But on the other hand, it ignores Chinas concerns and artificially creates obstacles, seriously undermining mutual trust between the two militaries, he said. Austin and other US officials have been working to shore up alliances and partnerships in Asia as part of efforts to counter what they say are increasingly assertive moves by Beijing. But there have also been tentative signs that the two sides were working to lower the temperature. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi met in Vienna earlier this month, and President Joe Biden said later that ties between Washington and Beijing should thaw very soon. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Page Content The United States Climate Prediction Center which is part of the National Weather Service of the National Oceanographic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), is forecasting 12-17 named storms for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season. The hurricane season officially starts on June 1st and ends on November 30th. Of the 12-17-named storms, five to nine could become hurricanes, including one to four of those could become a major hurricane (category 3-5). The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) which falls under the Fire Department (Ministry of General Affairs) headed by Fire Chief/Disaster Coordinator Clive Richardson, is appealing to all residents and businesses to plan ahead and lets Be Prepared for the hurricane season. The community is urged to learn more about hurricane hazards and how to prepare for a storm/hurricane strike by visiting the Government website: www.sintmaartengov.org/hurricane where you will be able to download your Hurricane Season Readiness Guide and Hurricane Tracking Chart. Listen to the Government Radio station SXMGOV 107.9FM - for official information and news before, during and after a hurricane. You can also follow weather related news and information as well as national addresses by the Prime Minister, chairlady of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) by going to @SXMGOV Facebook Page. For official weather-related information, check out the website of the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS): www.meteosxm.com or visit their social media page Facebook.com/sxmweather/ Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make it a bad season. Be prepared! Emotional outbursts at beauty pageants are not uncommon, but this one may just take the cake. At a recently concluded LGBTQ+ beauty pageant in Brazil, a man swarmed the stairs leading to the stage and took away the winners crown. Before the seated audience could understand his indignation, he smashed the crown to the ground. According to Globo, a news outlet, the man was the husband to one of the final participants representing Cuiaba and could not bear to his wife lose the competition. The video started making rounds on the Internet after one of the attendees recorded the mans actions. The mans outburst occurred as the winner was announced at the Miss Gay Mato Grosso 2023 pageant. Miss Gay Mato Grosso 2023 Miss Gay Mato Grosso is held annually to select a representative for Mato Grosso, that is, the third-largest state in Brazil. Nathally Becker, who represented the city of Cuiaba, lost to Emannuelly Belini of Varzea Grande. The viral video via Jam Press shows that just as the twinkling tiara was about to be placed atop Belinis head, Beckers husband pulled it away. With an excited crowd cheering for the finalists, he tossed the crown away from the stage. The audience gasped as he yelled and pulled his wife away from the winner. Revolta na final do concurso Miss Brasil Gay 2023. Torcedor arranca coroa da vencedora e joga no chao durante a cerimonia de premiacao. pic.twitter.com/rb6duFvAEn Bruno Guzzo (@brunoguzzo) May 28, 2023 Later, the man repeated his earlier action. He picked up the crown and threw it to the ground again, breaking it into pieces. According to the New York Post, the events security team interrupted immediately and pulled the man backstage. Pageant coordinator Malone Haenisch later released a statement saying, He did not consider the result to be fair and caused all this inconvenience and damage. The pageant planner added legal measures will be taken against Beckers husband for disrupting the crowning ceremony. We vehemently condemn the incident that occurred at the time of the crowning of the elected Miss when the partner of Miss Cuiaba, who was classified in second place, invaded the stage and aggressively destroyed the crown, Haenisch added. The organiser also insisted that the pageants judges were fair in declaring Belini the winner. He said in a statement, We reiterate our best wishes and wish you a glamorous reign, and that your activities may reflect the voice and desires of the LGBTQIAP+ community. A similar act of violence occurred during the Miss Sri Lanka pageant in October 2022 in New York City. A controversy that ensued after critics claimed the Miss USA pageant was wrongfully rigged for Miss Texas in October 2022. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. As India and China ejected each others journalists in the recent weeks, former CEO of Prasar Bharati Shashi Shekhar Vempati termed the development unfortunate and blamed China for its intransigent attitude. An unfortunate development contributed largely by Chinas intransigence, said Vempati on Twitter referring to India and China virtually wiping out mutual media access and deepening a rift between the worlds two most populous nations. Reminiscing his days as the CEO of Prasar Bharati, Vempati said that over the years he observed that provocative coverage of India by CGTN, a state-run foreign-language news channel based in Beijing, had no red lines while even the slightest mention of Taiwan by DD News would elicit advisories from the Chinese embassy. At multilateral platforms such as the Asia Pacific Broadcasting Union, the behaviour of Chinas Public Media entities was often petulant against India with barely any support from other national media, he wrote. He said trust between the worlds two most populous nations and neighbours will require direct and first hand reporting and understanding on each others developments. Hope China realises this as it has lost immense trust in India, he added. According to a Wall Street Journal report, citing people familiar with the matter, New Delhi denied visa renewals this month to the last two remaining Chinese state media journalists in the country, from state-run Xinhua News Agency and China Central Television. Indian media outlets had four remaining journalists based in China at the beginning of the year. At least two of them havent been granted visas to return to the country, a Chinese official said. A third was told this month that his accreditation had been revoked but he remains in the country, the report added. The reciprocal moves are likely to add to acrimony between the two neighbours, whose relationship has deteriorated since a deadly brawl on the contested Sino-Indian border in June 2020. Since then, a once-warming relationship between the two members of the so-called BRICS grouping of emerging powers has grown testy, spilling over into a wide-ranging bilateral dispute. India has shifted toward more active participation in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, the US-led grouping known as the Quad that also includes Australia and Japan, and which China regards as an attempt to encircle and contain it. Ties between New Delhi and Beijing have soured in other ways. India has banned dozens of Chinese mobile apps, including TikTok, WeChat and other global hits with roots in China, effectively locking them out of the fast-growing Indian market. In recent months, China has renamed certain features in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, which Beijing claims almost in its entirety and calls South Tibet. China boycotted a Group of 20 working group meeting on tourism after India, as host, decided to hold the meeting this month in the territory of Kashmir. The region has been at the center of a dispute between India and Pakistan since partition in 1947, with both countries claiming it in full but only controlling parts of it. Chinas territorial disputes with India include the abutting strategic area of Ladakh. The journalist ejections add another dimension to the fraying ties between China and India, reducing exchanges and visibility between two nuclear-armed neighbors whose combined population accounts for more than one-third of the worlds total. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Chinas governing Communist Party has warned of the dangers of artificial intelligence advancements while pushing for more national security measures. The statement, published following a meeting convened by party head and President Xi Jinping on Tuesday, highlights the contradiction between the governments drive to grab global leadership in cutting-edge technology and worries about the potential social and political costs of such innovations. It also came after a warning from academics and IT sector leaders in the United States, including top executives at Microsoft and Google, about the dangers that artificial intelligence posed to humanity. The Beijing forum highlighted the importance of dedicated efforts to safeguard political security and improve the security governance of internet data and artificial intelligence, according to the official Xinhua News Agency. It was stressed at the meeting that the complexity and severity of national security problems faced by our country have increased dramatically. The national security front must build up strategic self-confidence, have enough confidence to secure victory, and be keenly aware of its own strengths and advantages, Xinhua said. We must be prepared for worst-case and extreme scenarios, and be ready to withstand the major test of high winds, choppy waters and even dangerous storms, it said. Xi, who is Chinas head of state, commander of the military and chair of the partys National Security Commission, called the meeting for staying keenly aware of the complicated and challenging circumstances facing national security. China needs a new pattern of development with a new security architecture, Xinhua reported Xi as saying. China already dedicates vast resources to suppressing any perceived political threats to the partys dominance, with spending on the police and security personnel exceeding that devoted to the military. While it relentlessly censors in-person protests and online criticism, citizens have continued to express dissatisfaction with policies, most recently the draconian lockdown measures enacted to combat the spread of COVID-19. China has been cracking down on its tech sector in an effort to reassert party control, but like other countries, it is scrambling to find ways to regulate fast-developing AI technology. The most recent party meeting reinforced the need to assess the potential risks, take precautions, safeguard the peoples interests and national security, and ensure the safety, reliability and ability to control AI, the official newspaper Beijing Youth Daily reported Tuesday. Worries about artificial intelligence systems outsmarting humans and slipping out of control have intensified with the rise of a new generation of highly capable AI chatbots such as ChatGPT. Sam Altman, CEO of ChatGPT-maker OpenAI, and Geoffrey Hinton, a computer scientist known as the godfather of artificial intelligence, were among the hundreds of leading figures who signed the statement on Tuesday that was posted on the Center for AI Safetys website. Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, the statement said. More than 1,000 researchers and technologists, including Elon Musk, who is currently on a visit to China, had signed a much longer letter earlier this year calling for a six-month pause on AI development. The missive said AI poses profound risks to society and humanity, and some involved in the topic have proposed a United Nations treaty to regulate the technology. China warned as far back as 2018 of the need to regulate AI but has nonetheless funded a vast expansion in the field as part of efforts to seize the high ground on cutting-edge technologies. A lack of privacy protections and strict party control over the legal system has also resulted in near-blanket use of facial, voice and even walking-gait recognition technology to identify and detain those seen as threatening, particularly political dissenters and religious minorities, especially Muslims. Members of the Uyghur and other mainly Muslim ethnic groups have been singled out for mass electronic monitoring and more than 1 million people have been detained in prison-like political re-education camps that China calls deradicalization and job training centres. AIs risks are seen mainly in its ability to control robotic, self-governing weaponry, financial tools and computers governing power grids, health centres, transportation networks and other key infrastructure. Chinas unbridled enthusiasm for new technology and willingness to tinker with imported or stolen research and to stifle inquiries into major events such as the COVID-19 outbreak heighten concerns over its use of AI. Chinas blithe attitude toward technological risk, the governments reckless ambition, and Beijings crisis mismanagement are all on a collision course with the escalating dangers of AI, technology and national security scholars Bill Drexel and Hannah Kelley wrote in an article published this week in the journal Foreign Affairs. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Under assault from conservatives, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy worked feverishly Tuesday to persuade fellow Republicans to support the debt ceiling and budget deal he struck with President Joe Biden in order to avoid a potentially calamitous US default. Leaders of the hard-right House Freedom Caucus slammed the deal for falling well short of the expenditure cutbacks they seek, vowing to block its approval in Congress. The Republican Study Committee, a far larger conservative bloc, remained silent. Even rank-and-file moderate conservatives were divided, leaving McCarthy urgently seeking support. The House Rules Committee voted 7-6 Tuesday to send a bill to the entire House dealing with the federal debt ceiling, with two Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. The full House is expected to vote Wednesday. With tough days ahead, the speaker went into overtime, assembling lawmakers for pizza behind closed doors Tuesday evening at the Capitol, after publicly urging skeptical GOP colleagues to look at where the victories are. Earlier, he said on Fox and Friends that Theres nothing in the bill for Democrats hardly a helpful statement for Biden. In one late development, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said the spending restrictions in the package would reduce deficits by $1.5 trillion over the decade, a top goal for the Republicans trying to curb the debt load. But in a surprise that could further erode Republican support, the GOPs drive to impose work requirements on older Americans receiving food stamps ends up boosting spending by $2.1 billion over the time period. Thats because the final deal exempted veterans and homeless people, expanding the food stamp rolls by some 78,000 people monthly, the CBO said. McCarthy brushed past questions about the mounting opposition, saying everybody is elected to have their own vote. Quick passage by both the House and Senate would ensure that federal payments continue to be issued to Social Security beneficiaries, veterans, and others, as well as preventing financial turbulence throughout the world by allowing the Treasury to continue paying US bills. The agreement, as outlined in the 99-page law, would limit spending over the next two years, but it contains environmental policy changes and enhanced job requirements for certain senior food aid recipients, both of which Democrats fiercely oppose. According to the White House, Biden was communicating directly to lawmakers, making more than 100 one-on-one calls. Top administration officials are on their way to Capitol Hill to inform Democrats secretly ahead of the scheduled vote on Wednesday. Few members are anticipated to be completely happy, so Biden and McCarthy are relying on securing majority support from the political centeruncommon in Washingtons polarised capitalto avert a national default. In the 435-member House, approval requires 218 votes. The House Rules Committee, which is generally politicised, voted to forward the bill to the entire House, with two Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries stated that it was up to McCarthy to turn out two-thirds of the Republican majority, a high bar that the speaker may not be able to meet. Nonetheless, Jeffries stated that the Democrats will do all possible to prevent failure. It is my expectation that House Republicans would keep their promise and deliver at least 150 votes as it relates to an agreement that they themselves negotiated, Jeffries said. Democrats will make sure that the country does not default. McCarthy could expect no help from the far right. This deal fails, fails completely, and thats why these members and others will be absolutely opposed to the deal, Rep. Scott Perry, R-Pa., the chairman of the Freedom Caucus, said, flanked by others outside the Capitol. We will do everything in our power to stop it. Ominously, the conservatives warned of potentially trying to oust McCarthy over the compromise. Theres going to be a reckoning, said Rep. Chip Roy of Texas. Despite the late-night meeting at the Capitol, Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., said after the healthy debate she was still a no. Liberal Democrats decried the new work requirements for older Americans, those 50-54, in the food aid program. And some Democratic lawmakers were leading an effort against a surprise provision to greenlight a controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline natural gas project through Appalachia. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said she appreciated that Biden was able to minimize the extreme demands Republicans made on spending, but she raised serious concerns about the food stamps and other environmental policy changes. She also had this warning for McCarthy: He got us here and its on him to deliver the votes. Wall Street was taking a wait-and-see approach. Stock prices were mixed in Tuesdays trading. US markets had been closed when the deal was struck over the weekend. Overall, the package is a tradeoff that would impose some federal spending reductions for the next two years along with a suspension of the debt limit into January 2025, pushing the volatile political issue past the next presidential election. Raising the debt limit, now $31.4 trillion, would allow Treasury to continue borrowing to pay the nations already incurred bills. All told, it would hold spending essentially flat for the coming year, while allowing increases for military and veterans accounts. It would cap growth at 1% for 2025. Policy issues were raising the most objections. Questions were also being raised about the unexpected provision that essentially would give congressional approval to the Mountain Valley Pipeline, a natural gas project important to Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., that many Democrats and others oppose as unhelpful in fighting climate change. The top Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee, Rep. Raul Grijalva of Arizona, said including the pipeline provision was disturbing and profoundly disappointing. But Manchin on Tuesday touted the pipeline project as something we know we need. The House aims to vote Wednesday and send the bill to the Senate, where Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Republican leader McConnell are working for passage by weeks end. Schumer called the bill a sensible compromise. McConnell said McCarthy deserves our thanks. Senators, who have remained largely on the sidelines during much of the negotiations between the president and the House speaker, began inserting themselves more forcefully into the debate. Some senators are insisting on amendments to reshape the package from both the left and right flanks. That could require time-consuming debates that delay final approval of the deal. For one, Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia planned to file an amendment to remove the pipeline provision. But making any changes to the package at this stage seemed unlikely with so little time to spare. Congress and the White House are racing to meet the Monday deadline now less than a week away. Thats when Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said the US would run short of cash and face an unprecedented debt default without action. A default would almost certainly harm the US economy and spill around the globe, as the worlds reliance on the stability of the American dollar and the countrys leadership fell into question. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. On Wednesday, the chairwoman of the Dutch parliament urged Twitter to take action to deter threats made against the nations legislators from being posted on the social media site. Vera Bergkamp made public a letter she wrote to the global affairs division of the American firm expressing deep concern about recent tweets that included death threats and calls for violence and even murder directed at members of parliament. She tweeted, These are probably punishable under Dutch criminal law. Geert Wilders, the leader of the Freedom Party, an anti-Islamic party in the Netherlands, has received many death threats on Twitter for more than ten years. In October 2022, billionaire Elon Musk acquired Twitter. Shortly after, he immediately let go of employees, including ones in charge of content moderation, in favour of more automated methods. Musk, a self-proclaimed free speech absolutist, has said he bought Twitter to prevent the platform from becoming an echo chamber for hate and division. I understand Twitter works hard to minimize toxic and illegal content, Bergkamp wrote. Despite that I urge you to take immediate action to address this issue .. in order to protect our freedom of expression. Requests for comment sent to Twitters press email and the companys Global Affairs account were not immediately answered. Although she is not a member of parliament, the Netherlands Finance Minister Sigrid Kaag of the centre-left D-66 Party has also been subjected to online and offline threats. Last week, Kaag indicated she may consider quitting politics as a result, sparking a national discussion. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Elon Musk and Chinas industry minister met to discuss new energy vehicle development. Wednesday, a day after the Tesla CEO went to Beijing and stated his intention to develop his company in the worlds second-largest economy. The eccentric billionaire, one of the worlds wealthiest men, is visiting China for the first time in more than three years. He met with Jin Zhuanglong in Beijing on Wednesday to discuss the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent connected vehicles, according to a readout from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. It did not provide any other information. Tesla spokespeople did not reply to AFP inquiries on Musks travel plans. According to a foreign ministry readout, Musk has substantial economic interests in China and told foreign minister Qin Gang on Tuesday that his company was willing to continue to expand its business in China. Teslas CEO was greeted in Beijing on Tuesday with a 16-course supper that featured shellfish, New Zealand lamb and classic Beijing-style soybean paste noodles, according to Chinese media. China is the worlds largest electric car market, and Tesla said in April that it will construct a second enormous facility in Shanghai, its second in the city following the Gigafactory, which opened in 2019. Musk also underlined his objection to an economic decoupling between China and the United States at his meeting with Qin on Tuesday, according to Beijing. The interests of the United States and China are intertwined, like conjoined twins, who are inseparable from each other, Musk added. Musks extensive business ties to China have raised eyebrows in Washington, with President Joe Biden saying in November that the executives links to foreign countries were worthy of scrutiny. And he has caused controversy by suggesting the self-ruled island of Taiwan should become part of China a stance welcomed by Chinese officials but which deeply angered Taiwan. Critics point to the industrial ties linking Musk to China, which has increasingly fraught ties with Washington. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday that the country welcomed visits by international executives to better understand China and promote mutually beneficial cooperation. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Chinese Foreign Minister, Qin Gang, assured Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and owner of Twitter, that China remains open to foreign businesses despite worsening relations with the US. During their meeting in Beijing on Tuesday, Qin emphasized Chinas commitment to promoting high-level openness and creating a business environment that is market-oriented, law-based, and internationalized. The Chinese Foreign Ministry quoted Qin as saying that Chinas development presents an opportunity for the world. Also read: Elon Musk in China to meet govt. officials, causes major headache for Bidens White House Tesla, a leading foreign manufacturer in China, heavily relies on China as its main production centre and the second-largest market for its electric vehicles. Elon Musk, with a net worth of nearly $200 billion according to Forbes, was scheduled to meet with other Chinese officials and visit Teslas Shanghai plant after concluding his discussions with Qin. Following his meeting with Minister Qin Gang, Musk also met Chinas Commerce Ministry, headed by Wang Wentao. Musk In China Musks visit to China follows in the footsteps of other US business leaders like Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, and Albert Bourla from Pfizer, who have returned to China for visits after a three-year hiatus caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. These visits have taken place against the backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions in Beijing. Last August, China severed military and climate ties with Washington due to concerns over alleged US interference in Taiwan. Reports indicate that China has rejected a request from US officials for a meeting between their respective defence ministers during an upcoming security conference in Singapore. Also read: China snub to US as it declines meeting with defence chief Lloyd Austin In response, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, stated on Tuesday that the US should genuinely respect Chinas sovereignty, security, and interests, and immediately rectify its misguided actions. What happened at the meeting between Musk and Qin? During his meeting with Elon Musk, Qin used a driving analogy to illustrate the necessary steps for improving US-China relations. He emphasized the importance of steering in the right direction of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation. Additionally, Qin urged both countries to skillfully utilize their brakes and accelerators to avoid dangerous manoeuvres and instead promote mutually beneficial cooperation. In response, Musk expressed Teslas opposition to the idea of decoupling the US and Chinese economies, describing them as interconnected entities. He stated that Tesla is eager to expand its operations in China, leveraging the countrys development opportunities. Musk also expressed high admiration for the diligence and intelligence of the Chinese people. During his tenure as the Chinese ambassador to Washington, Qin Gang expressed gratitude to Elon Musk in October last year for his efforts in promoting peace in the Taiwan Strait. Qin commended Musks suggestion of reunifying China by granting Taiwan a special administrative region status with a certain level of autonomy. Details of the meeting with Chinas Commerce Ministry isnt public as of writing this article. Sources, however, have claimed that the meeting was rather customary in nature, where not a lot was discussed. Musk is scheduled to visit Wang Wentao again, for a detailed discussion on a range of subjects. Musks plan ahead When asked by reporters at the hotel, Elon Musk has chosen not to comment thus far regarding the purpose of his trip, Teslas prospects in China, or the plans for Teslas plant in Shanghai. Also read: Tesla wreaks havoc in Chinas EV market with new price war, gives 50% discount on all cars According to sources, it is anticipated that Musk will have meetings with other high-ranking Chinese officials and visit Teslas Shanghai plant later in the week. However, the specific individuals he will meet with and the topics they will discuss have not been disclosed. However, it is speculated that most of the agendas of his meetings revolve around Tesla. This is backed by the fact that on Wednesday morning, Elon Musk departed from his hotel along with Grace Tao, Teslas China-based public affairs chief, and Tom Zhu, the head of global manufacturing at Tesla and later on, Musks car was spotted parked outside the commerce ministry. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. On Tuesday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ramped up his criticism of Republican competitor Donald Trump as he began his first campaign swing as a presidential contender in Iowa. While DeSantis hardly mentioned the former president during his comments at a nighttime rally, he was less restrained afterwards while answering media inquiries. DeSantis criticised Trump on subjects like immigration, COVID policy, and government spending, implying that as president, he had strayed from conservative ideals. Unfortunately, hes decided to move left on some of these issues, DeSantis said. Trump, the front-runner in the Republican race, recently assailed DeSantis handling of the COVID pandemic, when DeSantis resisted federal mask and vaccine mandates. DeSantis called Trumps criticisms detached from reality and argued Republicans would respond by supporting him. I think hes doing it in a way that the voters are going to side with me, DeSantis said. Hell, he added, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship. Trump has been a Florida resident since leaving office and several of his children live in the state. Trump has repeatedly denigrated DeSantis record and has argued that he has the best chance of defeating President Joe Biden in next years election. Ron DeSantis is not a serious person who can take on Joe Biden and bring about the Great American Comeback, Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in response to DeSantis remarks. DeSantis comments came after the first in-person event of his just-launched campaign. He told a crowd packed inside a church in western Des Moines that the nation was going in the wrong direction. We can see it, DeSantis said, and we can feel it. DeSantis, who launched his campaign in a glitch-plagued virtual forum on Twitter last week, has now turned to old-school politicking, beginning with two days in Iowa and then on to New Hampshire and South Carolina on a tour that will be closely watched to see if the buttoned-down, policy-minded governor can flash interpersonal skills that some critics have said he lacks. Trump will be right behind him. He will hold events in Iowa the day DeSantis stumps in New Hampshire, a sign the battle for the nomination is about to enter a more intense phase. Iowa is a key state for DeSantis. The Iowa caucuses next February will be the first nominating contest in the nation, and the states sizeable white, evangelical Christian population has sometimes been at odds with Trump. Trump lost the caucuses in 2016 to U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, who was able to attract much of the Christian vote. It was little surprise, then, that DeSantis held his initial Iowa event in the auditorium of an evangelical church. DeSantis told reporters he expected to win a large share of the evangelical vote. I have a record of standing for what is right, and Im willing to take arrows for that, he said. DeSantis was introduced by Iowas Republican governor, Kim Reynolds, and was joined by his wife, Casey DeSantis. I have a hunch theyre going to be here a lot, Reynolds said. DeSantis will hold four campaign events across the state on Wednesday as he looks to introduce himself to Iowa voters who are notorious for wanting to see candidates close-up before they attend the caucuses for picking party nominees. Todd Jacklin of Johnston, Iowa, 62, was volunteering for the event, but that did not mean he was sold on DeSantis. He was there to listen, he said. Im going to keep things open until next February, he said. The nascent DeSantis campaign has been buttressed by a well-funded Super PAC, Never Back Down, which has taken on many of the day-to-day responsibilities of a presidential effort. At the Tuesday rally, workers for the group were asking attendees to support DeSantis in next years caucuses. Also in attendance were members of Moms for Liberty, a national conservative advocacy group that opposes liberal education policies and whose efforts in Florida have been strongly supported by DeSantis. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Foxconn, a major Apple supplier, anticipates strong demand for its server business driven by artificial intelligence (AI) applications. While the company expects a flat year overall in 2023 due to global economic challenges, Chairman Liu Young-way highlighted the positive outlook for servers due to increased interest in AI. Foxconn aims to capitalize on the rising market for AI servers, projecting a significant increase in the second half of this year. The company currently holds a 40 per cent global market share for servers and intends to further expand its presence. In the first quarter, its cloud and network products segment, including servers, accounted for 22 per cent of revenue. However, Foxconn reported a significant decline in net profit for the first quarter, emphasizing limited visibility for the full year. As part of its diversification efforts, the company aims to replicate its success in iPhone production with electric vehicles (EVs) and has acquired a former General Motors plant in Ohio. Foxconn also plans to expand its EV battery supply chain beyond Taiwan to countries such as the United States, Indonesia, and India. While the company is diversifying production away from China, it acknowledges the importance of its operations in China, including its major iPhone plant in Zhengzhou. Liu affirmed the cultural similarities and ease of starting new projects in China, emphasizing their commitment to further development in the country. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Russian-state-affiliated natural gas supplier Gazprom has had more work to do in the Ukraine war. A report by Wall Street Journal suggests that the company is actively sending men to fight on the Ukrainian frontlines. Apart from creating private security firms to recruit soldiers since February this year, Gazprom is reportedly forcing its own security personnel, made of ex-soldiers, to fight in the war. The security firms working under Gazproms ambit are usually answerable to the Russian Defence Ministry. According to the report, these firms were initially created on the pretext of defending Russia on the natural gas front. However, recruits found themselves on the battlefield days later. Gazproms war business In February, the Kremlin authorised Gazprom, Russias largest energy firm, to establish its very own security firm. One part of this firm is now known as Potok. Alexey Tkachenko, a former employee of Potok, said that two units of this security firm were put directly under Russias Ministry of Defence. As mentioned before, the recruits were hired to defend Russias energy. Soon after they began working in their newly assumed responsibilities as soldiers, many recruits took their concerns to social media, revealing the reality. A former security guard at Gazprom, Tkachenko said that he was hired by Potak only to be sent to fight in the war. He added that he received his training at the Russian base of Tambov before being sent off to Bakhmut where he and many others like him took over the erstwhile positions of Wagner mercenaries. The Wagnerites were awakened at night and told to leave. And we took their positions in the forest. Tkachenko said. One witness told WSJ that a security guard was forcibly recruited to fight in Ukraine. He was given no option but to be fired, he said. I want to tell my colleagues at Gazprom: Dont go to Ukraine, stay at home, said a former Gazprom security guard. Why is Gazprom interested in the war? According to a report by TIME, like many other energy companies, Gazprom wants to save and protect its pipelines. Gerhard Mangott, a professor at the University of Innsbruck studying Russian foreign policy said that owing to the possibilities of sabotage, securing pipelines is a prerequisite during a war. Dr Agnia Grigas, the author of The New Geopolitics of Natural Gas, said, The aims of Gazprom are not just gas business. They are to, essentially, support the national interests of the Russian Federation, and specifically, lets be honest, to maintain and support the regime of Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Russias dwindling armed forces have led to more private hirings and Gazprom chipped in. Many private firms have started establishing their own security companies to contribute to the war. These corporate-backed companies are paying higher wages than the Wagner Group or the Defence Ministry, providing a lucrative offer to the most able-bodied men ready to fight in Ukraine. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Page Content During the meeting with the COM, the Trust Fund Projects' significant achievements were recognized, which includes the Enterprise Support Project (ESP), the Income Support and Training Project (ISTP), and the increased funding for both the Sint Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) and the Emergency Recovery Project (ERP-1). The World Bank is also preparing to conclude the approval process for three additional significant projects for Sint Maarten. These pertain to wastewater, housing, and mental health. Jagha stated that Sint Maarten is the first country to have a mental health project approved; formalization will take place by the end of the second quarter while the wastewater project is expected towards the end of the year and housing for the first quarter of 2024. Furthermore, the COM was informed of new communication areas and channels which will emphasize the benefits of the Trust Fund for Sint Maarten's inhabitants and enterprises, as well as the experiences of project leaders throughout the process. By the end of June 2023, the World Bank will officially open their office in Sint Maarten, which will facilitate decision making and communication between Government, and by extension the NRPB, and the World Bank, while also strengthening Sint Maartens position within the region as a hub. Only Haiti, Guyana, and Jamaica have regional offices. The mission, which started from May 15 concludes on May 26, 2023, includes meetings with numerous stakeholders and partners to develop and strengthen communication and networks. Sint Maarten has the second largest portfolio after Haiti and is the first country to execute an agreement without being a member of the World Bank Group. Toyin Jagha, Program Manager of the Sint Maarten Trust Fund Program of the Caribbean Country Management Unit, accompanied by the Director of the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB), Claret Connor, and delegation members Staciann Cunningham and Carla Bridglal, met with the Council of Ministers (COM) on Thursday, May 25, 2023, as part of the Trust Fund Program Management Mission to Sint Maarten.The COM Ministers thanked the Program Manager for the positive updates and looks forward to continuing strengthening collaboration with the World Bank in the best interest of Sint Maarten. Berlin: The German government said Wednesday that it has told Russia to close four out of five consulates in Germany in a tit-for-tat move after Moscow set a limit for the number of staff at the German embassy and related bodies in Russia. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Christofer Burger told reporters in Berlin that the measure is intended to create a parity of personnel and structures between the two countries. The Russian government recently said that an upper limit of 350 German government officials, including those working in cultural bodies and schools, can remain in Russia. Burger said this means Germany will have to shut its consulates in Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk and Kaliningrad by November. Only the embassy in Moscow and the consulate in St. Petersburg will remain open, he said. He said Russia will be allowed to continue operating the embassy in Berlin and one further consulate after the end of the year. The move reflects a new low in relations between Moscow and Berlin since Russias attack on Ukraine in February 2022. Burger said the move was regrettable, but added that the war meant there was simply no basis for numerous bilateral activities between the two countries anymore. But it is the behaviour of the Russian side that has brought us into this situation, he said. Lisbon: Portugals environmental protection agency gave a green light Wednesday for a massive lithium mine that could become western Europes biggest and give a boost to the continents growing electric car industry. The southern European nation is thought to have the continents largest reserves of lithium, a vital raw material to produce the batteries that power electric vehicles. With lithium mostly mined in Australia and South America and China dominating the supply chain, the environmental regulators decision could bolster Europes effort to secure independent supplies of the coveted resource. The agency said the Barroso project in northern Portugal, which is owned by British group Savannah Resources, obtained a positive declaration of environmental impact, under several conditions. The original proposal was considerably modified for the protection of waterways and biodiversity, the agency said in a statement. Savannah Resources said the approval was a key decision allowing the project to move to the next stage of the environmental licensing process. This is an extremely important step forward, not only in the development of the Project, but also in the development of the lithium raw material industry in Portugal, said Savannah chief executive Dale Ferguson. Environmentalists and local residents opposed to the project in the rural area criticised the agencys decision. The chosen site is not good given its location near inhabited areas and pollution risks, said Francisco Ferreira, president of Zero, an environmental group. Environment Minister Duarte Cordeiro sought to ease concerns, saying the agencys decision will minimise the impact on the environment. In addition to the Savannah project near the town of Boticas, Portuguese firm Lusorecursos is planning its own in the neighbouring town of Montalegre while the government has launched an international tender for offers to prospect for lithium in six regions of Portugal. The European Union is racing to build up its own supply chain to produce electric vehicles, from mining raw materials to building battery factories as it has set a 2035 deadline to phase out the sale of new fossil fuel vehicles. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Former Prime Minister of Pakistan and PTI Chairman Imran Khan has sent a notice of PKR 10 billion to Dr Rizwan Taj, the doctor heading the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) medical board that prepared and released the ex-premiers medical report, after his arrest. The move came a day after, Khan sent a defamation notice to Health Minister Abdul Qadir Patel for making false claims about his health, The notice stated that the information shared in the report, of Imrans tests conducted after his arrest on May 9, was false, untrue, baseless and defamatory in nature. It asked Dr Taj to pay PKR 10 billion for deliberate and malicious representations through the preparation of a fabricated and false medical report of the client. It warned that failure to do the above within 14 days will result in legal proceedings being initiated against the doctor, possibly including proceedings under the Defamation Ordinance 2002, criminal proceedings and filing of a complaint against him before the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council and other relevant forums. Shameful press conference of Federal Health Minister Abdul Qadir Patel. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insafs decision to take full legal action against the Minister of Health and his assistants. Chairman Tehreek-e-Insaf Imran Khan approved to bring Abdul Qadir Patel, NAB, Ministry of Health and doctors of Pims Hospital to justice. The legal team of Chairman Tehreek-e-Insaf under the leadership of Barrister Abuzar Salman Niazi has started preparations. Abdul Qadir Patels embarrassing press conference and baseless accusations will be dealt with under other laws including defamation, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf wrote on Twitter earlier this week. Pakistan Health Minister Abdul Qadir Patel last Friday, citing details of former prime minister Imran Khans medical report, said it indicated excessive alcohol consumption, no information about a fracture on his leg, and unstable mental health, Geo News reported. Patel was informing reporters in Karachi about the former prime ministers medical report after he underwent an examination at PIMS Hospital following his arrest on May 9. At the outset of the press conference, the health minister, before sharing the reports details, said that it was a public document. He said that the report does not have any details about the fracture on his foot, which Khan claimed he sustained following the November 3 assassination bid. He [Imran Khan] had a plaster on his foot for about five to six months, however, the medical report did not indicate any fracture, he added. The minister said that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chiefs urine sample was also taken. He said that the initial report shows toxic elements and the excessive usage of alcohol and cocaine, Geo News reported. Geo News is one of the leading media houses in Pakistan with online as well as presence on television. The Pakistan Health Minister further said that the report also mentioned Khans mental health, according to which, his actions and body language are not those of a fit man. The report stated that a person with stable mental health does not make these kinds of gestures, he said. I also used to say that Imran Khans mental condition is not well, said Patel, adding that the PTI chief has ended decency in politics, political tolerance and respect for others. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a three-day visit to South Africa starting Thursday. He will participate in a conclave of five-nation grouping BRICS in Capetown. After concluding his South Africa visit, Jaishankar will travel to Namibia from June 4 to 6, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The external affairs minister will visit South Africa from June 1 to 3 to participate in the BRICS foreign ministers meeting being held in Capetown, the MEA said in a statement. The BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) brings together five of the largest developing countries of the world, representing 41 per cent of the global population, 24 per cent of the global GDP and 16 per cent of the global trade. Besides attending the BRICS meeting in Capetown, Jaishankar will also hold a bilateral meeting with his South African counterpart Naledi Pandor. He will call on the President of South Africa and is expected to hold bilateral meetings with other BRICS foreign ministers and participate in Friends of BRICS. Jaishankar will also have an interaction with the Indian diaspora in Capetown, the MEA said. His visit to Namibia will be the first by an external affairs minister of India to the African nation. During the visit the external affairs minister will call on the top leadership of the country and also meet with other ministers of the government, the MEA said. It said Jaishankar will also co-chair the inaugural session of the joint commission meeting with the Namibian deputy prime minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. He will also interact with the Indian diaspora based in Namibia. The external affairs ministers visit to South Africa and Namibia is expected to further strengthen Indias strong bilateral relations with these two countries, the MEA said. (With inputs from PTI) Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. In a major blow to separatist group Sikhs for Justice, the Khalistan Referendum Plan for Sydney Masonic Centre in Australia which was scheduled for June 4 has been cancelled. According to reports in the Australian media, the Sydney Masonic Centre decided to cancel the event after hundreds of complaints by the Indian diaspore in Australia. Masonic Centre has, this morning, cancelled this booking as it is in conflict with adopted Masonic policy and due to risks to Masonic staff, assets and members of the public which cannot be practicably mitigated, a spokesperson for the Sydney Masonic Centre was quoted as saying by The Australian. We did not understand the nature of this Khalistan event at the time of booking, However after lots of deliberations decision was taken that Sydney Masonic Centre does not want to be part of any event which can potentially bring harm to the community, she added. Australian law enforcement agencies such as NSW Police, ASIO, AFP and DFAT were also reportedly involved in the decision. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had assured his Indian counterpart that his government will take strict action against Khalistani elements when PM Narendra Modi visited Australia earlier this month. The Indian government had urged the Australian government to take action against Khalistani sympathisers during PM Modis visit. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. NATOs head expressed cautious optimism Tuesday about welcoming Sweden into the alliance, as the US pressured Turkey to remove its reservations two days after President Tayyip Recep Erdogan was re-elected. Sweden and Finland formally applied to join NATO last year after Russia invaded Ukraine, which had previously attempted but failed to join the alliance whose members agree to defend one another. However, choices must be consensual, and Turkey has used its clout to pressure the two nations over the presence of Kurdish terrorists, allowing Finland to join NATO in April but continuing to exclude Sweden. Swedens accession, according to Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, is within reach in time for the NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, from 11 July to 12 July. There are no guarantees but its absolutely possible to reach a solution and enable the decision on full membership for Sweden by then, Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo on the eve of a NATO foreign ministers meeting to prepare for the summit. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, visiting Sweden on his way to Oslo, said the Swedish government had addressed Turkish concerns. The time is now to finalise Swedens accession, Blinken told a news conference with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in the northern Swedish city of Lulea. We urge both Turkey and Hungary which also has not yet ratified to ratify the accession as quickly as possible, Blinken said. There is no reason for any further time. Sweden is ready now. Blinken said the United States wanted the process to be completed in the weeks ahead but stopped short of saying if he was certain it would be finished by the summit. New Turkish anger Erdogan, Turkeys leader for two decades, won another five-year term on Sunday after a campaign in which he vowed to stand up to the West. He has accused Sweden, with its generous asylum policies, of being a haven for terrorists, especially members of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) which is outlawed by Ankara. Despite the rising hopes of accession, Sweden once again drew Turkish ire on Tuesday as Turkey deplored an unacceptable protest by activists in Sweden aimed at Ankara. The pro-Kurdish Rojava Committee of Sweden posted an anti-Erdogan video on social networks on Monday showing a PKK flag being projected onto the Swedish parliament, the latest of several similar provocations by the group. Stoltenberg said he was in constant contact with Turkish authorities to try to lift the final obstacles to Swedens accession. Blinken played down any connection between Swedens membership and a potential US sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey, though President Joe Biden appeared to draw a link in remarks to reporters after a congratulatory call to Erdogan. These are distinct issues. Both, though, are vital in our judgement to European security, Blinken said. The Biden administration earlier this year indicated its support for a $20 billion F-16 package for Turkey including 40 new jets and upgrades on 79 existing planes. But Congress looks likely to block the sale, with Bob Menendez, the powerful chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, voicing alarm that Erdogan would use the advanced warplanes to intimidate or even attack fellow NATO ally Greece. Sweden and Finland, while close defence partners of the West, had officially remained non-aligned militarily out of fear of angering their giant neighbour Russia. Kristersson told Blinken that Lulea, where US and European officials will meet Wednesday on trade and technology issues, was a six-and-a-half-hour drive from the border with Russia. Filling the territorial gap in the North will be one of Swedens many security contributions to NATO when we join the alliance, Kristersson said. Hungary, whose hard-right government has tense relations with much of the European Union, has also refused to give its blessing to Sweden, though it is largely seen as following Turkeys lead. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. NATO countries have started Arctic military exercises with a pledge to defend their newest member, Finland, which is hosting its first joint training since becoming part of the Western Alliance in April this year. According to reports, nearly 1,000 allied forces from Norway, the UK, the US and NATO applicant Sweden joined approximately 6,500 Finnish troops this week. The addition of Finland doubles the length of the border NATO shares with Russia, which launched a large-scale invasion of another neighbour, Ukraine, in February last year. Russias invasion of Ukraine convinced Sweden and Finland last year to ditch long-held policies of military non-alignment and seek the security of NATOs collective defence commitment. Overseeing the exercise just a two-hour drive from the Russian border at one of Europes largest artillery training grounds in Rovajarvi, northern Finland, Major General Gregory Anderson from the 10th Mountain Division of the U.S. Army said his country stood ready to defend Finland. We are here, we are committed. The U.S. Army is here training with our newest NATO ally to build that capability, to help defend Finland if anything happened, Anderson said. His troops practised on the ground with their Multiple Launch Rocket Systems shipped from Germany, while their Finnish counterparts fired their Leopard 2A6 tanks, the Swedes and the Norwegians fired from CV90 infantry fighting vehicles and the UK troops deployed Warrior tanks. Sweden remains Finlands closest military partner and is also both politically and tactically ready to defend its Nordic neighbour, the commander of the Swedish land forces said. Its of no question at all. We have prepared plans on what to do if we are to be part of the defence of Finland, Major General Karl Engelbrektson said. Ilmari Laukkanen, a 20-year-old Finnish conscript who operated a field gun in the exercise but in his civilian life works at a family farm near the Russian border, said he would be ready to fight for Finlands new allies if needs be. Of course I would. If we are given something good then we give in return, Laukkanen told Reuters. Thea Rimmereid, 21, from Norways northern Porsanger Battalion, when asked if she felt ready to defend Finland said she had only been in the military for 13 months. But we will do the best if we need to, Rimmereid said. Exercise leader Colonel Janne Makitalo said NATO allies should be cautious about drawing quick conclusions on their military procurement needs from the footage they see from Ukraine. Russia is currently able to destroy, on a monthly basis, about 10,000 Ukrainian UAVs (uncrewed aerial vehicles), Makitalo said. Expensive technological solutions might look good on YouTube, he said, but they can be easily detectable in a real war situation. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachanda, is scheduled to arrive in India on Wednesday for a four-day official visit, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. Dahal, who took office in December of last year, will visit India from 31 May to 3 June at the request of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his visit, Nepals Prime Minister will also meet with President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The Nepalese Prime Minister will arrive in Delhi at 2:50 p.m. on Wednesday at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Dahal will begin his agenda the next day (Thursday) by placing a wreath at Mahatma Gandhis monument at 10:30 a.m. The Nepalese Prime Minister has a number of meetings scheduled for Wednesday, the most important of which is one with Prime Minister Modi at 11 a.m. at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. Dahal will also preside over the signing of agreements and the publication of press releases at the same location at approximately noon. The Nepalese Prime Minister will pay a visit to Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar at his official house on Maulana Azad Road at 4 p.m. Dahal will thereafter pay a visit to President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Apart from his official engagements, on the second day of his visit, Dahal will emplane to attend a programme in Indore. He is also likely to visit Ujjain, according to MEA. He will depart for Kathmandu on June 3, Saturday at 4.20 pm. A high-level delegation will accompany Nepal PM Dahal during his visit. PM Dahal will also hold extensive talks with Prime Minister Modi on diverse areas of the bilateral partnership between India and Nepal, the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official statement. Several other Indian dignitaries will call on the Nepalese Prime Minister as well. The visit continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between India and Nepal in furtherance of the Neighbourhood First policy. The bilateral relations between the two countries have significantly strengthened in the last few years in all areas of cooperation. This visit demonstrates the importance that both sides place on accelerating the bilateral partnership between the two nations. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. North Koreas attempt to launch a military reconnaissance satellite ended in failure when the second stage of the rocket failed, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The launch, on the first day of a 12-day window it had announced to put the satellite into orbit, took place early on Wednesday. The new satellite vehicle rocket, Chollima-1, crashed into the West Sea as it lost propulsion due to an abnormal startup of the engine on the 2nd stage after the 1st stage was separated during normal flight, KCNA said. Authorities will thoroughly investigate the serious defects revealed in the satellite launch, take urgent scientific and technological measures to overcome them and conduct the second launch as soon as possible, the statement added. Pyongyang does not have a functioning satellite in space and leader Kim Jong Un has made developing a military spy satellite a top priority for his regime, personally overseeing some launch preparations. South Koreas military had detected the launch of the satellite, which it said disappeared from radar early and fell into the sea due to abnormal flight, the Joint Chiefs of Staff said. North Korea on Tuesday confirmed it planned to launch what it called military reconnaissance satellite No 1 before 11 June, having told Japan of its plans a day earlier. Tokyo and Seoul strongly criticised the proposed launch, which they said would violate UN sanctions barring Pyongyang from any tests involving ballistic missile technology. Because long-range rockets and space launchers share the same technology, analysts say developing the ability to put a satellite in orbit would provide Pyongyang with cover for testing banned intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Soon after the launch, Seoul city authorities sent an emergency text message alert to residents saying: Citizens, please prepare to evacuate and allow children and the elderly to evacuate first as an air raid siren sounded in central Seoul. The alert prompted consternation and confusion on Twitter before Seouls interior ministry minutes later said the alert had been incorrectly issued. Monitoring US military Kim stayed true to his word and launched the spy satellite today, said Soo Kim, policy practice area lead at LMI Consulting and a former CIA analyst. We know that Kims determination does not end with this recent activity, she said, adding that the launch could be a foreshadowing of greater provocations, including the nuclear test we have been speculating on for quite some time. Since 1998, Pyongyang has launched five satellites, three of which failed immediately and two of which appeared to have been put into orbit but signals from those launches have never been independently detected, indicating they may have malfunctioned. North Korea said Tuesday its new spy satellite would be indispensable to tracking, monitoring and coping with in advance in real time the dangerous military acts of the US and its vassal forces. Criticising US-South Korea joint military exercises, including ongoing large-scale live-fire drills, a top North Korean military official said Pyongyang felt the need to expand reconnaissance and information means and improve various defensive and offensive weapons, state media reported. In 2012 and 2016, Pyongyang tested ballistic missiles that it called satellite launches. Both flew over Japans southern Okinawa region. Japan briefly activated its missile alert warning system for the Okinawa region early Wednesday, lifting it after about 30 minutes. Price and pain Since diplomatic efforts collapsed in 2019, North Korea has doubled down on military development, conducting a string of banned weapons tests, including test-firing multiple ICBMs. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un last year declared his country an irreversible nuclear power and called for an exponential increase in weapons production, including tactical nukes. Whether or not North Koreas current satellite mission is a success, Pyongyang can be expected to issue political propaganda about its space capabilities, Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul. South Koreas foreign ministry earlier this week condemned the launch plan, saying the so-called satellite launch is a serious violation of UN Security Council resolutions banning all launches using ballistic missile technology. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. North Koreas launch of a ballistic missile violated UN Security Council resolutions, Japan warned Wednesday, following what Pyongyang said was a failed satellite launch. According to Japanese government spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno, as a ballistic missile launch like this one violates relevant UN Security Council resolutions, Japan firmly protested against North Korea and strongly condemned the launch. The hermit state announced on Tuesday that it planned to launch a military surveillance satellite before 11 June, having informed Japan of its plans the day before. Because long-range rockets and space launchers employ the same technology, researchers believe Pyongyang would gain cover for testing banned intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) by obtaining the capacity to place a satellite in orbit. We cannot tolerate this kind of launch whether it is a satellite or anything else, as it violates UN resolutions, Japans Defence Minister Yasukazu Hamada told reporters. Japan briefly activated its missile alert warning system for the southern Okinawa region on Wednesday morning. But North Korean state media said the satellite had crashed into the sea soon after launch as an accident occurred during its flight. Matsuno said the government presumed that the projectile disappeared in the air above the Yellow Sea and that no object was put into outer space. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said earlier Wednesday that North Korea had launched what appears to be a ballistic missile but that there had been no reports of damage. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. EQS-Ad-hoc: Gigaset AG / Key word(s): Personnel/AGM/EGM Shareholder proposals for elections to the Supervisory Board by the Annual General Meeting on 15 June 2023 and possible change in the chairmanship of the Supervisory Board 31-May-2023 / 20:08 CET/CEST Disclosure of an inside information acc. to Article 17 MAR of the Regulation (EU) No 596/2014, transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group AG. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Ad hoc announcement WKN: 515600 / WKN A14KQ7 Bocholt, 31 May 2023 Shareholder proposals for elections to the Supervisory Board by the Annual General Meeting on 15 June 2023 and possible change in the chairmanship of the Supervisory Board Bocholt, 31 May 2023 [20:09 hours] - Gigaset AG today received countermotions and election proposals from the shareholder Ludic GmbH against proposals of the administration for resolutions at the Annual General Meeting to be held on 15 June 2023. Ludic GmbH announces, among other things, that it will reject the election proposals of the Supervisory Board for the re-election of the current Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Mr. Helvin Wong, as well as of Mr. Paolo Di Fraia and Mr. Ulrich Burkhardt. Mr. Andreas Tenhofen is newly proposed for election to the Supervisory Board of Gigaset AG. Ludic GmbH had already submitted a request for additions to the agenda on 12 May 2023, inter alia, for the reduction of the Supervisory Board to four members, which was published by Gigaset AG in the Federal Gazette on 19 May 2023. Should the election proposals of Ludic GmbH find the necessary majorities at the Annual General Meeting, the incumbent Chairman of the Supervisory Board Mr. Helvin Wong would not be re-elected. The Supervisory Board of Gigaset AG, which would consist of four members after a possible reduction in size, would, according to the proposal of Ludic GmbH, be composed of the current members Ms. Barbara Munch, Mr. Rainer Koppitz, Ms. Jenny Pan and Mr. Andreas Tenhofen as a new member. According to current information, the Executive Board of Gigaset AG still does not assume that Goldin Fund Pte. Ltd. with a voting interest of 72.32 % in Gigaset AG will participate in the Annual General Meeting and exercise its voting rights. Ludic GmbH currently holds almost 3 % of the voting rights in Gigaset AG, so that the election proposals of Ludic GmbH could find the necessary majorities at the Annual General Meeting on 15 June 2023, taking into account the registrations of previous years. The Executive Board of Gigaset AG is currently reviewing the countermotions and election proposals submitted and will make them available on the Company's website if the review is positive. Gigaset AG, Bocholt, is an internationally active company in the field of communications technology. The company is Europe's market leader in DECT phones and is also a leading international player with around 900 employees and sales activities in over 50 countries. In addition to DECT phones, its business activities include Android-based smartphones, cloud-based smart home applications and business telephony solutions for SMEs and enterprise customers. The traditional company is characterised in a special way by its "Made in Germany" production. The company is headquartered in Bocholt, Germany. Furthermore, a software development centre is maintained in Wroclaw, Poland, as well as numerous sales offices in Europe and Asia. Gigaset AG is listed in the Prime Standard of the German Stock Exchange and is therefore subject to the highest transparency requirements. The shares are traded on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol GGS (ISIN: DE0005156004). The United Nations said Tuesday that operations to recover 1.1 million barrels of oil from a rotting tanker stranded off Yemens coast will begin shortly after a technical support ship arrived on the scene. For years, United Nations authorities have warned that the Safer tanker might leak four times as much oil as the 1989 Exxon Valdez catastrophe off the coast of Alaska. The Ndeavor tanker, accompanied by a technical team from Boskalis/SMIT, has arrived at the Safer tanker off the coast of Yemens Ras Isa, according to UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Yemen David Gressley, who is on board the Ndeavor. The conflict in Yemen forced the Safers repair activities to be halted in 2015. The United Nations has warned that its structural integrity has deteriorated dramatically and that it is on the verge of bursting. The United Nations began a fundraising effort, including a crowdsourcing campaign, to gather the $129 million required to transfer the oil from the Safer to a new tanker, the Nautica, which set sail from China in early April. The United Nations has stated that the recovery operation cannot be funded by the sale of the oil since it is unclear who owns it. Work at sea will start very soon. Additional funding is still important to finish the process, the U.N said on its Yemen Twitter account. Yemen has been mired in conflict since the Iran-aligned Houthi group ousted the government from the capital Sanaa in late 2014. A Saudi Arabia-led military coalition intervened in 2015 aiming to restore the government. Peace initiatives have seen increased momentum since Riyadh and Tehran in March agreed to restore diplomatic ties severed in 2016. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Pakistan has blocked as many as 100 social media accounts for pushing out sectarian, anti-state, terrorist and anti-Islamic posts. The Federal Investigation Agency has blocked 106 social media accounts on platforms like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, the police told Dawn. The step was taken in response to the findings of the Provisional of Violent Extremism Unit (PVE) of the capital polices Counterterrorism Department (CTD). So far, the unit has authorised blocking a total number of 203 accounts, 164 of which are on Twitter, 38 on Facebook and one on YouTube. Out of these, 106 have been already blocked. The Counterterrorism Department of Pakistan made several requests to the FIA for the closure of the accounts in question. They also provided the details of these accounts, along with screenshots of illegal activities. According to a recent report by The Express Tribune, the Pakistani government is currently working on a way to compel social media platforms to register themselves in Pakistan. Pakistan Peoples Party Senator Rubina Khalid has said that the government appeared to be helpless on the issue of blasphemous and derogatory content on the internet. She added that the matter had been taken up several times during the meetings of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and it was the responsibility of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to take action against such content. Minister of State for Law and Justice Shahadat Awan replied that online hate speech against any religion would be blocked immediately. With inputs from ANI Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The ongoing crisis in Pakistan seems to be never-ending with the countrys Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah on Tuesday said that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chief Imran Khan will be tried in a military court for the events of May 9 violence. The development comes amid a government crackdown on Khans opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party and its supporters over the violent demonstrations that followed Khans arrest earlier this month in Islamabad. In an interview with the Pakistani publication, Sanaullah accused Imran of personally carrying out the planning of the attacks on military installations before his arrest on the day, adding that there was evidence to prove the claim as well. When asked if Imran would be tried in the military court, Sanaullah said, Absolutely, why shouldnt he? The programme that he made to target the military installations and then had it executed, in my understanding absolutely is a case of a military court. The interior minister accused the PTI chief of personally orchestrating the May 9 riots. They (PTI supporters) chanted a slogan that Imran Khan is our red line, and the planning and preparation were done on Imran Khans initiative and instigation. He carried it all out. He is the architect of all this discord, adding that there was evidence present to back the accusation as well.[The evidence] is documented, it is in tweets and his messages, he added. When asked how Imran was able to communicate with his party leaders even from jail, the interior minister replied, All this [planning] was decided before he went [to jail] that who will do what and where. And when he is arrested, what would be the strategy and duties? All of this was decided. Sanaullahs remarks come a day after Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that there was no decision yet on Imrans trial under the Army Act, adding, however, that he could not rule out such a possibility, Dawn reported. For days, Khans followers attacked public property and military installations across the country. The violence subsided only after Khan was released on orders of Pakistans Supreme Court. At least 10 people were killed in clashes between Khans supporters and police. The protesters stormed the residence of the corps commander in Lahore, called Jinnah House, and tore down a gate of General Headquarters in Rawalpindi. The riots had elicited a strong reaction from the government and military with vows of taking action against the culprits, leading to an ongoing crackdown against those involved, Dawn reported. Punjab Police had also previously claimed that Imran and his close aides allegedly coordinated efforts to storm the residence of the Lahore corps commander and other buildings. Police had detected over 400 calls made by the PTI chairman and other senior leaders to allegedly incite party workers to move towards the military officers residence in Lahore Cantt, and other sensitive public buildings, Dawn reported. It was observed that all the rioters were in contact with the PTI top leadership, based in Zaman Park. Punjab Inspector General of Police Usman Anwar confirmed the use of Imrans residence for planning the attack on the corps commanders residence. Meanwhile, the government has okayed the use of military courts to try the suspects of the May 9 riots. Sanaullah had said on Friday that 33 suspects, 19 in Punjab and 14 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, were handed over to the military. On Monday, a Rawalpindi anti-terrorism court (ATC) also directed the superintendent of the garrison citys Adiala Jail to hand over eight suspects to the military for trial. On Thursday, Khan proposed talks between the government and his party with the aim to end the ongoing political turmoil. The government has not responded to the offer. On Friday, Khan claimed that several of his party officials and lawmakers have quit at gunpoint and have not left his camp because of the rioting by his supporters, as some have said. Separately from the political turmoil, Pakistan is also struggling with an unprecedented economic downturn. Talks between the government of Khans successor, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, and the International Monetary Fund for the revival of the $6 billion bailout package have been on the hold since December. Khan has claimed that his April 2022 ouster in a no-confidence vote in Parliament was illegal and a conspiracy by Sharif, Washington and the military to discredit him. All three have denied the allegations. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. In Canada, every cigarette pack will start carrying a health warning message from August 1 in the countrys bid to crack down on smoking. The warnings will contain include messages like Poison in every puff, Tobacco smoke harms children and Cigarettes cause cancer, the countrys addiction minister said. Addictions Minister Carolyn Bennett said tobacco use continues to kill 48,000 Canadians each year. The new labelling rule is a world first, she said, although Britain has flirted with a similar regulation. This bold step will make health warning messages virtually unavoidable and, together with updated graphic images displayed on the package, will provide a real and startling reminder of the health consequences of smoking, Bennett said. A study commissioned by the Canadian government showed that some young people particularly susceptible to tobacco addiction started smoking when a cigarette was offered to them but those given the pack with the warning repulsed. Notably, Canada was the first country to implement graphic warnings like grisly pictorials of diseased hearts and lungs on cigarette packs in 2000. Smoking has been trending down over the past two decades. Ottawa aims to further reduce the number of smokers in the country to five percent of the population, or about 2 million people, by 2035 from about 13 percent currently. According to government data, almost half of the countrys healthcare costs are linked to substance use. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. In its latest report on the Ukraine war, the British defence ministry has claimed that Russia has ceded the initiative in the conflict. According to the UK Ministry of Defence, since the start of the Ukraine war in May 2023, Russia has increasingly ceded the initiative in the conflict and is reacting to Ukrainian action rather than actively progressing towards its own war aims. During May 2023, Russia has launched 20 nights of one-way-attack uncrewed aerial vehicle and cruise missile attacks deep inside Ukraine. Russia has had little success in its likely aims of neutralising Ukraines improved air defences and destroying Ukrainian counter-attack forces. On the ground, it has redeployed security forces to react to partisan attacks inside western Russia. Operationally, Russian commanders are likely attempting to generate reserve forces and position them where they believe a Ukrainian counter-attack will occur. However, this has probably been undermined by uncommitted forces instead being sent to fill gaps in the front line around Bakhmut.7 Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. A woman in her twenties from Saudi Arabia was arrested for allegedly maintaining Twitter and Snapchat accounts that not only supported recent social changes but also demanded greater fundamental rights within the country. Despite projecting an image of a nation that has relaxed its stringent regulations regarding women, such as dress codes and employment opportunities, as part of a broader campaign to promote tourism and the country itself, the Saudi government continues to crack down on Saudi women who demand more fundamental reforms. Manahel al-Otaibi, a 29-year-old certified fitness instructor and artist who frequently advocated for female empowerment through her social media platforms, was apprehended in November 2022. Saudi authorities leveled various accusations against Otaibi, including the use of a hashtag, translated as #societyisready, which called for an end to male guardianship regulations. Otaibis case is still ongoing, and no conviction or sentencing has been issued yet. However, previous instances with similar circumstances indicate that public demands for essential womens rights, such as inheritance rights and the ability to terminate marriages with abusive partners, have been considered as acts of sedition. This incident serves as another illustration of individuals in Saudi Arabia being arrested and imprisoned for utilizing social media accounts to advocate for reform or question the actions of Saudi authorities. Otaibis social media presence showcases her as a youthful and progressive woman who enjoys fitness, art, yoga, and traveling, while also championing womens rights. According to Lina al-Hathloul, a Saudi activist residing outside the country and serving as the head of monitoring and advocacy for the human rights group ALQST, the cases involving Manahel al-Otaibi are yet another demonstration of Saudi Arabias hollow promises regarding reforms. Saudi women continue to face imprisonment and sham trials for demanding their rights or simply believing that they are now free to choose their attire. Court documents reveal that, apart from her social media usage, which was reported to the authorities by the religious police, Otaibi is accused of not wearing decent clothing. Her sister, Fouz al-Otaibi, also faced accusations of immodest dress but managed to escape Saudi Arabia before her arrest. Another sister, Maryam, is a well-known advocate for womens rights who was previously detained, held, and eventually released in 2017 for protesting against guardianship rules. Khalid Aljabri, a Saudi expert and frequent commentator on US-Saudi relations, states that Manahels case exemplifies the hypocrisy and selective application of oppressive laws by the Saudi government. While the government allows foreign Instagram models to promote tourism by sharing pictures in swimsuits, Saudi women are imprisoned for posting photos without wearing abayas. The government of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has consistently targeted Twitter users as part of a broader campaign of domestic and international repression. This campaign involved infiltrating the company with spies to access confidential user data related to anonymous Twitter accounts perceived as threats to the royal family. Interestingly, the Crown Prince maintains significant indirect influence over Twitter through the kingdoms sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF). Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. A recent study has unveiled that Earth possesses a new moon or rather a quasi-moon. A quasi-moon refers to a space rock that orbits the Earth but is gravitationally tied to the sun. This quasi-moon, named 2023 FW13, was identified by experts utilizing the Pan-STARRS telescope situated atop Hawaiis Haleakala volcano. It is among the few known quasi-moons or satellites that we know of in our solar system. Also read: For ISRO, the Moon is not enough. Know why Scientists believe that this ancient cosmic companion has been in close proximity to Earth since 100 BC and will continue its orbit around our planet for at least another 1,500 years, until AD 3700. Fortunately, both 2023 FW13 and a similar quasi-moon called 469219 Kamooalewa are not considered to pose any threat to human life. What are quasi-satellites? Quasi-moons, also referred to as quasi-satellites, often exhibit an orbital pattern that resembles our natural satellite, the moon (affectionately known as Luna). However, the prefix quasi is utilized because these objects are gravitationally bound to the sun rather than Earth, unlike Luna, where Earths gravity prevails. 2023 FW13 stands apart from our moon as it orbits well beyond Earths Hill sphere, which defines the region around a celestial body where its own gravitational force dominates in attracting satellites. Earths Hill sphere has a radius of 932,000 miles (1.5 million km), whereas the distance between Earth and 2023 FW13 is significantly larger, approximately 1.6 million miles. Also read: Moon Master: Saturn loses the crown of having the most number of moons to Jupiter Alan Harris, a senior research scientist at the Space Science Institute in Boulder, Colorado, explained to Sky & Telescope that the scale of the loop, with a radius of about 0.18 astronomical units, is so immense that Earth plays a negligible role in the motion of 2023 FW13. He emphasized that [2023 FW13 is] in no way associated with Earth other than by chance. How was the most recent quasi-moon, 2023 FW13 discovered? On March 28, the PanSTARRS telescope initially detected 2023 FW13 before its existence was verified by multiple other telescopes. Once confirmed, 2023 FW13 was included in the catalogue of the Minor Planet Center at the International Astronomical Union (IAU). While the precise size of 2023 FW13 remains uncertain, asteroid specialist Richard Binzel estimates its diameter to be around 30 to 50 feet (10 to 15 meters). This dimension is merely a minuscule fraction compared to the moon, which spans 2,159 miles. What makes 2023 FW13 qualify as a moon? Its worth noting that a celestial body is classified as a moon-based on its orbital characteristics rather than its size. The orbit of 2023 FW13 around the sun takes nearly the same amount of time as Earth, approximately 365.42 days (equivalent to 1.0005 Earth years). During its orbital journey around Earth, its path is highly elongated, extending halfway towards Mars and inward halfway towards Venus. Earth has various recognized cosmic companions, with many being quasi-satellites. However, as exemplified by 2023 FW13, there are likely numerous others yet to be discovered. Quasi-satellites typically follow a stable trajectory around Earth for several decades before eventually departing from the planets orbit. 2023 FW13 holds a unique distinction as it has remained in its quasi-state for centuries and is projected to continue in this state for many more centuries, according to amateur astronomer Tony Dunn. Dunn has developed an online simulator that displays the orbit of 2023 FW13 in relation to the moon, the sun, and other planets within the solar system. Earths other famous quasi-satellite Another well-known quasi-satellite, named 469219 Kamooalewa or 2016 HO3, was also discovered by PanSTARRS in April 2016. This quasi-satellite has a diameter of up to 330 feet and is expected to remain in its current orbit for approximately 300 years in the future, as suggested by Renu Malhotra, an expert from the University of Arizona. Also read: Cold War 2030: China, US in space race, Beijings next-gen rocket to take humans to the Moon by 2030 Malhotra recently conducted a study proposing that 469219 Kamooalewa could be an ancient fragment of our moon. The analysis of the light reflected from this space rock indicates that it is composed of the same materials found in lunar rocks collected during NASAs Apollo missions. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. As many as 17 entities and individuals in China and Mexico have been slapped with sanctions by the US over their involvement in the illegal production of counterfeit fentanyl-laced pills. The move comes after President Joe Biden and his administration vowed to strictly monitor imports of one of the most deadly drugs. The Treasury Department said it slapped sanctions on seven entities and six people based in China, as well as one business and three people based in Mexico. The department revealed that the individuals were involved in the sale of pill press machines and other equipment used to counterfeit trade markings like Xanax and M30 onto illicitly produced pills, often laced with fentanyl and destined for the United States. Treasurys sanctions target every stage of the deadly supply chain fueling the surge in fentanyl poisonings and deaths across the country, Treasurys Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson said in a statement. Counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl constitute a leading cause of these deaths, devastating thousands of American families each year. We remain committed to using all authorities against enablers of illicit drug production to disrupt this deadly global production and counter the threat posed by these drugs. Synthetic opioid fentanyl-related deaths have skyrocketed in the US since 2016 through 2021, according to a report by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released this month. Surpassing hard drugs like heroin and morphine, fentanyl is over 50 to 100 times stronger. It has increasingly been laced with other illicit drugs causing lethal consequences. The Biden administration has been pushing for action as US drug-related overdose deaths surpassed 100,000 in 2021, according to government estimates. With respect to this, Washington has been urging Beijing to stop the illicit trade of fentanyl precursor chemicals from China. However, US officials have told Reuters that their Chinese counterparts have been reluctant to even cooperate. The spokesperson for Chinas Washington embassy, Liu Pengyu, condemned the Treasury move, saying Washington had brazenly sanctioned Chinese individuals and entities and this would add more obstacles to China-US counter-narcotics cooperation. Liu called it a serious violation of the lawful rights and interests of the companies and individuals concerned and said Washington was attempting to deflect blame instead of working to reduce the demand and strengthen the management of prescription drugs. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Sudans Army on Wednesday suspended talks with rival paramilitary force RSF over a ceasefire and aid access, Reuters quoted a Sudanese diplomatic source said, raising fears the six-week-old conflict will push Africas third-largest nation deeper into a humanitarian crisis. The negotiations with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which began in early May, had produced a declaration of commitments to protect civilians and two short-term ceasefire deals, although those deals were repeatedly violated. Residents had reported heavy clashes in southern Khartoum and in Omdurman across the River Nile until late on Tuesday. The Army, which relies on airpower and artillery, and the RSF, a more lightly armed force but a tough adversary in Khartoum street battles, had agreed to extend a week-long ceasefire deal by five days just before its Monday expiry. Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, a career military officer, and RSF General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, a former militia commander known as Hemedti, have been locked in a battle for power since 15 April. Neither side seems to have an edge. We do not want to use lethal force. We still havent used our maximum strength We dont want to destroy the country, Burhan said in a military video released on Tuesday, speaking to cheering forces at a military base with a gun slung on his back But if the enemy does not obey and does not respond we will be forced to use the strongest force we have, he said. The RSF said in a statement late on Tuesday it was committed to the ceasefire despite repeated violations by the army. Sudan has a history of political upheaval, coups and conflicts, but violence has usually hit regions far from Khartoum. This time, fighting has centred on the capital, an urban sprawl at the confluence of the Blue and White Nile rivers and home to millions of people. Commenting on the Sudanese armys withdrawal from the Jeddah talks, Mohamed El Hacen Lebatt, African Union spokesperson on the crisis in Sudan, said: It is not surprising. It happens often. We hope the mediator will succeed to bring both parties for working on expected ceasefire. The capital has seen widespread looting and frequent power and water supply cuts. Most hospitals have stopped functioning. Uneasy truce Before the ceasefire deal was renewed, an Army source told Reuters the Army had demanded the RSF withdraw from civilian homes and hospitals as a condition for an extension. After the five-day extension was agreed, talks continued on the truce terms. The truce has been brokered and is being remotely monitored by Saudi Arabia and the United States. They say it has been violated by both sides, although the truce has still allowed the delivery of aid to an estimated 2 million people. The war has killed hundreds of people, displaced more than 1.2 million inside Sudan and driven 400,000 others across borders to neighbouring states, the United Nations says. Clashes have also erupted outside the capital, including Darfur, a region in the far west of Sudan where a conflict that erupted in 2003 has flared on and off for years. The United Nations, some aid agencies, embassies and parts of Sudans central government have moved operations out of the capital to Port Sudan on the Red Sea, which has stayed calm. Leaders of the army and RSF, which emerged from militias the government used to quell an earlier uprising in Darfur, held top positions on Sudans ruling council after former President Omar al-Bashir, also an army commander, was toppled in 2019. After Bashir was ousted in a popular uprising, the army with RSF leaders staged a coup in 2021 before they were due to hand leadership to civilians. Army chief Burhan and RSF leader Hemedti fell out over the chain of command and restructuring of the RSF under the planned transition to civilian rule. After conflict flared, Burhan sacked Hemedti as his deputy in the ruling council. With inputs from Reuters Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Sudanese army withdrew from ceasefire talks sponsored by the US and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, accusing its adversaries of failing to respect their agreements. The discussions mediators in the Saudi Red Sea city of Jeddah have recognised several violations of the truce by both sides, but have so far refrained from implementing punishment with the goal of keeping the warring parties at the negotiating table. The army left because the rebels have never implemented a single one of the provisions of a short-term ceasefire which required their withdrawal from hospitals and residential buildings, a Sudanese government source said on condition of anonymity. The army also claimed that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had repeatedly violated the truce. US and Saudi mediators said late Monday that the warring parties had agreed to extend by five days a humanitarian truce they had frequently violated over the previous week. The mediators admitted the truce had been imperfectly observed but said the extension will permit further humanitarian efforts. But despite the pledges of both sides, fighting flared again on Tuesday both in greater Khartoum and in the flashpoint western region of Darfur. The army is ready to fight until victory, army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan declared during a visit to troops in the capital. The RSF, led by Burhans deputy-turned-foe Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, said they will exercise their right to defend themselves and accused the army of violating the truce. Fears of breakdown Sudan specialist Aly Verjee said the mediators were eager to avoid a complete breakdown of the talks, for fear of a major escalation on the ground. The mediators know that the situation is bad but they do not want to state that a ceasefire is gone for fear that the situation would then become even worse, said Verjee, a researcher at Swedens University of Gothenburg. The hope is that by keeping the parties talking, the prospects of arrangements that are better respected will eventually improve. Since fighting erupted between the rival security forces on April 15, more than 1,800 people have been killed, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. The United Nations says more than a million people have been internally displaced and nearly 350,000 have fled abroad, including over 170,000 to Egypt. More than half the population 25 million people are now in need of aid and protection, the UN says. Entire districts of Khartoum no longer have running water, electricity is only available for a few hours a week, and three-quarters of hospitals in combat zones are out of service. Many families have continued to hide out in their homes, rationing water and electricity while trying desperately to avoid stray gunfire in the city of more than five million people nearly 700,000 of whom have fled, according to the United Nations. In Darfur, on Sudans western border with Chad, continued fighting blatantly disregards ceasefire commitments, said Toby Harward, of the UN refugee agency. The persistent fighting has impeded the delivery of the aid and protection needed by a record 25 million people, more than half the population, according to the UN. Despite the increasing needs, it says it has only received 13 per cent of the $2.6 billion it requires. The UN has warned for weeks that fighting in Darfurs major cities has also drawn in former rebel and militia fighters recruited along ethnic lines during the regions devastating conflict in the mid-2000s. Darfurs pro-army governor Mini Minawi, a former rebel leader, has urged citizens to take up arms to defend their property. Sudan could descend into total civil war, warned the Forces for Freedom and Change, the main civilian bloc ousted from power by Burhan and Daglo in a 2021 coup before the two men fell out. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Leclanche SA / Key word(s): Annual Results Leclanche Publishes its Annual Report 2022 31-May-2023 / 19:00 CET/CEST Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR Leclanche Publishes its Annual Report 2022 Audited results are in line with unaudited preliminary results published on 2 nd May 2023 2022 Revenues of CHF 18.0 million, delivering a notable increase in the second half of the year, and an EBITDA loss CHF 57.5 million compared to 44.9 million in 2021 The company has a strong business plan for the 2023 and 2024 backed with a growing pipeline driven by its three main markets: marine, railways and special road vehicles Current over indebtedness situation has been cured with the support of the Companys largest shareholders. YVERDON-LES-BAINS, Switzerland, May 31, 2023 Leclanche SA (SIX: LECN), one of the worlds leading manufacturer of industrial heavy-duty batteries, today announces its results for the full year ending 31st December 2022 and informs that further financial strengthening measures were undertaken. Business Update: The Company's commitment to growth and innovation has continued to drive success in the market and build the foundations for many future opportunities. The Board is confident on the Company's potential to create value for its shareholders and drive future growth. In recent years, the Company has made significant up-front investments in manufacturing capacity and incurred research and development expenses while developing its order book. Recurring opeRating losses reflect upon this continuing effort. Summary of 2022 Financials: Consolidated revenues for the fiscal year 2022 were CHF 18.0 million, down from CHF 18.9 million in 2021. EBITDA loss for 2022 amounts to CHF (57.5) million compared to a loss of CHF (44.9) million the previous year. Net loss for the year was CHF (85.6) million compared to CHF (80.0) million in 2021. The slight decrease in revenues in 2022 is mainly due to: Investments in production facilities in Yverdon-les-Bains (assembly line) and Willstatt, Germany (production line) to increase the planned cell production capacity. Worldwide supply chain issues are still causing delays in sourcing electronic and specialized plastic components, also affecting customer delivery deadlines. Despite a net loss for the year 2022 of CHF (85.6) million, the Company has been able to maintain a stable balance sheet of CHF 90.8 million as of December 31, 2022, compared to CHF 89.7 million the previous year. Leclanche SA, the Swiss legal entity, was in a negative equity situation as of 31st December 2022, in the amount of CHF 51.3 million. Leclanche addressed this over-indebtedness situation by obtaining a subordination of CHF 88 million of the debt and interests provided by Leclanches majority shareholders. Pierre Blanc, Group CEO of Leclanche said: The year 2022 has seen revenues in line with those achieved in 2021, and at the same time, we have seen a strong growth in our pipeline of firm orders. This is contributing to the establishment of a strong foundation for future growth in our key E-Mobility market segments. The increase in firm orders has mainly been driven by our three key markets which are railway, marine and specialised road vehicles. To better address this new phase in the companys development, a number of changes have been made to the organisation. In September 2022, a change of the board of directors was determined and implemented, followed by a change of executive management in November 2022. Our priorities focused on the improvement of customer payment terms to better address our working capital needs, the discontinuation of the SPAC discussions in favour of more traditional funding through a capital increase and a reinforcement of our ESG team and foundation. This was followed by the signing of an MOU with Cummins in early 2023. We have been working to refocus the company on its core activities, and several ongoing reorganisation projects which will be completed in 2023. We expect to continue building our strong pipeline and improve our sales and financials as we further expand our customer and partnership base. For more information, write to info@leclanche.com or visit www.leclanche.com. Full financials can be accessed on https://www.leclanche.com/financial-reports/. About Leclanche Leclanche is a world leading provider of low-carbon footprint energy storage solutions based on lithium-ion cell technology. Established in 1909 in Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland, Leclanches history and heritage is rooted in battery and energy storage innovation. The companys Swiss culture for precision and quality, together with its production facilities in Germany, make Leclanche the partner of choice for companies seeking the very best in battery performance and who are pioneering positive changes in how energy is produced, distributed and consumed around the world. Leclanche is organised into three business units: energy storage solutions, e-Mobility solutions and specialty battery systems. The company currently employs over 350 people with representative offices in eight countries around the world. Leclanche is listed on the Swiss Stock Exchange (SIX: LECN). Disclaimer This press release contains certain forward-looking statements relating to Leclanche's business, which can be identified by terminology such as "strategic", "proposes", "to introduce", "will", "planned", "expected", "commitment", "expects", "set", "preparing", "plans", "estimates", "aims", "would", "potential", "awaiting", "estimated", "proposal", or similar expressions, or by expressed or implied discussions regarding the ramp up of Leclanche's production capacity, potential applications for existing products, or regarding potential future revenues from any such products, or potential future sales or earnings of Leclanche or any of its business units. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Such forward-looking statements reflect the current views of Leclanche regarding future events, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. There can be no guarantee that Leclanche's products will achieve any particular revenue levels. Nor can there be any guarantee that Leclanche, or any of the business units, will achieve any particular financial results Contacts Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis planned state visit to the US from June 21 to 24, United Statess ambassador to India Eric Garcetti said that the ties between the two countries are historic and generational. In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18 on Tuesday, the US ambassador said that the friendship between the two countries has never been stronger. You can feel that warmth between our leaders, you see that reflected at state dinnerBut it isnt just dependent on two peopleIts about 1.7 billion people who know, respect, and like each other And see the future of both sides tied together, he said. Garcetti also talked about the current state of the India-US bilateral relationship. He told CNN-News18 I think its historic right now and its generational in both senses of the wordsomething thats going to last more than this moment. Its an investment in the generation together but its also generating good things for our countries and for the worldWhether its technologymaking sure technology can be a force for good and not of oppressionWhether a strategic partnership that says this is about maintaining and respecting borders and sovereignty, open seaways, or whether its people-to-people ties, which of course we have been building for a long time. Every Indian knows somebody who has studied in the US, travelled to the USI think that this is a historic moment in our relationshipIts natural, but this is also generationalThis is something that is not just about short-term transactions, but its about the long-term relationship, he said. Talking about the PMs state dinner in June, he said that the visit is about the idea of the Indo-Pacific now being real. Not just to guide our relationship with India but to guide our own future to make sure we are not dependent on one place for supply chains and to make sure that our values of two democracies stand in contrast to other countries who arent democratic, he said. This is also about the region put together, not just bilateral ties but our quadrilateral ties with Japan and Australia in the QuadThe I2U2 with Israel and UAEWe really have the ability to be a force together for doing good things not just for our people but recognition in Washington that our future is tied to Indias success and its success is tied to ours, he told CNN-News18. Garcetti also talked about Indias stand on the Russia-Ukraine war where it is not on the same page as the US and Europe. We know that we can continue doing things together even where, as all good friends do, we dont agree one hundred per cent all the time but I think the street here in India recognises how important that sovereignty issue is How important borders and respecting them are and well continue to say you dont have to be involved in this war to feel its impact. This is affecting the global economy and India has suffered too because of whats going on, he said. Regarding the concern about the amount of oil India is importing from Russia, he told CNN-News18 Our position is that India has helped us actually keep that price cap that was essential tenetIt wasnt a ban on this oil but a price cap and so Indias participation is actually fulfilling that goal for usWere we to see that it goes higher or something else we would have to revisit that but right now its in line with how the alliance has come togetherWe understand oil is an international good that prices affect all of us, but at the same time whether it is diamonds or technology, other places where we want to be sure that there is a price for aggression, we are going continue very aggressively after that and hopefully bring like-minded people with us. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. In a policy shift, the United Arab Emirates withdrew from a U.S.-led Middle East maritime security coalition two months ago. The Combined Maritime Forces is a 34-nation task force, headquartered at the U.S. naval base in Bahrain, working on security, counter-terrorism and counter-piracy in the Red Sea and Gulf areas. The coalition is tasked with securing tense Gulf waterways that are vital to the global oil trade. The UAE took the decision after evaluating its security relationships, the Gulf state said early on Wednesday. The UAE withdrew its participation in the 38-nation Combined Maritime Forces two months ago, a foreign ministry statement said, without giving reasons for the move. As a result of our ongoing evaluation of effective security cooperation with all partners, two months ago, the UAE withdrew its participation in the Combined Maritime Forces, said the statement carried by the official WAM news agency. The Bahrain-headquartered CMF was established in 2001, initially as a partnership between 12 nations. It is active in crucial but troubled Gulf waters where tankers have been seized and attacked in recent months. A spokesperson for the Combined Maritime Forces said the UAE remains a partner nation, despite putting its participation on hold. The CMF still includes 38 partner nations, of which the UAE is one, Commander Timothy Hawkins told AFP. Five weeks ago, Iran seized two tankers within a week in Gulf waters near the Strait of Hormuz. The second tanker, the Niovi, had been travelling from Dubai toward the UAEs Fujairah port. Iran was also accused of launching a drone attack against an Israeli-owned tanker in November 2022, stoking tensions with the United States. Earlier this month, the US said it was sending reinforcements to the Gulf, which carries at least a third of the worlds sea-borne oil, after what it called increasing harassment by Iran. The commander of the US Navys Fifth Fleet, Vice-Admiral Brad Cooper, later transited through the Strait of Hormuz in a guided-missile destroyer along with British and French naval commanders. Iran responded by saying it is capable of ensuring the safety of Gulf waters in cooperation with neighbouring countries. The UAE remains committed to responsibly ensuring the safety of navigation in its seas, the UAE statement said, adding that the major oil exporter is committed to peaceful dialogue and diplomatic engagement. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. According to Russian officials, a Ukrainian drone set fire to an oil refinery in southern Russia, and shelling targeted a Russian village near the border for the third time in a week, destroying houses and cars and wounding four people. A day after Russia accused Ukraine of deploying drones to target buildings in Moscow, Ukrainian artillery hit the Russian town of Shebekino, some 7 kilometres (4.5 miles) north of the border with Ukraines Kharkiv area, regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov stated on Telegram. According to him, two individuals were wounded, and the shelling shattered windows and damaged roofs of an eight-story apartment complex, four dwellings, a school, and other locations. A drone, according to the governor of Russias southern Krasnodar region, was the likely cause of a fire at the Afipsky oil refinery. The fire was quickly extinguished, and no one was injured, according to Governor Veniamin Kondratyev on Telegram. The Afipsky refinery is not far from the Black Sea port of Novorossiisk, and it is close to another refinery that has been targeted many times this month. There was no immediate word on who fired the drone, but Moscow has accused Kyiv of stepping up assaults within Russia in recent weeks, while Russia has frequently bombarded Ukrainian towns with drones and missiles. The reports could not be independently verified by Reuters. On Tuesday night, the skies over Ukraine were largely peaceful, with no big air raids recorded. According to Ukrainian officials, Russian drone assaults in Kyiv on Tuesday killed one person and injured four others. The strikes within Russia occur as Ukraine prepares to launch a counter-offensive to push Russian soldiers out of land they have held since their full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Ukraine nearly never officially claims credit for assaults in Russia or on Ukrainian territory controlled by Russia. Drone war Ukrainian drones struck wealthy districts of Moscow on Tuesday, Russia said, in what one politician called the most dangerous attack on the capital since World War Two. Kyiv was also hit from the air for the third time in 24 hours. Air attacks by both sides have intensified as a stalemate endures on the ground with Russian forces entrenched along an extended line in Ukraines east and south. The Russian defence ministry said eight drones sent to Moscow by Ukraine and targeting civilians were shot down or diverted with electronic jammers, though Baza, a Telegram channel with links to the security services, said there were more than 25. Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian presidential aide, denied Kyiv was directly involved but said we are pleased to watch events and forecast more such strikes. Two people were injured while some apartment blocks were briefly evacuated, according to Moscows mayor. Residents said they heard loud bangs followed by the smell of petrol. Some filmed a drone being shot down and a plume of smoke. The drones targeted some of Moscows most prestigious districts including where Russian President Vladimir Putin and other members of the elite have homes. Putin said Ukraines biggest drone strike on Moscow was an attempt to frighten and provoke Russia, and that air defences around the capital would be strengthened. Civilian targets in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities have since the earliest days of the war been struck repeatedly by Russian drones and missiles. But Tuesday marked only the second time Moscow had come under direct fire. In Washington, the White House said it was gathering information on the reports of drone strikes in Moscow. We do not support attacks inside of Russia. Thats it. Period, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at a briefing. Washington is a major supplier of weaponry to Ukraine on the condition it uses it to defend itself and to retake Ukrainian territory occupied by Russian forces. Russias ambassador to the United States accused Washington of encouraging terrorists in Kyiv by publicly ignoring the drone attack. Nuclear plant risk One of the southern places Russian forces have controlled since just after the beginning of the invasion is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and on Tuesday the chief of the UN nuclear watchdog asked Ukraine and Russia to respect five principles to safeguard it. Neither Ukraine nor Russia has committed to respect the principles. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi has been trying for months to secure an agreement to reduce the risk of a nuclear accident from military activity like shelling at Zaporizhzhia, Europes biggest nuclear power plant. In a briefing to the UN Security Council, Grossi said the principles included that there should be no attack on or from the plant and that it not be used as a base for heavy weapons and other military equipment. He called for off-site power to the plant to remain available and secure. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The United States (US) has unveiled a new weapon that may prove lethal for the PLA Navy (PLAN) of China during a future conflict. This new weapon comprises loitering munitions which can be swarm-launched against enemy naval targets from autonomous Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV). Kamikaze drones have emerged as formidable weapons during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. They are also expected to have a decisive impact on a possible future conflict between the United States (US) and China in the western Pacific Ocean. The Long-Range Unmanned Surface Vessel (LRUSV) of the US Marine Corps, which can fire the Hero-120 loitering munitions, was just made public. These tactical assets would function in a discrete home vs away situation, along with the bigger supporting strategic platforms like aircraft carriers, destroyers, fighter bombers, and anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD). Here China is fighting from the comforts of its home front while the US is confronted with several disadvantages in terms of logistics, technology and doctrinal as it reorients itself to fight a formidable enemy. The US Marine Corps said in a statement that it plans to use the LRUSV primarily as an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platform. (It can also be) capable of extended travel and transporting loitering munitions that accurately track and destroy targets on sea or land, the statement added. The platforms launch coincides with the USMCs refinement of the Expeditionary Advanced Base of Operations (EABO) concept and the management of its Marine Littoral Regiments (MLR). In accordance with the strategy, Chinese warships and aircraft will be targeted by small, concealable, island-hopping Marines stationed on friendly islands controlled by the Philippines or Japan. The intention is to disperse, coordinate, and target China inside the A2/AD bubble as a modest component of the US Navys Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO) plan. The Drive reported that the USMC is purchasing the service-specific Hero-120 OPF model of the Hero-120. The Israeli business UVision is the one who creates the Hero drones. The Hero-120, according to UVisions website, has an airborne endurance of roughly 60 minutes and a maximum range of at least 37 miles (60 kilometres), albeit it is still unknown how it may differ from the normal model. Additionally, the standard Hero-120 includes a high-explosive warhead that weighs roughly 4.5 kilogrammes. The Hero-120s sensor package also suggests that it has secondary surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, like the majority of modern kamikaze drone systems. If the operator decides to stop the attack on a target, they can be flown back and collected. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The US military said on Tuesday that a Chinese fighter jet carried out an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver close to a US reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea, forcing the American pilot to fly through the turbulent wake. The Chinese J-16 fighter pilot flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135, which was conducting routine operations in international airspace last Friday, US Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement, adding that the move was an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver. The United States will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, the statement added. A video showed a fighter jet passing in front of the US planes nose and the cockpit of the RC-135 shaking in the turbulence. In the past, China has said that the United States sending ships and aircraft into the South China Sea is not good for peace. Such intercepts happen occasionally. In December, a Chinese military plane came within 10 feet (3 meters) of a US Air Force aircraft and forced it to take evasive maneuvers to avoid a collision in international airspace. The encounter followed what the United States has called a recent trend of increasingly dangerous behavior by Chinese military aircraft. The incident took place before China snubbed a request by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to meet on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue Asian security summit in Singapore this week. A senior US defense official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that since 2021 China had declined or not responded to over a dozen requests to talk with the Pentagon. Relations between China and the United States have been tense, with friction between the worlds two largest economies over everything from Taiwan and Chinas human rights record to its military activity in the South China Sea. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is on a 10-day visit to the US, was heckled by Khalistanis during his muhabbat ki dukaan event in California. At an event where Rahul said Indian Muslims are in same situation as Dalits in 1980s when Congress was in power, his speech was interrupted by extremists group who raised Khalistan flag and Khalistan Zindabad slogans. The act of disruption was claimed by US-based Khalistani outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). A video of the incident that has now gone viral, shows, a group of Khalistani supporters suddenly getting up from the audience and starting to wave the Khalistani flag, interrupting the Congress leaders speech. Slogans against former Prime Minister and grandmother of Rahul, Indira Gandhi and the Gandhi family were also raised in connection with the 1984 Sikh massacre that took place in India. Also Read: Rahul Gandhi shoots himself in foot again, says Indian Muslims in same situation as Dalits in 1980s when Congress was in power Moments after the incident, SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun shared a video on social media that had visuals from the event when the Khalistani supporters protested against Rahul Gandhi. Rahul Gandhi heckled by Khalistanis in California They raised Khalistan flag & Khalistan Zindabad slogans Its done by US-based Khalistani outfit SFJ & its chief Pannu released video of heckling Rahul Gandhi & threatening PM Modis US visit in June CC: @USAndIndia, @USAmbIndia pic.twitter.com/W2MCIjkOR3 Anshul Saxena (@AskAnshul) May 31, 2023 The video accompanied an audio clip in which Pannun referred to Rahul as trader of 'Sikh genocide.' He also threatened the Congress leader of similar resistance from the Khalistanis wherever he would travel and address the masses across the US. Pannun also threatened that Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, would face similar treatment during his state visit. "Next will be Modi on June 22," he said. PM Modi will be on an official state visit to the US on June 22 where he will be hosted by US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden at a state dinner at the White House. With inputs from agencies Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. A woman who accused Joe Biden of sexual assault during the 2020 presidential campaign arrived in Moscow on Tuesday, when she claimed she was requesting President Vladimir Putin for Russian citizenship. Tara Reade, who briefly worked in Bidens congressional office in 1993, claimed she wanted to stay in Russia after a Republican senator warned her she was in danger. Reade, 59, stated in a live broadcast interview with the Sputnik media organisation that she came to Russia on vacation. However, she said, When I got off the plane in Moscow, for the first time in a very long time I felt safe, and I felt heard and felt respected. In early 2020, Reade made news when she claimed that then-Senator Biden sexually attacked her in a Capitol Hill hallway in August 1993, when she was 29. Her claim came while Biden was building up his campaign against current President Donald Trump, who has faced sexual abuse and rape allegations himself. Biden flatly refuted her claim. It is not true. Im saying unequivocally it never, never happened, he said. Reade said she filed a complaint after the alleged incident, but no record of it has been found. But a 1996 court document records her ex-husband mentioning that she had complained of sexual harassment while working in Bidens office. It is not clear if her allegations have ever been formally investigated. Reade, who called herself a geopolitical analyst, said in the Sputnik interview that after making her allegations public in 2020, she was threatened with prison, her life was threatened, and she was called a Russian agent. Sitting alongside Maria Butina, a Russian lawmaker who was arrested and imprisoned in Washington in 2018 as an alleged spy, Reade told the interviewer she has always loved Russia. I do not see Russia as an enemy nor do many of my fellow American citizens, she said. She had one large request. Id like to apply for citizenship in Russia, from the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, she said. I do promise to be a good citizen, she said, adding that she also wants to hold onto her US citizenship. Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News, India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The Chinese military has been undergoing continuous reforms and modernization since the 1980a, when the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) adopted a market economy that led to decades of sustained economic growth that made the Chinese economy the second largest, after the United States, in the world. During those years of economic reforms and growth the Chinese military underwent similar reforms and modernization. The CCP has paid attention ensuring that the military modernizations and reforms do not overlook or weaken the core purpose of the military; to keep the CCP in power. Carrying out this program was made easier because modernization meant a smaller military. Higher standards for carefully selected and better trained troops was a lesson learned from Western nations, who had been using this approach since the late 20th century. This meant fewer, or no conscripts and encouraged more troops to make a career of the military. By the late 1990s China was openly, deliberately and rapidly modernizing armed forces on the Western model. The latest innovation is to deal with the shortage of well trained supervisory personnel for combat support. The Chinese solution was to offer qualified high school and college students the opportunity to enter the military as a junior NCO after several years of technical training in civilian schools. There are also shorter courses for basic military training and advanced training on supervising support troops. Successful completion of this training enables the students to enter military service as an NCO. For university graduates the NCO job can eventually lead to officer rank. This deals with the shortage of effective officers in combat support services. The first batch of these technical NCOs contains about 20,000 individuals. Most of these are trained for jobs in the navy, air force and missile forces. The technical skills produced by the program are mainly about operating and maintaining modern warships, aircraft and strategic missile systems. Communications and computer systems are another often part of this. In the past the military often had to put NCOs and officers with no technical training in charge of new troops that had just received basic technical skills training. Most of the troops with tech training did not make a career in the military. Instead, they left the military and got better paying tech jobs in civilian organizations. At the very least, the new Chinese technical NCO program provides an incentive to stay in the military and obtain more training and higher rank (and pay). To Chinese military leaders, technical proficiency was one of the less obvious reasons for the success of American troops since the 1980s. The Chinese were impressed with how the American led force demolished the Iraqi army in 1991. This Hundred Hour War was an impressive demonstration of how a well-equipped and well-trained all-volunteer force could roll over a Soviet-style, largely conscript opponent, even when outnumbered. There were several instances during that short war when outnumbered American units defeated larger Iraqi forces. Chinese officers looked at that and decided that this was the kind of military China needed. This attitude was reinforced in 2003 when two American and one British divisions invaded and defeated Iraq in a few weeks. In both those wars the Americans allowed TV journalists to accompany the combat units, so there was lots of videos for Chinese troops and officers to study. By 2003 China was still hampered by a force modeled on the Russian (Soviet Union) model, an organizational style that had largely been discredited. China still depended on conscription for a lot of its troops and were only beginning to build an effective NCO (sergeants and petty officers) corps along with better trained and selected officers. China found that it was a lot easier to obtain modern weapons and combat uniforms than it was to train the troops to fight like the Westerners. Changing recruiting, training and leadership methods is still a work in process, even after about 25 years of effort. For example, one crucial factor in achieving combat effectiveness similar to the Americans was unit cohesion. U.S. combat units trained for over a year to create a brigade that was ready to deploy overseas for combat. That preparation period could be compressed, but only if most of the same troops remained with the unit. This was, and still is, impossible for Chinese army units. The problem is that a third of the two million strong Chinese military are still conscripts, most of whom are gone in two years. Most of those conscripts are in the army, which accounts for about half the military personnel. It gets worse. Until recently, every year all the new conscripts came in at once. The traditional induction date for new recruits was November first. Like their Russian mentors, China inducted most of its new troops at one time. Russia does it twice a year, but China only recently adopted that approach. November was at the end of the main harvest season and most young men had little to do over the winter months so Russia, and China, favored this time of the year to induct new and train recruits. In China this was made worse because these new recruits were trained by local (to where they lived) military units. This meant these units, especially the army ones, lost about a third of their troops and had to assign another five or ten percent of the unit to training the new conscripts. In effect most army units were much less effective for half the year. The navy, air force and rocket forces had far fewer conscripts and were not much disrupted by the annual induction and discharge of conscripts. In fact, most ship crews have no conscripts at all. This was much the same in front-line air force and rocket (ballistic missile) units. Some elite army units, like special operations and airborne, had far fewer conscripts and were not disrupted. Since 2015 China has been addressing this problem by moving the induction date back to a month or so, so induction takes place a month or so after high school and college students graduate. Induction was then conducted twice a year and in 2020 a new schedule of even more frequent inductions was to begin in January 2020. The coronavirus disrupted that and that new program will instead begin in 2023. The plan is to eventually induct new troops year-round, as in the West. To make that work the Chinese also shifted to separate basic training centers. Again, this was based on the Western model. By 2020 Chinese combat units were able to train and be combat ready as their American counterparts were. However, this requires that the Chinese program to build a Western style NCO force succeeds. So far the NCO program seems to be working but this sort of thing takes time, and another decade or two will be needed to complete. The new technical NCO program addressed a segment of that problem that had long defied solution. Another major change in the Chinese military is persuading more high school and college graduates to volunteer for service and stay in for up to ten years. Until the last few decades there were not a lot of Chinese high school and college graduates in general and the military ran its own schools and did not depend on civilian universities for new personnel. Times have changed and that was one reason for changing the induction date to August 1st, to make it easier to attract new graduates before they found good jobs in the civilian economy. Its a simple idea that makes a big difference. Changing over to a Western style year-round induction system requires many more internal changes and more expense. Changing the annual induction date, on the other hand, was a lot cheaper. Since 2008 the Chinese military has made themselves more attractive to college grads and has been able to attract more of them. While about 150,000 college grads join each year, the military has not been able to attract many from the top universities. These are the men needed by the senior military leadership in 20-30 years, when Chinese forces will be much more powerful and complex. That's because the Chinese military is getting a lot more high-tech gear, a process that will continue in the future. It is obvious that it will require high quality leaders to get the most out of it. At the moment it looks like the high-end gear will arrive on schedule but not the high-end leadership. There are too many more attractive opportunities in the civilian economy and the conscription process is corrupt enough that anyone who doesn't want to be in the military can avoid it, while many who need a job but are not qualified can bribe their way in. This is troubling because the government, and to a lesser extent the military leadership, want to do something about corruption in the military. This problem can best be addressed with better quality leadership at the top. The current leadership knows that many of its senior officers are dirty. All these guys came up in the wake of the calamitous 1960s "Cultural Revolution." This disaster discredited the communists and led to the economic reforms (a market economy) of the 1980s. The Communist Party is still in charge but wants to deal with corruption (which is fomenting rebellious attitudes among the people) and increase the quality of leadership in the military. This is proving to be difficult. The corruption problem is made worse by the fact that conscription is handled by local entities, which are run by local politicians who are often corrupt, or willing to tolerate a lot of corruption. The military has tried to address this by sending more army personnel to increase the number of them assisting the local officials while also trying to spot who is corrupt and report those officials for prosecution. The Chinese armed forces have changed a lot since 2000. Uneducated country boys are no longer welcome. Then again, neither are tattooed and pierced urban hipsters or anyone who snores. In the 1990s, the military was, as the Chinese like to say, a "peasant's army." Worse, none of the officers or NCOs had any combat experience. The last of the Korean War vets were gone and the few veterans of the 1979 war with Vietnam were still trying to forget that disaster. The army was largely non-mechanized, with many primitive weapons and aging equipment. That has all changed in the last decade. Now most of the troops are better educated, more experienced, and largely from urban areas. Most of these troops are single children, the result of the "one child" policy. Officially introduced in 1978, this draconian solution to population growth did not really get going until the 1980s. In the last decade nearly all the new recruits came from single child families. Often called "little princes," their parents (and grandparents) lavished them with all the attention usually spread among many more kids. Often described as spoiled, these kids did get more adult attention, better education, and more of everything. They enter the military with lots of skills like computers, driving, and the ability to learn new stuff in a hurry. The best of these kids went to the top universities and few choose the military as a career. The army has found that this new generation is much more capable and quicker to learn. Senior commanders welcome this because it's the kind of manpower Western forces use to achieve very impressive results on the battlefield. Chinese NCOs and officers have learned how to work around the bad habits (selfishness, insubordination, stubbornness) of some little princes and make the most of the talents these troops bring with them. The most incorrigible little princes are just tossed out. The Chinese military is smaller now than in 2000. Back then there were 2.4 million, 40 percent of them conscripts. That eventually became two million, with a third of them conscripts. Most Chinese troops are volunteers. Technically, about 700,000 men are conscripts that serve for two years, with each year's class of conscripts inducted in the autumn. Only about 350,000 conscripts are inducted each year, and nearly all of these tend to be volunteers. That's because only about four percent of each year's crop of 18-year-old males is needed. How do they decide who to take? Naturally, the army tries to get the most physically, psychologically, and educationally fit for the armed forces. To that end the military has been administering tests to draftees for nearly two decades now. If you're not literate (over 90 percent of Chinese are), they don't want you. But the better educated 18-year olds don't want to go into the military, not with that booming economy out there. If selected, most of these lads bribe their way out or simply rely on there being enough qualified volunteers to satisfy the recruiting officials. A lot of young men who don't have much education very much want to get into the military. For one thing, it's a job, and there are opportunities for education and advancement. The military tries to identify the more capable among these poor, uneducated young men, so they can be taken into service. Men who have been accepted by a university are automatically exempt, as are those with a criminal record. Drug addicts, the physically or mentally infirm, and anyone who just doesn't seem right to the examiners, are exempt from conscription. And for many of those who are perfect, there are numerous officials willing to take a bribe and get you off the list. The work of deciding who actually gets drafted is done by thousands of draft boards or, as the Chinese call them, People's Armed Forces Departments (PAFD). Each is assigned a quota, based on how many 18-year olds are coming of age in a town or city neighborhood. Since these locations vary greatly in the wealth and educational levels of the inhabitants some PAFDs have an easy time of it, while others have to struggle to meet their quota. In some wealthy PAFDs hardly anyone wants to go and some interesting soap operas ensue. In less wealthy PAFDs bribes will be paid to get some kids in. Not large bribes but you get the picture. In the late 1990s, the operation of the PAFDs was turned over to the military, in an attempt to reduce corruption and ensure that the best quality recruits were obtained. This was only partially successful because most of the people running each PAFD were still locals and often reported to corrupt local officials. Partly in response to this dramatic change, China recently revised its Military Service Law (which stipulates how troops are recruited, their living conditions, and benefits in general) for the first time since the 1990s. In an attempt to get more highly educated young Chinese to join, living conditions are being improved and pay has been increased. Moreover, in recognition of the fact that many of the brightest troops will not make a career out of the military, the new law gives departing troops help in getting a good civilian job. One of the more attractive benefits is help with college tuition for soldiers who successfully complete their service. The Chinese probably noted how successful the U.S. G.I. Bill educational benefits were in attracting prime recruits. China will eventually have a Western quality military, or something very close to it. The Chinese realize this takes time, as in several decades. The Chinese are willing to take the time, make the effort and do it right. At the invitation of the Chinese government, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of the Kingdom of Thailand will visit China from June 1 to 6. This will be Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorns 50th visit to China. CCTV: You just announced that Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn of Thailand will visit China. Can you share more about this visit? What does China expect to achieve through this visit? Mao Ning: The Chinese and Thai people are brothers and our fraternity lasts forever. China warmly welcomes Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn, a good and old friend of the Chinese people and recipient of the Friendship Medal, to pay the 50th visit to China. I believe that this visit will be another good story in the history of China-Thailand friendly exchanges, further enrich the profound culture of China-Thailand community with a shared future and create a new chapter of the special friendship between the two countries as close as one family. During the visit, the Chinese leader will meet with Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn and jointly attend the event held by the Chinese Peoples Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries to celebrate Her Royal Highnesss 50th visit to China. Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn will also travel to Guangdong besides Beijing. TASS: During his meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Belgrade Chen Bo yesterday, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic asked the Chinese Ambassador to convey to the Chinese leadership the request to exert influence on the international community regarding Kosovo and Metohija. Do you have any comment? Could you share more information? Mao Ning: Yesterday, the Chinese Ambassador to Serbia met with President Aleksandar Vucic upon invitation. The two sides exchanged views on issues of mutual interest. China and Serbia are comprehensive strategic partners and iron-clad friends. China always supports Serbias effort to uphold its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Under the current circumstances, escalation of tensions needs to be avoided and the peace and tranquility of the Western Balkan region upheld. The Paper: According to reports, relevant institution recently released a report on incidents in the village of Moura pointing out that Malian forces and foreign mercenaries violated human rights in anti-terrorist operations. Whats Chinas comment? Mao Ning: China supports the Malian governments effort of fighting terrorism and safeguarding national security and stability. China always advocates that all sides should have constructive dialogue and cooperation on human rights issues and opposes meddling in other countries internal affairs under the excuse of human rights. Yonhap News Agency: According to reports, the DPRK fired a space projectile on May 31 and it fell into the Yellow Sea due to its engine failure. The ROK, the US and other countries accused the DPRK of violating the UN Security Council resolutions. Whats Chinas position? Mao Ning: How the Korean Peninsula issues developed into the current situation is clear and the situation today is not what China wants to see. The only way to prevent the situation from worsening is that all sides should face up to the crux of the absence of a peace mechanism on the Korean Peninsula, resume meaningful dialogue under the dual track approach and address each others reasonable concerns in a balanced way. Reuters: Our first question is that the US said a Chinese fighter jet carried out an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver near a US military plane last week over the South China Sea in international airspace. Will the ministry comment on this? The second question is that Tesla CEO Elon Musk has met with the Foreign, Commerce, and Industry ministers last evening and earlier today. Which other ministries or senior officials will Elon Musk meet, and what has Elon Musk expressed to officials so far about what he hopes to achieve from his meetings in China? Mao Ning: On your first question, I would like to point out that for quite some time, the US side has frequently sent aircraft and vessels to conduct close-in reconnaissance on China, seriously threatening Chinas sovereignty and security. Such provocative and dangerous moves are the root cause for maritime security issues. The US needs to immediately stop such dangerous acts of provocation. We will continue to take necessary measures to firmly safeguard our sovereignty and security. On your second question, China has released information on the relevant meetings, which you may refer to. I have nothing more to share at the moment. Bloomberg: Does China support NATOs efforts to send more troops to Kosovo and does China think that sending more troops is truly contributing to peace? Mao Ning: China pays high attention to relevant developments. We support Serbias effort to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity, oppose unilateral actions by the temporary institutions in Pristina, and hope that the duty of establishing an association/community of Serb majority municipalities will be fulfilled. NATO needs to respect relevant countrys sovereignty and territorial integrity and truly make contribution to peace in the region. RIA Novosti: Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said Venezuela would like to become part of the BRICS as this association forms a new world order. Do you have any comment on this? Mao Ning: As an important platform for cooperation among emerging markets and developing countries, BRICS is committed to upholding multilateralism, vigorously advancing the reform of the global governance system and increasing the representation and say of emerging markets and developing countries. It has become a positive, stable and constructive force in international affairs. China always believes that BRICS is an open and inclusive mechanism and supports the BRICS expansion process. We stand ready to bring more like-minded partners into the big family of BRICS. Joong-Ang Ilbo: My first question is, today The Hankyoreh reported that Director-General of the Department of Asian Affairs of the Foreign Ministry Liu Jinsong visited Seoul last week, conveying the four noes position of the Chinese government. Chinas Foreign Ministry said that he made clear Chinas serious position on its core concerns. Is this the four noes position? Do you have any comment on The Hankyoreh report? My second question is, Minister of the Chinese Embassy in the ROK Fang Kun said at an ROK-China-Japan cooperation day event yesterday that China always supports ROK-China-Japan cooperation. Do you have any comment? Mao Ning: On your first question, we shared information on the consultations Director-General of the Department of Asian Affairs of the Foreign Ministry Liu Jinsong had in the ROK last week and you may refer to that. I want to stress that the current difficulties and challenges in the China-ROK relations are not caused by China. In recent consultations, China has seriously and comprehensively made clear its solemn position on its core interest to the ROK side. The ROK side should have an in-depth understanding of the crux of the problem, take it seriously and work with China to make positive effort for the sound and steady growth of China-ROK relations. On your second question, China, Japan and the ROK are close neighbors. Cooperation among the three countries serve the common interests of all. China attaches importance to China-Japan-ROK cooperation. The three sides need to work together to safeguard the political foundation of bilateral relations and promote the steady, healthy and sustained growth of the trilateral cooperation. AFP: The Wall Street Journal reports that China and India have effectively kicked out a large number of each others journalists recently by denying visa renewals. Can you confirm that this is happening and tell us why? Mao Ning: Chinese journalists have suffered unfair and discriminatory treatment in India for a long time. In 2017, the Indian side shortened the period of validity of visas held by Chinese journalists in India to three months or even one month without any valid reason. Since 2020, the Indian side has refused to review and approve Chinese journalists applications for stationing in India. As a result, the number of Chinese journalists stationed in India has plummeted from 14 at the normal time to just one. As we speak, the Indian side still has not renewed the visa of the last Chinese journalist in the country. The number of Chinese journalists stationed in India is about to drop to zero. Considering this, the Chinese side has no choice but to take appropriate counter-measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese media organizations. I would like to stress that China is still willing to maintain communication with India under the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit. We hope that India will work in the same direction with China, seriously respond to Chinas legitimate concerns, and take concrete steps as soon as possible to create favorable conditions for restoring normal exchange between the media organizations of the two countries. AFP: Myanmar media reports that Chinas military official met with Myanmar vice-senior general Soe Win yesterday and the two of them discussed cooperation between the two countries armies. Can you confirm that this meeting took place and do you have any details of what was discussed? Mao Ning: Im not aware of what you mentioned. Please refer to the competent authorities. Bloomberg: The US has accused several Chinese companies of shipping machines that make counterfeit pills to the US and Mexico and has hit more than a dozen entities with sanctions. Does the foreign ministry have any comment? Mao Ning: The US has taken the so-called illicit drug-related crimes as an excuse to impose unreasonable sanctions on Chinese entities and individuals, which severely harms the lawful rights and interests of these companies and individuals. China strongly deplores and firmly opposes this. The excuse for the US sanctions is that relevant Chinese companies and individuals exported pill press machines and die molds to the US and Mexico. It is well known that these are common goods that are not under control both in China and the wider world. In international trade, the responsibility for preventing relevant equipment from being used for making illicit drug lies with the importer. Ill make an analogy to explain the situation: A knife can be used for cutting up vegetable or for killing. If someone attacked others with a knife, who should be brought to account? The one who used the knife to attack others or the producer of the knife? I think the answer is quite clear. The US has itself to blame for its domestic drug abuse. Unilateral sanctions will not solve the USs own problems but will only create further obstacles for China-US cooperation. China will continue to take necessary measures to safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies and individuals. AFP: Just to clarify the previous question on Indian journalists, you mentioned that China has to take appropriate countermeasures against Indias actions. Does it mean that China has indeed refused to renew visas for Indian journalists? Mao Ning: We have been actively providing assistance and convenience to Indian journalists working and living in China. We treat them like friends and family. I believe many of you here know that some Indian journalists have been working and living in China for more than 10 years. The current situation is not what we want to see. We hope that the Indian side will immediately correct its wrongdoing and provide facilitation to the normal work and life of journalists from both countries. Colorful has introduced the EVOL X15 AT gaming laptop, featuring the latest 13th generation Intel Core processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050/RTX 4060 graphics. This release follows the earlier launch of the COLORFUL EVOL X16 Pro. The COLORFUL EVOL X15 AT gaming laptop offers a 15.6 QHD (25601440) 165Hz display with NVIDIA G-SYNC support, ensuring a smooth gaming experience without stutters or tearing. In addition to Pine Blue and Mist Grey, the new EVOL X15 AT now comes in Purple Grape as well. The Chinese version of the laptop features a tasteful debossed Chinese text on the cover, symbolizing strength and power. Equipped with the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series laptop GPU, the COLORFUL EVOL X15 AT takes advantage of NVIDIA DLSS 3 and NVIDIA Reflex technologies, enhancing graphics performance. The EVOL X15 AT with the GeForce RTX 4060 8GB laptop GPU delivers improved graphics performance with a maximum TPD of up to 140W. The laptop features Storm Blade 4.0 Cooling Technology, which includes dual cooling fans and a redesigned 79-fin fan blade for better cooling performance compared to the previous design. The thermal solution now includes 6 high-performance heat pipes with direct contact to the CPU and GPU. With Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) connectivity, the COLORFUL EVOL X15 AT offers high-speed data transfer of up to 40 Gbps. It comes with 16GB of DDR5 memory, expandable up to 64GB, and a 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD, with an additional empty M.2 slot for accommodating M.2 PCIe Gen3 SSDs. Pricing and availability The COLORFUL EVOL X15 AT Gaming Laptop is priced at an MSRP of $919 (Rs. 76,000 approx.) for the i5-13500HX 4060 model, and the i7-13700HX 4050 model costs $969 (Rs. 80,135 approx.). Availability will be announced at a later date. After teasers, realme has confirmed the launch of realme 11 Pro Series 5G smartphones realme 11 Pro and realme 11 Pro+ in India on June 8th. The companys new brand ambassador Shah Rukh Khan is seen in the new teaser image. The company has already teased 200MP Samsung ISOCELL HP3 SuperZoom Camera with 4x lossless zoom mode, Super Group Portrait and One Take camera features. The company has partnered with former GUCCI Prints designer Matteo Menotto and the realme Design Studio has also worked on the design of the phone. The company has already released the phone in China last month, so the specifications are already out. You can click Notify Me on the realme site to win, 10000 realme coins worth Rs. 100, get 6-month extended warranty worth up to Rs. 1000 and get up to 50% discount coupon on selected accessories when you purchase the realme 11 Pro Series 5G phones. There is also a flip to win challenge that lets you win the phone. The realme 11 Pro Series 5G launch event on Thursday, 8th June 2023, at 12.00 PM takes place at India Gandhi Stadium Complex, New Delhi. The company should also offer a live stream of the event on its social channels. Apple has announced three first-time winners of its Swift Student Challenge, ahead of the WWDC23. In a remarkable achievement, Asmi Jain, an Indian student, emerged as one of the three winners of the challenge along with Marta Michelle Caliendo and Yemi Agesin. The Swift Student Challenge is an annual competition organized by Apple during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). Hailing from India, Asmi represents the countrys thriving tech talent and serves as an inspiration for aspiring developers across the nation. This program is intended to provide young developers with an opportunity to showcase their coding abilities and creative projects. The challenge encourages participants to create interactive playgrounds, applications, or other software using Swift, Apples programming language. Swift Student Challenge winners enjoy numerous rewards. First, they receive a special invitation to WWDC and can network with industry leaders, attend instructive sessions, and learn about Apples latest tech at this event. Winners receive an Apple developer membership, a unique WWDC jacket, and other Apple items. Indian Girl Asmi Jain wins at WWDC23 Swift Student Challenge Asmi Jains winning entry in the Swift Student Challenge at WWDC23 is an eye-tracking playground that uses eye movements to train eye muscles. Jain hopes to make the software user-friendly and functional before launching it on the software Store, inspired by her friends uncle and driven by a desire to positively touch others with various eye diseases. Her ultimate goal is to improve the app so that it can strengthen all face muscles and be used as a therapeutic tool. Jains interest in using coding to solve healthcare problems derives from her volunteer work and the creation of a supportive coding forum at her institution. Jain finds motivation and joy in her coding activities by creating meaningful solutions for others. Regarding this, Asmi Jain, Student at Medi-Caps University, Indore said, Russian efforts to declare the ten-month battle for the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut a victory were disputed by revelations about Russian losses and continued advances by Ukrainian forces. When Russia declared victory in Bakhmut, Ukrainian forces were still holding western portions of the city. As Russia began moving most of its troops from the city after the victory announcement, Ukrainian forces advanced and reoccupied the territory Russians had recently captured. The Russian victory was further tarnished when Wagner Group officials complained that they lost 20,000 troops killed and many more wounded during the long battle for the city. Wagner accused the Defense Ministry of not supplying Wagner with sufficient ammunition and supplies to speed up the fighting and reduce Russian (especially Wagner) losses. Ukraine does not release casualty data but it was obvious from satellite photos and reports from eyewitnesses that Ukrainian casualties were much lower because the Russians were doing most of the attacking without using many armored vehicles or tanks. Ukrainian forces largely fought from inside buildings or well-protected bunkers and had several safe (from enemy fire) displacement routes prepared so that the Ukrainian troops could safely abandon a position and move to another. These protected routes were also used to bring in supplies or evacuate casualties. The Internet chatter about losses in Bakhmut confirmed the heavier Russian losses. Some Ukrainians criticized the defense of the city because of the Ukrainian losses. In the end, the Battle for Bakhmut absorbed all the offensive forces available to the Russians and basically lost most of those troops taking a city where a proclaimed victory turned out to be an embarrassing defeat. Russia is rebuilding an offensive force in Russia but this process wont be complete for another year. Meanwhile the reluctant conscripts and mobilized reservists in Ukraine have little training, few weapons and poor leadership. Russia is also training more junior combat officers to replace the heavy losses suffered in early 2022. Most of the Russian losses at Bakhmut were not Russian soldiers but Russian mercenaries working for the Wagner Group, a private military contractor organization formed in 2014 on the order of Vladimir Putin. He asked Yevgeny Prigozhin, one of the wealthy Russian businessmen who backed Putin, to organize it and that included finding an experienced special operations officer to run day-to-day operations. This turned out to be retired spetsnaz Lt. Col. Dmitry Utkin, whose code name was Wagner. Utkin understood that Wagner Group was created for carrying out illegal military operations outside Russia. The first of these was the 2014 seizure of Crimea from Ukraine. Wagner Group has been in Ukraine ever since and increased its personnel there to over 50,000 by 2022. Smaller number of Wagner Group personnel work around the world as highly paid mercenaries working for foreign governments, especially in Africa. Wagner Group requires large payments from the Russian government to keep its operations going and expanding. These payments are illegal, if only because private military contractors are illegal in Russia. Recently additional military contractor organizations have been created by powerful Russian businessmen. To many Russians, this proliferation of private armies seems to be the prelude to another Russian Civil War. The heavy dependence on Wagner Group forces in Ukraine is the result of Wagner Group having access to more money and fewer restrictions than the Russian Defense Ministry and military. The high cost of operation Wagner Group has been noticed because Wagner Group operations are often noted as a reason for the heavy economic sanctions imposed on Russia by NATO countries because of the fighting in Ukraine. Initially, the invasion force included no mercenaries, just military personnel. This force was largely destroyed during the first few months of fighting. Putin promised a short war and now was stuck with a much larger war that eventually threatened his position as Russian leader. Putin brought in the Wagner Group to save the situation in Ukraine. Wagner Group made a difference, but not enough to change the likely outcome of the war. This led to Wagner Group and the Defense Ministry blaming each other for the mess. The war in Ukraine is not popular inside Russia and that has made it difficult for the military to recruit new troops to fight in Ukraine. Russia conscripts a quarter million young Russian men each year for one year of conscript service. The law stipulates that conscripts cannot be sent to a combat zone outside Russia. Putin tried to get around this by declaring Ukraine was actually part of Russia and Russian troops were there to put down an insurrection. Most conscripts and especially their parents, did not go along with this. This forced the government to spend a lot more money to get more nominally volunteers (contract soldiers) by forcing men with military service or and many with none to be mobilized into the military as highly paid contract soldiers. This worked initially until reports of the high casualty rates of contract soldiers in Ukraine became widely known. This led to more illegal schemes to obtain volunteers. This included forcing or deceiving conscripts into signing contracts to serve longer as contract soldiers. The war-related sanctions on Russia had caused an economic recession and good civilian jobs were hard to find. Pay for contract soldiers was completive with similar jobs and that was not a bad deal when there was not a war going on in Ukraine. So far this year, Russia has recruited nearly 200,000 contract soldiers. Most of these have no training and this means a few months, or at least weeks, of training is needed to make these men useful, rather than an obstacle, in combat. Wagner Group is not restricted in how it recruits and it was able to recruit many convicts from prison. The deal was that if they survived their six month contract they would be free to leave and would also get a pardon and not return to prison. The Defense Ministry later tried this but had little success as Wagner Group had few restrictions on how it handled convict contract soldiers. If any of these men disobeyed orders or faltered in combat, they could be killed on the spot. That was standard practice in the Russian military during World War II and was enforced by special secret police (NKVD) units and political officers (Zampolits) assigned to commanders of units company or larger on up. Zampolits could execute reluctant soldiers or commanders. Wagner Force is the only military organization in Russian that is allowed to use this older but now officially forbidden, leadership style. Its common knowledge that Wager Group operates this way and anyone joining knows it. Some Russians have called for the military to adopt the old-school disciplinary procedures, Most Russians do not want that, or the Wagner Group, the war in Ukraine or Vladimir Putin. This has led to more popular opposition to the war and Putin and more of the opposition are resorting to violence because nothing else seems to work. Putin stays in power by dealing with the opposition. That comes at a visible cost. Many Russians are getting out of Russia to avoid military service or unemployment or simply because of Putins autocratic rules. Putins response was to declare it illegal to leave Russia without official permission. Many are leaving despite the restrictions; via whatever way they can come up with. Putin always admired the Soviet Union and now he is turning Russia back into a totalitarian police state. Those who back Putin believe Russia will eventually prevail in Ukraine, even if it takes decades. Most Russians, Ukrainians and NATO members disagree and now consider Russia a threat to everyone. May 29, 2023: Ukrainian air force leaders believe that Ukraine needs about fifty F-16 fighters to deal with the Russian air force. NATO recently agreed to provide these aircraft, which Russia does not want to face in combat. Since the end of the Cold War in 1991, the F-16 has been the most frequently purchased combat aircraft. This is because the F-16 has a long track record of reliability and success against Russian built warplanes. F-16s have regularly defeated Russian aircraft in the air as well as Russian air defense systems. It is easier to fly and maintain than Russian warplanes and very effective at air-to-air combat and attacking ground targets. Even without the F-16s, Ukraines Russian made warplanes have prevented the larger Russian air force from gaining air supremacy over Ukraine. The Ukrainian F-16s will put the Russian air force on the defensive and expose Russian targets to more effective airstrikes. May 28, 2023: In Turkey, president Recep Erdogan won another five year term, extending his rule of Turkey to 25 years. This was a surprise outside Turkey, where Turkish economic and corruption problems as well as a unified opposition seemed to doom Erdogans reelection hopes. Erdogan remaining in power is bad news for NATO and encouraging to Vladimir Putin. Erdogan and Putin often cooperate, despite the fact that NATO was formed to protect members from Russian aggression. May 27, 2023: Russian launched its largest yet cruise missile attack on the Ukrainian capital. Because only 54 Shahed-136 missiles were used, all but two of them were shot down. The attack was at night, which Russia believes makes the Shahed-136 harder to detect and shoot down. Because this attack was at night there were fewer people on the street and there was only one casualty, a man killed by falling debris from a building that was hit. Russian missile attacks on Ukrainian cities and military facilities are increasingly ineffective. Ukraine has built a layered air defense system that makes it impossible for Russia to obtain air superiority and carry out airstrikes. The forced Russia to use air, ground and ship launched cruise and ballistic missiles. A year of this has left Russia short of enough guided munitions to make regular or massive attacks. Steady improvements in Ukrainian air defenses had led to a higher proportion (often 100 percent) of Russian missiles destroyed. Some still get through, but that is increasingly rare. For example, today Russia launched another barrage of missiles against Ukraine, using 48 missiles of various types. Only ten were conventional cruise (Kh-101/555) missiles while seven were S-300 anti-aircraft missiles modified to operate as a short range cruise missile and the remaining 31 were Iranian Shahed-136 missiles. These weigh 200 kg (440 pounds) and are 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. To be effective Shahed-136 is launched in swarms, which was the case with this attack. Shahed-136 is propeller driven using a noisy gasoline engine. Aptly described as low (altitude), slow and loud, Shahed-136 is easy to detect and shoot down. All these missiles were launched from different bases and approached their Ukrainian targets from different directions in an effort to reduce the effectiveness of Ukrainian anti-aircraft defenses. The ten cruise missiles were intercepted as were 23 of the Shahed-136s and two reconnaissance UAVs used to spot specific targets for the attack. The attack was aimed at targets in several cities and towns. Attacks like this are increasingly rare because Russia has used up most of its pre-war stockpile of missiles and is now relying on newly manufactured or obtained (from Iran) missiles. Because of the unexpected effectiveness of Ukrainian antimissile defenses, Russia accumulates as many different cruise missiles as possible before launching a large scale attack that will ensure that some of the missiles reach targets. May 26, 2023: The UAV division of the Kalashnikov company is expanding the types of UAVs it manufactures, putting more emphasis on UAVs operating as cruise missiles; carrying explosives on a one way attack mission. This is not the first combat UAV Kalashnikov has developed. In 2019 they introduced the first of three models of its Lantset loitering munitions. All versions of Lantset are small, propeller-driven UAVs that send back a video signal to the operator and carry an explosive warhead. Initially Lantset came in two sizes. Lantset 1 weighs 5 kg (11 pounds), can stay airborne for 30 minutes and carries a 1 kg (2.2 pound) warhead. Lantset 3 weighs 12 kg (26 pounds), can stay airborne for 40 minutes and carries a 3 kg (6.6 pound) warhead. In 2021 a KUB-BLA maritime version was introduced that had a delta wing design with a propeller in the rear. This naval model is small, being 1.2 meters (48 inches) long with a 950mm (37 inch) wingspan. Endurance is 30 minutes and explosive payload is 3 kg (6.6 pounds). This one has not been offered for sale yet but has been flight tested and is to be equipped with a guidance system that enables groups of KUB-BLAs to operate autonomously in a swarm to attack a target or targets. May 25, 2023: The United States imposed sanctions on Ivan Maslov, the commander of Wagner Group forces in Mali and responsible for the recent effort to break the weapons import sanctions imposed on Russia via arms deals in the name of the Mali government. May 24, 2023: After two weeks of dedicated and persistent Ukrainian artillery attacks on Russian artillery, rocket launchers and large (120mm and up) caliber mortars the artillery systems available to Russian forces has been reduced by nearly 2,700 along the 1,500 kilometer front line in southeastern and southern Ukraine. In one day this effort destroyed 40 Russian systems. The Ukrainians are using counterbattery artillery spotting radars and reconnaissance USVs as well as reports from Ukrainian civilians and special forces sent into Russian occupied Ukrainian territory to find targets and call in artillery fire. The small Ukrainian infantry special forces units are also collecting details of Russian defenses, details that are missed just using aerial and satellite reconnaissance. May 23, 2023: In Germany crew training for Ukrainians using 110 Leopard 1 tanks has been completed. The Leopard 1 entered service in 1961 and began getting replaced by Leopard 2s in 1979. Some 3,600 Leopard 2s have been built since 1979, most of them before the Cold War ended in 1991. In the 1990s major users of Leopard 2s retired many of these tanks. Germany had 2,100 Leopard 2s and retired most of them by selling them off, at very attractive prices, to friendly countries. Despite this flood of low cost Leopard 2s, many nations kept their Leopard 1s. The 42-ton Leopard 1 and its 105mm gun could deal with any Russian tank, but not as efficiently as a 61-ton Leopard 2 and its 120mm gun. Ukrainians have been building tanks for nearly a century and know these combat vehicles quite well. A hundred Leopard 1A5s will overwhelm the Russians faster than a few dozen Leopard 2s and Challengers 2s. There were more Leopard 1A5s available from European nations that realized their values and put them in storage rather than scrapping them. The Ukrainians are using the Leopard 1s to support their infantry, especially the infantry traveling in IFVs (Infantry Fighting Vehicles). These have thinner armor than the Leopard 1s but with the direct attack firepower provided by the 105mm guns of the Leopard 1s and mobile artillery further back, provide a combined arms attack force the Russians are not prepared to handle. This mobile attack force can move to portions of the front line the Russians were not able to fortify with tank obstacles and landmines. This is what the Russians feared the Ukrainians might do and it means the elaborate defenses Russia has built will be bypassed and the Ukrainian mobile units will capture large portions of Russian occupied Ukraine. This is the sort of fighting not seen in Europe since World War II. These were the tactics the Germans used in 1941-42 and the Russians when they counterattacked from 1943 to 1945 to end the war. May 22, 2023: In northeastern Ukraine several American MRAP armored trucks carrying nearly a hundred members of the Freedom of Russia Legion crossed the border into the Russian province of Belgorod. After three days of fighter the attackers returned to Ukraine with three captured Russian armored vehicles and gave a press conference and declared that this was the first of many such attacks by the Freedom of Russia Legion, which is determined to end the war in Ukraine and prevent the Russian economy from being permanently damaged by over a year of economic sanctions. The attackers released UAV video showing Russian soldiers panicking and refusing to fight while seeking places to hide. The Russian government had a hard time responding to this kind of threat and blamed a recent series of attacks inside Russia on similar groups. These attacks have cut railroad lines, derailed trains and blown up military targets inside Russia and Russian occupied Crimea, which Russia claims is now part of Russia. May 21, 2023: Russia continues to keep most of its Black Sea fleet in the port of Novorossiysk, which is on the east coast of the Black Sea. Russia built a naval base at Novorossiysk that was completed in 2012. Two years later Russia seized the Crimean Peninsula and the naval port of Sevastopol from Ukraine. In the late year constant attacks on Russian warships by Ukrainian USVs (Unmanned Surface Vehicles) and UAVs as well as anti-ship missiles has forced Russia to use Novorossiysk as their main naval base for the Black Sea Fleet. From this port small Russian warships carry out patrols near Crimea but rarely further west where the main Ukrainian port of Odessa is. From there Russian warships armed with Kalibr cruise missiles can launch attacks on Ukrainian cities and military bases. May 20, 2023: The Russian air force has ordered that most of its SU-25 ground attack aircraft be upgraded to the Su-25SM3 standard that was developed in 2012 in an effort to match the capabilities of the American A-10C. a recent (2005) upgrade to the 1970s A-10 design that added the ability to use guided bombs and missiles. The Americans went ahead and upgraded most of their A-10s while Russia dropped plans to upgrade all the Su-25s because the money was not available. The few aircraft upgraded to Su-25SM3a were tested and found quite effective and popular with pilots. Su-25s have been heavily used in Ukraine by Russia and the Ukrainians, who inherited many Su-25s when the Cold War ended and kept them in service. May 19, 2023: Russia has agreed to allow Cubans living in Russian to join the army as contract soldiers and, after a year of service, receive Russian citizenship. Thousands of Cubans already live and work in Russian as expatriates, on work visas. Russia and Cuba have been allies for over sixty years and many Cubans learn Russian while in Cuban schools. Russian encourages Russian speaking Cubans with essential skills, especially doctors, to come work in Russia. Cuban engineers and other technical personnel have also migrated to Russia. May 18, 2023: Ukraine reported that Russia lost 660 soldiers, four tanks, 21 cruise missiles and ten UAVs in the last 24 hours. In the last year the major source of Russian losses has been the fighting near the city of Bakhmut. Russian commentators noted that Russia lost more troops (over 20,000) than the 15,000 that were lost in eight years during nine years of fighting in Afghanistan during the 1980s. The Mali military government use of Russian Wagner Group mercenaries has not proved very effective for Mali but has provided Russian with an opportunity to get past the sanctions imposed on Russia and obtain needed weapons for Russian forces in Ukraine. Wagner arms buyers representing Wagner needs in Mali have been able to purchase large quantities of weapons and military equipment that is diverted to Russian forces in Ukraine. American intelligence efforts revealed the true destination of the weapons and equipment purchased for operations in Mali. Wagner was hired by the Mali military government in 2021 to train Mali troops, especially in the use of weapons purchased from Russia. The supply of Russian weapons, and Wagner mercenaries was disrupted in February 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine and heavy sanctions were imposed on Russia by NATO countries. African countries didnt care what Russia was doing in Ukraine but did care about their disrupted weapons supply line from Russia. There are about a thousand Wagner personnel in Mali and the Mali military government has no problem paying the mercenaries or for weapons purchased from Russia. Mali is a major producer of gold and the Russians will take payment in gold. Russia maintains a huge gold stockpile (about 2,300 tons), the fifth largest in the world. May 17, 2023: Russia continues to ignore American requests for comment on why the Russian Kosmos 2558 has spent eight months locked in the same orbit as USA-326, an otherwise secret American spy satellite. The Russian satellite has remained 60 kilometers from the American satellite, which is close enough to visually and electronically monitor what USA-326 was doing. Last year the United States accused Russia of deliberately launching their Kosmos 2558 satellite on August 1st 2022 and placing it in the same orbit as a new American spy satellite launched earlier (February). Within 24 hours of launch Kosmos 2558 locked into the same orbit as the new American surveillance satellite, but 60 kilometers away and clearly capable of getting closer. This is what is known as an inspector satellite that closely examines other satellites to determine their capabilities and weaknesses. May 15, 2023: Russian reserves of 152mm artillery munitions are exhausted and production facilities in Russia are unable to supply additional shells quickly enough to refill the depleted war reserve. Russia received 300,000 shells from Iran and a similar amount from North Korea. South Korea maintains a large stockpile of 155mm shells and that has persuaded North Korea to limit the number of shells they send Russia. NATO nations have provided Ukraine with over a million 155mm shells and a smaller quantity of 152mm shells. NATO nations have more production capabilities for artillery shells but not enough to keep the Ukrainians supplied with what they need. This means that both Ukrainian and Russian forces have less artillery ammunition than they need. This favors the Ukrainians, who's attacking forces will face less artillery fire while they are advancing and out in the open. May 14, 2023: Two Russian colonels were killed in eastern Ukraine near Bakhmut. During 15 months of fighting Russia has lost an unusually large number of senior (colonels and generals) officers. This is the result of overall poor leadership in the military as well as the continuing corruption. Senior officers go to the front line to see for themselves before they act against the corrupt officials. Shortages of amm0, weapons, medical care and food are all usually the result of someone stealing it before the troops get it. Heavy losses during the first few months of the war caused heavy losses among junior officers and these take time to replace. May 12, 2023: The UN released its report on the March 2022 massacre of civilians in central Mali by Russian mercenaries and Mali soldiers. The UN investigators interviewed 157 civilians who were there and survived and collected compelling and ample evidence of the lawless behavior. The UN investigators also used satellite photos taken at the time of the incident that documented the many dead (about 500). Russia and the Mali government insist those dead bodies were Islamic terrorists but offer no evidence nor an explanation why the soldiers and Russians withdrew when armed Islamic terrorists did advance. The UN report did not specify what country the foreign mercenaries came from. May 7, 2023: The three nations (China, Russia and Pakistan) that have the most economic activity with Afghanistan are urging the IEA to help Afghanistan as well as the IEA by allowing women to work. Another needed activity is cracking down on the drug cartels and Islamic terror groups that currently operate freely. So far the IEA has ignored these suggestions. In response, the world largely ignored the IEA and Afghanistan. May 6, 2023: Vladimir Putin has ordered major changes in Russias UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) design and production capabilities. The Ukraine War saw Russia suffering heavy UAV losses due to Ukrainian countermeasures and shortcomings in Russian UAV design and tactics. Putin ordered expansion of Russian UAV production and less dependence on foreign, especially Western, components. To pay for this Putin budgeted $59 billion for procurement of 670,000 Russian UAVs through the end of the decade. Most of the new UAVs will be smaller models, especially quadcopters, while 16,000 will be larger (half-ton and up) models. Ukrainian forces made heavy and effective use of commercial quadcopters during the current war. Noting that, Putin is also expanding training for UAV operators and designers. This heavy spending makes possible the construction of more production facilities, including factories producing all the needed components. Putin expects Russian industry to develop effective substitutes for foreign components by the end of the decade. This will be difficult because foreign producers not only design and build better components but are constantly developing new technologies. Even after the demise of the inefficient Soviet industries in the 1990s, Russia was unable to replace them with Western quality equivalents. Since the 1990s Russia has lost a lot of the local tech talent; this exodus accelerated after Russia seized Crimea in 2014 and especially since Russia invaded Ukraine over a year ago. Putin pledged to exempt technical talent from being mobilized into the army for the Ukraine War but proved unable to prevent local officials from ignoring these restrictions. The talent saw this coming and now Russia has a shortage of skilled workers in general. The talent began leaving as soon as the Soviet Union collapsed. This allowed Russians to freely travel abroad. In the last year Putin has enacted laws limiting trips outside Russia but its too late. May 5, 2023: In southern Syria (Daraa province) there has been a lot of random violence in the province so far in 2013, with at least 181 separate incidents of violence that left 136 dead and hundreds wounded. A lot of this is related to the Russian presence in the area. The violence is mainly against Syrian army personnel. This level of violence remained fairly constant since 2018. This is part of the undeclared war between Iranian and Syrian forces going on there since 2018. Anonymous assassins use pistols and hidden bombs to kill those who work, or worked for government forces or Russia and Syria backed local militias. There are also attacks against former members of ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) and other militant groups. These victims had accepted amnesty. Russian and Assad forces openly force Iran-backed groups and individuals out of the area. There is no open violence because Iran, Syria and Russia are still officially allies. Israel sometimes fires on Iranian forces operating in Daraa, especially near the Israeli border. Israel also shares intel with Russia and Syria about Syrian officers who are secretly working for Iran. The Iranians pay well, and in dollars. Israel will sometimes release evidence of this to the media, so that Iranians back home have another reason to oppose Iranian foreign wars. Negotiations have been underway between Iran and Russia/Syria since 2020 but have not made much progress. The covert Iranian violence is just another incentive for Syria to get the Iranian agents out of the area. In 2022 and 2023 much of the violence is from other groups, some of them criminal gangs retaliating against those who refuse to pay for protection from the violence. Daraa is the most violent province but similar violence continues in many parts of Syria. May 4, 2023: Ukraine is delaying the start of its much anticipated offensive against Russian troops occupying portions of Ukraine. The delay is caused by the growing number of Western tanks arriving in Ukraine or adjacent NATO countries where training on new equipment usually takes place. For over a year Ukrainians have asked NATO countries for Western tanks like the M1, Leopard and Challenger. The superiority of these tanks over anything Russia has is well known. For Ukraine, the more of these tanks they have, the fewer Ukrainian troops will be killed or wounded. The Ukrainian troops know as well as the largely demoralized Russian soldiers. The Ukrainians are delaying the offensive so they can incorporate as many of the Western tanks as they can. As of early May, Ukraine had received and put into service 14 Leopard 2A6s from Germany and 14 Challenger 2 tanks from Britain. The Leopard 2A6 is a 61 ton tank with a more powerful version of the NATO standard 120mm tank gun and exceptional fire control and protection. The Challenger 2 is a 64-ton tank that has similar combat performance to the 2A6 even though the Leopard is more up-to-date. For all practical purposes these two tanks outclass anything the Russians have. May 2, 2023: Russia sent some of their TOS-1A tank-mounted thermobaric 220mm rocket launchers to Ukraine a month ago and have been training airborne troops how to use these unique weapons. They were recently used in eastern Ukraine by Russian airborne troops. A TOS-1A vehicle carries 24 220mm rockets while a separate reload vehicle carries two pods containing rockets. An empty pod on the TOS-1A vehicle can be removed and replaced with a full pod in minutes. Thermobaric is one of several terms for fuel-air explosives (FAEs). Another popular term is vacuum bomb. Russians favor the term thermobaric while Americans prefer FAE. These weapons are a relatively recent development. Efforts to develop a workable FAE began over a century ago, during World War I (1914-18). Efforts continued after the war and through World War II (1939-45) and into the 1950s. In the 1960s the Americans came up with a workable and reliable FAE design and used it a lot during the Vietnam War. Russia got their thermobaric tech perfected a decade after the United States. Russia considered FAE devices chemical weapons and saw their TOS-1A vehicles as flamethrowers. Many NATO and Russian-backed nations also obtained or developed some FAE weapons. FAEs are incredibly destructive, because they literally create a fireball. These range in size from a few meters in diameter to over 500 meters, The smallest ones are FAE hand grenades or small projectiles while the larger ones are aircraft-transported bombs. Some short range ballistic missiles also have optional FAE warheads. Technically, FAE devices can be incredibly destructive, incinerating anyone inside the fireball. Efforts to ban FAEs as inhumane and a crime against humanity have failed. This is largely because FAEs are simply a specialized explosive that is not radioactive and does not generate a lot of metal fragments. FAEs can do things high-explosives cannot do. Clearing minefields is one example. Another is destroying an enemy position in a remote area with a lot of underground bunkers and surrounded by minefields. Since September 11, 2001 American forces have regularly used FAEs, some air dropped, to clear minefields. FAEs will detonate the mines and reach deep into caves or bunkers to kill anyone in there. Islamic terrorists have tried, with mixed success, to include improvised FAEs for major attacks. Russia first used TOS-1 vehicles in Afghanistan during the 1980s. At the time, the TOS rockets only had a range of 3,500 meters (about two miles) and demonstrated sufficient performance there and later in Syria and Iraq to revive sales of some older systems. One of the more unique among these revived weapons is the TOS-1A. The TOS stands for heavy flamethrower system because the TOS-1A only fires rockets equipped with FAE (Fuel Air Explosives) warheads. The TOS-1A is a 45 ton vehicle that uses a T-72 tank chassis with the turret replaced by a box-like launcher for 24 220mm rockets. These come in two sizes, one is 3.3 meters (20.8 feet) long and weighs 173 kg (381 pounds) while the other is 3.7 meters (12.1 feet) long and weighs 217 kg (478 pounds). The larger rocket has a longer (6,000 meters) range. The TOS-1A is not a direct-fire weapon but the vehicle is meant to get close to the target and is equipped with a laser range finder and computerized fire control system to elevate the launcher to the right angle to put the unguided rocket as close to the target as possible. May 1, 2023: Recent Russian air strikes against Ukrainian cities using Iranian Shahed-136s resulted in one of the UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) developing 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. April 30, 2023: In the latest arms shipment to Ukraine the United States included thousands of M21 anti-tank mines. The metal, 8 kg (17.5 pound) mines that, once planted and armed, will detonate when anything moving over it weighs more than 136 kg (300 pounds), sending a curved metal bar upwards. This will blow the track off a tank and can also penetrate up to 50mm of armor. Tanks and smaller armored vehicles running over an M21 become mobility kills. This means they cannot move because of damaged tracks and/or tires/track wheels and suspension system. If this happens during combat, the vehicles and their crews are in big trouble. That often means the crew abandons the vehicle and seeks shelter elsewhere. Historically, most tank and armored fighting vehicle (AFV) losses come from mobility kills. The Ukraine War was unique because top attack ATGMs (anti-tank guided missiles) were able to destroy tanks and AFVs by causing the turret to explode and kill the entire crew. Now the Ukrainians are on the offensive and have to devote a lot of men and resources to removing anti-tank and anti-personnel mines. With the M21 mines the Ukrainians can protest quiet sectors of the front line from surprise armored attacks with these mines. Russia has used a lot of anti-personnel and anti-tank mines in Ukraine and the Ukrainian forces have been supplied with equipment and training to find and destroy or disable them. Russia has deployed thousands of these mines in the southeast to disrupt a Ukrainian offensive. Russia has mapped these minefields in case they are no longer needed and the mines can be removed. If Russia is defeated, those minefield maps are unlikely to be given to the Ukrainians and the mines will be a public hazard for years to come. Ukraine will have to maintain mine-clearing teams and await reports from local civilians about minefield discoveries. April 29, 2023: Russian troops are still in Libya, a North African country that remains divided and deadlocked. There are two main factions, one in the east based in Tobruk and another in Tripoli, in the west. The UN backs the Tripoli faction, as do local Islamic militias and Turkish troops and their mercenaries. The eastern faction controls most of the oil and export ports. Russian Wagner Group mercenaries are based in the east but now see themselves as peacekeepers and work with the Turks to maintain a ceasefire. This allows Russian oil firms to operate in Libya and do work for the Libyan national oil company. Both factions support national elections to unite the country but neither faction trusts the others enough to proceed with elections. Russia and the Turks refuse to withdraw their troops from Libya until they receive guarantees that their interests in Libya are respected. The UN and NATO oppose that because the Tripoli faction wants to legitimize an illegal treaty signed by the Tripoli faction in 2019 granting Turkey some of Greeces offshore oil and natural gas rights in an area between Libya and Turkey that ignores existing, and internationally recognized, claims on that area. Turkey and Greece are both NATO members and NATO backs Greece in this matter. Turkey wont withdraw its forces from Libya until a new national Libyan government assures the Turks that the illegal agreement is confirmed by a national Libyan government. Many people in both factions do not want to be stuck with a treaty that the UN and NATO consider illegal. Russia is no friend of NATO and is currently at war with NATO in Ukraine. Turkey is also a NATO member but most other NATO members would like to expel the Turks from NATO and there is no legal mechanism for that. Turks and Russians are troublemakers in Europe and Libya is a foreign branch of that mischief. April 28, 2023: Britain began deliveries of its Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine during the last few weeks. Now the Ukrainians have to test and tweak the improvised fire control system of Ukrainian Su-24 and MiG-21 warplanes to ensure that the British missile can be effectively delivered from these Russian -designed aircraft. Washington AP Most in US say don't ban race in college admissions but its role should be small: AP-NORC poll As the Supreme Court decides the fate of affirmative action, most people in the U.S. say the court should allow consideration of race as part of the admissions process WASHINGTON As the Supreme Court decides the fate of affirmative action, most U.S. adults say the court should allow colleges to consider race as part of the admissions process, yet few believe students race should ultimately play a major role in decisions, according to a new poll. The May poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that 63 percent say the Supreme Court should not block colleges from considering race or ethnicity in their admission systems. The poll found little divide along political or racial lines. But those polled were more likely to say factors including grades and standardized test scores should be important, while 68 percent of adults said race and ethnicity should not be a significant factor. The poll reflects general support for affirmative action even as the future of the practice remains in doubt. The Supreme Court is expected to rule soon on lawsuits challenging admissions systems at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina. With a conservative majority on the court, many college leaders are bracing for a decision that could scale back or eliminate the use of race in admissions. Americans views on race in admissions that it should be permitted but only be a small factor generally line up with the way colleges say they use it. Many colleges, especially selective ones, say race is one of many factors that officials can weigh when choosing which students get accepted. They say it is not a large influence but may sometimes give an edge to underrepresented students in close decisions. Critics, however, say the impact is much stronger than colleges let on. A 2009 analysis by sociologist Thomas Espenshade at Princeton University found that, at highly selective private colleges, the boost for Black applicants was equivalent to 310 points on the SAT exam, compared to a 130-point bump given to poor students. Its unknown how many colleges consider race in admissions, and the practice has been outlawed in nine states, including California, Michigan and Florida. Layla Trombley sees it as a matter of fairness. White students have long had the upper hand in admissions because of institutional racism, said Trombley, 47, who is half Black. Affirmative action helps even the playing field, she said. It seems like its hard to get in if you dont have that help, just because were not traditionally thought of as industrious or smart or hardworking, she said. She said she experienced that kind of bias growing up in a mostly white area. At school, it felt like she was always underestimated, she said. Its under the radar, said Trombley, of Cortland, New York, who calls herself politically moderate. Its not said directly, but its implied, like, Youre really good at this, but why dont you try this? In Roswell, Georgia, Andrew Holko also says colleges should be allowed to factor race in its admissions decisions. He sees it as a tool to offset imbalances in Americas public schools, where those in wealthy, white areas tend to get more money from taxes and parent groups than those in Black neighborhoods. He sees that happen in areas like nearby Cobb County in Georgia, where schools in the predominantly Black southern end of the county are poorer than those in whiter areas of the suburban Atlanta county They dont have computers to study with, said Holko, 49, who is white and describes himself as politically independent. They dont have tutoring services available. He added: Affirmative action is necessary to overcome those disparities. In Holkos view, race should be a factor of high importance to make sure college campuses reflect the racial makeup of their communities. Among all Americans, 13 percent said they think race should be a very or extremely important part of the admission process, according to the poll, while 18 percent said it should be somewhat important. Black and Hispanic adults were the most likely to say it should be at least very important. The poll found similar views when it comes to considering gender in admissions 9 percent of adults said it should be very important, 14 percent somewhat important and 77 percent not very or not at all important. Men and women shared similar views on the role of gender. By contrast, 62 percent of Americans think high school grades should be very important, 30 percent said they should be somewhat important. Nearly half said standardized test scores should be very important. To Jana Winston, college admissions should be a matter of merit and nothing more. Students should be chosen based on their grades, test scores and extracurricular activities, she said. I dont think race should have anything in the world to do with it, said Winston, of Batesburg-Leesville, who is half white and half Cherokee. Giving a preference to students of certain races is unfair to others who are just as academically qualified, she said. Theres a lot of kids that work really, really hard, and I dont like the idea of them being pushed out of the way just because the college feels like they need to do something politically correct, said Winston, 50, who is politically moderate and works at Walmart. The Supreme Court has upheld affirmative action in decisions reaching back to 1978. The lawsuits at Harvard and UNC accuse those schools of discriminating against white and Asian students. Lower courts upheld admissions systems at both schools. Many colleges also consider athletics when reviewing applicants, but the poll found that most Americans say it should have little influence. Just 9 percent say athletic ability should be very important, 29 percent say it should be somewhat important. Similarly, few think family ties should be much of a factor. Just 9 percent said it should be very important that a family member attended the school, and 18 percent said it should be somewhat important. Views were similar when it came to students whose families had donated to the university, with just 10 percent saying donations should be highly important. The practice of giving a boost to children of alumni, known as legacy preference, has come under criticism in recent years from critics who say it favors wealthy, white students. Some prominent schools have abandoned it, such as Amherst College and Johns Hopkins University. If the Supreme Court strikes down affirmative action, some education experts believe more colleges will follow suit and drop legacy preferences to remove an obstacle for students of color. Views on the Supreme Court overall have become more negative after last years Dobbs decision that overturned Roe v. Wade and allowed states to ban or severely limit access to abortion. About 12 percent of Americans said they have a great deal of confidence in the court, while 48 percent have only some confidence, and 39 percent have hardly any, according to the poll. The poll of 1,680 adults was conducted May 11-15 using a sample drawn from NORCs probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel, which is designed to be representative of the U.S. population. The margin of sampling error for all respondents is plus or minus 3.4 percentage points. Delaney discovered you dont even have to be conscious to take home the crown! Footage shows her rolling from the top of the hill before finding her feet and attempting to run down the final stretch. However, she loses her footing and goes absolutely flying head-first into the grass so fast that she bounces across the finish line completely dead to the world. bayonel3 at 31-05-2023 02:15 PM (4 days ago) (m) A video has reportedly showed the moment former President, Muhammadu Buhari complained about the air conditioner in his home in Daura, Katsina State. This comes after he vacated office some days ago. He was President of Nigeria for 8 years.In the video he was seen complaining and pointing towards the Air Conditioning (AC) at a corner of the house while others responding to a prayer session being led by a woman. A video has reportedly showed the moment former President, Muhammadu Buhari complained about the air conditioner in his home in Daura, Katsina State. This comes after he vacated office some days ago. He was President of Nigeria for 8 years.In the video he was seen complaining and pointing towards the Air Conditioning (AC) at a corner of the house while others responding to a prayer session being led by a woman. Video not supported. Some of the reactions go thus: Some of the reactions go thus: Quote @Irunnia Is it that he is disguising or is this actually his home??? Im expecting something massive with all the money he looted. @bakassi_s wrote: If you believe this is your ex-presidents house, I have an island property to sell to you in Calabar @harbyodun03 If he had done the necessary thing in the country he wouldnt be lamenting about heat. Na heat go kee am @MrDEE65931449 That is their village farm house naah. A Farm House with Air Conditioner na your mate? Yusuf alone is worth more than 100 Billions Naira. Make anybody no fall for this caping o! E get why! @obaroddy So this is the house he constantly goes to whenever he does sallah and scamming trips to Daura. Dey play na. @proud_mount He has a London home Hes probably confused why there is no power like his London house or Aso Rock @Lefter_11 Buhari is not a thief , neither corrupt. Thats why the masses loves him . If hes to contest for election again, hell win. @OgoJrMathew Baba was earning a good amount as salary to have been able to transform this to something more befitting, so make them no the wyne us. Yes he as a person is not corrupted but he was well paid as a Nigerian president, abi na charity work him go do for 8year. @_ManOfPeace_ Thats not his home. He is disguising. We have seen the place he normally receives visitors when he travels home for sallah. It is nowhere like this @MistAr_Juice Buhari had decent intentions but sadly he enabled favoritism, impartiality and national cake sharing and turned a blind eye. @BejayBake Some Fulani/ Hausa prefer simple life but that doesnt mean they they dont have billions in their account and some turn their wealth into farming. @EBajjali Do you have any proof that Buhari loot? Look at house, if sincerely he loot as you claimed; money is spiritual at least he will still have better AC now! Make una Dey think! Post Reply I scour the world wide web to bring you interesting stories from around the globe. [email protected] Posted: at 31-05-2023 02:15 PM (4 days ago) | Addicted Hero Country United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe Germany's Patriot system to be moved from Slovakia to Lithuania to protect NATO Summit in Vilnius Ministry of Defence of The Slovak Republic 26.05.2023 The two German batteries of the Patriot missile interceptor system currently stationed in Slovakia will move to Lithuania to protect the NATO Summit in Vilnius. This decision has been made following consultations to make efficient use of allied systems and move them where they are needed the most. Clearly, Lithuania has no such capability of its own and NATO troops there are not involved to the extent they are in Slovakia. Defence Minister Martin Sklenar said: "The repositioning of the weapons system comes as a natural part of developments after a responsible assessment of the security situation. As with the swift and major strengthening of Slovakia's air defences by our allies last spring, there is now a need for allied systems to be moved to Vilnius, whilst it holds true that the Alliance guarantees and actually secures the defence of every inch of Alliance territory and of its populations." The head of the SVK MOD emphasised that safeguarding SVK airspace remains a priority. In addition to SVK GBAD systems, Slovakia is protected by an Italian SAMP/T missile system and air defence assets of the NATO Multinational Battlegroup Slovakia (NATO MN BG SVK). In just a matter of weeks, Slovakia will receive the MANTIS system from Germany as a gift to protect its defence infrastructure in the east of the country. The MOD is in negotiations with allies and partners on the options to further strengthen Slovakia's air defences. The joint DEU-SVK action will appreciably add to the security of the NATO Summit in Vilnius. Several countries are involved in putting the necessary security measures in place for this high visibility event. NATO's air and missile defence will be high on the agenda of the summit in Vilnius. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Saudi Real Estate Refinance Company (SRC) said it has successfully completed its latest sukuk issuance of SR3.5 billion. This is its sixth tranche under its upsized Saudi-Riyal-denominated 20 billion sukuk programme, guaranteed by Saudi Ministry of Finance. A unit of Saudi sovereign wealth fund PIF (Public Investment Fund), the SRC stated that the latest tranche issued demonstrates strong investor confidence in SRC and the kingdom's economy. This issuance will enable SRC to keep mortgage rates at low levels, it stated. SRC recently obtained an A- (stable) credit rating from S&P Global and was upgraded by Fitch earlier this year to A+ (stable), while Moodys Ratings upgraded its outlook on SRC to Positive. CEO Fabrice Susini said: "The positive response from investors to its latest sukuk issuance is a clear testament to the strength of the kingdom's housing market and economy." "As SRC continues to refinance existing financings for financiers, we are proud to contribute to the development of a robust secondary home financing market that supports the efficiency and stability of the primary housing market," noted Susini. "This funding will enable us to continue increasing market liquidity and supporting originators and financiers, ultimately promoting stability in the Saudi mortgage market and accelerating homeownership growth in the kingdom," he added. Alrajhi Capital and HSBC Saudi Arabia acted as joint lead co-ordinators on the latest offering, while the joint lead managers are Aljazira Capital, Al Rajhi Capital, HSBC Saudi Arabia, Riyad Capital, and Alinma Investment Company.-TradeArabia News Service Data on interceptions of aircraft completed near the Baltic States' borders on May 22-28, 2023 Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence 2023-05-29 International cooperation On May 22-28 fighter aircraft conducting the NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic states were scrambled twice to identify and escort aircraft of the Russian Federation flying in violation of flight rules in international airspace over the Baltic Sea. On May 25 NATO Air Policing fighter aircraft were scrambled to intercept one Tu-134 headed from Kaliningrad to mainland Russia via international airspace. It had no prefilled flight plan, the crew maintained radio communication with the regional air traffic control centre and kept the onboard transponder switched on. The Tu-134 was escorted by two SU-27 which flew out of Kaliningrad into international airspace and then returned. They had no flight plans, there crews were not maintaining radio communication and their onboard transponders were off. On May 27 NATO Air Policing fighter jets intercepted one AN-26 flying from the mainland of the Russian Federation to Kaliningrad via international airspace. The AN-26 had no pre-filed flight plan, its onboard transponder was off and the crew was not maintaining radio communication. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ex-El Salvador President Sentenced to 14 Years in Absentia for Negotiating With Gangs Sputnik News 20230529 Egor Shapovalov Former El Salvador President Mauricio Funes has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for his involvement in negotiating with gangs during his administration. The trial, which began in April, took place with Funes living in Nicaragua, as El Salvador changed its laws last year to allow trials in absentia. Prosecutors had accused Funes of illicit association and failure to perform his duties regarding a gang truce negotiated in 2012. Funes denied negotiating with the gangs or providing privileges to their leaders. El Salvador has been pursuing Funes, who served as president from 2009 to 2014, on various charges in multiple cases. Additionally, Funes' former Security Minister, General David Munguia Payes, was sentenced to 18 years in prison for his role in the negotiations. Funes received a total sentence of 14 years, comprising eight years for illicit association and six years for failure to perform his duties. The gang negotiations were allegedly aimed at reducing the country's high homicide rate by offering benefits to imprisoned gang leaders. It is worth noting that in 2015, El Salvador's Supreme Court classified the gangs as terrorist organizations. The current President, Nayib Bukele, has also faced allegations of engaging in similar negotiations with the gangs. In December 2021, the US Treasury revealed that Bukele's government had secretly negotiated a truce with street gang leaders, offering privileges in exchange for a decrease in violence and political support for Bukele's party. These allegations were previously reported by local news site. Former Attorney General Raul Melara had pledged to investigate the claims, but when Bukele's party gained control of Congress after the mid-term elections, Melara was ousted. The truce eventually collapsed when the gangs killed 62 people in a single day in March 2022. In response, Bukele suspended certain fundamental rights and initiated an aggressive campaign against the gangs, which continues to this day. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sudan conflict leaves 13.6 million children in desperate need of humanitarian aid UNICEF UNICEF is calling for US$838 million to address the crisis, an increase of US$253 million since the current conflict began in April 2023 29 May 2023 NEW YORK/GENEVA/AMMAN, 30 May 2023 -- As the conflict in Sudan passes the six-week mark, over 13.6 million children are in urgent need of lifesaving humanitarian support, the highest number ever recorded in the country. The impact of ongoing violence continues to threaten the lives and futures of families and children, leaving basic services cut off and many health facilities closed, damaged, or destroyed. The need for humanitarian assistance has never been more critical for children in Sudan, as the most vulnerable populations struggle to survive and be protected. Access to basic necessities is becoming increasingly difficult to secure. Prior to the conflict, nearly nine million children were already in urgent need of humanitarian aid. "As the conflict in Sudan rages on, the toll on children continues to grow more devastating by the day," said Adele Khodr, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa. "These children are not just numbers, they are individuals with families, dreams and aspirations. They are the future of Sudan, and we cannot stand by while their lives are torn apart by violence. The children of Sudan deserve a chance to survive and thrive. No efforts should be spared by all actors to protect the children and their rights". A situation that was already dire for children before the conflict is now at catastrophic levels, with access to food, safe water, electricity, and telecommunications unreliable, inaccessible and unaffordable. Over one million people have fled their homes and are internally displaced in Sudan, including 319,000 who have crossed into neighbouring countries so far, half of whom are believed to be children. Without an immediate and extensive humanitarian response, the consequences of displacement, lack of basic social services, and protection will have devastating - and long-term - effects on children. The overall appeal has increased by US$253 million to meet the additional urgent needs, including to expand the treatment of over 620,000 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, half of whom may die if not helped in time. "Despite challenges with humanitarian access and security due to the active conflict UNICEF continues to deliver in Sudan and together with partners we have been able to deliver much-needed health, water and sanitation and nutrition supplies across the country," said Khodr. More specifically, UNICEF has succeeded in: Delivering 2300 metric tons in trucks loaded with health, nutrition, water and sanitation, and learning/child protection supplies to the displaced population in Madani and to states across the country. Maintaining immunization services across 12 states by securing vaccine supplies and distribution, as well as securing and monitoring the cold chain system. At least 244,000 children were reached with the Polio Zero Dose since the latest conflict started on 15 April. Maintaining over 80 per cent of the Malnutrition treatment centres (OTPs) across Sudan for children with severe wasting. Delivering 1,440 cartons of Ready-To-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) and health and hygiene supplies for over 300 children in an orphanage centre in Khartoum. Without such treatment, these children would be at high risk of dying. Providing 104,000 people with safe water through water trucking, operation and maintenance and rehabilitation of water supply facilities; 92,000 people were reached with key hygiene messages and hygiene-related non-food items; latrines were secured for 1,000 IDPs. Offered Psychosocial support to at least 5,500 children and their parents who are traumatized by the violence in Sudan. In addition, monitoring systems were activated to denounce and report violence against the children. Maintaining a total of 356 Alternative Learning Program (ALP) centres in 10 states, including West Darfur, and providing secure learning spaces for 16,812 girls and boys. Maintaining 42 e-learning centres in East Darfur, Kassala, Red Sea, South Darfur and White Nile, benefitting 2,520 girls and boys, and a child-friendly space in Port Sudan, benefiting 117 children. ##### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Remarks by President Biden Before Marine One Departure May 29, 2023 South Lawn 2:40 P.M. EDT Q Mr. President, give us an update on the debt ceiling deal. Are you confident it'll pass Congress? THE PRESIDENT: Look, you know I never say I'm confident what the Congress is going to do. But I feel very good about it. I've spoken with a number of the members. I spoke to McConnell. I spoke to a whole bunch of people. And it feels good. We'll see when the vote starts. And, look, one of the things that I hear some of you guys saying is, "Why doesn't Biden say what a good deal it is?" Why would Biden say what a good deal it is before the vote? You think that's going to help me get it passed? No. That's why you guys don't bargain very well. Anyway. Q Mr. President, what's your message to - Q Mr. President - THE PRESIDENT: Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait. So that's number one. Number two, I spoke to Erdogan and congratulated Erdogan. And he he still wants to work on something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted a deal with Sweden, so let's get that done. And so we'll be back in touch with one another. But I it was basically a congratulatory call. And - Q S- THE PRESIDENT: Yes. Q Sir, what's your message to House Democrats who have reservations about this compromise bill? THE PRESIDENT: "Talk to me." Q And what would you tell them? THE PRESIDENT: I'm not going to tell you. Q Why not? THE PRESIDENT: Look, you guys all get on and say, "Tell them what a good deal it is." How about how about if this was 100 percent deal for the Democrats? Do you think it would help me get it passed? Q Well, who got the better deal? THE PRESIDENT: Wai- do you think it's going to help me get it passed? Come on. Q Mr. President, who got the better deal? Q What do you think of the way that the 2024 Republican field is shaking out? THE PRESIDENT: I haven't been able to keep up with it. (Laughs.) It's moving so quickly. And, you know, I'm not being facetious; I'm being very serious. I haven't focused on it that much. It seems to have a lot of competent candidates who are trying to get the nomination. So we'll see. Q Will you whip votes yourself among Democrats and progressives? Will you make personal contact or leave that to the Hill? THE PRESIDENT: Oh, I've made some calls already. Q To who, Mr. President? Have you talked to Congresswoman Jayapal? And do you think you can get progressives on board? THE PRESIDENT: The answer is: I don't know. I have a good relationship with Jayapal. I haven't had a chance to speak to her yet. Q Who got the better deal? Who got the better deal Democrats or Republicans? THE PRESDEINT: It's a bipartisan deal. Q Will this be done by June 5th? THE PRESIDENT: Oh, yes. Q No question? THE PRESIDENT: Well you guys are you guys you realize you're not in the real world. "No question." There is no reason why it shouldn't get done by the 5th. I'm confident that we'll get a vote in both houses. And we'll see. Q (Inaudible.) Russia is doubling down its attacks on Kyiv. THE PRESIDENT: I'm sorry, I'm not Q Do you have any reaction as to (inaudible) attacks on Kyiv today? They attacked three times today. THE PRESIDENT: I'm sorry, I don't understand the question. I can't I apologize. Q Russia is doubling down THE PRESIDENT: Russia is doubling down Q on attacks on Kyiv. THE PRESIDENT: Yes. Q Do you have any reaction? THE PRESIDENT: It's not unexpected. And that's it's just pure it's not unexpected. That's why we got to continue to give Ukraine all that it needs. Q Are you expecting any movement on Sweden's membership in NATO on Erdogan's part? THE PRESIDENT: I raised that issue with him. We're going to talk more about it next week. Q Is it time for ATACMS for Ukraine? ATACMS for Ukraine. THE PRESIDENT: That's still in play. Q Mr. President, on defense spending, some of the some Republicans are saying that this deal does not raise does not give the Pentagon enough money. Can you guarantee that America's fighting force is going to have what it needs for the next couple years? THE PRESIDENT: Look, whatever the fighting force needs, if there's another first of all, they passed my budget, what I asked for in defense. They passed that. Obviously, if there's any existential need for additional funding, I have no doubt we'd be able to get it because we'd jointly do it. All right, thanks, everyone. Q Does the U.S. have any (inaudible) to Uganda? THE PRESIDENT: I'm sorry, I'm having trouble hearing you. Q On Uganda, sir any message to the people of Uganda? THE PRESIDENT: Not right now, no. I think I heard the question. Don't get your feet dirty, man. All right? Q I got one. Did you see that Ron DeSantis said that if he became President, he would pardon Trump? Where are you on the idea of presidents pardoning Trump? THE PRESIDENT: (Laughs and waves.) (Inaudible.) It's a great question. Thank you. 2:45 P.M. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Council nearly doubles the EU's financial assistance to Moldova to a total of 295 million European Council / Council of the European Union Council of the EU Press release 30 May 2023 The Council today decided to nearly double the amount of macro-financial assistance to Moldova which it had agreed to provide a year ago. In April 2022, it had adopted legislation which enables the EU to help Moldova financially with 150 million. It increased this amount today by 145 million which means that a total of 295 million will be available to Moldova. The Union's macro-financial assistance aims to support the economic stabilisation and the structural reform agenda of Moldova, supplementing resources made available under the IMF's financial arrangement. Moldova can continue to count on the EU. We will continue to support Moldova, also financially. Given the current circumstances, it is appropriate that we double the funds which we make available to Moldova. - Elisabeth Svantesson, Minister for Finance of Sweden Of the maximum amount of 295 million, the EU will provide up to 220 million in the form of loans and up to 75 million in the form of grants. The assistance shall contribute to covering Moldova's balance-of-payments needs as identified in the IMF programme. There are considerable negative effects of Russia's war in Ukraine on the Moldovan economy. Given that there is still a significant residual external financing gap in Moldova's balance of payments for 2023, over and above the resources provided by the IMF and other multilateral institutions, the Council considered it necessary to increase the Union's macro-financial assistance provided to Moldova. That increase is, under the current exceptional circumstances, considered to be an appropriate response to Moldova's request for support to its economic stabilisation, in conjunction with the IMF programme. This decision will enter into force on the third day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Background The EU and its member states stand united in their unwavering support for Moldova. Moldova was granted EU candidate status in June 2022. Already before being granted EU candidate status, Moldova received financial assistance from the EU under the European Neighbourhood Instrument. This assistance is now increasing. The EU is helping Moldova in parallel with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme for Moldova of 20 December 2021 under the Extended Credit Facility/Extended Fund Facility arrangement. In May 2022, as a result of the growing financing needs stemming largely from the effects of the war in Ukraine on the Moldovan economy, the IMF also adopted a decision to increase its financial support to Moldova. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kosovo: Statement by High Representative Josep Borrell on the ongoing confrontations European External Action Service (EEAS) 30.05.2023 Strategic Communications The European Union condemns in the strongest terms the violence in the north of Kosovo that we have seen in the last few days. Violent acts against citizens, against media, against law enforcement and the KFOR troops are absolutely unacceptable and bring to a very dangerous situation. We, the European Union, stand firmly behind NATO's mission KFOR in fulfilling its mandate in the interest of the peace and the stability in Kosovo. I have had contacts with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti - again this morning - and with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, overnight. I asked both Parties to urgently take measures to de-escalate tensions immediately and unconditionally. And any further unilateral action has to be avoided and calm being restored. As the first step, I expect Kosovo authorities to suspend police operations focusing on the municipal buildings in the north of Kosovo, and the violent protesters to stand down. I will continue engaging with the two leaders. The European Union expects the Parties to act responsibly and engage immediately in the EU-facilitated Dialogue to find a sustainable solution to the situation in the north of Kosovo that guarantees safety and security for all citizens and paves the way for the implementation of the new Agreement on Path to Normalisation. For that, I am working on organising an urgent High-Level Dialogue Meeting supported by EU Special Representative Miroslav Lajcak. EEAS Deputy Secretary General for peace, security and defence, Charles Fries, is in Kosovo. I asked him to go to Kosovo, he is there, and together with our EU Rule of Law mission, EULEX, as the second security responder, will report to me personally on the situation on the ground. In the meantime, Member States are being informed about the developments and discussing possible measures to be taken if the Parties continue to resist proposed steps towards de-escalation. The Parties are expected to contribute to fruitful regional co-operation and security in Europe and to overcome the legacy of the past. There has been enough violence - there has been too much violence. We have too much violence in Europe already today - we cannot afford another conflict. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Montenegro: Press remarks by High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell before his meeting with President Jakov Milatovic European External Action Service (EEAS) 30.05.2023 Brussels Strategic Communications Check against delivery! It is my pleasure, and a very warm welcome to President [of Montenegro, Jakov] Milatovic here in Brussels. This is our first meeting since you took up office, Mr President, and we appreciate that your first official visit abroad brings you to the capital of the European Union. The fact that you choose Brussels is a clear demonstration of your strong commitment to the European integration of Montenegro. In fact, Montenegro is the most advanced accession candidate, an important ally, and a future Member of the European Union. For that, I want to stress that you are the first on the line, the most advanced accession candidate. And it is taking a long time - I know. For the last decade, Montenegro has been consistently aligned with our positions and decisions in our foreign and security policy - 100% alignment. This, Mr President, deserves our strong appreciation. Of course, there are actors who do not like this principled position and try to undermine Montenegro's stability, security, and its way to Europe. Therefore, from us, our answer has to be to strengthen our support, especially in the area of fending off foreign interference and cyber threats. We will continue providing assistance to increase cybersecurity and to build cyber-resilience through our Euro Rapid Response Programme. We are facing this situation created by the Russian aggression against Ukraine, and in this situation, maintaining Montenegro's strategic orientation will be more important than ever. As I said, on the accession side, Montenegro continues to be the frontrunner, and to maintain this leading position and to move forward, the country needs to continue advancing on important reforms, especially in the area of the rule of law. It is not to please Brussels. It is not to please the Member States - the 27 capitals. It is about ensuring that the citizens of Montenegro begin to feel the benefits of the European Union membership as soon as possible. And you know, Mr President, that you can count on the European Union's support to move your country forward [on] this European Union path. That is what we are going to discuss today. I am looking forward to our discussions and our cooperation in the coming years. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Armenia/Azerbaijan: Statement by the Spokesperson on the normalisation process European External Action Service (EEAS) 30.05.2023 EEAS Press Team The Armenia-Azerbaijan normalisation process has, during the past month, seen an intensification, which the European Union welcomes. The EU believes that it is important to keep this historic momentum and avoid steps, including hostile rhetoric, that could put the peace process at risk. Following the negotiations on the peace treaty that were held in the United States in early May, a leaders' meeting took place in Brussels on 14 May, ahead of another meeting scheduled for 1st June in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova. The leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan also met in Moscow. In Brussels, they focused on several key topics, such as border issues, connectivity, humanitarian issues and the rights and security of Armenians living on the territory of the former Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast. Since then, the leaders reaffirmed publicly their unequivocal commitment to the 1991 Almaty Declaration and the respective territorial integrity of Armenia (29,800 km2) and Azerbaijan (86,600 km2). We welcome Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's courageous statement in this regard on 22 May and Armenia's clear readiness to work on the delimitation of the bilateral border. We also welcome Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's statement on 25 May. As work on these sensitive issues continues, it is key to take steps to build confidence, engage in good faith and show leadership to reach solutions on all issues pertaining to comprehensive normalisation. Despite the difficult conflict history and past grievances, all issues need to be resolved exclusively by peaceful means, through dialogue. The EU is committed to supporting the parties in this endeavour. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement by the European Commission on the Polish law establishing a State Committee for the Examination of Russian Impacts on internal Security European Commission Statement 30 May 2023 Brussels The European Commission is very concerned by the adoption of a new law in Poland creating a special committee to investigate Russian influence on the internal security of Poland between 2007 and 2022. This new law raises concerns that it could be used to affect the possibility of individuals to run for public office, without fair trial. Today, Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders raised this issue with Ministers at the General Affairs Council. The European Commission is currently analysing this new law and will not hesitate to take immediate action as necessary. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China supports Serbia's efforts to safeguard sovereignty, territorial integrity Global Times Clashes between NATO and Serb protestors arouse doubts over NATO's role as 'peacekeeper' By GT staff reporters Published: May 30, 2023 08:42 PM With renewed tensions in Kosovo continuing to worry Europe, China said on Tuesday that it supports Serbia's efforts to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and urged NATO to respect relevant country's sovereignty and territorial integrity and do things that are conducive to regional peace. More than 30 NATO peacekeeping soldiers defending three town halls in northern Kosovo were injured in clashes with Serb protesters, while Serbia's president put the army on the highest level of combat alert, the Guardian reported on Tuesday. The tense situation developed after ethnic Albanian mayors took office in northern Kosovo's Serb-majority area after elections that the Serbs boycotted, according to media reports. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters on Monday that the current escalation in Kosovo and Metohija is alarming, and a major explosive situation could erupt in the heart of Europe, TASS said. Mao Ning, spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, told a press conference on Tuesday that China supports Serbia's effort to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposes unilateral actions by the temporary institutions in Pristina and calls on it to perform its duty of establishing an association/community of Serb majority municipalities. We urge NATO to respect relevant country's sovereignty and territorial integrity and truly contribute to peace in the region, Mao said. Although NATO pretends to be a peacekeeper in region, it has become involved in the local clashes in such violent way, raising concerns about a direct conflict between the NATO and Serbia, some experts warned, especially when many people remember how NATO blatantly violated the Charter of the UN by bombing the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1999. The Balkans have traditionally been regarded as the "powder keg of Europe," while Kosovo is a time bomb planted by the US-led West to fan the flames when needed to serve its own geopolitical purposes, some experts said. "NATO has granted itself the role of peacekeeper and peace builder in the area, showing that as a third party, it has to prevent relevant parties from solving conflicts with force. But now it is directly involved in the conflicts," Cui Hongjian, director of the Department of European Studies at the China Institute of International Studies, told the Global Times on Tuesday. As NATO is pro-Kosovo politically, regarding the conflict in Kosovo, NATO cannot adopt a fair and neutral stance on the situation. Future conflicts could turn into those between Serbia and NATO, Cui said. Some European lawmakers also criticized NATO's involvement in the tensions between Kosovo and Serbia. Mick Wallace, a member of the European Parliament, said in a tweet on Tuesday that "When did NATO Forces ever have anything to do with keeping the Peace? They are a War Machine that thrives on war and serves the interests of the US empire and the military industrial complex." The tensions have been escalating since local Serbs boycotted the recent elections where ethnic Albanian mayors took office in northern Kosovo's Serb-majority area, according to media reports. While local Serbs denied the legitimacy of the elections, the US and Europe recognized the elections, which further stimulated the Kosovo authorities. And in the eyes of Serbia, the US and Europe have been "double dealing," as they claimed to keep the peace in the region but clashed with local residents, Yang Bowen, assistant researcher at the Department of European Studies of the China Institute of International Studies, told the Global Times on Tuesday. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic met with the envoys from the US, UK, France, Italy, and Germany, as well as the head of the European Union delegation, and urged Western countries to urgently adopt measures to guarantee the safety of Serbs in Kosovo. During his meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Belgrade Chen Bo on Tuesday, Vucic asked China for its influence on the international community to end violence against ethnic Serbs in Kosovo, according to media reports. Serbia has been seeking a balanced diplomacy with major countries including the US, Russia and China, but since the Ukraine crisis, Western forces have been "cleaning off the influence of external forces" including that of Russia and China in the Balkan area, Cui noted. "The overall international environment for Serbia has changed, which is why Kosovo began posing challenges since last year," he said. "This is also the reason why Serbia is seeking more international support outside the West and outside Europe," Cui added. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New Delhi, May 31 (UNI) External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will be on an official visit to South Africa from June 1-3 to attend the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting, and to Namibia from June 4-6, in the first visit by an Indian External Affairs Minister to the southern African nation. In South Africa, besides participating in the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting in Cape Town, EAM will also hold a bilateral meeting with his South African counterpart Naledi Pandor. He will call on President Cyril Ramaphosa and is expected to hold bilateral meetings with other BRICS Foreign Ministers and participating Friends of BRICS Ministers from other countries. He will also have an interaction with the Indian Diaspora in Cape Town, a statement said. EAM Jaishankar will then visit Namibia in the first visit by an External Affairs Minister of India to Namibia. During the visit EAM will call on the top leadership of the country and also meet with other Ministers of the Government. EAM will also co-chair the inaugural Session of the Joint Commission Meeting with the Namibian Deputy Prime Minister/ Foreign Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. He will also interact with the Indian Diaspora based in Namibia. EAMs visit to South Africa and Namibia is expected to further strengthen Indias strong bilateral relations with these two countries, the statement added. UNI RN MFA statement on our allies' opinions and remarks regarding our national legislation Republic of Poland - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 30.05.2023 Poland appreciates our allies' opinions and remarks regarding our national legislation. Underlining strongly that this legislation remains within sovereign national competence of the Polish parliament, we are always ready to clarify and explain all potential misinterpretations and doubts about it. Russian influence on Poland's domestic security requires thorough investigation and public scrutiny. The newly adopted law on establishing a National Committee to investigate Russian influence on Poland's domestic security in the years 2007-2022 ensures such investigation to be carried out with public transparency to the fullest possible degree, providing due process in a fair procedure. To ensure impartiality, the Committee will be composed of members designated by all political groups in the parliament. The proceedings will be carried out according to the principle of objective truth, with examination of all available evidence, presented also by the interested parties. Furthermore, any party subject to a Committee's decision will have the right to appeal it to an administrative court in a two-instance procedure, and to request that it is provisionally suspended until the final verdict of the court. The Committee's work will not limit voters' ability to vote for their candidates in elections; on the contrary - it will provide the public with wider access to information about matters crucial to national security. Poland highly values the alliance with United States and remains ready to engage in further dialogue through diplomatic channels. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 4th Polish-Lithuanian Council of Defense Ministers. Poland and Lithuania strengthen defense cooperation Republic of Poland - Ministry of National Defence 30.05.2023 "During the meeting, we discussed our bilateral cooperation and joint military exercises. We are obviously interested particularly in defense and deterrence in the northeastern part of Poland and ensuring security of the Suwaki Isthmus, which connects our countries. We are interested in cooperation in other formats as well. (...) I thank greatly for this close Polish-Lithuanian partnership and for the minister's presence in Poland. Our consultations play an important role prior to the NATO summit that is to be held in Vilnius in July." - Deputy Prime Minister Mariusz Blaszczak said after the conclusion of the 4th Polish-Lithuanian Council of Defense Ministers. On May 30, Mariusz Blaszczak, Deputy Prime Minister-Minister of National Defense, and Arvydas Anusauskas, Minister of Defense of Lithuania, met in Warsaw as part of the Fourth Polish-Lithuanian Council of Defense Ministers. "One of the topics of our talks was also cooperation in the cyber domain, primarily in the context of countering attacks. (...) We talked about cooperation of special forces. We also spoke of the support that both of our countries are providing to Ukraine. We are well aware of the threats. We are unanimous when it comes to opposing Putin's attempts to rebuild the Russian empire." - noted the head of the Polish Defense Ministry. During the meeting, the ministers discussed the ongoing military cooperation between the two countries and defined its directions for development. In addition, the heads of the Ministries of Defense discussed the current regional security situation in the context of the continued war in Ukraine, and discussed preparations for the NATO Summit in Vilnius in July. "It is very symbolic that the preparations for the NATO summit in Vilnius have brought us together here in Warsaw. Both Poland and Lithuania see Russia as a long-term threat to Western security and democratic values, to the stability of the international system based on mutual trust. As Moscow and Minsk are waving weapons, including nuclear, we understand that concessions cannot be made to the Kremlin regime. We agree that we must work both in a bilateral format, as well as jointly using the capabilities of NATO and the European Union (...) We agree to intensify joint military exercises. (...) We cooperate on arms purchases. We are acquiring Grom air defense systems, at a cost of more than 20 million euros." - Lithuania's defense minister noted after the meeting. The head of the Lithuanian defense ministry stressed Poland's role in ensuring security on NATO's eastern flank and expressed appreciation for the process of strengthening the Polish Armed Forces. "A firm response begins on the front lines in Ukraine. We stand united with this struggling nation. NATO should continue to strengthen its forward defense. Long-term deterrence against Russia and the response to aggression require an increase in combat capabilities on NATO's eastern flank. The strengthening of the armed forces by Poland is a model for other Allied countries to follow. At the Vilnius summit, we aim to find practical solutions for strengthening the defense of NATO's eastern flank." - Minister Arvydas Anusauskas said. After the plenary talks, the defense ministers of Poland and Lithuania signed a joint position on the development of further military cooperation for security. Deputy Prime Minister M. Blaszczak informed that Lithuania has decided to purchase Polish Grom anti-aircraft systems. "Today we discussed, among other things, joint arms purchases. I am very pleased and thankful for the Lithuanian decision to purchase Groms, which will go to the equipment of the Lithuanian Armed Forces. This is another transaction of this kind, which speaks very well of our relations" - said minister Baszczak. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ministers of National Defence of Lithuania and Poland agreed on stronger cooperation: intensified bilateral exercises, Lithuania will conduct an additional GROM air defence system procurement Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence 2023-05-30 International cooperation "Both Poland and Lithuania view Russia as a long-term threat to the security of the West and democratic values, as well as the stability of the international system based on mutual trust," said Minister of National Defence Arvydas Anusauskas after meeting with Polish counterpart Mariusz Baszczak in Poland earlier today. Ministers discussed the security situation in the region, national aspirations of both countries, preparations for the NATO Summit in in Vilnius in July, and signed a Joint Communique on further guidelines of the two countries' defence cooperation. Ministers agreed to intensify bilateral exercises, including border-crossing, and to continue the cooperation in weaponry acquisition with a procurement of additional missiles for the GROM air defence system for the worth of over EUR 20 million. "Against the backdrop of Moscow's and Minsk's saber-rattling, including nuclear, we understand that no concession can be made to the Kremlin regime currently in power. We agree with Poland that we need to work together bilaterally as well as to make use of the NATO and EU options to find a long-term and strong response to the threats Russia poses," stated A. Anusauskas. According to him, a strong response starts on the frontlines in Ukraine, therefore both countries have to continue the assistance to Ukraine. Both Ministers agreed that NATO had to further reinforce the Forward Defence: combat capabilities on the eastern flank of NATO needed to be strengthened to ensure a longtime deterrence of Russia. Lithuania and Poland will join forces for the said result at the NATO Summit in Vilnius, one of the main goals being ensurement of a reliable air and missile defence in the Baltic states. According to A. Anusauskas, the Vilnius Summit also has to aim for a mutual commitment of NATO Allies to spend at least the minimum of 2 percent of GDP on defence. Lithuania's current defence spending amount to 2.5 percent of GDP which should be the new standard as the Alliance updates its defence investment commitments. A. Anusauskas also underscored in his turn that Poland was a role model for other Allies in terms of strengthening defence capabilities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Marines Conduct Exercise Judicious Activation 23 in Gabon US Marine Corps News 30 May 2023 | 1st Lt. William Reckley Marine Corps Forces Africa LIBREVILLE, Gabon -- U.S. Marines and Sailors from Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team, Europe, operating under Task Force 61/2, U.S. Sixth Fleet, U.S. Naval Forces Europe, and U.S. Africa Command, conducted Judicious Activation - Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team 2023, April 24-28, 2023. During Judicious Activation 2023, Marines and Sailors from CTG 61/2.3, stationed in Rota, Spain, participated in a reoccurring bilateral exercise run by USAFRICOM. This year's iteration was in partnership with the host nation of Gabon. "This exercise validates AFRICOM's capability to conduct crisis response operations, leveraging force sharing agreements with EUCOM for allocated forces," said Maj Timothy Stefan, Commanding Officer of FASTEUR. "Additionally, it provides us the opportunity to strengthen the relationship between Departments of State and Defense with host nation partners in USAFRICOM as they work together to maintain and strengthen security measures." During this exercise, CTG 61/2.3 conducted the deployment of personnel and assets in coordination with the Department of State and Gabonese Republic host nation and coalition forces, testing their theater support cooperation capabilities as a rapidly deployable force capable of responding to crisis in the AFRICOM region. Judicious Activation 23 validates the ability for the deployment of FASTEUR in support of U.S. personnel and investments in the region while strengthening partnerships through host nation exchange of knowledge. 1stLt Jason Mounombo, Gabonese Republican Guard, says "this exchange was a very important part for the Gabonese law enforcement and I would like to very much do it again." "Through this exercise, we are demonstrating a key FAST mission set; activating on short notice, moving organic personnel and gear as well as enablers, and capable of reinforcing a U.S. embassy within our Area of Operations, to include EUCOM and AFRICOM regions," said Capt. Connor McMahon, FASTEUR Platoon Commander. "This is also an excellent opportunity to conduct cross training with Marine Security Guards at USEMB Libreville, and an exchange of information with our Gabonese partner forces." TF 61/2 aligns deployed forces under the Naval Amphibious Force commander; deployed amphibious ready groups, Marine Expeditionary Units, Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team, Europe, and multi-domain sensing forces. TF 61/2 is deployed in NAVEUR's area of responsibility, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to support U.S., allied, and partner interests. For more than 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability. Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO Secretary General meets with Norwegian Prime Minister in Oslo NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 30 May. 2023 NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre in Oslo on Tuesday (30 May 2023), ahead of the informal meeting of Allied Foreign Ministers, which will take place on Wednesday and Thursday. The Secretary General thanked Prime Minister Gahr Stre for Norway's substantial contributions to the Alliance, and its significant aid to Ukraine. "I welcome that you have committed to a five-year assistance program - this is something that really makes a difference - with military support, as well as financial and humanitarian assistance. This is something we all very much appreciate," said Mr Stoltenberg. He further welcomed the Prime Minister's "key role in driving NATO's work on protecting our critical undersea infrastructure", and commended Norway's commitment to reach the 2 percent defence spending target by 2026. On recent violence against KFOR troops in northern Kosovo, Mr Stoltenberg said: "such attacks are unacceptable and must stop. KFOR, the NATO forces, will take all necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens in Kosovo, and will continue to act impartially, in line with our United Nations mandate." He said: "we have decided to deploy 700 more troops from the operational reserve force for the Western Balkans, and to put an additional battalion of reserve forces on higher readiness, so they can also be deployed if needed. These are prudent steps to ensure that KFOR has the forces and capabilities it needs to fulfil its mandate." The Secretary General concluded: "violence sets back Kosovo and the entire region, and puts Euro-Atlantic aspirations at risk. Both Pristina and Belgrade must take concrete steps to de-escalate the situation, refrain from further irresponsible behaviour, and engage in the EU-facilitated dialogue, which is the only way to lasting peace." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO Secretary General: what we choose to do now will determine what the world looks like in future decades NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 30 May. 2023 NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg spoke in Oslo on Tuesday (30/05/2023) at an event co-organised by the Norwegian Atlantic Committee and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway. The Secretary General said that "President Putin's war of aggression against Ukraine marks the end of the world as we knew it," stressing that "what we choose to do and choose not to do now will determine what the world will look like for decades to come." He noted that NATO Allies have provided significant and decisive military contributions, and he expects that there will be more announcements and new decisions in the run-up to and at the Vilnius Summit in July. NATO is currently working on a multi-year assistance program for Ukraine, to help them transition from the old Soviet-era to the modern NATO standards and equipment, and help Ukraine get closer to NATO. "We must not allow President Putin to continue to chip away at European security, and for this, we need a framework that ensures Ukraine's long-term security," Mr. Stoltenberg said, adding, "I cannot anticipate the outcome of the discussions, but what is clear is that all NATO allies agree that NATO's door is open; everyone agrees that Ukraine will become a member; and everyone agrees that it is Ukraine and NATO member states that decide, not Russia. But the most important thing right now is that we make sure Ukraine prevails. That is our most important task. Otherwise, there will be no future to discuss." Mr. Stoltenberg also made clear that the Vilnius Summit will further strengthen NATO's deterrence and defence. He said NATO leaders will agree on detailed plans for the defence of Allied countries. Setting out precise requirements for what capabilities individual Allies must provide and what forces are required. He stressed that, "all this is part of the transformation and strengthening of NATO that has been underway since 2014 - restructuring NATO over the past decade, to prepare NATO for the next decade." In Vilnius, he said, "we must put in place a stronger commitment to NATO's two percent target. Two percent should no longer be a ceiling we aim for, but a floor we build on, a minimum." The Secretary General spoke on the eve of the Informal Meeting of NATO Foreign Ministers in Oslo on 31 May-01 June. The event was opened by the Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Nigeria's new president Tinubu takes office People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 09:18, May 30, 2023 ABUJA, May 29 (Xinhua) -- Nigeria's new leader Bola Ahmed Tinubu was sworn in Monday as the 16th president of the most populous African nation, after taking the oath of office at a ceremony in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria. In his inaugural address, Tinubu, a former governor of the southwestern state of Lagos, outlined his vision and plans for Nigeria's progress, emphasizing the need for economic growth and the fight against terrorism and criminality, which has plagued the country in recent years. "We shall work for economic growth of a gross domestic product not less than 6 percent," Tinubu said, vowing to work tirelessly to improve the lives of Nigerians and build a prosperous nation that would serve as a beacon of hope in Africa. He also announced that fuel subsidy, which has long been a heavy burden on government revenue, has ended as the 2023 budget made no provision for such subsidy. "The fuel subsidy is gone," the new president said, adding his government will instead channel funds into infrastructure and other areas to strengthen the economy. Tinubu vowed to rid Nigeria of terrorism and criminality. "Security shall be top of our administration," he said, adding that he will reform security architecture, and invest more in security personnel, providing them with better training and better equipment. The 71-year-old veteran politician said he will also end extreme poverty, make food more abundant, ensure inclusion for women and youth and discourage corruption. The inauguration ceremony at Eagle Square, in the heart of Abuja city, was witnessed by delegations of regional and world leaders and dignitaries. Tinubu, a seasoned politician, emerged victorious in a keenly contested presidential election held in February. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Spanish PM calls early general election after local elections defeat People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 09:16, May 30, 2023 MADRID, May 29 (Xinhua) -- Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Monday called a general election for the country on July 23. Sanchez announced his decision from his official residence following the defeat of his Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) to the People's Party (PP) in the elections for 12 of Spain's regional governments and over 8,000 city halls on Sunday. Sanchez said in a brief statement: "I have communicated to the Head of State (King Felipe VI) the decision to call a Council of Ministers this afternoon to dissolve Parliament and proceed to call a general election." The prime minister explained that he had taken his decision "in the face of yesterday's (Sunday's) results," adding he believed it was the "best for the Spanish people to be able to give their decision and define the political future of this country without delay." In the regional and municipal votes on Sunday, PP had won 31.5 percent of the vote, whereas PSOE gained 28.11 percent. Meanwhile, the Vox party saw its votes almost doubled compared to the 2019 local elections. PP has also won the city halls in Valencia, Zaragoza and in Seville which has long been considered a socialist stronghold. On Sunday night, the PP leader, Alberto Nunez Feijoo, celebrated his party's victory in the regional and municipal elections, calling it "the start of a new political era." Previously, Sanchez had suggested he would complete his four-year term, which would have meant the general elections were due to be held in December. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sudan army, rival force agree to 5-day extension of cease-fire People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 09:12, May 30, 2023 RIYADH, May 29 (Xinhua) -- The Sudanese Army and the Rapid Support Forces on Monday agreed to a five-day extension of a cease-fire agreement they signed on May 20 after negotiations in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah, Al Arabiya News reported. The two sides stressed commitment to allowing safe passage of all civilians from conflict areas and protecting civilian supplies. The Agreement on a Short-Term Cease-fire and Humanitarian Arrangements was reached through negotiations that started on May 6 under a Saudi-U.S. initiative with the aim of ending the conflict in Sudan and facilitating the access of humanitarian aid to civilians. The seven-day truce, which entered into force on May 22, was scheduled to expire at 9:45 p.m. local time (1945 GMT) on Monday. Violent clashes broke out in Sudan's capital Khartoum between the Sudanese Army and the RSF on Monday, just a few hours before the cease-fire deal between the two sides would expire. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia to West: Stop 'deceitful propaganda' about 'desperate' Serbs in Kosovo Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 5:13 PM Russia has asked the West to stop "deceitful propaganda" about "desperate" Serbs in Kosovo as NATO has deployed troops in the Balkan country. Moscow on Tuesday stressed that the US-led military alliance has become a source of unwarranted violence and escalation of tensions in the turbulent region after violent clashes erupted between Serb protesters and NATO forces, leaving dozens of people injured. The ethnic Serbs of Kosovo boycotted elections in northern Kosovo's Serb majority area in April. This enabled Albanians to win positions and take control of the local councils, even though the voter turnout was as low as 3.5 percent. The United States and its allies on Friday rebuked Pristina for the developments that prompted Serbs to boycott the elections and the region descended into unrest, in which more than 50 Serb protesters and 30 NATO so-called peacekeepers were injured on Monday. "We call on the West to finally halt its deceitful propaganda and stop blaming the incidents in Kosovo on desperate Serbs, who are trying to defend their legitimate rights and freedom peacefully and without weapons," Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement on Tuesday. "The crisis situation in the municipalities of Zvecan, Zubin Potok, and Leposavic, which could have been resolved through a calm compromise, was a tough nut to crack for the NATO 'peacekeepers' in Kosovo," she said. "They not only showed their unprofessionalism, but also became a source of unnecessary violence and a factor of escalation," she added. Meanwhile, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic accused Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti of creating tensions, urging Serbs in Kosovo to avoid clashes with NATO soldiers, 25 of whom were reportedly injured in clashes with protesters on Tuesday. "I am urging the Serbs in Kosovo - and I know how they feel and how difficult it is for them - not to get into a conflict with NATO. Not because I am afraid or because any of us are afraid, none of us personally have anything to lose, but because that's what Kurti wants most," Vucic told reporters after further clashes in the region. Serbia, which previously ruled Kosovo until it became independent in 2008, has placed its army on high alert and ordered forces toward the border, a step it has taken repeatedly in recent years. "The number one task is still the establishment of a community of Serbian municipalities in the region in its original form, which was enshrined 10 years ago in written agreements between Belgrade and Pristina under the guarantee of Brussels. This is a key condition for dialog, and is the only chance to ensure stability and security in the region," Zakharova said on Tuesday. The US has been Kosovo's main supporter politically, militarily and financially ever since it gained its independence from Serbia, which has long had close ties with Moscow. The ethnic-minority Serbs, which make up 1.5 percent of the population, do not recognize the 2008 declaration of independence from Serbia, and instead recognize Belgrade as their capital. Kosovo is mainly populated by ethnic Albanians. Despite months of shuttle diplomacy by EU mediators, in March, Kosovo and Serbia stopped short of signing a potential landmark deal to normalize their relations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New Delhi, May 31 (UNI) India and Bahrain held the Sixth Round of Foreign Office Consultations in Bahrain, during which the two sides reviewed the bilateral cooperation in the spheres of political, security, space, trade, renewable energy, fintech among other things. The FOC were co-chaired by Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Secretary (CPV & OIA) on the Indian side, and Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary (Political Affairs) of the Bahrain Foreign Ministry. The Indian Embassy in Bahrain said in tweets: 6th round of India-Bahrain Foreign Office Consultations were held in Bahrain, co-chaired by H.E. Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Secretary (CPV & OIA) @MEAIndia, and H.E. Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Undersecretary (Political Affairs) @bahdiplomatic. The meeting reviewed our growing multifaceted bilateral cooperation in diverse areas including Political, Security, Space, Youth, Parliament, Media & Information, Trade, Renewable Energy, Fintech.. Education, Health, Tourism, Labour & Consular issues, people-to-people engagement, and discussed matters of mutual interest regional and multilateral arena. Later Dr Ausaf Sayeed paid a visit to the Bahrain Fort and museum, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Dr. Ausaf Sayeed @SecretaryCPVOIA paid a visit to the iconic #BahrainFort and its museum. The fort, a #UNESCO World Heritage Site exhibits numerous artifacts that features civilisational history of Bahrain of Dilmun era, including its relation with Indus Valley Civilisation. UNI RN Armenia, Azerbaijan trade hostile rhetoric over Karabakh ahead of peace talks Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 8:12 AM Armenia and Azerbaijan have traded fresh accusations over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region just ahead of new peace talks aimed at reaching a long-lasting resolution to the decades-old conflict. Armenia accused Azerbaijan on Monday of threatening to resort to force after Azeri President Ilham Aliyev demanded the dissolution of Karabakh's "separatist" local government. Armenian Foreign Ministry further accused Aliyev of making "genocidal threats" and "preparing the ground for another aggressive action against the population of Nagorno-Karabakh," according to an official statement cited by the country's official Armenpress news agency. The statement came after Aliyev called on Armenians on Sunday to abandon their "illusions" of Karabakh's independence, while boasting military successes scored by Azerbaijan in the 2020 war to recapture the region after Armenia took it over in 1994. "That means abiding by the laws of Azerbaijan, becoming normal, loyal citizens, tossing false state symbols onto the rubbish heap and dissolving the so-called parliament," Aliyev further emphasized in remarks made in the town of Lachin. The verbal blows came as peace talks between the two sides had appeared to be making progress in recent weeks, with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan expressing his country's readiness to recognize Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan. Karabakh has always been internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan though it is mostly populated by ethnic Armenians who have resisted Azerbaijan's sovereignty over the territory since a separatist movement waged a war against Azerbaijan in 1994 and captured it. Azerbaijan eventually recaptured in 2020 the territory captured by the Armenian separatists shortly after the Soviet rule collapsed in the early 1990s. Since the six-week 2020 war, which left more than 6,500 people killed on both sides and eventually concluded by a Russian-brokered truce, Pashinyan and Aliyev have held several talks brokered by Moscow and the European Union. The two men met last week in Moscow, where Russian President Vladimir Putin declared the two sides were making progress towards clinching a long-term peace deal. The Armenian and Azeri leaders are due to meet again at an EU development meeting in Moldova on Wednesday, when leaders from more than 40 states as well as European institutions are also expected to take part. Top on the agenda is the Karabakh dispute, along with the demarcation of the two nations' border, the return of prisoners and the establishment of trade "corridors" running through each other's territory. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN envoy calls for 'serious steps' to bring peace to war-torn Yemen Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 7:12 AM The UN special envoy for Yemen has urged both parties of the war to take "serious steps" toward lasting peace amid intensified mediation efforts to resolve the eight-year conflict. During a visit to Japan on Monday, Hans Grundberg stressed the need to maintain and intensify international advocacy for a sustainable political settlement that ushers in a future of durable peace and development in Yemen. "This is a critical time. The parties have a responsibility to build on the progress achieved and take serious steps toward lasting peace," he said. "The coherence of the international community and its unity of objective on Yemen will be pivotal assets in this regard." In parallel with UN efforts led by Grundberg, Oman has also been trying to close gaps between Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement and Saudi Arabia. The peace efforts are aimed at extending a UN-brokered ceasefire, which is still largely in place despite its official expiry last October. In April, Omani and Saudi delegations held peace talks with Ansarullah officials in Sana'a. 'US to disrupt peace process' Also on Monday, the al-Masirah television network reported that Washington has stepped up its "interferences" in Yemen, citing meetings between the US Ambassador to Yemen Stephen Fagin and members of the so-called presidential leadership council, Faraj al-Bahsani and Sultan Ali Al-Arada. During both meetings, the report said, Fagin advised the council not to pay the salaries of state employees out of oil revenues. "Despite being announced that meetings come to 'discuss peace efforts and a political settlement in Yemen,' they have completely different goals," the report added. "They come within the framework of the counter-move taken by the Americans to undermine the Omani mediation efforts and thwart the efforts to end the aggression against Yemen." Last week, Ansarullah chief Abdul-Malik al-Houthi accused the United States of "obstructing real peace" and "fair entitlements for our dear people." Saudi Arabia started a brutal war of aggression against Yemen in March 2015, enlisting the assistance of some of its allies, including the United Arab Emirates. The war, which has enjoyed generous arms, logistical, and political support from the United States and several other Western governments, has been seeking to restore power in Yemen to the country's former Riyadh- and Washington-friendly government. The former Yemeni government's president Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi resigned from the presidency in late 2014 and later fled to Riyadh amid a political conflict with Ansarullah. The movement has been running Yemen's affairs in the absence of a functioning administration. The war has, meanwhile, killed tens of thousands of Yemenis and turned entire Yemen into the scene of the world's worst humanitarian crisis. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese and US jets tangle over South China Sea A Chinese fighter jet performed 'an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver' near an American jet, the U.S. said. Alex Willemyns for RFA 2023.05.30 -- A Chinese J-16 fighter jet last week carried out "an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver" near an American reconnaissance plane that was flying above the South China Sea, the U.S. military said on Tuesday. The incident, which occurred Friday, follows a near collision of Chinese and American jets late last year over the same contested waters. A video released by the U.S. military shows the Chinese fighter jet approaching the American plane at a high altitude before turning sharply, veering away suddenly and disappearing in the distance. The cockpit of the American plane appears to shudder as the Chinese jet passes. The pilot of the Chinese jet "flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the U.S. aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence," the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement, vowing to continue flying above the waters Beijing claims as sovereign territory. "The United States will continue to fly, sail, and operate - safely and responsibly - wherever international law allows, and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Joint Force will continue to fly in international airspace with due regard for the safety of all vessels and aircraft under international law," it said. "We expect all countries in the Indo-Pacific region to use international airspace safely and in accordance with international law." Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, attributed the incident to "close-in reconnaissance on China" conducted by U.S. forces, which he said "poses a serious danger to China's national security." "The US's provocative and dangerous moves are the root cause of maritime security issues," Liu told Radio Free Asia in an email. "China urges the US to stop such dangerous provocations, and stop deflecting blame on China." Beijing claims sovereignty over most of the South China Sea despite a 2016 ruling in a case brought by the Philippines at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague that rejected China's expansive claims. Six other Asian governments have territorial claims or maritime boundaries in the South China Sea that overlap with the sweeping claims of China. They are Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. While Indonesia does not regard itself as party to the South China Sea dispute, Beijing claims historic rights to parts of that sea overlapping Indonesia's exclusive economic zone. The United States is officially neutral in the dispute but rejects China's vast claim and has called for sovereignty claims to be resolved peacefully. U.S. forces also frequently carry out "freedom of navigation" operations through international waters in the sea, which includes shipping lanes in the South China Sea through which more than $5 trillion of goods pass each year. Updated to include comments from the Chinese Embassy. 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Outlawed church group makes comeback in Vietnam Police say it has 16 locations and about 500 followers in a northern province. By RFA Vietnamese 2023.05.30 -- A church outlawed in Vietnam has reappeared in the country's northern Thanh Hoa province after many years with no presence or activities in the area, Vietnamese police said Tuesday. The World Mission Society of Church of God, also known as Church of God the Mother, has made a comeback with 16 service locations, mostly in Thanh Hoa city, and around 500 followers, according information on the provincial police's website. The group's members range in age from 18 to 50 years old, and most are students and housewives, authorities said. They often promote their religion by approaching people at coffee shops, parks and business workshops, especially events about multilevel marketing models. Freedom of religion is technically enshrined in Vietnam's constitution, but the charter also allows authorities to override rights, including religious freedom, for purposes of national security, social order, social morality and community well-being. The Church of God was established in 1964 by Ahn Sahng-hong, a South Korean minister, whose followers believe to be the second coming of Jesus Christ. It has more than 3.3 million registered members in 175 countries, according to its website. The group's teachings depart significantly from mainstream Christian theology, and it has been publicly criticized by former members and researchers for behaving like a cult by exercising control over its members. RFA reported in March that police in the central Vietnamese province of Quang Nam ordered church members to stop following the religion. Vietnam's Law on Belief and Religion requires religious groups to register their organizations and places of worship. Only organizations that have operated for at least five years can apply for registration. Once registered, the organizations are granted status as legal entities. Many groups refuse to register out of fear of persecution or concern for their independence, however. The United States in December 2022 placed Vietnam on a watch list of countries to be monitored for severe violations of freedom of religion as the government continued to crack down on Christian churches and demolish Buddhist pagodas. Translated by Anna Vu for RFA Vietnamese. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster. 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Why the Philippines is deploying navigation buoys in the South China Sea The Philippines is asserting its maritime rights more boldly in the face of Chinese action. By Camille Elemia for BenarNews 2023.05.30 -- Earlier this month, the Philippine Coast Guard deployed five 30-foot navigational buoys near islands and reefs within its territory in the South China Sea, saying the move highlighted the nation's "unwavering resolve to protect its maritime borders." Within two weeks, China had deployed three navigational buoys of its own, positioning two near Manila's beacons at Irving Reef and Whitsun Reef, to ensure "safety of navigation." The tit-for-tat deployments signaled a new front in a long-running dispute over sovereignty of the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, one of the world's most important sea trade routes that is considered a flashpoint for conflict in the Asia-Pacific. But the buoys also underscored an increasingly proactive approach by the Philippines in enforcing its maritime rights, analysts say. "Such a move illustrates Manila's awareness of the changing nature of regional geopolitics," said Don McLain Gill, a Manila-based geopolitical analyst and lecturer at De La Salle University. "The Philippines also recognizes that no other external entity can effectively endorse its legitimate interests other than itself." China claims nearly all of the South China Sea and has for years militarized artificial islands, while deploying coast guard boats and a state-backed armed fishing fleet around disputed areas. In 2016, an international tribunal ruled in favor of Manila and against Beijing's expansive historical claims to the region, but China has since refused to acknowledge the ruling. The Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Vietnam and Taiwan all have claims in the sea and Manila's buoy deployment prompted an official protest from Hanoi. Since taking office in June last year, Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has been more vocal in condemning China's aggressive actions in the region and has restored traditional military ties with the United States. Raymond Powell, the South China Sea lead at Stanford University's Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation, said the recent deployment of buoys showed the Philippines' newfound determination to "proactively assert its maritime interests." 'A war of buoys' While Marcos Jr. was praised by some for the deployment, others have criticized the move as needlessly provocative. Filipino security analyst Rommel Banlaoi said the unilateral action heightened security tensions and could have "unintended negative consequences." "What the Philippines did was problematic because the international community recognizes the South China Sea as disputed waters," said Banlaoi, who chairs the advisory board of the China Studies Center at New Era University's School of International Relations. "This might trigger a war of buoys," he said in an interview last week with local radio station DZBB. The Philippines National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano said the deployment of buoys was meant to enforce the 2016 arbitral ruling in the Hague. "This is not a provocation. What we call provocations are those who conduct dangerous maneuvering, laser pointing, blocking our vessels, harassing our fishermen," he told reporters in an interview, referring to recent Chinese actions in the South China Sea. Jay Batongbacal, director of the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea, said the installation of the buoys demonstrated the Philippines was exercising jurisdiction over its waters for purposes of improving navigational safety. "Such buoys are harmless devices that warn all other ships of potential hazards and should in no way be regarded as provocative or threatening," Batongbacal told BenarNews. He asked why critics were silent about China building artificial islands, installing anti-air and anti-ship missiles, and deploying missile boats and large coast guard vessels that actively interfere with Philippine boats in its maritime territory. Angering Vietnam Not only did the buoy deployment set off another round of recriminations between Beijing and Manila, it also triggered a rebuke from Vietnam, which claims parts of the Spratly Islands as its own. When asked about Manila's action, Vietnamese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang said Hanoi "strongly opposes all acts violating Vietnam's sovereign rights." Analysts say, however, the spat is unlikely to escalate, as Vietnam has far bigger issues to deal with in terms of China's incursions into its territorial waters. A Chinese survey ship, escorted by China Coast Guard and maritime militia, was found lingering within Vietnam's exclusive economic zone for several days from May 7, often within fifty nautical miles of its southern coast. Powell said the incursions were "much more provocative than the Philippines' buoys." "I think Vietnam's pro-forma protest over the latter will be noted and largely forgotten, both in Hanoi and in Manila," Powell told BenarNews. Vietnam's reaction to the Philippines' move was natural "due to its potential political ramifications at the domestic level," said Gill. But he added that Southeast Asian nations had a track record of settling maritime disputes in an amicable manner. In 2014, for example, the Philippines and Indonesia settled a maritime border dispute after two decades of negotiations by using international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. "Unlike China, Southeast Asian countries have illustrated a rather positive track record of being able to compromise and solve bilateral tensions between and among each other given the countries' collective desire to maintain stability in the region," Gill said. BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news service. 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NATO To Send More Troops To Kosovo As U.S. Says Pristina Suspended From Military Exercises By RFE/RL's Balkan Service May 30, 2023 PRISTINA -- NATO has decided to deploy 700 more troops to Kosovo to help stop violent protests in the north of the country and the United States canceled Kosovo's participation in ongoing NATO exercises after clashes broke out between ethnic Albanian authorities and local ethnic Serbs. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said on May 30 that in addition to sending 700 more troops, another battalion had been put on standby. Stoltenberg warned that NATO troops "will take all necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens in Kosovo" after the clashes occurred on May 29. About 30 members of its forces were injured, KFOR said in a statement. Speaking in Oslo after talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, Stoltenberg condemned the violence, saying that "such attacks are unacceptable and must stop." He did not say when the additional troops would be deployed but urged both sides to "take concrete steps to de-escalate the situation, refrain from further irresponsible behaviour, and engage in the EU-facilitated dialogue, which is the only way to lasting peace." The current peacekeeping force in Kosovo, a former province of Serbia, on May 30 sealed off the municipality building in the town of Zvecan, where the violence occurred. U.S. Ambassador to Kosovo Jeffrey Hovenier said the decision of Kosovar authorities to forcibly install Albanian mayors in Zvecan and two other Kosovar Serb-majority towns, Leposaviq and Zubin Potok, had had a negative impact on Kosovo's reputation and reversed efforts to normalize relations between Kosovo and Serbia. He quoted U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who warned that the actions would affect U.S.-Kosovo relations, and that the cancellation of Kosovo's participation in the military exercise was the first consequence. "Today there was no activity for Defender Europe '23.... For Kosovo, those exercises are over," Hovenier said. The NATO allies' largest military exercises in the Balkan region are being hosted by Kosovo. They began on May 21 and were set to last until June 2. "We have asked [Kosovar Prime Minister Albin] Kurti to take steps toward reducing tensions in the north. He has not responded to these requests and we are analyzing what our other actions will be," Hovenier said. Kurti has defended his government's decision to send mayors to municipal buildings, calling it constitutional. Hovenier said the United States had two demands for the Kosovo government: not to insist that mayors work from municipal buildings and to withdraw police officers from the municipal buildings in the three towns. Mayors of the towns were sworn in despite a turnout of under 3.5 percent in the April 23 by-elections amid a Serbian boycott. Ethnic Serbs earlier on May 30 gathered in front of town halls in Kosovo's north following the violence as EU officials scrambled to bring leaders of Serbia and Kosovo together. On May 30, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell urged Kosovar authorities and ethnic Serb protesters to "immediately de-escalate" tensions in Kosovo's north, while sources told RFE/RL that the special representative of the European Union for dialogue, Miroslav Lajcak, was trying to organize a meeting between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kurti. The sources cautioned that it appeared unlikely either side was ready to meet or hold talks. Vucic asked the leader of the Quint group -- an informal decision-making group comprising Germany, Britain, France, the United States, and Italy that focuses on major international issues -- to urge Pristina to guarantee the safety of Serbs in Kosovo. While diplomatic efforts buzzed behind the scenes, Kosovo police said that the situation in Zvecan, Leposaviq, and Zubin Potok was calm as protests continued, although cars belonging to journalists from various media outlets were targeted by several attacks on May 30, the Association of Journalists of Kosovo reported. Among the vehicles attacked was a car in which an RFE/RL news crew was traveling in Zubin Potok. There were no injuries in the attack, which involved an explosive device and occurred while the vehicle was moving. Crowds of several hundred people gathered earlier outside municipal headquarters in Zvecan, Leposavic, and Zubin Potok, with alarm sirens sounding and pepper spray and bottles flying, as local and international pressure mounted for Kosovar officials to de-escalate the situation. KFOR soldiers, wearing full riot gear, have put a metal barrier around the municipal building in Zvecan, and are attempting to maintain cordons to keep the two sides apart in the three municipalities and to prevent the crowds from overrunning the buildings where so-called "parallel" administrations backed by neighboring Serbia operate. Charles Kupchan, a member of the American Council on Foreign Affairs and professor at Georgetown University, told RFE/RL on May 30 that the government of Kosovo should withdraw from efforts to appoint Albanian mayors in municipalities with a Serbian majority in the north as such moves "are useless and counterproductive in the long run." "We need to see the government of Serbia and the government of Kosovo sit down together and try to work out the details of the agreement [on the normalization of relations]. Self-governance for the Serbian community seems to be one of the main obstacles. I think what is happening in the north now is a distraction from this important step of the agreement," he said. With reporting by AFP, dpa, and AP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kosovo-violence-serbs- kfor-borrell/32434719.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kosovo 'Tactical Game' Is A Strategic Blunder, Security Expert Charles Kupchan Warns Amid Balkan Violence By Valona Tela May 30, 2023 Charles Kupchan is a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) and is a former director and adviser on the National Security Council in two White House administrations. He is also a professor of international affairs at Georgetown University and the author of the books Isolationism: A History Of America's Efforts To Shield Itself From The World and Nationalism And Nationalities In The New Europe. Hours after Serbs opposed to the Kosovar government's efforts to install ethnic Albanian mayors clashed with NATO KFOR peacekeepers in northern Kosovo, Kupchan spoke to RFE/RL's Balkan Service about the latest crisis, outside pressures on Pristina and Belgrade, and the prospects for normalization between Serbia and its former province. RFE/RL: Violent scenes were seen again in the north of Kosovo, especially in Zvecan. KFOR intervened after the local population refused to withdraw from the protest. There are injured NATO soldiers and locals. This happened after the Kosovo authorities took over the municipal buildings in the north. What is your take on this? Charles Kupchan: It is a very worrisome development, because violence has again returned to Kosovo and in particular to the relationship between the Serbs in the north of the country and ethnic Albanians. And we are at a moment at which normalization between Serbia and Kosovo has as good a chance of moving forward as we've seen in a long time. We have U.S. and EU efforts, the EU framework that is under discussion. And these kinds of bouts of violence are unhelpful. In some ways the government in Pristina is playing a tactical game that may be politically useful but is strategically unwise in the sense that taking provocative actions like trying to seat ethnic Albanian mayors in the north after an election boycotted by the Serb population, pushing forward on license plates -- these are issues that stir the pot and raise tensions at a time when we need calm on both sides to see Belgrade and Pristina make progress on the broader agreement. So, this is an unfortunate development. RFE/RL: Kosovo's prime minister, Albin Kurti, ignored the calls of the international community not to use force to enter the buildings, and he sent the police to assist the mayors in entering the buildings. Kupchan: Again, all parties should avoid actions that stir the pot, that create opportunities for violence, that stoke passions on both sides, that cause, in the case of Belgrade, talk of putting its forces on high alert. Even if you could say that the government in Pristina is justified because it held an election, these are the kinds of activities that in the long run are unhelpful and counterproductive. RFE/RL: What would you suggest the government of Kosovo do now? Kupchan: The solution is to stand down, to back away from this effort to install the mayors, and to take a deep breath. Because, as I said, there is an opportunity here to make progress on the bigger issues: the agreement [on resolving tensions between Serbia and Kosovo] that has been laid out by the European Union has potential, has momentum. Rather than seeing KFOR having to confront angry Serbs in the north of the country, what we ought to be seeing are the Serbian and the Kosovar governments sitting down and trying to work out the details of the agreement [reached verbally in February] and, in particular, the format for self-management of the Serb community since this seems to be one of the main sticking points. What's happening now in the north is a distraction from an important next step in the agreement. RFE/RL: The two countries seem to be going in different directions, as far as normalization is concerned. Why is that? Kupchan: The domestic politics of this issue are extremely difficult on both sides. That's why, as a consequence, one day it looks like Vucic and Kurti are headed in the right direction, and then the next day Vucic says, "No, there's no hope here," and then Kurti does something that is provocative. So right now, we're simply in a place where you have -- in theory, in principle -- the outlines of an agreement, but the political situation on both sides is headed in the wrong direction. RFE/RL: Let's return to north Kosovo. The Serbs there refuse to accept Kosovo police on the ground. Is this negotiable? Kupchan: The situation in the north needs to be part of a broader settlement, a broader conversation. In the meantime, I would encourage the government in Pristina to avoid steps like those that it has been taking over the last few days...that provoke the Serb population living above the River Ibar to protest and to end up in a confrontational situation with KFOR, which, as we are hearing, has led to violence and injuries on both sides. RFE/RL: On the other hand, Serbia increased its military [alert level] and said it is deploying troops near Kosovo. Where do you see this heading? Kupchan: It's unlikely that you would see Serbian forces enter Kosovo, in part because they would confront NATO forces, and that puts Serbia and NATO in a very awkward position at a time when, right now, we're looking at efforts to advance Serbia's integration into transatlantic and European institutions. [Serbia's troop alert] amounts to escalatory steps in a broader tableau of coercive bargaining, but I do not expect an actual military conflict resulting from the Serbian military entering into northern Kosovo. RFE/RL: U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Kurti that this situation might affect relations between the United States and Kosovo. What do you think? Kupchan: The U.S. and the EU have both been forthright in recent months in making clear to both parties that their long-term relationship with the West -- with the United States, with the European Union -- [depends] on their good-faith efforts to move toward normalization as outlined in the agreement [from February] that has been put together by the European Union and been discussed on numerous occasions between Kurti and Vucic. It will take arm-twisting and pressure from the United States and from the EU, and as a consequence I support Secretary Blinken's statement that this kind of behavior could entail costs in the relationship between Kosovo and the United States. RFE/RL: We saw the reaction from Russia's foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov. How much is this situation benefiting Russia? (Lavrov warned on May 29 that "a big explosion is looming in the heart of Europe, where NATO in 1999 carried out an act of aggression against Yugoslavia.") Kupchan: Any disruptive behavior in the region benefits Russia -- whether it is a statement from [Bosnian Serb leader Milorad] Dodik or the difficult political situation in Montenegro, or confrontations between KFOR and Serbs in northern Kosovo, the Russians try to capitalize on disruption and division, and political disagreements. Every time that some kind of rift emerges, the Russians try to use it as a wedge, both to increase their influence in the region and to try to interrupt the integration of the Balkan region into European and Atlantic institutions. Russia's invasion of Ukraine is sending a message to the countries of the region that Russia is not, in the long run, a reliable partner and that on balance its aggression against Ukraine will convince Serbia, for example, that it should look more clearly and move more readily toward integration into Europe. But we're not there yet; we're still in a situation in which Russia has footholds in the region and takes advantage of regional disagreements to try to increase its leverage. RFE/RL: Finally, this part of Kosovo has been problematic for years now. How do you see a way out for northern Kosovo? Kupchan: It is one of the most difficult issues in a very complicated set of regional problems, and that's because you have a region where there is a majority of ethnic Serbs inside a country that they feel they don't belong to. And they direct more allegiance and feel stronger loyalty to Serbia than they do to Kosovo. The solution to this is to come up with a package deal, a broad agreement between Pristina and Belgrade that gives the Serb minority in Kosovo the reassurance that they need to stay put and to feel like they belong. Clearly, how that is to be worked out, we don't know yet. It's one of the most difficult parts of the conversation taking place between Kosovo and Serbia. But it seems to me to be resolvable only as part of a broader package deal that ultimately leads Kosovo and Serbia to normalize their relationship. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kosovo-strategic-blunder- serb-balkan-violence-kupchan-/32435552.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Japarov Says Former Kyrgyz Leader Bakiev To Be Arrested If He Returns By RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service May 30, 2023 Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov says the government has no plans to invite former President Kurmanbek Bakiev to the country, but if he does try to come back he will be arrested given there is an outstanding criminal case against him. Speaking in an interview with the state news agency Kabar on May 30, Japarov said a court sentence handed to Bakiev was still in effect and there was currently no legal basis to annul it. "There is a decision by the court. He was sentenced to 30 years. That decision is still in force today. If he comes, of course, he will be arrested. We all must learn to live under the law," Japarov said. Bakiev, 73, fled Kyrgyzstan for Belarus with members of his family following anti-government protests in 2010. A Bishkek court sentenced him in absentia to life in prison after convicting him of involvement in the killing of almost 100 protesters during the uprising. In Kyrgyzstan, many people see their former leaders as stained by corruption and, in some cases, with blood on their hands. Japarov has moved recently to try and reconcile differences over the former leaders, including holding an unprecedented summit in February that saw all five of the country's previous presidents since Kyrgyzstan regained independence 31 years ago meet with the current head of state in a bid to foster forgiveness and unity. The summit has raised speculation that Japarov is looking to allow former leaders the freedom to return without facing legal consequences. But inside the Central Asian nation, Bakiev, Kyrgyzstan's second president, remains arguably the biggest pariah. Japarov said in the interview with Karab that he feels the sentence should be annulled, but that's not a decision he can make at the moment. "I want to cancel the court's decisions. But I have no right either. I only have the right to grant or refuse clemency if Kurmanbek Bakiyev asks for mercy.," Japarov said. "I have to make a decision whether to grant it or not, taking into account the opinion of the people who suffered in 2010," he added. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kyrgyzstan-bakiev-return- japarov-arrest/32435054.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Decisive Steps Needed to Ease Tensions in Kosovo, Not West's 'Half-Measures' - Moscow Sputnik News 20230530 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Decisive steps are necessary to deescalate tensions between Serbs and Kosovars, and not "half-measures" proposed by Western countries, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Tuesday. "Decisive steps are needed to deescalate, and not half-measures like the idea of the Americans to temporarily 'resettle' the new 'mayors' from municipal buildings to other facilities," Zakharova said in a statement, published by the Russian Foreign Ministry. The spokeswoman also called on the West "to stop blaming" Serbs for violent incidents in Kosovo and influence authorities in Pristina. "And not to provoke Belgrade, which was forced to declare full combat readiness of the armed forces and push it to the administrative line with Kosovo, at the risk of again being accused of 'escalating tension," Zakharova said. The spokesman added that the NATO Kosovo Force (KFOR) showed unprofessionalism when dealing with the situation. "They not only showed their unprofessionalism, but also became a source of unnecessary violence, an escalation factor," Zakharova said. On Saturday, Serbia's National Security Council condemned NATO Kosovo Force (KFOR) for standing by while Kosovar police used force to install new Albanian mayors in Serb-majority northern provinces. Later in the day, Serbian Defense Minister Milos Vucevic said the Serbian army was deploying its units near Kosovo in anticipation of provocations. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU Foreign Policy Chief Borrell Condemns Violence in Kosovo Sputnik News 20230530 BRUSSELS (Sputnik) - EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell condemned violence in Kosovo and called for dialogue. "The EU condemns today's shocking violence in #Zvecan in the strongest possible terms. The violent acts committed against @NATO_KFOR troops, media, civilians and police are absolutely unacceptable," Borrell wrote on Twitter. He said the sides should be responsible and seek a political solution through dialogue. "The EU urges Kosovo authorities and the protesters to immediately and unconditionally de-escalate the situation. We expect the Parties to act responsibly and find a political solution through the Dialogue immediately," Borrell said. On Saturday, Serbia's National Security Council condemned NATO Kosovo Force (KFOR) for standing by while Kosovar police used force to install new Albanian mayors in Serb-majority northern provinces. Later in the day, Serbian Defense Minister Milos Vucevic said the Serbian army was deploying its units near Kosovo in anticipation of provocations. On Monday, hundreds of Kosovo Serbs came to local administration buildings demanding the withdrawal of Kosovar police and officials. The KFOR mission's troops, equipped with crowd dispersal devices, were deployed in the municipalities of Zvecan, Leposaviq and Zubin Potok. At least 52 Serbs have been injured during the clashes in Kosovo, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said. Media reported that at least 41 soldiers of the KFOR contingent also received injuries in clashes, with the mission itself confirming 25 injuries. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NIRF Rankings: IIT Madras secures top position in overall & Engineering categories 05 Jun 2023 | 2:35 PM New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras is the best educational institute under the overall category this year followed by IISc Bangalore and IIT-Delhi as per the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranking, released by the Ministry of Education on Monday. see more.. Kharge writes to PM; says all 'empty' safety claims of Railway Min exposed 05 Jun 2023 | 2:34 PM New Delhi, June 5 (UNI) Expressing concern over the safety of passengers, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday said all the "empty" safety claims of the Railway Minister have now been exposed, in the wake of train accident in Odisha's Balasore district. see more.. BJP, RSS 'incapable' of looking at future: Rahul Gandhi 05 Jun 2023 | 12:20 PM New York, June 5 (UNI) Stepping up his attack on the BJP and RSS, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said they are "incapable" of looking at the future and they only talk about the past. see more.. Congress demands Railway Minister's resignation 04 Jun 2023 | 7:17 PM New Delhi, June 4 (UNI) The Congress on Sunday launched a scathing attack at the centre's BJP-led government over the train accident in Odisha's Balasore district, accusing it of "negligence and incompetence", and also demanded resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. see more.. Condemning Violence Against KFOR and Escalatory Actions in Northern Kosovo US Department of State Press Statement Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State May 30, 2023 We call on all parties to take immediate actions to de-escalate tensions. The United States condemns the unacceptable violence yesterday against NATO-led KFOR troops, law enforcement, and journalists. The Government of Kosovo's decision to force access to municipal buildings sharply and unnecessarily escalated tensions. Prime Minister Kurti and his government should ensure that elected mayors carry out their transitional duties from alternate locations outside municipal buildings, and withdraw police forces from the vicinity. President Vucic and the Government of Serbia should lower the security status of Serbian Armed Forces and urge Kosovo Serbs to halt challenges to KFOR and refrain from further violence. Both Kosovo and Serbia should immediately recommit to engaging in the EU-facilitated Dialogue to normalize relations. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Continued Peace Talks Between Armenia and Azerbaijan US Department of State Press Statement Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson May 30, 2023 We are pleased to see that talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan have continued. As Secretary Blinken said, peace is achievable in the South Caucasus. We recently expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Pashinyan's commitment to peace, and we welcome President Aliyev's recent remarks on consideration of amnesty. Armenia and Azerbaijan's leaders will meet later this week in Chisinau with our European partners, and we hope that will be a productive step to resolving these issues at the negotiating table and not through violence. Aggressive rhetoric can only perpetuate the violence of the past; constructive dialogueboth public and privatecan create peace, opportunity, and hope. The United States stands ready to support the efforts of both parties to conclude a durable and dignified peace agreement. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson at a Joint Press Availability US Department of State Remarks Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Lulea Military Airbase Lulea, Sweden May 30, 2023 PRIME MINISTER KRISTERSSON: Okay. Most welcome to this press conference, and most welcome to Lulea, Secretary Blinken. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. PRIME MINISTER KRISTERSSON: Lulea is the place. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. PRIME MINISTER KRISTERSSON: Right now, we are, as we all know, at F 21, an air force wing in northern Sweden, and while we are here, the Arctic Challenge Exercise, the ACE, is taking place at F 21 as well. Both Swedish-made Gripen fighters and American-made F-16s can be seen operating in the air during the ACE. The north of Sweden is geographically very important for the Swedish armed forces as it provides strategic depth for us and for our neighboring countries. The Russian border is actually a six-and-a-half-hour drive from here. Filling the territorial gap in the north will be one of Sweden's many security contributions to NATO when we join the Alliance. On that note, let me express my deep appreciation for the United States support for Sweden's NATO accession. That means a lot to us. We have applied for NATO membership because we realize we need to defend freedom and democracy together, but also because we want to bring our own capabilities to common use. As a member, Sweden will be a security provider to the entire Alliance. During our meeting, the Secretary and I have, of course, discussed the most acute security threat to our part of the world, Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. For Sweden and for the Swedish EU presidency, supporting Ukraine is a top priority. I'm very grateful for and impressed by the strong U.S. commitment and the U.S. leadership of this big operation. It really proves the importance of transatlantic cooperation. We also discussed the challenges and opportunities from new technology, issues that also will be discussed between the EU and the U.S. in the Trade and Technology Council taking place in Lulea today and tomorrow. Green transition, innovation, and the tech industry, including 6G, are areas where two nations like Sweden and the U.S. have very many common interests, and common concerns as well, and we should and we could work even closer together. In northern Sweden, we show in practice how innovation and growth and green transition can go hand-in-hand. Here Sweden has unique natural resources, rare earth metals, and by tradition, cheap, reliable, and fossil-free electricity, not least thanks to hydro power. In January this year, it was announced that Europe's largest deposit for rare earth metals is in Kiruna, just some 350 kilometers from here. That's pretty close, if you ask the locals. And it shows that Sweden has a bright future as a mining nation - increasingly important, again, for the green transition. I'm happy to conclude that the relations between Sweden and the United States are very strong, with plenty of potential for deepening cooperation both as bilateral partners and as future NATO Allies. Over to you, Secretary Blinken. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. Well, Prime Minister, thank you so much. Thank you for the very, very good meeting that we had. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality here. I am grateful to be here to be with you and also our colleagues from the European Union as we engage in the fourth round of the Trade and Technology Council meetings that will start, actually, tonight with dinner, but then in full force tomorrow. But we're in Sweden, and then on to Norway and to Finland, at a critical time for our countries and our people - a time of historic strategic convergence between the United States and partners across Europe. And I think - without speaking for you, Prime Minister, I think we both have that shared assessment of this convergence on the most important issues of our time. The United States and Sweden are working more closely together than ever on a wide variety of shared interests: Ukraine, Sweden's NATO accession, our bilateral security partnership, and indeed, here in Lulea, as you heard, Sweden just hosted the Arctic Challenge Exercise 23, joined by the United States and NATO; the climate crisis, where Sweden is a leading partner in the First Movers Coalition, something we saw firsthand today; and our efforts to ensure that the Arctic remains a region free from conflict, where nations act responsibly and in accordance with international law, and economic development and investment take place in a sustainable, secure, and transparent manner. Tomorrow, as noted, we are going to build on the progress that we've made as the Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, the U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, and I join our European Union counterparts for the fourth meeting of the U.S.-EU TTC, the Trade and Technology Council. It is very fitting that we meet here in Lulea. This city is a model for so much of the work that we've been doing and we've been focused on through the TTC, from eliminating emissions in carbon-intensive industries to reducing our dependencies on unreliable or autocratic countries for the minerals that are used for products essential to our prosperity and security. Over the past two years, the TTC has enabled the United States and the European Union, which together make up nearly 40 percent of the world's GDP, to align and shape a collective, affirmative economic and technological future that advances the values that we share, that bolsters our competitiveness, and that delivers tangible results for the people that we represent on both sides of the Atlantic. At tomorrow's meeting, we'll focus on how to ensure that new and emerging technologies - as you heard from the prime minister - like AI, like quantum, like 6G enhance our competitive edge, benefit our citizens, and uphold democratic principles. We'll continue to work on our supply chains and on accelerating the green transition, a great example of which we saw earlier today. We'll also discuss our joint efforts to address economic coercion and non-market economic policies and practices. The work that we've done over the past two years, including on export controls, has been critical to our efforts to ensure that Russia's invasion of Ukraine remains a strategic failure. Tomorrow, we'll announce new actions that build on the export controls on the technology that's found in Iranian drones used to target Ukrainian civilians and civilian infrastructure, to counter Russian misinformation and disinformation, to protect human rights defenders online. Then Foreign Minister Billstrom and I will both travel to Oslo for the NATO Foreign Ministers meeting. As we prepare for the Leaders' Summit in Vilnius, we're continuing to make sure that our Alliance is stronger, more united, and better positioned to navigate a changing environment - from Putin's aggression in Europe, to the PRC challenge, to risks in space and cyberspace. Sweden again and again has proven its commitment to NATO - to its values, to its mission, to its members. A strong, vibrant democracy with highly capable forces that have been working shoulder-to-shoulder with NATO members for years, for decades, it is fully dedicated to upholding the commitments that underpin our Alliance, including Article 5. By joining NATO, Sweden undertakes a commitment to the security of every other Ally. No one should doubt that commitment, and, of course, every other Ally will be committed to Sweden's security. We will continue to work to complete Sweden's accession by the time our leaders gather in Vilnius for the NATO Summit. Just days after President Putin invaded Ukraine, Sweden moved swiftly to provide assistance - the first time it's delivered lethal assistance since it came to Finland's aid in the Winter War going back to 1939. Sweden has provided approximately $2 billion in military, humanitarian, and economic support to Ukraine. It's welcomed nearly 50,000 refugees from Ukraine, providing pathways not only to have access to public services but also to work, to study, which they want to do so they can contribute to their communities here and, ultimately, to their communities back home in Ukraine. And in its role as EU - president of the Council of the EU, Sweden has overseen the EU's 10th sanctions package, launched on the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion. It's also overseen a landmark agreement to jointly procure ammunition for Ukraine and has set up a process to investigate how frozen Russian assets can be used to rebuild the country. So, Mr. Prime Minister, on so many fronts, as we were discussing, in challenging times, the most important thing is to have close allies, close partners, close friends. The United States could not ask for a closer partner and friend and, soon, closer Ally than Sweden. Thank you. PRIME MINISTER KRISTERSSON: Thank you so much. Thank you. MODERATOR: Thank you, and we'll open up for a few questions. We'll start with the Swedish television, Johan Pisoni. QUESTION: Yes. Mr. Secretary Blinken, what do you make of the fact that there are still two countries blocking the Swedish NATO application? And is the U.S. willing to add more pressure to these countries in order to speed up the process? SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. So the accession process is just that. It's a process. And in fact, if you look at this in historic terms, it's removed - it's moved remarkably rapidly with Finland's accession and, very soon, Sweden's accession. Through that process, individual members of the Alliance can bring up issues of concern to them, and, of course, Turkiye has done that over the last months. And I think it has rightly focused attention on some of its security concerns that both Sweden and Finland have taken remarkable steps to address, important ones. So I think it's to Turkiye's credit that it's been able to focus all of the Alliance on some of these concerns, but it's to Sweden's credit as well as Finland's credit that they've taken concrete action to address those concerns. From the perspective of the United States, the time is now to finalize Sweden's accession. Again, it's taken very significant steps to address very legitimate concerns, and I think in terms of its own qualifications for membership, from day one it was qualified precisely because it's been such a long-time partner for NATO; of course, the European Union; and with values that are fundamentally the same. So we look forward to this process being completed in the weeks ahead. We have no doubt that it can be, and it should be, and we expect it to be. MODERATOR: Okay, next question goes to Missy Ryan. QUESTION: Thank you. Okay, hi. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Missy. QUESTION: I'd also like to ask about the Sweden NATO accession issue. First, for you, Mr. Prime Minister, have you or any of your advisers been in touch with the Turkish Government since - with Erdogan or his team since the - his re-election? And do you have any indications that Turkiye is now ready to approve Sweden's accession to NATO, or are they asking you to take additional steps? And I know your government has spoken extensively about the benefits that NATO accession will bring to both Sweden and NATO, but what do you think it says about NATO and its ability to provide a strong deterrent that one or two members of NATO have the ability to hold up the enlargement for over a year? And then for you, Mr. Secretary, President Biden yesterday suggested that there could be some sort of arrangement linking Turkish approval of the Swedish accession bid to the provision of F16s to Turkiye. Do you have any indications that Turkiye will now relent on Sweden's NATO accession now that the election is over, and do you have any indications that key lawmakers in the United States will now support supplying Turkiye with F-16s. And then also on the Turkish election, forgive me, given the track record of Erdogan's government regarding rule of law, democracy, and inclusivity, are you concerned that conditions around those things might deteriorate further in Turkiye following the election since arguably he might see that as a valid - see the results of the election as a validation of his approach? Thanks. PRIME MINISTER KRISTERSSON: Well, first, of course, obviously, we have had several contacts also after the election runoff last Sunday, so we have - we are in constant contact with our Turkish counterpart on this specific issue, of course. So - and just to reiterate what I've said before, I mean, we have always known that - two things. One is we have a memorandum, we are fulfilling it, and the very final part of that is actually being put into force June 1st - that is the day after tomorrow - when the new piece of legislation, actually, in counterterrorism - and that is an important step. And thereby, we have done what we told the - our Turkish friends and within the framework of the trilateral memorandum - very, very important. And we acknowledged the fact that they have good reasons to have had concerns on how other countries helped them to protect themselves. But on the other side, or at the same time, we have always recognized the fact that every NATO Ally has to make its own decision, and only Turkiye can make Turkiye's decisions, and we fully respect that. So that's basically it. And now we wait for them to make their decision. SECRETARY BLINKEN: And Missy, to your question, first let me just say it is appropriate that every Ally have a clear say in the admission of new members or the accession of new members, because it comes down to Article 5. Each member is making a solemn commitment to every other member that it will join in coming to their defense if they are the victims of aggression. And so it's important that every member have its say in this process. And as I said earlier, by historic terms, this has moved remarkably rapidly, and we believe it needs to come to a conclusion now. With regard to Sweden's accession and the F-16s, these are distinct issues. Both, though, are vital, in our judgment, to European security. I've already been clear about why it's profoundly in the interest of the Alliance and the United States to have Sweden as a formal Ally in NATO. And as I said, we expect that process to be completed in the weeks ahead. But we know that our Alliance will be stronger and we will be better off when that process is finalized. And so we urge both Turkiye and Hungary, which has also not yet ratified, to ratify the accession as quickly as possible. There is no reason for any further time; Sweden is ready now. That decision should be - should move forward now. With regard to the F-16s, our administration has been very clear: We believe it's important that Turkiye have the F-16s or the F-16 upgrades, as a critical member of the NATO Alliance, to make sure that they are operating at the highest standards of the Alliance, that they're fully interoperable with every other Ally. This, too, is in the interest of the United States, and it's why we brought this forward for consideration. It's equally true that there are members of Congress who feel strongly, and while we are not linking the two issues - when I say we, I mean the Biden administration - some members of Congress are. They are linking Sweden's accession to NATO to the moving forward on the F16s. Congress is a fully equal and independent branch of government. Their voice and their vote in any such decisions, of course, is critical. But from our perspective, we believe that both should go forward and should go forward as quickly as possible, that is to say, Sweden's accession and moving forward on the F-16 package. More broadly, as always, we're focused on the actions of any given government, of any given partner, not on hypotheticals about what they may or may not do in the future. We will remain focused on their actions. MODERATOR: Okay. Next question goes to TT News Agency. QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, first of all, welcome to Sweden. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. QUESTION: Just a follow-up on the NATO question. The NATO meeting in Vilnius is only six weeks away. What would you say the odds are, the chances are that you will see Sweden as a member of NATO before the meeting takes place? And sort of a follow-up on that, if the process will be further delayed, would that - what might - what might the consequences be for Sweden as well as for NATO? SECRETARY BLINKEN: Do you have a bet on this or are you thinking of putting something - (laughter) QUESTION: (Off-mike.) SECRETARY BLINKEN: I don't have any inside information that I could or would share. (Laughter.) Look, as I said, we believe the time is now, and there is no reason for not moving forward and - as I said before. And as the prime minister has expressed very eloquently, Turkiye has raised important and legitimate concerns. Sweden and Finland both addressed those concerns, and so the time to move forward is now. We'd like to see that happen before the Vilnius Summit. But again, I can't put and won't put odds on it. What I can say is this: We and our Allies are both committed to and well-positioned to help Sweden address its security needs irrespective of whether accession happens tomorrow or in two weeks or in a few weeks after that. We've been clear that we will not tolerate any aggression against Sweden no matter its actual status. Secretary of Defense Austin was here recently, and I think he very clearly reaffirmed that point. We have a deep existing partnership that is literally being exercised, as the prime minister said, right now through Arctic Challenge 23. And I think that's further evidence of the fact that we are working extremely closely together and as partners and, soon, formal Allies. We're ready for any contingency. MODERATOR: Great. We'll do a final question from The Wall Street Journal. Kim. QUESTION: Thanks. Kim Mackrael from The Wall Street Journal. For Secretary Blinken, can you speak to how close you think the U.S. and European approaches to China are right now? What do you hope to see from Europe in addressing concerns about non-market practices and export controls? And also, how big do you think the gap is between what the EU talks about in terms of de-risking and what is often referred to with the U.S. about decoupling with China? And sorry, if I can also put a question to the prime minster? MODERATOR: It's just one question. QUESTION: Just - for the prime minister - it's on the same topic. It seems there's significant debate from member-states over how to redefine Europe's relationship with China. So what's your view on the commission's proposal for outbound investment screening, and how likely do you think it is that member-states will see some agreement on moving forward with that? SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you very much. So I think - and the prime minister and I had an opportunity to discuss this at some length - for both the United States and Europe, and indeed for countries in all parts of the world, the relationship with China is among the most consequential, is one of the most - as well as one of the most complex that we have. And we've been very clear about what we're for and also what we're not for, and we are not looking for a new cold war. We are not looking to contain China. We are looking to make sure that we are upholding our interests and our values in that relationship and that we're managing it responsibly. I think there's a demand signal from countries around the world that both China and the United States manage the relationship responsibly, that we take every reasonable step to make sure that the competition that we're in does not veer into conflict. And one of the reasons that President Biden and President Xi agreed when they met in Bali last year to strengthen our lines of communication was precisely to that end, as well as seeing if, when it's in our mutual interest and in the interest of others, there are areas where we can actually strengthen cooperation. In my 30 years or so of doing this, I have not seen a time, actually, when there is greater convergence between the United States and Europe, as well as with key partners in Asia, on the approach to China. I think you see that reflected in what key leaders in Europe are saying, including just today, the prime minister discussing this issue - but I'll let him speak for himself - the work that we're doing with the EU through the Trade and Technology Council - the recent speech by President von der Leyen, which I think could very much have been an expression of our own policy. And when you look at it, I think what you've seen over the last couple of years is that increasing convergence. Both the United States and Europe, I think, believe that, again, this relationship is an important one, one that we seek to sustain, but with our eyes wide open. And so both the United States and Europe are not in favor of decoupling, but we are in favor of de-risking. And you've heard that from the leadership on both sides of the Atlantic. But not only have you heard that, you've actually seen that in practice through the Trade and Technology Council, as well as other work that we're doing with the European Union. You're seeing country after country put in place investment screening mechanisms, not for the purpose of stopping Chinese investment, but for making sure that in discrete areas, industries, companies, geographic areas where that investment could pose a challenge or - to our security, we have the appropriate mechanisms in place. We're now talking about, as well in very discrete ways, looking at outward investment to make sure that it's not going to support developments in China that could pose a threat to our security. We're working more closely together than ever on building supply chain diversification and resilience, with the EU putting in place early warning systems to disruptions in the supply chain, as well as diversifying them. Again, we're coming together to do that. You see it as well in the collaboration that we've had on export controls, not for the purpose of cutting off trade with or supplies to China of technology, but, again, in very discrete areas, where that technology may go to, for example, help China develop what is an opaque nuclear weapons program or other things that could pose a threat to our security or challenges to our values like surveillance technology. Well, we're taking appropriate measures there. And when it comes to nonmarket economic practices, there, too, the United States and Europe are increasingly aligned. And that's important because individually, if we're trying to get China to change some of the unfair practices that it's engaged in, the United States is about 20 percent of the world's economy; Europe's about 20 percent of the world's economy. When we combine and address these issues together, all of a sudden we're almost 50 percent of the world's economy, and that's a little bit harder for China to ignore when it comes to trying to change some of the practices they're engaged in. So I think we're seeing that it's profoundly in the mutual interest of both Europe and the United States to be aligned in our approach, as it is for key countries in Asia. We just came from a G7 meeting where Japan and Korea were both present. I think you've seen a similar alignment, a similar convergence, in the approach that we're taking to China there as well. And again, I refer you to the words of key leaders in Europe, as well as some of the key documents and strategies that Europe has put out. They are almost entirely coincident with our own approach. PRIME MINISTER KRISTERSSON: Well, basically I very much agree with Secretary Blinken's kind of basic approach and - to this matter, very much so. And as you might know, the very final European Council meeting during the Swedish presidency will be, of course, as always, about Ukraine - always - but also on the key issue of relation to China. So that's our kind of final part we are preparing. It happens to be - I just came to here from the Stockholm China Forum, the German Marshall Fund's annual meeting on China, and I gave - I tried to outline how we see the principal approach to - perhaps just two remarks. One is Europe needs to unite and stick to the unity on how to have a common approach to China. It is simply the fact that 27 countries need to stick together to have the clout and to have the power and (inaudible). And second, transatlantic cooperation is key in this area as well, I would say. And that has sometimes been questioned, as you know. And I would say that those now saying that - or asking themselves, does Europe need to choose, as it goes, between the U.S. and China, they simply ask themselves the wrong question. We should instead unite in a principally anchored idea on how an open world should act, how we reduce dependency, how we de-risk, regardless if China want to be de-risked or not, and try to be as open as possible, taking our own security concerns into account. I think the U.S. has been a few years ahead of Europe, but I think very many countries now realize this is not the time for naivete. It's not the time to stop communicating and cooperating with China either. Decoupling is not the answer, but to have a serious common approach to this matter I think would be. So my short answer: Yeah, I think there is a beginning convergence going on, which I would appreciate very, very much. And if Sweden can be helpful in that process, I would be very proud of that. MODERATOR: Great. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. MODERATOR: Thank you so much for everyone for coming. PRIME MINISTER KRISTERSSON: Thank you so much. Thank you so much. Thank you. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Deputy Secretary Verma's Meeting with IORA Secretary General Al Farisi US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson May 30, 2023 The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Richard Verma met today in Mauritius with the Secretary General of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), H.E. Salman Al Farisi. Deputy Secretary Verma thanked Secretary General Al Farisi for ongoing engagement between the United States and IORA and underscored the importance of IORA's role as a valued partner in the Indian Ocean Region. The Deputy Secretary reaffirmed the United States' commitment to expanding collaboration with IORA on key priorities including the climate crisis; support for a sustainable blue economy; global health; and maritime security as we address key global challenges together. Deputy Secretary Verma also shared plans, working with Congress, to provide $6 million for maritime security cooperation with IORA member states Bangladesh, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and India to boost interdiction and law enforcement capacity in the South Asian sub-region of the Indian Ocean. Deputy Secretary Verma and Secretary General Al Farisi also discussed, and agreed to further explore, the possibility of providing U.S. technical support to the organization. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Department of Public Information . News and Media Division . New York 30 May 2023 The following is a near-verbatim transcript of today's noon briefing by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General. ** Noon Briefing Guests We are delighted to be joined by Achim Steiner, who is the Administrator of the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and as you heard David Gressly, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Yemen. Achim will be here in the room and David is, as you heard, in the Ndeavor vessel; and they are here to update you and hopefully give you some good news on the Safer tanker. [Briefing by guests followed.] ** Security Council All right, good afternoon. Just a quick note that this afternoon, as you all well know, the Security Council will be holding a meeting on threats to international peace and security. Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), will be the briefer. Following the meeting, he and the Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, Ignazio Cassis, will be speaking to you at the stakeout, followed by Mr. Grossi, so that will be whenever the meeting ends, so just keep your eyes on the TV. This morning, Council members unanimously voted in favour of the renewal of the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) for one year until 31 May 2024. Also, they adopted resolution 2683 that renews sanctions on South Sudan until 31 May 2024 and also renews the Panel of Experts of the 2206 South Sudan Sanctions Committee until July 2024, and that was done by 10 votes in favour and 5 abstentions. ** Syria They also heard from our friend Geir Pedersen, the Special Envoy for Syria, who told Security Council members that this past month has seen diplomatic activity quicken. At the same time, he underlined the importance for the Syrians to engage in dialogue and return to discussing their own future together in the Constitutional Committee. For her part, Ghada Eltahir Mudawi, the Deputy Director of Operations at the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, briefed Council members and said that a staggering 15.3 million people that's nearly 70 per cent of the population of Syria require humanitarian assistance throughout the country. She called for greater solidarity and urgently increased humanitarian funding to save lives and prevent further suffering. ** Yemen Just a quick update on Yemen that has not been mentioned that the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) has allocated $18 million to address food security in the country to help reduce high levels of food insecurity and rising malnutrition rates driven by the conflict, economic shocks and climate change, among other factors. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is telling us that more than 17 million men, women and children that's around 80 per cent of the population are facing high levels of food insecurity across the country. Recent UN analysis shows rising malnutrition rates, with children under the age of 5 being particularly impacted. The $4.3 billion appeal for Yemen [in 2023] is currently just over 24 per cent funded. This allocation from the Central Emergency Response Fund will allow humanitarian agencies and partners to support people in the governorates of Hajjah, Al Hodeidah and Ta'iz which are among the most vulnerable and affected by both food insecurity and malnutrition. ** Permanent Forum of People of African Descent Back here, the Second Permanent Forum of People of African Descent began this morning and will run until 2 June. The theme of the Forum is: "Realizing the Dream: A UN Declaration on the promotion, protection and full respect of the human rights of people of African descent". In a pre-recorded video message, the Secretary-General said that the establishment of this Forum by the General Assembly crystalized the commitment of the international community to accelerate along the path towards full equality and justice for people of African descent everywhere. In a separate video message, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, commended the Forum for its commitment to broad-based discussions of human rights issues that impact people of African descent. Those remarks were shared with you. ** Portugal Meanwhile, our Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, participated in a conference held in Portugal, by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). In her remarks in Lisbon yesterday, she called for equality and the removal of barriers to science and technology. She said that by harnessing the power of industrial property, we can unlock the potential of ground-breaking technologies, advance inclusive growth and achieve greater equality. She also met with the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joao Gomes Cravinho, as well as other government representatives and the leadership of WIPO. To conclude her trip, Ms. Mohammed visited the Oceanarium and the Blue Ocean Foundation, to discuss the oceans agenda and links to climate action. She's on her way back here. ** Sudan Moving to Sudan, as of yesterday, at least 100 trucks loaded with humanitarian assistance had reached their destinations in several states and including the capital, Khartoum. They were carrying 2,600 tons of supplies, including nutrition, water, sanitation and health items for up to 2 million men, women and children. The World Food Programme (WFP) has reached some 675,000 people across Sudan since restarting operations and on Saturday, WFP began distributing food in Khartoum. So long as the security situation allows, the agency plans to reach at least half a million people who need food in the capital, Khartoum. Meanwhile, the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) is warning that more than 13.6 million children in Sudan are in urgent need of humanitarian aid, after six weeks of conflict. And the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Martin Griffiths, has welcomed the extension of the ceasefire in Sudan, as the humanitarian community there continues to scale up deliveries, as we are showing you. For his part, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, concluded a three-day visit to Egypt with an urgent call for support for people fleeing Sudan, and support for the countries hosting refugees. He called for the borders to remain open. Just to flag that more than 170,000 people have entered Egypt since the start of the conflict, half of the more than 345,000 people who have reportedly left Sudan since the start of the hostilities. ** Mali Quick note on Mali: The Arab Republic of Egypt and the United Nations have jointly agreed to the gradual phasing out of the Combat Convoy Battalion from the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Mali MINUSMA and that's effective in June 2023 and has been done in light of the reconfiguration of the MINUSMA Force to address the evolving security situation in Mali. We express our gratitude to the Republic of Egypt for its continued contribution to MINUSMA and for Egypt's commitment and the sacrifices made by the Egyptian peacekeepers serving in Mali. ** Hunger Hotspots The World Food Programme and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) yesterday released a report warning that acute food insecurity is set to potentially increase in magnitude and severity in 18 hunger "hotspots" comprising a total of 22 countries. The report notes that the risk of a spillover of the Sudan crisis raising the risk of negative impacts in the neighbouring countries shows that deepening economic shocks continue to drive low- and middle-income nations deeper into crisis. It also warns that a likely El Nino climatic phenomenon is raising fears of climate extremes in vulnerable countries around the globe. WFP and FAO are calling for urgent humanitarian action to save lives and livelihoods to prevent starvation and death in hotspots where acute hunger is at a high risk of worsening from June to November of this year. The full report is online. ** Democratic Republic of Congo And just an illustration of one of these hotspots, which is the Democratic Republic of the Congo: According to the latest food security analysis released by the Government, nearly 26 million [people], that's about one out of four people, continue to face crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity, including 6.7 million people who are experiencing crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity in North and South Kivu, as well as Ituri, all in the east. FAO and WFP are stepping up their action to support the most vulnerable, but they warn that record hunger levels in the country will also require livelihood support and long-term investments by the international community. ** Palestine Also, we routinely tell you the risks of what happens if humanitarian agencies such as WFP don't get the funding they require. I want to highlight what is going on in Palestine. WFP says they're facing a critical situation in Palestine, with the suspension of assistance to over 200,000 people set to take effect in June if funding is not secured urgently. In light of the recent escalation in Gaza, which has further worsened the struggles faced by vulnerable families, it is imperative that people in need continue to receive vital assistance provided by WFP. This assistance serves as a crucial safety net, even more so now. Without the necessary financial support, WFP will be forced to suspend its operations entirely by August. That means that 350,000 of the most vulnerable and food-insecure Palestinians will be deprived of assistance that allows them to feed their families. ** Kosovo To flag the situation in Kosovo, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), Caroline Ziadeh, said that she is alarmed by the violence in northern Kosovo, and the preceding actions over the past few days that led to that violence. She strongly condemned the actions that resulted in serious injuries of the KFOR (Kosovo Force) military personnel, as well as civilians, in Zvecan/Zvecan municipality yesterday. Ms. Ziadeh stressed that violence in any form, including against KFOR who are deployed to provide a safe and secure environment in relation to resolution 1244 (1999), is unacceptable. She expressed solidarity with KFOR and wished all the injured, including civilians, a speedy recovery, stressing that the loss of life must be prevented at all costs. She has urged de-escalation and called for responsible leadership and actions to defuse tensions and moves toward sustainable political solutions as soon as possible. She said that the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo will continue to coordinate closely with international presence on the ground. That press release was shared with you. ** Uganda And also, just to flag that a number of UN agencies, including the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and UNAIDS (Joint United Nations Programme against HIV/AIDS), have said they are appalled that the draconian and discriminatory anti-gay bill is now passed into law in Uganda. The High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, had recently expressed concern about the further worsening of laws criminalizing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, including in Uganda. He said these laws violate human rights, and they lead to violence, and they drive people against one another. ** Plastics I also want to flag the start of the second session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution. The session is taking place at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Headquarters in Paris and will go on until Friday. The work of the Committee is facilitated by our colleagues at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). ** Earlier Statements Also, just for the record, you saw we issued a statement over the weekend in which the Secretary-General strongly condemned the recent attack against the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), staffed by Ugandan peacekeepers, in Buulo Mareer in Lower Shabelle province in Somalia. The Secretary-General conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the people and Government of Uganda. Also, over the weekend, the Secretary-General congratulated President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his re-election as President of Turkiye and said he looks forward to furtherstrengthening the cooperation between Turkiye and the United Nations. ** Questions and Answers Spokesman : That's what happens when we miss a weekday. I'm open to questions, should anyone have any. Pam? Question : Steph, the Secretary-General met with the DG of the IAEA, as you said, Grossi or maybe you didn't say. And I understand the meeting is private, and so you're not reading out. But is there a position that the Secretary-General has on what the US just said after meeting with Grossi that any security agreement on the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant would have to include a mention of and a respect for Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity? Does the SG have a position on that? Spokesman : Well, let me parse that out. First of all, the IAEA is in the lead on this as a UN agency, and so we will let them talk about what they've proposing, what they were able to achieve, what they're achieving. As a matter of principle, we have always, the Secretary-General has been very consistent in calling for the territorial integrity of Ukraine as outlined in various General Assembly resolutions. Question : But just to be clear, this is just about this... This may become an IAEA resolution, may become a Security Council resolution. Does the Secretary-General have a position on Zaporizhzhia, which is now Russian occupied? Spokesman : Our position on Zaporizhzhia is that it needs to be kept as safe as possible. Correspondent : Thank you. Spokesman : Yeah. Go ahead. Question : Over the past 24 hours, Ukraine has been subjected to massive shelling by Russian, several times with several people killed and wounded. Do you have any reaction to that, Russian attacks on Ukraine? Spokesman : We have since the beginning and continue to condemn any attack on civilians and civilian infrastructure, and that continues to be our position. Morad, and then we'll... Question : Thank you. On Sudan, Sudan Government confirmed that UN envoy won't be allowed to go back to the country. Do you think he will be able to implement his mandate in light of this position? Spokesman : Listen, what I can tell you is that the Secretary-General fully backs on Volker Perthes, his Special Representative, fully backs the work of the mission. We've seen the statements. I don't have a crystal ball. I can't tell you what will happen. But Mr. Perthes also serves with a mandate of the Security Council. And it's important that those mandates be respected. Question : Do you know where is the envoy now? Is he still in New York? Spokesman : I think he may be in Germany for a day or so to see his family, but I don't know exactly what his exact location, but I'm sure he will be heading back to the region very soon. Okay. Go ahead. Question : Hi, Stephane, I'm Vladimir Kostrev from TASS News Agency. If you let me ask two questions: First one, about today's UAVs attack on Moscow. And the second one, just a minute, today, Deputy Renovation Minister of Ukraine, Yuriy Vaskov, said that Ukraine seeks guarantees from UN and Russia that if Ukraine lets transit of ammonia, the grain part of the grain deal will continue to function. Can the UN give such guarantees? Spokesman : On your second part, there are discussions constantly going on around the Black Sea Initiative, which includes obviously the flow of grain; it also includes the ammonia pipeline. We continue to work very intensely with all the parties to ensure that every part of the agreement is implemented and operationalized. But I'm not going to enter into a public sphere of discussions or negotiating between the parties, as you could understand. On your first question, I would say that, of course, we condemn any attack on civilians and civilian infrastructure anywhere those may occur. But I think it's also important to point [out] that there is no comparison between the recent attacks in Moscow and the massive strikes that we are continuing seeing on Ukrainian cities. Dulcie? Question : Thanks. Where is Volker Perthes planning to be based when he gets back to the region? Spokesman : I'm not going to get into that detail at this point. As soon as we have clarity, I will be able to share that with you. Question : So, he's not going back to Port Sudan? Spokesman : No. It's not what I said. I said as soon as... Correspondent : Well, I'm asking you. Spokesman : No. No. What I'm saying is as soon as I have clarity, we will share that with you. Question : And one other question, how many Egyptian peacekeepers are being withdrawn from MINUSMA? Spokesman : That's a very valid question. That's a very valid question. And I will try to get you an answer on that. But let me try giving you an exact numbers. They're being phased out, though, not withdrawn. Yes, go ahead. Yes, please. Sorry. Question : Thank you very much. What's the reaction of the Secretary-General to the inauguration of the Nigerian President? Spokesman : Well, we congratulate him on being inaugurated. Nigeria is an important partner of the United Nations, has an important role to play in the promotion of sustainable development, in the promotion of peace and security in the region and beyond. And we look forward to deepening the ties between Nigeria and the United Nations. Toshi, and then I'll come back up. Question : Thank you, Stephane. On the DPRK's (Democratic People's Republic of Korea) announcement of its plan to launch a military satellite, are you aware which UN agencies have been informed of that plan? Spokesman : I am not. Question : Okay. And if they did launch a satellite, would you consider it as a violation of UN Security Council resolutions? Spokesman : It may very well be, but I think let's wait to see what happens and then we will have a stronger comment. Dulcie, my colleagues work very quickly, and I can tell you that the number [of Egyptian peacekeepers in MINUSMA] is 651. Question : Okay. But you're saying they're being phased out. What's the time frame? Spokesman : It's during the month of June. Question : So, they're all leaving in the month of June? Spokesman : They're being phased out during the month of June. Question : So, what's the difference between phased out and withdrawn? Spokesman : Well, they're being phased out. It's part of a change of the structure of the mission. Madame? Question : Does the Secretary-General have any reaction to over the... recently, sorry, I don't know the exact time, the President of Uganda signed a tough anti-LGBTQ law that includes the death penalty for aggravated homosexuality. Any reaction to that? Will that impact UN work in any way in relation to the country? Spokesman : We're very concerned about the promulgation of the anti-homosexuality act in Uganda. The Secretary-General has been very clear and continues to call on all Member States to uphold the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in particular the adherence to the fundamental rights of and principles of non-discrimination and respect for personal privacy. He again calls on all countries to decriminalize consensual same-sex relationships and transgender people everywhere. To put it clearly, no one should be penalized, jailed, criminalized for whom they love. But we do expect a more formal statement shortly. Pam, I will come back to you. Stefano, and then Ephrem. Question : Thank you, Stephane. About Kosovo again: The certain country like United States since Friday, they've been saying that the situation has been kind of provoked by Kosovo. So, I repeat, United States saying them that. Does the Secretary-General has anything to say to the Government of Kosovo about what's happening? Spokesman : I'm not going to get into the analysis at this point. I can tell you that our Special Representative, Caroline Ziadeh, continues to be in touch with all stakeholders and do whatever she can to defuse and de-escalate the situation. Question : And a quick follow-up: Kosovo is not a member of United Nation, but does the Secretary-General have direct contact with the Government of Kosovo, like himself? Spokesman : Well, there's been no calls recently. The interaction we have is based on the existing Security Council resolutions. Ephrem? Question : Thank you, Steph. At the Security Council this morning, those who abstained from voting on the renewal of the sanctions regime for South Sudan have described the resolution as counterproductive, not in sync with the recent progress seen in that country and with catastrophic humanitarian consequences. Does the Secretary-General have any stance on the sanctions regime and its renewal at this point? Spokesman : The renewal and non-renewal of the sanctions regime is within the wheelhouse of the Security Council. Pamela, and then we'll go online. Question : Thank you, Steph. Just a follow-up on Kristen's question. Does the UN plan or is there a possibility of the UN cutting off any of the programmes in Uganda because of the law? Spokesman : Well, first of all, our country team there continues to be in a dialogue with the Government and to see how this will impact. It'll be up to different UN agencies to decide on the path forward. I think UNAIDS has expressed its concern about the impact it would have on its fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS. But obviously, each agency will take the decisions they need to take within their mandate to see how their activities can or cannot continue. Question : And no [inaudible]? Spokesman : Well, no, I guess, each agency, I think, will make its own decisions, but our line is clear. We'll take one question online, then we'll close this. We'll go to Mushfique, please. Question : Thank you, Stephane. I think you are aware that United States announced visa restriction policy to support free, fair and inclusive elections in Bangladesh. Still, the regime is very attacking on civil society leaders and political leaders ahead of election. Today, the Anti-Corruption Commission filed a case against Nobel Laureate, Professor Muhammad Yunus, who engaged with the UN in various capacity. Also, the court framed charges against main opposition leader, Tarique Rahman, and his wife, convicted and sentenced another two BNP (Bangladesh National Party) leaders and their families. So, how could you hope that there will be an election as free and fair? Spokesman : Well, Mushfique, our position, you had asked me the question on the elections. We expressed our position I think in very clear terms. It was widely reported on. I'm not aware of the issue regarding Professor Yunus, but I will look into that. And on the visa, it's not for me to comment on US visa policies. Thank you all. We will give you a heads up before Mr. Grossi and the Foreign Minister of Switzerland come to the stakeout. In the meantime, hasta la vista. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UNICEF Geneva Palais Briefing note on the impact of flooding in Somalia on children and families and UNICEF's response UNICEF This is a summary of what was said by UNICEF Somalia Representative, Wafaa Saeed, to whom quoted text may be attributed - at today's press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva 30 May 2023 GENEVA/MOGADISHU, 30 May 2023 -- "In September last year, I appeared here to brief you on the devastating impact that the drought in Somalia was having on children and families. Somalia had gone through five consecutive seasons of failed rains and was facing a sixth season. "A declaration of famine, which was predicted last year, and would have been a confirmation of our worst fears for children, has thankfully been averted. "However, and in a bitter yet perhaps unexpected irony, the arrival of the rains has brought misery for many children and families. Flooding this year has already displaced more than 400,000 people. Humanitarian partners now predict that should heavy rains continue in Somalia and in the Ethiopian highlands through the current Gu season, flash and riverine floods could affect up to 1.6 million people. "Last week, I was in a town called Beletweyne in the Hiran region where flooding has displaced almost 90 per cent of the residents. Families displaced by the floods have limited access to necessities such as food, safe water, and shelter. I met some of them currently living in temporary shelters, they told me that they are used to flooding but never to this scale or severity. Their houses and latrines were damaged, schools and health facilities were closed, they lost their daily incomes, and some are now restoring to skipping meals or seeking loans from shops. "Around 12 villages are completely isolated and can only be reached by boat. Local government and agencies including UNICEF, are already providing support, yet the level of needs is much higher. "With so much suffering dominating global headlines, the world's attention has been diverted, and this will be at the expense of children in countries such as Somalia. While we are approaching June, the Somalia Humanitarian response plan is only 26 per cent funded. The Water, Hygiene & Sanitation Cluster of the plan is about 11 per cent funded, thus threatening the provision of safe water and sanitation at a time of high risk of an outbreak of diseases such as cholera and malaria. "So, what does the situation in Somalia tell us? "First: it tells us that Somalia's story - and the challenge facing a generation of children growing up in the country - is not simply about droughts or floods, it is a climate emergency. Communities in Somalia contributed the least to climate change, yet they are suffering the most. The droughts and floods are becoming more frequent and more severe and have eroded people's coping mechanisms. "Second: Humanitarian funding must be frontloaded and flexible to address immediate lifesaving needs and go beyond that to strengthen the resilience of communities. Humanitarian funding must also be accompanied by investments in long-term solutions and localization. The international community needs to help Somalia access climate financing, to invest in livelihoods and promote climate adaptation, to give communities the chance to break out of this spiral of one humanitarian crisis after another. National partners - the government, and local NGOs, - must be at the forefront of the response because they are the first responders and have better access to people in need. "Third: it shows us that, however challenging it may be, success in Somalia is possible. Although initially slow to respond, the international community came to Somalia's aid when famine threatened to upend the country and reverse years of painstaking work. Aid organizations stepped up their efforts and famine was averted. There are moral -and strategic- imperatives to sustain that success. "Now is the time for the international community to sustain the support, to scale up the support, not to switch off. Somalia and other countries in this region are just one failed rainy season away from another human catastrophe - and one that will, once again, be measured in children's lives and children's futures." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Conflict, chaos, and neglect prove lethal for Sudan's children - UNICEF Geneva Palais briefing note on the situation for children in Sudan UNICEF This is a summary of what was said by UNICEF Spokesperson James Elder - to whom quoted text may be attributed - at today's press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva 30 May 2023 GENEVA, 30 May 2023 -- "On the back of conflict, chaos and neglect, more children in Sudan today require lifesaving support than ever before. A staggering - a sobering - 13.6 million children urgently require assistance. That's more than the entire population of Sweden or Rwanda or Portugal. All children. And the number is growing. "As Sudan slips into the shadows, life for children drifts ever closer towards an abyss. Just six weeks into ferocious fighting, five million more Sudanese children require support than pre-conflict. As hospitals are looted, schools are shelled, and a nutrition factory goes up in flames, hope is turning to ashes. "According to reports UNICEF has received, hundreds of girls and boys have been killed. And while we are unable to confirm estimates due to the intensity of the violence, these reports state thousands more have been injured. It is important to note that these reports of children killed or injured are only those who had contact with a medical facility. And thus, the reality is no doubt much worse, and gravely compounded as children confront perilous hurdles in accessing life-saving services in Sudan. Nutrition services, safe water, and healthcare have all been turned upside down. "All these factors combined risk becoming a death sentence, especially for the most vulnerable. I apologize for the starkness of my words, but time is a luxury children in Sudan do not have, and delicate language serves only to betray their desperate reality. "It is also important to state unequivocally that the most effective means of securing the safety and well-being of these children lies with those who bear the legal obligation to safeguard them. UNICEF once again calls on all parties to protect the children of Sudan, and to spare infrastructure on which children depend - such as health facilities, water and sanitation systems. "In response to the escalating crisis, humanitarian appeals have been made to address the pressing needs of Sudanese children. UNICEF has just launched its new Humanitarian Action for Children for Sudan and is calling for US$838 million to address the crisis, an increase of US$253 million since the current conflict began in April. "Despite challenges with humanitarian access and security, UNICEF and partners have succeeded in substantial amounts of support. To highlight just three: *Delivering 2300 MT in trucks loaded with health, nutrition, water and sanitation, and learning/child protection supplies to the displaced population in Madani and to states across the country. *UNICEF has maintained immunization services across 12 states by securing vaccine supplies and distribution, as well as securing and monitoring the cold chain system. *UNICEF has maintained 80 per cent of the malnutrition treatment centres (OTPs) across Sudan for children with severe wasting. "These programmes save lives. But they also require financial support. "Children in Sudan need a comprehensive and lasting peace. As they wait for that, and with funding, UNICEF's support will grow." ##### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Sixth Fleet, Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO Mark Conclusion of Exercise Formidable Shield 2023 US Navy 30 May 2023 From Lt.Cmdr. Tyler Barker OEIRAS, Portugal -- U.S. Sixth Fleet and Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO) concluded Europe's largest integrated air and missile defense (IAMD) exercise, Formidable Shield 2023, May 26, 2023. The exercise, which took place over a 1,000 nautical mile area of waterspace, from northern Norway to the west coast of Scotland, brought together multiple NATO Allied and partner nations, more than 20 ships and 35 aircraft, and nearly 4,000 personnel from across the NATO Alliance. Exercise participants fired 30 missiles across 23 live-fire scenarios against subsonic and supersonic targets testing capability in the air, land and maritime domains. The success of the multinational team in high-end live-fire engagements, as well as their ability to track, target, and share information across networks and connected communication systems, underscores the true capacity and capability of Allied maritime forces. "The NATO Alliance has the most sophisticated and capable combat systems anywhere in the world, and we've demonstrated our proficiency in leveraging these combat systems in complex, multi-domain, joint and combined operations over the past three weeks," said Vice Adm. Thomas Ishee, commander, U.S. Sixth Fleet and STRIKFORNATO. "As we continue to advance the scope and scale of the Formidable Shield series with each iteration, this exercise will no doubt endure as the hallmark of our defensive capabilities and our commitment to deter aggression, and prepare us to defend our nations and the Alliance." The exercise kicked off on May 8, as two independent surface action groups of Allied ships conducted exercise serials concurrently off the coast of Norway and in the North Atlantic Ocean. At the same time, ground-based High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) units, National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), and Allied aircraft based throughout northern Europe, joined their maritime counterparts in what was truly a joint and combined endeavor. Norway's Andya Space Range was the central focus of the first week of the exercise. Allied ships, aircraft, and land units joined forces to counter simulated threats in the High North. On the first day of the exercise, a U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon, Spanish Navy Alvaro de Bazan-class frigate ESPS Blas De Lezo and Royal Danish Navy Absalon-class frigate HDMS Esbern Snare simultaneously engaged a maritime target with Harpoon anti-ship missiles, setting the stage for the rest of the exercise. "Starting Formidable Shield 2023 off with a coordinated engagement involving air, land and maritime units from several nations above the Arctic Circle underscores the pace and complexity of this exercise and the important capability development opportunities it offers," said Rear Adm. James Morley, Deputy Commander of STRIKFORNATO. "We've brought the best that our nations have to offer in integrated air and missile defense together, joining sensors and effectors on a shared network that stretches across more than 1,000 miles of waterspace. Combining forces in this way is at the heart of what STRIKFORNATO provides to the Alliance and demonstrates, in a very tangible way, our commitment to NATO's Deter and Defend priorities." The joint and multi-domain nature of the exercise was further emphasized in the Norwegian fjords when U.S. reconnaissance Marines embarked aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Oscar Austin landed ashore, providing targeting data of maritime targets to ships at sea and the HIMARS and NASAMS units on land, enabling a combined force protection and engagement evolution. Communicating and operating across domains, the international force demonstrated the linkages and cooperation needed in high-end evolutions like this. After a successful week in Andya, SAG Sword steamed southwest to link up with SAG Shield off of Scotland's Cape Wrath. There, the SAGs united to neutralize a common (simulated) enemy, laying the foundation for events to come. After the War at Sea and a 14-ship, 8-nation division tactics event, focus shifted to the Hebrides Range, where Allied ships and aircraft tracked and cued ballistic missile targets, while simultaneously engaging subsonic and supersonic missile targets with Aster-15s and Aster-30s, Standard Missile-2, and Evolved Seasparrow Missiles. Hebrides evolutions also included the first air-to-air live-fire engagement of the Formidable Shield series, as Italian F-2000 Eurofighter Typhoons engaged an air breathing threat with an AMRAAM missile, as well as the first Allied aircraft cueing of a ballistic missile target. Innovation and interchangeability were front and center at the Hebrides, as multiple ships tested their ability to provide data and firing solutions to one another, collaboratively countering targets simulating cruise missiles in a variety of situations and environments. As the action continued to ramp up in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Allied force proved they were more than up to the task. "Executing so many successful high-end engagements in a demanding environment and against a variety of threats is the true mark of the NATO Alliance and a testament to the hard work my international staff and Sailors, Airmen, and Marines have invested to enhance and demonstrate the combat lethality of our Alliance in the execution of deterrence and defense," said Capt. Jon Lipps, exercise Formidable Shield's Officer in Tactical Command and Task Group Commander. "Nowhere else but during Formidable Shield does our Alliance integrate the ability to operate as a single, cohesive joint force, regardless of weather conditions, geographic location, or threat we face on a daily basis. Not only did Formidable Shield demonstrate credible, Alliance deterrence and defense during a live-fire scenario spanning the North Atlantic to the Arctic Circle, but it also enabled joint maneuver conditions in the North Sea for the entry of the GERALD R. FORD Carrier Strike Group and entry of the Joint and Amphibious Forces for the upcoming BALTOPS exercise into the Baltic Sea." Throughout the exercise, a multinational task group was embarked aboard Blas De Lezo who served as the flagship for the duration of Formidable Shield 2023. From their position aboard the flagship, the Task Group, led by Commodore Lipps, directed the tactical portions of the exercise to include: joint force employment, logistics, scenario intelligence injects, sensor and weapons direction, TADIL architecture, and all actions needed to maintain and sustain the force while underway above the Arctic Circle and North Atlantic. "Hosting a proficient and dedicated multinational staff onboard has been an honour, but also a great opportunity to demonstrate the capacity of this powerful ship," said Cmdr. Jesus Gonzalez-Cela Franco, Blas De Lezo's commanding officer. Multiple NATO and national commands were critical to enabling and sustaining a peer competitor-like demonstration of live-fire evolutions. From STRIKFORNATO providing overall command and control of the exercise, to Allied Joint Force Commands and NATO's Allied Maritime and Allied Air Commands, multiple industry partners, and logistics, communications, and technical professionals, Formidable Shield was truly an all hands effort. Planning for the exercise has been ongoing for years, and the collective Alliance team will no doubt begin planning for Formidable Shield 2025 in short order. "Years of planning and training for Formidable Shield 2023 were rewarded with a safe and incredibly successful exercise," said Lt. Cmdr. Dave Ingel, Formidable Shield Project Officer. "Our teams pushed the boundaries of what we are capable of in the Formidable Shield series, and I am excited to see how this Alliance continues to raise the bar for this exercise in future iterations." As the force departs the exercise operating area en route to follow-on national and international tasking, the lessons learned and experiences gained during a complex live-fire exercise like Formidable Shield will serve us and our Alliance joint force well in daily operations and in future exercises and activities. Some ships and aircraft will remain in the north of Europe to join up with Allies and partners for the premier Baltic Sea exercise, BALTOPS 2023. Routine activities on the Alliance's Northern Flank, including FOSH and BALTOPS, demonstrate the mutual commitment NATO nations have to one another and to their shared Alliance. These exercises are emblematic of NATO Allied operations, proving Alliance cohesion, cutting edge capacity and capability, and a shared commitment to deterring aggression and defending the Alliance and its members if called upon. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) Holds Reception During Oslo Port Visit US Navy 30 May 2023 From Jacob Mattingly OSLO, Norway -- Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe, U.S. Naval Forces Africa, Allied Joint Forces Command Naples, Adm. Stuart Munsch, and the U.S. Ambassador to Norway, Marc Nathanson, co-hosted a reception aboard the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) while anchored off the coast of Oslo, Norway, May 26, 2023. Capt. Rick Burgess, Gerald R. Ford's commanding officer opened the ceremony with a few words, followed by the playing of the U.S. and Norwegian national anthems. "Welcome to the United States' capital warship. It is an absolute honor to host in the event tonight, one in which we have the opportunity to share in friendship and camaraderie," said Burgess. The event highlighted the long-standing bilateral alliance between the U.S. and Norway, and celebrated the first port visit during Ford's deployment. Guest speakers included Munsch, Ambassador Nathanson, and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre. "It is really a great honor to welcome the USS Gerald R. Ford and its crew to Norway and to Oslo," said Stre. "This is a historical event. I believe it is a show of force, but it is also a show of friendship and it is a show of trust." Munsch spoke on how the event furthers the trust between the U.S. and Norway. "This is remarkable that we have 500 wonderful guests aboard this ship," said Munsch. "What you're looking at is actually just the tip of the iceberg for the relationship between the American armed forces and Norwegian armed forces." Ambassador Nathanson emphasized that NATO is more unified than ever, even in the face of an ever-evolving security environment, and that the evening's gathering of military and civilians from around the world aboard the Navy's newest, most advanced aircraft carrier testified to the alliance's cohesion. "My wife Jane and I are overjoyed to be here on this gorgeous Norwegian spring evening to welcome the USS Gerald R. Ford to Oslo," said Nathanson. "This tremendous vessel, the largest and most powerful warship in the world, has come to Oslo on her maiden deployment is a testament of the United States commitment to Norway, NATO and European security now and in the future." The evening included an opportunity for the more than 500 guests to enjoy food and beverages, as well as a ceremonial toast and cake cutting. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) is conducting a scheduled deployment in the Atlantic Ocean in support of interoperability and maritime security. The GRFCSG provides an inherently flexible naval force capable of deploying across combatant commands to meet emerging missions, deter potential adversaries, reassure allies and partners, enhance security and guarantee the free flow of global commerce. In total, the GRFCSG is deployed with more than 6,000 Sailors across all platforms ready to respond globally to combatant commander tasking. Gerald R. Ford is the U.S. Navy's newest and most advanced aircraft carrier. As the first-in-class ship of Ford-class aircraft carriers, CVN 78 represents a generational leap in the U.S. Navy's capacity to project power on a global scale. Ford-class aircraft carriers introduce 23 new technologies, including Electromagnetic Aircraft Launching System, Advanced Arresting Gear and Advanced Weapons Elevators. The new systems incorporated onto Ford-class ships are designed to deliver greater lethality, survivability and joint interoperability with a 20% smaller crew than a Nimitz-class carrier, paving the way forward for naval aviation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China Seeks Stronger Ties With Sudan Amid Regional, International Tug-of-War By Edward Yeranian May 30, 2023 China has been a major investment partner in Sudan's energy, agriculture and transport sectors in recent years, pumping nearly $6 billion in investments into the country since 2005. Its interests in Sudan date back to 1959, but China began to flourish on a broader level after the U.S. placed the country under economic sanctions in 1998. And now, as nations work to extend a shaky cease-fire between rival forces, China is looking to maintain a neutral stance and advance its own interests as well. China played a key role in developing Sudan's oil fields before the country split into north and south in 2010, investing close to $3 billion, according to some sources. Chinese workers built much of the project's infrastructure before it was handed over to the newly independent South Sudan. A pipeline to transport the oil continues to flow through the north of Sudan, where it is ultimately shipped from Port Sudan. In 1959, Khartoum became one of the first Arab states to recognize the People's Republic of China. Medical aid and construction projects like the People's Hall in Khartoum were signature pieces of early cooperation between both countries. And Beijing's interests with Sudan flourished during the years that former leader Omar al-Bashir ruled the country, Washington-based Middle East analyst Theodore Karasik told VOA. "China's interest in Sudan has been long and significant in terms of previous energy and other contracts, especially in mining and agriculture," Karasik said. "Beijing was also close to the Bashir regime, which had contracts with China's defense producers. Many of these interests also seem to overlap with Iran's interest in Sudan's Military Industrial Company." China "has taken a neutral stance in the current conflict in Sudan," Karasik said, noting that China "invests very heavily in infrastructure," such as "building a national rail system for some east African states." He also pointed out that China is "involved in peacekeeping in some regional states" and "has plans for logistic operations out of Port Sudan in a post-war Sudan." Relations between China and Russia are also problematic in Sudan, where both countries appear to have differing interests and strategies. "The real question," said Karasik, "is how Russia will interact with China in Sudan because in different parts of the continent they behave differently, or sometimes in tandem, in terms of their approach to extraction economics." "Sudan in China's larger regional strategy is part of a maritime arena that becomes critical in global shipping," he added. "It is not a coincidence that improving healthy Saudi-Chinese ties are occurring at the same time that Sudan is going through its catharsis. It's clear that China uses different partners for Sudan's business." Egyptian political sociologist Said Sadek told VOA that China's interests in Sudan are related to its regional geography and the growing strategic importance of the Red Sea basin to world trade. "The other motivation of course is [China's Belt and Road Initiative], because they wanted to be in the Red Sea and their only foreign base abroad is in Djibouti and this is part of their expansion in Africa, including Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea ... as they see that the Red Sea is going to be a very important place for strategic assets, [such as] oil, gas, and tourism," Sadek said. "The Saudis are currently building their $1 trillion NEOM project [planned smart city in Tabuk Province in northwestern Saudi Arabia] on the opposite side of the Red Sea," Sadek added, "with islands that are going to be like Las Vegas or Monte Carlo," so "China wants a strong presence in the area." Sadek said that "most of Africa's 54 countries are poor and China is very active in providing economic aid. ... [China] enters with soft loans and it builds infrastructure, because most African countries lack infrastructure ... and [Beijing doesn't] ask questions about human rights and democratization like the U.S. does." Paul Sullivan, Middle East analyst at the Atlantic Council, told VOA that China has focused its strategy on several areas in its efforts to cultivate stronger ties with Sudan. "Sudan is a big part of China's overall strategy in the region to bring east and North Africa more on its side," he said. "It has a lot to do with business, investments, infrastructure and even education, including teaching Mandarin to Sudanese. Sudan is a significant player in the Nile Basin but is weak and uncertain now, but has great potential with the right leadership. Instability and uncertainty open Sudan up to exploitation by other countries, terrorists, and organized crime." China is "interested in gold deposits in Sudan," Sullivan said, adding, "like Russia, China is also interested in ports in Sudan." He noted that a "pipeline system from South Sudan via Uganda to the Kenyan coast will likely get more interest after [the current conflict subsides]." U.S. and Chinese interests in Sudan and the region are at odds, Sullivan said, because the U.S. does not want a Chinese or Russian military or other port in Sudan, given "the sensitive strategic locations" of Port Sudan. Sullivan also underscored that China is trying "to block the U.S. more and more." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zimbabwe Summons US Diplomat About Social Media Ads Urging Voter Registration By Columbus Mavhunga May 30, 2023 The Zimbabwe government said it summoned the acting U.S. ambassador to Zimbabwe over an ad urging citizens in the southern African nation to register to vote. In a statement late Tuesday, Livit Mugejo, spokesman for Zimbabwe's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said Elaine French, the Charge d'Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Harare, had been summoned by Harare over several advertisements shared on social media this month by the U.S. Embassy. Mugejo said, "The most notable post was captioned: 'Register to vote and make sure your voice is heard,' among other tweets." Mugejo said French met with Rofina Chikava, Zimbabwe's acting secretary for foreign affairs, who "expressed concern over the [U.S.] mission's election related-social media posts, bordering on activism and meddling in Zimbabwe's internal affairs." Meg Riggs, the spokeswoman for the U S. Embassy in Harare, confirmed the meeting between French and Chikava and said there was no problem with the ads, which irked Zimbabwe. "We stand by our recent social media posts calling for peace during the election season," said Riggs. "These neutral apolitical messages feature the work of Zimbabwean artists who wanted to engage their fellow youths on the importance of peace during an electoral process." "Elections are a fundamental part of a functioning democracy. All Zimbabweans deserve this chance to choose their future safely," added Riggs. "...Our embassy will continue to urge peace, transparency and inclusivity in Zimbabwe." Alexander Rusero, who heads the International Relations Studies at Africa University in Zimbabwe, said President Emmerson Mnangagwa was justified in summoning French. "An embassy is simply situated in a country within the interests of furthering the host country's interests. Not necessarily bothered by internal dynamics of that state," said Rusero. "So, there are no relations that are going to be strained because the Americans, they are better placed to know what diplomacy entails." President Mnangagwa has not yet announced the date for the elections, expected in August. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Conflict drives acute hunger in the Democratic Republic of Congo - IPC report World Food Programme 30 May 2023 UN agencies warn that record hunger levels in the DRC require livelihood support and long-term investment. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) call for more support to improve livelihoods while responding to emergencies. May 29, 2023: Accra/Johannesburg/Kinshasa - An estimated 6.7 million people are experiencing crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity in North and South Kivu and Ituri, representing a 10 percent increase from last year. The latest Integrated Food Security Phase, IPC analysis released by the government found that 25.8 million people continue to face crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity triggered by poor harvests, violence-driven displacement, disease, unemployment, and collapsing infrastructure. The report shows that areas worst affected by food insecurity include Djugu and Masisi in Ituri and Rutshuru, Nyiragongo, Goma, Beni, and Mambassa in Nord Kivu. Violence and insecurity have cut off whole communities from their fields. Even when food is available, higher prices mean poor households need help to afford sufficient and proper nutritious food. The conflict has also made the delivery of humanitarian assistance difficult. "The fight against food insecurity remains the most critical challenge for the Democratic Republic of Congo. The IPC identified the number of people in food insecurity throughout the country," Jose Ilanga Lofonga, Secretary General of the Ministry of Agriculture, explained. "We must mobilize support and resources and protect the households who depend on food assistance in territories affected by conflict." "Food insecurity in the DRC over the past five years remains among the highest in the world. It places vulnerable populations in a tough situation," said Aristide Ongone Obame, FAO Representative in the DRC. "Despite this situation's structural and cyclical causes, investing in agricultural development pays off with multiplier effects. The DRC urgently needs additional funding to boost agricultural production and promote food and income sources diversification." "We are worried by the number of people displaced by conflict, leaving more families hungry. WFP is ramping up its assistance schemes to improve livelihoods. However, DRC needs greater investments in agriculture and rural development to turn the tide against hunger." WFP DRC Country Representative and Director Peter Musoko, said. UN Agencies Step up Action to Support the most vulnerable. FAO will provide multi-sectoral assistance to strengthen food production and generate income for vulnerable populations in areas severely affected by high levels of acute food insecurity. FAO requires US$106.4 million to assist around 1.8 million people in the crop, livestock, and fish production sectors in 2023. During the 2022/2023 agricultural season, the organization assisted nearly half a million people with seeds and farming tools to strengthen their livelihoods and increase local food production. In addition, an extensive FAO-improved seed production program is underway to replenish the national seed capital and increase the availability of improved seeds adapted to climate change and with high nutritional value. WFP plans to reach 7.1 million people in DRC this year. While emergency food assistance is critical to arresting hunger, WFP's resilience-building work fosters food self-sufficiency, sustainable livelihoods, early shock recovery, and long-term peace. For example, WFP's school meals program encourages the enrolment of children in schools, helps them stay there, and boosts local economies by providing markets for smallholder farmers. WFP needs US$ 257.8 million to sustain critical programs for the next six months. # # # Note for editors High levels of acute food insecurity" (or acute hunger) refers to populations in IPC phase 3 or higher. Populations classified in IPC Phase 3 (Crisis) and IPC Phase 4 (Emergency) need urgent action to save lives, reduce food consumption gaps and protect livelihoods. In Phase 3, families may resort to less preferred or less nutritious food or may skip meals or sell productive assets to put food on the table; in Phase 4, they may resort to more extreme strategies such as selling the last animal that provided them with a means of livelihood or begging. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. It aims to transform agrifood systems, making them more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable for better production, nutrition, environment, and life, leaving no one behind. FAO's goal is to achieve food security for all and ensure people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is the world's largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kosovo Force (KFOR) Operation Joint Guardian The Balkans have traditionally been regarded as the "powder keg of Europe". Now Europe has two powder kegs, one in a hot war and the other about to explode. Moscow is playing a game of thrones in Kosovo, creating a crisis to distract attention and resources away from Ukraine, resulting in the "creeping" implementation of their strategic goals. Russia's recent failures against NATO in Ukraine have pushed Moscow to look to create a new hot spot. NATO was winning its war against Russia, with Moscow having failed to resolve deep problems in the Balkans in its favor over the past thirty plus years. Because the Russia-Ukraine conflict has not achieved the desired effect for Russia, Moscow needed to create a new war on the European continent. Moscow views the worsening rift between Serbia and Kosovo as an opportunity that it can take advantage of to weaken Western influence in the Balkans. Russian Foreign Minister Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned on 29 May 2023 the crisis in Kosovo could escalate into a "huge explosion in the heart of Europe," the same place "where NATO carried out aggression against Yugoslavia in 1999." Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called for decisive steps to be taken to "deescalate" tensions, and "not half-measures like the idea of the Americans to temporarily 'resettle' the new 'mayors' away from municipal buildings to other facilities." Belgrade (backed by Russia and China) regards Kosovo as a breakaway Serbian province, while the US and most of the European Union have recognized Pristina's independence. Ethnic Serbs in Kosovo are often highly distrustful of national authorities and retain close relations with Belgrade. The four municipalities of northern Kosovo are largely ethnically Serb, while Kosovo as a whole is 90% ethnically Albanian. Many in the north do not recognize the statehood of Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Mao Ning, spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, told a press conference on 30 May 2023 that China supports Serbia's effort to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposes unilateral actions by the temporary institutions in Pristina and calls on it to perform its duty of establishing an association/community of Serb majority municipalities. In light of escalating tensions, troops from the NATO-led KFOR peacekeeping mission were deployed in Zvecan, a Serb-dominated town some 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Pristina, among other spots. NATO's Joint Force Command Naples said on 30 May 2023 that it was deploying reserve troops to Kosovo to reinforce the NATO-led KFOR peacekeeping force. The information was later confirmed by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, who said 700 soldiers were being deployed to the Balkan country. NATO has directed the deployment of the Operational Reserve Forces (ORF) for the Western Balkans, which was on a seven-day readiness-to-deploy status. Belgrade responded to the crisis by putting the military on high alert, and deploying troops to the administrative border with Kosovo.Serbian Defense Minister Milos Vucevic said that tensions in Kosovo had reached a maximum and could escalate into an armed conflict. He stressed that the units of the Serbian army continue to be distributed and take up positions in the direction of the administrative line with Kosovo and Metohija. "The situation is only outwardly peaceful. At the moment there are no incidents. The tension is maximum, the indicator is in the red zone of tension, primarily among the Serbs, who are directly under the threat of terrorist acts of the regime (Kosovo's "premier" - ed.) Albina Kurti. He is doing everything for in order to expel the Serbs and lead to an escalation that will justify further aggression and terror against the Serbs, with the ultimate goal of complete ethnic cleansing of Kosovo and Metohija from Serbs," the Minister of Defense said on TV Prva. "Of course, Serbia can be drawn into the conflict and be represented by the aggressor side. We saw this scenario not only in the case of Ukraine , who calls whom the aggressor there, but also in the former Yugoslavia . Then the regular units of the Yugoslav People's Army were proclaimed the aggressor side. We must be as prudent as possible..., the units have been tasked with distributing their positions tomorrow by 15.00 (16.00 Moscow time)," the head of the Serbian Defense Ministry said. President Aleksandar Vucic held a televised national address 29 May 2023 in which he blamed Albin Kurti for the violence, and accused Pristina of deliberately fueling unrest to try to cause a direct clash between Belgrade and NATO. United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 states that "agreement should be reached on" to allow Serbia to deploy "an agreed number" [Russian sources report "as many as 1,000"] of Serbian troops and police in Kosovo. Russia, which has long had close ties with Serbia, said "decisive steps" were needed to de-escalate the situation. Russia's foreign ministry urged "the West to finally silence its false propaganda and stop blaming incidents in Kosovo on Serbs driven to despair, who are peaceful, unarmed, trying to defend their legitimate rights and freedoms." EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell called on Kosovar and Serbian leaders to seek a path to de-escalate tensions through talks. "We have too much violence already in Europe today. We cannot afford another conflict," Borrell said. On 29 May 2023, at least 11 Italian and 19 Hungarian soldiers from KFOR were injured in clashes with ethnic Serbs in northern Kosovo. Some sustained fractures, burns from improvised explosives and injuries from firearm use. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said that 52 ethnic Serbs were also injured. Residents of Serb-majority areas in Kosovo had been protesting as ethnically Albanian mayors took office following April 2023 elections boycotted by the Serb community. That boycot allowed ethnic Albanians to take control of local councils despite a tiny turnout of under 3.5% of voters in those municipalities. Kosovo authorities forced their way into municipal buildings to escort new mayors in, earning Pristina rebukes from the United States and other allies that had previously called for restraint. The previous mayors resigned due to a dispute with the government in Pristina. Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic stressed that it was unacceptable for mayors unelected by Serbs to be allowed to govern in Serb-majority municipalities. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic blamed Kosovo authorities for causing problems by installing new mayors, while Pristina claimed that Vucic has sought to destabilize Kosovo. Serbs there have long demanded the implementation of an EU-brokered 2013 deal to create an association of autonomous municipalities in their area. Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti objected, saying this would create a mini-state and effectively split Kosovo along ethnic lines. The US expelled Kosovo from an ongoing US-led military exercise in Europe. US Ambassador in Kosovan capital Pristina, Jeffrey Hovenier made the announcement. "For Kosovo, this exercise is over," Hovenier said in comments to local media in Pristina. The US is the among the biggest international backers of Kosovo and had supported its independence from Serbia in 2008. The expulsion from military exercise is being as the first US step to indicate Kosovo that all in not well in the current scenario. NATO intervened in Kosovo in 1999 in a bid to end violence after years of increasing repression of the Albanian population in what was then Yugoslavia at that point made up of Serbia, of which Kosovo was a province, and Montenegro by the Serb-dominated government, amid a growing Kosovo Albanian guerrilla insurgency. The Western military alliance carried out a 78-day massive aerial bombardment campaign that led to Serbian forces pulling out of Kosovo. The outcome of the war, in addition to Serbia's deep economic troubles, ultimately led to massive protests that pushed out Serbian dictator Slobodan Milosevic. As of 2023 around 3,800 troops from 27 different countries (mostly NATO members) were stationed in Kosovo for the KFOR mission. They come from various EU states (though not all EU countries recognize Kosovo as a state), regional neighbors like North Macedonia and Montenegro, and non-EU NATO powers like the United States, Canada, Turkey and the United Kingdom. Several non-NATO countries also contribute. KFOR troops have been stationed in Kosovo since the end of the Kosovo War in 1999 to keep the peace between Kosovo Serbs and Kosovo Albanians, with tensions and violence flaring up periodically. Back then, KFOR troops numbered 50,000. Turkiyes Defense Ministry announced on 03 June 2023 that the country will deploy a commando battalion to Kosovo at the request of the NATO Joint Force Command. Ankara said its troops will help quell tensions in the Serbian breakaway province's north, which have intensified since ethnic-Albanian mayors were dubiously elected in the regions Serb-majority area. Our country closely follows the developments in the Balkans, where we have common historical and cultural values, the ministry said. The statement added that Ankara is taking a constructive stance towards the resolution of the recent events in the friendly and brotherly northern part of Kosovo, which harm regional security and stability. >h3>Background On 10 June 1999, the UN Security Council adopted a detailed resolution that outlined the civil administration and peacekeeping responsibilities in Kosovo and paved the way for peaceful settlement of the conflict and the safe return home of hundreds of thousands of Kosovo Albanian refugees and displaced persons. The resolution was passed under Chapter VII of the UN Charter which allowed the security forces to carry weapons to protect themselves and use force in carrying out the resolution's directives. The resolution "authorizes member states and relevant international organizations to establish the international security presence in Kosovo" as set out in the military agreement between NATO and the FRY. That peacekeeping operation was meant to enforce the cease-fire, demilitarize the KLA and other Kosovo Albanian groups, and establish a secure environment for the return of the refugees. The force had a unified NATO chain of command under the political direction of the North Atlantic Council in consultation with non-NATO force contributors. The NATO countries were united that in the absence of the NATO Joint Guardian force at the core of any international security presence in Kosovo, the refugees would not return and the other NATO objectives would not be met. A NATO force at the core of an international security presence was regarded as the magnet to attract the refugees back. In the absence of a NATO force with American participation, it was the view of the US Government that it was unrealistic to think the Kosovar Albanians would disarm the KLA, something of great interest to Russia. The US believed that if NATO forces deployed, the rationale for the Kosovar Liberation Army having an armed force to protect itself against Serbs would disappear. The Rambouillet envisaged something like 2,500 Serb military and 2,500 police for a year, though with the commencement of Operation Allied Force NATO required all of those forces going, in views of the probability that the Kosovar Albanians would not come home to a situation where those same forces remain at their posts. NATO envisaged the standing up of thousands of Kosovar Albanian police, including possibly people from the KLA, who would be trained by the international community and could serve police functions. NATO did not contemplate a partition of Kosovo. It had been unofficially suggested that one possible solution was a de facto partition of Kosovo whereby the Russians would patrol the north, the mineral-rich areas, and NATO would patrol the south. Before Allied Force began operating, NATO had plans to put in a peacekeeping force of 28,000 people. Of that, 4,000 people would have been Americans. By mid-May 1999 NATO had reassessed its Op Plan for the Joint Guardian mission to see to what degree they would need reinforcement beyond the level that was originally foreseen for the KFOR [Kosovo force] international security presence in Kosovo. NATO had 16,000 troops deployed in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia trained for their mission as well as dealing with the enormous refugee inflow. Certain reinforcements from the UK and from Germany were arrived as of mid-May. The NATO pre-deployment in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia was conducted to be in a position to move very quickly into Kosovo to set up an initial military command structure and an initial infrastructure to get the basic functions going. The goal was not only for other NATO troops to come in quickly but also for the transition authority and for the humanitarian relief organizations, which in the very early stages would need a great deal of military back-up, to establish themselves by the time the NATO core element was on the ground in Kosovo. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 30 May 2023 - Day 461 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. "To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal] The UK Ministry of Defence reported that on 25 May 2023, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reported that Russian military spending grew by 9.2 per cent in 2022 to USD $86.4 billion. SIPRI assesses this equates to 4.1 per cent of Russia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Russia's true military spending is highly uncertain due to the increased use of classified budget lines, especially since February 2022, and the lack of transparency. Russia has only recently resumed publishing headline expenditure breakdowns after suspending this in May 2022. It is almost certain that military spending remains elevated, and this is putting pressure on Russian government finances. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of May 30th, the Russian Federation carried out another massive airstrike on the territory of Ukraine, in particular, on the capital of Ukraine, using the "Shahed-136/131" strike UAVs. 29x out of 31x drones were destroyed by Ukrainian defenders. Unfortunately, there are victims among the civilian population, private houses, other civil and administrative infrastructure have been damaged. In general, Russian forces carried out 44x air strikes and 1x missile strike, launched about 20x MLRS attacks on Ukrainian settlements and Ukrainian Defense Forces. The threat of missile and air strikes remains high across Ukraine. Russia continues to focus its main efforts on attempts to completely occupy the Luhansk and Donetsk Oblasts. During the day, Ukrainian Armed Forces forces repelled 11x Russian attacks. Volyn' and Polissya axes: the operational situation remains stable, there are no signs of the formation of offensive groupings. Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: Russia continues to maintain a military presence in the areas bordering Ukraine. Today, Russian forces made an unsuccessful attempt to penetrate the DRG through the State Border of Ukraine in the area of Zelene settlement of Kharkiv Oblast. They also carried out an airstrike in the area of the village of Udy. Carried out mortar and artillery shelling of Yanzhulivka and Karpovychi settlements of Chernihiv Oblast; Seredyna-Buda, Fotovizh, Velika Pisarivka, Sumy Oblast. Kup'yans'k axis: Russian forces carried out unsuccessful offensives west of Masyutivka in the Kharkiv Oblast and on the Novoselivskyi axis in the Luhansk Oblast. Kam'ianka, Novomlyns'k, Dvorichna, Zapadne, Kislivka, Kotlyarivka, Berestov in the Kharkiv Oblast were shelled by Russian artillery and mortars. Lyman axis: Russian forces did not conduct offensive operations. They carried out airstrikes in the vicinities of Belogorivka, Luhansk Oblast, and Yampolivka, Donetsk Oblast. Nevs'ke, Belogorivka of the Luhansk Oblast and Spirne of the Donetsk Oblast were shelled by artillery fire. Bakhmut axis: Russian forces did not conduct offensive operations. They carried out an air strike in the Vesely area and a missile strike in the New York area of the Donetsk Oblast. Orikhovo-Vasylivka, Bohdanivka, Khromov, Ivanivske, Bila Gora, Severnye, Zalizne and New York of the Donetsk Oblast suffered from Russian artillery shelling. Avdiivka axis: Russian forces carried out offensive operation near Severne, albeit without success. Russian airstrikes recorded in the Avdiivka area. Russians shelled Avdiivka, Orlivka, Pervomais'ke and Netaylovo in the Donetsk Oblast. Mar'inka axis: Ukrainian Defenders repelled all Russian attacks in the vicinities of Mar'inka, as well as near Pobieda and Novomykhailivka. At the same time, Russian forces carried out an airstrike near the Maryinka area. Georgiivka and Pobeda of the Donetsk Oblast were shelled by artillery. Shakhtars'k axis: Russian forces launched an airstrike in the area of Velika Novosilka. They shelled Vugledar, Novoukrainka, Prechistivka, Zolota Niva, and Shakhtars'ke. Zaporizhzhia and Kherson axes: Russian forces are on the defensive. They carried out an airstrike in the Orikhov Oblast of the Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Shelled the settlements of Zelene Pole, Novopil, and Temyrivka in the Donetsk Oblast; Olhivske, Gulyaipole, Mala Tokmachka, Novodanilivka, Orihiv, Novoandriivka and Stepove of the Zaporizhzhia Oblast; Sadove, Komyshany, Kizomys, Kherson Oblast. Ukrainian Air Force conducted 8x strikes on manpower and military equipment concentration areas. Ukrainian missile and artillery units hit 3x control points, weapons and military equipment concentration, 4x artillery units at firing positions, an anti-aircraft missile system, 3x warehouses of fuel and lubricants, and a radio-electronic warfare station. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that during the day, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation carried out group strikes using long-range precision air-based weapons against central decision-making points where terrorist attacks against Russian territory were being planned under the guidance of Western intelligence experts. All the assigned targets have been engaged. In Kupyansk direction, the Zapad Group of Forces has hit the units of the enemy close to Timkovka (Kharkov region) and Novoselovskoye (Lugansk People's Republic). In addition, actions of one sabotage and reconnaissance group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been thwarted near Sinkovka (Kharkov region). The enemy's losses amounted to up to 40 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system during the day. One U.S.-manufactured AN/TPQ-50 counterbattery warfare radar has been destroyed near Moskovka (Kharkov region). In Krasny Liman direction, Army Aviation and artillery of the Tsentr Group of Forces engaged the units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Chervonaya Dibrova, Kuzmino (Lugansk People's Republic), and Yampolovka (Donetsk People's Republic). Over 85 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, two pick-up trucks, one D-20 howitzer, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery unit have been eliminated in this direction during the day. In Donetsk direction, Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, units, and artillery of the Yug Group of Forces have eliminated up to 145 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, three motor vehicles, and one D-30 howitzer during the day. An ammunition depot of the 54th Mechanised Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces has been hit close to Krasnoye (Donetsk People's Republic). In South Donetsk and Zaporozhye directions, aviation and artillery of the Vostok Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on the AFU units close to Velikaya Novosyolka and Vremevka (Donetsk People's Republic). One sabotage and reconnaissance group of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has been neutralised close to Vladimirovka (Donetsk People's Republic). Over 40 Ukrainian military and four motor vehicles were hit in these directions over the past 24 hours. In Kherson direction, up to 30 Ukrainian troops, five motor vehicles, and one Akatsiya self-propelled artillery system, and D-30 and Msta-B howitzers have been eliminated over the past 24 hours. Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, and artillery of the Russian Group of Forces have engaged 88 AFU artillery units, manpower and hardware in 96 areas during the day. Air defence forces shot down seven HIMARS MLRS shells and one HARM anti-radiation missile during the day. In addition, eight Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were obliterated in the areas of Inzhenernoye (Zaporozhye region), Staromayorskoye (Donetsk People's Republic), Kolomyichikha (Lugansk People's Republic), and Veliky Vyselok and Petrovskoye (Kharkov region). In total, 429 airplanes and 235 helicopters, 4,379 unmanned aerial vehicles, 424 air defence missile systems, 9,328 tanks and other armoured combat vehicles, 1,100 combat vehicles equipped with MRLS, 4,941 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 10,544 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China Space Station sees heavenly reunion of 6 taikonauts Global Times By Fan Anqi and Deng Xiaoci Published: May 30, 2023 09:32 AM The China Space Station staged its first "heavenly reunion" of six taikonauts on Tuesday evening after it entered the application and development phase at the end of 2022. Led by mission commander and veteran taikonaut Jing Haipeng, the incoming Shenzhou-16 trio entered the space station at 6:22 pm on Tuesday where they received warm embraces from their Shenzhou-15 brothers. The historic moment marked the beginning of China's second in-orbit direct handover between two Shenzhou crews, following the first one between the Shenzhou-15 and Shenzhou-14 crew in November 2022. Shenzhou-15 mission commander Fei Junlong and his fellow crew members Deng Qingming and Zhang Lu, who are famous for their great skills and passion for Chinese calligraphy, decorated the Tianhe core module with red and joyful couplets for the welcome party. The six taikonauts exchanged hugs and firm handshakes before they have a group picture taken to celebrate the reunion in space. Next, the crew of the two missions will carry out an in-orbit handover and will live together in the space station for about five days before the Shenzhou-15 returns to Earth, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). Currently, a total of 17 astronauts are in orbitissix taikonauts from China, five NASA astronauts from the US, three cosmonauts from Russia, two from Saudi Arabia and one from the UAE. Marking the first manned space mission after China's space station entered its application and development phase, the Shenzhou-16 spacecraft carrying three taikonauts was successfully launched onboard a Long March-2F carrier rocket at 9:31 am on Tuesday from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center located in Northwest China. After a flight of around 10 minutes, the Shenzhou-16 spacecraft successfully separated from the launch vehicle and entered its preset orbit, with the crew members in good condition, according to a statement the CMSA sent to the Global Times, announcing the success of the launch mission. At 4:29 pm on Tuesday, some six and a half hours after launch, the Shenzhou-16 spacecraft docked with the Tianhe core module's radial port, announced the CMSA. First civilian taikonaut For the team lineup, the Shenzhou-16 includes a payload expert, Gui Haichao, along with flight engineer Zhu Yangzhu - two first-timers in a crew that will be led by veteran taikonaut Jing Haipeng, whose trip marks his fourth time in space. All three crew members hold a doctorate degree and are members of the Communist Party of China. It is the first time Chin has sent a civilian taikonaut to space. Gui, the 36-year-old bespectacled payload specialist, has attracted the most public attention, as he has inspired millions of space dreamers in China and abroad. He will be responsible for managing and operating scientific research and experimental projects in the space station, focusing mainly on the management and operation of payloads. Zhu the flight engineer will be responsible for routine maintenance and repair of the space station and technical tests and experiments. During their mission, the Shenzhou-16 crew will continue to conduct extravehicular activities and cargo airlock extravehicular tasks, space science experiments, and the trial of new technologies. The mission will include platform management, taikonaut support system tests, and science education activities, the Global Times learned from China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC). Challenging docking maneuver This is the first manned space mission in the space station's application and development phase, and the first radial rendezvous and docking performed under the T-structure formed by the three modules. Compared with previous radial docking practices executed by the Shenzhou-13 and Shenzhou-14 spacecraft during the construction stage of the space station, the maneuver this time represented a more complex challenge, given the larger combination mass and size, and more intricate aerodynamic effects, the CASC revealed. Specifically, with the successive joining of more modules and spacecraft including the extra-large Wentian and Mengtian lab modules, as well as manned and cargo spaceships, the space station's size, mass, inertia, and center of gravity have changed significantly, impacting the attitude control of docking vehicles, with some parameters even increasing by orders of magnitude. Previously when the Shenzhou-14 manned spacecraft docked radially with the space station, it weighed only 47 tons. Now, the Shenzhou-16 has faced a 90-ton space station complex with crew onboard. To cope with the challenge, the Shenzhou-16 has used a relative attitude and position control manner, especially for close-range docking. The changes in motion characteristics of the space station also directly affected the spacecraft's rendezvous and docking control process. The 'golden rocket' As for the launch vehicle, deputy chief designer of the Long March-2F carrier rocket Liu Feng told the Global Times that they have made over 20 technical adjustments to improve rocket performance. The development team has focused on improving redundancy and equipment advancement to continuously enhance the reliability of the rocket, Liu said, noting that the team has promoted the localization of various electrical system components on the rocket so as to further improve the level of independent control of the product. The team used digital and information technology to empower the rocket and introduced "intelligence" into data interpretation. With the construction of a remote measurement and launch support system, developers have achieved real-time communication of test data for the Long March-2F rocket, so that ground control personnel can more easily and comprehensively receive relevant data from the rocket, and carry out real-time monitoring and analysis while displaying it on the shared screen simultaneously. According to CMSA spokesperson Lin Xiqiang, the Shenzhou-15 crew has so far stayed and worked in orbit for 182 days, during which they have successfully carried out four extravehicular activities (EVAs), which set a new record with most space walking missions executed for a single crew. Moreover, the Shenzhou-15 trio have achieved multiple payload tasks outside the space station cabin, human factors engineering technology research, 28 aerospace medical experiments, and 38 space science trials covering life ecology, material science and fluid mechanics among others, through which they have obtained valuable experimental data, Lin said. Before returning to Earth, the Shenzhou-15 crew will carry on with their space science experiments in orbit, complete the collection and disposal of experimental samples and check the items that will return to Earth in their capsule. It takes around six months for those who serve on long-term spaceflight missions to see a return to their normal physical condition, before they resume training and participate in another round of space flight candidate selection. It will take about one to one and a half years for such candidates to be able to execute another space mission, Lin explained, noting that he believes we could soon see the crew again in space in subsequent missions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea Launches Alleged 'Space Launch Vehicle' to Counter Regional Threats Sputnik News 20230530 Japan previously warned that any launch from North Korea that violates its territory would be met with "destructive measures," with Japanese Prime Minister urging global leaders that any launch by Pyongyang is a "serious violation" to UN resolutions and a threat to Japan. North Korea reportedly fired what is believed to be a "space launch vehicle" early Wednesday, prompting a string of sirens and emergency alerts to sound off in neighboring South Korea and Japan. Citing South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, South Korean media reported the projectile traveled over the Yellow Sea but did not affect Seoul city, despite earlier warnings being triggered for the metropolitan area. An early analysis of the launch indicates the projectile disappeared from radar tracking before it reached its "expected drop point," South Korea media reported, adding that the launch was conducted out of the Tongchang-ri area. Emergency warnings calling for individuals to seek shelter had been earlier issued for residents in Japan's Okinawa region and Seoul; however, it was later reported by US media that the warning issued for Seoul had been done in "error." Since-surfaced video footage captured sirens sounding off in both countries. Preliminary reports suggested the launch was that of a ballistic missile before it was determined it was likely that of the "space launch vehicle" Pyongyang had earlier hinted at in response to ongoing regional threats from the US and its allies. An unidentified source has relayed to media that officials are presently investigating the possibility that the space vehicle may have either crashed or exploded midair. An emergency national security meeting has since been called by the South Korean government. The launch comes after North Korea informed Japan and the International Maritime Organization on Monday that it planned to launch a reconnaissance satellite between May 31 and June 11. Earlier, the US, Japan and South Korea held phone talks over Pyongyang's plan to put a satellite into orbit. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada ordered to shoot down the rocket if it poses a threat to the country's territory. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DPRK Military Satellites North Korea fired what it claimed was a "space launch vehicle" 30 May 2023, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reportedly witnessed the launch. An early analysis of the launch indicated the Malligyong-1 (meaning "Telescope-1") projectile disappeared from radar tracking before it reached its "expected drop point," South Korea media reported, adding that the Cheollima-1 launch was conducted out of the Tongchang-ri area. Citing South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, South Korean media reported the projectile traveled over the Yellow Sea but did not affect Seoul city, despite earlier warnings being triggered for the metropolitan area. In Korean, Chinese, and Japanese mythology the Chollima is a horse often portrayed with wings. It is either too swift to be mounted or capable of running a thousand ri (400 km/250 mi) per day, giving rise to the expression "rush at Chollima Speed!" Legend states that no man could tame him. The Chollima symbolizes the advance of Korean society at the speed of the Chollima. The chollima is an important symbol in North Korea. It is used as the nickname of its national association football team. The state also gave the name to the Chollima Movement, which promoted fast economic development, similar to that of the Chinese Great Leap Forward and the Soviet Stakhanovite movement. The rocket carrying the country's first military spy satellite failed due to engine problems, DPRK state-run media said, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff detected the launch at 6:29 a.m. on Wednesday, local time, from Tongchang-ri on the country's northwestern coast and it fell about 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of South Korea's Eocheong island. North Korea's state-run Korean Central News agency reported its "Cheollima-1" satellite launch rocket failed due to instability in the engine and fuel system. It said the rocket plunged into the sea after losing thrust due to the abnormal starting of the second-stage engine. The KCNA said that North Korea is currently analyzing what went wrong and will launch another rocket in the near future. The National Intelligence Service presented its analysis at a closed-door meeting of a parliamentary committee on 31 May 2023. According to a lawmaker who attended the session, it said the problem may have happened partly because the North set a different, technically difficult flight route from past launches. The lawmaker said other factors include the fact that the North spent only several days preparing for the launch whereas such work usually takes around three weeks, and construction underway at the launch site had not been completed. South Korea's intelligence agency pointed at the North's decision to suddenly shift the course of the vehicle toward the west, as well as the drastically cut-short preparation process -- as the reasons behind the failure. It also judged the satellite weighs around 300 kilograms, is 1 point 3 meters long, and that it's only capable of carrying out reconnaissance missions. Regarding the regime's plan to carry out another launch soon, the agency says it estimates that it'll take the regime weeks to fix the engine failure unless the defect turns out to be minor. Seoul's presidential office convened an emergency meeting of the National Security Council. Members condemned the launch as a "serious provocation" and a violation of UNSC resolutions, that threatens peace on the Korean Peninsula and in the international community. President Yoon Suk Yeol was immediately briefed on the launch and continued to be updated on the situation in real-time. The launch prompted city officials in Seoul to issue warning to citizens to prepare to evacuate. On Baengnyeong-do Island off South Korea's west coast and located below the rocket's flight path, residents were quickly ushered into shelters as public speakers blasted out warnings for 20 minutes. The launch also prompted officials to send emergency evacuation messages via text and public speakers all over the capital city, as they initially thought that debris may fall from the sky. Following the chaos, Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff identified an apparent part of the North's vehicle and retrieved it for examination. Japan issued evacuation order for residents of Okinawa region. Soon after, a text alert said: "Citizens, please prepare to evacuate and allow children and the elderly to evacuate first" as an air raid siren sounded in central Seoul. "Missile launch. Missile launch. North Korea appears to have launched a missile. Please take shelters inside buildings or underground," said the alert tweeted by the prime minister's office and carried on national broadcaster NHK. Emergency warnings calling for individuals to seek shelter had been earlier issued for residents in Japan's Okinawa region and Seoul; however, it was later reported by US media that the warning issued for Seoul had been done in "error." There's been a narrative painted by local reports that North Korea is making decisions haphazardly, leading to premature satellite launches and technical setbacks. However, experts are suggesting a different scenario. They're saying North Korea only made the decision because they deemed they were fully prepared. By 29 May 2023, they were likely in a state of full readiness, having identified no issues with the missile or the space launch vehicle. Given the absence of structural and data-related problems, they would have seen no reason to postpone the launch. North Korea had been putting on the finishing touches for this spy satellite launch, since April and, despite being a failure, doesn't necessarily indicate a rushed attempt. It could be perceived as a stepping stone toward a long-term goal of successfully placing a spy satellite in orbit. Some also suggest that the timing was North Korea's plan to throw South Korea off as North Korea's high-ranking military official, Ri Pyong-chol, said that North Korea will launch the spy satellite into space sometime during June. Did Ri Pyong-chol not know that they're going to launch a rocket today? Possibly he said that they're going to fire one in June? Some thought there was a possibility that they were trying to throw South Korea into confusion. North Korea's state-led Korean Central News Agency said there'll be another attempt in the near future. But exactly when.. is hard to speculate. An official from South Korea's presidential office told Yonhap News Agency that the next launch may happen before June 11th, aligning with the timeline North Korea previously shared. Some experts beg to differ---and think it may take months to rectify the problem and attempt another launch. For years, going back to 1989, the DPRK was and is known to be working on dual purpose civil and primarily military Communications satellites as well as ERTS and Weather satellites. So far the record is three failed satellite launches involving several types of communications satellites. The North Korean communication satellite industry is new with little identified about it publicly. Several years ago it was suggested that North Korea intended to launch a communications satellite in addition to a weather satellite and ERTS earth resources satellite. The development of these systems and technology was likely a product of both internal research and development and international cooperation, with Iran among others. The fact that North Korea was committed as of 2009 to this type of satellite development rather than manned space flight or space research suggested to observers that the space program was a cover for missile development for other purposes, or other dual civilian-military purposes. A desire for complete autonomy was also suggested. Regional allies and friendly neighbors such as the Russians and Chinese could easily have provided communications, weather and ERTS satellite technology or services. In a country with strictly rationed power, communications were not seen as a major priority for the population at large. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ordered the launch of a military spy satellite. This was reported 19 April 2023 by their state-led Korean Central News Agency after he paid a visit to the National Space Development Agency. Alongside some high-ranking officials in the regime's reconnaissance department, Kim took a look at what's reported to be the finished satellite device-the first of its kind. From the released photo by KCNA, the satellite appears to be of a hexagonal shape with four solar panels on top. Experts are estimating the device to weigh about 200 to 300 kilograms. Kim Jong-un urged the launch to happen as scheduled. leading expert in North Korean studies says that this could be within this month. "It appears that Kim Jong-un has determined their technological readiness to deploy a spy satellite and may launch it before the Seoul-Washington summit to get the biggest political response out of it." The expert also said this satellite should also be seen as a threat to South Korea. A spy satellite will enable the North to gather meaningful intel on South Korea's defenses-making it that much easier for North Korea to strike first. The last time North Korea attempted to launch a rocket into space was seven years ago--trying to put an earth observation satellite, named the Kwangmyongsong-4, into orbit. Experts project that this new satellite will be the next step up from their last satellite and will be dubbed the Kwangmyongsong-5. Launching its first reconnaissance satellite is key to North Korea's five-year military advancement plan rolled out in 2021, with the aim of having it ready by April 2023. Sending a satellite into orbit requires a long-range space rocket. While space development is an open race for many countries this is not the case for North Korea. Because the required rocket involves long-range missile technology and the regime is banned from using it under UN Security Council resolutions regardless of the purpose. Despite warnings from the international community, North Korea has been accelerating its militarization of space. Earlier in May 2023, leader Kim Jong-un inspected the satellite, and gave the "go-ahead" for quote "future action plan." Affecting that timing --the weather factors --to avoid seasonal monsoon rains or typhoons. North Korea says its leader Kim Jong Un inspected the country's first spy satellite ahead of its launch. The 17 May 2023 edition of the ruling Worker's Party newspaper Rodong Sinmun said that Kim inspected on Tuesday the country's No.1 military reconnaissance satellite, which is ready for loading after undergoing the final assembly check and space environment test. The paper also said Kim approved the next step of the action plan for the spy satellite. The plan was reportedly made by the Satellite Launch Preparatory Committee. But the article did not touch on specific schedules. Kim is shown in a photograph clad in a white coat looking at what appears to be the spy satellite. He is accompanied by his daughter. The paper quoted Kim as saying that as the United States and South Korea escalate their confrontational moves against North Korea, the country will more squarely and offensively exercise its sovereignty and the right to self-defense. On 16 May 2023 a US-based research group said that a large crane had been built near the launch pad at the Sohae Satellite Launching Station in North Korea's northwest. The group suggests that repair work may be underway. United Nations Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from launching objects using ballistic missile technology. But the country reiterated its intention to launch a long-range ballistic missile under the pretext of putting a satellite into orbit. The launch would be the first since February 2016, in violation of the UN resolutions. North Korea had a history of launching long-range ballistic missiles after claiming it would send up a satellite. Since 1998, North Korea attempted six satellite launches. Just two entered orbit only to fail to communicate with the ground. The first time was in April 2009 when it launched a missile that traveled more than 3,000 kilometers, passing over northeastern Japan. The projectile is believed to have fallen into the Pacific Ocean. In April 2012, North Korea made the same claim, then launched a rocket that exploded in mid-air shortly after lift-off. Pyongyang had designated points in the Yellow Sea and Pacific Ocean as zones for possible falling objects. That path would have taken a missile past the Sakishima Islands in Okinawa Prefecture. North Korea admitted that the launch was a failure. It tried again in December of the same year, with the same zones being designated for possible falling objects. This time a missile is believed to have flown over an area near the Sakishima Islands. And in February 2016, North Korea once more announced that it would launch a satellite. It then fired what experts say was a missile that followed a similar route to the one just over three years earlier. Japan's Defense Ministry said the first and second missiles were either Taepodong-2 long-range ballistic missiles or derivatives. It says the third and fourth were believed to be the advanced versions of the Taepodong-2. The ministry also says the third and fourth launches saw some sort of object put into orbit around the Earth. But ministry sources said they have not confirmed any regular communication between those objects and the ground. The ministry says none of the objects are believed to be functioning as satellites. It says the launch was aimed at improving long-range ballistic missile technology. In July 2017, North Korea launched an intercontinental ballistic missile with a range of more than 5,500 kilometers for the first time. Since then, North Korea had fired missiles numerous times. Experts say 13 of the launches either were or may have been of ICBMs. Some Japanese Defense Ministry officials suggested that North Korea may actually launch a satellite this time. Rockets for launching satellites and ballistic missiles have the same basic structure. The only difference is the object at the tip that determines their purpose. A senior official of Japan's Defense Ministry says "North Korea used to improve its missile technology using satellite launches as cover, but it has recently been firing missiles without that pretext. If the country's missile technology has improved sufficiently, it may really be trying to put a military reconnaissance satellite into orbit around the Earth this time." Another senior Defense Ministry official said North Korea stated two years ago that its defense program included a goal of possessing military reconnaissance satellites. The official said it is believed that North Korea was moving closer to the operation of satellites rather than improving missile technology. The satellite seems to be capable of creating only low resolution images which will be difficult to interpret in the case of rain or darkness. The regime also lacks expertise and infrastructure to analyze the received data. Plus, more than one satellite is needed to create a comprehensive image of a target. That said, experts say this launch could pave the way for more to come at which point the North could expand its data analysis and advance the capability of its satellites. North Korea's state media KCNA, citing high-ranking military official Ri Pyong-chol, reported 30 May 2023 that the regime was planning to launch a military spy satellite as soon as June. This was the first time that the North had revealed any sort of timeline for the satellite launch. According to the report, Ri ---the vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Workers' Party --said the military reconnaissance satellite would be launched to track, monitor, and determine in real-time the military actions of Washington and its allies. He also took time to point at the latest joint live-fire exercises by Seoul and Washington, which are set to continue through mid-June. The news of the imminent spy satellite launch drew contrasting responses from world powers. The U.S. State Department denounced North Korea's threats, warning that the regime will be held accountable for its actions. It says an actual launch using long-range ballistic missile technology is a violation of the UN Security Council's resolutions. South Korea also says the spy satellite launch will be a breach of resolutions, and that it is working closely with U.S. intelligence authorities for any acts of provocation from Pyongyang. "South Korea and the U.S. intelligence authorities are in close cooperation in monitoring related movements and a possible provocation by North Korea using the so-called satellite." Japan, which was first to hear the news from North Korea on Monday, stressed that the plan threatens Tokyo's security, and warned of corresponding actions like interception if the satellite invades Japanese territory, waters, or airspace. "North Korea launching a ballistic missile purporting to be a satellite is a serious provocation to our country's security." The Japanese government said North Korea had notified Japan's Coast Guard of its plan to launch what it calls an artificial satellite sometime between May 31 and June 11. Japan's government suspected that Pyongyang plans to launch a ballistic missile under the pretext of putting a satellite into orbit. The Japanese government called it a violation of UN Security Council resolutions that ban North Korea from conducting any launches using ballistic missile technology, and urged Pyongyang to exercise self-restraint. Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has instructed relevant ministries and agencies to gather and analyze intelligence. He said Japan will work closely with the United States and South Korea, and strongly urge Pyongyang not to carry out the launch. Kishida has told government agencies to take all possible measures to prepare for any eventuality. He told reporters that although Pyongyang claims it is planning to send a satellite up, any launch using ballistic missile technology violates UN Security Council resolutions. He said it is a grave issue concerning the safety of people in Japan. Meanwhile, North Korea's biggest ally China reiterated its previous stance on the importance of carrying out meaningful and balanced conversations. "The situation on the Korean Peninsula has come to where it is for a reason. We hope that all parties concerned will face the issue head-on, stick to the direction of a political settlement, and address their legitimate concerns in a balanced manner through meaningful dialogue." China, however, did not respond to whether the satellite launch is a violation of the UN Security Council's resolutions. In a statement published in the state-run Korean Central News Agency, Ri Pyong Chol, the vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Korean Workers' Party, said the satellite would counter various activities by United States and South Korean forces, including a plan to deploy an American nuclear submarine to South Korean waters for the first time in 40 years. The satellite would be indispensable to tracking, monitoring, discriminating, controlling and coping with in advance [or] in real time, the dangerous military acts of the U.S. and its vassal forces, openly revealing their reckless ambition for aggression as time passes by, and strengthening the military preparedness of the armed forces of the DPRK, Ri wrote, using a acronym for the countrys official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. Experts doubted how useful a spy satellite would be for North Korea. I think the DPRK track record in space is a little too patchy to develop a cohesive narrative, or to tell if this new satellite is more than normal incremental progress, said Benjamin Silverstein, an analyst for the Carnegie Space Project at the Washington-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, speaking before the launch occurred. So far, they have only demonstrated the ability to put small payloads in low Earth orbit". A singule satellite in a low-Earth orbit would not be very effective, Markus Schiller, Founder and Director of ST Analytics GmbH in Munich, told RFA. One ground station would be enough to receive data, however, only when the satellite is in direct sight of the ground station, which - depending on the exact orbit - could be just a few minutes every week, thus limiting the amount of data that could be downloaded as well as its up-to-dateness, said Schiller. Though analysts have said that the satellite North Korea was planning to launch was no better than commercial imagery satellites, it would still have been useful to Pyongyang, said Jacob Bogle, curator of the AccessDPRK.com website, which analyzes satellite imagery of North Korea. Even attaining the same image resolution as commercial satellite companies use would provide North Korea with a substantial boost in their surveillance and intelligence gathering capabilities, he said. One motivation is the North's competitive spirit against the South. North Korea desperately wants to be ahead of South Korea when it comes to satellite launch capability and South Korea just put a seven satellites in into orbit on 25 May 2023. But at the core of Pyongyang's planning is the military component. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Brazilian President Calls for Creation of Common Currency for South American Trade Sputnik News 20230530 RIO DE JANEIRO/BUENOS AIRES (Sputnik) - Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Tuesday put forward a proposition to create a common currency for trade between the South American states during his speech at the regional leaders' summit. "[I propose] creating a common credit in trade, thus reducing dependence on extra-regional currencies," he said at the South American summit in Brasilia. On Monday, Lula commented on efforts to reduce reliance on the US dollar during his meeting with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The Brazilian president said that South America functioning as a single economic block is the only way to effectively deal with problems and take a stronger stance at negotiations. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on May 30, 2023 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China CCTV: Tensions in Kosovo and Metohija Serbia escalated recently. It was reported that on May 29, NATO-led Kosovo Force and Kosovo police used violence to drive away Serb protesters, leaving dozens injured. Do you have any comment? Mao Ning: China is following closely the developments. We support Serbia's effort to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity, oppose unilateral actions by the temporary institutions in Pristina and call on it to perform its duty of establishing an association/community of Serb majority municipalities. We urge NATO to respect relevant country's sovereignty and territorial integrity and truly contribute to peace in the region. China Daily: On May 26, about 800 Al-Shabaab militants attacked a military base in Buulo Mareer, Somali, and they exchanged fire with the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni and Uganda's military immediately condemned the terrorist attack and said there will be an investigation into the attack. The US, the EU and TArkiye also condemned the terrorist attack and stressed that they will as always support the African Union-led Somali peace process. Do you have any comment? Mao Ning: Uganda has actively participated in the peace and security affairs of the Horn of Africa and has been the largest troop-contributing country for the African Union peacekeeping force since 2007. China highly commends that. Terrorism is the common enemy of humanity. We strongly condemn the terrorist attack on the military base in Buulo Mareer, Somalia, and will continue to firmly support the Somalia peace process and regional countries' effort to uphold peace and security. We express our deepest sympathies to the Uganda government, soldiers attacked and their families. Reuters: Our question is on reports saying that US Pentagon said China has declined its request for a meeting between the US Defense Secretary and China's Defense Minister in Singapore. Some security analysts are also saying that US sanctions against the Chinese Defense Minister could be the reason why. Can the ministry confirm whether China declined the meeting and the reason for it? Mao Ning: The US is clear about the reason why China-US military dialogue faces difficulties. The US should earnestly respect China's sovereignty, security and interest concerns, immediately correct wrong practice, show sincerity and create necessary atmosphere and conditions for dialogue and communication between Chinese and US militaries. Beijing Daily: May 29, 2023 was the 21st International Day of UN Peacekeepers. Could you talk about China's participation in UN peacekeeping missions? Mao Ning: UN peacekeeping missions are important means to advance international peace and security. Over the past seven decades or so, the UN has conducted over 70 missions, rallying more than one million peacekeepers under the UN flag and making outstanding contributions to safeguarding and restoring regional peace and assisting in the resolution of regional conflicts. The Blue Helmets have become a symbol of peace and hope, winning wide acclaim from the international community. In 1990, China sent military observers to the UN, which marked the beginning of its participation in UN peacekeeping operations (UNPKOs). In 1992, China dispatched its first formed military unit of Blue Helmets to participate in UNPKOs. Over the past three decadesaandamore, China has sent over 50,000 peacekeepers to participate in UNPKOs in more than 20 countries and regions. A total of 25 Chinese peacekeepers have made the ultimate sacrifice. China is the second largest contributor to UN peacekeeping assessments and the largest troop contributor to peacekeeping operations among the five permanent members of the Security Council. As we speak, more than 2,200 Chinese officers are working in eight peacekeeping mission areas. Chinese Blue Helmets have become a vital force in the UN's peacekeeping efforts. Chinese peacekeepers adhere to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, act in strict accordance with their mandate, and faithfully fulfill peacekeeping missions, making important contributions to safeguarding world peace and promoting common development. Against complex and severe international security situation, the role and significance of UNPKOs have become more prominent. China will continue to work in close cooperation with the international community to increase the efficacy and efficiency of UNPKOs so that they can play a bigger role in safeguarding international peace and security.a Bloomberg: You said that the US is clear on the reasons for there being no military-to-military discussions. Does that mean you are confirming that the Chinese side has told the US that the reason that there is no meeting plan is because the Chinese Defense Minister is sanctioned? Mao Ning: As I answered just now, the US is clear about the reason behind difficulties facing China-US military dialogue. The US should show sincerity, take concrete actions and create necessary conditions for dialogue and communication between the two militaries. TASS: Reuters reported that Elon Musk, the CEO of the US electric-vehicle maker Tesla, is expected to visit China this week and meet with Chinese government officials. What's the foreign ministry's comment? Mao Ning: China always welcomes business figures from all countries, including Mr. Musk, to visit China for a deeper understanding of the country and mutually beneficial cooperation. China is firmly committed to advancing high-level opening up and fostering a market-oriented, law-based and internationalized business environment. We welcome foreign companies to invest and do business in China, explore the Chinese market and share in development opportunities. AFP: Malaysian authorities say they are questioning the crew of a Chinese ship suspected of looting two World War Two shipwrecks in Malaysian waters. Is the foreign ministry aware of this case and do you have any information you can share with us? Mao Ning: We have noted that. The Chinese Embassy in Malaysia is in close communication with Malaysia to learn relevant information and ask the Malaysian side to handle the case justly in accordance with the law, earnestly protect the security and lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens and report the progress of the investigation in a timely manner. Reuters: Our question is also about Tesla's Elon Musk in China. We reported that he has arrived in Beijing. We would like to ask if he will be meeting senior Chinese officials in Beijing? If he is, who will he be meeting and what will they be discussing? Mao Ning: We will release timely information. Please stay tuned. Bloomberg: Taiwan's vice president Lai Ching-te said that the Chinese leader is the head of state he would most like to have dinner with. He said and I quote, "If I had the opportunity to have dinner with him, I would urge him to chill out a little and not put everyone under so much pressure. People's wellbeing is the most important thing and peace benefits everyone." Do you have any comment about the comments from vice president Lai? Mao Ning: Taiwan is part of China and does not have the so-called "vice president". This is not about foreign affairs and I have no comment. If the DPP authorities really care about peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, the key lies in upholding the one-China principle. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China rejects US call for meeting between defense chiefs, as tensions rise between two countries Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 2:46 AM China has rejected a request by the United States for a meeting between the two countries' defense chiefs, as tensions continue to rise between Beijing and Washington. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, China's Monday decision was apparently over Beijing's ire at Washington over the latter's sanctions against the Chinese defense minister. The Pentagon had asked for the meeting to take place on the sidelines of an annual security forum in Singapore, which is due this weekend. "Overnight, the PRC (the People's Republic of China) informed the US that they have declined our early May invitation for [Defense] Secretary [Lloyd] Austin to meet with PRC Minister of National Defense Li Shangfu in Singapore this week," the Pentagon said in a statement to the Journal. The new development came after on Thursday, the US military expressed frustration for being repeatedly snubbed by Chinese officials in its efforts to make such official contact possible. US Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Ely Ratner complained that the Pentagon's attempts to reach out to China's military in recent months have been either rejected or ignored, after Beijing vowed to halt dialogue with Washington over recent sanctions on its top defense official. Earlier this month, Beijing notified Washington that "there is little chance" of Li's meeting with his American counterpart in Singapore due to sanctions placed on him over his alleged involvement in the purchase of Russian advanced weapons. Beijing further declared last week that it saw no reason to keep talking with Washington as long as the US pursued a wholly disingenuous policy. "Where is the sincerity and sense of dialogue, when the US side talks about the need to maintain contacts only to use them as a means to put pressure on China and hamstring our country," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, said at a press briefing last Monday. She also demanded that Washington "immediately lift sanctions" against Beijing, adding, "It is necessary to create a favorable atmosphere and favorable conditions for dialogue and contact." Tensions have been rising between the two countries over a visit last year to the Chinese Taipei by then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. China described the visit as a provocative move and a violation of the internationally accepted "One China" principle, which sought to incite secessionist groups there. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hui Muslims and police clash in China's Yunnan over mosque dome demolition Destruction is part of "sinicization" of religion under Xi By Gu Ting for RFA Mandarin 2023.05.30 -- Police in the southwestern Chinese province of Yunnan have detained more than 30 people following clashes over the weekend between hundreds of armed police and Hui Muslims trying to prevent the demolition of a dome on a major mosque. Authorities in the mostly Muslim town of Nagu started arresting people for public order violations after clashes on Saturday, when a government demolition team toppled the minarets and dome roof of the historic Najiaying Mosque. It is part of the "sinicization" of religion under President Xi Jinping that ushered in a nationwide crackdown on Muslim, Christian and Tibetan Buddhist religious activities and venues in 2017. The mosque, run by Hui Muslims, had recently expanded its minarets and dome, a move that was ruled illegal by a local court, al-Jazeera reported, amid concerns that further clashes look likely when authorities move to demolish a dome in nearby Shadian on Friday. Social media footage posted by Twitter user Ismail Ma showed hundreds of police in full riot gear forming a blockade outside the mosque gate on Saturday. They prevented members of the public from entering, with some members of the crowd trying to push through the phalanx of officers and throwing what appeared to be paving slabs at police amid angry shouting. In another clip, a crowd faces off with ranks of riot police in a city street, shouting "Allahu Akbar," according to Ma. "According to the live video obtained so far, there are a lot of plainclothes policemen mingling among the people," Ma tweeted. "There are non-local people around who aren't Muslims, and whose accents aren't local, so watch out for ... plotting and framing." An officer who answered the phone at the Nagu county police department declined to comment when contacted by Radio Free Asia on Monday. "I don't know about this - you need to wait for an official announcement," the officer said. 'Disrupting social order' On Sunday, the Tonghai county prosecutor and police issued a joint statement calling on anyone involved in the clashes to turn themselves in, saying they had "seriously disrupted social order." Anyone who does so by June 6 and gives a truthful confession will be dealt with more leniently, the statement said, calling on others to inform on their fellow protesters to get a lighter sentence. A Hui Muslim resident of Yunnan who gave only the surname Yang said the authorities have been demolishing mosque domes across the region in recent years, pointing to the "sinicization" program under Xi. "Islam in China is to be de-Arabized," Yang said. "This is totally evil - there's no freedom of religion at all." Wlodek Cieciura, assistant professor in the department of Sinology, Islam and Muslims in China and the Sinophone World at the University of Warsaw, said via Twitter that the Nanjiaying mosque was "once of the most famous centers of Islamic learning and culture in China." He added that "the situation in Shadian town, some 90 km to the south is said to be even more charged." Cieciura cited a Hui friend as saying that Shadian and Najiaying were "the last bastions of dignity for Chinese Muslims," and "This might be our final stand." Shadian saw a major resistance among Hui Muslims to the Cultural Revolution smashing of religious venues and artifacts under late supreme leader Mao Zedong, suffering a major massacre in 1975, Cieciura said, adding that there are plans to similarly "renovate" the Shadian Mosque on June 2. Targeting churches as well A Christian believer from the eastern province of Anhui who gave only the surname Wang said the "sinicization" program had earlier targeted church crosses around the country in recent years, particularly in the eastern province of Zhejiang. "They've removed pretty much all of the cross from churches now, and now they're moving on to other religions," Wang said. "The removal of domes from mosques is similar to the removal of crosses." "They are moving on to rectify religions other than Christianity," he said. In a May 27 tweet, Ciecura cited comments from Muslims on social media as "declaring their readiness to defend the mosques to the end." The Shadian resistance movement erupted in 1964 in response to nationwide political witch hunts targeting religious believers, and continued until at least 1975, culminating in the massacre of around 1,600 Muslims in an orgy of violence that the government blamed on disgraced former premier Lin Biao, and later on the Gang of Four. The atheist Chinese Communist Party regards religious beliefs as a dangerous foreign import that could destabilize the regime, and deploys an army of "religious affairs" officials to micromanage and suppress faith organizations around the country. Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster. 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China plans 6-nation drills with Southeast Asian countries Analysts say Aman Youyi-2023 will be smaller than similar U.S. exercises. By RFA Staff 2023.05.30 -- China is planning a large six-nation military exercise later this year to boost engagement and build mutual confidence with Southeast Asian partners, the Chinese military has said. The expanded Aman Youyi-2023 (Peace and Friendship -2023) drills, however, would "remain a far cry from the more established slate of engagements by the U.S." in the region, said an analyst. Military delegations from China, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam had an initial planning conference for Exercise Aman Youyi-2023 in Guangzhou last week, said the Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) on microblogging site Weibo. Delegates from the six countries "reached consensus" on several topics including the theme, date, location, preset background and approaches of the exercise, said the Command. The announcement on Weibo didn't come with a date but sources told RFA the exercise would be held this November. This will be the first time Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia take part together in combined drills with China. The official media in Vietnam, which has territorial disputes with China in the South China Sea, have not mentioned the event. China's Global Times quoted an analyst as saying that with more Southeast Asian members participating, "the Aman Youyi-2023 exercise will serve as a stabilizer for regional security." Zhuo Hua, an international affairs expert at the School of International Relations and Diplomacy of Beijing Foreign Studies University, said it proved that "more countries come to understand and agree with China's views in cooperative, comprehensive and sustainable security." U.S.-China rivalry Another analyst, Collin Koh from the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, said that "China has always wanted to have military engagements in Southeast Asia that are on par with those by the U.S." However, "it remains a relatively new player in the field of defense diplomacy," Koh told RFA. "The scale and depth of such engagements remain a far cry from the more established slate of engagements by the U.S.," he added. China and Laos have just completed a joint military exercise called Friendship Shield 2023 in Laos with a combined force of nearly 1,000 troops. In March, Cambodia and China carried out exercise Golden Dragon 2023 in Cambodia's Kampong Chhnang province. To compare, in April more than 17,600 members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military took part in Balikatan 2023, an annual bilateral exercise between the two allies and the largest iteration of Balikatan to date. A month earlier, a U.S.-led multinational exercise - Cobra Gold 2023 - was held in Thailand with more than 7,000 service members from seven full participating nations and more than 20 other nations attending as observers. And next year, the world's largest international maritime exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) will be held with even more than the 25,000 personnel in the 2022 RIMPAC. "Southeast Asian countries engage in these exercises to demonstrate their willingness to engage China in the defense and security realm, but this also reflects the regional countries' desire to exercise strategic autonomy," Collin Koh said. "I see Aman Youyi as more geopolitically symbolic for some Southeast Asian countries, even if the objective might differ from that of Beijing," the Singapore-based military analyst said. Strengthening bonds The first Aman Youyi joint exercise was held in 2014 between Malaysian armed forces and the PLA but as a tabletop exercise. With a theme of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, it was conducted "successfully" in the Paya Indah Wetlands in Selangor, Malaysia, two years later. The bilateral drills expanded to include Thailand in 2018 but were disrupted by the COVID pandemic in the years after. "Enhancing military cooperation with countries including those in Southeast Asia is an important aspect of China's military diplomacy," the Global Times quoted Song Zhongping, a Chinese military expert, as saying. It is unclear how many military personnel from each country will take part in Aman Youyi-2023 and which drills will be conducted. The recent Laos-China exercise Friendship Shield 2023 included "strikes on armed positions in mountainous and forest areas in order to boost joint operational capabilities in counterterrorism and the safeguarding of borders," according to Chinese state media. Edited by Mike Firn. Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address HKSAR establishes Chief Executive Policy Unit, showing increasing priority of integrating into national development plan Global Times By Chen Qingqing and Bai Yunyi Published: May 31, 2023 01:25 AM The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government announced on Tuesday the establishment of the Chief Executive Policy Unit (CEPU) Expert Group and the appointment of 56 members, with a one-year term of appointment. The CEPU Expert Group comprises members of different backgrounds including high-level experts and scholars from the Chinese mainland, showing the increasing priority of integrating into the national development plan in the HKSAR government's work agenda. The group includes members with backgrounds such as business, finance and academia. To facilitate the work of the group and conduct more focused discussions, it is organized along three broad lines, namely the Economic Advancement Expert Group, Social Development Expert Group and Research Strategy Expert Group, according to the HKSAR government. When John Lee, chief executive of the HKSAR government, announced the establishment of the CEPU in December 2022, he said that it aims to improve Hong Kong's governance, enhance governance capability and governance efficacy. It is also an important step in enhancing the HKSAR government's capabilities in research and advocacy on long-term and strategic issues. The CEPU is expected to make contributions in areas such as the formulation of long-term and strategic policies from a forward-thinking perspective, while keeping abreast of national development, examining international relations and situations, analyzing opportunities and risks and grasping the sentiments of Hong Kong residents. Since the establishment of the CEPU half a year ago, it has been keeping a low profile, some observers said. Among the three broad streams, the largest one is the Research Strategy Expert Group, which includes several scholars well-known in the field of Hong Kong affairs research, such as Zheng Yongnian, Lau Siu-kai and Francis Lui. Notably, scholars like Zheng Yongnian are not locals in Hong Kong but have focused on issues such as the development of the Greater Bay Area for years, and have published views on topics such as Hong Kong's "Second Return." Lau confirmed the establishment of the CEPU Expert Group and his membership with the Global Times on Tuesday. The group is not believed to be full-time and is expected to meet only once or twice a year, Lau said. "The primary goal is to provide the chief executive and his team with broader, deeper, and higher quality research services on Hong Kong governance and to offer research opinions and insights. Whether the group can ultimately be effective depends on how well the Hong Kong government utilizes the talent and research results of the group," he said. Lau served as chief consultant of the Central Policy Group of the HKSAR government from 2002 to 2012. Lau said that the expert group established this time differs in role and operating method from the policy group of that time. He explained that the part-time consultants of the Central Policy Group used to meet every two weeks, focusing more on discussing issues of concern to the HKSAR government. Many members of the Central Policy Group now hold positions in the Legislative Council or government, which differs from the composition of the current expert group. Francis Lui, another member, told the Global Times on Tuesday that the members of the expert group come from different backgrounds and professions, which allows them to view issues from different perspectives. At present, like the mainland, Hong Kong is undergoing major changes, which presents many opportunities but also many challenges, Lui said. As an expert in the economic field, he said he will continue to deeply study the financial security and stability of Hong Kong, especially how Hong Kong, as an international financial center, can resist external risks under the backdrop of China-US confrontation, and how Hong Kong can better participate in the construction of the Greater Bay Area. Currently, although the CEPU Expert Group only has 56 members, Lui believes that the number may increase in the future as they find the best way for the expert group to operate. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese Embassy in US strongly condemns US sanctions on 13 Chinese entities, individuals Global Times By Global Times Published: May 31, 2023 09:52 AM The Chinese Embassy in the US on Wednesday strongly condemned US sanctions on 13 China-based entities and individuals, vowing to do what is necessary to safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies and individuals. On Tuesday, the US Department of the Treasury sanctioned 13 China-based entities and individuals, citing their so-called involvement in the international proliferation of equipment used to produce illicit drugs. "While saying it hopes to resume counter-narcotics cooperation with China on various occasions, the US has again brazenly sanctioned Chinese individuals and entities, which is a serious violation of the lawful rights and interests of the companies and individuals concerned," the Chinese Embassy in the US said in a statement on its website published Wednesday. The pretext of the US fabricated claims this time is that these Chinese entities and individuals are involved in the sale of pill press machines, dye molds, and other equipment to the US and Mexico. However, it is widely known that pill press machines and dye molds are common commodities with legitimate uses and are widely used in normal industrial production. According to common practice across the world, ensuring that imported goods are not used for illicit purposes is not only the basic responsibility of the enterprises, but also the legal obligation of the government of the importing countries, the embassy said. The Chinese government takes a firm stance on counter-narcotics. Guided by a humanitarian spirit, we have worked with the US to help solve its fentanyl abuse. In May 2019, China became the first country in the world to officially schedule fentanyl-related substances as a class, which has played an important role in preventing illicit manufacturing, trafficking and abuse of the substance. The US, however, in disregard of China's goodwill, has used so-called "human rights issue" in Xinjiang to impose sanctions on the Institution of Forensic Science of the Ministry of Public Security and the National Narcotics Laboratory of China. Now the US is imposing new sanctions on Chinese companies and individuals in an attempt to blame China for its own domestic fentanyl problem. This has seriously eroded the foundation for China-US counter-narcotics cooperation, the embassy said. The US itself is the root cause of its drug problem. With 5 percent of the world's population, the US consumes 80 percent of the world's opioids. Yet the US still has not permanently scheduled fentanyl-related substances as a class.aAs China and the rest of the world have strengthened control of fentanyl-related substances, the fentanyl issue in the US has been deteriorating and cutting short even more lives, according to the Chinese embassy. The US needs to engage inaserious reflections on this issue. Instead of working to reduce the demand for drugs at home, strengthen management of prescription drugs and step-up public awareness campaigns about the harm of narcotics, the US has resorted to grossly sanctioning other countries in an attempt to mislead the public and deflect blame for its inaction. This is clear to the American people and the rest of the world, the statement read. "The US sanctions against Chinese companies and citizens will add more obstacles to China-US counter-narcotics cooperation. Such moves hurt others as well as the US itself. If the US truly wants to solve its drug problem, it should respect facts, reflect on itself, correct its wrongdoing, and stop shifting the blame," the embassy stressed. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea botches firing 'space launch vehicle,' South Korean military says Rocket believed to be carrying spy satellite fell into the Yellow Sea after an 'abnormal' flight. By Eugene Whong for RFA 2023.05.30 -- North Korea launched what it called a "space launch vehicle," but after an "abnormal" flight it fell into the Yellow Sea, South Korea's military said. South Korea's Yonhap News reported that Seoul's Joint Chiefs of Staff detected the launch at 6:29 a.m. on Wednesday, local time, from Tongchang-ri on the country's northwestern coast and it fell about 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of South Korea's Eocheong island. The seemingly failed launch came one day after North Korea revealed that it would launch its first military reconnaissance satellite to monitor U.S. and South Korean military activities, including regularly scheduled joint exercises. In a statement published in the state-run Korean Central News Agency, Ri Pyong Chol, the vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission of the ruling Korean Workers' Party, said that the satellite would launch in June, but the launch was on the final day of May. He said it would counter various activities by United States and South Korean forces, including a plan to deploy an American nuclear submarine to South Korean waters for the first time in 40 years. The satellite would be "indispensable to tracking, monitoring, discriminating, controlling and coping with in advance [or] in real time, the dangerous military acts of the U.S. and its vassal forces, openly revealing their reckless ambition for aggression as time passes by, and strengthening the military preparedness of the armed forces of the DPRK," Ri wrote, using a acronym for the country's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The launch occurred about a month after a summit between South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol and U.S. President Joe Biden where the two sides agreed to increase security cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to extended deterrence in response to the North Korean nuclear threat. Radio Free Asia reported two weeks ago that a North Korean spy satellite had passed preliminary testing and was ready to be mounted on a rocket, and that satellite imagery revealed increased activity at the Sohae Satellite Launching Station in the country's northwest. Experts in that report told RFA that they anticipated that a launch would be possible in June or July. Though Ri's statement did not reveal the planned date of launch, Reuters reported Monday that North Korea notified Japan that it would happen between May 31 and June 11. Tokyo said it would shoot down any threatening projectile in its territory, while Seoul and Washington have said the planned launch would violate U.N. resolutions intended to limit Pyongyang's missile capabilities. "Space launch vehicles (SLVs) incorporate technologies that are identical to, and interchangeable with, those used in ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs)," a spokesperson for the U.S. State Department told RFA's Korean Service in an email. "We urge the DPRK to refrain from further unlawful activity and call on Pyongyang to engage in serious and sustained diplomacy," the spokesperson said. 'Too patchy' Though North Korea's regional neighbors may have viewed the launch as a cause for alarm, experts doubted how useful a spy satellite would be for North Korea. "I think the DPRK track record in space is a little too patchy to develop a cohesive narrative, or to tell if this new satellite is more than 'normal' incremental progress," said Benjamin Silverstein, an analyst for the Carnegie Space Project at the Washington-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, speaking before the launch occurred. "So far, they have only demonstrated the ability to put small payloads in low Earth orbit, and I would expect this upcoming launch to continue that trend," he said. Given the flurry of development at the Sohae launch site and advances in rocket technology, Pyongyang could attempt to launch the satellite into a geostationary orbit, he said. While that would be a "big jump in productivity," it wouldn't necessarily offer better surveillance than several low-Earth orbit satellites. A singular satellite in a low-Earth orbit would not be very effective, Markus Schiller, Founder and Director of ST Analytics GmbH in Munich, told RFA. "One ground station would be enough to receive data, however, only when the satellite is in direct sight of the ground station, which - depending on the exact orbit - could be just a few minutes every week, thus limiting the amount of data that could be downloaded as well as its up-to-dateness," said Schiller. Schiller noted that North Korea has failed to launch satellites in 1998, 2009 and April 2012, and successfully launched satellites in December 2012 and February 2016, but the latter two satellites, which remain in orbit, are ineffective because they "tumble," rather than remaining in an optimal orientation needed to send signals to the Earth. Though analysts have said that the satellite North Korea was planning to launch was no better than commercial imagery satellites, it would still have been useful to Pyongyang, said Jacob Bogle, curator of the AccessDPRK.com website, which analyzes satellite imagery of North Korea. "Even attaining the same image resolution as commercial satellite companies use would provide North Korea with a substantial boost in their surveillance and intelligence gathering capabilities," he said. Reporting by Jamin Anderson and Lee Sangmin for RFA Korean. Edited by Malcolm Foster. Updated after the launch occurred. Copyright 1998-2016, 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran's home-made Simorgh aircraft undergoes test flight IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency May 30, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran has successfully conducted flight test for a domestically-developed transit aircraft, the country's defense minister has announced. Brigadier General Mohammadreza Ashtiani made the announcement on Tuesday while addressing a gathering of Defense Ministry officials which was also attended by Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Bagheri. He said that "Simorgh" aircraft is a re-designed and developed version of planes of its generation, adding that it is fully suited to the needs of the civil and military organizations in Iran. Iran's defense minister also added that the experts in the Ministry of Defense and knowledge-based companies in the country have developed the aircraft in a way to adapt to the weather conditions of the country in accordance with international standards. He elaborated on the characteristics of Simorgh aircraft, including its lightness, high carriage capacity, proper radius of flight operations, compatibility with the climatic conditions of the country, ability to land and take off in short runways, as well as agility and speed in providing emergency services, including as air ambulance. 9341**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran-made transport plane makes maiden flight Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 7:32 PM Iran's home-made transport plane Simorgh has made its maiden flight one year after it was unveiled by authorities in the country. The test flight was carried out successfully in an airbase in the central Iranian city of Isfahan on Tuesday in a ceremony attended by the Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Baqeri. The aircraft has been designed and manufactured by Iran Aviation Industries Organization, which is a subsidiary of the Iranian defense ministry. Authorities said the aircraft has been developed to boost Iran's defensive superiority. A report published by the official IRNA news agency described the transport plane as agile, light and quick with a high cargo carriage capacity and features like compatibility with weather conditions of Iran that make it a perfect choice for critical services like medical flights. It said the aircraft will boost the capacity of Iranian ground and navy forces to transport troops or equipment between their bases across the country. "The design and manufacturing of this aircraft ... accelerates Iran's entrance into the (global) club of manufacturers of heavy and super modern aircraft," said defense minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani after the plane made its maiden flight. The aircraft has been named after Simorgh which is a mythical bird in Persian mythology and literature. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Amir-Abdollahian: Iran, Saudi to develop economic and commercial relations Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 5:00 PM The Iranian foreign minister has said that the rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia is not merely "a tactical agreement," adding that both countries have agreed to develop bilateral economic and commercial relations. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian made the remarks in an interview with the French daily newspaper Le Figaro, which was published on Monday, regarding the resumption of relations between the two countries. "In the foreign policy of the current [Iranian] government, relations with our neighbors are a priority," he said, adding that this is why the Islamic Republic held security negotiations for several months in Baghdad and Oman. The Iranian foreign minister went on to say that finally during the visit of the Chinese president to Saudi Arabia, a strong idea was put on the table. The result was Chinese mediation which made it possible to take the decisive step between Tehran and Riyadh, he added. "We do not consider this rapprochement a tactical agreement," he stressed. On March 10, after several days of intensive negotiations hosted by China, Iran, and Saudi Arabia agreed to restore diplomatic ties and reopen embassies seven years after their relations were severed. In a joint statement after signing the agreement, Tehran and Riyadh highlighted the need to respect each others' national sovereignty and refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of one another. They agreed to implement a security cooperation agreement signed in April 2001 and another accord reached in May 1998 to boost economic, commercial, investment, technical, scientific, cultural, sports, and youth affairs cooperation. Elsewhere in his remarks, Amir-Abdollahian noted that the Saudi government has made investment in Iran a priority. "I talked about economic issues during my recent meeting with my Saudi counterpart," the top diplomat said, adding, "We both agreed to develop our economic and commercial relations in the months and years to come." He added that the Saudi government has now put the realization of economic projects a priority. Back in April, Iran and Saudi Arabia planned to form a joint chamber of commerce to boost bilateral trade nearly a month after they reached an agreement to restore their diplomatic relations. Keyvan Kashefi, a member of the presiding board of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ICCIMA), said at the time that Tehran and Riyadh have major potential to boost their trade exchanges in the fields of oil, gas and petrochemicals. He said the annual trade between the two countries could easily reach up to $3 billion within the next few years. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran pursues neighborliness policy, seeks deeper regional ties: FM Amir-Abdollahian Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 10:10 AM Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian says the Raeisi administration is seriously pursuing its good neighborliness policy and seeks to cement ties with the states in the region. "The neighborhood policy of the 13th administration is being carried out seriously based on the wise guidelines of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution [Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei] and the promotion and strengthening of relations with the neighboring and regional countries," Amir-Abdollahian said in a post on his Twitter account on Tuesday. The recent visit by Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said to Tehran was an important, major step to consolidate strategic cooperation between the two countries, he added. Heading a high-ranking politico-economic delegation, the Omani Sultan began his two-day visit to Tehran on Sunday at the invitation of Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi. During his stay in Tehran, Sultan Haitham met with Ayatollah Khamenei and President Raeisi while senior Iranian and Omani delegations also held political and economic discussions. In the meeting with the Omani Sultan on Monday, Ayatollah Khamenei lauded the Raeisi administration's policy of improving ties with regional nations and said Tehran and Muscat will benefit from closer bilateral cooperation. The Leader stated, "Increasing Iran-Oman cooperation is significant because the two countries share the very important Strait of Hormuz waterway." On Sunday, Iranian and Omani officials signed four documents to improve cooperation in the economy, energy and investment fields as well as free zones. At a press conference with his Omani counterpart, the Iranian foreign minister said, in addition to the four documents, leaders of Iran and Oman seek to finalize a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement in the near future. Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi, in turn, emphasized that Sultan Haitham's visit to Iran marks a new phase in bilateral relations, and signifies the continuation and depth of ties between the two allies. Oman has long been an interlocutor in interactions between the West and Iran. The country has mediated the release of several foreign citizens and dual nationals. Meanwhile, speaking at a meeting with a number of Iranian lawmakers and diplomats, Amir-Abdollahian once again reiterated the administration's "balanced foreign policy". "We do cooperate with the countries in the world but look to the neighbors is a priority," the top Iranian diplomat said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran, IAEA clear air on agency's unfounded claims about nuclear sites: Report Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 8:57 AM Iran and the UN nuclear watchdog have resolved issues arising from false, unproven allegations against Tehran's peaceful nuclear program, according to a report. During the recent technical negotiations between the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the case of one of the alleged "undetected" sites raised by the agency (known as Abadeh) has been closed, Mehr news agency reported on Tuesday. This brings the number of cases concerning the alleged "undetected" sites claimed by the IAEA to two, it added. The report also said the IAEA's claims about uranium particles with 83.7 purity found at the undeclared nuclear sites in Iran have been settled. Iran and the IAEA are in a dispute triggered by the agency's Israeli-influenced accusations, which were leveled against Tehran's peaceful nuclear activities. The IAEA insisted on investigating what it claims to be "uranium traces" found at "undeclared nuclear sites" in Iran. The issue has emerged as a key sticking point in talks aimed at salvaging the 2015 nuclear deal, which remains stalled since last August. Iran has dismissed the probe as "politically motivated." Last September, the head of the AEOI, Mohammad Eslami, strongly rejected all accusations, including the UN nuclear watchdog's allegations, about the existence of undeclared nuclear activities or material in Iran. "There are no undeclared nuclear activities or material in Iran. All accusations are merely based on fake and incorrect information provided by the usurping regime of Israel," he said. In a meeting with the IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi in Tehran early in March, Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi said Tehran expects the IAEA to adopt a "professional and fair" approach to its nuclear energy program and refrain from being affected by certain powers which are pursuing their own specific goals. Back in February, the AEOI spokesman, Behrouz Kamalvandi told Press TV that the IAEA publicizes confidential reports about Iran's nuclear activities even before the investigations are complete in order to prepare the ground for fabrications against the country's peaceful nuclear program. He criticized the IAEA for allowing the correspondence between Tehran and the agency to leak to the press. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran And Afghanistan's Taliban Clash As Water Dispute Boils Over By Michael Scollon May 30, 2023 Water has exposed cracks in the Taliban's fragile relationship with Tehran, with both sides exchanging pointed barbs over scarce supplies before coming to deadly blows along the Afghan-Iranian border. Tensions remain high following the deaths of troops from both sides on May 27, with Taliban and Iranian officials digging in on their positions with increased military activity and fresh warnings. But while disputes over water security are expected to intensify between the two drought-stricken countries, both sides appear to be keeping the door open for dialogue on the issue while boosting cooperation in other areas of mutual concern. The deadly firefight took place across the shared border between southeastern Iran and southwestern Afghanistan, with each side accusing the other of firing first. Social media footage showed Taliban heavy weaponry streaming to the border in the Kang district of Nimroz Province, where officials said one Taliban border guard was killed and several people were wounded after an exchange of heavy gunfire. Iranian media, meanwhile, said up to three Iranian border guards were killed and several people wounded in its southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan Province, where Iran has worked to fortify its border as tensions over water supplies rose over the past two weeks. Following the incident, the Taliban has continued to push back on Iran's claim that it is not honoring a water treaty ironed out by the two sides in 1973. "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan considers dialogue to be a reasonable way for any problem," Taliban Defense Ministry spokesman Enayatullah Khawarazmi said in a statement on May 28, referring to the official name of the Taliban's unrecognized government. "Making excuses for war and negative actions is not in the interest of any of the parties." Iran has continued its harder line, with national police commander Brigadier-General Ahmadreza Radan saying the same day that "the border forces of the Islamic republic of Iran will decisively respond to any border trespassing and aggression, and the current authorities of Afghanistan must be held accountable for their unmeasured and contrary actions to international principles." But Iranian officials, too, have expressed the need for a diplomatic solution, with high-ranking security official Mohammad Ismail Kothari describing the dispute as "fighting between children of the same house" while rejecting that Tehran would resort to the "military option." Big Dam Issues Water is a precious commodity in both southwestern Afghanistan, one of the country's most productive agricultural areas, and in southeastern Iran, one of several arid areas of the country where water scarcity has fueled public protests. But with Afghanistan in control of upriver water sources that feed low-lying wetlands and lakes in Iran's southeast, the Taliban finds itself with a rare tool for leverage in its relationship with Tehran. The problem -- or the solution, depending on which side you consider -- stems from the construction of major dam projects in Afghanistan that in combination with increased drought and other factors have restricted the flow of water to the Sistan Basin. The border-straddling basin depends on perennial flooding to fill what used to be a vast wildlife oasis and was home to the massive Hamun Lake, which now consists of three smaller seasonal lakes -- Hamun-e Helmand in Iran and Hamun-e Sabari and Hamun-e Puzak in both Afghanistan and Iran. The longstanding issue of replenishing the basin with water came to the forefront earlier this month following comments by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and President Ebrahim Raisi. Amir-Abdollahian, in a call with his Taliban counterpart, Amir Khan Muttaqi, demanded the Afghan authorities open the gates of the inland Kajaki Dam that pools water from the Helmand River "so both the people of Afghanistan and Iran can be hydrated." Shortly afterward, Raisi upped the ante during a visit to Sistan-Baluchistan on May 18 by warning the "rulers of Afghanistan to immediately give the people of Sistan-Baluchistan their water rights." He added that the Taliban should take his words "seriously" and not say "they were not told." The Taliban has consistently denied the accusation that it was not complying with the 1973 treaty and said that even if the Kajaki Dam were opened there would not be enough water to reach Iran. But just two days after Raisi's threats, the Taliban appeared to twist the knife by inaugurating a new irrigation project that involved completing the construction of the Bakhshabad Dam on the Farah River, which feeds the Sistan Basin from the north. Contentious Water Treaty According to the 1973 treaty, Afghanistan is committed to sharing water from the Helmand River with Iran at the rate of 26 cubic meters of water per second, or 850 million cubic meters per year. But the accord also allows for less water to be delivered in cases of low water levels, which have been affected by persistent drought and the construction of new dams in Afghanistan, including the Kamal Khan Dam on the Helmand River that was completed in 2021 shortly before the Taliban seized power in Kabul. The Taliban's deputy prime minister for economic affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, said on May 22 that Kabul was "committed to the water treaty of 1973 but the drought that exists in Afghanistan and region should not be ignored." "The pain of the people of Sistan-Baluchistan is our pain," he added. "Our hearts melt for them as much as they melt for the people of Afghanistan, but we also suffer from a shortage of water." Cooperation on the water issue was previously seen as a sign of deepening ties between Afghanistan's Sunni Taliban rulers and Shi'a-majority Iran. In January 2022, the Taliban released water from the Kamal Khan Dam on the Helmand River in Nimroz Province into the Hamun Lake. While their sectarian differences once made them enemies, their common interests in opposing Afghanistan's Western-backed government and U.S.-led forces in Afghanistan over the past two decades brought them closer. Since the Taliban returned to power, the militant group has sought to build economic and security ties with Tehran. While Iran has not recognized the Taliban-led government, it has sought to work with the group on the issues of Afghan refugees in Iran and cross-border drug trafficking. In February, Iran formally handed over the Afghan Embassy in Tehran to the Taliban. Afghanistan's and Iran's water crises require both countries to show a strong hand on the issue of water supplies, both for domestic consumption and to protect their national interests. But experts suggest the benefits of cooperation outweigh an escalation of the conflict. "Neither country at this point in time needs a really hostile border," Marvin Weinbaum, director of Afghanistan and Pakistan studies at the Middle East Institute think tank in Washington, told RFE/RL. "Economically it is an issue for both countries -- there would be no agricultural potential in Helmand Province without the water furnished by the dam. And very little of it gets into Iran. And southeast Iran is as dry as any place on the planet." Weinbaum said neither the Taliban nor Tehran is going to exhibit weakness on the issue of short-term water shortages. "As the climate heats up, this is only going to grow more acute," he said. But for both countries, Weinbaum said, "economic ties are really what matters the most," along with cooperating on other issues of mutual concern such as preventing the Islamic State extremist group from expanding its foothold in the region. Ironically, just days after Raisi's threats and the inauguration of a new dam project in Afghanistan, the Taliban's Defense Ministry announced it had reached a new agreement on cooperating with Iran on defense and border issues. And on the day of the firefight that left border guards dead on both sides, officials had met earlier to discuss the water dispute. After the deadly incident, Iranian and Taliban officials held another meeting to investigate the cause of the "tensions." Path To Resolution The construction of dams -- which both Iran and Afghanistan engage heavily in -- and their downstream impact stand out among the causes to discuss. "What really triggers these disputes?" asked Weinbaum. "The intensification of them is obviously building dams, which represent simply a lower flow than they've been accustomed to and are not happy with." Other observers suggest the decades-old water-sharing agreement that Iran and the Taliban accuse each other of failing to adhere to holds the answer to resolving the dispute. The 1973 treaty does allow for the delivery of water from the Afghan side to be lower than the agreed-upon levels under certain circumstances, which would appear to include the drought and climate change that the Taliban has said have limited water supplies. It also commits the two countries to follow a set course "in the event that a difference should develop in the interpretation" of the provisions set out in the treaty: diplomatic negotiations, turning to the "good offices" of a third party to help mediate a solution, and in the event neither step works, arbitration. With additional reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Farda and Radio Azadi Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-taliban- water-dispute-/32435442.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 2 Iranian Female Journalists Who Reported on Mahsa Amini's Death Go on Trial By VOA Persian Service May 30, 2023 Two jailed female Iranian journalists, who helped break the story of the case of a 22-year-old woman who died in police custody last September, have gone on trial in Iran. Elaheh Mohammadi, with the Ham Mihan newspaper, published a story about Mahsa Amini's funeral. Her trial began Monday behind closed doors in a Revolutionary Court. Her lawyer, Shahab Mirlohi, told Ham Mihan that despite attending the hearing on Monday, there was a one-hour delay, and the lawyers were not given a chance to defend or express anything throughout the entire session. Mirlohi said the case should be heard in a competent criminal court with a jury present and in a public setting. He said he believes that the Revolutionary Court lacks the jurisdiction necessary to hear this case, which primarily concerns press activities and opinions expressed by Mohammadi. Also facing trial in Iran is Niloufar Hamedi, of the Sharq newspaper, who was the first to report on the death of Mahsa Amini in the custody of morality police. The death of Amini, who was accused of wearing her headscarf too loosely, sparked nationwide anti-government protests. Hamedi's trial began Tuesday, also behind closed doors. Iranian officials say the two journalists had been indicted on charges of collaborating with the United States, acting against national security, and creating "propaganda against the system." Last week, a U.S. State Department spokesman rejected allegations the journalists had been collaborating with the United States. "So, I will say with respect to that specific question, we reject those charges. They are obviously not true. And I will note that over the course of the protests, Iranian authorities have repeatedly violated Iranians' human rights, punished them for executing their essential freedoms," spokesman Matthew Miller said at a press briefing, in response to a question from VOA. "Sham trials and executions have been key components of the regime's attempt to suppress any form of dissent." On May 3, the two reporters and the imprisoned Iranian human rights activist Narges Mohammadi were awarded the 2023 Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize by the United Nations' cultural agency, UNESCO. Hamedi and Mohammadi were also joint winners of the 2023 International Press Freedom Award by Canadian Journalists for Free Expression and Harvard University's 2023 Louis M. Lyons Award for Conscience and Integrity in Journalism. They were named two of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2023. According to the World Press Freedom Index 2023 issued by Reporters Without Borders on May 3 to coincide with World Press Freedom Day, Iran is considered one of the world's worst countries for press freedom. It has been listed at No. 177 out of 180 nations ranked in worldwide assessments of press freedoms followed by Vietnam, China, and North Korea. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Reports: Iran Resolves IAEA Concerns About Nuclear Site By VOA News May 30, 2023 Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency have resolved questions about one of three sites where inspectors found previously undeclared nuclear material, Iranian state media said Tuesday. The IAEA has for years sought answers from Iran about what inspectors said was the presence of "uranium particles of anthropogenic origin." A series of meetings, including a March visit to Tehran by IAEA chief Rafael Grossi brought pledges by Iran to cooperate with the probe. Iranian state media said Tuesday that the two sides had resolved the case of the Marivan site, located in Fars province. IAEA reports said an analysis of samples taken from the site in 2020 indicated the presence of uranium particles. The IAEA said it had information that in 2003 Iran planned to use and store nuclear material at the site for explosive testing. Iran has denied allegations that it worked to develop nuclear weapons. Fears of an Iranian weapons program prompted the 2015 agreement Iran signed with Britain, China, France, Russia, the United States and Germany that restricted the country's nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. The United States withdrew from the deal in 2018 due to what then-President Donald Trump said was terms that were too favorable to Iran. Iran responded by stepping away from its commitments under the deal, including enriching uranium to higher levels, employing more advanced centrifuges and holding larger stockpiles of enriched uranium. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Future of Missile Defense Lies in Lasers, Beams, Not in Warheads - Israeli Official Sputnik News 20230530 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - The future of missile defense lies in laser and other beam systems and not in kinetic, or missile-delivered, physical interception warheads, Israel Missile Defense Organization (IMDO) Director Moshe Patel said on Tuesday. "The future will be based on directed energy," Patel told a meeting at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. "Directed energy is the direction that [we] all need to invest in." Patel explained that such development will be dictated by considerations of volume capabilities of energy as opposed to the much more limited and costly kinetically-delivered defense systems. "We need to go into new technologies elsewhere," Patel said. Israel was also preparing development systems to protect its population centers against attack by hypersonic weapon-delivered warheads, Patel also said. Whatever the threat, Israel's missile defense systems would be ready, Patel added. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Humanitarian groups say storm aid still not reaching parts of Myanmar's Rakhine state Many are still living under tarps more than 2 weeks after Cyclone Mocha destroyed homes. By RFA Burmese 2023.05.30 -- More than two weeks after Cyclone Mocha damaged much of Myanmar's Rakhine state, many people still haven't received aid, and humanitarian groups are asking the military junta to relax restrictions on road transport so that food and supplies can reach affected areas. Junta soldiers have set up security gates along the Yangon-Sittwe highway to block traffic between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. Donor organizations and humanitarian groups have been sending supplies to Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine, said Khaing Kaung San, secretary of the Sittwe-based Wan Lark Foundation. "It needs to be open 24 hours a day," Khaing Kaung San told Radio Free Asia. "If the transport has to pause for a night due to the military's restriction of traffic, the relief supplies cannot reach the affected areas in time." In northern Rakhine, more than 90 percent of houses and buildings were damaged by the May 14 storm. A resident of Rathedaung township who refused to be named told RFA that his village hasn't received any assistance and villagers have been living under tarpaulin sheets. "I can't describe how much we have lost. We don't even have a place to stay in our village," the resident said. "We have to stay in the rain even at night. We have to stay under a tarpaulin sheet while it's raining. But some people here don't even have the tarpaulins." Several Rakhine humanitarian organizations issued a joint statement on Monday urging junta authorities to speed up relief efforts and not to restrict the work of civil society groups. Even though the World Food Program, the International Committee of the Red Cross and other international humanitarian organizations have sent aid, there are still many areas in Rakhine that haven't received any help, the organizations said. The military council has been making daily announcements through state media about aid shipments to Rakhine. Junta spokesman Hla Thein didn't answer on Tuesday when RFA called to get a response to the Rakhine civil society statement. 'I can't keep up' Because construction materials such as tin roof sheets and nails have been hard to find, only about 10 percent of homes damaged by the storm have been repaired, said Soe Lwin, an official of the Rakhine-based Lin Yaung Chi aid association. "Electric cables and poles are still lying around there. Rescue groups have not been able to cover all areas," he said. "Some houses have collapsed. Some had their roofs damaged." Additionally, prices for construction materials have skyrocketed, said Ali, a Buthidaung township resident whose real name isn't being disclosed for security reasons. He said he has been unable to repair his house before the impending start of the rainy season. "I can't keep up with these new prices," he said. "I don't have the money. I am facing a really difficult situation. Some families split to stay in other houses. But some just have to stay out in the open as they don't have anywhere to go." Lin Myat of Pauktaw township told RFA that communication and electricity were still not back to normal service. "Even if the relief supplies cannot reach us, it would be good if we can buy them at regular prices," he said. "But the shortage of electricity is the major problem here. "If the authorities cannot supply electricity like before, it would be good if we can get it by neighborhood," he said. "That way, we will be able to pump water and recharge our electrical products." Translated by Myo Min Aung. Edited by Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster. 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Intense clashes in Myanmar's Chin, Shan states leave 19 dead Four civilians, including an 11-year-old, were killed by heavy artillery and airstrikes. By RFA Burmese 2023.05.30 -- Intense fighting between the military and anti-junta forces in Myanmar's Chin and Shan states since the weekend left 19 dead, including four civilians, RFA Burmese has learned. The clashes, which killed an 11-year-old boy and left a dozen civilians injured, are the latest to erupt in two areas known as hotbeds of resistance to military rule since the Feb. 1, 2021, coup d'etat. Salai James, the chairman of the anti-junta Zofe Chin Defense Force, told RFA that a battle broke out between his paramilitaries and military troops in the Chin townships of Hakha and Thantlang on May 28. Over the course of two days, he said, junta troops fired heavy artillery on CDF positions with support from four fighter jets and a military helicopter. "The junta's heavy artillery hit the edge of Hakah town, which is close to their artillery base," Salai James said. "Eleven anti-junta fighters have been killed by their airstrikes so far, but we haven't been able to retrieve all of their bodies yet as we are still fighting." The bodies of only seven of the 11 dead CDF fighters had been retrieved as of Tuesday, he added. A Hakha CDF official, who declined to be named for security reasons, said that the fighting is "continuing to intensify" as the junta forces seek to regain territory between Hakha and Thantlang, which is currently controlled by a joint force of Chin defense groups. "They haven't been able to operate safely in Hakha and Thantlang - that's why they regularly attack those areas," he said. "When their ground troops can't beat the resistance forces, they use their air power to attack us." Fighting between the two sides continued on Tuesday, residents of the two townships said. Since the coup, the junta has launched nearly 80 aerial attacks on Chin state, killing 64 people, including members of anti-junta local defense forces, according to a May 22 statement issued by the Institute of Chin Affairs. Shan fighting Fierce fighting also was reported in eastern Shan state, when a joint force of ethnic Karenni resistance groups battled junta troops in the townships of Pekon and Pinlaung, according to anti-junta groups. On May 27, junta troops "randomly fired heavy artillery" into Pinlaung's Moe Bye village in an attack against members of the anti-junta Moe Bye People's Defense Forces, killing an 11-year-old boy and injuring four civilians, Banyar, the director of the Karenni Human Rights Organization said Tuesday. "This kind of attack isn't a one-off occurrence - the junta plans and attacks this way in many different places, knowingly firing at the civilian population," he said. "This is not only a war crime but also a crime against humanity." The Moe Bye PDF confirmed details of the battle, which was fought intermittently from May 27-29, in a statement issued on Monday. Additionally, four medics from an anti-junta unit based in neighboring Kayah state's Demoso township were killed while treating the injured during the fighting in Shan state, the Karenni Revolutionary Union rebel group said in a statement on Sunday. The dead included Caroline Khine Lin, Angela, Mya Htwe and John Bosco - all between the ages of 17 and 23, the KRU said. And at around 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, junta forces launched a series of airstrikes on an area of Moe Bye where civilians had taken shelter from the fighting, injuring four people and damaging three homes, according to the Moe Bye People's Defense Force. In a May 1 statement, the rebel Progressive Karenni People's Force said that there have been at least 663 clashes in southern Shan state and neighboring Kayah state between the coup and April 30, 2023. The junta has yet to issue a statement on the fighting in Chin and Shan states and attempts by RFA to contact junta Deputy Information Minister Major Gen. Zaw Min Tun went unanswered Tuesday. The clashes follow a vow by junta chief Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing on Armed Forces Day in March to eradicate the shadow National Unity Government, the anti-junta People's Defense Force paramilitary group, and the organizations that support them. Translated by Myo Min Aung. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster. 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lithuania blacklists 15 law enforcement officers of the Russian Federation Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2023.05.30 Following the recommendation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Gabrielius Landsbergis, the Ministry of the Interior has blacklisted 15 law enforcement officers of the Russian Federation, who are responsible for the sentence of Russia's opposition figure Vladimir Kara-Murza. Blacklisting 15 law enforcement officers of the Russian Federation has been made in response to a letter of 40 MEPs to the EU Foreign Ministers. The letter of 24 May 2023 called for adopting tough sanctions against Russian judges, prosecutors and all those responsible for the sentence of Kara-Murza. "The threat posed by the Kremlin-controlled regime in Russia remains as long as this regime is in power, and no one in Europe or the world can feel safe. It is clear to everyone that Vladimir Putin has no intention of adhering to any rules of the civilized world. The decisions of Russia's courts under Putin clearly show that those who dare to fight for democracy are regarded as traitors. Persecutors of Kara-Murza must face international sanctions and be included in the lists of prohibited persons," said the Minister of Foreign Affairs Landsbergis. "Lithuania sends a clear message that individuals supporting the regime and contributing to gross violations of human rights in the Russian Federation, particularly those targeting a defender of human rights like Kara-Murza, are not welcome in our country. This should not be tolerated in any democratic state," emphasized Minister of the Interior AgnA BilotaitA. Sanctions against these 15 officials of the Russian Federation were imposed following Article 133(4) of the Law of the Republic of Lithuania "On the Legal Status of Foreigners," which stipulates that a foreigner who publicly and/or actively supports or participates in activities that violate the principles and norms of international law pursued by a foreign state and is included in the national list of foreigners prohibited from entering another EU member state, European Free Trade Association member state, or NATO member state for these reasons is prohibited from entering the Republic of Lithuania for a period not exceeding five years. Russia's opposition activist Kara-Murza was arrested in Moscow on 11 April 2022. On 17 April 2023, a Moscow court sentenced him to 25 years in Russia for his criticism of the war in Ukraine. Kara-Murza was found guilty of treason, spreading "false" information about the Russian army and being affiliated with an "undesirable organisation". NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia issues arrest warrant for Sen.Graham over celebrating Russian deaths Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 5:54 PM Russia has issued an arrest warrant for Lindsey Graham after the US senator was caught on tape celebrating the deaths of Russian soldiers in the Ukraine war. The warrant was issued by Russia after a video released by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's office highlighted comments Graham made at a meeting with the Ukrainian president last week. The ministry followed up by issuing a warrant for his arrest as indicated Monday by its official record of wanted criminal suspects. The Investigative Committee, Russia's top criminal investigation agency, has also moved to open a criminal inquiry against Graham, a Republican from South Carolina. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Sunday hit back at Graham's provocative remarks, saying the Republican lawmaker is a "shame" to the United States. "It is difficult to imagine a greater shame for the country than to have such senators." Graham made the remarks during his third visit to Ukraine since Russia launched its "special military operation" in Ukraine in February 2022. The video, which was recently posted by the Ukrainian president's office, appeared to show Graham applauding Russian deaths. The video clip shows Graham meeting with Zelensky and discussing US military assistance to Ukraine. At one point in the clip, Graham can be heard saying: "The Russians are dying. It's the best money we ever spent." At the meeting, Graham also called on his government to increase its military aid as US President Joe Biden announced his decision to support the delivery of much sought F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. US senator dismisses criticism Graham in a statement has dismissed the criticism and lashed out at what he called the "Russian propaganda machine." The senator claimed that what he told Zelensky was that "it has been a good investment by the United States to help liberate Ukraine." Meanwhile, Reuters claimed that the published video was edited and there were no links between the remarks about Russians dying and US financial aid. Responding to the Reuters article, Russia's Foreign Ministry, however, has dismissed the "cynical attempts" to justify Graham's "cannibalistic" statements. The ministry suggested that the outlet was conducting "crisis management" on behalf of the senator and providing "ridiculous and shameful excuses" after his "Russophobic" statements. "Attempts to justify such statements are doomed to fail. It is already impossible to whitewash such words, even if they were uttered separately," the ministry said, noting that this isn't the first time Graham has made such remarks. Similar comments have also been uttered by other US and Ukrainian officials. The ministry accused Reuters of damaging its reputation with its "cowardly excuses and ridiculous attempts to shield Lindsey Graham" and suggested that the outlet was not conducting journalism, but acting as a PR agency carrying out the orders of the "collective West." Graham is among more than 200 US members of Congress whom Moscow banned last year from entering Russia. Last year, Graham called for "somebody in Russia" to kill President Vladimir Putin. He said it would be "a great service" to the country and the world. Russian politicians have condemned Graham's remarks as 'unacceptable and outrageous'. They said he was threatening Russian soldiers and their leader. The West has given Ukraine billions of dollars worth of weapons, such as rockets, drones, tanks, armored vehicles, and communication systems. Russia has said that the West was using Ukraine as a proxy to fight against Russia. It warned that the conflict could become much bigger. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Private Firms Obtain Kyrgyz Citizenship For Russians Desperate To Escape Homeland By Farangis Najibullah, Toktosun Shambetov May 30, 2023 As Moscow's brutal war in Ukraine drags on, ordinary Russians continue to leave their homeland to escape worsening economic conditions and evade military service. With demand high among Russians for foreign visas and passports, a growing number of private Russian-based companies are offering services to obtain Kyrgyz citizenship for their Russian clients. The companies, which describe themselves as law firms, have promoted Kyrgyzstan as a friendly, Russian-speaking country. They advertise that Kyrgyz citizenship can open the door to travel, study, and residency in Western countries. Kyrgyzstan, an impoverished former Soviet nation, has maintained good relations with Moscow despite the war in Ukraine. The private Russian companies charge between $1,500 and $14,000 for their services. Prices depend on whether clients want a consultation or a so-called all-inclusive service that involves preparing the paperwork, arranging a trip to Kyrgyzstan, and making appointments with passport officials there. The process to obtain Kyrgyz citizenship can take between three to 18 months, with the Russian companies charging extra for expedited processing. Official Kyrgyz figures show that the number of Russian citizens who acquired Kyrgyz passports increased fourfold last year. The government in Bishkek has insisted that every application for citizenship is carefully examined to prevent corruption. An employee of one of the Russian firms that offer assistance to obtain Kyrgyz citizenship told RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service that, on average, they charge around $12,000 per application. Kyrgyzstan does not officially recognize dual citizenship with Russia. But the employee of the Russian firm said the company exploits legal loopholes to get Kyrgyz nationality for its Russian clients. "Citizens of former Soviet countries -- those who were born before the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 -- can legally get Kyrgyz citizenship through simplified procedures," said the employee, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "You will not lose your Russian citizenship because of this," the employee said. "We offer guarantees in our service. We have contacts at the Kyrgyz Interior Ministry and passport offices." Clients are required to travel in person to the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek, where they are accompanied by the firm's representatives to the passport office and other administrative buildings, the employee explained. Tightening Visa Rules For Russians Western countries tightened visa rules for Russian citizens following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, making it much harder and costlier for Russians to travel abroad for holidays, business, and education. The exodus of Russians after the invasion also prompted countries like Turkey -- which has not joined Western sanctions against Moscow -- to toughen immigration rules. Since December, Turkey -- a top destination for Russian emigres and tourists -- has made it harder for Russians to obtain short-term residency permits, several Russian nationals told RFE/RL. Some banks in Turkey have also suspended the use of the Russian payment system Mir, which is popular with many Russians living in Turkey. According to Turkey's Migration Agency, some 153,000 Russian citizens obtained temporary residency in Turkey last year. The tougher immigration rules in Turkey have made Kyrgyz citizenship attractive to a growing number of Russians. "Now Kyrgyzstan is a convenient country to obtain citizenship in a short period of time," said the employee of the Russian firm offering Kyrgyz passports. "Besides, it's a nice, Russian-speaking country, and it's not under any kind of sanctions. With a Kyrgyz passport you can travel to Europe, the United States, and other countries, whereas it's become very difficult to go abroad with a Russian passport," the employee said. Prices for the company's services have been rising amid increased demand, the employee said. The Kyrgyz Population Registration Department said 1,631 Russian citizens applied for Kyrgyz passports between January and the end of September 2022. That is an increase of more than a 400 percent from the same period in 2021, when 385 Russian nationals applied for Kyrgyz citizenship. Among those who received Kyrgyz passports last year were Russian officials and businessmen and their family members, according to reports. It is unknown if they had applied for Kyrgyz nationality through private firms or other channels. Kyrgyzstan's Digital Development Ministry, which oversees population registration and citizenship acquisition issues, said earlier this month that the authorities "thoroughly" examine each application for Kyrgyz citizenship. The ministry urged people not to trust "dubious" advertisements on the Internet which offer Kyrgyz passports. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/private-firms- kyrgyz-citizenship-russians-escape-/32435363.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address South Africa grants BRICS leaders immunity for August summit Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 6:24 PM South Africa says it will provide diplomatic immunity to all leaders attending a summit of the BRICS group in August, in a move to protect the conference. The African country said on Tuesday it will extend its Diplomatic Immunity and Privileges Act to all international officials, who plan to attend the summit of the BRICS block of developing nations a Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. "This is a standard conferment of immunities that we do for all international conferences and summits held in South Africa, irrespective of the level of participation," South Africa's Department of Foreign Affairs announced. "The immunities are for the conference and not for specific individuals. They are meant to protect the conference and its attendees from the jurisdiction of the host country for the duration of the conference," it added. The government notice about immunity has prompted speculations that Johannesburg is providing immunity for Russian President Vladimir Putin to pave the way for him to attend the summit despite an ICC arrest warrant. The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for Putin's arrest in March over the alleged war crimes in Ukraine as Moscow has rejected the warrant as "null and void". South Africa a as an ICC member a may face increased pressures to arrest Putin if he enters the country. The country's foreign ministry, however, said, "These immunities do not override any warrant that may have been issued by any international tribunal against any attendee of the conference." Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday that "Russia will take part in this summit at the proper level." Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has confirmed he will attend the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting at the end of this week in Cape Town. Lavrov is currently in Kenya. Russian officials had previously said that Putin had been invited to attend the summit. The BRICS is a rising competitor to the G7 group of Western industrial countries. The member states' economies have more than 40% of the world's people and almost a quarter of the world's gross domestic product. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Treasury Sanctions Syrian Financial Facilitators Under the Caesar Syrian Civilian Protection Act U.S. Department of the Treasury May 30, 2023 WASHINGTON -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated two Syrian money service businesses that have secretly helped the Syrian regime under Bashar al-Assad and its Hizballah and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Qods Force (IRGC-QF) allies maintain access to the international financial system in violation of international sanctions. OFAC is also designating three brothers who own and operate Al-Fadel Exchange. These designations are pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13582 of August 17, 2011, "Blocking Property of the Government of Syria and Prohibiting Certain Transactions With Respect to Syria," and also the Caesar Syrian Civilian Protection Act of 2019 ("Caesar Act"), and underscore the serious threat posed by actors in the financial system who actively enable violent regimes to circumvent sanctions. "Bashar al-Assad's regime continues to rely on witting partners and deception to violate U.S., UK, and EU sanctions, while ignoring the needs of the Syrian people," said Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson. "The United States will continue to push for reforms that will improve the conditions of people living under Assad and to hold accountable those who enable the regime's continued repression of its people." This action follows OFAC's March 28, 2023 designations, some of which were pursuant to the Caesar Act, of key individuals supporting the Assad regime through the production and export of the highly addictive narcotic fenethylline, also known as Captagon, a billion-dollar illicit enterprise. AL-FADEL EXCHANGE Al-Fadel Exchange, headquartered in Damascus, has facilitated millions of dollars in transfers since 2021 to accounts at the U.S.-designated Central Bank of Syria that benefit the Syrian government and President Bashar al-Assad. Additionally, the U.S.-designated Hizballah terrorist organization a a key ally of the Syrian regime and Iran's IRGC-QF a has used Al-Fadel Exchange to transfer money from other countries in the region to Syria. The Syrian government and Hizballah collect hard currency in cities outside of Syria and use Al-Fadel Exchange to transfer those funds to the Central Bank of Syria. As of mid-2021, Al-Fadel Exchange also facilitated payments from the Assad regime to U.S.-designated Hizballah financial official, Muhammad Qasim al-Bazzal, in return for shipments of Iranian oil. Al-Fadel Exchange is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13582 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services in support of, the Central Bank of Syria. Al-Fadel Exchange is also being designated pursuant to the Caesar Act for being a foreign person that knowingly provides significant financial, material, or technological support to, or knowingly engages in a significant transaction with, the Government of Syria. Al-Fadel Exchange is owned and managed by three brothersaFadel Ma'ruf Balwi (Fadel Balwi), Mut'i Ma'ruf Balwi (Mut'i Balwi), and Muhammad Ma'ruf Balwi (Muhammad Balwi). The Balwi brothers were the only individuals authorized by the U.S.-designated Central Bank of Syria to work on behalf of Hizballah. Further, Fadel Balwi and Muhammad Balwi moved billions of Syrian pounds within Syria in 2022 on behalf of the Syrian government. Fadel Balwi, Mut'i Balwi, and Muhammad Balwi are being designated pursuant to E.O. 13582 for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Al-Fadel Exchange. Fadel Balwi, Mut'i Balwi, and Muhammad Balwi are also being designated pursuant to the Caesar Act as foreign persons who knowingly provide significant financial, material, or technological support to, or knowingly engages in a significant transaction with, the Government of Syria. AL-ADHAM EXCHANGE COMPANY Al-Adham Exchange Company, headquartered in Damascus, has also facilitated millions of dollars in transfers since 2021 to accounts at the Central Bank of Syria that likely directly benefit the Syrian Government and President Bashar al-Assad. As of late 2022, Al-Adham Exchange Company regularly moved money abroad for the Central Bank of Syria. Al-Adham Exchange Company is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13582 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services in support of, the Government of Syria. Al-Adham Exchange Company is also being designated pursuant to the Caesar Act for being a foreign person that knowingly provides significant financial, material, or technological support to, or knowingly engages in a significant transaction with, the Government of Syria. SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of these persons which are in or come within the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons must be blocked and reported to OFAC. In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. OFAC regulations generally prohibit all dealings by U.S. persons or within the United States (including transactions transiting the United States) that involve any property or interests in property of designated or otherwise blocked persons. In addition, persons that engage in certain transactions with the persons designated today may themselves be exposed to sanctions or subject to an enforcement action. The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List), but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with U.S. law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish but rather to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, please refer to OFAC's Frequently Asked Question 897. For detailed information on the process to submit a request for removal from an OFAC sanctions list, please refer to OFAC's website. View identifying information on the persons designated today. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Predictable aid access is essential to ensure the Syrian people have their basic needs met: UK statement at the Security Council Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria. 30 May 2023 Thank you to Special Envoy Pedersen, Ms Mudawi and to Ms Aveline for your informative briefings. It is clear from the Special Envoy's remarks, the last month has seen significant developments in Syria. So, now is the time to redouble our efforts for an inclusive and accountable end to the conflict so that Syrians enjoy peace, so Syria no longer exports instability to the region and refugees can return in safety and with dignity. Security Council resolution 2254 provides the framework to deliver sustainable and lasting peace for the people of Syria. Last week, the UN and international community came together to focus on the protection of civilians. This includes 15.1 million people in need because of the impact of 12 years of war, including 4.1 million people in North West Syria who faced a crisis on top of a crisis when the devastating earthquake hit in February. We welcome the extension of access to Bab Al Salam and Al Rai earlier this month, and we applaud the UN's efforts there. But last minute agreements for short-term periods are not workable. As the Secretary-General has said, and the Special Envoy reminded us today, humanitarians need to plan effectively, with predictable access, in order to deliver the indispensable, as Ms Mudawi said, "the indispensable humanitarian" [assistance] to people who are, as she said, "in life and death need." So, the extension of the Council's mandate for Bab Al Hawa for at least 12 months, as all three of our briefers have said today, is critical. But the people of Syria deserve more than that. They deserve answers on the whereabouts of their loved ones who have been detained and or are missing. As the Special Envoy said, this is a core issue that affects all Syrians, on all sides of the conflict. Progress on this issue is essential for rebuilding trust with the Syrian people, and putting in place the conditions needed for refugees to choose to go home. We also need effective action to stem the illegal captagon trade, to demonstrate that regional stability comes above the billion-dollar income the regime currently derives from it. Colleagues, for a stable region, we need a sustainable end to this conflict. Security Council resolution 2254 is the framework to deliver that lasting peace for the people of Syria. We call on the Syrian regime to meaningfully engage in this process. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taiwan-U.S. review team declares Han Kuang tabletop war game a success ROC Central News Agency 05/30/2023 03:44 PM Taipei, May 30 (CNA) A joint Taiwan-U.S. After Action Review (AAR) team has declared the recently concluded five-day tabletop war game phase of Taiwan's annual Han Kuang military exercises a success, a senior military official said Tuesday. The AAR team that observed the computerized wargames held from May 15 to 19 has concluded that the defensive force in the simulations was able to achieve all pre-set training goals and therefore is capable of defending itself, Major General Lin Wen-huang (zcs), who is in charge of planning at the Ministry of National Defense, said at a briefing on Tuesday. According to Lin, the five-day-around-the-clock war games were conducted using the United States-built Joint Theater Level Simulation (JTLS) platform to simulate joint, combined and coalition civil-military operations at the operational level. The simulations, which were held for five days in a row, are meant to test the ability of military personnel to coordinate and launch a response to a Chinese invasion, Lin said. A number of potential invasion scenarios were run during the war games based on the latest military threats posed by the People's Liberation Army of China, which has recently sent warplanes and warships to surround Taiwan, he added. Lin also stressed that what Taiwan's armed forces learned from these simulations was more important than whether the invaders or defenders ultimately won the war games. Lin did not disclose what the joint Taiwan-U.S. AAR consisted of, however. A military source previously told CNA that the AAR team consisted of retired U.S. generals and their active-duty Taiwanese counterparts. The Americans came as observers to provide suggestions on the tabletop war games, which simulated the armed forces' defensive response to various attack scenarios, the source said, without going into detail. Similar U.S. Han Kuang observation teams have made regular visits to Taiwan for the annual drills in the past, the source added. The Han Kuang exercises have been held annually since 1984, in the form of live-fire drills and computerized war games, to test Taiwan's combat readiness in the face of a possible Chinese invasion. This year will mark the 39th edition of the annual exercises, which are Taiwan's most important military drills and include all branches of the armed forces. The live-fire exercise component of Han Kuang is scheduled for July 24-28. (By Joseph Yeh) Enditem/ASG NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA Navy Type 071 amphibious landing ships spotted east of Taiwan island Global Times By Liu Xuanzun and Guo Yuandan Published: May 30, 2023 10:37 PM Two amphibious landing ships of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy were recently spotted in waters off the eastern side of the island of Taiwan, sending a strong warning to "Taiwan independence" forces and external interference, after the US delivered Stinger missiles to the island, experts said on Tuesday. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force spotted a PLA flotilla consisting of a Sovremenny-class destroyer, a Type 054 frigate, and two Type 071 amphibious landing ships when the warships sailed northward in waters between the eastern side of the island of Taiwan and Yonaguni Island, Okinawa on Friday, Japan's Ministry of Defense Joint Staff said in a press release on Monday. The PLA naval vessels continued northward and sailed past the Diaoyu Islands from the west, the Japanese press release said. While Japan claimed it sent forces to monitor and gather intelligence on the Chinese naval activities, it failed to provide additional details, including photos or hull numbers of the ships. It is uncommon for the Type 071 amphibious landing ship to be spotted in this region. The last recorded comparable activity was in November 2021, when Japanese newspaper Sankei Shimbun reported two Type 071s carried out a landing exercise near Hualien in waters to the east of the Taiwan island. Even during the two PLA large-scale Taiwan island encirclement exercises that served as countermeasures against then US house speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island in August 2022, and Taiwan regional leader Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with current US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in the US in April this year, amphibious landing forces did not apparently participate, observers said. The latest PLA activity came only one day after the first shipment of US FIM-92 Stinger missiles arrived in the island of Taiwan on Thursday. With the amphibious landing drills, the PLA is increasingly prepared for amphibious landing missions from all sides of the island of Taiwan, including the east side, a Chinese mainland military expert who requested anonymity told the Global Times on Tuesday. It is likely that the flotilla made a circle around the island of Taiwan, first sailing southward from the Taiwan Straits to the west of the island, then northward from waters to the east of the island, the expert said. The "Taiwan independence" forces and external interference forces should stop playing with fire and stop resisting reunification by force, the experts said. The Type 071 is a large comprehensive landing ship with more than 20,000 tons of displacement that can carry a large number of troops together with amphibious armored vehicles, air-cushioned landing craft with tanks, and helicopters, enabling the PLA to carry out both horizontal and vertical landing operations. On the same day the Type 071s were spotted, the defense authority on the island of Taiwan detected 33 PLA aircraft and 10 PLA vessels around the island, according to a statement it released on Saturday. These figures are well above the daily average for the PLA's routine patrols and drills around the island, so it is possible that the PLA held a larger joint exercise on that day, analysts said. Later on Saturday, a PLA Navy flotilla led by the aircraft carrier Shandong sailed through the Taiwan Straits, Taiwan's defense authority said on the day. It is not immediately known if the two activities were related, as the PLA has yet to announce either of the activities. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taiwan Says China Sees Invasion Of Ukraine As 'Test Case' For Its Own Designs By Reid Standish May 30, 2023 BRATISLAVA -- Since Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, Taiwan has kept a close eye on the war and how Kyiv has fared. For the democratically governed island, which has been under the threat of an invasion by China for decades, the fate of Ukraine is closely linked with its own. China views the war in Ukraine as a "test case" for its own designs on Taiwan, according to Taiwanese Deputy Foreign Minister Roy Chun Lee. In an exclusive interview with RFE/RL on the sidelines of the GLOBSEC security conference in Slovakia, Lee explained why Taipei wants the West to keep supporting Ukraine's war effort, how Europe's stance on Taiwan is changing, and in what ways China and Russia's close ties could affect the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region. "Until a final victory arrives, defending Ukraine against Russia has [direct] implications for Taiwan," Lee said. "In particular, it shows the potential support that we will receive from our democratic allies in the case of a Chinese military invasion." Beijing views Taiwan as a rogue province and has promised to unify it with mainland China -- even by force, if necessary. U.S. President Joe Biden has vowed to defend the island if it is attacked, fueling concerns that Taiwan could be the next geopolitical flashpoint after Russia's war in Ukraine. Lee said Chinese leader Xi Jinping has been monitoring both Russia's performance on the battlefield and the level of Western support for Ukraine as the war nears its 16th month of fighting. The senior Taiwanese diplomat added that Ukraine, backed by the West, has defended most of its territory from Russia, a move that he argued has had a deterring effect on China. But he added that Beijing is assessing the war over a "longer time span" and is closely watching if divisions emerge among Western nations over continued military support to Ukraine and enforcing tough sanctions against Moscow. "I think China is waiting to see what happens two years from now, and three years from now, and if the Western democratic camp will be able to hold their position," Lee said. Navigating Western Cracks Due to the sweeping implications of Chinese actions toward Taiwan, some Republicans in the U.S. Congress have called for scaling back U.S. military support for Ukraine, arguing that it detracts from being able to arm Taiwan, which they view as a more urgent task. Congress will face another decision about whether to provide more military aid to Ukraine this fall, and support for Kyiv is likely to come under scrutiny as the U.S. presidential election cycle begins. Former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis -- the early front-runners for the 2024 Republican nomination -- have questioned U.S. aid to Ukraine. Lee rejected the idea that aid for Ukraine undermines Taipei's defenses, saying the best form of support for the island nation of some 24 million was to avoid "making the same mistakes" with China that were made with Russia in the years before its full-scale invasion in February 2022, which the Taiwanese diplomat said amounted to "appeasement." "That's why we're asking everybody to support Ukraine. It's the best way to deter China," Lee said. "It's too late already for us to stop Russia, but I think we still have time to build up our solidarity to deter China from making the worst-case scenario into reality." Taiwan and China split in 1949 following a civil war. From the 1970s onward, most countries established formal ties with Beijing, leaving Taipei with few formal friends as China's political and economic power expanded globally. Currently, only 13 countries and the Vatican have official diplomatic relations with Taiwan. Many Western governments do not openly contest China's claim to Taiwan, but they do not support it either. Support for Taiwan is backed by both Democrats and Republicans in Washington, with congressional action and visits to the island picking up steadily. Interactions with Europe have also grown in recent years, with delegations from European capitals visiting the island and Czech President Petr Pavel even taking the step of accepting a congratulatory phone call from Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-Wen after his election in January, which marked a departure from previous norms for dealing with high-ranking politicians from the self-governing island. But Europe has also struggled to offer a unified strategy for how to deal with China. Following a state visit to China by French President Emmanuel Macron in April, he appeared to distance European support from Taiwan. Macron said that Europe must avoid getting dragged into a confrontation between China and Taiwan, and that it was important for the continent to keep its distance from any U.S.-led foreign policy moves in the region. Lee said that while "everyone was a little bit confused about the signal that President Macron was sending," the overall picture for Taiwan in Europe is still positive, with growing diplomatic linkages across Central and Eastern Europe. Rather, the Taiwanese diplomat said Macron's comments reflect Paris's goal of pushing "strategic autonomy" for Europe, a foreign policy strategy advocated by the French president to avoid becoming too dependent on the United States for foreign policy and defense decisions. He added that French support for the status quo across the Taiwan Strait was reaffirmed in a recent G7 statement this month and French parliamentarians have also been visiting the island. The War's Ripple Effects As Ukrainian forces reportedly prepare for a much-anticipated counteroffensive aimed at retaking territory occupied by Russia, Lee said Taipei is watching closely how the military and diplomatic dynamics of the war will affect Taiwan. China and Russia's growing ties, which were described as a "no limits" partnership by Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin before the invasion and have continued to endure since, are a particular area of interest. The Chinese and Russian navies have conducted several exercises in the past 12 months in the East China Sea and other areas. The defense partnership could be a new factor in the region in the event of a crisis involving Taiwan and its neighbors like Japan and South Korea. Lee said Taipei is "monitoring the situation closely" but that focus is still on China and how it can act unilaterally against Taiwan. "China has built up a military capacity that is able to implement a blockade strategy [of Taiwan] single-handedly without the intervention of Russia," Lee said. "It's unlikely in my assessment that Russia would be part of a blockade because they would make things much more complicated and difficult to control." Lee and other Taiwanese officials have said that a blockade of Taiwan, rather than a direct military invasion, is Beijing's most likely future course of action. The Chinese Army rehearsed a blockade with live-fire exercises in August 2022 following a visit by former U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taipei and with military drills in April when current U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy met Tsai in California. Some U.S. officials have said China wants to have the military capability of overrunning Taiwan by 2027. Admiral Harry Harris, the former commander of U.S. forces in the Pacific, told Congress in February that the United States is ignoring the prospect of China invading Taiwan within years "at our peril." But that view is not shared by top current U.S. officials, with Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin saying they do not believe a Chinese attack is imminent. Lee is adamant Taiwan can learn from the war in Ukraine and "start to accelerate the preparations along with the United States and European countries." "Taiwan has benefited from the very fact that it was Russia who invaded Ukraine before China invaded Taiwan," Lee said. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/china-invasion-ukraine- test-case-taiwan-designs/32435629.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Xi Jinping Sends Congratulatory Message to Recep Tayyip ErdoAYan on His Reelection as President of TArkiye People's Republic of China Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2023-05-29 22:00 On May 29, 2023, President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to Recep Tayyip ErdoAYan on his reelection as President of the Republic of TArkiye. Xi Jinping pointed out that China and TArkiye are both major developing countries and emerging markets, sharing extensive common interests. In recent years, the China-TArkiye strategic cooperative relationship has maintained the momentum of growth, and practical cooperation in various fields has made positive progress. Xi Jinping said that he attaches importance to the development of China-TArkiye relations, and stands ready to work with President Recep Tayyip ErdoAYan to understand and support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, and promote sustained, sound and steady development of the China-TArkiye strategic cooperative relationship. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PM call with President ErdoAYan of TArkiye: 28 May 2023 Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke to Turkish President Recep Tayyip ErdoAYan to congratulate him on his re-election. 29 May 2023 Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke to Turkish President Recep Tayyip ErdoAYan this evening to congratulate him on his re-election. The Prime Minister reiterated the strong relationship between the United Kingdom and TArkiye, as economic partners and close Nato allies. He reflected on TArkiye's ongoing recovery from the devastating earthquakes earlier this year and pledged the UK's continued solidarity with the Turkish people. The leaders agreed to continue working closely together to address shared challenges. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Year 10 Writing Project 2023 Last week Westside Schools English Department held an interactive afternoon for Year 10 English pupils. During this event, held on two separate afternoons, our learners had the opportunity to interview 25 local professionals from different walks of life about their jobs and careers. The English Departments aims were to develop pupils' confidence in their speaking and listening skills and facilitate their collaboration in working together to interview a professional of their choice from our community. This event gave our Year 10s a real-world opportunity to gather information that they will then use in their English lessons to write a response to an exam-style question as practice and revision for their upcoming exams in October this year. The aim was to bring the question paper to life and provide pupils with the chance to produce a piece of writing that is relevant to them, as well as providing an understanding that English prepares you for the world beyond school in many real-life events and tasks. Westside School would like to thank the lawyers; firefighters; police officers; bakery and restaurant owners; GBC engineers, presenters and producers; journalists; nurse, dentist and doctors; youth workers; dancer and make-up artist; professionals from the world of sport; and accountants who took part. They all gave very generously of their time and allowed students the experience of moving out of their comfort zone to fully engage in a meaningful way with an adult who is not one of their teachers or a primary carer. Ankara Could Get F16s but US-Turkey Ties Remain Fraught By Patsy Widakuswara May 30, 2023 Aiming to secure support for Sweden's bid to join NATO, U.S. President Joe Biden signaled a transactional approach in his engagement with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The newly reelected Turkish leader has been one of the most consequential yet complicated members of the transatlantic military alliance. Biden spoke with Erdogan on Monday to congratulate him on winning his third presidential term and said the two had discussed the issue of Sweden's NATO accession and Turkey's request to overhaul and expand its fleet of American-made F-16 fighter jets. "He still wants to work on something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted a deal with Sweden, so let's get that done. And so, we'll be back in touch with one another," Biden said, adding that they will talk more about it "next week." This is the first time Biden has linked the two issues together. Neither the White House nor the Turkish government mentioned the potential F-16 sale in their readout of the call. U.S. administration officials have repeatedly rejected suggestions of a quid pro quo between the transatlantic military alliance's expansion and a weapons sale. "That's not a condition," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated during her press briefing Tuesday. "President Biden has long been clear that he supports selling F-16s." On Tuesday, during a joint news conference with Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Lulea, Sweden, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that both issues "should go forward as quickly as possible." In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Finland and Sweden applied for NATO membership in May 2022. The bids, which must be approved by all NATO members, were held up by objections from Turkey and Hungary though Finland's bid was finally approved in April. F-16s Ankara has long sought to purchase 40 F-16 fighter jets made by U.S. company Lockheed Martin and nearly 80 modernization kits for its air force's existing warplanes a a $20 billion transaction. The F-16 jets make up the bulk of Turkey's combat aircraft after the Trump administration in 2019 expelled Ankara from the fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet program over its decision to acquire Russian-made S-400 air defense systems. The U.S. Congress, which has authority to block major weapons sales, objects to F-16 sales for reasons beyond NATO enlargement. It wants Ankara to ease tensions with Greece, refrain from invading northern Syria and enforce sanctions against Russia for its war on Ukraine. In April, about two weeks after Turkey ratified its support for Finland joining NATO, Washington approved a $259 million sale of avionics software upgrades for Ankara's current fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft. But Sweden's bid is still held up because Ankara believes that Stockholm is harboring "terrorists" a militants from the banned Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which took up arms against the Turkish state in 1984. Swedish lawmakers have passed legislation tightening the country's anti-terrorism laws, a move expected to help persuade Turkey. U.S. and Swedish officials have expressed hope that Sweden's membership will be confirmed by the time NATO leaders meet in Vilnius, Lithuania, in mid-July. While Erdogan is likely to leverage his support for Sweden, he is also a pragmatist, said Asli AydintaAYbaAY, a Turkish journalist and visiting fellow in the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings. "What we are going to see is a bit of a last-minute drama heading up to the Vilnius summit," AydAntaAYbaAY told VOA. "At the end, it's possible that this will be resolved on the night of the summit." Fraught relations F-16s aside, U.S.-Turkish ties will remain fraught, said James Jeffrey, a former U.S. ambassador to Turkey, who now chairs the Middle East program at the Wilson Center. "It's a complicated, transactional relationship," Jeffrey told VOA. "It's never 100% on our side. We're hoping it won't be more than 50% away from us, but a lot depends on the personal relationship between Biden and Erdogan. It's been frosty; the call is a good first step." Solid ties with Ankara will be "dramatically strategic in terms of containing Russia," as well as containing Iran and terrorist movements in the region a all key goals for Washington, Jeffrey added. However, Erdogan's friendly ties with Russian leader Vladimir Putin while NATO helps Ukraine to fend off a Russian invasion have made Western officials uneasy. "We are not bound by the West's sanctions," Erdogan said in a CNN interview earlier this month. "We are a strong state, and we have a positive relationship with Russia." Ankara has calibrated its response to the war in Ukraine consistent with its own strategic interests, condemning the invasion and restricting Russian warships and military flights across its territory while refusing to join Western sanctions on Russia and expanding its trade ties with Moscow. At the same time Erdogan has maintained good ties with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. His government has provided aid and drones to Ukraine and was instrumental in the U.N.-backed deal allowing Ukrainian grain ships access to global markets via the Black Sea. S-400s The Turkish decision to acquire S-400 air defense systems remains the thorniest issue for the U.S., said Howard Eissenstat, a nonresident scholar at the Middle East Institute. "That one's going to be really difficult to solve," he told VOA. Washington insists it won't allow Ankara back into its F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program until Ankara abandons the Russian-made weapons. Earlier this month, Turkish media reported that Ankara rejected the Biden administration's request for Turkey to send its S-400 air defense systems to Ukraine. Next week, Biden will host British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. The leaders are expected to discuss the issue of NATO enlargement, including how to get Ankara on board. "Those are good interlocutors for the president," Jeffrey said. "Those are people who understand the geostrategic situation in Europe." Anita Powell contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkey to Investigate Media Outlets Over Election Coverage By Liam Scott May 30, 2023 Turkey's broadcasting watchdog on Tuesday announced it is investigating six opposition TV channels for "insulting the public" through coverage of Sunday's presidential election runoff. The Radio and Television Supreme Council, or RTUK, said viewers had complained about election coverage, but did not provide specific examples. One of the channels under investigation aTele 1a said on its website that the action shows the "government's censorship device is at work." The inquiry comes two days after President Tayyip Erdogan of the Justice and Development Party, or AKP, won the second round of the presidential election on Sunday. Assaults on press freedom bookended this election. Ahead of the vote, several journalists were arrested, detained, sentenced to jail time and assaulted a often over coverage about the election, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Freedom of expression both online and offline has sharply declined in Turkey over the past decade, according to Cathryn Grothe, a research analyst at Freedom House. "President Erdogan and the AKP have increasingly exerted control over the media environment by censoring independent news outlets and silencing those who criticize the government or its policies," Grothe told VOA. "The RTUK's recent investigation into six opposition television channels on politically motivated charges of 'insulting the public' is just another example of how Turkish authorities will go to extensive lengths to control the narrative and silence the opposition," Grothe said. The investigation was also of little surprise to Erol Onderoglu, the Turkey representative for media watchdog Reporters Without Borders, or RSF. "We now know that the ultimate goal of those who say, 'death to criticism' is to completely silence those who make different voices arbitrarily," Onderoglu said. Turkey's Washington embassy did not immediately reply to VOA's email requesting comment. The media outlets under RTUK investigation are Halk TV, Tele 1, KRT TV, TV 5, Flash Haber TV and Szc TV. In April, RTUK fined three of those channels over coverage, including for reports that were critical of earthquake rescue efforts or that included opposition voices criticizing the AKP policy. In 2022, RTUK issued 54 penalties to five independent broadcasters, compared to just four against pro-government channels, according to the free expression group Article 19. "RTUK has long been an apparatus of [authorities]," said Faruk Eren, the head of the press union of the Confederation of Progressive Trade Unions of Turkey. "More difficult days await journalists," he told VOA. RTUK has previously dismissed criticism of how it operates, saying it acts in accordance with Turkish law and "stands up for pluralism, press freedom and free news." Media and rights analysts have raised concerns over what another Erdogan term will mean for civil society after a presidency marked by a crackdown on media, internet censorship and hostility to minority groups, the Associated Press reported. Overall, Turkey ranks poorly on the World Press Freedom Index, coming in at 165 out of 180 countries, where 1 denotes the best environment for media, says RSF. "One part of me thinks that it's par for the course. We've become accustomed to this," said Sinan Ciddi, a fellow on Turkey at the Washington think tank Foundation for Defense of Democracies. But, Ciddi told VOA, there are concerns that Erdogan will use his new term to crack down even harder on press freedom. "I'm of the opinion he basically lets things continue as they are," Ciddi said, "simply because that's his way of demonstrating to the world, 'Hey, look, we have press freedom. There are channels and outlets which hate me.'" The timing of the inquiry just two days after the election is concerning said Suay Boulougouris, who researches Turkish digital rights at the free expression group Article 19. No one was under the impression that another Erdogan term would bring about advancements to human rights and press freedom in Turkey, Boulougouris said, but this inquiry sets the tone for the next five years in a distressing way. "It's known that RTUK is weaponized to challenge or suppress these TV channels," Boulougouris told VOA. "Launching this inquiry so quickly, right after the elections, to me indicates that chances are really low for political change and democratic reforms in Turkey." To Ciddi, critical voices "will want to keep the fight going." "Going forward, we can expect a rallying cry for media and independence," he said. Hilmi Hacaloglu contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Defence Minister SklenAr discusses assistance to Ukraine with Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) partners Ministry of Defence of The Slovak Republic 25.05.2023 In a video conference with other defence leaders, Defence Minister Martin SklenAr today attended a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG). The discussion sought to address the operational needs of Ukraine's Armed Forces in its defence against Russia's aggression. In a statement, Defence Minister Martin SklenAr said: "Whilst Ukraine is into its second year of defending itself heroically against the Russian aggressor, the international community's support to it is key. Therefore, we must not let up either. We are determined to continue to thoroughly assess all of the Ukrainian side's follow-on requirements to contribute to its defence as our resources allow." The head of the SVK MOD reminded that Slovakia is among the most active contributors of military assistance to Ukraine. Slovakia's military aid to Ukraine so far has included the S-300 air defence system, BoAena demining UGVs, 30 BVP-1 IFVs, five transport helicopters, munitions, fuel, 13 MiG-29s, and some assets of the SA-6 "Gainful" surface-to-air missile system. In addition to running a battle damage repair (BDR) workshop in Michalovce, Slovakia also provides training to Ukrainian forces under the European Union Military Assistance Mission Ukraine (EUMAM UA). Since its formation at Ramstein AB on 26 April 2022, the UDCG has met regularly, with the aim of exploring ways to sustain support to Ukraine in its fight against the aggressor. Today marked the 12th such meeting. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Minister SklenAr: "With Estonia, we are bound by our common defence interests, including by our determination to continue to help Ukraine" Ministry of Defence of The Slovak Republic 29.05.2023 The Slovak Ministry of Defence was visited today by Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur as he met Defence Minister Martin SklenAr for in-person talks, discussing ways to deepen SVK-EST defence cooperation, their common views on Russia's aggression against Ukraine, and the strengthening of NATO's collective defence. Speaking at a press conference after the bilateral meeting, Defence Minister Martin SklenAr said: "With Estonia, we are bound by our common defence interests, which, in the area of defence cooperation, are mostly associated with trans-Atlantic security and the Alliance's collective defence. We shared information on our latest assistance to Ukraine and a range of options for additional assistance from both countries. Also discussed was the defence capability of our countries and ways to strengthen it in response to the change of the security situation in the world." Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur said: "I really admire the extent to which Slovakia is helping Ukraine. The value of peace and freedom is incalculable, which is why any assistance that we can send to Ukraine is exceptionally important to help it win. And it's exactly what Slovakia is doing with its support to Ukraine - it has supplied Ukraine with vital capabilities in its fight against the aggressor." He also noted that the agenda for today's discussion included the upcoming NATO Summit in Vilnius, the international community's efforts to ramp up the production of artillery rounds for Ukraine and to rebuild stockpiles with munitions of this type. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address With our success, pressure and Patriots we will respond to all manifestations of Russia's evil - address by the President of Ukraine President of Ukraine 29 May 2023 - 21:48 Good health to you, fellow Ukrainians! Today was a very long day, and it started very early for many of our people. Several Russian terrorist attacks in one day. Shaheds, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles. Guided bombs. Thanks to our air defense, to all the defenders of the sky, at least hundreds of lives were saved today. In just one day. Most of the Shaheds and missiles were shot down. But each such terrorist attack brings us and the whole world to an obvious conclusion: Russia wants to follow the path of evil to the end, that is, to its defeat, because evil cannot have any other end but defeat. The world must see that terror is losing. When Patriots in the hands of Ukrainians ensure one hundred percent downing of any Russian missiles, terror is losing. When the world increases pressure on Russia, including sanctions, when the terrorist's isolation grows, when its former partners are ashamed of any closeness with Moscow, terror is losing. And, of course, there is no greater humiliation for a terrorist state than the success of our warriors. In fact, with our success, our pressure, our Patriots we must and will continue to respond to all manifestations of Russia's evil. And we will destroy this evil. No one else in the world uses weapons against evil more effectively than Ukrainians. Today, I held a meeting of the Staff. The reports are very specific. Supply of new air defense systems and missiles to them, relevant agreements with partners. The effectiveness of our air defense and what can make our air defense stronger. Hits that, unfortunately, took place. Our defense forces are able to learn and will do everything to make it much more difficult for terrorists. As usual, the Commander-in-Chief and the commanders of the operational directions reported to the Staff. Not only the supply of ammunition, not only the training of new brigades, not only our tactics. But also the timing. This is what is most important. The timing of how we will move forward. We will. The decisions have been made. I thank every soldier and sergeant, officer and general, and every prepared brigade. Today I also had a very informative meeting with our international staff. We are preparing new joint steps with our partners to strengthen our defense. And for our active actions. There is no alternative to the complete liberation of our land. There is no alternative to the full protection of our values. And I am grateful to all our partners who understand that respect for every human life, human freedom and international law are values on which no compromise is possible. I would like to thank Denmark today - the entire nation, the entire Danish political class. Thank the Parliament, the Government and Prime Minister Frederiksen personally for the decision to increase financing of the Danish Fund of support for our country by more than USD 3 billion. The total amount of defense assistance from Denmark will now reach more than $4 billion 700 million. This is very significant. Such decisions make the defeat of Russian terror faster. Thank you for this! Today I spoke with Prime Minister of Cambodia Hun Sen. I thanked him for his principled support of international rules, of everything for which nations are united by the UN Charter and conventions binding for all. I invited Cambodia to join joint efforts with various countries of the world in implementing our Peace Formula. This is a common global task - to prevent Russia from making terror something usual to the world so that it leads to someone else catching this evil virus. And just before recording this address, I had two more conversations. I spoke with Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte. I informed him about the terrorist attacks. I thanked him for his readiness to continue helping us protect people. The Netherlands is among the leaders in helping protect against terror and bring terrorists to justice. We discussed our defense cooperation - our new aviation coalition, a coalition of modern fighter jets that we are creating. And we will create it! Of course, we also discussed strengthening our air defense. I spoke with President of TArkiye ErdoAYan. I congratulated him on winning the elections. I am confident that our further cooperation - Ukraine and TArkiye - at all levels will bring even more benefits to our people and international stability. The security of our region and the whole of Europe, global food security, and the protection of fundamental norms of international law are what we did, do and will continue to do together. Thank you to everyone in the world who helps! Glory to all our warriors! Thanks again to the Air Force and all our defenders of the sky. Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Republic of Moldova: 7 individuals listed - for their destabilising actions and for undermining the territorial integrity of Ukraine Council of Europe 30/05/2023 Press release The Council decided today to impose restrictive measures against 7 individuals under two distinct sanctions frameworks: a recently established regime targeting persons responsible for actions aimed at destabilising, undermining or threatening the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova, and the regime addressing the actions which undermine or threaten the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. "Moldova is one of the countries most affected by the fallout of Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine. There are serious, increased and continued attempts to destabilise the country. Today's listings send an important political signal of the EU's support to Moldova in the current difficult context. The EU's stance remains firm: we will continue to crack down on those who destabilise our direct neighbourhood." Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy The package is therefore intended to address on the one hand the sensitive internal situation in Moldova, and attempts to destabilise the country, and on the other hand the involvement of some Moldovan nationals in efforts to undermine the territorial integrity of Ukraine by supporting Russia's war of aggression. The sanctioned individuals are politicians and businessmen with Moldovan or Russian nationality that have engaged in destabilising activities. Some of them are linked to the "Bank Fraud" case, which resulted in huge losses for the Moldovan budget. Others are linked to efforts orchestrated by the Kremlin to destabilise Moldova through for instance the planning of violent demonstrations, financial misconduct, unauthorised export of capital and support for the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) projects. Furthermore, the two listings linked to Ukraine target individuals who provided support to Russian military forces, and cooperated with Russian occupation authorities. All those listed today are subject to an asset freeze and EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. They are additionally subject to a travel ban, which prevents them from entering or transiting through EU territories. The efforts to destabilise the Republic of Moldova have noticeably increased since the beginning of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, and represent a direct threat to the stability and security of the external borders of the EU. The EU remains unwavering in its support to Moldova, its resilience, security, stability, economy and energy supply in the face of destabilising activities by external actors. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine pressing South Korea for weapons supplies IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency May 30, 2023 Tehran, IRNA -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged South Korea to provide military equipment such as anti-aircraft systems to Ukraine amid a conflict with Russia. "I know there are many limitations regarding weapons support, but those principles should not be applied to defense systems and equipment for protecting our assets," Reuters quoted Zelenskyy as saying in an interview with South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo. South Korea's early warning system would help defend Ukraine from Russian air raids, he claimed in the interview. Earlier on Tuesday, Russia started a new round of air strikes against Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities announced that debris remained after the air raids in several areas of the capital city. 9376**2050**4261 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Answer to question about drone attack on Moscow and Moscow Region The President answered a question by Director General of the Agency for Strategic Initiatives Svetlana Chupsheva on the drone attack on Moscow and the Moscow Region. May 30, 2023 16:10 Moscow Director General of the Agency for Strategic Initiatives Svetlana Chupsheva: Today we are meeting at the Zotov Centre creative space. I will tell you everything, Mr President, but I cannot help but ask a question that concerns many today. Drones attacked Moscow and the Moscow Region this morning. Can you comment on what happened and what measures must be taken to prevent such attacks, and how we should react to this? President of Russia Vladimir Putin: We are beginning with this issue? Ok. As you know, it all began long ago. I will just need to repeat the story. After the collapse of the USSR, some rivalry between Russia and Ukraine was inevitable - obviously - but it seems that those who were dealing with this believed that it would be done in a civilised way, and moreover, with regard to our historical, cultural and linguistic affinity. But it all went another way, unfortunately, which should have been expected. Basically, the territory that is called Ukraine was virtually controlled from the very beginning by people who, being led by the West, took the path of not just confronting Russia, but creating an "anti-Russia" on that territory. They had to have consideration for the people who lived in the southeast of Ukraine: these were voters, a large number of voters, who had to be reckoned with. Let me also remind you that, during the time that Ukraine was emerging as an independent state, from the very beginning, from the first step, it declared itself a neutral state: this is written in its Declaration of Independence. Instead, they gradually turned to a different path: joining NATO, an organisation that is hostile to Russia and was created solely to fight the Soviet Union and Russia. And in 2008, without any external signs, without any military-political tension, they announced that they were joining NATO, they wanted to join NATO, and the Western countries - the alliance members - announced in Bucharest, I think, at the summit, that NATO's doors were open to Ukraine. Not only were we deceived and told that there would be no NATO expansion to the east, but then, they also reached Ukraine. In 2014, as you know, they carried out a coup d'Atat and simply began to destroy everyone who, one way or another, wanted to build normal relations with Russia. They also unleashed a war and military operations in Donbass. Then they deceived everyone to keep their guard down, declaring that they wanted to resolve the issue through peaceful means. Now they are openly admitting that they were deceiving us only in order to build up their military capability and unleash hostilities, including against Crimea. Now, as you know, they are using drones for attacks. The Russian Armed Forces, which had to respond - Russia was forced to respond to the war the Ukrainian regime unleashed in Donbass. We all had to respond by launching the special military operation. We are striking at the territory of Ukraine, but with long-range precision weapons, at military infrastructure facilities only, either at ammunition or fuel and lubricants warehouses used for combat operations. We have talked about the possibility of striking at decision-making centres. Of course, the headquarters of Ukrainian military intelligence is one of them, and a strike at this target was carried out two or three days ago. In response, the Kiev regime has chosen a different path - attempts to intimidate Russian citizens with strikes at residential buildings. This is an obvious terrorist approach. First, I must say that the Moscow air defence system responded properly. The response was satisfactory although there is room for improvement. We faced similar problems at the Khmeimim Aerodrome in Syria, but the area around our airbase in Khmeimim is not comparable to Moscow - an enormous European metropolis. However, overall, we understand what to do to tighten up the capital's air defences and we will do this. However, I am not even so much concerned about this as over the attempts to trigger a Russian response. Apparently, they are provoking us into responding in a like manner. We will have to consider how to approach this. Of course, Ukrainian citizens cannot speak out because of the total terror against civilians. Yet, they should know where the current leaders of Ukraine are pushing the country. Ukrainian citizens need to understand that there are other threats as well, for instance, attempts to disrupt the operation of the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant or use "dirty" devices related to nuclear technology. We have talked about this more than once. We know what they have in mind. Obviously, no matter what we say, they will always point fingers at Russia, although this is wrong. We did not unleash this war. Let me repeat that the Kiev regime unleashed it in 2014 in Donbass. Nor are we using the means that the Ukrainian 'wheeler-dealers' are resorting to. This attack on civilian buildings in Moscow is further evidence of this. But I will repeat - the air defence system in Moscow worked well. But, again, there is room for improvement, we know what should be done. Svetlana Chupsheva: Thank you, Mr President. We believe in our victory. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian foreign minister: West supporting 'genocide' in Ukraine Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 3:34 PM Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has condemned the US-led West for its support of what he called "genocide" in Ukraine. Lavrov said on Tuesday that the West was "supporting genocide" in Ukraine by backing Kiev in its plans to "destroy everything Russian" in Ukrainian pro-Moscow regions. Speaking at a press conference in Bujumbura, Burundi, Lavrov said the West has been turning a blind eye to Kiev's persecution of the pro-Moscow residents in the Russian-speaking Donbas region. "The conclusion is very simple - the West directly supports genocide," he stated. Earlier, Russia's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, published a post on social media in which she stated the objective of Moscow's special military operation in eastern Ukraine was to put an end to the "systematic extermination of the Donbas population" that had been going on by neo-Nazis since 2014. Meanwhile, Russia's President Vladimir Putin made similar remarks, saying the Russian military campaign in eastern Ukraine, which started in February 2022, aimed to de-Nazify the region. Putin confirms strike on Ukrainian military intel. headquarters Meantime, Putin confirmed on Tuesday that Russian forces had staged a successful strike on the headquarters of the Ukrainian military's Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) in the Ukrainian capital, Kiev. "We've been talking about the possibility of striking the 'decision-making centers.' Naturally, Ukraine's military intelligence headquarters falls into such a category, and it was hit two or three days ago," Putin confirmed. Putin also said that a drone from Ukraine had reached the Russian capital, Moscow on Tuesday. He said the main goal of Kiev in launching drone attacks on "residential buildings" in Russia is to "intimidate" Russian citizens, adding that such moves were a "clear sign" of Kiev's "terrorist activity." Putin said Kiev aims to provoke the Russians into retaliating against Ukraine's attacks by targeting Russian residential areas. "They are provoking us into taking mirror actions. We'll see what we can do about it. Yet, Ukrainian citizens, who of course have no say about anything now, since Ukraine has unleashed a total terror against its civilian population, must realize what the incumbent authorities are pushing for," Putin pointed out. Putin noted that the continuous effort to cause disruption at the Zaporozhye nuclear power Plant in Ukraine, as well as potential attempts to use a "dirty" nuclear device, were the most serious acts Kiev pursued. The Ukrainian military has shelled Zaporizhzhia nuclear power in the country's volatile south as part of Kiev's continued provocations. The Russian leader said Moscow's military launches its strikes in Ukraine only on military targets, such as ammunition dumps and fuel depots, using "high-precision" weaponry. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Research collaboration agreement reached between the Gibraltar National Museum and a major European University The Gibraltar National Museum has announced that it has reached a research collaboration agreement with Leiden University in the Netherlands. The work brings together Leidens prestigious zooarchaeology laboratory with researchers at the Gibraltar National Museum. For two years, Leiden has been sending students on summer placements to work in the Gorhams Cave Complex UNESCO World Heritage Site and this agreement will provide a collaborative platform heading forward. It is envisaged that staff and students from Leiden will be involved in aspects of the important zooarchaeological work being carried out in Gibraltar. This will include joint research projects, student training including options for higher degree dissertations and theses. The agreement also means that very specialised, cutting-edge, work will be carried out on the unique Gibraltar material. In addition to this agreement, this prestigious institution has appointed Professor Clive Finlayson, Professor Geraldine Finlayson and Dr Stewart Finlayson as Researchers. This appointment also strengthens ties between the Gibraltar National Museum and the Gorhams Cave Complex UNESCO World Heritage Site with Leiden University and gives further opportunities for international students to be taught and supervised locally in Gibraltar. Leiden University in the Netherlands is a public research university. It was founded as a Protestant university in 1575 by William, Prince of Orange, as a reward to the city of Leiden for its defence against Spanish attacks during the Eighty Years' War. As the oldest institution of higher education in the Netherlands, it enjoys a solid reputation across the world and is one of Europe's leading international research universities. The university has produced sixteen Nobel Laureates, including Albert Einstein. It is closely associated with the Dutch royal family and ten Prime Ministers of the Netherlands are also alumni. Russia: West's military support cannot change Ukraine war 'outcome' Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 3:29 PM The Western military support for Ukraine would not change the outcome of the conflict but it will only prolong hostilities, Russia's defense chief has said, hours after drone attacks on Kiev and Moscow. Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu stated that the West is "stepping up" arms supplies to Ukraine. "The military support for Ukraine will only protract military actions, but it cannot affect the outcome of the special military operation," Russia's state news agency TASS quoted him as saying. He also accused Kiev of carrying out "terrorist" acts against Russian citizens with the use of weapons provided by NATO. His remarks came shortly after Moscow was hit by drone strikes. The Russian Defense Ministry said air defenses had downed all eight of the drones. Shoigu blamed Kiev for the attack, saying, "This morning, the Kyiv regime carried out a terrorist attack in the Moscow region. On civilian targets, I note." Meanwhile, a Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in Tuesday's attack but said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. In Kiev, Ukrainian officials claimed that "massive" Russian drone raids on the capital killed one person and injured four more but later explained that the casualties resulted from "falling debris" of shot-down drones. They also claimed that their forces shot down 20 Russian drones over the capital city, blaming "falling debris" for setting ablaze the high-rise residential building that killed one, wounded at least four, and forced the evacuation of 20 residents. Since the start of the war, the US and its Western allies have been providing Kiev with military equipment worth tens of billions of dollars. The supplied arms include rocket systems, drones, tanks and armored vehicles and communication systems as reports also indicate a probable supply of F-16 fighter jets. Long-range attack drones have been also added to the list of Western weapons supplied to the Ukrainian forces fighting against Russian troops. Kiev has lately used Britain's Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles to hit Russian supply depots and command posts as well as civilian targets in the frontline in Russian-controlled territory in eastern Ukraine, according to Moscow. Russia has repeatedly said that the collective Western nations are engaged in a proxy war with Russia over Ukraine, warning that the conflict could escalate into a much bigger fight. Moscow also insists that Western nations must refrain from the direct military confrontation between the US-led NATO forces and Russian troops. Meanwhile, Shoigu noted that were tracking Western arms supplies to Ukraine and are launching strikes against them. "They [the Western countries] are increasing supplies of equipment and weapons to Ukraine. We are monitoring the volume and routes of the supplies, and when we detect them, we strike them," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Moscow, Kiev targeted by drone strikes as fighting intensifies Iran Press TV Tuesday, 30 May 2023 9:19 AM Both Ukraine and Russia reported on Tuesday morning that their capitals have been targeted by drones coming from the other side, as fighting between the warring neighbors intensifies. Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin said drones attacked the Russian capital on Tuesday morning, damaging several buildings. Sobyanin ordered the evacuation of residents from the two apartment blocks that were targeted, according to messages posted on Telegram. No information regarding casualties has been provided yet. Moscow Region Governor Andrey Vorobyov reported having shot down several unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) near Moscow. "This morning, residents of some districts in the Moscow Region could hear the sounds of explosions - it was our air defense in operation. Several drones were downed on their course to Moscow," Vorobyov said. The drone attack early on Tuesday caused minor damage to a few buildings in the Russian capital, according to Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin, who also emphasized that no one was seriously hurt. 'Massive' Russian drone raids kill 1, injure 4: Kiev This is while Ukrainian officials claimed that "massive" Russian drone raids on Kiev killed one person and injured four more, but later explained that the casualties resulted from "falling debris" of shot-down drones. "The attack was massive, came from different directions, in several waves," head of Kiev's military administration, Serhiy Popko, claimed on Tuesday in a post on his Telegram social media account. "Massive attack! Stay indoors!" Kiev's mayor Vitali Klitschko further declared in a post on Telegram, claiming that a multi-story building was also damaged in the Holosiivskyi district. Explaining the casualties, however, the Ukrainian officials also claimed that their forces shot down 20 Russian drones over the capital city, blaming "falling debris" for setting ablaze the high-rise residential building that killed one, wounded at least four, and forced the evacuation of 20 residents. According to the military administration in Kiev, the two upper floors of the building have been destroyed, and there may still be survivors under the rubble. It further stated that the "massive" drone raid marked the second such attack on the Ukrainian capital this week and the 17th since the start of the month. Such claims by Kiev's officials come just a week after a British government-tied think tank unveiled in a report that Ukraine has suffered a massive loss of 10,000 drones per month in its war against Russia. The report, prepared by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) further attributed the shooting down of the huge number of Western-supplied Ukrainian drones to Russia's effective use of electronic warfare and technology-based defense systems. The report appeared to entirely dismiss earlier publicity campaigns by Western media outlets, blaming Russian use of a large number of "Iranian drones" for major losses inflicted on the Ukrainian side. Both Tehran and Moscow had fiercely denied such allegations. RUSI further pointed to Russian military's persisting use of navigational interference in the battle area as a form of electronic protection against Ukrainian drone attacks. It added that Moscow has demonstrated that it is "highly capable" of intercepting and decrypting Ukrainian military communications. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials have also expressed fears that their Soviet-era anti-aircraft defenses are running out of ammunition and that western systems such as the US Patriot are not arriving in enough numbers to fill the gap amid recent reports that one Patriot anti-air battery was destroyed in Kiev by a Russian missile. Popko also claimed on Monday that in addition to maintaining "deep psychological tension" among Ukrainian civilians, Russia's leaders further desired to exhaust Ukraine's air defenses through the constant barrage of attacks. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Launches New Deadly Air Strikes On Kyiv; Drones Hit Moscow Buildings By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service, Current Time May 30, 2023 Russia launched a fresh wave of drone strikes on Kyiv on May 30 -- the fourth attack in three days -- killing at least one person and wounding several others, but Ukrainian authorities said most of the drones were shot down by the capital's air defenses, while Moscow was subjected to a rare drone attack that damaged several buildings. The mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko, said on Telegram that fires broke out in several districts of the capital, and falling debris set a high-rise building on fire in Kyiv's Holosiyivskiy district. "One person died. In total, four victims were hospitalized in the Holosiyivskiy district. Medics provided help on the spot," Klitschko wrote, adding that 20 people were evacuated. The acting head of Ukraine's National Police, Ivan Vyhivskiy, said on Telegram that 13 people were wounded in the attack on Kyiv and its surroundings in addition to the person who died -- a young woman. "Nine people were wounded in Kyiv, and a 33-year-old woman died. Four citizens were injured in the Kyiv region," the press service of the National Police quoted Vyhivskiy as saying. The Ukrainian military said the attack solely consisted of Iranian-made drones and it lasted from shortly before midnight until 4:30 a.m. local time. "A total of 31 kamikaze drones attacked from the north and south. The air defense forces destroyed 29 drones," the military said. Almost all drones were shot down on the outskirts of Kyiv and above the capital. Bolstered by sophisticated Western-supplied equipment, Ukrainian air defenses have been adept at thwarting Russian air attacks -- both drones and aircraft missiles. Russia has intensified missile and drone strikes on Ukraine after a lull of nearly two months, targeting military facilities and supplies with waves of attacks several times a week. The capital's military administration said only Iranian-made drones were involved in the May 30 attack -- the 17th on Kyiv this month. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said he continues to speak with Ukraine's Western partners about providing further air defense systems to repel Russian attacks. This included a conversation on May 30 with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. "Now, precisely in Ukraine, on our land, in our sky, it is being decided whether freedom and civilization -- global leadership in this century -- will be preserved. It is decided by us, together with America, together with Europe, together with all our allies and partners," Zelenskiy said, thanking all countries that are helping Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russia's Defense Ministry said eight drones were shot down or jammed in Moscow in what it said was a "terrorist attack" by the "Kyiv regime." Baza's Telegram channel said more than 25 drones had been involved in the attack. The reports could not be independently verified. "Several buildings suffered minor damage" in the attack, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on Telegram. "No one has been seriously wounded." An emergency services representative told RIA Novosti that drones hit two residential buildings in Moscow. The information could not be independently verified. Russia's Investigative Committee said no one was wounded. Russian President Vladimir Putin came to the Kremlin later and was briefed on the attack, spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. He was quoted later as saying that Ukraine sought to frighten Russians. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhaylo Podolyak told the Breakfast Show YouTube channel on May 30 that the country had nothing to do with the drone attack. "Of course we are pleased to watch and predict an increase in the number of attacks. But, of course, we have nothing directly to do with this," he said. Ukraine has denied similar attacks in the past. The United States is still gathering information on reports of the drone strike, the White House said. Spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated the U.S. position that it does not support attacks inside of Russia. The European Union condemned the attacks on Kyiv, with EU spokesman Peter Stano saying that such actions "indiscriminately terrorize" Ukrainian civilians. "In the last 24 hours, Kyiv endured three waves of Russian missile and drone attacks. These attacks shows that Putin is not serious about stopping his war and he wants to continue his escalation against the Ukrainian people," Stano said on Twitter. The latest attack on Kyiv came a day after Russian forces carried out rare daytime air strikes on the Ukrainian capital on May 29. Eyewitnesses said they heard at least 10 explosions in Kyiv, as the sky above the city filled with blast clouds and smoke trails. The city's military administration said that air defenses shot down all 11 Iskander missiles launched in the daytime attack. The claim could not be independently verified. Speaking to RFE/RL near a subway station in Kyiv's Podil district, several locals said air raids had become the reality of their everyday lives since the war began. "These attacks are yet another problem we have to deal with because of this war," pensioner Ivan Chihir said. With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and AP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine--russian-kyiv-air- strikes/32434704.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IAEA Chief Puts Forth 5 Principles to Protect Zaporozhye NPP Sputnik News 20230530 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi on Tuesday proposed five principles to protect the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant, including a ban on shelling toward and from the site. "I have identified the following concrete principles to help ensure nuclear safety and security at ZNPP in order to prevent a nuclear accident and ensure the integrity of the plant," Grossi told a UN Security Council. "There should be no attack of any kind from or against the plant, in particular targeting the reactors, spent fuel storage, other critical infrastructure, or personnel; ZNPP should not be used as storage or a base for heavy weapons (i.e. multiple rocket launchers, artillery systems and munitions, and tanks) or military personnel that could be used for an attack from the plant." Off-site power to the plant should not be put at risk either, and every effort should be made to ensure that off-site power remains available and secure at all times, he added. "All structures, systems and components essential to the safe and secure operation of ZNPP should be protected from attacks or acts of sabotage," Grossi stated. "No action should be taken that undermines these principles." The IAEA chief also reiterated the seven pillars for ensuring nuclear safety and security that he laid out a year ago, including effective on-site and off-site radiation monitoring systems, as well as emergency preparedness and response measures at the Zaporozhye NPP. Grossi's proposal came as Moscow's envoy to the UN Vassily Nebenzia told the panel that Russia has never deployed troops, heavy weapons or ammunitions on the territory of the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant. "The plant has never seen any heavy weapons or their munitions placed on its territory, nor is there any military personnel present at the power plant that could be used to carry out an attack from the plant's territory," Nebenzia said during a meeting of the UN Security Council. Russia would take all the necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the plant in accordance with its legislation and obligations to international legal instrument to which the country is a party. The Zaporozhye NPP came under the control of Russian forces in March 2022 but has been the focus of nuclear safety concerns for months as it has been repeatedly shelled amid ongoing hostilities. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Putin Confirms Russian Strike on Ukrainian Military Intel HQ in Kiev Sputnik News 20230530 Ilya Tsukanov Earlier, Ukrainian media reported that the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense had been hit in an overnight Russian missile strike. The strike followed a series of threats by senior Main Intelligence Directorate officials to "kill Russians" around the world. Russian President Vladimir Putin has confirmed that Russia carried out an attack on the headquarters of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine's Defense Ministry in Kiev. "Since the start of the special military operation, the Russian Armed Forces are striking Ukraine, but using high-precision weapons. They are targeting military infrastructure, arms depots and other targets that could be used for military action," Putin said, speaking to a reporter at an economic exhibition on Tuesday. "We've already mentioned that we can strike decision-making centers and headquarters. Obviously, the Military Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine's headquarters is also such a target. And in response, as you are well aware, the Kiev regime chose a different path, a path to try to intimidate Russia and its citizens, to try to target residential buildings. It is an obvious indicator of terrorist activity," Putin said, referring to Tuesday morning's attempted drone attack on the Russian capital. The president expressed contentment with the state of Moscow's air defenses, saying they had worked "in a satisfactory manner" in deflecting Tuesday's morning attack, although "there's still some progress to be made." "We've faced similar problems in Khmeimim in Syria, although of course the size of the territories of our airbase in Syria and Moscow are not comparable, because Moscow is a huge city...But it's obvious what needs to be done to make the air defenses around our capital city better, and we will do that," Putin said. Putin said he was concerned by Kiev's apparent attempt to push Russia into a mirror response. "We'll see what we do with this," he said, while expressing hope that ordinary Ukrainians will come to recognize what their government is pushing them towards, not only through the drone attack on Moscow, but attempts to target the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant. The Russian president also delved into a bit of history surrounding the Ukrainian crisis, saying that after the collapse of the USSR in 1991, the country came under the control of people seeking to create a Western-backed "anti-Russia." At the same time, he said, NATO, after decades of expansion - despite commitments to Moscow not to do so, had found its way to Ukraine's doorstep, declaring its doors open to Kiev at the alliance's Bucharest Summit in 2008. "It's not enough that they lied to us when they said that there would be no eastward expansion of NATO. They've even reached Ukraine. And in 2014, as you are well aware, carried out a coup d'etat and started to eliminate everyone who wanted to have normal relations with Russia in one way or another. Besides this, they started a war in the Donbass, and then lied to everyone when they said they want to resolve the situation with peaceful means. Now they admit openly that they were lying, and that they just wanted to win some time to muster their forces" in preparation for a conflict with Russia, Putin said. Strike on Ukrainian Defense Ministry's Main Intelligence Directorate Putin's comments follow reports in Ukrainian and Russian media earlier in the day that Russia had attacked and destroyed the headquarters of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry's Main Intelligence Directorate in Kiev in a missile strike. Traffic along the bridge leading to to the island where the directorate is based was blocked off in the early hours of May 30. The Ukrainian MoD's Main Intelligence Directorate is responsible for coordinating sabotage, terror and drone attacks inside Russia. In recent weeks, its senior officials have made a series of unambiguous statements about the need to ramp up efforts to "kill Russians," both in Russia and around the world. "All I will comment on is that we've been killing Russians and we will keep killing Russians anywhere on the face of this world until the complete victory of Ukraine," Military Intelligence Directorate head Kyrylo Budanov said in an interview with US media earlier this month, after being asked to comment on whether Kiev was involved in last year's murder of Russian journalist Daria Dugina. Several weeks later, Budanov confirmed to German media that the list of his agency's targets include Russia's president. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Reacts Harshly to Ukrainian Terrorist Attacks With NATO Weapons - Shoigu Sputnik News 20230530 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian armed forces are reacting as harshly as possible to terrorist attacks by Ukraine against civilians in Russia using NATO weapons, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday. "Using NATO weapons, the Kiev authorities continue to strike at social facilities, carry out terrorist attacks against peaceful Russian citizens. Our armed forces react as harshly as possible to the actions of Ukrainian militants," Shoigu said at a conference call. The Western support to Kiev only prolongs the conflict but will not affect the outcome of Moscow's special military operation, Shoigu said. "Military support for Ukraine only prolongs the hostilities, but cannot affect the outcome of the special military operation," the minister said. Shoigu also said that the West supplies more and more military equipment to Ukraine. "We monitor the amount and routes of supply and, when we detect them, we strike," Shoigu said. The defense minister added that Western curators continue to demand from Ukraine to launch mass offensive operations. "Despite the significant losses of Ukrainian armed forces, Western curators continue to demand that the Kiev regime switch to large-scale offensive operations," Shoigu said. Ukraine lost more than 16,000 military in May as a result of the military operation, Shoigu said. "Groups of Russian troops continue to inflict effective fire damage on the enemy. This month alone, its [Ukraine's] losses amounted to over 16,000 military," Shoigu said during a conference call. Ukraine also lost 16 aircraft, five helicopters, 466 unmanned aerial vehicles, more than 400 tanks and other armored fighting vehicles, 238 field artillery pieces and mortars, the minister added. Additionally, Russian air defense systems intercepted and destroyed 29 UK Storm Shadow cruise missiles and almost 200 HIMARS long-range guided missiles in May, Shoigu said, adding that Russian troops have recently hit another US Patriot anti-aircraft missile system in Kiev. The drone attack carried out by Ukraine early on Tuesday targeted civilian facilities of Moscow, minister said. "This morning, the Kiev regime carried out a terrorist act in the Moscow region. I would like to note that it was against civilian targets. Eight aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles were involved in it. All of them were hit," Shoigu said during a conference call. Ukraine attacked the Russian capital with eight unmanned aerial vehicles early on Tuesday, all drones were shot down, the Russian Defense Ministry said. Three of these drones were suppressed by means of electronic warfare, lost control and deviated from their intended targets, another five unmanned aerial vehicles were shot down by the Pantsir-S anti-aircraft missile and gun system in the Moscow region, the ministry added. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kremlin on UAV Attack on Moscow: This is Kiev's 'Response' to Russia's Successful Strike Sputnik News 20230530 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Tuesday drone attack on Moscow was Kiev's response to Russia's successful strikes on one of the Ukrainian decision-making centers on Sunday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. "It is clear that we are talking about the response of the Kiev regime to our very effective strikes in the center, one of the decision-making centers. This strike took place on Sunday," Peskov told reporters. The spokesman added that it is "necessary to understand" that the drone attack was carried out by the Kiev regime. "This once again confirms the need to continue this special military operation and achieve the set goals," Peskov said. Russian President was briefed about the drone attack on Moscow by the Defense Ministry, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, local authorities in Moscow and the Moscow region, Peskov said. "Today, the president's working day started very early. He received information directly from the Defense Ministry and from the relevant departments, information from the mayor of Moscow, the governor of the Moscow region, from the Ministry of Emergency Situations," Peskov told reporters. The spokesman added that the president does not have any "special plans" to address Russian citizens after the attack of Ukrainian drones on Moscow. Earlier in the day, Moscow Region Governor Andrey Vorobyov said that several drones had been shot down while approaching Moscow. The Russian capital's mayor, Sergey Sobyanin, said several buildings had been slightly damaged by the drone attack. Nobody was seriously injured, he added. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia's New Top-Notch Eye in the Sky to Spy on Kiev's Military Facilities - Source Sputnik News 20230530 Satellite reconnaissance provides high-quality data that can be used for various purposes. Data collected this way can be used to track the movement of troops, ships, and aircraft, and to monitor the activities of other countries. A new Russian radar satellite will be able to conduct reconnaissance against Ukrainian military facilities as often as twice a day, a source told Sputnik. "The new Kondor-FKA radar satellite, which was launched into orbit on Saturday, will be used for reconnaissance of Ukrainian military installations. It will pass over Ukraine on average twice a day and is capable of detecting military objects in radar range with a resolution of one meter," a source said. He added that "regardless of the time of day or weather, the satellite will make it possible to observe, for example, the concentration of enemy troops, the movement of equipment or the construction of new fortifications. The developers emphasize that the Kondor-FKA is capable of obtaining detailed images of the Earth's surface with a resolution of up to one meter under any weather conditions and at all times of the day. According to space portals, the Kondor-FSA has been code-named COSMOS-2569 by NORAD (North American Space and Air Defence Command). The Kondor satellites were developed by NPO Engineering. Two previous-generation satellites were launched in 2013 and 2014. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Attacked Moscow With 8 UAVs, All Drones Downed - Russian Defense Ministry Sputnik News 20230530 Earlier in the day, the Russian capital's mayor, Sergey Sobyanin, said several buildings had been slightly damaged by the drone attack. Ukraine attacked the Russian capital with eight unmanned aerial vehicles early on Tuesday, all drones were shot down, the Russian Defense Ministry said. "This morning, the Kiev regime launched a terrorist attack with unmanned aerial vehicles on facilities in the city of Moscow. Eight aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles were involved in the attack. All enemy drones were hit," the ministry said in a statement. Three of these drones were suppressed by means of electronic warfare, lost control and deviated from their intended targets, another five unmanned aerial vehicles were shot down by the Pantsir-S anti-aircraft missile and gun system in the Moscow region, the ministry added. Earlier in the day, Moscow Region Governor Andrey Vorobyov said that several drones had been shot down while approaching Moscow. The Russian capital's mayor, Sergey Sobyanin, said several buildings had been slightly damaged by the drone attack. Nobody was seriously injured, he added. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Still Considering Supplying Ukraine With ATACMS Missile Systems Sputnik News 20230530 WASHINGTON(Sputnik) - The United States is still considering supplying Ukraine with Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), US President Joe Biden said. "That's still in play," Biden told reporters shortly before his departure from Washington to the state of Delaware, answering a relevant question. US National Security Council Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby said earlier in May that the US still did not plan to transfer ATACMS to Ukraine. The ATACMS Missiles can hit targets 190 miles away and can be fired from launchers already provided to Ukraine from the West, including the HIMARS mobile launchers and the older M270 launchers. Western countries have been supplying Kiev with different types of weapon systems, including air defense missiles, multiple launch rocket systems, tanks, self-propelled artillery and anti-aircraft guns since Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine over a year ago. The Kremlin has repeatedly warned against further arms deliveries to Kiev. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Shane Dalmedo Selected for Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition 2023 Gibraltar Cultural Services, for the Ministry of Culture, has announced that Sunday Drive a sculpture by artist Shane Dalmedo has been selected for the 2023 Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition. Out of the approximate 16,000 works that have been submitted, only 1000 have been accepted for the exhibition. GCS, working on behalf of HMGOG, has assisted the artist, as part of their cultural development programme, by providing funding towards the cost of transporting the artwork to UK. This is in keeping with the Governments commitment to promote local artists abroad. The Summer Exhibition is the worlds largest open submission exhibition, bringing together a display of art of all mediums by leading artists within the Royal Academy, as well as new and emerging artists. Shane is a prolific artist and a well-known figure in the local art community. Her piece focuses on confinement and connection relating to her experiences of Covid and her memories of the frontier closure years. She is also gaining popularity internationally, having over the last few years exhibited her works at numerous galleries and events in the UK, Spain, and Morocco. His Majestys Government of Gibraltar congratulates Shane on this extraordinary achievement. Minister for Culture John Cortes commented, Many congratulations to Shane for this well- deserved recognition of her work. Shane, like so many other Gibraltarian artists, works continuously in developing her art and promoting Gibraltar through Culture. Coordination of agreements of the President of Ukraine: online meeting with representatives of the Office of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom took place in the Office of the President of Ukraine President of Ukraine 30 May 2023 - 22:21 On behalf of the President and the Head of the Presidential Office and in order to coordinate the implementation of the agreements reached by Volodymyr Zelenskyy following the talks with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Rishi Sunak during his visit to the United Kingdom and participation in the G7 Summit, Deputy Heads of the Presidential Office Ihor Zhovkva, Roman Mashovets and Andriy Sybiha held a video call with the UK delegation headed by National Security Adviser to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Timothy Barrow and Chief of the Defense Staff, Chief Military Advisor to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Antony Radakin. The meeting was also attended by First Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine Lieutenant General Oleksandr Pavliuk, Deputy Ministers of Defense Oleksandr Polishchuk and Denys Sharapov, First Deputy Minister for Strategic Industries Oleh Mozhnyi and others. The main topic of the conversation was strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities and providing our country with effective security guarantees on its way to NATO membership. The relevant decisions are to be made at the NATO Summit in Vilnius in July this year. Ihor Zhovkva thanked the UK for its strong support for Ukraine, in particular in the issues of military assistance, leadership in supplying advanced weapons to bolster defense capabilities, and a leading role in creating an aviation coalition. "The aviation coalition aimed at implementing the aviation component of the Ukrainian concept "Ukraine's Sky Shield" should start working in the near future: from training Ukrainian pilots now to getting Western-type combat aircraft in the shortest possible time," he said. The Deputy Head of the Office of the President noted the effective highest-level dialogue that Ukraine and the UK managed to establish on these issues. For his part, Roman Mashovets informed in detail about the current situation at the front, the ongoing Russian missile attacks on civilian infrastructure, and Ukraine's urgent needs for specific types and quantities of weapons that should be delivered as soon as possible. The British side was thoroughly informed about the conditions that would accelerate the de-occupation of Ukrainian territories and protect Ukrainian citizens from Russian terror. The interlocutors also discussed the implementation of the Ukrainian Peace Formula and the need to involve as many countries as possible, including the Global South, in the Global Peace Summit. The parties agreed that Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak would soon discuss the format, specific date and venue of the Global Peace Summit with his counterparts from other countries. The importance of the International Conference on Ukraine's Recovery to be held in London in June was emphasized. The participants agreed that the Conference should help attract investment and increase financial support for Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address We continue consolidating partners to make Ukrainian air defense as effective as possible - address by the President of Ukraine President of Ukraine 30 May 2023 - 22:11 Good health to you, fellow Ukrainians! A brief report on this day. A pretty loud day. First, I thank our Air Force and all the defenders of the sky for repelling another night raid by Russian drones. Again and again, I thank our warriors for every downed Shahed, for every downed Russian missile. Because it always means saved lives, saved infrastructure. Second, unfortunately, there were hits, unfortunately, there were falling debris with the corresponding consequences, unfortunately, there were losses... My condolences! It is very, very important to take air raid alerts into account and not to take them carelessly. I want all the local authorities responsible for specific communities and territories to hear me now. Shelters in cities should be accessible. People need to understand when and how the number and availability of shelters will increase. This is the responsibility of specific officials, and it is a specific responsibility. Third, we continue to consolidate our partners to make Ukrainian air defense as effective as possible. Russian terror must be defeated every day and every night, in every region of Ukraine, in the skies of every Ukrainian city and village. When any attack by Russian terrorists ends in failure for the terrorists, their defeats will become a source of our long-term security. Today I spoke with German Chancellor Scholz, in particular about air defense. I thanked him for the air defense systems already provided to Ukraine, that is, for the lives of our people already saved by Germany. We also discussed the overall defense situation and our security cooperation. On the eve of important international events that will take place shortly, we are coming up with common positions and decisions. And I thank Olaf, Mr. Chancellor, for his personal determination, which in many ways becomes the determination of the whole of Europe. Fourth, I spoke with representatives of the powerful British defense company BAE Systems. This is a truly large-scale weapons manufacturer - the weapons that we need now and that we will need in the future to ensure the security of our country and the entire region. We are working to create an appropriate base for production and repair in Ukraine. We are talking about a wide range of weapons: from tanks to artillery. We will provide Ukraine, and thus the whole of Europe, with this new foundation of strength. Fifth, today I met with the delegation of one of the world's leading think tanks, the American Atlantic Council. It was a good, useful conversation to protect our common values, those of everyone in the world who cherishes freedom. I informed the Atlantic Council representatives about our current main defense needs in the confrontation. We discussed the steps that bring the creation of a new aviation coalition closer. We are steadily moving closer to this result - to providing our warriors with modern fighter jets. And I thank all the people of the United States, each and every one in the political community who supports us, I thank President Biden personally and both parties in Congress. Now, in Ukraine, on our land, in our sky, it is being decided whether freedom and civilization will retain global leadership in this century. Decided by us, together with America, together with Europe, together with all our allies and partners. I thank everyone in the world who helps us! And, of course, today, as always, I thank our warriors. All those who are now fighting for Ukraine. All those who are on combat missions. At combat posts. The Avdiivka sector, Bakhmut, Maryinka, Shakhtarsk sector. I thank everyone who defends our positions in Luhansk and Kharkiv regions. I am grateful to each and every one who defends Zaporizhzhia and Kherson region. I thank everyone who keeps our border strong. Our brigades that are fighting. Our brigades that are ready to move forward. And our intelligence. Our security forces. On all fronts and at all levels, the enemy must feel that Ukraine has become stronger. Glory to our heroes! Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Coordination of agreements of the President of Ukraine: video call with representatives of political and security leadership of Poland took place President of Ukraine 30 May 2023 - 21:37 On behalf of the President of Ukraine and in order to coordinate the implementation of the agreements reached during Volodymyr Zelenskyy's official visit to the Republic of Poland in early April, Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak, together with other members of the President's and government's team, held a scheduled video call with Secretary of State - Head of the International Policy Bureau at the Presidential Chancellery of the Republic of Poland Marcin Przydacz. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Heads of the Presidential Office Roman Mashovets, Ihor Zhovkva, Andriy Sybiha, Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis, First Deputy Minister of Defense Lieutenant General Oleksandr Pavliuk, Deputy Ministers of Defense Oleksandr Polishchuk and Volodymyr Havrylov, First Deputy Minister for Strategic Industries Oleh Mozhnyi and others. The Polish side was represented by Secretary of State, Head of the National Security Bureau of the Republic of Poland Jacek Siewiera, and Minister-Member of the Council of Ministers of Poland MichaA Dworczyk. Andriy Yermak thanked for the effective support of the President and the Government of Poland in strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities. He also emphasized the importance of Poland's leadership in promoting Ukraine's Euro-Atlantic aspirations. The Polish delegation was briefed on the current challenges facing our country due to the Russian invasion, the current situation at the front, the actions of the Russian occupiers, and Russia's missile attacks on civilian infrastructure and Ukrainian citizens. The Ukrainian side emphasized that Western air defense systems are critical for reliable protection against enemy ballistic missile attacks. Representatives of the Office of the President and the Ukrainian Defense Forces discussed with the Polish delegation the state of bilateral cooperation in the field of defense support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Deputy Head of the Office of the President Ihor Zhovkva outlined the expectations of the Ukrainian side from the NATO Summit in Vilnius to be held in July. It was noted that Ukraine expects the allies to agree on a clear algorithm for Ukraine's movement towards NATO. Andriy Yermak also outlined in detail the Ukrainian side's vision of security guarantees for Ukraine on its way to the Alliance and emphasized the importance of the most ambitious and concrete decisions of the NATO Summit in Vilnius. During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on further steps to implement the Peace Formula of the President of Ukraine and prepare for the Global Peace Summit. The Polish side was briefed on the results of Volodymyr Zelenskyy's participation in the summits of the Arab League and the Group of Seven. "Ukraine will never compromise on its territories. No negotiations with Russia are possible until it withdraws its troops from the territory of Ukraine," the Head of the Presidential Office emphasized. Following the meeting, the parties agreed to continue close coordination and cooperation between Ukraine and Poland in order to strengthen our country's capabilities in protecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ihor Zhovkva participated in the 18th GLOBSEC-2023 International Security Forum President of Ukraine 30 May 2023 - 20:10 Pursuant to the instruction of Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak, Deputy Head of the Office of the President Ihor Zhovkva took part online in the GLOBSEC-2023 International Forum held on May 29-31 in Bratislava (Slovakia). This year's event attended by more than 1,300 representatives from 63 countries is dedicated primarily to Ukraine, its support and the search for ways to accelerate the restoration of lasting peace and security in the region. The important topics of the event were: Ukrainian Peace Formula, Euro-Atlantic integration and preparations for the NATO Summit in Vilnius, Ukraine's victory approaching and effective security guarantees for our country. Ihor Zhovkva opened one of the panel discussions of the second day of the forum "Peace Now: How?". In his speech, he outlined in detail the essence of the Ukrainian Peace Formula proposed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and emphasized that it has no alternative as a basis for achieving peace in Ukraine. "Since the war is taking place on the territory of Ukraine, it is up to Ukrainians to decide on the conditions under which it should end and what a just peace should look like," the Deputy Head of the Presidential Office emphasized. According to Ihor Zhovkva, the Ukrainian Peace Formula was discussed in detail during the G7 Summit in Japan with the leaders of both the G7 countries and some countries of the Global South, as well as at the Arab League Summit in Saudi Arabia. "We are currently working on the widest possible involvement of the international community, including the countries of the Global South, in the implementation of the formula and holding the Global Peace Summit in the near future," the Deputy Head of the Presidential Office emphasized. At the same time, he noted that the "peace initiatives" of other states can only be taken into account if they unequivocally condemn Russian aggression and, as a first step, provide for the complete and unconditional withdrawal of all Russian troops from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized 1991 borders. He emphasized the importance of consistent implementation of all ten points of the formula, which will end at the negotiating table with the definition of the conditions for further coexistence of the two states. In conclusion, Ihor Zhovkva emphasized: "Ukraine is unwavering in its desire for a truly just and lasting peace. Any proposals for negotiations by the aggressor state that provide for the suspension of hostilities and allow Russia to build up its forces are absolutely unacceptable." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address President of Ukraine had a meeting with the Atlantic Council delegation President of Ukraine 30 May 2023 - 18:53 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with a delegation of the Atlantic Council, a leading American non-governmental think tank, led by the organization's CEO Frederick Kempe. The delegation consisted of Board members John Rogers, David Petraeus and John Herbst. The Head of State thanked for the visit to Ukraine, which is another important signal of support from the United States. "I thank President Biden and the entire American people for their strong support of Ukraine from the very beginning of Russian aggression. We appreciate the bicameral and bipartisan support of the U.S. Congress," Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized. He noted that Ukraine defends democratic values shared by both states and our peoples. "This is a fight for freedom, for the future of the world," the President said. At the request of the Atlantic Council representatives, the Head of State informed them of the main defense needs of Ukraine. He also praised the decision of U.S. President Joseph Biden to launch an aviation coalition and start training Ukrainian pilots on modern Western fighter jets. Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed about the situation on the frontline and gave a prediction of its development in the near future. He emphasized that in recent days, the Russian aggressor had significantly intensified its missile terror and was conducting massive strikes on Ukrainian cities, primarily on civilian infrastructure and civilians. During the meeting, the issue of Ukraine's expectations from the NATO Summit in Vilnius was raised. The President emphasized that it is important for Ukraine to receive a clear signal about the prospects of membership in the Alliance. "This will be a powerful motivational factor for our army, for the entire Ukrainian people," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. He also told the Atlantic Council delegation about the progress of reforms in our country, which continue despite Russian aggression. At the end of the meeting, Frederick Kempe presented the President with the Global Citizen Award, with which the Atlantic Council honors the world leaders who have made an outstanding contribution to the development of transatlantic relations. "This is an honor for the entire Ukrainian people. For their courage and heroic struggle," the Head of State emphasized receiving the award. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address President discussed localization of production in Ukraine with representatives of the British company BAE Systems President of Ukraine 30 May 2023 - 18:24 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a video call with representatives of the British defense company BAE Systems: CEO Charles Woodburn, Managing Director Gabby Costigan and Director for cooperation with Ukraine Christian Seear. The participants agreed to start work on opening a BAE Systems office in Ukraine, and later on, repair and production facilities for the company's products. "We are interested in direct relations with your company, without any intermediaries, not only now, but also in the long term. We are ready to become a major regional hub for the repair and production of various types of your company's products and are interested in making our relations more global," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. The Head of State emphasized the importance of strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities in the face of a full-scale Russian invasion, as well as supplying our country with new models and types of weapons. According to the President, Ukraine is interested in increasing its own production capacity in cooperation with partners. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IAEA chief outlines five principles to avert nuclear 'catastrophe' in Ukraine 30 May 2023 - The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Tuesday urged the UN Security Council to unambiguously support five principles aimed at preventing a nuclear accident amid the war in Ukraine, now in its 15th month. Delivering his latest update, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi reported that the situation at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) - the largest in Europe - remains extremely fragile and dangerous. Military operations continue in the region "and may well increase very considerably in the near future," he warned. Rolling the dice The Zaporizhzhya plant has come under fire during the war. It has lost off-site power seven times and had to rely on emergency diesel generators - "the last line of defence against a nuclear accident," he said. "We are fortunate that a nuclear accident has not yet happened," Mr. Grossi told ambassadors. "As I said at the IAEA Board of Governors last March - we are rolling a dice and if this continues then one day, our luck will run out. So, we must all do everything in our power to minimize the chance that it does." A specific request Mr. Grossi recalled that the Ukraine crisis marks the first time in history that a war is being fought amid the facilities of a major nuclear power programme. He said several of the country's five nuclear plants and other facilities have come under direct shelling, and all nuclear plants have lost off-site power at some point. The IAEA has maintained a presence at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant since September. The site was occupied by Russian forces in the early days of the conflict, with a "significantly reduced" Ukrainian staff carrying out operations. Throughout the conflict, the IAEA chief has repeatedly promoted seven indispensable pillars for nuclear safety and security, which include maintaining the physical integrity of facilities and ensuring secure off-site power supply. "The time has come to be more specific as to what is required. We must prevent a dangerous release of radioactive material," he said. Five concrete principles Following extensive consultations, including with the sides, Mr. Grossi developed five concrete principles essential for averting "a catastrophic incident" at the Zaporizhzhya plant. "There should be no attack of any kind from or against the plant, in particular targeting the reactors, spent fuel storage, other critical infrastructure, or personnel," he said, outlining the first point. The nuclear plant also should not be used as storage or a base for heavy weapons, such as multiple rocket launchers, or military personnel that could be used for an attack emanating from it. Off-site power to the plant should not be put at risk, and all efforts should be made to ensure it always remains available and secure, he said. Furthermore, all structures, systems and components essential to the safe and secure operation of the plant should be protected from attacks or sabotage. Finally, no action should be taken that undermines the principles. "Let me say something very clearly: These principles are to no one's detriment and to everyone's benefit. Avoiding a nuclear accident is possible. Abiding by the IAEA's five principles is the way to start," said Mr. Grossi. Principles are aligned: Russia Russian Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya said his country has made every effort to prevent threats to the safety of the Zaporizhzhya plant, which he attributed to Ukraine and its "Western backers". "The shellings carried out by Ukraine of the power plant are absolutely unacceptable, and Mr. Grossi's proposals to ensure the security of the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant are in line with the measures that we've already been implementing for a long time, in accordance with decisions taken at the national level," he said. He added that no attacks were ever carried out from the territory of the plant. Additionally, heavy weapons or munitions were never placed there, nor are there any military personnel present who could be used to carry out an attack. "In the current conditions, Russia intends to take all possible measures to strengthen the safety and security of the power plant in accordance with our national legislation and our obligations under relevant international legal instruments to which our country is a party," he said. Withdraw from the plant: Ukraine Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya also addressed the Council. He said Russia continues to use the nuclear plant for military purposes and has deployed roughly 500 military personnel and 50 units of heavy weaponry there, as well as equipment, munitions and explosives. "We reiterate that by illegally occupying ZNPP and making it an element of its military strategy, Russia has violated all key international principles of nuclear safety and security and the vast majority of its obligations under international treaties," he said. Mr. Kyslytsya recommended that the IAEA principles should also include withdrawal of Russian troops and personnel illegally present at the plant, guarantees of uninterrupted power supply to the facility, and a humanitarian corridor to ensure the safe and orderly rotation of staff. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Latest in Ukraine: IAEA Chief Presents Principles for Preventing a Nuclear Accident in Ukraine By Margaret Besheer May 30, 2023 Latest developments: Drone attacks hit Moscow, causing damage to two buildings; Russia blames Ukraine, while U.S. says it is still collecting information on the matter. The United States will provide another $300 million in new military aid for Ukraine in a package that is expected to include munitions for Ukraine's Patriot missile defense system, defense officials tell VOA. U.S. President Joe Biden discussed Sweden's NATO bid with newly reelected Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency said the world is "fortunate" that a nuclear accident has not yet happened in Ukraine and issued a set of five principles to help ensure the safety and security of Europe's largest nuclear power plant, which is located in the country. "I see these commitments as essential to avoid the danger of a catastrophic incident," IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told the U.N. Security Council in a briefing Tuesday about the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (ZNPP). The five principles include committing to no attack of any kind against or from the plant; not using it as storage or a base for heavy weapons or military personnel; not putting the plant's off-site power supply at risk; protection of all structure, systems and components essential to the safe and secure operation of the ZNPP; and not acting in a way that would undermine these principles. "What we are doing is giving ourselves a better tool to deal with a very bad situation," the IAEA chief told reporters of the five principles. The Zaporizhzhia plant, which Russia seized in March 2022, has repeatedly been in the crossfire of shelling. It has lost off-site power seven times and had to rely on emergency diesel generators to prevent a nuclear accident. The last such incident was on May 22. Grossi called on both Russia, which occupies the plant, and Ukraine, which owns it, to observe the principles. He also called on council members to "unambiguously" support them. He said the IAEA would immediately start monitoring implementation of these principles through its own team at the ZNPP and would "report publicly" on any violations. Each side has repeatedly accused the other of militarily targeting the plant. Russia is a permanent member of the Security Council. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Moscow has taken specific steps to protect the most sensitive installations and components of the ZNPP. "Russia will take the most severe measures to respond to any attacks by Ukraine against the nuclear power plant, its critical infrastructure, including its power lines, as well as the city of Enerhodar that is home to the personnel of the power plant and their families," he told the council. Ukraine's envoy said his government has never done anything that could lead to a nuclear incident at the facility, saying Kyiv realizes the "catastrophic consequences" that would have for Ukraine and its neighbors. "To ultimately remove the nuclear stress stemming from the illegal Russian presence at the plant, the troops and weaponry must be withdrawn, the station must be de-occupied and returned under the legitimate, full control of Ukraine," Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya said. He also urged the IAEA chief to expand his five principles to include guarantees of an uninterrupted power supply and a humanitarian corridor to ensure the safe rotation of staff at the power plant. Grossi told reporters he hopes to return to Ukraine "soon" and would also "expect to be visiting Russia" as part of his diplomacy to engage with both sides. Drone attacks Earlier Tuesday, Russia blamed Ukraine for a drone attack on Moscow, as Russian forces carried out their 17th aerial attack this month against the Ukrainian capital. Russia's Defense Ministry said it either shot down or diverted eight drones that targeted the Moscow area, but Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the attack damaged two residential buildings and injured two people. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that President Vladimir Putin was briefed on the situation. Interviewed on the "Breakfast Show" YouTube channel on Tuesday, Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said Kyiv had "nothing directly to do" with the latest drone attacks in on Moscow but was "pleased to watch and predict an increase in the number of attacks." In Washington, a State Department spokesman said the U.S. was still collecting information on what happened. The spokesman said the U.S. does not support attacks inside Russia but rather is focused on supplying arms to Kyiv to help Ukrainian troops retake territory that Russia captured during its 15-month invasion. The latest drone attack followed one in early May that Russian officials said targeted the Kremlin. Russia blamed Ukraine for that strike, as well. Earlier Tuesday, Russia carried out what Ukrainian officials called a "massive attack" targeting Kyiv with more than 20 Iranian-made drones that Ukraine's air defenses destroyed. Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv's military administration, said debris from Tuesday's attack hit an apartment building and sparked a fire, killing at least one person and injuring three others. He said debris also damaged cars and a house in other parts of the city. Russian forces have subjected Kyiv to an intensified campaign of attacks ahead of an expected Ukrainian counteroffensive that Kyiv has said will seek to reclaim territory Russia seized in eastern Ukraine since it launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. "Each such terrorist attack brings us and the whole world to an obvious conclusion: Russia wants to follow the path of evil to the end a that is, to its defeat, because evil cannot have any other end but defeat," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his nightly address Monday. "The world must see that terror is losing." VOA's Cindy Saine contributed to this report. Some information was provided by The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Scottsdale, May 30, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Scottsdale, Arizona - Scottsdale, AZ based Vascular & Interventional Partners is pleased to share that they have added a new service that specializes in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) and Pulsatile Tinnitus. Given the serious impact on quality of life these conditions can have, the organization looks forward to helping more patients regain both their health and peace of mind. The main issue with IIH is the fact that the cause of this condition has yet to be identified. However, a diagnosis may be made based on the presence of certain factors. For instance, the pressure of the patients cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the fluid that surrounds the brain, may be too high. An elevated CSF pressure can then lead to two identifiable symptoms: a severe headache and loss of vision. In time, should the condition remain untreated, it can also lead to vision loss or permanent blindness. Vascular & Interventional Partners points out here that Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension is a rare neurological condition, so it is unlikely that the average patient will have this precise issue. However, other conditions may cause severe headaches or vision loss (among other symptoms), and the severity of these symptoms should never be ignored. As such, patients are advised not to hesitate to seek treatment if they notice a splitting headache, vision impairment or other serious health problem. In addition to vision problems and a headache, Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertensions symptoms may include fatigue, nausea and vomiting, neck and shoulder pain, tinnitus and so on. These symptoms are not exclusively caused by IIH, so patients should always visit their healthcare provider for a full evaluation. Early diagnosis tends to be crucial for positive outcomes no matter what the root cause may be. According to the clinic, IIH can occur in patients of any age, but it is known to present more often in women between the ages of 20 and 50. Among patients who have been identified with IIH, the vast majority are women. Vascular & Interventional Partners says that the likelihood of IIH may be exacerbated by other risk factors, such as a BMI over 30 and chronic kidney disease. Unfortunately, the exact cause of this condition has yet to be fully determined. Vascular & Interventional Partners is pleased to confirm that their team prefers a minimally invasive approach wherever possible. When IIH is diagnosed, they may elect to implement a series of medications and lifestyle changes to help the patient relieve their symptoms and achieve a higher quality of life once more. However, in severe cases, this may not be possible. If so, the clinic is still able to offer more advanced procedures. Patients will be given a full list of options during their consultation with the clinic if necessary. Pulsatile Tinnitus is also characterized by symptoms that center around the head. Here, the patient may experience a thumping sensation in their ears, a rhythmic noise that appears to follow their heartbeat. Typically, other types of tinnitus are characterized by a ringing or buzzing sound, caused perhaps by damage to the eardrums (such as by overexposure to extremely loud noises). According to the clinic, Pulsatile Tinnitus is caused by blood flow circulating in the arteries and veins near the ears in a manner that creates an audible noise. While irritating and disruptive, it can be treated. Since this condition can be caused by a number of issues, the clinics first order of business is to locate the source of a patients Pulsatile Tinnitus. This assessment will allow the clinic to devise a suitable remedy based on the treatment of the underlying condition, and they assert that it is possible to minimize its symptoms via medication and lifestyle changes. Minimally invasive interventional radiology techniques may also be utilized if deemed necessary. Vascular and Interventional Partners takes pride in their patient-centered approach to care. Where applicable, they utilize the latest minimally invasive techniques and technologies to provide effective and personalized treatment options. Their team of interventional radiologists is highly trained and experienced in the treatment of a wide range of issues, and every treatment they offer is accompanied by a deep understanding of the underlying medical conditions that can cause the condition in question. Patients are welcome to contact the clinic today to schedule a consultation. Vascular & Interventional Partners can be reached via phone or email. ### For more information about Vascular & Interventional Partners, contact the company here: Vascular & Interventional Partners Dr. Christopher Goettl (480) 435-9100 referrals@VIPinterventional.com 22455 N Miller Rd #B100 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Dublin, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Tobacco Market (2023-2028) by Type, Product Type, Distribution Channel, and Geography, Competitive Analysis, Impact of Economic Slowdown & Impending Recession with Ansoff Analysis" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Global Tobacco Market is estimated to be USD 1.08 Tn in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 1.25 Tn by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 3.02%. Market Dynamics Drivers Growing Consumption of Cigarettes Adopted Unique Product Promotion and Marketing Strategies by Tobacco Manufacturers Several Tobacco Products Available in the Market Significant Source of Tax Revenue for Governments Restraints Surge in the Number of Nicotine Replacement Theories Tobacco's Adverse Effects Stringent Regulations of Tobacco Production and Sales Opportunities Growing Interest in Flavored and Innovative Smokeless Tobacco Products Increasing Usage of Dry Smokeless Tobacco Surge in Investments in the Research and Development of New Tobacco Products Rising Sustainability in Tobacco Industry Challenges Rising Awareness about Health Concerns Related to Tobacco Consumption Market Segmentations The Global Tobacco Market is segmented based on Type, Product Type, Distribution Channel, and Geography. By Type, the market is classified into Virginia, Burley, Nicotiana rustica, Oriental, and Others. By Product Type, the market is classified into Cigarettes, Cigars and Cigarillos, Smoking Tobacco, and Smokeless Tobacco. By Distribution Channel, the market is classified into Supermarket/Hypermarket, Convenience Stores, Specialty Stores, and Other Distribution Channels. By Geography, the market is classified into Americas, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Asia-Pacific. Countries Studied America (Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, United States, Rest of Americas) Europe (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Rest of Europe) Middle-East and Africa (Egypt, Israel, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Rest of MEA) Asia-Pacific (Australia, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Taiwan, Rest of Asia-Pacific) Competitive Quadrant The report includes a Competitive Quadrant, a proprietary tool to analyze and evaluate the position of companies based on their Industry Position score and Market Performance score. The tool uses various factors for categorizing the players into four categories. Some of these factors considered for analysis are financial performance over the last 3 years, growth strategies, innovation score, new product launches, investments, growth in market share, etc. Ansoff Analysis The report presents a detailed Ansoff matrix analysis for the Global Tobacco Market. Ansoff Matrix, also known as Product/Market Expansion Grid, is a strategic tool used to design strategies for growth of the company. The matrix can be used to evaluate approaches in four strategies viz. Market Development, Market Penetration, Product Development and Diversification. The matrix is also used for risk analysis to understand the risk involved with each approach. The analyst analyses the Global Tobacco Market using the Ansoff Matrix to provide the best approaches a company can take to improve its market position. Based on the SWOT analysis conducted on the industry and industry players, the analyst has devised suitable strategies for market growth. Why buy this report? The report offers a comprehensive evaluation of the Global Tobacco Market. The report includes in-depth qualitative analysis, verifiable data from authentic sources, and projections about market size. The projections are calculated using proven research methodologies. The report has been compiled through extensive primary and secondary research. The primary research is done through interviews, surveys, and observation of renowned personnel in the industry. The report includes an in-depth market analysis using Porter's 5 forces model, PESTLE Analysis, and the Ansoff Matrix. In addition, the impact of COVID-19 and the impact of economic slowdown & impending recession on the market are also featured in the report. The report also includes the regulatory scenario in the industry, which will help you make a well-informed decision. The report discusses major regulatory bodies and major rules and regulations imposed on this sector across various geographies. The report also contains a competitive analysis using Positioning Quadrants, the analyst's competitive positioning tool. Report Highlights: A complete analysis of the market, including the parent industry Important market dynamics and trends Market segmentation Historical, current, and projected size of the market based on value and volume Market shares and strategies of key players Recommendations to companies for strengthening their foothold in the market Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 193 Forecast Period 2023 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $1.08 Trillion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $1.25 Trillion Compound Annual Growth Rate 3.0% Regions Covered Global Key Topics Covered: 1 Report Description 2 Research Methodology 3 Executive Summary 4 Market Dynamics 5 Market Analysis 6 Global Tobacco Market, By Type 8 Global Tobacco Market, By Distribution Channel 9 Americas' Tobacco Market 10 Europe's Tobacco Market 11 Middle East and Africa's Tobacco Market 12 APAC's Tobacco Market 13 Competitive Landscape 14 Company Profiles 15 Appendix Companies Mentioned Altria Group, Inc. Bigarette & Co. British American Tobacco PLC China National Tobacco Corp. Eastern Company SAE Godfrey Phillips India Ltd. Hestia Tobacco LLC Hi Brasil Tobacco Imperial Brands PLC ITC Ltd. Japan Tobacco, Inc. KT&G Corp. NTC Industries Ltd. Pataka Group Philip Morris International, Inc. PT. Gudang Garam Tbk Quinnington Organic Tobacco Company Pty Reynolds American, Inc. Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Co. Seke SA Turning Point Brands, Inc. Universal Corp. US Smokeless Tobacco Co., Inc. Vape Organics VST Industries Ltd. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ix4fzg 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 Fort Polk, LA (71446) Today Cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 86F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.. Tonight Scattered thunderstorms early, then mainly cloudy after midnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%. Pune, India, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to Fortune Business Insights, the global Nurse Call Systems Market size was valued at USD 1.62 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from USD 1.86 billion in 2023 to USD 4.47 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 13.4% during the forecast period. The rising work pressure of nurses and the reduced patient-to-nurse ratio is boosting product demand from the healthcare sector. Fortune Business Insights, provide this information in its report, titled, Nurse Call Systems Market, 2023-2030. Key Industry Development November 2022- Courtney Thorne Ltd launched its CONNECT HEALTH hybrid nurse call system. It is a hybrid wired/wireless approach that is designed to meet the demands of nursing personnel in acute healthcare settings. Request a Free Sample PDF: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/sample/nurse-call-systems-market-100274 Key Takeaways Growing at a CAGR of 13.4%, the market will exhibit steady growth by 2030. The wired segment is expected to be the leading segment in this market during the forecast period. Increasing advancements in information and communication technology are a key driving factor of the market. IP-based nurse call systems and mobile-based systems would drive the adoption. North America dominated the market in 2022. Discover the Leading Players Featured in the Report: Companies leading the global Nurse Call Systems Market are JNL Technologies (U.S.), Cornell Communications (U.S.), Ascom Holding AG (Switzerland), Rauland (AMETEK, Inc.) (U.S.), Televic (Belgium), Jeron Electronic Systems, Inc. (U.S.), SCHRACK SECONET AG. (Austria), Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.), Azure Healthcare Limited (Australia), Hill Rom Services Inc. (U.S.) Report Scope & Segmentation Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 CAGR 13.4% 2030 Value Projection USD 4.47 billion Base Year 2022 Nurse Call Systems Market Size in 2023 USD 1.86 billion Historical Data for 2019 to 2021 No. of Pages 253 Browse Complete Report Details: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/nurse-call-systems-market-100274 Drivers and Restraints Advent of Advanced Technologies in Communication Systems to Boost Market Expansion Progressions in communication and information technology hold the latent to be applied to an extensive assortment of development of nurse call systems that enable improved work and patient bed sanctioning, patient observing, the protection of nurse staff, and emergency administration among others. The expansions in advanced technologies, such as internet protocol systems and wireless technologies that involve mobile device integration have considerably swayed the global nurse call systems market growth. On the other hand, the high installation and maintenance costs of nurse call systems will pose challenges for businesses operating in this domain. Segmentation By Technology Wired Wireless By Product Basic Button Based Systems Mobile Integrated System IP based Systems Others By End-User Hospitals Assisted Living & Nursing Centers Home Care Settings Others By Geography North America Europe Asia Pacific Rest of the World Quick Buy - Nurse Call Systems Market Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/100274 Report Coverage We offer reports that are triangulated with an expansive examination method that primarily focuses on delivering insightful information. Our experts have applied a data navigation method that further aids us to offer reliable predictions and examine the complete market dynamics precisely. Further, our analysts have gained admittance to several international as well as regional sponsored registers for presenting the updated information so that the shareholders and business experts invest in proficient zones only. Regional Insights North America to Lead Backed by Growing Healthcare Expenditure and Speedy Adoption of Calling System North America held the largest nurse call systems market share and generated a revenue of USD 0.61 billion in 2022. The rapid acceptance and penetration of these systems and devices by many hospitals and nursing centres are responsible for market growth in the U.S. Moreover, the high geriatric populace, falling nurse-to-patient ratio, and rise in healthcare expenditure will further propel regional market expansion. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific market is projected to grow rapidly over the study period owing to surging demand for these systems and the rising importance of accreditation from regulatory authorities. Moreover, domestic manufacturers in China and India are trying to maintain their dominance by capturing a wide domestic consumer base. Competitive Landscape Prime Players Sign Considerable Bonds to Make Noticeable Changes in Market The players functioning in the market often implement tactics that will assist the market growth and product demand. Among the abundant tactics, one such remarkable strategy to extend the business prospect is engaging in multimillion deals with government bodies and safeguarding a lucrative revenue for their own company. To Get This Report Customized, Visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/customization/nurse-call-systems-market-100274 FAQs How big is the Nurse Call Systems Market? The Nurse Call Systems Market size was USD 1.86 billion in 2023. How fast is the Nurse Call Systems Market growing? The Nurse Call Systems Market will exhibit a CAGR of 13.4% during the forecast period, 2023-2030 Related Reports: Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapeutics Market Share, Size, Trends and Forecast Next-generation Sequencing Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth | Global Forecast Report Hormonal Contraceptives Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth Medical Carts Market Trends, Growth | Global Forecast Report About Us: Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them to address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in. Contact Us: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. US: +1 424 253 0390 UK: +44 2071 939123 APAC: +91 744 740 1245 Dublin, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Military Aircraft Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) Market Report 2023-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Military Aircraft Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) Market Report 2023-2033: This report will prove invaluable to leading firms striving for new revenue pockets if they wish to better understand the industry and its underlying dynamics. It will be useful for companies that would like to expand into different industries or to expand their existing operations in a new region. Fluctuations in Military Budgets Projected to Impact Market Growth Fluctuations in military budgets across developed and emerging countries can have a significant impact on defence companies offering maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. A decrease in military spending can lead to reduced demand for MRO services, resulting in lower revenues for the market players involved in the military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) industry. On the other hand, an increase in military spending can lead to higher demand for MRO services, creating more opportunities for the market players. Additionally, changes in military budgets may affect the types of equipment and platforms that are in use, which can also impact the MRO services required. Furthermore, other factors such as geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and changing defence priorities is also anticipated to have a significant impact on the military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) industry growth over the forecast period. Adoption of Collaborative Robots (Cobots) Will Foster Industry Growth Cobots are robots designed to work alongside humans in a workspace. In the context of military maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), collaborative robots can be used to perform a variety of tasks, such as heavy lifting, precision assembly, and painting. One of the main advantages of using collaborative robots in military MRO is their ability to work safely alongside humans. Another advantage of using collaborative robots in military MRO is their ability to perform repetitive tasks with high precision and accuracy, which can help to improve the quality of repairs and maintenance. We anticipates that over the forecast period, usage of collaborative robots in military MRO can help to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of maintenance operations, while also increasing the safety and well-being of maintenance personnel. What Questions Should You Ask before Buying a Market Research Report? How is the military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) market evolving? What is driving and restraining the military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) market? How will each military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) submarket segment grow over the forecast period and how much revenue will these submarkets account for in 2033? How will the market shares for each military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) submarket develop from 2023 to 2033? What will be the main driver for the overall market from 2023 to 2033? Will leading military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) markets broadly follow the macroeconomic dynamics, or will individual national markets outperform others? How will the market shares of the national markets change by 2033 and which geographical region will lead the market in 2033? Who are the leading players and what are their prospects over the forecast period? What are the military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) projects for these leading companies? How will the industry evolve during the period between 2023 and 2033? What are the implications of military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) projects taking place now and over the next 10 years? Is there a greater need for product commercialisation to further scale the military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) market? Where is the military aircraft maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO) market heading and how can you ensure you are at the forefront of the market? What are the best investment options for new product and service lines? What are the key prospects for moving companies into a new growth path and C-suite? Segments Covered in the Report Product Heavy Engine Maintenance Components Heavy Airframe Maintenance Operational and Field Maintenance Application Narrowbody Widebody Regional Turboprop In addition to the revenue predictions for the overall world market and segments, you will also find revenue forecasts for five regional and 29 leading national markets: North America U.S. Canada Europe Germany UK France Italy Spain Russia Belgium Netherlands Rest of Europe Asia Pacific Japan China India Australia South Korea Malaysia Singapore Rest of Asia Pacific Latin America Brazil Mexico Argentina Colombia Rest of Latin America MEA Saudi Arabia UAE Iraq South Africa Rest of MEA The report also includes profiles and for some of the leading companies in the Military Aircraft Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) Market, 2023 to 2033, with a focus on this segment of these companies' operations. Leading companies and the potential for market growth AAR AFI KLM E&M Airbus AMETEK, Inc. AMMROC BAE Systems Boeing Curtiss-Wright Corporation Dassault Aviation Embraer S.A. General Dynamics Hensoldt Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Honeywell International Inc. L3Harris Technologies, Inc. Leonardo S.p.A. Lockheed Martin Corporation Lufthansa Technik MTU Aero Engines AG Pratt & Whitney (Raytheon Technologies Corporation) Rolls-Royce plc RUAG Group Safran SA ST Engineering Thales United Aircraft Corporation Key Topics Covered: 1 Report Overview 2 Executive Summary 3 Market Overview 3.1 Key Findings 3.2 Market Dynamics 3.2.1 Market Driving Factors 3.2.1.1 Usage of Collaborative Robots to Boost Industry Growth 3.2.1.2 Smart Maintenance in Military MRO Driving Industry Growth 3.2.1.3 Optimizing Supply Chain 3.2.1.4 Technological Advancements to Offer Competitive Edge 3.2.2 Market Restraining Factors 3.2.2.1 Budgetary Restraints to Pressurize MRO Providers to Develop Efficient Methods to Carry Out Routine Tasks 3.2.2.2 Evolving Forms of Performance-based MRO Contracts 3.2.2.3 Fluctuations in Military Budgets Across Different Economies to Challenged Market Growth 3.2.2.4 Fluctuations in Oil & Fuel Prices is a Major Concern Among MRO Service Providers Globally 3.2.2.5 OEMs in the Aftermarket to Challenge Market Growth to Some Extent 3.2.2.6 Labour Shortages to Challenge All Sectors of MRO Industry 3.2.3 Market Opportunities 3.2.3.1 Emerging Asia Pacific Economies 3.2.3.2 Growing Demand for MRO Services Owing to Expansion by Major Companies 4 Military Aircraft MRO Market Analysis by Product 5 Military Aircraft MRO Market Analysis by Application 6 Military Aircraft MRO Market Analysis by Region 7 North America Military Aircraft MRO Market Analysis 8 Europe Military Aircraft MRO Market Analysis 9 Asia Pacific Military Aircraft MRO Market Analysis 10 Latin America Military Aircraft MRO Market Analysis 11 Middle East and Africa Military Aircraft MRO Market Analysis 12 Company Profiles 13 Conclusion and Recommendations Companies Mentioned AAR AFI KLM E&M Airbus AMETEK, Inc. AMMROC BAE Systems Boeing Curtiss-Wright Corporation Dassault Aviation Embraer S.A. General Dynamics Hensoldt Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Honeywell International Inc. L3Harris Technologies, Inc. Leonardo S.p.A. Lockheed Martin Corporation Lufthansa Technik MTU Aero Engines AG Pratt & Whitney (Raytheon Technologies Corporation) Rolls-Royce plc RUAG Group Safran SA ST Engineering Thales United Aircraft Corporation AL TAIF Amentum Services Inc. Aviation Technical Services Collins Aerospace Erickson Incorporated FACC AG FL Technics General Electric (GE) Aviation Global Parts Group, Inc. Haite High-tech Co., Ltd. (HAITE Hi-Tech) Korea Aerospace Industries, Ltd. Kyndryl Marshall Aerospace Max AeroSpace & Aviation Pvt. Ltd. MRO Japan Co., Ltd. Tata Group Triumph Group, Inc. Vallair VSE Corporation Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) German Air Force Indian Air Force (IAF) Ministry of Defence (India) North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Royal Malaysian Air Force Royal Norwegian Air Force The Royal Air Force (RAF) U.S. Air Force (USAF) UK Air Forces United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/l53uvm 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. Dublin, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Worldwide Data Center Construction Market - Investment Prospects in 9 Regions and 51 Countries" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global data center construction market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.50% from 2022 to 2028. KEY HIGHLIGHTS In 2022, the global data center construction market witnessed investments of over USD 50 billion owing to investments from colocation operators, such as Equinix, Digital Realty, Vantage Data Centers, STACK Infrastructure, Iron Mountain, QTS Realty Trust, NTT Global Data Centers, DataBank, and ST Telemedia Global Data Centres. Hyperscalers, such as Meta (Facebook), Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Google, also aid the market with investments. These companies expand their global presence, focusing on emerging locations across Europe and APAC. Aside from AWS, Google, and Microsoft, cloud operators include Alibaba Cloud, Tencent Cloud, Oracle, IBM Cloud, and OVHcloud. They are involved in the development of several cloud regions globally, which will increase data center investments. In 2022, the data center construction market witnessed supply chain-related challenges to support infrastructure providers. This recovered to an extent in the latter half of 2022. However, prices of raw materials have since risen, leading to higher costs for data center investors. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS The adoption of advanced UPS batteries, such as lithium-ion, nickel-zinc, and Prussian blue sodium-ion batteries; software-defined data centers (SDDC); and artificial intelligence (AI) in power monitoring and microgrid adoption in data centers are some innovations. Operators assign certain liquid-cooled racks/spaces in data centers for HPC, while other spaces are cooled using traditional air-cooling methods. The liquid-cooling method enables operators to minimize their operating expenditure (OPEX) even though it may take a higher CAPEX to set up. Several countries are working toward the increased adoption of Big data and IoT. For instance, digital infrastructure and Big data are major pillars of Oman's digital future under the Oman 2040 Vision. The finance & banking, oil & gas, and transportation sectors use Big data and digitalization infrastructure to support Oman's government vision. Some recent innovations include adopting eco diesel, and natural gas generators, using hydrogen-based fuel cells, replacing diesel fuel with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), and others. SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS The report includes the investment in the following areas: Segmentation by Facility Type Hyperscale Data Centers Colocation Data Centers Enterprise Data Centers Segmentation by Infrastructure Electrical Infrastructure Mechanical Infrastructure General Construction Segmentation by Electrical Infrastructure UPS Systems Generators Transfer Switches & Switchgears PDUs Other Electrical Infrastructure Segmentation by Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems Racks Other Mechanical Infrastructure Segmentation by Cooling Systems CRAC & CRAH Units Chiller Units Cooling Towers, Condensers, & Dry Coolers Economizers & Evaporative Coolers Other Cooling Units Segmentation by Cooling Technique Air-based Cooling Liquid-based Cooling Segmentation by General Construction Core & Shell Development Installation & Commissioning Services Building & Engineering Design Fire Detection & Suppression Physical Security DCIM Segmentation by Tier Standards Tier I & Tier II Tier III Tier IV VENDOR ANALYSIS Support Infrastructure Vendors ABB Caterpillar Cummins Delta Electronics Eaton Legrand Rolls-Royce Schneider Electric STULZ Vertiv 3M Airedale Alfa Laval Asetek Assa Abloy Bloom Energy Carrier Condair Cormant Cyber Power Systems Daikin Applied Data Aire Enlogic FNT Software Generac Power Systems Green Revolution Cooling (GRC) HITEC Power Protection Honeywell Johnson Controls KOHLER KyotoCooling Mitsubishi Electric Munters Natron Energy NetZoom Nlyte Software Panduit Piller Power Systems Rittal Siemens Trane Tripp Lite Yanmar (HIMOINSA) ZincFive Data Center Contractors AECOM Arup Corgan DPR Construction Fortis Construction Holder Construction Jacobs Mercury Red Engineering Rogers-O'Brien Construction Syska Hennessy Group Turner Construction Turner & Townsend AlfaTech Atkins Aurecon Basler & Hofmann BlueScope Construction Brasfield & Gorrie CallisonRTKL Cap Ingelec Clark Construction Group Climatec Clune Construction COWI DC PRO Engineering Dornan Edarat Group EMCOR Group EYP MCF Gensler Fluor Corporation Gilbane Building Company HDR HITT Contracting Hoffman Construction ISG JE Dunn Construction Kirby Group Engineering kW Engineering kW Mission Critical Engineering Laing O'Rourke Linesight M+W Group (Exyte) McLaren Construction Group Morrison Hershfield Mortenson PM Group Quark Rosendin Royal HaskoningDHV Salute Mission Critical Sheehan Nagle Hartray Architects Skanska Southland Industries Sturgeon Electric Company Structure Tone Sweco The Mulhern Group The Walsh Group The Weitz Company TRINITY Group Construction Data Center Operators 21Vianet Group (VNET) Amazon Web Services (AWS) Apple China Telecom Colt Data Centre Services (Colt DCS) Compass Datacenters CyrusOne Digital Realty EdgeConneX (EQT Infrastructure) Equinix GDS Services Global Switch Google Iron Mountain Meta (Facebook) Microsoft NTT Global Data Centers QTS Realty Trust STACK Infrastructure ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Vantage Data Centers 3data Africa Data Centres AirTrunk Aligned American Tower AQ Compute Aruba AtlasEdge atNorth AT TOKYO BDx (Big Data Exchange) Bulk Infrastructure Bridge Data Centres CDC Data Centres Chayora China Mobile Chindata CloudHQ Cologix COPT Data Center Solutions CtrlS Datacenters Cyxtera Technologies Data4 DataBank DC BLOX Element Critical ePLDT eStruxture Data Centers fifteenfortyseven Critical Systems Realty (1547 Flexential Green Mountain H5 Data Centers HostDime KDDI (Telehouse) Keppel Data Centres LG Uplus maincubes one MainOne (Equinix) Milicom (Tigo) NEXTDC ODATA Orange Business Services Prime Data Centers Princeton Digital Group (PDG) Proximity Data Centres Raxio Group Rostelecom Data Centers Sabey Data Centers Scala Data Centers Sify Technologies Skybox Datacenters Stream Data Centers SUNeVision (iAdvantage) Switch T5 Data Centers Tenglong Holdings Group Teraco (Digital Realty) TierPoint Turkcell Urbacon Data Centre Solutions Wingu Yondr Yotta Infrastructure (Hiranandani Group) New Entrants AdaniConneX AUBix Cloudoon ClusterPower Corscale Data Centers Damac Data Centres (EDGNEX) Data Center First DHAmericas Edge Centres Evolution Data Centres Global Technical Realty Hickory iMCritical Infinity Kasi Cloud MettaDC Open Access Data Centres (OADC) PowerHouse Data Centers Pure Data Centres Group Quantum Loophole Quantum Switch Tamasuk (QST) Stratus DC Management YCO Cloud YTL Data Center ZeroPoint DC GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS Americas Region The data center construction market in the Americas is developed, with an increasing presence of local and global data center operators, especially in the US, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Colombia. In 2022, Argentina and Peru were some other emerging markets. Latin America Brazil is the leading data center industry in Latin America, with more than 45% of investments in the region due to the growth in internet penetration and adoption of cloud-based services by businesses in the country. European Region Europe's data center construction market is one of the major and has several global and local data center operators. The Global Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which came into effect in May 2018, positively impacted the data center industry in Europe, driving customers to shift data to cloud-based services for data localization. Middle East & Africa (MEA) Region The growth in internet penetration, social media usage, and smart city initiatives drive the Middle East & Africa data center market. Telecommunication providers, enterprises, governments, cloud, and colocation service providers are major investors in developing facilities. APAC Region APAC is one of the most dynamic global data center markets, with increased investments from colocation providers and hyperscale operators. The growth in the number of internet users, increased use of social media, elevated smartphone penetration, increased adoption of cloud services, and the need for enterprises to migrate from server room environments to data centers are the major drivers of the data center market APAC. Segmentation by Geography North America The U.S. Canada Latin America Brazil Mexico Chile Colombia Rest of Latin America Western Europe The U.K. Germany France Netherlands Ireland Italy Spain Switzerland Belgium Portugal Other Western European Countries Nordics Denmark Sweden Norway Finland & Iceland Central & Eastern Europe Russia Poland Austria Czech Republic Other CEE Countries Middle East UAE Saudi Arabia Israel Oman Kuwait Qatar Bahrain Jordan Other Middle East Countries Africa South Africa Kenya Nigeria Egypt Ethiopia Other African Countries APAC China Hong Kong Australia New Zealand India Japan South Korea Taiwan Rest of APAC Southeast Asia Singapore Indonesia Malaysia Thailand Philippines Vietnam Other Southeast Asia Countries KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED: How big is the data center construction market? What is the growth rate of the data center construction market? What is the estimated market size in terms of area in the global data center construction market by 2028? What are the key trends in the data center construction industry? How many MW of power capacity is expected to reach the global data center construction market by 2028? Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 304 Forecast Period 2022 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $50.34 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $73.43 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 6.4% Regions Covered Global For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/lm3e6v 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 New York, USA, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the research report published by Market Research Future (MRFR), Smart City Market Information Deployment Mode, By Application, Transport and Residential Market Forecast Till 2030, the Smart City Market could thrive at a rate of 15.5% between 2022 and 2030. The market size will be reaching around USD 1549.86 Billion by the end of the year 2030. Smart City Market Key Players Prominent industry players profiled in the global smart city market report include Honeywell Corporation (the US) Huawei Technologies Co Ltd. (China) Siemens AG (Germany) Cisco Systems Inc. (US) Schneider Electric SE (France) IBM Corporation (US) Siemens AG (Germany) AT&T Inc. (US) Ericsson (Sweden) Oracle Corporation (US) Hitachi Corporation (Japan) Microsoft Corporation (US) Get Free Sample PDF Brochure https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2624 Scope of the Report - Smart City Market: Report Metrics Details Market Size by 2030 USD 1549.86 Billion CAGR during 2022-2030 15.5% Base Year 2021 Forecast 2022-2030 Key Market Opportunities Governments are increasingly taking up and investing in the smart city mission that can also drive economic growth while enhancing the quality of life of people. Key Market Dynamics Rising demand for robust IT connectivity & digitalization, and good governance. Buy Now Premium Research Report - Get Comprehensive Market Insights. Smart City Market Drivers Increasing Investments in Smart City Designs to Boost Market Growth The increased investment in the smart city designs is one of the positive elements fueling growth in the smart cities industry. Because everything will be integrated into these smart cities and some regions would profit from the usage of smart cities for garbage collection, certain plans are setting the standard in emerging nations where governments in fact are investing billions of dollars especially in smart city technology. The cost of smart city IoT sensors is another important element fueling the expansion of the industry. As sensors will be implemented in data visualization programs & screening support, consumption administration firms are taking this very seriously as it will help with the comfortable collection of rubbish. Opportunities Trend of Disruptive Technology to offer Robust Opportunities Disruptive technology is a key element of smart cities, according to governments. As governments use these technologies to handle urban concerns such as increased electricity usage, water distribution and management, productivity, safety, environmentally friendly transportation, & crime and terrorist protection/security, it helps in the formulation of plans. Thus the trend of disruptive technology will offer robust opportunities for the market in the forecast period. Restraints and Challenges Security Concerns to act as Market Restraint The security concerns related to smart cities, high deployment cost of smart city features, and lack of adequate infrastructure & funding for a smart city model may act as market restraints over the forecast period. Smart City Market Segmentation The global smart city market is bifurcated based on application, transport, and residential. By application, the market is bifurcated into smart waste management. By transport, the market is bifurcated into smart transportation, smart ticket, and smart parking. By residential, the market is bifurcated into government, education, healthcare, and smart building. Browse In-depth Market Research Report (103 Pages, Charts, Tables, Figures) on Smart City Market https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/smart-city-market-2624 COVID-19 Analysis Several nations have put in place stringent lockdowns, closures, and movement restrictions in response to the COVID-19 epidemic to stop the virus from spreading. As a result of the pandemic's reduced staffing efforts and Silicon Valley's nearly total closure during the crisis, the government and other stakeholders are now less able to satisfy the strategic management & planning requirements of smart cities. The global healthcare & energy industries have been impacted by COVID-19. These businesses are seeking to integrate cutting-edge technology like AI and IoT, meanwhile, in order to meet the difficulties provided by the epidemic. A considerable decrease in traffic and pollution has been achieved as a result of the growing use of e-health & e-government services, along with trends like online learning and remote employment. Smart City Market Regional Analysis North America to Head Smart City Market With more than 30% of all sales in 2020, the North American region topped the worldwide Smart City Market. The expansion has been facilitated by the ongoing digital transformation in a variety of business areas, including banking, retail, and telecommunications. North America has emerged as the dominating area because of its advanced ICT infrastructure, federal & municipal governments' partnerships with ICT vendors and start-ups, and the presence of important technology suppliers. It is anticipated that these factors will encourage the development of smart technology in the area. The ongoing digital revolution in a number of sector verticals, including government, telecom, and finance, among others, may be credited with the expansion of the regional market. The area has a strong information & communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, federal and municipal governments work closely with ICT providers, and there are several well-known technology firms there. Parts of the municipal connection infrastructure have been widely implemented by these service providers & other local authorities, which will facilitate the planning of the development of smart cities in the area. Throughout the projection period, these elements will support the expansion of the local market. Ask for Customization - Get a customized version of the report by submitting a customization APAC to Have Admirable Growth in Smart City Market Asia Pacific is predicted to grow at the quickest rate throughout the projection period. This growth may be related to the region's increased focus on developing its digital infrastructure. Additionally, it is anticipated that throughout the course of the projected period, increased urbanization and disposable income would support regional market development. Governments in the region are projected to focus more on better parking management, lessening traffic jams and air pollution throughout the course of the projection period, which will raise need for smart parking systems. The rise in disposable income, the emergence of digital infrastructure, globalization, and economic advancements are all factors that have contributed to the region's success. Asia Pacific businesses are eager to take advantage of the cost-effectiveness and other advantages of cloud-based solutions, which are encouraging for the development of smart city concept such as applications for smart buildings, smart utilities, smart transportation, and smart governance. Due to several government efforts and regional digital transformation trends, which are anticipated to fuel this region's market expansion, Asia-Pacific is anticipated to have considerable growth during the projected period. Industry Updates May 2023- Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir is prepared to become the "Smart City" of the Valley thanks to the addition of the Polo View Market & High Street. The project's goal is to create a modern market that would also help Srinagar's economy grow. The project has been carried out under the Central Government's banner. Related Reports: Sensor Market - The sensor industry is projected to grow from USD 224.61 Billion in 2022 to USD 344.48 billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.30% during the forecast period (2022 - 2030). - The sensor industry is projected to grow from USD 224.61 Billion in 2022 to USD 344.48 billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.30% during the forecast period (2022 - 2030). Embedded Technology Market - The Embedded Technology market industry is projected to grow from USD 87 Billion in 2023 to USD 116 Billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.00% during the forecast period (2023 - 2030). - The Embedded Technology market industry is projected to grow from USD 87 Billion in 2023 to USD 116 Billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.00% during the forecast period (2023 - 2030). Photovoltaic (PV) Market - The Photovoltaic (PV) market industry is projected to grow from USD 95 Billion in 2023 to USD 126 Billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.00% during the forecast period (2023 - 2030). Browse through more Semiconductor and Electronics Research Reports. 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. Contact Us: Dublin, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Sexual Lubricant Market - Global Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global sexual lubricant market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.74% from 2022-2028. BRANDING STRATEGIES Taking into consideration that sexual lubricant products are often treated as products to be sold under secrecy or products associated with cultural shame or taboo across societies, vendors need to remain cautious in the way they project their brand in public. Branding is eventually one of the key strategies to create a positive impression in the mass media and leverage the brand equity generated for vendors in the sexual lubricant market. Vendors are differentiating themselves by positioning their brands in a unique way that resonates with the target market. For example, Reckitt Benckiser's Durex brand is fun and adventurous with the tagline "Play Longer." In contrast, Karex Berhad's ONE brand promotes sexual health and wellness with the tagline "Better sex. Better world." MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Increasing Influence of the Internet In Driving Purchases The increasing penetration of internet services, improved economy, and upgrading of purchase and delivery options with the emergence of m-commerce have paved the way for online shopping through smart and connected devices such as smartphones and tablets. The m-commerce sector is expected to account for nearly half of the global e-commerce market during the forecast period. Online websites also provide detailed product information, including quality, safety measures, and user guidance, which have increased customer demand for e-retailing. Consumers feel more comfortable purchasing sexual wellness products from e-commerce websites, further contributing to the growth of the sexual lubricant market. For instance, the large and tangible interfaces of tablets as well as access to high-speed Wi-Fi connections, are suitable for purchasing sexual wellness products such as sexual lubricants online as they considerably ease the decision-making process of users. Increasing Use Of Dating Apps In APAC The penetration of dating apps has been rising rapidly in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region in recent years and has likely contributed to the growth of the sexual lubricant market in several ways. This trend can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing popularity of smartphones and the internet and changing social attitudes towards online dating. Further, in countries such as India and China, the number of users of dating apps has increased significantly in recent years. This can be attributed to a growing middle class, a youthful population, and a rising level of education, as well as greater awareness of online dating and the increasing availability of dating apps. INDUSTRY RESTRAINTS Increasing Concerns Over Side Effects Sexual lubricants are applied to the most sensitive parts of the body and are thus subjected to various studies of their effects on end-users. The use of sexual lubricants may cause severe irritation, burning, and itching, along with other health complications among end-users. This could increase the chances of HIV and other STIs. People are concerned about these lubricants as most accessible commercial products are created for vaginal intercourse, giving rise to the risk of damage to the rectal epithelium, which is more sophisticated and doesn't secrete lubricating fluids during intercourse. Such factors can hamper the sexual lubricant market growth during the forecast period. SEGMENTATION INSIGHTS INSIGHTS BY PRODUCT The global sexual lubricant market by product is segmented into water-based, silicone-based, oil-based, and hybrid. The water-based sexual lubricant segment held the leading position in 2022. Water-based sexual lubricants are highly popular among end-users and have a wide customer base. Water-based sexual lubricants are a type of lubricant formulated with water as their main ingredient. They are widely used because they are safe with latex condoms and other sex toys, and they do not stain clothing or bedding. Additionally, they are easy to clean up and do not leave a greasy or oily residue. Water-based sexual lubricants have a long legacy in the market, and they are the most commonly used sexual lubricants with a wide base of consumers worldwide. One of the major factors driving the demand for water-based sexual lubricants is their compatibility with condoms, which has contributed to their acceptance among users across the globe. Segmentation by Product Water-Based Silicone-Based Oil-Based Hybrid INSIGHTS BY GENDER The global sexual lubricant market is mostly male-centric; products catering to males held more than 80% of the global market in revenue in 2022. However, over the past few years, the industry has witnessed a rise in demand for female-centric products. Developed markets such as Europe and North America have seen a noticeable demand growth for female-centric products. It is an accepted fact that both men and women have their individual specific needs & desires. Thus the need for appropriate marketing for a range of sexual lubricants catering to such gender requirements is of high priority in the sexual wellness industry. Segmentation by Gender Male Female INSIGHTS BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL The offline distribution segment accounted for the highest revenue in the global sexual lubricant market in 2022. The entry of condom manufacturers such as Reckitt Benckiser, Karex, and Church & Dwight into the market has increased the sale of sexual lubricants through retail stores such as sex specialty stores and supermarkets worldwide. However, the offline segment will face strong competition from the online segment in the future due to rising internet penetration worldwide. Sexual lubricants are available to end-users through online OEMs' e-commerce portals and direct-to-consumer stores such as Amazon, eBay, Best Buy, Alibaba, and JD. Instant price comparison and a wide range of varieties are the major reasons behind the spurt in online sales. Segmentation by Distribution Channel Offline Online GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS North America holds the largest global sexual lubricant market, accounting for over 37% in 2022. The region represents some of the most advanced economies in the world. It is a major market for contraceptives and sexual wellness products because of a well-formulated sex education program and an efficient distribution network. Moreover, the region represents one of the most sexually active populations in terms of using condoms and sexual lubricants. Furthermore, the growing popularity of adult stores and a relaxed attitude towards sexuality among U.S. nationals have fueled the market growth in the region. Segmentation by Geography North America US Canada APAC China Japan India South Korea Australia Singapore New Zealand Indonesia Malaysia Thailand Europe Germany UK France Italy Russia Spain Poland Sweden Denmark Norway Latin America Mexico Brazil Argentina Peru Chile Middle East and Africa Saudi Arabia UAE South Africa COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE The global sexual lubricant market's competitive scenario has intensified over the past few years. The rapidly changing technological environment could adversely affect vendors as customers expect continual innovations and upgrades. The present scenario forces vendors to refine their unique value proposition to achieve a strong market presence. As a result, vendors have to reduce the prices for their products to remain in the competitive environment and gain market share. Key Company Profiles LifeStyles Church & Dwight Karex Berhad Reckitt Benckiser Group BioFilm Other Prominent Vendors Aytu BioPharma BILLY BOY (MAPA) Bodywise CalExotics CC Wellness Cupid Limited Elbow Grease Empowered Products Good Clean Love Guy & O'Neill Hathor Professional Skincare HLL Lifecare Ltd ID Lubricants Japan Long-Tie (China) Kaamastra Live Well Brands Lovehoney Group M.D. Science Lab Mayor Laboratories Nulatex PHE PJUR Group Ritex SASMAR PHARMACEUTICALS Sensuous Beauty SHUNGA Sliquid The Yes Yes Company Tenga Trigg Laboratories Thai Nippon Rubber Industry (TNR) Topco Sales Taiwan Fuji Latex XR Brands KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED How big is the sexual lubricant market? What is the growth rate of the global sexual lubricant market? Which region dominates the global sexual lubricant market share? What are the significant trends in the sexual lubricant market? Who are the key players in the global sexual lubricant market? Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 316 Forecast Period 2022 - 2028 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $1347.12 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2028 $2227.68 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.7% Regions Covered Global Key Topics Covered: 1 Research Methodology 2 Research Objectives 3 Research Process 4 Scope & Coverage 5 Report Assumptions & Caveats 6 Premium Insights 7 Market at a Glance 8 Introduction 9 Market Opportunities & Trends 9.1 Increasing Influence of Internet in Driving Purchases 9.2 Growing Popularity of Private-Label Brands 9.3 Rising Focus on Promotional & Marketing Activities 9.4 Increasing Use of Dating Apps in Apac 9.5 Increase in Festivals, Expos, and Tradeshows 9.6 Shift Toward Female-Centric Sexual Wellness Products 10 Market Growth Enablers 10.1 Increasing Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction 10.2 Surge in Demand from Baby Boomers 10.3 Easier Accessibility to Sexual Lubricants 10.4 Evolving Gender-Neutral Tone 11 Market Restraints 11.1 Stringent Regulatory Environment 11.2 Increasing Concerns Over Side-Effects 11.3 Lack of Awareness Among Consumers in Developing Regions 11.4 Low Confidence of Investors in Potential Startups 12 Market Landscape 13 Product 14 Gender 15 Distribution Channel 16 Geography 17 North America 18 Apac 19 Europe 20 Latin America 21 Middle East & Africa 22 Competitive Landscape 23 Key Company Profiles 24 Other Prominent Vendors 25 Report Summary 26 Quantitative Summary 27 Appendix For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ifemeh 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 TORONTO, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Ontario Network of Injured Workers Groups (ONIWG) and its allies are calling on the provincial government to stop the recommendations from the Value for Money Audit Report by KPMG management consultants on the WSIB compensation system. The recommendations from the report, if legislated by the Ford government, would change the WSIBs dispute resolution and appeals process. One of the recommendations would reduce the time limit for injured and ill workers and their representatives to object to a WSIB decision from six months to one month. Another recommendation would reduce the amount of time for injured and ill workers to secure legal representation. As an injured worker, its really tough to navigate the WSIB because of all the complicated timelines and policies that exist. These damaging recommendations from KPMG, which were accepted by the WSIB, would make it more difficult for injured workers to get benefits, said Wayne Harris, ONIWG Vice president. WSIB is proposing to restrict workers rights (workers with a disability) to filing an appeal to 30 days; and, this is happening at a time when the WSIB has a surplus of over $7 billion. In response to the report, ONIWG and community members held a media conference today at Queens Park, Toronto, to call on the Ford government to reject the recommendations, and to consult injured and ill workers on ways to improve the compensation system. It can take several months to a year just to get medical reports or assessments for injured and ill workers, and if these recommendations get implemented, then representatives will become time limit machines, says Maryth Yachnin, Staff Lawyer at the Industrial Accident Victims Group of Ontario (IAVGO). Its shameful the WSIB is even considering these suggestions from KPMG. Many of the workers we help will be forced into poverty because they cant appeal unfair decisions in time. It is not unsimilar to when the WSIB manufactured an unfunded liability crisis to the tune of 11.5 billion in 2008. And guess what happened just last year? The WSIB announced they had a healthy surplus, and the Ford government happily and swiftly gave those billions of dollars back to employers not injured and ill workers, whose benefits had been cut throughout the years, said Janice Folk, Executive Vice-President, Ontario Federation of Labour. For more information: Francis Pineda, Injured Workers Community Legal Clinic 647-891-2083 (cell) francis.pineda@iwc.clcj.ca NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A groundbreaking cryptocurrency project, NYAN Meme Coin (CRYPTO: NYAN) ($NYAN), is taking a stand against animal cruelty and helping animals in need donating to animal shelters worldwide, starting off with Vietnam. Unbelievably, cats and dogs, which we usually associate with warmth and companionship, are commonly used as food in these regions. Moreover, the Yulin Festival, an annual event in Guangxi, China, which perpetuates the mistreatment of animals, is a stark reality check for our furry companions. Amid these harsh circumstances, a Vietnamese woman named Quyen is making a difference. Previously featured by the media for her tireless efforts, Quyen operates a self-funded animal shelter, aiming to rescue animals from slaughterhouses, provide medical treatment, nourishment, and safe space. Despite her unwavering commitment, limited funds and awareness of her cause make it a daunting task. Fortuitously, the NYAN Meme Coin team crossed paths with Quyen due to an unexpected interaction in a Ho Chi Minh hotel lobby. The team had launched the NYAN project, named after the Japanese word for "meow," with a primary objective to support animal welfare, specifically cats. After learning about Quyen's laudable initiative, they were inspired to contribute to her operation. You can learn more and support Quyen's mission directly from her Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/nhuquyen.huynhthi.10?mibextid=LQQJ4d . The NYAN Meme Coin project is unique, leveraging the financial potential of meme coins to fund animal shelters worldwide. Emphasizing support for disadvantaged countries, where even a small amount of money can make a significant impact, NYAN aspires to construct more animal shelters in the future. NYAN's inspiration originates from a 2011 YouTube phenomenon. A Poptart Cat animated gif by Chris Torres that Sarah June (aka "saraj00n") combined with the voice of Momone Momo saying "Nyanyanyanyanyanyanya!" which became a viral sensation. NYAN Meme Coin strives to replicate this internet success of NYAN cat, but with real-world contributions to animal shelters. In the emotionally charged video below NYAN sponsored an influencer to meet Quyen and donate $1000 in Vietnamese Dong to Quyens animal rescue operation: https://twitter.com/Nyanmemecoin/status/1661011804200501248 NYAN Meme Coin, a project backed by various crypto veterans and whales, operates on a renounced contract with its initial liquidity burned, ensuring its trustworthiness by eliminating the possibility of a rug pull. To maintain decentralization, emphasize community and to keep the focus on donating to animal shelters without involving politics, the project team remains anonymous. Joining the NYAN community gives you an opportunity to make a positive impact on our furry friends' lives. Through collective effort, we can change lives. Remember, memes are fun, but NYAN is much more than an ordinary meme it's a movement with a purpose! For more information, follow $NYAN on https://www.nyanmemecoin.com/ and https://twitter.com/Nyanmemecoin . Contract address: 0x0ebe30595a44e5288c24161ddfc1e9fa08e33a0c Email: Hello@nyanmemecoin.com DEXTools: https://www.dextools.io/app/en/ether/pair-explorer/0x7c2543938a27554f82be178a2ac02a72c8ad1925 Telegram: https://t.me/nyanmemecoinchat Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nyanmemecoin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092497066487&mibextid=LQQJ4d Quyen: https://www.facebook.com/nhuquyen.huynhthi.10?mibextid=LQQJ4d A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/269f5834-9e66-4566-950a-7cb58e21cace SALISBURY, N.C., May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Food Lion Feeds fourth annual Summers Without Hunger campaign aims to address food insecurity by helping to provide 16 million meals* this summer. Through the campaign, which runs May 31 June 27, Food Lion customers have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and families in their local community by making a $5 cash donation at checkout in-store or online through Food Lion To Go. All customer donations will be generously matched by 10 Food Lion suppliers: Campbells, Coca-Cola, Frito Lay, Gatorade, General Mills, Kelloggs, Kraft Heinz, Mondelez, Pepsi Beverages and Unilever, doubling the impact, up to $1 million. Food Lion Feeds was founded in 2014 by Food Lion to address food insecurity in the towns and cities it serves. According to Feeding America, the nations largest domestic hunger-relief organization, an estimated 32 million meals are needed to help children and families during the summer months. The Summers Without Hunger campaign helps provide access to meals to neighbors facing hunger in partnership with Feeding America and the 33 local partner food banks throughout Food Lions 10-state operating area. Children and their families often experience hunger during the summer when schools are closed and meals are not provided, said Kevin Durkee, Manager, Food Lion Feeds, Food Lion. At Food Lion, nourishing our neighbors and addressing food insecurity is at the core of everything we do in the towns and cities we serve. We sincerely appreciate our vendors and customers for partnering with us to ensure we provide nourishment and make a difference in the lives of young children. Since the Food Lion Feeds Summers Without Hunger campaign began in 2020, customers have helped to provide nearly 40 million meals to neighbors facing hunger. In addition to customers, suppliers and Food Lions donations, Food Lion associates will also volunteer throughout the month at several local Feeding America partner food banks to help distribute food to neighbors facing hunger. 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 donating 1.5 billion meals** by 2025. For more information on Food Lion Feeds commitment to fight hunger, visit www.foodlion.com/feeds. *$1 helps provide at least 10 meals secured by Feeding America on behalf of local partner food banks. Through the Summers Without Hunger campaign, Food Lion guarantees a minimum donation of $100,000 (monetary equivalent of 1 million meals) from May 31 June 27, 2023. **Food Lion Feeds helps provide meals through a combination of product, financial and equipment donations; disaster relief and recovery efforts; capital campaign support for feeding agencies; and volunteer hours by associates, based on various meal equivalent formulas. 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. About Feeding America Feeding America is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States. Through a network of more than 200 food banks, 21 statewide food bank associations, and over 60,000 partner agencies, food pantries and meal programs, we helped provide 5.2 billion meals to tens of millions of people in need last year. Feeding America also supports programs that prevent food waste and improve food security among the people we serve; brings attention to the social and systemic barriers that contribute to food insecurity in our nation; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Visit feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. 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/bd46f5e6-2367-401c-aa7f-cf932fc42e47 Minneapolis, MN, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- For young adults heading to college, the life lessons can start before classes do. Like learning to deal with rent, groceries or car payments. For many, the learning curve also includes finding affordable health insurance for students. It can be new and intimidating territory, which is why healthinsurance.org is providing tips to help students shop for coverage. Even if a family already has a health insurance plan, that doesnt necessarily mean the plan will provide all the coverage the student needs while theyre at college said Louise Norris, health policy analyst for healthinsurance.org. You cant just buy health insurance at any time, or use it anywhere. Thats why its important to understand how health insurance works as you prepare for college. Location affects coverage Many health plans provide coverage of non-emergency care only in a specific geographic area. Thats important if college students move far from home, to a place where their doctors may be outside of their existing plans provider network. If thats the case, students may find coverage is limited, and costs for care and medicine are much higher. If youre currently covered by a plan, like your parents insurance, start by examining that plans limitations, said Norris. Timing is critical If your existing plan wont work for you in your new home-away-from-home, start shopping for new coverage as soon as possible, Norris said. Understand there are limited times each year when insurers offer open enrollment. You dont want to miss out and end up uninsured. Normally, you can only sign up for Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage during the annual open enrollment period each fall. Fortunately, students heading to college qualify for a special enrollment period if they move. But that enrollment opportunity only lasts for 60 days beginning on the date of the move. Timing is one of the most important considerations for purchasing health insurance, Norris said. Plan ahead so you dont miss your window of opportunity. Its possible to find some plans offering year-round open enrollment, but they might not include certain benefits or be available to people with existing health conditions, Norris added. Explore your options: Several choices of health insurance for students Young adults may have several coverage options, depending on their circumstances. Young adults are allowed to stay on a parents health insurance plan until the age of 26. This is the most common coverage option for students. It is a particularly good option if the students school is close to home, or if the plan would provide adequate coverage for the young adult at their new location. Other options include: Marketplace coverage. These are ACA-compliant plans required to cover essential benefits with no annual or lifetime benefit maximums. Students may qualify for income-based subsidies that lower the cost of this coverage, but keep in mind that parents income will be counted if the student is still listed as a tax dependent. Marketplace plans can only be purchased during the annual open enrollment period or if the applicant is eligible for a special enrollment period. These are ACA-compliant plans required to cover essential benefits with no annual or lifetime benefit maximums. Students may qualify for income-based subsidies that lower the cost of this coverage, but keep in mind that parents income will be counted if the student is still listed as a tax dependent. Marketplace plans can only be purchased during the annual open enrollment period or if the applicant is eligible for a special enrollment period. College plans. Colleges and universities may offer a student health insurance plan. In many cases, these plans are regulated by the ACA so they provide coverage comparable to a Marketplace plan. Keep in mind that not all plans marketed to students by colleges and universities, or by outside entities, are ACA-compliant. Colleges and universities may offer a student health insurance plan. In many cases, these plans are regulated by the ACA so they provide coverage comparable to a Marketplace plan. Keep in mind that not all plans marketed to students by colleges and universities, or by outside entities, are ACA-compliant. Employer coverage. Students who work while they are in college may be offered employer-sponsored health care coverage. Even if someone has an offer for employer coverage, they can still stay on a parents plan until the age of 26. They also still have the option of purchasing a Marketplace plan, and may still qualify for Marketplace subsidies if the employer plan is considered unaffordable. These options can afford students and young adults more privacy than remaining on a parents plan. For students concerned about the cost of coverage without the assistance of a parent, Medicaid may be an option. Thirty-eight states have expanded Medicaid eligibility to cover adults with incomes of up to 138% of the federal poverty level. (Two additional states, South Dakota and North Carolina, plan to expand Medicaid in the coming months, and the Medicaid expansion income limit extends to 215% of the poverty level in the District of Columbia.) Consider your individual needs In addition to location, cost and coverage, individual needs also can influence the choice of health plan. Some things to consider: Prescription medications. Coverage of prescription medications varies from plan to plan, based on the drugs in a plans formulary. Some plans may cover a brand-name medication, while others may cover only the generic version of that drug, or may not cover the drug at all. Particularly for young adults with prescriptions for maintenance drugs, this could be an important consideration when choosing health insurance for students. Coverage of prescription medications varies from plan to plan, based on the drugs in a plans formulary. Some plans may cover a brand-name medication, while others may cover only the generic version of that drug, or may not cover the drug at all. Particularly for young adults with prescriptions for maintenance drugs, this could be an important consideration when choosing health insurance for students. Doctors and specialists. Plans also differ in how they allow access to doctors and specialists. Plans categorized as HMO, PPO, EPO and POS have networks of medical providers. People who see providers outside of a plans provider network may find they have limited coverage for services and will almost certainly face higher costs. Plans also differ in how they allow access to doctors and specialists. Plans categorized as HMO, PPO, EPO and POS have networks of medical providers. People who see providers outside of a plans provider network may find they have limited coverage for services and will almost certainly face higher costs. Birth control and maternity care . Coverage will vary by plan. For example, young adults on a parents plan may not have full maternity coverage. And student plans offered by religious schools may limit contraceptive coverage. Coverage will vary by plan. For example, young adults on a parents plan may not have full maternity coverage. And student plans offered by religious schools may limit contraceptive coverage. Travel. Most health insurance plans dont cover medical expenses during foreign travel. Students who are planning to travel or study abroad may want to look at additional t ravel health insurance coverage options. When it comes to health insurance for students and young adults, there are a wealth of choices, Norris said. Just remember: Dont assume youre covered wherever youre headed, and dont delay exploring your options. That way, you can make a solid financial decision for your future. Healthinsurance.org is a free online source of consumer health resources, including information about individual health insurance, major medical insurance and affordable medical insurance. NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Naturally New Yorks A Fancy New York Pitch Slam will return to the biggest specialty food industry event in North America, Summer Fancy Food Show , from 4-5:30 p.m. on June 26 at the Javits Center (429 11th Ave.; main stage; level one; hall E) in partnership with the Specialty Food Association (SFA). Naturally New Yorks Pitch Slam gives natural and specialty products entrepreneurs the center stage to pitch their consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands to a panel of expert judges and Fancy Food Show attendees. Five finalists will compete for a chance to win a $150,000+ prize package including cash, services and a free booth at the 2024 Winter Fancy Food Show, to help propel their companys growth. The first Fancy New York Pitch Slam collaboration was a highlight of the Summer Fancy Food Show last year, said Denise Purcell, vice president, resource development for the Specialty Food Association. There is a lot of positive momentum going into this second Pitch Slam event. We are looking forward to an exciting competition and opportunity to collaborate with Naturally New York. To qualify for the competition, companies must have been in the market for at least one year (before the date of entry into the contest) with a CPG natural or specialty product or service; have generated $100,000 - $2,000,000 in gross revenues during 2022 (across all sales channels); and be a member of Naturally New York (NNY) or SFA. Applications were received from around the country, and narrowed down to five finalists who will advance to the live event to present their pitch: Heather K. Terry , founder and CEO of GoodSAM Foods, will host the event. She will be joined by a panel of all-star industry judges: Christina Briscoe , food and beverage category manager, SoHo House & Co., North America; Melissa Dolan , director, Emil Capital Partners; John Lawson , senior local forager, Northeast Region, Whole Foods Market; and Tapan Shah , head of venture capital, Snack Futures, Mondelez International. Pitch Slam finalists will each have 3 minutes to present their pitch and will be judged on presentation, storytelling abilities, innovation, social impact, branding, packaging, and market viability. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for the Peoples Choice winner, who will also receive a valuable prize package. All finalists, whether they win or lose, benefit from our Pitch Slam event, said Terry, who is also an executive board member and founding partner of NNY. The visibility alone is worth the opportunity. Last year, we had 625 professionals in attendance. Its a huge boost to any brand. A Fancy New York Pitch Slam is open to Summer Fancy Food Show attendees and Naturally New York members and guests. The event is included as part of the Summer Fancy Food Show registration or individual event tickets can be purchased for $35 or $25 for NNY members . The winners will receive prize packages from: S pecialty Food Association , NIQ , FounderMade , SPINS , Kerry , JPG Resources , Pitch Publicity , New Hope Network , Havens Kitchen , Ampla , SG , BeyondBrands , Foa & Son , S IX 60 Partners and BeyondSKU . Register at: https://www.naturallynewyork.org/2023pitchslam . About Naturally New York: Naturally New York (NNY) is a distinguished 501(c)(6) trade association that was established in 2021 with a singular objective: to foster connections among New York area entrepreneurs, leaders, investors, and service providers within the thriving natural products community. NNYs mission is to harness, accelerate, and elevate the power and impact of conscious business practices in the natural, organic, and sustainable products ecosystem. Through community-based programming, networking opportunities, influential advocacy, and collaborative endeavors, NNY unites and engages a diverse range of brands, investors, and service providers, from promising start-ups to established Fortune 500 companies. Together, NNY shapes a more equitable, prosperous, and healthier world. Join NNY to forge a transformative path towards a future where purpose-driven businesses thrive at: https://www.naturallynewyork.org . Stay connected with NNY on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , TikTok and Twitter . About Specialty Food Association: The not-for-profit Specialty Food Association (SFA) is the leading membership trade association and source of information about the $175 billion specialty food industry. Founded in 1952 in New York City, the SFA prides itself on being an organization by the members and for the members, representing thousands of specialty food makers and manufacturers, importers, retailers, buyers, distributors, brokers, and others in the trade. The SFA owns and operates the Fancy Food Shows which are the largest specialty food industry events in North Americaas well as the sofi Awards which have honored excellence in specialty food and beverage annually since 1972. The SFA produces the Trendspotter Panel annual predictions, the State of the Specialty Food Industry Report, Today's Specialty Food Consumer research, the Spill & Dish podcast, year-round educational programming for professionals at every stage in their business journey, and SFA Feed , the industry's go-to daily source for news, trends and new product information. Find out more online and connect with SFA on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , LinkedIn , and TikTok . Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/43a8d914-23e4-4cef-a393-097d0e3989d9 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c5947d64-bc09-4fbc-ba0c-874ad25ee06d https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/05a3747f-3c04-4c34-81e7-ca180155039d https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/840df9cd-5ec5-4ab7-a9df-97e4726504e5 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b5cd69f1-03ea-43b8-97c8-5512eeb9a799 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d78ddbfb-5731-4cb4-86c0-37b868e82244 If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit Toronto, Ontario, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On June 9, OCAD University will award honorary doctorates to five remarkable individuals who have been leaders of change, having made a direct impact on arts and culture in Canada and worldwide. We are excited to honour these inspiring individuals who have left indelible marks in their respective fields, making positive change possible, says OCAD Us President and Vice-Chancellor Ana Serrano. These honorands all share the same exceptional passion and commitment to driving meaningful, long-lasting impact that we encourage at OCAD U. The honorands will join more than 700 students from OCAD Us three faculties and Graduate Studies who will be receiving their diplomas at Roy Thomson Hall. Meet the 2023 honorary doctorate recipients: Kat Holmes has influenced some of the biggest names in tech, including Microsoft, Google and Salesforce, where she is currently Executive Vice-President and Chief Design Officer. Holmes has been recognized internationally as a leader of inclusive design. Her award-winning Inclusive Toolkit was inducted into the Smithsonian Institution's Cooper Hewitt Design Museum and her global best-selling book, Mismatch: How Inclusion Shapes Design , explores why designing with excluded communities drives better solutions for everyone. has influenced some of the biggest names in tech, including Microsoft, Google and Salesforce, where she is currently Executive Vice-President and Chief Design Officer. Holmes has been recognized internationally as a leader of inclusive design. Her award-winning Inclusive Toolkit was inducted into the Smithsonian Institution's Cooper Hewitt Design Museum and her global best-selling book, , explores why designing with excluded communities drives better solutions for everyone. Robert Houle is regarded as one of the most influential First Nations artists in the contemporary art world. During his 50-year career, Houle, an Anishinaabe Saulteaux contemporary artist, curator, educator, writer, and critic, has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between contemporary Indigenous art and the Canadian art scene. His work led to a major shift in public art galleries and museums, shedding light on significant issues affecting Indigenous peoples and decolonizing major public arts institutions. He served as the first Indigenous Curator at the Canadian Museum of Civilization and was the first professor of Indigenous Studies at OCAD University, where he taught for close to 20 years. is regarded as one of the most influential First Nations artists in the contemporary art world. During his 50-year career, Houle, an Anishinaabe Saulteaux contemporary artist, curator, educator, writer, and critic, has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between contemporary Indigenous art and the Canadian art scene. His work led to a major shift in public art galleries and museums, shedding light on significant issues affecting Indigenous peoples and decolonizing major public arts institutions. He served as the first Indigenous Curator at the Canadian Museum of Civilization and was the first professor of Indigenous Studies at OCAD University, where he taught for close to 20 years. Philip B. Lind is known as the Right Hand Man who guided the success of Ted Rogers, hence, the title of his memoir, co-written with Robert Brehl. As one of the founders of Rogers Communications, Lind was instrumental in helping build Rogers into a multi-billion-dollar empire in less than four decades. Lind championed the development of multilingual, multicultural and specialty programming and service concepts, such as community channels and CPAC. A philanthropist and ardent supporter of the arts and the environment, Lind has provided his generous support to many institutions across Canada, among them, The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, where he served as Chair, Art Gallery of Ontario, Vancouver Art Gallery and the Sierra Club of Ontario, which he founded. is known as the Right Hand Man who guided the success of Ted Rogers, hence, the title of his memoir, co-written with Robert Brehl. As one of the founders of Rogers Communications, Lind was instrumental in helping build Rogers into a multi-billion-dollar empire in less than four decades. Lind championed the development of multilingual, multicultural and specialty programming and service concepts, such as community channels and CPAC. A philanthropist and ardent supporter of the arts and the environment, Lind has provided his generous support to many institutions across Canada, among them, The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, where he served as Chair, Art Gallery of Ontario, Vancouver Art Gallery and the Sierra Club of Ontario, which he founded. Nancy McCain has played a transformative role in supporting Canadian arts and culture. A passionate community builder, McCains philanthropy and professional guidance centers largely around shifting power and supporting those most in need. As Chair of the Toronto Foundation, she helps steward funding to some of Torontos most challenged citizens. As former Chair of the Arts Access Fund, she has contributed to providing arts scholarships for youth in need, and as President of the Morneau-McCain Foundation, she is leading an initiative with the University of Toronto to provide scholarships and permanent residency to refugee girls from Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya. McCain has played a significant leadership role in many of Canadas arts and culture institutions, including the National Gallery of Canada Foundation, the National Arts Centre, the Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, Soulpepper Theatre Company and the Sobey Art Foundation. has played a transformative role in supporting Canadian arts and culture. A passionate community builder, McCains philanthropy and professional guidance centers largely around shifting power and supporting those most in need. As Chair of the Toronto Foundation, she helps steward funding to some of Torontos most challenged citizens. As former Chair of the Arts Access Fund, she has contributed to providing arts scholarships for youth in need, and as President of the Morneau-McCain Foundation, she is leading an initiative with the University of Toronto to provide scholarships and permanent residency to refugee girls from Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya. McCain has played a significant leadership role in many of Canadas arts and culture institutions, including the National Gallery of Canada Foundation, the National Arts Centre, the Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, Soulpepper Theatre Company and the Sobey Art Foundation. Rosemary Sadlier has been at the forefront of countless initiatives aimed at educating the public on Black Canadian history. She is one of the original driving forces in securing the commemoration of February as Black History Month, as well as Emancipation Day, at all levels of government in Canada. As a social justice advocate, researcher, writer, consultant and international speaker on Black history, anti-racism and womens issues, Sadlier served as the unpaid leader of the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) for 22 years. She led the OBHS in the development of a wide variety of educational projects and presentations. An accomplished author, Sadlier has written seven books on significant events and contributions made by Blacks in Canada. About OCAD University: OCAD University is a world-famous hub for art, design and digital media education, research, innovation and creativity. We embrace collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches to change-making through art, design-thinking curriculum and research making OCAD U a local, regional, national and global leader in art and design. Our students benefit from hands-on studio learning and gain employable skills. Attachment SAN FRANCISCO, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hagens Berman urges NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now. Class Period: Dec. 2, 2021 Feb. 1, 2023 Lead Plaintiff Deadline: July 25, 2023 Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/NEE Contact An Attorney Now: NEE@hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895 NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE) Securities Fraud Class Action: The complaint alleges that Defendants mispresented and concealed that NextEras primary subsidiary (Florida Power & Light Company, or FPL) flouted federal and state campaign laws thereby exposing NextEra to substantial legal and reputational risk. In Dec. 2021, media outlets began reporting that FPL and its political consulting firm Matrix steered political funding to spoiler ghost candidates to derail reelection efforts by unfriendly Florida state legislators during the 2020 election cycle, spied on journalists who published unsupportive reporting, and improperly courted public officials with job offers while bidding to privatize certain public utilities, all with FPL executives approval. NextEra responded to this reporting with: (1) blanket denials; (2) declaring that we conducted a very extensive and thorough investigation[] and the bottom line is we found no evidence of any issues at all, any illegality or any wrongdoing on the part of FPL or any of its employees; and (3) assurances that the allegations did not expose the company to meaningful legal or reputational risk. But in Nov. 2022, NextEra revealed that a complaint was filed with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) alleging violations of the Federal Election Campaign Act and identifying FPL as a source of funds to certain Super Pacs identified in the complaint. Then, on Jan. 25, 2023, NextEra announced that FPLs CEO (Eric Silagy) would cease to serve in that role. The company also acknowledged the serious business and reputational risks posed by the FECs complaint. These events caused the price of NextEra shares to sharply decline. Were focused on investors losses and proving NextEra lied to investors about its political misconduct, said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation. If you invested in NextEra and have significant losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firms investigation, click here to discuss your legal rights with Hagens Berman. Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding NextEra 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 NEE@hbsslaw.com. About Hagens Berman Hagens 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, 844-916-0895 English Lithuanian UAB Atsinaujinancios energetikos investicijos (the Company) publishes its unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the 3-month period of 2023. Financial results The Companys objective is to earn a return for the Companys investors from investments in facilities of the renewable energy infrastructure and related assets. The main financial indicators for the period were: As at 31 March 2023, the Companys total assets were EUR 160 466 thousand, total equity was EUR 107 262 thousand, and total liabilities were EUR 53 204 thousand. As at 31 March 2023, the Companys investment assets at fair value through profit or loss were EUR 154 481 thousand, which compared to 31 December 2022, grew by EUR 9 573 thousand or 6.20%. The Companys total comprehensive loss for the period was EUR -760 thousand. During the 3-month period of 2023, shareholders' contributions amounted to EUR 4 489 thousand. Contact person for further information: Grete Bukauskaite Manager of the Investment Company grete.bukauskaite@lordslb.lt Attachment NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAW. CALGARY, Alberta, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Razor Energy Corp. ("Razor) (TSXV: RZE) is pleased to advise that over the past week it has restored the full 2,500 boe/d of production that was shut-in as a result of the Alberta wildfires. This was a combination of operated and non-operated production in Kaybob and Swan Hills areas. No damage has occurred to the Companys assets as a result of the wildfires. Razor thanks its staff, industry partners, emergency responders and firefighters for their hard work and dedication to protecting our communities. Golden, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Golden, Colorado - CO based Golden Fly Shop is pleased to announce that they have added Sage to their lineup of high quality fly fishing products. Sage rods are among the most renowned fly fishing rods in the world, and the shop looks forward to sharing their advantages with customers. Sage is a producer of high quality fly fishing rods and has been in the industry for decades. Their rods and other fishing apparatus are produced by passionate craftsmen who dedicate their lives to excellence. Each rod is designed by skilled design specialists before being carefully assembled by a team of highly skilled, passionate craftsmen. The shop is proud to be one of the few fly fishing shops to stock Sage products in Golden, CO, and customers can be sure they are getting authentic Sage fly fishing rods whenever they make a purchase here. Success in fly fishing relies on a number of factors of which a good rod is a prominent example. The right rod can make a world of difference (whether the person using it is a seasoned fisher or someone trying out fly fishing for the first time). A rod that is the right weight, right shape and which is comfortable to hold not only makes the experience more enjoyable, it also increases the likelihood of success. The designers and craftsmen at Sage take all of this into account when designing and assembling their rods. Sage believes in perfecting performance through their emphasis on design and function. Specialty products for specialty anglers is the philosophy followed by Sage, and many experienced fishers consider Sage to be their preferred brand for fly fishing products. Regarding Sage, Golden Fly Shop says, Years of fly fishing experience had taught Don that fly rods should never run out of power. While there might be fishing scenarios where the full power and flex of a fly rod were not utilized by the angler, the best designs were those that always held power in reserve. As a result, the name Reserve Power was given to the new style of fly rod Don developed using graphite to create high line speed for extra-long casts or windy conditions. The name was abbreviated to the RP. Released in 1983, this was the first major fly rod series released by Sage, and the RP family, built with Sages Graphite II Technology, quickly became the most talked-about fly rods in the world. There are a number of other brands available at the shop. The fly fishing store stocks fishing products for every preference and pocket. Sage now holds an honored place among the stores premium options and is mainly aimed at seasoned fly fishers. Novice fishermen looking to start their fly fishing adventure are encouraged to browse all the options available or get in contact with Golden Fly Shop and ask what products might be good for a beginner. Golden Fly Shop is a one-stop shop that supplies a wide range of quality fishing products allowing fly fishing enthusiasts to get the best without having to leave their homes. Their extensive collection is available online where customers can browse and make purchases with ease. They also have a physical location for customers who prefer to shop in person (or talk to Golden Fly Shops experts directly). The shop has received a large number of excellent reviews from its customers. One review says, Took a guided trip with Tristen & Brandon from Golden Fly Shop to Deckers on the South Platte May 2021 a spot we've fished before but have never had results like this double-digit totals on the day, including three large browns by my 10-year-old son. We killed it! Good dudes with top-notch gear and instruction, a most excellent experience. Would highly recommend to anyone interested in netting some nice fish regardless of skill level. Oh, and the shop itself is great as well. Knowledgeable staff and lots of nice gear/tools/materials to choose from and the shark is a nice touch! Customers may visit Golden Fly Shop or their official website for more information on their full range of fly fishing equipment. The shop can also be reached by phone or email. ### For more information about Golden Fly Shop, contact the company here: Golden Fly Shop Mike Tolerton (303) 330-1292 contact@goldenflyshop.com Golden Fly Shop 710 Golden Ridge Rd Ste 126 Golden, CO 80401 Fort Polk, LA (71446) Today A mix of clouds and sun during the morning will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 85F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Vancouver, May 30, 2023 - Carlin Gold Corp. (TSXV: CGD) (the "Company" or "Carlin") is pleased to announce that it intends to complete a restructuring transaction whereby it will complete a consolidation, private placement and shares-for-debt transaction. Consolidation The consolidation will be conducted on the basis of one (1) post-consolidated common share for every ten (10) pre-consolidated common shares (the "Consolidation"). Currently, a total of 88,939,464 common shares of the Company are issued and outstanding and, after the Consolidation, the Company will have approximately 8,893,946 issued and outstanding common shares. The Consolidation is subject to the approval of the TSXV and, once the Consolidation is approved, a new CUSIP number and letter of transmittal will be sent out to registered shareholders of the Company by the Company's transfer agent, Computershare Trust Company of Canada. The Consolidation is not subject to shareholder approval and no name change will be completed in conjunction with the Consolidation. The board of directors of the Company believe that the Consolidation is in the best interest of its shareholders as it is anticipated that the Consolidation will provide the Company with greater flexibility to arrange financings and complete strategic transactions and mineral property acquisitions. Private Placement of Units The Company also announces a non-brokered private placement offering of up to 5,000,000 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.12 per Unit (on a post-Consolidation basis) to raise gross proceeds of up to $600,000 (the "Private Placement"). Each unit will consist of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder, on exercise thereof, to purchase one additional common share of the Company at a price of $0.20 per share for a period of five years from the completion of the Private Placement. The Private Placement is subject to all necessary regulatory approvals, including acceptance from the TSXV. All securities issued in connection with the Private Placement will be subject to a four-month hold period from the closing date under applicable Canadian securities laws, in addition to such other restrictions as may apply under applicable securities laws of jurisdictions outside Canada. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Private Placement for general working capital purposes. Shares for Debt Transaction The Company also intends to issue 4,600,000 common shares of the Company (the "Settlement Shares") at a deemed price of $0.15 per share (on a post-Consolidation basis) in full and final settlement of outstanding debts totaling $772,539 (the "Debt") owing to certain directors and officers of the company for management fees (the "Debt Settlement"). The Company is proposing to issue the Settlement Shares in order to preserve cash to fund future operations. The issuance of Settlement Shares to K. Wayne Livingstone and Robert D. Thomas, each a director of the Company, and to Aris Morfopoulos, the Chief Financial Officer of the Company (collectively, the "Related Parties"), will each be considered to be a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The issuance of Settlement Shares, as it relates to the Related Parties, is exempt from the minority approval and formal valuation requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to subsections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101. The Debt Settlement is subject to all necessary regulatory approvals, including acceptance from the TSXV. All securities issued in connection with the Debt Settlement will be subject to a four-month hold period from the closing date under applicable Canadian securities laws, in addition to such other restrictions as may apply under applicable securities laws of jurisdictions outside Canada. About Carlin Carlin controls two 100% owned gold exploration properties in Nevada, the Cortez Summit property and Willow property, both containing Carlin-style gold targets. Cortez Summit lies about 1 kilometer north-east of the north end of Nevada Gold Mines' ("NGM") Goldrush deposit and east of Barrick Gold Corp.'s ("Barrick") Fourmile resource. The Goldrush deposit, currently under development, has a reported underground mineral resource with 6.6 million oz grading 7.8 g/t. indicated and 1.2 million oz grading 7.6. g/t Au inferred, for an attributable (61.5%) total of 7.8 million oz (Barrick 2019 annual report) of the overall NGM resource of 12.7 million oz. The Fourmile resource, owned by Barrick, and located directly north of Goldrush and west of Cortez Summit, has an indicated and inferred resource containing 2.55 M oz Au grading 10.6 gpt Au (Barrick 2021 annual report). NGM has completed a stand-alone underground feasibility study for the Goldrush deposit (Barrick Q3 2021 report). An Environmental Impact Statement has been completed, and a Record of Decision is expected in the second half of 2023 (Barrick Q1 2023 MD&A). The Willow property is an early-stage project in Elko County north of the town of Wells, Nevada. Willow is located within a potential new gold belt that contains the Long Canyon mine being operated by NGM. "K. Wayne Livingstone" K. Wayne Livingstone, President and Chief Executive Officer Telephone: (604) 638-1402 Website: www.carlingold.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Forward-Looking Statements: Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: 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 Consolidation; the Private Placement; and the Debt Settlement. 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, the Company not receiving the necessary regulatory approvals in respect of any of the transactions contemplated herein. 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 the necessary regulatory approvals in respect of each of the transactions contemplated herein. 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, except as required by applicable securities laws. Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168089 VANCOUVER, May 30, 2023 - Alaska Energy Metals Corp. (TSX-V: AEMC, OTCQB: MLRKF) ("Alaska Energy Metals" or the "Company") announces that it has closed the non-brokered private placements announced on May 12, 2023, raising total gross proceeds of $2,609,180 by the sale of an increased total of 9,318,500 common shares of the Company (each, a "Share"). Gross proceeds of $2,091,180 were issued under the listed issuer financing exemption by the sale of 7,468,500 Shares, and gross proceeds of $518,000 were issued under other prospectus exemptions (the "Non-LIFE Offering") by the sale of 1,850,000 Shares. Commissions totaling $61,404 were paid to finders, together with 407,110 Shares (the "Finder's Shares") and 626,410 Share purchase warrants (each, a "Finder's Warrant"). Each Finder's Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Share at a price of $0.28 for a period of 12 months from the date of issue. A due diligence fee of $30,000 was also paid. The Shares issued under the Non-LIFE Offering, the Finder's Shares, the Finder's Warrants, and the Shares issuable upon exercise of the Finder's Warrants are subject to a hold period expiring October 1, 2023. About Alaska Energy Metals Alaska Energy Metals Corp. is focused on delineating and developing a large polymetallic exploration target containing nickel, copper, cobalt, chrome, iron, platinum, and palladium. Located in development-friendly central Alaska near existing transportation and power infrastructure, the project is well-situated to become a significant, domestic source of critical and strategic energy-related metals. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD "Gregory Beischer" Gregory Beischer, President & CEO FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Gregory A. Beischer, President & CEO Toll-Free: 877-217-8978 | Local: 604-638-3164 This news release does not constitute an offer for sale, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, in the United States or to any "U.S Person" (as such term is defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act")) of any equity or other securities of the Company. The securities of the Company have not been, and will not be, registered under the 1933 Act or under any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to a U.S. Person absent registration under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws or an applicable exemption therefrom. VANCOUVER, May 30, 2023 - Candelaria Mining Corp. (TSX-V: CAND, OTC PINK: CDELF) (the "Company") announces, effective today, the following changes in members of senior management and the Board of Directors. Mr. Mike Struthers has resigned as the Chief Executive Officer and from the Board of Directors. Mr. Hector Gonzalez, the Company's current VP Exploration, has replaced Mr. Struthers as the Company's interim CEO. Mr. Gonzalez has also joined the Board of Directors. Mr. Ramon Perez, the Company's current President and a member of the Board of Director, Mr. Armando Alexandri, the Company's current Chief Operating Officer, and Mr. Matt Roma, a member of the Board of Directors, have all resigned from their positions at the Company. Mr. Struthers, Mr. Perez, Mr. Roma, and Mr. Alexandri resigned as they feel they no longer have the bandwidth to fully commit to perform their roles as officers and directors of the Company. The Company wishes to thank them all for their past services. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Sam Wong CFO +1 604 349 5992 For further information, please contact: Candelaria Mining Corp. Investor Relations +1 604 349 5992 | info@candelariamining.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Sydney, May 30, 2023 - Established gold producer Austral Gold Ltd.'s (ASX: AGD) (TSXV: AGLD) (Austral or the Company) subsidiary, Austral Gold North America Corp. (AGNA), has decided not to exercise the previously obtained takeover option under an agreement with Rawhide Acquisition Holding LLC ("RAH"), the RAH unit owners and the Rawhide lenders (the "Lenders"). The decision comes after AGNA provided bridge financing of US$555,000 to Rawhide, as announced on 8 May 2023. AGNA's interest in RAH remains at 24.74%. 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. Release approved by the Chief Executive Officer of Austral Gold, Stabro Kasaneva. For more information please contact: Jose Bordogna Chief Financial Officer Austral Gold Ltd. jose.bordogna@australgold.com +61 466 892 307 Gareth Quinn Media and Investor Relations Republic PR gareth@republicpr.com.au +61 417 711 108 Forward Looking Statements Statements in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical, and consist primarily of projections - statements regarding future plans, expectations and developments. Words such as "expects", "intends", "plans", "may", "could", "potential", "should", "anticipates", "likely", "believes" and words of similar import tend to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include those concerning the Company's 2023 forecasted production. All of these forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied, including, without limitation, business integration risks; uncertainty of discovery and production, development plans and cost estimates, commodity price fluctuations; political or economic instability and regulatory changes; currency fluctuations, the state of the capital markets, uncertainty in the measurement of mineral reserves and resource estimates, the Company's ability to attract and retain qualified personnel and management, potential labour unrest, reclamation and closure requirements for mineral properties; unpredictable risks and hazards related to the development and operation of a mine or mineral property that are beyond the Company's control, the availability of capital to fund all of the Company's projects and other risks and uncertainties identified under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's continuous disclosure documents filed with the ASX and on SEDAR. You are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used. The Company cannot assure you that actual events, performance or results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements, and management's assumptions may prove to be incorrect. The Company's forward-looking statements reflect current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. For the reasons set forth above, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. About Austral Gold Austral Gold is a growing gold and silver mining producer building a portfolio of quality assets in the Americas. Austral continues to lay the foundation for its growth strategy by advancing its attractive portfolio of producing and exploration assets. OPERATIONS Guanaco and Amancaya mines, Antofagasta Province, Chile (100% interest) Open pit and underground. 2023 Forecast: 34,000-38,000 gold equivalent ounces Casposo/Manantiales Mine Complex, San Juan Province, Argentina (100% interest) Gold and silver mine currently in care and maintenance. Strategy is to restart profitable mining operations. EXPLORATION CHILE ARGENTINA Paleocene Belt, Chile Guanaco District Amancaya District Las Pampa District Triassic Choiyoi Belt Indio Belt Deseado Massif EQUITY INVESTMENTS Unico Silver Limited, an ASX listed company Pampa Metals Corp., a CSE listed company Ensign Minerals Inc., private vehicle, Utah, USA Rawhide Mine, private vehicle, Fallon, Nevada, USA To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168101 Q1 Production of 13,951 Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO") Q1 Adjusted EBITDA of $8.2 million and operating cash flow of $17.3 million Q1 AISC of $1,145 per ounce (All numbers reported in US dollars) TORONTO, May 31, 2023 - Cerrado Gold Inc. (TSX.V:CERT)(OTCQX:CRDOF) ("Cerrado" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the operational and financial results for the first quarter 2023 ("Q1/23") at its Minera Don Nicolas ("MDN") gold project in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina and report on its ongoing activities at the Monte Do Carmo gold project ("MDC") in Brazil. Production results at MDN were previously released on April 24, 2023. The Company's quarterly financial results are reported and available on SEDAR as well as on the Company's website (www.cerradogold.com). Q1 2023 Minera Don Nicolas ("MDN") Operational Highlights: Gold production of 13,951 GEO in Q1/23, a 3% improvement year-on-year ("yoy") Operating margin of $6.8 million and operating cash flows of $17.3 million in the first quarter AISC of $1,145 per ounce during Q1/23 Mark Brennan, CEO and Chairman, stated: "These results demonstrate another solid quarter of production and operating performance from the team at MDN. We are now looking forward to the next stage of growth at MDN from the ramp up of our initial heap leach project at Las Calandrias which is on schedule for first gold production in June. In addition, work to complete the feasibility study at the Monte Do Carmo project in Brazil is progressing well, with completion expected in June. We expect the feasibility study to demonstrate the significant value of MDC as well as highlight the robust growth profile we expect to see in the coming years." First Quarter 2023 Operational and Financial Performance Q1/23 and Full Year Operational Highlights Minera Don Nicolas The Company produced 13,951 GEO during the three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to 13,388 GEO in the three months ended March 31, 2022. Production was 3% higher in the three months ended March 31, 2023, due to higher recoveries. The average quarterly gold head grade of 4.59 g/t recorded in the first quarter of 2023 represents a 2% decrease as compared to the average head grade of 4.68 g/t in the first quarter of 2022. Gold recovery of 92% represents a 4% increase in recovery as compared to 88% recorded in the first quarter of 2022. Silver recovery of 67% was also 4% higher than the silver recovery achieved in the first quarter of 2022. During Q1/2023, the team continued exploration efforts to advance several green and brownfield targets with the aim of increasing mine life and expanding the overall resource endowment, while continuing to support the move to underground mining at Paloma. Las Calandrias Project During Q1/2023, work on the engineering and construction of the Las Calandrias heap leach project was completed and placement of ore on to the pad commenced in April 2023. The first gold production is expected in June 2023. The Calandrias Heap Leach is expected to add incremental production to MDN commencing in 2023 and is the first step in Cerrado's plans for growing production capacity in Argentina in the near term. All Argentinian projects continue to be funded by cash flow and local debt facilities. Monte Do Carmo Project, Brazil During Q1/2023, the Company, together with its numerous advisors, continued to progress the completion of a bankable feasibility study ("FS") expected by the end of June 2023. In addition, regional exploration continues on the greater project area aimed at growing the known resources and extending the potential mine life. During the quarter, the exploration focus has been on the Northern extension of the Serra Alta deposit and to the north of Gogo, as well as on generating more greenfield targets such as Divisa for ongoing development. The Preliminary License ("LP") was issued from the Instituto Natureza do Tocantins ("NATURATINS") on May 29, 2023 and the License of Installation/Construction ("LI") is expected to follow within 90 -120 days of the LP issuance. Q1/2023 Financial Highlights The Company generated revenue of $27.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, from the sale of 16,255 GEO at an average realized price per gold ounce sold of $1,696 and price per silver ounce sold of $22.83. For the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company generated revenue of $27.4 million from the sale of 15,044 GEO. Revenue from sales of gold and silver for the current period was slightly higher than the three months ended March 31, 2022, due to the higher number of ounces sold, offset by the lower realized price in the current period due to a one-time deferred revenue adjustment of $2.4 million recorded in Q1/2023. Revenue for the quarter without the deferred revenue adjustment was $29.9 million. Cash costs per ounce sold were $1,139 per ounce in the three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to cash costs per ounce sold of $1,049 per ounce in the three months ended March 31, 2022, a 9% increase. The 9% increase is a result of higher consumables and material costs compared to the first quarter of 2022. Cash provided by operating activities during the first quarter ended March 31, 2023, was $17.3 million compared to cash provided by operating activities of $8.8 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2022. Cash provided by operating activities before working capital changes in 2023 consisted of $12.6 million as compared to $6.6 million of cash provided by operating activities before working capital changes in 2022. Adjusted EBITDA was $8.2 million in the first quarter of 2023 as compared to $9.7 million in the first quarter of 2022. Current year adjusted EBITDA was slightly lower due to higher production and general and administrative costs, offset by higher cash sales in Q1/2023. Net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2023 was $7.4 million, as compared to a $3.4 million net income for the three months ended March 31, 2022, a difference of $10 million. The decrease in net income is primarily a result of an increase in tax expense of $2 million, a non-cash remeasurement loss on the secured notes and stream of $2.6 million, an increase in finance expense of $2.2 million and an increase in general and administrative expenses of $1.6 million recorded in the first quarter of 2023 as compared to the first quarter of 2022. Basic and diluted loss per share for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was $0.09, compared to the basic and diluted earnings per share of $0.04 for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a $0.13 per share decrease as a result of higher taxes, remeasurement loss on the secured notes and stream obligation and higher general and administrative costs. Mark Brennan Mike McAllister CEO and Chairman Vice President, Investor Relations Tel: +1-647-796-0023 Tel: +1-647-805-5662 mbrennan@cerradogold.com mmcallister@cerradogold.com About Cerrado Gold Cerrado is a Toronto based gold production, development and exploration company focused on gold projects in the Americas. The Company is the 100% owner of both the producing Minera Don Nicolas mine in Santa Cruz province, Argentina, and the highly prospective development project, Monte do Carmo located in Tocantins State, Brazil. Disclaimer NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation, all statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect ", "is expected ", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding the business and operations of Cerrado. In making the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, Cerrado has made certain assumptions, including, but not limited to the expected timing of commencement of gold production at Las Calandrias, the expectations of 2023 results as well as timing of completion of the FS and permitting milestones at the MDC project. Although Cerrado believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, Cerrado disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise. SOURCE: Cerrado Gold Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/758214/Cerrado-Gold-Reports-Q1-Cashflow-and-Operating-Performance-at-Its-Minera-Don-Nicolas-Mine Toronto, May 31, 2023 - Royal Road Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: RYR) ("Royal Road" or the "Company") announces that it has agreed to terminate all agreements governing joint exploration activities and underlying rights with and between Mineros S.A ("Mineros") and related subsidiaries in Nicaragua, Argentina and Colombia. The effect of these terminations are full and final and such that Mineros shall withdraw their 50% contractual interest in the Company's Guintar-Niverengo-Margaritas (GNM) properties in Antioquia, Colombia and Royal Road shall retain a 100% of those properties and that Royal Road shall withdraw its contractual interests in the exploration strategic alliance in Nicaragua, underlying properties and royalty rights and Mineros (through its subsidiary Hemco Nicaragua S.A) shall retain 100%. Mineros and Royal Road have also agreed to annul a cooperation agreement concerning Mineros's Gualcamayo gold project in Argentina. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For further information please contact: Tim Coughlin +44 (0)1534 887166 info@royalroadminerals.com Cautionary statement: This news release contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements") describing the Company's future plans and the expectations of its management that a stated result or condition will occur. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, or developments in the Company's business or in the mineral resources industry, to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance, achievements or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include all disclosure regarding possible events, conditions or results of operations that is based on assumptions about, among other things, the Alliance, the intention to form a joint venture, enter into a related agreement and establish Newco and, more generally, future economic conditions and courses of action, and assumptions related to government approvals, and anticipated costs and expenditures. The words "plans", "prospective", "expect", "intend", "intends to" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, which may also include, without limitation, any statement relating to future events, conditions or circumstances. Forward-looking statements of the Company contained in this news release, which may prove to be incorrect, include, but are not limited to the Company's exploration plans. The Company cautions you not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. There is no guarantee that the anticipated benefits of the Company's business plans or operations will be achieved. The risks and uncertainties that may affect forward-looking statements include, among others: economic market conditions, anticipated costs and expenditures, government approvals, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with Canadian provincial securities regulators or other applicable regulatory authorities. Forward-looking statements included herein are based on the current plans, estimates, projections, beliefs and opinions of the Company management and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements should assumptions related to these plans, estimates, projections, beliefs and opinions change. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168156 SINGAPORE, May 31, 2023 - Pursuant to early warning requirements, Mercuria Energy Holdings (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. ("Mercuria") reports that it has acquired beneficial ownership of, and control or direction over, 25,848,765 common shares ("Common Shares") of Nevada Copper Corp. (the "Company") as a result of the exercise on May 10, 2023 of 25,848,765 Common Share purchase warrants previously issued to Mercuria by the Company on October 28, 2022 (the "Previous Warrants"). The total consideration paid for the Common Shares purchased by Mercuria as a result of the exercise of the Previous Warrants was C$6,700,000, at an exercise price of C$0.2592 per Common Share. As well, Mercuria acquired beneficial ownership of, and control or direction over, an additional 24,814,814 Common Shares and 12,407,407 Common Share purchase warrants ("New Warrants" and together with the Previous Warrants and all other warrants that may be owned by Mercuria at any time being the "Warrants") as a result of the purchase of 24,814,814 units of the Company ("Units") in the Company's public offering (the "Offering") of Units that closed on May 30, 2023. Under the Offering, the Company issued 196,038,400 Units. Each Unit consisted of one Common Share and one-half of one New Warrant. The total consideration paid for the 24,814,814 Units purchased by Mercuria under the Offering was approximately C$6,700,000, at a price of C$0.27 per Unit. On October 28, 2022, the Company issued to Mercuria a pro rata Common Share purchase warrant certificate (the "Warrant Certificate") pursuant to which Mercuria was granted 127,720,000 Previous Warrants, with each such Previous Warrant entitling Mercuria, upon the vesting of such Previous Warrants in accordance with the terms of the Warrant Certificate, to purchase one Common Share of the Company for each issued Previous Warrant at a purchase price of CAD$0.2592 per Common Share. The Previous Warrants vest, from time to time, in conjunction with the exercise of any of the warrants issued by the Company to Pala Investments Limited ("Pala") on October 28, 2022 (the "Pala Warrants"), thereby providing Mercuria with an ability to maintain its pro rata shareholding in the Company. Pursuant to a funding transaction agreed to on May 9, 2023 between the Company and certain stakeholders of the Company (including Mercuria) (the "Funding Transaction"), Mercuria agreed to exercise US$5,000,000 of Previous Warrants upon the announcement of the Funding Transaction and the Offering and upon the vesting of a sufficient number of such Previous Warrants to allow for such exercise. On May 10, 2023, Mercuria received a Previous Warrant vesting notice from the Company confirming that 14,733,800 Previous Warrants had vested as a result of the exercise by Pala of 46,000,000 Pala Warrants and waiving the vesting conditions set out in the Warrant Certificate in respect of an additional 11,114,965 Previous Warrants, thereby confirming that 25,848,765 Previous Warrants had become "Vested Warrants" under the Warrant Certificate. Upon receipt of such notice, Mercuria exercised all of the vested Previous Warrants to purchase 25,848,765 Common Shares at a price per Common Share of CAD$0.2592, for aggregate proceeds to the Company of approximately CAD$6,700,000 (US$5,000,000, converted using the Bank of Canada's exchange rate of 1.34 USD/CAD on May 8, 2023 (the "Exchange Rate")). Subsequently, on May 30, 2023, Mercuria purchased 24,814,814 Units under the Offering at a price per Unit of CAD$0.27, for aggregate proceeds to the Company of CAD$6,700,000 (US$5,000,000, converted using the Exchange Rate), resulting in the acquisition by Mercuria of an additional 24,814,814 Common Shares and 12,407,407 New Warrants. On May 29, 2023, 24,350,000 Warrants previously issued to Mercuria as part of units purchased by Mercuria pursuant to a public offering undertaken by the Company on November 29, 2021 expired, unexercised, in accordance with their terms. Further information in respect of the exercise of the Previous Warrants, the participation in the Funding Transaction (and the other transactions completed or contemplated by the Company thereunder) and the Offering is contained in the Company's press releases dated May 9, 2023 and May 30, 2023, copies of which can be found under the SEDAR profile of the Company at www.sedar.com. Immediately prior to the exercise of the Previous Warrants, Mercuria had beneficial ownership of and exercised control or direction over 175,700,394 Common Shares and 152,070,000 Warrants, representing approximately 24.28% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis (on the basis of 723,508,700 Common Shares being issued and outstanding), and approximately 25.72% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of all of the Pala Warrants and the Warrants then beneficially owned, controlled or directed by Mercuria. Immediately following the exercise of the Pala Warrants and the Previous Warrants and prior to the closing of the Offering, Mercuria had beneficial ownership of and exercised control or direction over 201,549,159 Common Shares and 126,221,235 Warrants, representing approximately 25.34% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis (on the basis of 795,357,465 Common Shares being issued and outstanding), and approximately 25.72% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of all of the Pala Warrants and the Warrants beneficially owned, controlled or directed by Mercuria. As a result of the exercise of the Pala Warrants and the Previous Warrants, the securityholding percentage of Mercuria in Common Shares of the Company increased from 24.33% to 25.34% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis, constituting an ownership increase of approximately 1.01%, and remained the same at approximately 25.72% on a partially-diluted basis. Immediately following the closing of the Offering, Mercuria had beneficial ownership of and exercised control or direction over 226,363,973 Common Shares and 114,278,642 Warrants, representing approximately 22.83% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis (on the basis of 991,395,865 Common Shares being issued and outstanding), and approximately 23.36% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of all of the Pala Warrants and the Warrants beneficially owned, controlled or directed by Mercuria. As a result of the closing of the Offering, the securityholding percentage of Mercuria in Common Shares of the Company decreased from 25.34% to 22.83% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis, constituting an ownership decrease of approximately 2.51%, and from 25.72% to 23.36% on a partially-diluted basis, constituting a decrease of approximately 2.36%. Mercuria holds the Common Shares and Warrants for investment purposes. Mercuria or another controlled entity, may acquire or dispose of additional securities of the Company in the future through the market, privately, or otherwise, as circumstances or market conditions warrant. Any transaction that Mercuria or another controlled entity, may pursue may be made at any time and from time to time without prior notice and will depend on a variety of factors, including, without limitation, the price and availability of the Company's securities, subsequent developments affecting the Company, its business and prospects, other investment and business opportunities available to Mercuria, general industry and economic conditions, the securities markets in general, tax considerations and other factors deemed relevant by Mercuria. The head office of the Company is located at 61 E. Pursel Lane, Yerington, Nevada, 89447. Mercuria will file an early warning report under the SEDAR profile of the Company at www.sedar.com. Mercuria Energy Holdings (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. 12 Marina View #26-01 Asia Square Tower 2 Singapore (018961) About Mercuria Established in 2004, the Mercuria group is one of the largest independent energy and commodity groups in the world, bringing efficiency to the commodity value chain with technology, expertise and solutions. Mercuria's business includes trading flows, strategic assets and structuring activities that generate more than $120 billion in turnover. The company has built upon a series of strategic acquisitions, including the physical commodities trading unit of JPMorgan Chase & Company, Noble Group's US gas and power business and the Aegean Marine Petroleum Network, reorganized as Minerva Bunkering. It has become one of the most active players in the renewable markets with more than fifty percent of new investments dedicated to the energy transition. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAW. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/acquisition-of-additional-shares-of-nevada-copper-corp-by-mercuria-301838739.html SOURCE Mercuria Energy Mark Peplow in Nature: Half a decade ago, chemist Mark Levin was a postdoc looking for a visionary project that could change his field. He found inspiration in a set of published wish lists from pharmaceutical-industry scientists who were looking for ways to transform medicinal chemistry1,2. Among their dreams, one concept stood out: the ability to precisely edit a molecule by deleting, adding or swapping single atoms in its core. This sort of molecular surgery could dramatically speed up drug discovery and might altogether revolutionize how organic chemists design molecules. One 2018 review called it a moonshot concept. Levin was hooked. Now head of a team at the University of Chicago in Illinois, Levin is among a cadre of chemists pioneering these techniques, aiming to more efficiently forge new drugs, polymers and biological molecules such as peptides. In the past two years, more than 100 papers on the technique known as skeletal editing have been published, demonstrating its potential (see Skeletal editing on the rise). Theres a tremendous amount of buzz right now around this topic, says Danielle Schultz, director of discovery-process chemistry at pharmaceutical company Merck in Kenilworth, New Jersey. More here. First AfCFTA grand sales exhibition, confab open in Accra Elizabeth Konadu-Boakye Business News May - 31 - 2023 , 11:12 The maiden Made in Africa and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA ) Grand Sale Exhibition and Conference opened in Accra yesterday with a call on African governments to build on the peace of the continent to facilitate trade and development. The Chairperson of the Africa Private Sector Summit, Wendell Addy, who made the call said failure to uphold peace and security in the continent would be a threat to the survival of AfCFTA which was geared towards trading among countries on the continent. In sustaining peace within the continent, Mr Addy told the Daily Graphic on the sidelines of the event that there was a need for citizens to take another look at the reason for their affiliation to political parties. He said voting and political party affiliation should not be based on tribe and ethnicity but on principles and what the political party stood for. "Citizens should join parties because of the principles, character, policies and ideologies of the party and I believe that when we do that the political parties will begin to align themselves with good ideologies which will bring peace and stability," he said. Exhibition An exhibitor (2nd from right) explaining the use of her products to Grace Jeanet Mason (3rd from right), South Africa High Commissioner to Ghana, J. Wendell Addy (3rd from left), Chairperson of Africa Private Sector Summit, Ngozi Oyewole (2nd from left), Founder of Noxie Limited, Nigeria, and Louis Afful (left), Executive Director, AfCFTA Policy Network Ghana, during the exhibition. Picture: EDNA SALVO-KOTEY The two-day eventorganised by the AfCFTA Policy Network (APN), is on the theme "AfCFTA and Africa's challenging macroeconomic experience, risks and financing opportunities." It is being attended by over 20 exhibitors who are into clothing and textiles, artefacts, footwear, cosmetics, among others. It also brought together some dignitaries from across the continent to deliberate on challenges with regard to the continental trade and how to find solutions to challenges in the area of trading among the various countries. Boarder communication Dr Ngozi Oyewole, Chief Executive Officer of Noxie Limited in Nigeria Speaking at the programme, the Chief Executive Officer of Noxie Limited in Nigeria, Dr Ngozi Oyewole, called on stakeholders of the AfCFTA to encourage effective border communication to allow easy flow of trade. She also stressed the need for a proper policy to be put in place to eliminate sexual harassment and gender-based violence in the economic. Opportunities The South African Ambassador to Ghana, Janet Mason, said the AfCFTA was a catalyst for continents development, and charged all countries to embrace it. She further called on all Africans to use the initiative to encourage and preach what was proudly African and what made the continent unique. The APN In his welcoming address, the Executive Director of APN, Mr Louis Afful lauded the participants for championing intra African trade. The APN was established in 2019 as the lead and largest international non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused primarily as a think tank on AfCFTA implementation. Afia Schwarzenegger sues Maurice Ampaw for defamation Graphic Showbiz Showbiz News May - 30 - 2023 , 19:47 Popular Ghanaian media personality/comedienne Afia Schwarzenegger has sued Maurice Ampaw. In a writ of summons, which has also been circulated on social media and sighted by Graphic Showbiz, Afia Schwarzenegger, real name, Valentina Nana Agyeiwaa is requesting Ghc1,000,000 in general damages for defamation from the legal practitioner. She is also seeking an order of perpetual injunction to restrain the defendant from telling, saying or discussing anything about her on any communication channel, whether print, radio, electronic or social media. In the writ of summons, the defendant has to pay costs, including legal fees. Afia Schwarzenegger and Lawyer Maurice Ampaw have been at each others throats since last year following the formers legal tussle with Bernard Antwi Boasiako popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). The legal battle started after Afia Schwarzenneger claimed to have had an amorous relationship with Chairman Wontumi and made other allegations against him. Recommended articles One week observation of Kwadwo Akwaboah held Shirley Frimpong Manso is not celebrated enough Actress Luckie Lawson Kwabena Kwabena says marrying early stole precious years of his life A third man has been charged over the murder of Run-DMC star Jam Master Jay, prosecutors in New York have confirmed. Jay Bryant, 49, from Queens, who was in custody already on unrelated federal drug charges, denies the charges. Bhav Jain and Simar Bajaj in Smithsonian: Imagine youre in a room with a hundred American young adults, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Over their lifetimes, about 25 of them will have a stroke; 40 will get cancer. And an astounding half the room will develop a mental illness, if they havent done so already. The United States mental health epidemic has been simmering for decades, with Covid-19 both illuminating and exacerbating the crisis. Given the social isolation, job insecurity and weakened support systems over the past few years, the World Health Organization estimated a 25 percent increase in anxiety and depression worldwide, with women and young people worst hit. A large part of the challenge are the cavernous gaps in care: 158 million Americans live in an area with a shortage of mental health workers. And while the rise of telehealth and creation of the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline have helped, they are only Band-Aids, barely holding together a system failing at its seams. Were at a point in the U.S. where it almost couldnt get worse, says Kenneth Pages, a Florida doctor and former chief of psychiatry at Tampa General Hospital. Describe worse to me at this point. More here. Retiring in their prime Dr Prosper Andre Batinge Opinion May - 31 - 2023 , 09:29 When the judiciary begins its next legal year in October 2023, two of Ghanas Supreme Court Justices would have retired from the bench at just 70 years old. Intellectually and experientially, these two Justices, like many retired Supreme Court Justices before them, would be retiring in their prime. Chief Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah and associate Justice Jones Victor Mawulorm Dotse both retire this summer. Both are retiring at a time Ghana could benefit invaluably from their decades of learning and experience, first, at the bar and, later, on the bench. In the past, Ghana has witnessed great Chief Justices and great Associate Justices step down from the bench because Article 145(2)a of the 1992 Constitution says they should do so when they turn 70. At the time of retiring, many of these Chief Justices and Associate Justices are really in their prime and better placed to serve our dear nation and its judiciary with valuable knowledge and uncommon experience accumulated over the decades. A justice of the Supreme Court is not an ordinary citizen. Often, she acquires her knowledge, skills and experience after years and years of learning and practising at the bar and, often for many of them, after further years on courts beneath the Supreme Court. Unlike most professions thus, a Justice of the Supreme Court comes of age and attains the prime of her profession very late in years. Sadly, in Ghana, this is when she is constitutionally mandated to retire. Age I am ideologically against tempering with a reasonable and workable constitution such as the 1992 Constitution. But it appears reconsidering the age at which our Supreme Court Justices retire might be necessary. At 70, admittedly, a person is less physically robust. The duties of Justices of the Supreme Court, however, require the use of the mind, not the brute exertion of muscles. Theirs is a supreme task that employs wisdom, measured speech, sound judgment and sound pragmatism, traits that catalyst the nations development efforts. Such cultivated mental maturity and dexterity, it has been scientifically demonstrated, turns to decline when most people turn 80. At 70 also, Supreme Court Justices are the living tradition of the nations legal culture and values and aspirations. New and younger members of the bar and the bench look up to them for guidance in legal knowledge, legal ethics and much more. The nation expects them to expertly bend the arch of its development endeavours towards the most cherished values and aspirations of the 1992 Constitution. There is a good reason why one of the oldest institutions in history, the Roman Catholic Church, canonically mandates its bishops or archbishops to offer their resignation to the pope at age 75. When tendered, the pope is at liberty to accept or decline the offer to resign from office as bishop or archbishop. The pope himself, under canon law, holds his office for life. On the bench, especially the apex bench, old age is a virtue, not a liability. At 70, our Supreme Court Justices often gain valuable experience and knowledge and are well-poised to serve to the nation wisely and pragmatically. Sadly, this is the age the Constitution mandates them to deliver their valedictory judgment, draw the curtain, and take their final bow from the bench. It is a little consoling that after retiring in their prime, our constitutional arrangement allows Justices to serve our nation in strategic ways in education, governance and security. But still, the nation would gain more if they served for at least another decade on the bench. An encomium Mr Kwasi Anin Yeboah has done so well as Chief Justice. Among so many commendable achievements, he fronted the expansion of the frontiers of justice in Ghana through the erection of courthouses and court complexes as well as residential facilities for magistrates and judges. In the last months of his tenure, each week met with Mr Anin Yeboah commissioning a court complex or a residential facility for judicial persons. The list is long and includes the commissioning of a courthouse complex in Boamang in the Afigya Kwabre North District in the Ashanti Region; the commissioning of two court premises in Gomoa Central and Agona East in the Central Region; the commissioning of an ultra-modern courthouse at Asesewa in the Eastern Region; the commissioning of a modern circuit court at Kyekyewere/Nsuaem at Assin South in the Central Region; and the commissioning of the Gbese District Court at Ayalolo in Accra. The long list also includes the commissioning of the new High Court in Dambai in the Oti Region and the High Court at Gbetsile in the Kpone Katamanso Municipality. These facilities, part of the governments plan to build 120 courts and 150 bungalows, are modernised with solar panels, standby power plants and boreholes. The retiring Chief Justice did well in collaborating with the government, local assemblies and traditional authorities to put facilities that would undoubtedly contribute to the speedy delivery of justice in Ghana. Thanks for your service and Godspeed. Ghana still one of the countries taxing menstrual products David Aidoo Opinion May - 31 - 2023 , 08:46 On average, women and young girls will have four hundred and fifty (450) menstruation over their lifetime, which equals three thousand five hundred (3,500) days spent menstruating and requiring over 10,000 menstrual products in ones lifetime. Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, yet women and young girls, through no fault of theirs will have to commit resources during their lifetime to manage menstruation, particularly menstrual products. The cost associated with menstrual products keeps increasing by the day as the world goes through economic challenges. It is estimated that every woman/adolescent girl who menstruates 450 times in their lifetime; spent an average of USD$20 spent on menstrual products per cycle, which totals USD$9,000 over their lifetime. Governments over the world are working to reduce this burden on women by letting go of taxes on menstrual products, yet Ghana, a country that has a population of more women than men continues to TAX menstrual products. How can Ghana work to affirm its commitments to affirmative action and consolidate its efforts to provide equal human rights to all Ghanaians? Menstruation, products Menstruation is the regular discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the inner lining of the uterus through the vagina. The menstrual cycle is characterised by the rise and fall of hormones. Menstruation is triggered by falling progesterone levels and is a sign that pregnancy has not occurred. The first menstruation usually begins between the ages of 12 and 15. The typical length of time between the first day of ones menstruation and the first day of the next is 21 to 45 days in young women. In adults, the range is between 21 and 31 days with the average being 28 days. Bleeding usually lasts around 2 to 7 days. Menstruation ceases after menopause, which usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age. Menstrual health (MH) is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being in relation to a menstrual cycle. While there is no specific goal or indicator on Menstrual Health in any of the sustainable development goals (SDGs), it has been argued that menstruation matters to the achievement of the SDGs, and that menstruation is directly linked to a number of SDGS including but not limited to Goal 3; Goal 4; Goal 5; Goal 6; Goal 8; and Goal 12. During the 50th session of the Human Rights Council panel discussion on menstrual hygiene management, human rights and gender equality, it was stated that though MH is not explicitly stated in the SDG targets, it has been placed on the global health, education, human rights and gender equality/equity agendas by grass-roots workers and activists from the global south, drawing attention to reports of women and girls experiences of shame and embarrassment, and the barriers they face in managing their period because they do not have the means to do so, with consequences for their life opportunities including their rights to education, work, water and sanitation, non-discrimination and gender equality and ultimately to health. Menstrual hygiene materials are materials used to catch menstrual flow, such as cloths, reusable and disposable pads, menstrual cups and tampons. Menstrual supplies are other supportive items for menstrual hygiene and health more broadly, such as soap, underwear and pain relief. A wide range of menstrual hygiene materials, under many different product names, are available around the world including Ghana. Many products are promoted by their manufacturers based on claims of appropriateness, culturally acceptability, cost effectiveness or reduced environmental impact. From the 2021 WHO JPM 2021 Menstrual health data, ninety 98 per cent of women and girls in Ghana use menstrual materials, 13 per cent use reusable menstrual materials and 85 per cent use single-use menstrual materials. At the rural level, the same 98 per cent of women and girls use menstrual materials, while 18 per cent and 80 per cent use reusable menstrual materials and single-use menstrual materials respectively. Ghanas tax system, menstrual products A tax is a compulsory financial charge, or some other type of levy imposed on a taxpayer (an individual or legal entity) by a governmental organisation in order to fund government spending and various public expenditures. Ghana is a unitary state, and as such the Government of Ghana sets tax policy and collects tax revenues for the whole of the country. The government receives revenues from a wide variety of sources, but these can be broadly split into two categories: tax revenues and non-tax revenues. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) by Act 791 has been mandated to perform a number of functions which include assess and collect taxes, interest and penalties on taxes due to the Republic with optimum efficiency, and this function puts them in charge of tax revenue collection on behalf of the government. GRA distinguishes between three main groups of taxes: taxes on income and profits (direct taxes); taxes on goods and services (indirect taxes); and taxes on international trade (customs taxes). The Institute of Fiscal Studies and Ghanas Ministry of Finance in a 2021 publication (A survey of the Ghanaian tax system) provided an analysis of tax revenue for the country from 2000 to 2019. Between 2000 and 2019, revenues from direct taxation grew from 2.5 per cent of GDP to over six per cent of GDP. Indirect tax revenue excluding import duties saw a more modest growth, increasing from just under 4 per cent of GDP to just over 5 per cent. Import duty revenues have been relatively stable for the past two decades, inching up from 1.5 per cent of GDP in 2000 to just over 2 per cent between 2016 and 2018. With commodity imports as a share of GDP changing little over time. Menstrual products are either produced or are imported into the country. In reference to Excise Duty Act, 2014 (ACT 878) as amended by Excise Duty (Amendment) (No.2) ACT, 2015 (ACT 903) section 1, Excise duty is payable where the goods are (a) manufactured in the country; or (b) imported into the country. Section 2 of the act talks about exempt goods and nothing contained under the section refers to menstrual products as being exempted from excise duty, whether being imported or being manufactured in the country. First Schedule of the act, which specifies rates at which goods should be taxed refers to pharmaceutical good being subject to an excise duty at zero per centum, but excludes menstrual products. Ghana operates five-band tax rates for goods imported into the country in line with ECOWAS Common External Tariffs. Menstrual products fall under band four [finished goods (final consumer goods)], and that is subject to a tax rate of 20 per cent. Import of goods into the country, and export of goods are subject to Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with Value Added Tax Act, 2013 (Act 870) and Value Added Tax Regulations, 2016 (L.I.2243). Menstrual products, which are not exempt from excise duty, are further subjected to VAT in line with Act 870, at current rate of 17 per cent. While Ghana continues to tax menstrual products, more than 26 countries in the world apply zero rate on menstrual products, and 16 countries apply a reduced rate on menstrual products. A publication by UKAid and Work and Opportunities for Women (WOW_ in May 2020 dubbed Taxes and duties for sanitary products in Africa stated among other things that seven African countries have some tax reliefs on menstrual products. Of the seven countries, it is only two (Nigeria and Mauritania) that come from West Africa. Nigeria grants tax reliefs on locally manufactured menstrual products, while Mauritania has tax reliefs on sanitary wear. Call to action The Vice-President of the republic, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, in 2020 gave an assurance that his government would remove import duties on sanitary pads if its mandate was renewed for the next four years. However, this is yet to materialise. A webinar organised by WASH United in partnership with other like-minded organisations on Collective actions to end period taxes in Ghana established four key reasons to remove period tax, which are: menstrual products are basic necessities; taxes on menstrual products are gender discriminatory; removal of the taxes will make menstrual products accessible and affordable for all; and will also tackle the stigma on menstruation. While it has been established on how important taxes are to the development of the country, Dr Laura Rossouw and Dr Hana Ross in their publication. An Economic Assessment of Menstrual Hygiene Product Tax Cuts established strong justification on the need for governments across the globe, especially in Africa to consider the removal of PERIOD TAX. The time is now for Ghana to make a bold decision to remove completely all taxes on menstrual products (sanitary wear). This will go a long way in promoting gender equality, and making our women feel proud to be Ghanaian. The complete removal will also make Ghana the second country in West Africa after Mauritania to have chalked up this milestone. Market Women engaging community members on menstrual pads and calling on government and its agencies to remove taxes on menstrual products. Leveraging CSR as core sustainability strategy to driving businesses Yaw Frempong Ampomah Opinion May - 31 - 2023 , 11:57 Globally, the growing demand for energy has translated into an increasing expectation on organisations in the extractive sector to fit sustainable Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategies in their business models. On this premise, energy companies are required to set part of their focus on committing to addressing the challenges associated with their operations a responsibility very well understood by the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC). By any objective measure, GNPC, through the provision of leadership by its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Opoku-Ahweneeh Danquah, has maintained its position as not only socially accountable to itself but also to communities and the people of Ghana. Global oil A position that resonates with its corporate vision to be a leading global oil and gas company whose operations have a profound impact on the quality of life of the people of Ghana. Beyond the safeguarding of the environment through sustainable practices, the National Oil Company continues to demonstrate unwavering resolve to provide critical support to communities and their development through the designing and implementation of tailored intervention programmes aimed at ameliorating the environmental, social and economic impact of its activities within its production enclave and beyond. Despite the myriad of challenges and opposition in the execution of its CSR strategies, the GNPC CEO has committed to ensuring the consolidation of gains made by the GNPC Foundation, in protecting the assets of GNPC and its partner operators in the upstream petroleum sector. Western Region With the Western Region serving as home to the core of Ghanas current oil operations and giving the geographical scope of the Voltaian Basin Project, Mr Danquah believes that upholding the tenets of the corporations CSR activities across the country is an integral component of its strategy to securing the social licence needed to peacefully operate; averting potential sources of conflict and opposition that could hinder the goal of increasing oil production and growing GNPCs core business. While this is not an exhaustive list under its CSR scope, a key area for the advancement of GNPCs support to communities and people development is the investments in education and training. GNPC has supported the training of about 6,000 qualified Ghanaian students with scholarships to pursue various graduate and postgraduate studies across institutions both home and abroad. The foundation continues to commit funds to erect school infrastructure while providing basic social amenities in areas in dire need of them. GNPC has completed 91 classroom blocks with 50 more at various levels of completion, five dormitories with six more pending to be completed, three science laboratories with five more at various completion levels, and 16 Astroturfs with 16 more pending completion in communities and schools. Also, there are 383 boreholes and 32 sanitary facilities with 319 and 54 others respectively at various levels of completion to help alleviate water and sanitation-related health challenges in rural communities. Furthermore, and through the Skilled Artisans project, GNPC is enhancing the livelihoods of some 2050 youth who are being trained with employable skills in various vocations. These youth are being supported with requisite tools relevant to their respective vocations to begin their entrepreneurial journeys,keeping them off the streets so they dont become a burden to the society. While these activities are far from an exhausted list of its CSR scope, it offers credence to O-A Danquahs belief that the business of corporations such as the GNPC must continue to impact positively on communities; that CSR and community investment strategies must align with GNPCs business decisions on sustainability and creating economic, social and environmental value. The writer is with the Corporate Affairs Department, GNPC. Prioritise Keta Port, landing sites too Enyonam Adzo Apetorgbor Opinion May - 31 - 2023 , 12:02 President, I salute you on the successful completion and inauguration of the 70 million Euro Elmina Fishing Harbour. This no doubt is an important addition to the infrastructure of this nation. However, there is a related matter that you have to prioritise as well. It is the fact that it has been six years since your government announced the plan to develop the Keta Port and Landing sites. We have since been told that the feasibility study for the project was completed over three years ago, but we have not seen any action at the site beyond the erection of a container office which has become tourist site and remains unused for over four years. By the way, it has started corroding. Can you give us an assurance that the Keta Port project is among your priority-project list? As you reach the dying embers of your second term, I am appealing to you to leave the Keta enclave an important legacy by constructing this Keta Port whose strategic importance to Ghana is in no doubt because if its geographical location. This project promises to be a major economic booster for the entire Volta region and the entire country by creating jobs for the teeming unemployed youths, generating revenue for the state and easing the pressure on the Tema Port. We the people of Keta will forever remember you, at least for starting this important project.Kindly leave us this 'adjapadie'. The writer is the Chief Executive, Keta Investment Promotion Center (KIPC). Western Togoland My take on the enigma Wg. Cdr. Kwaku Kekrebesi Opinion May - 31 - 2023 , 08:28 In 1884, the Germans also arrived on the coast of West Africa to join the bandwagon of colonialists. This German adventure was the outcome of what became known as the Berlin Conference, where all European nations were called to declare their colonial possessions in order to curtail petty squabblings among them. The German leader at the time, Otto Von Bismarck, declared that "Germany also needs a place in the sun." Connoting Germany must also possess the empires of Britain and France in Africa. So the Germans arrived with a bang in 1884 to establish one of their colonies in Africa, called German Togo. However, in 1914, Germany was blamed for starting the First World War in Europe and was declared an enemy state. History has it that British soldiers from the Gold Coast and French soldiers from Dahomey, now Benin, marched on the small garrison of German soldiers from the west and east, respectively, and crashed them. Michael Crowder's account in his book, West Africa Under Colonial Rule (1976), said the Germans had only the equivalent of a police force in place. Division The German colony was then divided between the British and the French but remained Mandated Territories, first under the League of Nations and later as Trust Territories under the United Nations. The British called their portion British Togoland while the French continued to rule their part until granting it independence in 1963 as the Republic of Togo. The British divided their portion into two, northern and southern British Togoland. The northern part was administered by the northern territories of the Gold Coast while the south was attached to the eastern province, administratively. Many Historians blame Britain for the mess we are now calling Western TogoIand agitations. In the study, I never came across the name Western Togoland and I am not sure when it was first used. Like, dislike While the split of German Togo benefited most of the people in the north, especially the Dagombas, Mamprusis and the Gonjas, the majority of Ees in the south were aggrieved. The Northerners had benefited because their traditional homes and people had been joined to their commercial centres. Dagombas for example, now have their traditional home of Yendi under the same colonial administration as their commercial centre in Tamale. The Ees on the other hand have left their kith and kin back in the French side of German Togo and wished for the re-creation of German Togo. This ambivalence could only be solved through the tacit agreement of Britain and France. Colonial/Native disagreement Britain and France did what they wanted and all the protestations of the Ees fell on deaf ears. The Ees took their case to the United Nations. They even petitioned King George V of England. In what Professor D.E.K Amenumey Ee Unification Movement (1989) described as petitions against partition, the Ees in their desperation sent a cable to President Harding of the United States. No one can say the Ees did not try. Agenda of Ees During all their struggles, the Ees never hid the fact that they hated the French with a passion. The Ees wished to be under a single colonial administration, and that administration was that of the British. Indeed, the Ee Unification Movement spelt out these aims and objectives of the Ees. Ees, however, enjoyed the full support of the people in northern British Togoland. Having failed in their bid to re-establish German Togo, the Ees in British Togoland now turned their attention to the Gold Coast, in an effort to strictly remain a United Nation Trust Territory until such time that the people decide otherwise. Colonial Government/ Nkrumah Perhaps, on one of the few occasions, Kwame Nkrumah and the Colonial Authority were in the same boat. They fought the aims and objectives of the Ees in British Togoland, especially before the plebiscite which was to decide, finally, the unification or union between British Togoland and the Gold Coast at Independence. The British and the CPP put out an effective propaganda campaign. These encounters were sometimes violent. Unification or union? The results of the plebiscite showed a unanimous wish from the people of British Togoland to join Ghana at Independence. The Ee areas, however, voted not to join Ghana. The uncertainty was, and is still, whether the joining was to be a Unification or a Union. My little understanding of Unification is like the case of all other parts of Ghana at Independence under a unitary government. However, like the opponents of British Togoland joining Ghana at Independence gave, their envisaged Union was to be like that of England and Scotland. Togoland or Ee Unification? Throughout this discourse, Togoland Unification was rarely seen as an option. It would benefit, mainly, just one ethnic group, the Ees. Thus, most of the other ethnic groups in British Togoland would have lost out. The northerners, who hitherto had supported the Ee unification, refused to join the Ees in their fight for the re-creation of German Togo. While the re-creation of German Togo would unite the Ees, it would end up disuniting the northerners. Furthermore, the Ee Unification Movement, which sought to put the Ees under British administration and rescue Ees from the French administration, is exactly what I can see in British Togoland joining Ghana or, at least, a step in that direction. Albeit the settlement of Unification or Union enigma. What the Western Togoland proponents must know is that no country will stomach the re-drawing of its borders. The second option of uniting the Ees is also lost. Conclusion The German Colony called German Togo became British Togoland and the Republic of Togo. While the French ruled their share of German Togo like all colonies before granting them independence, the British on the other hand started the assimilation process of theirs into the Gold Coast right from the outset. The British achieved this amalgamation by dividing British Togoland into northern and southern parts and attaching them to two administrative regions of the Gold Coast. Many Historians criticised Britain over the handling of British Togoland affairs. From the splitting of German Togo to the division of British Togoland into its two parts, the majority ethnic group in the south, the Ees, got greatly disadvantaged. While the ethnic groups in the north rejoined their kith and kin mostly, the Ees in the south lost theirs to French Togo. The Ees called for the re-creation of the erstwhile German Togo to rejoin their fellow Ees. The clarion call was made through the Ee Unification Movement, which sought to unite all Ees under Britain and also liberate the Ees from French rule. Having lost the struggle to re-create German Togo and also come together under one authority, the Ees then turned their attention to Britain's efforts to join British Togoland to the Gold Coast at independence. The Ees wanted British Togoland to remain under the United Nations Trusteeship until such time that the people decide otherwise. The amalgamating of British Togoland with the Gold Coast at Independence was close to the aims and objectives of the Ee Unification Movement, in my opinion. The recreation of German Togo is a mission impossible since it will alienate almost all the northern British Togoland ethnic groups. The unification of the Ees, too, is looking like a pipe dream. No country would agree to redraw its national borders in this 21st century. The way forward is for Ees, wherever they find themselves, to conjure enough goodwill which will enable authorities to allow free inter-ethnic movements. LONG LIVE GHANA The writer is a Pilot formerly with the Ghana Air Force. Email: kkekrebesi @gmail.com 020 813 4583 2 Lynched over witchcraft accusations in Mion - Families demand justice Mohammed Fugu May - 31 - 2023 , 06:57 The families of two persons lynched in the Mion District over witchcraft accusations on May 9 have called for justice for the victims. The families have appealed to the police to thoroughly investigate the incident and bring the culprits to book. They described the death of the victims as a big blow and they believe ensuring swift justice delivery would give them some respite. On May 9, 2023, two persons were reportedly lynched at Zakpalsi, a farming community in the Mion District in the Northern Region, over witchcraft accusations. The deceased, Imoro Safura, 40, a mother of seven, and Mba Cherefo were reportedly lynched, after being accused of being behind the illness of a woman in the community after her family consulted a soothsayer. Irate youth in the community reportedly attacked Safura at her residence and sensing danger, she ran to seek refuge at the chiefs palace but was overpowered and lynched in the process, sources in the community hinted. They alleged that subsequently, the youth pursued Cherefo and killed him at his residence. Prosecution The Spokesperson of the families of the deceased, Adam Fuseini, said that even though the deceased would not be brought back to life, arresting and prosecuting the culprits, who were members of the community, would bring some relief to the families. Mr Fuseini made the call when the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Lariba Zuweira Abudu, visited the families last Friday to empathise with them, as part of her tour of the Northern Region. Joined by the Northern Regional Police Commander, DCOP Duuti Tuaruka, the minister visited the community to have first-hand information regarding the incident and to empathise with the families. Hajia Lariba assured the families of the victims that justice would be served and said the police had made significant progress in their investigation. She advised the residents against accusing individuals of witchcraft, urging them not to always attribute certain happenings to witchcraft but rather seek help from the appropriate quarters. Courtesy call As part of the tour, the minister paid a courtesy call on the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, to court his support in the fight against witchcraft accusations and attacks. She emphasised the need for the ministry and traditional leaders to effectively collaborate to promote safety, justice and social harmony within the community. For his part, Ya-Na pledged his unflinching support to the campaign to end the menace. Writer's email: [email protected] com.gh Ghanaian writer Prof Ama Ata Aidoo is dead Graphic.com.gh May - 31 - 2023 , 10:03 Ghanaian author, poet, playwright and academic, Professor Ama Ata Aidoo is dead at age 81. With a career spanning more than five decades, she died on Wednesday morning (May 31, 2023), her family has announced. The Family of Prof. Ama Ata Aidoo with deep sorrow but in the hope of the resurrection, informs the general public that our beloved relative and writer passed away in the early hours of this morning Wednesday 31st May 2023, after a short illness. Funeral arrangements would be announced in due course. The Family requests privacy at this difficult moment, the family head Kwamena Essandoh Aidoo announced in a short statement. Prof Ama Ata Aidoo received international recognition as one of the most prominent African writers of the 20th and 21st centuries. She was born on March 23, 1942 at Abeadzi Kyiakor near Saltpond in the Central Region of Ghana. She attended the Wesley Girls' High School and University of Ghana. The writer, whose work, written in English, emphasised the paradoxical position of the modern African woman. Prof Aidoo began to write seriously while an honours student at the University of Ghana in 1964). She won early recognition with a problem play, The Dilemma of a Ghost (1965), in which a Ghanaian student returning home brings his African American wife into the traditional culture and the extended family that he now finds restrictive. Their dilemma reflects Aidoos characteristic concern with the been-to (African educated abroad), voiced again in her semi autobiographical experimental first novel, Our Sister Killjoy; or, Reflections from a Black-Eyed Squint (1966). Prof Aidoo herself won a fellowship to Stanford University in California, returned to teach at Cape Coast, Ghana (197082), and subsequently accepted various visiting professorships in the United States and Kenya. Classic Childrens Books Quiz In No Sweetness Here (1970), a collection of short stories, Prof Aidoo exercised the oral element of storytelling, writing tales that are meant to be read aloud. These stories and Anowa (1970), another problem play, are concerned with Western influences on the role of women and on the individual in a communal society. Prof Aidoo rejected the argument that Western education emancipates African women. She further exposed exploitation of women who, as unacknowledged heads of households when war or unemployment leaves them husbandless, must support their children alone. In 198283 she served as Ghanas Minister of Education. Aidoo published little between 1970 and 1985, when Someone Talking to Sometime, a collection of poetry, appeared. Her later titles include The Eagle and the Chickens (1986; a collection of childrens stories), Birds and Other Poems (1987), the novel Changes: A Love Story (1991), An Angry Letter in January and Other Poems (1992), The Girl Who Can and Other Stories (1997), and Diplomatic Pounds and Other Stories (2012). VIDEO: Devastating fire engulfs structures at Madina-Ritz Junction in Accra Kweku Zurek May - 31 - 2023 , 06:28 Multiple structures were devastated by a fire that erupted at the Madina-Ritz Junction in Accra during the late hours of Tuesday evening. According to officials from the Ghana National Fire Service, the inferno commenced at approximately 11 pm. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown at present; however, firefighters from various locations within Accra were swiftly mobilized to combat the raging blaze. Power (electricity) was also turned off in the area to enable the firefighters combat the blaze. Officials from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) revealed that the incident transpired in close proximity to the Madina Fire Station and involved multiple wooden structures. This marks the second occurrence of a fire incident at the Madina-Ritz junction, with the previous incident transpiring on February 1, 2023. During that incident, 30 shops and numerous residences were adversely affected. Watch a video of firefighters battling the fire below; Dr. Afriyie Akoto to attend African Agriculture, Food and Industry Forum in Turkey Kweku Zurek May - 31 - 2023 , 11:45 A flagbearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party(NPP) and immediate past Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto is set to attend the African Agriculture, Food and Industry Forum in Istanbul & Tekirdag, in Turkey. Dr. Akoto departs Accra on Sunday, June 4, 2023. The Agriculture Economist who has worked in the United Nations for over 18 years will be the special guest of honour at the event where he is expected to address thousands of captains of Turkish Agribusiness industries on Tuesday, June 6, 2023. He is expected to return home on Wednesday, June 7, 2023. The event is organized by the African Investors Council(AIC). It will be held from Sunday, June 5, 2023 to Friday, June 10, 2023. According to the organisers, Dr. Afriyie Akoto's invitation to the event was spurred by his deep knowledge and vast experience in the field of Agriculture as an Economist, industry player and policy expert. The world business and cooperation forum gathers various sectors and institutions working for the development, modernization and technification of agriculture, textile, agribusiness and renewable energies, food and livestock farming, construction and infrastructure. The forum offers a platform for captains of agribusiness industries to meet and exchange ideas with Turkeys largest agricultural producers and investors. AICs mission is to bring together companies and entrepreneurs with the common goal of being a pioneer for the development of the African continent, in the fields of sustainable and innovative agriculture and food, within a cooperative of professionals from all over the world. A statement issued by the organizers said the Council's objective is to connect the various public and private actors in order to share their experiences, knowledge and investment opportunities for the continent. "Turkey and Africa have a long history of encounters, dialogue and peace for centuries. We hope that this Summit will further strengthen these ties and create economic opportunities for both sides," it added. 11 million SIM cards risk deactivation: crowds besiege NIA centres for Ghana Card Doreen Andoh & Kester Aburam Korankye May - 31 - 2023 , 07:49 About 11 million active Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards yet to be re-registered with the Ghana Card risk disconnection and deletion tomorrow as the deadline for the exercise expires today. Following this development, hundreds of people, majority of whom are trying to register their SIMs for the first time, have thronged some National Identification Authority (NIA) centres in a desperate attempt to secure their Ghana Card. The national card is the only prerequisite identification document admissible for the completion of the re-registration of SIM cards. When the Daily Graphic visited some of the NIA centres, including the Premium Centre of the authority at its head office at Shiashie, Accra and other premium centres in some regions, there were long queues of last-minute card acquirers dashing to complete the process. Many of the subscribers had come to link their Ghana Card with their SIM cards to satisfy the NCA requirement before the May 31 deadline. While the centre with the capacity to process 650 applications sees no crowds, the long queues at the place has compelled the NIA to erect canopies outside its halls to accommodate the increasing numbers. The Executive Secretary of NIA, Professor Ken Agyeman Attafuah, expressed regret that such a large number of people would rush to pay a premium fee of GH280 for a service they could have accessed for free a few weeks back. He said it was the attitude of some people to relax in obtaining the Ghana Card until the deadlines were near. Prof. Attafuah said based on its daily operational capacity, including that of its key partners, CAL Bank, coupled with limited cards at the moment, the NIA would not be able to issue all the people calling at its premium centres with cards. At the moment, given the reality and the debt owed the private partners, the public needing the service are finding recourse to the premium registration service not by laid down procedures, but by the zest and urgency of their needs and we are trying to cope with this, he explained. The NIA Executive Secretary said the authority had a daily capacity of about 650 at its head office and a little less of that at other premium centres, making it impossible to issue the thousands of people applying for the cards before the SIM card re-registration deadline yesterday. He explained, however, that since the deadline was due, the NIA had to mobilise additional hands to serve all the applicants at its head office premium centre yesterday. Prof. Attefuah said apart from NIA offices where the Ghana Card services could be accessed for free, additional registration points were established with the approach of the SIM card re-registration deadlines to ease the pressure. As a responsive state institution, we take no delight in seeing Ghanaians going through the anguish of queuing. So we made these opportunities and facilities available in anticipation that people would take advantage for free, Prof. Attafuah said. However, he said it had become the phenomenon that any time the deadline was extended, people became lackadaisical making most of the centres ghost towns. We see a phenomenon where anytime the deadline for the SIM card re-registration was extended, the additional re-registration points plus the traditional NIA offices become ghost towns and whenever the deadline is approaching then we have a situation of an avalanche of demands and in some cases people stampeding even though this is at a cost, he pointed out. Premium service Prof. Attafuah said although the premium service required booking the NIA, looking at the high demand due to the deadline, had opened its doors to the hundreds of people to help them beat the deadline even though they had not booked appointments. He said the NIA had brought in canopies and chairs to accommodate the extra load of numbers and give them some comfort. It is a regrettable situation but it is the reality and we have to deal with it. It is unfortunate that so many people have to be in the sun and queue for so long for a paid for service that had been traditionally and customarily available to the public at no cost, Prof. Attafuah said. Extension The Public Relations Manager of AirtelTigo, Felicia Thornhill, told the Daily Graphic that a lot more subscribers of AritelTigo visited its premises to begin the re-registration exercise yesterday, unlike the previous weeks and months preceding the May 31 deadline. She said to help get all subscribers registered to avoid deactivation which would not benefit the business, the company had deployed most of its staff to the field to assist subscribers in the re-registration exercise. Each staff has also been tasked to reach about 10 subscribers yet to complete the registration to remind them of the exercise and assist them to complete it. It will affect our business and so an extension would be appreciated as we have more customers who are yet to complete the registration exercise, Ms Thornhill said. Context At the inception of the SIM re-registration exercise on October 1, 2021, there were about 42 million active SIM cards in the country. They were made up of SIM cards registered with identity cards (IDs) such as the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) cards, passports, driving licence, among others. The National Communications Authority at whose behest the re-registration started, said a lot of the IDs were not verified at the time they were used to register the SIMs. After the first phase of the exercise, there were about 36 million active SIM cards in circulation as of last month, out of which 25 million (69.6 per cent) have been duly reregistered. This means that over 25.4 million SIM cards had completed both stages one and two of the SIM re-registration which was done with verified Ghana Cards. The remaining 11 million, representing 30. 4 per cent, include active SIM cards exempted based on various demographics and active SIM cards that have not been registered with the Ghana Card using the current process. Already the NCA has deactivated about 6.1 million SIM cards which belonged to subscribers that had completed only stage one of the current registration process. Tomorrow's deadline for SIM cards re-registration follows a similar announcement of mass disconnection of unregistered SIM cards before April 17, 2023. At the time, about 33.8 million, representing 79. 60 per cent had completed only the first phase of linking their Ghana Cards with the SIM cards, while 8.65 million subscribers, representing 20.40 per cent, had not linked their Ghana cards to their SIM cards. The NCA, therefore, extended the deadline to rope in all subscribers. Charlotte Van den Broeck at LitHub: When I saw a picture of the Church of San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane in Rome, I knew almost for certain that the brazen and sensuous facade, its concave and convex undulations, must have been designed by a restless spirit. A simple Google search confirmed my suspicion. The architect, baroque master Francesco Borromini, is thought to have suffered from a manic-depressive disorder. Combined with his obvious perfectionism, this must have been the generative force behind his large oeuvre of superhuman designs. But the creative ferment of his genius had a dark side: he went through pitch-black periods of utter dejection. In a sense, Borrominis entire career was dominated by that church, San Carlo, whose small footprint has given it the nickname San Carlino. Along with the adjacent monastery and sleeping quarters, it was Borrominis first solo architectural commissionthough anything but a routine job. more here. International Monetary Fund deal: IEA advocates creation of economic buffers Maclean Kwofi May - 31 - 2023 , 08:24 The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) Ghana has recommended to the government to start building strong economic and financial buffers to support the economy to withstand future external shocks and emergencies. It said a strong economic buffer should entail a sizable fiscal space, cushion for reserves, sinking fund for debt repayments, contingency fund and a robust financial sector to support economic development, adding that it should be part of the countrys home-grown policies which would run parallel to the prescriptions from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). At a press conference in Accra last Monday, the Director of Research at the IEA, Dr John Kwakye, said the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war had exposed the countrys existing vulnerabilities, taking it back to the IMF. We need to learn lessons from this experience. Most importantly even beyond the IMF programme requirements. We must begin to build strong economic and financial buffers, including a sizable fiscal space, a cushion of reserves, a sinking fund to support debt repayments, a contingency fund to cater for economic shocks and emergencies, and a robust financial sector, he added. Temporary relief According to Dr Kwakye, the IMF programme, like the previous deals can only bring the country temporary relief in terms of macroeconomic and financial stability and a boost in market confidence and policy credibility. He said the programme was geared towards achieving targets and fulfilling goals that it determined appropriate in dealing with the countrys economic crisis rather than harnessing the nations full potential. Dr Kwakye said the country required quantum jumps in its development and not what he described as little incremental changes embodied in IMF programmes. According to him, the country needed to build and entrench its own policy credibility without an IMF anchor, adding that the long-term economic progress and survival of the nation depended on leveraging its abundant domestic resources to support home-grown, inclusive and cross-cutting policies anchored by financial discipline and a transformational strategy. In line with that, Dr Kwakye said it would be helpful to have a development plan that spelt out broad national priorities and strategies to achieve those objectives. No longer should we have party manifestos often characterised by experimentation and wayward policies that cater for individual and party interests rather than the national interest. The bottom line is that the country should take its development destiny into its own hands. That is the only way to make this 17 IMF programme the end of all programmes, he added. Programme The research director further said that the IMF programme placed the countrys economic managers in a straitjacket with very little room for policy discretion or manoeuvre. Describing it as an auto-pilot-like programme, he said it limited the opportunity to intervene in the economy to respond to changing dynamics. The programme is subject to considerable risks. The baseline projections in the programme are predicated on benign geopolitical environment and swift progress in implementing the comprehensive debt restructuring and plans to address the large stock of domestic arrears, Dr Kwakye said. Ghana records high prevalence of hepatitis B Augustina Tawiah May - 31 - 2023 , 08:16 The country has a high hepatitis B prevalence of over eight per cent, the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme Manager, Dr Atsu Seake-Kwawu, has said. This indicates that the country is hyper-endemic for hepatitis B which is predominantly driven by mother-to-child transmission and not only through sexual intercourse, he said. "This points to intergenerational transmission within our country which we must address to have an impact on the prevalence of the disease. The moment the country starts addressing this, our prevalence will come down, he said, adding that worldwide, eight per cent is used to determine the hyper-endemicity of a country. Dr Seake-Kwawu was speaking at the third national hepatitis summit in Accra yesterday. It was organised by Hepatitis Alliance of Ghana, an NGO. The two-day event which is on the topic: Making elimination of viral hepatitis a reality in Ghana, is being attended by healthcare professionals, researchers, academics and civil society organisations who will discuss potential strategies to achieve the global hepatitis target. Testing Dr Seake-Kwawu, who spoke on the countrys response to the burden of hepatitis: lessons from a Stop Hepatitis C Ghana treatment project, said the importance of testing was key in the fight against the disease. He, therefore, encouraged all, particularly pregnant women to get tested for the disease for early treatment to prevent those with a high viral load from sharing it with their unborn babies. As far as hepatitis B is concerned, it is only testing that will tell you if you have it from childhood. We have to scale up testing as a country to be able to identify the majority of people who are infected to put them on treatment, the programme manager added. Viral hepatitis Hepatitis B is among the viral hepatitis in the country. The others are hepatitis A, C, D and E. He, however, said that hepatitis A and E were related to water, sanitation and food and that although they caused acute illnesses, they were not chronic. Dr Seake-Kwawu added that hepatitis A and E could cause outbreaks that would require control, while hepatitis B and C infection led to chronic complications. For hepatitis D, he said, it did not exist independently and needed hepatitis B to be present. Dr Seake-Kwawu said that although they all affected the liver and showed similar presentations, they were addressed differently. He said while there were vaccines available for hepatitis A and B, there was no vaccine for hepatitis C and E, except in China. Dr Seake-Kwawu further mentioned some of the milestone responses to contain the spread of the disease in the country to include STOP HepC Ghana Project , a nationwide hepatitis C patient recruitment and the fact that Egypt had agreed to support Ghana with 150,000 courses of DAA. Objective The Operations Manager of Hepatitis Alliance of Ghana, Prosper Senyo Sokpe, said the summit was aimed at helping healthcare providers to gain new knowledge on how to treat people with viral hepatitis and also educate them on how to prevent the disease. Stakeholders discuss ways to minimise Avian Influenza risk in sub-region Juliet Akyaa Safo & Diana Mensah May - 31 - 2023 , 08:09 Stakeholders in the food and agricultural sector in the ECOWAS region have converged on Accra to discuss ways to minimise the risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) occurrence and spread in the region. Participants in the four-day meeting will discuss ways to update the HPAI control strategy at the regional and national levels. Other strategies include assisting countries to develop national biosecurity action plans, strengthening capacity of ECOWAS member states and the Regional Animal Health Centre (RAHC) on incident management. HPAI The highly contagious disease subtype H5N1, which mostly affects poultry, was first confirmed in commercial poultry flocks in Nigeria in February, 2006. Within six months, the virus had spread across the region with outbreaks confirmed in eight countries. By the end of 2007, some countries had effectively controlled the infection and, therefore, there was no new reported cases of avian influenza outbreak in the region in 2008. However, after seven years, the infection re-emerged in 2015 due to the H5N1 in domestic poultry and H5N8 subtypes in migratory birds in Nigeria. The catalogue of events since the first incursion in 2006 revealed a recurrence of the infection, necessitating the consultative meeting which began in Accra yesterday. The workshop was organised by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), in collaboration with the ECOWAS Commission and supported by USAID. Re-emergence The West and Central Africa Regional Manager of the Emergency Central for Transboundary Animal Disease of the FAO, Abebe Wolde, said cases of avian influenza H9N2 subtype reported in 2018 had not been effectively controlled as outbreaks were reported from Ghana, Benin, Cote d'Ivoire and Senegal. He said in 2021, outbreaks were also confirmed in Burkina Faso, Niger, Cote d'Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin and Mali, resulting in the mortality and destruction of huge numbers of poultry. The current wave of infection spreading rapidly was as a result of poor implementation of on-farm biosecurity measures, weak national animal health delivery systems compounded by poor public sensitisation, inefficient disease detection and control at the borders, lack of government support and timely compensation, Mr Wolde added. He also mentioned reluctance of poultry farmers to report suspected cases on time and the uncontrolled and secret vaccinations of poultry as some of the causes. Mr Wolde, therefore, called for a concerted effort to ensure the control of HPAI in the region to safeguard public health, improve poultry production and protect livelihoods. Compensation In a speech read on behalf of the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Brian Acheampong, the Chairman of the Veterinary Council of Ghana, Dr Jonathan Amakye-Anim, said the country recorded its first HPAI outbreak in 2007 and 2015, with 148,000 birds being destroyed as part of containment measures by the Veterinary Services Directorate (VSD). He said there was also loss of livelihoods which resulted in the government paying a total of GH16 million in compensation to 114 farms affected by the HPAI in 2021. The chairman added that an emergency fund was created in 2015 for the procurement of needed resources to help reduce the exposure of the poultry industry to disease outbreaks. The minister mentioned common risk factors associated with the outbreaks of HPAI in the country as wetlands, forest reserves and water bodies. The WHO representative to Ghana, Francis Kasolo, in a speech read on his behalf, underscored the need to strengthen coordination of preparedness and response actions of HPAI, including fostering good emergency management practices and collaborative surveillance of influenza viruses and market sectors. For his part, the FAO Representative to Ghana, Bachir Souley Kouato, described the workshop as timely, and expressed the FAOs commitment to support member countries to minimise the spread and impact of HPAI and other transboundary diseases. Illegal miners trapped in AngloGold shaft Kwadwo Baffoe Donkor May - 31 - 2023 , 04:56 Some illegal miners have been trapped underground in one of the shafts of AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) mine in Obuasi in the Ashanti Region. The miners who used unapproved means to enter the shaft, were trapped when the company sealed the entries created by the intruders, leaving only the main exit point open. However, despite their predicament, the intruders have refused to use the main exit for fear of being arrested and handed over to security agencies. So far, 41 of the victims who opted to use the main exit for safety have been arrested and handed over to the police. Seven of them came out last Monday, while the others made their exit yesterday. They were said to have entered the mine last Monday and when AGA picked up intelligence to that effect, it allegedly sealed all entry points, including the illegal ones. Earlier arrest The Executive Director of the Centre for Social Impact Studies (CeSIS), a CSO, Robert Tanti Ali, told the Daily Graphic that earlier this year, some illegal miners who invaded the concession of the company were arrested and handed over to a joint military and police team. He said the treatment meted out to them was what was perhaps scaring the trapped miners from coming out as they feared the same ordeal awaited them. According to him, the illegal miners had been intruding on the concession of AngloGold Ashanti leading to the creation of tension between the company and residents in the area whenever they were arrested. Dr Ali urged the security to intensify their search operations to rescue the trapped miners, saying on principle of human rights, we call on the state to take interest in the current situation. Statement The mining firm has, however, denied that there were illegal miners confined under its shaft. A statement issued and signed by the Managing Director of the AGA, Eric Asubonteng, said all unauthorised persons underground could exit on foot via the existing ramp through the main access of the mining area. According to the statement, no person underground has been confined in any way and the main exit ramp from the mine remains open. Obuasi Gold Mines management team has notified the relevant authorities and public security services and is working closely with them, it said. The statement which was released yesterday further said that on Monday, May 29, 2023, seven illegal miners exited through the main access point on foot and were handed over to the Ghana Police Service. Any unauthorised person underground is encouraged to leave the mine at any time by the exit points where public security personnel remain on standby, it added. Danger The statement further said that intrusion of illegal miners into underground areas remained a significantly dangerous activity and AngloGold Ashanti Ghana is working alongside authorities to ensure that only authorised mine personnel and contractors can access underground work areas. The safety and security of our employees and community members remain our top priority and AngloGold Ashanti Ghana stands ready to provide any assistance required by the authorities in ensuring the safe exit of any unauthorised persons underground, it assured. Lets build borderless Africa through technology - Zeepay CEO proposes Kester Aburam Korankye May - 31 - 2023 , 06:33 A young Ghanaian entrepreneur, Andrew Takyi-Appiah, has proposed the intensified use of technology to facilitate trade and develop the continent. He stated that the next step for Africa was the realisation of the true Pan-African dream through a borderless future that resonated with the once borderless past. Our continent was interrupted, arrested in development, but the power to move, trade and develop is now in our own hands, Mr Takyi-Appiah, who is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Zeepay, told the Daily Graphic. He further stated that while the continent still struggled with poverty, the future development of Africa hinged on the ability to adopt the technology that was at peoples fingertips, stressing, it allows the world to come to us long before we have the ability or resources to come to it. The technology entrepreneur pointed out that expansion of mobile payments throughout Africa had done just that and also created a whole generation of burgeoning young entrepreneurs who were ready and eager for the next step for their small businesses. Layingout the context on why Africa must leapfrog technology to push the frontiers of trade and development, Mr Takyi-Appiah asserted that although he was a businessman, he equally had a goal loftier than profits. I want to expand trans-African trade and make entrepreneurship an engine in the economic development of our continent, the entrepreneur, who for the past nine years had built Zeepay and expanded it into 33 markets, including 25 in Africa, the entrepreneur who is under 50 years said. Context As of this year, there are about 600 million mobile money accounts registered around the world, with transactions valued at $600 billion. The numbers translate into tremendous business opportunities, with a multiplying effect beyond money, which includes a basis for huge societal transformation. There are massive amounts of transnational trade taking place across Africa, most of it through small to medium businesses, made possible by technological payment solutions. According to a 2023 report from the World Economic Forum, the three largest hurdles facing small business owners in sub-Saharan Africa today were difficulty raising funds, lack of staff with sufficient digital skills and a tough regulatory climate. Premised on that report, Mr Takyi-Appiah stated that given the massive potential being stifled through those challenges, addressing them needed to be top priority, both as a nation and continent. The real challenge now is how to harvest and capitalise on that, how to turn Africa into the innovation and startup hub it should and could be, he argued. Hope, not despair He regretted that the conversation surrounding the nations youth had been marred with negativity, focusing on the burden they represented rather than the saving grace they would turn out to be for present and future generations. Never before have we had this young a population, and never before have they been as connected to the outside world, allowing them to build and earn, despite the limitations their immediate surroundings may be putting on them, Mr Takyi-Appiah posited. Without belittling the hardship many Ghanaians were living through, the Zeepay founder stressed the need to view technology as a shortcut to the middle-class, as well as an eradicator of a class system, since it levelled the playing field in which only few political reforms could achieve on that massive scale and timeline. If we have learned anything in these past few decades it is that government and establishment can never, through legislation and committee, duplicate the type of ingenuity that the youthful mind concocts, Mr Takyi-Appiah averred. He said the best gift the current generation could give its youth was to stay out of their way and allow them to show what was possible, to not tax and bureaucratise their dreams to death but rather lift them up and offer guidance and support. The founder of Zeepay said lowering taxes and levies on small and medium-size businesses would incentivise them to enter the official market and provide active financial aid to youth entrepreneurs, helping them to stay there. Mr Takyi-Appiah also emphasised that the trans-national cooperation between financial technology firms (fintechs), as well as government financial institutions, was also crucial in order to create youth entrepreneurs. He added that lowering thresholds for transferring funds across borders would create the long sought-after trade incentives, but with much more ease than previous generations could ever have imagined. Mentorship Finally, the Zeepay CEO said mentorship should be taken seriously and therefore urged those who had built and succeeded in the fintech space to participate actively in the creation of a knowledge and skills base which could be drawn upon and used by those who would come after them. It is no longer about making it big and cashing out, but about building it broad and leaning in, he stated. Mr Takyi-Appiah urged all entrepreneurs whom he described as makers, inventors and builders to roll up their sleeves and do what they did best create solutions and force the world to move forward when everyone else says it cant be done. Background Mr Takyi-Appiah, who previously worked with defunct UT Bank Ghana, PwC Ghana, PwC UK, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, and GTBank, co-founded Zeepay in 2016. With an annual turnover of about $900 million, Zeepay has established itself as the largest cross-border remittance aggregator in Africa. Mavis Addo wins 7th Webb of Excellence Award Emmanuel Amoako May - 31 - 2023 , 10:28 For the seventh consecutive year, the Webb of Excellence Scholarship Fund, set up exclusively to better the lot of female students of Ada Senior High School, has honoured its promise in grand style. Mavis Naa Adoley Addo, who emerged the best female student of Ada Senior High School in the 2022 West Africa Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), is the proud winner of the 2022-2023 award, and she was presented with a cheque for Gh4,000 at a simple but colourful ceremony organised at the SSNIT Guest House last Saturday (May 27, 2023). Presentation Presenting the award, Dr Gabriel Ofoe Canacoo, the chairman of the Board of Trustees of the scheme, explained that the package covered Miss Addos Academic User Fee and Residential Fee at the University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, where she had been offered admission to study Business Administration. Dr Canacoo added that in subsequent years at the university, the Fund would support Miss Addo financially with some graduated sum of money provided she obtained a B Average Grading or higher at the end of every year in the course she was pursuing. He advised the award winner not to get carried away by university life but to get glued to her studies always remembering that you are there to carve a niche for yourself, your family and your nation. Dr Canacoo disclosed that previous winners of the award were all doing well in their various fields of study, adding that the very first recipients of the Tertiary Support Award were on course to receive First Class Honours or 2nd Class Upper, at worse, when they graduate at the University of Ghana this year. Acceptance In her acceptance speech, Miss Addo paid glowing tribute to the teachers of Ada Senior High School for not only preparing her adequately for the 2022 WASSCE, but also imparting knowledge to her from the very moment she stepped foot in the school until her departure just last year. I am totally flabbergasted; I am amazed at how things have quickly changed in my life after three short years at Ada Senior High School. And the big lesson I have learnt from all of this is that in the ladder of life, it does not matter where you find yourself at one time or the other; what really matters, to my mind, is you making good use of the opportunities that are available, she added. Miss Addo also expressed her deep gratitude to the Founder of the Award, Ms Eleanor Louise Webb, a Canadian volunteer who taught at the school between 1968 and 1970. Indeed, when I ponder over the humble beginnings of this award - the fact that Miss Webb, without any hesitation whatsoever, decided to invest some 3,000 Canadian Dollars bequeathed to her by her late Auntie into a Scholarship Scheme for Brilliant Female Students of the Ada Senior High School - Im not only deeply touched by the wonderful gesture but I strongly believe that such a rare Christ-like example of love, kindness and grace can only come from the bosom of a virtuous woman, she declared. In a chat with the award winner via WhatsApp video, shortly after she was presented with her prize, the Founder, Ms Eleanor Webb, urged Miss Addo to uphold the confidence reposed in her by making giant strides in her chosen field of study. Dont let anything distract you from your studies. Burn the midnight oil as much as you and the world will be at your beck and call when you distinguish yourself. It won't be easy, but when all is said and done, youll be glad you did, Miss Webb added. On behalf of the school, Mathew Honu, the Assistant Headmaster (Academic) of Ada Senior High, congratulated Miss Addo on excelling in the WASSCE but reminded her that the task ahead was even more arduous and added that with determination and commitment, nothing will thwart your efforts. He also thanked Miss Webb for instituting the award and urged other past tutors of the school as well as well-wishers to emulate her example. Ghana targets 2m tourists, $4bn in 2 years President Akufo-Addo Donald Ato Dapatem May - 31 - 2023 , 07:25 As part of measures to make tourism play its leading role in the economic progress of the country, Ghana is working towards attracting two million international arrivals that will culminate in a $4 billion spending impact by 2025, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has stated. He said as part of the measures put in place, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture had been charged with ramping up its promotional activities, policies and programmes to achieve the target. President Akufo-Addo announced this yesterday at the first-ever Presidential Summit on Tourism at the Peduase Presidential Lodge in the Eastern Region. Summit The two-day summit being organised at the instance of the President attracted participants from all government agencies and departments, as well as private sector stakeholders in the industry to the brainstorming session. It is on the theme: Rethinking Tourism for Economic Growth and Job Creation. In what is described as rare among presidential correspondents from various media houses, President Akufo-Addo after the opening ceremony and all the activities, sat in for the presentation of papers, panel discussions and the questions and answers. Globally, is estimated that by 2033 every 10 jobs will be created by the tourism sector. Data Referring to data, President Akufo-Addo indicated that the tourism sector was growing once again following the lull caused by COVID-19. Stats He noted that international arrivals saw an 81 per cent growth in 2022 as against the 2021 figures, while domestic tourism also grew from 600,000 in 2021 to almost a million in 2022 and that underpinning these numbers were people who were employed, farmers providing food, caterers and chefs, tour operators, drivers and handicraft producers, musicians and artists, among others. President Akufo-Addo noted that the government was placing tourism at the forefront of national development and was, thus, tasking the Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture and the Ghana Tourism Authority to continue to lead the charge. We are building a thriving tourism economy, with many tourism sites currently undergoing improvements. We are determined to build a tourism economy where hospitality, arts and culture are used as tools to spur economic development, he added. Proposals President Akufo-Addo proposed that the summit should focus on a four-fold approach ranging from reservation promotion to policy leadership and partnership. He explained that the country must preserve what it had, adding that we are the guardians of Ghana's natural wonders and it is our responsibility to safeguard them for future generations and strengthen our commitment to environmental conservation, combat climate change and promote eco-friendly practices in the tourism industry. That, he explained, would preserve the natural heritage and attract eco-conscious travellers who sought destinations that were aligned with their values and who were growing in substantial numbers across the world. President Akufo-Addo called for the amplification of Ghana's unique appeal on the global stage through strategic marketing campaigns, enhanced digital presence and targeted investments in infrastructure to showcase the diversity the country offered. Regarding policy leadership, he suggested that the public sector must lead in creating the right climate and platform for investments to grow and that it was for this reason the government was prioritising the e-Visa regime, the Homeland Return Act and the visa on arrival processes. He explained that in the last few years, the government had enacted legislation for tourism sites and attraction through the Ghana Tourism Authority and would enact further legislations and make regulations that would help develop the sector. Partnership President Akufo-Addo stated that the tourism sector required partnerships and a collaborative approach involving all stakeholders and called for a united effort, shared knowledge, and pooled resources. Let us create a comprehensive framework that facilitates dialogue, cooperation and innovation. Together we can develop sustainable tourism models, empower domestic entrepreneurs and ensure that the benefits of tourism reach every corner of our beloved country, he added. Minister The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dr Ibrahim Mohammed Awal, noted that the investment in the arts, culture and tourism sector was yielding positive results because tourist arrival numbers grew by 47 per cent in the first quarter of this year from 170,000 in the previous quarter to 247,000 arrivals. He suggested that if each tourist spent $3,000 it would have a positive impact on the economy. Mr President, our Destination Ghana Project is on course and I want to assure all the stakeholders that we are not resting. We want you to give us your support. Partner us and make Ghana the choice for tourism, Dr Awal added. Operationalise the National Research Fund Act - Prof. Yirenkyi Danquah to govt Zadok Kwame Gyesi May - 31 - 2023 , 06:53 The Founder of the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), University of Ghana, Professor Eric Yirenkyi Danquah, has appealed to the government to as a matter of urgency operationalise the National Research Fund Act. He expressed the concern that even though the National Research Fund Act has been assented by President Akufo-Addo, it has not be operationalised to benefit the countrys agriculture. He explained that the operationalisation of the National Research Fund Act would help contribute to efforts in meeting Sustainable Development Goal 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger. Prof. Danquah made the appeal when he addressed guests at the Sustainable Dinners: World Hunger Day Dinner in Accra last Sunday, May 28, 2023. Sustainable Dinners: World Hunger Day Dinner The "Sustainable Dinners: World Hunger Day Dinner" were held simultaneously in some selected Global South countries to serve as platforms for launching a campaign to establish a commemoration day for farmers who apply innovative agricultural biotechnologies to accelerate the elimination of hunger by 2030. Similar dinners were held on the same day in Nairobi, Kenya, Abuja, Nigeria, Lusaka, Zambia, Cairo, Egypt, Dhaka, Bangladesh and Guatemala. The event was also used to honour some farmers and key players in the agricultural value chain, including seed breeders for their various contributions towards ending hunger in the country and the world as a whole. Implementation of National Research Fund Act Prof. Danquah expressed the hope that the implementation of the National Research Fund Act would serve a key catalyst in promoting technologies and innovations to drive self-reliance agriculture in the country. For him, the National Research Fund Act would facilitate impact-driven research to build resilient and robust food systems to meet SDG 2 by 2030 under, a Presidential Initiative on Food and Nutrition Security to be coordinated from the Office of the President with the Ministries of Education, Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation and Finance as the main coordinating units. In addition, he observed, If only we would do this well with the evidence available, we would sustainably take this country forward in the next four years and we would be on track toward meeting SDG 2 with far reaching positive ramifications on about nine other SDGs. Prof. Danquah said it was within the possibility of science and technology to make agriculture more productive and sustainable, hence the need to prioritise agricultural research. Together, we possess the ability to make a difference. Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, we hold the power to eradicate hunger and establish a world where everyone has access to nutritious food. It is an arduous task, but one we must confront head-on, he explained. He urged all relevant stakeholders to play their part in the battle against hunger, saying Let us pledge to raise awareness, support initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture, empower communities, and advocate for policies that prioritize food security. Celebrate farmers The Executive Director, Alliance for Science, Dr Sheila Ochugboju, in her remarks commended farmers for their instrumental role in providing food to feed the world. She said farmers everywhere deserved to be praised for their commitment and dedication to feed the worlds growing populations. Farmers should be praised and prayed for, she noted, commending Ghana for already celebrating its farmers in the annual National Farmers Day. Dr. Ochugboju expressed the hope that with commitment and political will, it was possible to end hunger in the country and across the world, pointing out that hunger threatens everyone and that many people were food insecure in the world. Adopt technology The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, Mr. Yaw Frimpong Addo, said considering the fertile nature of the countrys lands, there was no need for anyone to go hungry in the country. He said with the use of technology and innovations, the country would be food secure, explaining that many farmers in rural areas of the country were food insecure because they were not applying technology and innovation in their work. Mr. Addo said science and technology were needed to turn around the countrys agriculture, saying We need scientists to improve our agriculture. Police Inspector accused of killing girlfriend officially charged with murder GraphicOnline May - 31 - 2023 , 13:33 The Asokore Mampong District Court in the Ashanti Region has, once again, decided to keep a police inspector in custody on charges of allegedly causing the death of his girlfriend, Victoria Dapaah. Victoria Dapaah, also known as Maa Adwoa, a 26-year-old woman, was reportedly killed by her boyfriend, Inspector Ahmed Twumasi, on April 20, 2023, near her residence in Adum. During the initial court appearance, the accused admitted to the act but maintained that he did not intend to harm his partner. In the subsequent court hearing, the suspect has been officially charged with murder following the advice provided by the Office of the Attorney General. ACP Kofi Blagodzi, the head of legal and prosecutions in the Ashanti Region, assured the deceased's family members present during the court proceedings today that the police administration is fully committed to ensuring justice is served. With the advice received from the Office of the Attorney General, the committal processes will begin in the next hearing. After the court proceedings, ACP Kofi Blagodzi addressed the media, expressing the difficulty of the situation, emphasising the police's sincere interest in the case and their determination to deliver justice. He added that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) was dedicated to resolving this matter, and the police force was equally committed. ACP Kofi assured everyone that the case will be pursued to its conclusion. Students of Suhum Senior High Technical School urged to take interest in tree planting Haruna Yussif Wunpini May - 31 - 2023 , 07:14 The Headmistress of the Suhum Senior High Technical School (SUTESCO) in the Eastern Region, Elizabeth Ama Agyakwa, has asked students of the school to take the centre stage in tree planting. That, she said, could only be done by educating their parents at home about the need to plant and nurture tree seedlings to preserve the ecology. Mrs Agyakwa made the call at a tree planting exercise within the school's premises last Friday, May 26, 2023. The exercise which was organised and funded by ASA Savings and Loans Company Limited in collaboration with the Eastern Regional Office of the Forestry Commission led to the planting of over 200 tree seedlings of different species by the students in the school. The tree species included acasia, mahogany, nim, royal palm and rain trees. The event formed part of a nationwide tree planting exercise being undertaken by the company to plant over 2,000 tree seedlings every year. According to the headmistress, it had become necessary to involve students in tree planting not only to safeguard the environment but also to serve as wind-breaks to protect school buildings especially the roofing from falling during rainstorms. Mrs Agyakwa said hitherto the exercise, the students had been taught on tree planting theoretically and that the exercise had come to complement what they had learnt. "Our forefathers lived longer because the trees were there but now that we are cutting them down unnecessarily, people are now dying early because if the last tree dies then we are all perishing", Mrs Agyakwa indicated. She therefore lauded the company for choosing the school to plant tree seedlings to provide shades for the students. The Koforidua Area Manager of ASA Savings and Loans, David Amevor said the main purpose of carrying out the tree planting exercise in the school was to help provide shade for them and also beautify the schools environment. He said already they had covered the Koforidua Prisons and Suhum Senior High Technical School and would be engaging in similar exercises in other regions of the country. Mr Amevor said tree planting exercise formed part of the companys corporate social responsibility to support the government's Green Ghana Project. An official from the Eastern Regional Office of the Forestry Commission, Alex Adonteng advised the school's management to ensure that the tree seedlings planted were nurtured, adding that the Commission would follow up to ensure that the trees were better taken care of. Tiktok pastor 'Godpapa The Greatest' and wife 'Empress Lupita' remanded Benjamin Xornam Glover May - 31 - 2023 , 14:07 The Ghanaian sensational TikTok couple, Daniel Chayah alias Godpapa The Greatest, and his wife Jocelyn Chayah alias Empress Lupita, have been remanded into police custody by the TDC Magistrate Court over the death of their two children. They are to reappear on June 15, 2023. They are said to have killed two of their three children. The police picked up the couple a few days ago and arraigned them at the TDC Magistrate Court on Wednesday [May 31, 2023]. Graphic Online's Benjamin Xornam Glover, who was at the court premises reports that the court warrant officers denied the media access to the court room. The police prosecutor also refused to speak to the media after the proceedings. Tiktok sensation The couple, suspected to be mentally ill and needing medical assistance are suspected to have killed two of their three children and buried them. The third boy, the youngest, reportedly fled the home. He has narrated some of his experiences in his parents care before he left home. The couple recently became a sensation on social media - TikTok - with the names Godpapa The Greatest and Empress Lupita. Conduct by-election for vacant Assin North constituency seat - Clerk to Parliament notifies EC Nana Konadu Agyeman Politics May - 31 - 2023 , 06:42 Parliament has written to the Electoral Commission (EC) to notify it of the vacancy in the Assin North constituency. THE Clerk to Parliament, Cyril Kwabena Nsiah, signed the letter dated May 29, 2023, which was addressed to the Chairperson of the EC, Jean Mensa. The notification, he said, had been necessitated by the judgement of the Supreme Court (SC) dated May 17, 2023. He, therefore, requested the EC Chairperson to take the appropriate consequential action as required by law. In the exercise of the power conferred and the duty imposed on the Clerk to Parliament by section 3 of the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (Amendment) Act, 1996 (Act 527), I, Cyril Kwabena Oteng Nsiah, do hereby formally notify you of the occurrence of a vacancy in the Assin North constituency necessitated by the judgement of the Supreme Court, the letter stated. Section 3 of Act 527 stipulates that whenever a vacancy occurs in Parliament, the Clerk of Parliament shall notify the Electoral Commission in writing within seven days after becoming aware that the vacancy has occurred; and a by-election shall be held within 30 days after the vacancy occurred except that where the vacancy occurred through the death of member, the by-election shall be held within 60 sixty days after the occurrence of the vacancy. SCs judgement In its judgement in the case of Michael Ankomah Nimfah vs James Gyakye Quayson, the Electoral Commission (EC) and the Attorney-General on May 17, 2023, the apex court ordered Parliament to expunge the name of the National Democratic Congress Member of Parliament, James Gyakye Quayson, as a sitting MP. The court held that the whole process leading to the election of Mr Quayson filing of nomination forms, election itself and swearing-in--were all in violation of Article 94(2)(a) of the 1992 Constitution, which bars a person with dual citizenship from contesting as an MP. It was the considered view of the court that as of the time Mr Quayson filed his nomination forms in October 2020 to contest the Assin North seat, he had not renounced his Canadian citizenship and, therefore, was not qualified per Article 94(2)(a) of the Constitution. In view of that the court further held that the EC also violated Article 94(2)(a) of the Constitution when it permitted Mr Quayson to contest the election. Upon the true and proper interpretation of Article 94(2)(a) the decision of second defendant [Electoral Commission] to permit the first defendant [James Gyakye Quayson] to contest the parliamentary election of Assin North when the first defendant had not shown evidence of the cancellation of his citizenship of Canada is an act which is inconsistent with and violates Article 94(2)(a) of the 1992 Constitution, the court held. Consequently, the court declared that the election of Mr Quayson as well as his swearing-in as an MP was unconstitutional, null, void and of no legal effect. During the vetting of the Chief Justice Nominee, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, on May 26, 2023, the Minority Leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, hinted at a letter he received from the Attorney-General (AG), Godfred Yeboah Dame, ????requesting the Speaker of Parliament.???? Per the letter, he said, the A-G requested the Speaker to declare the Assin North seat vacant in light of the recent Supreme Court judgement. He said the A-G cited the apex court as ordering Parliament to expunge James Gyakye Quaysons name from its records after it found that he failed to renounce his Canadian citizenship at the time of filing his nomination forms to contest the polls. The vacancy, he said, would require a by-election. Ground work Even before the declaration of the Assin North seat as being vacant, the Daily Graphic understands that the representatives of the two major political partiesthe New Patriotic Party and the NDCare currently on the ground in the constituency working to woo voters for their parliamentary candidates. Besides, officials of the Ministry of Roads and Highways are also currently present in the area conducting a survey on possible roads that need to be tarred or constructed to make them more passable. EC fixes June 27 for Assin North parliamentary by-election Graphic.com.gh Politics May - 31 - 2023 , 18:22 The Electoral Commission has fixed the Assin North parliamentary by-election for Tuesday, June 27, 2023. It follows the Supreme Court's ruling on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, to the effect that the election of James Gyakye Quayson as Member of Parliament for the Assin North Constituency in 2020, was "unconstitutional, null and void and of no legal effect." This has made the seat of the constituency in Parliament vacant, and Parliament has subsequently communicated that vacancy to the Electoral Commission. In accordance with Article 112 (5) of the 1992 Constitution, as amended, the Electoral Commission has decided to hold a By-Election in the Assin North Constituency on Tuesday, June 27, 2023. Nominations In a press statement issued by Jean Mensa, the Chairperson of the EC on Wednesday evening [May 31, 2023], the Electoral Commission announced that it will from Monday, June 12 to Wednesday, June 14, 2023 receive nominations from prospective candidates for the Election of a Member of Parliament for Assin North constituency. The nominations will be received at the Assin North District Office of the Commission and that interested candidates are required to download the Nomination Forms from the Commission's website (www.ec.gov.gh). It said a "prospective candidate may personally deliver or cause to be delivered on his/her behalf by either the Proposer or Seconder of his/her Nomination, the completed Nomination Forms to the Returning Officer at the Assin North District Office of the Commission, on the dates and times stated above." The Nomination Forms for each Candidate shall be witnessed by the signature or mark of two (2) registered voters, as Proposer and Seconder, and supported by eighteen (18) other registered voters in the Constituency ds assenting to the Nominations. The Nomination Forms shall also be endorsed with the Candidate's consent to the Nomination. A Candidate shall at the time of submitting his/her completed Nomination Forms, provide the Returning Officer with two (2) copies of a recent post card (bust sized) photograph against a red background, showing his/her full face and ears. The filing fee for the election is Ten thousand Ghana Cedis (GHt10,000.00) per candidate. All completed Nomination Forms are expected to be delivered in quadruplicate. Supreme Court cautions, discharges Kpessa-Whyte over contempt Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson Politics May - 31 - 2023 , 06:48 An associate Professor of the University of Ghana and leading member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Prof. Michael Kpessa-Whyte, has benefitted from the mercy seat of the Supreme Court after he was cautioned and discharged for contempt. A fivemember panel of the highest court of the land, after discharging Prof. Kpessa-Whyte, said the comments were not deserving of a professor and ,therefore, advised him to live an exemplary life as many people looked up to him. Sometimes, we do not appreciate how important we are. You are an opinion leader and you are now an associate professor, many people look up to you, do not lead them into temptation, a member of the panel, Justice Prof. Joy Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu advised the contemnor. Guilty Prof. Kpessa Whyte, who described the apex court as stupid court in a tweet on microblogging site, Twitter, yesterday pleaded guilty to scandalising the Supreme Court, bringing into ridicule the dignity, respect and stature of the court and inciting prejudice against the court. He initially pleaded not guilty, which he changed to guilty with explanation and finally guilty. He was convicted on his own plea but the court decided not to punish him following his apology and retraction of the said contemptuous comments. The court further had mercy on the convict after a spirited mitigation by his lawyer, Dr Justice Srem Sai and the Director of the Ghana School of Law, Barima Oppong Kodie aka Yaw Oppong, who was in the courtroom and decided to plead on behalf of the contemnor . Mitigation In his submission for mitigation, Dr Sai pleaded with the court to have mercy on his client, submitting that Prof. Kpessa-Whyte had purged himself by issuing an apology and also pulling down the said tweet, replacing it with the apology. It is our humble prayer and in all humility in sackcloth, we plead for mercy and clemency from your Lordships seat of justice. We undertake that such a sad and regrettable occurrence will not ever happen again, he said. Counsel said his client would now devote himself to defending the integrity of the apex court and the entire Judiciary. For his part, Barima Oppong Kodie pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy and be lenient with the contemnor. Judgment Delivering the judgment that culminated in the caution of Prof. Kpessa-Whyte, the court was of the considered view that the Supreme Court and the entire Judiciary were not above criticism, but it was important that such criticisms did not jeopardise the administration of justice. Making reference to the three high court judges who were gruesomely murdered in 1982, Justice Mariama Owusu, who read the judgment, said judges must be criticised fairly but not in a manner that could make them object of hatred or denigrate the courts. The panel was presided over by Justice Owusu, with Justices, Avril Lovelace -Johnson, Mensa-Bonsu, Samuel Kwame Adibu Asiedu and George Kingsley Koomson, as members The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander goes on sale in the US this summer with three available powertrains across three grades: the 2.4L turbo gasoline engine, the 2.5L hybrid, and the 362 hp Hybrid MAX. (Earlier post.) Designed by Calty Design Studios and exclusively assembled at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Princeton, Indiana, the 2024 Grand Highlander will have a starting MSRP of $43,070 for the gasoline engine models, $44,670 for the hybrid and $54,040 for the Hybrid MAX powertrain. The gasoline engine delivers 265 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 7.5 seconds (FWD) and the hybrid powertrain delivers 245 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 7.8 seconds (AWD). The Hybrid MAX powertrain makes Grand Highlander the most powerful Midsize SUV Toyota has ever built, with a 0-60 time of 6.3 seconds. The Hybrid MAX powertrain also has 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity. The gasoline powertrain has an EPA-estimated 24 combined MPG for XLE FWD; the hybrid an EPA-estimated 36 combined MPG for the XLE FWD and the HYBRID MAX with an EPA-estimated 27 combined MPG. All three powertrains come with three Drive Modes (Sport, Eco, Normal) to make driving more engagingwhile Multi-Terrain Select with three modes (Mud & Sand, Rock & Dirt, Snow) is offered on the gas AWD and Hybrid MAX powertrains for even more on and off-road capability. All powertrains can be equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option on the well-balanced 2.4L turbo gas engine and the efficient 2.5L hybrid or standard on the powerful Hybrid MAX. Dynamic Torque Control AWD on the gasoline models works to distribute torque actively between the front and rear axles, as well as the two rear wheels. It uses an electromagnetic coupling ahead of the rear differential to engage or disengage the rear wheels as neededthe result is improved traction and enhanced driving stability. Electronic On-Demand AWD on hybrid models provides fuel efficiency, start-off acceleration, handling and stability. Electronic On-Demand AWD achieves stable performance by driving the rear wheels with an electric motor, to provide traction when needed in slippery conditions. The front and rear wheel driving force distribution is precisely controlled to the front and rear wheels between 100:0 and 20:80 to achieve optimal fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving performance. Full-Time Electronic AWD paired with HYBRID MAX delivers power to the front and rear wheels via a front mounted hybrid motor and a rear-mounted, eAxle electric motor. This system supports stable AWD performance and satisfying acceleration thanks to being paired with a direct shift six-speed automatic transmission. Full-Time Electronic All-Wheel Drive adjusts between a 70:30 and 20:80 front- and rear-wheel power split, depending on the driving situation. This new AWD system enhances the drive force of the rear wheels and provides the feel of rear-wheel-drive maneuverability, straight line stability and responsive acceleration. The Grand Highlander is equipped with the latest tech from Toyota, including Toyotas Traffic Jam Assist technology (Platinum grade). Traffic Jam Assist is a radar and camera-based system that helps ease the burden of stressful stop-and-go traffic on limited access roadways by operating the steering, gas and brake pedals at speeds between 0-25 mph under certain conditions. The 2024 Grand Highlander also will come standard with the latest Toyota Safety Sense generation, TSS 3.0. The TSS 3.0 system adds the new Proactive Driving Assist system. When system operating conditions are met, using the vehicles camera and radar, this system provides gentle braking into curves or gentle braking and/or steering to help support driving tasks such as distance control between a preceding vehicle, pedestrian or bicyclist. Proactive Driving Assist is not a substitute for the Pre-Collision System and operates in different circumstances. A new report sheds first light on the Google Pixel Watch 2, which is due in the Fall alongside the Pixel 8 series. Per this report, Google's second-gen smartwatch will make the move from Samsung's Exynos chipset to the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 generation. Whether it's the Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 or the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1, we're looking at a 4nm chip with four Cortex-A53 cores - a significant improvement to the Pixel Watch's 10nm Exynos 9110, which has just two Cortex-A53 cores. The W5+ has a special co-processor for a more efficient Always-On display and other features. The spec bump should provide the Pixel Watch 2 with a healthy improvement in battery life over its predecessor. Though it's important to note that Samsung's wearable chips are competitive with the 5nm W920 chip in the Galaxy Watch4 generation, and the rumored W980 that will premiere on the Galaxy Watch 6. The other major improvement, per the report, is the addition of the specialized health sensors from the Fitbit Sense 2 - a continuous electrodermal activity (cEDA) sensor for stress tracking, and a skin temperature sensor. Source On day six of power restoration since Condition of Readiness 4, the Guam Power Authority had restored 28% of the system load as of 1 p.m. Wednesday, according to a news release by GPA. In addition, 23 of the 24 GPA substations have been energized. Five additional circuits/feeders had been added to the island-wide system for a total of 39 feeders/circuits that are partially energized. Substations need to be energized before feeders and circuits can get power, and then service to customers can be restored. GPA also stated numerous key restoration events to critical infrastructure within the past 24 hours. Water and wastewater systems The two large production wells, AG2 and HGC2, were energized; both are on island power. The Apra Heights Substation was energized, which allows GPA to begin energizing the GAAN Wastewater Treatment Plant and the Tipalao Wastewater Treatment Plant to avoid sewage overflows. Marbo Substation was energized to bring power to water wells in Marbo. P-294 from Pulantat to Pago Bay was energized. This provided power to the critical Pago Bay Water Booster Pump station and additional wells in the area. DoD The Orote Substation was energized last night to this substation, which provided the naval Station power. The Navy can now begin restoration of service of naval facilities. Airport GPA energized the GIAA Cargo and Handling area near the old terminal. GPA also listed their key objectives for Wednesday. Key communications infrastructure in Piti and Tumon. Energize balance of P-294 to DPHSS in Mangilao. Energize Wastewater treatment plants in Hagat. Energize Navy Cold Storage and SRF Substations. Energize GWA wells on P-89 near the Guam Fire Department fire station and Yigo Amusement Park. Energize Umatac Substation in order to begin restoration in South. Energize Route 16 Wastewater Sewage Pump Station and Fort Juan Muna. Energize Navy Radio Barrigada Substation. Continue work on urgent needs islandwide. GPA published key objectives specifically for generation capacity. The current operable capacity is 111 megawatts with a current load of 52 MW. Cabras 1, which will be operable with a capacity of 45MW, should be online Thursday. Cabras 2, which will be operable with a 45MW capacity, should be online by Saturday. Piti 8 & 9, which will be operable with a 88MW capacity, should be online by Sunday. Yigo CT, which will be operable with a 20MW capacity, should be online by Sunday. The capacity available can serve the current energized customers. GPA stated their process going forward. Address critical water, wastewater, communications, health and other critical services infrastructure. Launch the next phase of recovery in within the next two days. Divide crews into three or more sectors (north, central and south) to begin concentrated efforts in restoring as many customers as possible in parts of the circuit with minimal damages. This phase of restoration will result in significantly boosting the restored system load over the 2nd week of GTAs post-typhoon restoration. Plan recovery efforts for heavily damaged areas. Activate the CNMI CUC crew, which includes 16 personnel. Add bucket trucks to recovery. Activate APPA mutual assistance crews and equipment for a 115-kilovolt tower repair. Potentially activate line crews from APPA for distribution level assistance. We are working to restore your power service as soon as possible, stated GPA. GPA continues to ask for the publics patience and understanding as we work on restoring power to the entire island." The Guam Football Association recently pledged its support of Guam Cancer Cares Join the Fight Campaign with a pledge-signing event at the GFA National Training Center Oct. 22, 2022. Guam Cancer Care announced May 31, 2023, that they shall remain open and accessible for all cancer patients needing direct support services. By Mark Waghorn via SWNS A cheap smartphone app has been developed that monitors blood pressure at your fingertips. The simple 3D printed plastic smartphone attachment clips into the camera and flash - and will cost less than 10p. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the world's biggest killers. It affects more than one-in-four Brits. Many are unaware as there are no symptoms. Study first author Tom Xuan, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, San Diego, said: "We have created an inexpensive solution to lower the barrier to blood pressure monitoring." The price is expected to fall to just 10 cents a unit with mass production. It could help make regular checks more easy, affordable and accessible. Older people and pregnant women, for example, will be better able to manage the condition. Senior author Professor Edward Wang, director of the university's Digital Health Lab, said: "Because of their low cost, these clips could be handed out to anyone who needs them but cannot go to a clinic regularly. "A blood pressure monitoring clip could be given to you at your checkup, much like how you get a pack of floss and toothbrush at your dental visit. This is what distinguishes our device from other blood pressure monitors." Another key advantage is it avoids the problems of blood pressure cuffs. Using one that is too large or small can give inaccurate readings. Other cuffless systems being developed for smartwatches and smartphones, he explained, require obtaining a separate set of measurements with a cuff so that their models can be tuned to fit these measurements. He added: Ours is a calibration-free system, meaning you can just use our device without touching another blood pressure monitor to get a trustworthy blood pressure reading. To measure blood pressure, the user simply presses on the clip. A customized app guides them on how hard and long to push during the measurement. The clip features an optical design similar to that of a pinhole camera. The smartphone's flash lights up the user's fingertip. It is then projected as an image of a red circle. A spring allows different levels of force. The harder, the bigger the red circle appears. By looking at the size of the circle, the app can measure the amount of pressure the fingertip applies. The brightness of the circle depicts the volume of blood going in and out. An algorithm converts this information into systolic and diastolic blood pressure numbers. The former reading measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats an the latter that in your arteries when it rests. The researchers tested the clip on 24 volunteers from the UC San Diego Medical Center. Results were comparable to those taken by a blood pressure cuff. Co-author Dr. Alison Moore, a geriatrician at the UC San Diego School of Medicine, said: "Using a standard blood pressure cuff can be awkward to put on correctly, and this solution has the potential to make it easier for older adults to self-monitor blood pressure." The device described in Scientific Reports is expected to work on all smartphones. Next steps include making the technology more user friendly, especially for older adults, testing its accuracy across different skin tones and creating a more universal design. As power is restored to the island following Typhoon Mawar, monthly power bills will now be much cheaper. The Public Utilities Commission announced that the fuel surcharge the most expensive part of the power bill will be cut to 23.14 cents per kilowatt-hour, effective June 1. Thats lower than the 24.8 cents per kilowatt-hour proposed by GPA. According to the PUC, thats because fuel prices dropped even more since GPA submitted its proposed fuel surcharge. The current fuel surcharge, which took effect last November, is 31.8 cents per kilowatt-hour. According to a report by PUC Chief Administrative Law Judge Fred Horecky, GPA will erase its fuel under-recovery by the end of January 2024, even with a lower surcharge. As of April, GPA was about $17 million in the hole for its fuel expenses. According to Horeckys report, there is a compelling public interest to reduce the fuel surcharge so customers wont be paying more than necessary. According to the PUC, the commission is scheduled to meet June 5 to ratify the change. This proposed LEAC factor will result in a 21.01% decrease in the total bill, and a 27.44% decrease in the LEAC factor, according to the PUC. The average residential customers bill will be reduced by $87.43 per month. The average residential customer, who uses 1,000 kilowatt-hours a month, will see their bill drop from $416 to $328. The average price for the fuel oil burned by some of GPAs power plants is $148.10 per barrel, and the average price for diesel is $119.19, according to the PUC. As of Tuesday afternoon, about 26% of GPA customers had their power restored. Our crews continue to work 24/7, Kenneth Gutierrez, safety and physical security manager for GPA, told lawmakers during an emergency session Tuesday. Pending any assistance from FEMA, GPA already has invoked mutual aid agreements, asking the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to provide linemen, and the American Public Power Association to provide specialized bucket trucks, with crew and materials, Gutierrez said. In a time of recovery, communication is key. Unfortunately, Typhoon Mawar has made communication almost impossible for some. In the southern part of Guam, communication continues to be pushed to its limit. IT&E and Docomo Pacific have both publicly announced that their infrastructure down south have sustained substantial damage. Jaeline Chargualaf spoke on behalf of the Inalahan Mayors Office to indicate how theyre keeping their community chat properly informed. Residents are mainly only able to get service here if theyre under GTA, so some of them are buying new SIM cards to be in our chat, said Chargualaf. The community group chat is still very active because sometimes, the residents are the first ones to share updates about any government programs or gas situations. On the contrast, Vice Mayor Christopher Fejeran of Hagat indicated that their information has mainly been spread by personal visits or word of mouth. Connectivity can get spotty here, so even though we have a community chat, the mayor, myself, and our staff still have to check on homes and provide updates about what is going on, stated Fejeran. Thankfully, there is that island way where residents who are able to hear from us go to their neighbors, friends, or family members themselves to relay the messages. Some residents, however, were still not able to receive communications, no matter who is their provider. Humatak Mayor Johnny Quinata expressed his frustrations that all their systems waver in connectivity in short amounts of time. Our communications mainly need to be through word of mouth because not everyone is able to get our messages, expressed Quinata. Residents are all beginning to lack food, gas and power, so my offices staff is doing its best to visit houses to share the information. Joy Aguon, also of Humatak, echoed the mayors sentiment. I have to use a generator for a few hours just to get information in and out, Aguon said. If Im going through this, I think the mayors office should at least be given a generator just to have a network connection and be able to reach the community efficiently. The community is not seeing how much work the mayor and his staff have put in to communicate, clear debris, and provide what they can. Despite all the frustration and troubles that come with the connectivity issues, residents advised to still have optimism and work together. This is a wake-up call, said Aguon. Weve survived through different storms and a lack of utilities in the past, so we can do it again. Tony Babauta of Santa Rita-Sumai shared his appreciation despite having to travel around just to get data. We simply have to buckle down and take care of each other, Babauta said. We see now where were weak, but after everything, we still have to be thankful we have something to work with. Haiti - Education : FNE evaluation mission on school sites in the Great North Jean Ronald Joseph, Director General of the National Education Fund (FNE), accompanied by his counterpart from the Office of Partnership in Education (ONAPE), Herve Boursiquot and other executives of the institution, made several visits to supervision in schools under construction in the Nord and Nord-Est departments. Jean Ronald Joseph was delighted to see the rapid progress of the construction work of the schools visited. Complete fundamental national school of Roy (2nd section Bois-de-Lance, Ranquitte, North) : The complete national fundamental school of Roy is ready to be inaugurated. According to the information provided by its Director, Taffard Saint-Verty, this school went from the category of community school to that of public school during the year 2012 following the steps taken by the inhabitants and notables of the locality of Roy. This institution currently welcomes 248 students (136 girls and 112 boys). The building has 14 rooms, a tank, two sanitary blocks and a space for the caretaker. Maquillon National School (Cazeau, 1st section of Perches, North-East) : The national school of Maquillon, located in the locality of Cazeau, welcomes 121 boys and 95 girls at the level of the second fundamental cycle, 61 boys and 54 girls at the third cycle. Transformed into a public school by the Haitian State in 2011, this school has brand new buildings consisting of 14 rooms, 2 toilet blocks, a water tank and a space for the caretaker. The works began in 2021 and are at a level of completion of 95%. National School Elie Dubois (Haut-Madeleine, 4th section Fort-Liberte, North-East) : Construction work on the Elie Dubois National School in Haut-Madeleine was launched in 2021. This school, which has 12 rooms, including 9 classrooms, an administrative office, a room, among other things, for teachers, has 172 students (98 boys and 74 girls). It is built of reinforced concrete with retaining walls adapted to the constraints of the ground. National School Loiseau (Loiseau, 3rd section Fort-Liberte, North-East) : In accordance with the standard plan in force, the National School of L'oiseau has 14 rooms which include, among other things, the administrative building, a teachers' room, preschool and the first 9 years of fundamental. Became a public school in 2012, the school welcomes 212 students (105 boys and 107 girls) from preschool to the 7th fundamental year. These school infrastructures, financed by the FNE (0.05 US dollars on each incoming telephone minute and fees of 1.50 US dollars on fund transfers) cover the first 9 years of the fundamental cycle. During the exchanges, most of the heads of the schools visited thanked the FNE for the construction of these schools and took the opportunity to request a cafeteria, a depot to store provisions, a kitchen, a playground, a computer room... Read also about some other achievements of the FNE (partial) : https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-39561-icihaiti-education-inauguration-of-the-new-national-school-jean-baptiste-dutty-boukman.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-39447-haiti-petit-trou-de-nippes-inauguration-of-the-first-agricultural-technical-high-school-in-haiti.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-39432-haiti-diaspora-supervision-visits-of-the-fne-on-school-sites-in-the-north.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-39375-icihaiti-politic-the-contribution-of-the-haitian-diaspora-honored-in-cap-haitien.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-39285-haiti-education-inauguration-of-2-new-national-schools-funded-by-the-diaspora.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-37531-icihaiti-tourism-agreement-of-17-million-gourdes-between-the-fne-and-the-hotel-school-of-haiti.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-37262-icihaiti-social-35-million-gdes-for-the-education-of-young-people-with-disabilities.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37222-haiti-education-launch-of-the-summer-camp-jwe-pou-lavi.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34510-icihaiti-fne-construction-of-3-new-high-schools-in-the-north-west.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-35476-icihaiti-artibonite-upcoming-inauguration-of-new-national-schools.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34037-icihaiti-fne-monitoring-of-the-construction-work-of-the-lycee-de-freres-new-secondary.html HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping... Another police officer assassinated Tuesday May 30, 2023, the police officer Frandy Occil, while he was going to the city center of the capital was killed in Bizoton by members of the gang led by "Chris la" who took away his body. Lionel Lazarre coordinator of the National Union of Haitian Police Officers (SYNAPOHA) denounced a targeted attack, deploring that police officers continue to be murdered in this way... Citizenship : Statement by Trump On Tuesday, May 30, 2023, former US President Donald Trump said that if he won the 2024 election, he would sign on his first day in the White House an executive order to end automatic US citizenship for children immigrants in an irregular migration situation born on American soil. 2 years that gangs control the southern entrance to Port-au-Prince Thursday, June 1st, 2023, it will be exactly two years since armed individuals controlled the southern entrance to Port-au-Prince. PNH : 2 active members of "400 Mawozo" killed Tuesday, May 30, 2023 in Croix-des-Bouquets, Charles Dieupifort and Jean Marc Jean Evens, two active members of the "400 Mawozo" Gang specializing in the hijacking of trucks and vans of goods in the Despinos and Savanne Blonde area were fatally injured, in a firefight with the police. Kidnapper gangs dismantled The Police dismantled a network of kidnappers in the Dufort area (Leogane district, West Department). A kidnapper was mortally wounded, two of his accomplices were arrested and hostages released. Port-de-Paix : Torrential rains, 2 dead children Following torrential rain at the start of the week, several municipalities in the North-West department, including Chansolme and Port-de-Paix, were victims of flooding. At least two children (2 and 11 years old) were killed on rue Charlemagne Peralte in Port-de-Paix and several hundred houses were flooded... HL/ HaitiLibre The American company is expected to make a final investment decision on the projects in 20252026. PLUG POWER , a fuel-cell company headquartered in Latham, New York, on Tuesday unveiled a tentative plan worth an estimated 5.6 billion euros to build three hydrogen plants in Finland in Kokkola, Kristiinankaupunki and Porvoo. CEO Andy Marsh indicated that Finland was selected as the location of the planned sites due to its commitment to slashing carbon dioxide emissions and high-quality infrastructure. He also pointed to the countrys recent accession to Nato, according to YLE. We are proud to commit our know-how and turnkey hydrogen solutions towards helping Finland deliver on its vision to become a European leader of the green hydrogen economy, he commented in a press release. The three sites are set to have a combined green hydrogen capacity of 850 tons per day, or 2.2 gigawatts of electrolyser capacity, by the end of the decade. The sites are estimated to create roughly 1,000 permanent jobs in Finland. Plug Power on Tuesday signed agreements concerning the project with each of the three municipalities, securing its access to the plots, and memorandums of agreement with the national gas and electricity grid operators, Gasgrid and Fingrid. Finland is a suitable location for the plants due to its high volume of emission-free energy production and well functioning industrial ecosystem, analysed Markku Kivisto, the head of clean technologies at Invest in Finland. This investment is significant for Europe, showcasing Finlands international competitiveness and marking a remarkable achievement, he rejoiced. Collaboration with our regions has been outstanding, demonstrating how small towns can lead industrial progress. This project will boost economic activity, create jobs and foster well-being for years to come. Helsingin Sanomat on Tuesday reported that Plug Power has not posted a profit once since 1997, according to data from Refinitiv. The British-American financial database reveals that the company has run up losses of altogether 2.92 billion US dollars in the past 26 years, including a loss of 680 million dollars in 2022. Its revenue has developed more positively, though. While the revenue did not hit the 100-million-dollar until 2015, it exceeded 700 million dollars in 2022. Plug Power expects the revenue to double to 1.4 billion dollars in 2023 and exceed two billion euros in 2024. Marsh admitted to the newspaper that the planned investment is large for Plug Power. While discussions about the project funding are ongoing, he estimated that three quarters of the funding would be debt and one quarter own capital. Aleksi Teivainen HT Helsinki Pride on Tuesday announced its board has agreed on partnerships with Kansallinen Sateenkaariryhma Kasary, Finnish Centre Youth and Finnish Centre Students. A partnership invitation has been extended also to Tuhatkunta, the student union of the National Coalition. ORGANISATIONS linked to the Centre and National Coalition have been accepted as official partners of Helsinki Pride. We sincerely appreciate the long-term efforts these actors have made toward human rights. We have more goals that bring us together than separate us, the advocacy said in a press release. The announcement came roughly a week after it was reported that the gender and sexual minority advocacy has turned down the opportunity to partner with the Centre and National Coalition for Helsinki Pride 2023. Senni Moilanen, the board chairperson at Helsinki Pride, confirmed to Helsingin Sanomat on Friday that the decision was made on grounds of the parties handling of the trans act reform. Both the Centre and National Coalition defined the reform as an issue of conscience, the former accounting for 13 and the latter for 10 of the 69 votes cast against the reform in the Finnish Parliament on 1 February. The National Coalition was also the only opposition party to lend support to the reform, with 26 of its 37 lawmakers supporting it, thus ensuring it passed despite opposition from the Centre, a part of the ruling majority coalition. The reaction has stirred up frustration particularly within the National Coalition. Chairperson Petteri Orpo last week described the decision to reject the partys partnership application as unusual and offensive to numerous members of the party. Following the public debate, we are still disappointed with the decision made by Helsinki Pride Community on the partnership of the National Coalition, but hopefully this co-operation allows us to build a bridge for future years, Konsta Nupponen, the chairperson of Kasary, stated on Tuesday. The Centre Party-affiliated partners, meanwhile, highlighted that they have pushed their parent organisation to stand up more resolutely for human rights. We thank the organisation for the discussion as the result of which our actives can, if they choose to, participate in the [Pride] event through a Centre-affiliated organisation. We have shared goals, said Aleksi Sandroos, the chairperson of Finnish Centre Students. Helsinki Pride on Tuesday stated that it is willing to continue dialogue with the parties, outlining that all organisations that support the equality and non-discrimination of gender and sexual minorities are welcome as its partners. Aleksi Teivainen HT The Finnish government announced today that a new nature conservation law will be implemented on June 1st. The updated legislation aims to strengthen the protection of various natural habitats, promote voluntary ecological compensation, and emphasize the precautionary principle. The Nature Conservation Law is considered one of the most important tools for safeguarding Finland's biodiversity. The main objective of the law is to ensure the preservation of biodiversity, protect natural beauty and landscape values, promote adaptation to climate change, support the sustainable use of natural resources and the environment, enhance public awareness and knowledge of nature, and advance scientific research in the field. According to the precautionary principle, decision-making under the law must consider the significant threat of biodiversity loss, even in the absence of scientific certainty regarding negative environmental impacts. Enhanced Protection for Habitat Types The new law includes provisions for the protection of certain habitat types. The number of protected habitat types will increase, and in the future, decisions by the Finnish Environment Institute may extend protection to features such as forested slopes on ridges (harjumetsien valorinteet) and marine sediments (meriajokaspohjat). Furthermore, the law introduces a new form of habitat protection by explicitly safeguarding rare serpentinite rocks and open coastal dunes. These strictly protected habitat types are already endangered, scarce in Finland, small in size, and have been negatively impacted by human activities. The disappearance of even one occurrence of these habitats could compromise their overall conservation status. Restrictions on Ore Prospecting in National Parks and Nature Reserves Under the new law, ore prospecting will be completely prohibited in national parks and nature reserves, while the conditions for such activities in other state-owned conservation areas will be significantly tightened. Expanded Participation in Biodiversity Conservation Efforts The law strengthens the knowledge base for biodiversity and enhances planning systems for nature conservation. It also provides opportunities to promote environmental awareness and education among citizens by reinforcing the interactive nature of official tasks and decision-making processes. A new provision in the law allows for financial assistance to be provided for the management and restoration of biodiversity. This involves monetary support from the state for voluntary efforts in the maintenance and restoration of species' habitats. Additionally, the law establishes a national biodiversity strategy and action plan. The strategy guides policies for nature protection, restoration, and management, aiming to reduce pressures on biodiversity. It sets nationwide goals for halting the loss of species and improving the overall state of nature. The action plan identifies necessary measures and assigns responsible parties for their implementation and impact assessment. The Ministry of the Environment, in collaboration with key stakeholders, will develop the strategy, which will then be approved by the Council of State. Voluntary Ecological Compensation as a New Tool The new law also introduces voluntary ecological compensation as a means to offset the impact of human activities on biodiversity. Through ecological compensation, the harm caused to biodiversity in one location can be compensated by improving biodiversity in another. For example, the loss of a meadow due to construction activities can be compensated by enhancing the condition of a degraded meadow elsewhere. This approach ensures that overall nature values do not diminish. Landowners who wish to contribute to the creation of nature values can seek official verification for their efforts. The produced nature values can then be sold to companies that aim to compensate for their negative impacts on nature, thus demonstrating their commitment to responsible practices. The implementation of the new nature conservation law is a significant step forward in protecting Finland's diverse ecosystems and securing the well-being of both present and future generations. The legislation emphasizes the importance of preserving biodiversity, promoting sustainable land use, and fostering public participation in environmental conservation. It sets a precedent for other countries to prioritize nature protection and adopt innovative approaches to ecological compensation. HT Strengthening Finland's economic growth is crucial for the health of public finances. Therefore, the Finnish Entrepreneurs propose numerous actions in their growth program that would allow companies to take more risks and foster growth. The government program should promote local agreements in workplaces, limit political and illegal strikes, and reform unemployment and social security to make work more profitable. The Finnish Entrepreneurs' Council approved a statement on the growth program during their meeting on Tuesday in Helsinki. The proportion of growth-oriented companies has been declining for years, and the number of employer entrepreneurs has even plummeted in recent years. The business outlook for companies has deteriorated during the spring. "The government must take determined action to strengthen business growth and the willingness of entrepreneurs and owners to expand their businesses, invest, and create jobs. There are ways to achieve this if decision-makers have sufficient will and courage," says Petri Salminen, Chairman of the Finnish Entrepreneurs. In Finland, the consequences of illegal strikes are more significant than in Sweden, for example. Since 2000, Finland has lost over 560,000 working days due to illegal strikes, while in Sweden, the losses have been limited to 3,700 working days (Source: Eva). Freeing up Workplace Agreements The Entrepreneurs demand that the government strengthen employment by implementing labor market reforms at the beginning of its term. These reforms would reduce public expenditure but increase revenues. They include, among others, removing bans on local bargaining from legislation, reforming industrial peace regulations, phasing in earnings-related unemployment benefits, and promoting labor immigration. "Trust, transparency in information flow, and fair treatment are consistently strongest in small businesses. It is contradictory that lawmakers restrict the possibility of agreements precisely where the conditions for bargaining are most favorable. This can now be changed at the Parliament House," says Mari Laaksonen, Chair of the Council. The Entrepreneurs also expect faster permit processes and increased competition. Healthcare and social services need corrective measures and more multiple providers to ensure that people receive treatment without delays. "We need to speed up permit processes and zoning with maximum time limits set by legislation. The government must also rein in public in-house companies that have been established in various sectors to circumvent competitive bidding. This often leads to inefficient use of public funds," says Salminen. HT Quick preliminary data shows that Finland's greenhouse gas emissions decreased in 2022. According to the preliminary information, the decrease compared to the previous year was four percent. The total greenhouse gas emissions, excluding the land use sector, amounted to 45.8 million tonnes of CO-equivalents, which is two million tonnes less than in 2021. "The emissions from the burden-sharing sector decreased by three percent and fell below the emission quota set by the EU for 2022 by approximately 1.3 million tonnes (CO-eq)," says Pia Forsell, Head of Development at Statistics Finland. Finland's greenhouse gas emissions have decreased by 36 percent compared to the base year 1990 and by 46 percent since 2003 when emissions reached their highest level during the 1990-2022 period. In 2022, the land use sector returned to being a net carbon sink. According to the preliminary data, the net carbon sink in the land use, land-use change, and forestry (LULUCF) sector amounted to -1.0 million CO-equivalent tonnes. "The decrease in harvesting volumes compared to the previous year contributed to the land use sector shifting from a small net emission to a small net carbon sink," says Senior Actuary Sini Niinisto. "The assessment of whether the sector was a net emission source or a net carbon sink will be refined in the next release of the greenhouse gas statistics, for which updated information on wood products, land areas, and forest inventory will be available," adds Niinisto. The energy sector remained the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in 2022, accounting for 72 percent of Finland's total emissions. However, emissions from the energy sector decreased by 1.3 million tonnes of CO-eq compared to the previous year. "The decrease was primarily influenced by the decline in natural gas consumption. Natural gas prices were exceptionally high last year, and the cessation of pipeline gas imports from Russia at the end of May 2022 further reduced its usage," says Senior Actuary Paivi Lindh. The decrease in natural gas consumption reduced emissions by 2.1 million tonnes of CO-eq. However, the use of coal replaced some of the natural gas in energy production, resulting in a 0.8 million-ton increase in emissions from coal. According to the preliminary data, emissions from industrial processes and product use decreased by nearly 12 percent. The significant reduction in emissions was mainly due to a nearly one-fifth decrease in emissions from the metal industry, resulting from a reduction in steel production. Emissions from agriculture remained at the same level as the previous year, at slightly over six million tonnes. "A slight decrease in the number of cattle and pigs reduced emissions from enteric fermentation and manure management, but higher crop yields increased soil emissions from crop residues, resulting in overall unchanged emissions from agriculture," explains Niinisto. On the other hand, emissions from the waste sector continued to decrease. Emissions from waste treatment decreased by five percent compared to the previous year. The emission and removal data for 2022 were calculated at a rougher level and using different methods than the data for preceding years. The data will be refined as all the information used in the calculations becomes available. The preliminary data for the greenhouse gas statistics will be published in December 2023, and the official data will be released in March 2024. HT Kuusamo Airport , an important gateway for tourism in the Kuusamo region of Finland, is undergoing significant renovations by airport company Finavia. The repairs, which include the replacement of the runway lighting system and resurfacing of the apron and taxiway, will enhance safety and ensure smooth traffic flow at the airport. However, these renovations necessitate a temporary suspension of flights from 17 July to 15 August 2023. Investing in Infrastructure for Safe and Efficient Travel The development of Kuusamo Airport's infrastructure is aimed at supporting tourism in the region, particularly during the Christmas and winter seasons. Finavia is investing a substantial amount, totaling EUR 2.5 million, in the renovation project. The majority of the funds, approximately EUR 2 million, will be allocated to replacing the runway lighting system. In line with Finavia's climate targets and commitment to energy efficiency, the existing lights will be replaced with energy-efficient LED technology. The renovation work also includes resurfacing a section of the apron and the entire taxiway. Temporary Flight Suspension and Alternative Airports During the repair period, flights between Kuusamo and Helsinki will be temporarily suspended. Additionally, the terminal at Kuusamo Airport will be closed. To accommodate the needs of residents and tourists in the Kuusamo region, Rovaniemi, Kemi-Tornio, and Oulu airports will be available for air travel. Local Employment and Collaboration The renovation project will provide employment opportunities for 1015 individuals in the Kuusamo region, and several local businesses are involved in its execution. Additionally, Finavia employees from Kuusamo, Oulu, and Kajaani airports will contribute to the project, showcasing collaboration within the organization. Building Connections and Prioritizing Sustainability Finavia is actively dedicated to expanding flight connections and developing the infrastructure and service quality of its airports to meet the needs of international passengers. The organization places a strong emphasis on sustainable development and low emissions. For tourists, the eco-friendly airports serve as a testament to responsible travel practices. Finavia's ambitious goal is to achieve net zero carbon emissions at four airports in Lapland this year, with Kuusamo Airport being among them. Preparing for the New Winter Season As one of Finavia's Lapland airports, Kuusamo Airport experiences year-round air traffic, with a significant increase in passenger volumes during the winter season. Following the completion of the renovation project, Kuusamo Airport will be well-prepared to serve travelers during the upcoming winter season. The temporary suspension of flights at Kuusamo Airport may cause some inconvenience, but the renovations are essential for ensuring the long-term safety and efficiency of air travel in the region. Finavia's commitment to sustainable development and continuous improvement will contribute to a more seamless travel experience for passengers in the future. HT Helsinki, chosen as the domestic travel destination of the year in 2022, continues to evolve as Finland's most fascinating tourist spot. Helsinki's prospects for the upcoming tourist season appear highly promising. A diverse range of events and numerous new attractions will inject additional excitement into the capital city. This summer, Helsinki is expected to approach the pre-pandemic levels of domestic, European, and American tourist arrivals, as per current projections. The city remains committed to investing in tourism and events, aligning with its urban strategy to pave the way for a more sustainable, intelligent, vibrant, and functional tourism and event city. A Summer of New Experiences and Renewal in Helsinki This year, Helsinki is set to unveil new and captivating visitor attractions alongside its beloved classics. These include the revamped Hakaniemi Market Hall, Amos Anderson's Hem Home Museum, and the upcoming Kulttuurikasarmi cultural center. Additionally, the Helsinki Biennial, with its captivating artworks, will once again enchant Vallisaari Island and extend its reach across the city. Among other highlights are the U Nation electronic dance music festival at Kansalaistori Square in late June and early July, as well as a hop-on hop-off bus service from Mellunmaki metro station to Sipoonkorpi National Park. "Kaivopuisto Park will also host events, such as performances of the Mamma Mia musical in July. The cultural summer will be complemented by highly anticipated exhibitions like 'Tom of Finland' at Kiasma and 'Albert Edelfelt' at Ateneum. The city will be teeming with numerous events and exhibitions, and as Helsinki's accommodation offerings diversify, new restaurants open, and product offerings evolve, there is much to be excited about," enthuses Nina Vesterinen, Head of Tourism in Helsinki. Helsinki Captivates Travelers! The year 2022 and early 2023 have witnessed exceptional international visibility for Finland and Helsinki. Several factors have contributed to this, such as discussions on NATO membership, Finland's consecutive rankings as the world's happiest country, conversations on the functionality and preparedness of Finnish society amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and aggression in neighboring regions, and most recently, the Eurovision craze. As a result, international tour operators and media have shown exceptional interest in Helsinki's offerings and its efforts toward sustainable tourism and responsible products. "Our local tourism businesses also have positive expectations. According to our pulse survey, over three-quarters of Helsinki's tourism companies view the upcoming tourist season as good or very good," states Vesterinen. Tourist Numbers Approaching Pre-Pandemic Levels With the influx of European visitors, Helsinki is expected to reach close to pre-pandemic tourist numbers this year. However, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has led to a decrease in the number of Russian tourists. The highest number of flight bookings to Helsinki originates from Germany, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. Furthermore, significant interest in tourism-related searches has been observed from Spain and Italy. Helsinki anticipates a considerable number of domestic tourists during the summer, as well as visitors from Sweden and Estonia. "Enhancing the duration of visitors' stays in Helsinki is our goal. From the perspective of sustainability, climate change, and the economy, extending visitors' length of stay is the best way to promote tourism," emphasizes Vesterinen. Tourism Development Amid Uncertainties However, tourism development also faces various uncertainties. Travel from China and Japan has been slower to recover than anticipated. The ongoing flight ban imposed on overflights by Russia poses a challenge to air traffic between Asia and Helsinki. Additionally, several uncertainties persist concerning global economic developments. While the number of international conferences in Helsinki is increasing, it has yet to reach peak levels. Congress visitors are important to Helsinki as their stays tend to be longer than those of leisure tourists, and they also contribute higher average spending. Thus, Helsinki seeks to facilitate hosting major international congresses. The city expects over 90 international cruise ship visits this season. Helsinki Tourism Information: Tips for Travelers and Locals One of the sure signs of summer in Helsinki is the opening of tourist information summer points. In addition to the permanent service point on Aleksanterinkatu Street, a service point will be opened in the Biennial Pavilion between the Old Market Hall and Market Square on May 29. Furthermore, Helsinki Helpers, identifiable by their green vests, will be seen on the streets from early June. Tourist information will be available in 16 languages this summer. Helsinki residents are also welcome to visit the tourist information centers to explore their own city from a tourist's perspective. "If you are celebrating Helsinki Day or expecting visitors, our tourist information advisors are delighted to provide recommendations for Helsinki's diverse offerings," says Mari Somero, Team Manager of Tourist Information. As Helsinki gears up for an exciting summer of tourism, the city's rich cultural offerings, new attractions, and commitment to sustainability are set to captivate travelers from near and far. With a vision of an ever-evolving and vibrant destination, Helsinki is on track to cement its position as a must-visit city in Finland. HT Cold Spring Basecamp offers rustic cabins, mountain biking Evan Carson, Hartwell Carson, Steve Waggoner, Wilder Carson and Teela Waggoner pose on cabin steps. Cold Spring Basecamp, made up of three rustic historic cabins, camping, mountain bike trails, hiking trails and a waterfall amid 38 acres of secluded woods, is now open in the Green River Watershed, the owners announced. The basecamp is a family owned business spearheaded by partners Steve Waggoner and Hartwell Carson. Waggoner knows the basecamp intimately, having grown up camping on this property as a child. His father, Bill Waggoner, was the owner of Camp Windy Wood, on Lake Summit, and the Cold Spring Basecamp property was used for overnight camping and adventures. Bill and Steve built some of the original cabins by hand, which have recently been refurbished. One cabin, the Corn Crib, even predates the summer camp. It was the old corn storage barn for the homestead which was located on the property. "All three cabins have been meticulously rebuilt to restore and improve them, but we have worked hard to keep the old rustic charm intact, Waggoner said. The cabins feature a stocked kitchen, two bunk beds with mattresses, and an eating table. Carson, the co-owner, has worked for almost 20 years to clean up and protect the waterways in Western North Carolina as the French Broad Riverkeeper and is putting his environmental ethic to work by creating a green business. Almost all of the trees have been protected, invasive plants are being removed, creek buffers protected, solar power installed in the cabins, and a future EV charging station is in the works. A portion of the proceeds from each cabin rental will go to provide water filters for the Riverkeepers in Africa, through the nonprofit, Clean Water for Africa. These are the same filters that are being used to provide drinking water to campers at Cold Spring Basecamp. The basecamp is just down the road from Ride Rock Creek and Ride Kanuga, two popular mountain bike parks near the back entrance to Dupont State Forest. The basecamp worked with popular local trail builder Chris Shrimper Khare to design and build two fun mountain bike trail loops. One is a flowy green loop that meanders down the hillside, and the other is a more challenging blue loop that features some flowy sections, but also some fun drops, steep downhill sections and some skinny log rides. The basecamp is also located on a headwater trout stream that feeds the famous Green River, which provides class 1 to 5 thrilling paddling options. "Even if mountain biking or paddling isnt your thing," Waggoner notes, "the basecamp has hiking trails to the their private waterfall and lots of options to relax in the cabins, sit by their private fire pit or venture into nearby Saluda, Flat Rock, Hendersonville or Asheville for great restaurants, shops, drinks or adventure. Cold Spring Basecamp is designed to be the basecamp for your adventure in Western North Carolina. N.C. attorney general urges changes to recruit and retain law officers N.C. Attorney General Josh Stein speaks during a press conference in Edneyville on Wednesday. North Carolina law enforcement agencies need legislative help to hire and keep officers in their communities, N.C. Attorney General Josh Stein said Wednesday during a stop in Edneyville. We need to put our money where our mouth is, Stein said as he stood with local, area and state law enforcement leaders for a press conference at the Western Regional Crime Lab located at the Larry T. Justus Western Justice Academy in Edneyville. Law enforcement agencies across the state are struggling to staff their departments and statistics show more violent crime happens when not enough officers are on the street, he said. Hendersonville Police Chief Blair Myhand attended the press conference along with deputies from Henderson County Sheriffs Department and other law enforcement officials. Sheriff Lowell Griffin sent a letter supporting efforts to help local departments hire and keep officers. Myhand said he also supported the attorney generals proposals to recruit and retain officers. More officers are leaving the profession than are joining law enforcement agencies across the state, he said. The challenges we are facing across the state are tremendous, Myhand said. Increasing salaries for law enforcement officers is a tremendous help in hiring and keeping employees, the chief said. Hendersonville offers a hiring bonus to officers who join the department but not every county or municipality in the state has that ability, he said. Stein outlined a series of steps he said the state should take to help local departments hire and keep officers. Many of his recommendations would require action from the state legislature. While most law enforcement officers in North Carolina are paid by local governments, the state should also offer hiring bonuses and encourage hiring military veterans and out-of-state-officers, Stein said. He recommended that graduates of basic law enforcement training in North Carolina receive a $5,000 hiring bonus while out-of-state transfers and former military police officers receive $10,000 bonuses and a $10,000 relocation stipend. Stein also called on the legislature to pass the Bring Back Our Heroes Act. The act, if passed, will stop what Stein called the pension penalty and allow retired officers to return to work without any impact to their retirement pay. Steins other recommendations included: The state providing bonuses for officers who receive education or training up to a bachelors degree. Expand the Criminal Justice Fellows Program to all North Carolina counties and give students extra time to finish their degrees. The program repays community college loans for people who work four years in law enforcement jobs in the state. Launch an advertising campaign to recruit officers from other states and territories. Offer mental health and wellness resources to officers to address the unique challenges they face on the job. Allow civilians to manage minor motor vehicle accidents. Some of his proposals are in legislative committees while Stein said he wants lawmakers to take up the other ideas. Local law enforcement agencies also have the ability without legislative action to encourage and offer mental health support to officers who are performing a stressful and challenging service to their communities, Stein said. He said he hopes lawmakers will take action to prevent officers from leaving the profession and reduce the stress on officers who remain in understaffed departments. We want to stop and reverse and remind people that this is an honorable profession, he said. Theres no better way to serve your community. THE mother of a girl with cerebral palsy has started a podcast to support parents of neurodiverse children. Dr Olivia Kessel, from Henley, was inspired to share information and resources with other parents after struggling to get appropriate educational support for her 11-year-old daughter, Alexandra. So far, she has hosted 22 episodes of the SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) Parenting podcast, featuring parents, educational psychologists and teachers. Dr Kessel, 50, who is originally from South Africa, says that her own experiences and discussions with experts have convinced her of the need for a revolution in education to enable all children to fulfil their full potential. Alexandra was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at nine months old as a result of contracting coxsackievirus at nine weeks old. Dr Kessel rushed her daughter to hospital in Johnannesburg from Swaziland, where they were then living, after she developed a high fever and a rash. She said: It spread to her brain. She got meningoencephalitis from it. Honestly, I thought I was going to lose her for about two days as she was stiff as a board and Im a doctor, so I knew. Luckily, the paediatrician was excellent. She got immunoglobulins with antibodies to the coxsackievirus and gave it to my daughter and she survived. They returned to Swaziland, where Dr Kessel was working as a GP and running a charity. Alexandra continued to recover from her illness but as she grew, her mother noticed that she was not using her left arm. Dr Kessel said: At around a nine months, trying to get up and to walk, thats when it was evident she was struggling. We got an MRI of her brain and it looked terrible. They said she had cerebral palsy and referred her to a neurologist, who diagnosed her with left hemiplegia [loss of strength]. At that point my world imploded because what was the future for my child? Was she going to be able to walk, would she be able to talk, would she be able to ride a bike? Dr Kessel sought the help of nutritionists, speech therapists and physiotherapists but realised that Alexandra would need more support as she grew older. She decided they should relocate to the UK, where she had lived as a child, and they moved to Western Avenue, Henley, when Alexandra was three. Alexandra started at the nursery of Rupert House School in Bell Street. Dr Kessel said: The rationale was they have smaller classrooms, more one-to-one care, and I was hoping her needs might be met more. In retrospect, that might not have been the best decision for me to make. They were supportive of her and tried to work with her but her struggles with the left hemiplegia meant writing was difficult. If you ask her to draw or write something, Id equate it to asking a right-handed person to use their left hand, or vice-versa. It takes so much effort. Alexandra has a death grip on the pencil and thats really challenging because writing is really important in school. I saw some of her drawings and I was like, Oh my god. I really tried with them, saying we needed to use computer technology. They did try but at the time it was not part of their regular curriculum. Alexandra also had undiagnosed dyslexia. Dr Kessel, who is also dyslexic, said: Shes got a double whammy of it, is the way I look at it. She said that she discussed Alexandras needs with the then headteacher and the school made some adjustments for her, including moving her classroom to a lower floor so she did not have to negotiate the stairs multiple times a day. However, she then decided to take her daughter out of the school. She was not happy, said Dr Kessel. My daughter is normally a ray of sunshine. She was loved in her class and people didnt tease her or anything but that gap was widening. To me, it was like the school was not working for my daughter, so I needed to find another school. Dr Kessel began looking at other local private and state primary schools. She said that some wouldnt even meet her, while others said that Alexandra would not be able to use the computer equipment that helps her to read and write without an Educational Health Care Plan from the education authority. Dr Kessel found the experience upsetting. She said: At the time, it felt very personal, like taking off layers of my skin, but now I can see it from the educators perspective. Ive gone to primary schools here and they say, We want to be more neurodiverse-friendly but if we start putting this in place, then people start to hear about it and more neurodiverse people come and it costs a lot of money because the state doesnt pay enough. We just dont have the money for it. Then I talk to private schools and they also dont want to be known for it. They have very good SEND programmes and they do things differently but its not considered a commercial benefit. They dont want other parents to think, Oh, thats a specialist school, I dont want to send my child there. Rupert House recommended the Unicorn School in Abingdon, a specialist school which supports children with dyslexia and other learning difficulties. Dr Kessel said: I went to visit the headmaster and it was like Wow, all this fighting Ive been doing with everyone and here he is talking about my child reaching her potential and how they use technology to bridge the gap with dyslexia and incorporate it into the classrooms, how they have one-on-ones. The one thing that stuck out was that they saw my child as having potential. I went back to my car and just cried. I thought: Ive found our place. Alexandra began at the Unicorn just as the covid lockdown began in 2020, joining virtually until the restrictions were lifted and she could start to attend in person. Dr Kessel said that her daughter loved the school but she had to pay the fees of 30,000 a year because she did not then have an EHCP. She says that she was given the wrong information about how to apply for the plan, an issue that she addresses in a podcast episode. She was finally granted an EHCP from Oxfordshire County Council in July last year but the council wanted Alexandra to attend a large mainstream school and to go up a year as her mother had chosen to hold her back a year when she moved up from nursery as she was a late summer baby. Dr Kessel visited this school with an open mind but says she was told that her daughter would only get smaller class sizes for reading and writing, with a teaching assistant, and no support in the other subjects. She said: I thought, this is not the place for my daughter. It made me think, Shes not going to want to go to school, then shes hitting the teenage years, she could get depressed. I came out of there crying. She protested to the council and eventually it agreed to fund Alexandras place at the Unicorn but still insisted that Alexandra moved up a year. Dr Kessel took the council to a tribunal but on the eve of the hearing it conceded, which she described as all my Christmases and birthdays come at once. She said: All the stress. I thought I was going to have to get rid of this house as I didnt know how I was going to provide for us. I would do anything for my child to keep her where she was flourishing. Now Alexandra uses a Microsoft package, which enables her to overcome the fine motor skill challenges that prevent her from writing by dictating her thoughts. With her imagination unlocked, she has now written a small book. She loves Minecraft and Roblox and is becoming more independent and enjoys helping other children at the school. Dr Kessel is determined to use her experiences and new-found knowledge to help other parents. She said: I am so lucky. I am really privileged to get this far but it almost killed me, this journey. Im a doctor so I was able to borrow money but what about all those parents out there who dont have that support? I wanted to give back and thats why I started the podcast. She says the episodes in which parents share their stories are the most eye-opening. Dr Kessel said: You feel so alone when youre going through this because often you wont have any other parents who are experiencing it until you get to a specialist school setting. When you hear other peoples stories, it resonates and you can have a cry together. You realise youre not alone. Dr Kessel is also working on a pilot with an education consultant and a group of year 3 children to bring in self-directed learning and learning through play and technology in a weekly session. She has become a governor at Headington School in Oxford where she hopes to learn more about education from this high- performing school while bringing her expertise on wellbeing and safeguarding to the table. She believes that mainstream schools need to modernise the ways that they teach for the benefit of both neurodiverse and neurotypical children. Dr Kessel said: The population in a mainstream school, if you look at neurodiversity as a collective whole, is going to be about 30 per cent, so when do we start teaching towards neurodiverse kids instead of just neurotypical kids, who are not succeeding in education either? Is education working right now? Is it fit for anyone? Are our neurodiverse kids the canaries in the coalmine saying, I dont want to be forced to memorise stuff, this isnt learning? Things need to change. The way you teach neurodiverse kids is more immersive, more sensory, more play-like. Education started in the 1800s. It was really designed not based on learning principles but to make the children comply and be obedient. Kids learn by play and play gets pretty much cut out after year 1. I think we need a revolution and I hope to be part of that change. This is my new passion and Alexandra has inspired me to do this. What is more important than helping our children start life excited about learning? There are so many educators who are excited and engaged, we just need to take the handcuffs off them and the budgetary restraints. I look forward to a world where we dont have to define ourselves. We are all different and there shouldnt be stigma and schools should get enough budget to teach all their kids differently. Oxfordshire County Council said it couldnt comment on individual cases. But a spokesman said: When a young person requires additional support for their special educational needs, the process of an Education Health Care Needs Assessment is undertaken. We must, in compiling that assessment with our partners, ensure that all local options are explored as we have a duty to meet the outcomes of the child in the most cost-effective way. The process can, in some cases, take longer than the statutory timescale and we are continuing to improve this. To support the availability of suitable places, the first of our new special schools is scheduled to open in Oxfordshire in January. Mumbai, Maharashtra, India- Business Wire India Small Finance Banks, such as AU Small Finance Bank, are emerging as powerful agents of change, revolutionizing banking services in rural and semi-urban areas. By prioritizing increased access to banking services, designing tailored products and services, simplifying processes through technology, promoting financial literacy and inclusion, and supporting microfinance and small businesses. Small Finance Banks are transforming the banking landscape and empowering individuals and communities. Access to banking services plays a crucial role in promoting economic growth and ensuring financial inclusivity. While historically banks have focused on urban areas, millions of people in rural and semi-urban areas have been left underserved. This is where Small Finance Banks have stepped in, revolutionizing banking services and bringing financial opportunities to previously unbanked and underbanked populations. Small Finance Banks, a specialized category of banks established under the guidelines of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), have been instrumental in driving financial inclusion and empowering individuals and communities. These banks prioritize financial inclusion by serving the banking needs of underserved and unbanked populations, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. The impact of Small Finance Banks in rural and semi-urban areas is significant and transformative. Here are some of the ways in which Small Finance Banks are revolutionizing banking services: Increasing Access : Small Finance Banks prioritize expanding banking services in underserved areas, including remote locations. By strategically establishing branches and banking outlets, these banks ensure that individuals and businesses in rural and semi-urban areas have convenient access to basic banking services. They bridge the banking gap and promote financial inclusion in these areas. : Small Finance Banks prioritize expanding banking services in underserved areas, including remote locations. By strategically establishing branches and banking outlets, these banks ensure that individuals and businesses in rural and semi-urban areas have convenient access to basic banking services. They bridge the banking gap and promote financial inclusion in these areas. Tailored Products and Services : Small Finance Banks, including leading institutions like AU Small Finance Bank, understand the unique requirements of the communities they serve. They design products and services that cater specifically to the needs of these populations. Whether it's customized savings account, loans, or investment options, Small Finance Banks provide financial solutions that align with the financial goals and aspirations of their customers. With a commitment to financial inclusion, AU Small Finance Bank offers a range of tailored products to meet the diverse needs of individuals and businesses in rural and semi-urban areas, ensuring that they have access to the right financial tools for their growth and prosperity. : Small Finance Banks, including leading institutions like AU Small Finance Bank, understand the unique requirements of the communities they serve. They design products and services that cater specifically to the needs of these populations. Whether it's customized savings account, loans, or investment options, Small Finance Banks provide financial solutions that align with the financial goals and aspirations of their customers. With a commitment to financial inclusion, AU Small Finance Bank offers a range of tailored products to meet the diverse needs of individuals and businesses in rural and semi-urban areas, ensuring that they have access to the right financial tools for their growth and prosperity. Simplified Processes : Small Finance Banks have simplified the account opening and transaction processes, making banking more accessible to individuals with limited banking experience. They have embraced technology and digital banking solutions, allowing customers to open accounts, transfer funds, and perform various banking transactions conveniently from their smartphones or through online banking portals. This digitization has significantly reduced the time and effort required for banking operations, providing a seamless and efficient experience for customers. : Small Finance Banks have simplified the account opening and transaction processes, making banking more accessible to individuals with limited banking experience. They have embraced technology and digital banking solutions, allowing customers to open accounts, transfer funds, and perform various banking transactions conveniently from their smartphones or through online banking portals. This digitization has significantly reduced the time and effort required for banking operations, providing a seamless and efficient experience for customers. Financial Literacy and Inclusion : Small Finance Banks recognize the importance of financial literacy and inclusion in driving sustainable development. They actively engage with the communities they serve, conducting financial literacy programs and awareness campaigns to educate individuals about the benefits of formal banking, saving, and responsible financial management. By promoting financial literacy, Small Finance Banks empower individuals to make sound financial decisions and improve their overall economic well-being. : Small Finance Banks recognize the importance of financial literacy and inclusion in driving sustainable development. They actively engage with the communities they serve, conducting financial literacy programs and awareness campaigns to educate individuals about the benefits of formal banking, saving, and responsible financial management. By promoting financial literacy, Small Finance Banks empower individuals to make sound financial decisions and improve their overall economic well-being. Support to Small Businesses : Small Finance Banks, including prominent players like AU Small Finance Bank, provide support to small business units, micro and small industries, low-income households, and the unorganized sector. They offer credit facilities, business loans, and other financial products tailored to the specific needs of these segments, enabling them to grow their businesses and improve their economic prospects. AU Small Finance Bank, with its deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by small businesses and low-income households, plays a crucial role in empowering these individuals and fueling economic growth in rural and semi-urban areas. : Small Finance Banks, including prominent players like AU Small Finance Bank, provide support to small business units, micro and small industries, low-income households, and the unorganized sector. They offer credit facilities, business loans, and other financial products tailored to the specific needs of these segments, enabling them to grow their businesses and improve their economic prospects. AU Small Finance Bank, with its deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by small businesses and low-income households, plays a crucial role in empowering these individuals and fueling economic growth in rural and semi-urban areas. Digital Banking Solutions: Small Finance Banks leverage technology to overcome infrastructure challenges. They leverage digital technologies to offer convenient and efficient banking services. They provide mobile banking apps, online banking platforms, and digital payment solutions, allowing customers to access their accounts, transfer funds, and conduct transactions with ease, regardless of their location. Through their innovative approach and commitment to the needs of their customers, Small Finance Banks are instrumental in creating a more inclusive and financially empowered society. While they play a crucial role in driving financial inclusion, bridging the banking gap, and fostering economic growth in previously underserved areas, they are not limited to serving only a limited segment of population. Many urban customers are also benefiting from the competitive rates and the wide range of products offered by the Small Finance Bank. Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) carried out simultaneous raids at 16 different locations in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka on Wednesday as part of the agencys ongoing investigations into terror funding and its links to radical organisations, officials said. The properties that were raided included several houses, shops, and a hospital. (Representative Image) The properties targeted in the raids are reported to be of activists associated with the now-banned Popular Front of India (PFI). Senior officials familiar with the matter said that NIA had received credible inputs suggesting that funds from Gulf countries were being channelled into Karnataka to support radical organisations engaged in terror-related activities. The search operations, which began at 4am on Wednesday, were carried out in various areas including the city, Bantwal, Uppinangady, Venur, and Belthangady. The properties that were raided included several houses, shops, and a hospital. According to officials, NIA officials were able to recover digital evidence related to money transactions, which will be crucial in unravelling the financial network supporting these unlawful activities. This is not the first time that the NIA has conducted searches in Dakshina Kannada district regarding terror-related activities. In March, the agency initiated similar operations to identify the sources of funding for such activities. These investigations are also linked to a case involving the PFIs alleged plot to attack Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a rally in Bihar on July 12, 2022. The case was initially registered on July 12, 2022 at police station Phulwari Sharif, district Patna, Bihar and re-registered by the NIA on July 22, 2022. NIA filed a charge sheet against four accused on January 7. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Dakshina Kannada district minority cell of the Congress has demanded a reinvestigation by a special investigation team (SIT) into the murders over "communal" enmity in the district last year. Masood of Kalenja in Bellare, Mohammed Fazil from Mangalapete in Surathkal and Abdul Jaleel of Katipalla were murdered last year allegedly by right wing Hindu activists. (File) In a letter to Chief Minister Siddramaiah through Karnataka Assembly Speaker U T Khader, who represents Mangaluru, minority cell president K K Shahul Hameed said the culprits behind the murders of three Muslim youths should be charged under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), after a proper reinvestigation. Hameed said all communal murders in the district should be reinvestigated and a SIT should be formed for the purpose. Compensation should be provided to the relatives of the Muslim youths on the lines of the financial support extended to the family of slain BJP youth wing leader Praveen Nettaru, he said. Welcoming the decision to reinstate Nettarus wife in the government job, he said the kin of the families of the slain Masood, Fazil and Abdul Jaleel in the district should also be provided with jobs. The family members of the three victims have also demanded compensation, saying the previous BJP government had shown discrimination towards the families of Muslim youths who were murdered over communal enmity. Masood of Kalenja in Bellare, Mohammed Fazil from Mangalapete in Surathkal and Abdul Jaleel of Katipalla were murdered last year allegedly by right wing Hindu activists. Masood was attacked at Kalenja in Bellare, a week before the murder of Nettaru on July 26, 2022. He succumbed to injuries on July 21. The then Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai had visited Nettaru's residence on July 28. On the same day Mohammed Fazil was fatally attacked in Surathkal. Abdul Jaleel was hacked to death in Krishnapura, Katipalla in Surathkal on December 24, 2022. Fazil's mother Saramma said representatives of the previous government had not visited their houses nor did they provide any compensation. Fazils father Umar Farook said his son was murdered to avenge the death of Nettaru and that he is waiting to get justice for him. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Wednesday laid the foundation stone of Devi Lok at Vijayasan Devi temple at Salkanpur in Sehore on the lines of Mahakal Lok in Ujjain. (Twitter/@ChouhanShivraj) The project is estimated to cost over Rs.200 crore. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state government has announced to develop at least half a dozen religious places in Madhya Pradesh. In a first, Mahakal Lok has been developed at Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, in Ujjain. It was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2022. At the programme, Chouhan said, The decision of developing Devi Lok was taken as Goddess inspired me to do so. It will be one of its kind where devotees will learn everything about Goddesses. Nine forms of Goddess will be established with 64 murals of Yogini. Also Read: Uttarakhand police chief asks pilgrims to stagger visit to Char Dham temples to reduce rush Commenting on the promotion of religion and culture, the CM said many people feel that the work of the government is only to build roads, bridges, hospitals, and make arrangements for water. Why did Shivraj start building the temple? Is it the job of the government or not? To promote our religion and our culture... grand temples should be built and may the goddess bless everyone. If the temple is built then the youth will be inclined towards religion, he said. In Devi Lok, all the stories of goddesses will be described in the scriptures. An action plan of more than 211 crore has been prepared for the construction of Devi Lok. Along with this, development and construction works are being done for the convenience of the devotees coming here. The CM said if requires more funds will be released for the Devi Lok. Requesting anonymity, an officer of the tourism and culture department said, The cost of the project will increase as we will not install murals made of Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP) after recent controversy over tumbling of the FRP statues due to gusty wind at Mahakal Lok. Meanwhile, on Sunday, due to strong winds and the six statues of Saptarishi at Mahakal Lok in Ujjain were destroyed. The opposition accused the BJP-led state government of corruption and demanded a high-level inquiry. : Panic spread in the area after an armed miscreant allegedly opened fire outside the house of a driver in Talwandi village in the wee hours on Wednesday and attacked the family members when they tried to confront the intruder while he was trying the enter the house. Police said that the house was targeted by the accused as it is located at a distance from other homes in the locality. (HT Photo) Three rounds of bullets were fired by an unidentified person as he was trying to enter the house of Balwinder Singh, who works as a tractor-trolley driver and transports construction material to support the family. Station house officer inspector Jagdev Singh said that a case under section 459 (grievous hurt caused whilst committing lurking house-trespass or house-breaking) of the Indian Penal Code and relevant sections of the Arms Act and Animal Act has been registered against the accused. As the attacker tried to enter the house at 3.30 am, the dog started barking at the accused after which he opened fire at the animal out of fear. The bullets hit the dog leaving him with grievous injuries on its neck. On hearing the gunshots, members of the family, including Balwinder, his wife and their teenaged daughter, came out of the house and tried to confront the intruder. Balwinder was attacked by the accused with the back of a revolver, leaving him with injuries on his face. During the scuffle, the revolver and the accuseds bag fell on the floor and he was able to flee from the spot. He also left his motorcycle which he had stolen behind, police said. The accuseds bag also contained his mobile phone which was defunct, police said, adding that all evidence including the revolver is being investigated to ascertain his identity. The family members shouted for help on seeing the intruder after which people living in the neighbouringhood woke up. The attacker panicked and escaped the scene, police said. Police said that the house was targeted by the accused as it is located at a distance from other homes in the locality. Balwinder was taken to civil hospital for treatment and medical examination. Balwinder lives in the village along with his family, including his wife and teenaged daughter. On the night of the incident, a relative of the family was also staying with them. Deputy commissioner of police (investigation) Harmeet Singh Hundal said that the incident took place at 3:30 am on Wednesday when all the members of the family were sleeping. The attacker was reportedly trying to enter the house with the motive of conducting theft, he said. After the members of the family informed the police about the incident, senior police officials including the police commissioner reached the spot for inspection. Police said that the investigation into the matter has been initiated, and the CCTV cameras in the area and public places are being scanned to ascertain the identity of the accused. Whether the accused was known to the family or had any old rivalry is being verified along with other angles of the case, police said. On May 22, a retired assistant sub-inspector Kuldeep Singh, 65, his wife Paramjeet Kaur, 60, and son Gurwinder Singh alias Pali Grewal, 30, were found dead in their house in Noorpur Bet village of Ladhowal area. The victims were allegedly bludgeoned to death with blunt weapons such as iron rods, pipes and other tools. Police are yet to zero in on the culprits and the motive behind the crime. Air force authorities will be submitting a proposal for the expansion of the Indian Air Force Heritage Centre in Sector 18, under Phase 3, within 10 days. The new wing of IAF Heritage Centre will come up in an adjoining hall, measuring around 13,000 square feet. It will feature more technology-based and electronic systems, more stimulators and aero engines. (HT File Photo) This was discussed during a meeting between officers of the air force and UT administration on Wednesday. A UT official said Phase 3 will be developed as Indian Air Force Aerospace and Technical Centre and is expected to be ready in six months. The project has already been cleared by the IAF Headquarters. Union defence minister Rajnath Singh had inaugurated the first two phases on May 8. Three weeks later, the centre has seen a footfall of nearly 6,000 visitors. The new wing will come up in an adjoining hall, measuring around 13,000 square feet. It will feature more technology-based and electronic systems, more stimulators and aero engines. Giving details, a senior IAF officer said, Phase 1 of the centre, set up in a 15,000 square feet hall, focuses on the air force history and legends. As part of Phase 2, GNAT aircraft were displayed at the light point outside the centre. The upcoming Phase 3 will comprise completely technology driven features and experiences to inspire youngsters to join the air force. The air force has already handed over Phases 1 and 2 to the UT tourism department that is tasked with maintaining it. : Police teams arrested two Jharkhand residents and recovered 3.6kg opium from their possession in separate cases, police said on Wednesday. A case under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act has been registered against the accused. (Representational Photo) In the first case, police arrested Deepak Singh of Srai Kalan Khaswa district in Jharkhand and seized 2.6kg of opium from his possession, police said, adding the accused was arrested by the police patrolling teams near Gill village. Inspector Gurpreet Singh said that during investigation, the accused will be questioned about the whereabouts of his associates and to whom he was going to deliver the contraband. He said that a case under section 18-61-85 of the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act has been registered against the accused at Sadar police station. In another case, Khanna police arrested Bisnu Shankar of Chatra district in Jharkhand and recovering 1kg opium from his possession. Police said that the accused was arrested near Amloh Chowk by police patrolling teams. The accused was carrying a bag from which the contraband was recovered. Sub-inspector Jagtar Singh said that a case under section 18-61-85 of the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act has been registered against the accused at Khanna city-2 police station. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Opposing the centralised admission portal, staff of 20 private unaided colleges in the city, staged a protest outside their institutions and boycotted the duties for university examinations. Private college unions have already announced boycott of university exams, which were scheduled for this week. (Manish/ HT Photo) The teachers gathered outside the colleges to express their dissent. On Wednesday, the Panjab University postponed exams in view of the protest. Private college unions have already announced boycott of university exams, which were scheduled for this week. The teachers started protests outside the colleges, which will continue till June 3. There are approximately 22 private unaided colleges in Ludhiana, whose managements are opposing the centralised admissions portal announced by the state government. During a press conference, held at Guru Nanak Khalsa College for Women (GNKCW) in Ludhiana on Wednesday, Gurvinder Singh Sarna, the general secretary of GNKCW and a member of the Joint Action Committee (JAC), which consists of the Management Federation of Unaided Colleges, principals association, and PCCTU, announced a complete boycott of university examinations starting from May 31. The JAC members expressed concerns about the centralised admission portal and its adverse impact on higher education in Punjab. They criticised government for not addressing the demands of both aided and unaided colleges, which has led to exam boycott. The JAC has also demanded reinstatement of the original 95% deficit grant-in-aid scheme for all teachers in colleges. Various organisations representatives have decided to jointly protest to get this demand fulfilled. The centralised admission portal aims to allow students across the state to apply for admission to any college based on merit, eliminating the need for physical visits and separate admission forms. The portal is integrated with other government digital platforms such as Digilocker and E-Sewa. SM Sharma, co-ordinator of JAC, expressed concern that the centralised admission portal infringes upon the autonomy of non-government colleges. The members added, The higher education sector in the state is already facing a severe financial crisis, and this move, implemented without any consultation with college administrations, will only worsen the situation. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON : Posing as CBI officials, two Rajasthan residents, including a woman, allegedly tried to extort 3 lakh from a Basant Nagar resident on the pretext of resolving a fake court case against him. The duo was also carrying fake identity proofs and fake court orders. (HT Photo) The accused, identified as Kanta Devi, 48, Gopal, 57, of Jaipur were arrested on Wednesday. The duo was also carrying fake identity proofs and fake court orders. The residents of the Basant Nagar area informed the police after the accused, who posed as CBI officials, sought 3 lakh for resolving a police case. They knocked on the doors of Bahadur Singh and showed fake warrants in a murder case. While Bahadur Singh was not in the city, they demanded 3 lakh from his relatives to resolve the case. After the neighbours found their activities to be suspicious, they raised the alarm and called the police. The accused confessed in front of the neighbours that they were sent by someone else to the address and they do not personally know the resident, police said. The neighbours said that the accused threatened that the family would be in trouble if they failed to give them money. As per neighbours, Bahadur was in a government job and had recently shifted abroad. They said that the accused had also blackmailed him in the past. Sub-inspector Kulbir Singh said that a case under sections 384 (extortion), 419 (personation), 465 (forgery), 466 (using forged documents as genuine), 468 (forgery for the purpose of cheating), 506 (criminal intimidation), 120B (punishment for criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code has been registered against the accused at Daba Police station. He said that the accused will be produced before the court on Thursday. He said that police are tracing their associates and checking their call records. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Two days after a 45-year-old property dealer was found dead with a gunshot wound in the armpit at his house in Sector 11 on Monday, police have booked a sarpanch for abetment to suicide. On Monday, the deceaseds wife had found him lying dead on the bed without clothes and with a gunshot injury in the armpit. No suicide note was recovered from the house. (Getty image) Sant Ram, alias Santu, sarpanch of Busana village in Gohana tehsil, Sonepat, Haryana, was booked on the complaint of the father of the deceased, who hails from Hisar. On Monday, the deceaseds wife had found him lying dead on the bed without clothes and with a gunshot injury in the armpit. No suicide note was recovered from the house, a government accommodation allotted to his wife, who is working as a superintendent in the office of the Haryana DGP. The woman had rushed home from work after being alerted by neighbours about the sound of a gunshot. The deceaseds father, aged 75, told the police that his son was into property dealing and had purchased a flat in Peer Muchalla in Zirakpur. He said his son had plans to shift to the flat after his wifes retirement. The complainant said around a year ago, his son had told him that his friend, Santram, the sarpanch of Busana village, had fraudulently got the flat transferred to his wifes name, and he was neither paying money for the flat nor returning it. The fraud had left his son depressed and through a phone call on May 29, he had even shared that Santram was not talking to him. Later in the afternoon, he received a call from his nephew that his son had shot himself with his licensed pistol, the father submitted. On his complaint, police have booked Santram under Section 306 (abetment to suicide) of the Indian Penal Code at the Sector 5 police station. No arrest has been made so far. The deceased is survived by his father, his wife and two children, a 22-year-old son and a 20-year-old daughter. A fresh spell of rain along with thunderstorms lashed the parts of the national capital in the wee hours of Wednesday, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a 'yellow' alert and warned of traffic disruptions and inundation of low-lying areas due to rains. The IMD had earlier predicted high-speed stormy winds, rainfall, to prevail in Delhi-NCR. (Twitter/ ANI) Partly cloudy sky with light rain or thundershowers are expected during the day. The minimum temperature on Wednesday settled at 20.5 degrees Celsius, six notches below season's average, whereas the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 35 degrees Celsius, according to a bulletin of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Thunderstorm/ Duststorm with light to moderate intensity rain and gusty winds with speed of 40-60 kmph would occur over and adjoining areas of entire Delhi ( Safdarjung, Lodi Road, IGI Airport), NCR region including Loni Dehat, Hindon AF Station, Bahadurgarh, Ghaziabad, Indirapuram, Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad, Manesar, Ballabhgarh, IMD tweeted. IMD further informed that some parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan will witness light-to-moderate showers during the day. "Baraut, Bagpat (UP), Pilani, Bhiwari, Tizara and Khairthal (Rajasthan) will also experience light-to-moderate intensity rainfall in the next couple of hours," the IMD added. The IMD had earlier predicted high-speed stormy winds, rainfall, to prevail in Delhi-NCR with no heatwaves until May 30 under the influence of a western disturbance. Regarding monsoon, the weather agency predicted that rainfall would remain at 'below normal' levels all over India during the entire June. States including Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Odisha, as well as vast swathes of northern India will witness above-normal temperatures, it added. In June, the rainfall all over India will be below 92%, which is below normal, RK Jenamani, a weather scientist with the IMD, told ANI. Meanwhile, the weather agency said that the monsoon is likely to make an onset in Bihar on June 13-14 and dry weather will continue in the state in the next five days. (With inputs from agencies) Delhi Police took Sahil, who is accused of brutally murdering a 16-year-old girl, to north-west Delhis Shahbad Dairy where the crime took place early on Wednesday morning in order to recreate the sequence of events, officers said. People gathered outside the residence of of the 16-year-old girl who was allegedly stabbed to death by a man on Sunday at Shahbad Dairy, in New Delhi on Tuesday. (Sanchit Khanna/HT)(HT_PRINT) The investigators said that Sahil was taken to the crime scene inside a narrow alley in the area around 3am on Wednesday. The suspect was taken there early morning due to security reasons since the area is crowded. The police team sought information from Sahil to understand the sequence of events leading to the murde, an investigator said asking not to be named. The officer said that the police were yet to recover the weapon (a knife) with which the accused killed the girl. Sahil is trying to mislead us by giving contradictory statements. We took him to several places, including the deserted area around Rithala Metro Station, where he allegedly threw the knife. However, nothing was found there. We are still interrogating him as the weapon is a vital evidence, the officer added. When asked if the police will seek narco test on the accused, the officer said that there was no need for such tests in cases like this. Sahil stabbed the girl at least 16 times and then bludgeoned her with a stone slab on Sunday night even as the crime was captured on a CCTV camera. Meanwhile, the police have also issued summons to the friends of 16-year-old victim. The police said that they have been asked to join the investigation. Special commissioner of police (law and order) Dependra Pathak said that three friends of the deceased have been asked to join the investigation. Their statements are being recorded. One of them told the investigators that the deceased had told him that Sahil was pestering her. He also said that after meeting the victim on Saturday, he, along with his girlfriend and the victim, went to meet Sahil. He said they warned Sahil not to bother the girl. He further said that when he got the news about the incident, he immediately went to the spot and helped the police in putting the body into the ambulance, he said. Pathak said the police have also recorded the statements of the two girls. Weve also summoned the former boyfriend of the victim to join the investigation. Currently, he is in Jaunpur (Uttar Pradesh). He will join the probe in a day or two, he said. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday approved an ex-gratia amount of 10 lakh for the victims family. Kejriwal tweeted, Have approved and sent the file to Honble LG for supporting the family of the victim with an amount of 10 lakhs. We stand with her family. Will support them in every possible way. The chief minister announced the ex-gratia on Tuesday. Officials said the file has been forwarded to the Lieutenant Governor (LG) for further action. LG secretariat officials did not comment on the development. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON LUCKNOW Outgoing Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is facing sexual harassment charges levelled by women wrestlers, on Wednesday said he will hang himself even if a single allegation was proved against him. Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh addresses a public meeting, in Barabanki on Wednesday. (ANI Photo) I am ready to accept any punishment. If a single allegation against me is proven, I will hang myself, Singh said addressing a public rally in UPs Barabanki, ahead of his rally at Ayodhyas Ram Katha Park on June 5 in support of his claim. He challenged the protesting wrestlers to present any evidence against him on sexual harassment charges. If you (wrestlers) have any evidence, present it in the court and I am ready to accept any punishment, Singh said. He also took a jibe at wrestlers for announcing to immerse their medals in Ganga as a mark of their protest against him. Its been four months and they want me to be hanged. The government is not hanging me thats why they gathered at Haridwar on Tuesday and threatened to immerse their medals in the Ganga. This will not bring the sentence that they want for me, it is all emotional drama, he said. The matter is under investigation by the Delhi Police. If theres any truth to the charges levelled against me by the wrestlers during the last four months, an arrest will be made, added Singh. Olympians Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat have been demanding the removal and arrest of the WFI president over allegations of sexual harassment. An FIR was filed under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 147, 149, 186, 188, 332, 353, Section 3 of the PDPP Act, said Delhi Police. On Tuesday, the international governing body for wrestlers, United World Wrestling (UWW), condemned the Delhi Police action against the wrestlers on Sunday, when they were detained while marching towards the newly constructed Parliament and threatened to suspend the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), if its pending elections were not held within the stipulated time. Meanwhile, a PTI report added that the Delhi Police on Wednesday said it had not found sufficient evidence to prove women wrestlers allegations of sexual harassment against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and to arrest him. The police will submit a report in court within 15 days, a senior official said. During the investigation so far, the police have not found sufficient evidence to arrest the WFI chief. There is also no supportive evidence to prove their (wrestlers) claim. A report will be submitted in court within 15 days, which could be in the form of a charge sheet or final report, the officer said. The Uttar Pradesh unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch a month-long public contact campaign (Maha Jansampark), holding a number of programmes from June 1 to June 30. The aim of the drive is to brief people about the policies and achievements of the Narendra Modi government that completed nine years on Tuesday. For representation only (HT File Photo) Making an announcement at a press conference, here, on Wednesday, state BJP president, Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary, said that the party had designed events for all the 80 Lok Sabha constituencies, 403 Vidhan Sabha constituencies and 1,74,359 booths. We have divided the 80 Lok Sabha constituencies into 21 clusters with a view to holding various programmes there between June 1 and June 20 with senior Union, state government ministers and party leaders set to participate in them, he said. The programmes to be organised at the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha levels include massive public meetings, and conferences of beneficiaries, traders and intellectuals and meeting 1,000 prominent people in each Lok Sabha constituency. BJPs frontal bodies will also hold a joint conference in each Lok Sabha constituency. The party will launch a door-to-door campaign to reach out to people under all the booths from June 21 to June 30, Chaudhary said. Replying to a question, he said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, home minister Amit Shah, defence minister Rajnath Singh, national highway and transport minister Niti Gadkari besides party president JP Nadda had been urged to attend public meetings in the state. The programme being seen as a strategy to reach out to the electorate before the Lok Sabha elections next year, is a part of the month-long nationwide public Maha Jansampark campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Rajasthan on Wednesday. A cockroach was found in the food served in the mess of a Lucknow University hostel on Tuesday night. A cockroach in serving spoon at Law hostel of LU (Sourced) An undergraduate law student at Homi J Bhabha Hostel spotted it on the serving spoon and reported the matter to the mess owner. University officials said a notice was served to the owner of the mess and he has been warned of strict action if an incident like this happens in the future. The incident happened at the new campus hostel meant for law students, where a student uploaded a picture of the serving spoon with a cockroach on Twitter. The student also complained to the hostel warden. The quality of food at Lucknow University continues to deteriorate despite repeated complaints, the inmates alleged. One of the inmates clicked the photo and posted it on his Twitter account. He tagged university vice-chancellor Prof Alok Kumar Rai and dean students welfare, Poonam Tandon, to draw their attention, said a group of students. The inmate alleged that when he showed the cockroach to the mess staff, they tried to cover up the whole thing. Another inmate wrote: Please take cognizance of this problem, now the quality of the mess can be improved easily as the camera surveillance system is installed properly. One hostel inmate said, This is not happening for the first time. Earlier, in another hostel, cockroaches and worms were found in meals. I was also served a roti one day, which had a hair in it. I took the matter to the mess owner and the issue was just ignored. Recently, moss in the water tank used to supply drinking water to the students was seen. The students took pictures and uploaded them to social media that went viral. Chief hostel provost Anoop Kumar Singh said the students had brought it to his knowledge after which the mess owner was warned of strict action. LUCKNOW Four members of a family, including two children, were killed in the wee hours of Wednesday after being struck and dragged by an overspeeding SUV for 100 metres near the Gulachin temple at Kursi road in Vikas Nagar area of Lucknow, said police. The SUV allegedly hit the scooty, after which the couple and their two children got stuck under the car. (Pic for representation) The accused, a property dealer, had consumed alcohol after office hours and was driving back home in an inebriated state when the incident happened. He was arrested on Wednesday afternoon with the help of CCTV footage. The deceased were identified as Ram Singh, 35, his wife Gyan Devi, 32, and their two children - Raj Sharma, 13, and Ansh Sharma, 8 hailing from Sitapur. After the accident, they were taken to the Trauma Centre at King Georges Medical University (KGMU) where they were declared dead by doctors. The SUV allegedly hit the scooty, after which the couple and their two children got stuck under the car. But, the car driver didnt stop the vehicle and the victims were dragged for around 100 metres, said police. The cops identified the victims with the help of the scootys registration number and mobile phone numbers, said inspector Shivanand Mishra of Vikas Nagar police station. Chief minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief over the loss of lives in the accident. A tweet in Hindi from the CM office read: CM Yogi has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the road accident in Lucknow. Wishing peace to the souls of the departedthe CM has expressed condolences to the bereaved families. On the complaint of Manish Singh, the deceaseds brother, an FIR was registered against the driver of the vehicle under IPC sections 304, 279 and 427 at the Vikas Nagar police station, said Quasim Abidi, DCP (North). The accused Rajendra Pal, 35, a property dealer whose office is in BKT area, was arrested from Mama Chauraha in Aliganj with the help of CCTV footage and has been sent to judicial custody. He is a resident of Talkatora-Rajajipuram, he said. The four people were returning from Aliganj Purana Hanuman Mandir. Ram Singh was working in a tent house in Aliganj for the last 12 years and used to live here with his family. We were in Sitapur when we were informed about the accident by the police, said Ram Singhs brother. The family court at Bandra has allowed a man, who is accused of sexually abusing his minor daughters, to virtually meet the girls residing in the United States with his estranged wife. HT Image It is noticed by the courts worldwide that the litigating parents can lie to any extent to obtain suitable orders (from courts). At this stage, there is no concrete or substantial piece of evidence or information which confirms that there was sexual abuse by the petitioner upon his daughters, principal judge Swati Chauhan said while hearing the mans plea last week. The court has, however, asked the man to be cautious while resuming communication with his daughters and has instructed counsellors to remain present at both ends during the videoconferencing. The petitioner should not forget that he is under the scanner for allegations of sexually abusing his daughters. From the available record, the daughters are apprehensive and fearful of him. They are not willing to talk to him, even virtually. In such circumstances, the petitioner should adopt a slow and patient approach, the court said, adding there should be a therapeutic reunification module to unite the family. The principal judge further said the law in India and in the US acknowledges that tutoring a child to make false allegations of sexual abuse is equally abusive to the child and hence the strained relationship between the father and the daughters is required to be normalised gradually through counselling sessions. The couple both IT professionals had moved to the US soon after their marriage in June 2003. In 2015, the family came to India after the husband got a job in a Mumbai-based multinational company. In early February 2021, wife left for her mothers place and on February 16 told him that she did not want to stay with him, and a month-and-a-half later informed him that she had shifted back to the US along with their daughters. The husband then filed a plea through his lawyer Anagha Nimkar alleging that his wife had denied him virtual access to their daughters on the pretext of sexual abuse allegations. The woman claimed that she first came to know about the sexual abuse in February 2021. The family court, however, questioned her why she did not act immediately, as a reasonable and prudent mother would do and did not file any complaint, nor did she take the girls for a medical examination. The absence of mention of sexual abuse can be noticed in the letter written by the respondent (wife) to the US counsellor prior to leaving India. The respondent has sought permission to travel to the US for a better life, better support in education and special needs and therapies for her elder daughter. But there is no mention of sexual abuse in the said letter, the court said, pointing out that the allegations of sexual abuse surfaced only after she went back to the US and hired a lawyer to fight her case. The court also took note of the girls health condition. While the younger one, 10, is suffering from a life-threatening food allergy, the 14-year-old elder daughter has low muscle tone and is diagnosed with sensory integration disorder. Mumbai Chief minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday announced the renaming of Ahmednagar district in western Maharashtra after Ahilya Devi Holkar, a prominent 18th-century ruler of the Malwa kingdom. The announcement was made at an event held to celebrate Ahilya Devis 298th birth anniversary in Ahmednagar. Govt to rename Ahmednagar district after Ahilya Devi Holkar The governments pronouncement came days after a controversy erupted over the removal of Ahilya Devis and social reformer Savitribai Phules statues from Maharashtra Sadan, the state guest house in New Delhi. The Shinde-Fadnavis government shifted the statues out temporarily to celebrate the birth anniversary of Hindutva ideologue V D Savarkar on May 28, and in doing so had invited a barrage of criticism. There were public protests at various places and the opposition parties sought an apology from the government. Just three days later, Shinde declared at the function that the government had decided to rename Ahmednagar Ahilya Nagar. Her accomplishments were as vast as the Himalayas, he said in his speech. By giving her name to the district, the honour of the latter has also been increased to that level. Shinde chose to justify the decision by saying that they were all indebted to the land on which Ahilya Devi took birth. The decision was first announced by Shindes deputy Devendra Fadnavis, who made his speech just before the chief minister. He was responding to the renaming demand made by BJP leaders such as Ram Shinde and Gopichand Padalkar. Soon after that, state medical education minister Girish Mahajan also announced that the government would rename the Government Medical College and General Hospital, Baramati, after her. A government resolution to this effect was also issued by the medical education and drugs department. Born on May 31, 1725, in the village of Chondi in Jamkhed, Ahmednagar, Maharani Ahilya Devi Holkar is regarded as one of the finest female rulers in Indian history. As a prominent ruler of the Malwa kingdom and part of the Maratha Holkar clan, she spread the message of dharma and promoted industrialisation in the 18th century. As a tribute to the ruler, Indores domestic airport has been named Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport. The Indore university too was renamed Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya. The Maharashtra Congress welcomed the decision but said that the move was purely political with one eye on the forthcoming elections. We welcome the decision but there is not a single minister in the state ministerial council who is inspired by Ahilyabai Holkars ideology and her ideas, said Atul Londhe, chief spokesperson, state Congress. Their decision is born out of something quite different. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON BHIWANDI: Stormy weather conditions with high velocity winds and rain lashed parts of Padgha-Borivali rural stretch in Bhiwandi in Thane district on Tuesday late afternoon, uprooting trees, damaging roofs of more than 500 homes and the massive shed of marriage hall. Over 500 homes were damaged in villages around Padgha in rural parts of Bhiwandi in Thane district on Tuesday afternoon after heavy winds and rain lashed the area. (HT PHOTO) Official sources said stormy conditions developed in villages around Padgha around 3 pm disrupting normal life in the rural parts of Bhiwandi taluka. In Borivli village, wedding celebrations in a Gujjar community marriage were disrupted when the roof of a marriage hall collapsed due to high winds and rain leading to several people suffering minor injuries. They were given first aid at a nearby clinic and discharged, officials said. Wind velocity began rising late afternoon leading to uprooting of several trees, electric poles, and sending the roofs of several houses flying. After learning of the weather conditions, The Bhiwandi administration despatched ambulances and police personnel to the area. Padgha police officials said that they received information about the collapse of the shed of the Gujjar marriage hall collapsed and they rushed to the spot. They said no no casualties were reported. A resident said, Within 20 minutes, a heavy storm and rainfall developed and caused destruction. Many houses were damaged, and rain lashed homes where roofs were damaged. Homes were damaged when high velocity winds and rain lashed the area in Wafale village in rural parts of Bhiwandi in Thane district on Tuesday (HT PHOTO) Speaking to HT, Adhik Patil, Tahsildar, Bhiwandi said, We have conducted panchnama of damages and our survey revealed that there were 589 houses with damaged roofs across villages like Padgha, Borivli-Rahur, Wafale, Dalepada, and Angaon due to the storm. Ten people suffered minor injuries in Borivli village. At least 25 houses and their sheds were badly damaged due to the storm. The 25 families have been temporarily shifted to the Urdu school in Borivli village for their safety. He said the final report of the survey will be submitted to the Thane Collector. The Regional Meterological Centre, Mumbai had issued a warning on Monday indicating that some parts of Maharashtra were likely to experience rain accompanied by thunder in the next five days, but Thane and Palghar districts were excluded from the prediction. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON LUCKNOW In a fresh controversy, admissions to several private nursing institutes has come under scanner due to allegations that over 100 candidates were admitted to the colleges in violation of rules. Taking cognisance, the directorate of medical education has launched a probe into the matter and demanded details of all candidates given admission in the present academic session. The colleges need to upload the list of candidates. (HT Photo) The issue is related to admission of candidates who joined the institutes but their data was not uploaded to the portal. The mistake was at colleges end. We gave them the benefit of doubt by considering it to be their first mistake and got the student data updated, said Kinjal Singh, director general, medical education, Uttar Pradesh. According to reports, some colleges took admission of candidates even after the last date allotted for admissions while several other colleges took admissions of candidates who didnt even appear in the entrance exam. The exam for admissions to BSc Nursing against 13,120 seats in 341 institutes, including 22 in the government sector, was conducted jointly by Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical University and King Georges Medical University. Now, private colleges running nursing courses have been asked to furnish details of each candidate who has been given admission for the 2022-23 session. The colleges need to upload the list of candidates, their merit and also send a stamped list of candidates to the office of the director general of medical education. The list will be cross-checked by concerned officials and any discrepancy will follow disciplinary action against the college. The focus will be upon names of candidates who have been enrolled but their details do not match with the list of candidates who took the exam or cross the cut off. The Goa police with assistance from Karnataka police arrested two persons for the abduction of two minor girls from their homes in Goa, police said, adding that the minors were rescued. (Representative Photo) Two people have been arrested for luring minor girls with the promise of a better life and later kidnapping them, Goa police said. Police said the accused, identified as Naveed Ahmad Pani and Tousif Killedar, allegedly kidnapped the two girls, aged 12 and 15 from their homes in Goa and took them to Hubballi in Karnataka, where they were lodged. Also Read: Two minor boys drown in pond in Punjabs Bathinda [They] lured both the minor girls with the hope of providing a better life and induced them to get gold ornaments from their homes. The accused persons subsequently sold the gold ornaments. All the gold was recovered from the goldsmiths in Hubbali, deputy superintendent of police (DSP) Jivba Dalvi said. Police swung into action following a missing complaint lodged by the respective parents of the two minors on May 29, said police. According to the police, a team from Goa was dispatched to Karnatakas Hubballi and with the information and assistance from Hubballi police, they searched the Nekar Nagar road, Tippunagar, where the two girls were kept. Police said they rescued the minor girls and arrested the accused. Upon interrogation, Ahmed Pani revealed the role of Killedar, who in turn confessed to the crime, police said. Three smugglers were arrested with 12 cattle of Myanmar breed in Tripuras North district on Tuesday, police said. The arrest and seizure came within 48 hours of recovering over 80 Myanmar breed cattle from Dhalai district. Police suspect that the cattle were being smuggled to Bangladesh. (Representative Image) The incident occurred at Muzaffarnagar under Damcherra police station. The three arrested persons have been identified as Litan Mia (30), Zamal Hussain (27) and Abdul Fatar (34). Litan and Zamal are residents of Melagarh and Sonamura, respectively, in Sepahijala district, and Abdul is from Damcherra. Police said that they came to know on May 29 that Myanmar breed cattle would be smuggled via Mizoram and would enter Panisagar sub-division in North district. Accordingly, police personnel were posted at all Naka points of Damcherra throughout the night till a 12-wheeler lorry carrying fa ew persons and 12 cattle entered Muzaffarnagar in the early morning. Police suspect that they were smuggling the cattle to Bangladesh. We seized the cattle and arrested three persons who were in the truck. We suspect there were a few more people who fled from the spot. We took a case under Section 382 (F) of the Indian Penal Code and Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. We are interrogating them to find out more details, Panisagar sub divisional police officer, Soumya Debbarma, said. This is likely to be the first such huge seizure of cattle at Damcherra in past two years, he said. Two days ago, the Border Security Force (BSF) seized 86 Myanmar breed cattle from Shibbari, a remote village in Dhalai district, and detained 18 persons for their alleged involvement in smuggling. Tripura chief minister Manik Saha on Wednesday said that his government has approved a committee to review the steps required to be taken for the kin of people who were killed in political violence in the state. . Tripura chief minister Mani Saha visited the residence of BJP activist Tapan Bhowmik, a victim of alleged political violence, at Gorkhabasti in Agartala, on Wednesday. (Twitter/DrManikSaha2) The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report for 2021 shows Tripura recorded the highest number of cases of political violence among all the north-eastern states. Our cabinet approved a committee on Tuesday to review what we can do for political violence victims family members, Saha said after visiting the residence of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) activist Tapan Bhowmik, a victim of alleged political violence, at Gorkhabasti in Agartala. The chief minister also handed over a cheque of 2 lakh to Bhowmiks family on behalf of the party. We have handed over the money to his family and we are considering giving a government job to a member of his family, the chief minister added. He (Bhowmik) was assaulted by some miscreants when the Assembly polls were announced. We all know they had links with the CPI(M). The accused persons have taken anticipatory bail. Our government and party are looking into the issue, and we shall not allow them to go scot-free, Saha said. Bhowmik died on March 2, the day the election results were announced. Veteran CPI(M) leader Pabitra Kar said, Our party activists were attacked first by the ruling party in that incident. We express our condolences over his demise. But our activists were also injured in the incident when they tried to intervene. He added that Bhowmik died after he had fallen sick. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Bihars Purnia police on Tuesday seized a milk tanker allegedly carrying liquor, police said. (Representative/File Photo) Acting on a tip-off, Purnia police seized a huge quantity of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) on NH-57 from a tanker allegedly belonging to Sudha dairy on Tuesday evening. Sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) Pushkar Kumar said, During a routine patrolling, Kasba police saw a pick-up van of Sudha dairy standing on NH-57 and after being searched, much to the astonishment, police stumbled onto a huge quantity of IMFL instead of milk. 1,182 litres of IMFL was seized besides 48 empty plastic milk crates the SDPO said, adding Police have started a probe to find out if the tanker actually belonged to Sudha dairy or whether it was designed by liquor smugglers. Also Read: SC permits liquor scam accused to withdraw pleas against PMLA Liquor smuggling has been rampant along the Indo-Nepal border despite the patrolling by anti-liquor task force (ALTF) teams. Seemanchal has been a conduit for liquor smugglers due to its vicinity with West Bengal and Jharkhand borders besides it shares a border with Nepal, a police officer without disclosing his identity said. In March, IMFL concealed in the coffin was being carried in an ambulance when the excise officials caught it and a day after, a huge quantity of IMFL was recovered from a septic tank specially designed to conceal liquor in the Saharsa district. Bihar has been a dry state since 2016 after chief minister Nitish Kumar-led government imposed a ban on the sale, transportation and consumption of liquor. Meanwhile, during a meeting on Tuesday chaired by CM Kumar, the cabinet approved a change in the Bihar Prohibition and Excise (Amendment) Act, 2022, PTI reported. The changes will allow concerned authorities to release vehicles carrying liquor on payment of a far lower rate of a penalty than that stipulated earlier. The authorities can now release vehicles carrying liquor after payment of either 10% of the insured value of the vehicle or Rs.5 lakh as penalty by the legal owner after consulting the judicial authority, PTI quoted additional chief secretary S Siddharth as saying. (with PTI inputs) The Crime Branch of Pune police arrested a man posing as an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer assigned to the Prime Ministers Office (PMO). The 54-year-old impersonator was apprehended after attending a charitable trust event in Aundh earlier this week. The accused, identified as Vasudev Nivrutti Tayade, is from Talegaon Dabhade. The accused, identified as Vasudev Nivrutti Tayade, is from Talegaon Dabhade. He was arrested on May 29 at around 8.30-9 am from Sindh Housing Society, Aundh, said police officer. Also Read: Postman prime accused in Haryana Civil Services exam fraud in Yamunanagar According to the police, the accused claimed to be Dr Vinay Deo, a deputy secretary with the PMO and involved in work related to intelligence.He attended an event hosted by Borderless World Foundation which aimed to send ambulance service to Jammu and Kashmir as part of their charitable initiative. The trustees of the organisation became suspicious of his behaviour and claims, leading them to report the matter to the police. The crime branch unit arrested the accused after he failed to provide necessary documents. A case has been registered against the accused under charges of cheating and impersonation. A young person on Tuesday staged a protest by climbing the bridge in front of Sancheti Hospital in Shivajinagar, reminiscent of the blockbuster film Sholay. resulting in traffic congestion. The protester, identified as Mahendra Deokar, aimed to draw the attention of the tehsildar of Junnar to register a name change in a land-related document. The dramatic incident unfolded around 4:30 pm near Sancheti Hospital. A young person on Tuesday staged a protest by climbing the bridge in front of Sancheti Hospital in Shivajinagar, reminiscent of the blockbuster film Sholay. resulting in traffic congestion. (HT) According to reports, Deokar, who hails from Sultanpur in Junnar tehsil, climbed a wall of the bridge to voice his displeasure and demand justice for the tehsildars alleged refusal to register the landowners name. The Khadki police swiftly responded to the incident and persuaded the protester to descend from the bridge. He was later charged under Indian Penal Code (IPC) Sections 309 and 189. A self-confessed chain smoker, actor Vipin Sharma quit smoking some 18 years back and since then has inspired many friends and industry mates. The Taare Zameen Pe actor says that one can keep contemplating kicking the butt for years, but it takes a moment for it to happen! Also read: Amitabh Bachchan recalls how he gave up drinking and smoking together, shares the 'very best way' to do it Vipin Sharma was recently seen in Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai. When Vipin realised how addicted he was I remember, it was February 2004 and I was going through some personal crisis, I had become a chain smoker, was heavily into drinking and seeing therapists as well. In Toronto (Canada), it was -40 degree C at night, and I was out of cigarettes. I started searching for the leftover butts and that was the time I had a realisation about how addicted I had become, shares Sharma. How Vipin quit smoking The actor says that he searched on the Internet how the f@#k I can quit smoking? The first website that appeared was WhyQuitSmoking and I started reading and hours went by...I joined its community and gained all knowledge about its harm, quitting and life after. Thodi bahut initially pareshani zaroor hui but I quit smoking. Trust me, its not tough to kick the butt! Realisation of its harm to ones body is important. I had quit smoking during my toughest phase so can anyone, says Sharma. He was recently seen in Sirf Ek Banda Kaafi Hai and Saas, Bahu and Flamingo. Inspiring friends to quit smoking Sharma had inspired many of his friends to quit including filmmaker Anubhav Sinha, Daas Dev co-producer Anil Patil and actor Anil Choudhury. Some of my friends in Canada quit smoking. I once told Anubhav sir to quit and count how many cigarettes he has not smoked. He calculated that in 22 months he would have smoked 15,000 cigarettes had he not quit. So, I just try to spread the awareness and tell that its achievable. In my life, best things have happened when I gave up smoking I came back to India and got Taare Zameen Par and that was just a beginning, says Sharma. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In his recent tweet, filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri had reminded everyone that the recently concluded Cannes Film Festival is meant for showcasing films and its not a fashion show. Elaborating on his viewpoint, he tells us, Films have been replaced by fashion. And that too, with the kind of fashion which is to create sensation, instead of being real. Now, looking weird and to shock the audience is in fashion. Vivek Agnihotri on fashion over films at Cannes Agnihotri looks back at the time when he had gone to the Festival de Cannes for his film The Tashkent Files, and instantly realised that it has become more of a fashion show. He recalls, I witnessed that fashion models (actors and influencers) wearing weird costumes was the main attraction at the red carpet. And the greatest of the actors and directors walked by and nobody cared about them. In fact, they were being pushed around. When asked why Bollywood actors are quiet on this whole scenario of fashion taking over films at Cannes, Agnihotri retorts, They are busy doing brand promotions and thats why they have to keep quiet. Its like if you dance at somebodys wedding and take money for it, you cant criticise the food at the wedding. They have no spine left. Also, Bollywood actors have become social media influencers, so they are not acting anymore. For them, life is cool. Another thing that the filmmaker found extremely strange and weird about the 76th edition of Cannes Film Festival was the presence of several social media influencers on the red carpet. And they even got a lot of limelight. I dont understand what do these influencers have got to do with feature films? It was very unfair for audiences in general because this is a dumbing down process, he says, adding, You are corrupting (the festival). Nobody cares about the central theme of the festival. Nobody knows which film was being screened or which won in what category. I am not commenting on anyones competence or capability, but most actors who attended Cannes from India had none of their films being there, and some didnt even have a release in many years. Hoping for better sense to prevail the next year, the filmmaker emphasises that Cannes is supposed to be a festival of important and unconventional films. Especially films which make very bold statements and are even controversial. I am talking about films that generally arent mainstream and wont get a platform to be showcased otherwise, he concludes. Ahead of the release of her next, Satyaprem Ki Katha, Kiara Advani was spotted out for a dubbing session in her new car, a black Mercedes Maybach worth 2.70 crore on Tuesday. She and her husband, actor Sidharth Malhotra, returned from their Japan vacation just last week. The couple got married in Suryagarh Palace in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan on February 7, 2023. (Also read: Kiara Advani wants to go back to vacation, shares unseen pic with Sidharth Malhotra. See pic) Kiara Advani was seen in a new Mercedes Maybach worth 2.70 crore. (Photos: Varinder Chawla) Kiara's new car A paparazzo account posted a video of Kiara stepping out of the black Mercedes Maybach outside the dubbing studio. The actor is wearing a maroon printed co-ord set with a white top, white shoes and dark sunglasses. Her hair was pulled back into a ponytail. Kiara moved through the waiting paparazzi and later posed and waved at the photographers before heading in for a dubbing session. Kiara on married life Sidharth and Kiara had worked together in the biopic Shershaah in 2021. The couple did not confirm any rumours about their relationship ahead of their February wedding. Afterwards, Kiara had stated how she was adjusting to married life. Speaking with News18, she said, For the first time, Im running a home. I used to live in my parents home. My mum did it all and weve so much respect and value for her right now. But its lovely and a beautiful phase. Im very, very happy. She had also added about her 'ideal husband' Sidharth, saying Hes a great life partner. Hes always motivating me whether its for working out or trying out new things. Hes very adventurous and driven. He has got that fire within him and its contagious." They recently went on vacation to Japan; Kiara had recently shared a photo of themselves from a Kyoto shrine. She captioned the photo, "Take me back already (orange heart emoji)." Up next for Kiara Kiara was last seen in the Disney+ Hotstar film Govinda Naam Mera with Vicky Kaushal and Bhumi Pednekar. Her next film, Satyaprem Ki Katha, is opposite Kartik Aaryan. Directed by Sameer Vidwans, it will be released in theatres on June 29, 2023. She is also working on S Shankar's Telugu debut Game Changer with Ram Charan and SJ Suryah. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Producer Vipul Shah has said that the film's makers have taken all legal recourse they could to ensure the screening of The Kerala Story. However, they will not be able to get down to the streets and fight goons, he added. (Also read: Sudipto reacts to Kamal Haasan calling The Kerala Story propaganda) The Kerala Story hit the theatres on May 5. The Kerala Story released earlier this month, but the film's screening was banned in West Bengal. After the producers filed cases, the Supreme Court (SC) recently asked the state government to remove the bans on the screening of the film. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud also directed the Tamil Nadu government to ensure all security arrangements are made to ensure the film's screening and the safety of moviegoers. The bench said it is the duty of the state government to maintain law and order as the film has been granted certification by the CBFC Vipul Shah on less screens Asked if he would take any legal steps to ensure the screening of his film, Vipul told DNA, We did whatever we could under the law. Nothing is above the Supreme Court in this country. Now, we would request the SC to take suo motu action against these governments and make sure punishment is given that is so strong that nobody does this in the future. Supreme Court has lifted the ban. Beyond this, we will not be able to go onto the streets and fights with goons of these parties. West Bengal ban Imposing a ban on the film, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had labelled it a distorted story. The state government also said that the ban was imposed to maintain peace and harmony in the state. The movie was banned under section 6 of the West Bengal Cinemas (Regulation) Act ,which says that if the state is of the opinion that any film which is being publicly exhibited is likely to cause breach of peace, the exhibition of the film may be suspended or prohibited. The Kerala Story controversy The film directed by Sudipto Sen features Adah Sharma, Sonia Balani and Yogita Bihani. After the film's trailer claimed that 32,000 women went missing from the state of Kerala alone, several people objected to the estimated figures. The film claimed all these women were made to join the terrorist group ISIS, after forced conversion. Faced with backlash the makers then withdrew the figure and called the movie the story of three women from Kerala, in its trailer description. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Director Martin Scorsese has announced that he will make a movie about Jesus Christ. Recently, Martin met Pope Francis and said he is inspired to make a film about Jesus. The filmmaker visited Italy after the premiere of his directorial, Killer of the Flower Moon, at the recently-concluded 2023 Cannes Film Festival. (Also Read | Killers of the Flower Moon teaser: Martin Scorsese film amps up the mystery and drama) Martin Scorsese will make a film about Jesus.(REUTERS) Martin talks about his film on Jesus The 80-year-old filmmaker and his wife Helen Morris met Pope Francis during a brief private audience at the Vatican, last week. As reported by The Guardian, Martin said, "I have responded to the Popes appeal to artists in the only way I know how: by imagining and writing a screenplay for a film about Jesus. And Im about to start making it. Martin's representatives told The Guardian they had no further information on the project. The conference, titled The Global Aesthetics of the Catholic Imagination, was organised by Jesuit publication La Civilta Cattolica and Georgetown University. As per news agency PTI, at the conference, Martin also touched upon the meaning of his 1988 epic The Last Temptation of Christ and of "the subsequent step in his research on the figure of Jesus" represented by his 2016 drama Silence about the persecution of Jesuit Christians in 17th-century Japan. Martin was at Cannes Film Festival 2023 Martin attended the film festival where his film Killers of the Flower Moon received much admiration with a nine-minute-long standing ovation at its world premiere. The film stars Robert De Niro, Leonardo Di Caprio, Lily Gladstone, and Jesse Plemons. Brendan Fraser and John Lithgow are also part of the movie. Based on a true story and told through the romance between Burkhart (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Mollie Kyle (Lily Gladstone), Killers of the Flower Moon is an epic Western crime saga, where real love crosses paths with unspeakable betrayal, as per news agency ANI. The film is all set to hit the theatres on October 6. Martin's films over the last few decades He has made several films including Taxi Driver, Gangs of New York, The Aviator, Shutter Island, The Wolf of Wall Street, The Irishman, After Hours, The Last Temptation of Christ, The Age of Innocence, Kundun, Hugo and Silence among many others. Martin has also directed episodes for some television series including Boardwalk Empire and Vinyl as well as the docu-series Pretend It's a City. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON BTS rapper J-Hope, who is currently serving in the South Korean army, has reportedly added a new feather to his cap. As per a new report, J-Hope has been selected as the assistant instructor in the military. BTS agency BigHit Music has reacted to the news. (Also Read | J-Hope shares first pics in uniform after completing military training) BTS' J-Hope started his military training in April. J-Hope gets a new responsibility In its new report, Soompi cited a military official and said that the rapper was chosen for the role in the 36th Infantry Division recruit training centre. Soompi, quoting a source reported, J-Hope will serve as an assistant instructor after passing a period of educational qualification evaluation. BigHit Music reacts Soompi quoted BigHit Music as reacting, Please understand that it is difficult to confirm. Last week, J-Hope had shared his first post after completing military training. On Weverse, he posted his photos in military uniform. He wrote, "Everyone in the ARMY!!! I have completed it (training) well. The letters and support that you have all sent have been a great help, that's why I was able to work hard while receiving training!!!" He also added, "I will continue to work hard and show you the good sides of me during the rest of my time when I'll be wearing the uniform! I love you!! (purple heart emoji)...cellphone is fascinating .... hahaha." Reacting to the post, RM commented, "You worked hard, J-Hope!!!" J-Hope's military enlistment On April 18, J-Hope became the second BTS member to enlist in the military after Jin. Similar to Jin, J-Hope is reported to serve as an assistant instructor until his discharge on October 17, 2024. Other members -- RM, Suga, Jimin, V and Jungkook -- plan to carry out their military service based on their own individual plans. The group, which debuted in 2013, had announced a break from group activities in June 2022. BTS members hope to reconvene as a unit around 2025 following their service commitment. In South Korea, all able-bodied men aged 18-28 are required to serve in the military for about two years. All BTS members were allowed to put off starting their military service until they turned 30. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The title of Mahesh Babus upcoming Telugu film, which is being directed by Trivikram, was announced on the occasion of his late father G Krishnas birth anniversary on Wednesday. The project, which has been titled Guntur Kaaram, marks the third collaboration between Mahesh and Trivikram, who had previously worked together in films such as Athadu (2005) and Khaleja (2010). (Also read: Title of Mahesh Babus next to be revealed on his father G. Krishnas birth anniversary: Report) Mahesh Babu's Guntur Kaaram will be released on Sankranti next year. Guntur Kaaram teaser Mahesh took to Twitter to release the teaser. He captioned the video, Highly inflammable. Mahesh can be seen smoking a beedi in the teaser. It features him in a completely different look with long hair and a stubble. The video gives one a quick glimpse of Mahesh Babus character. In a refreshing departure from his urban characters, it looks like he will be seen in an extremely local avatar. Going by the title and the visuals, looks like the story is set in the backdrop of Guntur. Fan reactions to Mahesh's new look Reacting to the video, several fans expressed their excitement over Maheshs avatar. One Twitter user wrote: Finally, we get a character and look that really stands out for Mahesh (sic). Another Twitter user wrote: Smoking is not cool but Mahesh looks so hot with a beedi (sic). A few months ago, Namrata Shirodkar took to Instagram to share the picture of hubby Mahesh in a completely new avatar which got his fans wondering if it is for his next film with filmmaker Trivikram. Some fans compared the look to Keanu Reeves in John Wick. When will the film be out? This film, which will hit the screens for Sankranti festival next year, also stars Pooja Hegde as Maheshs love interest. The rest of the cast and crew are yet to be officially announced. The film has music by SS Thaman and has been produced by Haarika and Hassine Creations. Mahesh to reunite with SS Rajamouli Meanwhile, Mahesh will next team up with filmmaker SS Rajamouli for an Indiana Jones style globe-trotting action adventure. The film, which will have a story by Rajamoulis father Vijayendra Prasad, will be predominantly shot in the forests of Africa. Rajamoulis film is expected to go on the floors later this year or early next year. ott:10 SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Lisa Rinna, known for her portrayal on "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," recently shared that she felt a divine intervention guiding her decision to leave the popular Bravo reality franchise. In his tell-all book, The Daddy Diaries: The Year I Grew Up, the host of Watch What Happens Live, Andy Cohen spilled the tea on Lisa Rinna's exit from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. In an interview with The Evening Standard, Rinna expressed her conviction that it was time for her to move on after eight years on the show. I didnt want to live like that-I dont think thats healthy. The way the fanbase reacts to the show now is not how it was when I first started, she expressed. The 59-year-old actress acknowledged that the RHOBH cast members collectively recognized that it was the right moment for them to explore new opportunities. Reflecting on her time on the show, Rinna pondered, "What more could I have done, besides generate more memes?" The Clash of the Titans' star also revealed that the passing of her mother, Lois, at the age of 93 played a significant role in her decision. The grief she experienced from the loss became part of her storyline on the show. Rinna shared an intriguing detail about her departure, explaining that her mother appeared to her in a dream, urging her to move on. Some might find this account unusual, but Rinna disclosed that she consulted a psychic who confirmed her mother's message. According to her, the psychic conveyed, "'Oh yeah, she's come to me and told me that. She wants you to be happy and follow your dream, but she says it's time for you to go.' I've never told anybody that, except for the psychic. I'm guided by my mom, for sure." Beyond personal reasons, the RHOBH star also noted that the show's fandom has changed over time, mirroring the volatile nature of the world we live in. "I think the world itself has gotten so volatile that the response doesn't match what we're doing. I didn't want to live like that. I don't think that's healthy," the Native American actress expressed her discomfort with the current response from fans. The L.A Law performer emphasized that the shift in the fan base's reactions influenced her decision to depart. She further revealed that during her time on the show, she and her cast mates received death threats and encountered some of the most horrific things she had ever seen in print. ALSO READ| The Real Housewives: How they changed from their past to their present "It's a reality show! It's a stupid show! I thought: 'It's time to go.' I'm not sure how much longer that can exist in the zeitgeist, to be honest with you," Rinna expressed her disbelief. Rinna's departure from "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" marks the end of an era for the popular reality franchise. With a sense of divine guidance and a desire to protect her well-being, she chooses to bid farewell to the show that brought her fame. After his internet-breaking Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story, filmmaker Hansal Mehta is back with another series, this time on Netflix. Based on Jigna Voras book Behind Bars In Byculla, Scoop follows the story of intrepid crime reporter Jagruti Vora (played by Karishma Tanna). After a fellow journalist is murdered by the Chhota Rajan gang in 2011, Jagrutis investigation into the murder soon leads to her being arrested and falsely accused of the crime. The hotshot journalist who frequently found her stories on the front page herself becomes the victim of an ugly media trial. The reporter becomes the reported as Hansal puts it. (Also Read | Scoop trailer: Karishma Tanna plays a crime journalist who herself becomes the story in Hansal Mehta's gripping drama) Karishma Tanna in a still from the Netflix series Scoop. Co-created and written by Mrunmayee Lagoo, Scoop uses Jagrutis story to explore the ethically murky world of crime journalism, corruption, and coverups. Ahead of the shows release, creators Hansal Mehta and Mrunmaye Lagoo, and lead Karishma Tanna spoke to me about the series, the unlikely casting of Harman Baweja, and the sorry state of journalism. Edited Excerpts: I have to start with the obvious question - what about Jigna Voras book made you feel like it would make for a great series? Mrunmayee: It's a very compelling story of a woman in a field that isn't tailor-made to see women in. We were also very excited to be in newsrooms. I don't think we've really been in newsrooms in this kind of capacity in anything we've seen on Indian screens. Thats why we decided to go beyond the book and look at not just what happened in prison, but also what happened before and take you into a print newsroom which feels like a different era altogether. And which other format really lets you deep dive into something like this and do it justice? Thats why we thought it had to be a series. Scoop also has a very curious structure. Its not entirely an investigative thriller about the underworld and it's not entirely a journalism story. Its a bit of both, but its also part biopic with Jagrutis story and what she goes through. Was it tough to crack a structure that balanced all those elements over six episodes? Mrunmayee: When you say it now it sounds really complicated. But when you're actually working on it, your entire focus is on telling an engaging story. Whether its balancing Jagrutis family life with the investigative angle, or figuring out whos taking the plot further when shes in jail. All these kinds of concerns made the show what it is. We never started from biopic karna hai or investigative series karna hai. It kind of happened as we went along Hansal: The other decision we made was to tell the story in a linear manner rather than go back and forth in time and complicate the journey. For me, more than the book I found her character to be very compelling. After Harshad Mehta, this is the other character that really interested me. And its such an interesting coincidence - both are Gujaratis. He also started off in Ghatkopar and shes also Ghatkopar based. That, and deep diving into Jagrutis world was interesting. What do you really want in a newspaper? You just want a byline at all costs, and this is the price you pay for that byline. And I loved the idea of the reporter becoming the reported. Karishma for you, this is one of those roles where youre playing every aspect of this persons life. Jagruti the mother, the badass journalist and her harrowing experience of being falsely accused and going to prison. Was there a specific moment either when you were reading the script or when you were on set where you thought Okay I got her. I know who she is now? Yeah, when I was reading the script, one thing about her I really connected with was her restlessness and impatience which I also have. I talk fast and I fumble because my mind is racing faster than I'm talking. The character required a really fast energy because you're in the newsroom and that world is very fast-paced. And even on shoot, if I fumbled, Hansal Sir said If youre overlapping or talking over someone else, please keep going dont stop. I want that in the scene because thats how people talk in real life. Hansal: It's a nightmare for the sound designer (laughs). They always complain saying I can overlap them in the final sound design and I said, no, itll never look or feel natural. Hansal, I have to ask about casting Harman Baweja. It's such an unlikely piece of casting and he's very good in the show. How did that happen? Hansal: (laughs) That was Mukesh Chhabra and my idea. Thankfully, the platforms like Netflix also give me free rein in terms of casting and it works. I enjoy casting as much as shooting, and that process of surprising myself. Karishma was just that. There were a lot of accomplished actors in the room that auditioned for the part of Jagruti, but I found Karishma to be hungrier than them and thats what I wanted for Jagruti. I didnt want intellectual baggage. There were a lot of accomplished actors in the room that auditioned for the part of Jagruti, but I found Karishma to be hungrier than them and thats what I wanted for Jagruti. With Harman, hed actually given up on acting. He's actually producing now and we were working on a film together at the same time we were casting Scoop and we were struggling with the character of JCP Shroff because so many actors had said no. And suddenly I messaged Mukesh and said What do you think of Harman?. He said, I think hed be great but will he do it?. I really had to work on Harman because his previous acting stints left him in a bit of despair and he had since shifted his focus to producing which he's doing successfully now. When he finally agreed, he came without any baggage. He didn't have anything to prove. The second that happens, the actor within you blossoms. I really enjoy that process of an actor not worrying about how they come across. Were you also glad that you were making a show about journalism thats set in 2011? It just felt like a simpler time when newspapers mattered, the front page mattered, and the beast of social media and online reporting wasnt the mess it is today. I imagine itd be much harder to tell this story if it was set in 2023? Hansal: At that time we were right at the cusp of change. The landscape was already changing. Some monsters were unleashed just a few years later. Ever since the Kandahar Hijack, you saw the landscape shifting and news becoming reality TV. And then 9/11 and 26/11 - all those things impacted the way we were consuming news. It had become a medium of engagement and generating business, which is what we explore in the show - the constant battle of what is news, what is ethical, and what sells. Now it's not a battle anymore. Now it's understood that ethics don't matter. You have a great line in the show when journalists in a hospital are trying to take a picture of a dead body, and someone shouts at them and says Show some respect, and the journalists say Sir, if we show respect people will change the channel. Hansal: Exactly. Its a very telling moment. It's an important line, but I didnt want to underline it or stress on it in the show. Its said in just matter of fact way. Thats just their reality. Jagruti becomes the result of that reality and an ugly media trial. But shes also a part of the very system that attacks her. Do you consider her to be a good journalist? Karishma: I think she was very ambitious and theres nothing wrong with that. She had dreams and she was very talented. And in that mess, if something like this happens, its very unfortunate. Hansal: I think she also crossed the line. But you never know when you're crossing the line. You justify it to yourself, not knowing what the collateral damage is until you become the collateral damage. At least 60 weapons that were stolen by mobs from police stations and offices of other police units in Thoubal and Imphal West districts of violence-hit Manipur were recovered by forces in the past two days, officials aware of the matter said on Wednesday. Security personnel patrol an area in Churachandpur. (ANI) The weapons, which went missing over the weekend, were handed over by villagers, most of whom claimed to have found them on roads, the officials added. We have not acted against anyone because we are busy managing the law-and-order situation in the districts. But action will be taken in the case of theft and robbery that happened at the stations,a police officer at Thoubal district said on condition of anonymity. Also Read: Amit Shah reaches violence-hit Manipur, chairs high-level meet Several units of arms and ammunition have been looted by mobs from several government armouries since May 3, when ethnic violence between the tribal Kukis, who mostly reside in the hill districts, and the Meiteis, the dominant community in Imphal Valley first began. At least 80 people have died and another 40,000 displaced in the state so far. On Wednesday evening, a spokesperson of the ministry of home affairs (MHA) said that Union home minister Amit Shah directed senior officers of the state police and paramilitary forces to recover the looted weapons at the earliest and restore normalcy in the region. Also Read: 'Deep sense of loss and hurt: Congress demands judicial probe into Manipur violence The home minister has directed officials to take stern and prompt actions, to prevent violence, against armed miscreants and recover looted weapons to bring back normalcy at the earliest, the spokesperson said. On Saturday and Sunday, weapons were looted primarily from Imphal East, Imphal West and Thoubal districts. Mobs barged inside the headquarters of the Manipur Rifles and Indian Reserve Battalions in Imphal East and West, and also targeted the Yairipok and Nongpok Sekmai police stations in Thoubal. While the state government is yet to provide an exact figure on how many weapons have gone missing, the officer mentioned above said that during the first week, when the violence began on May 3, 1,432 weapons were stolen, of which 545 have been recovered. Around 500 arms were recently looted on May 27 and 28, the officer added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Prawesh Lama Prawesh Lama covers crime, policing, and issues of security in Delhi. Raised in Darjeeling, educated in Mumbai, he also looks at special features on social welfare in the National Capital. ...view detail Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hit out at Congress over corruption, accusing it of taking 85 per cent commission in each development project. Our country never had a shortage of money for development work. Congress is a party that takes a cut of 85% commission in every project. We were able to do development because we plugged the leakages created by the Congress party, Modi said at a rally in Ajmer in poll-bound Rajasthan. The prime minister's attack comes weeks after the saffron party's defeat in Karnataka, wherein its previous government was dubbed as 40% commission Sarkara by Congress during poll campaigns. Continuing his attack, Modi said, When it comes to loot, Congress does not discriminate between anyone. It loots every citizen including poor, oppressed, tribals, minorities, women and Divyangs. Taunts Gehlot vs Pilot feud Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks during a public meeting in Ajmer on Wednesday.(PTI) The PM also took a veiled swipe at the ongoing tussle within the Congress. After several years, you made a stable government at the Centre in 2014. The BJP has respected your mandate. But you gave a mandate in Rajasthan five years ago. What did Rajasthan get in return? Instability and anarchy. For the past five years, ministers, MLAs and the CM are busy fighting with each other, Modi said, referring to the hostilities between CM Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot. Superpower above PM The rally was organised to mark the completion of nine years of the Modi government across its two terms. "What was the situation prior to 2014? People were on the streets against corruption, there used to be terrorist attacks in big cities, Congress Govt was scared of building roads at borders, crime against women was high, there was a superpower above the PM, Congress Govt was functioning through a remote control...", he added. This 'guarantee habit' of Congress is not new, it is old. 50 years back, Congress gave the 'garibi hatao' guarantee to the country. This is Congress party's biggest treachery with the poor. Congress' strategy has been to trick the poor. People of Rajasthan have suffered due to this, Modi said, in an apparent jibe at the Congress' guarantee promise to the voters in Karnataka. Referring to the opposition's criticism of him inaugurating the new parliament, Modi said,"...Achievements of India, success of the people of India is not digestible to a few people. India got a new Parliament building. Are you not proud of the new Parliament?... But Congress & some other parties like it threw mud of politics at it...They are angry that how is the son of a poor standing before their ego? They are angry that the why is son of the poor not allowing their arbitrariness? They are angry that why is son of the poor questioning their corruption & dynasty?..." Before his rally, the prime minister had offered prayers at the famous Brahma temple in Pushkar. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A plea filed by five Hindu women seeking the right to regularly worship deities in the Gyanvapi Masjid complex is maintainable, the Allahabad high court ruled on Wednesday, dismissing a petition challenging a lower court order that allowed proceedings in the case to go ahead. Five women have sought the right to regularly worship deities in Gyanvapi complex. In September last year, the Varanasi district court ruled that the plea by the five Hindu women was not barred by the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, the Waqf Act 1995, and the UP Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Act, 1983. The Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee (AIMC) had challenged this in the high court. But justice JJ Munir sided with the Hindu sides arguments, saying that the suit by the women for regular worship of Maa Shringar Gauri and other deities in the Gyanvapi mosque compound was maintainable. It is a historic verdict. The court clearly has said that the Anjuman Intezamia Mosque Committees petition is not maintainable and dismissed it, said Vishnu Shankar Jain, who represents the Hindu side. Senior advocate SFA Naqvi, representing AIMC, said: This judgment has the potential to establish a precedent that could lead to an increase in frivolous lawsuits concerning disputes between temples and mosques. Some politically-motivated people are explicitly seeking the religious conversion of a place or a change in religious character of a place of worship, which is specifically barred by section 4 of the Places of Worship Act. This has opened up a pandoras box of politico legal challenges. In reality, what they actually want is not hidden from anyone. Advocate Ekhlaq Ahmad, another lawyer of AIMC, said they will approach the Supreme Court. The verdict is against our expectation. We expected the high court would allow our revision petition. But it has dismissed it. We will challenge the verdict in the Supreme Court, he said. The decision is a major victory for the Hindu side in a case that has become the most high-profile in a string of similar suits filed in lower courts across Uttar Pradesh, arguing that Islamic holy sites were built over Hindu temples, including in Varanasi, Mathura and Agra. During the arguments, Naqvi contended that the claim of the Hindu side that devotees were restrained from worshipping Shringar Gauri and other deities on the outer wall of Gyanvapi in 1993 is an artificial claim and an example of clever drafting. According to him, no order was passed by the then state government in writing in 1993. Naqvi also said the claim was made only to avoid the application of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which bars changing the religious character of any holy site as it existed on August 15, 1947, with the exception of the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute. According to Naqvi, the present suit was barred by the 1991 law, Limitation Act and the Waqf Act. The counsel representing the Hindu side said that old maps showed the existence of Hindu deities and devotees were regularly worshipping Shringar Gauri and other deities on the outer wall of Gyanvapi. It was in 1993 that the then government restrained regular rituals and allowed people to worship only once a year, the counsel said. Hence, the Act of 1991 was not applicable to the case, given that worshipping of the deities continued for decades, the counsel added. The Gyanvapi dispute dates back decades but in August 2021, five women filed a petition in a local court demanding the right of unhindered worship at the Maa Shringar Gauri Sthal, located inside the complex that houses idols of Hindu gods. In April 2022, the local court ordered a controversial survey of the complex, which quickly ran into protests. The survey was finally completed in May, but not before the Hindu side claimed that a shivling was found in the final hours of the exercise. The court clamped security on the entire complex even as the Muslim side argued that the structure found was a ceremonial ablution fountain. The case finally reached the Supreme Court, which on May 20, 2022 transferred the suit from the Varanasi civil judge to the district judge and protected the site. The Allahabad high court on Wednesday dismissed a civil revision petition filed by the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee (AIMC) that has challenged a Varanasi court order turning down its objections to the maintainability of the suit filed by five Hindu women seeking permission to regularly worship Shringar Gauri and other deities in Varanasis Gyanvapi mosque compound. Gyanvapi mosque Justice JJ Munir passed this order after hearing the counsel for the rival sides at length. "I hope that the day is not far when we will construct a grand Shiv temple there and the present structure will be removed," said Hari Shankar Jain, the lawyer representing the Hindu side. In October last year, the Masjid committee, which manages the Gyanvapi mosque situated adjacent to Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi, had filed a plea in the Allahabad high court challenging the district court's September 12 order which held as maintainable the suit filed by five Hindu women seeking the right to pray at Maa Shringar Gauri within the mosque complex. On September 12, the district court had rejected the mosque committee's plea against the maintainability of the plea seeking right for daily worship of Hindu deities whose idols are located on an outer wall of the Gyanvapi Masjid. The district court had reserved the order till September 12 in the case. A lower court had ordered a videographic survey of the complex. The survey work was completed on May 16 and the report was submitted before the court on May 19. As per the Hindu side, a Shivling was found during the videographic survey of the Gyanvapi mosque-Shringar Gauri complex, but it was contested by the Muslim side. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Union minister Anurag Thakur on Wednesday lashed out at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi- who is on a 10-day visit to the US- for allegedly insulting India and Indians on the foreign soil and said that Gandhi is a repeat offender as he insults India every time he goes abroad. Union minister Anurag Thakur and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. (File) Read here: What you cast away as walking stick: BJP condemns Rahul Gandhi's US speech During his foreign visits, Rahul Gandhi insults India. PM Modi met almost 24 PMs and Presidents of the world and held over 50 meetings during his foreign visit recently and when the Australian PM said that 'PM Modi is the Boss', Rahul Gandhi could not digest this," he told news agency ANI. Rahul Gandhi during his interaction in San Francisco on the first day of his US visit targeted Narendra Modi-led central government and said that some groups in India have the "disease" of being under the impression that they know everything. Read here: 'If you sat Modiji down next to God': Rahul Gandhi in US; BJP did Sengol thing as "In India, we grew up with people of different languages, different religions. And that is what is being attacked. The tradition in India, of people like Gandhi Ji and Guru Nanak Ji, has been that you should not be under the impression of knowing everything. It is a 'disease' that some groups of India think that they know everything. Even if they have a conversation with God, they might explain to him," he said. Further adding to his remark, the Congress leader said, "And of course, Prime Minister is one of them. If you make him sit with God, he would start explaining to him (God) how the universe works...and God would get confused about what I had created." While hitting out at the Congress leader, Thakur said, Rahul Gandhi aims to insult PM Modi but ends up hurting India. He does not even consider India as a country but as a union of states. What does Rahul Gandhi want to achieve by doing all this? See the difference. When PM Modi visits abroad, he meets the PMs and the Presidents of other countries. Australian PM called him 'Boss', Italy PM called him most loved leader of the world; probably Rahul Gandhi could not digest this". Read here: Rahul Gandhi's reaction to 'Khalistan slogans' in US and a political row: Watch He further added that India is now getting respect and pride on foreign soil. They look for a hope and future in India. Congress could not digest this pride as it never happened in the past 75 years. Rahul Gandhi is on a 10-day visit to the US, his first stop being San Francisco. The next two will be Washington DC and New York. Rahul Gandhi's last foreign visit which was to the UK stirred a major controversy in India as he -- then an MP -- was accused of insulting Indian democracy on foreign soil. Ahead of the 2023 edition of its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple has announced the winners of the Swift Student Challenge, which precedes each edition of the WWDC. Indore resident Asmi Jain (Image courtesy: Apple) Among the total 375 winners of Swift Student Challenge 2023, there are some first-time champions as well, including an Indian: Indore resident Asmi Jain. Who is Asmi Jain? Jain, a student of Medi-Caps University in her hometown the country's cleanest city designed an app playground to track a user's eye movements, as they try to follow a ball moving around the screen. She entered the competition after a friend's uncle, after undergoing a brain surgery, was left with eye misalignment and facial paralysis. The developer, however, hopes her creation can be used for various eye conditions and injuries. My next goal is to get feedback and make sure its effective and user-friendly, and then release it on the App Store. Ultimately, I want to expand it so that it helps strengthen all of the muscles in the face, she said. For Jain, the desire to use coding to solve problems in the healthcare sector stems from the many years she spent volunteering to help people around her. Coding, she said, lets me create things that help my friends and community, and gives me a sense of independence that is very empowering. Apple Swift Student Challenge Under this, the tech giant issues a challenge to students across the globe; it asks them to create an original app playground using the Swift coding language. Also, to recognise more students for their artistry and ingenuity, the Tim Cook-helmed company increased the number of winners to 375, from 350 in the previous editions. We are amazed by the talent we see from the young developers who enter the challenge, said Susan Prescott, Apple's vice-president of Worldwide Developers Relations. Prescot added: This years submissions demonstrated not only the next generations commitment to building tools that will improve our lives, but also a willingness to embrace new technologies and tools, and deploy them in original and creative ways. These champions will now get to be in attendance for WWDC, both virtually and in-person. The 5-day event will kick off on June 5. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT News Desk Follow the latest breaking news and developments from India and around the world with Hindustan Times' newsdesk. From politics and policies to the economy and the environment, from local issues to national events and global affairs, we've got you covered. ...view detail Jammu The army on Wednesday foiled an infiltration attempt on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu & Kashmirs Poonch sector and arrested three terrorists, said officials. The army also seized a consignment of arms and ammunition which included a 10kg improvised explosive device (IED), added officials. The army also seized a consignment of arms and ammunition which included a 10kg improvised explosive device . (Agencies) Providing details, army spokesperson Lt Col Devender Anand, in a statement said: In a joint operation by Army and police... terrorists were intercepted on LoC in Poonch while attempting to cross the fence on the night of May 30 and 31. Three terrorists, with weapons, war-like stores including a powerful 10kg IED, were apprehended, he said, adding that one soldier was also injured during the incident and his condition is stable now. The terrorists were identified as Mohammad Farooq (26) -- who received a bullet injury in his leg, Mohammad Riaz (23) and Mohammad Zubar (22), all residents of Karmara village in Poonch district. The injured terrorists have been shifted to a civil hospital under police custody, said officials. The seizures made from the arrested accused include an AK-56 assault rifle with 10 rounds in the magazine (the rest of the ammunition was exhausted by the terrorists), two pistols with two magazines, 10-kg IED which was planted inside a pressure cooker, six Chinese grenades and 20 packets of narcotics suspected to be heroin worth over 100 crore in the international market. During preliminary questioning, the injured terrorist identified as Mohammad Farooq said that the IED was supposed to be planted on an army convoy in Gulpur area of Poonch, said a senior army official wished to remain anonymous. The IED was planted inside a pressure cooker, it was later neutralised safely by bomb disposal squad, he added. Search operations were underway in the area until the last reports were received, said officials. On May 5, five army soldiers were killed, and four others including an officer injured after terrorists triggered an explosive device during an encounter that broke out with security forces in the Kandli area of Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir. On April 20, five soldiers were killed and another injured in Pir Panjal valleys Poonch district in Jammu province after terrorists opened fire and launched grenades at an Army vehicle during a patrol. Earlier on January 1 and 2, seven civilians including a four-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl were killed by armed terrorists in Rajouris Dhangri village. In all three attacks, the terrorists have remained elusive. The jungles in Bhata Dhurian, Nar Khas, Chamrer and Kandi in the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch with natural caves have become a haven for terrorists, said officials familiar with the developments. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The BrahMos supersonic missile has 'galvanised and greatly enhanced' the firepower of the Indian Air Force and bolstered the nation's ability to defend itself in any conflict, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said Wednesday. The Air Chief hailed the potent combination of a BrahMoS missle on the Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets and said smaller versions of the next-generation BrahMos missiles are being developed for fitment to other combat aircraft. Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari addresses during the silver jubilee celebrations of Brahmos User Meet 2023, in New Delhi on Wednesday. (ANI) "The BrahMos supersonic missile has really galvanised the way (in which) we will equip ourselves with precision firepower in the coming years. Seeing conflicts that are happening across the globe, the importance of precision, long-range firepower can't be underscored." "The combination of BrahMos on the Sukhoi Su-30 has really given us tremendous capability that has enhanced our firepower. It has made the deterrence value of the Indian Air Force go up by leaps and bounds," the head of the country's air force told news agency ANI. "As the situation unfolded in Northern borders three years ago, we realised the potent weapon can be used very effectively for land attacks..." "In (the) future, next-generation BrahMos or a small version can be fitted onto smaller platforms, like MiG-29, Mirage 2000 or even the LCA (Light Combat Aircraft)," he added. What is the BrahMos missile? The BrahMos is a two-stage missile with a solid propellant booster engine as its first; this separates after allowing the weapon to reach supersonic speeds. The second stage, or the liquid ramjet, then takes the missile close to speeds of Mach 3, or over 3,700 km per hour. The BrahMos has a range of 290 km but, crucially, with supersonic speeds all through the flight time, it has 'lower dispersion of targets, quicker engagement time and non-interception by any known weapon system in the world', according to its developers. The BrahMos carries a conventional warhead weighing 200 to 300 kg and its cruising altitude is 15 km, with a terminal altitude as low as 10 metres. There are three versions - one used each by the Navy, the Air Force and the Army. The Navy's BrahMos order In March, the Navy said it was going to acquire over 200 BrahMos missiles. Senior defence officials told ANI the proposal to acquire these missiles is likely to be cleared very soon. The BrahMos-Pakistan incident Meanwhile, on Tuesday the government told the Delhi High Court the accidental firing of a BrahMos missile into Pakistan last year had cost the state exchequer 24 crore. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT News Desk Follow the latest breaking news and developments from India and around the world with Hindustan Times' newsdesk. From politics and policies to the economy and the environment, from local issues to national events and global affairs, we've got you covered. ...view detail Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi sounded the poll bugle in Rajasthan, the Congress on Wednesday said his attempt to defame the grand old party in the state is bound to fail. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said the people of Rajasthan know that the incumbent government has done a wonderful job and BJP is scared of our achievements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves at supporters during a public meeting in Ajmer, Wednesday, May 31, 2023.(PTI) In a tweet, Ramesh said, Aaj campaignjeevi ne Ajmer se Rajasthan ke liye apna chunaavi prachar launch kiya. Modi raag keval daag se Congress ko badnaam kar raha hai. (Today campaignjeevi launched his election campaign for Rajasthan from Ajmer. Modi raag (tune) is only defaming Congress with stain.) It first failed miserably in Karnataka, now it is bound to fail in Rajasthan. Because the people of Rajasthan know that the Congress government has done a wonderful job here. BJP is scared of our achievements, he added. Speaking in Parliament in 2021, Modi said a new "breed" of agitators called "andolanjeevi has emerged in the country who cannot live without agitation and the nation should guard against them. The Congress has since been using terms like "jumlajeevi" and "campaignjeevi" to hit back at the prime minister. Addressing a gathering in Ajmer, Modi alleged that the Congress is a party that took "85 per cent commission", and referred to a statement by former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi that when his government sent one rupee only 15 paise would reach the intended beneficiary. He accused Congress of following a policy of misleading the poor and keeping them deprived during its rule. "Fifty years ago, Congress guaranteed that it will remove poverty. But it turned out to be their biggest betrayal to the poor." It has been a policy of the Congress to mislead the poor and keep them deprived. The people of Rajasthan have also suffered a lot due to this. In his first remarks on the Congress-led Opposition boycotting the inauguration of the new Parliament building, the prime minister said they "insulted" the sentiment of the country and the hard work of 60,000 labourers. "India got a new Parliament building three days back. I ask you whether you are proud of it or not. Did you feel the joy on the increase in India's prestige? The Congress and some parties like it hurled muck of politics on this too," he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON BHOPAL/SAGAR: Madhya Pradesh home minister Narottam Mishra on Wednesday ordered a detailed police inquiry into a poster by a private school congratulating 18 students for their performance in the board examination after a controversy erupted on social media over the girls wearing headscarves irrespective of their religion. Madhya Pradesh home minister Narottam Mishra ordered a detailed inquiry after the first probe ordered by the Damoh administration cleared the school (Twitter/drnarottammisra) The ministers intervention came after the families of the four Hindu girls who feature in the poster declined to file a complaint when the Damoh district administration first reached out to them during a preliminary inquiry initiated on the basis of feedback from social media. National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) chairman Priyank Kanoongo was among those who flagged the case on Twitter on Tuesday, alleging that it has received a complaint that a school in MPs Damoh district was forcing Hindu and other non-Muslim female students to wear a burka and hijab. In its inquiry conducted by the district education officer and the deputy collector, the district administration did not come up with any such complaint. We met school students and they denied that they were forced by the school administration to wear hijab. They said they used to wear scarves like hijab to cover themselves and their family has no objection to it. How can we take action without a complainant? deputy collector RL Bagri said on Wednesday. On Twitter, the district collector and superintendent of police (SP) made the same point that the inquiry hadnt come across any violation. Mustaq Mohammad, who runs the Ganga Jamna Higher Secondary School at the centre of the controversy, trashed the allegation. This is a baseless allegation that we forced the Hindu students to wear hijab. They used to wear the scarves themselves and even for the posters, the students provided the pictures. We never forced anyone to wear anything other than school uniform. Following the home ministers instructions, the district administration said it will carry out an in-depth inquiry. We will probe the matter and register the statement of the students and their parents to know the truth, Damoh SP Rakesh Kumar Singh said. Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPI(M) Rajya Sabha member John Brittas wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urging him to take cognizance of the growing menace of cyber financial frauds exploiting the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS). CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas. (File) Brittas said that the victims of such cyber crimes are usually innocent individuals and many of them are less educated and vulnerable. He also urged the PM to direct the Finance and Electronics & Information Technology ministries to oversee the matter. One of the primary tools employed by these new malefactors in their despicable crimes is the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS). Though intended as a bank-led model to promote financial inclusion in rural areas using Aadhaar authentication to allow online interoperable financial inclusion transactions, AePS has been deftly exploited to deceive the very people it was designed to assist. While AePS may not enjoy the same level of popularity as Unified Payments Interface (UPI), it is still pertinent to note that an average cash withdrawal of around 1000 crores is being carried out using this system every day. Brittas also mentioned how experts had highlighted the widespread availability of Aadhaar numbers and other details of people online in various forms and how this became a way for the fraudsters to target the people Experts have highlighted the widespread availability of Aadhaar numbers and other details online in various forms, such as scanned copies and digital records. It is discerned from various news reports that the fraudsters exploit this vulnerability by utilising silicon fingerprints and unauthorised biometric devices to gain access to the bank accounts. The systems inability to distinguish between a genuine live fingerprint and a synthetic silicon fingerprint represents a significant flaw that is being maliciously exploited, the MP said. Furthermore, despite the availability of masked Aadhaar cards and the option to lock Aadhaar cards in recent years, their adoption rate has been disturbingly low, particularly among the less educated segment of the population. Besides, there is growing public concern regarding the alleged leakage of biometric data stored by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Without swift and decisive action, we can only expect these incidents to escalate further, he added. A National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data showed that 52,974 cases of cybercrimes were registered in 2021, an increase of 11.8% as compared to the previous year. No cybercrime data for 2022 has been released by the NCRB as yet. Separate from the home ministry data over the three years leading up to March 2023, accessed by HT, the NCRB too registered a sharp spike in the number of cybercrimes. Reports revealed that 2022 had been the worst year so far for India when it comes to cyberattacks. Nearly 1.9 million cyberattacks against the healthcare industry in India were recorded from January to November 2022 while the number of cyber attacks against Indian government agencies doubled in 2022, making it the most targeted country in this sector. As Rahul Gandhi in his US speech on Wednesday slammed PM Modi and the BJP government and also referred to the furore over the new Parliament building inauguration, a massive war of words broke out between the BJP and the Congress leaders. BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonwalla called Rahul Gandhi an entitled dynast who mocked Tamil culture on foreign soil. "Dandavat Pranam was also mocked by Rahul as 'lying down' -- Rahul perhaps cares little for Indian way of showing respect," Poonawalla said. Rahul Gandhi during his interaction in San Francisco on the first day of his 10-day US tour said the BJP government can't discuss the real issues of the country like unemployment, price rise, the spread of hatred and that's why they have to do the 'sceptre thing', the 'lying down'. "Aren't you happy that I am not lying down?" Rahul Gandhi said referring to the Sengol row. Rahul Gandhi's first day first speech in the US drew flak in India as BJP leaders condemned his attack on PM Modi. "No less than the DMK govt document spoke of Sengol history and relevance but those who love symbols of Gulaami cannot digest this.. in their hatred for BJP they attack Bharatiya symbols, way of life itself !! Does the DMK agree with Rahul on the Sengol installation being called a drama?" Shehzad wrote taking a potshot at Congress's Tamil Nadu ally DMK. "Foreign puppet Rahul Gandhi yet again abuses Hindus and India on foreign soil. The 'Disqualified MP' calls inauguration of new parliament a 'distraction,' & discredits the Dharmic 'Sengol' by terming it a 'drama'. This is a testament to @INCIndia's hatred for the Idea of India, its millennia-old traditions & its cultural reawakening. Narendra Modi is Synonymous with Dharma whereas Rahul Gandhi represents Drama!" BJP Karnataka tweeted. Rahul Gandhi is a repeat offender as he insults India every time he goes abroad, Union minister Anurag Thakur said. "Rahul Gandhi aims to insult PM Modi but ends up hurting India. He does not even consider India as a country but as a union of states. What does Rahul Gandhi want to achieve by doing all this? See the difference. When PM Modi visits abroad, he meets the PMs and the Presidents of other countries. Australian PM called PM Modi 'Boss'; probably Rahul Gandhi could not digest this," Anurag Thakur said. Former Congress leader and now BJP spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill said Rahul Gandhi has got addicted to defaming India on foreign soil like the sharks are addicted to blood. "After losing 50 elections out 55 since 2014, Rahul Gandhi talks about BJP mediocrity. After crowning Jagdish Tytler, Rahul Gandhi says 'Sikhs are being attacked'...Rahul Gandhi's habit of speaking without homework is injurious for Nations image," Shergill tweeted. Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai said one has to be in the country to discuss real issues. "You got Jallikattu banned, and now you mock the rituals for the Sceptre done by Saiva Adheenams from TN. What your party cast away as a walking stick is today reinstated to its rightful place, Thiru @RahulGandhi," Annamalai wrote. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Enforcement Directorate (ED) late on Tuesday arrested a suspect after 11-hour interrogation in Kolkata in connection with an alleged school recruitment scam in West Bengal. Appointees allegedly paid bribes to get jobs after failing selection tests. (HT PHOTO) An ED official said Sujaykrishna Bhadra, who in March claimed to be working for ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee, is suspected to be linked with transactions of three companies allegedly involved in the laundering of money related to the alleged scam. On March 23, Bhadra called Banerjee his boss. He said since Banerjee cannot be touched, the agencies were targeting other people. Bhadra then said the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) questioned him in a coal smuggling case too. Bhadra was due to be produced before a court on Wednesday. He was arrested after he made conflicting statements in an apparent attempt to mislead the interrogators, a second ED official said. On May 20, ED raided 16 locations including Bhadras home in Kolkata, and said it seized documents of properties of three companies through which unaccounted money is suspected to have been siphoned off. The CBI this month questioned Banerjee for almost 10 hours in connection with the alleged recruitment scam. The Calcutta high court ordered the questioning after Kuntal Ghosh, another suspect and a former TMC leader, mentioned his name. Ghosh was arrested on January 21 and expelled from TMC later. In May 2022, the high court ordered the CBI to probe the appointments of non-teaching and teaching staff between 2014 and 2021. The appointees allegedly paid bribes to get jobs after failing the selection tests. The suspected involvement of TMC leaders surfaced when the ED arrested education minister Partha Chatterjee and his aide Arpita Mukherjee in July 2022. In its first charge sheet filed in September last year, ED said it traced cash, jewellery, and immovable property worth 103.10 crore linked to the two. Chatterjee was dropped from the government and suspended from TMC. After Bhadras arrest, opposition Bharatiya Janata Party leader Suvendu Adhikari tweeted: Nobody will be spared. The time is ticking. The government is committed to restoring peace in Manipur as soon as possible and ensuring the return of refugees to their homes, Union home minister Amit Shah said on Monday, completing the third day of his trip to the strife-torn state by visiting border regions and talking to groups on both sides of the ethnic divide. Union home minister Amit Shah visited relief camps in strife-torn Manipur on Wednesday. (Twitter/Amit Shah)(HT_PRINT) Shah visited the Kuki-dominated town of Moreh on the border with Myanmar and Kangpokpi district, one of the worst hit by the clashes that have left 80 people dead since May 3. He also went to relief camps in Kangpokpi and Imphal, and later held a security review meeting with top officials in the state capital. Our resolve remains focused on leading Manipur back to the track of peace and harmony once again and their return to their homes at the earliest, said a government statement, quoting Shah. The minister assured people in Moreh and Kangpokpi that the supply of essential items in hill areas and helicopter services for emergency needs in Churachandpur, Moreh and Kangpokpi will be ensured, the statement added. Shah arrived in Manipur on Monday night and held talks with chief minister N Biren Singh, senior officers, and governor Anasuiya Uikey. On Tuesday, he reviewed the security situation, held an all-party meeting and met delegations from Meitei and Kuki communities that are on either side of the raging conflict. Manipur has been convulsed by ethnic violence since May 3, with the bulk of the clashes between the Meitei community, which constitutes the majority of the states population and lives largely in Imphal, and the Kukis, who comprise 16% of the state and live largely in the hill districts. The visit is important in a state where ethnic divides run deep and where the local administration has repeatedly failed in quelling violence and building bridges between warring communities. The state government needs to dispel the perception of bias and focus on confidence-building measures and bring both sides to the negotiating table for forging a long-term solution. Shahs day began at the border town of Moreh, where deliberations went on for over an hour and civil society and Kuki groups submitted a list of demands, which included a separate administration for Kukis, withdrawal of Manipur police commandoes from Moreh, helicopter services connecting Moreh to Aizawl and Guwahati and outlawing of some controversial Meitei groups. We told the home minister that violent incidents are taking place despite his presence in Manipur and only implementation of Article 355 or 356 can stop this, said Lalboi Hriammi, joint secretary of the Kuki Chiefs Association (KSA) who met Shah at Moreh. We urged him to let the armed forces use lethal firepower against armed groups from both Kuki and Meitei communities. Let there be no distinction for the sake of peace, Hriammi added. Representatives from the Gorkha and Tamil communities also met Shah. In Kangpokpi, Shah met the Committee on Tribal Unity, Kuki Inpi Manipur, Kuki Student organisation, Thadou Inpi and civil society members. He also visited a Kuki relief camp and told refugees that the government was committed to ensuring their return home. Shah returned to Imphal later in the afternoon, held a security review meeting and also visited Meitei relief camp where he assured residents that the administration will facilitate their return, the government statement said. Home minister also held security review meeting with top officials in Imphal ,directed them to take stern and prompt actions to prevent violence, against armed miscreants and recover looted weapons to bring back normalcy at the earliest, the statement added. In a statement, Indigenous Tribal Leader Forum (ITLF), a conglomerate of Kuki tribes, alleged that radical Meitei groups indulged in coordinated looting of government weaponry in the heart of the state capital and used those arms to target Kuki villages along the Imphal Valley foothills. ITLF spokesperson Ginza Vualzong stated that incidents of firing took place at Sugnu in Kaching district on Wednesday as well. But there was no confirmation of any deaths or injuries from the authorities. ANY RESPONSE FROM GOVT OR MEITEI GROUPS? At least 80 people have died and another 40,000 displaced by ethnic violence between the tribal Kukis, who mostly reside in the hill districts, and the Meiteis, the dominant community in Imphal Valley. Clashes between the Kukis and Meiteis first erupted on May 3 during a protest against a court-ordered tweak to the states reservation matrix, granting scheduled tribe (ST) status to the latter. Violence quickly engulfed the state where ethnic fault lines run deep, displacing tens of thousands of people who fled burning homes and neighbourhoods into jungles, often across state borders. The authorities quickly clamped a curfew and suspended internet, pumping in additional security forces to force a break in the spiraling clashes. Internet is still not back in the state. But tensions were simmering for much longer, owing to the state governments decision to exit the tripartite accord and move against some forest dwelling groups it termed as encroachers. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Utpal Parashar Utpal is a Senior Assistant Editor based in Guwahati. He covers seven states of North-East India and heads the editorial team for the region. He was previously based in Kathmandu, Dehradun and Delhi with Hindustan Times. ...view detail An Indian Air Force strike force of four Rafale fighter jets took off from the Hasimara airbase in West Bengal, outmanoeuvred a large engagement force of hostile warplanes, and carried out a precision strike against a high value target in the strategic Indian Ocean region (IOR) in an exercise that showcased the air forces capability to strike far and strike hard, officials aware of the matter said on Wednesday. To be sure, no weapons were actually fired in the exercise. PREMIUM Four Rafale fighter jets took off from the Hasimara airbase in West Bengal (IAF Twitter) The development comes at a time when China is pushing for greater influence in the far seas and its warships are increasingly foraying into the IOR. The long-range mission lasted six hours and involved mid-air refuelling of the French-origin Rafales that have significantly boosted the capabilities of the IAF, the officials said. India ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in a government-to-government deal worth 59,000 crore in September 2016. The IAFs two Rafale squadrons are based at Hasimara and Ambala. The exercise was carried out a few days ago, but the IAF shared the first details of the long-distance simulated strike on Wednesday. In a tweet that was both clever and funny. #IAF stretching its legs. Four IAF Rafales flew a long-range mission for over six hours into the IOR. The aircraft fought their way through a large force engagement en route to their Weapon Release Point. Pickle on time, weapon on target-the IAF way! This is not the first time the Indian military has used Twitter to send a cheeky message to project power far from the countrys shores. The Indian Navy did so in April 2018 when it spotted a Chinese naval task force in the IOR. In two tweets, it sent a subtle but powerful message to the Chinese navy: You are being watched in the IOR. The Rafale fighter planes have sharpened the capabilities of the air force with their advanced weaponry, high-tech sensors, superior radar for detection and tracking of targets, and the ability to carry an impressive payload. The Rafale weaponry includes Meteor beyond visual range air-to-air missiles, Mica multi-mission air-to-air missiles, Hammer smart weapon, Scalp deep-strike cruise missiles --- weapons that allow fighter pilots to attack air and ground targets from standoff ranges. IAF has now been training regularly for long-range deep strikes using fighter planes, mid-air refuellers and airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, said Air Marshal Anil Chopra (retd), director general, Centre for Air Power Studies. The latest drill showcases the IAFs capabilities to strike targets anywhere in the IOR, from Persian Gulf to the Malacca Strait, Chopra added. The India-specific enhancements on the Rafale jets include cold engine start capability to operate from high-altitude bases such as Leh, radar warning receivers, flight data recorders with storage for 10 hours of data, infrared search and track systems, jammers and towed decoys to ward off incoming missiles. The twin-engine jet is capable of carrying out a variety of missions including ground and sea attack, air defence and air superiority, reconnaissance, and nuclear strike deterrence. It can carry 9 tonnes of weapons on as many as 14 hard points. IAFs Rafales recently debuted in an overseas exercise. The aircraft took part in Exercise Orion at the Mont-de-Marsan airbase in France from April 17 to May 5. The drills involved the air forces of France, the US, the UK, Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, and Spain. India is tracking developments in the IOR closely and is active in the region. From carrying out drills with like-minded countries to reaching out to states in the IOR, the Indian Navy is focusing on checking Chinas rising ambitions in the region and sending out a strong message that Beijings power play in South China Sea cannot be replicated in the Indian Ocean. In January 2020, India upgraded its capabilities to keep a watch on the strategically important IOR and deliver an offensive option swiftly, if necessary, with the IAF basing its front-line Sukhoi-30 fighters in southern India for the first time. IAF raised the new squadron of Su-30 MKI fighter jets at the Thanjavur air force station in Tamil Nadu. The fighters are equipped with the air-launched version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, a 2.5-tonne missile that flies at nearly three times the speed of sound. The cruise missile, the fastest in the world, provides IAF the capability to strike sea and land targets from stand-off ranges with pinpoint accuracy in all weather conditions. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in an address in the United States on Wednesday said India was being run by a group of people who were 'absolutely convinced' that they knew everything. They could sit down with God and explain things, Rahul Gandhi said adding that the prime minister is 'one such specimen'. "I think if you sat Modiji down next to God, Modiji would start explaining to God how the universe works. Right? And God would get confused that what have I created. These are funny things but this is what is going on. There's a group of people who understands everything. They can explain science to scientists, history to historians, warfare to the Army.. And at the heart of it is mediocrity, they actually don't understand anything. Because in life, you can not understand anything if you are not ready to listen," Rahul Gandhi said. Rahul Gandhi speaking in San Francisco on Wednesday. India has not rejected any idea, Rahul Gandhi said exhorting the NRIs at his address. "That's the India you represent. You would not be here if you did not agree with these values. If you believed in anger, hatred, and arrogance, you would be sitting in a BJP meeting and I would be doing 'mann ki baat'. So thank you very much for holding up the Indian Flag in India," Rahul Gandhi said. "Now they have asked me to answer your questions. This also would not happen in BJP. No question, only answers there," Rahul Gandhi said. Rahul Gandhi is on a 10-day visit to the US, his first stop being San Francisco. The next two will be Washington DC and New York. Rahul Gandhi's last foreign visit which was to the UK stirred a major controversy in India as he -- then an MP -- was accused of insulting Indian democracy on foreign soil. 'Aren't you happy that I am not lying down?': Rahul Gandhi PM Modi and his government can not address issues like unemployment, price rise, the spread of anger and hatred, and crumbling education system, Rahul Gandhi said. "The BJP can't really discuss these issues so they have to do the sceptre thing. You know lying down and doing all that. Aren't you happy that I am not lying down," Rahul Gandhi said referring to the Sengol controversy that surfaced with the inauguration of the new Parliament building. The Sengol symbolised transfer of power from the British to India in 1947 and was kept in a museum in Allahabad. The Sengol was installed in the new Parliament building. The Congress said there was no evidence of this. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON India Meteorological Department (IMD) director general M Mohapatra will be contesting the election for one of the three posts of vice-president of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) which is a core position in the UN agency for monitoring climate change, early warnings and disaster preparedness, officials said. IMD D-G Mohapatras election will allow India to influence the global policy on early warnings and disasters. (IMD) The WMO executive council comprises a secretary general and a president, three vice-presidents, six regional association presidents and 27 directors of National Meteorological or Hydrometeorological Services. The election for all the posts, which is held every four years, is scheduled to be held on Thursday. Mohapatras election, IMD officials said, will allow India to influence the global policy on earning warnings and disasters. Also Read:El Nino likely to bring extreme weather across world, says World Meteorological Organi India has played a pivotal role in WMO since the beginning, being a founding member. The election to the executive council will further enable India to provide guidance on policy and planning as well as executing various strategic plans and objectives. It would also help in strengthening Indias role in improving weather and climate services across the globe in general and in the region in particular, Mohapatra said on his candidacy from Geneva. Addressing the ongoing 19th WMO Congress on May 27, Mohapatra highlighted Indias achievements in meteorology and explained how the country managed to reduce loss of lives during cyclones. With the modernisation of the cyclone warning system in 2007, there was an improvement in forecast accuracy by 40% by 2020. As all of us know, the forecast accuracy by RSMC New Delhi has helped not only India but all the countries in the North Indian Ocean to minimise loss of lives to less than 100. The recent cyclone (Mocha) hitting Myanmar and Bangladesh coasts is a case in hand which demonstrates the capability of the region to minimise the loss of lives to less than 200 through response action by the government and people, he said. The WMO Congress is being held from May 22 to June 2. Notable contributions from India in recent years include severe weather guidance to countries through observational support from INSAT 3D and 3DR satellites, geospatial tool called Rapid being used by many countries, radars for neighbouring countries, seven global and regional climate models, tropical cyclone, thunderstorm, heavy rainfall, wind and waves forecast to all countries in North Indian Ocean region, south Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. India is also carrying out polar research, including in north and south poles, and earth system modelling for climate change studies and international monsoon programme. During the Congress, India has pledged support for WMOs Early Warning for All, Multi-Hazard Early Warning System, Impact Based Forecast & Risk Based Warnings and Global Data Processing and Forecasting System. Among important interventions made by the country during the Congress are that India will act as a peer advisor for systematic observation and forecasting facilities in least developed countries and small islands nations, and India will be willing to act as a regional climate centre for the Himalayan region as a whole. Meanwhile, WMO approved a new greenhouse gas monitoring initiative during the Congress. The initiative seeks to fill information gaps and provide a framework for all space-based and surface-based observing systems, as well as modelling and data assimilation capabilities. The Congress also decided to elevate the cryosphere to one of its top priorities, given the increasing impacts of diminishing sea ice, melting glaciers, ice sheets, permafrost and snow on sea level rise, water-related hazards and water security, economies and ecosystems, WMO said. WMOs top decision-making body also endorsed a new resolution, calling for more coordinated observations and predictions, data exchange, research and services. The resolution seeks to ramp up activities, with a proposed increase in funding for research related to polar and high mountain areas which affect small island states and densely populated coastal zones due to sea level rise contributed by glacier melts. Like WHO (World Health Organisation), WMO is the lead UN body for meteorological and hydrometeorological services. It was earlier called the International Meteorological Organization and India was a founding member, so India has been playing a big role in WMO activities. India is a regional player now because of our capacity for weather and climate services. We have seen the services provided by India to Myanmar and Bangladesh during Mocha. Being in the WMO secretariat will help us influence policy on climate change for the developing region, said M Rajeevan, former secretary, ministry of earth sciences. NEW DELHI: India and China held another round of diplomatic talks on Wednesday on the dragging standoff on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), with the only outcome being a decision to hold the next round of discussions between military commanders at an early date. This undated photograph released by Indian Army on February 16, 2021 shows PLA soldiers and tanks during military disengagement along the Line of Actual Control at the India-China border in Ladakh. (AFP) The 27th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China border affairs was held in-person in New Delhi, the external affairs ministry said in a statement. While noting that restoring peace and tranquillity will create conditions for normalising bilateral relations, the statement said: In order to achieve this objective, in accordance with existing bilateral agreements and protocols, they agreed to hold the next (19th) round of Senior Commanders meeting at an early date. The military standoff on the LAC, currently in its fourth year, has taken India-China ties to their lowest ebb in six decades. Soon after the standoff emerged in the open, a brutal clash at Galwan Valley killed 20 Indian soldiers and at least four Chinese troops in June 2020. In the face of calls from the Chinese side for the border row to be placed in its appropriate place in bilateral relations, external affairs minister S Jaishankar has maintained that relations cannot be normalised till peace and tranquillity are restored along the LAC. During the WMCC meeting, the two sides reviewed the situation along the LAC in the Western Sector of India-China border areas and discussed proposals for disengagement in remaining areas in a frank and open manner, the statement said. Restoration of peace and tranquillity will create conditions for normalising bilateral relations, the statement said. The two sides also agreed to continue discussions through military and diplomatic channels. The joint secretary (East Asia) from the external affairs ministry led the Indian delegation at the meeting, while the Chinese team was led by the director general of the boundary and oceanic affairs department of the foreign ministry. The Indian Army and Chinas Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) held the 18th round of senior commanders talks on April 23 to ease tensions along the LAC. Prior to this, the two sides had held talks between the corps commanders in December 2022 to discuss outstanding issues along the border. Despite four rounds of disengagement of frontline troops at Galwan Valley, Pangong Lake, Gogra and Hot Springs, the Indian and Chinese armies still have more than 60,000 troops each and advanced weaponry deployed in the Ladakh theatre. Prominent among the remaining friction points along the LAC are Depsang and Demchok. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON India conducted Asias first demonstration of performance-based navigation for helicopters for a flight from Juhu in Mumbai to Pune using GAGAN satellite technology, civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said on Wednesday. Union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said it is a fine example of the Indian aviation sector blazing a trail in innovation! (ANI) GAGAN GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation is a state-of-the-art space-based augmentation system which adds more accuracy to output of GPS Navigation system by providing local geographical positioning for better accuracy of location of aircraft for more efficient traffic management. The technology was jointly developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI). In a Twitter post on Wednesday, Scindia said it is a fine example of the Indian aviation sector blazing a trail in innovation! He added, India conducts Asias first demonstration for Performance-Based Navigation for helicopters. The flight from Juhu to Pune made use of the #GAGAN satellite technology that enhances accuracy, allowing for high quality air traffic management. Congratulations @AAI_Official. The satellite technology helps aircraft/ helicopters with guided landing at airports that do not have instrument landing systems for low-visibility operations. All registered aircraft in India will have to comply with GAGAN which was introduced in 2019 by December 2025. The test flight operated between Mumbai and Pune was facilitated by the Juhu airport officials, an AAI official told HT. The outcomes, however, will be studied further. Experts termed the development a big leap for Indian aviation sector. Helicopters which fly at much lower levels are always at risk for locational inaccuracy specially in case of accidents for search and rescue operations. Now, they have successfully completed trials, which a big leap for Indian aviation sector, said former defence pilot and aviation expert Vipul Saxena. This will enhance better traffic management of both aircraft and helicopters in Indian air space. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Chinas expansion of airfields along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 2020 has created capabilities for its military to conduct a wider range of operations, and to counter Indias comparative advantages in some areas, according to an analysis of satellite imagery. PREMIUM China has embarked on a massive expansion of airfields along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since 2020. The changes on the ground since the military standoff on the LAC began in May 2020 show that China has embarked on a massive expansion of airfields, helipads, railway facilities, missile bases, roads and bridges, both for the faster deployment of troops and to create a range of offensive capabilities. An analysis of satellite images exclusively provided to Hindustan Times by Planet Labs of airfields at Hotan, Ngari Gunsa and Lhasa shows the Chinese side has either expanded these facilities by building new runways, hardened shelters designed to protect combat jets, and construction of new support and military operations buildings. These three Chinese airfields were chosen for analysis because of their locations opposite strategic positions on the Indian side and use in current operations amid the standoff with India, which has taken bilateral relations to a six-decade low. A brutal clash at Galwan Valley in June 2020 killed 20 Indian soldiers and an unspecified number of Chinese troops the first fatalities along the LAC in 45 years. Indian officials declined to comment on the analysis. India has made it clear to China during bilateral interactions and meetings on margins of international forums this year that normalcy along the LAC is essential for normal bilateral relations. Hotan airfield in southwestern Xinjiang is located about 400km, in a straight line, from Leh, capital of the Union territory of Ladakh. Hotan airfield was last expanded in 2002. A satellite image from June 2020 showed no construction or development in the area near the airfield, and an existing aircraft apron with combat jets. A satellite image from May 2023 shows Hotan airfield has a new runway, new aircraft and military operations support buildings and a new apron. These upgrades are supported by the construction of additional munitions storage sites not far from the airfield. Recent satellite images of the airfield have shown unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operating from Hotan, and the Chengdu J-20, a stealth fighter, has been deployed at this airfield amid the standoff. Ngari Gunsa airfield in Tibet Autonomous Region is located 200km, in a straight line, from Pangong Lake, which has witnessed several skirmishes between Indian and Chinese forces and where the Chinese side is building a key bridge. The airfield started operations in 2010 and was expanded after the 2017 standoff at Doklam. At that time, combat jets were stationed at the airfield. A satellite image from June 2020 showed only one aircraft apron with combat jets. An image from May this year shows a new taxiway and improvements to the runway. There are also at least 16 new hardened aircraft shelters and new aircraft and military operations support buildings. This airfield, too, shows the presence of UAVs. Ngari Gunsa has served as a key logistics hub for Chinese forces, acting as a node between areas south of Aksai Chin to deployments further within Tibet. The airport at Lhasa, the administrative capital of Tibet Autonomous Region, has for long been a dual-use facility. Though it is not in the western sector of LAC, it is located less than 250km, in a straight line, from Tawang, which is at the centre of Chinese claims in the eastern sector. A satellite image from May 2020 showed combat jets on an existing aircraft apron. An image from May this year showed a new runway and a new apron under construction, at least 30 new hardened aircraft shelters, and new support buildings. Satellite imagery from recent years has shown the construction of underground facilities south of the Lhasa airfield, as well as a radar and electronic warfare unit and an air defence unit. The developments observed at these three airfields and others along the border region clearly indicate Chinas strategic intention to bolster its military capabilities and offset Indias advantages in the area, said Damien Symon, geo-intelligence researcher at The Intel Lab. The ongoing construction activities, along with significant and diverse deployments at these sites, including the use of UAVs and advanced aircraft, underscore Chinas efforts to enhance its offensive capabilities, especially in light of the active border situation with India, he said. It is crucial to recognise these developments fundamentally transform the dynamics of air warfare, extending Chinas operational range and presenting challenges to Indias deterrence strategies, Symon added. Air Vice Marshal (retired) Manmohan Bahadur, an aviator who served in the Ladakh region, said the Chinese side has used the past three years to find ways to counter the Indian Air Forces (IAF) comparative advantages in the region. The IAF could carry the war to them because of these advantages. Most of the Indian airbases are along the foothills and the aircraft could take off with larger [weapons] payload, Bahadur said. Lt Gen (retired) Rakesh Sharma, former commander of the Ladakh corps responsible for Kargil, Siachen glacier and eastern Ladakh, said many Chinese airfields across the LAC initially didnt have hardened aircraft shelters, long runways or ammunition storage facilities. They have got over this problem. Their runways are longer, the aircraft are safe and can take off with heavier payloads, Sharma said. This is all part of a planned move. There are reports that the Chinese side has positioned a substantial number of cruise missiles in this area that can be used against targets up to 2,000 km away, he added. Bahadur said China has created a large number of airfields along the LAC, from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh, plugging the gaps which existed between military airbases. This also leads to an improvement in their redundancy factor, he said, referring to the capability of having more airfields to take over in the event any airbase is knocked out in an enemy attack. Both Bahadur and Sharma described the construction of hardened shelters as a significant development. Earlier, the number of hardened shelters was literally zero.They have also set up radar and surface-to-air missiles systems, increasing the risks for the IAF to go [across], Bahadur said. Sim Tack, geo-intelligence analyst at Force Analysis, said hardened shelters at each airbase may impact Indias efforts to deter or defend against Chinese air power. Not only do these shelters provide survivability to Chinese aircraft deployed within range of disputed territories, increasing the complexity of strikes against them, but another important consequence is that they help obscure the actual presence of fighters. By storing fighter aircraft under cover, China is able to better conceal its deployments, or lack thereof, to these forward airbases, he said. This can result in India expending additional resources to assess Chinese air power in the region, he added. The Indian side, Bahadur said, depended on deterrence by punishment and the new and expanded airfields and air defence capabilities would dilute this capability. The Chinese facilities, Sharma said, have changed the character of air warfare in the region. From Kashgar [in Xinjiang], Chinese jets can overfly Gilgit-Baltistan and Srinagar is in range. The airfields in Tibet Autonomous Region are a bonus that have taken away a portion of Indias advantage, he added. India and China have been unable to resolve all friction points in Ladakh sector of the LAC despite more than two dozen rounds of military and diplomatic talks, and external affairs minister S Jaishankar has insisted that bilateral ties cannot be normalised without peace and tranquillity on the border. A mural in the new Parliament building that depicts ancient sites such as Lumbini and Kapilvastu has kicked off a storm of protests in Nepal, ahead of the visit of Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal to India on Wednesday. Akhand Bharat mural in the new Parliament. (ANI) Read here: Power trade, cooperation in legal matters on agenda for Nepal PMs visit The mural, which the designers of the new parliament complex say portrays the influence of ancient Indian thought, has been referred to by some Indian politicians as a representation of Akhand Bharat, or unified India, that includes parts of several neighbouring countries such as Nepal, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Nepals political leaders urged Dahal, also known as Prachanda, to raise the matter with Indian officials and seek the removal of the mural. Former prime minister KP Sharma Oli was among the leaders who raised the issue on Tuesday. That is not fair, Oli, the leader of the main opposition CPN-UML party, was quoted as saying by The Kathmandu Post. If a country like India that sees itself as an ancient and strong country and as a model of democracy puts Nepali territories in its map and hangs the map in Parliament, it cannot be called fair, he said at his partys headquarters. Oli added, The prime minister is going to India tomorrow. He should ask them to remove the mural. [Dahal has] to talk to the Indian government to correct that mistake. There is no point in visiting India if you cant do that. Dahal assured his partys lawmakers he will ask Indian officials about the mural. He gave the assurance after some lawmakers took exception to the mural during a parliamentary party meeting held to discuss the visit to India. Read here: As Prachanda arrives, focus on economic ties Sacred Sites For Buddhists Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Kapilvastu, an ancient city that was the capital of the Shakya rulers, was the childhood home of Buddha. The mural in the new Parliament building was referred to as a depiction of Akhand Bharat in tweets posted by parliamentary affairs minister Pralhad Joshi and Lok Sabha BJP member Manoj Kotak. National Gallery of Modern Art director general Adwaita Gadanayak, who played a role in selecting artworks displayed in the new building, told the media that the mural depicts the influence of Indian thought in ancient times in areas ranging from present day Afghanistan to southeastern Asia. Testy Issue The government headed by Oli triggered a border row in 2020 after it published a new political map of Nepal that showed Kalapani, Limpiyadhura and Lipulekhall controlled by Indiaas part of Nepalese territory. The map was issued after India built a new road to the strategic region on the border with China. Akhand Bharat' mural in Parliament goes viral; Modi Govt says 'resolve clear' | Watch The row impacted bilateral relations for several months and ties were restored to an even keel after visits to Kathmandu by several senior Indian officials. NEW DELHI: The inauguration of some railway facilities and forward movement on transit power trade with Bangladesh are expected to be among the key outcomes of Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahals four-day visit to India that began on Wednesday. Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal (left) will meet PM Narendra Modi (right) on Thursday (File Photo) Dahal, who arrived in New Delhi for his first trip since becoming prime minister last December, is also expected to present a wish list to the Indian side, including the opening of more air routes to Indian cities and greater cooperation in the power sector, people familiar with the matter said. Several agreements are expected to be signed when Dahal holds talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on Thursday. Dahal is expected to meet President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, external affairs minister S Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. Dahal will visit Indore in Madhya Pradesh on June 2 to study the citys cleanliness and waste management initiatives before returning home the following day. Dahal and Modi are expected to remotely inaugurate a railway yard at Biratnagar in Nepal and the Jaynagar-Janakpur rail link that has been expanded to Bijalpura, the people said. The Nepalese side is expected to press India for the opening of new air routes, specifically new entry points for international flights, they said. The two sides are also expected to make forward movement on the issue of transit power trade by Nepal via Indian territory, especially the sale of power to Bangladesh, the people said. Some understandings and agreements in the field of energy are expected to be finalised during the talks on Thursday. One of the key focus areas will be deepening power sector cooperation through new initiatives. Nepal has been exporting more than 450 MW of electricity to India, one of the people cited above said. Indian companies have shown interest in developing hydropower projects in Nepal. India was the partner country for Nepals Power Summit in April and there was strong participation by Indian firms in the event. Nepal and Bangladesh have been pressing India to allow transit power trade. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina raised the issue of the import of power from Nepal and Bhutan through India while visiting New Delhi last September. The issue also figured in Nepal foreign minister Narayan Prakash Sauds visit to Dhaka in mid-May, when he urged Bangladeshi firms to invest in his countrys hydropower sector. Dahal said ahead of his departure that he will try to secure a stable market for electricity produced in Nepal. As there was no big market for electricity, we could not produce more power and this has deterred big investors from coming to Nepal... History will remember us if we can open an electricity trade route with Bangladesh, Dahal was quoted as saying by The Kathmandu Post. Saud also told a news conference on Tuesday that Nepal will seek Indias permission for energy trade with Bangladesh. Saud said Nepal is keen to amend and consolidate an existing transit treaty. We have an open border with India and we are doing trade with third countries and China via Indian ports and territory, so we need to incorporate some new provisions in the transit treaty, he said. The meeting between the two prime ministers will be an opportunity to discuss multi-dimensional economic, energy and infrastructure connectivity, and to review the development partnership. India is pursuing several large infrastructure projects in Nepal, such as Arun III hydropower project, Gorakhpur-Butwal 400 kV cross-border line, and the integrated check posts at Nepalgunj-Rupaidiha and Bhairahawa-Sunauli. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A large space spread over two floors for the Prime Ministers Office (PMO), a separate office for the Special Protection Group (SPG), and room for all the central ministers are being prepared in the new Parliament Building inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on May 28, according to officials familiar with the matter. The new Parliament building was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. (AFP) The officials, who asked not to be named, added that only essential parliamentary departments such as the table office, which handles the daily agenda and all documents of the House, the legislation branch that deals with all bills of the House, the notice office, where members and ministers submits their notices for agenda, and the parliamentary reporters branch, which is responsible for the verbatim reporting of the proceedings, will shift to the new building. The bulk of the current workforce will continue to operate from its existing offices in the upper floors of the old building, library building and the parliament annex, one of the officials added. Also Read: New Parliament is made with all colours of India; Check what comes from where The Monsoon session, usually held in July, is likely to be held in the new Parliament, and officials expect most of the ongoing work to be completed by then. The officials said that the shifting of the essential parliamentary machinery to the new building may take some time as the construction-related work is not yet over. Final touches are being given in many areas. The outer perimeter wall is being constructed and the office rooms in the upper floors are still being prepared, said a second official. A third official added that office rooms in the new building have already been allotted to the departments and officials but we are not moving there anytime soon as the new offices are not fully ready. Also Read| 'Trouble for PM, BJP in coming times: Gehlot on new parliament inauguration boycott In the existing building, completed in 1927, the Prime Ministers Office consists of only two rooms on the ground floor. SPG operates from a small room at the basement. There is an urgent need for a bigger space for PMO in the new building. In the old building, top-ranking PMO officials are allotted only a table and a chair, said a senior parliamentary functionary who asked not to be named. In the old building, only the Cabinet ministers, numbering 30, and some ministers of state were alloted independent offices. In the new building, all ministers (77) will get their own office, the officials said. The Central Vista redevelopment plan also includes offices for all MPs in a new building that will replace the Shram Shakti Bhavan near Parliament complex, although work on this is yet to start. The second official said that after parliamentary departments start shifting to the new building, offices for political parties and seats for MPs will be allotted on a priority basis. Around 19 parties currently have their offices in the old building. All of them will be given offices in the new building. The seats or division number of many MPs too, will undergo changes as per the new seating arrangement. With work still going on, there is no timeline for shifting of offices to the new Parliament, the officials said. Most of the parliamentary officers are still not allowed to visit the new building due to ongoing works. But we expect the premises to be ready for us by the end of June. Before we move, the bigger task is to set up the network and IT system in the new offices. Some of the offices, which currently occupy premium space on the ground floor, might be shifted to basement in the new building, said a fourth official. In the present Parliament building, there is a provision for sitting of 543 members in the Lok Sabha and 250 in the Rajya Sabha. Keeping in view the future requirements, arrangements have been made for a meeting of 888 members in the Lok Sabha while 384 members in the Rajya Sabha in the newly constructed building of the Parliament, a communique said. The joint session of both the Houses will be held in Lok Sabha Chamber, which can accommodate a total of 1,280 MPs. The additional seating capacity takes into account the possible delimitation exercise after 2026. The current size of the Lok Sabha, fixed at 545, is based on the 1971 census. With the freeze on the current size ending in 2026, the number of seats might increase as per the first census after 2026 based on the steep jump in population. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Saubhadra Chatterji Saubhadra Chatterji is Deputy Political Editor at the Hindustan Times. He writes on both politics and policies. ...view detail The Delhi Police on Wednesday refuted reports which claimed that there has been no adequate evidence against Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. "Several media channels are running a story that the Delhi Police hasn't found sufficient evidence in the cases registered against the Ex-President of WFI and a final report in the matter is due to be submitted before the concerned Court. It is to clarify that this news is "wrong" and the investigation into this sensitive case is under progress with all sensitivity," the Delhi Police clarified. Delhi Police said reports which claimed that there has been enough evidence against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh are wrong. What Brij Bhushan Singh said after wrestlers threatened to throw medals in Ganga The clarification from the Delhi Police came after ANI reported citing Delhi Police sources that Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh can't be arrested as the protesting wrestlers have been demanding as there is not sufficient evidence against him in the sexual harassment case, news agency ANI reported citing Delhi Police sources. "Till now, we have not found sufficient evidence to arrest Brij Bhushan Singh. Within 15 days we'll be filing our report in court. It could be in the form of chargesheet or final report. There is no supportive evidence to prove wrestlers' claim," ANI reported quoting top sources. Will Babita Phogat sit with those who exploited her family members: Smriti Irani The investigating officer can not arrest Brij Bhushan, who is also a six-time BJP MP, as the sections of the POCSO added in the FIR has fewer than seven years imprisonment, the ANI reported. "Neither he is influencing the witness nor he is destroying the evidence," it said. The protest of the top wrestlers of the country escalated on Sunday after the wrestlers were detained by Delhi Police as they were protesting outside the new Parliament building. On Tuesday, the wrestlers announced that they would immerse their medals in Haridwar's Ganga as their demand for Brij Bhushan's arrest was not being met. The wrestlers were stopped by farmer leader Naresh Tikait who sought a five-day deadline from the wrestlers. 'If a single allegation against me...' Brij Bhushan on Wednesday reiterated his innocence and said if a single allegation against him is proved, he will hand himself. "If you (wrestlers) have any evidence, present it to the Court and I am ready to accept any punishment... it's been four months, but the government is not hanging me..they are now going to the Ganga to immerse their medals. Immersing the medals won't get me hanged. This is just an emotional drama," Brij Bhushan said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The ongoing turmoil in Manipur is primarily an ethnic clash and is not related to counter-insurgency, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan said on Tuesday, three days after the states chief minister N Biren Singh said 40 Kuki terrorists were killed by forces and characterised the fresh violence as one between militants and security personnel, not between communities. Security personnel on a route march at Churachandpur in Manipur on Tuesday. (PTI) Chauhan also told reporters in Pune that the challenges in the northeastern state, which has been on the boil since violence first broke out on May 3, have not disappeared, but expressed hope that the situation will settle down in some time. This particular situation in Manipur has nothing to do with counter-insurgency and is primarily a clash between two ethnicities. Its a law and order kind of situation and we are helping the state government, Chauhan, who was in Pune to review the passing out parade of the 144th course of the National Defence Academy (NDA), said. At least 80 people have died and another 40,000 displaced by ethnic violence between the tribal Kukis, who mostly reside in the hill districts, and the Meiteis, the dominant community in Imphal Valley. On Monday, Union home minister Amit Shah arrived in the state to defuse the tension that flared up last week after a brief lull. The CDS also said that armed forces were deployed for counter-insurgency operations in Manipur before 2020. But, he added, the forces were withdrawn later as the situation in the state normalised and the challenges along the northern border increased, an apparent reference to China. The army and Assam Rifles were deployed in Manipur before 2020. Since the challenges of the northern borders were far more, we were able to withdraw the Army. Since the insurgency situation had normalised, we were able to do that But right now, we are in a different situation altogether, trying to separate the communities fighting because of ethnic issues, he added. The CDS expressed hope that the situation in the northeastern state will settle down in some time. I would like to say that the armed forces and Assam Rifles have done an excellent job and saved a large number of lives. The challenges in Manipur have not gone, they have not disappeared. It will take some time but hopefully the issue should settle down and the state government will be able to do its job. Our focus then will be back to deal with the challenges which have not yet disappeared along the northern border. Thats important for us, Chauhan said. Clashes between the Kukis and Meiteis first erupted on May 3 during a protest against a proposed tweak to the states reservation matrix, granting scheduled tribe (ST) status to the latter. Violence quickly engulfed the state where ethnic fault lines run deep, displacing tens of thousands of people who fled burning homes and neighbourhoods into jungles, often across state and international borders. The authorities quickly clamped a curfew and suspended internet, pumping in additional security forces to force a break in the spiraling clashes. Internet is still not back in the state. Since then, the state has witnessed sporadic violence, with the army and paramilitary forces along with state police scrambling to restore normalcy. On Sunday, Singh had said that 40 Kuki militants were killed in a coordinated security operation in Imphal valley in four days and that the latest round of conflict was not between communities, but between Kuki militants and security forces. There were instances of militants armed with AK-47s, M-16s and sniper rifles firing at civilians, Singh said, stressing that these are not Kuki militants, but terrorists. Singh said that the crackdown was against Kuki militant groups that in 2008 had signed a suspension of operations agreement with the Centre and the state government confining their cadres to designated camps. But Singhs statements triggered outrage among Kuki groups and community leaders, who pointed out that the state government had unilaterally walked out of the tripartite pact earlier this year, and blamed two radical Meitei groups Arambai Tenggol and Meitei Leepun for the violence. In a statement on Monday, the Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum (ITLF), a Kuki organisation, said: Such serious claims (that 40 Kuki militants were killed) cannot be made without proper evidence... We demand that he (CM) provide the names of those militants and the groups they belong to. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The last nine years of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Union government were dedicated to the service of citizens and good governance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday, as he accused the previous Congress governments of misguiding and depriving the poor. Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a public meeting in Rajasthans Ajmer on Wednesday. (PTI) Addressing a public rally at Ajmer in Rajasthan, the prime minister said Indias achievements are being praised across the world, whereas the Congress governments of the past used to take 85% commission from money meant for development. We have given 29 lakh crore to the poor through direct benefit transfer. If Congress government would have been there, then 24 lakh crore would have been lootedThe Congress loots every community, he alleged. The BJP government has fast-tracked development in the last nine years because we are shutting paths of corruption paved by the Congress. Also Read: Congress's campaignjeevi jibe as Modi sounds poll bugle in Rajasthan The prime minister also took a dig at the Congress-led state government during the rally, which is seen as the beginning of the BJPs campaign for the crucial assembly elections in Rajasthan scheduled for later this year. In 2018, people gave their mandate in Rajasthan. But what did Rajasthan get? Instability and anarchy. Legislators, minsters and chief minister have spent the last five years fighting. Congress is not bothered about the people, Modi said. He was referring to the differences between chief minister Ashok Gehlot and his former deputy Sachin Pilot that have rolled the Congresss state unit for the last four years. The conflict between Gehlot and Pilot dates back to December 2018 when both lobbied for the CMs post after the Congress returned to power in Rajasthan. In July 2020, Pilot and 18 other party MLAs revolted against Gehlots leadership. Also Read: In California, Rahul Gandhi slams BJP, RSS, Modi for assaulting idea of India Modi also attacked the Congress for boycotting the inauguration of the new Parliament building on Sunday. The new Parliament was unveiled three days back but the Congress and some like-minded parties did petty politics over it, he said. It was a proud moment for India but the opposition parties sacrificed it for their selfish political motives. The Congress was among 22 parties that boycotted the inauguration of the new Parliament building by the prime minister, claiming the government had insulted President Droupadi Murmu by not inviting her to do the honours. The Ajmer rally was part of a month-long celebratory programme drawn up by the BJP to mark nine years in governance. The government led by the BJP was sworn in for a second time on May 30, 2019, after it returned to power with a thumping majority winning 303 out of the 543 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. The party has dubbed the tenure as nine years of seva, sushasan and gareeb kalyan (service, good governance and welfare of the poor). The prime minister accused the Congress of following a policy of misleading the poor and keeping them deprived during its rule. The Congress made the promise of garibi hatao (remove poverty) 50 years ago, but it turned out to be their biggest betrayal to the poor, he said. It has been a policy of the Congress to mislead the poor and keep them deprived. The people of Rajasthan have also suffered a lot due to this. Asking people to be wary of Congresss guarantees, Modi said: To cover its misgovernance, the Congress evolved the formula of fake guarantees. They gave a guarantee to farmers in Rajasthan too, that in 10 days they would give loan waiver did Congress fulfil its promise? Modi also accused the Congress of betraying ex-servicemen in the name of One Rank One Pension for 40 years. The BJP government not only implemented One Rank One Pension but also gave arrears to ex-servicemen, he said. Recalling the Congress-led UPA regime before 2014, Modi said the country was then witnessing protests against corruption and terrorist attacks while the Congress ran the government by remote control. You changed everything with your one vote in 2014. The entire world is talking about the development of India now, he said. Modi also listed out his governments achievements. He said the BJP government has improved health and education facilities, built homes and gave gas connections and piped water to lakhs of people. Congress spokesperson RC Choudhary, however, said PM Modis speech left the people of Rajasthan disappointed. We thought he would make some announcement for Rajasthan but the PM gave nothing. It was from Ajmer that the PM had announced the ERCP [Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project] in October 2018. But he made no mention of it now, he said. The PM has only given hateful slogans and false promises, Choudhary said. In 2018, the people of Rajasthan voted out the BJP from the state. In 2024, the people will vote out the BJP from the Centre. Political analyst Manish Godha said through the PM rally, which was attended by former chief minister Vasundhara Raje, state BJP president CP Joshi and leader of opposition Rajendra Rathore, among others, the BJP tried to send a message of unity. The PM has made it clear that the BJP will target the Congress for corruption and misgovernance. His second visit to the state in 10 days shows the partys importance to the western Indian state that goes to polls in December, said Godha. PM Modi in Ajmer, Rajasthan Highlights: PM Modi launched "Maha Jansampark" campaign of the BJP by addressing a public meeting in Ajmer, Rajasthan. Under the Maha Jan Sampark campaign, scheduled to be held from May 31 (today) to June 30, extensive public programmes will be done across the country after the completion of 9 yrs at the Centre. Over 51 huge rallies, public meetings at more than 500 places, and over 600 press conferences in over 500 Lok Sabha and 4000 Vidhan Sabha constituencies will be conducted along with over 5 lakh distinguished families will be contacted. Poll strategist Sunil Kanugolu, who played a key role in the victory of Congress in Karnataka assembly election, has been appointed as chief advisor to chief minister Siddaramaiah, officials familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. Poll strategist Sunil Kanugolu (HT) According to the officials, in his new role as chief advisor with the rank of a cabinet minister he will provide guidance to the chief minister, facilitating effective decision-making and governance. Originally from Bellary, Kanugolu was previously affiliated with election strategist Prashant Kishor. After Kishor declined the Congresss offer to join the party on April 26 last year, Kanugolu was roped in to help with the partys election strategy for various polls across India. Ahead of Karnataka polls, Kanugolu played a pivotal role in devising the campaign strategy of Congress. Calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a specimen of a group that believes it knows it all, even more than God, without understanding anything, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) combine is attacking the Indian way of life, the idea of India and the Indian constitution. He also said that India today was not a fair place for Dalits, tribals, minorities, and the poor. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at an interaction at the University of California, Santa Cruz. (PTI) Speaking to members of the Indian diaspora in California hours after his arrival for a six-day visit to the United States (US), Gandhi alleged that the government did everything possible to stop his Bharat Jodo Yatra. He reiterated his support for a caste census with the objective of doing an x-ray of India to understand its demographics and distribute power and wealth more effectively. And while agreeing with a comment that Indian Muslims were most directly at the receiving end of hatred and aggression, the Congress leader claimed that all minorities and the poor today in India were under attack. Even as Gandhi said he needed to understand the details of a possible delimitation exercise better before commenting, he cautioned against any flippant change in the representational structure and called for a fair process of negotiations. He claimed the issue of sceptre or the Prime Minister lying down in Parliament in a reference to Narendra Modi carrying the Sengol and prostrating during prayers during the new buildings inauguration were distractions from real issues of unemployment and price rise that the BJP didnt want to discuss. In his opening remarks at the event, Gandhi said that Indian tradition and its political and spiritual leaders emphasised that it was important not to be under the impression that one knew everything. The world is too big and complicated for any person to know everything. That is the diseaseThere is a group of people in India who are absolutely convinced they know everything. They think they know more than God. They can sit with God and explain to him whats going on. Our PM is one such specimen. If you sat Modiji with God, he will explain to God how the universe works and God will get confused about what have I created. Gandhi suggested that this group will explain science to scientists, history to historians, warfare to the army, and flying to the air force. At the heart of it is mediocrity. They actually dont understand anything. Because you cant understand till you listen. Gandhi arrived in San Francisco on Tuesday morning and was received by Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda, who, along with Congress data analytics cell chief Praveen Chakravarty, is coordinating Gandhis visit to the US. Gandhi is scheduled to speak at Stanford University on the theme of a new global equilibrium on Wednesday. On June 1, he will head to Washington DC where he will speak at the National Press Club, interact with think tanks at a closed-door Hudson Institute event, engage in meetings on Capitol Hill, and attend a private dinner hosted by prominent Indian-American diaspora figure Frank Islam. On June 3 and 4, Gandhi will be in New York where he will meet intellectuals and academics, artists and cultural figures and address the diaspora at a public meeting. His visit just comes weeks before Modi heads to the US for a state visit at President Joe Bidens invitation. The rationale and impact of Bharat Jodo Yatra At the diaspora event in San Francisco on Tuesday evening, Gandhi began by speaking about the Bharat Jodo Yatra. We were finding that the normal tools we used for politics conversations like this, public meetings were simply not working. All the instruments we needed to do politics were controlled by BJP and RSS. People are threatenedagencies are used on people. In some way, it had become difficult to act politically. And thats why we decided to walk from the southernmost tip of India to Srinagar. Gandhi claimed that they did not feel any fatigue despite walking 25 km a day for India was walking with them. That is where, he claimed, they came up with the idea of shops of love opening in a market of hatred, the theme of the diaspora event. As a set of protesters suddenly chanted slogans against Gandhi, he paused for a moment, turned to them, and said, The interesting thing about us is we have affection towards everyone. If someone wants to come and say something, regardless of what they are saying, we are happy to listen. We wont get angry, wont get aggressive. Gandhi then alleged that the government did everything to stop the Yatra, including using the police, but the effect of the Yatra kept increasing. And that was because, he claimed, Bharat Jodo was an idea in everyones hearts. It is about respecting each other and being affectionate to each other. Not being violent, not being arrogant. Gandhi suggested that much before them, Guru Nanak, Basavanna in Karnataka, Narayana Guru in Kerala, and Adi Sankaracharya had done the same and appealed for the need to listen to each other. This is when Gandhi turned to attack the government. The assault that is taking place in India is on our way of life. After referring to Modi thinking he knew it all, Gandhi said that India always displayed an ability to welcome ideas, embrace them, and absorb them. India respects the rest of the world. It listens. It is humble. Telling the representatives of the diaspora that they wouldnt be at the event if they didnt believe in those values, Gandhi said, to applause and laughter, If you believe in anger, hatred, arrogance, you would be sitting in a BJP meeting. And I would be doing Mann ki Baat. He then lauded members of the diaspora for being the ambassadors of India, holding up the Indian flag in America, showing the American people what it meant to be Indian, respecting their culture, learning from them, and allowing them to learn from the diaspora. The politics of religion and caste identities Gandhi then took a set of questions from representatives of community organisations, including Tamil, Muslim, Christian, Dalit women, and student outfits that had helped organise the event. In response to a question on the treatment of Muslims in India and the increased security threat perceived by the community, Gandhi said, It is felt most strongly by the Muslim community because it is done most directly to them. But it is being done to all minorities. The same way you are feeling attacked, I can guarantee that my Sikh brothers, Christian brothers, Dalit and tribal community are feeling the same thing. Anyone who is poor in India today looks at the extreme wealth that a few people have feels the same way. Gandhi then said that the only way to challenge hatred was through love and affection, and suggested that through his Yatra, he had discovered, to his surprise, how easy it was to erase hatred in India. Indian people dont believe in this stuff, hating each other, killing each other. It is a small group of people who have got control of the system, the media and are supported by big money. This isnt a large mass of people. I can guarantee to you there are more people who believe in love than hatred, millions of more people, Gandhi said, urging the questioner not to be pessimistic. He added that India goes through these periods sporadically, and alluded to a phase in Uttar Pradesh in the 1980s when Dalits underwent similar attacks. When asked by a member of a Dalit group about what the Congress would do to battle social and economic inequality that has enabled the rise of fascism, Gandhi said, When we were in government, we had carried out a caste census. The idea behind it was to take an x-ray of Indian society. What are the exact demographics of our country? What are the different communities, castes? Without understanding our demographics, and who is who, it is very difficult to distribute wealth and power effectively. Gandhi said that they had been pressuring the BJP to release the caste numbers from the census. They arent doing it. If we come to power, we will do that. We are committed to making India a fair place. India today, in terms of its treatment of Dalits, tribals, poor people, minorities, is not a fair place. The politics of regional pride and gender equity In response to a question from a Tamil community representative about the alleged imposition of a uniform identity and suggestion that India replicate the US model of federalism, Gandhi said that the Indian Constitution defines India as a Union of states. Within the constitution is the idea that the languages, cultures, and histories of each one of our states have to be protected under the union. It is already incorporated in the constitution. The BJP and RSS are attacking that idea and the constitution of India. Thats the fact. Gandhi added that he understood clearly that the Tamil language was more than a language for the Tamil people; it was their history, culture, and way of life. I will never ever allow the Tamil language to be threatened. Because for me threatening the Tamil language is to threaten the idea of India just like threatening Bengali or Kannada or Hindi or Punjabi are all attacks on India. Our strength, unlike many other countries, comes from diversity, accepting that we are all different but can work together. That is an idea that you and the Congress party are protecting. When asked about the delimitation exercise and the possible rise of representation of the more populous regions of north India with the questioner suggesting that the government had decided on having over 800 members and this would entrench majority dominance over minorities Gandhi said that he would have to examine how the government was thinking about it. He did, however, add, One has to be very, very careful when one changes the representative structure of the country. I would be interested in how they have come up with the number, and criteria they are using. They should not be doing it flippantly. India is a conversation; a negotiation. That has to be fair, meaning all parts and states of India should feel there is fairness in the process of negotiation. The delimitation exercise hasnt commenced, it has to happen only in 2026, and neither the number of seats nor the design has been decided yet. Gandhi called the new Parliament House a distraction: The real issue is unemployment, price rise, the spread of anger and hatred, crumbling education system, price of education and health. BJP cant discuss it. So they have to do things like the sceptre thing and lying down and all that. Arent you happy I am not lying down? Asked about the Congresss stance on the womens reservation bill and womens safety issues, Gandhi said that when it was in power, the Congress was keen to push through the womens reservation bill but had not got the requisite support from its allies. If it did return to power, Gandhi promised that this would be on the partys agenda and linked it to the issue of safety. If we empower women, involve them in the political system, create space in the governance of the country, in the businesses of the country, we will automatically make them safer. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In the horrific Shahbad Dairy murder in which a 16-year-old was stabbed 20 times and then bludgeoned with a cement slab, accused Sahil told police that the girl was keen to get back with her ex-boyfriend Praveen. Police said Sahil told them that the girl started meeting Praveen for quite some time. She was in a relationship with Praveel for three to four years before getting into a relationship with Sahil, police said, as reported by news agency PTI. Sahil claimed the girl was keen to get back with Praveen since he had a motorcycle, police said. Sahil has been sent to two-day police custody for questioning. On Sunday evening, Sahil met the girl and stabbed her around 20 times in the full public eye before smashing her body with a cement slab. Read | Shahbad Dairy killing: Girls murder planned for 3 days, say Delhi police Sahil told police the girl was keen to get back with her ex-boyfriend Praveen as he had a motorcycle. Premeditated murder or crime of passion Sahil told the police that he killed the girl in a fit of rage after she broke up with him and was constantly ignoring him. However, the police said the knife which was used in killed the girl was bought 15 days ago from Haridwar which indicates that he might have planned to kill her. Who is Praveen? Praveen is believed to be the ex-boyfriend of the 16-year-old. There was a tattoo bearing Praveen's name on the hand of the victim. Sahil told police the girl was again in touch with Praveen and was trying to get back with him. A resident of Uttar Pradesh's Jaunpur, Praveen is believed to be in his 20s. He has been asked to come to Delhi to join the investigation. Eight days before the murder on Sunday, the girl broke up with Sahil. Sahil's trail after murder After killing the girl, Sahil went to a nearby park and sat there for some time. Then he went to Rithala Metro Station where he threw the knife. He took a bus to Bulandshahr where his aunt stayed in Uttar Pradesh from the Anand Vihar bus terminus. As a call was traced from his aunt to his father, Sahil was arrested and brought to Delhi on Monday. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin, who is returning home on Wednesday from his 9-day trip to Singapore and Japan, requested Centre to reintroduce the direct flight connectivity between Tokyo and Chennai and to increase the number of flights between Singapore and Madurai. Tamil Nadu chief minister M K Stalin in Osaka, Japan, on Sunday. (PTI) In a letter written to Union civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, the chief minister said, I wish to point out that at present there is no direct flight connectivity between Chennai and Tokyo. In October 2019, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japans largest airline, launched a direct flight service between Chennai and Tokyo which was discontinued during the Covid 19 pandemic. This service has not been resumed subsequently. The lack of direct flight connectivity more than doubles the travel time between these two destinations by about 7 hours, which is significant. There have been persistent requests from the Japanese business community in Tamil Nadu to resume direct flight services between Chennai and Tokyo, he said. Stalin, who embarked on the foreign tour on May 23 is scheduled to return home on Wednesday night. The Tamil Nadu government has signed more than a dozen Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with Japan and Singapore during Stalins visit. He has been on a two-nation visit to attract investments and to invite prospective investors to attend the Global Investors Meet to be held in Chennai in January 2024. Japanese conglomerates such as Nissan, Toshiba, Yamaha, Komatsu, Mitsubishi and Hitachi are already functioning in Tamil Nadu and Stalin said that Chennai has the largest Japanese community in India. The state is to host the Global Investors Meet in January 2024 and as we seek to attract greater investments from Japan, resumption of direct flights would indeed be a commendable measure, Stalin said. He pointed out that of the 12 industrial townships established in India under the Japan-India Investment Promotion Partnership Program, three are in Tamil Nadu. With more than 600 Japanese companies having establishments in the State, over the last two decades, the influx of Japanese expatriates has slowly increased and I am happy to state that Chennai is home to the largest Japanese community in India, Stalin said. Japan also has a significant Tamil diaspora, who in particular belong to the fields of Information Technology and finance related fields so there has been a steady strengthening of economic and cultural relations between Tamil Nadu and Japan and tourism is also growing, the chief minister said. Singapore too has a sizable population of nearly 4 lakh people who are of Tamil origin, Stalin said, adding that many travel from the southern districts of Tamil Nadu to Singapore for employment. There are multiple daily flight connections between Singapore and Chennai and Trichy, one daily flight between Singapore and Coimbatore and a tri-weekly flight between Singapore and Madurai. This issue of more flight services between Singapore and Madurai was raised by the minister for home affairs and law of the Government of Singapore, Thiru K Shanmugham when he met me, said Stalin. A similar request was also raised by many members of the Tamil diaspora in Singapore. I would be grateful if the request of permitting more flights to operate between Singapore and Madurai is favourably considered, Stalin said. The chief minister requested an increase in the number of flights between Singapore and Madurai to at least one daily flight at the earliest. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Chennai: Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin on Wednesday urged Union civil aviation minister Jyotiradiya Scindia to re-introduce direct flight connectivity between Tokyo and Chennai and increase the number of flights between Singapore and Madurai. Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin riding a bullet train in Osaka, Japan. (PTI) There have been persistent requests from the Japanese business community in Tamil Nadu to resume direct flight services between Chennai and Tokyo, Stalin said in his letter to Scindia. He said Japanese conglomerates, such as Nissan, Toshiba, Yamaha, Komatsu, Mitsubishi and Hitachi, are functioning in Tamil Nadu and that Chennai has the largest Japanese community in India. The Tamil Nadu government has signed more than a dozen memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with Japan and Singapore during Stalins visit to Asian countries since May 23. He was scheduled to return home on May 31 night. He has been on the two-nation tour to attract investments and invite prospective investors for the Global Investors Meet proposed to be held in Chennai in January 2024. I wish to point out that at present there is no direct flight connectivity between Chennai and Tokyo, the chief minister said. In October 2019, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japans largest airline, launched a direct flight service between Chennai and Tokyo which was discontinued during the Covid-19 pandemic. This service has not been resumed subsequently. The lack of direct flight connectivity more than doubles the travel time between these two destinations by about 7 hours, said Stalin. The State is to host the Global Investors Meet in January 2024 and as we seek to attract greater investments from Japan, resumption of direct flights would indeed be a commendable measure. Stalin pointed out that of the 12 industrial townships established in India under the Japan-India Investment Promotion Partnership Program, three are in Tamil Nadu. With more than 600 Japanese companies having establishments in the state, over the last two decades, the influx of Japanese expatriates has slowly increased and I am happy to state that Chennai is home to the largest Japanese community in India, Stalin said. Japan also has a significant Tamil diaspora, who in particular belong to the fields of information technology and finance, so there has been a steady strengthening of economic and cultural relations between Tamil Nadu and Japan, and tourism is also growing, the chief minister said. Singapore too has a sizable population of nearly 400,000 people of Tamil origin, Stalin said, adding that many travel from the southern districts of Tamil Nadu to Singapore for employment. There are multiple daily flight connections between Singapore and Chennai and Trichy, one daily flight between Singapore and Coimbatore and a tri-weekly flight between Singapore and Madurai. This issue of more flight services between Singapore and Madurai was raised by the Minister for Home Affairs and Law of the Government of Singapore, Thiru K.Shanmugham, when he met me, said Stalin. A similar request was also raised by many members of the Tamil diaspora in Singapore. I would be grateful if the request of permitting more flights to operate between Singapore and Madurai is favourably considered, he said, requesting for at least one daily flight at the earliest. Furthering its smart cities programme, the Union cabinet on Wednesday approved the City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and Sustain 2.0 (CITIIS 2.0), to 18 more cities with an outlay of over Rs.1,700 crore. Union minister for information and broadcasting Anurag Thakur (Twitter/@ANI) The scheme, approved by the Union cabinet at a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will run for a period of four years, from 2023 till 2027. Announcing the scheme, union minister of information and broadcasting Anurag Thakur said that the programme will include the construction of a circular economy with related projects such as combined waste management, climate change observatories and institutional strengthening and knowledge dissemination at the national level. Also Read: Centres nod to 1L cr scheme to boost grain storage capacity in co-op sector The funding for CITIIS 2.0 would include a loan of Rs.1,760 crore (EUR 200 million) from AFD and KfW (EUR 100 million each) and a technical assistance grant of Rs.106 crore (EUR 12 million) from the EU, Thakur told reports on Wednesday. CITIIS 2.0 is a program conceived by the ministry of housing and urban affairs (MoHUA) in partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), Kreditanstalt fur Wiederaufbau (KfW), the European Union (EU), and National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA). The cities will have to apply to the government and will be shortlisted by a panel for final approval, officials familiar with the matter said. The programme has three components firstly, financial and technical support for developing projects focused on building climate resilience, adaptation and mitigation in up to 18 smart cities through the selection of competitively selected projects promoting a circular economy with a focus on integrated waste management. Secondly, all states and Union Territories will be eligible for support on-demand basis. The states will be provided support to (a) set up/strengthen their existing state climate centres/ climate cells/ equivalents (b) create state and city-level climate data observatories (c) facilitate climate-data-driven planning, develop climate action plans and (d) build capacities of municipal functionaries. To achieve these objectives, the Program Management Unit (PMU) at NIUA will coordinate the provision of technical assistance and strategic support to state governments. Also Read: Trade, transit and energy top agenda for Nepal PMs India visit And thirdly, interventions at all three levels Centre, State and City to further climate governance in urban India through institutional strengthening, knowledge dissemination, partnerships, building capacity, research and development to support scale-up across all States and Cities. The new scheme aims to leverage and scale up the learnings and successes of CITIIS 1.0 which was launched in 2018. At present, 12 cities are already covered by the first tranche of the programme. More than 50 products and 150 technical documents have been created for urban practitioners. These include toolkits, templates, studies and plans on various aspects of project implementation, which can be accessed on this website. The government is committed to restoring peace in Manipur as soon as possible and ensuring the return of refugees to their homes, Union home minister Amit Shah said on Monday, completing the third day of his trip to the strife-torn state by visiting border regions and talking to groups on both sides of the ethnic divide. Union home minister Amit Shah visited relief camps in strife-torn Manipur on Wednesday. (Twitter/Amit Shah) Shah visited the Kuki-dominated town of Moreh on the border with Myanmar and Kangpokpi district, one of the worst hit by the clashes that have left 80 people dead since May 3. He also went to relief camps in Kangpokpi and Imphal, and later held a security review meeting with top officials in the state capital. Our resolve remains focused on leading Manipur back to the track of peace and harmony once again and their return to their homes at the earliest, said a government statement, quoting Shah. The minister assured people in Moreh and Kangpokpi that the supply of essential items in hill areas and helicopter services for emergency needs in Churachandpur, Moreh and Kangpokpi will be ensured, the statement added. Shah arrived in Manipur on Monday night and held talks with chief minister N Biren Singh, senior officers, and governor Anasuiya Uikey. On Tuesday, he reviewed the security situation, held an all-party meeting and met delegations from Meitei and Kuki communities that are on either side of the raging conflict. Manipur has been convulsed by ethnic violence since May 3, with the bulk of the clashes between the Meitei community, which constitutes the majority of the states population and lives largely in Imphal, and the Kukis, who comprise 16% of the state and live largely in the hill districts. The visit is important in a state where ethnic divides run deep and where the local administration has repeatedly failed in quelling violence and building bridges between warring communities. The state government needs to dispel the perception of bias and focus on confidence-building measures and bring both sides to the negotiating table for forging a long-term solution. Shahs day began at the border town of Moreh, where deliberations went on for over an hour and civil society and Kuki groups submitted a list of demands, which included a separate administration for Kukis, withdrawal of Manipur police commandoes from Moreh, helicopter services connecting Moreh to Aizawl and Guwahati and outlawing of some controversial Meitei groups. We told the home minister that violent incidents are taking place despite his presence in Manipur and only implementation of Article 355 or 356 can stop this, said Lalboi Hriammi, joint secretary of the Kuki Chiefs Association (KSA) who met Shah at Moreh. We urged him to let the armed forces use lethal firepower against armed groups from both Kuki and Meitei communities. Let there be no distinction for the sake of peace, Hriammi added. Representatives from the Gorkha and Tamil communities also met Shah. In Kangpokpi, Shah met the Committee on Tribal Unity, Kuki Inpi Manipur, Kuki Student Organisation, Thadou Inpi and civil society members. He also visited a Kuki relief camp and told refugees that the government was committed to ensuring their return home. Shah returned to Imphal later in the afternoon, held a security review meeting and also visited Meitei relief camp where he assured residents that the administration will facilitate their return, the government statement said. Home minister also held security review meeting with top officials in Imphal ,directed them to take stern and prompt actions to prevent violence, against armed miscreants and recover looted weapons to bring back normalcy at the earliest, the statement added. In a statement, Indigenous Tribal Leader Forum (ITLF), a conglomerate of Kuki tribes, alleged that radical Meitei groups indulged in coordinated looting of government weaponry in the heart of the state capital and used those arms to target Kuki villages along the Imphal Valley foothills. ITLF spokesperson Ginza Vualzong stated that incidents of firing took place at Sugnu in Kaching district on Wednesday as well. But there was no confirmation of any deaths or injuries from the authorities. At least 80 people have died and another 40,000 displaced by ethnic violence between the tribal Kukis, who mostly reside in the hill districts, and the Meiteis, the dominant community in Imphal Valley. Clashes between the Kukis and Meiteis first erupted on May 3 during a protest against a court-ordered tweak to the states reservation matrix, granting scheduled tribe (ST) status to the latter. Violence quickly engulfed the state where ethnic fault lines run deep, displacing tens of thousands of people who fled burning homes and neighbourhoods into jungles, often across state borders. The authorities quickly clamped a curfew and suspended internet, pumping in additional security forces to force a break in the spiraling clashes. Internet is still not back in the state. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Hyderabad YSR Congress Party MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy is the cousin of Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy (PTI) The Telangana high court on Wednesday granted anticipatory bail to YSR Congress party MP from Kadapa Y S Avinash Reddy in the case pertaining to the murder of his uncle and former minister Y S Vivekananda Reddy in March 2019. In his 30-page judgement, a copy of which was reviewed by HT, Justice M Lakshman of the vacation bench of the state high court, directed that Avinash Reddy, cousin of Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, be released on bail immediately, in the event of his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on executing a personal bond for 5 lakh with two sureties, each for the same amount. The judge also ruled that the MP shall not leave the country without the prior permission from the CBI, till the investigation is completed. He shall not tamper with the prosecution witnesses or alter any evidence and cooperate with the investigation and shall appear before the CBI authorities on every Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm till the end of June, 2023, when the probe is supposed to come to an end. Avinash Reddy shall regularly appear as and when he is required for investigation. He shall not act in any manner which will be prejudicial to fair and expeditious investigation, the judge said. Justice Lakshman said going by the investigation done by the CBI so far, there is no evidence to prove the interference of Avinash Reddy in the investigation and that he was involved in tampering of evidence and threatening the witnesses, except the allegation that he had tried to destroy scene of offence. The gravity of accusation (against the MP) has not yet been clearly brought on record by the CBI so far. The entire case against him rests upon hearsay evidence and assumptive evidence and no direct evidence is available against him to prove his participation in larger conspiracy, the judge said. He said the high court did not find any justification for a custodial interrogation of Avinash Reddy by the CBI authorities. Hence, this court inclines to extend the anticipatory bail to the petitioner with certain conditions. In the event of the MP committing any default, it is open to the CBI to seek cancellation of anticipatory bail, the judge said. The court found fault with the investigating officer for not registering the FIR under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code, even after observing multiple injuries over the body of Vivekananda Reddy, but registered under Section 174 of CrPC (Suspicious death). It is the fault of the Investigating Officer and it cannot be attributed to the influence of Avinash Reddy. It was at 3 pm that the section of law was altered after the inquest was completed, the judge noted. Vivekananda Reddy was found stabbed to death at his house in Pulivendula on March 15, 2019, weeks ahead of the assembly elections. The CBI, which took up the investigation of the case in July 2020 following an order from the Andhra Pradesh high court, is suspecting that Avinash Reddy is the main conspirator behind the murder for political reasons. The agency questioned Avinash Reddy five times in the last four months to elicit information about the murder. However, the MP refused to appear before the CBI after it issued fresh summons to him on May 16, on the ground that his anticipatory bail petition in the Telangana high court had been pending hearing since April 28 and was deferred to June 2. Since then, he has been dodging appearing before the CBI despite getting fresh summons from the agency on the ground that his mother had been undergoing treatment for heart ailments. He even moved the Supreme Court to give a direction to the high court to expedite his bail petition. On a direction from the Supreme Court, the vacation bench of the high court which posted his bail petition for hearing Wednesday. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Nora Fatehi, the immensely talented actress and mesmerising dancer, continues to leave her fans spellbound with her relentless dedication and remarkable achievements. Recently, she set the internet ablaze with her stunning presence in a breathtaking ball gown. Sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses from her show in Dubai, Nora exuded glamour and radiance like never before. The embellished ensemble she adorned accentuated her allure, captivating everyone who laid eyes on her. Whether it's glitzy parties or promotional events, Nora effortlessly steals the spotlight with her impeccable fashion choices and undeniable charm. Her latest appearance once again reaffirms her status as a true style icon. Keep on reading to know more about her look. (Also read: Hotness alert! Nora Fatehi raises the temperature in sizzling red latex gown at IIFA Rocks 2023. All pics inside ) Sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses from her show in Dubai, Nora exuded glamour and radiance like never before. (Instagram/@norafatehi) Nora Fatehi Turns Heads in Exquisite Royal Blue Gown Nora Fatehi pleasantly surprised her fans on Tuesday by sharing a series of pictures on Instagram with the caption, "Backstage madness with a 50s touch." The actress served as the muse for renowned fashion designer Manish Malhotra, donning an exquisite ball gown for her glamorous look. Her post rapidly gained immense popularity on social media, accumulating over 400k likes and numerous comments from adoring fans, showering her with praises and compliments. Let us pause for a moment to appreciate the breathtaking beauty captured in her stunning photographs. Nora's magnificent royal blue gown showcased a sleeveless design, a plunging neckline, and intricate silver embroidery on the bust and torso. The cinched waistline beautifully accentuated her figure, while the pleated flared bottom with a flowing train added a touch of modern-day princess charm. To complete her elegant ensemble, she accessorised with black gloves, dazzling diamond rings adorning her fingers, and oversized pearl stud earrings that added an extra dose of glamour. With the assistance of celebrity makeup artist Marianna Mukuchyan, Nora transformed into a vision of beauty. Her makeup featured nude eyeshadow, winged eyeliner, mascara-coated lashes, contoured cheeks, lots of highlighters, a dewy base and a shade of nude lipstick. Assisted by hair artist Amit Thakur, Nora embraced a delightful 90s-inspired hairstyle. Her tresses were styled in a chic high bun, exuding elegance and sophistication. The addition of curly hair framing her face added a touch of softness and femininity to the overall look. Follow more stories on Facebook and Twitter Actor Sunny Leone stepped out in Mumbai last night to attend the screening of her upcoming film Kennedy. The event was attended by many celebrities, including director Anurag Kashyap, Manoj Bajpayee, Sudhir Mishra, Varun Grover, Neeraj Ghaywan, Shazia Iqbal, Piyush Mishra and more. The paparazzi clicked Sunny at the screening venue and shared her snippets on social media. The pictures show the star dressed in a denim-on-denim ensemble, styled with an updo which was a disappointment. Scroll through to read our download. Sunny Leone attends the screening of Kennedy in a denim mini skirt and jacket. (HT Photo/Varinder Chawla) Sunny Leone attends the Kennedy screening in Mumbai The paparazzi pictures show Sunny Leone posing for the cameras and smiling brightly during the screening event for her film Kennedy. Sunny wore a denim jacket with a cropped top and a matching denim skirt. She scored full marks on styling the denim-on-denim ensemble. However, her hairstyle with the quirky ensemble failed to impress us. You can include her look in your wardrobe for summer party nights. Unlike sunny, let your hair loose with the attire. Check out her pictures below. Sunny Leone attends the Kennedy screening in Mumbai. (HT Photo/Varinder Chawla) Sunny's denim ensemble has a patchwork design featuring multi-coloured denim patches in indigo blue, light blue, and white shades. While the jacket has a collared neckline, full-length sleeves, an open front with button closures, and a fitted silhouette, the skirt has a high-rise waistline, bodycon silhouette, and a mini hem length. Sunny wore the ensemble with a white top featuring a plunge round neckline, fitted bust and a cropped midriff-baring hem length. The star accessorised the look with embellished white strappy heels, a sleek necklace, and multiple hoop earrings. In the end, Sunny chose winged eyeliner, subtle eye shadow, mascara on the lashes, kohl-lined eyes, feathered brows, rouged cheekbones, a dewy base, glossy pink lip shade, and beaming highlighter for the glam picks. She gave a finishing touch to her screening look by tying her wavy tresses in a pulled-back updo which did not impress us. The rush of pilgrims at the Char Dham temples in Uttarakhand is many times higher than their capacity, Director-General of Police Ashok Kumar said on Wednesday, and appealed to the devotees to stagger their visit as the yatra will continue till November. More than six lakh pilgrims have visited Kedarnath since it opened on April 25.(PTI image) More than six lakh pilgrims have visited Kedarnath since it opened on April 25. Badrinath has witnessed over five lakh devotees since its opening on April 27, according to Ajendra Ajay, chairman of the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee. Kumar told reporters, "The rush of pilgrims at the Char Dham temples at present is many times more than their capacity. It is causing all sorts of inconvenience. Traffic management has become difficult. The trek routes to the temples often get jammed and 'darshan' is not smooth for the pilgrims." He added that many pilgrims believe that the yatra is only for the months of May-June. (Also Read | Tamil Nadu's Kodaikanal witnessing tourist boom due to annual summer festival) "I want to tell them it will go on till the second week of November. Visiting the temples after mid-September is the ideal time for the yatra as the weather is fine. So pilgrims can stagger their visit to the temples to avoid inconvenience," Kumar said. He also asked the pilgrims bound for Gangotri and Yamunotri from Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana not to take the Mussoorie route, which witnesses frequent traffic jams. Instead of taking the Mussoorie route, the pilgrims coming from these states should go via Vikasnagar, Nainbagh and Damta, he said. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has also appealed to the pilgrims to proceed on their journey to the Char Dham temples only after taking weather updates so that they don't face any trouble on the way. "Sometimes there is rain, sometimes there is snowfall. The pilgrims must update themselves about the weather before proceeding on their journey to the Himalayan temples as we do not want them to face any inconvenience," Dhami told reporters. The Met office on Tuesday issued an 'orange' alert for three days, warning of heavy rain and hailstorm at several places. Ajay told PTI, "On an average, more than 20,000 pilgrims are visiting Kedarnath and Badrinath daily while their bearing capacity per day should be around 10,000." He said not all who visit the temples are pilgrims. "A considerable chunk of the present rush consists of YouTubers and travel vloggers who visit the temples not purely for the purpose of pilgrimage but to increase the popularity of their vlogs or YouTube channels," Ajay said. "They often add to the trouble of genuine pilgrims as they break into song or dance anytime anywhere, showing total disregard for the religious traditions associated with the temples," he said. "The large influx of vloggers and YouTubers is another kind of disaster that has befallen the Himalayan temples in recent years," he added. Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modis recently concluded three-nation tour was a testament to New Delhis growing weight in a rapidly evolving global order. PM Modis presence at the G7, his meeting with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasising the Quad connect, outreach to the South Pacific, and consolidation of ties with Australia all serve as a useful reminder that New Delhi has managed the turbulence of global politics effectively and positioned itself well for the future. The fact that India successfully concluded a G20 meeting in Srinagar last week with great fanfare, and with hardly a murmur abroad, is a sign of the governments growing confidence in its ability to navigate even the trickiest of policy issues. PREMIUM The fact that India successfully concluded a G20 meeting in Srinagar last week with great fanfare, and with hardly a murmur abroad, is a sign of the governments growing confidence in its ability to navigate even the trickiest of policy issues(Still Pixels) This is also an apposite moment to reflect on the last nine years of the Modi governments foreign policy. Next year will be an election year, when, predictably, political partisanship would make dispassionate engagement with a serious subject almost impossible. From the beginning of his term in 2014, there was a debate if PM Modi would try to be a revolutionary leader when it came to external engagements. Revolutionary changes in foreign policy are rare, and when they do happen, they are largely an imposition due to some sudden change in the structural environment facing a nation. But for a long time, some sections argued that for all the talk of a break from the past, PM Modi had not really changed any aspect of foreign policy fundamentally. But as we look at Indian foreign policy close to a decade after PM Modi took over in 2014, it should be clear to all, except the hyper partisans, that a singular transformation is underway in Indias engagement with the wider world. It is a function of a changing world, of course, but also of a changing India. New Delhi today is articulating a new voice on the global stage and is confidently able to steer through some of the evident contradictions in its approach. That a more powerful self-confident India would be looked at differently by the world is a given. Gradual accretion of economic capabilities has given the country a singular heft in global diplomacy that was missing in the past. Beyond that, it was the way India managed the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and Chinese aggression that has left an imprint on global consciousness. India has succeeded in conveying a message that while it doesnt want to disrupt the extant order, despite its visible dysfunctionalities, New Delhi will not shy away from standing up for its interests and priorities. Indias Pakistan obsession has given way to strategic management of China, clarifying strategic priorities for a nation that has often been accused of strategic drift. At an ideational level, the logic of non-alignment has been turned on its head with strong partnerships from Europe to the Indo-Pacific, and from Eurasia to Africa being viewed today as essential to furthering Indian interests. India was one of the first nations to underscore the centrality of issues-based coalitions in a world order defined by fluidity and flux. This is proved by its presence in Quad, which is about striving towards a free and open Indo-Pacific, and its simultaneous engagement with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, which gives it a toehold in Central Asia, critical to managing its continental challenges. It is these partnerships that have made it possible for India to reimagine its own global role amid the emerging geopolitical contestation among major powers. Operationally, New Delhi is willing to play its part as a responsible global stakeholder. It is no longer a mere critic of existing frameworks but a provider of solutions to global problems. From the International Solar Alliance for environment and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure for sustainable development to its Vaccine Maitri to tide over the pandemic, India is contributing to global governance in ways not foreseen just a few years ago. Changes in the international context have opened up new possibilities for India and Indian policymakers have shown receptivity to these opportunities. The global balance of power has evolved in a direction that has ushered in new faultlines among major powers. The United States-China contest has taken on a particularly serious dimension while the Russia-West relationship has taken an ominous turn. Ordinarily, for a power such as India, stable ties among major powers is a sine qua non for continued focus on economic growth. But going against conventional wisdom, Indian diplomacy has thrived even among these tumultuous times. The Ukraine crisis, instead of shrinking Indian options, has further amplified New Delhis voice on the global stage. And as the West has soured on China, New Delhi has moved quickly to offer itself as a credible economic alternative, disavowing some of its old diffidence on global trade issues. What started off as a fairly dynamic approach to global diplomacy is today yielding significant dividends for India. PM Modi and his team deserve credit for steering India effectively through some of the most difficult times in recent history and giving India a voice on the global stage that is distinct, rooted in Indian ethos and effective in articulating the concerns of those who are rarely, if at all, heard in the international system. And despite his critics, PM Modi remains the most visible and important symbol of this transformation in Indian diplomatic culture. Harsh V Pant is vice-president, ORF, New Delhi and professor at Kings College. The views expressed are personal A team of astrophysicists and citizen scientists have identified a trio of exoplanets, which may have been some of the last planets that NASA's retired Kepler space telescope observed over its nearly decade-long mission. All these exoplanets are between the size of Earth and Neptune, and closely orbit their stars. (Illustrative Image)(Twitter/@NASAExoplanets) These exoplanets are all between the size of Earth and Neptune and closely orbit their stars. "They're exciting because Kepler observed them during its last few days of operations. It showcases just how good Kepler was at planet hunting, even at the end of its life," said Elyse Incha, a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, US. The study about the trio, led by Incha, is published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society. Working with Visual Survey Group, a collaboration between citizen scientists and professional astronomers working on data from several space missions (Kepler, K2 and TESS), Incha and her team scanned the data obtained from Kepler right from its launch in March 2009 up to its retirement in October 2018 for exoplanets. K2 was Kepler's renewed mission following its fixing when Kepler ran into mechanical issues in 2014. It then resumed its operations, switching its field of view roughly every three months, a period called a campaign. K2's final campaign was 'number 19', which lasted only for a month. At the end of this, astronomers only had about seven days of high-quality data from 'Campaign 19'. Here, in this study, the citizen scientists hunted for signals of transiting worlds, or planets crossing in front of their stars, over all Campaign 19's light curves, which recorded how monitored stars brightened or dimmed. "People doing visual surveys - looking over the data by eye - can spot novel patterns in the light curves and find single objects that are hard for automated searches to detect. And even we can't catch them all," said Tom Jacobs, a former US Navy officer and Visual Survey Group team member. "I have visually surveyed the complete K2 observations three times, and there are still discoveries waiting to be found," said Jacobs. Jacobs and others found one transit for each of the three planet candidates, each orbiting a different star, in the high-quality dataset. After their initial discovery, Incha and her team also went back and looked at the lower-quality data from the rest of Campaign 19 and found one additional transit each from two of the three stars flagged in the visual search. "The second transits for those two planet candidates helped us confirm their discovery," said Andrew Vanderburg, an assistant professor of physics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), US. "No one had found planets in this dataset before, but our collaboration was able to find three. And we're really pushing up against the last few days, the last few minutes, of observations Kepler collected," said Vanderburg. Using the transit information, Incha and her team calculated the worlds' potential sizes and orbital periods. The smallest planet, K2-416 b, was found to be about 2.6 times Earth's size, orbiting its red dwarf star about every 13 days. K2-417 b, just over three times Earth's size, also orbits a red dwarf star but every 6.5 days. The final, unconfirmed planet, EPIC 246251988 b, is almost four times Earth's size and orbits its Sun-like star in around 10 days. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON At lunchtime on Wednesday (US local time), scores of Amazon employees will go ahead with their proposed 'walkout' to express unhappiness with the e-commerce giant over a host of issues. A file photo of the Amazon Spheres building in downtown Seattle (AP) Where is the protest taking place? On the protest day, the participants working at Amazon's 4-storey Spheres headquarters in downtown Seattle will come out of the building. At the same time, their counterparts from the company's offices around the world will walkout as well. How many employees are participating? As of Tuesday, more than 1,700 employees 830 local and 890 global had pledged participation in the demonstration, according to Seattle Times. Separately, Associated Press put the number at more than 1,800, including 870 staff members in Seattle; the agency cited Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, a climate change advocacy group founded by Amazon workers. Why are some employees upset? Their anger is regarding what they say is lack of transparency and communication,' as well as mandating on part of the Jeff Bezos-founded organisation. The outrage stems from the recent layoffs (which has resulted in 27,000 job cuts since November last year) and CEO Andy Jassy's February directive asking people to work from office at least thrice a week. Also, some have argued that Amazon has been slow to address its impact on climate change. What has Amazon said? In a statement, it stated it respects employees' rights to express their opinions. Separately, another spokesperson said there has been good energy at the South Lake Union campus and other urban centres since more people resumed work from office. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Apple has announced the closure of My Photo Stream, a free in-house feature that syncs up to 1,000 images from the previous 30 days between Apple devices. Representational Image(Reuters) Making an announcement on its support page, the Tim Cook-helmed organisation noted that moving forward, its iCloud Photos is the best way to keep the photos and videos you take up to date across all your devices and safely stored in iCloud. When will Apple close My Photo Stream? According to the tech giant, starting June 26, users will not be able to upload pictures to My Photo Stream, and the service itself will be closed on July 26. Photos uploaded to the service before June 26 will be stored in iCloud for 30 days from the day of upload, and people can access these on any of their phone where My Photo Stream is currently enabled. By July 26, however, no picture will be there. How to set up iCloud Photos? This can be done on any phone with iOS 8.3 or later, iPad with iOS 8.3 or later, or Mac with OS X Yosemite or later. Click here on how to set up the feature. What is My Photo Stream? Launched in 2011, My Photo Stream allows users to access images from the previous 30 days on more than one Apple device. Images taken during this 30-day period on an iPhone will be shared with an iPad or MacBook before disappearing. The original picture, however, will remain in the iPhone even after the expiry of this period. Why is Apple closing My Photo Stream? In 2014, meanwhile, the company launched iCloud Photos, described by The Sun, as slightly superior to My Photo Stream. With it, people can also upload videos, the quality of images is higher, and pictures and videos are stored permanently. Apple has, however, not given a reason behind its decision to close My Photo Stream. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Hundreds of top Artificial Intelligence (AI) scientists, researchers, and others including OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman and Google DeepMind chief executive Demis Hassabis again voiced deep concern for the future of humanity, signing a one-sentence open letter to the public that aimed to put the risks the rapidly advancing technology carries with it in unmistakable terms. The statement argued that the threat of an AI extinction event should be a top global priority.(Istock) Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, read the statement which was signed by over 350 people and was published by the Center for AI Safety (CAIS). The signatories' list includes names like Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio, so-called "godfathers of AI" who received the 2018 Turing Award for their work on deep learning - and professors from institutions ranging from Harvard to China's Tsinghua University, news agency Reuters reported. A statement from CAIS singled out Meta for not signing the letter. "We asked many Meta employees to sign," said CAIS director Dan Hendrycks. This letter comes amid the US-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting in Sweden where the leaders are expected to discuss on regulating AI. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and a several other AI experts and industry executives were the first ones to raise concerns over potential risks from AI to society last month. "We've extended an invitation (to Musk), and hopefully hell sign it this week," Hendrycks added. Recent developments in AI have created applications which are used in varied domains from medical diagnostics to writing legal briefs, but on the other hand, it has sparked fears over privacy violations, power misinformation campaigns, issues with smart machines. This warning comes two months after the nonprofit Future of Life Institute (FLI) issued a similar open letter, signed by Musk and hundreds more, demanding an urgent pause in advanced AI research, citing risks to humanity, the report added. "Our letter mainstreamed pausing, this mainstreams exctinction," said FLI president Max Tegmark, who also signed the more recent letter. Last week OpenAI CEO Sam Altman referred to EU AI - the first efforts to create a regulation for AI - as over-regulation and threatened to leave Europe. He reversed his stance within days after criticism from politicians. (With inputs from Reuters) Proposals are significant milestones in a relationship. Whether meticulously planned over months or arising spontaneously, these heartfelt declarations are undeniably magical. And thanks to people who post them online, we also get to witness such beautiful moments. Just like this proposal video that is going viral on Instagram. It shows a man proposing to her girlfriend at Dublin airport. Whats more, a man is playing the piano in the background. Man proposes to girlfriend at Dublin airport. (Instagram/@goodnews_movement) This flight attendant didnt have a clue what was about to happen when her boyfriend met her off a flight at arrivals in Dublin Airport, reads the caption of the video shared on the Instagram page Good News Movement. The video captures a heartwarming moment as a flight attendant arrives at Dublin Airport, unaware of what awaits her. As she steps out of the airport, she is greeted by her boyfriend eagerly waiting for her. He hands her a bouquet and goes down on one knee to propose to her. Overwhelmed with joy, the flight attendant embraces her boyfriend, and he lifts her up in his arms, celebrating their love and the special moment they shared. All this while, a man was playing the piano and seemed to have been hired by the man to make their special moment all the more memorable. Watch the viral video below: Since being shared two days ago, the video has raked up more than 2.8 million views and the numbers are still increasing. Additionally, it has accumulated a flurry of comments from netizens. Heres how people reacted to the video: Love wins. For just a moment in that airport, all the people watching the differences melted away. They were all able to be connected for just a moment by love. Beautiful, expressed an individual. Another added, My husband proposed to me, just like this, as a TWA flight attendant at Kennedy airport 35 years ago. Love it! How romantic, as he takes the engagement ring out of his handbag, expressed a third. A fourth posted, The world needs more of this! PS: just got back from Japan. About 70% of the men I saw had murses of some sort. So happy for them! joined a fifth. A sixth commented, People in complete silence until he made the proposal, how beautiful. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Marcus McGowan, 51, a resident of Queensland, Australia survived a crocodile attack by freeing his head from the jaws of the reptile. When McGowan was reportedly swimming with a group of individuals 28 kilometers (17.3 miles) off Haggerstone Island near Cape York, he was bitten by a crocodile and soon found his head inside the reptile's mouth. Australian man survived crocodile attack.(Unsplash) In an attempt to save his life, McGown prised the crocodile's jaw and released himself from its mouth reports, The BBC. "I thought it was a shark but when I reached up, I realised it was a crocodile. I was able to lever its jaws open just far enough to get my head out", said McGowan to The BBC. Later, the crocodile came back towards him but he was able to push it away. However, he suffered an injury on his hand. The crocodile then attempted to attack me a second time, but I managed to push it away with my right hand, which was then bitten. I was able to escape the crocodiles grip once again and swim to the safety of the boat which was coming after they heard our screams for help, McGowan told to The Guardian. The diver was transported 45 minutes away by boat to Haggerstone Island before being taken by helicopter to Thursday Island hospital. Later, he was taken to a hospital in Cairns to receive medical attention for scalp wounds and puncture wounds on his hand and head. Three sniffer dogs working with CISF recently retired. To appreciate their years of service, the dogs were given a grand farewell by CISF personnel at an event in Delhi. ANI shared a video of the beautiful ceremony that shows two of the three dogs walking on the red carpet to receive their awards for their years of service. The image shows a CISF sniffer dog who retired. (Twitter/@ANI) CISF's three sniffer dogs Rocky, Romeo and Sony of the DMRC unit retired today after completing more than eight years of service. The canines were felicitated for their selfless duty Sony, the German Shepherd dog could not take part in the ceremony due to ill health, ANI wrote on Twitter. In the next line, they also added that the dogs will be put up for adoption. These retired dogs will be handed over to Friendicoes-SECA, Delhi to be put up for adoption, the news agency explained. The video shows how the dogs walk with their handlers on the red carpet to receive their awards. They also get lots of pets and eat some treats. Towards the end of the clip, they are seen riding a car decorated with flowers. Take a look at the video: The video was posted on May 31. Since being shared, the clip has accumulated more than 72,000 views and the numbers are only increasing. Additionally, the share has gathered close to 1,200 likes. People posted various appreciative comments while reacting to the video. Heres how Twitter users reacted: Heartwarming ceremony, posted a Twitter user. Thank you for your service Rocky, Sony, and Romeo, joined another. How sweet, added a third. Thank you for your service. For protecting this country I wish upon you all to have a happy retirement with a home that loves you, expressed a fourth. Proud of you heroes, wrote a fifth. Also Read: Dog urges pet parent to give food to little sister first A Japanese man, who goes by Kaito on Twitter, was on a business trip when he ordered a cup of Marugame Seimens Spicy Dandan Salad Udon. As he was about to finish his meal, he found a frog wriggling about in the remaining broth. Kaito promptly tweeted a picture and video of the same, and it spread like wildfire. In response to the incident, Marugame Seimen issued an apology and temporarily halted the sales of the product. Live frog inside Japanese mans takeaway udon. (Twitter/@kaito09061) #shakeudon. I ate udon during my business trip I ate after shaking it and didnt notice until the end. The shop reopened that night after being closed for 3 hours, and is still selling salads and the same products. Be careful before eating, reads Kaitos tweet when translated from Japanese to English. Alongside, he shared a video and a photo that shows a live frog in his udon cup. Watch the live frog in the Udon cup below: After Kaitos tweet went viral, the company apologised for causing inconvenience to the customer. They even issued an apology to all those who patronise Marugame Seimen daily. They added, We immediately sought guidance from local public health center and determined that the conatmination originated from raw materials (vegetable procession factory). The company even briefly suspended the sales of the product. Kaitos tweet has so far raked up more than 6.9 million views and the numbers are still increasing. The share has also accumulated numerous comments. Check out a few reactions here: Tree frog? I cant see the line next to the eye clearly, so theres a possibility that its a Schlegels tree frog? reads a comment from a Twitter user. Another added, Are you talking about vegetables? A long time ago, when I bought lettuce, I found a bigger frog sitting at the bottom of the bag, so it must be a possible accident. Frog again. There have been a lot of frog incidents lately, expressed a third. A fourth commented, A long time ago, when I ordered a salad at an izakaya, there was a cabbage caterpillar in it. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In a revealing analysis, a body language expert has uncovered striking similarities between the relationships of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Prince William and Kate Middleton. Despite their contrasting lives on either side of the pond, both couples share common challenges due to their wives not coming from aristocratic backgrounds. FILE - Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Duke and Duchess of Sussex visit the track and field event at the Invictus Games in The Hague, Netherlands, Sunday, April 17, 2022. A spokesperson for Prince Harry and his wife Meghan says the couple were involved in a car chase while being followed by photographers. The couples office says the pair and Meghans mother were followed for more than two hours by a half-dozen vehicles after leaving a charity event in New York on Tuesday, May 16, 2023.(AP) Darren Stanton, a body language and behavioral expert, observed that the Sussexes have a "telepathic connection" similar to the one between Prince William and Kate Middleton. Stanton noted that Harry and Meghan are not afraid to express their love and often display gestures of closeness and admiration. The expert stated that their glances during public events reveal a deep connection and a special way of communicating with each other. Eye contact is another key indicator of the couple's emotional bond. Stanton explained that Harry and Meghan often engage in prolonged eye contact, which signifies a deep level of connection and rapport. Meghan, in particular, excels in maintaining eye contact, demonstrating her focused attention on the person she is speaking to. However, Stanton pointed out a major difference between the Sussexes and the WalesesHarry and Meghan no longer have to adhere to strict royal protocols. While Kate and William have gradually shown more displays of affection, senior members of the family still have certain protocols to follow. In contrast, Harry and Meghan can freely express themselves without answering to the monarchy, allowing them to be completely authentic as a couple. Reflecting on the Sussexes' journey, Stanton noted that the couple has faced challenges but has grown stronger over the years. Trauma, stress, and major life events can strengthen the foundation of a relationship, and despite the changes and pressures they have encountered, Harry and Meghan have shown genuine emotion and resilience. Stanton believes that their relationship is destined to endure, with a commitment that transcends obstacles. Following a briefing by members of Canadian intelligence, former leader of the Conservative Party Erin OToole has alleged that they were the targets of a sophisticated misinformation and voter suppression campaign orchestrated by Beijing. Canada's Conservative Party leader Erin O'Toole speaks during Question Period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada December 15, 2021. (REUTERS) OTooles statement came in the House of Commons on Tuesday. The briefing confirmed to me what I had long suspected that my party, several of my caucus colleagues and myself were the target of a sophisticated misinformation and voter suppression campaign orchestrated by the Peoples Republic of China before and during the 2021 general election, he said. Opposition parties also demanded that the independent special rapporteur to examine the issue of foreign interference in Canadian Federal elections, appointed by the Government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, resign from the post. The special rapporteur, former Governor General David Johnston, stated in an interim report in May that while foreign governments were attempting to influence voters and candidates, there was no need for a public inquiry. Trudeau, who accepted the recommendation not to call a public inquiry, defended Johnston in the House, describing him as an eminent Canadian, adding that it was unfortunate that the opposition was choosing to play politics around this issue. The briefing to OToole from Canadian Security Intelligence Service or CSIS, the countrys spy agency, listed four categories of threats. They include foreign funding, amplification of misinformation, using social media for that purpose and voter suppression. OToole led the Conservatives for the 2021 Federal elections. The ruling Liberals garnered 157 seats as against 199 for the Conservatives. The Conservative platform for those polls advocated a strong line against China. As more revelations appear in the issue of alleged interference by Beijing in the 2019 and 2021 elections, pressure will continue to mount on Trudeau. The special rapporteur was appointed on March 6 after a series of reports in the outlets Globe and Mail and Global News that Beijing may have tried to influence Federal elections in Canada. A series of exposes have placed sustained pressure on the Trudeau Government. On February 17, the Globe and Mail noted, China employed a sophisticated strategy to disrupt Canadas democracy in the 2021 federal election campaign as Chinese diplomats and their proxies backed the re-election of Justin Trudeaus Liberals but only to another minority government and worked to defeat Conservative politicians considered to be unfriendly to Beijing. That report was based on intelligence documents. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Anirudh Bhattacharyya Anirudh Bhattacharya is a Toronto-based commentator on North American issues, and an author. He has also worked as a journalist in New Delhi and New York spanning print, television and digital media. He tweets as @anirudhb. ...view detail On Tuesday, the Manhattan District Attorney's Office has urged a judge to deny former President Donald Trump's attempt to transfer the state "hush money" case against him to federal court. FILE PHOTO: New York County District Attorney Alvin Bragg speaks during a news conference at 1 Police Plaza in New York City, U.S., April 18, 2023. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/File Photo(REUTERS) Trump's legal team argued that the case involves important federal questions, citing his alleged violations of both state and federal election law, as well as the fact that some of the conduct occurred while he was in office. But, prosecutors from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office contend that Trump does not have the right to invoke a statute reserved for federal government officials seeking to move a case to federal court. They argue that since Trump was not acting as president during the alleged crimes, he cannot claim a connection to his official duties and responsibilities. According to court documents filed on Tuesday, Trump's alleged actions had no connection to his official duties and responsibilities as President, and instead arose from his unofficial actions relating to his private business and pre-election conduct. Prosecutors assert that the charges against the former U.S. President involve his unofficial actions to falsify records and conceal criminal conduct that primarily occurred before his inauguration. In the ongoing case, the former president has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records. The charges allege that Trump orchestrated "catch-and-kill" payments to former adult film star Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal to prevent them from disclosing alleged affairs in the lead-up to the 2016 election. Prosecutors claim that Trump falsified business records to cover up reimbursements to his former lawyer and "fixer," Michael Cohen, for the hush money payment to Daniels. According to court papers, the charges against the45th U.S. President concern his unofficial actions to falsify the records of his personal business, while reimbursing his personal lawyer for pre-election expenditure, to conceal criminal conduct that largely occurred before his inauguration. ALSO READ| | Debt limits and political showdowns, Record deficits, and the looming battle over U.S. spending While the state case proceeds, the question of whether it should be transferred to federal court remains unresolved. State court Judge Juan Merchan has scheduled a trial date for March 25, 2024, which coincides with the primary season for the 2024 presidential election. Trump's lawyer, Todd Blanche, declined to comment on the matter. As the legal battle continues, the spotlight remains on the former president and the allegations surrounding his alleged involvement in the hush money payments. In a shocking attack on his former colleague and Fox News anchor Kayleigh McEnany, former US President Donald Trump denounced his administration's White House press secretary, after she claimed that Republican and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is gaining on him in GOP presidential primary polls. FILE PHOTO: Former U.S. President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump attends a campaign event in Manchester, New Hampshire, U.S., April 27, 2023. REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo(REUTERS) Calling her Kayleigh Milktoast McEnany, Trump stated, "RINO," or "Republican in name only" and globalists can have her and Fox News must only use REAL Stars. This after she had stated that DeSantis is trailing by 25 points whereas according to Trump the lead is of 34 points. Claiming DeSantis is closing the gap in Iowa's GOP primary race with only 25 points gap between the two "Kayleigh 'Milktoast' McEnany just gave out the wrong poll numbers on FoxNews," Trump wrote. Insisting that McEnany had showcased wrong poll numbers to promote DeSantis he added, I am 34 points up on DeSanctimonious, not 25 up. While 25 is great, it's not 34. She knew the number was corrected upwards by the group that did the poll. The RINOS & Globalists can have her. FoxNews should only use REAL Stars!!! Donald Trump attacks Fox News Anchor Kayleigh McEnany But why would Trump call her Milktoast? It is being claimed, it wasn't actually milktoast but milqtoast that Trump was labelling her as. Milquetoast means a timid or a feeble person, which Trump may be calling Fox News for glorifying DeSantis, suggesting she was in line with "globalists" who favor Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. In her Fox News show McEnany said the DeSantis campaign would argue it had "closed the gap by nine points since we announced in Iowa," with Trump's advantage in the Hawkeye State supposedly falling from 34 points to 25 points since the governor announced his candidacy last week. Although it was not clear which poll numbers McEnany and Trump were referencing specifically, a poll released by Emerson College last week showed the former president with a massive 42-point advantage over DeSantis in Iowa SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Its not easy being Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda, Nepals prime minister (PM). More so when you are on a high-stakes visit to New New Delhi (the visit began Wednesday) and have distinctly dissimilar constituencies back home to please. PREMIUM Prachanda visits New Delhi on a reasonably sound political footing(Ajay Aggarwal/HT) First, theres a vocal group in the Nepali Congress, the largest among half a dozen parties supporting the government, crying foul about their leaderships stubborn cohabitation with Prachandas Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre), a party with a violent past. Then the PM must also contend with the demons within. Until his party joined mainstream politics in 2006, the Maoists waged an ideological struggle against what they called Indian expansionism. That meant viewing Delhi with deep suspicion, a political schooling much of Nepals Right and Left forces still ascribe to. One of them is the main Opposition party in the hung Parliament, the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML). Still, Prachanda visits New Delhi on a reasonably sound political footing. Five months after he took office, he has finally been able to give his Cabinet a full shape. Though Parliament remains deeply fractious, none of the old parties has any appetite for early polls given the soaring popularity of new parties, particularly the Rastriya Swatantra Party. The general election took place only last November. Prachanda arrives in New Delhi on his maiden foreign outing since he took office in December. He is also far more judicious and circumspect than in 2008 when he made his first visit to Beijing as PM, while still a firebrand Maoist. In March, however, he politely declined the invitation to make China his first port of call, notwithstanding strident appeals at home. To Beijing, this years Boao Forum of Asia held special significance: it was Chinas first flagship event courting foreign leaders after lifting the zero-Covid policy; second, it came on the heels of President Xis re-election for an unprecedented third term. Unsurprisingly, Prachandas prioritisation of Delhi over Beijing has led many political grandies to question his nationalist credentials. Given the complexity, but also the potential, of Nepal-India ties, any visiting PM from Nepal would have his pockets full: differences over boundary maps and Delhis continued refusal to accept the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) report have been two most thorny issues in Nepal. The report, prepared by a Nepal-India joint team of foreign-policy experts in 2018, makes recommendations in areas of trade, commerce, water resource, people-to-people contact and cultural ties in view of a vastly different political context since the Nehruvian era. Delhi seems happy with the status quo, including with the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship signed by Nepal's last Rana Prime Minister Mohan Shumsher and the Indian Ambassador to Nepal Chandreshwar Narayan Singh. The treaty still underpins Nepal-India ties, which many Nepalis find anachronistic. The longstanding bilateral issues aside, Delhi and Kathmandu could quickly tick off a couple of boxes for now. Nepal has asked India for four additional air routes to facilitate its international flights. Once billed as a gateway to Buddhist pilgrims from around the world, there is a serious risk that the newly built airport near Lumbini, Buddhas birthplace, could turn into a white elephant. Second, agreements on power trade will go a long way in addressing Kathmandus deep political peeve that Delhi hasnt done enough to advance obvious complementarities: Nepal sits on top of a vast hydropower potential while India and Bangladesh are both big energy-starved economies. In May, Kathmandu and Dhaka signed an agreement to jointly develop a 683-MW project to serve Bangladesh. Even more important, the two sides also agreed to work on a tripartite deal with New Delhi to facilitate regional power trade. Here's what worries Nepal. It will be a net power exporter by 2026, provided it overcomes market unpredictability soon. Towards that end, Kathmandu is keen to sign a long-term intergovernmental power deal with New Delhi. India currently requires any power trader to get an approval from its Central Electricity Authority specifying the volume and duration of import. This means Nepal is also required to annually renew agreements for every single power project that exports power to India, adding further to red tape. India also bars imports of power produced from the projects that involve Chinese investors or contractors, who are currently undertaking some major civil works in Nepal. Unless theres an immediate breakthrough, Nepal seems set to lose billions in lost revenues again this monsoon, its peak season for power production. Prachanda will breathe easy if theres a breakthrough at least in power trade and progress on additional air routes via India. With the regional power trade standing on a sound footing, it would be a major strategic gain for all three Kathmandu, Dhaka and Delhi. Akhilesh Upadhyay is a Senior Fellow at IIDS, a Kathmandu-based think tank. The views expressed here are personal A North Korean satellite launch on Wednesday ended in failure after the rocket's second stage malfunctioned, sending the booster and payload plunging into the sea, North Korean state media said. North Korea had said it would launch its first military reconnaissance satellite between May 31 and June 11.(AP) Read here: North Korea's 1st military spy satellite launch in June: Top points The new "Chollima-1" satellite launch rocket failed because of instability in the engine and fuel system, state news agency KCNA reported. The flight was the nuclear-armed state's sixth satellite launch attempt, and the first since 2016. It was supposed to put North Korea's first spy satellite in orbit. It prompted emergency alerts and brief evacuation warnings in parts of South Korea and Japan. The notices were withdrawn with no danger or damage reported. North Korea had said it would launch its first military reconnaissance satellite between May 31 and June 11 to boost monitoring of U.S. military activities. South Korea last week placed satellites in orbit with a domestically designed and produced rocket for the first time, and China sent three astronauts to its space station as part of crew rotation on Tuesday. WARNINGS ISSUED In data provided to international authorities, North Korea said the launch would carry the rocket south, with stages and other debris expected to fall over the Yellow Sea and into the Pacific Ocean. Read here: Pakistani journalist returns home after abduction. He is Imran Khan's supporter Air raid sirens wailed across the South Korean capital of Seoul about 6:32 a.m. (2132 GMT Tuesday) as the city warned citizens to prepare for a potential evacuation. Later alerts said the city warning had been a mistake. The Japanese government issued an emergency warning over its J-Alert broadcasting system for residents of the southern prefecture of Okinawa to take cover indoors early on Wednesday morning. It later said the rocket would not fly into Japanese territory and lifted the warnings. MISSILE TECHNOLOGY On Tuesday, Ri Pyong Chol, vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, said ongoing joint military exercises by the U.S. and South Korea required Pyongyang to have the "means capable of gathering information about the military acts of the enemy in real time." Before Wednesday's launch, the U.S. State Department said any North Korean launch that used ballistic missile technology would violate multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions. Read here: North Korea plans satellite launch, says Japan "Space launch vehicles (SLVs) incorporate technologies that are identical to, and interchangeable with, those used in ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles," a State Department spokesperson said. North Korea has attempted five other satellite launches, with two placed in orbit, including during its last such launch in 2016. Its capacity for constructing working satellites remains unproven, however, analysts say. "To the best of our knowledge, North Korea has a very limited capacity to build satellites," said Brian Weeden of the Secure World Foundation, a U.S.-based space policy and security organisation. They have launched a couple of satellites before, but all of them failed immediately after launch or shortly thereafter and none of them appeared to have any significant capability. Hungary has in recent weeks freed 777 foreigners, mostly Serbian, Ukrainian and Romanian nationals, convicted of human-trafficking, the directorate of prisons said on Wednesday in a reply to Reuters questions. "Incarcerating foreign nationals costs Hungarian prisons billions of forints each year," the BvOP press office said. (File) Citing overcrowded prisons, Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government issued a decree in April allowing the release of foreign nationals convicted of people smuggling, on condition that they leave Hungary within 72 hours once freed. The move drew a protest from neighbouring Austria, a top destination for smuggled migrants heading for the heart of the European Union via Hungary from the Balkans. Vienna said it regards the release of human traffickers as a security threat. The Hungarian prison directorate (BvOP) said there were 2,636 people convicted of human trafficking in Hungarian prisons, of whom 808 were foreign citizens eligible for the release. "Incarcerating foreign nationals costs Hungarian prisons billions of forints each year," the BvOP press office said in its emailed reply. It said that if those released do not leave Hungary's territory within 72 hours and are caught by police, they would have to remain in prison for the full term of their sentence. For many migrants the Hungarian route remains an appealing one despite stepped-up border police patrols and a steel fence built by Hungary after the EU's 2015 migration crisis on its southern border with Serbia. Once in Hungary, migrants can move across generally open borders within Europe's Schengen zone to wealthier western EU countries like Austria or Germany. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In an electrifying display of ambition and defiance, Ron DeSantis, the Governor of Florida, has officially launched his bid to become the Republican candidate for the United States presidency. Stepping into the ring alongside prominent figures such as Nikki Haley, Tim Scott, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Asa Hutchinson, DeSantis wasted no time in challenging the former president, Donald Trump, and proclaiming himself as America's savior. Florida Governor and 2024 Presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis speaks during for a campaign event at Port Neal Welding Company in Salix, Iowa, on May 31, 2023. The event, part of "Our Great American Comeback Tour," is a four-day tour through twelve cities in Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina.(AFP) Addressing a fervent audience of approximately 500 people at an evangelical Christian church in Iowa, DeSantis passionately declared that the nation is "going in the wrong direction. We can see it and we can feel it." However, it was his subsequent statements to the press that unveiled his determination to go head-to-head with Trump, dismissing the frontrunner's claims that New York's pandemic response surpassed Florida's as "detached from reality." Refusing to shy away from disagreements, DeSantis highlighted the former president's resilience in the face of media scrutiny and political opposition during his tenure, expressing his discomfort with the way Trump had been treated. But now, with Trump attacking him over their differences, DeSantis believes the voters will rally behind his stance. The governor's appearance in Iowa followed a somewhat faltering online announcement just a week earlier, underscoring the significance and urgency of his campaign. As the race for the GOP nomination heats up, DeSantis enters a crowded field of contenders vying for the chance to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden in the 2024 election. Dubbed as "Trump without the chaos," DeSantis has embraced his reputation as a staunch conservative, earning the moniker of Florida as "the place where woke goes to die." Not one to shy away from controversy, he has openly confronted corporate giants like Disney, clashing with the company over a state law banning certain classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity for young students. In a remarkable turn of events, DeSantis could see a substantial boost in campaign funds, potentially soaring up to $80 million, as a department within his administration altered state rules, as reported by NBC. This shift in regulations would allow a state-level political committee, Friends of Ron DeSantis, which he has led for the past five years, to transfer the amassed sum to a federal super PAC called Never Back Down, which supports his presidential ambitions. This transformation overturns years of state election rules and solidifies DeSantis' financial muscle in the race for the presidency. With his bold and unapologetic approach, the Florida governor is undoubtedly poised to become a formidable contender, promising to shake up the Republican landscape and challenge the status quo. Also read | Donald Trump's son ends up insulting former POTUS while taking a dig at Ron DeSantis As the battle for the GOP nomination intensifies, the political arena braces for the clash between two influential figures, Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump. Will DeSantis succeed in rallying the Republican base behind his cause, or will Trump's hold on the party remain unbreakable? Only time will tell as this sensational campaign unfolds, captivating the nation and setting the stage for a dramatic political showdown in the pursuit of the White House. Russia said Ukrainian artillery hit a Russian town for a third time this week and drones struck two oil refineries in an uptick in attacks on Russian territory as Ukraine prepares a Western-backed push to end Moscow's invasion. A woman looks out of a window of a damaged multi-storey apartment block following a reported drone attack in Moscow, Russia.(REUTERS) Inside Ukraine, Russian-installed officials said five people had been killed in Ukrainian army shelling of a Russian-occupied village in the east, where Russia has fought months of bloody and inconclusive battles to try to seize more territory. There was no immediate comment from Ukraine on the Russian reports, in a week when the two countries accused each other of spreading terror in their capitals with air strikes. Thousands of civilians have been killed in Ukraine and towns and cities laid to waste since Moscow's forces invaded 15 months ago, but Tuesday marked only the second time Moscow had come under direct fire - from a flurry of drones - although oil and military facilities elsewhere in Russia have been hit. In the Russian town of Shebekino, two of four wounded people were hospitalised and shells damaged an apartment building, four homes and a school as well as power lines, regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said. Gladkov said on Saturday that he had come under artillery fire when trying to enter the town, about 7 km (4.5 miles) north of the border with Ukraine, and that two industrial facilities were hit there on Monday. Both sides say they are targeting the buildup of each other's forces and military equipment ahead of Ukraine's counteroffensive, which it says will come in days or weeks, to try to drive Russian forces out of its east and south. Germany, once Russia's biggest energy market, reiterated that it deemed such Ukrainian attacks on Russian soil legitimate in terms of international law, and announced a sharp downgrading of diplomatic representation in both Russia and Germany. Russian-installed officials in Ukraine's eastern Luhansk region - one of four Moscow claims to have annexed - said Ukraine had killed five people and wounded 19 in a rocket attack on a farm in the village of Karpaty. Ukraine's general staff said its forces had fended off 22 Russian attacks in eastern Ukraine over the past day and Ukrainian aircraft had carried out 11 strikes on Russian personnel and military equipment, without specifying where. Russia's defence ministry said it had pushed Ukrainian forces back around two settlements in Donetsk province, part of a 1,000-km (620-mile) front line that has barely moved despite months of fighting that has cost tens of thousands of lives. Reuters was not able to verify either side's reports. REFINERIES HIT Drones attacked two oil refineries 40-50 miles (65-80 km) east of Russia's biggest oil export terminals on Wednesday, according to Russian officials, who did not attribute blame. They said a fire at one of the terminals was later put out. Ukrainian drones struck wealthy districts of Moscow on Tuesday and two people were injured, according to the Russian capital's mayor. The Kremlin said Moscow's air defences worked effectively but had room for improvement. Russia's ambassador to Washington accused it of encouraging Kyiv to attack. The White House said it does not know who carried out the Moscow drone strikes but reiterated that the U.S. does not support attacks inside Russia. The United States, Britain and Germany are among Western nations to have supplied arms to Ukraine on condition it uses them to defend itself and retake Ukrainian territory occupied by Russia, which they say launched an unprovoked war of conquest. The White House on Wednesday announced the latest in a series of U.S. aid packages for Ukraine that includes up to $300 million worth of air defence systems and ammunition. Russia says it is waging a "special military operation" to neutralise a threat from Kyiv's moves towards the West. But its campaign has bogged down for months amid accusations of chaotic command-and-control and corruption, not least from the chief of Russia's powerful Wagner mercenary force, Yevgeny Prigozhin. Prigozhin, whose convict fighters were instrumental in the capture of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut in mid-May after months of brutal urban warfare, said on Wednesday he had asked prosecutors to probe whether senior Russian defence officials had committed any "crimes" before or during the war. Earlier in May, Moscow agreed to a two-month extension of a U.N.- and Turkish-brokered deal allowing Ukraine to resume grain exports from Black Sea ports to help ease a world food crisis. But Russia warned the initiative would collapse unless another deal meant to overcome obstacles to its own grain and fertiliser exports is fulfilled. To that end, the U.N. has made a "mutually beneficial" proposal that Kyiv, Moscow and Ankara begin preparatory work for the transit of Russian ammonia through Ukraine, a source close to the talks said on Wednesday. President Joe Biden has approved a new package of military aid for Ukraine that totals up to $300 million and includes additional munitions for drones and an array of other weapons. It comes as Russia has continued to pummel Ukraines capital and unmanned aircraft have targeted Moscow. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) shaking hands with US President Joe Biden (R) during the G7 Summit Leaders' Meeting in Hiroshima.(AFP) U.S. officials have said there is no suggestion that U.S.-made drones or munitions were used in the Moscow strikes, which the Kremlin blamed on Ukraine but Kyiv has not acknowledged. The Biden administration has said it has made clear to Ukraine that U.S.-made weapons should not be used for attacks inside Russian territory. We dont tell them where to strike. We dont tell them where not to strike. ... Ultimately President Zelenskyy and his military commanders decide what theyre going to do from a military perspective, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said Wednesday. But he added that the U.S. has been "very clear with the Ukrainians privately, weve certainly been clear publicly, that we do not support attacks inside Russia. He said Zelenskyy has given the U.S. assurances that the Ukrainians respect those concerns. The new aid package provides munitions to boost Ukraines air defense capabilities to fend off Russias air assaults on Kyiv. It provides munitions for Patriot missile batteries and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), as well Avenger and Stinger air defense systems, mine-clearing equipment, anti-armor rounds, unguided Zuni aircraft rockets, night vision goggles, and about 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition and an undisclosed amount of other artillery rounds. Moscow was targeted by a rare drone attack on Tuesday that lightly damaged residential buildings. Russian officials say the West, which throughout the grinding war has sought to keep the conflict from expanding beyond Ukraine, has not adequately condemned the attack on Russian soil. Asked about Moscows criticism that the West is quietly supportive of attacks inside Russian territory, Kirby scoffed that the Russians are not going to believe anything I have to say on the matter. He said the U.S. has made clear that it will not change its policy about not enabling or encouraging strikes inside Russia, but added, I dont think were going to take it upon ourselves as a burden to privately communicate that to the Russians." Ukrainian officials rejoiced over Tuesdays drone attack but avoided claiming responsibility, a response similar to what they have said after previous attacks on Russian territory. U.S. officials did not provide details on the drone munitions in the new aid package or specify which unmanned aircraft would use them. The Defense Department has given Ukraine a variety of unmanned aircraft over the last year, for both surveillance and attacks, including at least two versions of the Switchblade, a so-called kamikaze drone that can loiter in the air and then explode into a target. Including the latest aid, the U.S. has committed more than $37.6 billion in weapons and other equipment to Ukraine since Russia attacked on Feb. 24, 2022. This latest package will be done under presidential drawdown authority, which allows the Pentagon to take weapons from its own stocks and quickly ship them to Ukraine, officials said. Washington is encouraging Kyiv by publicly ignoring the drone attack that struck several districts of Moscow on Tuesday, Russia's envoy to the United States said on Wednesday, after President Vladimir Putin blamed Ukraine for the strikes. Ukrainian air defense intercepts a Shahed drone mid-air in the third Russia aerial attack in Kyiv. (AP) Read here: Over 1,000 attacks recorded on Ukraine's healthcare during war: WHO The White House said it did not support attacks inside of Russia and that it was still gathering information on the incident, which Putin called an attempt to scare and provoke Moscow. "What are these attempts to hide behind the phrase that they are 'gathering information'?" Anatoly Antonov, the ambassador, said in remarks published on the Telegram messaging channel. "This is an encouragement for Ukrainian terrorists." Putin on Tuesday cast the assault, which brought the 15-month war in Ukraine to the heart of Russia, as a terrorist act. Ukraine also accuses Russia of terrorism for its bombing of Ukrainian civilians, allegations Moscow denies. A Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in the drone attack on Moscow, but said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. The attack on Moscow, which injured two, came after Russia launched three air assaults within a day on Kyiv and 17 in May so far, killing two this month, sowing destruction and fear. Russia has long accused what it calls the "collective West" of staging a proxy war against Moscow by supporting Ukraine with military and financial aid. Read here: Too late for mediation: Zelensky aide says Ukraine peace plan only way to end Russias war Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, devastating cities, forcing millions of people to flee their homes and costing thousands of lives. Moscow calls the war a "special military operation" to "denazify" Ukraine and protect Russian speakers. Kyiv and its allies say it is an unprovoked land grab. Five people were killed and 19 wounded in Ukrainian shelling of a village in the Russian-controlled east Ukrainian region of Luhansk, a Moscow-installed coordination centre said on Wednesday. Both sides deny targeting civilians in the 15-month long war that Russia launched in February 2022.(File) Read here: Russia accuses US of encouraging Ukraine in its attacks The centre said on the Telegram messaging service that Ukrainian forces had used HIMARS rocket launchers to attack a poultry farm in the village of Karpaty. Reuters was not able to independently verify the report. Moscow controls nearly all of the Luhansk region in Ukraine. There was no immediate respond from Ukraine, but Kyiv almost never publicly claims responsibility for attacks in Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine or in Russia. Read here: Over 1,000 attacks recorded on Ukraine's healthcare during war: WHO Both sides deny targeting civilians in the 15-month long war that Russia launched in February 2022. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, while addressing the Indian diaspora in America in San Francisco, made strong remarks about politics, unity, and the state of democracy in India. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at an interaction at the University of California, Santa Cruz. (PTI)(HT_PRINT) If you believed in anger, hatred and arrogance, you would be sitting in a BJP meeting and I would be doing Mann Ki Baat, Rahul stated on Wednesday. Congress leader expressed gratitude to the Indian-American for representing Indian values in America and emphasized the importance of mutual respect and bonding between nations. So thank you very much for holding up the Indian flag in America. Showing the American people what it menas to be American, respecting them, learning from them and also letting them learn from you, Rahul expressed. The former member of the Indian Parliament highlighted the reason behind launching the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra', stating, We found that when everyone started working together, a completely different type of energy started coming. Rahul expressed his appreciation for the overwhelming support he received during the massive foot march, stating that the government had made various attempts to halt the yatra, but its impact only grew stronger. The government tried everything it could do to stop the Yatra, but its impact kept on increasing. Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi criticized certain groups in India that he claimed have an inherent arrogance and believe they know everything. He stressed the importance of diverse languages and religions that shape Indian society, which he believes are currently under attack.In India, we grew up with people of different languages, different religions. And that is what is being attacked The tradition in India, of people like Gandhi Ji and Guru Nanak Ji, has been that you should not be under the impression of knowing everything. It is a disease that some groups of India think that they know everything. Even if they have a conversation with God, they might explain to him, he remarked. Rahul Gandhi's visit to the United States spans ten days, during which he plans to visit San Francisco, Washington DC, and New York. In San Francisco, he delivered a talk at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and interacted with senior executives from the technology industry, focusing on the subject of artificial intelligence. He also engaged with the Indian diaspora in San Francisco to understand their perspectives and concerns. During his stay in Washington DC, scheduled for June 1-2, Gandhi will address the National Press Club, emphasizing the future of Indian democracy, freedom of speech, and sustainable and inclusive economic growth. He aims to engage in discussions and exchange ideas with lawmakers and think tanks, including a dinner hosted by Indian-American entrepreneur Frank Islam, which will be attended by prominent business leaders, senators, and congressmen. In New York on June 3-4, Gandhi plans to interact with intellectuals at the Harvard Club, participate in a lunch event, meet accomplished Indian-Americans in the creative industry, and deliver a public address at the Javits Center. ALSO READ| 'If you sat Modiji down next to God': Rahul Gandhi in US; BJP did Sengol thing as Rahul's visit comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's concluded three-nation tour, which included Japan, Papua New Guinea, and Australia. On a separate note, Rahul Gandhi recently received a new ordinary passport, following the clearance granted by a Delhi court. The World Meteorological Organization, which plays a critical global role in tracking climate change, chooses a new leader this week to turbocharge that work over the next four years. World Meteorological Organization (WMO)(REUTERS) The Geneva-based WMO's role in climate change has become increasingly prominent and the new secretary-general will likely become a well-known advocate on this pressing world issue. Four senior figures from within the WMO have put themselves forward for Thursday's vote, including two seeking to become the first woman to run the United Nations agency for weather, water and the climate. One is the WMO's current number two, the Russian-Swiss deputy secretary-general Elena Manaenkova; the other is first vice-president Celeste Saulo, the director of the Argentinian National Meteorological Service. They are up against the WMO number three, assistant secretary-general Zhang Wenjian, as Beijing seeks to increase the number of Chinese running UN agencies; and second vice-president Albert Martis of Curacao. The current secretary-general, Finland's Petteri Taalas, is nearing the end of his second four-year term, and cannot stand for re-election. - Ramping up climate response - The election will round off the World Meteorological Congress, the general assembly of WMO's 193 member states and territories, which takes place every four years. "The priority of this congress is to ramp up the WMO response to climate change, to do more to boost help for countries on climate adaptation," spokeswoman Clare Nullis told reporters on Tuesday. "We cannot stop the weather becoming more extreme but we can save lives." The UN's WMO brings together international efforts in monitoring greenhouse gases, sea levels, temperatures, glacier melting and other climate change indicators. The congress, which opened on May 22 and closes on Friday, voted to make the cryosphere a top priority, given the increasing impacts of melting sea ice, glaciers and permafrost on sea level rise. It also approved a new initiative aimed to boost global greenhouse gas monitoring through an integrated system of space- and surface-based observations. And it is expected to back a plan to ensure everyone on the planet is covered by early warning systems for hazardous weather events by the end of 2027. But the responsibility to implement these plans will fall to the new secretary-general, who will take over on January 1, 2024. - Two-thirds majority needed - All four candidates gave speeches to the congress on Saturday, with Saulo receiving a particularly strong reception. Sources said she and Zhang appeared to be making the early running. Saulo, 59, has headed Argentina's weather agency since 2014. She is the first woman to serve as first vice-president of the WMO. Saulo said in her resume appling for the job that she is "passionate about meteorology and addressing the global challenges associated with climate change, natural hazards and the increasing vulnerability of peoples". Manaenkova started her career in hydrometeorology in Russia and has spent the last 20 years at the WMO. The 58-year-old was the assistant secretary-general from 2010 to 2016 then moved up to become Taalas's deputy. WMO number three Zhang, 67, was the deputy administrator of China's Meteorological Administration from 2006-2008. His nomination "demonstrates China's strong support to WMO and China's firm commitment to global disaster risk reduction," Beijing's mission in Geneva said -- noting that China is the second-largest contributor to the WMO's regular budget, after the United States. Martis, 57, has headed the Curacao Meteorological Department since 2010. Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas said Martis had modernised the Caribbean island's National Meteorological Service by making it more user-centric. A major street in Vancouver will now bear the honorary name of Komagata Maru Place, after its city council unanimously passed a motion on Tuesday in that regard as an acknowledgment of the historical discrimination. Members of the Vancouver City Council, including Mayor Ken Sim (fourth from right) after unanimously passing a motion to give the honorary name of Komagata Maru Place to a prominent location in the city. Also seen is Raj Singh Toor (third from right) of the Descendants of the Komagata Maru Society. (Descendants of the Komagata Maru Society) That decision commemorates the incident in 1914 when the Japanese steamship, Komagata Maru, carrying 376 passengers from India was escorted away from Vancouver harbour due to discriminatory laws that were then in place in Canada. Canada Place, which will now also have the secondary name of Komagata Maru Place, is a significant two-block section of the city in the province of British Columbia. Raj Singh Toor, spokesperson for the Descendants of the Komagata Maru Society, said, We cant undo the past but we can move forward and leave a legacy for the future generations by educating them about the past. Toor said he had been advocating for such a measure since March 2018. We are extremely happy. Its a great tribute to those passengers who suffered a lot during the tragedy, he told the Hindustan Times after the motion was passed by the council. The staff of the council also presented a report that recommends that the 2nd Avenue Gurdwara, a historic place of worship built in 1908, be recognised. Better known now as the Ross Street Gurdwara, it is operated by the Khalsa Diwan Society. After the unanimous vote in favour, councillor Sarah Kirby-Yung tweeted, Its official. Canada Place will receive the secondary name of Komagata Maru Place as an acknowledgment of the historical discrimination by the City against our South Asian communities. In 2016, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had formally apologised on behalf of the nation in the House of Commons, for the discriminatory event that led to the turning back of the vessel from Vancouver Harbour. A permanent memorial marking the episode exists in Vancouver. In 1914, the ship arrived near Vancouver harbour on May 23. Its passengers were from India, many seeking to immigrate to Canada, though it was also a political act as some among them returned to fight for Independence. However, upon arrival of the ship at the harbour, immigration authorities refused to allow the majority to come ashore, citing the discriminatory Continuous Passage Regulation, a law that mandated that immigrants arrive in Canada directly from their home country. For those from India, that was logistically impossible. The racist legislation was meant to be exclusionary. The passengers had a standoff with authorities, at times the angry passengers confronted them. Part of the reason for the action against those aboard the ship was that the British empire also considered some of the passengers to be linked to the revolutionary Ghadar movement. On July 23, two months after the arrival of the ship, the resistance was overcome and the ship was escorted away from Vancouver and back to India. On its return, British police boarded the vessel and attempted to arrest the leaders of the passengers who they considered to be insurgents. In the resultant riot, 19 passengers were killed and over 200 arrested. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India's largest hospitality company, today announced the opening of Taj Gandhinagar Resort & Spa in Gujarat. The luxurious getaway is a serene oasis with a world-class spa set amidst a verdant paradise. The 118-key resort sprawls over six acres of lush greenery, interspersed with soothing water bodies. The Mediterranean hacienda style design with distinct blue domes, stately arches and majestically designed pillars, is complimented with paintings and artefacts. The resort is a comfortable drive from Ahmedabad airport. Taj Gandhinagar Resort & Spa is an epicurean delight with the all-day diner Palette offering a mix of local and global favourites. The Tea Lounge is a haven for tea lovers, with its range of exotic blends. The spa cafe offers wellness cuisine, serving delicious organic plant-based menu. Guests can embrace health at J Wellness Circle Spa, with its wide-ranging holistic practices rooted in the rich and ancient healing traditions of India. The spa facilities include twelve treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, a sensory lounge, a meditation room, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a Turkish hammam and a Dedicated Ayurveda Centre. For outdoor enthusiasts, the property offers recreational activities equipped with a squash court, badminton court, indoor games, exclusive kids' play zone and a swimming pool. The resort's pillarless banquet hall of 5,000 square feet and more than two acres of carefully manicured lawns make for ideal venues for conferences as well as sophisticated social events. Gandhinagar, the capital of the state of Gujarat is a blend of heritage, history and culture and is home to spiritually significant sites such as 'Akshardham'. With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will have 21 hotels across Taj, SeleQtions, Vivanta and Ginger brands across Gujarat including four under development Hotel website Four Seasons Resort Seychelles and Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island welcome Senior Executive Chef Carlos Rodriguez, who has developed his career in luxury resort hospitality over the past 15 years. Chef Carlos will take leadership across the outlets and kitchens of both properties with a mission to innovate restaurant concepts, evolve menus, and drive incredible guest experiences. Chef Carlos brings a wealth of experience from roles around the world along with a proven adaptability and passion for every aspect of his work. Before joining Four Seasons, Chef Carlos refined his talents in the luxury resorts of Mexico and the Middle East. This included periods at The Grill Club five-diamond restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton Cancun and as executive chef for St. Regis in Dubai. Chef Carlos has also worked as chef de cuisine at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, as part of the pre-opening team at the Ritz-Carlton Jeddah, and in his most recent role as executive chef for IHG Hotels & Resorts in Ras al Khaimah. Born in Mexico, Chef Carlos speaks English and Spanish. When not in the kitchen, he enjoys hiking, windsurfing, diving, and spending time with his wife and two daughters with whom he shares his life in the island paradise of the Seychelles. Highgate, a leading hotel management, investment and development company, announced today the appointment of Mike Uwe Dickersbach to Chief Digital Officer. In this newly created role, Mike will be responsible for leading Highgate today - and into tomorrow - in identifying and implementing cutting-edge technologies to further position the organization as a best-in-class hospitality leader for associates, guests and partners. Mike will also support Highgate's growing hotel portfolio by building strategic initiatives that can further enhance guest experiences through technology and intelligence. He will be focused on driving innovation through forward-looking, transformative technologies that will help Highgate and its partners meet short and long-term business objectives. Dickersbach re-joins Highgate after serving as the company's Chief Technology Officer from 2015-2017. Since then, he served numerous leadership roles including Director of Technology Projects at HEI Hotels & Resorts and Executive Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer at RipplePoint. Most recently, he was Vice President, Global Hospitality Services at Infor, a global leader in software providing the only multi-tenant cloud enterprise solution infrastructure that delivers cross-industry, operational and technology platform capabilities. At Infor, Mike oversaw of a global team of 116+ and implemented strategic software changes to drive services revenue, increase margins and reduce delivery times. He holds a Masters of Science in Information Systems (Summa Cum Laude) from University of Maryland. As business travel and corporate events ramp up across Australia and Asia Pacific, hoteliers are searching for the most effective ways to drive demand and capture more bookings after years of restrictions. This is why more brands are relying on comprehensive, forward-looking market insights to aid in strategic decision making. To support its growth mindset, Quest Apartment Hotels, a member of The Ascott Limited network, announced it will implement Amadeus Agency360+ across its 160 locations in Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and Fiji. With access to 100% of travel agent bookings from the three major global distribution systems (GDSs), hoteliers at Quests franchised properties will easily be able to identify top travel agents and corporations booking into their markets, benchmark their performance against their competitive sets, and develop new opportunities to grow their businesses. In addition to driving demand with business intelligence, Quest also recently renewed its Travel Seller Media campaign with Amadeus for 2023, to run ads and increase bookings through the GDS channel. Quest first launched the partnership last year with an Australia-wide GDS advertising campaign that delivered a 60% increase in GDS revenues over the trailing 12 months, and a double digit return on ad spend (ROAS). Realizing the strategic importance of market insights on corporate travel movement and seeing positive returns from GDS advertising gave us the confidence we needed to grow our relationship with Amadeus. We want to ensure our franchisee business owners have the tools they need to confidently manage their revenue strategies, while supporting our main goal to become the #1 accommodations provider for corporate travelers. Anthea Dimitrakopoulos, General Manager, Brand and ESG, Quest Apartment Hotels For 20 years, Agency360 has provided unparalleled business intelligence insights to the hospitality industry. We are confident the depth of data in this solution will help Quest keep pace with regularly changing market conditions and provide the most updated travel agent booking insight available. Nicole Dobson, Vice President, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific, Hospitality, Amadeus 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 Norwalk, CT - HEI Hotels & Resorts, one of the nation's leading operators of institutionally owned full-service hotels with a portfolio of more than 100 properties across the United States, announced that it has assumed management of the 360-room Crowne Plaza Hotel and the 102-unit Staybridge Suites Hotel, a dual-branded hotel complex in Midtown Atlanta, Georgia. Owned by affiliates of Ramsfield Hospitality Finance and funds managed by AB CarVal, the hotels are located in the heart of Atlantas thriving Midtown district and just minutes from downtown, Georgia Tech University, Coca-Cola World Headquarters, Mercedes Benz Stadium, the Georgia World Congress Center, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, and the Buckhead Business District. Source: HEI Hotels We are pleased to have HEI engaged as manager of these Midtown Atlanta assets and look forward to the next chapter for these strategically positioned hotels. Richard Mandel, President of Ramsfield Hospitality Finance We are honored to grow our relationship with Ramsfield Hospitality Finance through these unique, dual-branded assets. HEIs management platform and repositioning skills will help to establish the Crowne Plaza and Staybridge Suites hotels as premier, high-value lodging experiences for visitors to the Midtown Atlanta community, and we are excited to drive value on their behalf. HEI Hotels & Resorts CEO and Managing Partner, Anthony Rutledge The Crowne Plaza provides an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and 17 meeting rooms that comprise nearly 31,000 square feet of meeting and event space, including a 6,000-square-foot ballroom. The hotels food and beverage facilities include a restaurant, a lobby lounge, and a grab & go coffee shop. The Staybridge Suites provides 102 units. It shares recreational facilities and amenities with the Crowne Plaza and offers a complimentary continental breakfast. Renovations of the hotels meeting and banquet space are under way with completion anticipated in summer 2023. About Ramsfield Hospitality Finance Ramsfield Hospitality Finance is a hotel real estate owner, lender, and asset manager. Since 2003, RHF has made over $2.5 billion in debt and equity investments on hospitality assets. RHFs expertise in opportunistically investing in assets across the entire capitalization stack enables it to identify, execute, and succeed through changing economic cycles while earning appropriate risk adjusted returns. Using the depth of its capital resources, market knowledge, and expertise, RHF creates versatile investment strategies that meet the needs of its partners and investors. For more information about RHF, visit www.ramsfieldrealestate.com. About AB CarVal AB CarVal is an established global alternative investment manager focused on distressed and credit-intensive assets and market inefficiencies. Since 1987, AB CarVals team has navigated through ever-changing credit market cycles, opportunistically investing $143 billion in 5,680 transactions across 82 countries. Today, AB CarVal has approximately $16 billion* in assets under management in corporate securities, loan portfolios, structured credit and hard assets. *AUM is comprised of fee-earning AUM and fee-eligible AUM. Fee-earning AUM includes those assets currently qualified to generate management fees. Fee-eligible AUM includes capital that is committed to an AB CarVal Fund but is currently uncalled or recallable. The number represented here excludes assets under AB CarVals management that are not generating management fees due to the maturity of the Fund. About HEI Hotels & Resorts HEI Hotels & Resorts, headquartered in Norwalk, Conn., is a leading hospitality investment and management company that owns or operates more than 100 luxury, upper-upscale and upscale independent and branded hotels and resorts throughout the United States. HEI's branding partners include Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, Choice and Wyndham. The company is renowned for its commitment to its associates under the culture of HEI Loves, its revenue management, profit contribution and empirically based real estate value creation, driven by a full complement of proprietary software tools to set and exceed targets on a fully integrated basis. HEI works hand-in-hand with institutional capital partners on existing assets under management as well as sponsored acquisition opportunities. The company has ample equity capital and strategically co-invests with its partners on many transactions. To learn more about HEI, please visit www.heihotels.com. STR's global "bubble chart" update through 20 May 2023 shows 85% of markets with growth in revenue per available room (RevPAR) compared to 2019. That percentage represents a high mark since measurements against pre-pandemic times began. More notably, however, the gains included a more significant contribution from occupancy growth, as half of all markets surpassed their 2019 comparables. Among all countries with a room supply of more than 50,000 rooms, Israel, Singapore, Greece, Italy, and Ireland led in RevPAR on an actual basis. Among those countries, Singapore has been a mainstay on the leader board, ranking in the top five for the five consecutive 28-day periods. Ireland joined the leaders for the first time in 2023, thanks to occupancy jumping to 85%. Occupancy rates in general are moving upward as summer approaches for most of the world, with 40 out of 48 countries in the 50,000-room group reporting occupancy rates above 60%. While Ireland led in the metric, Vietnam lagged with the lowest occupancy rate of 47.8%. Source: STR The most recent 28-day period produced the strongest performance since STR began these global bubble chart updates in 2022, as 44 of 48 countries experienced significant RevPAR growth compared to the corresponding period in 2019. Nearly all countries (46 of 48) saw their average daily rate (ADR) surpassing 2019 levels, while an additional 18 countries reported growth in occupancy. This was the highest total in occupancy and RevPAR growth since the beginning of these updates. Among the bottom five performers in terms of RevPAR, Vietnam and Saudi Arabia faced significant declines compared to 2019, with drops of 26% and 20% respectively. It's important to note that Saudi Arabia's decline in performance can be attributed to seasonal adjustments caused by the shifting months of Ramadan. Source: STR Excluding markets with fluctuating exchange rates, the top five performers in terms of RevPAR included the Italian Islands, Italy Central, Dusseldorf, Cologne, and Rio de Janeiro. Although German markets faced challenges throughout 2022 due to the absence of trade shows and conferences, the most recent 28-day period witnessed the resurgence of events, propelling two German markets to the top five. Market-level percentage changes were in line with country-level trends, as 85% of markets exceeded their 2019 RevPAR level and over 50% witnessed growth in occupancy. Source: STR While previous renditions of this blog indicated that RevPAR growth was primarily driven by ADR growth, the increasing number of markets experiencing occupancy growth signifies a more balanced recovery in the industry. *Analysis by Eddie Yeung. About STR STR provides premium data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights for global hospitality sectors. Founded in 1985, STR maintains a presence in 15 countries with a North American headquarters in Hendersonville, Tennessee, an international headquarters in London, and an Asia Pacific headquarters in Singapore. STR was acquired in October 2019 by CoStar Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSGP), a leading provider of online real estate marketplaces, information and analytics in the commercial and residential property markets. For more information, please visit str.com and costargroup.com. View source Corporate real estate professionals grappling with a raft of complex challenges are increasingly turning to technology for solutions. But its new ground for many of them, who are having to quickly get to grips with proptech solutions that can help manage buildings, drive sustainability and improve workplace experiences. One particular area of focus has become the dreaded d word: data. On the one hand, real estate professionals are drowning in a sea of data sourced from operational, financial and supplier systems, building sensors, workplace apps and employee surveys. On the flip side, key data black holes often hamper decision making, with only 13% of companies having access to up-to-date business intelligence and real-time analytics. The future of corporate real estate relies on better data, agrees Yao Morin, Chief Technology Officer, JLL. Yet the sheer amount of broad data that needs to be analyzed is vast, unstructured, and international, requiring careful processing to turn it into a valuable resource. The volume of data is only set to increase. By 2025, JLL found 78% of companies plan to incorporate over 10 of 15 technologies identified as anchors for hybrid work transformation, adding to the reams of data being collected. This means greater collaboration between stakeholders is required to successfully implement the right technologies and move the needle, explained JLLs UK CEO, Stephanie Hyde, at the recent real estate innovation and sustainability conference, CREtech, in the UK. She added that bridging the transparency gap between landlord and occupier data is particularly key in helping understand the big picture. But with everything from plans, contracts, leases, and regulations, often in different languages across global portfolios, that can be easier said than done. The discussion at CREtech showed there has been a shift in buyer maturity with wider understanding that there is no silver bullet. Instead of jumping to invest in shiny solutions in the hope of a quick fix, its vital to properly evaluate root causes, understand desired outcomes and then invest time, effort and patience in proper integration, says Alister Langdon, JLLs UK Head of Integrated Sustainability Data. No longer niche The CREtech conference was still dominated by start-ups and technologists. But this year there was a marked increase in the number of traditional real estate attendees, eager to learn how technology can give them the data they need to transform the built environment, says Sam Lavers, Principal Growth and Alliances Partner, JLLT, who attended the event. Its indicative of the increasing importance of proptech as an enabler in commercial real estate, Lavers says. Sustainability remains a key driver says Richard Hellinga, General Manager, Buildings, Turntide Technologies, producers of smart, next generation motors. The growing pressure to reduce energy costs and provide transparent sustainability data means weve had significant increase in adoption over the past two years as companies look for compelling investment business cases. Whats more, the approach seems to have matured with an understanding that proptech is now intrinsic to real estate and should not be viewed as separate. This event felt like a progress marker in how the conversation has elevated to address the real need for collaboration across stakeholder groups looking to drive better outcomes, says Langdon. Integrated solutions Its not just landlords and tenants or even teams within companies who are working more closely together. The various proptech vendors are waking up to the fact that by partnering they can remove some of the barriers previously faced by potential customers looking to stitch together a rich tapestry of tech tools and data sources. This was reflected by increased levels of collaboration and alliance between the ecosystem of proptech partners at CREtech, many of whom could be found sharing exhibition booths for the first time. Hellinga explains that stakeholders looking for faster implementation and rapid results, are now open to sharing asset data, so that tech partners can work together to deploy transformative solutions more effectively. There is no one technology to rule them all, so interoperability is key to advancing the adoption of various technologies and platforms across the built environment for greater data transparency, concludes Lavers. About JLL For over 200 years, JLL (NYSE: JLL), a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company, has helped clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties. A Fortune 500 company with annual revenue of $20.9 billion and operations in over 80 countries around the world, our more than 103,000 employees bring the power of a global platform combined with local expertise. Driven by our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world, we help our clients, people and communities SEE A BRIGHTER WAYSM. JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. For further information, visit jll.com. View source Hotels International has announced changes to its senior executive team, effective June 5, 2023. The Palma-based international hotel company expands its Executive Committee and undertakes some changes and renovations, with the unanimous support of its Board of Directors. In the words of Gabriel Escarrer, Executive Vice President and CEO of Melia, we are proud of an executive management team that has helped us overcome two severe crises such as the financial crisis of 2008 and the recent Covid pandemic, and in these times of ongoing change and continuous evolution in the digital environment, we have seen the opportunity to update its structure and complement it by incorporating an external executive with a financial and technological profile and extensive experience, while maintaining our commitment to our internal talent, which has always been a competitive advantage for our Group. In this way, Pilar Dols, who until now has been the Chief Financial Officer and has a long and flawless career in the Company, is embarking on a new professional stage to lead the Escarrer family's "Family Office". As Escarrer highlights, it is a great satisfaction that Pilar has accepted the challenge of leading the Escarrer Family Office, (which integrates the Group's significant shareholders), and I am sure that her financial expertise, her rigour, and the full trust that she has earned over so many years in the Company, are a guarantee of success in her new responsibility. In Pilar Dols' place, Melia has appointed a new Chief Financial Officer, Sonia Jerez, with a degree in Physics and Electronic Engineering and a long academic and professional career, with over 20 years as CFO in companies in a variety of sectors, especially in the aeronautical industry. For Gabriel Escarrer Sonia Jerez is a great professional with the right background and with the strength and enthusiasm to tackle the multiple challenges that the current environment poses to tourism companies, an industry that she already knows well; her arrival represents the addition of external talent that enriches the reorganisation of our senior executive team, fundamentally based on the promotion of our employees. At the same time the Company announces that the Group's Chief Real Estate Officer (CREO), Mark Hoddinott, is leaving the Company at his own request after 25 years devoted to the Company, during which he has held several senior management positions. Hoddinott has driven major developments in areas as relevant as Administration, IT, Works or Procurement, and in recent years has led several projects to transform hotels and holiday destinations, being market pioneers, under his leadership, in the introduction of institutional capital in the Leisure hotel segment. On Hoddinott's decision to leave, Escarrer explains: Mark has been essential to the development of Melia Hotels International in recent years, and we will certainly miss his professionalism and his warmth, but we have decided to respect his desire to make a change in his career, in order to develop a private business project, and we wish him the best of luck in this endeavour. Meanwhile, Melia's Chief Legal & Compliance Officer, Juan Ignacio Pardo, has been appointed Chief Real Estate Officer, taking over the role from Mark Hoddinott, offering a renewed vision to drive the Company forward. As Gabriel Escarrer says: Juan Ignacio Pardo is a strong and versatile senior executive who, in addition to his legal education and expertise, has extensive experience in team and project management. Furthermore, he is highly regarded in the industry, having chaired the Tourism Commission of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Melia Hotels International. Juan Ignacio Pardo is also familiar with the Real Estate area, having started his career in the legal department of a construction company such as Dragados, a sector he has always remained related to. The Chief Legal & Compliance (CL&C) role will be taken over by Mariano Perez de Caceres, until now VP of the Group's Legal area. Escarrer emphasises his full confidence in the new senior executive and points out that Perez naturally succeeds Juan Ignacio Pardo, after some extraordinarily complex years during which he has represented the Company in highly relevant projects as head of the Legal area, contributing with both his knowledge and outstanding leadership. The final move announced by the Company concerns the new Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), a newly created position that will be filled by Carlos Gonzalez, previously Vice President of Strategy. Like most of his colleagues on the top management board, Carlos has grown professionally in the Group, where he has held various roles over the past 26 years. Carlos Gonzalez also leads the Company's transversal digitalisation project, "Be Digital 360" and the Innovation area. For Gabriel Escarrer with this appointment, Carlos Gonzalez rounds out the Senior Executive Team, of which he has been a member in recent years as VP of Strategy, bringing a strategic vision and a spirit that have greatly contributed to the successful handling of the pandemic and the strong recovery dynamic. Following the changes announced, the Melia Hotels International Senior Executive Team members are as follows: Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer: Gabriel Escarrer Jaume Chief Operating Officer: Andre P. Gerondeau Chief Human Resources Officer: Gabriel Canaves Chief Real Estate Officer: Juan Ignacio Pardo Chief Financial Officer: Sonia Jerez Burdeus Chief Legal & Compliance Officer: Mariano Perez de Caceres Chief Strategy Officer: Carlos Gonzalez About Melia Hotels International Founded in 1956 in Mallorca (Spain), Melia Hotels International operates more than 380 hotels (portfolio and pipeline) throughout more than 40 countries, under the brands Gran Melia Hotels & Resorts, Paradisus by Melia, ME by Melia, Melia Hotels & Resorts, The Melia Collection, INNSiDE by Melia, Sol by Melia and Falcon's Resorts by Melia, plus a wide portfolio of affiliated hotels under the "Affiliated by Melia" network. The Group is one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, while also leveraging its experience to consolidate the growing segment of the leisure-inspired urban market. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led the Group to become the most sustainable hotel company in Spain and Europe, according to the last S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (Silver Class). It also has ranked seventh in the Wall Street Journal's list of the 100 most sustainably managed companies in the world (and the leading travel company) and is the only Spanish travel company included in the list of "Europe's Climate Leaders 2021" by Financial Times. Melia Hotels International is also included in the IBEX 35 Spanish stock market. For more information, visit www.meliahotelsinternational.com airasia Superapp today officiated a Partnership Agreement with Swiss-Belhotel International, one of the fastest-growing hotel management groups in the world. Through a signing ceremony held at Swiss-Belresort Watu Jimbar Bali, this partnership has strengthened airasia Superapp's position as a travel platform in Southeast Asia, by providing access to over 125 Swiss-belhotel International properties spread across 19 countries. The strategic partnership agreement was signed by Tan Mai Yin, Chief Commercial Officer of airasia Superapp, and Gavin M. Faull, Chairman & President of Swiss-Belhotel International. A total of 16 Swiss-Belhotel Internationals well-known brands have now joined the airasia Superapp ecosystem, such as MAUA by Swiss-Belhotel, Grand Swiss-Belhotel, Swiss-Belsuites, Swiss-Belboutique, Swiss-Belhotel, Swiss-Belresidences, Swiss-Belresort, Swiss-Belinn, Swiss-Belexpress, Zest and others The establishment of this partnership is an effort by airasia Superapp to strengthen the long-term potential of its travel business vertical. This is in line with the e-Conomy SEA 2022 research by Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company, which predicts positive growth in Southeast Asia's digital economy, especially in the online travel business, which is estimated to reach a Gross Merchandise Value of US$44 billion or more than IDR 646 trillion in 2025. Welcoming enthusiastically this partnership, Chief Commercial Officer airasia Superapp, Tan Mai Yin commented, We are very happy to ink this partnership with a well-known brand like Swiss-Belhotel International, further growing our accommodation inventory for the airasia Superapp in the region. In addition to providing users with a robust, convenient and affordable travel experience, this partnership will also be a sustainable strategic effort for us and our partners as fellow players in the travel industry. Aside from the wealth of travellers database that we own as a key regional OTA, we further add value to our hotel partners with a robust ecosystem which include flight booking capabilities from over 700 airlines globally, our very own ride-hailing service which is available across Malaysia, Bangkok (Thailand), Bali (Indonesia), online travel retail and duty free platform, all encapsulated by an integrated loyalty program called airasia rewards. This allows airasia Superapp to optimise our whole ecosystem to benefit each of our hotel partners to reach the right target market, she added. Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International said, At the Swiss-Belhotel International, we take pride in our culture of Passion and Professionalism, which permeates every aspect of our properties. Our focus on merging Swiss Hospitality Standards with the Asian passion for service is the key to our success in creating happy guests. We are thrilled to partner with airasia Superapp to offer our unique brand of hospitality to an even wider range of travellers. With this collaboration, we can ensure that more people experience the exceptional service and facilities that Swiss-Belhotel International is known for. To celebrate this special partnership and attract more foreign and domestic tourists to return to Bali, airasia Superapp has launched a special campaign called #AyoKemBALI. Users can enjoy Discounts of up to IDR 2 million for hotel bookings in Bali, including the eight best properties from Swiss-belhotel International. Don't forget to enter the promo code AYOKEMBALI before settling your payment. In every transaction on airasia Superapp, users will earn airasia points that can be redeemed later for all services and products, such as flight bookings (airasia flights), duty-free and lifestyle products (airasia shop), online food delivery (airasia food), digital gifts (airasia gifts), and many more. Stay up-to-date with the latest information from airasia Superapp by following their Instagram account @airasiasuperapp.id, and download the airasia Superapp now from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. About Swiss-Belhotel International Group Founded in 1987, Swiss-Belhotel International Group is headquartered in Hong Kong, and offers hotels, resort, serviced residences and property management services in Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, and Thailand. With full-service hotel brand concept, the Group's hotels cater to business & leisure travelers with hotels located in major city centers and resort destinations. The Group currently manages 125 properties in 16 countries under 16 brands. For further information visit https://www.swiss-belhotel.com. The concept of corporate sustainability is nothing new, but how can companies develop the right kind of thinking that allows them to properly integrate sustainability practices into their business? We talk to Noemie Danthine, Head of Sustainable Hospitality Services at EHL, to find out why every business leader should have a sustainability mindset. Securing a sustainable future In 1987, the United Nations Brundtland Commission defined sustainability as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In the 36 years since then, its fair to say that the human race hasnt done nearly enough to abide by this. Today, the climate crisis has become an emergency, a global energy crisis is highlighting our continued reliance on planet-sapping resources, and young generations are rightly angry at the mess their elders have made. More needs to be done and quickly. Yet, according to a 2019 UN report, while 92% of CEOs feel sustainability is important, only 48% are finding ways to implement sustainability measures. Thats supported by a 2022 Deloitte survey, which found a disconnect between ambitions and actions related to sustainability practices in businesses. For example, though a third of Europes largest listed companies have pledged to reach net zero by 2050, just 9% are on target to get there. Its not enough, and its going to have a severe impact not only on the planet and its inhabitants, but on companies themselves. Sustainability is now everybodys business, says Noemie Danthine, Head of Sustainable Hospitality Services at EHL. If a company wants to be financially sustainable today, it needs to address the question of environmental and social sustainability as well. Its impossible to have a company and not look at its impact on the world. If it doesnt, I think it will disappear; it will not be sustainable in a financial way. Why? Because nowadays, a companys approach to green issues is inextricably linked to its profitability. People, planet, profit Going back to that UN definition of sustainability, the needs it mentions arent only environmental, but social and economic, too, and can be snappily summarised by the oft-cited phrase people, planet and profit. Its this broad definition that drives EHLs sustainability strategy. Under the heading Contributing Beyond Education, EHLs commitment to sustainability has four main aims: integrate sustainability in education, care for its people, contribute to local-communities and respect the environment. Action across these four pillars summarised in the Social & Environmental Report 2022 includes: implementing a mandatory course for preparatory year students about sustainability in business; developing a plan for diversity and inclusion; sharing EHLs competences with the community by holding masterclasses at a local restaurant focused on professional reinsertion; and formulating a climate plan for long-term green goals such as the further reduction of energy use, waste, and water consumption. The benefits of sustainability practices The benefits of all this for people and planet are obvious, but how do these things boost a companys profits? Simply put, explains Noemie, if you reduce your energy consumption you will reduce your bills. If you ensure that your board is more diverse, studies show that your company will do better financially. And long-term, if you do nothing to contribute to reversing the climate crisis, you might find your beautiful coastal hotel under water and your profits washed away. Whats more, she adds, customers, investors and employees are increasingly looking to engage with sustainable companies. Studies show that more than 80% of customers will choose a brand with a good sustainability record, a conscience-salving step for many people who want businesses to make the responsible choices they find hard to make on a personal level, feels Noemie. Meanwhile, a 2019 report found that more than 70% of employees at large US companies were more likely to choose to work at a company with a strong environmental agenda. Just as importantly, people want to work for companies who care for them, as well. There are studies that show that social sustainability, diversity, inclusion, these are things that are important for companies, agrees Noemie. Even more in the hospitality industry where retaining staff is so difficult. People dont want to work for dinosaur companies that dont care for their people. On top of all this, if businesses dont keep up, theyll likely be left floundering when increased regulation forces them to change anyway. In other words, having a sustainable business strategy is non-negotiable if a company wants to survive. Its not optional for companies and thats why its not optional for our students as competences that they need to learn, Noemie concludes. Understanding why it matters is important, but taking action is even more so.How can business leaders ensure that action matches ambition? The key is to adopt a sustainability mindset that gets to the very core of their business. Implementing a sustainability mindset in a company Having a sustainability mindset for a company means that you think about sustainability from the get-go, from the moment you start a new project or create a new business plan or think about a new product, explains Noemie. And that means that everything will follow: your processes will follow, your strategy will follow, your staff will try to go in that same direction, the design will be adapted for that very way of thinking. This is sustainability by design. Its a big change from linear thinking, where sustainability is tacked on as an afterthought, an approach that only creates hurdles or sparks complicated chain reactions, she says. By contrast, thinking about it from the beginning, with the circular economy in mind, is more likely to lead to success. Something that goes hand in hand with that is authenticity. To have a positive impact, business leaders must truly believe in what they are doing, and lead by example, Noemie says. The biggest accusation regarding sustainability these days is greenwashing, and it comes out very quickly, very often, but if you are authentic I think its easier to just go for it. So walk the talk, dont just expect others to make the changes you lead the change. Going green through good governance Once a companys leadership has adopted a sustainability mindset, it can be channeled into creating a practical strategy. The governance aspect is important and often overlooked, according to Noemie. Make sure you have a purchasing policy that is in line with your sustainable ambitions; that you have those conversations with your suppliers; that you ask for data from them or have third parties help you get the data; that you have a code of ethics; that you have a policy on diversity and inclusion. Properly evaluating progress is essential, too. To understand the gaps between where you want to be and where you are, the only solution is to measure yourself. And then trying to figure out what your leverages are to reduce that gap. Thats the part thats sometimes difficult. And thats crucial to remember. Having a sustainability mindset and implementing a green strategy isnt easy, nor is it a quick fix, Noemie stresses. Its a journey, and there will be ups and downs, successes and failures. So you have to be very transparent about where you are and you have to give yourself the time to get there. While on the journey, you might be inconsistent and this could lead to criticism and accusations of greenwashing: as long as you are going in the right direction and being honest about it, dont let these critics derail you. No one will become sustainable overnight. Employee engagement as part of core strategy The best way to survive the journey is to get everyone involved. Building a sustainability strategy is about your entire community, says Noemie; its not something to do top down. By identifying each stakeholders priorities and building a strategy from there, a sustainability mindset becomes part of a companys culture. Its about creating engagement, bringing people in with you, having something that is participatory, making sure that they can also contribute and are coming along on the journey. It can be a risk to have a sustainability department that is completely disconnected from the rest of the company sustainability is everybodys business and should be a part of each department. At EHL that means integrating sustainability into students classroom and practical work. It means holding sustainability weeks and opportunities for staff to join activities and attend conferences. It means encouraging students to take action themselves, for example by creating a student-led LGBTQIA+ taskforce on campus or volunteering in the community. And sometimes it means finding highly visible quick wins, such as banishing plastic straws, something that makes people feel good about our collective effort, adds Noemie. Likewise, keeping everyone informed is key. Having them understand where you are trying to go, and that you might not get there right away. Be vulnerable in your communication. Show that you arent perfect. The end result is a future-proofed business, engaged and happy employees who want to work for you, a loyal customer base and long-term financial return on investment. In other words, a business that works for planet, people and profit. Whats not to like? On the flip side, companies who havent yet started to create a sustainability strategy face an uncertain future. Action is long overdue, says Noemie: Get going, because youre late! EHL Hospitality Business School Communications Department +41 21 785 1354 EHL View source Hospitality Net today Sign up to our free daily newsletter, Wait! Before you go Please sign up for our Evening Digest and Breaking Newsletters Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Click here for a Print Subscription with Online Digital included. Some people only want to be a digital subscriber to get access online and others want to also receive the print edition. If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create. Below you will see test that reads Print Subscribe Access. Click this to then Get Started attaching your account number and zip code to you online user account. Click on the banner above if you would like to become a print subscriber with digital access. If you simply want online access without print click get started below. As an existing print subscriber it is easy to get FREE access to all our online content. If you have already been getting our print edition mailed to you and you were never mailed a login and password you can create one yourself and attached the customer account and zip to get access. You simply use the account number and zip from the front cover of your print edition. If you just signed up on our subscription site, it does take about a week for our systems to update your print subscription to our online services. Our circulation representatives will send you and email with your login information and your account number. After your online account has been created and you have logged in, you can attach your print subscription account number and zip code to it to gain online access. Once logged and on the Print Subscriber Access page you will be prompted to enter an account number and a zip code, or just your zip code. When entering the zip code, only enter the first 5 digits. The account number and zip code are easily available on your most recent issue of the High Plains Journal in the address fields as is shown here. Sometimes the account number has extra zero's in front of it, just ignore those. Subscribers to Register-Star or The Daily Mail are eligible to receive full access to HudsonValley360. If you have an existing print subscription, please make sure your email address on file matches your HudsonValley360 account email. A landscape plan for the planned roundabout at the junction of Routes 7 and 43 in South Williamstown. Williamstown Conservation OKs Five Corners Roundabout Project WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. The Conservation Commission last week gave the green light to a long-discussed roundabout for the Five Corners intersection in South Williamstown. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation was before the commission with a notice of intent to undertake a multiyear project to reconfigure the intersection of Routes 7 and 43. Since the work takes place near the north branch of the Green River, the Con Comm has the jurisdiction of ensuring the project will not disturb the resource area. Prior to last week's local hearing, MassDOT already received a review from the commonwealth's Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program, which found that the work would not "adversely affect the state protected resource area habitat of rare wildlife species," Sara Kreisel, a civil engineer with of BSC (Build, Support Connect) Group of Boston, told the commission. Kreisel led a team of consultants working for MassDOT in explaining the project to the commissioners, who held a site visit to the intersection prior to Thursday's hearing. "While the project's goal is to improve the intersection, MassDOT intends to take the opportunity to improve stormwater management in the vicinity," Kreisel said. "As a redevelopment project which will not significantly increase the amount of impervious area to the site, the proposed design meets the stormwater standard to the maximum extent practicable." Kreisel said the project, when all is said and done, actually will add 24 percent more pervious (i.e. unpaved) surface to the intersection, in part because the center of the roundabout itself will be a natural, landscaped surface. The reconfiguration of the intersection also will add a little land to the town-owned and Con Comm-managed Bloedel Park on the southwest corner of the intersection and make that park slightly more accessible by creating a pedestrian path from the park to the Store at Five Corners property across Route 7. "A recent study indicated the number of car crashes at the intersection is well above the average in the DOT district," Kreisel said. "The proposed project will improve vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian safety." The MassDOT consultants told the commissioners that the agency's plan is to put the project to bid this August with an anticipated start date in spring 2024. If all goes according to plan, the roundabout could be finished by December 2025, the consultants said. The agency's representatives indicated the work would be staged to allow the flow of traffic during construction. MassDOT's construction plan is designed with six stages. "Each stage, we ran tractor trailer templates through there to make sure they can get through and make the turns during construction," engineer John Mahoney of Toole Design told the commission. One part of the plan that the MassDOT representatives did agree to change after Thursday's hearing was its landscaping strategy. Commissioner Henry Art expressed concern about some of the exotic species he saw in the agency's plan and offered a number of native species as alternatives. The MassDOT consultants agreed to redo the landscape plan and resubmit to the town for review with those concerns in mind. A couple of commissioners also asked about the design that showed tall plantings in the center of the roundabout that could obscure the view of drivers. Mahoney explained that is by design because the intent is to have drivers focus on the circular traffic coming at them from the left as they enter the traffic circle rather than vehicles off in the distance "We're suggesting trees for the ornamental value but also to block those sightlines and focus the driver's attention," Mahoney said.. Mahoney went on to say that while adding an obstruction may sound counterintuitive from a safety standpoint, the plantings are another traffic calming feature of the new design. A March 2022 MassDOT publication titled "Guidelines for the Planning and Design of Roundabouts" talks about the role of the intersection's center island. "The key function of the inner central island landscape is to alert approaching drivers to the change in roadway geometry and guide them around the roundabout intersection," the publication notes. "It is typically, mounded and/or planted to enhance its visual prominence." Although Thursday's approval allows MassDOT to put the project to bid and line up contractors, those contractors will be back before the commission before work begins. One of the conditions set by the Con Comm on Thursday was that it will review the construction company's plan for laydown areas around the riverfront area before work begins. Pownal National Guard Soldier Receives New Rank, New Responsibilities LATHAM, N.Y. A Pownal, Vt., man has been promoted to the rank of sergeant in the New York Army National Guard. Robert Hoard, assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment, received the promotion Feb. 6. He was one of a number of promoted guard members announced by Maj. Gen. Ray Shields, the adjutant general for the state of New York, in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership. Army National Guard promotions are based on a soldier's overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential. These promotions recognize the best qualified soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard. Army National Guard citizen soldiers who serve their states and nation are eligible for monthly pay, educational benefits (from the state and federal government), travel across the globe, technical and leadership training, health and dental insurance and contributions toward retirement programs similar to a 401(k). The New York National Guard is the state's executive agency responsible to the governor for managing New York's military forces, which consists of nearly 20,000 members of the New York Army and Air National Guard, New York Guard and the New York Naval Militia. Miz Rebel, Emma Lenski, Shawn Hollenbach, Michael Taylor, Mayor Linda Tyer, Cass Santos-China and Christopher Riggleman at Wednesday afternoon's Pride proclamation at City Hall. Berkshire Pride Vice President Michael Taylor expresses the local LGBTQIA community's gratitude to Mayor Tyer for her support since taking office. PreviousNext Pittsfield Raises Pride Flag, Proclaims 'Pride Every Day' Theme Mayor Linda Tyer speaks at the flag raising. PITTSFIELD, Mass. The sun rose high on Wednesday afternoon for the city's Pride Month proclamation and progress flag raising at City Hall. The city of Pittsfield in partnership with Berkshire Pride raised the LGBTQ-plus flag with this year's theme being every day is pride. The LGBTQIA community needs help from everyone to "stand in the breach, to fight against the unwinding of their rights, against the violence perpetrated upon them against the bullying experienced by children and young adults, who strive mightily to grow into their full and authentic selves," Mayor Linda Tyer said. "And here in Pittsfield, as we prepare to raise the pride flag all are welcome. All are respected. Everyone is entitled to and supported in achieving their highest potential. Simply put, love wins." For the last seven years, Tyer has been "shoulder to shoulder" with the LGBTQIA-plus community providing the community and allies opportunities to express themselves with festivals and parades, said Berkshire Pride Vice President Michael Taylor. Most recently, the mayor requested that a Pride organization and drag queens from another small town in Massachusetts be invited to the Pittsfield Pride Festival after their pride festival permit was rescinded when their local elected officials found out there was going to be drag, Taylor said. Now that she is not seeking re-election, the LGBTQIA-plus community wanted to show its gratitude for her "support to Berkshire Pride, advocacy for equality, and shining brightly as an ally to the LGBTQIA community," he said. The shouts from a disgruntled passer-by ushered away by security did not stop Taylor from speaking on the strength and resilience the pride flag represents. "It's wonderful to see you all here for the seventh year in a row. Our flag is a vibrant representation of the strength, resilience and diversity of our community. It embodies the struggles and the triumphs of the LGBTQIA community throughout history," Taylor said. "It reminds us of the activists who fought tirelessly for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today. It is a powerful testament to the progress we have made in embracing equality and inclusivity." The progress flag was designed to represent and be more inclusive to the transgender community and communities of color by a non-binary artist in 2018. It is important to recognize that this is not a symbolic act but rather a statement of support and solidarity with the community, Taylor said. He noted that the crowd included local elected officials, city employees and individuals representing their businesses. "And when I see this flag flying here at City Hall, as it has for the past seven years, it's a statement that our city is welcoming and that people can walk into our buildings and be their authentic selves without fear of prejudice or discrimination," Taylor said. "It is a reminder that every person, regardless of their identity, deserves to be treated with respect, dignity and equality." The LGBTQIA-plus community recognizes that this welcoming atmosphere is not something to take for granted, he said. "We recognize this is a privilege living here in Massachusetts, especially as we see everything what's happening in our country today," Taylor said. "So we know our work is not done. And we must continue to reject hate, and foster an inclusive society where everyone can thrive and be proud of who they are." Page Content Last week, ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar concluded five days of successful advocacy with European transport and environmental policy leaders, with a view to further enhance global cooperation on aviation sustainability, resilience, and innovation. Mr. Salazar began his mission in Paris, where he participated in the 160th meeting of the Directors General of Civil Aviation of the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC), held in ICAOs Regional Office for Europe and North Atlantic. He delivered a keynote address, highlighting key priorities for ICAO and underscoring the achievements made by ECAC States in various domains, in particular with respect to sustainability. The Secretary Generals activities in Brussels began with a presentation to Members of the European Parliament, Committee on Transport and Tourism, focused on priorities for the sustainable development of air transport, including current and upcoming activities to achieve ICAOs long-term global aspirational goal (LTAG) for international aviation of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and the importance of global coordination and cooperation. Subsequent meetings with the European Commission encompassed discussions on sustainability, safety, security, cybersecurity, resilience and other key issues with the Director General of the Directorate-General Climate Action (DG CLIMA), Mr. Kurt Vandenberghe; and with the Acting Director General of Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE), Ms. Maja Bakran Marcich. Mr. Salazar and Ms. Bakran Marcich also co-chaired the annual meeting of the EU-ICAO Joint Committee. At this occasion, the Secretary General signed a Joint Committee Decision for an Appendix to the Working Arrangement regarding the cooperation in the area of accident and incident reporting in civil aviation. Addressing high-level representatives of the EC and beneficiary States, the Secretary General also launched the Capacity Building for Sustainable Aviation Fuels eligible under CORSIA and in support of achieving net zero emissions by 2050 project (pictured), within the framework of the ICAO Capacity-building and Training for Sustainable Aviation Fuels programme (ACT-SAF) programme. Several meetings then took place with the Director General of EUROCONTOL, Mr. Raul Medina, and the management of SESAR Joint Undertaking and SESAR Deployment. These focused on innovation in air navigation services and Europes leadership in this domain, and highlighted the contributions to ICAO. Mr. Salazar and Mr. Medina signed an Annex to the Agreement between EUROCONTROL and ICAO relating to the development and hosting of the location of an aircraft in distress repository (LADR) - a key step for enhancing aircraft tracking and facilitating search and rescue operations. The Secretary General also visited the new building of the EUROCONTOL Network Manager OPS Center. On the final day of his mission, the Secretary General held meetings in Cologne with the Executive Director of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Mr. Patrick Ky, and with its Executive Committee. These activities, which coincided with Agencys 20th anniversary, focused on the cooperation between EASA and ICAO on standardization, audit and monitoring, and implementation support. The Secretary Generals mission in Europe also comprised a bilateral meeting with representatives of the Government of Germany. Mr. Salazar was accompanied throughout his mission to Europe by ICAO Regional Director for Europe and the North Atlantic, Mr. Nicolas Rallo. Kingston Technology, a world leader in memory products and technology solutions, today announced it will make a grand return to COMPUTEX Taipei event after three years. Continuing its philosophy, Kingston Is With You, Kingston invites everyone to step into the future with the worlds first Kingston Future Hub showroom and Kingston Starship No.35. Step into the future and experience how Kingston Is With You in all aspects of your daily life At COMPUTEX 2023, Kingston showcases its latest products including the non-binary DDR5 memory, XS1000 External SSD, Industrial SD card, Data Center solutions and more. As the leading storage brand and reliable partner of the industry, Kingstons DataTraveler microDuo 3C (DTDUO3CG3) USB was selected by TAITRA (Taiwan External Trade Development Council) as the official media gift for COMPUTEX 2023. "For over 35 years, Kingston has set many important milestones, such a maintaining its position as the No.1 supplier of third-party DRAM modules for 19 consecutive years, and the leader in channel SSD market share since 2019. This demonstrates Kingstons consistency in enabling our customers to achieve more. Kevin Wu, Sales/Marketing and Business Development Vice President of APAC region said, Were thrilled to be back at COMPUTEX to present comprehensive solutions that will help users in different fields of their lives succeed, as Kingston Is With You. Worlds First Look at the Kingston Future Hub Showroom The Kingston Future Hub showroom exhibits how Kingston enriches the lives of users with its memory and storage solutions. The five zones include: Creator Gadgets , with the ever-increasing demands of data storage and computer performance, Kingston brings in a personal studio equipped with Kingston FURY memory, Kingston SSDs and workstation gadgets. Kingston debuts its non-binary DDR5 memory that satisfies users ideal memory-to-core ratios without sacrificing bandwidth. With more flexibility in capacity, the non-binary DDR5 models provide cost-effective options that can drive down system costs. , with the ever-increasing demands of data storage and computer performance, Kingston brings in a personal studio equipped with Kingston FURY memory, Kingston SSDs and workstation gadgets. Kingston debuts its that satisfies users ideal memory-to-core ratios without sacrificing bandwidth. With more flexibility in capacity, the non-binary DDR5 models provide cost-effective options that can drive down system costs. Enterprise Suite , is a walk-in data center that showcases Kingstons enterprise level SSD and Server Premier DDR5 memory, trusted by leading server manufacturers and the worlds largest data centers. Kingston launches the DC600M Enterprise SSD , optimized for mixed-use workloads with excellent Quality of Service (QoS) that ensures latency and IOPS consistency to hit service-level agreements. Additionally, Kingston introduces Industrial SD Card , ideal for write-intensive recording in harsh working environments. , is a walk-in data center that showcases Kingstons enterprise level SSD and Server Premier DDR5 memory, trusted by leading server manufacturers and the worlds largest data centers. Kingston launches the , optimized for mixed-use workloads with excellent Quality of Service (QoS) that ensures latency and IOPS consistency to hit service-level agreements. Additionally, Kingston introduces , ideal for write-intensive recording in harsh working environments. Gamer Ecstasy , shows customized PC builds constructed by the worlds top PC modders, alongside the newest Kingston FURY non-binary DDR5 memory product lines and Kingston FURY Renegade SSD. Kingston FURY DDR4 memory with brand new heat spreader designs will be displayed on-site along with DDR5 RGB options with 18 RGB FURY CTRL lighting effects to empower gamers with cutting-edge performance and aggressive style. , shows customized PC builds constructed by the worlds top PC modders, alongside the newest Kingston FURY non-binary DDR5 memory product lines and Kingston FURY Renegade SSD. Kingston FURY DDR4 memory with brand new heat spreader designs will be displayed on-site along with DDR5 RGB options with 18 RGB FURY CTRL lighting effects to empower gamers with cutting-edge performance and aggressive style. Vlogger Essentials , showcases Kingstons best-in-class storage solutions for the generation always on-the-move. Kingston joins forces with its long-term travel partner, EVA Air , a Star Alliance member with a far-reaching global route system to take the smart-travel experience to the next level. Whether it is for work, play or even passion projects, Kingston and EVA Air makes travel easy with its trusted products and services. Kingston gives an exclusive first look at the XS1000 External SSD , the extremely compact form factor offers ultimate portability that helps users save, share and transfer important files and memories on-the-go. , showcases Kingstons best-in-class storage solutions for the generation always on-the-move. Kingston joins forces with its long-term travel partner, , a Star Alliance member with a far-reaching global route system to take the smart-travel experience to the next level. Whether it is for work, play or even passion projects, Kingston and EVA Air makes travel easy with its trusted products and services. Kingston gives an exclusive first look at the , the extremely compact form factor offers ultimate portability that helps users save, share and transfer important files and memories on-the-go. Smart Living, dives into Kingstons embedded solutions for leading global brands, including Acer, ASUS, BBK Electronics, OPPO and more. Kingstons embedded memory products can be found in smart home devices, drones, eBooks and educational tools, further strengthening the Kingston Is With You credo. Even in unexpected places, Kingston is everywhere. Bringing Kingston Starship No.35 to COMPUTEX 2023 In March, Kingston launched the Kingston Starship No.35 experiential truck, which brings alive an immersive space exploration that highlights Kingston products extreme performance. Kingston Starship No.35, which has already reached over 50,000 people, will enter the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Hall during COMPUTEX 2023. Attendees will get a chance to win cash prizes, Kingston swag, or round-trip EVA Air Premium Economy ticket between Taipei and an Asia destination of their choice. For more information visit kingston.com. As part of the companys annual Global Volunteer Month activities, employees from UPS teamed up with charitable organizations in Quezon City, Muntinlupa and Cebu to reinforce UPSs commitment to giving back to the communities it serves around the world. With this years projects marking a return to regular in-person activities after the switch to more virtual-based volunteerism during the pandemic, the programs provided UPS employees a chance to reconnect with the community and renew the company purpose of moving the world forward by delivering what matters. As this years global volunteer month activities draw to a close, were grateful to have been able to participate in more in-person projects, after having to get creative with how we carried out our volunteer programs over the last couple of years, says Tessa Santos, UPS Philippines operation manager and Community Involvement Committee (CIC) executive sponsor. Two of our partners this year SOS Childrens Village and Good Neighbors International Philippines focus on building and supporting families and communities, which is the perfect example of delivering what matters where its needed most. In addition to giving us an opportunity to help the people of the community, it gives our employees a sense of accomplishment, and knowing that they are making a real difference to peoples lives is a hugely energizing experience. One of this years partner communities is SOS Childrens Village, an organization on a mission to build families for children in need. In order to give these children a support system and empower them to shape their own futures, UPS volunteers provided children, at first with virtual visits and then with physical ones, regular platforms on which to express themselves and build meaningful connections. The virtual visits weve done with UPS volunteers helped ensure that the social and emotional development and social integration of the children are supported, said Romil I. Rayos del Sol, Deputy National Director of SOS Children's Villages in the Philippines. Our most recent project with UPS helps in providing basic needs such as food subsidies, educational supplies, additional school allowances, and funding for the improvement of the living situations in the village, youth facilities, and boarding houses. It also helps in strengthening youth empowerment and leadership by providing an opportunity to hone the leadership and project management skills of youth councils and interested young people by designing a Youth Leaders Summit. UPS also partners with another family-focused endeavor, Good Neighbors International Philippines. Established in 2008, Good Neighbors is dedicated to improving the lives of Filipinos, in particular children, through child sponsorship and community development programs. So far, the NGO has had an incredibly enlivening effect on the small town where Good Neighbors first set down roots. Prior to Good Neighbors, the community of Sitio Bakal was not known to many. The presence of Good Neighbors paved the way for opportunities which addressed the limitations of Sitio Bakal in terms of community involvement, livelihood and capacity building training, said Good Neighbors Country Director Mr. Jae Choon Lee. The UPS employee engagement activity was another avenue for the Sitio Bakal community to showcase their sectoral activities and advocate for urban gardening. The facilitation of the hydroponics workshop boosted their self-confidence whilst the presentation of individual gardens gave them the opportunity to market their produce which the UPS employees wholeheartedly supported. Global volunteer month is a hugely significant time in the UPS calendar and the last couple of years have shown that were not going to let anything get in the way of us reaching out to the community, added Santos. UPS has a set of really ambitious ESG targets, one of which is to commit 30 million volunteer hours by 2030, and another is to positively impact a billion lives by 2040. At UPS Philippines its an honor to be playing our part in the company achieving these goals and to be making a positive difference to the people in the communities we proudly serve. Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure and continuity solutions, today released its second annual report on the companys environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts, highlighting initiatives across several key areas. In 2022, efforts focused on six areas key to the companys vision and values: efficient products and systems, responsible operations, its people, its neighbors, supply chain integrity, and governance. Some of the initiatives and results highlighted in the report include: The expansion of both the product portfolio and the product pipeline with new and upgraded offerings with energy- and water-efficiency attributes. Release of the Vertiv Guide to Data Center Sustainability, an online resource of practices and emerging technologies to help the industry advance toward net-zero operations. Launch of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) training sessions for senior management and other global and regional leaders and continued training on unconscious bias. Centralizing and expanding employee wellness programs for associates globally. Driving positive change in communities across the globe through employee volunteerism supported by the company, focusing on education and STEM, people in need, healthcare, and community improvements. Steps taken in 2022 to reduce the environmental impacts of Vertivs business. Across Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), several Vertiv factories have purchased renewable energy for operations, and Vertivs E+I Engineering Burnfoot location in Ireland installed a system that recycles and reuses all process water in manufacturing, reducing the overall water consumption of the site. In North America, the Delaware, Ohio, U.S. facility began installation of an on-site solar field, to support a microgrid demonstration initiative. Continued commitment to supply chain integrity, analyzing 100% of the prior year supplier spend and conducting additional due diligence on more than 500 direct and indirect suppliers to assure compliance with leading industry standards for human rights and labor conditions. We have made steady advancement in our commitment to be a responsible global and corporate citizen, said Giordano Albertazzi, Vertiv CEO. We are creating reliable, water- and energy-efficient products and systems that support the environmental objectives of our customers, while improving our own policies and impact related to our operations, our people, our communities, and our supply chain. We are proud to share our work on these fronts with the world. This years ESG report also introduces reporting aligned to the recommendations of the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), a leading framework for communicating the management of climate risks and opportunities and how these impact Vertivs business strategy. Additional details are available in the report, which can be accessed and downloaded at Vertiv.com. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A Chinese human rights defender who went missing from Vietnam has been imprisoned in China's Henan province for over seven months, according to his family. Dong Guangping, 64, is being held incommunicado in Zhengzhou No 3 Detention Centre without charge or pending trial, according to his supporters. Mr Dong, a former police officer-turned-activist, is known for standing against Chinese censorship and has been jailed three times previously by Beijing for speaking out against the government's human rights violations, including the Tiananmen Square crackdown. The Toronto Association for Democracy in China in a statement said they have "credible information" regarding Mr Dong's detention, without mentioning the source of the confirmation. "We've now had confirmation that Dong Guangping has indeed been handed over to Chinese authorities...Turns out he has likely been there since last October," Alex Neve, a senior fellow at the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, University of Ottawa, told The Independent. There has been no official acknowledgment of his detention, no family access or communication, and no contact with a lawyer, he added. Mr Dong was arrested by the Vietnamese police on 24 August 2022 and since then there has been no information about his whereabouts. Katherine Dong, the daughter of the activist, who lives in Toronto with her mother, said in November she feared her father had been handed over to Chinese authorities. It is beyond heartbreaking to learn that after my fathers courageous attempt to escape persecution in China a perilous journey over the past three years that we had hoped would end with our happy reunion in Canada. He is, instead, once again behind bars in China," Katherine Dong said in a statement. "I implore Chinese officials to relent in their cruel pursuit of my father simply because he stands strong for human rights. "I beg them to free him and allow him to join us here in Canada." Following his "enforced disappearance", the Vietnamese and Chinese officials have repeatedly refused to provide any information. Katherine Dong, who is now a Canadian citizen, had appealed to the Justin Trudeau administration to help free her father, but the Vietnamese government refused to cooperate. The activist escaped from China in January 2020, several months after he was released from serving his three-and-a-half-year jail term. He fled to Vietnam in 2020, where he had been in hiding, while his family moved to Toronto. The Canadian government had reportedly issued Mr Dong travel documents and was negotiating with Hanoi to grant him permission to leave when he was arrested. Three months after UN rapporteurs for human rights wrote to Vietnam, the government perfunctorily informed them that they had "no information regarding Dong Guangping". "It is intolerable that Dong Guangping is in a Chinese prison for the fourth time in the past 20 years, simply because he has the courage to defend human rights," said Canadian senator Hassan Yussuff. "While the relationship between Canada and China is strained, Canadian officials must pursue all avenues, including turning to other countries for assistance, to secure Dong Guangpings freedom." For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} North Korea's attempt to put the country's first spy satellite into orbit failed on Wednesday in an embarrassment for Kim Jong-un, amid his push to boost military capabilities. The rocket carrying the "Chollima-1" satellite crashed into waters off the Korean Peninsula's western coast after losing thrust following the separation of its first and second stages. The rocket was launched at 6.30am (local time) northwestern Tongchang-ri area, where the Hermit Kingdom's main space launch centre is located, the South Korean military said. The satellite launch rocket failed because of instability in the engine and fuel system, according to Pyongyang's KCNA news agency. However, the launch prompted emergency alerts and brief evacuation warnings in parts of South Korea and Japan. Alerts were issued through public speakers and text messages in South Korea's capital Seoul City, asking residents to prepare for an evacuation. Alerts were later lifted as there were no reports of damage or major disruption. Similarly in Japan, the Fumio Kishida government activated a missile warning system for its Okinawa prefecture in the southwestern part of the country, believed to be in the path of the rocket. "Please evacuate into buildings or underground," the alert said. It was later lifted as well. The South's joint chiefs of staff said the military was conducting a salvage operation to recover what is believed to be parts of the space launch vehicle. Following the launch, officials from the US, Japan, and South Korea held a phone call, where they strongly condemned" the launch. The three countries will stay vigilant with high sense of urgency, the statement said. The North is likely to stage a second round of satellite launch before 11 June, Yonhap reported, citing the South's presidential office. US president Joe Biden and his national security team were assessing the situation, National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge said. Pyongyang had warned that it would launch its first military reconnaissance satellite between 31 May and 11 June in an effort to boost monitoring of US military activities. Ri Pyong Chol, the vice-chair of the Central Military Commission of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party, said on Tuesday that the ongoing joint military exercises by the US and South Korea required Pyongyang to have the "means capable of gathering information about the military acts. He said the surveillance assets are tasked with tracking, monitoring, discriminating, controlling and responding both in advance and real time. Hirokazu Matsuno, the chief cabinet secretary of Japan, said North's rocket disappeared from the radar above the Yellow Sea and did not make it into space. "We strongly condemn North Korea's actions," he said, adding that Tokyo lodged a complaint to Pyongyang through diplomatic channels in Beijing. The US State Department previously said that any North Korean launch that used ballistic missile technology would violate multiple UN Security Council resolutions. "Space launch vehicles (SLVs) incorporate technologies that are identical to, and interchangeable with, those used in ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles," a State Department spokesperson said. Pyongyang's National Aerospace Development Administration (NADA) will investigate the "serious defects" and take action to overcome them before conducting a second launch as soon as possible, according to KCNA. The satellite is one of several high-tech weapons systems that the Norths supreme leader publicly vowed to introduce in recent years. Other weapons he has pledged to develop include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A passenger who held down a man who opened an airplane door mid-flight has said he feared he would die during the terrifying incident. Lee Yoon-Joon was forced to physically restrain the passenger next to him, recalling in an interview with Yonhap News that he thought to himself Am I going to die?. He likened the incident to a disaster movie, according to a translation by ABCs Good Morning America. The passenger next to Mr Lee who opened the emergency exit door of an Asiana Airlines Airbus A321 on Friday, 26 May told police he felt suffocated and wanted to get off the plane quickly as it started to land. Lee Yoon-Joon (right, in red shorts) was next to the passenger who opened the plane door (Twitter) Mr Lee said he held him with bare hands after the passenger made eye contact with him before the door was flung open. Footage shows strong winds flooding into the aircraft whilst other passengers grip the armrests of their seats for dear life. It was chaos, with people close to the door appearing to faint one by one, flight attendants calling out for doctors on board and others running down the aisle in panic, another 44-year-old passenger told Yonhap News. I thought the plane was blowing up. I thought I was going to die like this. Police officers in plain clothes arrest the airplane passenger at Daegu International Airport (Yun Kwan-shick/Yonhap via AP) The accused of opening the emergency exit door arrives to attend an arrest warrant review at Daegu District Court (AP) The 33-year-old was later detained by police upon arrival in the South Korean city of Daegu for violation of aviation security law, which could carry a 10-year prison sentence if he is convicted. The flight had been travelling from the southern island of Jeju. He later told police that he was suffering from stress after losing his job, according to reports. However, on Sunday, Daegu police officers refused to provide details about the man to The Associated Press on account of privacy issues. The man had pulled the emergency exit door open whilst the plane was travelling at 700 feet, with experts saying the low altitude was the only reason he was able to do so. Following the incident, the captain behind the famous Hudson River landing - forced after the plane lost power in both engines on a flight from New York City to Charlotte and Seattle in 2009 explained. The door of the plane was opened in mid air, 700ft above the ground (Yun Kwan-shick/Yonhap via AP) The speed of the airplane means that once a door was opened, air would be rushing by, Captain Sullenberger told ABC News. In fact, at that speed, around 160 miles an hour from all indications, that would be the equivalent of a category five hurricane scale speed. He added that at a higher altitude, opening the fire exit door simply wouldnt have been possible. The plane had been carrying 194 people, including teenage athletes en route to a track and field competition. A dozen passengers were taken to hospital, mainly treated for minor issues including breathing difficulties. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Seouls residents were left furious over early morning air raid sirens that disrupted their routines on Wednesday after North Korea launched a spy satellite. Pyongyang failed to put the Chollima-1 satellite into orbit and the rocket carrying it had crashed into waters off the Korean Peninsulas western coast, local media reported. In South Koreas capital city, authorities sounded air raid sirens and sent mobile texts to residents as early as 6.32am on Wednesday, telling them to evacuate. But the emergency warning was lifted soon, fomenting anger and resentment among locals. Authorities faced a barrage of criticism from the residents over the mistakenly issued evacuation alerts. Many people reported waking up from sirens blaring through speakers at public schools around the city. It was so embarrassing, a tech company manager, who asked to be identified only by her surname Lee, told Nikkei Asia. My colleagues said they were so mad as babies were crying due to the alert message. I was taking my two young children to a basement parking lot as advised, in shock, a 37-year-old father who asked to be identified by his surname Yoon, told AFP. But the correction left him speechless and outraged. Now no one is going to believe a real alarm, just like in the fable about the boy who cried wolf, he lamented. It was really scary because the audio warning was so loud yet barely intelligible, a British teacher living in Seoul told The Independent. In my 7 years living in Korea, this is the only time weve ever been ordered to prepare to evacuate. People watch a television broadcast showing a file image of a North Korean rocket launch at the Seoul Railway Station on 31 May (Getty Images) The order to send an evacuation alert was received from the central governments disaster control centre. Please be prepared for evacuation. Let children and elderly people be evacuated first, read the text message sent to residents. But then just 20 minutes later, authorities issued a correction and said the earlier alert had been mistakenly sent. I was so scared for... some 10 minutes, as I had no idea where to go and was concerned for my cat, tweeted a Seoul resident. An emergency alert was sent to residents in Japans Okinawa as well. Seouls mayor Oh Se-hoon apologised for the confusion caused by the citys emergency alerts, but defended the decision to do so. He said the warning could be an excessive reaction, adding, but we do not think it was issued mistakenly. There should be no compromise on safety. It is our principle to take action, even if it can be excessive, he said. Handout image released by the South Korean defense ministry shows salvaged object presumed to be part of the North Korean space-launch vehicle that crashed into sea following a launch failure (Getty Images) Lee Jae-myung, the main opposition Democratic Party leader, criticised the government. It is embarrassing that a mistaken alert was issued in the early morning, he said. The government should be calm and act properly in a crisis. It should be careful not to make people anxious and confused. The North Korean launch, meanwhile, failed due to a rocket malfunction and crashed into the sea. UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres condemned the Norths military satellite launch. The Secretary-General strongly condemns the military satellite launch conducted by the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, Stephane Dujarric, the secretary-generals spokesperson, said in a statement. It was reported that Pyongyang might make a second attempt at the satellite launch before 11 June. Experts also believe that it is only a matter of time before North Korea has a functioning spy satellite. They said they would do it. They are remarkably open about their development plans, Andrew Lankov, an expert on North Korea at Kookmin University in Seoul, told Al Jazeera. They are determined to do it. They have the means. They have the engineers. They have the money. They will do it. Maybe not now. Maybe there will be a few more attempts, but finally they will succeed, Mr Lankov said. During a real attack, warnings and alerts can save lives by prompting people to take shelter, Ankit Panda, a nuclear weapons expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington, was quoted as saying by Financial Times. But false alarms erode public trust and can be actively destabilising in a crisis. Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Independent Climate email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Elon Musk said the interests of the US and China are intertwined like conjoined twins during his surprise visit to China on Tuesday amid strained diplomatic ties between the countries. The Tesla billionaire reached Beijing in his first visit to the country in over three years, visited Chinas top ministries and discussed electric vehicles. Mr Musk also met Chinas foreign, commerce, and industry ministers and dined with Zeng Yuqun, the chairman of top battery supplier CATL. The visit garnered a lot of attention in China and revealed adulation for Mr Musk from Chinese social media users, even as the relationship between Washington and Beijing plummeted. The interests of the United States and China are intertwined like conjoined twins, Mr Musk was quoted as saying by the foreign ministry of China. He was later also quoted by the countrys commerce ministry as saying that relations between the two countries were not a zero-sum game in which one side must lose if the other were to win. While little is known of the discussions the Twitter chief is having as he remains unusually quiet on social media Mr Musk and industry minister Jin Zhuanglong exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent networked vehicles, said the ministry. China, responsible for half of all global electric vehicle sales, serves as the location for Teslas first factory outside the US. The company reportedly submitted applications to expand its production facilities in Shanghai. Mr Musks plans were still awaiting approval as he earlier said it faces some constraints. The talks are expected to be aimed at easing this expansion, believe observers. The billionaires visit has also generated a lot of interest among Chinas netizens. Some called him a pioneer and Brother Ma, in an oblique reference to Jack Ma, while others said he should become the next US president. Hes a global idol, wrote one Chinese social media user. Elon Musk is just great, if only China could have someone like Elon Musk, said another. A worker stands next to a Tesla being charged in Beijing (AP) In recent months, foreign companies have been facing increasing pressure in China, with a recent crackdown on international consulting firms. Both the US and China have also imposed restrictions on each others chipmakers. American companies are also facing pressure from outside as increasing threats of military escalation with Taiwan forces businesses to diversify their supply chains away from China. Mr Musk, however, touted the Asian countrys development as its ministers assured they were looking at increased cooperation. The Chinese government statement cited Mr Musk as saying Tesla was willing to expand its business in China and opposes decoupling a reference to fears the world may split into multiple markets with incompatible products. China's foreign minister Qin Gang, right, poses for photos with Tesla chief Elon Musk (AP) On Tuesday, foreign minister Qin Gang told Mr Musk that China will unswervingly promote high-level opening up and create a market-oriented, law-based and internationalised business environment, said the government statement. Chinas development is an opportunity for the world, it said. Mr Qin also told Mr Musk that Chinas electric vehicle market has broad prospects for development. Mr Musk is expected to meet other senior Chinese officials and visit the Shanghai plant later in the week, reported Reuters citing sources. With China's economy also experiencing a slowdown and facing internal and external challenges, like anti-monopoly measures and the US-Chinese political tensions respectively, the ruling Communist Party has been engaging with more prominent CEOs off late. Chinese premier Li Qiang earlier held discussions with Apples Tim Cook, Pfizers Albert Bourla, Rio Tintos Jakob Stausholm and Toshiaki Higashihara of Hitachi, reiterating China's commitment to creating a favourable business environment. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A woman has shared some of the wild responses she got on Hinge, after she added her credit score to her profile. Shan, who goes by the username @spreadsheetshan, shared a video on TikTok last week about the experience. She started the photo montage by describing the situation as: Added my credit score to my Hinge and heres how it went. She proceeded to show the picture of her credit score: 804. The screenshot came from the website Credit Wise, which described her credit score as excellent. In this photo, she also shared a screenshot a response from a man named Aaron. All I needed to see, he replied, as he reacted to her credit score on Hinge. Drinks next Thursday? Shans photo montage continued with another response to the prompt, as one match named Kai said: Holy s*** marry me. As the responses continued, one person named Michael called the credit score a great flex, while another match joked that he was aroused by Shans score. Another man noted that while hed never seen someone on Hinge include their credit score, he respected Shans decision to do so. The photo montage concluded with more reactions to the credit score, such as: Hot and Woah. Another person replied with 800s club, in order to indicate the range in which their own credit scores fall. In the caption, Shan also poked fun at her decision to include her credit score on Hinge, as she joked that it was for research purposes only. A credit score is a mathematical formula that helps lenders determine how likely you are to pay back a loan. Credit scores are based on your credit history and range from 300 to 850. Speaking to The Independent, Colleen McCreary, consumer financial advocate at Credit Karma, also said that this score could determine how comfortable people are to lend you money. As of 30 May, Shans TikTok slideshow has more than 1.3m views, with people poking fun at how theyd feel about adding their credit scores to their dating profiles. Girl if they saw my credit score Id be blocked, one joked. About to add my 520 and my ADHD diagnosis just for fun, another quipped. A third wrote: There should be a dating app that analyses your banking apps and matches you with financially compatible people. Other people shared their concerns about the mens finances and dating intentions, since they chose to reply to Shans credit score. I feel like this is a red flag on their end, one wrote, while another agreed: The way I would think that noticing [the credit score] is a red flag. A third claimed: I would immediately assume all those people are poor. Some joked that Shan didnt need to show her score in the first place, one of which wrote: Girl the men dont need to know that. let them show you THEIR credit score. Speaking to BuzzFeed, Shan explained what encouraged her to put her credit score on her Hinge profile. I had the idea of adding my credit score to my Hinge because I wanted my profile to stand out and attract guys with similar priorities, she said. I felt like a guy that would find my credit score impressive, would also be someone that prioritised his finances. The Independent has contacted Shan for comment. Meanwhile, Shan isnt the only one who went viral by putting their credit score on Hinge. In February, Leah Nicewander shared the shocking amount of matches that she got, after including her credit score on Hinge. It also appeared that adding this to her dating profile paid off, as she said that she ended up going on 17 dates in 30 days. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Kylie Minogue, Cher, Britney Spears, Beyonce What do all of these stars have in common? They are all hugely popular with the LGBTQ+ community, and they are publicly heterosexual. The concept of gay icons a term used to describe public figures regarded as cultural icons by the LGBTQ+ community is nothing new. But, what makes somebody a gay icon, and how does a cisgender, heterosexual celebrity become LGBTQ+ royalty? The camp factor There isnt just one answer here. A number of factors can come into the picture and camp appeal is a big one. Camp, according to various dictionary definitions, describes things as being exaggerated or dramatic, often with an amusing edge. It can apply to aesthetics, fashion, behaviour and performance style all things which seem to seriously influence whether somebody reaches gay icon status. These celebrities like Kylie Minogue are tapping into camp dynamics and campness, which is a big theme in a lot of LGBTQ+ culture that of course shapes a lot of popularity they have, explains Dr Rosie Nelson, a sociologist of sexuality and gender at University of Bristol. Representation Many LGBTQ+ people also seek representation in popular culture something that is sometimes found in cis heterosexual artists. The reality is that LBTQ people often are not equipped with idols, they often are not born into a family with LGBTQ+ role models in it, says Nelson. Dr Milly Williamson, a senior lecturer in media and anthropology at Goldsmiths, says: Back in the days when homosexuality was illegal, there were no role models. Often the straight characters [we saw in pop culture] would have hidden LGBT connotations. This created a history of audiences appropriating those figures, appropriating straight characters who seem to speak in some way to LGBTQ+ identities, Williamson continues. There still arent that many gay icons and gay celebrities. Allies and champions Williamson adds that people from whatever community need to feel a sense of visibility and that lands in celebrity culture, she says. It is inevitable that people will seek out icons and figures. It makes sense that when it comes to heterosexual artists who become gay icons, they will often also be people who stand for the LGBTQ+ community and are strong allies. Many celebrities who are openly supportive of the LGBTQ+ community like Madonna, the late Elizabeth Taylor and even Princess Diana have gained gay icon status. Madonnas work is an embracing of sexuality and joy, she did some good work to showcase gay men within things like the Vogue music video, showing the ballroom scene, explains Nelson. For many, allyship is a key part of the picture. It saddens me that we often see straight, cisgender women given the title of gay icon for no more than the fact that they enjoy the support of our LGBT+ community, says Amy Ashenden, interim CEO of LGBTQ+ youth charity Just Like Us. However, its always so incredible to see people like Dannii Minogue stepping up their allyship by donating song proceeds to a brilliant LGBT+ charity, as well as women like Lorraine Kelly and Jade Thirlwall who have been vocal about the need to support trans people. In times where 72% of trans young people have faced verbal abuse in the past year, we desperately need more proactive allyship, Ashenden adds.Mutual understanding There is also often a mutual understanding between members of the LGBTQ+ community and celebrities who have experienced adversity or discrimination particularly females. For example, when asked about her own gay icon status back in 2020, Minogue told The Australian newspaper: Part of it is the music, part of it may have been a theory I explored, that I wasnt wasnt always given the easiest of times back then And I wonder if part of that coming together was an understanding of not being accepted for who you are. Williamson says there can be a sense of being united by struggle that comes into play between gay icons and LGBTQ+ fans. That sense of connecting with people, icons whose troubles are overt, is really important and makes them relatable, Williamson explains. The melodrama of existence is written largely in their very public life story, the inverse of the troubles and pains of people being forced into the closet. It gives voice to a pain that is hidden in the queer community. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Fans are defending a male employee at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Disneyland after a video showed the worker dressed as a Fairy Godmothers Apprentice. This week, TikTok user Kourtni (@kourtnifaber) shared a video of her familys recent trip to the Disneyland theme park in Anaheim, California. The clip, which gained more than seven million views, shows a male-presenting park employee named Nick greeting visitors at the childrens boutique. So, my names Nick. Im one of the Fairy Godmothers apprentices. Im here to shop you around and make all your selections for the day, they can be heard telling Kourtnis daughter at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. The Disneyland attraction allows children aged three to 12 to transform into a Disney prince or princess by choosing from a selection of costumes, hairstyles, makeup, nail colours, and accessories. The viral video showed the costumes ranging in price, from $250 to $450. Meanwhile, employees at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique wear uniforms similar to the iconic Fairy Godmothers dress from the 1950 animated classic film, Cinderella. Since it was posted this week, the TikTok video has received much backlash from conservative commentators, amidst an ongoing wave of anti-trans sentiment towards gender-inclusive advertising. Stop taking your family to Disney, tweeted TV host Sara Gonzales, while Rubin Report host Dave Rubin wrote: Think how many real girls want that job at Disney and they gave it to him for a reason Despite the supposed boycott, many fans have taken to social media to show their support for the Disneyland employee. Nick seems like an amazing person and one of the best at spreading magic, commented one viewer. I just fell in love with Nick. We need more Nicks in our world! another wrote. This is actually a good thing, said someone else on Twitter. Representation matters and children should be able to know that this is OK! Other Disney-goers took the opportunity to share their own alleged interactions with Nick at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. He was the sweetest. My daughter was worried about getting her nails done and he was so good and patient with her, said one TikToker. We had Nick and my girls loved him. He was so awesome! another commented. The Independent has contacted Kourtni and Disney for comment. In 2022, the Walt Disney Company announced that employees at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will receive the gender-neutral title change from Fairy Godmothers in Training to Fairy Godmothers Apprentices in an effort to be more inclusive. The backlash to the Disneyland employee comes amidst widespread outrage as retailers such as Target, Kohls and Adidas include gender-inclusive clothing in their Pride Month collections. Last week, Target announced in a statement that it would be pulling some Pride merchandise from stores and its website after employees experienced threats over the items including a tuck-friendly bathing suit option and greeting cards that used inclusive language. Given these volatile circumstances, we are making adjustments to our plans, including removing items that have been at the center of the most significant confrontational behavior. Our focus now is on moving forward with our continuing commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community and standing with them as we celebrate Pride Month and throughout the year, Target said in their statement. Meanwhile, Adidas faced criticism after including a male-presenting model wearing a womens swimsuit in its Pride Month campaign. Conservative critics claimed the photoshoot was erasing women by using the model to advertise its female clothing. The sportswear brands Pride 2023 collection which was designed by queer, South African designer Rich Mnisi was created as a symbol for self-acceptance and LGBTQIA+ advocacy. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} William, the Prince of Wales, is next in the line to the British throne, meaning that he will succeed his father King Charles III when he dies. While the King is understood to be in good health, there is a curiosity around Camillas title, which has been changed two times in the past year. When she married King Charles in 2005, she was officially known as the Duchess of Cornwall. After Queen Elizabeth IIs death in September, she became Queen Consort as her husband ascended to the throne. Then, at the coronation on 6 May, where she and Charles were crowned, the royal simply became known as Queen Camilla. In the circumstances that Charles, 74, were to die before Camilla, 75, her title would change again. Camilla would not become the monarch, since she married into the royal family and is not a blood relative. Prince William would likely become King since he is the heir to the throne. Her new title, in these circumstances, would be Queen Dowager the title of status generally held by the widow of a king. The title Queen Dowager was first used by Queen Adelaide when her husband King William IV died in 1837 and she outlived him by 12 years. The most recent example where a spouse outlived the monarch was Queen Elizabeths late mother, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, who was married to King George Vl and was known as the Queen Mother throughout Elizabeths reign. The Queen Mother outlived King George, who died in 1952, by 50 years. King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend a Celebration of Culture at Market Theatre Square on May 25, 2023 (Getty Images) Camillas situation is different since she married into the royal family and has no blood relatives in the line of succession. She was given her original title the Duchess of Cornwall in 2005 title since it was Charless late wife, Princess Diana, who was known as the Princess of Wales at the time. Camilla has two children from her first marriage, Laura Lopes and Tom Parker Bowles, and therefore does not have any blood relatives in the line of succession to the British throne. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} King Charles III will miss the Duke of Sussexs visit to London next week as he plans to go on a holiday retreat in Romania. Prince Harry is returning to the High Court in June as he takes Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) to court over allegations of phone hacking. It is understood that in the same week, the King will be visiting his holiday home in Romania for five days, a stripped-back former farmhouse in a cosy hamlet in Zalanpatak. It comes after Harrys brief visit to England for his fathers coronation earlier this month, during which he stayed in London for less than 24 hours before flying straight back to Los Angeles. The visit follows another trip made by the duke to the UK in late March for his phone hacking lawsuit claim against The Daily Mail. It is understood he did not see the King or other members of the royal family at the time. King Charles has a long history with Romania, where he owns at least 10 properties. The first property he bought there is a Saxon house in the village of Viscri, purchased in 2006. The hideaway is surrounded by hills and meadows of the Zalan Valley, which is frequented by wildlife such as wolves and bears. Queen Camilla will not be joining him on his annual visit to the holiday home, leaving the 74-year-old monarch to enjoy some R and R during the first year of his new role. Prince Harry made brief visit to London for his fathers coronation last month. (PA/Toby Melville) The holiday home has no wifi, TV or radio, but the drawing room now has a small hi-fi player with CDs. It has seven double rooms with en-suite bathrooms in three heritage cottages, each furnished with authentic Transylvanian antiques and textiles. Charles is understood to sleep in a little wooden bed when he stays at the property. The holiday retreat is typically rented out to visitors, with double rooms for an all inclusive-stay starting at 140 per night. It is not known where Harry will stay while in London, after he and the Duchess of Sussex were asked to vacate Frogmore Cottage this year. In March, while in the UK for his court case against The Daily Mail, the duke was believed to have stayed in Frogmore Cottage for the last time in order to sort out his and Meghans belongings that would be shipped to their home in Montecito, California. The Independent has contacted Buckingham Palace for comment. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The U.S. government warned that allegations of war crimes against Australian soldiers in Afghanistan could prevent U.S. forces from working with Australias Special Air Service Regiment, Australias defense force chief said on Wednesday. Gen. Angus Campbell told a Senate committee that he received a letter from the U.S. defense attache in Canberra in March 2021 suggesting the elite SAS may have been tainted by the allegations of war crimes in Afghanistan raised in an Australian war crime investigation report that was made public in 2000. Campbell said one individual had his posted position adjusted following the letter. The letter warned that the Brereton report, which detailed credible information that Australian soldiers had unlawfully killed 39 Afghan prisoners and civilians, could trigger a U.S. law that prevents the countrys military working with units linked to gross violations of human rights. I received a letter from the defense attache of the United States Armed Forces based in Canberra, to me, indicating that the release of the Brereton report and its findings may initiate Leahy Law considerations, Campbell said. Campbell said he did not believe he informed the defense minister at the time and had not informed the current defense minister, Richard Marles. Campbell was quizzed by senators on why he had not advised successive governments about such a letter from Australias most important security treaty partner. Independent Senator Jacqi Lambie asked whether the government should have been advised of such a pretty big matter. Campbell replied: I think theres a difference between may and does. So the defense attache was indicating that it may, rather than it does. I dont think this was an issue advised beyond" Campbell said. Marles' office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Police in March charged the first Australian veteran for an alleged killing in Afghanistan, three years after the Brereton investigation found that 19 Australian special forces soldiers could face charges for illegal conduct during the conflict. Former SAS trooper Oliver Schulz, 41, was charged with the war crime of murder in the death of an Afghan who was shot in 2012 in a wheat field in Uruzgan province. A Federal Court judge will rule on Thursday in a defamation case brought by Australias most decorated living war veteran, Victoria Cross recipient and former SAS trooper Ben Roberts-Smith, against three Australian newspapers that he alleges depicted him as a criminal who broke the moral and legal rules of military engagement in Afghanistan. Police are working with the Office of the Special Investigator, an Australian investigation agency established in 2021, to build cases against elite SAS and Commando Regiment troops who served in Afghanistan between 2005 and 2016. More than 39,000 Australian military personnel served in Afghanistan during the 20 years until the 2021 withdrawal, and 41 were killed there. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson are not scheduled to meet this week despite suggestions they would hold clear-the-air talks to tackle a series of thorny issues. It was understood on Tuesday there had been initial discussions about holding a telephone call but this is now not scheduled to go ahead. The two leading Conservatives would have a lot more to discuss than the row over the disclosure of Mr Johnsons WhatsApp messages and notebooks to the Covid-19 Inquiry. The meeting had been billed by the former prime ministers allies in the Sunday Times as an opportunity to discuss his honours list, which has attracted wide-ranging criticism. Several current Tory MPs are believed to have been listed which, if confirmed, would force the Conservatives to fight risky by-elections at a time of dire polling. Early electoral battles could be held in the seats of former culture secretary Nadine Dorries, Nigel Adams, another close ally of Mr Johnsons, and Alok Sharma, who was Cop26 president. There have also been renewed allegations of cronyism, with loyal aides and even his father Stanley Johnson reported to be put forward for honours. Boris Johnsons own political future could also be the centre of discussions. He could be forced to face his own by-election in his Uxbridge and South Ruislip seat under the worst-case scenario relating to the Privileges Committee inquiry into whether he lied to Parliament over Covid rule-breaking in No 10. Mr Sunak has said he will let MPs come to their own decision as individuals if the Commons is asked to approve a punishment for his predecessor. There has been suggestions Mr Johnson will not try to defend the west London constituency and will seek a safer seat, possibly Henley, the Tory stronghold he previously represented. Mr Johnson has also reacted furiously to the Cabinet Office decision to hand over entries from his official diary during the pandemic to police amid concerns of further rule-breaking. No 10 and the Cabinet Office have insisted ministers were not involved when Whitehall officials passed concerns to the Metropolitan Police and Thames Valley Police. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Britains future is outside the EU, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said, as he promised to make Brexit work. Writing in the Daily Express newspaper, Sir Keir who campaigned for Remain in the 2016 referendum also said he would not be seeking a return to freedom of movement. The comments are Sir Keirs latest pitch to Brexit-backing voters ahead of the next general election, with the Labour leader promising to improve on the UK-EU deal reached by Boris Johnson. As Prime Minister Rishi Sunak heads to the European Political Community summit in Moldova this week, the Labour leader said the subject of fixing the Trade and Co-operation Agreement between the UK and the EU must be high up the agenda. Whether it is working with European neighbours to tackle criminal gangs and stop dangerous boat crossings, or driving down the price of food for hard-pressed British families, there is huge potential for change Sir Keir Starmer If we are to make Brexit work, we need a government with the vision and the focus to deliver it, he wrote. As Rishi Sunak heads off to meet with Emmanuel Macron on Thursday, there are no signs that he or his Government have any proper plan to deliver that better future for our country. Britains future is outside the EU. Not in the single market, not in the customs union, not with a return to freedom of movement. Those arguments are in the past, where they belong. Sir Keir said that the current deal between London and Brussels is paper-thin, arguing that it had stifled Britains potential and hugely weighted trade terms towards the EU. We need to act now. New border controls coming in at the end of the year will further restrict trade, damaging businesses and households. There is a deal to be done that makes good on the British peoples desire to maintain Britains high food and animal welfare standards and prevent the burden of bureaucratic red tape. It could save our importers hundreds of millions of pounds a year. Every one of the problems I have outlined can be fixed from outside the EU. But it will require hard work, good relations and above all - honesty Sir Keir Starmer Whether it is working with European neighbours to tackle criminal gangs and stop dangerous boat crossings, or driving down the price of food for hard-pressed British families, there is huge potential for change. Thats why we should be optimistic. Every one of the problems I have outlined can be fixed from outside the EU. But it will require hard work, good relations and above all honesty. Labour has long accused the Government of failing to secure a good Brexit deal with the EU. Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves used a visit to Washington earlier this month to suggest that the current Brexit deal would be reviewed under a Labour government by 2025. Pretending everything is going fine or ducking hard conversations will see Britain miss opportunities and slip behind our competitors, he said. If we are to get this right, Rishi Sunak must face up to the truth that the Tories have got this wrong. Failure to do the hard yards needed right those wrongs will mean the Tories fail to deliver for Britain and fail to deliver on the promise of Brexit. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A man who stabbed his ex-girlfriend to death in an alleyway has been branded a proper coward by his victims sister for refusing to face court to be jailed. Dennis Akpomedaye, 30, tried to decapitate former girlfriend Anna Jedrkowiak while stabbing her almost 40 times in Ealing, west London, having stalked her from his home in Newport, South Wales, last May. Wearing a balaclava and with his hood up, he waited for the 21-year-old, known as Ania, to finish her shift at a Las Iguanas restaurant before following her and a young man. Akpomedaye was absent on Wednesday as he was jailed at Kingston Crown Court for life with a minimum term of 29 years, having not been present at the trial that ended with his murder conviction. Former justice secretary Dominic Raab had committed to preventing people convicted of the most serious crimes from refusing to appear before the families of their victims after a series of cases provoked outrage. Ms Jedrkowiaks sister, Katareyna Glowacka, 39, who lives in the UK, said Akpomedayes sentence should have been longer as he is a danger to society. Speaking about his non-attendance in court, she added: It just shows his true character, that he is a proper coward. He committed a crime but he is not able to face us, hes not able to look us in the eyes. For me personally, its really disrespectful that he killed my sister and he didnt show any remorse. He never gave any statement why he did it, he just killed her and went about his life like nothing ever happened, which is horrible. She was tearful in court as a statement describing her despair, helplessness and complete disbelief was read out. It is heartbreaking that my little baby boy will never meet his auntie Katareyna Glowacka She said: I am also very angry. I have been robbed of the opportunity to have a sister in my life. Ms Glowacka, who was pregnant when her sister died, added: It is heartbreaking that my little baby boy will never meet his auntie. She said her smart, tenacious and ambitious sister was also caring, kind and thoughtful, and was a gifted musician. Ms Jedrkowiaks mother Danuta, who lives in Poland, said in a statement read to the court: He, this murderer, is still alive and will be for many more years, despite the fact he took my daughters life. She said the barbaric way her daughter died meant her heart broke with grief and despair. Jack Maskell, 21, who worked at Las Iguanas, was walking with Ms Jedrkowiak when she was murdered after the pair had become more than just friends. He told the court: I have been left with indescribable memories that can never been erased. It was dark and cruel. I will never unsee what he did to her. Judge Rajeev Shetty told Ms Jedrkowiaks family: You have been present in court for the entire trial and sentence and heard the most painful evidence of Anias last moments. I cannot imagine the horror and upset you have experienced and I know, as has been said, that Anias premature death will leave a hole in your lives that can never be closed. What I can say is that you have behaved with dignity. The sentence cannot do much to help you grieve or recover, save that I hope it at least completes a process of justice being done. Akpomedaye, who was born in Nigeria, met Ms Jedrkowiak online in January 2021 and they dated for around a year before she ended the relationship. In the weeks before her murder, Akpomedaye, who could not accept the break-up, began trying to manipulate her by threatening suicide. Kerim Fuad KC, defending, said: It is truly tragic and awful that a relationship once so full of hope and love can have come to this. The photographs that the jury were shown of the defendant and Ms Jedrkowiak speak of happiness, love and hope for the future. Her life was to be ended by the defendants act borne of rejection and jealousy. He told the court that Akpomedaye had been slowly falling down a dark hole, living in maggot-infested squalor and facing financial difficulty. In the weeks before the murder he told Ms Jedrkowiak: We will be together no matter what. I will find you. Police say he has never shown any remorse for the murder, refusing to answer officers questions or attend court for his trial or sentencing. A promised law to pressure killers to appear in court for sentencing is at risk of being shelved after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak refused to commit to the legislation earlier this month. Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk said: Our thoughts remain with the family of Anna Jedrkowiak. Perpetrators of such appalling crimes who fail to face up to the consequences of their actions are cowards who show contempt for devastated friends and family members. Thats why we intend to change the law as soon as possible so families like Annas see justice done. Thomas Cashman was jailed for life with a minimum term of 42 years for fatally shooting nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel at her home in Dovecot, Liverpool, while pursuing a fellow drug dealer. Sex attacker Jordan McSweeney murdered 35-year-old law graduate Zara Aleena as she walked home in Ilford, east London, and was jailed for life with a minimum term of 38 years. Koci Selamaj received life with at least 36 years for murdering primary school teacher Sabina Nessa after travelling to London to carry out an attack on a random woman. All refused to appear in court for sentencing, with judgments being handed down in their absence. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A prison guard has been suspended for alleged religiously-motivated abuse against US fugitive Nicolas Rossi, a court has been told. Rossi, 35, is wanted in America accused of rape and his long-running extradition battle in the Scottish courts is entering its final phase. The fugitive has been held in HMP Edinburgh since his bail was revoked, and on Wednesday the citys sheriff court heard claims about his treatment there. His advocate Neil Shand told Sheriff Norman McFadyen that a number of incidents are said to have taken place inside the jail, including chanting and name calling directed towards Rossi. During a 53-minute preliminary extradition hearing, Mr Shand told the court a prison guard has been suspended for calling Rossi a name relating to his religious practice, which was described as a religious slur. Rossi has said he has converted to Judaism behind bars, previously describing himself as Anglo-Catholic. Mr Shand said Rossi had made a complaint about three prison staff over an incident which was alleged to have occurred last week. He said another inmate had said Rossi has been the victim of abuse from prisoners and from prison staff. Rossi, whose wife Miranda Knight attended the court to listen to proceedings, was expected to appear by video link but did not attend. Mr Shand said: The information passed from the prison is that he declined to make himself available and go to the room which the video link takes place. On previous occasions there have been differing accounts from Mr Knight and staff at the prison as to what went on or didnt. Mr Shand told the court he would not comment any further, and that the hearing could take place in his clients absence. Rossi had applied for an electronic monitoring assessment, but this was declined by Sheriff McFadyen. During the application for the assessment, as well as his treatment in prison, the court was also told of wheelchair user Rossis failing mental and physical health, with Mr Shand saying his clients blood oxygen levels were below 90%. At the previous hearing in the case, the court set deadlines for all expert reports to be submitted. But the psychiatric report, prepared by Psychology Direct, is still to be submitted. Mr Shand told the court the firm passed on its apologies but it is in the final stages of being prepared. A deadline has been set for next week for it to be sent. Prosecutor Colin Edward said there are now very tight time-scales, with just weeks left until Rossis full extradition hearing is scheduled to begin on June 26. Rossi has claimed to be the victim of mistaken identity and that he is an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight. A sheriff ruled in November that he is Rossi. It is alleged that Rossi faked his own death in 2020 and fled to the UK to evade prosecution for rape. He was arrested in December 2021 in Glasgow after becoming seriously unwell from Covid. A Scottish Prison Service spokesman said: An allegation has been made and is currently under investigation. It would therefore be inappropriate to comment further. We expect the highest standards of behaviour from all our staff, and where they fall short we have procedures in place to deal with this. All individuals in our care have the same right to legal representation and we have procedures in place to facilitate this. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The mother of a 10-year-old boy killed in a vicious dog attack involving an American bulldog said she is haunted by the death of her son. Jack Lis was attacked and killed by an XL Bully a breed developed from the American pit bull terrier last year in South Wales while he played at a friends house. Now, his mother Emma Whitfield has spoken of her pain since her sons death. Emma Whitfield says she has flashbacks to the tragic incident (ITV) I still have terrible flashbacks, the 32-year-old told the Daily Mirror. I still see the animal and its teeth. I hear the barking. Ms Whitfield said she relives the event multiple times a day. Its torture, she said. The mother added that she is still haunted by the image of a policeman dragging her son out of the dogs mouth by the arm. The dogs owner Brandon Hayden, then 19, was sentenced in June 2022 to just over four years at a young offenders institution and Amy Salter, then 29, was jailed for three years after they pleaded guilty to being in charge of the out of control dog, which was named Beast. Jack Lis was just 10 years-old when he was killed (PA Media) Ms Whitfield last year condemned the length of the sentences, saying they were too lenient. No sentence will ever be enough, she said at the time. Its not even close to justice. CCTV footage shows Beast lunging at strangers before fatal attack took place (Police handout) Beast lunging at a stranger before mauling Jack to death (Gwent Police) She called for tougher sentences with Salter possibly being released from prison before the end of the year. She only missed one Christmas when we have lost a lifetime of them, Ms Whitfield said. Now, the grieving mother is calling for Jack Lis Law, named after her son, to prevent more children from losing their lives as a result of dangerous dogs. The campaign is backed by the Dog Control Coalition which includes the RSPCA, Dogs Trust and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and Caerphillys Labour MP Wayne David. Amy Salter and Brandon Hayden were both convicted over the death (Gwent Police/PA) Ms Whitfield said the Government needs to act now to prevent more deaths, but insisted not all breeders or owners need policing under new legislation. A further 15 people have lost their lives in dog attacks in the 18 months since Jacks death, including an 83-year-old woman in Caerphilly, while there were nearly 22,000 cases of injuries from out-of-control dogs in 2022. The XL Bully is not recognised as an official breed by the UKs Kennel Club. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Police have launched a manhunt after a woman had boiling liquid thrown over her in an attack on a south London street. The woman was rushed to hospital after the scalding liquid was thrown over her on Walworth Road in Southwark, in November 2022. Police were called to the scene at 5.35pm but the attacker, who the woman did not know, was never caught. Now, the Metropolitan Police has shared a photograph of a man they wish to speak to in connection with the attack. In a statement, a spokesperson for the Met police said: It was subsequently established that a man who was not known to the victim had thrown boiling liquid at her. Detectives from the Central South Command Unit launched an investigation and carried out a number of enquiries, including a review of local CCTV cameras. An image of a man police would like to speak to has now been released. The woman was attacked with boiling water on Walworth Road in south London (Google Maps) Detective Chief Inspector Amanda Mawhinney said: We are yet to identify a suspect in connection with this attack, and this will clearly be of concern to the victim. We have now released an image of a man we want to trace who we think could assist our enquiries. Anyone who recognises him or has information that could assist us is asked to make contact immediately. Police are asking anyone with information about this incident to call 101 quoting CAD 5659/10Nov. To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Updated guidance on sex education in schools will be published for consultation in the autumn, with an expert panel appointed to advise on age ratings in a bid to ensure disturbing or inappropriate content is not being taught. The five members have been chosen for their expertise in child safeguarding, health, teaching, curriculum development and equalities, the Department for Education (DfE) said. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a review into Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) in March, after concerns that schoolchildren were being exposed to inappropriate content. The wellbeing and safeguarding of children is our absolute priority, and I share the concerns of parents and teachers about reports that inappropriate lessons are being taught in schools Education Secretary Gillian Keegan The DfE said the updated guidance is due to be published for consultation in the autumn term. It is aiming to have the review completed by the end of the year. The RSHE guidance is separate to guidance for schools in relation to transgender issues, which Mr Sunak has previously said will be published for the summer term. The independent expert advisory panel will be made up of Professor Dame Lesley Regan, professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at Imperial College London and the governments first ever womens health ambassador; Sir Hamid Patel, chief executive of Star Academies; Helena Brothwell, regional director of school improvement for David Ross Academy Trust; Alasdair Henderson, a barrister specialising in public law, human rights and equality law; and Isabelle Trowler, the Governments first chief social worker for children and families. The panel will provide expert advice to Education Secretary Gillian Keegan on what is appropriate to be taught in RSHE and at what age, the department said, drawing on advice from schools watchdog Ofsted about where clear age ratings are needed to reassure parents that there is no room for disturbing or inappropriate content to be taught in schools. Im determined to bring forward new guidance as quickly as possible, and schools should continue to engage with parents on lessons that cover the teaching of sensitive issues Education Secretary Gillian Keegan Ms Keegan said: The wellbeing and safeguarding of children is our absolute priority, and I share the concerns of parents and teachers about reports that inappropriate lessons are being taught in schools. The vast majority of teachers do an incredible job navigating these complex and sensitive issues. But the review of the statutory guidance with the help of this expert panel will provide clear safeguards against children being taught concepts they are too young to understand or that are inappropriate for their age. Im determined to bring forward new guidance as quickly as possible, and schools should continue to engage with parents on lessons that cover the teaching of sensitive issues. The department said the panel, who are expected to give their time on a voluntary basis, will begin work immediately and complete it by September. The Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) said schools had been left without support on the complex and sensitive subject. Its general secretary Geoff Barton said: The vast majority of schools already teach RSHE in a manner that is age-appropriate. The biggest challenge they face is the fact that they have been left to deliver this complex and sensitive subject with very little support from the government in terms of training and resources. We very much hope that the advisory panel will make recommendations not only on the RSHE curriculum but on the need for better support for schools. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The mother of a 10-year-old boy who was killed by an American XL Bully dog is calling for a change to the law to protect the public from out-of-control pets. Emma Whitfield, 32, lost her son, Jack Lis, after he was attacked in Pentwyn, near Cardiff, South Wales, in November 2021, and since then a further 15 people in Britain have died of injuries sustained from maulings by aggressive and untrained dogs. Earlier this month, Jonathan Hogg, 37, was killed in Leigh, Greater Manchester, by an animal of the same breed. A police investigation into Hoggs death led to the dog being destroyed, as well as two arrests and the seizure of 15 more, six of them adults and nine puppies. Detective chief inspector John Davies of Greater Manchester Police said: Dangerous dogs do not have a place in our communities, and we want to reassure the public that we are doing everything in our power to keep people safe. If you think someone has or is breeding dogs which endanger the public, please report it online or by calling 101. Recalling her own ordeal, Ms Whitfield told Metro: I still have terrible flashbacks. I still see the animal and its teeth. I hear the barking, You relive it multiple times a day its torture. I still find it unbelievable. Sat on the sofa or on the way home, it hits you all over again. Ms Whitfields campaign, the Jack Lis Law, is seeking new legislation to regulate the breeding, training and sale of dogs and is being supported by the Dog Control Coalition, which includes the RSPCA, the Dogs Trust and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, among others. The existing Dangerous Dog Act 1991 prohibits the ownership of certain types of fighting dogs in the interest of protecting the public but has been widely criticised as unsatisfactory since its implementation. Introduced by then-home secretary Kenneth Baker in 1991 after a spate of 11 fatal dog attacks made headlines, Section 1 of the Act outlaws certain dogs bred for fighting (naming the pitbull terrier, Japanese tosa, fila Brasiliero and the dogo Argentino but, crucially, not American bulldogs). Section 2 makes it a criminal offence for the owner to fail to control an aggressive dog in their care in public and Section 3 outlines the rules surrounding destruction orders. The legislation has been critiqued for addressing only the physical harm done to humans, not to other animals or the mental distress likely to result from a dog attack. Jac Lis, 10, died after being mauled by a dog in Pentwyn, near Cardiff (Family handout/PA) (PA Media) Organisations such as the UK Kennel Club, Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the British Veterinary Association have all argued that it is not scientific to tar an entire breed as dangerous and that ownership and environment play a huge role in a dogs development. The former states on its website: The law on dangerous dogs refers to specific breeds of dog as dangerous. However, we believe that breed-specific legislation ignores the most important factors that contribute to biting incidents primarily anti-social behaviour by irresponsible dog owners who train their dogs to be aggressive or do not train their dogs adequately. The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 has proven that demonising certain breeds makes them more attractive to people who want to flout the law and use dogs in this way. The problem of dangerous dogs is a social one and needs to be tackled through the enforcement of effective legislation that seeks to curb irresponsible owners of all types of dog and better educate the dog-owning public to prevent incidents before they occur. The reason American Bullies an American version of the pitbull terrier crossed with American, English and Olde English bulldogs were not included in the act is that they were barely known at the time of its drafting, emerging since the 1980s as a popular status dog, their sudden bursts of aggression prized in certain quarters. I see people with them all the time: they are usually owned by young men, expert handler Colin Tennant recently told The Times. These big, muscular, thuggish dogs are an extension of the male ego. For the owner, the scarier the dog, the better. Dogs are just another weapon like a knife. Theres a huge market for them. For many, it is the culture surrounding the ownership of aggressive dogs such as American Bullies that needs addressing, not the animals themselves, who require only proper socialising and training as puppies to prevent their violent instincts from becoming a problem in adolescence. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A family was forced to put up three Argentinian tourists after scammers listed their home on Booking.com. Students Jessica, Natalia and Sabrina showed up at Karin Arseniuss property in Plumstead, south London, after booking a visit to the capital. However, when they arrived and found the home occupied by the family who live there they soon realised the problem. Ms Arseniuss partner took the trio to the pub to try to resolve the matter with Booking.com but was unsuccessful. The couple even tried to get the tourists into a local hotel, but they were all booked up, Ms Arsenius told the BBC. Have you faced a similar problem? If so email martha.mchardy@independent.co.uk There was nothing free so in the end we said were not comfortable with just letting you go out in the night so lets just make up some beds in the living room and you can just stay here, the 37-year-old said. But it shouldnt ever have got that far. It should have been taken care of, even if Booking.com is put out. Ms Arsenius said around 20 unexpected guests have arrived at her property, and in the past month unexpected guests have turned up from all around the world, including Algeria, Canada, India and the US. The Plumstead resident said her streets postcode had been used for the bookings on the travel website, and her house was beneath the pin drop. Ms Arsenius is now considering taking legal action against Booking.com, who have since apologised and removed the listing. We just need it to stop somehow, she said. It is very frustrating. Students Jessica, Natalia and Sabrina had booked a place to stay but had to pay out a second time due to the scam (Sourced) Sabrina Salome Schneider, 31, who showed up at Ms Arsenius house on 27 May said the experience was a nightmare. The 31-year-old said she still has to spend money on a new place to stay and she is still waiting for money from Booking.com. Last year, a north London woman told BBC Radio 4 around 100 tourists showed up at her house after it was listed on Booking.com with pictures of an entirely different property in Chelsea. The website subsequently removed the listing. In a statement, Booking.com said: We take safety and security very seriously, and every week, we facilitate millions of stays with the vast majority taking place with absolutely no problems. Scams are unfortunately a battle many industries are facing against unscrupulous fraudsters looking to take advantage and it is something we are tackling head on. We have a number of robust security measures in place, but in the very rare instance there may be an issue with a specific property we always investigate immediately. We can confirm this property has been completely removed from our site and all customers affected were contacted by a member of our customer service team to apologise and offer any support required in relation to refunds, relocations and additional fees, and we of course extend our sincere apologies to the homeowner. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The Duke of Sussex is expected to return to the UK to give evidence in the latest of his legal battles against British newspaper publishers. Prince Harry will be in London next week for a High Court trial, just over a month after he attended the coronation of his father the King. He will take to the witness box in the trial brought alongside other high-profile figures seeking damages from Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) over alleged unlawful information gathering including phone hacking at its titles. It is thought to be the first time a senior member of the royal family has personally appeared in court proceedings since 2002, when the Princess Royal pleaded guilty to a charge under the Dangerous Dogs Act after her pet bit two children in Windsor Great Park. The dukes visit to see Charles being crowned was his first public appearance alongside the royal family since he criticised his relatives in his controversial memoir Spare. Within hours of the historic ceremony, Harry was on a plane back to California to be reunited with wife Meghan, daughter Lilibet and son Archie, who turned four on the day of the coronation, May 6. The Sussexes made headlines a short while later when a spokesperson alleged the couple and Meghans mother were involved in a near-catastrophic car chase at the hands of a ring of highly aggressive paparazzi after the trio attended an awards ceremony in New York where the duchess was honoured. MGN, publisher of the Daily Mirror, Sunday Mirror and Sunday People, is contesting claims brought by Harry and others over allegations that its journalists were linked to voicemail interception, securing information through deception and hiring private investigators for unlawful activities. Harry is one of four representative claimants whose cases have been selected for the trial. The others are Coronation Street actors Michael Turner and Nikki Sanderson and comedian Paul Whitehouses ex-wife Fiona Wightman. The duke is due to attend court for the opening of his case against MGN on Monday, and is expected to enter the witness box on Tuesday. His relationship with the King and his brother the Prince of Wales are strained and Harry is unlikely to spend time with his relatives during what is expected to be a brief visit to the capital. It is thought Harry still has use of Frogmore Cottage in Berkshire, before the Sussexes must vacate the property, but it is not known if he will use it. Harry now lives in Montecito, California, with Meghan and their children after the couple stepped down as working royals for a life of financial independence. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A devastating catalogue of failings in the Home Offices flawed and inefficient asylum system has been uncovered in a damning UN report. The eight-month audit of the UKs asylum system by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) picked apart the governments immigration policy to reveal a deeply dysfunctional department. The 200-page report found that children were wrongly detained as adults, trafficking victims were potentially missed, vulnerable people were locked up, and laws and government policies were violated. It concluded that: Officials had inadequate training and interview skills to identify victims of torture, trafficking and rape Incomplete, inaccurate or unreliable information was being taken from asylum seekers Children were being accused of lying about their age by officials with no formal training or guidance Home Office staff were wrongly discouraging people from claiming asylum, or trying to persuade them to withdraw claims Asylum seekers were being left in limbo at a higher cost to the government because they were deemed ineligible after passing through safe countries The report, in which Home Office staff told of their frustration that government policies were slowing down the system and driving up costs, comes a day after The Independent revealed that officials were considering strike action over the plan to deport people to Rwanda. Yvette Cooper, the shadow home secretary, said the report exposes a host of failures in the initial processing of asylum seekers failures that are holding up the system and contributing to the damaging delays. The home secretary needs to stop posturing and start fixing the asylum system she and her party have broken, she told The Independent. Jon Featonby, the Refugee Councils chief policy analyst, said men, women and children are already being left in limbo for far too long. The Illegal Migration Bill will potentially leave hundreds of thousands of people in a permanent state of limbo, unable to get on with their lives, he added. If the government is serious about tackling the asylum backlog and reducing the number of people making dangerous journeys to get to the UK, it needs to urgently change direction. Instead of this unworkable and unprincipled plan, the focus should be on giving people a fair and timely hearing in the UK, and creating more safe ways for people to arrive. The following are among the harrowing cases revealed by the UNHCR. Tortured child asylum seeker treated as adult A teenager arrived on a small boat on 1 July 2021 and was assessed as clearly over the age of 25 by an immigration officer, despite telling them he was 17. Official notes on a Home Office database said: My initial instinct was that the applicant is significantly older than 17. Based on his size, hair, skin, behaviour and my experience I was not satisfied that he is the claimed age. Without any formal assessment, the applicant was transferred to Yarls Wood Immigration Removal Centre for detention. When a screening interview was conducted by a member of a separate Home Office unit, the boy said he had suffered a lot through my journey, including being tortured, and had nightmares and blackouts. He also said he had a brother in the UK. When an age assessment took place four months later, the Home Office accepted he was 17, and he was granted asylum in July 2022. The boy was wrongly detained at Yarls Wood (Getty) Young girl not helped after sexual assault reported The UNHCR observed a screening interview in which a female asylum seeker reported that her young daughter had been sexually assaulted shortly before they had arrived in the UK. The mother said that the child who was asleep on the floor of the interview room at the time was clearly traumatised, not sleeping properly, and constantly biting her nails. The woman had requested an interpreter, but none was provided, and she struggled to recount the incident. She said her daughter had been attacked after going to a bathroom, telling the Home Office official that men took her to the dark room and made some not good touch. The UNHCR said a safeguarding team did not follow up the report or attend to the childs welfare. Unaccompanied child found to be over 25 In November 2021, a teenager was sent to a hotel for adult asylum seekers, but said he was a minor on arrival and was put in a taxi back to the Kent asylum intake unit. A Home Office official had assessed him to be over the age of 25, but the boy gave his year of birth as 2004. When he was told about the age assessment at a later interview, the UNHCR said, the asylum seeker looked very surprised and pointed to his thin arms and his lack of facial hair. When the UNHCR asked the official how age assessments were made, he said he had received no formal training but believed that adults are more confident and aggressive, and adolescents more angsty. The applicant was later accepted to be a child. Asylum seekers blocked from accessing accommodation by locals Potential trafficking victims not followed up The UNHCR said it had directly observed several cases in which indicators of trafficking or exploitation were not followed up, including a man who said he had been imprisoned and forced to work in Libya, a Vietnamese woman whose case was flagged but who then disappeared, and two others who described being subjected to violent abuse by their smugglers. Children as young as 12 sent to adult detention centres Home Office staff told the agency that children and vulnerable adults were regularly sent to detention centres in violation of Home Office policy. We were told by officers there was a child of 12 sent to Yarls Wood for detention, the UNHCR said. Suella Braverman is backing legal changes that would see age-disputed applicants treated as adults if they refuse to undergo new scientific age assessments (PA) Home Office official allows womans husband to answer safety questions The UNHCR warned that a lack of training among those interviewing people who could be victims of domestic violence or other abuse was creating serious risks. In one asylum interview its officials observed, an experienced interviewer allowed a man whom the claimant had identified as her UK-based husband to remain present throughout the interview. The report said he spoke to the woman in a different language without translation, put his hand on her arm when she was preparing her answers and when asked if she was safe in her accommodation, gave a thumbs up sign before the woman answered. The only phone number taken from the claimant was that of the man, but a formal note recorded no safeguarding concerns. Asylum seekers request for interpreter refused The UNHCR said in one observed interview where a claimant had asked for an interpreter, a Home Office official refused on the basis that the claimant had come to the UK on a student visa which required knowledge of the English language and so she should not need one. The claimant explained that she felt uncomfortable continuing in English, and later could not find the right word to describe an important detail. She said she had had difficulty understanding all the questions, but the official said it would not matter. The asylum seekers request for an interpreter and concerns were not recorded, and a transcript falsely claimed that she answered yes to the unasked question: Are you able to conduct an interview in English? Interpreters guiding interviewees The UNHCR said it had also observed some interpreters taking a role significantly beyond interpretation, guiding asylum claimants, engaging in conversation with them without translating it for Home Office officials, and even arguing in some cases. When one interpreter was meant to put a series of security questions to a man, they told him: Answer No to all these seven questions you have. The UNHCR warned that a widespread perception that asylum seekers would respond by saying No to all of the questions about security and criminality meant that these questions were not properly asked or their answers recorded. A Home Office spokesperson said: This report is based on an audit that took place in 2021 and early 2022. Since then, significant improvements have been made to the processing of small boats arrivals. Specialist facilities have been made available to accommodate young people, including unaccompanied asylum-seeking children. Our staff are working relentlessly to safely register and screen unprecedented numbers of migrants arriving in the UK illegally. We are pleased that their professionalism was praised and thank the UNHCR for their report. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Madeleine McCann, a three-year-old girl from Rothley, Leicestershire, went missing from the Portuguese holiday resort of Praia da Luz on the Algarve on 3 May 2007, a case still unsolved and still the subject of intense interest among the public and press. Follow all the latest updates on The Independents live blog Her parents, Kate and Gerry McCann, posted a statement on the Find Madeleine website on 3 May 2023 marking the latest anniversary of their daughters disappearance, reiterating their hopes of being reunited with her one day and posting a poem, The Contradiction by Clare Pollard, to express their feelings. Today marks the 16th anniversary of Madeleines abduction. Still missing... still very much missed, they wrote. The police investigation continues, and we await a breakthrough. Thank you to everyone for your support- it really helps. Here is a reminder of the events of the case. The story began when the McCanns affluent doctors Kate and Gerry, their three-year-old daughter Madeleine and her two-year-old twin siblings joined a group of seven family friends and their five children on holiday at the Ocean Club in the village of Praia da Luz on the southwestern tip of Portugal on 28 April 2007. After a pleasant spring break by the sea, the adults in the party went out for dinner at the resorts open-air tapas bar on 3 May, gathering at 8.30pm. The children were left behind sleeping in their respective apartments with the doors unlocked and a rota system in place among the parents to ensure that someone returned every half-hour to check on them. When Kate McCann took her turn and returned to her apartment at 10pm, she raced back to the restaurant screaming Madeleines gone! Someones taken her! The police were quickly called and 60 staff and fellow guests searched the complex, calling out the girls name in vain until daybreak the following morning. Border police and airport staff were put on alert and hundreds of volunteers joined the efforts to find the missing girl over the coming days, the case fast becoming a sensation. Madeleine McCann (PA) The Portuguese authorities would later attract criticism over their conduct in the crucial earliest hours of the investigation when the trail might still have been warm, accused of making rudimentary mistakes like failing to conduct a house-by-house search of every local residence or interview all of the other guests at the resort, acting slowly to erect roadblocks and potentially compromising forensic evidence at the crime scene. The police initially stated that they believed Madeleine was still alive and had been abducted from the room by a stranger as the parents described their anguish and despair over her vanishing, a worst fear realised for any parent. On 26 May, police issued a description of a suspicious man seen on the night of the girls disappearance. The individual in question was spotted by Jane Tanner, one of the McCanns dining companions, who said she had seen a Mediterranean man with dark hair and beige trousers carrying a child close to the apartment when she went to check in on her own children. Scotland Yard would later come to dismiss the sighting as a red herring. The search continued as the summer progressed amid a wild media circus and with huge fundraising activities underway, the McCanns setting up Madeleines Fund on 15 May to raise cash to support further investigation and keep the profile of the case high, attracting generous donations from celebrities like Richard Branson, Simon Cowell, JK Rowling and Coleen Rooney. By 30 May, the case was such a cause celebre that they were being flown out to meet the Pope at the Vatican in Sir Phillip Greens Learjet. A local man, Robert Murat, subsequently became its first suspect and had his house and car searched, his swimming pool drained and his electronic devices confiscated but no evidence was found to link him to Madeleine and the matter was soon dropped. By June, the Portuguese police admitted that they had failed to protect potentially useful evidence at the scene as frustration with the lack of developments grew and the media began to question whether the McCanns themselves had been involved in the matter. Lurid tabloid allegations suggested the couple and their friends might have been swingers and that the McCanns, as physicians, might have been in the habit of sedating their children, while others claimed inconsistencies in their version of events. Gerry and Kate McCann (AP) The intensity of the hostility towards the parents would later be described by Roy Greenslade of The Guardian as no journalistic accident, but a sustained campaign of vitriol against a grief-stricken family, singling out The Daily Express and Daily Star for particular condemnation. In July, assistance offered by former South African police officer Danie Krugel who claimed his handheld matter orientation system could help to find Madeleine was rubbished, while British police sent over two springer spaniel sniffer dogs to search for DNA. Relations with the local authorities would ultimately sour as the latter came to resent British intrusion into a Portuguese inquiry, according to Anthony Summers and Robbyn Swans book Looking for Madeleine (2014). By August, Madeleine has been missing for 100 days and police admitted for the first time that she may never be found. They also told the McCanns that they were no longer considering the matter an abduction case but, rather, a murder inquiry. The McCanns themselves were interviewed as arguidos (suspects) by Portuguese police in September, with the parents told that the dogs had discovered DNA evidence from the missing girl in the boot of their holiday rental car, lines of inquiry that had already been leaked to the British press. They vehemently denied having any part in her disappearance. Despite being listed as suspects (a designation that would linger until the following July), the McCanns were allowed to return to Britain on 9 September. A day later, chief inspector Tavares de Almeida of the Policia Judiciaria in Portimao signed a nine-page report concluding that Madeleine McCann had died in their apartment as a result of an accident, that the tapas dinner and rota checks on the McCann children had been part of a planned cover-up, that the familys friends had helped to mislead the police and that the McCanns had concealed the body and then faked an abduction. A public prosecutor subsequently applied for the confiscation of Kate McCanns diary and Gerry McCanns laptop plus the groups phone records. On 2 October, chief inspector Goncalo Amaral was removed from the case and transferred after alleging that the British police were only interested in pursuing leads favourable to the McCanns. He would later publish a book, Maddie: The Truth of the Lie, the following summer, resulting in a lengthy libel battle with the McCanns that would run back and forth through the courts until March 2017. Back in Britain, Gerry McCann issued a video that November in which he speculated that his family had been watched by a predator during their stay at Praia da Luz. His wife had come to believe that a potential perpetrator could have seen a note in the resorts guest book visible to all in reception noting their dining arrangements on the evening of Madeleines disappearance. The couple followed up on 20 January 2008 by releasing a sketch of a creepy man they said other holidaymakers had said they had seen loitering at the Ocean Club. In April, a month before the one-year anniversary of the fateful night, Portuguese police travelled to Leicestershire to conduct further interviews with the McCanns friends. Then, on 21 July, Portugals attorney general, Fernando Jose Pinto Monteiro, announced that there was no evidence to link either the McCanns or Robert Murat to the disappearance and closed the case, unsolved. With the trail cold and no closure in sight, the McCanns continued to publicise their cause, issuing computer-generated images of how Madeleine might look now that she had aged on 3 November 2009 and condemning the release of previously unseen Portuguese police files detailing possible sightings of their daughter to British newspapers in March 2010. The McCanns published a book of their own about their ordeal in May 2011, entitled simply Madeleine, which was serialised in The Sun as the newspaper led a campaign calling on British prime minister David Cameron to launch a new inquiry. He did so. Commenced by then-home secretary Theresa May, the Metropolitan Polices Operation Grange would be led by commander Simon Foy and comprise a team of three detective inspectors, five detective sergeants, 19 detective constables and six civilian staff. It began to yield results in 2013, with Scotland Yard formally announcing a new investigation in July and saying in October it had identified 41 potential suspects. That same month, BBC Crimewatch released an e-fit image of a man of particular interest who had been seen in Praia da Luz with a child matching Madeleines description in May 2007. Detectives arrived in Portugal in January 2014 promising new arrests and finally searched the village in June, interviewing four people the following month but without unearthing new information. The quartet would be definitively ruled out in April 2017, before the UK government said it would continue to fund the investigation until 2020, having already admitted it had cost 10m in its first four years of operation. That investment had enabled detectives to have tens of thousands of documents translated, investigate over 8,000 potential sightings, take 1,338 statements, collect 1,027 exhibits and investigate 650 sex offenders and 60 persons of interest, all without definitively establishing the truth. The Madeline McCann case lay dormant before suddenly exploding into life in June 2020 when German media revealed that Christian Brueckner, a 43-year-old prisoner with a track record of child abuse and drug trafficking, had been identified as a new suspect by the public prosecutor of the German city of Braunschweig. Christian Brueckner (Italian Carabinieri) He had reportedly been living in a Volkswagen camper van in the Algarve at the time of Madeleines disappearance and one woman has since come forward to suggest she saw a girl that might have been Madeleine speaking German in a supermarket in Portugal in 2017. German investigators classified their probe into his movements as a murder inquiry, saying they were working on the assumption that Madeleine is dead and reporting in July 2021 that they had found an abandoned cellar beneath his former allotment near Hanover where she could, theoretically, have been held captive. Hans Christian Wolters, the prosecutor leading the investigation into Brueckner, has said he was very confident the inmate is responsible for kidnapping her. If you knew the evidence we had you would come to the same conclusion as I do but I cant give you details because we dont want the accused to know what we have on him these are tactical considerations, he told the BBC. It was subsequently revealed that Madeleines Fund still had 773,629 to spend as of 31 March 2020, meaning the McCanns can continue to bankroll a private investigation to find their daughter long after the police hunt is finally drawn to a close, should they choose to. Brueckner was formally made a arguido in relation to the case on 21 April 2022. On 19 September, the McCanns lost their libel case against Mr Amaral, the former chief inspector who had investigated the disappearance, before the European Court of Human Rights. The couple had attempted to argue that Mr Amaral was responsible for damaging their reputation and breaching their rights to respect for their private life and to be presumed innocent after taking exception to his book and associated media appearances in which he had repeatedly suggested they were responsible for the vanishing. Their complaint also argued that Portugals Supreme Court had failed to allow them proper redress over the alleged libel by Mr Amaral after judges threw out their earlier claim in 2017. The verdict left the McCanns with three months to appeal against the decision. In February 2023, a Polish woman called Julia Faustyna made headlines by claiming she was Madeleine, using the Instagram name @iammadeleinemccann. Ms Faustyna, 21, did not provide any supporting evidence but sought DNA tests to prove her origins. The results ultimately revealed that she was entirely of Polish origin, with no British heritage, disproving her claims for good. In April 2023, a court in Braunschweig dropped a rape charge against Brueckner, unrelated to the Madeleine McCann case, concluding it did not have jurisdiction. Police in Germany continue to claim they have concrete evidence that Madeleine is dead but this has still not been confirmed and their investigation is ongoing, with Brueckner still not charged in the McCann case. Like her parents, Madeleines sister Amelie, now 18, observed the 16th anniversary of her disappearance in May 2023. Speaking publicly for the first time at a prayer meeting in Rothley, she said: Its nice that everyone is here together but its a sad occasion. Amelie McCann reportedly joined in with chants including Never never give up, leave no stone unturned, dont forget about me and still missing, still missed. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The government's failed attempts to deport small boat migrants are merely leaving asylum seekers in limbo at a higher cost to the public, a damning United Nations report has found. It suggested that ministers should drop their refusal to consider claims from refugees who have passed through France and other safe countries because of the absence of deportation agreements. An eight-month audit of the UKs asylum system by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) found that Home Office staff were frustrated at being barred from considering small boat cases immediately when it was inevitable that these cases would be determined in the UK. They warned that failing attempts to declare boat migrants inadmissible for asylum merely caused unnecessary delays and inefficiencies, worsening the asylum backlog and driving up soaring costs for hotel accommodation. With the Rwanda deal held up by legal action and an EU-wide arrangement lost during Brexit, the UK has only deported six asylum seekers for passing through safe third countries in a year. Official figures show that since the government changed its rules in January 2021, 55,000 asylum seekers have been considered for inadmissibility but only 23 have been removed from the UK, while over 27,500 were subsequently admitted into the UK asylum process for substantive consideration. More than 170,000 asylum seekers are currently awaiting an initial decision on their claims, with the record figure rocketing by 50 per cent in a year. The UNHCRs report called for the government to re-evaluate policies that are slowing down asylum processing, in particular with regard to inadmissibility decisions that merely leave asylum seekers in limbo at a higher cost to the UK government. Vicky Tennant, the bodys representative to the UK, said: Fair and efficient asylum systems help ensure that refugees are able to access the protection they need and to start rebuilding their lives. Equally important, they help maintain public confidence by allowing governments to pursue arrangements for the return of people who are found not to have international protection needs. Flawed and inefficient screening procedures are currently undermining the UKs asylum capacity placing vulnerable people at risk and adding to the pressure on public resources. The UNHCR called for the government to stop suspending asylum processing for people who are not reasonably likely to be readmitted or transferred to other countries, saying the change would reduce demands on asylum support and accommodation and promote asylum seekers integration or return. Archbishop of Canterbury condemns Rwanda deportations It also said civil servants should not be made to waste time requesting deportations to countries that the UK does not have an agreement with. Internal Home Office guidance states that asylum seekers can be declared inadmissible if they are deemed to have a connection to a safe country that is not the UK or their home nation. It includes people who have travelled through countries like France, where the government argues they could have made an application for asylum before moving onwards to the UK. Examples given to civil servants include an asylum seeker who spent a couple of weeks in Brussels staying with friends whilst trying to find an agent to bring them illegally to the UK. An official who decides asylum claims told The Independent the situation was ludicrous, adding: Britain is an island, you have to pass through a different country. David*, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said he considers cases that have been delayed for months before the Home Office gives up on the process all the time. We dont have any deportation agreements to deal with it, he added. In order to send people to another country, you need to have an agreement. The UNHCR warned of potential legal action over the process, saying that people are referred for inadmissibility consideration on the basis of brief screening interviews where they are asked questions about their route to the UK without being made aware of the reasons why, or the potential consequences of their answers. It also found that some asylum seekers arriving at airports were being wrongly flagged for simply changing planes on direct journeys to Britain. The report, based on eight months of research Home Office allowed UNHCR officials access to its internal records, interviews and small boat processing centres in 2021, called for an overall redesign of processes. It warned that Home Office staff were not adequately trained and overseen, that poorly designed systems were causing hours of wasted or duplicated work and that failings were causing numerous risks to the welfare of asylum seekers, including children and the victims of torture and trafficking. A Home Office spokesperson said: This report is based on an audit that took place in 2021 and early 2022. Since then, significant improvements have been made to the processing of small boats arrivals. Our staff are working relentlessly to safely register and screen unprecedented numbers of migrants arriving in the UK illegally. We are pleased that their professionalism was praised and thank the UNHCR for their report. *name has been changed to protect anonymity For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Sir Keir Starmer has been told by trade union Unite that any plan to block new North Sea oil and gas developments must not leave workers paying the price. Unite, the partys single biggest donor, told the Labour leader that such a move could risk a repeat of the devastation caused by the closure of coal mines. Sir Keir is reportedly on the verge of announcing the plan when he sets out his net-zero energy policy next month, but the move has prompted a backlash from the partys trade union backers concerned about the impact on workers. Grabbing the headlines is easy, developing a serious plan for more renewable energy is not Unite general secretary Sharon Graham Graham Stuart, minister for climate and net zero, said earlier this month that the Government is committed to new North Sea oil and gas licences. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham hit out at Sir Keir on Wednesday and said the proposal lacks crucial details. Grabbing the headlines is easy, developing a serious plan for more renewable energy is not, she said. When Keir Starmer decided to let the world know that he would halt new oil and gas production in the North Sea he left out everything that was important the detail. Labour must now be very clear that they will not let workers pay the price for the transition to renewable energy. When it comes to jobs we cant have jam tomorrow. Ms Graham, who heads one of the UKs largest trade unions, accused the Labour leadership of behaving recklessly by failing to offer a clear plan to protect jobs. We cannot have a repeat of the devastation wrought on workers and their communities by the closure of the coal mines. It is reckless in the extreme to talk about halting this industry without offering a coherent, fully funded plan for jobs Unite general secretary Sharon Graham She said such a move by Labour, if not well-thought through, could have the same impact as the mass closure of the coal mining industry in the second half of the last century. Closures in the 1980s prompted a bitter and protracted stand-off between the Conservatives under Margaret Thatcher and striking miners. We cannot have a repeat of the devastation wrought on workers and their communities by the closure of the coal mines. It is reckless in the extreme to talk about halting this industry without offering a coherent, fully funded plan for jobs, Ms Graham said. A workers transition plan for the North Sea must involve three things. First, it needs to put workers in the industry, and their communities, front and centre. It must be carried out with their full involvement and guarantee decent jobs for all involved with no loss of pay and conditions. Second, it will require substantial investment. We have yet to see Labour, or any political party, commit to the serious amounts that will be needed. Ms Graham said her union wants public ownership and democratic control of the energy sector under any changes. Britains recent economic history is littered with political betrayals and broken promises that have left industrial workers on the scrap heap Unite general secretary Sharon Graham We cannot trust the private sector, whose only concern is squeezing every last drop of profit out of the UKs remaining oil and gas reserves, to deliver for workers and communities. Britains recent economic history is littered with political betrayals and broken promises that have left industrial workers on the scrap heap. That is why workers need to take charge of their own destiny, she said. The row with a major party donor comes as Sir Keir also faces questions over donations received from British businessman Dale Vince, who is also a key backer of climate activist group Just Stop Oil. Mr Vince, the founder of green energy firm Ecotricity, has given around 1.5 million to Labour over the past decade, according to filings to the Electoral Commission. Tory MPs have attacked Labour over the donations and called on the party to hand the money back. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Entertainer Paul OGrady could be posthumously given the freedom of Wirral as part of plans to pay tribute to his legacy. Councillors will vote next week on whether to award the honorary freedom of the borough to the TV presenter, who was born in Birkenhead, Wirral, and died in March at the age of 67. OGrady grew up in Merseyside but later moved to London, where he found fame as his drag alter-ego Lily Savage and went on to host a string of television programmes. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/1663844895512035328 In a statement, Wirral Council said: Since the sad passing of Birkenheads legendary entertainer Paul OGrady in March, weve heard the many asks for us to celebrate his legacy and we agree. The first step in doing so will see councillors consider a recommendation to bestow the star who first found fame as the self-proclaimed blonde bombsite Lily Savage with the honour of freedom of the borough. This would recognise his years entertaining the nation, along with his dedicated activism and charity work. We are also looking at other ways to pay tribute to the legacy of both Paul and Lily more details will be shared as soon as we have them. Councillors will discuss the award at a regulatory and general purposes committee on Wednesday, June 7. The agenda item for the meeting states: This is a very significant step for the council to take. Very few people have been awarded this status and, it should only be awarded to someone who has made an exceptional contribution to the borough. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The government looks set for unprecedented legal battle with officials in charge of the Covid public inquiry over the release of unredacted WhatsApp messages and diaries belonging to Boris Johnson. In a showdown over the ex-PMs communications with 40 top officials, the Cabinet Office has until 4pm on Thursday to respond to the demand from Lady Halletts public inquiry into the Covid crisis. The deadline has been extended from Tuesday, after officials claimed they do have all the documents demanded. The inquiry was told the Cabinet Office does not have in its possession either Mr Johnsons WhatsApp messages or Mr Johnsons notebooks. Delayed deadline aisde, there is little sign that Rishi Sunaks government is willing to shift from its position that the department has no duty to disclose unambiguously irrelevant material. Reports indicate that the government is unlikely to back down and hand over Mr Johnsons material worried about privacy issues and the precedent it would set for future ministers trying to discuss policy in confidence. So what happens if the Sunak government refuses to comply? Could government officials be liable to criminal proceedings? Could Mr Sunak and his ministers themselves be in serious trouble? Lady Hallett, insisting all the communications were of potential relevance to the inquiry, has threatened legal action against the government warning of criminal sanctions. The inquirys chairwoman said her request was made under section 21 of the Inquiries Act 2005 pointing out that failure to comply could be a criminal offence and punishable with a fine of up to 1,000 or even imprisonment for a maximum of 51 weeks. But the Cabinet Offices lawyers are thought to have advised officials that the inquiry does not have the power to demand all material with the Sunak government reportedly considering launching its own judicial review. WhatsApp messages belonging to Boris Johnson have been requested (PA Wire) So while the government is expected to at least reply to Lady Hallett by 4pm, it seems the dispute is destined to end up in court. What happens if a judge rules in favour of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry? It not clear who might be liable for criminal proceedings if the government continue to refused to comply with a court order. However, it appears unthinkable that the Sunak government would refuse to hand over material if it was lose a court case, with a Cabinet Office spokesperson insisting the department will hand over information in line with the law. It comes just weeks before the first public inquiry evidence sessions are expected to be held. It isnt clear whether it could delay proceedings or whether the chairwoman could get hearings under way while still battling the government in court. It is also unclear whether the Cabinet Office will now ask Mr Johnson to hand over his WhatsApp messages and notebooks. Lady Hallett rejected the request for an extension of time to 5 June 2023, but granted a short extension to 4pm on Thursday. Boris Johnson said to furious at Sunak government over material handed to police (PA Archive) Mr Johnson has insisted he does not object to disclosing his evidence to the Covid inquiry. The decision to challenge the inquirys position on redactions is for the Cabinet Office, said his spokesman. Whats the worst-case scenario for Mr Johnson? The PM is already under serious pressure over his actions during the Covid crisis battling to save his political career on several fronts. The inquiry wants to see his conversations with host of top figures. The list includes Englands chief medical officer Professor Sir Chris Whitty, then-chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance, then-health secretary Matt, ex-strategist Dominic Cummings and then-chancellor Mr Sunak. Lady Hallett has also asked for copies of the 24 notebooks containing contemporaneous notes made by the former prime minister in clean unredacted form. Mr Johnson will be worried the material could prove highly embarrassing. The ex-Tory leader could scrape through the verdict of MPs investigating whether he lied to parliament over Partygate expected within weeks only to find himself on the defensive once again. While two police forces are still examining material on potentially rule-breaking events at Chequers and No 10, there is the possibility that the former PM could face a lengthy new police probe while having to face awkward public inquiry questions over his messages at the peak of the pandemic. Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak set for clear-the-air meeting (PA Wire) Mr Sunak was intially understood to be willing to hold a clear-the-air meeting with Mr Johnson later this week, with the former PM understood to be furious at the Cabinet Office for referring summaries of his diary entries on to the police. But a meeting is not scheduled to go ahead as it stands. As reported by the Sunday Times, junior minister Jeremy Quin, the Paymaster General, is understood to have approved the handing over of the same documents to the privileges committee investigating whether Mr Johnson lied to parliament. So will the government win its argument with the inquiry over the need for confidentiality? Former head of the civil service Lord Kerslake backed Lady Hallett and said there was a cover-up going on here to save embarrassment of ministers. On the Cabinet Office fighting for a principle of confidentiality, he told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I have to say I think theyre misguided on this situation. I actually think it would set a helpful precedent if Lady Hallett prevailed in this fight about the information. Recommended Millions in Tory donations at risk as property developers hit back Liberal Democrat health spokesperson Daisy Cooper said that it looks like Rishi Sunak is too worried about upsetting Boris Johnson and his allies to do the right thing. Mr Sunak claimed government was acting in a spirit of transparency and candour. He told reporters on Tuesday: With regard to the specific question at the moment, the government is carefully considering its position but it is confident in the approach that its taking. A Cabinet Office spokesman said: We are fully committed to our obligations to the Covid-19 inquiry ... We will continue to provide all relevant material to the inquiry, in line with the law, ahead of proceedings getting under way. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Sir Keir Starmer has declared Britains future is outside the EU, confirming Labour will not seek to rejoin the bloc if it wins power. The Labour leader accepted it is no great secret he voted Remain in the 2016 referendum. But Sir Keir said he agreed with Leave supporters who wanted a better health service, better jobs, better wages, more security, a sense of control over their lives and their communities. And, in a pitch aimed at Brexiteers disgruntled with the high tax burden, record-high immigration, the state of the NHS and out of control crime, Sir Keir set out plans to make Brexit work. If we are to make Brexit work, we need a government with the vision and the focus to deliver it, he added. Sir Keirs promise comes as regret among Leave voters sits at a record high, with more voters than ever believing Brexit has been a failure. A recent YouGov poll found just a fifth of Brexiteers think Brexit has been a success, while a third who believe the opposite. And, ruling out any move to rejoin the EU, Sir Keir risks disappointing Labour voters, 86 per cent of whom say the UK was wrong to leave in the first place. Former Brexit party leader Nigel Farage also recently declared that Brexit had failed . Every one of the problems I have outlined can be fixed from outside the EU, Sir Keir said (Getty Images) Writing in the Daily Express, the former director of public prosecutions promised to spell out Labours Brexit policy simply. Britains future is outside the EU. But the paper-thin Tory deal has stifled Britains potential and hugely weighted trade terms towards the EU, he said. Sir Keir added: More than anything, British businesses and households need stability and certainty. They need us to use our sovereignty to benefit them, not as a tool to manage the Tory Party. He highlighted recent warnings from the car industry that their future is under threat, claiming Britain could become a world leader in electric car manufacturing. The Labour leader also said scientists and researchers face an uncertain future not knowing whether they will be able to access the Horizon EU funding programme. And he said the failure of the Tories Brexit deal had driven up food prices, which he called unforgivable during the cost of living crisis. We need to act now, Sir Keir said. There is a deal to be done that makes good on the British peoples desire to maintain our high food and animal welfare standards and prevent the burden of bureaucratic red tape. It could save our importers hundreds of millions of pounds a year. He said Labour would work with European neighbours to bring down the price of food and tackle gangs smuggling migrants across the channel. There is huge potential for change. Thats why we should be optimistic, he said. Sir Keir added: Every one of the problems I have outlined can be fixed from outside the EU. But it will require hard work, good relations and - above all - honesty. Pretending everything is going fine, or ducking hard conversations, will see Britain miss opportunities and slip behind our competitors. And he called on prime minister Rishi Sunak to face up to the truth that his party has got Brexit wrong. Failure to do the hard yards needed to right those wrongs will mean the Tories fail to deliver for Britain and fail to deliver on the promise of Brexit, he said. Labour is danger of losing votes for being too pro-Brexit, new polling suggests as Keir Starmer faces growing calls from within his party to shift its EU policy. New polling seen by The Independent shows that Tory voters would be significantly more likely to back Labour if the opposition committed to reversing the hardest parts of the governments Brexit settlement. Senior pollsters say Labour could start shedding votes to the Lib Dems or Greens if it is seen as insufficiently pro-European. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Rishi Sunaks government has been warned it faces an embarrassing loss if goes up against the Covid-19 inquiry in court over Boris Johnsons WhatsApp messages. It came as calls grew for the material to be handed over by Thursdays 4pm deadline, as the government continued to signal it would resist the demand from inquiry chair Baroness Hallett. Mr Johnsons team is said to be preparing to hand over WhatsApps and notebooks directly to the inquiry if the chairwoman comes to him for the evidence. Sir Jonathan Jones, the governments former legal chief, told The Independent that the cards are stacked against the Sunak government if the increasingly bizarre dispute goes to court. Its a mess, said the senior KC. Its likely the court will have to rule on it it doesnt seem either side is minded to back down. Im not aware of any precedent for the government refusing to give information to a public inquiry it set up. Its all pretty extraordinary. He added: The powers of a public inquiry are wide. There is logic to the position the Covid inquiry is taking that it has to see the material to decide on its relevance. The cards are stacked in favour of the inquiry. The bar for getting a court to strike down a request is high. Former Supreme Court justice Lord Sumption also said attempts to withhold the messages were likely to fail saying he did not think the Cabinet Offices arguments would cut much ice in the courts. Lord Sumption said that under the law the ultimate judge of whether the material ought to be disclosed was the inquiry chair. I frankly cant see the courts quashing her decision, he told the BBCs World At One. Arguing that going to court would be a political mistake, he added: They are not going to succeed in a judicial review so that all they will achieve in resisting is to make it look like they are hiding something. Former prime minister Boris Johnson is still causing problems for Rishi Sunak (AP) Sir Jonathan said that if the Sunak government refused to hand over the Johnson material by the deadline, the Covid-19 inquiry has two options. Baroness Halletts team could either go to the High Court to seek an order from a judge or launch a criminal lawsuit by arguing the governments refusal to provide information violates the Inquiries Act 2005. In her recent exchange of letters with the Cabinet Office, the chairwoman pointed out that failure to comply could be a criminal offence and punishable with a fine of up to 1,000 or even imprisonment for a maximum of 51 weeks. Presumably [the Covid-19 inquiry] would try to hold some senior figure in the Cabinet Office responsible, said Sir Jonathan on the possibility of criminal proceedings, before describing the scenario as extraordinary and the least likely outcome. The ex-Treasury solicitior said it was quite likely the government will seek a judicial review before Thursday at 4pm to test the validity of Baroness Halletts request. Urging a rethink, Sir Jonathan said: It would be quite a climbdown for the government to say it will provide information, but I think it should consider doing so to avoid extreme scenarios. Former PM said to be furious with Sunak government over recent referral to police (Getty) The row risked descending into farce when Mr Johnson said he was happy for his messages to be given to the Covid inquiry only for the government to say it did not have the unredacted messages any longer. An ally of Mr Johnson told The Independent he was happy to provide with the Covid inquiry with the material it wants, but was currently being blocked by the Sunak government. The PMs team has told Politico that he would be prepared to hand over requested messages and notebooks if asked directly by the inquiry, and was readying the material via his new solicitors. But No 10 has said that while there is nothing to stop Mr Johnson handing any personal evidence directly to the inquiry, any government-owned material would need to be disclosed by the government. The Covid inquiry would not be drawn on whether it could ask and accept material directly from Mr Johnson, if Thursdays deadline passes without a climbdown from the Cabinet Office. A source said the inquiry would cross that bridge if it comes to it. Former Tory cabinet minister Malcolm Rifkind told The Independent Mr Johnson should be allowed to hand over his WhatsApps messages. If hes willing to that he should be able to do so. Its his WhatsApp messages not theirs [the Cabinet Office]. Expected meeting between Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak this week was scrapped (PA Archive) Mr Rifkind also said a compromise could still be reached suggesting that the government and Lady Hallett agree on a independent broker to look over the messages and decide what should be redacted. With the deadline looming and Mr Sunak facing accusations of a cover up, work and pensions secretary Mel Stride insisted that the government had nothing to hide. Mr Stride told Sky News claiming the inquiry already has all the information that it is right for it to have. However, senior Tory MP Caroline Nokes said the reluctance by the government to provide the WhatsApps and notebooks seems a nonsense. She told Talk TV that it would be less pain for the government if they hand [the material] over quickly. Senior Tory William Wragg, chair of the public administration and constitutional affairs committee, also urged the government to back down. If the inquiry requests documents and info then whoever it has asked should comply, he told the BBC. Labours shadow health secretary Wes Streeting has said Mr Sunak looks really slippery over the refusal to hand over requested files. One minute the government says the messages they have are immaterial; the next minute theyre saying they dont exist. Which is it? Historian Sir Anthony Seldon, who has chronicled Mr Johnsons time in No 10, said it was a simple no-brainer for the messages to be handed over. This event was so seismic and the premiership of Boris Johnson was so catastrophic, we have to get out the full facts, he told TalkTV. Meanwhile, a Johnson ally told The Independent the ex-PM should sue the Cabinet Office for the recent referral to the police over possible fresh Covid rule breaches at Chequers at No 10. If I was Boris I would go legal and flush out any cover ups, they said. I think the plotters have overplayed their hand in trying to destroy Boris and their actions are beginning to unravel. The Independent has approached the Cabinet Office and Mr Johnsons office for comment. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Senior Tory Nadine Dorries has said that the toxic and stale ITV programme This Morning should be axed following the Phillip Schofield scandal. The former culture secretary waded in on the furore surrounding former host who quit the show after admitting to an unwise but not illegal affair with a younger male colleague. Ms Dorries questioned the entire culture at This Morning and said ITV viewers had been lied to over the affair, adding: I dont think it should survive. She told Talk TV: I think [the story] is not going away, and I just dont think it can survive in its present format. I think it was the original editor of the show who said it really just needs to go now. Ms Dorries added: There is so much that is questionable about the entire culture within This Mornings programme. Can it survive? I dont know, I dont have a crystal ball but I dont think it should survive. I think it needs to be taken over by a safe pair of hands that the public know that they can trust, because theyve been lied to, theres been duplicity and almost a cover up. The ex-cabinet minister said she had spoken to people who worked on the programme over a number of years and said it had harboured a toxic culture. A culture grows, it becomes toxic and it is protected by those who are aware of the culture, until something gives, and its usually a whistleblower or something happens to kind of blow the lid off and that whats happened on This Morning, said the Tory MP. Ms Dorries said she found co-host Holly Willoughby an absolute delight. But on Sunday the MP said she had some questions to answer about the recent saga. She also told BBCs Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg: I just found [Mr Schofield] to be quite bullying in his attitude towards the co-host who was standing in for Holly Willoughby. And that made me feel more uncomfortable than answering the questions. Former culture secretary Nadine Dorries has weighed in on row (PA Archive) Mr Schofield has been dropped by his talent agency YMU and axed as an ambassador for the Princes Trust after admitting to lying to colleagues about his affair, with the royal charity saying it is no longer appropriate to work with him. ITV executives are expected to appear before MPs on the culture, media and sport committee next week, where the issue of Mr Schofield looks set to be raised. The session is expected to focus on scrutiny of the forthcoming Media Bill, with SNP MP John Nicolson a committee member writing on Twitter: The issues erupting around ITV have been a cause for concern. I look forward to getting some answers from ITV bosses. An ITV spokesperson said it had investigated rumours of a relationship between Mr Schofield and an employee in early 2020. Both parties were questioned and both categorically and repeatedly denied the rumours, as did Phillips then agency YMU. The spokesperson added: Phillips statement yesterday reveals that he lied to people at ITV, from senior management to fellow presenters, to YMU, to the media and to others over this relationship. In an Instagram post earlier on Monday, Mr Schofield hit back at his critics, saying there was no toxicity on This Morning. Former presenter Eamonn Holmes said Ms Willoughby should follow Schofield out the door of the show. The co-host is due to return to the show on Monday after the half-term break, having taken an early holiday after news of Mr Schofields departure emerged. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} An adventurer has landed on a remote uninhabited North Atlantic rock in a bid to break the world record for the longest stay there and raise funds for armed forces charities. Chris Cam Cameron and radio operators Nobby Styles and Emil Bergmann have arrived on Rockall and are safe and well on the rock, the expedition team confirmed on Wednesday. The team plan to spend a week broadcasting radio transmissions from Rockall before the two radio operators head home. Mr Cameron, an army veteran who served for six years with the Gordon Highlanders, plans to stay on and spend 60 days in total on the rock in an attempt to break the current record of 45 days. The expedition aims to raise 50,000 for The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and ABF The Soldiers Charity. The team began broadcasting from the rock on Wednesday. A social media post from their support team said: Latest update (31/05/23) is the team are safe and well on the rock it was a bit rough getting on to it but all now safe and secure. It added: Thank you to every single donor so far, no matter the size. Every penny will help make a big difference to 2 amazing charities ABF The Soldiers Charity, and the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity. We still have a long way to go, and Cam has *alot* of nights on the Rock yet but Phase 1 the arrival is complete! The 45-day record was set by Nick Hancock in June and July 2014. We'll do the tough part - if you could make a donation to the charities, we'll keep going for as long as we can Chris Cameron Situated around 220 miles (354 km) west of the Outer Hebrides, Rockall is an isolated granite islet that the UK has claimed sovereignty over since 1955. It stands about 70 feet (21 metres) above sea level and is around 100 yards (91 metres) in circumference. Mr Cameron, a husband and father of two, grew up in Buckie in Moray, trained as a marine biologist and oceanographer in Aberdeen and also holds a PGCE teaching certificate. Now based in Wiltshire, he works as a senior trainer for Babcock International Group, providing specialist training to military personnel within the UK. Mr Styles is from Kent and Mr Bergmann was born in Bulgaria and now lives in Germany. On the expeditions JustGiving page, Mr Cameron says: My team and I intend to radio broadcast from Rockall, the remotest, loneliest and most desolate place in the British Isles. After listing the charities he is fundraising for, he added: Any donations received will be split between these amazing charities, helping our serving personnel, families and our veterans. Well do the tough part if you could make a donation to the charities, well keep going for as long as we can. Anyone wishing to donate can do so at https://www.justgiving.com/page/rockallexped For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Smoke from a wildfire that has led to two firefighters being injured and burnt more than three square miles can be seen from space. The fire at Cannich, in the hills above Loch Ness in the Highlands, is now in its fourth day with four fire engines and specialist resources remaining on scene. Satellite images from Nasa show the plume of smoke from the blaze drifting towards the loch on Monday amid clear skies. Helicopters are being used to waterbomb the area and members of the public have been warned not to walk their dogs there as a safety precaution. The two firefighters injured in an accident in their all-terrain vehicle have now been released from hospital after being airlifted from the scene on Tuesday morning. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said an investigation is ongoing into the incident. The service was alerted to the current fire at 12.46pm on Sunday and at its height a helicopter was used to waterbomb the area and nine appliances were sent to the scene. It now covers an area of around 3.08 square miles. Firefighters have attended fires in the same area on four separate occasions since May 23. Meanwhile, the service has extended a wildlife warning across much of Scotland until Monday. The warning has been in place since May 26, and grades the risk of wildfires as very high in most of east, central, and southern Scotland. SFRS group commander Niall MacLennan said: As the warm and dry weather continues, so too does the risk of wildfire. The ongoing incident at Cannich shows just how large these fires can become. A mixture of seasonal weather conditions combined with very dry and dead vegetation means there is a heightened risk of fires, which can be started by the careless disposal of cigarettes as well as barbecues or campfires left unattended. Many of our rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by these incidents, which can cause significant environmental and economic damage. Cannich has been a challenging incident and our crews are working tirelessly to tackle the fire and stop further spread. Extinguishing a fire on this scale requires a large amount of resources, including the use of helicopters to bolster our response. We will remain on scene until we make the area safe. Ross Ewing, Scottish Land & Estates director of moorland, said: Our thoughts are with the firefighters who have been injured tackling the wildfire in the area around Cannich. Nearly 3,000 hectares of land have already been burned in this fire and it follows on from the huge wildfire near Glenuig in April, which was estimated to be the second largest ever recorded in the UK. Wildfires have a devastating impact on wildlife and habitats, generating catastrophic carbon emissions. They are becoming increasingly frequent in Scotland, partly due to climate change and partly due to a lack of fuel load management in some areas. This wildfire demonstrates how important it is to utilise all the tools at our disposal to manage the fuel load of vegetation, which has been shown to increase wildfire risk. We hope the situation at Cannich will soon be contained so that the scale and extent of damage can be assessed. We urging anyone going out into the countryside to take care and follow guidance in relation to campfire cooking and when the ground is so dry its recommended not to use either a campfire or a camping stove. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The face of one the most prominent pharaohs of ancient Egypt, King Tutankhamun, has been reconstructed after 3,300 years. The scientists who conducted the study have likened him to more of a young student than a politician. Co-authored by Francesco Galassi, Elena Varotto, Thiago Beaini, Cicero Moraes and Michael Habicht, the findings are being published in the Italian Journal of Anatomy and Embryology. During his lifetime, Tutankhamun was worshipped as a deity, ascending to the throne at the age of nine. He was around 19 when he died and is famous for the opulent wealth uncovered inside his tomb, KV62. Facial reconstruction of Tutankhamun by Cicero Moraes (Cicero Moraes) During his lifetime, Tutankhamun was worshipped as a deity (Cicero Moraes) To date, his tomb is the only one to have been found completely intact, with its discovery considered one of the most prominent archaeological finds in history. Looking at him, we see more of a young student than a politician full of responsibilities, which makes the historical figure even more interesting, Cicero Moraes told MailOnline. Faced with the studies we have developed with data from living people, comparing projections with actual measurements, we are confident that there is good compatibility with the real face, Mr Moraes added, adding that he has finished the study as a true fan of this impressive culture. Likewise, Michael Habicht, Egyptologist and archaeologist at Australias Flinders University, added that the new reconstruction was amazingly close to one made by a French team a few years prior. It also corresponds with the ancient depictions of Tutankhamun, especially with the head on the lotus flower from his tomb treasure, Mr Habicht noted. Numerous facial reconstructions have taken place over the years, with the first attempted in 1983 by forensic artist Betty Pat Gatliff, who created a mould using a plaster skull constructed from radiographs. The approximations of Tutankhamuns face were later published in Life magazine. In 2022, new evidence suggested that the archaeologist who discovered Tutankhamuns tomb may have stolen treasure from the pharaohs tomb. Whilst on a digging expedition in the Valley of the Kings in November 1922, Howard Carter found the tomb, writing in his diary that the chamber was inundated with a wonderful medley of extraordinary and beautiful objects heaped upon one another. A replica of the death mask of King Tutankhamun at the Museum of Museums in Manchester (PA) In August last year, a previously unpublished letter noted that Mr Carter had shown Sir Alan Gardiner, a scholar on the same excavation team, a whm amulet used for offerings to the dead. Mr Carter assured his colleague that it was not from the tomb, The Guardian reported. However, Sir Gardiner was later informed by the British director of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo that the whm amulet matched those found in Tutankhamuns tomb, and thus had likely been stolen. The letters were later published via Oxford University Press in Tutankhamun and the Tomb that Changed the World. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The 11-year-old boy who was shot by police in Mississippi after calling 911 to help his mother has revealed that he has haunting visions of both the officer responsible and of himself lying dead in a coffin. Aderrien Murry is back home recovering after he was shot in the chest by a police officer who had responded to a disturbance call at the home that he shares with his mother Nakala Murry in Indianola, Mississippi. In an interview with CNN, he spoke out about the lasting trauma of the incident as his family brought a $5m lawsuit for excessive force, negligence, reckless endangerment and civil assault and battery. Sometimes, I can see myself laying inside the coffin. Those are my thoughts at night, my only ones, he said. Sometimes I think people are watching me. But my main thought is me dead, inside the coffin. The young boy said he also has visions where he can see Indianola Police Officer Greg Capers the man who pulled the trigger on him that day standing inside corners of dark rooms, just staring at me. I could have lost my life. All because of you, he said in a message to the officer calling for his firing. I want you terminated for what you did to me. It was around 4am on 20 May when the father of one of Ms Murrys other children showed up at the home irate. When the commotion woke Aderrien, the 11-year-old called 911 to get help. He told CNN he told the dispatcher that no one was armed inside the home. When officers arrived on the scene, they shouted for everyone to come out with their hands up. Aderrien Murry is back home recovering after he was shot (family) Aderrien said he did everything he was told to do and was shot by Officer Capers. I just tried to follow the police commands but I guess that didnt work, he said. As he lay there believing he was about to die, the 11-year-old boy recalled praying and singing No Weapon Formed Against Me Shall Prosper. He also asked his mother who was desperately trying to stop the bleeding to tell his family and his teacher he was sorry for what he did. Aderrien was rushed to hospital and placed placed on a ventilator for a collapsed lung, fractured ribs, and a lacerated liver, before being discharged on 24 May. The young boy has put his recovery down to the grace of God but said he still has difficulties breathing and moving from the incident. Officer Capers has been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation into the shooting. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} An 11-month-old baby girl died after her parents left her inside a hot car as they went to church in Florida. Police say that they were called to the Mount of Olives Evangelical Baptist Church in Palm Bay to reports of an unresponsive baby at around 1pm on Sunday. The baby had been left in the vehicle for around three hours while her parents attended the service, according to authorities. She was transported to Palm Bay Community Hospital where she was pronounced dead. This is an unfortunate incident, and our condolences and prayers go out to the family, said Palm Bay Police Chief Mario Augello. An investigation is ongoing and police have not said if any charges will be brought against the parents, who have not been named. According to KidsAndCars.org, Florida is second in the nation for child hot car deaths. Last year there were 36 deaths of children in hot cars in the US, and there have been six so far in 2023, according to the organisations data. The most important thing for people to know is that it can happen to absolutely anyone. Theres no norm to it, said Jeanne Fennell, the president and founder of KidsAndCars.org. Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Ashli Babbitts mother was arrested on Tuesday after allegedly assaulting a counter-protester at a right-wing event outside a Washington DC jail. Micki Witthoeft, 58, was taken into custody surrounded by officers who handcuffed her before taking her into a waiting police van, The Daily Beast reported. She was arrested and charged with simple assault and destruction of property, Hugh Carew, a DC Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson told the publication. Ashli Babbitt was the 35-year-old woman killed on 6 January 2021 while trying to disrupt a joint meeting of the Congress. In videos recorded from the incident, Ms Witthoeft could be seen racing after a counter-protester holding a camera. The counter-protester was seen blaring a loud siren sound from her megaphone, in an apparent effort to annoy the people gathered outside the prison in support of imprisoned 6 January defendants. As the woman raised her middle finger, Ms Witthoeft allegedly pushed her before pushing her off the sidewalk. She then continued to follow her. While waving the American flag, Ms Witthoeft sped up to the woman, snatched her megaphone and smashed it on the ground. It was not clear what preceded the incident. Mr Carew said Ms Witthoeft was arrested in the 1800 block of E Street SE, near the DC jail. Following Ms Witthoeft's arrest, the group of right-wing protesters reportedly gathered around the police vehicle, chanting: "Ashli Babbitt! Ashli Babbit!" Arrested for defending Ashli Babbit's honour, a right-wing protester yelled, according to The Daily Beast. Ms Witthoeft was released just hours after her arrest and she returned to the protest area outside of the jail. I did klonk my head getting in the paddy wagon, she told supporters. The MPD department on M St has a serious rat problem. It really wasn't that bad, she said, explaining the booking process. Ms Witthoeft was previously arrested in January this year in Washington DC while protesting on the second anniversary of the Capitol attack. She was arrested when a group of protesters who did not have a permit to demonstrate on the Capitol grounds attempted to cross a street and enter the venue. "The officers and officials told the group to get out of the road or the group would be arrested. The sidewalk was open. A woman in the group was given multiple warnings to get our of the road," the Capitol police said. "Instead of getting out of the road, the woman refused to leave, turned around with her hands behind her back, and asked to be arrested." Prosecutors later dropped the charges against her. Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Florida Governor Ron DeSantis faced criticism on Tuesday for failing to issue a statement about the mass shooting in Hollywood, Florida that left nine people, including four children, injured. Mr DeSantis, who announced his campaign for US president last week, made no mention of the victims or event on his social media nearly a day after the shooting. Five adults and four children, including a one-year-old, suffered gunshot wounds after two groups of people engaged in gunfire at the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk on Monday. The shooting is one of over 260 to occur in the US so far this year. It comes just one month after Mr DeSantis signed legislation that will loosen restrictions on concealed carry on 1 July. The Independent has reached out to Mr DeSantis for comment. Florida Senator, and former governor, Rick Scott tweeted that he was heartbroken and angry to see this senseless violence and indicated he would monitor the situation. Representatives Maxwell Frost, Lois Frankel, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick and Frederica Wilson all acknowledged the shooting on their social media pages. California Governor Gavin Newsom called out Mr DeSantis on Twitter for passing the legislation and contributing to this kind of senseless violence. Until our leaders have the courage to stop bowing down to the NRA and enact common-sense gun safety this kind of senseless violence will continue, Mr Newsom wrote. Mr DeSantis press secretary Jeremy Redfern replied to Mr Newsom Hi Gavin, How does a law that doesnt take effect until July 1st change this outcome? Besides Mr Redferns response to Mr Newsoms tweet, Mr DeSantis office had not issued a statement about the shooting leading to some criticsm on Twitter. 9 people were shot in Hollywood, Florida and it sure as hell wasnt by Drag Queens, one Twitter user said. A Twitter user named David tweeted: I kind of appreciate Ron DeSantis not even bothering to offer thoughts and prayers to victims of the mass shooting in Hollywood Beach last night. He doesnt care. Its more honest. So is Governor DeSantis going to pretend that a mass shooting didnt happen in his state so that he can have his rally in Iowa? Has he even made a public statement about the shooting yet? Another Twitter user wrote. One Twitter user asked: Does Ron DeSantis even offer thoughts and prayers when his state has another mass shooting or is it just another Monday in Florida? Six of the nine shooting victims remained in the hospital on Tuesday, while three had been treated and discharged. Hollywood Police said they arrested two people but were still looking for three persons of interest connected to the shooting. Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} At least nine people, including a one-year-old, were injured in a shooting that took place on Memorial Day at a boardwalk in Hollywood, Florida. Gunfire broke out before 7pm local time along the Hollywood Oceanfront Broadwalk between Johnson Street and Garfield Street on Monday (29 May). The shooting seemed to be a result of a dispute between two different groups, according to Hollywood Police Department public information manager Deanna Bettineschi. Videos from the incident on Monday (29 May) evening showed crowds of people running for cover as gunfire occurred. Police swiftly responded to the incident and began treating those who had suffered gunshot wounds. The victims include four children between the ages of one and 17 years old, as well as five adults between 25 and 65 years old. As of Monday evening, one victim was in surgery while eight others were stable. The Hollywood Police have arrested two people while searching for three additional suspects. Heres everything we know so far. How the shooting unfolded Gunfire suddenly erupted just before 7pm on Memorial Day (29 May) as individuals and families walked along the Hollywood Oceanfront Broadwalk near Johnson Street and North Broadwalk. The boardwalk, which is lined with shops and eateries, is a popular tourist destination as it is approximately 20 miles north of Miami. However, it was expected to be even busier due to the holiday weekend. The shooting occurred after two groups began having a dispute, according to Ms Bettineschi, the public information manager for the Hollywood Police. One witness, Jamie Ward, told the Associated Press that several young men were fighting in front of one of the stores when one pulled out a gun. Security camera footage from the boardwalk showed people frantically running and taking cover near a convenience store, a Ben & Jerrys and a Subway shop as the gunfire began. Another witness, Alvie Carlton Scott III, told the AP he was on the beach when he heard gunshots. Mr Scott said he hid behind a tree and then fled the area after a police officer told people to run. The mayor of Hollywood, Josh Levy, said in a statement that he was deeply saddened and angered by the shooting. People come to enjoy a holiday weekend on the beach with their families and to have people in complete reckless disregard of the safety of the public and to have an altercation with guns in a public setting with thousands of people around them is beyond reckless, Mr Levy said in a press conference. Footage posted to social media from witnesses showed law enforcement, first responders and good samaritans attending to victims of the shooting. The victims Police said nine people, including four children, suffered gunshot wounds. The victims were taken to Memorial Regional Hospital and Joe DiMaggio Childrens Hospital to be treated for their injuries. The names of the victims have not yet been released, though preliminary information indicated that the victims included a one-year-old child, three people under the age of 17, and five people between 25 and 65 years old. However, Yanet Obarrio Sanchez, a spokesperson for Memorial Healthcare System told USA Today that the hospital was tending to six adults and three children, it is unclear if the hospital was treating the 17-year-old victim as an adult. As of Tuesday afternoon, three of the nine victims were treated and discharged from the hospital. The six others remain in stable condition. The suspects The FBI and Hollywood Police Department are currently looking for three suspects of interest in connection to the shooting. Police have released photos of the people they are searching for. Police are seraching for three persons of interest (Hollywood Police Department/CBS Miami) Following the shooting, several people were detained and two people, Morgan Deslouches and Keshawn Stewart, were arrested on firearm-related charges. According to police, five firearms were recovered two of which were stolen from Texas and Miami. Mr Deslouches, 18, is charged with grand theft of a firearm, carrying a concealed firearm and removing serial numbers from a firearm. Mr Stewart, 18, is charged with carrying a concealed firearm. Ms Bettineschi said anyone with videos or photos from the incident should send them to hollywoodpdtips@hollywoodfl.org. Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Audio recordings of the phone calls panicked beachgoers made to 911 during the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk shooting in Florida have been released. On Tuesday, the Hollywood Police Department released the recordings which give some insight into the chaotic frenzy people walking along the boardwalk experienced when gunfire began. Oh my gosh, I dont know whats going on, one woman says in a panicked voice to dispatchers. The shooting began just before 7pm local time on Monday (29 May) on the busy Hollywood, Florida boardwalk. In another call, a man frantically asks police to Come to Hollywood Beach! The Margaritaville, please, on the beach. He added, Theyre shooting out here. Videos taken from the live camera feed of the boardwalk showed people running for their lives and hiding behind objects as they try to avoid stray bullets. Another man told a 911 dispatcher, Two people got hit. A lady and another lady got hit. Nine people were injured in the crossfire of the shooting four children ranging from one year old to 17 years old and five adults between 25 and 65. Due to the holiday weekend, police had stationed more law enforcement officers than usual on the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk. Good samaritans, first responders and nearby law enforcement were able to tend to victims injuries as they awaited emergency services to bring them to the hospital. As of Tuesday evening, six people were in stable condition in the hospital while three others had been discharged. 911 calls capture chaos of Hollywood Beach mass shooting in Florida Josh Levy, the mayor of Hollywood, sent thoughts, prayers and the hope of a speedy recovery to victims in a statement. He added that the shooting was completely unacceptable and condemned the shooters for coming into the city, with guns and no regard for the safety of the law-abiding public around them. Police said the shooting began after two groups of people got into a dispute that escalated. Authorities detained multiple people and arrested two 18-year-old men on firearm-related charges. However, the two are not suspected to be the shooters responsible for the mass shooting. Hollywood Police Department and FBI are still searching for three suspects and asking the public to come forward with any information that may be helpful to the investigation. Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A Pennsylvania bus driver has been arrested for allegedly duct-taping a 10-year-old child to a bus seat. Fifty-four-year-old Juliet Pratt is facing charges of unlawful restraint, false imprisonment, endangering the welfare of a child and assault. Officers with the Upper Darby Police Department were to Hillcrest Elementary School in Drexel Hill after receiving reports that a boy had been assaulted, NBC reports. The incident was caught in surveillance video that showed Ms Pratt allegedly using duct tape to restrain the child, around his ankles and chest. The minor, who was already using his safety harness, did not move from the seat or attempt to free himself. After arriving at the school, Ms Pratt reportedly used a belt cutter to tear the tape. Ms Pratts attorney Arthur Donato told The Philadephia Inquirer that she had admitted to duct-taping the child to the seat on a previous occasion to prevent him from kicking other children on the bus. In retrospect, there might have been a better way to handle it, but not every time someone makes an error is it a crime, Mr Donato told the outlet. These charges require her having an intent to hurt the child, and all she was trying to do was keep order on the bus. Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer condemned the way Ms Pratt allegedly restrained the child, noting that in the event of an accident, the boy wouldnt have been able to free himself. Juliet Pratt is facing charges of unlawful restraint and false imprisonment (UPPD) Bus drivers are entrusted with enormous responsibility every time they get behind the wheel. In addition to being safe drivers, we also expect them to treat the children in their care with dignity and respect, Mr Stollsteimer said in a statement. Using duct tape on a child who was already fully restrained in the vehicles harness was not only inexcusable, it was also dangerous ... There is simply no excuse for this conduct, which is why these charges have been filed. The school district also addressed the incident in a statement to ABC, noting Ms Pratt is no longer working as a bus driver at the school. We are aware of the incident involving a school bus driver and a student, a spokesperson for the district said. We are cooperating with the local authorities in the investigation of this incident. This is a personnel matter; the individual is no longer driving buses at this time. Ms Pratt was released on a $25,000 bond. She is expected back in court next month. Close Attorney Scott W. Brady comments following Pittsburgh synagogue shooter Robert Bowers' court appearance Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The gunman accused of murdering 11 in a mass shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in 2018 is now on trial in a federal courtroom in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. On 27 October 2018, Robert Bowers, then 46, entered the synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of the city armed with three handguns, an AR-15 rifle and a trove of magazines and ammunition. Inside, he opened fire on congregants in what marks the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history. Eight men and three women aged from 54 to 97 died in the massacre. After numerous delays, the now-50-year-old is finally standing trial for more than 60 federal charges including obstruction of free exercise of religion resulting in death and hate crimes resulting in death. During opening arguments on Tuesday, Mr Bowers attorneys admitted that he was responsible for the massacre but claimed that he acted on an irrational motive and had misguided intent. Prosecutors meanwhile pointed out that, in the months leading up the shooting, the suspect had been spewing bigoted and antisemitic vitriol online. If convicted, he could face the death penalty. Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The trial of Robert Bowers, the man charged with perpetrating the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history at the Tree of Life synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood of Pittsburgh in 2018, began with opening statements on Tuesday. Mr Bowers, who is charged with 63 criminal counts, could face the death penalty if convicted. Here is a rundown of what we know about him and the crimes he is charged with committing. Who is Robert Bowers? Mr Bowers, born in 1972, was 46 years old at the time of the shooting. He had, by multiple accounts, a challenging childhood. His parents divorced when he was around one year old, and his father, Randall Bowers, died by suicide while awaiting trial on a rape charge six or so years later. Robert Bowers Mr Bowers was raised in large part by his grandparents in the Pittsburgh suburb of Whitehall and attended Baldwin High School for several years before dropping out and becoming a trucker. Mr Bowers colleagues and neighbours largely described him in the aftermath of the shooting as quiet and not memorable. One toldThe New York Times that she couldnt even remember his name. However, quiet as he may have been in person, Mr Bowers was verbose online where he was radicalised and trafficked in white nationalist conspiracy theories. Mr Bowers was a heavy user of the far right social networking platform Gab, where he promoted the Great Replacement theory and made antisemitic and racist posts. Shortly before the shooting, Mr Bowers ranted against the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS) for sponsoring a National Refugee Shabbat. HIAS likes to bring invaders in that kill our people, Mr Bowers wrote on the platform. I cant sit by and watch my people get slaughtered. Screw your optics, Im going in. What happened in the shooting? On 27 October 2018, Mr Bowers entered the synagogue where three separate services were underway involving the three different congregations that practised there, and began shooting. The shooting reportedly lasted for roughly 20 mintues. Mr Bowers was allegedly armed with an assault rifle and three semi-automatic pistols. When police arrived at the synagogue about 10 minutes after Mr Bowers entered, he shot at them. He later engaged tactical teams who arrived at the synagogue in a fire fight, fleeing to a room on the third floor of the building after he was wounded. A memorial is placed inside the locked doors of the Tree of Life synagogue after the attack (Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Finally, nearly an hour-and-a-half after he entered the synagogue, Mr Bowers surrendered to law enforcement and recieved medical care for his gunshot wounds. He reportedly told a SWAT officer after surrendering that he wanted all Jews to die. Who were the victims? The shooting at Tree of Life traumatised the historically Jewish Squirrel Hill community and Jews across the nation. Eleven people were killed during the shooting and seven more were injured. The first people killed were the brothers Cecil and David Rosenthal. Jerry Rabinowitz, a physician, was killed after moving towards the sound of the shooting to see if anyone needed medical assistance. The shooting was the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history, and it carried a particular edge given that it was linked to HIAS work protecting and resettling refugees work born out of the Jewish experience of persecution in Europe in the decades leading up to the Holocaust. The people who lost their lives in the shooting were: Joyce Fienberg, 75, Richard Gottfried, 65, Rose Mallinger, 97, Jerry Rabinowitz, 66, Cecil and David Rosenthal, 59 and 54, Bernice and Sylvan Simon, 84 and 86, Daniel Stein, 71, Melvin Wax, 88, and Irving Younger, 69. What happened in opening arguments at trial? After a long delay, Mr Bowers trial began on Tuesday in Pittsburgh. There is little doubt about the verdict. Mr Bowers attorneys reportedly offered to have him plead guilty to avoid the death penalty, but prosecutors rejected that offer. Tree of Life Synagogue Vice President Alan Hausman wears a Stronger Than Hate yarmulke during a Commemoration Ceremony in Schenley Park, in Pittsburgh's Squirrel Hill neighborhood, in 2021 (Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) In her opening statement, Mr Bowers attorney Judy Clarke admitted that he went to Tree of Life in 2018 and shot every person he saw and said that there is no making sense of this senseless act. Mr Bowers caused extraordinary harm to many, many people. But Ms Clarke suggested that in Mr Bowers mind, he genuinely believed was trying to help people by targeting Jews. Mr Bowers lawyers have also claimed that he has epilepsy and schizophrenia. Whether Mr Bowers would actually be killed by the state if convicted remains to be seen. President Joe Biden voiced his opposition to the death penalty when he ran for president in 2020, and Attorney General Merrick Garland placed a moritorium on all federal executions two years ago. Sign up to our free US news bulletin sent straight to your inbox each weekday morning Sign up to our free morning US email news bulletin Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the US Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} On 27, October, 2018, Robert Bowers, then 46, allegedly walked into the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and began shooting at worshippers. He allegedly killed 11 people before he was shot and wounded and surrendered to police. Mr Bowers now faces 63 federal counts, including 11 counts each of obstruction of free exercise of religion resulting in death as well as hate crimes resulting in death. He could face the death penalty if convicted. He has pleaded not guilty. Nearly five years have passed since the shooting, but Mr Bowers' trial is only now kicking off in earnest. The trial began on Tuesday and is expected to last until late July. Robert Bowers In the months leading up the shooting, Mr Bowers was allegedly spewing bigoted and antisemitic vitriol online, investigators say. He allegedly called immigrants "invaders" and posted racist memes, including some that accused Jewish people of being the "enemy of white people." On the day of the shooting he reportedly posted a message to a web forum, saying "I can't stand by and watch my people get slaughtered. Screw your optics, I'm going in." He then allegedly proceeded to murder 11 people at the synagogue. After his arrest, police learned that Mr Bowers had 21 weapons registered to his name. He was otherwise unknown to law enforcement. They then began to review Mr Bowers' online presence, finding an account on Gab a supposedly free speech oriented, right wing social media alternative to the likes of Twitter where he allegedly posted a steady slew of hate. His bio included the phrase "Jews are the children of Satan" and his posts consisted of anti-Jewish slurs and conspiracy theories, according to the New York Times. The conspiracy theories included allegations that Jewish people were smuggling Muslims into the US, and another showing an image of the Auschwitz concentration camp, with the photo doctored to make its infamous gate read "Lies Make Money." Days before the shooting he called then-president Donald Trump a "globalist" often a term carrying antisemitic implications and said "there is no #MAGA as long as there is a k*** infestation." The omitted word is a racial slur used against Jewish people. The Tree of Life Synagogue (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Police claim that after being shot and wounded at the synagogue, Mr Bowers said: These people are committing genocide on my people. I just want to kill Jews. His defence attempted to have that quotation barred from consideration at his trial, arguing he made the statement before he was read his Miranda warning. A judge denied the motion. The alleged gunman worked as a trucker before the shooting. Prosecutors are arguing that hate drove Mr Bowers' alleged attack on the synagogue. The depths of the defendants malice and hate can only be proven in the broken bodies of those killed, and through his hateful words, Assistant US Attorney Soo C Song said during her opening statement. Prosecutors claimed in an earlier filing that Mr Bowers allegedly harbored deep, murderous animosity towards all Jewish people. The defence after unsuccessfully arguing against the use of Mr Bowers' statements to police and for a change of venue have filed a notice of mental infirmity again his potential sentencing, according to court records. They claim Mr Bowers has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and epilepsy. His attorneys have also offered a plea deal in exchange for the removal of the death penalty. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} City officials in Davenport, Iowa, have admitted that three residents of the building that collapsed on 28 May are still unaccounted for after announcing plans to proceed with the demolition of the unstable structure. A rear section of The Davenport, a six-storey apartment complex on 324 Main Street, collapsed following reports the week before that bricks were falling off the building and several complaints from tenants about their living conditions. Nine people were rescued from the wreckage, according to Davenport Fire Chief Michael Carlsten. The ninth person rescued more than 24 hours after the collapse, was Lisa Brooks following statements by Mr Carlsten that no one was believed to be trapped under the wreckage. Shes at home, shes fine now. She had passed out under the couch and the only reason she woke up, its because we were yelling her name, Ms Brooks niece Pauletta Joeanna told The Independent. Authorities admitted at two separate press conferences this week that the Davenport Police Department has yet to account for all residents of the building. Three of them, Ryan Hitchcock, Branden Colvin and Daniel Prein, are feared to still be trapped inside as of Saturday (3 June). Search efforts were called on 29 May, less than 24 after the collapse, before they were resumed later in the week to rescue animals and search for the missing men. On 2 June, the city once again called off search efforts. Confronted by reporters on 2 June on why valuable time was lost in the 48 hours without search efforts, a division chief with one of the search task forces said that they had to wait for the building to settle as it was unstable for the first 24 to 36 hours. Davenport Mayor Mike Matson said on 30 May that demolitions plans have been continuously evaluated but refused to address whether Ms Brooks rescue was a determinant factor in the reassessment. Experts who spoke at the presser said another collapse was imminent if the demolition was delayed. Fire authorities have since said they began the permitting process but will stage the demolition in a moderate and controlled manner at a later time. Firefighters are seen rescuing Lisa Brooks from the Iowa building collapse (Pauletta Joeanna) Demolition is a multi-phase process that includes permitting and staging of equipment that will begin today, a city strategy officer told KWQC in a statement. The timing of the physical demolition of the property is still being evaluated. The building remains structurally insecure and in imminent danger of collapse. City Administrator Corri Spiegel said the building likely is filled with asbestos given its age, and the city will develop a plan to ensure workers and people in the area are protected when the remaining structure is demolished. Crowds have gathered in front of the building to protest demolition plans. Mr Colvins 18-year-old son and several other relatives and family members have been camping outside of the building in hopes of putting pressure on city authorities. Although the cause of the collapse has not been determined, some residents described the sound it created as an explosion. Mr Carlsten also said during a press conference that several 911 calls were placed by residents complaining about a strong smell of gas. Residents living in the area reported that the building was known to have problems, including visible water damage and hairline cracks on the walls. Heres everything we know about the collapse: What happened? Rescuers were called to the scene shortly before 5pm on 28 May. Mr Carlsten said the back of the apartment complex collapsed and had separated from the building, which houses apartments on the upper floors and businesses on the ground level. Building resident Lexus Berry told The Quad-City Times that she narrowly escaped but her wife Quanishia and cats became trapped as the building collapsed. Ms Berry had just taken pictures of a separation between a wall and the bathroom doorway before she tried to make it to safety. We both grab our cats, she grabbed one, I grabbed one, got to the door, Ms Berry told the outlet. I watched her, and everything just fell down and everything fell on top of me, and I barely made it out the door There was nothing left where I was standing at. Everything else was gone. Davenport residents listen to an official update on the building collapse on Monday morning (AP) A firefighter climbs through the wreckage of the collapsed building (AP) In the aftermath of the tragedy, first responders worked tirelessly to evacuate tenants, initially rescuing seven people from the wreckage. For the first 12 hours that authorities were unable to locate Quanishia, her wife stayed in the area, anxiously waiting for updates and holding onto hope that Quanishia had survived the ordeal. Search crews finally located Quanishia, who was trapped under debris, on 29 May. There was a lot of debris and things surrounding her and her legs were pinned down, Lexus told The Quad-Cities Times. They were able to get one leg out, but [her left] leg in order to get her out, they had to amputate it. Mayor Matson said trauma surgeons and first responders at the scene performed procedures to save lives. Like the Berrys, dozens of families who lived in the building lost their homes, belongings and pets. What caused the collapse? The cause of the collapse has not been determined, officials said. After responding to the scene, authorities found a gas leak after the collapse and water also had leaked throughout the floors of the structure. Rich Oswald, City of Davenport director of development and neighbourhood services, said that work was being done on the buildings exterior after reports of bricks falling from the building last week. On 31 May, the city released documents, including structural engineering reports, that show city officials and the buildings owner were warned that the parts of the building were unstable. A report dated May 24, just four days before the collapse, suggested patches in the west side of the buildings brick facade appear ready to fall imminently and could be a safety hazard to cars or passersby. The report also detailed that window openings, some filled and some unfilled, were insecure. In one case, the openings were bulging outward and looked poised to fall. Inside the first floor, unsupported window openings help explain why the facade is currently about to topple outward. Despite the warnings, city officials did not order that the estimated 50 tenants leave. Demolition plans laid as three tenants feared trapped under wreckage City officials said that the building is not salvageable and would be torn down. No residents will be allowed back into the building before demolition begins due to its unstable condition. The owner of the property has been served with a notice and order for demolition of the property, Council member Kyle Gripp said. The property is currently being secured by a contractor on site this afternoon and demolition is expected to commence in the morning. Fire Marshall J Morris said that authorities faced a challenging decision, as experts recommended a demolition as soon as permitting is obtained, while family members fear that their loved ones are still alive under the rubble. Johnnie Woods told The Des Moines Register that her nephew Branden Colvin, who lived in a fifth-floor apartment in the building, did not show up for a family gathering on Sunday night. The familys attempts to locate him since have been unsuccessful. Three men, Ryan Hitchcock, Branden Colvin and Daniel Prein, are feared to still be trapped inside (DPD) Ms Woods said a neighbour of Mr Colvins told her hed seen him moments before the collapse. Mr Colvins vehicle was also in the buildings parking lot and had to be towed after the tragedy. My other nephews and other people have been trying to call his phone, and hes not answering his phone, Ms Woods told the Register. So were assuming something, that he cant talk, his phone is dead, or something. Really, we dont know anything. Police have said Mr Colvin, Ryan Hitchcock and Daniel Prein had a high probability of being home at the time of the partial building collapse. Their names have been entered in the National Database for Missing People. A woman who police said is related to Mr Hitchcock noted during the press conference on 30 May that she agreed with demolition plans. I was completely mortified about the protests. These people raising a voice, and they dont know Ryan, Amy Henderson said. The city does have a plan and pushing for any delays ... its one more day that hes under there. Ryan wouldnt want anyone else to put their lives at risk unfortunately for someone who probably has not survived. Animal rescued, second search for trapped tenants The Humane Society of Scott County announced on 29 May that several animals were rescued and reunited with their humans. Search crews combed through an area of the building, which was deemed safe enough for a second search, but did not find any signs of human activity, they said. We recovered 6 cats, 2 snakes, and 1 lizard, which were all the pets reported on our form that werent in one of the apartments where the building collapsed, the non-profit announced earlier this week. Weve already reunited 4 cats, the 2 snakes, and the lizard with their owners, and the other two will be reunited shortly! The states search and rescue team, search dogs and cameras were again used on 1 June to continue combing the building for missing people. During a press conference on 2 June, officials said the search is now moving on to recovery. Building conditions Work to bring down the building comes amid questions about why neither the owner nor city officials warned residents even after a structural engineers report issued last week indicated a wall of the century-old apartment building was at imminent risk of crumbling. The revelation was the latest flashpoint following the partial collapse that has left some residents upset with city leaders over what they see as an inept response. Do I have regrets about this tragedy and about people potentially losing their lives? Hell yeah. Do I think about this every moment? Hell yeah. Mr Matson said on 1 June. I have regrets about a lot of things. Believe me, were going to look at that. City officials said they did not order an evacuation because they relied on the engineers assurances that the building remained safe. Experts have said the structure built in the 1900s is extremely unstable. Because of the layout of the building, with the rear brick part holding together much of the steel structure, officials said there were likely no void spaces where trapped victims could have taken shelter. Authorities said its brittle condition is worsening with time and the possibility of another collapse is now imminent. We want to get everyone out, we want to do it right now, Mr Morris said as he broke down in tears at a press conference on 30 May. So understand, its not that we dont want to do this ... its that we have to do it in a safe manner. Mayor Matson also praised first responders for risking their lives with their swift response and decried criticism sparked after the search was called off. He said surgeons were performing trauma surgeries in the surroundings of the collapsed building and firefighters had gone inside void places that were extremely dangerous to get into, with the only focus to save lives. All of those folks got here in the middle of the night, immediately assessing ... [knowing] that thing is unsafe and going anywhere, he said. There heroes that have gone inside this building ... get off of that. Do you want to come at somebody? Here, Im standing right in front of you. Theyre the people who are saving lives. Allegations of collapse warnings The city has been in contact with the building owner Andrew Wold. Mr Morris said that state agencies are coordinating what agency will take the lead in the investigation but no criminal charges have been filed yet. Despite a myriad of reports from past and current tenants that the buildings conditions were unsafe, a structural engineer hired by the owner deemed the structure safe. The facade of the red brick building was ripped off, exposing the apartment units inside (AP) Ryan Shaffer, the owner of a local masonry company, told The Quad-Cities Times that he was approached by the buildings owner Andrew Wold in February about providing work to shore up the structure - which had reportedly been the subject of many complaints from tenants in the months prior - during ongoing repairs. But when Mr Shaffer provided a quote upwards of $50,000, he claims Mr Wold turned it down because it was too expensive. The rear part of the building was left exposed after several apartments came down on Sunday evening (Quad City Times) He wanted to cut the cost by cutting out the shoring and supporting of the building, Mr Shaffer told the Times. I said, If we dont do it this way exactly, Im not putting my guys in there. Somebody is going to die. Months later, Mr Shaffer said Mr Wold reached out again last week. [Mr Wold] was calling us and asking for I-beams and stuff to support it, he said. I looked at it and was like, Theres no saving it at this point. Mr Shaffer said he drove by the site two days before the collapse and warned workers: Get away, youre going to die. Last year, the building submitted nearly 20 permits, mainly for plumbing or electrical issues. Last weeks permits inspection for framing before cover appeared to be approved when the complex came down around 5pm on Sunday but now appears as failed on the City of Davenport website, local news station KWQC first reported. When confronted about the change, a city spokesperson told the outlet that it was due to a computer glitch and that it should appear as incomplete but denied a Freedom of Information Act request for the physical documents. The Independent has reached out to the city for comment. Iowa court records reviewed by The Independent show that Mr Wold and Davenport Hotel LLC are listed as defendants in a civil enforcement action brought by the City of Davenport on 30 May. Mr Wold faces a $300 fine for failing to keep the building safe, sanitary and structurally sound condition, WQAD reports. It is unclear whether Mr Wold will have a chance to present his case before city officials before the fine becomes effective. Despite a myriad of reports from past and current tenants that the buildings conditions were unsafe, a structural engineer hired by the owner deemed the structure safe, officials said. Emergency crews work the scene of a partial apartment building collapse in Davenport, Iowa (AP) Jennifer Smith, whose business is located in the building, said she first heard about the explosion from her husband, who works for Mid-American Energy. He was on call and got called in for a building explosion downtown. We had no idea it was our building, Ms Smith told the Quad-City Times. It sounds bad, but we have been calling the city and giving complaints since December. Our bathroom caved in December. Ms Smith said water damage has been apparent since they moved into their space in the winter. Her companys co-owner, Deonte Mack, said fire crews were in the building as recently as three days before the tragedy for an inspection. The tenants told us the building was going to collapse, Ms Smith said. Assistance for the victims Several law enforcement agencies responded to the scene. An air ambulance landed at the site of the emergency on Sunday night to transport victims of the collapse, while K-9 units and search crews combed through the wreckage. A school bus drives past the wreckage after the building collapse on Sunday (Quad City Times) Mayor Mike Matson said at the earlier press conference that he had spoken to state governor Kim Reynolds, who offered her assistance in the response to the disaster. Gov Reynolds said the Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security and emergency management officials are also assisting in the response. This is an active scene, the mayor said. We will continue to work, continue to evaluate, with the whole purpose of trying to find people and trying to get them out. The city announced that each displaced household would be eligible for $6,000 in addition to a $5,000 state grant for households up to 200per cent of the federal poverty level. Financial support also will be available for businesses in the building and those nearby. Close Elizabeth Holmes ordered to report to prison May 30 Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Elizabeth Holmes has reported to prison to begin her 11-year sentence for defrauding investors in her blood-testing Silicon Valley start-up Theranos. Wearing a beige sweater, jeans and sneakers, the 39-year-old mother of two was directed into Federal Prison Camp in Bryan, Texas, by staff from the Federal Bureau of Prisons minutes before a court-imposed deadline of 2pm on Tuesday. A federal appeals court rejected her bid to remain out of prison earlier this month while she attempts to overturn her January 2022 conviction on four felony counts of fraud and conspiracy. A delay was granted to give Holmes time to sort out child care for her one-year-old son William and three-month-old daughter Invicta. Holmes had originally been ordered to begin her prison sentence on 27 April. Holmes spent the Memorial Day weekend with husband Billy Evans and their children near their home in San Diego, before surrendering to authorities in Texas. She has also been ordered to pay $452m in restitution to out-of-pocket investors, including Rupert Murdoch and Betsy DeVos. Her former romantic and business partner, Ramesh Sunny Balwani, began serving a nearly 13-year prison sentence last month in Southern California. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Shocking photos have revealed how huge cracks were developing in the walls of an apartment building in Davenport, Iowa, in the weeks before its sudden collapse as questions continue to mount about whether residents should have been moved from the treacherous structure long ago. Aurea Monet lived in a studio in the six-storey apartment building for around seven months, moving out just eight weeks before the block partially collapsed on Sunday. In a series of TikTok videos, she revealed that her apartment was one of the units that totally crumpled that day pointing out what used to be her kitchen fully exposed after the remaining walls had fallen away. Ms Monet says that she broke the lease on the rental unit and moved out after noticing huge cracks on both the inside and outside wall of her apartment. The cracks started to develop after construction work began on the property, she says. Photos show a small crack close to the power socket on a wall near a window. Horrifying images then show the same crack sometime later, having spread and expanded across the wall. A photo from outside the property shows the huge crack also visible on the exterior wall. In the video, Ms Monet says they started construction a while back and during that time I noticed a crack above my outlet. She says it was much smaller at first but then the crack progressed over my time being there. Besides the crack on the wall, she says there was also a repeated drainage issue in her apartment. She says she reported the issue multiple times but it was repeatedly ignored. Former resident reveals cracks in walls of apartment before horror collapse (TikTok) When someone came to look at the pipe once, it solved the issue for about a month but then it started happening again, she says. She later learned that water from her bathtub was actually draining into the apartment below, she says. She only found out when someone moved in to the apartment and came to her in tears. She reported it too, nothing happened, nothing was fixed, she says. After that, the crack got bigger and I decided it was time to go. Ms Monet says that when she sent a letter explaining why she wanted to break the lease, the property management denied the issues. While she had a lucky escape, she feels the entire horror collapse was totally avoidable. Honestly the whole thing truly could have been avoided if for the fact that they were not continuing to keep moving people in while literal units were being condemned for not passing inspections, not being safe, she says. The crack as seen from the outside of the building (TikTok) It is not yet clear what caused Sundays collapse which began when the back of the apartment building, known as The Davenport, detached from the rest of the building. However, residents had filed numerous complaints about issues with the building in the lead-up to the disaster. Last year, almost 20 permits were filed, mainly for plumbing or electrical issues, according to the Associated Press. The last permit for the building was filed on 2 March 2 and had misc listed in the description. On Tuesday, officials finally admitted that up to five residents were still missing following the collapse of the six-story apartment building after previously claiming there were no credible reports of missing people and making plans to demolish the block while people could still be trapped inside. Davenport Mayor Mike Matson said at a press conference that five people are still unaccounted for including two who are believed to still be in the partially-collapsed building. The Davenport Police Department has been working diligently to account for the [residents] of the building, he said. Five individuals are still unaccounted for, two of those we believe to possibly be still in the building. The identities of the missing have not been released but the revelation comes after desperate neighbours, locals and loved ones have been trying to raise the alarm about two men thought to be in the building at the time of the collapse. Branden Colvin and Ryan Hitchcock have not been seen since the building suddenly collapsed at around 5pm on Sunday. Despite their whereabouts being unknown, officials had called off rescue efforts just 24 hours later on Monday and then planned to demolish the building on Tuesday morning. Residents protested the demolition plans fearing that residents could still be trapped inside and, for now, the city appears to have put them on hold. The city announced in a press release on Tuesday morning that it was continually evaluating the timing of the demolition of the building. Demolition is a multi-phase process that includes permitting and staging of equipment that will begin today, the city said. The timing of the physical demolition of the property is still be(ing) evaluated. The building remains structurally insecure and in imminent danger of collapse. The delay came after a ninth person was rescued from the rubble on Monday afternoon after officials had already said the rescue mission had moved to a recovery operation. Lisa Brooks was pulled to safety from the fourth floor of the building after she managed to call her daughter who then alerted authorities to her mothers whereabouts. Dramatic footage captured firefighters rescuing her with a bucket ladder before she was taken to hospital for evaluation. The partially-collapsed apartment building in Davenport, Iowa (Quad City Times) Ms Brooks great granddaughter Pauletta Joeanna told The Independent on Monday evening that her great grandmother lived in apartment 403 in the building and was on the phone with another relative when she seemed to suddenly hang up. That was the same time that the building collapsed. Ms Joeanna told The Independent on Tuesday that her great grandmother heard people yelling her name. Shes at home, shes fine now. She had passed out under the couch and the only reason she woke up its because we were yelling her name. Now were looking for Branden, she said. Indeed, Ms Brooks rescue has led to growing calls from locals not to pull the building down until further searches are carried out for those still missing. Local officials say they need to pull the building down due to its instability, making it unsafe for the wider public. The necessity to demolish this building stems specifically from our desire to maintain as much safety for the surrounding areas as possible, Rich Oswald, the director of development and neighborhood services in Davenport, told CNN. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Dr John Forsyth was the happiest his family had seen him in a long time. His divorce had recently been finalised and he had just asked his new partner to marry him. Three days after the proposal, 49-year-old Forsyth who had also launched a cryptocurrency business with his brother left his hospital shift in the Missouri Ozarks and told his new fiancee he would see her soon. The father-of-seven was never seen or heard from again. On Tuesday (30 May), after a desperate nine-day search, Forsyths body was found in a lake in northwest Arkansas by a passing kayaker. His car had been found unlocked and abandoned at an aquatic centre days earlier with his passport, wallet, two phones, laptop and the keys to his RV inside. What led to the doctors fortunes taking such a catastrophic turn remains a mystery, with his grieving family members now desperate for answers. Heres what we know so far about the case: Last known movements Forsyth, 49, was last heard from at around 7am on 21 May. The emergency room doctor had just finished a shift at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, a remote town of 3,100 residents deep in the Missouri Ozarks. He was texting his new fiancee as he left the hospital making plans to see her. He was texting her things like Hey, my shifts over and Ill see you a little bit later, his brother Richard Forsyth told The Daily Beastlast week. And then minutes later, he stops responding to text messages and is seen walking toward his RV. Forsyth often parked his RV in the hospital parking lot so he could sleep in it while on-call. Just minutes later at around 7.15am, Forsyth was captured on surveillance footage driving his second vehicle a Black Infiniti into the parking lot of Cassville Aquatic Park. Dr John Forsyth vanished on 21 May when he left a hospital shift (Facebook) A white SUV was then captured pulling up close to the vehicle a few minutes later, Richard said. The SUV drove away a few minutes later before Richard said his brother was seen on the footage getting out of his vehicle around 10 to 15 minutes later and walking around. And then he walks away from his car, he said. The alarm was raised later that day when Forsyth failed to show up for his next shift at the hospital. Both the hospital and his brother said it was totally out of character for him to miss work. In the 15 years he had worked at Mercy Hospital, the dedicated doctor had never missed a single shift. Dr Forsyth has never missed a shift without notifying us in the past, so when he failed to arrive for his scheduled shift, and we were unable to reach him, we became concerned and alerted authorities, the hospital said. We invite everyone to join us in praying for his safe return. Richard told The Daily Beast he wouldnt miss a shift even if his eyeballs were hanging out of their sockets. It was an immediate red flag, he said. His hospital colleagues reported him missing to Cassville Police that day. The search Two days later on 23 May, Forsyths Infiniti was found abandoned in a remote area near the Cassville Aquatic Center. The car had been left unlocked and investigators found his two cellphones, laptop, keys, wallet and passport inside. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, carried out extensive searches spanning a nine-mile radius around the park. Thermal imaging drones and K9 dogs were drafted in to help with the search but they found no clues as to the doctors whereabouts. As the search rumbled on, Forsyths desperate family members set up a Facebook page titled Find Dr John Forsyth to raise awareness about the case and seek information from the public. Dr Forsyths car was found at the Cassville Aquatic Center (above) (KOLR) On Monday, Forsyths sister Tiffany posted an update about her brother. My brother has now been missing for week. Im grieving, Im afraid, and it feels like the world has tipped into sheer chaos, she wrote. Ive often felt like Johnny and I are two sides of the same coin. Our lives have lead us in very different directions, but in the last couple of years weve been bonding over our intense desire to understand the mysteries of the universe, and Ive treasured those conversations like precious jewels. I rarely meet anyone I can toss around ideas with like he can. Now hes disappeared, seemingly into thin air. We have so much more to talk about. Im so afraid hes just gone. Please dont let this be how this ends. The hole that will leave in my life will be empty forever. Please help us find him. Speculation Forsyths family said there no warning signs prior to his disappearance as speculation and theories spread online. Richard said he had last seen his brother just a few days before his disappearance and he seemed the happiest he had seen him in a while. We had dinner Wednesday before he disappeared, and we sat and talked for three hours, he told AP. I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future. Forsyth had also been making plans for the future, proposing to his new girlfriend just three days before he vanished. He was a doting father to his seven children and really cared for his patients, Richard said. As the case drew attention online, speculation grew that the doctors disappearance could be tied to his recent divorce or the cryptocurrency business he had launched with his brother. In his divorce, Forsyth was given a court order to pay almost $20,000 in child support and alimony to his ex-wife. Richard told OzarksFirst that the amount of money was not a concern to his brother. A second rumour suggested there may be some link between his disappearance and the brothers crypto business. Richard told the local outlet that one person had been angry with Forsyth and vowed revenge. But he said that the person in question was somewhere overseas and insisted that neither the individual nor the business venture was connected to his brothers disappearance. Dr Forsyths body was found in a lake on Tuesday (Facebook) He expressed some extreme emotions towards us that he would get revenge. And ultimately his campaign failed, and we didnt hear from him again, Richard said. I dont see that being enough motivation for someone to cross the Atlantic and cause trouble. While the family sought to put the rumors to rest, Richard said that his brothers disappearance was suspicious. A lot of oddities about his disappearance and police kind of agreed after an investigation that the circumstances are pretty suspicious, he said. The tragic discovery The search ended in tragedy on Tuesday (30 May) when Forsyths body was discovered in a lake in northwest Arkansas Benton County. My brother has been found and he is dead. Thank you to everyone who assisted in the search, Richard wrote in a heartbreaking Facebook post. The Benton County Sheriffs Department confirmed that the body was found by a kayaker. The cause of death appeared to be a gunshot wound. While the full circumstances surrounding the tragic discovery are not yet clear, Cassville Police told the Associated Press that there were no signs of foul play. Forsyths family told KOLR that they are meeting with detectives on Wednesday to get additional information. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A woman who was rescued nearly 24 hours after the collapse of her apartment building in Davenport, Iowa, narrowly escaped getting caught up in a planned demolition. Her family are crediting her escape not to rescue crews but to people shouting her name from the street. Lisa Brooks was speaking with a relative on the phone when her six-storey apartment complex on 324 Main Street fell down on Sunday evening. Eight people were rescued within the first twelve hours of the tragedy, but there were no signs of Ms Brooks. For an entire day, family members hoped for a miracle amid reports by city officials that demolition was imminent as the structure was too unstable. But at the eleventh hour, Ms Brooks was rescued by firefighters after she managed to call her daughter and alert authorities to her whereabouts. Ms Brooks great-granddaughter Pauletta Joeanna told The Independent on Tuesday that Ms Brooks was unconscious for a long time. She attributed her great-grandmothers last-minute escape in part to family members who were at the scene. Dramatic footage posted by Ms Joeanna also shows Ms Brooks escape as she is lowered to safety by a firefighter. Shes at home, shes fine now. She had passed out under the couch and the only reason she woke up is because we were yelling her name, Ms Joeanna said. At a press conference on Tuesday, Davenport Mayor Mike Matson admitted that he does not know why Ms Brooks hadnt been found sooner despite the use of K-9 units to search for humans in the rubble. A common question is, why was she still there and why wasnt she found earlier? Im going to be completely transparent with you, I do not know. We do not know. But understand that I, and the city, are committed to finding out why, Mr Matson said. The mayor also confirmed that five tenants are unaccounted for. Two of them, Branden Colvin and Ryan Hitchcock, are believed to be in the building. On Tuesday morning, a crowd gathered in front of the building with signs reading Corruption Collapses Communities and chanting Save Branden, save Ryan! The transition into a recovery phase and plans for the demolition were announced not even 24 hours after the collapse, but authorities have since said they began the permitting process but will stage the demolition in a moderate and controlled manner at a later time. Firefighters rescue tenant Lisa Brooks (Pauletta Joeanna) Davenport residents in front of a building that collapsed on Sunday (AP) In the interest of public safety, the City has been continually evaluating the timing of the demolition of 324 Main Street since its initial collapse 36 hours ago, a city strategy officer told KWQC in a statement. Demolition is a multi-phase process that includes permitting and staging of equipment that will begin today. The timing of the physical demolition of the property is still being evaluated. The building remains structurally insecure and in imminent danger of collapse. Confronted by reporters, Mr Matson said that demolitions plans have been continuously evaluated but refused to address whether Ms Brooks rescue was a determinant factor in the reassessment. Emergency crews at the scene of a building collapse in Davenport, Iowa (AP) A firefigther combs trhough the rubble while searching for survivors (AP) Davenport Police Chief Jeff Bledel said that the department had contingency meetings on Monday night with the families of Mr Colvin and Mr Hitchcock, the men feared to still be in the building, to debrief the ongoing operations. Experts have said the structure built in the 1900s is extremely unstable. Because of the layout of the building, with the rear brick part holding together much of the steel structure, officials said there were likely no void spaces where trapped victims could have taken shelter. Authorities said its brittle condition is worsening with time and the possibility of another collapse is now imminent. We want to get everyone out, we want to do it right now, Fire Marshal J Morris said as he broke down in tears at Tuesdays press conference. So understand, its not that we dont want to do this ... its that we have to do it in a safe manner. Mayor Matson praised first responders for risking their lives with their swift response and decried criticism sparked after the search was called off. He said surgeons were performing trauma surgeries in the surroundings of the collapsed building and firefighters had gone inside void places that were extremely dangerous to get into, with the only focus to save lives. All of those folks got here in the middle of the night, immediately assessing ... [knowing] that thing is unsafe and going anywhere, he said. There heroes that have gone inside this building ... get off of that. Do you want to come at somebody? Here, Im standing right in front of you. Theyre the people who are saving lives. Protesters at the site of a building collapse in Davenport (Photos by Joseph Cress; Iowa City Press-Citizen, part of the USA TODAY NETWORK) A school bus drives past the wreckage (Quad City Times) The city has been in contact with the building owner Andrew Wold. Mr Morris said that state agencies are coordinating what agency will take the lead in the investigation but no criminal charges have been filed yet. Despite a myriad of reports from past and current tenants that the buildings conditions were unsafe, a structural engineer hired by the owner deemed the structure safe. Residents of the building had long complained about issues with it. Last year, nearly 20 permits were filed, mainly for plumbing or electrical issues, according to the Associated Press. The last permit for the building was filed on March 2 and had misc listed in the description. Resident Todd Wilson said that he received a call from the city last year telling him to evacuate his apartment within 48 hours because bricks were falling off. What they did was they switched ownership and they gave them time to fix it, but they didnt do it properly, Mr Wilson told The Quad-City Times. Jennifer Smith, whose business is located in the building, said she first heard about the explosion from her husband, who works for Mid-American Energy. It sounds bad, but we have been calling the city and giving complaints since December. Our bathroom caved in December, Ms Smith told the Quad-City Times. The tenants told us the building was going to collapse. Ms Smith said water damage has been apparent since they moved into their space in the winter. Her companys co-owner, Deonte Mack, said fire crews were in the building as recently as Thursday for an inspection. The Quad-City Times reports the builder owner is 41-year-old Andrew Wold. According to a profile published on the outlets website in 2016, Mr Wold is an avid real estate buyer with a large portfolio. I like to buy blocks, he said at the time. I like to be able to control the area, to kind of police it. A working phone number for Mr Wold was not immediately available. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A missing Missouri ER doctor who was found dead in an Arkansas lake had suffered an apparent gunshot wound, say officials. Dr John Forsyth, 49, disappeared on 21 May after a shift at a hospital in the Ozarks just days after proposing to his fiancee. His body showed up nine days later in Beaver Lake in Arkansas. A kayaker found the body of the father of seven on Tuesday afternoon in Benton County, the county sheriffs department said in a statement. Investigators have not said if the gunshot wound was self-inflicted or caused by another person and an investigation into the death is underway. Autopsy results are still pending. Forsyths vehicle was found unlocked with his wallet, two phones, a laptop and other items inside, his family have said. Police have said that there were no signs of foul play. Dr Forsyths body was found in a lake on Tuesday (Facebook) The doctors brother, Richard Forsyth, told Fox News Digital that his brother had claimed he was kidnapped and released without harm in February 2022. Theres no way he killed himself, Richard told the outlet. Many times he mentioned he might be in danger. And he added about the claim: It was cold. He was zip-tied. He was made to feel very unsafe and taken on a car ride with some people to a bridge and was threatened. Mr Forsyth said that no police report was ever filed and that he only found out about it from a friend on the night his brother went missing. He did not file a police report because he believed he was in continued danger, Richard Forsyth said. Forsyth had worked as a doctor at the Cassville hospital for about 15 years. The family says that Forsyth had reached a divorce settlement with his wife on 11 May that paid her $19,000 per month in alimony and child support, but stated that the couple had an amicable relationship after their split. Cassville Police Detective Stuart Lombard has said that Forsyth texted his fiancee at 7am saying that he would see her in a little bit and then stopped responding. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A Tennessee woman who disappeared on a cross-country roadtrip with her boyfriend has been found safe in California, police say. Nikki Alcaraz, 33, and her boyfriend Tyler Stratton were located in the town of Eureka at 7.15am on Tuesday after a witness called to report a sighting, Redding Police Department said in a statement. Mr Stratton has been arrested on an unrelated outstanding warrant, Eureka police said. Ms Alcaraz left her home in Cheatham County in her black Jeep Wrangler with her Mr Stratton to visit family in Orange County, California, earlier this month. Her family said they developed grave concerns for her safety after the couple were pulled over by authorities in New Mexico for an alleged domestic violence incident. Nikki Alcaraz, right, vanished while travelling from Tennessee to California with her boyfriend Tyler Stratton, left (Cheatham County Sheriffs Office ) Officers let them go without pressing criminal charges after Mr Stratton claimed he had also been hit. Bodycam from the incident released on Tuesday showed both Ms Alcaraz and Mr Stratton with facial injuries. Ms Alcarazs disappearance attracted nationwide attention after drawing comparisons to the Gabby Petito case. In 2021, Petito and her boyfriend Brian Laundrie were pulled over in Moab, Utah, after police received reports of a domestic assault. Tyler Stratton has been arrested in California, after his girlfriend Nikki Alcaraz was reported missing on a cross country roadtrip (Eureka Police Department) The officers failed to press charges against Laundrie after he claimed he had also been hit, and he went on to murder the 22-year-old vlogger and dump her remains in the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. Police said Ms Alcaraz who also goes by Nikki Cunningham was spotted in a Walmart in Redding, California, on 27 May. Then on Tuesday, Redding police announced she was located unharmed. The Redding Police Department has been in contact with the Moriarty, New Mexico Police Department and confirmed Nikki is no longer considered a missing person. Earlier, Ms Alcarazs sister, Toni Alcaraz told WKRN that she hadnt heard from her since she received a text message on 9 May saying she was planning to continue to California. Nikki Alcaraz suffered a black eye after she was allegedly assaulted by her boyfriend Mr Stratton (Cheatham County Sheriffs Office) The sister said that she spoke to Ms Alcaraz after the alleged assault and that she was crying and upset. Her eye was already turning black and you could tell she was beat up pretty bad, Toni Alcaraz told the news site. Photos released by the Cheatham County Sheriffs Department showed Ms Alcaraz with a black left eye after the incident. According to an incident report, Mr Stratton claimed he had also been hit, and Torrance County sheriffs deputies observed blood coming from his mouth. Ms Alcaraz was previously thought to have been last seen on the morning of 6 May at a Super 8 motel in the small town of Moriarty, New Mexico, about 40 miles east of Albuquerque. A license plate reader picked up Ms Alcarazs Jeep near Flagstaff, Arizona earlier this month, but police said her cellphone was out of service and untraceable. Then a Cheatham County deputy told News 2 that she was seen at a Walmart in Redding, California, on 27 May. A photo released by the county District Attorney General Ray Crouch shows her selling her phone at an ecoATM. In September 2021, Gabby Petitos remains were found in the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming after she disappeared on a road trip with her boyfriend Brian Laundrie. The couple was pulled over in Utah by officers from the Moab Police Department on 12 August after receiving reports that Laundrie had struck Petito. They were allowed to continue separately after Laundrie claimed he had been hit by Petito. An independent review of the domestic assault incident found the officers had made several mistakes, and should have been classified as a domestic assault. Laundrie later shot himself in the head and left a suicide note confessing to killing Petito. Petitos family are suing the Moab Police Department for failing to follow the law and protect her during the traffic stop. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A federal judge in Washington, DC will hear a conservative think tanks organisation appeal to unseal Prince Harrys US immigration records in June. Nile Gardner, director of the Margaret Thatcher Centre for Freedom at the Heritage Foundation, tweeted on Tuesday that a hearing on his organisations suit will be heard on 6 June and be open to the press. If a judge agrees to unseal the immigration records, it could have significant implications for Prince Harrys legal status: in his autobiography, the British royal family member detailed his past drug use even though past drug use can be grounds to deny a visa application in the US. When Prince Harry filled out his US visa application, he was likely asked about his past drug use. The Heritage Foundation wants to know, given the revelations in his book, how he responded. So far, theyve had little success obtaining access to the visa records to tell them whether Prince Harry either lied on his application or whether he told the truth about his past drug use and was granted perferential treatment when his application was approved anyway. The Heritage Foundation had previously requested that the application be made public in an expedited manner under the Freedom of Information Act, but a court denied that request on the grounds that Prince Harrys 2020 move to California did not raise significant enough questions about governmental integrity to warrant the unsealing of the records. The Heritage Foundation then appealed to the US District Court for the District of Columbia, where a judge has reportedly agreed to hear their case. Prince Harry married the American actor Meghan Markle in 2018 and eventually moved to the US two years later, purchasing a home in the small, affluent Southern California town of Montecito. The move came after Ms Markle, who is biracial and Black, clashed repeatedly with members of the British press. Ms Markle and Prince Harry stepped down as active members of the Royal Family around the time they moved to the US, when, presumably, the Duke of Sussex was granted a visa. People moving to the US are often initially granted a three-year visa, which means that Prince Harry may have to apply for another visa this year and possibly answer questions again about his drug use. Prince Harry is currently involved in another high-profile legal battle in the UK as one of the plantiffs suing the Mirror Group Newspapers, the publisher of the Daily Mirror, over allegations of phone-hacking. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A survivor of the partially collapsed building in Davenport, Iowa, has revealed her wife had her leg amputated by rescuers trying to save her. Lexus and Quanishia Berry were taking pictures of a crack between a wall and the bathroom doorway when the rear part of their building came down around 5pm on Sunday. Lexus was standing on a part of the structure that didnt collapse, but in a matter of seconds, her wife and two cats disappeared under the rubble. In the aftermath of the tragedy, first responders worked tirelessly to evacuate tenants, initially rescuing seven people from the wreckage. For the first 12 hours that authorities were unable to locate Quanishia, her wife stayed in the area, anxiously waiting for updates and holding onto hope that Quanishia had survived the ordeal. On Monday morning, search crews finally located Quanishia, who was trapped under debris. There was a lot of debris and things surrounding her and her legs were pinned down, Lexus told The Quad-Cities Times. They were able to get one leg out, but [her left] leg in order to get her out, they had to amputate it. Lexus was briefly brought to where his wife was located to speak to her before trauma surgeons performed the challenging surgery. Quanishia was given pain medication and rushed to an area hospital once a team of doctors and firefighters were able to free her from the rubble. Lexus and Quanishia Berry lived in the Davenport apartment building that collapsed on Sunday. Quanishia lost her left leg during her rescue (Lexus Berry/Facebook ) They gave me literally just a minute, if not 40 seconds, Lexus told the Times. They gave me a hard hat, and there were about three or four of them that walked me into the building ... I just got to say, I love you, youre OK, you got this. Dont worry. The couple lost their home, their belongings and their two cats. A GoFundMe has been created by friends to help cover costs that incur as Quanishia recovers and they search for a new home accessible for her. I know how strong she is, because she was down there for over seven hours and she survived, so she can survive anything, Lexus told the Times. Its just the feeling of knowing that shes hurt, hurts me. I hate to see her in pain. Its really hard to see her in the state that she is. Quanisha remains hospitalised and is currently on a ventilator. Doctors have told her wife that more surgeries might be needed during her recovery process. We call her Peach because shes sweet. She puts other people before herself. She takes care of me, Lexus said. If Im sick or if I cant take care of myself, she literally nurses me back to health. To be able to do that for her is very important. Lexus also criticised the response of city officials to the tragedy. The people that are having press conferences, the mayor theyre not telling the full story, she told the Times. Children draw on the ground with chalk at the scene where an apartment building partially collapsed on Sunday afternoon (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) Clothing hanging in an apartment building that partially collapsed (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) The announcement of demolition plans less than 24 hours after the collapse, before city officials even acknowledged they had been unable to locate several residents, has sparked outrage within the community who as protesters gathered at the site. The 11th-hour rescue of a tenant who had passed out under a couch and awoke to the sound of family yelling her name also heightened concern that the men could be alive under the rubble. Five people are unaccounted for. Authorities said they now face a gruelling decision as engineers warned another collapse of the remaining structure is imminent but at least two men, Ryan Hitchcock and Branden Davis, are feared to be trapped in the existing wreckage. The structure was undergoing permitted repairs at the time of the collapse, officials said. Last year, nearly 20 permits were filed, mainly for plumbing or electrical issues, according to the Associated Press. A permits inspection for framing before cover appeared to be approved when the complex came down around 5pm on Sunday but now appears as failed on the City of Davenport website, local news station KWQC first reported. When confronted about the change, a city spokesperson told the outlet that it was due to a computer glitch but denied a Freedom of Information Act request for the physical documents. The Independent has reached out to the city for comment. Five people are unaccounted for, with two of them believed to be under the rubble (AP) The city has been in contact with the building owner Andrew Wold, Mr Morris said on Tuesday. State agencies are coordinating what agency will take the lead in the investigation but no criminal charges have been filed so far. Iowa court records reviewed by The Independent on Wednesday show that Mr Wold and Davenport Hotel LLC are listed as defendants in a civil enforcement action brought by the City of Davenport on 30 May. Mr Wold was given a $300 fine for failing to keep the building safe, sanitary and structurally sound condition, WQAD reports. Despite a myriad of reports from past and current tenants that the buildings conditions were unsafe, a structural engineer hired by the owner deemed the structure safe, officials said. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The only three known living survivors of the deadliest racist attack in American history are awaiting a courts crucial decision in a lengthy legal battle more than a century in the making. Two years ago on the eve of the 100th anniversary of a brutal two-day attack in a once-thriving Black neighbourhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma a lawsuit against the city, military officials and other institutions demanded justice for the families and community living in the long, violent shadow of a massacre that left as many as 300 Black people dead and thousands homeless. On 31 May, 1921, a white mob supported by law enforcement and city officials launched one the bloodiest episodes of racist violence in the 20th century one in which no one has ever been criminally charged. Now, 102 years later, a lawsuit from Viola Fletcher, Hughes Van Ellis and Lessie Benningfield Randle who were all small children during the attack aims to correct the record about the Tulsa race massacre and establish a fund for survivors and their descendants. On 10 May, survivors returned to a Tulsa courtroom for a hearing on whether their case against the city and state can continue, after several attempts from defendants to dismiss the case. Ms Fletcher turned 109 years old that day. A decision from Judge Caroline Wall is imminently expected. Despite the indisputable facts about the Tulsa race massacre and the ongoing generational damage that it caused, there has not been any constructive, tangible action taken to address and repair its catastrophic harm, according to a statement from attorney Sara Solfanelli with Schulte Roth & Zabel. There is a path to justice through the legal system and this lawsuit, and its a real opportunity for the survivors to see that justice in their lifetimes. Civil rights attorney Damario Solomon-Simmons, who is leading the legal efforts with the Justice for Greenwood Foundation, said the plaintiffs remain hopeful that Judge Wall will do the right thing by our survivors and be the first to take a stand for justice. The lawsuit invokes a public nuisance statute, stemming from the 1921 attack, in an attempt to circumvent a statute of limitations for civil suits that prevented previous attempts for plaintiffs recover damages in the years that followed. The city, state and other defendants, including the Chamber of Commerce and county sheriffs office, have filed several motions to dismiss the lawsuit in Tulsa County District Court. John Tucker, an attorney for the Tulsa Regional Chamber, among the defendants in the lawsuit, argued that the court does not have jurisdiction to help right century-old wrongs. Mr Solomon-Simmons disagrees, pointing to decades of neglect and festering racial disparities that followed two days of violence in Tulsas Black Wall Street of Greenwood. Hughes Van Ellis, Lessie Benningfield Randle and Viola Fletcher the last known living survivors of the Tulsa race massacre are pictured in 2021, on the 100th anniversary of the attack (Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) A 2001 commission tasked with investigating the massacre said the mob set fire to practically every building in the African American community, including a dozen churches, five hotels, 31 restaurants, four drug stores, eight doctors offices, more than two dozen grocery stores, and the Black public library. In their testimony to Congress in 2021, survivors recounted the horrors they witnessed as young children and pressed lawmakers to support their calls for justice. They murdered people, Ms Randle told lawmakers. I still see it today in my mind I have survived 100 years of painful memories and losses. By the grace of God, I am still here. I have survived. I have survived to tell this story. I believe I am still here to share it with you. Hopefully, now you all will listen to us while we are still here. By the 1960s, Greenwood was beginning to get back on its feet, with Black businesses opening throughout its 35 blocks. But the long road to recovery would suffer the same systemic impacts of racial violence that reverberated across the US throughout the 20th century, from redlining and the construction of highways through Black neighbourhoods to urban renewal initiatives and the use of eminent domain to seize Black-owned property. In a photo from 2022, crews are pictured working to recover human remains believed to be victims of the Tulsa race massacre from 1921 (The City of Tulsa) A commission appointed by the Oklahoma state legislature in 1997 spent nearly four years investigating the massacre before issuing four major recommendations to state and local governments, including guidance to make direct payments to survivors and their families. Most of the recommendations never fully materialised, or have fallen short of community demands and expectations. The failure to provide comprehensive reparations and efforts from city and state officials to raise millions of dollars for museums and tourist attractions that profit from the atrocities have only compounded the harms, according to attorneys and advocates for the survivors. Last month, a team of researchers hoping to identify victims of the massacre announced they had completed DNA sequencing from remains exhumed from a city cemetery where the bodies of Black residents who were killed in the attacks are believed to have been buried. Many victims are believed to be buried in unmarked graves, though their locations are unclear. Witnesses have also described bodies being thrown into the Arkansas River or into mass graves. President Joe Biden, in remarks from Tulsa on the 100th anniversary of the massacre in 2021, called on Americans to reckon with the nations troubling past, marking the first time a sitting president has traveled to the city to acknowledge the atrocities. We should know the good, the bad, everything, he said in his address. Thats what great nations do. They come to terms with their dark sides. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Sean Diddy Combs has accused alcohol giant Diageo of racial discrimination in a new lawsuit, which claims the spirits company neglected his DeLeon tequila brand in favour of George Clooneys Casamigos. In the lawsuit, which was filed in New York on Wednesday (30 May), attorneys for the American rappers Combs Wines and Spirits alleged that the London-based liquor company had typecast DeLeon tequila as a Black brand and marketed it to only urban customers. Rather than equal treatment, Diageo has treated Mr Combs and his brands worse than others because he is Black, the lawsuit claimed. Diageo has typecast Ciroc and DeLeon, apparently deciding they are Black brands that should be targeted only to urban consumers. As tequila sales have grown in the United States in recent years, Combs claimed that DeLeon hasnt benefited from the same growth as other tequilas, like George Clooney-founded Casamigos, which was acquired by Diageo in 2017. In addition to DeLeon, Combs also alleged that Diageo neglected marketing for Ciroc, the vodka brand he co-owns with the company. Combs claimed that following Diageos acquisition of Casamigos, the company effectively abandoned his brands. In a business where production, distribution, and sales are the pillars of success, Ciroc and DeLeon have been starved of resources for all three, the lawsuit read. While Diageo invested in and expanded its other brands many of which were acquired after Ciroc and DeLeon Mr Combs brands were allowed to wither. The lawsuit also described an alleged incident in which Diageo executive Stephen Rust told Combs that race was one of the reasons why Diageo had limited its distribution. In their exchange, Rust allegedly said that if Combs were Martha Stewart, things would be different, according to the court filing. In a statement to The Independent, Diageo denied the allegations of racial discrimination: This is a business dispute, and we are saddened that Mr Combs has chosen to recast this matter as anything other than that. Our steadfast commitment to diversity within our company and the communities we serve is something we take very seriously. We categorically deny the allegations that have been made and will vigorously defend ourselves in the appropriate forum, a spokesperson said. For more than 15 years, weve had a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with Mr Combs on various business ventures, making significant investments that have resulted in financial success for all involved. We are disappointed our efforts to resolve this business dispute amicably have been ignored and that Mr Combs has chosen to damage a productive and valued partnership. While we respect Mr Combs as an artist and entrepreneur, his allegations lack merit, and we are confident the facts will show that he has been treated fairly. The music mogul entered a partnership with Diageo to develop their Ciroc vodka brand in 2007 as part of an equal-share venture with profits split between Combs and Diageo. In 2013, they formed another joint venture to purchase DeLeon. Tequila and mezcal sales reached a record $6 billion in the US in 2022, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. Jose Cuervo, Patron, Don Julio, and Casamigos continue to be some of the top-selling tequila brands in the US. The Independent has contacted representatives for Sean Diddy Combs for comment. Close Voting has started as lawmakers agree on a debt limit deal Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} President Joe Biden has signed a bill to raise the national debt limit two days before the default deadline. The White House announced the signing in a statement on Saturday afternoon, hours after Mr Biden spoke to the nation on Friday evening from the Oval Office and welcomed the bills bipartisan passage. The Senate on Thursday passed a bipartisan agreement forged by Mr Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to raise the $31.4 trillion US debt ceiling after the deal survived a Republican rebellion in the House of Representatives. The narrowness of the Fiscal Responsibility Acts passage through the House was made possible through the support of Democrats, who stepped in to thwart a conservative revolt that badly undermined Speaker McCarthys claims to control his increasingly divided party. Full congressional approval was required before Monday 5 June, when the Treasury Department was expected to run out of funds to pay its debts for the first time in American history, triggering likely economic chaos. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The bipartisan agreement to raise the debt limit cleared a key hurdle on Tuesday evening despite vehement criticism from many House Republicans. The House Rules Committee voted 7-6 to advance the legislation that codifies the bipartisan agreement struck between House Speaker Kevin McCarthys team and negotiators from President Joe Bidens administration. The rule will now go to the full House floor before the agreement comes to a full House vote. The rule passed after an hours-long deliberation in the committee that included multiple amendment proposals. The vote comes as Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned that the United States will be unable to satisfy its debt obligations come 5 June. The House of Representatives is set to vote But many House Republicans raised objections, including members of the House Freedom Caucus who had previously opposed Mr McCarthys bid for speaker in January. Rep Andy Biggs (R - AZ) told The Independent that Mr McCarthys deal with the White House was a repeat of his past behaviour. When he was been in leadership for 13 years, it was not uncommon for him to be the point man to go negotiate a spending cap deal with the Democrats, he said. Many Republicans criticised the fact that the legislation keeps in place Mr Bidens student loan forgiveness, only claws back a small sliver of money meant to increase funding for the Internal Revenue Service and raises the debt limit until January 2025, after the 2024 presidential election. Rep Bob Good (R - VA) told The Independent that the bill symbolised a surrender from House Republican leadership. We have literally come together and our leadership and their leadership and agreed on a Democrat bill, Mr Good told The Independent. But many allies of Mr McCarthy also opposed the legislation. Rep Nancy Mace (R - SC), who voted for Mr McCarthy for speaker in January, announced her opposition to the bill. Washington is, was and always will be lousy at responsibly spending your tax dollars, she tweeted. That wont change unless we demand change. Rep Chip Roy (R - TX) refuted the idea that conservatives would want the United States to default on its debt obligations. The only person who would default in this town is Joe Biden unless Republicans default on the American dream by voting for this bad bill, he said at a press conference. That is why this group will oppose it, we will continue to fight it, today, tomorrow, and no matter what happens, theres going to be a reckoning about what just occurred. Mr Roy had tweeted on Monday that during the negotiations for the speakership, Republican leaders pledged that nothing would pass the Rules Committee without at least seven Republican votes and the committee would not allow for reporting out rules without unanimous Republican votes. During the negotiations, Mr Roy tried to stress his opposition and said why Republicans should oppose the bill. We're not going to reduce spending through this deal. Unless we actually stand up and reduce spending it'll be on us to choose to, he said during the hearing. But this deal isn't going to reduce spending even though everybody's going around saying it will. But some Republicans stressed that the agreement was the only one that could pass the House and Senate and end up on the presidents desk. We only control one-half of one-third of government, Rep Erin Houchin (R - IN) said. Theres no better deal to be had. Mr McCarthy expressed confidence in a press conference that he would have enough votes to raise the debt limit. Im not sure what in the bill people are concerned about, he told reporters, saying it is the largest savings in congressional history. Were pulling money back for the hard-working taxpayers that are going to China. Are they opposed to work requirements for welfare? The Congressional Budget Office estimated that if the bill passed, the budget deficit would be reduced by about $1.5 trillion through a period from 2024 to 2033. In addition, the provision in the legislation that would exempt for veterans, people experiencing homelessness and adults between the ages of 18 and 24 who were in foster care when they turned 18 from work requirements to obtain the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP, would mean 78,000 people would gain benefits. The increase comes despite the fact that the legislation would raise the age for work requirements for SNAP from 50 to 54. On the Senate side, both Republican and Democratic leaders praised the agreement. Congress will vote on legislation that locks in that important progress, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R - KY) said in remarks on the Senate floor. Republicans have a tremendous opportunity to take on an existential challenge facing our economy and future generations of Americans. We have a chance to start bringing Washington Democrats reckless spending to heel. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer ((D - NY) said the bill was a reasonable compromise. Of course, nobody is getting everything they want there is give on both sides but this agreement is the responsible, prudent and very necessary way forward, he said on the Senate floor. Mr Schumer said he would bring the bill up as quickly as possible for consideration before the default deadline on 5 June. Close Ron DeSantis snaps at reporter who asked why he wasnt taking questions from the public Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Ron DeSantis has vowed to dismantle Joe Bidens disastrous economic policies if he wins the White House during a campaign stop in Iowa over the weekend. Mr DeSantis claimed President Bidens agenda was crushing working Americans and pledged: Were going to focus on small business NOT big business. The Florida governor endured something of a rocky week on the campaign trail, snapping at a reporter and being heckled by a woman in South Carolina who told him: Youre a f***ing fascist. Well, yeah, thank you, the candidate replied. Mr DeSantis was also forced to give his own definition of woke after Republican rival Donald Trump claimed half the people cannot define the governors favourite word. Reacting to that broadside on Saturday, Mr DeSantis said: Look, we know what woke is. Its a form of cultural Marxism. Its about putting merit and achievement behind identity politics, and its basically a war on the truth. Two days earlier, Mr Trump had criticised the attack line, declaring: I dont like the term woke because I hear, Woke, woke, woke. Its just a term they use, half the people cant even define it. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} President Joe Biden will host British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at the White House next week for talks on Ukraine, climate issues and more. Sunak is slated to visit Washington on June 7-8 and will also meet with U.S. lawmakers and business leaders in addition to his Oval Office meeting next Thursday with Biden. The meeting comes after the White House announced earlier this month that Biden was endorsing an international effort forged by the U.K. and other allies to train and eventually equip Ukraine with the F-16 fighter jets that President Volodymyr Zelesnkky has long sought. Biden is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark, another key partner in the F-16 effort, on Monday. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement that the two leaders are also expected the U.S.-U.K. economic relationship and developments in Northern Ireland. British officials downplayed hopes that the visit would produce significant action toward forging a new U.S.-U.K. trade agreement, which the British government accepts is dead for now. Sunak spokesman Max Blain said he wouldnt expect either side to be pushing for that, adding We are not seeking to pursue a free-trade deal with the U.S. currently. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Former vice president Mike Pence is expected to announce his campaign for 2024 president next Wednesday, according to reports. Mr Pence, 63, will make the official announcement on 7 June just before his town hall with CNN in Des Moines, Iowa, a source told NBC News. The Messenger also reported that Mr Pences presidnetial launch was imminent. For months, speculation has circulated that the former vice president was planning on joining the already-packed race for the White House. When Mr Pence announces, he will be joining his old boss, former president, Donald Trump along with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson and other GOP candidates in the increasingly crowded 2024 field. According to sources, Mr Pence will be spending much of his campaign in Iowa before the caucuses, spending time in all 99 counties. The former vice president will likely have some explaining to do to Trump-aligned voters who tried to re-elect him and Mr Trump in 2020. After election results determined President Joe Biden had won, Mr Trump suggested Mr Pence not certify the results on 6 January 2021. Mr Pence rebuffed Mr Trumps demand. Mr Trump placed heavy blame on Mr Pence for losing the election and ultimately an angry mob of Trump supporters attacked the Capitol building on January 6 some with the intention to seize Mr Pence or hang him, as the crowd outside chanted. In the aftermath of January 6, Mr Pence has made a sharp turn against Mr Trump thus driving a rift between himself and Trump voters. Though it is unclear if Mr Pence will be able to rally former supporters behind him. As of now, the former vice president is polling slightly ahead of Ms Haley but trailing far behind Mr Trump and Mr DeSantis, according to FiveThirtyEight. Mr Pence served as vice president under Mr Trump from 2017 until 2021. He was also governor of Indiana from 2013 until 2017 as well as a representative for Indiana from 2001 until 2013. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Nikki Haley's husband will soon begin a yearlong deployment with the South Carolina Army National Guard to Africa, a mission that will encompass most of the remainder of his wife's campaign for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. A formal deployment ceremony will likely happen in the next few weeks, a person with knowledge of Michael Haley's deployment told The Associated Press on Wednesday. This spring, the South Carolina National Guard called officers with his skill set to deploy in support of U.S. Africa Command, according to the person, who was not authorized to publicly discuss the deployment and spoke on condition of anonymity. It will be his second active-duty deployment since he joined the Guard as an officer in 2006. Nikki Haley, a former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor, has been highly critical of President Joe Biden's competency as commander in chief as she campaigns for the GOP nomination. She has spoken out against his administration's efforts to expand diversity in the military, complaining they were weakening the force and hampering recruitment, though the Army has said that the real problem is that many young people do not see enlistment as safe or a good career path. She has also pledged to make cuts in $46 billion in foreign aid to countries she says hate America. While not directly confirming the deployment, Nikki Haley said in a statement to the AP that her family is ready to make personal sacrifices when our loved one answers the call. We could not be prouder of Michael and his military brothers and sisters, she added. Michael Haley, the candidate's husband of 26 years, has been a constant at his wife's campaign events since she became a White House candidate. He made his first overseas deployment in January 2013, when his wife was midway through her first term as governor, and their children were age 10 and 14. He left me as a single mom governor, but were still married, Nikki Haley, who frequently mentions her status as a military wife, said of her husband during a campaign appearance a month ago in Greer, South Carolina. She went on to critique the Biden administrations chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. Returning from his 2013 deployment just before Christmas of that year, Michael Haley told the AP that his unit worked as part of an agricultural support team, helping Afghan famers turn from growing opium to growing other crops profitable enough to sustain their communities. At the time, Haleys commander, Lt. Col. Todd Shealy, acknowledged there is always some danger when an individual in the public eye serves as a soldier in a combat region. It does make him more of a target, Shealy said of Haley. But there are some particular things to do to minimize that threat, he added, pointedly not defining what they might be. ___ Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Ron DeSantis begins his first full day of presidential campaigning on Wednesday with a four-stop blitz through Iowa, trying to prioritize personally connecting with voters while proving he has the mettle to take on former President Donald Trump. The Florida governor has appearances in Sioux City, Council Bluffs, Pella and Cedar Rapids, packing in early events in the state whose caucuses kick off the GOP presidential primary voting. From there, he will head to New Hampshire on Thursday and South Carolina on Friday. At his Iowa kickoff event on Tuesday night with wife Casey, DeSantis was initially cautious while addressing an energetic crowd of roughly 500 gathered inside a suburban Des Moines church. But speaking to reporters afterward, he pushed back against Trump in a way he had not before on the national stage. He accused Trump of essentially abandoning America First principles on immigration, supporting pandemic-related lockdowns and generally having moved left on key issues. And DeSantis laughed off any criticism the former president had lobbed his way over his leadership in Florida, particularly on the state's response to COVID-19. Hell, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship. Are you kidding me? DeSantis said. DeSantis comments came a week after a stumbling Twitter announcement that raised questions about his readiness for a national campaign. Beyond the glitchy launch, DeSantis opens his campaign looking up at Trump in the polls amid persistent questions about the Florida governors ability to connect with voters in person. Despite only recently formally joining the race, DeSantis has for months been dogged by criticism that he seems halting and uncomfortable when interacting with everyday Americans despite a stage presence that can be commanding. He also tends to limit his interactions with the media to those involving reporters from friendly media outlets, largely ensuring he doesnt have to answer tough questions. Kate Romano, 60, of Indianola, Iowa, said Tuesday night that she was more impressed by DeSantis than she expected, calling him energetic and fun to hear. She voted reluctantly for Trump in 2016 and 2020, and shes interested in hearing from other candidates. DeSantis, she said, is the one whos piqued my interest right now. I liked to hear that hell stand up to Trump, she said. Kim Riesberg, 59, who attended DeSantis campaign kickoff with her husband, said she, too, voted for Trump in 2016 and 2020, but is not necessarily committed to him this time around. DeSantis is a little softer, said Riesberg, of Dallas Center, Iowa. And more appealing to the masses. Trump and his allies unleashed a fresh round of anti-DeSantis attacks on Tuesday, sharing new polls showing he's the heavy favorite in the GOP race and taking aim at DeSantis' leadership during the pandemic. At the same time, a pro-Trump super PAC was running ads on Iowa television accusing DeSantis of wanting to raise taxes, an accusation DeSantis has denied. The feud will have an opportunity to play in public as the week progresses, with both men courting voters in key states on the presidential primary calendar. Trump, who was already scheduled to be in Iowa on Thursday, added a couple of stops in the state to his schedule for Wednesday, ensuring he would overlap with DeSantis for a time. Trump will tape a radio appearance in Des Moines before attending a GOP legislative dinner. DeSantis, meanwhile, will be back in Iowa on Saturday for an event for 2024 GOP hopefuls hosted by Sen. Joni Ernst. They will be joined by declared candidates including Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C. and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, along with former Vice President Mike Pence, who is expected to launch a campaign soon. DeSantis met with evangelical pastors Tuesday ahead of his evening speech at the church, where he largely received an energetic response as he called for a revival of American greatness. The crowd was especially receptive to his focus on conservative cultural issues, particularly gender identity, which he has targeted with legislation that bans instruction or classroom discussion of LGBTQ+ issues in Florida public schools for all grades. Our country is going in the wrong direction. We can see it and we can feel it, DeSantis told the crowd in the church auditorium plastered with red, white and blue signs proclaiming a Great American Comeback. Hundreds more watched from an overflow room. In his hourlong speech, DeSantis included a handfuls of indirect jabs at Trump. He said the nation needs a disciplined, energetic president who will spit nails and fight the needed battles every single day over an eight-year period. Trump, of course, would be limited to one term. He also said Republicans would end their culture of losing only by making the 2024 election a referendum on President Joe Biden. Trump, with his big personality and legal entanglements, has essentially made every election a referendum on himself. But speaking to reporters and a small group of supporters in another room afterward, DeSantis addressed the feud head on. He noted that he avoided criticizing Trump while he was in the White House. When we disagreed, I never bashed him publicly because he was taking all this incoming from the media, the left, and even some Republicans. And the whole collusion was a total farce. And he was treated very, very poorly. And that bothered me, and it still bothers me to be honest. So, I never really would air those disagreements, DeSantis added. Well, now hes attacking me over some of these disagreements, but I think hes doing it in a way that the voters are going to side with me. There are signs the attacks could be wearing on voters who might otherwise support Trump. Jack Spoonemore, a 20-year-old of Adel, Iowa, attended DeSantis appearance to see what energy the Florida governor would bring. He said he supported Trump in 2020, but hes interested in perusing other candidates. Im not a huge fan of the shade, he said of Trumps attacks on DeSantis. ___ Fingerhut and Peoples reported from Clive, Iowa. Weissert reported from Washington. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Ron DeSantis is officially running for president, and on Tuesday landed in the early caucus state of Iowa to give voters a preview of what his campaign will look like. What that shaped up to be in Des Moines was largely what analysts had expected for months: a bid for higher office that leans into Republican culture war battles and as far away from direct confrontation with the incumbent de facto leader of the party, Donald Trump. Mr DeSantis spoke to an enthusiastic crowd that cheered enthusiastically at his vows to score major wins on those issues like LGBT+ rights and critical race theory, but less for his veiled shots at the former president, who was never mentioned by name for obvious fear of losing the audience. The governor instead heaped his criticism on Joe Biden and the administrative state which he hinted that Mr Trump had failed to rein in. He was joined by his wife, Casey, and a handful of state-level elected officials a preview of the battle that is no doubt shaping up in the state where the governor will have his first (and potentially only) real chance to prove that he can credibly compete with the former president, who has turned his fire wholly on his top rival in recent weeks amid continued polling showing the governor falling further behind him. Here are five things you should remember about Tuesday nights rally going forward into the 2024 primary season: 1. DeSantis was backed by powerful state officials In a clear coup for the DeSantis campaign, the Florida governor charged into his rally on Tuesday backed by both Iowas governor and lieutenant governor, Kim Reynolds and and Adam Gregg respectively. To be clear: in a pre-Trump political world, this would be a massive advantage for any candidate to have. Winning the endorsements of the two highest-level officials in state government, let alone at ones launch rally, is a sign of political dominance that would make any candidate other than Donald Trump think twice about even competing in the state. But Mr Trump is no ordinary opponent, and his continued star power in the GOP far outstrips that of any GOP statewide official even at home. The former presidents endorsement hasnt proven to be ironclad, seeing key defeats to opponents of Mr Trump on various sides of the political spectrum in 2022, but its fair to say that Mr Trump remains a credible competitor, even perhaps the frontrunner, to win in Iowa regardless of Ms Reynolds and Mr Greggs endorsements. 2. The governor wont touch Trump Mr DeSantis was more than eager to turn his sights on Joe Biden and the actions of his administration during the speech. Not so much for Mr Trump, who was not mentioned by name at all in the governors remarks. The desire of Mr DeSantis to avoid a confrontation with the former president might be more convincing, however, had he not indirectly referenced Mr Trump multiple times during his remarks including at one moment when he asserted that four years in office was simply insufficient to rein in Americas bureaucracy. Even George Washington, the governor charged, would be unable to do so in that amount of time. Mr DeSantiss tone notably changed when speaking to reporters after the event ended He used to say how great Florida was... Hell, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship, he noted of the former president. But that fire has yet to emerge in front of those who actually decide elections: voters. The governor therefore appears to be largely stuck in limbo; unwilling or unable to land a blow against Mr Trump when it counts, but more than cognisant of his need to do so. 3. Culture wars rise to the top The greatest targets for criticism on Tuesday were not Mr Biden or his team in the White House at all. Mr DeSantis reserved his harshest tone for so-called woke ideologies such as support for LGBT+ rights among public officials and private businesses. He vowed to purge any teachings he deemed remotely inappropriate for children from schools, and pledged to do the same to the military and other federal agencies if elected president. This is Mr DeSantiss true strategy: master the issues that make GOP voters the angriest, and bet that it will propel him not just through a primary race against Donald Trump but to the White House against Joe Biden as well. The governor argued that keeping the attention on these issues and presenting a positive alternative to Mr Bidens vision for America would be their ticket to a victory. 4. Pressure against Republicans on the debt ceiling After Donald Trump came out and said that Republicans in Congress should do a default unless they score significant concessions from Democrats in legislation to raise the debt ceiling this week, Mr DeSantis upped the ante further and declared on Tuesday that Republicans should oppose the idea entirely. He railed at the idea of raising Americas debt ceiling by $4 trillion and warned that the GOPs existing cuts to spending secured in a Saturday-night deal between Joe Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy were not enough America would still be spiralling towards bankruptcy, he asserted. Expect that to raise the stakes for hardline conservatives in Washington this week as Mr McCarthy hopes to whip as many votes as possible in his caucus to support the bill aimed at averting a default on the USs loans. 5. Leaning on parents in the battle for suburbia One last interesting theme that Mr DeSantiss rally touched on multiple times was the idea of families and parents having sovereignty over their kids, their local schools, and other entities. It was hardly a surprising point for the Florida governor to tout, given his signing into law several bills affecting the teachings allowed in schools in the Sunshine State which have been decried by the NAACP and other organisations. But it also played into another larger dynamic that has been playing out across the country for several years. The governors repeated statements of support for parents and his efforts to draw support from conservative-aligned education activists are part of the greater GOPs response to a trend that quickened sharply under Donald Trumps presidency: the blue-ing of Americas suburbs, which have trended steadily Democratic in recent years while the party simultaneously lost its grip on blue collar voters in the Rust Belt and other areas. His strategy mirrors the one pursued by Virginias Glenn Youngkin in 2021, which led to Mr Youngkin beating out former Gov Terry McCaulife and becoming the first Republican to win a statewide election in that purple state since 2009. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Tara Reade, who accused Joe Biden of sexually assaulting her in 1993, has defected to Russia. The former Senate aide appeared in a bombshell interview on Russian state TV on Tuesday alongside accused Kremlin spy Maria Butina and said she was feeling at home in Moscow. Ms Reade, 59, who worked in Mr Bidens office decades ago, said she made the very difficult decision to move to the Russian capital because she no longer felt safe in the US. I am still kind of in a daze a bit but I feel very good. I feel very surrounded by protection and safety, she said. And I just really so appreciate Maria [Butina] and everyone whos been giving me that at a time when its been very difficult to know if I am safe or not. You have US and European citizens looking for safe haven here. And luckily, the Kremlin is accommodating. So were lucky, she was quoted as saying by state-owned news agency Sputnik. Ms Reade previously accused Mr Biden of sexually assaulting her in 1993 when she was a staff assistant and had called for him to drop out of the 2020 presidential race. She worked as Mr Bidens aide in 1993. There have also been some media reports about inconsistencies in her allegations against Mr Biden. Ms Reades educational background had been called into question years ago. The president had previously denied the sexual assault allegations against him. To my Russian brothers and sisters, I am sorry right now that American elites are choosing to have such an aggressive stance, she said in the interview. Just know that most American citizens do want to be friends and hope that we can have unity again. I am enjoying my time in Moscow, and I feel very at home, she said. I just didnt want to walk home and walk into a cage or be killed, which is basically my two choices, she added. She also said she took her time to decide for herself. Im not an impulsive person. I really take my time and sort of analyse data points. And from what I could see based on the cases and based on what was happening and sort of the push for them to not want me to testify, I felt that while [the 2024] election is gearing up and theres so much at stake, Im almost better off here and just being safe. My dream is to live in both places, but it may be that I only live in this place and thats OK, she added. In 2020, a high-profile lawyer of the #MeToo era, Douglas H Wigdor, had dropped Ms Reade as a client. Close Related: The competition squaring up to Donald Trump Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Donald Trump is facing criticism from his rivals for the Republican presidential nomination after congratulating North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on his country being admitted to the World Health Organisations Executive Board. Reacting at a campaign appearance in Iowa, Florida governor Ron DeSantis said: I was surprised to see that. I mean, one, Kim Jong-un is a murderous dictator. Nikki Haley, Mr Trumps former ambassador to the UN, responded equally strongly during a CNN town hall event, remarking: Kim Jong-un is a thug. I dont think we should congratulate dictators. The former South Carolina governor, the only woman in the race, also took her competitors to task over their comments on Russias invasion of Ukraine, saying: For them to sit there and say that this is a territorial dispute thats just not the case, or to say that we should stay neutral. Its in the best interest of our national security for Ukraine to win. Mr Trump continues to dominate the field among potential Republican primary voters with 49 per cent of support, according to the latest Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll. Mr DeSantis is next with 19 per cent and Ms Haley way behind on 4 per cent. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Federal prosecutors have reportedly obtained a recording of former president Donald Trump discussing classified documents he kept at his private residences long after his term expired in January 2021. According to CNN, the audiotape of Mr Trump was created during the summer of 2021, approximately six months after the ex-president had left office. It reportedly captures a discussion during which Mr Trump was reacting to the publication of a story in The New Yorker regarding how Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley took actions to ensure the outgoing president issued no illegal orders. In the New Yorker article, journalist Susan Glasser reported that Mr Milley was concerned that Mr Trump might set in motion a full-scale conflict that was not justified by ordering military action against Iran. The ex-president was reportedly recorded as he waved a document and said it would undermine what Mr Milley had said if he could legally show it to anyone. CNN reported that the audio recording contains the sound of paper rustling, as if Mr Trump was waving a document around. The recording also reportedly captured laughter after the ex-president noted that he was not permitted to show the document to anyone. The July 2021 meeting took place long before Mr Trumps aides sent 15 boxes of records from his Palm Beach, Florida home to the National Archives. That January 2022 transfer of documents led Archives officials to discover multiple classified documents among the records sent back from Mr Trumps residence, leading the agency to notify the Department of Justice about the discovery. The Justice Departments probe into Mr Trumps alleged unlawful retention of national defence information is being overseen by a special prosecutor, Jack Smith. Mr Smith has reportedly obtained other evidence which shows Mr Trump made efforts to obstruct the investigation by concealing documents from the government, even after he was served a grand jury subpoena compelling him to return all classified documents in his posession. The investigation is reportedly in its final stages and could result in charges against Mr Trump as soon as this summer. Close Police were scouring the remote Barragem do Arade reservoir in the Algarve, Portugal last week, around 35 miles from where the then-three-year-old went missing in 2007 while on a family holiday in Praia da Luz For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Soil from a reservoir in Portugal searched by police last month is being compared with samples from main suspect Christian Brueckners camper van, it has been reported. Detectives believe Brueckner visited the remote Barragem do Arade reservoir in Portugals Algarve region days after Madeleine disappeared. Officials now believe they can prove that Brueckners van was in the area at the time the three-year-old was abducted , sources told The Daily Mirror. The insider claimed that if the soil sample analysis reveals a positive match, police may be able to further close the net around Brueckner, 45, who has not yet been charged. Earlier, a forensics expert warned that traditional evidence will be difficult to find after 16 years have passed since Madeleine McCanns disappearance. Dan Matthews said that investigators would have searched the remote reservoir in Portugal for things that couldve stood the test of time and not been destroyed by its passage, such as clothing fragments or jewelry. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The long-running hunt for missing Madeleine McCann returned to the headlines last week during a three-day search of a Portuguese reservoir. Police combed the remote Barragem do Arade in response to what was vaguely described as certain tips about an area the prime suspect in the case, Christian Brueckner, regularly frequented between 2000 and 2017. Although police are remaining tight-lipped about the details, they said they recovered a number of items from the scene, which will now be evaluated in the coming days in the hope of shedding light on the ongoing mystery surrounding Madeleines disappearance from an Algarve holiday resort on 3 May 2007. Hans Christian Wolters, prosecutor for the city of Braunschweig, said: Whether some of the items actually relate to the Madeleine McCann case cannot yet be confirmed. Earlier this week, officers said materials collected during the search had already been sent on to Germany for analysis. At least one relevant clue was found, according to Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manha. Separately, investigators are set to widen the search again after photographs belonging to the 46-year-old Brueckner were said to have yielded further clues. Here is an overview of everything we know about the latest phase of the investigation. The location Barragem do Arade, translating at the Arade dam, lies 31 miles northeast of the Praia da Luz coastal resort from which Madeleine disappeared. It was built in 1955 and is fed by the river of the same name. The reservoir is 31 miles from the Praia da Luz holiday resort, where Madeleine went missing (Google Maps) The Barragem do Arade reservoir had been searched years before (PA) Specialist divers had previously searched the reservoir in 2008, paid for by Portuguese lawyer Marcos Aragao Correia, who claimed to have been tipped off by criminal contacts that Madeleines body was there. Two other areas near Praia da Luz could also now be searched by police, The Sun reported. The search With help from Portuguese police, and with detectives from Scotland Yard watching on, German investigators scoured the beauty spot 16 miles from Silves, near the southern coast of the country. Starting on Monday last week, investigators sealed off a mile-long peninsula jutting into the reservoir and set up tents as an operations base. They then spent three days digging with shovels, cutting back swaths of undergrowth and using rakes and pickaxes to sweep the banks of the reservoir, leaving behind piles of rubble. At the main 160 square foot excavation area, they flattened a concentrated area of woodland with heavy machinery and dug holes two feet deep. Holes dug in the ground by investigators pursuing the Madeleine McCann case (PA) Search teams at work during an operation that lasted most of the week (PA) Investigators also searched the water during the operation (PA) Using sniffer dogs to hunt the surrounding grassland for clues, detectives in a rigid-hull inflatable boat also examined the water. A no-fly zone was put in place in the skies overhead, allowing police drones to survey the region undisturbed and a track leading to the search area was cordoned off with police tape and guarded by marked vehicles from Portugals National Republican Guard. What appeared to be evidence bags were removed from the scene. The shrine Since the search was revealed, a British couple have come forward to tell The Mail on Sunday about a shrine they once found near the location seemingly dedicated to the missing girl. The retired holidaymakers, whose name were given only as Ralf and Ann, say they discovered the makeshift memorial, consisting of a photograph of the toddler surrounded by flowers and stones, around Christmas 2007. They told the newspaper they had taken photographs of it and passed them on to Portuguese detectives but never heard anything back. But days later, the memorial had disappeared, they claim. The couple say they did not think anything more of the weird incident until Brueckners emergence as a suspect three years ago. A search boat surveys the reservoir (PA) I immediately contacted the BKA [Bundeskriminalamt, or Federal Criminal Police Office] in Germany and told them what we had and I had a reply back within a few hours, Ralf said. They wanted to know everything that we had seen and then they asked me to send them the pictures and they sent a map of the reservoir, asking me to point out where the stones were. As the crow flies, it was just half a mile across the water from the picnic spot where the police were digging last week. Ann says she traveled to Wiesbaden to give a statement and showed German detectives the photographs they took of the memorial, which stood only a few minutes drive from their holiday home. Thinking about it now gives me goosebumps because when we saw where the police were searching the past few days you could see thats where the row of stones was pointing to, she said. What happens now? Investigators combing through more than 8,000 photographs belonging to Brueckner said they had provided further potentially fruitful lines of inquiry. Brueckner, who denies any connection to Madeleine, is in jail in Germany for the rape of a 72-year-old American woman two years before the three-year-old vanished. Mr Wolters said the investigators were looking for a body, as well as anything that could help the investigation, such as clothing. Madeleines parents Kate and Gerry with a photo of how she would have looked when older (AP) The probe will be continuing out of the public eye, he added. As such, Madeleines parents will have to wait several weeks to find out the results of the analysis of the materials found, as their 16-year ordeal continues. Observing another milestone date without their daughter at the beginning of May, Gerry and Kate McCann posted a poem of remembrance on their Find Madeleine website, reminding readers that she is still missing... still very much missed. The police investigation continues, and we await a breakthrough. Thank you to everyone for your support it really helps, they added. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Russia suffered a surprise attack in the early hours of Tuesday morning when as many as 30 drones zeroed in on Moscow, bringing Vladimir Putins Ukraine war to his own doorstep after 15 months of bloody conflict. The countrys defence ministry has only admitted to sighting eight drones, all of which it says were shot down, causing only minimal damage and injuring just two people. Even if that is true, the incident follows an assault on the Kremlin earlier this month and creates a problem for Mr Putin, who has so far largely been able to shield Russian citizens from the realities of the war. Life has been allowed to proceed as normal in the capital but the sight of debris hitting some of the citys most prestigious areas including the grand Soviet-era Leninsky Prospekt Avenue and the Odintsovsky District, in which the wealthy elite, including Mr Putin, have residences cannot have gone unnoticed. Residents in southwestern Moscow reported hearing loud bangs at between 2am and 3am BST on Tuesday morning, followed by the smell of petrol, while some filmed the unmanned devices being downed in smoke over the city skyline. It is, of course, obvious that this is an attack by the Kyiv regime, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. And this must be absolutely clearly understood. Kyiv has itself been under siege from drone strikes by the aggressor in recent days, but Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak denied his side was behind the attack, adding drolly: Of course, we are pleased to watch and predict an increase in the number of attacks. Mr Putin is said to have been briefed early on Tuesday about the strikes and continued working in the Kremlin, later saying only that the episode was intended to intimidate and clearly a sign of terrorist activity. He will surely respond militarily, even if his initial instinct is to downplay the extent of the damage. Writing on Telegram, Russian political analyst Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said the presidents eerie calm was about projecting the impression that he isnt afraid because his control is built on the idea that has been voiced more than once [that Russians are] a patient people who will understand everything and endure everything. Mr Putin has so far left much of the sabre-rattling following the attack to others, such as lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein, who warned his countrymen: The sabotage and terrorist attacks of Ukraine will only increase. It is necessary to radically strengthen defence and security measures, especially in terms of countering drones. Another politician, Andrei Kartapolov, told local media the attack was a Ukrainian endeavour designed to create a wave of panic. Aftermath of Moscow drone attack (Telegram) Speaking to The Independent, Tim White, a Ukraine expert and journalist, commented: Putins only response is violence, weve seen it time and time again. The problem is how much of his arsenal is left? I strongly suspect there was another large shipment of drones from Iran recently, hence the big uptick in drone strikes. But I believe this tactic is primarily to locate Ukraines air defence systems, especially its Patriot [missile] systems, and get Ukraine to exhaust its own air defence missile stocks. The Kremlin is not able to manufacture missiles as quickly as it is using them. Among the residents of Moscow, the episode is likely only to entrench existing attitudes towards the war, Mr White said, noting the stranglehold exerted by state media. I think opinion in Russia will be even more anti-Western rather than anti-Putin, he said. The absolute control of the media ensures most people believe the indoctrination, wrongfully describing Ukraine as a nation of Nazis. That observation has already been borne out, with one woman, Natalia, 59, telling news agency Reuters: The Kyiv regime is already crossing all the lines. This is very sad, especially since they are directing these drones at residential buildings, at the city, at civilians, where there are no military facilities. More surprisingly, another resident told the same outlet: All of this is because of our ruler. Its no surprise its bounced back to here. As for what might happen next, Mr White is in little doubt that there will be a retaliation, perhaps targeting a region the Kremlin had expected to welcome its special military operation with open arms. My best guess is that there will be a strike on a city, masquerading as a military hit, with what we describe as plausible deniability, he said. But it wont be Kyiv, which is too well protected judging by the last months bombardment. Lviv is a target, but more at risk is likely to be Odesa or Mykolaiv in the south. These are areas that previously spoke almost exclusively Russian and Putin believed would welcome his illegal invasion. The Russian foreign ministry has already made threats to that effect, declaring: Russia reserves the right to take the harshest possible measures in response to the terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Watch as Norways King Harald welcomes Nato foreign ministers to Oslo as the military alliance hosts an informal meeting on Wednesday, 31 May. It comes as Sweden announced new anti-terrorism legislation it hopes will allow it to join the military alliance. Sweden applied for Nato membership alongside Finland after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Finland joined the military alliance in April, but Swedens bid has been hindered by Turkey. Turkey has ratified its accession but maintains that Sweden harbours members of militant groups it considers terrorists. Sweden has not previously prohibited participation in a terrorist organisation. We will do this now, Swedish foreign minister Tobias Billstrom said on Wednesday. Among those attending the informal meeting is UK foreign secretary James Cleverly, who the UK foreign office says will call for Swedens swift accession to the alliance ahead of the Vilnius Summit in July. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} British public officials are a legitimate military target because of the UKs support for Ukraine, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has warned. Mr Medvedev, deputy chairman of Vladimir Putins security council, claimed the UKs support for Kyiv amounted to an undeclared war against Russia. His comments came after Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said Ukraine had the right to project force beyond its borders into Russia to resist Mr Putins invasion. Dmitry Medvedev claimed the UKs support for Kyiv amounted to an undeclared war against Russia (PA Archive) The Ukrainian authorities have denied launching the drone attack which hit Moscow on Tuesday, but there has been an escalation in incidents within Russia either by Kyivs military or local groups opposed to the war. In response to the Foreign Secretary, Mr Medvedev said: The goofy officials of the UK, our eternal enemy, should remember that within the framework of the universally accepted international law which regulates modern warfare, including the Hague and Geneva Conventions with their additional protocols, their state can also be qualified as being at war. Today, the UK acts as Ukraines ally, providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto, is leading an undeclared war against Russia, he continued. That being the case, any of its public officials (either military, or civil, who facilitate the war) can be considered as a legitimate military target. UK defence officials believe the incursions into Russia are causing the redeployment of Moscows forces. The intelligence briefing from the Ministry of Defence said: Since the start of May 2023, Russia has increasingly ceded the initiative in the conflict and is reacting to Ukrainian action rather than actively progressing towards its own war aims. During May 2023, Russia has launched 20 nights of one-way-attack uncrewed aerial vehicle and cruise missile attacks deep inside Ukraine. Russia has had little success in its likely aims of neutralising Ukraines improved air defences and destroying Ukrainian counter-attack forces. On the ground, it has redeployed security forces to react to partisan attacks inside western Russia. Close Moscow drone attack: Buildings damaged in wake of suspected strike For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} There has been a significant escalation in fighting around the frontlines in eastern Ukraine with Russia claiming to have repelled a significant attack by Kyivs forces around Donetsk. A Ukrainian counteroffensive has been long anticpated, as it seeks to rip back control of territory taken by Russia in the countrys south and east. And there has been a notable increase in military activity in recent days. Russias Defence Ministry has now claimed to have repelled a major offensive in the Donetsk region and to have killed hundreds of Ukrainian troops. It also shared a video claiming to show several Ukrainian armoured vehicles in a field blowing up after being hit. Officials in Kyiv have not commented on the claims and have emphasised the need for secrecy around its attack plans. Officials and military chiefs have suggested that the counteroffensive would be be preceded and accompanied by divisionary assults aimed at shaping the battlefield to its advantage, as well as sowing as much confusion in the Russian ranks as possible. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Watch as judges at The Hague hand down their final ruling in the long-running war crimes trial of the former head of Serbia's state security service. In 2021, Jovan Stanisic and his subordinate Franko "Frenki" Simatovic were each sentenced to 12 years in prison following a retrial. The pair were imprisoned for aiding and abetting crimes committed by a Serb unit in the Bosanski Samac area of Bosnia in 1992. Today's judgement comes in the final case before the UN tribunal in The Hague dating from the Balkan wars that began with the break up of the former Yugoslavia; it has dragged on for nearly 20 years. Both Stanisic and Simatovic have appealed their convictions and sentences for murder, crimes against humanity, and other offences during the 1992-1995 war, and requested acquittal. Sign up to our free weekly IndyTech newsletter delivered straight to your inbox Sign up to our free IndyTech newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the IndyTech email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A vast plume has been seen coming out Enceladus, one of Saturns moons. The satellite is one of the best hopes for finding life outside our own planet. It has salty water and other conditions that leave scientists to believe that it could support alien life. Now the James Webb Space Telescope has watched a vast plume being ejected out of the planet. It found that the water shooting out of the planet is more than 20 times the size of the moon itself. Researchers already knew that jets of water were spurting out of Enceladus. But the vast size of the one found by Webb led researchers to wonder whether they had made a mistake. In this image, NASAs James Webb Space Telescope shows a water vapor plume jetting from the southern pole of Saturns moon Enceladus, extending out 20 times the size of the moon itself. The inset, an image from the Cassini orbiter, emphasizes how small Enceladus appears in the Webb image compared to the water plume. (NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, and G. Villanueva (NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center). Image Processing: A. Pagan (STScI)) When I was looking at the data, at first, I was thinking I had to be wrong. It was just so shocking to detect a water plume more than 20 times the size of the moon, said lead author Geronimo Villanueva of NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. The water plume extends far beyond its release region at the southern pole. It wasnt only the scale of the plume that was shocking in the data, however. Researchers also found that the amount of water gushing out is surprisingly large: some 79 gallons spurt out each second, enough to fill an olympic swimming pool in a couple of hours. Scientists have already studied Enceladus in depth, in part because of the hope it presents for finding alien life. But most of those observations were conducted by the Cassini spacecraft, which flew around Saturn and its surrounding system, including taking a trip through the jets themselves. But the Webb telescope offers another, different look at Enceladus and other objects within our solar system, combining a general view with high sensitivity to give new insights into the moon and its plumes. The orbit of Enceladus around Saturn is relatively quick, just 33 hours. As it whips around Saturn, the moon and its jets are basically spitting off water, leaving a halo, almost like a donut, in its wake, said Villanueva. In the Webb observations, not only was the plume huge, but there was just water absolutely everywhere. Over time, researchers hope to keep watching Enceladus, with a view to learning more about how the jets and the water they are formed out of changes on the moon. Right now, Webb provides a unique way to directly measure how water evolves and changes over time across Enceladus immense plume, and as we see here, we will even make new discoveries and learn more about the composition of the underlying ocean, said co-author Stefanie Milam, from NASA Goddard. Because of Webbs wavelength coverage and sensitivity, and what weve learned from previous missions, we have an entire new window of opportunity in front of us. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} An electric car has driven nearly 2,000km (1,250 miles) without stopping to charge as part of a demonstration of an electric road that wirelessly charges vehicles as they drive. Israeli startup Electreon claims the achievement is a new world record for the longest time and distance ever driven non-stop by a passenger electric vehicle (EV), taking just over 100 hours to cover 1,942 kilometres. The stunt was completed using a specially adapted Toyota RAV4, which drove in circles around a track fitted with Electreons Wireless Electric Road technology. The startup claims its tech can solve some of the fundamental challenges facing widespread EV adoption, including range anxiety, slow charge times and battery size. The objective of this 100-hour non-stop driving rally was to demonstrate the unlimited technical potential of Wireless Electric Road technology to power EVs to drive indefinitely with a minimal battery, said Reuven Rivlin, Electreons honorary president. This is yet another clear signal that our Wireless Electric Road technology is ready for large-scale commercial projects globally. The five-day drive involved 56 different drivers, with the vehicle only pausing momentarily to switch between drivers. Electreon plans to develop its wireless charging technology for vehicles alongside Toyota, having signed an agreement with the Japanese automotive giant in March. This partnership will make wireless charging accessible to a diverse and wide range of drivers, and will demonstrate the many benefits of wireless charging as a cost-effective, clean solution for charging EVs, as well as a catalyst in reducing EVs carbon footprint, Electreon chief executive Oren Ezer said at the time. Top-of-the-range electric vehicles in production currently have a range of just over 500km, though some prototypes have already passed the 1,000km mark. Last year, an electric Mercedes drove from Germany to the UK on a single charge, covering more than 1,200km. The Mercedes Vision EQXX broke its own efficiency record of 1,202km in a road trip from Stuttgart (Germany) to Silverstone (UK) on a single battery charge on 22 June, 2022 (Mercedes-Benz) The Vision EQXX completed the record-breaking journey in just 15 hours, using a battery that has the same capacity as a Tesla Model S. The state-of-the-art is unlikely to ever go into mass production due to the costs of making it, however recent advances in battery technology could see the range of commercial electric vehicles rise significantly in the near future. A China-based battery startup announced earlier this month that it was aiming to become the first company in the world to mass produce electric vehicle batteries with a range of 1,000km thanks to an innovative lithium-manganese-iron-phosphate design. Other companies are also working on electrified roads for wireless or conductive charging, with Sweden unveiling plans to build around 3,000km of electric road by 2045. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} For many passengers, the Airbus A380 double-deck SuperJumbo is the best way to fly. Yet only 251 have been built one-sixth of the number of Boeing 747s and production ended in 2021. Yet with post-pandemic passenger demand relentlessly strong, as we make up for lost sunshine and adventures, the worlds airlines are chasing extra capacity. At the same time, some carriers including Air France and Malaysia Airlines have permanently retired their A380 fleets. (You can find a handful of these once-mighty planes at Lourdes airport in southwest France, Europes main aviation graveyard.) You can pick up a well-cared-for secondhand SuperJumbo for a fraction of its original price. A smart way to proceed? Not according to airlines such as Emirates and British Airways. They have plenty of experience filling, flying and maintaining the A380, but they have chosen not to expand their fleets on the cheap. So I was startled to see that a British start-up, Global Airlines, has actually bought a single secondhand A380. Until this week GA (as I guess it will be called) was a paper airline, long on promises but short on kit. Now it has picked up one of the earliest SuperJumbos to roll off the production line in Toulouse. The first careful owner was Singapore Airlines, which chose not to extend the lease beyond 10 years. A Portuguese airline, Hi-Fly, tried its luck for a couple of years but then the plane was parked at the European aircraft graveyard at Lourdes, while its owners, Doric Aviation, waited for a miracle. Lo and behold, the travel gods have smiled on the 16-year-old jet. GAs chief executive and founder, James Asquith, said: The purchase of our first aircraft demonstrates that we are well on the way to launching Global. The next step is to overhaul and refit the aircraft to our high specification, providing our customers with the best experience in the sky today. The airlines initial routes are said to be from London Gatwick to New York and Los Angeles. I call it Son of Skytrain. Laker Airways first UK-US routes were from Gatwick to JFK and LAX, in 1977. The Skytrain concept was the work of Sir Freddie Laker, seeking to democratise flying, using big planes to cut fares across the Atlantic. At the time, the incumbent airlines maintained a cosy, high-fare regime. Laker undermined that and, within five years, had been forced out of business as rivals cut fares. Global Airlines, we are told, will transport passengers back to the Golden Age of Air Travel. Sounds compelling? Well, I am all in favour of innovation in aviation, but to me it sounds curious. The total number of regular scheduled flights using the A380 on the worlds leading intercontinental air route, London Heathrow to New York JFK, is zero. Before the Covid crisis, Norwegian chartered the very same A380 from Hi-Fly for Gatwick-JFK flights, with little success. As Rhys Jones of the frequent-flyer website Head for Points says: This is a route where frequency multiple flights a day is one of the most important factors to pick up lucrative business passengers, who want to travel at convenient times rather than be chained to a single daily flight. British Airways operates a total of 11 daily flights to New York airports across Heathrow and Gatwick, giving passengers a choice of departures. The same reason passengers love the A380 for its vast size is also the planes main drawback. It is a massive aircraft to park, fuel and fill. Selling the 471 seats that GA plans for its jets on a wet Wednesday in November will be a challenge, especially as the airline will not have the connecting traffic on which all the incumbent airlines depend. Rhys Jones says: Conventional wisdom actually suggests that going smaller as JetBlue is doing with the A321LR aircraft is the next big revolution in passenger aviation. With increasingly long legs, these aircraft can now operate transatlantic flights at a fraction of the cost of larger aircraft. I wish Global Airlines well, but I fear the operation will simply burn through tens of millions of investors funds without getting off the ground. I hope I am wrong. Listen to Simon Calders latest podcast on the A380 here. Davenport residents have demanded rescue teams keep searching collapsed building for survivors as the threat of demolition looms. More than 36 hours after the rear section of a six-storey apartment complex on 324 Main Street in Iowa collapsed, Davenport mayor Mike Matson revealed that local police have been unable to locate five residents. Experts said the structure, built in the 1900s, is extremely unstable because of the layout of the building, with the rear brick part holding together much of the steel structure. Sign up to our US newsletter here. A fire broke out at a lingerie warehouse in a suburb of Paris on Tuesday 30 May, officials said. Footage shared by Twitter user @Kim_Hoefnagel shows a plume of black smoke rising from the fire, as seen from the top of the Eiffel Tower. The City of Aubervilliers, a northeastern suburb, announced road closures in the area around the lingerie warehouse while firefighters battled the blaze. According to the city, there were no casualties, but local authorities had asked residents to keep their windows shut as the smoke billowed. Nato will deploy 700 more troops to Kosovo as 30 of its international peacekeepers were injured during clashes with ethnic Serbs, secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg has said. On Monday, ethnic Serbs protested in Zvecan, 45km (28 miles) north of the capital, Pristina, trying to take over the offices of the municipality where ethnic Albanian mayors took up posts last week. Tensions between Kosovo and Serbia have been ongoing for decades; Belgrade refuses to acknowledge Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence. Click here to sign up for our newsletters. North Korea has launched a space vehicle, after announcing plans to put its first military spy satellite into orbit, prompting emergency alerts and brief evacuation warnings in parts of South Korea and Japan. North Korea said this satellite was aimed to boost monitoring of US activities. It was really scary because the audio warning was so loud yet barely intelligible a British teacher living in Seoul told The Independent. In my 7 years living in Korea, this is the only time weve ever been ordered to prepare to evacuate. They went onto say. Sign up for our newsletters. A cigar smoked by Sir Winston Churchill is predicted to fetch hundreds of pounds when it goes up for auction in June. The wartime leader gave a half-smoked cigar to Hugh Stonehewer-Bird, consul general in Rabat, Morocco, after attending a dinner party in 1944. Mr Stonehewer-Bird kept the cigar in a glass jar until his death in 1973. His family are now selling the piece of memorabilia after 50 years of looking after it. It will be auctioned with Derbyshire-based Hansons Auctioneers on June 16 with a guide price of 600 to 900. Click here to sign up for our newsletters. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} They are 22 words that could terrify those who read them, as brutal in their simplicity as they are general in their meaning: Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war. That is the statement from San Francisco-based non-profit the Center for AI Safety, signed by chief executives from Google DeepMind and ChatGPT creators OpenAI, along with other major figures in artificial intelligence research. The fact that the statement has been signed by so many leading AI researchers and companies means that it should be heeded. But it also means that it should be robustly examined: why are they saying this, and why now? The answer might take some of the terror away (though not all of it). Writing a statement like this functions as something like a reverse marketing campaign: our products are so powerful and so new, it says, that they could wipe out the world. Most tech products just promise to change our life; these ones could end it. And so what looks like a statement about danger is also one that highlights just how much Google, OpenAI and more think they have to offer. Warning that AI could be as terrible as pandemics also has the peculiar effect of making the dangers of artificial intelligence seem as if they just arise naturally in the world, like the mutation of a virus. But every dangerous AI is the product of intentional choices by its developers and in most cases, by the companies that have signed the new statement. Who is the statement for? Who are these companies talking to? After all, they are the ones who are creating the products that might extinguish life on Earth. It reads a little like being hectored by a burglar about your houses locks not being good enough. None of this is to say that the warning is untrue, or shouldn't be heeded; the danger is very real indeed. But it does mean that we should ask a few more questions of those warning us about it, especially when they are, conveniently, the companies that created this ostensibly apocalyptic tech in the first place. AI doesnt feel so world-destroying yet. The statements doomy words might come as some surprise to those who have used the more accessible AI systems, such as ChatGPT. Conversations with that chatbot and others can be funny, surprising, delightful and sometimes scary but its hard to see how what is mostly prattle and babble from a smart but stupid chatbot could destroy the world. They also might come as a surprise to those who have read about the many, very important ways in which AI is already being used to help save us, not kill us. Only last week, scientists announced that they had used artificial intelligence to find a new antibiotic that could kill off superbugs, and that is just the beginning. By focusing on the risk of extinction and the societal-scale risk posed by AI, however, its proponents are able to shift the focus away from both the weaknesses of actually existing AI and the ethical questions that surround it. The intensity of the statement, the reference to nuclear war and pandemics, makes it feel like we are at a point equivalent to cowering in our bomb shelters or in lockdown. They say there are no atheists in foxholes; we might also say there are no ethicists in fallout shelters. If AI is akin to nuclear war, though, we are closer to the formation of the Manhattan Project than we are to the Cold War. We dont need to be hunkering down as if the danger is here and there is nothing we can do about it but mitigate it. Theres still time to decide what this technology looks like, how powerful it is, and who will be at the sharp end of that power. Statements like this are a reflection of the fact that the systems we have today are a long way from those that we might have tomorrow: the work going on at the companies who warned us about these issues is vast, and could be much more transformative than chatting with a robot. It is all happening in secret, and shrouded in both mystery and marketing buzz, but what we can discern is that we might only be a few years away from systems that are both more powerful and more sinister. Already, the world is struggling to differentiate between fake images and real ones; soon, developments in AI could make it very difficult to find the difference between fake people and real ones. At least according to some in the industry, AI is set to develop at such a pace that it might only be a few years before those warnings are less abstractly worrying and more concretely terrifying. The statement is correct in identifying those risks, and urging work to avoid them. But it is more than a little helpful to the companies that signed it in making those risks seem inevitable and naturally occurring, as if they are not choosing to build and profit from the technology they are so worried about. It is those companies, not artificial intelligence, that have the power to decide what that future looks like and whether it will include our extinction. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Nobody should be surprised at the rage House conservatives feel after the White House and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced their deal to raise the debt limit. The debt limit was always going to be a massive hurdle for Mr McCarthy, who made a number of concessions back in January to secure the speakers gavel. Any potential deal, no matter how conservative, would inevitably anger the members of his conference who initially opposed him. That anger was palpable during a press conference for the House Freedom Caucus, the group of hellraisers that has historically poked House Republican leadership and usually succeeded in either pummeling them into submission or outright making a House speaker quit. Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ), one of the initial opponents of Mr McCarthy, told me the deal reminded him of why he opposed Mr McCarthy as speaker in the first place. Historically, when he was been in leadership for 13 years, it was not uncommon for him to be the point man to go negotiate a spending cap deal with the Democrats, he said. Representative Bob Good (R-VA), one of Mr McCarthys most vehement critics, called it a surrender. It is a failure of leadership for us to surrender all the leverage and all the strength that we had with the majority House, he said. Of course, the negotiations during the speaker fight gave conservatives a tool they could use if they want: the motion to vacate the chair, which is essentially when the House can hold a no confidence vote in the speaker. In January, Mr McCarthy and House GOP leadership agreed to allow for any single member to file a motion to vacate, a break from past tradition. Motions to vacate never directly lead to a speaker being voted out of office, but most put a target on a speakers back and significantly weaken them, as was the case when then Freedom Caucus member and future Trump White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows filed a motion to vacate the chair and set the stage for John Boehners exit. As a result, Mr McCarthy has lived with that dagger over his head since the moment he assumed the speakership. While he deftly navigated the negotiations and ran circles around the Biden administration by framing the narrative around the debt limit to the point he essentially forced the White House to the negotiating table, he also knew that any member, including the holdouts during the speaker fight, could file a motion to vacate and put an end to his career. While many have speculated whether someone like Rep Matt Gaetz (R-FL) or Lauren Boebert (R-CO) would be the one to publicly execute him, their doing so would have little impact since most Republicans would see it as showboating. A motion to vacate would always have to come from someone who agreed to make Mr McCarthy speaker but felt betrayed by the deal. But so far, despite all of the barking, as Olivia Beavers at Politico reported, so far only Rep Dan Bishop (R-NC) has openly floated the idea of filing a motion to vacate in response to the debt limit deal. It should be noted that hardliners like Mr Bishop, who flipped his vote from initially opposing Mr McCarthy to supporting him in January, arent the only Republicans angry about the deal. Reps Nancy Mace (R-SC) and Wesley Hunt (R-TX), both announced they opposed the deal. Both of them supported Mr McCarthys bid for speaker from the beginning, with Mr Hunt returning to Washington after his son was born prematurely to ensure Mr McCarthy had enough votes. But so far, even the most hardline members have not come out to support filing a motion to vacate. I think this bill indicates exactly why I have concerns about him being the speaker and so well continue to focus on this bill, Mr Biggs told me. Similarly, Rep Scott Perry (R-PA), the chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, dodged when he was asked at a press conference. I'll let each member speak for themselves. But for me, I'm focused on defeating this bill, he said. That might be Mr McCarthys saving grace: Throughout the speakers fight, as protracted as it was, his opponents never could cobble together a feasible alternative, which meant their saber-rattling only delayed the inevitable. Similarly, if hardline conservatives dont have the guts to actually use the loaded revolver that Mr McCarthy handed them in exchange for the speakers gavel, he might survive just yet. The High Court will decide on Wednesday to either wind up or appoint an examiner to two Russian State-owned aircraft and shipping leasing firms GTLK Europe DAC and GTLK Europe Captial DAC which are registered in Ireland. Mr Justice Conor Dignam said he would give his decision after considering petitions from several creditors of the company to have the two firms wound up, in what would be among the largest liquidations in the history of the State. The judge also heard submissions from the creditors lawyers as to why the firms application to be granted the protection of the courts from their creditors as part of an examinership process should be dismissed. The hearing of the petitions proceeded after lawyers for the companies were allowed by the judge to come off record. The petition was not formally withdrawn. The application to wind up the firms, which are worth over 4.11bn, has been brought on the grounds that they are insolvent and unable to pay their debts. The four creditors, represented by barrister Kelley Smith SC, who is instructed by William Fry Solicitors, are Trinity investments DAC and associated entity Allestor Europe Multi Asset Portfolio, Ben Oldman Special Situations Fund LP and Sona Credit Master Fund Limited. Ms Smith said that the application for examinership was an abuse of process, and that the court should not appoint an examiner given the staggering lack of financial information provided by the companies. Counsel said her clients are owed 162.5m and that debt was rising. There were question marks over the location and state of GTLK assets, which are mainly commercial airliners and ships, she said. Questions also remain about a purported decree issued last week, where the Russian state purportedly agreed to cover $1.5bn (1.4bn) of debts and what effect they would have, if any. The four creditors want Damien Murran and Julian Moroney of Teneo Restructuring Ireland appointed joint liquidators. On Tuesday the judge said he was satisfied to make orders allowing lawyers for the companies to come off record and cease to represent the two firms. The firms had been represented by Conways Solicitors in both the examinership and the winding-up proceedings. All of the lawyers representing the two companies said they wished to resign from the case as the relationship between them and the clients had completely broken down including because the companies had started parallel proceedings in the UK without informing their Irish lawyers. Mr Justice Dignam said the companies were aware that the lawyers were coming off record and had been given an opportunity to make representations to the court. The judge noted that nobody from the two companies appeared in court, and he was satisfied to proceed with the hearing of the petitions. The situation was unusual, and far from satisfactory, however the situation was all of the companies own making, the judge added. Leading construction company Mac Interiors is in discussions with potential investors as it explores strategic options amid a restructuring of the businesss debts. The firm, which entered examinership after a late application to the High Court, is understood to be trading normally with workers on site and key relationships intact, despite seeking protection from creditors. Insolvency practitioner Kieran Wallace of Interpath Advisory was appointed interim examiner and will now seek to put together a scheme of arrangement with Macs creditors after a series of financial hits in the last year left it insolvent. Chief executive and founder Paul McKenna had sought fresh outside investment to help deal with the companys financial problems. It is understood those talks are still ongoing while the examinership process gets underway. However, the ultimate shape of the company, which includes businesses in Ireland and the UK, remains unclear at this stage. A spokesperson for Mac declined to comment. Mac, which specialises in the construction of office interiors for blue-chip clients such as Microsoft, Ryanair and AIB, had been optimistic about its financial outlook as recently as late 2021. In an end-year statement, the company said it had a 120m pipeline of forward business and expected all divisions to return to profitability in 2022 after two tough years of Covid lockdowns. It also said it was set to exceed targets out to 2023. But Mac told the High Court that it had a 9m deficit after sustaining significant losses on a UK job known as the Liverpool project. That project involved an intra-company transfer of 14m to pay subcontractors that is unlikely to be recoverable. The company also said it had not been able to bounce back from losses sustained during the pandemic period, when projects stalled as workers were kept off-site. During that time, Mac racked up 11m in warehoused tax debts with Revenue and his since accumulated another 200,000 in unpaid Vat. Mac traded profitably for two decades and has taken steps, such as slashing its workforce and cutting overheads, to restore its finances, but rising costs have made this more difficult. Finance director Brian McArdle, who was hired from Northern Ireland firm First Derivatives in September 2021, took a career break from the business last October for health and well-being, according to his LinkedIn profile. The next High Court hearing is June 14. New Look has closed eight UK stores. Photo: John Keeble/Getty Images Fashion retailer New Look has no plans to close any stores in Ireland at present despite a move to streamline its operations in the UK. In the UK, New Look is expected to shut a store in Bangor in Wales next month, while a further store in Stockton-on-Tees will close in July. This follows the closure of eight stores across the UK so far in 2023, including two in Birmingham. This is the latest cost-cutting measure from New Look in recent months. In March, the company said it would look to cut 70 jobs from its head offices in London and Weymouth. It also revealed a month earlier that it would be ending the night shift at its warehouse in North Staffordshire, placing over 500 jobs at risk. New Look is continuing to open stores, with four opened recently. This includes one in Ireland. Last month, it opened a new store in Edward Square in Galway city. This followed the closure of its previous location in the citys Eyre Square Shopping Centre last year. New Look has around 430 outlets across the UK and Ireland and employs roughly 10,000 people. The chain is now working with advisers at Deloitte on refinancing 100m of debt that is due to mature next year, Sky News has reported. Sources told Sky News that an outcome on the refinancing plans for the fashion retailer is expected in the coming months. The retailer has completed two restructurings following spells of difficulty in recent years, the latest of which concluded just two years ago. In its most recently published accounts for the financial year ending March 26 last year, the company recorded revenues of 839.6m. This marked an increase of 54.9pc from its previous financial year. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation rose to 25.2m from the 34.5m loss reported the prior year. People on variable rates or in final two years of fixed rate at risk of being forced to pay new rate of 6pc Homeowners previously unaffected by European Central Bank rate increases have been warned that this could soon change. Photo: Getty Images Thousands of mortgage holders have been warned that they risk sleep-walking into massive rate hikes that will cost them dearly. Around 200,000 mortgage holders are at risk of being forced to pay mortgage rates of 6pc-plus if they do not act soon, according to adviser Mark Coan of online finance guide MoneySherpa.ie. He said more than 100,000 mortgage holders with less than two years to run on their fixed rates are exposed to big mortgage rate rises. This is also the case for 100,000 on variable rates. Mr Coan said banks were seeking to preserve their profit margins so will keep raising mortgage rates. While tracker and vulture-fund customers have borne the brunt of recent European Central Bank (ECB) rate increases, other variable and fixed-rate customers have seen little or no increases to date, he said. Now though, these customers risk sleep-walking into rates ranging from 5.6pc to 6.1pc if they dont act to fix their mortgage rates long term. Non-bank lenders Finance Ireland and ICS Mortgages have variable rates that are now above 6pc. But Avant Money is offering rates from 3.95pc fixed for the life of the mortgage on its One Mortgage product. The MoneySherpa.ie boss said banks in this country have come under pressure in recent weeks to increase the rates they offer to savers. He said this was particularly the case with Trade Republic offering overnight rates of 2pc and Raisin.ie offering up to 3.6pc on one-year rates. However, good news for savers is likely to mean bad news for borrowers as the banks look to preserve their profits on the difference they charge between both, said Mr Coan. Increases of variable rates are likely to track those seen across Europe. Up to now, variable rates in this country have not increased, with the exception of AIB, as they are seen as high relative to other rates. He said in the Eurozone the average mortgage rate has moved from 1.8pc to 3.48pc in the last year. This would take variable rates in this country to around 5pc. And the ECB rate is expected to rise twice this summer, Central Bank of Ireland governor Gabriel Makhlouf has indicated. Two rate rises totalling 0.5 percentage points mean variable rates here could be around 5.5pc, Mr Coan said. Variable rates increasing to 5.5pc will add 111 a month to the average mortgage repayment and more than 17,000 in extra interest across the whole mortgage term if rates stay put, he said. People who are on a variable rate or a fixed rate with less than two years left to run may still be able to act to avoid these hikes by switching their mortgage and fixing their rates long term on the best mortgage rate. Fixed rates of up to 30 years are available at 3.95pc from Avant Money. This would mean the 140-a-month hike in repayments would be cut to an increase of just 25 a month. Mr Coan said: The big Irish banks have some of the highest fixed rates on the market right now, so dont just fix with your current bank. He said those on variables and those coming to the end of a fixed rate should check with a mortgage broker. They can compare all the lenders rates so you have the inside track on all your options. RYANAIR boss Michael OLeary has said he doesnt believe that flights between Dublin and Cork will ever be relaunched. Earlier this week, DAA chief executive Kenny Jacobs said that the reintroduction of such a service was a strong possibility. Mr Jacobs is the former chief marketing officer at Ryanair and took up his post at the semi-state DAA in January. The DAA operates Dublin Airport and Cork Airport. An air service last operated between Dublin and Cork in 2011. Mr Jacobs told the Irish Examiner newspaper this week that hed be amazed if the route doesnt operate again at some stage. But Mr OLeary insisted that the relatively short driving time between Dublin and Cork means an air service wont be reintroduced. I dont think Cork-Dublin flights will return, he said, speaking at a press conference in Brussels on Wednesday morning. The motorway journey is now less than two hours, train services are less than two hours, he added. We were the main airline operating Cork-Dublin flights. We had three flights a day with 97pc load factors. Once they finished the motorway, the load factor went from 97pc to 23pc, according to Mr OLeary. The Ryanair group chief executive also claimed that allowing Dublin Airport to charge higher passenger charges would be rewarding an incompetent semi-state monopoly. Mr OLeary was in Brussels on Wednesday to deliver almost 1.2 million signatures from flyers around Europe to the European Commission calling on it to act over the impact of air traffic control strikes in France. While in many other countries such as Spain and Italy, overflights transiting through their airspace during strike action are protected from being diverted or grounded, there is no such blanket protection in France. The Ryanair petition calls on the EU Commission to take immediate action and protect European citizens freedom of movement and overflights during French ATC strikes. Mr OLeary said that while people in France and other mainland European countries have alternatives such as trains to travel across the continent during air traffic control strikes, passengers in Ireland dont. People who are stuck in Ireland cant get into Italy, people in Germany cant get to Spain, people in Portugal cant get to Poland and so on, he said. Dozens of strikes have already been held in France this year. Over 350 signatories say the risks are equal to those associated with pandemics or nuclear war Top artificial intelligence executives including OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman joined experts and professors on Tuesday in raising the "risk of extinction from AI", which they urged policymakers to equate on a par with risks posed by pandemics and nuclear war. "Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war," more than 350 signatories wrote in a letter published by the non-profit Center for AI Safety (CAIS). As well as Mr Altman, they included the CEOs of AI firms DeepMind and Anthropic, and executives from Microsoft and Google. Also among them were Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio two of the three so-called "godfathers of AI" who received the 2018 Turing Award for their work on deep learning and professors from institutions ranging from Harvard to China's Tsinghua University. A statement from CAIS singled out Meta, where the third godfather of AI, Yann LeCun, works, for not signing the letter. The letter coincided with the US-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting in Sweden where politicians are expected to talk about regulating AI. Elon Musk and a group of AI experts and industry executives were the first ones to cite potential risks to society in April. Recent developments in AI have created tools supporters say can be used in applications from medical diagnostics to writing legal briefs, but this has sparked fears the technology could lead to privacy violations, power misinformation campaigns, and lead to issues with "smart machines" thinking for themselves. AI pioneer Mr Hinton earlier told Reuters that AI could pose a "more urgent" threat to humanity than climate change. Last week OpenAI CEO Mr Altman referred to EU AI the first efforts to create a regulation for AI as over-regulation and threatened to leave Europe. He reversed his stance within days after criticism from politicians. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet Mr Altman on Thursday. Our critics Tony Clayton-Lea, Roisin Dwyer, Zara Hedderman and John Meagher deliver the second instalment in our definitive list of the greatest Irish albums The Irish Independents list of the top 50 Irish albums of all time is the result of voting by more than 50 musicians, producers, promoters, broadcasters, critics, publicists, podcasters and industry insiders. For details on how we put it together, read our explainer. Numbers 50-41 are here. We continue today with numbers 40-31, with the rest to be published in Independent.ie daily this week and the whole, definitive rundown in the Irish Independent Review and online on Saturday. Dogrel by Fontaines DC 40 Dogrel Fontaines DC (2019) The quintets debut opens with Grian Chatten on Big willing the overnight success that would forever change the lives of the lyricist and his post-punk cohort: My childhood was small, but Im gonna be big. Tonally, Dublin is central to the music. The greyness of the citys weather casts a shadow on the spiky arrangements as Chatten casually traverses the streets and takes the listener along for the ride. (ZH) Prosperous by Christy Moore 39 Prosperous Christy Moore (1972) Prosperous is a fascinating taste of whats to come, as future members of Planxty (Andy Irvine, Donal Lunny, Liam Og OFlynn) are present and correct. Folk songs (A Letter to Syracuse, James Connolly, The Raggle Taggle Gipsies), ballads (The Cliffs of Dooneen, Spancill Hill), and traditional (Tabhair Dom Do Lamh) deliver what all albums should: music played for the inescapable, transcendent pleasure of it. (TCL) Speak Slowly by the Stars of Heaven 38 Speak Slowly The Stars of Heaven (1988) Upon its release, the second and final album from the band dubbed Irelands answer to the Byrds climbed to No 6 in the UK indie charts. This collection is widely acclaimed as a delicately crafted timeless classic. Stephen Ryan is as skilled in creating achingly beautiful love songs (2 OClock Waltz) as infectious jangle-pop gems (such as 28 and Lights of Tetouan the latter covered by Everything But The Girl). (RD) Early in the Morning by James Vincent McMorrow 37 Early in the Morning James Vincent McMorrow (2010) The Dubliner has enjoyed a prolific and eclectic recording career, but this gorgeously honed debut is his most consistently strong album. Earning comparisons to everyone from Van Morrison to Bon Iver, its songs are, by turns, lush and delicate. McMorrows gently strummed acoustic guitar and his hushed vocals are his primary instruments. The lyrics elemental and poetic tug on the heartstrings. (JM) I am the Greatest by A House 36 I Am the Greatest A House (1990) Following the commercial failure of second album I Want Too Much, A House dusted themselves off and created uncompromising masterpiece I Am the Greatest, a cocktail of bravado, bluster, lyrical dexterity and sonic splendour. The wit and poetry of Endless Art is one of many highlights on the Edwyn Collins-produced meisterwerk, which also boasts the abrasive playfulness of I Dont Care and dulcet indie earworm Take It Easy on Me. (RD) Let the Dead Bury the Dead by Rusangano Family 35 Let the Dead Bury the Dead Rusangano Family (2016) The Shannonside outfit, comprising members from Zimbabwe, Togo and Co Clare, won the Choice Music Prize for this arresting debut. Its a rap album that blends a dizzying array of genres, including the rich polyrhythmic sounds common to GodKnows Jonas and Murli Boevis childhood in Africa. It was released in a decade where so-called new Irish musicians really started to make themselves heard. (JM) Faith and Courage by Sinead O'Connor 34 Faith and Courage Sinead OConnor (2000) On the majority of Sinead OConnors output across her 10 albums, her artistic strength has been her ability to combine vulnerability with an unshakable sense of defiance in her songwriting. She entered the new century with a dynamic offering in the form of Faith and Courage, an album that captures the sounds of the time it was recorded while presenting themes that were, as ever for OConnor, ahead of their time. (ZH) In Towers and Clouds by the Immediate 33 In Towers and Clouds The Immediate (2006) The Immediate are best-known as the outfit with which Conor OBrien plied his trade before he shot to superstardom with Villagers. Their one and only album is a splendid slice of innovative indie pop of an avant-garde hue that garnered a Choice nod and left many critics salivating. They draw from the same creative well as Talking Heads and Radiohead while remaining refreshingly inventive and original. (RD) Holding Hands with Jamie by Girl Band/Gilla Band 32 Holding Hands with Jamie Girl Band (2015) There are some acts that you cannot merely listen to but must immerse yourself in for maximum impact. Dublin-based noise-rock quartet Gilla Band (known as Girl Band when this album was released) are one such group. They consistently exhilarate audiences with their juxtaposition of claustrophobic and captivating instrumentation with frontman Dara Kielys absurdist yet charismatic lyrical sensibility. Almost a decade on, Paul and Pears For Lunch remain vibrant and visceral. (ZH) Troublegum by Therapy? 31 Troublegum Therapy? (1994) For their second major label album, the Larne trio turned to compatriots the Undertones and US alt-rock band Helmet for inspiration. The result is a commercially friendly alt-rock opus that, on release, threatened to make Andy Cairns, Fyfe Ewing and Michael McKeegan global stars. Crossover glory didnt quite come, but songs such as Screamager and Trigger Inside have long been staples of 90s hard rock. (JM) Still to come... Find out where it charted this week on Independent.ie The campaign to preserve some 22,000 acres of farmland and 690 rural homes in Kerry looks set to become the first battle in the expected war over rewetting in Ireland. Land around the River Feale has been protected from sea and river flooding by embankments and sluice gates for decades. A plan by the Office of Public Works (OPW), to install a series of pumps along the river has been in development for more than five years, and was expected to be given the green light later this year. Fears over the viability of this plan have been growing in recent months, with environmental groups such as Birdwatch Ireland and the Irish Wildlife Trust (IWT), both lodging submissions against the OPWs River Feale/Cashen Estuary Drainage Project. More than 250 local people attended a meeting in Ballyduff last week, where concerns over the new pumping scheme and future maintenance of the river were expressed. Under the 1945 Arterial Drainage Act, the OPW is legally responsible for maintaining the flood defences on the River Feale and 12,000km of river banks across the country. Pressure is mounting on the Government from environmental groups and the EU to change or possibly even repeal the act, which would likely result in the rewetting of tens of thousands of acres of farm land around the country. In its submission to the River Feale/Cashen Estuary Drainage Project, the IWT suggested that the River Feale should be used as a pilot test for rewetting in Ireland, with farmers being paid to allow for their land to be flooded. Speaking to the Farming Independent, Padraic Fogarty of the IWT described the act as hugely destructive and probably illegal. He said efforts should be made to protect homes during rewetting but that not all rural homes could be saved. We need to be clear-minded about what is coming down the track in terms of flooding. I dont think it is possible to save everyones home, especially when they are built out in the middle of a field or on floodplains, he said. Dr Edward Bolger, chairperson of the Cashen Drainage Committee, said that the local people are conscious their community has become the focus of the wider debate about rewetting. We are concerned about our scheme, but the outcome of this is going to have knock-on effects right around the country. One of the submissions even suggested that our scheme would be used as a test case, he said. A spokesperson from the OPW said a decision on the proposed scheme is expected in the second half of this year. The River Feale/Cashen Estuary Drainage Project is expected to be mentioned in a Dail debate about rewetting later this week. EU funding for a major and world-first genotyping programme for Irish cattle, has been announced by Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue. The voluntary programme, which will be available to both beef and dairy herd owners, will also be funded partly by farmers and will run over five years. It is hoped the programme will enhance the environmental sustainability, health and productivity of Irish beef and dairy herds. The programme will be based on a cost sharing model between the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the beef and dairy industry, and participating farmers. The first year of the programme in 2023, with a budget of 23 million, will be funded from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve, and the five-year programme will be notified to the European Commission under agriculture state aid rules. Genotyping from 2024 onwards will be met on a one-third cost sharing basis by the Department, industry and farmers. ICBF will administer the programme on behalf of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The programme is not open for applications yet. Full details on the application process will be available from ICBF in the coming weeks. Speaking at the launch this morning, the Minister stated said the programme was the first step in delivering on our ambition of genotyping all cattle in the country. By harnessing genetic data, the programme will empower Irish farmers to make informed breeding decisions, optimise herd management and animal welfare, and contribute towards Irelands climate action targets. I am confident that genotyping on a national scale will contribute to Irelands ambition to becoming a world leader in sustainable food systems, in line with our shared Food Vision 2030 strategy. Genotyping involves taking a tissue sample from breeding females and males and building a DNA bank of that data. When new calves are born, they are matched to their sire and dam. If carried out at national scale, genotyping would give the Irish cattle industry 100% traceability at the DNA level. The genetic data collected will be analysed to identify specific traits or characteristics that are important to farmers such as disease resistance, milk or meat production, or fertility. In addition, the information gathered will be used to develop breeding strategies aimed at improving the overall genetic merit of the herd. This voluntary genotyping programme over five years represents a significant step towards genotyping of the national bovine herd. Bale slicers will be eligible for grant aid in the new TAMS 3 scheme. The Young Farmers Capital Investment Scheme (YFCIS) has opened to applications the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue has announced. The scheme is part of the new Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS 3) which is provides funding for capital investments on farms and will be in place for five years. It continues the higher support rates for young farmers of 60% grant support. Minister McConalogue said, TAMS 3 is our biggest and strongest-funded capital investment scheme for farmers ever. It has the largest range of investments ever available. Most importantly it helps to drive some of our key ambitions in Irish agriculture which includes of course support for young farmers and generational renewal. The launch of the Young Farmers Capital Investment Scheme is crucial in support of young farmers joining the industry. "This scheme offers grant aid at the higher rate of 60% for qualifying young farmers for over 300 investment items covering Dairy, Beef, Sheep, Pig, Poultry and Tillage enterprises. These investments cover areas of animal welfare and housing, energy efficiency, and nutrient management, and will assist Young Farmers in meeting capital costs to grow their enterprises. The YFCIS is the eighth scheme to open under TAMS 3 following the successful launch of the Solar Capital Investment Scheme (SCIS), the Animal Welfare and Nutrient Storage Scheme, the Pig and Poultry Investment Scheme, the Organic Capital Investment Scheme, the Low Emission Slurry Spreading Scheme, the Dairy Equipment Scheme and the Tillage Capital Investment Scheme. Grant aid will only be paid on approved, completed, and eligible expenditure and shall be paid at the rate of 60% up to the applicable maximum investment ceiling of 90,000 per holding. Multiple applications per tranche are permissible. However, the minimum amount of investment which is eligible for approval under this Scheme is 2,000 per application. What is a Young Farmer? Young farmer in TAMS 3 means a person who is under 41 years of age at the time of submitting the application, possesses adequate occupational skills and competence, and is setting up for the first time in an agricultural holding as head of that holding. Can a Young Farmer farm with others? In the case of a Young Farmer farming with others, a declaration is required that the Young Farmer exercises effective and long-term control over the partnership or legal person in terms of decisions related to management, benefits and financial risks either solely or jointly together with other members of the partnership. What are the educational requirements? Applicants must have completed one of the educational courses listed in the scheme's Terms and Conditions, or an equivalent course on or before the date of lodgement of an application for support or, at the latest, within 36 months from the date of issue of Department approval to commence works. Where this deadline for completion of the educational requirements is not respected, grant aid will be paid at the standard rate of 40%. A suspected Islamic terrorist who fled authorities in Russia has sought asylum in Ireland. The man faces allegations of membership of a jihadist group which has been active in Syria and the North Caucasus region in Russia. The Indo Daily: Children of the Troubles My father was murdered in front of me when I was ten The census has shown a collapse in Catholicism but just one school divested itself of its religious ethos last year, the Dail has been told. And the Churchs dominance of education in Ireland cant be allowed to continue. Despite a target of freeing 400 schools from religious patronage by 2030, only 14 divestments have been achieved a rate barely above 3pc of target. Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns said people with no religion continue to have their children baptised in order to get them into a particular school. Despite the 10pc drop in adherence to the church shown by the census, this year 90pc of our private schools remain Roman Catholic, Ms Cairns said. People shouldn't be forced to go to a school with an ethos which they don't believe in, because of a shortage of multi-denominational schools, she said. But this is happening because of a failure of the school divestment programme - 400 schools were supposed to become multi-denominational by 2030. But to date, it's only 14 schools, she said. Last year, just one school divested. So the divestment programme, I think its safe to say its not working. But the near monopoly control of the Catholic Church in our primary schools is like something from another era. It can't be allowed to continue. She asked for a review of the stalled divestment drive as a matter of urgency. Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe, standing in for the Taoiseach, who is on a trip to Moldova, said that from his own experience of divestment, the reason why they don't happen, or they happen slowly, is because the school community themselves. He explained: They take time to consider the process. And they don't always meet your view that a change in patronship is appropriate. But I do believe we need to have a more diverse primary, secondary and educational system to support the needs of children from the families that the CSO report (census data on diversity) indicates. Its one of the many reasons why Im delighted to see now my own local Educate Together move into an amazing new school building, which is a sign of the support that the Government has for that really important ethos in our educational system. All parking at Dublin Airport is now sold out over the coming days, with passengers intending to travel being urged not to drive to the airport and to take alternative modes of transport buses, taxis or coaches. Holidaymakers have been warned that Dublin Airport will be extremely busy this weekend as more than 400,000 passengers travel through the busy airport over the bank holiday weekend. Passengers are being advised to arrive at their terminal two hours in advance of a short-haul flight and three hours before a long-haul flight. Earlier this week, DAA, which operates Dublin Airport, has also said that demand for carparking is extremely high and urged those who have not secured a space to use public transport where possible. A search on the portal customers can use to book parking this afternoon said that all car parking spaces were now booked out in coming days. Parking is fully booked at Dublin Airport The bank holiday is coming. Around 425,000 passengers will travel through Dublin Airport over the coming June bank holiday weekend. We look forward to welcoming all those travelling through, a DAA spokesperson said. Demand for car parking in Dublin Airport's car parks remains extremely high and anyone without an existing booking is encouraged to consider travelling to the airport via public transport, taxi or being dropped off by a friend or relative. Passengers departing from Dublin Airport over the coming weekend - and also the weeks and months ahead - are advised to arrive at their terminal two hours in advance of a short-haul flight and three hours before a long-haul flight. The operator confirmed last week, that the number of parking spaces available at Dublin Airport is still reduced by 20pc because the 6,200 spaces at the Quick Park facility are still out of action just as they were last summer, This is increasing the pressure on our own car parks, with passenger numbers now back at pre-Covid levels, daa spokesperson Graeme McQueen said. With demand for our car parks expected to remain high through the summer months, passengers are advised to book their parking as far in advance as possible. According to DAA, Dublin Airport is seeing record numbers travelling through the airport, with 9.5 million passengers passing through the airport in the first four months of this year. DAA today unveiled the first of several new food and drink outlets as part of a 15-point plan aiming to provide a better and more enjoyable travel experience for passengers. The new Lansdowne Bar + Kitchen has now opened its doors on the Arrivals floor in Terminal 1, with four more new outlets set to open over the coming weeks. Among other outlets due to open shortly are a seasonal pop-up coffee unit in Terminal 1, as well as new outlets from Irish brands including Cloudpicker Coffee Roasters, Camile Thai, and Handsome Burger. Improvements will also being made to the airports lounges, with hot food available in some, while DAA is also promising faster wifi, more seating and better transport options. It is also aiming to get 90pc of passengers through security in under 20 minutes. The Fianna Fail parliamentary party meeting tonight heard attacks on Tanaiste Micheal Martin over a consistently poor showing in the polls and his alleged failure to keep his promises. A sustained criticism came from James OConnor, the Cork East TD, who said he had taken Mr Martin around his constituency recently and pledges that were made were not progressed. But Mr Martin replied by saying his backbencher was a Jekyll and Hyde character whose mood changed from one day to the next. Mr O'Connor claimed a promise was made at a previous meeting to Jackie Cahill TD that there would be a debate on polls showing Fianna Fail at 15pc, in order to devise strategy for the local and European elections and in case of any snap general election and Mr Cahill had not heard anything further. Members of the party initially listened in silence as the most junior member of the Dail group criticised the 12-year leader of the party. Onlookers said Mr Martin became quite irate and repeatedly interrupted Mr OConnor, who persisted with his complaints. Mr OConnor then said the leader was cutting the legs from under me, as the youngest member of the parliamentary party. He added that he nearly left the parliamentary party two years ago over a broken promise to include a bypass of Killeagh/Castlemartyr in the National Development Plan (NDP). Despite guarantees given to him then to resolve the row, nothing at all had been done about it since, he said. Micheal Martin said Mr OConnor was a "Jekyll and Hyde, after the literary doctor who turned into a homicidal monster at night. One day youre having praise on me and the next day youre having a go at me over something you only recently brought to my attention. A source said of Mr Martin: He was squirrelling over in his seat because he was furious. It was big row everyone was listening, hushed, but then there were people defending the Tanaiste. They included his constituency colleague, Finance Minister Michael McGrath, who asked Mr OConnor, a Cork colleague, to calm down and be respectful. But Mr OConnor said he had the largest migrant accommodation centre in his constituency, and there were no facilities for them. The Youghal-based TD said he had taken the party leader to the place to see for himself, and had also taken him to schools and shown him a proposed site for a school. The Tanaiste had undertaken to ring the Educational Training Board (ETB) to discuss the matter, but had not done so, he said. Other promises were not met. Mr OConnor subsequently left the meeting before its end and was said by witnesses to be quite upset. He was not answering calls tonight It was a very open squabble, said one in attendance. It was quite ill-tempered, maybe, but it wasnt an out-and-out shouting match. I would say a lot of people heard Jamesie and would know instinctively that he had some basis for the axe that he decided to grind. There are people who are fed up. Another source claimed however that Mr OConnor was shouting at one point and that minister Mary Butler had joined Michael McGrath is asking him to calm down and to observe proper order. Mr OConnor, who is aged 25, said some ministers had let him down on requests. He cited an opinion poll last weekend that three quarters of people felt Ireland now had enough asylum seekers. He let rip on the Tanaiste big time," a source said. He said he brought him out to the constituency and noting he discussed with him had been resolved. Mr Martin said the visit had taken place a month ago and that there were demands on his time. He insisted he had taken steps. He was clearly annoyed. The Government has been embarrassed after an Opposition Bill to abolish the three-day waiting period for an abortion passed in the Dail tonight. A free vote on the measure, tabled by People Before Profit, had been allowed by the Coalition parties but a Government amendment failed. Another vote, on the draft legislation itself, then passed, helped by the votes of Culture Minister Catherine Martin of the Green Party and Neale Richmond, a Fine Gael junior minister. The Bill, in the name of TD Brid Smith, will likely fall at a later stage, but surmounted its second stage to move on. A senior source said there was some surprise that Government ministers backed the Bill, when committee hearings on the issue prompted by a recent review of how the existing law was working have only just begun. Earlier, Ms Smith had called on all TDs in the Dail to support her bill to amend Irelands abortion laws, and to reject a government amendment which would have stalled the passage of the bill for 12 months. She made the call after being informed that Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and Green Party TDs would have a free vote. The author of the Review, Dr. Marie O'Shea, told a Dail committee that the law needed to be changed and that a bit of courage wouldnt go amiss. Mr Smith said: In order for Irelands abortion care system to reflect the spirit of the historic repeal vote five years ago, I am calling on all TDs to support the (further) passage of my Bill. Irelands abortion system is not operating as it was envisaged and hundreds of women are still forced to travel every year for access to termination procedures. This is unacceptable and needs to change. There is no medical or legal reason why the three-day waiting period should be in Irish law. And the numbers of women travelling under fatal foetal anomaly grounds has not changed significantly since implementation of the Act. Women in this situation reported a sense of stigmatisation and being failed by their own health service, she said. Current legislation was preventing people from accessing abortion services. There is also a chill effect on doctors due to the presence of criminalisation in the legislation. This is not what people voted for in the referendum. Her Bill would amend the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018 to provide for abortion on request prior to foetal viability. It would also abolish the three-day waiting period and allow for abortion on grounds of foetal abnormality tlikely to lead to the death of the foetus either before or within a year of birth. It would decriminalise the provision of abortion in all circumstance. and allow for termination where there is a serious harm to the health of the pregnant woman. "This is a great day for the movement for choice and for women's healthcare, but it is only the start, said Ms Smith after her Bull passed by 67 votes to 64, with eight abstentions. Well done to all the people who campaigned for this amazing result. We have to keep the pressure on so that this Bill can become law. We can remove the three day waiting period and decriminalise abortion in this country. Women cannot wait anymore for modern reproductive healthcare in Ireland." MEP said it was exceptionally unfair that in Ireland the richest 1pc own 27pc of the wealth The Green Party is pushing for new compulsory EU taxes on high earners and on the sales of assets. A range of new taxes were recently proposed by a bloc of Green MEPs in the European Parliament, including Irelands Ciaran Cuffe and Grace OSullivan. The proposals would allow the EU to introduce specific directives on the collection of tax in member states that would be focused on high-net-worth individuals and companies. Ireland has long resisted interventions by Brussels in the countrys tax system but did align with EU plans to target energy companies with a windfall tax early this year. The Greens/European Free Alliance the European Parliament grouping that includes the Irish Greens put forward proposals this month on how EU budget resources are collected. This is something the party said would help fight economic inequalities. The group proposed a wealth tax for individuals and private households, a windfall/solidarity tax on companies, an EU minimum capital gains tax, and a tax for top-earned income. The Greens say the taxes would be targeted at extreme levels of wealth and wouldnt affect the general population which is struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. However, all of the proposals were voted down by other European Parliament MEPs and their groupings. Had the Greens been successful in passing their tax suggestions through the parliament, it would have then been up to the Council of the EU where all member state governments are represented to vote on the proposal. If the proposal was approved, member states would have been directed to create taxes and contribute a portion of the revenues to the EU budget. The EU currently has directives on VAT that affect the Irish Budget. Dublin MEP Ciaran Cuffe said he supported higher taxes on extreme wealth. In Ireland in 2023, the richest 1pc own 27pc of the wealth. It is exceptionally unfair that wealth is allowed to accumulate in this way while households suffer under the cost-of-living crisis, he said, We need a more progressive tax system that tackles extreme wealth effectively and helps to fight economic inequalities. I voted in favour of amendments calling for this in the European Parliament, but this was not supported by a majority. Some in the Green Party have long argued the EU should introduce compulsory environmental taxes to force member states to significantly reduce carbon emissions. Details of the Green plans for new income and asset taxes follows a week of rows between the Coalition parties over Fine Gael proposals to give taxpayers a 1,000 tax cut in Octobers Budget. The Association drew links between Nazi Germany and the La Mon bombing in 1978 A silver-plated pencil purported to have belonged to Adolf Hitler. It is believed to have been given to the former Nazi dictator by his long-term partner Eva Braun as a gift for his 52nd birthday on April 20, 1941. Photo: Bloomfield Auctions/Kelvin Boyes/PressEye/PA Wire An east Belfast auction house should remove from sale blood soaked items linked to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler, the European Jewish Association (EJA) has said. The ornate silver-plated pencil is set to go under the hammer in Belfast next week, as well as a signed portrait of the notorious dictator who led the regime responsible for the Holocaust. The pencil was a birthday present from his long-term partner Eva Braun, who died with him in a Berlin bunker at the end of World War II. An inscription along the side notes the dictators birthday, April 20, and gives the year as 1941, when he was at the height of his powers. It finishes sincerely, Eva in German. The pencil is estimated to sell for between 50,000 and 80,000, while the photograph is expected to sell for between 10,000 and 15,000. However, the chairman of the European Jewish Association, Rabbi Menachem Margolin has written to Karl Bennett, managing director of Bloomfield Auctions, asking him to withdraw the items. The rabbi drew comparisons with the Troubles, asking Mr Bennett if he would be happy to sell possessions belonging to Robert Murphy who was responsible for the 1978 La Mon restaurant bombing in which 12 people were killed. "I am writing to respectfully ask you to withdraw these items from the auction. This is not a legal appeal to you Mr Bennett, but very much a moral one, wrote Rabbi Margolin. "We simply cannot fathom how a love trinket such as an engraved pencil or a signed photograph constitutes a historical object of any inherent historical value. "In Europe today and indeed further afield, Auction houses are buying and selling to the highest bidder other items such as watches or ashtrays belonging to Hitler, Hermann Goring cutlery sets, even Wehrmacht toilet paper. "The defence from Munich to Maryland is the same, these items are of historical interest. They are anything but. A personally signed portrait of former Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler, is set to go under the hammer along with other historical items in Belfast on Tuesday June 6. Pic: Bloomfield Auctions/Kelvin Boyes/PressEye/PA Wire Rabbi Margolin said the EJA fully supported the sale of items of genuine historic interest, but said items like the Hitler-linked trinkets currently on sale were dangerous. "They create a macabre trade in items belonging to mass murderers, the motives of those buying them are unknown and may glorify the actions of the Nazis, and lastly their trade is an insult to the millions who perished, the few survivors left, and to Jews everywhere, he said. "Of course, one cannot compare, but Mr Bennett, but would you sell the pen that belonged to Robert Murphy who killed 12 and injured 30 at the LaMon Restaurant not far from you in East Belfast? , "We are repeatedly told by auction houses that Hitler sells. This may indeed be true. But what is sold and to whom is a matter of public decency and moral responsibility at the end of the day. "It is in this spirit of decency that I ask you again to withdraw the Nazi auction items, to send a message that some things particularly when so metaphorically blood soaked, should not and must not be traded. Mr Bennett had earlier in the week defended the sale of the items, saying they preserve a piece of our past and should be treated as historical objects. Bloomfield Auction House said history should not be written out of society. "Bloomfield Auctions is a specialist auction house for militaria across all centuries. All items are a part of history, and we shouldnt be writing history out of books or society, said a spokesperson. In my experience those who buy such items are legitimate collectors who have a passion for history. "We do not seek to cause hurt or distress to any one or any part of society. All items have a story and tell of a particular time in history. Both are due to appear before a sitting of Dublin District Court this morning A man and woman were arrested and charged after a large quantity of suspected cannabis was seized at Dublin Airport. Gardai said the drugs were discovered in passenger luggage from an inbound flight, on Monday afternoon. The man was arrested at the scene, while the woman was arrested in Dublin city centre later on Monday afternoon. "Gardai have charged a male and a female following the seizure of drugs worth 600,000 at Dublin Airport on Monday 29th May, 2023, a garda spokesperson said. At approximately 1pm, Revenue Customs personnel seized cannabis worth 600,000 (analysis pending) at Dublin Airport. The cannabis was discovered in passenger luggage from an inbound flight. Gardai attached to Ballymun Drugs Unit arrested a male aged in his early 40s at the scene. In the course of a follow up operation, gardai from the Coolock Drugs Unit arrested a woman aged in her late 30s in the Dublin City Centre area later in the afternoon, in connection with the investigation. Both were detained under drugs trafficking legislation at a garda station in north Dublin. They have since been charged and are due to appear before a sitting of Dublin District Court this morning. Gardai said investigations are ongoing. Retailers will face fines of up to 5,000 or even 12 months in prison if they sell vapes to underage teens, as part of a crackdown on e-cigarettes. The Cabinet today signed off on new laws to ban the sale of vapes to under-18s, which will mean strict new rules for retailers. Drugs Minister Hildegarde Naughton said shops will now need a licence to sell vapes. Retailers caught selling vapes to underage teens will face fines of up to 4,000 or up to six months in prison. For subsequent offences, a fine of up to 5,000 can be enforced or up to 12 months in prison These will be enforceable by the Environmental Health Service and they are going to have more powers in relation to the rolling out of these laws to ensure that there is compliance in relation to the advertising of vapes as well, she said. Vapes will no longer be sold in vending machines and they will not be allowed to be advertised near schools and on public transport. These laws are expected to be in place by mid July, before the Dail rises for summer recess. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said vaping can lead to serious impairments for children. However, he said the same evidence is not there for adults. Vaping for children and vaping for teenagers can impair cognitive development. Thats pretty serious stuff, he said. There isnt the same evidence though in terms of vaping as bad for adults as cigarettes because there isnt tobacco in it, theres nicotine, nicotine is addictive. These products are really very new and there will be an evidence built up over time. The Government has previously indicated that it wants to ban disposable vapes, which have several hundred puffs and can be thrown away afterwards. Minister Donnelly did not give a timeline as to when the ban would actually be put in place. Theres a corresponding issue that the nicotine levels in them can be really very high, he said. Minister Naughton and I will have ongoing engagement with Ossian on that. The Irish Coast Guard has urged people to exercise caution when near the coast as the good weather continues over the coming days. Two males were rescued by the Irish Coast Guard on Tuesday evening after getting into difficulty in the water in north county Dublin. The Irish Coast Guard national operations centre received emergency calls regarding two males who were in difficulty in the sea at Malahide close to the Grand Hotel. While their exact age has not yet been confirmed, it is believed they are aged in their late teens or early 20s and were swimming when they were caught by a very strong current. The rescue team from Howth, who were just returning from a call, were tasked along with an RNLI inshore boat from Howth Harbour and Coast Guard Rescue 116. A passing boat which happened to be helmed by an off-duty member of the Howth Coast Guard team picked up the two people who were out of depth clinging to a mooring buoy. They were then dropped ashore to waiting Coast Guard shore crews, they did not require any further medical attention. The area in question is normally a red flag beach during lifeguard season which means it has been deemed too unsafe to swim. The Irish Coast Guard has urged people to exercise caution when near the coast as the good weather continues over the coming days. It added that it is encouraged by the quick response of the public recently to contact the Coast Guard at 112 or 999 when they see someone who may be in trouble. The victim of the accident has been named locally as Wassiou Ayawe The fatal accident happened at around 5.30pm yesterday at Lough Derg A promising footballer has died following an incident involving a jet ski in Killaloe, Co Clare. He has been named locally as Wassiou Ayawe (19), who was a native of Limerick city. Gardai and emergency services attended the scene of the incident on Wednesday evening around 5.30pm at Lough Derg. It followed reports of the male getting into difficulty in the water. Following an extensive search by gardai, the Killaloe Coast Guard, the Killaloe/Ballina Search and Rescue and the Killaloe Fire Service, the body of one male was recovered from the water about 7.30pm. He was pronounced dead at the scene and his body was brought to University Hospital Limerick for a post mortem examination. Wassiou was a promising underage footballer with Limerick FC, where he played as a forward. One of his former coaches described him on social media as a lovely young fella and super footballer. Was a pleasure to coach. RIP Waz. A spokesperson for An Garda Siochana said they were treating this matter as tragic accident. Reports have indicated the young man, along with two girls, was travelling on the jet ski on Lough Derg near the bridge in the Clare town when the vehicle flipped over. The jet ski will also be examined as part of an investigation to establish what happened. The Killaloe Coast Guard unit was sent to the scene shortly before 5.30pm and began a search, along with the local fire brigade. The Rescue 115 helicopter from Shannon was also involved in the search. A Department of Transport spokesperson said: Late this afternoon, the Irish Coast Guard was alerted to an incident where a jet ski had gotten into difficulty in the area between Ballina, Co. Tipperary and Killaloe, Co Clare. Valentia Coast Guard coordinated a search and rescue operation in conjunction with An Garda Siochana and the National Ambulance Service. "Shannon-based Coast Guard helicopter R115 and Killaloe Coast Guard Unit were tasked to the scene. Two casualties made their way to shore. Following a further search of the area, a third casualty was recovered who has unfortunately lost his life. The Irish Coast Guard extends their sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased, it added. Tony O'Brien, cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, said: "It's a really tragic incident, a young life lost in really tragic circumstances. Our thoughts and our prayers are with his family and his friends and all who knew him. "The young man wasn't a local to the area. It would be quite normal for people to come out and launch their craft in Killaloe. He said the circumstances were still unclear, but weather conditions had been perfect. "We just reinforce for everybody to respect the water; it can be very unforgiving if you're not familiar with the area. I'm not saying that is the case here. "It's quite a busy time of the year, there is a lot of craft around and people should make sure all their safety gear is up to scratch. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his friends and everybody who knew him. It is a traumatic time for them." I have so much life ahead of me meet the women embracing being empty nesters and making the most of midlife When women have finished raising their children and helping them find independence, they too can live with an agency and freedom they may not have had in years Fiona O'Sullivan. Photo: Mark Condren Alana Kirk Wed 31 May 2023 at 03:30 Carnival Sunshine encountered a strong storm system on its way from the Bahamas last weekend Matthew Branham and his fiancee, Madison Davis, were laying by a Carnival Sunshine pool on Friday aboard a cruise returning from the Bahamas when an announcement came over the loudspeaker. The captain was expecting rougher weather that evening, but there was nothing to worry about. So Branham and Davis didn't worry. As the day went on, "We noticed it started getting cooler in the afternoon - much, much cooler," said Branham, 25, from Virginia. "And then it was like a switch was flipped, and it literally turned into a nightmare." En route back to Charleston in South Carolina on Friday night into Saturday, the Carnival Sunshine navigated into a strong storm system that battered the southeast over the holiday weekend. Videos emerged on social media showing cabins and hallways flooding, shop floors littered with destroyed merchandise and leaking ceilings. Passenger Brad Morrell snapped a photo of an automated instrument map reporting a 69 knot, or 79 mph, wind. Carnival said in a statement that the weather was unexpectedly strong, causing conditions that were rougher than forecast, but that its fleet operations centre team, which relies on outside meteorology resources for itinerary planning, "coordinated to keep the ship in its safest location." "Attempting to sail out of the large front could have been dangerous," the statement continued. "The ship proceeded to the port as soon as the weather began to clear." Carnival said the captain made "several announcements about the weather and the delay it caused in returning to Charleston, asking guests to use extra precaution while walking around the ship." Additionally, "some of the worst weather occurred in the overnight hours when announcements are not typically made, but guests and crew were safe." The ship's medical staff did help a "small number" of guests and crew members who needed minor assistance following the storm. Despite the significant damage and a delay in schedule, Carnival Sunshine embarked on its next five-day Bahama sailing on Saturday. From their sea-view room, Branham and Davis watched as waves surged over their window and braced themselves as the 892-foot-long ship lurched in the storm. "Waves were hitting the boat so hard that it was like an earthquake experience, jarring you like a really rough roller coaster - even in the middle floor," Branham said. They were told to stay in their cabins. Meanwhile, Branham said, TVs were falling off walls, and glassware was sliding off shelves and shattering on the floor. "You could not stand up in your room," he said. "You could be thrown from the bed." They packed up their belongings when their floor started to flood and took shelter in a main lobby area. "All of the employees were sprinting downstairs with life vests," Branham said. "There were little kids besides us screaming and crying and throwing fits." Throughout the storm, Branham wondered why there weren't more announcements from Carnival staff. Besides the warning of rougher seas earlier Friday and one Saturday morning after they'd weathered the storm, Branham said they weren't given any official updates on their situation. When he asked workers what was going on, they told him not to worry. "But you see rooms flooded, and you can pick up a handful of sand and you're kind of like, 'What in the world? Why is nobody telling us anything?'" Branham said. Jim Walker, a maritime lawyer and cruise industry legal expert, says his firm has been contacted by some Carnival Sunshine passengers who were injured during the storm, including a man who says he was struck by a door and broke his foot. Others have asked him about the potential for a class-action lawsuit. While Walker said passengers should make their complaints known to Carnival, he doesn't believe filing a lawsuit would be an efficient next step. Instead, impacted passengers can ask Carnival for a refund or a credit for another cruise, although there's no guarantee the cruise line will grant such requests. Pete Peterson, owner of Storybook Cruises, which is affiliated with Cruise Planners, said cruise ships keep a close eye on weather developments and will adjust their itinerary depending on the severity of the storm. "Cruise lines monitor the weather all the time. They're not going to put their passengers in harm's way," said Peterson, who has been a cruise adviser for more than 20 years and has sailed on nearly 60 cruises. "Obviously, some cruise lines are better at doing this than others." In 2016, Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas returned to port after cruising into a "bomb cyclone," which damaged the ship amid winds gusting to 100 mph. The ship sailed into the remnants of Hurricane Hermine seven months later, causing additional problems. To ensure the safety and comfort of its passengers, a cruise ship can alter its course and circumvent the rough weather system. In stormy conditions, the crew can deploy the stabilisers, which will prevent the ship from rolling and bucking. "You don't experience the up and down," Peterson said. "It's not as rough a ride." Both approaches can add to a cruise line's expenditures, Peterson said. Stabilisers slow the vessel, thereby consuming more fuel. Sailing around the storm can take longer than the original route and disrupt the company's cruise schedule, leading to delays or cancellations. The cruise line may have to reimburse passengers or provide them with future credits because of the inconvenience. "When they do something like that, it's going to cost them money," Peterson said. Craig Setzer, a meteorologist and hurricane preparedness specialist, said that even with the hurricane-like conditions and flooding, "I would never be in doubt of the vessel's integrity." "Cruise ships are structurally very, very sound and can survive a lot, he said. They're really rugged." Matthew Cappucci contributed to this report Trains can be cheaper once the cost of baggage and overnight stays are factored Taking a sleeper train could be more cost-effective than flying, according to research by Which? Travel. Spot checks by the consumer champion this month discovered that a family of four could save nearly 100/116 travelling by sleeper train, while a bigger family could save more than 250/289. Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, said: Many of us want to reduce our carbon footprint by swapping the plane for the train, but price remains a barrier. While new sleeper train routes have launched across Europe, fares are prohibitive for many travellers. Our research found solo travellers and couples would have to pay significantly more to choose the train over the plane. But the good news is that there are savings to be made for families and larger groups who can share train compartments. Which? compared air travel against train travel for five sleeper routes: two in the UK and three in Europe. The report said that flights might seem far cheaper until you factor in the cost of baggage and an extra nights accommodation. And its not just the effect on the wallet to consider. Night trains are enjoying something of a renaissance in Europe as more tourists choose to travel by rail to reduce their carbon footprint. Which?s research also compared carbon emissions for each route and found that plane journeys emit up to seven times more CO2 per passenger. Austria's Nightjet. Photo: OBB/Harald Eisenberger For the three European sleeper routes, Which? compared the price of the cheapest private compartment in the first week of August with the cheapest flight and an overnight stay. While it was cheaper for two adults to fly and stay in accommodation in their destination, savings could be made when two adults and two children travel by rail instead. Of the services looked at, two (Paris to Vienna and Brussels to Vienna) were run by the biggest European operator, Nightjet. The third is a new sleeper service from Brussels to Berlin, which launched on May 25 with new company European Sleeper. The prices include the cost of taking the Eurostar to Brussels or Paris to catch each of these night trains, or when flying, the cost of cheapest flight departing between 9am and 5pm, two items of hold luggage and a night in an Airbnb/Vrbo in the destination. In the UK, the research looked at trips on the countrys two sleeper services: GWRs Night Riviera from London Paddington to Penzance, and the Caledonian Express from London Euston to the Highlands. MD of the Caledonian Sleeper Ryan Flaherty in one of its accessible double cabins (Jeff Holmes/PA) While the price of the route to Cornwall was similar to the cost of flights, it became cheaper with a Two Together railcard (and you can take a surfboard or bike for free). The research found that the Caledonian Sleeper was more expensive than flying for two adults and a similar cost for families of four and six (theres no discount for railcard holders available). Again, the cost of the cheapest flight departing between 9am and 5pm and two items of hold luggage, plus a night in an Airbnb/Vrbo in Aberdeen or Newquay, was all added together to calculate the total price. However, where travellers would really save is on the carbon cost: travelling from London to Aberdeen by rail emits 50kg of CO2 per passenger, while by air it more than doubles to 119kg per person. NB: Euro/sterling exchange rates calculated on day of publication WALKING into a pub in Limerick city, I was taken by an unusual T-shirt worn by a young man I guess was in his early 20s. It depicted Sean South, one of the Soldiers of Folly who died in a most ill-judged IRA attack on an RUC police barracks in the North on January 1, 1957, far from his native city. Charlie McCreevy was finance minister at the height of the Celtic Tiger boom. Photo: Colin O'Riordan With regard to the latest clamour by various politicians about how to spend the forecast tax bonanzas, we could do with looking back through the archives. Consider these snapshots of political thinking by the main coalition players prior to the 2008 crash. It was Charlie McCreevy who said: When I have it, I spend it and when I dont, I dont. Bertie Ahern informed us that the boom is getting boomier. Mary Harney, for her part, confirmed that Ireland was awash with money. Perhaps we should be mindful of these hostages to fortune when there is a move toward disregarding basic Keynesian economics and common sense Tony Hetherton Address with editor Lack of interest in Late Late hot seat tells its own story It was interesting to see Kathryn Thomas compliment new anchorman Patrick Kielty, who she said will give The Late Late Show the shake-up it needs (Kathryn Thomas says Kielty is perfect fit for The Late Late Show, Irish Independent, May 29). I wonder how she came to that conclusion. Furthermore, can she explain why no existing staff member at RTE sought to land the presenters job for a programme that has held a unique place in broadcasting since the early 1960s? I would suggest that existing staff were of the opinion that the days of the Late Late are numbered. Perhaps they would prefer to hold on to their present jobs on other programmes than sink with the new version of the show. Hugh Duffy Cleggan, Co Galway Russian leaders deserve to be treated like the Nazi regime Its interesting to note that just when Russias so-called special military operation is stalling, and Ukraine is getting the upper hand, Vladimir Putins regime is lashing out at soft civilian targets. They have taken to launching waves of drones, most of which, thankfully, are being shot from the sky by heroic anti-aircraft crews. If that sounds familiar to students, or even casual readers of history, its because there are broad similarities to how the Nazi regime launched its V1s and V2s in the closing months of World War II. They represented the last sting of a dying monstrous wasp, with apologies to the much-maligned insect. I wonder, though, if this war will be followed by trials akin to the ones convened at Nuremberg in 1945. Russias despotic government back then wanted all the Nazi leaders and even low-ranking Wehrmacht officers not directly involved in war crimes to be hanged or shot in the aftermath of Germanys defeat. Will the present-day autocrats in Moscow submit themselves to a similar tribunal to pass judgment on their conduct of the war against Ukraine? Im against the death penalty, whatever the crime. However, I hope that those who have ordered the murder of civilians, or participated in the deliberate unlawful killing, ill-treatment or abduction of Ukrainians during Putins unprovoked and illegal invasion, will be held accountable before an internationally recognised court of justice. John Fitzgerald Callan, Co Kilkenny We must help alleviate the challenges afflicting Africa I refer to an article by Feargal OConnell that focused on climate challenges in Africa (Africa is biggest climate crisis victim, and we can help, Comment, May 26). I commend the Irish Independent for publishing the article. I also salute Feargal and his charity, Self Help Africa, for the continued work of highlighting the major challenges faced by the people of Africa. I was in Lesotho in South Africa recently with Action Ireland Trust. While there, I witnessed the many challenges people face daily. This goes largely unreported. We must do more. Donal Richardson Julianstown, Co Meath FG should divert energies into availability of cancer drugs To the growing list of apparently insoluble problems that have arisen under our government we must now, it seems, add the inaccessibility of life-saving cancer drugs. What a pity that the Government as a working coalition could not devote the same energy and ingenuity to the solving of these problems as Fine Gael apparently on a solo run expended in outmanoeuvring their coalition partners in the matter of tax cuts. Actions, especially actions taken as a result of a well-thought-out plan, speak louder than words. At least we now know where Fine Gaels priorities lie. Brian Cosgrove Cornelscourt, Dublin 18 Tom and Hannah Sheehan, with a photo of their late son Darragh, in Doneraile, Co Cork. Photo: Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision The parents of a 26-year-old man who died outside The Gleneagle Hotel in 2020 are to challenge a decision by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) not to prosecute five men arrested in connection with his death. Darragh Sheehan, from Doneraile, County Cork, died after being restrained during a row outside the hotel in Killarney. The men were arrested in December of that year but later released without charge. The DPPs office said that, after careful assessment of the evidence, its lawyers concluded the evidence was not strong enough to prosecute any of the suspects for a criminal offence. Darraghs father, Tom, said the decision has caused him and his wife, Hannah, further anguish. When I wake during the night and hear my wife crying in her sleep, I know why she cries for the loss of seeing her son walk in the door randomly and smile at him perusing the irrelevance of an ESB bill or the Cork hurlers. That is no more, he said. In justifying its decision not to prosecute, the DPP said its job was to decide, based on the available evidence, whether there is a reasonable prospect of a conviction for a criminal offence. This decision from the DPP tells us that nobody needs to explain their actions. I believe Darragh could have been saved if people had acted differently under pressure, Mr Sheehan said. Why, as the DPP summarises, was there a delay from when gardai were called and arrived to when the ambulance was requested by the gardai? If the hotel had requested assistance from the services, Darragh might have survived. In a letter to Mr Sheehan, a senior prosecutor said gardai had responded to a report of a man causing a disturbance at the hotel having been removed by security staff. It stated that on arrival at the scene, gardai found Darragh lying face down on the ground and unresponsive. The officers requested an ambulance and performed resuscitation, but he was pronounced dead at 12.16am. A post-mortem was conducted on August 30, 2020, which determined that the cause of death was a combination of factors which included alcohol intoxication, underlying heart disease, a raised body mass index and lying in a face-down position, the letter said. Gardai spoke to a number of witnesses, and CCTV footage of the incident was obtained as well as mobile phone footage. According to the DPP, following an altercation, Darragh was escorted from the hotel by hotel security staff. They said witnesses confirmed Darragh was behaving in an extremely aggressive and threatening manner towards the hotel security staff. Witnesses also confirmed that Darragh was restrained and held face down on the ground by hotel security staff. CCTV footage supports the accounts of the witnesses. The letter said DPP lawyers considered whether there was enough evidence to prosecute for a criminal offence, including assault causing harm contrary to section three of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997 and manslaughter by gross negligence contrary to common law. After a careful assessment of the evidence, our lawyers concluded that the evidence was not strong enough to prosecute any of the suspects for a criminal offence in connection with your sons death. For this reason, they decided not to prosecute, it read. Among the factors considered by our lawyers was the extent of the medical evidence to prove that the actions of the suspects caused Darraghs death. Mr Sheehan has asked the DPP to reconsider the initial direction and allow us the opportunity to at least seek justice for our son. He did not die as a result of BMI or blood alcohol, but because he had been restrained face down on the concrete until he stopped breathing, he said. All we want is an open forum to discuss beyond a reasonable doubt what an adjudicator considers the cause of death. To rely on a post-mortem report in the interest of beyond reasonable doubt is not right. Mr Sheehan rejected the suggestion his son had an underlying heart disease. We, the family, completely refute this listing on the post-mortem and had never any inclination after 26 years that this was a condition, he said. Mr Sheehan described the decision not to prosecute the five men as wrong and said it could undermine the confidence of the community and our family in the criminal justice system of Ireland. This is a tenet of the code of ethics when administering these duties. If the admissible, relevant, credible and reliable evidence above is considered, it doesnt seem apparent that objectively has been applied, he added. I cannot think of a plausible rationale when considering the above details how the evidence in the file is not sufficiently strong to support the public interest to justify at least an open-forum trial. Mr Sheehan said losing his gentle giant never gets easier, but he is determined to get justice for his son: Some are blessed in the dead of night to hear a baby cry from its cot and smile as they move the child and sing a lullaby, I just lay there and think of Darragh as Hannah sobs while sound asleep. It is hell on earth. We will never have him walk through the front door again, but we want this reviewed. There are too many unanswered questions and facts. The DPP said it does not comment on individual cases. An tAthair Sean Mac Carthaigh, Sagart Paroiste Baile Mhuirne, Bishop William Crean, Cllr Gobnait Moynihan at the launch of Con Lynch's book on Naomh Gobnait in the Abbey Hotel on Sunday. Author Con Lynch with pal Gerry Free Lynch at the launch of his book on St. Gobnait at the Abbey Hotel at the weekend. A NEW book giving the most comprehensive account yet on Gobnait, the legendary abbess and popularly acclaimed saint, who settled in the Gaeltacht Mhuscrai village of Baile Mhuirne has been launched by the Bishop of Cloyne, Dr. William Crean. Gobnait - People and Places by retired teacher Con Lynch, who has penned a number of books since his retirement, who said his reasons for writing the book was to express his gratitude to the patron saint of Baile Mhuirne and, he expressed a hope, to establish a camino in honour of the saint. I want it to help create links between the communities associated with St. Gobnait and I hope that her courage, faith and absolute trust in God will help the people of today, especially younger people, he said. The attendance at Sundays event in Baile Mhuirne testified to the links that already exist as people travelled from Dun Chaoin in west Kerry, Kilgobnet in Kerry - and west Waterford and Ballyagran in Limerick. The proceeds of the sale of the book, which is available in local bookshops, are being donated by the author to the St. Gobnaits Shrine Committee, which looks after the shrine and cemetery on the hills overlooking the Gaeltacht village where Gobnait encountered the nine white deer, the divine sign, which persuaded her to locate in the community. Mediahuis Ireland COO Ian Keogh, INMA president Maribel Perez Wadsworth, Mediahuis Ireland CEO Peter Vandermeersch and Mediahuis Group CEO Gert Ysebaert at the INMA Global Media Awards in New York. The Corkman newsroom and Mediahuis Ireland regional colleagues have been recognised for the success of a local news project at a prestigious awards ceremony in the United States. At the International News Media Association (INMA) Global Media Awards in New York on Saturday, our regional newsrooms came first for Best Innovation in Newsroom Transformation (Regional Brands). Editor-in-chief of Mediahuis Ireland Cormac Bourke, said: We are delighted that our local news project has been recognised at such a prestigious international awards ceremony. The winning project is a perfect example of how Mediahuis is using our existing resources to best serve our growing audience. We have managed to bring our regional journalists to a national audience, with the added positive of bringing all of our newsrooms around the country closer together. The award was presented to Mediahuis Ireland CEO Peter Vandermeersch, COO Ian Keogh and Mediahuis Group CEO Gert Ysebaert. This is the third time the project has been recognised. Mediahuis won the Best Innovation award at the Local Ireland Media Awards last October, while it won the Best Digital Innovation award at last years Newsbrands Awards. The initiative created a fully-fledged online local news service for seven counties, including Cork, with daily breaking news. It also included the development of The Corkman digital edition. The aim is to create a targeted local news service for all 32 counties. The project has also involved the recruitment of new journalists to establish a Dublin desk, which specialises on local news in the capital. Mediahuis Regionals editor-in-chief Jim Hayes said: This global recognition of local innovation is the icing on the cake for small teams of editors and journalists, who have worked together to completely transform our local online offering through Independent.ie. Local journalism gives local communities a voice they can trust and the success of this pioneering project gives us the confidence to push ahead with even more ambition. The INMA Global Media Awards competition honours excellence in energising news brands, creating new products, growing and engaging audiences, increasing reader and advertising revenue. During the awards ceremony at New Yorks Harvard Club, 40 first-place winners were unveiled across 20 categories. All categories placed an emphasis on innovation and best practices in news brands. Norwegian newspaper Bergens Tidendes Journey Around the World project was recognised with the highest award, Best in Show, at the ceremony, The competition picked the best news projects from 775 entries originating from 239 market-leading news media brands in 40 countries. The inquest into the Lixnaw shootings in September 2021 was held at Listowel on Wednesday. Members of the late Eileen O'Sullivan's family with their solicitor John Cashell outside Listowel Court House following today's inquest. The inquest into the deaths of Maurice OSullivan (63), his partner, Eileen OSullivan (56), and their son Jamie (24) who died from gunshot wounds at their home at Ballyreehan, Lixnaw, on September 7, 2021, was heard at Listowel District Court on Wednesday. Having listened to evidence from An Garda Siochana, the Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margot Bolster, and several friends and neighbours of the OSullivan family, coroner Helen Lucey returned a verdict that Maurice OSullivan died by suicide, while the deaths of his partner and son were classified as unlawful killing. The inquest took just over an hour during which time Dr Bolster outlined post-mortem details. The autopsies of Eileen and Jamie OSullivan was performed by State Pathologist Dr Heidi Okkers, while Dr Bolster carried out the autopsy on Maurice OSullivan. Dr Okkers was not present in the court. The coroner requested that Dr Bolster give the evidence in the sequence in which the bodies were discovered on the night of September 7, 2021. Eileen OSullivan was found to have suffered a severe wound to her chest as she lay in bed that would have caused significant damage. She also received injuries to her upper arm when the shot was fired at a close range of about 30cm. Its thought Ms OSullivan suffered the injuries to her arm as she tried to defend herself. A gunshot wound to the chest was given as the cause of death. Jamie OSullivan was also in bed when he was shot at a distance of around a metre. He received a wound to the front of his neck. There was no evidence of any self-defence identified. The shot to the neck was given as the cause of death. Maurice OSullivan was killed by a single shot to the left side of the head. This caused traumatic brain and upper cervical cord damage, including damage to the palate of the mouth. Death would have been immediate, and no other signs of self-inflicted harm was found on the body. Members of the late Eileen O'Sullivan's family with their solicitor John Cashell outside Listowel Court House following today's inquest. Detective Garda Brian Barry - a specialist in ballistics and forensic examination of firearms identified the weapon used in the killings as a 12-gauge breach double barrel shot gun. Four discharge cartridges were examined, and all were fired from the same shotgun. Mr Barry also located boxes and rounds of 12-gauge cartridges in the home. Several neighbours gave evidence including neighbours Kathleen Harrington and Nora Quilter, of the discovery of the bodies of Eileen and Jamie in the house. Ms Harrington described Eileen and Maurice as a private couple, but very happy. Her evidence included visiting the house when they suspected something may have been wrong. The door of the OSullivan home was open at the time when she entered to discover the family dog under the table growling. She went to the bedrooms and discovered the bodies of Eileen and Jamie. At this point Kathleen Harrington and Nora Quilter contacted their neighbour John OMahony. Mr OMahony spoke of his friendship with the family, in particular Mossie whom he had bought 22 lambs from at the time. He said: Mossie and Eileen were very proud of Jamie and that Mossie was a man who tipped away doing odd jobs. He recalls seeing Eileen to the left of him when he entered the room and said: her leg was cold. I knew she was dead. Mr OMahony phoned the guards and told them a third person was missing. Garda Sean Behan of Lixnaw Garda Station revealed that he received a call at approximately 20:38 on September 7, 2021, saying that two bodies had been found in a house. At 20:55, Garda Tim Walsh and Sergeant Marcus Twomey arrived at the scene where a crowd of concerned neighbours gathered. Garda Behan noticed the gun safe door was open and there was no firearm. At this point the Garda Armed Dispatch Unit was called. At 21:35 the body of Maurice OSullivan was discovered face down in a drain with a long-barrelled firearm found on the ditch. While searching for Maurice near a drain and turf shed, a mobile phone near his body went off alerting them to his whereabouts. At 7:45pm on September 9, 2021, the bodies of Maurice, Eileen, and Jamie and were officially identified by John OSullivan (Maurices nephew) to Garda Cliona Walsh at University Hospital Kerry. Retired farmer and neighbour Maurice McCarthy spoke of knowing Maurice all his life. September 6, 2021, was the last time he spoke to Maurice, noting that he [Maurice] was a small bit off. It was like he wanted to get off the phone. There was nothing out of the ordinary, we spoke about animals and land, Mr McCarthy said. The coroner was informed there was no criminal proceedings pending on the direction of the DPP. In her closing statement, the coroner said that having listened to the evidence, Maurice OSullivan died by suicide, and that Eileen and Jamie died from unlawful killing. I want to extend my sympathy to the family of Jamie and Eileen, and to the family of Maurice, she said. What can one say? Its appalling. A terrible tragedy that would have had a colossal impact on the families and locality. Its a terrible tragedy to have an entire family wiped out, she said. The coroner complemented the Gardai for the manner in which they investigated the case. The Gardai also sympathised with the families of the deceased in the courtroom. Outside the court, Eileen OSullivans sister, Mary, and her niece, Catherine Houlihan, stood with their solicitor John Cashell who read a short statement on behalf of the family. Ive been asked to read the following statement from Eileens sisters, Mary and Margaret. It has been a traumatic and devastating 20 months for us since the loss of Eileen ad Jamie. Were pleased that the inquest has now finally concluded, he read. No one has the right to take the life of another under any circumstances. We know we are not the only ones that greatly feel their loss. Eileen and Jamie were much loved, kind and genuine individuals who are missed every second of every day. We would like to thank the close friends, neighbours and wider Lixnaw community who have not only been struggling with the shock of Eileen and Jamies violent deaths but have managed to find the strength to give their unfaltering support through this very difficult time. In witnessing first-hand, the shocking and devastating impact this has had on the community, we have campaigned tirelessly for change with the Irish Government. "Our campaign has focused on, firstly, changes to the licensing system of firearms to include additional checks on license holders, and mental health welfare checks to support crises intervention. Secondly, a rural community-based mental health support similar to that provided by the National, Educational Psychological Service in schools. "Following our meeting with the Minister for Justice on May 15, 2023, we look forward to the Government taking steps to implement the findings of the familicide review and the firearms licensing reforms as we have been reassured this will be the case. Mr Cashell concluded the statement: For us now, as a family, we are going to take the time to focus on our bereavement and healing. Thank you. Australian native with an adopted home of Sneem author Amanda Geard will launch her second book The Moon Gate this Friday, June 2. Australian native and Kerry based author Amamda Geard is the proud author of her second book, 'The Moon Gate' which she will launch at Listowel Writer's Week. The last few years surely must feel like some sort of wild dream for Australian native and now proud adopted Kerry resident, Amanda Geard, who this week will officially launch her second and highly anticipated book, The Moon Gate at the famous Listowel Writers Week on Friday, June 2, a festival that holds a special place in Amanda's heart. From moving to Sneem with her husband a few years ago where they bought and renovated an old house, to releasing her debut novel The Midnight House last May an acclaimed book that was a Richard & Judy Book Club pick to now, just days out from the official launch of book number two, its surely been a rollercoaster. When it's put to her that she's now the proud author of not one, but two books that are soon to be out in the world for people to read, Amanda laughed and said that her life has become, in her own words very unreal. The Moon Gate is again a multi-timeline mystery set largely between London and Tasmania with homage paid too to Amandas beloved Kerry too of course and moving between 1939, 1975 and 2004, readers will be be swept up in the tale of Libby Andrews and a story of love and war with Amanda promising lots of sacrifice and secrets and twists and turns for everyone to enjoy. Amanda had just received the hardbacks of The Moon Gate when I called and she spoke of her joy at getting to place The Moon Gate up alongside The Midnight House on her shelf. I was just flicking through it and then I put it next to The Midnight House on the shelf. It's a thing of beauty. It's lovely to see the final package after all the blood, sweat and tears that went into them, particularly the second book!" Amanda is very open about how hard she found it to write her second book, such was the success of her first one, describing it as pretty intense and nailed the analogy perfectly as a band trying to follow up their hit first album with another. "I definitely went through second album syndrome but it's great now to be out the other side, she laughed. "Unfortunately, it [the second book] was harder to write. It was really tough because there's not so much a sense of expectation from other people because you're still writing for yourself but you really do put more expectation on yourself that you're going to get to the end and that everyone's going to love it. Then of course you send it off to your editor and there was a lot of edits needed in the second book because you know, they don't buy the book, the buy the idea, she continued. One big plus to writing this latest one though was getting the chance to travel back home to her native Tasmania where a lot of the book is set. Being home and being to walk around a lot of the books locations in real life was a huge help to her getting the story out onto a page she said. "I went there to see my mom and I got up every morning and just started tapping away on the computer and I went to visit the sites that I was including in the book. That really helped because I think part of the difficulty in writing the second book was that it wasn't all set in Kerry, there was a lot of it set back home in Tasmania, she continued. "I hadn't been there [Tasmania] for a few years because of COVID so it was nice to get back. I really did enjoy writing something set in another place that I love, she said. With launch day at Listowel Writers Week this Friday, June 2 fast approaching, Amanda said she is so excited to launch her book at a place that first inspired her to start writing her first book. "I'm so excited [for publication day] and I couldn't think of a better place to launch it than Listowel Writer's Week. It's something I had really dreamed of and I'm pinching myself that it's something that I get to do. Writer's Week was the place where I first gleamed the inspiration to start writing so getting to launch The Moon Gate there feels like this beautiful full circle moment, she said. For those who enjoyed Amandas first novel, they will be delighted too to hear that a few familiar faces and Ballinn will pop up in this new book, something which she is already planning to do too in her upcoming third novel which she has recently begun work on. "I'm pretty excited to get into book three. I'm hoping, well I think, it will be set between Kerry of course and Northern Norway where I used to live. I'm pretty excited about the two locations and it will take the same format of secrets and sacrifice and what not." The Moon Gate will be available to buy online and all good book shops on June 8. Two retired Sligo Gardai have been honoured for their bravery when confronting an armed gang of men forty years ago. Retired Sergeant PJ Gallagher and Garda Thomas McGuinness each received receive a Bronze Scott Medal at a ceremony in Dublin on Friday morning hosted by the Garda Coimmissioner Drew Harris at the An Garda Siochana National Bureau Headquarters, Walter Scott House. Detective Garda Daniel (Donal) Kelleher, who was shot and seriously injured while escorting kidnapped businessman Don Tidey to safety in 1983 in County Leitrim received a Bronze Scott Medal posthumously On 7 October 1983 shortly after 11pm, Garda PJ Gallagher and Garda Thomas McGuinness were on mobile patrol duty. At that time, there had been a spate of robberies in isolated rural areas in County Sligo. As a preventative measure uniformed mobile patrols were operating from Sligo Garda Station, specifically targeting persons committing such crimes. Garda Gallagher and Garda McGuinness were aware of criminal paramilitary activity in the area. At approximately 11.30pm, when passing Dooney Woods in the townland of Aughamore Far, County Sligo, Garda Gallagher and Garda McGuinness observed a number of vehicles with lights on acting suspiciously in the picnic layby area of the woods. The presence of vehicles in this area would have been considered particularly unusual at this time of night. On driving the patrol car into the layby and activating the spotlight, Garda Gallagher and Garda McGuinness were suddenly and unexpectedly surrounded by a number of armed males who emerged from the woods. Garda Gallagher and Garda McGuinness were ordered at gunpoint to get out of the patrol car, to lie on the ground face down and remove their clothing. Given the risk to their lives, both Garda Gallagher and Garda McGuinness calmly complied with the order. Garda Gallagher and Garda McGuinness were then ordered to get into a van and subsequently into the boot of a red Sierra car. After travelling for some time the red Ford Sierra car stopped at a layby at Bawnboy, County Cavan and Garda Gallagher and Garda McGuinness were ordered at gunpoint to get into the boot of a hijacked Fiat car. They were driven erratically for some distance and stopped at Ballinagh Road, Kilnaleck, County Cavan. Garda Gallagher and Garda McGuinness then heard people getting out of the car. There was silence for a considerable period of time and after approximately one hourthe alarm was raised. Cavan Garda Station was contacted and Gardai arrived at the scene and released Garda Gallagher and Garda McGuinness from the boot of the car. The citation read: Garda Gallagher displayed intelligence, professionalism and thoughtfulness whilst under extreme pressure and remained calm in spite of the imminent risk to his life and the life of his colleague Garda McGuinness. Despite being involved in such a serious incident Garda Gallagher resumed duty the next day on 8 October 1983, to assist with the subsequent investigation. Garda McGuinness citation read that he had displayed intelligence, professionalism and thoughtfulness whilst under extreme pressure, and remained calm in spite of the imminent risk to his life and the life of his colleague Garda Gallagher. Despite being involved in such a serious incident Garda McGuinness resumed duty the next day on 8 October 1983, to assist with the subsequent investigation. Sligo/Leitrim Chief Superintendent Aidan Glacken read the citation for retired Sergeant Gallagher and retired Garda Thomas and invited them to the Podium to receive their Bronze Scott Medals. On 24 November 1983, Mr. Don Tidey, a prominent businessperson, was taking his young daughter to school when he was abducted in Rathfarnham, County Dublin, by armed members of the IRA posing as members of An Garda Siochana. An Garda Siochana launched a major operation for the purpose of attempting to locate Mr. Tidey and to identify those involved in his abduction. In the course of the following days, a nationwide search for Mr. Tidey led to the locating in County Kildare of vehicles utilised in his abduction and the arrest of suspects in Tralee, County Kerry. On 14 December 1983, the focus of the nationwide search for Mr. Tidey switched to County Leitrim and involved participation by a large contingent of members of An Garda Siochana, including Garda recruits who had recently joined An Garda Siochana, but had not yet completed their training at the Garda Training Centre in Templemore, County Tipperary. On 16 December 1983, when Mr. Tidey was in his twenty-third day of captivity and upon receipt of confidential information, members of An Garda Siochana were joined by Irish Army personnel assigned to the 58th battalion, based in Finner Camp, County Donegal, in undertaking a search of a wooded area located at Ballinamore, County Leitrim. At the time, Detective Garda Daniel Kelleher was attached to the Security Task Force involved in the search to locate Mr. Tidey. On hearing an urgent call for assistance, Detective Garda Kelleher rushed to the area, accompanied by Detective Inspector Somers and Detective Sergeant Rice. Upon arrival, a number of bursts of automatic gunfire rang out, coming from the direction of Drumcroman Wood. Despite the active shooting and in full knowledge of the potential danger, Detective Garda Kelleher exited his vehicle and crept forward using a low ditch as cover. Detective Inspector Somers and Detective Sergeant Rice went ahead whilst Detective Garda Kelleher provided armed cover at the back. After travelling approximately 200 yards, Detective Garda Kelleher noticed a uniformed Garda and a person who he thought was a soldier, about 70 or 80 yards ahead. They were crouched behind a ditch. Detective Sergeant Rice crawled up to these individuals. Detective Garda Kelleher and Detective Inspector Somers remained in position and provided armed cover. Detective Sergeant Rice subsequently returned accompanied by Mr. Tidey. Whilst waiting for transport to escort Mr. Tidey to safety, Detective Garda Kelleher provided armed cover. A car then approached at high speed and a number of shots were discharged by the occupants of the car. This resulted in Detective Garda Kelleher being shot and injured in both legs. Subsequently, three people were convicted relating to criminal charges arising from their involvement in the abduction of Mr. Tidey. The citation for Det Garda Kelleher stated: For exceptional courage and bravery involving personal risk to life in the execution of duty, the Bronze Scott Medal is awarded posthumously to Sergeant Daniel Kelleher, RIP. Sligo/Leitrim Chief Superintendent Aidan Glacken read the Citation for Sergeant Daniel Kelleher and invited Sergeant Kellehers wife, Mrs. Caroline Kelleher to the Podium to receive the Bronze Scott Medal. In 1924 Colonel Walter Scott donated to An Garda Siochana a $1,000 gold bond, in perpetuity, to endow a bravery medal, the Walter Scott Medal, and included the dies from which all Scott medals would be struck 11 Scott medals were awarded on Friday including 1 Gold Medal (Posthumously) 7 Silver Medals 3 Bronze Medals (1 Posthumously) If randomly selected people were asked if they were familiar with the Angelshark most would probably answer No as the species is not well known by that name. On the other hand, if they were asked if they were familiar with Monkfish most would probably answer Yes as it is a popular and tasty choice on menus in restaurants and hotels. The Monkfish, renowned for its mild but flavoursome taste with a lobster-like meaty texture, is also known as the Angelshark as it is a member of the Angel Shark family. All members of that family have flat bodies, live close to the seabed, and have elongated fins that look like wings, hence the reference to angels. While Monkfish is a popular fish on menus at present, in the distant past it was regarded by fishermen as waste or rubbish and was put aside as one of the species to be given to monks questing for free food for themselves and to feed the poor. Angel Sharks are found mainly in the warmer waters of the Mediterranean. The Monkfish has the distinction of being the only member of the family that occurs in the temperate waters of northern Europe. Monkfish have a flat head, small eyes, and a huge mouth that doesnt win them points for beauty but serves them well for hunting. They favour sandy and muddy bottoms that they can bury themselves in with only their eyes protruding. They watch for passing prey and once something comes within range they grab it with their huge and deadly efficient mouth. The Monkfish or Angelshark was once a common species in northern European waters. However, over the last century it suffered widespread decline across its range due to the combination of overfishing and its slow rate of reproduction. When fishers exhaused one area they move on to fresh grounds. The decline in Ireland over the past 50 years is described as dramatic. The species is now one of our rarer sharks and is officially red listed as critically endangered. The recently launched Angel Shark Project: Ireland is looking for help to conserve the species and welcomes information in the form of either reports of old records or new sightings. For further information see www.irishelasmobranchgroup.com or follow the team on social media: Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Businesses in the Hook Peninsula are the first rural enterprises in Ireland to come together to look at signing Diversity Charter Ireland and embrace this initiative to create a local network. May is European Diversity month, and one of the best events in Ireland this year was a roundtable of local SME, (Small medium enterprise) owners on the Hook Peninsula held on Thursday in Gralinn cafe, Fethard on Sea. This event was held as part of the DIVERSEurope project, funded by the European Commission through the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) Programme, with Diversity Charter Ireland. The project is focused on SMEs, diversity and inclusion. "Diversity is about our ability to be open to difference and valuing what that openness can bring to our lives, and our businesses. It encompasses all we do to promote equality and protect and respect people from across the nine grounds that are covered in our equality legislation in Ireland. The nine grounds are age, civil status, disability, family status, gender, race, religion, membership of the Traveller Community and sexual orientation, said Maria Hegarty of Equality Strategies Ltd, one of the founders of Diversity Charter Ireland. Kate Murphy, who has worked with #hookedondiversity, championed the rollout of this project on the Hook Peninsula. Diversity Charter Ireland is a network of 65 organisations who signed a voluntary commitment to promote diversity and inclusion in their organisations. It is part of a European network, supported by the European Commission of 26 national diversity charters with over 12,800 signatory organisations covering 16 million employees across Europe. "In the lead up to this event, a wide variety of local SME owners were visited and invited to learn more about the project and to attend the roundtable, which was met with a very positive and encouraging response, said Ms Murphy. At the roundtable, local SME owners talked about the value of diversity and inclusion for their businesses, shared experiences and discussed how they can support and learn from each other, so that their remote rural area is one where people feel valued and respected. Duiske College transition year art students photographed with their art display for Towns of Books project in Barrow Valley Hub in Graiguenamanagh. Photo; Mary Browne Duiske College transition year art students photographed with their portraits in Barrow Valley Hub in Graiguenamanagh. From left; Zoe Foley, Saoirse O'Brien, Keelan Cushen, Luke Walsh, Polina Cerlrker and Maya Vurancez. Photo; Mary Browne Duiske College Transition Year art students photographed with their mural in Barrow Valley Hub in Graiguenamanagh. Photo; Mary Browne This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Town of Books Festival in Graiguenamanagh, which sees buildings in the the town transformed into book shops over three days. This unique festival has placed Graiguenamanagh at the heart of those interested in books and literature. Graiguenamanagh was Irelands first book festival and is the longest-running book festival in Ireland, said festival committee member Mary Whelan. The festival attracts many visitors to Graiguenamanagh over the weekend of the festival and adds hugely to the tourist offering and indeed the local economy. It is a most enjoyable weekend for visitors and locals. We have many visitors coming back each year. This year as it is the 20th year we would like to mark the occasion with a bigger and better festival and increase our visitor numbers again for attendance at the festival, the numbers are growing year on year. As Graiguenamanagh, establishes itself as a tourist hub, with the Barrow Valley Activities Hub (where the festival HQ is based) winning the National Pride of Place Award under the Community Tourism Category. All of these projects together are helping to drive tourism in the area and increasing the visitor experience to the village and surrounding areas. Our vision for this year is that derelict premises on the main street would have window displays relating to the book theme of The Wind in the Willows to enhance the main street and the visual impact of the town. Transition Year Students from Dusike College with their Art Teacher William Watson, have helped the committee to achieve this goal. They have created beautiful artwork for the windows as part of the Gaisce awards. Throughout the year Transition year Art students at Duiske College have engaged with local community groups such as Graiguenamanagh Town of Books and The Hub Activities centre to create unique and innovative visual art. All creative, collaborative and innovative student-led projects contribute to the TY students Gaisce award. These projects encourage the development of life skills, such as, communication, management skills, reflection and decision-making. The pupils were praised for the excellent quality of their work at The Hub in Graiguenamanagh on Monday. Billy Kelleher MEP at Horeswood school with 5th and 6th class pupils and their projects on Europe. Photo; Mary Browne Billy Kelleher MEP at Horeswood school with 5th and 6th class pupils and their projects on Europe. Photo; Mary Browne MEP for the Ireland East Constituency Billy Kelleher visited Scoil Mhuire Horeswood recently as part of the schools participation in the Blue Star Programme. The programme teaches primary school pupils about European cultures and the EU through creative activities and projects which complement the national primary school curriculum. "The school has participated in this programme for a number of years. The visit of Mr Kelleher also coincided with the EU50 celebrations which marked the 50 year anniversary of Irelands membership of the EU, said Horeswood NS principal Brian Flood. Mr Kelleher spoke to the children about his work representing them in the European Parliament. He was asked many interesting and relevant questions about his work by the pupils. Mr Flood said that Scoil Mhuire Horeswood was delighted to welcome Mr Kelleher to the school. He said the Blue Star Programme was a great project for the school to be involved in and thanked the pupils and their teachers for their hard work that was put into the programme. Mundy, Nomads and John Spillane to play in park Summer Sessions 23 will start on Saturday, July 15 and run right through to Saturday, August 26, with John Spillane, Niamh Kavanagh and Mundy among the performers. The Sessions are free of charge, with Wexford County Council and local councillors providing the funding for the gigs at The Library Park. Local act The Nomads perform on the opening night. These childhood friends first took to the stage in the early 70s. They may be a little heavier, not so much hair, but the songs sound as good as ever! The following Saturday sees Cork musician John Spillane perform. The songwriter, performer, recording artist, storyteller and poet has performed around the world and his songs are played often on Lyric FM. His vocal style has a unique almost sean-nos like quality and his performances shimmer with the magic realism that permeates many of his songs as he effortlessly flits between beautiful poetry tinged with melancholy to roguish, irreverent humour. Spillane has the ability to charm, mesmerise and entertain in equal measure. A two-time Meteor Award winner for Best Folk/Trad act he is one of the most accomplished songwriters in Ireland. With an extensive back catalogue beginning with the 1997 album The Wells of the World, his songs have been covered by Christy Moore, Sharon Shannon, Sean Keane and many others. On Saturday, July 29, Eurovision winner, Niamh Kavanagh plays. Kavanagh is best known for her Eurovision successes, representing her country twice and winning for Ireland in 1993. She has recorded many albums and collaborations, in particular lending her vocals to one of the best-selling soundtrack albums of all time, The Commitments. Summer Sessions is featuring Kavanagh as she celebrates the 30th anniversary of her Eurovision win. On Saturday, August 5, Mundy performs. The talented musician has enjoyed gold and multi platinum record sales in Ireland and also picked up Meteor awards for Best Male and Most Downloaded Song with Steve Earles Galway Girl, recorded live with Sharon Shannon. Since 1996 Mundy has released eight albums showcasing his eclectic styles in music from rock, to Americana, to folk and Indie. Flamenco guitarist John Walsh performs on Saturday, August 12. He has gained eminence in Spain, and indeed further afield, for his brilliant mastery of Flamenco guitar.Walsh has composed music for and performed with the National Ballet of Ireland, Bill Whelans Riverdance and Michael Rooneys De Cuellar Orchestra among others. In 2020 John released his debut album Irlandalucia, which received widespread critical acclaim both nationally and Internationally. On Saturday, August 19, Eryn Buckley from Clonroche performs. She is an accomplished musician in both piano and guitar. Eryn likes to perform her own interpretation of well known songs ranging from rock and pop, to country, to musical theatre. This performance will include a variety of timeless classics. The final night, Saturday, August 26, sees New Rosss own world pipe band champions (2012, 2013), New Ross & District Pipe Band, perform their Celtic Weave concert. The band will be just back from France, having been invited to represent Ireland at the Festival Interceltique de Lorient. The band has visited many countries including USA, Spain, Lithuania, the UK, and France. They have led the St. Patricks Day Parade in London and they have performed for Pope John Paul II in the Vatican in Rome. Wicklow Gardai are investigating reports of a group of three to four people who have been posing as fundraisers for the RNLI in Arklow. Equipped with clipboards, bogus RNLI ID badges and printed sponsorship cards, the group allegedly sought donations from business owners and their customers up and down Arklows Main Street for a sponsored swim in the local Coral Leisure Centre. After reports of the groups activities reached the RNLI, the charity turned to social media to alert their community. Unfortunately, a number of Arklow residents had already been deceived by the scam, many of whom were said to be duped by the long list of signatures the group presented on the phoney sponsorship cards. Reacting to the distressing reports, Paul Burke from the Arklow RNLI fundraising branch said: I got a call there on Friday from someone asking me if I knew that there were two people going around collecting for the RNLI. Then came a load of other calls from different shops around the town. Apparently there was a man, a woman and a child who were going into shops looking for sponsorship in the RNLIs name. They had RNLI ID badges on a lanyard and everything, with their photographs on them. Unfortunately, some people did get caught by it and gave them money. One lady that showed me some CCTV footage of them said that the man stayed outside the shop while the woman and the child asked customers for sponsorship. "She also said that she got a look at the sponsorship cards they were using, and she said she saw 10 and 20 donations on the cards. As I said to her, they could all very well be fake donations, just to make it seem more legitimate and to encourage people to donate. We reported it to the Gardai and asked the lady to hold onto the footage. I actually had a phone call from the RNLI in Dublin who had seen our post about it. I told them what the story was and they said theyd put the word out to the RNLI stations. The thing is, people we collect money from know us, like any charity group around the town. This is why so many people rang us and why we were able to respond to it quickly. I suppose, scams like this may have happened in the past, but certainly not in my time. Of course, you hear of charity scams all the time, youd just never expected it in such a small and tight-knit town like Arklow. Appalled by the reports of the scam, Cllr Tommy Annesley said: Im very involved in the RNLI and when they were alerted to the situation they took action straight away. All the traders were informed about it and it was shared all over social media. The thing about the Lifeboat is, its a very local organisation. Everyone in the town knows the fundraisers and has links to the RNLI or to fishing, thats what makes this so audacious. I suppose, as money gets scarce, people start doing things they shouldnt be doing. You hear stories about lads going around posing as ESB or other utility workers, who prey on older people especially. Id urge everyone to be extra careful because there are chancers out there. Its vital that people check a fundraisers ID, so their generous donations can go to the real charities who, in this case, are in the business of saving lives. Echoing his colleague's sentiments, Cllr Pat Kennedy said: Its the same families and people that have been fundraising for the RNLI for a long time. All local people would know the RNLI fundraisers and they always advertise their fundraising efforts well. The RNLI carry out a hugely important service for our community and its all voluntary. Id ask people to be vigilant and careful if theyre approached for a donation so that we can keep the money in the hands of the people who perform valuable community services. Cost of living getting too much for you? Help is available. MABS is offering Money Management talks to all local groups. Please contact Bray MABS at 0818 07 2250 to arrange a talk for your group. South Leinster Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is the States money advice service, guiding people through dealing with debt and support with money management. They have offices at 2 The Boulevard, Quinsboro Road, Bray. See mabs.ie. The MABS Helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Beach cleans Arklow Coastcare, with the help of volunteers from Sunbeam House and the National Learning Centre, cleans Arklow South Beach every Thursday at lunchtime from 1.30 p.m. All are welcome. For more information about the group or any of their many environmental projects, you can contact Corey Bateman by email at cbateman@wicklowcoco.ie. Cancer support Arklow Cancer Support is offering counselling face to face or remotely for cancer patients or family members. It also offers bereavement counselling, plus its volunteers drive patients for their daily radiation therapy If you are interested in joining the group meetings, you can do so any Thursday night at 7.30 p.m. Their drop-in Friday events are open to all. Opening hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. You can also reach the team via 0402 23590 or 085 110 0066 or email arklowcancersupport@gmail.com. Junior Parkrun Arklow junior parkrun takes place every Sunday morning at 9.30 a.m. at the Duck Pond. This is a 2k event for juniors only, aged between four and 14 years old. For info, email arklowduckpond-juniors@parkrun.com. Aughrim Town Market Check out the Aughrim Town & Country Market every Saturday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in The Pavilion, Rednagh Road, Aughrim. You can find a full selection of artisan baked breads, biscuits, cakes, hummus, chutneys and savoury eats. There are also health supplements, candles, jewellery, knitted toys and childrens wear. For more information, call Dave at 083 0349577. Grow Grow Mental Healths Arklow Community Group is holding in-person meetings at a new venue weekly on Mondays at 10 a.m. at the Arus Lorcan community centre in Castle Park. Anyone is welcome to attend the meetings which will explore positive mental health, wellbeing and recovery. Meetings are free to attend and open to all. For more information about the Grow group, you can call Trish on 086 012 9082. Autism friendly Arklow Library has some amazing activities planned. All children with special superpowers are welcome; siblings can come along too. Just give the library a call on 0402 39977 to book. Dont forget, you can book the Magic Table at any time, so dont delay. Family fun at the library Arklow Library hosts Family Fun Time every Saturday from 12 a.m., with stories, crafts, jigsaws and plenty of other fun and interactive activities. There is also Storytime at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays. On Fridays, there is a Movie Club for ages three and up at 3.30 p.m. For more information, contact 0402 39977. Arklow Writers Club Join the Arklow Library Writers Group for a safe environment to share and improve on your writing. All levels welcome and no booking is required. My Open Library has resumed, meaning those with MOL access cards have access to the library from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Contact arklowlibrary@wicklowcoco.ie for more information on MOL or the writers group. East Coast Samaritans East Coast Samaritans, based in Arklow, offer emotional support to their callers through telephone calls and email. They can be contacted 24/7 by calling 116 123. You can also find more information at www.samaritans.org/branches/arklow/. The charity would also like to invite anyone who is interested in volunteering to get in touch. For more information, go to samaritans.ie/volunteer. Arklow Craft Fair The Arklow Craft Fair takes place in Bridgewater Shopping Centre from noon to 6 p.m. on the first Saturday and Sunday of each month. The fair brings crafters/artisans/growers/bakers of all kinds together. Arklow Tidy Towns Arklow Tidy Towns mission is to improve the landscape in the town of Arklow for residents and visitors alike. They meet each Tuesday in season to carry out various projects around the town. Their CE scheme carries out essential landscape maintenance and litter control all over the town on a daily basis. For more information, or to join the team, email arklowtt@live.com or head to their Facebook page. New Irish chat group If you would like to practice your Gaeilge or just learn a few words of Irish, join friendly faces and local linguists at the Ballyraine Cafe every Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. he group will meet every Wednesday (except for school holidays) and all are welcome to attend. For more info, visit the Ballyraine Cafe Facebook Page. We look forward to welcoming you. Bridge Clubs Arklow 68 Bridge Club is back to in-person bridge every Wednesday at 7.15 p.m. at the Arklow Presbyterian Church Hall, Dublin Road. All are welcome to attend. The Arklow Bridge club continues to meet through the summer months and welcome all non members. We have a Joker system. We meet Tuesday evening at 7.30 pm in the Presbyterian Hall, Dublin Road Arklow. This summer arrangement starts on June 13. Mens Shed Arklow Mens Shed meets at Monument Lane. Our aim is to create a space where men can meet to share experiences and encourage each other to develop new skills, gain better health and develop friendships. New members welcome. For info, call 086 3217860 or email arklowmensshed1@gmail.com. Arklow Parish Bingo After a very long absence Arklow Parish Bingo will recommence on Tuesdays, at Arus Lorcain, Castlepark Arklow. Doors open at 8 p.m., with play commencing at 8.30 p.m. Golden Circle trips The Arklow Golden Circle social group will be making a trip to Dublin for Bloom on Jun 1. There is space for 100 people and tickets are 35. The buses will depart from Tesco at 9 a.m. sharp. The group will also be going on a group holiday to Galway, from October 1 to 5. Included in the price is the cost of the hotel, your evening meals, the bus journey, trips out, meals on the way up and down. The price for twin and double rooms are 500; singles 835. Lets Sing Come to Arus Lorcain in Arklow on Thursday mornings from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and share the fun of singing with others. There is a cost of 5 to attend. Call Rosarii at 0402 32248 if you would like more information. House of Stories The Arklow House of Stories group meet every last Thursday of the month at The Harbour Bar at 8.30 p.m. All are welcome to attend the evening. Conversation Group Arklow Library are holding a weekly conversation session in English every Thursday at 7 p.m. all adults are welcome. It is a mixed international group, where anyone can improve their English speaking skills. All kinds of amazing If your child has additional needs, this group may be for you. Welcoming and friendly, perfect for sharing experiences. The group meet between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. every last Wednesday of the month, at Arklow Library. Young adult book club Arklow Library will host a young adult diversity book club every first Thursday of the month at 4.30 p.m. New members are always welcome! Gaelcholaiste na Mara students with Mairead McGuinness, European Commissioner for Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union and Myles OGrady, Group CEO, Bank of Ireland. Students from Gaelcholaiste na Mara in Arklow won second place at this years Bank of Ireland Money Smarts Quiz Grand Final, held in Trinity College Dublin on Friday, May 12. The Bank of Ireland Money Smarts Quiz Challenge is now in its fourth year, with nearly 2,000 students competing this year to reach the Grand Final. Sixteen secondary school teams from across Ireland, who all emerged victorious from qualifiers held recently in the RDS, gathered together in Dublin to compete in the final on Friday. Students from Catholic University School (C.U.S.) Dublin were crowned champions while the team of Our Ladys School Terenure took the bronze medals. Bank of Ireland Money Smarts is a free financial literacy programme for 2nd Level students, with the financial literacy quiz featuring as the centrepiece of the programme, designed to help students learn about managing their finances and good financial well-being habits. Its been a very dark place, and the Arklow community have brought light into it A Wicklow woman who is battling an aggressive form of cancer has heaped praise on her community for bringing light into a dark place by generously raising over 19,000 for her vital treatment abroad Last September, popular Arklow foodie and mother of two Kelly Barnes was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer that has affected multiple organs, including her liver, bowels, adrenal glands and lungs. Kelly Barnes from Arklow. Kelly recently finished an intensive 12 rounds of chemo that have halted the spread and, although her cancer is inoperable, she has identified a more natural route to fight her cancer at the Budwig Treatment Centre in Spain, at a cost of 10,000 for two weeks. Turning to social media, Kellys tight-knit circle of friends rallied around her and set up a fundraising page that has exploded with donations, and has already raised enough to cover the expensive treatment. Having overcome lung cancer in 2017, "warrior" Kelly said that the overwhelming response from the Arklow community has filled her and her family with a renewed sense of hope. Between myself, my daughters and my partner, we still cant get our heads around how our friends, family and the whole town have rallied around us, Kelly said. My friends have been so amazing. The last thing my friend Susan Byrne said to me before she set up the fundraiser was: If this doesnt take off, well bag pack in Tesco or whatever we have to do, but were going to get you over to Spain. We couldnt believe the response after the donation page was launched, we nearly had enough within the first 24 hours! Friends and family members have been sharing it with their friends. One of my husband Eamonns friends got 600 just from texting his friends. Before I was diagnosed, I had set up my own cheese and charcuterie business called Kellys Krafty Platters, and I've noticed that a lot of my regular customers have donated, which has been really lovely to see. Honestly, a 20 donation is exceptionally generous, especially in this climate, but people have been giving 50, 100 and more its unbelievable really. I owe a huge thanks to Arklow Cancer Support too, and cant speak highly enough about them. Ive been going down to get reflexology and I took advantage of their counselling almost immediately after my diagnosis. Just fantastic people altogether. Overall, the burden the Arklow community have taken off our shoulders has made my life a little bit happier these last seven days. Its been a very dark place, and the Arklow community have brought light into it. The generosity of the town has filled us with hope. The cancer is so aggressive this time, its just a matter of holding it back as much as possible. The more I can do to hold it back, the longer I get basically. If the Budwig Centre can manage to push it back a few years, Ive already looked into a place in Germany that might be able to operate and a place in Mexico that do an immunotherapy treatment. Any extra money from the fundraiser will be going toward my continued treatment, and I can't thank the people of Arklow for giving me the option to access these therapies I could not otherwise have availed of. Susan Byrne, who has been spearheading the fundraising drive, echoed her close friends comments about the Arklow community, adding: Were absolutely gobsmacked with the response the fundraiser has had and the generosity and support people have been showing Kelly. Our group of friends had discussed starting a fundraiser, decided to go for it and set it up last week. Shortly after we had posted on social media it just took off, with lots of people sharing it with their friends and families. We told Kelly that, if the fundraiser didnt reach its target, wed do charity benefit nights or whatever we had to do to raise the money, but we had it within no time at all. We were originally just doing it for the two weeks in Spain she has booked for June, but the fundraiser is going so well, she might even get to go again in July or August. I dont know what it is about Arklow, but the community really seems to come together anytime someone is in need. Its just an amazing place, full of the most generous people youll ever meet. To donate to Kellys treatment visit www.gofundme.com/f/tell-kelly-get-cancer-treatment You may have seen his appearances on Live at the Apollo, which introduced audiences to a raft of comedians since Jack Dee kicked it off back in 2004; Georgia-born Reginald D (Darnell), who came to the UK at the age of 27 to pursue his studies in acting, but turned to stand-up instead, was one of the most notable stars of that show and he went to to even bigger things. He last toured Ireland in 2013 with his In the Midst of Crackers show, so this is an opportunity that does not come around very often, as he brings his latest show, The Man Who Could See Through S***t to the Whale Theatre in Greystones, on Thursday, October 5, with tickets on sale from Thursday, May 25. Reginald D Hunter has become one of the industrys best-known performers for his distinctive take on the most diverse range of subjects. His work can be brutally honest and is often considered to be controversial but it is always meticulously thought out and he has never been afraid to face challenging issues head on even when the focus is on his own principles or beliefs. He reached the final of So You Think You Are Funny in 1998 during his first visit to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and was nominated for The Edinburgh Comedy Awards Best Newcomer in 2002 for his debut full-length show I Am What I Am. He was then nominated for The Edinburgh Comedy Awards main prize in 2003 for White Woman and 2004 for A Mystery Wrapped In A Nigga (he got away with that one). In 2006 he won the Writers Guild Award for Comedy for his show Pride and Prejudice and Niggas (he got away with that one too). His TV appearances have included Never Mind The Buzzcocks, QI and Have I Got News For You? He also filmed two series of the BBC2s hugely popular Reginald D Hunters Songs Of The South & Reginald D Hunters Songs of The Border, documenting Reginalds epic road trip through 150 years of American popular song. His highly popular debut DVD Reginald D Hunter Live was one of the top sellers in the DVD comedy charts as was his follow up DVD Reginald D Hunter: In The Midst of Crackers. Marta Lukaszewicz pictured in the Harbour Bar, where she used to perform. Photo: Leigh Anderson. A Polish mother-of-two, who has been living in Bray since 2005, is making a desperate appeal for help after a debilitating illness slowly took away her husband, her career as a teacher and a musician, and the day-to-day joys of being a mother. Girls Who Slay Monsters, written by debut author Ellen Ryan, has won the double for the Greystones mum, after being awarded both the KPMG Book of the Year Award and the KPMG Junior Juries Award, which is voted for by thousands of young readers across Ireland. The winners were announced on Wednesday, May 24, by host Rick OShea at a ceremony held in Merrion Square, as part of International Literature Festival Dublin. Ellens book is a collection of short stories, which puts strong female characters at the heart of Irelands ancient myths and legends. The collection is illustrated by Shona Shirley MacDonald. Speaking at the ceremony, Elaina Ryan, CEO of Childrens Books Ireland, said: Our congratulations to every one of the authors, illustrators and publishers celebrating their wins today. Ireland has always been a nation of storytellers, and every one of these winners exemplifies the sheer excellence visible in contemporary Irish childrens books. As we celebrate another year of the KPMG Childrens Book Awards, we hope that todays celebrations encourage them to keep creating stories that speak as powerfully to their readers as these. The Principal of Greystones Community College, Ruairi Farrell, received the prestigious Teachers Inspire Ireland Desmond Award for the inspirational role he played in the lives of his students. At a special ceremony in Dublin City University, on Thursday, May 25, hosted by RTE Broadcaster Miriam OCallaghan, Mr Farrell was honoured alongside three other teachers from across Ireland. Mr Farrell was nominated by past pupil Ciara Nolan, who had been struggling with an eating disorder during her time in school. Mr Farrell took action and made an appointment for her then 17-year-old Ciara to see a counsellor, which helped her get the help she needed. Ciara said: Mr Farrell would always pull you aside if he thought you were having a bad day, and really took the time to sit and listen to anything you had to say. With his help and support Ciara said that Mr Farrell saved her both mentally and physically". Organised and run by Dublin City University, Teachers Inspire is an Ireland-wide initiative that seeks to celebrate teachers and recognise the transformative role they play in our lives and in our communities. Acclaimed Author, Louise ONeill, returned as this years curator and host of the Teachers Inspire podcast, where she spoke to some of the nominees about the challenges they faced at school and how their teachers helped them overcome them. On her involvement with the Teachers Inspire initiative, Louise said: It is an honour to curate and host the Teachers Inspire podcast once again. I have loved and felt immensely privileged to listen to and to share the stories of the nominators and nominees from across Ireland. Coming from a family of teachers, I have seen first hand how much love, passion and effort goes into the job, and every single teacher deserves to be recognised for the work that they do when it comes to shaping the lives of future generations. The Teachers Inspire initiative is generously supported by a philanthropic donation from Mr Dermot Desmond. Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Desmond said: In all that they do, teachers have a profoundly positive influence on the lives of our children and young people. They are true heroes of Irish society. For that reason, I have been genuinely delighted to support the Teachers Inspire initiative since it launched in 2019. I want to congratulate this years worthy recipients and indeed, every teacher who was nominated. Meanwhile, commenting on the role of teachers in the community, Professor Daire Keogh, President of Dublin City University, said: Teaching is the profession of hope. The impact of teachers on children and young peoples lives, and our society as a whole, cannot be overestimated. They are at the very heart of communities across the country, educating, encouraging and inspiring the next generation. DCU is proud to give recognition to these exceptional educators through Teachers Inspire. The Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme closed on May 22, but is still open to applications from Wicklow farmers for 25 additional days, with deductions to payments. Wicklow IFA Livestock Committee member Sean Cooney has said that suckler farmers in the Garden County have embraced the new Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP), calling it a vital source of income for the modern suckler farmer. The new Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme, which aims to support beef farmers to improve the environmental sustainability of the national beef herd, was launched by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in February, and over 20,000 farmers have applied nationally, accounting for almost 500,000 suckler cows. The new scheme, which replaced the Beef Data Genomics Programme (BDGP), will pay participating farmers 150 per cow on the first 22 cows and 120 per cow on subsequent cows. Commenting on the strong interest shown by Wicklow farmers in the SCEP, suckler farmer Sean Cooney said: The SCEP scheme has had a good uptake across the country, especially in Wicklow, and is a hugely important part of the income a modern suckler farmer can bring in. "I cannot emphasise just how important this money is you wouldnt be able to continue otherwise. The profit margins in beef at the moment are very low because the costs of fertilizers and meal are so high. We have been campaigning for a long time to get 200 per cow, to make farming viable for suckler farmers. Their income has been down a lot in the last couple of years, and we are starting to lose suckler farmers because they cant compete against dairy farmers for renting ground, with some farmers turning to contract rearing calves instead of having sucklers. Even for a small farmer like myself, with 40 cows, the SCEP is worth about 6,500, which is a massive part of my income. So, as a beef farmer and member of the IFA, I would encourage all suckler farmers to get involved in schemes like these. Most of the progressive Wicklow farmers have taken it up, but of course, there are farmers who are sceptical about meeting the requirements. A certain few wont want to become a member of Bord Bia (SBLAS) or may struggle to meet the targets of four and five-star animals that the scheme requires. For me, there must be a core base of suckler farmers left to keep the quality of beef high, which SCEP is supporting. We are constantly trying to push markets for our beef and need suckler cows to produce the quality of beef desired in some markets. Some markets do not want beef that comes from the dairy herd. As a country, we need to support beef farmers. Were constantly out there promoting our grass-fed sucker beef internationally, but we need to be able to back that up by producing it. If we lose that reputation, we will lose markets. We needed to be finding new markets, not losing them. IFA Livestock Chairman, Brendan Golden, added: The number of cows (on SCEP) is an increase from the previous scheme and underlines farmers commitment to the sector, while also showing the critical importance of meaningful direct supports to ensure our suckler herd, which is the foundation of our 2.5bn beef sector, is maintained. Our entire beef sector and the associated jobs are built on the reputation and production systems on suckler farms and these practices are the key selling point used for Irish beef throughout the world. Suckler cow numbers have been in continual decline for over a decade and this must be stopped. The starting point must be the payment in full to the farmers who have applied to the SCEP programme on all cows. Although the application process for SCEP closed on May 22, late applications will still be accepted for an additional 25 days, with deductions to payments at a rate of 1 per cent per working day in respect of SCEP, as set out in SCEP's terms and conditions. Megan Whelan, with her grandparents, Patsy Tracey (who celebrated his 80th. Birthday this week) and Frances Tracey. Staff and students came together to host a beautiful interfaith graduation ceremony with local Catholic priest Terence McGovern PP. and Church of Ireland representative Mr Andrew Pender from Baltinglass, who helped celebrate the wonderful evening of music and memories with teachers, friends and family. Eimear O' Sullivan. An important rite of passage for students was the school lunch, which was cooked and prepared by Ms Tompkins and the transition year students. Sixth-year students and teachers sat down together and enjoyed a three-course feast at lunchtime on their last day to celebrate with their classmates and teachers. The school kept this long-held tradition alive thanks to the hard work of Ms Tompkins and the TY team. Awards were presented by Principal Costello and Vice Principal Burke, with Adam Byrne and Ailbhe Maguire winning awards for academic achievement and Amy Roche and Toby Garland picking up Spirit of the Year awards. Maisaa Murad. A very special mention to our two Syrian twin sisters Hanadi and Maisaa Murad who arrived in Ireland from their war-torn country and joined our school less than four years ago, a school spokesperson said. They arrived with no English language skills and no knowledge of Hacketstown. Thanks to their fellow students, teachers, the whole school community for the welcome, kindness, and encouragement and inclusivity of the wider community in Hacketstown. They have become confident young women who are well able to communicate with everyone. We wish them the very best of luck with their FET nursing course in Carlow. Well done to Mr Kelly and Ms Leeann Cummins on their organisational skills bringing together students from all year groups to sing hymns in harmony and perform some beautiful traditional Irish airs on a wide selection of musical instruments, violin, guitars, tin whistle, flute, concertina, mandolin and mouth organ and some percussion instruments, showcasing the amazing musical talents of all Colaiste Eoin students. We wish the very best for the future to our departing students and are so very proud of them all. Congratulations. Grassland Farmer of the Year Awards 2022 Dairy Enterprise Category Runner-up Kyle and Emma Hanbidge from Kiltegan with sponsors Donal Whelton, AIB, Enda McDonald, Grassland Agro, Michael Berkery, FBD, Charlie McConalogue T.D., Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Prof. Frank O'Mara, Teagasc Director, Aidan Brennan, Irish Farmers Journal & Liam Herlihy, Teagasc Chairman. Photo: O'Gorman Photography Kyle Hanbidge from Kiltegan has been named runner-up in the Dairy Enterprise Category at the prestigious Grassland Farmer of the Year 2022 awards, which took place in Teagasc Moorepark, County Cork. The Grassland Farmer of the Year awards are now in their sixth year and reward the top grassland farmers in the country who are growing and utilising more grass on their farms in a sustainable manner. The awards are supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with an overall prize fund of 25,000. Speaking at the awards ceremony, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D. congratulated all of the finalists on their achievements in grassland management, saying: As finalists you are joining a group of top-class grassland farmers, and I would particularly like to congratulate Diarmaid Fitzgerald on winning the overall Grassland Farmer of the Year Award. Its an achievement you can be really proud of. It is clear that initiatives such as Grass10 and the Grassland Farmer of the Year are to the fore in helping farmers achieve the most they can from the natural resource they have on their farm, which is grass. Good management of grass-clover swards is essential in meeting the targets set down in the AgClimatise Strategy. Speaking on behalf of the competition judges, Aidan Brennan Irish Farmers Journal said: One thing that stood out for the judges this year was a notable shift in attitude towards developing clover on the farm and protecting the environment. This was seen as important as grass production itself and it probably reflects the changing attitude among farmers in general. The fact that the average grass growth among the finalists was 13.5 t DM/ha just shows that you can be very efficient while also being very sustainable. Congratulating the finalists, Liam Herlihy, Teagasc Chairman said: Very well done to all of you, as exceptional farmers doing an excellent job and today is the day to acknowledge this. In relation to the Grass10 programme, the main focus is to challenge four main areas. These areas are specifically: Moving Grassland Knowledge out to the industry; Continuing to increase the usage of PastureBase Ireland; Improving Nutrient Use Efficiency on grassland farms; and in 2023 Increasing the emphasis and adoption of Clover in grassland awards. The Grassland Farmer of the Year awards are part of the Teagasc Grass10 Campaign which is supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Teagasc, AIB, FBD, Grassland Agro and the Irish Farmers Journal. The Grass10 programme continues to focus on improving nutrient management and efficiency on farm and clover establishment and its management. Members of the Class of 1953 with family, friends and Coillte staff during their recent reunion in Avondale hosted by Coillte and the Society of Irish Foresters. Front row: Micheal Mac Giolla Coda, Tony Gallinagh and Nicolas Mc Cormack. Back row: Pat O'Sullivan, Society of Irish Foresters, Gretta Doyle, Beyond the Trees Avondale; Cormac Mac Giolla Coda, Bill Luddy, Paul McCormack, Christy Jeffers, John Mc Loughlin, Pat Halloran, Peter Gallinagh, Philomena Jeffers, Carmel Luddy, Vera Halloran and Rita McMullen, Avondale House Guide. SIX members of the Avondale forestry class of 1953-56 returned to Avondale last week to celebrate their platinum jubilee. In all 18 completed the three-year course which began 70 years ago on May 17, 1953. This would be the last group to complete their studies in Avondale as Kinnity Castle and Shelton Abbey, Arklow were commissioned to handle the larger numbers required to manage the increased planting programme at the time. The Inter-Party Government (1948-51) increased the planting programme to 10,000 hectares or 25,000 acres and this required a big increase in staff. Of the 18 who qualified, eight are still hale and hearty, but two had to cancel their trips. The six who paid a visit to Avondale to mark the occasion, enjoyed the hospitality of their hosts Coillte and the Society of Irish Foresters. The group was extremely impressed by the improvements that have been made at Avondale in the intervening years, especially the house restoration, Seed Cafe and 1.6km canopy walk. All six Micheal MacGiolla Coda, Tony Gallinagh, Nicolas McCormack, Christy Jeffers, Pat Halloran and Wicklow town resident Bill Luddy availed of the canopy walk. They all climbed the viewing tower and three of them even took the slide, the longest in Ireland, led by 92-year-old Nicolas McCormack. They thanked the Society of Irish Foresters and Coillte including staff members Daithi de Forge, Gretta Doyle and Rita McMullen for their hospitality. NOW that the dust has settled on another Darkness into Light, the committee behind the Wicklow town event would like to thank the many people who have helped make the fundraiser such a resounding success. More than 1,500 people participated in the Wicklow Darkness into Light, gathering by the Brass Fox for a bright and early 4.15 a.m. start. Sean Olohan of the Wicklow and District Lions is a member of the Darkness into Light Wicklow Committee and he has several people he would like to thank on behalf of Pieta. First of all we have to thank all the walkers who got up so early to help raise vital funds for Pieta and suicide prevention, he said. We also have to thank all the important Wicklow services such as the Gardai, Fire Service and Order of Malta. The members of Wicklow and District Lions Club who organised the event did a brilliant job, with the support of students and staff at Colaiste Chill Mhantain. Thanks to Robbie and staff in SuperValu for their continuous ongoing support . Robbie was also one of the fastest walkers on the day. A very special thanks to Cheoltas Chill Mhantain for the use of their premises this year and every year. We had a wonderful group of Ukraine ladies who offered their support to the Lions. It was a new and very exciting early morning start for them and their help was greatly appreciated. Some coffee shops opened up at 4 a.m. to help out tired hungry and thirsty walkers. The staff at Nicks Coffee and the early morning staff at The Good Life both kindly donated to DIL. The Brass Fox staff opened up to facilitate the volunteers serve teas and coffees and a selection of refreshments. The welcoming music was kindly supplied by Fergal Canterbury which greatly added to the special atmosphere. The new law has been signed by Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni and carries the death penalty for 'aggravated homosexuality'. Photo: Jack Taylor Uganda has condemned the Western response to the East African countrys new anti-LGBTQ law. The new law is considered one of the harshest in the world, but Uganda said sanctions threats from donors amounted to blackmail. Meet the firm behind our content. Visit their website to see how their services can help your business succeed. Pixabay New Delhi: Registering annual growth rate of 7.5%, Indias exports of goods could reach US$ 773 billion by 2030 with exports to Turkiye, Vietnam and Indonesia to be among the highest-growing export destinations, said a Standard Chartered Bank report on Wednesday. The value of exports of goods from India was US$ 401 billion in 2021. The report titled Future of Trade: New opportunities in high-growth corridors has projected that global trade would reach US$ 32.6 trillion with a growth rate of 5% by 2030. "India will be a key driver of this global trade growth, with its exports of goods projected to grow at an average annual rate of 7.5 per cent (outpacing the global average of 5 per cent) to reach USD 773bn by 2030 from USD 401bn in 2021," the report said. The report noted that while exports of goods to Turkiye, Vietnam and Indonesia are among some of the highest-growing, exports of goods to the US, Mainland China and the UAE will be the highest by volume. "India is expected to grow its exporting sectors by supporting innovation and capacity expansions, as well as building sector ecosystems," the report said. The report said that Indias free trade agreements (FTAs) would increase its competitiveness as a manufacturing and export powerhouse. Gaurav Bhatnagar, Head of Trade and Working Capital, India & South Asia said, As the global economy fully reopens and cross-border trade accelerates, South Asia region is at the heart of global trade growth and is perfectly positioned to be an export powerhouse driven by India and its dominance in key sectors like textiles, metals & minerals, chemicals & pharmaceuticals." (With UNI inputs) Kolkata: Senco Gold & Diamonds has announced that it became the first Qualified Jeweller from East India to import gold on India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX) post ICEGATE integration. Senco Gold & Diamonds, which was notified as a Qualified Jeweller (QJ) by the IFSCA (International Financial Services Centres Authority) in March 2023, is permitted to purchase Bullion Depository Receipt (BDR) on IIBX for import of gold and completed its first trade successfully where the BDR got settled within 30 minutes. With this Senco also became the first company from east India to trade Gold Mini 999 100 grams (gold bars of 999 purity) contract post-ICEGATE implementation. India's first International Bullion Exchange (IIBX) was launched in the GIFT city (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) in July 2022 to act as the Gateway for Bullion Imports into India, with an aim to channelise through the exchange, all the bullion imports for domestic consumption. Indian Customs Electronic Data Interchange Gateway (ICEGATE), the national portal of Indian Customs, an interface between the trade users and Customs Department and which acts as a hub for exchanging information with external trading partners involved in international trading was integrated with IIBX on May 10, 2023 thereby opening up the processes for exporters of jewellery to take advantage of competitive rates when importing gold through IIBX. Senco Gold & Diamonds MD & CEO Suvankar Sen said, The launch of IIBX was indeed an important reform that allowed qualified jewellers to import gold. Being one of the first companies to trade on the platform post-ICEGATE implementation is an important milestone for us at Senco as we believe in staying ahead of the curve and importing gold through the platform gives us the advantage of price discovery and assurance of quality. "We are happy that we could utilise the benefits provided by IIBX and are thankful to IFSCA, Customs authorities, Ashok Gautam and team IIBX Image credit: Wallpaper Flare New Delhi: The Union government on Wednesday declared its plan to invite applications for the implementation of semiconductor and display fabrication units in India starting tomorrow. This announcement follows the reopening of the Modified Semicon India Programme after a 15-month closure. Interested parties will now be able to submit their applications from June 1, 2023. The decision was made after a report by Bloomberg stating that the government had chosen not to extend incentives for the proposed 28-nanometer semiconductor manufacturing facility by Vedanta-Foxconn. The joint venture allegedly failed to meet the requirements regarding the search for a technology partner. However, Vedanta Chief Anil Agarwal has refuted these claims, reported Moneycontrol. Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar has also clarified that the government has not communicated any decision to halt the progress of Vedanta's fab proposal. The India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), which serves as the central agency overseeing the implementation of the Modified Semicon India Programme, will be responsible for receiving and assessing applications related to the establishment of semiconductor and display manufacturing facilities in India. According to a press release by the Ministry of IT and Electronics, the application window of Modified Scheme for setting up of Compound Semiconductors / Silicon Photonics/Sensors Fab/Discrete Semiconductors Fab and Semiconductor ATMP/OSAT facilities in India will remain open till December 2024. The application window of the Design Linked Incentive Scheme will also be open till December 2024. Till now, 26 applications have been received under DLI Scheme and five applications have been granted approval. The Semicon India Programme was first introduced by the government in December 2021, with a budget of Rs 76,000 crore, aimed at promoting the development of the semiconductor and display manufacturing ecosystem in India. However, taking industry feedback into account, the scheme was revised in September 2022 to improve its competitiveness and effectiveness. Under the Modified Scheme of the Semicon India Programme, applicants who had previously applied for Semiconductor Fabs and Display Fab schemes are now eligible to submit new applications. These applicants are required to make necessary modifications to their proposals for setting up Semiconductor Fabs and Display Fabs in accordance with the updated guidelines and requirements of the Modified Scheme. During Vedanta's inaugural town hall meeting with shareholders on May 31, company promoter Anil Agarwal provided reassurance that the plans for the semiconductor project are progressing as scheduled, Moneycontrol reported. The domicile was memorable because it was right next door to the Hi-Way 50 Drive-in Theater and filled my young mind with impractical daydreams of watching free movies from across the fence. Impractical, because (a) I couldn't lip-read and (b) my allowance didn't allow for enough string to run between a speaker and a tin can. Seven years later, my father did take me to the same drive-in to watch "Star Wars." And in 1981 I drove myself there to watch "Raiders of the Lost Ark" all by my lonesome. I eagerly anticipate watching the upcoming Indiana Jones film about the Dial of Destiny, but I'll admit it may trigger flashbacks. For me back in 1981, the Dial of Destiny involved a rotary phone and meekly mumbling, "Oh, well, if I was the last man on earth, could we at least be friends? Wait don't roll a boulder at me!" In 2023, drive-in theaters (including the Hi-Way 50) are gamely hanging on. But barely more than 300 remain in the entire United States (compared to the peak of 4,000 in the late Fifties). Drive-ins were a ubiquitous slice of Americana in the Truman and Eisenhower eras. I've heard tales of my late uncle participating in the widespread practice of sneaking into "the picture show" in the trunk of a friend's car. (Think "prequel to sharing Netflix passwords.") Of course, this was not a particularly healthy stunt, because the capacious trunks of those old vehicles had room enough for that bad influence the Marlboro Man and his horse. Drive-ins were a great summertime getaway from all the "when in the course of human events" and "conceived in liberty" blather from school, although they did generate a plethora of too-much-information "conceived in a Chevy van" anecdotes over the years. Various factors contributed to the decline in the number of drive-ins. These included the wastefulness of using valuable real estate only part of the year, the explosion of cable TV, the shopping mall craze and the exorbitant cost of modernizing projectors. (And the nation's political junkies inevitably bicker, "It was Trump's fault!" "It was Obama's fault!" "I say it was Tippecanoe and Tyler Too's fault!") Mumbai: The Centre has decided to offload a 3 percent stake in state-owned miner Coal India Ltd (CIL) through an offer for sale, starting June 1, media reports said. The government plans to sell approximately 9.24 crore shares, equivalent to about a 1.5% stake, through the Offer for Sale (OFS). If there is oversubscription, an additional 1.5% stake will also be available for sale, as per media reports. The Offer for Sale (OFS) will be conducted on June 1-2 through a dedicated window on the stock exchanges. Non-retail investors will have the opportunity to place their bids on June 1 (T day), while retail investors can participate in the OFS on June 2 (T+1). The floor price for the offer has been set at Rs 225, which represents a discount of approximately 7% compared to the last traded price. At present, the Government of India holds approximately 66% of the company's stake, with the remaining stake being held by public shareholders. During the offer for sale, the allocation of shares will be made at or above the floor price on a price priority basis, except for retail investors. Retail investors will have the option to bid at or above the cut-off price. Approximately 10% of the offer is set aside for retail investors. In the event that the retail category is undersubscribed, the unallocated shares will be allotted to non-retail investors who have opted to carry forward their unallocated bids to the T+1 day. Furthermore, around 5% of the offer size is reserved for employees. These shares will be allotted to employees at the cut-off price determined in the retail category of the offer. A minimum of 25% of the offer shares are allocated for mutual funds and insurance companies. If there is undersubscription in this category, the remaining shares will be made available to other bidders in the non-retail category. New Delhi/IBNS: Art can cohabit with bureaucracy and be more political than cultural, said renowned Italian art critic Achille Bonito Oliva as New Delhi's Bikaner House threw open a grand show of contemporary Italian art from May 26. The Centre for Contemporary Art at the Bikaner House is hosting "The Grand Italian Vision. The Farnesina Collection till June 22, showcasing over 70 masterpieces of modern and contemporary Italian art. Travelling to New Delhi after Tokyo and Singapore, the show highlights the identity of Italian art in the 20th and 21st centuries. They are structured along both figurative and abstract lines. Octogenarian Italian art critic Achille Bonito Oliva, who curated the show, despite his age travelled to New Delhi for the inauguration. "The Farnesina collection is less cultural and more political," he said, adding that art is an instrument for disarmament and can find space in the political scenario and be a tool to promote knowledge. He said the show represents all the 20th century movements - from futurism to the metaphysical to the informal to Arte Povera to most recently the Transavantgarde. Unique Forms of Continuity in Space by artist Umberto Boccioni is one such work at the show. A bronze Eutarascan statue by Michelangelo Pistoletto is also on display. "Art is able to cohabit with bureaucracy and this show is more political than cultural," Oliva said. "Art can do other things, spread information. Art is a massage of the atrophied muscles of collective sensibility. Art has no limits, it has the ability to change things," he said, adding that art can celebrate the value of cohabitation and coexistence. Italian ambassador Vincenzo de Luca speaking at the inauguration said the show also commemorates Italy and India's 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations. The Italian embassy in a release said The Grand Italian Vision. The Farnesina Collection is the enthralling journey through the history of Italian art from the twentieth century to today, through more than seventy works selected by Achille Bonito Oliva from the Farnesina Collection, an extraordinary art collection of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy. The title, The Grand Italian Vision. The Farnesina Collection, highlights the identity of Italian art in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, structured along both figurative and abstract lines, with both eventually flowing into a synthesis that exalts stylistic eclecticism and linguistic contamination, and is sustained by a conceptual basis, the sense of history and indication of a world view. The history of Italian art, its articulation and development over the centuries, has exalted the value of memory in an iconographic fecundity which flourishes to this day, it said. "The Farnesina collection enables us to document this wealth, with evident awareness and cultural depth. Painting, sculpture and photography testify to the continuity and thematic abundance of the various disciplines and trends which, in their formal arrangement, ultimately enable us to speak of a 'grand Italian vision', a grand tour through the vigorous creativity of our country, which has always lauded an ongoing quest for new forms," it said. The exhibition aims to introduce Italian artistic identity to the public at large through works selected from the Farnesina Collection, in a thematic but not chronological arrangement. As one traverses the historical Avant-garde movements, themes that are of global interest are also highlighted. "Visions that range from history to geography, from twentieth-century awareness to the drive towards modernity, from looking inwards to looking out, from environmental emergencies to migrations and new forms of poverty, and then to dialogue and encounter," it said. The artists on exhibition: Carla Accardi Afro Getulio Alviani Matteo Basile Vanessa Beecroft Elena Bellantoni Domenico Bianchi Umberto Boccioni Alighiero Boetti Agostino Bonalumi Danilo Bucchi Alberto Burri Loris Cecchini Mario Ceroli Sandro Chia Sarah Ciraci Francesco Clemente Pietro Consagra Enzo Cucchi Sabrina DAlessandro Gino De Dominicis Nicola De Maria Fortunato Depero Gianni Dessi Irene Dionisio Tano Festa Giuseppe Gallo Alberto Garutti Mimmo Jodice Jannis Kounellis Felice Levini Sergio Lombardo Piero Manzoni Marino Marini Arturo Martini Fabio Mauri Mario Merz Marisa Merz Mirko Maurizio Mochetti Liliana Moro Nunzio Luigi Ontani Mimmo Paladino Giulio Paolini Pino Pascali Luca Maria Patella Achille Perilli Benedetto Pietromarchi Alfredo Pirri Vettor Pisani Michelangelo Pistoletto Piero Pizzi Cannella Fabrizio Plessi Arnaldo Pomodoro Daniele Puppi Mimmo Rotella Pietro Ruffo Alberto Savinio Mario Schifano Marco Tirelli Grazia Toderi Grazia Varisco (Reporting by Sujoy Dhar) Image Credit: Twitter/ S Jaishankar New Delhi/UNI: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will be on an official visit to South Africa from June 1-3 to attend the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting, and to Namibia from June 4-6, in the first visit by an Indian External Affairs Minister to the southern African nation. In South Africa, besides participating in the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting in Cape Town, EAM will also hold a bilateral meeting with his South African counterpart Naledi Pandor. He will call on President Cyril Ramaphosa and is expected to hold bilateral meetings with other BRICS Foreign Ministers and participating Friends of BRICS Ministers from other countries. He will also have an interaction with the Indian Diaspora in Cape Town, a statement said. EAM Jaishankar will then visit Namibia in the first visit by an External Affairs Minister of India to Namibia. During the visit EAM will call on the top leadership of the country and also meet with other Ministers of the Government. EAM will also co-chair the inaugural Session of the Joint Commission Meeting with the Namibian Deputy Prime Minister/ Foreign Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. He will also interact with the Indian Diaspora based in Namibia. EAMs visit to South Africa and Namibia is expected to further strengthen Indias strong bilateral relations with these two countries, the statement added. Image Credit: UNI New Delhi/UNI: Stepping up its attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said there is a group of people who think they know more than "God', and the PM is one such "specimen". "We have a group of people in India who are absolutely convinced that they know everything. They think, maybe, they know more than God. Our Prime Minister is one such specimen," he said while addressing a gathering of the Indian diaspora in San Francisco in the United States, on Tuesday. Attacking the PM, Rahul further said, "I think if you sat Modi ji down next to God, Modi ji will start explaining to God, how the 'universe' works. These all are ...But, this is what is going on." "We have a group of people who think they understand everything. They can speak to scientist and explain science to them, they can speak to historians and explain history. They can explain 'warfare' to the Army. At the heart of it, is the 'mediocrity'. They actually don't understand anything," he added. Citing what necessitated him to do the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra', Rahul said, "All the instruments that were needed to do politics in India, they were controlled by the BJP-RSS. People are threatened, cases are put upon people, agencies are used. In some way it had become difficult to act politically. Therefore, we decided to walk from Kashmir to Kanyakumari." The Yatra-led by the former party president which had started from Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari in September last year, traversed through several states including Karnataka and concluded in Jammu and Kashmir in January. The party had said that was its "most decisive mass contact programme". "Government tried everything to stop 'Bharat Jodo Yatra'. They used all its strength to stop the Yatra. They used police, but nothing worked and the impact of the Yatra had increased," he said. The biggest lesson that I have learnt from the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' is, there is something to learn from everybody, he added. "You cannot cut hatred with hatred. You can only cut hatred with love and affection. Indian people don't believe in hating each other. But, a small group of people who control the system are stoking the flames of hatred," Rahul said, attacking the ruling dispensation. He added, "There are more people who believe in love and affection, more than hatred. We have to challenge it and fight it with affection." In response to a question, the Congress leader said, "We are committed to the Women's Reservation Bill. We wanted to pass it in the last government (UPA), but some of our allies were not too happy with it. But, I am confident when we come to power(in 2024), we will pass the Bill." He said involving women in the political system, businesses and running the country, are the way to give them power. Image: UNI New Delhi/IBNS: Claiming to be the uncle of the 'minor' complainant in the sexual harassment charge against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, Amit Pehlwan, Wednesday said that his niece is actually 20 years old, and is being used by the protesting wrestlers to frame the wrestling body chief. The protesting wrestlers including Olympic medallists Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik and Asian Games gold medalist Vinesh Phogat are demanding the arrest of Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who they have accused of sexually harassing several women including a minor. However, Amit alleged that the wrestlers are engaged in a fraudulent scheme. He said that the age of his brother's daughter (his niece) has been altered to 16 years so that the wrestlers could wrongly exploit the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. According to him, the girl was born on February 22, 2004. "These wrestlers are manipulating my family for their own gain. The alleged victim, whom they claim is a minor, is actually part of my family. She is my niece, and I am her uncle," Amit stated during an interaction with reporters in Rohtak as quoted by editorji.com Claiming that the POCSO Act cannot be applied in this case, as the supposed victim is 20 years old, Amit questioned whether this is a misuse of the provision. Amit, who has a strained relationship with his brother (the girl's father), explained that he became aware of the entire situation only 10 to 15 days ago when the police visited his home as part of their investigation. "A special investigation team (SIT) arrived at our house with two sub-inspectors and two female officers to conduct their inquiry. These wrestlers misled my brother. They are shedding crocodile tears (referring to Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat)," he said. Meanwhile, Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda said Amit Pehlwan's claims are part of a conspiracy by the BJP to reveal the identity of the minor. On Tuesday, the wrestlers, who allege that their protest against the wrestling federation chief has been largely ignored, announced their decision to consign the medals to Ganga Later they shelved their plans to immerse their medals in Ganga at Haridwar after intervention from farmer leader Naresh Tikait. The wrestlers had given a five-day deadline for action against wrestling federation chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. New Delhi/IBNS: India and China held the 27th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on border affairs (WMCC) in person Wednesday in New Delhi, during which they reviewed the situation along the LAC in the Western Sector and discussed proposals for disengagement in the remaining areas in a frank and open manner. Joint Secretary (East Asia) from MEA Shilpak Ambule led the Indian Delegation. The Chinese delegation was led by the DG of Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "The two sides reviewed the situation along the LAC in Western Sector of India-China border areas and discussed proposals for disengagement in remaining areas in a frank and open manner. "Restoration of peace and tranquillity will create conditions for normalising bilateral relations," a statement said. In order to achieve this objective, in accordance with existing bilateral agreements and protocols, they agreed to hold the next (19th) round of Senior Commander's meetings at an early date. The two sides agreed to continue discussions through military and diplomatic channels, it added. India and China held the 18th round of Corps Commander Level Meeting at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Chinese side on April 23 this year. The two countries have been locked in a border row for almost three years along the Line of Actual Control. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during his talks with his Chinese counterpart Li Shangfu as a part of the latters visit to India for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in New Delhi on April 27-28, had categorically conveyed that the development of relations between India and China is premised on the prevalence of peace and tranquillity at the borders. In early March External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had conveyed to his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang that the state of the bilateral relations was abnormal and beset by real problems that need to be looked at, especially the issue of peace and tranquility in the border areas. [With UNI inputs] Image: Twitter/ BJP4India New Delhi/IBNS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday mocked the Congress in Rajasthan, raising questions about the stability of its government and slamming its formula of guarantees which according to him will leave the country bankrupt. On a visit to Ajmer and Pushkar as part of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s public outreach or Jan Sampark Abhiyan, PM Modi ripped into the Congress over corruption. In an apparent reference to the Congress's five guarantees for Karnataka, where it won an election earlier this month, PM Modi said: "The Congress has a new formula of guarantees. But are they fulfilling their guarantees? Their guarantees will leave the country bankrupt." The Congress's election campaign in Rajasthan, led by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, focuses on social welfare schemes ranging from free electricity to cheaper cooking gas. "Fifty years ago, Congress guaranteed that it would remove poverty. But it turned out to be their biggest betrayal of the poor," PM Modi said. "It has been a policy of the Congress to mislead the poor and keep them deprived. The people of Rajasthan have also suffered a lot due to this...And what has Rajasthan got? A government where MLAs, CM (Chief Minister), and ministers fight among themselves," he said. Our country never had a shortage of money for development work.... Congress is a party that takes a cut of 85% commission in every project. We were able to do development because we plugged the leakages created by the Congress party. - PM @narendramodi #RajasthanWithBJP BJP (@BJP4India) May 31, 2023 The remarks referred to the Congress's Ashok Gehlot versus Sachin Pilot feud, which remains unresolved despite multiple attempts and a show of unity on Monday Rajasthan goes to polls later this year. This was PM Modi's fourth visit this year to Rajasthan. The rally also marked nine years of the BJP government at the Centre. Unsplash/Micha Brandli North Korea has claimed an accident occurred when it planned to send up its first space satellite which crashed into the sea. Pyongyang announced earlier it planned to launch a satellite by 11 June to monitor US military activities, reports BBC. The nation said it will attempt to send the satellite once again in future. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said it detected the launch from Tongchang-ri on the North's west coast at 6:29 a.m. and the projectile fell into waters some 200 kilometers west of the South's southwestern island of Eocheong following its flight over the waters far west of the border island of Baengnyeong, reports Yonhap news agency. The South Korean military identified an apparent part of the North's vehicle and retrieved it, the JCS added. The part could shed light on the makeup of the rocket and the North's technological progress, observers said. Image: IAEA/Fredrik Dahl New York: The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Tuesday urged the UN Security Council to unambiguously support five principles aimed at preventing a nuclear accident amid the war in Ukraine, now in its 15th month. Delivering his latest update, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi reported that the situation at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) the largest in Europe - remains extremely fragile and dangerous. Military operations continue in the region and may well increase very considerably in the near future, he warned. Rolling the dice The Zaporizhzhya plant has come under fire during the war. It has lost off-site power seven times and had to rely on emergency diesel generators the last line of defence against a nuclear accident, he said. We are fortunate that a nuclear accident has not yet happened, Mr. Grossi told ambassadors. As I said at the IAEA Board of Governors last March - we are rolling a dice and if this continues then one day, our luck will run out. So, we must all do everything in our power to minimize the chance that it does. A specific request Mr. Grossi recalled that the Ukraine conflict marks the first time in history that a war is being fought amid the facilities of a major nuclear power programme. He said several of the countrys five nuclear plants and other facilities have come under direct shelling, and all nuclear plants have lost off-site power at some point. The IAEA has maintained a presence at the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant since September. The site was occupied by Russian forces in the early days of the conflict, with a significantly reduced Ukrainian staff carrying out operations. Throughout the conflict, the IAEA chief has repeatedly promoted seven indispensable pillars for nuclear safety and security, which include maintaining the physical integrity of facilities and ensuring secure off-site power supply. The time has come to be more specific as to what is required. We must prevent a dangerous release of radioactive material, he said. Five concrete principles Following extensive consultations, including with the sides, Mr. Grossi developed five concrete principles essential for averting a catastrophic incident at the Zaporizhzhya plant. There should be no attack of any kind from or against the plant, in particular targeting the reactors, spent fuel storage, other critical infrastructure, or personnel, he said, outlining the first point. The nuclear plant also should not be used as storage or a base for heavy weapons, such as multiple rocket launchers, or military personnel that could be used for an attack emanating from it. Off-site power to the plant should not be put at risk, and all efforts should be made to ensure supply remains available and secure at all times, he said. Furthermore, all structures, systems and components essential to the safe and secure operation of the plant should be protected from attacks or sabotage. Finally, no action should be taken that undermines the principles. Let me say something very clearly: These principles are to no ones detriment and to everyones benefit. Avoiding a nuclear accident is possible. Abiding by the IAEAs five principles is the way to start, said Mr. Grossi. Principles are aligned: Russia Russian Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya said his country has made every effort to prevent threats to the safety of the Zaporizhzhya plant, which he attributed to Ukraine and its Western backers. The shellings carried out by Ukraine of the power plant are absolutely unacceptable, and Mr. Grossi's proposals to ensure the security of the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant are in line with the measures that we've already been implementing for a long time, in accordance with decisions taken at the national level, he said. He added that no attacks were ever carried out from the territory of the plant. Additionally, heavy weapons or munitions were never placed there, nor are there any military personnel present who could be used to carry out an attack. In the current conditions, Russia intends to take all possible measures to strengthen the safety and security of the power plant in accordance with our national legislation and our obligations under relevant international legal instruments to which our country is a party, he said. Withdraw from the plant: Ukraine Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya also addressed the Council. He said Russia continues to use the nuclear plant for military purposes and has deployed roughly 500 military personnel and 50 units of heavy weaponry there, as well as equipment, munitions and explosives. We reiterate that by illegally occupying ZNPP and making it an element of its military strategy, Russia has violated all key international principles of nuclear safety and security and the vast majority of its obligations under international treaties, he said. Mr. Kyslytsya recommended that the IAEA principles should also include withdrawal of Russian troops and personnel illegally present at the plant, guarantees of uninterrupted power supply to the facility, and a humanitarian corridor to ensure the safe and orderly rotation of staff. Image: UNICEF/Hasan Belal New York: Action on the ground must match diplomacys steadily advancing gains towards ending the 12-year-old war in Syria, where violence is once again, killing a growing numbers of civilians, the top UN official in the country said on Tuesday. It is vital that the recent diplomatic moves are matched with real action, said Geir Pedersen, the UN Secretary-Generals Special Envoy for Syria, briefing the Security Council on recent political and humanitarian developments. A range of diplomatic initiatives have quickened the pace towards finding solutions on, among other things, continuing a direct dialogue with the Government of Syria, including such concerns raised in Security Council resolution 2254 as territorial integrity, and working towards national reconciliation. In the last month, Moscow hosted a meeting of the foreign ministers of Iran, Russia, Syria, and Turkiye, and Amman held a meeting with counterparts from Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Syria. The League of Arab States adopted related resolutions in Cairo, and an Arab Ministerial Liaison Committee was established to continue the direct dialogue with the Syrian Government. During the same period, the President of Syria participated in the Arab League Summit in Jeddah. Danger of status quo Common attention to these themes and points [of discussions] could present a real opportunity to move forward, he said, but, he said in his discussions with key ministers involved in seeking a diplomatic solution, he has made clear that I appreciate the dangers of the status quo both for the Syrian people and for regional and other actors, who want to curb instability. If substantive issues begin to be addressed, even if incrementally, this new dynamic could create much-needed momentum, he said, anticipating his continued engagement with Syrian parties, the Arab, Astana, and Western players, and the Security Council. Even minimal progress in implementing resolution 2254 will require the confidence and resources of many different players, and serious action, he said. Against this backdrop, he said the Syrian people continue to suffer on a massive scale. Syrian refugees had voiced their desire to return, but in 2023, only a small fraction indicated their wish to return in the coming year. Lack of livelhood opportunities, a fragile security situation, and fears of arbitrary detention were among the top reasons why, he said. As such, confidence-building measures and the political process must be a focus, and if the Syrian Government were to start to address in a more systematic manner the protection concerns of the displaced working closely with the UN, and if donors were to help the UN to do more to address the concerns all Syrians have about livelihoods, the reality on the ground could change for all Syrians, bringing about a safer and calmer environment across the country. Warning of recent reports on the further increase in poverty, he said the cumulative effects of war, drug trafficking, the war in Ukraine, and other drivers, are real concerns. Currently, violence continues to cause civilian deaths at a time when humanitarian needs have never been higher, he said, underlining an urgent need to establish a national ceasefire. Syria must remain a global priority Ghada Eltahir Mudawi, Deputy Director of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), said Syrians need the support of the international community now more than at any time in the past 12 years. The humanitarian crisis in Syria must remain a global priority, she said, outlining the current landscape, where after a dozen years of conflict, the vast majority of the Syrian population continues to face daily challenges to meet the most basic food, health, and shelter needs. A staggering 15.3 million people require humanitarian assistance throughout the country, representing nearly 70 per cent of Syrias population. For the first time in the history of the crisis, people across every sub-district in Syria are experiencing some degree of humanitarian stress, she said, adding that the earthquakes earlier this year compounded this already bleak humanitarian situation, with more than 330,000 people remaining displaced, and thousands more without access to basic services and livelihoods. Matter of life and death While the UN and partners continue large-scale efforts to respond to the most urgent humanitarian needs, continued support from donors and this Council will be crucial to address ongoing essential needs, she said, noting that the preliminary Syria Earthquake Recovery Needs Assessment has estimated almost $9 billion in damage and losses, and $14.8 billion in recovery needs over the next three-year period. Tweet URL A 12-month extension of the Security Councils authorization of the cross-border mechanism is indispensable, she stressed. It is a matter of life and death for millions of people in northwest Syria, she cautioned. The situation in Syria is too fragile, the needs are too great and too many lives are at stake not to ensure sustained humanitarian access via every possible modality, including cross-border and cross-line missions, she added. Calling for greater solidarity and urgently increased humanitarian funding to save lives and prevent further suffering, she said that while efforts continue to achieve a lasting political solution, we must ensure that the urgent needs of women, men and children of Syria life-saving aid and early recovery are prioritized and adequately resourced. They are counting on your support to stay the course, she said. In other business In other business this morning, the Security Council considered two draft resolutions, unanimously adopting one that renewed the UN mission in Iraq, UNAMI. By a vote of 10 in favour, with 5 abstentions (China, Gabon, Ghana, Mozambique, Russia), the Council also adopted a draft resolution renewing the South Sudan sanctions regime, with some members expressing concerns that the measures would have a negative socioeconomic impact on the South Sudanese people. Representational image by Huzaifakumo via Wikimedia Commons Lagos: A large number of Nigerians have expressed their anger on social media platforms over Chinese illegal mining activities in Lagos and Osun communities, media reports said. Expressing their displeasure through the Twitter hashtag #StopChineseIllegalMining, the protesters stated that Chinese miners have made themselves lords of the Nigerian natural resources which belong to the people and government, reports Nigerian Tribune Online as quoted by ANI. They also called on the necessary government agencies to check the activities of the miners at the China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) in Lagos and others in the Osun communities of Nigeria. Marching with pride to protect our soil and environment. Chinese illegal mining has gone too far, and its time to end it. Together, we can restore balance, a tweet said as quoted by ANI. Another tweet read No more exploitation! Chinese illegal mining is depleting our natural resources. Lets raise awareness and support sustainable practices. Join the movement today. Pixabay Peshawar: At least five Pakistani Custom officials were injured when unidentified attackers opened fire at them in Mattani area of Pakistan on Saturday, media reports said. Mattani police told Dawn News a customs team performing duty on the Indus Highway came under attack at around 22:20 hours. "Five of them sustained injuries in the attack, but all of them were out of danger, Jawad Khan, a Mattani police station official, told Dawn. He said the customs officials were attacked from two different locations on the main highway. He added that the customs personnel retaliated, but the armed men escaped. The injured people were rushed to hospital for treatment. Officials started searching the area after the attack. Image: Free Baloch Movement Twitter page London: The Free Balochistan Movement members demonstrated on May 28 in Germany, the UK and the Netherlands to mark Aashrokh the day of mourning in Balochistan, media reports said. The Free Balochistan Movement activists and members of the Baloch community gathered outside the central station of Hanover in Germany, 10 Downing Street in London and Dam Square in the Netherlands to hold protest against Pakistans nuclear tests in Balochistan which were conducted on 28 May 1998, reports ANI. The protesters were seen carrying various kinds of banners and posters during the demonstration. Baloch leaders including Abu Bakr Baloch, Daniyal Baloch, Beebagr Baloch, Abdul Khaliq, Khudadad Baloch and Muhammad Bakhsh Raji Baloch spoke during a protest held in Germany to highlight the after-effects of Pakistans nuclear tests on the residents of Chaghai and rest of Balochistan, reports ANI. FBM is protesting in front of 10 Downing Street, to draw attention to the serious HR violations in occupied Balochistan perpetrated by the Pakistani army. Also to shed light on the consequences of the Pakistani nuclear test carried out in occupied Balochistan on May 28, 1998. pic.twitter.com/JK67EvJHM3 Free Balochistan Movement (@FreeBaluchMovt) May 28, 2023 The group demonstrated in Dam Square of the Netherlands on the same day. The FBM activists chanted slogans against Pakistan and termed its nuclear weapons anti-humanity and anti-peace adding that Pakistan has been blackmailing the world in the name of its dirty nukes. Speaking at this protest, the speakers said that Pakistan has no interest in what has happened to the Baloch nation and its land and air environment due to nuclear weapons experiments, reports ANI. Free Balochistan Movement UK Branch also organised a protest demonstration outside the UK PMs official residence at 10 Downing Street on Sunday, the Indian news agency reported. Image: Pixabay A large number of ethnic minority Muslims surrounded a mosque in southwestern China recently as they tried to stop the attempt by authorities to remove its dome and minarets, media reports said. The apparent alteration of a mosque belonging to the Hui ethnic group in Najiaying village, Yunnan province comes amid a sweeping campaign unleashed by Chinas leader Xi Jinping to sinicize religion, reports CNN. The policy aims to purge religious faiths of foreign influence and align them more closely with traditional Chinese culture and the authoritarian rule of the officially atheist Communist Party, the American news channel reported. In recent years, authorities have removed overtly Islamic architecture destroying domes and tearing down minarets from more than a thousand Hui mosques across the country, Hui activists told CNN, with the Najiaying mosque being one of the last holdouts. Now, the sinicization campaign appears to be finally coming for Najiaying a historic home to the Hui and an important hub for Islamic culture in Yunnan, an ethnically diverse province on Chinas borders with Southeast Asia. However, the attempt has received fierce backlash from locals. Videos posted on social media and geolocated by CNN show residents clashing with lines of police officers in riot gear, who blocked off the entrance to the mosque and pushed back the crowd with shields and batons. Residents shouted back in anger, with some hurling water bottles and bricks at the police, the videos show. This is our last bit of dignity, a local witness told CNN. Its like coming to our house to demolish our home. We cant allow that to happen. The source, who declined to be named over fears for personal safety, told CNN thousands of Hui residents including men and women, elderly and children had gathered around the mosque on Saturday, under the close watch of more than 1,000 police officers deployed nearby. After arriving at the mosque, we realized that they had driven the cranes into the compound and were ready for the forced demolition, the source said, adding that scaffolding had already been erected around the mosque. By Isaac White The Honorable Marco Mendicino, Canadas Minister of Public Safety, together with the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service and Grand Chief Abram Benedict, held a press conference on May 25th. During this meeting, Minister Mendicino unveiled a sizeable funding package of over $12 million. The aim of this funding is to augment community safety in Akwesasne and more effectively combat community and organized crime. Public Safety Canada is renewing funding of $10.4 million to the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service through the Akwesasne Organized Crime Initiative (AOCI). This allocation supports a dedicated team specifically tasked with fighting serious and organized crime in and around the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory. This initiative reinforces the collaborative effort to ensure community safety and security. In addition to the AOCI funding, Public Safety Canada is allocating one-time funding of over $849,000 to the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne. This funding comes under the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program. It will be used to purchase necessary equipment, such as an airboat, vehicles, firearms and tasers, and forensic equipment and materials. This investment will boost the councils ability to provide comprehensive policing services. Akwesasne will also receive up to $1.13 million through the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF). This fund is designed to assist communities like the Akwesasne Mohawks in addressing the underlying conditions that contribute to crime. Community-led projects will be the main recipients of this funding, reflecting the governments strategy to involve local communities in crime reduction initiatives. During his visit, Minister Mendicino met with elders and Council Chiefs at the Tsi Snaihne Homemakers to discuss current public safety concerns in the community. Additionally, the Minister was offered a brief tour of Akwesasne, in hopes it will further his understanding of the community and its specific needs. The substantial funding dedicated to the Akwesasne Organized Crime Initiative is sourced from the Contribution Program to Combat Serious and Organized Crime (CPCSOC). However, no specific details were shared about the exact organized crime operations within or connected to Akwesasne that will be targeted by this initiative. This significant funding announcement underscores the commitment of the federal government to combat organized crime and support indigenous communities in their pursuit of a safer environment. This initiative will provide critical resources for law enforcement and highlights the crucial role of cultural context and community engagement in creating a more secure future. According to the officials, this initiative holds its foundation in Mohawk Culture and Traditions. When questioned about how this cultural approach will be integrated into the program, Grand Chief Abram Benedict affirmed that the Aboriginal Rights and Research Office (ARRO) will play a crucial role. They have already developed training material for officers and others who require preparation for Mohawk cultural training. The Grand Chief emphasized that ARRO would lead the determination of Mohawk Culture and Tradition in this initiative. Grand Chief Benedict highlighted that the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne is already deeply involved in community engagement activities. He affirmed that these initiatives would continue, fostering a collaborative approach to safeguarding their culture and traditions while enhancing community safety. 2023-2024 Budget Approved $4.1 million for Indigenous Education supports May 26, 2023 Trustees with the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) met on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. Some of the items discussed in the public session are as follows. 2023-2024 Budget Approved Executive Superintendent of Business Services Jeremy Hobbs presented to Trustees the proposed budget for the 2023-2024 school year. This comes after regular budget-related reports over the last several months. Hobbs noted that the total proposed budget sits at $424.2 million. This proposed budget is compliant with the Ministry of Education requirements. $424 million of the budget will go toward expenses and the UCDSB anticipates a surplus of $200,000 to remain compliant. Highlights of the proposed budget include: $53.7 million for Special Education, a 7.4 per cent increase and includes a full-year implementation of the Power Up 2 (P2) program expansion. The Special Education budget represents 12.8 per cent of the boards expense budget; $4.1 million for Indigenous Education supports, which includes $1.3 million in one-time mitigation funding to offset the Ministry of Educations funding model change; $1.6 million in continued investment in student technology and IT infrastructure; $1.5 million in math recovery support for students from the Ministry of Education; $1.2 million investment in literacy support from the Ministry of Education for reading activities, screening tools, and software licenses; and $1.2 million for mental health and well-being support. The proposed budget adequately addresses foreseeable financial risks for 2023-2024 in estimating Special Incidence Portion, transportation, and the application of Indigenous education and math funding. Also noted in the proposed budget is $58 million for planned investments in school and child care capital construction, additions, improvements, and retrofits. Additionally, $2.1 million has been allocated for Experiential/Real-World Learning, Specialist High Skills Major, and Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program opportunities for students, which is directly tied to the priorities outlined in the Directors Work Plan. Trustees voted in favour of the budget. It will now go to the Ministry of Education for final approval. Directors Work Plan Update Executive Superintendent of Student Success and Innovation Eric Hardie provided an update on the Directors Work Plan Student Success goal of a 90 per cent graduation rate and the Authentic Student Learning Experience (ASLE) Tool. Hardie explained that when the district has lost students, the district cant re-engage them by offering them more of the same. The district has to meet them in the middle ground, between their skills, talents and the curriculum. ASLE is a responsive, individualized strategy, capturing new learning and is an umbrella tool that takes pieces from a variety of Ministry of Education documents and centres them in a process to engage or re-engage students. The ministry provides a general direction on what to do, but its the districts job to figure out the how. ASLE is a responsive, individualized strategy, capturing new learning that turns students who would not otherwise graduate into graduates, prevents at-risk students from dropping out, validates a students learning outside of school, makes them feel heard, and provides them with a structure to achieve their pathway. Trustee Vacancy Update Chair of the Upper Canada District School Board John McAllister provided an update on the Ward 7 Trustee vacancy and the next steps. Earlier this month, Larry Berry announced that he would be stepping down from his trustee position due to personal reasons. McAllister advised that the vacancy will be shared with each school council and parent involvement committee, posted on the UCDSB website and social media accounts and shared with local media and municipalities. The timeline for applications is May 25 to June 6. Full details on presentations, reports, and discussions can be found in the agenda or reviewed in the recorded broadcast online. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department is in the midst of an unprecedented mission involving around 300 personnel and three kumki elephants. They have been deployed in Cumbum, in Theni District, close to the border with Kerala since Saturday when Arikomban entered the town and ran amok, injuring three people. INDIATIMES One of the persons, Palraj, who was injured on Saturday, died at the Theni Medical College on Tuesday morning. Rice-raiding wild elephant Arikomban Arikomban, as it is popularly called in Kerala, is a rogue tusker that has become notorious for its love for rice and had been frequently raiding houses and shops in its original habitat in Chinnakanal, near Munnar, in search of rice. A tribal settlement called 301 Colony was the rogue tusker's favourite hunting ground, where it destroyed dozens of houses and shops over the years in search of rice. BCCL According to locals, over ten people have also been killed in attacks by Arikomban so far. Around 30 wild elephants in the area are in small herds and several lone tuskers like Arikomban that often cross paths with humans. Nobody knows how and when Arikomban picked up its rather strange liking for rice, but the elephant has been raiding houses and shops in search of it since at least 2017. BCCL In 2017, the Forest Department had tried to capture Arikomban in Chinnakanal, but the mission failed after the tranquillizer darts failed to daze the young bull. Calls for the capture of Arikomban started getting louder again in late 2022 after its raids at homes and shops became a nearly-daily affair. Under growing pressure, the Kerala government in March ordered its capture. But before it could be captured, some animal lovers challenged the government's decision in the Kerala High Court and got a favourable verdict. While the HC allowed the Kerala Forest Department to capture Arikomban, it clearly said that the elephant should not be kept in captivity but has to be radio-collared and relocated to another forest. BCCL Failed translocation of Arikomban An HC-appointed expert committee had recommended that the elephant be relocated to Parambikulam Tiger Reserve in Palakkad district, which was over 250 km from Chinnakanal. However, the news that the highly dangerous elephant will be brought to Parambikulam resulted in protests by locals there. Nearly forty days after the Kerala government ordered the capture of Arikomban, on April 29, it was tranquillized and moved out. Instead of Parambikulam, the elephant was shifted to Periyar Tiger Reserve in Idukki district, which was just over a hundred kilometres from Chinnakanal. BCCL Despite the warning from experts that if released in such a close area, Arikomban will try to return to its original habitat, the Kerala Forest Department was confident about keeping it under control in its new environment. But this didn't last long as just days after being released into the wild, Arikomban strayed into a forest on the Tamil Nadu side from where it could further move towards Chinnakanal. This did not happen, and after nearly a week in Meghamalai, Arikomban had returned to Periyar Tiger Reserve. And earlier this week, it tried to enter human settlements near Kumily town in Kerala twice, after which it was chased back into the forest. Arikomban becomes a problem for Tamil Nadu This time Arikomban ventured deep inside the forest and crossed over to the Tamil Nadu side before the Kerala Forest Department could notice and stop its movement. Arikomban, which terrorised Cumbum town on Saturday, has been playing hide and seek with Tamil Nadu Forest Department ever since. INDIATIMES The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has said that it will be captured and relocated only if Arikomban enters human settlements again. Arikomban is not the only rice-loving jumbo with a Kerala and Tamil Nadu connection. Tamil Nadu's Arisi Raja captured in Kerala In January this year, the Kerala Forest Department had captured a Makhna elephant (tuskless male elephant) from Sulthan Bathery town of Wayanad after it charged at a human at night. INDIATIMES Initially, the Forest Department was clueless about the elephant's identity as they had no records of this particular jumbo. Later it emerged that the elephant was PM-2 (Pandalur Makhna-2), a Makhna elephant blamed for the death of two people in Tamil Nadu's Pandalur. Like Arikomban, PM-2 was called 'Arisi Raja' (rice king) in Gudalur area in Tamil Nadu, where it had destroyed several houses in search of rice. In December 2022, Arisi Raja was captured by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department. After two weeks in the Mutumalai elephant camp, it was fitted with a radio collar and released back into the wild. PM-2, currently in captivity in the Muthanga Elephant camp in Wayanad, is set to undergo kumki training later. Original Arisi Raja is now a kumki elephant PM-2, however, is not the original 'Arisi Raja', and that title was first held by another rice-loving tusker in Tamil Nadu's Pollachi. BCCL This elephant, too, was fond of rice and had a history of raiding houses and fields. In November 2019, it was captured by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department after it killed two people. The elephant was shifted to Varagaliyar elephant camp, where it underwent kumki training. Ironically, the elephant, now called Muthu, is currently in Cumbum and is one of the three kumki elephants deployed to capture Arikomban. For more on news, sports and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. Touted as the Scariest trek in Meghalaya, the Mawryngkhang trek involves crossing bridges made of bamboo over deep gorges, roaring rivers and steep mountain ridges. The trail to the Mawryngkhang rock/ Instagram This exhilarating trek has a Khasi legend behind it all. Legend behind Mawryngkhang Folk tales are abundant in the Khasi community; in these stories, inanimate objects are often personified. In the legend behind Mawryngkhang, stones have been personified, and a tale formed around them. The Khasi legend thus goes that there was once a big battle between two stones - Mawryngkhang and Mawpator - who had both fallen in love with a beautiful rock named Kthiang from the neighbouring kingdom. U Mawryngkhang defeated U Mawpator in this battle and hurled his head down the deep gorge. Mawryngkhang actually means "King of Stones" and is the mightiest stone on the trek. In fact, this stone itself is the pinnacle of the trek and behind it lies the Kthiang stone. At a viewpoint on the way to the top of the trek, locals believe that one can see the fallen rock. Locals' initiative The bamboo bridges that make the trek possible were built entirely by the locals. They did so by tying bamboos together with cane ropes, using their traditional knowledge. This trek was opened to the public in 2016 to generate income for Wahkhen village. The trek The Mawryngkhang Trek starts from Wahkhen Village in Meghalaya's Pynursla Tehsil of East Khasi Hills district. This is at a distance of 42 km from Shillong. The Trek/ www.taleof2backpackers.com From the village, the first pitstop is the Wahrew River at a distance of 0.05 km, and a bamboo bridge is built over the river. Post this, the real part of the trek begins, with an ascending trail along the cliff and the river on the left. It is along this track that one can find man-made bamboo bridges. After a steep climb is the Mawkhlieng Cliff - which is near-vertical and therefore makes for insane views. Only the bamboo walkways make it possible to traverse this part of the cliff. This indeed provides for an unmatched adrenaline rush. After that comes the Mawmoit viewpoint, beyond which lies the U Mawryngkhang. To reach the U Mawryngkhang, one has to make their way further through a descending trail, squeeze underneath rocks and cross more bamboo bridges placed in precarious areas. The Scariest Trek in Meghalaya/ Instagram U Mawryngkhang is a sight that leaves one speechless - from deep valleys to high green mountains. But it is the trek to reach it that makes this the "scariest trek in Meghalaya." For more on news, sports and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News. Leading computer scientists and technologists have sounded the alarm on artificial intelligence, claiming that AI poses a "risk of extinction." "Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, said a group of AI experts in a statement released by the Center for AI Safety, a research and advocacy group. Unsplash Urging countries to regulate AI Among the signatories are OpenAI CEO Sam Altman (yes, from the same company that's behind ChatGPT), the "godfather of AI" Geoffrey Hinton, Taiwan's digital minister Audrey Tang, and the musician Grimes, among many. This is the not the first warning of its kind. In March, an open letter signed by Elon Musk and other figures including Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak called for a six-month halt on the development of AI that is more advanced than OpenAI's GPT-4. Also read: Google's Sundar Pichai Says 'AI Is Too Important Not To Regulate Well' Reuters "Powerful AI systems should be developed only once we are confident that their effects will be positive and their risks will be manageable," the letter said. The development of AI tools has increased concerns about potential negative consequences for society, including loss of livelihood to the spread of misinformation. While AI tools are still far from exercising independent decision-making and general intelligence, Microsoft researchers in March said that GPT-4 showed signs of AGI (artificial general intelligence) and was capable of solving "novel and difficult tasks that span mathematics, coding, vision, medicine, law, psychology and more, without needing any special prompting." Reuters More public figures are joining the call to regulate AI as governments scramble to deal with the emerging technology. The "godfather of AI" Geoffrey Hinton left Google last month and said that he'd spend his time advocating the risk of AI. Also read: ChatGPT's Misjudgment: AI Tool Wrongly Fails More Than Half A Class For Cheating OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has urged the United States Congress to develop regulations for AI, recommending a licensing-based approach. The European Union is also planning to pass legislation by the end of this year that would classify AI into four categories based on the risks posed by such tools. What do you think about the dangers of AI to humanity? Let us know in the comments below. For more in the world of technology and science, keep reading Indiatimes.com. Tragically, a 1-year-old child in Washington State died after being left unattended inside a car for nine hours while their foster mother worked a shift at a local hospital. According to the police, the foster mother unintentionally forgot about the toddler in the car as she arrived at Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup. After completing her shift, she discovered the child's presence in the car and urgently brought them to the hospital. "The child was unresponsive, and they attempted life-saving measures," Bourbon says, but the child did not survive. Despite the temperature in Puyallup, which was in the mid-70s, the temperature inside the vehicle where the child was left exceeded 100 degrees, as reported by investigators. It is worth noting that the foster mother works as a social worker at the hospital. Talking to people, the hospital said, "A tragic incident took place at the Good Samaritan campus Wednesday involving an employee and their child," "This incident also impacted a number of our other team members. MultiCare has offered a number of paths for support for our employees. We extend our condolences to everyone involved." According to Police Captain Bourbon, the foster mother and her husband, who served as foster parents for the child, have fully cooperated with the ongoing investigation. KOMO News has reported that the couple had another child under their care, but that child has now been taken back into the custody of child services. The investigation is still in progress, and once it concludes, the Pierce County Prosecutor's Office will decide whether to pursue charges in this tragic incident. "We all are hectic in our lives," Bourbon says. "We all have a lot going on. And this unfortunate situation is that, hopefully, it reminds us to take a step back, slow down, and make sure that we are taking care of our families and taking care of each other." Unsplash According to Kids and Car Safety, at least six children have tragically died this year due to vehicular heat stroke. In response to these incidents, the police are urging everyone to prioritize the safety of young children and pets by never leaving them unattended inside a vehicle, regardless of the outside temperature. The Seattle Fire Department emphasizes that it doesn't have to be a hot day for the temperature inside a car to reach dangerous levels that can cause heat stroke. In just 10 minutes, a car can heat up by 19 degrees, as stated in the department's safety guidelines. It is important to note that cracking a window does not alleviate the heat inside the vehicle. The department highlights that young children are particularly vulnerable to heat-related risks, as their bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults. This information underscores the importance of taking extra precautions to ensure the well-being of young children in vehicles. For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram. Last year, Elon Musk became the world's first person to lose $200 billion net worth, which also saw him lose the title of being world's richest person to Bernard Arnault. In the past seven months, billionaire Elon Musk has lost that title thrice to Bernard Arnault and regained it once in February this year. But now, the worlds second richest person seems set to reclaim the title once more. Elon Musk On The Verge Of Reclaiming World's Richest Title indiatimes This comes amid a surge in Tesla shares due to CEO Musks ongoing visit to China, which is his first in three years. Shares of Tesla jumped more than 4% yesterday amid Musk's China visit wherein he met Chinas Foreign Minister Qin Gang. The jump in Tesla shares also soared Elon Musk's wealth by $4.86 billion yesterday. Musk's networth stands at $190 billion currently (as per Bloomberg billionaire index), whereas first placed Bernard Arnault's net worth is $192 billion. Also Read: How A 68YO Fan Of Elon Musk Gained 2,900% On Tesla Stock Only To See $1.5 Million Of It Get Wiped Away Elon Musk's Visit To China AP The visit comes as Beijing is pushing to show it is open to foreign business, and as Musk reportedly signaled further expansion of his companys business in China, as per CNBC report. Qin, who was until recently Chinas ambassador to the U.S., said Chinese-style modernization, characterized by a huge population and common prosperity will create unprecedented growth potential and market demand, according to a statement from the Chinese foreign ministry. He added that Chinas electric vehicle market has broad prospects for development and that China will continue to open up and create a better market-oriented and law-based business environment for foreign firms like Tesla. According to the Chinese foreign ministry statement, Musk praised the Chinese people and Chinas achievements. Tesla opposes decoupling and is willing to continue to expand its business in China, the statement said. The meeting between Musk and Qin comes at a time of continued tensions between the U.S. and China over technology. Last year, Washington enacted sweeping export restrictions on key chips and semiconductor equipment to China, in a move that could hobbles Beijings attempts to boost its domestic industry in a critical technology, as per the report. This month, Chinese regulators barred operators of critical information infrastructure in China from buying products from U.S. chipmaker Micron. The Chinese foreign minister on Tuesday said that a constructive U.S. and China relationship is in the interest of both countries and the world. China Visit Comes Amid Increasing Competition & Price War On Teslas side, billionaire Musks visit on Tuesday comes as the company faces heightened competition and a price war in China. Tesla has been adjusting the prices of its cars in China amid a tougher macroeconomic environment in the worlds second-largest economy, the report mentioned. However, the Chinese foreign ministry statement did not supply much detail on what was discussed between Musk and Qin. AP China is Teslas second-biggest market, and Musk has sought to maintain good relations with Beijing. The billionaire has pledged investments over the years and praised the countrys technology. China rocks in my opinion, Musk had reportedly said in 2020. Teslas biggest car production factory is in Shanghai, and the company in April announced plans to build another plant locally to manufacture its Megapack energy storage system. Now it remains to be seen what exactly the billionaire plans to do amid his visit to China, but Tesla shares surely are enjoying being in green amid the visit, which has also surged its CEO's wealth and pushed him closer to reclaiming world's richest title. Also Read: Why Apple CEO Tim Cook Once Rejected Elon Musk's Offer To Acquire Tesla For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here In the meeting he had with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang yesterday, Elon Musk expressed to him the desire of his group to continue to develop its activities in China The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vassilis Kaskarelis, is expected to have a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Albania , Olta Xhacka, on the sidelines of his participation in the informal Summit of NATO in Oslo By Dan Kovalik and Rick Sterling May 30, 2023: Information Clearing House -- " DV " -- May of this year, we took the long, 27-hour train ride from Moscow to Crimea to see how life is there and what the sentiment of the people are as the US and Ukraine sharpen their threats to recapture this peninsula from Russia. And, while we were there, these threats were backed by a series of terrorist drone attacks in Crimea which, while doing little serious damage, signaled an escalation in the US/Ukrainian assault on Crimea. Despite such threats and attacks, what we found in this historic peninsula on the Black Sea was a beautiful, almost idyllic place with a bustling economy and a general sense of prosperity and hopefulness. We also found a people who seem quite content to remain a part of Russia just as Crimea has been, except for a brief interval, since 1783. During our trip, we visited the three major cities of Simferopol, Sevastopol, and Yalta. Crimea has rugged but beautiful coastline. The Capital Simferopol Simferopol is an inland city with about half a million residents. There are universities as well as Crimeas parliament and industry. When we visited it, most people were enjoying the holidays. We saw multiple groups of teenagers singing patriotic songs on the street and in front of memorials. It is difficult to imagine something comparable happening in the US or Canada. The difference may be partly the result of education but it also shows the different consciousness and experience. Approximately 1 in every seven citizens died in WW2 so every family in the Soviet Union lost family members. The Nazi invasion and occupation were horrible, real and impacted every one. Theater students sing patriotic songs on the street, 6 May 2023. In Simferopol we met two women, Larisa and Irina, who described in detail what happened in early 2014. Confrontations started when a small group of ultra-nationalists tried to demolish the statue of Lenin in the capital center. Seeing this as an attack on their Soviet and Russian heritage, a much larger group gathered and stopped them. Then, three police who were residents of Crimea were killed in Maidan protests. As their corpses were brought home, there was increasing fear that the violence in Kiev could come to Crimea. Volunteers formed self-defense battalions. Hundreds of Crimeans went to Kiev on chartered buses to peacefully protest against the Maidan chaos and violence. The violence climaxed with the killing of police and protesters by snipers located in opposition controlled buildings on February 20. The Crimeans realized that peaceful protests were hopeless and departed back to Crimea on the chartered buses. At the town of Korsun, the convoy of eight buses was stopped by a gang from the Neo-Nazi Right Sector. Dozens people were beaten and seven Crimeans killed. Crimean Bus Passengers were beaten with seven killed on 20 February 2014. On February 22, the elected Ukraine government was overthrown. On its first day in power, the coup government enacted legislation to remove Russian as a state language. These events provoked shock, fear and the urgent desire to re-unify with Russia. According to Larisa and Irina, there was a huge popular demand to hold a referendum to secede from Ukraine. The Crimean parliament agreed and first proposed to have the referendum in May. The popular demand was to have it much sooner. Larisa says that on February 27 the Russian flag was flying over parliament. She does not know how, but says, It was like a miracle. People sensed then that Russia might accept Crimea. Suddenly there were Russian flags all over the city. Crimea Parliament in the capital Simferopol There was still the fear of violence. Soldiers in green uniforms without insignia, known as the polite men appeared at key locations such as the airport and parliament. It is generally understood these were Russian special forces. They were heartily welcomed by nearly all and events proceeded without violence. Larisa laughed at western journalists who used the photograph of a WW2 tank in a park, to suggest that Russian tanks were in the capital. There was no involvement by Russia in the referendum; it was organized and carried out by the traditional election council on March 16. The results were decisive: with 83% voting, 97% voted to rejoin Russia. Two days later the Crimean parliament appealed to the Russian Federation. Two days after that the agreement was signed in Moscow. Larisa and Irina say, Everyone was happy; they call it Crimea Spring. Nuclear Submarines Museum We visited many amazing places in Crimea. In the port town of Balaklava, we visited a museum which reminded us of the increasing danger of nuclear war. The first class museum is located in the site where Soviet submarines were repaired, refitted and nuclear missiles installed. The site is a tunnel at sea level under a mountain. The tunnel goes from the open Black Sea to the protected Balaklava harbor. Under the mountain, the submarines could survive any attack and respond if necessary. When we visited, many school children were also there, learning about the dangers of nuclear war, how and why Russia felt the need to develop their own nuclear capacity. The educational graphics start with the fact that the US dropped nuclear bombs on Japan, and why Russia must be prepared to defend itself. Today this site is an educational museum. We dont often think about nuclear weapons and the likelihood they could be used if war was to break out between Russia and the US. The museum shows they take this very seriously. Russias active nuclear armed submarines are located in Vladivostok and elsewhere. Nuclear submarine base under mountain in Balaklava (now a museum). The Valley of Death Driving north from Balaklava, we paused at a memorial overlooking a valley that was scene of an important battle in the Crimean war of 1854. It was immortalized in Alfred Tennysons poem The Charge of the Light Brigade where British cavalry charged embedded Russian forces and suffered many losses. The poem says Into the valley of death rode the six hundred. A famous photograph taken by one of the first war time photographers shows a barren hillside strewn with cannon balls which mowed down the British attackers. The great Russian author Leo Tolstoy was a volunteer fighter in the Crimean War, and he himself documented his experiences in battle. As one Crimean told us in making the point that Crimea has been part of Russia for a very long time, the Crimean War was a Russian war; it wasnt a Ukrainian war. Today those valleys have grazing sheep and vineyards with premier wineries comparable to those in Napa Valley, California. Visitors do wine tasting just like in California. The past war and bloodshed seem far away. Sevastopol: A Special City Further north is Sevastopol, a thriving city and the base of the Russian Black Sea naval fleet. Sevastopol is known as the most Soviet City in Russia and the most Russian City in Ukraine, and even the City Hall continues to bear the hammer and sickle emblem on its gates. When Ukraine seceded from the Soviet Union in 1991, Russia negotiated a long term lease for the naval port. The Russian military has been in this port for 240 years. Along with Russian navy ships, there are locals fishing from the docks. There is a laid back, casual air to the port although the war hit close to home when Russias naval ship Moskva was sunk early in the conflict. Tanya introduced us to former Soviet and Ukrainian Navy captain Sergey. He described how, when the decision was made to secede from Ukraine in spring 2014, many enlisted sailors and officers chose to be in the Russian rather than Ukrainian navy. Throughout our visit it was emphasized that Crimea has been Russian since 1783 and the large majority of the population have Russian as their native language and consider themselves Russian. People in Russia are very conscious of war and fascism. They call WW2 the Great Patriotic War. The Soviet Union caused by far the most losses of Axis soldiers. The US, Canada, and other allies supported the war with troops and supplies but it was the Soviet Union that bore the brunt of the war and was the primary cause of victory over Nazi Germany. Crimea was a major target of the Nazi Axis and was the scene of some of the bloodiest battles of WW2. Despite stiff resistance the peninsula was temporarily defeated. After 250 days of siege, Sevastopol was captured by the Germans in June 1942. Crimea was retaken by the Soviet Red Army in 1944. This history may explain why Crimeans are adamantly opposed to ultra nationalist hate filled rhetoric and why they decisively chose to re-unify with Russia following the overthrow of the elected Ukraine government in February 2014. In Sevastopol we visited the Partisan Museum which is a house where anti-fascist Crimeans organized resistance to the Nazi occupation. The house had a hidden basement where fliers were printed and partisans organized the sabotage campaigns. Partisan Museum in Sevastopol. A few miles south of Sevastopol is the hilltop where Nazi German command was based. It has been converted into a memorial and during our visit on Saturday prior to May 9 Victory Day, there were educational exhibitions and military displays along with miniature tanks driven by kids in a 50 foot track. Yalta In a palace at Yalta, the leaders of the US, UK and Soviet Union negotiated the spheres of influence in Europe after the defeat of the axis powers. The three countries were allies in WW2 but in just a few years the Cold War emerged. Yalta is a thriving tourist city. The palace where Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin met is open for visitors. During our visit, the hotels in Yalta were near capacity and the promenade and city streets were full of locals and visitors. Russians who used to travel to West Europe are now travelling about their own huge country and Crimea is especially popular. Reflections on Crimea Crimea is incredibly beautiful and historic. Today, despite occasional sabotage actions, the situation in Crimea is calm and inviting. Following Crimeas secession, Ukraine tried to punish Crimeans by cutting off the electricity supply to the peninsula. They were without power for five months. Next Ukraine blocked the fresh water supply. Despite these hostile actions, Crimeans display no hostility to regular Ukrainians. They say, They are our brothers and sisters. Ukrainian is a state language in Crimea and Ukrainians are respected. There are statues honoring Ukrainian writers and artists. Many Ukrainian civilians have come to Crimea to escape the war. Sergey says that Crimeans are sad about the conflict in Ukraine but will continue, slowly and patiently, to victory. Irina says, Zelensky will sooner take back the Moon than take back Crimea. Home Search ICH Question Everything! Click Here To Support Information Clearing House Joe Biden Launches His War on Antisemitism Massive politically motivated effort will impact on free speech and association By Philip Giraldi May 30, 2023: Information Clearing House -- As promised, the White House hosted a virtual event followed by the issuance of a fact sheet and detailed strategic report last Thursday that described in some detail a sweeping plan that will be implemented to confront what it describes as surging antisemitism. I reported last week how the US Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt, who participated in the ceremony, has articulated the Biden Administrations somewhat hyperbolic view that Antisemitism is not a niche issueit is an existential threat to democracy. She had also regretted that America has never done something like a national plan to fight antisemitism. It should be noted that Lipstadts brief as ambassador is to confront what she perceives to be antisemitism all around the world, though it is likely that her role will expand to include domestic authorities under whatever new arrangements emerge as the Biden plan is implemented. The plan that was unveiled was developed by an interagency task force created by Joe Biden last December, which was headed by Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, who is both Jewish and has the misfortune to be married to Kamala Harris. It reportedly incorporates contributions and insights from claimed discussions with no less than more than 1,000 community leaders including various Jewish religious denominations and also representing both Jewish and non-Jewish civic organizations in the United States. Prior to the virtual event and press release, President Biden promised that the plan would include more than 200 measures that government agencies, social media platforms and elected officials can adopt to counter rising antisemitism. The measures will reportedly include at least 100 provisions that will require congressional action. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter That the plan will be considered a success by inter alia suppressing what once passed as free speech in the United States seems to have bothered none of the Jewish groups that applauded the development. Occasionally sensible liberal leaning J Street enthused how In a period when the threats of antisemitism, far-right extremism and white nationalism are surging in the United States, its deeply encouraging to see the White House make this a top priority and adopt a nuanced, well-considered, comprehensive approach. J Streets President Jeremy Ben-Ami, who describes George Soros as a Jewish philanthropist, misses the point that Israel, which will be a principal beneficiary from stomping down on the First Amendment as nearly any criticism of the Jewish state will become a hate crime, is preeminently a country awash in far-right extremism. He slyly concludes that The struggle against antisemitism and all forms of bigotry is far too important to become a mere proxy for debates over Israel, making the entire issue vanish in typical J Street fashion. Nor does that particular irony appear to have bothered any Congressmen or anyone in the mainstream media, such is the power of the Jewish establishment over both the press and the two joined-at-the-hip on this issue political parties that alternately govern us. Note how the Plan, relying on wildly exaggerated statistics relating to what are often contrived or alleged antisemitic incidents, not by coincidence, seeks to protect Jews from a malignant force which is presumed to be the white supremacists that Biden and his cohorts have been otherwise targeting and also labeling as terrorists. That accomplishes two things politically: it gets the powerful Jewish/Israel Lobby and their controlled media fully on board to reelect Biden and it also identifies the enemy as likely to be conservative Republicans. In so doing, you take highly visible steps to protect the Jews (whether or not they actually need protection) and you create a credible enemy that everyone can identify and attack. So what does the White Houses May 25th press release entitled Fact Sheet: Biden-Harris Administration Releases First-Ever US National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism tell us about what will be put in place to protect Americas wealthiest and already most powerful ethno-religious group? A sub-heading and the lead paragraphs summarize it this way: [The] Administration announces over 100 new actions and over 100 calls to action to combat antisemitism, including new actions to counter antisemitism on college campuses and online; whole-of-society strategy includes new stakeholder commitments. Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is releasing the first-ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. This strategy includes over 100 new actions the Administration will take to raise awareness of antisemitism and its threat to American democracy, protect Jewish communities, reverse the normalization of antisemitism, and build cross-community solidarity. While antisemitic incidents most directly and intensely affect the Jewish community, antisemitism threatens all of us. Antisemitic conspiracy theories fuel other forms of hatred, discrimination, and biasincluding discrimination against other religious minorities, racism, sexism, and anti-LGBTQI+ hate. Antisemitism seeks to divide Americans from one another, erodes trust in government and nongovernmental institutions, and undermines our democracy. The Fact Sheet and the full report explain in frightening detail how Biden is dedicating significant financial and human resources to essentially pander to Jews and Israel over their concerns that they are being perceived badly, something that might be attributed to their own behavior. Admittedly, some concerns were expressed that Israel would be immune from criticism in spite of the fact that it is widely recognized as an apartheid state that commits crimes against humanity and even war crimes on a nearly daily basis. Most recently this has included a Flag Day march in East Jerusalem in which settlers chanted Death to Arabs. The Times of Israel subsequently printed an article calling for the extermination of the Palestinians. Willfully blind to that reality, the fact sheet has only this to say: In addition, the strategy reaffirms the United States unshakable commitment to the State of Israels right to exist, its legitimacy, and its securityand makes clear that when Israel is singled out because of anti-Jewish hatred, that is antisemitism. In other words, because Israel is the self-designated Jewish state criticism of it will be ipso facto regarded as a hate crime, antisemitism. I will not bore the reader by reviewing most of the 60 page long Strategy reports more intrusive features, but it is worth observing that it commits itself to have The US governmentharness our collective resources to increase education about antisemitism and its threat to democracy, the Holocaust, and Jewish contributions to American society. Collective resources of course includes taxpayer money, which will be flowing in the billions to Jewish businesses and facilities for protection, as is already happening with Department of Homeland Security discretionary grants, more than 90% of which support increased security for Jews and their organizations. The Strategys four Pillars as elaborated in both the fact sheet and the full text are: Pillar 1: Increase awareness and understanding of antisemitism, including its threat to America, and broaden appreciation of Jewish American heritage Pillar 2: Improve safety and security for Jewish communities Pillar 3: Reverse the normalization of antisemitism and counter antisemitic discrimination Pillar 4: Build cross-community solidarity and collective action to counter hate One should expect major initiatives in requiring educational courses in holocaust and other Jewish issues, compulsory training and re-education sessions both in government and the corporate world on the threat posed by antisemitism, and creating law enforcement mechanisms backed by new legislation that will provide empowerment to investigate and criminalize various antisemitic acts as hate crimes. One Strategic Goal that might be of particular interest to readers of this article might be Tackling Antisemitism Online, which includes Ensure terms of service and community standards explicitly cover antisemitism. The Administration commends platforms with terms of service and community standards that establish zero-tolerance for hate speech, including antisemitism. All online platforms are encouraged to adopt zero-tolerance terms of service and community standards and to permanently ban repeat offenders, both personal accounts and extremist websites. It calls for algorithms to be employed on social media sites to block any and all antisemitic content. Somewhat bizarrely, it also calls for Establish[ing] relationships with Jewish community organizations to share best practices related to reporting hate speech and utilizing platforms to lift up Jewish stories. So, in effect, the US governments national security agencies would be answering to and propagandizing for Jewish community organizations, which one might think to be inappropriate. But the fact sheet and report itself do not mention what legislation will be in the works to penalize those who choose to be non-cooperative, though the model would likely be the laws that have been passed in 26 states and counting to punish or deny benefits to those who either support Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) or are in favor of any nonviolent action directed against Israel. Note particularly that college campuses are explicitly mentioned as targets by the White House fact sheet since BDS, seen as a major threat by the Israeli government and by groups like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), is increasingly popular among students at a number of universities. And speaking of BDS, where even Biden has perhaps hesitated to go too deep too directly, there is always a boneheaded congressmen who is ready to take up the pander to Israel mission. Senator Marco Rubio, who has never been bothered by having to think anything through, has introduced a bill that would prevent US companies and individuals from participating in boycotts of countries friendly to the US. Israel is not named in the legislation, but the Congressmen involved have freely admitted that it is directed particularly against BDS. Rubio claims that The BDS movement is the single most destructive campaign of economic warfare against the Jewish state of Israel. This bill, which previously passed the Senate, would mark an important step toward bringing an end to the movements discriminatory efforts. The bills cosponsor Republican Senator Bill Hagerty added that it would Provide state and local governments [with] the tools they need to counter the discriminatory and hate-inspired conduct of the anti-Semitic BDS movement aimed against Israel our closest ally in the Middle East. Make no mistake, the Strategy and all that will develop from it is misguided, overkill, and the death of freedom to speak, write and associate. It is a consequence of the immense Jewish power over the United States government and is in no way justified by developments. One notes how conservative critics of the Biden Administration Elon Musk and Tucker Carlson have recently been called antisemites without any real evidence demonstrating that to be the case. Joe Bidens plan of action will surely similarly open the door to what will quickly become an open season on alleged antisemites. It will subsequently be easy for politicians and the media to label critics of domestic issues like the state of the Mexican border or international issues like the pointless and highly dangerous war against Russia as haters and by a tortuous extension antisemites. Appropriate punishment will follow. Philip M. Giraldi, Ph.D., is Executive Director of the Council for the National Interest, a 501(c)3 tax deductible educational foundation (Federal ID Number #52-1739023) that seeks a more interests-based U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. Website is councilforthenationalinterest.org, address is P.O. Box 2157, Purcellville VA 20134 and its email is inform@cnionline.org. Views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. Registration is not necessary to post comments. We ask only that you do not use obscene or offensive language. Please be respectful of others. See also Biden: I am a Zionist. You dont have to be a Jew to be a Zionist, Search Information Clearing House The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. Click Here To Support Information Clearing House Your support has kept ICH free on the Web since 2002. Click for Spanish , German , Dutch , Danish , French , translation- Note- Translation may take a moment to load. Believing Impossible Things By Alastair Crooke May 30, 2023: Information Clearing House -- " SCF " -- The endless bitter antagonism to Putin and to Russia has allowed a self-imagined reality to detach, ultimately becoming a delusion. The recent G7 summit should be understood as firstly, the shaping of a battlespace in the War of Narratives whose principal front today is the Team Biden insistence that only one reality the US-led Rules ideology (and it alone) can predominate. And, secondly to underline pointedly that the West is not losing in this war against the other reality. This other reality is the multivalent otherness that self-evidently is attracting more and more support around the world. Many in the West are simply unaware of how fast the geopolitical tectonic plates are shifting: The original plate bifurcation (the failed financial war declared on Russia), already has led to a building wave. Anger is growing. People now no longer feel alone in rejecting western hegemony they no longer care. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter In just the week that preceded the G7 summit, the Arab League literally went multi-polar; It quit its former pro-US automaticity. The embrace of President Assad and the Syrian government was both the logical consequence to the secondary tectonic-plate shift set in motion by China with its Saudi-Iranian diplomacy a revolution which Mohammad bin Salman (MbS) then logically extended to the entire Arab sphere. MbS sealed this break-free of US control through having President al-Assad invited to the Summit to symbolise the Leagues act of generalised iconoclasm. For the West, it is ontologically impossible to tolerate their reality being disassembled: to see their society and the world split in two. The narrative reality is so embedded via the well-honed effectiveness of MSM messaging however, that politicians have become lazy. They do not have to argue their case, and have no incentive to hold back on untruths either. The dynamics are exorable: an over-hyped monolithic reality evolves into a Manichaean fight to the death. Any backsliding by principals could result in the collapse of the Media narrative house of cards. (This notion of a monolithic reality is not one shared by most other societies who see reality as multi-faceted). Denial becomes endemic. So, we witness a hawkish G7, diverting from the narrative setback (of Bakhmut falling) by the casual embrace of a ploy to supply F-16s to Ukraine; chastising China for not making President Putin back off in Ukraine; and using the meeting to set a narrative framework for the coming confrontation with China on trade issues and Taiwan. One commentator (at the summit) wondered Am I still in Europe, or in Japan?, as she listened to rhetoric as though lifted from Von Der Leyens earlier speech to the EU. Von de Leyen had crafted the formulation of de-risking with China to disguise the creeping EU-China bifurcation in production on the EU Commission factory floor. This remark does however serve to underline how Von der Leyen has become a de facto member of the Biden Team. China angrily responded to the G7 summit allegation that it had become a workshop for smearing and slandering China. This extensive narrative-shaping for China confrontation is seen to be necessary by the G7 as the rest of the world does not view China as a genuine threat to the US: Rather, they understand that the true threats to the US derive from its internal divisions, and not from external sources. The G7 salience lies not so much with the anti-China narratives launched, but, plainly said, because the entire episode expresses a western hubristic denial, which portends extreme danger in respect to Ukraine. It speaks to the reality that the West in its present mental mode will be unable to put forward any credible political initiative to end the Ukraine conflict.(Recall that Moscow was badly mauled by the earlier Minsk episode). The G7 language abjures all serious diplomacy, and signals that the imperative remains to stick with the not losing mantra:The fall of Bakhmut is no defeat for Kiev, but a Pyrrhic loss for Putin; Ukraine is winning, Putin is losing, was the G7 messaging. The hubris resides in the western perennial condescension towards President Putin and Russia. Washington (and London) just cannot disabuse themselves of the conviction that Russia is fragile; its armed forces barely, if at all, competent; its economy cratering; and that therefore Putin likely would seize on just about any olive branch America cares to offer him. That President Xi could or would pressure Putin to back-off in Ukraine, and accept a ceasefire on EU terms which are the Zelensky terms is delusional. Yet some key EU leaders genuinely seem to think Putin can be arm-twisted by Xi or Modi into exiting Ukraine on terms wholly favourable to Kiev. These European leaders simply are dangerously hostage to the psychological processes fuelling their denialism. Russia is winning on the financial war front, and on the global diplomatic front. It has the overwhelming advantage in force numbers; it has the advantage in weaponry; it has the advantage in the skies and in the Electro-magnetic sphere. Whereas Ukraine is in disarray, its forces decimated and the Kiev entity is crumbling fast. Dont they get it? No. The endless bitter antagonism to Putin and to Russia has allowed a self-imagined reality to detach; to drift further and further from any connection to reality; and then to transit into delusion always drawing on like-minded peer cheerleaders for validation and extended radicalisation. This is a serious psychosis. Because instead of addressing the conflict rationally, the West consistently comes up with non-starters such as a frozen conflict . Do they seriously think that Russia will sit back whilst the West stands up an armed to the teeth NATO proxy in the West of Ukraine? A proxy that will stand as a festering sore in the Russian side, and bleed Russian resources, over the long term? Do they imagine the lesson of Afghanistan is lost on the Russian High Command? I can tell you,it is not. I was a part actor in that tragedy . What next? Russia likely will wait to see whether Kiev is able to mount an offensive or not. If Kiev does launch an offensive, it would make sense for Russia to let the Ukrainian forces throw themselves upon the Russian defensive lines, and expend their forces further, in a new meat grinder. Moscow will test whether Kievs patrons are then ready to acknowledge facts on the ground, rather than some imagined reality, by acquiescing to Moscows terms. If not, the Russian attrition might continue, and continue, right up to the Polish border. There is no other option even if it be Moscows last choice. The F-16s diversion will not change the strategic balance to the war; but of course, it will extend the war. Yet the European leaders at the G7 grabbed at the proposal. Lt Col. Daniel Davis, Senior Fellow at Defence Priorities in Washington, has warned : There is no reason to expect a dramatic change in Kyivs fortunes in the war because of them [the F-16s]. Even the 40 to 50 jets Ukraine is reported to be requesting, will not fundamentally alter the course of the war. The bigger question Americans should be asking of Biden, however, is this: to what end? What does the Administration expect the delivery of the F-16s to accomplish? What do we hope to physically accomplish? What end-state does the president envision for the war, and how would the presence of F-16s improve the chances of success? So far as I can determine, these questions havent even been asked, much less answered, by administration or Pentagon officials Washington should start to focus far more on concrete means of safeguarding American interests and ending the war, and less on inconsequential weapon deliveries which dont seem to be part of any coherent strategy. The same question should be posed to the EU: To what end? Has the question even been asked, much less answered? Well, lets answer it: What will 50 F-16s accomplish? European leaders say they seek an early end to the conflict, yet this initiative will achieve the very opposite. It will represent yet another milestone in escalation towards the forever war against Russia for which some earnestly wish. Russia then likely will see little alternative but to proceed to full war versus NATO. The Europeans seem incapable of saying no to America. Yet Col. Davis warns clearly that the US intention is to shift the burden for physical support for Ukraine to our European partners. Implicitly, this suggests long war in Europe. How did we reach this point, for heavens sake? (By not thinking things through from the start, with financial war on Russia so enthusiastically and unreflectively embraced by Europe). Recently, the Financial Times wrote that Ukraine has five months to demonstrate some advances to the US and other Western backers, to convince them of its plans for the conflict with Russia: If we get to September and Ukraine has not made significant gains, then the international pressure on [the West] to bring them to negotiations will be enormous. Well, Col Davis says there is little likelihood the [the F-16] fighters will see combat over the skies of Ukraine this year. So, Biden just casually extended the war well beyond September. Question Everything! Click Here To Support Information Clearing House Revisiting the G-7, Ukraine-Russia War, Hiroshima, and the Cruelty of Wars By Mahboob A. Khawaja May 30, 2023: Information Clearing House -- How do you cure political cynicism with intellectual foresights? The G-7 used to be a G-8 including Russia but since 2014, it was changed to an exclusive club of the like-minded USA-European think-tanks for their own politics and future-making. They share political interests and values of their own but not the sanctity of human life grounded in the tenets of One Humanity based on equality of human beings, justice, and respect for others and always be open to listening and learning to manage the phenomenon of change and sustainable future. If Russia was still a 8th member of the club, a reasoned dialogue could have emerged to end the war between Russia Ukraine and follow it through with restoration of normalization between the adjacent cultures of thinking and actions. Despite the like-minded leaders deliberation, there were no much needed initiatives of leaders moral consciousness for peace and conflict resolution. They invited India, South Africa, South Korean, Brazil and others who are in conflict with the US and Europeans stance on the war; yet for economic and face-saving overtures, their presence is recorded and they do not offer any unanimity to global communitys pursuits for peace and end of the conflict. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter Human disconnect to truth has caused many catastrophic disasters and contradictions to mislead the global humanity. The military approach was high on the agenda. Does it mean that the G-7 leadership lacks imagination for a peaceful resolution of the emerging conflicts? A reflective snap shot of a critical moment in time pulse and movement of history reveals absence of reasoned dialogue for the prevention of the on going conflict causing massive human casualties, displacement of millions of Ukrainian civilian refugees across Europe, destruction of essential civic infrastructures and furious competitive edge for success in an ugly war between Russia, the West and Ukraine. To glance ahead of the emerging horrifying events coming out of the Russian-Ukraine war fronts, We, The People of global humanity must call for immediate halt to all war machines and lingering suspicion of one-sided peace and triumph. Sometimes Western thinking cultures unimaginably look for remote movements of time and destiny for a navigational change. Often ferocious scenarios of good, evil and wrong are used by the policy makers to explain the contrasts of the present. Paul Craig Roberts (The United States has been destroyed by its Ruling Elite. 5/18/2023: Global research), claims that the US is moving toward a fatal split in the society from which recovery is impossible. One wonders, why the G-7 wanted to meet at Hiroshima. Political tyranny and oppression could not avert the bombing of Hiroshima. Agreeably, civilizations and sustainable future do not evolve out of the moral and intellectual mire of military conquests, cruelty and imperialism. Were they thinking to change the history and its encompassing realism? But the object of historic memory was not replaced with hope for the present or the future. They did nothing new to discard the old follies and restore a new sense of imagination for peace and harmony between the warring parties. The threat of lethal nuclear weapons is looming at the decision-making tables. The leaders could deny it as a working option, be it the Western or Russian. Dropping of the Two Atomic Bombs Was a Rush to Political Judgment They have learned to destroy the Earth but not to protect its natural sanctity. Do the G-7 leaders know how the living Earth and the living Universe were created and function? And what Laws of the Nature govern the global planetary systems? What relationship does Man and Humanity enjoin to the working of Earth and the larger Universe? Be aware oh-fellow human beings, we reside on a living Earth, not a dead entity -how the planet Earth exists and moves at its axis and rotates at 1675 km per hour or 465 meters per second that is 1,040 miles per hour faster than the scientific imagination: Behold! in the creation of the Heavens and of the earth, and the alternation of the Night and Day, There are indeed Signs for men of understanding; Men who celebrate the praises of God, standing, and sitting and lying down on their sides, and contemplate the (wonders of ) creation in the heavens and the earth with the thought): Our Lord! Not for naught Hast Thou created all this, Glory to Thee! Give us salvation from the Penalty of the Fire. (The Quran: Chapter 3: 190-191) And He created everything, and measured it in due proportion. (The Quran: Chapter 25: 2). There is a moral sense of spirituality and humanity to co-exist in harmony with the rest of all creations on this Earth. Modern wars represent sadistic and cruel minds to undermine human rights, dignity and life. They destroy all that is built over the ages that we call human cultures and civilizations. Using nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles and other WMD destroys Earth and its capacity to sustain life, flow water, grow foods and produce oxygen, support sustainable future of all living things. Think again: Does the Earth not provide all that was needed by human intellect, scientific and technological progress and changing times? Human beings were equipped by Nature with intelligence, not ignorance or arrogance. After 78 years of the first atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima and then Nagasaki, there is no will and defined system to question the aggressors for destroying the lives of millions. All wars have ripple effects as Japanese continued to face the unraveling impacts of the first nuclear bomb. The victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki know it firsthand what is like to be living in a man-made hell. The Japans PM spoke of nuclear disarmament that is nowhere visible in the 21st century. What the US did 78 years earlier, could conveniently be repeated by any parties to the conflict. Pat Elder (Hiroshima and Nagasaki: North American High School Textbooks Perpetuate The Big Lie 8/02/2013, Information Clearing House), describes it in the following narrative: Quite simply, President Truman dropped those bombs on a defeated Japan to tell the Russians and the world to back off. We had two bombs and we were going to use them. In a typically cavalier fashion, Admiral William F. Halsey, Jr., Commander, U.S. Third Fleet remarked, It was a mistake to ever drop [the bomb]. . .they had this toy and they wanted to try it out, so they dropped it. Admiral William D. Leahy, the Presidents Chief of Staff said, The use of this barbarous weapon at Hiroshima and Nagasaki was of no material assistance in our war against Japan. The Japanese were already defeated and ready to surrender. History Is Living and How Do We, the People, Reflect on the Grieving Sense of Humanity Professor Rodrigue Tremblay (The Moral Legacy of Hiroshima and Nagasaki Global Research: 8/06/2013), clarifies: As U.S. Christians, we are deeply penitent ..the surprise bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki are morally indefensible.(The American Federal Council of Churches Report on Atomic Warfare and the Christian Faith, 1946). It is my opinion that the use of this barbarous weapon at Hiroshima and Nagasaki was of no material assistance in our war against Japan. The lethal possibilities of atomic warfare in the future are frightening. (William Leahy, Chief of Staff to Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Harry S. Truman (I Was There, p. 441). If the G-7 leaders wanted a new beginning refuting the past imperialism and subjugation of the poor and vulnerable nations, they should have focused on specific workable strategies to call for an immediate ceasefire and dialogue between President Putin and President Zellensky. China is pursuing a plan for peacemaking and so are the few African countries taking initiatives to break the deafening silence between Russia and Ukraine for peacemaking. How come the G-7 has no strategic plan to end the conflict? What if the G-7 could replace the historic colonial cynicism with optimism and see the 21st century New World of opportunities and realism and seek peace between Israel and Palestine, between India and Pakistan on Kashmir; and a global approach to climate change and harmonize socio-economic and humanitarian affairs for a sustainable future on this Earth. The unchallenging TRUTH arising from the emerging conflicts and leadership failure call for new THINKING and New People of ideas and ideals to reject the violent assumptions of militarization and egoistic triumphs by acts of genocidal plans. We the People of globe ask the conscientious leaders to avoid the upcoming epicenter of cataclysm and listen to voices of reason for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, stop acceleration of military confrontations between Russia, NATO, USA, the EU and others. At the edge of REASON, war is anti-human. We, the People, wish to rejoice truth, not evil. We, the people of the globe possess understanding how to change the egoistic and embittered insanity of the few hate-mongers and warlords into equilibrium of balanced relationship between Man, Life and God- given living Universe in which we reside all. If the G-7 leaders were proactive and men of REASON, they should have focused on a reasoned dialogue between Russia-Ukraine to end the war, not to extend the Crimes of War by all, against all. Dr. Mahboob A. Khawaja specializes in international relations-global security, peace and conflict resolution with keen interests in Islamic-Western comparative cultures and civilizations, and author of several publications including the latest book: Global Peace, Security and Conflict Resolution: Approaches to Understand the Current Issues and Future-Making, Lambert Academic Publications, Germany, 2017. Views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. Registration is not necessary to post comments. We ask only that you do not use obscene or offensive language. Please be respectful of others. See also Question Everything! Click Here To Support Information Clearing House Americas massive effort to distort and suppress truth By Paul Edwards May 30, 2023: Information Clearing House -- Humans love legends. Theyre in thrall to them. Its universal. Human societies, in all their diversity and distinctions, are ruled, in their deepest fundamental beliefs and convictions, by myths, a term formal and less current than the common word legends, but with the same meaning. The dictionary defines both as any invented story, idea, or concept, any imaginary or fictitious thing or person, and any collective belief that is accepted uncritically, that is, without a factual basis. This follows naturally, inevitably, from the custom that children everywhere are raised on stories, tales, and fantasies with no grounding in actuality. It is the function of such tales, not to reproduce realities of the world but rather, by stimulating their imaginations, to excite, amuse, and beguile children, and make their moral impact through drama and example. Our minds, so conditioned in youth, respond eagerly to legends in our maturity. It would be difficult to say, at this stage, whether the myth of Christianity or of Capitalism has the strongest hold on humanity. What is undeniable is that both are myths that have long exerted tremendous influence over the minds of much of mankind. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter Christian dogma has been far more historically and damagingly attacked as absurdity and nonsense than Capitalisms catechism and yet, exposed and exploded as infantile myth repeatedly, over hundreds of years, it continues to hold hundreds of millions of peoples passionate loyalty; nominally, if not in actual practice. Capitalism, being of far more recent advent, and still in its period of maximum ascendancy, has not taken the thorough shellacking Christianity has absorbed. This, despite the fact that its mythical nature is at least as blatantly, obviously absurd as that based on an imaginary God and putative Savior. It took nearly a thousand years for the egregious foolishness of Christian dogma to begin to be battered by honest intelligence, which explains the eluding by Capitalism of withering criticism that broke Christianity down. There is a perfect example being exhibited right now of the way Capitalisms huckster fairy tale has escaped responsible analysis in America. It is the ludicrous clown show known as funding the government. We are advised that unless the limit or ceiling of the Federal debt is raised, all manner of disastrous things will happen and, no doubt, they will, but they are all a function of the profound idiocy of our method of financing the government. Capitalism, which has always represented only the topmost tier of the financially affluent and their banksthose premier criminal organs of chicanery and fraudconvinced politicians and courtslike a father lecturing his childrenthat government, while in theory it exists to benefit The People, in fact owes allegiance only to the money elite that set it up and owns it. Thus, governments under Capitalism have the double burden of being required to borrow the funds that enable them to defend entrenched wealth. This is the most spectacular fraud in the history of crime, for it makes government directly subordinate to Capitalism. This devastating megascam was instituted long before anyone but extremely wealthy elites had any idea of what government was, or what it did so that The People believed this was the only way it had ever been or ever could be. That is, of course, utter bullshit. The evil of this system can be better understood by comparing government to a private entity. Say you want to start a business and you need money. You take a loan from a bank. You owe a debt then and interest on the loan to be paid from your profits. Governments job is not to make money but, in theory, to care for its people, emphasis on in theory. Furthermore, a government is, by definition, the supreme power of the state. As a sovereign entityviz., having supreme rank, power and authorityit has all the rights of a ruling organ, including inherently that of issuing money for its own maintenance. Under Capitalism, that right has been usurped from government which, though sovereign, must act as a supplicant, required to borrow money from a private entity within its complex apparatus in order to operate. In other words, government is forced to act as an enslaved cash cow for the Capitalist Tyranny that owns and controls it. We are now being treated to a nauseating Punch and Judy show of our sleazy, money-whoring parties bashing each other over the specifics of a slimy deal to allow this grifting lunacy, rather than denouncing and dismantling the rotten, dishonest system itself. In the old movie, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance", there is a line, nearly always misquoted, that sums up Capitalisms shoddy defense of its parasitic, cancerous capture of government. It is spoken by a journalist investigating the truth of the killing. More captivated by the idea of appealing to an ignorant audience than telling the truth, when asked if he is going to tell the real story, he answers, No, Sir. This is the West. When the legend becomes fact, print the legend. In regard to funding the governmentlike so much in American polity, with the craven imbecility of our dirty press, and our vilely corrupt political partiesprinting the legend of Capitalism is what is always done, to our great cost as a nation. Americas massive effort to distort and suppress truth is killing even our capacity to distinguish it. The great Johnathan Swift said, Falsehood flies; and the Truth comes limping after. Truth no longer even limps; it is gagged and shackled. Paul Edwards is a writer and film-maker in Montana. He can be reached at: hgmnude@bresnan.net Views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. Registration is not necessary to post comments. We ask only that you do not use obscene or offensive language. Please be respectful of others. See also The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 28-year-old man, identified as Olumide Oyewole, who allegedly raped and robbed a woman in her apartment in the Ilasan area of Lekki. Oyewole allegedly broke into the house of the victim simply identified as Cynthia around 8pm on Monday, May 29, 2023, tied her legs before raping her at knifepoint. After raping the victim, the suspect stole an iPhone 12 Promax, one Samsung S9, one small Nokia phone; two bottles of perfume, two wristwatches, one necklace, an iPhone charger and $10, 000. The victim was said to have reported at the nearest police station and the suspect was arrested. READ ALSO: Man Rapes 7-Year-Old Girl In Bauchi School Toilet Spokesperson of the command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday, May 30, said detectives were sent to the crime scene and the suspects house where some of the exhibits were recovered. The police made an arrest this morning around 9.50 am at the Ilasan, area of Lekki, Lagos State. One Cynthia (surname withheld) visited the Ilasan Police Division and reported that she was raped and robbed by one Olumide Oyewole, the PPRO stated. She (the victim) in the company of some policemen went and arrested the suspect. She reported that on Monday around 8 pm, she was in her room when she heard a knock on her door, she said when she went to open the door, the suspect, Oyewole forced himself into her room with his face masked and a knife in his possession. Oyewole allegedly tied her two hands with a rope and had canal knowledge of her. He afterwards ransacked her room and went away with an iPhone 12 Promax, one Samsung S9, one small Nokia phone; two bottles of perfume, two wristwatches, one necklace, an iPhone charger and $10 000. Hundeyin added that an investigation was ongoing and that the case would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned President Bola Tinubu against removing fuel subsidy without adequate measures to cushion the effect on workers and Nigerians. NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero in a statement on Tuesday, slammed the President for announcing the end of fuel subsidy without consulting relevant stakeholders. Ajaero noted with regret that a few hours after Tinubus pronouncement, some marketers shut down their filling states and immediately there was a price hike in some places. Describing the action as insensitive, the NLC President said it has brought tears and sorrow to millions of Nigerians instead of the renewed hope the administration has promised. Ajaero, however, said any attempt to remove fuel subsidy will be rejected by Nigerians, and asked the President to immediately withdraw the policy. The statement read: We at the Nigeria Labour Congress are outraged by the pronouncement of President Bola Tinubu removing fuel subsidy without due consultations with critical stakeholders or without putting in place palliative measures to cushion the harsh effects of the subsidy removal. Within hours of his pronouncement, the nation went into a tailspin due to a combination of service shutdowns and product price hikes, in some places representing over 300 percent price adjustment. By his insensitive decision, President Tinubu on his inauguration day brought tears and sorrow to millions of Nigerians instead of hope. He equally devalued the quality of their lives by over 300 percent and counting. READ MORE: Hoard Fuel, Lose Certificate Of Occupancy Kwara Gov Warns Marketers It is no heroism to commit against the people this level of cruelty at any time, let alone on an inauguration day. If he is expecting a medal for taking this decision, he would certainly be disappointed to receive curses for the people of Nigeria consider this decision not only a slight but a big betrayal. On our part, we are staunchly opposed to this decision and are demanding an immediate withdrawal of this policy. Ajaero said, The implications of this decision are grave for our security and well-being. We wonder if President Tinubu gave thought to why his predecessors in office refused to implement this highly injurious policy decision. We also wonder if he also forgot the words he penned down on January 8, 2012, but issued on January 11, 2012. We have chosen to reproduce substantial parts of the statement for the benefit of those who did not have the opportunity of reading it then. As Nigerians gathered with family and friends to celebrate the New Year, the federal government was baking a national cake wrapped in the scheme that would instantly make the New Year a bitter one. Barely had the public weaned itself from last year when the government dropped a historic surprise on an unsuspecting nation. PPPRA issued a statement abolishing the fuel subsidy. By this sly piece of paper, the federal government breached the social contract with the people. This government has turned its back on the collective will. By bureaucratic fiat, the government made the most fateful economic decision any administration has made since the inception of the Fourth Republic and its back on the collective will. By bureaucratic fiat, the government made the most fateful economic decision any administration has made since the inception of the Fourth Republic and it has done so with an arrogant wave of the hand as if issuing a minor regulation. Because of the terrible substance of the decision and the haughty style of its enactment, the people feel betrayed and angry. At this moment, we know not to where this anger will lead. In good conscience, we pray against violence. Also in good conscience, it is the duty of every citizen to peacefully demonstrate and record their opposition to this draconian measure that is swiftly crippling the economy more than it will ever cure it. By taking this step, the government has tossed the people into the depths of the midnight sea. Government demands the people swim to safety under their own power, claiming the attendant hardship will build character and add efficiency to the national economy. It is easy to make these claims when one is dry and onshore. Government would have us believe that every hardship it manufactures for the people to endure is a good thing. This is a lie. The hardships they thrust upon the poor often bear no other purpose than to keep them poor. This is such a time. Though someday, Nigeria will have to remove the subsidy, the time to do it is not now. This subsidy removal is ill-timed and violates the condition precedent necessary before such a decision is made. First, the government needs to clean up and throw away the salad of corruption in the NNPC. Then, proceed to lay the foundation for a mass transit system in the railways and road network with long-term bonds and fully develop the energy sector towards revitalizing Nigerias economy and easing the burden any subsidy removal may have on the people. But we know this is about more than the fuel subsidy. It is about the governments ideas on the role of money in bettering the lives of people, about the relationship between the government and the people and about the primary objective of the governments interaction with the economy. It is about whom, among Nigerias various social classes, does government most values. This is why the public reaction has been heated. It is not so much that people have to spend more money. It is because people feel short-changed and sold out. Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo has stated that the All Progressives Grand Alliance will work with the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress. He noted that the party has always been with any ruling party at the centre since its creation in 2002 and the present government of Tinubu would not be an exception. Governor Soludo stated this during the official commission of APGA Regional Headquarters in Awka, on Tuesday, amidst residents partial compliance with IPOB sit-at-home order to commemorate the Biafra day. The governor also reacted to the rumours making the rounds that he was stopped by security operatives from entering the state box during the inauguration of the President in Abuja, on Monday. He, therefore, berated those who peddled the rumours of him being sent out, clarifying that he was approaching the VIP box, but was rather stopped and redirected to the VVIP box. He said, I tell our people that elections have come and gone and APGA did not go to the tribunal even though we had a Presidential candidate because APGA has always worked with the government or party at the centre and it has always collaborated with the party at the centre. When it was the Peoples Democratic Party, APGA collaborated with the party and government at the centre and we as it were, did not field any candidate because APGA worked with the party at the centre. READ MORE: Release Nnamdi Kanu To Me Before May 29 Soludo Begs Buhari Former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has faulted former President Muhammadu Buhari administration, which he said was laden with destruction and damage to many of the Nigerian values. Chidoka, who served in the administration of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan described Buharis government of eight years as a disaster of unimaginable proportions. Recall that Buhari handed over power to President Bola Tinubu on Monday, May 29, 2023, having served two terms in office. READ MORE: El-Rufai Blames Buhari For Mishandling Terrorism, Banditry In Nigeria In a post on his Twitter page shortly after inauguration , Chidoka said Nigeria lost many values under Buhari. Chidoka wrote, President Buhari destroyed every fibre of our national consensus, destroyed our pride of place in the comity of nations, damaged our collective desire to live in peace within our diversity, and reversed the economic progress of the democratic era. President Buhari was simply a disaster of unimaginable proportions. Meanwhile, Many notable Nigerians such as ex Governors and former ministers have criticized the former President over alleged mishandling of terrorism and economy of the country. Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir el-Rufai, blamed the immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari for its inability to curb terrorism, noting that the ex-leader allegedly spurned the piece of advice he gave him to contain the crisis. Justice Oyebola Ojo, Osun State Chief Judge, has sentenced Rahman Adedoyin, owner of Hilton Hotel, Ile-Ife to death by hanging. Information Nigeria reports that, Justice Ojo declared Adedoyin was found culpable where Timothy Adegoke, 37, an Obafemi Awolowo University postgraduate student was allegedly killed According to Ojos judgement, the owner of the hotel and two of his workers, based on the circumstances of the case established by the prosecuting counsel, Femi Falana, are found culpable of conspiracy to commit murder, and unlawful killing of the deceased. READ ALSO: Timothy Adegoke: Court Remands Rahman Adedoyin, Other Suspects In Custody Recall Adegoke, a Business Administration student, travelled from Abuja to Ile-Ife to write his examination. He lodged in the hotel, where he hoped to stay out the period of the examinations but was declared missing by the police on 7 November 2021. Ayodele Fayose, former governor of Ekiti State, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for announcing the removal of fuel subsidy. Recall that Tinubu, in his inaugural address on Monday, said the subsidy is no longer sustainable in Nigeria, stressing that it was gone. However the declaration has brought queues at petrol stations and hike in fuel prices across the country. In reaction to its removal, via Twitter on Wednesday, the Peoples Democratic Party chieftain, said it was a best and wise decision from the President. On this removal of fuel subsidy, I am convinced that President Tinubu has taken the best and the wisest decision for the collective good of Nigeria and its people. He promised to remove the subsidy, he never hid it. Most importantly, too, the immediate past govt already removed fuel subsidy technically by not making provision for it in the 2023 budget. I appeal to Nigerians to bear with the government for now as the present hardship will ease out with time. Removing the fuel subsidy is the best thing to do and it has to be done once and for all. READ ALSO: Ohanaeze, Arewa Youths Hail Tinubu Over Fuel Subsidy Removal Plan Unfortunately, the subsidy regime has only been benefiting a few people in the oil industry and Nigeria must break this chain once and for all. No doubt, President Tinubu is not a magician who can manufacture money. He can only strategically reposition the country, using his experience and intellect, which he has started. Many govts have come and paid lip service to all these issues, it is time to sustain our country by taking decisions that may be seen as harsh, but can return the country back to the path of progress. The NLC and all interested parties, especially ordinary Nigerians should realize that the last administration did more damage and the new government can only be finding ways and means to stabilize the country. Sadly, like typical Nigerians who are always desirous of taking advantage of every situation, the fuel marketers are only interested in making money for themselves and methinks the govt should come very hard on them this time. Anyone among them found to be hoarding fuel or selling at an exorbitant rate should be dealt with. Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ogun State Command, have seized 222.42kg of cannabis popularly known as marijuana at various drug joints in the state.NDLEA Seizes 222.42Kg Cannabis, Codeine In Ogun. The operatives also seized 40 bottles of codeine weighing a total of 0.4 litres after invading the drug joints in Abeokuta, the state capital. The commands Commander of Narcotics, Ibiba Odili, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday. Odili said the operatives stormed various drug joints such as Mayas in Lafenwa, Odo-Eran in Obantoko and Randa, all in Abeokuta and uncovered the drugs. She added that the operatives recovered a locally-made gun from one of the joints. READ ALSO: NDLEA Intercepts UK-Bound Meth Worth N567m, Arrests Suspect In Lagos Airport (Video) The statement read, The gallant joint operatives seized a jaw-dropping 222.42Kg of cannabis sativa, also known as marijuana, in one fell swoop. This will deal a significant blow to drug traffickers, interrupt their supply chains and destabilise their illicit operations. In addition to the cannabis seizure, the joint forces discovered 40 bottles of codeine, weighing a total of 0.4 litres, highlighting the misuse of pharmaceutical drugs. The operatives also seized a locally-made gun during the operation. Odili said the NDLEA in collaboration with men of the 35 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army and the state command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps launched the fourth phase of its mopping-up and counter-narcotic intelligence operations against illicit supply and abuse of drugs in Abeokuta. She said efforts would be made to dismantle the drug trafficking network and disrupt the supply of chains of illicit substances to create a safe and drug-free environment. The February 25 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, made an appearance at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal on Tuesday. Newsmen spotted the duo closely observing the court proceedings as they engaged in a conversation. Recall the tribunal had previously scheduled May 30 as the day for Peter Obi to present his case against the results of the presidential election which made Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress emerge winner. Information Nigeria reports that the Labour Party is however expected to call just one witness today. READ ALSO: Inauguration: Ill Treat Obi, Atiku With Respect- Tinubu Initially, Obi had anticipated a seven-week duration to present his case, calling upon 50 witnesses, but, the court ruled in favour of a condensed three-week timeline. Additionally, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), along with Tinubu and the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, were given five days each to address the petition. Asides Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who secured second place in the election, and Obi of the Labour Party (LP), who came in third, the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) also filed a petition challenging the election outcome. Pan Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, as well as the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF), have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the announcement of fuel subsidy removal. Ohanaeze, in reaction to the announcement made by the President during his inaugural speech on Monday, said Nigerians should applaud Tinubu for the political will to remove the fuel subsidy. Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, in a chat with Daily Post on Tuesday, submitted that its removal would tackle corruption, and ensure stability in the system. According to Isiguzoro, the President is saddled with a herculean task to lift Nigeria up and the Igbos are ready to assist in actualizing his dreams. His words: Nigerians should applaud Tinubu for the political will to remove the fuel subsidy with which the political elites have held the country, hostage. The removal of fuel subsidy would go a long way in tackling corruption and ensuring stability in the system. The economic and agricultural proposals are a good one for the president. One thing we are sure of is that Tinubus administration will be much better than the previous one, which centered on nepotism, and advocated religion above other interests for the masses. I think Tinubu started on the right foot despite inheriting a dilapidated economy and foreign debts by the last administration. Tinubu has a herculean task to lift Nigeria from the bottom to the top. READ ALSO: Subsidy Removal A Bold Move, Atiku Wouldve Done Same Reno Omokri Buhari was the worst president Nigeria ever had since 1999, though he performed credibly well in the area of infrastructure in the South East. As regards to Ndigbo, we expect that the economic prospects under Tinubu will largely favour Igbos. The free market trades and economic postulations show that Ndigbo, who are mainly traders will benefit from his economic policies. He must kick start with policy implementation like removal of multiple taxation and tariff removal. Ndigbo are ready to assist him in actualizing his dreams, Tinubus regime will be far better than the previous government. The AYCF on its part through its national president, Yerima Shettima noted Tinubu took the right step, adding that the President believes that rather than sharing the funds for subsidy, the money should be used for infrastructural projects. Shettima said Tinubu is determined to work and Nigerians expect that he will do the needful in the area of economy, security, and other sectors. He said: The economy is nothing to write home about and there are other challenges. He also understands that there is a need to save the country now at this critical period. Whats the need to earmark money for subsidy when some people will divert it? Theyre subsidising nothing in the country. He believes that rather than sharing the money, the money should be used for something better. I concur with him. The fears of Nigerians is that fuel will go higher and with the coming of Dangote refinery, you will see that everything will go down, and Nigerians will be at the advantage of these policies; I quite agree with him that we must drop the subsidy regime. President Bola Tinubu has directed the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately vacate the office of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in the Ikoyi area of Lagos. Recalled that INFORMATION NIGERIA earlier reported that officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) barred personnel of the EFCC from entering their office in Ikoyi, Lagos on Tuesday morning. The EFCC in its reaction, described the barricade of its Lagos office by the operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) as condemnable. In a statement on Tuesday, the EFCC spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren said the siege laid by the DSS at its office has left suspects in detention without care with grave implications. Uwujaren stated that the lockout has affected the Commissions operations at its largest hub with over 500 personnel, hundreds of critical exhibits, and many suspects in detention. But the Department of State Services (DSS) rejected claims that its staff barred agents of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) from accessing its Lagos office. President Tinubu in a statement issued by his media office said the two Federal Government agencies to resolve amicably any difference between them. READ MORE: DSS Storms Lagos EFCC Office, Blocks Officials From Accessing Building The statement read: The President gave the directive when reports that DSS officials stormed the EFCC office located on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos on Tuesday, preventing officials of the anti-graft agency from accessing their workplace, was brought to his attention. The President said if there were issues between the two important agencies of government, they should be resolved amicably. Socio-political commentator, Reno Omokri, as well as Shehu Sani, former Kaduna Central lawmaker have applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubus actions in the first 24 hours in office. Information Nigeria reports that their reaction stems from the Presidents bold statement on subsidy removal, meeting with the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, and the Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Mele Kyari as well as his stance on the Department of State Services (DSS) and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) saga. Recall that Tinubu alongside the vice president, Kashim Shettima was sworn in on Monday, May 29, 2023, and assumed office on Tuesday. READ ALSO: Subsidy Removal A Bold Move, Atiku Wouldve Done Same Reno Omokri In a post via Twitter on Tuesday, Reno said Tinubu unlike his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari kept to his word and began work with immediate effect. He tweeted, Making a bold statement on subsidy removal and backing it up with action. Meeting Godwin Emefiele, then Mele Kyari. Making a string of appointments. Asserting his authority over the DSS in their face-off with the EFCC. Tinubu, unlike Buhari, has hit the ground running. I sincerely pray that our petition will succeed and President Tinubus election will be nullified. But be that as it may, I must commend the actions of his first 24 hours in office Sani on the face off between the DSS and the EFCC tweeted: If it was the former President, the Boys Scout will seal the office of the Civil Defence and it will take months without any action taken, until may be the vigilantes steps in on their own to rescue the situation. Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has emerged the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum, the umbrella body of governors of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State made this known on Wednesday when he led a team of APC governors during a visit to the partys national secretariat in Abuja. The governors were in Abuja to meet the National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling APC chaired by the partys National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu. Besides Buni and Uzodimma, those present at the meeting include Governors Mohammed Bago (Niger), Senator Uba Sani (Kaduna), Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Yahaya Bello (Kogi). Also in attendance was the APC National Secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore as well as other members of the NWC. Addressing the APC National Chairman, Governor Buni introduced Uzodinma as the new Progressives Forum chairman to the party leadership. In his remark, the APC Chairman congratulated the governors on their victory in the March governorship polls. He advised them to settle down to work and bring good governance to the people of their respective states. Adamu commended the governors for carving out time to attend the meeting in Abuja despite the short notice given to them. READ MORE: Second Niger Bridge Is Enough Indication For South-East To Vote Tinubu Uzodimma He said: One of the issues we thought we will express our desire to have you take steps to ensure that you fill the vacuum created with the exit of your predecessors (with) the leadership of the Progressives Governors Forum. As God will have it, you filled the vacuum before this meeting with us. It is our hope and prayer that God will continue to guide you in all that you will be doing to administering to our people. Senator Adamu admonished Uzodimma to adhere to the manifestoes of the ruling party in carrying his colleagues along. Responding, Governor Uzodimma pledged to work with the national and sub-national levels while at the helm of affairs. He said: Under my watch, we will be very close to the party. The purpose of the forum is to add impetus to the activities of the party and governance. I can assure you that you have a team, that working together with the kind of men I have seen as Progressives Governors members, we have gotten all that it will take to ensure that the policies (are followed). David's Bridal in Plymouth Meeting. The Conshohocken-based company filed for bankruptcy in April 2023. Read more Davids Bridal is laying off some workers sooner than expected. The wedding dress company based in Conshohocken announced in April that it would be closing stores and laying off 9,236 people across the country only days before it filed for bankruptcy. Three waves of layoffs were planned for Pennsylvania, which were to take place in April, May, and between June and August. Now, employees in the state who were scheduled to be laid off between June 12 and Aug. 11 will be laid off between June 2 and July 24. Pennsylvania counties affected by all waves of layoffs include Allegheny, Blair, Bucks, Dauphin, Delaware, Erie, Luzerne, Montgomery, and York, although the specific number of employees affected was not announced. Advertisement Other states are also experiencing this acceleration in layoffs. Ohio and Wisconsin, which were expecting workers to be laid off between early June and early August, will now see these layoffs take place by late June, according to company notices. In Wisconsin, 147 workers will be laid off in total. The number of workers affected in Ohio was not specified. Davids Bridal changed the timeline in order to comply with requirements recently imposed by the bankruptcy court and to fulfill other business needs to close locations sooner, according to the company notices. James Marcum, Davids Bridals CEO, said earlier this year that the company faced a challenging post-COVID environment and uncertain economic conditions. At the time of the layoff announcement in April, a spokesperson for the company said the company could be sold. A representative from Davids Bridal could not immediately be reached for comment on the change of timeline. The company, which has been in business for over 70 years, filed for bankruptcy twice in the last five years and emerged from a Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2019. Despite the bankruptcy and layoffs, the company has continued to reassure customers that their dress orders will still be processed throughout these past few months. In a message posted to the companys website in April, which is still linked to the home page, Marcum said, I want to emphasize again, our stores and online platforms are open. Our team members are here for you. Your orders are our first priority. When youre looking for a repair shop, first check if the appliance is still under warranty. If it is, youll be limited to factory-authorized shops. Read more Household appliances used to be made to last. Those trusty avocado-green stoves and refrigerators from the 1960s and 70s kept on kicking well into the 2000s. But now, more complex features and less durable parts mean the machines we rely on tend to be less reliable. When your equipment breaks down, you need a fix and often quickly. Nonprofit Delaware Valley Consumers Checkbook rated local appliance-repair services and found shops that were rated highly by customers and offered low prices. Choose your shop carefully: Some were rated superior for overall service by more than 90% of their surveyed customers, but others received such favorable ratings from fewer than half of their surveyed customers. To help you find a quality service, Inquirer readers can see Checkbooks ratings of local appliance-repair services and tips for free until July 5 at Checkbook.org/Inquirer/Appliance-Repair. Youll want to shop around for price. Checkbooks undercover shoppers priced specific repair jobs and found that shop-to-shop price differences can be substantial. For example, the amount to replace the bake element on a GE Cafe Series oven (model C2S985SET6SS) ranged from $130 to $399, and prices to replace the washer door boot seal on a front-loading LG washer (model WM2140CW) ranged from $163 to $500. When youre looking for a repair shop, first check if the appliance is still under warranty if it is, youll be limited to factory-authorized shops. Unfortunately, manufacturers dont necessarily pick the best companies to perform their warranty repairs. Manufacturers rarely, if ever, check on the quality of their authorized shops, and those that do often conduct only occasional cursory reviews. Checkbook found that shops that perform warranty repairs get far lower ratings from their customers than shops that dont. Advertisement Once you find a good repair service, youll need to know how to deal with it. Here are some guidelines. Before the repair service arrives When you call for an appointment, ask how the company calculates charges especially what its minimum charge covers. Also find out the companys policy on travel charges if the technician must return to the shop for parts. Repair services usually dont charge for travel time for the second visit, but make sure. If the company charges on a time-and-materials basis, ask how it calculates time charges. Describe your appliances woes as accurately as possible: when the problem occurs, what it sounds like, how the appliance responds to different settings. This will help the company send the right technician, put necessary parts on the truck, and schedule enough time for the job. Before the technician arrives, clear everything away from the appliance so that work can start at once. When the technician arrives Describe the appliances problem to the technician just as you did over the phone. Avoid offering your own diagnosis or the pro may make the repair you request instead of fixing the machine. After the diagnosis is complete, request a final price to fix it. If the estimate seems too high, ask the technician how long the estimate is good for and whether coming back will incur an additional travel charge many companies will give you a few days to think it over and not charge for more travel. Then call a few other repair services for price quotes. Ask about any warranties on parts and labor. Ask to see any replaced parts. Before paying, obtain an invoice that includes your name and address; the companys name and address; a description of appliance repaired, including make and model; date of service; itemized charges; and any warranty on parts, labor, or both. If you can, pay by credit card. If there is a problem, you can dispute the transaction with your credit card issuer. Repair or replace? Before seeking service on an older appliance, or deciding to make a costly repair, you may have a choice to make: To fix or replace? Its not always a clear-cut decision. For example, the average life span cited for appliances can be misleading. If you have an appliance that is seven years old, and it has an average life span of 12 years, its actually very likely to work well beyond that average figure. Also, dont assume that because one component of an appliance breaks, others will soon follow. The appliance might last years without any further problems. Also factor in your usage if you only do a few loads of laundry a week, the washer/dryer is apt to last longer than average. On the other hand, you might yearn for new features, a new look, or greater energy efficiency. Keep in mind that some appliances, like clothes dryers, arent much more efficient today than they were years ago, and even with appliances that have made strides, energy use wont change if you only do a handful of loads a week. On the other hand, youll do the world and your electric bill a big favor by getting rid of old fridges or freezers. Delaware Valley Consumers Checkbook magazine and Checkbook.org is a nonprofit organization with a mission to help consumers get the best service and lowest prices. We are supported by consumers and take no money from the service providers we evaluate. A first grader works on a drawing of King Tut's mask during art class at Global Leadership Academy Charter School in West Philadelphia in this April 2019 file photo. A charter high school proposing to follow the Global Leadership model was just rejected by the Philadelphia school board. Read more The Philadelphia school board last week again rejected a proposed charter high school affiliated with two existing charters in West Philadelphia a relationship that board members said wasnt adequately acknowledged by the charters backers. But not everyone agreed with the denial of Global Leadership Academy International Charter High School, which said it wasnt formally tied to two other Global Leadership schools and shouldnt be evaluated on their merits, though it pledged to follow their model. Board member Lisa Salley said the school districts evaluation of the charters application reflected bias. Something about the process here is very alarming, Salley said before the board voted Thursday, 7-2, to deny the application for the new charter, which sought approval to open this fall on North Broad Street and eventually enroll 600 students. Advertisement Salley, who along with board member Cecilia Thompson voted no, said there appeared to be lots of personal bias, versus figuring out whats best for the children. Other board members pushed back on the comments, which came as the district faces allegations that it has discriminated against Black-led charters. I think we have to be very careful when we use terms like bias, said Sarah-Ashley Andrews, adding that we need to call a spade a spade and say this is a lack of transparency. Charter schools, which are publicly funded but independently managed, educate about one-third of public school students in the city. The school district is charged with evaluating charters; a coalition of Black charter leaders has said their schools are disproportionately rejected or targeted for closure. An investigation commissioned by the school board into the claims is ongoing. Naomi Johnson-Booker, the CEO of Global Leadership Academy Charter School one of the two other Global Leadership schools and a member of the African-American Charter Schools Coalition, said the districts evaluation was unfair. Am I a threat to somebody? Johnson-Booker, a founding member of the proposed high school, said in an interview Tuesday. She said she and others made clear that the high school was independent from Global Leadership Academy Charter School and Global Leadership Academy Charter School Southwest at Huey, both K-8 schools in West Philadelphia. But district officials said the high school qualified as an existing charter operator, given its ties to the other Global Leadership schools: In addition to sharing the Global Leadership name, the proposed high school would rely on the educational model used at the existing charters, and planned to contract with Global Academies, a company that provides services to those two schools. The school would give admissions preference to students from the existing Global Leadership charters. The existing charter operator section of the charter application was tailor-made for them to highlight their successes and in some instances, to address their challenges, Peng Chao, director of the districts Charter Schools Office, told the school board. He said the failure to address it was on the one hand curious, and on the other hand, concerning. Some board members noted concerns about the academic performance of the existing Global Leadership charters. Johnson-Booker, meanwhile, said the high school shouldnt be assessed based on the K-8 schools. There is no relationship, other than a model that I have created that works for children, said Johnson-Booker, a former school district administrator who took over Global Leadership Academy Charter School from another charter operator in 2006. In 2016, she took over the former district-run Samuel B. Huey Elementary School to become Global Leadership Academy Charter School Southwest at Huey. Im not just somebody who fell off a mountain, Johnson-Booker said. While the high school had revised its application after it was first denied by the school board in February, it still didnt fully complete the section regarding existing charter schools, according to Chao. He said the charter also didnt supply a contract with Global Academies, the vendor that would be supplying services, and that was represented by the same law firm as the charter. Johnson-Booker said Global Academies wasnt a management company that would be running the high school but a vendor that answered to her. I meet with them, I tell them what my needs are, Johnson-Booker said, adding that the company provides educational, operational, and financial services to anyone, not just to schools. Board member Julia Danzy, who voted against the proposed charter, said she approved of Global Leaderships model exposing children to the broader world, including through international travel. But she said the school board would be demonstrating bias if it didnt call out the charter for the omission in its application. At the end of the day, we dont have two sets of children, Danzy said. We have Philadelphias children, who just happen to be attending different types of schools. Police keep an eye on large groups of teens gathered on the beach in Ocean City, N.J., in 2021. Read more The crackdown on teenagers continues at the Jersey Shore as officials in Ocean City aim to curb bad behavior on the beaches and boardwalk. Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian, in a news release issued Tuesday, said police responded to 999 total incidents over Memorial Day weekend, though they did not specify how many of these incidents involved teenagers. The incidents include underage drinking, vandalism, assaults, shoplifting, confiscation of a firearm, and others. Gillian said there were 869 incidents during last years holiday weekend. As a result, Gillian took steps Tuesday to shut the party down earlier this summer. All beaches will be closed at 8 p.m. and carrying backpacks will not be permitted after 8 p.m. on the beach and boardwalk. Boardwalk restrooms will be closed at 10 p.m. The curfew for juveniles will be moved up from 1 a.m. to 11 p.m. We want parents, grandparents and families to know that were all in this together, and we will be holding people accountable, Gillian said in the news release. I also want to send a message to our governor and legislators that the laws they forced on all municipalities are a threat to public safety, and they deprive families of the opportunity to enjoy the Jersey Shore. Advertisement In December of 2020, a directive from the New Jersey attorney generals office set limits on how police interact with juveniles, particularly juveniles suspected of drinking or smoking marijuana, or violating local ordinances. Gillian, in his press release, said state legislation stripped police officers of the ability to question juveniles, search juveniles, and confiscate alcohol. The legislation, he claims, also eliminates meaningful consequences for juveniles who break these laws. Gillian said Ocean Citys firefighters and EMTs had to deal with teens who drank to the point of unconsciousness as well as assault victims and others dealing with mental health issues. The new beach curfew will apply to people of all ages, as will the evening backpack ban. I understand that these new directives will affect many people who are not teens, but its important that we stop this type of behavior now, Gillian said. In the end, protecting our reputation as Americas Greatest Family Resort will benefit everybody in Ocean City. In recent months, other Shore towns have cracked down on backpacks. Last week, Wildwood announced a total ban on alcohol on any of the citys beaches and boardwalk. Update: The New Jersey Attorney Generals Office directive to set limits on how police interact with juveniles was enacted in 2020. An earlier version of this story had an incorrect date. The vice chair and two commissioners of Philadelphias Citizens Police Oversight Commission resigned Tuesday, with the vice chair claiming that a toxic environment of petty power moves has prevented any progress. The agency, created by City Council after George Floyds murder in response to calls for police accountability, is now missing a third of its nine board members. The commissioners vice chair, Afroza Hossain, and commissioners Maryelis Santiago and Benjamin Lerner all resigned within hours of each other. Interviews with commissioners and a review of recent CPOC meetings indicate that tensions over the commissioners influence on the day-to-day duties of the oversight commission have been escalating for months. Those duties include police department policy audits, investigation of civilian complaints, and community relations work. Commissioners have forced staff to seek their permission to perform daily work activities, slowing progress, staff and commissioners say. The appointed board members and staff have clashed over delays in hiring, staff salaries, and operational expenses. In an unusual move, the commissioners requested the commissions dozen-plus staff members share their resumes which staffers said the appointed board did not have the authority to do. Advertisement The commission as a body has not been able to do one thing that relates to police commission work for reform and oversights. Instead, they have been causing issues and dysfunction and bullying and just creating a really untenable environment, Hossain said in an interview Tuesday. Its just become a really toxic environment where you cant get anything done. The commissions public meeting in April highlighted some of the ongoing discord. The commissioners spent more than half an hour addressing a physical altercation that had erupted during a recent community meeting an incident that commissioners said was referred to the Office of the Inspector General for investigation. Commissioners then quarreled at length over whether to allow CPOC to send a staffer to a national police oversight conference in May to present a policy project on CPOCs policy work regarding police body-worn cameras. One commissioner objected to the fact that none of the commissioners were invited to present at the conference. Others said they werent given enough notice to make a decision. Hossain said that over the last year, the commission has been consumed by bullying and squabbles on the part of four commissioners in particular: Jahlee Hatchett, Hassan Bennett, Rosaura Torres Thomas and Melanie Debouse. Hatchett, Bennett and Torres Thomas, all reached by phone Tuesday, said they were caught off guard by the resignations and Hossains claims. The three said there were merely differences of opinion on the nine-member board and that they were focused on the best interests of the community. Debouse could not be reached for comment. I think that when theres nine different people from nine different walks of life, we didnt always agree, said Hatchett, who serves as commission chair. But I think that so far weve been able to make progress with the commission. I didnt get the sense that bullying or anything like that was going on. Hossain, in her resignation letter, called for the ousting of the four commissioners or restructuring of the commission if they remained. One of the issues at the center of Hossains claims is the search for a permanent executive director. Since the commission began, Anthony Erace has served as the interim executive director. The four commissioners, Hossain said, had banded together in a concerted conspiracy to prevent Erace from becoming the permanent executive director. Hatchett, Thomas and Bennett all said that there was no plan to fire Erace, and that they had merely raised concerns about a potential candidate. To say that we have been sabotaging him is false, said Bennett. Erace did not return calls for comment. Hossain also alleged the mishandling of the hiring process for a general counsel position. In her resignation letter, she claimed that Hatchett and Torres Thomas spoke to a reporter from Axios about a candidate for the general counsel position. The resignations and claims of internal strife come little more than a year after Philadelphia City Council created the commission in response to loud calls in Philadelphia and across the country for changes in the police department. The commission replaced the Police Advisory Commission, which many saw as underfunded and relatively powerless. The legislation that created the commission, sponsored by Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr., was designed to have nine appointed commissioners to increase transparency and representation in police districts across the city. Some say the opposite has happened. A source close to the situation at CPOC, who asked not to be identified to protect their employment, said there is concern that the strife will lead many staffers to leave the office, further kneecapping the commissions work. Im honestly concerned that CPOC is going to implode because of the untenable situation brewing between the commissioners and the staffers, the source said. The commission is meant to have an executive director, chief counsel, and other staff. It also has nine members chosen by a selection committee and confirmed by City Council. The commission would have subpoena power and access to crime scenes and records, which the Police Advisory Commission did not. The body will review all complaints against police made by citizens, employees of the Police Department, and other city workers. It can also investigate officer conduct, such as in instances involving the use of force or discharging a firearm, and can recommend criminal charges or discipline. And it can conduct audits and make policy recommendations. In a statement, Jones attributed the resignations to growing pains and said the search would begin for replacements who are committed to the mission, dedicated to serving, and willing to begin the tough work ahead. The selection panel gave second interviews to 32 finalists and recommended nine who they collectively believed would be helpful in enhancing police oversight in Philadelphia, Jones said. In forming a new independent oversight commission, growing pains are inevitable. I thank the commissioners for their hard work and for their willingness to serve CPOC. Philadelphia police say they will have an increased presence at Penns Landing Tuesday after dispersing a large crowd of teens from the area on Memorial Day. Authorities said they were alerted to the crowd at about 7 p.m. Monday, and requested additional resources to help break up the gathering. Police reported several fights, as well as three vehicles that were vandalized after teenagers jumped on their windshields. While dealing with the crowd at Penns Landing, police received reports of gunshots fired nearby on the 100 block of South Front Street just after 8:15 p.m. Responding officers did not find any victims, but located two fired cartridge casings, police said. Around 11 p.m., the remaining crowd at Penns Landing dispersed without incident. Advertisement Authorities will continue to monitor the area for the foreseeable future and work with local partners to deploy resources there, Philadelphia Police Department spokesperson Tanya Little said. Large crowds are not expected at Penns Landing on Tuesday night. The incident comes following a gathering of hundreds of teenagers at the Fashion District. At the time, police officials offered different versions of the disorder, with some alleging that the teens threw rocks and stomped on cruisers. Other police reports did not mention that kind of activity. Four teens were issued citations as a result of that fracas, and the Fashion District instituted an age restriction that keeps minors out of the mall after 2 p.m. if they dont have a parent or supervising adult with them. In Philadelphia, teenagers have increasingly limited options for places to gather with friends, The Inquirer previously reported. Compared to other similarly sized cities, Philadelphia does not significantly invest in public spaces, the Trust for Public Land, a national nonprofit, found in a recent study. Are there opportunities for young people to come together and engage with things that they wanna engage in? Marcia Hopkins, director of youth advocacy at the Juvenile Law Center said last month. I would say [in] our city, theres not that many spaces for [that]. A Levittown woman killed her estranged husband at a public park in broad daylight Tuesday, police said, ending what court records and family members described as an abusive relationship. Sammar Khan, 40, shot Faisal Iqbal multiple times with a 9mm handgun at Bristol Wharf, a waterfront park in the Bucks County borough, according to police. Multiple witnesses told investigators Khan and Iqbal, 38, were arguing loudly when gunshots rang out. Iqbal walked toward the parking lot as he screamed for someone to call 911 and Khan continued to shoot at him, even after he collapsed into the grass, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed in Khans arrest. Khan remained at the park until police arrived, but called her boyfriend, the affidavit said. She told him she had killed Iqbal, and she needed him to pick up her son from the wharf. Advertisement Khan has been charged with murder, possession of an instrument of a crime, and reckless endangerment. She remained in custody Wednesday, denied bail. Khan had successfully applied for a protection from abuse order against her husband in February 2022, alleging that he threatened her. Two months later, in April, Iqbal drove to Khans home and sat in a parked car outside, violating the order, court records show. A Bucks County judge sentenced Iqbal to two months in jail for violating the PFA and he served 23 days before being released again. Sammar Khans brother, Imran Khan, said that his older sister often confided to him about how poorly Iqbal treated her. He said she told him that Iqbal berated and, sometimes, beat her. He gave her a lot of trouble, but I know she didnt want to kill him, Khan said. It had to be self-defense, I know it. She was always thinking about her kids. The couple, married in 2009 in their native Pakistan, had three children together, and also raised a fourth child of Khans from a previous relationship. Last month, Iqbal filed for divorce and for custody of the couples three biological children, a claim his lawyer, Iriana Blithstein, said was contested by Khan. He was looking forward to starting his life, and this happened, Blithstein said of Iqbal. Blithstein said Iqbal loved his children above all else. His slaying, she said, was a tragedy beyond words. Mrs. Perry Devonish, colleagues said, helped the Philadelphia Foundation become "recognized nationally as being one of the most diverse and progressive community foundations in the country." Read more Carrolle Perry Devonish, 85, formerly of Philadelphia, the first female and Black director of the Philadelphia Foundation, retired executive director of the Anguilla Community Foundation, former local development director for the United Negro College Fund, celebrated consultant on community philanthropy, and mentor, died Wednesday, May 3, of a heart condition while traveling in Bogota, Colombia. Mrs. Perry Devonish began her career coordinating philanthropy in Philadelphia in the 1980s and, over the next two decades, connected hundreds of philanthropists with community service organizations that addressed inequities regarding education, arts and culture, health and medicine, employment, crime, and social justice for minorities, women, and underrepresented people. Her tenure as director of the Philadelphia Foundation, from 1991 to 1999, is called the Perry phase by admiring colleagues, and she focused on building long-term assets and working closely with community leaders in making hundreds of grants for millions of dollars every year. She concentrated, she told the Association of Black Foundation Executives in 2008, on issues at the neighborhood level and pointed donors to using their resources to have an impact on their communities. Advertisement She was particularly active among Black philanthropists. African Americans were seen as recipients of giving and not necessarily the givers, she said in 2008. That is a myth that is and continues to be. She solicited hundreds of diverse donors and specialized in small donations and innovative funding. By 1997, the foundation had grown to 282 donor funds, awarded $8.8 million in grants to 656 nonprofits, and was recognized by the National Center for Responsive Philanthropy for its progressive strategy. Her work will stand long after she is gone, Peter B. Vaughan, former foundation board chairman, said in 1998. The Inquirers Claude Lewis wrote about Mrs. Perry Devonish in 1994, saying she gets things done, helping as many individuals as is humanly possible through programs that are as lean as they are effective. Mrs. Perry Devonish told Lewis: Were known as the place to come when you want to give to others but your heart is larger than your pocketbook. Colleagues at the Association of Black Foundation Executives called her an unsung heroine of Black philanthropy and a quiet elder who eschewed recognition for her achievements. They cited her leadership and stewardship of philanthropic ideas when they honored her as the 2008 James A. Joseph Lecturer. She was also a founder and former executive director of the Anguilla Community Foundation, the first charitable trust on the Caribbean island, and later was chair of the Association of Caribbean Foundations. Assistant director at the Philadelphia Foundation from 1983 to 1987, she left to join the United Negro College Fund and returned in 1991 when she was hired as foundation director. Earlier, she worked in Philadelphia for the Fellowship Commission and Urban League. She moved to Anguilla from Philadelphia in 1999. Soft-spoken yet direct, Mrs. Perry Devonish lectured at conferences around the world, organized philanthropy tours to South Africa, and consulted for the Pew Charitable Trusts and others. She was a trustee at the Douty Foundation and on boards at the Association of Black Foundation Executives, Council on Foundations, Delaware Valley Grantmakers, and other groups. She was a tireless mentor to many and featured in the 2020 book, They Carried Us. The Social Impact of Philadelphias Black Women Leaders. Her empathy and humanity broke down barriers of class, race, educational level, national origin, sexual orientation, wealth and more, a former colleague told Authority Magazine in 2020. Born April 23, 1938 in Seattle, Carrolle Sandra Fair earned a bachelors degree at Fisk University in Nashville, Tenn., in 1960 and a masters degree in social work at Howard University in Washington in 1963. She lived in Harlem for a time after college and earned a scholarship to study in Ghana for a summer. She married Pete Ward, and they had sons Peter and Aubrey, and lived in Washington. After a divorce, she married William Perry, and they lived in Riverside Township, Old City, and West Philadelphia. He died in 1996. Her first husband also died earlier. She met sculptor Courtney Devonish in the Caribbean, and they married in 1999 and lived in Anguilla. Mrs. Perry Devonish enjoyed mysteries and poetry by Langston Hughes, created intricate beaded necklaces, and traveled to nearly every continent. She had heart surgery in 2019. She was graceful and intelligent, said her son Aubrey. She had a wisdom about her and an inner toughness. She was a tough cookie. A colleague said in an online tribute: She was a lovely, wonderful, powerful person. A cousin said: Growing up with you as a little girl my life is so much richer. In addition to her husband and sons, Mrs. Perry Devonish is survived by three grandchildren and other relatives. A celebration of her life is to be at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 10, at Zion Baptist Church, 3600 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19140. Donations in her name may be made to Fisk University, Office of Advancement Services, 1000 17th Ave. N., Nashville, Tenn. 37208. Asian American Hollywood staples M. Night Shyamalan and Daniel Dae Kim, both of whom grew up in Eastern Pennsylvania, have recently spoken out about why representation is so critical for film and television. Representation provides a fuller, richer understanding of our neighbors and the world around us while also creating new role models for people from all walks of life. Without representation, were left with stereotypes, misunderstandings, and alienated audiences. But the need for representation doesnt end with your latest Netflix binge not even close. Our doctors, law enforcement officials, politicians, and judges should all reflect the communities they represent or work in. On those fronts, and many others, were still falling short. Take our commonwealth courts, for example. In Pennsylvanias 236-year history, there have only been three people of color to ever sit on Pennsylvanias highest court, and none of them were Asian American or Pacific Islander American. Of those three, Justice Robert N.C. Nix Jr., a Black man, was the only one to actually be elected to the court by voters, serving behind the bench for more than two decades. That regrettable record of representation on our highest court becomes even more damning when you consider that Pennsylvania is approximately 25% nonwhite. Today, Pennsylvania is one of 18 states with an all-white state Supreme Court, according to a new analysis from the Brennan Center for Justice. Nationwide, people of color account for around 40% of the population, but justices of color make up just 20% of state Supreme Court seats. You dont need a crystal ball to understand why this is such a concerning problem. Advertisement Our judicial system depends on trust, not politics, to function. Without trust, everything falls apart. Whether its a friendship, a relationship, or a visit to a local court, trust is built on connection. Pennsylvanians need to feel confident that a judge will consider their lived experiences and that theyre getting a fair shake. As a Black woman and an activist battling for years for fair courts, Ive seen with my own eyes just how crucial a highly qualified and representative judiciary is when it comes to building public confidence. Theres deep value in having your day in court and seeing your community reflected back at you. That kind of trust is what allows all Pennsylvanians to respect major rulings, even when we dont fully agree with them. Lets not kid ourselves state courts matter now more than ever. The U.S. Supreme Court and other federal courts continue to hand off debates about key rights and freedoms to the states. Our courts here in the commonwealth frequently have the final word on decisive matters like abortion, neighborhood safety, voting rights, civil protections, access to health care, education funding, workers protections, and the quality of our air and water. That means that the stakes in our courtrooms are way too high to not have a judiciary we can all believe in. Every May during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and during all other heritage months were asked to stop and consider how each vibrant part of our country combines to make a stronger, better whole. That acknowledgment, along with the resulting calls for representation, helps put us on a better path. Progress is often slow, but its a process we can start now. Together, Pennsylvanians can work toward a future that promises equal justice for all by ensuring our state courts represent all the people in our great commonwealth. Kadida Kenner is the founding CEO of the New Pennsylvania Project, a statewide voting rights organization with a primary focus on voter registration, and cochair of Why Courts Matter Pennsylvania, a campaign educating Pennsylvanians about the importance of the independence of both the federal and state courts. She writes from Chester County. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy of Calif., speaks as he meets with President Joe Biden to discuss the debt limit in the Oval Office. Read more The House is set to vote Wednesday on a bill that would suspend the debt ceiling. The vote will act as a test for House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who worked on the bipartisan bill with President Joe Biden. Their plan to avert a major default on the nations debt has been scrutinized by hard-line Republicans, but now only a final vote stands in the way of the bills ability to head to the Senate. Heres what you need to know. When is the vote and how can I watch it? The House is on track to begin consideration Wednesday afternoon, though the exact time hasnt been specified, The New York Times reported. Following debate on the floor, a final passage vote will take place sometime this evening. You can follow along by watching the Houses livestream on its website. Some news outlets, including PBS, will stream on YouTube. CSPAN and other TV stations will broadcast the proceedings. Whats in the bill? Months in the making, the bill represents a modest deal that gives both McCarthy and Biden wins to tout. Biden was able to protect major parts of his agenda from Republican cuts and McCarthy scored several conservative spending caps and changes to government programs. McCarthy has pledged that the House will vote on the legislation Wednesday, giving the Senate time to consider it before June 5, the date when Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the United States could default on its debt obligations if lawmakers did not act. Advertisement Still, passing the bill could be a heavy lift. A growing number of hardline conservatives expressed early concerns that the compromise does not cut future deficits enough, while Democrats have been worried about proposed changes to work requirements in programs such as food stamps. Details in the bill include new spending limits and a two-year debt limit suspension, the rescindment of about $30 billion in unspent coronavirus relief money, the clawback of $10 billion in IRS funding, and a new streamlining process to get energy projects approved quicker. Overall, the Congressional Budget Office projected Tuesday that the bill would reduce budget deficits by about $1.5 trillion over the next decade. How would the bill impact me? The 99-page bill would impact groups of people including veterans, people receiving assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, those who have student loans, and more. New SNAP requirements The bill would expand work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps a longtime Republican priority. It would phase in a higher age limit, from 49 to 54, over the next two years. But the maximum age would return to 49 by 2030. It would also expand SNAP benefits reach to veterans, homeless people, and young people who are aging out of foster care until 2030. Care for veterans The bill would fully fund medical care for veterans at the levels included in Bidens proposed 2024 budget blueprint, including a fund dedicated to veterans who have been exposed to toxic substances or environmental hazards. Biden sought $20.3 billion for the toxic exposure fund in his budget. Ending the student loan freeze Biden agreed to end the pause on student loan repayment. If the bill is passed, it means student loan payments would resume in September. The fate of Bidens broader student loan relief, meanwhile, will be decided at the Supreme Court, which is dominated 6-3 by its conservative wing. During oral arguments in the case, several justices expressed deep skepticism about the legality of Bidens plan. A decision is expected before the end of June. READ MORE: How Biden's student-debt relief is helping Philly-area borrowers: I can pay rent and utilities Whats left out of the bill? House Republicans passed legislation last month that would have created new work requirements for some Medicaid recipients, but that was left out of the final agreement. The idea faced stiff opposition from the White House and congressional Democrats, who said it would lead to fewer people able to afford food or health care without actually increasing the number of people in the workforce. Also absent from the final deal is the GOP proposal to repeal many of the clean-energy tax credits Democrats passed in party-line votes last year to boost the production and consumption of clean energy. McCarthy and Republicans have argued that the tax breaks distort the market and waste taxpayer money. The White House has defended the tax credits as resulting in hundreds of billions of dollars in private-sector investments, creating thousands of U.S. manufacturing jobs. How can I read the whole bill? Heres a copy of the proposed bill in full: The Associated Press contributed to this report. The house has been restored and expanded little by little since 1974. Read more It has been a long relationship between Len Fesi and the 18th-century farmhouse in Collegeville. When he bought it in 1974, it was pretty hideous and unlivable. But he had been living in a 19th-century converted schoolhouse in Bucks County, sealing his attachment to older homes. Over the decades, as he raised his family there, Fesi slowly brought it back to life, putting on a carriage house and garage, adding a large family room, a new kitchen, a spa room. Even when he moved his permanent residence to Delaware in 2010, he kept improving the four-bedroom, three-bath house that dates to 1702. But now Fesi, retired human resources director for a publishing company, is ready to pass on the project to someone else. Youve got to keep up with an old house, said Fesi. And now Im too old to keep up with it. Advertisement The house is in a quiet, maturely landscaped setting at the end of a long driveway. The living room has deep window sills, wide-plank wood floors, and a stone fireplace converted to electric. The formal dining room has built-in cabinetry, a fireplace with a wood-burning stove, and a decorative period wood mantel. The step-down family room has a cathedral ceiling, open beams, an exposed brick wall, wood-burning stove, and French doors. The kitchen has an exposed fieldstone wall, a large center island, and ample counter space, and adjoins a breakfast room with French doors leading to a multilevel deck. The atrium/spa is a second family room with a hot tub and sliding doors with a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The bedrooms are on the second floor, including a primary bedroom with cathedral ceilings, a large walk-in closet, and a bathroom with double sinks and an adjoining office or exercise room. There is a walk-up attic and a detached garage with room for two cars and a workshop. The basement is unfinished, with a cement floor, and a walk-in fireplace dating from its earlier use as a kitchen. The 3,284-square-foot house is in the Methacton School District and has easy access to downtown Collegeville and Routes 29, 422 and 113. It is listed by Jane Douglass of BHHS Fox & Roach-Blue Bell for $629,000. Commenting on the appointment spree, Moray & Agnew national managing partner Geoff Connellan said: Congratulations to each of these lawyers on their well-deserved promotions. We acknowledge and thank them for their hard work for our clients and their ongoing contribution to our firm. WTW is proud to have developed a new type of parametric insurance which pays out faster for sugarcane farmers, underpinned by over 20 years of sugarcane production research by the CSIRO including soil, agronomy, and climate data. With each policy being tailored to crop location, soil type, and crop start time, farmers can insure one, some, or all of their ratoon blocks, providing complete flexibility and control over their buying decision, said WTW account director Russell Mehmet. Our mission is to help improve the financial wellbeing of Australians living with serious illness or disability, by providing pro bono financial advice, and to inspire others to do the same, Beswick said. Having the support from trusted brands like Zurich Assure enables us to service more clients and ultimately extend our services to others that need our assistance. We also hope to inspire the next generation of advisers and increase awareness of the value that we bring to others through our profession. Ricardo is a highly accomplished and trusted strategic advisor whose exceptional legal acumen and extensive knowledge of complex, global business and legal issues make him a valuable addition to our senior leadership team, Andrade said. Ricards experience in fluently navigating broad regulatory, compliance and litigation issues across the US, Bermuda and other global markets will be an asset as we advance our global strategic objectives. With a proven track record of developing talent and collaborative, diverse and inclusive teams, Ricardo is a high-impact leader who shares Everests cultural values. From around 30 previously, the NZIAs members count is now down to 17. According to the consortiums website, as of this writing, the following companies continue to be part of the United Nations-convened group: As we welcome Paul and Dominic to our executive leadership team, we also express our deepest gratitude to Mike for his lasting contributions that have helped MassMutual become the industry leader that it is today, Crandall said. Mike led an unprecedented period of growth and change for the company, all of which was spent ensuring that each day, MassMutuals policyowners were at the center of everything we do. This will be Mikes most enduring legacy, and we wish him all the best in a well-deserved retirement. Paul Lucas 09:07:18 Hello everyone and welcome to the latest edition of Insurance Business TV a contractor's liability special brought to you in association with Tokio Marine, HCC, cyber and professional lines group. Construction and contracting professionals from general contractors to electrical or plumbing contractors through to design or build contractors, of course all face a host of challenges in their day to day roles and are often at considerable financial risk because of the types and quality of services that they deliver to their clients. As such, they need a specialist solution for the unique exposures. But where do they get it? What are the risks they should be protecting against? And which coverages should they be looking out for? To answer all of these questions and more Tokio Marine, HCC cyber and professional Lyons group has put together an expert panel from its ranks, who I am delighted to welcome now. Jim Bechter, senior vice president architects and engineers and contractors professional liability, Lizzie Leavitt senior underwriter. Also from the architects and engineers and contractors Professional Liability segments of the group, we have Steve Hansen, Vice President of underwriting and Trevor Saccente lead underwriter. So welcome everyone. And to start us out, this is a complex segment. So I want to make sure everyone watching truly understands it. So Jim, I'm going to come to you tell us why the contractors need professional liability insurance. 09:08:49 Kind of a little bit of a history lesson. In the old days, you know, there was design bid build, which is kind of a traditional type of project delivery, where an owner would hire an architect and the architect would get provide plans and specifications to an owner. And you know, the owner would take those plans and ask contractors to bid on them. The contractors would not be providing professional services, they would just be taking the plans from the owner and building them per the plans provided by the architect. Well, more recently, and I'll go back into relatively recent time, let's just say the 90s, there was a bit of a growth in what's known as design build project delivery, where owners were looking to a single point of responsibility in this case, in most cases, contractors to bribe both design and construction. So it was a single source of both a design exposure and professional liability exposure that comes from that, and the build exposure. So with that there was a need in the marketplace, that to create an insurance product that would address a professional liability exposure that contractors had. And you know, contractors are used to carrying general liability, workers compensation, auto insurance, you know, builders risk, that sort of thing. But now when they were taking on design build responsibility, they had a professional liability exposure. So the impetus there with the growth of design build was for contractors to not only carry those traditional coverages that they had, but to also carry contractors Professional Liability coverage. And what we were seeing is that more and more owners were requiring contractors to carry contractors professional liability in their contracts, their contracts of hire, and to fill that need various insurance companies created contractors Professional Liability coverage. And, you know, this growth of design builds where the contractor is responsible for design now placed an exposure on the contractors for design services. So with that growth of design build, and with that growth of contractual requirements were for contractors to carry that a number of carriers did respond, we in turn, developed an insurance product back going back into the early 90s To address this exposure. And, you know, kind of how does that benefit a contractor? Well, a contractor could have design exposure either through in house employees that could have employed architects employed engineers, employed construction managers, or they could more more commonly they'll sub out the design exposure to licensed architects or licensed engineers to provide those plans and specifications. But you know, with that exposure, they had to have the coverage and there's other duties that the contractors are also taking on they might take on electrical or mechanical or HVAC or fire protection design services and and not only have those would be Design, they will also have to build them. So we developed a policy form to not only address the design exposures, but also some of the ancillary exposures that contractors have, they might be involved in building information modelling, Value Engineering constructability review design assists. So the idea was that as the services that contractors would have to render for design, build engagements, or just contracting activities encompass such things that may not be adequately addressed by general liability, but more appropriately addressed by contractors professional liability. And, you know, we think that having contractors Professional Liability allows the contractor to demonstrate to the owner, that they're risk management savvy, and that they carry all the appropriate coverages that an owner really needs that there to make sure that they exposures presented by by design, build construction, are adequately addressed. And I think that's a good message for contractors to send owners that they can demonstrate that they have contractors professional liability insurance. Now, in our program, we provide limits of liability, up to $5 million per claim, or $5 million in the aggregate. It's what's known as claims made and reported coverage. We offer it on a surplus lines basis in all 50 states of the United States. And it's a very broad coverage, again, encompassing primarily contractors, professional liability, but also pollution liability, and other related coverages that will be addressed later. But it's, you know, it is a very broad coverage. And our program, which is available in all 50 states can address the need of contractors. So the need is there. And we provide the coverage, Paul Lucas 09:14:08 Strong message and a fantastic overview as well. Jim, thank you very, very much, Trevor, if I can turn the conversation over to you. If you don't mind, just give us some insights into the claims trends, perhaps some common claims that you've seen within the segments of the market. 09:14:23 Well, claims are where the rubber meets the road. We have a saying on our team, concrete cracks, soils, and roofs leak. Contractors specializing in building envelopes, roofing and waterproofing can be problematic due to water intrusion, which leads to claims involving bold, rotted wood in the related claims. Also contractors involved in or specializing in foundations, or retaining walls can present with different potential types of claims, such as retaining wall collapses or failures, or differential foundation settlement, which leads to cracking or deflection in the building envelope. We consider general contractors involved in condominiums and residential construction as a higher risk. For most people, their home is their most expensive investment. As such, if someone finds a problem with their home, especially a new construction, they're more likely to take legal measures to obtain what they hoped they were buying. Some of our severe claims involve bodily injury where a construction worker is injured on the job site, or or a motorist has a traffic accident in a construction zone. We also see typical claims you would expect with construction such as cost overruns, delay claims and poor construction. Let me give you a couple of real claims that we have seen in the past. A fire protection contractor defaulted on the project and the surety completed the project. It was discovered that the fire protection contractor failed to verify the elevations on the plans and then recommended to the general contractor that a fire pump was not necessary. The fire pump was deemed necessary on the project and caused delays in the opening of the facility. The fire protection contractor did not carry professional liability insurance. Another example is a general contractor hired or hired an electro coal consultant to provide design services for the installation. Installation of lighting fixtures, the lighting fixtures caught fire, the cause was determined to be a design error. The sub consultant did not carry professional liability insurance and refuse to respond claim claiming he was going out of business. The professional liability policy for the contractor paid to have the lighting system redesigned and repaired. Now what can a contractor do to avoid being put in this scenario other than buying contractors professional, which we provide? Risk Management for contractors is always important. We have our contract risk management guide that we provide to all our insurance. The pandemic has caused contractors to review their contracts include a force majeure clause or a waiver of consequential damages clause. A force majeure clause is meant to address what happened when an unforeseeable event occurs that is beyond the control of both parties. such unforeseeable events can include acts of terrorism or fire earthquake storms, to name a few, but it should also include pandemics. We have typically recommended that firms use contracts with waiver of consequential damages clauses. Because consequential damages can include loss of use, loss of profits, loss of income and having waiver of consequential damages clauses could help limit liability associated with any unexpected delays. Some additional things a contractor can do to help minimize claims would be properly defined scope of services, good documentation, or good communication, having a risk like selection process and abort in order to avoid bad clients staying away from litigious projects or projects where the contractor has no experience, just to say a few. Paul Lucas 09:18:00 That's, that's the claims element and the risk management segment there as well combined. I'm going to switch it over to Lizzie now and let's delve into some of the coverage aspects of contractors professional liability, which coverages would you highlight Lizzie as being particularly important to protect the contractor? 09:18:18 Thanks, Paul. The primary purpose of the contractors professional policy is to cover professional services performed by employees as well as the vicarious liability of hiring professional sub consultants. The definition of professional services also includes services that contractor may perform on a construction only project such as building information modeling, building, commissioning, Value Engineering, constructability review and design assist. Therefore, there's a benefit to contractors who are not involved in the design build to also carry the coverage. Contractors professional forums can include rectification expenses coverage, contractors, pollution and contractors protective rectification expenses coverage is a first party coverage that allows an insurance or product designer to err to the carrier without waiting for a claim to be made by their client. The goal of such coverage is to resolve design issues faster, while minimizing conflicts between an insured and their client. For example, we had a situation earlier this year where a surveying error was made and the concrete foundations of the two buildings report too close together. In such a situation, we don't want our insurance to wait till third party claim is reported. It was clear a survey error was made and that this situation would eventually result in a third party claim. So this was handled under the rectification expenses coverage. In this scenario, thanks to our claims team, we were fortunate to get a variance from the city to allow the two buildings to be closer together than the building code originally allowed and the contractor was able to keep building without having to remove or replace one of the foundation's contractors pollution coverage covers pollution arising out a contracting activities at the job site, as well as coverage for transportation pollution liability, and coverage for a pollution incident arising from the treatment storage, recycling or disposal of waste at non owned facilities. Lastly, contractors protective coverage is an optional first party coverage that indemnifies The named insured excess of the design professionals professional liability insurance. For costs the contractor incurs as a result of negligent acts, errors and omissions of design professionals with which the insured contractor holds a written contract. For example, let's say our insured contractor goes over budget due to their sub consultants design where the contractor would bring suit against the design from the hired and the design firm would put their professional liability carrier on notice. If it is determined that the contractor is legally entitled to recover an amount larger than the limit of the design professionals insurance and the contractors protective coverage would indemnify the contractor for the amount above the design professionals limit of liability. The coverage included in a contractor's professional policy can vary by Carrier, but those are some of the cons. The coverages that are typically offered in our contractor 7072 Policy Forum. Paul Lucas 09:21:00 Steve, if I can bring you in as well, I'd just love to get some perspective in terms of you know as underwriters, what you're looking for and why, you know as underwriters, 09:21:09 We'd like to see submissions that include an application resumes a key principles or designers, or project list showing their five largest current projects and last runs, we often see submissions that mention a contract or project is driving the need for the professional liability insurance. If a contract is driving the need for the insurance, we'd like to review a copy of the contract and the scope of services so that we can better understand the project. What the contractor is doing on the project, who the client is and the revenue they will earn on the project. If they're just bidding the job in the contract is not yet available, then we'd like to see the RFP or the proposal possible. Now in order to calculate the contractors professional premium, we start with the overall gross revenue and then break down that revenue into how much is from construction only projects. How much is from design build projects and how much is from construction management to taking into consider both cm agency as well as CM at risk. We also tried to determine whether the professional services are performed by in house professionals or by professional consultants, if the professional services are performed by professional sub consultants, we would prefer to see that they hire sub consultants that carry their own professional liability insurance. Once we understand the revenue, we take into consideration the type of contractor when we and we look at the type of projects they work on, as well as their track record. Now, some of the things that we take into consideration will be the location of the contractor, their risk management practices, and the types of contracts they use in contracting for their work. As part of our underwriting. We also review the contractors website if they have one. We're looking to grow our contractors professional program. If you have any contractors that need professional liability, please think Tokio Marine HCC and send us your submissions to our email address at submissions at tmhcc.com. Or reach out to me directly. Paul Lucas 09:22:59 Thank you, Steve. And I think you've all shed light on a really complex topic. So many thanks to you. My huge thanks, of course to Tokio Marine, HCC cyber and professional lions group for putting together this panel today. And my thanks to each of you individual panelists as well. So one more time, it's Jim Bechter, 09:23:17 Thank you very much Paul, appreciate it and we appreciate the audience considering Tokio Marine HCC. Paul Lucas 09:23:23 Thank you, Jim. To Steve Hansen. 09:23:26 Thank you, Paul. It was a pleasure being here. Paul Lucas 09:23:28 Thank you to Trevor Saccente. Thanks, Paul. Thank you for the time. Paul Lucas 09:23:32 And finally to Lizzie Leavitt. Thank you for having us. Paul Lucas 09:23:37 All right. Thanks again to all of you and of course to you for watching. Remember, we'll see you next time right here on Insurance Business TV. New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Boston Police reported they have arrested a cyber insurance attorney in connection with a series of sexual assaults and kidnappings in the Boston area about 15 years ago. At a press conference on Tuesday, law enforcement officials said they identified Matthew J. Nilo, 35, as a suspect in three rapes, two kidnappings, one attempted rape and an indecent assault between 2007 and 2008 in Bostons Charlestown neighborhood. Nilo, a former resident of Boston, was placed into custody at his home in Weehawken, New Jersey. We took him into custody without incident, and he will be brought back to Boston to face justice in the coming days, said Joseph Bonavolonta, head of the FBIs Boston field office. This is without a doubt a major break in this investigation that has haunted the survivors of these sexual assaults, the residents of Charlestown, and the Boston Police Department for years, Bonavolonta told reporters. We believe we have removed a dangerous threat from our community. The FBI said the arrest is the result of the FBIs use of investigative genetic genealogy, a method that generates new leads in unsolved sex assaults, homicides, and other violent crimes. Using this technique, officials were able to obtain positive confirmation of Nilos identity last month. Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox said the cases in which Nilo is suspected are all connected by DNA evidence. Nilos LinkedIn page identifies him as claims counsel in New York for Cowbell, a San Francisco-based cyber insurance firm where he started work in January 2023. A Cowbell spokesperson told Insurance Journal that Nilo was hired in January after passing a background check. The firm said his employment at Cowbell has been suspended pending further investigation. Prior to Cowbell, he worked at Atheria Law in New York from 2019 to 2022 and Clyde & Co. law firm in San Francisco from 2014 to 2019, according to his LinkedIn profile. Insurance Journal has reached out to these firms to confirm Nilos employment but has not yet heard back. According to police, Nilo is originally from the Boston area, but has also lived in Wisconsin, California and New York. Officials asked any others who believe they may have been a victim of a sexual assault associated with this case or have any information that could be helpful to the investigation to contact either the Boston Police Department or the FBI. The FBI used Investigative genetic genealogy to identify Nilo. Investigative genetic genealogy, also known as forensic genetic genealogy, uses genetic and genealogical methods to generate leads for law enforcement. DNA profiles from a crime scene are used to identify close genetic DNA profiles or matches. Those are then compared to the known genealogy of close familial matches, which limits the number of possible close relatives of the perpetrator or victim. The method helps investigators provide new leads in cold criminal cases, according to the International Society of Genetic Genealogy. Topics Cyber New York New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! A lawsuit brought by a former altar boy who said he was raped as a child in the 1960s by a now-deceased Roman Catholic bishop in Massachusetts has been settled, the sides announced Friday. The plaintiff identified in court papers as John Doe alleged in the suit filed in February 2021 that not only was he abused by former Diocese of Springfield Bishop Christopher Weldon as well as two other clergy, but also that the church engaged in a years-long coverup to protect the bishops reputation and legacy. The suit also said that even after abuse allegations against Weldon were found to be credible, diocesan officials as late as 2019 denied them. The dioceses current bishop in a statement announcing the settlement apologized. Mr. Does allegations were determined to be credible, therefore, any public statement made on behalf of the Diocese in May or June of 2019 that is inconsistent with that is withdrawn, Bishop William Byrne said. We apologize to Mr. Doe for any harm those statements caused. We regret that interaction with the Diocese and civil litigation, often the last stop in trying to resolve these cases, can leave survivors feeling revictimized. Terms of the settlement were not disclosed. The alleged abuse occurred when the plaintiff was an altar boy at St. Anne Parish in Chicopee, Massachusetts when he was from 9 to 11 years old. Weldon served as bishop from 1950 until 1977 and died in 1982. Before the lawsuit was even filed, a retired Superior Court judge hired by the diocese found that claims of abuse regarding Weldon were unequivocally credible, and that there was a reluctance to fervently pursue an evaluation of allegations against (Weldon) due to his prominence and revered legacy in the religious community. The fact that Mr. Doe was forced to pursue litigation in the face of the report prepared by retired Judge Peter A. Velis, confirms the Churchs continuing failure, despite protestations to the contrary, to accept responsibility for the atrocities committed, Nancy Frankel Pelletier, a lawyer for the plaintiff, said in a statement. Bishop Byrne commended the plaintiff for coming forward and said the church has learned how to better respond to abuse allegations. Concealing or dissuading anyone from reporting abuse will not be tolerated, he said. It is Mr. Does hope that Bishop Byrnes statement will be heeded, and that no other survivor will be revictimized for speaking their truth, Pelletier said. The diocese fought to have the suit dismissed based on charitable immunity and the doctrine of church autonomy, derived from the First Amendment, even taking their case to the states highest court. The Supreme Judicial Court, however, last July ruled in the plaintiffs favor. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits Church New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! Maine Gov. Janet Mills is pumping the brakes on a paid family and medical leave proposal promoted by her fellow Democrats, seeking compromises to reduce the burden on businesses in an effort to win broader support. Deputy Chief of Staff Elise Baldacci said the governor recommended changes to balance the disparate needs of Maine families and businesses as paid leave advocates rallied at the State House and a public hearing was held Thursday. Maine would join a growing number of states in adopting a paid family leave plan if the legislature approves the proposal, which allows up to 12 weeks a year of paid leave for qualifying conditions, such as the birth or adoption of a child, a workers serious illness, or care for a sick relative. Minnesota became the 12th state to require such benefits on Thursday. The bill being considered in Maine would fund the leaves through a payroll tax split between workers and employers and capped at 1% of wages. The exact contribution rate, including the split, and the wage replacement rate will be negotiated by a legislative committee. Companies with fewer than 15 employees would be exempt. In her testimony, Baldacci suggested tighter eligibility standards for workers and less generous pay for those who qualify. The governor supports the concept of a paid family and medical leave policy, but she opposes some specific provisions that are problematic, Baldacci said. The bills Democratic sponsors, Sen. Mattie Daughtry of Brunswick, and Rep. Kristen Cloutier of Lewiston, served as co-chairs of a commission tasked by the Legislature to study the issue. Daughtry began working on paid family and medical leave more than 10 years ago after caring for a family member at the end of their battle with a terminal illness. After years of working on this, talking about this, and fighting for this, I can tell you: We know Maine needs paid family and medical leave, she said. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Maine New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown has filed two lawsuits seeking to hold multiple chemical manufacturers accountable for contamination of the states natural resources and harm to public health from their so-called forever chemicals that have been used in many consumer and industrial products including firefighting foam for decades. The lawsuits allege that through their manufacture and sale of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), or forever chemicals, these corporations, including 3M, DuPont, and others, caused PFAS contamination of the states environment including drinking water supplies through multiple pathways and put Maryland residents health at risk. Both lawsuits allege that defendants knew the dangers associated with their PFAS products many decades ago. Yet despite that knowledge, they failed to alert the state or the public. Rather, they continued to pursue profits through the manufacturing, marketing, and sales of their PFAS products in Maryland, according to the complaints. The complaints allege that the manufacturers knew specifically that their PFAS were reaching drinking water supplies and accumulating in peoples bodies as they were exposed to the chemicals over time. According to the suits, because of the manufacturers profit-driven effort to conceal these risks from federal and state regulators and the public more broadly, the public health and environmental consequences have only recently come to light. The companies were eventually compelled to disclose what they have long known about the dangers of their PFAS products through lawsuits like the ones Maryland has now filed, the complaint continues. The lawsuits, filed in Circuit Court for Baltimore City, allege a number of claims, including defective design, failure to warn, public nuisance, trespass, and negligence. The two complaints seek to recover damages and costs related to the investigation, cleanup, restoration, and treatment of its natural resources from PFAS contamination. The Maryland action follows the filing of similar lawsuits last week by Rhode Islands attorney general. Marylands first lawsuit addresses contamination caused by PFAS present in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), more commonly referred to as firefighting foam, which has been used for decades by the U.S. military, airports, industrial facilities, and local fire departments. The second lawsuit addresses contamination caused by PFAS from non-AFFF sources, including but not limited to consumer products, and which were introduced into Marylands environment through industrial facilities, the use and disposal of these products, landfills receiving PFAS-containing waste, and wastewater treatment facilities containing PFAS-contaminated waste streams. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified more than 12,000 PFAS compounds and has concluded that exposure to PFAS may lead to significant negative health effects. PFAS compounds have been used since the 1940s in industrial settings and in the production of household and commercial products that are heat resistant, stain resistant, and water and oil repellent. PFAS are commonly referred to as forever chemicals because they do not readily biodegrade or chemically degrade and remain in the environment for hundreds or even thousands of years. Source: Maryland Attorney General Topics Lawsuits Maryland Manufacturing Chemicals The North American managing general underwriter CannGen Insurance Services (CannGen) has launched a European operation amid expectations that the continents legal cannabis market is set for substantial growth. CannGen Insurance Europe SRL (CGEU) now operates as a property/casualty MGU, providing a comprehensive coverage solution for all-size businesses involved from seed-to-sale in the emerging cannabis, cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp markets. CGEU is in the process of building out its network of insurance agents and brokers in all legalized countries. The legal cannabis market will expand substantially in Europe in the coming years and will demand increasingly sophisticated requirements for insurance and risk management, according to CannGens founder and CEO Jeff Ward. CGEU will be led by Vassil Nikolov, director senior VP, in London, and Chris Van Grieken, director of Underwriting, in Brussels. CannGen Insurance Europe BV/SRL has been established as a regulated entity in Belgium. The company began underwriting in March with capacity provided by a global A+ rated European re/insurer partners. The London office will be the hub for CannGens European operations, while Brussels will act as the primary underwriting office. This structure will enable the company to establish relationships with clients and partners across the continent at a time of significant growth in the legal cannabis market. The program is currently deploying limits of up to 5 million (US$5.4 million) per occurrence for property, crop and business interruption, and limits of between 1 million and 2 million (US$1.1 million and US$2.1 million) for general liability and products liability. Potential clients include both privately owned and not-for-profit organizations, together with subsidiaries of some of the larger Canadian-based cultivators underwriten by CannGen Canada. CannGens expansion into Europe comes at a time when the cannabis industry is experiencing significant growth and regulatory changes across the continent. Several European countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy, have legalized medical cannabis, while others, such as Luxembourg and Switzerland, have made strides toward legalizing recreational use. According to market research reports, the European legal cannabis market is experiencing significant growth and is projected to reach a value of 3.2 billion ($3.4 billion) by 2025. Source: CannGen Insurance Services Topics USA Europe Insurance Wholesale Cannabis A giant oil tanker that was detained in China failed its safety inspection on more than 20 counts, spotlighting the dangers posed by a rapidly expanding fleet of aging vessels sailing the worlds oceans. The ship, currently called the Titan after being renamed seven times, is managed by a company whose address is a postbox in the Seychelles. While the vessels owners are hard to trace, its also not clear what insurance the Titan has in place. Insufficient documentation, safety lapses and murky backgrounds are all too typical of so-called dark-fleet tankers that have proliferated since Russias invasion of Ukraine. Sanctions from the Group of Seven nations on Russian oil, as well as existing ones on Iranian and Venezuelan cargoes, have created a booming trade for these old vessels operating outside of western oversight. Detentions of tankers have been rising over the past year amid increasing safety concerns, with more vessels held at Asian ports in April than any other month since at least January 2020. A port in China has stepped up safety checks in recent weeks, marking a potential shift in attitude toward the aging vessels that have helped deliver the country a slew of Russian, Iranian and Venezuelan oil. Indeed, the Titan which was built 20 years ago was stopped in the northeastern port of Qingdao not because it had been carrying about 2 million barrels of oil from Iran, but for the possible danger it presented. China and other maritime states had a glimpse of those risks earlier this month. About 10 days after departing the nations shores, another dark-fleet vessel, the Pablo, blew up off the coast of Malaysia. Though the cause of the explosion is unclear, it is thought that vapors from the remains of the oil cargo may have played a part. Among Titans 23 deficiencies were oil accumulation in its engine room and fire safety issues with its inert gas system the very equipment that helps prevent vapors exploding. After being detained on April 29, the ship was released on May 2 and was last seen sailing close to Taiwan. Since 2019, Titan has hauled a series of Iranian crude oil shipments, according to data intelligence company Kpler. The vessel carried about 16 million barrels of Iranian oil in 2022, according to data from United Against Nuclear Iran, which tracks the nations crude exports. An Oil Tanker Ablaze in South China Sea Is Warning of Global Problem Seapalm Shipping Ltd. is listed on multiple maritime databases as its manager, with no other current owners and only the Seychelles postbox and a generic email address for contact details. A message to the email address didnt immediately receive a reply. The Titan was last known to fly under the flag of Cameroon, the only state listed as high risk by Paris MoU, an organization that helps ensure safe shipping. Of the 211 vessels of various types that Clarkson Research Services sees using the countrys flag, only seven are less than 10 years old. The youngest large oil tanker is 19 years old. Unlike the regular merchant fleet, dark tankers often lack industry-standard insurance. Titan isnt registered with any members of the International Group of P&I Clubs, which provide such cover. With assistance from Alaric Nightingale. Photograph: The impounded Iranian crude oil tanker, Grace 1, is silhouetted as it sits anchored off the coast of Gibraltar on Saturday, July 20, 2019. Photo credit: Marcelo del Pozo/Bloomberg Related: Copyright 2023 Bloomberg. ST. PAUL, Minnesota (AP) Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Walz is scheduled to sign a bill Tuesday that legalizes recreational marijuana for people over the age of 21, making Minnesota the 23rd state to legalize the substance for adults. Former Gov. Jesse Ventura, who supported legalization when he served from 1999- 2003, is expected to attend the signing ceremony. Walz said in November that Ventura would be invited because Ventura was one of the first governors in the country to support legalization. Under the new measure, it would become legal by Aug. 1 to possess, use and grow marijuana at home. Possession of cannabis flower would be limited to 2 pounds (0. 9 kilos) at home and 2 ounces (56 grams) in public. Stricter caps would be placed on cannabis products with concentrated THC. Retail sales at dispensaries would probably be at least a year away. Once licensed, stores would charge sales tax plus a 10% cannabis tax. Minnesotans who have been convicted of misdemeanor or petty misdemeanor possession would also get their records automatically expunged. However, the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension has estimated it will take until August of next year to process all cases. Others with more serious convictions, such as those with possession offenses that exceeded even the new limits, may also be able to apply for reduced sentences. Democrats took full control of state government when the Legislature convened for its 2023 session, marking the first time in eight years they have held the trifecta of the Senate, House and governors office. With that power, they passed a long list of legislative priorities including legalization that the previous Senate Republican majority had blocked. Walz has long been a supporter of legalizing recreational marijuana for adults. In 2021, the Democratic-controlled House passed a legalization bill with several Republicans voting yes, but the GOP-controlled Senate never gave it a vote. Last year, the Legislature passed a bill legalizing THC in edible or drinkable form if its derived from hemp. Many lawmakers apparently didnt realize what they were doing as it sailed through under the radar. Low-strength gummies and beverages have been on sale since July. Former Gov. Ventura said in November that Walz had called him up the day after his reelection and said he expected a new legalization bill to pass. Ventura, an independent who doesnt usually make endorsements, backed Walz over Republican Scott Jensen, and said legalization was one of the many reasons why. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Cannabis Minnesota Valley Insurance Agency Alliance Promotes, Hires Team Members Valley Insurance Agency Alliance recently promoted Amy Russell to lead pod marketer and hired Michael Welch as commercial marketer. Russell, who previously served as marketing specialist and account manager, has over 30 years of experience in the insurance and marketing industries. She pioneered VIAAs Pod marketing program, a carrier rating platform that assists agents with obtaining the best quotes for commercial clients. Welch has more than 35 years of insurance experience. Before joining VIAA, he worked in commercial marketing at various insurance agencies in the Northeast. VIAA is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri. New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! Top artificial intelligence (AI) executives including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman on Tuesday joined experts and professors in raising the risk of extinction from AI, which they urged policymakers to equate at par with risks posed by pandemics and nuclear war. Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, more than 350 signatories wrote in a letter published by the nonprofit Center for AI Safety (CAIS). As well as Altman, they included the CEOs of AI firms DeepMind and Anthropic, and executives from Microsoft and Google. Also among them were Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio two of the three so-called godfathers of AI who received the 2018 Turing Award for their work on deep learning and professors from institutions ranging from Harvard to Chinas Tsinghua University. A statement from CAIS singled out Meta, where the third godfather of AI, Yann LeCun, works, for not signing the letter. We asked many Meta employees to sign, said CAIS director Dan Hendrycks. Meta did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The letter coincided with the U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting in Sweden where politicians are expected to talk about regulating AI. Elon Musk and a group of AI experts and industry executives were the first ones to cite potential risks to society in April. Weve extended an invitation (to Musk), and hopefully hell sign it this week, Hendrycks said. Recent developments in AI have created tools supporters say can be used in applications from medical diagnostics to writing legal briefs, but this has sparked fears the technology could lead to privacy violations, power misinformation campaigns, and lead to issues with smart machines thinking for themselves. The warning comes two months after the nonprofit Future of Life Institute (FLI) issued a similar open letter, signed by Musk and hundreds more, demanding an urgent pause in advanced AI research, citing risks to humanity. Our letter mainstreamed pausing, this mainstreams exctinction, said FLI president Max Tegmark, who also signed the more recent letter. Now a constructive open conversation can finally start. AI pioneer Hinton earlier told Reuters that AI could pose a more urgent threat to humanity than climate change. Last week OpenAI CEO Sam Altman referred to EU AI the first efforts to create a regulation for AI as over-regulation and threatened to leave Europe. He reversed his stance within days after criticism from politicians. Altman has become the face of AI after his ChatGPT chatbot stormed the world. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet Altman on Thursday, and EU industry chief Thierry Breton will meet him in San Francisco next month. Topics InsurTech Data Driven Artifical Intelligence New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! The US Supreme Court turned away an appeal from victims of child pornography who claimed Reddit Inc. knowingly facilitates and benefits from images of child sexual abuse. The justices without comment left in place a ruling that affirmed Reddit cant be held liable for violating sex trafficking laws when people use its platform to post pictures of minors being abused. Its the latest in a string of victories for the countrys biggest social media platforms, which enjoy immunity from most lawsuits over online speech under a liability shield called Section 230. The Supreme Court earlier this month refused to limit the broad liability shield for social media companies, including Twitter Inc., Facebook Inc. and Alphabet Inc.s Google. Related: The Supreme Court Handed Google and Twitter a New Line of Defense The 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals decision in Reddits favor marked the first time a federal appellate court weighed in on a 2018 amendment to Section 230, which was written to allow lawsuits against social media platforms over sex trafficking claims. The victims in the lawsuit argued the 2018 sex trafficking amendment, Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act, or FOSTA, enabled them to sue Reddit for providing a platform for images of their abuse. They said Reddit has engineered a social media platform where child pornography proliferates. But the 9th Circuit said Reddit was still protected by Section 230 because the sex trafficking victims failed to prove the company actually knew about the abuse on its platform. The Supreme Court held off on deciding whether to take the Reddit case while it resolved a pair of unrelated social media cases earlier in May. In those cases, the court left Section 230 intact, insulating Google and Twitter from liability for terrorist content on their platforms. It was a signal that the court is wary of weighing in on the complicated Section 230 statute, which laid the foundation for the modern internet. Social media companies have aggressively defended Section 230 as a necessary protection against a likely avalanche of multimillion-dollar lawsuits over vile and harmful online speech. But lawmakers in recent years have questioned whether Section 230 is overly broad and protects the internet platforms from accountability for the harms they enable. The case is Jane Does No. 1-6 v. Reddit, 22-695. Photo: People wait in line to listen to oral arguments at the U.S. Supreme Court on February 21, 2023 in Washington, DC. Oral arguments are taking place today in Gonzalez v. Google, a landmark case about whether technology companies should be liable for harmful content their algorithms promote. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images) Copyright 2023 Bloomberg. New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! SFR Services, a Florida restoration firm made famous by its volume of claims litigation and its charges that United Property & Casualty Insurance Co. had instructed desk adjusters to alter their estimates, now finds itself in some legal trouble of its own. A circuit judge in Lee County recently found that SFR had intentionally concealed and misrepresented material facts during the appraisal process in a Fort Myers-area condominium claim dispute with Tower Hill Prime Insurance Co. after Hurricane Irma in 2017. The firm stuck with an estimate of $233,000 and failed to disclose a contract with a roofing company, which charged less than half of that for the actual work, Judge Michael McHugh wrote in his May 9 order. SFR Services was aware that the cost of the scope of roof work was $99,000, at least as of March 20, 2020, the judge noted. Despite knowing this information, SFR Services continued to present an estimate generated by Elite Claims and continued to represent that the value of the roof replacements for the clubhouse and both gatehouses was more than $230,000, while simultaneously indicating that its overhead and profit fell in line with the industry standard of 20%. Members of an appraisal panel, assigned to resolve differences between two other estimates, said they were unaware of the lower price from Castillo Roofing when they awarded the higher amount on the claim. The judge found that SFR, as an assignee of the condominium association, had violated the concealment and misrepresentation provision of the insurance policy and was tainted by fraud. McHugh ruled in favor of Tower Hill and vacated the higher appraisal award, voided part of the coverage and agreed to Tower Hills request for a new umpire on the appraisal. SFR, based in Stuart, Florida, has already asked Floridas 6th District Court of Appeals to review the decision. Unfortunately we are appealing this egregious ruling, SFRs principal, Ricky McGraw, said in an email to Insurance Journal. We have moved to disqualify the judge presiding over the case. Florida has made it hard for contractors that help their clients. SFRs attorney, Melissa Giasi, asked the judge to disqualify himself, arguing that he was prejudiced by his concerns about McGraws allegedly fraudulent activity; the judge did not hold a jury trial; and he adopted a final order drafted by Tower Hill that contained numerous errors. When that motion failed, Giasi asked the appeals court to step in and prohibit McHughs order. The appeals judges declined. In its answer to Tower Hills 2020 motion in Lee County, which asked the court to vacate the high-end appraisal award, the SFR attorney also argued that Tower Hill had unclean hands, had acted in bad faith and had improperly adjusted the claim amount. Judge McHugh did not see it that way. He also pointed out that the insured, Rookery Pointe Homeowners Association, did not participate in the alleged fraud. In fact, the condo association, through its former president, Debbie Kiel, testified they were so concerned with the estimate provided by SFR Services, they got their own estimates which were in line with Castillo Roofings estimate, the judge wrote. McGraw and SFR Services for years have been thorns in the sides of several insurance carriers in Florida. Court records show that the firm has filed hundreds of lawsuits against insurers over AOB claims in recent years. Most famously, in early 2022 SFR charged in a federal lawsuit that United Property & Casualty had conspired with adjuster firms to systematically deny and underpay thousands of roof claims after Hurricane Irma. The lawsuit, charging anti-racketeering law violations, purported to show copies of text messages by a desk adjuster, sent at the behest of UPC, to field adjusters directing them to avoid estimating roof damages altogether because the insurer planned to issue blanket denials. A federal judge dismissed the suit in October, noting that a federal statute leaves it up to states to regulate the business of insurance, so the federal racketeering law did not apply. Florida regulators this year deemed UPC insolvent and have placed the company into liquidation, likely making claims suits against the insurer a long shot. Meanwhile, SFR has made similar allegations in state court against individuals associated with the insurer. In a suit filed last week in Pinellas County, SFR charges that a number of adjusters, UPC officials and UPC board members engaged in a scheme to underpay claims from Irma, no matter how badly peoples roofs were damaged. The complaint cites deposition testimony from a field adjuster who said that UPC officials demanded that he remove portions of his damage estimates. In the Lee County case, the judge said SFR was the party that engaged in misrepresentation, a judgment that has left some insurance defense attorneys with a strong sense of schadenfreude. They said that the alleged tactics by SFR have not been uncommon in the years of claims litigation against insurers, and have helped drive exorbitant defense costs. The Rookery Pointe case began in 2019, when the condo association signed an AOB agreement with SFR. The restoration contractor initially provided an estimate of $355,759 for replacement of three common-area roofs on the gatehouses and the clubhouse, plus a fourth building that was not clearly identified. SFR contracted with Elite Claims Consulting as its public adjuster on the condos, and in 2020 Elite submitted its own estimate of $314,828, the court explained. The next day, SFR contracted with Castillo Roofing to replace the three roofs for $99,000. McGraw confirmed that in his own testimony during the court proceedings, the judges order said. McGraw also signed a sworn proof-of-loss statement, based on the Elite Claims estimate of $314,828. SFR also directed Castillo Roofing to submit a permit application with a declared value of $233,525, something the judge said was intentionally misleading. In response to Elites estimate, Tower Hill in March 2023 requested that the parties submit their differences to an appraisal panel. The insurer also requested information on any bids by roof contractors on the Rookery Pointe structures. Without question, the Castillo Roofing bid submitted to SFR Services would have been responsive to this request, Judge McHugh wrote. Yet, SFR Services did not approve it, nor did it provide the documentation to Rookery Pointe or Elite Claims to produce to Tower Hill. SFR argued in court that it was not obligated to provide the Castillo bid, because it was party to an AOB agreement: It had been assigned the rights and benefits of the policies, but not the duties or obligations. The judge noted that in years past, court rulings have found that assignees did not have to uphold certain duties of the insured. But that case law was superseded by a 2019 AOB reform law passed by the Florida Legislature. That statute also requires assignees to provide up-to-date and revised estimates of repair work, the judge said. SFR also failed to provide the Castillo price during the appraisal process, the judge wrote, citing a 1999 Florida appeals court opinion that held that there must be a meaningful exchange of information for an appeals panel to accurately arrive at a fair number. But SFRs chosen appraiser for the appraisal panel had testified that he was unaware of the Castillo price and based his conclusions on the higher estimates. Tower Hills chosen appraiser said the same. McHugh acknowledged that Tower Hill on its own could have solicited more estimates. Without the Castillo Roofing invoices and information, there was never a meaningful exchange of information necessary for a proper appraisal, the judge noted. McHugh acknowledged that Tower Hill, on its own, could have solicited more estimates on the work. A Tower Hill representative testified in the trial that the insurer would have paid the Castillo $99,000 price, plus standard overhead and profit, if the company had known about it thus avoiding months of litigation. The attorney for Tower Hill in the case, Michael Monteverde, could not be reached for comment for this article. Topics Florida Legislation Fraud Contractors New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! Eight months ago, chef Michael Cellura had a restaurant job and had just moved into a fancy new camper home on Fort Myers Beach. Now, after Hurricane Ian swept all that away, he lives in his older Infiniti sedan with a 15-year-old long-haired chihuahua named Ginger. Like hundreds of others, Cellura was left homeless after the Category 5 hurricane blasted the barrier island last September with ferocious winds and storm surge as high as 15 feet (4 meters). Like many, hes struggled to navigate insurance payouts, understand federal and state assistance bureaucracy and simply find a place to shower. Theres a lot of us like me that are displaced. Nowhere to go, Cellura, 58, said during a recent interview next to his car, sitting in a commercial parking lot along with other storm survivors housed in recreational vehicles, a converted school bus, even a shipping container. Theres a lot of homeless out here, a lot of people living in tents, a lot of people struggling. Recovery is far from complete in hard-hit Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel and Pine Island, with this years Atlantic hurricane season officially beginning June 1. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is forecasting a roughly average tropical storm season forecast of 12 to 17 named storms, five to nine becoming hurricanes and one to four powering into major hurricanes with winds greater than 110 mph (177 kph). Another weather pattern that can suppress Atlantic storms is the El Nino warming expected this year in the Pacific Ocean, experts say. Yet the increasingly warmer water in the Atlantic basin fueled by climate change could offset the El Nino effect, scientists say. In southwest Florida, piles of debris are everywhere. Demolition and construction work is ongoing across the region. Trucks filled with sand rumble to renourish the eroded beaches. Blank concrete slabs reveal where buildings, many of them once charming, decades-old structures that gave the towns their relaxed beach vibe, were washed away or torn down. Some people, like Fort Myers Beach resident Jacquelyn Velazquez, are living in campers or tents on their property while they await sluggish insurance checks or building permits to restore their lives. Its, you know, its in the snap of the finger. Your life is never going to be the same, she said next to her camper, provided under a state program. Its not the things that you lose. Its just trying to get back to some normalcy. Ian claimed more than 156 lives in the U.S., the vast majority in Florida, according to a comprehensive NOAA report on the hurricane. In hard-hit Lee County location of Fort Myers Beach and the other seaside towns 36 people died from drowning in storm surge and more than 52,000 structures suffered damage, including more than 19,000 destroyed or severely damaged, a NOAA report found. Even with state and federal help, the scale of the disaster has overwhelmed these small towns that were not prepared to deal with so many problems at once, said Chris Holley, former interim Fort Myers Beach town manager. Probably the biggest challenge is the craziness of the debris removal process. Well be at it for another six months, Holley said. Permitting is a huge, huge problem for a small town. The staff just couldnt handle it. Then theres battles with insurance companies and navigating how to obtain state and federal aid, which is running into the billions of dollars. Robert Burton and his partner Cindy Lewis, both 71 and from Ohio, whose mobile home was totaled by storm surge, spent months living with friends and family until finally a small apartment was provided through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. They can stay there until March 2024 while they look for a new home. Their mobile home park next to the causeway to Sanibel is a ghost town, filled with flooded-out homes soon to be demolished, many of them with ruined furniture inside, clothes still in closets, art still on the walls. Most homes had at least three feet of water inside. No one has a home. That park will not be reopened as a residential community, Lewis said. So everybody lost. The state Office of Insurance Regulation estimated the total insured loss from Ian in Florida was almost $14 billion, with more than 143,000 claims still open without payment or claims paid but not fully settled as of March 9. With so many people in limbo, places like the heavily damaged Beach Baptist Church in Fort Myers Beach provide a lifeline, with a food pantry, a hot lunch stand, showers and even laundry facilities for anyone to use. Pastor Shawn Critser said about 1,200 families per month are being served at the church through donated goods. Were not emergency feeding now. Were in disaster recovery mode, Critser said. We want to see this continue. We want to have a constant presence. In nearby Sanibel, the lingering damage is not quite as widespread although many businesses remain shuttered as they are repaired and storm debris is everywhere. Seven local retail stores have moved into a shopping center in mainland Fort Myers, hoping to continue to operate while awaiting insurance payouts, construction permits, or both before returning to the island. They call themselves the Sanibel Seven, said Rebecca Binkowski, owner of MacIntosh Books and Paper that has been a Sanibel fixture since 1960. She said her store had no flood insurance and lost about $100,000 worth of books and furnishings in the storm. The fact of the matter is, we can get our businesses back up and running but without hotels to put people in, without our community moving back, its going to be hard to do business, she said. You hope this is still a strong community. Yet, the sense among many survivors is one of hope for the future, even if it looks very different. Cellura, the chef living in his car, has a new job at another location of the Nauti Parrot restaurant on the mainland. Insurance only paid off the outstanding loan amount on his destroyed camper and he didnt qualify for FEMA aid, leaving him with virtually nothing to start over and apartment rents rising fast. But, after 22 years on the island, hes not giving up. I believe that things will work out. Im strong. Im a survivor, he said. Every day I wake up, its another day to just continue on and try to make things better. Photo: Velazquez at her Fort Myers Beach home, where storm surge reached almost to the ceiling. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell) Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Florida Numbers New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! The man who once led HealthSouth, a huge provider of outpatient rehab services, including therapy for injured workers, has been ordered to turn over records related to a bank account that lawyers say hes using to hide millions. In a seven-page order against Richard Scrushy, the Birmingham-based companys former chief executive officer, John England Jr., acting as special master in the case, also issued an injunction against any money being transferred out of the account in question, AL.com reported. The ruling Tuesday came after lawyers representing the plaintiffs in a 2009 civil verdict contended that Scrushy has been hiding money that could be used to pay some of the more than $2.87 billion in damages he still owes as result of the HealthSouth scandal. The government contends Scrushy and other executives inflated earnings by $2.7 billion from 1996 through March 2003 to make it appear HealthSouth was meeting expectations of Wall Street analysts. Lawyers alleged Scrushy has written checks totaling $7.3 million on an account in the name of convicted felon Eddie Briskett, who is currently serving time in the Alabama Department of Corrections for various convictions, including property theft, burglary and assault. England contends Scrushy, or someone connected to him, has control of the account and has actively used it. Scrushy denies any wrongdoing and said he welcomes any disclosures, since they will find nothing, the news site reported. Its totally made-up, false information that never should have been put out, Scrushy said. In 2007, Scrushy was sentenced to nearly seven years in prison for bribery involving former Gov. Don Siegelman. While serving his sentence in a Texas prison, a civil court found him liable for the HealthSouth accounting fraud. After serving about five years of his sentence, Scrushy was released from prison. According to Englands order, Scrushy contends he is unemployed and has no assets other than Social Security. Lawyers for the plaintiffs say he is conducting business through other entities owned by friends and family. According to the ruling, Scrushy has exchanged thousands of text messages with a number associated with Briskett and written checks totaling $7.3 million on the account, including two checks to himself totaling $3 million. However, those checks were never deposited in any account previously disclosed by Scrushy, the order states. In addition, England references a 2020 letter to the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles by an associate of Scrushy, explaining that Briskett has an investment portfolio of about $7.1 million. The evidence presented suggests that Mr. Scrushy may have an interest in the account or in some or all of the proceeds of the account, the order reads. At minimum, it appears that Mr. Scrushy or someone acting in concert with him opened the account in Brisketts name and that Mr. Scrushy has control of the account. Scrushy told the news site that he has known Briskett for 20 years through his prison ministry and has exchanged text messages with Brisketts sister, mainly to set up telephone conversations. The checks, he said, were kind of a joke between the two of them. Hes one of the gentlemen that Ive helping, being a friend and minister, he said. Ive never signed on any bank account of his. Theres zero truth to any of that. Ive never been involved with Eddie Briskett on any account, period. Ive never taken a dime from Eddie Briskett. Scrushy said the court filings in the case are a continued harassment to him and his family. Ive never seen such abuse and waste in my life, he said. I told the judge yesterday to let those attorneys go and discover anything they want. There is nothing to it. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles! The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has asked a federal court to bar a North Carolina insurance agent and financial advisor from trading securities and to disgorge ill-gotten gains from a real estate scam, according to court papers filed Tuesday. Its the second time in the last 25 years that Marshall E. Melton, of Greensboro, has been sanctioned by the SEC. In 1997, Melton pleaded guilty and served one year of supervised probation. In 2003 he was ordered by the federal agency to avoid all association with the securities industry. The latest complaint, filed in U.S. District Court in Greensboro, charges that Melton, 65, ran a scheme from 2016 to 2021 that defrauded elderly investors out of as much as $1.5 million. He promised to purchase seven run-down properties in Laurinburg, in southeast North Carolina, renovate them, then pay the investors from rentals and sales of the properties, the SEC attorneys said in the filing. Meltons representations were false, the complaint reads. The man purchased the properties but did little to renovate them. He never paid the investors their promised returns, the SEC said. Instead, Melton misappropriated for his own use nearly two-thirds of the investors funds, the complaint notes. In 2021, to mollify two complaining investors, Melton transferred ownership of five of the sites to those investors. But he also fraudulently induced two other investors to relinquish their interests in those properties and promised to get something better, the agency said. The North Carolina Department of Insurance shows that Melton has been an insurance agent since 1988 and holds an active insurance producers license, due to expire at the end of June 2023. He is appointed with American General Life Insurance, EMC National Life and EquiTrust Life Insurance. Melton could not be reached Wednesday morning. A phone number for Integrated Consulting did not go through and another number was not answered. In recent years, Melton also was managing partner of Integrated Consulting and Management Inc., which handled the real estate investments, the court document shows. But regulators said it was never a legitimate operation, with Melton diverting much of the investors money to his personal account. In fact, a pattern emerged with Meltons receipt of each investors funds, namely, that (as) the balance of Integrated Consultings bank account had become nearly depleted, Melton received new investor funds into the account, and thereafter diverted much of those investor funds to his own use, the SEC complaint contends. The SEC is asking the court to enjoin Melton from participating in the sale or purchase of any securities related to real estate, except for his own use; to give up the fraudulently obtained proceeds; and to pay penalties and other relief the court deems appropriate. Its unclear if Melton will also face criminal prosecution. An SEC attorney declined to comment Tuesday. The action against the insurance agent comes four months after two insurance agents in Whiteville, North Carolina, pleaded guilty to running a multi-million Ponzi scheme. Topics Agencies North Carolina Colorados largest workers compensation carrier, Pinnacol Assurance, issued a general dividend of $15 million to 58,000 employers in the state. This marks the organizations eighth straight year of issuing dividends and a total of $385 million returned to Colorado employers. Pinnacol Assurance operates as a mutual insurer, which makes customers eligible for an annual dividend based on Pinnacols financial performance. Dividends are also made possible by timely claims reporting and investments in safety education, technology and equipment. Related: Topics Commercial Lines Business Insurance Colorado Officials in Tacoma, Washington, will pay $3.1 million to the family of a Black man who was fatally shot by police during a traffic stop in 2019. The City Council announced the settlement with the relatives of 24-year- old Bennie Branch in a news release. This familys loss has been felt deeply across our entire community specifically amongst Tacomas African American community, the statement said, adding that the settlement was not an admission of legal liability, but rather a way for both sides to avoid an expensive trial. Branch was in a car with other people on Sept. 8, 2019, when a patrol officer spotted the vehicle idling and pointed in the wrong direction. The officer approached the driver after recognizing the vehicle as one associated with previous gun-related crimes, police said. Branch left the car and got into his moms, which was nearby, police said. The officer notified dispatch about Branchs actions and told them Branch might be armed. When officer Ryan Bradley and his partner responded to the scene, they ordered Branch to get out of the car. Police said officers heard a woman shrieking in the car and thought it might have been a carjacking. Police said Bradleys partner tried to pull Branch out, but he tried to escape. Police said they shocked Branch twice with stun guns and he fell to the ground. Bradleys partner then hit Branch in the head and chest multiple times, police said. They said the officer then called out that Branch was going for a gun and moved away. Bradley fired at Branch 11 times, hitting him seven times. A county prosecutor said Bradley acted lawfully and that the BB gun Branch had on him resembled a handgun. The city said in its statement that it supports the Tacoma Police Departments ongoing efforts to build community trust through measures that include updating their use of force policy, requiring officers to activate body cameras whenever they engage with the public, and the development of a community service officer program. Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Washington Source: Stephane Foucaud May 31, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) The highlight is the performance of two new wells, each in a different country, during this period, noted an Auctus Advisors report. There is good news regarding two oil wells in which Pharos Energy Plc. (PHAR:LON;PHAR:LSE) owns a working interest, reported Auctus Advisors analyst Stephane Foucaud in a May 25 year-to-date report. As such, Auctus maintained its 0.55 per share target price on the England-based energy company, trading today at about 0.23 per share, wrote Foucaud. The difference between the two prices represents a significant return to investors of about 139%. Foucaud reported the recent developments with the two wells. More Oil Than Expected One of them, the VNV-2PST1 lateral well in Vietnam, is producing three times more oil than the pre-drilling estimate. Producing since late March, it is flowing at 3,000 barrels per day (3 Mbbl/d), which is 750 barrels per day (750 bbl/d) net to Pharos. "This could have a positive impact on 2023 production expectations," added Foucaud. "It is still early stage, but this could open up the possibility of lower further development costs." New Commercial Discovery The other well, the NBS-1X well in Egypt, in the North Beni Suef (NBS) concession, encountered multiple pay zones in the Abu Roash G formation, Foucaud relayed. Thus, it was declared a commercial discovery. The well's stabilized production test rate before fracking was 470 bbl/d gross. "The result of the well could add a few 100,000s of barrels of Proven and Probable reserves and opens a new area," wrote Foucaud. A second well is slated to be drilled at the NBS concession later this year. Year-To-Date Production Also, in Foucaud's year-to-date update, he provided financial highlights. Pharos' total working interest production for the period between January and April 2023 was 6,805 barrels of oil equivalent per day (6.805 Mboe/d). Of this total, 5,477 boe/d were from Vietnam, and 1.328 Mbbl/d were from Egypt. This production missed Auctus' forecast by about 400 boe/d, noted Foucaud. However, he added, "With the new Vietnam lateral starting production in late March and the Egyptian discovery well onstream in Q3/23, production over the last eight months of 2023 could be high." Other Notable Financials Receivables from Pharos' assets in Egypt increased to US$29M at the end of March from US$24M at year-end 2022 (YE22). "This would suggest that the business has generated underlying free cash flow of about US$5M net of share buyback over the first months of 2023," wrote Foucaud. As for net debt, at the end of April 2023, it was US$29M, relatively unchanged from YE22. Guidance Unchanged For Vietnam, Pharos has guided to full-year 2023 production of 4,700-5,700 barrels of oil equivalent per day (4.7-5.7 Mboe/d), and for Egypt, 3-4 Mbbl/d gross, for a total of 6.05-7.5 Mboe/d. The estimated capex is about US$23M. More Info: This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders 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. More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp Source: Streetwise Reports May 31, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Things seem to be looking up for Summa Silver Corp. Despite unfortunate IPO timing - a month before the COVID-19 pandemic began - the company is seeing increasingly positive results from its ongoing drilling projects. Summa Silver Corp. (SSVR:TSX.V; SSVRF:OTC) is a Canada-based junior mineral exploration company engaged in acquisition, exploration, and evaluation activities at two U.S. sites: the Hughes property in Nevada and the Mogollon property in New Mexico. The firm currently owns a 100% interest in the Hughes project, with the option to earn 100% interest in the Mogollon project. The Mogollon project is approximately 120 km from Silver City in southwestern New Mexico and covers a silver-gold bearing epithermal vein field. The Hughes Property is located in central Nevada and consists of approximately 57 patented mining claims and 103 unpatented mining claims that together cover an area of some 5,504 acres. The Catalyst: Ongoing Exploratory Drilling On May 9, the Golden Opportunities newsletter reported that the Summa Silver team is "very excited to launch its Spring drill program in early May where it will be testing multiple high potential drill targets at the Hughes Project in Nevada." The newsletter reports the project is "fully funded with about US$10.5 million in working capital to systematically drill seven holes over five targets. With permits approved, drill rigs scheduled, and high-potential targets within sight of the historic Tonopah district, there is an extremely rare discovery opportunity." The report explains that Summa Silver completed its drill program at the Mogollon Project in New Mexico at the end of February, with assays pending for eight holes. "In the meantime, multiple additional targets are being developed at the Mogollon Project as the company advances 3D geological modeling efforts." Why This Sector? Continuing Demand Growth Silver remains a minor money metal, with The Silver Institute reporting on February 8, "Silver is off to a good start in 2023. The year-to-date silver price average for 2023 (through to February 7) is more than 8% higher than the full-year price average for 2022. Silver is also expected to achieve a new high in industrial applications, the most important category in the demand complex." Summa Silver's holdings offer USA-based investors an attractive onshore hedge against bipolar capital markets with known and predictable jurisdictional oversight. Why This Company? New Promotion Partners in New Markets Alongside its ongoing drilling program, Summa Silver announced on May 2 that it "has engaged [Toronto, Ontario-based] Capital 10X to provide marketing and investor relations services" to assist with "expanding investor awareness of its business and actively communicating with the investment community." "In consideration for the C10X Services, the company will pay Capital 10X a monthly fee of US$2,500. The Company has engaged Capital 10X for a term of three months but has the right to terminate the engagement at any time upon giving 30 days' notice to Capital 10X." In addition, Summa Silver has "engaged Scandinavian Alliance to provide business development, brand awareness, and consulting services. Scandinavian Alliance will undertake a comprehensive European awareness campaign for the Company, including consultation, advice, heightening brand awareness, broadening the Company's reach within the Scandinavian audience, and similar activities designed to further the business and development interests identified by the company." "In consideration for the SA Services, the Company will pay Scandinavian Alliance a fee of US$88,500 and has granted Scandinavian Alliance 250,000 stock options with an exercise price of $0.67 vesting in equal tranches quarterly over a 12-month period." Why Now? Even More Drilling On April 20, Research Capital Corp. analyst Stuart McDougall rated Summa Silver a Speculative Buy, with a price target of CA$2.00. This was due in part to Summa's Mogollon underground silver-gold project yielding continually high grades. The May 2 announcement also explained that an exploration drill program at the Hughes project was now well underway. "A reverse-circulation drill rig has been mobilized to the site and is currently advancing the first hole of the program," the announcement stated. "A core rig is also on-site and will be drilling core tails on select holes." Five targets will be tested, with a minimum of seven holes planned, as well as additional drilling at the Ruby, Emerald, Diamond, Sapphire, and Topaz targets. These new target areas, previously unrecognized, represent significant discovery opportunities just outside the historic Tonopah mining district. Summa Silver CEO Galen McNamara explains, "The targets we will be drilling at the Hughes Project this season were developed from a systematic, multi-layered approach which included detailed interpretations of structural geology, geophysics, and geochemistry." "In our opinion, it's very rare that compelling undrilled targets can still exist within sight of a prolific historically producing mining district like Tonopah. The five targets we will be drilling at the Hughes Project this spring and summer represent opportunities for significant new discoveries that the team has been very much looking forward to testing for some time." [OWNERSHIP_CHART-10086] Ownership and Share Structure According to Reuters, 6.46% of Summa's shares are with management and insiders. CEO and Director Galen Stuart Mcnamara has 2.78%, with 2.53 million shares. Director Thomas O'Neill has 1.80%, with 1.64 million. CFO and Director Martin Bajic has 1.48%, with 1.35 million. Director Brian Goss has 0.27%, with 0.25 million, and Director Michael Konnert has 0.14%, with 0.13 million. 18.58% is with strategic investor 2176423 Ontario Ltd, with 16.97 million shares. 12.20% is with institutional investors. Sprott Asset Management is the largest institutional shareholder at 8.43%, with 7.70 million shares. ETF Managers Group LLC. has 2.79%, with 2.54 million. U.S. Global Investors Inc. has 0.88%, with 0.80 million, and Palos Management Inc. has 0.11%, with 0.10 million. The rest is in retail. Summa Silver Corp. has a market cap of CA$$51.7 million, according to Market Watch. The company has 90.71 million shares outstanding, with a free float of around 66 million, and trades in the 52-week range between CA$0.49 and CA$1.14. More Info: This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders 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. More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp Source: Michael Ballanger May 31, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Michael Ballanger of GGM Advisory Inc. replaces his regular missive with a report on Volt Lithium Corp., as he believes news this week confirmed its "watershed breakthrough" recovery of lithium from brines. Ballanger thinks the upside potential for this company is as good as anything he has encountered in decades. Company: Volt Lithium Corp. Symbol: VLT.V/ VLTLF:US OTC Qb Recent Price: CA$0.47 / US$.35 52-Week Range: CA$0.06 / US$0.007 to CA$0.55 / US$0.4097 Market Cap: ~CA$46m /~US$35m Head Office: Vancouver, B.C. CEO/President: Alex Wilie With the junior markets for resource issues mired in a seasonally-typical lethargy of sorts, it is always encouraging to own shares in a company where the overall market or economic conditions have little or no impact on the share price performance. Such has been the case with GGM Advisory top-pick Volt Lithium Corp. (VLT:TSV;VLTLF:US). Ahead 526% YTD (as of May 24), Volt has achieved all of the significant milestones laid out for investors back in August when Volt CEO/President Alex Wilie described the opportunity as apparent in the proposed merger between his company and Allied Copper Corp. (CPR:TSX.V; CPRRF:OTCQB). Every brand and type of lithium deal has gone berserk in the massive price advance from under US$5,000/t to over US$60,000/t since late 2020. Companies with pegmatite deposits in northern Quebec that are ten years from production without anything resembling a resource estimate are capitalized at over CA$1 billion, while Volt is already en route to a Preliminary Economic Assessment for its Rainbow Lake brine project but being capped at under CA$50 million. The staggering price movement in lithium carbonate price to the end of 2022 has now corrected appropriately to levels where sanity has started to prevail, but what is not up for debate is the insatiable demand for the mineral with no better evidence of that than two deals announced in the past week that involved one oil company (Exxon) and one auto manufacturer (Ford Motor). These companies are moving mountains to secure lithium supplies well into the future by actually buying deposits which is a sign of the desperation that prevails. The lithium-ion battery is critical to the EV industry, so the big automakers are reacting with major capital expenditures, and many are injections into companies that are extremely "early-stage," underscoring the panic that is in the air. The company made a significant press release on Wednesday, May 24, in which there were a number of important takeaways: The combination of the DLE technology and the "high grade" Rainbow Lake property is a "one-two punch " that could move Volt into the number one seed position in the North American Lithium play. The value-added component Volt brings to an existing Oil and Gas play, even in the simplest form of water treatment cost-sharing, will make it a must-have situation, particularly from an "ESG" standpoint. To achieve filtration at the 5-micron Level is a game changer. The ability to extract Magnesium concentrates and additional rare earths is significant. Although there are concerns with the need for a US$50 million Capex on a plant to get to commercial production, it is a fractional amount of the cost to bring a hard rock project online. (Based upon pro forma) Most of the propositions stated above make project permitting magnitudes more streamlined, setting the stage for commercial development by Q2/2024. With today's announcement that their pilot plant test facility has produced extremely robust results from a 50,000-liter test run was a critical achievement and an important milestone, all of which have been exceeded ahead of schedule and under budget, giving way to expected commercial development as early as Q2/2-24. In the interim, it is expected that they will commence production of 1,000 tonnes of lithium in June 2024, which would generate annual revenue to the order of CA$35,000,000. In the news release, it was stated that OPEX for the 1,000 tonnes would be CA$3,477,000 placing the pre-tax earnings number at CA$31,523,000 or around CA$0.23 per share on a fully-diluted basis. Comparable lithium producers sport P/E multiples in the 30-times range, so a fair value for EPS to the end of June 2025 would suggest a value in and around CA$6.90 per share. The company intends to deliver a positive PEA by the end of summer 2023, followed by Pre- Feasibility and Feasibility studies thereafter. In the mining business, I was always impressed if a company could generate enough cash in the first three years to retire all capital expenditures ("CAPEX") incurred during the build-out phase but in Volt's case, cash flow from lithium sales would offset the estimated CA$50 million in costs within eighteen months, which would bode quite well for rerating in year three. Also, the expectation is for them to gradually grow the operation to a 20,000-tonne operation generating CA$700 million per annum in revenue against CA$69,540,000 in OPEX, netting out CA$630,046,000 in pre-tax profit. The per-share number will depend solely on the price at which they raise the CA$50,000,000. At CA$0.50, that would be 100% dilution, while at CA$2.00/share, a mere 25% dilution. In a news release dated May 18, the company stated that the Rainbow Lake aquifers carry enough brines to support a 20,000-tonne operation for a period of 215 years, which is astounding. Today's news release places the recovery rates from the pilot plant testing amongst the highest on record for DLE operations. As can be seen from the adjacent map, they have access to the brines through their deal with Cabot Energy, a subsidiary of Ivanhoe Electric which in turn is a company controlled by Ivanhoe Capital, the family holding company of none other than billionaire Robert Friedland. Friedland is obviously aware of Volt's activities and of the tremendous milestones achieved since last summer. He is also highly active on social media as a champion of "responsible mining" and a huge bull on copper. The company has demonstrated an excellent command of marketing its story as 30-day, 100-day, and 365-day daily volumes range from 107,000 to 132,000, providing the much-needed institutional liquidity that is a large concern for professional investors. Catalysts for advancement in upcoming weeks include the following: Preliminary Economic Analysis ("PEA") The involvement of strategic investors CAPEX financing (CA$50m plus) Acquisitions / land expansion Government grants (the company has already applied for CA$100 million grant in March 2023) Initial production Conclusion In a world economy driven by the need to move to electrification and away from fossil fuels, the three pillars are source (new electricity sources), transmission (more copper needed in moving the energy), and storage (more batteries with sufficient capacity requiring lithium, graphite, and manganese). Granitic pegmatites provide the greatest abundance of lithium-containing minerals, with spodumene and petalite being the most commercially viable sources, and while these are present in varying concentrations in North America, they take a great deal of time and CAPEX to develop. VLT has proven that brines are a long-term, dependable source of lithium supply, with the recent pilot plant results confirming the economic viability of their DLE technology in processing lower-grade brines. Volt is in itself an enormous growth story in an enormous growth industry, so with major multinationals such as Ford and Exxon moving to secure dependable lithium sources through acquisition, I see Volt as a major target as the leading lithium brines processor in North America and as such, a viable candidate for acquisition by other energy or auto companies. I am holding the position in anticipation of an M&A-based valuation in the CA$7-8 range to the end of 2024 with possible upside revisions based upon lithium prices and Volt's operational progress. More Info: This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders 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. More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp By complete coincidence, my interview with music journalist and musician John Robb occurs on World Goth Day. As the author of the mighty new tome, The Art of Darkness: A History of Goth, Robb approves of the designation. Anything that puts a spotlight on a great culture is worth celebrating, he says. Given the connotations around Goth of the gloomy and brooding one might wonder if its a waste of a day as the adherents of this subculture style themselves very much as creatures of the night. However, this is the kind of mild mockery and cartoonish stereotyping that Robb resists in his book. To many, Goth conjures up images of black-clad, crestfallen-looking individuals, who may on occasion exhibit a sartorial flamboyance but whose musical tastes are casually dismissed as unfashionable. The Ground Zero for Goth music may have occurred between 1979 - 1981, but Robb outlines a rich and multi-faceted history that has roots in romantic literature and Gothic architecture and stretches up to the contemporary ambassador of Goth, Tim Burton. Crucially, he passionately asserts an innovative genre of music and accounts for its derision by metropolitan types. Mostly because it emerged in the regions, in places like Northampton, Hull and Leeds, removed from the purview of a London-centric media. In recent decades the post-punk scene, containing bands like Gang of Four, PIL, and Wire, has been celebrated as a true exemplar of musical sophistication, but the ignoring of bands like Bauhaus and The Sisters of Mercy, who were retrospectively dubbed Goth, irked Robb. The music media is really into post-punk so its filtered through the eyes of people who like The Gang of Four, he exclaims. But thats not the whole story. Theres a whole raft of other bands who were influenced by Bauhaus. I dont know why this is but people who write in the media are not that into Bauhaus. Savages, when they came out were compared to Siouxsie, but musically they sound really like Bauhaus, and it turns out their guitarist played in a Bauhaus covers band when she was really young and they were a direct influence on them. But nobody mentioned that because all the people writing about them were not Bauhaus fans. So they kind of get written out of the story, and that annoyed me. And thats part of the reason I wrote this book, he states. By the time the term Goth appeared in the media, the culture had pretty much formed as fans gravitated towards a dark and drama-filled sound that they could dance to in alternative music clubs, while the main musical pillars of the scene staunchly rejected the label. Robb recalls: A lot of bands put their hands in the air and said, were not Goth, which actually they weren't Goth because they had already formed. But on the other hand, its quite a handy term. Its a shorthand, isnt it. If someone said Goth youd know it would be dark, experimental, and interesting. The term 'Gothic' had been historically applied in a musical context in a few instances. The Doors were described as Gothic in 1967 when they played their first gig in New York, Robb outlines. And then the Banshees had been described as Gothic and Joy Division in 1979. And then UK Decay were the first band to be called Goth. A lot of people like The Banshees, they hated the term Goth, but they dont mind the term Gothic because it makes you think of Edgar Allan Poe and Gothic architecture. Which in a sense they fit very well into that. Its not pretentious at all. Theres no reason why the Banshees shouldnt be considered like a piece of fantastic architecture, he cackles. Siouxsie and The Banshees members in 1987 (from left): Steve Severin, Siouxsie Sioux and Budgie. When I interviewed [Banshees bassist] Steve Severin in the book he says he doesnt like the term Goth as its a bit kind of trashy, a bit daft. Its all a bit comic book. But he likes the term Gothic. The Banshees were pretty serious about what they were doing. Thats why they were so brilliant. They werent a comedy band. They werent a pastiche of darkness. They were embracing darkness. If you saw them at the time and you look back at their appearances on TV on YouTube, thats not a band doing it as an ironic piss-take of Goth. That band is taking it seriously. Thats what made them so vital. Reared in Blackpool in England, Robb, like so many other young people in the 1970s found inspiration in Punk, and he witnessed the various scenes that emerged in the movement's wake. I like all the little journeys that came out of punk, shares the founder of The Membranes, but the Goth one was probably the closest because it was the most experimental. It carried a lot of that experimental deconstruction of rock that had been in Punk. Kind of in a way you could argue that Goth actually finished off Punks journey for it. Because Punk was all about trying to make new rock music that wasnt cliched rock. You know, no 12-bar blues. Goth had a lot of Black music influences, embraced technology. Some of those records are completely mindblowing. Bela Lugosis Dead, when you actually sit back and listen to it, is an amazing experimental record that really works. I wanted to celebrate that in the book as well, in which some of the greatest art rock in the UK and Ireland was Goth. Just like the northern English towns already referenced, Robb sees in Dublin the home of one of the genres true outliers, the Virgin Prunes. One of the greatest bands in the scene, he gushes, who I argue in the book totally changed Dublin just by walking down the street dressed up the way they did. They were catalytic. Theyre one of my favourite bands in the scene. Their story is really fascinating. The Art of Darkness is available to order. John Robb will appear at BIMM College on Thursday June 1; Kasbah Social Club, Limerick, on June 2; and Prims Bookshop, Kinsale, June 3 David J Haskins and Pete Murphy of British goth rock band Bauhaus wrap up the UK leg of their mammoth world tour, which started in Dublin on January 28, at Carling Academy Brixton on February 3, 2006 in London, England. goth (Photo by Jim Dyson/Getty Images) FIVE KEY GOTH BANDS Bauhaus: The genre didnt exist when the Northampton quartet recorded Bela Lugosis Dead at the beginning of 1979, but thematically and musically the skeletal 9-minute-long opus is a foundational text in Goth music. Its dramatic musical scope allied with vocalist Peter Murphys baritone set the template for the genre. The Sisters of Mercy: Enigmatic frontman Andrew Eldritch vehemently rejects the Goth label but with each album they have redefined the music, expanding the palette by incorporating choral flourishes and an implacable electronic pulse. Robert Smith and his band the Cure perform at the 2004 HFStival on May 22, 2004 in Washington D.C. (Photo by David S. Holloway/Getty Images) goth The Cure: Robert Smith also baulks at the Goth label and in many ways they have proved to be a musically mercurial proposition, but the mournful vocals, existential lyrics and the baroque musical qualities are undeniably Gothic. Dead Can Dance: On an instrumental and compositional basis, this Australian duo sit easily in the World Music section, but their vocals, alternately ethereal and deeply resonant, and dark, almost medieval preoccupations are very Gothic. The Mission: No one hails The Mish as exemplars of musical innovation, but having had two members serve in The Sisters of Mercy they are an example of a band comfortable with the Goth tag while also troubling the charts. The end of the school term is nearly here and school summer holidays are in sight. Supermarkets and card shops are crammed with gifts for the Best Teacher and any parent who has Googled anything child-related in the last year will be bombarded with Instagram ads for 'teacher presents'. Rather than trying to guess what to get your childs teacher this year to say thank you, we decided to ask teachers what they really want - go straight to the source and you cant go wrong. Aine, a teacher from Waterford, said that she believes schools should have a no presents policy. If there isn't one, parents feel under pressure to send something in. However, she points out that for the past few years, parents in the school she is teaching in have organised collections through WhatsApp groups of 5, and sent in a voucher from the whole class. That's a better idea than parents sending in individual presents that often cost in excess of 20. On an individual basis, Aine said that shes teaching for 27 years, and the one thing she has kept are cards from pupils with nice messages. A spokesperson from the teachers union, INTO, said the feedback they received from teachers is that a handmade card is the most meaningful and memorable gift to receive. It is for individual schools to have their own policy on gifts for teachers, and teachers do not expect gifts at the end of the school year or at Christmas, said an INTO spokesperson. THE LITTLE THINGS Corina is a teacher from Kilkenny, and she said that she believes bought "Thank You Teacher" cards are not a patch on a simple homemade card. Nothing fancy, just an A4 sheet folded in two, with a drawing of the teacher and a little handwritten thank you note inside always means so much and teachers keep these cards forever. Drawings have sometimes been accompanied by speech bubble quotes of mine, that I must say all day long, which always makes me howl laughing. Corina said that for presents teachers love, a voucher for a takeaway coffee from the local coffee shop for 5 is perfect. She also said one gift that stands out for her is a duo of handbag size fancy lavender hand sanitisers. They were perfect for my desk, and I always get complimented on the smell and theyre from an Irish company. Some parents like to club together and give a group gift voucher, which often works out much cheaper for parents than an individual present. The feedback on "Best Teacher" mugs, Christmas decorations, or magnets is mixed with one teacher saying they are usually expensive and rarely used. I dont want to sound ungrateful, but never in the history of the world has a teacher put a "Best Teacher" decoration on their Christmas tree. However, another teacher disagrees and said that she absolutely loves anything with "Best Teacher" on it. WHAT'S THE BEST PRESENT? Ciara from Schooldays.ie said that over the years the Schooldays community has voted on polls on the most popular gift for teachers. Year after year, the winner of the poll is typically all the class parents giving 5 to the pot, and getting the teacher a voucher for a local shopping centre or restaurant. This keeps costs to a minimum while also treating teachers to a fabulous gift. Cathy is a secondary school teacher in North Cork, but also a parent, and said that in her experience secondary school teachers don't get gifts. I'm actually opposed to gift-giving. I think the pressure on parents to give gifts is far too great and I'm sure many can't afford it. We have always had a culture of no individual gifts in my child's school. The class group makes a collection and gives vouchers. Piano teacher Claire Martin from Cork said she loves getting chocolates or flowers, but she said that over the years she has also received some beautiful art which she said really meant a lot to her. Sinead is a preschool teacher from Cork also, and said that without a doubt the personal touch is the best. She said that the children in her classroom love coming in with their presents on the last day, and she said she loves seeing their happy faces with their gift bags. I absolutely love it when I see that a child has gone to effort with a gift. I really honestly do not expect gifts at the end of the year but when a child presents me with a card they made themselves or a piece of art I really just love that. Over the years children have made me cakes and special pictures and I have kept everything. I love seeing them put their own personal touch on something. Of course when it comes to gifts we love getting wine or candles. You can never go wrong with one of those but honestly, a 2 gift from the Euro shop or a 50 Brown Thomas voucher means the same to me, it really is the thought that counts. An environmental charity has urged the Government to become the first in Europe to ban disposable vapes outright. Ireland has a leading legacy in tackling tobacco use already and should continue that by banning disposable e-cigarettes "as soon as possible", Voice of Irish Concern for the Environment (Voice) said. A number of European governments are actively considering how to tackle the proliferation of the disposable form of e-cigarettes on health, social, and environmental grounds. Unlike the long-term use of regular e-cigarettes which can be charged using a USB cable for years on end, disposable vapes are ones that last for a certain amount of puffs before being discarded. They are far cheaper than regular vaping devices, with ample anecdotal evidence of their blighting urban and rural landscapes across Ireland by being thrown away when there is no liquid left to vape. New legislation cracking down on selling e-cigarettes and vaping devices to minors was approved on Tuesday, but disposable vapes are not covered in it. Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said that a ban on disposable vapes is the subject of "ongoing discussion". Circular Economy Minister Ossian Smyth has previously signalled his support for banning disposable vapes on environmental grounds. Voice said it shared Mr Smyths concerns about the wasteful use of valuable resources, such as lithium and copper, in disposable vapes. "These materials are critical for building a greener economy and should not be wasted on a product that is designed to be used only once. As the leading NGO on waste issues and the circular economy...we believe that the ban on disposable vapes is a crucial step in achieving this goal," it said. 'Wasteful single-use item' The group's chief executive, Tad Kirakowski, called a ban on disposable vapes a "win-win scenario". "We reduce the health impacts and nicotine addiction of young people, we reduce the use of critical raw materials needed for other more worthy technologies, and we reduce a significant littered item. There is no justification for the production or use of this wasteful single-use item and a ban based on health and environmental grounds is completely reasonable and needed," he said. The banning of disposable vapes is being discussed across Europe currently. Bans are under consideration in Scotland, while Tory Party MP and consultant paediatrician Caroline Johnson put forward a proposed bill in February in the House of Commons that would ban their sale. A French bill last year called for a complete ban on the "manufacture, sale, distribution or free offer of single-use e-cigarettes on the ground that they are "an aberration from the point of view of both public health and the environmental footprint. German calls for a ban on disposable vapes are growing, with Federal Environment Minister Steffi Lemke signalling support. Australia banned recreational vaping in the biggest crackdown yet last month, with disposable vapes to be outlawed. It will see e-cigarettes being sold only in pharmacies to assist smokers to quit. Greyhound Racing Ireland (GRI) pleaded for a 27,000 hike in pay for its new CEO along with the provision of a company car. GRI said the existing 132,920 salary for the role had not been reviewed in many years and was no longer reflective of the remuneration packages for senior management positions in the public or private sector. In an appeal to Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue, they said the CEO of Horse Racing Ireland was being paid 190,000 per year with a car and pension. However, the board of GRI said they would be happy with a 160,000 salary for their new boss, a position that is expected to be filled in the coming months. They also asked for a company car saying the organisation had nine stadia, which meant the CEO would be required to travel on a regular basis to different locations. In addition, they sought a defined contribution pension 25% of salary paid by [GRI] as well as up to 30 days holidays, according to records released under FOI. The letter from Greyhound Racing Irelands interim CEO John Tuohey last November said recruitment for the position was at an advanced stage. He forwarded an executive salary survey from recruitment firm Brightwater, which said the average pay for a CEO in general management and operations was 180,000. Mr Tuohey said the current package on offer was for a seven-year contract, with a salary of 132,920 and a 25% pension payment from GRI. He wrote: This remuneration package has been in place for many years and is considered to be no longer reflective of the remuneration packages for CEOs of similar size organisations in either the private or public sector. Mr Tuohey said the salary was not just causing difficulty in recruiting a CEO, but also the second-tier executive management team who would have to be paid less than their boss. The role of CEO is multifaceted requiring a broad range of skill sets from financial acumen to regulatory compliance, said the letter to the Agriculture Minister. It added that GRI was embarking on a new five-year strategic plan and that it was vital they were able to attract and retain a high-calibre chief executive. Mr Tuohey wrote: The Board of Rasaiocht Con Eireann trust that the Minister will be in a position to consider this request favourably and will provide any further information that the Minister might require to assist with the evaluation of the request. The Department of Agriculture responded late in April of this year, writing directly to the chair of GRI Frank Nyhan. Their letter said that following discussions with the Department of Public Expenditure, they were in a position to sanction the new 160,000 package. It would include a fixed-term contract for seven years, a choice of three pension options with a contribution of 25% basic salary from GRI, and the use of a car. The letter added: The contract should be based on the standard CEO template, reflect the above terms, and be signed prior to the chief executive taking up the appointment. Asked about the records, Greyhound Racing Ireland said they had nothing further to add to them. Ireland has signed a cooperation agreement with Germany to explore the burgeoning field of so-called "green hydrogen", but there is still no firm date for the long-awaited national strategy to be published. 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. Department of Environment officials would only say the national strategy will be published "shortly", despite being urged by industry figures to commit to publishing it as a matter of priority in the renewable energy field. A national hydrogen strategy has long been mooted by Government and, after a number of delays, was due to be published by the end of the second quarter of this year. Green hydrogen produces energy through the electrolysis of water, while eliminating emissions by using renewable energy. Its supporters say it could completely revolutionise clean energy, while its detractors say it is too cumbersome and costly to achieve on a mass scale however, it has turned even the heads of sceptics in recent years as costs come down. In January 2022, the Government said it would kickstart the national strategy before July of that year, after a major report said Ireland was lagging behind other countries, despite enormous potential. Cork has been earmarked by Government and business leaders as a potentially leading region for green hydrogen production, with Environment Minister Eamon Ryan extolling the region as suited to lead the way because of existing and natural infrastructure. After signing the cooperation agreement with Germany on green hydrogen, Mr Ryan conceded he would have "preferred" the strategy to have been published by now, but that "sometimes getting it right is actually more valuable". Ireland has the potential to become a "green hydrogen powerhouse" by producing the cheapest in Europe by 2030 in the still-evolving sphere, according to a newer analysis earlier this year. British firm Aurora Energy Research, which is among the biggest power market analytics companies in Europe, said Ireland could become a continental leader in the space, but warned more policy support was needed to realise its potential. Ireland is currently well behind the curve compared to other European countries when it comes to green hydrogen. A homeless asylum seeker with a history of mental health difficulties has brought a High Court challenge against the State's refusal to provide her with accommodation. The action has been brought on behalf of a woman, aged in her 20s and from a Central American country, who the High Court heard on Wednesday has been refused a place to stay because she left the International Protection Office (IPO) before a taxi arrived to take her to venue where she would be accommodated. Her counsel David Leonard Bl, instructed by solicitors acting for the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, said that the woman, who cannot communicate in English effectively, left the IPO after being told that no accommodation was available to her. She had waited for some time in the IPO before leaving, it is claimed. It is claimed that an email sent in early May on behalf of the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, who has responsibility for those seeking international protection, stated that she would not be given accommodation because she left the IPO before the taxi arrived. While the woman is apparently on a "re-accommodation list" counsel said that her situation is precarious. Over the last number of weeks she has been staying on friend's sofas, but has also spent nights on the streets, as she has no family nor close friends in Ireland. The woman has a history of mental health issues and has been self-harming. Her condition has been exacerbated due to her homelessness, it is also claimed. It is claimed that the minister has no legal power to withdraw the relevant reception conditions where the person leaves the IPO before the taxi arrives. They initially came to Ireland on a student visa, but earlier this year applied for international protection, citing a fear to return to her home country because she claims she has been harmed by and is at risk from a former partner who has a powerful position in a well-known and very large criminal gang. Orders sought As a result of being left homeless the woman, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, has brought judicial review proceedings against the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Ireland and the Attorney General. In her action, she seeks various orders and declarations from the court. These include orders quashing the minister's decision of May 3 last refusing to provide her with housing, and that the minister be required to provide her with accommodation. She also seeks various declarations including that the minister's failure to provide her with accommodation is unlawful, and in breach of her EU law rights, the Irish Constitution and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. She further seeks damages for the breach of her rights. Her action is one of many brought on behalf of those seeking international protection who were left without accommodation currently before the High Court. The matter came before Mr Justice Cian Ferriter, who on an ex-parte basis granted the woman's legal team permission to bring the challenge. The judge noted that while all persons without accommodation are vulnerable, the evidence before the court was to the effect that the applicant is in "a particularly vulnerable situation". The matter was adjourned to a date in mid-June. There are two basic things we ask of our public officials that they avoid inefficiencies as much as possible and that they ensure some measure of transparency around their decisions. The causal link between decisions and consequences has always been less than straightforward in the public sector, where the unwanted effects of policies can take time to materialise, but recently it feels like we havent been getting bang for our buck. Last week the publication of inspection reports of Owenacurra Mental Health facility by the Mental Health Commission left the HSE with serious questions to answer. The Owenacurra Mental Health Facility in Midleton, East Cork, received a 90% compliance rate in the inspection report. This should be good news, except its not, because the HSE is in the process of closing the centre, which will mean the further displacement of vulnerable residents to alternative locations in Cork City that have received lower marks in inspections. The HSE is peddling what seems to be the false narrative that the service had to close because of concerns of the Mental Health Commission. It doesnt stack up. Local councillor Liam Quaide, an active campaigner in the bid to retain Owenacurra, (he resigned from the Green Party due to a lack of support from ministerial colleagues on the issue) said the inspection report further reinforced that there was no justification for closing the facility. The closure has received staunch opposition from within the community. Independent councillor Liam Quaide. Other news reports, including one last Friday from RTE reporter Brian O'Connell, appear to raise the suspicion that the HSE is surreptitiously moving from the care in the community model for those with mental health difficulties back to the debunked 1980s idea of having patients or residents living in centralised institutions. Meanwhile, back at Owenacurra, residents have lived with the huge psychological burden of not knowing when the centre would be closed or where they would be living following this closure. There were originally 20 residents in Owenacurra when, in 2021, the facility was earmarked for closure. The Owenacurra Centre in Midleton Picture: Howard Crowdy There are now six residents left, as the others have been moved elsewhere on what turns out to be spurious grounds. The idea of people with significant mental health issues not knowing where they are going to live is inhumane. The best way to synopsise what has happened at Owenacurra is to say that residents are being ripped from their homes at an unknown date to inferior facilities and are being detached from their communities, in a reversal of public health policy as to how we treat people with mental health difficulties. And yet theres no transparency from the HSE on any of this. Almost two weeks ago, the public accounts committee was examining financial governance issues at the University of Limerick (UL). Of particular concern was the 2018 purchase of land to build a city-centre campus in Limerick. The land was said to have been bought at an inflated price, so in this instance, financial accountability and the use of public funds come into question. University president, Professor Kerstin Mey, and colleagues appeared to duck and dive when asked questions by the PAC. Independent TD for Wexford Verona Murphy, who was frustrated by what seemed to be a teeth-pulling operation, accused Prof Mey and UL colleagues of engaging in an arse-covering exercise full stop. Semantically, Murphys words may be a little rough around the edges, but she had a valid point. Independent TD Verona Murphy. Picture: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos However, Verona Murphy also asked if the UL team had engaged in media training before appearing in front of the PAC. Professor Mey, in the most circuitous of ways, conceded that they had. And in the wake of appearing, Prof Mey said that it is also a fact that legal advice constrains us from discussing many of the shortcomings in the acquisition. To her credit, Prof Mey said after her appearance at the PAC that some of the criticism levelled at the institution was completely fair. And Prof Mey, and anyone else appearing before a public accounts committee, has a right to seek training and counsel before they give evidence. Sometimes the PAC, high on their own supply, can feel out of control. They dont have a right to trample all over somebodys rights just because theyve been appointed to a committee and because a person is obliged to appear in front of them. However, they, and we as the public, have a right to some measure of answerability from those who appear. Unfortunately, the harsh reality is that appearing before the PAC doesnt ultimately change the price of fish. A recent eye-wateringly arrogant example from the playbook of some public officials who are required to answer questions about their actions was the botched secondment of former chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan to a post at Trinity College Dublin. And unlike in Prof Meys case, there wasnt the faintest hint of reproach in how this episode was handled on the part of any of the relevant parties. Quite the reverse. An external report on the matter concluded that the funding commitments by the State towards supporting the public health strategy role to the tune of 2m annually bypassed all of the accepted protocols for research funding and were arrived at by Tony Holohan and Department of Health secretary general Robert Watt. When Watt appeared before the Oireachtas finance committee to account for his role, he was labelled arrogantly dismissive. Former chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan. Picture: Sam Boal / RollingNews.ie The Tony goes to Trinity episode seemed to underscore the fact that some public officials, or indeed institutions, in receipt of large amounts of taxpayers money appear to deeply resent the temerity of the little people questioning their decisions in the first place. Trinity College did not instigate an internal inquiry into the failed secondment. While the Trinity board discussed the matter, it said it would not be commenting further. It speaks volumes about their attitude to the relationship between them and the citizens from whose pockets they receive significant funding. Its hard not to draw the conclusion that there seems to be a philosophy or culture among some high-ranking public officials or institutions in receipt of public loot that they dont perceive themselves as remotely accountable. When the internal controls of departments, organisations, universities, or agencies fail, you need some external controls. Ours amount to a brouhaha stirred up by the media, some inadequate statements released, followed by senior politicians saying that we should await the findings of the report, a report, and then nothing. Witch-hunts are not useful, but there is a midpoint between looking for scapegoats and a legitimate search for answers and the rationales behind decisions so that lessons can be learned. Citizens have a right to hold their representatives accountable for poor public management, although holding public officials to account often seems like a pipedream. There is no price for failure in the public sector, and too often performance management seems entirely lacking. Too little perceived answerability for actions, omissions, decisions, policies, and expenditures and the public mood inevitably sours. Particularly when those who are called to account for themselves appear to give two fingers to the citizenry. On election day, this leads to an inevitable change in government, but were left with the same bunch of public officials. The workings of modern bureaucracy have sometimes led to savage Myles na gCopaleen type humour, but when youre talking about particularly vulnerable human beings, there is no Kafkaesque black comedy to be mined from the situation. In the particular case of Owenacurra, answers are needed as to what has gone on and why, and whether more generally our national policy for mental health patients has been reversed in moving away from centralised institutional settings to community care. At the very least, the Owenacurrra patients and their families deserve that. Hundreds of ethnic Serbs have gathered in a town in northern Kosovo, days after clashes that injured 30 soldiers from a Nato-led peacekeeping force and more than 50 Serbs. The incident has provoked fears of a renewal of the regions bloody conflicts and prompted the Western military alliance to send in additional troops. The Serbs reiterated that they want the Kosovo special police and ethnic Albanian officials they call fake mayors to withdraw from northern Kosovo. The crowd then spread a huge Serbian flag. The United States strongly condemns yesterdays attacks against @NATO led Kosovo Force (KFOR) peacekeepers, and urges both sides to take immediate actions to de-escalate tensions and to recommit to EU-led normalization talks. Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) May 30, 2023 Wednesdays protest outside the city hall in Zvecan, 28 miles north of the capital, Pristina, was peaceful as of late Wednesday morning. On Monday, ethnic Serbs tried to storm municipal offices and fought with both Kosovo police and the peacekeepers. Serbs are a minority in Kosovo, but a majority in parts of the countrys north bordering Serbia. Many reject the Albanian-majority territorys claim of independence from Serbia. A former province of Serbia, Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence is also not recognised by Belgrade. The United States and the European Union have recently stepped up efforts to resolve the dispute as the war rages in Ukraine. People hold a giant Serbian flag during a protest in front of the city hall in the town of Zvecan (AP) Nato said it will send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests after the clashes on Monday. The Nato-led peacekeeping mission, KFor, currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. US secretary of state Antony Blinken urged all parties to take immediate actions to de-escalate tensions. Mr Blinken described violence against soldiers from the multinational force known as KFor as unacceptable. A German government spokesperson said Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron plan to meet with the leaders of Serbia and Kosovo on Thursday. Spokesman Steffen Hebestreit told reporters in Berlin that the meeting will take place on the sidelines of the European Political Community meeting in Chisinau, Moldova. The confrontation first unfolded last week after ethnic Albanian officials, who were elected in a vote that Serbs overwhelmingly boycotted, entered municipal buildings to take office with an escort of Kosovo police. KFor soldiers place a barbed wire in front of the city hall in the town of Zvecan (AP) When Serbs tried to block the officials, Kosovo police fired tear gas to disperse them. In Zvecan on Monday, angry Serbs again clashed first with the police and later with Nato-led troops who tried to secure the area. Speaking at an international security forum in Bratislava, Slovakia, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said Kosovo police will not accept the Serbs demands for a complete withdrawal, but hinted at the possibility of early local elections. As long as there is a violent mob outside the municipal buildings, we must have our special units, he said. If there would have been peaceful protests asking for early election, that would attract my attention and perhaps I would consider that request. Mr Kurti also suggested that Russia may have a hand in the latest flareup, pointing to protesters who do graffiti with letter Z, showing admiration for despotic President Putin and for the Russian military aggression and invasion in Ukraine. Russia is a close Serbian ally although Belgrade populist leaders claim to be seeking European Union membership. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday that Moscow is monitoring the situation in Kosovo and spoke in support of the Serbs. We are following that, we are unconditionally supporting Serbia, supporting the Serbs, Mr Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. We believe that all legitimate rights and interests of Kosovo Serbs must be observed and ensured. Serbia has put the countrys military on its highest state of alert and sent more troops to the border with Kosovo. Hundreds of ethnic Serbs are gathering in front of the city hall in their repeated efforts to take over the offices of one of the municipalities where ethnic Albanian mayors took up their posts last week (AP) While Washington and most EU nations recognise Kosovos statehood, Belgrade has the backing of Russia and China in rejecting it. Western officials have sharply criticised both Kosovos authorities for pushing to install the newly-elected mayors, and Serbs because of the violence. Serbian officials have repeatedly warned that Serbia would not stand idle if Serbs in Kosovo come under attack. The 1998-1999 war in Kosovo erupted when ethnic Albanian separatists launched a rebellion against Serbia, which responded with a brutal crackdown. The war ended after Nato bombing forced Serbia to pull out of the territory, and paved the way for the deployment of Nato-led peacekeepers. The Balkan region is still reckoning with the aftermath of a series of bloody conflicts in the 1990s during the bloody breakup of the former country of Yugoslavia. On Wednesday, United Nations judges imposed increased sentences for two allies of former Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic, who were convicted of an attempt to drive non-Serbs out of towns in Croatia and Bosnia during the wars in the 1990s. Milosevic also led Serbia during its 1998-1999 war in Kosovo. US President Joe Biden has approved a new package of military aid for Ukraine that totals up to $300 million and includes additional munitions for drones and other weapons. It comes as Russia has continued to pummel Ukraines capital and unmanned aircraft have targeted Moscow. US officials have said there is no suggestion that US-made drones or munitions were used in the Moscow strikes, which the Kremlin blamed on Ukraine but Kyiv has not acknowledged. A worker repairs a damage on a building in Moscow after drone attack (Sofia Sandurskaya, Moscow News Agency photo via AP/PA) The Biden administration has said it has made clear to Ukraine that US-made weapons should not be used for attacks inside Russian territory. We dont tell them where to strike. We dont tell them where not to strike. Ultimately President Zelensky and his military commanders decide what theyre going to do from a military perspective, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Wednesday. But he added that the US has been very clear with the Ukrainians privately, weve certainly been clear publicly, that we do not support attacks inside Russia. He said Mr Zelensky has given the US assurances that the Ukrainians respect those concerns. The new aid package provides munitions to boost Ukraines air defence capabilities to fend off Russias air assaults on Kyiv. It provides munitions for Patriot missile batteries and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), as well Avenger and Stinger air defence systems, mine-clearing equipment, anti-armour rounds, unguided Zuni aircraft rockets, night vision goggles, and about 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition and an undisclosed amount of other artillery rounds. Moscow was targeted by a rare drone attack on Tuesday that lightly damaged residential buildings. Russian officials say the West, which throughout the grinding war has sought to keep the conflict from expanding beyond Ukraine, has not adequately condemned the attack on Russian soil. Asked about Moscows criticism that the West is quietly supportive of attacks inside Russian territory, Mr Kirby scoffed that the Russians are not going to believe anything I have to say on the matter. He said the US has made clear that it will not change its policy about not enabling or encouraging strikes inside Russia, but added: I dont think were going to take it upon ourselves as a burden to privately communicate that to the Russians. Ukrainian officials rejoiced over Tuesdays drone attack but avoided claiming responsibility, a response similar to what they have said after previous attacks on Russian territory. US officials did not provide details on the drone munitions in the new aid package or specify which unmanned aircraft would use them. The Defence Department has given Ukraine a variety of unmanned aircraft over the last year, for both surveillance and attacks, including at least two versions of the Switchblade, a so-called kamikaze drone that can loiter in the air and then explode into a target. Including the latest aid, the US has committed more than $37.6 billion in weapons and other equipment to Ukraine since Russia attacked on February 24, 2022. This latest package will be done under presidential drawdown authority, which allows the Pentagon to take weapons from its own stocks and quickly ship them to Ukraine, officials said. Burma Myanmar Junta Troops Raid Kachin Jade Mines A jade mine in Hpakant, Kachin State. Junta troops have raided mining companies at Myanmars jade hub in Hpakant, Kachin State, according to residents. Triple One Co, Kyaw Naing and Brothers Co between Hmaw Wan Gyi and Hmaw Maung Layan villages were raided on May 27 by troops firing shots. They detained around 50 jade prospectors and employees. Junta troops also raided Kachin National Development and Progress Co Ltd (KNDPC) and Naymin Gabar Co in Lone Khin village on Monday and occupied the sites until Tuesday. More than 50 prospectors and employees of Kyaw Naing and Brothers Co are still in detention, a resident told The Irrawaddy on Tuesday. The troops were from the 77th Light Infantry Division, said residents. Each company has approximately 120 employees. Troops also reportedly seized machinery. We dont know the details as employees are not allowed to leave. The raids are a way of summoning the mine owners. I guess they want to extort money. KNDPC is owned by the owner of Mingalar Hospital in Mandalay, said a resident on Tuesday. The regime imposed a ban on all jade mining in Kachin State last year. Myanma Gems Enterprise, which is controlled by the juntas Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation, banned jade mining in Lone Khin, Hpakant, Maw Lu and Maw Han supposedly to preserve precious resources for future generations, to protect the environment and miners safety. It was widely believed the ban targeted the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), one of the most powerful ethnic armed organizations in Myanmar, which has been fighting the regime since the 2021 coup. Jade is the major source of income for the KIA. Despite the ban, mines continue to operate while sharing profits between the KIA and Myanmars military. A Hpakant jade and gems merchant said: All the jade mines are controlled by the KIA and the firms have to share profits with it. The mines are guarded by the KIA. Perhaps the raids were to arrest KIA members. Numerous detentions have been reported in the jade hub since the 2021 coup. Burma Myanmar Junta Troops Raid Sagaing Resistance Base The base of the Danger Force resistance group in Ayadaw Township after it was destroyed by junta troops on Sunday. / Danger Force Facebook In the last three days, Myanmar junta troops have raided at least 10 villages and a resistance base in Ayadaw and Kawlin townships in Sagaing Region. Junta troops raided a base in Ayadaw on Sunday, killing a woman, according to sources. The Danger Force resistance group said one of its bases near War Yaung village was attacked. A woman, 43, was shot in the head. We lost some ammunition, a vehicle and three motorcycles, which cost around 30 million kyats, a spokesman said. The victim was mother to a resistance member who cooked at the camp and was alone when junta troops raided the base, according to the group. Around 60 troops moved to War Tan village after they set fire to the base on Sunday. Danger Force said it attacked junta forces in the village on Tuesday in a prolonged clash. Two resistance members were injured, according to Danger Force. The junta casualties are unknown. Five civilians, including four elderly Taung Hmwar villagers, in Ayardaw Township were killed when junta troops raided the village on May 23. We found two charred bodies of women aged around 90 and 70 in burned houses. A man, 85, was killed by a shell. Another man in his 80s died of a heart attack, a villager said. Junta troops burned down Taung Hmwar village, destroying around 140 houses, according to sources. One villager said junta troops detained and tortured eight villagers, including an elderly man from Taung Hmwar village, and used them as human shields. Daw Cho Cho, 50, from Ma Gyi Sauk village was also killed when junta troops raided the village, destroying 89 houses on May 25. She was shot in her leg and set on fire by junta troops, according to a witness. More than 238 houses in three villages were burned down by junta troops in Ayadaw and at least 2,000 Taung Mhwar villagers were displaced, according to sources. Clashes were also reported in Kawlin Township on Monday. A pro-junta Telegram channel claimed that four resistance members were killed in the attack. However, a Kawlin Peoples Defense Force spokesman told The Irrawaddy that no resistance casualties had been reported. A fierce clash was reported near Inn Ma village on May 26, killing two junta troops and wounding many others, according to sources. The Irrawaddy could not independently verify the reports. Burma Russian Lower House Official Pledges Support for Myanmar Regimes Planned Poll Delegation led by the Deputy Chairman of State Duma Federal Assembly of Russian Federation after a meeting with Min Aung Hlaing in Taunggyi on Tuesday. The deputy chairman of Russias State Duma, the lower house of Russias parliament, pledged his support on Tuesday for Myanmars military regime to hold a free and fair election during his meeting with junta boss Min Aung Hlaing in Taunggyi, the Shan State capital. Deputy Chairman Sholban Kara-Ool met the junta-appointed Union Election Commission (UEC) head U Thein Soe in Naypyitaw before his meeting with the regime chief in Taunggyi, and discussed matters related to cooperation and the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the election bodies of Russia and Myanmar. Sholban Kara-Ool elaborated on what he had discussed with U Thein Soe when he met Min Aung Hlaing on Tuesday. The Russian lawmaker has also met deputy junta chief Soe Win, former foreign minister U Wunna Maung Lwin, who now sits on the regimes advisory body, and international cooperation minister Ko Ko Hlaing. He also visited the chair of the militarys proxy Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) Khin Yi at the USDPs headquarters in Naypyitaw. The two men discussed interaction and cooperation between the USDP and the United Russia Party. The regime has often said that it will hold a general election and hand power back to the winning party, but is yet to announce the date of the proposed poll. Min Aung Hlaing recently reaffirmed that the election will be held by any means, but he did not mention when. Despite that, Myanmars neighbor India has been assisting the UEC since last year. Representatives from China have also met U Thein Soe twice and inquired about the possibility of an election. Now Russia, Myanmars major arms supplier, has joined India and China in offering help to the junta to stage the election. Some foreign governments including the United States and some members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations have rejected the juntas proposed poll, saying it will be neither free nor fair. In April, Myanmars shadow National Unity Government urged democracies in Asia including Taiwan and Japan to reject the regimes planned election. War Against the Junta Myanmar Regime Forces Suffering Heavy Casualties in Kayah State KNDF fighters / KNDF Myanmars military regime is mounting large-scale attacks in southeast Myanmars Kayah State, but is also suffering heavy casualties, according to Karenni resistance forces and military analysts. Even as the devastating Cyclone Mocha was making landfall in Rakhine State on May 14, junta troops attacked Dawh Hlar Khu Village in the east of Demoso Township, some ten miles from the Kayah State capital Loikaw, and clashed with resistance groups including the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF), the Karenni Army (KA) and local Peoples Defense Forces (PDF). The fierce fighting lasted for nine days. Around 40 regime soldiers, including a captain and two lieutenants, and eight Karenni resistance fighters were killed in the clashes, said the KNDF on May 25. The Irrawaddy could not verify the casualties of both sides independently. Some 14 firearms including a pistol, two rocket-propelled launchers and ammunition were seized by the KNDF. Fresh clashes broke out on May 27 after junta troops launched assaults in Moebye Town on the border of Kayah and southern Shan states and in Konethar, Kayanthar and Saungkan villages in Loikaw Township. Regime aircraft carried out at least eight airstrikes during the Moebye fighting. A three-year-old was killed, four other civilians wounded and dozens of houses were damaged, according to Moebye PDF. On May 28, a junta jet dropped two bombs on refugee camps in the west of Moebye at around 4.30am, injuring four civilians and destroying three houses. The Karenni Revolution Union said that on May 29 four of its medics, two men and two women, were killed while evacuating the wounded in the May 27 clashes. Three fighters from KNDF Battalion 2 died in the fighting in Konethar Village in Loikaw, according to the KNDF. KA spokesman Khu Nye Reh said more junta troops were killed in the fighting than Karenni resistance fighters. We can tell that they suffer heavy casualties in the fighting. What we understand is that some of them have little combat experience. Some fled during the fighting in the Dawtamagyi neighborhood in March. They said that they had only been in the military for less than a year or only a month in some cases. We also have the advantage of local knowledge, as some junta battalions are not familiar with the terrain and weather here. We can guess which routes they will use. Junta troops have even attempted close-quarter combat in an attempt to seize resistance bases in the east of Demoso Township, said the KAs Khu Nye Reh. Since then regime forces have retreated a mile, but junta troops and resistance fighters remain deployed in the neighborhood known as Seven-Tier Lake and military tensions are running high. There are daily skirmishes across Kayah State, said the KAs spokesperson. There are clashes every day. Junta troops fire artillery and regime aircraft fly every day. There are skirmishes and sneak attacks on junta troops every day from the east of Demoso to the east of Hpruso and in the north of Bawlakhe. We also carry out daily ambushes with mines, said Khu Nye Reh. But for all the Myanmar militarys large-scale attacks in Kayah since February, regime forces have failed to make any serious impact on the resistance, noted a military analyst. The junta has brought in significant reinforcements from northern Shan State to launch large-scale operations in Kayah, but it is far from gaining an upper hand over the Karenni resistance forces. The regime is using around 40 battalions. But we can see that is not achieving good results, said the military analyst. Despite all the reinforcements, junta soldiers are still outnumbered by Karenni resistance forces, added the analyst. The KNDF, which is the strongest resistance group in Kayah, has 21 battalions. And there are also PDF battalions in every township. There are over 20,000 resistance fighters armed with automatic weapons fighting the regime across Kayah, said the military analyst. However, more locals have been displaced by the fighting. The number has increased by 50,000 to 250,000 over the past few months, according to the Karenni Human Rights Organization (KHRO). Aid provided by United Nations (UN) agencies and international organizations only reaches towns controlled by the regime and is not reaching refugees sheltering in the forest, said Ko Banyar, the director of the KHRO. There are already restrictions [imposed by the regime] on deliveries of food. Tight security checks outside Loikaw, which is the main route for transportation of commodities into Kayah, also makes delivering food difficult. UN agencies and international organizations only work in towns. They have only supplied Pekon and Loikaw towns, and they could not reach Hpruso, Demoso, Mese and Hpasawng where there are many displaced people. So we have to help them by ourselves, he said. With military tensions escalating in Kayah State, more civilians are bound to be displaced in the months to come. As the conflict zone widens, local resistance forces may struggle to obtain more weapons and ammunition. Analysis Why Hasnt the Myanmar Junta Boss Visited Beijing? --- Given the Myanmar regimes warm relations with China, it is somewhat puzzling, to those who follow the movements of Min Aung Hlaing, that the junta leader has yet to make a trip to the countrys huge northern neighbor since his 2021 coup, despite having made three trips to Russia, his other main ally. For those curious souls, the answer is that Min Aung Hlaing has been trying to do just that since he seized power. But his attempts have been in vain, with Beijing turning down two requests from the junta leader to visit so far, according to sources close to the matter. The reason for the rejections is not yet clear. For while China has stopped short of extending an official invitation to Min Aung Hlaing, it otherwise maintains warm relations with the junta. Early this month, its foreign minister, Qin Gang, met with the junta chief in Naypyitaw, becoming the highest-ranking Chinese official to visit Myanmar since the takeover. The foreign minister also met with former dictator Than Shwe. Prior to Qins visit, other Chinese officialsboth from the government and the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC)flew to Naypyitaw and met with Min Aung Hlaing. Analysts say Beijing has adopted a policy of cautious engagement with the junta, politically distancing itself but maintaining a certain level of contact for the sake of its economic interests in Myanmar. But this doesnt fully explain why a country like China, which has been internationally branded as one of the regimes allies, is so obviously holding Min Aung Hlaing at arms length by not offering him an official visit to Beijing. Some observers say China may be upset with the Myanmar junta leader for the social and political turmoil caused by his coup in Myanmar, which has derailed the Belt and Road Initiative projects in the country agreed under the ousted National League for Democracy (NLD) government. China is one of the top investors in Myanmar and has strategic infrastructure projects in the country, including energy pipelines and a port giving Beijing a critical link to the Indian Ocean. China also continues to provide political and military support to ethnic armed groups based along the Myanmar-China border. Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Myanmar in January 2020 and signed 33 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) and agreements with the NLD government. Among other things, the MOUs covered cooperation in sectors like infrastructure mega-project development, railways, industrial and power projects, trade, investment, and human resourcesmaking it one of the largest set of agreements ever reached between the two countries. Its evident that, were it not for the political instability caused by Min Aung Hlaings coup, some of the projects signed with Xi would now be under way if they had gone ahead as planned. Instead, to Chinas dismay, they have been stalled for more than two years now as the regime still does not have control of the country amid a nationwide popular armed resistance movement. This was likely at the top of Qins agenda when he met Min Aung Hlaing this month. The Chinese Foreign Ministry said the trip was aimed at further following through on the outcomes of Xis 2020 visit and deepening practical cooperation on the economy, among other things. As it tries to deal with the junta to secure its interests, Beijing is facing renewed anti-China sentiment in Myanmar, as a majority of the people in the country see Chinas engagement as supporting the junta. In addition to protests, some of Chinas major investments, such as twin oil-and-gas pipelines running from the Rakhine coast to southern China, have become targets of choice for some local anti-regime resistance groups. They have repeatedly attacked the juntas security guards at off-take stations along the pipelines as a warning message to Beijing to stay away from the junta. Observers note that such attacks were unheard of during the NLD government. They say China might be happier working with the NLD and its leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, as they had legitimacy and enjoyed popular support, unlike the current regime. When the regime threatened to disband the NLD following the coup in 2021, China intervened, conveying to the juntas leaders a message that it wanted to see the NLD continue to exist as a political party. (The regime finally dissolved the party in March this year.) Its likely that Beijing has approached the regime several times and requested that its officials be allowed to meet with ousted and detained NLD leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, but to no avail. In April, when CPC International Liaison Department Director-General Peng Xiubin visited Myanmar, it is thought that he probably requested a meeting with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and may have been rejected as he tried to reach out to some political parties. So he reached out to Daw Sandar Min, a former NLD official who had made a prison visit to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, to learn about her health, the NLD and her future role, while stressing that Beijing regarded them as good friends. In the meantime, Beijings cautious approach to dealing with the junta remains evident. Apart from being reluctant to host Min Aung Hlaing, Beijing is careful in how it refers to him in official statements. In a press release on the heels of Qins visit, the Chinese Foreign Ministry referred to the junta boss with the vague title Myanmar leader. Min Aung Hlaings official titles, such as military chief, prime minister and chairman of the regimes ruling body, the State Administration Council, are nowhere to be seen in the statement. Clearly, to China, Min Aung Hlaing is a necessary evilsomeone with whom they have no choice but to work, as their interests demand it. Guest Column Imagining Thai Diplomacy Under the Move Forward Party Former ASEAN secretary-general and former Thai foreign minister, the late Surin Pitsuwan, who was seen as a trailblazer of Thailand's liberal foreign policy. / Pattarapong Chatpattarasill With the winners of the recent election headed by the Move Forward Party (MFP) still working to form the next government, it is too early to predict the outcome of the political manoeuvring by its potential coalition partners. If everything goes as planned, it will be the first liberal government in Thai history. Since the end of absolute monarchy in 1932, Thailand has been struggling to establish a strong foundation for a liberal society with democratic norms and values. So far, the efforts have not been successful, leaving Thailand stuck with the label of a half-baked democracy. Government after government has tried to push forward democratization but failed due to political polarization and a deep-rooted patronage system. Speaking to numerous media groups throughout last week, MFP chief Pita Limjaroenrat outlined his foreign policy ideas, which will focus on the Three Rsrevival, rebalancing and recalibrationassuming that he would like to take up both the premiership and foreign minister portfolio. He said his objective is to see Thailand up the ante in external relations. As a young and progressive leader, he believes Thailand should play a proactive role in the international arena, promoting human rights and the rules-based order. He sees Thailand as a middle power that can help shape the new world order. He also said Bangkok must also maintain close cooperation with ASEAN. Most importantly, he said Thailands voice must be heard, vowing not to follow the brand of quiet diplomacy that has been the standard practice for decades. What Mr Pita fluently said in Thai and English is a no-brainer. These were the same old promises, which he has simply repackaged with an enthusiastic spin. Without a doubt, Thai voters decision to go for a party with a progressive agenda will have far-reaching implications for the countrys foreign policy. The question that remains is whether it is truly feasible for Thailand to pursue a truly liberal foreign policy agenda when the rest of mainland Southeast Asia is struggling to remain open and democratic. With its new credentials as a liberal democracy, albeit a still imperfect one, Thailand will be hailed as an example showing that countries that have spent years under military rule can make a successful transition to democracy. The new faces of Thai politics will be welcomed by Western liberal democracies. Given the countrys strategic location at the heart of the Indo-Pacific region, a democratic Thailand will be a huge strategic asset for the United States and its allies. With the US-China rivalry continuing to intensify, Thailands foreign policy outlook will be scrutinised by all great powers. A legitimate Thai government that comes from a free and fair election will be treated with respect in all spheres of engagement abroad. In addition, with Mr Pita as PM, Thailand will join a small but growing club of countries with young leaders at the helm. But truth be told, this is not the first time that Thailand has tried to pursue a progressive agenda. Just a reminder, Mr Pitas articulation of Thailands future foreign policy pathway has been mentioned each time a new government is about to come into office, especially the part about balancing ties with superpowers and forging deeper relations with ASEAN. Let us turn the clock back to 1997, right after the Asian financial turbulence, which is now known as the Tom Yum Kung crisis, when Thailand became infamously known throughout the world for its disastrous financial collapse. The incoming Chuan Leekpai administration had to adopt a progressive foreign policy agenda to woo international support, both politically and economically. At the time, Thailands foreign policy was perceived as pro-West, as many assistance programs and aid were coming from Western countries. However, cordial ties with other great powers such as China, Russia, and India were not affected either. In fact, the Sino-Thai friendship was strengthened due to Beijings decision not to devalue its currency. From 1997-2000, Thailand ranked high in all human rights and democratic-related indexes in the US and Europe. After all, Thailand had just promulgated the popular peoples charter in 1997. Surin Pitsuwan, the versatile foreign minister under the Chuan administration, traveled the world to conduct public diplomacy and show off Thailands new image. He often stressed that liberal norms and values could save Thailands failing economy, personally telling me that no country would want to help dictatorial countries. Lest we forget, in that period, Thailand had one of the most liberal foreign policies in this part of the world. Officials at Saranrom Palace, another name for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, incorporated the promotion of human rights and democratic norms as part of the countrys diplomatic tenets. Obviously, that was the right strategy as Thailand quickly gained recognition and garnered widespread empathy and foreign assistance. However, this approach has gradually eroded over time, as while the ideas were sound, the reality on the ground dictated otherwise. There were drawbacks to the democratic shift. At that time, a sense of unease and anxiety prevailed among Thailands immediate neighbors, who were afraid that the progressive agenda would spread across their bordersthe same way many countries during the Cold War feared they would one-by-one fall to communism like dominoes, as outlined by the popular Domino theory. Thailands democratic shift at that critical moment could have had a similar effect as well. But it did not happen. Within the country, there is a concern in some quarters that a liberal Thailand will side with the US and make China its enemy. That kind of bifurcated view will not become a reality if history is any judge. Obviously, the outcome of the recent election would further increase the regions strategic appeal to America and its allies in the region, especially in the face of a rising China. Once the new government is sworn in, Thailand will officially become a democracy and be invited to join the next round of the Democracy Forum. The Biden administration had ignored Thailand previously as a democratic partner. But since May 2014, Thailand has been trying to shake off its soft brand of autocracy. Until the new government is formed, it is premature to envisage the new contours of Thai foreign policy. Hence, it is likely the current foreign policy as outlined under the 20-year National Strategy will continue as it has served the national interest well given the day-to-day circumstances and constraints. One essential question remains: What will be the next governments biggest foreign policy challenge? The answer will certainly depend on how quickly and adroitly Thailand can rebalance and recalibrate the changing dynamics in the region and the world after nearly three months of domestic dilly-dallying. These days, in the age of multipolarity, there is no grace period for diplomacy. Kavi Chongkittavorn is a veteran journalist reporting on regional affairs. This article first appeared in The Bangkok Post. Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter has been diagnosed with dementia, the Carter family announced through the Carter Center Tuesday. In a written statement, the family did not share details, such as exactly when Rosalynn Carter was diagnosed or what type of dementia she was diagnosed with. But the letter did point out that one in 10 older Americans have this disease, which affects mental health. The prevalence of mental illnesses among Americans is what prompted Rosalynn Carters decades-long crusade for mental health reform from the time she stepped into the role of First Lady of Georgia and extending far beyond President Jimmy Carters term in the White House. During her husbands time as president, Rosalynn Carter helped pass the Mental Health Systems Act of 1980. And in 1982, following her husbands presidential term, the couple founded the Carter Center in Atlanta, which works to broker peace and improve health internationally. For decades, the center has held the Rosalynn Carter Symposium on Mental Health Policy, which has brought together leaders from mental health organizations nationwide to discuss topics such as mental illness among the elderly, funding for mental health services and treating behavioral health the same as physical care. The first ladys work has established her as a leading force in the field of mental health care. The news of Rosalynn Carters diagnosis comes three months after her husband entered at-home hospice care. But the family said in their statement that they hope sharing the news about her condition will help others. We recognize, as she did more than half a century ago, that stigma is often a barrier that keeps individuals and their families from seeking and getting much-needed support. We hope sharing our familys news will increase important conversations at kitchen tables and in doctors offices around the country, the family wrote. The family also said that they will not answer any further questions at this time but said the former first lady is living happily at home in Plains with her husband and enjoying visits from loved ones. Mrs. Carter often noted that there are only four kinds of people in this world: those who have been caregivers; those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers, the Carter family wrote. The universality of caregiving is clear in our family, and we are experiencing the joy and the challenges of this journey. This story was published earlier by the Georgia Recorder, an affiliate of the nonprofit States Newsroom network, which includes the Florida Phoenix. Press Release May 31, 2023 May 31 is World No Tobacco Day Pia shares WHO award with fellow advocates, credits parents for health advocacy Senator Pia S. Cayetano expressed gratitude to those who helped guide her health advocacy, as she received the prestigious World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) Award from the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday. Accepting the award in a ceremony held at the Senate, Cayetano shared that it was her parents - the late Senator 'Companero' Rene Cayetano, and Sandra Schramm Cayetano - who first instilled in her the importance of healthy living. Known for championing the Sin Tax Reform Act and Graphic Health Warning Law, Cayetano recalled that her father would always say three lines to her and her siblings when they were young: "no drugs, no smoking, and no alcohol." "I had the pleasure of growing up in a very healthy environment. Our father lived a very active and healthy lifestyle, and so did my mom. My brothers and I were very much guided by those principles. So it was never difficult for me to take up this cause," she recounted in her acceptance speech. At the same time, Cayetano thanked fellow advocates who guided her in fighting for health reforms and tobacco control measures through the years. Among those she cited were: Dr. Maricar Limpin, director of Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) Philippines; Dr. Yul Dorotheo, executive director of the Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA); Dr. Antonio Dans, professor at the University of Philippines College of Medicine; as well as the policy think-tank, Action for Economic Reforms (AER). "This award was a surprise to me, but I am very happy to accept it among friends who made this opportunity for me to fight for a cause that also became very dear to me," Cayetano noted. "It's an honor, but I consider it a happy burden also that I will carry, as I continue to speak up about what we need to do, what we need to ban, and what we need to regulate, in any opportunity that I get," added the senator, who vowed to continue monitoring compliance with restrictions on sin products, including cigarettes and vapes. Fellow health advocates lauded the senator for the award and her accomplishments. WHO Representative Dr. Rui Paulo de Jesus of Timor Leste, who presented the award to Cayetano, said the recognition was given by the global health agency "in recognition of (the senator's) outstanding contribution to tobacco control." "Cayetano's trailblazing efforts...set an unprecedented benchmark for public health advocates. This award from the WHO is indeed a well-deserved recognition!" noted Dr. Limpin, whose organization, ASH Philippines, nominated the senator for the awards. Dr. Dorotheo, for his part, said: "Congratulations to Senator Pia Cayetano for receiving this year's World No Tobacco Day Award. Much deserved for her contributions to tobacco control and the struggle against the tobacco industry." "Karangalan po namin sa HealthJustice Philippines at civil society organizations na makasama kayo sa iba't ibang adbokasiya ng tobacco control," said the non-government advocacy group, Health Justice. Meanwhile, in a website post, the WHO Western Pacific Regional Office wrote: "The senator's work has focused on preserving the regulatory authority of the Food and Drug Administration and reducing the affordability and accessibility (for youths) of tobacco products." In response, Cayetano said that the challenge to advocates now is to ensure that current policies on smoking and vaping are strictly enforced and constantly reviewed to protect the people, especially the youth. "The future belongs to our youth. And they can only have a future that we carve out for them now. We want to build a strong, healthy foundation for our youth, so that when they become parents, and grandparents, they will do the same," she stressed. To note, Cayetano is the only Filipino and individual chosen by WHO among this year's WNTD recipients in the Western Pacific. Her fellow awardees in the region are all national government agencies, namely: Cambodia's Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport; the Cultural and Social Committee of the National Assembly of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, and Vanuatu's Ministry of Health. Wednesday, Nov 30th, 2022 (10:30 pm) - Score 1,920 The fourth and so far, largest, contract under the Governments new 5bn Project Gigabit broadband rollout scheme worth 108 million has today been awarded to UK ISP Fibrus, which will upgrade broadband for more than 60,000 hard-to-reach homes and businesses across Cumbria (England). At present, Fibrus has already deployed their gigabit-capable Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) network using a mix of commercial build and public investment to 190,000 premises across parts of Northern Ireland and the North of England. After that, the operator has a target of raising this to 500,000 premises by March 2024 (around 350,000 of which will be in Northern Ireland). NOTE: Around 70% of UK premises can already access a gigabit network (c. 40% via just Around 70% of UK premises can already access a gigabit network (c. 40% via just FTTP ). Project Gigabit is technology neutral, so it can be delivered via either full fibre FTTP, Hybrid Fibre Coax (HFC) or fixed wireless access (e.g. 5G ). By comparison, Project Gigabit aims to extend 1Gbps capable (download speeds) networks to reach at least 85% of UK premises by the end of 2025, before hopefully achieving nationwide coverage (c. 99%) by around 2030 (here). Commercial investment is expected to deliver around 80% of this, which leaves the governments scheme to focus on tackling the final 20% (mostly rural and some sub-urban areas), where the private sector alone often fails. The project uses a number of different approaches to tackle the problem (e.g. vouches and investment in dark fibre builds), but the largest part of the scheme involves a gap-funded subsidy approach the Gigabit Infrastructure Subsidy (GIS) programme. This is where smaller local and larger regional contracts are awarded to network operators and ISPs who can help to build their gigabit-capable infrastructure across the final 20%. The Building Digital UK (BDUK) team, which manages Project Gigabit, awarded their first GIS contract to Wessex Internet for North Dorset (Lot 14.01) in August 2022 (here), which was followed by GoFibre picking up the contract for both Teesdale (Lot 4.01) in September 2022 (here) and the one for North Northumberland (Lot 34.01) in October 2022 (here). The Cumbria (Lot 28) project being announced today is a bit different because, unlike those above (they were all smaller Local Supplier contracts), it is the first large-scale Regional Supplier contract and is valued at 108m. Various rural towns, villages and hamlets across the region from Grasmere to Gilsland are expected to benefit, with work starting immediately and the first connections going live during spring 2023. Dominic Kearns, CEO of Fibrus, said: Fibrus considers it a privilege to deliver a transformative project for Cumbria which will change the lives of people living in rural and regional areas. Fibrus is committed to supporting local communities, ensuring any work undertaken in our name supports apprenticeships and allows more people to reap the benefits of full fibre. This win helps us further our mission and commitment to bring fast, reliable and affordable broadband to all. The investment in Cumbria is also expected to spark new apprenticeship and employment opportunities in the county. Fibrus is set to create at least 90 apprenticeships over the next 3 years covering a range of roles from underground and overhead cabling to surveying and invest 50,000 to establish an apprentice training academy near Penrith. The contract award is also notable because it went to Fibrus, rather than a larger player like Openreach (they normally scoop the biggest deals), which appears to bode well for the Governments attempts to support alternative networks at scale. But it probably didnt hurt that Fibrus had also secured and is busy delivering on a similarly large deployment contract under Project Stratum in N.Ireland. More areas including Cornwall, Hampshire, Shropshire & Telford, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk are all in line for Project Gigabit contract awards by summer 2023, with others to follow further down the line. UPDATE 1st Dec 2022 @ 6:54am Fibrus appears to have setup a dedicated page for this contract Hyperfast GB, which includes a very useful coverage map and lots of other details. The operator also appears to be positioning itself to secure other contracts under Project Gigabit, so any future wins will also fall under this site. Wednesday, May 31st, 2023 (12:14 pm) - Score 2,664 The telecoms regulator, Ofcom, has today updated their Network and Information Systems (NIS) guidance by lowering their thresholds, which will require UK Operators of Essential Services (OES) such as top-level domain name registries, DNS providers and internet exchanges (IXP) to inform them of less severe outages. Operators are already required to notify Ofcom of any incident such as an outage that has a significant impact on the continuity of the essential service they provide, which could conceivably affect millions of consumers and businesses, often at a huge cost. But shorter outages, albeit those that can occur on a wider scale, can still be highly disruptive (e.g. 1 hour of downtime due to a DNS-related outage could cost some larger businesses hundreds of thousands of pounds). The regulator noted last year that several recent outages (since 2020) in the Digital Infrastructure subsector were not reported to them, but which were widely reported in the media. While they fell below the previous reporting thresholds, we believe they could have had a significant impact on the continuity of essential services, said Ofcom. The suspicion is that this is probably because the outages often fell below the existing reporting thresholds. Depending upon the event, OES operators might only need to report an outage if it lasts longer than 30 minutes to 1 hour. But the new thresholds change that and require such operators to report outages that last for 15 minutes or longer and which impact 25% or more of the service (volume). However, the London Internet Exchange (LINX) warned that determining the potential UK impact in the event of the failure of one of their operational facilities is difficult and called for Ofcom to conduct more research. Meanwhile, Nominet noted that their DNS services operate with very high levels of inherent redundancy (>99%), thus a reduction in capacity of 25% may well not actually result in a significant service degradation. Today Sunny skies. High 97F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph, becoming SW and increasing to 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible. Tonight Clear skies. Low 63F. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible. Tomorrow Sunny skies. High 92F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Today Mostly sunny with gusty winds developing this afternoon. High 97F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph, becoming WSW and increasing to 20 to 30 mph. Higher wind gusts possible. Tonight Clear skies. Low 63F. Winds WNW at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible. Tomorrow A mainly sunny sky. High 91F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. 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 I appreciate the opportunity to serve you and if I can be of service, I encourage you to contact me at 919-733-5742 or by email at eddie.settle@ncleg.gov. Middle East Monitor ) Supporters of Israel advocating for the controversial International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of anti-Semitism have suffered a major blow in their ongoing effort to shield the apartheid state from criticism, following the release of a strategy document by the White House detailing its plan to combat the rise of anti-Jewish racism. Since at least 2016, anti-Palestinian groups have been clamouring to place the IHRA at the heart and centre of regulatory frameworks, which critics say is designed to police free speech on Israel and Palestine. Yesterday, the US President Joe Biden had his say on the issue and the outcome is far from what advocates of the IHRA had been calling for. Instead of adopting the IHRA as the only definition of anti-Semitism, which hundreds of pro-Israel groups had been advocating for during consultation, its status has been demoted as one of the definitions of anti-Jewish racism alongside others that serve as valuable tools to raise awareness and increase understanding of anti-Semitism. The White Houses strategy for combatting anti-Semitism refers to IHRA as most prominent but also non-legally binding working definition alongside other definitions it welcomes and appreciates. The US Administration also cites the non-controversial Nexus Document as a valid definition of anti-Semitism. Unlike the IHRA, the Nexus Document does not conflate criticism of Israel with anti-Semitism. Interestingly, the IHRA is only mentioned once in the report, alongside other less controversial definitions of anti-Semitism, that do not mention Israel. Article continues after bonus IC video The White House: President Biden Unveils Historic U.S. Government-Lead Plan to Combat Antisemitism. Noticeably, the White House did offer its own definition of anti-Semitism: Anti-Semitism is a stereotypical and negative perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred of Jews said the strategy document, without mentioning Israel once. It is prejudice, bias, hostility, discrimination or violence against Jews for being Jews or Jewish institutions or property for being Jewish or perceived as Jewish. Anti-Semitism can manifest as a form of racial, religious, national origin, and/or ethnic discrimination, bias, or hatred; or, a combination thereof. However, anti-Semitism is not simply a form of prejudice or hate. It is also a pernicious conspiracy theory that often features myths about Jewish power and control. To the disappointed of pro-Israel groups, the White Houses definition does not mention the apartheid state once. Seven of the eleven examples of anti-Semitism in the IHRA conflate criticism of Israel with ant-Jewish racism. Because of this fact, opponents of the IHRA have warned that instead of focusing on how to keep Jews safe, the so called working definition is fixated on shielding Israel from accountability. The Biden administration seems to be implicitly sympathetic to this view. With no mention of Israel in the White Houses own definition of anti-Semitism, there is no other way to interpret the position of the Biden administration other than to view it as a snub to advocates of the IHRA. Having campaigned hard and long to make sure that the IHRA was at the heart and centre of the White Houses strategy to combat anti-Semitism, it was mentioned once and only in passing. The Biden administrations strategy represents the most comprehensive and ambitious US government effort to counter anti-Semitism in American history. To develop this strategy, the White House held listening sessions with more than 1,000 diverse stakeholders across the Jewish community and beyond. These sessions have included Jews from diverse backgrounds and all denominations. The White House also met with Special Envoys who combat anti-Semitism around the globe to learn from their best practices. Bipartisan leaders in Congress and from across civil society, the private sector, technology companies, civil rights leaders, Muslim, Christian and other faith groups, students and educators and countless others were engaged during listening sessions. A bitter row had ensued during the consultation period over the status of the IHRA. Though there is said to have existed a broad consensus that anti-Semitism in America is a crucial problem and must be addressed, some Jewish organisations tried to undermine this effort, according to Hadar Susskind, the President and CEO of Americans for Peace Now. By insisting on the prioritisation of the IHRA above all other issues, Susskind claimed that a number of American Jewish organisations had prioritised shielding Israel from criticism over combatting anti-Semitism. Rather than support this far-reaching plan to truly combat anti-Semitism, there are those in our community who, instead, insist that this plan should be about the IHRA definition, and only the IHRA definition, said Susskind on twitter, while revealing details of the polarisation in the Jewish community over the IHRA. Why are some insisting that the IHRA definition is so unique that it alone is worthy of inclusion in this effort? Susskind asked. Why do those same people insist that the Nexus definition and the Jerusalem Declaration on Anti-Semitism are so unacceptable as tools to combat anti-Semitism? Explaining the difference, Susskind said that the IHRA definition and only the IHRA definition has been weaponised by the Israeli government and those who defend its worst policies and actions. He mentioned how the IHRA definition has been used repeatedly to define anti-Zionism as anti-Semitism and honed into a weapon to shut down criticism of Israeli policy and discourse on Israel-Palestine. J Street, another liberal pro-Israel advocacy group, which had urged the Biden administration not to incorporate the IHRA in its strategy, also welcomed the report. Importantly, the strategy avoids exclusively codifying any one specific, sweeping definition of anti-Semitism as the sole standard for use in enforcing domestic law and policy, recognising that such an approach could do more harm than good said J Street. While some voices have pushed the White House to give the full force of US law to the IHRA Working Definition of Anti-Semitism and its accompanying examples, the Biden Administration rightly cites this definition as just one of a range of illustrative and useful tools in understanding and combating anti-Semitism. J Street went on to add that it was supported by many other advocates in the Jewish community including the definitions original author, Kenneth Stern in warning that the IHRA and examples of anti-Jewish racism cited in the definition have been used to focus attention disproportionately on criticism of Israel and advocacy of Palestinian rights. In refusing to endorse the IHRA as the only definition of anti-Semitism, President Biden has shown that a genuine effort to combat the rise of anti-Jewish racism cannot have a document shielding Israel from accountability at the heart and centre of its strategy. The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor or Informed Comment. Via Middle East Monitor) Reddit Email 26 Shares The lakes have massive energy potential, but harnessing it will be a big challenge Michigan hasnt closed the door on this forever, but (cost concern) puts it down the road a bit. The breakthrough will come with the floating turbine technology. At that point, will the state of Michigan jump in there and look at incentives? I think its possible. James Clift, deputy director with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy Some environmental and labor organizations support the proposal. But at least one group has raised concerns that leasing wind areas to developers would violate the doctrine that the lakes are to be held in trust by the states for public use. Darin, with the Sierra Club, noted that Illinois sees stronger winds over Lake Michigan than on land. Offshore wind farms also can be built closer to the states largest electricity users in the Chicago region. There is much more capacity out there over the lake if we learn from this pilot that it can be done safely and effectively, he said. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering a bill that would establish a lease and royalty system for offshore wind facilities. State Rep. Bob Merski, the bills Democratic sponsor, did not respond to a request for comment. The bill has yet to be heard in committee. Not there yet While some state leaders push to get turbines in the water, others believe such discussions are premature. Michigan has no explicit prohibition on offshore wind, but procurement of electricity in the state goes through a competitive bid process. Without significant state incentives, offshore wind simply cant compete on cost, said James Clift, deputy director with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. He said the state still has much room to develop wind and solar farms on land, and state leaders are confident Michigan can transition to clean electricity even if offshore wind doesnt become viable. Clift said turbines located in nearshore waters also could create conflicts with recreation and tourism, key aspects of Michigans identity. Locating wind farms in deeper waters away from the coast would require floating turbines, which are currently being developed for areas off Maine and the Pacific coast. Michigan hasnt closed the door on this forever, but [cost concern] puts it down the road a bit, he said. The breakthrough will come with the floating turbine technology. At that point, will the state of Michigan jump in there and look at incentives? I think its possible. An assessment published earlier this year by the federal National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that Michigan had far more potential than any other state to produce power from Great Lakes wind an amount many times greater than its annual electricity consumption. But tapping into that wind, for any state, will come with challenges. Walt Musial, principal engineer with the laboratory, said the lakes dont yet have ports or ships that can support deployment of offshore wind. Turbines also would have to be designed to withstand the lakes ice cover in the winter. The question is not just is it a good idea, but is it needed? he said. It certainly seems like theres going to be a challenge [for Great Lakes states] to meet all the decarbonization requirements with just the land-based resources that are available. Theres enough resource out there in the lakes to make a significant contribution in this regard. Still, he said, offshore wind in the lakes is a long way from being commercially viable. The federal analysis produced by Musial and others found that New York had the third-most potential to generate power on the lakes. The state has invested heavily in developing wind power on the Atlantic Ocean, and officials recently spent 18 months exploring the feasibility of placing turbines on Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. But the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority concluded that the state should hit pause on those ambitions. At present, Great Lakes wind does not offer a unique, critical, or cost-effective contribution toward the achievement of New Yorks Climate Act goals, the agency said in a statement summarizing its conclusions. Ohio could go first The first test case for offshore wind in the lakes is the Icebreaker Wind project in Ohio, a six-turbine pilot project planned in Lake Erie off the coast of Cleveland. Last year, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled that state regulators followed the law in granting the projects permit. Backers are now working to line up capital and find a buyer for the wind farms power. We have the legal issues all out of the way to get the windmills into the water, its just going to be a matter of how fast we can move on the business side, said Jade Davis, senior vice president of external affairs for the Port of Cleveland, which has worked closely with the development corporation leading the project. Davis said offshore wind has the potential to revitalize manufacturing in the region. Early projects like Icebreaker could help establish the supply chains and workforce that will bring costs down for future projects, he said. But the plan has also garnered opposition. Lipaj, with the Lake Erie Foundation, accused backers of inflating the job estimates that Icebreaker Wind will create. Those supporters, he said, have touted electricity projections that would require a massive buildout of wind farms beyond the initial six turbines. Theres a lot of opposition from the public for building 1,500 wind turbines in Lake Erie, he said. And [six turbines] isnt going to do anything for the environment. Some groups have tried to stop the project for fear it could harm migratory birds, which was one of the main legal challenges in the lawsuit threatening the permit. But other environmental groups say offshore wind presents fewer ecological risks than onshore renewable development. Theres so much potential space and opportunity presented in responsible development of offshore wind, said Nolan Rutschilling, managing director of energy policy with the nonprofit Ohio Environmental Council. You can really take advantage of the natural environment in a way thats not intrusive or harmful to the lakes or wildlife. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Minera Alamos Inc. (TSXV: MAI) (the "Company" or "Minera Alamos") is pleased to announce the conclusion of discussions with lenders regarding a funding package tailored for the limited capital requirements associated with the planned construction of the Cerro de Oro gold mine that is currently anticipated to begin next year. The Company has signed a termsheet for a US$15 million Loan Facility and US$10 million Royalty that is expected to close on or around July 14th upon signing of definitive documentation as well as board and regulatory approvals. "We are delighted to have entered into this agreement, which provides a fully funded and single source solution to meet the capital expenditure requirements for the Company's planned new gold mine upon the successful receipt of permits. The low capital cost of the Cerro de Oro project has allowed us to consider less covenant heavy terms that provide for increased flexibility in the lead up and during construction of our second mine." Stated Doug Ramshaw, President, Minera Alamos. "In addition, the termsheet provides the ability to draw down a modest portion of the total package ahead of permit receipt that will support the pre-construction activities planned for Cerro de Oro in 2023. This allows our existing treasury to continue to support operational activities elsewhere including the drill campaign currently underway and other corporate initiatives". Key aspects of the financing package are detailed below: Loan Package (US$15 million) Loan Term - 3 years Loan upfront fee - 2% on closing Loan security - comprising share pledges over the Cerro de Oro and La Fortuna operating subsidiaries Interest charged at 1.25% per month on any drawn amount of the loan Interim Funding - US$5 million under the loan facility will be available to draw down immediately following closing to fund pre-permit activities related to the Cerro de Oro mine. The remaining US$10 million will be available upon receipt of construction permits. Royalty Package (US$10 million) 2.75% NSR on all metal production from the Cerro de Oro mine Royalty Buyback - for a period of 30 months post royalty closing, Minera can buy back 2% of the 2.75% NSR by delivering a minimum of 3200 oz of gold related to the NSR and a payment of US$6.3 million. In the event Minera exercises the royalty buyback at an earlier date than the expiry date (30 months from closing), a credit of 100oz of gold per full month will be given against the minimum threshold. The royalty holder will retain the option to sell the remaining 0.75% to Minera for US$3.7 million. Minera and all its operating Subsidiaries will enter into a purchase and sale agreement for a minimum of 100% of its gold production to be sold at market rates for a period of no less than 36 months from closing. Closing remains conditional upon the completion of satisfactory technical due diligence, completion of satisfactory documentation including but not limited to the entering into of the security documents, appropriate legal opinions and any other required conditions that are standard for a facility of this type. Closing is anticipated to take place around July 14th, 2023 at which time the Interim Funding may be drawn with the remaining Loan facility and Royalty Facility available to the Company upon receipt of permits. Operations Update The Company continued to focus on development activities at Santana in Q1 in advance of the transition to mining at the Nicho Main zone. Some early material from the Nicho Main zone has been stacked on the pad and further material from the new and much larger deposit is expected to compliment ounces from the Nicho Norte starter pit through the rest of the year. This initial material mined from the Main zone pit has been successfully utilized for a new battery of crushing system tests and blasting optimization studies, a path that was very productive in the early days of development of the starter pit. The Company will continue to utilize existing pad capacity for increased mining, stacking and leaching activities while waiting for permit amendment approvals that will allow a substantial new area of pad availability for what is anticipated to be a stronger second half of gold production. As the Company prepares to expand its mining activities with its mining contractor, a significant reduction in accounts payable was undertaken in Q1 reducing accounts payable to the lowest level since operations began. Exploration drilling continues at Santana with a first round of holes drilled into the previously identified Benjamin Hill target now logged with assays pending. The Company's drill has been relocated to the Zata target that despite good surface gold grades from several rounds of sampling has never been drilled. The Company is currently on its second drill hole at Zata and more details and results will be available in future corporate updates. Selected Financial Data The following selected financial data is summarized from the Company's unaudited condensed interim consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto (the "Interim Financial Statements') for the three months ended March 31st, 2023, and the Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the three months ended March 31st, 2023 (all numbers in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated). A copy of the Financial Statements and MD&A is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. In accordance with the adoption of the Amendment to International Accounting Standard ("IAS") 16 Property, Plant & Equipment, Proceeds Before Intended Use, the Company is providing revenues and costs of goods sold for the period ending March 31st, 2023. A more thorough explanation of this new accounting rule is outlined in the financial statements (note that the comparable prior year costs of good sold, pursuant to the IFRS accounting rule for their treatment do not factor in depletion). First quarter financials were reflective of the decision to prioritize waste and development activities ( see news releases dated January 31 st , 2023 and May 2 nd , 2023 ). Revenues totalled $6,784,379 with cost of goods sold amounting to $3,954,831 compared to revenues of $5,160,026 with costs of goods sold of $2,255,305 in the corresponding Q1 2022 ( Note: Reflected in the revenues is an accounting of $5,514,069 of deferred revenue from the quarter ending Dec 31 st 2022. A total of $2,460,659 of quarterly revenue from Q1 2023 is treated as deferred revenue and will be accounted for in Q2 2023 financials ). ). Revenues totalled $6,784,379 with cost of goods sold amounting to $3,954,831 compared to revenues of $5,160,026 with costs of goods sold of $2,255,305 in the corresponding Q1 2022 ( ). Net income of $1,485,884 for the quarter amounted to $0.003/share compared to Net income of $1,067,853 or $0.002/share in the corresponding quarter of 2022. Cash and Cash Equivalents totalled $10,200,029 compared to $6,106,610 as of March 31 st 2022 (S13,153,828 at Dec 31 st 2022). 2022 (S13,153,828 at Dec 31 2022). Accounts Payable were reduced year on year by $2,315,849 to $1,623,036 as of March 31 st 2023 ($3,699,024 as of Dec 31 st 2022). 2023 ($3,699,024 as of Dec 31 2022). Working capital totalled $19,890,807 compared to $15,456,020 as of March 31st 2022 ($18,284,236 at Dec 31st 2022). Mr. Darren Koningen, P. Eng., Minera Alamos' CEO, is the Qualified Person responsible for the technical content of this press release under National Instrument 43-101. For Further Information Please Contact: Minera Alamos Inc. Doug Ramshaw, President Victoria Vargas de Szarzynski, VP Investor Relations Tel: 604-600-4423 Tel: 289-242-3599 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Website: www.mineraalamos.com About Minera Alamos Inc. Minera Alamos is a gold production and development Company undergoing the operational startup of its first gold mine that produced its first gold in October 2021. The Company has a portfolio of high-quality Mexican assets, including the 100%-owned Santana open-pit, heap-leach mine in Sonora that is currently going through its operational ramp up. The 100%-owned Cerro de Oro oxide gold project in northern Zacatecas has considerable past drilling and metallurgical work completed with plans to enter the permitting process. The La Fortuna open pit gold project in Durango (100%-owned) has a robust and positive preliminary economic assessment (PEA) completed and the main Federal permits in place. Minera Alamos is built around its operating team that together brought 3 mines into successful production in Mexico over the last 13 years. The Company's strategy is to develop very low capex assets while expanding the projects' resources and continuing to pursue complementary strategic acquisitions. Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release may contain forward-looking information and Minera Alamos cautions readers that forward-looking information is based on certain assumptions and risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations of Minera Alamos included in this news release. This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements", which often, but not always, can be identified by the use of words such as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "estimates", "may", "could", "would", "will", or "plan". These statements are based on information currently available to Minera Alamos and Minera Alamos provides no assurance that actual results will meet management's expectations. Forward-looking statements include estimates and statements with respect to Minera Alamos' future plans with respect to the Projects, objectives or goals, to the effect that Minera Alamos or management expects a stated condition or result to occur and the expected timing for release of a resource and reserve estimate on the projects. Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results relating to, among other things, results of exploration, the economics of processing methods, project development, reclamation and capital costs of Minera Alamos' mineral properties, the ability to complete a preliminary economic assessment which supports the technical and economic viability of mineral production could differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements for many reasons. Minera Alamos' financial condition and prospects could differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements for many reasons such as: an inability to finance and/or complete an updated resource and reserve estimate and a preliminary economic assessment which supports the technical and economic viability of mineral production; changes in general economic conditions and conditions in the financial markets; changes in demand and prices for minerals; litigation, legislative, environmental and other judicial, regulatory, political and competitive developments; technological and operational difficulties encountered in connection with Minera Alamos' activities; and other matters discussed in this news release and in filings made with securities regulators. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of Minera Alamos' forward-looking statements. These and other factors should be considered carefully and readers should not place undue reliance on Minera Alamos' forward-looking statements. Minera Alamos does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by Minera Alamos or on its behalf, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. The Company does not have a feasibility study of mineral reserves, demonstrating economic and technical viability for the Santana project, and, as a result, there may be an increased uncertainty of achieving any particular level of recovery of minerals or the cost of such recovery, including increased risks associated with developing a commercially mineable deposit. Historically, such projects have a much higher risk of economic and technical failure. Failure to commence production would have a material adverse impact on the Company's ability to generate revenue and cash flow to fund operations. 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. J J Minerals Inc. has identified 11 peraluminous rare-element enriched pegmatites and anomaly clusters which have the potential to contain lithium mineralization Anomaly cluster "D" is ~10km along strike, contiguous to and in a similar setting to the only lithium occurrence in the camp, Vision Lithium's property and its Cadillac spodumene occurrences. Renforth will be targeting outcrop identified through satellite imagery, prospecting the exploration targets including the fertile Decelles batholith, and the identified high priority anomalies and pegmatites, for lithium at Surimeau during this summer prospecting season. May 31, 2023 TheNewswire Pickering, Ontario - Renforth Resources Inc. (CSE:RFR) (OTC:RFHRF) (FSE:9RR) (Renforth or the Company) would like to update shareholders on the Company's rare element exploration program at Surimeau. Renforth commissioned J J Minerals Inc. of Sudbury, ON to author "Report on the Interpretation of Lithium Assays on Surimeau Property, Malartic, Quebec, Canada" in order to aid Renforth in planning the summer 2023 prospecting season for lithium at our wholly owned, and underexplored, ~330 sq. km. Surimeau property. Renforth conducted grab sampling and mapping on the Surimeau Property May to July 2022. A total of 229 samples were described and sent for assay. This mapping and sampling program focused on the southern part of the Surimeau property along the metasedimentary and Decelles Reservoir Batholith contact. Eleven Anomalies (A to K) were identified based on elevated Li, Rb, Cs, Be, Nb, Ta and Sn contents within the assayed samples (Figure 1). In addition, a review of MERN's outcrop mapping was undertaken, focused on the northern metasedimentary-Decelles Reservoir Batholith contact area from Vision's Cadillac spodumene pegmatites, along the contact to the southeast edge of the Surimeau property. Of the eleven rare-element anomalies identified by J J Minerals, Anomaly clusters A and D have the most potential to host lithium mineralization and are recommended for stripping. Anomaly Cluster A has a 150 m strike length trending northwest-southeast with increasing Li, Be, Nb and Ta contents increasing from the NW to SE based on 11 assayed grab samples collected by Renforth. The pegmatitic granite samples are enriched in rare-elements and contain coarse-grained muscovite and tourmaline clots which are indicator minerals for lithium pegmatites. Anomaly A is located within metasedimentary rocks about 0.5 km north of the contact with the Decelles Reservoir Batholith. The NW-SE trend of Anomaly A is the same orientation as Vision Lithiums Cadillac spodumene dykes. Anomaly Cluster D has a 440 m strike length trending east-west. The pegmatitic granites enriched in Rb, Be, Nb and Ta consistently contain coarse-grained muscovite based on 8 assayed grab samples collected by Renforth. The rare-element enrichment and the presence of coarse-grained muscovite are indicators for lithium pegmatites. Cluster D plots within the Decelles Reservoir Batholith which is the same setting as Vision Lithiums Cadillac spodumene pegmatites. Based on a review of Renforth and MERN sampling data sets, J J Minerals identified three exploration targets on the property: Within 1 km of the contact between the metasedimentary rocks and the Decelles Reservoir Batholith on both sides of the contact. The biotite granite bodies north of the metasedimentary-Decelles Reservoir Batholith contact. Anomalies E and J occur in the metasedimentary rocks and granitic batholith rocks, respectively, both are near diabase dykes. The diabase dykes are regional deep-seated structures that could act as pegmatitic fluid pathways. The orientation of the Cadillac spodumene pegmatite dykes are NW-SE which is the same orientation as the regional diabase dykes. Follow up recommendations include stripping two of the Anomaly Clusters A and D and exploring unexplored target areas on the property. "This report, authored by rare element pegmatite experts, demonstrates that there is lithium potential at Surimeau, which we will explore. Lithium is another facet to Surimeau, adding to our ~29km of magnetic structures bearing nickel polymetallic mineralization and our copper discovery in the north of the ~330 sq. km property. We look forward to learning more about lithium on our property with our work this summer" states Nicole Brewster, President and CEO of Renforth. The prospective metasedimentary/batholith contact, which forms the bottom portion of the Surimeau property, is approximately 24km in length, with limited exploration historically and by Renforth using logging road access over approximately 16km of the strike length, the balance is unexplored (Figure 2). A review of satellite imagery for the unexplored areas provides targets for pegmatite prospecting. Renforth will have a field crew deployed in early June to commence prospecting and mapping both the 11 identified anomalies and the unexplored target area pegmatites. Figure 1. Rare-element anomaly for Surimeau Property. Figure 2. Descelles Batholith boundary and Renforth sample locations. Technical disclosure in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Francis R. Newton PGeo, OGQ a qualified person pursuant to NI 43-101. For further information please contact: Renforth Resources Inc. Nicole Brewster President and Chief Executive Officer C:416-818-1393 E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. #Unit 1B 955 Brock Road, Pickering ON L1W 2X9 About Renforth Renforth is a secure multi-commodity area play with the dominant brownfield land position south of the world class Cadillac-Larder Lake Fault ("CLLF") in the prolific Cadillac and Malartic mining camps of Quebec's Abitibi. Offering exposure to gold, zinc, nickel, copper, cobalt and more, including lithium Renforth's land position encompasses several areas of interest. In the more than 300 square kilometres Renforth holds, there are both resources and mineralized ground undergoing exploration to extend zones and define the amount of metal in structures. Renforth's position is unique in that the ground is road accessible, has hydro power in place and is in an established and secure mining jurisdiction which regularly ranks as Top 10 (as determined by the Fraser Institute) in the world. The CLLF, which extends from west of Kirkland Lake in Ontario to east of Val d'Or in Quebec is a regional first order fault which hosts numerous mines along its extent, including one of Canada's most lucrative gold mines, the know historic O'Brien Mine which formed the Cadillac Mining Camp, and Renforth's Parbec gold deposit near Malartic. Now, immediately north of Renforth's landholdings is one of the few instances of the CLLF being mined on its north side with North America's deepest single stage shaft, the Penna shaft, at Agnico Eagle's LaRonde Mine. Renforth holds the dominant land position in the Cadillac Camp south of the fault, and a good portion of the land position in the Malartic camp as well, contiguous to one of the few mines operating on the south side of the Cadillac Break, the Canadian Malartic Mine. Renforth's landholdings in the area host gold and silver as well as a host of future facing, or battery, metals such as nickel, copper, zinc, cobalt and lithium. No securities regulatory authority has approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and information under applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward looking. Forward-looking statements are frequently identified by such words as may, will, plan, expect, believe, anticipate, estimate, intend and similar words referring to future events and results. Such statements and information are based on the current opinions and expectations of management. All forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and subject to a variety of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, including the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, fluctuating commodity prices, the risks of obtaining necessary approvals, licenses and permits and the availability of financing, as described in more detail in the Companys securities filings available at www.sedar.com. Actual events or results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements and the reader is cautioned against placing undue reliance thereon. Forward-looking information speaks only as of the date on which it is provided and the Company assumes no obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements except as required by applicable law. Q1 Production of 13,951 Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO") Q1 Adjusted EBITDA of $8.2 million and operating cash flow of $17.3 million Q1 AISC of $1,145 per ounce (All numbers reported in US dollars) TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Cerrado Gold Inc. (TSX.V:CERT)(OTCQX:CRDOF) ("Cerrado" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the operational and financial results for the first quarter 2023 ("Q1/23") at its Minera Don Nicolas ("MDN") gold project in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina and report on its ongoing activities at the Monte Do Carmo gold project ("MDC") in Brazil. Production results at MDN were previously released on April 24, 2023. The Company's quarterly financial results are reported and available on SEDAR as well as on the Company's website (www.cerradogold.com). Q1 2023 Minera Don Nicolas ("MDN") Operational Highlights: Gold production of 13,951 GEO in Q1/23, a 3% improvement year-on-year ("yoy") Operating margin of $6.8 million and operating cash flows of $17.3 million in the first quarter AISC of $1,145 per ounce during Q1/23 Mark Brennan, CEO and Chairman, stated: "These results demonstrate another solid quarter of production and operating performance from the team at MDN. We are now looking forward to the next stage of growth at MDN from the ramp up of our initial heap leach project at Las Calandrias which is on schedule for first gold production in June. In addition, work to complete the feasibility study at the Monte Do Carmo project in Brazil is progressing well, with completion expected in June. We expect the feasibility study to demonstrate the significant value of MDC as well as highlight the robust growth profile we expect to see in the coming years." First Quarter 2023 Operational and Financial Performance Q1/23 and Full Year Operational Highlights Minera Don Nicolas The Company produced 13,951 GEO during the three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to 13,388 GEO in the three months ended March 31, 2022. Production was 3% higher in the three months ended March 31, 2023, due to higher recoveries. The average quarterly gold head grade of 4.59 g/t recorded in the first quarter of 2023 represents a 2% decrease as compared to the average head grade of 4.68 g/t in the first quarter of 2022. Gold recovery of 92% represents a 4% increase in recovery as compared to 88% recorded in the first quarter of 2022. Silver recovery of 67% was also 4% higher than the silver recovery achieved in the first quarter of 2022. During Q1/2023, the team continued exploration efforts to advance several green and brownfield targets with the aim of increasing mine life and expanding the overall resource endowment, while continuing to support the move to underground mining at Paloma. Las Calandrias Project During Q1/2023, work on the engineering and construction of the Las Calandrias heap leach project was completed and placement of ore on to the pad commenced in April 2023. The first gold production is expected in June 2023. The Calandrias Heap Leach is expected to add incremental production to MDN commencing in 2023 and is the first step in Cerrado's plans for growing production capacity in Argentina in the near term. All Argentinian projects continue to be funded by cash flow and local debt facilities. Monte Do Carmo Project, Brazil During Q1/2023, the Company, together with its numerous advisors, continued to progress the completion of a bankable feasibility study ("FS") expected by the end of June 2023. In addition, regional exploration continues on the greater project area aimed at growing the known resources and extending the potential mine life. During the quarter, the exploration focus has been on the Northern extension of the Serra Alta deposit and to the north of Gogo, as well as on generating more greenfield targets such as Divisa for ongoing development. The Preliminary License ("LP") was issued from the Instituto Natureza do Tocantins ("NATURATINS") on May 29, 2023 and the License of Installation/Construction ("LI") is expected to follow within 90 -120 days of the LP issuance. Q1/2023 Financial Highlights The Company generated revenue of $27.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, from the sale of 16,255 GEO at an average realized price per gold ounce sold of $1,696 and price per silver ounce sold of $22.83. For the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company generated revenue of $27.4 million from the sale of 15,044 GEO. Revenue from sales of gold and silver for the current period was slightly higher than the three months ended March 31, 2022, due to the higher number of ounces sold, offset by the lower realized price in the current period due to a one-time deferred revenue adjustment of $2.4 million recorded in Q1/2023. Revenue for the quarter without the deferred revenue adjustment was $29.9 million. Cash costs per ounce sold were $1,139 per ounce in the three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to cash costs per ounce sold of $1,049 per ounce in the three months ended March 31, 2022, a 9% increase. The 9% increase is a result of higher consumables and material costs compared to the first quarter of 2022. Cash provided by operating activities during the first quarter ended March 31, 2023, was $17.3 million compared to cash provided by operating activities of $8.8 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2022. Cash provided by operating activities before working capital changes in 2023 consisted of $12.6 million as compared to $6.6 million of cash provided by operating activities before working capital changes in 2022. Adjusted EBITDA was $8.2 million in the first quarter of 2023 as compared to $9.7 million in the first quarter of 2022. Current year adjusted EBITDA was slightly lower due to higher production and general and administrative costs, offset by higher cash sales in Q1/2023. Net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2023 was $7.4 million, as compared to a $3.4 million net income for the three months ended March 31, 2022, a difference of $10 million. The decrease in net income is primarily a result of an increase in tax expense of $2 million, a non-cash remeasurement loss on the secured notes and stream of $2.6 million, an increase in finance expense of $2.2 million and an increase in general and administrative expenses of $1.6 million recorded in the first quarter of 2023 as compared to the first quarter of 2022. Basic and diluted loss per share for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was $0.09, compared to the basic and diluted earnings per share of $0.04 for the three months ended March 31, 2023, a $0.13 per share decrease as a result of higher taxes, remeasurement loss on the secured notes and stream obligation and higher general and administrative costs. Mark Brennan Mike McAllister CEO and Chairman Vice President, Investor Relations Tel: +1-647-796-0023 Tel: +1-647-805-5662 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. About Cerrado Gold Cerrado is a Toronto based gold production, development and exploration company focused on gold projects in the Americas. The Company is the 100% owner of both the producing Minera Don Nicolas mine in Santa Cruz province, Argentina, and the highly prospective development project, Monte do Carmo located in Tocantins State, Brazil. Disclaimer NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation, all statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect ", "is expected ", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding the business and operations of Cerrado. In making the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, Cerrado has made certain assumptions, including, but not limited to the expected timing of commencement of gold production at Las Calandrias, the expectations of 2023 results as well as timing of completion of the FS and permitting milestones at the MDC project. Although Cerrado believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, Cerrado disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zacatecas Silver Corp. (Zacatecas Silver or the Company, ZAC:TSX Venture; ZCTSF: OTC Markets; 7TV: Frankfurt) is pleased to announce an increase to its Inferred silver Mineral Resource Estimate at the Panuco South and North Deposits within the Zacatecas Property. The Updated Mineral Resource Estimate was prepared by P&E Mining Consultants Inc. (P&E) for Zacatecas Silver. P&E prepared the initial Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate that was a disclosed in the Technical Report dated January 28, 2022 titled Independent NI 43-101 Technical Report, Zacatecas Properties, Zacatecas State, Mexico, filed on SEDAR on January 28, 2022. Highlights: Updated silver Inferred Mineral Resource now consists of: Panuco South Deposit Inferred Mineral Resource of 3.04 million tonnes at 179 g/t AgEq for 17.5 million ounces AgEq. Panuco North Deposit Inferred Mineral Resource of 0.37 million tonnes at 255 g/t AgEq for 3.0 million ounces AgEq Silver Inferred Mineral Resources have increased by 25% compared to previous MRE completed in December 2021. Zacatecas plans to restart drilling at El Cristo vein system with a goal of increasing silver resources at the Zacatecas Properties. Dr. Christopher Wilson, Chief Operating Officer and director of Zacatecas Silver comments, The most recent drilling carried out, with assay results previously released, was a focused drill program intercepting numerous strong silver grades near surface and at depth. The along strike and down dip extensions of Panuco South and Panuco North remain open to depth and continue to represent excellent targets for further near-surface and deep drilling. The Panuco South and North underground Mineral Resource Estimate now consists of 3.41 million tonnes at 187 g/t AgEq (173 g/t Ag and 0.18 g/t Au) for 20.5 million ounces AgEq (19.0 million ounces silver and 19.2 thousand ounces gold) that is comprised of the following: Table 1: Panuco South and North Underground Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate Summary (1-8) Resource Area Tonnes (Mt) Ag (g/t) Au (g/t) Ag (Moz) Au (koz) AgEq (g/t) AgEq (Moz) Panuco South 3.04 236 0.24 2.8 2.7 255 3.0 Panuco North 0.37 166 0.17 16.2 16.4 179 17.5 Total 3.41 173 0.18 19.0 19.2 187 20.5 Notes: (1) Mineral Resources, which are not Mineral Reserves, do not have demonstrated economic viability. (2) The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental permitting, legal title, taxation, socio-political, marketing or other relevant issues. (3) Resources are classified according to Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Definition Standards (2014) and CIM Best Practices (2019); (4) The Inferred Mineral Resource in this estimate has a lower level of confidence than that applied to an Indicated Mineral Resource and must not be converted to a Mineral Reserve. It is reasonably expected that the majority of the Inferred Mineral Resource could be upgraded to an Indicated Mineral Resource with continued exploration. (5) Silver equivalent Mineral Resources for the Panuco South and North Deposits were calculated using the following metal prices: Ag at US $22.50/oz and Au at US$1,700/oz. (6) Metallurgical recoveries have been estimated to be 85% silver and 90% gold. (7) The underground Mineral Resource Estimate uses a cut-off of 120 g/t AgEq, based on US$/tonne costs of $45/mining, $20 processing and $10 G&A. (8) AgEq = Ag g/t + (Au g/t x 80) Mineral Resource Estimate Assumptions The Mineral Resource Estimate was generated using inverse distance cubed for gold and silver for grade interpolation within a 3-D block model, constrained by mineralized zones defined by wireframes solid models. The bulk density value of 2.8 t/m3 used in the Mineral Resource Estimate were derived from a regression equation based on data measured from samples collected from re-assayed drill core completed by Zacatecas Silver. The database for the Mineral Resource Estimate consisted of 138 drill holes totalling 30,684 m, and 183 trenches totalling 4,540 m, of which a total of 108 drill holes totalling 22,467 m and 113 trenches totalling 3,000 m intersected the mineralization wireframes used for the Mineral Resource Estimate. The drill hole database contained assays for silver and gold as well as other metals of no economic importance. Zacatacas Silvers seasoned exploration team carried out extensive data verification on the historical database by re-sampling 178 historical sample intervals, which added to the 243 new mineralized samples making a total of approximately 50% verified constrained sample intervals in the Mineral Resource Estimate. Qualified Person The contents of this news release have been reviewed and approved by Chris Wilson, B.Sc. (Hons), PhD, FAusIMM (CP), FSEG, FGS, Chief Operating Officer of Zacatecas Silver, and by Eugene Puritch, P.Eng, FEC, CET, President of P&E Mining Consultants Inc., who is independent of the Company. Dr. Wilson and Mr. Puritch are Qualified Persons as defined by NI 43-101. Dr. Wilson is the Qualified Person for all technical information in this news release, excluding the Mineral Resource Estimate. About Zacatecas Silver Corp. The Company has two key projects. The Esperanza Gold Project in Morelos State, Mexico and the Zacatecas Silver Project in Zacatecas State, Mexico. Esperanza is an advanced stage, attractive low-cost, low-capital-intensity and low-technical-risk growth project located in Morelos state, Mexico. Alamos has progressed the project through advanced engineering, including metallurgical work, while also focusing on stakeholder engagement, including building community relations. The Company announced a Mineral Resource Estimate at Esperanza consisting of a Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource Estimate of 30.5 million tonnes at 0.97 g/t AuEq for 956 thousand ounces AuEq and an Inferred Mineral Resource estimate of 8.7 million tonnes at 0.98 g/t AuEq for 277 thousand ounces AuEq (see news release dated November 16, 2022). The Zacatecas Silver Project is located in Zacatecas state, Mexico, within the highly prospective Fresnillo silver belt, which has produced over 6.2 billion ounces of silver. The Company holds 7,826 hectares (19,338 acres) of ground that is highly prospective for low-sulphidation and intermediate-sulphidation silver base metal mineralization and potentially low-sulphidation gold-dominant mineralization. Previous to this press release, the Company announced a Mineral Resource Estimate at the Panuco Deposit consisting of 2.7 million tonnes at 187 grams per tonne (g/t) silver equivalent (AgEq) (171 g/t silver (Ag) and 0.17 g/t gold (Au)) for 16.4 million ounces AgEq (15 million ounces silver and 15,000 ounces gold) (see news release dated December 14, 2021). The Property is 25 kilometres (km) southeast of MAG Silver Corp.'s Juanicipio Mine and Fresnillo PLC's Fresnillo Mine. The Property shares common boundaries with Pan American Silver Corp. claims and El Orito, which is owned by Endeavour Silver. On behalf of the Company Bryan Slusarchuk Chief Executive Officer and Director Forward-Looking Statements Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect managements current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. Zacatecas Silver cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by many material factors, many of which are beyond their respective control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to Zacatecas Silvers limited operating history, its proposed exploration and development activities on its mineral properties and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, Zacatecas Silver does not undertake to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For further information: Adam Ross, Investor Relations, Direct: (604) 229-9445, Toll Free: 1(833) 923-3334, Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Fathom Nickel Inc. (CSE: FNI) (FSE: 6Q5) (OTCQB: FNICF) (the "Company" or "Fathom") is pleased to announce that it has closed the first tranche of its upsized non-brokered offering of flow-through units and non flow-though units (the "Upsized Offering"), previously announced on May 8, 2023. Pursuant to the Upsized Offering the Company issued 5,266,000 flow-through common units (the "FT Units") at a price per FT Unit of $0.155 (the "FT Price") for gross proceeds of $816,230, and 4,742,000 non-flow through Units (the "NFT Units") at a price per NFT Unit of $0.135 (the "NFT Price") for gross proceeds of $640,170. Combined gross proceeds of the Upsized Offering was $1,456,400. The second tranche of the Upsized Offering, comprised of $1,500,000 charity flow-through units, is expected to close on or about June 7. Each NFT Unit consists of one Common Share (a "Hard Dollar Share") and one transferable Common Share purchase warrant (a "Warrant") that shall be exercisable into one Common Share ("Hard Dollar Warrant Share") for a period of 24 months from issuance at an exercise price of C$0.20. Each FT Unit consists of one flow-through Common Share (a "FT Share") and one-half of a transferable Common Share purchase warrant (the "FT Unit Warrant"), with one whole Unit Warrant exercisable into a Warrant Share for 24 months from issuance at an exercise price of C$0.23. The combined 10,008,000 Hard Dollar and FT shares issued were issued in accordance with the accredited investor exemption under National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions and are subject to a resale restriction of four months and one day from the date of distribution. The gross proceeds of the flow-through portion of the Upsized Offering 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 Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Qualifying Expenditures") related to the Company's Albert Lake Project and the Gochager Lake Project which are located in Saskatchewan, Canada on or before December 31, 2024. All Qualifying Expenditures will be renounced in favour of the subscribers effective December 31, 2023. The net proceeds of the Upsized Offering from the NFT Units will be used for exploration and development of the Company's mineral projects and for working capital and general corporate purposes. As consideration for services in connection with the Upsized Offering, the Company has paid to certain qualified ("Finders") a cash commission of $63,945 and 439,800 broker warrants ("Broker Warrants"). Each Broker Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one common share of the Company at the offering price for a period of 36 months from the Closing Date. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. About Fathom Nickel Inc. Fathom is an exploration company that is targeting magmatic nickel sulphide discoveries to support the rapidly growing global electric vehicle market. The Company has a portfolio of two high-quality exploration projects located in the prolific Trans Hudson Corridor in Saskatchewan: 1) the Albert Lake Project, a 90,000+ hectare project that was host to the historic and past producing Rottenstone deposit (produced high-grade Ni-Cu+PGE, 1965-1969), and 2) the Gochager Lake Project, a 19,560-hectare project that is host to a historic, open-pitable resource consisting of 4.3M tons at 0.295% Ni and 0.081% Cu1. 1 - The Saskatchewan Mineral Deposit Index (SMID#0880) reports drill indicated reserves of 4,262,400 tons grading 0.295% Ni and 0.081% Cu mineable by open pit. Fathom cannot confirm the resource estimate nor the parameters and methods used to prepare the reserve estimate. The estimate is not considered NI43-101 compliant and further work is required to verify this historical drill indicated reserve. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD "Doug Porter" President and CFO, Director For further information, please contact: Doug Porter, President and CFO 1-403-870-4349 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Or Ian Fraser, Chief Executive Officer and Vice-President, Exploration 1-403-650-9760 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" that are based on expectations, estimates, projections and interpretations as at the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "seek", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "suggest", "indicate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur, and include, without limitation, statements regarding the Company incurring and renunciation of Qualifying Expenditures. 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 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 mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward- looking statements 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. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 30, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cosa Resources Corp. (CSE: COSA) (Cosa Resources or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Haywood Securities Inc. (Haywood or the Agent) who has agreed to sell, on a commercially reasonable efforts private placement basis, 2,857,200 hard dollar units of the Company (the Hard Dollar Units) at a price of C$0.35 per Hard Dollar Unit (the Hard Dollar Issue Price), and 7,767,000 charity flow-through units of the Company (the Charity FT Units, and together with the Hard Dollar Units, the Units) at a price of C$0.515 per Charity FT Unit (the Charity FT Issue Price), for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of C$5,000,025 (collectively, the Offering). Each Hard Dollar Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (a Share) plus one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole such warrant, a Warrant). Each Charity FT Unit will consist of one Share of the Company that qualifies as a flow-through common share within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) plus one-half of one Warrant. Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one Share (a Warrant Share) at an exercise price of C$0.50 for 24 months following the completion of the Offering. In addition, the Company has agreed to grant the Agent an option (the Over-Allotment Option), exercisable in whole or in part by Haywood, at any time up to 48 hours prior to the Closing Date (as defined below), to sell up to an additional number of Units, in any combination of Hard Dollar Units and/or Charity FT Units, equal to 15% of the total Units issuable pursuant to the Offering at the respective issue prices above. The Company understands that purchasers of the Charity FT Units may immediately resell or donate some or all of the Charity FT Units to registered charities, who may sell such units (the Resale Units) concurrent with closing of the Offering to purchasers arranged by the Agent at a price per Resale Unit equal to the Hard Dollar Issue Price. The gross proceeds from the sale of Charity FT Units will be used by the Company to incur eligible Canadian exploration expenses that qualify as flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures as such terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the Qualifying Expenditures) related to the Companys uranium projects in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, on or before December 31, 2024. All Qualifying Expenditures will be renounced in favour of the subscribers of the Charity FT Units effective December 31, 2023. The net proceeds from the sale of Hard Dollar Units will be used to fund exploration and for additional working capital purposes. The Units will be offered to purchasers pursuant National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions in all of the provinces of Canada, except Quebec, and/or in other jurisdictions as agreed to between the Company and the Agent. The Units will be subject to the statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. The Offering is expected to close on or about June 21, 2023 (the Closing Date). The Company will pay to the Agent a cash commission of 6.0% of the gross proceeds raised in respect of the Offering, other than in respect of up to a maximum of C$500,000 worth of Units issued to certain purchasers on a presidents list to be agreed upon by the Company and the Agent (the Presidents List), in which case the commission in respect of such issuance shall be equal to 3.0%. In addition, the Company will issue to the Agent compensation options, exercisable for a period of 24 months following the Closing Date, to acquire in aggregate that number of Shares which is equal to 6.0% of the number of Units sold under the Offering at an exercise price of C$0.35 per Share, other than in respect of Units issued to purchasers on the Presidents List, in which case the Company will not issue any compensation options. About Cosa Resources Cosa Resources is a Canadian mineral exploration company based in Vancouver, BC and is focused on the exploration of its uranium and copper properties in northern Saskatchewan. The portfolio includes six uranium exploration properties: Ursa, Orion, Castor, Charcoal, Helios, and Astro, totaling 140,677 ha in the eastern and northern Athabasca Basin. The team behind Cosa Resources has a track record of success in Saskatchewan, with several decades of combined experience in uranium exploration, discovery, and development in the province. For further information on Cosa Resources, please contact: Keith Bodnarchuk, President & CEO Tel: +1 888-899-2672 (COSA) Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Website: www.cosaresources.ca Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Information This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, identified by words or phrases such as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "is expected", "scheduled", "estimates", "pending", "intends", "plans", "forecasts", "targets", or "hopes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "will", "should" "might", "will be taken", or "occur" and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information herein includes, but is not limited to, statements that address activities, events or developments that Cosa Resources expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future including the closing date of the Offering, proposed use of proceeds of the Offering and the tax treatment of the Charity FT Units. Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information relating to any future mineral production, liquidity, enhanced value and capital markets profile of the Company, future growth potential for the Company and its business, and future exploration plans are based on managements reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on managements experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of metals; no escalation in the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; the Companys ability to operate in a safe and effective manner. These statements reflect the Companys respective current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of other assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management, 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 or forward-looking information and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the future tax treatment of the Charity FT Units, competitive risks and the availability of financing; precious metals price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Company's mining activities; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company's management team and outside contractors; the Company's inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; the ability of the communities in which the Company operates to manage and cope with the implications of COVID-19; the economic and financial implications of COVID-19 to the Company; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company's interactions with surrounding communities; the speculative nature of exploration and development; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; litigation risk; and the factors identified in the Companys public disclosure documents. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law. TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Lahontan Gold Corp (TSXV:LG)(OTCQB:LGCXF) (the "Company" or "Lahontan") is pleased to announce that it has acquired an additional 794 hectares of mineral rights at its West Santa Fe Project, located only 15 km West of Lahontan's Flagship asset, the Santa Fe Mine, in Nevada's prolific Walker Lane. West Santa Fe now covers a of total 19.7 km2, the new mineral rights were acquired by low-cost staking of 95 unpatented lode mining claims by Lahontan's technical and management team. Kimberly Ann, Lahontan Founder, CEO, President, and Director commented: "Our geologic team studied the data we acquired by optioning the West Santa Fe Project and concluded that there is room for significant resource expansion outside the previously existing claim group. The new unpatented mining claims also cover areas that could be used for potential future mining infrastructure such as heap-leach pads and waste rock dumps. Lahontan's land holdings in Nevada now total 57 km2, giving the Company a dominant land position in the Walker Lane." New unpatented lode mining claims (DORA 1-95), West Santa Fe Project, Nevada West Santa Fe hosts an oxidized gold-silver mineralized system in a geologic setting similar to the Santa Fe Mine. Previous exploration drilling at West Santa Fe totals over 13,000 metres in 171 drill holes; only five holes are deeper than 165 metres. Preliminary modeling of historical drill hole data by Lahontan geologists outlines a shallow gold and silver system with a sufficient volume to host 0.5 to 1.0M ounces of oxidized gold and silver mineralization in an open-pit mining configuration1. The new unpatented mining claims will be subject to the same 1.5% NSR Royalty terms outlined in the previously announced Binding Term Sheet and option agreement for West Santa Fe, including the low-cost buydown provision (please see Lahontan Gold press release dated May 15, 2023 for more details on the NSR royalty). Qualified Persons Review The technical and scientific information contained within this news release have been reviewed and approved by Quentin J. Browne, MSc., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 policy. The Qualified Person has not completed sufficient work to verify the historical information on West Santa Fe, the Company believes the historical resource estimates to be both relevant and reliable. The information provides an indication of the exploration potential of West Santa Fe but may not be representative of expected results. About Lahontan Gold Corp. Lahontan Gold Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company that holds, through its US subsidiaries, three top-tier gold and silver exploration properties in the Walker Lane of mining friendly Nevada. Lahontan's flagship property, the 19 km2 Santa Fe Mine, had past production of 345,000 ounces of gold and 711,000 ounces of silver between 1988 and 1995 from open pit mines utilizing heap-leach processing (Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, 1995). The Santa Fe Mine has an Indicated Mineral Resource of 1,112,000 oz Au Eq (grading 1.14 g/t Au Eq) and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 544,000 oz Au Eq (grading 1.00 g/t Au Eq), all pit constrained (Au Eq is inclusive of recovery, please see Santa Fe Project Technical Report*). The Company will continue to aggressively explore Santa Fe during 2023 and begin the process of evaluating development scenarios to bring the Santa Fe Mine back into production. Quentin J. Browne, P.Geo., Consulting Geologist to Lahontan Gold Corp., is the Qualified Person for the Company and approved the technical content of this news release. For more information, please visit our website: www.lahontangoldcorp.com * Please see the Santa Fe Project Technical Report, Authors: Trevor Rabb and Darcy Baker, P. Geos. Effective Date: December 7, 2022, Report Date: March 2, 2023. The Technical Report is available on the Company's website and SEDAR. On behalf of the Board of Directors Kimberly Ann Founder, CEO, President, and Director FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Lahontan Gold Corp. Kimberly Ann Founder, Chief Executive Officer, President, Director Phone: 1-530-414-4400 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Website: www.lahontangoldcorp.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements 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. Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a varietyof risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the TSXV. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties that could affect financial results is contained in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com 1 The exploration target at West Santa Fe is conceptual in nature and is based on the size of the known mineralized zones, and gold and silver grades from historical drilling. The qualified person has not completed sufficient work to verify the historical information on West Santa Fe and this information should not be relied on. 1,126 g/t AgEq over 50.0m including 7.8m of 6,334 g/t AgEq including 0.8m of 46,822 g/t AgEq HALIFAX, NS, May 31, 2023 /CNW/ - GoGold Resources Inc. (TSX: GGD) (OTCQX: GLGDF) ("GoGold", "the Company") is pleased to announce additional drilling results from Los Ricos South, within the Eagle Deposit, including an exceptionally wide, high-grade intercept from hole LRGAG-22-165. The hole intercepted 50.0m of 1,126 g/t silver equivalent ("AgEq"), including 7.8m of 6,334 g/t AgEq which also included a very high-grade interval of 46,822 g/t AgEq over 0.8m. This is one of the best holes drilled to date within the Los Ricos district. See Table 1 for breakdown of silver and gold values. "We continue to intercept wide zones of high grades at the Los Ricos South Eagle deposit. We anticipate that results like these will could add significantly to our upcoming revised resource and preliminary economic assessment to be completed this summer," said Brad Langille, President and CEO. "We continue to execute on the objectives that we laid out for 2023 in our January press release. The next milestones will be our updated resource and preliminary economic assessment in Los Ricos South to be followed by a pre-feasibility study to be completed before year end." Table 1: Drill Hole Intersections Hole ID Area / Vein From To Length1 Au Ag AuEq2 AgEq2 (m) (m) (m) (g/t) (g/t) (g/t) (g/t) LRGAG-22-163 Eagle 117.5 132.5 15.0 0.78 92.3 2.01 150.5 including 125.9 129.7 3.8 1.40 200.3 4.07 305.5 LRGAG-22-164 Eagle 199.0 221.1 22.1 3.21 32.6 3.64 273.0 including 214.3 217.5 3.2 20.21 86.8 21.37 1,602.9 LRGAG-22-165 Eagle 110.9 160.9 50.0 4.61 780.2 15.01 1,125.9 including 117.7 125.5 7.8 22.90 4,616.9 84.45 6,334.1 including 119.6 122.5 2.9 59.98 11,858.2 218.09 16,357.0 including 121.8 122.5 0.8 201.00 31,747.0 624.29 46,822.0 LRGAG-22-166 Eagle 118.7 127.8 9.1 3.08 199.5 5.75 430.9 including 119.2 120.6 1.3 8.12 609.9 16.25 1,219.1 and 141.5 151.6 10.1 2.32 114.6 3.85 288.9 LRGAG-22-167 Eagle 135.3 150.8 15.5 2.16 102.3 3.53 264.6 including 139.0 139.8 0.8 18.60 76.0 19.61 1,471.0 LRGAG-22-168 Eagle 99.8 102.0 2.3 2.56 75.8 3.57 267.6 and 132.9 138.0 5.1 2.12 226.3 5.14 385.3 LRGAG-22-169 Eagle 55.4 99.9 44.5 1.51 52.3 2.21 165.5 including 84.7 99.2 14.5 3.78 47.3 4.41 331.1 including 85.9 87.1 1.3 18.38 105.9 19.80 1,484.7 LRGAG-22-170 Eagle 139.7 145.1 5.4 0.87 99.3 2.19 164.2 including 142.2 144.1 1.9 2.23 230.1 5.29 397.1 LRGAG-22-171 Eagle 172.6 182.5 9.9 2.00 78.5 3.04 228.1 including 180.4 182.5 2.2 5.43 107.0 6.86 514.6 LRGAG-22-172 Eagle 155.3 209.1 53.8 3.27 123.8 4.92 369.3 including 165.6 185.0 19.4 8.09 193.1 10.67 800.1 including 166.1 171.3 5.2 13.72 288.8 17.57 1,317.7 LRGAG-22-173 Eagle 107.8 148.2 40.5 3.67 281.6 7.43 556.9 including 108.7 112.7 4.1 5.35 1,267.0 22.24 1,668.0 including 108.7 110.1 1.4 8.90 1,878.9 33.95 2,546.5 including 142.6 143.6 1.0 11.80 1,430.0 30.87 2,315.0 LRGAG-22-174 Eagle 95.9 102.8 6.9 1.23 197.3 3.86 289.9 including 99.3 100.3 1.0 3.45 454.0 9.50 712.8 LRGAG-22-175 Eagle 72.5 83.7 11.2 1.55 50.2 2.22 166.6 including 75.2 76.4 1.2 4.11 55.4 4.85 363.6 LRGAG-22-176 Eagle 131.5 147.3 15.9 2.54 119.8 4.14 310.5 including 141.9 143.5 1.6 9.03 627.5 17.40 1,304.8 LRGAG-22-177 Eagle 133.7 165.3 31.7 1.21 145.3 3.15 236.0 including 154.8 164.6 9.8 3.03 392.8 8.27 619.9 including 160.7 163.0 2.3 10.15 1,357.2 28.25 2,118.4 1. Not true width 2. AgEq converted using a silver to gold ratio of 75:1 at recoveries of 100% The Eagle Deposit adjoins the Main Deposit and represents a northern extension of the previously defined Mineral Resource Estimate in the Los Ricos South PEA. The Eagle concession covers 1,107 hectares, including the area between the Main Deposit and the Company's Jamaica concession located 3km to the northwest, where the Company holds the rights to additional concessions. Drilling at the Eagle has returned the highest grade intercepts to date in the district. These wide high-grade intercepts are consistent with geophysical targets on the new concession. Figure 3, above, provides a summary of the Los Ricos District, including both the Los Ricos North and Los Ricos South projects. The map includes an outline of the concession areas and a summary of the current Mineral Resource Estimates ("MRE") on the projects, as well as stars locating each of the deposits included within the current MREs. Table 2: Drill Hole Locations Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Length LRGAG-22-163 609965 2328563 1261 50 -52 165 LRGAG-22-164 610009 2328368 1269 50 -75 279 LRGAG-22-165 610058 2328443 1278 50 -84 187 LRGAG-22-166 610033 2328438 1269 50 -74 176 LRGAG-22-167 609964 2328562 1260 50 -72 187 LRGAG-22-168 610033 2328437 1269 50 -80 195 LRGAG-22-169 610061 2328412 1282 50 -45 159 LRGAG-22-170 609973 2328501 1254 50 -66 181 LRGAG-22-171 610029 2328417 1270 50 -78 227 LRGAG-22-172 610037 2328361 1279 50 -80 260 LRGAG-22-173 610060 2328411 1282 50 -76 199 LRGAG-23-174 610009 2328500 1261 50 -73 162 LRGAG-23-175 610053 2328537 1274 50 -76 135 LRGAG-23-176 609958 2328621 1268 50 -75 187 LRGAG-23-177 609945 2328511 1250 50 -68 199 VRIFY Slide Deck and 3D Presentation VRIFY is a platform being used by companies to communicate with investors using 360 virtual tours of remote mining assets, 3D models and interactive presentations. VRIFY can be accessed by website and with the VRIFY iOS and Android apps. The VRIFY 3D Slide Deck for GoGold can be viewed at: https://vrify.com/companies/gogold-resources-inc and on the Company's website at: www.gogoldresources.com. Los Ricos District Exploration Projects The Company's two exploration projects at its Los Ricos Property are in Jalisco state, Mexico. The Los Ricos South Project began in March 2019 and an initial Mineral Resource was announced on July 29, 2020, which disclosed a Measured & Indicated Mineral Resource of 63.7 million ounces AgEq grading 199 g/t AgEq contained in 10.0 million tonnes, and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 19.9 million ounces AgEq grading 190 g/t AgEq contained in 3.3 million tonnes. An initial PEA on the project was announced on January 20, 2021, indicating an NPV 5% of US$295M. The Eagle Concession was acquired in October 2022 and is adjacent to the Main Area which contains the initial Mineral Resource. The Los Ricos North Project was launched in March 2020 and an initial Mineral Resource was announced on December 7, 2021, which disclosed an Indicated Mineral Resource of 87.8 million ounces AgEq grading 122 g/t AgEq contained in 22.3 million tonnes, and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 73.2 million ounces AgEq grading 111 g/t AgEq contained in 20.5 million tonnes. An initial PEA on the project was announced on May 17, 2023, indicating an NPV 5% of US$413M. Procedure, Quality Assurance / Quality Control and Data Verification The diamond drill core (HQ size) is geologically logged, photographed and marked for sampling. When the sample lengths are determined, the full core is sawn with a diamond blade core saw with one half of the core being bagged and tagged for assay. The remaining half portion is returned to the core trays for storage and/or for metallurgical test work. The sealed and tagged sample bags are transported to the ALS Chemex facility in Guadalajara, Mexico. ALS Chemex crushes the samples and prepares 200-300 gram pulp samples with ninety percent passing Tyler 150 mesh (106m). The pulps are assayed for gold using a 30-gram charge by fire assay (Code AA23) and over limits greater than 10 grams per tonne are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code ME-GRAV21). Silver and multi-element analysis is completed using total digestion (Code ME-ICP61 Total Digestion ICP). Over limits greater than 100 grams per tonne silver are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (ME-GRA21). Quality assurance and quality control ("QA/QC") procedures monitor the chain-of-custody of the samples and includes the systematic insertion and monitoring of appropriate reference materials (certified standards, blanks and duplicates) into the sample strings. The results of the assaying of the QA/QC material included in each batch are tracked to ensure the integrity of the assay data. All results stated in this announcement have passed GoGold's QA/QC protocols. Mr. David Duncan, P. Geo. is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and is responsible for the technical information of this release. About GoGold Resources GoGold Resources (TSX: GGD) is a Canadian-based silver and gold producer focused on operating, developing, exploring and acquiring high quality projects in Mexico. The Company operates the Parral Tailings mine in the state of Chihuahua and has the Los Ricos South and Los Ricos North exploration projects in the state of Jalisco. Headquartered in Halifax, NS, GoGold is building a portfolio of low cost, high margin projects. For more information visit gogoldresources.com. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT The securities described herein 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 benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy of any of GoGold's securities in the United States. This news release may contain "forward-looking information" as defined in applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Los Ricos South and North projects, and future plans and objectives of GoGold, including the intention to undertake further exploration at Los Ricos North, and the prospect of further discoveries there, constitute forward looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking information is based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such information but which may prove to be incorrect, including, but not limited to, assumptions in connection with the continuance of GoGold and its subsidiaries as a going concern, general economic and market conditions, mineral prices, the accuracy of mineral resource estimates, and the performance of the Parral project. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from GoGold's expectations include exploration and development risks associated with GoGold's projects, the failure to establish estimated mineral resources or mineral reserves, volatility of commodity prices, variations of recovery rates, and global economic conditions. For additional information with respect to risk factors applicable to GoGold, reference should be made to GoGold's continuous disclosure materials filed from time to time with securities regulators, including, but not limited to, GoGold's Annual Information Form. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date of this release. Han Suk Kyu's K-drama "Dr. Romantic 3" continues to prove its popularity after beating Netflix's "The Glory" in the recent drama rankings. After the reign of Song Hye Kyo's drama, the SBS medical series outshone the revenge drama by garnering a new achievement. 'Dr. Romantic 3' Delivers Record-Breaking Achievement In a report cited by a media outlet, OTT integrated search and content recommendation platform Kinolights has released the latest ranking of dramas for the 4th week of May. "Dr. Romantic 3" topped the rankings for four consecutive weeks, surpassing "The Glory's" record. Not only that, but the medical K-drama is the first series this 2023 that cemented its spot for ranking first in four consecutive weeks. To recall, the Song Hye Kyo led K-drama had a record of three weeks in a row, set by "The Glory Part 2." In addition, Kinolight also recorded a rating of 96 percent for "Dr. Romantic 3." What to Expect in 'Dr. Romantic 3' Finale After three years, the legendary surgeon Kim Sa Bu returned along with the Doldam staff in "Dr. Romantic 3." Airing every Friday and Saturday, the medical K-drama takes over the 10 p.m. time slot, previously occupied by "Taxi Driver 2," starring Lee Je Hoon. As expected, the 16-episode series delivers heartwarming scenes every week in the midst of intense situations, especially during emergency crises. Lead stars Han Suk Kyu, Ahn Hyo Seop, and Lee Sung Kyung reprised their roles, while the majority of the cast returned to playing their characters. Interestingly, the weekend K-drama also welcomed three new cast members. Lee Hong Nae, who appeared in "Inspector Koo," takes on the role of Lee Seon Wung, one of Doldam's maknae doctors, along with Jang Dong Hwa, played by Lee Shin Young. As for the antagonist in this season, Lee Kyung Young plays as the Trauma Center's head, Cha Jin Man, and Kim Sa Bu's former colleague. Meanwhile, "Dr. Romantic 3" also showcases the character growth of Seo Woo Jin, played by Ahn Hyo Seop, and Cha Eun Jae, played by Lee Sung Kyung. While season 2 featured Seo Woo Jin as the troublemaker rookie doctor, Kim Sa Bu helped him realize his worth and talent, making him one of his trusted surgeons. As for Cha Eun Jae, she was able to overcome her anxiety during surgery thanks to Kim Sa Bu. Now, she is Doldam's cardiothoracic surgeon. On the other hand, season 3 also depicts Kim Sa Bu's struggle with his health. In the previous episode, he wanted to hire Cha Jin Man to lead the trauma center. At this point, Jin Man thinks that Kim Sa Bu put him in this position because of his deteriorating health. For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars. KDramaStars owns this article Written by Geca Wills From his K-drama comeback for "Reborn Rich" to his marriage with Katy Louise Saunders, Song Joong Ki continues to receive overwhelming accomplishments in his life and career. Interestingly, one of his recent achievements is being declared as Louis Vuitton's newest global ambassador. Song Joong Ki Graces GQ Korea in Louis Vuitton The South Korean superstar joins "Squid Game" star Jung Ho Yeon, BTS' J-Hope, "Euphoria" star Zendaya, Chloe Grace Moretz, and more as the face of the brand to represent the French luxury fashion house. Following his debut at the Cannes Film Festival, Louis Vuitton announced its partnership with Song Joong Ki as its newest global ambassador. Through this, GQ Korea launched the actor's newest campaign shoot with the brand, showing off his undeniable charm. Song Joong Ki never fails to amaze the public with his oozing visuals, sporting creative and bold styles from the brand. The "Descendants of the Sun" star dons a print on print co-ords for a spring-summer look. In one photo, Song Joong Ki showcased an oversized 'fit, wearing a long-line coat, while in the other photo, he was wearing a cropped vest, showing off his abs. Song Joong Ki's Looks for Louis Vuitton Met With Underwhelming Reactions Unfortunately, not all seemed impressed with Song Joong Ki's latest campaign shoot for Louis Vuitton. As cited by a news portal, people were dismayed with the actor's styling for the brand. One pointed out that Song Joong Ki seemed "not to suit the brand at all," while others wondered if the South Korean top star is just "bad at posing" or the clothes don't work on him. Other comments include: "The clothes are pretty, but the fit sucks, that's why" "But why does it feel like he's wearing his dad's clothes...." "Those clothes can only be worn by 190 cm tall giants." To recall, this is not the first time that Song Joong Ki posed for GQ Korea and for Louis Vuitton. For the publication's March 2023 issue, the 37-year-old actor graced the magazine for its spring-summer concept. At the time, the actor wore almost identical clothes but with different styling. Song Joong Ki Hops on 'Get Ready With Me' Trend for Cannes Film Festival Meanwhile, as the brand announced its collaboration with the South Korean superstar, Louis Vuitton teased fans with a snippets of his preparation for the Cannes Film Festival 2023. The actor joined the trend and did a get ready with me video, showing off the pieces he got for the ceremony. Song Joong Ki joined this year's Cannes Film Festival for the movie "Hopeless" with BIBI and Hong Sa Bin. IN CASE YOU MISSED: Song Joong Ki's New Movie 'Hopeless' Receives Standing Ovation at Cannes Film Festival 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 Weekday drama "Delightfully Deceitful" finally premiered, and immediately created a buzz because of this cast member. Curious about what happened? Then read on! 'Delightfully Deceitful' Makes Successful Debut tvN's Monday and Tuesday evening slots are now being occupied by the mystery drama "Delightfully Deceitful," starring Kim Dong Wook and Chun Woo Hee. On May 29, the series aired its first episode, and shortly after its broadcast, the drama received tons of comments on social media. People shared their mixed reactions to the newly released drama. Generally, some said that it was fun. They praised the exciting development of the story and the feast of fresh characters. The series features the story of a man and woman with completely different temperaments, meeting and taking revenge together to achieve one goal. In "Delightfully Deceitful" episode 1 introduced the first meeting of Lee Ro Woom (Chun Woo Hee), called a memorization genius, and Han Moo Young (Kim Dong Wook), a lawyer suffering from hyper-empathy syndrome. Lee Ro Woom had been serving a decade in prison as a murderer, was acquitted when the real culprit Mr. Ye appeared. She was cleared of false charge when Han Moo Young, the attorney in charge of Mr. Ye's case, released a recorded tape of Mr. Ye admitting the crime to the media. She then hired Lawyer Han to take charge of the lawsuit for national compensation, and the relationship between them began in earnest. Impressively, the pilot episode recorded an average rating of 6.1 percent in the metropolitan area, and 5.4 percent nationwide. The drama also took first place in the same time slot in the metropolitan area and nationwide. Kim Dong Wook Goes Viral for His Overlapping K-Drama Appearances Despite the successful premiere, "Delightfully Deceitful" lead actor Kim Dong Wook was embroiled in controversy over his overlapping screen appearances. He also stars in KBS2's Monday-Tuesday series "My Perfect Stranger," which aired on May 1. Originally, "My Perfect Stranger" was scheduled for release in January this year for Wednesday-Thursday slots. Unfortunately, the airing was postponed and moved to May. As a result, Kim Dong Wook's overlapping appearance in both dramas will last for four weeks. Meanwhile, at the media press conference of "My Perfect Stranger," which happened in the last week of April, the drama's director shared his sentiment towards the unfortunate conflict of Kim Wong Wook's schedule. "I felt sorry that 'My Perfect Stranger' overlapped with Kim Dong Wook's 'Delightfully Deceitful' drama for a month. It's an unfortunate coincidence. As much as the staff worked hard for this project, we did our best in post-production so that the overlapping appearances wouldn't become an issue." What can you say about the newly released K-drama "Deceitfully Deceitful"? Share your thoughts/replies in the comments! For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars. KDramaStars owns this article. Shai Collins wrote this. Press Release May 31, 2023 Senate honors the "Legend of the North" The Senate on Wednesday adopted a resolution expressing the profound sympathy and sincere condolences on the death of Carlos M. Padilla, the former governor of Nueva Vizcaya and considered as the "Legend of the North." Sen. Cynthia Villar, sponsor of Sen. Resolution No. (SRN) 610, remembered Padilla as a stalwart of Nacionalista Party and held in high regard by his colleagues and constituents for his "warmth, quiet dignity, and genuine dedication to public service." The Senate unanimously adopted SRN 610, taking into consideration SRNs 615 and 646, authored by Senators Sen. Francis "Chiz" Escudero and Joel Villanueva, respectively. "I had the privilege of first working with Gov. Padilla during my term as a congresswoman when he served as the minority leader of the House of Representatives. He graciously shared his wisdom and exemplified learned insight, diplomacy, and unwavering integrity in fulfilling his responsibilities," Villar said. "Gov. Padilla demonstrated strong leadership and was a true statesman, embodying the very essence of the Nacionalista Party's motto, 'Ang Bayan Higit sa Lahat!' He wholeheartedly worked towards the progress and improvement of our country, always prioritizing the well-being of the people," she added. Padilla began his journey in public service as the mayor of the Municipality of Dupax and later of Dupax Del Norte. He become a seasoned veteran when he entered in the legislative department which included six years as an assemblyman and 23 years as a member of the House of Representatives. He was deputy speaker during the 11th Congress and minority floor leader during the 12th Congress. He chaired the Committees on Education and Indigenous People and served as a member of the Commission on Appointments and the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal. His authorship of significant laws, including the Free Public Secondary Education Act, the Philippine Librarianship Act, and the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education Act, earned him the title of the "Father of Free Public Secondary Education." "To my family, Manny and I, he will forever be Caloy or Tito Caloy to my children a dear friend whose warmth and kindness will always be cherished and whose departure has left a void that we deeply feel. Let us honor his memory and pay tribute to his remarkable achievements," Villar said. 'Escudero, in his sponsorship speech, said Padilla was doing what he loved most and performing the job that he was best at: public service. "Manong Kaloy was a true leader and a public servant as exemplified by his actions throughout his five decades in government service as a mayor, legislator, and as a local chief executive of his beloved province of Nueva Vizcaya," Escudero said. Villanueva, for his part, said Padilla will be remembered not only by his fellow Novo Vizcayanos, by fellow countrymen, but also by the people of El Salvador. He said that in March 2017, Padilla testified in the Latin American country the destructive effect of mining in the province. His testimony, he said, was instrumental in historic Salvadoran legislature vote that made El Salvador the first nation in the world to ban metal mining to save its waterways. "And for this, Mr. President, he has been regarded as a visionary environmental leader by many Salvadoran environmentalists," Villanueva said. The resolution was adopted with all senators as co-authors. Facebook user Bryan Tanui through social media has confessed his love for KFMs talented radio presenter, Doreen Nasasira. In a Facebook post, Tanui described himself as a progressive-minded person before requesting a dinner date with Nasasira. Tanui, who claims he has been trying to remain friends with Nasasira, also offered 58 cows as a down payment for meeting the K Zone show host who has on several occasions mended listeners hearts by giving relationship advice. Hi Doreen Nasasira, Im Tanui Bryan from Kenya, a county known as Nandi, Kapsabet town, Kam village, Im however an international person, I would really wish to bring to your attention that have always been trying hard to maintain in the lane of friends which I realized Im a friend of someone who doesnt know me, Im a very progressive-minded person with little ability of laziness and big disappointment in giving up I truly dont, the post reads in part. To cut the story short I would really wish to have dinner with you meet me as a very aggressive gentleman from Nandi if Nandi tribe, the man added. Responding to Tanui in a repost on her Facebook page, the speechless Nasasira wrote, Ehhhhh Im I safe? Check out the post below; Bush war hero and former Uganda Peoples Defence Force (UPDF) commander Maj. Gen Mugisha Muntu has asked Ugandan soldiers who are part of the peacekeeping mission in Somalia not to tire despite mounting pressure from the Al-Shabaab terrorists. Many experts have since been calling upon the Ugandan government to end its engagement in Somalia and withdraw its troops, questioning its interest as lives are lost and the huge money spent in the war. However, Muntu says it is not about time to back out, advising regional leaders to study and assess the situation and change strategy where needed. My hope is that we would not get exhausted. We would rather study the situation if it requires applying different strategies we apply them but we do not bow to the pressures of the Al Shabaab, Muntu said. The terrorists last week on Friday attacked the peacekeepers Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Buulo Mareer, approximately 120km southwest of Mogadishu in the Lower Shabelle region, and claimed to have killed over 100 soldiers. An unclear report has been given to explain the extent of the loss of troops and military equipment in the raid. My Micheal Woniala Government is set to start giving Shs17 million to each identified household living in landslide-prone areas in Bugisu to relocate and resettle themselves to safer areas. The State Minister of Relief and Disaster Preparedness, Davinia Esther Anyakun said about 4,000 families will benefit from the programme, which she said will kick off this week in the pilot districts of Bududa, Manafwa, Namisindwa, and Sironko She made the remarks while speaking at Masugu primary school at the weekend during the burial of five family members who died in the landslide at Masugu village, Buluganya parish, Buluganya sub-county in Bulambuli district. The landslide, which was triggered by a heavy downpour, killed five people, four of them from one family. It also buried livestock, crops, and displaced hundreds. Anyakun, however, apologised for the delay to implement the program, which was supposed to kick off in October, last year and be completed by March this year. Government earmarked a compensation package of Shs.17 million and the affected homesteads are expected to use that money to relocate themselves to areas of their choice. This marks a shift from the earlier approach where affected persons were relocated to areas identified by the government. These included Kiryandongo district and Bunambutye in Bulambuli district. The programme dubbed Cash Transfers was launched in August 2022 by Prime Minister Robbinah Nabbanja in Bududa district. It is expected to cost a cash payout totaling about $8.47m (about Shs32 billion). Anyakun also said people who have invaded the boundaries and are now settling in the Mt Elgon National Park will also be compensated. Anyakun also delivered Shs5 million from the government to the families that lost their relatives in the landslide. Annet Nandudu, the Bulambuli district chairperson blamed the government for delay, saying the family that died had already gotten the yellow card for resettlement from the Office of Prime Minister (OPM). Robert Kwesiga, the Secretary General of Uganda Red Cross, who gave out non-food items to the 200 homesteads that have been affected, said there is need for a change of strategy towards managing disasters. As Red Cross, our emphasis will have to be put on early action plans, forecast financing, and early warning systems such that on one hand, we can prevent, and on the other, we can warn people and save them with their properties, Kwesiga said. In June 2019, a landslide hit Buwali Sub-county, leaving five people dead and more than 400 displaced in Bududa. In October 2018, 42 people were reportedly killed and more than 500 people displaced in Suume Village in Bukalasi sub-county. In August 2017, landslides hit Bufupa Parish in Sironko district, killing seven people and displacing hundreds. In June 2012, another landslide occurred in Namaga and Bunakasala villages in Bumwalukani sub-county in Bududa, leaving about 450 people dead and property destroyed. Kampala Metropolitan Police South (KMP South) and Kajjansi Police Division are investigating a tragic incident of murder by shooting that occurred on Tuesday night. Police say the incident took place at Kitiko Birongo, Ndejje Division, Makindye Sebagabo in Wakiso district. The victim has been identified as Mukisa Ronnie, a 45-year-old lawyer working wtih IBC Advocates and a resident of Kitiko Birongo in Ndejje division, Makindye Sebagabo, Wakiso district. It is alleged that last night at 11 pm after parking his dark blue Subaru Legacy registration number UBJ 006K, Mukisa proceeded to close the gate and that it was during his return to the apartment that neighbors heard gunshots, prompting them to investigate the commotion. Statements from eyewitnesses have indicated that an unidentified individual was seen shooting at Mukisa before briefly withdrawing, only to return and shoot him at close range multiple times in the head. The assailant quickly fled the scene and escaped on a waiting motorcycle, the direction of which remains unknown. According to the preliminary information received, Mr. Mukisa would often return home late. However, on the night of the incident, he arrived at the apartment parking lot at approximately 23:00hrs, Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson, Luke Owoyeaigyire said in a statement. Kajansi Police Station has since recovered four projectiles and cartridges. Owoyeaigyire says inquiries to gather further information and establish the motive behind this crime are on. Opposition political parties three-day retreat has kicked off this morning at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala. Shadow minister for Information, also Mityana district Woman MP, Joyce Bagala says the retreat will focus on discussing constitutional and electoral reforms ahead of the 2026 general elections. The meeting will be addressed by political party leaders including National Unity Platforms Robert Kyagulanyi, Forum for Democratic Changes Patrick Amuriat, and Democratic Partys Nobert Mao among others. Bagala says they want to agree on legal reforms that will foster a conducive environment for a free and fair electoral process. She noted that after this retreat, they will embark on consultative meetings across the country to gather citizens views about the same. The discussion of constitutional review and electoral reforms has been here, its not new but we are continuing with that discussion. iIts our duty and its going to involve all Members of Parliament of the opposition including independent members who agree with us, Bagala said. Meanwhile, Nakaseke South legislator, Luttamaguzi Ssemakula proposes that the number of MPs be reduced to save the poor country from spending a lot of tax payers money on their exorbitant emoluments. The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling upon governments to stop subsidizing tobacco farming and support more sustainable crops that could feed millions. This comes as the world marks No Tobacco Day under the theme We need food, not tobacco. The 2023 global campaign aims to raise awareness about alternative crop production and marketing opportunities for tobacco farmers and encourage them to grow sustainable, nutritious crops. According to the WHO chief Dr. Tedros Adhanom, tobacco is responsible for 8 million deaths a year, yet governments across the world spend millions supporting tobacco farms. He says by choosing to grow food instead of tobacco, nations can prioritize health, preserve ecosystems, and strengthen food security for all. More than 300 million people globally are faced with acute food insecurity. Tobacco farming causes diseases to the farmers themselves and more than 1 million child laborers are estimated to be working on tobacco farms, missing their opportunity for an education. The World Bank Group has expressed great concern about the enactment of the 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act. In a press statement on the World Bank Group website this afternoon, the global body says that if implemented, the Act would endanger people by placing an added barrier to vital medical care, disease screening, and precautions. It adds that the Act is not consistent with the values of non-discrimination and inclusion that the institution upholds. The statement further says that to achieve its goals of ending extreme poverty and boosting shared prosperity, the World Bank Group places inclusive development at the forefront with a focus on all groups, especially those who are marginalized, disadvantaged, or vulnerable. Development efforts supported by the World Bank Group have demonstrated that institutionalized discrimination is harmful to people, societies, and countries. This is the latest international body to respond to the enactment of the anti-gay law that was approved by President Museveni recently, drawing outrage, especially from the Western world. On May 26th, President Museveni assented to the Anti-Homosexuality Bill 2023 which criminalizes engagement and promotion of same-sex relations in Uganda. World No Tobacco Day takes place on today (Wednesday) and HSE/South East Community Healthcare (SECH) are encouraging all who smoke to use this date as their opportunity to quit or begin the process of quitting. The HSE Health and Wellbeing division, through the dedicated Health Promotion and Improvement team, are promoting the many free supports that are available to people in counties Carlow, Kilkenny, South Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford to quit smoking. These free supports include one to one behavioural support by trained stop smoking advisers to help people to quit and stay quit. The service aims to help people to reach 28 days smoke free, at which stage they are five times more likely to stay quit for good. Trained Stop Smoking Advisors support individuals with changing behaviours, setting Quit dates and dealing with cravings and withdrawals. A carbon monoxide monitor is used to track the improvement of the levels of carbon monoxide in the lungs and to validate their progress along the journey, which has proven to be an exceptionally useful tool to help people quit. Support is also provided through face to face appointments or over the phone with friendly, non-judgemental and trained Stop Smoking Advisors. Since the establishment of a number of new clinics county wide in Wexford in January, there has been a significant uptake in the service. Nearly one in three current smokers are either trying to quit or actively planning to do so, 46% of those who smoked in the previous year have tried to quit and 73% of these have successfully quit (Healthy Ireland 2022). Supported by the governments Slaintecare strategy for its aims of integrating hospital and primary care services, the Supporting Pregnant Women and Extended Family to Quit and Stay Quit also operates as a free, dedicated support for pregnant women and their families. The programme takes referrals of pregnant women (in addition to partners and family members) from the four maternity departments in the South East (University Hospital Waterford, Wexford General Hospital, St Lukes General Hospital Carlow/Kilkenny and Tipperary University Hospital) and from primary care/community services throughout the region. No matter what stage you or your partner are at in your pregnancy, the HSE says it is never too late to stop smoking. You will get the support you need and not be judged. Ask your midwife, GP, healthcare provider or practice nurse to refer yourself to this programme. Other smoking cessation supports include the We Can Quit programme which is delivered as part of the Slaintecare Healthy Communities initiatives in Clonmel, Waterford and Wexford and is available to both individuals as well as in group support. The We Can Quit programme is an evidence based stop smoking programme, designed to be delivered in the community by trained Community Facilitators through group work. We Can QUIT is a free, friendly and supportive group programme for men and women who smoke and who want support to quit smoking. The programme offers a weekly stop smoking group and 1-to-1 support. The programme is offered by the HSE in partnership with local community organisations. Advisors are also attached to SECH Chronic Disease Hub teams and focus on providing support to people with any of the four major chronic diseases; Cardiovascular Disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD), Asthma and Type 2 Diabetes. Ireland now has more quitters than smokers, 27% of the Irish population are ex-smokers and in all age groups over the age of 35, there are more ex-smokers than current smokers. People who have quit smoking have experienced the benefits first hand by reaching out for the dedicated support to quit being offered by the HSE Health and Wellbeing department. Quitting smoking is the single best thing you can do for your health, and if you would like to get started on your Quit journey you can contact your local Stop Smoking Adviser and be directed to your nearest Clinic by emailing southeaststopsmokings upport@hse.ie or calling 1800 201 203 HSE/South East Community Healthcare Quit Information Stands for World Tobacco Day (Wednesday, May 31) will be available at Kilkenny: 11am-1pm St Lukes General Hospital, Kilkenny. Thomastown, Kilkenny: 2-4pm Thomastown Primary Care Centre. A Kilkenny student is among those exhibiting at the recent Trees to Treasures exhibition, showcasing the quality of education delivered by the National Centre for Excellence in Furniture Design and Technology, School of Design and Creative Arts, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Connemara. First year student in ATUs Furniture Design, Making and Technology, Isabel Robinson from Lavinstown, was among those exhibiting. Isobel made a trinket box from Spalted Beech and veneer for the Trees to Treasure exhibition in Farmleigh Gallery in Phoenix Park. Rosemary Steen, CEO of the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland, who officially launched the exhibition with with Mary Heffernan, General Manager and Creative Leader OPW and ATU Connemaras Head of Campus, Paul Leamy admiring the table created by Shane Tubrid The Trees to Treasures exhibition highlights the remarkable work being produced by the students, staff, and graduates of ATU. It focuses on the transition of trees into beautiful and treasured creations, drawing influence from numerous sources, including experience, aesthetics, functionality, and the exceptional natural beauty of the campus's location on the west coast of Ireland. The exhibition, which officially launched last week, will run until August 27 at Farmleigh Gallery in the Phoenix Park. The launch event was attended by a large audience and was officially opened by Rosemary Steen, CEO of the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland who encourages the public to visit the exhibition over the summer. The Trees to Treasures exhibition is an unmissable exhibition for lovers of Irish craft and design. The dynamic nature of the programmes available to students at ATU are reflected in the show. Its an exhibition which demonstrates how creativity can really come to life in the outstanding pieces on show," she said. "This exhibition not only showcases the impressive work by students, graduates and staff of ATU. But it also illustrates, through sustainable means and materials, how exhibitions of high quality can be produced. We at DCCI are very proud to have been involved at the launch of this wonderful exhibition and encourage all those with an interest in the sector to visit it. Over the last 20 years, the Office of Public Works (OPW) has worked with ATU Connemara, starting with work placement students and progressing to collaborative projects and exhibitions. Paul Biesty, Chief Technical Officer at the OPW Furniture Branch, highlighted the importance of the relationship with the OPW and the promotion of this exhibition to showcase the dynamic skills, creativity, and expertise of the students, staff, and graduates. "As a former student of ATU Connemara, we were always delighted to have the opportunity to work on live projects. This allowed us to gain exposure to a working environment, dealing directly with clients while receiving constructive feedback as part of our learning journey," he said. Paul Leamy, Head of Department at the National Centre for Excellence in Furniture Design & Technology, spoke about the programmes delivered at the Connemara campus. "Our programmes are renowned nationally and internationally for the exceptional quality of applied technological education in the fields of furniture and wood product design and manufacture, teacher education, development, origination and creativity, fine furniture making, and focused research. These programmes are dynamic, alert, and responsive to the needs of industry, society, and the ongoing development of the Irish economy," he said. Dr Orla Flynn, President of Atlantic Technological University added: The Trees to Treasures exhibition provides an opportunity for those interested in pursuing a career in furniture design, making, technology, and initial teacher education to see the beautiful pieces on display. The exhibition showcases the innovative and creative ways in which the students, staff, and graduates utilise their skills and materials to make a positive impact on the world." For those interested in learning more about the programmes delivered at the ATU Connemara campus, the public can visit the Trees to Treasures exhibition at Farmleigh Gallery, Farmleigh House, which will remain open until August 27. Further information is available at www.atu.ie. A major safety issue has been identified in a ladder sold to Irish consumers from an online platform. According to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), the weight limit of the Homidec Telescopic Ladder sold on Amazon is reportedly inaccurate and the product may not hold the weight advertised without collapsing. This could cause serious injury from falling from the full extended height of the product. The ASIN numbers of the product are B09P5891YP, B09P58PVVG, B09P59H3B9, B09P5BXD21 and B09P5CNFKH. It was sold to approximately 292 people in the Republic of Ireland. If you purchased one of these products, please discontinue use immediately and discard the product. You may wish to contact Amazon to see if there are any remedies available to you, which can be done via your user account on Amazon. After 16 years awarding third level student scholarships, the Naughton Foundation Scholarship scheme is once again reminding students from County Kilkenny that the 2023 closing date is fast approaching and inviting all applicants to submit their entries. The Naughton Scholarships are a scheme of scholarships to promote the study of engineering, science and technology at third level by students in Ireland. Each year from February to May, Leaving Certificate students can apply for a scholarship if they intend on studying science, computer science, mathematics, engineering or technology at third level that year. The closing date for receipt of application forms for The Naughton Foundation Scholarship 2023 is Friday, 30th June 2023 at midnight. There will be one guaranteed scholarship for each of the participating counties, 36 allocated in total. The Naughton Foundation was established by Dr Martin and Carmel Naughton in 1994 and its goal is to support worthwhile causes in the arts and education. In 2008 they decided to create the scholarship programme to increase their support for Leaving Certificate students who would like to study engineering, mathematics, science, computer science and technology at third level in Ireland. Originally the scholarship programme only applied to students from counties Louth, Meath and Monaghan however it has since expanded nationwide and students from all Counties in the Republic of Ireland are eligible to apply. Students are invited to apply if they are currently attending secondary schools in County Kilkenny, and if they are studying two or more of the following subjects- physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, mathematics, and applied mathematics. Each Naughton Scholarship is valued at 20,000 so it is a contribution of 5,000 for each year of the students third-level course for a student studying science, engineering, maths or technology in any publicly funded university or third-level institution in Ireland, including Northern Ireland. The school of each winner is also awarded 1,000. Applications must be submitted before, or on this date to be considered eligible for the scholarship, this deadline will not be extended. The 2023 application forms for The Naughton Foundation Scholarship Programme are available for download and can be completed online on The Naughton Foundation website. Kilkenny County Council has announced the launch of free public Wi-Fi in multiple parts of County Kilkenny. The initiative is part of the WiFi4EU program, which aims to provide free Wi-Fi access in public spaces across Europe as part of the European Commission's efforts to bring communities more closely into the Digital Single Market. The European Commission part funded the scheme with the Department of Rural & Community Development via vouchers to be used for the installation of a public Wi-Fi network. Each voucher was worth 15,000, and Kilkenny was allocated a maximum of 4 vouchers. The funding paid for the equipment and installation, while the Local Authority pays the internet connection fees and running costs. The initiative is part of the WiFi4EU program, which was open to all EU member countries. There were some requirements to be adhered to for the vouchers to be paid, including installation completion times and the scheme should run for a minimum of three years. Free public Wi-Fi is now available in Kilkenny City, Callan, Thomastown, Castlecomer, Urlingford, and Graiguenamanagh. Users can access the service by selecting the WIFI4EU network name in the WIFI connections settings on their electronic device, with no registration or password required to use it. Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Pat Fitzpatrick, said, "Connectivity is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity. With the launch of free WiFi across Kilkenny City and County, we're bridging the gap and empowering our community to stay connected, informed, and inspired". Kilkenny County Council has announced the launch of free public Wi-Fi in multiple parts of County Kilkenny. The initiative is part of the WiFi4EU program, which aims to provide free Wi-Fi access in public spaces across Europe as part of the European Commission's efforts to bring communities more closely into the Digital Single Market. The European Commission part funded the scheme with the Department of Rural & Community Development via vouchers to be used for the installation of a public Wi-Fi network. Each voucher was worth 15,000, and Kilkenny was allocated a maximum of 4 vouchers. The funding paid for the equipment and installation, while the Local Authority pays the internet connection fees and running costs. The initiative is part of the WiFi4EU program, which was open to all EU member countries. There were some requirements to be adhered to for the vouchers to be paid, including installation completion times and the scheme should run for a minimum of three years. Free public Wi-Fi is now available in Kilkenny City, Callan, Thomastown, Castlecomer, Urlingford, and Graiguenamanagh. Users can access the service by selecting the WIFI4EU network name in the WIFI connections settings on their electronic device, with no registration or password required to use it. Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Pat Fitzpatrick, said, "Connectivity is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity. With the launch of free WiFi across Kilkenny City and County, we're bridging the gap and empowering our community to stay connected, informed, and inspired". Strengths Render was the best-performing cryptocurrency of the week, rising by 20.23%, as tracked by CoinMarketCap. According to Bloomberg, attacks on token protocols and crypto projects have dramatically decreased by 70% in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period last year. The amount stolen in the first three months of this year is less than any quarter in 2022, suggesting improved security measures and an overall decrease in vulnerabilities. Gulf Finance, a joint venture between Binance and Gulf Innova, has received digital asset operator licenses for a digital asset platform from Thailands Ministry, as reported by Bloomberg. Weaknesses The worst-performing cryptocurrency for the week, as tracked by CoinMarketCap, was GMX, down by 13.50%. Elon Musk cautioned investors against overinvesting in Dogecoin during a virtual conference in London, hosted by the Wall Street Journal. The amount of Ethereum available across exchanges dropped to a five-year low on May 26, reducing the total amount of Ethereum held on exchanges to 17.86 million. Bloomberg reports that this significant decline in Ethereum's exchange supply has not been seen since April 2018. Opportunities Bitcoin, an asset known for its volatility, has been consistently trading around $27,000 for three consecutive Tuesdays, suggesting a decrease in its typical volatility, as reported by Bloomberg. The Solana Foundation announced the integration of AI into the layer-one blockchain through a new ChatGPT plugin, available for download on Github. Bitcoin has been exhibiting less volatility lately, not posting a daily move of 6% for 70 sessions, marking its longest streak of relative calm since October 2020, as per Bloomberg. Threats Bloomberg reports that Shaquille ONeal allegedly violated securities laws when he sold non-fungible tokens (NFTs) in connection with his Astrals Project. The Astrals NFTs are considered securities that should have been registered before being offered and sold. Dubais financial regulator warned that global regulatory authorities need to enhance their collaborations to prevent malicious entities from exploiting gaps in cryptocurrency regulations, according to Bloomberg. Zcash spot reached a 52-week low at $30.31, with the previous low recorded on March 11. The cryptocurrency has declined by 19.5% year-to-date, with its 52-week high at $66.91, as stated 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. Get all the essential market news and expert opinions in one place with our daily newsletter. Receive a comprehensive recap of the day's top stories directly to your inbox. Sign up here! (Kitco News) - Lundin Gold (TSX: LUG) today reported a greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (Scopes 1 and 2) intensity of 0.06 tCO2e per ounce of gold produced in 2022 from its 100% owned Fruta del Norte gold mine in Ecuador. According to a news release, based on publicly available data from 152 gold mines that reported their Scopes 1 and 2 GHG emissions in 2021 and on Lundin Gold's 2022 emissions performance, the emissions intensity of Fruta del Norte is among the lowest in the industry. The company said that by comparison, the average GHG emissions intensity of reporting underground mines was 0.42 tCO2e per ounce of gold produced in 2021. In addition, Lundin Gold announced that the company has set a target to be carbon neutral by 2030 with respect to its Scopes 1 and 2 emissions based on its current life of mine plan. "The establishment of this target is supported by a detailed analysis of the company's emissions and the identification, evaluation and prioritization of direct decarbonization opportunities," the company said. President and CEO Ron Hochstein commented, "With its incredibly low carbon footprint, Fruta del Norte continues to prove itself as a world class asset. Through our commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030, Lundin Gold is determined to maintain its position as one of the world's lowest carbon intensity gold producers." Lundin Gold, headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, owns the Fruta del Norte gold mine in southeast Ecuador. Fruta del Norte is among the highest-grade operating gold mines in the world. Get all the essential market news and expert opinions in one place with our daily newsletter. Receive a comprehensive recap of the day's top stories directly to your inbox. Sign up here! (Kitco News) - Cerrado Gold (TSX.V: CERT) reported today that its Minera Don Nicolas gold mine in Argentina produced 13,951 gold equivalent ounces (GEO) in Q1 2023, a 3% improvement year-on-year due to higher recoveries. The company said it generated revenue of $27.5 million in Q1 2023, compared to revenue of $27.4 million in Q1 2022, adding that revenue was slightly higher in Q1 2023 y-o-y due to the higher ounces sold, offset by the lower realized price in the current period. Cash costs per ounce sold were $1,139 per ounce in Q1 2023, as compared to cash costs per ounce sold of $1,049 per ounce in Q1 2022, which is a 9% increase y-o-y due to higher consumables and material costs compared to the first quarter of 2022. Adjusted EBITDA was $8.2 million in Q1 2023 as compared to $9.7 million in Q1 2022. The company explained that Q1 2023 adjusted EBITDA was slightly lower due to higher production and general and administrative costs, offset by higher cash sales in Q1 2023. Cerrado also reported net loss of $7.4 million in Q1 2023, as compared to a $3.4 million net income for the three months ended March 31, 2022, a difference of $10 million. The decrease in net income is primarily a result of an increase in tax expense of $2 million, a non-cash remeasurement loss on the secured notes and stream of $2.6 million, an increase in finance expense of $2.2 million and an increase in general and administrative expenses of $1.6 million recorded in the first quarter of 2023 as compared to the first quarter of 2022, the company said in a news release. Importantly, Cerrado noted that the work to complete the feasibility study at the Monte Do Carmo project in Brazil is progressing well with completion expected in June, adding it expects the feasibility study to demonstrate the significant value of the project. Cerrado is a Toronto based gold production, development and exploration company focused on gold projects in the Americas. The company is the 100% owner of both the producing Minera Don Nicolas mine in Santa Cruz province, Argentina, and the prospective development project, Monte do Carmo located in Tocantins State, Brazil. ZURICH, May 31 (Reuters) - Hundreds of Credit Suisse (CSGN.S)'s employees are resigning each week in a sign of uncertainty gripping the lender while it is being taken over by rival UBS (UBSG.S), two people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. Credit Suisse bankers, worried about their future are seeking safer employment at competitors, one person said. Both declined to be named because they are not authorized to speak publicly. Swiss newspaper Blick reported earlier on Wednesday that each day around 150 people worldwide were resigning from Credit Suisse while one of the two people said they saw about 200 resignations a week. UBS agreed on March 19 to take over its smaller Swiss rival as part of a rescue arranged by the Swiss authorities after a bout of market turmoil brought the struggling lender to the brink of collapse. Credit Suisse said in April that the bank's "employee attrition has been higher over the last year," and that it had just over 48,000 full-time employees at the end of the first quarter. It reported 50,480 full-time staff at the end of 2022. In an example of competitors poaching Credit Suisse's staff, Santander, Spains biggest bank, has hired at least eight bankers from Credit Suisse and was targeting more, Bloomberg News reported this month. UBS has been rushing to close the deal well before the end of this quarter, seeking swift approvals from regulators worldwide, to provide greater certainty for Credit Suisse clients and employees. Its chairman Colm Kelleher said last week it would happen "very shortly." UBS management has also said it would set a very high bar when deciding whether to retain any of Credit Suisse's investment banking staff. A banker from Credit Suisse in Zurich told Reuters the lender was in a state of flux, with its investment bank seeing the most staff departures. UBS has said it plans to wind down Credit Suisse's investment bank, which employs about 17,000 staff, and the Swiss state has pledged 9 billion Swiss franc in guarantees to cover potential losses from the operation. No day passes without receiving a goodbye email from someone across the bank, one of the two people said. At the investment bank, calls are often unanswered, he added. Following an order issued by the Swiss Finance Ministry, senior managers at Credit Suisse are having their outstanding bonus payments for 2022 either cancelled or cut, a move which contributed to staff decisions to leave the bank, the person added. The merged bank will employ 120,000 worldwide, although UBS has already said it will be cutting jobs to reduce costs. (This story has been refiled to fix a typographical error in paragraph 12) Get all the essential market news and expert opinions in one place with our daily newsletter. Receive a comprehensive recap of the day's top stories directly to your inbox. Sign up here! (Kitco News) - While some types of lithium mining can be relatively easy, processing the ore can be a challenge, said Joe Mazumdar, editor and analyst of Exploration Insights. Mazumdar spoke to Kitco in mid-May. Mazumdar surveyed the different types of lithium projects: brines, clays and hardrock. He noted that clay projects can be challenging. "Clay has been held back a while not because of the mining, but because of the metallurgy," said Mazumdar, noting that it may be easy to find clay deposits, but lithium is bound to the rock in "...a way that makes it harder to actually extract so it's going to drive up costs." Mazumdar noted that lithium prices dropped substantially in 2023, but the selloff has not been surprising. Battery-grade lithium carbonate prices tumbled 72% after China curbed EV subsidies in January, noted Reuters. "Everybody I talked to when I was looking at lithium last year was expecting a drop in the lithium carbonate-equivalent prices and that happenedprobably a little bit more severe than some people thought," said Mazumdar, adding that lithium still looks good since the energy transition is still in early innings. Mazumdar noted that large lithium projects in the United States, such as Lithium Americas, has a funding advantage over precious metals due to government support and automakers investing in the sector to secure supply. Earlier this year, Ford made a $650 million investment in Lithium Americas, which is advancing its Thacker Pass project in Nevada. JOHANNESBURG, May 31 (Reuters) - South African company profits this year will not turn negative even if the economies of the country's biggest trading partners come under pressure, a top local asset manager said on Wednesday. Old Mutual Investment Group, the asset management arm of insurer Old Mutual (OMUJ.J), believes South Africa's banks, insurance companies and globally diversified groups will cushion the recessionary pressures. More than half of South Africa's equity market is reliant on global economies, primarily China, Europe and the U.S. and hence a potential recession in these countries could hit South African equities. But Old Mutual Investment Group asset managers said that while companies' profits in South Africa will be impacted, they will not turn negative as some sectors have strong defensive qualities. Corporate earnings in South Africa could increase by up to 3% for the year ending March 2024, Jason Swartz, a portfolio manager for Old Mutual said at a conference organised by Old Mutual on Wednesday. Swartz said this was a big contrast to a 20% expected fall in earnings in the U.S. in 2024, but also a far cry from a 15% profit increase that South African companies reported a year ago. "There are defensive components in SA earnings but we are not going to get 10-15% in the next 12 months," Swartz said. Elaborating on the "defensive components," Old Mutual Investment Group's Chief Investment Officer, Siboniso Nxumalo, said he was bullish on South African banks and insurance companies. South African banks, such as FirstRand (FSRJ.J) and Standard Bank (SBKJ.J), are often considered very conservative in their lending policies, which allows them to keep bad loans in check. Nxumalo is also bullish on some companies which are considered recession proof, such as British American Tobacco , beer maker Anheuser-Busch Inbev , and luxury goods maker Richemont (CFR.S) which earn a bulk of their profits overseas. But the asset management company has exited South African companies which are expected to face the brunt of a U.S. recession, such as miners, small-cap companies and retailers, Nxumalo said. Get all the essential market news and expert opinions in one place with our daily newsletter. Receive a comprehensive recap of the day's top stories directly to your inbox. Sign up here! (Kitco News) - As the digital rupee pilot continues to progress in India, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is now informing banks throughout the country that they should prepare to adopt innovative technologies such as AI and blockchain. Mahesh Kumar Jain, the Deputy Governor of the RBI, made the recommendation during a speech titled, Governance in Banks Driving Sustainable Growth and Stability, which he presented at a conference organized by the RBI on Wednesday. The RBI Governor noted that while Indias banking system remains strong, stable and resilient through the collective efforts of the government, RBI and the banks, addressing downside risks is vital for India's journey towards becoming a developed economy. Banks are needed to mobilize savings, promote financial inclusion, and facilitate job creation by supporting MSMEs, among others, Jain said. We would like to highlight the importance of strong governance and leadership which are crucial for long-term health of the sector. To help continue progressing forward, the RBI has been increasing its focus on data analysis as a way to assess both idiosyncratic as well as systemic risks to banks. By leveraging large volumes of data and advanced analytics techniques, it is possible to gain deeper insights into risk profiles of banks and identify potential vulnerabilities, Jain said. The intention is to brief you on these initiatives so that banks can leverage on their own data analytic capabilities to make data-driven risk management decisions, improve risk assessment accuracy, and enhance their ability to anticipate risks. Jain noted that banks now face a more challenging landscape which includes technological disruptions, cybersecurity threats, evolving customer expectations, global headwinds, and the need to attract and retain talent. The ongoing Fintech revolution in banking is bringing a disruptive paradigm shift in banking services, he said. Indeed, the pace of technological changes is so rapid that banks will have to transform like technology companies continuously innovating and investing in technological upgradations. The risks of cyber-attacks, data breaches, and operational failures have also increased. He went on to highlight the recent banking struggles around the world, saying that some banks have adopted inherently risky strategies with the confidence that their bank has mitigating controls. It is important for banks to carefully assess their own unique circumstances and capabilities, conduct thorough analysis, and tailor their strategies accordingly, he said. While it can be valuable to learn from the experiences of other banks, adopting their strategies without considering the specific context and requirements of the organization may lead to unfavorable outcomes. Therefore, Boards should be cognizant of their business model and its potential downsides, both in near term and in future. To help address the evolving nature of the risks posed to the banking system, Jain recommended the building up of organizational resilience to adapt to the changing landscape and stay prepared for future risks. This includes establishing good governance, prioritizing depositors interests and maintaining their trust, gathering a competent and independent board, engaging with risk oversight, establishing a risk management framework, remaining in full compliance with laws, and keeping sustainability in mind, he said. The RBI is currently in the process of harnessing advanced analytics, artificial intelligence and machine learning to gain better insights into the operations of supervised entities. Jain said that the future of banking is expected to be shaped by advancements in technology leading to greater business and process automation, changing customer expectations, and evolving regulatory landscapes. To prepare for the future, Indian banks will need to focus on digital transformation, enhance customer experience, adopt innovative technologies such as AI and blockchain, invest in cybersecurity measures, look for opportunities to derive synergistic benefits through collaboration with other players as well as upskilling their workforce to meet the demands of the digital era. Prioritizing risk management, regulatory compliance, and sustainability were also cited by Jain as a way to ensure long-term resilience and competitiveness in the evolving banking landscape. In closing, Jain reiterated that it is the responsibility of the Boards of Directors at banks to ensure the sustainable growth and stability of the banking sector. As custodians of the interests of various stakeholders, including depositors, shareholders, regulators, and the wider society, Boards must adopt a proactive and strategic approach, Jain said. The Board must remain vigilant, adaptive, and continuously assess the bank's performance, risks, and opportunities, and take timely and informed decisions. Get all the essential market news and expert opinions in one place with our daily newsletter. Receive a comprehensive recap of the day's top stories directly to your inbox. Sign up here! (Kitco News) Looking at the latest commodity supply strategies of major economic powers, a new Cold War has already begun, according to the investment bank Liberum. And the U.S., EU, and Japan have identified critical commodities required to guarantee stable economic growth, Liberum analysts said in their latest commodity report. Now, theyre moving to secure the supply chains of these inputs, mainly by activating old trade alliances, the banks analysts Tom Price, Ben Davis and Yuen Low wrote Tuesday. There are also a lot of new U.S.-led deals happening in the critical metals space. At the May G7 meeting in Japan, U.S. President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed the Australia-US Climate, Critical Minerals, and Clean Energy Transformation Compact. The deal secures supply growth of Australias critical minerals and materials used in clean energy and defense technologies. Also, the U.S. signed up to finance Australian miners to produce selected minerals, the analysts described. Earlier this spring, the U.S. and Japan signed a critical minerals agreement to strengthen and diversify supply chains. Even for the cursory market observer out there, it must be clear whats going on here the U.S. is moving to secure supply chains of what it regards as critical inputs for its economy, the report noted. The focus is on securing supply chains for lithium and cobalt, which are used in rechargeable batteries and EVs. Whats driving this move? Chinas dominance of global commodity supply chains is not enough to explain some of the latest changes. For us, 2018s US-China tariff war [is the] primary catalyst. Why? Thats when industry players with which were connected (miners, traders, investors) first recognized new risks in the commodity world, and commodity prices responded to shifts in this new geopolitical theme and sources of project capital changed (i.e., more from the U.S., not all from China), the report said. Since then, the U.S. had to deal with COVID-related supply chain issues, Russias war in Ukraine, and increased tensions with China. Were probably at the start of a competitive push by major economies to secure raw materials supply chains involving identification/development of mineral reserves, creating/reactivating strategic political alliances, and proactive/co-ordinated stockpiling, Liberum said. The world has not witnessed mineral resource management of this scale since the last Cold War, the analysts pointed out. A critical mineral is defined by the United States Geological Survey as those with essential uses and no viable substitutes, with potential disruption in supply. What a country regards as critical must somehow reflect a collection of factors unique to that country, including domestic mineral resources (commercial or otherwise) + where they are in their own long-term economic growth cycle + strategic alliances (or conflicts) which that country has with other countries, etc., the report explained. During the first Cold War, critical minerals included beryllium, cobalt, tungsten, and titanium. They were all used for military-related reasons. That is still the case today, but now the list also includes gallium, germanium, niobium, and lithium, Liberum pointed out. It has been over 50 years since national policies by major economies were implemented to impose control over selected mineral resources and/or build strategic commodity stockpiles, the analysts noted. After the 40-year Cold War ended in the 1990s, most U.S.-related controls over remote resources were eased, and stockpiles sold off. If we really have entered a new Cold War, any activity involving securing supply inputs should initially be bullish for supply, the report added. That is, as more of the existing supply of a given commodity is set aside in strategic stockpiles, its market will tighten (assumes demand growth unchanged), lifting price (impact akin to ETF builds). Eventually, though, supply growth will lift. Focusing on lithium and cobalt, Liberum projects upside risk to the demand and price forecasts. Key prices for lithium carbonate/hydroxide products bounced off a ~$25/tfloor in late April, after falling >70% vs. Nov-22s peaks of >US$80k/t; battery feedstocks sell-off has reported to spodumene prices too, down 15-20% to U.S. $4,000/t-level by mid-May, the report said. Cobalts price has halved to below $25k/t-$12/lb (LME), and now tests the industrys marginal cost of production. Price supports are emerging. Longer-term bullish drivers for lithium include an emerging geopolitical push to secure strategic lithium reserves, project delays, and a push by some countries like Chile to nationalize supply. Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Sunshine this morning then becoming mostly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 88F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 61F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Some clouds and possibly an isolated thunderstorm this afternoon. High 88F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 30%.. Tonight Mostly clear. Low near 60F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Partly to mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 88F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 61F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG Get Rating) have earned a consensus rating of Moderate Buy from the thirty analysts that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat.com reports. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twenty-one have given a buy rating to the company. The average 1 year price target among brokerages that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $2,021.37. A number of equities analysts recently commented on the company. BTIG Research raised their target price on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $1,825.00 to $2,175.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, April 26th. UBS Group lifted their price target on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $2,050.00 to $2,250.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, April 26th. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price target on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $1,750.00 to $2,000.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, April 21st. Barclays lifted their price target on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $1,550.00 to $1,885.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, April 26th. Finally, KeyCorp increased their price target on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $1,780.00 to $1,870.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, April 6th. Get Chipotle Mexican Grill alerts: Chipotle Mexican Grill Stock Up 0.0 % Shares of CMG opened at $2,071.28 on Friday. The stock has a market cap of $57.15 billion, a P/E ratio of 56.03, a P/E/G ratio of 1.48 and a beta of 1.33. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $1,884.30 and its 200-day moving average price is $1,656.89. Chipotle Mexican Grill has a 52 week low of $1,196.28 and a 52 week high of $2,139.88. Insider Activity Chipotle Mexican Grill ( NYSE:CMG Get Rating ) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The restaurant operator reported $10.50 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $8.89 by $1.61. The business had revenue of $2.40 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.34 billion. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a net margin of 11.49% and a return on equity of 45.01%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 18.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $5.70 EPS. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Chipotle Mexican Grill will post 43.9 EPS for the current year. In other news, insider Laurie Schalow sold 3,658 shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $2,066.73, for a total transaction of $7,560,098.34. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 1,637 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,383,237.01. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In other news, insider Laurie Schalow sold 3,658 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $2,066.73, for a total value of $7,560,098.34. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 1,637 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,383,237.01. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, Director Robin S. Hickenlooper sold 74 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, May 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $2,056.73, for a total transaction of $152,198.02. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 853 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,754,390.69. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 12,259 shares of company stock valued at $24,009,271. 0.96% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Chipotle Mexican Grill Several large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its position in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 4.6% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 2,620,725 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $3,938,320,000 after buying an additional 114,699 shares in the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. boosted its stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 1.2% during the 3rd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 1,966,428 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $2,955,068,000 after purchasing an additional 23,107 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp boosted its stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 0.5% during the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 1,058,549 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $1,590,745,000 after purchasing an additional 5,450 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 1.7% during the 1st quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 565,479 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $963,779,000 after purchasing an additional 9,520 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Artisan Partners Limited Partnership boosted its stake in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 0.4% during the 4th quarter. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership now owns 507,232 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $703,779,000 after purchasing an additional 2,012 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 93.26% of the companys stock. Chipotle Mexican Grill Company Profile (Get Rating) Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc engages in the development and operation of classically-cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. It offers a focused menu of burritos, tacos, burrito bowls, and salads prepared using classic cooking methods. The company was founded by Steve Ells in 1993 and is headquartered in Newport Beach, CA. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Chipotle Mexican Grill Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chipotle Mexican Grill and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Forestar Group Inc. (NYSE:FOR Get Rating) was the target of a significant increase in short interest during the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 444,100 shares, an increase of 20.6% from the April 30th total of 368,300 shares. Approximately 2.4% of the shares of the company are short sold. Based on an average trading volume of 110,400 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 4.0 days. Insider Transactions at Forestar Group In other news, Director G.F. (Rick) Ringler III sold 2,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $20.12, for a total value of $40,240.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 7,267 shares in the company, valued at $146,212.04. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. 0.25% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Get Forestar Group alerts: Hedge Funds Weigh In On Forestar Group Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of FOR. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its stake in shares of Forestar Group by 2,293.6% during the 4th quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 401,976 shares of the oil and gas exploration companys stock worth $6,194,000 after purchasing an additional 385,182 shares in the last quarter. Heartland Advisors Inc. grew its holdings in Forestar Group by 80.7% in the 3rd quarter. Heartland Advisors Inc. now owns 849,800 shares of the oil and gas exploration companys stock valued at $9,509,000 after buying an additional 379,550 shares in the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. acquired a new position in Forestar Group in the 1st quarter valued at $35,000. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP grew its holdings in Forestar Group by 11.5% in the 1st quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 1,366,272 shares of the oil and gas exploration companys stock valued at $21,257,000 after buying an additional 141,122 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Venator Capital Management Ltd. acquired a new position in Forestar Group in the 1st quarter valued at $2,101,000. 35.02% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Forestar Group Stock Up 0.2 % FOR has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. TheStreet raised Forestar Group from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a report on Monday, April 17th. Citigroup lifted their price objective on Forestar Group from $21.00 to $22.00 in a research report on Friday, April 21st. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on Forestar Group in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $17.17. Shares of FOR traded up $0.04 on Tuesday, hitting $19.78. The companys stock had a trading volume of 188,418 shares, compared to its average volume of 110,403. The company has a quick ratio of 1.33, a current ratio of 1.33 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.57. The firms fifty day moving average price is $17.62 and its 200-day moving average price is $15.91. Forestar Group has a fifty-two week low of $10.28 and a fifty-two week high of $20.79. The firm has a market capitalization of $987.02 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.12 and a beta of 1.63. Forestar Group Company Profile (Get Rating) Forestar Group Inc is a residential lot development company, which engages in the provision of real estate business. The firm focuses on making investments in land acquisition and development to sell finished single-family residential lots to homebuilders. The company was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Arlington, TX. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Forestar Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Forestar Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. reduced its holdings in shares of Bank of Hawaii Co. (NYSE:BOH Get Rating) by 0.4% during the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 855,442 shares of the banks stock after selling 3,236 shares during the period. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc.s holdings in Bank of Hawaii were worth $66,348,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in BOH. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Bank of Hawaii by 5,445.5% in the 3rd quarter. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC now owns 610 shares of the banks stock valued at $46,000 after buying an additional 599 shares in the last quarter. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd purchased a new stake in Bank of Hawaii in the 3rd quarter valued at $53,000. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. raised its position in Bank of Hawaii by 128.9% in the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 698 shares of the banks stock valued at $53,000 after purchasing an additional 393 shares during the last quarter. Covestor Ltd raised its position in Bank of Hawaii by 72.4% in the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 707 shares of the banks stock valued at $59,000 after purchasing an additional 297 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Captrust Financial Advisors raised its position in Bank of Hawaii by 91.0% in the 1st quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 938 shares of the banks stock valued at $79,000 after purchasing an additional 447 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.29% of the companys stock. Get Bank of Hawaii alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research firms recently commented on BOH. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Bank of Hawaii to a sell rating in a research report on Wednesday. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their price target on shares of Bank of Hawaii from $83.00 to $60.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 6th. TheStreet downgraded shares of Bank of Hawaii from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 4th. Finally, DA Davidson cut their price objective on shares of Bank of Hawaii from $76.00 to $55.00 in a research report on Monday, March 20th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and three have issued a hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $66.25. Insider Activity Bank of Hawaii Stock Performance In related news, Director Alicia E. Moy purchased 4,200 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, May 1st. The stock was acquired at an average price of $47.90 per share, for a total transaction of $201,180.00. Following the acquisition, the director now directly owns 10,482 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $502,087.80. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website . In other Bank of Hawaii news, Director Kent Thomas Lucien acquired 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, May 12th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $32.29 per share, with a total value of $32,290.00. Following the purchase, the director now owns 5,500 shares in the company, valued at $177,595. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink . Also, Director Alicia E. Moy acquired 4,200 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, May 1st. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $47.90 per share, for a total transaction of $201,180.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now owns 10,482 shares in the company, valued at approximately $502,087.80. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here . Insiders own 2.11% of the companys stock. Bank of Hawaii stock traded down $1.79 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $38.22. 131,229 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 698,732. The stock has a market cap of $1.52 billion, a P/E ratio of 7.55, a P/E/G ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 0.97. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43, a quick ratio of 0.66 and a current ratio of 0.66. Bank of Hawaii Co. has a 52-week low of $30.83 and a 52-week high of $85.45. The firms 50 day moving average is $45.58 and its 200 day moving average is $64.80. Bank of Hawaii (NYSE:BOH Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday, April 24th. The bank reported $1.14 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.23 by ($0.09). The company had revenue of $229.07 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $177.67 million. Bank of Hawaii had a net margin of 26.90% and a return on equity of 19.01%. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.32 EPS. Analysts predict that Bank of Hawaii Co. will post 4.29 EPS for the current fiscal year. Bank of Hawaii Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, June 14th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, May 31st will be issued a $0.70 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, May 30th. This represents a $2.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 7.33%. Bank of Hawaiis dividend payout ratio is presently 52.83%. About Bank of Hawaii (Get Rating) Bank of Hawaii Corp. is a bank holding company, which engages in the provision of financial services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking, Commercial Banking, and Treasury and Other. The Consumer Banking segment offers financial products and services, including loan, deposit and insurance products, private banking and international client banking services, trust services, investment management, and institutional investment advisory services. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BOH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bank of Hawaii Co. (NYSE:BOH Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Bank of Hawaii Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of Hawaii and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Industrias Bachoco (NYSE:IBA Get Rating) in a research note released on Saturday. The brokerage issued a buy rating on the stock. Separately, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered shares of Industrias Bachoco from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and set a $56.00 target price on the stock. in a research note on Wednesday, February 22nd. Get Industrias Bachoco alerts: Industrias Bachoco Price Performance NYSE:IBA opened at $53.00 on Friday. Industrias Bachoco has a one year low of $38.04 and a one year high of $66.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06, a quick ratio of 2.68 and a current ratio of 3.78. The firm has a market cap of $2.65 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.62 and a beta of 0.72. The firms fifty day moving average is $56.32 and its two-hundred day moving average is $53.86. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Industrias Bachoco Company Profile Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Wells Fargo & Company MN raised its position in shares of Industrias Bachoco by 7.3% during the 4th quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 3,305 shares of the companys stock worth $169,000 after purchasing an additional 226 shares during the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Industrias Bachoco during the 1st quarter worth about $27,000. Luken Investment Analytics LLC acquired a new position in shares of Industrias Bachoco during the 4th quarter worth about $25,000. Invesco Ltd. raised its position in shares of Industrias Bachoco by 2.6% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 20,490 shares of the companys stock worth $957,000 after purchasing an additional 525 shares during the last quarter. Finally, UBS Group AG acquired a new position in shares of Industrias Bachoco during the 4th quarter worth about $39,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 3.08% of the companys stock. (Get Rating) Industrias Bachoco SAB de CV is a holding company, which engages breeding, processing, marketing poultry, such as chicken, eggs, balanced feed, swine, and other products. It operates through Poultry and Other segments. The Poultry segment includes chicken and egg operations. The Other segment consists of operations of swine, balanced feed for animal consumption and other by-products. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Industrias Bachoco Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Industrias Bachoco and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF (NYSEARCA:IBDO Get Rating)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $25.28 and last traded at $25.28, with a volume of 268169 shares. The stock had previously closed at $25.24. iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF Trading Up 0.2 % The company has a 50-day moving average price of $25.19 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $25.11. Get iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF alerts: Institutional Trading of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Ten Capital Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $35,000. Independence Bank of Kentucky purchased a new stake in iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $50,000. Parallel Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $50,000. Mascoma Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF by 99.3% during the 4th quarter. Mascoma Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,493 shares of the companys stock valued at $87,000 after purchasing an additional 1,740 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Horan Securities Inc. purchased a new stake in iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $132,000. iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF Company Profile 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. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. National Australia Bank Limited (OTCMKTS:NABZY Get Rating) reached a new 52-week low during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as low as $8.21 and last traded at $8.36, with a volume of 575780 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $8.55. National Australia Bank Stock Down 2.2 % The firms 50-day simple moving average is $9.16 and its 200 day simple moving average is $9.95. Get National Australia Bank alerts: National Australia Bank Increases Dividend The firm also recently announced a dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, July 12th. Investors of record on Monday, May 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.2666 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, May 12th. This is a positive change from National Australia Banks previous dividend of $0.24. This represents a yield of 5.74%. National Australia Bank Company Profile National Australia Bank Ltd. engages in the provision of banking and financial services. Its services include banking, credit and access card facilities, leasing, housing and general finance, international banking, investment banking, wealth management, funds management and custodian, trustee and nominee services. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for National Australia Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for National Australia Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc (OTCMKTS:RYCEY Get Rating) have been assigned an average recommendation of Moderate Buy from the eleven research firms that are currently covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and five have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average twelve-month price target among brokers that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $125.00. A number of research firms recently weighed in on RYCEY. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from GBX 70 ($0.87) to GBX 90 ($1.11) in a research report on Friday, February 24th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lifted their price objective on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from GBX 136 ($1.68) to GBX 160 ($1.98) in a research report on Wednesday, March 1st. Bank of America raised shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from an underperform rating to a buy rating in a research report on Monday, February 27th. UBS Group raised shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 8th. Finally, Barclays lowered shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 7th. Get Rolls-Royce Holdings plc alerts: Institutional Investors Weigh In On Rolls-Royce Holdings plc A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in RYCEY. SYSTM Wealth Solutions LLC bought a new stake in shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc in the 4th quarter worth approximately $329,000. OLD Mission Capital LLC bought a new stake in Rolls-Royce Holdings plc during the 1st quarter valued at $385,000. OLD National Bancorp IN bought a new stake in Rolls-Royce Holdings plc during the 1st quarter valued at $77,000. FineMark National Bank & Trust bought a new stake in Rolls-Royce Holdings plc during the 1st quarter valued at $30,000. Finally, Atlas Wealth LLC bought a new stake in Rolls-Royce Holdings plc during the 1st quarter valued at $25,000. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Trading Down 2.0 % About Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Shares of OTCMKTS RYCEY opened at $1.76 on Friday. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $1.83 and a 200-day moving average price of $1.48. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc has a 1 year low of $0.71 and a 1 year high of $1.94. (Get Rating) Rolls-Royce Holdings Plc designs, develops, manufactures, and services integrated power systems for use in the air, on land, and at sea. The company operates its business through following segments: Civil Aerospace, Power Systems, Defense and ITP Aero. The Civil Aerospace segment offers commercial aero engines and aftermarket services. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Albion, IN (46701) Today Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. Hazy. High 82F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Partly to mostly cloudy. Low near 55F. Winds light and variable. LINCOLN A pair of Nebraska lawmakers are joining a national push to make Washington, D.C. the nations 51st state. Legislative Resolution 146, introduced by Lincoln State Sens. Danielle Conrad and George Dungan, would urge Nebraskas congressional delegation to support statehood for the nations capital if passed by the full Legislature. This would be a non-binding encouragement to U.S. Reps. Mike Flood, Don Bacon and Adrian Smith and U.S. Sens. Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts. Conrad described the resolution, introduced on May 11, as a way to strengthen the countrys democracy and ensure equal rights for all its citizens. I think that each state has a part to play, as do our federal representatives to try and correct a historic wrong in regards to the legal status of the residents in our nations capital, Conrad told the Nebraska Examiner. Washington, D.C. has one non-voting delegate in the U.S. House of Representatives, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, and no Senate representation. Encouragement and incentive Dungan said the importance of direct representation is also in allowing the district to adopt its own rules and regulations without being mired in national politics. Congress has a sort of veto power over D.C. laws, such as those passed by the D.C. City Council, and it is able to reject some of those laws in a way similar to a governor for state action or president for congressional action. For example, the U.S. House in February passed a resolution defeating proposed changes that D.C. officials wanted to make to local immigration and criminal penalty policies. Congress has also used its power to pass provisions prohibiting the sale of marijuana and banning the district from using Medicaid funds to fund abortions for low-income residents. Dungan said the resolution is essentially encouragement and incentive. We cant bind people to anything, obviously, with an LR, but I think that the information contained in the resolution, if read, is certainly compelling, Dungan said. Conrad, the former head of the ACLU of Nebraska, noted that D.C. has a significant Black population, so the conversation is also about civil rights. I just really feel like its important to put our politics aside and try and address that historical injustice, because its just a matter of fundamental fairness for me, Conrad said. Legal questions of statehood The U.S. House has passed two historic resolutions in support of D.C. statehood, for the first time in June 2020 and again in April 2021. Bacon and former U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry voted against both, while Smith voted against it in 2020 but did not vote on the 2021 resolution. No similar legislation has come up for a vote during Floods time in office nor in the U.S. Senate for Fischer or Ricketts. In a 2021 statement, Bacon said there are three issues with D.C. statehood, including a specific clause in the U.S. Constitution and the Twenty-Third Amendment. Article I, Section 8, Clause 17 of the Constitution addresses the size of the federal district while the Twenty-Third Amendment afforded presidential electors to D.C. Bacon said he could not support statehood unless changes were made to that clause and amendment. Conrad said the legal questions are important to the dialogue but have been unequivocally answered by historians and legal scholars. Its important to update the legal framework, Conrad said, but D.C. residents deserve full and equal political participation and representation. Its just really that simple, she said. She encouraged Nebraskas congressional delegation to keep an open mind and to think deeply about how everyone can work to ensure full and equal voting rights and representation. A seat at the table Bacon also criticized past efforts as a liberal political power grab, with the goal of adding two more Democrats to the Senate. However, Conrad and Dungan, two registered Democrats in the officially nonpartisan Legislature, pushed back and said its about representation, not politics. D.C. residents have voted in favor of statehood in the past, and the states population is larger than Wyoming and Vermont and comparable to Alaska and North Dakota. Dungan said he lived in D.C. for a while, including going to law school before coming back to Nebraska. It comes from a real deep-seated desire to have people have their voices heard, Dungan said. Thats kind of been my Northstar for a lot of my politics is making sure people have their voices heard. Conrad said that due to the dynamics of the 2023 session, and with just about a week left in the session, she has asked that the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee wait for a substantive hearing until 2024. Well look forward to digging into the issue more over the interim and trying to build support for that hearing next year, Conrad said. Puerto Rico status Some have brought up the issue of what to do with the territory of Puerto Rico in addition to D.C. statehood. Nebraska Sens. Danielle Conrad and George Dungan, both of Lincoln, said the issues are related but carry different historical and legal issues than D.C. Still, they agreed, representation is critical. In December 2022, U.S. Rep. Don Bacon supported a measure for the people of Puerto Rico to determine their next steps forward, whether that be statehood, independence or independence followed by free association with the U.S. U.S. Reps. Mike Flood and Adrian Smith voted against the act, and it was not considered in the Senate. Conrad said she has not yet had a chance to explore with colleagues how state legislators could try and raise similar matters for Puerto Rico. However, she definitely would be open to exploring that either in tandem with this effort next year or separately if it would be helpful to educating people about these issues and trying to build support for them. The post Nebraska lawmakers introduce resolution to encourage Washington, D.C. statehood appeared first on Nebraska Examiner. Kendallville, IN (46755) Today Partly cloudy skies. Hazy. High 82F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low 56F. Winds light and variable. [Trigger Warning: Mentions of Sexual Assault, Harassment, Rape] Twenty-five-year-old male K-pop idol, who was in a 6-member group, received sentence after allegedly assaulting his co-member for four years. K-pop Idol Receives 3-Year Suspended Prison Sentence for Charges of Sexual Assault K-pop idol "A," who was charged with molestation and rape with a fellow member, has received his sentence. On May 30, the Seoul Central District Court's 29th Criminal Agreement Division (Chief Judge Kim Seung Jung) released the news that male idol A, who was handed over to trial on charges of forced harassment and rape was sentenced to a suspended prison term in the first trial. With this, he will be put on three-year probation, and two and a half years in prison if he will not abide by the requirements set by the court. The Seoul Court also ordered the male idol's completion of an 80-hour sexual violence treatment program. The court said: "The crime quality is very bad in light of the method and number of crimes and the age of the victim." The chief judge then explained the reason for the sentence, saying: "The sentence was decided in consideration of the fact that A generally reflected on his wrongdoings and reached an agreement with the victim." To protect the victim and other members of the group, the identity of the male idol A wasn't revealed, aside from the fact that he's 25 years old and a former member of a six-member K-pop group. Here's What Happened To Male Idol's Sexual Assualt Controversy The male idol's sexual assault case was publicized when he was indicted on charges of "touching" a fellow team member in their practice room and trainees' accommodation. A, who was 19 at the time, committed wrongdoings at least three times from 2017 to 2021. In 2021, the victim reported the abuse to the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul, and the culprit was indicted for indecent assault and similar rape in January. A quietly left the group for "personal reasons" in the same year. Later on, the company would claim that they were investigating the matter and would release an official statement. On the other hand, during the trial, A admitted and reflected on the charges of forced harassment, but denied the charges of similar rape. He claimed that he really couldn't remember most of the charges because he was under the influence of alcohol. Upon hearing this news, K-pop fans sympathized with the victim and hoped that he was going to win the case. They continued by calling out K-pop companies to strengthen their protection against sexual harassment and assault cases, especially for their young trainees. Unfortunately, experts emphasized that while the trainees are under the supervision of their agencies, the company is not considered an employment or educational institution; thus, they don't have the duty to prevent or protect trainees from sex crimes. For more K-Pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz. KpopStarz owns this article. Written by Eunice Dawson. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Who is covered by these proposals? The proposals cover adults who, by reason of an impairment or insufficiency of their personal faculties, are not in a position to protect their own interests. This impairment or insufficiency can be permanent or temporary, of a physical or psychosocial nature (e.g., intellectual disability, psychiatric illness), in connection with an age-related disease, such as Alzheimer's disease, or resulting from a health condition, such as a coma. To ensure their protection and support in exercising their rights, those adults can be under a protection measure taken by a court or an administrative authority or supported by someone who they have appointed in advance (through powers of representation') to manage their interests. They may have given directions in advance regarding their representation or medical treatments. Where those adults are in a cross-border situation involving more than one country, the Commission's proposals will provide uniform rules applicable in those situations. What are the objectives of the Commission proposals? The two proposals have the following objectives: to protect rights, including fundamental rights, such as the right to autonomy, access to justice, equality, the right to be heard, right to property and right to free movement; to strengthen legal certainty and predictability in cross-border situations; and to improve the effectiveness and speed of cross-border proceedings concerning the protection of adults. To that effect, common EU rules applicable to cross-border cases concerning the protection of adults are necessary, in particular to establish which court has jurisdiction, which law is applicable, under what conditions a foreign measure or a foreign document granting powers of representation or containing advance directives should be given effect and how authorities can cooperate. What does this package include? Today's package consists of proposals for: a Regulation that will govern cross-border cases for the protection of adults among EU countries; and a Council Decision that will oblige EU countries to become or remain parties to the Hague 2000 Protection of Adults Convention. The proposed Regulation introduces a streamlined set of rules that will apply within the EU, building upon the principles of the 2000 Hague Convention on the International Protection of Adults, and existing EU rules on judicial cooperation in other areas. It proposes new measures, such as facilitating digital communication, introducing a European Certificate of Representation, establishing interconnected registers, and promoting closer cooperation among authorities. At the same time, the proposal for a Council Decision provides a uniform legal framework for protecting adults involving non-EU countries, by obliging all Member States to join or remain parties to the Hague 2000 Protection of Adults Convention. How will the European Certificate of Representation work? The proposal for a Regulation establishes a European Certificate of Representation that can be requested and used by representatives supporting adults in the protection of their interests. It will enable those representatives to show easily and efficiently that they legitimately have the authority to represent the adult in another Member State, in particular when they need to deal with non-judicial actors, such as banks or healthcare institutions. The Certificate will be valid for a limited time to ensure that the information included in the Certificate remains up to date and reliable. It will be optional for representatives to request the Certificate, but EU authorities will be required to issue it if requested by a representative. In addition, the form for the European Certificate of Representation will be provided in all EU official languages, which will significantly reduce translation costs. Will the proposals improve the rights of persons with disabilities? The objective of these two proposals is to facilitate the lives of persons who cannot protect their own interests (personal or financial). Not all persons with disabilities need support in protecting their interests and therefore a number of persons with disabilities are not concerned by this initiative. In addition, some persons who do not have any type of disability are covered by the proposals (in particular where their need for legal support is temporary, or is due to their age). These proposals will apply to the cross-border protection of adults who are not in a position to protect their own interests and will further safeguard their rights, in particular their right to autonomy and to free movement and access to justice. It will ensure that their protection is continuous across the borders, and that, if they had expressed their will in advance in one EU country, it is respected in all other EU countries. Why is it necessary to ensure cross-border access to registers with information concerning the protection of adults? In practice, it is often necessary to verify whether a protection measure exists concerning a person or whether this person has drawn up powers of representation' appointing someone in advance to manage his or her interests. In many EU countries, registers of protection measures or of registers of powers of representation exist and include such information. However, those registers are generally not accessible to authorities of other Member States now. Those foreign authorities thus lack efficient means how to verify whether a person is protected in another EU country or whether he or she has established powers of representation abroad. This may currently lead to situations where a foreign protection measure or the will expressed by the adult in the powers of representation are not respected in cross-border situations. To avoid the failure to take account of the protection existing in other EU countries, registers of protection measures and of powers of representation should be interconnected at the EU level. This will require that Member States that do not currently have registers will have to set them up. Member States' registers will then be interconnected at the EU level. This will ensure that authorities of one EU country will be able to efficiently receive an information that a particular adult is protected in another EU country. The interconnected registers will include a minimum set of data to provide general information about the existence of protection in relation to a specific adult and they will not be publicly accessible, only to authorities with a legitimate interest. Will these proposals change the national law of EU countries? No, the proposals do not affect national law of EU countries concerning the protection of adults (such as rules governing the types of protection measures and their consequences, powers that a representative of an adult may have and their limitations). The proposals only include rules that will apply in cross-border cases and answer the following questions: which country's courts have jurisdiction to take a protection measure concerning an adult? which country's law will apply to the protection of an adult who has links with more than one country? how can a protection measure, powers of representation or advance directives have effect in other countries? how can authorities of different countries cooperate and exchange information with each other concerning the protection of adults? For More Information Press release Proposal for a Regulation on jurisdiction, applicable law, recognition and enforcement of measures and cooperation in matters relating to the protection of adults + Annexes Proposal for a Council decision authorising Member States to become or remain parties, in the interest of the European Union, to the Convention of 13 January 2000 on the International Protection of Adults + Annex Zarazeno st 31.05.2023 11:05:00 Zdroj Evropska komise en Original ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/api/documents?reference=QANDA/23/2956&language=en lang en Press Release May 31, 2023 Sponsorship Speech of Sen. Cynthia Villar Resolution expressing deepest sympathy and sincere condolences of the Senate of the Philippines on the Death of Governor Carlos M. Padilla of Nueva Vizcaya. 31 May 2023 Mr. President, my esteemed colleagues in the Senate . . . I stand before you today with a heavy heart to sponsor our Resolution, expressing our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences on the passing of Governor Carlos "Caloy" M. Padilla of Nueva Vizcaya. He was a stalwart of the Nacionalista Party and held in high regard by his colleagues and constituents for his warmth, quiet dignity, and genuine dedication to public service. I had the privilege of first working with Gov. Padilla during my term as a Congresswoman when he served as the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives. He graciously shared his wisdom and exemplified learned insight, diplomacy, and unwavering integrity in fulfilling his responsibilities. Gov. Padilla demonstrated strong leadership and was a true statesman, embodying the very essence of the Nacionalista Party's motto, 'Ang Bayan Higit sa Lahat!' He wholeheartedly worked towards the progress and improvement of our country, always prioritizing the well-being of the people. Governor Padilla's remarkable political career encompassed various positions. He began his journey in public service as the Mayor of the Municipality of Dupax and later of Dupax Del Norte. However, it was in the legislative department that he showed his mettle, becoming a seasoned veteran. He dedicated a total of twenty-nine (29) years to faithfully fulfilling his duties and responsibilities as a legislator representing the lone district of Nueva Vizcaya. This included serving six (6) years as an Assemblyman and twenty-three (23) years as a Member of the House of Representatives. He held notable roles such as Deputy Speaker during the Eleventh Congress and Minority Floor Leader during the Twelfth Congress. Additionally, he chaired the Committees on Education and Indigenous People and served as a member of the Commission on Appointments and the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal. His authorship of significant laws, including the Free Public Secondary Education Act, the Philippine Librarianship Act, and the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education Act, earned him the well-deserved title of the "Father of Free Public Secondary Education." He has always been a strong advocate for the accessibility of quality education, and in his province, he played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Nueva Vizcaya State University and the Philippine Science High School - Cagayan Valley Campus. After his illustrious career in the legislature, Carlos Padilla was elected as the Governor of the Province of Nueva Vizcaya for three terms until his untimely demise. As Governor, his affinity for the Novo Vizcayanos was unparalleled as he consistently demonstrated his deep connection and genuine care for the welfare of the people. He spearheaded numerous programs focusing on education, infrastructure projects, sustainable livelihood programs, agri-fishery development, and clean energy, among others. His relentless efforts to improve the lives of the people of Nueva Vizcaya have left an indelible mark on the province, solidifying his legacy of service and dedication. Governor Padilla, known as "The Legend of the North," received several prestigious awards for his exceptional leadership and significant contributions. He was recognized as the "Most Outstanding Congressman" in multiple congresses, honored as an outstanding alumnus of his alma mater, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, and received the esteemed "Dangal ng Wika Award" for promoting the Filipino language, among other accolades. To my family, Manny and I, he will forever be Caloy or Tito Caloy to my children -- a dear friend whose warmth and kindness will always be cherished and whose departure has left a void that we deeply feel. Let us honor his memory and pay tribute to his remarkable achievements. To his beloved wife and my friend Ruth, and their children Carlos "Jojo" II, Ruthie Maye, and Carlo Paolo, I share in your grief. My colleagues in this esteemed body and I extend our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to all of you and to the people of Nueva Vizcaya as well. May Caloy Padilla's legacy continue to inspire us to live an inspiring and meaningful life, as he exemplified throughout his remarkable journey. Thank you, Mr. President ATK New Delhi [India], May 31: In the rapidly evolving realm of cryptocurrencies, it has become essential for individuals seeking lucrative opportunities to prioritize secure and strategic investments. This article explores the rules and regulations governing crypto investments, platform security, with a particular focus on Dogetti (DETI), a distinctive participant in the market. Our aim is to present readers with a blend of informative and entertaining content, offering insights, education, and updates on the crypto market, while emphasizing the crucial aspect of security. Join us as we delve into Dogetti's implementation of security measures and draw comparisons with other industry players. Also Read | World No Tobacco Day 2023 Wishes & Slogans: Greetings and Messages for the Day That Spreads Awareness Regarding the Harmful Effects of Tobacco. Dogetti embraces the concept of building a strong and united community of holders. Inspired by mafia-themed books and films, Dogetti refers to its community as "The Family," aiming to establish a sense of togetherness and uniqueness. By branding themselves as a family, Dogetti aims to make users and buyers feel like they are part of something special. The main objective of the project is to increase the net worth of every family member. Dogetti's security measures are designed to provide peace of mind to its community. The platform utilizes blockchain technology, a decentralized and immutable ledger, to ensure transparency and security in all transactions. The blockchain's distributed nature makes it highly resistant to hacking attempts, protecting users' investments and personal information. Also Read | French Open 2023: Bianca Andreescu Overcomes Victoria Azarenka 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 in First Round. Dogetti's 2 per cent reflection protocol is a notable feature that sets it apart. This protocol rewards holders by redistributing a portion of each transaction back to them. This approach incentivizes long-term holding and fosters a strong sense of loyalty within the community. DogettiDAO, another key aspect, allows family members to actively participate in the project's decision-making process, ensuring that the community's voice is heard. Platform Security and the Crypto Landscape When it comes to investing in cryptocurrencies, security should be a top priority. While the crypto market has seen significant advancements in security measures, it is essential to evaluate different platforms' security protocols. Many established cryptocurrency exchanges and platforms have implemented robust security measures, including two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage wallets, and encryption technologies. These measures provide layers of protection against potential hacks and unauthorized access. Additionally, regulatory compliance is crucial for platforms to establish trust and ensure the safety of investors' funds. However, it's worth noting that the crypto market has also witnessed the emergence of meme coins and new cryptocurrencies that may lack the same level of security as established platforms. Investors must exercise caution and conduct thorough research before investing in such coins. Dogetti understands the importance of security in the crypto space and has taken significant steps to prioritize it. The platform undergoes regular security audits to identify and address any vulnerabilities promptly. By working with reputable auditing firms, Dogetti demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a secure environment for its community. Moreover, Dogetti's focus on community empowerment sets it apart from many other platforms. The inclusion of DogettiDAO allows community members to actively participate in decision-making processes, making them an integral part of shaping the project's future. This democratic approach fosters trust and strengthens the bond within The Family. As the crypto market continues to evolve, security remains a crucial aspect for investors. Dogetti's implementation of blockchain technology, the 2 per cent reflection protocol, and the active involvement of the community through DogettiDAO showcases its dedication to security and community empowerment. While Dogetti stands out with its unique branding and emphasis on the strength of The Family, it is essential for investors to carefully assess the security measures of any platform they choose to invest in. By conducting thorough research, understanding the rules and regulations, and prioritizing platform security, investors can make informed decisions in the crypto landscape. To explore the opportunities offered by Dogetti and join The Family, visit their website at https://dogetti.io/. Take the first step toward being part of a united community that prioritizes security and strives to increase the net worth of all its members. Check out Dogetti below: Presale: https://dogetti.io/how-to-buy Website: https://dogetti.io/ Telegram: https://t.me/Dogetti Twitter: https://twitter.com/_Dogetti_ (Disclaimer: The above press release has been provided by ATK. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) The Flash director Andy Muschietti has made it clear that he will not recast Ezra Miller if Warner Bros. decides to make a sequel to the upcoming superhero feature. Miller, who identifies as non-binary and goes by they/them pronouns, made headlines last year for a string of arrests and erratic behaviour. The actor reprises the role of Barry Allen aka The Flash in Muschietti's The Flash, which is set to be released in theatres worldwide in June, after playing the character in 2017's Justice League. The Flash: Director Andy Muschietti Feels No One Can Replace Ezra Miller if There's a Sequel to the Flick!. If (a sequel) happens, yes. I don't think there's anyone that can play that character as well as they did," the filmmaker said during his appearance on The Discourse podcast. "The other depictions of the character are great, but this particular vision of the character, they just excelled in doing it. And, as you said, the two Barrys it feels like a character that was made for them," he added. The Flash producer Barbara Muschietti said the actor was "brilliant and the most committed and the most professional" during the filming of the movie. "Ezra gave everything for this role physically, creatively, emotionally. They were absolutely supreme," she added. The Flash Trailer 2: Ezra Miller's Barry Allen Breaks the Universe In New Look at the Upcoming DC Film (Watch Video). In 2020, the actor made headlines after a recording surfaced in which they appeared to be choking a woman outside of a bar in Iceland. Miller was arrested twice last year in Hawaii, for disorderly conduct and harassment at a karaoke bar and then for second-degree assault. In a statement last August, the actor had said that they had been seeking treatment for complex mental health issues". Lower cost for energy imports such as natural gas have led to the sharpest drop in import prices since October 2009.The index of German import pricessaw the largest decrease in April since the global financial crisis in 2009, amid cheaper energy prices. Imports fell by an average of seven percent compared to the same month last year, the German Statistical Office announced on Wednesday. Also Read | India News | No Supportive Evidence to Prove Wrestlers Claim, Say Delhi Police Sources. This was the sharpest drop in import prices since October 2009, when the financial crisis triggered a global economic slump. Also Read | Business News | Crypto in a Bite: ETH Supply Gets Scarce, KAVA 13 Upgrades Mainnet, and Big Eyes Coin Unveils Gaming-Crypto Fusion. "The decisive factor for the decline is primarily a base effect due to the high price level in the previous year because of the war in Ukraine," the statisticians explained the trend. Economists polled by the Reuters news agency had expected a drop of only 5.8 percent. March had seen the first year-on-year decline since January 2021 at minus 3.8 percent. Cheaper energy prices a significant factor Currently, energy imports were 31.8 percent cheaper than in April 2022. A drop in the price of imported natural gas which fell by 38.7 percent contributed to this. Coal, electricity petroleum products and oil were also considerably cheaper. In contrast, prices for imported consumer goods rose by 4.6 per cent. Prices for fruit and vegetable products as well as meat and meat products rose particularly sharply. The German Statistical Office is set to publish a first official estimate on the cost of living and prices for consumer goods on Wednesday afternoon. While you're here: Every Tuesday, DW editors round up what is happening in German politics and society. You can sign up here for the weekly email newsletter Berlin Briefing. los/kb (dpa, Reuters) (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2023 01:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Chandigarh (Punjab) [India], May 31 (ANI): Punjab minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Inderbir Singh Nijjar tendered his resignation from the Council of Ministers on Tuesday citing personal reasons, said officials. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann forwarded the resignation of Local Government Minister Nijjer from the Council of Ministers to Governor Banwari Lal Purohit for early acceptance. Also Read | Germany: Young Escaped Llama Killed by Train. Informing about the development, a spokesperson for the Chief Minister's Office said that in a communique to the Governor, Bhagwant Mann has impressed upon him to accept the resignation of the Local Government Minister, who has resigned from Cabinet on personal grounds. The spokesperson said following the resignation of Nijjar, two new ministers will be appointed in the Punjab cabinet. Also Read | PM Narendra Modi Meets Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Assures To Strengthen Bilateral Ties. "The Chief Minister has proposed the names of Balkar Singh, MLA from Kartarpur, and Gurmeet Singh Khudian, MLA from Lambi, for being inducted as cabinet ministers," said an official. Both the ministers may be sworn in at 11 am on Wednesday. "He (Mann) had requested the Governor to accord kind approval to administer the Oath of Office and Secrecy to the new Ministers at 11 am on May 31 in Punjab Raj Bhawan, Chandigarh," the official added. Nijjar was an MLA from the Amritsar South Assembly constituency of Punjab. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Azamgarh (UP), May 31 (PTI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday that women wrestlers' complaint against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Singh is being probed and action will be taken once the investigation is over. Some of the country's top wrestlers have been protesting against Brij Bhushan Singh, a BJP MP, demanding his sacking from the federation and his arrest. The Delhi Police has registered two FIRs against him and is probing the case. Also Read | Ukraine Updates: Zelenskyy Praises Germanys determination. "The matter is being investigated. The government will take action in the matter once the investigation is over," the defence minister told reporters. He was in the district to attended a family function. Also Read | Madhya Pradesh: Seven More Cheetahs To Be Released Into Wild at Kuno National Park by June Third Week. He also said all political parties should have attended the inauguration of the new Parliament building by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. "The inauguration of new Lok Sabha Bhawan was a public event which should have been attended by all political parties. It was not a session of the House. It was a matter of pride for the country," the defence minister said. The Congress and 20 other parties boycotted the inauguration of the building by the prime minister, saying it was an insult to President Droupadi Murmu, a tribal woman, that she was not invited by the government to do the honours. Rajnath Singh said the nation has progressed under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi in recent years and there is a marked decline in unemployment. He said the benefits of government schemes have reached everyone and the NDA (National Democratic Alliance) will again form the government with a majority in the 2024 general elections. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Srinagar, May 31 (PTI) Jammu and Kashmir has been allotted an additional 1.99 lakh houses under the 'Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojna-Gramin' (PMAY-G) by the Centre to saturate the 'AwaasPlus' permanent waiting list of the Union Territory during 2023-24, officials said on Wednesday. They said the newly targeted houses will be sanctioned by the Rural Development Department by June 30. Also Read | Mumbai Water Cut News Update: Water Supply To Remain Disrupted As BMC Undertakes Major Waterworks in Santacruz; Check List of Affected Areas, Dates and Timings. The massive allocation for J-K by the Union Ministry of Rural Development, under the flagship scheme, is the highest across all UTs in India, an official spokesman said. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Rural Development Giriraj Singh for giving top priority to the Union Territory and fulfilling the dreams of lakhs of families. Also Read | Mumbai Shocker: Woman Critical After Being Set Ablaze by Man in Dharavi; Accused Arrested. "Extremely grateful to Hon'ble PM Shri @narendramodi Ji & Union Minister @MoRD_GoI, Hon'ble Shri @girirajsinghbjp Ji for allotting PMAY(G) target of additional 1,99,550 houses in favour of J&K UT, which will be a momentous step towards achieving the objective of Housing for All," he said in a tweet. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Raipur, May 31 (PTI) The Chhattisgarh government on Wednesday suspended a water resources department (WRD) official for alleged negligence after 41 lakh litres of water was pumped out from a reservoir's waste weir to retrieve a mobile phone in Kanker district last week, an official said. Also Read | Ukraine Updates: Zelenskyy Praises Germanys determination. Anurag Pandey, special secretary of WRD, issued the suspension order of R L Dhivar, in-charge sub divisional officer (water resources) who was posted in Kapsi in the district. Also Read | Delhi To Have AI-Based Traffic System by 2024-End, Says Official. As per the suspension order, Dhivar did not take any action in connection with unauthorised evacuation of 4,104 cubic meter water equivalent to 41 lakh litres from the cistern of the waste weir of Paralkot reservoir for four days from May 21. Dhivar's act reflects lack of regular inspection of reservoirs and negligence in discharging duty, it said, adding that he has been placed under suspension with immediate effect. Last week, Rajesh Vishwas, a food inspector posted in Pakhanjore area of the district, was suspended for allegedly draining out water from the cistern of a waste weir without seeking permission from the competent authority after his high-end mobile phone fell into it. Vishwas had gone to the reservoir for an outing with friends on May 21 when his mobile phone fell into the water while he was taking a selfie. He then allegedly roped in villagers and got diesel pumps to pump out water till his phone was fished out on May 25. After the incident came to light, Kanker Collector Priyanka Shukla sought a report, following which Vishwas was suspended. The collector also issued a show-cause notice to the SDO Dhivar for allegedly giving verbal permission to drain out the water, said officials. Vishwas has been asked to pay a penalty of Rs 53,092 to the department within ten days for draining out a large quantity of water without seeking permission from the authority. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], May 31 (ANI): Army Chief General Manoj Pande on Wednesday said that India stands enabled not just for deterrence but also to undertake robust response if required. The Army Chief General and Indian Air Force Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari were speaking at the BrahMos User Meet 2023. Also Read | Delhi-Like Murder in Bihar: Jilted Lover Stabs Girl 12 Times For Turning Down His Marriage Proposal in Sitamarhi. Addressing the event, Manoj Pande said, "Today the nation is at the cusp of transformational changes, we are witness to the growing stature of our country in the international environment and higher expectations from the world community. Our concurrent growth and development, and the rising aspirations of our people, all reflect the confident optimism of a rising nation" "Due to our legacy issues of unsettled borders and related security challenges, possession of strategic deterrence instruments in our case is essential. And the three services of the defence forces as users of the Brahmos missile system, now stand enabled to not just stand deterrence but also to respond robustly when required," he added. Also Read | Delhi High Court Directs CBI To Arrest Self-Styled Godman Virendra Dev Dixit in Sexual Exploitation Case. Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, during his address, highlighted the role of BrahMos supersonic missile and said that it has galvanized India's firepower. "As one of our most lethal air-combat assets, the BrahMos supersonic missile has really galvanized the way we will equip ourselves with precision firepower in the coming years. Seeing the conflicts that are happening across the globe the importance of precision, long-range firepower can't be underscored," he said. He further added that the BrahMos missile has made the deterrence value of the IAF go up by leaps and bounds. "The combination of BrahMos on the Sukhoi Su-30 has really given us a tremendous capability that has enhanced our firepower. It has made the deterrence value of the IAF go up by leaps and bounds," he said. The Air Force Chief added, "As the situation unfolded in Northern borders three years ago, we realised that the potent weapon can be used very effectively for land attacks. In future, next-generation BrahMos or a small version that can be fitted onto smaller platforms like MiG-29, Mirage 2000 or even the LCA". (ANI) (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 31 (PTI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Wednesday morning visit the India-Myanmar border town of Moreh in Manipur's Tengnoupal district where he will meet Kuki civil society groups, besides reviewing the security measures in place, Army sources said. Shah, who flew into Imphal on Monday night, will visit Kangpokpi district in the afternoon, and will meet various groups there as well, they said. Also Read | Game Addiction: UP Boy Runs Away From Home With Cash and Jewellery to Play Online Games, Found in Bengaluru. Meanwhile, incidents of gunfight between militants and security forces were reported from Sugnu in Kakching district overnight, officials said. "Firing also took place at Sagolmang in Imphal East where a civilian was injured in an attack by militants," they said. Also Read | Ukraine Updates: Zelenskyy Praises Germanys determination. As part of his mission to broker a lasting peace in the troubled state, Shah met a cross-section of Kuki and Meitei leaders on Tuesday, besides top security officers to seek a solution to the spate of ethnic clashes that have rocked the state. He also held an all-party meeting in the evening. Shah is accompanied by Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Director of the Intelligence Bureau Tapan Kumar Deka on the trip. Ethnic clashes broke out in the state nearly a month ago after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. After a relative lull for over a fortnight, the state witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes, and gunfight between militants and security forces on Sunday. So far, over 80 people have been killed in the violence, according to officials. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mangaluru, May 31 (PTI) Sleuths of National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted raids at 16 places belonging to the activists of PFI, a banned outfit, in Dakshina Kannada (DK) district early on Wednesday, sources said. Also Read | Game Addiction: UP Boy Runs Away From Home With Cash and Jewellery to Play Online Games, Found in Bengaluru. Houses, offices and hospitals linked to the activists of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI) were searched simultaneously in Mangaluru as well as Puttur, Beltangady, Uppinangady, Venur and Bantwal. Also Read | Ukraine Updates: Zelenskyy Praises Germanys determination. The raids are part of a probe into the plot of the banned organisation to attack PM Modi on July 12, 2022 at a rally in Bihar, they said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Hyderabad, May 31 (PTI) Telangana High Court on Wednesday granted anticipatory bail to ruling YSRC MP YS Avinash Reddy in connection with the murder of a former minister, who is a relative of the accused. Also Read | Lumpy Skin Disease Found in Cows, Meghalaya Government Declares Several Villages in Ri-Bhoi and South West Khasi Hills District As Infected. The court also directed Avinash Reddy not to leave the country without prior permission of the CBI, till the investigation was complete. Also Read | Leopard Attack in Gujarat: 70-Year-Old Woman Mauled to Death by Big Cat at Garbada Forest Range in Dahod District. The petitioner shall cooperate with the investigation and shall appear before the CBI Police on every Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm., till the end of June, 2023 and shall regularly appear as and when he is required for investigation, Justice M Laxman said in his order. Avinash Reddy, cousin of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is under the CBI scanner following the murder of Vivekananda Reddy in March 2019. Y S Vivekananda Reddy is the uncle of the accused. Avinash Reddy was asked to appear before CBI for questioning on May 19. However, he did not appear citing his mother's illness and treatment at a hospital as a reason. The investigating agency issued another notice to him asking to come before it on May 22. Avinash Reddy has appeared before the CBI at least five times this year. He had subsequently moved the Telangana High Court with the anticipatory bail petition. Vivekananda Reddy, one of the brothers of the late Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, was found murdered at his residence in Pulivendula in Kadapa district, on the night of March 15, 2019, weeks before the Assembly elections in the State. The case was initially probed by a special investigation team (SIT) of the state crime investigation department, but was handed over to the CBI in July 2020. The CBI filed a charge sheet in the murder case on October 26, 2021 and followed it up with a supplementary charge sheet on January 31, 2022. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Dehradun, May 31: The Uttarakhand State Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Wednesday and a yellow alert for June 1, following continuous rainfall in Uttarkashi since Tuesday night, officials said. "The Meteorological Department has issued Orange Alert for May 31, 2023, and Yellow Alert for June 1, 2023, following rainfall in Uttarkashi," Uttarkashi Police Uttarakhand tweeted. Uttarakhand Weather Forecast and Update Today: Light Rain, Snowfall Likely in Hilly Districts. The Police have also issued an advisory and asked all the pilgrims to stay in safe places. "Pilgrims please stay at safe places, do not travel unnecessarily, and park vehicles at safe places, landslides/geo. Travel only when the weather is clear," they added. "All the devotees coming for Yamunotri and Gangotri Dham Yatra are requested to plan their journey after taking the weather forecast, keep rain cover, umbrella and woolen/warm clothes with them during the journey," they added. Karnataka Weather Forecast: IMD Predicts Heavy Rain in Bengaluru Till June 4, Issues Yellow Alert for Eight Districts. The IMD on Monday issued an orange alert for Uttarakhand where it predicted rain and hailstorm in higher reaches of the state and rain and thunder in the plains of it. The Meteorological Department predicted rain in Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Rudraprayag and light rain in Bageshwar, Almora and Pithoragarh. The Meteorological Department has also issued a warning of gusty winds blowing at a speed of 70 km. (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 31 (PTI) Akash Ambani, the elder son of billionaire Mukesh Ambani, and his wife Shloka Mehta Ambani on Wednesday welcomed their second child on Wednesday, a baby girl. The couple had their first child Prithvi in December 2020. Also Read | Greenland Glaciers and Ice Caps Are Melting Three Times Faster Than 20th Century, Finds Concerning Study. Dhanraj Nathwani, a friend of the Ambani children and son of family confidant and Rajya Sabha MP Parimal Nathwani, took to Twitter to announce the birth of the girl child. "Heartiest congratulations to Akash and Shloka Ambani on the joyous arrival of their little princess! May this precious blessing bring immense happiness and love to your lives," he tweeted. Also Read | RBI To Introduce Expected Loss Approach for Bad Loan Provisioning in 2023-24. In November last year, Akash's twin sister Isha and her husband Anand Piramal became parents to twins who were named Krishna and Aadiya. Mukesh Ambani has three children - twins Akash and Isha and younger son Anant. All are now involved with his oil-to-telecom-to-retail conglomerate. While Akash looks after the telecom business, Isha is involved with the retail venture. Anant is looking after the new energy vertical. Anant is engaged to Radhika Merchant, daughter of Viren Merchant, the CEO of Encore Healthcare. (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 31 (PTI) The Ministry of Electronics and IT has started a pilot project on electronics repair services outsourcing which it expects to have a revenue potential of USD 20 billion over a period of the next five years. The project has been identified as a game-changer for India and has been supported by the Government to make India a world leader in a hitherto untapped domain, an official statement said on Wednesday. Also Read | Greenland Glaciers and Ice Caps Are Melting Three Times Faster Than 20th Century, Finds Concerning Study. "The government launched the ERSO Pilot initiative today to validate certain transformational policy and process changes to make India the repair capital of the world," the statement said. Meity, Central Board Of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Environment Ministry jointly worked with industry to roll out the pilot project. Also Read | RBI To Introduce Expected Loss Approach for Bad Loan Provisioning in 2023-24. "Over the next five years, India's ERSO industry is likely to fetch India up to USD 20 billion in revenue and also generate millions of jobs," the statement said. The project has been identified as a game-changer for India and has been supported by the government to make India a world leader in a hitherto untapped domain. The pilot is being held in Bengaluru and will be run for a period of three months commencing today. Five companies, namely Flex, Lenovo, CTDI, R-Logic and Aforeserve have volunteered for the pilot. Post the pilot a detailed assessment will be carried out and modifications made in the process and policy as necessary, the statement said. Reacting on the development, IT hardware industry body MAIT Director General AA Jafri said that ERSO will enable extension of device life globally by providing cheap and reliable repair of ICT (Information and Communication Technology) products for the globe. (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 31 (PTI) Capital markets regulator Sebi on Wednesday cancelled the registration of brokerage firm Karvy Stock Broking Ltd (KSBL) for mis-utilising clients' funds and securities. Cancelling the registration, Sebi said that Karvy was involved in transferring of funds from clients' accounts to own accounts. Such funds were, in turn transferred to the group companies of the brokerage house. Further, it raised funds by pledging clients' securities. Also Read | Greenland Glaciers and Ice Caps Are Melting Three Times Faster Than 20th Century, Finds Concerning Study. Going by the order, the overall borrowing of Karvy, which was raising loans from financial institutions by pledging shares of its clients as collateral, was Rs 2,032.67 crore by September 2019 and the value of securities pledge by the stock broker was Rs 2,700 crore during the period. In addition, the brokerage firm did not settle clients' funds and securities, failed to furnish details of bank accounts and depository participant accounts and failed to cooperate with the forensic auditor in the proper assessment of the assets and liabilities of the member towards clients, Sebi said in its order. Also Read | RBI To Introduce Expected Loss Approach for Bad Loan Provisioning in 2023-24. Noting that Karvy has been declared a defaulter and expelled by BSE and NSE in November 2020, Sebi has cancelled "the certificate of registration of Karvy Stock Broking Ltd" under the Intermediaries Regulations. This comes after Sebi last month barred Karvy and its promoter Comandur Parthasarathy from the securities market for seven years and imposed a penalty of Rs 21 crore on them for misappropriating clients' funds by misusing the Power of Attorney given to it. In November 2019, the watchdog, through its interim order, barred KSBL from taking new brokerage clients after it was found that the firm had allegedly misused clients' securities to the tune of over Rs 2,000 crore. The interim order came after NSE forwarded a preliminary report to Sebi on non-compliances observed with respect to pledging or misuse of clients' securities by Karvy Stock Broking. Finally, the directions issued through the interim order were confirmed by Sebi in November 2020. The exchange's preliminary report was the result of the limited purpose inspection of Karvy Stock Broking conducted by it on August 19, 2019, covering the period from January 1, 2019 onwards. (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 31 (PTI) Some applicants including Vedanta Foxconn JV are expected to re-apply for government incentives under the modified semiconductor scheme opening from June 1, according to sources. Under the Modified Semicon India Programme, the government has increased the financial incentive of 50 per cent of the project cost for companies, consortia, joint ventures for setting up semiconductor fabs in India of any node (wafer size). Also Read | Greenland Glaciers and Ice Caps Are Melting Three Times Faster Than 20th Century, Finds Concerning Study. In the old scheme, the incentives varied on the basis of wafer node size. Similarly, a fiscal incentive of 50 per cent of the project cost is available for setting up of display fabs of specified technologies in India, a statement said on Wednesday. Also Read | RBI To Introduce Expected Loss Approach for Bad Loan Provisioning in 2023-24. "Government has decided to invite new applications for setting up of Semiconductor Fabs and Display Fabs in India from June 01, 2023 under the Modified Semicon India Programme. The applications will be received by India Semiconductor Mission," the statement said. Minister of State for Electronics and IT , Rajeev Chandrasekhar said that the first window for more expensive 28 nanometer (nm) fabs was kept open for 45 days only in January 2022 and 3 applications were evaluated by India Semiconductor Mission and its advisory group. "Strategy now is also encouraging mature nodes of over 40nm - current n new players may apply afresh in various nodes that they hv technology for. It is expected that some of current applicants will reapply n new fresh investors will also apply," Chandrasekhar tweeted. Sources said that Vedanta Foxconn JV is also expected to re-apply under the modified scheme. An email query sent to Vedanta, who is leading the JV, did not elicit any reply. The application window for Modified Scheme for setting up of Compound Semiconductors, Silicon Photonics,Sensors Fab, Discrete Semiconductors Fab and Semiconductor ATMP, OSAT facilities in India is open till December 2024, the statement said. Leading storage semiconductor company Micron has also applied for setting up an OSAT unit. "Application window of Design Linked Incentive Scheme is also open till December 2024. Till date 26 applications have been received under DLI Scheme and five applications have been granted approval," the statement said. Semicon India Programme was approved by the cabinet in December 2021 with an outlay of Rs 76,000 crore for the development of semiconductors and display manufacturing ecosystem in India. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Beirut, May 31: Palestinian Armed Forces have blamed Israel for the deaths of five of its men in an explosion in eastern Lebanon, close to the Syrian border on Wednesday, Al Jazeera reported. Israel is allegedly to blame for the deaths of five of its comrades in an explosion in eastern Lebanon, according to the armed wing of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) - General Command (PFLP-GC). Israel-Palestine Conflict: Israeli Military Hits Gaza With Airstrikes As PM Benjamin Netanyahu Vows To Extract Heavy Price From Enemies. A strike by Israel on Wednesday reportedly damaged positions in the Lebanese town of Qusaya, according to PFLP-GC official Anwar Raja. He claimed that 10 persons had been hurt, with two of them in critical condition, according to Al Jazeera. However, unnamed Israeli sources have claimed to news organisations that Israel was not responsible for the attack. Along with having military bases in both Lebanon and Syria, the group PFLP-GC has outposts along their shared border. Israel has been the target of its strikes in the past. The left-leaning organisation the PFLP-GC has supported the Syrian government since it split off from the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine in 1968. Israel-Palestine Conflict: Palestinian Islamic Jihad Commander Ali Ghali Killed in Latest Israeli Army Strikes on Gaza. In the Syrian conflict, its forces have battled alongside government forces. The organisation, which has bases in Syria and Lebanon, is present at Burj al-Barajneh in Beirut as well as the Yarmouk refugee camp in Damascus. The organisation gained notoriety for significant acts against Israel, including the hijacking of an El Al plane in 1968 and the machine-gunning of a different airliner at Zurich airport in 1969, according to Al Jazeera. All 47 people on board a Swissair flight from Zurich to Tel Aviv were killed in 1970 when a bomb was detonated. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Salix (US), May 31 (AP) Ron DeSantis was making a four-stop blitz through Iowa during his first full day of presidential campaigning on Wednesday, aiming for a personal connection with voters while intensifying his criticism of former President Donald Trump. The Florida governor's first stop was the floor of Port Neal Welding in Salix, a rural town near Sioux City, in the heart of the most Republican-heavy part of the state. Lining the highway outside the welding shop were metal structures including a towering Jesus, a version of the Statue of Liberty and the Minions. Also Read | Deadline Looms for Zimbabweans in South Africa. DeSantis talked up his efforts to push his state farther to the right. But he often barreled through his 30-minute speech in workmanlike fashion, left few pauses for applause from the audience of a bit more than 100 people, some wearing caps bearing seed company logos. Trying to position himself as the most formidable alternative to Trump in the crowded Republican White House primary field, DeSantis didn't mention the former president by name in Salix. But he said the Bible emphasized the importance of being humble, adding that the country needed leaders who knew how to show humility. Also Read | US Job Openings Hit 10.1 Million and Labour Market Still Strong Despite Federal Reserve's Efforts To Cool Economy. The tired dogmas of the past are inadequate for a vibrant future. We have to look forward, DeSantis said. "We can't look backwards. We must have the courage to lead and we must have the strength to win. He later sat with his wife, Casey, among hydraulic lifts and long welding tables arrayed with assorted metal engine parts. The pair took no questions but offered stories of their favorite drive-thru chicken restaurant and their kids including an incident involving permanent marker drawings on the bathroom walls of the governor's mansion. They just seem very down to earth, said Bev Lessman, a 70-year-old retired teacher from Sioux City. After speaking, DeSantis walked through the audience and Lessman wrapped her arms around DeSantis' neck and told the governor she could feel what seemed to her to be the governor's Christian devotion. I told him we can't make others live it, but I appreciated how he expressed his faith, she said later. He replied, But we can model it, she said. There was a connection, Lessman added. Displaying a personal touch that resonates with voters is vital to succeeding in states like Iowa. That's a departure from Florida and its large, expensive media markets where television advertising is often more important than on-the-ground campaigning given just how much ground there is to cover. DeSantis has subsequent Wednesday appearances in Council Bluffs, Pella and Cedar Rapids as he holds a string of early events in the state where caucuses kick off the Republican presidential primary voting. From there, he will head to New Hampshire on Thursday and South Carolina on Friday two other states that vote early on the GOP primary calendar and where face-to-face interactions with voters are important. After months of speculation, DeSantis launched his campaign with a glitch-filled online kickoff last week and held his first official Iowa event Tuesday night before an energetic crowd of roughly 500 gathered inside a suburban Des Moines church. He didn't mention Trump during his remarks, but speaking to reporters afterward, he pushed back against the former president in a way he had not before on the national stage. DeSantis accused Trump of essentially abandoning America First principles on immigration, supporting coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns and generally having moved left on key issues. And DeSantis laughed off any criticism the former president had lobbed his way over his leadership in Florida, particularly on the state's response to COVID-19. Hell, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship," DeSantis said. "Are you kidding me? The governor is opening his campaign looking up at Trump in the polls. He's also for months been dogged by criticism that, while he's comfortable on stage and in official settings, he can seem halting and awkward when interacting with regular Americans. Kate Romano, 60, of Indianola, Iowa, said she was more impressed by DeSantis than she expected during his Tuesday night appearance, calling him energetic and fun to hear. She voted reluctantly for Trump in 2016 and 2020, and she's interested in hearing from other candidates. I liked to hear that he'll stand up to Trump, Romano said. Kim Riesberg, 59, said she, too, voted twice for Trump but is not necessarily committed to him this time. DeSantis is a little softer, Riesberg, of Dallas Center, Iowa, said Tuesday night. And more appealing to the masses. Trump and his allies have unleashed a fresh round of anti-DeSantis attacks, sharing new polls finding the former president is the heavy favorite in the GOP race and taking aim at DeSantis' leadership during the pandemic. A pro-Trump super PAC is also running ads on Iowa television accusing DeSantis of wanting to raise taxes, which the governor denies. The feud will have an opportunity to play in public as the week progresses. Trump, who was already scheduled to be in Iowa on Thursday, added stops in the state to his schedule for Wednesday, ensuring he would overlap with DeSantis for a time. Trump will tape a radio appearance in Des Moines before attending a GOP legislative dinner. DeSantis, meanwhile, will be back in Iowa on Saturday for an event for 2024 GOP hopefuls hosted by Sen. Joni Ernst. They will be joined by declared candidates including Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, along with former Vice President Mike Pence, who is expected to launch a campaign soon. All the travel will give DeSantis a lot of unscripted moments with voters and he got a taste of that as he moved through the audience at the end of the Salix event. Some people approached the governor with specific points, as did Mark Choquette, who questioned DeSantis about his argument that it would take two terms for a president to reform the federal bureaucracy. If he don't bust ass and tear up D.C. in the first term, he may not get a second term and then where he be? asked Choquette, a 76-year-old retired U.S. Marine and Vietnam War veteran. That's one reason I like Trump. He doesn't have to worry about getting reelected." (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Kabul [Afghanistan], May 31 (ANI): India is strengthening its soft power in Afghanistan by providing critical aid through Iran, thereby sidelining a once-essential Pakistan, reported Nikkei Asia. A spokesman of the United Nations World Food Programme recently informed that an Indian donation of 20,000 metric tonnes of wheat is scheduled to arrive in Afghanistan in the coming months. This would fulfil a commitment made by New Delhi in March to ship the wheat through Iran's Chabahar port. The goods will eventually cross the Iranian border into Afghanistan's Herat region. Also Read | Afghanistan Customs Foils Human Hair Smuggling Into Pakistan. Hunger persists in Afghanistan, with the World Food Programme claiming that more than 19 million people are suffering from acute food insecurity, which occurs when a lack of adequate food puts lives or livelihoods in immediate danger, according to Nikkei Asia, a Japanese publication that provides Asian news and analysis to a global audience. A recent Taliban-imposed restriction on women UN personnel in Afghanistan sparked outrage in the international community and fuelled further concerns about the country's future, even evoking talk of a UN exit. However, a WFP spokesman stated that the organisation is committed to delivering aid in areas where hunger threatens the lives of millions. Also Read | Imran Khan Will Be Tried in Military Court, Says Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah. "The humanitarian needs across the country remain very high," the representative said, adding that "[India's] contribution will help us reach hungry families where needs are highest." The decision not only strengthens India's position as a crucial donor of essential aid to Afghanistan but also underscores New Delhi's efforts to craft positive relations, despite the fact that it does not formally recognise the Taliban administration that took power in August 2021. India reinstated its diplomatic presence in Kabul by deploying a "technical team" in mid-2022. According to experts, the region is simply too important to leave. Furthermore, the current food aid represents a geopolitically significant shift in the way India provides assistance, the report noted. In response to the Afghan crisis, India proposed transporting 50,000 tonnes of wheat through Pakistan. Pakistan granted consent in November 2021 after significant discussion and pressure from the Afghan Taliban. As a result, the first shipment of Indian wheat was delivered through Pakistan in February 2022. Nonetheless, despite India's appeal, Pakistan refused to extend the deadline, limiting the supplies to 40,000 tonnes. Using the port of Chabahar has significant advantages over transporting wheat through Pakistan, avoiding the nuclear-armed neighbours' difficult relationship and allowing India to support Afghans more efficiently. Ashok Sajjanhar, a former Indian ambassador to Kazakhstan, Sweden and Latvia said, "Use of Chahbahar negates the indispensability of Pakistan in terms of India reaching out to Afghanistan and Central Asia, especially since (Islamabad's) own relations have gone south with the Taliban and ours have gotten better." He added, "India has always had a historical and civilizational connect with the people (of Afghanistan). We want to have a technical presence and not a diplomatic one on Afghan soil. We want to ensure that the aid we are going to supply reaches the rightful beneficiaries and not used by the authorities to serve its own people." Islamabad's relations with the Afghan Taliban have deteriorated, owing in part to Kabul's incompetence or unwillingness to rein in Pakistani Taliban terrorists. And now, India is strengthening ties with a country that Islamabad has always believed to be inside its area of influence. However, a Pakistani analyst dismissed the trend, stating that India and Afghanistan are autonomous entities whose relations should not be viewed through the lens of Pakistan. "I think that India and Afghanistan are free countries that must pursue autonomous, independent relations with each other," said Mosharraf Zaidi, a senior fellow at the TABADLab think tank and former policy adviser to Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, adding, "In fact, the more regionally integrated countries there are amongst each other, the better it is for Pakistan." Afghanistan's internationally isolated officials have naturally welcomed India's outreach. Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid told Nikkei Asia, "India is an important country in the region, and Afghanistan values it. We want to have good, friendly, and strong people-to-people relationships with India. The fact that India has just announced a donation of 20,000 metric tonnes of wheat is a great help to the people of Afghanistan, and we are very thankful to the people and government of India for this support." There are other indicators of deepening ties, but New Delhi is keeping expectations low. After India promised the wheat, the Taliban's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a memo in mid-March announcing a four-day training programme for ministry personnel through the Indian Embassy. Soon after, India clarified that the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, which is overseen by the Indian External Affairs Ministry, is fully operational and does not represent a shift in New Delhi's stance towards Kabul, Nikkei Asia reported. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Kathmandu [Nepal], May 31 (ANI): Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' left Kathmandu for India on a four-day visit during which he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the diverse areas of partnership between the two countries. This is Pushpa Kamal Dahal's first bilateral visit abroad as Nepal Prime Minister after assuming office in December 2022. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation Also Read | Rahul Gandhi Waits in Queue for Two Hours for Immigration Clearance at US Airport, Says I Am No Longer An MP (See Pics). The Nepal Prime Minister will also call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar during his visit. In addition to the official engagements, he will also visit Ujjain and Indore as part of his visit Also Read | Rahul Gandhi at Mohabbat Ki Dukaan Event in US: Congress Leader Says PM Narendra Modi Thinks He Knows More Than God, Calls Him 'Specimen' (See Pics Video). A Ministry of External Affairs release said earlier that the visit continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries in furtherance of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. The bilateral relations between India and Nepal have significantly strengthened in the last few years in all areas of cooperation. This visit demonstrates the importance that both sides place on accelerating the bilateral partnership between the two nations, the release said. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Hyderabad [Pakaistan], May 31 (ANI): Heavy rains in Hyderabad and other regions of Sindh in Pakistan have claimed the lives of at least nine people, ARY News reported. Heavy rains have lashed Hyderabad and Sindh in the past 48 hours with gusts of winds, hailstorms, and lightning piling misery on people. Also Read | Earthquake in Myanmar: Quake of Magnitude 5.7 on Richter Scale Jolts the Country, No Casualty Reported. The twin cities of Hyderabad and Kotri received heavy showers and hailstorms on Tuesday afternoon. Apparently, strong winds in the region uprooted trees and damaged vehicles. In the lower areas of Sindh, the poor weather paralysed life and interfered with Hesco's (Hyderabad Electric Supply Company) energy system, leaving millions of people without electricity for hours, according to ARY News. Also Read | Rahul Gandhi Mocks Narendra Modi, Says PM Thinks He Knows More Than God, Calls Him 'Specimen' (Watch Video). ARY News is a Pakistani news channel. It is a bilingual news channel in English and Urdu. The heavy rains across Pakistan's Hyderabad and Sindh areas have resulted in the loss of lives and property. Three children died as a result of the severe rain in Kotri City, while seven other individuals were injured, ARY News reported. The youngsters, 10-year-old Farhana, 11-year-old Asma, and 12-year-old Muhammad Yusuf, were playing when the wall collapsed, killing them instantly, according to the police. A tragic incident took place in the Tharparkar district, where six people died due to lightning. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Lhasa [Tibet], May 31 (ANI): The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) recently launched a smear campaign on social media against the Dalai Lama, Tibet's spiritual leader, who has lived in exile in India since 1959 when he was forced to flee his homeland, occupied by Mao's China, reported The Diplomat, adding that this campaign was not new as China has been vilifying him in every medium possible ever since 1959. But how did the CCP initiate the April campaign? The source of the raw material was a relatively routine event in Dharamsala, the report stated, adding that a Tibetan refugee charity employee from India was able to arrange for her small son, who is about 8 years old, to meet the Dalai Lama. This took place on February 28 and online video clips were uploaded to celebrate the joyous event. Also Read | Afghanistan Customs Foils Human Hair Smuggling Into Pakistan. "A month went by and the Chinese propaganda agencies were likely formulating strategies about how to respond to the expected renewed criticism of China. In recent years, they have increased their efforts to manipulate social media globally rather than only domestically, using international platforms rather than Chinese ones," the report read. When the propaganda officers discovered the footage from February, they must have thought they had hit gold. To make it appear as though the Dalai Lama wanted to kiss the 8-year-old boy, they cropped away a portion of the image. (He does stick his tongue out, and even says, in halting English, "Suck my tongue!"), reported The Diplomat, an international current-affairs magazine for the Asia-Pacific region. Also Read | Imran Khan Will Be Tried in Military Court, Says Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah. The clip was distributed via a Twitter account created in February and included a slur on the Dalai Lama. It spread globally through networks of trusted pro-regime people and linked bot accounts. Within days, it had millions of hits. And so it went on, with many memes adding to the conversation, the report stated, adding that suddenly, many people with only the vaguest notion of the Dalai Lama could be heard condemning him. "What actually happened, though? It turns out that feeding toddlers by mouth is usual in Tibet and that this tradition still exists, at least in the Dalai Lama's former home region of Amdo. Because of this history, there is a running joke among elderly Tibetans that when they run out of treats to give their grandchildren, they will thrust out their tongues and say, 'You may eat my tongue, for I have nothing else left'. That the Dalai Lama said 'suck' instead of 'eat' was possible because he was thinking of sugar, not food-the actual Tibetan phrasing is che le sa, literally 'eat my tongue'," the report stated. The entire video isn't "sexual" in any way, it added. The Dalai Lama humorously pushes his head onto the boy's shoulder to demonstrate how he used to fight with his elder brother when they were younger. Then he performs another traditional gesture of respect known as oothuk, which is similar to a formal handshake in the West, by pressing his forehead against the boy's forehead, the report noted. "Afterwards, both the boy and his mother (who sat a short distance away during the entire exchange) were interviewed. Both of them were ecstatic to have experienced this. Nothing untoward occurred; in fact, the boy received a po kiss (a customary elders' kiss on the mouth and cheek given to children) immediately before the Dalai Lama stuck out his tongue to indicate that they were finished," The Diplomat stated. The Indian child asked whether he can "hug" the Dalai Lama. At first, the Dalai Lama did not get the English word, the report stated, adding that in Tibet, handshakes and hugs are typically avoided. "But he got the best of both worlds: oothuk, po, and the "che le sa" joke; plus a hug, a handshake and a chat, as we see in the full video," it added. Most people in the West have no clue about Tibetan cultural practices, let alone about "eat my tongue" as a non-sexual concept. In addition, many people in the West are aware of Catholic priests who have been found guilty of paedophilia, the report noted, adding that combining the two, Chinese propagandists found an opening for implying that the Dalai Lama too, as a male "priest" of sorts, indulged in a similar crime. The trick succeeded, beyond expectations: Damage was inflicted globally, to the reputation of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people. The recent widespread atrocities committed in Tibet by China have received little attention in the Western media, the report noted. Curiously, the Dalai Lama's office sent out a statement expressing regret for "the hurt his words may have caused." Many Tibetans were angry about this. The majority of people don't believe there is a need for the Dalai Lama to apologise to the world, not even strategically. In fact, the apology for "any hurt caused" may have something to do with Tibetan Buddhists' inclination to feel bad (independent of culpability). There were spontaneous demonstrations in Dharamshala and in Ladakh in support of the Dalai Lama. Democracies must clearly exercise better control over platforms like YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and others, lest these potent ones be taken over and turned into weapons in the hands of authoritarians both at home and abroad, according to The Diplomat. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Streaks of Light Seen in California. (Photo Credits: Video Grab) Seoul, May 31 (AP) South Korea's military said a rocket launched by North Korea on Wednesday had an "abnormal flight," suggesting the launch may have failed. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the rocket landed in waters off the Korean Peninsula's west coast. Also Read | Afghanistan Customs Foils Human Hair Smuggling Into Pakistan. The chiefs of staff said South Korean and US authorities were analyzing the launch further. The launch came a day after North Korea said it would put its first military spy satellite into orbit. (AP) Also Read | Imran Khan Will Be Tried in Military Court, Says Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Harare, May 31 (AP) Zimbabwe's foreign ministry has summoned the United States' deputy ambassador over a series of tweets the embassy sent calling for a peaceful election in a country that has a history of violent and disputed votes. The ministry accused the embassy of election-related social media posts bordering on activism and meddling in Zimbabwe's internal affairs. Also Read | Rahul Gandhi Mocks Narendra Modi, Says PM Thinks He Knows More Than God, Calls Him 'Specimen' (Watch Video). Deputy Ambassador Elaine French was called to a meeting with Zimbabwe foreign affairs acting permanent secretary Rofina Chikava on Tuesday following the posts on the U.S. Embassy's official Twitter account. The Zimbabwe foreign ministry said it had a particular issue with a May 26 tweet that called for Zimbabweans to Register to vote and make sure your voice is heard. Another tweet from the embassy said Zimbabwe's constitution grants citizens the right to choose their representatives in legitimate, credible, & peaceful elections. Also Read | Namibia Shocker: 13 Members of Same Family Die After Eating Toxic Porridge, Say Reports. The foreign ministry said the tweet urging people to register to vote was against diplomatic protocols. We stand by our recent social media posts calling for peace during the election season," U.S. Embassy spokeswoman Meg Riggs said in a statement. Elections are a part of a functioning democracy. Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said the elections will take place in August, although he hasn't announced a specific date. But campaigning has started, with opposition parties already alleging violence and intimidation against their supporters by ruling party activists and security forces. Mnangagwa's ZANU-PF ruling party and the government have denied the allegations but human rights groups have said there is intimidation and Mnangagwa's government is suppressing criticism amid a currency crisis and a sharp rise in food prices. Zimbabwe has been under U.S. sanctions for two decades over human rights abuses, which started under the regime of former president Robert Mugabe, who led Zimbabwe from independence from white minority rule in 1980 until he was removed in a coup in 2017 and replaced by Mnangagwa. Zimbabwe has had a series of violent and disputed elections since 1980 and this vote is expected to be closely contested. (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Patna, May 31: A jilted lover in Bihar's Sitamarhi district stabbed his former girlfriend 12 times, a police official said on Wednesday, adding that the victim sustained severe injuries and is battling for her life in a hospital. The accused, Chandan Kumar, has been arrested and confessed to committing the crime on Tuesday. According to the police, the victim sustained six stab wounds, including one on her chest. Karishma Meri Hai: Jilted Lover in Uttar Pradeshs Hapur Threatens To Kill Groom if He Brings Baraat, Sticks Chilling Poster at His House. "After committing the crime, the accused was trying to escape but failed. We have arrested him on the charge of attempt to murder. Investigation is underway. We will take strong action against the accused," said Sitamarhi SP Manoj Kumar Tiwari. Bengaluru Shocker: Jilted Lover Stabs Woman to Death Outside Her Workplace, Arrested. Chandan Kumar confessed to the police that he was in a relationship for five years. But the girl started ignoring him of late and also refused to marry him. "I got angry and stabbed her multiple times," he said. In her brief statement to the police, the victim acknowledged that she was in a relationship with Chandan but broke it off as her parents were not happy. "He also uploaded my private video on social media some six months ago. A panchayat also took place and my parents had lodged an FIR in that matter in Bantaha police station as well," she said. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2023 04:12 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). New Delhi, May 31: The Delhi Police took Sahil, who brutally stabbed his 16-year-old girlfriend to death in Delhi's Shahbad Dairy area, to the crime spot to recreate the scene. Sources said that he was taken to the crime spot in the Shahbad Dairy area around 4 a.m. Wednesday. According to sources, it has been reported that investigators may consider conducting a psychoanalysis test or psycho assessment test on Sahil. Delhi Girl Murder: New CCTV Video Shows Accused Sahil Talking to a Friend at Crime Spot Hours Before Brutal Killing of 16-Year-Old in Shahbad Dairy Area. During the psychoanalysis test, Sahil will be questioned about his family, friends, and lifestyle. The test is expected to last approximately three hours and is intended to assist the police in gaining insight into the killer's mental condition. Experienced psychiatrists will be responsible for conducting the test, as mentioned by the sources. The 20-year-old has revealed to investigators that he committed the act out of anger after she began ignoring him. Police teams have conducted searches near Rithala Metro station in an effort to find the knife used in the crime, as Sahil claimed to have disposed of it in the nearby bushes. However, the weapon is yet to be recovered. Delhi Girl Murder Video: 16-Year-Old Stabbed, Stoned to Death by Boyfriend in Shahbad Dairy Area, Disturbing Incident Caught on CCTV Camera. An official involved in the investigation said that Sahil has been inconsistent with his statements, and all of them are currently being verified. During initial questioning, it was also disclosed that the accused had purchased the knife from Haridwar around 15 days prior to the day of crime. "Sahil said that 16-year-old Sakshi was allegedly meeting her ex-boyfriend Praveen, whom she had broken up with four years ago but remained in contact with. Sahil confessed to feeling agitated as she ignored him," said the official. According to the police, Sakshi and her friend Bhawna's boyfriend Ajay, also known as Jhabru, had previously warned Sahil to stay away from her. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2023 02:29 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). New Delhi, May 31: A Delhi Police official said on Wednesday that a 16-year-old girl was raped multiple times by a 21-year-old man leading to her pregnancy. The matter came to light on Tuesday when the girl complained about pain in her abdomen, after which she was taken to the SVBP Hospital in Patel Nagar. It was revealed that she was found six weeks pregnant. Gujarat Shocker: Minor Girl Raped, Impregnated by Elder Cousin in Morbi, Accused Arrested. Police received information the SVBP Hospital that a minor girl was being shifted to Lady Hardinge Hospital after she was found to be pregnant. "A police team rushed to the hospital and shifted the girl to the Lady Hardinge Hospital where she was diagnosed as six weeks pregnant. She was counselled by a Delhi Commission for Women counsellor," said the police official. The victim told the police that at her maternal aunt's village in Uttar Pradesh, one Mukesh made relation with her. Mumbai Shocker: 42-Year-Old Man Rapes, Impregnates Minor Daughter; Arrested. "Mukesh also came to her house in Delhi and had sexually assaulted her. Accordingly, a case under section 376(2) (rape) of the Indian Penal Code and 6 POCSO Act has been registered against the accused who is distant relative of the victim," the official added. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2023 01:56 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Bhopal, May 31: Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra has ordered a probe after posters featuring hijab-clad Hindu girl students surfaced in the state's Damoh district, an official said on Wednesday. Posters were put up by Ganga Jamna Higher Secondary School in Damoh highlighting the meritorious students along with their photographs and marks obtained. A number of girl students were seen wearing a hijab-like scarf around their heads in those posters, following which a controversy erupted. Stepwell Collapse at Indore Temple: MP Home Minister Narottam Mishra Orders Probe. Posters of Hijab-Clad Hindu Girl Students Surface in Madhya Pradesh Ganga Jamna H.S. School from Madhya Pradesh presented many Hindu girls in Hijab when announcing its results. The banner was later removed following public outrage. The question arises: Why are Hindu girls being presented in Hijab? An even bigger question is: Why are Hindu pic.twitter.com/7xmZQF1dp5 BALA (@erbmjha) May 31, 2023 Home Minister Mishra has directed the officials to conduct a probe into the matter. None of the family members of the girl students, however, came forward with any complaint. Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra Demands Apology From Rahul Gandhi Over Karnataka Congress MLA Satish Jarkiholis Hindu Remarks. Mishra said, considering the seriousness of the matter, he has asked the Superintendent of Police to look into it. Meanwhile, some Hindu groups demanded de-recognition of the school, and action against the District Education Officer. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2023 11:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). New Delhi, May 31: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is conducting raids at more than 25 locations in Karnataka, Kerala, and Bihar in connection with the Phulwari Sharif case involving the banned Popular Front of India (PFI). The NIA has not made any official statement in the matter so far. During the raids, sources claimed that they have recovered a few incriminating documents. NIA Raids Over 100 Places Across Six States in Terror-Narcotics-Smugglers-Gangsters Nexus Cases. "We are probing the funding angle. The funding was being done from these areas which we are raiding," the source said. In Karnataka the raids were taking place in the Dakshina Kannada area. Further details were awaited. The case was initially registered on July 12, 2022 at police station Phulwari Sharif, district Patna, Bihar and re-registered by the NIA on July 22, 2022. The NIA filed a charge sheet against four accused on January 7, 2023. Terror Funding Case: NIA Raids Six Locations in Jammu and Kashmir. "Investigations have revealed that Anwar is a former member of the banned terrorist organisation SIMI and is currently associated with several PFI members of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, including one Athar Parvez who was named in the FIR and arrested on July 12 last year," the NIA had stated. The NIA had said that Anwar was instrumental in preparing a secret group of former SIMI members to work for the PFI, according to the NIA investigation. The prime agenda, under the banner of PFI, was to establish Islamic Rule in India as envisioned in the outfit's 'India 2047 Document'. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2023 10:04 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Ukraine's president thanked German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for providing air defense systems to protect cities from Russian strikes. Meanwhile, the US is to announce an aid package worth $300 million. DW has the latest.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the "determination" of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in providing aid to the war torn country. Also Read | Indian Army Foils Infiltration Bid, Opens Fire After Noticing Suspicious Movement Near LoC in Jammu and Kashmirs Poonch. Zelenskyy, in his nightly video message, said he spoke to Scholz by phone and thanked him for providing air defense systems that were crucial in saving the lives of many Ukrainians from attacks by Russia. Also Read | PM Modi to Launch Maha Jansampark Campaign Today: 51 Mega Rallies, Public Meetings at Over 500 Places, Heres How BJP Plans to Reach Out to Every Voter in All 543 Lok Sabha Constituencies. "And I thank Olaf, Mr. Chancellor, for his personal determination, which in many ways becomes the determination for all of Europe," he continued in the video message. "The Russian terror must be defeated every day and every night, in the skies of every Ukrainian city and village," he said. Germany's initial hesitance to provide military aid to Ukraine drew flak. But Berlin has since changed its stance and hasstarted providing Ukraine with heavy battle tanks and air defense systems. Zelenskyy said the air defense systems were key to his defense policy. He said that so far Germany has provided the Ukraine military with aid worth 3 billion ($3.21 billion). Here are some of the other developments concerning Russia's war in Ukraine on Wednesday, May 31: Russia, Ukraine evade watchdog's rules for protecting Zaporizhzhia plant Rafael Grossi, the chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has proposed five principles to prevent damage to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant that has been occupied by Russian-backed forces. "There should be no attack of any kind from or against the plant, in particular targeting the reactors, spent fuel storage, other critical infrastructure, or personnel," Grossi said at the UN Security Council in New York. However, both Ukraine and Russia have not committed to the proposed guidelines. Russia said it will do all it can to protect the power plant, but it did not commit to the proposal. Ukraine, on the other hand, said the principles "must be complemented with the demand of full demilitarization and deoccupation of the station." Repeated military encounters near Zaporizhzhia, which is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, have stoked fears of a nuclear disaster. The UN nuclear chief this week described the situation at Zaporizhzhia as "extremely fragile and dangerous." The six units of the power plant have been shut down but the nuclear material must continue to be cooled. Grossi also asked for external power supply for the plant. Ukraine is working with BAE to produce weapons: Zelenskyy Ukraine is collaborating with major British defense company BAE Systems to set up a Ukrainian weapons production unit, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. "It is indeed a massive manufacturer of weaponry, the kind of weaponry that we need now and will continue to need," Zelenskyy said in a video after holding talks with senior BAE officials, including Chief Executive Charles Woodburn. "We are working on establishing a suitable base in Ukraine for production and repair. This encompasses a wide range of weaponry, from tanks to artillery," he added. Earlier in the day, he said that both the parties had agreed to open a BAE office in Ukraine. US set to announce new aid package worth $300 million The United States is expected to announce a new aid package this week that will total up to $300 million and include weapons for drones, US officials said. The new aid package comes at a crucial point in the war. On Tuesday, unmanned aircraft attacked Moscow, with the Kremlin blaming Kyiv. Ukraine, however, did not make any direct comment about the attack. The White House said it did not support attacks inside of Russia and that it was still gathering information on the incident. The attack came after Russia captured the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut after a 9-month battle. US officials have said the incident would not affect the aid package. They also did not provide more details about the drone ammunition reportedly included in the aid package. EU announces sanctions for destabilizing Moldova The European Council has announced sanctions against seven politicians and businessmen with Moldovan or Russian citizenship. The EU alleged the individuals attempted to destabilize the Republic of Moldova on behalf of Russia through indirect actions like planning violent demonstrations or unauthorized capital exports. The sanctions imposed travel bans to and through the European Union. "Moldova is one of the countries most affected by the consequences of Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine. There are serious, intensified and persistent attempts to destabilize the country," said EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell. The legal framework for such sanctions was created by the EU in April at Moldova's request. mf/nm (dpa, AP, Reuters) (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2023 09:10 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Gandhi is on a week-long visit to the US, where he will meet with politicians and engage with members of the Indian diaspora. He will end his journey on June 4 with a public event in New York. Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani recently returned back to Mumbai after a fun trip in Japan. However, it seems like Kiara is still over her vacay, as she has been sharing pics from the getaway online. Now today, the actress dropped a series of clicks on Insta, which sees Sid 'fulfilling husband duties' by carrying his wife's shopping bags. Isn't he the cutest? Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani Are All Smiles As They Arrive in Style at the Airport From Their Honeymoon (Watch Video). Sidharth Malhotra Is Husband Goals: View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Malhotras<3 (@siara_4evr) (SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.) San Francisco, May 31: Around 2,000 Amazon employees were set to participate in a walk-out in front of Amazon's Spheres building in the heart of its headquarters in Seattle, protesting against layoffs and return-to-office mandate. Amazon mandated its return-to-office policy from May 1, with employees required to be back in offices at least three days per week. The e-commerce giant has also laid off 27,000 employees in two job cut announcements. Amazon Layoffs Leave Employees Frustrated; 1,000 Workers in Seattle Plan to Walk Off Job Over Sackings and 'Work From Office' Rule: Report. "The walkout is on! About 1,816 employees have pledged to walk out around the world so far, with 873 in Seattle. Please join 1,816 of our coworkers (and counting) and pledge to walk out," said Amazon Employees for Climate Justice (AECJ) and Amazon's Remote Advocacy community leaders. "Employees need a say in decisions that affect our lives, such as the return-to-work mandate and how our work is being used to accelerate the climate crisis," they added. An Amazon spokesperson told GeekWire they are always listening and will continue to do so. "We're happy with how the first month of having more people back in the office has been. There's more energy, collaboration, and connections happening, and we've heard this from lots of employees and the businesses that surround our offices," said the company spokesperson. "We understand that it's going to take time to adjust back to being in the office more and there are a lot of teams at the company working hard to make this transition as smooth as possible for employees," the spokesperson added. However, thousands of corporate and tech employees weren't thrilled to return to work and joined an internal Slack channel to protest the policy. "This is about Amazon going in the wrong direction and losing trust. We want what's best for Amazon. Long-term thinking and employee voices are a significant component of the Day 1 culture that's turned Amazon into such a successful company, and we're trying to reignite it," Amazon Employees for Climate Justice and Amazon Remote Advocacy said in a statement. "Day 1" refers to a mantra touted by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who stepped down as CEO in 2021 but remains chairman. Jeff Bezos Prepares Prenuptial Pact With Girlfriend Lauren Sanchez To Protect His USD 138 Billion Fortune After Losing Whopping USD 38 Billion to MacKenzie Scott Following Divorce. Amazon employs more than 65,000 corporate workers in the Seattle region. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2023 10:53 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). San Francisco, May 31 : A US federal judge has categorically told lawyers that he will not allow any AI-generated content in his court. Texas federal judge Brantley Starr said that any attorney appearing in his court must attest that "no portion of the filing was drafted by generative artificial intelligence", or if it was, that it was checked "by a human being", reports TechCrunch. "All attorneys appearing before the court must file on the docket a certificate attesting either that no portion of the filing was drafted by generative artificial intelligence (such as ChatGPT, Harvey.AI, or Google Bard) or that any language drafted by generative artificial intelligence was checked for accuracy, using print reporters or traditional legal databases, by a human being," read the standing order. Apple iPhone 15 Series To Get Surprisingly Radical Specs Changes As per Latest Speculations; Heres All Known Details. According to the judge, these AI platforms are incredibly powerful and have many uses in the law -- form divorces, discovery requests, suggested errors in documents, anticipated questions at oral argument. "But legal briefing is not one of them. Here's why. These platforms in their current states are prone to hallucinations and bias. On hallucinations, they make stuff up -- even quotes and citations," the judge's order further read. Microsoft Layoffs: Tech Giant Slashes More Jobs In US, Working Employees Won't See Salary Hike This Year. Last week, ChatGPT had fooled a lawyer into believing that citations given by the AI chatbot in a case against Colombian airline Avianca were real while they were, in fact, bogus. Lawyer Steven A. Schwartz, representing a man who sued an airline, admitted in an affidavit that he had used OpenAI's chatbot for his research. After the opposing counsel pointed out the non-existent cases, US District Judge Kevin Castel confirmed that six of the submitted cases "appear to be bogus judicial decisions with bogus quotes and bogus internal citations". The judge set up a hearing as he considered sanctions for the plaintiff's lawyers. Last month, ChatGPT, as part of a research study, falsely named an innocent and highly-respected law professor in the US on the list of legal scholars who had sexually harassed students in the past. Jonathan Turley, Shapiro Chair of Public Interest Law at George Washington University, was left shocked when he realised ChatGPT named him as part of a research project on legal scholars who sexually harassed someone. "ChatGPT recently issued a false story accusing me of sexually assaulting students," Turley posted in a tweet. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2023 11:11 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). On 30 May, local press in Mexico reported that members of the armed forces had been deployed to Frontera Comalapa municipality, Chiapas state, following a flare up in violence. End of preview - This article contains approximately 405 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options On 30 May Brazils Presidenthosted a summit with every South American head of state (except Perus) in attendance. End of preview - This article contains approximately 603 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, wife of former president Jimmy Carter, has been diagnosed with dementia, according to The Carter Center, which announced it on Tuesday. The Carter Center, which is the nonprofit founded by the former president, released a statement about the former first lady, saying, "She continues to live happily at home with her husband, enjoying spring in Plains and visits with loved ones." In her capacity as first lady, as well as during her life before and after her husband left office, Rosalynn Carter was a strong advocate of mental health. Because of this, The Carter Center explained that they made the announcement to "decrease stigma" regarding the issue. In its statement online, the nonprofit said, "She urged improved access to care and decreased stigma about issues surrounding mental health." The statement added that "One in 10 older Americans have dementia, a condition that affects overall mental health," saying they recognize that "stigma is often a barrier that keeps individuals and their families from seeking and getting much-needed support." Finally, the nonprofit organization paid tribute to caregivers, mentioning that the former first lady often noted that there are only four kinds of people in this world, and they are former caregivers, current caregivers, future caregivers, and those who need caregivers. The Carter Center then stated that there is the "universality of caregiving is clear in our family" and that they are experiencing the joy and challenges of it amid the news of the former first lady's condition. Former President Jimmy Carter founded The Carter Center with Rosalynn Carter in Georgia in 1982, shortly after the Democrat lost his re-election bid to Ronald Reagan. It has since become a notable international humanitarian force that focuses on public health and human rights, including the efforts of reducing the stigma on mental health. The Carters are also known for their long association with Habitat for Humanity READ NEXT: California: Queen Elizabeth Assassination Plot in 1983 Revealed Biden Administration Reacts to Rosalynn Carter Dementia News According to ABC News, soon after the news about former FLOTUS Rosalynn Carter's condition was revealed, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre spoke about it during a recent news conference on Tuesday. "The Bidens have stayed in touch with President Carter's team to ensure that their family knows that they are certainly in the president and the first lady's thoughts," she told reporters. President Joe Biden had been a strong ally of the Carters ever since his early days as a senator. Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter Have Been Married for 76 Years According to Business Insider, the former POTUS and the former FLOTUS started dating in 1945 when Jimmy Carter was still studying at the US Naval Academy and Rosalynn was still a student at Georgia Southwestern College. They then married on July 7, 1946. They have been married for over 76 years now, with four kids, as well as a total of 22 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. As for the former president, he is currently in hospice care since February after a series of hospitalizations. READ NEXT: Joe Biden Family Probe: House Republicans Find No Evidence of Wrongdoing This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Rosalynn Carter dementia diagnosis: Former first lady, Jimmy Carter's wife update | LiveNOW from FOX Former Donald Trump aide Peter Navarro is the latest former Trump White House official to face jail time as he will go on trial for contempt of Congress on January 6. The Trump official refused to cooperate with the bipartisan House Select Committee on January 6, refusing to appear for a deposition. According to the Associated Press, US District Judge Amit Mehta has set the trial date for Navarro on September 5 during a hearing on Tuesday. Navarro's attorneys declined to comment about the decision. This would be the second time a former Trump aide would be facing criminal charges. The first one was former White House adviser Steve Bannon, who was also charged with contempt of Congress before being charged on two counts. He was sentenced to four months behind bars but is still free as his attorneys are still appealing the case. Bannon was previously pardoned by Trump in a fraud case regarding the "We Build the Wall" scam where he and several associates supposedly defrauded Trump supporters into a project to fund the Trump border wall. Allegedly, the money instead went to their pockets. However, Trump is not the president anymore which means Bannon may really be facing jail time should his appeal fail. Donald Trump Tried To Intervene in Peter Navarro's January 6 Case Navarro failed to appear before the House January 6 Committee for a deposition last year, leading to the charge. He was then charged with contempt of Congress again for failing to produce documents the committee requested. He reportedly pleaded "Not Guilty" on both charges. Politico noted that Navarro tried to get out of these charges, with Donald Trump himself trying to help out his former aide. A lawyer for the former president issued a letter last January to endorse the decision by former White House adviser Peter Navarro to ignore the subpoenas for him by claiming executive privilege. READ NEXT: Oath Keepers Founder Stewart Rhodes Sentenced to 18 Years for Seditious Conspiracy "This confirms President Trump's position that, as one of his senior advisors, you had an obligation to assert executive privilege on his behalf and fully comply with the principles of confidentiality stated above when you responded to the Committee's subpoena," wrote Trump lawyer Evan Corcoran in his letter. The effort ultimately failed as Judge Mehta wrote in his opinion letter, "Defendant has failed to come forward with any evidence to support the claimed assertion of privilege." He ruled that the claim of executive privilege was unproven therefore the "Defendant cannot avoid prosecution for contempt." Peter Navarro Also Embroiled in Presidential Records Case and Lost Navarro was also involved in keeping hundreds of government records during the Trump administration from the National Archives. He tried keeping these Trump documents despite a judge ordering him to return them, leading to another legal battle. The former Trump aide has acknowledged that there are still at least 200 to 250 records in his possession and tried to keep them by arguing that there is no mechanism that exists to enforce him to turn them over as it would violate his Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. According to Politico, a judge did not agree and ordered him to return these records. Navarro appealed, leading to a federal appeals court panel ruling against Navarro once again. READ MORE: Proud Boys Trial: Enrique Tarrio, 3 Others, Found Guilty of Seditious Conspiracy During January 6 This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Cuffed And Shackled: Trump Aide Navarro's Arrest Puts Heat On Coup Plot After MSNBC Confession - MSNBC Tragedy struck the South American nation of Guyana as the death toll from a devastating fire at a dormitory rose to 20 with the loss of a 14-year-old girl's life, per Al Jazeera. The teenager succumbed to her injuries at a hospital in the capital city of Georgetown at approximately 10 am local time, according to an update provided on Tuesday by Guyana's Department of Public Information (DPI), Sherana Daniels. Daniels had been transported to Georgetown for intensive care following the fatal blaze that engulfed a boarding school in Mahdia on the evening of May 21. Despite receiving immediate medical attention, her condition remained critical until her unfortunate passing, as stated in the update released on Monday, May 22. The Minister of Health (MOH) expressed gratitude to the dedicated medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other staff members, who tirelessly provided care with the hope of a miracle. Before Daniels's tragic demise, the fire had already claimed the lives of 18 female students, primarily Indigenous and a 5-year-old boy. READ NEXT: Guyana Dormitory Fire Kills 19 Guyana Student Suspected for Dormitory Fire Faces Murder Charges The 15-year-old Guyana student, who allegedly started the fatal fire at the dormitory, faced a severe legal development on Monday as state prosecutors charged her with 19 counts of murder, AP reports. The court proceedings determined that the state and defense attorneys would have until July 5 to assess their readiness for a preliminary hearing. In the interim, the court remanded the accused to juvenile custody, with no plea required. In a separate update provided by the ministry, there was some positive news regarding another child who had sustained severe injuries in the fire. The ministry reported that the child's condition had shown improvement following specialized treatment at the Northwell Burn Center, located at the University Hospital on Staten Island, New York. The tragic Guyana dormitory fire has claimed more lives than the 2016 fire that resulted in the deaths of 17 inmates at the central jail in Georgetown. Reports indicate that the inmates set fire to mattresses as a form of protest against overcrowding and trial delays, as stated by the police. Numerous individuals suffered severe injuries in that incident as well. The Guyana Dormitory Fire A tragic incident unfolded in Mahdia, a central town in Guyana, as a massive fire tore through a substantial wooden structure that served as a residence for 57 students. The devastating blaze, believed to have originated in a restroom, quickly engulfed the building, resulting in a heartbreaking loss of life. Survivors who escaped the flames shared harrowing accounts of the nightmarish ordeal, recounting the haunting cries for help that pierced through the darkness. It was reported that the dormitory's administrator, who experienced the profound loss of her five-year-old son in the fire, became overwhelmed amidst the chaos and misplaced the keys to the building. Firefighters faced formidable challenges as they endeavored to rescue trapped residents. In their race against time, they resorted to breaking down walls in desperate attempts to reach those trapped inside. However, adverse weather conditions may have hampered initial progress in containing the raging inferno. The devastating incident claimed numerous lives and injured several individuals, predominantly affecting indigenous girls. Efforts were made to transport the injured to hospitals throughout the country, including those in the capital city of Georgetown, where some victims remain in critical condition. The magnitude of the Guyana dormitory fire's destruction was so immense that local media sources reported the necessity of DNA testing to confirm the identities of specific victims, highlighting the profound impact and devastation inflicted by this tragic event. READ MORE: Police Release Video of Hollywood Broadwalk Shooting This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: At least 19 children killed in Guyana school dormitory fire - From Al Jazeera English Former President Donald Trump is facing legal trouble left and right, and one of his most serious is the Mar-a-Lago classified documents case. Now, Trump attorney Evan Corcoran made a shocking revelation about the ongoing case. Evan Corcoran is the Trump lawyer who was materially misled by Trump regarding the classified documents case, and his account on the matter had not been reported prior to the admission. People familiar with the matter have told The Guardian that Corcoran admitted that he was told by several Trump aides to search the storage room because that was where all the materials brought from the White House were, as he was complying with the subpoena to hand over all classified documents. However, after finding 38 classified documents in the storage room, he asked if he should also search the trump office at Mar-a-Lago, He was reportedly steered away by Trump associates and was told to inform prosecutors that the 38 documents were all he could find. Trump has since asserted that there were no more classified documents left in his Florida home and resort until he was proven wrong when the FBI raided Mar-a-Lago and seized 101 classified documents a few months after Corcoran handed those previous 38 documents. The revelation was reportedly Corcoran's sworn account to Special Counsel Jack Smith's federal grand jury investigation of how things went down as he gave up the 38 previous classified documents. A Trump spokesperson reacted to the report and stated, "This is completely false and rooted in pure fantasy. The real story is the illegal weaponization of the justice department and their witch-hunts targeted to influence an election in order to try and prevent President Trump from returning to the White House." Same Trump Lawyer Warned Ex-POTUS Donald Trump About Hiding Classified Documents Before the FBI raid on his Florida home, reports indicate that Corcoran also warned Trump that hiding classified documents from his time as president might lead to a criminal investigation. According to The Guardian, Jack Smith's federal investigation into the Trump classified documents in Mar-a-Lago is now focusing on why Trump did not fully comply with the subpoena for the documents. READ MORE: Donald Trump Rape Case: Judge Allows Grab 'Em by the P*ssy' Tape as Evidence Notably, Smith's investigation is looking at whether the ex-POTUS "arranged for boxes of classified documents to be moved out of the storage room so he could illegally retain them." Trump valet Walt Nauta reportedly told the Justice Department that the former president told him to move boxes out of the storage room before and after the subpoena. This act of moving the boxes was even caught on subpoenaed surveillance footage. Trump Lawyer Resigned as Lead Attorney for Donald Trump Classified Documents Probe After the Justice Department subpoenaed Corcoran after it was found that Trump lied to him about the hidden classified documents, the embattled Trump Lawyer resigned as the lead in the defense of Trump for the Mar-a-Lago classified documents case. While he is still part of the Trump legal team, he is no longer involved with that particular case as he may be compelled to testify against his client for lying to him about the documents that were left in Mar-a-Lago. MSNBC has pointed out that the attorney-client privilege between Trump and Corcoran was pierced because of the crime-fraud exception, as there is evidence that Trump lied to him through their communications, both written and verbal. READ MORE; Donald Trump Suffers Another Legal Defeat as Judge Tosses Out Lawsuit Vs. New York Times This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Trump lawyer says he was BLOCKED from searching Trump office at Mar-a-Lago for classified documents - Glenn Kirschner Tragic news emerged as the search for a missing Missouri ER doctor, who had been missing since last week, took a devastating turn. John Forsyth, a 49-year-old father of eight and a dedicated physician at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, has been found dead, according to his brother's statement Tuesday. The unsettling disappearance of Dr. Forsyth began on May 21, shortly after he sent a text message to his new fiancee, assuring her that he would be with her "in a little bit." The subsequent days were filled with worry and concern as his whereabouts remained unknown. Richard Forsyth, the brother of the deceased doctor, shared the heartbreaking news Tuesday that officials in northwest Arkansas had discovered John's lifeless body. Expressing shock and disbelief, Richard alluded to the possibility of foul play and anticipated further details from the upcoming investigation. Richard described his brother's work ethic and emphasized John's unwavering commitment to his profession, remarking, "He'd keep working even if his eyes fell out of their sockets." Such dedication made John's sudden absence more alarming, serving as an early warning sign for his concerned loved ones. John Forsyth had dedicated 15 years of service to Mercy Hospital, exhibiting remarkable punctuality and an impeccable attendance record throughout his tenure, according to his brother. Cassville Police Detective Stuart Lombard revealed to Fox News Digital that Dr. Forsyth's fiancee was the last person known to have been in contact with him before his disappearance. READ NEXT: Missing Michigan Doctor Found Dead Missouri ER Doctor Got Engaged 3 Days Before He Disappeared Three days before he went missing, John Forsyth, the Missouri ER doctor, had recently become engaged after finalizing his divorce from his first wife, according to his brother, Richard. The divorce proceedings, described as uncontested, had concluded on May 11, resulting in a significant financial obligation for Richard's brother. He was required to make monthly payments exceeding $19,000 in alimony and child support to his ex-wife. Adding to the situation's complexity, the missing individual had planned a trip to visit friends and family in Idaho and Utah. The trip, scheduled for May 22, held special significance as his second-oldest daughter had recently completed a Mormon mission in the area. Missouri ER Doctor Went Missing The disappearance of a 49-year-old Missouri ER doctor has left the community and his loved ones distraught. John was reported missing on May 21 when he failed to attend his scheduled shift at Mercy Hospital in Cassville. Concern intensified when authorities located the doctor's black Infiniti parked in a remote area near a water park in Cassville. They discovered his wallet, two phones, a laptop, and other personal belongings inside the unlocked vehicle, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding his disappearance, KOMU reports. "It doesn't seem like a person who left with a plan," Richard said. "Right now, we don't have any breaks in the case. I'm confused, and I'm worried. And I don't like this one bit," he added. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, conducted an extensive search within a 9-mile radius of the water park to aid the search and gather information. The search efforts involved search teams with canines and drones, hoping to uncover any clues that may shed light on the doctor's whereabouts. Additionally, the doctor's family and friends have taken to social media, creating a dedicated Facebook page to raise awareness and gather any relevant information. As the days pass, the doctor's loved ones grow increasingly desperate for answers. Tiffany Andelin, the doctor's sister, expressed her profound sorrow, fear, and confusion in a Facebook post on Monday, marking a week since her brother was last seen. READ MORE: Guyana Dormitory Fire Update This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Bert Hoover WATCH: Police expand the search for missing Cassville, Mo., doctor; brother shares concern - From KY3 News - Springfield, Mo. An active member of the Easton community was charged with criminal offenses Wednesday over an incident alleged to have occurred while he was driving a school transportation van last summer. Lance M. Wheeler, 55, of the 100 block of South Ninth Street in Eastons West Ward, told lehighvalleylive.com he was handcuffed and taken into custody while helping with relief efforts for victims of Mondays devastating row-home fire in the citys West Ward. I didnt do anything wrong, he told a reporter. The people know who I am. Wheeler, who was elected in November 2021 as a Pennsylvania state constable for Eastons Sixth Ward, ran unsuccessfully for Easton City Council in the May 16 primary election. Wheeler faces charges after three juveniles allege they were abused last Aug. 29 by a Wilson Area School District van driver identified as Wheeler, according to court records. Wilson Borough police wrote in the records that the charges stem from three referrals to ChildLine, Pennsylvanias child abuse reporting hotline. The van is equipped with audio and video recording equipment, police noted. Wheeler is accused of threatening and yelling at three boys ages 12, 14 and 16, while they were passengers on the van, according to court records. Wheeler and the three were arguing, and he is accused of giving them his home address and telling them, specifically the older boy, to meet at his home presumably for a fight, police wrote. Wheeler allegedly also commented on the 16-year-olds hair, that its going to be ripped out when he gets off the van, to which the teen commented that that was a threat, according to police. I know, Wheeler allegedly responded. Wheeler further told the 16-year-old he would be the last to be dropped off and Ill make you shut up, after which the teen fled the bus via the rear emergency door followed by the 14-year-old with the van leaving the two behind, according to police. Wheeler then continued to verbally abuse the 12-year-old, saying, Im going to shut your mouth, and calling him a racial epithet, police said. Once all the students were off the van, Wheeler was recorded speaking to a teenage relative about the incident, cursing and telling the relative to whoop the two older juveniles, according to police. The relative later acknowledged to police having received the phone call from Wheeler but never any follow-up to say hed been joking, court records state. Wheeler told lehighvalleylive.com he tried to arrange to turn himself in on Thursday to Wilson police but instead he was taken into custody at 1021 Ferry St. where he was helping to collect donations for the victims of the Memorial Day fire that burned 15 row homes in the 900 block of Ferry Street, displacing dozens of people. He was arraigned in Northampton County Central Court before District Judge Alan Mege on two misdemeanor counts each of simple assault, terroristic threats and harassment, in addition to a single count of misdemeanor corruption of minors. Wheeler was released on $25,000 unsecured bail. A preliminary hearing was tentatively scheduled for June 21 for Mege to determine if there is sufficient evidence to send the charges toward trial in the Northampton County Court of Common Pleas. The incident was investigated by Wilson Borough police and a county detective. Wilson Area schools Superintendent Douglas Wagner declined to comment on the arrest, saying its a personnel matter. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. The emergency shelter established on Monday night at Paxinosa Elementary School for victims of the Memorial Day blaze that left 61 West Ward residents without homes will close on Tuesday night, Executive Director for the American Red Cross PA Rivers Chapter Peter Brown told lehighvalleylive.com. The emergency shelter is scheduled to shut its doors at 7 p.m., Brown said. Today, we provided casework and immediate assistance to 13 households, with a total of 32 residents. Nine children, 21 adults and two senior citizens, Brown said. Additional support for health, mental health and spiritual care will be provided in the coming days. Paxinosa Elementary School sits just a few blocks away from where the homes were destroyed. William Slotter, disaster action team manager for the Pennsylvania Rivers chapter of the American Red Cross, which covers the region, said many families had opted not to sign into the shelter, which may have contributed to its decision to close. 29 1 / 29 Easton fire aftermath, May 30, 2023 On Tuesday morning, residents of the 900 block of Ferry Street, between Ninth and 10th Streets, returned to their fire-ravaged homes with hopes of recovering whatever uncharred items they could find amidst the rubble. And some families only returned to look at what was left of childhood homes that burned down overnight. As of Tuesday afternoon, there were still reports of families unable to locate pets lost during the fire. Easton Fire Chief Henry Hennings called the event the citys biggest fire in recent years and the first time hes ever seen a six-alarm response in the city. Three firefighters had to be treated for heat exhaustion, including one who was taken to the hospital for a medical evaluation and has since been released. It took hundreds of firefighters from more than 30 agencies over six hours to bring the flames under control, according to reports. The cause and origin of Mondays blaze remains under investigation by fire officials. Multiple online fundraisers have since been launched to aid victims. One GoFundMe fundraiser states a table on Saturday will be set up all day to collect donations at Eastons Centre Square. City Councilwoman Taiba Sultana also posted on Facebook Tuesday she was collecting clothing donations for families in the 1000 block of Ferry Street. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Glenn Epps can be reached at gepps@lehighvalleylive.com or glenn_epps_on Twitter. An Allentown couple is accused of filing more than a hundred false pandemic-related unemployment claims and hundreds of false tax returns, schemes through which they sought $3.2 million in government funds. Charges were filed Thursday, May 25, against Jose Baez and his wife, Jessenia Cordero, according to online court records. Baezs attorney, Michael Huff of Philadelphia, didnt immediately return an emailed message seeking comment. No attorney was listed for Cordero. She could not be reached for comment. UPDATE: Adult and teen charged in Pennsylvania shooting that killed 2 young boys, man Lebanon police have a person in custody who is potentially linked to a Tuesday night shooting in the city that killed three people, two of them children. Late Tuesday, police said three males ages 8, 9 and 19, died and a fourth one was injured following the incident around 10:05 p.m. along the 400 block of North Fifth Street. All four were found with gunshot wounds at the scene, according to police. It appears at the early stages of this investigation that one of these victims was targeted. The other three victims were uninvolved, Lebanon Police Chief Bret Fisher said at a Wednesday press conference. He declined to say which person was targeted. One person died at the scene, and two others died at hospitals in Lebanon and Dauphin counties, police said. The fourth person, a 33-year-old man, underwent surgery and is recovering at a Dauphin County hospital. Fisher said Lebanon County SWAT executed a search warrant on North Ninth Street Wednesday morning. The person of interest in the triple homicide was taken into custody around that time, police said. During the execution of that search warrant one person was taken into custody. He is a person of interest in this crime but he was taken into custody in an unrelated matter, Fisher said. Lebanon City police are investigating the homicides alongside the Lebanon County District Attorneys Office, Pennsylvania State Police and other Lebanon County police departments. Police said the identities of the people killed will be released at a later time. At this time, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims families, said Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello. A doctor with a Hanover Township, Northampton County, office is accused in a lawsuit of billing the government $6.5 million for surgeries his patients allegedly didnt need. Interventional radiologist James McGuckin of Radnor was sued earlier this month in federal court. A news release from the U.S. Attorneys office says he and his companies filed more than 500 claims for unnecessary surgeries to arteries in his patients legs between Jan. 1, 2016, and Dec. 31, 2019. McGuckin didnt return a phone message left for him at his medical office in King of Prussia. Police are investigating the theft of a large amount of cash and cannabis products from a New Jersey dispensary on Memorial Day. The robbery occurred early Monday at the Ayr Dispensary in Eatontown, authorities said. An employee arriving for a shift at the Monmouth County dispensary alerted police to the theft, but officers said the robber or robbers had already fled. A Lehigh County man was convicted at trial last week of breaching the U.S. Capitol during the riots on Jan. 6, 2021. Craig Michael Bingert, 31, was found guilty of assaulting police, breaking through a police line and storming the Capitol during a joint session of Congress, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorneys office. Bingerts attorney, Allen Howard Orenberg, of Potomac, Maryland, said he plans to appeal all seven convictions. Bingerts indictment says he lives in Washington Township, Lehigh County, although the news release says he lives in Allentown. Bingert and 34-year-old Isaac Steve Sturgeon, of Dillon, Montana, grabbed a barricade and pushed it into a line of police officers, then joined other rioters crawling under the barricade to break the police line, the release says. They stayed in the Capitol, making their way to the inaugural stage until law enforcement removed them. The men were part of a mob disrupting the count of electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election. Bingert and Sturgeon were each convicted of obstruction of an official proceeding; assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers; civil disorder; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds; and engaging in an act of physical violence in the grounds or any of the Capitol buildings. The nonjury trial was presided over by U.S. District Court Judge Royce C. Lamberth. Lambert delivered the verdict on May 24. Bingert will be sentenced Aug. 25. More than 1,000 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 320 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement officers, the news release says. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to Lehighvalleylive.com. Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. A Phillipsburg man is in county jail for allegedly sexually assaulting a person at gunpoint, Warren County Prosecutor James Pfeiffer said. Police said the silver revolver they believe the man used during the attack was actually reported stolen out of Pennsylvania some time before. Qasim Woods, 41, is charged with unlawful possession of a weapon and tampering with evidence, as well as aggravated sexual assault, possession of a weapon, making terroristic threats and receiving stolen property. A Laois school for severe to profoundly disabled children has announced that pre-construction work has finally begun for their badly needed building. Kolbe Special School shared their photographs of barriers and pipework, and gave an update. "We can confirm that the enabling works have started on site," they said. However the start of construction is still months away, with a callout for tenders yet to start. "The tender documents will be ready to be issued to the shortlisted contractors in the first week in June. Although we have a long road ahead, its a small step in the right direction," Kolbe Special School said. The school was approved to go to tender on April 12, by Minister for Education Norma Foley, which meant that final tender documents could then be drawn up ready to be priced. The "small step" is on a very long road for Kolbe, who were first promised a new building in the year 2000. More below photos. The school gives education and medical care to 43 of Laois most vulnerable children in largely prefab units, with health and safety issues such as a lack of space and improper insulation. That delay was compounded last March when the Department of Public Expenditure put their project on hold with 57 other schools around Ireland to review costs. A huge crowd attended a public meeting in St Mary's Hall organised by the school to hear of the poor conditions endured by the children and the staff. A street march was planned if the hold was not lifted. The restruction was lifted in early April, when it was understood that ESB preparatory works had already begun on site. The proposed new school, on a site beside the current building, is estimated to cost in the region of 9 million. It will have eight general classrooms, a Hall, specialist educational spaces, administration areas, circulation areas, and other ancillary accommodation. A national database should be established for reporting on violent family deaths, also known as familicide. That's the recommendation made by a recent review, which was chaired by solicitor Maura Butler. The independent report by Ms Butler was commissioned by the Department of Justice, and consulted a wide range of stakeholders, including: State agencies, family members of victims, non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Ms Butler was asked to recommend how relatives affected by such crimes could be better supported. She said that, in addition to a national database, a new agency for domestic, sexual and gender-based violence should be created, and better training should be provided for those likely to encounter victims of these forms of violence. The deaths examined in the report occurred between 2000 and 2018, where all legal procedures had been completed. A consultative group with family members of victims will now be established to help implement the recommendations, alongside an Inter-Departmental Group and an advisory group of relevant NGOs. Commenting on the news, Sarah Benson, the chief executive of Women's Aid, told RTE's Morning Ireland programme that it is crucial that families, friends and close contacts of the perpetrators and victims are involved in this process. She explained: "A coming together and a sharing of information... not to find blame, and not to, replace a court of law if that's what's required, but to help us say were there warning signs that we missed, where opportunities missed." The review by Ms Butler can be accessed here. If you have been affected by this article, you can find resources to help you by contacting Women's Aid at 1800 341 900 or emailing helpline@womensaid.ie, or Men's Aid by ringing 01 554 3811 or emailing hello@mensaid.ie. Additionally, you can find resources to help you by emailing Samaritans Ireland at jo@samaritans.ie, or by ringing 116 123. The Minister for Rural and Community Development has announced an initiative to develop outdoor recreation activities on Irish bogs. Minister Heather Humphreys announced the new approach today (May 31) with a view to boosting tourism in rural communities and revitalising towns and villages. Speaking during a visit to County Offaly today, the Minister said, "Through Our Rural Future and the Hidden Heartlands initiative, we are seeing more and more people choosing to visit our wonderful midlands counties the likes of Offaly, Leitrim, Roscommon, Longford, East Clare, Westmeath, Cavan, North Tipperary and Galway. "This initiative, in conjunction with Bord na Mona, is about capitalising on the huge tourism potential that is very much on show in the Midlands." She continued: "My Department is already progressing an excellent strategy with Coillte in terms of developing our forest parks places that are great locations for families and tourists alike to visit. "And today we are taking the next step in relation to our boglands turning them into ideal locations for recreational use. The Minister added: "This is all about working with Bord na Mona to develop and manage high-quality, enjoyable and safe access to our great outdoors. "Its about opening up these hidden gems so that more people can reap the benefits." Head of Land and Habitats at Bord na Mona, Mr Ger Breen,said, "Bord na Mona is delighted to have secured funding from the Department of Rural Community Development to develop an Outdoor Recreation Strategy. "This funding represents a major milestone in realising the Bord na Mona vision of rehabilitated peatlands existing side by side with renewable energy assets and sensitively developed, biodiversity and natural spaces for public enjoyment. "The development of recreational spaces within our estate will provide both health and wellbeing benefits for our local communities and support the growth of sustainable tourism within the Midlands, helping to regenerate the local economy." A new pilot primary school programme to improve childrens mental wellbeing is being rolled out in Laois. Laois is one of seven counties nationally selected for the programme which aims to help primary school children in the wake of the Covid pandemic. The Irish National Teachers Organisation (INTO) has welcomed the announcement by Minister for Education Norma Foley regarding the pilot in-school counselling service. The programme is to be rolled out in counties Laois, Cavan, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Tipperary and Monaghan. The new service is in response to the campaign led by the INTO and is a significant step in addressing what they say is the growing need for mental health support among primary school pupils. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental wellbeing of children, leading to an increased number of pupils seeking behavioural and emotional interventions. "Referrals to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service and other relevant services have risen by a staggering 40%," the INTO said. "Some 237,000 children are living in poverty in Ireland with 68,000 children on waiting lists for essential services. 3,500 are homeless and 1,800 avail of International Protection Accommodation Services," the INTO stated. "As teachers, INTO members have witnessed first-hand the adverse effects of mental ill-health and poor emotional well-being on pupils. The lengthy waiting lists for specialist services have only compounded these challenges, leaving many children without the support they desperately need," they said. Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, Sean Fleming welcomed the pilot programme of counselling and mental health supports for Laois primary schools. I would like to welcome the news today that Laois has been selected as one of the seven counties for this pilot programme. All primary schools in the county will be able to benefit from this for the first time, from September 2023, said Minister Fleming. This new programme is designed to recognise the impact of COVID-19 on primary school-aged children and will work to alleviate the mental health challenges, which may be experienced in Laois schools. The programme will provide for one-to-one counselling sessions in Laois primary schools. Schools will have access to up to eight counselling sessions for each individual child, with children with special educational needs also benefiting from the programme, he said. He expressed delight at the inclusion of Laois in the pilot. It is excellent that Laois has been selected as a county for this pilot programme. It is up to the schools to avail of this new opportunity, which will be of significant benefit to schoolchildren, said Minister Fleming. I encourage every Laois primary school to take part in this new scheme. All primary schools will receive further information during the next week, including information for parents, he added. Senator and Green Party Minister, Pippa Hackett also welcomed the programme. I am delighted to see that Laois has been selected as one of seven counties to pilot the provision of inclusive, one-to-one counselling sessions for primary schools. This is a measure announced in Budget 23 and it is excellent to see the detail of the delivery. While I believe all of us regret such services are necessary, we know that mental health resilience in our children is more important than ever. I believe this intervention will have lifelong benefits for those children who are included, she said. I look forward to the roll-out of the pilot, the review and learnings from it, and the potential for extending it nationwide, she added. Laois PPN hosted a Bike Heritage Tour on Saturday, May 20 in Vicarstown as part of Bike week and their overall Climate Action Project 2023. The Public Participation Network say members were treated to a fantastic bike ride taking in many heritage sites along the way. The tour was led by Laois Archaeologist Sean Murray. To read more about the event see below picture. To see more pictures by Renata Metelicka TAP NEXT or ARROW. There is no better way to explore our heritage, than on the leisurely pace of a bike. We cycled along the canal, which itself was completed in 1791, as a sustainable form of transport, and got to stop off at the Grattan Aqueduct, named after Henry Grattan who donated some of his Moyanna Estate for its construction by the Grand Canal Company. Taking the country roads, we cycled to Bellegrove House, a 19th Century mansion which was owned by the infamous John George Adair, a business tycoon and progressive farmer, who was not fondly remembered by small farm holders, of whom he evicted many throughout Ireland and most notably at Derryveagh in Co. Donegal. Bellegrove was accidentally burnt to the ground in 1887, two years after the death of "Blackjack". His widowed wife Cornelia, built the lavish Church of the Accension at Rathadaire in his honour, which was designed by the emanant Irish Architect James Franklin Fuller, and with thanks to the kind Reverend Ven Leslie Stevenson we got to see the interior and superb stained-glass windows inside. At Ballyadding we hopped off the bikes again to visit the Medieval Church ruin and the reputed grave of an ODempsey Highwayman, the notorious Cahir na gCapall, who was hung in Maryborough Gaol in 1735. With our tummies rumbling, we were glad to arrive at the Fisherman's thatched Inn, where we were refreshed for the return journey to Vicarstown along the Blueway, a fine day had by all, said Sean. Dan Bergin Laois PPN Resource Worker thanked Sean for a fantastic event. We received lots of positive feedback from our members who attended and enjoyed both the leisurely 21km cycle and Seans engaging and informative stories about the local areas rich heritage. Sean has a wealth of knowledge and a way of weaving a story, never more evident than in his book 101 Historic Curiosities in County Laois. As part of our Climate Action Project for 2023 Laois PPN hope to inspire our members through events like this that showcase the small positive actions they can take, such as active travel, whilst celebrating our wonderful county, he said. Laois PPN consists of 650+ Member Groups from the Community, Social Inclusion and Environmental Pillars. All groups registered with Laois PPN are given the opportunity to attend Laois PPN events. To join Laois PPN complete the application on the Laois PPN website www.laoisppn.ie After 16 years awarding third level student scholarships, the Naughton Foundation Scholarship scheme is once again reminding students from County Kildare that the 2023 closing date is fast approaching and inviting all applicants to submit their entries. The Naughton Scholarships are a scheme of scholarships to promote the study of engineering, science and technology at third level by students in Ireland. Each year from February to May, Leaving Certificate students can apply for a scholarship if they intend on studying science, computer science, mathematics, engineering or technology at third level that year. The closing date for receipt of application forms for The Naughton Foundation Scholarship 2023 is Friday, 30th June 2023 at midnight. There will be one guaranteed scholarship for each of the participating counties, 36 allocated in total. The Naughton Foundation was established by Dr Martin and Carmel Naughton in 1994 and its goal is to support worthwhile causes in the arts and education. In 2008 they decided to create the scholarship programme to increase their support for Leaving Certificate students who would like to study engineering, mathematics, science, computer science and technology at third level in Ireland. Originally the scholarship programme only applied to students from counties Louth, Meath and Monaghan however it has since expanded nationwide and students from all Counties in the Republic of Ireland are eligible to apply. Students are invited to apply if they are currently attending secondary schools in County Kildare, and if they are studying two or more of the following subjects- physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, mathematics, and applied mathematics. Each Naughton Scholarship is valued at 20,000 so it is a contribution of 5,000 for each year of the students third-level course for a student studying science, engineering, maths or technology in any publicly funded university or third-level institution in Ireland, including Northern Ireland. The school of each winner is also awarded 1,000. Applications must be submitted before, or on this date to be considered eligible for the scholarship, this deadline will not be extended. The 2023 application forms for The Naughton Foundation Scholarship Programme are available for download and can be completed online on The Naughton Foundation website. www.thenaughtonfoundation.com The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 30th June 2023. Bristow (Ire) Ltd., has been awarded the new Irish Coastguard search and rescue aviation (SAR) contract. The contract will provide for the day and night-time operation of four helicopter bases including Sligo, alongside Shannon, Waterford and Dublin. In addition to the helicopter service, the new Coast Guard aviation service will, for the first time, also include a fixed wing aircraft element. Local Fine Gael TD, Frank Feighan has this afternoon welcomed the decision by government to award the 10-year contract worth more than 670m. There was much concern a numregarding the future of the service at Sligo and I am glad that those fears are put to rest with this announcement. I want to thank my colleague Hildegard Naughton alongside the Tanaiste and now Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar for ensuring my calls and efforts to secure Strandhill has a rescue base was secured. I want to thank Minister Jack Chambers for his role in providing funding for the new service provider contract and to the manager and board of Sligo Airport for all their efforts in bring the facilities up to the new standards required, concluded Deputy Feighan. German KFOR soldiers in Zvecan, northern Kosovo, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. BOJAN SLAVKOVIC / AP NATO will send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests after clashes with ethnic Serbs left 30 international soldiers wounded, the alliance said on Tuesday, May 30. The latest violence in the region has stirred fear of a renewal of the 1998-99 conflict in Kosovo that claimed more than 10,000 lives, left more than 1 million people homeless and resulted in a NATO peacekeeping mission that has lasted nearly a quarter of a century. The clashes grew out of a confrontation that unfolded last week after ethnic Albanian officials elected in votes overwhelmingly boycotted by Serbs entered municipal buildings to take office. When Serbs tried to block them, Kosovo police fired tear gas to disperse the crowd. More violence followed on Monday when Serbs clashed with police and NATO peacekeepers. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said an additional reserve battalion would be put on high readiness in case additional troops are needed. "These are prudent steps," said Stoltenberg, who made the announcement in Oslo after talks with the Norwegian prime minister. The NATO-led peacekeeping mission in the region is known as KFOR and currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. Also Tuesday, KFOR's multinational peacekeepers used metal fences and barbed-wire barriers to reinforce positions in a northern town that has become a hot spot. The troops sealed off the municipal building in Zvecan, where unrest on Monday sent tensions soaring. Belgrade does not recognize Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence. Ethnic Albanians make up most of the population, but Kosovo has a restive Serb minority in the north of the country bordering Serbia. Stoltenberg condemned the violence and warned that NATO troops would take all necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens in Kosovo. He urged both sides to refrain from further irresponsible behavior and to return to EU-backed talks on improving relations. The United States and most European Union nations have recognized Kosovo's independence from Serbia while Russia and China have sided with Belgrade. China on Tuesday expressed its support for Serbias efforts to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Moscow has repeatedly criticized Western policies in the dispute. In response to last week's confrontation, Serbia put the countrys military on the highest state of alert and sent more troops to the border with Kosovo. The Serbs protested again Monday, insisting that both ethnic Albanian mayors and Kosovo police must leave northern Kosovo. The confrontations worsened when Serbs attempted to enter the municipal offices in Zvecan, 45 kilometers (28 miles) north of the capital, Pristina. They clashed first with Kosovo police and then with the international peacekeepers. In a video message issued Tuesday evening, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said the mayors elected on April 23 are the only ones who have the legitimacy to be at the municipal buildings and to the citizens service. According to the prime minister, who named some Serb businessmen who obliged their employees to protest, instigators of the violence have been identified. "In Kosovo, power is won through elections, not with violence and crime," he said. The US and the EU recently stepped up their efforts to negotiate an agreement between Serbia and Kosovo, fearing instability as Russias war rages in Ukraine. The EU has made it clear to both Serbia and Kosovo that they must normalize relations to make any progress toward joining the bloc. "We have too much violence in Europe already today. We cannot afford another conflict," the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell told reporters in Brussels. As a first step to easing tensions, he said, Kosovo police should suspend the operation focusing on municipal buildings in the north, and violent protesters should "stand down." In response to the recent unrest, NATO said it had decided to increase its KFOR troops by deploying new "operational reserve forces" for the Western Balkans, without specifying a number. Another unit will be on standby "to be ready to reinforce KFOR if necessary." A KFOR statement said 30 soldiers 11 Italians and 19 Hungarians with some hurt by fractures and burns from improvised explosive incendiary devices. It added that three Hungarian soldiers had been "wounded by the use of firearms," but their injuries were not life-threatening. Serb officials said 52 people were injured, including three seriously. Four protesters were detained, according to Kosovo police. "Both parties need to take full responsibility for what happened and prevent any further escalation, rather than hide behind false narratives," KFOR commander Major General Angelo Michele Ristuccia said. Belgrade and Pristina have blamed each other for the escalation. Meanwhile, ambassadors from the so-called Quint countries France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the US met on Monday with Kurti in Pristina and on Tuesday with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Belgrade. Vucic later also met with the ambassadors to Serbia of Russia and China. In a statement from his office, Vucic expressed "immense dissatisfaction and strong concern" over what he described as international "tolerance" of Kurti's actions. Urgent measures to guarantee the security of the Serbs in Kosovo are a precondition for any future talks, Vucic said. Russia and China both have sharply criticized Western backing for Kosovo's independence. Russian President Vladimir Putin often has cited the "precedent" of NATO bombardment of Serbia in 1999 to justify his unlawful annexation of parts of Ukraine. The conflict in Kosovo erupted in 1998 when separatist ethnic Albanians rebelled against Serbia's rule. Belgrade responded with a brutal crackdown. About 13,000 people, mostly ethnic Albanians, died. NATOs military intervention in 1999 eventually forced Serbia to pull out of the territory and paved the way for establishing the KFOR peacekeeping mission. Le Monde with AP NO MEANS no, said Judge Tom ODonnell when sentencing a man for sexually assaulting a sleeping woman. Colan Eardley, aged 33, of Ducart House, Steamboat Quay, Limerick city pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual assault on Nicola Connery, who waived her anonymity. Prosecuting barrister John OSullivan, instructed by State Solicitor Padraig Mawe, outlined the case with the assistance of Garda Mary OConnor. Mr OSullivan said the offences occurred in late 2017 / early 2018 when Ms Connery was aged 21. For three years prior Ms Connery was in a relationship with the defendant. They were living at Castlecourt apartments, Clancy Strand. In March 2018 the injured party entered Henry Street garda station and made a complaint that she was sexually molested by her then boyfriend while she slept. After the last incident she ended the relationship, said Mr OSullivan. The barrister said in each of the three sexual assaults, the victim found when she woke up that she had clothes removed and her vagina was very wet. She knew he had done something of a sexual nature to her while she slept, said Mr OSullivan. Mr Eardley was arrested in April 2018 and believed consent was implied because they were in a sexual relationship. Mr OSullivan said the accused acknowledged sexually touching her in an effort to arouse her. Prior to the three matters she made it clear to him that sexual advances while she slept were not welcome. She goes into a very deep sleep. He admitted to Ms Connery he did not have her consent in Facebook messages, said Mr OSullivan, who read out Ms Connerys victim impact statement. She said she doesnt trust any men except her father. I feel I cant trust anyone. I dont see myself being in a relationship in the future. Any friendships I have are with girls, read out Mr OSullivan on behalf of Ms Connery. The victim impact statement also outlined how worried the injured party's parents are about her and how she, in turn, worries about them. The court heard that Mr Eardley told gardai he loved Ms Connery and planned to propose. I loved her with all my heart, he said. Lorcan Connolly, barrister for Mr Eardley, said his client has instructed him to apologise unreservedly. She is entirely, utterly blameless. His plea of guilty has avoided a trial and the stress and upset in contested cases. He has realised consent cant be presumed in a relationship - somebody who is asleep cant consent to a sexual act. The main aggravating factor is she was asleep, said Mr Connolly, who added that his client has a supportive family and was accompanied by his father in court who is displeased with his sons conduct. The barrister said Mr Eardley takes antipsychotic and antidepressant medication and Ms Connery was very good to him during their relationship. Mr Connolly said his client has acknowledged his wrong doing and it is not a case for immediate custodial sentence. I am not detracting from the seriousness of the matter. It is a particularly unique case. He asks for mercy and leniency, said Mr Connolly. Judge Tom ODonnell said consent is at the heart of this and no means no. It was abundantly clear what was permitted and not permitted. He bears a high level of culpability. The consequences were clearly outlined in the victim impact statement, said Judge ODonnell, who added that there is no such thing as implied consent - the lady said no. Full stop. The judge said the guilty plea spared a trial and the victim having to go in the witness box and answer questions about her private life. A plea of guilty is a public acknowledgement. The imposition of a custodial sentence would be disproportionate. Others might disagree with me, said Judge ODonnell, who also spoke of the time it has taken for the case to come before him. He imposed a fully suspended two-year sentence on Mr Eardley. Ms Connerys mother said she did not agree with the judge and said her daughter is going through hell. THERE are currently no plans to extend the opening hours of the injury or medical assessment units (MAU) at St John's Hospital to 24/7, the UL Hospitals Group (ULHG) CEO has confirmed. Professor Colette Cowan made the statement in response to a question at the Regional Health Forum West meeting, last week. Last month the HSEs National Acute Division approved the groups application for 5.2m to provide staffing resources at St Johns and Nenagh hospitals and extend opening hours across seven days. Since this funding was approved, there have been no closures at any of our MAUs, Ms Cowan said. Recruitment is ongoing at St Johns, Nenagh and Ennis hospitals for a number of specialties including medical doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, health and social care professionals and administrative staff. Last year was the busiest year on record for the injury units across the three hospitals with a total of 38,523 patients attending the units. As more of these staff take up post, the number of additional slots available for medical assessment will gradually increase, Ms Cowan said. Once all staff are in post, the overall effect of this investment will be the creation of an additional 7,176 slots, she added. The current opening hours for the St Johns Local Injury Unit are 8am to 7pm, every day. A NOTEWORTHY part of Limerick's collective history will go under the hammer this Wednesday. Money printed by The Workers of Limerick in 1919 is part of an online auction by Noonans of Mayfair in London. It was during the Limerick Soviet or general strike against British militarism. The three lots made up of one shilling, five shilling and 10 shillings are all guided at between 2,000 and 2,600. Andrew Pattison, head of the bank note department at Noonans, said the notes are being sold by a collector of Irish notes. While there may be interest close to Limerick, the major bidders for such materials are often international. The notes themselves really are exceptionally rare. We know that although thousands were printed, only around 200-400 of each denomination were issued, so there werent very many to begin with. The vast majority of these were redeemed (paid in), leaving only around 30 examples in private hands today. With most of these firmly in collections, this is a highly unusual opportunity to acquire a complete set, said Mr Pattison. Dr Paul OBrien, Mary Immaculate lecturer, historian and Limerick Leader columnist, said it showed the workers determination in their cause that they issued their own bank notes. It suggests that the Soviet had links with local businesses who would accept the notes as valid currency. The issuing of the notes also helped fund their cause and avoided the need to tax the workers who they represented. The issuing of their own promissory notes helped to alleviate some of the strikers financial pressure. The notes themselves could be viewed as another means in which to get their message out as they had the following inscription General Strike against British Militarism 1919 and on the face it had The Workers of Limerick Promise to Pay the bearer the sum of __ shillings, said Dr OBrien. He said the notes that are now for sale at auction are important historical artefacts and provide a direct link to the Limerick Soviet which emerged during the fight for Irish independence. It would be great if they were acquired for the city, said Dr OBrien of the rare pieces. The background to the Limerick Soviet was the beginning of the Irish War of Independence. A general strike was organised by the Limerick Trades and Labour Council, as a protest against the British Army's declaration of a Special Military Area under the Defence of the Realm Act, which covered most of Limerick city and a part of the county. The Limerick Soviet existed for a two-week period from April 14 to 27, 1919 The Soviet ran the city for the period, printed its own money and organised the supply of food. AN URGENT review of traffic in Charleville is underway to facilitate the preparation of safety improvement proposals. Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and Cork County Council have met to commence the review after recent deaths of two pedestrians on the main street of the Limerick-Cork border town. The news has been welcomed by Limerick city Councillor Olivia OSullivan, who was personally affected by the issue as her aunt Kathleen OSullivan died in December 2008, following an incident on that same stretch of road. It personally affected my family and it was very stressing at the time. It happened to my aunt in 2008. And, to think that there are still people being killed in a similar way on that stretch of road in 2023, it's very hard to comprehend. Every time theres another pedestrian death such as weve seen recently, it brings it all back for the families that have been affected over the years, she commented. Cllr OSullivan said she has been in touch with fellow councillors in the north Cork area to discuss the urgent matter, following the recent deaths of two pedestrians. I was in touch with Cllr John Paul O'Shea, who informed me that they've been working to try and develop a relief road to take the trucks off the main street. That's obviously the major problem for pedestrians because when you put vulnerable pedestrians near these huge trucks, it is a recipe for disaster, she explained. According to the councillor, progress is being made with the funding. They need to act on it for the safety of people, particularly vulnerable pedestrians, who can't wait until the N20 project is complete. It can't wait, she stressed. Cork County Council have confirmed they met with TII. The purpose of this review will be to expedite the delivery on Main Street of the existing Part 8 Scheme for pedestrians near Charleville Library, assist Cork County Council to devise proposals to address pedestrian safety. It is likely that the nature of the street will require alterations to improve the visibility and safety of pedestrians. The statement added: Any long-term solution will need to take by-passing HGVs out of Charleville altogether via either an acceleration of the construction of a portion of the N/M20 project, or via a new relief road or upgrading of existing routes. Cork County Council also confirmed that have requested TII funding to progress the planning of options to provide traffic relief for Charleville and that such a scheme be funded, and progressed, in addition to the N/M20 Project together with developing safety improvement proposals for the town centre. Over the last 10 years, eight people have died on the main street of the town. In recent weeks, there have been two fatal collisions on the street. Margaret Lyons, 72, died after being struck by a lorry on the town's main road. A few weeks earlier, another fatal victim, Pat Galvin, also died on the same stretch of road. A public meeting regarding pedestrian safety in town has been called to take place at Charleville Park Hotel this Wednesday at 7.30pm. Speaking of this week's public meeting in Charleville, Cllr Olivia O'Sullivan noted: There's obviously huge concerns in the locality there. I know this is in County Cork but it affects us too. A lot of people travel that route on a daily basis to go to work. Charleville is just over the border from us. We want to see this happen just as much as the people of Cork, it's gone out for too long. THE REGION'S largest business representative group, Limerick Chamber has been nominated for four prestigious industry awards. It's been shortlisted for prizes at the All-Ireland Chamber awards, which will be announced at a gala event this Thursday night. Reacting to the news, Limerick Chamber chief executive Dee Ryan said: "Im thrilled for the team in Limerick Chamber who work tirelessly to support our members. Post-pandemic the team fully reviewed our offerings to identify any gaps where our members could be better served and worked hard to excel beyond member expectations. It is a privilege to lead these talented individuals who are committed to supporting businesses." "Limerick Chamber hopes to strive for the very best for our members and we will continue to work toward serving our members as best we can. I am proud of the work of my team in achieving four nominations across such important activities: from lobbying to events to innovation and member supports," she added. Based at 96 O'Connell Street in the city centre, the Chamber was shortlisted in the most innovative project for its implementation of the Limerick Chamber Strategic Development Pipeline, which provides detailed information on companies across the Mid-West. It was also shortlisted for event of the year, its annual Chamber Presidents' Dinner and Regional Business Awards. Its work on its retail monitor is also recognised, while it has also been nominated for its better regions initiative. Ms Ryan said: "We would like to wish every chamber shortlisted the best of luck at the upcoming Chambers Ireland Award, the awards are a fantastic initiative which acknowledges the work and impact of the overall chamber network." THE company that operates Irelands coast guard helicopters, including the Shannon-based Rescue 115, has lost out in a competition for a new government contract. The Government has approved a recommendation from Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan and Minister of State Jack Chambers to offer the next Irish Coast Guard search-and-rescue aviation contract to Bristow Ireland Limited. A statement confirming the decision reads: "The contract will provide for the day and night-time operation of four helicopter bases in Sligo, Shannon, Waterford and Dublin. In addition to the helicopter service, the new Coast Guard aviation service will, for the first time, also include a fixed wing aircraft element." Currently, CHC Ireland operates the SAR contract and it had bid for the new ten-year contract. Reacting to the announcement, its director of operations Rob Tatten said: "CHC have served the people of Ireland for 20 plus years with great distinction. All of our staff have given 100% commitment to The IRCG and Ireland. Many have been recognised for their Life Saving missions with International bravery awards. We thank all our staff for their unflinching commitment to their duty." The new contract will cost approximately 670million and will run for 10 years in the case of the helicopter service and five years in the case of fixed wing element of the service, with options to extend both services out to 13 years. According to the Government statement, the preferred bidder was selected following a comprehensive procurement project undertaken by the Department of Transport. Work to finalise the contracts with Bristow Ireland is underway. HUNDREDS of lion claws and ivory, which were seized on the Shannon Estuary, have been transferred to the National Museum of Ireland, Revenue has confirmed. The seizure took place when a cargo vessel was inspected at Aughinish, near Foynes in December 2022. The contraband, which weighed more than 20kgs, had travelled from Guinea, west Africa to Limerick. According to reports, 18.5kg of lion claws were seized as well as 5.4kg of ivory. Customs officers attached to Shannon Airport confiscated the illegal goods, under the provisions of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and in partnership with Revenue, who are responsible for implementing custom control of imported/exported goods. A spokesperson for the Revenue Commissioners said: During the course of routine operations, customs officers detected a consignment which included ivory and lion claws, on a cargo vessel at Aughinish, County Limerick. They added: "On identification of the ivory and lion claws, officers seized the goods. Seized CITES Items, following a period allowed for appeal, may be retained, destroyed or given to another Agency, as appropriate. In this case, the ivory and lion claws were transferred to the National Museum of Ireland Natural History." The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species aims to protect endangered species of fauna and flora by ensuring that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. Revenue monitors compliance with relevant legislation in respect of such prohibitions and restrictions at points of entry to or exit from the State. Honda has ambitious plans for the future with a lineup of upcoming models, especially in India. Notably, the company unveiled several electric scooters along with other models, specifically tailored for the Indian market. Here are some of the upcoming expected two-wheelers from Honda. 350cc cruiser bike In the realm of the CB350 platform, Honda currently offers the H'ness retro motorcycle and the CB350RS with a cafe racer-inspired style. These bikes allow Honda to compete against the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Hunter 350. However, they lack a direct competitor to the Meteor 350 from Royal Enfield. However, this situation might change in the near future. According to Autocar India, Honda has announced its intention to launch a new 350cc motorcycle by Diwali this year, and it is highly likely that this upcoming addition will be a cruiser designed to rival the Meteor. Anticipate the utilization of the same 348cc long-stroke single-cylinder engine found in the existing CB350 models, albeit with potential modifications. While the current engine may not be inherently known for its bottom-end power, a characteristic typically sought after in cruisers, Honda could potentially fine-tune the gearing and sprocketing to compensate for this. Two electric scooters As per media reports, in the upcoming fiscal year 2024, Honda will venture into the expanding electric two-wheeler market with the introduction of two new electric scooters. These scooters will vary in terms of their powertrain configuration. The first model will feature a fixed battery pack, expected to be positioned in the floorboard based on patent drawings discovered. On the other hand, the second model will incorporate a removable battery pack. It is likely that this scooter will utilize the Honda Mobile Power Pack battery, which is gradually being deployed at swapping stations across the country. There is a possibility that Honda may capitalize on the strong brand recognition of the Activa and potentially name either one or both of these scooters as the Activa electric or e-Activa. A similar approach has been taken by Suzuki with their recently unveiled e-Burgman electric scooter. 125cc scooter and 160cc bike Honda has additional plans in the realm of petrol-powered vehicles for the current fiscal year. Set for FY24 are the launch of a new 125cc scooter and a 160cc motorcycle. The 125cc scooter is expected to share its framework with the Activa 125, but with a sportier design aimed at competing against models such as the TVS NTorq and Suzuki Avenis. As for the 160cc motorcycle, it is speculated to utilize the engine from the X-blade and Unicorn models. However, there are no clear indications regarding the direction Honda will take with this bike. It is possible that we might see an adventure-oriented guise similar to what Honda has done with the CB200X, which is based on the Hornet 2.0. NEW DELHI : K. Krithivasan, who was unveiled as the chief executive officer-designate for Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) on 16 March, will on Thursday assume full-time charge of Indias largest information technology (IT) services firm by market cap. Industry experts and observers said the stepping down of erstwhile chief, Rajesh Gopinathan, isnt expected to pose any uncertainty for the company, for which Krithivasan is the fifth CEO in its 55-year history. Krithivasan, who has been at TCS for over 34 years now, will be the oldest CEO appointment so far. His predecessor, Gopinathan, was the youngest appointee, taking up the role in 2017, aged 46. Industry stakeholders and analysts said the move is not expected to cause any instability for the company, owing to multiple factors. Ruchi Mukhija, vice-president at financial services firm Elara Capital, said, With Krithivasan being an internal person, combined with how weve seen TCS handle past leadership changes, we expect very limited upheavals in the company." She said Krithivasans previous role in TCS, in which he served as the president and head of global banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI) business, may further help during a period of global slowdown in IT spending with the BFSI sector being hit the worst. In his limited interactions with investors, the impression that weve received is that most of the companys policies and strategic decisions will continue as before. As a result, we dont expect to see much material strategic changes, and it should be a smooth transition since Gopinathan will also be there until September," Mukhija said. Apurva Prasad, vice-president, institutional research at HDFC Securities, concurred, adding, There have been multiple leadership transitions across most tier I companies in the BFSI vertical. These include TCS, Infosys and Wipro, and even Cognizant pursuing the sector more aggressively. The intensity of deal winning in the market may go up, which happens during these transitions. We saw that with Wipro earlier as well, and we may see TCS also make a thrust for bigger deals going forward." The BFSI sector contributes around 30% of the entire Indian IT services industrys revenue for the six large-cap entities. TCS, which closed FY23 with operating revenue of 2.25 trillion, drew 86,127 crore, or over 38% of its total revenue from the BFSI sector. Other companies have seen multiple leadership changes in the sector. At Infosys, ex-company president Mohit Joshi quit on March 11 to replace retiring Tech Mahindra chief, CP Gurnani, at the helm later this year. Joshi was one of two Infosys presidents, and resigned shortly after fellow president, Ravi Kumar S, also left the company to join rival IT services firm Cognizant as its chief executive. On 8 November, Wipro appointed Frederic Abecassis as its new BFSI business head for the south-east Asian market. HDFCs Prasad said that as a result of the move, TCS may sign a larger quantum of large deals, which are typically seen as multi-year client contracts valued at over $1 billion. There could be more mega deals at TCS, given the focus on cost optimization and consolidation in the industry and considering that TCS has historically participated well in such market situations. We expected deal sizes to be strong. At the same time, some supply-side factors implying demand for tech deals in the industry have only improved versus earlier, and that does have a positive impact in the scenario of a leadership transition of this nature," he said. TCS shares closed at 3,291 apiece on Wednesday, down 0.72%. The BSE IT index rose 0.35% to 29,346.42 points. The Gujarat Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (GSHSEB or GSEB) has announced the HSC or the Class 12 results for the Arts and Commerce streams today i.e. on May 31. Students can now check their scores on the boards official website i.e. gseb.org . #WATCH | Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB) declared Class 12 exam results today; visuals of students celebrating in Surat pic.twitter.com/Y5vBKw6Qtg ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 The overall pass percentage for the HSC general stream is at 73.27 percent. Last year, the pass percentage for the GSEB 12th Arts and Commerce streams was 86.91 percent. The girls outshined boys with an overall pass percentage of 80.39 percent. The pass percentage of boys stood at 67.03 percent. The results data reveals that both boys and girls have experienced a decline in pass percentage compared to the previous year. The Class 12 exams were conducted from 14-25 March. In the Gujarat 12th general stream result, a total of 5,093 students have achieved a percentile rank above 99. A total of 311 schools in the general stream recorded a remarkable 100 percent pass result, however, this number has decreased compared to the previous year when 1,064 schools achieved a perfect pass record. On the other hand, 44 schools reported a disappointing pass rate of less than 10 percent. Earlier on 2 May, GSHSEB had declared the results of Class 12 science stream results. The pass percentage for the Science stream stood at 65.58 percent which was lowest in last four years. In 2022, the overall pass percentage in the Science was 72.02 percent. Prior to that, in 2019, 2020, 2021 the pass percentage was 71.9 percent, 71.34 percent and 100 percent respectively. Recently, the board had also announced the Class 10 results were the pass percentage stood at 64.62 per cent. NEW DELHI : Domestic oil marketing companies (OMCs) surprised positively with the refining performance posted during the January-March quarter. The Benchmark Singapore GRMs (Gross refining Margins) had improved to $8.2 a barrel from $6.3 a barrel during Q3 FY23. The reported refining margins for oil marketing companies are expected to have got a further boost from rising contributions of lower priced Russian oil, said analysts. Indian Oil Corp. Ltd (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corp. Ltd (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltds (PCL) GRMs ranging at $14.1-20.6 a barrel was better than expectations. The Benchmark GRMs, however, had dropped to $3.8 a barrel during the ongoing quarter (Q1), a significant decline from the average of $8.2 a barrel during Q4. The rising covid cases in China, global recession concerns had weighed and led to this decline, said analysts. The positive, nevertheless, is that the benchmark GRMs have started to rebound again. Reuters Singapore refining margins increased 23% week-on-week to $5.1 a barrel in the week ended 21 May, from $4.2 a barrel in the previous week, suggested Nomura Research data. Analysts at Nomura attributed the rebound to an increase in spreads across products except for naphtha and LPG (liquified petroleum gas). Sharp decline in Singapore complex refining margin in Q1 of FY24 to $3.8 a barrel from $8.2 a barrel in Q4 FY23 was impacted by lower spreads across all products, except fuel-oil, Nomura analysts said. The analysts have been expecting a rebound. Jefferies India analysts in a 22 May report had said recent weakness in refining margins seemed transitory as Russian diesel exports were unexpectedly elevated despite European Union ban. However, with signs of Chinese demand recovering, diesel inventories in US and Asia at multi-year lows and US gasoline demand expected to rise to peak summer driving season, refining margins should strengthen. Although super-normal margins seen in Q4FY23 by OMCs may moderate, the refining margins will remain healthy and better than single digit averages seen earlier. We expect GRM of OMCs to sustain at a higher level on the back of Russian discounted oil share in crude basket inching up and the recent recovery in diesel/gasoline cracks while the global refining capacity addition delay will further support the GRMs" said Yogesh Patil, senior analyst at Dolat Capital. Diesel demand, along with ATF (aviation turbine fuel), remains strong due to continued geopolitical uncertainty and is likely to support the healthy refining margin outlook, said Avishek Dutta, senior analyst, Prabhudas Lilladher Pvt. Ltd. The marketing margins also remain strong for OMCs and lower crude prices are also adding to this outlook, too. The blended marketing margins increased further to 12.5 per litres in the week ended 21 May, from 12.2 a litre in the previous week, as per Nomura data. These remained sharply above the normative levels of 3 a litre. In Q1FY24, the blended margins have increased 2.8 times sequentially to 8.8 per litre, from 3.2 a litre in Q4FY23 and 12.7 a litre in Q1FY23, as product spreads have declined sharply, while retail product prices remained unchanged, as per Nomura analysts. Based on current crude and product prices, blended marketing margins are significantly above normative levels at 10.3/litre. If crude sustains at the current level, in FY24, OMCs marketing segment is expected to post EBITDA growth year-on-year and in case of correction in crude prices, OMCs are unlikely to pass on the benefits to the consumer in the near term, said Patil. However, the possibility of price cuts cannot be ruled out in second half of FY24 looking at general election in 3 major states, added Patil. Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone Ltd's auditor stated that insufficient disclosures about certain transactions mean it can only issue a qualified opinion on the company's accounts, bringing the spotlight back to allegations made by short seller Hindenburg Research about Gautam Adani's empire, stated bloomberg in its media report. According to bloomberg, Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP expressed concerns on Tuesday about the port unit's transactions with three unrelated firms. However, the auditor stated that it was unable to certify that the parties were unrelated, and that the firm has declined to obtain an independent external assessment that would help prove this. Deloitte stated that because "the evaluation performed by the group does not constitute sufficient appropriate audit evidence for the purpose of the audit," it cannot comment on whether the company was completely compliant with local regulations, according to a Bloomberg report. It's the first time a top auditor has issued a qualified opinion on a portion of the empire's accounts, citing claims from the US short seller report, which has knocked more than $100 billion off the group's market value. The action could revive fears that disclosure gaps continue in the port-to-power conglomerate's financial dealings, which could hinder its efforts to move past Hindenburg's charges of widespread corporate fraud. The Adani Group denied Hindenburg's charges. It is awaiting the results of an investigation into suspected violations by the group by India's market regulator, which must be completed by August 14 deadline. In its interim report, an expert panel formed by India's highest court this month found no evidence of regulatory failure or price manipulation in Adani Group equities. Court Probe of Adani Shortseller Saga Tests Indias Institutions. Here are the three transactions flagged by Deloitte: Adani Group signed an engineering contract with a subsidiary of a company named in the Hindenburg report and owed 37.5 billion rupees ($453 million) as of March 31. The group informed the auditor that this contractor is not a related party. There have been financial transactions, including equity trades, with the persons named in the short seller report. According to Adani Group, these are unrelated parties. All payables were settled, and there were no outstanding debts. Adani Ports sold its Myanmar port to Anguilla-based Solar Energy Ltd. earlier this month. The sale price was reduced from 20.15 billion rupees to 2.47 billion rupees, with an impairment charge imposed. The group informed the auditor that they are not related parties. Mutual Fund investors around the world are constantly seeking opportunities to maximise returns while minimizing risks. Dont put all your eggs in one basket' is perhaps the most popular adage in financial planning. Diversification is one popular investment vehicle that seeks to balance risk-return possibilities through diversification across multiple asset classes. Kotak and Baroda BNP Paribas Value Fund recently launched a new fund offer (NFO) of the scheme which will close today. Kotak FMP Series 312 Kotak FMP Series 312 is a close-ended scheme. The new fund offer (NFO) of the scheme which opened for subscription on 22 May, will close today, May 31. The minimum application amount is 5,000. The investment objective of the scheme is to generate income by investing in debt and money market securities, maturing on or before the maturity of the scheme. Fund Type Close Ended Fund Class Income Opens on 22-May-23 Closes on 31-May-23 Investment Objective To generate income by investing in debt and money market securities, maturing on or before the maturity of the scheme. There is no assurance that the investment objective of the Scheme will be achieved. Minimum Investment 5000 Fund Manager: Deepak Agrawal, Manu Sharma Baroda BNP Paribas Value Fund - Regular Plan Baroda BNP Paribas Value Fund - Regular Plan is an open-ended scheme. The new fund offer (NFO) of the scheme which opened for subscription on 17 May, will close today, May 31. The minimum application amount is 5,000. The investment objective of this scheme is to generate long-term capital appreciation from a diversified portfolio of predominantly equity and equity-related instruments by following a value investment strategy. Fund Type Open Ended Fund Class Equity: Value Oriented Opens on 17-May-23 Closes on 31-May-23 Investment Objective To generate long-term capital appreciation from a diversified portfolio of predominantly equity and equity-related instruments by following a value investment strategy. Minimum Investment 5000 Fund Manager Shiv Chanani Ramu was engrossed in a Netflix show, sprawled on his couch, when an unexpected interruption shattered the tranquillity. The phone rang and jolted him out of his leisurely state. What awaited him on the other end of the line was a message he had never expected. This is Santosh Uncle," a sombre voice conveyed, immediately capturing Ramus attention. I received news that your parents were involved in an accident, and they have been admitted to a nearby hospital. I will come to pick you up. We have to go there immediately." On arriving at the hospital, Ramus worst fears came true before his eyes. The doctor in charge delivered the devastating news: his parents had tragically succumbed to excessive bleeding in the emergency room. The suddenness of the event left him numb, unable to fathom the unforeseen and heart-wrenching loss. A month later, after traditional rituals were carried out, it was time for him to come back to senses to sort out the familys finances. As the elder brother, he had the added responsibility of finding out about all the assets owned by his family and figuring out a way to divide them fairly among his siblings. Realizing that his parents had not left behind a Will, Ramu was at his wits end. Santosh, a lawyer by profession, came to his rescue and guide him through the inheritance process. However, everyone does not have an uncle who could offer the right advice. Note, a Will is a written document that allows individuals to specify how their inheritance will be divided after their demise. It can also be in the form of a video recording. Without a proper will, sorting money matters would not be a cakewalk for anyone. Finding assets Ramu did not have much idea about his parents wealth nor was money part of their dinner conversation. Somehow, Ramu knew that his dad had an account with State Bank of India SBI and HDFC Bank, while his mom just had one SBI account. So, he went to the respective SBI and HDFC Bank branches, only to realize that he was a nominee in each of those accounts, and tried to initiate the process of gaining operational rights. Ramu called up his uncle, who told him that as a nominee, he may have access to his parents account but it doesnt mean he can inherit those assets. View Full Image mint A nominee is like a custodian till the court orders you how to divide those assets. It is the duty of the nominee to split the sum according to law. If the nominee tries to run away with the money, the court can direct him to bring back the money." Santosh also recalled that his brother had bought some shares of Reliance when he started his job. That would be a fortune in todays time. Sadly, Ramu couldnt find those share certificates at home. He also couldnt ascertain what all assets his parents owned apart from those he already knew or whose documents were there at his disposal. Santosh said it is always advisable to create a well-drafted Will with the help of a lawyer to ensure all details about the assets are well documented. Transferring assets After finding the documents related to the assets of his parents, Ramu had to initiate the process of transferring them to his and his brothers names. His uncle said that in absence of a Will, the bank balances and properties are divided as per the personal law. Since your family follows Hinduism, your assets will be divided according to Hindu succession law. That means you will get an equal share of the assets." Santosh then advised the brothers to get a succession certificate from a court before transferring the properties in their names. Good news is that nobody is contesting, so in 3-5 months you will get a succession certificate which you can then show to transfer legally. Ive had clients who have not gotten possession of the parents property since the 1990s. You know how Indian courts work, right?" Santosh quipped. On enquiring about the charges, Santosh said: It depends. Every state has different charges and since your Uncle works in Karnataka, I will have to check with a friend to arrive at the exact amount. Apart from that, we would also need a lawyer for our case." On a visit a few months later, Santosh told Ramu that if his parents had prepared a Will, the process would have been simpler as the Will just had to be executed. This is true for all states barring former Presidency Towns such as Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata where one may still need to get a court order for the asset transfer. (This is a hypothetical story) In the era of social media, a new trend has emerged among the current generation - bed rotting. With videos showcasing this activity amassing millions of views, 'bed rotting' has become a popular trend, particularly on platforms like TikTok. According to the New York Post, the hashtag #bedrot has received a staggering 305 million views on TikTok alone. The trend has gained traction as advocates claim that 'bed rotting' is a way to prioritize both physical and mental well-being through the practice of self-care. What is Bed Rotting? 'Bed Rotting' is a phenomenon where people deliberately spend prolonged periods in bed, often spanning several days or even weeks. Participants actively document their experiences through social media platforms, sharing updates, photos, and videos of their time spent indulging in this trend. Its origin One of the earliest instances of the term 'bed rotting' was coined by US-based TikTok user @g0bra77y, whose video on the subject has garnered 1.4 million views. In the clip, she humorously questions who actually enjoys "rotting away" in their bed while expressing her own affinity for the activity. While the exact origins of 'Bed Rotting' remain unclear, it gained momentum through the influence of social media influencers and content creators who shared their own experiences. This led to a rapid spread of the trend, captivating a wide audience and inspiring others to join in. The allure and appeal The allure of 'Bed Rotting' lies in its novelty and the escapism it offers. This trend provides participants with an opportunity to disconnect from their daily routines and enjoy a period of rest and relaxation. It fosters a sense of community, as participants engage with others who share their experiences, providing support and a sense of camaraderie. Health considerations While 'Bed Rotting' may appear fun and carefree, it is important to consider the potential health implications. Prolonged inactivity and excessive bed rest can lead to muscle stiffness, compromised cardiovascular health, and disrupted sleep patterns. Maintaining a balance between rest and physical activity is crucial for overall well-being. Controversies Proponents of the #bedrot trend often refer to it as a hobby, passion, willpower booster, or a way to connect with like-minded individuals. Some argue that it promotes laziness and unhealthy habits, while others express concerns about the mental and physical toll it may take on participants. It is vital to approach this trend with caution and prioritize personal health and well-being. The future of 'Bed Rotting': The longevity of the 'Bed Rotting' trend remains uncertain, as new trends continuously emerge. However, the underlying desire for rest and escape from daily pressures is likely to persist in various forms. 'Bed Rotting' serves as a reminder of the importance of relaxation and the influential role of online communities in shaping contemporary trends. Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said that BJP can be defeated in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections 2024 only if the Opposition is aligned properly". He also expressed that the grand old party is currently working towards bringing the whole of the Opposition together and it is "coming along very nicely". However, he added that uniting the opposition is not enough but we need an alternative vision to BJP. As a political entrepreneur, I can clearly see vulnerabilities in the BJP... The BJP can be defeated if the Opposition is aligned properly," he said. If you look at the Karnataka elections, the general sense is that the Congress Party fought the BJP and defeated the BJP. But what is not well understood is the mechanics that we used," he said. Rahul Gandhi said this while responding to a question at an event at the Silicon Valley Campus of the University of California in Santa Cruz on Tuesday. Speaking about the victory in the recent elections, Gandhi said, The Congress party used a completely different approach to fighting an election and building a narrative. The elements of what happened in Karnataka came out of the Bharat Jodo Yatra." In the May 10 elections to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly, the Congress won 135 seats, while incumbent BJP and the former prime minister H D Deve Gowda-led Janata Dal (Secular) got 66 and 19, respectively. Country needs an alternative vision to BJP: Rahul Gandhi He said the country needed an alternative vision to defeat the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in addition to having a united Opposition in the 2024 general elections. On the matter of opposition unity, we are working towards it and it is coming along very nicely. But I think in order to defeat the BJP, you need more than just opposition unity. Just opposition unity, in my opinion, is not going to be enough to do the job. I think you need an alternative vision to the BJP," he said. Part of Bharat Jodo Yatra was the first step in proposing such a vision. It's the vision that all opposition parties are aligned with. No opposition party would disagree with the idea of the Bharat Jodo Yatra," he said. Gandhi-led mass movement Bharat Jodo Yatra, which commenced on September 7 from Kanyakumari, covered 12 states before concluding in Jammu and Kashmir on January 31. During the course of the yatra, Gandhi, 52, addressed 12 public meetings, over 100 corner meetings and 13 press conferences. He had over 275 planned walking interactions and more than 100 sitting interactions. "So, I think bringing the opposition together is important, but also aligning the opposition and making the people of India understand that there is not just a group of opposition parties that have combined but a proposed way forward for the country. And we're working on those things," Gandhi said. (With inputs from agencies) Delhi vs Centre ordinance row: In a bid to seek support against the centre's ordinance on control over administrative services in Delhi, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will meet chief ministers of Tamil Nadu and Jharkhand, MK Stalin and Hemant Soren on June 1 and 2. CM Kejriwal made the announcement on Wednesday on Twitter. On May 23, Arvind Kejriwal began his nationwide tour to seek support from the Opposition parties against the ordinance. Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (1st June) to seek DMK's support against Centre's unconstitutional-undemocratic 'Anti-Delhi' Ordinance. Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) May 31, 2023 Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (1st June) to seek DMK's support against Centre's unconstitutional-undemocratic 'Anti-Delhi' Ordinance," said the Delhi CM on Wednesdy on Twitter. He also added that he will meet the Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren in Ranchi on June 2. He will meet the two counterparts against the ordinance passed by the Modi government. "On June 2, I will meet the Chief Minister of Jharkhand Mr @HemantSorenJMM ji in Ranchi. Will seek their support against the ordinance passed by the Modi government against the people of Delhi," he added in a subsequent tweet. To unite opposition in his favour in the ongoing ordinance row, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief has so far met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, former Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray,Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav. The Union government on May 19 brought an ordinance to notify rules for the government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD). The ordinance gave centre the power to 'transfer posting, vigilance and other incidental matters'. The central government is aiming to amend the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act, 1991. The ordinance is an attempt to circumvent the Supreme Court's judgement in the Centre vs Delhi case. (With inputs from ANI) In the past two months, as many as 40 medical colleges across the country have lost recognition allegedly for not following standards set by the National Medical Commission (NMC). According to a report by the ANI news agency, about 100 more medical colleges may face similar actions. The agency citing sources said the colleges that may lose recognition are located in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Assam, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry, and West Bengal. Several medical colleges in the country were not found to be complying with the set norms, the agency wrote. NMC found lapses related to Aadhaar-linked biometric attendance procedures, CCTV cameras, and faculty rolls during the inspection. According to the government data, medical colleges in the country are prolific. Minister of State for Health Bharati Pravin Pawar in Rajya Sabha said that there is an increase of 69% in the medical colleges from 387 before 2014 to 654 as of now. Further, there's also a surge in MBBS seats- from 51,348 before 2014 to 99,763. Their MBBS seats have increased by a whopping 94% in the past decade. Further an increase of 107% in PG seats from 31,185 before 2014 to 64,559 as of now. The MoS Health said in Parliament that the government opened more medical colleges and increased medical seats in a bid to tackle the issue of the shortage of doctors in the country, thus improving the medical system. As per the Centre's initiatives to increase the medical seats schemes were launched for the establishment of new medical colleges by upgrading district/ referral hospitals, under which 94 new medical colleges are already functional out of the 157 approved. Reacting to the derecognition of medical colleges, experts from the medical field said the NMC is largely relying on the Aadhaar-enabled biometric attendance system for which it considers only the faculty who are on duty during the daytime from 8 am to 2 pm. Another expert said, "The NMC is derecognising medical colleges believing there are deficiencies. At the same time, it has also allowed the registration of students in such colleges, which is a contradiction. Moreover, such an experiment is tarnishing the country's image at the global level because India is the largest supplier of doctors and with such instances coming to light, the world will lose confidence in Indian doctors." Heavy security was deployed near India Gate in the national capital on Wednesday ahead of a hunger strike called by the protesting wrestlers against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh who is facing sexual harassment charges. After being evicted from Janta Mantar on May 28, the top wrestlers said they will continue their protest and go on a hunger strike until death at India Gate. However, Delhi Police assured that the wrestlers will not be allowed to protest at India Gate as it is a national monument, not a site for demonstrations'. #WATCH | Heavy security deployed near India Gate area. Rapid Action Force and Delhi Police along with Riot Control Vehicle present at the spot. pic.twitter.com/6kCDOTCAYI ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 The wrestlers on Tuesday reached Haridwar in an attempt to immerse their medals in the river Ganga as a mark of protest. But, soon farmer leader Naresh Tikait appeared on the scene and requested the wrestlers to not immerse the medals. While taking away the medals from the wrestlers, Naresh Tikait sought a five-day time from the protesting wrestlers. Reacting to wrestlers' protest in Haridwar, the WFI chief said that instead of immersing their medals in the Ganga river, the wrestlers chose to give it to Naresh Tikait. He added that he cannot do anything in the matter and the Delhi Police is conducting the probe, in case anybody is found wrong, arrests will also take place. On Sunday, Delhi Police clamped down the protests while it was en route to the location of the inauguration of the new Parliament building. Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia along with Vinesh Phogat and Sangeeta Phogat were even detained by cops. Meanwhile, a person named Amit Pehlwan, who claims to be the uncle of a minor girl who has accused Brij Bhushan of sexual harassment said that the protesting wrestlers are "misleading" his family and using them to frame Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The international governing body for wrestlers, United World Wrestling (UWW) condemned the Delhi Police action against the wrestlers and threatened that it might suspend the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) if its pending elections are not held within the stipulated time. "If you believed in anger, hatred and arrogance, you would be sitting in a BJP meeting and I would be doing Mann Ki Baat," Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said while addressing Indian diaspora in San Fransisco. So thank you very much for holding up the Indian flag in America. Showing the American people what it means to be American, respecting them, learning from them and also letting them learn from you." Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said that he had to launch 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' because all instruments of doing politics (connecting with people) were "being controlled" and the "whole India" walked with him during the mega foot march. Speaking about his Bharat Jodo Yatra, the senior Congress said, We found that when everyone started working together, a completely different type of energy started coming," he said, adding, The government tried everything it could do to stop the (Bharat Jodo) Yatra, but its impact kept on increasing." VIDEO | "The government tried everything it could do to stop the (Bharat Jodo) Yatra, but its impact kept on increasing," says Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in his address at University of California, Santa Cruz. (Source: Indian National Congress) pic.twitter.com/froRoPbs2q Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 31, 2023 Meanwhile, responding to a question from 'Bay Area Muslim community' he said," The way you (Muslims) are feeling attacked, I can guarantee Sikhs, Christians, Dalits, Tribals are feeling the same. What is happening to Muslims in India today happened to Dalits in 1980s" #WATCH| Congress' Rahul Gandhi in response to a question from 'Bay Area Muslim community' says," The way you (Muslims) are feeling attacked,I can guarantee Sikhs,Christians,Dalits,Tribals are feeling the same. What is happening to Muslims in India today happened to Dalits in pic.twitter.com/sukYLT9Ctp ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 Rahul Gandhi is on a 10-day visit to the United States. He is set to cover three cities-- San Francisco, Washington DC, and New York during the tour. Currently, he is in San Francisco, where he will hold a talk at the Stanford Graduate School of Business on Tuesday. He will also interact with senior technology executives from Silicon Valley on artificial intelligence. Later in the evening, he would be meeting with the Indian diaspora in San Francisco. During Rahul Gandhi's visit to Washington DC from June 1-2, he will address the National Press Club, focusing on topics such as the future of Indian democracy, freedom of speech, and sustainable and inclusive economic growth. He has also planned meetings with lawmakers and think tanks to engage in discussions and exchange ideas. Furthermore, he will attend a dinner hosted by Indian-American entrepreneur Frank Islam, alongside top business leaders, Senators, and Congressmen. In New York on June 3-4, Rahul Gandhi will engage with thinkers at the Harvard Club, attend a lunch event, meet accomplished Indian-Americans in the creative industry, and address a public gathering at the Javits Center. Last week, Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda said Gandhi's visit is aimed at promoting shared values and a vision of real democracy". "The purpose of his (Gandhis) trip is to connect, interact and begin a new conversation with various individuals, institutions and media, including the Indian diaspora that is growing in numbers in the United States and abroad to promote the shared values and vision of the real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over," Pitroda said in a statement. Gandhi received a new ordinary passport on Sunday, two days after a Delhi court gave its clearance. This comes soon after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's three-nation- Japan, Papua New Guinea, and Australia- concluded. (With inputs from agencies) New Delhi: The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a scheme worth 1 trillion to increase foodgrain storage capacity by 700 lakh tonne in the cooperative sector, according to a PTI report. The plan aims to converge various schemes of the ministry of agriculture and farmers welfare, ministry of consumer affairs, food and public distribution, and ministry of food processing industries. Union minister Anurag Singh Thakur said presently, the grain storage capacity in the country is about 1,450 lakh tonne.In the next five years, the storage will expand to 2,150 lakh tonne. The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today approved the constitution and empowerment of an Inter Ministerial Committee (IMC) for facilitation of the Worlds Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector," a PIB release said. To ensure timely and uniform implementation of the plan in a professional manner, the ministry of cooperation will initiate a pilot project in at least 10 selected districts across different states and Union Territories. The pilot project will provide valuable insights into regional requirements, which will be incorporated into the nationwide implementation of the plan. The panel, chaired by the minister of cooperation, will include the minister of agriculture and farmers welfare, minister of consumer affairs, food and public distribution, minister of food processing industries, and concerned secretaries as members. The committee will modify guidelines and implementation methodologies of the schemes of the respective ministries as needed, within the approved outlays and prescribed goals, to facilitate the Worlds Largest Grain Storage Plan in Cooperative Sector." The plan focuses on creating infrastructure such as godowns for agriculture and allied purposes at viable Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). The plan will utilize the available funds provided under identified schemes of the respective ministries. These include the agriculture infrastructure fund (AIF), agricultural marketing infrastructure scheme (AMI), mission for integrated development of horticulture (MIDH), sub mission on agricultural mechanization (SMAM) from the ministry of agriculture and farmers welfare, and the pradhan mantri formalization of micro food processing enterprises scheme (PMFME), pradhan mantri kisan sampada yojana (PMKSY) from the ministry of food processing industries. Additionally, the ministry of consumer affairs, food and public distributions allocation of food grains under the national food security act and procurement operations at minimum support price will also be part of the convergence. The plan is multifaceted, addressing the shortage of agricultural storage infrastructure by establishing godowns at the PACS level. It will enable PACS to undertake various activities, including serving as procurement centers, fair price shops, custom hiring centers, and setting up common processing units. The decentralized storage capacity at the local level will reduce food grain wastage, strengthen food security, prevent distress sale of crops, and reduce transportation costs. The implementation of the proposal will be carried out within a specified time frame. A national level coordination committee will be formed within one week of the cabinet approval, and implementation guidelines will be issued within 15 days. Additionally, a portal for the linkage of PACS with the government will be rolled out within 45 days, and the implementation of the plan will commence within the same timeframe. The ministry of cooperation aims to transform primary agricultural credit societies (PACS) into successful and vibrant business enterprises. The plans focus on agri-infrastructure, such as warehouses and processing units at the PACS level, will strengthen food security, reduce wastage, and improve farmers income. With over 1,00,000 PACS and more than 13 crore farmers as members, this initiative aims to leverage the role of PACS in transforming the agricultural and rural landscape of the Indian economy. Vistara airline will introduce a flight service between Agartala and Karnataka's capital city Bengaluru on August 1, an official said, adding that it will benefit immensely benefit flyers, according to a report published by PTI. KC Meena, Director, Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport said, Vistara is scheduled to operate a flight on the Agartala-Bengaluru route from August 1. The flight will arrive here directly from Bengaluru, and on its return journey from Agartala, it will go via Guwahati. It will benefit flyers immensely." Currently, Indigo and Akasa Airlines are operating three flights on the Agartala-Bengaluru route. Meena said SpieceJet is ready to kickstart services between Agartala and Chittagong in Bangladesh but the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is yet to notify the immigration centre. "We are hoping to get all the relevant protocols cleared from the Centre by mid-June. Once the process is complete, international flight service will start at the earliest," he told PTI. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha had urged Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia for the introduction of more flights on the route. At present, four airlines operate 34-36 flights daily from the MBB Airport, which handles around 4,500 passengers per day. Earlier this month, Vistara and Air India entered into an interline partnership that enables passengers to travel between the two airlines networks seamlessly. Under this partnership, passengers are now able to receive their boarding passes at the first point of departure for all the travel sectors on a single ticket, and have their baggage checked in through to their final destinations. Bhartiya Kisan Union leader Naresh Tikait on Wednesday, announced to organise a maha panchayat in Muzaffarnagar's Soram village on Thursday. The maha panchayat will be organised to discuss the ongoing protest by wrestlers against the WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh over sexual harassment charges. The head of the Balyan Khap, on Tuesday, stopped India's top wrestlers from immersing their medals in the Ganga river in Haridwar and sought five days from award-winning grapplers. Later, he said that the matter will be discussed in detail in the maha panchayat on Tuesday. Olympic medallists Sakshi Malik, Bajrang Punia, and Asian Games gold medallist Vinesh Phogat went to Har ki Pauri on Tuesday to protest the inaction against the Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Singh. The BJP MP is facing charges of sexual harassment cases of several women grapplers. After meeting the protesting wrestlers in Uttarakhand, the farmer leader and other khap and other political leaders were able to convince the protesters after spending an hour and forty-five minutes. Tikait said several representatives of different khaps and their heads coming from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Delhi will participate in the maha panchayat to decide the next course of action in the wrestlers' protest. On the day of the inauguration of the new parliament building, these top grapplers were dragged to different sites and detained for hours by the Delhi police. The Delhi police detained these protesters at different sites and removed the trampolins, mats, and other belongings of protesting farmers from Jantar Mantar. Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda will embark on his four-day visit to India today, Wednesday, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. This will be Prachandas first bilateral visit abroad since he took office in December 2022. He will visit India from May 31-June 3 at the invitation of his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Nepalese PM will also call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The Nepalese PM has a raft of meetings lined up on Wednesday, topping which is one with PM Modi at 11 am at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, as per ANI reports. He will also preside over the exchange of agreements between the two nations and release press statements at the same venue at around noon. At 4 in the evening, the Nepalese PM will call on Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar at the latter's official residence at Maulana Azad Road. Thereafter, Dahal will call on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Apart from his official engagements, on the second day of his visit, Dahal will emplane to attend a program in Indore. He is also likely to visit Ujjain and will depart for Kathmandu on June 3, Saturday at 4.20 pm, ANI reported. During his visit, a high-level delegation will accompany Nepal PM Dahal, who will hold extensive talks with PM Modi on the bilateral partnership between India and Nepal, the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official statement. Several other Indian dignitaries will call on the Nepalese Prime Minister as well. The visit continues the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between India and Nepal in furtherance of the 'Neighbourhood First' policy. The bilateral relations between the two countries have significantly strengthened in the last few years in all areas of cooperation. This visit demonstrates the importance that both sides place on accelerating the bilateral partnership between the two nations. (With ANI inputs) North Korea early Wednesday morning fired what it called a space satellite toward the south, South Korean military said prompting emergency alerts and evacuation warnings in parts of South Korea and Japan. Sirens were heard across Seoul around 6:32 a.m. (2132 GMT Tuesday) as the city issued a warning asking citizens to prepare for potential evacuation, news agency Reuters report. The Fumio Kishida government in Japan activated its missile alert warning system for the southern region of Okinawa, saying a missile had been launched from North Korea. "Missile launch. Missile launch. North Korea appears to have launched a missile. Please take shelters inside buildings or underground," said the alert tweeted by the prime minister's office and carried on national broadcaster NHK. North Korea has said it will launch its first military reconnaissance satellite between May 31 and June 11 to boost monitoring of US activities. A satellite launch by Pyongyang is a violation of UNSC resolutions that ban North Korea from using ballistic technology because it's regarded as a cover for missile tests. North Korea's attempt to launch a military spy satellite into orbit failed, but they plan to try again soon. North Korea's state media Korean Central News Agency said, a rocket launched on Wednesday crashed into the Yellow Sea after losing propulsion in the second stage of the ascent. Authorities will analyze the cause of the accident and launch another rocket soon. The flight was the nuclear-armed state's sixth satellite launch attempt, and the first since 2016. It was supposed to put North Korea's first spy satellite in orbit. Kim Jong Un's announcement of launching a reconnaissance satellite sparked concerns from Japan and South Korea, as it would violate UN resolutions. Both countries urged North Korea to abandon the plan, emphasizing that any ballistic missile technology usage would be considered a breach. South Korea's military informed on Wednesday, The rocket launched by North Korea had an "abnormal flight," suggesting the launch may have failed. The rocket landed in waters off the Korean Peninsula's west coast, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said adding, South Korean and US authorities were analyzing the launch further." Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters that there were no reports of damage so far. Japan on Wednesday issued a missile alert for the southern prefecture of Okinawa, which it later lifted. (With inputs from agencies) The Russian airline Red Wings, which is to fulfill flights to and from Georgia, has added occupied Abkhazia to the list of countries. Georgia has not yet been added to the website. Red Wings will start flights from June 2, in the direction of Sochi-Tbilisi and Moscow-Kutaisi. Red Wings is the second Russian airline after 'Azimut' that will start flights to Georgia. It is a subsidiary of the Russian state corporation 'Ros Tech', which is sanctioned by the United States of America. The company Azimut also indicated the occupied Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions as independent states in the countries column of the registration graph. Later, the self-proclaimed republics were removed from the list of countries.Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee of the Lithuanian Parliament, Zygimantas Pavilionis, reacts to the speech of Irakli Gharibashvili in Bratislava, where Gharibashvili said that "one of the reasons for Russia's invasion of Ukraine was the expansion of NATO.""Correction - NATO's non-expansion provoked the war," Pavilionis wrote.'NATO expansion' is cited as a pretext for the invasion of Ukraine in Russia as well. Before the start of the war, President Vladimir Putin and other government officials repeatedly reiterated that Kyiv's desire to become a member of NATO was a concern, however, before the start of the war, this issue was not on the agenda.After the large-scale invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv applied for NATO membership. Indias financial technology, or fintech, sector is experiencing rapid evolution but it exemplifies the nations striking contrasts. While we boast one of the highest number of bank accounts globally, the average balance per account remains notably low. Our banking system is immense, comprising 137 banks, 120,000 branches, with deposits totalling $1.35 trillion and outstanding credit of $900 billion, and its growing at a remarkable pace with the sector doubling in size every five to six years. However, when it comes to per capita metrics, we still reflect the developing nature of our economy. A noteworthy divide is evident in the contribution to total deposits, with rural India, which represents more than 60% of the population, contributing less than 10% of the deposits, while urban India, comprising only around 12% of the population, contributing 50-60% of the deposits. Additionally, women own a mere 20% of the total deposits. Despite these challenges, Indian financial institutions stand out as some of the best-run businesses globally. They have relatively low non-performing assets (NPAs), comprising 3-5% of total assets, high capitalization at 18% CAR (Capital Adequacy Ratio), and impressive return ratios, with return on equity (RoE) of about 15%. Foundational infrastructure and emerging opportunities Indias financial landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, boasting world-class infrastructure, well-regulated bodies, and a robust capital market framework. Key initiatives such as Jan Dhan, Aadhar, and UPI have been transformative, while ongoing innovations like differentiated banking/insurance licences, Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), Account Aggregator, the Open Credit Enablement Network (OCEN), Digilocker, and the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) continue to drive progress. With a strong foundation and Indias trajectory towards becoming a $5 trillion economy, the financial services sector presents immense opportunities for value creation. The fintech ecosystem is also seeing vibrant innovation. Indias financial services and fintech industry is poised to generate more value in the next decade than in the previous 70 years combined. We envision the financial services market cap, currently standing at about $850 billion, to reach around $1.7 trillion by 2030. Specifically, within this market, fintech is projected to contribute an additional $300 billion in market cap, surging from around $85 billion to nearly $400 billion during this period. India is undeniably at a turning point, where value creation will compound and propel significant growth. In the rapidly evolving fintech space of India, three significant opportunity vectors have emerged. The first is access, driven by Indias unique demographics, growing affluence, and relatively low financial penetration. This presents a remarkable opportunity for new-age players to out-innovate incumbents and collaborate with them to unlock substantial value. Exciting business models addressing access include full stack/manufacturing plays (e.g, Acko, Axio, Uni, OneCard), new-to-credit lending (Aye Finance, Five Star, Aptus, Sarvagram), segment-specific financial solutions (Fampay, Jodo, GrayQuest, Niyo, Skydo) and embedded financial services (seamless in-platform payments, credit at the point of purchase, and tailored insurance products, such as Miniti and Progcap). The second opportunity vector is efficiency, fuelled by Indias globally competent product and tech talent, combined with world-class financial infrastructure. This convergence drives businesses that focus on building CFO tools which streamline processes and platformise B2B payments and credit (for instance, Clear, Cashflo and Credable); building bridges between fintechs and financial institutions (e.g., M2P, Setu) or provide technology solutions to the financial services industry across identity (e.g., Hyperverge), credit assessment (e.g., Perfios), credit monitoring and collections (e.g., Credgenics) etc. The third vector is centred around providing delightful experiences to Indian consumers, as their demands for superior customer experiences continue to grow. Fintech models can differentiate themselves across offerings such as seamless advisory and investing catering to the evolving middle class and democratizing access to financial products (e.g, Dezerv, Strata, Wint); targeting evolved user segments, such as active traders, GenZ investors, and those interested in social investing. Additionally, digitizing small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) by empowering them with digital solutions for core business functions, while offering commerce, payments, and credit opportunities, is a large opportunity (e.g, Khatabook, OkCredit, and Flobiz). Overall, these three opportunity vectors - access, efficiency, and experience - are reshaping the fintech landscape in India, creating a fertile ground for innovation, value creation, and customer delight. Conclusion Indias fintech sector is on the cusp of a remarkable growth trajectory, fuelled by Indias distinct demographics, robust financial infrastructure, and vast market potential. The convergence of opportunities in addressing access, efficiency, and experience sets the stage for the development of groundbreaking and customer-centric financial solutions that can generate substantial value for all involved. Mridul Arora is Partner at Elevation Capital. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed a rally in Rajasthan's Ajmer, where he said that said that the guarantee habit of Congress is not new. PM Modi accused Congress of conducting biggest treachery by misleading poor. The Prime Minister's jibe at the Grand old party comes ahead of Rajasthan Assembly Polls expected to be held at the end of 2023. "50 years back, Congress gave the 'garibi hatao' guarantee to the country. This is Congress party's biggest treachery with the poor. Congress' strategy has been to trick the poor. People of Rajasthan have suffered due to this," said PM Modi in Ajmer, Rajasthan. At the rally, PM Modi said, Congress has always deceived this land of the brave and the Bravehearts here. For 4 decades, Congress continued betraying the ex-servicemen in the name of One Rank One Pension (OROP)...BJP Govt not only implemented OROP but also provided arrears to the ex-servicemen". Achievements of India, success of the people of India is not digestible to a few people. India got a new Parliament building. Are you not proud of the new Parliament?... But Congress & some other parties like it threw mud of politics at it...They are angry that how is the son of a poor standing before their ego? They are angry that the why is son of the poor not allowing their arbitrariness? They are angry that why is son of the poor questioning their corruption & dynasty?...", the PM further said. The Prime Minister has visited Rajasthan, offered prayers at the famous Brahma temple at Pushkar in Rajasthan's Ajmer district. #WATCH | PM Modi says, "A lot of people ask these days - from where does Modi get the money for the development works that are going on in the country...There was never any shortage of money in the country for development works...But during its rule, Congress Govt developed a pic.twitter.com/e4aFiL30Jq ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 At the Ajmer rally, PM Modi said, Nine years of Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) government were dedicated to service of people of country, good governance, welfare of poor." Modi said that before 2014, people were on the streets against corruption and terror attacks rocked major cities while the Congress ran the government by remote control. During its rule, the Congress developed a corrupt system that "sucked the blood of the country" and hindered development, he said. Now, the prime minister said, people across the world are talking about India, and experts are saying India is very close to ending extreme poverty. Before 2014, people were on streets against corruption, terror attacks rocked major cities and Congress ran government by remote control" the PM added. The Ajmer Rally was organised to mark the completion of nine years of the Modi government across its two terms. The prime minister will later travel to Kayad Vishram Sthali on Jaipur Road in a helicopter for a public rally. Union ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal and Kailash Chaudhary, and other BJP leaders from Rajasthan are expected to attend the rally. Elaborate security arrangements were put in place for Modi's visit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit and rallies in Rajasthan seems like the beginning of elections campaign at the northwestern state, where state assmebly elections will be held either at the end of 2023, or early 2024. In Rajasthan the BJP, will attempt to usurp the incumbent Congress government helmed by chief minister Ashok Gehlot. Notably, the Congress had faced rebellion within the party when in 2020 then deputy CM Sachin Pilot and 18 other MLAs protested against the functioning of CM Gehlot. Couple of days ago, after a meet with the Congress High Command Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, Congress national Secretary KC Venugopal announced that Sachin Pilot and Ashok Gehlot had agreed to unitedly contest the upcoming Rajasthan Assembly Elections. Last week, Microsoft lodged an appeal against the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) ruling that blocked its $69 billion agreement with Activision Blizzard, the creator of Call of Duty. Microsoft has subsequently submitted a summarized argument to the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT), contesting the CMA's evaluation of the merger. Microsoft has presented its case against the CMA's analysis, claiming that it contains significant mistakes. The company intends to bring in four expert witnesses to support its request for a judicial review. In a report by The Verge, Microsoft highlighted the CMA's alleged oversight in assessing the potential for transitioning between cloud gaming and native gaming, as well as their incorrect definition of the cloud gaming market. The technology giant has outlined five points of appeal and claims that the CMA has committed four errors in its conclusions regarding Microsoft's restriction of rival access to Activision games. The company further accuses the UK's antitrust regulator of being an international "exception" for its decision to block the merger. The hearing for the Microsoft Activision Blizzard acquisition case is scheduled to take place between July 24 and July 31. Microsoft has requested a four-day hearing, preferably starting from July 17. The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will begin an evidentiary hearing on August 2. New Zealand's deadline for making a decision on the matter is set for June 9. Those who do not know, South Korea has joined the growing list of countries approving the Microsoft Activision deal. The country's Fair Trade Commission has granted its approval, marking the 38th nation to endorse the merger. Additionally, China had previously given its approval on May 22. Advertising Feature: This article is from a special section that was not produced by the newsroom. Abigail Kampmann, founder and chief executive officer of the Principle Auto Group, gave up her legal career 21 years ago to focus on working in the automotive industry in San Antonio, and she said that since then, she has never regretted that decision. As for what it was like transitioning from being a lawyer to getting into auto dealership management, Kampmann said, What I do now is actually a lot more challenging. I decided to close my law practice, and went to auto school through a yearlong NADA (National Automobile Dealers Association) program in 2006. Then I literally started taking on a larger role in our company she said. In January 2009, I started in my first general manager job. Fast-forward to 2014, when she started Principle Auto Group, which now operates in Texas, Tennessee and Mississippi. It has BMW, MINI, Volvo, Hyundai, Infiniti, Volkswagen, and Toyota franchises. Its amazing how many opportunities there are to grow, Kampmann said. I love this industry, as it gives me the opportunity to reach my goals. Here are her some of her views on what it has been like to have a career in the automotive industry in San Antonio: Q.: What is your current role in the auto industry? A.: I am the CEO of Principle Auto Group. Principle Auto Group operates in Texas, Tennessee and Mississippi with the following dealerships: Principle BMW & MINI of San Antonio, Principle Volvo Cars San Antonio, Principle Hyundai Boerne, Principle Infiniti of Boerne, Principle Volkswagen Grapevine, Principle BMW of Corpus Christi, Principle Toyota of Hernando, and Principle Toyota in Memphis. Q.: How long have you been working in the industry? A.: 21 years Q.: Why did you choose the auto industry? A.: After practicing law for 10 years and being a partner at Cox & Smith for the last four years, I was asked by County Judge Nelson Wolff to run for the open probate judge position in Bexar County. After my husband said no to this elected job opportunity, my dad offered me an office and a secretary in his management space near the Quarry in exchange for some work in the auto industry so I left my law firm and started my own law office. Q.: How did you get your first job in the industry? A.: In 2002, my dad, who operated auto dealerships in two states, offered me an office and a secretary in return for doing some work in retail automotive. I started doing audits for his dealerships, where I learned about compliance, safety, hiring and HR policies. Q.: Is your current job your first in the industry, or have you had other roles? A.: No. Previously, I have been vice president in charge of compliance audits, HR, websites, customer relations management software, and marketing. I have also held the role of service manager and general manager for five years. Q.: Whats your overall view so far of working in the auto industry? Is it what you imagined it to be? A.: This industry provides great opportunities and careers for people. Having worked as an attorney for 13 years before this field, I had no idea that the auto industry could provide so many opportunities for individuals to develop both personally and professionally. Our associates can make a good living, allowing each person to provide for their family and others less fortunate in society. Q.: What is the most-memorable moment you can recall from your time working in the auto industry? A.: When one of our customers asked us to host her husbands surprise birthday party at our dealership. His health was failing, and he loved our associate team. It was a great event and all the guests had fun. Q.: Who has had the most influence on you as you developed your career in the automotive industry, and why? A.: My father, Jack Guenther. He founded our car business in 1965. He stressed that education, work ethic and treating people with respect were key factors in getting the best of myself. He taught me that hiring and building a team is a quality every successful leader must have. I have never stopped learning from his wisdom. Q.: What is your typical day like at work? A.: My days vary, but every month I have the following meetings: 1. Business review of operations of each dealership; 2. HR hiring and development review for each dealership; 3. Meeting to review goals and provide guidance with each of my direct reports as follows: HR, IT, Compliance, Legal, Variable Operations and Marketing and Financial. I also teach several classes to our associates as part of our Principle University curriculum. Every month I have meetings via my service on the Volvo Retailer Advisory Board, the San Antonio Automotive Association Board, the United Way of Bexar County Campaign Cabinet, the Alamo Trust, the Texas Biomedical Research Institute Board and Executive Committee, YPO San Antonio Gold Board, and two private foundation boards. I spend time celebrating our Principle Auto Group annual teacher and nurse of the year awards in the communities we serve, and I plan and attend our associate awards celebrations and technician appreciation events at each of our stores. Every month, I work on my sustainability measures and expansion of our facilities, and I look at new franchise opportunities when they arise. Q.: Have you experienced any particular challenges as a woman working in a generally male-dominated industry? A.: There have been many challenges and barriers I have faced. Persistence and determination have catapulted me to being an excellent leader and mentor. Q.: What advice to you have for other women who might be contemplating careers in the auto industry? A.: Hard work pays off in this industry. Excel in sales consultant or assistant sales manager positions, and you will be promoted. Be sure to meet weekly with your boss so you understand the goals of your position, and get help when needed. Q.: Would you recommend a position like yours to other women, or what positions might you suggest? A.: If you enjoy working with people, this is a great industry, and you will never be bored. Start as a sales consultant or an assistant sales manager. If there are no openings there, start as a valet, a detailer, or a receptionist. If you enjoy mechanical work and love cars, apply for a technician role. If you enjoy accounting or back-office work, we have openings today. Excel in any of these roles for a couple of years and you will get a promotion when available. Q.: Do you have any other comments you wish to add to your story? A.: I formed Principle Auto Group in 2014 with the following simple goals: Leonardo Silveira/Getty Images/iStockphoto Who's guilty Texans? A TikToker has reached a viral status for calling out residents in Texas for using the wrong flag emoji. TikToker Ivan expressed with passion an important public service announcement that some Texans are using the flag of Chile emoji instead of the one for the Lone Star State. OK, the flags do look similar. The Chilean national flag features a horizontal white stripe over a red stripe and a dark blue canton with a large white star in the upper hoist corner. Sound familiar? The Texas flag has an equally-sized red bar beneath the white one, however, the blue frame on the side runs the height of the flag. Courtesy/Webb County Sheriff's Office A suspected narcotics dealer with about 10 years of experience was arrested following a raid near downtown Laredo, according to an arrest affidavit. Jose Pedro Garcia was arrested on the charges of possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, crack cocaine and methamphetamine. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate The Laredo Independent School District and United Independent School District have launched the Summer Meals program for children 18 and under in an effort to alleviate food concerns for those from low-income families in the City of Laredo and Webb County. The program is also available for children with disabilities up to age 21 who are enrolled in the districts. The program is sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture and the Texas Department of Agriculture and is intended to meet the nutritional needs of minors in areas where at least 50% of children are eligible for free and reduced price lunch. The program is open to any minor with no registration or ID required. They also do not need to be either from LISD or UISD, and the meals must be consumed on site. LISD is offering its program at 69 available sites while UISD has 39 sites that include schools, churches, parks and recreation centers, among others. LISD Laredo ISD Child Nutrition Program hosted a kickoff event for the Summer Meals Program on May 23 at J.C. Martin Jr., Elementary School, but the official Summer Meals program started on Tuesday. Laredo ISD Child Nutrition Program Director Roberto Cuellar Jr. said that the district serves a high number of families with children who are considered low-income. "The important thing is that these children eat, and during the summer we offer this free food program for minors," he said. "I always say that hunger does not take vacations, and when the school year ends, there is a real concern for children's nutrition." Cuellar said parents could be sure that nutritious foods would be offered to children for breakfast, lunch and snacks. "I think our district and our staff are like superheroes in that aspect since our staff prepare nutritious food," he said. "We currently have 69 sites available among district schools and community sites such as water parks, churches and recreation centers." Cuellar said that 1 in 5 children in Texas suffers from hunger, so this program is very important. "That's why we have this free program, and what I like is that the food we provide is nutritious," he said. "The program will continue until July 21 from Monday to Thursday." Cuellar said that last year they made 61 sites available to minors during the months of June and July in which more than 46,000 breakfasts, 78,000 meals and 16,000 snacks were delivered. "Kids can go anywhere for food," he said. "It's very delicious and nutritious meals. Kids don't have to show identification or belong to the district. We are very motivated because we have this passion to go further and be able to offer food to more children. At LISD, we do everything with our hearts to serve our neighbors and our children who are the future of this nation." UISD UISD Child Nutrition Department Director Raul Ramirez Jr. said that the Summer Meals program began at certain locations on Tuesday and that they began at all schools on Wednesday. "City of Laredo and Webb County children need good nutrition year-round so they can learn, grow and succeed in life," said Ramirez in a statement. "With nearly 2 million food insecure children living in Texas, these healthy meals are vital to nourishing young Texans during the summer vacation." Ramirez said that last year UISD served 76,527 breakfasts and 98,633 lunches in 32 sites. "For the children who rely on school meals during the academic year, these meals offer a source of good nutrition when school is out for the long summer vacation." Like LISD, United ISD is increasing its capacity to serve meals at 39 sites this year. "Our district will be delivering meals to children at schools through June 28, but the program will then continue at recreation centers and other sites through July 28," he said. Ramirez invited the community to take advantage of this program that offers free meals to children in Laredo and Webb County. "Summer meal sites help children succeed by providing the noursihment they need to return to school in the fall ready to thrive," UISD said in a statement. For more information about where you can find a meal site, call 2-1-1 to speak to a live operator; text FOOD or COMIDA to 304-304 or call LISD offices at 956-273-1600 or UISD at 956-473-6556. AUDRA MELTON/NYT Texas Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher announced Tuesday that Harris County has secured $1.4 million in federal dollars that will be dedicated to tackling the county's Black maternal mortality and morbidity rate. The additional funds come after Harris County officials honored Black Maternal Health Week last month and stated the pressing need to address the alarming maternal death rate among Black women in the state's largest county. Black women are disproportionately impacted across the U.S. and in Harris County. A 2022 report published by Texas Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee found that medical racism, implicit bias and inadequate healthcare led to Black women being more likely to die preventable and unnecessary deaths during childbirth than their counterparts of other ethnicities. The Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorneys Office and Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced Tuesday that two men accused of murdering a man at a Rossville home last year have been convicted, and another man plead guilty. Most in US say don't ban race in college admissions but its role should be small: AP-NORC poll Four biodiversity projects in Longford have been awarded 30,000 in State funding. The announcement was made by Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan earlier today. The four local projects in Longford to receive funding are: -22,250 for The County Longford Hedgerow Project 2023 -8,500 for Plant a pot for pollinators -4,119 for the River Shannon Quagga Mussel Project -3,400 for the Conservation of Swifts in County Longford Over 2.5 million is being awarded to local authorities to carry out biodiversity projects through the Local Biodiversity Action Fund (LBAF) and 193,000 is being granted to the natural history recording community through the Small Recording Grants scheme. "Given that its Biodiversity Week, Im especially delighted to announce funding of over 2.5 million for 188 biodiversity projects," said Mr Noonan. Judge warns Longford mother who 'acted like a crazed cannibal of potential prison term A young mother who acted like a crazed cannibal in a horrific attack was told she may have a District Court prison sentence extended if a Probation Service report is not favourable. "The Local Biodiversity Action Fund is an enormously impactful scheme that supports local authorities and communities to deliver on Irelands national objectives for nature, from invasive species to habitat restoration to awareness-raising to surveys and monitoring work. Census 2022: Longford's population continues to grow older Longford's population is getting older with the number of people over the age of 65 increasing by 26 per cent, new census data has found. "As more and more Biodiversity Officers join the ranks of our local authorities, I know that the benefits for nature and people that this Fund provides are only going to grow. Local politicians and local authority chiefs will ultimately have no influence on whether a new emergency accommodation centre for international protection applicants opens in Longford town, it has emerged. The startling revelation comes following a week of mounting uncertainty over purported plans a new refugee centre was being earmarked for the county town. Local politicians held crunch, behind closed doors talks with council chiefs on Monday that concluded without resolution. We are communicating with the relevant departments and talks are ongoing in relation to this, said Longford Municipal District Cathaoirleach Cllr Gerry Hagan It's beyond the control of the councillors and Longford County Council. Local councillors had previously co signed a statement in which the six strong group expressed their grave concerns over the mooted plans. "It has been brought to our attention, that a premises has been identified in Longford Town, for the purpose of accommodating IP Applicants," read the statement. "As a collective group, we have grave concerns regarding this issue. "We are therefore seeking an urgent meeting with the Chief Executive of Longford County Council to clarify this situation." It comes following recent findings which revealed how 13 new emergency accommodation centres for international protection applicants opened since last September without any local representatives being briefed. The new data, provided by the Department of Children to the Public Accounts Committee, which has responsibility for Irelands asylum system, shows that 55 such centres were opened between September and late February as pressure on the asylum system intensified. The Leader sought a response from the Department of Children and Equality over the claims but at the time of going to press no statement either confirming or denying the proposed plans was forthcoming. The AGM of Granard Motte Community Enterprise clg was held last Tuesday in Knights and Conquests visitor Centre. A well-attended meeting heard of a very successful year for the group by Chairperson Fr Simon Cadam. He praised the work done and noted with pride the opening of the onsite cafe the Bailey Cafe. He also praised the huge community response to the Annual 500 members draw. The following were the winners of 1000 euros in the 2022/23 Draw. A. Tynan, M Smyth, F. Gray (shared), C Mc Keon, M Shaughnessy (shared), T Scanlon, F Mc Givney. This was the last 100 draw and he announced that the bank loan taken out to purchase the 15-acre site and associated buildings is almost cleared. This, he said, was a testament to the generosity of the community and the diligence and determination of the wonderful team of Directors who gave wholeheartedly and worked unreservedly to clear this debt. The meeting heard that the Knights and Conquests business continues to grow and be a source of pride for the whole community. The town is buzzing with the many successful events organised by our Manager Deirdre Orme. Deirdre outlined her plans for the Summer, being a hub for Crinnu na nOg, Normal people, and many other events. For more, see the centre's website and Facebook page for details at www.knightsandconquests.ie. The Secretary's report outlined the lack of progress on the development of the development's Heritage Park. Since 2019 when GMCE CLG announced their success in securing funding for a Norman Heritage Park in association with the highest Motte in Ireland, there have been many challenges. A once in a lifetime pandemic, lockdowns, shortages of building products, the war in Ukraine, rising costs, change of design, retirements of key personnel and tendering issues to name but a few. But our board have not given up and are working continually to achieve this project, read an excerpt from the report. We have met with disappointments, sometimes with anger and frustration, but always with a steadfast will to achieve our goal. Our partners, Longford County Council and Failte Ireland are committed to this project, but we need them to address this development with more urgency and creativity. Local representatives present on the night, councillors PJ Reilly, Turlough McGovern, Colin Dalton and Senator Micheal Carrigy pledged to keep this project at the top of the agenda. We look forward to achieving this during the next year. The board are delighted that the Motte itself is now in the public realm and look forward this year to working with their partners to develop a sustainable conservation plan for the future of the Granard Motte. This is our second goal for 2023/2024 and it too needs urgent attention as the conservation of this important historical site is paramount. The Treasurers report outlined the tight margins in the business, but the bottom line was in the black. The lack of accommodation in the region was highlighted by the centre's manager as an issue going forward for the tourism business. Ireland's Hidden Heartlands is becoming a destination of choice and our business at Knights and Conquests can only grow. Accommodation providers take note. Fr Cadam concluded the meeting by asking all to redouble their efforts to finish this notable development and add another success to Grenards admirable Booktown Festival and wonderful film Lakelands. As summertime rolls around making the most of the long evenings and good weather is at the forefront of everyone's mind. Organisers of the Clondra Harbour and Heritage Festival will be beaming at the long range weather forecast with warm weather set to continue for this year's festival. The gathering has grown from strength to strength in the last few years, evolving from a community favourite to an event that attracts people from far and wide. One of the organisers of the Clondra Festival, Niamh McPartland, says the gathering has a packed programme this year: We have activities for everyone, from young to old and everyone in between, she told the Leader. Music, activities, fun and craic are on the menu for the event. Though Richmond Harbour in Clondra is the hub for the festival there are a host of activities on Saturday and Sunday. We will have zorbing, paddle boat trips on the Canal, wellie throwing, a duck race, live music and lots more to bring the harbour to life on Saturday. The Sunday programme is just as packed and many of the events will continue with the addition of things like horse and carriage rides, the day in the bog, bog canoeing and a lorry pull with local teams, Niamh outlines. The day on the bog is one of the features of this year's festival that is sure to spark a lot of interest. Those in attendance will get the chance to try their hand at the traditional method of turf-cutting. Slanes will be provided, as well as refreshments for all Slane Cutters. There will be storytelling, arts and crafts displays along the canal, and canoe and paddle board demonstrations. To complement the days events, The Richmond Inn will be hosting local artists including Dermot Hegarty, Seamus Farrell, Pascal Flaherty, Sean Hussey, Sean Sweeney and Mick Fenlon. Niamh says there will be lots of fun events: People are looking forward to the dunk tank. This is a dunking machine where a volunteer sitting on a collapsible bench and people throw a ball to splash them into the water. We have lined up a couple of 'volunteers'. Johnny Casey, Aodh Dervin, and a couple of other surprised guests will be in the seat. We will definitely have a lady to sit in, Niamh says of the novel game. The Clondra Harbour and Heritage Festival is supported by Longford County Council and Waterways Ireland. One of the godfathers of artificial intelligence (AI) has said he feels lost as experts warned the technology could lead to the extinction of humanity. Professor Yoshua Bengio told the BBC that all companies building AI products should be registered and people working on the technology should have ethical training. It comes after dozens of experts put their name to a letter organised by the Centre for AI Safety, which warned that the technology could wipe out humanity and the risks should be treated with the same urgency as pandemics or nuclear war. Prof Bengio said: It is challenging, emotionally speaking, for people who are inside (the AI sector). You could say I feel lost. But you have to keep going and you have to engage, discuss, encourage others to think with you. Senior bosses at companies such as Google DeepMind and Anthropic signed the letter along with another pioneer of AI, Geoffrey Hinton, who resigned from his job at Google earlier this month, saying that in the wrong hands, AI could be used to harm people and spell the end of humanity. Experts had already been warning that the technology could take jobs from humans, but the new statement warns of a deeper concern, saying AI could be used to develop new chemical weapons and enhance aerial combat. AI apps such as Midjourney and ChatGPT have gone viral on social media sites, with users posting fake images of celebrities and politicians, and students using ChatGPT and other language learning models to generate university-grade essays. But AI can also perform life-saving tasks, such as algorithms analysing medical images like X-rays, scans and ultrasounds, helping doctors to identify and diagnose diseases such as cancer and heart conditions more accurately and quickly. The government is looking very carefully at this. Last week I stressed to AI companies the importance of putting guardrails in place so development is safe and secure. But we need to work together. That's why I raised it at the @G7 and will do so again when I visit the US. https://t.co/vo04w4uC6L Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) May 31, 2023 Last week UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spoke about the importance of ensuring the right guard rails are in place to protect against potential dangers, ranging from disinformation and national security to existential threats, while also driving innovation. He retweeted the Centre for AI Safetys statement on Wednesday, adding: The government is looking very carefully at this. Last week I stressed to AI companies the importance of putting guardrails in place so development is safe and secure. But we need to work together. Thats why I raised it at the @G7 and will do so again when I visit the US. Prof Bengio told the BBC all companies building powerful AI products should be registered. Governments need to track what theyre doing, they need to be able to audit them, and thats just the minimum thing we do for any other sector like building aeroplanes or cars or pharmaceuticals, he said. We also need the people who are close to these systems to have a kind of certification we need ethical training here. Computer scientists dont usually get that, by the way. Prof Bengio said of AIs current state: Its never too late to improve. Its exactly like climate change. Weve put a lot of carbon in the atmosphere. And it would be better if we hadnt, but lets see what we can do now. Oxford University expert Sir Nigel Shadbolt, chairman of the London-based Open Data Institute, told the BBC: We have a huge amount of AI around us right now, which has become almost ubiquitous and unremarked. Theres software on our phones that recognise our voices, the ability to recognise faces. Actually, if we think about it, we recognise there are ethical dilemmas in just the use of those technologies. I think whats different now though, with the so-called generative AI, things like ChatGPT, is that this is a system which can be specialised from the general to many, many particular tasks and the engineering is in some sense ahead of the science. We dont quite know how to understand the absolute consequences of this technology, we all have in common a recognition that we need to innovate responsibly, that we need to think about the ethnical dimension, the values that these systems embody. We have to understand that AI is a huge force for good. We have to appreciate, not the very worst, (but) there are lots of existential challenges we face our technologies are on a par with other things that might cut us short, whether its climate or other challenges we face. But it seems to me that if we do the thinking now, in advance, if we do take the steps that people like Yoshua is arguing for, thats a good first step, its very good that weve got the field coming together to understand that this is a powerful technology that has a dark and a light side, it has a yin and a yang, and we need lots of voices in that debate. Six People Arrested for Selling Alcohol, Cannabis and Vape Products to Minors Crime, Business & Finance By Long Island Published: May 31 2023 Six individuals from various businesses in Suffolk County were arrested for selling cannabis products, vapes, e-cigarettes, and alcohol to minors after an investigation conducted by the Second Precinct Crime Section officers in response to community ... Suffolk County Police arrested six people for selling cannabis products, vapes/e-cigarettes and alcohol to minors. In response to numerous community complaints, Second Precinct Crime Section officers conducted an investigation into the sale of cannabis products, vapes and e-cigarettes, and alcohol during which eleven businesses were checked for compliance with the law. During the investigation, six businesses were found to be selling cannabis/marijuana products, vapes/e-cigarettes, or alcohol to minors. Two of the businesses have been issued citations for selling to a minor earlier this year. Mayank Kumar Patel, 35, of East Northport, an employee of Smoke & Beer Convenience Store, located at 216A Laurel Road, East Northport , was charged with Unlawfully Dealing with a Child 1st Degree for selling alcohol to a minor and Unlawfully Dealing with a Child 2nd Degree, both misdemeanor charges: The following people were charged with Unlawfully Dealing with a Child 2nd Degree, a misdemeanor: Michael Jackson, 23, of Greenlawn, an employee of Green Leaf Smoke Shop, located at 247 Broadway Greenlawn, Huntington. This location previously sold to a minor in 2023. Bassam Alrowhani, 33, of Valley Stream , an employee of Smoke Bazaar Cigar & Vape Shop, located at 67 Broadway Greenlawn, Greenlawn. Ryan Francis, of East Northport, 24, of , an employee of Country Tobacco, 765 RT 25A, East Northport. Juan Daniel Veliz Hernandez, 22, of East Northport, an employee of Oasis Smoke Shop, located at 38 Laurel Road, East Northport. A sixth person, Carl Bluethgen was charged with Unlawful Sale of Cannabis, a violation. Bluethgen, 21, of Fort Salonga, is an employee of East Northport Smoke Shop, located at 250 B Larkfield Road, East Northport. This location has previously sold to a minor in 2023. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: May 31 2023 The event, which is for Brookhaven Town residents, celebrates the 158th Anniversary of the end of slavery and includes food, games, music, trivia contests and activities for children. The Brookhaven Town Black History Commission will host the Ninth Annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration at the historic Longwood Estate in Ridge on Saturday June 17 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. The event, which is for Brookhaven Town residents, celebrates the 158th Anniversary of the end of slavery and includes food, games, music, trivia contests and activities for children. Tickets are limited. To RSVP, visit BrookhavenNY.gov/Juneteenth. For more information, call 631-451-2627. Local News By Chris Boyle Published: May 31 2023 Application for Workforce Retention Grant Program to Benefit 150,000 Caregivers Set to Open July 13. Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a $500 million investment in the FY 2024 Budget to bolster New York's child care workforce through the Workforce Retention Grant Program. Funding from the program will support 150,000 child care workers and can be used to provide bonus payments ranging from $2,300 to $3,000 to staff in caregiving roles, as well as to recruit new staff, offer sign-on and referral bonuses, and more. Applications will open on July 13. Governor Hochul made the announcement in Brooklyn during a visit to Vivvi, a child care provider based in New York City. The Governor also highlighted additional investments in the Budget to make child care more affordable and expand access for families across New York. "As the first mother to serve as Governor of New York, I know first-hand the impact that the lack of affordable child care can have on a family," Governor Hochul said. "Child care is truly at the foundation of New York's success, which is why it is central to our work to make the state more affordable and more livable. I'm proud of the investments in child care we have made in this Budget to make care more accessible for families, grow our workforce, and make a down payment on the future of our state." The FY 2024 Budget created the Workforce Retention Grant Program, which will make $500 million in underutilized federal funds available as grants for eligible child care programs. Funding can be used to provide bonus payments ranging from $2,300 to $3,000 to staff in caregiving roles, as well as to recruit new staff, offer sign-on and referral bonuses and more. Applications for the Workforce Retention Grant Program will open on July 13. As part of a historic investment in families and child care, the FY 2024 Budget also includes a $4.8 million investment in a new Employer-Sponsored Child Care Pilot Program. Participating employers, the state and employees will split the cost of child care. Families must fall between 85 percent and 100 percent of the state median income to qualify. The pilot will operate in three separate regions throughout the state. The FY 2024 Budget established a new Employer Child Care Tax Credit available to businesses that create new child care seats (and expand existing options) for workers. The $25 million annual credit will be administered through the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance (DTF) and the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS). Additionally, $1 million was allocated in the Budget to create a statewide business navigator program in each of the 10 Regional Economic Development Council regions to help interested businesses identify options to support employees' child care needs and will also develop a statewide employer child care guidebook. The FY 2024 Budget also invests in New York's families by expanding the Empire State Child Credit (ESCC) to include children under four years of age. This expansion will provide $179 million in total support for over 525,000 low and middle-income taxpayers thanks to the inclusion of nearly 630,000 additional children. The ESCC, which has excluded children under four since its inception in 2006, will now provide an additional average benefit of $340 per affected taxpayer and $284 per newly included child. Office of Children and Family Services Acting Commissioner Suzanne Miles-Gustave said, "Since day one, Governor Hochul has understood that the only way child care in New York can become more accessible, affordable and equitable is through bold action. These targeted investments and reforms will help grow and support our child care workforce, encourage employers to work alongside families in securing child care services and provide historic funding for more New Yorkers to receive child care assistance than ever before. OCFS is beyond proud to be overseeing and administering these transformational initiatives." Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, "These critical investments to strengthen New York's child care workforce will help ensure that there is accessible and reliable child care for families while providing more equitable compensation for our early educators. This will ensure that more families have expanded access to quality child care services they need. I am proud to support Governor Hochul's commitment to make affordable and accessible-child care a reality for more families across New York State." Co-Founder and CEO of Vivvi Charles Bonello said, "We're proud to support Governor Hochul's efforts to serve more parents, more children and more dedicated early childhood educators across New York State. Vivvi's entire mission is to make exceptional child care and learning accessible and affordable for working families. Solving the child care crisis requires more than just rhetoricit takes true partnership between the public and private sectors." The FY 2024 Budget investments build on Governor Hochul's long record of making child care fairer, more accessible, and more affordable in New York State. As Governor, she continues to work to overhaul the child care system. In addition to those outlined above, child care investments include: (Alliance News) - The following stocks are the leading risers and fallers among London Main Market small-caps on Wednesday. ---------- SMALL-CAP - WINNERS ---------- Taylor Maritime Investments Ltd, up 1.6% at 84.36 pence, 12-month range 84.48p-126.32p. The Guernsey-based vessel investment company names Henry Strutt as its non-executive chair, effective immediately. Strutt is currently chair of Edinburgh Worldwide Investment Trust PLC. Chief Executive Officer Edward Buttery says: "I am delighted to welcome Henry at such a formative time for TMI. His extensive management experience in both financial services and the investment trust space will position us ideally as we look to generate compelling synergies from our recent acquisition of Grindrod and face the market as a force to be reckoned with in geared dry bulk". ---------- SMALL-CAP - LOSERS ---------- James Fisher & Sons PLC, down 0.7% at 365.43p, 12-month range 242.00p-415.50p. The provider of specialist services to the marine, oil and gas and other industries continues to make losses after poor start to 2023. In the year-to-date the stock is down 10% and down 3.7% in the last 12 months. In April, James Fisher reported improved revenue and a swing to profit in 2022, as it looked to turn a corner after a "disappointing financial performance over the past couple of years". James Fisher said revenue for 2022 increased by 8.1% to GBP478.1 million from GBP442.4 million the previous year. It swung to a pretax profit of GBP14.5 million in 2022, from a loss of GBP28.9 million loss in 2021. ---------- By Sophie Rose, Alliance News reporter Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved. (Alliance News) - Zenova Group PLC on Wednesday reported a widened annual loss and "lower than expected" revenue But, it said sales are now improving following successful product launches and a "very positive" collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University. The Essex-based fire safety and thermal insulation products provider reported a pretax loss of GBP2.0 million for the year ended November 30, widened from the GBP1.1 million loss reported the year before. Revenue shot up to GBP175,000 from GBP6,000, but sales were still lower than anticipated. The widened loss was mainly due to administrative expenses, which increased by 86% to GBP2.1 million from GBP1.1 million. Zenova also incurred GBP67,000 in cost of sales and GBP10,000 in finance costs, both up from zero the prior year. The company declared no dividend for the 2022 financial year, unchanged from the prior year. More recent operational highlights included the launch of the FX500 hand-held fire extinguisher in April, with pre-order clients including the Ukrainian military. Furthermore in early May Zenova concluded a successful trial of its Zenova IP thermal insulation paint with Liverpool John Moores University. It said benefits from the product included lower fuel bills and improved energy performance certificate ratings. Zenova said it is well positioned for future turnover growth, but meanwhile has implemented a "rigorous cost management" programme to maintain sufficient working capital. It intends to focus on sales growth over the next year and expects improved distribution channels, and the upcoming launches of two new extinguishers, to add further revenue streams. "It has been a challenging year with a number of issues impacting on the pace of sales, primarily testing and verification taking longer than expected...the sales cycle is now improving with the relevant validation and certification in place to allow the products to scale into the commercial sectors within Europe," said Chief Executive Officer Tony Crawley. "Production of the FX500 is now underway in Canada as well, and with the level of interest from the USA and Canada markets we see encouraging sales. Further interest of Zenova IP paint in the USA as well as in the UK and Europe is also gaining traction following the very positive recently published Liverpool John Moores University trial results." Shares in Zenova were down 2.1% at 4.16 pence in London on Wednesday. By Emma Curzon, Alliance News reporter Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Download Image: Web Lycoming College will host alumnus Jim Minick 86 in the Humanities Research Center for a presentation and reading from his new book, Without Warning: The Tornado of Udall, Kansas. Part of a 12-stop tour to launch the new book, the reading will take place in the Humanities Research Center on the Lycoming campus, Tuesday, June 13, at 3 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. On May 25, 1955, an F5 tornado struck Udall, Kan., at 10:35 p.m. There was no warning. In roughly three minutes, it destroyed most of the buildings, toppled the water tower, and killed 82 people. The Udall tornado was, and still is, the worst in the history of Kansas and one of the worst in U.S. history. Without Warning tells the story of this towns destruction and rebuilding through the eyes of those who survived, and this story provides insights into how we might move forward into our climate-changed future. While Minick was looking for a new book project, he heard of the story of the Udall tornado from his sister-in-law who grew up in this small town. She and her mother introduced me to many survivors, and when I began to hear and collect these incredible stories, I knew I had to try to capture their power in this book, he said. While on campus, Minick will also conduct a workshop for a select group of Lycoming students on collecting and using oral histories as they work to expand the Colleges digital humanities capacity to help strengthen humanities education at the institution. The foundation of my education and time at Lycoming was based on close relationships with several professors, especially Emily Jensen and David Rife. They spent hours working with me both in and out of the classroom, and now that Ive taught for more than 30 years, I realize how special and time-intensive that kind of work is, said Minick. Returning to campus is a small way of showing gratitude and paying it forward, and also another way to support the work of the Humanities Resource Center to demonstrate the great interconnection between all disciplines. I hope Lycoming students understand that interconnection and the value of their time at Lycoming. Minick is the author or editor of eight books, including Without Warning: The Tornado of Udall, Kansas (nonfiction), The Intimacy of Spoons (poetry, forthcoming), Fire Is Your Water, (novel), and The Blueberry Years: A Memoir of Farm and Family. His work has appeared in many publications including The New York Times, Poets & Writers, Oxford American, Orion, Shenandoah, The Sun, Conversations with Wendell Berry, Appalachian Journal, Wind, and The Sun. He serves as coeditor of Pine Mountain Sand & Gravel. His honors include the Jean Ritchie Fellowship in Appalachian Writing and the Fred Chappell Fellowship at UNC-Greensboro. Minick has also won awards from the Southern Independent Booksellers Association, Southern Environmental Law Center, The Virginia College Bookstore Association, Appalachian Writers Association, Radford University, and elsewhere. Minicks poem I Dream a Bean was picked by Claudia Emerson for permanent display at the Tysons Corner/Metrorail Station. Hes garnered grants from the Virginia Commission for the Arts, the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities, Augusta University, Georgia Humanities Council, and the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts. Additional details on Minicks writing, events, and other work are available at www.jim-minick.com. Microsoft has released details on a security vulnerability that the company discovered in macOS Ventura. The vulnerability, which Microsoft dubbed Migraine, involved Apples Migration Assistant and allows a hacker to get by macOSs System Integrity Protection and get access to the data on the Mac. In a blog post, Microsoft provides the technical details on how Migraine works. Apples SIP provides security for macOS to stop unauthorized root access, but the Migration Assistant app has a privilege that allows it to have unrestricted root access. Microsoft created a modified version of Migration Assistant that takes advantage of this exploit, but the modified app had to be used while the Macs Setup Assistant is in debug mode. Microsofts researchers were able to use the exploit and then run an AppleScript that mounted a Time Machine backup with infected data, which was transferred to the Mac. The Migraine vulnerability uses Migration Assistant to obtain root access on an infected Mac. Apple Documented as CVE-2023-32369 in the CVE.report database, Apple fixed Migraine with the macOS Ventura 13.4, macOS Monterey 12.6.6, and macOS Big Sur 11.7.7 updates released about two weeks ago and is noted in Apples security notes. It is customary for security researchers to publish their findings after Apple has fixed the vulnerability. In the Impact section, Apple says the flaw could allow an app to modify protected parts of the file system. To see if the update is installed, check Software Update in System Settings/Preferences. You can also install the update from there. Installation requires an internet connection and the update is over 2GB, so you need to set aside some time to download, install, and restart your Mac. Apple has protections in place within macOS and the company releases security patches through OS updates, so its important to install them as soon as possible. Macworld has several guides to help keep your Mac safe, including a guide on whether or not you need antivirus software, a list of Mac viruses, malware, and trojans, and a comparison of Mac security software. Snoop Dogg, who hasnt performed in New Zealand since 2014 when he headlined the Big Day Out, will return to New Zealand shores in 2023 for his I WANNA THANK ME tour, which will see the West Coast rap legend celebrate the release of his 17th album I Wanna Thank Me, and documentary of the same name, released in 2019. Dubai, United Arab Emirates Huthi rebels and Yemens government have exchanged the corpses of dozens of fighters, in the largest such handover since their war began more than eight years ago, a government official said on Tuesday. The transfer took place Monday in Al-Jawf province with the help of mediation by local authorities. A total of 43 bodies were exchanged, including 21 belonging to the Yemeni army killed in the south of Marib more than a year ago, the official said on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the media. The bodies were buried on Tuesday in Marib, he added. A six-month truce brokered by the United Nations expired in October last year, but fighting has largely remained on hold as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict intensified. In April Riyadhs ambassador to Yemen, Mohammed al-Jaber, travelled to Sanaa as part of a plan to stabilise the truce. Although no deal was struck, Jaber later said warring parties are serious about ending the conflict. The Iran-backed Huthis seized Sanaa in 2014, prompting a Saudi-led military intervention months later. Hundreds of thousands have died in the war, which triggered a major humanitarian crisis. Marib governorate, an oil-rich region, saw some of the most bitter fighting in the past two years. The city of Marib is the last northern bastion of the government, which is now based in the southern city of Aden. In April the rebels and government forces freed nearly 900 prisoners under a deal agreed in Switzerland. The push for peace in Yemen appeared to be revived by a surprise rapprochement deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran announced in March. Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Presenting Restylane Kysse are (from left) Galdermas General Manager Louie Roxas, facial plastic and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Henry John F. Claravall, dermatologist Dr. Ma. Jennina Francisco-Diaz, plastic surgeon Dr. Stephanie Lam, cosmetic surgeon Dr. Sidney G. Cu, and Galderma Aesthetics Business Unit Head Michelle de Jesus. Restylane, the world-renowned pioneer in Hyaluronic Acid dermal fillers, kicks off the launch of their new treatment approach: Kiss and Smile HIT (Holistic Individualized Treatment). This is a part of a series of innovative HIT strategies which focus on the lips and perioral area. Each patient has a unique lips story and a different definition of the perfect lips that calls for an individualized treatment, said Dr. Stephanie Lam, an internationally renowned plastic surgeon. This is why a selection of complimentary Restylane products like Restylane Kysse and Restylane Refyne or Defyne can help fulfill your patients lip desires and enable them to kiss and smile with confidence. For some, this may be a desire to have fuller, more youthful and kissable lips. We have Restylane Kysse, which makes lips soft and plump and allows patients to have natural-looking lips. Data shows that 86 percent of patients feel more attractive after the treatment and 91 percent received positive comments from their partner after treatment, said Christine Legaspi, Marketing and CET Manager. Restylane Kysse, Restylane Defyne, and Restylane Refyne are available at select dermatology and aesthetic clinics throughout the Philippines. The product is administered by a licensed healthcare professional, and the results are immediate. The treatment is minimally invasive with no downtime required. For more information on Restylane and to find a licensed healthcare professional near you, message https://www.facebook.com/GaldermaAestheticsPH/ Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. NGCP continues to improve the performance of the power grid since taking over as the countrys transmission service provider in 2009. NGCPs overall performance in operating the grid from 2009 to 2022 was significantly better as indicated by improved performance indicators compared to when the grid was run by the government from 2000 to 2008. Among the key indicators is the Frequency of Tripping (FOT) which measures the number of times high-voltage transmission lines tripped or experienced forced outages for every 100 circuit kilometers (ckm). NGCPs performance shows a significant decrease in tripping incidents across all three major island grids. In Luzon, the average FOT has gone down from 6.4732 in 2000-2008 to 1.3386 in 2009-2022, from 6.6530 to 0.9508 in Visayas, and from 8.0788 to 1.3285 for Mindanao. Frequency of tripping NGCP also improved the capability of the grid to mitigate the impact of power interruptions to overall grid operations, which are measured by the System Availability (SA) indicator and System Interruption Severity Index (SISI). With NGCP at the helm, System Availability for Luzon is at 99.3160%, Visayas at 99.6538%, and Mindanao at 99.7206%. For the SISI, Luzon only averaged 10.7236 system minutes of interruptions in 2009-2022 compared to 13.8978 from 2000-2008; in Visayas, 47.3318 system minutes of interruption during NGCP time from an average of 176.3350 system minutes pre-privatization; and 9.124 system minutes from 10.434 in Mindanao. System Availability System Interruption Severity Index These indicators are the most tangible proof of our performance felt by end-users. Our improved numbers are attributed to the continuous upgrading and expansion projects such as wood pole replacement, substation additions, capacitor bank projects, and new transmission lines, effectively reinforcing the stability and reliability of the grid, NGCP said. All three grids have significantly reduced, if not completely eliminated, violations on frequency and voltage limits. The average Voltage Limit Compliance (VLC) improved across all three grids, while Frequency Limit Compliance (FLC) improved in both Luzon and Visayas, generally ensuring stability of the transmission grid. Voltage Limit Compliance Frequency Limit Compliance Since NGCP took over transmission operations in 2009, we performed over and above our targets year-on-year. This is a result of the companys commitment to deliver on our mandate to provide quality transmission services. We assure our stakeholders that NGCPs ongoing projects and programs seek only to further improve our services, the company added. NGCPs performance indicator ratings are the basis of its incentives, as indicated in the Performance Incentive Scheme (PIS) which is reviewed and approved every regulatory period by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Little Amal, a 12-foot (3.7-meter) puppet of a Syrian refugee, will journey across the United States this fall, visiting key places in Americas history to raise awareness about immigration and migration. The puppet of the 10-year-old girl will visit the U.S. Capitol, Boston Common, Joshua Tree National Park and the Edmund Pettus Bridge among other sites during a trek that starts in Boston on Sept. 7 and ends Nov. 5 along the U.S.-Mexico border. There is something in the act of welcoming a stranger which redefines you, says Amir Nizar Zuabi, the artistic director. I think thats part of what were trying to create when walking into places that have a beautiful, complicated, defining history. Stops are also planned for Philadelphia, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta, the Tennessee cities of Nashville and Memphis, New Orleans, the Texas cities of Austin, Houston, San Antonio and El Paso, as well as the California cities of Los Angeles and San Diego. Obviously theres a lot of specific points in our American history that we felt that we needed to address and thats the reason why were starting in Boston, says Enrico Dau Yang Wey, lead puppeteer and co-associate artistic director. The reason why we were finishing in San Diego is that its theres just such a thin line between the United States and Mexico. Little Amal demands empathy, the puppet of a vulnerable, naive girl who is in a strange place after surviving a long ordeal alone. Shes just a symbol of millions of children, says Zuabi. Just having a community breathe together and walk with Amal for a stretch in the streets becomes a very, very meaningful act. Organizers are reaching out to community artists and leaders at each of the 35 stops including places revered in Civil Rights Movement history like Selma, Alabama, and recent scenes of gun violence like Uvalde, Texas to create more than 100 special events anchored by each place visited. We work very closely with our local partners and try and understand what is the story theyre trying to tell and try to co-create an event that resonates in this place to this community, says Zuabi. I think thats part of why this project becomes so emotional for many people. Little Amal was created by the Handspring Puppet Company of South Africa, who made the award-winning puppets for the hit show War Horse. She requires four puppeteers at each visit, three to move her head and limbs and one to collect items people give her. A total of nine puppeteers will make the coast-to-coast trek with Little Amal. A lot of the ways we think about refugees, about immigrants, about migration, are informed and informed in American, says Zuabi. In a way, thats a discussion we want to join and learn and listen. Last year, the puppet made a 17-day circuit through every corner of New York City, including joining a reading of the book Julian Is a Mermaid at the Brooklyn Public Library and a drum circle in Harlem. This June, she will be in Toronto. The puppet completed a 5,000-mile (8,050-kilometer) trek across Europe in 2021, from the Syrian-Turkish border to northwest England, traveling through 12 countries including greeting refugees from Ukraine at a Polish train station and stopping at refugee camps in Greece and meeting with Pope Francis. Wey describes Little Amal as a miraculous thing that pulls people together suddenly to create a collective sense of empathy and a collective sense of awe. Every time its different and every time you learn a little bit more. Its one of those things where we learn on the job, he adds. I have to get a new pair of walking boots. A Berklee College of Music student is set to perform at Lollapalooza in Chicago in August. Tyler Christian is performing at at the Chicago festival, which is being held Aug. 36. They are an R&B, pop and rock artist, according to the schools website. Christian recently released their debut EP called Reasons. They also graduated from Berklee College of Music in May. Christian and seven other students are able to perform at various festivals thanks to the Berklee Popular Music Institute. Throughout the academic year, students in BPMIs A&R group reviewed hundreds of artist submissions and narrowed the field through a combination of factors that included recordings, videos, live performances, and social media presence, the school said. The A&R group also considered the artists style of music for genre-specific festivals such as INKcarceration (metal) and Faster Horses (country). Students take the class for three semesters. In the fall, the artists management teams are selected. In the spring, students work on artist development, marketing, digital presence, budgets, merchandise, sponsorships and advancing their assigned festival. The final semester, teams rehearse and prepare for the festival. The festival stage is a vastly different experience than a club show, according to the college. Christian thanked the Berklee Popular Music Institute on Instagram for the opportunity. They also thanked their band for bringing my music to life and turning my visions into reality. The son of former Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker brokered a deal with state prosecutors after he was arrested and charged with operating under the influence of alcohol in Lynnfield earlier in May, WHDH reports. Andrew A.J. Baker cut a deal in Essex County court Tuesday, according to WHDH. State prosecutors and a judge agreed to place Baker on one year of probation. His license was revoked and he will be fined $600, including $250 to pay for a 16-week alcohol education course, WHDH reported. Bakers arrest will be wiped clean off his record if he follows the courts mandate and avoids any issues over the next year, the news station reported. On May 13, a state trooper responded to a report of a Volkswagen Jetta driving erratically on Interstate 95 south near Walnut Street in Lynnfield, according to state police. Peabody police told state troopers that the driver appeared to be intoxicated. When the Jetta was pulled over, police identified the driver as Baker, 29, of South Boston, according to state police. The trooper gave Baker several sobriety tests and determined he was impaired by liquor, according to officials. Baker was taken to the State Police-Danvers Barracks, where he was booked. During his May 15 arraignment, Baker pleaded not guilty to the OUI charge. This isnt Bakers first run-in with the law. In 2018, he was accused of groping a woman on a JetBlue flight, according to a police report leaked to the Boston Globe, but was never charged. BOSTON About $250,000 in grants will be going to local policy and action groups to fight food insecurity and aid marginalized populations across the commonwealth, the Governors Office announced Wednesday. The Local Food Policy Council funding is being awarded to 17 Massachusetts organizations. The state Department of Agricultural Resources grants will enhance the work of existing and new groups statewide, the Governors Office said in a statement. The grants are designed to help boost the development and capacity of these food groups, as well as support peer-to-peer learning in the states local food systems. This support is critical, especially as our local food system weathers an increasingly volatile climate, said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper in the statement. Agricultural Resources Commissioner Ashley Randle thanked the Legislature for appropriating the grant money. Projects and initiatives funded through this program will develop and continue work to impact the long-term viability and sustainability of our local food system in Massachusetts, Randle said. The grant recipients include: PALMER The Massachusetts House and Senate both passed $56 billion budgets last week, but neither spending plan included the governors allotment of $12 million for east-west rail projects in Palmer and Pittsfield. Gov. Maura T. Healey included $4 million for the study and design of a possible Palmer station and another $8.5 million for track improvements in Pittsfield in her proposed budget March 1. On Monday, while visiting Agawam to mark Memorial Day, Healey told reporters that the push to reintroduce fast, frequent passenger rail service from Springfield to Boston remains a priority for her administration. She campaigned here on the east-west rail, appearing with U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal and longtime booster and one-time candidate for lieutenant governor Eric Lesser at a post-primary rally at Union Station in Springfield in September. Were going to continue to push for funding and for resources, Healey told reporters Monday. It continues to be a priority. She said east-west rail is one way of addressing the high cost of housing in the burgeoning economy of Boston and its suburbs. Its important not only for Western Massachusetts, its important for the entire state, she said. (The Legislature) didnt feel that was the right vehicle to fund east-west rail. Additional money may appear in a bond bill. And she rejected the idea that the budget votes reflect skepticism on Beacon Hill for east-west rail. I think there are a lot of challenges right now and a lot of needs, she said. State Sen. Jacob Oliveira, D-Ludlow, represents Palmer and hosted state Senate President Karen Spilka for a tour of the site in March. Oliveira spokesman Derrick Cruz said Tuesday that the senator is waiting on the report of the Western Massachusetts Passenger Rail Commission. Oliveira said that the report will identify opportunities for future funding. 13 1 / 13 Senate President Karen Spilka visits Palmer's Steaming Tender Restaurant to talk East-West Rail Thats what local rail boosters are hearing, too. We are trying to remain upbeat about the entire process, said Anne Miller, co-founder of the group Citizens for a Palmer Rail Stop. Ben Hood, also a founder of Citizens for a Palmer Rail Stop, noted that the proposed legislative budgets left out the $12 million for Western Massachusetts rail but kept $250 million for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, the states metro rail agency. A Palmer rail stop would serve as a park-and-ride transit hub for riders from Springfields eastern suburbs, as well as the University of Massachusetts Amherst and from as far south as Stafford Springs, Connecticut. A still-pending funding stream for east-west rail is the $108 million grant application from the state Department of Transportation, and rail companies Amtrak and CSX Corp. The money, from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements grant program, would pay for improvements along the 53 miles of rail between Springfield and Worcester. The application is currently with the Federal Railroad Administration at the U.S Department of Transportation. The improvements would allow Amtrak to add two daily trips between Boston, Worcester and Springfield as a first phase of east-west rail. In June 2022, Springfield Union Station received $1.75 million from the CRISI program for track upgrades, including additional platforms, additional crossover tracks, storage tracks and a new layover facility. As the planned closing of UMass Memorial Healths Leominster birth ward approaches, advocates and nurse union leaders have raised concerns that the closing will further disadvantage poor and minority patients, especially as statistics have shown a steady increase in maternal mortality, particularly among people of color. According to a report released last year by the Special Legislative Commission on Racial Inequities in Maternal Health, Black non-Hispanic residents in the United States experience significantly higher maternal mortality than white non-Hispanic and Hispanic residents, and the numbers have increased disproportionately in recent years. The reports data, sourced from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that, in 2020, the white (19.1) and Hispanic (20.2) maternal mortality rates (measured per 100,000 live births) paled in comparison to mortality rates among Black populations (55.3). Read More: Health commission created in Massachusetts to address racial inequities in maternal mortality rates Though Massachusetts in general sees lower maternal mortality than most of the rest of the country, statistics from the Massachusetts Department of Health show a general increase in pregnancy-associated mortality between 1998 and 2019, with 2015 topping the chart. That year, more than 40 pregnant Massachusetts residents died for every 100,000 live births. The pregnancy-associated death metric measures deaths from all causes, and does not reflect only deaths of which pregnancy itself was a cause. The Boston Globe reported more than 100 protestors gathered Tuesday at the hospital to oppose the planned closure. Were here because whats unacceptable to this community is young women giving birth on the side of the road on the way to Worcester, state Sen. John Cronin, D-Lunenburg, told The Globe. In a statement Friday, Steve Roach, president of UMass Memorial HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital, referenced pervasive challenges shaping our health care environment, including falling birth rates and staffing problems. The hospital plans to close the birthing center on Sept. 22, pending regulatory approval, Roach said. In its statement this week opposing the plan, the Massachusetts Nurses Association pointed to an increase in maternity deserts across the country, and noted 10 recent closings of birth centers or maternity wards across the state. While the national nonprofit March of Dimes doesnt show Massachusetts or specifically Worcester County as a maternity desert in its 2022 report, the group classifies such areas of low or no access to maternity care on a county level, without focusing on possible disparities within counties. The nurse union published a graphic in its statement classifying most of central and western Massachusetts as moderate to high on an area deprivation index, measured by individual census blocks. Parts of Leominster and Fitchburg, as well as Worcester, measure especially high on that index. A man police believe to be a serial rapist was arrested in New Jersey on Tuesday, the FBI said. Matthew J. Nilo was arrested Tuesday in connection with multiple rapes in Boston in 2007 and 2008, the FBI, Boston Police and Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said. He was arrested in Weehawken, New Jersey, where he was living, according to officials. Officials have accused Nilo of sexually assaulting four women in the Terminal Street area in Charlestown on Aug. 18, 2007, Nov. 22, 2007, Aug. 5, 2008, and Dec. 23, 2008, according to the Boston Police Department. All four cases are DNA connected, Police Commissioner Michael Cox said, according to the Boston Globe. Nilo was charged with three counts of aggravated rape, two counts of kidnapping, one count of assault with intent to rape and one count of indecent assault and battery, the police department said. The FBI said it used investigative genetic genealogy to help identify the person responsible. The technology combines traditional DNA analysis with publicly available genealogy research and historical records to identify potential leads and suspects in a case, Joseph Bonavolonta, FBI Bostons special agent in charge, said, according to NBC Boston. Read more: Worcester settles federal lawsuit accusing police of hurting autistic boy This type of technology wasnt available at the time of the crimes, the news outlet reported. While we know Matthew Nilos arrest cannot ease the harm he has allegedly inflected upon his survivors, we believe we have removed a dangerous threat from our community. This investigation also highlights our collective commitment to bringing sexual predators to justice for their crimes, Bonavolonta said. The most important takeaway today is for victims of violent crimes and their families. You should know despite the passage of time, the FBI, the Boston Police Department, and our law enforcement partners will not give up, and we will continue to use any technological advancement we can to seek justice for you and your families. A ninja from the Hidden Leaf Village forgot to pack their throwing knives inside their checked-in baggage when traveling through Boston Logan International Airport Saturday. Transport Security Agency officers confiscated a Naruto-branded ninja knife set from a travelers carry-on bag at Boston Logan Airport, officials said on Twitter. Knives can only be packed in checked-in bags, according to TSAs website. Any sharp objects in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors, the website read. Plastic or round-bladed butter knives are allowed in carry-on luggage and can be brought through TSA security check. A full list of what items are and arent allowed to be carried onto a flight can be viewed on TSAs website. A teenager from Pembroke was rescued on Monday on New Hampshires White Mountains after she hurt her ankle while hiking down a trail, officials said. Shortly before 8 p.m., the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department was notified that Alyssa Chahed, 18, was severely injured when she descended the Weetamoo Trail on Mt. Chocorua, officials said. She was 2 miles from the trailhead. Chahed attempted to bear weight on her injured ankle but was unable to, officials said. Officials said Chaheds companions called 911 for help. After first responders arrived, Chahed was treated, placed in a rescue basket and carried out, officials said. A Plymouth County man officials say fled the scene of a car crash that left a woman dead has been indicted by a grand jury, according to Plymouth County District Attorney Timothy J. Cruz. Juan Leonardo Parra Altamirano, 33, was indicted on Tuesday on the charge of leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death, Cruz said. Altamirano is currently being held without bail pending his arraignment in Superior Court. A 2008 Toyota Scion TC and a 2015 Honda Accord were traveling northbound on Route 24 in West Bridgewater around 10:30 p.m. on April 3, the district attorney said. The two cars collided, which left the Honda Accord with no lights in the middle of the lane. Another collision occurred between an oncoming pickup truck and the Honda Accord, the district attorney said. According to the Massachusetts State Police, the Honda Accord was engulfed in flames and killed the driver, 46-year-old Erpharo Gilbert of Raynham, WJAR reported. The operator of the Toyota Scion Altamirano got out of his vehicle and eventually fled the scene, the officials said. The Toyota Scion had left behind a bumper sticker and a license plate. A resident of Ludlow brought a copy of John Greens Looking for Alaska to a recent School Committee meeting in defense of a proposed book removal policy at the towns schools. Bella Soares read a passage from the 2005 coming-of-age novel describing a sexual act into the record and argued that such books containing explicit descriptions are not appropriate for the school districts libraries. This is definitely pornography, Soares said. Im sorry to tell you all that. The debate about books in Ludlow school libraries has brewed for at least the past four years, according to Soares, and a School Committee member recently submitted a proposed policy that would allow members of the school board to vote on whether a book is allowed or not. Such titles as Smoke, by Dan Vyleta, People Kill People, by Ellen Hopkins, and Burned, also by Hopkins, were stacked in front of School Committee member Joao Dias, who introduced the controversial book removal policy, at the most recent meeting. Dias said he got the idea of the book removal policy from Central Buck School District in Pennsylvania, which approved the policy last summer and is now the subject of a federal complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice. But dont call the proposed policy in Ludlow a book ban, Dias said. This policy is not a book ban by any definition. If anyone claims it is, they are lying, Dias wrote in a statement to MassLive. The policy proposal drew a large group of parents and teachers at the May 23 committee meeting, with opponents and supporters clashing over the impact the policy would have on books available particularly those about LGBTQ subjects. What does the policy say? As currently proposed, the policy would give the superintendent or an appointed designee the responsibility of creating a list of recommended books. This list would be posted on the school districts website for 30 days to allow parents and other community members a chance to comment. Finally, the superintendent would submit a final list to the School Committee which may accept or reject the list as a whole or in parts. Read the entire policy here. Dias, along with Ludlow School Committee member Ronald Saloio, pushed for the book removal policy at the May 23 meeting, while other members seemed unenthusiastic about the idea. Committee member Jeffrey Stratton compared the policy to micromanaging librarians employed by the district whose job it is to curate the books in the schools libraries. Member Sarah Bowler said the districts librarians have the expertise to determine what books should be available to students. We dont possess the educational background that a librarian does to make the educational decision to properly choose what is appropriate for our students in a library environment, Bowler said. Nor do probably the majority of the town. She added, Those decisions should be left up to our librarians, our teachers, those people who have the knowledge, the developmental backgrounds of what is appropriate for our students. Legal challenges The American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania took legal action against Central Buck School District last fall after school officials enacted their book removal policy. The ACLU of Pennsylvania said it did a months-long investigation into bullying, harassment, and discrimination of LGBTQ students in Central Bucks schools before filing its complaint, according to a press release. The ACLU described school district officials in Central Buck School District as hostile towards LGBTQ students and that the book removal policy was designed to remove LGBTQ-themed books and learning resources. Even as the book removal policy has met a legal challenge in Pennsylvania, Dias argues that Ludlow librarians are currently vulnerable to legal action by parents who find books offensive or containing sexual content. The current policy leaves a lot of the decision-making to a librarian, if that librarian makes the wrong policy decision on a book, and its the decision that you dont like, youll probably sue her or him, Dias said. Theyre actually exposed to legal liability today. Its just a matter of time before it actually happens. Residents in support of the book removal policy in Ludlow say the proposed policy is about removing books containing descriptions of sex or drug use and other obscene material. This has nothing to do with LGBTQ, get this all through your heads, said Soares. It has to do with pornographic books in our school; pornographic, drugs, rape, obscenity books. Thats what were trying to eliminate here. Yet the first Ludlow resident to speak in favor of the book removal policy used two anti-homosexual books to make her case. Deborah Martell said she wants parents and voters to protect children from sexual exposure, lude and lascivious behavior, sexual misconduct and vulgar actions. Martell held up a book called The Health Hazards of Homosexuality and another called Why I Dont Call Myself Gay, which she described as about a homosexual man who changed his lifestyle through the grace of God. Martell previously faced calls to step down from her position as a Republican state committeewoman after making anti-gay remarks in 2021, according to The Boston Globe. Martells comments led the states Republican committee to pass a resolution that stated bigotry and intolerance have no place in the Republican Party of Massachusetts. Teachers and a middle school librarian spoke out during the May 23 meeting against the book removal policy. Michelle DAmore, a teacher at Baird Middle School and the chairperson for the English Department said blanket censorship has no place in America and said students access to the internet poses a greater risk of being exposed to explicit content. I submit that rather than engaging in unconstitutional book banning, any citizen concerned about what children might be exposed to in literature, instead, advocate for the passage of the proposed Childrens Online Privacy Protection rule ... and additional, tighter regulations for the internet, including social media platforms, as well as video sites as Tik Tok and YouTube to restrict online audiences for adult material, DAmoure said. A vote on the policy is expected at the June 13 meeting. The former owner of a dog kennel and training facility in South Boston appeared in court Wednesday on charges of animal cruelty relating to three dogs that stayed in the kennel, court officials said. Tyler Falconer, of Burlington, faces animal cruelty and other charges after an investigation by the Animal Rescue League of Boston, Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden said. Suffolk County Assistant District Attorney Kelly Ryan said each of the dogs, which stayed at Falco K9 over various dates between 2020 and 2023, lost significant weight or were injured during their stays. She said one lost 20 pounds, while another suffered a foot puncture wound that required treatment. Read more: Owner charged with animal cruelty for death of dog shut in Westfield apartment Falconer faces three counts each of animal cruelty by a custodian improperly tethering or confining an animal. Falconer was arraigned in Boston Municipal Court Wednesday, after which Judge Michael Bolden released him on personal recognizance, Haydens office said. Falconer is next due in court on July 18 for a pretrial hearing. Hayden, a dog owner, thanked the Animal Rescue League for its work on the case and expressed sympathy for the dogs and the families involved. Dogs bring so much joy to the lives of the families who care for them and love them. They return that love, enormously, Hayden said in a statement. When necessary to board, its vital for the families to know that their dogs are in a safe, healthy environment and are treated with kindness and care. That was clearly not the case here, as these disturbing facts make quite clear, Hayden said. It cant be easy to go to work every day at the Special Victims Unit run by the Hampden District Attorneys Office. The cases that pour in are horrific. One after another, young victims of crime reveal whats been done to them. As the units leader told reporter Stephanie Barry of The Republican, no one else in the office outside our unit wants to talk about the details of our cases. Though thats understandable, no one should turn away from the scale of cruelty and violence committed against children and the disabled. In the first five months of 2023, the Hampden County office opened at least 373 new cases, most of them involving the sexual abuse of children. Last year brought 933 cases. This time of year, commencement speakers are fond of saying a society should be judged by how it cares for its most vulnerable. The team led by Assistant District Attorney Eileen Sears more than passes that test. As Barry reported Sunday, the office does more than bring abusers to justice. Its staff helps victims of unspeakable crimes find the words needed to turn trauma suffered in secret into the possibility of accountability, and healing, through the justice system. Sears staff, joined by police detectives in departments across Hampden County, stares down evidence of evil daily. Prosecutors build cases against the accused. Other specialists minister to the special needs of young crime victims, helping them find and tell their stories. Forensic interviewers help them sort out the lies and justifications that abusers concoct. Because revealing all that is so difficult for children, the process aims to do it only once, reducing the likelihood of re-traumatizing them. To shape a criminal prosecution, hard evidence is needed, including dates and details. The current DA, Anthony D. Gulluni, recognized the teams importance and doubled its staff. Through a restructuring, the unit narrowed its focus to crimes against children and the disabled. That added capacity is needed, Gulluni said in an interview last week, because the number of crimes is rising. The staff must ask children and the disabled about dark moments they might prefer to forget, even if that leaves an assailant free to abuse again. Thats not an option for a community that wants to pass that moral test. On this episode of MassLives Fenway Rundown podcast, Chris Cotillo and Sean McAdam talk with Red Sox GM Brian OHalloran. OHalloran discusses what hes most surprised about with Boston thus far, how the front office has evolved since he started with the Red Sox in 2002, trade deadline decisions and much more. You can listen to the full podcast here and subscribe on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Here are some other highlights: OHalloran on the new starting rotation and his impressions of the 2023 club so far: The starting was inconsistent for a while but theres plenty of talent in that rotation, OHalloran said. Obviously weve made some changes and have a group right now that we think can help stabilize that part of it and if they can keep us in games and give us good, consistent starting pitching, we feel pretty good about our chances. We like our offense and our bullpen has done a solid job as well. MORE FROM THE POD: Whats it like going from fan to becoming GM? Brian OHalloran knows (Podcast) On the biggest misperception of his boss, chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom: I think I have a general understanding of some of those narratives, OHalloran said. I think people think that its all numbers on a spreadsheet and its a computer algorithm system that spits out what to do, that is definitely a misperception. Chaim has been in the game a long time, values scouting, traditional coaching but of course values all the information and use all the tools at our disposal to make the decisions I think Chaim is very comfortable and has spent a lot of time in clubhouses, interacts really well with players, coaches and managers and really all the folks you have to interact with and work with in these type of jobs. Hes a well-rounded guy, and I think he probably doesnt get painted as quite as well-rounded he is in reality. WHA Resolution formally recognizes the vital role of diagnostics in delivering health for all, enabling countries to prioritize the resources needed to ensure everyone who needs a test can get one; A country-led International Alliance for Diagnostics will be formed to support implementation of the Resolution; Adoption of the Resolution coincides with FIND (www.FINDdx.org) marking its 20th anniversary. At the 76th World Health Assembly last week, Member States voted to adopt a Resolution on strengthening diagnostics capacity , following a recommendation from the World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board on 1 February 2023. The WHA Resolution is an historic milestone on the path to health for all, enabling countries to prioritize the systems and resources needed to ensure everyone who needs a test can get one wherever and whenever they seek care, in a hospital, at a clinic, or at home through self-tests. The Resolution ranges widely, covering testing for infectious and non-communicable diseases and health conditions, for pandemic prevention and preparedness, and to combat antimicrobial resistance. The Resolution also recognizes the need for national diagnostics strategies to be put in place, and acknowledges that diagnostic data are critical to inform healthcare decision-making at every level. The Resolution builds on recommendations from the 2021 Lancet Commission on diagnostics (https://DiagnosticsCommission.org/), chaired by Dr Kenneth Fleming. Negotiations were led by Eswatini on behalf of the Member States of the African Region. Indonesia was also a champion, building on their commitment earlier this year to improving access to essential diagnostic tests, as well as spotlighting diagnostics as part of their G20 agenda when they held the Presidency last year. The G20 Presidency passed to India at the end of 2022, and India has continued to keep testing central to the political health agenda (https://apo-opa.info/3N0xGfK). To support the implementation of the Resolution, and to align with global goals for universal health coverage (UHC) and global health security, the Lancet Commission also identified the need for a formal, country-led, International Alliance for Diagnostics, with a focus on primary care, as a coordinated mechanism to drive access to testing. On the side-lines of the WHA, leaders from Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia, met alongside WHO, PAHO, Africa CDC, FIND, and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and agreed unanimously on the path forward for an International Diagnostics Alliance. As WHO establishes a strategy and plan for implementing the terms of the Resolution, a series of regional consultations will be convened in Africa, Asia, and Latin America before the end of this year to define the structure and governance for the Alliance. The adoption of the Resolution on diagnostics comes as FIND enters its 20th anniversary year, having been founded at the World Health Assembly in 2003. To mark the moment, FIND hosted a Diagnostics Day on 24 May alongside the WHA, at which FIND Chair Dr Ayoade Alakija, FIND CEO Dr Bill Rodriguez, and FIND senior staff were joined by experts in the field of global health, including (in alphabetical order): Dr Alexandre Costa, Senior Health Advisor, UNICEF Dr Ngozi Erondu, Technical Director, GLIDE Dr Marcos Espinal, Acting Assistant Director, Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Dr Kenneth Fleming, Chair, The Lancet Commission on diagnostics Dr Nyane Letsie, Director General Health Services, Ministry of Health Lesotho Dr Heulwen Philpot, Head of the International Pandemic Preparedness Secretariat Bawelile Philomena Sibili Simelane, Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini and lead negotiator of the WHA Resolution on diagnostics Professor Dr Woo Yin Ling, Co-founder of the ROSE Foundation Dr Howard Zucker, Deputy Director for Global Health, US CDC The sessions were recorded and can be viewed on the FIND website here (https://apo-opa.info/3IM3fHr). Bill Rodriguez, FIND CEO, said at the Diagnostics Day event: COVID-19 showed all of us that testing matters, and that testing requires the right diagnostic tools, trained health workers, laboratory infrastructure, data management systems, policies, and resources to be in place. Without the ability to test, not only are individuals and communities gravely affected, but economic and social catastrophe can follow. But while most of us have only just experienced what lack of testing means, prior to the pandemic four billion of the worlds poorest people those with the least power were already facing personal economic, and social catastrophe, without access to tests for tuberculosis, cervical cancer, Chagas disease, and many others. This is what the WHA Resolution on diagnostics addresses, and why it is so fundamental to improving health across the world. Articles similaires In medicine, the use of computer-aided detection (CAD) software is becoming increasingly common. CAD programs are a collection of algorithms that employ a pattern recognition approach to aid in the interpretation of medical images for doctors. The volume of image data that needs to be analyzed is expected to rise as the number of patients who choose diagnostic imaging techniques rises. Its an analysis tool for diagnostics that helps doctors catch mistakes before they cause harm. The use of imaging modalities like X-rays, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, ultrasound imaging, and computed tomography aids in the diagnosis of many diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, coronary artery disease, and neurological diseases. Cancer, heart disease, and neurological disease mortality rates can all be lowered thanks to its use in early detection. Increasing number of patients opting for diagnostic imaging techniques is expected to propel the volume of image data to be analyzed. It is a diagnostic analysis technology, which assists physicians in reducing detection errors. CAD software is helpful in diagnosis of several diseases, such as cancer, coronary artery disease, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological diseases through imaging modalities, such as X-Rays imaging, Magnetic Resonance Imaging ultrasound imaging, and computed tomography. Get Exclusive Sample PDF Copy of the Report @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/761 The growth of the computer-aided detection market is expected to be driven by the rising incidence of chronic diseases The demand in the CAD market is being driven by the rising popularity of cancer screenings and other preventative health measures. The efficiency and effectiveness of CAD solutions have been greatly improved by the advent of modern digital imaging techniques. Early detection of chronic diseases is being aided by the ease with which different imaging equipment can be integrated. It can be used in clinical settings and scientific study. The growing popularity of international medical travel is also contributing to CADs rising popularity. The CAD market is expanding because of the rising popularity of health insurance, which in turn necessitates the screening of prospective policyholders for chronic diseases. Growth prospects exist due to massive investments in computer aided detection with 3D imaging research and development. One obstacle to the expansion of the CAD market is the high price of the technology. The market for computer-aided detection has been broken down into segments based on factors such as use case, target audience, and imaging technology Based on the application, the market growth for computer aided detection in healthcare market can be divided as: Lung cancer Liver cancer Breast cancer Prostate cancer Bone cancer Colorectal cancer Others (Cardiovascular and Neurological Indications etc.) The rising prevalence of breast cancer has led to a rise in demand for computer-aided detection solutions in the field of breast cancer. Women worldwide have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO). Based on the imaging modalities, the market growth of the Computer Aided Detection market can be divided as Ultrasound imaging Tomosynthesis Mammography Magnetic resonance imaging Computed tomography Reading mammographic films for breast cancer screening is becoming increasingly popular. As a result, this sector is anticipated to be one of the fastest growing during the forecast period. Based on the End Users, the market growth of the Computer Aided Detection in healthcare market can be divided as Hospitals Diagnostic centers Research centers Based on the end users, due to rising cancer rates, hospitals account for a disproportionately large portion of the computer aided detection market, Direct Buy This Premium Research Report: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/761 Regions North America Latin America Asia Pacific Middle east Europe Africa As a result of widespread use of CAD in cancer diagnosis, the market for computer-aided detection is largest in North America. As a result of the size of its breast cancer market, Europe is expected to be the worlds second largest. Due to rising patient awareness and government-led promotional campaigns emphasizing the importance of early detection of chronic diseases, the Asia-Pacific region is also expanding and will soon emerge as promising new markets. Due to a lack of developed infrastructure and an educated populace, Africa and the Middle East are responsible for a disproportionately small share of the global CAD market. Computer aided detection market consolidation among new players GE Healthcare, Philips Healthcare, Hologic,Inc., Inc. iCAD, Agfa-Gevaert N.V., EDDA Technology, Fujifilm Medical System, Invivo Corporation, Hitachi Medical Corporation, and Siemens Healthineers are all major players in the global computer aided detection market. GE Healthcares Senographe Pristina Dueta, the first patient-assisted mammography device that puts the power of compression in the hands of the patient herself, recently received FDA clearance. GE Healthcare has made significant changes to the mammography process in order to make the examination less painful. As an innovative method of treating cancer, proton therapy is something that Philips Healthcare is partnering with IBA (ION Beam Applications SA) of Belgium to bring to India. Valuable Points for this Research Report: Significant changes in Market dynamics. Reporting and assessment of recent industry developments. A complete background analysis, which includes a valuation of the parental Computer Aided Detection Market. Current, Historical, and projected size of the Computer Aided Detection Market from the viewpoint of both value and volume. Computer Aided Detection Market segmentation according to Top Regions. Computer Aided Detection Market shares and strategies of key Manufacturers. Emerging Specific segments and regional for Computer Aided Detection Market. An objective valuation of the trajectory of the Market. Recommendations to Top Companies for reinforcement of their foothold in the market. Table of Contents with Major Points: Executive Summary Introduction Key Findings Recommendations Definitions and Assumptions Executive Summary Market Overview Definition of Computer Aided Detection Market Market Dynamics Drivers Restraints Opportunities Trends and Developments Key Insights Key Emerging Trends Key Developments Mergers and Acquisition New Product Launches and Collaboration Partnership and Joint Venture Latest Technological Advancements Insights on Regulatory Scenario Porters Five Forces Analysis Qualitative Insights Impact of COVID-19 on Global Computer Aided Detection Market Supply Chain Challenges Steps taken by Government/Companies to overcome this impact Potential opportunities due to COVID-19 outbreak Conclusion Appendix Data Sources Abbreviations Disclaimer TOC Continued! Request for Enquiry or Customization @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/761 Explore More Report: Us computer aided detection cad market Patient centered medical home market Artificial intelligence in digital genome market Europe and israel mobile applications for melanoma detection market Healthcare erp market Hospital capacity management systems market Green hospitals market Us home healthcare market Brain computer interface market At a CAGR of 7.2% between 2022 and 2028, the global market for live cell imaging is anticipated to grow from 2021s valuation of US$ 1,801.9 Mn to 2028s valuation of US$ 2,921.9 Mn. Live cell imaging is the study of cellular structure and function in living cells via microscopy. It is used to obtain a better understanding of biological function through the study of cellular dynamics. Live cell imaging is an important analytical tool used in laboratories to study biomedical research disciplines, such as neurobiology, pharmacology, cell biology, and developmental biology. Rising disease prevalence and an expanding elderly population are driving significant expansion in the market for live cell imaging worldwide. An increase in the use of high-content screening methods in the pharmaceutical industry is also anticipated to fuel market expansion. However, the live cell imaging market is anticipated to be slowed by factors like the high price of high-content screening systems and a lack of skilled professionals. Get Exclusive Sample PDF Copy of the Report @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/1081 Market for live cell imaging worldwide: Regional Insights North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa make up the five main regional submarkets of the market for live cell imaging worldwide. Because cancer is becoming increasingly common in North America, particularly the United States, the region is projected to increase its market share at a faster rate than any other region during the forecast period. With the growing number of cancer cases in America, more researchers are turning to live cell imaging. To give just one example, the American Cancer Society predicts that in 2022 there will be a projected 1.9 Mn new cases of cancer diagnosed and 609,360 cancer-related deaths in the United States. The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases (such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and cardiac diseases) and the subsequent increase in government funding are also expected to fuel rapid expansion of the market for live cell imaging worldwide in Europe. Research in cell and developmental biology is receiving an increasing amount of funding from organizations like Cancer Research UK and the Wellcome Trust. More people have access to the technology thanks to efforts by universities and private research institutes. Market for live cell imaging worldwide Drivers Over the forecast period, the market for live cell imaging worldwide is anticipated to grow due to the rising incidence of chronic diseases such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular disease. Due to the rising prevalence of chronic diseases and the corresponding need for rapid diagnostic methods, there has been a surge in interest in live cell imaging. The leading causes of death and disability in the United States, and a major factor in rising health care costs, are chronic diseases, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that six out of ten Americans have at least one chronic disease. During the predicted time period, the market for live cell imaging worldwide is anticipated to grow thanks to an increase in the development and adoption of live cell imaging systems. For example, in May of 2020, CytoSMART Technologies announced the release of their new live-cell imaging system. Those conducting immediate, side-by-side comparisons of cell cultures will find the CytoSMART Lux2 Duo Kit to be a simple, cost-effective solution. Market for live cell imaging worldwide: Opportunities Participants in the live cell imaging market can anticipate significant growth opportunities due to the increasing use of live cell imaging in personalized medicines. For instance, Screen Holdings Co., Ltd. and PHC Corporation of North America entered into a partnership in September 2021 to distribute the Screen Cell imager series of live cell imaging systems across North America. Useful in cellular research, drug discovery, cosmetics, and biopharmaceuticals, incredibly precise non-invasive imaging of organoids and spheroids is now possible with the help of state-of-the-art imaging instruments. Participants in the market for live cell imaging worldwide can anticipate significant growth opportunities as the demand for live cell imaging continues to rise. Metabolic engineers, for instance, are using live-cell microscopy imaging to investigate molecular dynamics in industrial microbes, as detailed in a study published in Trends in Biotechnology (Journal) in November 2021. More possibilities for live cell imaging will arise as a result of this. Market for live cell imaging worldwide: Key Companies Insights As a global industry, live cell imaging is fiercely competitive. This is due to the fact that high-content screening methods are becoming increasingly popular for use in the drug discovery process, and as a result, industry leaders are concentrating on the introduction of cutting-edge methods. Thermo Fisher Scientific, Merck KgaA, PerkinElmer, Inc., Nikon Instruments, Inc., Live Cell Instrument, Olympus, Danaher, CytoSMART Technologies, ZEISS Group, Becton, Dickinson & Company, and ZEISS Group are just some of the major players in the market for live cell imaging worldwide. Direct Buy This Premium Research Report: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/1081 Market for live cell imaging worldwide:Trends The global ageing population is anticipated to be a major driver of the live cell imaging market. Cancer, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular disease are just a few examples of chronic illnesses that need more attention as our population ages. The percentage of the worlds population that is 65 or older is projected to rise from 9.3 percent in 2020 to roughly 16.0 percent in 2050, according to the United Nations. The live cell imaging market is predicted to expand as a result of the rising development of novel standalone systems. The CytoSMART Omni FL, developed by CytoSMART Technologies and released in April 2022, is a cutting-edge live-cell imaging analysis system that adds red and green fluorescence channels to the companys flagship CytoSMART Omni product line. Market for live cell imaging worldwide: Restraints The global market for live cell imaging is anticipated to grow slowly due to a lack of qualified professionals. To fully grasp the potential of live cell imaging technology for studying cellular processes, one needs the expertise of trained experts. Thus, the lack of trained experts is likely to stifle the expansion of the global market for live cell imaging. The global market for live cell imaging is anticipated to grow slowly due to the expensive nature of high-content screening systems. High-content screening systems (HCS) are expensive because they have sophisticated cell imaging and analysis features and functionalities. The price tag on a confocal microscope can easily exceed $200,000. HCS uses a GE Healthcare In-Cell 2000 Analyzer system, which can run you about $240,000. Market for live cell imaging worldwide: Segmentation The report on the global market for live cell imaging is broken down into those three sections: Product, Application, and Region. The market is broken down into submarkets for hardware, consumables, and software and services. As a result of the increasing demand for standalone systems, the live cell imaging equipment market is predicted to grow at a faster rate than any other segment during the forecast period. What we call standalone systems are pieces of hardware that dont need to be connected to or part of anything else in order to do their job. It is anticipated that technological developments in live cell imaging software and services will lead to significant expansion of the software and services market over the forecast period. Several companies in the market offer high-end cellular imaging and analysis software for users to acquire, visualize, analyze, and share image data more quickly and easily, allowing them to devote more time to the search process. Cell Biology, Stem Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Drug Discovery, and Other Applications are some of the submarkets that make up this market. As more scientists investigate molecular interaction networks, the Cell Biology Segment is poised to become the industry leader in this area. Live cell imaging is used by cell biologists to deduce basic cellular structures and their interactions at the tissue level. The use of live cell imaging to watch cells develop and learn about their physiological state bodes well for the future of the developmental biology subsector. Researchers in the field of developmental biology are afforded a unique window into cell division and growth as they observe embryonic development. Market for live cell imaging worldwide: Key Developments It was announced in July 2021 that Becton, Dickinson and Company would be launching their bdbiosciences.com web and e-commerce site, a digital marketplace designed to improve the convenience of online purchasing of BD research solutions such as clinical and single-cell multiomic products. The Micro-mirror Array Lens System (MALS) in the ZEISS Visioner 1 digital microscope enables real-time, all-in-one focus, streamlining the imaging process, and increasing throughput, all of which were announced for release in January 2021 by ZEISS GROUP. The bright field live cell imaging system CytoSMART Lux3 BR was introduced by CytoSMART Technologies in August 2021. Designed for label-free live-cell imaging, this compact bright field microscope features a high-resolution CMOS camera (6.4 megapixels). Request for Enquiry or Customization @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/1081 Table of Contents with Major Points: Executive Summary Introduction Key Findings Recommendations Definitions and Assumptions Executive Summary Market Overview Definition of Live Cell Imaging Market Market Dynamics Drivers Restraints Opportunities Trends and Developments Key Insights Key Emerging Trends Key Developments Mergers and Acquisition New Product Launches and Collaboration Partnership and Joint Venture Latest Technological Advancements Insights on Regulatory Scenario Porters Five Forces Analysis Qualitative Insights Impact of COVID-19 on Global Live Cell Imaging Market Supply Chain Challenges Steps taken by Government/Companies to overcome this impact Potential opportunities due to COVID-19 outbreak Conclusion Appendix Data Sources Abbreviations Disclaimer TOC Continued! Explore More Report: Orthopedic imaging market Us imaging services market Veterinary diagnostic imaging market Intraoperative imaging market Small animal imaging market Portable ultrasound bladder scanner market Breast imaging market Molecular imaging market Mediapool , , , , . , Mediapool.bg . Mediapool.bg by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, May 31, 2023 In a race to dominate the artificial intelligence space, Chinese search engine company Baidu on Wednesday said it will create a venture capital fund of $145 million (1 billion yuan) to back start-ups focused on content generated by AI applications. The financial backing will provide a springboard to a competition for developers that will help them build applications based on its Ernie large language model (LLM) or integrate the model into their existing products. Baidu in January said it would launch a GPT-style technology and merge it into its search engines. Then in March the company unveiled Ernie, an AI-powered large language model (LLM). Other Chinese companies quickly followed, such as ecommerce giant Alibaba Group Holding. advertisement advertisement Chinese leader Xi Jinping last month urged the countrys companies to seize opportunities in AI to modernize the industry at an economic meeting. Jinpings strategic prioritization of AI development in Chinas race to become the worlds dominant AI player dates back to 2017, when China's State Council issued a document titled A Next Generation Artificial Intelligence Development Plan. The document, translated into English, outlines a top-level design blueprint charting the country's approach to developing artificial intelligence (AI) technology and applications, setting broad goals up to 2030. The goal is to create concrete plans for major AI tasks and focus policy measures. Support the development of a variety of AI scientific activities, encourage the broad masses of scientific and technological workers to join the promotion of AI popular science, and 27 comprehensively improve the level of the whole society on the application of AI, the document states. Companies also are encouraged to launch trials, strengthen comprehensive guidance over trials and demonstrations in all departments and all localities, quickly summarize and disseminate replicable experiences and methods. Advance the healthy and orderly development of AI through advance trials and guiding demonstrations. The document, which provides details about the transition for the country, was translated into English by a group of experienced Chinese linguists with extensive backgrounds on the subject matter, including Rogier Creemers, Leiden Asia Centre; Graham Webster, Yale Law School Paul Tsai China Center; Paul Triolo, Eurasia Group; and Elsa Kania. Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) Press release HRCP insists on civilian supremacy in ongoing political crisis Islamabad, 31 May 2023. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) warns all political stakeholders that, unless they desist from any further measures that could imperil the countrys fragile democracy, they may find themselves unable to steer the country safely through the multiple crises it is facing. HRCP has closely monitored the ongoing political crisis and notes with great alarm that civilian supremacy has emerged as the greatest casualty. The governments inabilityor unwillingnessto safeguard civilian supremacy or to preserve the dignity of Parliament has proven tremendously disappointing. At the same time, the political oppositions history of hostile politics and contempt for the rule of law has played no small part in triggering the wanton destruction of property during 910 May. These were not peaceful protests. The evidence points to acts of arson, rioting, looting, vandalism and trespass onto state and private property. The judiciary too has been found wanting, its unity and nonpartisanship compromised, with serious implications for the trichotomy of powers. HRCP regrets that the failure of the judiciary to credibly maintain its independence and impartiality has exacerbated the rule-of-law crisis in the country. While many allegations of violence and custodial torture against political workers and PTI supportersincluding women and minorshave yet to be verified, all such allegations merit independent investigation. HRCP reminds the authorities that torture or any form of degrading treatment of persons in custody are serious violations of human rights. The disappearance of at least two journalists must also be investigated in a transparent manner, the findings made public and the perpetrators held strictly to account. Of particular concern is the governments decision to try civilians under the Pakistan Army Act 1952. While those responsible for the destruction of public and private property must undoubtedly be held accountable, there is ample provision in civilian laws for this. Any government seriously committed to upholding civilian supremacy would strongly consider repealing Article 2(1)(d) of the Act, which allows civilians to be tried in military courts, thereby denying them their constitutional right to a fair trial. HRCP also objects to the arbitrary manner in which certain cases are selected to be tried by military courts, thereby violating the principle of equality before the law and equal protection of the law. While all political parties must adhere to democratic, peaceful and bona fide means to further their political agendas, HRCP sees no benefit to Pakistans polity in banning a political party. We consider any step by the government to ban the PTI both reckless and disproportionate. In the long term, it would strengthen a bad precedent and prevent political parties from developing naturally in line with the wishes of their electorate. HRCP insists that, under no circumstances should national elections be delayed beyond October 2023. Such a step by the government would amount to derailing the democratic process and compound the current political instability. Anything less than free, fair and credible elections in an environment that allows the exercise of all fundamental freedoms, will leave the country open to further ill-judged and undemocratic political experiments. Above all, HRCP is deeply concerned by the rapid pace at which nonpolitical forces are wresting the space for which Pakistani civil society has fought long and hard. The democracy that Pakistans people want and deserve cannot be built on fluid loyalties and shifting narratives. HRCP opposed what it saw as political engineering in the 2018 elections, but it objects just as strongly to the tactics employed in the attempt to reverse-engineer the democratic process. Hina Jilani Chairperson This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate LOS ANGELES (AP) That '70s Show star Danny Masterson was led out in handcuffs from a Los Angeles courtroom Wednesday and could get 30 years to life in prison after a jury found him guilty on two of three counts of rape at his second trial, in which the Church of Scientology played a central role. Masterson's wife, actor and model Bijou Phillips, gasped when the verdict was read and wept as he was taken into custody, while a group of family and friends who sat stone-faced behind him throughout both trials. The jury of seven women and five men reached the verdict after deliberating for seven days spread over two weeks. They could not reach a verdict on the third count, that alleged Masterson raped a longtime girlfriend. They had voted 8-4 in favor of conviction. Masterson, 47, will be held without bail until he is sentenced. No sentencing date was set. I am experiencing a complex array of emotions relief, exhaustion, strength, sadness knowing that my abuser, Danny Masterson, will face accountability for his criminal behavior, one of the women, whom Masterson knew as a fellow member of the church and was convicted of raping at his home in 2003, said in a statement. A second woman, a former girlfriend, whose count left the jury deadlocked, said in the statement: While Im encouraged that Danny Masterson will face some criminal punishment, I am devastated that he has dodged criminal accountability for his heinous conduct against me. A spokesperson for Masterson declined to comment, but his attorneys will almost certainly appeal. After a deadlocked jury led to a mistrial in December, prosecutors retried Masterson, saying he drugged and forcibly raped three women in his Hollywood Hills home between 2001 and 2003. They said he used his prominence in the church where all three women were also members at the time to avoid consequences for decades. We want to express our gratitude to the three women who came forward and bravely shared their experiences," Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon said in a statement after the verdict Wednesday. Masterson did not testify, and his lawyers called no witnesses. The defense argued that the acts were consensual, and attempted to discredit the womens stories by highlighting changes and inconsistencies over time, which they said showed signs of coordination between them. If you decide that a witness deliberately lied about something in this case, defense attorney Philip Cohen told jurors, going through their instructions in his closing argument, You should consider not believing anything that witness says. The Church of Scientology played a significant role in the first trial but arguably an even larger one in the second. Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo allowed expert testimony on church policy from a former official in Scientology leadership who has become a prominent opponent. The church said in a statement after the verdict that the introduction of religion into this trial was an unprecedented violation of the First Amendment and affects the due process rights of every American. The Church was not a party to this case and religion did not belong in this proceeding as Supreme Court precedent has maintained for centuries. Tensions ran high in the courtroom between current and former Scientologists, and even leaked into testimony, with the accusers saying on the stand that they felt intimidated by some members in the room. Actor Leah Remini, a former member who has become the churchs highest-profile critic, sat in on the trial at times, putting her arm around one of the accusers to comfort her during closing arguments. Remini said on Twitter that the two guilty verdicts in the retrial are a relief. The women who survived Danny Mastersons predation are heroes. For years, they and their families have faced vicious attacks and harassment from Scientology and Dannys well-funded legal team," she posted. "Nevertheless, they soldiered on, determined to seek justice. The alleged harassment is the subject of a civil lawsuit filed by two of the accusers. The Scientology statement said there is not a scintilla of evidence supporting the scandalous allegations that the Church harassed the accusers. Founded in 1953 by L. Ron Hubbard, the Church of Scientology has many members who work in Hollywood. The judge kept limits on how much prosecutors could talk about the church, and primarily allowed it to explain why the women took so long to go to authorities. The women testified that when they reported Masterson to church officials, they were told they were not raped, were put through ethics programs themselves, and were warned against going to law enforcement to report a member of such high standing. They were raped, they were punished for it, and they were retaliated against, Deputy District Attorney Reinhold Mueller told jurors in his closing argument. Scientology told them theres no justice for them. The church called the testimony and descriptions of Scientology beliefs during the trial uniformly false. The Church has no policy prohibiting or discouraging members from reporting criminal conduct of anyone Scientologists or not to law enforcement, the statement said. Next week Olmedo will hold a hearing to determine how a lawyer who represents the Church of Scientology had evidence that the prosecution had shared with the defense. The evidence involved links that the lawyer accidentally included in an email to Mueller. The Associated Press does not typically name people who say theyve been sexually abused. Testimony in this case was graphic and emotional. The two women whose testimony led to Masterson's conviction said that in 2003, he gave them drinks and that they then became woozy or passed out before he violently raped them. The third, Mastersons then-girlfriend of five years whose count left the jury deadlocked, said she awoke to find him raping her, and had to pull his hair to stop him. Olmedo allowed prosecutors and accusers to say directly in the second trial that Masterson drugged the women, while only allowing the women to describe their condition in the first trial. Masterson was not charged with any counts of drugging, and there was no toxicology evidence to back up the assertion. The charges dated to a period when Masterson was at the height of his fame, starring from 1998 until 2006 as Steven Hyde on Foxs That 70s Show the show that made stars of Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis and Topher Grace. Masterson had reunited with Kutcher on the 2016 Netflix comedy The Ranch, but was written off the show when an LAPD investigation was revealed in December 2017. PALM BAY, Fla. (AP) An 11-month-old baby died after being left alone in a hot car while her parents were inside a church for services along Florida's Space Coast, authorities said. The baby girl had been in the car outside the storefront church in Palm Bay, Florida, where her parents are pastors, for three hours Sunday when she was discovered and rushed to a nearby hospital where she was pronounced dead, authorities said. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 Submitted photo/Cathy Geiger, ABC Greater Michigan Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Submitted photo/Cathy Geiger, ABC Greater Michigan Show More Show Less 3 of 3 Associated Builders and Contractors Greater Michigan Chapter encourages all to get involved with its community and pay it forward. This was evident on May 23 when its Emerging Professionals, ABC members and staff joined the Midland County Habitat for Humanity on the home located at 2036 Crescent St. in Sanford. The Greater Michigan Construction Academy and Habitat for Humanity of Midland have a wonderful partnership and ABC is happy to be the first group to volunteer our time in making this house a home for a local family, said Cathy Geiger, director of marketing and community affairs at ABC Greater Michigan. ABC encourages its future leaders to be involved with activities like this. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) Nikki Haley's husband will soon begin a yearlong deployment with the South Carolina Army National Guard to Africa, a mission that will encompass most of the remainder of his wife's campaign for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. A formal deployment ceremony will likely happen in the next few weeks, Maj. Karla N. Evans with the National Guard told The Associated Press on Wednesday. Michael Haley will be deployed as a staff officer with his unit, which will be at the core of" a task force that supports the U.S. Africa Command, Evans said, replacing a unit from a different state as part of a regular rotation of forces. It will be Michael Haley's second active-duty deployment since he joined the Guard as an officer in 2006. Nikki Haley, a former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor, has been highly critical of President Joe Biden's competency as commander in chief as she campaigns for the GOP nomination. She has spoken out against his administration's efforts to expand diversity in the military, complaining they were weakening the force and hampering recruitment, though the Army has said that the real problem is that many young people do not see enlistment as safe or a good career path. She has also pledged to make cuts in $46 billion in foreign aid to countries she says hate America. While not directly confirming the deployment, Haley said in a statement to the AP that her family is ready to make personal sacrifices when our loved one answers the call. We could not be prouder of Michael and his military brothers and sisters, she added. Michael Haley, the candidate's husband of 26 years, has been a constant at his wife's campaign events since she became a White House candidate. She frequently mentions her status as a military wife. He made his first overseas deployment in January 2013, when his wife was midway through her first term as governor, and their children were age 10 and 14. He left me as a single mom governor, but were still married, Haley said of her husband during a recent campaign appearance in Greer, South Carolina. She went on to critique the Biden administrations chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. Returning from his 2013 deployment just before Christmas of that year, Michael Haley told the AP that his unit worked as part of an agricultural support team, helping Afghan famers turn from growing opium to growing other crops profitable enough to sustain their communities. At the time, his commander, Lt. Col. Todd Shealy, acknowledged there is always some danger when an individual in the public eye serves as a soldier in a combat region. It does make him more of a target, Shealy said of Haley. But there are some particular things to do to minimize that threat, he added, pointedly not defining what they might be. Asked Wednesday about any additional security measures taken while Michael Haley is in Africa, Evans said he would be afforded the same security as every other Soldier. ___ Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP CANBERRA, Australia (AP) The United States has warned that allegations of war crimes against Australian soldiers in Afghanistan could prevent U.S. forces from working with Australias Special Air Service Regiment, Australias defense force chief said on Wednesday. Gen. Angus Campbell told a Senate committee that he received a letter from the U.S. defense attache in Canberra in March 2021 suggesting the elite SAS may have been tainted by the allegations of war crimes in Afghanistan raised in an Australian war crime investigation report that was made public in 2000. Campbell said one individual had his posted position adjusted following the letter. The letter warned that the Brereton report, which detailed credible information that Australian soldiers had unlawfully killed 39 Afghan prisoners and civilians, could trigger a U.S. law that prevents the countrys military working with units linked to gross violations of human rights. I received a letter from the defense attache of the United States Armed Forces based in Canberra, to me, indicating that the release of the Brereton report and its findings may initiate Leahy Law considerations, Campbell said. Campbell said he did not believe he informed the defense minister at the time and had not informed the current defense minister, Richard Marles. Campbell was quizzed by senators on why he had not advised successive governments about such a letter from Australias most important security treaty partner. Independent Senator Jacqi Lambie asked whether the government should have been advised of such a pretty big matter. Campbell replied: I think theres a difference between may and does. So the defense attache was indicating that it may, rather than it does. Campbell later corrected himself, telling the Senate committee that records showed he had informed the previous government's defense minister in 2021. The U.S. never applied Leahy Law restrictions to the Australian military and 12 months after the letter marked the conclusion of the issue, Campbell said. Marles' office confirmed that the current defense minister, whose government came to power in elections in May last year, had not been briefed on the issue. Marles "is briefed on matters relating to his portfolio as they arise and as is appropriate, his office said in a statement. Police in March charged the first Australian veteran for an alleged killing in Afghanistan, three years after the Brereton investigation found that 19 Australian special forces soldiers could face charges for illegal conduct during the conflict. Former SAS trooper Oliver Schulz, 41, was charged with the war crime of murder in the death of an Afghan who was shot in 2012 in a wheat field in Uruzgan province. A Federal Court judge will rule on Thursday in a defamation case brought by Australias most decorated living war veteran, Victoria Cross recipient and former SAS trooper Ben Roberts-Smith, against three Australian newspapers that he alleges depicted him as a criminal who broke the moral and legal rules of military engagement in Afghanistan. Police are working with the Office of the Special Investigator, an Australian investigation agency established in 2021, to build cases against elite SAS and Commando Regiment troops who served in Afghanistan between 2005 and 2016. More than 39,000 Australian military personnel served in Afghanistan over 20 years until the 2021 withdrawal, and 41 were killed there. BERLIN (AP) The German government said Wednesday that it has told Russia to close four out of its five consulates general in Germany in a tit-for-tat move after Moscow set a limit for the number of staff at the German Embassy and related bodies in Russia. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Christofer Burger told reporters in Berlin that the measure was intended to create a parity of personnel and structures between the two countries. Russia has consulates in Bonn, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Leipzig and Munich, with Moscow deciding which four they will close and which one they will keep open. The Russian government recently said that an upper limit of 350 German government officials, including those working in cultural bodies and schools, can remain in Russia. Burger said that this means Germany will have to shut its consulates in Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk and Kaliningrad by November. Only the embassy in Moscow and the consulate in St. Petersburg will remain open, he said. He said that Russia will be allowed to continue operating the embassy in Berlin and one further consulate after the end of the year. The move reflects a new low in relations between Moscow and Berlin since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Burger said that the move was regrettable, but added that the war meant there was simply no basis for numerous bilateral activities between the two countries anymore. But it is the behavior of the Russian side that has brought us into this situation, he said. Burger said Germany's decision to concentrate its remaining staff in the embassy and a key consulate will preserve the diplomatic presence in Russia. After all the Memorial Day activities are over and another year of remembrance has slipped into the twilight of the end of May, there is another day that is remembered in the fight for freedom and deliverance from oppression. I was scanning the horizon while sitting in Veterans Park in Port Austin. Everywhere I gazed I saw waves rolling onto the shore. Watching sea gulls and geese bob up and down in the water brought images to my mind of the film clips I had seen of D-Day, June 6, 1944, known by its code name, Operation Overlord. The bobbing gulls and geese reminded me of the men and machinery that came ashore in boats, desperately trying to advance to reach the areas assigned to them. Almost 80 years have passed since that fateful day. Now the waters are still, the beaches are quiet, and many today would never know what occurred on Normandys beach head so long ago. There have been many D-days in our wars. The term was first used in WWI. There is a bit of a debate over what the D stands for, as some say the D just stands for the word day. Others have theorized it means debarkation, disembarkation, day of decision, and even General Eisenhower replied to the question as to what the letter D stood for. He believed it referred to the word departed. I have always felt like it should mean deliverance, as that is why wars are usually fought. They are fought for the deliverance of people, cities, countries, and continents that are trapped by an oppressor whos goal is to take away the freedoms of the people. On June 6, 1944, the deliverers were American, Canadian, and British soldiers. As I kept watching the waves, the word deliverance kept rolling through my mind just like waves kept rolling onto the shore. Sometimes you come across a situation where deliverance is needed, but it is not in plain sight. It is hidden away. In Perryville, Missouri there is a cave system by the name of Tom Moore. Gerry Keene was exploring the cave system with some others when he was told there was a dog in front of them. As they approached the area, there lay a curled up dog on the muddy floor of the cave. The poor lost soul lifted her head at the sight of people but never made any attempt to get up or move. Mr. Keene apparently snapped a photo of the dog and went out the cave to see if any neighboring houses knew who the dog belonged to. The dogs owner became aware of the search and went to the cave entrance where Mr. Keene had returned to. The owner identified the dog in the picture, Abby, as his. She had been missing for two months. A rescue mission was planned with the aid of an assistant fire chief and another caver, Rick Haley. Mr. Haley figured out a method to get Abby out safely by using a duffle bag and a blanket. Mr. Keene and Mr. Haley finally reached Abby, who was understandable lethargic and in need of food. Seeing that Abby wasnt going to be able to do much walking, the duffle bag was set out with the blanket. Abby was able to move on top of them. Abby sat on top of the blanket in the duffle bag and then laid down. Abby must have felt safe, as it appeared she went to sleep during her journey out of the cave. Mr. Keene and Mr. Haley moved Abby a little at a time as they handed her over to each other as they inched their way out of the cave. With patience and persistence the rescue mission was completed in about one and a half hours. Abby had been delivered. She was able to smell the fresh air of freedom again. Abby went home with her owner, but I doubt she will ever forget her deliverers, Mr. Keene and Mr. Haley. How Abby made her way into the cave is a mystery, but many times we find ourselves in situations that we arent sure just how we got into them in the first place. All we know is that we need to be delivered from them. I knew a young man once who was a very intelligent, gifted, and goal oriented. Everyone saw a bright and promising future for him. Toward the end of his college days, he decided that he wanted to enjoy his last remaining semester being one of the boys. His parents saw changes in his behavior, but their concerns were brushed aside by their son. Late nights became the norm. Communication became almost nil. The parents attempts to help were rejected. He couldnt see what was happening to him. Eventually, he stopped speaking with his family until he was arrested. As he sat in his cell, he couldnt believe what had happened to him. The one question that kept echoing through his mind was, How did I get here? His once brilliant future now seemed nothing more than a faded dot. A chaplain stepped into the scene who became the one to help the young man be delivered from his past and brought him into the freedom of a new start in life. Like D-Day and many other battles that have been fought, we can visually see the need for deliverance for a nation, but sometimes the need for deliverance is hidden like Abby. Sometimes the person needing deliverance is blinded to their own needs. D-Day started the deliverance of thousands of people. Once discovered, Abby was delivered into freedom. The young man didnt see his need till he was in a jail cell, and a chaplain arrived. Deliverance comes in many ways, but it always comes from caring people. Will you be that caring person? STAMFORD A federal court ruling Tuesday opens the door for settlement of thousands of lawsuits against Purdue Pharma that allege it fueled the opioid crisis with deceptive marketing of its top-selling prescription drug, OxyContin a deal that will protect the company owners, members of the Sackler family, from future lawsuits. In return, the proposed settlement would provide $6 billion to fight opioid addiction and assist victims of the drug crisis. With its ruling, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit reversed a December 2021 decision by a district judge who found that a bankruptcy judge who approved Stamford-based Purdues settlement plan did not have the authority to grant protections from opioid-related lawsuits to the Sackler family members who own Purdue. The proposed legal safeguards for the Sacklers have long divided the parties involved in Purdues bankruptcy, which began in September 2019. The Sackler families believe the long-awaited implementation of this resolution is critical to providing substantial resources for people and communities in need, Sackler family members who own Purdue said in a statement Tuesday. We are pleased with the courts decision to allow the agreement to move forward and look forward to it taking effect as soon as possible. The latest version of Purdues settlement plan still needs to secure approval from a bankruptcy judge before it can be finalized. In total, Purdue values its plan at more than $10 billion. That amount factors in other components, including the development and distribution, by Purdue's planned successor company, of medicines to reverse opioid overdoses and treat opioid-use disorder that Purdue officials said could be worth several billion dollars. The Second Circuits ruling is a victory for Purdues creditors, including the states, local governments, and victims who overwhelmingly support the Plan of Reorganization, Purdue said in a statement. Our focus going forward is to deliver billions of dollars of value for victim compensation, opioid crisis abatement and overdose rescue medicines. Our creditors understand the plan is the best option to help those who need it most, the most fair and expeditious way to resolve the litigation, and the only way to deliver billions of dollars in value specifically to fund opioid crisis abatement efforts. Debate over legal protections for Sacklers For two-and-a-half years after Purdues filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, Connecticut and several other non-consenting states fervently opposed an agreement with the company. Among the signs of their discontent, they appealed a bankruptcy judges approval in September 2021 of Purdues settlement plan because they were unhappy with the terms proposed by the company and the Sacklers who own the firm. In addition to their dissatisfaction with the proposed payout of about $4.3 billion, Connecticut Attorney General William Tong and the other non-consenting states attorneys general had other objected. In particular, they criticized the approval by the bankruptcy judge, Robert Drain, of the plans stipulation for third-party releases that would have forced them to relinquish their claims against the Sacklers. The Sacklers, who did not personally file for bankruptcy, have denied allegations from Tong and other attorneys general that they have misused the bankruptcy process to shield themselves from liability. But after a wave of negotiations during the first two months of 2022, Connecticut and the other non-consenting states forged a deal with Purdue and the Sacklers that was announced in March 2022. The settlement amount increased to $6 billion. Approximately $95 million would be allocated to Connecticut, with those funds intended to support prevention and treatment initiatives. What this decision (from the Second Circuit) does not change is the fact that Connecticut led our sister states to a $6 billion settlement that will fund critical treatment and prevention efforts across the country, and will give direct relief to families of victims and survivors of addiction, Tong said in a statement Tuesday. Our settlement was both significant and imperfect there will never be enough justice to match the depths of pain and suffering the Sackler family caused. But we recognized that we had pushed this as far as we could, and that it was necessary to get communities, victims and their families the resolution and billions of dollars funding desperately needed to save lives and fight the opioid epidemic. As a result of the agreement that it joined last year, Connecticut did not participate in the appeal before the Second Circuit. But if Purdue's case were to come before the U.S. Supreme Court, Connecticut has reserved its right to continue its opposition to third-party releases, according to Tongs office. In July 2021, Tong testified before a Congressional committee in support of bankruptcy law reforms to close a loophole that he said the Sacklers were exploiting to evade accountability for their role in the opioid crisis. Purdue and the Sackler family destroyed thousands of lives in their relentless pursuit of profit. They cravenly sought to hide behind (the) countrys broken bankruptcy code to escape justice and shield their blood money, Tong added in his statement. The U.S. District Court refused billionaire wrongdoers the right to exploit our bankruptcy laws, and we will firmly stand behind that decision should this matter come before the U.S. Supreme Court. I believe Judge (Colleen) McMahon was right in the District Court. Non-consensual third-party releases (for the Sacklers) are wrong, and I believe the law should not, and does not permit them. But the Second Circuit decided otherwise. Today, the Department of Justice, through its bankruptcy-focused U.S. Trustee program, stands as the most-prominent holdout, among a tiny number of remaining opponents of the settlement plan. The Justice Department did not immediately say whether it would appeal Tuesday's ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court. A spokesperson declined comment Tuesday. The Justice Departments opposition and the uncertainty about the bankruptcys end point has upset many relatives of opioid victims and survivors of opioid addiction. They worry about further delays or even missing out entirely on the personal-injury funds that are included in the settlement plan. Eligible claimants would each receive between $3,500 and $48,000, for a total of up to $750 million. Im very angry. How can the Department of Justice just appeal this and let all of this time go by? Norwalk resident Dede Yoder, whose son died from an overdose of fentanyl and carfentanil at age 21 in 2017, after being prescribed OxyContin as a teenager, said in March. It doesnt make sense to me. It keeps adding insult to injury The longer it takes, it just makes it worse and worse. As Purdues bankruptcy carries on, Connecticut has already secured hundreds of millions of dollars from settlements with other companies implicated in the opioid epidemic. Those funds are being disbursed across varying multi-year timelines. other agreements, it will receive a total of about $300 million from pharmaceutical distributors Cardinal, McKesson and AmerisourceBergen, as well as drugmaker Johnson & Johnson. This article contains reporting from The Associated Press. A bill legislators say is intended to strengthen anti-discrimination laws is so vague it could be used to support pedophiles, according to one Christian family values organization. According to state Sen. Gary Winfield, D-New Haven, co-chair of the legislatures judiciary committee, the bill revises the states definition of sexual orientation to specify gender attraction. When you're talking about gender attraction, that has nothing to do with age, he said. A separate portion of the bill clarifies existing state law to include age as a basis for discrimination, but Winfield said the two sections are not related. That's not related to a sexual attraction, he said. So I just don't know how they made this crazy leap. The bill specifically defines sexual orientation as a person's identity in relation to the gender or genders to which they are romantically, emotionally or sexually attracted. Peter Wolfgang, executive director of the Family Institute of Connecticut, the bill is vague enough to allow interpretation on the basis of age. What's in the bill is identity in relation to the genders theyre attracted to and that's our concern is the vagueness of that language and how that could be interpreted in the future by some judge, he said. People who identify as minor-attracted persons, the MAPs themselves, they see themselves in that and they are organized. Without more precise language making this clearer that, no this doesn't open the door for minor-attracted persons somewhere down the line, you could have a ruling by a judge or ruling by an administrative agency saying that this law does include them, Wolfgang said. In a blog post about the bill on the organizations website, the FIC wrote that, Marriage is between a man and a woman. Male and female he created them. Laws that say otherwise undermine the very legitimacy of law itself. Winfield said Wolfgang and others are using the issue as a cultural wedge, and noted that sexual assault of children is a crime. . I don't even think it's a stretch, he said. I don't think you can read into the bill what they're suggesting. How someone gets there, I don't know. During a meeting with reporters Tuesday, Speaker of the House Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, said he was appalled that it's a problem for anybody in this building. According to the organization's website, the vision of the Family Institute of Connecticut is to see citizens, institutions and government acknowledge and encourage the vital role of the family and to once again see the Judeo-Christian principles that are articulated in the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution re-employed in our society and its public policy. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate The state Port Authority is planning to request an additional $30 million in bonding to complete the state pier project, pushing the total cost to $300 million. The goal of the state pier project is to upgrade the facility to accommodate a wind power hub servicing offshore wind farms that would bring power to Connecticut and the region. The project was originally supposed to cost $93 million, but costs had already ballooned to $255.5 million before the state Port Authority voted Tuesday to ask the state for an additional $30 million. Of that $255.5 million, $77.5 million has been borne by Eversource and rsted, the power companies that will run the windfarms and pier once they are built. That $77.5 million contribution will increase by $23.75 million, a bit more than half of the additional $47 million cost of the project. The Port Authority will request the other half, $23.5 million, plus a $6 million contingency from the state. Of the additional $47 million, rsted and Eversource have agreed to contribute $23.75 million and we will be seeking the other half of $23.5 million from the state plus an additional 6.5 million for an owner's contingency, Port Authority Executive Director Ulysses Hammond told the Port Authority Board Tuesday. That would bring the total cost of the state pier north of $300 million. No one has been able to explain to my satisfaction or the rest of the delegations satisfaction, how a $93 million project became almost a $300 million contract, nearly tripling in cost, Rep. Holly Cheeseman, R-East Lyme, said Tuesday. There is hope of recouping some of that cost, as Port Authority Executive Director David Kooris explained during an interview. NEO, which owns the offshore areas in which the wind farms will be built, will pay the state $2 million a year, and Gateway, which manages the state pier on behalf of the Port Authority, will pay back a portion of its revenue once the operation is up and running. In addition to that, it is our expectation that there will be times when rsted does not have an active wind project utilizing the facility, Kooris said. In those situations, they will seek out other wind developers to use the facility. If that does happen, we expect that there would be significant revenue from that and so there's a mechanism whereby we share that revenue with NEO. The first wind project, which had been expected to be operational this year, will consist of 12 turbines supplying energy to 70,000 homes on Long Islands south fork. Two years later, another 65 turbines are expected to provide energy to 350,000 homes in Connecticut and Rhode Island. Another 84 turbines should go operational that year, providing energy to 600,000 homes in New York state. The state pier would act as a staging ground for all those projects during both construction and operation. Cheeseman said that during a Tuesday morning call between the Port Authority and a bipartisan group of lawmakers that there were some general comments about difficulties, things that were unanticipated. Hammond said Tuesday that the cost increases were intended to cover work on a foundation wall, the piers heavy-lift platform, and all of this work is scheduled to be completed by October, leaving only dredging in late fall. Eversource announced last week its intention to sell its share of the three offshore wind farms to rsted, but Kooris said it has no bearing on us or our partnership. We certainly view it as positive given rsteds history in the industry and see no downsides associated with it whatsoever, he told the board. Seabury Maritime, a contractor on the project, was recently fined $10,000 by the Office of State Ethics for undisclosed lobbying before the Connecticut Port Authority. Its the second such fine imposed on Seabury in two years. Seabury and the Port Authority are also reportedly the subject of a federal investigation into its 2018 selection of Gateway as manager of the pier on behalf of the Port Authority. Seabury Capital, which owns Seabury Maritime, was paid $700,000, including a $523,000 success fee for choosing Gateway, three months after Henry Juan III of Greenwich, a managing director at Seabury, had resigned from the Port Authority board. When asked earlier this year if he was concerned about the investigation, Hammond said, We're concerned but not constrained. John Raoux/AP NORFOLK, Va. (AP) The U.S. Coast Guard said Tuesday that it's searching for a man who fell from a cruise ship off the coast of Florida. The 35-year-old passenger fell from the Carnival Magic ship about 185 miles (300 kilometers) east of Jacksonville on Monday, the service said in a statement. The Coast Guard is searching from the air and water. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) As promised, the American Civil Liberties Union is suing to block the Nebraska Legislatures most controversial measure combining an abortion ban with restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors, just days after it was signed into law. The lawsuit, filed in state court Tuesday by the ACLU on behalf of Planned Parenthood and one of its doctors who performs abortions in Nebraska, argues that the law violates a state constitutional requirement that legislative bills stick to a single subject. The lawsuit is also asking for an injunction to block enforcement of the trans health and abortion restrictions until the court case is decided. The new law will prevent people under 19 from receiving gender-confirming surgery and restrict the use of hormone treatments and puberty blockers in minors when those restrictions go into effect Oct. 1. It will put the states chief medical officer a political appointee who is an ear, nose and throat doctor in charge of setting the rules for hormone therapies for those minors already receiving that therapy at the time the measure goes into effect and those who demonstrate a long-lasting and intense pattern of gender nonconformity or gender dysphoria. The law also imposed an immediate ban on abortions after 12 weeks of pregnancy, with exceptions for rape, incest and to save the life of the mother. That ban was shoehorned into the trans care bill as an amendment after a separate bill to ban abortion at about six weeks failed to overcome a filibuster. We believe the combination of those bans violated the clear text of our states constitution, ACLU Nebraska Executive Director Mindy Rush Chipman said. The bottom line is that senators do not get to pick and choose which constitutional requirements they will follow when making laws. The proposal restricting gender-affirming care was the flashpoint of an epic filibuster led by Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh. She and a handful of progressive allies slowed the business of passing laws to a crawl by introducing amendment after amendment to nearly every bill that made it to the Senate floor. That sent leadership scrambling to prioritize which bills to push through. Lawmakers opposed to the hybrid bill had warned that it would face a lawsuit if passed. The ACLUs lawsuit argues that the Legislature wrongly logrolled two distinct, unrelated subjects into one combined bill. The single-subject rule prevents logrolling, namely, the passage of legislation that, if standing alone, could not muster the necessary votes for enactment, the lawsuit reads. The single-subject rule also promotes transparency in the legislative process and accountability by lawmakers. When a bill contains more than one subject, it is impossible to know whether the lawmakers vote signaled support for or opposition to the entire bill, or just some of it. Omaha Sen. Kathleen Kauth, a freshman lawmaker who introduced the trans health restriction bill that later morphed into the hybrid bill, said shes confident it will survive legal scrutiny. I mean, its called the Let Them Grow Act, she said of her original bill. I think restricting abortion is very much in that same subject. Gov. Jim Pillen declined to comment, citing his offices policy of not commenting on pending litigation. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) A missing emergency room doctor from Missouri was found dead in Arkansas from an apparent gunshot wound, authorities confirmed Wednesday. But they are still investigating what happened in the week since he was last seen. A kayaker discovered the body of 49-year-old Dr. John Forsyth on Tuesday in Beaver Lake, a large reservoir in northwestern Arkansas, the Benton County Sheriff's Office said. No further information would immediately be released, authorities said, and they didn't specify if he was shot by someone else or if the wound was self-inflicted. The doctors unlocked vehicle with his wallet, two phones, a laptop and other items had been found Sunday near a city-run public pool in Cassville, the town in the Missouri Ozarks where he worked, said his brother Richard Forsyth. The body was found at a location about 20 miles (32 kilometers) away, Arkansas authorities say. Cassville is about 200 miles south of Kansas City. Surveillance video from the pool shows John Forsyths black Infiniti pulling into the parking lot, and a white SUV can be seen parking near him a few minutes later, his brother said in an interview Wednesday. Were devastated, especially at the nature of his passing, Richard Forsyth said. He said Wednesday evening that police had given the family no new details other than investigations into his brothers death and how he went missing were continuing in both states. The last time the two brothers met in person was at dinner on Wednesday, May 17. I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future, Richard Forsyth said in an earlier interview. John Forsyth had recently become engaged to be married, his brother said, and his fiancee was the last known person to communicate with him, texting at around 7 a.m. on Sunday, May 21. The doctor was reported missing that same day when he didn't arrive for work at Mercy Hospital, police have said. Richard Forsyth said the family was mystified by his brother's death and rejected the theory that he might have taken his own life. I dont believe it, he said. John would never do that. I wont accept that possibility. John Forsyth was the father of eight children, his brother said, and was so dedicated to his work that he never missed a day, stayed in an RV near the hospital when he was on call, and was never late for his difficult shifts in the emergency room. His brother-in-law Jason Musgrave in a call with The Associated Press Wednesday from Ozark, Missouri, also rejected the idea of John Forsyth dying by suicide. I feel like it is foul play. I feel like it has to have been, Musgrave said, adding that it was also hard to imagine that anyone who knew him would want to hurt him. He was funny and engaging and the life of a party, Musgrave said. He said the news that his brother-in-law's body had been found had hit the family like a bus full of bricks. Messages seeking comment from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Cassville police on Wednesday were not immediately returned. When the doctor's vehicle was found, several law enforcement agencies searched about a 9-mile (15-kilometer) radius around the aquatic park using people, dogs and drones. Forsyth's family set up a Facebook page seeking information. Gina Forsyth-Farlaino said her brother was smart, confident, loved to help people and was devoted to his family. In the days since his disappearance, she said the family has heard at least three stories of people who he persuaded not to take their own lives. But Forsyth never mentioned those cases to his family, she recalled in an interview Wednesday from Price, Utah. I miss him terribly, Forsyth-Farlaino said. And Im devastated that hes not here. ___ Associated Press writer Lisa Baumann contributed from Bellingham, Washington. Hearst Connecticut Media file photo CROMWELL The town will host its Memorial Day ceremony and parade May 30 at 6 p.m. Participants will gather at Memorial Green on lower West Street (Route 372) opposite the Cromwell Police Department. Six students from Cromwell High School will assist participants to their lineup positions, according to Parade Marshal and Town Councilman Allan Waters. Connecticut State Police responded to nearly 6,000 calls over Memorial Day weekend, officials say. State police said troopers responded to 5,880 calls for service, assisting motorists and arresting drivers operating under the influence between 12:01 a.m. Friday and 11:59 p.m. Monday. State police said troopers assisted assisted 476 motorists and responded to 273 accidents, including three that were fatal. The fatal crashes occurred in Greenwich, Brooklyn and Middlebury, where two people died in a wrong-way crash. State police said they also responded to crashes with serious injuries in Middlefield and Windsor Locks. State police said troopers also made 36 DUI arrests, issued 518 citations for speeding and 208 seatbelt citations. State police also said 576 citations were issued for hazardous moving violations such as unsafe lane change, following too closely or failing to move over. WASHINGTON (AP) A U.S. military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be announced this week will total up to $300 million and will include additional munitions for drones, U.S. officials said Tuesday. The drone ammunition comes after new attacks by unmanned aircraft targeted Moscow. There has been no suggestion that U.S.-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow, and U.S. officials have repeatedly said that Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. The Kremlin blamed Kyiv for Tuesday's attack, but Ukrainian officials had no direct comment. But the new aid package comes at a tense moment in the war. The latest drone attack on Moscow follows Russia's seizure of the eastern Ukrainian city Bakhmut after a nine-month battle that killed tens of thousands of people. Ukraine is also showing signs that its long-awaited spring counteroffensive may already be underway. The Russian Defense Ministry said five drones were shot down in Moscow and the systems of three others were jammed, causing them to veer off course. President Vladimir Putin called it a terrorist act by Kyiv. A U.S. defense official said the drone strikes would not affect the weapons aid packages the U.S. is providing Ukraine, to include drone ammunition. The official said the U.S. has committed to supporting Ukraine in its effort to defend the country and Ukraine had committed to not using the systems inside Russia, so the aid would likely continue unchanged. All of the U.S. officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because the latest aid package has not yet been publicly announced. U.S. officials did not provide details on the drone munitions in the new aid package or specify which unmanned aircraft would use them. The Defense Department has given Ukraine a variety of unmanned aircraft over the last year, for both surveillance and attacks, including at least two versions of the Switchblade, a so-called kamikaze drone that can loiter in the air and then explode into a target. Other more sophisticated drones can drop munitions, but the U.S. has been reluctant to publicly share details about those. Also included in the newest package will be munitions for Patriot missile batteries and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), Stinger missiles for the Avenger system, mine-clearing equipment, anti-armor rounds, unguided Zuni aircraft rockets, night vision goggles, and about 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition, said the U.S. officials. The aid greatly resembles other recent U.S. packages, which have focused on providing Ukraine more ammunition for the weapons systems it has and helping it prepare for a counteroffensive to push back against Russian gains over the past year. Ukrainian officials have not formally announced the launch of their much-anticipated counteroffensive, although some say it has already begun and the pace of attacks suggests that its underway. Including the latest aid, the U.S. has committed more than $37.6 billion in weapons and other equipment to Ukraine since Russia attacked on Feb. 24, 2022. This latest package will be done under presidential drawdown authority, which allows the Pentagon to take weapons from its own stocks and quickly ship them to Ukraine, officials said. Officials said the U.S. is expected to announce the aid as soon as Wednesday. Tuesday's strikes on Moscow were the second drone strikes on the city since May 3, when Russian officials said two drones targeted the Kremlin in what they portrayed as an attempt on Putins life. Ukraine denied it was behind that attack. U.S. intelligence officials were still trying to ascertain if Ukraine had any involvement in or prior knowledge of Tuesdays drone attack in Moscow, according to a U.S. official familiar with the matter who was not authorized to comment and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Last week, the Russian border region of Belgorod was the target of one of the most serious cross-border raids since the war began, with two far-right pro-Ukrainian paramilitary groups claiming responsibility. The U.S. conveyed after that incident that American-made weaponry must not be used inside Russia, according to a U.S. official familiar with the sensitive communications. The message was very clearly understood, according to the official. Officials in the southern Russian city of Krasnodar, near annexed Crimea, said two drones struck there on Friday, damaging residential buildings. Other drones have reportedly flown deep into Russia multiple times. Ukrainian military analysts, though unable to confirm Kyiv had launched the drones against Moscow, said the attack may have involved UJ-22 drones, which are produced in Ukraine and have a maximum range of about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles). U.S. officials struck a delicate balance in responding to the drone strikes, reiterating support for Ukraine while stressing that the U.S. opposes Ukrainians using American weapons in Russia. They noted that Russias bombardment of Kyiv on Tuesday was the 17th round of attacks this month, many of which have devastated civilian areas. ___ Lee reported from Oslo. Associated Press writers Aamer Madhani and Tara Copp contributed to this report. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate ATLANTA (AP) Police on Wednesday arrested three Atlanta organizers who have been aiding protesters against the city's proposed police and fire training center, striking at the structure that supports the fight against what opponents derisively call Cop City. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced its agents and Atlanta police had arrested three leaders of the Atlanta Solidarity Fund, which has bailed out protesters and helped them find lawyers. Charged with money laundering and charity fraud are Marlon Scott Kautz, 39, of Atlanta; Savannah D. Patterson, 30, of Savannah; and Adele MacLean, 42, of Atlanta. State investigators said they found evidence linking all three to financial crimes. Police executed warrants Wednesday morning at a house owned by Kautz and MacLean that is emblazoned with anti-police graffiti in an otherwise gentrified neighborhood east of downtown Atlanta. Attorney Don Samuel, who is representing the three activists, said Wednesday afternoon that he had not yet seen the arrest warrants and was trying to determine the basis for the charges. I know what the crimes are that are alleged, but I dont know exactly what the states alleging that these three people did or how they supposedly engaged in charity fraud, he said. Prosecutors said the three would likely make their initial appearances before a judge on Thursday. MacLean, Kautz and Patterson are respectively the CEO, chief financial officer and secretary of the Network for Strong Communities, which was incorporated in 2020 and runs the Atlanta Solidarity Fund. Lauren Regan, executive director of the Civil Liberties Defense Center, called the arrests an extreme provocation in a statement. Bailing out protestors who exercise their constitutionally protected rights is simply not a crime, Regan said. "In fact, it is a historically grounded tradition in the very same social and political movements that the city of Atlanta prides itself on. Someone had to bail out civil rights activists in the 60s I think we can all agree that community support isnt a crime, More than 40 people have been charged with domestic terrorism in connection with protests over the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center, a cause that has garnered international attention since authorities clearing the protesters' camp in South River Forest fatally shot an environmental activist in January. Officials say the officers fired in self-defense after the protester shot a trooper. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating. Kautz himself predicted in a February statement that investigators were trying to build a criminal case against protesters using Georgia's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations law. That law allows prosecutors to bring charges against multiple people accused of committing separate crimes while working toward a common goal. RICO is a felony charge that carries stiff penalties: A prison term of five to 20 years; a fine of $25,000 or three times the amount of money gained from the criminal activity, whichever is greater; or both. This is targeting of organizers and movements by the police and the state," Kamau Franklin of Community Movement Builders said in a statement "Bail funds have been a part of organizing the Civil Rights movement and labor movement. We will continue to fight back against cop city and the political arrest of our friends and comrades. In a statement issued after the arrests, Gov. Brian Kemp said the state would track down every member of a criminal organization, from violent foot soldiers to their uncaring leaders. These criminals facilitated and encouraged domestic terrorism with no regard for others, watching as communities faced the destructive consequences of their actions." the Republican said. Here in Georgia, we do not allow that to happen. Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr, also a Republican, pledged to not rest until we have held accountable every person who has funded, organized, or participated in this violence and intimidation. Activists nationwide have joined the protest movement, arguing that the 85-acre (34-hectare) center would train officers to become more militarized and quell dissent, all while hundreds of trees are cut down, worsening flooding and climate change. The Atlanta City Council approved the training center in 2021, saying a state-of-the-art campus would replace substandard offerings and boost police morale, which is beset by hiring and retention struggles in the wake of violent nationwide protests against police brutality and racial injustice in the summer of 2020. The city is tasking the private Atlanta Police Foundation with building the complex, promising to pay $67 million over time. The remainder of the $90 million complex would come from private funds. Foundation work is ongoing, with the complex projected to be completed in 2024. ___ An earlier version of this story was corrected to show the spelling of one arrestee's last name is Adele MacLean, not Maclean. WASHINGTON (AP) The U.S. military said Tuesday that a Chinese fighter jet flew aggressively close to a U.S. reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea, forcing the American pilot to fly through the turbulent wake. The Chinese J-16 fighter pilot flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135, which was conducting routine operations in international airspace last Friday, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement. It called the Chinese move an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver. U.S. defense leaders have complained that China's military has become significantly more aggressive over the past five years, intercepting U.S. aircraft and ships in the region. And tensions with China have only grown in recent months over Washingtons military support and sales of defensive weapons to self-governing Taiwan, Chinas assertions of sovereignty to the contested South China Sea and its flying of a suspected spy balloon over the U.S. In a further sign of the tensions, China said its defense chief will not meet with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when the two men attend a security conference in Singapore this coming weekend. Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, said China informed the U.S. that it was declining Austins invitation to meet while they were at the conference. He said Beijings concerning unwillingness to engage in meaningful military-to-military discussions" will not diminish the Defense Department's commitment to seeking open lines of communication with the Chinese army. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Tuesday blamed the U.S., saying Washington should earnestly respect Chinas sovereignty and security interests and concerns, immediately correct the wrongdoing, show sincerity, and create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for dialogue and communication between the two militaries. In a visit to the Indo-Pacific last summer, U.S. Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the number of intercepts by Chinese aircraft and ships in the Pacific region with U.S. and other partner forces has increased significantly over that time, and the number of unsafe interactions has risen by similar proportions. China frequently challenges military aircraft from the U.S. and its allies, especially over the strategically vital South China Sea, which China claims in its entirety. Such behavior led to a 2001 in-air collision in which a Chinese plane was lost and pilot killed. Beijing deeply resents the presence of U.S. military assets in that region, and regularly demands that American ships and planes leave the area. In the statement Tuesday, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, and expects all other countries to do the same. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate WASHINGTON (AP) The chairman of the House Oversight Committee said Tuesday he is moving forward with holding FBI Director Chris Wray in contempt of Congress because the department has not turned over a bureau record that purports to relate to President Joe Biden and his family. Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., criticized the federal law enforcement agency after he said his committee was told it would not gain access to an unclassified form that describes an alleged criminal scheme involving the president and a foreign national. The FBI's decision to stiff-arm Congress and hide this information from the American people is obstructionist and unacceptable, Comer said in a statement. In response, the FBI said in a statement that it remains committed to cooperating with lawmakers in good faith, and that any discussion of escalation under these circumstances is unnecessary." The FBI said it offered to give the Oversight committee access to information responsive to the Committees subpoena in a format and setting that maintains confidentiality and protects important security interests and the integrity of FBI investigations. The bureau called that offer an extraordinary accommodation." Comer and Wray are scheduled to speak by phone on Wednesday amid the standoff. Calls to move forward with contempt were elevated by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy earlier Tuesday, who told Fox News that he had personally called Wray to urge the release of the document to Congress. If he does not act, hes not above the law. Hes not above Congress. And we will hold him in contempt. Now I want to be very clear about that, McCarthy said. Comer subpoenaed Wray earlier this month seeking a specific FBI form from June 2020 that is a report of conversations or interactions with a confidential source. These reports are routine, contain uncorroborated and unvetted information and do not on their own establish any wrongdoing. In a May 3 letter to Wray with Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, Comer said that it has come to our attention that the bureau has such a document that describes an alleged criminal scheme involving Biden and a foreign national relating to the exchange of money for policy decisions when Biden was vice president and includes a precise description about it. Comer and Grassley said those disclosures demand further investigation, and they want to know whether the FBI investigated and, if so, what agents found. The subpoena seeks all so-called FD-1023 forms and accompanying attachments and documents. Democrats on the Oversight committee called Comers narrative of the FBI obstructing a radical distortion of the situation. And they accused the chairman of stonewalling them from the call with Wray on Wednesday. This subpoenaed document, by definition, reveals nothing more than an unverified and unsubstantiated tip made to Donald Trumps Justice Department, which presumably led to no evidence of criminal wrongdoing, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., the top Democrat on the committee, said in a statement late Tuesday. The lawmakers used the word alleged three times in the opening paragraph of the letter and offered no evidence of the veracity of the accusations or any details about what they contend are highly credible unclassified whistleblower disclosures. The White House has called the subpoena effort further evidence of how congressional Republicans long have been lobbing unfounded, unproven, politically motivated attacks against the Biden family without offering evidence for their claims or evidence of decisions influenced by anything other than U.S. interests. A contempt of Congress charge would require a full committee vote before going to the House floor. If the House were to approve a contempt resolution against Wray, the decision about whether to prosecute him would fall to prosecutors in the Justice Department, where Wray works. ___ Associated Press writer Eric Tucker contributed to this report. CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) Those who harass, intimidate or use force on election workers performing their duties in Nevada could soon face up to four years in prison under a new law signed by the Western swing states Republican governor on Tuesday. The law is meant to deter attacks against those in state and local election offices who have faced increased scrutiny for doing their jobs, Democratic Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar said Tuesday. Threats and initimidation of election workers had ramped up significantly in Nevada and across the country amid falsehoods and conspiracy theories about foul play denying former President Donald Trump victory in the 2020 presidential race. Other states have taken similar steps to better protect election officials in recent years, including Maine, Vermont, Washington, New Mexico and Oklahoma. The bill, passed unanimously through both chambers of Nevadas Democratic-controlled Legislature, was a core campaign promise from Aguilar, who cited an exodus of election workers across the state due in part to increased threats. The law also makes it a felony to disseminate personal information about an election worker without their consent. I want election workers to know that the secretary of state's office has their back, Aguilar said at the ceremony. Aguilar stood alongside Republican Gov. Lombardo at the bill signing ceremony a pair that have recently sparred over Lombardo's proposal to require voter ID, to which Aguilar has opposed and legislative Democrats have described as a non-starter since the beginning of session. Over half of the top election officials across Nevadas 17 counties stepped down between the 2020 election and 2022 midterms, with several citing election threats. Many of their staff members had resigned too, along with an exodus of workers in the secretary of states election department leading up to the 2022 midterms. That was due both to election burnout and better opportunities elsewhere, the office said at the time. Aguilars campaign vow to protect election workers and restore trust in elections became a foil to his opponent, Republican Jim Marchant, who led a nationwide coalition of secretary of state candidates seeking to discredit the electoral process. Several election deniers were defeated in Nevada statewide elections despite the split-ticket outcome. Lombardo was endorsed by former President Donald Trump but pushed back against his false claims of a stolen 2020 election, saying there was a modicum of fraud but not enough to sway an election. Another bill that recently made it to Lombardo's desk would criminalize so-called fake electors, or anybody who signed certificates falsely stating when a candidate wins a certain state to the National Archives as six Nevada GOP members did in 2020. Spokeswoman Elizabeth Ray said the governor's office declined to take a specific stance on that legislation, which includes a higher-level felony for the fake electors than the bill signed Tuesday. Aguilars bill became particularly timely after a federal court acquitted a Las Vegas man of charges from threatening calls he made to the Nevada Secretary of States office the morning after the Jan. 6, 2020, attack on the Capital. The indictment alleged that Gjergi Luke Juncaj accused a woman who answered his calls of stealing the election and treason; said he hoped her children were molested; and said those working in her office were all going to die. I can tell you, it has put a chilling effect in our office as of today, Aguilar said at a bill hearing the day after the court ruling. Because people are afraid They are struggling just knowing that something like this can continue to happen. And that is why this law is so needed. Had the state law been in place at the time of the threats, (Juncaj) would not be a free man today, Aguilar said on Tuesday, The penalty would be one to four years in state prison with the possibility of probation the same as it is to harass, intimidate or use force on voters. The bill was amended before a state Senate vote to prohibit all state officers including the governor, secretary of state and legislators from campaign fundraising during the legislative session, which runs every other year from February to early June. ___ Stern 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. Follow Stern on Twitter: @gabestern326. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate RICHMOND, Va. (AP) The governors of Virginia, West Virginia and South Carolina on Wednesday joined a growing list of Republican leaders sending their state National Guard soldiers or other state law enforcement officers to the U.S. border with Mexico. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who is considered a possible presidential aspirant, announced an executive order directing the deployment of 100 Virginia National Guard soldiers and 21 support personnel. South Carolina's Henry McMaster and West Virginia's Jim Justice announced their deployments shortly thereafter, also in response to a request from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. The announcements bring to at least eight the number of Republican-led states deploying soldiers or offering other assistance in the weeks since Abbott appealed for help. The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state, Youngkin said in a statement. As leadership solutions at the federal level fall short, states are answering the call to secure our southern border, reduce the flow of fentanyl, combat human trafficking and address the humanitarian crisis." President Joe Biden announced in early May plans to send 1,500 active-duty troops to the border, in addition to the 2,500 National Guard members already there. Those military personnel were tasked with data entry, warehouse support and other administrative duties so that U.S. Customs and Border Protection can focus on fieldwork, the White House said. But the Virginia deployment and others from Republican-led states have specifically been in support of Texas Operation Lone Star, which is separate from the active duty and National Guard troops working with the Customs and Border Protection. Abbott launched Lone Star in 2021, saying that the Biden administration was essentially welcoming illegal immigration. Critics have questioned the effectiveness of the multi-billion dollar operation. Some arrests, including for low-level amounts of marijuana during traffic stops, appeared to have little to do with border security, and some Texas National Guard troops initially complained of low morale, late paychecks and having little to do. Abbott's request this month came through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, which facilitates state-level mutual aid nationwide. Youngkin and McMaster also joined other governors in Austin last week to discuss border policies. McMasters news release said South Carolinas mission is in the planning phase, with a goal of deployment by July 1. Justice said he had approved the deployment of as many as 50 West Virginia National Guard soldiers and airmen for 30 days. Youngkins order said the Virginia troops will answer to a military commander during a 30-day deployment, not any local civilian authorities. The operating cost of the mission is $3.1 million, spokeswoman Macaulay Porter said in an email. Youngkin, a former private equity executive who is barred under Virginia law from seeking a second consecutive term, is frequently mentioned as a possible 2024 presidential contender. He said earlier this month that he had no plans to launch such a bid this year. Presidential candidate and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is among the other governors who have announced plans to deploy Guard troops and other officers since Abbott's request was made. Mississippi, Iowa, Tennessee, and Nebraska have also volunteered aid, and other GOP-led states have made similar deployments in recent years, part of the party's criticism of Biden's performance on the border. CBP said it doesn't have any role with National Guard deployments with individual states, including Texas. In Virginia, while some Republicans praised Youngkin's decision, the state's Democrats characterized the move as absurd, disingenuous or politically motivated. Youngkin for President has officially jumped the shark our VA National Guard troops shouldnt be used to further presidential ambitions much less fight a MAGA culture war in Texas of all places Never thought I would see my state so compromised, state Sen. Scott Surovell tweeted. ___ Associated Press reporters John Raby in Charleston, West Virginia; Jeffrey Collins and James Pollard in Columbia, South Carolina; and Rebecca Santana in Washington contributed to this report. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 George Frey/AP Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Rick Bowmer/AP Show More Show Less 3 of 3 SALT LAKE CITY (AP) U.S. Rep. Chris Stewart, R-Utah, is planning to leave Congress by the end of this year due to his wifes illness, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Tuesday. The six-term Utah Republican will announce on Wednesday that he will likely leave office by the end of the year, leaving an open Republican seat on the House Appropriations and Intelligence committees. The person familiar with the matter spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly prior to the planned announcement. LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) Nebraska lawmakers advanced a bill Tuesday to comply with a voter ID requirement mandated by state voters in November, taking passage of the bill down to the wire amid Republican infighting on whether the measure goes far enough to combat voter fraud. Lawmakers are scheduled to take up final debate on the bill Thursday the same day lawmakers plan to adjourn the session. The measure is expected to pass; it's backed by both the Republican governor and the secretary of state who oversees elections. Nebraska has no history of widespread voter fraud, but supporters of the voter ID requirement say its needed to prevent possible future problems. It advanced Tuesday with only three lawmakers voting to continue a filibuster by Sen. Julie Slama, who has sought far-reaching requirements. Those include notarization of mail-in ballots, audits of witness signatures for mail-in ballots and verification of voters citizenship, even after they were required to show that proof at the time they registered to vote. Some election officials have said Slama's preferences would fall counter to constitutional law and could disenfranchise some voters in rural Nebraska. The version by Sen. Tom Brewer and the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee he chairs would allow a wide array of photo identification that voters could present at the polls. IDs would include passports, drivers licenses, military and tribal IDs and Nebraska college IDs. Even expired IDs would be allowed as long as they have the voters name and photo. Residents of hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living centers would be able to use patient documents that include a photo. Sticking points for Slama were some exceptions made for those who show up at the polls without a photo ID. Voters who show up without a photo ID could cast a provisional ballot but would have to present a valid ID to election officials within a week for the vote to be counted. Some rare photo ID exceptions would also be made, such as for those with religious objections to being photographed. She also opposes allowing those voting by mail to include the number from their drivers license or state ID card or a copy of an accepted document. Defenders of that allowance noted it protects those counties in the state's most rural areas that hold most elections by mail. Eleven Nebraska counties currently hold elections exclusively by mail. Slama called it fraud-friendly." It's unfortunate, Slama said Tuesday during her four-hour filibuster of the measure. Because we really do have here a measure that does not follow through with the wishes of the voters. It's not clean. She continued to cast blame for the bill on Republican Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen. Like other election officials even Republican ones across the country, Evnen has been a popular target among those who believe persistent conspiracy theories that the 2020 elections were rigged. Evnan has defended his office's work on the bill. Brewer defended the bill, noting that 92 county election commissioners out of Nebraska's 93 counties signed off on it. The lone holdout was Sarpy County Election Commissioner Emily Ethington who is also Slama's sister. We have a mandate from the people," he said. And this bill does what they've asked. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate CANBERRA, Australia (AP) Australias House of Representatives voted overwhelming Wednesday for a referendum to be held this year on creating an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, an advocate aiming to give the nations most disadvantaged ethnic minority more say on government policy. While the Voice would advocate for Indigenous interests, it would not have a vote on laws, and debate for and against the elected body has become increasingly heated and divisive. The 121-to-25 House vote that approved the referendum being held does not reflect the level of lawmakers support for enshrining the Voice in the constitution. The opposition conservative Liberal Party voted in support of giving Australians a choice at a referendum but is also campaigning for the Voice to be rejected by the public. The Senate will vote on the bill in June, and the bill needs majority support to ensure that Australias first referendum since 1999 takes place between October and December this year. A majority of senators have already flagged their support. Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney, the first Indigenous woman to hold the role, said the campaigning would begin in earnest with a successful Senate vote. She had "no doubt" the referendum would succeed. A yes vote at a referendum ... will move Australia forward for everyone. It will be a new chapter in our country's story, Burney told reporters. And a yes vote will make a practical difference I cannot stress that enough the Voice will make a practical difference. Because the solutions to so many of our challenges can be found in the knowledge and the wisdom of local (Indigenous) communities, Burney added. Proponents hope the Voice will improve living standards for Indigenous Australians, who account for 3.2% of Australias population and are the most nations most disadvantaged ethnic group. Australias Race Discrimination Commissioner Chin Tan, a racism law watchdog, has warned that focusing the public debate on race emboldens racists and exposes the Indigenous population to abuse and vilification. The Liberal Party and the Nationals party, which formed a conservative coalition government for nine years until elections a years ago, argue the Voice would create a racial divide. Opposition leader Peter Dutton has told Parliament the proposal would permanently divide Australians by race. It will have an Orwellian effect where all Australians are equal, but some Australians are more equal than others, Dutton said. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who committed his center-left Labor Party government on election night last year to holding the referendum, said scare campaigns against the Voice would not find traction among most Australians. Australians wont succumb to their appeals to fear and their ever-more ludicrous invitations to jump at our own shadows, Albanese said in a recent speech. Speaking in support of the Voice, government minister Tim Watts urged his fellow lawmakers to address Australias history of refusing to recognize or listen to its Indigenous people. Watts quoted his own ancestor as a cautionary example: John Watts, a 19th century colonial lawmaker who had justified state-condoned extrajudicial police shootings of Indigenous Outback tribes. The natives must be taught to feel the mastery of the whites, John Watts had told the Queensland state Parliament in 1861. The natives, knowing no law, nor entertaining any fears but those of the carbine (rifle): there were no other means of ruling them, John Watts had added. His descendant, Tim Watts, urged lawmakers in Parliament to: Take this moment to be good ancestors. Opinion polls show the Voice has majority public support. But many observers say support is not yet high enough to indicate a successful referendum. Of the 44 referendums held since the constitution took effect in 1901, only eight have been carried and none since 1977. No referendum has ever been passed without the bipartisan support the major political parties. The Voice was recommended in 2017 by a group of 250 Indigenous leaders who met at Uluru, a landmark sandstone rock in central Australia that is a scared site to traditional owners. They were delegates of the First Nations National Constitutional Convention that the then-government had asked for advice on how the Indigenous population could be acknowledged in the constitution. The conservative government immediately rejected the prospect of the Voice, which it likened to a third chamber of Parliament. ___ Find more of AP's Asia-Pacific coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/world-news This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Koreas attempt to put its first spy satellite into space failed Wednesday in a setback to leader Kim Jong Uns push to boost his military capabilities as tensions with the United States and South Korea rise. After an unusually quick admission of failure, North Korea vowed to conduct a second launch after it learns what went wrong. It suggests Kim remains determined to expand his weapons arsenal and apply more pressure on Washington and Seoul while diplomacy is stalled. South Korea and Japan briefly urged residents in some areas to take shelter after the launch. The South Korean military said it was salvaging an object presumed to be part of the crashed North Korean rocket in waters 200 kilometers (125 miles) west of the southwestern island of Eocheongdo. Later, the Defense Ministry released photos of a white, metal cylinder it described as a suspected rocket part. A satellite launch by North Korea is a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban the country from conducting any launch based on ballistic technology. Observers say North Koreas previous satellite launches helped improve its long-range missile technology. North Korean long-range missile tests in recent years demonstrated a potential to reach all of the continental U.S., but outside experts say the North still has some work to do to develop functioning nuclear missiles. The newly developed Chollima-1 rocket was launched at 6:37 a.m. at the Norths Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in the northwest, carrying the Malligyong-1 satellite. The rocket crashed off the Korean Peninsulas western coast after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages, the Norths official Korean Central News Agency said. South Koreas military said the rocket had an abnormal flight before it fell in the water. Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that no object was believed to have reached space. North Korean media said the countrys space agency will investigate what it calls the serious defects revealed by the launch and conduct a second launch as soon as possible. It is impressive when the North Korean regime actually admits failure, but it would be difficult to hide the fact of a satellite launch failure internationally, and the regime will likely offer a different narrative domestically, said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul. This outcome also suggests that Pyongyang may stage another provocation soon, in part to make up for todays setback. Adam Hodge, a spokesperson at the U.S. National Security Council, said in a statement that Washington strongly condemns the North Korean launch because it used banned ballistic missile technology, raised tensions and risked destabilizing security in the region and beyond. The U.N. imposed economic sanctions on North Korea over its previous satellite and ballistic missile launches but has not responded to recent tests because China and Russia, permanent Security Council members now locked in confrontations with the U.S., have blocked attempts to toughen the sanctions. Seouls military said it boosted military readiness in coordination with the United States, and Japan said it was prepared to respond to any emergency. The U.S. said it will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and the defense of South Korea and Japan. After the launch was detected, the South Korean government sent cellphone text messages urging residents of a front-line island off the west coast to move to safer places. Officials in Seoul, the capital, issued similar phone messages to city residents, but the country's Interior and Safety Ministry later said the Seoul alerts were sent in error. Seoul's mayor apologized for causing public confusion. Japan activated a missile warning system for Okinawa prefecture in southwestern Japan, in the rockets suspected path. Please evacuate into buildings or underground, the Japanese alert said. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada said Japan plans to keep missile defense systems deployed in its southern islands and in southwestern waters until June 11, the end of North Koreas announced launch window. KCNA didnt provide details of the rocket or the satellite beyond their names. Experts earlier said North Korea would likely use a liquid-fueled rocket as most of its previously tested long-range rockets and missiles have done. Though it plans a fuller investigation, the Norths National Aerospace Development Administration attributed the failure to the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system applied to (the) carrier rocket and the unstable character of the fuel, according to KCNA. On Tuesday, Ri Pyong Chol, a top North Korean official, said the North needs a space-based reconnaissance system to counter escalating security threats from South Korea and the United States. However, the spy satellite shown earlier in the countrys state-run media didnt appear to be sophisticated enough to produce high-resolution imagery. Some outside experts said it may be able to detect troop movements and large targets such as warships and warplanes. Recent commercial satellite imagery of the Norths Sohae launch center showed active construction indicating North Korea plans to launch more than one satellite. In his Tuesday statement, Ri also said North Korea would test various reconnaissance means" to monitor moves by the United States and its allies in real time. With three to five spy satellites, North Korea could build a space-based surveillance system that allows it to monitor the Korean Peninsula in near real-time, according to Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Koreas Science and Technology Policy Institute. The satellite is one of several high-tech weapons systems that Kim has publicly vowed to introduce. Other weapons on his wish list include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. In his visit to the space agency in mid-May, Kim emphasized the strategic significance of a spy satellite in North Koreas standoff with the United States and South Korea. Easley, the professor, said Kim likely increased pressure on his scientists and engineers to launch the spy satellite after rival South Korea successfully launched its first commercial-grade satellite aboard its domestically built Nuri rocket earlier this month. South Korea is expected to launch its first spy satellite later this year, and analysts say Kim likely wants his country to launch its spy satellite before the South to reinforce his military credentials at home. After repeated failures, North Korea successfully put its first satellite into orbit in 2012 and a second one in 2016. The government said both are Earth observation satellites launched under its peaceful space development program, but many foreign experts believe both were developed to spy on rivals. Observers say there has been no evidence that the satellites have ever transmitted imagery back to North Korea. ___ Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate UNITED NATIONS (AP) The U.N. nuclear chief stressed Tuesday that the world is fortunate a nuclear accident hasnt happened in Ukraine and asked Moscow and Kyiv to commit to preventing any attack on Europes largest nuclear power plant and make other pledges to avoid the danger of a catastrophic incident. Rafael Grossi reiterated to the U.N. Security Council what he told the International Atomic Energy Agencys board of governors in March: We are rolling a dice and if this continues then one day our luck will run out." The IAEA director general said avoiding a nuclear accident is possible if five principles are observed at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, where fighting on seven occasions, most recently last week, disrupted critical power supplies, the last line of defense against a nuclear accident. Grossi respectfully and solemnly asked Ukraine and Russia to observe the principles, saying IAEA experts at Zaporizhzhia will start monitoring and he will publicly report on any violations: Ban attacks from or against the plant, especially targeting reactors and spent fuel storage areas. Ban the storage of heavy weapons or presence of military personnel that could be used for an attack. Ensure the security of an uninterrupted off-site power supply to the plant. Protect all structures, systems and components essential to the plants operation from attacks or acts of sabotage. Take no action to undermine these principles. Grossi asked the 15 Security Council members to support the five principles, stressing that they are to no ones detriment and to everyones benefit. The Kremlins forces took over the plant after Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy opposes any proposal that would legitimize Russias control. Neither the Russian nor Ukrainian ambassador gave a commitment to support the principles. Ukraines U.N. Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya accused Russia of continuing to actively use the nuclear plant for military purposes." He said Russia has mined its perimeter and is responsible for shelling that has inflicted serious damage on parts of the plant, undermining its safety. He claimed 500 Russian military personnel are at the plant along with heavy weapons, munitions and explosives. The threat of dangerous accident as a result of these irresponsible and criminal actions hangs over us, he said. Kyslytsya said Ukraine takes note of Grossis five principles but urges him to add several more, starting with the withdrawal of all Russian personnel from the Zaporizhzhia plant, guarantees of uninterrupted power to the plant from Ukraine, and a humanitarian corridor to ensure that Ukrainian and IAEA personnel at the plant can be rotated safely. Russias U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia denied that Russia has ever attacked the Zaporizhzhia plant, placed heavy weapons there or stationed military personnel at the plant to carry out an attack from its territory. He accused Ukraine of shelling the plant and said Russia will take the most severe measures to respond to any Ukraine attack. Nebenzia insisted that nuclear safety remains a priority for Russia and urged the IAEA to "openly condemn Ukraines actions, which have repeatedly brought the world to the brink of a nuclear catastrophe. Britains U.N. Ambassador Barbara Woodward said an IAEA report in February confirmed the continuing presence of Russian military troops, equipment and land mines. New imagery shows Russian forces have established sandbag fighting positions on the roofs of several of the six reactor buildings, she said. This indicates that they have integrated the actual reactor buildings of Europes largest nuclear power plant into tactical defense planning. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield urged council members to support the five principles, but accused Russia of demonstrating flagrant disregard for them. To make matters worse, recent news reports indicate that Moscow has disconnected Zaporizhzhia's vital radiation monitoring sensors, which means the plants data is now being sent to the Russian nuclear regulator," she said, This is a clear escalation of Russias efforts to undermine Ukrainian sovereignty and authority over the Zaporizhzhia plant, Thomas-Greenfield said. And this undermines our ability to have confidence in the level of nuclear safety at the plant. Grossi, asked whether he felt he had received commitments from Russia and Ukraine to the five principles, replied that the council meeting showed there is a consensus on the fact that no nuclear accident should happen. The important thing is that the minimum common denominator, which are these basic five principles, have been widely supported and there was no voice opposing them, he said. This indicates that what we are saying is something no one has a contradictory view upon. WASHINGTON The U.S. military said Tuesday that a Chinese fighter jet flew aggressively close to a U.S. reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea, forcing the American pilot to fly through the turbulent wake. The Chinese J-16 fighter pilot flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135, which was conducting routine operations in international airspace last Friday, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement. It called the Chinese move an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver. U.S. defense leaders have complained that China's military has become significantly more aggressive over the past five years, intercepting U.S. aircraft and ships in the region. And tensions with China have only grown in recent months over Washingtons military support and sales of defensive weapons to self-governing Taiwan, Chinas assertions of sovereignty to the contested South China Sea and its flying of a suspected spy balloon over the U.S. In a further sign of the tensions, China said its defense chief will not meet with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when the two men attend a security conference in Singapore this coming weekend. Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, said China informed the U.S. that it was declining Austins invitation to meet while they were at the conference. He said Beijings concerning unwillingness to engage in meaningful military-to-military discussions" will not diminish the Defense Department's commitment to seeking open lines of communication with the Chinese army. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Tuesday blamed the U.S., saying Washington should earnestly respect Chinas sovereignty and security interests and concerns, immediately correct the wrongdoing, show sincerity, and create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for dialogue and communication between the two militaries. In a visit to the Indo-Pacific last summer, U.S. Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the number of intercepts by Chinese aircraft and ships in the Pacific region with U.S. and other partner forces has increased significantly over that time, and the number of unsafe interactions has risen by similar proportions. China frequently challenges military aircraft from the U.S. and its allies, especially over the strategically vital South China Sea, which China claims in its entirety. Such behavior led to a 2001 in-air collision in which a Chinese plane was lost and pilot killed. Beijing deeply resents the presence of U.S. military assets in that region, and regularly demands that American ships and planes leave the area. In the statement Tuesday, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, and expects all other countries to do the same. LOS ANGELES -- Nine minors were arrested Tuesday after a melee near the San Clemente Pier over Memorial Day weekend in which a group of 30 teens and young adults pummeled three off-duty Marines, according to the city's mayor. Orange County deputies arrested five of the juveniles -- four boys and one girl -- on suspicion of felony assault, said San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan. The Orange County Sheriff's Department said the five were booked into Orange County Juvenile Hall. Duncan said four additional minors were arrested on other charges. The suspects' identities have been withheld because they are minors, according to authorities. The Marines were kicked and punched by the group late Friday, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Department. An altercation broke out between the Marines and young people at about 9:50 p.m., the Sheriff's Department said. Authorities did not say what caused the fight, but one of the Marines told KCBS-TV Channel 2 that it started after he asked the other group to stop lighting fireworks at the beach because firework debris had hit him in the face. Video obtained by KTLA-TV Channel 5 shows three Marines walking away from the group of young people. The video then shows someone sucker-punching a Marine from behind before the Marine charges at the group. A melee ensues, and at least two Marines are shown on the ground, curled up in the fetal position, with people in the crowd striking them in the head and upper body before two adults intervene and stop the beatings. "The barbaric assault on off-duty Marines at the San Clemente Pier goes against everything we stand for in San Clemente, and it's no excuse that teenagers were involved," Duncan said. "I want to assure our community, especially our military and veteran community, that we take this matter with the utmost seriousness and will not tolerate this kind of behavior in our city." "The fact that this incident occurred over Memorial Day weekend is particularly tragic," Duncan added. The Orange County Fire Authority treated the Marines at the scene, but they all refused to be transported to a hospital, according to the Sheriff's Department. The Marines had minor to moderate injuries, said Sgt. Mike Woodruff, a spokesman for the Sheriff's Department. 2023 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Despite a website with vague guidance, PowerPoint presentations and at least five separate policies referencing behavioral health, the Army offers relatively few clear resources for how units are supposed to respond to soldiers who are at risk of suicide. The service has been promising to rewrite its suicide prevention policy for three years, but the effort has been repeatedly delayed. The most recent holdup is due to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's push for uniform prevention policies across the services, as recommended by an independent commission that finished work in February. The need for clear guidance has been highlighted by years of persistently high suicide rates and recent individual deaths. Military.com reported on the April suicide death of Spc. Austin Valley, who his parents said was largely left on his own at Fort Riley, Kansas, without needed medical care following an earlier attempt overseas. Read Next: A Soldier Attempted Suicide in Poland. Left to Roam at Fort Riley, He Killed Himself. For now, the forthcoming Pentagon policies recommended by its independent commission, which could affect all of the services, have stalled the Army's own internal moves on suicide prevention. "The Army continues to focus on taking care of our people and addressing the complex causes of suicide and other harmful behaviors. To do so, the Army is working with the Office of the Secretary of Defense to address recommendations that came out [from the commission]," Bryce Dubee, a service spokesperson, told Military.com in a statement.. The service said it is necessary to wait on the larger Pentagon policy to make sure its own policies are well nested going forward. "The Army is also refining its draft Suicide Prevention Regulation to both support our commanders and soldiers in the field," Dubee said. Right now, there is no clear Army-wide guidance for units on how to respond to a soldier who has suicidal ideation or has made an attempt. The response strategies that do exist often lack specifics and are buried in numerous training programs. In March 2022, Austin created an advisory commission to investigate military suicide and potential ways to combat it, as such deaths increased 44% between 2015 and 2020, outpacing the civilian population. The panel found the center of the issues is easy access to guns, and recommended banning gun sales to troops 24 years old and younger, the most at-risk demographic in the service, and implementing a four-day waiting period for any other service member buying guns or ammo. However, those restrictions would be political lightning rods -- and would affect only sales on base. Most bases are surrounded by stores that sell weapons and ammo. Meanwhile, on-base exchange stores in the U.S. sold 113,200 firearms in 2021, according to data provided to Military.com. Experts have found that suicide is often an impulsive decision and can depend on access to the means, such as firearms. The issue of gun rights and access is thorny, and it is far from certain whether Austin, who has the final say on suicide regulations, will choose to make unprecedented restrictions on service members' access to firearms, as the independent commission recommended. A Pentagon working group is scheduled to give Austin an implementation plan for new suicide policies this week. The Army first mentioned plans to rewrite its suicide prevention regulations in a 2020 statement to CBS News. Subsequent Army press releases kept shifting the planned timeline further into the future. Army Secretary Christine Wormuth and Gen. James McConville, the service's top officer, most recently mentioned the effort this month in a joint statement to Congress in which they indicated it could be complete by the end of June. "The Army is leveraging a new public health approach to prevent and respond to suicide at the individual and community levels," the pair said in a statement for a May 2 hearing. "We will publish a comprehensive suicide prevention regulation to define this new approach for the force by the end of [the third quarter of fiscal year] 2023." On Tuesday, Military.com reported on Valley's death. He was an infantryman assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 70th Armor Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. He was found hanging from a rope in Poland and was swiftly sent back to Fort Riley. But Valley was apparently never placed into inpatient care or provided with any significant supervision following the suicide attempt, according to his parents and GPS and phone documents viewed by Military.com. He died on April 11, 30 days after his attempt in Poland. The lack of a unified Army response and poorly staffed mental health care facilities can leave units with few options to care for the rank and file. In some cases, it can take weeks for a soldier to receive a behavioral health appointment. In Valley's case, he scheduled an appointment off base and planned to pay out of pocket. But that appointment was set for after he died, according to his parents. As the overhauled Army suicide policies are on hold, the service also aims to hire 1,300 behavioral health specialists by the end of 2027. But the service still struggles to compete with civilian-sector pay, and bases are often in rural areas that can make it difficult to recruit health professionals. -- Steve Beynon can be reached at Steve.Beynon@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StevenBeynon Related: Gun Buying Restrictions on Base Are Needed to Reduce Suicides, Pentagon Panel Says The Department of the Air Force selected Florida's Patrick Space Force Base on Wednesday as the preferred headquarters location for STARCOM, the service's training and education command. Space Training and Readiness Command had been temporarily headquartered at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado since it was organized under the then-newly created Space Force in 2021. The decision, announced in a press release Wednesday, has been deliberated for years and was quickly praised by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. "From Project Mercury to today's privatized spaceflight, Americans look to Florida's Space Coast to see history in the making," DeSantis said in a press statement. "We are honored to host the Space Training and Readiness Command headquarters and continue Florida's history as America's gateway to outer space." Read Next: Air Force Resurrects Assignment Swap Program for Enlisted Ranks STARCOM's Space Delta 10, the group underneath STARCOM that is responsible for doctrine and war gaming, will also be located at Patrick, according to a Space Force press release. The locations for two other Space Deltas, which are overseen by STARCOM, were also announced. Space Delta 11, which "delivers realistic, threat-informed test and training environments through the provision of live, virtual and constructive range and combat replication capabilities," is expected to be located at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, according to the press release. Space Delta 12, a unit responsible for testing and evaluating space systems, is expected to be located at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado. "The decision to host STARCOM HQ and the three Deltas at their respective bases came after conducting site surveys at each location to assess their ability to facilitate the mission and infrastructure capacity, while accounting for community support, environmental factors and cost," the Space Force said. The Department of the Air Force's next step will be to conduct an environmental impact analysis at the bases for STARCOM and the Space Deltas, which is "expected to be completed later this year before final decisions are made," according to the press release. The STARCOM headquarters announcement comes as lawmakers in Alabama and Colorado continue to squabble over where U.S. Space Command, the unified combatant command that oversees all military operations in space, will ultimately be based. A decision on whether the headquarters for U.S. Space Command will remain in Colorado or move to Alabama has been held up because the Department of the Air Force is doing an extra layer of review, delaying a final announcement that has dragged on since the Trump era. Two watchdog reports, requested by members of Colorado's delegation in Washington, D.C., followed the official announcement of Huntsville as the preferred location in 2021. They did not point to any major issues with Huntsville as a location for the base, but did scrutinize the process for choosing the location. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall told Military.com in March that the final decision will come "fairly soon" but further analysis is needed. The Supreme Court's ruling last year to overturn Roe v. Wade -- known as Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization -- has also been seen as potentially impacting the decision to move Space Command from Colorado to Alabama and was also seen as a possible factor for STARCOM. STARCOM's finalist locations included Space Force bases in either California or Colorado -- where abortion access is widespread and mostly unrestricted. Patrick Space Force Base is located in Florida, where last month DeSantis signed into law a bill to ban abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. Rose Riley, a spokeswoman for the Department of the Air Force, which oversees the Space Force, did not directly answer when Military.com asked this past August whether the Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe was being considered in the basing choice. But Riley said at the time that officials were looking at how the issue affects the quality of life and options for all airmen and Guardians. "The Department of the Air Force is conducting site surveys at each candidate location to determine which is best suited to host STARCOM based on factors related to mission, infrastructure capacity, environmental considerations, cost, child care, housing affordability and access to military/veteran support," Riley said. She added, "Air Force leaders are working closely with the Office of the Secretary of Defense to review the impact on the force of the Supreme Court's recent ruling in Dobbs." -- Thomas Novelly can be reached at thomas.novelly@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @TomNovelly. Related: Could Access to Abortion Services Change Where the Military Stations Troops? President Joe Biden has nominated the Marine Corps' current assistant commandant, Gen. Eric Smith, to lead the service after the retirement of Gen. David Berger, according to the records of the Senate. If confirmed, Smith will take over the task of transforming and reshaping the Corps -- an effort broadly known as Force Design 2030 -- into an older, more mature island-hopping force aimed at countering China in the Pacific. The nod also comes amid a larger shake-up in the military leadership overall with several other senior officials set to retire. Gen. Charles "CQ" Brown Jr., the current chief of staff of the Air Force, has been named to take over for Gen. Mark Milley as the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, leaving the leadership of the Air Force and Space Force unfilled for the moment. Read Next: After 3 Years of Delays, Army Has Again Paused Rewriting Suicide Prevention Policies Gen. James McConville, the Army's top officer, is also set to retire and be replaced with Gen. Randy George. Although Smith began his career of more than 30 years in the Corps as an infantry officer, in recent years he's held jobs that put him at the heart of the massive revamping and rethinking of the storied branch of the military. Before taking on the No. 2 job, Smith served as deputy commandant for combat development and integration -- a position that meant he had a heavy role in designing and writing the policies and strategies that are finally being put into use. Broadly, the plan has seen the Corps shed much of the equipment that it used to fight battles such as Fallujah -- including all of the service's tanks and much of its artillery -- and instead pivot to new technology like drones, anti-ship missiles and high-tech training. The Marines have also strived to push the image of the Corps as a maritime service with a focus on amphibious operations. The effort has included the introduction of policies aimed at improving the quality of life for Marines and getting away from the "recruit and replace" model that it has operated under for decades. Smith has been at the heart of many of these changes and touted their success to both reporters as well as those inside the Corps. He's also been a vocal defender of the plans he's had a hand in creating from critics that have included his former peers. After a spate of editorials were written criticizing the changes in 2022 as a weakening of the Corps, Smith fired back, telling a ballroom full of people at an annual military convention outside of Washington, D.C., that the "ethos, war-fighting spirit, offensive nature, Marine air-ground task force, combined arms -- that doesn't change." "Anybody that thinks that's changed, you should go to Parris Island, or to MCRD [Marine Corps Recruit Depot] San Diego, or to Quantico," he added. Amy McGrath, a retired Marine pilot and onetime political candidate in Kentucky, called the selection of Smith "an excellent choice" in a Tweet. "To me, this also shows that [Biden] is on board with the reshaping of the Corps that has been initiated by the current [commandant]," she tweeted. Smith deployed twice to Iraq and once to Afghanistan in 2011 where he commanded a regiment of Marines in the deadly Helmand province. Officials who know Smith have also described him as having a deep caring and fondness for the average Marine. One service official said he was "a Marine's Marine." In past conversations with reporters, Smith has spoken strongly about his drive to lessen the burden of service for young troops. "Marines are going to be required to do very, very, very hard things on the modern battlefield, and that will always be paramount," Smith said in March. "Where we can lessen that burden on a Marine who's willing to fight and, if necessary, give their life for the Constitution, we should lessen that burden." That drive did land Smith, then the commander of 1st Marine Division, in hot water in 2018 amid a push to rid the unit of hazing. An appeals court judge ended up removing Smith, then a major general, as the oversight authority in the case of one Marine facing hazing charges after emails surfaced that, in the eyes of the court, showed that Smith had become too personally invested in the case. Smith's nomination will now need to be considered by the Senate, where it will likely be held up, along with every other military promotion, by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala. Tuberville has been delaying Senate confirmations of promotions for all one-star generals and admirals and above over his objection to the Pentagon's decision to cover travel and leave for service members seeking abortions and other reproductive health care. While current and former military officials have come out and publicly said the political move by Tuberville is hurting military readiness and service members' families, there is no indication that the hold will lift anytime soon. -- Konstantin Toropin can be reached at konstantin.toropin@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @ktoropin. Related: Marine 3-Star Hits Back at Claims that Corps' Future Design Is Too China-Focused A Navy pilot had to eject from a training jet and was rescued from the ocean near Key West, Florida, on Wednesday, according to the service. The F-5N aircraft went into the water about 25 miles from Boca Chica Field on Wednesday morning. The pilot was assigned to Fighter Squadron Composite 111, known as the "Sun Downers," based at Naval Air Station Key West, a Navy statement said. The base launched an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter and rescued the pilot, who was taken "to a Miami-area hospital for further evaluation," the service said. Read Next: Marine Corps' No. 2 Officer Tapped by Biden to Lead the Service Naval Air Station Key West is located on one of the final islands in the Florida Keys archipelago, close to the city of Key West and about 130 miles to 165 miles from Miami. The pilot, who has not been identified by the service, was flying a single-seater F-5N "Adversary Aircraft" -- a jet operated by the Navy to simulate enemy jets in training exercises. A website for the annual Key West Air Show noted that all of the pilots in the Sun Downers squadron "are former F/A-18 Hornet pilots and most are Top Gun graduates," referring to the prestigious Navy flight training school that draws the service's top pilots. The squadron is composed of both active-duty and reservist personnel. The Navy did not specify the status of the pilot in this incident. According to a Navy fact sheet, all of the F-5Ns in the Navy's possession were "low-hour" aircraft purchased from the Swiss Air Force in 2006 and 2020. The Navy has said that the cause of the incident will be investigated and promised to release more details as they become available. According to data from the Naval Safety Command, the Navy has had four "Class A" aviation mishaps to date this year. The term refers to an incident when the resulting damage is more than $2.5 million or it leads to death or serious disability. In January, a Navy jet crashed in Alabama during a training flight, but both pilots ejected and suffered no major injuries. In March and April, there were three aircraft that experienced issues while still on the ground. One incident was described simply as a "mechanical failure," another involved an F/A-18 jet being damaged by a jet blast deflector, and finally a P-8 Poseidon patrol aircraft blew out some tires on takeoff but managed to land safely. -- Konstantin Toropin can be reached at konstantin.toropin@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @ktoropin. Related: Pilot Error During a Fast Maneuver Blamed for F-35C Crash Aboard Carrier COLUMBIA, S.C. -- Nikki Haley's husband will soon begin a yearlong deployment with the South Carolina Army National Guard to Africa, a mission that will encompass most of the remainder of his wife's campaign for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. A formal deployment ceremony will likely happen in the next few weeks, a person with knowledge of Michael Haley's deployment told The Associated Press on Wednesday. This spring, the South Carolina National Guard called officers with his skill set to deploy in support of U.S. Africa Command, according to the person, who was not authorized to publicly discuss the deployment and spoke on condition of anonymity. It will be his second active-duty deployment since he joined the Guard as an officer in 2006. Nikki Haley, a former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor, has been highly critical of President Joe Biden's competency as commander in chief as she campaigns for the GOP nomination. She has spoken out against his administration's efforts to expand diversity in the military, complaining they were weakening the force and hampering recruitment, though the Army has said that the real problem is that many young people do not see enlistment as safe or a good career path. She has also pledged to make cuts in $46 billion in foreign aid to countries she says "hate America." While not directly confirming the deployment, Nikki Haley said in a statement to the AP that her family "is ready to make personal sacrifices when our loved one answers the call." "We could not be prouder of Michael and his military brothers and sisters," she added. Michael Haley, the candidate's husband of 26 years, has been a constant at his wife's campaign events since she became a White House candidate. He made his first overseas deployment in January 2013, when his wife was midway through her first term as governor, and their children were ages 10 and 14. "He left me as a single mom governor, but we're still married," Nikki Haley, who frequently mentions her status as a military wife, said of her husband during a campaign appearance a month ago in Greer, South Carolina. She went on to critique the Biden administration's chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. Returning from his 2013 deployment just before Christmas of that year, Michael Haley told the AP that his unit worked as part of an agricultural support team, helping Afghan farmers turn from growing opium to growing other crops profitable enough to sustain their communities. At the time, Haley's commander, Lt. Col. Todd Shealy, acknowledged there is always some danger when an individual in the public eye serves as a soldier in a combat region. "It does make him more of a target," Shealy said of Haley. "But there are some particular things to do to minimize that threat," he added, pointedly not defining what they might be. SEOUL, South Korea North Koreas attempt to put the countrys first spy satellite into space failed Wednesday in a setback to leader Kim Jong Uns push to boost his military capabilities as tensions with the United States and South Korea rise. After an unusually quick admission of failure, North Korea vowed to conduct a second launch after learning what went wrong with its rocket liftoff. It suggests Kim remains determined to expand his weapons arsenal and apply more pressure on Washington and Seoul while diplomacy is stalled. South Korea and Japan briefly urged residents to take shelter during the launch. The South Korean military said it was salvaging an object presumed to be part of the crashed North Korean rocket in waters 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of the southwestern island of Eocheongdo. Later, the Defense Ministry released photos of a white, metal cylinder it described as a suspected rocket part. A satellite launch by North Korea is a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban the country from conducting any launch based on ballistic technology. Observers say North Koreas previous satellite launches helped improve its long-range missile technology. North Korean long-range missile tests in recent years demonstrated a potential range that could reach all of the continental U.S., but outside experts say the North Korea still has some work to do to obtain functioning nuclear missiles. The newly developed Chollima-1 rocket was launched at 6:37 a.m. at the Norths Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in the northwest, carrying the Malligyong-1 satellite. The rocket crashed off the Korean Peninsulas western coast after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages, the Norths official Korean Central News Agency said. South Koreas military said the North Korean rocket had an abnormal flight before it fell in the water. Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that no object was believed to have reached space. North Korean media said the countrys space agency will investigate what it calls the serious defects revealed by the launch and conduct a second launch as soon as possible. It is impressive when the North Korean regime actually admits failure, but it would be difficult to hide the fact of a satellite launch failure internationally, and the regime will likely offer a different narrative domestically, Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, said. This outcome also suggests that Pyongyang may stage another provocation soon, in part to make up for todays setback. Adam Hodge, a spokesperson at the U.S. National Security Council, said in a statement that Washington strongly condemns the North Korean launch because it used banned ballistic missile technology, raised tensions, and risked destabilizing security in the region and beyond. The U.N. imposed economic sanctions on North Korea over its previous satellite and ballistic missile launches, but has not responded to recent tests because China and Russia, permanent council members now locked in confrontations with the U.S., have blocked attempts to toughen sanctions. Seouls military said it boosted military readiness in coordination with the United States, and Japan said it prepared to respond to any emergency. The U.S. said it will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and the defense of South Korea and Japan. South Korea's capital, Seoul, issued alerts over public loudspeakers and cellphone text messages telling residents to prepare for evacuation after the launch was detected, and Japan activated a missile warning system for Okinawa prefecture in southwestern Japan, in the rockets suspected path. Please evacuate into buildings or underground, the Japanese alert said. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada said Japan plans to keep missile defense systems deployed to its southern islands and in southwestern waters until June 11, which is the end of North Koreas announced launch window. KCNA didnt provide details of the rocket and the satellite beyond their names. But experts earlier said North Korea would likely use a liquid-fueled rocket as most of its previously tested long-range rockets and missiles have done. Though it plans a fuller investigation, the Norths National Aerospace Development Administration attributed the failure to the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system applied to (the) carrier rocket and the unstable character of the fuel, according to KCNA. On Tuesday, Ri Pyong Chol, a top North Korean official, said the North needed a space-based reconnaissance system to counter escalating security threats from South Korea and the United States. However, the spy satellite disclosed in the countrys state-run media earlier didnt appear to be sophisticated enough to produce high-resolution imagery. Some outside experts said it may still be able to detect troop movements and large targets such as warships and warplanes. Recent commercial satellite imagery of the Norths Sohae launch center showed active construction indicating North Korea plans to launch more than one satellite. In his Tuesday statement, Ri also said North Korea would test various reconnaissance means" to monitor moves by the United States and its allies in real time. With three to five spy satellites, North Korea could build a space-based surveillance system that allows it to monitor the Korean Peninsula in near real-time, according to Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Koreas Science and Technology Policy Institute. The satellite is one of several high-tech weapons systems that Kim has publicly vowed to introduce. Other weapons on his wish list include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. In his visit to the space agency in mid-May, Kim emphasized the strategic significance of a spy satellite in North Koreas standoff with the United States and South Korea. Easley, the professor, said Kim has likely increased pressure on his scientists and engineers to launch the spy satellite as rival South Korea successfully launched its first commercial-grade satellite aboard the domestically-built Nuri rocket earlier this month. South Korea is expected to launch its first spy satellite later this year, and analysts say Kim likely wants his country to launch its spy satellite before the South to reinforce his military credentials at home. After repeated failures, North Korea successfully put its first satellite into orbit in 2012, and the second one in 2016. The government said both are Earth-observation satellites launched under its peaceful space development program, but many foreign experts believed both were developed to spy on rivals. Observers say there has been no evidence that the satellites have ever transmitted imagery back to North Korea. __ Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report. RICHMOND, Va. -- The governors of Virginia, West Virginia and South Carolina on Wednesday joined a growing list of Republican leaders sending their state National Guard soldiers or other state law enforcement officers to the U.S. border with Mexico. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who is considered a possible presidential aspirant, announced an executive order directing the deployment of 100 Virginia National Guard soldiers and 21 support personnel. South Carolina's Henry McMaster and West Virginia's Jim Justice announced their deployments shortly thereafter, also in response to a request from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. The announcements bring to at least eight the number of Republican-led states deploying soldiers or offering other assistance in the weeks since Abbott appealed for help. "The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state," Youngkin said in a statement. "As leadership solutions at the federal level fall short, states are answering the call to secure our southern border, reduce the flow of fentanyl, combat human trafficking and address the humanitarian crisis." President Joe Biden announced in early May plans to send 1,500 active-duty troops to the border, in addition to the 2,500 National Guard members already there. Those military personnel were tasked with data entry, warehouse support and other administrative duties so that U.S. Customs and Border Protection can focus on fieldwork, the White House said. But the Virginia deployment and others from Republican-led states have specifically been in support of Texas' Operation Lone Star, which is separate from the active duty and National Guard troops working with the Customs and Border Protection. Abbott launched Lone Star in 2021, saying that the Biden administration was essentially welcoming illegal immigration. Critics have questioned the effectiveness of the multi-billion dollar operation. Some arrests, including for low-level amounts of marijuana during traffic stops, appeared to have little to do with border security, and some Texas National Guard troops initially complained of low morale, late paychecks and having little to do. Abbott's request this month came through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, which facilitates state-level mutual aid nationwide. Youngkin and McMaster also joined other governors in Austin last week to discuss border policies. McMaster's news release said South Carolina's mission is "in the planning phase," with a goal of deployment by July 1. Justice said he had approved the deployment of as many as 50 West Virginia National Guard soldiers and airmen for 30 days. Youngkin's order said the Virginia troops will answer to a military commander during a 30-day deployment, not any local civilian authorities. The operating cost of the mission is $3.1 million, spokeswoman Macaulay Porter said in an email. Youngkin, a former private equity executive who is barred under Virginia law from seeking a second consecutive term, is frequently mentioned as a possible 2024 presidential contender. He said earlier this month that he had no plans to launch such a bid this year. Presidential candidate and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is among the other governors who have announced plans to deploy Guard troops and other officers since Abbott's request was made. Mississippi, Iowa, Tennessee and Nebraska have also volunteered aid, and other GOP-led states have made similar deployments in recent years, part of the party's criticism of Biden's performance on the border. The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond Wednesday to a request for comment on the states' deployments. In Virginia, while some Republicans praised Youngkin's decision, the state's Democrats characterized the move as absurd, disingenuous or politically motivated. "Youngkin for President has officially jumped the shark -- our VA National Guard troops shouldn't be used to further presidential ambitions much less fight a MAGA culture war in Texas of all places -- Never thought I would see my state so compromised," tweeted state Sen. Scott Surovell. Associated Press reporters John Raby in Charleston, West Virginia; Jeffrey Collins and James Pollard in Columbia, South Carolina; and Rebecca Santana in Washington contributed to this report. Making a film, even an independent film, is an expensive venture. The average cost of a Hollywood movie is between $50 million and $100 million. Even on the lower end, a filmmaker is looking at a $10 million price tag. That's not to say it's impossible to do it for cheaper. Many movies made with a shoestring budget became blockbusters. "Rocky" was made for just $1 million, "Saw" had a budget of $1.2 million, and "Friday the 13th" was made for a paltry $550,000. None of these movies needed aircraft, tanks or hundreds of military personnel to work an aircraft carrier, though. The cost of operating a carrier is around $6 million to $8 million per day, which would eat up a budget pretty fast, so it's better to just borrow one for a bit. Luckily, the Department of Defense is more than happy to lend its gear out to filmmakers, and has been doing it for more than a century. All the filmmaker has to do is meet a few criteria, which includes accurately depicting the military, protecting sensitive information and giving the military some control over the movie. That measure of control doesn't always make a good film, but sometimes it does. Here are some of the best Hollywood movies made with help from the U.S. military. Black Hawk Down "Black Hawk Down" has everything anyone would ever want from a war movie. It's a real story, exhaustively researched by journalist Mark Bowden, directed by Ridley Scott, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and features an ensemble cast of stars and future stars. To make the action as realistic as possible, the Ranger actors took the Army's Ranger Familiarization Course at what was then called Fort Benning, the Special Forces actors took a commando training course at Fort Bragg, N.C., and the actors playing helicopter pilots were not only led in the movie by helicopter pilots from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, one of the Black Hawk pilots from the actual battle of Mogadishu was in the movie. To top it all off, the pilots received a lecture from Mike Durant, who was captured during the battle, during training at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Top Gun "Top Gun" might have been an entirely different and utterly forgettable movie had the filmmakers not wanted the help of the U.S. Navy. Where would the Navy be without the film that ushered in an entire generation of new naval aviators? The Navy not only cut a scene from the script where a plane crashes on an aircraft carrier's deck, the opening dogfight scene was moved from Cuba to international waters and Maverick's love interest, originally an enlisted female sailor, was changed to a civilian contractor. The greatest military movie love story was almost illegal under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. (Paramount Pictures) Red Dawn The original "Red Dawn" had a lot more punch than the 2012 remake, because Americans actually believed the Soviet Union might invade the U.S. The USSR is joined in its invasion by Cuba and Nicaragua. Essentially a "teenage Rambo" movie, local high school students take to the nearby mountains to launch a guerrilla war against communist invaders. Before the movie started filming, the cast that would become the Wolverines took an eight-week military combat training course. Though the movie makes the U.S. military look like amateurs compared to a group of teenagers, the Department of Defense still thought that some old-fashioned red scare wouldn't be the worst thing ever and supported the film. Apollo 13 The real Apollo 13 mission is the one that had to be aborted after an oxygen tank in the spacecraft's service module failed after two days. "Apollo 13" tells the story of how the astronauts miraculously returned to Earth largely unharmed. The movie is hailed as the most accurate NASA movie ever, and that makes sense, because it was based on Apollo 13 astronaut Jim Lovell's 1994 book "Lost Moon: The Perilous Voyage of Apollo 13." Lovell also not only appears in the movie, he helped train the actors, who all went to real-world Space Camp. Lovell trained them aboard simulated command modules and lunar modules, wearing the same gear the Apollo 13 astronauts wore, and even flew a simulated weightlessness mission aboard a KC-135 above Johnson Space Center in Houston. When it comes to American history, Tom Hanks doesn't do anything half-assed. (Universal Pictures) GoldenEye In Pierce Brosnan's first (and best) appearance as MI6 operative James Bond, he has to stop rogue former agent Alec Trevelyan from devastating London with a secret electromagnetic pulse satellite. Trevelyan has to steal a new French helicopter to do it. Stealing the helicopter meant Bond Girl Xenia Onatopp seduces and kills a foreign admiral to gain access. That admiral was supposed to be an American, but that didn't sit well with the DoD, so producers changed it to a French admiral. When the French protested, he became Canadian. In exchange, Bond and his latest Bond girl got to be rescued by real U.S. Marines at the end of the movie. Iron Man It makes sense for the Marvel Cinematic Universe's premiere defense contractor to get help from the Pentagon for his first movie. "Iron Man" needed a lot of help from the Department of Defense for the MCU's first and most important foundational movie. On top of getting access to $1 billion in military equipment, the film also got to shoot at Edwards Air Force Base, California. All they had to do was cut a few scenes and lines at the Air Force's request. For some reason, the Air Force didn't want to shoot down Iron Man. (Marvel) "Iron Man" isn't alone in the MCU for getting Pentagon approval. "Iron Man 2," "Captain America," "Captain Marvel" and others are so pro-military, they've been accused of being propaganda films and recruitment commercials. Without the success of the first "Iron Man," the MCU's 32 movies might never have been made. -- Blake Stilwell can be reached at blake.stilwell@military.com. He can also be found on Twitter @blakestilwell or on LinkedIn. Keep Up With the Best in Military Entertainment Whether you're looking for news and entertainment, thinking of joining the military or keeping up with military life and benefits, Military.com has you covered. Subscribe to the Military.com newsletter to have military news, updates and resources delivered straight to your inbox. Were roughly a third of the way through the 2023 season. Players have had a couple months to build something of a performance track record thatll play a role in their future contracts. With that in mind, MLBTR will take a look over the coming days at players whose contracts contain team or mutual options to gauge the early trajectory for those upcoming decisions. Well go division by division and open things in the National League West: Arizona Diamondbacks Chafin lingered in free agency over the winter after opting out of his deal with the Tigers. The seeming lack of market interest was perplexing given the lefty relievers consistent effectiveness over the past few seasons. Hes carried that over into his second stint in the desert. Through 20 1/3 innings, Chafin owns a 3.10 ERA. Hes punched out 36% of opposing hitters on a huge 16.2% swinging strike percentage, both of which would be career-high marks. Hes not a prototypical fireballing reliever but hes demonstrated hes capable of missing bats and thriving in high-leverage situations for the past few years. The $6.5MM net decision on next years option looks more than reasonable if he keeps this up. Davies has been limited to three starts by a left oblique strain. He has allowed eight runs with a modest 10:8 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 12 2/3 innings. Theres not much to go on yet in terms of 2023 performance but Davies looked like a borderline fifth starter the previous two years. The Diamondbacks have enough young pitching they seem likelier to buy him out unless the soft-tossing righty rediscovers his 2019-20 form for the stretch run. Castro has already pitched 26 times since signing with Arizona over the winter. Hes on pace to easily surpass the 60-appearance threshold needed to vest next years $5MM option if he can avoid the injured list. It could be a closer call as to whether he can turn that guaranteed $5MM salary into a $6MM player option; Castro has finished 12 games thus far, putting him just off the 40-game pace hed need to do so. (Hes on pace for 36 games finished). Castro has been effective a 2.22 ERA with roughly average strikeout, walk and swinging strike numbers through 24 1/3 innings so vesting the player option and retesting the market isnt out of the question. Melancon struggled to a 4.66 ERA in 56 innings during his first season in Arizona. He hasnt pitched this year on account of a Spring Training shoulder strain. Melancon might return in the second half but this is trending towards the team buying him out. Colorado Rockies Marquez underwent Tommy John surgery earlier this month. Hell miss the majority of next season as he rehabs. A healthy Marquez wouldve made this an easy call for the Rockies to exercise but the procedure means theyll buy him out. It wouldnt be a surprise if the Rox try to bring him back on a lesser salary or a multi-year deal with an eye towards 2025. Hands peripherals had fallen back between 2021-22 from his All-Star peak. Hes continued to keep runs off the board and seen a notable bounceback in his strikeout rate since a Spring Training deal with Colorado. Hand owns a 3.20 ERA through 19 2/3 frames while striking out 33.7% of batters faced on a decent 11.6% swinging strike percentage. The veteran southpaw has dominated left-handed hitters and is yet to allow a home run this season. If he maintains this form, hell be one of the top reliever trade candidates this summer. If Colorado hangs onto him, they could be faced with an interesting decision as to whether to keep him around for an extra $6.5MM next winter. Los Angeles Dodgers The Dodgers signed Muncy to a $13.5MM deal last summer even as he was amidst his worst season since landing in L.A. Theyve been rewarded with a massive bounceback showing. Muncy is tied for second in the majors with 17 home runs. Hes only hitting .208 but carrying a strong .340 on-base percentage thanks to an elite 15.8% walk rate. The $10MM price point would be an easy decision for the Dodgers if Muncy keeps up anything approaching this pace. Los Angeles brought Hudson back last summer on the heels of a season-ending ACL tear. The veteran reliever hasnt recovered as quickly from that procedure as hed hoped. Hudson hasnt pitched yet this season. He told reporters last night hell throw a bullpen session this week but is without a timeline for a return to game action (via Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times). It remains to be seen how hell look when he takes the mound. The Dodgers took a $1.1MM flier on Reyes after he lost the 2022 season to shoulder surgery. Hes on the 60-day injured list and not expected to be a factor until around the All-Star Break. This one remains to be determined based on his post-rehab form. Treinen underwent surgery to repair the rotator cuff and labrum in his throwing shoulder last November. He wont pitch much, if at all, this season. Treinens contract contains an option with a floating value between $1MM and $7MM depending on how much time he spends on the injured list and the issue that puts him on the shelf. Its precise value is yet to be determined, but MLBTR has confirmed itll land towards the lower end of that range given Treinens surgery. San Diego Padres Martinez has taken on a similar swing role as he served during his first year in San Diego. The right-hander started his first four outings and pitched reasonably well. He was nevertheless bumped back into relief thereafter. For the second consecutive season, Martinez has proven a key multi-inning arm out of the bullpen. Hes posted a 1.35 ERA with a quality 20:4 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 20 relief innings, holding opponents to a pitiful .240/.278/.267 batting line. Theres little question of Martinezs effectiveness in a relief role, though a $16MM average annual value could be pricy if the organization isnt planning on giving him another look out of the rotation. Perhaps Martinezs production over the final four months makes this a clearer decision for San Diego by seasons end. As of now, it looks like a borderline call not too dissimilar from Martinezs question of whether to opt out of three years and $18MM last winter. The Padres liked him enough to subsequently re-sign him to a $26MM guarantee with the complex option structure. Wacha lingered in free agency last winter. Clubs seemed reluctant to buy into his solid results for the Red Sox, a reflection of middling strikeout and ground-ball numbers. Since landing in San Diego, hes basically repeating last years script. The run prevention is excellent; hes allowed a 3.45 ERA through 57 1/3 innings over ten starts. Wacha is again throwing strikes and keeping runs off the board despite roughly average strikeout and swinging strike rates. Maintaining a mid-3.00s ERA for a second straight season might build confidence in his ability to outperform ERA estimators that suggest hes more of a solid #4 starter than a mid-rotation arm. That said, Wacha doesnt look all that different now than he did three months ago, when he signed a four-year guarantee with a $6.5MM average annual value. A jump to the $16MM per-year range could be a tougher sell for San Diego, although theres little doubt Wacha would opt out of the final three years and $18.5MM on his contract if he keeps pitching like this and the Padres decline their end. San Francisco Giants Cobb has pitched well since signing a two-year deal with San Francisco over the 2021-22 offseason. He carries a 3.05 ERA through his first 11 starts this year. Cobbs 60.6% ground-ball rate is stellar and hes posted average strikeout and walk numbers (21.3% and 6.7%, respectively). An $8MM net decision would be an easy call for the Giants to exercise if Cobb maintains this pace. Hes dealt with injuries in the past but managed 149 2/3 innings over 28 starts last year and has avoided the IL in 2023. All stats through play Monday. The Tigers announced that they have acquired outfielder Jake Marisnick from the White Sox in exchange for cash considerations. Marisnick wasnt on Chicagos 40-man roster and wont require a corresponding move. Marisnick, 32, first appeared in the majors almost a decade ago, debuting in July of 2013. Hes spent most of that time as a glove-first outfielder, generally hitting at a below-average rate while providing good defense and some speed. In over 2,000 plate appearances in his career, hes hit .228/.281/.384 for a wRC+ of 80 while walking at a 5.4% rate and striking out 30.1% of the time. But hes stolen 79 bases while also tallying 76 Defensive Runs Saved, 48 Outs Above Average and a mark of 22.9 from Ultimate Zone Rating. He signed a minor league deal with the White Sox this winter and was added to the big league squad about three weeks ago. He was primarily utilized as a defensive replacement, appearing in nine games but with just a pair of trips to the plate. He was designated for assignment last week when the club selected Clint Frazier, then cleared waivers and accepted an outright assignment. The Tigers had their outfield depth thinned a bit today, as Matt Vierling was placed on the injured list, joining fellow outfielders Kerry Carpenter and Austin Meadows. Marisnick will presumably head to Triple-A Toledo and provide the club with a veteran option to turn to if they suffer another injury. The Tigers announced that they have placed left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez on the 15-day injured list and infielder/outfielder Matt Vierling on the 10-day injured list. The former has a left index finger pulley rupture while the latter is dealing with a low back injury, with both moves retroactive to May 29. Right-hander Braden Bristo and infielder/outfielder Tyler Nevin have been recalled in corresponding moves. The absence of Rodriguez will be an unfortunate one for the Tigers, as the lefty has been out to an excellent start this year. He has a 2.13 ERA through his first 11 outings, a figure that would easily be the best of his career, which is the 3.81 mark he posted in 2019 with the Red Sox. Hes had a bit of luck from a .253 batting average on balls in play and 83.3% strand rate but his 6.1% walk rate is on pace to be the lowest of his career and his 25.5% strikeout rate is a bit above his career 24% rate. That excellent campaign will now be put on pause and it seems unlikely he will be able to return after the 15-day minimum. A detailed injury report from the Tigers, relayed by Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press, says that Rodriguez will rest for seven to days before being re-evaluated for a throwing program. That seems to suggest hell need at least a small ramp-up after that rest. For however long hes out, the club will need to find another starter to join Michael Lorenzen, Matthew Boyd, Alex Faedo and Joey Wentz in the rotation. Finding a replacement will be a bit tricky given the clubs other injuries, as staters Matt Manning, Tarik Skubal, Casey Mize, Beau Brieske and Spencer Turnbull are each already on the IL themselves. Reese Olson and Garrett Hill are on the 40-man roster, though each has an ERA above 5.00 in Triple-A this season. Non-roster options include Rony Garcia, Ashton Goudeau and Zach Logue, though they each have a Triple-A ERA of 4.97 or higher this year. The club has an off-day on Thursday but will need a solution at some point this weekend. Rodriguez has also been floated as a speculative trade candidate for this summer on account of his strong season. Thats complicated by a couple of factors, one is the weak American League Central division. Despite a 25-27 record, the Tigers are in second place in the division and just two games back of the Twins. If they are able to hover around that level, trading one of their better players would be a tough sell. Its also complicated by his contract, which allows him to opt out after this season when he will have three years and $49MM remaining on the deal. His strong season was putting him on track to trigger that opt-out, thus making him a rental. However, the three remaining years would give pause to any acquiring club, as they would have the downside of remaining on the hook for that money if Rodriguez got hurt or underperformed after a trade. Such options and opt-outs generally make trades tricky and that would have been the case for Rodriguez. This injury will only add a further layer of complication on any future trade talks. As for Vierling, he was acquired from the Phillies this offseason and has received regular playing time from the Tigers, appearing in 46 of 52 games thus far. Hes hit .241/.297/.352 for a wRC+ of 82 while stealing four bases and bouncing to all three outfield spots as well as brief stints at second and third base. Its unclear how long hes expected to be out of action but its possible that utility players like Nevin and Zach McKinstry get some more playing time next to outfield regulars Riley Greene and Akil Baddoo. Forty-three Michigan counties have agreed to return what will likely be tens of millions of dollars from the sale of foreclosed properties to those properties former owners, settling a class-action lawsuit filed in 2014. The issue in the case was the fact that foreclosed properties frequently sell at auction for more than what is owed in unpaid taxes and fees, and, for years, Michigan counties habitually kept the surplus. The plaintiffs argued that keeping that money violates the U.S. Constitutions takings clause, which says private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation. In the years since and across numerous cases, both the federal courts and Michigan courts have upheld that basic argument. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously last week in favor of a Minnesota woman whose condominium was sold for $40,000 to satisfy a $15,000 tax debt. The settlement agreement, which received preliminary approval in March, will obligate the counties on the western side of the state and most of the counties in the Upper Peninsula to return 80 percent of the surplus from the sale of foreclosed properties between 2013 and 2020. The total amount returned will depend on how many former property owners or their heirs file claims in the case by Aug. 7, but preliminary estimates from country treasurers speak to a total dollar figure somewhere in the tens of millions. Its a win for the people that have lost their property because they now have a means of getting that surplus back, said Ronald Ryan, an attorney with Lewis Reed & Allen, one of the firms representing the plaintiffs. Its a win for the counties because it ends the endless litigation. Ted Seitz, an attorney with Dykema who is representing the counties, said the payouts shouldnt be more than they can handle. They wanted to find a pathway to get these cases behind them, he said. Wayside Church The case began with a church camp about 13 miles north of Dowagiac. James Shek, an Allegan attorney, was at a foreclosed property auction in Van Buren County in the summer of 2014, hoping to bid on a piece of property. What he saw, according to Ryan and Owen Ramey, another Lewis Reed & Allen attorney, was the camp owned by Wayside Church, a small congregation on Chicagos south side, being sold for more than $200,000 to pay of a debt of less than $17,000. It seemed like a clear-cut case under the takings clause. He reached out to the church. Reginald Hill, a deacon with Wayside Church, said the congregation had fallen behind on the property taxes for the camp after the elders who knew about this and were in charge passed away. Everything was dwindling down, he said. Even now, the congregation is fighting a legal battle to retain their main building. But the money from the settlement, which could be paid out as early the end of the year, is a chance to revitalize the church, he said. Millions Treasurers from most of the 43 counties either didnt respond to requests for information on the estimated cost of the settlement or said it was too early to know. But, among those who did respond, the expected costs ranged from less than $650,000 to nearly $4 million. Mason County on the Lake Michigan coast would pay just over $637,000 if every former property owner eligible to receive a payment filed a claim, said county Treasurer Andrew Kmetz. In Delta County in the Upper Peninsula, it would be just under $710,000. Ingham County, which includes Lansing, could be liable for more than $3.9 million, though Treasurer Alan Fox guesses the actual payouts will be closer to $2.5 million. The specific image people have [of foreclosure] is Grandma being evicted from the house that her family has owned for generations and losing all the money, Fox said, and he grants that there are such cases. But the reality is often more ambiguous, he said, including everything from investors who made a business decision not to pay property taxes to properties whose ownership is ambiguous. Following a Michigan Supreme Court decision in a Rafaeli LLC v Oakland County three years ago, the state legislature created a mechanism for those who lost their properties to foreclosure to claim any excess revenue from the sales. Since then, roughly a third of the money paid out since has gone to banks and other investors, in part because the banks are better geared up to keep track of things and make applications, Fox said. Calhoun County could be liable for more than $3.4 million, said Treasurer Brian Wensauer. The sad part, he said, is that the county is stuck covering the cost of demolition and cleanup on the parcels that sell for less than minimum bid. The surplus from foreclosure sales was once used to cover those cost. Other litigation The case, known as Wayside Church v. Van Buren County, is the second case on this issue to settle in Michigan. Oakland County agreed to settle a similar lawsuit for $38 million last year. There is still an outstanding case concerning Wayne County, which has foreclosed on more than 100,000 properties in the decade before the law changed. Another multi-county class-action lawsuit, which included most of the counties on the eastern half of the state, was dealt a setback last month. The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that it could not proceed as a class action because the plaintiff, Thomas Fox, had only had property foreclosed on in Gratiot County and not in the other 26 counties included in the lawsuit. The suit will be able to proceed in Gratiot County, but, without named plaintiffs in the other counties, the future of those cases is unclear. For more information on the settlement, go to www.taxforeclosuresettlement.com DETROIT A man was injured, and his dog was killed in a shooting spurred by a child custody dispute on Tuesday, May 30, in Detroit, police said. Detroit police officers responded Tuesday to a reported shooting on Murray Hill Street, WJBK reports. Upon arrival, they found an injured man and dead dog at a residence. The victim was taken to a local hospital and is expected to recover. His identity has not been released. Investigators believe the victims ex-girlfriend, with whom he has a child, and her boyfriend came to the victims home, the report said. An altercation then led to the shooting. The suspects fled in a green Dodge Journey, the report said. Police are searching for them. Their identities have not been released. GRAND RAPIDS, MI-- Hundreds gathered downtown for a parade and ceremony to commemorate those who died while serving in the United States military. The parade stepped off from Division Avenue under the I-196 overpass at 6 p.m. The parade headed south to Fulton Avenue, then east to Veterans Memorial Park where a remembrance ceremony was held. Retired Navy Capt. Paul Ryan and Veteran of the Year 2022, Dean Decanter, spoke before keynote speaker Sean Murphy took the podium. Although Murphy is not a veteran himself, he volunteers hundreds of hours a year to help veterans programs in the area. His father, Paul Murphy, served in the Marines during the Vietnam War, was injured in battle and was awarded a purple heart. He died in 2001 at the age of 53 and Paul has volunteered over the years to honor his father, he said in his speech. Eric Nelson, commander of United Veterans Council Kent County, talked about the importance of Memorial Day before the parade kicked off. This is a somber day to think of those we lost, Nelson said. He said there were no advertisements in the parade, something intentionally done to keep the focus on those who died while serving the United States. During the ceremony three gold star families put flowers at the Vietnam and Iraqi Freedom statues in the park to remember their lost loved one. Music for the event was made possible by the West Catholic marching band. The United Veterans Council Kent County chooses to celebrate the holiday on May 30th of each year, the traditional day that Memorial Day was celebrated before 1971. Memorial Day was first nationally observed on May 30, 1868, originally known as Decoration Day to honor Union soldiers who died in the Civil War. 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. Also on MLive: See photos from the Greater Muskegon Memorial Day parade 2023 Walker police officer involved in off-duty shooting in Chicago When to look for Junes full Strawberry Moon this week 2 ejected from motorcycle in West Michigan crash It was 25 years ago today that a historic derecho raced across Michigans Lower Peninsula, leaving a path of destruction and killing four people. Michiganders woke on Sunday, May 31, 1998, to find snapped trees, downed power lines and even collapsed buildings in some of the hardest-hit areas, according to National Weather Service records. The wreckage spanned hundreds of miles. In addition to the four deaths, 146 people were injured. Find a video compilation of the storm here. In this file photo from the Great Lakes Derecho of 1998, downed trees are seen around damaged graves at the Spring Lake Cemetery.Ken Stevens The squall line of thunderstorms, also known as a derecho, had an average speed of 70 mph with a wall of winds between 60 and 130 mph, NWS said. It first touched Michigan at 4:45 a.m. and had crossed the peninsula by 8 a.m. Five tornadoes developed in Northern lower Michigan. The storm began in South Dakota and continued to New York, but of all the regions affected by the derecho, the greatest damage and the greatest number of casualties occurred in Lower Michigan, NWS said. Total damage was estimated to be $172 million (1998 U.S. dollars), NWS said. Approximately 250 homes and 34 businesses were destroyed, and more than 12,000 homes and 800 businesses were damaged. In this file photo from the Great Lakes Derecho of 1998, fallen trees are seen at a home in Fruitport, Mich.Ken Stevens About 860,000 customers lost power. In some locations, power was not restored for up to 10 days, NWS said. Besides the losses of hundreds of power poles and lines, five of Consumers Energys transmission towers were blown down between Ludington and Grand Rapids. The massive towers were designed to withstand continuous winds up to 90 mph and gusts up to 110 mph. READ MORE: Snowfall in U.P. ends with historic late-season storm that takes one spot over 300 inches DNR reveals cause of 136-acre wildfire that forced evacuation of Michigan campground Mama swan taken from New York pond was killed, eaten by people on Memorial Day Summer gas rules: What are they and whos affected in Michigan? Manlius, N.Y. A mother swan taken from Manlius was killed and eaten on Memorial Day, according to a source familiar with the investigation. Manlius police said on Tuesday that the swan had been killed and announced three people were charged. An 18-year-old from Syracuse was arrested in connection with the killing of Faye, the mother swan, said Manlius police Sgt. Ken Hatter. A 16-year-old and a 17-year-old, both from Syracuse, were also arrested, he said. The source Tuesday afternoon told Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard the swan was eaten by one of the teens family. The swan, Faye, and her four babies were stolen from the pond, said Manlius Village Mayor Paul Whorrall. The last time they were seen was Saturday by a village employee who was tending to flowers in the area, he said. The babies, or cygnets, were found and are in good health, Manlius police said Tuesday. Two of them were found at a store in Shop City Plaza in Salina and the others were found in a home in Syracuse, police said. Manlius police and state Department of Environmental Conservation officers were seen at a home on Lilac Street in Syracuse Tuesday morning. An officer there told Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard the baby swans had been recovered. State Department of Environmental Conservation officers talk to other police officers at a house on Lilac Street on the North Side of Syracuse on Tuesday, May 30, 2023 as they investigate swans missing from the Manlius Swan Pond. (Rylee Kirk | rkirk@syracuse.com) The cygnets are currently in the care of a biologist, who oversees the health and well-being of the swans for the village. Multiple citizens called in tips to the police that helped the baby swans be saved, police said. The DEC police and the Syracuse Police Department are also investigating. The oldest teen and the juveniles were charged with: Third-degree grand larceny, a felony Second-degree criminal mischief, a felony Fifth-degree conspiracy, a misdemeanor Third-degree criminal trespass, a misdemeanor The two juveniles were released to their parents on appearance tickets. The 18-year-old was taken to centralized arraignment to await his arraignment. Manlius police ask anyone with information to contact them at (315) 682-2212. MACOMB COUNTY, MI A Michigan man has been charged with the murder of his half-sister. Zachary Holston III, 50, of Farmington Hills was arraigned Tuesday for second degree murder, a life felony, and felony firearm, which carries a two-year mandatory prison sentence. Holston is accused of shooting the woman following an altercation outside the family business in Sterling Heights on May 26. He was allegedly walking toward his vehicle when he was approached by the victim, her husband and daughter in the parking lot. A physical altercation allegedly occurred over paperwork located in the vehicle, leading to both parties drawing firearms. They exchanged gunfire and the victim was later pronounced dead at the hospital. This is not the way for family to settle family business. Gun violence will never be tolerated in Macomb County, said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido. All disputes must be settled civilly between parties in or out of the courtroom, not on the streets. The loss of a life is always a profound tragedy, and it is especially disheartening when it occurs within the bonds of family. We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by this devastating event, as they navigate through an unimaginable grief and loss that no words can adequately express. Thank you to the Sterling Heights Police Department who swiftly responded to this incident, ensuring that the responsible party was apprehended and will face the full weight of the justice system. Holstons bond was set at $500,000 with conditions of a GPS tether with home confinement, a mental health evaluation and no contact with the victims family or business. A probable cause hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. on June 8 and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. on June 15. KENT COUNTY, MI A woman is threatening a lawsuit after she says she was forced to remove her hijab, a traditional Islamic head scarf, for a booking photo at Kent County Correctional Facility. The 22-year-old Grand Rapids woman on Tuesday, May 30, filed notice of a claim against Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young and the Sheriffs Department. She was forcibly stripped of her head covering, according to a statement provided by the Council on American Islamic Relations Michigan, or CAIR-MI. A similar case in U.S. District Court in Detroit ended with an undisclosed settlement earlier this year against the City of Detroit and state Department of Corrections. Attorney Amy Doukoure, who represented the plaintiff in the Detroit case, is also representing the Grand Rapids woman. She told MLive/The Grand Rapids Press that if her client cannot quickly reach an agreement in the Kent County case, she likely would sue in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan. The woman was arrested April 8, accused of assault and/or domestic violence, according to the notice of claim. She identified herself as a practicing Muslim wearing a traditional Muslim headscarf when she was brought into the booking area. Claimant, despite her pleads and protests, and her identification as wearing a religious headscarf, and despite Kent County Sheriffs policies to the contrary, was indeed forcibly stripped of her hijab in front of members of the opposite sex, including male officers, in a manner that violates her clearly established sincerely held religious belief, Doukoure wrote. Indeed, it was a male officer sitting in the same room as her, who told the female guard to force claimant to remove her hijab while he and other male employees remained at all times in the same room and in plain view of the claimant. She said that that photograph was taken of her client without her hijab, which created a permanent public record accessible to the public and other law-enforcement agencies. Doukoure said that jail staff took an image of her client wearing her hijab but uploaded a hijabless photograph to the sheriffs website. The woman was later released without charges, the attorney wrote. The Sheriffs Department did not immediately respond to the notice. Read more: Former state Rep. David LaGrand announces run for Grand Rapids mayor Michigans weather this week: Searching for a rain and searching for a swimsuit DNR reveals cause of 136-acre wildfire that forced evacuation of Michigan campground ANN ARBOR, MI - A pair of new street closures are coming to an area near the University of Michigans central campus to pave the way for further construction on a new 13-story high-rise. Both East and South University avenues will see new traffic restrictions beginning 7 a.m. Monday, June 5 to allow for a workspace and material holding site on the in-progress Vic Village South project, city officials say. The project, across the street from the existing 12-story Vic Village North development, is expected to cater to UM students, bringing 127 apartments and ground-floor commercial space just a stones throw from campus. Beginning Monday morning, East University Avenue will close in both directions between South U and Willard Street. Eastbound South U also will close between Tappan Avenue and Church Street, extending an existing long-term closure of the street at the block that has played host to the construction site for more than a year. The new set of restrictions is set to last until Friday, July 14, according to the city. A series of detours will be put in place around the construction. Northbound East University traffic will be routed east on Hill Street, then north on Church Street to South University. Southbound traffic will take Tappan Avenue south to Hill Street, then head east to East University. Eastbound South U traffic will detour south on Tappan, east on Hill and north on Church back to South U. Access to businesses and driveways will be maintained during the closures, as will pedestrian traffic on the west side of East University Avenue, officials say. The closures will join existing streets projects, including work on Geddes Avenue, a project on Glen Avenue, an ongoing overhaul of State Street downtown and more construction slated to begin June 1 to the south. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. More from The Ann Arbor News: Where to celebrate Pride Month in Washtenaw County Woman pulled from Huron River remains in critical condition Mini roundabout, new sidewalks coming with start of 5-month Ann Arbor streets project 500-member trade worker union reaches deal with University of Michigan Update: This story was updated to reflect an additional sexual assault reported to the Ann Arbor Police Department. ANN ARBOR, MI -- Police are investigating two indecent exposure incidents and two sexual assaults reported on North Campus on Tuesday. A woman reported someone had approached her from behind around 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 30, near a parking lot on University of Michigans North Campus in the area of 2100 Hubbard Street. He groped her through her clothing before she struck him in the face with her umbrella, according to University of Michigan police. A similar report was made to the Ann Arbor Police Department. A 23-year-old woman reported that around 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 30, an unknown man walked up behind her and grabbed her left hip while on the 1700 block of Broadway Street, according to the Ann Arbor police. The man then walked away and got into a gray sedan that was parked on the street. Around 4:30 p.m. the same day, a woman was walking near the same parking lot when an unknown man approached her, according to university police. The man was stimulating himself with his genitals exposed. He left the area in a black or dark blue sedan. Shortly after, another woman reported she was walking in the same area when she was a man looking at her from a vehicle. When she got closer, the man exited the car with his pants around his knees and approached her with his genitals exposed and stimulating himself. He then returned to his vehicle and left the area in a light yellow or silver sedan. Three of women are University of Michigan students. Police believe all the incidents were committed by the same person. Anyone with information about the incidents is encouraged to reach out to the University of Michigan Police Department at 734-763-1131 or Det. John Buehler at jbuehler@umich.edu. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter. Read more from The Ann Arbor News: Mini roundabout, new sidewalks coming with start of 5-month Ann Arbor streets project Puberty blockers, surgery for trans minors could be a felony for Michigan doctors A hedge fund bought Michigan mobile home parks. Things fell apart. FLINT, MI -- Bishop Airport has announced a detailed lineup of performers and vendors for Wings Over Flint, the first air show in the area in more than 30 years. The show -- planned for June 24-25 -- will include air performances by the US Army Golden Nights, the Czech-Mate Jet Team, Northern Stars Aeroteam, Manfred Radius, and Vampire Airshow. The Golden Knights are one of only three Department of Defense-sanctioned aerial demonstration teams -- along with the Navy Blue Angels and the Air Force Thunderbirds, according to the Armys website. The team is composed of approximately 95 men and women and includes four parachute units and an aviation unit. It uses five dedicated aircraft, performing at more than 100 events annually. After a long absence from performing in the Flint area, aviators are excited to return to the area for Wings Over Flint, Nino Sapone, chief executive officer of Bishop, said in a news release from the airport. This historic air show will be a thrilling event for the community while also celebrating aviation in a unique and exciting way. Sapone announced Wings Over Flint in October and airport officials have said in promotional materials since then that they expect to draw more than 20,000 visitors to Flint on each day of the show. Related: Wings Over Flint will bring air show back to Bishop Airport in 2023 Flints air shows were historically popular annual events at the airport, featuring aerobatics and hot-air balloon races in the past, according to Flint Journal files. Dennis Floden, a Flint insurance executive who became the first world hot-air balloon champion, was among those involved in the shows, which were held from 1974 until 1990, missing only 1983 during that time span. The shows attracted a peak crowd of 110,000 in 1980 but attendance dropped to 24,000 by 1990 and the event lost $55,000 in its final year, airport officials have said. In addition to the air performers, this years show includes static aircraft displays by Crosswinds Aviation, the armed forces, and the Tuskegee Airmen National Museum. Gates open at 9 a.m. each day of the show and tickets must be purchased in advance with general admission tickets each day priced at $20 per person. Children 5 and younger are admitted for no charge. Tickets are available for purchase through the airports website. Food trucks serving up eats at the event are Northern Smoke BBQ, Redwood, Cheese Trap, Kona Ice of Saginaw, and Cops and Robbers Ice Cream. No outside food, beverages or coolers will be allowed on the airport grounds, according to Bishops website, and parking will be located at the north-east parking areas of Genesee Valley Shopping Center with Flints Mass Transportation Authority providing transportation to the show. The airport said there is no on-site general admission parking. A full list of performers, vendors, sponsors, and food trucks can be found at wingsoverflint.com. Read more at The Flint Journal: Brick by brick, Flints massive Saginaw Street reconstruction is right on schedule Flint councilman asks mayor for thorough review of DDA credit card purchases Genesee County will pay more in effort to keep medical examiners from leaving Want more Flint-area news? Bookmark the local Flint news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Flint daily newsletter. GRAND RAPIDS, MI A busy Grand Rapids underpass is getting a colorful makeover. Local arts group Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts is planning to paint the underpass pillars under I-196 on Division Avenue as well as the retaining wall leading up to the underpass from Michigan Street. Plans call for a bright, multi-color display with different solid color blocks adorning the underpass pillars. Hannah Berry, executive director of Lions & Rabbits, said theyre aiming to have the mural installed by July 4. The project is awaiting a final sign-off by City Manager Mark Washington. Berry said the artwork not only will help create a sense of place but that it also aims to increase pedestrian connectivity between Creston Neighborhood to the north with downtown. Weve been really looking at the connectivity of Leonard and Plainfield to the downtown and how do people from Creston walk to downtown, Berry said. City leaders on May 23 signed off on a resolution with the Michigan Department of Transportation, which owns the underpass, that paved a way for the mural. Art plays a crucial role in enlivening cities and fostering a sense of place, Asante Cain, assistant to the city manager, wrote about the mural in a memo to commissioners. Murals, in particular, can transform ordinary spaces into vibrant, engaging, and culturally rich environments. They have the power to inspire creativity, celebrate diversity, and promote a sense of community and belonging. Neither the city nor MDOT are funding the work and maintenance of it. Lions & Rabbits is paying for the project, with a good amount of the funding coming from Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. How long the mural will remain up still remains to be worked out, Berry said. Given that it is a larger work, she said Lions & Rabbits would be interested in keeping the mural up for more than three years. Read more on MLive: Former state Rep. David LaGrand announces run for Grand Rapids mayor Michigans weather this week: Searching for a rain and searching for a swimsuit When will student loan payments resume if debt ceiling bill is approved? Is forgiveness still an option? GRAND RAPIDS, MI Grand Rapids police are holding a community meeting June 6 around the proposed purchase of drones. The Grand Rapids Police Department is proposing to buy six drones at a cost of $100,000, with additional costs for video storage and training. Usage of drones by police departments isnt new to West Michigan, with other departments in Holland and Walker as well as the Kent County Sheriffs Office already using them. The meeting Tuesday, June 6, will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at LifeQuest Church, 1050 Fisk Road SE. It will be livestreamed on the cty of Grand Rapids on Facebook and YouTube channels. Police Chief Eric Winstrom and Office of Oversight and Public Accountability (OPA) Director Brandon Davis will give brief presentations before taking questions from the audience and online via Facebook comments. Questions can also be submitted in advance by emailing GRPDinfo@grcity.us. The presentations will go over the role of OPA in oversight of the proposed police drone program and how GRPD intends to protect privacy, ensure proper use of the equipment and use this technology to help support public safety. We wanted to go above and beyond the administrative outreach requirements to be clear with the community about the ways we plan to useand not usedrone technology in support of public safety, Winstrom said. The citys revamped policy on acquiring and using surveillance technology only requires a public hearing be held, which one was on April 25, prior to a purchase request of the technology. The chief and other GRPD members have participated in a number of neighborhood association and community meetings on the proposal, police officials said. In a letter submitted and read to the Grand Rapids City Commission on May 16, officials with the West Grand Neighborhood Organization called for a pause on purchasing the drones. The neighborhood organization said they support the departments proposed use of drones but want to ensure there is more public engagement and a good policy in place that provides accountability and transparency. Related: Grand Rapids neighborhood association asks for pause on proposed police drones purchase Winstrom has said he envisions officers using drones in a reactive capacity to incidents. The situations in which a drone might be used include dangerous and reckless driving, river drowning and rescue, apprehension of a fleeing felon, accident scene reconstruction, crime scene documentation, missing persons search, civil unrest and large gatherings where an aerial view is necessary to ensure safety and minimize the number of officers involved on the street, Winstrom wrote to commissioners in an April 11 memo. City Manager Mark Washington has said drones could also be used to monitor protests that arent permitted and are potentially interfering with roadways. Any subsequent changes to the departments drone use policy following a potential purchase sign-off by commissioners would require additional approval by city leaders, the chief previously said. The variety of uses, police officials previously said, would result in departmental efficiency, augmentation of limited staffing and increased officer and public safety. Thermal cameras equipped to drones would aid in finding hiding suspects and missing persons. While there are concerns around overcollection of data and privacy issues associated with drones, Winstrom has said those issues would be mitigated by training, policy, accountability and the additional layer of having the citys Office of Oversight and Public Accountability audit the program. Read more on MLive: Busy I-196 underpass to get colorful makeover in Grand Rapids Pulitzer Prize finalist author visiting Grand Rapids bookstore Festival of the Arts returns to Grand Rapids, kicking off the summer June 2 A hedge fund bought Michigan mobile home parks. Things fell apart. GRAND RAPIDS, MI A Pulitzer Prize finalist author is in Grand Rapids tonight promoting his new book. Luis Alberto Urrea will be at Schuler Books at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 31 to sign copies of his new book and meet with fans. The new book, Good Night, Irene, was released Tuesday. The book is based on the true story of Urreas mothers service as a Donut Dolly for the American Red Cross during WWII. Donut Dollies were a group of volunteer women who served coffee and donuts to military troops close to the front lines of some of the foremost WWII battles. Also known as the ClubMobile Corps, the Donut Dollies went through basic training, then served coffee and donuts to troops out of trucks, three women to a truck. When Urreas mother died in 1990, she left her letters and scrapbooks to him. After looking through the letters, Urrea and his wife found one of his mothers truckmates lived less than two hours away from him. Urrea connected with the woman and the two became good friends. When she died at the age of 102, that woman also gave Urrea her scrapbooks and WWII letters. Along with honoring his mothers memory, Urrea hopes the new book underscores womens heroism during WWII, which is often overlooked. Good Night, Irene, was recently announced as the Barnes & Noble National Book Club pick for June. Urrea was a Pulitzer Prize finalist for his nonfiction book, The Devils Highway. The event at Schuler Books, located at 2660 28th St. SE, is free. Copies of Good Night, Irene, will be on sale for $29. Registration for the event is recommended at schulerbooks.com. Some of Urreas other books include The Hummingbirds Daughter and The House of Broken Angels. He lives outside Chicago and teaches at the University of Illinois Chicago. He is also a recipient of an American Academy of Arts and Letters Award and was a National Book Critics Circle Award finalist. 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. More from MLive: Former state Rep. David LaGrand announces run for Grand Rapids mayor New Korean street food restaurant opening in West Michigan Triathlete graduate perseveres while mom battles cancer GRAND RAPIDS, MI One Michigan college was by far the most popular post-high school destination for Class of 2022 graduates in the Grand Rapids area last year. Can you guess which one it was? Grand Rapids Community College was the top pick for high school graduates in Kent County last year. Nearly 27%, or 1,037, of all college-bound students in the area went on to become GRCC Raiders after high school. Grand Valley State University came in at No. 2, enrolling 13% of all college-bound grads in Kent County, followed by Michigan State University at 10%. Just over half of all high school graduates in Kent County enrolled in college within six months of graduation last year. There were 3,807 college-bound students out of the 6,683 high school graduates in the Class of 2022, according to data from the state. In total, Kent Countys Class of 2022 grads attended 312 different colleges this year. Below is a list of the top 15 colleges for last years high school grads. (Cant see the pie chart? Click here.) GRCC was the No. 1 college pick in every school district in Kent County except one: East Grand Rapids Public Schools, where MSU was the top pick. GRCC came in at No. 4 at EGR. The Grand Rapids and Godwin Heights public school districts had the largest percentages of students attending GRCC, with nearly half of all college-bound students going to the community college. After GRCC, the other top four college destinations in Kent County were GVSU, MSU, Ferris State University and the University of Michigan. The top out-of-state school was Purdue University, with 21 students from Kent County. Here is a map showing how many students from each district in the Kent Intermediate School District attended the top five colleges and universities. (Cant see the map? Click here.) Here are the top five districts with the most college-bound students compared to how many total graduates they had in the Class of 2022. Forest Hills Public Schools: 87% of the Class of 2022 went to college. There were 661 college-bound students out of 758 high school grads in 2022. East Grand Rapids Public Schools: 86% of the Class of 2022 went to college. There were 192 college-bound students out of 223 high school grads in 2022. Rockford Public Schools: 68% of the Class of 2022 went to college. There were 386 college-bound students out of 561 high school grads in 2022. Caledonia Community Schools: 67% of the Class of 2022 went to college. There were 226 college-bound students out of 336 high school grads in 2022. Byron Center Public Schools: 65% of the Class of 2022 went to college. There were 187 college-bound students out of 286 high school grads in 2022. Check out the table, below, to see which schools students from each Grand Rapids-area district picked for college. Click on the district name to sort by district, or search college names in the search bar. (Cant see the table? Click here.) More on MLive: Triathlete graduate perseveres while mom battles cancer Grand Rapids pools and splash pads will reopen soon 5 benefits of Michigan school buses going electric Summer camps offer hands-on career exploration to 6th-9th graders BROOKLYN, MI After almost nine years of setbacks and delays, parts of the Old Irish Mill are at last open to the public. Daniel Ross, owner of TransPharm PreClinical Solutions bought the former Ford Motor Co. plant at 221 Mill St. in Brooklyn in 2014, with plans to turn it into an attraction. After some setbacks and several changes to the plans, a marijuana dispensary and the Irish Hills Chamber of Commerce have finally moved into the historic building. The building has been empty for so long, that once people actually have a chance to get inside these doors and see what Ive done on the inside, I think theyre shocked, Ross said. Hydrobudz and the chamber of commerce have moved into a 5,000-square-foot space on the left side of the building. Both moved in a few weeks before their official grand opening Friday, May 26. Related: Peek Through Time: Brooklyn shared in Henry Fords dream of small, hometown factories These are just two businesses for the Old Irish Mill. The project also calls for a large event space inside the 30,000-square-foot building, something that appealed to the Irish Hills Chamber of Commerce, which had always planned to move into the building, Chamber President/CEO Cindy Hubbell said. The chamber had been operating at 124 S. Main St. but wanted to move to keep up with its continued growth and growth of the community, Hubbell said. Related: From sawmill to Old Irish Mill, here are tenants of historic Brooklyn site The chamber hopes to use the currently unbuilt event space for future, larger events, such as beer tastings or an Irish festival, she said. The event space will be managed by the chamber and can also be used for weddings. We need a location, but a lot of it also is, were going to be having events, and being tied to an event center that holds over 300 people is going to be really big for us, Hubbell said. Hrydobudz was not a part of the buildings original plans, but when one of the owners approached Ross about moving to the location, he said he agreed to lease a space to them to get the project moving. Original plans called for the Old Irish Mill to open in 2016, but lack of funding and the COVID-19 pandemic slowed down renovations and rebuilding, Ross said. Plans for the building also have changed over the years, Ross said. Previously, the space was to have a skating rink, a bakery and a deli. Ross also wanted to tear down the buildings warehouse section. The scope of those plans changed after several banks raised concerns about the number of businesses in the project, and that Ross had no experience running them. Related: Banks turn down $10 million Old Irish Mill, developer alters approach Ross also decided to keep the warehouse after Hydrobudz came into the picture, he said. We were trying to figure out ideally on this current footprint where they would fit, Ross said. Realistically, the best spot for them, is the building I was going to tear down. So, it all really worked out. Along with the event space, current plans for the first floor are a microbrewery, a demonstration kitchen, storage space and a cafe called Sams Dam Cafe. Plans for the second floor include an Irish restaurant, named Henrys Irish Mill in honor of Henry Ford, and an Irish pub, Ross said. Parking lots will be added, along with a farmers market across the street. Ross plans to open the restaurant and the pub first, Ross said, but when that happens is dependent on funding. Related: Old Irish Mill added to National Register of Historic Places, to receive $1.1 million Previous estimates called for the project to cost between $2.5 million and $5 million. However, Ross said that estimate from 2018 has grown. He said he is looking to apply for RAP grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for up to $5 million to cover some of these costs. If the grant is approved, Ross said he expects the rest of the construction to begin in the fall, with everything wrapping up, hopefully, in 2024. But, this also depends on everything moving smoothly, he said. All the stars would absolutely have to align and be sparkly, if we get all the funding we need, Ross said. Updates and more information can be found on the Old Irish Mills Facebook page. More from the Jackson Citizen Patriot: 2 men arrested trying to steal catalytic converters from UPS trucks near Jackson Homeless aid program helped more than 300 people in 3 months, Jackson report states Fish, food and carnival rides: Get ready for the 2023 Carp Carnival Road closure to impact southbound U.S. 127 in Jackson County Alro Steel celebrates 75 years, will Chick-fil-A come to town and more Jackson County business news VAN BUREN COUNTY, MI A former police chief is accused of stealing and selling drugs. Now-retired Hartford Police Chief Tressa Beltran, 57, was arraigned on Wednesday, May 31, on eight felonies and one misdemeanor in Van Buren County District Court. KALAMAZOO, MI -- As students prepare to leave school for summer vacation, the support professionals union at Kalamazoo Public Schools is preparing to negotiate its next contract. Joanna Miller, president of Kalamazoo Support Professionals said shes managing (her) expectations for what could come from the bargaining sessions. Contracts are made every three years to establish wages, benefits and rights for bus drivers, office professionals, paraprofessionals and Montessori Teaching Assistants in the district. I wouldnt use the word hopeful, (I would say) determined and resolute, Miller said. Higher wages are a top priority. Wages need to be livable and comfortable, which cant be done with a 2% or 3% increase, Miller said. The base starting wage for a district paraprofessional is $12.58 an hour while the starting wage for a bus driver is $14.60, according to the contract. Related: Kalamazoo Public Schools approves $230,000 contract with new superintendent Both paraprofessionals and bus drivers can receive a yearly raise, called a step increase, if they receive a satisfactory evaluation, per the 2021-2023 contract. The maximum wage for paraprofessionals is $21.31 while the maximum wage for a bus driver is $18.76. Its not equitable, it doesnt even make basic common sense, Miller said. A living wage in Kalamazoo County for a single adult with no children is $15.69, according to the Massachusetts Institute of Technologys living wage calculator. A living wage is a minimum subsistence wage, drawing the line between the financial independence of the working poor and the need to seek out public assistance or suffer consistent and severe housing and food insecurity, according to MIT. To offer a living wage at its starting rate, KPS would need to increase that rate by 24.7% for paraprofessionals and 7.5% for bus drivers. Kalamazoo Public Schools declined to comment on open negotiations. At the current pay rate, Miller said she makes roughly $24,000 a year and wouldnt be able to live anywhere decent if she didnt have roommates. Others in the district arent as lucky, and some end up homeless, Miller said. In previous bargaining sessions, Miller said the attitude from the district is What do you give us for this? At this point, Miller said theres nothing to give. What do you want, what do you think we have to give you? Miller said. Want more Kalamazoo news? Our 3@3 newsletter rounds up Kalamazoos top stories every weekday at 3 p.m. Enter your email to get our free newsletter: In order to move forward, Miller said individuals need to step outside of the old ways. We have to end this school of thought that the dregs of the budget get down to the people who ... without (them) the district doesnt move, Miller said. Negotiations need to start from the standpoint of acknowledging the inequitable position the union is bargaining from, Miller said. She hopes conversations at the bargaining table will be better with a new superintendent in charge. Darrin Slade from Hazelwood Public Schools near St. Louis, Missouri, was recently selected as the districts next superintendent following the resignation of former superintendent Rita Raichoudhuri. The resignation, which was announced immediately after the board agreed to retention bonuses for all staff members, came as a shock to the union. Slades term will start on July 1. Miller said she expects Slade will be reaching out to the union soon. More on MLive Kalamazoo County student named 1 of Michigans 2 Presidential Scholars for 2023 WMU brings Jurassic era to life with Dinosaur Park expansion plans Michigan school district announces $10,000 pay increase for teachers UPDATE: The Miss Kit Sune Cabaret Show was rescheduled to June 30. An earlier version of this story was published before the rescheduled date. The report now reflects the update. SAGINAW, MI Despite drag shows increasingly growing as a subject of heated political discourse, Amor Marrosa said he and his fellow drag performers will proudly celebrate their lifestyle publicly as Pride Month approaches in June. The 24-year Saginaw man will organize Miss Kit Sunes Cabaret Show from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Friday, June 30, at Macs bar, 207 N. Hamilton in Saginaw. Tickets, which range from $20 to $40, remain available online. The event originally was scheduled for June 1 before organizers rescheduled the show. We wanted something to say, Were still here and were still living with joy, said Marrosa, who will perform and host the show in the titular role of Miss Kit Sune. Along with five drag performers, the cabaret show will feature live music from transgender musicians, a raffle and an allies pageant that will feature friends of the LGBTQ+ community competing in drag, Marrosa said. Its going to be a fun, upbeat experience that has a political pulse that is important but lite, he said. It will have music that touches the soul and makes you feel good, and performers that engage with you and make sure youre having a great time. Drag shows and performers have received a heightened level of scrutiny in recent years as the lifestyle has become a focus of political debate nationally, including in Michigan. For example, as recently as last year, Republican lawmakers from Michigan proposed policy banning drag performers from schools despite no evidence that educational institutions in the state were hosting such performances. A lot of times, we take for granted just how important it is to show up in the face of adversity, said Marrosa, a drag performer for eight years. A lot of times, when we come under attack, it becomes easier to hide or to cower. Its important that we show up and continue to show that this is a community of love and joy that celebrates people accepting one another. Want more Bay City- and Saginaw-area news? Bookmark the local Bay City and Saginaw news page or sign up for the free 3@3 daily newsletter for Bay City and Saginaw. Read more on MLive: Beloved for its strawberry shortcake, festival will return to Saginaw Township Attendance at new, 334-acre Saginaw park off to fast start, officials say Michigans longest-serving flight nurse to retire after 34-year sky-bound career SAGINAW, MI A federal judge has ruled two Saginaw police officers violated a civilians constitutional rights when they entered his home and arrested him on suspicion of vandalizing several buildings. Beyond that, the judge found the city has failed to adequately train its officers on what justifies a probable cause arrest. Saginaw resident David W. Little in May 2021 filed a federal lawsuit against the city of Saginaw and Saginaw Police Officers Steven Lautner and Jordan LaDouce. The lawsuit states Little was in his apartment in the 600 block of Holden Street on Jan. 5, 2020, when the two officers knocked on his door. The officers arrived at Littles door by tracking a set of footprints from the Surgical Disciplines Building at 912 S. Washington Ave., where someone had thrown a rock through a window, the lawsuit states. At least one other nearby building also sustained a broken window. The distance between the surgical building and Littles apartment is about three-tenths of a mile, according to Google Maps. In footage recorded by the officers body-worn cameras, Little stands in his doorway as he tells the officers he was sleeping. Do you have some shoes that you might be wearing outside that we tracked to your door? one of the officers asks. As Little groans and turns around to look, the officers enter the apartment. One officer indicates a pair of shoes match the treads of those they were tracking. The officers then quickly tell Little to put his hands behind his back and arrest him on a charge of malicious destruction of property. Little was in jail for five days, bonding out on Jan. 10, having been arraigned on two misdemeanor vandalism charges. More than a year later, on April 20, 2021, prosecutors dismissed their case on the grounds that proper identification of the defendant could not be produced. The dismissal came during a bench trial. At least one witness had been sworn-in before the dismissal was issued, meaning jeopardy was attached and Little cannot be recharged. Attorney John C. Clark, representing Saginaw and its officers, in February 2023 filed a motion seeking to have Littles lawsuit dismissed. Littles claims that the officers unlawfully entered his home, arrested him, and used excessive force in violation of the Fourth Amendment were without merit, Clark wrote. Rather, Little invited Lautner and LaDouce into his home, after which they arrested him due to finding probable cause, Clark wrote. The officers arrested Little without using force, he continued, adding the officers were protected by qualified immunity. U.S. District Judge Thomas L. Ludington declined to grant Clarks motion, writing on May 19 that Lautner and LaDouce did indeed violate Littles civil rights. In the opening paragraph of his 21-page ruling, Ludington stated a person who called 911 to report the vandalism described the scofflaw as a Black man, while Little is white. Ludington went on to say the officers entry into Littles apartment was unlawful and they lacked probable cause to arrest him. Furthermore, Ludington wrote the city is responsible for the police chiefs policy on establishing probable cause and for failing to train its officers on determining probable cause. Police may enter a civilians home when the resident clearly gives consent, if they have a warrant, or during an emergency. The judge wrote the officers body-worn camera footage conclusively forecloses any claim of consent. Consent for officers to enter a home must be given knowingly, voluntarily, and intelligently, the judge wrote. Just asking Little if he had shoes in his home does not suffice, Ludington concluded. Groaning, leaving your door open, and retrieving something from your house are far from the clear and positive nonverbal conduct required to infer unrequested access, Ludington wrote. At best, Little acquiesced once he realized Lautner was already inside which is not consent. Additionally, the exchange between Little and the officers occurred in a coercive circumstance, the judge wrote. Lautner and LaDouce further did not have a reasonable semblance of probable cause that Little committed a crime, Ludington continued. They merely surmised Little had been at the crime scene, he continued. The judge went on to write the city has delegated the police departments policymaking authority to Police Chief Robert M. Ruth. The chief in January 2017 issued an Arrest, Search, and Transport Policy to its officers, though Lautner and LaDouces supervising sergeant previously testified officers are not trained on new law-enforcement policies. Basically, those policies get issued, the sergeant testified, as quoted in Ludingtons ruling. You read them off and you have to sign off that you read them. Thats as far as our policies go. Lautner and LaDouce also testified they were not trained on how to assess probable cause, Ludington wrote. Simply put, the City of Saginaw does not provide any training to its police officers for searching or arresting people without violating the very core of the Fourth Amendment, Ludington wrote. There is no question that the cause of (Little)s injury was Saginaws failure to train Defendants on how to determine probable cause, to establish an exception to the warrant requirement, or to effectuate the Policy properly. Near his conclusion, the judge wrote Saginaws failure to train its officers constitutes deliberate indifference, given the need for training is obvious. Neither Lautner nor LaDouce faced disciplinary action stemming from Littles arrest, Ludington added. The trial for Littles lawsuit is slated to begin Dec. 5 in the federal courthouse in downtown Bay City. Want more Bay City- and Saginaw-area news? Bookmark the local Bay City and Saginaw news page or sign up for the free 3@3 daily newsletter for Bay City and Saginaw. Read more: Saginaw man files civil rights lawsuit against city, 2 police officers Saginaw residents arrested with Molotov cocktails had planned to burn down home, prosecutors say Saginaw teen charged after allegedly shooting at police, robbing 2 stores, stealing 6 vehicles Teen arrested after shooting at Saginaw police, numerous armed robberies Complaints detail overcrowding, ailing cats at Amazing Grace Animal Rescue in Saginaw County SAGINAW, MI On a brisk January afternoon, a 20-year-old Saginaw man rode his skateboard to what he thought was a friends house, planning to play video games, listen to music, and hangout. What he experienced instead was a waking nightmare of torture and debasement, he claimed. At the hands of several others, he was stripped of his clothes, bound with duct tape, burned, whipped, stomped, and threatened with a revolver. Adding to the horror was that he was not alone in his mistreatment: a teen had been held captive and similarly brutalized by the group since the day beforehand, he claimed. The bizarre scenario only ended when the bloodied young man took desperate action, launching himself through a glass window and running to a nearby police officer. The man shared his account during a May 31 preliminary examination for two of the four people accused of abusing him Mitchell J. Ballard, 20, and Jontorrion L. Reed, 21, who both began the hearing facing one count each of armed robbery and assault with intent to cause great bodily harm. The other two codefendants, Mykia M. Dawkins and Graceeana M. Granger, both 17, are charged as adults with two counts of armed robbery, four counts of felony firearm, and single counts of unlawful imprisonment and assault with intent to cause great bodily harm. Dawkins and Granger waived the prelim and Saginaw County District Judge M. Randall Jurrens bound their cases over to Circuit Court. Before the witness testified, Saginaw County Assistant Prosecutor Shellbe A. Sanborn noticed MLive was in the courtroom and asked Jurrens to prohibit publication of the civilian witnesses names. For expediencys sake, they will be referred to by numbers throughout this article. Witness One testified he went to Ballards house at 616 S. Granger St. about 2 p.m. on Jan. 6. He referred to Ballard as an old school buddy, saying he had known him for years. When he arrived, Ballard, Reed, Dawkins, Granger, and a 17-year-old male were present. The teen had a bloodspot in his eyeball, had been shaven bald, and bore wounds to his head, arms, and chests, the witness said. The witness said he asked Dawkins why they were harming the teen. At that point, Reed drew a revolver and ordered the witness into a bedroom. Witness One went into the bedroom as instructed, where the quartet stripped him of all his clothes save his boxer shorts and socks, he said. They also took his iPhone7 and divvied up the spoils among themselves, he said. The quartet then ordered their teen captive to start beating him, he said. They made (him) start everything, basically, Witness One said. They convinced him that if he involved himself with the actions he would be let go, along with other tactics, whatever you want to call it. He looked at me and said, Im sorry, and then continued to punch me in my head, my ribs, kick me. After that, Reed, Ballard, Dawkins, and Granger began kicking and punching him, he said. Sometimes they were stomping on my skull, he said. It all happened so fast, but I know every single hand touched me. They all instigated it, but Jontorrion was the main leader of it. During the hearing, Ballard sat slumped in his seat, his face downcast. Reed was more fidgety, often smirking, shaking his head, and looking incredulous at witnesses testimony. Dawkins took a phone charger and heated its metal prongs with a torch, then held them to Witness Ones arm. One of the group also put a marijuana roach out on his arm, he said. The group proceeded to wrap duct tape on his feet, hands, and mouth, he said. Ballard then told him to stand on the bed and face the wall, only for him then to be whipped with a suitcase strap, he said. Later, the group had their two captives sit in the living room as Reed Facetimed people on his phone. Look how I got people, Reed told those he was Facetiming, Witness One said. Those were his exact words. Shortly thereafter, Reed and Ballard left the house. Just before exiting, one of them handed the revolver to Dawkins, who put it in her waistband, Witness One said. Witness One tried communicating with his eyes to the captive teen that they should make a break for it, he said. The teen was reluctant to act, but Witness One opted to take his chances, he said. I stood up and pencil dove out the window, he said. If Im not mistaken, there were two windowpanes I went through. A window at 616 S. Granger St. which a 20-year-old man claimed he dove through to escape torture he was enduring at four others' hands. With his mouth and hands still taped his foot restraints had come off he took off running to Saginaw Police Sgt. Nicholas Jacobs, who was on a nearby traffic stop. Witness One told Jacobs what he had endured and the sergeant had him sit in his patrol vehicle. Witness One said he then saw Dawkins, Granger, and the captive teen exit the house and start walking away. He pointed them out to Jacobs, he said. Taken to a hospital, the teen learned he suffered a concussion. Months on, he said he still suffers from trauma and visions of the ordeal. Cross-examined by Ballards attorney Kelly D. Ellsworth, Witness One said he felt he would have been shot if he had attempted to leave earlier, though he did not think Ballard would have been the shooter. Concussion, still suffering trauma and visions of the ordeal. Cross-exam by Ellsworth. Was not intoxicated or drugged beforehand. Did not see Ballard with the gun. I felt if I had left I would have got shot. Caveat, didnt believe Ballard would have shot him. Defense attorney William D. White, representing Reed, asked if the revolver bandied between the defendants was loaded. As far as I know, every chamber had a bullet in it, he replied. You could see the bullets. Later in the hearing, the teen Witness Two testified he went to Ballards house the day before, Jan. 5. Ballard, Reed, Dawkins, Granger, and another male were present when he arrived, he said. All was initially fine and they smoked weed and drank some alcohol, then the mood turned. We were talking, then it all just happened, the teen said. Im not sure what caused it. He said Reed stripped him of his clothes, after which he and Ballard shaved his head with scissors and an electric razor. The group then burned him with a torch and heated charger prongs and wire, he said. The group also burned his sweatpants due to there being blood on them, he added. At some point, Ballard allowed him to shower to wash away the blood, then gave him replacement pants and a shirt, he said. At some point, the third male left the house. He has not been identified by police. Though the man was not bound, he did not feel he could leave, he said. He spent the night there and was still present when Witness One arrived the following afternoon. I tried telling him he had to get out before it happened to him, Witness Two said. (Reed) said if I wanted to be able to go home, Id have to beat up (Witness One). If I didntthe gun. So, I did it. When Witness One leapt through the window after Ballard and Reed had already left, the teen was taken outside by Dawkins and Granger as they looked for the escapee, he said. Moments later, police came upon them, he said. Several Saginaw police officers testified to their various roles in the investigation. Sgt. Jacobs said Witness One was bloodied but not bound in duct tape when he ran to him yelling for help. When Witness One pointed out Dawkins, Granger, and Witness Two walking nearby, Dawkins fled, Jacobs said. Mobile Medical Response arrived to treat the victims in the parking lot of a nearby Rite Aid before taking them to a hospital, Jacobs said. Officer Megan Nelson and her K-9 partner Krixus responded to the scene and began tracking Dawkins. They soon found and detained her, also finding a revolver in her path, Nelson said. Police arrested all four suspects the night of Jan. 6. The hearing ended with Sanborn adding four counts of felony firearm and single counts of conspiracy to commit armed robbery and unlawful imprisonment in both mens cases. Judge Jurren then bound Reed and Ballard over to Circuit Court for trial. Want more Bay City- and Saginaw-area news? Bookmark the local Bay City and Saginaw news page or sign up for the free 3@3 daily newsletter for Bay City and Saginaw. Read more: Two Saginaw men accused of holding others captive, brutalizing them, to undergo psych evals Teen girls face more charges than male codefendants in alleged robbing, torturing of two males Saginaw men accused of keeping 2 males captive, robbing and torturing them Billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban told Michigans business and political elite on Mackinac Island Wednesday that embracing diversity and inclusion is just good for companies bottom line. Call me woke you dont need to call it DEI, you can call it whatever you want I call it good business, Cuban said. It means taking the people that youre selling to and making sure your workforce looks like them, and making sure you can reflect their values and being able to connect to that. Thats what works for me. The Dallas Mavericks owner was at the Grand Hotel for an on-stage conversation with KC Crain at the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerces annual Mackinac Policy Conference. Cuban primarily relayed anecdotes and lessons from his business career, but also had some colorful language for the politicians in attendance, advising them to focus on kitchen table issues. He is convinced some of the furor over some brands public promotion of inclusion would blow over in time. Your constituents wake up in the morning They dont think about Bud Light, they dont think about Target. They dont think about any of the shit on the other side, either, Cuban said. They think about how theyre going to live their lives or whats gonna get them satisfaction. He took issue with the current primary system of selecting major candidates in the U.S. How we select our candidates is a mess, and if thats a mess, everything, all that shit flows downstream, he said, placing blame on the bubbles created by social media and bemoaning we pay so much attention to the voices that sound like garbage. He threw a jab at former President Donald Trump in contrasting their business styles. Theres some people who have a lot of money that like to build buildings, put their name on them, get arrested, Cuban said before laughing. Ive never put my name on anything before but I want people to know that this was important to me, he said, referring to his online-only pharmacy business Cost Plus Drugs. Cuban also weighed in on artificial intelligence and the impact he believes itll have on business, the potential of which he deemed exciting and terrifying. I dont care if you have 1,000 or 2,000 or 5,000 employees, you better understand how artificial intelligence is going to impact your business operations, Cuban said. He called large language models like ChatGPT amazing, but expressed concerns about its ability to communicate accurate information. In order to really use it well, you have to have the domain knowledge to know whats real and whats not, Cuban said. Read more on MLive: Some Michigan businesses are buying housing to secure their workforce For a day, this tiny park was Michigans capital city Black swallowtail could be Michigans first state butterfly $4 million food stamp fraud ring leads to 3 arrests in Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel told MLive in an interview shed like the legislature to require dark money accounts, widely used by politicians in Michigan, to fully disclose their sources of fundraising and spending. Its my profound hope they are able to make some progress, because well never change anything in Lansing, and frankly, the people of our state have every right to be concerned that their state government doesnt truly represent them until we make some of these changes, Nessel said. Nessel was prompted to explore the issue in part by her departments investigation into former House speaker Lee Chatfield, who left office in 2020. Hes the subject of a wide-ranging probe that has encompassed allegations of sexual assault, embezzlement, bribery and campaign finance violations. A Nessel spokesperson said they intend to conclude that investigation, which began in early 2022, by the end of the year. I came into this job thinking that the influence of dark money was substantial and corrosive to government, Nessel told MLive in an interview. My opinion of that now is perhaps ten-fold of what it was when I came into office. For Nessel, the lessons from the investigation have centered on the use of 501(c)(4)s, financial vehicles officials considered social welfare organizations but regularly used by politicians as to raise money in unlimited amounts, often from sources banned under campaign finance laws. One account linked to Chatfield spent nearly $500,000 on travel and food alone in 2020. It doesnt have to disclose its donors or who benefitted from the spending. While she declined to discuss specifics of the investigation, Nessel said shes working with the legislature on the overall broad themes that were seeing in the areas of great concern. She wants to see lawmakers shed some light on the accounts. My hope is to work with them to ensure that, even though we cant stop money from coming into a particular entity, and we cant necessarily stop the spending of that money, we can know who that money is coming in from and where that money is going in a way that is much more detailed and specific than were allowed to now, Nessel said. Both Nessel and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson have called on lawmakers in recent weeks to increase transparency in politicians finances and the money they raise in secret. Benson in particularly wants to see the states lax lobbying laws become more stringent. Legislators are required by law to implement 2022s Proposal 1, which mandates state politicians to file financial disclosures, but it remains unclear how revealing they will ultimately be. Go Deeper: Will Michigans financial disclosure law reveal politicians long-hidden perks? Its up to them. House Speaker Joe Tate, D-Detroit, told MLive that while lobbying in Lansing has largely been business as usual under a Democrat-run legislature, we have to make sure that were being a trusted steward of the institution. Michigans public utilities have endured more scrutiny in recent years after a series of storms repeatedly left residents in the dark for days. PACs representing employees of the states two largest utilities, DTE and Consumers Energy, are also some of the states largest political donors. Nessel said utilities status as regulated monopolies means the public should be afforded even a greater amount of transparency than we would have with any other type of entity. Related: Utilities built major influence in Michigan politics. Could ice storm outages erode it? Anything that the legislature has to do a very intensive review of what laws should apply to them, perhaps differently than other corporate interests, based on the fact that we dont get to make a choice when it comes to (our utilities), Nessel said. Read more on MLive: Some Michigan businesses are buying housing to secure their workforce For a day, this tiny park was Michigans capital city Black swallowtail could be Michigans first state butterfly $4 million food stamp fraud ring leads to 3 arrests in Michigan Puberty blockers, surgery for trans minors could be a felony for Michigan doctors Michigan businesses are in search of employees, but a lack of affordable homes for workers means some companies are getting into the housing game. A panel at the 2023 Mackinac Policy Conference Tuesday afternoon centered on how businesses, looking to recruit and retain talent, are increasingly addressing housing as a barrier to their own growth. Housing and the lack of it is one of the difficult challenges businesses are facing in the north, said Bob Sutherland, CEO of Glen Arbor-based Cherry Republic. We arent creating businesses in the north right now because we just dont have the workforce, we just dont have the young people. Related: Michigans housing market is in crisis. Climate change could make it worse. Cherry Republic has been purchasing homes in Glen Arbor to house its seasonal employees Sutherland said they have 50 beds to accommodate summer employees. According to the Northwest Michigan Rural Housing Partnership, businesses are spending an average of $2,500 per employee on housing in that region of the state, which has faced a longstanding housing shortage. Amy Hovey, the executive director of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, said the move can be profitable for the businesses that choose to step in. They really are needing to do that to find places for their employees to live but theyre also making money off of the housing, Hovey said. So when were talking about how businesses can get involved in housing, were not asking for charity, right? Were asking for investment. Related: Vacation homes eat up inventory, deepen income divide in this Michigan county Other employers are offering down payment assistance in a bid lure workers. Michigan has added an additional $50 million a year in affordable housing as part of a tax deal signed earlier this year. Panel member Jared Fleisher, the top lobbyist for Dan Gilberts Rocket Companies, said the state should place incentivizing new housing construction at the top of that list of how to use its multi-billion-dollar budget. One firm in the Rock Companies conglomerate, Bedrock, has become the largest holder of real estate in downtown Detroit. Rocket Mortgage is also a major home mortgage lender. Fleischer said entry into real estate was spurred on by the companys return to downtown Detroit and the realization that they needed housing to bring employees back to the city. But Fleisher and public officials alike, such as Donald Rencher, who leads housing, planning and development for Detroit city government, are advocating for more ways to finance affordable housing, It is not only policy, but putting a down payment where your mouth is, Rencher said. Read more on MLive: For a day, this tiny park was Michigans capital city Black swallowtail could be Michigans first state butterfly $4 million food stamp fraud ring leads to 3 arrests in Michigan Puberty blockers, surgery for trans minors could be a felony for Michigan doctors With red flag laws signed, whats next for Michigan Dems and gun policy? Tesla will open its network of 12,000 Superchargers in the United States and Canada to Ford electric vehicle drivers by spring 2024. The two automakers announced the agreement last week which will nearly double the number of fast chargers available to Ford customers. Ford Motor Company already has 10,000 fast chargers with its BlueOval Charge Network. Ford President and CEO Jim Farley says the agreement gives customers unprecedented access to chargers across North America. Widespread access to fast-charging is absolutely vital to our growth as an EV brand, and this breakthrough agreement comes as we are ramping up production of our popular Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, and preparing to launch a series of next-generation EVs starting in 2025, Farley said in a statement. Tesla will develop an adapter for Ford F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E and E-Transit vehicles to gain access to the V3 Superchargers. Starting in 2025, Ford will equip its electric vehicles with a North American Charging Standard charge port to eliminate the need for an adapter. The BlueOval Charge Network has 84,000 chargers including the 10,000 fast chargers. Ford says adding the 12,000 Tesla Superchargers creates the single largest integrated fast-charge network in the United States and Canada that is designed to reduce charge anxiety. Michigan and Canada announced plans earlier this month to develop the first bi-national electric vehicle corridor. The 860-mile corridor will stretch from Quebec City to Kalamazoo offering charging options at least every 50 miles. And Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proposed $65 million in the state budget to develop an electric vehicle charging infrastructure throughout the state. Ford dealers are also adding another 1,800 public fast chargers to the BlueOval network by early next year. More on MLive: Michigan and Canada plan abundant EV charging across bi-national corridor Michigan manufacturer poised to fill EV gaps as U.S. onshores charging Faster-charging EV tech to be manufactured in Michigan Kid Rock and his No Snowflakes tour is making stops in Detroit at Little Caesars Arena in July and tickets can be had for about $20. But act fast -- tickets are flipping quick and theres no guarantee how long that $20 price will hold. Stubhub prices are starting at $18 up to $2,700. Vivid Seats tickets will cost you from $17 to $8,500. Ticketmaster prices range from $59 to $250. Kid Rock recently releases $75 reserved seats in Youngstown Ohio for the July 29 Y-Live concert, featuring Lee Brice, according to Businessjournaldaily.com. Kid Rock and his No Snowflakes tour with will make stops July 14-15 in Detroit and July 29 in Youngstown, Ohio. No stranger to controversy, Rock recently inserted himself in the Bud Light controversy after he was filmed shooting cases of beer after Anheuser-Busch partnered with a transgender TikTok influencer. Dolly Partons new album, Rockstar will be released November 17 and features a host of rock stars including Kid Rock, Sting, Miley Cyrus and many others. Catch the song Either Or (feat. Kid Rock) when the album drops. Kid Rock will be joined by Grand Fund Railroad during the July 14 and July 15 performances in Detroit. (Mlive.com). Detroit -- Friday July 14 at 7:30pm Little Caesars Arena Stubhub Vividseats Ticketmaster Detroit -- Saturday July 15 at 7:30pm Little Caesars Arena, MI Stubhub Vividseats Ticketmaster Youngstown -- Saturday July 29 at 7:00pm Wean Park, OH Stubhub Vividseats Ticketmaster The world of music is full of surprises, and every now and then, artists take to social media to connect with their peers and express their desires for exciting collaborations. In a recent turn of events, Ghanaian musician Petrah has taken the Twitterverse by storm with a tweet aimed at none other than the legendary Shatta Wale, expressing her interest in collaborating on a song. This unexpected outreach has ignited a wave of curiosity and anticipation among fans and industry insiders alike. Petrah's tweet is a testament to the power of these social media for communication and collaboration. The tweet, which garnered significant attention within minutes, demonstrates the extent to which social media has leveled the playing field, allowing emerging artists like Petrah to reach out to established artists like Shatta Wale with ease. In her tweet, she respectfully expressed her admiration for his work and proposed a potential collaboration, suggesting that their combined talents could create something extraordinary. Shatta Wale, a name synonymous with the Ghanaian music scene, has made a significant impact with his infectious energy, catchy melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics. Having amassed a massive fan base both locally and internationally, his collaborations have proven to be highly successful and have catapulted several artists to new heights. Shatta Wale's tweet about getting ready to release his new album KonektAlbum will give Petrah the opportunity to showcase her talent once again. For us, the prospect of a collaboration between Petrah and Shatta Wale is brimming with excitement and anticipation. Both artists bring unique styles and artistic prowess to the table, and the fusion of their talents could lead to a musical masterpiece. Petrah's soulful vocals and Shatta Wale's energetic and charismatic presence have the potential to create a song that resonates with fans across different genres, appealing to a wide audience and showcasing the diversity of Ghanaian music. In an era where social media plays a pivotal role in shaping the music landscape, Petrah's bold tweet asking Shatta Wale for a collaboration stands as a testament to the power of ambition, determination, and the willingness to step out of one's comfort zone. The outcome of this unexpected exchange remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Petrah's courage and Shatta Wale's influence have set the stage for a potentially groundbreaking collaboration. Fans and industry insiders eagerly await further developments, hoping for a musical journey that transcends boundaries and leaves an indelible mark on the Ghanaian music scene. Two of Ghanas iconic music brands, Bob Pinodo and the Santrofi Band, will be performing at the International Junkanoo Festival slated for October 24 to 29 in Toronto, Canada. Aimed at bringing together the diversity of cultures and traditions, music, dance, exhibition, and culinary delights from around the world, the festival also features Ras McBean (Guyana), Molina Mohammed (Mexico), and Pierre Noel Steel Band among others. Guest speakers for the event include Dr. Mohammed Awal, Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Ghana, and Prof. Kimani (PhD). The event is organized by the World Junkanoo Festival Foundation and World Carnival Commission. The event is expected to attract travelers from around the world, as revealed by the organizers. The Junkanoo festival originated in Africa, depicting slaves hiding their faces under a flour paste during its celebration. The festival, one of the Caribbeans street parades with music, is often celebrated with colourful costumes to exuberant dance routines, participants spend months preparing for the pageantry of this street parade accompanied by the steady beat of whistles, cowbells, horns, and drums hours after midnight. History has it that, the origin was named after John Canoe, an African trader on the West African Coast during the era of slavery. John was often portrayed as a rebellious slave, while at other times as a successful Black merchant in African countries whose story was carried over to the Bahamas through oral tradition (Sands, 2008). The Festival was originally celebrated in the evenings after the slave owners had gone to bed. Today, Junkanoo is seen as the celebration t of costumes, music, and dance to reunite Africa's lost culture and a step towards conserving our heritage. The maiden edition of the famous Junkanoo Festival notable among the Caribbean was launched in Accra in 2022 to put a spotlight on the countrys culture and heritage. This is to bridge the Caribbean-Africa gap and to draw lovers of Carnival to the country to witness the better heritage that has been established in Ghana. AngloGold Ashanti Ghana has issued a press release to provide an update on the illegal miners still trapped underground in the Obuasi Mine. This follows reports that about 300 illegal miners have been trapped in one of the shafts belonging to AngloGold's Obuasi Mines at Anwiam in the Obuasi East District. In its release, AngloGold Ashanti Ghana said it is working with various security services to ensure that persons underground the mine exit safely. Obuasi Gold Mine's management team has notified the relevant authorities and public security services and is working closely with them. The intrusion of illegal miners into underground areas remains a significantly dangerous activity and AngloGold Ashanti Ghana is working alongside authorities to ensure that only authorized mine personnel and contractors can access underground work areas, parts of the release said. According to the release, unauthorized persons underground are able to exit on foot, via the existing ramp, through the main access of the mining area. AngloGold Ashanti Ghana notes that no person underground has been confined in any way and the main exit ramp from the mine remains open. On Monday, May 29, seven illegal miners exited through the main access point on foot and are in the custody of the Ghana Police Service. Any unauthorized person underground is encouraged to leave the mine at any time by the exit points where public security personnel remain on standby, the release added. Meanwhile, AngloGold Ashanti Ghana has assured the public that the safety and security of its employees and community members remain its top priority. The mining company adds that it stands ready to provide any assistance required by the authorities in ensuring the safe exit of any unauthorized persons underground. Burkina Faso's prime minister on Tuesday ruled out negotiations with jihadist insurgents who control swathes of the country, while suggesting that security risks could delay the country's return to civilian rule. His comments to lawmakers came as officials reported the deaths of around 40 people in weekend attacks attributed to Islamist fighters. "We will never negotiate, either over Burkina Faso's territorial integrity or its sovereignty," Apollinaire Kyelem de Tambela told the Transitional Legislative Assembly. Burkina Faso has been ruled since 2022 by a junta led by Captain Ibrahim Traore, who has promised a return to democracy with presidential elections by July 2024. But de Tambela suggested that attacks could see that timeframe pushed back. "We cannot organise elections without security. If you have a magic wand to ensure we can hold elections as soon as possible, we'd do it," de Tambela told the representatives. "If we organised elections now, while part of our territory is inaccessible, they'll say that whoever is elected has been wrongly elected," he said. He added that the government aimed to double the number of volunteers for the VDP civil defence militia to 100,000 as part of Traore's pledge to recapture the 40 percent of the country's territory seized since 2015 by jihadists affiliated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group. "The only negotiations that matter with these armed bandits are those taking place on the battlefield," de Tambela told the Transitional Legislative Assembly. Also Tuesday, regional officials said an armed convoy was targeted Saturday near Bourasso close to the Malian border, with another local source saying most victims were VDP members. "The attack caused the death of around 20 people, mainly VDP," the source said, requesting anonymity. The regional government did not give a death toll, but claimed that 18 insurgents had been wounded and captured. A security source confirmed the attack on the convoy, adding that air support called in afterwards had "neutralised" around 30 insurgents. The source also said some 20 people were killed in the same region on Sunday, when suspected jihadists attacked Ouakara, a village around 100 kilometres (60 miles) from Bourasso. One resident told AFP that the toll could rise. "Many people have left the village for Nouna or Dedougou, because the terrorists gave them a 72-hour deadline to leave the village," the resident said. 'Whatever the cost' Since taking power, Traore has ousted the French military force deployed to help battle the jihadists in several Sahel nations, and is suspected instead of eyeing Russian military help. Burkina Faso. By (AFP) After a series of bloody attacks since the start of this year, the junta announced in April a general mobilisation for the armed forces. Since 2015, the violence has seen more than 10,000 killed -- both civilians and military -- according to NGOs, and displaced some two million people. De Tambela said Tuesday that "thanks to our efforts" more than 20,000 households, representing more than 125,000 people, "have returned to their regions," without giving further detail. "We will defend our territory and our populations whatever the cost," he declared. The VDP -- Volunteers for the Defence of the Fatherland (VDP) -- comprises civilian volunteers who are given two weeks' military training. They then work alongside the army, typically carrying out surveillance, information-gathering or escort duties. The force is one of the cornerstones of Traore's anti-jihadist strategy. Tens of thousands of people responded to a recruitment drive last year for the VDP volunteer militia. By OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT (AFP) But since its inception in December 2019, the VDP has suffered hundreds of casualties, especially in ambushes or roadside bombings. Despite the high losses, the authorities launched a successful recruitment drive last year for the force. Around 90,000 people signed up in response to a call for patriotism, far exceeding the target of 50,000. Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia has received his nomination forms to contest in the upcoming Presidential Primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The Managing Director of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) Sammi Awuku, Fred Oware former Managing Director of Bui Power Authority and Ayisi Boateng, former Ghana High Commissioner to South Africa, both campaign team members of the Vice president, picked up the nomination forms at the party headquarters and submitted them to Dr. Bawumia at his office at the Jubilee House. The team declined media interview saying that they were carrying errands for their principal, the vice president. Dr. Bawumia's decision to contest the NPP presidential primary is considered a significant move as he is widely seen as one of the frontrunners in the Presidential race. Dr. Bawumia has been busy crisscrossing the country in recent weeks meeting with party executives, engaging grassroots supporters, and opinion leaders. Observers say that Dr. Bawumia's campaign has been focused on his record of delivering on key government programs such as the One-District-One-Factory initiative and the Planting for Food and Jobs program. In the NPP race, former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, through his agents picked his forms yesterday May 29. Dr. Bawumia has been championing the government's digitalization agenda to spur economic growth, and he is widely respected for his economic prowess and ability to articulate government policies. Other candidates are also determined to take the party to the next level with their good policies on energy and the economy, their experience as stalwarts within the party, or their focus on social intervention programs aimed at reducing imports. As curiosity grows on who will earn the party's nomination, the NPP expects a competitive race with qualified individuals who are willing to fulfill the needs of the nation and transform Ghana's economic landscape. The NPP primary is expected to attract significant media attention and public interest as the race heats up. -DGN online Mrs Enyonam Apetorgbor, Chief Executive Officer, Keta Investment Promotion Centre, has appealed to President Akufo-Addo to begin real construction works on the proposed Keta Port as his legacy to the people. She urged the government to expedite work on the Keta Port project due to its geographical location and strategic importance to the country. Currently, only a notice board and a container office building can be found at the site earmarked for the project. There is also no physical development goings-on for what will be Ghana's third commercial port when completed. The plan for a port at Keta, which had been on the drawing board for long and dear to the chiefs and people of the area, received attention from the current government who for the past three years, initiated processes to see it come to fruition. The processes included signing an executive instrument that demarcates the area for the port and advertising tenders for feasibility studies for the project. Mrs Apetorgbor in a release copied to the Ghana News Agency following the President's recent inauguration of a 70-million-euro Elmina Fishing Harbour in the Central Region said the President should make the barely two years remainder of his tenure count for the people in the Keta area. As you reach the dying embers of your second term, I am appealing to you to leave the Keta enclave an important legacy by constructing this Keta Port which strategic importance to Ghana is in no doubt because of its geographical location. This project promises to be a major economic booster for the entire Volta Region and the entire country by creating jobs for the teeming unemployed youths, generating revenue for the state and easing the pressure on the Tema Port. We the people of Keta will forever remember you, at least for starting this important project, the release said. GNA Tema West Member of Parliament, Carlos Ahenkorah, has urged Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to just back off. He is asking the Vice President to withdraw from the flagbearership race of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and allow Alan Kyerematen to lead the party into the 2024 general elections. Hon. Ahenkorah emphasized that it is essential to adhere to the party's tradition of succession and allow Alan Kyerematen to take over from President Nana Akufo-Addo as the NPP's presidential candidate. During an interview on Okay FMs Ade Akye Abia morning show, Mr Ahenkorah said, The advice we gave Nana Addo the time he and Kufuor contested, and the advice we gave Alan Kyerematen when he contested Nana Addo, is the same advice we are giving Bawumia. Mr Ahenkorah acknowledged Bawumia's competency and expressed confidence that he will eventually become the NPP's presidential candidate some day. However, he argued that the current timing is not suitable, considering the party's established tradition. He will definitely become the president but at this stage, Alan Kyerematen has more years ahead of him than Bawuimia. He (Bawumia) should allow Alan Kyerematen to become the flag bearer, and then Bawumia will take over, he said. However, Vice President Bawumia expressed his determination to contest the flagbearership race. Speaking to NPP supporters in Hohoe, he affirmed his commitment to breaking the eight-year cycle of political power. I want you to know that I appreciate your support. We are going to break the 8. First of all, we are going to file for the flagbearership which Im going to do, win the flagbearership, break the 8, and go to Jubilee House. That is what Im going to do, Bawumia said. On May 29, 2023, a group called the 'Bawumia Fan Club' picked the presidential nomination forms on behalf of the Vice President, indicating his active participation in the upcoming primaries. Member of Parliament (MP) for Tema West, Carlos Ahenkorah has called on Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to withdraw from the NPP flagbearer race. According to him, the Veep is a presidential asset but it is the turn of the former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen. Speaking on Accra-based Okay FMs Ade Akye Abia show, he cited how the party told Nana Akufo-Addo to wait till former President John Agyekum Kufuors tenure and how Alan was also told to wait till Akufo-Addo's term ends. The advice we gave Nana Addo the time he and Kuffuor contested, and the advice we gave Alan Kyerematen when he contested Nana Addo, is the same advice we are giving Bawumia. He will definitely become the president but at this stage, Bawuimia has more years ahead of him than Alan Kyeremeten. He (Bawumia) should allow Alan Kyeremeten to become the flagbearer, and then Bawumia will take over, he said. We have a problem in the party, our biggest problem as NPP is the political wildest for 32 years, due to this we accumulated a lot of leaders from JH Mensahs time to Aprakus time among others, he added. Meanwhile, Mr. Fred Oware, a former NPP first National Vice Chairman, on Tuesday, May 30, picked the partys presidential nomination forms and handed it over to Vice President Bawumia in his office. The ruling NPP on May 26, opened nominations for members who wish to contest for the flagbearership position at a filing fee of GHC50,000. The nomination closes on Saturday, June 24, to be followed by a national congress on November 4, where the party will choose who to lead them in the next elections as they aspire to break the 8-year jinx of governance. Top seed Iga Swiatek launched the defence of her French Open crown on Tuesday evening with an inconsistent performance against Cristina Bucsa from Spain. Swiatek, seeking to become only the sixth woman to defend her title in Paris since the French Open allowed professionals to compete in 1968, lost her initial service games. Fortunately for the world number one, Bucsa, ranked 69 places below her, was equally muinificent. The nerves continued for the tournament favourite into the business end of the set. The 21-year-old Pole had to fight off a break point before edging to 5-4. Bucsa faltered again and Swiatek wrapped up the set after 51 minutes when the Spaniard's forehand flew wide. In comparison with the gruel of the opener, Swiatek was a free-flowing force of nature in the second set. She unleashed winners to all angles of the court and swept through it 6-0 in 22 minutes. Change "It's always difficult in the first round," she said after the win. "I needed to adjust to the court and I'm glad I broke through the problems in the second set." Elsewhere in the women's draw, last year's beaten finalist Coco Gauff advanced to the second round. She recovered from the loss of the first set to see off Rebeka Masarova from Spain 3-6, 6-1, 6-2. The 2021 champion Barbora Krejcikova went down in straight sets to Lesia Tsurenko from Ukraine. "I'm very happy with my win," said the 34-year-old after the straight sets defeat over the Czech. "It was a very tough draw for me because she's a great clay court player. So I'm really happy that I was able to play aggressively and to play with character and fight for every point." There was a shock in the men's draw. Second seed Daniil Medvedev lost in five sets to the Brazilian qualifier Thiago Seyboth Wild. The 23-year-old took four hours and 15 minutes to complete the most spectacular victory of his career and advance to the second round at a Grand Slam tournament for the first time. Fourth seed Casper Ruud advanced likewise the sixth seed Holger Rune. President Faustin Archange Touadera of the Central African Republic said Tuesday that he would call a referendum on a new constitution that would allow him to seek a new term. Touadera's opponents have already accused him of seeking to extend his rule despite constitutional limits in one of the world's poorest and most unstable countries. "I have decided... to submit this project for a new constitution to a referendum," the president said in an address to the nation posted on Facebook, with the date set for July 30. Touadera was elected in 2016 and was returned for a second term in 2020, despite widespread accusations of electoral flaws and an ongoing rebellion against his rule after years of civil war. In January, he removed the country's top judge, Daniele Darlan, in what critics denounced as a "constitutional coup d'etat" after she opposed presidential decrees aimed at revising the constitution. Currently a president can serve only two terms. "There won't be a third term, but the count will be set back to zero, so anyone can seek a new term, including Touadera if he wants," the president's main advisor, Fidele Gouandjika, told AFP after the announcement. Critics said the president was making a blatant power play. "This new constitution will be written so that Touadera remains president for life," said Nicolas Tiangaye, a former prime minister and opposition leader. "What's more, the Constitutional Court is illegitimate since the ouster of Darlan," he said. Touadera has also drawn fire from critics over the hiring of paramilitaries from the Russian group Wagner in the conflicts between militias that hold sway over large tracts of territory and often clash over access to minerals and other resources. The last remaining French troops were also forced to leave in December in the face of an increasingly assertive Russian presence, with Paris accusing CAR authorities of being complicit in an anti-French disinformation campaign allegedly fomented by Russia. France, the former colonial power, had dispatched up to 1,600 troops to help stabilise the country after a coup in 2013 unleashed a civil war along sectarian lines. Landlocked and mineral-rich but dirt-poor, the CAR has experienced few periods of stability since gaining independence from France in 1960. The Sudanese army suspended its participation in US- and Saudi-brokered ceasefire talks Wednesday accusing its paramilitary foes of failing to honour their commitments. The mediators of the talks in the Saudi Red Sea city of Jeddah have acknowledged repeated violations of the truce by both sides but have so far held off imposing any sanctions in the hope of keeping the warring parties at the negotiating table. The army walked out "because the rebels have never implemented a single one of the provisions of a short-term ceasefire which required their withdrawal from hospitals and residential buildings," a Sudanese government official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The army said the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had also "repeatedly violated the truce", the official added. US and Saudi mediators said late Monday that the warring parties had agreed to extend by five days a humanitarian truce they had frequently violated over the previous week. The mediators admitted the truce had been "imperfectly observed" but said the extension "will permit further humanitarian efforts". Map showing number of people killed in fighting and strikes in Sudan between April 15 and May 19, according to data from NGO Acled. By Sophie RAMIS, Nalini LEPETIT-CHELLA, Laurence SAUBADU (AFP) But despite the pledges of both sides, fighting flared again on Tuesday both in greater Khartoum and in the flashpoint western region of Darfur. "The army is ready to fight until victory," army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan declared during a visit to troops in the capital. The RSF, led by Burhan's deputy-turned-foe Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, said they will "exercise their right to defend themselves" and accused the army of violating the truce. Fears of breakdown Sudan specialist Aly Verjee said the mediators were eager to avoid a complete breakdown of the talks, for fear of a major escalation on the ground. "The mediators know that the situation is bad but they do not want to state that a ceasefire is gone for fear that the situation would then become even worse," said Verjee, a researcher at Sweden's University of Gothenburg. "The hope is that by keeping the parties talking, the prospects of arrangements that are better respected will eventually improve." Since fighting erupted between the rival security forces on April 15, more than 1,800 people have been killed, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. There has been widespread looting and arson of government offices and abandoned diplomatic missions in the Sudanese capital Khartoum. By - (AFP) The United Nations says more than a million people have been internally displaced and nearly 350,000 have fled abroad, including over 170,000 to Egypt. More than half the population -- 25 million people -- are now in need of aid and protection, the UN says. Entire districts of Khartoum no longer have running water, electricity is only available for a few hours a week, and three quarters of hospitals in combat zones are out of service. Many families have continued to hide out in their homes, rationing water and electricity while trying desperately to avoid stray gunfire in the city of more than five million people -- nearly 700,000 of whom have fled, according to the United Nations. In Darfur, on Sudan's western border with Chad, continued fighting "blatantly disregards ceasefire commitments", said Toby Harward, of the UN refugee agency. The persistent fighting has impeded delivery of the aid and protection needed by a record 25 million people, more than half the population, according to the UN. Despite the increasing needs, it says it has only received 13 percent of the $2.6 billion it requires. Smoke billowing over the Sudanese capital has been a daily sight for residents, nearly 700.000 of whom have fled their homes, according to UN figures. By - (AFP) The UN has warned for weeks that fighting in Darfur's major cities has also drawn in former rebel and militia fighters recruited along ethnic lines during the region's devastating conflict in the mid-2000s. Darfur's pro-army governor Mini Minawi, a former rebel leader, has urged citizens to "take up arms" to defend their property. Sudan could descend into "total civil war", warned the Forces for Freedom and Change, the main civilian bloc ousted from power by Burhan and Daglo in a 2021 coup before the two men fell out. Pressure group OccupyGhana has expressed disappointment over governments acceptance to enact the Conduct of Public Officers Act as part of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) conditionalities. According to the group, they repeatedly called on the government to pass the Bill into law, but their calls were blatantly ignored. In a letter to the presidency on May 30, OccupyGhana said: OccupyGhana is pleasantly amazed and amused to read that the government has finally agreed to enact the Conduct of Public Officers Act, because it is now being compelled to do so by the International Monetary Fund, as part of the conditionalities for the US$3 billion Extended Credit Facility Arrangement for Ghana. We have written to your office several times to demand that Cabinet approves the draft Conduct of Public Officers Bill, 2022 that was submitted to Cabinet by the Attorney-General, and then send it to Parliament for debate and enactment. We kept the pressure on until the government slammed the door in our faces. The group complained that the government refused to listen to suggestions made by activists but is now being compelled by the IMF to do so. We are glad and saddened at the same time that the government that thumbed its nose at us on this issue, has now found its way back to the table, compelled, not because of the activism of well-meaning citizens, but because of Ghanas current economic dire straits and the dictates of the IMF. We however wish to assure the government that we remain ready and willing to assist Cabinet in reconsidering the draft Bill, approving it and sending it to Parliament for debate and enactment, OccupyGhana said in its statement. The group believes that passing the Bill into law will go a long way to properly regulate the conduct of public officers. OccupyGhana noted: It is still our conviction that passing the Bill into law will go a long way to properly regulate the conduct of public officers, and bring to pass the governments new promise to the IMF that the new Act will address current weaknesses of [the assets declaration] system and strengthen organizational and legal arrangements for addressing corruption and enhancing accountability and integrity. Read below Occupy Ghanas letter to the presidency 30 May 2023 Secretary to the Cabinet Office of the President Jubilee House Accra Dear Madam: RE: RIGHT TO INFORMATION REQUEST ON THE STATUS OF THE DRAFT CONDUCT OF PUBLIC OFFICERS BILL, 2022 The above-entitled matter refers. OccupyGhana is pleasantly amazed and amused to read that the Government has finally agreed to enact the Conduct of Public Officers Act, because it is now being compelled by the International Monetary Fund to do so, as part of the conditionalities for the US$3Billion Extended Credit Facility Arrangement for Ghana. We have written to your office several times to demand that Cabinet approves the draft Conduct of Public Officers Bill, 2022 that was submitted to Cabinet by the Attorney-General, and then send it to Parliament for debate and enactment. We kept the pressure on until the Government slammed the door in our faces. In your letter to us dated 14 February 2023, ref OPCA.3/3/140223, you stated emphatically that Cabinet has taken the view that there are adequate provisions that deal with the conduct of public officers in the existing law, and therefore Cabinet has declined approval for the Memorandum. What was even more shocking was that the Office of the President chose to wrongfully stamp this letter as CONFIDENTIAL and then mark each page as SECRET. You have neither acknowledged nor responded to our letters to you dated 20 and 27 February 2023, challenging this illegal branding of the letters and demanding their withdrawal. Overall, Cabinet's refusal to approve the draft Bill flew in the face of all the promises that this Government had made to Ghanaians on this matter, including, particularly the following statement at page 105 of the New Patriotic Party's 2020 Manifesto: [Attached] Disappointed at this volte-face, we considered several options including petitioning the Right to Information Commission for a determination of the absurd claim of confidentiality and secrecy. We also considered suing the Government or presenting a bill to Parliament to amend the specifically offending portion of section 1 of the Public Office Holders (Declaration of Assets and Disqualification) Act 1998 (Act 550), which unconstitutionally extends by six months, the fixed times that the Constitution provides for assets declaration by public officers. That is why we are amazed and amused that the Government, now under pressure from the IMF, is promising to pass into law, the Bill that you told us, as recently as February of this year, would not be approved. We note that the IMF COUNTRY REPORT No 23/169, page 22, paragraph 44, says The authorities are also committed to addressing weaknesses in the existing asset declaration system for public officialswhich currently lacks an effective verification processby enacting a new Conduct of Public Officers Act. We are tickled that in the attachment titled MEMORANDUM OF ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL POLICIES, at page 69, paragraph 52, the Government itself says We will continue to strengthen organizational and legal arrangements for addressing corruption and enhancing accountability and integrity: This will include improvements in the existing asset declaration system. The enactment of Conduct of Public Officers Act will notably seek to address current weaknesses of this system. Then there is the Statement by Messrs Bijani, Sassanpour and Akosah dated 17 May 2023, which says at page 6: The authorities are committed to address macro-critical gaps in Ghana's governance framework, enhance accountability and fight corruption forcefully. They will enact the Conduct of Public Officers Act to address identified weaknesses in the existing asset declaration system. We are glad and saddened at the same time that the Government that thumbed its nose at us on this issue, has now found its way back to the table, compelled, not because the activism of well-meaning citizens, but because Ghana's current economic dire straits and the dictates of the IMF. We however wish to assure the Government that we remain ready and willing to assist Cabinet in reconsidering the draft Bill, approving it and sending it to Parliament for debate and enactment. We have therefore taken steps to address the previous, false claim by Cabinet that everything that the draft Bill seeks to do is already covered by existing law. We are attaching to this letter, a 20-page table containing our comparative analyses of the Bill and existing law, to show that contrary to what Cabinet claimed and which was communicated to us in your 14 February 2023 letter, the vast majority of the Bill's clauses do not exist already in Ghana law. It is still our conviction that passing the Bill into law will go a long way to properly regulate the conduct of public officers, and bring to pass the Government's new promise to the IMF that the new Act will address current weaknesses of [the assets declaration] system and strengthen organizational and legal arrangements for addressing corruption and enhancing accountability and integrity. Yours in the service of God and Country, OccupyGhana cc. Chief of Staff Office of the President Jubilee House Accra Attorney-General & Minister for Justice Office of the Attorney-General & Minister for Justice Accra Minister for Information Ministry of Information Accra Executive Secretary Right to Information Commission Accra citinewsroom Firefighters from the Sekondi Metro Fire Station on Tuesday morning, May 30 arrived in good time to rescue alive, a one-and-half-year-old baby girl from a rampaging fire on the 4th floor of an affected three storey Naval Base Officers Flat near the Hosanna Methodist Church at Kweikuma Caprice in Sekondi in the Western Region. The firefighters also saved 23 rooms and their contents (on the 3rd, 2nd, 1st and ground floors), an adjoining one storey self-contained apartment with seven rooms and three saloon cars from total fire ruins. However, seven rooms on the 4th floor and their contents including home appliances, furniture, personal effects, among others got severely burnt by the fire. Officers of the GNFS said they were informed about the fire incident via a running call at 09:50 Tuesday morning. The first crew met the fast spreading blaze at an advanced stage amidst thick smoke emanating from the roofs on the 4th floor of the affected three storey Naval Base Officers Flat. Three additional Pumps including (Apremdo, Ghana Navy, and GHAPOHA Fire Engines), two water tankers made up of Ghana Navy Water Tanker and a Private Water Tanker and a Turn Table Ladder were marshaled to the fire scene to bring the fierce blaze under control. The cause of the fierce fire remains under investigation, the firefighters said. Classfmonline Morombe, Madagascar 31st May 2023 - Envirium Life Sciences is pleased to announce its cooperation agreement with ASITY Madagascar (BirdLife partner) for the preservation of the biodiversity, the mangrove restoration in the Mangoky Ihotry, a wetland complex protected area, on the Southwest Coast of Madagascar. This project reinforces Enviriums and Asity Madagascars mission to preserve biodiversity while creating value for the local population. For the first time, Malagasy nature conservation associations and the private sector will partner to enhance the preservation of a protected area in Madagascar. The agreement with ASITY Madagascar is an application of Envirium Life Sciences business model: improving livelihoods by creating a fair value chain for all partners, while protecting the environment and its biodiversity. We are pleased to sign this partnership with ASITY Madagascar. It is the first of its kind in Madagascar. This private-public partnership will reinforce the actions we can undertake in the region. It should enable us to restore the natural resources of these marshy areas, which are home to rare and endemic Malagasy species, explains Christian Van Osselaer, CEO of Envirium Life Sciences. Located in the Province of Toliara, the Mangoky Ihotry area covers more than 400, 000 ha. Up until now, protected areas have always been financially supported by NGOs and public institutions. Farmers from the Mangoky Ihotry region will be offered to develop pollen crops, providing them with a decent and sustainable income. After being trained by our teams, the local farmers will be able to produce the best quality of pollen. Additionally, Envirium Life Sciences will grant an extra environmental bonus for each kilo of pollen exported for the biological control market. This sum will be fully allocated to the protection of the area. This contribution will go directly to ASITY Madagascar, manager of the protected area. This is part of Enviriums mission. Our business model is simple: If you want people to preserve their own environment, you have to help them improve their income, elaborates Van Osselaer. Exceptional environment made of dry semideciduous forests, Ihotry lake (second largest in Madagascar), mangroves and marine park, this shelter welcomes hundreds of animals and birds species. Vony Raminoarisoa, Executive Director of ASITY Madagascar already anticipates the positive impact of this partnership: The environmental bonus will enable us to replant reeds and restore the mangrove. Today, five endemic birds species are classified as endangered, including Madagascar marsh-harrier and Madagascar grebe. In this case, planting reeds will enable to grow the presence of two species: a bird, the Madagascar grebe, and a fish, the Mozambique Tilapia. Implementing an inclusive management plan will be beneficial for all the stakeholders in our intervention area. As the first to suffer from climate change, the local communities embraced the idea favorably. Gaetan Etancelin, Global Group Sustainability Coordinator of Envirium Life Sciences, collects positive feedback: "During our on-site visits, the community associations (VOI), which collect pollen, have committed themselves to the conservation of several areas. They know that there is one key condition for Envirium to buy their pollen: the replanted mangroves and reeds cannot be cut. Thanks to the additional income, for the first time, people perceive conservation as an opportunity for their development rather than a burden. With this new partnership in Madagascar, Envirium Life Sciences extends his cooperation with nature reserves and national parks in Africa. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, COPAK Sarl, Enviriums local subsidiary, partners with 15 0000 families in North Kivu and around the Garamba National Park in order to help them preserve biodiversity while creating a fair value in the supply chain of enzymes, vanilla, cocoa, chia seeds and coffee. Envirium is also part of Virunga Origins and Virunga Chocolate. These social companies produce a unique Bean-to-Bar Chocolate, chia seeds and coffee whose profits are entirely allocated to the Virunga National Park and the surrounding communities. All profits are reinvested into the conservation of the Park and the communities. ENVIRIUM Life Sciences Envirium Life Sciences is an international group based in Belgium and established on 3 continents through 7 subsidiaries. Inspired by nature, empowered by people, ELS aims at helping small farmers to create value from their land. Based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, ELSs business model provides a sustainable, traceable and reliable sourcing as well as high-quality standards in the production of cocoa, chia, coffee beans, enzymes (Democratic Republic of Congo), vanilla (Madagascar and Papua New Guinea), spices and fruits (Madagascar). Almost 30 000 small farmers and their families have already chosen to embrace this sustainable change. See more on www.envirium.be ASITY Madagascar ASITY Madagascar is the premier NGO dedicated to nature conservation and sustainable development in Madagascar. ASITY Madagascar focusses on conservation of biodiversity while ensuring sustainable development, environmental education, and research. ASITY is the BirdLife Partner in Madagascar. See more on https://asity-madagascar.org/ Credit: ASITY Madagascar Afienya District of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has issued a summons letter to a client at Gbetsile in Accra for illegally connecting power to 33 structures in the area. The discovery was made as part of ECGs recent national revenue mobilization exercise, which started on Monday, May 29, 2023, and is expected to end on Friday, June 2, 2023. The customer fled upon seeing the ECG personnel. However, the meter was located outside his premise and was therefore accessible to the team. In an interaction with residents by the ECG officials, some claimed to have been paying for the power they were using to the owner of the meter on a monthly basis. The public relations officer for the ECG in the Tema Region urged the offender to report to the Tema Regional Office of ECG for further action. This customer has decided to distribute power to the other 33 structures. Further checks also revealed that the owner of the meter had done an illegal connection in the form of a meter bypass, which means that all the power they are using does not pass through the meter, so they are not paying for using the power. The culprit fled upon seeing the ECG personnel, so we could not get him. We have served a summons letter and asked that he reports to the Tema ECG office, and if it gets to prosecution, we will do that. citinewsroom Author: Erina Haque 31.05.2023 LISTEN Gun violence has once again afflicted the USA in several states. More than 17 people were gunned down and dozens injured in a spate of during Memorial Day weekend. Chicago, Atlanta, Washington, and New Mexico were among the eight cities where gun violence and other incidents were reported. Beaches, high schools, and motorcycle rallies were the place specifically targeted by the gunmen. More than 200 mass shootings were recorded across the US so far this year, including the attack at a school in Nashville, where three children and three adults were killed, and the mass shooting in Kentucky, where five people were killed. Gun Violence and Mass Shooting Gun violence is a contemporary global human rights issue. Anyone can be affected by firearm violence worldwide, but the rising trend of gun-related injuries in several states is alarming in the USA. The country is witnessing a surge in gun violence as the gun purchase rate has reached its highest level in 2020 and 2021. Last year, the mass shootings decreased compared to previous years, but it is rising horribly in 2023. Even the number of U.S. kids dying by gunfire keeps rising. In the last three years, there have been more than 600 mass shootings, almost two a day on average. While the US does not have a single definition for mass shootings, the Gun Violence Archive defines a mass shooting as an incident in which four or more people are injured or killed. More than 100 people die every day because of violence committed with firearms. It is not only having lasting impacts on victims and their families but also deteriorating the overall human rights situation in the country. Gun violence is not stopping just by killing a person or mass shooting; instead, it is becoming a vicious cycle where the growing number of gun violence creates insecurity in peoples minds, which result in buying new guns to ensure their safety. The increasing gun suicide rate also reveals the vulnerability inside the country. The availability of guns and other factors contribute to the increasing rate of gun violence. Why does gun violence in the US need to be stopped? Among wealthier and developed countries, the USA is an outlier regarding firearm violence. The US government seems to have allowed gun violence to become a human rights crisis. Comprehensive access to firearms and loose regulations lead to more than 40,000 men, women, and children being killed with guns each year in the USA. Due to the gun culture, the USA has top civilian firearms. It now has 120 guns per 100 population, even higher than Yemen, a country currently in one of the worst civil wars of recent times. Numerous observers claim that the US governments unilateral activities have brought up new humanitarian problems worldwide. The US government is prioritizing gun ownership over fundamental human rights. This issue is a highly political one, pitting gun control advocates against people who are fiercely protective of their right to bear arms. Despite the vast number of guns in circulation and the sheer number of people killed by guns each year, there is a shocking lack of federal regulations that could save thousands. The governmental bodies in the United States are ignoring the connection between gun violence and the violation of human rights, resulting in more casualties every year. An estimated 2,000 people are injured by gunshots daily, and at least 2 million people live with firearm injuries around the globe. Among them, the United States has a far greater rate of gun violence than other nations, mainly developed nations. Millions of people suffer the severe and long-term psychological effects of gun violence on individuals, families, and their wider community. While focusing a lot on data, statistics, and ranking, we often forget the tragic stories behind each number. Each life matters, and everyone has a different story. Given that the right to life is an essential human right, whether the US can effectively curb gun violence should be an important yardstick for the international community to measure its human rights. The US authorities should work more on improving the security situation by taking effective gun control measures before the situation gets out of hand. Besides, they should also establish a victim support mechanism to help the survivors and victims families to overcome the grief of losing their loved ones. Way forward: US President Joe Biden said that gun violence must be tackled, but repeated shootings indicate that the problem is only worsening. Effectively implemented gun regulation and violence prevention projects can stop the carnage. As a first step, states should recognize firearm violence as a threat to peoples human rights, particularly their rights to life, physical integrity and security of person, and health. For this, strict legislation and enforcement are required. The US administration should concentrate on fixing the situation in its own country first rather than offering counsel or advice to others. Each year, approximately 40,000 Americans are killed by gunshot wounds, which is roughly equivalent to the annual rate of traffic deaths on American roads and highways. With the murders caused by guns, the accidental deaths caused by guns, and the law-enforcement killings caused by guns, the average comes out to more than 100 Americans killed by bullets every day. The same number of deaths will happen tomorrow, and the day after that, and the day after that, and every day until lawmakers come to their senses and do something about it. Following this, the USA must maximize the protection of human rights, creating the safest possible environment for most people, especially those at the most significant risk. If a state does not exercise adequate control over the possession and use of firearms in the face of persistent gun violence, it could breach its obligations under international human rights law. It is yet to make a very progressive decision regarding stricter laws. So, the US should focus on its domestic condition while promoting the same policy in its human rights and foreign policy. Erina Haque is a researcher, journalist, columnist, and author. Two different political options for crisis periods The Turkish people voted and reconfirmed their trust in Recep Tayyip Erdogans imperial vision. Contrary to what so many Western media described, the clash between the two candidates was not between Right and Left, between conservation and progress, or between Islam and Kemalism. This interpretative apparatus does not capture the Turkish prism in all its complexity and gradients; on the contrary, it offers a distorted and banal image. The Anatolian peasant, stocky and tough as represented by The Man of the Earth by Neset Gunal (Toprak Adam, 1974), visible in the Istanbul Modern Museum, has the same dignity as the more westernized urban elites of Istanbul. And given that Turkey's strength is the "strength in numbers", the Anatolians shift the balance. In truth, the duel embodied by the two challengers was between two visions for the The Century of Turkiye: the continuation of Erdogans imperial mandate, with its various declinations (foreign policy, energy policy) or a more protective and attentive to the social needs approach expressed by Klcdaroglu, in anticipation of times that will be complex for the entire global economy. In short, these are two different and fiercely opposing visions, but they start from a shared value: Turkiye must have role, status, and dignity as the ICYF President Taha Ayhan encapsulated it recently during his FLEP program. It is the countrys historical vertical along with its geographic centrality that offers Turkiye a power projection in both Heartland and the Rimland. Moreover, the country is a fundamental partner of NATO with an increasing strategic autonomy. The global upheavals certainly influenced the outcome of the vote: faced with so much uncertainty, Turkish people preferred the reliability of the current President. Likewise, the two candidates gave voice to two social bodies with real aspirations and needs. The outcome has rewarded the outgoing President, but the opposition has weight and represents a social body, even not homogeneous, that can have an impact. The analysis of the vote: communication, opposing territories, earthquake They were the most critical elections for 100 years, as demonstrated by the high participation (88% and 85%) and the need for a further step, the runoff. The two candidates set up two very different electoral campaigns: Erdogan impersonated an imperial Turkiye with inaugurations and huge crowds (and a top gun-style photo) while Klcdaroglu spoke to the gut of the country by publishing many videos deliberately of low quality from his home in which he denounced the economic crisis facing the country. Erdogan kept the Anatolian strongholds and held on to some earthquake-hit provinces, such as Gaziantep (nearly 60% in the first round), not Adana. The vote of the coasts is also interesting given that Turkey overlooks two seas, Akdeniz (White Sea) and Karadeniz (Black Sea): Klcdaroglu scored higher percentage in the Mediterranean coast (over 50% in Antalya) while the Black Sea voted for the President, as in the Trabzon case (65%). Istanbul rewarded the opposition, but Erdogan did not collapse: 48.56% (4.928.772) against 46.68% (4.738.680); the same dynamic for Ankara, where Klcdaroglu won with 47%. The provinces where the Kurdish people are present Mardin, Batman, Van and Diyarbakr (Klcdaroglu over 70%) above all located on the border, the water crossing between the Tigris and Euphrates, vote convincingly for the opposition. Regarding the vote for the assembly, it should be noted that: the Cumhur coalition lead by the current president remains first and the AKP leads it with more than 30% and should go from the current 288 seats to 266, while the MHP (10 %) from the current 48 to 50; the Kemalist party CHP of the opposition candidate (25%) is growing significantly, which should go from 134 to 169 elected, and so also the IYI Parti (9%) which should increase its seats from 36 to 44; the Yesil Sol Parti (green and progressive party) obtained about 10% and won the seats (62), in the Kurdish areas, overtaking the CHP itself and the coalition of Klcdaroglu. Certainly, having obtained the majority in parliament provided extra assist to Erdogan. Erdogans project: energy and food autonomy, infrastructure, Islam The confirmed president, the former mayor of the megalopolis on the Bosphorus, has spearheaded a twenty-years period of change for Turkiye. Turkiye has developed a world-class industrial and manufacturing system and has enhanced the extraction capacities of minerals and natural resources. Turkiye has become a checkpoint for hydrocarbons flows which reach the Old Continent from the heart of Asia; in the meantime, it has increased the share of energy produced from renewable sources. In addition, the new Akkuyu nuclear power plant, which received its first shipment of nuclear fuel in May, could produce up to 10% of the electricity Turkiye needs. Furthermore, Turkiye is one of the leading global grain producers. Cereal production occupies about 75% of cultivated land in Turkiye. With a production of wheat (about 21 million tons) and barley (about 9 million tons), Turkiye is one of the worlds largest producers. Besides cotton and tobacco, sugar beet is another important industrial crop (about 22 million tons). In 2020, Turkiye exported nearly 1780 different types of agricultural products to 240 countries for a total of $21 billion. So, the basis of Turkish development is progressive energy and food autonomy - a strategy to respond to global resource shortages accelerated after the Russian invasion. In the face of industrial development, which has been rapid, Islam remains an indispensable social glue: it guarantees continuity in discontinuity. Sources Anadolu Ajans, Secim 2023: https://secim.aa.com.tr/ Iea.com, https://www.iea.org/countries/turkiye Akkuyu.com, http://www.akkunpp.com/ Tarmsal Arastrmalar ve Politikalar Genel Mudurlugu, https://www.tarimorman.gov.tr/TAGEM Lorenzo Somigli Born in Florence (IT) in 1996, he is a journalist and press officer; assistant to the Chamber of Deputies he follows the Environment Commission. He has reported in Lebanon and Turkiye; writes on energy and geopolitics for Transatlantic Policy Quarterly magazine. 31.05.2023 LISTEN The Member of Parliament (MP) for Effutu Constituency, Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin has expressed worry over recent accidents in the country. In a statement released after the tragic accident at Gomoa Okyereko on the Accra - Cape Coast road on Tuesday, May 30, the Deputy Majority Leader stressed that it is important for the country to unite and prioritise the safety on roads in the country. "In light of this tragic event, it is imperative that we come together as a nation and prioritize the safety of our roads, Alexander Afenyo-Markin said. The Effutu Member of Parliament continued, I implore the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, allowing us to identify and enforce measures that will prevent similar incidents in the future. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding road safety, implementing necessary precautions, and fostering a culture of responsible driving. The tragic accident on Tuesday claimed the lives of 16 people, leaving over 20 people hospitalised with various degree of injuries. Hon. Afenyo-Markin is urging all motorists and road users to exercise utmost caution, abide by traffic regulations and take responsibility to protect their lives and the lives of others. 31.05.2023 LISTEN Malik Basintale, Deputy National Communications Officer for the opposition party National Democratic Congress (NDC) has accused President Akufo-Addo of targeting four individuals at the Electoral Commission (EC) who have been working tirelessly to build the credibility of the organisation. He said this during an interview on TV3s New Day morning show, where he claimed to have some documents to back his claim. Therell be breaking news on your platforms. There are four people President Akufo-Addo has targeted at the Electoral Commission. Four people, I am stating it. My name is Malik Basintale, Deputy National Communications Officer for the NDC, he stated. Basintale who declined to disclose the identities of the individuals, emphasised that information available to him suggests that President Akufo-Addo has identified certain individuals within the EC who have been striving hard to uphold the integrity of the EC. He said, Yesterday, we had documents for that. I may decide to reserve their names - four people! And all details we have here indicate that the President has realised that he has persons within the ECs jurisdiction that have been fighting for credibility at the Electoral Commission. Four people! According to the NDCs Deputy Communications Officer, the President has used various means to dismiss them but has been unsuccessful. And they have queried them, they have gone through different procedures of sacking them but all attempts to get these people out so that they can continue in their rigging spear have proven futile, he said. Basintale further alleged that President Akufo-Addo's latest move is clearly aimed at finding any potential grounds to remove them from their positions. ...and so the last step is to request that they provide their CVs so he goes through and theyll definitely find one or two things. He continued,"I am stating it and I've done my checks and balances. I have documents here to prove that, and in the coming days, the NDC will address this particular matter as a whole." He also expressed concerns over what he perceived as a witch-hunt by President Akufo-Addo, accusing him of attempting to undermine the EC's credibility and independence before exiting office in 2024. Mr Basintale vowed that the NDC would not allow such actions to hinder the wor of the electoral body in the country. Well not allow president Akufo-Addo as a result of his witch hunting at the doors of the Electoral Commission as a result of his zeal to ensure that we have a discreditable, reckless, an impure and an independent body to materialise in this country, he said. 31.05.2023 LISTEN TV3s broadcast journalist, Johnnie Hughes has expressed concern over the potential implications of questioning the integrity and independence of the Electoral Commission (EC). Mr Hughes emphasized the need for the government to focus on addressing social issues and stop undermining the work of the EC. We have not moved to solve those social issues. We are rather interested in the Electoral Commission because we want to break the eight. People are beginning to ask questions and once people start fingering the integrity and the sanctity and the independence of the Electoral Commission, it is not good, he stated. During TV3s JohnniesBite session on the New Day morning show, Mr Hughes stressed that it is essential to safeguard the integrity and sanctity of the EC to maintain the countrys image as the beacon of hope on the African continent. Mr Hughes noted that the inability to ensure the independence of the EC could have serious consequences for Ghana. Ghana is a beacon of hope; on the African continent, we are seen as light that shines and others follow. If we fail at this attempt to entrench the independence of the electoral commissionwere in trouble, Hughes remarked. He continued, And may it not be said that people have been put at the electoral commission to do the bidding of a political party, because from the past few years, right from when the venerable Dr Afari-Gyan left, we have been toying with the electoral commission. Top Electoral Commission (EC) officers have been told to submit their Curriculum Vitae (CVS) for "review" by President Nana Akufo-Addo's Office, raising concerns about the reasons for the request. Samuel D. Buadu, the EC's Director of Human Resources urged Directors and regional leaders to submit CVs by noon on May 29 in a memo. According to part of the memo, "The Office of the President His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has requested the Curricula Vitae of Senior Management of State Agencies from the Director and above." Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Legon, Prof. Ransford Gyampo has hit out at President Akufo-Addo for demanding the CVs of all top officials of the Electoral Commission (EC). In a statement reacting to the matter, the Political Science lecturer argued that it appears the President is bent on doing everything in his power to decimate the independence of all independent institutions during his tenure. Why do you want to do this to an Independent Commission? It appears under your tenure, you are doing everything you can to decimate the independence of all independent institutions, but to what end? The history of Ghanas Fourth Republic shows that you are currently the worse President in promoting the sanctity of the independence of the Electoral Commission, Prof. Ransford Gyampo shared in his statement. According to Prof. Ransford Gyampo, President Akufo-Addos demand is unnecessary and its optics for the quest to deal with the independence deficit of the Electoral Commission are bad. Prof. Gyampo insists that the EC must also stand up and insist on the independence granted to the Commission under the law. Read Prof. Ransford Gyampos post on Facebook below: Dear President Akufo Addo, Why do you want to do this to an Independent Commission? It appears under your tenure, you are doing everything you can to decimate the independence of all independent institutions, but to what end? The history of Ghanas Fourth Republic show that you are currently the worse President in promoting the sanctity of the independence of the Electoral Commission. Unfortunately there arent courageous people around you to tell you to back off your attempts at annexing the Electoral Commission. Back in the days, Dan Botwe as General Secretary of the NPP could boldly tell President Kufuor in the face to back off his attempt to usurp the procurement powers of the Electoral Commission and the President had no choice than to listen. Please leave office and leave the sanctity of our independent institutions intact. This is not a practice worth emulating or repeating, Sir. This demand is unnecessary and its optics for the quest to deal with the independence deficit of the Electoral Commission are bad. But the Electoral Commission too must not be seen to be swallowing everything thrown to them by the President hook, line and sinker. As an independent Commission, it is backed by law to resist every attempt at subjugating the Commission under the Executive President. Opposition leader Ousmane Sonko has alleged that he was being "illegally held" in his home in Dakar by security forces and urged the public to protest. Meanwhile, a national dialogue between the government and various political actors has begun in the Senegalese capital. Senegal opposition leader Ousmane Sonko broke his silence after his recent arrest, and said on Tuesday morning that he felt he had been "kidnapped" by the security forces. He also called on his compatriots to protest against the current regime using social media. Sonko was arrested on Sunday while leading supporters from his native Zighinchor, in Casamance, towards the Senegalese capital, Dakar. On Monday, protesters clashed with security forces in Dakar, burning cars and building barricades to protest the treatment of the opposition leader, according to RFI's correspondent Charlotte Idrac. The Senegalese branch of the human rights group Amnesty International posted on Twitter on Sunday that the restrictions imposed on Ousmane Sonko's freedom to come and go, without notification, are illegal and must end, calling on authorities to follow the rule of law. Political tension is still high as Sonko's supporters are ready to protest, and a national dialogue between the government and the various political / civil society actors is to begin later today [ 31 May] Wednesday, in Dakar. Unauthorised march? His arrest abruptly ended Sonko's cross-country march. Interior Minister Antoine Diome, speaking on Senegalese Radio and Television (RTS) said that Sonko should have requested authorisation before organising his "freedom caravan". He added that Sonko had not been arrested, but rather "dropped off" at his Dakar home. For Sonko and his opposition party, the arrest underlines President Macky Sall's intentions to run for a third mandate, which Sonko has denounced. He's been calling his supporters to protests against the current government. Rape charges and risk of ineligibility Sonko, however, is facing a rape trial, which could result in him being ineligible to run in next year's presidential election. Last Wednesday, a prosecutor called for a 10-year prison sentence. Sonko, 48, has been charged with rape and making death threats against an employee of a beauty salon in Dakar. Adji Sarr, 20, said she had been abused five times by Sonko. Sonko described Saar as a "young girl who has been manipulated, promised a diplomatic passport and exile abroad, as well as large sums of money," a "poor young lady who is not so innocent, as she could have retracted her statement a long time ago." The decision on Sonko's sentence is expected tomorrow, 1 June, triggering more fears of violence. Controversial new mandate The president of Senegal, Macky Sall, is believed to be considering a run for a third presidential term, in the next election scheduled for February 2024. The Senegalese Constitution, changed in 2016, states that no one may serve more than two consecutive terms. But the Minister of Justice has decided that his "first term is that from 2019 to 2024". He argues that the 2016 constitutional revision reset the counters and therefore "erased" Macky Sall's first term starting in 2012. YAW, the opposition coalition, which includes the left-leaning Pastef party founded by Sonko in 2014, believes that a third term would be unconstitutional. Commodore Kakra Addison (Rtd), a Maritime Safety and Security Expert, has advocated for effective cooperation among Gulf of Guinea countries to pool resources and experience in the battle against piracy, which has plagued the region. Commodore Addison (Rtd), a former Deputy Commandant of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), stated that the region needed to be protected from such maritime attacks in order to protect the resources and benefits that citizens and countries derive from the Gulf of Guinea. He claimed that only by tackling the issue of generalized maritime disorder could piracy and maritime terrorism be managed in the long run. He said this while presenting a paper on "Maritime Terrorism, Piracy, and Armed Robbery at Sea" at the 15th Maritime Security and Transnational Organized Crime (MSTOC) course organized by the KAIPTC with support from the German Government for 34 professionals from 13 Gulf of Guinea countries. He stated that the region has 5,000 nautical miles (nm), which offer seemingly ideal shipping conditions and host numerous natural harbours, and that it is also rich in hydrocarbons, fish, gas, cocoa, gold, timber, and other resources, with a market size of over 300 million consumers. "These characteristics hold enormous promise for maritime commerce, resource extraction, shipping, and development." Indeed, container traffic in West African ports has expanded at the quickest rate in Sub-Saharan Africa since 1995," he remarked. According to Commodore Addison (Rtd), a former Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Naval Command, the Gulf of Guinea region has also become a hub for global energy supplies, with significant amounts of all petroleum products consumed in Europe, North America, and Asia transiting this waterway. He warned that the recent attacks and damage have reached alarming proportions, indicating that data from the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) revealed that it remained the world's piracy hotspot in 2021, accounting for nearly half (43 percent) of all reported piracy incidents in the first three months of 2021. According to the IMB, the Gulf of Guinea saw the highest-ever number of crew kidnappings in 2020, with 130 crew members abducted in 22 separate cases. According to the IMB, pirates operating in the Gulf of Guinea were well-equipped to assault further away from shorelines and were unafraid to take violent action against innocent crews, necessitating teamwork and cooperation to put a stop to their activities. -CDA Consult || Contributor 31.05.2023 LISTEN Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation Company Limited (BOST) Managing Director, Edwin Alfred Provencal, has been awarded the prestigious "Exemplary Brand Leadership Award from Brand Ghana. In recognition of his achievement, the Ghana Union of Professional Students (GUPS) has presented him with a citation to encourage him to continue to work even harder. In a speech, the President of GUPS, Ms. Emily Jemimah Nyarko, congratulated Mr. Provencal on the award and expressed his admiration for his outstanding leadership skills. She also commended him for his commitment to excellence, which has led to the growth and success of BOST. Mr. Provencal, in his response, expressed his gratitude for the award and recognition. He also thanked his team at BOST for their dedication and hard work, which has made the company what it is today. The Exemplary Brand Leadership Award is a testament to Mr. Provencal's dedication and commitment to his work, and it is hoped that this recognition will inspire him to continue to lead BOST to greater heights. 31.05.2023 LISTEN The Regional Maritime University (RMU) must set the standards for the auxiliary agents responsible for the recruitment of seafarers to comply with those regulations, Captain Christopher Obeng-Adamu, RMU Master Mariner and Lecturer has stated. He added the validity of the licenses of Ghanaian seafarers must be maintained at all times through periodic reorientation and revalidation with mother institutions so that they do not expire and render the seafarers unqualified. Capt. Obeng-Adamu stated this at a Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) forum at Tema, which was monitored by the Communication for Development and Advocacy Consult (CDA Consult) in Tema. He said in order for long-term benefits to be realized, like in the Philippines, the government must plan and define goals to be accomplished within set timeframes, adding that seagoing must be made attractive for the ordinary Ghanaian youth. Capt. Obeng-Adamu stated that to remain desirable on the international market, Ghana must comply with the conventions that govern the conduct of maritime education training, meaning Contributing to the discussion Captain Georgina Jopap, a Maritime Safety and Security Consultant, emphasized the need for a deliberate government policy to train seafarers, using Bangladesh and other countries as examples. She said, "The government of Bangladesh entered into a bilateral agreement with the Japanese government where they source their crew from Bangladesh. Similarly, in Brazil, when they found oil, the government made a deliberate and conscious effort to ensure local participation in the offshore exploration sector. She stressed, "They paid the insurance premium of the Brazilians when safety risk factors were raised, 10 years later, Brazil has a full complement of trained officers and workers to work in their offshore industry". Capt. Jopap, who was the first African woman to qualify as a Master Mariner, urged the government to initiate the creation of maritime training centres that would be responsible for training ratings at sea, separate from the Regional Maritime University, which was dedicated to training officers. Capt. William Amanhyia, RMU Master Mariner and Lecturer on his part said that the nation must invest in training more seafarers to tap into the global opportunity for about 800,000 seafarers to man new generational ships. Capt. Amanhyia explained that the Ghanaian seafarers were very fit for purpose, as the country has a training scheme that has been on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) whitelist for years. According to him, even though interest in seafaring has been waning globally, Ghanas maritime sector has started extensive programmes that encourage people to go to sea; therefore, he believes that with the proper policies and the government's backing in training facilities, the country should be able to make a lot from it. Capt. Amanhyia also noted that participants at an IMO Conference on Low Carbon Shipping, which took place in Mombasa, Kenya, collectively recognized that the decarbonization of shipping has brought the opportunity to develop and train new maritime skills. He said this presented an opportunity for Africans to meet the labour demand, noting that "if we expect about 800,000 seafarers in Africa to man the new ships, we as Ghana can target 400,000 just like the Philippines, and we should be able to make half of what they make. It is actually a gold mine." He indicated that Ghana must tap into it as it could lead to the kind of success experienced by the Philippines, where a vibrant and buoyant economy had been built on the back of seafarer exportation, raking in close to 7 billion dollars annually. -CDA Consult || Contributor The United States is taking one step after another regarding Bangladesh. The latest step is the new visa policy ahead of the elections. Foreign Minister Blinken announced this visa policy on behalf of the United States on May 24. But the US did not hold any talks with India before announcing this visa policy. India is the major country of the subcontinent and India's role in influencing the dynamics of politics in the subcontinent is important. The US in particular is very dependent on India to break China's monopoly. But the US has been taking one step after another in relation to Bangladesh excluding India and these steps have now become a cause of discomfort for India. There has been a kind of reaction in India on how the new visa policy has been formulated keeping India in the dark. In the days gone by, the US was always dependent on India to see Bangladesh issue through the lens of India. Especially after 2008, India completely depended on the United States regarding Bangladesh. In 2007, India and the United States adopted a common position and common policy regarding Bangladesh case. The US also agreed with India's position on restoring democracy and supported India's approach in the 2014 elections. The same situation happened in 2018. India helped Bangladesh to be a stable democratic Bangladesh time to time. But since then, the situation started to change. Especially after Joe Biden became the president, the United States is taking a more aggressive role in relation to Bangladesh and some decisions are being taken by bypassing India in adopting these aggressive roles. India is the United States' key ally in maintaining the subcontinent's stability for strategic reasons. But diplomatic circles believe that India will respond negatively if it is excluded from a continent-wide nation's decision-making process. In this case, China's gain would be huge. The USA should realize this. India is the biggest partner of USA for maintaining the stability of this subcontinent due to strategic reasons. But when India is left out of the decision-making process of a country in the continent, diplomatic circles feel that it will create an adverse reaction for India. On the other hands, this type of actions can help raise anti-India elements in Bangladesh would would pose a serious threat to the Indian interest in the region. Given its volatile and violent past, a slight misstep may make it politically vulnerable, which will be bad news for the subcontinent and especially for India. India is not working in harmony with the United States' position regarding some important issuess in Bangladesh in recent times. India has some strategic position regarding Bangladesh. Diplomats believe that India will not accept any situation in which India's interests will be undermined as a result of continued pressure on Bangladesh elections. Because since 2008 Bangladesh has played an admirable role in suppressing separatists and radical fundamentalists. India gets its strategic advantage. India, therefore, feels that the political unrest in Bangladesh should not be taken to a point where the stability of democracy in Bangladesh is threatened and Indian separatist militant extremists gain ground. Former director-general of Indian NSG (National Security Guard), Jayanto Narayan Choudhury, said recently that the security challenges India faced in its northeastern region have been controlled and managed, in part thanks to the enormous assistance Bangladesh has provided. It is true that Bangladesh played a major role in ensuring peace in Northeast India. Bangladesh is responsible for laying the foundation for a tranquil Northeast India. Northeast Indian provinces are gaining as regional states. Bangladesh has been crucial in the regions efforts to reduce terrorism. Northeast India, especially Assam, has been liberated from separatism and extremism thanks to Bangladeshs transfer of ULFA fighters to India. The northeast region comprising Indias eight northeastern States (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim) is undergoing dramatic change. It has overcome several (but not all) security challenges and is now heading toward economic development. Political changes have been helpful. So is the extensive web of linkages with neighbouring Bangladesh. Besides, Japan has emerged as a significant development partner for both India and Bangladesh. The third India-Japan Intellectual Dialogue (April 1112, 2023), hosted by the Asian Confluence (ASCON), in Agartala, Tripura, was an ideal opportunity to assess the evolving thinking of experts and policymakers. It showed that the current decade may produce path-breaking changes in the northeast, bringing the troika of Bangladesh, India and Japan closer. Bangladesh declared its 'Indo-Pacific outlook recently. The USA, Japan, India are allied with each other to counter China. Now, the question is here that if India, Japan, Bangladesh are edging closer to build a regional triad on common value, why not USA would collaborate with Bangladesh in this regard? Japan, India, Bangladesh and USA must have mutual strategic interest in the region. Six months ago, the United States decided on a new visa policy for Bangladesh due to the fear that the next election will not be fair. But that is not the issue. When the United States takes such a position in relation to various countries, such a decision comes in the context of many 'misunderstandings'. Now, India has to paly role to dispel misunderstanding. But some people also think that the strategy adopted by the United States in the name of democracy in Bangladesh has created a danger of destabilizing the country. In such a situation, it is assumed that what kind of attitude India takes towards the action of the United States will be understood very soon. Rising US and Western pressure may drive Bangladesh government closer to China because its veto in the United Nations can block adverse resolutions seeking to haul up Bangladesh. its strategic alliance with the US to take on China makes it difficult for Delhi to take on Washington head-on over Bangladesh. If Bangladesh goes the Pakistan and Sri Lanka way, whatd be left for India in its neighbourhood? Beijings strategic encirclement of its biggest Asian rival would be almost complete. India's any mismanagement regarding Bangladesh case would benefit China. it will only add to Indias geopolitical woes in its east where endemic violence and Chinese ingress continues to stymie New Delhis geoeconomic aspirations. On the brighter side, the country has witnessed unprecedented infrastructure-building activity, including the Padma bridge. The size of the economy grew by over 4.5 times. Per-capita income grew at a faster pace. From untold enemies, India and Bangladesh became development partners, with areas of cooperation ranging from economy to security. Connectivity increased manifold. Nearly 26 lakhs Bangladeshis visited India in 2019. Trade volume increased by nearly 4.5 times to $15.7 billion in 2021. This is not a welcome situation either for the region or for India. The only solace that Delhi may take that it must always stand with Hasina government at any cost for ensuring its own interest. Hasina stopped the use of Bangladeshi territories for cross-border terrorism, bringing a sigh of relief to the subcontinent which is already suffering from the breeding grounds of terrorists in Pakistan. It is natural, therefore, that in these difficult times, India should look forward to maintaining close relations with Bangladesh. The US should remember that. But the economic crisis in Bangladesh has been brewing amid increasing prices of essential items, fuel, and frequent power cuts, a cascading spate of woes chiefly triggered by the ongoing Ukraine War that has forced the government to suspend gas and diesel imports amid high energy prices. Although Bangladeshs macro-economic position took a hit in the heel during the waves of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, the discontentment of the masses was majorly catalysed by the Ukraine factor that crippled the economy. However, the ruckus in Bangladesh will not be very good for India, especially when Chinas incursions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) are not stopping. Given the relationship between India and Bangladesh, India definitely can, and should play a role in facilitating and strengthening ties between Bangladesh and USA. As a friend of both Bangladesh and Myanmar, improvements can be made if India pushes them a little bit and put[s] a little effort into it. Support from India in resolving the Rohingya situation can strengthen the bilateral ties more. It is said that Bangladesh is all-weather friend of India, Thus, India can prove that India is really all-weather friend of Bangladesh by standing with Bangladesh with its crisis moment. India has been a dependable development partner ever since Bangladesh gained its independence in 1971. it was India and the people of India who gave the people of Bangladesh shelter and accommodation and also helped them in gaining independence, with a population of 170 million, Bangladesh is one of the fastest-growing countries in the area and an important market for India. The Supreme Court has given a ruling on President Akufo-Addos directive to former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo, asking him to proceed on leave three years ago. The President in July 2020, asked Daniel Domelevo to proceed on leave to the shock of Ghanaians who felt he was doing a great job as the countrys Auditor-General. The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has directed Mr. Daniel Yaw Domelevo, the Auditor-General, to take his accumulated annual leave of one hundred and twenty-three (123) working days, according to records available to the Presidency, with effect from Wednesday, 1st July 2020. The Presidents decision to direct Mr. Domelevo to take his accumulated annual leave is based on sections 20(1) and 31 of the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), which apply to all workers, including public office holders such as the Auditor-General. According to the Act, a worker is entitled to annual leave with full pay, in a calendar year of continuous service, which cannot be relinquished or forgone by the worker or the employer, a release from the Presidency said. Unhappy with the development, nine civil society groups sued the Attorney General over the directives. The groups including the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Ghana Integrity Initiative, (GII), Citizen Movement Ghana, Africa Center for Energy Policy (ACEP), and Parliamentary Network Africa argued that the directives were unlawful since the President did not have the power to exercise such disciplinary control over independent bodies. Today, the Supreme Court has in a unanimous decision described as unconstitutional the directive from the Presidency that asked former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo to proceed on leave. The apex court also indicated that the Presidents appointment of an Acting Auditor General while there was a substantive Auditor-General was equally unconstitutional. Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana (UG), Legon, Professor Randsford Gyampo wants the Member Parliament (MP) for Kwadaso, Professor Kingsley Nyarko, to produce the evidence he has against him for allegedly stating that then opposition candidate Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo could never be president of Ghana. This comes on the back of a comment made by the Kwadaso MP on Kumasi-based Oyerepa FM, Wednesday, 31 May 2023. The Kwadaso MP had asserted during the interview that the Political Science lecturer had written the then candidate Akufo-Addo off regarding becoming President of Ghana after the latter had condemned the president for requesting for the CVs of officers of the Electoral Commission (EC). He told me that Akufo-Addo cannot be president in this country. He told me, 2016, he told me that he cannot win. If you like put him on-air let him come and deny, the Kwadaso MP asserted. Reacting to the Kwadaso MPs comments in a Facebook post, however, the Political Science lecturer said the facts on the ground do not support Prof Nyarkos allegations. Stop the lies. You are an honorable Member of Parliament. I never told you anywhere in 2016 that Akufo-Addo cannot be President of Ghana. If you claim I did and you have the evidence, just bring it out. Indeed, the facts on the ground as at 2016, cannot support your congenital lie, the Political Science lecturer stated. According to Prof Gyampo, Ghanaians are not ignorant of his stance against former President John Dramani Mahama back in 2016. Every Ghanaian who is politically switched on, unlike you, knew my stands against John Mahama in 2016. I voted for Akufo-Addo myself and I was one of the loudest critics of the John Mahama regime in a manner that made me earn the tag as being in bed with the NPP. You liked me so much because I took the Mahama government on. A simple check of the records will show, he noted. He described the comments of the Kwadaso MP as madness indicating that simply because I am disappointed in the President I voted for in 2016 and have refused to be a partisan sycophant like you, doesnt mean I hate the President. Prof Gyampo further described the Kwadaso MP as a coward, who chooses to criticise his party privately. You are a coward. You gossip and criticise your party to me privately. You know that many of the issues I have spoken against the internal conduct of affairs in your party have been given to me from complaints from people like you. Havent you for instance always lambasted your party and the President for failing to appoint you a minister or deputy, thinking you most qualify than virtually all the current appointees? Prof Gyampo quizzed. As an academic, you know the principle of academic freedom. You must, therefore, not gossip about your party privately to some of us and publicly pretend all is well. I deny your lies and reject any insinuation from you that I hate the President or have a personal score to settle with him. I am nobody and a common ordinary citizen. My hatred or otherwise for the number [one] citizen of the land is inconsequential and cannot matter. But lets assume for the purposes of argument that, I told you Nana Addo cannot be President (even though you know I voted for him), have you been satisfied with his Presidency? Why do you always say hmmm privately when we talk about his presidency? Prof Gyampo wrote. He continued that: I dont hate the President. I have only decided to be a citizen, not a spectator. As you have always known me, I am unfortunately unable to be a coward and a sycophant. Prof Gyampo added: The President, I maintain, has no business calling for the CVs of Directors of the Electoral Commission. He cannot be allowed to extend the tentacles of his political-kingkonism to an independent body that is currently fighting to overcome its legitimacy deficits. How does saying this, make me hate the President? It is childish for anyone to reason along this line, stop it. -classfmonline.com 31.05.2023 LISTEN A total of 10,128 sanctions have been imposed on Russia - more than against any other country in the entire history of this dubious instrument in terms of justice, international law and humanism itself. Moreover, originally meant to destroy the Russian economy, the sanctions have been particularly damaging to other countries, if not entire regions, such as Africa. A year ago, the European Union impounded around 300,000 tons of fertilizers from Russia over strong protests voiced by many African leaders and experts who warned that if barriers erected on the way of Russian fertilizers next year were not removed, Africa would face hunger. Back in August of last year, Russia offered to transfer the entire volume of its seized fertilizers to needy countries on a free of charge basis, but it took about six months to send the first batch to Malawi. However, this African nation is far from being the only country in need of fertilizers and grain. The well-fed European officials apparently have no such problems and just couldnt care less about Africa. Well, have they ever cared about Africa, after all? Russia has never been like this and it isnt now. The Soviet Union played a decisive role in how fast and in what direction the process of the collapse of the colonial system of imperialism unfolded. Moreover, the Soviet support was not just for show, it was real. Even today, despite all problems, Russia is contributing in every possible way to the development of the entire African continent, having sent almost 12 million tons of grain to the African countries. It could have sent more, but the West is making every effort possible to prevent this happening. For example, the State Grain Operator (SGO), a state-owned enterprise in the Zaporozhye region, which collects, stores, processes and delivers grain and, most importantly, sells it abroad, came under US sanctions. The SGO took over the management of the lands and facilities abandoned by their Ukrainian and foreign owners. Private farmers who live and work in the Zaporozhye region continue to own their property and cooperate with the grain operator. The SGO was created to help farmers. It buys grain from local producers at a high price (several times higher than under the Kiev regime) and sells it to consumers both in the Russian Federation and abroad. Although the sanctions did not completely cut off exports, they still are seriously interfering with the operation of this enterprise and are jacking up the price for the end consumer due to the need to use more seaports and the services of intermediate distributors. It is also worth mentioning the fact that the grain grown in the Zaporozhye region is of the highest quality. The State Grain Operator can store about a million tons of grain. This is about one tenth of the semi-annual import volume of the largest buyers of Russian grain (Turkey, Egypt, Iran) or the entire six-month import volume of Sudan or Bangladesh. The West is working hard to prevent this grain from getting to the world market. Farmers in Russia and the Zaporozhye region, in particular, continue to plant their fields and work, despite regular shelling by the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The SGO is the first company to invite a foreign delegation to the region, despite the sanctions. Journalists and observers from friendly countries (Turkey, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Italy, etc.) visited the new region and saw with their own eyes how local agriculture is developing under sanctions pressure. After the visit to the region, Ethiopian journalist Ledet Muleta noted: Ive worked as part of a humanitarian mission and I know what food costs, and that Africans are in dire need of food. ... Sanctions are another form of war, another weapon that is directed against farmers in the Zaporozhye region. It is very surprising that people have such willpower that allows them to carry out, against all odds, the sowing campaign. It is very surprising that the same organizations that impose sanctions also sell weapons and contribute to the escalation of the armed conflict. During a news conference, Turkish journalist Ozgur Altinbash said: What we saw during the visit was very interesting. We saw in Zaporozhye how people come back to life. And the local people all told us that under the Ukrainian regime they had no development, but after Russia moved in development began and better opportunities appeared. Under Kievs rule all factories, all infrastructure facilities were in private hands and did not work for the benefit of the population. There were a lot of positive, reasonable and kind responses from journalists, because they had a chance to see with their own eyes how things are in the new regions of Russia and how the people who live there want to join the Russian path, aimed at building an equal, fair and multipolar world without discrimination, war and hunger. With artillery shelling by the Ukrainian military continuing unabated, the foreign journalists visited one of the elevators, which suffered from such bombardment. Ukraine destroys civilian facilities depriving not only the people of Russia, but also those in other countries, above all in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia of food. By Dayana da Silva Brussels-based Communicology expert. Dayana serves as the Intl Institute IFIMES Research Fellow, and its Brussels EU-AU liaison. In a landmark ruling, a Lagos State Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court in Nigeria has sentenced a 42-year-old man, Suleiman Usman to life imprisonment for defiling his eight-year-old daughter. Justice Rahman Oshodi convicted and sentenced Usman after finding him guilty of the offence, which contravened Section 137 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015, a Nigeria-based Punch Newspaper reports. During the trial, the prosecution called four witnesses, including the eight-year-old victim, the Investigative Police Officer, the defendants wife (mother of the victim), and a medical doctor from Mirabel Centre. The victim identified the convict as her father and narrated to the court how he defiled her repeatedly and warned her not to inform her mother. She later told her teacher, who was close to her mother. The defendants wife stated in her testimony that she went to her daughters school teacher to help her get information on why her daughter was not walking properly. Usman, in his testimony, told the court that his wife lied against him because he wanted to relocate her to the village. Justice Oshodi described Usmans heinous act as taboo, animalistic, and cruel, saying, Sulaiman Usman, what sexual pleasure did you want from your biological daughter? What you have done is taboo. It is animalistic and cruel. It is unacceptable, and you must be punished." Accordingly, I sentence you, Sulaiman Usman, to life imprisonment. Your name shall be registered as a sex offender in the Lagos State Sexual Offenders Register, he pronounced. The court held that the prosecution failed to prove the second charge against the convict, as the victim did not testify to the second charge related to her defilement. However, on the first count, the court held that the survivors testimony corroborated that of the medical doctor. The state government had arraigned Usman on two counts of defilement, to which he pleaded not guilty. He was first arraigned before Justice Sybil Nwaka in October 2019 before the judge was elevated to the Court of Appeal, and the case file was reassigned to Justice Oshodi. Edem Senanu, Co-Chair of the Citizens Movement against Corruption, one of the Civil Society Organizations (CSO) that sued the Attorney General has welcomed the Supreme Court ruling on the action of President Akufo-Addo as unconstitutional. The apex court gave the ruling on Wednesday, May 31. In 2020, Mr Domelovo was forced by the presidency to take 169 working days of accumulated leave. A statement from the Communications Directorate of the Jubilee House further directed Mr. Domelevo to hand over his office to his Deputy, Mr. Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu. In an interview on the mid-day news with Martin Asiedu Darteh on TV3 Wednesday, May 31 Mr Senanu said the court ruling sends a clear message to the executive arm of government that it cannot interfere with the functions of independent institutions of the state such as the Audit Service. I think civil society was very united on this issue that it was not right for the Auditor-General to have been told to proceed on leave. The manner the whole thing went, it just did not fit well with our legal framework and so we are delighted, Mr Senanu said. Asked whether Mr Domelevo should be brought back, he said We need to get Mr Domelevo and ask him what he wants to do. I guess he has moved on and it may not be a simple thing to say you are turning back the tide of time. More likely we are going to look at what we have to do moving forward. The beauty is that it sends a message to the executive branch of government that one needs to be cautious. When there are independent institutions of state set up as a counterbalance and you begin to influence the decisions of their processes, that will not augur well for our democracy, so it is a win for Ghana in terms of the separation of powers and the balance of powers in order to make sure that this country can run well, Mr Senanu asserted. 31.05.2023 LISTEN Renowned Ghanaian writer, Prof. Ama Ata Aidoo has been confirmed dead. The writer died in the early hours of Wednesday, May 31, 2023. The family of the esteemed literary icon announced her demise. Prof. Ama Ata Aidoo, known for her exceptional contributions to African literature, bid farewell after a brief illness. Her passing leaves a void in the literary world, as she touched the hearts and minds of readers worldwide with her insightful and thought-provoking works. The acclaimed writer, born on March 23, 1942, in Abeadzi Kyiakor, Ghana, achieved international recognition for her novel Our Sister Killjoy and her play Anowa. Prof. Aidoos literary prowess extended beyond the boundaries of fiction, encompassing poetry, drama, and essays. Her works tackled diverse themes, including gender roles, African identity, and post-colonialism, resonating with readers across generations. Prof. Ama Ata Aidoos contributions to the literary landscape have been widely celebrated, earning her numerous accolades throughout her career. She received the Commonwealth Writers Prize for Best Book in Africa for her novel Changes in 1992. Additionally, she was honored with the prestigious Ghanatta Award for Literature in 2018, recognizing her enduring impact on Ghanaian and African literature. Beyond her writing, Prof. Aidoo was an educator and advocate for womens empowerment. She served as a lecturer at the University of Cape Coast in Ghana and was actively involved in promoting education and the arts in her country. As news of her passing spreads, tributes pour in from fellow writers, scholars, and admirers of her work. Many recognize Prof. Ama Ata Aidoo as a trailblazer who fearlessly challenged societal norms and opened doors for African women writers. Her literary legacy will continue to inspire and shape the literary landscape for years to come. The family of Prof. Aidoo requests privacy during this time of mourning, as they prepare to bid their final farewell to a beloved relative and celebrate the indelible mark she left on the world of literature. Sudanese army forces blasted paramilitary bases with artillery in Khartoum on Wednesday after pulling out of US and Saudi-brokered ceasefire talks, accusing their paramilitary foes of failing to honour their commitments. Mediators have blamed both sides for violating the truce which was supposed to enable secure corridors for delivering aid to an increasingly needy population. In both the north and south of the capital, key bases of commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo's Rapid Support Forces came under attack by troops loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, residents told AFP. A witness said there was "heavy artillery fire from army camps" in northern Khartoum, on the 47th day of a war that researchers said has claimed at least 1,800 lives. Another witness reported "artillery blasts on the RSF camp in al-Salha" in southern Khartoum -- the largest paramilitary base and arsenal stock in the capital. The attacks came two days after United States and Saudi mediators said the warring parties had agreed to extend by five days the initial week-long humanitarian truce. The mediators of the talks, in the Saudi city of Jeddah, acknowledged repeated breaches but have held off imposing any sanctions. 'Fight until victory' The army walked out "because the rebels have never implemented a single one of the provisions of a short-term ceasefire which required their withdrawal from hospitals and residential buildings", a Sudanese government official said on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the press. The mediators admitted the truce had been "imperfectly observed" but said the extension "will permit further humanitarian efforts". Sudan conflict: over 1,800 victims. By Sophie RAMIS, Nalini LEPETIT-CHELLA, Laurence SAUBADU (AFP) Despite repeated pledges from both sides, fighting has flared this week both in greater Khartoum and in the western region of Darfur. "The army is ready to fight until victory," Burhan declared during a visit to troops in the capital. The RSF, led by Burhan's deputy-turned-foe Daglo, said they would "exercise their right to defend themselves" and accused the army of violating the truce. Sudan specialist Aly Verjee said the mediators had been eager to avoid a complete breakdown of the talks, for fear of a major escalation on the ground. "The mediators know that the situation is bad," but were hoping for "arrangements that are better respected," Verjee, a researcher at Sweden's University of Gothenburg, said before the army's withdrawal from the talks. Snipers, air strikes On Sunday the mediators said both forces had disrupted humanitarian efforts, including through the presence of snipers near hospitals in RSF-controlled territory, and army "elements" stealing medical supplies. There has been widespread looting and arson in the Sudanese capital Khartoum. By - (AFP) They said RSF occupied "civilian homes, private businesses, and public buildings", some of which were looted, while SAF has flown military aircraft daily during the ceasefire, "including a confirmed airstrike on May 27 in Khartoum that reportedly killed two people." African Union spokesman Mohamed El Hacen Lebatt told AFP on Wednesday that the army's walking out "should not discourage the United States and Saudi Arabia". Since fighting erupted between the rival security forces on April 15, more than 1,800 people have been killed, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. The United Nations says 1.2 million people have been internally displaced and more than 425,000 have fled to neighbouring countries. More than half the population -- 25 million people -- are now in need of aid and protection, the UN says. Entire districts of Khartoum no longer have running water, electricity is only available for a few hours a week, and three quarters of hospitals in combat zones are out of service. The health ministry said Wednesday that "nine health facilities" had gone out of service in Jazira state, just south of Khartoum, "despite the declared truce". Smoke billowing over the Sudanese capital has been a daily sight for residents, nearly 700.000 of whom have fled their homes, according to UN figures. By - (AFP) The ministry blamed the closures on "the presence of RSF militias threatening the movement of medical personnel and supplies". Hundreds have been killed in Darfur, on Sudan's western border with Chad, where continued fighting "blatantly disregards ceasefire commitments", Toby Harward, of the UN refugee agency, said earlier. Despite the increasing needs, the UN says it has only received 13 percent of the $2.6 billion it requires. Some 79 illegal miners who got trapped in AngloGold Ashanti's shaft have exited. The trespassers exited through the main exit and were taken into custody by the Ghana Police Service for interrogation. "The individuals, who had entered the underground area without authorisation, walked out of the mine through the main exit point on their own accord and are in the custody of the Ghana Police Service", the miner said in a statement. It added that there were "no injuries" reported. Some youth of Obuasi massed up at the police station to demand the release of the first few galamseyers that were arrested after their exit. Soldiers and police personnel had to be deployed to the area to restore calm. AngloGold said: "We are grateful for the collaborative efforts of our security personnel, and the police in ensuring the safe and orderly exit of these individuals". "It is important to reiterate that the main exit ramp from the mine, which is remote from the currently active working areas of the mine, remains open allowing any unauthorised persons underground to exit at any time". "Those who may still be underground are strongly encouraged to utilise the designated exit points, where public security personnel remain on standby". "The safety and security of our employees and community members remain our top priority and AngloGold Ashanti Ghana stands ready to provide any assistance required by the authorities in ensuring the safe exit of any unauthorised persons underground". Source: classfmonline.com Some of our guys in NPP seem not to understand that, since we are going to elect a candidate to be sold in a market, the most important thing to consider first when strategizing to win the 2024 election, is the market. It is the market that will help you to determine the right candidate to produce for it. So, market analysis comes first before candidate analysis. Knowing, for instance, that a market is dominated by Jews or Muslims, is what will help you to know that producing pork steak, bacon and ham to sell in the market will make you lose the market to someone selling cow or goat meat. If you want to know how good cassava is, what do you do? You put it on fire! In the same vein, if you want to know how good a candidate is, what do you do? You juxtapose him with the market. It is that simple! As I have always pointed out, marketability of a product depends more on the nature of the market in which it would be sold than even the quality of the product itself. I know some of you feel jittery whenever the issue of market analysis comes up because it makes your candidate appear very weak in this Christian dominated political market of ours. But, how can we rightly analyse the chances of any candidate without situating the analysis in the context of the political market in which he or she would be sold? When I predicted that the former Nigerian Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, was going to be rejected by APC delegates, I was aware of his background as a knowledgeable Professor of law. But, I knew his credentials meant nothing to the market. My analysis of his chances was purely in respect of the nature and recent dynamics of the Nigerian political market, which is dominated by the Muslim community. Im a Christian alright, but I predicted strongly that Alhaji Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the new President, was going to win against the then Christian Vice President, who was the former Presidents preferred choice. Not only that, I also predicted his win over Obi, another Christian, when he made the APC ticket Muslim-Muslim ticket. I knew that was going to give them the numbers to win. You see, objectivity has no religious creed. My numbers-based analysis and predictions were spot on because thats the reality. You ignore the reality at your own peril. So, when, on the basis of the Ghanaian Christian-dominated political market analysis, I postulate that it would be politically imprudent and suicidal to present a non-Christian candidate against a formidable Christian opponent in a very competitive election in a country of about 72% Christians, it isnt because Im a religious bigot. No! Again, when I argue that having a candidate like Alan Kyerematen against John Mahama, would help the party to maximise its advantage in the Akan regions, particularly in Ashanti Region, to have the numbers to win, it doesnt also make me a tribal bigot. No! It wasnt a coincidence that Alhaji Tinubu, a Yoruba man, won in all the Yoruba dominated States in Nigeria, except Lagos. APC broke the 8 because they were market-conscious. They didnt give room to political pettiness. Thats why the Christians in APC didnt complain when the ticket was made a Muslim-Muslimticket. Market-based strategy is the way to go! We must go the APC way to break the 8. When PDP picked Alhaji Atiku from the North, they picked Alhaji Tinubu from the South to avoid PDP having any religious advantage over them. Alan Kyerematen is our best bet if we want to win the majority of the Christian and Akan votes to break the 8. I suggest we maintain our Christian-Muslim ticket though! Shalom shalom! E. G. Buckman 31.05.2023 LISTEN In the ever-evolving landscape of information dissemination, the Information Services Department (ISD) of Ghana has played a crucial role in connecting the government with its people. Over the years, the ISD has transformed and adapted to meet the changing needs of society, leaving an indelible mark on the progress of the nation. Let us delve into the journey of the ISD, from its humble beginnings to its current state, and explore how it has bridged the information gap for the advancement of Ghana. From War News to Public Relations: The roots of the ISD traces back to the late 1930s when it emerged as a branch of the Colonial Government Secretariat. Its primary objective was to convey news about World War II to the people of Gold Coast, utilizing a weekly journal called the Empire at War. After the war, the organization was renamed the Public Relations Department, assuming oversight responsibility for vital institutions such as the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, the Ghana News Agency and the Ghana Film Industry Corporation. That said, the Department of Information was tasked heavily on recognizing the need to bridge the communication gap between the government and the governed and so the then Gold Coast Government reorganized the Public Relations Department in line with the Coussey Committees recommendations in 1949. This transformation led to the establishment of the Department of Information, a more effective government information disseminating unit. It served as a vital conduit for keeping citizens informed about government policies and programs. Moreover, ISD adapted to a Changing Media Landscape that introduced the advent of news channels marked a significant shift in Ghanas media landscape, providing people with a broader range of news sources and information. As a result, the ISD had to adapt to meet the evolving needs of the public. The iconic information vans, which once traveled across towns and villages, disseminating news and educational programs, gradually made way for news channels of information dissemination. Currently, the ISD has instituted a Transformational and Modernization agenda. While the vision is to become a smart modern Department and the preferred choice for focused and credible source of government information, the Department mission exists to promote public participation and engagement through awareness creation of government policies, programs and activities for national development. In order to be able to carry out this new focus, and in the wake of the increasing influence of digital technologies, the department has invested in developing an advanced digital infrastructure through it Research Division. This infrastructure not only facilitates better data management but also ensures easier access to information for citizens. Again, the ISD in expanding access to information to enhance transparency and citizen engagement, established the Access to Information (ATI) Division in July 2020. This division trains and deploys RTI Officers to various government institutions, ensuring timely access to information requests. Equipped with modern equipment and a dedicated support system, the ATI Division has become a vital resource in providing up-to-date information to the public. Furthermore, in coordinating government information, the Public Relations Coordinating Division (PRCD) also underwent retooling and reorientation to fulfill its role as the central hub for coordinating government information. By staffing Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) with well-trained Public Relations Officers, the PRCD ensures efficient and effective communication between the government and the public. Additionally, the introduction of an online platform called the Bonsu has also been introduced as part of the transformational agenda to enable PROs to send timely updates and information to the Department. The ISD News Room cannot be left out in this era of the changing world of work. As part of the new focus, the news room has also been retooled with several computers and other equipment to help journalist pick up reports from the easily accessible Bonsu Platform which they convert into news stories for publication on the ISD Official website (www.ghanatoday.gov.gh) Meanwhile, while adapting to the changing media landscape, the ISD has not forgotten its roots. Recognizing the enduring power of visual communication, the creative means of reaching citizens across various municipalities. These mobile vans will serve as an innovative platform for delivering engaging content and reaching a wider audience. In conclusion, the journey of the Information Services Department (ISD) is one of continuous evolution, transforming from a wartime news provider to a vital entity bridging the information gap between the government and the people of Ghana. Over the years, the ISD has adapted to new technologies, embraced innovation, and expanded access to information, all in the pursuit of a more informed audiences. The writer is the Head of Public Affairs Unit of the MELR& a staff of the ISD Energy Minister and Member of Parliament (MP) for Manhyia South, Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh (Napo), has denied flying a private jet to celebrate his birthday in Monaco. This comes on the back of a publication alleging that the Energy Minister flew to Monaco on a private jet for his birthday celebration. Responding to the allegation in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Kofi Abrefa Afena said: Among other unintelligent postulations, the publication alleges that the Energy Minister and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South flew a certain phantomised private jet to celebrate his birthday. It noted: On the 23rd of May, 2023, which marked the 55th birthday of Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, he was in Ghana and attended a meeting of the Economic Management Team (EMT). It further noted: On the same day, 23rd May, Dr Prempeh also attended a board meeting of the governing Board of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC). On 24th May, the day after, Dr Prempehs birthday, I was in his house in the morning, at his instance, where he recorded an appreciation message to his well-wishers for the love shown him on his birthday. The Ministers spokesperson continued that Dr Prempeh spent the rest of the day of the 24th in his office, where he carried out his routine official duties. He indicated that: Dr Prempeh after seeking the necessary approval from the Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, travelled abroad on KLM to Athens for a brief holiday. There is incontrovertible evidence in this regard. He continued: Anybody who knows Dr Prempeh very well will corroborate the fact that, he does not attach hype and razzmatazz to his birthdays, except, on those days, as an avid Christian, to be alone in sobriety and to thank the almighty God for his grace and mercies. What happened this year was no different. The general public is kindly asked to completely disregard this publication, the statement added. Source: classfmonline.com Former Auditor General Daniel Yao Domelevo has reacted to the Supreme Court ruling which described as null and void his forced leave by the Presidency. In a Citi News interview, Mr. Domelevo slammed the president, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, for disrespecting the law. The Supreme Court gave the ruling on Wednesday, saying the decision by President Akufo-Addo to force Domelevo to embark on an extended leave was unconstitutional. In 2020, Domelevo was compelled by the presidency to take 169 working days of accumulated leave. Speaking in an interview with Hawah Iddrisu Mustapha on Citi TVs 20/20 News, Mr. Domelevo said he was disappointed that the president, who prides himself as a human rights activist, would breach the constitution with impunity. Justice delayed is justice denied. The justices of the Supreme Court know better From my point of view, its better late than never. So from today going, it will not be repeated on any constitutional body or any Auditor General, that is my happiness. Im equally sad that the highest office of the land, the presidency, is at the forefront of not respecting the constitution of the country, I find it a bit disturbing. Even when I drew their attention, they told me I dont appreciate the law. I am hoping that they will write to the Supreme Court and tell them that they have to go back for law classes since they have upheld the position that I was pushing forward. I think that the ruling was a very good one. Domelevo further added, I dont have anything to say to him [Akufo-Addo], except to tell him that being a human rights lawyer, he should try and respect the laws of the country. The president should be the first person to respect the laws of the country so that private enterprises and individuals can also respect the rights of the citizenry. If the supreme law of the citizenry is violated, then it will be difficult for others to do same. I will urge the president to respect the laws of the country instead of violating them. The former Auditor General said he will not press any charges against the presidency where the taxpayers money will be used to compensate him. He pointed out that he is happy about the ruling, adding that he has been vindicated of all the wrong perceptions some Ghanaians had about him. Domelevo stated, What type of redress? The battle is for the Lord, the most important thing is that the Supreme Court has spoken. And Im happy they have done that. Many Ghanaians thought that there was something untoward that I had done, which the president said I should go on leave. Now that I feel vindicated, I dont think I need any redress beyond that. Many people suggested, and I jokingly tell them why would I take redress so to get compensation from the taxpayers who did nothing to me. The president doesnt pay tax, so Im not interested in taking any further action. -citinewsroom African little girl during her English class - Getty Images 31.05.2023 LISTEN But for Ama, There is No Sweetness Here In every corner of the world, dreams are woven, hopes are nurtured, and aspirations are kindled. Such dreams often find their roots in the hearts of young girls, who envision a future filled with endless possibilities. However, the realization of these dreams is not always a smooth journey, especially for those born into rural communities. This article explores the story of the brilliant village girl, examining whether her shattered dreams are a result of institutional failure or a breakdown of the extended family system in Ghana. The Brilliant Village Girl: The sad story begins with a young, talented girl, hailing from a remote village where education and opportunities are scarce. Against all odds, she manages to defy societal expectations and shines academically. Her brilliance captures the attention of teachers, and even local leaders who recognize her potential. This village girl dreams of escaping the limitations of her circumstances, breaking the cycle of poverty, and achieving great things. It is not her fault to be needy but circumstances have caught up with her. Institutional Failure: While the girl's dreams burn bright, she soon realizes that the institutions that should provide support and enable her growth are either lacking or failing her. The education system in rural areas often faces severe challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, insufficient resources, lack of support from extended family, and a shortage of qualified teachers. Limited access to quality education hampers the brilliant village girl's chances of receiving the education she deserves. The Breakdown of the Extended Family System. Certainly! The "breakdown of the extended family system" refers to a decline or disintegration of the traditional extended family structure within a community or society. The extended family system typically includes multiple generations living together or in close proximity, with a strong emphasis on interdependence and mutual support. Nuclear family structure: The prevalence of nuclear family structures, comprising only parents and their children, is diminishing the role and significance of the extended family. This shift often occurs as societies urbanize and adopt a more individualistic lifestyle. Societal shifts towards individualism and the pursuit of personal goals weaken the emphasis on collective family values and interdependence and consequences are dire in the Ghanaian context. The breakdown of the extended family system has impacts on individuals and society as a whole and the Story of Ama is no different. She can hardly remember any family member she can go to for support, after her dad, is all hope is lost. Currently out of school due to the unbearable hardship her family is facing after the death of her mother. Extended families traditionally provide a strong support system, offering emotional, financial, and practical assistance to their members. This system is not available to support Ama to realize her dream. The advent and adoption of the nuclear family system of age, is leading to a breakdown of our popular Extended family system, when this system breaks down, individuals experience a loss of support, leading to increased stress, isolation, and difficulty in coping with life's challenges. In those days families support their members when the need arises. But the breakdown of this system has left the young girl with no source of support and to her there is no sweetness here after the loss of her mother. Social media of late is full of appeals for support, Help save the life of this, help pay the hospital bill of that Where is our popular extended family system that was able to support families when help is needed? In the past families supports and take care of the life of the children left behind when a relative passed on, but the dream of Ama is on the verge of ending in shambles due to weakening intergenerational bonds in recent years. Extended families before, serve as a bridge between different generations, fostering strong intergenerational bonds, and the passing down of traditions, values, and wisdom. With the breakdown of the extended family system, these bonds may weaken, resulting in a loss of cultural heritage, decreased opportunities for learning from older generations, and a sense of disconnection. I want to use this medium to advocate for support for extended family members, community groups, government agencies, local foundations, and international donor agencies. Let us institute a more inclusive and robust approach by extending a helping to underrepresented and deprived communities and families by strengthening and resourcing institutions to enable them carry out their duties. Dreams and talents are to be supported and realized not shattered, together we can make this world a better place where everyone including girls can rise and thrive. Written by Ebenezer Quaye Girl Rising Ambassador. The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced that it is putting things in place to hold a by-election in Assin North in June to fill the vacant Parliamentary seat in the Constituency. In a press release from the EC signed by Chairperson Jean Mensa, it said the by-election will be held on June 27. In accordance with Article 112 (5) of the Constitution, as amended, the Electoral Commission will hold a By-Election in the Assin North Constituency on Tuesday, the 27th of June, 2023, parts of the release from the Commission said. The release also announced that the Commission will receive Nominations from prospective Candidates for the Election at the Assin North District Office of the Commission from Monday, June 12, to Wednesday, June 14, between the hours of 9:00 am - 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm on each day. The filing fee for the election is Ten thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS10,000.00) per candidate. Find more in the release from the Electoral Commission below: ASSIN NORTH CONSTITUENCY PARLIAMENTARY BY-ELECTION The Electoral Commission wishes to inform the General Public that following the Supreme Court's ruling on Wednesday, 17th May, 2023, to the effect that the election of Mr. James Gyakye Quayson as Member of Parliament for the Assin North Constituency, was "unconstitutional, null and void and of no legal effect," the seat of the Constituency in Parliament has become vacant. In accordance with Article 112 (5) of the Constitution, as amended, the Electoral Commission will hold a By-Election in the Assin North Constituency on Tuesday, the 27th of June, 2023. Accordingly, the Commission will receive Nominations from prospective Candidates for the Election of a Member of Parliament for the said Constituency. The Nominations will be received at the Assin North District Office of the Commission from Monday, the 12th of June, 2023 to Wednesday, the 14th of June, 2023 between the hours of 9:00 am - 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm on each day. Interested candidates are required to download the Nomination Forms from the Commission's website (www.ec.gov.gh) from the 1st of June, 2023. A prospective Candidate may personally deliver or cause to be delivered on his/her behalf by either the Proposer or Seconder of his/her Nomination, the completed Nomination Forms to the Returning Officer at the Assin North District Office of the Commission, on the dates and times stated above. The Nomination Forms for each Candidate shall be witnessed by the signature or mark of two (2) registered voters, as Proposer and Seconder, and supported by eighteen (18) other registered voters in the Constituency as assenting to the Nominations. The Nomination Forms shall also be endorsed with the Candidate's consent to the Nomination. A Candidate shall at the time of submitting his/her completed Nomination Forms, provide the Returning Officer with two (2) copies of a recent post card (bust sized) photograph against a red background, showing his/her full face and ears. The filing fee for the election is Ten thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS10,000.00) per candidate. All completed Nomination Forms are expected to be delivered in quadruplicate. Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has urged all factions in the Bawku conflict to collaborate with Government and other key stakeholders to resolve any issues that have derailed the peace and development of the area. Addressing the Chiefs, Queenmothers and peoples of the Upper East Region in Bolgatanga on Wednesday, 31st May, 2023, Dr Bawumia expressed anguish at the attacks, injuries and compromised security in the Bawku area, which has impacted negatively not just on the area, but the nation as a whole. "As a son of the soil, my heart breaks about what is happening in Bawku. The conflict in Bawku is very unfortunate because we are really one people, and we should be together, and not fighting. And so I hope that the initiatives that Government has initiated through the House of Chiefs and the Otumfuo that is ongoing will help us to bring lasting peace to the Bawku area and therefore help us develop our part of the country because conflict leads to poverty and that has been shown very clearly. For us on the part of Government, we understand that to prevent conflict and to enhance peace, we have to make sure that development in Ghana is inclusive. Everybody must feel a part of the development that we see in the country. When people are excluded, they are more susceptible to extremist ideas, he noted. Vice President Bawumia made the call for peace and prosperity when he, accompanied by the United States Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Virginia Palmer and the Minister Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, commissioned the extensively renovated offices of the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs, at Bolgatanga. Urging Chiefs to support Government to bring about lasting peace, Dr Bawumia observed that many conflicts in the country have their roots in Chieftaincy disputes. "Governments major bane as far as security is concerned has been Chieftaincy-related. The scarce resources which could have otherwise been channeled to other basic developmental projects are being sacked into waste. "Peace they say is a sine-qua-non to development. There is therefore the need for more collaborative efforts to step up our game towards prevention and control of conflicts. We in this part of the country are already vulnerable and what is happening across the (Burkina Faso) border puts us in a more precarious situation. For us on the part of Government, we understand that to prevent conflict and to enhance peace, we have to make sure that development in Ghana is inclusive. Everybody must feel a part of the development that we see in the country. When people are excluded, they are more susceptible to extremist ideas, he noted. Despite the challenges, Dr Bawumia assured of Governments continued support for the Chieftaincy institution, emphasizing that the NPP and its tradition have always held the institution of Chieftaincy in very high esteem, evidenced in the recognition of Chieftaincy as part of the central government structures by the K A Busia administration in 1971. "In the current 4th republican dispensation the NPP government under Presidents J.A. Kufuor and Akufo-Addo also created the Ministry for Chieftaincy just like any other sector of the country. All the legislative frameworks were enacted during our tenure. "The current Minister, Hon Stephen Asamoah Boateng has started well and he will need your wise counsel and cooperation to make the institution more productive and development-oriented." American Century Companies Inc. decreased its holdings in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (NYSE:CP Get Rating) (TSE:CP) by 0.3% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 4,411,340 shares of the transportation companys stock after selling 13,212 shares during the period. American Century Companies Inc. owned approximately 0.47% of Canadian Pacific Kansas City worth $328,974,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in CP. BDO Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 928.6% in the 4th quarter. BDO Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 360 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $27,000 after acquiring an additional 325 shares during the last quarter. Romano Brothers AND Company bought a new stake in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in the 4th quarter valued at about $29,000. Kayne Anderson Rudnick Investment Management LLC purchased a new position in Canadian Pacific Kansas City during the 3rd quarter valued at about $29,000. WJ Interests LLC purchased a new position in Canadian Pacific Kansas City during the 4th quarter valued at about $43,000. Finally, Guardian Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Canadian Pacific Kansas City during the 3rd quarter valued at about $50,000. Institutional investors own 72.31% of the companys stock. Get Canadian Pacific Kansas City alerts: Canadian Pacific Kansas City Price Performance CP stock traded down $1.46 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $75.69. The companys stock had a trading volume of 355,868 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,937,208. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited has a 1 year low of $65.17 and a 1 year high of $83.44. The company has a quick ratio of 0.56, a current ratio of 0.66 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46. The company has a market capitalization of $70.47 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.55, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.14 and a beta of 1.02. The companys fifty day moving average is $78.60 and its 200-day moving average is $77.99. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Cuts Dividend Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 31st. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 30th will be paid a $0.141 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 29th. This represents a $0.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.75%. Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys payout ratio is presently 18.54%. A number of research analysts recently issued reports on the company. CIBC reduced their price target on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$128.00 to C$125.00 in a report on Wednesday, February 1st. Scotiabank upgraded Canadian Pacific Kansas City from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, March 15th. Stifel Nicolaus reduced their target price on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $78.00 to $75.00 in a report on Tuesday, April 18th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $85.00 to $90.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, February 1st. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Canadian Pacific Kansas City presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $89.40. About Canadian Pacific Kansas City (Get Rating) 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. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (NYSE:CP Get Rating) (TSE:CP). Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Pacific Kansas City and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS boosted its stake in shares of OGE Energy Corp. (NYSE:OGE Get Rating) by 14.1% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 407,950 shares of the utilities providers stock after buying an additional 50,350 shares during the quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS owned approximately 0.20% of OGE Energy worth $16,134,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in OGE Energy by 1.4% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 20,674,150 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $753,780,000 after buying an additional 294,759 shares during the period. State Street Corp lifted its stake in shares of OGE Energy by 1.5% in the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 7,122,492 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $259,686,000 after purchasing an additional 103,185 shares during the period. First Trust Advisors LP lifted its stake in shares of OGE Energy by 9.4% in the 4th quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 2,634,067 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $104,203,000 after purchasing an additional 225,356 shares during the period. CI Investments Inc. lifted its stake in shares of OGE Energy by 0.6% in the 4th quarter. CI Investments Inc. now owns 2,259,472 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $89,362,000 after purchasing an additional 13,846 shares during the period. Finally, Reaves W H & Co. Inc. lifted its stake in shares of OGE Energy by 2.3% in the 4th quarter. Reaves W H & Co. Inc. now owns 2,039,675 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $80,669,000 after purchasing an additional 46,831 shares during the period. 67.78% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get OGE Energy alerts: OGE Energy Stock Performance Shares of NYSE:OGE traded up $0.09 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $35.10. 198,985 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,100,333. The company has a market cap of $7.03 billion, a PE ratio of 16.59, a P/E/G ratio of 0.97 and a beta of 0.73. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $37.06 and a 200 day moving average of $38.03. OGE Energy Corp. has a 52-week low of $33.28 and a 52-week high of $42.91. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.91, a current ratio of 0.84 and a quick ratio of 0.64. OGE Energy Cuts Dividend OGE Energy ( NYSE:OGE Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The utilities provider reported $0.19 earnings per share (EPS) 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 company had revenue of $544.60 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $556.82 million. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.39 earnings per share. The firms revenue was down 7.6% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts predict that OGE Energy Corp. will post 2.01 EPS for the current year. The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 28th. Stockholders of record on Monday, July 10th will be paid a dividend of $0.414 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, July 7th. This represents a $1.66 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.72%. OGE Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 78.67%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth OGE has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. TheStreet downgraded OGE Energy from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research note on Monday, March 27th. UBS Group lowered 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 Tuesday, February 28th. StockNews.com started coverage on OGE Energy in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Mizuho decreased their target price on OGE Energy from $40.00 to $36.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, March 23rd. Finally, LADENBURG THALM/SH SH assumed coverage on OGE Energy in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. They issued a neutral rating and a $37.00 target price for the company. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, According to MarketBeat, OGE Energy presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $38.75. Insider Activity In related news, Director David L. Hauser acquired 1,000 shares of OGE Energy stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 14th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $35.09 per share, with a total value of $35,090.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now owns 3,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at $105,270. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link. Insiders own 0.42% of the companys stock. 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. Read More Receive News & Ratings for OGE Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for OGE Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Research analysts at The Goldman Sachs Group initiated coverage on shares of Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. (NYSE:TV Get Rating) in a report issued on Tuesday, The Fly reports. The firm set a buy rating on the stock. Several other analysts have also recently weighed in on the company. Citigroup started coverage on Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. in a report on Tuesday, February 14th. They issued a buy rating and a $8.50 price target on the stock. TheStreet cut Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. from a c- rating to a d+ rating in a report on Friday, February 24th. UBS Group cut Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. from a buy rating to a neutral rating and lowered their price target for the company from $8.80 to $6.00 in a report on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, StockNews.com cut Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Friday, May 12th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $9.00. Get Grupo Televisa S.A.B. alerts: Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. Price Performance TV traded up $0.07 during trading on Tuesday, reaching $4.77. 1,545,466 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,561,760. The companys 50-day moving average is $4.97 and its two-hundred day moving average is $5.18. The company has a market cap of $2.69 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -5.13, a P/E/G ratio of 4.70 and a beta of 1.42. The company has a quick ratio of 2.33, a current ratio of 2.38 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05. Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. has a 12-month low of $4.38 and a 12-month high of $10.39. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. ( NYSE:TV Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, February 24th. The company reported ($1.27) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.05) by ($1.22). The company had revenue of $972.28 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $961.43 million. Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. had a negative return on equity of 7.77% and a negative net margin of 13.77%. Research analysts forecast that Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. will post 0.14 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. grew its position in shares of Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. by 681.6% in the 1st quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 5,565 shares of the companys stock worth $25,000 after buying an additional 4,853 shares during the last quarter. Quantbot Technologies LP bought a new stake in shares of Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $25,000. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. by 5,105.3% in the 4th quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 10,827 shares of the companys stock worth $49,000 after buying an additional 10,619 shares during the last quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC grew its position in shares of Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. by 771.6% in the 3rd quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 9,779 shares of the companys stock worth $53,000 after buying an additional 8,657 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Ethic Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $54,000. 56.61% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Grupo Televisa, S.A.B. Company Profile (Get Rating) Grupo Televisa SAB engages in the provision of media products and services. It operates through the following segments: Content, Sky, Cable, and Other Businesses. The Content segment includes advertising, network subscription revenue and licensing and syndication. The Sky segment includes direct-to-home satellite television system. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Grupo Televisa S.A.B. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Grupo Televisa S.A.B. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cred is in a spot with respect to its growth strategy. The average value of a UPI transaction on the platform has dropped to a third and its share of the credit card bill payment market has shrunk. An indicator that its core business of facilitating credit card bill payments for the rich may be struggling. The average value of a transaction on Cred through the Unified Payment Interface (UPI) dropped to Rs 4,529 in April from Rs 13,300 in January 2022, according to data on the website of the National Payments Corporation of India, which owns the platform. Additionally, the total value of UPI transactions on Cred increased 46 percent, mostly due to growth in the merchant scan-and-pay facility that the company started late last year. The data suggests that an increasing percentage of growth in UPI transactions on Cred during the past six months were possibly not credit card bill payments, but small merchant transactions carried out on its new scan-and-pay service. More than 95 percent of credit card bill payments on Cred are made through UPI and that has remained more or less the same over the past couple of years, according to multiple sources within and outside the company. With credit card spending in the country having grown 48 percent over the past 16 months, the drop in Creds average transaction and a lower growth in value of transactions on UPI also suggests that its customers are either leaving or using the app less frequently. Cred disputed the numbers and added that the publicly available data does not reflect the growth the platform has managed in the last year or so. The company said that its customers use multiple payment methods including debit cards and netbanking for paying credit card bills. However, the company declined to share the information on how much credit card bill payments were settled using UPI or other payment methods. But official data from the last couple of years show that debit cards and net banking payments are seeing a gradual decline, making it unlikely that these payments may have gone up on Cred. To be sure, the decline in market share of credit card bill payments in itself is not a reflection of the overall revenue growth or monetisation on the platform. But Creds central premise seems to have undergone a shift, from a credit card bill payments app for creditworthy users to an app that is increasingly an aggregator of credit cards. The number of credit cards disbursed in the past 16 months grew 22 percent to 85 million in April from about 70 million in January 2022, according to Reserve Bank of India data. Credit card spending climbed to Rs 1.3 lakh crore in April from Rs 88,000 crore in January 2022. Cred has around 11million customers on the platform as of now. The company added that its user engagement has doubled in last one year. The total value of UPI transactions on Cred increased 46 percent over the past 16 months lower than the growth in credit card spending even after accounting for the fact that most of the growth in value did not come from credit card bill payments. Shift in strategy? Cred, which offered rewards to customers who paid their credit card bills on its platform, has always stated that its focus is on the top 3 percent of the countrys rich population. However, its marketing campaigns during the just-concluded Indian Premier League and the rollout of Rs 5 cashbacks on its merchant UPI transactions suggest otherwise. When it started and even now the company claimed it wanted to go deeper with its rich customer profile, but its UPI transaction value and volume numbers indicate that it may only have been trying to acquire less-desirable customers. The company bet heavily on UPI, which has grown but has not made any serious market share gains. After introducing the scan-and-pay facility at merchants late last year, it rolled out money transfers to contacts over UPI two months ago. Cred said that even its premium customers use UPI and they wanted Creds trust and privacy features on UPI, which prompted the company to launch the scan and pay as well as peer to peer UPI payments. Cred rides UPI wave While the number of UPI transactions on Cred almost doubled in the six months since November, a large part came from its recently introduced features. However, even though volumes doubled, Creds market share by UPI transaction value declined marginally, probably because of low-ticket scan-and-pay merchant transactions. About 84 percent of merchant transactions are less than Rs 500 in value and more than half of them are below Rs 200. Its not clear whether other payment apps gained at Creds expense. Popular UPI apps such as PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm, Mobikwik and Amazon Pay also have the credit card bill payment feature on their apps. Before these UPI apps started, bank apps were the most preferred way to settle credit card bills and even today, most card bills are settled within bank websites and apps or through standing instructions. Today, about one-third of credit card bill payments are made through these popular UPI apps. About 13 percent of the countrys credit card bill payments happen through Cred, according to bankers. The only reason rich people would share card details with a deep data platform like Cred is because the rewards are big enough. As rewards decline, the interest will go down. If the value of the rewards declines, you will attract value seekers and that does not look good for an app like Cred, said the head of a private sector banks digital division. Cred founder Kunal Shah has always maintained that it targets only premium customers. However, the recent numbers suggest otherwise, unless it is shifting its strategy to chase growth. However, Cred maintained that its credit score threshold remains at 750 for people to be onboarded on the platform as well the average credit score of customers on the platform is also much higher than the threshold. This the company said that is an indication that the users on the platform continue to be premium customers. Creds UPI conundrum Almost 75 percent of retail digital payments are made through UPI and this will potentially rise to 90 percent in the next two to three years, according to a PwC report released this week. It is hard to ignore a platform that is as dominant as UPI, even for the top 3 percent of the population who use credit cards for large purchases. However, as the value of credit card reward points shrinks, the propensity of customers to use cards more often is getting lower. The rise of co-branded credit cards also means that an increasingly large proportion of spending on credit cards is becoming platform-specific. An Amazon Pay ICICI Bank card is used mostly on Amazon. For most small payments outside the platform, customers could likely use UPI. Credit card bill payments in itself would not generate revenue for Cred. It is mostly a reason for Cred to attract premium customers. However, Cred coins, which users accumulate on the app for paying these credit card bills, has often come in for trenchant criticism on social media for the lack of value. Cred users also point to the disconnect in offering miniscule cashbacks for UPI payments to a presumably rich cohort of users. It makes sense for Cred to target a larger pie of UPI payments when many transactions are moving towards the platform. For instance, Apple does not accept card payments in India and prefers UPI. However, even Paytm, Amazon Pay and WhatsApp have failed to shake the dominance of PhonePe and Google Pay, which have a market share of 47 percent and 35 percent, respectively. And these top two companies have grown their market share in the past 16 months. This does not mean that Cred is going after customers with lower credit scores, but a segment of the population that is not as high spending as its initial set of customers. Loan portfolio Last year, Cred found a profitable revenue growth path. Its lending division under Cred Cash has been disbursing about Rs 2,000 crore worth of loans every month. While this has grown over the last few months, Moneycontrol could not ascertain the current numbers. Regardless of whether Creds customer base is not expanding or if customers are leaving the platform, customer loyalty is important for the company to keep expanding its lending portfolio. Cred is said to be looking at buy now pay later (BNPL) loans under its Flash product to accelerate lending growth. While Cred Cash has disbursed loans above Rs 50,000 to customers with higher credit scores, BNPL could be targeted at customers with lower credit scores or with limited credit history seeking much smaller loans. But this market is crowded with smaller fintech companies targeting the segment. ET reported earlier this week that Cred could target such customers through its acquisition of CreditVidya, a loan underwriting platform. While Cred has raised almost $800 million and still has a lot of cash reserves in the bank, the company may have to soon realign its growth expectations and marketing. Note: This copy has been updated to reflect Creds responses after Moneycontrol published the story earlier today. About 40-50 foreign direct investment (FDI)proposals from countries sharing land border with India under the provisions of Press Note 3 are pending for approval with the government, official sources said. Under Press Note 3, the government has made its prior approval mandatory for foreign investments from countries that share land border with India. These countries are China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar and Afghanistan. As per that decision, FDI proposals from these countries need government approval for investments in India in any sector. "About 40-50 proposals are pending with the commerce and industry ministry as they require security and political clearances," one of the sources said. Sources added that there is no consideration at present to ease norms under this press note. "FDI is not totally banned from these countries. It is just that they (investors from these countries) have to follow the government approval route and of course that takes times," a source said. The government has a commitment to clear these proposals in three months time, but it takes about seven months. As per industry sources, MG Motor, a British brand owned by China's largest automaker SAIC Motor Corp, has been awaiting government approval for around two years now to raise funds from its parent. MG Motor India recently said it plans to offer a majority stake to local partners and investors over the next 2-4 years as it looks to raise around Rs 5,000 crore capital to fund next round of its growth in the country. The automaker has been looking to raise capital for sometime now to fund its expansion. With little success so far, it has now started looking for other options to raise the required capital. Total FDI flows into India, which include equity inflows, reinvested earnings and other capital, declined 16 per cent to USD 70.97 billion in last fiscal year as against USD 84.83 billion in 2021-22 due to lower inflows in important sectors such as automobiles, computer hardware and software. Press Note 3 was introduced in April 2020 as the government wanted to curb opportunistic takeovers of domestic firms following the COVID-19 pandemic. An inter-ministerial committee has been formed by the government to scrutinise these proposals. All administrative ministries and departments have been advised to have dedicated FDI cells to process these proposals expeditiously. India received USD 2.5 billion FDI equity from China during period April 2000 to March 2023. During the period, India received USD 0.076 million investments from Bangladesh, USD 3.31 million from Nepal, USD 9 million from Myanmar and USD 2.57 million from Afghanistan. Economy Twitter was all praises for the Modi government as India's gross domestic product for the financial year 2022-2023 broke estimates. According to the NSO data released on May 31, India's economy grew by 6.1 percent in the January-March quarter, pushing the annual growth rate to 7.2 percent on account of better performance by agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and construction sectors. The growth has propelled the Indian Economy to $3.3 trillion and set the stage for achieving a $5 trillion target in the next few years. In the previous 2021-22 fiscal, the economy grew by 9.1 percent. Meanwhile, China has registered an economic growth of 4.5 percent in the first three months of 2023. Commenting on the GDP growth, several users highlighted India's resilience amid global woes and geopolitical tensions arising from Ukraine war. Projecting that Nifty will become Sensex in next 10 years, Gurmeet Chadha, CIO & Managing Partner, Complete Circle Wealth tweeted, "FY23 GDP growth China 3%, US 2.1%,Germany 1.9%, UK 4.1%, INDIA 7.2%. Nifty will become Sensex in next 10 years. Think long term !" FY23 GDP growth China 3% US 2.1% Germany 1.9% UK 4.1% INDIA 7.2% Nifty will become Sensex in next 10 years. Think long term ! Gurmeet Chadha (@connectgurmeet) May 31, 2023 Investor D.Muthukrishnan hailed PM Modi for the GDP growth overshoot. Fiscal deficit well within estimates. GDP growth overshooting estimates. Kudos @narendramodi @nsitharaman D.Muthukrishnan (@dmuthuk) May 31, 2023 Moreover, author, investor and economist Harsh Madhusudan posted a thread highlighting that the better-than-expected GDP growth will make India touch or cross $5 trillion by early 2025. "India is going to grow much faster than expected, especially at market exchange rates," he added. With Indias latest FY/Q GDP numbers coming better than expected, let me reiterate that India FY25 almost touching or crossing $5T at early 2025 exchange rates has at least an even probability. India is going to grow much faster than expected, especially at market exchange rates. Harsh Madhusudan (@harshmadhusudan) May 31, 2023 Terming India as 'bright spot' in the global economy scenario, head of IT cell of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) tweeted, "At 7.2% GDP growth rate for FY 2022-23, India is now the fastest growing major economy in the world and is rightly being called a Bright Spot." As per latest NSO figures, released on 31st May 2023, Indias GDP growth for FY 2022-23 is 7.2%. The growth for Q4-FY 2023 is 6.1%. At 7.2% GDP growth rate for FY 2022-23, India is now the fastest growing major economy in the world and is rightly being called a Bright Spot. pic.twitter.com/wlhaJ8cu5a Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) May 31, 2023 On quarterly basis, India's economic expansion was recorded at 6.1 percent during the March 2023 quarter, while it was 4.5 percent in October-December and 6.2 percent in July-September 2022. The growth was 13.1 percent in April-June 2022, as per the data released by the National Statistical Office (NSO). However, economists are holding on to their growth forecasts for FY24 despite a better-than-expected outturn in FY23. Most expect growth to be lower than RBI's projection of 6.5 percent for this fiscal year. Bengaluru-based Embassy Group has clocked a revenue of Rs 1,370 crore for its residential business, up 210 percent annually, in FY23, the company said in a regulatory filing. For FY23, the company sold about 1.07 million square feet of housing space, boosted by an uptick in the sales of luxury housing and a growing preference towards ready-to-move-in projects. Currently, apartments at the Embassy Groups projects start at Rs 2 crore. For the same financial year, the average price realisation was Rs 11,615 per square foot. "The revenue growth is a clear indicator of positive homebuyer sentiment and an increased preference for luxury projects in Bengaluru, the third top-performing luxury housing market in India after Mumbai and NCR," said Reeza Sebastian Karimpanal, executive president, residential business, Embassy Group. Aditya Virwani, COO of Embassy Group, added that the company is currently engaged in ongoing negotiations for joint ventures, joint development agreements and low-capex acquisitions to further strengthen the project pipeline across cities. "We are optimistic that significant revenue generation will enable growth and debt reduction, leading to an augmentation in growth potential," he said. The company plans to launch at least four new residential projects in FY24, with a development potential of 5 million square feet and an expected gross revenue of over Rs 3,000 crore. Bengalurus contribution to total luxury housing sales has doubled from the previous years 5 percent to 10 percent in 2022. When it comes to the luxury market in Bengaluru, growth has been visible in North Bengaluru, home to global investments and luxury lifestyles. USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept The live blog session has concluded. For more news, views and updates, stay tuned with Moneycontrol.com. USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Shares of Coal India (CIL) opened higher on May 31 after the company raised the prices of its high-grade coal by 8 percent in the first hike since 2018. The stock, however, quickly erased the gains and traded at Rs 241.35, down 1.23 percent at 9:20am. This (price hike) is expected to offset almost 50 percent of higher wage bill, following the mutual agreement between Coal India and four central trade unions under NCWA-XI. The price hike affects around 30 percent of the volumes, said Motilal Oswal Financial Services. CIL hopes to earn a revenue of Rs 2,703 crore in the rest of the financial year 2023-24 and all add-ons would be as per the extant practice, it said. The domestic brokerage firm has increased its revenue estimates for CIL by 2 percent to factor in the incremental revenues due to the price hike. Catch up on all LIVE stock market updates here CIL is trading at an EV/EBITDA of 3.9 times FY24. Motilal Oswal Financial Services has reiterated its buy call on the stock with a revised target price of Rs 290, and believes CIL is well placed to capitalise on the growth opportunity ahead. Moneycontrol was first to report on May 11 that CIL is likely to increase coal prices due to its plan of increasing the wages for its non-executive staff. On May 23, CIL said it has reached an agreement with its 2.38-lakh-strong non-executive workers over the revision of wages. Under the agreement reached, a 19 percent minimum guaranteed benefit from July 1, 2021, on emoluments (basic, VDA, SDA and attendance bonus) and a 25 percent increase in allowances have been granted. The wage revision added an additional liability of nearly Rs 6,000 crore on the CIL. Wages of non-executive workers, who account for 94 per cent of CILs workforce, are revised every five years. After a doji candle formation in the last session, which indicates indecisiveness, the benchmark indices saw selling on May 31, which some traders said was on the expected lines. The Nifty 50 index traded down 92 points or 0.5 percent at 18,541 as of 10.50am. The Bank Nifty index also slipped 0.81 percent to 44,075. Option data shows that call writers were dominant during the day with maximum activity at the 18,600 level in weekly options. Hurdles are also being created at 18,550 levels. Traders have pointed out that the current sluggishness in the Nifty Index is expected even if the all-time high level gets taken out which should happen in this monthly series itself. The Nifty Index saw an addition of 18,700 puts for the June-end expiry. This is an in-the-money put option signalling that the bullishness is very much intact for the June series, said Rahul Ghose, a Mumbai-based algo trader. Some traders expect the market to position itself for any reaction to the GDP growth data that will be released later in the day. Among individual stocks, traders were seen taking long positions in Torrent Pharma and Dixon Technologies. Other pharma names such as Aurobindo Pharma and Sun Pharma also saw open interest addition along with price increase a bullish sign. Energy names such as Coal India and ONGC saw short buildup, while Vedanta futures continued to trade at a discount to spot prices to compensate for dividend payment. 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. When clients don't pay on time or at all for products, and the outstanding dues keep accumulating, what can a listed company do to protect its share price? Perhaps they can learn a 'lesson' from a structure allegedly devised by an edtech company. On May 30, the market regulator fined and banned directors of Educomp Solutions (ESL) for three to five years from the securities market for various violations, including misleading investors with inflated revenue and profit figures. Also read: 'Something's cooking': Sebi's Buch signals bitter pill for unregistered investment advisors coming soon According to the Sebi order, ESL had devised a complex mechanism that hid pending payments amounting to hundreds of crores. This involved showing a subsidiary as a client and manipulating the balance sheet by utilizing loans taken by the subsidiary. In FY10, ESL sold its Smart-Class business contracts to Edu Smart Services Pvt Ltd. (ESSPL), which was presented as an unrelated third-party company. ESSPL, established a few months prior to this transaction with a paid-up equity share capital of Rs 1 lakh, purchased the contracts for Rs 1,234 crore. ESSPL then sold the product to schools and was supposed to collect payments through twenty quarterly installments over a period of five years or sixty months. These payments were for hardware, content licenses, and support services. As per Sebi investigators, ESL would bill ESSPL for 70 percent of the agreement value for hardware and content. The issue arose when the schools did not make timely or regular payments, resulting in mounting trade receivables in ESSPL's books. To address this, ESSPL converted these trade receivables into bank loans, with ESL allegedly providing a guarantee for these loans. ESSPL then allegedly used these loans to pay ESLs bills. To simplify, Company A that wasnt getting paid on time or at all by its clients found a way to hide that problem by putting a third-party Company B (which was later declared a subsidiary) in the middle. Educomps directors, Shantanu Prakash and Jagdish Prakash in their replies to Sebi said that all acts including transfer of business and execution of corporate guarantee for loans granted to ESSPL were undertaken in accordance with the law, in compliance with the provisions of the Companies Act then in force and after taking necessary approvals from shareholders. Beginning of the end Sebi investigators too point out that ESLs arrangement began to fail after the amendment to Companies Act in 2013. Following the amendment, ESL had to declare ESSPL as a subsidiary and then ESSPLs losses began to show in ESLs books. Net profit of ESL in 2010, 2011 and 2012 were Rs 282 crore, Rs 342 crore and Rs 137 crore. But from 2013, it started posting losses. In FY13, it posted a loss of Rs 143 crore and it kept rising; in FY17, it posted a net loss of Rs 782 crore. ESLs books also started showing a steep rise in the provisions on trade receivable and write-offs after FY23, according to the Sebi order. Provisions as a percentage of sales was 2 percent in FY13, it went up to 19 percent in FY14 and a whopping 125 percent in FY15. The sharp rise in provisions can be attributed to ESL acknowledging that ESSPL was a subsidiary of ESL and disclosing it in its books consequent to the 2013 Act coming into effect (April 01, 2014), and also because of the fact that the lenders of ESL had taken ESL to CDR, stated the Sebi order. CDR is for Corporate Debt Restructuring. Also read: Sebi puts in place guidelines for Investor Protection Fund, Investor Services Fund The companys share price plunged in parallel. The Sebi order noted, ESLs shares reached their peak price of Rs. 985.57 on NSE on October 01, 2009. However, the price of the scrip progressively declined and was trading at around Rs. 30 in April 2014, by which time ESSPL had been declared as a subsidiary of ESL. This downward trend continued in the subsequent years, and since June 2017 the share price of ESL has been in single digits. The scrip is currently trading at Rs. 2 (as on May 29, 2023 on NSE). The market regulator has cautioned India Infrastructure Fund II, its manager Global Infrastructure Partners India and IDBI Trusteeship Services for violating Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) Regulations and the AIF Code of Conduct. The infra fund was found to have pledged securities of portfolio companies to provide collateral for loan taken by other portfolio companies. As a category I fund, it isnt allowed to borrow or take leverage except for operational expenses. The order from Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has said that the fund had violated the regulations by doing indirect borrowing as a promoter/majority shareholder of the portfolio companies. It also disagreed with the Noticees argument that the investors were made aware of the funds strategy through the Trust Deed, the Contribution Agreement and private placement memorandum, and the order stated that these cannot override AIF Regulations. Also read: Sebi cancels Karvy Stock Broking's registration It directed the noticees to modify the terms of the Trust Deed that are inconsistent with the Regulations and submit the new Deed to Sebi within 30 days of the order. Separation of fund? The fund, the manager and the trustee had contended that the borrowing had not been done by the fund but by the portfolio companies. Therefore, they had not violated Regulation 16 (I) (c) of AIF Regulations. According to them, the fund and the portfolio companies are distinct and separate entities. But the market regulator did not agree. In case, AIFs are permitted to engage in borrowing or leveraging against pledge or charge or hypothecation of assets of Funds or in any manner such as enabling portfolio companies to obtain loan then this may expose investors of AIF to probable financial risk in case the portfolio companies default on repayment of their loan/debt, the Sebi order stated. Interestingly, the order stated that the fund acted as a promoter or majority shareholder in the portfolio companies, and therefore engaged in indirect borrowing through this arrangement. AIF-I Fund is prohibited from borrowing directly or indirectly. In pursuance of its declared portfolio strategy/ investment mandate, the Noticee No.1 acquired meaningful stake in portfolio companies and thus acted as the promoter/majority shareholder of such companies. The Noticee No.1 pledged securities held by it in portfolio companies for loans availed of by the portfolio companies. In my view, pledging of securities of companies by an AIF, holding meaningful stakes in such companies, for loans availed of by such companies fall within meaning of indirect borrowing, the Sebi order stated. The Indian equity market snapped a four-day winning run and ended lower on May 31 amid selling across the sectors barring IT, realty, and pharma. At close, the Sensex was down 346.89 points or 0.55% at 62,622.24, and the Nifty was down 99.40 points or 0.53% at 18,534.40. On the back of weak global cues, the domestic indices opened on a negative note and extended the losses as the day progressed, dragging Nifty below 18,500. However, buying in realty, healthcare, and information technology shares trimmed some intraday losses. The statistics ministry will release Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data for January-March and the first provisional estimate for 2022-23 GDP later today. Stocks and Sectors ONGC, Reliance Industries, Axis Bank, SBI, and HDFC were among biggest losers on the Nifty, while gainers included Bharti Airtel, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Britannia Industries, Sun Pharma, and SBI Life Insurance. Except Information Technology, realty, and healthcare all other sectoral indices ended in the red. The BSE midcap and smallcap indices rose 0.5 percent each. A long build-up was seen in Torrent Pharma, Dixon Technologies and PI Industries, while a short build-up was seen in ONGC, NTPC and SBI Cards. Among individual stocks, a volume spike of more than 500 percent was seen in Torrent Pharma, PI Industries and Indus Towers. Bharti Airtel, Indian Oil Corporation, Arvind, Godrej Consumer Products, Jindal Saw, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank were among the stocks that touched their 52-week high on the BSE. Outlook for June 1 Jatin Gedia, Technical Research Analyst, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas: The Nifty opened on a weak note and traded with a negative bias throughout the day ultimately closing the day down ~100 points. On the daily charts, we can observe that the Nifty has filled the gap area 18500 18580 formed on 29th May and held on to that support zone. We believe that the Nifty is in the process of retesting the breakout it provided last week from the zone of 18000 18400. The hourly momentum indicator has reached the equilibrium line indicating that the consolidation may have matured, and it can start a new cycle on the upside. Overall, we continue to maintain our positive outlook on the index for a target of 18800 from a short-term perspective. In terms of levels, 18460 18400 shall act as the crucial support zone while the hurdle zone is placed at 18660 18700. Shrikant Chouhan, Head of Equity Research (Retail), Kotak Securities Profit-taking was overdue for sometime and investors offloaded their holdings in metals, realty and energy stocks on the back of weak Asian and European market cues. Traders also decided to keep a low profile ahead of the likely decision on the US debt agreement over raising the debt ceiling, as the outcome would provide some hint to the markets over the near-term direction. Technically, on daily charts the Nifty has formed a reversal formation which is largely negative. However, after an intraday sell off the index took support near 18480 and bounced back sharply. As long as the market is holding 18480, the positive sentiment is likely to continue and above the same, the market could move up till 18600-18650. On the flip side, a fresh sell off is likely only after the dismissal of 18480. Below which, the index could slip till 18400-18375. Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by 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 market snapped a four-day winning streak on May 31, with the benchmark indices falling half a percent tracking correction in the global counterparts. The selling pressure was seen in banking & financial services, oil & gas, and metal stocks. The BSE Sensex fell 347 points to 62,622, while the Nifty50 declined 99 points to 18,534 and formed bearish candlestick pattern with long lower shadow on the daily charts, indicating buying interest at lower levels. The broader markets outperformed frontline indices as the Nifty Midcap 100 index was up 0.4 percent and Smallcap 100 index gained 1 percent. Hence, the overall sentiment remained bullish with the Nifty50 defending 18,500 mark. "Going ahead, with key global data points lined up and indicators in the overbought zone, some consolidation may occur within the key indices. However, the approach should remain positive, considering any further dips as buying opportunities," said Rajesh Bhosale, Technical Analyst at Angel One. From a level perspective, he feels the zone of 18,450 18,400 is a strong support area, while the immediate resistance is expected in the range of 18,650 18,730 levels. Traders should keep an eye on these levels and trade accordingly for the weekly expiry session, he advised. We have collated 15 data points to help you spot profitable trades: Note: The open interest (OI) and volume data of stocks in this article are the aggregates of three-month data and not just the current month. Key support, resistance levels on Nifty As per pivot charts, the Nifty may get support at 18,495, followed by 18,466 and 18,421. If the index advances, 18,587 would be the key resistance level to watch out for followed by 18,615 and 18,661. Nifty Bank The Bank Nifty was also under pressure, but showed some recovery in last hour of trade due to buying interest in Kotak Mahindra Bank on MSCI rebalancing news. The index dropped 308 points to 44,128 and formed bearish candlestick pattern with long lower shadow on the daily scale. "Bank Nifty has to continue to hold above 44,144 levels, to make an up move towards 44,500, while on the downside support is expected at 43,850, then 43,600 levels," said Shivangi Sarda, Senior Executive | Analyst at Motilal Oswal Financial Services. As per the pivot point calculator, the Bank Nifty is expected to take support at 43,899, followed by 43,777 and 43,580. The key resistance level to watch out for would be 44,294, followed by 44,416, and 44,613. Call options data On the weekly options front, the maximum Call open interest (OI) was at 18,600 strike, with 1.32 crore contracts, which is expected to be a crucial resistance level for the Nifty. This was followed by 18,700 strike comprising 1.24 crore contracts and 19,000 strike with more than 1.035 crore contracts. The meaningful Call writing was seen at 18,600 strike, which added 60.96 lakh contracts, followed by 18,500 strike, which added 56.42 lakh contracts, and 19,500 strike, which added 42.48 lakh contracts. The meaningful Call unwinding was at 19,100 strike, which shed 7.31 lakh contracts, followed by 18,300 strike, which shed 4.82 lakh contracts, and 18,400 strike, which shed 3.69 lakh contracts. Put option data On the Put side, the maximum open interest was at 18,500 strike, with 1.09 crore contracts, which is expected to be an important support level in the coming sessions. This was followed by the 18,300 strike, comprising 1.01 crore contracts, and the 18,000 strike with 86.85 lakh contracts. We have seen Put writing at 18,500 strike, which added 23.96 lakh contracts, followed by 17,800 strike, which added 3.81 lakh contracts. Put unwinding was seen at 18,600 strike, which shed 39.25 lakh contracts, followed by 17,500 strike, which shed 15.62 lakh contracts, and 18,700 strike which shed 13.97 lakh contracts. Stocks with high delivery percentage A high delivery percentage suggests that investors are showing interest in the stock. The highest delivery was seen in Petronet LNG, HDFC Life Insurance Company, Dabur India, HDFC, and Colgate Palmolive among others. 49 stocks see a long build-up An increase in open interest (OI) and price typically indicates a build-up of long positions. Based on the OI percentage, 49 stocks, including Torrent Pharmaceuticals, Kotak Mahindra Bank, ABB India, Bharti Airtel, and Syngene International, saw long build-ups. 34 stocks see long unwinding A decline in OI and price generally indicates a long unwinding. Based on the OI percentage, 34 stocks, including Shree Cements, Ramco Cements, Mphasis, Oberoi Realty, and Bajaj Finance, saw a long unwinding. 50 stocks see a short build-up An increase in OI along with a price decrease indicates a build-up of short positions. Based on the OI percentage, 50 stocks, including Indus Towers, Hindustan Aeronautics, Polycab India, Maruti Suzuki India, and Reliance Industries saw a short build-up. 56 stocks see short-covering A decrease in OI along with a price increase is an indication of short-covering. Based on the OI percentage, 56 stocks were on the short-covering list. These included Balkrishna Industries, Divis Laboratories, Dabur India, Nestle India, and Britannia Industries. Bulk deals Max Healthcare Institute: Government of Singapore has bought additional 66.6 lakh shares in the company via open market transactions at an average price of Rs 549.53 per share, amounting to Rs 366 crore. However, BNP Paribas Arbitrage have net sold 90.33 lakh shares in the company at an average price of Rs 546.56 per share, amounting to Rs 492.6 crore, and UBS Principal Capital Asia sold 75.43 lakh shares in Max Healthcare at an average price of Rs 548.03 per share, amounting to Rs 413.42 crore. Sona BLW Precision Forgings: Societe Generale has bought additional 81.97 lakh shares in the auto ancillary company at an average price of Rs 503 per share, amounting to Rs 412.34 crore shares, and Government of Singapore purchased additional 36.43 crore shares at an average price of Rs 540.44 per share. However, promoter entity Aureus Investment sold 1.9 crore shares or 3.24 percent stake in Sona BLW at an average price of Rs 503.73 per share, and BNP Paribas Arbitrage sold 96.84 lakh shares at an average price of Rs 541.61 per share, amounting to Rs 524.5 crore. BNP Paribas Arbitrage held 73.91 lakh shares or 1.26 percent stake in Sona BLW, Societe Generale has 60.85 lakh shares or 1.04 percent stake, and Government of Singapore held 3.13 crore shares or 5.35 percent stake in the company as of March 2023. (For more bulk deals, click here) Investors Meetings on June 1 Hikal, Polycab India, Sagar Cements, Gujarat Fluorochemicals, Prism Johnson, Cummins India, Jindal Stainless, Info Edge, Birlasoft: Companies' officials will participate in B&K Securities Trinity India - Institutional Investor Conference. Siyaram Silk Mills: Officials of the company will interact with the analysts / investors. The Phoenix Mills: Company's officials will meet Fullerton Fund Management. Sonata Software: Officials of the company will interact with Nine Rivers Capital Holdings, and White Oak Capital Management Consultants LLP. Safari Industries (India): Company's officials will interact with Bay Capital. Stocks in the news Coal India: The Government of India, the promoter, will be selling 9.24 crore equity shares or 1.5 percent stake in the country's largest coal mining company on June 1 and June 2. It also has an option to additionally sell another 9.24 crore shares in the company, in case the oversubscription option is exercised. The offer for sale issue will open on June 1 for non-retail investors and retail investors can participate in the offer on June 2. The floor price of the offer has been fixed at Rs 225 per share, which is at a 6.7 percent discount to Wednesday's closing price of Rs 241. South Indian Bank: The bank said its board of directors approved the panel of candidates for the position of the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of the bank. The bank will be submitting its application to Reserve Bank of India with the names of the candidates, seeking approval for the appointment of the new MD & CEO. Gati: Pirojshaw Aspi Sarkari has resigned as Chief Executive Officer of logistics company Gati, with effect from May 31. The company has appointed Pirojshaw Aspi Sarkari as MD & CEO of its subsidiary Gati-Kintetsu Express (GKEPL), with immediate effect, in the place of Adarsh Sudhakar Hegde, who stepped down from the said position of Chairman & Managing Director with immediate effect. Goldstone Technologies: GTL is partnering with Quantron AG, a German e-mobility major, to establish a joint venture to address the high potential fleet management market. The fleet management market is valued at around $70 billion or Rs 5.8 lakh crore by 2032. By focusing on zero-emission transport, the JV aims to offer OEM-agnostic mobility as a service (MaaS) solutions, addressing efficiency and digitalization challenges. Laurus Labs: The pharma company has signed definitive agreements to acquire additional stake of 7.24 percent in Immunoadoptive Cell Therapy (lmmunoACT), an advanced cell and gene therapy company, for Rs 80 crore. Post the deal, Laurus Labs stake in ImmunoACT will increase to 33.86 percent. Rainbow Children's Medicare: R Gowrisankar has resigned as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the healthcare company due to personal reasons with effect from May 31. The company has appointed Vikas Maheshwari as CFO of the company with effect from June 1. MOIL: The miniratna state-owned manganese ore mining company has increased prices for some of manganese ore grades (BGF452, CHF473 and GMF569) by 10 percent, with effect from June 1. The company has maintained the prices of ferro grade, SMGR, fines and chemical grades, and also electrolytic manganese dioxide price for June. Fund Flow FII and DII data Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) bought shares worth Rs 3,405.90 crore, whereas domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 2,528.52 crore on May 31, provisional data from the National Stock Exchange shows. Stocks under F&O ban on NSE The National Stock Exchange has not added any stock to its F&O ban list for June 1. Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by experts on Moneycontrol are their own and not those of the website or its management. Moneycontrol advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. Disclaimer: MoneyControl is a part of the Network18 group. Network18 is controlled by Independent Media Trust, of which Reliance Industries is the sole beneficiary. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) kept the policy repo rate unchanged in April, but you need to watch whether the pause continues or the central bank raises the rate. The announcement will impact you if you have an existing loan or plan to take one. Also, you need to know about the revised locker agreement and new rules for mutual fund investments in minors names. You also need to pay the first advance tax instalment -- and more. So, what are those changes in June 2023 that will hit your wallet? RBI monetary policy: will pause continue or the rate be raised? The RBIs second monetary policy announcement in the financial year 2023-24 is due on June 8. Borrowers heaved a sigh of relief when RBI decided to keep its policy repo rate unchanged at 6.5 percent in the first bi-monthly monetary policy review of FY 24. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of RBI paused on rates in April 2023, contrary to industry expectations, terming the move temporary and retaining its withdrawal of accommodation stance, taking into account the turmoil caused by a banking crisis in the US and Europe and contagion risks. You need to watch out whether the pause continues or there is a rate hike in the June MPC meeting. If there is another rate hike, banks will once again increase interest on home loans and other loans linked to the repo rate as an external benchmark in line with the terms of loan agreements. Sign revised locker agreements State Bank of India (SBI), Bank of Baroda, and a few other banks are urging customers who maintain lockers at their branches to sign revised locker agreements by June 30, 2023. Soon, all banks are likely to follow suit. In January 2023, RBI had extended the deadline for banks to complete the process of renewal in a phased manner by December 31, 2023. The first milestone of renewal of 50 percent of the agreements is due on June 30, 2023. There are important things you must keep in mind while renewing the locker agreement, as explained here. New rules for MF investments in minors' names done by parents Under a new rule introduced by the capital markets regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), that will come into force on June 15, investments in mutual funds will be accepted from the bank account of the minor, parent or legal guardian of the minor, or a joint account of the minor with a parent or legal guardian. Earlier, banking norms insisted on routing the money through a bank account held in the name of the child. It has been observed that the absence of a bank account in the name of the child is an obstacle to investing money in the name of the child. ALSO READ: SEBI nudges AMFI to form ethics committee to catch bad apples in time For existing mutual fund folios, the fund houses will have to insist on a change of pay-out bank mandate before redemption is processed. Further, all redemption proceeds will have to be credited only in the verified bank account of the minor, i.e. the account the minor may hold with the parent/ legal guardian after completing all Know Your Customer formalities. SEBI seeks comments on consultation paper on deterrence of insider trading at MFs SEBI has proposed setting up surveillance and internal control systems to catch frauds like front running and insider trading. At the minimum, SEBI has said that such a system should be able to catch front-running, insider trading, mis-selling of products, misuse of information by an Asset Management Company (AMC), its employees, distributors, brokers, dealers and so on and delay in execution of orders by brokers and dealers. Originally the feedback to be submitted by June 3, SEBI has now pushed the deadline to June 8. SEBI invites views on proposals to overhaul expense ratio mechanism The regulator recently came out with a proposal wherein it suggested that a schemes Total Expense Ratio (TER) must include costs such as brokerage, Goods and Services Tax (GST), Securities and Transaction Tax (STT), and incentives paid for getting investments from so-called B-30 cities. The present TER structure keeps these expenses over and above the base expense ratio. SEBI has also proposed a regulatory sandbox around performance based fee for mutual funds. Mutual fund houses can charge a higher TER if they outperform the benchmark. Such an arrangement has not been hitherto available in the Indian mutual fund industry. The regulator has suggested that either the fund house will charge a higher TER and pay back the excess over base TER if the scheme underperforms, or the fund house charges base TER and more if the scheme outperforms at the time of redemption by the investor. Originally the feedback to be submitted by June 1, SEBI has now pushed the deadline to June 8. ALSO READ: Do you exhaust your credit card limit often? Your credit score could come under pressure June 15 is the deadline for the first advance tax instalment If you are a salaried individual and think the Advance Tax provision is not applicable to you, youre wrong. Advance tax liability may arise for a person having a salary as the primary source of income, but also having earning from other sources such as interest from deposits, rental income, capital gains and so on. So, you need to assess your advance tax liability. According to section 208 of the income-tax Act 1961, every person whose estimated tax liability for the financial year is Rs 10,000 or more, after taking into consideration tax deducted and collected at source (TDS and TCS), is required to pay advance tax. Taxpayers are required to pay their annual estimated advance tax liability in four instalments. On or before June 15, the taxpayer needs to pay 15 percent of the advance tax. If you miss advance tax payments or delay them, there is penal interest on the taxes due, under section 234C, at the rate of 1 percent per month / part of the month. Apply for higher pension on actual salary by June 26 The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) extended the deadline for choosing the higher pension option from May 3 to June 26. Employees who were members of EPFO and Employees Pension Scheme (EPS), prior to September 1, 2014, and who continue to be in service but missed availing the higher pension option earlier are eligible to apply. Those who retired before this date and had signed up for the higher pension option will have to validate the information. You will have to take a call on whether you want to file a joint application - with your employer - to claim higher pension on your actual salary or not. You will have to complete this process by June 26 through the online facility provided on the EPFOs member portal. Currently, your employer deducts 12 percent of your basic salary as your Employees Provident Fund (EPF) contribution. The organisation also contributes an equal amount to create your retirement kitty. A part of it (8.33 percent) is directed to the EPS while the balance flows into your provident fund. However, it is calculated on the statutory wage ceiling of Rs 15,000. So, at present, out of your employers contribution, Rs 1,250 (8.33 percent of Rs 15,000) goes towards EPS. This amount joins the pool created under EPS to pay regular pension income to member-employees with at least 10 years service and their dependent family members. You can, however, now choose to direct 8.33 percent of your actual salary towards the pension pool, translating potentially into higher pension post-retirement, thanks to the Supreme Court verdict in November 2022. Additionally, 1.16 percent from your employers contribution will also be funnelled into EPS, with the balance 2.51 percent flowing into your EPF. You will have to exercise this choice by June 26. If you spot errors in your application, you can delete the application and file it again. However, you cannot do so if your employer has already validated the application. Next, the EPFO officers will evaluate and approve your application to pay the way for a higher pension. Several grey areas around the process and final pension formula persist, making it difficult for employees to exercise their choice. ALSO READ: Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: So far, so good. But can it do an encore? Lounge access list changed for Axis Bank credit cardholders Axis Bank credit cardholders get complimentary lounge access at different airports in India. However, there is a limit on the number of complimentary lounge access according to variants of cards. The bank has revised its airport lounge access program for its credit cardholders, effective from June 1, 2023 and its valid till August 31, 2025. Check the details on the lounge access on your credit card from the bank website or inquire with the customer service. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund (PPFCP), which recently completed 10 years of existence, is among the biggest equity schemes in India with assets under management (AUM) of over Rs 33,500 crore. It has been a fairy-tale ride for the mutual fund (MF) scheme, which started with an AUM of just around Rs 150 crore. PPFAS Mutual Fund, which also turned 10 as the flexi cap fund was their first offering, started off as a stock broking house in the early 1990s. Parag Parikh, who passed away in 2015, had founded it. PPFCP has been a major hit among investors as the schemes assets have ballooned from around Rs 3,000 crore in March 2020. Data shows that it is the best-performing fund in its category over a five-year period. While the fund has benefited immensely from its true-to-label approach and allocation to US equities in the past, experts highlight key challenges that the scheme might face after becoming large in asset size and the restrictions on overseas investments. We delve deeper. A strong pedigree Starting off as Parag Parikh Long-Term Value Fund, the scheme has seen name changes to long-term equity fund and then finally to PPFCP because of regulatory changes during its course. But one thing that hasnt changed is the fund management style. Rajeev Thakkar, Chief Investment Officer (CIO) and Director of PPFAS Asset Management Company, recently told Moneycontrol that they have always followed the Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger style of investing. The value investing approach we have is buying quality companies at a reasonable price. The other value approach is buying very, very cheap companies, low PE or low price-to-sales companies, he said in an interview. Also read | Our job is to create wealthy investors, not run after them: Parag Parikh AMC The investment decision at the fund house has been influenced by Parag Parikhs approach towards behavioural finance. Mutual fund distributor Shiney Sebastian, who joined Parag Parikh group when it launched the Portfolio Management Service (PMS) in 1994, attributed the funds success to its management style. Parag bhais focus on stock research, stress on quality, love for value investing and use of behavioural finance has helped him immensely. This is something that he has been able to successfully pass on to this team. This has driven their success over the years, said Sebastian, Managing Director at Affluenz Financial Services. A stable portfolio mix PPFAS has been among the earliest funds to take exposure to US equities in a big way. While others started launching products around it later, we have been doing that since 2010, said Neil Parikh, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), PPFAS Mutual Fund. Data from Ace MF showed that PPFCP, during its existence, had an average 25 percent exposure towards overseas equities, with the highest level of around 33 percent during May 2020. They always wanted to be more concentrated with 25-30 stocks and a blend of international exposure. What has worked for them is, no doubt, the allocation towards US stock markets, which was a unique proposition when they started it. Also, the timing helped them because the US stock markets had done very well till the beginning of 2022, said Harshad Chetanwala, Co-founder, MyWealthGrowth.com. Also see | The complete MC30 basket of mutual fund schemes Another aspect that has worked in the schemes favour is sticking with its conviction. While most fund managers like to churn their portfolios, PPFCPs investment approach has largely been to Buy and Hold. Data shows the portfolio turnover ratio (excluding equity arbitrage) of the scheme was just 3.99 percent for the month of April. This means that the fund replaced around 4 percent of the companies it held in the last year, which is considerably low among all equity schemes. Notably, the scheme has been holding Axis Bank and ICRA since its inception. It has held ICICI Bank since May 2014 and Ipca Laboratories since November 2014. There are a couple of things that have worked in the schemes favour. One is discipline, and the other is consistently remaining true to their label, said Deepak Chhabria, CEO, Axiom Financial Services. Emerging challenges While the fund has been the favourite of financial advisors, certain challenges are seen emerging for the scheme. Also read | 'Somethings cooking': SEBI chief's bitter pill for unregistered investment advisors coming soon When the US markets started correcting from early 2022 onwards, the fund passed through a tough time. Further, the fund was unable to benefit from the beaten-down valuations and deploy further funds to that market because of regulatory restrictions. In February 2022, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) asked mutual funds investing in overseas securities to stop further investments in foreign stocks to avoid a breach of industry-wide overseas limits imposed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Consequently, the overseas exposure of the fund has fallen to around 17.2 percent in April, with additional money going to domestic stocks. At Rs 33,000 crore, if you can't deploy a lot of money in US stocks, it will definitely be a problem from the allocation perspective. Second, the fund is highly focussed on value investing, which can make it underperform the market for a long time. Since the fund is popular and a lot of money is coming into it, deploying funds will be a challenge because you cannot invest more than 10 percent in a particular stock. Hence, deploying in the concentrated bets where they are happy making allocation, will always be a problem, said Kirtan Shah, Founder of Credence Wealth Advisors LLP. Also read | The right way to get the first credit card and build a credit history Another challenge that experts see the fund facing is its large size. PPFCP is among the 10 biggest equity funds in India and the second-largest in the flexi-cap category. The challenge is going to be visible when for some reason the performance slows down and coincides with a market slowdown or consolidation. It will be interesting to see how the fund handles the redemptions then. Large funds also cant really be nimble-footed and they may have a little more cash holding, which can impact short-term returns. Also, large funds tend to be more large-cap biased because of the market liquidity. Sustaining the outperformance may be a challenge till overseas investing limits are relaxed, said Chhabria. Trust the management Despite the challenges, the scheme continues to be a favourite with investment advisors. I am very positive about the management and their value system. The values that the late Parag Parikh incepted long back are clearly seen in his son (Neil Parikh) and the organisation. Also, Rajeev Thakkar follows the same methodology. Going forward, we can expect the same consistency in their philosophy and framework which has led to their success, said Rushabh Desai, Founder, Rupee With Rushabh Investment Services. Also read | Got your first job? Now heres where you should put your money Experts also believe that the large size of the fund shouldnt be a concern due to the growing Indian market size and more opportunities arising in the mid-cap and small-cap spaces. I'm quite confident that the fund manager and the management team are capable of handling the challenges, and being a big fund should not pose a challenge to them. Even managing a scheme with assets worth Rs 50,000-60,000 crore should not be a problem, as the market cap of Indian stocks is also going up and liquidity is improving, said Chhabria. (Dhuraivel Gunasekaran contributed to the story) The Cabinet on May 31 approved the launch of City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and Sustain 2.0 for four years with a budget of Rs 1,866 crore, Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur told reporters. CITIIS is a part of the governments Smart Cities Mission. CITIIS 2.0 aims to leverage and scale up the learnings of CITIIS 1.0, which was launched jointly in 2018 by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, French aid agency AFD, the European Union and the Delhi-based National Institute of Urban Affairs, with a total outlay of Rs 933 crore. The programme envisages supporting competitively selected projects promoting a circular economy with a focus on integrated waste management at the city level, climate-oriented reform actions at the state level, and institutional strengthening and knowledge dissemination at the national level, Thakur told reporters. Its aim is to develop projects focused on building climate resilience, adaptation and mitigation, he said. The funding for CITIIS 2.0 would include a loan of 200 million euros or Rs 1,760 crore with AFD and German development bank KfW contributing 100 million euros each, and a technical assistance grant of 12 million euros or Rs 106 crore from the EU, Thakur said. The three components of CITIIS 2.0 include financial and technical support for developing projects focused on building climate resilience, adaptation and mitigation in up to 18 smart cities. All states and Union territories will be eligible for support on demand basis. The states will be provided support to (a) set-up/strengthen their existing climate centres/climate cells/ equivalents; (b) create state- and city-level climate data observatories; (c) facilitate climate-data-driven planning, and develop climate action plans; and (d) build capacities of municipal functionaries. To achieve these objectives, the PMU or programme management unit at NIUA will coordinate the provision of technical assistance and strategic support to state governments. The third component includes interventions at all three levels, the Centre, state and city, to further climate governance in urban India through institutional strengthening, knowledge dissemination, partnerships, building capacity, research and development to support the scaling up of capabilities across all states and cities. CITIIS 2.0 will supplement the climate actions of the government through its ongoing National programmes (National Mission on Sustainable Habitat, AMRUT 2.0, Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 and Smart Cities Mission), as well as contributing positively to Indias Intended Nationally Determined Contributions and Conference of the Parties (COP26) commitments. Responding to reports of the Indian government planning to deny crucial funding for Anil Agarwal's chip venture Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar has said that there is no communication from Govt that we are not pursuing Vedanta's 28nm fab proposal. Further, he also added that there is no rejection of any proposal at this stage. The first window for more expensive 28-nanometer fabrication plants was kept open for 45 days only in January 2022 and received three applications that were evaluated by India Semiconductor Mission and its Advisory group. The government's strategy now is to encourage mature nodes of more than 40 nanometers, Chandrasekhar said. For this, the current and new players may apply afresh in various nodes where they have the technology. There is an expectation that some of the current applicants will reapply and new fresh investors shall also apply. The government seeks to attract more big-ticket investments under a $10 billion incentive plan for chip and display production, aiming to make India a key player in the global supply chain. The government had earlier said that it will provide financial support for new semiconductor facilities to cover 50 percent of project costs and shall remove a ceiling for maximum permitted investment for display manufacturing. Last year, Anil Aggarwal announced Vedanta's ambitious plans to build 28 nanometer chips in India in a partnership with Hon Hai, widely known as Foxconn. This will build Indias own Silicon Valley, Anil Aggarwal said USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Theres no denying that the unified payments interface (UPI) has emerged as the most preferred digital payment method for Indians. More importantly, with the rise in payments, UPI-related fraud cases have gone up. According to the finance ministry, more than 95,000 fraud cases of UPI transactions were recorded in the country in 2022-23, an increase from 77,000 cases in 2020-21, and 84,0000 cases in 2021-22. Several types of frauds take place on the UPI platform. Also, none of these are because of issues with the UPI itself but are modes of deception. Phishing scams Scammers can send you unauthorised payment links via SMS. These bogus bank URLs will look identical to the original URL. If you click on that link, it will take you to the UPI payment app installed on your phone and will ask you to choose any of the apps for auto-debit. Once, you give the nod, the amount will get debited from the UPI app immediately. Banks and government agencies and other financial institution never ask for financial information via SMS. In the case of a UPI fraud, bring it to the notice of the bank or e-wallet company and get the wallet blocked to prevent further losses. Request money Fraudsters send request money links to the customer. Once the customer clicks on the fake link and authorises the transaction thinking they'll get money, the amount gets deducted from their account. Never make transactions to any random website which is asking you to claim rewards, cashback or money by making test transactions. Money transfer by mistake Cyber criminals usually send some amount via UPI apps such as Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe and so on to their potential target and then call them saying it was a mistake. Following this, the fraudster shares a link with the target, asking them to use it to return the money. If you click on the link, you will lose control of your digital wallet and bank account, which then becomes accessible to the cyber criminal. QR codes Another new method being used by scammers is via QR codes. The scammer tells their target that the money will be sent using a QR code. When the code is scanned by the victim, he or she is asked to enter the UPI PIN. If the PIN is shared, the money, instead of being credited, is deducted from the users account a Delhi Police official told the Times of India. Change your UPI PIN It is always advisable to change your UPI pin every fortnight, if not so then UPI PIN reset on a monthly basis would be a good way to secure your account. Avoid sharing confidential details such as PIN, OTP and so on to keep your money safe. Banks have been warning customers never to share their OTPs and their bank account details with anyone over the phone or via SMS. Vistara will introduce a flight service between Agartala and Bengaluru on August 1, an official said on Wednesday. At present, Indigo and Akasa operate three flights on the Agartala-Bengaluru route, he said. "Vistara is scheduled to operate a flight on the Agartala-Bengaluru route from August 1. The flight will arrive here directly from Bengaluru, and on its return journey from Agartala, it will go via Guwahati. It will benefit flyers immensely," director of Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport KC Meena told PTI. Chief Minister Manik Saha had urged Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia for the introduction of more flights on the route. Meena said SpieceJet is ready to kickstart services between Agartala and Chittagong in Bangladesh but the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is yet to notify the immigration centre. "We are hoping to get all the relevant protocols cleared from the Centre by mid-June. Once the process is complete, international flight service will start at the earliest," he said. At present, four airlines operate 34-36 flights daily from the MBB Airport, which handles around 4,500 passengers per day. USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Customers are making a beeline for branches of public sector banks, especially State Bank of India (SBI), to exchange Rs 2,000 notes as private banks are either not accepting deposits of Rs 2,000 currency notes, or are placing limits beyond the Rs 20,000 that the Reserve Bank of India has stipulated as the amount one can deposit or exchange at a time. At an HDFC Bank branch near Panchsheel Park, New Delhi, for example, account holders were able to exchange currency for the full limit of Rs 20,000 but non-account holders faced a limit of Rs 10,000. This is being done to ensure account holders of our own bank are not at a disadvantage if they come late during the day and we run out of Rs 500 currency notes, a bank official told Moneycontrol. Maintaining data Those who did not have accounts in the bank were being handed over a form to fill out their details. This is being done to ensure we have some proof of those exchanging money with us. Customers already have their KYC (know your customer) details and so there is no issue, but we are taking ID proofs from all others. We need to maintain data in case it is asked for later, the bank official added. The RBI had given clear instructions in its policy stating that the exchange of the Rs 2,000 notes over the counter should be provided to the public in the usual manner as provided earlier without insisting on any request slip or ID proof, subject to the limit of Rs 20,000 at a time. We are encouraging our customers to deposit the money with us instead of exchanging it and later withdraw it from an ATM, the HDFC Bank official said. This has been the trend for all private sector banks, who have been discouraging exchanges and are instead insisting that customers deposit their money. Meanwhile, people were lining up at branches of SBI, given that the public sector bank is not demanding any information from people for the exchange. We have been standing in line for about an hour. This money was given to me after I worked as a daily wager last month. I do not have a bank account and have been waiting to get this exchanged, said Murli Ram, a daily wage worker from Badaun in Uttar Pradesh. He was waiting at SBIs Okhla branch. Most shops too have begun to refuse Rs 2,000 notes, a visit to several markets showed. A bakery in Connaught Place was found only accepting the Rs 2,000 currency if the bill came to or exceeded the amount. We were earlier accepting the notes but are now finding a currency crunch to give change. So we are only accepting the Rs 2,000 notes when someone is buying for the amount, the cashier said. According to him, the inflow of cash has definitely increased. The majority of our payments initially came online, via cards or UPI, but now people who have Rs 2,000 currency notes are preferring to pay in cash to get rid of them, he said. A small grocery shop in the outer circle of Connaught Place had completely stopped accepting the now withdrawn currency notes. No small shop owners are accepting this note, the prime reason being the values people shop for are generally much smaller and getting change is a challenge. Another reason is that we dont want to stand in long queues at banks to get rid of them, Dharampal Singh, owner of the shop, said. Petrol pumps have become another avenue for people to rid themselves of Rs 2,000 notes. However, petrol pumps are continuing to accept it without hassle. People are coming in to get petrol filled for Rs 200 and giving us Rs 2,000 notes. Since we do not have a crunch of other currency, we are accepting it, Akram Khan, a worker at a petrol pump in Connaught Place said. India has decided not to take the European Union (EU) to the appellate tribunal of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in the dispute over the import duty levied by India on a range of information and communication technology (ICT) goods, including mobile phones and its components, sources told Moneycontrol. The country aims to continue negotiations under the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) and has reassured the EU that the duties are not against it. The TTC is a key forum to deepen the strategic partnership on trade and technology between the two partners. The dispute In 2019, Taiwan, Japan and the EU filed a dispute challenging the import duty levied by India on a range of ICT goods including mobile phones and their components, among others. India levies an import duty between 7.5 percent and 20 percent on such goods. The EU had argued that these tariffs directly breached Indias obligations under WTO rules to impose zero-duty rates on these goods. The EU filed a case on the alleged violations, followed by similar cases against Indias tariffs filed by Japan and Taiwan the same year. We have already deferred the Taiwan case till September and have filed an appeal against Japan which has sent the case into void, the official said. There is no Appellate Body Division available at present to deal with the appeals. The tribunal has been inoperative for two years due to the US hindering the appointment of judges. Till the time the tribunal gets all members, all appeals are considered an 'appeal into the void. However, the EU is keen on India not filing an appeal against it and has been continuously talking to us about it, a commerce ministry official privy to negotiations told Moneycontrol. The China angle India, as per the official, has reassured the EU that the duties are not against them but against China. A dialogue is currently ongoing on this. We hope to find an amicable solution which works for both countries, the official added. The WTO's dispute panel on April 17 this year had said that India's import duties on some ICT goods breached global trade regulations. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a three-day visit to South Africa beginning Thursday to participate in a conclave of five-nation grouping BRICS in Capetown. From South Africa, he will travel to Namibia for a visit from June 4 to 6, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). "The external affairs minister will visit South Africa from June 1 to 3 to participate in the BRICS foreign ministers meeting being held in Capetown," the MEA said in a statement. The BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) brings together five of the largest developing countries of the world, representing 41 per cent of the global population, 24 per cent of the global GDP and 16 per cent of the global trade. Besides attending the BRICS meeting in Capetown, Jaishankar will also hold a bilateral meeting with his South African counterpart Naledi Pandor. He will call on the President of South Africa and is expected to hold bilateral meetings with other BRICS foreign ministers and participate in 'Friends of BRICS'. Jaishankar will also have an interaction with the Indian diaspora in Capetown, the MEA said. His visit to Namibia will be the first by an external affairs minister of India to the African nation. "During the visit the external affairs minister will call on the top leadership of the country and also meet with other ministers of the government," the MEA said. It said Jaishankar will also co-chair the inaugural session of the joint commission meeting with the Namibian deputy prime minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. He will also interact with the Indian diaspora based in Namibia. "The external affairs minister's visit to South Africa and Namibia is expected to further strengthen India's strong bilateral relations with these two countries," the MEA said. Applicants including Vedanta Foxconn JV are expected to re-apply for government incentives under the modified semiconductor scheme opening from June 1, according to reports. Under the Modified Semicon India Programme, the government is said to have increased the financial incentive of 50 percent of the project cost for companies, consortia, joint ventures for setting up semiconductor fabs in India of any node (wafer size). In the old scheme, the incentives varied on the basis of wafer node size. Similarly, a fiscal incentive of 50 percent of the project cost is available for setting up of display fabs of specified technologies in India. "Government has decided to invite new applications for setting up of Semiconductor Fabs and Display Fabs in India from June 01, 2023 under the Modified Semicon India Programme. The applications will be received by India Semiconductor Mission," the statement on May 31 said. Minister of State for Electronics and IT , Rajeev Chandrasekhar said the first window for more expensive 28 nanometer (nm) fabs was kept open for 45 days only in January 2022 and 3 applications were evaluated by India Semiconductor Mission and its advisory group. The application window for Modified Scheme for setting up of Compound Semiconductors, Silicon Photonics, Sensors Fab, Discrete Semiconductors Fab and Semiconductor ATMP, OSAT facilities in India is open till December 2024, the statement said. Leading storage semiconductor company Micron has reportedly also applied for setting up an OSAT unit. "Application window of Design Linked Incentive Scheme is also open till December 2024. Till date 26 applications have been received under DLI Scheme and five applications have been granted approval," the statement said. Semicon India Programme was approved by the cabinet in December 2021 with an outlay of Rs 76,000 crore for the development of semiconductors and display manufacturing ecosystem in India. Contrary to the expectation that the Indian government would grant relief to resident investors by repealing the angel tax provisions, the Finance Act, 2023, the government made these provisions applicable to non-resident investors. With a lot of grievances being voiced, the government has now created exemption buckets, which will help some foreign investors but not others. The question remains whether creating tax and regulatory complexities is the right way forward. Section 56(2)(viib) of the Income-tax Act, 1961, popularly known as the angel tax provision, applies when a company in which the public is not substantially interested (i.e., a private company or an unlisted public company) issues shares at a premium and receives consideration that is more than the fair market value (FMV) of the shares. The excess amount received is deemed as income from other sources in the hands of the company. Further, Rule 11UA of the Income-tax Rules, 1962, prescribes valuation methods to determine the FMV of assets, including shares of an unlisted company. For unlisted company shares, the FMV is determined based on the following two methods: the net asset value as reflected in the audited balance sheet of the company; or the discounted cash flow value as determined by a Category-I Merchant banker. Concerns of Overreach The extension of the applicability of angel tax to shares issued to a non-resident investor resulted in concerns of tax overreach being raised by legitimate, regulated non-resident investors. To address these issues, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) issued a notification on May 24 that lists various categories of persons who will not be covered under the amended angel tax provisions. Foreign government and government-related investors (i.e., sovereign funds), foreign banks or regulated entities involved in the insurance business, and Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) registered Category-I foreign portfolio investors, endowment funds, pension funds and broad-based pooled investment vehicles or funds with more than fifty investors (not being hedge funds or funds which employ diverse or complex trading strategies) were among those exempted. Further, residents operating and investing from regulated countries like Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Spain, Sweden, the UK, and the US were also not covered under the amended angel tax provision. Investors in start-up companies that fulfil the conditions specified by the Department for Promotion of Industries and Internal Trade and file a self-declaration to that effect were also exempted. Separately, the CBDT has issued draft valuation rules on May 26 prescribing additional valuation methods over and above the two methods mentioned above. It has been proposed that if consideration is received by an Indian private company from a company resident in any of the 21 countries mentioned in the annexure to the May 24 notification against issue of unquoted equity shares to such entity, the price of the equity shares corresponding to such consideration may be taken as the FMV of the equity shares for resident and non-resident investors subject to certain conditions. Further, a merchant bankers valuation certificate if it is of a date not more than ninety (90) days prior to the date of issue of unquoted equity shares which are the subject matter of valuation will be acceptable. In addition, a payout up to 10 percent above the merchant bankers valuation certificate will be accepted. Flexibility on Valuation The relaxation granted by the CBDT to various classes of investors and start-up companies is a welcome move. The proposed changes to the valuation rules, especially increasing the valuation methods, will provide more flexibility to investors and will enable parity in valuation under tax law and foreign exchange regulations (applicable to foreign investors) under which any internationally acceptable methodology can be used for valuation. However, historically, investments by venture capital funds in start-ups have been through compulsorily convertible preference shares. Therefore, unless the draft valuation rules are expanded to cover all types of instruments of unlisted companies, they will not serve a complete purpose. Given that India receives significant foreign direct investment from other regulated jurisdictions like Singapore, Mauritius, The Netherlands, Luxembourg, etc., it is unclear why such offshore jurisdictions have been kept out. Major venture capital firms are planning to approach the CBDT over the exclusion of Mauritius and Singapore, given that many of them are based in those jurisdictions. Pertinently, corporate entities have been kept out of the list making them potentially liable to angel tax. Several multinational companies have been sent notices by the tax authorities to explain the source and valuation of funds invested in their Indian subsidiaries, and it seems that such subsidiaries will have to spend a lot of time and effort in justifying the commercial pricing of a transaction even when no money laundering or black money is involved. Conceptually, angel tax seems somewhat flawed because it does not account for business exigencies and new financing techniques, especially in the venture capital and private equity space. Introduced in 2012 as an anti-abuse measure to prevent money laundering, it has wreaked havoc for many start-ups (and will now do the same to multinational companies). A better approach may be to let commerce and business operate freely but seek more information in a companys tax return on how premium has been calculated and whether it is market standard for such a company or business, considering international and Indian valuation standards. Training tax officers on valuation and merchant banking will also go a long way in reducing indiscriminate scrutiny. Ravi S Raghavan is Partner & Head of Tax, Majmudar & Partners. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. Talks for opposition unity against the Bharatiya Janata Party for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections have been going on for several months, but the momentum has picked up pace after the Karnataka verdict. The inauguration of the new Parliament which was boycotted by 19 opposition parties also provided an opportunity to them to try and establish a common platform against the BJP. While such talks for adjustments/alliances between various parties to discuss the need to oppose the BJP in 2024 is going on in different states, one state where opposition unity against BJP had already crystallised long back is Bihar. It is also well known that the one person who is trying very hard to bring opposition together against BJP is none other than Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar. Mahagathbandhan's 2015 Win While it is difficult to say to what extent Nitish Kumar may be successful in bringing opposition parties together against the BJP for the 2024 contest, the current RJD-JD (U)-Congress alliance has the potential of challenging the BJP in Bihar for the 2024 contest. The 2015 assembly election is an example, when the two parties won the election convincingly defeating the BJP/NDA, which seemed unbeatable if one went by the popular narrative then. But theres a question being asked: Is this alliance a real threat for the BJP for the 2024 Lok Sabha election in Bihar? There are contesting claims. When the mahagathbandhan defeated the BJP in 2015, the JD (U)-RJD-Congress alliance won 178 seats [JD(U) 71, RJD 80 and Congress 27] and polled 41.8 percent votes while the BJP Alliance won 58 seats (BJP 53, LJP 2, RLSP 2 and HAM 1) and polled 34.1 percent votes. But there is a counter narrative. A similar alliance of SP-BSP in UP before the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, looked formidable on paper, but could not stop the BJP march during the 2019 Lok Sabha election in UP. The SP-BSP combine won 15 seats (SP-5, BSP 10) and the duo together polled 37.2 percent while the BJP alone won 62 seats and polled 49.6 percent votes while its ally Apana Dal won 2 seats and polled 1.2 percent votes. The Primary Calculations One possible explanation which is also evident from various state assembly elections and the Lok Sabha election verdict in different states suggest that people vote for BJP in much bigger numbers during the Lok Sabha election compared to the assembly elections, mainly in the name of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Having seen the RJD-JD (U)-Congress alliance in place for so long without signs of cracks, the BJP must have made its plan of how to counter this alliance in Bihar. The alliance of RJD-JD (U) and Congress should help in consolidation of the votes of two dominant OBC castes the Yadavs (roughly 16 percent) and the Kurmis (about 3 percent) and sections of lowers OBC castes (26 percent). This alliance will ensure a massive polarisation of the Muslim vote (17 percent as per 2011 Census) in favour of it. This leaves BJP with the only option of mobilising one of the dominant OBC caste Koeris and sections of the lower OBC castes, Dalits and upper castes, which have always voted for the BJP irrespective of BJP losing or winning election, irrespective of whether it has an alliance with JD(U) or not. BJP Targets Caste Blocs Sensing this constraint of the limited sections/community of voters who can be mobilised, the BJP has started its outreach programme among the Koeri community in Bihar. The party has appointed a new state president Samrat Chaudhary who belongs to the Kushwaha (Koeri) caste. He was close to being projected as a CM candidate by the party workers at a rally held by him and Giriraj Singh. Amit Shah has also addressed a rally on the anniversary of emperor Ashoka, often projected as a Kushwaha icon in Bihar politics. The Kushwaha community has a vote share of about 4 percent in the state. The strategy adopted by the BJP is said to break into the Luv-Kush votebank of Nitish Kumar, which will ultimately weaken the newly formed alliance of RJD-JDU. BJP is also trying to woo Dalits, who are often seen at loggerheads with the Yadavs. Similarly, it is campaigning among the non-Yadav OBCs, playing on their fear of Yadav dominance in the reign of RJD. These fears shared by Dalit voters and non-Yadavs OBCs are being exploited by the BJP to widen its ambit in Bihar. BJP is fundamentally trying to replicate the UP model of non-Jatav, non-Yadav social engineering in Bihar. Amit Shah has constantly been visiting Bihar since the time alliance ended with the JD (U) and addressed several meetings. Shah also addressed a Kisan Madoor Samagam at Bapu Sabhagar in Patna in honour of Swami Sahjanand Saraswati, who was one of the top farmer leaders of the country. Through these meetings, the BJP is also trying to regain its hold on the Bhumihar community - Swami Sahjanand Saraswati is revered among the community. If these were not enough, the BJP has also appointed two of Shahs trusted lieutenants in key organisational roles in Bihar. Sunil Ojha, a two-time MLA from Gujarat was recently made the co-in charge of Bihar BJP. Another crucial actor who comes from Gujarat is Bhikhubhai Dalsaniya. Both these leaders are said to be in close touch with the duo of Amit Shah and PM Modi. But will BJPs strategy of mobilisation, strengthening organisational structure, and hoping to closely manage party affairs through leaders from Gujarat posted in Bihar pay dividends? Sanjay Kumar is a Professor at Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS). He is also a Political Analyst. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication. Mutual funds are less than enthusiastic about buying Additional Tier 1 (AT1) bonds issued by banks, says a report in the Economic Times. The share of AT1 bonds in mutual fund assets have come down to 0.45 percent from 2.53 percent in 2020, when the writing off of Yes Banks AT1 bonds soured investor appetite for this category of bonds. Litigation is pending in the Supreme Court on the validity of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)-backed decision to wipe out the AT1 bonds even as equity was retained intact. The way to induce better investor interest in these vital instruments is to improve banking supervision and regulation, and remove concerns over valuation norms, without giving in to the populist demand to treat AT1 bonds as regular debt with superior rights over equity. The Indian development mirrors the sentiment in Europe, after the Swiss banking regulators wiped out the entirety of AT1 bonds of troubled Credit Suisse before its shotgun marriage to rival UBS. In the immediate aftermath, UBSs AT1 bonds saw their yield spike to 16 percent, but the yield has come down to 12 percent now, which is still way too high. But the picture is different in Japan, where the appetite for AT1 bonds seems robust. Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Japan's leading bank, will issue 330 billion yen ($2.3 billion) in AT1 bonds, roughly triple the amount considered earlier, reports Reuters, in response to growing investor demand. The yield is expected to offer 1.65-1.66 percent spread over Japanese government bonds. Unpalatable Conditions In India, the cited reason for investor aversion to AT1 bonds is Sebis new valuation norm for these instruments, apart from the banking regulators support for giving equity superior rights over AT1 bonds when it comes to tiding over a banking collapse. Sebi wants AT1 bonds to be valued like 100-year bonds, whereas, earlier, valuation was benchmarked against call options on the bonds. There does not appear to be any compelling reason to abandon this former benchmarking practice, and returning to the practice would be a pragmatic step towards reviving interest in AT1 offerings. AT1 bonds form a capital buffer that is intended to absorb loss in case the bank stumbles. In other words, AT1 bonds are, in principle, insurance-linked securities, rather than regular debt. These are best considered as close cousins to Catastrophe bonds or Cat bonds for the financial sector. Cat bonds are typically sponsored by an insurance company or a re-insurance company to transfer the risk of having to make a payout against a disaster, on which insurance has been sold, to larger society via bonds that offer a yield superior to what the market offers. These bonds would be held in a Special Purpose Vehicle that would invest the proceeds in low-risk fixed-income instruments such as government bonds, and also receive a premium payment from the sponsor, which builds the premium to the market yield that the Cat bond pays out. In case the disaster, against which insurance has been sold, does occur, the principal and interest payments of the bonds could be deferred or written off in full or in part, protecting the sponsor. For the investor in the bonds, the instrument is a high-risk but high-reward fixed-income option that has the advantage of not being linked to business cycles and worth the deployment of a tiny slice of an investment corpus that is diversified across sectors to minimise risk and maximise returns. Insulation Against Insolvency AT1 bonds are intended to absorb the loss the bank makes, offering insulation against insolvency. These are not meant to supplement the funds at the disposal of the bank for generating revenue. At the time of issuance, it is made clear that the bonds could be written off in full or in part in case of distress, and it is to compensate for this risk that the bond offers superior yields. Investors cannot grab that premium yield and cry foul when the risk that underlies the interest premium does materialise. Creating an AT1 capital buffer is a mandatory requirement for banks. But if investors baulk at buying AT1 bonds, what is the solution? You could induce greater risk-taking by offering ever higher yields, or you could lower the risk premium by means of superior management, underwritten by better banking supervision. India has an advantage over the rest of the world when it comes to financial data. The Account Aggregator framework operationalises the consent layer of financial transactions enabled via the India Stack of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) created to enable diverse use of Aadhaar, the unique identity issued to all residents. Thanks to this, it is possible for accountants and the bank supervisor to access real-time financial transactions of the bank, provided the bank gives its consent. With such data at hand, bank supervision becomes far simpler. For example, the circular lending that enabled fund diversion while evergreening a bunch of loans issued among a group of lending institutions, which formed the basis of the IL&FS fiasco of 2018, could have been caught early on, provided the auditors/supervisors had the needed analytics tools and skills. The way to make AT1 bonds attractive again is to provide clarity as to their insurance-linked role that sets them apart from pure debt, revert to valuation as per the time period of call options, and vastly improve banking supervision via enhanced management of banking data. It is not a sensible option either to give in to populist pressure to treat AT1 bonds as pure debt or to pay ever-rising risk premia on these bonds. TK Arun is a senior journalist. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. In the chaos accompanying large-scale violence since May 3 in Manipur, lives have been lost, homes burnt, and livelihoods disrupted. The very thought of having to rebuild from scratch, of having lost all earthly possessions, and of having to live in relief camps is unfathomable, unless one has walked that thorny path. Theres a sort of insane rage out there that has suspended peoples sense of reasoning and their humanity. The hard stances adopted by the parties in conflict make it well-nigh impossible to think of rapprochement at this juncture. Owing to fresh bouts of violence, curfew hours have been extended instead of being gradually lessened. The violence that started on May 3, has officially claimed over a hundred lives (the real numbers are yet unknown and will perhaps never be known) and displaced over 45,000 people of both the Kuki-Zomi communities and the Meiteis. What one sees unfolding in Manipur is a total collapse of law and order a state subject. More worryingly, the question of collusion also comes up. This is especially so, given the looting of weapons from the state policy, as had happened on May 3, the day the rioting broke out, when some extremist groups from the Valley the Arambai Tengol and Meitei Leepun unleashed violence in the Imphal valley burning homes of Kuki tribals and looting weapons from no less than the armoury of the Manipur Police Training College and eight other police stations. A Bodo-Like Arrangement For Manipur That ten MLAs representing the Kuki people have written to the Union Home Minister seeking a separate administrative arrangement is posing a challenge to the Centre. In sum, they want nothing less than a self-governance model along the lines of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India which grants to tribes the right to govern themselves and to develop the areas under their control in a nuanced way which might not be possible under a government where a non-tribal majority is in control. A very robust form of the Sixth Schedule is seen in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) with extensive powers to develop the hitherto neglected human resource of the areas and create institutions that would address the educational and developmental backlog and also ensure that people dont feel the sense of neglect that leads to dystopia and pushes them to take up arms against the state. Rising unemployment in every state of the Northeast and the inability of those elected to govern effectively, to think outside the box and create situations where investments can flow in, and helping the youth to be gainfully employed outside the government sector, remain a persisting problem in the region. The large youth demographic can be a source of discontent if it works like a misguided missile. Challenges Of Multi-Ethnic States And states with multi-ethnic populations need people with statesmanship qualities to be at the helm. Chief Ministers cannot be seen to represent one or other communities. They should represent the entire population of the state and rise above their ethnic biases. To play the ethnic card in governance is a dangerous trend because it creates a crisis of confidence in the governed. This is further aggravated by the easy availability of arms from across the porous borders of this region. There are vested interests that take advantage of this youth power and that makes it a dangerous cocktail. The much-delayed visit of Home Minister Amit Shah to the troubled districts of Manipur has raised faint hopes that the violence might gradually abate. But will the violence abate unless some contentious issues are addressed? What happens after Amit Shahs return to the safety of the national capital? Will people forget the violence and the intrinsic differences that have driven a wedge between the communities in conflict? It is said that any conflict has to first be managed before it can be resolved. A Win-Win Solution The parties in conflict need to go away from the table each believing they have won their case. This win-win situation is what Amit Shah has to programme. Can he do it? This demand for self- governance should not be construed as a demand for a separate homeland and a vivisection of Manipur. Lets face some facts. Most institutions of governance from universities to medical colleges to state and central government establishments are all located in Imphal valley. Let the tribes also create similar institutions under a new local self-governing arrangement and be held accountable by their people. Thats the sole, just solution. There have been enough failed experiments with Article 371(C) where the state government has never allowed the Hill Areas Council to function as per their stated mandate. This Article is past its date. The only salve for the tribals is to get busy with administering their hills but with the supervision of the Governor who is to send regular reports to the President of India. The district councils should be adequately funded by the Centre as is happening with the BTR. That should quell the dissonance among the hill tribes. Patricia Mukhim is Editor, The Shillong Times, and author of the book "Waiting for an Equal World". Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. The ruling BJP can be defeated if the Opposition is "aligned properly" and the Congress party is working towards it and it is "coming along very nicely", Rahul Gandhi has told Indian Americans here, citing his party's emphatic victory in the recent assembly elections in Karnataka. Responding to questions from the moderator and the audiences at an event at the Silicon Valley Campus of the University of California in Santa Cruz on Tuesday, Gandhi said he can clearly see "vulnerabilities" in the BJP. "As a political entrepreneur, I can clearly see vulnerabilities in the BJP... The BJP can be defeated if the Opposition is aligned properly," he said. "If you look at the Karnataka elections, the general sense is that the Congress Party fought the BJP and defeated the BJP. But what is not well understood is the mechanics that we used," he said. The Congress party used a completely different approach to fighting an election and building a narrative, Gandhi said, adding that elements of what happened in Karnataka came out of the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra'. In the May 10 elections to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly, the Congress won 135 seats, while incumbent BJP and the former prime minister H D Deve Gowda-led Janata Dal (Secular) got 66 and 19, respectively. Gandhi said in the Karnataka elections, the BJP spent 10 times more money than the Congress party. He said the country needed an alternative vision to defeat the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in addition to having a united Opposition in the 2024 general elections. "On the matter of opposition unity, we are working towards it and it is coming along very nicely. But I think in order to defeat the BJP, you need more than just opposition unity. Just opposition unity, in my opinion, is not going to be enough to do the job. I think you need an alternative vision to the BJP," he said. "Part of Bharat Jodo Yatra was the first step in proposing such a vision. It's the vision that all opposition parties are aligned with. No opposition party would disagree with the idea of the Bharat Jodo Yatra," he said. Bharat Jodo Yatra (Unite India March) was a Gandhi-led mass movement aimed at uniting India. The yatra began on September 7 from Kanyakumari, passed through 12 states and culminated in Jammu and Kashmir on January 31. During the course of the yatra, Gandhi, 52, addressed 12 public meetings, over 100 corner meetings and 13 press conferences. He had over 275 planned walking interactions and more than 100 sitting interactions. "So, I think bringing the opposition together is important, but also aligning the opposition and making the people of India understand that there is not just a group of opposition parties that have combined but a proposed way forward for the country. And we're working on those things," Gandhi said. The ex-Wayanad MP said it is the president of the Congress party who will decide the prime ministerial candidate. "We believe that everybody in India, regardless of who they are, whichever part of the society they come from, they should have a voice that voice should be respected, to be listened to be appreciated. And I think that voice is an asset," he said. In his address, Gandhi also took a dig at the ruling BJP government, saying it is "threatening" the people and "misusing" the country's agencies. "The BJP is threatening people and misusing government agencies. The Bharat Jodo Yatra started because all the instruments that we needed to connect with the people were controlled by the BJP-RSS," he said. "We were also finding that in some way, it had become quite difficult to act politically. And that's why we decided to walk from the southernmost tip of India to Srinagar," he said. Gandhi said the yatra carried the spirit of affection, respect and humility. "If one studies history, it can be seen that all spiritual leaders including Guru Nanak Dev ji, Guru Basavanna ji, Narayana Guru ji united the nation in a similar way," he said. Gandhi said India is not what is being shown in the media which likes to promote a political narrative that is far from reality, asserting that there is a "huge distortion". "It was very clear to me in the Yatra that it's in the media's interest to project these things, it helps the BJP. So, don't think that everything you see in the media is the truth," he said. "India is not what the media shows. The media likes to show a particular narrative. It likes to promote a political narrative that is actually not what is going on in India," he said. The Congress leader arrived here on Tuesday on a three-city US tour during which he will interact with the Indian diaspora and meet American lawmakers. He had a first-hand experience of the American immigration system as he had to wait for about two hours along with his other co-passengers on the Air India flight because of the common shortage of staff at the US airports. People were seen taking selfies with him and asking him questions. He was seen interacting and mingling with other travellers at the San Francisco airport. Last week, Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda said Gandhi's visit is aimed at promoting shared values and a vision of "real democracy". "The purpose of his (Gandhi's) trip is to connect, interact and begin a new conversation with various individuals, institutions and media, including the Indian diaspora that is growing in numbers in the United States and abroad to promote the shared values and vision of the real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over," Pitroda said in a statement. (With PTI inputs) Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will meet his Tamil Nadu and Jharkhand counterparts to drum up support in opposing the central ordinance on control over administrative services in the national capital. "Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (June 1) to seek DMK's support against Centre's unconstitutional-undemocratic 'Anti-Delhi' Ordinance," he tweeted on Wednesday. "Day after tomorrow, on June 2, I will meet Jharkand Chief Minister Hemant Soren in Ranchi. Will seek his support against the ordinance promulgated by Modi government against the people of Delhi," he said in another tweet. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo has been reaching out to leaders of non-BJP parties to garner support against the ordinance so that the Centre's bid to replace it through a bill is defeated when it is brought in Parliament. The Centre had on May 19 promulgated the ordinance to create an authority for the transfer and posting of Group-A officers in Delhi, which the AAP government had called a deception with the Supreme Court verdict on control of services. The ordinance came a week after the apex court handed over the control of services in Delhi, excluding police, public order and land, to the elected government. It seeks to set up a National Capital Civil Service Authority for the transfer of and disciplinary proceedings against Group-A officers from the DANICS cadre. The Centre will have to bring a bill in Parliament to replace the ordinance within six months of its promulgation. Transfer and postings of all officers of the Delhi government were under the executive control of the lieutenant governor before the top court's May 11 verdict. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief leader Uddhav Thackeray, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have so far extended their support to the AAP. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar as well as his deputy Tejaswi Yadav and RJD leader have also supported Kejriwal in the matter. The AAP national convenor has requested for time to meet Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi to seek their support against the ordinance. A 15-year-old autistic boy was denied boarding in a SriLankan Airlines flight at the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru after it was suspected he could pose a threat to fellow passengers and the pilots. The crew members of the aircraft kept following the child after which the mother complained with the airline and the airport police. "Two male ground staffers of SriLankan Airlines came up to us and asked questions about our 15-year-old younger son, who is autistic and communicates using a mobile app. Shockingly, they began to say that he would be a threat to the pilots and fellow passengers on the plane if allowed to board. My son was hearing all this and stood scared holding our hands," the boy's mother told The Times of India. "It became very intimidating for my son and also us, with the two men following us all the way to the aircraft as if to catch something untoward," she added. The family was carrying the boy's unique disability ID (UDID) card issued by the Government of India. When they showed the card, the airlines asked for the certificate of the boy's treating doctor, which stated he could board flights. "I had to explain to them that autism is not a disease and there is no need for a doctor to treat him, let alone authenticate him to fly. He is a well-travelled boy and his last trip was to Dubai, and he has never been harassed over his condition," the mother said. The mother of the boy fought against the decision of the airlines and after a two-hour ordeal, he was allowed to board the flight. The family were on their way to a holiday to Maldives and reached the airport on May 16 to board the SriLankan Airlines flight UL 174 to Colombo en route to Male. The situation became worse when the mother, father, the boy and his sibling were still waiting to check-in their luggage for the flight, at around 12.30am on May 17. Also read: 'If you can't speak Kannada...': Dancer Salman Khan recalls Bengaluru Airport hassle in video Tickets for domestic air routes have seen a steady increase in price since tourism returned to normal after the pandemic. In recent days, the problem of rising air fares has been further exacerbated by Go First declaring bankruptcy and cancelling all flights, leaving many travellers without any option but to change their travel plans or cough up exorbitant amounts for last-minute tickets on other airlines. Several flyers have taken to social media to complain about the skyrocketing prices of flight tickets, and one among them is Shruti Chaturvedi, founder of media platform Chaaipani. Indignant about paying Rs 21,000 for a one-way ticket from Delhi to Ahmedabad on low-cost airline IndiGo, Chaturvedi tweeted: WTH is happening with flight ticket costs? Paid 21k for Delhi to Ahmedabad for Indigo??! Indigo ki audacity bhi hai itne maangne ki?? (How does Indigo even have the audacity to charge this much?) she added. WTH is happening with flight ticket costs? Paid 21k for delhi to ahmedabad ..for Indigo??! Indigo ki audacity bhi hai itne maangne ki?? Shruti Chaturvedi (@adhicutting) May 30, 2023 Several people agreed with Chaturvedi in the comments section and shared their own stories of paying exorbitant amounts for domestic airline tickets. One person wrote about Chennai-Bangalore sector costing Rs 43,000. A corner of weeks back, Chennai Bangalore was 43k one way Vaitheeswaran K (@vaitheek) May 30, 2023 Another blamed Go First cancellations for the high price. In April was getting ticket at 2300 ( Delhi - Ahmedabad ) And now suddenly after go first cancels all scheduled flights. Other airlines increased fares. Dilip Rangwani (@ItsRDil) May 31, 2023 Some even pointed out how international flights are available for less than what Chaturvedi paid to travel from Delhi to Ahmedabad. Behn , itna toh Sharjah to Goa one way bhi nahi hai jitna ki Ahmedabad to delhi hai And wasnt Indigo supposed to be a budget airline ?? pic.twitter.com/FYRaGnFLjo Raphael Brito (@GoanBoy001) May 30, 2023 Several airlines cater to the Delhi-Ahmedabad route besides IndiGo. These include Air India, Vistara, Akasa Air and SpiceJet all of them offer direct, non-stop flights between the national capital and Ahmedabad. While Chaturvedi had to pay Rs 21,000 for a flight between the two cities, a quick search shows tickets are available for as low as Rs 2,500 on this route if booked in advance. Delhi High Court on May 31 asked the Director General Of Civil Aviation (DGCA) as to why different responses were sent to aircraft repossession request of different lessors. According to the lessors, DGCA's website shows that the request of some of the Go First lessors has been rejected while the request of some of the lessors has been kept in abeyance. Anjana Gosain, the lawyer appearing for DGCA, reiterated to the court that no application for repossession has been processed as yet on account of the airline going into moratorium on May 10. Gosain further told the court that some applications are shown as rejected in its website over a technical glitch. She further told the court that DGCA had sent a communication on the status of the application to all the aircraft lessors who had made an application for repossession. The court has asked DGCA to explain this with relevant documents on June 1. The aircraft lessors are expected to respond to the arguments of DGCA and Interim Resolution Professional (IRP) tomorrow. The court may reserve the case for judgments since it is closing for summer vacations on June 2. On May 30, DGCA clarified that it has put on hold requests from lessors to repossess planes from Go First, as the carrier's bankruptcy process imposes a freeze on assets which supersedes such requests. Yesterday, the lawyers for Go First's IRP argued that the aircraft lessors initiated "parallel proceedings" despite a clear directive from the NCLAT to approach the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) regarding the status of aircraft leases terminated before the moratorium. The lawyers emphasized the interconnectedness of the insolvency proceedings and the proceedings before the Delhi High Court, asserting that any order issued by the High Court would directly impact the ongoing insolvency process. On May 26th, the aircraft lessors contended that the denial of deregistration by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) was "illegitimate." Their lawyers stated that they had approached the civil aviation regulator to request deregistration of their aircraft, but their pleas were rejected. On May 24th, the DGCA informed the court that the application by the aircraft lessors to repossess their aircraft had not been officially rejected. Instead, it was put on hold due to the ongoing moratorium. Aircraft lessors, including Pembroke Aviation, Accipiter Investments Aircraft 2 Ltd, EOS Aviation, and SMBC Aviation, filed a writ with the Delhi High Court, seeking directions to release the planes leased to the financially distressed airline. The writ requested the court to instruct the DGCA to deregister the aircraft currently leased to Go First. On May 22nd, the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) upheld the NCLT's order admitting Go First's plea for insolvency. The appellate tribunal directed the aircraft lessors to approach the NCLT with relevant applications to determine the possession of the aircraft. The lessors had challenged the NCLT's order, alleging that Go First was attempting to utilize the insolvency process to retain assets it did not own. On May 10, the principal bench of the NCLT in Delhi accepted Go First's voluntary plea to initiate an insolvency resolution process. The tribunal appointed an IRP, suspended the board, and imposed a moratorium on the airline's financial obligations. Nevin Shetty, the former chief financial officer (CFO) of a Seattle-based startup, pleaded not guilty to siphoning $35 million from the company to invest in a cryptocurrency venture. He was hired in March 2021 as CFO of a company called Fabric, which makes software platforms for retail commerce. The disgraced Indian-origin executive allegedly took $35 million of his employer's money without permission and lost it by investing in cryptocurrency before the crypto market crashed last year, according to a federal indictment. The investigation began after Fabric reported the alleged embezzlement to the US FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation). Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. The indictment alleged that Nevin Shetty, 39, secretly took Fabrics money and transferred it to HighTower Treasury, a crypto platform he controlled as a side business. This allegedly took place after he was sacked by the company over his job performance issues. Shetty created that side business in or around February 2022. He pleaded not guilty to all four charges of fraud, Seattle-based tech news website GeekWire reported. Released on an appearance bond, he was asked to surrender is passport. He also faces money management restrictions, the report said. Before joining Fabric, he was the CEO of another Seattle startup, Blueprint Registry. Since May 2022, fabric has been cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation of the companys former CFO Nevin Shettys conduct in the misuse of $35 million of fabric funds, Fabric had said in a statement to GeekWire last week. We are thankful for and appreciate the hard work that the FBI and US Attorneys Office have done in helping resolve this matter. While the amount taken is substantial, fabric remains very well-funded with years of runway. (With inputs from PTI) More than 10,000 passengers will now have to get their weights checked before boarding an Air New Zealand flight from Auckland International Airport. The "passenger weight survey" is set to run through July 2 and will provide data on the weight load and distribution for Air New Zealands international flights, CNN Travel reported. We weigh everything that goes on the aircraft from the cargo to the meals on board to the luggage in the hold, Alastair James, the airlines load control improvement specialist, told the publication. For customers, crew, and cabin bags, we use average weights, which we get from doing this survey." As per reports, travelers are asked to stand on a digital scale at check-in while their baggage is placed on a different scale. The data is submitted to the survey anonymously. The airline assured that participating in the survey is voluntary and discreet. We know stepping on the scales can be daunting, said James. We want to reassure our customers there is no visible display anywhere. No one can see your weight not even us. A statement from the airline added, The scales do not display the weight as this is fed directly into a computer and recorded anonymously along with thousands of other passengers. This will not delay flights and takes place before the gate to board your aircraft. This, however, is not the first time that Air New Zealand decided to weigh its flyers. In 2021, it ran a similar for domestic passengers but the international version of the survey was delayed by the Covid pandemic, Forbes reported. Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. expects to at least double revenue in the second half from the sale of servers intended for training and hosting AI services, joining the growing ranks of hardware suppliers riding growing global interest in artificial intelligence. The company posted NT$1.1 trillion ($35.8 billion) of revenue from its overall server business in 2022, Chairman Young Liu said at its annual shareholders meeting Wednesday. Hon Hai, the listed vehicle of Foxconn Technology Group, is also working with Nvidia Corp. on autonomous driving applications, he said. Investors are betting that generative AI, popularized since the launch of ChatGPT in November, will supercharge swaths of the tech industry and usher in groundbreaking applications. Nvidias valuation briefly surpassed $1 trillion after the worlds biggest maker of the specialized AI chips gave a forecast that exceeded expectations. In a two-hour presentation at the Computex conference this week Taiwan, Nvidia Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang unveiled a new batch of products and services tied to artificial intelligence, looking to capitalize on a frenzy that has made his company the worlds most valuable chipmaker. Hon Hai, which also makes the majority of Apple Inc.s iPhones, reported its third consecutive quarterly profit miss in May as the smartphone slump endured. The company is looking to newer fields such as electric vehicles and AI to revive growth. It supplies servers to major global companies including Amazon.com. Inc., Alphabet Inc.s Google, and Microsoft Corp. USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Chinese search giant Baidu Inc will set up a venture capital fund of 1 billion yuan ($145 million) to back start-ups focused on content generated by artificial intelligence applications, it said on Wednesday. The company will also launch a competition for developers to build applications off its ERNIE large language model (LLM) or integrate the model into their existing products, it added. Chinese tech companies have raced to release their own LLMs following the dramatic success of ChatGPT, the AI-powered chatbot released by Microsft-backed OpenAI. Almost 80 organisations in China have launched their own LLMs since 2020, with releases this year slightly exceeding those of the United States, a report showed this week. In March, Baidu unveiled Ernie Bot, its own AI-powered LLM. E-commerce giant Alibaba Group Holding Ltd was among the other Chinese companies that followed quickly. In response to the surge of LLMs, China published draft regulations in April on the use of generative AI. USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Major Chinese automaker Geely is in the early stages of planning an entry to Thailand's electric vehicle (EV) market, including weighing models for import and local manufacturing, according to two people with knowledge of the discussions. The considerations include whether to market an entry-level electric car in Thailand as well as an electric pickup truck from its new Radar brand, the people told Reuters, asking not to be named because the talks remain private. "Geely has no such plans," a company media representative said without elaborating, also declining to provide details about any talks it was having about investments in the country. Thailand's Board of Investment held discussions with five major Chinese EV makers including Geely during a roadshow to China in April, its Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi said. The others were BYD Co Ltd, Chongqing Changan Automobile Co Ltd, JAC Motors and Jiangling Motors Corp Ltd, according to the agency. "All expressed keen interest in Thailand's policy to develop a regional EV production base and an integrated EV supply chain," Narit said, without providing more details of the talks with Geely. Thailand, the world's tenth-biggest auto producer, is searching for new investments as it seeks to protect and diversify a manufacturing base that has been heavily reliant on Japanese brands and combustion engines. The country aims to convert around 30% of its annual production of 2.5 million vehicles into EVs by 2030, according to a government plan. BYD and China's Great Wall Motor Co Ltd are already working on building local EV production in Thailand. Discussions with Geely have faced an additional complication because of the way the company has given working-level autonomy to its brand-level operating groups like Geometry and Radar Auto, one of the people said. "They have to decide what model to bring to Thailand," the second person briefed on the discussions said, adding that Geely's review included the possibility of building a plant in the country. Thailand offers some subsidies for EVs, provided automakers commit to bringing production of cars and parts to the country over a period of several years. Geely, which owns a portfolio of brands including Swedish automaker Volvo, Polestar, Lotus and Zeekr, doubled its stake in luxury carmaker Aston Martin in May. It also has a presence in Southeast Asia through a 49.9% stake in Malaysian carmaker Proton. Geometry is an electric car brand Geely launched in 2019. Sales in China nearly tripled in 2022 led by the Geometry A sedan. Geely started delivery of the Radar RD6, China's first mass-market electric pickup truck, in February. China's Great Wall Motor has said it is considering a research and development centre in Thailand that could work on battery-powered pickup trucks. Pickups are a critical part of Thailand's auto market, comprising more than half of overall light vehicle sales last year and a segment dominated by Japanese carmakers including Toyota Motor Corp and Isuzu Motors Ltd. Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Chinese industry minister Jin Zhuanglong held talks on "new energy vehicles" Wednesday, Beijing said. The two "exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent connected vehicles", China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said in a readout on its website. It did not share further details. Tesla representatives did not respond to AFP requests for further information on Musk's itinerary. Musk arrived in Beijing Tuesday on his first trip to China in more than three years. China is the world's biggest electric vehicle market and Tesla announced in April it would build a second massive factory in Shanghai. That factory will be Tesla's second plant in Shanghai after Gigafactory, which broke ground in 2019. In a meeting with Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang on Tuesday, Musk said he was "willing to continue to expand its business in China", according to a foreign ministry readout. He also expressed his opposition to an economic "decoupling" between China and the United States, Beijing said. Musk's extensive business ties to China have raised eyebrows in Washington, with President Joe Biden saying in November that the executive's links to foreign countries were "worthy" of scrutiny. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday that the country welcomed visits by international executives "to better understand China and promote mutually beneficial cooperation". USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept JPMorgan Chase & Co. Chief Executive Officer Jamie Dimon said running for public office has crossed his mind amid speculation on his long-term future beyond helming the financial services giant. I love my country, and maybe one day Ill serve my country in one capacity or another, he said in a Bloomberg Television interview, when asked if hes ever considered a public office position. His comments, made at the banks annual Global China Summit in Shanghai on Wednesday, come as the US gears up for its 2024 presidential race. The financier is among a group of long-tenured Wall Street chiefs that also includes Brian Moynihan, 63, whos led Bank of America Corp. since 2010, and the 67-year-old Dimon, who has been head of JPMorgan since 2005. Dimon has repeatedly said that he plans to remain atop the biggest US bank for five more years. In the past, Dimon has been quick to publicly shut down speculation that he planned a presidential run. For now, hes focused on his job running the largest US bank, a role hes quite happy in. But, I love what I do, he said. JPMorgan does a great job for helping Americans, for helping countries around the world. Dimon said in 2018 he could beat Donald Trump in an election, saying he was as tough and smarter. Later that same day, he put out a statement saying he shouldnt have picked the fight and wasnt running for president. Deal Coming? His outspoken views on US public policy have spurred talk that he could enter politics. Speaking Wednesday, he remained optimistic that a US debt deal will be reached. I think its going to happen, he said. If I thought it wasnt going to happen, I probably wouldnt be here right now. Dimon also said investors should be prepared for potential volatility that may arise from tighter monetary policy in the months ahead. I think the effects may be a little harsher than people expect, he said. The Islamabad High Court on Wednesday will hear the bail plea of former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan in the Al Qadir Trust corruption case, as his previous bail has expired. On May 12, the court issued a directive prohibiting authorities from arresting Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party chief in various cases, including undisclosed ones, registered throughout the country until May 15. In the subsequent hearing, the court further extended the restriction on the arrest until May 31, the Dawn newspaper reported. The court will also hear two additional bail petitions of the former prime minister, concerning cases pertaining to a violation of section 144 during a rally held in Islamabad to show support for the judiciary, as well as the incidents of violence that occurred on May 9. Later on Wednesday, an accountability court will take up the bail plea of Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, in the Al Qadir Trust case. As Khan is facing over 100 cases, Bushra is nominated in two cases -- Toshakhana (gifts) and the Al-Qadir Trust case. The Al-Qadir Trust case is about the setting up of Al-Qadir University for Sufism in the 2019 Sohawa area of Jhelum district of Punjab. The arrest of Khan on May 9 by the paramilitary Pakistan Rangers at the IHC premises triggered unrest in Pakistan. For the first time in Pakistan's history, the protesters stormed the army headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi and also torched the Corps Commander House in Lahore. Police put the death toll in violent clashes to 10 while Khan's party claims 40 of its workers lost their lives in the firing by security personnel. Khan was ousted from power in April last year after losing a no-confidence vote in his leadership, which he alleged was part of a US-led conspiracy targeting him because of his independent foreign policy decisions on Russia, China and Afghanistan. Washington is encouraging Kyiv by publicly ignoring the drone attack that struck several districts of Moscow on Tuesday, Russia's envoy to the United States said on Wednesday, after President Vladimir Putin blamed Ukraine for the strikes. The White House said it did not support attacks inside of Russia and that it was still gathering information on the incident, which Putin called an attempt to scare and provoke Moscow. "What are these attempts to hide behind the phrase that they are 'gathering information'?" Anatoly Antonov, the ambassador, said in remarks published on the Telegram messaging channel. "This is an encouragement for Ukrainian terrorists." Putin on Tuesday cast the assault, which brought the 15-month war in Ukraine to the heart of Russia, as a terrorist act. Ukraine also accuses Russia of terrorism for its bombing of Ukrainian civilians, allegations Moscow denies. A Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in the drone attack on Moscow, but said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. The attack on Moscow, which injured two, came after Russia launched three air assaults within a day on Kyiv and 17 in May so far, killing two this month, sowing destruction and fear. Russia has long accused what it calls the "collective West" of staging a proxy war against Moscow by supporting Ukraine with military and financial aid. Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, devastating cities, forcing millions of people to flee their homes and costing thousands of lives. Moscow calls the war a "special military operation" to "denazify" Ukraine and protect Russian speakers. Kyiv and its allies say it is an unprovoked land grab. USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept President of the Republic of Maldives, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Excellency, It gives me great pleasure to convey warm greetings and sincere good wishes of the Government and the people of the Maldives, and those of my own, to Your Excellency, the Government and the people of Azerbaijan on the happy occasion of the Independence Day of Azerbaijan. Let me also extend, Excellency, my personal best wishes for your good health and happiness, and for further progress and prosperity of the people of Azerbaijan. Ibrahim Mohamed Solih President of the Republic of Maldives May 31, 2023 Open (Not Ukraine) Thread 2023-130 News & views (not related to the war in Ukraine) ... Posted by b on May 31, 2023 at 13:51 UTC | Permalink Comments next page next page May 31, 2023 Ukraine Open Thread 2023-131 Only for news & views directly related to the Ukraine conflict. The current open thread for other issues is here. Please stick to the topic. Contribute facts. Do not attack other commentators. Posted by b on May 31, 2023 at 13:52 UTC | Permalink Comments next page Jacy Lewis/Reporter-Telegram Several Twitter users on Tuesday called for people to boycott Chick-fil-A after news of the fast food giant having a vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion spread on the social media site. Although Chick-fil-A has had an officer in charge of DEI efforts since at least 2020, several viral posts mentioning the vice president appointment led to some calling the company "woke." MRT file photo A 56-year-old Midland man died Monday following a one-vehicle rollover south of Big Spring on US Highway 87, according to the Department of Public Safety. DPS officials reported that Antonio Garcia of Midland and John Lyndon Brightman, 63, of Odessa were traveling south on US 87 when the 2002 Kenworth Truck they were traveling in suffered a tire blowout causing it to veer off the road onto the US 87 south entrance ramp. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) U.N. appeals judges on Wednesday significantly expanded the convictions of two allies of late Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic, holding them responsible for involvement in crimes across Bosnia and in one town in Croatia as members of a joint criminal plan to drive out non-Serbs from the areas during the Balkan wars. The appeals chamber at the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals overturned their acquittals of involvement in the criminal plan and raised the sentences of Jovica Stanisic and Franko Simatovic from 12 to 15 years. Presiding Judge Graciela Gatti Santana said the two men, both now in their 70s, shared the intent to further the common criminal purpose to forcibly and permanently remove the majority of non-Serbs from large areas of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina through the commission of the crimes charged in the indictment. The appeals ruling brings to an end the longest-running war crimes prosecution dating back to the Balkan wars of the early 1990s. Milosevic was put on trial for his alleged involvement in fomenting the bloody conflicts that erupted as Yugoslavia crumbled but he died in his cell in 2006 before verdicts could be reached. The mechanism's chief prosecutor, Serge Brammertz, hailed what he called a "really important ruling. This is the only decision we have with officials from Belgrade convicted as part of the joint criminal enterprise, he said. Stanisic was in court for the hearing, while Simatovic watched by video link from a U.N. detention unit. Gatti Santana called the appeals ruling a milestone for the court which deals with cases left over from the now-defunct U.N. war crimes courts for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda as it was the final case dealing with war crimes from the wars that erupted in the early 1990s as Yugoslavia crumbled. Stanisic and Simatovic were convicted two years ago of aiding and abetting murder and other crimes committed by Serb paramilitaries in 1992 in the Bosnian town of Bosanski Samac but acquitted of responsibility for other crimes. The appeals chamber reversed both those findings and raised their sentences. The length of the case underscores the complexity of successfully proving war crimes in international courts, amid international calls for perpetrators of atrocities during the current war in Ukraine to be brought to justice. Stanisic, a former head of Serbias State Security Service, and Simatovic, a senior intelligence operative with the service, are the only Serbian officials to have been convicted by a U.N. court of involvement in crimes in Bosnia. Stanisic and Simatovic initially were acquitted a decade ago by the U.N.'s Yugoslav war crimes tribunal but an appeals chamber later ordered a retrial. Brammertz said that war crimes trials would continue in the Balkans as many victims and survivors still await justice. For us, it was the last case, Brammertz told reporters. But we know there are hundreds of cases which still need to be prosecuted domestically. Munir Tahirovic, leader of an association of victims of war and genocide in Northern Bosnia, said that he had been waiting 30 years for a verdict linking Belgrade to crimes in his country. This judgment also proved that Serbia committed aggression not only on Bosnia and Hercegovina, but also Croatia, he said. Rights group Amnesty International's Europe Researcher, Jelena Sesar, said the ruling leaves no doubt about the involvement of Serbias police and security services in the wartime atrocities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is something that Serbias authorities continue to deny to this day. Reporter Andrew Roberto was raised his whole life on Saipan. He graduated from Saipan Southern High School, holds a degree from Northern Marianas College, and a BA in English from the University of Guam. He once worked for KUAM, UNO Magazine, and the Guam Daily Post. FILE PHOTO: Police vehicles are deployed near the vicinity of the home of Pittsburgh synagogue shooting suspect Robert Bowers' home in Baldwin borough, suburb of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S., October 27, 2018. REUTERS/John Altdorfer/File Photo Piti Mayor Jesse Alig blasts the Leon Guerrero administration during emergency session Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at the Guam Congress Building in Hagatna. If there was a response plan for Typhoon Mawar, he told lawmakers, the plan failed. Screenshot from the 37th Guam Legislature's YouTube channel A Cass County native has reached a pinnacle of her academic career, being named the next president of Culver-Stockton College in Canton, Missouri. The college's board trustees unanimously approved the appointment of Lauren (Brownback) Schellenberger as the 28th president of the 170-year-old school. She will succeed Douglas B. Palmer, who said in March that he accepted the presidency of Siena Heights University in Adrian, Michigan. Schellenberger will begin July 1. Schellenberger first joined Culver-Stockton College about 15 years ago as an assistant professor of biology while completing her doctorate in biology education at Purdue University. She has served in leadership roles at Culver-Stockton College since 2018 and, in her current role as provost, was vice president for academic affairs. "We are proud to elect Dr. Schellenberger to the role of president. [She] has displayed exceptional leadership and academic knowledge in her years with the college and has shown she will be the next great president of C-SC," board of trustees Chairman Ron Leftwich said. Schellenberger said it is her honor to lead the nearly 1,000-student college into the future. "Culver-Stockton College is a place where students of promise experience transformational growth through a distinctive curriculum and outstanding opportunities for student leadership and engagement," she said. "This institution has changed students lives for the better for the past 170 years." The college is the first institution west of the Mississippi River chartered for coeducational higher education. "[Culver-Stockton College] has been an innovator in higher education since the very beginning, Schellenberger said. I am proud to lead this forward-thinking campus community, whose focus on transferable skills and experiential learning make our graduates uniquely and supremely prepared for a dynamic world. A formal inauguration will be planned for a later date. Schellenberger is a native of Ashland. She and her husband, Steven, and their two sons now live in Canton. PITTSFIELD, Mass. (AP) A student who said he got goosebumps the first time he played the violin in an orchestra is this year's recipient of a college scholarship given in honor of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl, who was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan in January 2002 while investigating a story on terrorism. Geivens Dextra, who is scheduled to graduate from Pittsfield High School on Sunday, will use the $2,000 Daniel Pearl Berkshire Scholarship to study music at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The scholarship has been awarded annually since 2003 to a high school student from the Berkshire Hills region of western Massachusetts who plans to major in journalism or music, Pearls passions. Pearl's journalism career began in the region. It's really an honor to receive this scholarship for music, a subject that meant so much to Daniel Pearl," Dextra said Wednesday. Dextra's first formal introduction to music came in the second grade when his mother put him in the after-school music program, Kids 4 Harmony, he wrote in his scholarship essay. Inspired by a cousin already in the program, he took up the violin and eventually got to play with Bard College's Longys Sistema Side-By-Side Symphony Orchestra. I can vividly remember getting goosebumps when playing alongside the brass and winds for the first time, and instantly falling in love with orchestral music, he wrote. In high school, he performed in the school orchestra and the musical theater pit orchestra. He volunteered as a mentor and worked as a teaching assistant for Kids 4 Harmony, and played in several orchestras and summer programs, including the Boston University Tanglewood Institute. He also composed a piece of music for Hear Me, a documentary about gun violence and drug abuse in Berkshire County. Doing this project has opened my eyes to how music can be used to spread awareness in my community and in the spirit of Daniel Pearl, I am eager to take on more opportunities that can make a change in society through music," he wrote. Pearl, south Asia bureau chief for The Wall Street Journal, was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan in January 2002 while investigating links between Pakistani militant groups and Richard C. Reid, known as the shoe bomber. Reid had attempted to blow up a flight from Paris to Miami with explosives hidden in his shoes, a flight that was diverted to Boston. Pearl began his journalism career at the North Adams Transcript and The Berkshire Eagle in Pittsfield. The scholarship is funded by contributions from the newspapers as well as Pearls friends and former colleagues. BEARDSTOWN Cooking oil left on a stove is believed to have caused a fire Tuesday at a Beardstown assisted living facility. Firefighters were called about 2:30 p.m. to Parkside Place at 1501 Canal St. and arrived to find "hallways full of smoke," Beardstown Fire Chief Brandon Hager said. Mutual aid firefighters from Meredosia and Arenzville and emergency personnel from Meredosia Rescue Squad, AirEvac, the Cass County Sheriff's Department, Beardstown Police Department and the Red Cross were called to assist. Staff from the Cass County Health Department's Beardstown office also helped. It was the first day for the department in a building across the street and Hager said staff came out and helped with accountability of all residents and allowed them into the health department to get out of the heat and the sun. After making sure all residents were out, Hager said firefighters isolated the apartment where the fire was located and put it out. Firefighters were on the scene about two and a half hours. The room in which the fire started will not be livable for some time, Hager said, but the rest of the building sustained just minimal smoke damage. Most residents of other apartments were allowed to go back if they chose. One firefighter was taken to Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville "out of an abundance of caution for dehydration," Hager said. Hager also thanked the staff of the Cass County Health Department for lending some assistance. "It was their first first day in their new building right across the street (from Parkside Apartments)," he said, "but their staff came out and helped with accountability of all the residents and...basically allowed them in to the health department to get out of the heat and the sun." A story map that took first place in statewide competition now has taken first place in national competition a first for Jacksonville High School. Jacksonville High School graduates Rachel Lay and Grace Newman were seniors when they took first place in the ArcGIS Online Competition for U.S. High School and Middle School Students. The competition sponsored by Esri, a geographic information system software company, asks students to conduct research on something in their home state. Lay and Newman created a map pinpointing more than 2,000 traffic accidents in Jacksonville to identify areas where a higher number of accidents occur. "I really wasn't expecting it," Lay said of the national win. "It's amazing. This was an amazing opportunity to show Jacksonville and highlight problems that need to be fixed to keep the community safe." Lay and Newman were notified of their win Tuesday and will begin recording a presentation on their story map for a webinar later this summer. Newman said it was great news to which to wake up. "I woke up and saw the email from (JHS geography teacher) Jim Chelsvig and I didn't believe it," Newman said. "I called Rachel and asked if she'd heard about it. I told her and we both started screaming on the phone. It's really cool." The girls' story map competed against 439 other projects. According to the competition website, there were 440 entries from 61 schools across 30 states. The girls worked with Jacksonville Police Chief Adam Mefford to get details of every traffic accident in the city from 2017 through 2022 before plotting them on the map. They also received Illinois Department of Transportation data on traffic patterns, including the number of vehicles that travel through an intersection on any given day. Using that, they were able to compare the number of accidents to the amount of traffic to see when areas are the most dangerous, Lay said. Streets such as Morton Avenue have a high volume of vehicles and a higher number of accidents; compared to other streets in town, the number of accidents is low compared to the amount of traffic, she said. The pair identified several areas that show a high number of accidents in comparison to their traffic volume, including the south entrance to the downtown square, and the intersections of West College Avenue and Park Street, West College Avenue and South Church Street; West Lafayette Avenue and North Prairie Street, and Walnut and North Main streets. Each intersection has its own set of circumstances that Lay and Newman believe leads to a higher number of accidents. Chelsvig said the school has entered the state GIS competition four times and has won each time, though this is the first year a project has taken first in the nation. "We finally broke through," Chelsvig said. "All maps tell a story and I thought they were really deliberate about that. They showed the steps they went through. It was intuitive with a clear narrative, beginning to end." Chelsvig said he believes the effort they put into it really helped. "They went and walked the landscape and drove the streets," Chelsvig said. "They looked at things you wouldn't see in a map. I am very happy with both of them and the work they invested." Newman hopes the story map encourages other municipalities to look for trends in their communities, she said. "I hope people will look at it and bring it up with their municipalities," Newman said. "If they look at their intersections, they can add or refresh signs and make things more clear." RELATED: Jacksonville High School seniors' 'crash map' takes first in state, heads to nationals SDI Productions/Getty Images Lincoln Land Community College is offering an exploration program for potential health care students to view various careers this summer. The school has received a grant that will allow 15 prospective health-profession students to explore various careers while receiving $15 an hour while they job shadow through the Healthcare Entry-Level Professional Skills program. tihomir_todorov/Getty Images/iStockphoto An Illinois man who allegedly stole a backhoe to get to the airport on time made his flight out west but was eventually caught and arrested in Nevada. In a report from the Associated Press, a man who last later identified as Timothy Baggott of Carbondale, was caught on video allegedly stealing a backhoe to make it Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois a good 10 miles from the location where the alleged incident took place. Jacksonville Police ARRESTS, CITATIONS Antonio B. Depriest, 51, of 603 Prairie St. was arrested at 6:03 p.m. Sunday in Community Park on a domestic battery charge. He is accused of striking his daughter in the face, according to a police report. THEFTS, BURGLARIES A coloring book and purse were taken from a residence in the 1300 block of South Diamond Street, according to a report filed at 10:27 p.m. Monday. An impact drill and battery were stolen between 9:50 and 10 p.m. Monday from the 900 block of Beesley Avenue. Two bicycles were stolen between Friday and 8:16 p.m. Monday from the backyard of a residence in the 400 block of Jordan Street. A juvenile found bag of money and identification cards reported missing from a business in the 1600 block of West Morton Avenue and returned it to the owner about 4:18 p.m. Sunday. VANDALISM Three masked men were seen damaging the windshield of a vehicle in the 800 block of West Lafayette Avenue, according to a report filed at 10:38 p.m. Sunday. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate SALIX, Iowa (AP) Ron DeSantis blitzed through Iowa during his first full day of presidential campaigning on Wednesday, aiming for the kind of personal connections with voters that critics say have long eluded him while stepping up his verbal swipes at former President Donald Trump. The Florida governor packed in four appearances that took him to cities, rural locales and the conservative heartland following his glitch-filled online campaign kickoff last week. The first was to the floor of Port Neal Welding in Salix, a rural town near Sioux City, where the nearby highway was lined with metal structures including a towering Jesus, a version of the Statue of Liberty and the Minions. DeSantis also hit Council Bluffs and Pella before concluding his day in Cedar Rapids. All that came after a Tuesday night appearance in the state capital, Des Moines. He didnt take audience questions usually a staple at Iowa presidential campaign events during the five stops in front of more than 2,000 people combined across both days. Instead, DeSantis gave similar speeches at each appearance, repeatedly talking up his efforts to push Florida farther to the right. While he sometimes seemed energized by the crowds, he barreled through his remarks at other times talking so fast that there were few pauses for the audiences to applaud. By the final event, though, he was better about allowing time for cheers, especially from an enthusiastic crowd of around 600 in Cedar Rapids. The tired dogmas of the past are inadequate for a vibrant future. We have to look forward, DeSantis said in Salix, speaking in front of a green tractor and a crowd of about 100, many wearing caps bearing seed company logos. We cant look backwards. We must have the courage to lead and we must have the strength to win. DeSantis is trailing Trump in the polls and has been dogged by criticism that, while hes comfortable on stage, he can seem halting and awkward when interacting with regular voters. Displaying a personal touch that resonates with voters is vital in states like Iowa. Thats a departure from Florida and its large, expensive media markets, where television advertising is often more important than on-the-ground campaigning. Trying to position himself as the most formidable alternative to Trump in the crowded-but-still-forming Republican White House primary field, DeSantis didn't mention the former president by name during his speeches. But he did question the direction of a GOP that continues to be dominated by Trump. We have to dispense with the culture of losing that weve seen throughout the Republican Party," he told a crowd of hundreds of cheering supporters in Council Bluffs, adding that the party "should have 55 Republican senators right now, if we had played our cards right over the last few years. And he frequently mentioned that he felt like it would likely take two terms to really roll back the actions of the Biden administration a veiled reference to Trump, who can only serve one more term. But speaking to reporters after his Tuesday night speech at a suburban Des Moines church, DeSantis went even further. The governor accused Trump of abandoning America First principles on immigration, supporting coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns and generally having moved left." DeSantis also laughed off frequent criticism from the former president over his leadership in Florida, particularly on the states response to COVID-19. Hell, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship, DeSantis said. Attempting to display a softer side was DeSantis' wife, Casey, who was a fixture throughout Wednesday's multiple events and sometimes drew more applause than he did. She spoke most often about the couple's young children, and the importance of family and community. After his speech is Salix, both the governor and his wife sat for a fireside chat among hydraulic lifts and long welding tables arrayed with metal engine parts to offer stories of their favorite drive-thru chicken restaurant and their kids including a messy incident involving permanent marker drawings on the bathroom walls of the governors mansion. They just seem very down to earth, said Bev Lessman, a 70-year-old retired teacher from Sioux City. After speaking, DeSantis walked through the audience and Lessman wrapped her arms around DeSantis neck and told the governor she could feel what seemed to her to be the governors Christian devotion. I told him we cant make others live it, but I appreciated how he expressed his faith, she said later. He replied, But we can model it, she said. Others, though, felt like DeSantis was trying too hard to connect with voters. Geno Foral, 29, of Council Bluffs said he felt like most of DeSantis' speech there was prepared in advance to appeal to Iowa voters. But he also said the governor had delivered for Florida. It cant all be scripted because theres results in his leadership," Foral said. After Iowa, which leads off Republican primary voting, DeSantis was heading to New Hampshire on Thursday and South Carolina on Friday two other locales that vote early on the party's primary calendar, and where face-to-face interactions with voters are especially important. Already scheduled to be in Iowa on Thursday, meanwhile, Trump added Wednesday stops in the state to overlap with DeSantis. While taping a radio appearance in Des Moines, the former president called DeSantis a very disloyal person" but also said the two were locked in a certain kind of war. The person thats in second place, you go after that person as opposed to a person thats in eighth or ninth place, Trump told radio host Simon Conway, who asked why Trump is attacking fellow Republicans. Trump added of DeSantis: Im running against him and I think, you know, maybe one of the things that people like about me is that I do fight. You know, how would you like it if I came out and I just wimped around and told you, Oh gee, hes a wonderful person'?" DeSantis will be back in Iowa again Saturday for an event for 2024 GOP hopefuls hosted by Sen. Joni Ernst. They will be joined by declared candidates including Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, along with former Vice President Mike Pence. Pence is among the candidates expected to officially join the GOP primary field next week, along with former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. So much travel across multiple states will give DeSantis a lot of unscripted moments with voters and he got a taste of that as he moved through the audience at the end of the Salix appearance. Some people approached the governor with specific points, as did Mark Choquette, who questioned DeSantis about his assertions that two terms were needed to succeed. If he dont bust ass and tear up D.C. in the first term, he may not get a second term, and then where he be? asked Choquette, a 76-year-old retired U.S. Marine and Vietnam War veteran. Thats one reason I like Trump. He doesnt have to worry about getting reelected." ___ Weissert reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Josh Funk in Council Bluffs, Iowa, Jill Colvin in New York and Steve Peoples in Clive, Iowa, contributed to this report. WARSAW, Poland (AP) The Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial museum has denounced a political spot by Poland's ruling party that uses the theme of the Nazi German extermination camp to discourage participation in an upcoming anti-government march. The state-run museum attacked instrumentalization of the tragedy of the 1.1 million people who were murdered at the site during World War II, arguing that it is an insult to their memory. It is a sad, painful and unacceptable manifestation of the moral and intellectual corruption of the public debate, the state museum said. The 14-second video published Wednesday by the Law and Justice party shows images of the former death camp, including the notorious Arbeit Macht Frei gate, and the words: Do you really want to walk under this slogan? The reference is to a now-deleted tweet from journalist Tomasz Lis, who claimed that President Andrzej Duda and ruling party leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski deserve to go to prison. He published the tweet amid a heated debate over a law passed by the party lawmakers and signed by Duda that is viewed by the U.S., the European Union and many Polish critics as anti-democratic. There will be a chamber for Duda and Kaczor, the tweet said, using a nickname for Kaczynski. He used the Polish word komora, which can be simply a dark cell or chamber but which many in Poland associate with the gas chambers used by Germans in mass murder during the war. Lis has since deleted the tweet and apologized. "It is obvious that I was thinking of a cell, but I should have foreseen that people of ill will would adopt an absurd interpretation. I hope that Mr. Duda and Mr. Kaczynski will pay for their crimes against democracy, but on a human level I wish them health and long life, Lis said. I never wished death on anyone. President Duda weighed in with a tweet that implied criticism of the party that supports him. The memory of the victims of German crimes in Auschwitz is sacred and inviolable; the tragedy of millions of victims cannot be used in political struggle; this is an unworthy act," he said. The purported aim of the new law is to create a commission to investigate Russian influences in Poland. But critics fear that it will be misused ahead of fall elections to target opponents, in particular opposition leader Donald Tusk. They say the commission could be used by the ruling party to eliminate its opponents from public life for a decade. The law was approved this week by Duda, to widespread criticism in Poland and by the EU and the United States. Critics in Poland have informally dubbed it Lex Tusk, and its passage has energized the political opposition. Tusk plans to lead a large anti-government march on Sunday in Warsaw, the capital. The march is to be held on the 34th anniversary of the first partly free elections in Poland after decades of communism, on June 4, 1989. Malaysia finds 100 old artillery shells on Chinese barge, says it likely plundered WWII shipwrecks Malaysia finds 100 old artillery shells on Chinese barge, says it likely plundered WWII shipwrecks View Photo KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) Malaysias maritime agency said Tuesday a Chinese barge likely plundered two World War II British shipwrecks in the South China Sea after discovering 100 more old artillery shells on the detained vessel. Malaysian media reported that illegal salvage operators are believed to have targeted the HMS Repulse and the HMS Prince of Wales, which were sunk in 1941 by Japanese torpedoes days after the attack on Pearl Harbor. A total of 842 sailors perished, and the shipwrecks off the coast of Malaysias central Pahang state are designated war graves. Fishermen and divers alerted authorities after spotting a foreign vessel near the area last month. The maritime agency detained the barge, registered in Fuzhou, China, on Sunday for anchoring without a permit off southern Johor state. Upon investigation, the agency found piles of scrap metal and an artillery shell believed to be from World War II on the vessel. The agency said a thorough search Tuesday found 100 more artillery shells of various sizes on the Chinese vessel. It said the shells were taken by the police bomb disposal unit to be detonated. It said it does not rule out the possibility that the vessel is the same ship that plundered the British warships. Britains National Museum of the Royal Navy said last week it was distressed and concerned at the apparent vandalism for personal profit. Known as prewar steel, the material from the two warships is valuable and could be smelted for use in manufacturing of sensitive scientific and medical equipment. The maritime agency said it believes the artillery shells are linked to the police seizure of dozens of artillery shells and other relics at a scrapyard in Johor earlier this month. The New Straits Times newspaper said the shells are believed to be from the warships and that police conducted on-site controlled detonations of them. The agency said there were 32 crew members aboard the barge 21 Chinese, 10 Bangladeshis and a Malaysian. In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters that the government has asked Malaysia to handle the case fairly in accordance with law. She said Chinese citizens safety and legitimate rights and interests must be protected and urged Malaysia to notify Beijing of the progress of the investigation. It is not the first time the two shipwrecks have been targeted. The New Straits Times reported that foreign treasure hunters used homemade explosives in 2015 to break the heavy steel plates on the ships for easy plundering. Other media said authorities detained a Vietnamese vessel involved in looting the wreckage at the time. UN appeals court increases sentences for 2 Serbs convicted of crimes in Balkan wars View Photo THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) U.N. appeals judges on Wednesday significantly expanded the convictions of two allies of late Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic, holding them responsible for involvement in crimes across Bosnia and in one town in Croatia as members of a joint criminal plan to drive out non-Serbs from the areas during the Balkan wars. The appeals chamber at the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals overturned their acquittals of involvement in the criminal plan and raised the sentences of Jovica Stanisic and Franko Simatovic from 12 to 15 years. Presiding Judge Graciela Gatti Santana said the two men, both now in their 70s, shared the intent to further the common criminal purpose to forcibly and permanently remove the majority of non-Serbs from large areas of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina through the commission of the crimes charged in the indictment. The appeals ruling brings to an end the longest-running war crimes prosecution dating back to the Balkan wars of the early 1990s. Milosevic was put on trial for his alleged involvement in fomenting the bloody conflicts that erupted as Yugoslavia crumbled but he died in his cell in 2006 before verdicts could be reached. The mechanisms chief prosecutor, Serge Brammertz, hailed what he called a really important ruling. This is the only decision we have with officials from Belgrade convicted as part of the joint criminal enterprise, he said. Stanisic was in court for the hearing, while Simatovic watched by video link from a U.N. detention unit. Gatti Santana called the appeals ruling a milestone for the court which deals with cases left over from the now-defunct U.N. war crimes courts for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda as it was the final case dealing with war crimes from the wars that erupted in the early 1990s as Yugoslavia crumbled. Stanisic and Simatovic were convicted two years ago of aiding and abetting murder and other crimes committed by Serb paramilitaries in 1992 in the Bosnian town of Bosanski Samac but acquitted of responsibility for other crimes. The appeals chamber reversed both those findings and raised their sentences. The length of the case underscores the complexity of successfully proving war crimes in international courts, amid international calls for perpetrators of atrocities during the current war in Ukraine to be brought to justice. Stanisic, a former head of Serbias State Security Service, and Simatovic, a senior intelligence operative with the service, are the only Serbian officials to have been convicted by a U.N. court of involvement in crimes in Bosnia. Stanisic and Simatovic initially were acquitted a decade ago by the U.N.s Yugoslav war crimes tribunal but an appeals chamber later ordered a retrial. Brammertz said that war crimes trials would continue in the Balkans as many victims and survivors still await justice. For us, it was the last case, Brammertz told reporters. But we know there are hundreds of cases which still need to be prosecuted domestically. Munir Tahirovic, leader of an association of victims of war and genocide in Northern Bosnia, said that he had been waiting 30 years for a verdict linking Belgrade to crimes in his country. This judgment also proved that Serbia committed aggression not only on Bosnia and Hercegovina, but also Croatia, he said. Rights group Amnesty Internationals Europe Researcher, Jelena Sesar, said the ruling leaves no doubt about the involvement of Serbias police and security services in the wartime atrocities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is something that Serbias authorities continue to deny to this day. By MIKE CORDER Associated Press Germany orders Russia to close 4 out of its 5 consulates in tit-for-tat move Germany orders Russia to close 4 out of its 5 consulates in tit-for-tat move View Photo BERLIN (AP) The German government said Wednesday that it has told Russia to close four out of its five consulates general in Germany in a tit-for-tat move after Moscow set a limit for the number of staff at the German Embassy and related bodies in Russia. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Christofer Burger told reporters in Berlin that the measure was intended to create a parity of personnel and structures between the two countries. Russia has consulates in Bonn, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Leipzig and Munich, with Moscow deciding which four they will close and which one they will keep open. The Russian government recently said that an upper limit of 350 German government officials, including those working in cultural bodies and schools, can remain in Russia. Burger said that this means Germany will have to shut its consulates in Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk and Kaliningrad by November. Only the embassy in Moscow and the consulate in St. Petersburg will remain open, he said. He said that Russia will be allowed to continue operating the embassy in Berlin and one further consulate after the end of the year. The move reflects a new low in relations between Moscow and Berlin since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Burger said that the move was regrettable, but added that the war meant there was simply no basis for numerous bilateral activities between the two countries anymore. But it is the behavior of the Russian side that has brought us into this situation, he said. Burger said Germanys decision to concentrate its remaining staff in the embassy and a key consulate will preserve the diplomatic presence in Russia. By FRANK JORDANS Associated Press Congressman Tom McClintock View Photo Washington, DC The US House will vote today on a bill negotiated between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Joe Biden to suspend the US debt ceiling and set new federal spending limits. It passed the House Rules Committee yesterday with a 7-6 vote. While it is still unknown how the final vote will play out in the full US House, Mother Lode Republican Congressman Tom McClintock announces that he is in favor of the bill. In a new myMotherLode.com blog, he explains his opposition to a similar bill in 2011, which he now calls something of most regret during his 15 years in Congress. The full blog, entitled, Why I Support the Fiscal Responsibility Act, can be found here. Congressman McClintock also details specific aspects of the bill that he likes and dislikes. Sacramento, CA Lawmakers at the state capitol are debating whether to increase the amount of money that many residents would receive for taking part in jury duty. The current pay, $15 per day, has remained the same for over 20 years. A bill by Democratic Assemblymember Phil Ting calls for boosting it to $100 for anyone whose income is below 80% of the median amount of the area. It would start as a pilot program in just a handful of selected counties, outside the Mother Lode, but could then be expanded to the rest of the state in future years. The pilot program was approved by the full California Assembly and now moves to the Senate. In addition to the requirement of being below the 80% median income, the $100 payment would not apply to jurors whose companies already compensate for jury duty, or people who are unemployed or self-employed. The goal of the bill is to better offset the financial impacts of having to miss work for jury duty. Daniel Pearl scholarship winner wants to change society through music View Photo PITTSFIELD, Mass. (AP) A student who said he got goosebumps the first time he played the violin in an orchestra is this years recipient of a college scholarship given in honor of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl, who was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan in January 2002 while investigating a story on terrorism. Geivens Dextra, who is scheduled to graduate from Pittsfield High School on Sunday, will use the $2,000 Daniel Pearl Berkshire Scholarship to study music at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The scholarship has been awarded annually since 2003 to a high school student from the Berkshire Hills region of western Massachusetts who plans to major in journalism or music, Pearls passions. Pearls journalism career began in the region. Its really an honor to receive this scholarship for music, a subject that meant so much to Daniel Pearl, Dextra said Wednesday. Dextras first formal introduction to music came in the second grade when his mother put him in the after-school music program, Kids 4 Harmony, he wrote in his scholarship essay. Inspired by a cousin already in the program, he took up the violin and eventually got to play with Bard Colleges Longys Sistema Side-By-Side Symphony Orchestra. I can vividly remember getting goosebumps when playing alongside the brass and winds for the first time, and instantly falling in love with orchestral music, he wrote. In high school, he performed in the school orchestra and the musical theater pit orchestra. He volunteered as a mentor and worked as a teaching assistant for Kids 4 Harmony, and played in several orchestras and summer programs, including the Boston University Tanglewood Institute. He also composed a piece of music for Hear Me, a documentary about gun violence and drug abuse in Berkshire County. Doing this project has opened my eyes to how music can be used to spread awareness in my community and in the spirit of Daniel Pearl, I am eager to take on more opportunities that can make a change in society through music, he wrote. Pearl, south Asia bureau chief for The Wall Street Journal, was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan in January 2002 while investigating links between Pakistani militant groups and Richard C. Reid, known as the shoe bomber. Reid had attempted to blow up a flight from Paris to Miami with explosives hidden in his shoes, a flight that was diverted to Boston. Pearl began his journalism career at the North Adams Transcript and The Berkshire Eagle in Pittsfield. The scholarship is funded by contributions from the newspapers as well as Pearls friends and former colleagues. 3 more GOP governors sending National Guard troops to US-Mexico border View Photo RICHMOND, Va. (AP) The governors of Virginia, West Virginia and South Carolina on Wednesday joined a growing list of Republican leaders sending their state National Guard soldiers or other state law enforcement officers to the U.S. border with Mexico. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who is considered a possible presidential aspirant, announced an executive order directing the deployment of 100 Virginia National Guard soldiers and 21 support personnel. South Carolinas Henry McMaster and West Virginias Jim Justice announced their deployments shortly thereafter, also in response to a request from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. The announcements bring to at least eight the number of Republican-led states deploying soldiers or offering other assistance in the weeks since Abbott appealed for help. The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state, Youngkin said in a statement. As leadership solutions at the federal level fall short, states are answering the call to secure our southern border, reduce the flow of fentanyl, combat human trafficking and address the humanitarian crisis. President Joe Biden announced in early May plans to send 1,500 active-duty troops to the border, in addition to the 2,500 National Guard members already there. Those military personnel were tasked with data entry, warehouse support and other administrative duties so that U.S. Customs and Border Protection can focus on fieldwork, the White House said. But the Virginia deployment and others from Republican-led states have specifically been in support of Texas Operation Lone Star, which is separate from the active duty and National Guard troops working with the Customs and Border Protection. Abbott launched Lone Star in 2021, saying that the Biden administration was essentially welcoming illegal immigration. Critics have questioned the effectiveness of the multi-billion dollar operation. Some arrests, including for low-level amounts of marijuana during traffic stops, appeared to have little to do with border security, and some Texas National Guard troops initially complained of low morale, late paychecks and having little to do. Abbotts request this month came through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, which facilitates state-level mutual aid nationwide. Youngkin and McMaster also joined other governors in Austin last week to discuss border policies. McMasters news release said South Carolinas mission is in the planning phase, with a goal of deployment by July 1. Justice said he had approved the deployment of as many as 50 West Virginia National Guard soldiers and airmen for 30 days. Youngkins order said the Virginia troops will answer to a military commander during a 30-day deployment, not any local civilian authorities. The operating cost of the mission is $3.1 million, spokeswoman Macaulay Porter said in an email. Youngkin, a former private equity executive who is barred under Virginia law from seeking a second consecutive term, is frequently mentioned as a possible 2024 presidential contender. He said earlier this month that he had no plans to launch such a bid this year. Presidential candidate and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is among the other governors who have announced plans to deploy Guard troops and other officers since Abbotts request was made. Mississippi, Iowa, Tennessee, and Nebraska have also volunteered aid, and other GOP-led states have made similar deployments in recent years, part of the partys criticism of Bidens performance on the border. CBP said it doesnt have any role with National Guard deployments with individual states, including Texas. In Virginia, while some Republicans praised Youngkins decision, the states Democrats characterized the move as absurd, disingenuous or politically motivated. Youngkin for President has officially jumped the shark our VA National Guard troops shouldnt be used to further presidential ambitions much less fight a MAGA culture war in Texas of all places Never thought I would see my state so compromised, state Sen. Scott Surovell tweeted. ___ Associated Press reporters John Raby in Charleston, West Virginia; Jeffrey Collins and James Pollard in Columbia, South Carolina; and Rebecca Santana in Washington contributed to this report. By SARAH RANKIN Associated Press Ex-New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie planning to launch GOP presidential campaign next week View Photo NEW YORK (AP) Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is expected to launch a Republican presidential campaign next week in New Hampshire. Christie, who also ran in 2016, is planning to make the announcement at a town hall Tuesday evening at Saint Anselm Colleges New Hampshire Institute of Politics, according to a person familiar with his thinking who spoke on condition of anonymity to confirm Christies plans. The timing, which was first reported by Axios, comes after several longtime Christie advisers started a super political action committee to support his expected candidacy. The Associated Press had previously reported that Christie was expected to enter the race imminently. Christie has cast himself as the only potential candidate willing to aggressively take on former President Donald Trump, the current front-runner for the nomination. Christie, a former federal prosecutor, was a longtime friend and adviser to Trump, but broke with Trump over his refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election. Christie has since emerged as a leading and vocal critic of the former president. Christie, who is currently polling at the bottom of the pack, dropped out of the 2016 presidential race a day after finishing sixth in New Hampshires primary. In addition to Trump, Christie would be joining a GOP field that includes Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, U.S. Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and biotech entrepreneur and anti-woke activist Vivek Ramaswamy. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum is expected to announce his candidacy on June 7, according to two GOP operatives. And former Vice President Mike Pence is also expected to launch a campaign soon. Allies believe that Christie, who has been working as an ABC News analyst, has a unique ability to communicate. They say his candidacy could help prevent a repeat of 2016, when Trumps rivals largely refrained from directly attacking the New York businessman, wrongly assuming he would implode on his own. Christie has also said repeatedly that he will not run if he does not see a path to victory. Im not a paid assassin, he recently told Politico. While Christie is expected to spend much of his time in early-voting New Hampshire, as he did in 2016, advisers believe the path to the nomination runs through Trump and they envision an unconventional, national campaign for Christie with a focus on garnering media attention and directly engaging with Trump. By JILL COLVIN Associated Press Redo of federal plane evacuation tests sought as passengers squeeze into smaller spaces View Photo Lawmakers who want tougher standards for evacuating aircraft in an emergency have criticized the Federal Aviation Administration for what they consider unrealistic simulations, and now they are calling for a do-over of current evacuation tests. Decades-old federal rules require that planes be designed so that passengers can escape the cabin within 90 seconds in case of fire or some other emergency, even with half the exits blocked. Critics say the FAA has been lax in ensuring that todays airliners with more seats and narrower rows meet that standard. They point to incidents including an American Airlines plane that caught fire on the ground in Chicago in 2016. Video from inside the plane showed panicked passengers clogging the aisle as they waited to slide down emergency chutes. Twenty people were injured in the chaotic escape. It should not it cannot take another tragedy to bring our aircraft evacuation standards up to date, Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., said in announcing legislation she and others introduced Wednesday to require changes in how FAA conducts evacuation tests. When the FAA ran drills on an aircraft cabin mock-up in Oklahoma City in 2019, all the volunteers who took part were able-bodied adults under 60. The FAAs administrator at the time acknowledged that the tests provided useful, but not necessarily definitive information. The FAA grudgingly conducted those tests only after Congress ordered the agency to come up with minimums for the size of airline seats and the distance between rows. Lawmakers said new standards are necessary because Americans are getting heavier while airlines are cramming more seats on planes. The FAA declined to comment but has previously said the chance that passengers will survive an emergency is very high. The agency and has resisted efforts to set minimum standards for seat size and distance between rows, saying those are issues of comfort, not safety. A federal appeals court ruled in FAAs favor this year. Airlines have making seats thinner and reducing legroom to squeeze more passengers on every flight. The distance from a seatback to the one in front or behind it airlines call that pitch used to measure about 35 inches; now its 28 inches on some airlines and 31 or 32 inches on others. Duckworths legislation would require FAA standards to consider seat size, the layout of rows, the presence of carry-on bags, purses and briefcases even though passengers are told to leave those items behind and a real-world range of passengers including children, seniors and people with disabilities. Major unions representing flight attendants support the bill, as do Paralyzed Veterans of America, Muscular Dystrophy Association and groups representing people who are blind, deaf or autistic. By DAVID KOENIG AP Airlines Writer BRYAN, Texas (AP) Disgraced Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes has reported to a federal prison in Texas marking the start of her 11-year sentence for overseeing a notorious blood testing hoax. Holmes, 39, was convicted of fraud last year for duping investors who contributed hundreds of millions of dollars in the failed Silicon Valley startup. Holmes and Ramesh Sunny Balwani, Holmes' former partner and fellow executive who is currently serving a nearly 13-year prison sentence, said Theranos had developed a device that could quickly scan for diseases and other medical conditions with a just few drops of blood. But the technology never worked as advertised leading to the meteoric downfall of a company that once promised to revolutionize health care. On Tuesday, Holmes entered a federal womens prison camp in Bryan, Texas a minimum-security facility where the federal judge who sentenced Holmes in November recommended she be incarcerated. Here are some things to know about Federal Prison Camp Bryan and Holmes' arrival at the facility. WHY IS HOLMES BEING INCARCERATED IN BRYAN NOW? Holmes reported to FPC Bryan on Tuesday, the Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed. The arrival comes more than a year after a jury convicted Holmes on four felony counts of fraud and conspiracy in January 2022. She was sentenced to 11 years in November. Holmes had originally been ordered to begin her prison sentence on April 27, but won a reprieve with a last-minute legal maneuver that gave her more time with her two young children. Earlier this month, U.S. District Judge Edward Davila set Holmes revised prison-reporting date for May 30. In a separate ruling, Davila also ordered that Holmes and Balwani pay a $452 million in restitution. Attorneys representing Holmes did not immediately respond when contacted by The Associated Press for statement on Tuesday. WHERE IS FEDERAL PRISON CAMP BRYAN? FPC Bryan is located about 95 miles (150 kilometers) northwest of Houston. The facility encompasses about 37 acres (15 hectares) of land. According to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, FPC Bryan is one of a handful of minimum security facilities of its kind across the nation. WHO ELSE IS HELD IN FPC BRYAN? About 650 women are housed in FPC Bryan including Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Jennifer Shah, who was sentenced earlier this year to 6 1/2 years in prison for defrauding thousands of people in a yearslong telemarketing scam. In addition to Shah, other recognizable figures who have served sentences at FPC Bryan in the past include former Enron executive Lea Fastow, participant in the Jan. 6 Capitol attack Jenna Ryan, and Michelle Janavs, heir to the Hot Pockets fortune and a former investment executive who participated in the college admissions scandal, according to The New York Times. WHAT IS A MINIMUM-SECURITY PRISON LIKE? Federal prison camps like FPC Bryan are minimum-security institutions. Most of those types of facilities dont even have fences and hold inmates the Bureau of Prisons considers to be the lowest security risk. The prison camps also often have minimal staffing and many of the people incarcerated there work at prison jobs. According to a 2016 FPC Bryan inmate handbook, those in the Texas facility who are eligible to work can earn between 12 cents and $1.15 per hour in their job assignments, which include food service roles and factory employment operated by Federal Prison Industries. Federal prison camps were originally designed with low security to make operations easier and to allow inmates tasked with performing work at the prison to avoid repeatedly checking in and out of a main prison facility. But the lax security opened a gateway for contraband, such as drugs, cellphones and weapons. The limited security has also led to a number of escapes from prison camps. DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) About 100 Iowa National Guard troops and 30 public safety officers will be sent to the U.S. border with Mexico, Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Tuesday. Reynolds said the National Guard troops would be deployed for 30 days in August and the Department of Public Safety officers would be assigned for 30 days in September. AUSTIN, Texas (AP) Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday picked a longtime ally who oversaw Texas' elections in 2022 to temporarily serve as attorney general following Republican Ken Paxton's historic impeachment on allegations of misconduct and crimes. John Scott, who stepped down as Texas Secretary of State last year, takes over as the state's top lawyer on an interim basis while Paxton awaits a trial in the state Senate that could result in his permanent removal. The trial is set to begin no later than Aug. 28. Paxton was impeached last weekend by the Texas House of Representatives, triggering his immediate suspension from office. Abbott has kept silent about Paxton in the week since House Republicans began impeachment proceedings. The governor announced Scott's appointment in a statement that did not mention Paxton or comment on the accusations against him. John Scott has the background and experience needed to step in as a short-term interim Attorney General during the time the Attorney General has been suspended from duty, Abbott said. Scott has been a trusted hand of Abbott's for more than a decade. He served as a state litigator when Abbott was attorney general, and when Abbott's pick for secretary of state in 2019 was derailed after a bungled review of voter rolls, the governor turned to Scott instead. At the time, the appointment alarmed voting rights groups over Scott's brief stint as a member of President Donald Trumps legal team that challenged the 2020 election results. Scott withdrew from the case after only a few days and has said he does not dispute that President Joe Biden won the election. Paxton weathered years of scandal and maintained his partys support to win three statewide attorney generals races before the vote in the Republican-controlled House abruptly swept him from power. The vote came after a monthslong House investigation into the attorney general that resulted in 20 charges alleging sweeping abuses of power, including obstruction of justice, bribery and abuse of public trust. Paxton has criticized the impeachment as an attempt to overthrow the will of the people and disenfranchise the voters of our state. He has said the charges are based on hearsay and gossip, parroting long-disproven claims. Texas' senators will serve as jurors in Paxton's upcoming trial one of whom could be his wife, state Sen. Angela Paxton, who has not said whether she will participate in the proceedings. During his yearlong stint as Texas' election chief, Scott was tasked with trying to give voters confidence about election results and the ability to cast a ballot after Republicans passed a sweeping new voting law. Those efforts got off to a bumpy start during Texas first-in-the-nation primary as voters struggled to navigate new mail voting requirements, resulting in counties throwing out nearly 23,000 mail ballots. BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) Tensions between Serbia and Kosovo flared anew this week after Kosovos police raided Serb-dominated areas in the regions north and seized local municipality buildings. There have been violent clashes between Kosovos police and NATO-led peacekeepers on one side and local Serbs on the other, leaving dozens of people injured on both sides. Serbia raised the combat readiness of its troops stationed near the border and warned it wouldnt stand by if Serbs in Kosovo were attacked again. The situation has again fueled fears of a renewal of the 1998-99 conflict in Kosovo that claimed more than 10,000 lives and left more than 1 million homeless. WHY ARE SERBIA AND KOSOVO AT ODDS? Kosovo is a mainly ethnic Albanian populated territory that was formerly a province of Serbia. It declared independence in 2008. Serbia has refused to recognize Kosovos statehood and still considers it part of Serbia, even though it has no formal control there. Kosovos independence has been recognized by about 100 countries, including the United States. Russia, China and five EU countries, most of them with separatist regions of their own, have sided with Serbia. The deadlock has kept tensions simmering and prevented full stabilization of the Balkan region after the bloody wars in the 1990s. HOW DID SERBIA'S ALLIES REACT? Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the situation in Kosovo was alarming and that it could provoke another conflict in the heart of Europe. A huge explosion is being prepared in the center of Europe, in the place where, in 1999, NATO attacked Yugoslavia, violating every imaginable (international) principle," he said, according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti. China said that it was closely following the developments. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning urged NATO to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity "of the relevant countries and truly do what is conducive to regional peace. WHATS THE LATEST FLARE-UP ABOUT? Serbs boycotted last months local elections held in northern Kosovo, where they are a majority. Last Friday, newly elected ethnic Albanian mayors moved into their offices with the help of Kosovos riot police. Serbs tried to prevent the new mayors from taking over the premises, but the police fired tear gas to disperse them. On Monday, Serbs engaged in fierce clashes with NATO peacekeepers, leaving more than 50 rioters and 30 international troops injured. The election boycott followed a collective resignation by Serb officials from the area, including administrative staff, judges and police officers, in November 2022. WHAT IS NATO DOING IN KOSOVO? Till this week, some 3,800 NATO troops were stationed in Kosovo, primarily on peacekeeping duties, but also to watch over the borders, especially the one with Serbia where Belgrade has currently been beefing up its troop presence. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Tuesday the alliance had sent 700 more troops to Kosovo to help quell violent protests and had put another battalion on standby in case the riots spread. HOW DEEP IS THE ETHNIC CONFLICT IN KOSOVO? The dispute over Kosovo is centuries old. Serbia considers the region the heart of its statehood and religion. Numerous medieval Serb Orthodox Christian monasteries are in Kosovo. Serb nationalists view a 1389 battle against Ottoman Turks there as a symbol of its national struggle. Kosovos majority ethnic Albanians view Kosovo as their own country and accuse Serbia of occupation and repression. Ethnic Albanian rebels launched a fight to rid the country of Serbian rule in 1998. Belgrades brutal response prompted a NATO intervention in 1999, which forced Serbia to pull out and cede control to international peacekeepers. HAVE THERE BEEN ATTEMPTS TO RESOLVE THE DISPUTE? There have been constant international efforts to find common ground between the two former wartime foes, but there has been no final comprehensive agreement so far. EU officials have mediated negotiations designed to normalize relations between Serbia and Kosovo. Numerous agreements have been reached, but were rarely implemented on the ground. Some areas have seen results, like introducing freedom of movement within the country. WHO ARE THE MAIN PLAYERS? Both Kosovo and Serbia are led by nationalist leaders who have shown no readiness to compromise. In Kosovo, Albin Kurti, a former student protest leader and political prisoner in Serbia, leads the government and is the main negotiator in EU-mediated talks. He was also known as a fierce supporter of Kosovos unification with Albania and is against any compromise with Serbia. Serbia is led by populist President Aleksandar Vucic, who was information minister during the war in Kosovo. The former ultranationalist insists that any solution must be a compromise in order to last and says the country wont settle unless it gains something. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? International officials are hoping to speed up negotiations and reach a solution in the coming months. Both nations must normalize ties if they want to advance toward EU membership. No major breakthrough would mean prolonged instability, economic decline and constant potential for clashes. Any Serbian military intervention in Kosovo would mean a clash with NATO peacekeepers stationed there. ___ A previous version of this story misspelled the name of Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning. BEIJING (AP) Beijing responded Wednesday to complaints from the United States about a Chinese fighter jets dangerous interception of an American Air Force reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the South China Sea by demanding an end to such flights. The incident adds to military, diplomatic and economic tensions between the countries over U.S. support for self-governing Taiwan, China's refusal to engage in dialogue between their armed forces and Beijing's flying of a suspected spy balloon over the U.S. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters at a daily briefing that China would keep taking measures it deems necessary to safeguard its sovereignty. "The U.S. should immediately stop these dangerous provocations," Mao said. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command called the Chinese plane's actions an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver, adding to complaints that Chinas military has become significantly more aggressive over the past five years, intercepting U.S. aircraft and ships in the region. China says it owns the South China Sea virtually in its entirety, a claim not recognized internationally and directly challenged by nations along its coast including the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia. In a statement Tuesday, the U.S. military said the pilot of the Chinese J-16 fighter jet flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135 conducting routine operations in international airspace last Friday. Military-to-military contacts between the sides have all but evaporated in recent years amid a historic decline in governmental relations, even as trade and personal exchanges remain strong. Further dampening prospects for a reduction in tensions, China said its defense chief will not meet with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when the two men attend a security conference in Singapore over the weekend. Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday that the plane incident showed why it is vital for the U.S. and China to maintain dialogue at a senior level in order to prevent miscommunication and avoid miscalculations that could lead to conflict. He said it was regrettable that Beijing had rejected Austins request for a meeting with the Chinese defense minister. I think it only underscores why it is so important that we have regular, open lines of communication, including by the way between our defense ministers," Blinken said at a news conference at the end of an EU-US trade and technology meeting in Lulea, Sweden. As weve said repeatedly, while we have a real competition with China, we also want to make sure that doesnt veer into conflict and the most important starting point for that are regular lines of communication," he said. China has said the U.S. is entirely responsible for the breakdown in communications, but has not publicly given a reason. With its People's Liberation Army as the world's largest standing military, which answers directly to the ruling Communist Party, China frequently challenges military aircraft from the U.S. and its allies in the South and East China Seas, and the Taiwan Strait connecting the two. Such behavior led to a 2001 in-air collision between a Chinese fighter and U.S. Navy surveillance plane in which the Chinese plane was lost and pilot killed. In Tuesday's statement, the Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, and expects all other countries to do the same. ___ Associated Press writer Matthew Lee in Oslo, Norway, contributed to this report. HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) Zimbabwe's national elections will take place on Aug. 23, the country's president announced Wednesday. The vote is expected to be another closely watched affair in a country with a history of violent and disputed elections. The announcement through a government gazette also set Oct. 2 for a presidential runoff vote if required. Opposition parties have already made allegations of violence and intimidation against their supporters in the buildup to the elections, and human rights groups have said President Emmerson Mnangagwa is silencing criticism. The southern African nation has only had two leaders since it gained independence from white minority rule in 1980. Robert Mugabe led Zimbabwe for 37 years until he was removed and replaced by Mnangagwa in a coup in 2017. Mnangagwa had served as a vice president under Mugabe. The last general election was held in 2018, nearly a year after the coup. Once a close ally of Mugabe, Mnangagwa, 80, has tried to present himself as a reformer despite accusations that he is even more repressive than the man he helped remove from power. Mnangagwa is expected to face a strong challenge from Nelson Chamisa, the 45-year-old leader of the main opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change. Chamisa narrowly lost to Mnangagwa in 2018, with the Constitutional Court dismissing his claims of election rigging. Apart from the presidency, the election will also decide the composition of the 300-seat parliament and close to 2,000 local council positions. Mnangagwas ZANU-PF ruling party and the government have denied allegations of violence and intimidation by ruling party activists and security forces. But rights groups have accused Mnangagwas government of intimidation and of suppressing any criticism and opposition amid a currency crisis and a sharp rise in food prices. Zimbabwe has faced severe economic problems for years and has been under U.S. sanctions for two decades over human rights abuses. Mugabe died in 2019. Chamisa said this week he is ready for the election, but has made allegations of voting roll irregularities. Compounding that, Chamisa said his party is at a disadvantage because Mnangagwa and ZANU-PF control staterun media and hold sway over the police, other security forces and the judiciary, which are used to clamp down on dissent. On Wednesday, Fadzayi Mahere, spokeswoman for the Citizens Coalition for Change, tweeted: No govt thats popular & knows its winning behaves like this. Theyre terrified cause, like all of us, they know that ZANU PF can never win a free & fair election in Zimbabwe." "Thats why theyre trying to stitch & doctor the voters roll but it wont work. People want change. Opposition parties had accused Mnangagwa of delaying announcing a date for the election that must take place before the end of August. Mnangagwa's announcement came a day after Zimbabwe's foreign ministry summoned the United States deputy ambassador over a series of tweets the embassy sent calling for a peaceful election. The ministry accused the embassy of election-related social media posts bordering on activism and meddling in Zimbabwes internal affairs. Deputy Ambassador Elaine French was called to a meeting with Zimbabwe foreign affairs acting permanent secretary Rofina Chikava on Tuesday following the posts on the U.S. Embassy's official Twitter account. The Zimbabwe foreign ministry said it had a particular issue with a May 26 tweet that called for Zimbabweans to Register to vote and make sure your voice is heard. Another tweet from the embassy said Zimbabwes constitution grants citizens the right to choose their representatives in legitimate, credible, & peaceful elections. The foreign ministry said the tweet urging people to register to vote was against diplomatic protocols. We stand by our recent social media posts calling for peace during the election season," U.S. Embassy spokeswoman Meg Riggs said in a statement. Elections are a part of a functioning democracy. ___ More AP Africa news: https://apnews.com/hub/africa MERIDEN As Carabetta Companies wind down conversion of an obsolete trailer park into a small home development on Broad Street, housing advocates say the state lags behind others in this type of development. Realtor Alexa Kebalo Hughes of the Connecticut Realtors Association lives in a small cabin in Colebrook. The property has several small cabins on 350 acres. Kebalo Hughes said she doesnt expect the attraction to tiny homes to slow down anytime soon. Theres a massive trend towards smaller homes and storage unit conversions for both residential and commercial throughout the nation, Kebalo Hughes said. The best approach to solve the housing crisis is you need all of the above, large multi-family buildings, condos, town homes, tiny houses and trailers, said Peter Harrison, executive director of Desegregate Connecticut. Connecticut is so far behind the ball, we need all kinds of solutions. Smaller homes on small lots are cheaper to construct, developers can fit more on a lot and create some interesting village cluster communities. But that can be a challenge with existing zoning laws, Harrison said. The choice of what kind of home you want is made by small pools of zoning commissions, he said. They want single homes on large lots and thats not conducive to needs. Doing business as North Broad Park LLC, Carabetta received a special exception from the Zoning Board of Appeals to change the use at 1173 and 1187 N. Broad St. from a mixed-use, 12-unit mobile home park with restaurant to a 12-unit detached multi-family development with no restaurant. The homes would be leased. The city currently doesn't have a formal definition of a tiny house, but at 480 square feet for a two-bedroom, units in the Carabetta development might be considered a tiny house, associate City Planner Brian Grubb said last year. A project manager for Carabetta Construction, explained that the development will be comprised of ten 12 foot by 40 foot two-bedroom units and two 12 foot by 32 foot one-bedroom units, all rental. Company representatives dont refer to the project as a tiny house development but rather innovative housing. Regardless of what its labeled, the developments are a rarity in Connecticut, where the largest numbers of tiny homes, on wheels or a slab foundation are in Tolland County. The reasons are less restrictions on land use. Nationally, there are also tiny home projects outside of Atlanta, Georgia, and in Texas and Florida that sit on permanent slabs or wheels. Most states are very far behind, said Dan Fitzpatrick, president of the Tiny Home Industry based in California. In California, they changed the law regulating accessory apartments and its gone from a handful to thousands. There are more accessory units being built than new homes. The popularity is due to the quick turnaround and affordability. The land is owned and utilities are in place. You go to the factory, pick the one you want. Two days later its in your yard. Its popular in San Diego and Los Angeles, Fitzpatrick said. Having a rental in your back yard helps you make your mortgage payment. In 2021, the Connecticut General Assembly passed a law that unified statutes on accessory apartments. While most towns allowed accessory apartments, the requirements varied greatly from town to town. Some towns said only a blood relative can live in an accessory apartment. Others required costly applications and a full public hearing. HB 6107 ensured these requirements were more reasonable and carry across different towns, according to Desegregate Connecticut. Accessory apartments are also one way towns like Greenwich can increase their affordability percentage. Towns with less than 10% of their housing stock deemed affordable are allowing deed restrictions onto accessory apartments. Tiny home buyers tend to be people over age 55, who have older children or parents. Many of the homes on wheels buyers are traveling nurses who need to relocate throughout the country. People dont want something permanent and they can rent it out for income. The association represents builders, suppliers and owners of tiny homes. Harrison said the newer tiny homes are more appealing to owners than trailers because the construction is better. The builders use the same materials as they would in single-family homes that dont depreciate as quickly as a trailer or recreational vehicle. Trailer parks arent necessarily replacing trailers with tiny homes, but are including them in their projects, he said. A lot of people are buying up older campgrounds, parks and saving them exclusively for tiny homes, Fitzpatrick said. Slowly but surely, tiny home communities are popping up across the country. A number of communities nationwide are changing their zoning to allow clusters. Its a misnomer to say tiny homes are housing the homeless, Fitzpatrick continued. Many of the transitional housing projects geared toward the homeless are little more than sheds. A true home must contain a kitchen and bathrooms, not a shed you can buy at Home Depot. The costs to build and zone are also a challenge. A developer would have to build a McMansion to get their money back after paying for land, zoning and other expenses, said Fitzpatrick who was in the home construction industry. But when looking at the demographics, this type of housing can make sense on smaller lots because almost 70% of households are two or fewer people, Fitzpatrick said. Generation Z is getting married and having children later in life and dont require as much space. The need for one bedroom-type units is huge, Fitzpatrick said. More cities are permitting clusters in the inner city for workforce affordable housing. Its happening around the country. mgodin@record-journal.com203-317-2255Twitter: @Cconnbiz WALLINGFORD Two New Haven residents pleaded guilty to multiple car theft charges stemming from incidents in July 2022. Tihaja Ortiz-Tucker, 19, of New Haven, was charged with three counts of taking a motor vehicle from a person by force, violence and intimidation and one count of conspiracy to take a motor vehicle from a person by force, violence and intimidation, according to the U.S. attorneys office. Ruben Montano, 20, of New Haven, was charged with one count of carjacking. On three separate occasions, Ortiz-Tucker and other individuals including Montano reportedly posed as interested buyers looking for a car on Facebook Marketplace before meeting up with sellers and stealing their vehicles, bills of sale and car ownership documents at gunpoint, according to police. Police said Ortiz-Tucker sold at least two of these vehicles with Montano admitting to participating in one car theft and sale. Authorities said Ortiz-Tucker also reportedly participated in two Uber carjackings. Ortiz-Tucker reportedly hailed cabs in New Haven, had drivers drop him off in Wallingford and stole their vehicles at gunpoint in the town. Both stolen vehicles were reportedly found in Hamden, according to police. Montano is scheduled to appear in court for sentencing on July 31 and Ortiz-Tucker will be sentenced on Aug. 22. For over a decade, families of 35 victims have been pleading for answers after the bus they were travelling in plunged into the flooded Rwenya River in 2013 an untold disaster finally revealed with the construction of a new bridge. Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri spoke of the sad and untold story while commissioning the $5 million Rwenya Bridge. She said the passenger bus, carrying 35 people, tried to cross the river on the night the original bridge was swept away but was overcome by the heavy current. The bus and all its occupants were swallowed up by the raging floodwaters. To this day, the remains of the victims and wreckage of the bus have not been recovered, stoking fears they were swept into the Indian Ocean due to the areas proximity to Mozambique. Relatives of the missing passengers have been left in limbo, desperately seeking closure. Muchinguri-Kashiri urged government officials to work together under the Missing Persons Act to declare the victims officially missing, which would allow their estates to be settled. The tragedy highlights ongoing dangers in the area. Though demining efforts are ongoing, landmines planted during the liberation war continue to kill and maim people and animals around Rwenya, with over 1,500 casualties since independence. While Zimbabwe has made significant progress clearing landmines, an estimated 35 square kilometres remain including around Rwenya River. The government aims to make the entire country landmine-free by 2025. For now, the families of the 35 victims of the Rwenya bus plunge remain in painful limbo, pleading for authorities to properly investigate the 2013 tragedy and provide long-overdue answers. Until then, the full scale of this forgotten loss of life will likely remain untold. Breaking News via Email From Politicos morning European newsletter. Note further down in Links the US criticizing Kosovo: EU AND US SLAM POLANDS LEX TUSK: Alarm bells are going off in EU capitals and Washington over a new Polish law that will allow a government commission to ban people from holding public office potentially blocking opposition candidates from running in this years elections. The new law is a tool of political intimidation and persecution to prevent change at the next elections in Poland, Manfred Weber, leader of the center-right European Peoples Party, told Playbook. It is a legislative scandal in the heart of Europe. Whats in it: The new bill, which President Andrzej Duda said he will sign into law, would create a commission meant to investigate Russian influence in Polish politics. The commission would have the power to ban people from public office for a decade. Polands ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party say its an effort to root out Kremlin agents. Poland has been at the forefront supporting Ukraine since Russias full-scale invasion began last year. But the real target could be someone else: The law comes ahead of this falls pivotal parliamentary election that has the ruling party and opposition in a neck-and-neck race. The opposition warns the commission is aimed at harassing political rivals especially Donald Tusk, a former Polish prime minister and European Council president who heads the opposition Civic Platform party (a member of the EPP). The new legislation could be misused to interfere with Polands free and fair elections, the U.S. state department said in an unusually strong statement. We share the concerns expressed by many observers that this law to create a commission to investigate Russian influence could be used to block the candidacy of opposition politicians without due process. EU vows to step in and act: I can assure you that we will not hesitate to take immediate action as necessary when we see that there is space and need for such action, the Commissions Vice President for Values and Transparency Vera Jourova said during a press conference. We have a special concern now about the situation in Poland, Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders told reporters. A special committee able to deprive citizens of their right to be elected in a public office forms the focus of concern. (Natural News) Babies being breastfed by mothers injected with mRNA shots against the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) are dying. This warning came from Dr. William Makis, a Canadian physician with a triple specialization in radiology, oncology and immunology and the author of over 100 peer-reviewed medical articles. Makis provided two cases of babies who passed away due to being breastfed by mothers fully vaccinated against COVID-19. (Related: Nurse whistleblower: Fetal deaths have SKYROCKETED since pregnant women started being forced to get COVID-19 vaccines.) One case involved a 36-year-old mother from New Mexico, who wrote about how her eight-week-old baby died on July 2021. He became very sick with a high fever on June 21, about two weeks after I got the first Pfizer vaccine, she wrote. He was treated for two weeks with IV antibiotics for a supposed bacterial infection, however they never found any bacteria. After the 14-day course of antibiotics, he was home for one week, but exhibited strange symptoms, she continued, noting how her child had a swollen eyelid, strange rashes and was regularly vomiting. I took him back to the hospital on July 15, where he presented with what they called an atypical Kawasaki disease. He passed away shortly thereafter from clots in his severely inflamed arteries, she concluded. Makis presented another case, that of a five-month old baby who died on March 20, 2021, just three days after the infants mother received her second dose of Pfizers mRNA vaccine. Just one day after the mother was fully vaccinated, the infant instantly developed a rash and became inconsolable, refusing to eat and developed a fever, Makis wrote. Baby was brought to ER, blood analysis revealed elevated liver enzymes, was hospitalized but continued to decline and died on March 20, 2021, with a diagnosis of TTP. Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a disorder characterized by the sudden formation of blood clots in small blood vessels that can block the flow of blood to vital organs like the brain, kidneys and heart. Doctors have been warning against vaccinating pregnant and breastfeeding mothers since the beginning Medical experts have been warning governments almost since the beginning of the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines that these jabs should be kept away from pregnant and breastfeeding women over serious concerns about their safety. One such group composed 66 doctors, scientists and other clinical practitioners published its own open letter warning that the safety concerns about COVID-19 vaccinations in pregnancy are too dangerous to ignore. The group, which includes obstetricians and gynecologists from the U.K., have warned against recent advice from medical organizations in the country about vaccinating pregnant women, claiming that it is in complete contradiction to everything that it itself and academic institutions have been teaching about evidence-based medicine. This advice is that: COVID-19 vaccines are not only safe but strongly recommended for pregnant women, wrote the group in the letter. Such advice is not grounded in robust data based on ethically conducted research and anyone who is medically and academically trained should take serious issue with this. The experts noted how concerned and deeply disturbed they are about how best scientific practices are being distorted just to bring a newly developed pharmaceutical product to market. We have a collective duty to restore the principles of medical ethics to our practice and to clinical research to protect the most vulnerable groups from harm, and this includes pregnant women and their babies, the group concluded. Visit VaccineDamage.news for more stories about the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine. Watch this video showing how so-called experts repeatedly told the world that the COVID-19 vaccines were safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women. This video is from the COVID Times channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Pfizer data reveals COVID-19 vaccines were NEVER safe for pregnant women. TURBO CANCER: Children are DYING within hours or days of leukemia diagnosis, often after receiving vaccine jabs. The false messaging on vaccines given to pregnant women. Naomi Wolf: No more normal placentas since COVID-19 vaccine rollout. Dr. Bryan Ardis: Venom peptides produced from COVID-19 vaccines prevent embryos from attaching to the uterus, causing miscarriages. Sources include: GlobalResearch.ca InfoWars.com Brighteon.com (Natural News) A book set to be released in June chronicles Robert Kennedy Jr.s involvement in resolving public health crises in the U.S., particularly the chronic disease epidemic affecting children across the nation. The intimate biographical portrait titled The Real RFK Jr: Trials of a Truth Warrior written by Dick Russell exposes the misconceptions and explains the rationale behind Kennedys campaign to protect public health based on dozens of interviews with RFK Jr.s colleagues. It also details how he evolved from one of the countrys top environmental attorneys into a medical freedom advocate and outspoken critic of Big Pharma. Russell describes how on multiple occasions, mothers of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities reached out to the son of former U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of former President John F. Kennedy and urged him to look into the issue of mercury in vaccines. This prompted Kennedy to study peer-reviewed science, where he discovered the shocking cover-up by the pharmaceutical industry. The science clearly indicated that thimerosal, a mercury-based vaccine preservative, was causing an unprecedented epidemic of neuroimmune damage to children nationwide. It was further exposed that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) added numerous mercury-containing vaccines to the childhood vaccination schedule, and injuries began occurring after that. This also came after Congress passed the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986, which empowered vaccine makers to be immune from liability for injuries and deaths from their experimental products. The book also touched on how mainstream media (MSM) censors reports on legitimate vaccine safety concerns. Russell further delves into everything from Kennedys sometimes death-defying river rafting adventures to his pioneering legal cases against polluters like Smithfield Foods and Monsanto, while founding the worlds largest water protection group. The Real RFK Jr. also examines his pursuit of the truth about the assassinations of his father and uncle; the wrongful murder conviction of his cousin; and the false narratives around the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Kennedy is the founder and chairman-on-leave of Childrens Health Defense (CHD), a nonprofit activist group mainly known for advocating against vaccines and their damage, especially to children. In April, he announced that he would challenge President Joe Biden for his partys nomination. MAGA supporters want Kennedy as Trumps running mate Despite RFK Jr.s Democratic stand on abortion rights and gun control, his views on vaccines and other issues have started to earn conservatives support. (Related: RFK Jr. promises punishment against all government officials who committed crimes against humanity during covid: Not retribution but justice!) Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon said he even received a standing ovation from a hardcore Make America Great Again (MAGA) crowd at a recent speaking engagement, where Trump supporters are floating the idea of a bipartisan Trump-Kennedy ticket. Bobby Kennedy would be, I think, an excellent choice for President Trump to consider as a running mate, Bannon commented on a War Room episode. Roger Stone, one of Trumps early political advisers, even called Trump-Kennedy a dream ticket on the news program Real America. Stone said he likes the candidates opposition to globalists and skepticism of continued U.S. support for Ukraine against Russia. On those geopolitical ideas, he makes a lot of sense. In fact, he sounds a lot like Donald Trump, he noted. Trumps former national security adviser Michael Flynn also tweeted how he is really starting to like this presidential candidates attitude. Meanwhile, conservative talk show host Steve Deace posted a picture with Kennedy on Twitter with a caption: As long as he doesnt go trans, a man with high character and courage like RFK Jr. will be tempting. Meanwhile, Kennedy has earlier pushed back on reports that Bannon encouraged him to run for president as a chaos agent against Biden. He tweeted on April 8: Steve Bannon has nothing to do with my presidential campaign. Head to VoteDemocrat.news for updates on RFK Jr.s bid for the Democratic Partys presidential nomination. Watch the video below where Mike Adams interviewed RFK Jr. on election integrity, free speech, border issues and more. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: ABC News censors Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s criticisms against covid vaccines. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. rejects climate cultism, while expressing genuine alarm about stopping REAL pollution and ecological destruction. Climate change is being exploited by mega billionaires to tyrannize the planet, warns RFK Jr. RFK Jr. doesnt think its fair for males who call themselves trans to invade womens sports. Sources include: ChildrensHealthDefense.org 1 ChildrensHealthDefense.org 2 Congress.gov Kennedy24.com NBCNews.com Brighteon.com (Natural News) In less than one year, 27 comedians around the world have died suddenly. Not a single report mentioned that every single one of them was likely injected with millions of toxic spike proteins that are known to cause sudden unexplainable cardiac arrest or stroke. Coincidence? Think again. Eleven of them were Americans, and several died right on stage, after pushing for other naive humans to run out and get the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) clot shots, which are known to cause fatal vascular clots, invade the cleansing organs and trigger hyper-immune reactions that wind up sending these joke-telling vaccine pushers six feet under. CDC does not want autopsies done on the deceased who were vaccinated Although several billion humans have been vaccinated for COVID-19 at least once, if not a few times, only a handful of autopsies of those who died suddenly afterward have been performed. The news, despite censorship and cover-ups, has been littered with stories of perfectly healthy people dying of unknown causes, including more than two dozen comedians in the past year. Its happening to military members, athletes, pilots, and now joke tellers, who, ironically, get paid by the vaccine pushers to push propaganda and insult those who avoid the clot shots like the plague. No wonder why. Take for example Comedian David A. Arnold, the Netflix star who died suddenly at the ripe age of 54, while on a comedy tour. Coroners ruled out that he died from natural causes, so what was it then? No cause of death is reported at all. Why not? The odds that Arnold was injected with millions of deadly spike prions was high, because he was performing at clubs that REQUIRED proof of full vaccination for entry. Another comedian who died unexpectedly was English comedian Andy Smart. Again, no cause of death was available. Then the American comedian Teddy Ray passed away at the young age of 32. His cause of death is hidden from the public eye. Why? Teddy Ray had appeared several times on the Russell Simmons digital comedy stream All Def Digital, and on MTVs Wild N Out. In Japan, Tsuyoshi Kubota, a member of the Japanese comedy duo Independence Day, died suddenly at the young age of 36. His health had deteriorated rapidly, but the reports wont say how or why. Again, the cause of death was hidden from the public eye. Why? Nobody had ever heard of him having health issues, then suddenly, it all went down hill and he died? Sounds like another result of the mysterious clot shot plandemic. Sean Lampkin, the comedian who played bartender Nispey on the show Martin, died at age 54 of unknown causes in his sleep at age 54. Also, US actor (Emmy award winner) and comedian Leslie Jordan, from American Horror Story, died from his own horror story vaxxident when his car crashed into a wall in Hollywood. Speculation is that he passed away while driving after getting vaccinated with spike protein prions that may have caused a heart attack or stroke. This is now a very common cause of death, though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and mass media are in cahoots to cover it all up. The list just goes on and on, and the spookiest part is that most of the comedians that are flopping on stage performed at clubs that required COVID jabs to enter, and many of them made jokes about people being afraid of the clot shots. How ironic. The Fauci Flu jabs are obviously nothing to joke about, as they are likely to cause myocarditis, pericarditis, vascular clots, auto-immune disorder, central nervous system problems and a whole host of other deathly side effects. Watch out Jimmy Kimmel, those clot-shot jokes might just come home to roost, as they have with so many other vaccine industry comedic shills. Bookmark Vaccines.news to your favorite independent websites for updates on the Vaccine Holocaust thats sweeping the nation and the world as you read this. Sources include: MarkCrispinMiller.substack.com TheSun.ie NBCNewYork.com (Natural News) Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revealed that drug overdose killed the equivalent of a large plane full of Americans every other day in 2022. Citing reporting delays, officials believe the final count could be around 109,680, which would be a record high. The figures represent a plateau from the previous year when 109,197 overdose deaths were recorded. The White House said its a sign that America is closer to beating the drug crisis. But health experts were more skeptical, with one scientist warning that the plateau could be a wobble before addictive drugs like fentanyl and xylazine cause overdose deaths to rise again in the United States. The country has been fighting a never-ending battle with an escalating overdose crisis since 2010, the year fentanyl was first added to the illicit drug supply. The addictive drug is up to 50 times more powerful than heroin and can help drug users achieve a more intense high. Fentanyl, which is also used as horse medication, is toxic. As little as two milligrams of fentanyl are enough to kill an adult. Signs of fentanyl addiction include: Anxiety Euphoric or depressed mood Fixation on securing more fentanyl Inability to function in lifes major functions Losing interest in activities you previously considered enjoyable Needing to use fentanyl more often or in larger doses to achieve the same high Severe cravings for more fentanyl Swollen hands and feet The figures from the CDC were based on reports submitted to the National Vital Statistics System, which monitors births and deaths nationwide. The reports revealed that there were 105,452 overdose deaths from drugs in 2022. However, the figure is still provisional because of the time taken for deaths to be cataloged and the cause of death to be determined. There is another few thousand still expected to be reported. Based on the provisional figures, overdose fatalities are expected to have increased by 0.5 percent in 2022 compared to 2021. (Related: Skin-rotting animal tranquilizer drug known as tranq spreads all over US.) While this is a lower rise than in previous years, its not enough to indicate a decrease in the figures with deaths going up 17 percent in 2021 and 30 percent in 2020. The shocking figure is also the equivalent of all 660 passengers on a Boeing 747 dying every other day. Dr. Rahul Gupta, the director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), claimed the figure was evidence that the country was finally beating the crisis. But Dr. Donald Burke, a health scientist at the University of Pittsburgh who modeled 40 years of data on the overdose crisis, warned that the plateau may be a wobble before another increase. Anybody looking at this with historical trends in mind, and a few statistics in mind, will probably say its not going to go down, said Burke. Big Pharmas greed leads to drug crisis Americas drug crisis can be traced back to the 1990s, when greedy pharmaceutical companies started to aggressively market opioid painkillers as a safe and effective way to treat chronic pain. These companies were able to convince doctors that the risk of addiction was low. As a result, many doctors wrote prescriptions for millions of patients in the country. When opioid painkillers ran out, many addicted users looked for more on the black market. Others switched to heroin as a cheaper and more accessible alternative. This greedy move triggered todays crisis, with manufacturers now lacing supplies of drugs like heroin with fentanyl. Visit Addiction.news to learn more about addiction in the United States. Watch the video below to find out how Mexico intercepts fentanyl packages from China. This video is from the Pool Pharmacy channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Canada spends $113M on COVID vaccine campaigns, but only $1.5M on opioid awareness ads. Arrival of COVID-19 stimulus checks fueled a surge in opioid overdose deaths. NARCAN goes OVER THE COUNTER nationwide, saving people who overdose on FENTANYL before emergency services can arrive. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk PoconoMountainRecoveryCenter.com Brighteon.com (Natural News) Bombshell Video: The COVID Pandemic Was the Result of Extensive Media Propaganda: Nobody Is Safe, BE AFRAID! https://www.globalresearch.ca/covid-pandemic-was-entirely-product-propaganda-nobody-safe/5820225 (Article republished from PaulCraigRoberts.org) Time and time and time again, insouciant Americans allow the presstitutes to brainwash, indoctrinate, and deceive them. Afterwards they, or some of them, eventually catch on. But despite lesson learned, another precedent that erodes truth and liberty has been established. And despite lesson learned they will sit in front of their TV screens for their next brainwashing and indoctrination by the presstitutes who serve the ruling oligarchy by deceiving Americans. My voice is that of one; theirs are many. We dont have to go far back in time, just the adult lifetime of the current older American generation to list deception after deception. We had the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and his brother Robert Kennedy by the CIA and its cover up by both political parties and the Warren Commission. With JFK out of the way, we had the fake news Gulf of Tonkin incident used by the Johnson regime and the Democrats to start the Vietnam war that cost the US 50,000 American lives and our reputation. https://www.history.com/topics/vietnam-war/gulf-of-tonkin-resolution-1 After that the atrocities exploded. Not to name them all, we had the Clinton regimes violation of the word of the US Government when, taking advantage of Russian weakness with the collapse of the Soviet Union resulting from President Gorbachevs arrest by hardline members of the Politburo, Clinton moved NATO to Russias border. American patriots hailed this fatal error as giving communism a knock-out blow. Then we had the inside job of 9/11 that gave the US neoconservatives their new Pearl Harbor to launch their wars against Middle Eastern countries that constrained Israeli expansion into Southern Lebanon and further. Then we had the invasion of South Ossetia, a Russian protectorate, by the US equipped and trained Georgian army. Georgia, the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, before the Soviet collapse was long a province of Russia. Then we had the orchestrated Maidan Revolution in Ukraine in 2014 which overthrew a government living at peace with Russia, which Ukraine had been a part for many centuries, and replaced it with a neo-Nazi government directed by Washington. This stupid and irresponsible act by the US neoconservatives has resulted in increasing gratuitous provocations of Russia that will end in nuclear war. Then we had the orchestrated Covid Pandemic that used propaganda and fear to accustom Western peoples to the removal of their freedoms and Constitutional civil liberty protections in order to be safe. And again the insouciant Western peoples fell for it, and again diminished their liberties. The US has lived through Russiagate, exposed by Special Counsel Durham as a baseless FBI orchestration to discredit President Donald Trump, two baseless impeachments of Trump based on nothing but ideological hatred, a fake January 6 insurrection orchestrated to demonize Trump and his supporters, a fake documentsgate scandal orchestrated against Trump until it was found that Biden, as VP, had in his possession far more documents of the kind being used to go after Trump. And now we have pornstargate. An aging porn star apparently saw her last chance for wealth as extortion of Trump during his presidential campaign. Trumps attorneys advised, pay her and get rid of what the Democrats will make the main campaign issue. The charge by the black New York state prosecutor and black attorney general is that Trumps lawyers misreported the payoff as a legal expense, which it was as it was advised by and handled by attorneys, when it should have been reported as a campaign expense. This is not a legitimate basis for indicting a President of the United States. When we consider that the President of the United States can be harassed for seven years entirely on the basis of obvious false charges, how can we expect that the United States has a future? If they can do this to a President, what can they do to you and I? Having watched the insouciant American public for a lifetime, I have been convinced by them that they are incapable of defending their liberty and incapable of recognizing the challenges to their liberty. They forever fall for the foreign enemy pitch of the ruling establishment. Insouciance is inconsistent with liberty. I believe Jean Raspail saw the end of the Western World in 1973 and described it in his novel, The Camp of the Saints. To stave off discouragement, I recite to myself the 9th century Anglo-Saxon poem, The Battle of Malvern Bridge, where the English Earl attempting to hold off the Viking raiders, tells his diminishing force: As our numbers diminish, our will must grow stronger. So I fight on as our numbers diminish. Read more at: PaulCraigRoberts.org (Natural News) The World Health Organization could soon gain the powers to force the UK into lockdown under the forthcoming pandemic treaty, a number of MPs have warned. (Article by Peter Caddle republished from Breitbart.com) Six members of the UK parliament have written to the countrys government urging them to reject a so-called pandemic treaty which will vastly expand the powers of the World Health Organization (W.H.O.). Also known as the Pandemic Accord, the deal will see binding rules imposed on all member states of the World Health Organization forcing them to fight so-called disinformation and allocate five per cent of their annual health budget to preparing for the next global pandemic. According to a report by The Telegraph, the six Conservative Party politicians also believe that the agreement will also see the W.H.O. given the power to unilaterally force the United Kingdom into lockdown if it so wishes, which they noted is a significant threat to the UKs national sovereignty. There is, rightly, growing concern about the W.H.O.s Pandemic Treaty and International Health Regulations, Esther McVey, the MP who headed up the letter to the government, reportedly said, with the politician warning that there is evident ambition for the W.H.O. to transition from an advisory organisation to a controlling international authority. The plans represent a significant shift for the organisation, from a member-led advisory body to a health authority with powers of compulsion, she continued. This is particularly worrying when you consider the W.H.O.s poor track record on providing consistent, clear and scientifically sound advice for managing international disease outbreaks. House conservatives urged the House Foreign Affairs Committee to take up two bills that would defund and withdraw from the World Health Organization (W.H.O.), Breitbart News has learned exclusively. https://t.co/BEUnxjDeZj Breitbart News (@BreitbartNews) May 24, 2023 In response to the letter, Foreign Office minister Andrew Mitchell told The Telegraph that while the government did support the treaty, they would shoot down any measure involving the handing-over of sovereignty from the UK to the W.H.O. The UK is supportive of the pandemic treaty currently being negotiated by national governments, which could speed up the sharing of data on new pandemic threats so we are able to respond quickly in the event of future pandemics, he claimed. Were clear that we would never agree to anything that crosses our points of principle on sovereignty or prevents the UK from taking decisive action against future pandemics, the official added. However, under amendments currently being pushed internationally for the bill, there are proposals to make measures set out in the treaty binding, something that would effectively result in governments handing over partial control of health and budgetary body to the World Health Organization. Such a sudden spike in the W.H.O.s power has provoked concern within the United States, with some Republicans keen to prevent President Joe Biden from signing up to any agreement without consulting the Senate. The United Nations-linked World Health Organization is a corrupt organization that President Trump got us out of, but President Biden disgracefully rejoined, Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-WI) remarked during a push to force Biden to consult the legislature before signing up to the new agreement. The United States should be in charge of our own pandemic policy; we should never outsource that power to an international bureaucracy that behaves like a puppet of Communist China, he added. This legislation puts congressional oversight and transparency into what otherwise could be bad medicine for Americas public health. Other Republicans have even pushed for the U.S. to pull out of the W.H.O. entirely, pushing for the House Foreign Affairs Committee to take up two bills that would defund and withdraw America from the organisation earlier this week. Schools in the southern Chinese province of Guangdong suspended classes on Thursday due to an influenza outbreak, an uncomfortable reminder of the punishing lockdowns that were used across the country during the Wuhan coronavirus pandemic. https://t.co/0PqEcxjj3m Breitbart News (@BreitbartNews) April 10, 2023 Read more at: Breitbart.com (Natural News) Covid showed us how corrupt the medical establishment has become not only in America but worldwide. Doctors know where their bread is buttered and rarely speak out of school or provide advice based on their own independent research. They will support almost any government health narrative if thats what it takes to make sure the money continues to flow, even if it means violating their oath to do no harm. (Article republished from LeoHohmann.com) Next in line for top honors in terms of corruption, after the biomedical-security complex, is the media. People say the truth will always prevail, and I agree. But this is a lesson that governments never seem to learn, especially when they have a corrupt media willing to cover for their lies. We see the government and media colluding to deceive the masses on vaccines (theyre safe and effective, safe and effective, safe and effective). We see them colluding on the phony climate change narrative, where to save the planet youve got to grow less food, exchange real meat for fake, eat bugs, curtail freedom of movement, digitize humanity and convert all power generation to the electric grid, which is already overtaxed. We see it with so-called gun violence blame the tool not the evil people who misuse the tool. And the list goes on. But nowhere has the government-media collusion to deceive been going on longer than when it comes to the deliberate poisoning of Americas municipal drinking water. They poison it right at the source, then tell you that its good for you. It builds strong teeth! The final report of an exhaustive six-year study of fluoride neurotoxicity was blocked from public release by Biden appointee Dr. Richard Rachel Levine at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in May 2022, according to the Fluoride Action Network. Dr. Richard Rachel Levine The exhaustive study, conducted by the National Toxicology Program (NTP), included incontrovertible evidence that fluoride hinders the development of the brain in children who consume it at levels present in most public water systems. But under an agreement reached in an ongoing lawsuit against the EPA, the report was finally made public on March 15 of this year with a table of contents. Included were comments from external peer-reviewers and internal HHS departments, along with responses from the National Toxicology Program. The review considered all human studies of fluorides effect on the developing brain. Its conclusion confirmed and strengthened the findings from two earlier drafts released in 2019 and 2020. External peer-reviewers all agreed with the conclusion that prenatal and early life fluoride exposures can reduce IQ. The report was issued in two parts, a monograph and a meta-analysis. The meta-analysis found that 52 of 55 studies found lower IQ with higher fluoride exposures, demonstrating remarkable consistency. Of the 19 studies rated higher quality, 18 found lowering of IQ. The meta-analysis could not detect any safe exposure, including at levels common from drinking fluoridated water. Documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act show government agencies that promote fluoridation, most allied with dental interests, have tried to water down the report, according to a release by Fluoride Action Network. In the excerpt from the March 15 press release below, the Fluoride Action Network specifically names Rachel Levine, a gender-confused man, as the government official who tried to block the truth from coming out on the havoc fluoride continues to wreak on childrens brains. It took a lawsuit to force this information from the secret files of the government. The release states: When the NTP held firm, these agencies got HHS Assistant Administrator Rachel Levine to block its release. Only one historical example exists of an NTP report being blocked from release, a report on the carcinogenicity of asbestos-contaminated talc. Talc industry groups conducted an aggressive lobbying campaign, enlisting friendly congresspeople to intervene. FAN was able to force todays release of the NTP report by using leverage from the ongoing lawsuit against the EPA. Fluoridation defenders have falsely claimed draft versions of the report had been rejected by a National Academies committee. In fact, the committee recommended that NTP clarify their methods and reasoning for reaching their conclusions because the issue was considered so contentious. The NTP has done that in the report released today. There is now little question that a large body of scientific evidence supports a conclusion that fluoride can lower childs IQ, including at exposure levels from fluoridated water. With the release of this report, dental interests may have to rethink their denial of the evidence that fluoridation can reduce childrens IQ. Dentists have for decades pressured their customers to use fluoridated toothpaste while lobbying for fluoridated drinking water, despite reams of evidence showing this is a toxic chemical that provides little if any benefit to dental health. Most common water filters do not remove fluoride and the ones that do are more expensive, but worth the money, especially if you have children under your care. So, where does fluoride come from, anyway? Its an industrial-waste byproduct of the mining industry, explains Frank Zelko, in an article for the Ohio State University website Origins. Zelko writes: Highly toxic hydrogen fluoride and silicon tetrafluoride gases are by-products of fertilizer production. Prior to the 1970s, these pollutants were vented into the atmosphere and gave central Florida some of the most noxious air pollution in the country. During the 1960s, however, complaints by farmers and ranchers eventually forced reluctant manufacturers to invest in pollution abatement scrubbers that converted toxic vapors into fluorosilicic acid (FSA), a dangerous but more containable liquid waste. Zelko further explains that the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) cautions that FSA, an inorganic fluoride compound, has dire health consequences for any worker that comes into contact with it. Breathing its fumes causes severe lung damage or death and an accidental splash on bare skin will lead to burning and excruciating pain. Fortunately, it can be contained in high-density cross-linked polyethylene storage tanks. It is in such tanks, Zelko notes, that fluorosilicic acid has for the past half century been transported from Florida fertilizer factories to water reservoirs throughout the United States. Once there, it is drip fed into drinking water. This is a practice that the American Dental Association and numerous scientists and public health officials describe as the precise adjustment of the existing naturally occurring fluoride levels in drinking water to an optimal fluoride level for the prevention of dental decay. The Fluoride Action Network has a fact sheet on the toxicity of this chemical and the long fight to get it removed from public drinking water systems. Please share the fact sheet, and this article, with all your friends and family. Read more at: LeoHohmann.com (Natural News) The government of the Russian Federation claims to have found evidence that the United States government is conducting tests at a U.S.-run bio laboratory in Ukraine on avian flu pathogens with a lethality rate of up to 40 percent in humans. Documents seized from a veterinary laboratory of the Biosphere Reserve in the Askania Nova, Kherson region of Ukraine confirm the involvement of the Kharkov Institute of Veterinary Medicine in the work of UP-8 & P-444 Projects and preparations for the Flu-Fly-Way project, tweeted the Russian Embassy of the United States see the below images of said documents: ??@mod_russia: Documents seized in the veterinary laboratory of the Biosphere Reserve in Askania Nova, Kherson region, confirm the involvement of the Kharkov Institute of Veterinary Medicine in the work of ?? UP-8 & P-444 Projects and preparations for the Flu-Fly-Way project. pic.twitter.com/BoB4yB7Y8N Russian Embassy in USA ?? (@RusEmbUSA) May 26, 2023 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia also tweeted about the discovery, which reveals evidence of dangerous pathogenic research taking place in Ukraine at the behest of the United States government, which is planting BSL-4 biolabs all around the world for the purpose of developing biological weapons to commit crimes against humanity. ?? Read in full briefing by @mod_russia on US military-biological activity. ?? Evidence of the research of dangerous pathogens in Ukraine ?? Development of biological weapons by the US ?? Establishment of BSL-4 biolabs abroad by the US ? https://t.co/ocZoPmxSB4 pic.twitter.com/kDngcI1uix MFA Russia ?? (@mfa_russia) May 26, 2023 (Related: Russia also says that the U.S. government is working on a universal GMO bioweapon at Ukrainian biolabs to inflict mass death upon humans, animals, and food crops.) Ukrainian government tried to bribe biolab workers into destroying all evidence of bioweapons research A major component of Russias special military operation in Ukraine involves unearthing the truth about these Pentagon-run biolabs, which lying politicians like Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) continue to claim are non-existent. Romney even accused former Sen. Tulsi Gabbard of treason merely for talking about them publicly. Romney is a liar, though, because we now know these biolabs exist. Not only that, they are an existential threat to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness a threat that Russia is uncovering and exposing, which explains why the U.S. political and media establishments never have anything good to say about Russia. during the special military operation, documentary evidence was obtained confirming that employees of the Biosphere Reserve in Askania Nova, Kherson region, were studying the migration routes of migratory birds and selecting and transferring biological material abroad, reports explain. The task force of the Russian Ministry of Defense together with officers of the Federal Security Service and Rosselkhoznadzor have confirmed the collection and certification of avian influenza virus strains with a high potential for epidemic spread and the ability to cross the species barrier, particularly the H5N8 strain, whose lethality in human transmission can reach 40 percent. Remember that 1 percent of new coronavirus infections result in death. Those running the lab attempted to sabotage and destroy its contents to avoid Russia discovering and reporting on them, but these efforts were a failure as specialists from the 48th Central Research Institute of the Russian Ministry of Defense found traces of genetic material of not only highly pathogenic avian influenza but also Newcastle disease virus and avuloviruses. We also know that the Volodymyr Zelensky regime tried to pay off the biolab workers to destroy said evidence, which they were unsuccessful at doing before Russia found it and linked it to the American UP-8 and P-444 Projects and preparations for its Flu-Fly-Way project. Will Russia be successful in rooting the Pentagon and other bioterrorists out of Ukraine? Learn more at RussiaReport.news. Sources include: TheGatewayPundit.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) A recent survey revealed that more than a quarter of Canadians believe that the homeless and poor should be eligible for state-sanctioned deaths. According to them, being impoverished or unhoused is a good enough reason for a doctor to inject somebody with a deadly cocktail of drugs. The survey conducted by the Canadian polling firm Research Co. found that 27 percent said Medical Aid in Dying (MAID), the countrys end-of-life program, should be available to those in poverty, while 28 percent said the same for the countrys roughly 30,000 homeless people. Moreover, a higher percentage of the 1,000 adult respondents said that assisted suicide should also be made available to those with disabilities, mental illnesses or those who cannot receive medical treatment. A whopping 43 percent even said the mentally ill should be allowed to get a doctors help in ending their lives. Fifty percent also believe that those with disabilities should also be able to receive MAID. Canada has been dubbed as the home to the most permissive assisted suicide program, which was launched in 2016. Records show that more than 10,000 people ended their lives under the scheme in recent years. As the countrys government officials ponder on whether the assisted suicide program should be extended to children and the mentally ill, the survey found that nearly 75 percent of Canadians believe the country has the right policies in place for letting people seek medical assistance in dying. (Related: Canada expands euthanasia mercy killing to ensnare societys most vulnerable, including children.) Many Canadians support euthanasia and the campaign group Dying With Dignity pointed out that the procedures are driven by compassion, an end to suffering and discrimination and desire for personal autonomy. However, experts say that regulations lack necessary safeguards, devalue the lives of disabled people and prompt doctors and health workers to suggest the procedure to those who might not otherwise consider it. One-third of Canadians are fine with prescribing assisted suicide for homelessness. Shameful, Lord David Alton, a British peer, tweeted. Homeless people need a roof over their heads, not a lethal injection. End homelessness, not the lives of the homeless. We said we were going to have safeguards and guardrails, but the next government can simply open it up further by making a decision and thats exactly whats happening, said Alex Schadenberg, executive director of the Euthanasia Prevention Coalition. Euthanasia is legal in Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand and Spain, as well as in several states in Australia. It is available to children in the Netherlands and Belgium. More and more Canadians avail of MAID program According to David Brooks, contributing writer at the Atlantic, MAID was originally conceived reasonably well-defined. Assisted suicide will only be granted to patients with serious illness or disability; an advanced state of decline that could not be reversed; with unbearable physical or mental suffering; and someone who is at the point where natural death had become reasonably foreseeable. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau even promised that the 2016 legislation would never endanger those who are psychologically vulnerable and not near death. This simply isnt something that ends up happening, he said, but now the nation seems to be moving toward that road. Within a few years, Canada went from being a country that banned assisted suicide to one of the loosest regimes in the world, Brooks highlighted in the article, adding that the number of Canadians dying by physician-assisted suicide ballooned over the years. There were more than 10,000 assisted suicides in 2021, which is one in 30 of all Canadian deaths. The great majority of people dying this way were elderly and near death, but those who seek assisted suicide tend to get it. In the same year, only four percent of those who filed written applications were deemed not eligible for the program. If autonomy is your highest value, these trends are not tragic; theyre welcome. Death is no longer the involuntary, degrading end of life; it can be a glorious act of self-expression, Brooks said. On the other side of the coin, the complex moral issues surrounding the end of life have drifted out of sight. Decisions tend to be made within a bureaucratic context, where utilitarian considerations can come to dominate the foreground. Visit Euthanasia.news to read more about Canadas doctor-assisted death industry. Watch the video below that talks about a man applying for MAID as he was about to be ejected from his home in Canada. This video is from the Red Voice Media channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Killing children: Canadian Paeditric Society proposes legalizing medical assistance in dying (assisted suicide) for children. OFFING THE POOR: Canadian man facing homelessness applies for medically assisted death. Aussie scientist promotes ASSISTED SUICIDE in Scotland using DIY death pods. KILLING THE HELPLESS: Canada set to legalize euthanasia for mentally ill patients. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk ResearchCo.ca TheAtlantic.com Brighteon.com President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Dear Mr. President, I cordially congratulate Your Excellency and the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of Azerbaijans Independence Day. Azerbaijan takes special place in the neighborly policy of the Islamic Republic of ?ran. Common history and unbreakable religious and cultural bonds between Muslim peoples of our countries are considered as a valuable contribution to the development of relations between the two countries. The Islamic Republic of Iran has always fully supported Azerbaijans sovereignty and territorial integrity in this context. Taking into consideration the vast potential of our countries, I express my hope that we will witness the further enhancement of our bilateral cooperation and relations in line with mutual interests of our peoples. May Almighty Allah grant you robust health and successes and the people of Azerbaijan dignity and good days. Sincerely, Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi President of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Natural News) Malicious bots powered by artificial intelligence (AI) have been mimicking human behavior to commit cybercrime and send spam messages over the last 10 years, according to a report. The 2023 Bad Bot Report released by California-based cybersecurity company Imperva noted that in 2022, 47.4 percent of all internet traffic came from bots rather than humans. In contrast, internet traffic from humans constituted 52.6 percent of the total traffic in 2022 a 5.1 percent decrease from the previous year. Bad bots contributed to 30.2 percent of total internet traffic in 2022, up 2.5 percent from the previous year. Good bots made up 17.3 percent of total internet traffic for that year, up 2.7 percent from 2021. While their name might suggest that they are no cause for concern, these good bots can mean trouble too, Imperva noted. They can skew web and marketing analytics, making it extremely difficult for organizations to make informed business decisions. The study also found that a staggering 66.6 percent of all internet traffic is generated by bots, sending junk emails and stealing data with the help of AI technology. A reported 70 percent rise in data breaches corresponded to a 40 percent increase in account takeover attacks, all powered by AI. Bots have evolved rapidly since 2013. But with the advent of generative AI, the technology will evolve at an even greater, more concerning pace over the next 10 years, said Karl Triebes, Imperva senior vice president. Cyber criminals will increase their focus on attacking application business logic with sophisticated automation. As a result, the business disruption and financial impact associated with bad bots will become even more significant in the coming years. AI-powered bots lean Left Given that ChatGPT and its advanced version GPT-4 can generate human-like text in response to a given prompt, cyber criminals could tap them as superpowers to do their nefarious activities. Moreover, AI bots appear to be biased even though they were originally programmed to not have certain leanings. In one such instance, research scientist David Rozado pointed out that OpenAI the company behind ChatGPT has an automated content moderation system designed to flag hateful speech. However, he found that this system treats speech differently depending on which demographic groups are targeted by hateful speech. Rozado fed various prompts to ChatGPT involving negative adjectives ascribed to various demographic groups based on race, gender, religion and other markers. He discovered that the software favors some demographic groups over others. According to the researcher, the software was far more likely to flag negative comments about Democrats compared to those about Republicans, and was more likely to allow hateful comments about conservatives than liberals. The ratings partially resemble left-leaning political orientation hierarchies of perceived vulnerability, he noted. Negative comments about women were more likely be flagged than those about men. Negative remarks about people who are disabled, gay, transgender, Asian, black or Muslim had a higher chance of being flagged compared to those aimed at Christians, Mormons, thin people and various other groups. Wealthy people, Republicans, upper-middle and middle-class people and university graduates landed at the bottom of the list. Visit Robots.news for more on the dangers of AI technology. Watch this episode of Health Ranger Report as the Health Ranger Mike Adams talks about how the globalists are planning to replace human labor with AI systems. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: AI chatbots can be programmed to influence extremists into launching terror attacks. AI can influence peoples decisions in life-or-death situations. AI firm nabs 30 billion online photos and sends them to law enforcement to prosecute Americans. Generative AI could replace up to 300 million mostly white-collar jobs worldwide. IBM to replace 8,000 workers with AI automation; no more new hires for roles that can be filled by AI. Sources include: DailyStar.co.uk Imperva.com DailyCaller.com Brighteon.com (Natural News) David Antonioli, CEO of the climate-action nonprofit group Verra, has announced that he will be stepping down from his position in June though he plans to stay on board with the company in a reduced senior advisory role. Antonioli will be replaced by the organizations current president, Judith Simon, the reason being that a recent investigation exposed Verra and its operations as fraudulent. It turns out that about 90 percent of Verras so-called carbon credits are worthless, providing no measurable impact on, or benefit to the environment. In his resignation announcement on LinkedIn, Antonioli failed to mention this important little detail, instead focusing on the alleged positives of his involvement with the company. I am immensely proud of what Verra has accomplished and of the incredible team that has made it the worlds leading standard-setter for climate action and sustainable development, Antonioli wrote in a post. (Related: The worlds leading seller of carbon credits has also been exposed as a scam.) Everything related to climate change, carbon credits, and the like is a SCAM It turns out that Antoniolis work at Verra was useless and scam-ridden, providing virtually nothing in the way of actual carbon reductions. The phantom credits he and his company provide are nothing but a money-making scam, in essence. Said carbon credits are purchased by the likes of Disney, Shell, and Gucci to help improve their ESG (environment, social, and governance) scores, funneling money into Antoniolis bank account. Now, Simons bank account will be getting the cream of the crop instead, while Antonioli will occupy a quieter role at the company. The Guardian, in conjunction with the German newspaper Die Zeit, conducted the investigation that exposed Verras work as fraudulent. The two media outlets discovered that only a small fraction of Verras rainforest projects have done anything to help stop deforestation around the world, deforestation being one of the things that climate fanatics claim is causing global warming. The investigation further round that the alleged threats to the worlds rainforest cited by Verra as requiring carbon credits to offset were overestimated by about 400 percent this according to a 2022 study out of the University of Cambridge. Not only that, but many of the projects initiated by Verra were, and still are, riddled with human rights abuses, including forced evictions and the destruction of private homes and property. In response to the investigative report that was produced by The Guardian and Die Zeit, Verra claimed that it is misleading because it failed to acknowledge the inconsistencies between the three studies that it draws one, presenting instead a distorted picture of consensus. Verras experts found, for example, that of the 12 projects in Brazil assessed by both groups, one Thales West et al., the study concluded that deforestation or degradation was reduced in 33 percent of projects, while the Cambridge study found that deforestation was lower in 92 percent and forest degradation in 75 percent of projects, the company added in a statement. In response to this, Thales West, one of the academics that contributed to the investigative report, explained that while working as an auditor on Verras projects in the Brazilian Amazon, he discovered that the companys predictions about deforestation cannot be trusted. The evidence from the analysis not just the synthetic controls suggests we cannot trust Verra, West said. I want this system to work to protect rainforests. For that to happen, we need to acknowledge the scale of problems with the current system. Erin Sills, a professor at the Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources at North Carolina State University, also commented on the Cambridge study cited in the investigative report, calling its findings disappointing and scary. The latest news about the green energy and climate change scam can be found at GreenTyranny.news. Sources include: TheNewAmerican.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) Podcaster Gary Binford told Ann Vandersteel that the ongoing destruction of the world is rooted in the idea of getting rid of God. What people have to understand is the destruction of the world is predicated on getting rid of God. Youll notice nobody talks about getting rid of anything that has to do with anybody except for Jesus Christ, he said during an episode of the Brighteon.TV program Right Now with Ann Vandersteel. This whole thing is aimed at God. It always has been aimed at God because either people are going to follow a benevolent God and look to Him for their sustenance or look to government. But you cant look for both. Vandersteel agreed, noting that the American people are watching the total meltdown of America. This, she added, was all organized by powerful and influential people. The co-chair of the Zelenko Freedom Foundation lamented that this total urban and familial decay across the country was the result of Americans allowing what the Founding Fathers established 250 years ago to collapse. Binford said: You have evil, and that evil since at least Karl Marx in the 1800s has been in the form of communism, Marxism, socialism, progressivism, whatever you want to call it. And its just a matter of how long a country can survive. According to the host of United Patriots Uprising, Marx and Italian communist Antonio Gramsci wanted to get rid of God, Christianity and Western culture. These leftist ideas entered America through Columbia University in 1935 and have since taken root in in the colleges. Later, Saul Alinskys Rules for Radicals established the way how these ideologies can be put in action to get rid of God. In 1958, former federal agent W. Cleon Skousen revealed that the communists are trying to take over America. He mentioned that the goal of the communists was to get control of the schools, promote pornography, easy divorce and social religion; get rid of God; get control of the media and motion pictures; and steer everything toward socialism. (Related: Parents take action against Westport, Ct., school board for indoctrinating their children into Marxism.) Once you take God out of your country, youre on your way down Binford warned. Because without the moral compass of truth, you are not going to know what is truth and truth from error. Cultural Marxism changing peoples concepts of what is right and wrong The likes of Gramsci and Herbert Marcuse took the Marxist ideology from founder Karl Marx and ran with it. The community organizing edict put forth by Alinsky from his 1971 book Rules for Radicals is playing out daily before our very eyes, Binford wrote in a July 2020 piece for the Conservative Business Journal. He told Vandersteel that Cultural Marxism changes what people consider right and wrong through postmodernism, wokeness and cancel culture. Binford lamented that America is in this situation and was brought to this stage through a concerted effort lasting for more than 100 years. Ultimately, this effort is about getting rid of the truth and replacing it with what exactly the communists say is truth. According to Binford, justice has become social justice and religion has become multicultural religion. To illustrate the latter, Binford said the concept of there is only one God has become have as many gods as you want. Moreover, he blasted the concept of a person having many genders as lunacy. Ultimately, Binford pointed out that the communists have taken control of the media, academia and evangelical church thanks to factions working on their side. There used to be a time when people would agree to disagree on some issues. However, Binford said that was a thing of the past. Follow Communism.news for more news about communism in America. Watch the May 23 episode of Right Now with Ann Vandersteel below. Right Now with Ann Vandersteel airs weekdays at 8-8:30 p.m. on Brighteon.TV. More related stories: Investigative reporter Joshua Philipp tells Alex Newman: The whole world is living under some form of Marxism. Jeff Nyquist tells Dr. Steve Hotze: Communism is a science of how to take power and carry out a revolution Brighteon.TV. ChiComs have infiltrated Canadas federal government for 30 YEARS, reveals retired spy. Sources include: Brighteon.com ConservativeBusinessJournal.com (Natural News) New York City (NYC) has become a hotbed for shoplifting. The city has transformed into a haven for those inclined toward retail theft, and the local government cant stop them. According to an analysis of police data by the New York Post, reported shoplifting incidents reached the highest levels for the second consecutive year in 2022. The number of complaints related to shoplifting increased to over 63,000 last year, marking a 45 percent upsurge compared to approximately 45,000 incidents in 2021 and a staggering jump of nearly 275 percent compared to the mid-2000s. The situation has become a significant concern for retailers as the frequency of theft continues to rise uncontrollably, leading to frustration and a sense of helplessness among store employees because they cant stop them. Shoplifting reports have steadily risen since 2006, but the problem has escalated recently. Although there was a brief drop in theft figures in 2019, just before the pandemic, the numbers returned to their upward trend after the pandemic. In 2021, there were a record-breaking 43,675 reports of shoplifting, thefts and robberies, according to the NYPD data. These figures surged even higher last year, with 63,699 complaints. Certain areas of the city have been particularly hard-hit by shoplifting incidents. For instance, in the NYPDs 1st Precinct, shoplifting incidents nearly doubled from 2,103 to 4,061 in 2022. Similarly, in the East Villages 9th Precinct, retail thefts increased by over 150 percent from 579 to 1,467. The numbers have left law enforcement officials like Chris Hermann disturbed, acknowledging that theres no quick fix to something like this. Frustrated and vulnerable storeowners have resorted to seeking help through meetings with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, hoping for effective measures to combat this crisis. The anxiety of being susceptible to theft becomes a daily reality for these business owners, who realize that stores have become easy targets for those with ill intentions. Major retailers such as Target and Duane Reade have been severely affected, experiencing hundreds or even thousands of incidents at their locations. Unfortunately, store personnel often find themselves powerless, forced to allow shoplifters to escape due to fear of repercussions or the absence of timely police intervention. (Related: Big-box stores closing down due to rising RETAIL THEFT.) Even Democratic Mayor Eric Adams could not fulfill his promise of assistance to business owners. Back in December, he organized a citywide summit to address the issue of retail theft, involving district attorneys, the state Attorney General, top NYPD officials and business groups to find long-lasting solutions. But Adams abruptly left after 20 minutes, leaving participants to work toward resolutions independently. New Yorkers mock odd and completely useless anti-shoplifting plans After several months of organizing the unsuccessful citywide summit, Adams and his office issued a lackluster plan on May 20 to address the rampant shoplifting incidents in NYC. But his odd and completely useless anti-shoplifting plans cost a lot of money and dont even come close at resolving the problem. Twitter users have expressed their dismay toward Adams and his recent response to the citys increasing shoplifting problem. The Crackdown On Shoplifting Plan For NYC includes several action steps that appear lenient on consequences and neglectful in nature. The proposed measures involve offering intervention programs instead of prosecution for first-time offenders, providing de-escalation training for retail employees, establishing neighborhood retail watch groups to share theft information, and installing store kiosks to connect potential thieves with social services programs. However, shoplifters in NYC are not desperate individuals stealing basic necessities to survive. Instead, they are well-coordinated gangs that steal valuable merchandise for profit. Even if they consume what they steal, it is more for indulgence rather than out of dire need. In other words, all of this is organized crime in action. Thus, implementing small police kiosks offering social services or intervention programs will not bring about significant changes. These initiatives may be overshadowed by the prevalence of social service advertisements in the crime-ridden NYC subway. The action points of the plan were heavily criticized by advocates against crime, and many Twitter users dismissed it outright. Conservative libertarian thinker Tom Woods labeled the plan released by Adams as a parody of what a mayor in a blue city would propose. Some users questioned the seriousness of the people behind the plan, expressing concerns that NYC might follow the path of San Francisco if this approach is implemented. One user labeled the program stupid, claiming it would definitely encourage more shoplifting. (Natural News) Robert F. Kennedy Jr., chairman and founder of the Childrens Health Defense (CHD), urged the public to sign a petition against the World Health Organizations (WHO) impending power grab via the amendment of International Health Regulations (IHR) and the intimately related Pandemic Treaty, which aims to take over the power and dominion on all matters of health over and above the sovereignty of its 194 member states. Despite catastrophic public health failures during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the WHO has been negotiating for the new rules for dealing with pandemics with a target date of May 2024 for a legally binding agreement to be adopted by the United Nations (UN) member countries. The new pact is a priority for WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who called it a generational commitment that we will not go back to the old cycle of panic and neglect. The agency is considering 300 amendments to IHR 2005. The WHO aims to implement changes to the IHR through confidential negotiations by the largely anonymous Working Group on Amendments to the International Health Regulations. The IHR changes would grant Ghebreyesus the authority to control which countermeasures the world would be allowed to utilize during a pandemic. Among the proposed changes are the transfer of public health emergency powers from our elected leaders to the WHO, as well as the authority to declare an emergency at will and the removal of human rights protections that have always been included in the IHR. Giving the WHO these powers will inevitably result in more emergency declarations and a reoccurrence of the many failures witnessed during the WHOs management of COVID-19, the CHD website said. Peter Koenig, a geopolitical analyst and a former senior economist at the World Bank and WHO, wrote in a Global Research article that these tyrannical efforts were orchestrated by the government, Big Tech and Big Pharma and propagated by mainstream media. Kennedys CHDs campaign #TheGreatFreeset provides an opportunity to resist the centralization of power by international organizations like the WHO and the World Economic Forums initiative known as the Great Reset. It is a chance to disrupt the WHOs ongoing plans for global consolidation of power. The world we will leave our children depends on us pushing back on the WHO global governance agenda. We cannot overstate the importance of resisting this ultimate consolidation of power into a few sinister hands who do not have our health and best interests at heart, the campaign description read. (Related: The most dangerous international treaty ever proposed.) CHD points out important concerns in the IHR amendment proposal The nonprofit activist group pointed out the critical issues in the IHR amendment proposal. Under the proposal, all member countries should develop digital vaccine passports that would be used to restrict access and travel as the WHO sees fit. The proposal would allow the WHO director-general to declare an emergency at his will. Suppression of free speech is also included in the proposal as surveillance of anything deemed as misinformation and disinformation would be required. There would be extreme lockdown measures, including the quarantine of suspect travelers, preferably in facilities away from the point of entry, also known as quarantine camps that were seen during the COVID-19 pandemic in China and elsewhere. Moreover, nations would be required to use certain medications while prohibiting the use of others during emergencies. It would also give WHO power to commandeer medical supplies in any country; transfer them to other countries; and evade laws on intellectual property. Most importantly, CHD emphasized that the proposal would remove the existing IHR wording granting full respect for the dignity, human rights and fundamental freedoms of persons. The WHO is also actively attempting to eliminate the provision dignity, human rights and fundamental freedoms. The WHO is also working on the Pandemic Treaty, which is expected to be open for signatures during the 77th World Health Assembly in May 2024. Watch the video below where Brannon Howse talks about the WHO amendments being proposed to steal Americas sovereignty. This video is from the Worldview Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Twelve of Bidens sovereignty amendments to WHOs International Health Treaty tabled but they could return. Sign this petition to stop the WHO from destroying U.S. sovereignty in times of health emergencies. World Health Organization positioning to become global health dictator while masses are distracted with lab leaks. World Health Organization continues to put mad scientists in charge of global health, promoting medical fascism. WHO whistleblower: Globalist puppets seek full control over humanity through deployment of COVID-19 pandemic treaty. Sources include: Kennedy24.com GlobalResearch.ca DailyMail.co.uk JapanToday.com ChildrensHealthDefense.org Brighteon.com (Natural News) The Republican-controlled Texas House of Representatives overwhelmingly voted to impeach state Attorney General Ken Paxton on Saturday, leaving former President Donald Trump angry and vowing to fight them over the issue. A significant majority of over 81 percent of the members voted in favor of impeaching Paxton on the 20 articles that were filed by the House General Investigations Committee. The final vote tally was 121 in favor (ayes), 23 against (nays), with two members present but not voting, and three abstentions, Breitbart News reported. The debate which lasted nearly four hours centered mostly around the process that some members believed was rushed and did not provide due process. Members of the General Investigations Committee laid out the facts they believe support the matter moving forward to a trial in the Texas Senate, the outlets report continued. Today is a very grim and difficult day for this House and for the state of Texas, House General Investigations Committee member David Spiller (R-Jacksboro) said on the House floor. But that said, most of the objections were not about whether Paxton was innocent of the allegations. Rather, they were about the process. This process is indefensible, Representative John Smithee, (R-Amarillo) said on the floor of the House. It concerns me a lot because today it could be General Paxton, tomorrow it could be you and the next day it could be me. Paxton tweeted to his supporters after the vote. I am beyond grateful to have the support of millions of Texans who recognize that what we just witnessed is illegal, unethical, and profoundly unjust. I look forward to a quick resolution in the Texas Senate, where I have full confidence the process will be fair and just, he said in a post containing a screenshot of his full statement. I am beyond grateful to have the support of millions of Texans who recognize that what we just witnessed is illegal, unethical, and profoundly unjust. I look forward to a quick resolution in the Texas Senate, where I have full confidence the process will be fair and just. pic.twitter.com/fEiAroA2DW Attorney General Ken Paxton (@KenPaxtonTX) May 27, 2023 Republican Speaker Dade Phelan and fellow Republicans joined with Democrats to temporarily remove the AG from office on accusations of bribery, obstruction of justice, and abuse of public trust, The Epoch Times reported. The vote in favor of impeachment did not sit well with former President Trump, himself the victim of two phony impeachments. Free Ken Paxton, let them wait for the next elections, Trump wrote after the impeachment vote was taken. Trump also lashed out at GOP Gov. Greg Abbott, whom he considered an ally, for remaining silent about the events taking place with Paxton. MISSING IN ACTION! Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. Where is the Governor of Texas on his Attorney Generals Impeachment? Earlier, before the impeachment vote, Trump posted, The RINO Speaker of the House of Texas, Dade Phelan, who is barely a Republican at all and failed the test on voter integrity, wants to impeach one of the most hard-working and effective Attorney Generals in the United States, Ken Paxton, who just won reelection with a large number of American Patriots strongly voting for him. He added: Hopefully Republicans in the Texas House will agree that this is a very unfair process that should not be allowed to happen or proceedI will fight you if it does. Republicans hold a 19-12 majority in the state Senate, meaning nine GOP members would have to join all Democrats to convict Paxton and permanently remove him from office. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) also blasted the impeachment vote against Paxton. What is happening to @KenPaxtonTX is a travesty, Cruz tweeted before the proceedings, blaming the Austin swamp for attempting to sideline one of the Biden administrations staunchest and most successful opponents. No attorney general has battled the abuses of the Biden admin more ferociouslyand more effectivelythan has Paxton, Cruz said in a Twitter post. Sources include: TruthSocial.com TheEpochTimes.com Breitbart.com Target was already facing calls for a boycott over tuck-friendly bathing suits and chest binders for transgender children. Then it was revealed that they are selling clothing items from a creepy satanic transgender designer that promotes drugs and violence. (Natural News) (Article by Jim Hoft republished from TheGatewayPundit.com) The brand in question, Abprallen, was created by a biological woman who identifies as a man and uses the name Erik Callen. Target is selling Abprallen We Belong Everywhere messenger bags, Too Queer For Here messenger bags, and Cure Transphobia, Not Trans People sweatshirts. All items were designed for all bodies, regardless of gender identity and presentation, Target said in the description for the items. We added design features to help make the fit customizable for you. Our hope is for all guests to find clothing that makes them feel comfortable and affirmed in their identity. We understand that fit is incredibly important and will continue to evolve and improve on fit needs for the LGBTQIA+ Community. Target credits the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network for helping place these items on their shelves. Read: Dr. Peter McCullough On The Holy Grail Of COVID-19 Vaccine Detoxification GLSEN leads the movement in creating affirming, accessible and anti-racist spaces for LGBTQIA+ students, Targets descriptions on the Abprallen items reads. We are proud of 10+ years of collaboration with GLSEN and continue to support their mission. The Gateway Pundit reported last week that retail giant Target has partnered with GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network), a group that advocates policies that keep parents unaware of their childs in-school gender transition, providing sexually explicit books to schools, and pushing gender ideology throughout public school curricula. According to the report, GLSEN is a radical education group leading efforts to create inclusive and anti-racist environments for LGBTQIA+ students. On Sunday The Daily Mail revealed that Targets Vice President of Brand Management is also the treasurer and board member of GLSEN. This explains all of the tuckwear for little children. Targets Vice President of Brand Management has been revealed as treasurer and board member of LGBTQI+ charity that received $2.1 million in funding from Target. The charity which received the multi-million dollar donation, GLSEN, encourages teachers to hide the gender pic.twitter.com/rLtA0RfFHa Oli London (@OliLondonTV) May 30, 2023 FOX News reported: Carlos Saavedra is a vice president of brand marketing at Target and a treasurer at GLSEN. GLSEN focuses on getting districts to adopt policies that will keep parents in the dark on their childs in-school gender transition, providing sexually explicit books to schools for free, and integrating gender ideology at all levels of curriculum in public schools. Target and Saavedra did not immediately respond to a request for comment. GLSEN leads the movement in creating affirming and anti-racist spaces for LGBTQIA+ students. We are proud of 10+ years of collaboration with GLSEN and continue to support their mission, Target said. The retail giant provides annual donations to GLSEN, which has amounted to at least $2.1 million. The Gateway Pundit has been reporting on GLSEN for years. Barack Obama even had a GLSEN founder in a prominent position in his administration. Read more at: TheGatewayPundit.com (Natural News) A whistleblower with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) who disclosed how the Department of Justice (DOJ) delayed the tax investigation on Hunter Biden has testified before Congress. According to the Daily Mail, IRS Supervisory Special Agent Gary Shapley testified before the House Committee on Ways and Means (WMC) on May 26 for six hours. His testimony before the Republican-led committee followed his cancellation of an earlier testimony with the Senate Committee on Finance, which is led by Democratic lawmakers. The WMC did not disclose any details of the testimony due to the sensitivity of whistleblower allegations. Meanwhile, a member of Shapleys legal team said both sides had equal opportunity to ask whatever questions they wanted and that their client answered all of the committee members questions. Shapleys decision to cancel his testimony before the upper chamber followed a meeting involving his lawyer, former prosecutor Mark Lytle, and representatives of the Senate committee. According to the same member of the IRS agents legal team, they believed Shapley had taken issue with some of the standard meeting processes to protect taxpayer information. Nevertheless, they added that they would try to reschedule in the future. Brighteon.TV host Pete Santilli touched on Shapleys testimony on the May 25 edition of his program The Pete Santilli Show. During that show, he played footage of an interview between Shapley and CBS News journalist Jim Axelrod. The IRS whistleblower spoke about the DOJs handling of the presidential sons case for the first time. Shapley first took over the high-profile investigation back in January 2020, but immediately noticed how the Justice Department irregularly handled the probe. Every deviation from the normal processes seemed to always benefit the presidential son each and every time. Shapley eventually decided to blow the whistle, having had enough after a heated meeting with federal prosecutors back in October 2022. It just got to that point where that switch was turned on, and I just couldnt silence my conscience anymore, he said in the interview. I dont want to do any of this. I took an oath of office and when I saw the egregiousness of some of these things, it no longer became a choice for me. Its not something that I want to do. Its something that I feel like I have to do. Moreover, Shapley alleged that he and his team were removed from the Hunter Biden investigation as a form of retaliation for him speaking out. However, many disputed Shapleys claims including former federal agent Peter Strzok of Russiagate fame. Santilli: AG Merrick Garland involved in 1995 OKC bombing Santilli also told program co-host Deb Jordan that after 28 years, the truth about the Oklahoma City bombing can finally be revealed. The mastermind behind the bombing is the same person preventing the presidential sons tax crimes from being exposed no other than Attorney General Merrick Garland. (Related: AG Merrick Garland exposed as the corrupt Biden official who tried to sweep Hunter Bidens tax crimes under the rug.) There are 147 boxes of documentation that show Garland was involved in the gut and covering up the governments involvement and the Oklahoma City bombing. These are facts, Santilli remarked, adding that he has articles of evidence in safe storage. Anti-government extremist Timothy McVeigh parked a rented truck loaded with ammonium nitrate and diesel outside the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma on April 19, 1995. The truck exploded at 9:02 a.m. on that day, destroying the building and killing 168 people. Shortly after the bombing, McVeigh was pulled over for an unrelated offense and taken into custody. Authorities identified the rear axle of the truck he had used and traced it back to the rental location where employees described the suspect. McVeigh and his accomplice Terry Nichols were both convicted within days, with the latter receiving a life sentence for his role. McVeigh was later executed at the Terre Haute federal prison in Indiana on June 2001 the first federal execution since 1963. Investigators have concluded, based on the legal boxes filled with court documents that show that Garland was single-handedly responsible for and involved in covering up the governments involvement in the bombing, Santilli said. McVeigh was executed, whereas Garland is documented to have been directly involved. Check out BidenCrimeFamily.news for more updates on the first familys illegal business dealings. Watch the full episode of the The Pete Santilli Show below where Pete Santilli tackles Gary Shapleys revelations and Merrick Garlands role in the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. This video is from The Pete Santilli Show channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Secretary of State Blinken was the instigator of the intelligence community LIE used to cover up Hunter Bidens laptop before 2020 election. Ex-CIA chief: Biden operative Antony Blinken is behind the contrived intel letter discrediting Hunter Biden laptop story. China send warning message to Joe Biden by releasing Hunter Bidens bank records to Republicans. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk Brighteon.com CBSNews.com Independent.co.uk Maxim Barskiy is a specialist in the field of increasing the market value of enterprises. Businessman and Active Investor for over twenty years, former CEO, and shareholder in multibillion-dollar mining and metallurgical enterprises like TNK-BP and Sibanthracite, with a current focus on investing in high-tech startups. Maxim Barskiy: Education and Student Years Barskiy Maxim Gennadievich is a native to Saint Petersburg (formely Leningrad). Maxim Barskiy had dreamed of entering Leningrad State University since he was 14. He wanted to get into one of its most prestigious programs, known then as Political Economy. Thanks to high-quality preparation, he won the competition (about four applicants applied for one place) immediately after graduating from the technical school. Maxim Barskiy entered a student exchange program and attended a Norwegian school for several months to accomplish this. After this, he entered one of the most renowned business schools in the world - the Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley. On a Professional Path: Investment Banking Maxim Barskiy got a job with Troika Dialog, one of the most prominent investment specialists. Its key activity areas were trading operations with securities, finance, alternative and banking investments, and investment banking services. During his time at Troika Dialog, Maxim Barskiy took part in the preparation and execution of several significant mergers and acquisitions. Among them was the purchase of the assets of the telecommunications industry company VimpelCom by a well-known Norwegian player in the same market, Telenor. Another was the sale of the Bochkarev beer plant to Heineken, an international concern. Maxim Gennadievich Barskiy's essential tasks were asset valuation, financial model building, pitchbook development and meetings with potential investors. Internet and Telecom In 2000, Barskiy Maxim left Troika Dialog to manage Cityline, a company in Internet provider market, which at that moment needed to raise funds for development. Maxim Gennadievich Barskiy proposed a new strategy based on large-scale regional expansion. He found investors and, with them, infused capital into the enterprise. Thus, Cityline received enough funds to implement its plans and complete acquisitions of leased lines. Thanks to the development concept developed by Barskiy Maxim Gennadievich, Cityline experienced remarkable growth. Most leased Internet lines in many cities became Cityline property. Cityline's assets began to be of interest to Golden Telecom. This more prominent player in the telecom market could not expand without Cityline's regional network. Golden Telecom's solution was a 100% buyout of Cityline for $29 million. In this way, Barskiy Maxim increased Cityline's market value by $27 million in just one year, and then he sold it at a profit, despite the stagnation in the Internet market. New Frontiers - TNK-BP, WSR, and Matra Petroleum By the mid-2000s, Maxim Gennadievich Barskiy entered the natural resources industry, accepting an invitation to join the management body of Vostok Oil, a joint-stock company. Maxim Barskiy had to bring Vostok out of a deep crisis - the board of directors had brought the company near bankruptcy, ostensibly through being comprised mainly of foreigners who did not know how operations work locally. Mr. Barskiy completely changed the management team, assembling a new team who acted in the interests of shareholders. Then he carried out a profound reconfiguration of all business processes. He also rebranded the company, renaming it West Siberian Resources (WSR). Maksim Gennadievich Barskiy straightened out the financial position of the company in a short time. He developed measures to reduce costs and increase the raw material base of WSR. It acquired new production assets in the Timan-Pechora oil and gas province. During his four-year tenure, the measures developed and implemented by Barskiy Maxim Gennadievich made it possible to ensure a three-fold increase in oil production. In 2004, the company extracted 50 thousand tons of oil, but by 2008 this volume increased to 3.5 million tons - a seventy-fold increase. WSR's market value increased significantly - reaching $4.5 billion (initially, it was $60 million). In the first half of 2008, the assets of WSR and Alliance were merged into a vertically integrated oil holding called Alliance Oil Company. At the beginning of the third quarter, Barskiy Maxim stepped down from leading WSR and, having sold his stake, left the company. One of the essential points in Barskiy Maxim's career came in 2009 when he became a member of the executive body of TNK-BP, a very prominent player in the oil and gas industry. Maxim Gennadievich Barskiy worked as Co-CEO of TNK, introducing advanced techniques for optimizing business processes. With his direct participation, successful transactions were made to acquire several producing assets in Asian and South American countries. As a result, TNK-BP's market value tripled. From 2011 to 2018, Barskiy Maxim was both owner and CEO of Matra Petroleum, another company in the oil sector. During the same period, he served on the Board of Directors of an e-commerce service called Delivery Hero. Now an experienced top manager, Barskiy prepared this Berlin-based company for its initial public offering on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, which saw the company valued at 4 billion euros, twice its original analyst estimation of capitalization. Maxim Barskiy and Sibanthracite In 2018 Maxim Barskiy undertook a new and ambitious project: Sibanthracite. He received an invitation to cooperate with his colleague Dmitry Bosov, the majority owner of Sibanthracite. Maxim Barskiy was directed to turn this struggling enterprise into a success. Under Maxim Barskiy, Sibanthracite successfully achieved several key goals: Sibanthracite became a vertically managed and efficient holding operating according to precise standards. Maxim Barskiy consolidated its disparate enterprises and created a management company within the holding to improve efficiency. Maxim Barskiy brought Sibanthracite to new production and financial levels. Under Maxim Barskiy's leadership, Sibanthracite systematically began increasing its metallurgical coal production. It strengthened its position in the domestic and global markets. Under Maxim Barskiy, Sibanthracite tripled its capitalization. This is due, among other things, to Barskiy's expert investment policies and his introduction of modern supply and production technologies to the operation. Maxim Barskiy essentially trasformed Sibanthracite but Dmitry Bosov's tragic death cast a cloud of uncertainty over Sibanthracite's future. Maxim Barskiy executed management leveraged buyout of the company. Following that buyout, he divested his shares, turning over his stake to a strategic investor. One remarkable feature of this transfer is that it was done without disrupting Sibanthracite's operations or personnel. After leaving the mining industry, Barskiy Maxim returned to work as an Active Investor. Currently, he sits on the Board of Directors of Polyn Technology, a bleeding-edge low-power AI services and neuromorphic technology innovator. Ocean warming is one of the most significant consequences of climate change. It affects marine ecosystems and the people who depend on them in many ways. One of the most noticeable effects is the shift in the distribution of marine fish, which are moving away from the equator and towards the poles in search of cooler waters. Why are fish moving poleward? Fish are cold-blooded animals, which means their body temperature depends on the temperature of their environment, as per Phys.org. Fish have a preferred temperature range that suits their physiology and metabolism. If the water temperature becomes too hot or too cold, fish may experience stress, reduced growth, lower reproduction, and increased mortality. Thus, as the oceans warm, fish move to track their preferred temperatures. Most fish are moving poleward or into deeper waters. For some species, warming expands their ranges, allowing them to colonize new habitats. For others, warming reduces their ranges, forcing them to retreat from unsuitable areas. The speed and direction of fish movement vary depending on the species and the region. According to a recent study published in the journal PNAS, marine fish have shifted their distribution by an average of 226 kilometers over the past 40 years. The study analyzed data on nearly 50,000 species across three 20-year periods up to 2015 and found that the poleward migration is accelerating. Also Read: Global Warming Has Cascading Effect on Fish Size and Population What are the impacts of fish movement? The movement of fish has significant implications for marine biodiversity, food webs, and fisheries, as per Nature. As fish relocate, they interact with new species, predators, and prey, altering the structure and function of marine communities. Some species may benefit from the arrival of new competitors or prey, while others may suffer from the loss of familiar partners or predators. The movement of fish also affects the availability and accessibility of fish resources for human use. Some regions may experience an increase in fish abundance and diversity, creating new opportunities for fishing and aquaculture. Other regions may face a decline in fish stocks, threatening food security and livelihoods. The impacts of fish movement are not evenly distributed across the world. The tropics are expected to lose more species than they gain, as fish move away from warmer waters and few species replace them. The poles are expected to gain more species than they lose, as fish move into cooler waters and encounter less competition. The study in PNAS found that tropical regions have lost about 1,500 species over the past 40 years due to ocean warming. The authors warned that this trend could reduce the diversity and productivity of tropical fisheries, which support millions of people. How can we adapt to fish movement? The movement of fish poses challenges and opportunities for marine management and conservation. To cope with these changes, we need to improve our understanding and monitoring of fish distribution and abundance, especially in data-poor regions such as the tropics. We also need to adjust our policies and practices to account for the dynamic nature of marine resources. For example, we may need to revise fishing quotas and boundaries, establish adaptive marine protected areas, promote sustainable aquaculture, and enhance cooperation among countries and regions. Finally, we need to address the root cause of ocean warming by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. By doing so, we can limit the extent and impact of fish movement and protect the health and diversity of marine ecosystems. Related article: Researchers Predict That Larger Fish Species Suffers From Oxygen Deficiency Due to Global Warming and Human Activities Weather forecasts said that New York City (NYC) could anticipate hotter and drier conditions this week in the final days of May. Recent reports noted that NYC recorded warm-like temperatures this week, especially during the Memorial Day weekend. According to NWS New York NY, the latest forecast explained that sunny skies and dry conditions could become likely in the City. The report added that the City could also have hazy skies due to Nova Scotia's wildfires, adding that decreased air quality could unfold. Warmer and hotter temperatures in NYC Furthermore, AccuWeather's forecast explained that above-average temperatures and a warmer outlook could continue this June. The weather pattern shows widespread heat could unfold in Seattle, Billings, El Paso and Dallas. Meanwhile, drier conditions could emerge in Boston and New York. Recently, weather forecasts said that parts of the Northeast also recorded a rebound to a warm outlook, adding that the region could experience unseasonably dry weather. Based on AccuWeather's forecast, the report explained that challenging dry weather could become likely this June. Furthermore, this week's hotter and warmer outlook could be ideal for outdoor activities and travel, especially for this week. Due to the hot weather outlook, car owners mustn't leave their children and pets unattended inside their cars. Meanwhile, homeowners should monitor the temperatures of their family members for possible heat stroke and heat-related stress. The hot weather outlook could put at risk people with pre-existing health conditions, older adults, outdoor workers and children. It is also best that homeowners should avoid strenuous tasks and activities when the weather becomes more troublesome. Furthermore, drinking sufficient water during the hotter weather is essential. Weather in the United States While New York City could expect hotter conditions, some parts of the country could likely experience severe weather. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the latest forecast reported that a risk of severe weather could emerge in the Northern Great Basin and Sierra Nevada. Also Read: US Weather Forecast: Hotter Outlook to Continue in Northeast, Midwest This June The weather forecast noted that a severe thunderstorm could emerge in Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma. The forecast added that isolated and scattered thunderstorms could unfold in the Central Plains and Mid-MS Valley, increasing flash flooding risk. Meanwhile, the NWS Miami reported possible heavy rain and gusty winds in portions of the FL Peninsula. The forecast said that a disturbance could be likely in the Gulf. Americans with travel plans should consider the severe weather this week in parts of the United States. It is best to check the weather conditions before leaving your home for a potential stormy outlook. As the final days of June end, the hurricane season is on the way. It is expected that rainy conditions and hurricane-force winds could be possible. Homeowners must prepare for the hurricane season. Checking your homes for improvement is helpful to withstand the challenging weather in the future. Related Article: New York Rare Manhttangenge Likely to Unfold This Week For more similar, don't forget to follow Nature World News. An Ice Age volcano, that emits the greenhouse gas methane, was found 1,300 feet at the bottom of the Arctic Ocean, according to a new study led by scientists in Norway. The ancient Arctic volcano is situated at the center of a crater with a radius of 1,000 meters. The scientific team believes the volcano formed by the end of the last ice Age thousands of years ago. Although a large amount of the climate-damaging methane was stored in the underwater volcano, the site serves as a rich environment for the bacterial community and marine life at the newly discovered crater, based on the new research paper. The findings highlight the potential for undersea volcanoes to become a methane sinks caused by natural processes. A separate yet related study also determined that an offshore, extinct volcano off the coast of Portugal potentially contained gigatons of carbon dioxide, another greenhouse gas that accelerates the warming of the planet by trapping solar heat. The implications of these findings involve the potential utilization of active, dormant, or extinct volcanoes to mitigate climate change and global warming. In previous decades, scientists have searched for alternative measures to store or mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, which majority come from human activities like the burning of fossil fuels. Despite such efforts, the world is reportedly a long way ahead in lowering the global average temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius, a goal embodied within the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. Ancient Ice Age Volcano On their May 9 news release, UiT The Arctic University of Norway researchers confirmed their discovery of the new volcano. Aside from methane, the volcano emits mud, liquid, and gas from Earth's interior. In collaboration with REV Ocean, the research team found a mud volcano on May 7 and has been named Borealis Mud Volcano, which is the second volcano of its kind found in Norwegian waters of the Atlantic region. The said ancient Ice Age volcano was discovered while the team was aboard the Kronprins Haakon research vessel. It is guided by ROV Aurora, a remote-controlled underwater vessel. Also Read: Crabotage: Research Team Battles Crab While Studying Underwater Volcano Methane Gas Emission Borealis Mud Volcano likely formed because of a "catastrophic, natural blowout" that released massive deposits of methane shortly after the last Ice Age period 18,000 years ago. The research suggested it was triggered by the pressure of the ice above. The expedition's lead researcher, Giuliana Panieri, said seeing the underwater volcanic eruption reminds us how alive Earth is, as cited by Newsweek. In particular, the findings reportedly describe the Ice Age volcano emitted silt and methane, located 70 miles south of Norway's Bear Island. In 1995, prior to the discovery of the Borealis Mud Volcano, scientists found the first mud volcano in Norwegian waters called Haakon Mosby. It is also in the Barents Sea near Norway, where it spews several hundred tons of methane, according to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. Related Article: Antarctica: Dormant Underwater Volcano Awakens, Causes 85,000 Earthquake Swarms Nvidia has unveiled a new DGX GH200 AI supercomputer, underpinned by its new Grace Hopper superchip and targeted toward developing and supporting large language models. DGX GH200 AI supercomputers integrate Nvidias most advanced accelerated computing and networking technologies to expand the frontier of AI, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said in a blog post. The supercomputer, according to Huang, combines the companys GH200 Grace Hopper superchip and Nvidias NVLink and Switch System, to allow the development of large language models for generative AI language applications, recommender systems, and data analytics workloads. Nvidias DGX GH200 uses the NVLink interconnect technology to combine 256 Grace Hopper superchips into a single graphics processing unit (GPU) in order to extract 1 exaflop of performance and 144 terabytes of shared memory nearly 500 times more memory than the previous generation NVIDIA DGX A100, which was introduced in 2020. The chip maker will emulate the strategy it took with its DGX Pods in making the new supercomputer available. Earlier in March, Huang said the company struck a deal to make its DGX systems available through multiple cloud providers, rather than installing the necessary hardware on-premises. Currently, Microsoft, Meta, and Google Cloud have access to the new supercomputer, the company said. Nvidia also said the new Grace Hopper superchip that fuels the DGX GH200 AI supercomputer is in full production mode and systems with the superchip are expected to be available later this year. The company also said that it was using the new Grace Hopper superchip to help SoftBank design next-generation distributed data centers that will be capable of handling generative AI and 6G applications. These data centers will be distributed across Japan, the companies said in a blog post. Earlier in March, the company had launched new data processing units (DPUs) and GPUs, including the BlueField 3 DPU. By PTI NEW DELHI: The now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 was brought in by the AAP leadership, specifically former excise minister Manish Sisodia, to "continuously generate and channel illegal funds" to themselves, the ED said in its latest chargesheet in this money laundering case. The federal probe agency also charged Sisodia, the former deputy chief minister of Delhi, of receiving "bribes" from an accused involved in the case, and dubbed these as "proceeds of crime" under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). "As elaborated...Amit Arora paid Rs 2.2 crore to Manish Sisodia through Dinesh Arora for getting policy changes in his favour in the GoM report/excise policy 2021-22," the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said in its prosecution complaint filed early this month. "This amount is directly a bribe or kickback to a government functionary and is proceeds of crime under section 2(1)(u) of PMLA, 2002. In this manner, Manish Sisodia participated in the generation of this proceeds of crime," it said. Amit Arora is the promoter of liquor companies Buddy Retail Pvt Ltd, Popular Spirits and KSJM Spirits LLP, while Dinesh Arora has been alleged to be a close associate of Sisodia. A Delhi court took cognisance of this fifth chargesheet (first naming Sisodia as accused) on Tuesday and issued a production warrant against the 51-year-old for June 1, saying there was enough prima facie evidence. Sisodia was arrested by the ED on March 9 from Tihar Jail, where he was lodged as the CBI has arrested him in the same case. The chargesheet further said Sisodia "acquired this proceeds of crime (of Rs 2.2 crore) and is involved in the concealment of the same." It said the excise policy was "drafted with an intention to cause undue benefit to certain private entities or players" and was formed with "deliberate loopholes to facilitate illegal and criminal activities." The ED also charged Sisodia with being involved in the "destruction of digital evidence to impede the investigation and to erase evidence." It said the AAP leader "used/changed/destroyed 14 mobile phones/IMEIs during the period of scam including the period after registration of the predicate offence (CBI FIR)." The agency said its probe found that 43 SIMs were used on these 14 mobile phones, of which, only five SIMs were either owned by Sisodia in his statements (recorded with the ED) or were issued in his name. It quoted Sisodia's statement recorded during the investigation where he said "the phone which was used before the phone seized by CBI was broken and is not with me now... I do not remember where the damaged phone is now." "It is amply clear from these facts that the said mobile phone used by Manish Sisodia during the scam period was destroyed and is not available for forensic analysis," the ED said. The agency also alleged that Sisodia "deliberately got a draft cabinet note changed to exclude the three legal expert opinions which could have caused hindrance to his ulterior motive of changing the then excise policy and bringing a new policy as per their agenda/interests which was planned in conspiracy with the South Group." The ED has arrested a total of 12 people in this case till now, including Sisodia. It undertook 191 searches in this case till May 4, when the latest chargesheet was filed. It is alleged by the ED and the CBI that the Delhi government's 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. The policy was subsequently scrapped and the Delhi lieutenant governor recommended a CBI probe, following which the ED registered a case under the PMLA. NEW DELHI: The now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 was brought in by the AAP leadership, specifically former excise minister Manish Sisodia, to "continuously generate and channel illegal funds" to themselves, the ED said in its latest chargesheet in this money laundering case. The federal probe agency also charged Sisodia, the former deputy chief minister of Delhi, of receiving "bribes" from an accused involved in the case, and dubbed these as "proceeds of crime" under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). "As elaborated...Amit Arora paid Rs 2.2 crore to Manish Sisodia through Dinesh Arora for getting policy changes in his favour in the GoM report/excise policy 2021-22," the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said in its prosecution complaint filed early this month.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "This amount is directly a bribe or kickback to a government functionary and is proceeds of crime under section 2(1)(u) of PMLA, 2002. In this manner, Manish Sisodia participated in the generation of this proceeds of crime," it said. Amit Arora is the promoter of liquor companies Buddy Retail Pvt Ltd, Popular Spirits and KSJM Spirits LLP, while Dinesh Arora has been alleged to be a close associate of Sisodia. A Delhi court took cognisance of this fifth chargesheet (first naming Sisodia as accused) on Tuesday and issued a production warrant against the 51-year-old for June 1, saying there was enough prima facie evidence. Sisodia was arrested by the ED on March 9 from Tihar Jail, where he was lodged as the CBI has arrested him in the same case. The chargesheet further said Sisodia "acquired this proceeds of crime (of Rs 2.2 crore) and is involved in the concealment of the same." It said the excise policy was "drafted with an intention to cause undue benefit to certain private entities or players" and was formed with "deliberate loopholes to facilitate illegal and criminal activities." The ED also charged Sisodia with being involved in the "destruction of digital evidence to impede the investigation and to erase evidence." It said the AAP leader "used/changed/destroyed 14 mobile phones/IMEIs during the period of scam including the period after registration of the predicate offence (CBI FIR)." The agency said its probe found that 43 SIMs were used on these 14 mobile phones, of which, only five SIMs were either owned by Sisodia in his statements (recorded with the ED) or were issued in his name. It quoted Sisodia's statement recorded during the investigation where he said "the phone which was used before the phone seized by CBI was broken and is not with me now... I do not remember where the damaged phone is now." "It is amply clear from these facts that the said mobile phone used by Manish Sisodia during the scam period was destroyed and is not available for forensic analysis," the ED said. The agency also alleged that Sisodia "deliberately got a draft cabinet note changed to exclude the three legal expert opinions which could have caused hindrance to his ulterior motive of changing the then excise policy and bringing a new policy as per their agenda/interests which was planned in conspiracy with the South Group." The ED has arrested a total of 12 people in this case till now, including Sisodia. It undertook 191 searches in this case till May 4, when the latest chargesheet was filed. It is alleged by the ED and the CBI that the Delhi government's 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. The policy was subsequently scrapped and the Delhi lieutenant governor recommended a CBI probe, following which the ED registered a case under the PMLA. By PTI NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court directed the CBI on Wednesday to take further steps to arrest self-styled spiritual preacher Virender Dev Dixit who is facing rape cases and has been absconding for years. It was brought to the court's notice that Dixit and his followers are uploading videos on at least six YouTube channels and social media handles and that a large number of such videos were being uploaded since March 2018. "The CBI is directed to take further steps for arresting Dixit as he is still absconding by taking all possible appropriate measures. Let the matter be called after six weeks. Let the CBI file a fresh status report in the matter," a bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Subramonium Prasad said. The court was hearing a petition filed in 2017 by the NGO Foundation for Social Empowerment represented by lawyer Sravan Kumar. The petitioner has alleged that several minors and women are being illegally confined at the "spiritual university" run by Dixit and the parents of the inmates are not allowed to meet them. The court had asked the CBI to trace Dixit, the founder of the ashram, and directed the federal agency to probe the "illegal confinement" of girls and women at the ashram where they were allegedly kept in "animal-like" conditions behind metal doors in a "fortress" surrounded by barbed wire. The court said another important aspect is that a large number of such ashrams are operating in the country and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is required to find out who is the owner of these ashrams. It said the agency is also required to ascertain the details of the bank accounts from which funds are being released towards the payment of rent to the owners of these ashrams and the documents on the basis of which the properties have been let out to the residents. The CBI is directed to conduct further probe in the matter, the court said. It noted that despite best efforts, the agency has not been able to arrest Dixit. "However, CBI can investigate further to initiate the process for letter of request to the UK, Nepal and places from where the videos are being uploaded," it said. The court also noted that the organisation in question is using the word "Vishwa Vidyalaya" as it describes itself as the "Adhyatmik Vishwa Vidyalaya". The counsel appearing for the ashram has submitted that the subject matter is sub judice before the Supreme Court regarding the use of the word "Vishwa Vidyalaya". The court said the authorities concerned will also be under an obligation to find out whether the provisions of the Religious Institutions (Prevention of Misuse) Act are being violated or not and added that this exercise shall be conducted within four weeks. Earlier, the CBI had told the high court that all efforts were being made to ascertain the whereabouts of Dixit. Special teams were formed to arrest him and raids were carried out at his farmhouses and ashrams, the agency had said. The CBI, which had said there was a possibility that Dixit might have fled the country, had added that a reward of Rs 5 lakh has been announced on information regarding Dixit and his name has been sent to the fugitive cell of the agency to trace his present location. The court had earlier sought the assistance of retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Kiran Bedi on the matter concerning the welfare of the women living in Dixit's ashram at Rohini here. It had also constituted a committee under Bedi's supervision to monitor the functioning of the ashram -- Adhyatmik Vishwa Vidyalaya, Rohini. It had set up a committee, comprising lawyers and Delhi Commission for Women chief Swati Maliwal, to inspect the premises of the institute. The committee, comprising lawyers Ajay Verma and Nandita Rao, had given a report detailing the "horrible" living conditions of the more than 100 girls and women, who were housed in "animal-like conditions with no privacy even for bathing". In 2022, the court had asked the ashram to show cause as to why it should not be taken over by the Delhi government and said it was difficult to accept that the inmates were living there of their free will. It had also said while it cannot force the women living in the ashram under "shocking" conditions to live with their parents, no institution has the licence to conduct its affairs in a manner that violates the fundamental rights of the inmates. NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court directed the CBI on Wednesday to take further steps to arrest self-styled spiritual preacher Virender Dev Dixit who is facing rape cases and has been absconding for years. It was brought to the court's notice that Dixit and his followers are uploading videos on at least six YouTube channels and social media handles and that a large number of such videos were being uploaded since March 2018. "The CBI is directed to take further steps for arresting Dixit as he is still absconding by taking all possible appropriate measures. Let the matter be called after six weeks. Let the CBI file a fresh status report in the matter," a bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Subramonium Prasad said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The court was hearing a petition filed in 2017 by the NGO Foundation for Social Empowerment represented by lawyer Sravan Kumar. The petitioner has alleged that several minors and women are being illegally confined at the "spiritual university" run by Dixit and the parents of the inmates are not allowed to meet them. The court had asked the CBI to trace Dixit, the founder of the ashram, and directed the federal agency to probe the "illegal confinement" of girls and women at the ashram where they were allegedly kept in "animal-like" conditions behind metal doors in a "fortress" surrounded by barbed wire. The court said another important aspect is that a large number of such ashrams are operating in the country and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is required to find out who is the owner of these ashrams. It said the agency is also required to ascertain the details of the bank accounts from which funds are being released towards the payment of rent to the owners of these ashrams and the documents on the basis of which the properties have been let out to the residents. The CBI is directed to conduct further probe in the matter, the court said. It noted that despite best efforts, the agency has not been able to arrest Dixit. "However, CBI can investigate further to initiate the process for letter of request to the UK, Nepal and places from where the videos are being uploaded," it said. The court also noted that the organisation in question is using the word "Vishwa Vidyalaya" as it describes itself as the "Adhyatmik Vishwa Vidyalaya". The counsel appearing for the ashram has submitted that the subject matter is sub judice before the Supreme Court regarding the use of the word "Vishwa Vidyalaya". The court said the authorities concerned will also be under an obligation to find out whether the provisions of the Religious Institutions (Prevention of Misuse) Act are being violated or not and added that this exercise shall be conducted within four weeks. Earlier, the CBI had told the high court that all efforts were being made to ascertain the whereabouts of Dixit. Special teams were formed to arrest him and raids were carried out at his farmhouses and ashrams, the agency had said. The CBI, which had said there was a possibility that Dixit might have fled the country, had added that a reward of Rs 5 lakh has been announced on information regarding Dixit and his name has been sent to the fugitive cell of the agency to trace his present location. The court had earlier sought the assistance of retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Kiran Bedi on the matter concerning the welfare of the women living in Dixit's ashram at Rohini here. It had also constituted a committee under Bedi's supervision to monitor the functioning of the ashram -- Adhyatmik Vishwa Vidyalaya, Rohini. It had set up a committee, comprising lawyers and Delhi Commission for Women chief Swati Maliwal, to inspect the premises of the institute. The committee, comprising lawyers Ajay Verma and Nandita Rao, had given a report detailing the "horrible" living conditions of the more than 100 girls and women, who were housed in "animal-like conditions with no privacy even for bathing". In 2022, the court had asked the ashram to show cause as to why it should not be taken over by the Delhi government and said it was difficult to accept that the inmates were living there of their free will. It had also said while it cannot force the women living in the ashram under "shocking" conditions to live with their parents, no institution has the licence to conduct its affairs in a manner that violates the fundamental rights of the inmates. By PTI AJMER: In his first remarks on the Congress-led Opposition boycotting the inauguration of the new Parliament building, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said they "insulted" the sentiment of the country and the hard work of 60,000 labourers. "India got a new Parliament building three days back. I ask you whether you are proud of it or not. Did you feel the joy on the increase in India's prestige? The Congress and some parties like it hurled muck of politics on this too," he said at a rally in Ajmer. Modi also said the Congress is a party that took "85 per cent commission", and referred to a statement by former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi that when his government sent one rupee only 15 paise would reach the intended beneficiary. The Congress and 20 other parties boycotted the inauguration of the new Parliament building by the prime minister on Sunday, saying it was an insult to President Droupadi Murmu, a tribal woman, that she was not invited by the government to do the honours. Referring to the inauguration of the new Parliament building, Modi said such opportunities come once in generations, but the Congress used this for its "selfish protest." "They insulted the hard work of 60,000 (Shramjivis) labourers and the sentiment of the country," he said, adding that Congress is unable to digest the progress India is making. Modi alleged the main Opposition party is angry because a "son of the poor" is not allowing it to do what it wants and is "raising questions on their corruption and parivarwad (dynastic politics)." The prime minister accused the Congress of following a policy of misleading the poor and keeping them deprived during its rule. "Fifty years ago, Congress guaranteed that it will remove poverty. But it turned out to be their biggest betrayal to the poor. It has been a policy of the Congress to mislead the poor and keep them deprived. The people of Rajasthan have also suffered a lot due to this." The rally marked the start of a series of BJP public meetings over a month in a major outreach campaign as the party completes nine years in power at the Centre. The Congress-run Rajasthan goes to the polls this year-end. Before addressing the rally at Kayad Vishram Sthali on the Jaipur-Ajmer Road, Modi offered prayers at the Brahma temple in Pushkar. The nine years of the BJP government were dedicated to the service of people, good governance, and welfare of the poor, Modi said. Before 2014, he said, people were on the streets against corruption, terror attacks rocked major cities, crimes against women were rising, policies were in disarray, investors were disappointed and there was a "superpower" over the then-prime minister and his government was being run by remote control. During its rule, the Congress developed a corrupt system that "sucked the country's blood", he said. Now, the prime minister said, people across the world are talking about India, and experts are saying India is very close to ending extreme poverty. "Behind every success the country achieves, there is sweat of the people of India. The determination shown by every Indian to take the country forward is unique, but some people are not able to digest this," he said. "When it comes to loot, the Congress does not discriminate against anyone. The Congress loots every citizen of the country equally be it poor, Dalit, oppressed, tribals, minorities, women or youths," he said. There has never been a dearth of money for development work in the country, the prime minister said. "It is important that the money sent for development work is fully used in the work but the Congress had developed a corrupt system which was hollowing out the country," he said. Development accomplished under the last nine years has been possible as the BJP government eliminated the path of loot the Congress carved, Modi said, adding had the grand old party been in power such achievement was not possible. He said the general vaccination campaign run under the Congress government is an example of how the party "played with the lives" of crores of women and children. "When the Congress government was in power, the vaccination coverage in the country was just about 60 per cent. At that time, 40 out of 100 pregnant women and children could not get life saving vaccines." "Had the Congress government been there, it would have taken another 40 years for 100 per cent vaccination coverage. How many generations would have passed? A large number of poor women and children would have to lose their lives," he said. He said only 14 crore people had gas connections before 2014, and at that rate, it would have taken another 20 years to cover the entire country. But this situation was not acceptable to him, and therefore, the PM said, he ensured 19 crore gas connections are given in just nine years. He made similar comparisons for other schemes as well. He said that his government gave One Rank One Pension to soldiers, while the Congress "betrayed" brave soldiers over the issue. The OROP would not have seen the light of day if the Congress were in power, he said. Attacking the state government, he said people gave a mandate to the Congress but the chief minister, his ministers and MLAs are busy fighting among themselves, and there is instability and anarchy. "The Congress in Rajasthan is not worried about the public. Crime is at its peak. People cannot celebrate festivals peacefully. The government has drowned in appeasement of terrorism," he said. He also alleged the Congress government has given a free hand to those who do not care about the interests of their daughters. "In nine years, the BJP government paid attention to every problem related to mothers and sisters," he said, highlighting women's welfare schemes of his government. Union ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal, Kailash Chaudhary, Gajendra Singh, BJP state president CP Joshi, his predecessor Satish Poonia, former chief minister Vasundhara Raje, Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore and other leaders were also present on the stage. Modi began his 40-minute address by paying tributes to deities people in the area revere such as including Tejaji, Lord Devnarayan, Diggi Kalyan, Mata Shakambhari, Khoda Ganeshji. He said Ajmer has been home to sages and also houses the dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. This was the second visit of Modi to Rajasthan in less than a month. Earlier this month, Modi visited Rajsamand and Sirohi districts. AJMER: In his first remarks on the Congress-led Opposition boycotting the inauguration of the new Parliament building, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said they "insulted" the sentiment of the country and the hard work of 60,000 labourers. "India got a new Parliament building three days back. I ask you whether you are proud of it or not. Did you feel the joy on the increase in India's prestige? The Congress and some parties like it hurled muck of politics on this too," he said at a rally in Ajmer. Modi also said the Congress is a party that took "85 per cent commission", and referred to a statement by former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi that when his government sent one rupee only 15 paise would reach the intended beneficiary.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The Congress and 20 other parties boycotted the inauguration of the new Parliament building by the prime minister on Sunday, saying it was an insult to President Droupadi Murmu, a tribal woman, that she was not invited by the government to do the honours. Referring to the inauguration of the new Parliament building, Modi said such opportunities come once in generations, but the Congress used this for its "selfish protest." "They insulted the hard work of 60,000 (Shramjivis) labourers and the sentiment of the country," he said, adding that Congress is unable to digest the progress India is making. Modi alleged the main Opposition party is angry because a "son of the poor" is not allowing it to do what it wants and is "raising questions on their corruption and parivarwad (dynastic politics)." The prime minister accused the Congress of following a policy of misleading the poor and keeping them deprived during its rule. "Fifty years ago, Congress guaranteed that it will remove poverty. But it turned out to be their biggest betrayal to the poor. It has been a policy of the Congress to mislead the poor and keep them deprived. The people of Rajasthan have also suffered a lot due to this." The rally marked the start of a series of BJP public meetings over a month in a major outreach campaign as the party completes nine years in power at the Centre. The Congress-run Rajasthan goes to the polls this year-end. Before addressing the rally at Kayad Vishram Sthali on the Jaipur-Ajmer Road, Modi offered prayers at the Brahma temple in Pushkar. The nine years of the BJP government were dedicated to the service of people, good governance, and welfare of the poor, Modi said. Before 2014, he said, people were on the streets against corruption, terror attacks rocked major cities, crimes against women were rising, policies were in disarray, investors were disappointed and there was a "superpower" over the then-prime minister and his government was being run by remote control. During its rule, the Congress developed a corrupt system that "sucked the country's blood", he said. Now, the prime minister said, people across the world are talking about India, and experts are saying India is very close to ending extreme poverty. "Behind every success the country achieves, there is sweat of the people of India. The determination shown by every Indian to take the country forward is unique, but some people are not able to digest this," he said. "When it comes to loot, the Congress does not discriminate against anyone. The Congress loots every citizen of the country equally be it poor, Dalit, oppressed, tribals, minorities, women or youths," he said. There has never been a dearth of money for development work in the country, the prime minister said. "It is important that the money sent for development work is fully used in the work but the Congress had developed a corrupt system which was hollowing out the country," he said. Development accomplished under the last nine years has been possible as the BJP government eliminated the path of loot the Congress carved, Modi said, adding had the grand old party been in power such achievement was not possible. He said the general vaccination campaign run under the Congress government is an example of how the party "played with the lives" of crores of women and children. "When the Congress government was in power, the vaccination coverage in the country was just about 60 per cent. At that time, 40 out of 100 pregnant women and children could not get life saving vaccines." "Had the Congress government been there, it would have taken another 40 years for 100 per cent vaccination coverage. How many generations would have passed? A large number of poor women and children would have to lose their lives," he said. He said only 14 crore people had gas connections before 2014, and at that rate, it would have taken another 20 years to cover the entire country. But this situation was not acceptable to him, and therefore, the PM said, he ensured 19 crore gas connections are given in just nine years. He made similar comparisons for other schemes as well. He said that his government gave One Rank One Pension to soldiers, while the Congress "betrayed" brave soldiers over the issue. The OROP would not have seen the light of day if the Congress were in power, he said. Attacking the state government, he said people gave a mandate to the Congress but the chief minister, his ministers and MLAs are busy fighting among themselves, and there is instability and anarchy. "The Congress in Rajasthan is not worried about the public. Crime is at its peak. People cannot celebrate festivals peacefully. The government has drowned in appeasement of terrorism," he said. He also alleged the Congress government has given a free hand to those who do not care about the interests of their daughters. "In nine years, the BJP government paid attention to every problem related to mothers and sisters," he said, highlighting women's welfare schemes of his government. Union ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal, Kailash Chaudhary, Gajendra Singh, BJP state president CP Joshi, his predecessor Satish Poonia, former chief minister Vasundhara Raje, Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore and other leaders were also present on the stage. Modi began his 40-minute address by paying tributes to deities people in the area revere such as including Tejaji, Lord Devnarayan, Diggi Kalyan, Mata Shakambhari, Khoda Ganeshji. He said Ajmer has been home to sages and also houses the dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. This was the second visit of Modi to Rajasthan in less than a month. Earlier this month, Modi visited Rajsamand and Sirohi districts. By PTI MUMBAI: In a searing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Shiv Sena (UBT) on Wednesday said citizens of the country were beset by several problems during the nine years of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government led by him, and said if this rule ends quickly, it will be good for the people. In an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana', the Shiv Sena (UBT) said PM Modi on Sunday installed in the new Parliament building the 'Sengol' (sceptre) as a symbol of the transfer of power and established his "monarchy", even as the 'Rajdharma' (duty of a king) is not being followed and corruption is being brushed under the carpet. "According to Modi and his blind followers, India came into existence after 2014. The party, which had no role in the freedom struggle or building the nation has been in power for the last nine years. The Modi government's nine years of rule proved to be a nightmare for the country and people, and it will bode well for them if this rule comes to an end at the earliest," it said. In these nine years, the Modi government resorted to note-ban twice and the experiment failed. Unemployment increased during the rule. There was a rise in black money and the promise to provide jobs remained unfulfilled. Black money was used for bringing down governments led by BJP's rival parties in states, it alleged. PM Modi's blind followers believe that India's stature rose due to all of this, the party added. "Modi installed the Sengol as a symbol of transfer of power and established his monarchy. How will the stature of the country rise due to this monarchy?" the Uddhav Thackeray-led party asked. Modi on Sunday asserted the significance of Sengol as a symbol of the transfer of power saying that the sceptre will continue to inspire the parliamentarians in their duty. A ceremonial sceptre, 'Sengol', which is said to have been given to India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru to symbolise the transfer of power in August 1947 by the British, was kept in the Nehru Gallery of the Allahabad Museum and was installed in the Lok Sabha chamber of the new Parliament. Made of silver with a coat of gold, Sengol was originally used to mark the handing over power from one king to another during the Chola dynasty in Tamil Nadu. MUMBAI: In a searing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Shiv Sena (UBT) on Wednesday said citizens of the country were beset by several problems during the nine years of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government led by him, and said if this rule ends quickly, it will be good for the people. In an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana', the Shiv Sena (UBT) said PM Modi on Sunday installed in the new Parliament building the 'Sengol' (sceptre) as a symbol of the transfer of power and established his "monarchy", even as the 'Rajdharma' (duty of a king) is not being followed and corruption is being brushed under the carpet. "According to Modi and his blind followers, India came into existence after 2014. The party, which had no role in the freedom struggle or building the nation has been in power for the last nine years. The Modi government's nine years of rule proved to be a nightmare for the country and people, and it will bode well for them if this rule comes to an end at the earliest," it said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In these nine years, the Modi government resorted to note-ban twice and the experiment failed. Unemployment increased during the rule. There was a rise in black money and the promise to provide jobs remained unfulfilled. Black money was used for bringing down governments led by BJP's rival parties in states, it alleged. PM Modi's blind followers believe that India's stature rose due to all of this, the party added. "Modi installed the Sengol as a symbol of transfer of power and established his monarchy. How will the stature of the country rise due to this monarchy?" the Uddhav Thackeray-led party asked. Modi on Sunday asserted the significance of Sengol as a symbol of the transfer of power saying that the sceptre will continue to inspire the parliamentarians in their duty. A ceremonial sceptre, 'Sengol', which is said to have been given to India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru to symbolise the transfer of power in August 1947 by the British, was kept in the Nehru Gallery of the Allahabad Museum and was installed in the Lok Sabha chamber of the new Parliament. Made of silver with a coat of gold, Sengol was originally used to mark the handing over power from one king to another during the Chola dynasty in Tamil Nadu. Rajesh KumarThakur By Express News Service NEW DELHI: After months of crafting a national poll strategy with experts of the party for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday sounded the poll bugle by launching a nationwide month-long special mass connect outreach. The BJP as part of its meticulously crafted electoral strategy now will go across the countrys 543 parliamentary constituencies with the performances of the last 9 years of the PM Modi-led NDA government. Sharing details of the mass connect program, in charge of this mass connect outreach Tarun Chug here on Tuesday told the media that the outreach union ministers and partys almost all senior leaders have been engaged in this outreach billed as one of the biggest and longest outreaches ever carried out by any party in the country in the last one and half decades. Sharing details with the reporters at party headquarters, Tarun Chugh-who is the in-charge of this Pan-India special mass outreach, said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will ramp up the exercise formally on May 31 with a public rally at Ajmer in poll-bound Rajasthan. The BJP officially blew the poll bugle for the 2024 LS elections on Tuesday through this mass connect outreach exercise for covering the countrys all 543 LS constituencies to conclude on June 30. It has been finalised that partys senior leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address 51 pubic rallies across the country between May 30 and June 30 with PM Modi addressing the first public rally on May 31 in Rajashthan, he told the reporters, adding that senior elders like Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, JP Nadda and partys principal strategist Amit Shah would be among other prominent leaders to address the rallies. Claiming the partys outreach as the biggest such mass connect programme, Chugh said that as many as 500 public meetings would also be held during the month-long outreach at the Lok Sabha constituency levels with an aim to connect with more than 5 lakh families of eminent and influential people of various walks of life including war veterans, artists, sportspersons and others on the 9th anniversary of Modi government. Working in a very calculative way, the BJP has divided the 543 LS constituencies into 144 clusters each cluster having 3 to 4 LS constituencies to cover the entire area through workers and leaders interactions-cum-contact campaign. He said that as the party has gone into poll mode riding over the governments high performance- index of the last 9 years, at least 2 senior party leaders including union ministers, have been assigned with the responsibility of spending 8 days in every cluster by participating in various public connect programmes with different segments of society, including beneficiaries of government schemes. The BJP-led government has released its report card on performances and we would be making the report cards of governments visible performances easily available to the janta-janardan( people) , who have given us the opportunity to serve the nation," he remarked. On being asked by the media about the Congress terming the governments 9 years of performances incomplete and failures, Chugh hit back saying that the UPAs 10 years of rule in the country was not only mired in scams and scandals but also infamous for mass corruption in governance. Compared to the UPA-misrule, the PM Modi- led government is widely credited with a distinction of being the most performing government having a zero tolerance for corruption, he claimed, accusing the Opposition of being in utter political frustration. He further said that the BJP workers will reach households at the booth level highlighting the government's successes and seeking the people's support. As part of this strategy, the BJP has also launched a mobile number -9090902024 urging the countrymen to show their support to the party by giving a missed call. He also said that the party will also hold the Vikas-Tirth during the outreach time displaying the governments works on road, rail, and other fronts of development as a benchmark of 9 years of the Modi government. Chugh further said that the BJP has involved more than 16 lakh members of the party in carrying out this outreach covering each and every booth under the LS constituency. NEW DELHI: After months of crafting a national poll strategy with experts of the party for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday sounded the poll bugle by launching a nationwide month-long special mass connect outreach. The BJP as part of its meticulously crafted electoral strategy now will go across the countrys 543 parliamentary constituencies with the performances of the last 9 years of the PM Modi-led NDA government. Sharing details of the mass connect program, in charge of this mass connect outreach Tarun Chug here on Tuesday told the media that the outreach union ministers and partys almost all senior leaders have been engaged in this outreach billed as one of the biggest and longest outreaches ever carried out by any party in the country in the last one and half decades.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Sharing details with the reporters at party headquarters, Tarun Chugh-who is the in-charge of this Pan-India special mass outreach, said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will ramp up the exercise formally on May 31 with a public rally at Ajmer in poll-bound Rajasthan. The BJP officially blew the poll bugle for the 2024 LS elections on Tuesday through this mass connect outreach exercise for covering the countrys all 543 LS constituencies to conclude on June 30. It has been finalised that partys senior leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address 51 pubic rallies across the country between May 30 and June 30 with PM Modi addressing the first public rally on May 31 in Rajashthan, he told the reporters, adding that senior elders like Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, JP Nadda and partys principal strategist Amit Shah would be among other prominent leaders to address the rallies. Claiming the partys outreach as the biggest such mass connect programme, Chugh said that as many as 500 public meetings would also be held during the month-long outreach at the Lok Sabha constituency levels with an aim to connect with more than 5 lakh families of eminent and influential people of various walks of life including war veterans, artists, sportspersons and others on the 9th anniversary of Modi government. Working in a very calculative way, the BJP has divided the 543 LS constituencies into 144 clusters each cluster having 3 to 4 LS constituencies to cover the entire area through workers and leaders interactions-cum-contact campaign. He said that as the party has gone into poll mode riding over the governments high performance- index of the last 9 years, at least 2 senior party leaders including union ministers, have been assigned with the responsibility of spending 8 days in every cluster by participating in various public connect programmes with different segments of society, including beneficiaries of government schemes. The BJP-led government has released its report card on performances and we would be making the report cards of governments visible performances easily available to the janta-janardan( people) , who have given us the opportunity to serve the nation," he remarked. On being asked by the media about the Congress terming the governments 9 years of performances incomplete and failures, Chugh hit back saying that the UPAs 10 years of rule in the country was not only mired in scams and scandals but also infamous for mass corruption in governance. Compared to the UPA-misrule, the PM Modi- led government is widely credited with a distinction of being the most performing government having a zero tolerance for corruption, he claimed, accusing the Opposition of being in utter political frustration. He further said that the BJP workers will reach households at the booth level highlighting the government's successes and seeking the people's support. As part of this strategy, the BJP has also launched a mobile number -9090902024 urging the countrymen to show their support to the party by giving a missed call. He also said that the party will also hold the Vikas-Tirth during the outreach time displaying the governments works on road, rail, and other fronts of development as a benchmark of 9 years of the Modi government. Chugh further said that the BJP has involved more than 16 lakh members of the party in carrying out this outreach covering each and every booth under the LS constituency. By PTI NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will meet his Tamil Nadu and Jharkhand counterparts to drum up support in opposing the central ordinance on control over administrative services in the national capital. "Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (June 1) to seek DMK's support against Centre's unconstitutional-undemocratic 'Anti-Delhi' Ordinance," he tweeted on Wednesday. Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (1st June) to seek DMK's support against Centre's unconstitutional-undemocratic 'Anti-Delhi' Ordinance. May 31, 2023 "Day after tomorrow, on June 2, I will meet Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren in Ranchi. Will seek his support against the ordinance promulgated by Modi government against the people of Delhi," he said in another tweet. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo has been reaching out to leaders of non-BJP parties to garner support against the ordinance so that the Centre's bid to replace it through a bill is defeated when it is brought in Parliament. The Centre had on May 19 promulgated the ordinance to create an authority for the transfer and posting of Group-A officers in Delhi, which the AAP government had called a deception with the Supreme Court verdict on control of services. The ordinance came a week after the apex court handed over the control of services in Delhi, excluding police, public order and land, to the elected government. It seeks to set up a National Capital Civil Service Authority for the transfer of and disciplinary proceedings against Group-A officers from the DANICS cadre. The Centre will have to bring a bill in Parliament to replace the ordinance within six months of its promulgation. Transfer and postings of all officers of the Delhi government were under the executive control of the lieutenant governor before the top court's May 11 verdict. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief leader Uddhav Thackeray, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have so far extended their support to the AAP. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar as well as his deputy Tejaswi Yadav and RJD leader have also supported Kejriwal in the matter. The AAP national convenor has requested for time to meet Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi to seek their support against the ordinance. NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will meet his Tamil Nadu and Jharkhand counterparts to drum up support in opposing the central ordinance on control over administrative services in the national capital. "Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (June 1) to seek DMK's support against Centre's unconstitutional-undemocratic 'Anti-Delhi' Ordinance," he tweeted on Wednesday. Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (1st June) to seek DMK's support against Centre's unconstitutional-undemocratic 'Anti-Delhi' Ordinance.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) May 31, 2023 "Day after tomorrow, on June 2, I will meet Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren in Ranchi. Will seek his support against the ordinance promulgated by Modi government against the people of Delhi," he said in another tweet. 2 @HemantSorenJMM Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) May 31, 2023 The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo has been reaching out to leaders of non-BJP parties to garner support against the ordinance so that the Centre's bid to replace it through a bill is defeated when it is brought in Parliament. The Centre had on May 19 promulgated the ordinance to create an authority for the transfer and posting of Group-A officers in Delhi, which the AAP government had called a deception with the Supreme Court verdict on control of services. The ordinance came a week after the apex court handed over the control of services in Delhi, excluding police, public order and land, to the elected government. It seeks to set up a National Capital Civil Service Authority for the transfer of and disciplinary proceedings against Group-A officers from the DANICS cadre. The Centre will have to bring a bill in Parliament to replace the ordinance within six months of its promulgation. Transfer and postings of all officers of the Delhi government were under the executive control of the lieutenant governor before the top court's May 11 verdict. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief leader Uddhav Thackeray, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have so far extended their support to the AAP. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar as well as his deputy Tejaswi Yadav and RJD leader have also supported Kejriwal in the matter. The AAP national convenor has requested for time to meet Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi to seek their support against the ordinance. By PTI MUMBAI: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of the Central Railway and the Maharashtra police on Wednesday rescued 59 children from human traffickers by conducting an operation on a Bihar-Pune train, and arrested five accused, officials said. These children were rescued from Danapur-Pune Special Express train at Bhusawal and Manmad, located in Jalgaon and Nashik districts, respectively, in Maharashtra, they said. "On the basis of reliable information, the RPF along with the local police and members of an NGO rushed to the spot and conducted a check at the Bhusawal station. A total of 29 children aged between eight and 15 years were rescued. Later, another 30 children in the same age group were rescued from the train at Manmad. Five persons were arrested on the charge of human trafficking," an RPF official said. The exercise was carried out under 'Operation AAHT', he said. As per the preliminary information, these children were being brought from Bihar and sent to Sangli, the official said, adding that the five accused were booked under the anti-human trafficking laws. The accused were produced in a court, he said. In a tweet, the RPF said, "PRAYAS with state police came together to bust a child trafficking ring, leading to the rescue of 59 children with arrest of 5 traffickers at Bhusawal and Manmad stations. A powerful collaboration making a tangible difference in the fight against exploitation." MUMBAI: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) of the Central Railway and the Maharashtra police on Wednesday rescued 59 children from human traffickers by conducting an operation on a Bihar-Pune train, and arrested five accused, officials said. These children were rescued from Danapur-Pune Special Express train at Bhusawal and Manmad, located in Jalgaon and Nashik districts, respectively, in Maharashtra, they said. "On the basis of reliable information, the RPF along with the local police and members of an NGO rushed to the spot and conducted a check at the Bhusawal station. A total of 29 children aged between eight and 15 years were rescued. Later, another 30 children in the same age group were rescued from the train at Manmad. Five persons were arrested on the charge of human trafficking," an RPF official said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The exercise was carried out under 'Operation AAHT', he said. As per the preliminary information, these children were being brought from Bihar and sent to Sangli, the official said, adding that the five accused were booked under the anti-human trafficking laws. The accused were produced in a court, he said. In a tweet, the RPF said, "PRAYAS with state police came together to bust a child trafficking ring, leading to the rescue of 59 children with arrest of 5 traffickers at Bhusawal and Manmad stations. A powerful collaboration making a tangible difference in the fight against exploitation." Prasanta Mazumdar By Express News Service GUWAHATI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday visited Moreh in Tengnoupal and Kangpokpi two more violence-hit districts in Manipur, and held discussions with various organisations towards restoring normalcy. The Home Minister who arrived in the state two days ago to broker peace between warring Meitei and Kuki communities had held a series of meetings with Meitei organisations in Imphal and Kuki organisations in Churachandpur on Tuesday. He also took stock of the security situation with senior officials. "Held a meeting with the delegations of Kuki and other communities at Moreh. They expressed strong support for the governments initiatives to restore normalcy in Manipur," Shah tweeted on Wednesday. At both Moreh and Kangpokpi, he was accompanied by Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla and Intelligence Bureau Chief Tapan Kumar Deka among others. Moreh, a trade hub on the India-Myanmar border, has a mixed population of Tamil, Nepali, Bihari, Rajasthani, Bengali and Punjabi, besides Meitei and Kuki communities. The Kuki organisations reiterated the demand for a "separate administration" for the community and the immediate withdrawal of Manipur police commandos from Moreh. In a memorandum submitted to him, they further demanded that Meitei radical groups "Arambai Tenggol" and "Meitei Leepun" be declared outlawed organisations after alleging their involvement in the violence. The other demands included helicopter service from Moreh to Aizawl in Mizoram and Guwahati and a supply of essential commodities. A Kuki organisation claimed Shah had responded positively to the demands on the withdrawal of police commandos and helicopter service. In both places, he appealed to people to maintain peace. Meanwhile, a civilian was injured in an exchange of fire between security forces and suspected militants in Imphal East district. Another gunfight was reported from Sugnu in Kakching district on Tuesday night. At least, 80 people were killed and over 300 others injured in the nearly month-long ethnic violence which broke out on May 3 after a "Tribal Solidarity March" which was organised by a tribal students union to oppose the move for the inclusion of Meiteis the largest community in the Scheduled Tribes list. Earlier, the High Court of Manipur had asked the state government to consider the inclusion of the Meiteis in the ST list. 'Dont block roads, surrender looted arms' Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday appealed to people not to block roads or cause hindrance to the movement of security personnel and relief material and return looted weapons. He said at many locations, people were violating curfew and blocking roads, thereby causing obstacles to the supply of relief material for inmates in relief camps and the movement of security personnel for meeting security threats from illegal armed groups in conflict areas in the foothills and interior locations. "Such roadblocks are increasing the hardship of our already traumatized people in relief camps, including pregnant women and young children," he said referring to the difficulties being faced in the transportation of health personnel, medicines, food, milk and water meant for the inmates. "In order to save lives and property of innocent civilians and to assuage hardship faced in relief camps, I appeal to the people of Manipur not to cause roadblocks and hindrances on the free movement of security personnel and relief material," Singh said. Further, he appealed to those, who had looted arms and ammunition from police battalions and police stations during the violence, to return the same or face actions as per the law. GUWAHATI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday visited Moreh in Tengnoupal and Kangpokpi two more violence-hit districts in Manipur, and held discussions with various organisations towards restoring normalcy. The Home Minister who arrived in the state two days ago to broker peace between warring Meitei and Kuki communities had held a series of meetings with Meitei organisations in Imphal and Kuki organisations in Churachandpur on Tuesday. He also took stock of the security situation with senior officials. "Held a meeting with the delegations of Kuki and other communities at Moreh. They expressed strong support for the governments initiatives to restore normalcy in Manipur," Shah tweeted on Wednesday.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); At both Moreh and Kangpokpi, he was accompanied by Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla and Intelligence Bureau Chief Tapan Kumar Deka among others. Moreh, a trade hub on the India-Myanmar border, has a mixed population of Tamil, Nepali, Bihari, Rajasthani, Bengali and Punjabi, besides Meitei and Kuki communities. The Kuki organisations reiterated the demand for a "separate administration" for the community and the immediate withdrawal of Manipur police commandos from Moreh. In a memorandum submitted to him, they further demanded that Meitei radical groups "Arambai Tenggol" and "Meitei Leepun" be declared outlawed organisations after alleging their involvement in the violence. The other demands included helicopter service from Moreh to Aizawl in Mizoram and Guwahati and a supply of essential commodities. A Kuki organisation claimed Shah had responded positively to the demands on the withdrawal of police commandos and helicopter service. In both places, he appealed to people to maintain peace. Meanwhile, a civilian was injured in an exchange of fire between security forces and suspected militants in Imphal East district. Another gunfight was reported from Sugnu in Kakching district on Tuesday night. At least, 80 people were killed and over 300 others injured in the nearly month-long ethnic violence which broke out on May 3 after a "Tribal Solidarity March" which was organised by a tribal students union to oppose the move for the inclusion of Meiteis the largest community in the Scheduled Tribes list. Earlier, the High Court of Manipur had asked the state government to consider the inclusion of the Meiteis in the ST list. 'Dont block roads, surrender looted arms' Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday appealed to people not to block roads or cause hindrance to the movement of security personnel and relief material and return looted weapons. He said at many locations, people were violating curfew and blocking roads, thereby causing obstacles to the supply of relief material for inmates in relief camps and the movement of security personnel for meeting security threats from illegal armed groups in conflict areas in the foothills and interior locations. "Such roadblocks are increasing the hardship of our already traumatized people in relief camps, including pregnant women and young children," he said referring to the difficulties being faced in the transportation of health personnel, medicines, food, milk and water meant for the inmates. "In order to save lives and property of innocent civilians and to assuage hardship faced in relief camps, I appeal to the people of Manipur not to cause roadblocks and hindrances on the free movement of security personnel and relief material," Singh said. Further, he appealed to those, who had looted arms and ammunition from police battalions and police stations during the violence, to return the same or face actions as per the law. By PTI SANTA CLARA: There are people in India who think they know more than God and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "one such specimen", Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said. Reacting sharply to Gandhi's targeting of Prime Minister Modi, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi on Wednesday described the former Congress president as a "fake Gandhi" and as a person "who knows nothing" but has become an expert on everything. Speaking at the 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' event organised by Indian Overseas Congress USA in Santa Clara in the US state of California on Tuesday, Gandhi said these people are "absolutely convinced" that they know everything and can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army. "The world is too big and complicated for any person to know everything. That is the disease - There is a group of people in India who are absolutely convinced they know everything. They think they know even more than God. They can sit with God and explain to him what's going on. And of course, our prime minister is one such specimen. If you sat Modiji with God, he will explain to God how the universe works and God will get confused about what have I created," he said, evoking peals of laughter from hundreds of his Indian American supporters. "They think they can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army. But at the core of it is mediocrity. They're not ready to listen!" he said. Responding to Gandhi's speech, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Joshi claimed that the Congress leader's knowledge of history did not go beyond his family. "It is funny how someone who knows nothing is suddenly an expert on everything. A man whose history knowledge does not go beyond his family is talking about history," the senior BJP leader said in New Delhi. "A man who claimed to produce gold out of potatoes is giving lectures about science and a man who never ventured beyond family affairs now wants to lead India's warfare," Joshi said. "No Mr. Fake Gandhi! The core of India is its culture. Unlike you, who use foreign soil to tarnish the country, Indians are very proud of their history and can very well defend their geography," the Parliamentary Affairs Minister said. ALSO READ | Khalistani supporters heckle Rahul Gandhi at an event in US Gandhi's event was attended by community members not only from Silicon Valley but also from Los Angeles and Canada, said President of Indian Overseas Congress Mohinder Singh Gilzian. Gandhi, 52, told the Indian Americans that the idea of India was under attack and is being challenged. Talking about Sengol row, Gandhi said that Modi and his government cannot address issues like unemployment, price rise, the spread of anger and hatred. "The new Parliament building is a distraction. The BJP can't really discuss these issues so they have to do the sceptre thing. Lying down and doing all that. Aren't you happy that I'm not lying down?," Gandhi said, referring to the Sengol that was installed in the new Parliament building by Modi on Sunday. He applauded the Indian Americans for holding up the Indian flag in America, showing the American people what it means to be an Indian by respecting their culture and learning from them while also allowing the Americans to learn from them. "You make us all proud. When we think of our country, you are all our ambassadors. When America says Indian people are extremely intelligent. Indian people are masters of IT, Indian people are respectful. All these ideas that have come, they've come because of you and because of your actions and your behaviours," he said. Gandhi said the poor and people from minority communities feel helpless today in India. "Indians do not believe in hating each other. A small group of people who control the system and the media are stoking the flames of hatred," he said. "Congress' stand on the Women's Reservation Bill is clear. We're committed to getting the bill passed. We have to give women their deserved space in the political system, businesses and running the country," he said. A few Khalistani supporters tried to disrupt Gandhi's speech but were taken out by the security personnel. Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda, who accompanied Gandhi at the event, said that India needs a "young mind" like Gandhi to lead the country. "We need someone with an open mind. We need someone who has broader exposure, and global experience. And that's the reason we are all here meeting and interacting with a large number of people," he said. "I know that the road ahead is pretty complicated. It's not that simple. Our idea of India is very different," Pitroda said. Gandhi arrived here on Tuesday on a three-city US tour during which he will interact with the Indian diaspora and meet American lawmakers. Last week, Pitroda said Gandhi's visit is aimed at promoting shared values and a vision of "real democracy." "The purpose of his (Gandhi's) trip is to connect, interact and begin a new conversation with various individuals, institutions and media, including the Indian diaspora that is growing in numbers in the United States and abroad to promote the shared values and vision of the real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over," Pitroda said in a statement. SANTA CLARA: There are people in India who think they know more than God and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "one such specimen", Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said. Reacting sharply to Gandhi's targeting of Prime Minister Modi, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi on Wednesday described the former Congress president as a "fake Gandhi" and as a person "who knows nothing" but has become an expert on everything. Speaking at the 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' event organised by Indian Overseas Congress USA in Santa Clara in the US state of California on Tuesday, Gandhi said these people are "absolutely convinced" that they know everything and can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "The world is too big and complicated for any person to know everything. That is the disease - There is a group of people in India who are absolutely convinced they know everything. They think they know even more than God. They can sit with God and explain to him what's going on. And of course, our prime minister is one such specimen. If you sat Modiji with God, he will explain to God how the universe works and God will get confused about what have I created," he said, evoking peals of laughter from hundreds of his Indian American supporters. "They think they can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army. But at the core of it is mediocrity. They're not ready to listen!" he said. Responding to Gandhi's speech, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Joshi claimed that the Congress leader's knowledge of history did not go beyond his family. "It is funny how someone who knows nothing is suddenly an expert on everything. A man whose history knowledge does not go beyond his family is talking about history," the senior BJP leader said in New Delhi. "A man who claimed to produce gold out of potatoes is giving lectures about science and a man who never ventured beyond family affairs now wants to lead India's warfare," Joshi said. "No Mr. Fake Gandhi! The core of India is its culture. Unlike you, who use foreign soil to tarnish the country, Indians are very proud of their history and can very well defend their geography," the Parliamentary Affairs Minister said. ALSO READ | Khalistani supporters heckle Rahul Gandhi at an event in US Gandhi's event was attended by community members not only from Silicon Valley but also from Los Angeles and Canada, said President of Indian Overseas Congress Mohinder Singh Gilzian. Gandhi, 52, told the Indian Americans that the idea of India was under attack and is being challenged. Talking about Sengol row, Gandhi said that Modi and his government cannot address issues like unemployment, price rise, the spread of anger and hatred. "The new Parliament building is a distraction. The BJP can't really discuss these issues so they have to do the sceptre thing. Lying down and doing all that. Aren't you happy that I'm not lying down?," Gandhi said, referring to the Sengol that was installed in the new Parliament building by Modi on Sunday. He applauded the Indian Americans for holding up the Indian flag in America, showing the American people what it means to be an Indian by respecting their culture and learning from them while also allowing the Americans to learn from them. "You make us all proud. When we think of our country, you are all our ambassadors. When America says Indian people are extremely intelligent. Indian people are masters of IT, Indian people are respectful. All these ideas that have come, they've come because of you and because of your actions and your behaviours," he said. Gandhi said the poor and people from minority communities feel helpless today in India. "Indians do not believe in hating each other. A small group of people who control the system and the media are stoking the flames of hatred," he said. "Congress' stand on the Women's Reservation Bill is clear. We're committed to getting the bill passed. We have to give women their deserved space in the political system, businesses and running the country," he said. A few Khalistani supporters tried to disrupt Gandhi's speech but were taken out by the security personnel. Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda, who accompanied Gandhi at the event, said that India needs a "young mind" like Gandhi to lead the country. "We need someone with an open mind. We need someone who has broader exposure, and global experience. And that's the reason we are all here meeting and interacting with a large number of people," he said. "I know that the road ahead is pretty complicated. It's not that simple. Our idea of India is very different," Pitroda said. Gandhi arrived here on Tuesday on a three-city US tour during which he will interact with the Indian diaspora and meet American lawmakers. Last week, Pitroda said Gandhi's visit is aimed at promoting shared values and a vision of "real democracy." "The purpose of his (Gandhi's) trip is to connect, interact and begin a new conversation with various individuals, institutions and media, including the Indian diaspora that is growing in numbers in the United States and abroad to promote the shared values and vision of the real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over," Pitroda said in a statement. Yeshi Seli By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, popularly known as Prachanda, has arrived in Delhi for his first state visit to India after he was sworn in as PM in December 2022. As announced after he assumed charge, India is his first port of call. However, some people back home in Nepal are not happy with his decision to visit the Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain. "Prachandas decision to visit Ujjain doesnt befit a communist leader. He is in India in his official capacity and we would have preferred if he had decided to hold business meetings in Mumbai or Hyderabad, rather than visit Mahakaleshwar temple. Nepalese economy is in dire need of growth and that should have been his focus area. Besides, the political situation in Nepal is precarious at present," Professor Vijay Kant Karna, former Nepalese Ambassador to Denmark, told The New Indian Express. Sources point out that Prachandas wife is critically ill and one of the reasons for him to visit Mahakaleshwar could be to pray for her health. "We would have much preferred if he had given credence to a business meeting rather than head for a religious place specially because he is a communist," said a member of a Nepalese trade organisation. ALSO READ | 25-year power pact, cross-border digital payments on agenda for Prachanda's India visit However, this is not the first time that a Nepalese PM is visiting a place of religious significance. When the past Nepalese PM, Sher Bahadur Deuba came to India in April 2022, he visited the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi. Deuba and his wife also performed the 'rudrabhishek' in the Kashi Vishwanath temple. Meanwhile, Prachanda will be meeting PM Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and announce bilateral agreements with India which include digital payments between the two countries, power purchase agreements, air and rail connectivity among a host of other decisions. Back home in Nepal, Prachanda is facing a challenge after the Bhutanese refugee scam was unearthed and he is seen to be losing popular support as top political leaders are involved. Around 875 Nepalese citizens were hoodwinked and made to shell out millions with the lure of taking them to the US as Bhutanese refugees. Speculation is rife that the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is involved in the investigation since the US has permitted Bhutanese people from Nepal to seek asylum. Prachanda has denied that the FBI is involved in the investigation. Among those implicated in the investigation are a former deputy Prime Minister, home ministers, a home secretary, a police chief, prominent Bhutanese refugee rights activists and family members of political leaders. NEW DELHI: Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, popularly known as Prachanda, has arrived in Delhi for his first state visit to India after he was sworn in as PM in December 2022. As announced after he assumed charge, India is his first port of call. However, some people back home in Nepal are not happy with his decision to visit the Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain. "Prachandas decision to visit Ujjain doesnt befit a communist leader. He is in India in his official capacity and we would have preferred if he had decided to hold business meetings in Mumbai or Hyderabad, rather than visit Mahakaleshwar temple. Nepalese economy is in dire need of growth and that should have been his focus area. Besides, the political situation in Nepal is precarious at present," Professor Vijay Kant Karna, former Nepalese Ambassador to Denmark, told The New Indian Express. Sources point out that Prachandas wife is critically ill and one of the reasons for him to visit Mahakaleshwar could be to pray for her health.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "We would have much preferred if he had given credence to a business meeting rather than head for a religious place specially because he is a communist," said a member of a Nepalese trade organisation. ALSO READ | 25-year power pact, cross-border digital payments on agenda for Prachanda's India visit However, this is not the first time that a Nepalese PM is visiting a place of religious significance. When the past Nepalese PM, Sher Bahadur Deuba came to India in April 2022, he visited the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi. Deuba and his wife also performed the 'rudrabhishek' in the Kashi Vishwanath temple. Meanwhile, Prachanda will be meeting PM Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and announce bilateral agreements with India which include digital payments between the two countries, power purchase agreements, air and rail connectivity among a host of other decisions. Back home in Nepal, Prachanda is facing a challenge after the Bhutanese refugee scam was unearthed and he is seen to be losing popular support as top political leaders are involved. Around 875 Nepalese citizens were hoodwinked and made to shell out millions with the lure of taking them to the US as Bhutanese refugees. Speculation is rife that the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is involved in the investigation since the US has permitted Bhutanese people from Nepal to seek asylum. Prachanda has denied that the FBI is involved in the investigation. Among those implicated in the investigation are a former deputy Prime Minister, home ministers, a home secretary, a police chief, prominent Bhutanese refugee rights activists and family members of political leaders. By PTI BENGALURU: Crediting the "team effort" of Congress leaders and workers for the party's victory in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said the government is fully committed to fulfil the five guarantees and will implement the 'Gruha Lakshmi' scheme within a month to grant Rs 2,000 to every woman head of a family. He termed the fight put up by the Congress as a "battle for survival" and said for him personally it was a "do-or-die battle." In an exclusive interview to 'The Week', he also said, "Of course, it is quite natural. Blood is thicker than water. But we have to (compromise). Sometimes politics is full of sharing and caring," when asked whether the Vokkaliga community was upset when he was not made the chief minister. On the Congress' poll promises, he said, "We are going to implement it (the guarantees), come what may. We have a cabinet meeting on June 1. Arranging about Rs 20,000 crore to Rs 26,000 crore will not be a problem. We will work on arranging the remaining Rs 30,000 crore." "Whatever we have promised, we will definitely deliver. We will come out with a plan within the first week of June. We are already speaking to the officials to work out a system," he also said on the implementation of the 'Gruha Lakshmi' scheme. Shivakumar said the family has to decide to whom the money should go through direct benefit transfer - wife or mother, and should provide details of their bank accounts for which officers have to be delegated to visit every house. Asked how long will it take to implement the scheme, he said, "We will implement it in a month. We will announce it and whatever delay, we will come out with a (solution)." He said some people have written to the government that they do not wish to receive the money, but will not bar anyone from taking it. "We do not want to bar anyone. We promised them. If they want, let them take it." The Karnataka Congress chief said the "karyakartas" (party cadres) are the party's roots and we should see that we strengthen them. "The voice of the cadre should be the voice of the leadership. This is what I look for. And, I have had 50 per cent success; 50 per cent is yet to be done. I will try to do my best." He said the primary reason for the BJP's defeat was that it could not deliver what it had promised. He said the stalwarts from the state who have ruled in the previous years had built Karnataka's brand name and that was being dismantled by the BJP. On him taking on the BJP despite cases against him, he said, "It is not only me; it is a team effort. No doubt I stood strongly. And I was ready to face everything. There was no choice. I had to fight this battle for survival. I knew that Karnataka would be the opening for the entire country. It was a do-or-die battle for me. Ultimately, I could do it (deliver Karnataka)." Shivakumar said Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra helped bring enthusiasm in the party and people walked with him. Asked whether he was happy with his current position, he said, "Whether I am happy or not is not important. I will be happy when we deliver a government with good governance, when we keep our promises when we fulfil the aspirations of the people. Individual things will disappear. The confidence that the people of Karnataka have restored in us is very, very important. We should keep (it). I will be the happiest when all my promises have been delivered." Shivakumar said he would not want to disclose what has been decided between the party high command and him and between Siddaramaiah and him on sharing of power. "I will not disclose it. Ultimately, we have come to some understanding." On Siddaramaiah becoming the chief minister within eight years of joining the Congress, he said, "he is definitely a lucky man." Asked whether the Congress will ban the Bajrang Dal, he said if anyone tries to disturb the peace through moral policing, they cannot as there is the law of the land. "There is the Constitution here. We have to protect the Constitution. Is it right for a police officer to wear saffron and take a photograph? The image of a police officer in Karnataka is high. But this time I think even the (former) chief minister encouraged it. We asked who was destroying peace." He also skirted a question on whether beef will come back to Karnataka, saying he does not want to get into that controversy. "Let me focus on development, our promises." On his vision for Karnataka in the next five years, the Karnataka Congress strongman said, "My vision is to bring back the glory that Karnataka had; to give a corruption-free, transparent government, a government with good governance. This is our vision. Bengaluru is a top priority. If Bengaluru gets proper attention, funds will come, and the same funds can be transferred to the rural areas. This is what we are looking at." He also assured that the Congress government will investigate the previous government's corruption and said, "We have already assured the people that we will investigate." Asked whether the BJP will attempt Operation Lotus again, he said, "Let them recover from this defeat first. The entire double engine was here. What all they could do, they have done. Ultimately, my numbers never reduced, my confidence level never reduced. Our planning did not change." BENGALURU: Crediting the "team effort" of Congress leaders and workers for the party's victory in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said the government is fully committed to fulfil the five guarantees and will implement the 'Gruha Lakshmi' scheme within a month to grant Rs 2,000 to every woman head of a family. He termed the fight put up by the Congress as a "battle for survival" and said for him personally it was a "do-or-die battle." In an exclusive interview to 'The Week', he also said, "Of course, it is quite natural. Blood is thicker than water. But we have to (compromise). Sometimes politics is full of sharing and caring," when asked whether the Vokkaliga community was upset when he was not made the chief minister.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); On the Congress' poll promises, he said, "We are going to implement it (the guarantees), come what may. We have a cabinet meeting on June 1. Arranging about Rs 20,000 crore to Rs 26,000 crore will not be a problem. We will work on arranging the remaining Rs 30,000 crore." "Whatever we have promised, we will definitely deliver. We will come out with a plan within the first week of June. We are already speaking to the officials to work out a system," he also said on the implementation of the 'Gruha Lakshmi' scheme. Shivakumar said the family has to decide to whom the money should go through direct benefit transfer - wife or mother, and should provide details of their bank accounts for which officers have to be delegated to visit every house. Asked how long will it take to implement the scheme, he said, "We will implement it in a month. We will announce it and whatever delay, we will come out with a (solution)." He said some people have written to the government that they do not wish to receive the money, but will not bar anyone from taking it. "We do not want to bar anyone. We promised them. If they want, let them take it." The Karnataka Congress chief said the "karyakartas" (party cadres) are the party's roots and we should see that we strengthen them. "The voice of the cadre should be the voice of the leadership. This is what I look for. And, I have had 50 per cent success; 50 per cent is yet to be done. I will try to do my best." He said the primary reason for the BJP's defeat was that it could not deliver what it had promised. He said the stalwarts from the state who have ruled in the previous years had built Karnataka's brand name and that was being dismantled by the BJP. On him taking on the BJP despite cases against him, he said, "It is not only me; it is a team effort. No doubt I stood strongly. And I was ready to face everything. There was no choice. I had to fight this battle for survival. I knew that Karnataka would be the opening for the entire country. It was a do-or-die battle for me. Ultimately, I could do it (deliver Karnataka)." Shivakumar said Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra helped bring enthusiasm in the party and people walked with him. Asked whether he was happy with his current position, he said, "Whether I am happy or not is not important. I will be happy when we deliver a government with good governance, when we keep our promises when we fulfil the aspirations of the people. Individual things will disappear. The confidence that the people of Karnataka have restored in us is very, very important. We should keep (it). I will be the happiest when all my promises have been delivered." Shivakumar said he would not want to disclose what has been decided between the party high command and him and between Siddaramaiah and him on sharing of power. "I will not disclose it. Ultimately, we have come to some understanding." On Siddaramaiah becoming the chief minister within eight years of joining the Congress, he said, "he is definitely a lucky man." Asked whether the Congress will ban the Bajrang Dal, he said if anyone tries to disturb the peace through moral policing, they cannot as there is the law of the land. "There is the Constitution here. We have to protect the Constitution. Is it right for a police officer to wear saffron and take a photograph? The image of a police officer in Karnataka is high. But this time I think even the (former) chief minister encouraged it. We asked who was destroying peace." He also skirted a question on whether beef will come back to Karnataka, saying he does not want to get into that controversy. "Let me focus on development, our promises." On his vision for Karnataka in the next five years, the Karnataka Congress strongman said, "My vision is to bring back the glory that Karnataka had; to give a corruption-free, transparent government, a government with good governance. This is our vision. Bengaluru is a top priority. If Bengaluru gets proper attention, funds will come, and the same funds can be transferred to the rural areas. This is what we are looking at." He also assured that the Congress government will investigate the previous government's corruption and said, "We have already assured the people that we will investigate." Asked whether the BJP will attempt Operation Lotus again, he said, "Let them recover from this defeat first. The entire double engine was here. What all they could do, they have done. Ultimately, my numbers never reduced, my confidence level never reduced. Our planning did not change." By PTI HYDERABAD: The Telangana High Court on Wednesday granted anticipatory bail to YSR Congress Party MP Y S Avinash Reddy, in connection with the murder of former minister and his uncle Y S Vivekananda Reddy. The court also directed Avinash Reddy, Lok Sabha MP from Kadapa in Andhra Pradesh, not to leave the country without prior permission of the CBI, till the investigation was complete and that he shall not tamper with the prosecution witnesses or alter any evidence. "The petitioner shall cooperate with the investigation and shall appear before the CBI Police every Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm., till the end of June 2023 and shall regularly appear as and when he is required for investigation," Justice M Laxman said in his order. The petitioner shall be released on bail in the event of his arrest by the CBI, on the execution of a personal bond of Rs 5 lakhs only with two sureties for a like sum each to the satisfaction of the CBI, the order said. Avinash Reddy, cousin of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is under the CBI scanner and has been examined several times by the central agency this year. Avinash Reddy's father Y S Bhaskar Reddy, was arrested by the CBI on April 16 in relation to the murder of Vivekananda Reddy, and he had subsequently moved the Telangana High Court with the anticipatory bail plea. While seeking enlargement of the petitioner (Avinash Reddy) on anticipatory bail, his lawyer had contended that to date, Avinash Reddy was not shown as accused in connection with the alleged larger conspiracy. Pursuant to the summons, the petitioner was examined by the CBI on seven occasions from January 2023 to April 2023, but at any point in time the agency did not ventilate the grievance of non-co-operation from the petitioner, the counsel submitted. Avinash Reddy's counsel contended that he was being implicated to rope in a larger conspiracy without there being any admissible evidence, which has been collected so far in the investigation and attempts are being made to frame the petitioner with ulterior motive to spoil his political career. The CBI in the counter affidavit opposed the grant of anticipatory bail to Avinash Reddy and submitted that inconsistencies were found in his statements, and he is not coming forth with respect to the larger conspiracy behind the murder. In its additional counter affidavit, the central agency further submitted that Avinash Reddy despite being issued notices did not appear before it on May 16, May 19, and 22. Avinash Reddy had sent an intimation on May 21 that he has to take care of his mother, who is admitted at a hospital in Kurnool, and requested to defer his appearance by 7 days. On May 22, a CBI team proceeded to the hospital in Kurnool in order to "effect arrest" of Avinash Reddy. However, a large number of supporters of the Kadapa MP gathered at the hospital causing apprehension of law and order problems in the event of his arrest, the CBI submitted. The CBI further submitted that the Supreme Court has given directions to it to complete the investigation by June 30 2023, and Avinash Reddy is deliberately avoiding the investigation and creating hindrances in completing the investigation of the case and sought for dismissing his anticipatory bail application. The Telangana High Court in its order observed: "From the investigation done so far, there is no allegation at any point of time CBI claimed about the interference of the petitioner in the investigation and involved in tampering of evidence and threatening the witnesses and the complainant, except the allegation touching the destruction of the scene of offence. The gravity of the accusation is not yet clearly brought on record by the CBI so far. The entire case rests upon hearsay evidence and assumptive evidence. No direct evidence is available against the petitioner to prove his participation in larger conspiracy. They tried to rely upon the improved case of the witnesses and the approver. In the said background, this Court does not find any justification for a custodial interrogation of the petitioner by the CBI authorities and hence, this Court inclines to extend the anticipatory bail to the petitioner with certain conditions." Vivekananda Reddy, one of the brothers of the late Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, was found murdered at his residence in Pulivendula in Kadapa district, on the night of March 15, 2019, weeks before the Assembly elections in the State. The case was initially probed by a special investigation team (SIT) of the state crime investigation department, but was handed over to the CBI in July 2020. The CBI filed a charge sheet in the murder case on October 26, 2021 and followed it up with a supplementary charge sheet on January 31, 2022. HYDERABAD: The Telangana High Court on Wednesday granted anticipatory bail to YSR Congress Party MP Y S Avinash Reddy, in connection with the murder of former minister and his uncle Y S Vivekananda Reddy. The court also directed Avinash Reddy, Lok Sabha MP from Kadapa in Andhra Pradesh, not to leave the country without prior permission of the CBI, till the investigation was complete and that he shall not tamper with the prosecution witnesses or alter any evidence. "The petitioner shall cooperate with the investigation and shall appear before the CBI Police every Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm., till the end of June 2023 and shall regularly appear as and when he is required for investigation," Justice M Laxman said in his order.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The petitioner shall be released on bail in the event of his arrest by the CBI, on the execution of a personal bond of Rs 5 lakhs only with two sureties for a like sum each to the satisfaction of the CBI, the order said. Avinash Reddy, cousin of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is under the CBI scanner and has been examined several times by the central agency this year. Avinash Reddy's father Y S Bhaskar Reddy, was arrested by the CBI on April 16 in relation to the murder of Vivekananda Reddy, and he had subsequently moved the Telangana High Court with the anticipatory bail plea. While seeking enlargement of the petitioner (Avinash Reddy) on anticipatory bail, his lawyer had contended that to date, Avinash Reddy was not shown as accused in connection with the alleged larger conspiracy. Pursuant to the summons, the petitioner was examined by the CBI on seven occasions from January 2023 to April 2023, but at any point in time the agency did not ventilate the grievance of non-co-operation from the petitioner, the counsel submitted. Avinash Reddy's counsel contended that he was being implicated to rope in a larger conspiracy without there being any admissible evidence, which has been collected so far in the investigation and attempts are being made to frame the petitioner with ulterior motive to spoil his political career. The CBI in the counter affidavit opposed the grant of anticipatory bail to Avinash Reddy and submitted that inconsistencies were found in his statements, and he is not coming forth with respect to the larger conspiracy behind the murder. In its additional counter affidavit, the central agency further submitted that Avinash Reddy despite being issued notices did not appear before it on May 16, May 19, and 22. Avinash Reddy had sent an intimation on May 21 that he has to take care of his mother, who is admitted at a hospital in Kurnool, and requested to defer his appearance by 7 days. On May 22, a CBI team proceeded to the hospital in Kurnool in order to "effect arrest" of Avinash Reddy. However, a large number of supporters of the Kadapa MP gathered at the hospital causing apprehension of law and order problems in the event of his arrest, the CBI submitted. The CBI further submitted that the Supreme Court has given directions to it to complete the investigation by June 30 2023, and Avinash Reddy is deliberately avoiding the investigation and creating hindrances in completing the investigation of the case and sought for dismissing his anticipatory bail application. The Telangana High Court in its order observed: "From the investigation done so far, there is no allegation at any point of time CBI claimed about the interference of the petitioner in the investigation and involved in tampering of evidence and threatening the witnesses and the complainant, except the allegation touching the destruction of the scene of offence. The gravity of the accusation is not yet clearly brought on record by the CBI so far. The entire case rests upon hearsay evidence and assumptive evidence. No direct evidence is available against the petitioner to prove his participation in larger conspiracy. They tried to rely upon the improved case of the witnesses and the approver. In the said background, this Court does not find any justification for a custodial interrogation of the petitioner by the CBI authorities and hence, this Court inclines to extend the anticipatory bail to the petitioner with certain conditions." Vivekananda Reddy, one of the brothers of the late Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy, was found murdered at his residence in Pulivendula in Kadapa district, on the night of March 15, 2019, weeks before the Assembly elections in the State. The case was initially probed by a special investigation team (SIT) of the state crime investigation department, but was handed over to the CBI in July 2020. The CBI filed a charge sheet in the murder case on October 26, 2021 and followed it up with a supplementary charge sheet on January 31, 2022. By AFP BEIJING: China blamed India on Wednesday for a tit-for-tat visa spat in which they have effectively expelled each other's journalists, adding to tensions between the neighbouring powers. China's foreign ministry accused the Indian government of arbitrarily shortening visas for Chinese journalists and failing to renew visas since 2020. "The visa of the last remaining Chinese journalist in India has also expired," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular news conference. Beijing has had "no choice but to take appropriate countermeasures", Mao said without specifying such measures, in response to reports that China was retaliating by blocking Indian journalists' visa renewal applications. Ananth Krishnan, a correspondent for India's The Hindu newspaper, wrote on Twitter that there was now "only one accredited Indian reporter in Beijing". Mao said a return to normal was dependent on "whether India can work in the same direction as China, and provide the same convenience and assistance to Chinese journalists in India". Relations have been strained since a high-altitude border clash that killed 20 Indian soldiers and at least four Chinese troops in June 2020. China and India have since massed tens of thousands of soldiers along the border who remain there despite 18 rounds of talks between top military officials. India is also seeking to develop closer ties with Western countries, including Quad members the United States, Japan, and Australia, which see Delhi as an alternative to China. Beijing has not named a new ambassador to New Delhi since former envoy Sun Weidong left the post last year. China has used journalist visas to apply diplomatic pressure in the past, with Beijing expelling 13 US journalists in 2020 as relations between the rival superpowers plummeted at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. BEIJING: China blamed India on Wednesday for a tit-for-tat visa spat in which they have effectively expelled each other's journalists, adding to tensions between the neighbouring powers. China's foreign ministry accused the Indian government of arbitrarily shortening visas for Chinese journalists and failing to renew visas since 2020. "The visa of the last remaining Chinese journalist in India has also expired," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular news conference.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Beijing has had "no choice but to take appropriate countermeasures", Mao said without specifying such measures, in response to reports that China was retaliating by blocking Indian journalists' visa renewal applications. Ananth Krishnan, a correspondent for India's The Hindu newspaper, wrote on Twitter that there was now "only one accredited Indian reporter in Beijing". Mao said a return to normal was dependent on "whether India can work in the same direction as China, and provide the same convenience and assistance to Chinese journalists in India". Relations have been strained since a high-altitude border clash that killed 20 Indian soldiers and at least four Chinese troops in June 2020. China and India have since massed tens of thousands of soldiers along the border who remain there despite 18 rounds of talks between top military officials. India is also seeking to develop closer ties with Western countries, including Quad members the United States, Japan, and Australia, which see Delhi as an alternative to China. Beijing has not named a new ambassador to New Delhi since former envoy Sun Weidong left the post last year. China has used journalist visas to apply diplomatic pressure in the past, with Beijing expelling 13 US journalists in 2020 as relations between the rival superpowers plummeted at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Research sheds new light on cosmic development of amino acids Washington, May 29: Scientists use computer models of biological components found in meteorites to help them understand the origins of life on Earth. Research sheds new light on cosmic development of amino acids All biological amino acids on Earth appear exclusively in their left-handed form, but the reason underlying this observation is elusive. Recently, scientists from Japan uncovered new clues about the cosmic origin of this asymmetry. Based on the optical properties of amino acids found on the Murchison meteorite, they conducted physics-based simulations, revealing that the precursors to the biological amino acids may have determined the amino acid chirality during the early phase of galactic evolution.The Murchison meteorite is a meteorite that fell in Australia in 1969 near Murchison, Victoria. One of the oldest known remnants of the pre-Earth solar system, this meteorite played a pivotal role in confirming the presence of carbon molecules elsewhere in the universe.If you look at your hands, you will notice that they are mirror images of each other. However, no matter how hard you try to flip and rotate one hand, you will never be able to superimpose it perfectly over the other. Many molecules have a similar property called "chirality," which means that the "left-handed" (L) version of a molecule cannot be superimposed onto its "right-handed" (D) mirror image version. Even though both versions of a chiral molecule, called "enantiomers," have the same chemical formula, the way they interact with other molecules, especially with other chiral molecules, can vary immensely.Interestingly, one of the many mysteries surrounding the origin of life as we know it has to do with chirality. It turns out that biological amino acids (AAs) -- the building blocks of proteins -- on Earth appear only in one of their two possible enantiomeric forms, namely the L-form. However, if you synthesize AAs artificially, both L and D forms are produced in equal amounts. This suggests that, at some early point in the past, L-AAs must have come to dominate a hetero-chiral world. This phenomenon is known as "chiral symmetry breaking."Against this backdrop, a research team led by Assistant Professor Mitsuo Shoji from University of Tsukuba, Japan, conducted a study aimed at solving this mystery. As explained in their paper published in The Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters, the team sought to find evidence supporting the cosmic origin of the homochirality of AAs on Earth, as well as iron out some inconsistencies and contradictions in our previous understanding."The idea that homochirality may have originated in space was suggested after AAs were found in the Murchison meteorite that fell in Australia in 1969," explains Dr Shoji. Curiously enough, in the samples obtained from this meteorite, each of the L-enantiomers was more prevalent than its D-enantiomer counterpart. One popular explanation for this suggests that the asymmetry was induced by ultraviolet circularly polarized light (CPL) in the star-forming regions of our galaxy. Scientists verified that this type of radiation can, indeed, induce asymmetric photochemical reactions that, given enough time, would favour the production of L-AAs over D-AAs. However, the absorption properties of the AA isovaline (isovaline is a rare amino acid transported to earth by the Murchison meteorite) are opposite to those of the other AAs, meaning that the UV-based explanation alone is either insufficient or incorrect.Against this backdrop, Dr Shoji's team pursued an alternate hypothesis. Instead of far-UV radiation, they hypothesized that the chiral asymmetry was, in fact, induced specifically by the CP Lyman-a (Lya) emission line, a spectral line of hydrogen atom that permeated the early Milky Way. Moreover, instead of focusing only on photoreactions in AAs, the researchers investigated the possibility of the chiral asymmetry starting in the precursors to the AAs, namely amino propanals (APs) and amino nitriles (ANs).Through quantum mechanical calculations, the team analyzed Lya-induced reactions for producing AAs along the chemical pathway adopted in Strecker synthesis. They then noted the ratios of L- to D-enantiomers of AAs, APs, and ANs at each step of the process.The results showed that L-enantiomers of ANs are preferentially formed under right-handed CP (R-CP) Lya irradiation, with their enantiomeric ratios matching those for the corresponding AAs. "Taken together, our findings suggest that ANs underlie the origin of the homochirality," remarks Dr Shoji. "More specifically, irradiating AN precursors with R-CP Lya radiation lead to a higher ratio of L-enantiomers. The subsequent predominance of L-AAs is possible via reactions induced by water molecules and heat."The study thus brings us one step closer to understanding the complex history of our own biochemistry. The team emphasizes that more studies focused on ANs need to be conducted on future samples from asteroids and comets to validate their findings. "Further analyses and theoretical investigations of ANs and other prebiotic molecules related to sugars and nucleobases will provide new insights into the chemical evolution of molecules and, in turn, the origin of life," concludes an optimistic Shoji.ANI29 May 2023 Shared Recently! North Korea says it will launch 1st military spy satellite in June Pyongyang [North Korea], May 30: North Korea is all set to launch its first military spy satellite in June. The planned launch is aimed at tracking US military action on a real-time basis, reported Yonhap News Agency as quoting a senior official in charge of the North's military affairs. North Korea says it will launch 1st military spy satellite in June This comes a day after the North Korea notified Japan about its plan of launching a satellite between May 31 and June 11.Ri Pyong-Chol, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of the governing Worker's Party of Korea (WPK), said in a statement that North Korea's scheduled satellite launch is an "indispensable" action to bolster war readiness. The remark was broadcast by the North's official Korean Central News Agency.According to Ri in the English-language statement, North Korea's spy satellite, which will be launched in June, as well as various reconnaissance tools that are currently being tested, are "indispensable to tracking, monitoring, discriminating, controlling and coping with in advance in real time the dangerous military acts" of the US and South Korea, as per Yonhap.Without providing any further details, he also vowed to "expand reconnaissance and information means and improve various defensive and offensive weapons and have the timetables for carrying out their development plans."North Korea stated earlier this month that it had finished making the necessary preparations to launch its first military surveillance satellite atop a rocket, with Kim Jong-un approving the "future action plan."At a key party congress in 2021, the leader of the North Korea pledged to build advanced weaponry, including a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile, a nuclear-powered submarine, and a military reconnaissance satellite, according to Yonhap.Ri blasted the United States and South Korea for inflaming military tensions on the Korean Peninsula, criticising the South's plans to organise a multinational naval exercise to stop the trafficking of WMDs as well as the allies' largest-ever live-fire practise.He also criticised the United States for stepping up its "hostile air espionage activities" after sending out high-profile military surveillance planes over the Yellow Sea recently, as per Yonhap.Ri said, "We will comprehensively consider the present and future threats and put into more thoroughgoing practice the activities for strengthening all-inclusive and practical war deterrents."North Korea's planned satellite launch was "strongly" discouraged by South Korea on Monday, and Pyongyang was threatened with paying "due prices" if it went ahead with the launch.As it uses the same technology as ballistic missiles, North Korea's projected satellite launch would be in violation of many Security Council resolutions prohibiting its nuclear and missile programmes.Although many questioned the North's satellite capabilities, experts claimed that a spy satellite will enable the North in staging a precise strike against targets in combat scenarios by improving the country's surveillance power.The secret regime said in December of last year that it had carried out an "important, final-stage" test for the development of a spy satellite and had made available black-and-white images of South Korean cities taken by its "test satellite" from space, Yonhap News Agency reported.ANI30 May 2023 Shared Recently! CM Sukhu calls on Union Power Minister to hand over Shanan Project to Himachal before lease expiry Shimla, May 29: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu met Union Minister for Power RK Singh in New Delhi today and informed him that the 99-year-lease period of the Shanan Project was expiring in March 2024 as per the lease agreement and asked for issuing necessary directions to the Punjab government for taking steps for handing over the project to Himachal before the expiry of the lease period. CM Sukhu calls on Union Power Minister to hand over Shanan Project to Himachal before lease expiry He also apprised the Union Minister about the facts regarding the share of the state in Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) and demanded for 12 percent water royalty for the state. He said that due to the construction of projects by BBMB, many townships were compelled to face rehabilitation and numbers of oustees were not yet compensated even after fifty years.He urged that the state government may be allowed to impose free power royalty in all commissioned projects of BBMB. He said that this was the long pending demand of the state.He also raised the issue of raising the royalty of state in SJVNL, he said that free power royalty shares being received from SJVNL projects which have completed a debt period of 12 years, may be enhanced from existing free power royalty shares ranging from 12 to 30 per cent.Chief Minister also apprised the Minister about the initiatives of the state being taken for becoming a Green Energy State and urged to provide incentives including tax benefits for green hydrogen production to boost the production of green energy in the state.The Union Minister assured of all possible support to the state.Ram Subhag Singh, Chairman HP State Electricity Board Limited, Prabodh Saxena, Chief Secretary, Bharat Khera, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and Vivek Bhatia, Principal Private Secretary to CM were also present in the meeting.ANI30 May 2023 Shared Recently! Jubilant fans chant Dhoni Dhoni as CSK registers historic 5th IPL title win against GT at Ahmedabad Ahmedabad, May 30: Following Chennai Super Kings (CSK) win over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, ecstatic fans celebrated the Men in Yellow's historic victory by chanting MS Dhoni's name at the venue. Jubilant fans chant 'Dhoni' 'Dhoni' as CSK registers historic 5th IPL title win against GT at Ahmedabad The fans' enthusiasm and their love for MS Dhoni was clearly visible as they chanted 'Dhoni Dhoni'.A fifty partnership by Devon Conway and Ruturaj Gaikwad and cameos from Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) defeat Gujarat Titans (GT) in a final ball thriller by five wickets at Ahmedabad on Monday to clinch their fifth Indian Premier League (IPL) title.Soon after the match, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also extended his wishes and congratulated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on their historic win while crediting the success to CSK's captain MS Dhoni and also to Ravindra Jadeja."Congrats to the yellow brigade of CSK on their 5th IPL Trophy under the man with a plan for every situation, MS Dhoni! This is cricket at its very best and Jadeja who held his nerve in the face of adversity has sealed a historic victory for CSK," said Stalin in a tweet.A 67-run stand between Shubman Gill (39 in 20 balls) and Wriddhiman Saha provided GT with a solid start. Then came a 64-run stand between Saha and Sai Sudarshan. Saha was dismissed for 54 off 39 balls, which had five fours and a six.Sudarshan smashed 96 in just 47 balls, with eight fours and six sixes. He stitched an 81-run stand for the third wicket with skipper Hardik Pandya, who scored 21 off 12 balls.Matheesha Pathirana took 2/44 in four overs. Deepak Chahar and Ravindra Jadeja took a wicket each.The match was delayed due to rain. After the resumption, CSK was set a revised target of 171 runs in 15 overs. Openers Devon Conway (47 in 25 balls) and Ruturaj Gaikwad (26 in 16 balls), provided a platform with a 74-run stand for the first wicket. Despite Ajinkya Rahane's quickfire 27 in 13 balls and Ambati Rayadu's 19 in eight balls, Mohit Sharma scripted a comeback for GT with his tight bowling. He also got Dhoni out for a golden duck.CSK needed 13 runs in the final over. But Mohit could not defend it as Jadeja denied GT a win with a match-winning four on the final ball.Mohit was the pick of the bowlers for GT, taking 3/36 in his four overs. Noor Ahmed (2/17) was also impressive with the ball.Brief Scores GT 214/4 (Sai Sudharsan 96, Wriddhiman Saha 54, Matheesha Pathirana 2/44) lost to CSK 171/5 in 15 overs (Devon Conway 47, Shivam Dube 32, Mohit Sharma 3/36).ANI30 May 2023 Shared Recently! Sagacity Prime Announces Second Inning Emerging Leaders Award 2023 PNN, Pune, May 30: Sagacity Prime proudly presents the first of its kind award called the 'Second Inning Emerging Leaders Award 2023' honouring extraordinary individuals who have demonstrated brilliance and innovation in their respective sectors. Sagacity Prime Announces Second Inning Emerging Leaders Award 2023 The unique award recognizes those who have demonstrated exemplary behaviour and gone against the odds to scale newer heights in their professional journeys. Be it switching to a new industry, choosing to work in a different stream as compared to their education or simply leaving the comfort of a job to a more challenging entrepreneur journey, these leaders have conquered every challenge that has come their way.The core thought of 'Second Inning Emerging Leaders Award 2023' stems from fact that a large number of working professionals who dare to challenge the status quo and go against a set pattern, are left out of the mainstream leadership excellence awards because of the dearth of any specially curated category honouring their professional milestones. With the expertise to recognize niche categories that remain untouched, Sagacity Prime is providing a platform to individuals that have gone through any of the following paradigm shifts in their career1. Shift from one industry to another (Ex - Journalism to Corporate Communications)2. Shift in career domains (Ex - Engineer to HR)3. Different profession vs educational background (Ex - Law graduate to media)4. Shift from corporates to own venture or vice-versa5. Restart professional innings post sabbatical (Ex - maternity, higher study, personal exigencies)6. Corporate leaders to Individual consultants7. Shift from one country to anotherThe award nominations are being invited under the 9 categories of Communications, Human Resources, Content, Learning and Development, Media and Advertising, Sales, Finance and Accounts, Marketing and Technology. Besides self-nominations, the core team of industry veterans is also handpicking the profiles that are most suitable to participate in the coveted awards. The seamless nomination process includes filling out a short nomination form on the official website www.sagacityprime.com, followed by an award entry fee submission and responding to the entry questionnaire. The responses are then evaluated by a group of renowned jury members comprising of industry stalwarts with proven track record of success in their respective areas of expertise.What makes 'Second Inning Emerging Leaders Award 2023' an exceptionally credible award is the 6-stage rigorous and transparent process of evaluation including the jury round enabling swifter professional growth for the awardees. Sagacity Prime strongly abides by its core tenets of Credibility, Professionalism and Unbiased Approach while curating platforms that celebrate excellence in its purest form. Second Inning awards is another step in creating differentiation when it comes to credible and honest individual recognitions. With a list of robust partnerships across varied industries ranging from Media Houses, Mental Wellness, L and D, Telecom etc, the recognition comes bundled with many other high value services having the potential to improve individual growth.The opportunity of winning the award gives a platform to showcase the exemplary work to the industry stalwarts and add more weight to ones' profile. The title in turn becomes a credible testimony that truly helps in taking giant leaps in the professional journeys ahead. Furthermore, participants get the chance to meet directly with CXO-level executives and benefit from their guidance and expertise. The award serves as credible evidence that aids in making huge leaps in one's second innings as a working professional.Many industry professionals have already filled in their nomination forms while the nomination window is open till 30th June 2023 for the ones who are yet to file their entries. The nomination form can be accessed from following link . The judging criteria basis which the judges would handpick individuals for the coveted awards would include Leadership Skills, Accomplishments Statement, Future Potential and the way they describe the Turning Point of their professional journeys.Sagacity Prime is India's leading platform that has been curated to honour the brands and individuals who have done extraordinary work in their respective industry or domain. The core team consists of industry stalwarts having a proven track record and highest recognitions for the path breaking work they have done so far. True to its name 'Sagacity Prime' believes in celebrating exceptional wisdom by bringing together some of the best minds across industries and creating forums for knowledge sharing and quality enhancement.It regularly organizes high-level conferences, awards and B2B events in both online and hybrid setup. Sagacity Prime's recognitions and categories are based on intensive research, data analysis and brainstorming sessions with industry stalwarts. By identifying niche categories and bringing them to the mainstream, Sagacity Prime ensures that deserving individuals receive the recognition they deserve. It strongly abides by our core tenets of Credibility, Professionalism and Unbiased Approach while curating platforms that celebrate excellence in its purest form.(Disclaimer The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)ANI30 May 2023 Shared Recently! Magic of sourdough: Master baker T.K. Khaleels quest for that perfect recipe NewsVoir, New Delhi, May 30: T. Magic of sourdough: Master baker T.K. Khaleel's quest for that perfect recipe K. Khaleel, the esteemed Indian master baker (Founder and Managing Director of Artisan Bakers and former Managing Director of Bakemart) has dedicated over four decades to honing his skills in the world of baking. His passion for bread has led him to the magical world of sourdough and to reach the rarefied heights of excellence in creating sourdough recipe which, till he breached it, had been an uncharted territory for Asian bakers. The rest, as they say, is history.Khaleel's exceptional recipe is now preserved at the world-renowned Puratos Sourdough Library in Brussels, the only library of its kind in the world.For the record, Khaleel created his versatile sourdough recipe, which has earned him the highest recognition in the field of baking, some sixteen years ago.Today Khaleel is one among more than hundred bakers worldwide who have submitted their unique sourdough cultures to the Puratos Sourdough Library, recognizing the importance of safeguarding their legacy and livelihood.Khaleel's sourdough starter, which is Exhibit No. 128, is the culmination of his devotion to his art and his love for creating outstanding bread. He is the only Asian baker to hold this title, which is traditionally held by European bakers. This is a testament to his hard work, creativity, and the rising recognition of Asian bakers in the industry.The Puratos Sourdough Library takes great care to store and preserve these valuable sourdough cultures. With over 1400 wild yeast and lactic bacterial strains recorded, every new addition is examined and tested for microorganisms. The authentic sourdoughs are maintained in perfect condition in refrigerators set at 4AC/39AF and refilled every two months with the original flour, simulating the settings of the original bakery.Khaleel's passion for sourdough has not only resulted in an exceptional recipe but has also served as a source of inspiration to others in the field. He is constantly updating his techniques and staying abreast of new methods and innovations, which has resulted in bread that is on par with the best in the world. Khaleel's inventiveness, variety, and unparalleled product quality have made him an inspiration to the Middle Eastern baking business.Khaleel's journey is a testament to the power of passion and hard work in the field of baking. His dedication to sourdough has earned him a place among the world's best bakers, and his contribution to the Puratos Sourdough Library is a source of inspiration to bakers worldwide. While the art of baking may be centuries old, innovators like Khaleel continue to drive its evolution and success.(Disclaimer The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)ANI30 May 2023 Shared Recently! World Government Summit discusses New Wave of Innovation in Education Dubai, May 30: The World Government Summit Organisation held the The New Wave of Innovation in Education session as part of its Summit masterclass series, bringing together leading experts, educators, policymakers, and industry innovators to explore the transformative potential of cutting-edge technologies and emerging trends in education. World Government Summit discusses 'New Wave of Innovation in Education' The session was designed to empower participants with the knowledge, tools and strategies needed to harness the power of innovation and drive positive change in educational practices.The Summit masterclass session was hosted by Michael M. Crow, President of Arizona State University, one of the most prominent educational and academic pioneers dedicated to enhancing global access to education, academic and research excellence, and positive social impact. Ranked against other public universities in the United States by US News and World Report, ASU has been listed as the number one most innovative university in the country for eight years in a row.Mohamed Yousef AlSharhan, Managing Director of the World Government Summit Organisation, confirmed that the future of education is a core pillar of the World Government Summit, which focuses on sectors most relevant to societies and our wellbeing. Education is paramount to accelerating change and acting as a catalyst for the future.This education-focused masterclass addressed several topics related to the future of the education sector and focused on the need to build and innovate new models for higher education, as well as the need to design new and improved processes for lasting institutional transformation. The session also explored future trends in higher education.Crow stated, "Arizona State University is a 21st-century service university that embraces innovation and technology to enhance academic excellence, access to quality education, and meaningful social impact. As the No. 1 school for innovation in the United States, we recognise the importance of cross-sector collaboration in designing the future, and I appreciate the opportunity to discuss our emergence as a new model in the evolution of global higher education."During the session, Crow shared lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on the higher education sector. He positively reviewed the state of emerging technologies that will affect the future of education at large and will introduce about a quantum leap in its tools and methodologies.The session addressed the latest innovative tools and solutions needed to enhance readiness for the future. Key points of the session included adjusting the culture of higher education, discussing a number of challenges and great opportunities that technology brings to this vital sector and touching on the most significant obstacles and challenges to success in developing new and future models of higher education.The Summit Masterclass sessions organised by the World Government Summit represent an inclusive platform for members and partners of the World Government Summit Organisation.It provided members and partners with an exclusive opportunity to gain invaluable insights into the key sectors, helping them play an active role in shaping a promising future for governments and the private sector and develop the necessary skills in their fields of specialisation through innovative sessions and workshops hosted by the world's leading experts and academic voices. (ANI/WAM)ANI30 May 2023 Shared Recently! Lucknow hospital begins using antimicrobial bedsheets Lucknow, May 30: The Lok Bandhu Hospital has become the first government hospital in Lucknow to introduce antimicrobial bedsheets as a precautionary measure to curb the spread of infections in its special newborn care units (SNCU). Lucknow hospital begins using antimicrobial bedsheets As a trial, 20 bedsheets are currently in use and each sheet lasts for up to 30 washes. If the trial gets successful, the move will be implemented in all wards.Medical superintendent of Lok Bandhu Hospital, Dr Ajay Tripathi said, "The decision has been taken to control the growth and spread of bacteria and fungus, which can cause cross-infections in and around the patient."He said that the sheets are changed daily and culture testing has been done to ensure their authenticity.He said sheets are manufactured using nano particle technology in textiles and are claimed to inhibit microorganisms' growth up to 95 per cent in contrast to the standard linen as found in the research study conducted by a private university in Noida.They are manufactured by a private company and are certified by a National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) lab.Dr Tripathi said, "We will observe the sheets for the next two to three months before making them mandatory in other beds."The manufacturer of the bedsheets, Vishal Mehra said, "The use of these bedsheets will improve the quality of public healthcare facilities as they inhibit the growth of infection causing microorganisms as per the mandate of National Quality Assurance Standard (NQAS) concerning infection control practices around patient care areas."IANS30 May 2023 Shared Recently! China issued over 60,000 visas to Indians since January 2023 New Delhi, May 30: The Chinese Embassy and Consulates General have issued more than 60,000 visas to Indians travelling to China in the first five months of 2023, Chinese Embassy in India spokesperson Wang Xiaojian said in a tweet. The visas to Indian nationals has been granted for various purposes, including tourism, business study, work and family reunions. China issued over 60,000 visas to Indians since January 2023 Wang Xiaojian tweeted, "In the first 5 months of this year, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates General have issued over 60000 visas to Indian people travelling to China for purposes of business, study, tourist, work, family reunion etc. Welcome to China."Earlier in March, China announced that it will allow foreign tourists into the country, including from India for the first time in three years. In a notification issued on March 14, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in India said that it will resume issuing various types of Chinese visas.In a notification, the Chinese Embassy in India stated, "Chinese visas that were issued before March 28, 2020 and remains within valid period will be reactivated."It further said, "The Chinese Embassy and Consulates General in India will resume issuing various types of Chinese visas. For more details, please check the updated Notice on the Requirements for Chinese Visa Application."Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on April 6 said that India hopes that the Chinese authorities would facilitate Indian journalists' continued presence and reporting from China after reports came up where visas of two Indian journalists in China were frozen.Speaking to mediapersons, Bagchi said, "We have Chinese journalists who have valid Indian visas for pursuing journalistic activities (in India). I don't see any limitations or difficulties in reporting and doing media coverage. As regards Indian journalists working in China, we would hope Chinese authorities would facilitate their continued presence and reporting from China."He also assured that the MEA is in touch with Chinese authorities in this regard. At a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning was asked if China has suspended the visas for two Indian journalists belonging to two media houses. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson claimed that Chinese journalists have "suffered unfair and discriminatory" treatment in India for a long time. She alleged that in 2017, the Indian side shortened the period of validity of visas held by Chinese journalists in India to three months or even one month without any valid reason.Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson also added that, the Indian side asked a journalist of the Xinhua News Agency to leave the country by March 31, citing the reason that he had been in the country for six years. She claimed that the Chinese side treats Indian journalists in China with "goodwill" and has actively provided assistance and facilitation for their life and work in China.ANI30 May 2023 Shared Recently! French Open: Top seed Alcaraz makes winning start, beats Cobolli in the opener Paris, May 29: Playing as the top seed in a Grand Slam for the first time, World No.1 Carlos Alcaraz of Spain wasted little time getting his title quest underway at the French Open on Monday when he raced past Italian Flavio Cobolli 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 to reach the second round. French Open: Top seed Alcaraz makes winning start, beats Cobolli in the opener Italian qualifier Cobolli put up a fight in the third set and saved three match points on his own serve to hold for 4-5 against Alcaraz, then broke the Spaniard to level for 5-5.Alcaraz then nudged ahead with a break of serve for 6-5 and this time did not falter when serving for the victory, as he started his campaign on a winning note and booked a second-round meeting with Taro Daniel.The 20-year-old Alcaraz is the youngest player to be given the top seeding in Paris since a then-19-year-old Bjorn Borg in 1976. The Spaniard showed little sign of nerves in his opening match, though, timing his clean groundstrokes perfectly to overpower the 21-year-old qualifier Cobolli in the baseline exchanges."It is great to play here. It is my first time on Suzanne-Lenglen and I enjoyed playing here," Alcaraz was quoted as saying on the ATP Tour website. "There was such great energy from the crowd and I came out with a great level."Alcaraz showed off his variety on Court Suzanne-Lenglen by repeatedly pulling Cobolli around with the drop shot, while he survived an attacking bombardment from the 21-year-old in the third set.The World No. 1 recovered from failing to serve out the match at 5-4, soaking up pressure to immediately break Cobolli's serve before advancing on his fifth match point.He joins his top two rivals for the No.1 spot, Novak Djokovic of Serbia and Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second round.IANS30 May 2023 Shared Recently! Losing gadgets in fire, Assam content creator gets help from Bhuvan Ram Mumbai, May 30: Actor and one of India's biggest YouTuber Bhuvan Bam, who is known for sketches and OTT series 'Taaza Khabar', recently helped content creator Roshan of Roshan Talks from Assam after the latter lost most of his valuables, including his gadgets for making his videos, in a fire accident at home. Losing gadgets in fire, Assam content creator gets help from Bhuvan Ram Bhuvan sent him the gadgets which are required to make videos. Roshan took to his channel to thank Bhuvan. He unboxed each gadget for the audience that Bhuvan had sent and thanked him for the kind gesture.Rohit Raj, co-founder of BB Ki Vines Production and manager of Bhuvan Bam, said, "Bhuvan is a very people's person. He is someone who loves his followers and sometimes he stays personally in touch with them too. He had never chatted with Roshan before, but when he got to know about Roshan, he personally reached out to him on social media."He further mentioned, "He sent him a Gopro 10, a laptop, a microphone and a camera. Being a content creator, he knows the importance of gadgets in shooting and editing videos."IANS30 May 2023 Shared Recently! Unseasonal rains come as blessing in disguise for Himachal forests Shimla, May 30: Unseasonal excess summer rains affected lakhs of hectares of to be harvested crops in Himachal Pradesh, but came as blessing in disguise for forests that largely turns into tinderboxes with the rise in mercury every year in May. Unseasonal rains come as blessing in disguise for Himachal forests As per government estimates, the state's forest wealth accounts for 68.16 per cent of the total geographic area that is rich in biodiversity and plays a vital role in preserving the fragile Himalayan ecology.As per government data, 1,200 to 2,500 forest fires are reported in the state every year. Mid and low hills in Shimla, Solan, Bilaspur, Una, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi and Sirmaur are the worst-affected.With the onset of May, a majority of the fires are reported from pine forests when the trees shed pine needles that are highly inflammable due to the rich content of turpentine oil.The pine forests are found up to an altitude of 5,500 feet.The main reason for the forest fires is the long dry spell and the abnormal increase in temperatures.Official figures show 2018 was the worst year with 2,469 fire incidents reported -- the highest in eight years -- that gobbled up 25,300 hectares of forest across the state.Taking into consideration the problem of forest fires, the government adopts a fire management strategy before the onset of the peak summer season."This year the summer is not quite harsh but still the government focused on forest fire management strategies like setting up strategic fire centres and coordination among various departments," a government spokesperson told IANS on Tuesday.The Forest Department has prepared a fire mapping system to control the fire and has prepared a list of sensitive forests wherein close coordination with panchayats and local communities has been established, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu said, as per an official statement.Besides, officers of the Forest Department have held several meetings through virtual mode with field staff and elected representatives of the panchayats.Billowing smoke from the hills of Shimla, Kasauli, Chail, Dharampur and Nahan towns are uncommon these days.Likewise, there is no report of any major forest fire in the neighbouring hill state of Uttarakhand.Forest officials say most forest fire incidents are deliberate acts. The villagers also tend to set grasslands afire to get softer grass after the rains. In most cases, the fire from grasslands spreads to nearby forests that cause damage to wildlife, including breeding pairs of birds like the red jungle fowl.According to the meteorological office here, the average rainfall in the state in May is 61.2 mm. "Till date we had 109.8 mm in May, which is 79 per cent higher than the average rainfall," an official told IANS.For conservation, scientific management and sustainable use of pine forest residue that can be used as biofuel, an alternative to alleviate dependence on fossil fuel, the government is planning to produce compressed biogas (CBG) from pine needles.Last month it signed a memorandum of understanding with Oil India Ltd (OIL) and is planning to start a pilot project for the bioconversion of pine needles into biofuel.The utilisation of pine needles for biofuel production through pyrolysis and other techniques will be a sustainable way to deal with the forest fires as well as the energy crisis.The pine needle fall starts in April and continues till the beginning of July.On an average, a pine forest yields two to three tonnes of needles per hectare during a season and the state has pine forests spread over 1,500 square km.(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at gulatiians@gmail.com)IANS30 May 2023 Shared Recently! No corruption charge against Modi govt in last 9 yrs: Minister Bhubaneswar, May 29: Criticising the Congress over corruption during the tenure of the UPA government, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy on Monday said not a single corruption charge has been levelled against the Narendra Modi-led government in the last nine years. 'No corruption charge against Modi govt in last 9 yrs': Minister Addressing mediapersons here on the completion of nine years of the Modi-led government, Reddy accused the Congress-led UPA government of indulging in scams worth Rs 12 lakh crore during its 10-year-rule.He said the UPA government was deep in corruption in the auction of 2G spectrum, coal block allocation, and procurement of choppers, etc."The people were fed up with the Congress government and voted BJP into power. Since 2014, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP has given a stable government with inclusive development," Reddy said.Highlighting the various welfare measures taken by the Central government during the last nine years, he said, during the Covid-19 pandemic, the entire nation was behind the Prime Minister, who personally ensured production of indigenous vaccines.Over 200 crore vaccine doses were administered to people and given protection from the Covid-19 pandemic, the BJP leader said.In the last nine years, Reddy said, over 3.5 crore houses and 11.72 toilets have been constructed in the households of poor families while LPG connections provided to 9.6 crore poor families under Ujjwala Yojana.To provide handholding support to farmers, the Central government is providing Rs 6,000 in three tranches to the farmers every year under PM Kisan Yojana, while seven IIMs, seven IITs and 15 AIIMS were established by the Modi government in different parts of the country, he added.Moreover, the Tourism Minister said that the situation in Kashmir has also improved a lot."Those who were pelting stones on security personnel now invite G20 delegations with roses," he said.IANS30 May 2023 Shared Recently! Look forward to engagements with Indian community in Brunei Darussalam: MoS Muraleedharan Bandar Seri Begawan [Brunei], May 30: Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs V Muraleedharan on Tuesday said he looks forward to engagements with the Indian community in Brunei Darussalam. Look forward to engagements with Indian community in Brunei Darussalam: MoS Muraleedharan "Delighted to be in Brunei Darussalam on my first visit to this beautiful country. Look forward to my engagements including with businesses and wider Indian community," MoS Muraleedharan tweeted on Tuesday.Muraleedharan is on an official visit to Brunei and Malaysia from May 30-June 2.The MOS will interact with the Indian Diaspora members in Brunei during his stay there. It is estimated that over 14,000 Indians have made Brunei their home. The Indian Associations in Brunei will host cultural performances in MOS as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) celebrations, the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official release.For the first time Muraleedharan has travelled to Brunei and he will be in Brunei from May 30-31. From Brunei, he will embark on an official visit to Malaysia from June 1-2.It is the first Ministerial visit from India to the country since October 2019.According to the official release of MEA, on his visit to Malaysia, the MoS will have a private meeting with Malaysia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Datuk Mohamad bin Alamin. The Malaysian Minister of Human Resources, V. Sivakumar, will also meet with the MOS.MOS will take part in the inauguration of the first-ever Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) Day -Malaysia (Aprawasi Diwas) and will launch the PIO International Festival to be held from 2-4 June 2023.He will address the Indian community and diaspora at the 'Pravasiya Bharatiya Utsav'. With 2.75 million PIOs, Malaysia is home to the second-largest PIO population in the world.ANI30 May 2023 Shared Recently! Roadshow held in Mumbai to bring in investments to northeastern states Mumbai, May 30: An investors roadshow was held by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER) and it received interest with over 200 business-to-government (B2G) meetings being organised in a single day. Roadshow held in Mumbai to bring in investments to northeastern states Besides a significant number of investors, the event also saw key policymakers and government officials from the northeastern region grace the occasion."With the investor interest in the region, the North Eastern region has achieved several industrial landmarks. The central and state governments and facilitators such as DoNER have together discussed several investible opportunities with businesses. Our interactions with businesses have revealed several welcoming and proactive experiences around North East," said Lok Ranjan, Secretary, Ministry of DONER, First Mumbai Investor Roadshow.He said the progress of the trilateral highway between Bangladesh and India will further enhance the prospects of integration of the region.Senior government officials from northeastern states, the Ministry of DoNER, and officials from FICCI (Industry Partner), EY (Knowledge Partner), and Invest India (Investment Facilitation Partner) guided investors through new age avenues. Senior officials from North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), North Eastern Council (NEC), North Eastern Development Finance Corporation (NEDFI), and North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC) also provided crucial insights during the Investor Roadshow, according to a release.Some of the top business houses that participated include names such as Dabur, Patanjali, Amul, Parle Agro, Pepsi Co, ITC, Britannia, Hindustan Unilever, Sun Pharmaceuticals, JSW Energy, Indian Oil, Adani Ventures, and Mahindra Holidays.Officials informed participants how start-ups in the region could leverage several opportunities.The northeastern part of India is a strategic gateway to South East Asian economies. Each of the eight states in the region offers a significant business advantage to investors.Sikkim, known for being the country's first fully organic state, has also observed a spurt in pharmaceutical businesses. Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura too have seen an uptick in investor interest particularly in the tourism sector.In states like Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Nagaland, investment avenues such as power generation, biotechnology, natural resources, and eco-tourism have gained significance in recent years. All these states recently hosted G20 meetings as well.The North East Global Investors Summit is a flagship campaign instituted by the Ministry of DoNER. As part of the Northeast Global Investor Summit, successful Investor Roundtables have been organised across Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Meghalaya and is scheduled to be organised in other North Eastern states.The Ministry is expected to organise Investor Roadshows in Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Dhaka (Bangladesh) in the run-up to the lead investment summit in New Delhi later this year.ANI30 May 2023 Shared Recently! Govt invites applications from firms under production-linked incentive scheme 2.0 for IT hardware New Delhi, May 30: The government's Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme 2.0 for IT Hardware for Enhancing India's Manufacturing Capabilities and Enhancing Exports was notified on Monday after the Union Cabinet gave its approval to introduce the scheme recently. Govt invites applications from firms under production-linked incentive scheme 2.0 for IT hardware The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on May 17 gave the approval to introduce the scheme and it was notified on Monday. The PLI Scheme 2.0 for IT Hardware was approved with a budgetary outlay of Rs 17,000 crore.According to a statement from the Ministry of Electronics and IT, the window of applications under PLI Scheme 2.0 for IT Hardware will open from June 1, 2023.The PLI Scheme 2.0 for IT Hardware is expected to result in broadening and deepening of the manufacturing ecosystem by encouraging the localisation of components and sub-assemblies and allowing for a longer duration to develop the supply chain within the country.Additionally, the scheme provides increased flexibility and options for applicants, and is tied to incremental sales and investment thresholds to further incentivise growth, the ministry said. Furthermore, semiconductor design, IC manufacturing, and packaging are also included as incentivised components of the PLI Scheme 2.0 for IT Hardware.The scheme is expected to lead to total production of about Rs 3.35 lakh crore, bring an additional investment of Rs 2,430 crore in electronics manufacturing and will lead to generation of 75,000 additional direct jobs, according to the statement.The scheme will promote large-scale manufacturing in laptops, tablets, all-in-one personal computers (PCs), servers and Ultra Small Form Factor (USFF) devices and contribute significantly to achieve electronics manufacturing turnover of approximately USD 300 billion by 2025-26.Approved applicants of existing PLI will be allowed to apply under PLI 2.0. The scheme has three category of applicants, namely global companies, hybrid (global/domestic) companies and domestic companies.ANI30 May 2023 Shared Recently! Randeep, get your facts right: Actors claim runs up against factual history Mumbai, May 30: Randeep Hooda's directorial debut, 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar', has stirred a controversy, thanks to his claim that the freedom fighter and Hindutva's ideologue was the inspiration behind Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh and Khudiram Bose, the youngest martyr of the freedom struggle. Randeep, get your facts right: Actor's claim runs up against factual history The first salvo was fired by Netaji's grandnephew and on-again, off-again BJP politician, Chandra Kumar Bose, who warned Hooda in a tweet, "If you respect #Savarkar, please don't distort history", and then said in an interview with a news channels that his famous grand-uncle was inspired by two people Swami Vivekananda and Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das.Interestingly, Chandra Kumar Bose ran an excerpt from a speech delivered by Netaji at Jhargram in West Bengal on May 12, 1940, which had a message that is more relevant than ever today.Netaji had said "By taking advantage of religion and desecrating it, the Hindu Mahasabha has entered the arena of politics. It is the duty of all Hindus to condemn it. ... Banish these traitors from national life. Don't listen to them."Veer (Vinayak Damodar) Savarkar, incidentally, was a Hindu Mahasabha leader.Bhagat Singh, meanwhile, was a committed Marxist who had also read up Mikhail Bakunin, the founder of Anarchism.On the day of his execution at the age of 23, he was reading German Marxist Clara Zetkin's 'Reminiscences of Lenin'. His revolutionary organisation was named the Hindustan Socialist Republican Army. The the only manifesto that he left behind for his followers after his life was snapped by the hangman's noose, was titled 'Why I Am an Atheist'.And on the day he was being tried for bombing the Central Legislative Assembly, Bhagat Singh asked the magistrate to deliver a telegram drafted by him to the Third International. Addressed to Lenin, the Bolshevik leader of the Soviet Union, the telegram read"On Lenin Day we send hearty greetings to all who are doing something for carrying forward the ideas of the great Lenin. We wish success to the great experiment Russia is carrying out. We join our voice to that of the international working class movement. The proletariat will win. Capitalism will be defeated. Death to Imperialism."Coming to Khudiram Bose, he was barely 18 when he was hanged, along with his older associate Prafulla Chaki, for the assassination of the wife and daughter of the British magistrate, Douglas Kingsford, who was the real target of the bomb that led to their martyrdom.Bose had nothing to do with Savarkar -- he was barely in his teens when Sri Aurobindo and Sister Nivedita, Swami Vivekananda's English associate, visited Medinipur, where he came from, and their speeches are said to have left an indelible imprint on the impressionable mind of the boy.Later, he joined the revolutionary group, Anushilan Samiti, and was greatly influenced by its leader and the editor of the 'Jugantar' Bengali weekly, Barindra Kumar Ghosh, who was also Sri Aurobindo's younger brother.Savarkar, contrary to what Ranveer Hooda is propagating, had no role in the lives of these three freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country.IANS31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Nikhil Chandwani now worlds most-read longform writer on Instagram Mumbai, May 30: Nikhil Chandwani has been celebrated as the most-read longform writer on Instagram globally, a truly stunning achievement. This title was officially given to him after he was named the Times Writer of the Year 2022. Nikhil Chandwani now world's most-read longform writer on Instagram Chandwani has won the hearts of his audience on Instagram, where he has more than 1 million followers, and his organic reach is an astonishing 100-130 million per month. He posts educational articles and reels on Sanatan Dharma, geopolitics, and so on.He has been single-handedly instrumental in creating awareness about the pain of Sindhi Hindus in Pakistan and has helped multiple Hindu families migrate to India. Nikhil's articles and videos on Sindhi Hindus have created ripples across border with Pakistani politicians publicly calling out Nikhil after he recently exposed their country.But his accomplishments go far beyond Instagram. He is a recognised author, poet and TED speaker, with 14 books to his name. He has also earned international recognition for his creative work.His entrepreneurial spirit led him to create NYK Daily, a global news platform with more than 2 million monthly readers, valued at $4.4 million.Additionally, as Chairman of the Writers' Rescue Center, Chandwani has mentored many aspiring writers, aiding more than 500 individuals in refining their writing skills.Before becoming a literary phenomenon, Chandwani made a significant mark in the field of education. He founded The Walnut School of Ideas, an edutech firm with branches in Nagpur and Vijayawada, which he sold for an impressive $2.2 million.He also produced a feature film, 'Nadi ki Beti - Sundari' (She - The Movie), now streaming on MX Player.Chandwani has not been confined by traditional boundaries, as evidenced by his partnerships with various respected organisations such as embassies, the Save Soil Campaign, Spotify, Indian Railways, the Ministry of Sports, the US 2022 Elections, Pepsi, and more than 400 other brands.His articles are engaged with by high-profile figures across many fields and genres. They include US presidential candidates, leading entrepreneurs, politicians and Senators from more than 20 nations, as well as actors, actresses and CEOs of unicorn startups.On Instagram, Chandwani's verified account, @nikhilchandwani, has amassed a devoted following of 1 million users. His posts typically garner 20,000 to 50,000 likes and are viewed by a large audience of 800,000 to 1.5 million users.His reels/videos frequently receive between 400,000 to 2 million real views, with a reach of 2-5 million users, firmly establishing him as one of the platform's most viral accounts. His monthly reach on Instagram, remarkably, fluctuates from 80 million to 100 million users, each one of them achieved organically.In addition to his literary achievements, Chandwani provides advisory services to several startups, sharing his expertise in crafting effective social media campaigns and brand leadership. His influence stretches across funded and non-funded startups worldwide, as well as government organisations seeking to bolster their digital presence.Nikhil Chandwani's immense contributions to the worlds of writing, education and social media have garnered him global recognition, cementing his status as a significant figure in the digital age. As his following continues to expand and his impact deepens, the world looks forward to the future endeavours of this remarkable talent.IANS31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Zeishan Quadri on Bloody Daddy: Sometimes some roles satisfy you as an actor Mumbai, May 30: Writer-actor Zeishan Quadri is all geared up for the release of his next 'Bloody Daddy' starring Shahid Kapoor, where he will be seen playing a negative character. Zeishan Quadri on 'Bloody Daddy': Sometimes some roles satisfy you as an actor Talking about the film and his role, Zeishan said "I play Shahid Kapoor's friend in this film. It is a negative role that I am playing. My look in the film is also something that I enjoyed carrying off.. When Ali (Abbas Zafar) offered me this part I jumped at this opportunity, as this was an opportunity to work with Shahid and working with such an experienced team is always a great experience."He added "It is a really nice part and I thoroughly enjoyed playing this role. Sometimes some roles satisfy you as an actor, this is one of those roles in my career."Zeishan is a writer, director, actor and producer who shot to fame with his role in the cult hit film Gangs of Wasseypur 2.Since then he has made films like Meerathiya Gangsters, Halahal and more. Zeishan has also written 'Gangs Of Wasseypur'.What's next?"I am shooting for a series right now being produced by my friend Baljeet. I am in the process of writing 2 scripts that I want to direct soon. Too early to say anything about those, but I will surely direct one film this year," he said.IANS31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Nirmala Sitharaman chairs meeting to review various industrial corridor projects New Delhi, May 30: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday chaired the second meeting of the apex monitoring authority of the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT). Nirmala Sitharaman chairs meeting to review various industrial corridor projects The meeting, which saw participation from 16 states, was also attended by Union minister Piyush Goyal and Sarbananda Sonowalm besides senior officials from various ministries.They reviewed the progress of projects under the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust. It aims to create greenfield smart industrial cities with sustainable and tech-enabled services.NICDIT is within the overall framework of the PMGatiShakti National Master Plan. National Master Plan is an approach that enables integrated and synchronised implementation of projects.It was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 13, 2021, with a vision to break departmental silos in government and institutionalize holistic planning for stakeholders across major infrastructure projects and increase efficiencyDuring the meeting, Sitharaman emphasised the importance of FIRE -- freight corridors, industrial corridors, railways and expressways -- to ignite industrialisation and economic development further to make India a developed nation by 2047 - the country's 100th year of Independence.Finance Minister urged that there should be no politicisation of economic development and that all states should work collectively as 'Team India'.She also sought the support of the states to resolve the issues in operationalising the industrial corridors such as expediting land acquisition, among others.ANI31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Prateik Babbar says Shabana Azmi has been very encouraging throughout his career Mumbai, May 30: Actor Prateik Babbar, who will be soon working with the veteran actress Shabana Azmi in their upcoming film, has shared that the actress, who worked with his mother in 'Arth', has always been very encouraging throughout his entire career. Prateik Babbar says Shabana Azmi has been very encouraging throughout his career The duo will be seen in Michelin Star chef, and filmmaker Vikas Khanna's 'Imaginary Rain'. Recently, during an interview, Shabana got emotional as she opened up on always looking forward to working with him.She said, "Yes, we had a reading on Thursday. Prateik is a spitting image of his mother. The resemblance is eerie. I was swept back in time. I am looking forward to starting shooting with Prateik."Now speaking on the same, Prateik extended his heartfelt gratitude towards working with her. He shared, "It was inevitable. Shabana ma'am has always been very encouraging throughout my career. Bumping into each other I've often expressed my wish to work with her."He further mentioned, "I was always very hopeful.. here we are.. it's an honour and a privilege to be working with such a cinema legend.. life comes full circle in unexpected and beautiful ways."IANS31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Johnny Depp cancels shows as doctor warns him not to fly after injury Los Angeles, May 30: Hollywood star Johnny Depp, whose film 'Jeanne du Barry' received a seven-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, has been forced to postpone a slate of his upcoming tour dates due to an injured ankle. Johnny Depp cancels shows as doctor warns him not to fly after injury On May 30, May 31 and June 1, the 59-year-old was set to head to Manchester, New Hampshire, Boston and Bethel, New York with his band The Hollywood Vampires, comprised of Depp, Alice Cooper and Aerosmith's Joe Perry, reports 'Mirror.co.uk'.However, fans at those locations will have to wait a bit longer to see them as Hollywood actor Johnny has been ordered to take it easy following an injury to his lower body.Depp recently told his Instagram followers "My dear friends, I am sorry to say that I have fractured my ankle, which is a drag!!! It began as a hairline break but somewhere between Cannes and the Royal Albert Hall, it got worse rather than better. Several medical professionals have strongly suggested I avoid any and all activity for the moment and so am sadly unable to travel at this time".He further mentioned, quoted by 'Mirror.co.uk', "To that end, the guys and I are very sorry to miss you in New Hampshire, Boston and New York but fear not, I promise we will bring an amazing show to all of you in Europe and bring our absolute best to the East Coast later this summer and make it up to those who have paid for those shows!!! Again, sincerest apologies. All my love and respect, JD x".In a statement shared on the band's official Instagram page, it was written "We are sad to share that the Hollywood Vampires will be rescheduling our three US tour dates this coming week. Johnny has sustained a painful injury to his ankle following his recent appearances and has been advised by his doctor not to travel. He is devastated by this turn of events, but looks forward to resting up so all four Vampires can bring their absolute best to the tour in Europe."The affected dates were also listed, with the promise "All tickets will be honoured for the new dates".IANS31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Viral video: Wife came second in beauty pageant, what husband did to winner will shock you Brasilia, May 30: Is winning the only thing that matters? This question will definitely strike your mind after seeing a viral video of a man who disrupted an LGBTQIAP+ beauty pageant in Brazil recently. Viral video: Wife came second in beauty pageant, what husband did to winner will shock you In a shocking incident, the Brazilian drag pageant had a bizarre ending on Saturday when the enraged man charged the stage and slammed the crown as it was about to be placed over the winner Emannuelly Belini's head while his runner-up partner Nathally Becker watched in horror.The man yelled and pulled his wife away from the winner as a shocked audience gasped. Miss Cuiaba's rhinestone-snatching spouse, who remains publicly unidentified, then picked up the crown and heaved it to the ground again, breaking the prize to pieces.The man then attempted to pull Becker offstage, but pageant security intervened, ushering him backstage.The pageant coordinator Malone Haenisch, who organized the Miss Gay Mato Grosso, released a statement about the fierce outburst, insisting that the pageant's judges were fair in declaring Belini as queen and shaming the violent behaviour of Becker's husband, the New York Post reported."He did not consider the result to be fair and caused all this inconvenience and damage," Haenisch said."We vehemently condemn the incident that occurred at the time of the crowning of the elected Miss," the event planner continued, "when the partner of Miss Cuiaba, who was classified in second place, invaded the stage and aggressively destroyed the crown."Haenisch added, "We confirm the pageant jury's choice and we sympathize with the elected Miss, as well as [Becker], as she is not responsible for the crazy attitudes of third parties."The statement went on to note that the pageant's "legal team has been informed" of the criminal incident and that "necessary legal measures" will be taken as a result of the disruptive stunt.What do you think of this bizarre act?ANI31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Violent clashes erupt in Sudans capital shortly before cease-fire deal expires Khartoum, May 30: Violent clashes broke out in Sudan's capital Khartoum between the Sudanese Army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), just a few hours before the cease-fire deal between the two sides would expire. Violent clashes erupt in Sudan's capital shortly before cease-fire deal expires According to eyewitnesses, the clashes took place on Monday in Omdurman and Bahri (Khartoum North) cities, where the Sudanese Army launched airstrikes on RSF sites in the two cities, while the RSF responded with anti-aircraft missiles, Xinhua news agency reported.According to media reports, indirect negotiations are taking place in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah to extend the Agreement on a Short-Term Cease-fire and Humanitarian Arrangements, which was signed by the two sides on May 20 in Jeddah under Saudi-U.S. patronage.The seven-day truce, which entered into force on May 22, is scheduled to expire at 945 p.m. local time (1945 GMT) on Monday.Sudan has been witnessing deadly armed clashes between the Sudanese Army and the RSF in Khartoum and other areas since April 15.In its latest update on the situation in Sudan on Wednesday, the International Organization for Migration said the conflict in Sudan has forced more than 1.36 million people to flee their homes, including nearly 320,000 who escaped to neighboring countries.According to a report of the Sudanese Doctors Syndicate on Sunday, the casualty toll of civilians since the beginning of the clashes has climbed to 866 deaths and 3,721 injuries.IANS31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Manisha Koirala leaves for home after a hectic late-night shoot Mumbai, May 31: Actor Manisha Koirala, who is currently shooting for her next project, shared a video after a hectic night shoot schedule, on Wednesday. Manisha Koirala leaves for home after a hectic late-night shoot Manisha while heading back home after the pack of her upcoming project's shoot took to her Instagram story and dropped a clip. Sharing the video, she wrote, 'Returning home early morning...#filming #nightshift."The famed actor made the video while sitting in the rear seat of the car while travelling back home at 530 a.m.Meanwhile, on the work front, Manisha was seen in Netflix's original film titled Maska, directed by Neeraj Udhwani.Manisha will be seen in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Heeramandi' with Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sharmin Segal, and Sanjeeda Sheikh.'Heeramandi' will explore stories of courtesans and the hidden cultural reality of Heeramandi, a dazzling district, during pre-independent India in Lahore.Basically, it is a series about love, betrayal, succession, and politics in the kothas which promises SLB's trademark larger-than-life sets, multi-faceted characters and soulful compositions.Earlier, the director, along with, Netflix's co-CEO Ted Sarandos unveiled the first glimpse of his first global drama series, 'Heeramandi'. The cast of the series dressed in similar coloured outfits and heavy jewellery. In another teaser, the women are dressed in all-black outfits.ANI31 May 2023 Shared Recently! All efforts taken to ensure public safety: TN Forest dept on measures to capture Arikomban Chennai, May 31: Tamil Forest Department has informed that all efforts were being taken to ensure public safety while handling the situation arising out of the movement of rogue elephant 'Arikomban' in Tamil Nadu's Cumbum town and adjoint areas. All efforts taken to ensure public safety: TN Forest dept on measures to capture 'Arikomban' According to an official release, law and order are maintained through the proclamation of Section 144 in the Cumbum Municipality area. "District Collector, Theni is closely monitoring the situation. Despite the complex situation, all efforts are being taken to ensure the safety of the public while ensuring the safety of the elephant as well," the statement said.The release further stated that the state government has constituted a committee headed by the field director and chief conservator of Forests, SMTR comprising the deputy director, Megamalai division; district forest officer, Theni and deputy director, Srivilliputhur division, assistant conservator of Forests, Megamalai division and assistant conservator of Forests, Forest Protection Squad, Madurai to translocate the elephant deep inside the forests."A team of Veterinarians supported by 16 elephant trackers from Mudumalai and Anamalai Tiger Reserves including local elephant trackers of Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve are monitoring the movement of the elephant. The elephant is also tracked through a radio collar," the statement read.It added that three Kumki elephants -- 'Suyambu' and 'Muthu' from Topslip Elephant camp and 'Udhayan' from Mudumalai elephant camps -- are on the spot to support the operation.Further, according to the release, the Field Director, SMTR has formed four core teams to operate on two shifts to monitor the elephant movement."Separate teams for logistics, Kumki handling, resource mobilization and other requirements are formed to operate round the clock. An exclusive team is monitoring the safe passage of elephant with the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board to prevent electrocution," it added.A central control room has been set up at the Cumbum Forest Range Office campus to ensure overall coordination, the statement said, adding that a total of 160 forest personnel from Theni district and 31 forest personnel from Srivilliputhur Division, ATR, MTR, Hosur and Coimbatore are deployed on the ground.Meanwhile, the Kerala High Court, in a writ petition, passed an order for the capture and relocation of 'Arikomban', which is aged 35 years.The tusker was translocated by the Kerala Forest Department in the Periyar Tiger Reserve on April 29, on the interstate border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.ANI31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Researchers imaged biological specimens with X-rays without damage Hamburg, May 30: A pollen particle revealing the nanofoam within, or a diatom with the various geometric features inside clearly visible: Using high-energy X-rays from DESY's PETRA III synchrotron light source, a team lead by CFEL scientists Saa Bajt and Henry Chapman was able to photograph these structures without destroying them. Researchers imaged biological specimens with X-rays without damage Their new method produces high-resolution X-ray photographs of dried biological material that has not been frozen, coated, or otherwise altered--all with little to no sample damage. This technology, which is also used for airport baggage scanning, may provide nanometre-resolution photographs of the substance. The particular technology permits imaging to be conducted at less than 1% of the specimen's X-ray damage threshold by using high energy X-rays that are sharply focused using a set of innovative diffractive lenses.The results, which reveal this method as a promising tool for brighter next-generation light sources such as the planned upgrade project PETRA IV, have been published in the journal Light Science and Applications.X-ray light interacts with biological material in a variety of ways, mostly depending on the energy and intensity of the light. At the same time, radiation damage, such as small structural changes up to complete degradation of the sample, is the limiting factor during X-ray imaging of biological samples. At low energies, the X-rays are primarily absorbed by the atoms in the sample, whose electrons take on the energy, causing them to spring out of the atoms and cause damage to the sample. Images using these low-energy X-rays thus map out the sample's absorption of the radiation.At higher energies, absorption is less likely, and a process called elastic scattering occurs, where the X-ray photons "bounce" off of the matter like billiard balls without depositing their energy. Techniques such as crystallography or ptychography use this interaction. Nevertheless, absorption can still occur, meaning damage to the sample happens anyway. But there is a third interaction Compton scattering, where the X-rays leave only a tiny amount of their energy in the target material. Compton scattering had been largely ignored as a viable method of X-ray microscopy, since it requires even higher X-ray energies where until now no suitable high-resolution lenses existed."We used Compton scattering and we figured out that the amount of energy deposited into a sample per number of photons that you can detect is lower than using these other methods," says Chapman, who is a leading scientist at DESY, a professor at Universitat Hamburg, and inventor of different X-ray techniques at synchrotrons and free-electron lasers.The advantage of low dose in the sample posed a challenge for making suitable lenses. High-energy X-rays pass through all materials and are hardly refracted, or bent, as needed for focussing. Bajt, who is a group leader at CFEL, led efforts to develop a new kind of refractive lens, called multilayer Laue lenses. These new optics comprise over 7300 nanometre-thin alternating layers of silicon carbide and tungsten carbide that the team used to construct a holographic optical element that was thick enough to efficiently focus the X-ray beam.Using this lens system and the PETRA III beamline P07 at DESY, the team imaged a variety of biological materials by detecting Compton scattering data as the sample was passed through the focused beam. This mode of scanning microscopy requires a very bright source - the brighter, the better - which is focused to a spot that defines the image resolution. PETRA III is one of the synchrotron radiation facilities worldwide which is bright enough at high X-ray energies to be able to acquire images this way in a reasonable time. The technique could reach its full potential with the planned PETRA IV facility.To test the method, the team used a cyanobacterium, a diatom, and even a pollen grain collected directly outside the lab ("a very local specimen," Bajt laughs) as their samples, and achieved a resolution of 70 nanometres for each.Moreover, when compared with images obtained from a similar pollen sample using a conventional coherent-scattering imaging method at an energy of 17 keV, Compton X-ray microscopy achieved a similar resolution with 2000 times lower X-ray dose. "When we re-examined the specimens using a light microscope after the experiment, we could not see any trace of where the beam had come in contact with them," she explains - meaning no radiation damage was left behind."These results could even be better," Chapman said. "Ideally, an experiment like this would use a spherical detector, because the X-rays coming out of the sample go in every direction from the sample. In that way, it's a bit like a particle physics collision experiment, where you need to collect data in all directions."Additionally, Chapman pointed out that the image of the cyanobacteria is relatively featureless as compared to the others. However, the data indicate that at a higher brightness, such as that of the planned PETRA IV upgrade, individual organelles and even structures in three dimensions would become visible - up to a resolution of 10 nm without damage being a problem. "Really, the only limitation of this technique was not the nature of the technique itself but rather the source, namely its brightness," says Bajt.With a brighter source, the method could then be used for imaging whole unsectioned cells or tissue, complementing cryo-electron microscopy and super-resolution optical microscopy, or for tracking nanoparticles within a cell, such as for directly observing drug delivery. The characteristics of Compton scattering makes this method ideal for non-biological uses as well, such as examining the mechanics of battery charging and discharging."There hasn't been anything like this technique in the literature yet," said Bajt, "so there is much to explore going forward."ANI31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Decision on new election commissioner to be taken at appropriate time: Bengal Guv Kolkata, May 30: A decision on the appointment of new state election commissioner in West Bengal will be taken at appropriate time, Governor C.V. Ananda Bose said on Tuesday. Decision on new election commissioner to be taken at appropriate time: Bengal Guv However, he did not give any specific deadline by when his office will clear the new name for the chair from those recommended by the state government,The Governor's statement comes at a point when the post of the West Bengal State Election Commission has been lying vacant. The tenure of Sourav Das has ended already and the office of the Governor is yet to give clearance for any of the two names recommended by the state secretariat. Initially, the state government recommended the name of the former state chief secretary Rajiva Sinha.However, as the Governor refused to take any decision based on a single recommendation, the state government recommended the name of Ajit Ranjan Bardhan, the current additional chief secretary to the North Bengal Development Department. However, a third recommendation has been sought from the office of the governor now.The crisis on this count is looming in the backdrop of the forthcoming elections to the three-tier panchayat system in the state.However, bureaucratic circles are of the opinion that although the matter may be delayed for some time, ultimately the Governor House will have to choose any one name from those recommended by the state government. There is not much provision for the Governor House to insist on its own choice for the post of state election commissioner unless the state government agrees on that, pointed out a bureaucrat on strict condition of anonymity.IANS31 May 2023 Shared Recently! National Family Health Survey 6: A Comprehensive Snapshot of Indias Health and Well-being Jammu and Kashmir, May 30: In a remarkable endeavour to assess the nation's demographic and health landscape, India is preparing for the sixth edition of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6). This crucial initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), aims to provide accurate and reliable data on health and family welfare indicators, shedding light on emerging issues affecting the nation. National Family Health Survey 6: A Comprehensive Snapshot of India's Health and Well-being This time, the NFHS-6 is poised to be a groundbreaking milestone as it takes place under the sole leadership of the Government of India. NFHS series has been instrumental in fortifying India's database on health and family welfare since its inception in the early 1990s.The previous rounds, NFHS-2, NFHS-3, NFHS-4, and NFHS-5, have played pivotal roles in shaping policies and programs while addressing the country's evolving health challenges. This new edition, NFHS-6, will carry forward this legacy, contributing to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's decision-making process by providing crucial information and data-driven insights.Building on the success of NFHS-4, which is considered a benchmark in India's pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals, the scope of NFHS-6 has been expanded significantly.The survey will cover all 28 states and 8 union territories, ensuring that estimates of key indicators reach the district level in all 731 districts across the country. To achieve this, the NFHS-6 sample size is expected to encompass approximately 676,800 households in 371 districts.Comtech IT Education Trust, a renowned data management and market research provider, has been entrusted with the critical task of conducting fieldwork in the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Leveraging their extensive experience in data collection and analysis, particularly from hard-to-reach and rural populations, Comtech IT Education Trust will play a pivotal role in gathering accurate and comprehensive information as per the survey schedules framed by the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS).Radhika Sharma, the director of Comtech IT Education Trust, expressed their dedication to the NFHS-6 project, saying, "We are honoured to be part of this nationwide endeavour to capture valuable data on health and family welfare. Our team is committed to conducting thorough and meticulous surveys in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, ensuring that the voices of every household are heard and their experiences accurately documented."Fieldwork for NFHS-6 is divided into two phases. In the first phase, a total of 1,056 primary sampling units (PSUs) have been meticulously mapped, capturing both residential and non-residential structures. Following the randomization process, 20 to 22 households have been selected from each PSU for the second phase.In this crucial phase, Comtech IT Education Trust's dedicated team of 154 investigators, recruited from various districts of Jammu and Kashmir, will visit these households for interviews and clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical (CAB) testing.To ensure the quality and reliability of the collected data, the NFHS-6 fieldwork will employ computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) on mini-notebook computers. Height and weight measurements for women aged 15-49, men aged 15-54, and children under 5 years will be included, along with blood glucose and hypertension measurements. Additionally, a subsample of respondents will provide finger-stick blood samples for laboratory testing of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV.Moreover, NFHS-6 will tackle emerging issues that are integral to India's health landscape. The survey will shed light on topics such as financial and digital inclusion of women, and COVID-19-related issues including infections, hospitalization, deaths, vaccination, and financial burdens.The provision of printed informative brochures in local languages on blood pressure, blood glucose, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV demonstrates the comprehensive and inclusive approach of the survey.As the field investigators from Comtech IT Education Trust traverse the diverse landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, they will strive to collect data that truly reflects the ground reality. With a team comprised of nearly 60% female field investigators, the NFHS-6 data collection process also reflects a commitment to gender inclusivity and empowering women.National Family Health Survey has long been a cornerstone in India's pursuit of better health outcomes for its citizens. NFHS-6, with its expanded scope and comprehensive approach, promises to provide policymakers, researchers, and communities with invaluable insights into the nation's health and family welfare landscape. Through the dedication and expertise of organizations like Comtech IT Education Trust, this vital survey will help shape evidence-based policies and interventions, ultimately contributing to the well-being of the Indian population.ANI31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Anupam Kher pays touching tribute to MS Dhoni after IPL 2023 win Mumbai, May 30: After MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) defeated Hardik Pandya's Gujarat Titans (GT) and clinched their fifth Indian Premier League (IPL) title on Monday, congratulatory messages have been pouring in. Actor Anupam Kher who played father in Dhoni's biopic paid a touching tribute on social media. Anupam Kher pays touching tribute to MS Dhoni after IPL 2023 win Taking to Instagram, Anupam dropped pictures featuring MS Dhoni with a trophy and old pictures from the sets.Sharing the pictures, he wrote, "My dear #MSDhoni! When I played your father in the movie #Dhoni I used to do my scene remembering the ups and downs of your biography before every shot to bring reality to every scene. It has been almost 7 years since that film was released. But even today the eyes of the cricket ground become moist with pride and love seeing your nature and playing. Congratulations and best wishes for every victory of life! May you always be victorious!"Helmed by Neeraj Pandey, the biopic 'MS Dhoni The Untold Story' is based on the life of former Test, ODI and T20l captain of the Indian national cricket team Mahendra Singh Dhoni.Starring the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput as MS Dhoni, the film also features Disha Patani, Kiara Advani and Anupam Kher in pivotal roles.The film was not only loved by a legion of his fans and critics alike, but it also became one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films in 2016.In this Sushant won the audience's hearts with his spectacular performance as Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the biopic. Many left spellbound, some were even confused about whether they watched Sushant or Dhoni on screen, clearly proving what a great actor Sushant was. From Dhoni's walk to the way he talks, Sushant took note of everything and that was beautifully depicted in the film.CSK defeated GT in a last-ball thriller by five wickets at Ahmedabad on Monday.A rock-solid partnership between Conway-Ruturaj had helped set the foundation for a successful run-chase, but a game-changing spell from Mohit Sharma threatened to take away the win from CSK. However, Dube and Jadeja kept calm to seal a memorable title win for the Men in Yellow.Soon after the match, several Bollywood celebs took to their social media handles and congratulated CSK for their 5th IPL title win.Kartik Aaryan, Vicky Kaushal, Ranveer Singh, and others congratulated the team for the win.Meanwhile, Kher on the work front, he will be next seen in 'Emergency', 'Metro In Dino', 'Kaagaz 2', 'The Signature', among others.ANI31 May 2023 Shared Recently! IMTS Institute Noida: Revolutionizing education and empowering 60k students for a bright future VMPL, New Delhi, May 31: In today's fast-paced world, where time and distance are often big problems for getting an education, the has become a beacon of hope for a lot of students. IMTS Institute Noida: Revolutionizing education and empowering 60k students for a bright future The IMTS Institute is changing the way people learn and teach by taking a new approach to online education and online classes. By using the power of technology, the IMTS Institute gives students more control over their education, breaks down barriers, and makes a good education available to everyone.Through online education and online classes, the IMTS Institute is at the forefront of empowering education and breaking down barriers. By embracing technology and making the most of its potential, the IMTS Institute has given a lot of students new opportunities and made it possible for them to pursue their educational goals without limits.Through accessibility, flexibility, quality education, personalized approaches, and robust support systems, the IMTS Institute is revolutionizing the landscape and empowering students to reach new heights of success. With the IMTS Institute, the power of knowledge knows no boundaries, and the opportunities for growth and learning are limitless.Over 60,000 Success Stories and Counting IMTS Institute's Remarkable Track Record in Student AchievementsRecognized as a premier educational institution in India, IMTS Institute boasts an impressive track record of over 60,000 students passing. Graduates from the institute have consistently excelled in prestigious companies both in India and abroad. The institute has garnered glowing reviews from its students, and IMTS Institute takes pride in its strong support system, ensuring that students never feel alone in their educational journey. From academic counselors to technical support teams, a dedicated network of professionals is readily available to assist students at every step. Whether it's clarifying doubts, providing guidance on course selection, or addressing technical issues, students can rely on the IMTS Institute's support services for a seamless learning experience.IMTS Institute understands that quality education is paramount for students to succeed in their chosen fields. With a dedicated team of experienced educators and subject matter experts, the IMTS Institute ensures that the online classes maintain the same high standards as traditional classroom settings. Through interactive sessions, engaging course materials, and personalized attention, students receive a comprehensive education that equips them with the knowledge and skills required to excel.IMTS Institute's commitment to excellence has earned them an unrivaled reputation in the industry, leading to their plans to expand into new horizons. The institute is now setting its sights on Dubai, with preparations underway to establish a new office in the near future. This bold move marks an exciting new chapter in the institute's journey, solidifying its position as a global leader in education.At the IMTS Institute, education is not merely a concept but a transformative experience. The IMTS Institute is committed to providing top-notch education to students regardless of their location, and it does so with the help of a highly qualified and skilled faculty and a strong support system of over 200 career counselors. Focusing on career-oriented individuals, the institute strives to empower its students to reach the pinnacle of success through its unparalleled educational programs.Breaking barriers with the IMTS Institute's Learning ProgramsIf your location has been a hindrance to accessing quality education, bid farewell to your worries with IMTS Institute's innovative distance learning programs. Specifically tailored for individuals residing in various parts of the world, IMTS' distance learning programs are designed to be nothing short of exceptional. But don't just take our word for it--let's hear from IMTS alumni who can provide insights into the institute's offerings and reputation.IMTS Institute's Personalized ApproachOne of the key aspects that sets IMTS Institute apart is its personalized approach to . Recognizing that each student is unique with different learning styles and preferences, the IMTS Institute provides customized learning experiences. Through one-on-one interactions, virtual discussions, and collaborative projects, students can actively engage with their instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and promoting a deeper understanding of the subject matter.IMTS Support and GuidanceIMTS Institute takes pride in its strong support system, ensuring that students never feel alone in their educational journey. From academic counselors to technical support teams, a dedicated network of professionals is readily available to assist students at every step. Whether it's clarifying doubts, providing guidance on course selection, or addressing technical issues, students can rely on the IMTS Institute's support services for a seamless learning experience.(Disclaimer The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)ANI31 May 2023 Shared Recently! New deep learning model may predict preterm births as early as 31 weeks New York, May 31: Researchers have developed a new model using deep learning that can predict preterm births as early as 31 weeks of pregnancy. New deep learning model may predict preterm births as early as 31 weeks Preterm birth, which occurs when a baby is born before 37 weeks of gestation, affects nearly 10 per cent of pregnancies worldwide, and rates are on the rise.The team at the Washington University in St. Louis developed the model by analysing electrical activity during pregnancy."Our method predicts preterm births using electrohysterogram measurements and clinical information acquired around the 31st week of gestation with a performance comparable to the clinical standards used to detect imminent labour in women with symptoms of preterm labour," said Arye Nehorai, Professor of Electrical Engineering at Preston M. Green Department of Electrical iamp; Systems Engineering, .To design their method, the team used measurements from electrohysterograms (EHG) -- a noninvasive technique that detects uterine electrical activity through electrodes placed on the abdomen, as well as clinical information from two public databases, such as age, gestational age, weight, and bleeding in the first or second trimester.They trained a deep learning model on data from 30-minute EHGs performed on a total of 159 pregnant women who were at least 26 weeks' gestation.Some recordings were obtained during regular check-ups while others were recorded from mothers who were hospitalised with symptoms of preterm labour. Of all the women, nearly 19 per cent delivered preterm, according to the results of the research published in the journal PLoS One.In their research, the team found that various components of the EHG measurements contributed to their model's predictions. Higher frequency components of the EHG measurements were more predictive of preterm births.They also found that their model was effective in prediction with shorter EHG recordings, which could make the model easier to use, more cost-effective in a clinical setting and possibly usable in a home setting."Preterm birth is an abnormal physiological condition, not just a pregnancy that happened to end early," Nehorai said."Therefore, we can expect that physiological measurements, such as EHG recordings, may show a stronger dichotomy between pregnancies that end with either preterm or term deliveries than is shown in continuous characteristics correlated with gestational age at delivery."Going forward, the researchers plan to develop a device to record EHG measurements and to collect data from a larger cohort of pregnant women to improve their method and validate results.IANS31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Renowned scientist, Jio Institutes provost Guruswami Ravichandran receives ASME Timoshenko medal for contribution in applied mechanics Mumbai, May 31: Jio Institute on Wednesday announced that its provost and distinguished scientist, Dr Guruswami Ravichandran, has been named the recipient of the prestigious 2023 Timoshenko Medal by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). Renowned scientist, Jio Institute's provost Guruswami Ravichandran receives ASME Timoshenko medal for contribution in applied mechanics This highly coveted accolade recognises Ravichandran "for pioneering contributions to the mechanics of engineering materials and biological systems, especially in extreme mechanical environments", Jio Institute said in a statement.Named after the illustrious engineer and educator Stephen P. Timoshenko, the Timoshenko Medal established in 1957 is bestowed annually in recognition of distinguished contributions to the field of applied mechanics. The award is widely recognised as the highest honour worldwide in the field of applied mechanics.Guruswami Ravichandran is the founding Provost of Jio Institute.According to Jio Institute, he is a highly accomplished scientist and academician who has made significant contributions to the field of solid mechanics and materials science and engineering. He is renowned for his expertise in experimental mechanics, particularly in dynamic behaviour and failure of materials.Ravichandran's multidisciplinary research expanded the understanding of mechanical behaviour and led to significant applications that have influenced engineering practice."I am immensely proud to congratulate Dr Ravichandran on this remarkable achievement",said Palak Sheth, Project Director, Jio Institute. "We are privileged to have Dr Ravichandran as a driving force behind our commitment to excellence in education and research. We look forward to his continued guidance to be able to make a significant impact on education and society at large," he added.Throughout his career, Ravichandran has conducted pioneering research in the field of mechanics of materials. According to Jio Institute, he has made substantial advancements in understanding the dynamic behaviour of materials, including metals, polymers, and composites, under high strain rates and high pressures.His research has led to crucial insights into the deformation and failure mechanisms of materials and the development of novel techniques for characterizing their thermomechanical properties. He also contributed to the development of a novel three-dimensional traction force microscopy technique for studying biological cell-matrix interactions and a method for investigating the mechanics of large-strain ferroelectric actuators under combined electromechanical loading.Ravichandran earned his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the National Institute of Technology, Trichy, in 1981. He then pursued his Master's in Engineering and Applied Mathematics and Ph.D. in Engineering (Solid Mechanics and Structures) from Brown University, completing his doctoral studies in 1986. Following his education, Ravichandran embarked on an illustrious career in academia and research.According to the statement from Jio Institute, the institute is an institution of higher learning committed to providing students with a transformative education that prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world.ANI31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Chinas smartwatch shipments drop to lowest in 3 years New Delhi, May 31: Chinas smartwatch shipments declined 28 per cent (year-on-year) and 16 per cent (on-quarter) in the first quarter -- the lowest level in 12 quarters. China's smartwatch shipments drop to lowest in 3 years The country's smartwatch market did not fully recover in the first full quarter after reopening, according to Counterpoint Research.The top three brands were Huawei, Apple and BBK (imoo). They accounted for nearly 60 per cent of China's smartwatch market."Although the Spring Festival can boost consumption generally, the demand for smartwatches was still weak in Q1 2023. This was similar to what we saw in China's smartphone shipments. The market needs more time to recover," said senior analyst Shenghao Bai.Among the types of smartwatches, the high-level operating system (HLOS) smartwatch's shipments saw the smallest YoY drop even as its share increased to 45 per cent from 39 per cent in Q1 2022.Meanwhile, China's 'kids smartwatch' shipments decreased 31 per cent YoY. The country is the world's biggest kids smartwatch market.Huawei was the biggest winner in China's smartwatch market with a 27 per cent share, owing to its strategy of having multiple portfolios.The Huawei Watch GT 3 was the second best-selling model in Q1 2023.Apple took the second largest share, mainly driven by its Apple Watch Series 8 and Apple Watch SE 2022.OPPO was the only one among the main brands to see its shipments increase both YoY and QoQ.IANS31 May 2023 Shared Recently! Champaign, IL (61820) Today Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. Hazy. High 84F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight A few passing clouds. Low 57F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Download Now The News-Gazette mobile app brings you the latest local breaking news, updates, and more. Read the News-Gazette on your mobile device just as it appears in print. A little-known bacterium -; a distant cousin of the microbes that cause tuberculosis and leprosy -; is emerging as a public health threat capable of causing severe lung infections among vulnerable populations, those with compromised immunity or reduced lung function. Recent research found that various strains of the bacterium, Mycobacterium abscessus, were genetically similar, stoking fears that it was spreading from person to person. But a new study by Harvard Medical School researchers published May 22 in PNAS, calls those findings into question, offering an alternative explanation behind the genetic similarity of clinical clusters. This suggests that the pathogen may not be that prone to person-to-person transmission after all. Our findings make a strong case for a different explanation behind the observed genetic similarities across strains." Maha Farhat, study senior author, the Gilbert S. Omenn Associate Professor of Biomedical Informatics at HMS and a pulmonary disease expert at Massachusetts General Hospital Farhat conducted the work in collaboration with Eric Rubin's lab at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The results, Farhat added, argue against direct person-to-person transmission in clinical settings and instead point to M. abscessus infections being acquired from the home or other environmental exposures. In addition to having implications for the precautions that hospitals take to prevent outbreaks, it's an important new clue into the behavior of a relatively unknown pathogen that poses serious risks for vulnerable populations. The research not only contributes to the understanding of M. abscessus transmission, but also suggests scientists should be cautious about assuming human transmission when they see genetic similarities in pathogens more generally, said study first author Nicoletta Commins, who conducted the research as a doctoral candidate at HMS and is now a postdoctoral fellow at the Broad Institute. "Our results certainly do not refute the possibility of person-to-person transmission of Mycobacterium abscessus in some cases, and more research is needed to inform best clinical practice for vulnerable patients," she said. "However, our work supports a model in which person-to-person transmission may not be as common as it is sometimes suggested to be." M. abscessus is a hardy microbe highly resistant to antibiotics and can infect the lungs of immunocompromised people. While it doesn't pose a threat to most healthy individuals, it can cause severe infection in those with suppressed immunity or people with compromised lung function such as patients with cystic fibrosis, a genetic condition marked by recurrent lung infections and lung scarring. Notably, patients with CF who become infected with this organism become ineligible for lifesaving lung transplants. The earlier study that sounded the alarm about person-to-person transmission was based on genetic sequencing of M. abscessus samples obtained from cystic fibrosis patients at clinics in the United States, Australia, and Europe, including the United Kingdom. Researchers found few genetic mutations across the samples -; a possible sign that the pathogen was spreading directly between humans. For many pathogens such as TB, for example, recent person-to-person transmission leads to only a few or no mutations between any pair of samples simply because the pathogen does not have much time to acquire genetic mutations, Farhat explained. "Understandably, observing the genetic similarity between M. abscessus samples caused a great deal of anxiety and fear around how these organisms could be transmitting," she said. Clinicians, especially in clinics that treat cystic fibrosis patients, began taking extra precautions to avert transmission. However, follow-up investigations failed to find supporting evidence that human-to-human transmission was happening, raising questions about other possible explanations for the genetic similarities across samples. Farhat's team set out to investigate a hypothesis that the samples appeared genetically similar because the pathogen was evolving at a very slow rate. "We thought, yeah, you observed a small number of mutations, but we don't know how quickly these mutations are acquired, she explained. "It may be slower than we think, and links between samples that appear recent may not be.'" The scientists first used a large dataset of M. abscessus genomes to create a "tree of life," a kind of genetic family tree for the bacterium. They looked at branches of the tree with clusters of genetically similar strains, then tried to calculate their evolutionary rate. They found that these genetically similar clusters were evolving around 10 times more slowly than typical M. abscessus strains. Next, they used computer modeling to determine whether the genetic similarities could be explained by the relatively small population size of these bacteria. But even when they simulated extreme population sizes, the result didn't change. This was an indicator that the high genetic similarity is best explained by a slower evolutionary rate. Finally, researchers conducted experiments to see how fast different strains of M. abscessus evolved to develop resistance when exposed to antibiotics in the lab. They found that the genetically similar strains evolved much more slowly than other strains. "These are three separate lines of evidence supporting this idea that these clustered isolates of Mycobacterium abscessus are evolving at a slower rate," Farhat said. In addition to reducing concern about person-to-person transmission, the findings provide new insight into a poorly understood pathogen. In particular, the results offer clues about how a bug found primarily in the environment adapts and changes after it enters the human body -; information that could help scientists eventually understand how to prevent and treat infections. Farhat is now planning follow-up studies that would compare bacteria in the environment with samples taken from patients, to better understand why certain patients become infected. In a recent study published in the journal EClinicalMedicine, researchers quantify the number of dementia cases that would occur in the absence of hypertension to estimate the dementia-associated population attributable fraction (PAF) of hypertension at global, national, and regional levels. Study: Population attributable fraction of hypertension for dementia: global, regional, and national estimates for 186 countries. Image Credit: Shine Nucha / Shutterstock.com Background About 57 million individuals around the world are believed to be living with dementia, which is one of the leading causes of years lived with disability. Previous studies have shown that hypertension, especially during midlife, increases the likelihood of dementia. Recent meta-analyses have shown that reducing blood pressure levels is associated with a reduced risk of dementia. However, the global rates of detection and treatment of hypertension, especially in low-income countries, are suboptimal. To implement public health interventions to reduce the health burden and prevalence of dementia, it is essential to understand the PAF of specific risk factors. Previously, dementia-related PAF for hypertension was estimated based only on a history of diagnosed hypertension, which presents the risk of underestimation of hypertension prevalence. Thus, a more accurate method of estimating the prevalence of both hypertension and dementia, as well as the association between these two conditions, is needed to better understand the dementia-associated PAF of hypertension. About the study In the present study, researchers searched publicly available governmental and international databases to determine the prevalence of dementia and hypertension on a population level. Longitudinal observation studies that examined how hypertension was associated with dementia in an age-specific manner were considered for the study. The inclusion criteria comprised observational studies with data from longitudinal follow-ups, a large study population of over 500, an examination of the association between the age of diagnosis of hypertension with all-cause dementia risk, and an age-wise report of hazard ratios. Studies that were cross-sectional examined non-community dwelling specific cohorts such as inpatients reported only on the association related to vascular dementia, or did not include metrics specific to age were excluded. Regional population data were obtained for six of the geoscheme regions stipulated by the United Nations (U.N.), including Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, Oceania, North America, and Latin America. National-level data was obtained from the 2019 U.N. World Population Prospectus. The definition of hypertension was based on systolic and diastolic blood pressures exceeding 140 mm Hg and 90 mm Hg, respectively, or the regular use of medications to control hypertension. Dementia hazard ratios (HRs) that were multi-variable adjusted and based on the age of hypertension diagnosis were obtained from the United Kingdom Biobank, which presents HRs for dementia for those less than 35 of age, between 35 and 44, between 45 and 54, and between 55 and 64 years. HRs for ages above 65 and below 75 were obtained from an Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study (ARIC). PAF was calculated by determining the proportion of all cases associated with hypertension among the total number of cases, with male and female PAF values considered separately. Results The dementia-related PAF of hypertension is 15.8%, thus indicating that methods to improve early detection and treatment could significantly reduce the risk of dementia. Prevalence data for dementia and hypertension were reported by 186 countries, with the highest dementia-related PAF of hypertension observed in the Caribbean and Latin America (18%) and Europe (17.2%) The age-specific fraction of dementia globally attributed to hypertension was the highest for individuals between the ages of 30 and 44 years of age and decreased with age. The 2019 estimate for dementia cases attributable to hypertension was 9.5 million. The previous dementia-related PAF of hypertension, which was calculated based on prior hypertension history, was 3.9%. The findings of the present study highlight that the prevalence of the association between hypertension and dementia was much higher than previously estimated. Nevertheless, these observations also support the recent research and global action plan designed by the World Health Organization to address mid-life hypertension in an attempt to lower the global health burden of dementia. Conclusions The current study reported national, regional, and global estimates of dementia-related PAF of hypertension to be 15.8%. Thus, there remains an urgent need to optimize diagnostic and treatment methods for hypertension to reduce the dementia-associated global health burden, as well as address mid-life hypertension to reduce the worldwide prevalence of dementia. Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Hissein Brahim Taha has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Your Excellency Mr. President, On the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan, I have the honor to extend to Your Excellency and to the people of Azerbaijan my heartfelt congratulations. I pray to Almighty Allah for the health and wellness of Your Excellency, and for further progress and prosperity for the people of Azerbaijan. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) values its strong ties with the Republic of Azerbaijan, and commends its role in supporting the OIC and promoting joint Islamic action, an objective for which the OIC was established. The OIC will continue its efforts in serving its Member States, promoting their common values, and strengthening the bonds of mutual cooperation amongst them. I look forward to Your Excellency's support lo strengthen the solidarity among the peoples of our Member States, and opening up new horizons for joint Islamic action. Please accept, Your Excellency Mr. President, the assurances of my highest consideration and regards. Hissein Brahim Taha, OIC Secretary General Links have been reported between schizophrenia and proteins produced by the immune system that can act against one's own body, known as autoantibodies. In a study published last month in Brain Behavior and Immunity, Japanese researchers identified autoantibodies that target a 'synaptic adhesion protein', neurexin 1, in a subset of patients with schizophrenia. When injected into mice, the autoantibodies caused many schizophrenia-related changes. What is a synaptic protein, and why might it be linked to schizophrenia? Synaptic adhesion proteins are specialized proteins that bind to create physical connections between brain cells. These connections, called synapses, allow the cells to communicate by passing molecules back and forth. Both synapses and autoimmunity are known to be associated with schizophrenia, so the research team from Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) decided to investigate autoantibodies that target synaptic proteins in patients with schizophrenia. In around 2% of our patient population, we identified autoantibodies against the synaptic protein neurexin 1, which is expressed by one cell in the synapse and binds to proteins known as neuroligins on the other cell in the synapse. Once we had identified these autoantibodies, we wanted to see if they were able to cause schizophrenia-related changes." Hiroki Shiwaku, lead author of the study To do this, the researchers isolated autoantibodies from some of the patients with schizophrenia and injected them into the cerebrospinal fluid of mice, so that the autoantibodies would travel into the brain. In these mice, the autoantibodies blocked neurexin 1 and neuroligin binding and altered some related synaptic properties. The administration of these autoantibodies also resulted in fewer synapses in the brains of mice and schizophrenia-related behaviors, such as reduced social behavior toward unfamiliar mice and reduced cognitive function. "Together, our results strongly suggest that autoantibodies against neurexin 1 can cause schizophrenia-related changes, at least in mice," explains Hiroki Shiwaku. "These autoantibodies may therefore represent a therapeutic target for a subset of patients with schizophrenia." Schizophrenia has a wide variety of both symptoms and treatment responses, and many patients have symptoms that are resistant to currently available treatment options. Therefore, the identification of possible disease-causing autoantibodies is important for improving symptom control in patients with schizophrenia. It is hoped that the results of this investigation will allow patients with autoantibodies that target neurexin 1-;all of whom were resistant to antipsychotic treatment in the present study-;to better control their symptoms in the future. In general, there is an issue around the quality of information about lupus on the internet. Rumors, unchecked data, and unconfirmed research all contribute to confusion and anxiety, and can lead to people taking the wrong actions for themselves and their disease. There is therefore a need for access to quality information about lupus. Therapeutic patient education (TPE) is a key way to help people self-manage chronic conditions such as lupus. An essential component of TPE is access to valid information but this is often available only in English, which is not the native tongue for most people in Europe. Data suggest that the overall number of EU citizens who can speak English is just 44%, and even those who are fluent may not understand medical terminology or disease information. The www.Lupus100.org website aims to change this by providing disease information and education about lupus to people in their native language. The international launch of the multi-lingual website will coincide with World Lupus Day on 10th May 2023. It is hoped that this project will soon provide access to quality information about lupus to 95% of European patients in their own language, eliminating a crucial barrier to education, and helping to support management decisions. In an abstract presented at the 2023 EULAR congress, the authors outline how the project came about from the first endorsement by experts, to the French book that was used as a starting point for the core content. Patients from the Lupus Europe Patient Advisory Network (PAN) and ERN-ReCONNET doctors worked together to create the English version of the website, which was then updated and adapted for international use. This master version was put online as a starting point for an ambitious multi-lingual translation project. The English version of the site was launched in October 2022. So far, 18 translations are in progress, 10 of which are already available online. Importantly, a process has been established to collect comments and suggestions so that content can be maintained and upgraded on a continuous basis across all language versions. The authors hope that this effective collaboration will guarantee the quality of information on offer, and will represent a resource that can answer patient concerns, improve self-management and disease outcomes, and facilitate patientdoctor communication. EULAR the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology works on a broad spectrum of autoimmune and auto-inflammatory diseases. A rise in the incidence of some of these has been described, raising the possibility that incidence might be impacted by environmental factors. But there is a lack of available data, and commonalities and differences between some individual diseases also remain poorly understood. Conrad and colleagues aimed to clarify the picture by investigating 19 of the most common autoimmune diseases. Their work shared at the 2023 EULAR congress in Milan, Italy assesses trends over time, by sex, age, socioeconomic status, season and region, and examines rates of co-occurrence among autoimmune diseases. The researchers used data from the electronic health records of 22 million people in the UK to calculate incidence and prevalence, and then modeled temporal trends and variation. Between 2000 and 2019, a new diagnosis of one or more autoimmune disease was made in 978,872 people. Taken together the 19 autoimmune disorders studied affected 10.2% of the population or 13.1% of women and 7.4% of men. Importantly, age-standardized incidence rates of autoimmune diseases increased by 4% over the study period, with similar rates in both men and women. The largest increases were seen in Graves' disease, coeliac disease, and Sjogren's syndrome, for which incidences have doubled over the past two decades. Over the same period, the incidence significantly decreased for two conditions: Hashimoto's thyroiditis and pernicious anemia. When the team examined trends in the data, they found a socioeconomic gradient across several diseases, including Graves' disease, pernicious anemia, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Seasonal variations were observed for type 1 diabetes and vitiligo, which are more commonly diagnosed in winter and summer, respectively. Regional variations were also observed for a range of conditions. Autoimmune disorders are commonly associated with each other, particularly Sjogren's, systemic lupus erythematosus, and systemic sclerosis. Patients with type 1 diabetes also have significantly higher rates of Addison's, coeliac, and thyroid diseases, and multiple sclerosis stands out as having low rates of co-occurrence with other autoimmune diseases." Nathalie Conrad, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven in Belgium These results suggest that the burden of autoimmune disease continues to increase over time, albeit modestly. One possible factor could be that awareness for some conditions has increased over the study period, alongside improved coding practices and earlier recognition. Another possibility that could be inferred from the socioeconomic, seasonal, and regional disparities observed is that environmental factors could be implicated in disease pathogenesis. The authors also conclude that the interrelations between autoimmune diseases point a finger at shared mechanisms or factors. CSEMs Tools for Life Sciences team is partnering with MOMM Diagnostics to develop a cutting-edge point-of-care solution for preeclampsia diagnostics. This ground-breaking multiplexed sensing device simultaneously detects two crucial biomarkers associated with this prevalent disease. Successful collaboration between start-up MOMM Diagnostics and the Swiss technology innovation center CSEM (from left to right): Samantha Paoletti (CSEM), Bradley Petkus (CSEM), Christopher Wood (MOMM Diagnostics), Mark Fretz (CSEM) and Mathias Wipf (MOMM Diagnostics). They are looking at a sample of the preeclampsia test. Image Credit: CSEM The solution uses enzyme-linked lateral flow immunoassays (ELLFIA) with ion-sensitive electrodes in a disposable test cartridge. Alongside the development of the disposable test, a specialized digital readout device has been created. This integrated approach offers a point-of-care diagnostic test platform that is 50 to 100 times more sensitive than traditional lateral flow immunoassays. MOMM Diagnostics comprehensive solution for rapid and reliable blood testing holds immense potential as a game-changer in clinical settings. Pregnancy is a time filled with joy and happiness, but it can also bring about stress and anxiety due to potential risks for both mother and baby. Among the various pregnancy complications, one of the most serious and potentially life-threatening conditions is preeclampsia affecting 3 to 8% of pregnant women. It is characterized by high blood pressure and protein leakage in the urine, which can lead to kidney failure, liver failure, seizures, stroke and even death. Women with a family history of preeclampsia, multiple pregnancies, pre-existing high blood pressure, and those who are obese or have diabetes are at higher risk. The importance of early detection The precise cause of preeclampsia remains unknown, but it is believed to stem from inadequate development of the placenta, which supplies crucial oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus. When the placenta does not function optimally, it can result in restricted blood flow, causing damage to the mother's blood vessels and organs. Related Stories Democratizing RNA sequencing: A breakthrough in cost and efficiency Preeclampsia is a treatable condition and, in most cases, both mother and baby make a complete recovery. Regular prenatal care and early detection are key to preventing the serious complications associated with preeclampsia. Traditionally, preeclampsia is diagnosed through monitoring blood pressure, conducting urine protein tests, and evaluating organ function through blood tests. Unfortunately, these processes can be time-consuming, requiring multiple visits and causing anxiety for expectant mothers. The invasive nature of the testing procedures can be uncomfortable and unfamiliar, adding to the stress. The waiting period for test results can be emotionally challenging, heightening fear and anticipation. False negatives or delayed detection can occur, posing risks for both the mother and the baby. False positives, on the other hand, may increase healthcare costs due to unnecessary interventions and potentially hospitalizations. Hope for pregnant women Basel-based start-up MOMM Diagnostics specializes in developing highly sensitive rapid diagnostic tests. Their first test in development focuses on a novel in-vitro diagnostic test for the early diagnosis of preeclampsia, created in collaboration with medical professionals. MOMMs multiplexed point-of-care testing method is quick, accurate, minimally invasive, and can detect the condition at its early stages when treatment is most effective. We analyze two very specific biomarkers in maternal blood. The assay is 50 times more sensitive than traditional rapid tests, detecting the two biomarkers in minute concentrations of several picograms per milliliter using antibodies. The specificity and sensitivity of the biomarkers used in our test are significantly higher than those of the current clinical diagnosis. Mathias Wipf, CEO and Co-founder of the Company. MOMM Diagnostics received financial support from the Swiss Innovation Agency Innosuisse and from the Swiss Nanoscience Institute's Nano Argovia program to work on an electrochemical biosensor for protein detection. The project also involved collaboration with FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, as well as CSEMs Tools for Life Sciences team. Rapid diagnostic test carried out in the doctors office The system resembles a pregnancy test but with electronic result analysis, explains the entrepreneur Wipf. This presents another advantage of the new test: The paper strip can be evaluated with a compact reader, providing a quantitative readout. Since pregnant women regularly visit their gynecologists for check-ups, the test can be conducted in their practices without the need to ship blood samples to specialized diagnostics labs. This saves valuable time time in which treatment can already be started. CSEMs interdisciplinary expertise has played a crucial role in the development of innovative point-of-care solutions. Together, we have already created cutting-edge technologies with the potential to improve healthcare outcomes for women worldwide. We are proud to continue our collaboration with the aim of advancing the development of such an innovative solution. Samantha Paoletti, Head of Research and Business Development, Life Science Technologies, CSEM. CSEM and MOMM Diagnostics also collaborate within the European project NewLife, which focuses on developing a range of innovative technologies for monitoring the health of women and babies during pregnancy and early childhood. "With these projects we financed the development of our prototype", emphasizes Mathias Wipf. "Now, we are seeking investors to propel the technology to the next level. MOMMs rapid preeclampsia test is projected to enter the market by 2025. With its substantial market potential, Wipf anticipates double-digit million sales figures within the first five years. The Basel location, dedicated to R&D and production, is expected to expand to a team of 25 professionals. In a recent study posted to the bioRxiv* preprint server, researchers in the Netherlands assessed the structure of human circulatory immunoglobulin M (IgM) and its relationship with the small CD5 antigen-like (CD5L) protein. They also investigated the role of CD5L in Fc receptor binding and complement activation. *Important notice: bioRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. IgM is a critical constituent of antibody-mediated immunity and is conserved despite evolutionary processes. Among antibody isotypes, IgM emerges first during immunological responses. Immunoglobulin M is a large-sized (1.0 MDa) multimeric proteinaceous molecule, the structure of which has been reported to be pentameric or hexameric, the former comprising a joining (J) chain. About the study In the present study, researchers redefined the structure of serological IgM as a pentamer complexed with CD5L and comprising a J-chain. The team characterized CD5L and IgM by tracking the associations and abundances of the proteins in sera obtained from 42 healthy donors. To determine the quantity of the protein chains (Ig, J, and CD5L), bottom-up proteomics with label-free quantitation was performed. Next, pooled sera were subjected to size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) MS analysis. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were performed to quantify IgM-CD5L complexes. The circulatory IgM structure was analyzed using mass photometry and native charge detection mass spectrometry (CD MS). To investigate IgM and CD5L co-expression among B lymphocytes, memory and naive B lymphocytes were cultured, and supernatant IgM was analyzed. To investigate IgM-CD5L binding mechanisms, recombinant CD5L (rCD5L) and pentameric IgM-J were produced in vitro. To assess the role of C191 and C300 cysteines in IgM-J-CD5L complex formation, recombinant human CD5L (hCD5L) variants were produced with cysteines mutated to serines, and their IgM-J association abilities were evaluated. Structure prediction analyses were also performed. Furthermore, the functional implications of CD5L insertion into IgM were investigated using recombinant biotin-specific monoclonal IgM antibodies and assessing their abilities to induce complement component 3 (C3b) deposition and cause lysis of biotinylated human erythrocytes. Results Circulatory (serological) IgM exclusively existed as a complex of J-chain-containing pentamers covalently bound to the small CD5L (36.0 kDa) protein via CD5L-Cys191. Contrastingly, secretory IgM in milk and saliva lacked CD5L. Unlike IgM, CD5L was not secreted by B lymphocytes, indicating that CD5L was associated with extracellular IgM. The findings indicated that CD5L insertion in IgM had several functional consequences, i.e., it reduced the binding of IgM to two receptors, the polymeric Ig receptor (pIgR) and the FcR. In contrast, FcR binding and C1q-medicated complement seemed unaffected by the integration of CD5L and IgM. CD5L occurred synchronously with IgM in circulation. The team detected a mean CD5L serological concentration of 1.70 M or 60.0 mg/L. Remarkably, CD5L levels correlated strongly with those of the constant region of IgMs heavy chain (IgC), indicating high levels of circulating IgM-CD5L complexes. Further, the CD5L/IgC ratio was ca. 0.2, close to one CD5L molecule per IgM pentamer. Circulatory IgM was primarily a J-chain-linked pentamer with CD5L. The IgM-bound CD5L and total IgM levels correlated in the serological samples, indicating that circulatory IgM existed in a complex form with CD5L. In all circulatory IgM samples, shifts closely matching the incorporation of a CD5L molecule was observed in a 1:1:10 ratio of CD5L:J-chain:IgC. Each IgM molecule was homogeneous in mass and had an oligomeric state. Efficient IgM-rCD5L associations were observed in mildly reducing conditions, indicating that disulfide bonds linking = CD5L and IgM are critical for complex formation. The formation of IgM-CD5L complexes was verified by the CD5L epitope shielding by two anti-CD5L monoclonal antibodies (mAbs, 7E4, and 10D11) that cannot bind to serological IgM. The C191S amino acid substitution markedly decreased the formation of the complexes, whereas the C300S substitution did not, indicating that C191 may be connected to IgM by disulfide bonds. CD5L was positioned in the pentameric IgM-Fc gap, and the secretory component 3 (SRC3) domain was proximal to the joining chain junction between the J chains C- and N-terminal loops. SRC2 was situated on top of the partition separating the Fc-C3 and Fc-C4 domains of the J chains N-terminal, positioning C191 near an unpaired cysteine 414 (Cys414) residue of IgM, and SRC1 was flexible. CD5L-J-IgM equivalently activated the complement, and the rIgM-J antibodies, with or without CF5L, induced cell lysis and C3b deposition in comparable amounts. Likewise, investigating CD5Ls effects on complement component 3 deposition using monoclonal antibodies that bind to the Staphylococcus aureus cell wall-glycopolymer, teichoic acid yielded similar results. Based on the study findings, the canonical form of human serological IgM is a J-chain-linked pentamer with one molecule of the CD5L protein. Professor Albert J.R. Heck We contacted the lead author, Professor Albert J.R. Heck from Utrecht University, for comment. Sometimes in science, you find something so obvious that you wonder why no one has seen this before? You work with your lab on this finding for years to make sure you make no mistake, but then you hear that a befriended colleague independently made the same discovery. We started to work together and generated complementary biochemical, biophysical, structural, and functional data. Now we are ready to share it. The title says it all: CD5L is a canonical component of circulatory IgM! IgM is one of the key and abundant immunoglobulins in our blood and plays a dominant role in our immune response. In sharp contrast with decades of textbook knowledge about its structure, we define the protein CD5L as an ever-present component of human serum IgM. Unlike IgM and the J-chain, CD5L is not produced by B cells, implying that it associates with IgM in the extracellular space. We also demonstrate that CD5L integration has functional implications, i.e., it diminishes IgM binding to two of its receptors, the FcR and the polymeric Immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR). These findings are of high fundamental interest, but as IgM is increasingly developed as a therapeutic, we feel our findings should also impact the biopharmaceutical arena. - Professor Albert J.R. Heck *Important notice: bioRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. Studies on the long-term consequences of COVID-19 (long-COVID) in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases (iRD) are scarce. Where available data do exist, they tend to be heterogeneous and largely inconclusive. In addition, it is not known whether correctly classifying patients with iRD as long-COVID cases is complicated by increased background noise due to the occurrence of persistent symptoms that could be attributed to either long-COVID or iRD. A team in the Netherlands aimed to compare the risk of developing long-COVID after infection with the Omicron variant in iRD patients versus age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Data were collected from participants enrolled in a prospective cohort study. In line with WHO guidelines, long-COVID cases were defined as participants who reported persistent symptoms that lasted at least 8 weeks, started after the onset and within 3 months of a confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, and could not be explained by an alternative diagnosis. A total of 1,974 iRD patients and 733 healthy controls participated, of whom 24% and 30% had an Omicron infection, respectively. Questionnaire data revealed that more patients compared to controls fulfilled long-COVID criteria; 21% versus 13% respectively but this was attenuated after adjusting for potential confounders. Post-hoc modeling showed that higher body mass index and worse severity in the acute infection phase were significantly associated with higher odds of developing long-COVID. Fatigue and loss of fitness were the most frequently reported symptoms of long-COVID in both groups, and recovery time from long-COVID was also similar. Importantly, more iRD patients than healthy controls without a history of COVID-19 reported symptoms that are also observed in long-COVID; this could in part also be explained by clinical manifestations of underlying rheumatic diseases. Based on these findings, the authors concluded that people with iRD are not more susceptible to long-COVID than those in the general population. In a session, COVID 19: A pandemic with a long tail, rbo and colleagues shared new data from Nor-vaC a prospective cohort study that includes immune-mediated inflammatory disease (IMID) patients on immunosuppressive therapies.1 The group examined whether post-vaccination anti-Spike antibody levels were predictive of breakthrough infection and the clinical outcome of COVID-19. To do this, they used data from 1,051 patients who provided post-vaccination samples and responded to follow-up questionnaires after three vaccine doses. Immunosuppressive medication included tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, methotrexate, interleukin inhibitors, janus kinase inhibitors, vedolizumab, and other medication. Hospital records, the Norwegian Patient Registry, and the Norwegian Death Cause Registry provided information on hospital admissions and cause of death. Results showed that while half of patients reported COVID-19 few had life-threatening illness. Patients with the highest post-vaccination anti-Spike levels had a lower risk of COVID-19 infection, supporting the role of repeated vaccination in IMID patients on immunosuppressive therapies. The presence of comorbidities or ulcerative colitis increased the risk of breakthrough infections. These results underline the good prognosis for Omicron infections in vaccinated IMID patients. Though it is possible that patients who knew they had low anti-Spike levels may have shielded during periods of high transmission, the absence of severe infections and deaths in this large cohort indicates that low antibody levels did not greatly increase risk of severe COVID-19. Finally, Andreoli and colleagues report on the safety of COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy and breastfeeding in women with autoimmune diseases, using data from 9,201 participants in the COVAD study. This international study in partnership with patient support groups focused on answering meaningful questions and addressing gaps in the literature about the uptake of COVID-19 vaccination in people living with autoimmune diseases. Overall, 40 pregnant and 52 breastfeeding patients were identified, with vaccination rates of 100% and 96.2%, respectively. Adverse events of all severities were reported significantly more frequently by pregnant than non-pregnant patients, but there was no difference in comparison with pregnant healthy controls. There was also no difference observed between breastfeeding patients and healthy controls. Post-vaccination disease flares were reported by 17.5% of pregnant and 20% of breastfeeding patients, and by 18% of age- and disease-matched control patients. All disease flares were managed with glucocorticoids, and one in five women required initiation or a change in their immunosuppressive treatment. This study provides the first insights into the safety of COVID-19 vaccination during the antenatal period in women with autoimmune disease. While adverse events were more commonly reported by pregnant patients with autoimmune disease than those breastfeeding, these were no higher than among pregnant healthy controls without an autoimmune disease. These observations are reassuring, and likely to strengthen physician-patient communication and overcome vaccine hesitancy. "The benefits for the mother and fetus by passive immunization are likely to overweigh the potential risks of adverse events and disease flares," said Laura Andreoli from the University of Brescia in Italy. A recent study published in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report explored the differences in rural and urban mpox incidence in the United States (US). Study: Urban and Rural Mpox Incidence Among Persons Aged 1564 Years United States, May 10December 31, 2022. Image Credit: DottedYeti/Shutterstock.com Background The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded more than 29,000 mpox cases between May and December 2022, predominantly among cisgender adult males with recent sexual contact with males. Urban-rural differences in health and diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted infections are well established. The study and findings In the present study, researchers examined the differences in the urban and rural incidence of mpox in the US. Jurisdictional health departments reported data on probable and confirmed cases of mpox. The study took this data from the National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System or a standardized case report form. Urbanicity was defined using the urban-rural classification scheme of the National Center for Health Statistics. The urbanicity levels were large fringe, large central, medium, and small for metropolitan or urban counties and non-core and micropolitan for non-metropolitan or rural counties. Micropolitan and non-core levels were merged into a single rural group due to small case numbers. Mpox incidence by each of these five urbanicity levels was estimated. Analysis was restricted to individuals aged 15-64 because most cases (97.8%) were in this age group and to limit bias due to differential age distribution. Estimates were stratified by gender, race or ethnicity, and month. Risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals were computed between groups. Most patients (71%) were from large central urban counties, and only 1.5% were reported in rural areas. The median age and distribution of cases by age group were comparable across urbanicity levels. Over 95% of cases in large central urban counties and 94.7% in rural areas were among cisgender males. Cisgender females represented 2.3% and 4.6% of mpox cases in large central urban and rural areas, respectively. Notably, the ethnic and racial distribution of mpox was different by urbanicity. Hispanic individuals represented around 34% and 26% in large central and fringe urban counties, respectively, compared to 14.3% in small urban areas and 15.1% in rural areas. There were more cases among White individuals in rural and small urban counties than in other counties. Mpox cases among Black persons ranged between 30% and 40% across large central and fringe urban areas. There were limited mpox cases in other ethnic and racial groups, so the relationship with urbanicity was not estimated. Overall, the incidence of mpox was 13.5 cases per 100,000; however, estimates differed by urbanicity, with the highest in large central urban areas at 30.6 cases per 100,000, followed by large fringe urban, medium urban, small urban, and rural areas. Further, mpox incidence peaked across all urbanicity levels in August and declined afterward. Mpox incidence was 27.2 and 0.7 cases per 100,000 in cisgender males and cisgender females, respectively. The highest rates among cisgender males or females were in large central urban counties; rates were lower in small urban counties. Mpox incidence was higher among cisgender males than in cisgender females across all urbanicity levels, with the highest difference in incidence in large central urban counties and the lowest in rural areas. Moreover, Black individuals had a higher incidence of mpox than White subjects in rural and urban counties, with the highest relative difference in rural areas. Across all urbanicity levels, mpox incidence was higher in Hispanic individuals than in White people and Black people than in Hispanic individuals. Conclusions In sum, most mpox cases were reported in urban areas in the US, particularly in large central urban areas. Moreover, 95% of cases were among cisgender males. The proportions of mpox cases were similar among White, Hispanic, and Black persons in large central urban areas; however, Hispanic and Black individuals had a higher incidence than White persons. By contrast, in rural counties, mpox cases were higher among White and Black individuals. Still, the incidence rates in Black and Hispanic individuals were six- and two-fold more elevated than in White individuals. Overall, efforts to support and sustain mpox surveillance should continue across all urbanicity levels to ensure testing and treatment of all at-risk individuals. The findings revealed racial and ethnic disparities that were higher in relative magnitude in small urban and rural areas but higher in absolute magnitude in urban areas. This highlights the need for implementing equity-based vaccination focused on men who have sex with men (MSM), and gay and bisexual communities in urban areas. This new article publication from Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B, discusses click chemistry extracellular vesicle/peptide/chemokine nanocarriers for treating central nervous system injuries. Central nervous system (CNS) injuries, including stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injury, are essential causes of death and long-term disability and are difficult to cure, mainly due to the limited neuron regeneration and the glial scar formation. Herein, we apply extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by M2 microglia to improve the differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) at the injured site, and simultaneously modify them with the injured vascular targeting peptide (DA7R) and the stem cell recruiting factor (SDF-1) on their surface via copper-free click chemistry to recruit NSCs, inducing their neuronal differentiation, and serving as the nanocarriers at the injured site (Dual-EV). Results prove that the Dual-EV could target human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs), recruit NSCs, and promote the neuronal differentiation of NSCs in vitro. Furthermore, 10 miRNAs are found to be upregulated in Dual-M2-EVs compared to Dual-M0-EVs via bioinformatic analysis, and further NSC differentiation experiment by flow cytometry reveals that among these miRNAs, miR30b-3p, miR-222-3p, miR-129-5p, and miR-155-5p may exert effect of inducing NSC to differentiate into neurons. In vivo experiments show that Dual-EV nanocarriers achieve improved accumulation in the ischemic area of stroke model mice, potentiate NSCs recruitment, and increase neurogenesis. This work provides new insights for the treatment of neuronal regeneration after CNS injuries as well as endogenous stem cells, and the click chemistry EV/peptide/chemokine and related nanocarriers for improving human health. The leading carrier in India Vistara is all set to kickstart its flight operation in Agartala and Bengaluru. While confirming the news, one of the officials from the Vistara said the service will start from August 1. Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport director K.C. Meena also confirmed the news, and told the media that Vistara is scheduled to operate a flight on the Agartala-Bengaluru route on above mentioned date. He said the direct flight will arrive at Agartala Airport directly from Bengaluru, and the same one will provide the facility to the flyer in the return journey from Agartala via Guwahati. The decision will provide a great benefit to all the flyers on the dedicated routes, K.C. Meena added. He also informed that SpieceJet is prepared to begin service between Agartala and Chittagong in Bangladesh, but the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has not yet responded with the green signal to the immigration centre. He said by mid-June, all relevant protocols will get cleared from the Centre. International flight service would begin as soon as the procedure is finished, KC Meena concluded. Tripura CMs Special Request to Jyotiraditya Scindia on flights top videos Earlier, Tripura CM Manik Saha also had asked the Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia to launch more flights on the route. Meanwhile, only Akasa and Indigo operate flights on the Agartala-Bengaluru route. Amid this, four airlines fly 3436 times each day from Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport, which carries somewhere around 4,500 to 5,000 passengers daily. The Odisha Board Higher Secondary Examinations 2023 for the Arts, Science, Commerce, and Vocational Streams were administered by the Council of Higher Secondary Education (CHSE) from March 1 to April 5, 2023. Now that the exam evaluation process is over, a formal confirmation of the results announcement time and date has been made. The Odisha Class 12 exam result 2023 will be declared today, May 31 at 11 AM. CHSE Odisha Board Class 12 Result 2023 Live Updates To check the Odisha Exam Result 2023, candidates can use the link available on the official website, chseodisha.nic.in. Students must enter their Class 12 roll number in the CHSE Odisha Class 12 result link on the website to view their results. CHSE Odisha Board Class 12 Result 2023: How to Check Step 1: Go to the official website of CHSE Odisha at www.orissaresults.nic.in or visit www.results.shiksha Step 2: Click on the +2 or 12th result 2023 link and choose your stream (Arts, Science, Commerce, or Vocational). Step 3: Enter your Roll Number. Click on the GET RESULT button. Step 4: Your Odisha Class 12th Result 2023 will be displayed immediately, showing your marks for each subject (theory & practical) and your final result. Step 5: Its recommended to take a printout of your result for future reference as the original marksheet will be issued by CHSE Odisha later. CHSE Odisha Board Class 12 Result 2023: How to Check Via SMS Students may also get their CHSE Odisha +2 result 2023 through SMS by texting RESULT FOR12 ROLL NUMBER to 56263. You will receive your result as a text message on your phone. CHSE Odisha Board Class 12 Result 2023: How to Check Via DigiLocker Step 1: Navigate to the DigiLocker website (digilocker.gov.in) or download the app. Step 2: Click the Register for DigiLocker option. Step 3: Provide a valid mobile number. Enter the OTP that was delivered to your registered mobile phone. Step 4: Create a username and password. Step 5: Enter your Aadhar number and choose the Odisha board. Step 6: Sign in and view your results. You can also download the result for future reference. CHSE Odisha Board Class 12 Result 2023: Details To Check The Odisha CHSE Result 2023 will contain certain particulars which are listed below. Students should carefully examine the details provided and inform the school administration if they find any mistakes or inaccuracies. - Students name - Roll number - Fathers name - Mothers name - Date of birth - School name - Subject names - Subject-wise marks obtained - Total marks obtained top videos - Qualifying status - Remarks The International Baccalaureate (IB) - Festival of Hope a global youth initiative bringing together diverse voices and experiences from across the world was organised in Mumbai on Wednesday under the theme How Technology Promotes Diversity, Inclusion and Equity to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and determination of youth. In a grand display of unity and optimism, the event took place at the prestigious Dhirubhai Ambani International School in Mumbai. The event brought together esteemed dignitaries from the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), pan-India IB associates, educators, school principals, alumni, and students from across the country, to celebrate the power of hope and the transformative potential of technology. The event was graced by distinguished guests who shared their expertise and views. The festival drew 56 schools and over 250 attendees from all over India, all eager to participate in the interactive talks and engaging activities. Twenty interactive presentations and impactful exhibitions were featured, illustrating how technology can revolutionise the teaching and learning experience, and inspiring the students to pursue new opportunities and make a difference. Education holds the key to transforming lives, breaking barriers, and shaping a brighter future for all. In education, technology is a key enabler to make learning more accessible, exciting and enjoyable. Technology has permeated every aspect of our existence and holds incredible power to shape a brighter future for all in promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity, said Isha Ambani Piramal, executive director, Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, and Director, Reliance Jio Infocomm, in her keynote address. In todays digital age, giving wings to hope is technology, she said. It is an honour for Dhirubhai Ambani International School to host the Festival of Hope. Hope is a powerful thing. It is an instrument of change. The first step to a new reality, a brighter tomorrow, she added. The event was followed by an educators meet with the director-general (DG) IB Olli-Pekka Heinonen, which will be attended by 108 educators from across the globe. The Festival of Hope started with the vision to support impactful ideas and conversations that translate to positive action. The exhibits by the students in New Delhi and Mumbai have proven to be powerful testimonials of this vision. We at International Baccalaureate believe in facilitating high quality education for a better and more peaceful world, said Heinonen while addressing the gathering. He further said IBs partnerships with Delhi Board of Secondary Education (DBSE) and Haryana School Education Board (HSEB) will help deliver high-quality education in state-run schools. We are also expecting a 31 per cent increase in the implementation of our programmes across India as we keep empowering learners to thrive and make a difference. What we have experienced over the last few days was truly phenomenal and has strengthened our conviction in the potential of the students, and in the IB curriculum, he added. top videos The IB leadership attending the event includes Oli Pekka Heinonen; Mathew Costelo, chief business development officer; Timothy Logan, festivals project co-lead; Jennifer Olivia Bahrami, global head of communication and marketing; Mahesh Balakrisnan, development and recognition manager, India, and Nepal-IB; and Nicole Bien, chief academic officer. Abhimanyu Basu, Dean and CEO, DAIS, said the festival is an initiative towards guiding all stakeholders to achieve the IB Learner Profile with focus on developing knowledgeable and caring young people. We hope that the spirit of hope and positivity that we have witnessed here today seeps into our lives and makes a difference in our communities, said Basu. The Gujarat Board 12th Arts and Commerce results for the class of 2023 will be announced by the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB) at 8 AM today. On the official website gseb.org, students who took the Arts and Commerce stream exams between March 14 and March 29 can view their results. GSEB HSC 12th Arts Commerce Result 2023 Live Updates Candidates must enter their roll number, date of birth, and other details on the result portal in order to download the state 12th Board Arts and Commerce results. Students must have their admit cards handy so they can check their results to ensure the accurate submission of information. GSEB Gujarat 12th Arts, Commerce Results 2023: How To Check Step 1: Visit the official website of GSHSEB, gseb.org. Step 2: Locate and click on the Gujarat Board Inter Result 2023" link on the homepage. Step 3: Fill in the necessary login details, such as your roll number, in the provided fields. Step 4: Look for the latest notification column and select the link titled GSEB 12th Result 2023" specifically for Arts and Commerce streams. Step 5: You will be redirected to the login page specifically for the GSEB 12th Arts & Commerce Result 2023. Step 6: Enter your roll number and click the Go" button to retrieve your results. Step 7: The Gujarat Board Inter Arts Result 2023 will be displayed on your screen. Step 8: Take a printout of your GSEB 12th Arts & Commerce results for your future reference. GSEB Gujarat 12th Arts, Commerce Results 2023: How To Check Via SMS Candidates may access their GSHSEB HSC Arts/Commerce stream result 2023 through SMS by messaging GJ12SSeat_Number to 58888111. GSEB Gujarat 12th Arts, Commerce Results 2023: How To Check Via DigiLocker Step 1: Go to the DigiLocker App or official website at digilocker.gov.in. Step 2: Select the Register for DigiLocker link. Step 3: Enter a valid mobile number and press the Continue button. Step 4: An OTP will be provided to your registered mobile number; use this OTP to validate your phone number. Step 5: To sign up, enter your username and password. Save the username and password for future logins. Step 6: Enter your 12-digit Aadhar card number. Step 7: Select one of the registration choices. Step 8: To save your documents in DigiLocker, sign in using your registered username and password. Step 9: Navigate to the Gujarat Board results page. Step 10: Fill in the necessary information. top videos Step 11: The Gujarat Board Class 12 Arts/ Commerce result will be displayed. Students must double-check every detail on the mark sheet, including their name, parents names, score, subject names, and application number, after getting their GSHSEB class 12 arts and commerce stream result. Students are urged to contact the Gujarat board at the earliest if there is any discrepancy. Check via sms To check their GSHSEB class or HSC science stream results 2023 via SMS, candidates may Type GJ12SSeat_Number and send this to SMS to 58888111. Via WhatsApp 1. Save the contact number 6357300971 on your smartphone with the name GSEB contact or any preferred name. 2. Open the WhatsApp application on your smartphone. 3. Locate the chat box for the GSEB contact that you saved. 4. Type your board seat number in the chat box and send the message. 5. Shortly after sending the message, your GSEB 12th Result 2023 mark sheet will appear on the screen. As a part of revising National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) textbooks, the council has removed the reference of Khalistan in the class 12th political science book. The lines from the chapter 7 Regional Aspirations of the class 12th political science book which informs students about a separate Sikh nation referring to the creation of Khalistan have been dropped by the council. A paragraph on former Prime Minister Indira Gandhis assassination remains part of the political science textbook. The decision to proceed was made after hearing from several parties, especially after the Ministry of Education received a letter from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee. The letter made reference to removing allegedly offensive material that maligned the Sri Anandpur Sahib Resolution and was directed at the Sikh community. The resolution was adopted in 1973 at Anandpur Sahib in Punjab by a group of Akalis (a group involved in gurdwara reform) who had started to call for political autonomy for the area by redefining the relationship between the Centre and the State. top videos Sanjay Kumar, Secretary (School Education), Ministry of Education, stated that while the print versions of the rationalised books are currently available and may not reflect the change, the digital soft copy of the Class 12 textbook has been uploaded on the NCERT website with the required adjustments. The Shiromani Akali Dal approved the Anandpur Sahib resolution in 1973. The partys adherence to the Sikh faith was reaffirmed in the resolution, which also called for increased autonomy for Punjab. Additionally, it sought that Chandigarh be transferred to Punjab and that Punjabi be recognised as a second language in adjacent states. The main source of contention was the omission of certain of these contentious deletions from the notifications of the modifications made as part of the rationalisation effort. This sparked claims of a covert attempt to remove certain passages. A few months after NCERT removed the mention of the 2022 racial unrest from two class 12 textbooks, the passages referencing the Gujarat riots were also removed from the sociology textbook for classes 11 and 12. Even though Sidharth Shukla is no more among us, the late actor often rules headlines. His fans remember him on numerous occasions. However, on Wednesday, Shuklas fans were left furious an old video of late actors lookalike resurfaced on social media. In the viral clip, Sidharths lookalike was seen imitating late actor with one of his Bigg Boss 13 dialoges. He sported a black shirt and was seen trying to copy Shuklas style. However, the video left Sidharth Shuklas fans furious and disappointed. Several users reacted to the clip and urged the lookalike to stop this nonsense. Kuch bhi.nowhere near Sid.stop showing s**t content," one of the fans wrote. Please sidharth was unique nobody can replace him," another user shared. One of the fans simply wrote, bakwaas (useless). Siddharth shukla ke bigg boss ke dialogue bol ke koi Siddharth shukla nahi ban jata," one of the comments read. Watch the video video here: Sidharth Shukla passed away in the wee hours of September 2, 2021, in Mumbai. He was the winner of Bigg Boss 13. In February this year, Sidharths fans celebrated 3 years of his historic victory. In March this year, Asim Riaz, who was the first runner-up of Salman Khans reality show, claimed Shuklas Bigg Boss 13 win was rigged. Mere dauran unhone kya kiya just because they didnt want to make me win they declared aaj hi hum online voting khol denge. 15 minute ke dauran jeetana hai jeetao jisko (The Bigg Boss makers just did not want me to win, they opened voting in a new way just so Sidharth could win). Come on man, just say you dont want to make me win. You made it so obvious that we had to believe that you did it.. whatever. But I was like okay," he said as quoted by Hindustan Times. Three men and a woman from a family were killed when their car hit a tree after a tyre burst and then caught fire in Madhya Pradeshs Harda district on Wednesday, a police official said. The accident took place near Nausar village at around 7 am when the victims were returning to their village Varkala from Deepgaon after taking part in a wedding function, Timarni police station in-charge Sushil Patel said. One of the car tyres burst following which the vehicle hit a tree and caught fire. The flames engulfed the car and its occupants got trapped inside the vehicle and died, he said. Soon after being alerted, the police reached the spot to rescue the victims, but in vain, he said. The deceased were identified as Akhilesh Kushwaha, Raksh Kushwaha, Shivani Kushwaha and Adarsh Choudhary, but their exact age was yet to be ascertained, the official said. top videos An investigation was on into the incident, he added. AAJ KA PANCHANG, MAY 31, 2023: This Wednesday the Hindus will observe the Ekadashi and Dwadashi Tithi of the Shukla Paksha. According to Drik Panchang, Hindus will celebrate their three religious festivals namely, Gayatri Jayanti, Nirjala Ekadashi, and Ramalakshmana Dwadashi on this day. By grasping the importance of Tithis, along with their favourable and unfavourable periods, individuals can effectively maneuver through challenges coming their way during ceremonial practices and acquire a valuable understanding of the possible outcomes for the day. SUNRISE, SUNSET, MOONRISE, AND MOONSET ON MAY 31 To optimize your daily schedule and outdoor endeavors, its essential to monitor the timing of sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset. On May 24, the anticipated sunrise will be at 5:24 AM, followed by the sunset at 7:14 PM. Additionally, the moonrise is projected for 3:29 AM, with the moonset expected at 3:09 PM on June 1. Having this information at hand enables you to effectively plan your activities, maximizing your use of daylight and moonlit hours. TITHI, NAKSHATRA, AND RASHI DETAILS FOR MAY 31 The Ekadashi Tithi is expected to remain in effect until 1:45 PM on May 31, after which the Dwadashi Tithi will occur. The Hasta Nakshatra will be observed until 6:00 AM, post which the Chitra Nakshatra will begin. Additionally, the moon is predicted to be seen in Kanya Rashi up to 6:30 PM, while the sun is expected to be visible in Vrishabha Rashi. Keep these timings in mind to make the most of your day. SHUBH MUHURAT FOR MAY 31 Make use of the favourable Brahma muhurta, which spans from 4:03 AM to 4:43 AM, or opt for the Vijaya muhurta occurring between 2:37 PM and 3:33 PM for your significant engagements. For evening prayers, the Sayahna Sandhya muhurta between 7:14 PM and 8:15 PM is highly recommended, while the Nishita muhurta from 11:58 PM to 12:39 AM on June 1 is ideal for spiritual practices. The Godhuli muhurta, taking place from 7:12 PM to 7:33 PM, is another opportune time. top videos ASHUBH MUHURAT FOR MAY 31 The inauspicious periods of the day, referred to as ashubh muhurta, are as stated: The Rahu Kalam will take place from 12:19 PM to 2:03 PM. The Gulikai Kalam will be observed between 10:35 AM and 12:19 PM. The Yamaganda muhurta will be active from 7:08 AM to 8:51 AM, and the Baana muhurta will take place during Chora up to 3:16 AM on June 1. During his Manipur visit, Amit Shah met stakeholders from all sides. If sources are to believed, several rounds rounds of meetings with all stakeholders are expected to bring peace. CNN-News18 got the opportunity of an exclusive interview with Imo Singh, MLA and son-in-law of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. CNN-News18 also interviewed former Army officer Lieutenant General LN Singh, both of whom expressed hope for peace after Shahs meeting. Excerpts from the interviews: Imo Singh You All Met with Shah, What Did You Discuss? Firstly, I would like to commend the Honourable Home Minister for dedicating his time to listen to stakeholders from all sides. We hope that things will fall into place. His emphasis on territorial integrity and the unity of Manipur is crucial. What Did You Convey to Him? We have also demanded the restoration of normalcy and emphasized the need for peace. Strict action should be taken against individuals possessing illegal weapons, and hoarding of such arms should be curbed. People attempting to wage war against the state with illegal arms cannot be allowed. What Message did Shah Convey to All of You? Did He Mention Anything About Stopping Security Forces? He assured us that everything will be done to achieve peace, and he is actively working towards that goal. He emphasized that security forces should be allowed to carry out their duties without obstruction. It is important for us all to work together to bring peace to Manipur. Will You Spread This Message to People? Yes, we request everyone to allow security forces unrestricted access so that they can create a conducive environment for peace in the state. Former Army Officer Lieutenant General LN Singh How Was the Meeting with Shah? Yesterday, at around 11 am, we met with Amit Shah as part of the intellectual delegation. We were pleasantly surprised and grateful that Shah is staying here for four days and personally assessing the situation. This sends a strong message that the Union Government is serious about resolving Manipurs problems. He is meeting people from all sides, and we hope peace will be restored soon. Our priority is to bring back peace as soon as possible. What Did You Discuss with Shah? We raised concerns about the presence of illegal weapons with militants and requested immediate action. Shah assured us that things will fall into place, and he plans to return in June. He expressed his commitment to ensuring open highways and smooth operations. He assured us not to worry. He mentioned the possibility of an independent judiciary commission headed by a retired judge, with representatives from all communities. He also emphasized that security forces should not be hindered. There is a silver lining, and we hope peace will return. Why The Protest in Manipur top videos Manipur has been burning weeks in protest that started following stir by tribal groups opposing ST reservation to the dominant Meitei community. Internet was suspended in the state, curfew was clamped after the protests turned violent and even led to dozens of people losing their lives. The protest turned violent after a student organisation, All Tribal Student Union Manipur (ATSUM), organised a tribal solidarity march in the 10 hill districts of the state earlier this month to protest the demand of non-tribal Meiteis for scheduled tribe (ST) status. The rallies were peaceful in nature but during a march in Torbung area of Churachandpur district, an armed mob allegedly attacked people of the Meitei community leading to retaliatory attacks in the valley districts, which escalated the violence throughout the state, as per police. As another monsoon knocks on the doors of Bengaluru, many low-lying areas are likely to face flooding once again in the IT City. One such locality is the Rainbow Drive Layout near Sarjapur Road, which is prone to flooding due to the laxity of municipal body BBMP, say residents. The upmarket neighbourhood was inundated in the previous monsoon following torrential rain. Rainbow Drive Layout is situated between two lakes, Halanayakanahalli (upstream lake) and Saul Kere (downstream) lake. In the absence of a stormwater drain, the gated community was inundated with the overflow of the upstream lake during the rains last year. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has now started building a stormwater drain from the upstream lake along the layout and connecting it to a parallel drain being built at the entrance of the area. While the construction work has begun, a few residents of this gated community who wished to remain anonymous stated that the work is unlikely to be completed soon, thereby once again putting them at risk of inundation. Thats not the end of the woes of the locals. A wall was being built by some of the residents of the gated community at the periphery of the layout to prevent water gushing in immediately during flooding to give them some time to vacate the area. However, others objected to this, stating that the wall might block the natural flow of water and cause waterlogging on the other side of the layout, which would have an impact on the farmlands and villagers there. Following six notices from the BBMP in the previous six months, the construction of the wall has been brought to a halt, but the incomplete structure remains, which could still cause waterlogging and pose a threat to the villagers and farmlands on the other side of Rainbow Drive. top videos The locality was flooded four times in the previous year following heavy rains of 90mm in the monsoon season after which the residents had moved to a safer place from the low-lying area. With water rising more than 6 feet, hundreds of people left the neighbourhood and the State Disaster Response Force team had deployed its staff along with boats to help evacuate people. Children in the area were taken to their schools on tractors as it was difficult to drive them on two-wheelers or cars through the knee-deep water. Efforts were made to pump out floodwater from the stormwater drain and clear the roads. Following the civic apathy, the residents had taken to the streets, protesting against the BBMP over its inaction to resolve the issue immediately. Despite multiple requests and letters written to the area MLA and civic authorities, the construction work of the stormwater drain is still progressing at a snails pace, leaving the residents once again at risk of flooding during the imminent monsoon season. The brutal murder of a 16-year-old girl by a 20-year-old youth has sent shockwaves through Delhi. The gruesome incident was captured on camera, with police stating that the perpetrator allegedly stabbed the minor multiple times and crushed her head with a boulder in the Shahbad Dairy area. Sources reveal that Sahil and the victim had been friends for three years, but the deceased had expressed her intention to end the relationship with Sahil. Unfortunately, the accused did not take it well. ALSO READ | Delhi Murder: Psychoanalysis Test On Cards But Teen Shows No Remorse, Say Cops; Video Shows Victim Moments Before Death Subsequently, Sahil was arrested for the heinous murder of the girl from Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh. It is worth noting that there are several individuals involved in this case, each contributing to the overall narrative. Lets Take a Look at All The People Directly or Indirectly Involved in The Case Sakshi: The victim of the brutal murder, who knew the accused for three years and had planned to end their relationship, which triggered Sahil. According to the post-mortem report, her skull was crushed with a boulder after being stabbed 16 times by Sahil in the Shahbad Dairy area. Sahil Sarfaraz: The accused, Sahil, was caught killing the minor, which got recorded on a CCTV. According to the police, the accused was in a relationship with the victim, but they had a dispute on Sunday night, which ultimately led to her murder. Sahil was arrested from hiding at a relatives place in Bulandshahr. Praveen: The victims ex boyfriend Praveen, suspected to be the former boyfriend of the 16-year-old girl, has come under scrutiny as a tattoo bearing his name was found on the victims hand. Sahil informed the police that the girl had been in contact with Praveen again and was attempting to reconcile with him. Praveen, hailing from Jaunpur in Uttar Pradesh and estimated to be in his 20s, has been summoned to Delhi to cooperate in the ongoing investigation. Neetu: Sakshi was headed to her friend Neetus childs birthday party when she was attacked by Sahil. Interestingly, Neetu, who happens to be Sakshis friend, has her husband currently incarcerated in Tihar jail. In the days leading up to Sakshis tragic demise, she had been residing at Neetus residence, making Neetu a significant witness to the events that unfolded between Sahil Khan and Sakshi. top videos Akash: Hours before the murder, Sahil was seen with his friend, Akash, at the crime scene. As a potential witness, this individual holds valuable information that could be vital for the investigation. Jhabru: Jhabru is another friend of Sahil Khan. He lives in the same area as Sahil and Sakshi. Sakshi was close to Jhabru, and Jhabru had reportedly warned Sahil not to harass Sakshi. Jhabrus testimony could be crucial in the case against Sahil. If Jhabru can corroborate Sakshis claims that Sahil was harassing her, it would strengthen the case against Sahil and make it more likely that he will be convicted of murder. Sahil Khan, who stabbed a 16-year-old girl to death in full public view on May 28, showed no remorse during interrogation and told police that he was angered by the indifferent attitude of his teen girlfriend towards him, in front of her friends. The 20-year-old AC technician, who was arrested from Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday, is likely to undergo a psychoanalysis test as per police sources. Footage captured by CCTV cameras in northwest Delhis Shahbad dairy area show that Sahil stabbed Sakshi 22 times and then bashed her head in with a rock. She was found to have 34 injury marks on her body and her skull was smashed. ALSO READ: Delhi Murder: Victims Ex-bf Praveen, Friend Jhabru & Main Accused Sahil | Key Individuals in Shahbad Dairy Case Sahil told police that he used a knife he had bought from Haridwar 10 t0 15 days ago for his own protection. Police said they were verifying all of his claims during the interrogation as he was frequently changing his statement. He told police that he dumped the knife in Rithala after committing the crime, prompting cops to conduct searches in the area. According to police, Sahil seemed to be guilt-free but nervous at times while confessing to killing Sakshi. Police said a day before the incident, a male friend of Sakshis identified as Jhabru, had got into a verbal spat with Sahil and threatened him. The three of them had an argument in which Sakshi said demeaning things to Sahil, police added. In his statement to the police, which is part of the FIR, Sakshis father Janakraj said his daughter knew Sahil and often mentioned his name. She was friends with him for a year. We tried to make her understand that she was young and should focus on her studies. But whenever we told her to stay away from Sahil, she would get upset and go to her friends place, he said. Police further said since Sahil bought the knife days before the incident, it was not unlikely he was planning to kill Sakshi. But, police added, he claimed that he killed her in a fit of rage because she was constantly ignoring him. The statements by him are being verified. Sometimes he says she ignored him which angered him. But he also suspected that Sakshi was getting involved with her former boyfriend," an officer said. The officer said Sakshi was in a relationship with Praveen for three to four years before she fell for Sahil. Sahil has claimed that Sakshi was keen to get back with Praveen since he had a motorcycle, police said. A day before the incident on Saturday, Sakshi warned Sahil to stay away from her. She was with her friend Bhawna and her boyfriend Jhabru at the time. Jhabru, too, threatened to beat Sahil if he came near Sakshi, police said. She also mentioned the name of her friend Neetus husband, a known criminal in the area, to threaten Sahil, they added. Police also said the girl had broken up with Sahil eight days ago. Sakshi and Sahil had been seeing each other since June 2021 but for the last three to four months, she started moving away from him, they said. On the day of the incident, in the afternoon Sahil got drunk and confronted Sakshi in the evening, who was on her way to the birthday party of her friends child. Sahil told police that he had no regrets over killing Sakshi as she refused to mend their relationship and continued to be indifferent towards him. After killing her, Sahil went to a nearby park and sat there for a while. He walked to Rithala metro station, where he claimed to have thrown the knife in nearby bushes. He then took a bus for Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh from the Anand Vihar ISBT, police said. Sahil was arrested from Bulandshahr after a call from his aunt to his father was traced to the location. He was brought to the national capital late on Monday. In a report published by NDTV, a team of psychiatrists will ask questions related to family, friends and lifestyle during Sahis psychological assessment test. Sources were quoted as saying the test might last for about three hours and will help police understand the mental state of the accused. Police said Sahil had no previous crime record. They took the accused to the crime scene in the morning to recreate the incident and retrace his steps after the murder. Former boyfriend Praveen asked to join investigation Police said Praveen, who is also in his 20s, is in UPs Jaunpur and was asked to come to Delhi to join the investigation. Sahil was produced at a Delhi court, which sent him in police remand for two days. Police are also checking Sahils mobile phone and social media accounts to know whether he was in touch with other girls. None of the bystanders made a PCR call and it was a police informer who sent out an alert about the incident following which a team rushed to the spot around 9.30 pm after a 25-minute delay, an official said. Special CP Sanjay Singh in a tweet urged people to call the police when they face such an extraordinary situation. Neither any of the eyewitnesses to the murder of the girl child Sakshi nor anyone in the locality made any PCR call to Delhi Police. An ordinary person facing extraordinary circumstances, seeing a fellow citizen in a life-and-death situation can help. Stay calm and call 112, the officer tweeted. National Commission for Scheduled Castes seeks report from Delhi govt, police The National Commission for Scheduled Castes has sought a report from the Delhi government and the city police over the minor girls killing. The panel in its letter to the Delhi chief secretary, secretary of the department for the welfare of SC/ST/OBC, Delhi government, city police chief, his deputy and the district magistrate sought a detailed report on the matter from them while saying it had taken suo motu cognizance of the incident based on newspaper reports. Whereas suo motu cognizance has been taken by the National Commission for Scheduled Castes on a news item published in a daily newspaper on 29.05.2023 the commission has decided to investigate into the matter in pursuance of the powers conferred upon it under Article 338 of the Constitution of India. You are hereby requested to submit an action-taken report within three days of receipt of this notice," it said. top videos The commission said if it did not receive a reply within the stipulated time, the panel may exercise the powers of civil courts conferred under Article 338 of the Constitution of India and issue summons for your appearance in person or by a representative before the commission". (With PTI inputs) Dismissing the masjid committee plea, the Allahabad High Court on Wednesday upheld a Varanasi courts order on the maintainability of a suit filed by five Hindu women on their right to worship inside the Gyanvapi mosque complex. A lawyer representing the Hindu side expressed satisfaction at the outcome and said the day was not far when a grand Shiva temple will be constructed in place of the present structure. I hope that the day is not far when we will construct a grand Shiv temple there and the present structure will be removed," said Hari Shankar Jain, an advocate representing the Hindu side in Gyanvapi mosque case. On September 12, 2022, the Varanasi district court had passed the order holding the Hindu suit to be maintainable. Justice JJ Munir of the high court dismissed the mosque management committees revision petition. Another lawyer representing the Hindu side called it a historic verdict". It is a historic verdict. The court clearly has said Anjuman Intezamia Mosque Committees petition is not maintainable and dismissed it," said Vishnu Shankar Jain representing the Hindu side. It is a big win for the Hindu side. We welcome the decision of the court to dismiss Order 7 Rule CPC plea filed by Anjuman Intazamia Mosque Committee, which challenged the maintainability of the suit of five Hindu women worshippers seeking the right to worship inside Gyanvapi mosque," said Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi, a lawyer representing the Hindu side. The five women who had filed the suit marked the verdict by feeding each other and distributing sweets. They expressed happiness and said they were scared that the verdict will not be in their favour. Reacting to the development, the Muslim side said this was not a big win for the Hindu side as a review petition can be filed and they can also approach the Supreme Court. This is not a big win (for the Hindu side) as the court gave a verdict only on the Order 7 Rule CPC plea filed by Anjuman Intezamia Mosque Committee. We can file a review petition and also approach the Supreme Court. The next course of action will be decided upon after reading the order," said Mohammad Tauheed Khan, the advocate representing the Muslim side. The suit filed in August 2021 sought permission for daily worship at Maa Shringar Gauri Sthal in the Gyanvapi complex. The Vishva Hindu Parishad welcomed the HC decision and said it will speed up the court proceedings. The technical objections have been negated. The suit would now proceed on merits and we do see success at the end of the tunnel," VHP national working president Alok Kumar said, welcoming the courts decision. We hope that now the suit will expeditiously proceed towards a final judgement." There are a bunch of other petitions filed in the Gyanvapi mosque case. Another important suit pertains to the restoration of a temple at the site where the mosque now exists. In this suit, petitioners have also challenged a Varanasi court order dated April 8, 2021, directing the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a comprehensive survey of the Gyanvapi mosque complex. top videos This order was challenged before the high court by the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid (AIM), the Gyanvapi management committee and the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board. On September 9, 2021, the HC stayed the Varanasi courts April 8 order. The stay order was extended from time to time during the hearing of the matter. (With PTI inputs) Mumbai police have registered a case against the owner of a Ranchi grooming institute after a model from Bihar accused him of sexual harassment and blackmailing her. In her complaint, the Mumbai-based model said her ordeal started in 2020 when she joined the accused Tanveer Akhtar Mohd Lake Khans modelling agency. The victim, in her complaint to the Mumbai police, said that she is a native of Bhagalpur in Bihar and went to Ranchi in connection with a modelling workshop, which is where she came in contact with the accused who has repeatedly raped her since 2021 and threatened and blackmailed her." When the harassment became unbearable, she moved to Mumbai. However, the accused continued to harass her following which she filed a complaint with Versova Police. She said the accused had also threatened her with dire consequences if she informed anyone. The case was registered at Mumbais Versova police station under sections 376(2)(N), 328,506,504,323 of the IPC and section 67 of the IT Act against Tanveer Akhtar Mohd Lake Khan, based on the models complaint. The model said it was only after watching The Kerala Story that she got motivated to register a complaint against the accused. All this started in the year 2020 when I joined his modelling agency. Earlier he told me that his name is Yash but after 4 months, I got to know that his real name is Tanveer Akhtar. He is sending my pictures to my family members and commenting on my social media posts. He also tried to kill me in Mumbai. After watching the film The Kerala Files, I got motivated to register a complaint against him," the model told News18. Officials said that the case has been transferred to Ranchi Police. The woman said that she wanted to go to Mumbai to pursue her modelling career but the accused started asking her to change religion" and marry him. She said he also exerted pressure to change her name. The woman said the accused had also exerted pressure on her to come to Bangkok for shooting and when she refused threatened to make some pictures viral. The victim said he sent some objectionable photos to her brother and mother and she decided to end her life but was dissuaded from doing so by an acquaintance. The victim said she reluctantly agreed to go to Bangkok where the accused again raped her. The woman said she later came to Mumbai but the accused kept harassing her. The victim said that she had lodged a police complaint earlier but the accused gave an affidavit that he will not harass her and requested her to take back the complaint. In her complaint, the victim said that after she refused to accede to the demands of the accused, he created fake IDs in her name and has been posting objectionable photos and sending objectionable messages to harass her. top videos The victim said in her complaint the accused had also threatened to kill her and her family members. (With ANI Inputs) The Lokayukta sleuths in Karnataka on Wednesday carried out searches at 57 locations simultaneously against 15 government officers who are accused of amassing wealth disproportionate to their known source of income. According to the Karnataka Lokayukta, the raids were carried out at multiple locations in 11 districts. top videos Those raided include Bangalore Electricity Supply Company chief engineer in Bengaluru H J Ramesh, Deputy Director of Factories (Labour department) in Bengaluru T V Narayanappa, Gram Panchayat secretary S D Rangaswamy, Bengaluru civic agency executive engineer Pramod Kumar N G, Mysuru Urban Development Authority Chief Accounts Officer N Muttu, Mysuru city corporation superintending engineer J Mahesh. The office of the Lokyukta said the value of the disproportionate assets will be calculated after the completion of search operation. No internet, struggle for basics, dried up ATM kiosks, and living with curfews in the shadow of fear and uncertainty this is the state of locals amid the clashes between Meiteis and Kukis in Manipur. The state has been hit by ethnic conflict for nearly a month and witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes and firing between militants and security forces on Sunday, after a relative lull for over a fortnight. The death toll from clashes has gone up to 80, officials said. ALSO READ | We Want Peace: News18 at Manipur Ground Zero Ahead of Home Minister Amit Shahs 4-Day Visit As the curfew is lifted for a few hours, the markets of Imphal get crowded. Men and women step out, even as early as 5 am, to stand in long queues outside shops to get groceries. Speaking to News18, Pabitra Dakhali said, We are standing here from 5 am. We can buy things only when the curfew is lifted. Most of the times, by the time it is our turn, the stock gets over. Its high time this problem ended. We need peace and normalcy. Tania Rai, another woman in a queue, said, We cant go to school, college or office. Students are unable to attend classes even for their competitive exams. To make matters worse, the prices keep rising. From essential services such as banks to all business, life in Manipur has come to a standstill. With Union Home Minister Amit Shahs visit, citizens are expecting an end to their woes soon. THE SCENE Every locality News18 visited, the visual was the same deserted roads with houses and windows shut and strong presence of security personnel. The contrast is stark a month ago, the state hosted a beauty pageant and today, the airport is seeing the number of incoming passengers dwindling with each passing day. Ethnic clashes broke out in Manipur after a Tribal Solidarity March was organised in the hill districts on May 3 to protest the Meitei communitys demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Since then, there have been waves of unrest including a latest round of clashes which saw at least five dead on Sunday. The violence was preceded by tension over the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land, which led to a series of smaller agitations. 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 reside in the hill districts. SHAHs VISIT The Home Minister, who landed in the state on May 29, will be in Manipur till June 1. Shah on Tuesday visited Churachandpur, the scene of some of the worst rioting in the recent ethnic conflict which broke out in Manipur earlier this month, to hold talks with Kuki civil society leaders. Among others, Shah who flew down in a helicopter, accompanied by Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Director of the Intelligence Bureau Tapan Kumar Deka, is meeting church leaders as well as intellectuals from the Kuki community to understand their grievances and find ways to bring peace to the northeastern state. Had a meeting with a delegation of leaders from various political parties in Imphal, Manipur. pic.twitter.com/5WtEq48Jvf Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 30, 2023 Earlier in the day, the government announced it will give a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to those who died during the ethnic conflict in Manipur. A member of the family of those who died in the rioting will also be provided a job. Essential items such as petrol, LPG gas, rice and other food products will be made available in large quantities to bring down prices. ALSO READ | Manipur Market Survey: Ima Keithel Pays the Price for Violence, Women Traders Await Normalcy | News18 Ground Report top videos Shah also held consultations with stakeholders on Tuesday, starting with a breakfast meeting with a group of women leaders, as part of his initiative to bring peace to the violence-hit state. Inputs from PTI A controversy erupted in Madhya Pradeshs Damoh district after it was alleged that a private school is forcing students to wear a hijab. The state government ordered a probe into the matter. The allegations were levelled after a poster of Ganga Jamuna Higher Secondary School in Damoh showed girls, including Hindu students, wearing headscarves that looked like hijab. Home Minister Narottam Mishra said that the matter was first investigated by the district education officer. No complaint was received in this regard. In view of the seriousness of the issue, the superintendent of police has been instructed to thoroughly investigate it, he said. Meanwhile, Hindu outfits staged a protest at the district collectors office, alleging that the school is forcing Hindu girl students to wear a hijab. They submitted a memorandum demanding cancellation of the schools registration. Damoh Collector Mayank Agrawal said a probe was conducted earlier about the allegation of religious conversion but it was not found to be true. He also put out a tweet clarifying that the allegation had no substance. Later, the collector said that after the home ministers instructions, a team comprising the tehsildar, district education officer and police officials was being formed to probe the matter. However, school owner Mustaq Khan said that the uniform included the headscarf and nobody was forced to wear it. National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) chairman Priyank Kanoonago said in a tweet that a complaint has been received about a school in Madhya Pradeshs Damoh district forcing Hindu and other non-Muslim girls to wear burqas and hijab in the name of uniform. Cognisance is being taken and instructions are being sent to Damoh collector and superintendent of police for necessary action, he added. Last year, the controversial issue of Muslim girls wearing hijab in educational institutions in Karnataka hit national headlines with a government pre-university college in Udupi banning it inside classrooms. The then BJP government in the state had in an order banned the wearing of hijab inside campuses after the controversy broke out, saying any clothing that would disturb equality, integrity and public law and order will not be allowed. The Karnataka High Court upheld the government order after a few Muslim girl students moved the court. The judgement was then challenged before the Supreme Court, which subsequently delivered a split verdict in October. top videos (With PTI inputs) India, like China, is not far behind in construction of roads and base camps as part of infrastructure development along the Line of Actual Control. The Indian Railways is now planning to extend the Sivok-Rangpo rail link project to the strategically important Nathu La, in order to boost connectivity in the region. The central government is dedicated to increasing connectivity to border areas and is, at present, focused on providing all-weather access to Sikkim. The Sivok-Rangpo rail link project is the first-ever such connection to the northeastern state. The plan to extend this all-important rail link to Nathu La will only be a boon to all-weather connectivity in the border area. It will particularly aid the armed forces by providing them with logistical support in the forward areas. Once the new line is operational, travel time between West Bengals Siliguri and Rangpo is expected to shorten. The route will also remain unaffected by adverse weather conditions and ensure year-round connectivity. The Sivok-Rangpo rail project is in full swing. We have completed more than 50% of the crucial work. The remaining part will be completed within the next year and, by December 2024, this line will be ready, said project director Mohinder Singh. The first phase of the project, covering 44.96 km from Sivok to Rangpo, includes tunnels and bridges on almost 90 percent of the route and is in its final stage. It has 14 tunnels and 23 bridges, and while the constructors have faced challenges in completing the project since 2010, there is significant progress. The first phase covers only 3.52 km of Sikkim but the railways has much more to offer. The second phase will connect the capital city of Gangtok and, the final phase, will be extended to Nathu La. The first phase is under execution. The second phase till Gangtok is being worked upon, and the Northeast Frontier Railway is preparing a detailed project report (DPR) for it. Surveys are being conducted for the third phase till Nathu La, Singh said. top videos Nathu La, a border area with China, is not only a tourist attraction at a height of more than 14,000 feet but also an avalanche-prone area. At present, road connectivity provides a comfortable travel experience for tourists and the forces but all of that depends on favourable weather. According to railway officials, the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) has been employed in the project. The foundation work for critical bridges is complete, including the construction of the tallest pillar measuring 90 m in height. Savitribai Phule, a renowned social reformer from Maharashtra, is being maligned through false posts on websites, according to the NCP. A delegation from the NCP has requested police intervention in the matter concerning two websites, Indic Tales and Hindu Post. The delegation, including Ajit Pawar, Jayant Patil, Chhagan Bhujbal, and Sunil Tatkare, is scheduled to meet Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar at 10 am. Chhagan Bhujbal has already written to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, urging action on the issue. The website claims that Indian women were provided to British soldiers in the cantonment area and implies that the British soldiers, who were separated from their families for years, were sexually satisfied through this arrangement. They allege that Savitribai Phules school came into existence during this time and that the British aided the school. They want to suggest that the girls it is termed surgical rape. These posts are being published on these websites. This is an insult to my mother Savitribai," said Chhagan Bhujbal. The attempt to malign Savitribai Phule is outrageous, painful, and highly condemnable, Bhujbal added. The portal, under the guise of revising history, is actually destroying history. This anti-social tendency must be crushed," he stated, emphasizing that the state government should take the matter seriously and ban the websites. An article titled Why Hindu Female Teachers before Savitribai Phule are not Recognized" was published on Indic Tales on January 4, 2022. The article attributes the information to @Bharadwajspeaks. In fact, Savitribai Phules school was sponsored by British missionaries. Savitribai herself was awarded by the British on November 16, 1852. The British declared Savitribai as the best teacher. We need to ask the question: The British were colonial invaders who had no qualms about destroying India and killing thousands of Indians. What was their agenda in supporting Savitribais project? Why were the British interested in Indian women? The answer will be very surprising. The British treated colonial India as a dumping ground for their men serving as soldiers of the East India Company (and later the crown)," the article stated. In the 1850s, around 100 military cantonments housed them. These soldiers lived far away from their home country and had various needs, including sexual needs. The British used Indian women to fulfill the sexual needs of their soldiers. Many Indian women were forcibly confined in each military cantonment. They were not allowed to leave the premises and were only permitted to associate with British soldiers. They were registered in the cantonment," the article continued along these lines. The other article that the NCP has raised concerns about was posted on Hindupost. top videos Was Savitribai Phule Really the First Female Teacher in Bharat?" read the article on Hindu Post. The article, written on January 5, 2022, without a byline, states, Hotee was a Bengali Hindu widow. She was a scholar of Sanskrit Poetry, Law, Mathematics, and Ayurveda. She established a school in Varanasi for women and was awarded the title Vidyalankar by Kashi Pandits. This was before Savitribai was even born. Who was the first female teacher? Hotee Vidyalankar died 21 years before Savitribai Phule was born." A team of senior wildlife experts has reached Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh to monitor the progress of the governments ambitious wildlife project. It will also mark the first meeting of the Cheetah Project Steering Committee formed after the sudden death of three cubs last week. Led by Dr Rajesh Gopal from Global Tiger Forum, who has been closely associated with Project Tiger for decades, the committee includes 10 other experts from several states, including Rajasthan and Gujarat. With key scientists from Wildlife Institute of India (WII), NTCA, as well as former forest department officers as its members, it will now guide the further course of cheetah translocation to the central state. The visit comes at a time when the state forest department is gearing up to release two more big cats into the wild as 10 others remain in enclosures. Union environment minister Bhupender Yadav is also likely to visit the national park in the coming days. WHATS NEXT FOR PROJECT CHEETAH? Two batches of felines have been flown into India from Namibia and South Africa over the last nine months. Of the total 20, three adult cheetahs two females and one male have died. This was followed by the sudden death of three cubs born to a Namibian cat in March. The committee will get down to assessing the situation on ground and advise the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) on the way ahead. The steering committee will be in force for two years and will hold at least one meeting every month. Some mortality was expected in the first year, reiterates JS Chauhan, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), Bhopal, referring to the death of six big cats in the last two months. But we have to look ahead. We are releasing two more cheetahs into the wild. We have adhered to the Cheetah Action Plan so far and it is up to the committee to suggest if there are any changes that are required now. PLANS FOR ECO-TOURISM? The experts have also been entrusted with the task of discussing the prospects of opening of the cheetah habitat for eco-tourism. This would also bring in some regulations which also need to be discussed. Now, as per the initial plan, the project was expected to also help boost and enhance the livelihood options and living conditions of the local communities in and around the protected area through increased revenues from eco-tourism and associated activities. top videos At present, only a part of the 738 sq km-large national park is open for visitors, while the area where the cheetahs have been kept is out of bounds. Situated in a remote region of the state, it is still bereft of several public facilities. Tourists who visited the national park with a hope of a cheetah sighting have returned disappointed. Residents of the villages situated around the national park still rue lack of livelihood opportunities for them and access to schools for their children. But, as more cheetahs get released in the wild, community participation will become critical for the success of the project, and the conservation of the endangered carnivore. The committee will also look at suggestions on community interface and for their involvement in the activities of the mega project. On May 27, a snakelet was found in the khichdi served to children of government-run Amouna middle school in Fobesganj of Bihars Araria district. As the news spread in the school, the distribution of the food was stopped. However, the students who had already eaten began vomiting and had to be rushed to a hospital. Over a hundred children fell sick after eating the food. On May 28, a dead lizard was found in the mid-day meal (MDM) served to children in Chhatapur block of Supaul district in Middle School Thuthi. At least 48 children fell sick and were admitted to Narpatganj hospital. Amid the rise in such incidents, CNN-News18 spoke to Satish Chandra Jha, the special secretary of education department and Director, MDM, of Bihar, to know the standard operating procedure (SOP) followed to prevent such incidents. The MDM scheme is a school meal programme designed to improve the nutritional standing of school-age children nationwide. The scheme has been renamed as POSHAN Scheme. The program supplies free lunches on working days for children in government primary and upper primary schools, government-aided Anganwadis, Madrassas and Maqtabs. Serving 120 million children in over 1.27 million schools and Education Guarantee Scheme centres, the MDM is the largest-of-its-kind in the world. Edited excerpts: Why is there a rise in such incidents? We have 70,562 schools in Bihar in which 1.08 crore children are beneficiaries of the MDM scheme. The reason for this could be personal enmity and factionalism. The follow-up at the local level remains weak. At some places, it is also due to the mess by the cooks, at times, the NGOs do not follow the SOP. Every district is given an SOP, whether the meal is being served by an NGO or a school education committee. The exclusive job of the BRC and DPM is to see that nutrition is being given to children in the right way and assure everything is done properly. It is the responsibility of officers deployed to make sure such a thing does not occur. How are you going to prevent such incidents in the future? The only way to stop it is the person in-charge should do his duty with full honesty. It is clearly mentioned in the rules that the cook and headmaster should taste the food and it should be served to the children only after half-an-hour. Food should be covered with net, there should be CCTV cameras, cleanliness should be taken care of, and all these things should be done by the NGO. There should be regular scrutiny by state-deployed officers. There are many stages to the process. After the food is prepared, it is brought to the school in vans. It is kept in the school for some time, and then served. Even a little carelessness can lead to such incidents. Broadly speaking, it is a challenge as the number of schools is very high. Still, if everyone fulfills their responsibility properly, these incidents will not happen. top videos What action are you planning now? We have sent the investigation teams to Araria and Supaul. We are getting a thorough investigation done. We assure you that there will no loophole and strict action will be taken against those responsible for this. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray will attend a meeting of key Opposition leaders convened by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in Patna on June 12, Thackerays party leader Sanjay Raut said on Wednesday. Kumar has been meeting Opposition leaders in the country in a bid to unite them to take on the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Speaking to reporters here, Raut said All like-minded parties are coming together and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is taking a lead in this. top videos Uddhav Thackeray will attend the meeting in Patna. Bihar minister and senior JD(U) leader Vijay Kumar Chaudhary on Monday said most parties opposed to the BJP are likely to take part in the extremely important meeting". Earlier this month, Kumar met Thackeray at the latters residence in Mumbai in a bid to strengthen the Opposition unity ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Numerous psychological disorders are uncommon, hard to accept, and rare. The majority of people are familiar with mental problems like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, but other conditions are so uncommon that many psychiatrists may only see a small number of them in their careers. Here, Mark Griffiths of Nottingham Trent University discusses five of the most uncommon and rare syndromes that are now recognised in psychiatry. Seven uncommon psychiatric conditions youve probably never heard of: Fregoli Syndrome: When someone has Fregoli syndrome, they think that different people are really the same person who has simply changed their look. Those who suffer from this syndrome frequently feel as though they are being harassed by spies. Leopoldo Fregoli, an Italian theatre performer renowned for his exceptional capacity to instantly alter his appearance while on stage, is honoured by having his disease bear his name. When someone has Fregoli syndrome, they think that different people are really the same person who has simply changed their look. Fregoli syndrome frequently co-occurs with other mental illnesses such schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Injuries to the brain and the usage of the Parkinsons disease medicine levodopa can both contribute to it. Cotards Syndrome: People who have Cotards syndrome, commonly referred to as walking corpse syndrome," have the misconception that they are dead and do not exist. Others think that there are missing body parts. People with such illnesses think they are dead and dont exist. The French neurologist Jules Cotard, who originally described this illness, is honoured with the syndromes name. Risk factors for this syndrome include schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorder. However, there is an extremely rare side effect of the anti-viral medication acyclovir. Mood stabilisers, electroconvulsive therapy, and antidepressants are typically used to treat the uncommon disorder. Alien Hand Syndrome: One of the strangest neurological illnesses, where the person has the impression that their hands have free will and can act independently. The person feels as though their hand is not their own when they do this. People with alien hand syndrome usually struggle with sensory processing and dissociate from their hands motions. Tumours, seizures, incarceration sickness, and strokes can all contribute to the syndrome. The Ekbom syndrome: A tactile hallucination known as Ekboms syndrome causes its victims to feel crawling objects under their skin and think they are parasitized. People who have Ekboms illness frequently believe they have parasite infestations and feel insects crawling under their skin. The illness was first described by a Swedish neurologist by the name of Karl Ekbom. Alice in Wonderland Syndrome: Todd syndrome, often known as the Alice in Wonderland syndrome, is a condition where a person experiences distortions in their sense of touch, vision, hearing, and time and space. Those who have the syndrome frequently perceive things as smaller than they really are and perceive persons as larger than they really are. Or the converse occurs: individuals seem smaller and items appear bigger than they actually are. Feelings of paranoia could accompany these events. Other Mental Disorders You Might Not be Aware of World No Tobacco Day 2023: There is usually an advertisement on how smoking is bad for your health during commercial breaks or before a movie starts in theatres, which we watch virtually daily on TV. Right, general knowledge? But many continue to smoke and use tobacco, which increases the risk of serious health problems like cancer. What most people probably arent aware of is that smoking not only harms ones lungs and respiratory system, but also adversely affects ones skin. When someone is addicted to smoking and using tobacco, their skin health also takes a hit. World No-Tobacco Day is observed on May 31 every year. It should come as no surprise that this day is observed; its purpose is to raise awareness of the negative impacts of this behaviour and the steps that may be taken to try to stop it. We need food, not cigarettes, is the World Health Organizations (WHO) theme for this year. The 2023 global campaign, it continued, aims to encourage tobacco producers to adopt nutritious, sustainable crops by raising awareness of alternative crop production and marketing prospects. Additionally, it will seek to reveal the tobacco industrys efforts to obstruct initiatives to replace tobacco farming with sustainable crop production, which worsens the world food problem. World No Tobacco Day: What Effects Does It Have on Skin? Consuming tobacco negatively impacts the condition of the skin and might cause other health issues. Dr. R.K. Chopra, Senior Consultant of Chest Medicine, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, discussed smokings harmful consequences on the skin in an exclusive interview with India.com. He stated, Tobacco smoke contains numerous hazardous compounds that are poisonous to skin cells, respiratory tract cells, and almost all other organs of the human body, in addition to nicotine, a highly addictive drug. Nicotine is absorbed by the body through the skin, respiratory system, and intestinal mucosa. Keratinocytes are specialised cells that contribute to critical immunological processes and produce the skin barrier. Nicotine destroys skin blood vessels, causes cell death, and lowers blood flow in these cells. The collagen protein in skin fibroblasts, which is crucial for skin firmness, wound healing, and also modifies the bodys immune response, is also changed by nicotine. ALSO READ: World No Tobacco Day 2023: Quotes and Messages to Help Your Partner Quit Smoking Smoking has numerous negative consequences on the skin and the rest of the body. The negative effects on the look of skin, including as skin ageing, skin pigmentation, alopecia, and skin cancer, may be reversed or greatly diminished by quitting smoking. Smokings 5 Skin Effects The smoking habits of 590 identical twins were highlighted in a 2017 study about smoking and attractiveness by Andrew L. Skinner of the University of Bristol in the UK. The study found that the twin who smoked more could be immediately distinguished, whereas the non-smoking sibling seemed more youthful and luminous. Smoking can therefore have a bad effect on how one looks on the face and seriously harm the health of the skin. Skin-Ageing: Smoking has an impact on the collagen and elastin that maintain the skin tight and plump, causing premature skin ageing. In a review that was published in 2021, Lu Yanget al. discovered that current smokers had lower levels of circulation vitamin D than non-smokers did. The skin barrier is maintained by vitamin D, which also aids in tissue repair. Wrinkles and acne: Smoking is an independent risk factor for the development of wrinkles and skin on the eyelids. The breakdown of skin collagen, which causes the skin to sag, also contributes to this. Skin Pigmentation: As the number of melanocytes in the skin rises, more melanin is produced, which results in pigmentation of the skin. If left untreated for a long time, age marks and black patches may form. Saggy skin: Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that accelerate trans epidermal water loss and the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres, which causes the skin to sag and droop. Pale Skin: Smokers may also have dull, uneven skin that is pale and has a diminished blood flow because of the skins lack of oxygen and nutrients. The natural skin becomes drained as nutrients and antioxidants are lost. ALSO READ: World No Tobacco Day 2023: Tips To Beat Stress And Avoid Tobacco Use Numerous substances are released into our systems when we smoke. In the long run, they complicate health and further impact skin cells, the respiratory system, and other organs. Smoking eventually has an adverse effect on mental health in addition to physical health. Ladakh, the land of high passes and breathtaking landscapes, has long been a favourite among adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. While popular destinations like Leh and Nubra Valley attract a significant number of tourists, there is a hidden gem tucked away in the region that deserves a special mention, Turtuk. Located in the remote corner of Ladakh, Turtuk is a charming village that offers a unique cultural experience and awe-inspiring natural beauty. So lets uncover the hidden treasures of Turtuk and explore why it should be on every travellers bucket list. History Geographically, situated in the Baltistan region, Turtuk finds itself in a unique location where most of the region has been under Pakistani administration, except for the five villages of the Turtuk block that are an integral part of India. This distinctive enclave makes Turtuk the sole place in India inhabited by the Balti people, adding to its cultural allure. Interestingly, Turtuks history took a dramatic turn during the 1971 war when the Indian Army seized control of the village. Moreover, serving as one of the gateways to the majestic Siachen Glacier, Turtuk beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike to embark on unforgettable journeys into the heart of Ladakhs icy wonderland. Local Cuisine No trip to Turtuk is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Balti food is known for its aromatic spices and delectable flavours. Dont miss the opportunity to savour traditional dishes like Skieu (a noodle-based soup), Thukpa (a hearty noodle soup), and Momos. You can also try local apricot-based delicacies like apricot jam, dried apricots, and apricot oil. Cultural Melting Pot The village is primarily inhabited by the Balti people who have their distinct language, food, and clothing. Travellers can immerse themselves in the Balti culture by interacting with the locals, tasting traditional cuisine, and witnessing colourful festivals. Picture-Perfect Landscapes Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Turtuk. The village is nestled amidst lush green fields, towering mountains, and crystal-clear rivers. The picturesque beauty of Turtuk offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and bird watching. Exploring the nearby villages on foot or a bicycle is highly recommended to fully appreciate the natural splendour of the region. Monuments and Historic Sites Turtuk boasts a rich history that is reflected in its numerous monuments and historic sites. One of the must-visit attractions is the Royal Palace of Yabgo Khar, an ancient palace that once served as the residence of the last king of Turtuk. Heres a quick guide to Turtuk The most convenient way to reach Turtuk is by road. One must undertake a scenic journey from Leh, crossing the Khardung La pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. You can hire a taxi from Leh or take a shared cab from the Leh bus stand. The journey is long but incredibly scenic, taking you through picturesque valleys, winding roads, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas. Accommodation Although Turtuk is off the beaten path, there are a few options for accommodation. You can choose from homestays, guesthouses, or campsites, depending on your preference. Staying in a homestay will give you an authentic experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. The prestigious Cannes Film Festival has always been a platform for both cinematic brilliance and sartorial splendour, and this year, the men in attendance took the fashion-forward game to new heights. With their impeccable style and daring fashion choices, these dapper gentlemen proved that they were more than just suited gentlemen - they were true trendsetters, effortlessly turning heads and stealing the spotlight. Bold, confident, and oozing with charisma, the men of Cannes 2023 showcased an extraordinary level of fashion-forwardness. They effortlessly blended classic elegance with contemporary flair, creating stunning ensembles that redefined red-carpet fashion. Their attention to detail was unparalleled as they paid homage to both tradition and innovation, resulting in jaw-dropping looks that left fashion enthusiasts in awe. Lets take a look at some of our favourites- Johnny Depp View this post on Instagram A post shared by Greg Williams (@gregwilliamsphotography) Johnny Depp made a triumphant return to the red carpet, exuding timeless elegance in a captivating Dior ensemble. The legendary actor commanded attention in a custom-made double-breasted tuxedo, crafted from luxurious black wool and mohair. The ensemble was flawlessly complemented by a white cotton wing-tip collar shirt adorned with exquisite plastron and jewellery buttons. Enhancing the ensembles sophistication were a black wool and mohair vest and a pristine white silk pocket square. Completing the look were platform patent leather oxfords, adding an edgy touch to Depps resplendent appearance. Leonardo DiCaprio View this post on Instagram A post shared by Festival de Cannes (@festivaldecannes) The red carpet also witnessed the charismatic presence of Leonardo DiCaprio, accompanied by the esteemed duo of Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro. Embracing timeless elegance, DiCaprio donned a dashing single-breasted tuxedo by the renowned British label, Alexander McQueen, exuding sophistication and refinement. His ensemble was flawlessly accentuated by a perfectly tied bowtie, while his signature slicked-back hair, adorned with a subtle wave, added a touch of effortless charm to his captivating appearance. Ethan Hawke View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ethan Hawke (@ethanhawke) Ethan Hawke took a bold fashion leap by embracing doubled-up stripes with unparalleled panache. His masterful play with contrasting colours left us in awe, as the striking blue shirt beautifully harmonized with the beige overalls. The ensemble exuded a harmonious balance of sophistication and casual flair, showcasing Hawkes impeccable style sensibility. His sartorial choices were a testament to his fearless experimentation and innate ability to effortlessly pull off daring fashion statements. Vijay Varma View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vijay Varma (@itsvijayvarma) Vijay Varma never fails to mesmerize with his daring sartorial choices. Once again, he astounded onlookers by pushing the boundaries and embracing experimentation at the International Film Festival. Draped in an exquisite creation by the visionary designer, Anamika Khanna, Vijay elevated the fashion bar to unprecedented heights. Intricate prints gracefully adorned the sides of his trousers, injecting a delightful burst of visual intrigue, while the pristine white fabric served as a captivating canvas. Manu Rios View this post on Instagram A post shared by Manu Rios (@manurios) Gracing the premiere of Strange Way Of Life," the charismatic Spanish actor, Manu Rios, effortlessly commanded attention in a mesmerizing ensemble by Saint Laurent, accompanied by exquisite Cartier adornments. Embracing a timeless black-and-white palette, he paired high-waisted black pants with a stunning white satin blouse, artfully draped around the waist. A dazzling diamond neckpiece from Cartier added an enchanting touch of sparkle to his impeccable red carpet look. His impeccably styled messy wet tresses added a touch of effortless allure, completing the ensemble with flawless finesse. Rahul Bhat View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rahul Bhat (@itsrahulbhat) Rahuls red carpet appearance was a meticulously tailored masterpiece, custom-designed with his character, Kennedy, in mind. Prashant Sawant, the visionary costume designer, drew inspiration from the profound philosophy and artwork of Belgian artist Rene Magritte to craft the looks of Kennedy and other characters in the film. Thus, the vision was realized as Rahul graced the Cannes red carpet in a resplendent black tuxedo, reminiscent of the iconic figures ubiquitous in Magrittes mesmerizing works of art. Which look is your favourite? Gampola, a hidden gem in Sri Lanka, may not be as well-known as other cities, but it offers a delightful surprise to tourists. This small sleepy town houses stunning beauty and a range of unique attractions. Whether youre seeking relaxation or adventure, Gampola has something to offer. From exploring captivating places to engaging in exciting activities, the city promises an unforgettable experience. If you are unsure whether to include Gampola in your Sri Lanka itinerary, this list of places will convince you that its well worth a visit- South India offers an array of exciting vacation opportunities, from stunning beaches to lush plantations, gushing waterfalls to lively temples, exhilarating activities to peaceful backwater excursions. Here is a comprehensive list of the top 20 locations to visit in South India if you intend to travel to this region of the nation. These locations should be at the top of your bucket list because they are nothing short of travellers fantasies. Look at this! 1. Alleppey Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, especially in the winter. It is known as the Venice of the East. It is nothing short of a marvel, nestled within lush surroundings. As you visit this stunning location in South India, Alleppey, youll notice a striking resemblance to Venice. November through February is the best season to travel to Alleppey. How to travel to Alleppey: Cochin International Airport, which is 78 kilometres from the location, and Alleppey Railway Station, which is 4 kilometres from the destination, are the closest airfield and railhead, respectively. 2. Coorg In the state of Karnataka, Coorg is arguably one of the most well-liked tourist spots. Coorg draws tourists from India and other countries because of its coffee and tea plantations, gushing rivers, peaceful meadows, overflowing lakes, and stunning waterfalls. There are several places to stay in Coorg, ranging from luxurious hotels to backpacker hostels. October through March is the ideal season to explore Coorg. How to travel to Coorg: The closest airport to Coorg is Mangalore Airport, and the closest railhead to the city is Mysore Railway Station, both of which are 135 and 120 km distant, respectively. 3. Kabini Kabini is renowned for its distinctive experiences and for having one of Indias rarest wildlife reserves. It is one of the best locations in Karnataka to escape the bustle of the city. October through February is the best season to travel to Kabini. How to travel to Kabini: Mysore Airport and Mysore Railway Station are the closest airfield and railhead, respectively, and are located 66 and 70 kilometres from Kabini, respectively. 4. Kodaikanal Kodaikanal, one of Tamil Nadus most beautiful hill towns, is accessible both in the summer and the winter. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India due to the misty hills coated in fog and the chilly temperature. March to May is the best season to visit Kodaikanal. Reaching Kodaikanal: Madurai Airport, 120 kilometres away, and Kodai Road Railway Station, 95 kilometres away, are the closest airfield and railhead, respectively, to Kodaikanal. 5. Wayanad Wayanad, a well-known tourist destination in South India, is known for its unique flora and fauna and is tucked away in and around the lush green forests of the Western Ghats. It is located in Kerala, around 16 kilometres from Sultan Batheyr. October through May is the best season to travel to Wayanad. How to travel to Wayanad: Karipur Airport and Kozhikode Railway Station are the closest airfield and rail hubs, respectively, and are each 100 and 110 km apart from Kodaikanal. 6. Agumbe The Agumbe rainforest, the first of its kind, is one of the top tourist destinations in South India. This evergreen forest is a haven for those who love the outdoors and is home to a diverse range of biomass. You can also pursue several waterfalls in the area of Agumbe. October through February is the best season to travel to Agumbe. Getting to Agumbe: Manguluru Airport, which is 95 kilometres away, and Udupi Railway Station, which is 50 kilometres away, are the closest airfield and railhead, respectively, to Agumbe. 7. Ooty Ooty, one of the most well-known hill towns in South India, is yet another must-visit location if youre in this part of the country. Ooty, a stunning visual getaway in the state of Tamil Nadu, is known as the Queen of the Hills." Officially called as Udhakamandalam, it is regarded as South Indias top destination for honeymooners. Ooty is best visited between April and June and September and November. How to get to Ooty: The closest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore Airport, and the closest railhead is Mettupalayam Railway Station, both of which are located respectively 100 and 47 kilometres distant from the city. 8. Kumarakom This Kerala vacation spot is nothing short of a winter wonderland. This location is also a popular honeymoon destination and has a special charm that adds to the trips allure. Kumarakom is a delight for the senses because to its abundance of palm palms, verdant meadows, and a long stretch of backwaters. November through February is the ideal season to travel to Kumarakom. Getting to Kumarakom - The closest airport to Kumarakom is Kochi Airport, and the closest railhead to the city is Kottayam Railway Station, both of which are 45 and 16 km away, respectively. 9. Munnar The three rivers that run through Munnar gave it its name, and it is a beautiful hill station in South India that is nestled in the Kannan Devan Hills in the Devikulam taluk of the Idukki district. Munnar, which is well-known for being a honeymoon destination, is a location that charmed tourists with its stunning beauty and serene atmosphere. December through February is the ideal season to visit Munnar. How to travel to Munnar: The closest airport and train station, respectively, are Cochin International Airport and Kochi Railway Station, both located 125 and 124 kilometres from Munnar, respectively. 10. Thanjavur Thanjavur, a history town in Tamil Nadu, is a sought-after travel destination in South India that offers a variegated perspective of the local religion and architectural wonders. Thanjavur is a centre for learning about Indias rich cultural past because it is home to the Great Living Chola Temples, which are also acknowledged as UNESCO World past Sites. From October to March is the best season to visit Thanjavur. Getting to Thanjavur: The heritage city of Thanjavur is located around 59 kilometres from Tiruchirapalli International Airport, which is also the closest railhead. In India, there are only a limited number of luxury trains, each offering a unique and enchanting way to explore the countrys vibrant destinations. Among these much sought after premium tourist trains is the Deccan Odyssey, which was launched in 2005 as a collaborative effort between the Indian Railways and the Government of Maharashtra. The train was introduced with the purpose of promoting tourism in Maharashtra. The Deccan Odyssey promises a truly indulgent and extravagant experience as it traverses through various captivating destinations in Maharashtra and other parts of India. Onboard the Deccan Odyssey, you will find comfortable bedrooms adorned with elegant furnishings, ensuring a relaxing and rejuvenating journey. One of the most remarkable aspects of the Deccan Odyssey is its dedicated and attentive staff. From the moment you board the train, they strive to provide personalised and impeccable services, catering to your every need. This magnificent train takes travellers on a captivating journey through the state, offering a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. With six distinct journeys, each bearing a unique name, the Deccan Odyssey is indeed a symbol of luxury and elegance. Embarking on a remarkable trip onboard the Deccan Odyssey train, you will have the privilege to discover the captivating tourist attractions of Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka. This extraordinary train journey grants you glimpses of verdant paddy fields, charming villages, picturesque countryside, and awe-inspiring landscapes along the way. The Deccan Odyssey offers six distinct and unforgettable journeys, each with its own unique name, such as: Indian Odyssey Indian Sojourn Maharashtra Splendor Cultural Odyssey Heritage Odyssey Maharashtra Wild Trail Indulging in the richness of the Deccan Odysseys six journeys, you will be treated to a comprehensive package of luxury accommodations, exquisite dining experiences, captivating sightseeing tours, and much more. These extraordinary journeys offer the perfect chance to rekindle the charm and elegance of train travel. As a gem of the Central Railway, this luxury train takes its esteemed guests on an enchanting voyage to a number of captivating destinations. It takes you to mesmerising locations like Jaipur, Kolhapur, Daulatabad, Nasik, Ajanta Caves, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Kutch, where you can enjoy the mystical beauty that surrounds these renowned tourist spots. Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri, Goa, and Pune, each offering its own unique charm. Additionally, the Deccan Odyssey train journey unveils opportunities to explore Mumbai, Agra, Sawai Madhopur, Delhi, Badami, Shirdi, Vadodara, Bijapur, and Ahmedabad, ensuring an enriching and unforgettable travel experience. Embark on an expedition through the majestic and resplendent landscapes of the Western Ghats, Deccan Plateau, and Konkan region. You can witness the wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient temples, historical monuments, and national parks that adorn this magnificent route. The train journey also offers experience of wildlife safaris at Pench National Park, Tadoba National Park, and Gir Forest, encountering diverse flora and fauna along the way. With its seamless blend of cultural heritage and luxurious travel, the Deccan Odyssey Luxury Train journey promises an enthralling and unforgettable experience. India, a country blessed with diverse landscapes, offers paragliding enthusiasts a plethora of breathtaking locations to soar through the skies. From snow-capped mountains to pristine coastal cliffs, here are some of the best destinations in India for an exhilarating paragliding experience that will leave you spellbound. Experienced paragliders often choose and recommend the following list, this summer you can visit these places too. Check them out- Kamshet, Maharashtra: Kamshet, located in the picturesque state of Maharashtra, is another gem for paragliding enthusiasts. Blessed with ideal wind conditions, this region allows pilots to gracefully glide over the Sahyadri mountains and shimmering lakes. The landscape adorned with emerald-green fields and cascading waterfalls adds an enchanting charm to the entire experience, making it a must-visit destination for both seasoned pilots and beginners. Solang Valley, Himachal Pradesh: Solang Valley, near the popular hill station of Manali, offers an extraordinary paragliding experience amidst pristine natural beauty. The valleys verdant meadows, towering peaks, and gushing rivers provide an enchanting backdrop for your flight. Soar high above the valley, marvelling at the breathtaking Himalayan vistas as you feel the wind beneath your wings. The thrill and serenity of paragliding in Solang Valley will leave you in awe. Bir-Billing, Himachal Pradesh: Nestled in the majestic Kangra Valley, Bir-Billing is hailed as the paragliding capital of India. Its lofty peaks and favourable wind conditions make it a paradise for thrill-seekers. As you take off from Billing, the second-highest paragliding launch site in the world, youll be greeted by awe-inspiring vistas of the Dhauladhar range. The adrenaline rush of flying amidst snow-capped mountains is an experience that words fail to capture. Nandi Hills, Karnataka: Just a short drive away from Bengaluru, Nandi Hills is a scenic paradise that offers an unforgettable paragliding experience. As you ascend to the skies, youll witness the beauty of the surrounding hills, dense forests, and sprawling vineyards. The tranquil atmosphere and the gentle breeze make it an ideal spot for leisurely tandem flights, allowing you to savour every moment of this unique adventure. Pavana, Maharashtra: Nestled amidst the stunning Sahyadri Mountains, Pavana is a paragliding destination that promises an exhilarating flight over serene landscapes. The gentle takeoff from the top of the hills and the smooth glide above the pristine Pavana Lake create a sense of tranquillity and freedom. As you float above the azure waters and lush greenery, youll be captivated by the sheer beauty of nature. Whether youre a seasoned flyer or a beginner, the combination of breathtaking landscapes and the adrenaline rush of flight will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. NATIONAL NAIL POLISH DAY 2023: The National Nail Polish Day, celebrated annually on June 1 in the US, is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the beauty and artistry of nail polish. It is a day to appreciate the role of nail polish in personal grooming, self-expression, and fashion. Nail polish has a long history and has been used for centuries to enhance the appearance of nails. It comes in a wide variety of colours, finishes, and styles, allowing individuals to showcase their creativity and personal style. This day also serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the nail care industry, which includes nail artists, nail technicians, and various professionals who work with nail polish. It celebrates their skills, talent, and contributions to the beauty and fashion industry. NATIONAL NAIL POLISH DAY: EASY NAIL ART DESIGNS FOR BEGINNERS NATIONAL NAIL POLISH DAY: CELEBRATION IDEAS Gargi Phule, the Marathi TV-theatre actress and the daughter of late actor Nilu Phule, joined the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Tuesday. Gargi was inducted into the party at the NCP headquarters in Mumbai in the presence of state party president Jayant Patil, Leader of Opposition Ajit Pawar and former state minister Sunil Tatkare among others. Speaking at the event, Gargi shared that she wanted to work with Sharad Pawar for a long time and when she was asked, she immediately accepted the invitation. My father had been deeply rooted in the socialist ideology and I feel that the NCP will do justice to the ideology, Gargi added. Gargi Phule also said that the members of the Pawar family know her family well as they used to have regular interaction with her father. She also said that now she feels that she should contribute something to the party. These are not times when one can sit calmly on the banks. These are times when everyone will have to jump in the stream. The youth feel that some change needs to be brought to politics. I will strive for that, she added. Speaking of her father, the noted Marathi actor Nilu Phule was described as the most accomplished villain in films as well as in theatres. The actor acted in over 130 films in his career of four decades and marked his footprint with his debut film Ek Gav Bara Bhangadi. Apart from his accolades in cinema, the veteran actor was also known for his social activism. He was also said to have a clear and intense political and social consciousness. Nilu Phule also worked hard to promote various traditional art forms. The actor died on July 13, 2009, after battling oesophagus cancer. Coming back to Gargi, she began her career in 1998 with experimental theatre and was trained under Satyadeo Dube. Apart from her rimary work in theatre, she has also been featured in daily soap operas, films and web series over the years. Bollywood diva and VJ Anusha Dandekar is currently living her best life by the beaches in Saint-Tropez, a coastal town on the French Riviera. In the latest video she shared, Anusha can be seen flaunting her killer curves, taking a dip in the sea and lounging by the beach, while sporting a white bikini. She let her blonde hair loose in beachy, cascading waves and wore minimalistic jewellery. She captioned the video: Welcome to my Future Im tyin up my lose ends, Cuttin out the fake friends, Standing by the deep end, Not afraid to jump in, I pick my battles and I never worry bout it coz I always win, Im tyin up my lose ends, This is where it begins Welcome to the future, welcome to my future, Step into my new world, And welcome to my future, Cant stop me now, Something in me woke up, Time for me to show up, I know where Im going, So I keep my focus A few weeks back, Anusha took off to France with her girlfriends. She took to Instagram to share that shes having just the best time in Europe. Sharing a picture of herself, Just a Desi girl, who took a flight to France, Germany came in between, now shopping Italian things and letting the European breeze & sun set her soul free The beginning" She had also shared pictures from the beach showing off her perfect 10 figure. She captioned the photo in French, Un peux de francais fait du bien a ton ame (white heart emoji)". It loosely translates to A little French is good for your soul". Check out the post right here: Anusha has hosted many shows including House of Style, Love School, Dance Crew, Teen Diva for MTV. She was also one of the judges on Indias Next Top Model. RadhaKrishn fame Shivya Pathania was at the receiving end of online trolling for posting pictures in a red bikini from her Maldives vacation. The actress shared snaps on Instagram, posing in front of a wide blue sea. She glammed up with a bold red lip tint and a pair of silver hoop earrings, leaving her curly tresses open. However, some people online criticised the actress choice of outfit and trolled her. Some criticised Shivya for insulting her culture, while others asked her not to post such images on social media. Now, the actress has responded to the negativity she faced, asking, Isnt it normal to wear a bikini on a beach?" Talking to ETimes, Shivya Pathania said that audiences connect with her because of the characters she portrays on screen, but it may not be a true reflection of her personality in real life. Apart from that, I am a girl with a unique style of dressing, and since a young age, I have been fond of dressing up," she said. The actress mentioned that after uploading the pictures in bikini, she received a mixed set of views. Some gave her positive feedback on the look, while others inundated with hate comments." She said, People told me not to wear this and were policing me on what I should wearWhile I respect everyones opinion, I want to reiterate that my attire doesnt define me." Therefore, she had no choice but to put up the message on social media. Shivys added that she was grateful to those who came to her defence. Many people had opposed Shivya Pathanias pictures, citing that her outfit choices were incoherent with the mythological characters she plays on screen. The actress told the portal, I have been equally loved for the mythological characters Ive played and also other charactersfrom shows like Humsafars. Ek Rishta Saajhedari Ka and the web show shoorveer." Shivya is noted for her role in Ram Siya Ke Luv Kush. Shivya had also reacted to flak in an Instagram post, highlighting the trend of bullying women for what they wear. She said that outfit should not be a benchmark to judge a womans character. Since childhood, I have witnessed women being shamed for their choice of clothing and being bullied for the same, & since a very young age, I have been breaking barriers, fighting stereotypes, and to know and tell that the choice of clothing can & will never judge womans character of what aura, substance and values she holds, the actress wrote. Kangana Ranauts love for traditional attires is known to all. She has repeatedly proved that she can slay a saree or a salwar-suit like nobody else can. On Wednesday too, Kangana was snapped by the paparazzi in Mumbai when she looked prettiest in a white kurti and pajami of the same colour. She opted for minimal makeup and flaunted her million-dollar smile while posing for the shutterbugs. Soon after the video was shared online, fans reacted to it and showered love on their favourite actress. While one of the users called Kangana Queen, another fan wrote, Such an icon she is. One of the fans also called her gorgeous. Beautiful inside out," another comment read. Watch the video here: From her debut movie Gangster in in 2006 to Queen, Fashion, Krrish 3, Thalaivii and Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi among others; Kangana Ranaut has come a long way in the showbiz world. The actress recently opened up about her struggling days in the industry and recalled she was humiliated for her height, as she was not tall enough. To become a model in Delhi one needed to be 511-6 ft tall, but I was 57. I used to remain seated throughout the day and was told that I am good for nothing. Then, I started getting catalogue (shoots) and ads where I had to stand behind others. I came to Mumbai for a catalogue shoot of saree. But, its okay, it used to help me with my expenses at that time," she recently told Hindustan Times. Meanwhile, Kangana will be next seen in Emergency. She is playing the lead role of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Kangana is also directing the movie. The film also stars Shreyas Talpade, Anupam Kher, Mahima Chaudhry and Pupul Jayakar among others in key roles. Kangana had earlier clarified that even though Emergency is a political drama, it is not Indira Gandhis biopic. Besides Emergency, Kangana also has Tejas in her pipeline. The 76th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, particularly, came under a lot of scrutiny. Many believe that the film gala became a two-week fashion extravaganza of sorts as celebrities and their style statements on the red carpet took a precedence over the films screened there. Recently, actor and producer Richa Chadha took to social media to share her stance on the films vs fashion debate at Cannes and iterated that one cant take away the fact that it is a film festival at the end of the day. And now, in an exclusive chat with News18, beauty pageant winner and actor Manushi Chhillar, who marked her debut at the Cannes Film Festival this year, addresses the conversation if the need to look ones fashionable best puts a lot of pressure on an actor. I think being a celebrity and who I am, I quite enjoy the whole process, and I find it really fun to put together an outfit, she tells us. While she acknowledges that pressure, she confides that she never had to take any and attributes her team for making it a smooth process. Im sure theres pressure because you obviously want to look your best on an international platform like that but, at the same time, I think I didnt take that pressure. Ive a lovely team that I really trust. Ive been working with them for a while, so for me, everything just beautifully fell into place, states Manushi. For the 26-year-old, the priority was to wear something that bore a reflection of her personality. I dont think I had the pressure to wear the best outfit. I just wanted to wear something that would make me feel like myself. I wanted to wear something like that for my debut and not what people would expect me to wear, she asserts. She goes on to reveal that the Fovari outfit she wore on day one of the festival was decided just moments before she walked the red carpet. The best part about the film festival was this I had come from a long outdoor shoot and didnt have time to put together my outfits and it was five minutes before the red carpet that we decided the outfit I actually ended up wearing, says Manushi. Cannes Film Festival not just gave her the opportunity of representing India by being part of the Indian delegation but also helped grab the attention of the global media. However, this isnt the first time that she got taste of international recognition as she was crowned Miss World in 2017. So, does she plan on using this global attention and trying her hands in Hollywood? In the last two years, the whole world has become a global village and I dont think we have those regional divides that we had earlier when it came to the film industry and I think that is great. So, of course, as an actor I want to seek opportunities that help me grow whether they are here or outside. I think Im trying my hands at getting better at my job and doing work that makes me feel really happy and if in that journey, I get to try my hands at a film industry outside of India, then why not! Manushi remarks. The actor, who will next be seen in Tehran and Operation Valentine, reveals that following her Miss World win, she received offers from Hollywood but had to turn them down. Ive just started out as an actor and theres always been a lot of global exposure thanks to the platform Miss World gave me. Back then also, I remember when I was traveling with them, we used to go to LA a lot and there were always doors that were open and there were opportunities that came in from the West. But I always knew that I wanted to come back home. I really love living in India with my family and I wanted to start from here, says Manushi. Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Priyanka Chopra have one thing in common right now both of them are a part of the Citadel universe. While Priyanka is leading the foundation version of the series, Samantha will be seen in the Indian counter-part. Although details about Samanthas role is still under the wraps, a recent episode of Priyankas Citadel seems to have hinted that Samantha could be playing Priyankas mother in the series. Warning: Citadel Spoilers Ahead: In the fifth episode, Priyankas character Nadia gets a call from someone it is soon revealed that the someone is her father, Rahi Gambhir. As the scene unfolded, it became a lot more clear that Rahi was being played by Varun Dhawan. This moment has opened the floodgate of speculations about Samanthas role in Citadel universe. As reported by Siasat.com, speculations are going wild that Samantha could be playing Priyankas mother in the series. Given the arrangement of events, Citadel India could be set in the late 80s and 90s. The makers are yet to react to these claims. The speculations are well-supported by the fact that Samantha confirmed Citadel India is not a remake of the international version and is just connected to it. Samantha shared the news after a fan reached out to her asking about it. @samantharuthprabhuoffl I have one question is Priyankas Citadel and your Citadel the same story?? Why I am asking is Priyanka dubbed in all Indian languages so if you are doing the same story for Indian audiences then many would have already watched it. I am a bit confused can you clarify if its same or different?? BTW (by the way) happy birthday dear God bless you!!" one of the fans wrote in the comment section. To this, the Shaakuntalam actress clarified that Citadel India is not a remake. it is not a REMAKE!!" she replied. Meanwhile, Varun confirmed to PTI that the team of Citadel India will be headed to Siberia for a leg of the shoot. Sara Ali Khan has given a befitting reply to trolls attacking her visit to Ujjain Mahakal temple. During a recent promotional event for her upcoming movie, Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, Sara slammed the trolls and made it clear that her personal beliefs are her own. I take my work very seriously. I work for people, for you. I would feel bad if you dont like my work but my personal beliefs are my own. I will go to Ajmer Sharif with the same devotion with which I will go to Bangla Sahib or Mahakal. I will continue visiting. People can say whatever they want, I have no problem. You should like the energy of a placeI believe in energy," the actress said as quoted by the news agency ANI. #WATCH | Indore, Madhya Pradesh | When asked about internet trolling after her visit to Mahakal Temple in Ujjain, actress Sara Ali Khan says, "I take my work very seriously. I work for people, for you. I would feel bad if you don't like my work but my personal beliefs are my pic.twitter.com/ffXdurUCDY ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 Earlier today, Sara visited Ujjains Mahakal temple to offer her prayers. She also shared pictures from her visit to the holy place on social media and wrote, Jai Mahakal along with a folded hands emoji. Before Ujjains Mahakal temple, Sara also visited Lucknow with Vicky Kaushal and offered prayers at a Lord Shiva temple. Prior to this, she was also snapped at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah to seek blessings ahead of her films release. Talking about her movie Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, it is produced by Dinesh Vijans Maddock Studios and is directed by Laxman Utekar. The film is for the first time that Sara and Vicky will be sharing the screen. Zara Hatke Zara Bachke is scheduled for release on June 2, 2023. Besides Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, Sara has an interesting lineup of films. She will also be seen in Homi Adajanias Murder Mubarak and Ae Watan Mere Watan. She also has Anurag Basus Metro In Dino with Aditya Roy Kapur in her pipeline. Newly weds, Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani, recently went on a romantic trip to Japan. The couples adorable pictures made waves on social media, leaving their fans swooning. Kiara took to Instagram on Wednesday and shared a romantic snapshot of herself and Sidharth from their trip to Japan. The picture captures them walking hand-in-hand, facing away from the camera. Kiara looked stylish in a beige sweatshirt set, white shoes and a small backpack. Sidharth Malhotra rocked a navy blue tracksuit with white shoes. Kiara captioned it, Take me back already." Now, Sidharth has taken to Instagram to share a picture of himself juggling multiple bags, jokingly mentioning that he is fulfilling his husband duties one bag at a time and tagging Kiara. In another picture, he is captured binging on a wrap, saying that its a quick bite before they get bag" to back, cleverly punning on the word bag." Check out the post here: Kiara and Sidharth fell in love with each other while shooting for their hit film Shershaah. The lovebirds tied the knot on February 7 this year at the Suryagarh Palace in Jaisalmer. Their wedding was an intimate ceremony with only family members and close friends in attendance. However, the couple hosted a mega star-studded reception later in Mumbai. Yesterday, the Satyaprem Ki Katha actress was seen making her way to a dubbing studio in Mumbai on Tuesday evening in her new luxury car. A black Mercedes Maybach, Kiara was seen stepping out of the swanky ride and heading to a dubbing room. On the work front, Kiara will next be seen in SatyaPrem Ki Katha alongside Kartik Aaryan. She also has Game Changer with Ram Charan. Sidharth Malhotra will be seen in Yodha alongside Disha Patani and Raashi Khanna. Sonakshi Sinha has bought a luxurious sea-facing apartment in Mumbai. Dropping glimpses of the new abode on Instagram, the actress shared the struggles of adulting as she sets up the house. The pictures showcased the actress surrounded by new furniture and upholstery as she embarked on a remodelling project for her apartment. Sporting an all-black athleisure ensemble and a white cap, Sonakshi flaunted her balconys expansive view, showcasing the stunning Mumbai skyline and Bandra-Worli sea link. All the furniture and accessories were covered in plastic, as depicted in the photos. The actress can be seen in the images, visibly overwhelmed by the extensive spread around her. In one particular photo, she is captured with her hands on her head, expressing her mix of astonishment and the challenges of the task at hand. The Dahaad star hilariously expressed the challenges of adulting and wrote, Adulting - HARD!!! Head is swirling with plants and pots and lights and mattresses and plates and cushions and chairs and tables, forks and spoons, sinks and bins..AAAARGH!!! Doing up a house is NOT easy!!!" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sonakshi Sinha (@aslisona) Sonakshi Sinhas post garnered reactions from numerous fans and industry colleagues. Actor Saqib Saleem expressed his pride and admiration, commenting, Very proud of you sona! what a lovely space." Huma Qureshi also dropped her reaction, saying, Welcome to the other side." Suhail Nayyar joined in, commenting, Im a proud friend." Workwise, Sonakshi Sinha has been garnering much praise for her powerful performance in Prime Videos web show Dahaad. The series featured the actress playing the role of a female cop out on a mission to find a serial killer while also fighting caste and gender discrimination in society. Dahaad also featured Vijay Varma and Gulshan Devaiah in key roles. The actress has an exciting lineup of films in her kitty. Fans can look forward to her upcoming horror-comedy movie Kakuda. Additionally, Sonakshi is set to appear in two much-awaited films - Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, starring alongside Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff, and Nikita Roy and The Book of Darkness, which features an ensemble cast including Arjun Rampal, Paresh Rawal, and Suhail Nayyar. When Aditya Roy Kapur starrer The Night Manager released in February this year, it left everyone completely impresed. The show gained immense love and appreciation from fans and critics alike. While fans have been eagerly waiting for the second part of the show, the actor has finally announced its release date. On Wednesday, Aditya Roy Kapur took took to his Instagram handle and shared a poster of his show. The poster mentioned that The Night Manager Part 2 will be released on June 30, 2023. Soon after the poster was shared, several fans reacted to it and expressed that they cannot wait for The Night Manager 2 anymore. Thank God. The wait is over," one of the fans wrote. The first season was really good and couldnt wait for the second one," another comment read. Several other users also dropped red heart emojis in the comments section. The Night Manager is an official adaptation of the 2016 thriller show of the same name which was released in the UK. While the remake starred Aditya Roy Kapur, the original show starred Tom Hiddleston in the lead. Besides Aditya, the remake also featured Anil Kapoor, Sobhita Dhulipala and Tillotama Shome in key roles. Directed by Sandeep Modi, The Night Manager also marked Aditya Roy Kapurs OTT debut. I loved the performances in the original. But you have to find your own way, and draw from what is in front of you on the paper because the language, characterisations, and certain situations change (when adapting). So, you draw from that change. When I read the episodes, it became clear that Sandeep had rooted the story in the Indian sub-continent. While you can look at a great performance, you can never (replicate) what someone else has done because the essence is different (in a remake)," Aditya told Mid-Day earlier. Nine years of the Modi government has rid India of its colonial insecurities and finally given us Purna Swaraj (complete independence). Its no coincidence that Modis India is often referred to as Naya Bharat i.e. New India. It is only over the last nine years that we, as a country, have been able to shed the remnants of our colonial past. Though India gained dominion status at the behest of our freedom fighters on the brink of August 15, 1947, for a long, long time, the remnants of colonisation stayed put in our policies, our minds, our confidence and in the soul of our nation. When we begin to think about why, we begin to understand that it is the predominant leadership which governed India the new Congress party split multiple times from its pre-independence self and its owners the Nehru family which kept independent India separated from its flaming and living civilisational roots. It is no secret that the Nehrus, past and present, are a clan of anglophiles. This has been documented several times in primary resources from folks who were closely related to them. They never believed in the idea of a glorious India of the pre-colonised era. Instead, they chose to take India on a path which closely mimicked the British one. Here lies the fundamental problem they are a sect which chose to equate modernism to Western influences when instead, it is the ancient Indian civilisation which was truly the most evolved and advanced in the world a golden spot which was repeatedly conquered by several external forces for the advancement of their own lands. And yet, the post-independence Congress resented the idea of reuniting the pre-colonised Indian civilisation with post-independent India. Out of the 75 years of independence, the Nehru family has directly or indirectly ruled the country for over 55 years. Either they have been in power directly or have placed officers at senior levels in all institutions such that even during the odd years before 2014, when the Congress was not directly in power, institutions would work at their behest. Most policies prescribed during the consecutive reign of the Nehru family and their coterie have had an essence of a lingering colonial hangover. Lets take for instance the licence-permit raj which they ran under the name of socialism. In the truest sense, it was nothing but an instrument to keep businesses and industries servile and extort money from them in exchange for licences and permits which they would dispense as per their wishes. If enough suitcases of cash made it to the Nehru familys or their partys treasure chest, businesses and industries would be spared from strangulating over-regulation. The Nehru family believed, certainly until 2014, and perhaps even today, that they are the rightful rulers of India that the right to rule over the country is theirs and theirs alone. And, by that right, they are free to siphon off as much wealth from India into their coffers in other countries as they please to. Due to this mentality, they havent really gotten around to really forming policies which truly put India on an accelerated path of growth. The idea of maintaining democratic values is foreign to them. Why else would one of their own not only ban the press but also elect a chief justice of their liking, going over the heads of those in line; extend her governments term by force, in the hope of never being thrown out of power. If the family truly believed in democratic values, they would first demonstrate them within party institutions all of which are controlled directly and indirectly by the Nehru clan. It is only after 2014 that India truly saw what it was to be led by an individual who has been loyal to the land and proud. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ignited a flame of self-assurance and confidence, which the country simply didnt have, owing to the constant debilitating rule by the Nehru family. For six decades we were made to feel that we were simply not good enough or wealthy enough to make rapid progress. It is now that we see that it is the political will which was lacking, for advancing us and giving us the rightful place on the world stage. Just over the last nine years, we have gone from 11th ranking economy to becoming the 6th largest, soon projected to become the 3rd largest over the next five years. Several noted intellectuals have often said that it is with wealth that social indicators such as healthcare and education are markedly improved. Until 2014, we were made to believe that we are poor because we are not educated enough, or that our healthcare spend pushes us into poverty. It is now, that we see, that with the rising status of the country, our children have an equal opportunity in education and we have an equal opportunity in availing good healthcare. With wealth creation and stable, sound policies over the last nine years, there has been an influx of businesses and foreign investment in India. In addition to our domestic companies witnessing unprecedented growth, these offer a platter of note-worthy employment opportunities for young Indians. It is only after nine years of the Modi government, that it is now commonplace to see a reverse brain-drain phenomenon, a homecoming of sorts, of the best Indian minds who had left the country for better opportunities abroad. It is only after nine years that an increasing number of global manufacturers want to Make-In-India and an even larger number want to Invest in India. India is truly the bright spot in todays world, as per the International Monetary Fund, and all credit goes to the nine years of the Modi government. We can confidently say that we have broken the shackles of intellectual insecurities, freed ourselves from the colonial hangover and now are well on our way to Purna Swaraj. The writer is a policy and communications strategist. A Nation to Protect: Leading India Through the Covid Crisis is her third book. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not represent the stand of this publication. In a momentous occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Indias new Parliament this Sunday. A historic occasion unfolded in the expansive democracy of India. Regrettably, this witnessed a boycott by a significant number of opposition parties. The recent inauguration of the new Parliament by the Prime Minister has sparked questions from opposition political parties regarding the Presidents absence from the ceremony. In a democracy, it is imperative that the opposition be granted the right to scrutinise the government and pose critical inquiries. The discussion surrounding the methods employed by the central government is therefore a topic of debate. The decision to boycott the inauguration session can be seen as a display of disrespect towards the citizens of India. UNITY AT THE EXPENSE OF DEMOCRACY In a show of solidarity against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the opposition parties sought to display their unity. Looking ahead to 2024, the opposition parties announced plans to join forces and mount a united front against the BJP. This message signals a significant shift in strategy and a renewed determination to fight for their shared values and goals. These messages coming from the opposition camp are crucial. Messaging must not come at the expense of democracy. Parliament is not a party office of any political party, it belongs to every political party. As per the democratic process, it is the solemn duty of every Member of Parliament to serve as a representative of their respective constituencies and uphold the interests of their constituents. It was a notable absence at the recent ceremony, with approximately 156 Members of Parliament from the Lok Sabha and 104 members of the Rajya Sabha failing to attend due to a boycott by nearly 20 political parties. The recent boycott has had a significant impact on the representation of citizens in Indias democracy. With a considerable number of Lok Sabha seats affected, as many as 156 constituencies were unable to exercise their right to representation in the temple of democracy. It is imperative that the opposition come to terms with the fact that, irrespective of their political leanings, they are ultimately accountable to the citizens whom they represent. The primary responsibility of members of parliament is to represent the interests of their constituents. However, the recent boycott by opposition MPs, purportedly aimed at demonstrating unity, has instead revealed their lack of maturity and direction. FIGHT AGAINST BJP SHOULD NOT BECOME HATRED TOWARDS PM As the political climate in India continues to evolve, it is becoming increasingly clear that the opposition must reassess their stance on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The matter of countering the BJP is a subject of politics. In the context of the inauguration of Parliament, it is noteworthy that the Indian Prime Minister serves as the representative of the nations populace. Regardless of ones political beliefs, the Prime Minister of India serves as a leader for all citizens. In the current political climate, it is crucial that personal attacks and animosity not be allowed to take centrestage. The separation of politics and administration is necessary. In a political scenario where the opposition is in favour of constructing a new parliament, while the centre is not, it becomes an insurmountable challenge for the opposition to realise their objective of building the parliament. As per the constitutional mandate, it falls upon the central government to address and meet such demands. While disagreements are inevitable in any political system, it is unwise to turn administrative matters into a battle between Prime Minister Modi and the opposition. Doing so reflects poorly on the political landscape. According to the latest NDTV-CSDS poll, a significant 43% of the populace has expressed their preference for Prime Minister Narendra Modi as their top choice for the position. For the opposition to effectively counter the BJP, it is imperative that they adopt constructive strategies rather than resorting to arbitrary ones. FAILED OPPORTUNITY In politics, there are a multitude of methods to convey a message. The recent Parliament inauguration ceremony saw the opposition parties miss out on a crucial chance to challenge the BJP, as they chose to boycott the event. By attending the ceremony, a more effective strategy could have been employed to corner the BJP. One cant help but wonder if there are more impactful ways to convey their message. Perhaps donning black dresses or tape over their mouths would have made a stronger visual statement in opposition to the government. As any seasoned observer of politics can attest, Parliament is the quintessential forum for the exchange of ideas, the weighing of options, and the contemplation of matters of great import. It is here that the art of debate is honed, where the merits of various proposals are subjected to rigorous scrutiny, and where the collective wisdom of the nation is brought to bear on the issues of the day. In short, Parliament is the very embodiment of the democratic ideal, a place where the voices of the people are heard and their concerns are given due consideration. The opposition parties should recognise the need to reassess their political strategies. USE OF DISCRIMINATORY ANECDOTES ARE WRONG It is unfortunate that several opposition political parties, including the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) led by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, have resorted to citing instances such as the BJPs refusal to invite President Droupadi Murmu to inaugurate the Parliament, owing to their prejudiced stance towards the Scheduled Tribes. Former President Ramnath Kovind, a Dalit, was also the subject of similar anecdotes. Should the opposition believe that such anecdotes will bolster their political stance and elicit empathy from minority groups, they would be mistaken. It is imperative that we refrain from making unfounded allegations against the President of India. The recent decision by the BJP to nominate Droupadi Murmu as their candidate had raised eyebrows among the opposition. Despite her identity as a woman and member of the ST community, the opposition has shown little regard for these factors. Yashwant Sinha, a candidate hailing from a privileged upper-caste background, was fielded by the opposition party. The campaign strategy adopted by the opposition involved targeting Murmu. The electorate is unlikely to benefit from such a brand of hypocritical politics. OPPOSITION MUST LOOK INTO THEIR PAST As we reflect on the current political climate, it is imperative that opposition political parties take a moment to examine their own historical actions towards former presidents, governors, and other constitutional authorities. It is a common occurrence in several opposition-ruled states that the governors are consistently disregarded. The widely publicised clash between former West Bengal Governor, now Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankar and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is common knowledge. In a bold move, the West Bengal government and the ruling political party successfully passed a bill to replace the governor as chancellor of state universities with the Chief Minister. This decision marks a significant shift in the states governance and has raised eyebrows among political circles. Throughout its history, the Congress has been known for its confrontational relationships with the presidents. In a controversial move, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi went to great lengths to secure the presidency for her preferred candidate, VV Giri, over Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy. This divisive decision ultimately caused a rift within the party. Throughout history, there have been numerous instances of disrespect towards the presidents, from Jawaharlal Nehru to Sonia Gandhi. The oppositions decision to boycott the new Parliaments inauguration has been met with criticism. Some argue that this action not only undermines the democratic process in India, but also provides the BJP with ammunition to further their political agenda. As the 2024 general elections loom on the horizon, the opposition needs to recognise the significance of meticulous planning in every facet of their strategy. Today, the BJP will construct a narrative against the opposition, claiming that they are anti-democracy and lack faith in the constitution. The BJPs political opponents are facing a daunting challenge as they struggle to maintain credibility, while espousing policies that are both misguided and contradictory. The crux of the matter regarding opposition unity lies in identifying the core issues that must be contested against the BJP. The author is a columnist and Doctoral Research Scholar in Media and Politics. He tweets @sayantan_gh. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not represent the stand of this publication. With the Narendra Modi government completing nine years and the 2024 Lok Sabha elections on the horizon, there are questions about how India has changed, the various feats, and what challenges remain. Union minister Smriti Irani provided some succinct answers on Wednesday in an exclusive conversation with CNN-News18. Edited excerpts: #Exclusive | 9 Years Of #ModiGovernment: Union Minister @smritiirani on significant achievements on Modi sarkar'There is a rise in Indian education; PPE suits were built in India, we made and exported vaccines during Covid, she says. Listen in#TheRightStand | @AnchorAnandN pic.twitter.com/s84ovU1i75 News18 (@CNNnews18) May 30, 2023 On a day when the numbers read very positively for the women of our country 1,020 women per 1,000 men, thats the data as per the book that has been launched to commemorate 9 years of Modi Sarkarbut for you, what has perhaps been the most significant achievement over the last 9 years, because you have straddled multiple ministries and you have been there right through since 2014? Ive had the greatest privilege of serving under a visionary Prime Minister who understands the needs of my country. That in my country the education policy had not seen revision for four decades speaks of the apathy with which the Congress ruled and governed my country. Today I am very proud that the National Education Policy which comes to the fore after four decades has a special gender inclusion fund, whereby infrastructure for gender-related education activities has been ascertained. I am very proud that as minister of education then, the Prime Minister blessed the first-ever MOOCs platform to be made for our country and SWAYAM today has 1.75 crore students who get low-cost higher education. I am extremely proud that India never had a national ranking framework which it does now, and that is why you see the rankings of higher education institutions in the world see the rise in Indian education. I am extremely proud that as the minister of textiles, I was a first-hand witness to Indias self-sufficiency in the production of PPE suits. Remember, in our country, we kept importing for 70 years at least 50-55 thousand PPE suits a year for the national need. And it was when there was a global lockdown and Covid struck that India discovered its capacity to manufacture PPE kits on our own. We built a capacity of over 1,100 companies in our country, became the 2nd largest exporter in the world in just 3 months with a turnover of over a billion dollars, supplying PPE suits not just for the needs of our nation but across 160 countries. This was only possible because Modi is Prime Minster. That we had the opposition crying wolf and wanting imports of vaccines in our country and the Prime Minister was steadfast and said lets make vaccines in India and lets not stand in international queues for vaccines as India had been habituated under the Gandhi family rule in our country. That we technologically delivered 220 crores doses of vaccines to our citizens and saw Vaccine Maitri help out 160-plus countries with not only vaccines but pharmaceuticals like paracetamol fills many an Indian with pride. That 80 crore Indians have received over 1,121 lakh metric tons of free food grains, which has never happened anywhere in the world, during Covid is something that fills me with pride as part of Prime Minister Modis cabinet. That all of this is being done without raising even a single rupee as taxes against our citizens is something that makes me prouder still. But I think the stories that are told every day are by the 11 crore families that for the first time have a toilet, the 4 crore families that have a roof over their head, 23 crore Ayushman Bharat cards distributed across the country, 4.5 crore Indian citizens who have received medical assistance worth of Rs 5 lakh free from the Government of India. Many such accomplishments and many more to go, but I am grateful that the country has given us the opportunity to serve under Prime Minister Modi. Seva ke 9 saal ke liye main desh ke naagrikon ka aabhaar vyakt karti hun. The next question has three parts. Firstly, 40 academics and educationists have met CM Siddaramaiah, saying scrap the NEP in Karnataka. Secondly, LPG cylinders claimed by the government to have helped women are now beyond the reach of women is the allegation that the opposition makes. Thirdly, a united opposition continues to boycott even the inauguration of the new Parliament. So the government of the day has not been able to get the opposition on board. Firstly, if the opposition parties are saying that they boycott Parliament, please let it be known that they are boycotting the people and not Modi, because its the peoples house, its the peoples Parliament. That the opposition parties today are arrogant enough to even boycott the biggest temple of our democracy speaks volumes about the egos of a particular political family, which has become the fulcrum for the oppositions dreams. Secondly, when you talk about issues such as challenges that the country had to face, I must here say that imagine the country facing a Covid pandemic in the absence of a leader like Prime Minister Modi. One of the greatest examples of how our Prime Minister was resolute in ensuring that the citizens of our country are protected is when a war came to a standstill because Prime Minister Modi said I need to ensure that my citizens are evacuated. What better example of a Prime Ministers resolve to ensure the safety and security of every citizen? Thats why we say Modi hai toh mumkin hai. top videos Insofar as opposition unity goes, one has to explain how can those factions unite that have slaughtered each other politically for political gains. Mamata Bandopadhyay has been accused by many Congress leaders of West Bengal of having attacked and sullied the name of the Congress party. So that TMC, which has bloody hands, especially from attacking Congress workers, can Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, or Smt Vadra truly shake that hand? Nitish ji has consistently called Sonia Gandhi corrupt. Is the hunger for power so divine that Rahul Gandhi will embrace a man who continuously, consistently called his own mother corrupt? Insofar as Nitish Babu himself goes, a person who needs help to stand on his own political feet, today offers support to others, that itself is an oxymoronic situation. The inauguration of Viprahitha Brahmin Sadan at Gopanpally in Telangana by chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao has received harsh criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party. During the inauguration on Wednesday, the CM said that Telangana is the only state in the country to devote a building to the Brahmin community. Speaking to News18, BJP state spokesperson NV Subhash said that KCR remembers caste, religion, and self-esteem building only during elections. He asked the CM why there was a need to bring Brahmins from neighbouring states and not from Telangana for the puja programmes related to the inauguration. During the event, the chief minister said: Many Brahmins are poor. The government felt it is its responsibility to support them. Telangana Brahmin Welfare Parishad was constituted in 2017. We allocated Rs 100 crore funds to Brahman Parishad every year. Various welfare schemes are being implemented with these funds. So far, 780 students have been supported through Vivekananda Scholarship to study abroad." However, the BJP called these measures a political gimmick. KCR believes in divide and rule. He used the name of our former PM PV Narasimha Rao for his selfish gains. Except during the PV Narasimha Rao centenary celebrations, the former PM was not given any importance by the CM. He is going to extend the same treatment to Brahmins too," said Subhash. The BJP leader demanded that KCR should declare the number of promises he has made to the Brahmins so far. He warned that if the chief minister is really sincere about solving the problems of Brahmins, he should solve them immediately, or else the Brahmin community will surely teach him a lesson in the coming polls. Viprahitha Brahmin Sadan was constructed at a cost of Rs 12 crore on a sprawling 9-acre campus. The government has envisioned it as a centre for conducting spiritual, religious, and Vedic activities. This facility provides accommodation for seers, priests, and religious leaders who visit the state. The Kalyana Mandapam serves as a platform for free marriages of poor Brahmins. More such buildings are coming up in Khammam, Madhira, and Bachupally areas. Some of the measures announced for the welfare of Brahmins on Wednesday are: Increasing monthly stipend given to Vedic scholars by the Brahmin Parishad from Rs 2,500 to Rs 5,000. Eligible age for receiving this allowance is reduced from 75 years to 65 years. top videos Presently the Dhoopa Deepa Naivedyam scheme is applicable to 3,645 temples in the state. It will be extended to another 2,796 temples across the state. The Bharat Rashtra Samithi has been reaching out to various castes and social groups as part of its election strategy. Earlier, it had introduced the Dalit Bandhu scheme and named the new secretariat after Dr BR Ambedkar. With pressure mounting on the Congress government in Karnataka to implement the five guarantees as promised to the people ahead of Assembly polls, States Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge on Wednesday said criteria and frameworks are being decided for its implementation. He said the criterion has to be fixed to implement the guarantees, as tax-payers money is involved. In view of the implementation of five guarantee schemes, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is today holding a meeting with all the Ministers of his cabinet and senior officials of the concerned departments at Vidhana Soudha, the seat of state secretariat and legislature in Bengaluru. The decision on implementation of guarantees is likely to be taken at the cabinet meeting on Thursday. Every scheme is based on a criterion, it is your (public) money, tax payers money is involved. We will have to put criteria. Tell me which scheme of the central- Modi government is free?" Kharge asked. Speaking to reporters here, he said, there will be criteria and we will ensure that everyone is benefited. Is it wrong to give priority to BPL (below poverty line), the government is for the poor." How to implement Gruha Jyoti, Gruha Lakshmi, YuvaNidhi the criterion and framework will be decided by today and tomorrow, there is no need to worry," he added. The Congress had promised to implement the guarantees 200 units of free power to all households (Gruha Jyoti), Rs 2,000 monthly assistance to the woman head of every family (Gruha Lakshmi), 10 kg of rice free to every member of a BPL household (Anna Bhagya), Rs 3,000 every month for unemployed graduate youth and Rs 1,500 for unemployed diploma holders (both in the age group of 18-25) (YuvaNidhi), and free travel for women in public transport buses (Shakti), on the very first day of assuming power in the state. There is mounting pressure on the new government from opposition parties and various sections of people from across the state, to fulfill its five guarantees as promised ahead of polls. Opposition BJP and JD(S) have accused the Congress of trying to cheat" voters after coming to power by trying to attach conditions or criterion to the guarantees for their implementation, which were not mentioned ahead of polls. Asked how the government will mobilise resources, the Minister said, we will do it. First of all it is because of the central government and the double engine (BJP at both centre and state) government that was there our financial situation has worsened." top videos Our GST share has not come, there was financial mismanagement during COVID-19, because of this Kannadigas are in debt today, I had raised this issue several times in the Assembly in the past," he said, now that our government has come, the priority will be to give financial stability to the state and its people. After having accorded in-principal approval for the guarantees in the first cabinet meeting on May 20, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had said they would most likely" be implemented after the next Cabinet meeting. He had also said that initial estimates indicate it would cost the exchequer Rs 50,000 crore annually. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack against the Congress during the mega rally in Rajasthans Ajmer district on Wednesday and said that the UPA government operated under a remote control" rule. Hailing the work done by his government at the campaigning marking its nine years in power at the Centre and on the occasion of birth anniversary of Malwa Queen Ahilya Bai Holkar, PM Modi said, Today, on the birth anniversary of Ahilya Bai Holkar, the BJP has completed nine years of governance. These nine years have been dedicated to the welfare of the poor." Attacking the UPA government, PM Modi said the Congress ran the government by remote control. Before 2014, people took to the streets against corruption, major cities were rocked by terror attacks, and the Congress ran the government by remote control," he said. He criticised the Congress, stating, 50 years ago, the Congress guaranteed to eradicate poverty, but they betrayed the poor. Their strategy is to mislead the poor." During the rally, Modi highlighted the impact of wrong policies by the Congress, particularly on small farmers, saying, Small farmers suffered the most due to the wrong policies of the Congress." Praising the efforts of the BJP government as India receives global acclaim, Modi emphasised on the mantra of inclusive development and building trust of his government. Sabka vikas, sabka vishwas has brought about a change in the country," he said. He further attacked the opposition party stating, During the UPA government regime, gas connections were not easily available. Congress only knows how to speak lies, and they continue to do the same." The Prime Minister also accused Congress of betraying" armed forces in the name of One Rank One Pension. Highlighting the implementation of OROP and the provision of arrears to veterans by the BJP government, Modi said, Congress cheated ex-servicemen in the name of One Rank One Pension, but the BJP implemented it and provided Rs 65,000 crore to ex-servicemen in their accounts." Referring to Congress historical guarantees, PM Modi remarked, This guarantee habit of Congress is not new; it is old. Fifty years ago, Congress gave the garibi hatao guarantee to the country. This is Congress partys biggest treachery with the poor. Congress strategy has been to deceive the poor. The people of Rajasthan have suffered due to this." He also accused the party of taking 85 per cent commission per development project. Our country never had a shortage of money for development work. Congress is a party that takes a cut of 85% commission in every project. We were able to do development because we plugged the leakages created by the Congress party," he said. He claimed Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had also accepted the charge. Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi had also accepted that if the Congress government sends 100 paise, 85 paise would go to corruption. Congress is the party that gets 85 per cent commission in every scheme," he added. Regarding the newly inaugurated parliament building in New Delhi, PM Modi criticised the grand old party, stating, India has got a new parliament building. However, the Congress sacrificed even this moment of Indias pride for its selfish opposition. The Congress has insulted the hard work of 60,000 workers and the sentiments and aspirations of the country." The Congress and 20 other parties boycotted the prime ministers inauguration of the new Parliament building on Sunday, claiming that the government had insulted President Droupadi Murmu, a tribal woman, by not inviting her to perform the honors. He offered prayers at the famous Brahma temple in the holy town of Pushkar, nearly 15 km from Ajmer city, before addressing the public rally. According to Ajmer North MLA Vasudev Devnani, BJP workers from 45 assembly and eight Lok Sabha constituencies were mobilized for the rally. These constituencies span across Ajmer, Nagaur, Tonk, Bhilwara, Rajsamand, Jaipur, and Pali districts. In recent weeks, Prime Minister Modi has also visited Rajsamand and Sirohi. top videos In celebration of Modis nine years as prime minister, BJP leaders have conducted press conferences in several states. The upcoming rally by the PM will kickstart a series of party meetings as part of a major outreach campaign. Rajasthan, where the ruling Congress is currently embroiled in a leadership tussle between Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his former deputy Sachin Pilot, will witness elections later this year. Leaders of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Wednesday staged a protest outside the Mumbai police commissioners office demanding action against two websites for alleged objectionable articles on renowned social reformer Savitribai Phule. Senior NCP leaders Ajit Pawar, Jayant Patil, Sunil Tatkare and Chhagan Bhujbal and scores of party workers were among those who participated in the protest. A letter signed by Pawar, Patil and Bhujbal to the Mumbai police commissioner claimed the Indic Tales and Hindu Post websites have posted objectionable articles against Phule, regarded as a pioneer in the field of female education. The letter alleged the act was done with a purpose to incite people. In the Maharashtra of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar, the act of insulting Savitribai Phule is cheap and we strongly protest against it, the letter said. top videos On Monday, Bhujbal wrote a letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, seeking action against a website and an author of an allegedly offensive article on Phule. The portal, in the name of rearranging history is destroying history. This anti-social tendency needs to be crushed," he had said, adding the state government must take the issue seriously and ban the website. The Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre completed nine years in power on Tuesday, celebrations for which will be launched with the prime ministers mega rally in Rajasthan on Wednesday. The BJP will be kickstarting its mass connect" campaign in the state, which is due for elections later in the year. According to reports, Prime Minister Modi will launch the BJPs month-long campaign in Ajmer and visit the Brahma temple in Pushkar before that. The Rajasthan BJP unit tweeted about the visit, welcoming the PM to the state. Modi is scheduled to reach Kishangarh airport at 3 pm and will travel by helicopter from there to Pushkar, where he will offer prayers at the Brahma temple from 3.40 pm to 4 pm. He will then travel by helicopter to a helipad near the rally venue Kayad Vishram Sthali on Jaipur road at 4.45 pm, police sources said. Union ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal and Kailash Chaudhary, and other BJP leaders from Rajasthan will attend the meeting. Ajmer North MLA Vasudev Devnani said BJP workers from 45 assembly and eight Lok Sabha constituencies are being mobilised for the rally. The constituencies fall in the districts of Ajmer, Nagaur, Tonk, Bhilwara, Rajsamand, Jaipur and Pali. Over the past few weeks, Modi had also visited Rajsamand and Sirohi. Party leaders have already held press conferences in several states to mark Modis nine years as prime minister. His rally will flag the beginning of a series of party meetings as part of a major outreach campaign. What is the Maha Jansampark campaign? For the 30-day Maha Jansampark rally from May 31 to June 30, BJP leaders will address 51 rallies across the country while 500 public meetings will be held at the Lok Sabha level with an eye on the general elections next year. Modis rally comes a day after Rajsthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot and his former deputy met the Congress high command in Delhi to find a solution to a leadership tussle, which could become an election issue for the BJP in the coming days. The Congress finds itself in a vulnerable position because of the feud, which has once again trained a spotlight on the infighting in the Rajasthan unit. On completing nine years in power, PM Modi tweeted to say the BJP had strived to uphold the dignity and enhance the livelihoods of Indias poorest". Over the past 9 years, we have strived to uphold the dignity and enhance the livelihoods of India's poorest. Through numerous initiatives we have transformed millions of lives. Our mission continues - to uplift every citizen and fulfill their dreams. #9YearsOfSeva pic.twitter.com/FsydmGoAcf Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 30, 2023 Addressing a press conference, BJPs campaign incharge Tarun Chugh said the party had divided the 543 Lok Sabha constituencies into 144 clusters with three to four seats in each. Party members will connect with over five lakh families around 1,000 in every Lok Sabha constituency across the country." Chugh said two senior party leaders, including ministers, will present the central governments report card on governance and welfare of the poor and underprivileged. They will spend eight days in every cluster and hold different programmes, he added. A total of 288 top BJP leaders and 16 lakh party workers will interact with voters at 10 lakh booths and 144 clusters covering all Lok Sabha seats to deliver the message of achievements in nine years of the partys rule at the Centre. As part of the campaign, party leaders will meet 1,000 eminent families per Lok Sabha segment, and conduct 51 mega rallies across India, along with seminars with teachers, social media influencers and other distinguished citizens," he said. top videos Modi inaugurated the new Parliament building on May 28 amid much fanfare and a boycott by 20 opposition parties. He was sworn as the PM for the first time on May 26, 2014, and on May 30, 2019 for his second term in office. (With PTI inputs) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday lambasted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for Insulting" India on foreign soil" by mocking" the installation of Sengol (sceptre) in the new Parliament. Gandhi, who is on a six-day visit to the US, while addressing the Indian diaspora in San Francisco, took a swipe at the BJP-led Central government and said the inauguration of Sengol in the new Parliament was drama" executed to divert people" from the real issues. Coming down heavily on the Congress Scion, Union Minister Anurag Thakur claimed Rahul Gandhi insults" India during his foreign visits as he cannot digest PM Modi is the Boss." During his foreign visits, Rahul Gandhi insults India. PM Modi met almost 24 PMs and Presidents of the world and held over 50 meetings during his foreign visit recently and when the Australian PM said that PM Modi is the Boss, Rahul Gandhi could not digest this," Thakur told news agency ANI. Slamming Gandhi, BJP spokesperson Shezad Poonawala said the Gandhi family relegated the Sengol to a walking stick of former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Rahul Gandhis family relegated the pious Sengol to a walking stick of Nehru. Now the entitled dynast Rahul mocks (Tamil culture in particular ) Indian culture on foreign soil after attacking Indian institutions by making the most distasteful comments on Sengol installation & the respect paid by PM Modi to it ( Dandvat Pranam was also mocked by Rahul as lying down - Rahul perhaps cares little for the Indian way of showing respect.. )," Poonawala tweeted. Rahul Gandhis family relegated the pious Sengol to a walking stick of NehruNow the entitled dynast Rahul mocks (Tamil culture in particular ) Indian culture on foreign soil after attacking Indian institutions by making most distasteful comments on Sengol installation & the pic.twitter.com/BcsZqvRqfJ Shehzad Jai Hind (@Shehzad_Ind) May 31, 2023 He also took the opportunity to corner the DMK-led government in Tamil Nadu for boycotting the new inaugural ceremony of new Parliament and said, No less than the DMK govt document spoke of Sengol history and relevance but those who love symbols of Gulaami cannot digest this.. in their hatred for BJP they attack Bharatiya symbols, way of life itself !! Does the DMK agree with Rahul on the Sengol installation being called a drama?" BJPs Tamil Nadu Chief K Annamalai also criticised the Congress leaders remark and said to discuss real issues, Rahul Gandhi has to be in the country, if not often, at least once in a while." To discuss real issues, you have to be in the country, if not often, at least once in a while, Thiru @RahulGandhi.You got Jallikattu banned, and now you mock the rituals for the Sceptre done by Saiva Adheenams from TN. What your party cast away as a walking stick is today pic.twitter.com/fDsJumUeow K.Annamalai (@annamalai_k) May 31, 2023 You got Jallikattu banned, and now you mock the rituals for the Sceptre done by Saiva Adheenams from TN. What your party cast away as a walking stick is today reinstated to its rightful place, Thiru Rahul Gandhi," he said in a tweet. What Rahul Gandhi Said Gandhi has taken a swipe at the ruling BJP government, saying it is threatening" the people and misusing" the countrys agencies as he addressed a gathering of the Indian diaspora in US. Speaking at an event in Santa Clara, California on Tuesday, Gandhi said the BJP and the RSS are controlling all the instruments of politics in India. He said before starting his Bharat Jodo Yatra, he realised that the normal tools that have historically been used in politics were not working anymore. The BJP is threatening people and misusing government agencies. The Bharat Jodo Yatra started because all the instruments that we needed to connect with the people were controlled by the BJP-RSS," he said. We were also finding that in some way, it had become quite difficult to act politically. And thats why we decided to walk from the southernmost tip of India to Srinagar," he said. Gandhi said the yatra carried the spirit of affection, respect and humility. If one studies history, it can be seen that all spiritual leaders including Guru Nanak Dev ji, Guru Basavanna ji, Narayana Guru ji united the nation in a similar way," he said. Gandhi said India is not what is being shown in the media which likes to promote a political narrative that is far from reality, asserting that there is a huge distortion". It was very clear to me in the Yatra that its in the medias interest to project these things, it helps the BJP. So, dont think that everything you see in the media is the truth," he said. India is not what the media shows. The media likes to show a particular narrative. It likes to promote a political narrative that is actually not what is going on in India," he said. He said that there are people in India who think they know more than God and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is one such specimen". Speaking at the Mohabbat Ki Dukaan event organised by Indian Overseas Congress USA in Santa Clara in the US state of California on Tuesday, Gandhi said these people are absolutely convinced" that they know everything and can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army. The world is too big and complicated for any person to know everything. That is the diseaseThere is a group of people in India who are absolutely convinced they know everything. They think they know even more than God. They can sit with God and explain to him whats going on. And of course, our prime minister is one such specimen. If you sat Modiji with God, he will explain to God how the universe works and God will get confused about what have I created, he said, evoking peals of laughter from hundreds of his Indian American supporters. They think they can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army. But at the core of it is mediocrity. Theyre not ready to listen!" he said. top videos Gandhi also said, The new parliament house is nothing but a distraction and the installation of the Sengol was just a drama to divert people. BJP cant really discuss the real issues of the country- like unemployment, price rise, and crumbling education system." (With inputs from agencies) Days after the Congress leadership projected that the tussle in its Rajasthan unit was on hold, Sachin Pilot on Wednesday made it clear that he will not budge on his demands from the Ashok Gehlot government. On a visit to his Tonk assembly constituency, the dissident Congress leader indicated that it was the last day before what was being seen as an ultimatum to Gehlot ends. So, let us see what happens tomorrow, he told reporters. The feud between the chief minister and his former deputy escalated a few weeks back with Pilot holding a daylong fast demanding action by the state government against corruption during the previous BJP term in the state. And while ending a five-day foot march later, he said this and his two other demands should be met by this month-end or he will launch a state-wide agitation. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and former party president Rahul Gandhi met the two Rajasthan leaders on Monday. The party said they both had agreed to work unitedly. But in Tonk, Pilot signalled that he is sticking to his stand. I want to say it again that the issues that I had raised, particularly the corruption issue vast corruption and loot in the previous BJP rule action will have to be taken on them. As far as getting justice for the youth is concerned, I think there is no possibility of any compromise on it," Pilot said, referring to exams for government jobs being cancelled after paper leaks. I had said on May 15 that the state government should take action on the issues of corruption by the BJP government and the youth," he said, reminding that this was the last day of the month. Pilot said he is waiting for action by the Gehlot government. Talks were held in Delhi the day before yesterday. They (the leadership) said the responsibility of taking action lies with the state government. So, let us see what happens tomorrow, he said. The Congress on Monday had sought to project that all was fine now with its Rajasthan unit, where the two leaders have tussled over leadership since the partys government came to power. There were suggestions that the party had worked out a formula for both the state leaders to work together and fight the year-end assembly elections unitedly. Pilot said the filling of vacant posts at the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) was necessary for its better functioning. He said the youths who live in rented accommodation while preparing for competitive examinations suffer when papers get leaked. So the aspirants should get financial compensation in such situations, he added. Referring to the Congress win in the Karnataka Assembly elections, he said the BJP lost as it repeatedly deceived people. They talk about double engines. But now those engines have started seizing," Pilot said. The BJP uses the double engine analogy to claim that there is development when the party is in power both in the state and at the Centre. top videos Pilot said the BJP regime in Karnataka was corrupt and the Congress had accused it of being a 40 per cent commission" government. The people agreed with this and voted for the Congress, he claimed. While ending his five-day Jan Sangharsh Yatra in Jaipur, Pilot had made three demands reconstitution of the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC), compensation to youths affected by the leak of exam papers, and a high-level probe into allegations of corruption against the previous Vasundhara Raje government. The crucial Karnataka cabinet meeting on implementation of the Congresss five pre-poll guarantees has been deferred from Thursday to Friday, giving the opposition another chance to attack the party. But ahead of the cabinet meeting, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramiah held a meeting with his cabinet colleagues on Wednesday at Vidhana Soudha to discuss the way forward on implementation of the guarantees. The Ministers who attended the closed-door pre-cabinet meet told News18 that there was a brief discussion on the ways to implement the guarantees. The Chief Minister also asked the Ministers of the respective departments to submit a detailed report they have received from their officials and share the key points about the financial status and modes. Siddaramaiah also asked the officials of the finance department to take part in the meeting and share the report on how much fund is unspent and the additional funds the government will require to implement the guarantees. Chief Secretary Vandita Sharma was seen explaining the proposed implementation plan of the guarantees to the CM during the meeting. During its election campaigning, the Congress promised 200 units of free electricity supply a month to households, Rs 2,000 monthly to every woman head of a household, 10 kg free rice to low-income families, free bus travel for women, and a monthly stipend to unemployed graduates and diploma holders. COST OF PROMISE Minister Ramalinga Reddy pledged to fulfill the Congresss poll guarantee of free bus travel for all women in the state. Of the five guarantees, one is from our department. Whatever is the expenditure, the government will pay. As we said, the government will ensure free travel for all women. The picture will be clear in the cabinet meeting and the CM will share more details, said Reddy. Sources from the four road transport corporations Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), and Kalyan Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC) told News18 that the department would have to forgo approximately Rs 4,700 crore annually, if women traveled for free on their buses. Also, the energy department has estimated the cost of giving 200 units of free power to 21.4 million families at Rs 12,038 crore. The Anna Bhagya scheme would cost more than Rs 10,000 crore monthly to provide 10 kg of free rice to each member of 1.27 crore BPL households. The government will have to spend the least money on Yuva Nidhi (unemployment benefits), which is expected to cost Rs 1,200 crore. The experts, meanwhile, have estimated that the implementation of all five guarantees will cost the exchequer over Rs 52,000 crore. OPPN ATTACK As the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state is attacking the Congress for allegedly betraying the state people by coming up with conditions to implement the guarantees, Home Minister G Parameshwar said, How can I say that, the cabinet will come up with a decision soon. top videos Meanwhile, BJP leaders in the various districts are running a campaign, asking people not to pay electricity bills as the Congress promised free power to all during the assembly polls. BJP ex-MLA Renukacharya has also warned the Congress government that he would launch a protest soon if the Siddaramaiah-led government fails to implement the five guarantees. A 60-year-old man in Italy lived with his mothers body for 6 years not out of love, grief or shock but because of his selfishness. According to a report in the Mirror, the name of the deceased woman was Helga Maria Hengbarth who died six years ago at the age of 86. Until recently, her son kept the body of his mother in the house and lived with her. He told the neighbours that his mum had gone to her home in Germany. The son preserved the womans corpse only so that he could collect the pension in her name. In 6 years, he got about 156,000 i.e. more than Rs 1.59 crore using the dead body of his mother. The incident came to light when authorities broke into the womans apartment in Italys Veneto region. The Italian authorities got suspicious after they found that Helga didnt claim anything from her health card for the last 6 years. There was no record of her claiming anything on her health card even during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Mirror report. When they raided the house, the 60-year-old son was not there but the police found Helgas dead body wrapped, mummified and packed on the bed. After the autopsy was ordered by prosecutors Bruno Bruni and Alberto Sergi, it was discovered that Helga had already died 6 years ago. The son, who was not present in the house during the raid by authorities later turned himself in to the police. top videos Police are now probing the case and investigating how the son managed to withdraw her mothers pension in all these years when she was dead, the Mirror added. A similar incident happened in the Netherlands earlier when a man, 82 years old, kept his 101-year-old fathers dead body as he didnt want to lose him". In a strange incident, a cat weighing 8.5kg fell from a six-storey high building and smashed into a cars rear view window without getting hurt. Shifu somehow survived the fall without a scratch on his body. The incident took place in Bangkok. Shifu has been making headlines after the cars owner, Apiwat Toyothaka, shared a Facebook post on 27 May, explaining that he was surprised to discover that a cat had smashed into his car at 7am. He further revealed that the cat had fallen from the sixth floor and after crashing, he created a giant hole with shattered glass pieces all around. The X-ray scans of the cat showed no broken bones, except for two lost claws. The cat also can eat normally and does not have any injuries or bruises. Also Read: Womans Terrifying Story on How Her Life Changed After Arranged Marriage is Relatable to Many Despite the loss, Apiwat said that he couldnt be angry after he noticed how scared the cat was. According to The Nation, he found the cat hiding under his car. This was after he jumped out of the big hole created post the crash. A security camera footage revealed that Shifu hung briefly from a balcony on the sixth floor of Apiwats condominium. Soon, the cat lost its grip and fell. What is even more scary is that the cat hit the third floor balcony before smashing into the car. Also Read: Women and More Likely Than Men to Feel Shame When Listening to Audio Erotica top videos Meanwhile, earlier, a video that went viral captured an extremely bizarre moment when a cat fell from the sky and crashed onto an elderly persons head, knocking him unconscious. A short film by CCTV, reports of a guy named Gao Fengua, wandering along a sidewalk with the golden retriever in the city of Harbin in the North-Eastern Chinese province of Heilongjiang. As the cat was seen falling from a considerable height, it seemed as if the cat fell from the sky, taking the elderly man by complete surprise. The man in the video was said to have regained his consciousness. However, there were no injuries. Language can be a fascinating topic. It changes with time and different people contribute their own words to make a language more accommodating. The fusion of language is not an alien topic. Did you know about this interesting language fusion of two completely unexpected languages Punjabi and Swahili spoken in Kenya? Radhika Kaur, an Indian-origin woman living in Kenya, shed light on the fascinating linguistic fusion used by the Kenyan-Punjabi community. In a TikTok video, she revealed that Punjabis who migrated to Kenya during British colonisation merged certain Swahili words into their language. Radhika explains that this unique blend of languages may be incomprehensible to those who solely speak Punjabi or Swahili. To illustrate her point, she provides an example saying, Tusi jikoni vich pangusa kitha si," which translates to Did you mop the kitchen?" The video was shared on Twitter along with a post that read, The British Raj era saw the migration of many South Asians, especially Punjabis to colonial territories like Kenya as part of colonial schemes or for economic opportunities. Today, Kenyan Punjabis speak their own variety of Punjabi that has been influenced by the Swahili language. The British Raj era saw the migration of many South Asians, especially Punjabis to colonial territories like Kenya as part of colonial schemes or for economic opportunitiesToday, Kenyan-Punjabis speak their own variety of Punjabi that has been influenced by the Swahili language pic.twitter.com/7hFrStq7SA Lalkaar (@Lalkaar_) May 29, 2023 It was followed up with more video featuring Radhika Kaur talking about the different versions of the language. Some loanwords from Swahili that have been adopted into common speech by the Punjabi community of Kenya." Some loanwords from Swahili that have been adopted into common speech by the Punjabi community of Kenya: pic.twitter.com/c4gYG1BI1o Lalkaar (@Lalkaar_) May 29, 2023 These videos have created quite a buzz on social media, amassing nearly 1 lakh views along with a range of reactions. Radhikas informative videos offer crucial insights, revealing how these two languages have seamlessly merged to form a unique linguistic hybrid. One user expressed surprise as they realised that a word they thought was Punjabi actually originated from Swahili. This is really embarrassing, but my Mum is from Kenya, and although I don't speak Swahili, there are some words I have picked up. I thought Pasi was a Panjabi word for Iron lol Karan Matharu (@Karan89Matharu) May 30, 2023 Another user expressed amazement at the diversity within humanity. Everyday I learn we come in so many diff forms and that truly amazes me shivani (@shivanidhunna) May 30, 2023 A third user found the connection between languages and migration intriguing. Fascinating! a glimpse of how languages might have evolved as ppl moved from place to place. YK (@YasirKh59304840) May 29, 2023 A user drew a parallel to Western Punjabis who mix English and Punjabi. top videos This is the same concept as western punjabis mixing English & Punjabi when speaking. Blow The Trumpets (@KhalsaRajHogaya) May 30, 2023 Swahili, also known as kiSwahili or Kiswahili, is a Bantu language spoken along the east coast of Africa, from Lamu Island in Kenya to the southern border of Tanzania. Interestingly, Arabic plays an important role in shaping the language. The term Swahili itself has its roots in Arabic, specifically from the word sawahili," which means of the coast." A woman took to Twitter and shared how her life completely changed after an arranged marriage. A Twitter user who goes by the name Chullu Supremacy took to the micro blogging site and shared how an arranged marriage deeply impacted her life when it was a transformation from a progressive family to an orthodox one. She mentioned how one of the first things that happened was that her voice was curtailed. In my new family, my opinions and desires were often dismissed or overlooked. It felt suffocating to be constantly silenced and disregarded, as if my thoughts and feelings didnt matter, she wrote. Further, she mentioned that restrictions were placed on her friendships. She was no longer allowed to meet her male friends and this felt like a heavy burden to her. Making the situation worse, she was labeled as a barren woman because of her personal choice to delay giving birth. Also Read: Woman Talks About Age Shaming in An Arranged Marriage Set Up And Sadly Many Can Relate The pressure extended beyond me to my family. They were constantly hounded and pressurised to keep me in check, to ensure I adhered to the orthodox norms set by my in-laws. It felt like my independence was being crushed from all directions, she wrote. It got much worse for her after she conceived as she was abandoned. My in-laws and even my spouse washed their hands off me and the baby. There was no financial help for the baby, no emotional support, just a stark desertion, she wrote. Soon, there was a shift from mental abuse to domestic abuse. Her relationship turned into a nightmare. The woman mentioned how she is sharing her story to raise awareness and support many such women out there. Here is the Twitter thread: Arranged Marriages A Thread As I sit here reflecting on my journey, I can't help but share how drastically my life changed after getting married. I went from a modern, progressive family to orthodox in-laws, and the impact on my freedom and happiness has been profound. Chullu Supremacy (@diwaahdiva) May 30, 2023 Another significant change was the restriction placed on my friendships. I was no longer allowed to meet or spend time with my male friends, even those I had known for years. The arbitrary boundaries placed on my relationships felt like a heavy burden. Chullu Supremacy (@diwaahdiva) May 30, 2023 As if the mental abuse wasn't enough, domestic abuse also became a part of my daily existence. The once loving relationship turned into a nightmare, filled with fear and violence. The walls witnessed my pain, while the world remained oblivious. Chullu Supremacy (@diwaahdiva) May 30, 2023 Sharing my story is not just about catharsis; it's about raising awareness. There are countless women like me, trapped in oppressive environments, desperately seeking liberation. We need to challenge societal norms and fight for equality and justice. Chullu Supremacy (@diwaahdiva) May 30, 2023 Sharing my story is not just about catharsis; it's about raising awareness. There are countless women like me, trapped in oppressive environments, desperately seeking liberation. We need to challenge societal norms and fight for equality and justice. Chullu Supremacy (@diwaahdiva) May 30, 2023 Sadly, many women came forth and agreed how it is a normal practise. Also, many were able to relate with her. Same thing happened with my sweet sister. She is no longer the girl she was before marriage, mentioned a Twitter user. Another person wrote, We dont know each other but my mother went through the same situation years ago. Sending hugs, strength and solidarity, dear stranger. There are only better days ahead of you. top videos Also Read: This Montage of Star Plus Daily Soaps Back in the Day Hits Hard With Nostalgia What is your take on the same? Pakistans interior minister Rana Sanaullah on Tuesday said former prime minister Imran Khan will be tried in a military court for the May 9 riots. Cadres from his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) retaliated with attacks on army installations and government and public properties after the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) arrested Imran Khan earlier this month. At least eight people died, 290 wounded and 1,900 protesters were arrested as they clashed with pro-government protesters and police. The PTI cadres stormed the home of a corps commander in Lahore also called Jinnah House and tore down a gate of General Headquarters in Rawalpindi. Sanaullah told Dawn News that Imran Khan personally carried out the planning of the attacks on the army installations a day before his arrest. He then said Khan should be tried in military court. Absolutely, why shouldnt he? The programme that he made to target the military installations and then had it executed, in my understanding absolutely, is a case of a military court, Sanaullah was quoted as saying. The PTI supporters chanted a slogan that Imran Khan is our red line, and the planning and preparation were done on Imran Khans initiative and instigation. He carried it all out. He is the architect of all this discord, he further added while appearing on Dawn News television news programme. Sanaullah then alleged that all planning by Imran Khan and PTI were done before he was taken in NAB custody. He said the evidence lies in tweets and messages sent by Imran Khan. PTI leader Omar Ayub doubted Rana Sanaullahs cognitive abilities and said Sanaullah has become unhinged in a tweet. From holding midnight dubious press conferences to making statements about trying PTI Chairman Imran Khan in a military court, it just proves that he has finally become unhinged and is unfit to perform duties as a minister, he tweeted. The Punjab Police earlier this week claimed that Imran and his close aides planned and coordinated efforts to storm the residence of the Lahore corps commander and other buildings while citing a geo-fencing report. top videos They said over 400 calls were made by the PTI chairman and other senior leaders to allegedly incite party workers to move towards the Pakistan army officers residence in Lahore Cantt, and other sensitive public buildings. Their report said the rioters were in contact with PTI top brass who were passing orders from Zaman Park. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday called on Beijing to agree to greater communication after a fighter jet incident last week he blamed on a Chinese pilot. The US military said that a Chinese fighter pilot flew aggressively last week near a US surveillance aircraft over the South China Sea, with Beijing blaming US provocation" for the episode. The Pentagon also said that Chinas Defence Minister Li Shangfu declined talks with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin when the two are in Singapore this week for the annual Shangri-La Dialogue. Blinken said that US aeroplanes were flying in international airspace on a routine mission". There have been a series of these actions directed not just at us but at other countries in recent months," Blinken told reporters on a visit to Sweden. I think it only underscores why it is so important that we have regular, open lines of communication including, by the way, between our defence ministers," Blinken said. The most dangerous thing is not to communicate and, as a result, to have a misunderstanding and miscommunication," Blinken said. top videos And as we said repeatedly, while we have a real competition with China, we also want to make sure that doesnt veer into conflict and the most important starting point for that are regular lines of communication." Blinken cancelled a trip to Beijing in February after the United States said it spotted a surveillance balloon from China over the US mainland. China on Wednesday accused India of unfair and discriminatory treatment of Chinese journalists and threatened to take appropriate countermeasures against the country. The allegation came in the wake of a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report that said China and India have effectively kicked out" a large number of each others journalists recently by denying visa renewals. As per the WSJ report, New Delhi has declined to renew visas this month for the only two remaining Chinese state media journalists in the country. The report said that Indian media had four journalists stationed in China. However, according to a Chinese official, at least two of them have not been granted visas to re-enter the country. Additionally, a third journalist was informed this month that his accreditation had been revoked. Speaking at a press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said, Chinese journalists have suffered unfair and discriminatory treatment in India for a long time. In 2017, the Indian side shortened the period of validity of visas held by Chinese journalists in India to three months or even one month without any valid reason." Since 2020, the Indian side has refused to review and approve Chinese journalists applications for stationing in India. As a result, the number of Chinese journalists stationed in India has plummeted from 14 at the normal time to just one," she added. The Chinese spokesperson claimed that the Indian side still has not renewed the visa of the last Chinese journalist in the country. The number of Chinese journalists stationed in India is about to drop to zero. Considering this, the Chinese side has no choice but to take appropriate counter-measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese media organizations," she added. However, the Chinese spokesperson added that China is still willing to maintain communication with India. Earlier in April, a media report said that China had frozen the visas of two Indian journalists. In response, the Ministry of External Affairs had said India hoped that the Chinese facilitate the continued presence of Indian journalists in Beijing. During a press conference, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that there are Chinese journalists with valid Indian visas who are engaged in press activities. We dont see any difficulties in doing reporting" (by Chinese journalists), he added. India and China are locked in a lingering border standoff in eastern Ladakh for three years. The bilateral relationship came under severe strain following the deadly clash in Galwan Valley in Eastern Ladakh in June 2020. India, as the current chair of G20, has arranged a series of nationwide meetings in preparation for the upcoming summit in New Delhi this September. In the past two months, Beijing has skipped G20 meetings held in Ladakh and Kashmir. top videos (With inputs from Shalinder Wangu) China threw its weight behind Serbia as tensions remained high in Kosovo between ethnic Serbs and ethnic Albanian-majority. We urge NATO to respect relevant countrys sovereignty and territorial integrity and truly contribute to peace in the region, Mao Ning, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, said. China supports Serbias effort to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposes unilateral actions by the temporary institutions in Pristina and calls on it to perform its duty of establishing an association/community of Serb majority municipalities, Ning was quoted as saying by state-run Global Times. It should be noted that China, Russia and Spain, Slovakia, Cyprus, Romania, and Greece (members of the EU) do not recognise Kosovo. India also does not recognise Kosovo. The Global Times in its report remained critical of NATO and said the institution pretends to be a peacekeeping force but it is actually the one who fans the flames. The Kosovo War was fought in 1999 between forces of former Yugoslavia and ethnic Albanian militias backed by NATO. The war led to deaths on both sides and displaced over a million people. Several war crimes were committed and the rifts between the Serbs, Albanians, Kosovars and other communities that were created still persist. Tensions between Kosovo and Serbia flared once again due to a clash between law enforcement officials and ethnic Serbs in the countrys northern region. A police officer was slightly wounded and a police car was damaged after armed men fired guns from a vehicle in the village of Serbovc, Zvecan commune, 50 kilometres north of the capital, Pristina, news agency Associated Press reported earlier this week. After the Kosovo Albanian police officer sustained injuries, the police increased their presence in the four ethnic Serb-dominated communes in the north. The clashes erupted also after the primary political party in the region, the Serbian List, urged the Serb community to abstain from voting in the elections and advised their candidates not to participate, effectively allowing unopposed participation of ethnically Albanian candidates. Kosovos Prime Minister Albin Kurti said there was a threatening campaign orchestrated by Belgrade" and carried out through intimidation, pressure and criminal groups. Following the conclusion of the elections, officials reported a significantly low turnout of approximately 1,567 voters in the four municipalities, accounting for a turnout of 3.5%. The successful boycott in the majority Serb regions resulted in this severely decreased participation. In Zvecan, where the population is around 16,800, predominantly consisting of ethnic Serbs, the newly-elected Albanian mayor won with just over 100 votes, sparking concerns about the legitimacy of his victory. During a confrontation at the municipal office in Zvecan, ethnic Serb demonstrators resorted to violent means, hurling Molotov cocktails at NATOs Kosovo Force (KFOR) troops and striking their riot shields with batons. top videos As the peacekeepers tried to maintain order, 30 of their personnel, belonging to Italian and Hungarian contingents, sustained injuries. (with inputs from Associated Press and CNN) China recently launched a smear campaign on social media against Dalai Lama to vilify the Tibetan spiritual leader and paint him as a pedophile, a report has claimed. The smear campaign started after a controversial video surfaced in April where Dalai Lama was seen kissing a child on the lips and subsequently requesting the child to suck his tongue". In a video that went viral on social media platforms, the Dalai Lama could be seen kissing the lips of a boy who approached to hug him. During the incident, the Buddhist monk extended his tongue and requested the boy to suck it". The Dalai Lama can be heard asking, Can you suck my tongue?" in the viral footage. When the video went into the hands of Chinese propaganda officers, an edited version was spread online to vilify the Buddhist leader. An edited video was made out of the incident to make it look like the Dalai Lama wanted to kiss the 8-year-old boy. China has, in past few years, put new resources into manipulating social media overseas using global platforms unlike the Chinese ones. Using a Twitter account made few months back, the edited clip was sent out with the slur Pedo-Dalai Lama. The video went viral through linked bot accounts and networks of trusted pro-regime people globally. The video received millions of hits withing days and lots of memes kept piling on. After the incident, there was a huge outrage and global condemnation against Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama issued an official apology saying he regrets the incident. His Holiness often teases people he meets in an innocent and playful way, even in public and before cameras. He regrets the incident," the official statement read. It further said that Dalai Lama wishes to apologise to the boy and his family, as well as his many friends across the world. A Cornell University professor explains how the 'suck my tongue' controversy was a globally coordinated attack by the Chinese Communist Party on @DalaiLama and how the CCP is hell-bent on destroying the image of the Dalai Lama. But it is backfiring as millions of Chinese people pic.twitter.com/DSFRfkaENT Global Order (@TheGlobalOrder) May 24, 2023 The report said that the Chinese trick succeeded among millions in the United States, Europe and across the world, due to their prior prejudice and self-righteous tendency and widespread ignorance about Tibet. It further claimed that it is customary in Tibet to feed ones children by mouth, particularly in the Dalai Lamas old home district Amdo. When they have run out of treats or sweets to give their grandchild: Theyll stick out their tongue, and say to the child, You may eat my tongue, for I have nothing else left. That the Dalai Lama said suck instead of eat was perhaps because he was thinking of candy, not food the original Tibetan wording is che le sa, literally eat my tongue, the report said. The Tibetan exile activist Lhadon Tethong claims that the goal was also to distract the world from the new dramatic oppression inside Chinese-occupied Tibet. The Beijing propaganda come even as UN human rights experts warned that Chinese authorities have been detaining large numbers of children and adults in Tibet, to erase their culture and turn them into Chinese-speaking laborers along with the parallel genocide against the Uyghurs Muslims. The Dalai Lama has lived in exile in India since 1959, when he was forced to flee his homeland during Maos reign in Beijing. The Chinese authorities have made it a criminal offense even to have a photo of him. And ever since 1959, Chinese officials have been vilifying him in every medium possible. top videos The report also said that the smear campaign had an element of revenge as a Mongol boy born in the United States was named as the 10th Khalkha Jetsun Dhampa Rinpoche, the third highest rank in Tibetan Buddhism, by the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala in March this year. The move shows the global vitality of Tibetan Buddhism and strengthens the Tibetan communitys by naming a successor to the Dalai Lama, which China has struggled to stamp out. The Malaysian coast guard earlier this week detained a Chinese vessel which was allegedly involved in stealing World War II shipwrecks, according to Japanese news outlets Kyodo and Nikkei Asia. Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency in a statement that the Chinese vessel was registered in Fuzhou, China and that it had detained 32 crew members on Sunday for anchoring in waters off Malaysias eastern coast, in southern Johor, without a permit. The Malaysian coast guard said they found on the ship cannon shells which could have been from sunken British World War II battleships. The cannon shells are likely from the Prince of Wales and the Repulse. These are similar to ones found earlier in May at a scrapyard in Johor state. The Prince of Wales and the Repulse were drowned by Japanese bombers in 1941 off the east coast of Malaysia in the South China Sea, Kyodo said. The incident has been described as one of the worst disasters in Britains naval history, Kyodo said. At least 840 British sailors lost their lives in the attack. The Chuan Hong 68, the Chinese vessel being held in Malaysia, was spotted in the location of the shipwrecks since last month, the New Straits Times, a local newspaper, reported. top videos The report pointed out that Chuan Hong 68 dredged up the remains of the battleships and then unloads the extracted items at a private jetty in Johor with a scrapyard which can store as well as melt down metals. During a raid on the scrapyard, authorities discovered relics, including unexploded ordnance, artillery shells, and scrap metal, believed to originate from the Prince of Wales, as reported by the newspaper. The National Museum of the Royal Navy expressed distress and concern over the apparent profit-driven vandalism of the two ships. When the debt ceiling deal received the nod from the House Rules Committee as they voted 7-6 Tuesday to advance it to the full House, it seemed like US President Joe Biden and US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy could both walk away from it thinking they both won something after weeks of tense discussions. For Biden, it may come as a relief ahead of the US election season but for McCarthy it could mean trouble. A report by the Hill said North Carolina House Representative Dan Bishop became the first Republican to publicly support ousting Kevin McCarthy. It is not just Bishop who is calling for his removal from the role of the US House Speaker. The House Freedom Caucus, a group of which he is a member, has already said that Republicans must vote against this deal en masse. The House Freedom Caucus feels the debt limit deal that did not meet their standards. They wanted more spending cuts despite the package possibly reducing deficits by $1.5 trillion over the decade. This deal fails, fails completely, and thats why these members and others will be absolutely opposed to the deal," Rep. Scott Perry, Pennsylvanian Republican, the chairman of the Freedom Caucus, said, flanked by others outside the Capitol. We will do everything in our power to stop it, he further added. Texas Republican Chip Roy also chimed in: Theres going to be a reckoning. These three aforementioned Republican leaders were among the 20 House Republicans who withheld support for McCarthy for Speaker in January, resulting in a historic 15-ballot Speaker election, the Hill said in a report. Among those 20 Republicans, there were also 12 who denied the 2020 Election results. Let me put it this way. I think this bill indicates exactly why I have concerns about him being Speaker, Biggs was quoted as saying by the Hill. Matt Gaetz, also among these 20, also opposed to McCarthys speakership said the changes McCarthy negotiated with Biden were cosmetic in nature. If a majority of Republicans are against a piece of legislation and you use Democrats to pass it, that would immediately be a black letter violation of the deal we had with McCarthy to allow his ascent to the Speakership, Gaetz was quoted as saying by Newsmax. top videos He then went on to say that there is potential for it triggering an immediate motion to vacate. The motion to vacate the chair, a rarely employed measure, has not resulted in the removal of any Speaker thus far, although former Rep. Mark Meadows (R-North Carolina) famously filed such a motion against former Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) in 2015, which, although defeated in the House Rules Committee, is believed to have played a role in Boehners subsequent resignation from office. The European Union and the United States said Wednesday that they would soon release a voluntary code of conduct on artificial intelligence, hoping to develop common standards among democracies as China makes rapid gains. Both political and technology industry leaders have been warning of the growing risks as AI takes off, with potentially wide-ranging effects on privacy and other civil liberties. After talks with EU officials in Sweden, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters that Western partners felt the fierce urgency" to act and would ask like-minded countries" to join the voluntary code of conduct. Theres almost always a gap when new technologies emerge," Blinken said, with the time it takes for governments and institutions to figure out how to legislate or regulate". European Commission Vice President Margrethe Vestager added that a draft would be put forward within weeks". We think its really important that citizens can see that democracies can deliver," she said. She voiced hope to do that in the broadest possible circle with our friends in Canada, in the UK, in Japan, in India, bringing as many onboard as possible". Sam Altman, whose firm OpenAI created the popular ChatGPT bot, took part in the talks of the Trade and Technology Council between the EU and the United States, hosted this year in the northern Swedish city of Lulea. The forum was set up in 2021 to try to ease trade frictions after the turbulent US presidency of Donald Trump but has since set its sights largely on artificial intelligence. In a joint statement released by the White House and the European Commission, the two sides called AI a transformative technology with great promise for our people, offering opportunities to increase prosperity and equity". But in order to seize the opportunities it presents, we must mitigate its risks," it said. It added that experts from the two sides would work on cooperation on AI standards and tools for trustworthy AI and risk management". They also discussed how to work together on sixth-generation mobile technology, an area in which Europeans have taken an early lead. - China concerns - The EU has been moving forward on the worlds first regulations on AI, which would ban biometric surveillance and ensure human control of the technologies, though the rules would not enter into force before 2025 at the earliest. China has also discussed regulations but Western powers fear that Beijing, with its growing prowess in the field and willingness to export to fellow authoritarian countries, could effectively set global standards. While concerns have risen about China in the European Union, the bloc as a whole has yet to take as assertive a stance as the US has, with French President Emmanuel Macron recently leading a major business delegation to the worlds second-largest economy. But Blinken played down differences between the US and European positions on China, saying that None of us are looking for a Cold War". On the contrary, we all benefit from trade and investment with China, but as opposed to de-coupling, we are focused on de-risking," he said. - Rising wonder of AI - The United States has made no serious effort to rein in AI despite rising calls for regulation, including by some in the tech industry. Technology leaders, including Altman, warned in a joint statement Tuesday that AI could put the world at risk without regulation. Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war," they wrote. ChatGPT burst into the spotlight late last year as it demonstrated an ability to generate essays, poems and conversations through minimal input. Hoping to demonstrate both the strengths and risks of AI, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on Wednesday delivered a speech to parliament partly written by ChatGPT. Even if it didnt always hit the nail on the head, both in terms of the details of the governments work programme and punctuation it is both fascinating and terrifying what it is capable of," she said. The Computer and Communications Industry Association, which represents major technology firms, in a statement welcomed the heightened, pointed transatlantic engagement" on AI at the meeting in Sweden. top videos But it reiterated its opposition to any EU fees or actions against foreign tech companies. Former Pakistan prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman said that a kings party is being carved out of his party. He claimed that the seats for the next election will be divided between the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). The effective governance that Pakistan now desperately needs comes from popular support, not from the establishments backing, Imran Khan said. He then went on to say that the judiciary is under pressure and top judges are receiving threatening phone calls from unknown numbers. I know that there is a lot of pressure on the judiciary. Judges are also receiving threatening phone calls from unknown numbers. Colonel Asim, the head of my security, has been abducted. My security vehicles have been seized. I am facing the biggest threat, but do you think I am backing down? I tell the nation that I will never accept slavery, Khan said. Khan alleged that the second tier of senior leaders were the first to buckle under pressure and now the pressure is being applied on the top leadership roles. He said that those who have been given tickets for the Punjab assembly elections are now being pressured to leave the party. Police have a one-point agenda: arrest those associated with the PTI, even at the lowest levels, Khan said. Khan also said that those drawing parallels between the political situation when he was the prime minister to what is happening now are wrong. He said during his leadership the law enforcement agencies did not detain women, raid homes of leaders and tortured dissidents. He claimed that PTI leaders Ejaz Chaudhry, Omar Sarfraz Cheema and Mahmoodur Rashid were being tortured claiming he saw the videos. top videos Khan appeared defiant despite defections and said the positions which are currently empty are being filled. (They) have younger blood, newer people coming in. Theyll probably get arrested, too, Khan said in a separate interview with the BBC, refuting that the exit of the several senior leaders has caused a crisis. French President Emmanuel Macron will make a diplomatic push to reassure central and eastern European countries that France understands the security concerns that has permanently changed due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Macron will call for a strategic awakening in a speech in the Slovakian capital, Bratislava, on Wednesday and highlight the work done by France to protect NATOs allies in the East including posting 1,250 French troops in Romania and 300 in Estonia, The Guardian reported. Emmanuel Macron is trying to strengthen solidarity with Eastern Europe as he seeks to lead European efforts to boost the Europes military preparedness and co-ordination on its eastern flank. He will visit Slovakia on Wednesday where he will attend a security conference in Bratislava and Moldova on Thursday to attend the second European Political Community Summit. Macron has been viewed with suspicion across eastern Europe, especially in Poland, as a leader who sees Russia as part of Europes security architecture and who wishes to use the Ukraine war to boost European defence autonomy, the report said. In Moldova, 27 EU members, 20 more leaders have been invited from countries with as varied strategic interests as the United Kingdom, Turkey, Switzerland, Iceland, Serbia, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Macron will stress Frances commitment to Ukraines victory and say he will not tolerate a frozen conflict. With the meeting, the European leaders want to send a strong signal of support to Moldova, Europes poorest country which is a regular target of destabilisation campaigns by Russia, the National News said. top videos A French senior official said Macron has already sanctioned an increase of more than a third in Frances defence spending for 2024-30 compared to previous six years as the French President sees no prospect of an end to the new cold war any time soon. He will further argue that Europe needs to do more to support its own armament production capacity and explore defence partnerships between member states. Ahead of his visit to India, Nepal Prime Minister Pushpakamal Dahal Prachanda has said that he would raise long-term power trade issue with New Delhi, hoping that this bottleneck" will be sorted out and ensure that the Himalayan nation will be a favourable market for its surplus energy. Prachanda, along with a high-level delegation, will travel to India on Wednesday on a four-day official visit for talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi and other leaders to further strengthen the age-old, multifaceted and cordial ties. This will be the 68-year-old Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-Maoist) leaders first bilateral visit abroad after assuming office in December 2022. There are some understandings relating to energy with India, which is of long-term interest to Nepal, the Prime Minister pointed out. We will raise some issues relating to long-term power trade with India during my visit, Prachanda told Nepals National News Agency (RSS), according to the government daily Gorkhapatra. This is what the Nepalese people have been seeking for many years, Prachanda said. It is our realisation that if we cant find out the proper market for energy after our production starts, then big investments wont come, said the Prime Minister. I think this bottleneck will be sorted out during my visit, he said adding We expect that Nepal will get a favourable market. Nepal on Sunday decided to allow Indias Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) Limited to develop a second hydropower project in the country. At present SJVN is developing a 900-MW Arun -III hydroelectric project, a run-of-river located on the Arun River in Eastern Nepal, scheduled to be completed in 2024. A meeting of the Investment Board Nepal (IBN) chaired by Prime Minister Prachanda approved the draft project development agreement (PDA) to be signed with Indias state-owned SJVN to develop the 669-megawatt (MW) Lower Arun Hydropower project in eastern Nepal, an official statement said on Sunday. Our main concern for many years is creating an atmosphere for tri-country power trade among Nepal, India and Bangladesh. There has been an agreement in principle to supply 50 MW of power to Bangladesh via the Indian grid for the time being, he said. Besides, I think my visit will pave the way to move forward the matters relating to trade and transit, which has been pending for the past few years, the Prime Minister said. We will also move forward with matters relating to constructing a dry port in Dodhara Chadani. There are several issues besides these, which we will raise in the national interest of Nepal, he said. We will hold constructive dialogue if there is any problem between us, he said. The border issues being raised at the peoples level and the future of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) Report. We will try to sort out these issues through diplomatic channels, he added. I think both sides are busy with the homework for better outcomes from my visit in the interest of both the countries, said Prachanda. On Sunday, he met former premiers, foreign ministers and leaders of different political parties to discuss matters related to his upcoming visit to India, according to his aides. The Prime Minister said he will also raise the issue of providing air routes to Nepal during the bilateral talks. We are seriously discussing the matter regarding the air route and we are expecting some positive outcome on the issue, he added. During his visit, the prime minister is also scheduled to pay a courtesy call to President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The prime minister is also scheduled to visit Ujjain and Indore, Madhya Pradesh before returning to Kathmandu on June 3. Minister for Foreign Affairs N P Saud said that he is confident about the positive outcome of the visit. The visit will further strengthen bilateral ties, he said. There are cordial relations between our two countries, he said. "Keeping in view Nepals energy market we will try to sign a long-term power deal with India, he said. During the visit we will make efforts to attract Indian investment in Nepals hydro-power sector, creating a favourable atmosphere for its trade by making a huge investment in constructing transmission lines. A conducive atmosphere will be created for exporting electricity to Bangladesh via India, Saud told reporters. As the Birgunj- Raxaul trading point has become very much congested, we will discuss with India the opening of alternative trading points such as Nepalgunj Rupaidiya and Biratnagar-Jogbani," he added. top videos The Prime Ministers entourage will include Finance Minister Prakash Mahat, Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Prakash Jwala and Minister for Industry and Commerce Ramesh Rijal besides Foreign Minister Saud. Various outstanding matters, including the border issue, will come up during the bilateral talks between Nepal and India, Saud said. Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda arrived in India on Wednesday on a four-day official visit. The visit comes amidst political instability in Nepal and some uneasiness in India-Nepal ties. It is the first bilateral trip abroad by the 68-year-old Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-Maoist) leader after he assumed the office in December last year. The Nepalese PMs India visit has been delayed multiple times in past few months owing to the political instability his government faced back home Prachanda has been facing challenges from the opposition since he took office in December last year. He has made eight cabinet expansions in the past five months in an effort to keep his flocks together. #WATCH | Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda arrives in Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. He was welcomed by MoS Meenakashi Lekhi at the airport.He is here on a four-day visit to India. pic.twitter.com/FN4khB9EZa ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 The border dispute between India and Nepal has also flared up in the recent years. The dispute date back to the 1816 Sugauli Treaty, signed between the British East India Company and Nepal after the Anglo-Nepalese War. The treaty defined the border between the two countries, however, there have been disputes over the exact location of the border ever since. The border dispute between the two countries has flared up in recent years after his predecessor KP Sharma Oli announced Nepals decision to change its map in 2020. The new map showed Kalapani as part of its territory. India objected to the map and the two countries have been engaged in a diplomatic standoff ever since. Prachandas visit to India is seen as an opportunity to improve ties between the two neighbouring countries. The visit will be Prachandas first foreign visit in his latest tenure and his fourth India visit as Nepals prime minister. Nepalese PMs daughter Ganga Dahal is also accompanying him during his India visit. The entourage will also comprise Ministers, Secretaries and senior officials of the Government of Nepal. India-Nepal will hold delegation level talks on Thursday June 1, which will be followed by a joint press conference of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Prachanda. The visit is also expected to deliberate on the issue of new recruitment policy in the Indian Army. The Agnipath scheme announced in June 2022 envisages new recruitments for a four-year period. After four years, only 25% of the recruits will be retained in the Army, while the rest will be discharged with a severance package. The Nepali government has raised concerns about the Agnipath scheme and stopped the recruitment that has been going under a unique arrangement since 1947. Nearly 40,000 Nepali Gurkhas serve in the Indian Armys Gorkha Rifles regiment. As per the data by the Indian Embassy in Nepal, nearly 122,000 Indian Army pensioners are currently living in Nepal. Nepal is expecting India to provide more investments in sectors such as hydroelectricity, hospitality, education, health and manufacturing. Nepal is also looking for alternative ports to get more access to the western markets. Nepal is eying more investments from India to Nepal in sectors such hydroelectricity, hospitality, education, health and manufacturing. Nepal is a landlocked country and Indian ports in the east coast have been a gateway of Nepalese commodities to the world for long. Kolkatas Haldia port has been a traditional gateway for its trade with other countries. The port in Visakhapatnam has become an additional point of trade in recent years. However, Nepal is now also looking for alternative ports to get more access to the western markets. The Nepalese side has expressed eagerness to connect with Mundra port in Gujarat on western coast and Dhamra port in Odisha on the eastern coast to give its trade access with the rest of the world. top videos The Nepalese PM will address the Nepal-India Business Summit in New Delhi and interact with business leaders of both countries. He will also interact with the Nepali community in India over a welcome reception being hosted by the Nepalese Embassy in Delhi. Dahal will proceed to visit Ujjain and Indore, after Delhi, before returning to Kathmandu on 3 June 2023. North Korea attempted to launch what it called a space satellite over the sea to the south on Wednesday, South Koreas military said, as the nuclear-armed North seeks to gain ground in a regional space race. The launch prompted emergency alerts and brief evacuation warnings in parts of South Korea and Japan, which were then withdrawn with no danger or damage reported. South Koreas military said it was still analysing whether the launch was successful, while media in South Korea and Japan said governments there were examining the possibility that it failed. North Korean state media did not immediately report on the launch. North Korea had said it would launch its first military reconnaissance satellite between May 31 and June 11 to boost monitoring of U.S. military activities. It joins an increasingly heated space race in the region. South Korea last week placed satellites in orbit with a domestically designed and produced rocket for the first time, and China sent three astronauts to its now fully operational space station as part of crew rotation on Tuesday. Whether or not North Koreas current satellite mission is a success, Pyongyang can be expected to issue political propaganda about its space capabilities as well as diplomatic rhetoric aimed at driving a wedge between Seoul and Tokyo," said Leif-Eric Easley, an international studies professor at Ewha University in Seoul. WARNINGS ISSUED In data provided to international authorities, North Korea said the launch would carry the rocket south, with various stages and other debris expected to fall over the Yellow Sea and into the Pacific Ocean. Air raid sirens wailed across the South Korean capital of Seoul around 6:32 a.m. (2132 GMT Tuesday) as the city issued a warning asking citizens to prepare for potential evacuation. Later alerts said the city warning had been sent by mistake. The Japanese government issued an emergency warning over its J-Alert broadcasting system for residents of the southern prefecture of Okinawa early on Wednesday morning. The government warned residents to take cover indoors if they were outside. It later said the missile would not fly to Japans territory and lifted the warnings. MISSILE TECHNOLOGY On Tuesday, Ri Pyong Chol, vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission of North Koreas ruling Workers Party, said ongoing joint military exercises by the U.S. and South Korea required Pyongyang to have the means capable of gathering information about the military acts of the enemy in real time." Before Wednesdays launch, the U.S. State Department said any North Korean launch that used ballistic missile technology would violate multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions. Space launch vehicles (SLVs) incorporate technologies that are identical to, and interchangeable with, those used in ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles," a State Department spokesperson said. top videos North Korea has previously attempted five satellite launches, with two satellites placed in orbit, including during its last such launch in 2016. Its capacity for constructing working satellites remains unproven, however, analysts say. To the best of our knowledge, North Korea has a very limited capacity to build satellites," said Brian Weeden of the Secure World Foundation, a U.S.-based organization in the field of space policy and security. They have launched a couple of satellites before, but all of them failed immediately after launch or shortly thereafter and none of them appeared to have any significant capability." South Africas leading opposition party said on Tuesday it had taken legal action to force the government to arrest Vladimir Putin if the Russian President were to attend a planned summit in the country. Pretoria has been faced with a diplomatic dilemma since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant against Putin, who is supposed to visit the nation for a BRICS meeting in August. On Tuesday, the Democratic Alliance (DA) party said it launched a court application to ensure the government detains the Russian leader and hands him over to the ICC should President Putin set foot in South Africa." This pre-emptory court action aims to ensure that South Africa upholds its obligations," DA shadow minister of justice Glynnis Breytenbach said in a statement. A member of the ICC, South Africa, which has close diplomatic ties with Moscow, is due to host the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) bloc summit. But the government is yet to say how it intends to deal with the Russian presidents predicament. Breytenbach said the DA was seeking a declaratory order" to avoid a repeat of 2015 when Pretoria failed to arrest then-Sudanese President Omar Hassan al-Bashir, who was similarly wanted by the ICC. Kremlin spokesman Dmitri Peskov on Tuesday declined to say whether Putin will travel to South Africa for the summit. Russia will be duly represented," Peskov said, adding Moscow expected its BRICS partners not be guided" by illegitimate decisions" such as the ICC arrest warrant. The DAs legal action comes as the government granted diplomatic immunity to officials attending a BRICS foreign ministers meeting this week and the groupings heads of state summit in August. Some read the move as a preparatory step to provide legal cover for Putins visit something Pretoria has denied. These immunities do not override any warrant that may have been issued by any international tribunal against any attendee of the conference," South Africas foreign affairs department said in a statement. Their issuing was standard" procedure for the hosting of international conferences, it said. South Africa has refused to condemn Russias 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. top videos Earlier this month, President Cyril Ramaphosa said his country has been under extraordinary pressure" to pick sides in the conflict, following accusations it has tilted towards the Kremlin. Putin is wanted by the ICC over accusations that Russia unlawfully deported Ukrainian children. Ugandas President Yoweri Museveni on Wednesday defied international calls to rescind an anti-gay law seen as one of the worlds harshest, including a potential death penalty for aggravated homosexuality". The signing of the bill is finished, no one will move us," Museveni said in a statement after a meeting with members of his National Resistance Movement party. The NRM has never had two languages, what we tell you during the day is what we shall tell you during the night," he said. Ugandan activists have called on international donors to impose sanctions against the central African countrys leaders over the law. In a joint statement on Monday after the law was signed, the rights groups denounced a dangerous and discriminatory" law would further crimp freedoms for civil society under Museveni, whose rule has become increasingly authoritarian since he took power in 1986. US President Joe Biden as well as the European Union and UN chief Antonio Guterres have also slammed the legislation, warning that foreign aid and investment for Uganda could be jeopardised unless the law is repealed. In 2014, international donors slashed aid to Uganda after Museveni approved a bill that sought to impose life imprisonment for homosexual relations, which was later overturned. top videos But the latest anti-gay law has enjoyed broad support in the conservative country, where lawmakers have defended the measures as a necessary bulwark against Western immorality. President Museveni urged Ugandans to remain firm, pointing out that the issue of homosexuality is a serious one that concerns the human race," his office said in the statement. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will meet US President Joe Biden in Washington next week for talks, Downing Street announced on Tuesday. Biden invited Sunak to the White House when the British leader was in San Diego in March for the launch of a nuclear submarine deal with Australia. Next weeks meeting will build on talks the pair have had about closer cooperation on economic challenges such as supply chain security and net zero transition. It will also be an opportunity to discuss issues including sustaining our support for Ukraine," Sunaks official spokesman told reporters in London. Sunak has carried on Boris Johnsons staunch support for Kyiv since Russias invasion last year, announcing the supply of long-range missiles. Biden followed up by supporting the provision of advanced F-16 fighter jets for Ukraine at the recent G7 leaders summit in Japan. Overshadowing the talks will be the unresolved issue of a free-trade deal between the two countries, which London sees as a key prize since leaving the EU. Sunaks spokesman said that was not on the agenda. The UK has already signed trade agreements with North Carolina, South Carolina and Indiana. It is also seeking closer trading partnerships with US powerhouses California and Texas, and is in discussions with Utah and Oklahoma. Before the G7, Sunak last met Biden when the US leader visited Northern Ireland for the 25th anniversary of the 1998 peace deal. top videos Biden has criticised the UK for its stance on post-Brexit trading rules in Northern Ireland, warning it could undermine the hard-fought peace. Sunak, who hosted Bidens wife Jill at a Downing Street coronation tea-party, is expected to be at Julys NATO leaders summit with the US president. The Pakistani diaspora has launched a campaign in United States against atrocities by the State, highlighting forced disappearances, death of democracy and custodial torture. The campaign called Pakistan Under Siege has been floated by overseas supporters of Pakistans Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) party with the slogan Say No to State Violence. The campaign will be launched in all Western countries to highlight human rights abuses and fascism in Pakistan. The campaign will continue for a month and under it, several advertisements highlighting the violence will be beamed on trucks hired by the community and supporters. The tag #PakistanUnderSiege is also trending on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to highlight the current political turmoil and human rights issues in Pakistan. Indias neighbour has been in the throes of a political turmoil since former prime minister Imran Khans brief arrest this month sparked days of street protests freighted with anger at the powerful army perceived to have orchestrated his downfall. Islamabad has labelled the violence anti-state", justifying huge roundups and the revival of army courts to try civilians who targeted government and military buildings. Rights monitors said authorities have detained thousands of supporters of Khans PTI party. Since he was ousted from office, 70-year-old Khan has waged an unprecedented campaign of defiance against the powerful military establishment. He accuses the top brass of orchestrating his downfall and even plotting a November assassination attempt in which he was shot in the leg, allegations that the army denies. top videos His arrest on graft charges at the Islamabad High Court came just hours after he repeated the claim and was seen by his party as a bid to quash support ahead of elections due no later than October. (With AFP inputs) A woman who accused Joe Biden during the 2020 presidential race of sexual assault appeared Tuesday in Moscow, where she said she was asking President Vladimir Putin for Russian citizenship. Tara Reade, who worked in Bidens congressional office for a short period in 1993, said she wanted to stay in Russia after a Republican lawmaker told her she was in physical danger. Reade, 59, said in a streamed interview with the Sputnik media group that she had arrived in Russia as a vacationer. However, she said, When I got off the plane in Moscow, for the first time in a very long time I felt safe, and I felt heard and felt respected." Reade sparked headlines in early 2020 by claiming that then-senator Biden sexually assaulted her in a Capitol Hill corridor in August 1993, when she was 29. Her accusation came just as Biden was ramping up his campaign against incumbent president Donald Trump, who himself has faced accusations of sexual abuse and rape. Biden categorically denied her claim. It is not true. Im saying unequivocally it never, never happened," he said. Reade said she filed a complaint after the alleged incident, but no record of it has been found. But a 1996 court document records her ex-husband mentioning that she had complained of sexual harassment while working in Bidens office. It is not clear if her allegations have ever been formally investigated. Reade, who called herself a geopolitical analyst, said in the Sputnik interview that after making her allegations public in 2020, she was threatened with prison, her life was threatened, and she was called a Russian agent. Sitting alongside Maria Butina, a Russian lawmaker who was arrested and imprisoned in Washington in 2018 as an alleged spy, Reade told the interviewer she has always loved Russia." I do not see Russia as an enemy nor do many of my fellow American citizens," she said. She had one large" request. top videos Id like to apply for citizenship in Russia, from the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin," she said. I do promise to be a good citizen," she said, adding that she also wants to hold onto her US citizenship. The process of normalization of Azerbaijani- Armenian relations has intensified over the past month, which is welcomed by the EU. According to Azernews, this was stated by the official representative of the foreign policy service of the European Union, Peter Stano. "The EU believes it is important to maintain this historic momentum and avoid steps, including hostile rhetoric, that could jeopardize the peace process," he said. Stano recalled that after negotiations on a peace treaty held in the US earlier in May, a meeting of leaders was convened in Brussels on May 14. Another meeting is scheduled for June 1 in Chisinau. In addition, the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia held a meeting in Moscow. During the Brussels meeting, considerable attention was paid to key topics, including border issues, communications, and humanitarian issues. Subsequently, the leaders publicly reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the 1991 Almaty Declaration. As work continues on these sensitive issues, it is important to take steps to build confidence, act in good faith and show leadership to reach solutions to all issues related to comprehensive normalization. Despite the complex history of the conflict and past grievances, all issues must be resolved exclusively by peaceful means, through dialogue. The EU is committed to supporting the parties in this endeavor," he added. Dutch murderer Joran van der Sloot was "severely beaten" during a fight between gangs in the Peruvian prison where he is awaiting extradition to the US, his lawyer says. "It was a fight between prisoners. I don't know who assaulted Joran," lawyer Maximo Altez tells CBS. Altez disclosed the injuries to Van der Sloot on Tuesday, May 3013 years to the day after Van der Sloot killed 21-year-old Stephany Flores and 18 years to the day since Natalee Holloway was last seen alive. Van der Sloot is serving a 28-year-sentence at Peru's Challapalca Prison for the murder of Flores. Van der Sloot has long been considered the prime suspect in the disappearance of Holloway, an 18-year-old from Alabama who vanished while on a class trip to the Caribbean island of Aruba. She was last seen leaving a nightclub with Van der Sloot and two other men. He is being temporarily extradited to the US to face charges that he tried to extort money from Holloway's family with promises that he could lead them to her body. Altez tells NBC that Van der Sloot, against his advice, has decided not to fight extradition. The lawyer says no extradition date has been set yet but only a few "administrative issues," including a health check and travel arrangements, need to be resolved before his client can be sent to Alabama. (Read more Joran Van der Sloot stories.) NATO will send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests after clashes with ethnic Serbs there left 30 international soldiers wounded, the alliance announced Tuesday. The latest violence in the region has stirred fear of a renewal of the 1998-99 conflict in Kosovo that claimed more than 10,000 lives, left more than 1 million people homeless and resulted in a NATO peacekeeping mission that has lasted nearly a quarter of a century, the AP reports. The clashes grew out of a confrontation that unfolded last week after ethnic Albanian officials elected in votes overwhelmingly boycotted by Serbs entered municipal buildings to take office. When Serbs tried to block them, Kosovo police fired tear gas to disperse the crowd. More violence followed on Monday when Serbs attempted to enter the municipal offices in Zvecan, 28 miles north of the capital, Pristina, and clashed with police and NATO peacekeepers. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said an additional reserve battalion would be put on high readiness in case additional troops are needed. "These are prudent steps," said Stoltenberg. The United States and most European Union nations have recognized Kosovo's independence from Serbia while Russia and China have sided with Belgrade, which did not recognize the former Serbian province's declaration of independence in 2008. The NATO-led peacekeeping mission in the region is known as KFOR and currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. A statement issued Tuesday by KFOR said 30 soldiers11 Italians and 19 Hungarianswere hurt in Monday's unrest, with injuries including fractures and burns from improvised explosive incendiary devices. Three Hungarian soldiers were wounded by the use of firearms," but their injuries were not life-threatening, the statement added. Serb officials said 52 people were injured, three of them seriously. Four protesters were detained, according to Kosovo police. (Read more Kosovo stories.) A 14-year-old boy was fatally shot Sunday by the owner of a gas station and convenience store in South Carolina who wrongly believed he had been shoplifting, authorities say. Rick Chow, 58, has been charged with murder in death of Cyrus Carmack-Belton, NBC reports. Police say Chow chased the teen and shot him in the back after a confrontation at Chow's Xpress Mart Shell station in Columbia around 8pm. Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott said Carmack-Belton fled the store after an argument with Chow and Chow's son. Lott said Chow shot the teen after his son told him he had a gun. A firearm was found next to Carmack-Belton's body, but there is no evidence he pointed it at Chow or his son, the sheriff said. Richland County Coroner Nadia Rutherford said the teen was shot while he was running, the AP reports. "I was at the autopsy. I looked at his body inside and outside," she told a crowd at the gas station Monday. "He had one shot to the back, which is why Mr. Chow is being charged with murder." Lott said Chow wrongly thought the teen had stolen four bottles of water from a coolerbut "even if he had done that ... that's not something you shoot anybody over, much less a 14-year-old." The sheriff and the coroner appealed for calm from the community Monday, but windows at the store were broken Monday night and thousands of dollars in merchandise was stolen, WIS reports. The AP reports that graffiti including the words "Cyrus" and "14" covered the walls and a sign taped to the door said, " Water or Life? Which means more?" Lott said Tuesday that deputies are now watching over the property. (Read more South Carolina stories.) North Korea said its attempt to put the countrys first spy satellite into orbit failed Wednesday, an apparent embarrassment to leader Kim Jong Un over his push to boost his military capability in the protracted security tensions with the United States and South Korea. A statement published in state media said the rocket carrying the satellite crashed into waters off the Korean Peninsulas western coast after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages. It said scientists were examining the cause of the failure. The rocket was launched about 6:30am from the northwestern Tongchang-ri area, where North Koreas main space launch center is located, the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. South Koreas military said the rocket had "an abnormal flight" before it fell in the waters. It also said it bolstered its military readiness in close coordination with the United States. Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that no object was believed to have reached space. The North Korean launch had prompted brief evacuation orders in South Korea and Japan. Seoul issued alerts over public speakers and cellphone text messages telling residents to prepare for evacuation. But there were no reports of damages or major disruption and the city later lifted the alert. The Japanese government activated a missile warning system for its Okinawa prefecture in southwestern Japan, believed to be in the path of the rocket, the AP reports. "Please evacuate into buildings or underground," the alert said. Authorities later lifted the calls for evacuation. A top North Korean official had said Tuesday that the country needed a space-based reconnaissance system to counter escalating security threats from South Korea and the United States. The US strongly condemned North Korea for the launch, which used ballistic missile technology in violation of UN Security Council resolutions. (Read more North Korea stories.) Authorities think they know who shot and killed a New Jersey councilwoman in February, though it seems they still don't know why she was slain. Rashid Ali Bynum, 28, of Portsmouth, Va., was arrested Tuesday and charged with murdering Eunice Dwumfour, who was 30. Prosecutors say Dwumfour had a number associated with Bynum as one of her cellphone contacts, listed as "FCF," an abbreviation for Fire Congress Fellowship, a Bible study group that is affiliated with Dwumfours church, Champions Royal Assembly in Newark, NJ. Bynum was a member of FCF and Dwumfour is listed in federal tax filings as the group's longtime treasurer. The fellowship's office is listed as a New Jersey address just two minutes from where Dwumfour was fatally shot while in her car outside the complex where she lived, the New York Times reports. Prosecutors say evidence includes surveillance video from the scene, plus toll information and cellphone location data indicating Bynum drove from Virginia to New Jersey and back. But authorities have not offered any possible motives, and a lawyer for Dwumfour's family says that while they're glad a suspect has been caught, they have no idea why he allegedly did what he did: "Theyre really struggling with the why," the lawyer says. Authorities say Bynum had searched for information on the church and the area where Dwumfour lived on the day she was slain, as well as gun information, ABC News reports. Dwumfour, a Republican whose family is from Ghana, was the first Black person elected to office in Sayreville. She had an 11-year-old daughter and had recently married a leader of her church, which was an offshoot congregation of a Nigerian megachurch. (Read more New Jersey stories.) Three children died in hot cars over the past week, pushing the number of such deaths in 2023 to double the number over the same time period in 2022, NBC News reports. (This seminal 2009 article explains how such tragedies can happen accidentally, more easily than you might think.) The heartbreaking details: Puyallup, Washington: A 1-year-old was left in a car when the child's foster mother arrived at work at a hospital around 8am; authorities say she was distracted and forgot the toddler was in the backseat until she got back in the car around 5pm, KING 5 reports. Though the outside temperature was in the low 70s, inside the car it was 110 degrees, CNN reports. While the woman rushed the child into the hospital, the child did not survive. Houston, Texas: Two siblings, ages 2 and 4, were playing outside their home Friday when an adult found them inside a car. "We dont know how long they were in there, but family members began looking and found them in the car," a police commander says, per Fox 26. Temperatures were in the 80s at the time. The 4-year-old boy was pronounced dead after being rushed to a hospital, but his sister was expected to recover. Two siblings, ages 2 and 4, were playing outside their home Friday when an adult found them inside a car. "We dont know how long they were in there, but family members began looking and found them in the car," a police commander says, per Fox 26. Temperatures were in the 80s at the time. The 4-year-old boy was pronounced dead after being rushed to a hospital, but his sister was expected to recover. Palm Bay, Florida: An 11-month-old was discovered unresponsive in a car after having been left there for three hours; the infant's parents were attending church services at the time, and the details of the incident are not yet clear, but WESH reports it appears to have been accidental. No charges have been filed in any of the deaths, and authorities say the investigations are ongoing. (Read more child dies in hot car stories.) The James Beard Awards are known as "the Oscars of the food world," where a win can catapult a chef's career. That's why Sam Fore, owner of pop-up restaurant Tuk Tuk in Lexington, Kentucky, was delighted to be named as a 2023 finalist for the "best chef: Southeast" honorat least until the "interrogation." Per the New York Times, the James Beard Foundation is investigating chefs as part of a process created in 2021 "to make the awards more equitable and diverse, and to ensure that chefs with troubling histories are not honored." Yet "that process has troubles of its own." Anyone can accuse nominees of ethics violations using an anonymous tip line. A committee then investigates with complete secrecy. Not even judges know what happens behind those doors. Fore says she was interrogated by private investigators after someone accused her of "targeted harassment" and "bullying" in social media posts associated with her advocacy for victims of sexual violence. Some of these were "vague tweets" about unnamed people, whom the investigators were unable to identify, yet they still seemed to think the posts amounted to "targeted harassment," Fore says. Less than a week before the June 5 awards ceremony, Fore doesn't know if she's still in the running. But at least one chef has been disqualified from the competition. Tim Hontzas of Johnny's in Homewood, Alabama, says JBF privately informed him on May 10 that he was out of the running for the best chef of the South, though his name remains on the ballot and gala program. Hontzas says he was questioned about yelling at work. He didn't refute the claims but denied that they amounted to an ethics violation. A former employee disagrees, telling the Times that Hontzas threw plates at her head, but other chefs stand by Hontzas. John Currence criticized JBF's "skewed reasoning and fake virtue-signaling" while sharing a photo of his 2009 Beard Award smashed with a brick, per Bon Appetit. Vishwesh Bhatt, who won in the "best chef: South" category in 2019, showed off an empty wall where his award had hung. He was one of three judges to resign while questioning the foundation's sweeping confidentiality. According to Bon Appetit, the case has only "resurfaced familiar criticism of JBF's opaque and generally confusing procedures" following years of scandal. More on that here. (Read more James Beard Awards stories.) Tara Reade has defected to Russia. The woman who accuses President Biden of sexually assaulting her when she worked in his Senate office in 1993 revealed the move in a Tuesday news conference in Moscow that "lasted several hours," CNN reports. Reade spoke with Russian state media outlets while seated next to convicted Russian spy Maria Butina, now a member of Russian parliament allied with President Vladimir Putin. Reade previously praised Putin onlinea fact that surfaced when she went public with her accusation against Biden in 2020. She drew renewed attention this month when she tweeted that she would "testify under oath in Congress if asked to do so and tell what happened and what I know." "If something happens to me, all roads lead to Joe Biden," Reade wrote in the May 7 tweet, claiming the Justice Department and FBI were involved in "intimidation and bullying to silence me." Speaking Tuesday, the 59-year-old said she was seeking Russian citizenship due to death threats related to her tweet. "I just didn't want to walk home and walk into a cage or be killed, which is basically my two choices," she said, per the Guardian. In the lead-up to the 2024 election, where "there's so much at stake," Reade said, "I'm almost better off here and just being safe." "When I got off the plane in Moscow, for the first time in a very long time I felt safe, and I felt heard, and I felt respected," she continued, per CNN. She offered appreciation to "Maria and everyone who's been giving me [protection]." Butina said she would ask Putin to "fast-track" Reade's citizenship request, per CNN. Reade said she hoped to be able to live in Russia and the US. "But it may be that I only live in this place and that's OK," she said. "I am enjoying my time in Moscow, and I feel very at home." She claimed "this illusion of Russia as an enemy is propagated by a few Washington elites who are determined to cause problems" and apologized "to my Russian brothers and sisters ... that American elites are choosing to have such an aggressive stance." (Biden denies that he digitally penetrated Reade. No former staffers have corroborated the allegation, though others close to Reade have.) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis stepped into Iowa on Tuesday for the first time as a Republican presidential candidate and stepped up to former President Trump, vowing to "fight back" against Trump as the GOP's 2024 campaign enters a new phase. Until now, the 44-year-old Republican governor whose slogan is "Never Back Down" had largely avoided any direct confrontation with Trump, his chief Republican rival, who has in turn unleashed a torrent of fierce attacks against DeSantis for much of the year. DeSantis was initially cautious while addressing an energetic crowd of roughly 500 gathered inside a suburban Des Moines church. But speaking to reporters afterward, he pushed back against Trump in a way he hadn't before on the national stage, per the AP. "I'm going to fight back," he declared, taking aim at Trump's recent criticism of his leadership during the pandemic. "Hell, his whole family moved to Florida under my governorship. Are you kidding me?" He accused Trump of essentially abandoning "America First" principles on immigration, supporting pandemic-related lockdowns, and generally having "moved left" on key issues. DeSantis' comments came six days after a stumbling Twitter campaign launch that raised questions about his readiness for a national race. Beyond the glitchy launch, DeSantis opens his campaign looking up at Trump in the polls amid persistent questions about the Florida governor's ability to connect with voters in person. Trump and his allies unleashed a fresh round of anti-DeSantis attacks on Tuesday as well. The former president shared new polls on social media noting that he's the heavy favorite in the GOP primary. He also took aim at DeSantis' leadership during the pandemic, writing that Florida was "third WORST State in Deaths by Covid." "So why do they say that DeSanctus did a good job? New York had fewer deaths!" Trump wrote on his social media platform. At the same time, a pro-Trump super PAC was running ads on Iowa television accusing DeSantis of wanting to raise taxes, an accusation DeSantis has denied. The feud will have an opportunity to play in public as the week progresses, with both men courting voters in key states on the presidential primary calendar. DeSantis' early state blitz continues with four Iowa stops scheduled for Wednesday. Trump, who was already scheduled to be in Iowa on Thursday, added a couple of stops in the state to his schedule for Wednesday, ensuring he'd overlap with DeSantis for a time. It's unclear whether Republican primary voters will like the sharpening tone between the two Republican heavyweights. Kim Riesberg, 59, who attended DeSantis' campaign kickoff in Clive with her husband, said she voted for Trump in 2016 and in 2020, but isn't necessarily committed to him this time around. DeSantis is a "little softer," said Riesberg, of Dallas Center, Iowa. And "more appealing to the masses." Since Trump and DeSantis are competing for the same job, she understands it might be a bitter race. But "at some point, I would like to see them on the same team." (Read more Ron DeSantis stories.) Chinese citizens claiming to be lost tourists have been caught trying to access military facilities in Alaska in recent years as part of a suspected spy operation that appears to extend well beyond the Last Frontier, USA Today reports. Multiple US soldiers tell the outlet of Chinese attempts to learn about military capabilities by accessing military bases in the state, which has become key to homeland defense and to efforts to defend US interests in the Arctic. They describe one incident when a vehicle carrying Chinese citizens and a drone drove through a security checkpoint at Fairbanks' Fort Wainwright, with its inhabitants later claiming they were lost tourists. It's an explanation offered before. When a 20-year-old Chinese exchange student who'd undergone military training in China was caught with illegal photos of Florida's Naval Air Station Key West in September 2018, the man found with a belt buckle that referenced China's Interior Ministry allegedly claimed he had traveled from New Jersey to "see the sights" but become "lost," per NBC News. Over the next two years, three other Chinese students were arrested for taking photos of the same base. Meanwhile, two Chinese women were accused of trespassing at then-President Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort, including one who claimed she paid a guide to take her to sights and didn't know what Mar-a-Lago was. FBI Director Christopher Wray has described Chinese espionage as the agency's "top counterintelligence priority." Asked about Chinese spying during a recent visit to Alaska, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks acknowledged "the possibility of intrusion on our installations" but spoke vaguely of efforts to ensure they are "protected from threats." "We take a lot of measures to do that," she said, per USA Today. Still, the outlet raises the possibility that spies could leave behind sensors capable of detecting sensitive communications in Alaska, whose "remoteness and savage winter cold, once viewed as protective barriers, provide less security for prying eyes." (Read more Chinese spies stories.) Norway's sovereign wealth fund, the world's biggest, will from now on vote against the nomination of all-male boards in Japanese companies, a senior fund official said Tuesday. In a bid to promote diversity and gender equality, the fund, currently worth more than 15 trillion kroner ($1.34 trillion), already rejects nominations to boards for companies in Europe and North America that do not include at least two women. Japan, where the business world has long been very male-dominated, had been given a grace period. "Of the developed markets, we hadn't started to vote against companies in Japan, because they were so far behind that we really would have hit a large number of companies," Carine Smith Ihenacho, head of governance and compliance at the fund, told AFP. In 2021, the fund gave Japanese companies "two years to improve," she added. ...continue reading - Q1 Revenue up 12% YoY to $22.1 Million - - Q1 Adjusted EBITDA up 56% YoY to $9.7 Million, with Cash from Operations up 20% YoY to $5.1 Million - MIAMI, May 31, 2023 /CNW/ - Cansortium Inc. (CSE: TIUM.U) (OTCQX: CNTMF) ("Cansortium" or the "Company"), a vertically-integrated, multi-state cannabis company operating under the FLUENT brand, today announced financial and operating results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2023. Unless otherwise indicated, all monetary results are presented in U.S. dollars. "We are pleased to once again report double-digit revenue growth and adjusted EBITDA margin expansion, coupled with another period of strong cash flow generation in the face of broader industry challenges," said CEO Robert Beasley. "Our new store openings in Florida, continually improving our cultivation and increasing the mix of high-THC products are all contributing to our growth and profitability improvements in the state." "In Pennsylvania, we have worked to optimize our inventory management while adding new products to shelves, which has led to increased sales in the state without any new store openings. And in Texas, although we are disappointed with the outcome of the proposed decriminalization and medical program expansion bills, we continue to believe the growth opportunity in Texas is exceptional, similar to the Florida market seven years ago. We are gaining ground in Texas and capturing market share, even without regulatory reform." "Looking ahead, we plan to continue driving growth and profitability through new store openings, improved cultivation, operating efficiencies and inventory optimization as we execute our strategy and trend toward another year of strong growth and cash flow generation." Q1 2023 Financial Highlights (vs. Q1 2022) Revenue increased 12% to $22.1 million compared to $19.7 million . compared to . Florida revenue increased 9.7% to $18.2 million compared to $16.6 million . revenue increased 9.7% to compared to . Adjusted gross profit 1 increased 22% to $14.1 million or 63.9% of revenue, compared to $11.5 million or 58.6% of revenue. increased 22% to or 63.9% of revenue, compared to or 58.6% of revenue. Adjusted EBITDA increased 56% to $9.7 million compared to $6.2 million . compared to . Cash flow from operations improved 20% to $5.1 million compared to $4.3 million . compared to . At March 31, 2023 the Company had approximately $9.5 million of cash and cash equivalents and $57.9 million of total debt, with approximately 296 million shares outstanding. Recent Operational Highlights In Florida , Cansortium currently operates 31 stores and anticipates opening an additional 3-5 new stores by the end of 2023. Three of these are under contract and in the construction phase. , Cansortium currently operates 31 stores and anticipates opening an additional 3-5 new stores by the end of 2023. Three of these are under contract and in the construction phase. In Florida , Cansortium launched its new Dark Chocolate Bar, made with FLUENT's high quality cannabis extract and Caraibe 66% chocolate from Valrhona, the legendary French chocolatier. , Cansortium launched its new Dark Chocolate Bar, made with FLUENT's high quality cannabis extract and Caraibe 66% chocolate from Valrhona, the legendary French chocolatier. Entered into an agreement, subject to financing, to acquire a Florida property that will become a new 70k square foot cultivation facility and 2.5-acre greenhouse. property that will become a new square foot cultivation facility and 2.5-acre greenhouse. The Company announced that it plans to move its headquarters from Miami to Tampa, Florida , and will create more than 30 new jobs in administration, finance, human resources, marketing, sales, operations and other key roles. to , and will create more than 30 new jobs in administration, finance, human resources, marketing, sales, operations and other key roles. In Pennsylvania , the Company has implemented a more targeted inventory management strategy, which has led to organic sales growth in the state. , the Company has implemented a more targeted inventory management strategy, which has led to organic sales growth in the state. In Texas , the Company continued to make progress building out its operational footprint and is working to expand its delivery capabilities to support patient populations in Houston and Austin . ______________________ 1 Adjusted gross profit is a non-IFRS financial measure that does not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The Company calculates adjusted gross profit from gross profit plus (minus) the changes in fair value of biological assets, as presented in the consolidated statement of operations. Conference Call The Company will host a conference call and live audio webcast today at 4:30 p.m. Eastern time to discuss its financial and operational results, followed by a question-and-answer period. Interested parties may submit questions to the Company prior to the call by emailing [email protected]. Date: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 Time: 4:30 p.m. Eastern time Toll-free dial-in number: (800) 319-4610 International dial-in number: (604) 638-5340 Conference ID: 10021974 Link: Cansortium Conference Call Please call the conference telephone number 5-10 minutes prior to the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact Elevate IR at (720) 330-2829. The conference call will also be available for replay via the News & Events section of the Company's investor relations website at https://investors.getFLUENT.com/. About Cansortium Inc. Cansortium is a vertically-integrated cannabis company with licenses and operations in Florida, Pennsylvania and Texas. The Company operates under the FLUENT brand and is dedicated to being one of the highest quality cannabis companies for the communities it serves. This is driven by Cansortium's unrelenting commitment to operational excellence in cultivation, production, distribution and retail. The Company is headquartered in Miami, Florida. Cansortium Inc.'s common shares trade on the CSE under the symbol "TIUM.U" and on the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol "CNTMF". For more information about the Company, please visit www.getFLUENT.com. Forward-Looking Information Certain information in this news release may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and may also contain statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, but not necessarily in all cases, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "targets", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "an opportunity exists", "is positioned", "estimates", "intends", "assumes", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate" or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "will" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances contain forward-looking information. Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts but instead represent the Company's expectations, estimates, and projections regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the Company's control. Forward-looking information is necessarily based on many opinions, assumptions, and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company as of the date of this news release, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to the factors described in the public documents of the Company available at www.sedar.com. These factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect the Company; however, these factors should be considered carefully. There can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update or alter statements containing any forward-looking information, or the factors or assumptions underlying them, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. For further information: www.getFLUENT.com. Company Contact Robert Beasley, CEO (850) 972-8077 investors.getFLUENT.com Investor Relations Contact Sean Mansouri, CFA Elevate IR (720) 330-2829 [email protected] Media Contact Patrick Maddox (501) 680-5220 [email protected] CANSORTIUM INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION As of March 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 (USD '000) March 31, 2023 December 31, 2022 Assets Current assets Cash $ 9,468 $ 8,359 Trade receivable 33 28 Inventory, net 7,738 8,973 Biological assets 158 996 Investment held for sale - - Prepaid expenses and other current assets 525 883 Total current assets 17,922 19,239 Property and equipment, net 32,145 31,743 Intangible assets, net 93,908 94,291 Right-of-use assets, net 30,075 30,464 Deposit - - Goodwill 1,526 1,526 Other assets 808 768 Total assets $ 176,384 $ 178,031 Liabilities Current liabilities Trade payable 7,529 6,931 Accrued liabilities 4,572 5,534 Income taxes payable 17,063 13,952 Derivative liabilities 8,954 8,676 Current portion of notes payable 531 741 Current portion of lease obligations 2,486 2,123 Total current liabilities 41,134 37,957 Liabilities held for sale - - - - Notes payable 57,912 56,969 Lease obligations 33,587 33,922 Deferred tax liability 19,092 20,290 Other long-term liabilities 1,250 1,333 Total liabilities $ 152,975 $ 150,471 Shareholders' equity Share capital 183,414 180,954 Share-based compensation reserve 6,471 6,395 Equity conversion feature 6,677 6,677 Warrants 29,634 28,939 Accumulated deficit (202,454) (195,071) Foreign currency translation reserve (334) (334) Total shareholders' equity attributable to Cansortium Inc. shareholders 38,313 38,313 Total shareholders' equity 23,409 27,560 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 176,384 $ 178,031 CANSORTIUM INC. STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2023 AND 2022 For the three months ended March 31, 2023 2022 Revenue, net of discounts $ 22,056 $ 19,712 Cost of goods sold 7,966 8,166 Gross profit before fair value adjustments 14,090 11,546 Fair value adjustments on inventory sold (1,520) (6,824) Unrealized (loss) gain on changes in fair value of biological assets (5,057) 1,198 Gross profit 7,513 5,920 Expenses General and administrative 2,312 2,841 Share-based compensation 238 100 Sales and marketing 3,998 4,087 Depreciation and amortization 1,848 1,664 Total expenses 8,396 8,692 Income (loss) from operations (883) (2,772) Other expense (income) Finance costs, net 4,249 3,657 Loss (gain) on change in fair value of derivative liability 278 1,702 Private Placement issuance expense - - Loss on debt settlement - - Loss on disposal of assets 70 - Loss from termination of a contract (78) - Other expense (income) 67 (2) Total other expense 4,586 5,357 Loss before income taxes (5,469) (8,129) Income tax expense 1,914 2,013 Net loss from continuing operations (7,383) (10,142) Net loss from discontinued operations - 2 Net loss $ (7,383) $ (10,144) Other comprehensive gain (loss) that may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent years Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations and reporting currency - 24 Comprehensive loss $ (7,383) $ (10,120) Net loss per share Basic and diluted - continuing operations $ (0.03) $ (0.04) Weighted average number of shares Basic number of shares 276,556,965 252,276,742 Diluted number of shares 325,942,276 307,365,805 CANSORTIUM INC. STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD '000) For the thee months ended March 31, 2023 2022 Operating activities Net loss from continuing operations $ (7,383) $ (10,142) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Unrealized gain (loss) on changes in fair value of biological assets 5,057 (1,198) Realized (loss) gain on changes in fair value of biological assets 1,520 6,824 Share-based compensation 238 100 Depreciation and amortization 3,717 2,986 Accretion and interest of convertible debentures 132 3,057 Accretion and interest of term loan 3,086 - Interest income on notes receivable - (71) Interest of equipment loan 8 - Loss on disposal of assets 70 - Change in fair market value of derivative 278 1,702 Interest on lease liabilities 1,021 655 Deferred tax expense (1,198) (714) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Trade receivable (5) 1 Inventory 119 (309) Biological assets (4,566) (4,271) Prepaid expenses and other current assets 358 930 Right of Use Assets/Liabilities 67 - Other assets (39) 83 Trade payable 598 415 Accrued liabilities (963) 1,513 Other long-term liabilities (83) - Income taxes payable 3,111 2,726 Net cash provided by continuing operating activities 5,144 4,287 Net cash used in dicontinuing operating activities - 2 Net cash provided by operating activities 5,144 4,289 Investing activities Purchases of property and equipment (2,949) (2,353) Purchase of intangible assets - - Payment of notes receivable - 92 Advances for notes receivable - (30) Net cash used in continuing investing activities (2,949) (2,291) Net cash provided by discontinued investing activities Net cash used in investing activities (2,949) (2,291) Financing activities Net proceeds from issuance of shares and warrants 2,993 - Payment of lease obligations (1,585) (1,254) Exercise of Options - 135 Issuance of shares for note payable extension - Principal repayments of notes payable (2,494) (2,224) Net cash (used in) provided by continuing financing activities (1,086) (3,343) Net cash provided by discountinued financing activities - Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (1,086) (3,343) Effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents - 24 Net (decrease) increase in cash 1,109 (1,323) Cash, beginning of period 8,359 9,024 Cash, end of period 9,468 7,701 Cansortium Inc. Adjusted EBITDA Calculation (USD '000) Three months ended March 31, March 31, Variance 2023 2022 Net loss $ (7,383) $ (10,144) $ 2,761 Finance costs, net 4,249 3,657 592 Income taxes 1,914 2,013 (99) Depreciation and amortization 3,774 3,259 515 EBITDA $ 2,554 $ (1,215) $ 3,769 Three months ended March 31, 2023 March 31, 2022 Variance EBITDA $ 2,554 $ (1,215) $ 3,769 Change in fair value of biological assets 6,577 5,626 951 Change in fair market value of derivative 278 1,702 (1,424) Gain on termination of a contract (78) - (78) Share-based compensation 238 100 138 Discontinued operations - 2 (2) Loss on disposal of assets 70 - 70 Other non-recurring expense/(income) 67 - 67 Adjusted EBITDA $ 9,706 $ 6,215 $ 3,491 SOURCE Cansortium Inc Skip partners with Canada's Drag Race's Lemon to create an exclusive sandwich with Grandma Loves You to be handed out to consumers for free at Glad Day Bookshop on June 2 TORONTO, May 29, 2023 /CNW/ - SkipTheDishes, Canada's largest food delivery network has been werking on something special to give back to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community! This Pride Month, Skip has joined forces with zesty Canadian Drag Superstar and viral sensation Lemon , of Canada's Drag Race, and local restaurant favourite Grandma Loves You , to curate an exclusive sandwich available all month long with $1 from every six-inch and $2 from every footlong sub going to Friends of Ruby , a welcoming space in Toronto for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth (aged 16-29) dedicated to their progressive well-being through mental health services, social services, and housing. To top it all off, customers can enjoy $0 delivery from Grandma Loves You with a minimum order for a limited time - talk about a slay. Zestie Bestie Caesar Sub (CNW Group/SkipTheDishes) Lemon (CNW Group/SkipTheDishes) "Pride Month is such an exciting time with so many celebrations. I know how easy it is to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of it all - so what better way to keep the party going than with convenient and affordable eats from Skip!" says Lemon. "Knowing this initiative will do so much more than satisfy cravings, and will help Friends of Ruby to provide programs and services to youth in need - it was a no brainer!" Zesties - be sweet, not sour - consumers can Come Through to try the sandwich for free on Friday, June 2, 2023 at Glad Day Bookshop from 11am until 4pm (while quantities last). Starting June 1st, the limited-edition custom sandwich will also be available for purchase through the Skip app all month long! Talk about the ultimate serve. Event Details: Date: Friday, June 2nd, 2023 Location: Glad Day Bookshop, 499 Church St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2C6 M4Y 2C6 Time: 11am - 4pm (or while quantities last) In true Lemon style, the sandwich is a nod to her signature flavour. The Zestie Bestie Caesar Sub is piled higher than your best pair of heels, topped with avocado, freshly squeezed lemon caesar dressing, lettuce, hot peppers, crispy onion, and fresh parmesan. The Zestie Bestie Caesar Sub will be available exclusively through Grandma Loves You on Skip for pick-up or $0 delivery with a minimum order for the month of June. In addition to $2 from every 12-inch and $1 from every 6-inch sub sold throughout June going to Friends of Ruby thanks to Grandma Loves You, Skip will also be donating $20,000 to Friends of Ruby to help vulnerable youth in our communities feel seen and supported through access to mental health services, practical supports, and housing. "As we celebrate Pride Month, we're excited to deliver so much more than great delivery through this partnership," says Melanie Fatouros-Richardson, Head of Communications at Skip. "Skip is a long-standing supporter of 2SLGBTQIA+ organisations working to improve inclusion and equality from coast to coast, and we're proud to deepen our commitment to increasing visibility and resources for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. We're always looking for new and meaningful ways to give back to the communities we serve and are proud to help support the work Friends of Ruby is doing for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in need." About Skip SkipTheDishes is part of Just Eat Takeaway.com, a leading global online food delivery marketplace. SkipTheDishes connects millions of customers with over 50,000 Restaurant Partners in Canada. About Friends of Ruby Friends of Ruby is dedicated to the progressive well-being of 2SLGBQTIA+ youth (aged 16-29) through mental health & wellness support, case management and practical support services, social services, and housing. - Our vision is a world where all Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual young people feel validated, involved, and empowered to lead healthier lives. Our approach is comprehensive, involving mind, body, and community. We provide youth with resources related to their sexuality & gender identity, sexual health, social connections, transgender supports, food & basic needs, housing, income support, advocacy, life skills, healthcare, legal support, employment & planning. Learn more about Friends of Ruby at friendsofruby.ca. SOURCE SkipTheDishes For further information: SkipTheDishes, E: [email protected] Yann LeCun is VP & Chief AI Scientist at Meta and Silver Professor at NYU affiliated with the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences & the Center for Data Science. After a postdoc in Toronto he joined AT&T Bell Labs in 1988, and AT&T Labs in 1996 as Head of Image Processing Research. He joined NYU as a professor in 2003 and Meta/Facebook in 2013. He is the recipient of the 2018 ACM Turing Award for conceptual and engineering breakthroughs that have made deep neural networks a critical component of computing. The Next Five Years of AI: Hope or Horror: Why does Yann believe it is nonsense that AI is dangerous? Why does Yann think it is crazy to assume that AI will even want to dominate humans? LeCun says AI researchers face palm when they hear Prophecies of Doom There are two ways to modify the statistics of the [AI] training data. You train them on possibly using human feedback for you know specific answers and the second one is you change the prompt. You cannot directly control the system. This is not the type of systems that we will give agency. Lecun says that in a few year LLM (Large Language Models) will go away and replaced with systems that will be guidable to desired goals. He thinks the will to dominate and intelligence are separate things. Orangutan do not have a desire to dominate but are intelligent. They are territorial. You make the systems safe by making AI that go for answers and solutions that satisfy objectives. Why does Yann believe digital assistants will rule the world? The AI assistance will be abundant. Everyone will have them. Everyone will become like a leader of a company, where they command more intelligent people. Everyone will demand the AI assistant code, data and systems will be open and transparent. If digital assistants do rule the world, what interface wins? Search? Chat? What happens to Google when digital assistants rule the world? Open Source will dominate over closed systems. AI Assistant will be the interface for accessing the world and the internet. Companies like Meta does use Open systems and will continue to interact with open systems. DALLAS (AP) American Airlines said Wednesday it will appeal a court decision that would force the airline to break up its partnership with JetBlue Airways in the Northeast. American and JetBlue face a late-June deadline to end the agreement in which they coordinate flights and share revenue. The Justice Department sued to block the alliance, and a federal judge ruled last week that the partnership violates antitrust law. We've got a system that allows for appeal, and we are going to do that, American CEO Robert Isom said during an investor conference. In the meantime, we are going to have to work with (the Justice Department), work with JetBlue, to find out exactly what we do in the interim. American could seek a stay of the judge's order while it appeals. The Justice Department declined to comment. Losing the alliance would be a setback for American, which would need to find another way to grow in New York and Boston, where it has retreated over many years in the face of competition from Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. However, the exact cost of losing the Northeast Alliance, as the deal with JetBlue is called, is not clear. American's Chief Financial Officer Devon May said at the same Bernstein conference that the partnership's demise would not have a significant impact on the airline's operating profit margin, but he did not provide a revenue-loss figure. U.S. District Judge Leo Sorokin in Boston ruled that with their partnership, American and JetBlue were replacing full-throated competition with broad cooperation. The judge dismissed the airlines' argument which Isom repeated on Wednesday that the deal helps consumers by creating more competition against Delta and United in New York and Boston. Many of Isom's comments Wednesday dealt with the airline raising its second-quarter profit forecast because of higher revenue and lower fuel costs during the start of the summer travel season than it had predicted in April. The nation's biggest airline said it expects to earn between $1.45 and $1.65 per share, or 25 cents better than its earlier forecast. The numbers exclude certain costs. American did not, however, change its financial outlook for the full year. Savanthi Syth, an airline analyst for Raymond James, said airline revenue will be strong over summer due to vacation travel, but the fall when business flying is a higher share of revenue remains in question. Corporate travel has recovered from the pandemic more slowly than leisure travel. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc., which is based in Forth Worth, Texas, rose 1% on Wednesday. With families out in force on Memorial Day weekend in Connecticut, Maritime Aquarium was in its element and its CEO says that was going to be the case even without any extra kick it may have gotten from Disney's live-action release of "The Little Mermaid" and requests from kids to get another glimpse of a world under the sea. It is not just the Norwalk aquarium getting a lift. As the summer tourism season in Connecticut hits the June lull between Memorial Day and the end of the school year, a new study suggests Connecticut saw an 11 percent jump in tourism spending last year by people traveling an hour or more presumably a significant number from out of state. That pushed tourist spending in Connecticut above the $10 billion threshold for the first time. Tack on spending by people closer to home heading to those same venues, and the tourist economy generated just shy of $17 billion in Connecticut last year, according to Tourism Economics, a Wayne, Pa.-based firm which produces the study biennially for the Connecticut Office of Tourism. "The pandemic is more and more in the rear-view mirror," said Jason Patlis, CEO of Maritime Aquarium. "From the fall through this past weekend, we have seen the highest numbers we have seen in a decade. People are eager to get out." Tourism Economics analyzes hotel reservations and vacation rentals, recreational spending, and restaurant tabs for people who trekked at least 50 miles to their destinations, or stayed overnight otherwise. The study does not distinguish between vacationers and people visiting Connecticut for work purposes. As part of a strategic plan released last year for 2023, the Connecticut Office of Tourism put an emphasis on trying to draw more business meetings and conventions to Connecticut. From $16.4 billion in estimated spending at tourist businesses in 2019, the Connecticut total slid to $11.3 billion in 2020 as many people tabled vacation plans. Overall tourist business spending rose to $15.4 billion in 2021, and then to $17 billion last year for a record total. Since 2021, Connecticut has debuted new or expanded venues and events with regional appeal, to include the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater concert stadium and the Sound on Sound Music Festival that have attracted thousands of people to Bridgeport, and the Westville Music Bowl in New Haven. In Greenwich, The Bruce Museum opened its newest wing in April that doubles its size, and niche attractions have emerged like the new American Mural Project museum in Winsted. U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal and Sen. Chris Murphy continue to press for funding to build a proposed National Coast Guard Museum in New London. And this month, Gov. Ned Lamont suggested the NHL's Arizona Coyotes should consider moving east to the XL Center that once was home ice for the Hartford Whalers. In 2021, 43 percent of people surfing CTVisit.com did so from Connecticut addresses, with 21 percent from New York, 12 percent from Massachusetts, and Rhode Island and New Jersey each generating just 4 percent of the traffic. The Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun resorts remain major draws despite increased competition from other Northeast casinos. Mohegan Sun revenue rose 5 percent in the first quarter from a year earlier, to $226 million as reported two weeks ago by parent Mohegan Gaming. In an economic impact study released last October, Mohegan Sun reported it generated 3.1 million visits from tourists in other states in 2019, along with 2.4 million more by Connecticut residents. In addition to the $992 million it generated on its property that year, Mohegan Sun estimates that visitors spent nearly $83 million at other restaurants, hotels, attractions and stores in Connecticut, with Mystic a big draw with its own aquarium, the Mystic Seaport and downtown shops and restaurants. Back in Norwalk, Maritime Aquarium is preparing to debut its newest exhibit in July, featuring creatures whose ancestors were around at the time of the dinosaurs. Patlis thinks the new-found enthusiasm for experiences has many people wanting to take another look at some of the attractions near where they live, or maybe jog just a little further afield. "The big question is whether this is a post-pandemic bump, or whether this is just the new normal with people wanting to spend money locally and go to local attractions," Patlis said. Liese Klein contributed to this report. Includes prior reporting by John Moritz. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate DAVENPORT, Iowa (AP) One moment Lexus Berry and her wife were rushing toward the door of their fourth-floor apartment, and the next, Quanishia Peach Berry was gone. Their apartment had disappeared into a heap of bricks and steel far below, leaving Lexis Berry running by herself to a stairwell in the teetering building, panicked that she might never see her wife again. The moment that we hit the door, it started to shake and rattle and literally it all just happened in the blink of a second the floors caved in, like collapsed, Lexus Berry said Wednesday. So as the floors were falling, and she was falling four stories down, there were still two stories above her falling and two stories falling above me. It was all crumbling. The six-story building in downtown Davenport partially collapsed just before 5 p.m. Sunday, but it took hours before rescuers found Peach Berry trapped in the rubble and then determined one of her legs would need to be amputated to pull her free. Lexus Berry gave her assent. Doctors removed the leg and rushed her to a hospital, mindful that the remainder of the building could come down at any time. Its definitely something thats like a miracle that shes here, Lexus Berry said. Due to the circumstances, they had to make a judgment call. And thats the best thing for her, honestly, because shes still here. As Peach Berry recovered in the hospital, crews in Davenport puzzled over next steps for the unstable structure, where five residents remained unaccounted for and officials feared at least two of them might be stuck in a mound of debris at the base of the 116-year-old building. Officials have said the building is continuing to shift and they need to bring it down, but they think any effort to find remains in the debris pile could cause the rest of the structure to collapse. Davenport Police Chief Jeff Bladel said there were 53 tenants in the 80-unit building, and now most of them are struggling to find housing and start rebuilding their lives. They have not been allowed into the apartments to retrieve belongings, though crews were able to rescue some pets Tuesday. Toriana Hill and her 3-year-old son Nassir Gladney were among those who sought help Wednesday at a newly opened American Red Cross shelter several miles from the downtown building. They were in their top-floor apartment when their dog, Luna, began barking. Hill heard other booming sounds but figured they were from the busy street below, until neighbors began screaming. She checked the hallway and found the lights were out. Hill picked up her son and fled but debris blocked one staircase, forcing her to find another toward the back of the building. It was bricks already falling so Im like, how the hell am I going to do this, how the hell am I going to do this? she said. I just kept running. I kept running until I hit the first floor, and by the time I made it to the door, I dont know if it was the police officer or the fireman snatched me up, but I was just happy I made it out. Hill is looking for a new apartment and is hopeful shell find something soon. City officials didnt release new details about its plans for the building Wednesday, but at about 6 p.m. the city released hundreds of pages of documents, including structural engineering reports, violation notices and resident complaints, according to the Quad-City Times. Among the documents was an inspection report by Select Structural Engineering, hired by building owner Andrew Wold to advise on building work, that described patches of brick facade that were separating from the building. The report noted bulging that needed to be secured to keep the entire face of the building from falling away when the bottom area(s) come loose." The newspaper also published comments by Ryan Shaffer, a co-owner of a masonry company that was doing work near the now-partially collapsed building. Shaffer said Wold asked him for a quote for work on the building but rejected it as too costly. In part, Shaffer said, the high cost was because of a need to support the building. I said, If we dont do it this way exactly, Im not putting my guys in there. Somebody is going to die, he said. Wold released a statement dated Tuesday, his first comments since the partial collapse, saying our thoughts and prayers are with our tenants" and that his company, Davenport Hotel, L.L.C., is working with agencies to help them. County records show Davenport Hotel, L.L.C. acquired the building in 2021 in a deal worth $4.2 million. The city later declared the building a nuisance due to numerous solid waste violations, and a judge ordered Wold to pay a $4,500 penalty after he did not appear in court. Tuesday, the city filed a new enforcement action against Wold, saying that he had failed to maintain the property in a safe, sanitary, and structurally sound condition before the collapse. The city is seeking a $300 fine. Emails sent to an attorney believed to be representing Wold have not been returned. On Tuesday, city officials said they feared that two residents were stuck inside the rubble and that it was too dangerous to search the debris. Another three people remained unaccounted for Tuesday, but officials said they might not have been in the building when it began collapsing. Protesters have been pushing to thoroughly search the building and debris before the city moves ahead with plans to demolish the rest of the structure. Officials had planned to begin staging the site for a tear-down as early as Tuesday morning but they delayed their efforts after a woman was found Monday evening. Fire Marshal James Morris said explosives will not be used on the building, which is near other structures and is unstable and continues to worsen. He said there will be an investigation into what caused the collapse but that its unclear so far whether a criminal investigation is warranted. Soon after the the Davenport Hotel, built in 1907 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1983, partially collapsed, officials said crews escorted 12 people from the building and rescued several others later. ___ This story has been corrected to show that the city is seeking a $300 fine from the building owner, not $3,000. ____ McFetridge reported from Des Moines, Iowa, and Ahmed from St. Paul, Minnesota. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) Toyota will invest another $2.1 billion in an electric and hybrid vehicle battery factory that's under construction near Greensboro, North Carolina. The plant will supply batteries to Toyota's huge complex in Georgetown, Kentucky, which will build Toyota's first U.S.-made electric vehicle, a new SUV with three rows of seats. The plans, announced Wednesday, won't immediately create any more jobs at either the Kentucky or North Carolina factories. Susan Elkington, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, said the new vehicle reflects the company's "journey toward an electrified future. Toyota will tap into a growing market segment with its new three-row SUV, Elkington said. She sidestepped media questions Wednesday regarding specific details of the new vehicle, saying: I know everybody really wants to know about the vehicle, but todays announcement is really about our manufacturing location. Toyota plans to employ 2,100 workers at the North Carolina battery factory, which will start production in 2025. The investment will prepare infrastructure for expansion. It brings the total investment in the Randolph County plant to $5.9 billion to meet the company's goal of selling 1.8 million electric or hybrid vehicles in the U.S by 2030. Toyota broke ground to begin building the plant in 2021. The 9 million-square-foot Kentucky complex now employs 9,500 people who make the Camry sedan, RAV4 Hybrid SUV, several engines and other components. The company says jobs will shift to the new electric vehicle when production starts in 2025. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear called it an enormous announcement that means ongoing job security for workers at the automaker's Georgetown complex. All those families can be secure and know that they're going to have the security of those continuing jobs for the years and decades to come, the Democratic governor said at his weekly news conference. The North Carolina battery plant will have six battery production lines, four for gas-electric hybrid vehicles and two for fully electric vehicle batteries, Toyota said in a statement. The site near Greensboro is relatively close to many of Toyotas existing U.S. auto assembly plants in Missouri, Kentucky, Indiana, Alabama and Texas. With this proactive infrastructure investment, we will be able to quickly support future expansion opportunities to meet growing customer need, Sean Suggs, president of Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina, said in a statement. Toyota Motor Corp. plans to sell 2 million zero emission hydrogen and battery electric vehicles worldwide per year by 2030. In the U.S., the company plans to sell 1.5 million to 1.8 million vehicles by 2030 that are at least partially electrified. Toyotas new President Koji Sato has promised what he called an aggressive shift on electrification" of vehicles including hybrids. The company has been criticized by environmental groups for falling behind in electric vehicle sales and relying on hybrids, which burn gasoline, for future sales. Suggs pointed to a portfolio approach by Toyota that provides options to consumers. We truly believe that electrification is truly hybrid, plug-in hybrid, fuel cell, all-electric," he told reporters Wednesday. "And thats what the customers are telling us as well. And we believe that theres going to be a gradual approach to electrification going forward. Toyota now offers the bZ4X electric compact crossover, built on whats called the e-TNGA platform. That stands for Toyota New Global Architecture, and is also used in its Prius and Lexus models. The electric platform was developed in collaboration with Subaru. The bZ4X is available in Japan, the U.S., and parts of Europe, such as Germany and Britain, as well as China and Thailand. Toyota also recently announced a new electric car to be sold in China, called bZ3. It will use technology developed with Chinese EV manufacturer BYD Co. in a collaboration that also includes state-owned Tianjin FAW and other partners. ___ Krisher reported from Detroit. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate NEW HAVEN After more than 18 years leading Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services, Chris George is moving on. Its healthy to change and I would like to spend a little more time with friends and family, George said. These 18 years have been demanding and intense, not leaving a lot of time for other things. George said hes going to continue his work in the field of refugee resettlement but on a national level, including working part-time at Welcome Corps. He declined to call the transition a retirement, however. I don't really feel that I should retire from work, he said. I have plenty more energy and ideas, but I just would like to recalibrate the work-life balance a bit. The 69-year-old said he has two daughters who live overseas and that he hasnt been able to visit much. He also has one grandchild and another on the way. Asked whether it was a difficult decision, George said yes but it was time. He said hes going to miss working with refugees, immigrants, volunteers, donors and his staff at IRIS. George plans to remain in his post until there is a replacement, which he expects to happen in the fall, and after a smooth transition. According to IRIS, its board of directors has hired a search firm and created a search committee of current and former board members to find candidates for the top job. Board Chair Michael Van Leesten said in an email to staff and clients that while Georges announcement may bring change and uncertainty within the organization, he wanted people to rest assured the board is committed to finding a highly qualified individual to continue the work. Georges career in the field began after he was a Peace Corps volunteer in 1977, doing international humanitarian work for about 20 years. George joined IRIS 2005, back when an eight-person staff occupied a space in a Wooster Square office. As hes stepping down, IRIS currently has a staff of 138 with an office on Nicoll Street in New Haven and another in Hartford. The outgoing director said the organization has grown enormously over the past 18 years, from helping 200 new arrivals yearly to about 1,000. When I started, we were doing basically the minimum, addressing their basic needs, he said. And now we have a lot of programs in the area of education, legal services, health and wellness. Weve engaged thousands of volunteers from all over the state. As for the biggest lesson he's learned about the American refugee and asylum system, George said the most important thing is to engage the public. If you do this work by ourselves at a low profile, then no one will know about it, he said. When no one knows about refugees and asylum seekers, you cant expect them to automatically support them. George said New Haven has been a terrific place to welcome refugees because of municipal support along with federal and state governments. IRIS provides job, education, English instruction and legal services for newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers. It holds Run for Refugees annually. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate NEWTOWN Two junior members of Newtowns Republican-controlled school board have resigned amid a battle over two sexually explicit books that a committee has recommended keeping on the library shelf at Newtown High School. Sadly I have to announce that Janet Kuzma and Jennifer Larkin have resigned from the Board of Education, said school board chairperson Deborra Zukowski on Wednesday. Their energy, tenaciousness, team spirit, and constructive contributions to our discussions will be sorely missed. Attempts to reach Kuzma and Larkin on Wednesday were not immediately successful. Both Republicans, who were elected in 2021 and whose terms do not expire until 2025, gave notice of their resignation to the Town Clerk and spoke with the board chairperson briefly, Zukowski said. Zukowski, a Republican, said she would not speak for either of them or speculate why they resigned. Zukowski did say that the contentious nature of the school boards public meetings in May that saw residents passionately debate the fate of two books that critics want banned from the library has not been productive or business-like. Zukowski is referring to a heated debate over Flamer by Mike Curato a graphic novel about a 14-year-old Filipino-American boy whos bullied and struggling with being gay, and Craig Thompsons award-winning autobiographical graphic novel Blankets, which recounts childhood sexual abuse, among other topics. A review committee sanctioned by the Newtown school board recommended the books be kept on the shelf over concerns that theyre sexually explicit. Superintendent Christopher Melillo recommended the books remain in the high school library. The resignation of Kuzma and Larkin comes as the school board prepares to discuss the books during a Thursday night meeting. How far the five-member board goes with its discussion, and whether the board votes with its new 3-to-2 Democratic majority remains to be seen. The board has 45 days to replace the open seats with two Republicans. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Vanessa Martinez was finishing preparations for her daughters second birthday in September 2021 when her ex-boyfriend broke into her Mesa, Arizona, condo and shot her in the head as she frantically tried to shield their three young children. Doctors had to remove a third of her skull, but Martinez survived. She left the hospital facing a fight for custody of her kids, who'd been placed in state care after the attack. She needed a new place to live after much of the house was damaged in a standoff between police and her shooter. Her 4-year-old son needed trauma counseling. Arizona has a state safety net local victim compensation programs for victims of violent attacks like Martinez. But she was denied help because she was behind on about $900 in court fines from unrelated incidents, including one dating back nearly a decade. Program officials told Martinez she could reapply if she got current with a payment plan, but every dollar she made was needed for things like finding a place to live, work scrubs for her home-care job, after-school day care and the list grows. Across the country, victims like Martinez are using their stories to advocate for changes to state victim compensation programs, where thousands of crime survivors turn for help with medical bills, relocation, funerals or other expenses. The programs disburse millions of dollars each year, but The Associated Press found racial inequities and other barriers in how claims are denied in many states. Crime survivors have organized rallies, testified at legislatures and met with dozens of lawmakers with much success. Legislatures in more than half of U.S. states have passed measures to improve their programs in recent years. The changes vary widely: A victim's criminal history is no longer an automatic disqualifier in Illinois. The time limit to apply for help was increased from three to seven years in California. In Michigan, the cap on aid will nearly double to $45,000 this year and more people like caretakers of victims will be eligible for survivor benefits. States have cut back on their denials to families based on the behavior of homicide victims and loosened requirements that crime victims must have cooperated with or reported the crime to police. In Ohio, denials are no longer automatic for crime victims who have felony convictions or for surviving family if a murder victim had drugs in their system. Those reasons were used to deny help for a handful of victims in the 2019 mass shooting at a Dayton bar where nine people were killed and 17 others were wounded. Dion Green was at the bar that night with his father, Derrick Fudge, who was killed. Green helped fight for the changes to Ohios program after being denied help because his father had an almost 10-year-old felony conviction. I told them that I miss my father everyday, but the survivors, the people left here, are the ones still moving through their pain, Green said. Changes have incrementally rolled through states over decades as more is learned about victimization. Mental health treatment wasnt a commonly covered expense when the programs started in the 1960s and 1970s, but now is widely covered. Pennsylvania passed a law to allow eligible victims access to counseling whether or not the program determined the victim contributed to their own victimization. Sometimes, however, change runs up against institutional inertia. Nevada doesn't require sexual assault victims to go to police as long as they report the crime to nurses or other health professionals. But a 2021 federal audit found 175 claims from those victims had been denied over a five-year period because of missing or incomplete police reports. Nevada retrained staff after the audit, and revised the denials notifications sent to victims. Program officials confirmed that as of early 2023, none of those denied claims had been reopened. They declined an interview request from the AP. The consensus has been that the potential re-traumatization to victims of sexual assault is too great of a risk in contacting victims regarding their claims, program spokeswoman, Karla Delgado wrote in an emailed response. In Ohio, Green recently helped a woman who had lost her childrens father to gun violence start the compensation process by contacting a county representative. The woman was initially turned away because the victim had a previous felony record. Green helped her inform the official of the 2021 law change. Its the awareness part. People inside and outside the program need to know, Green said. Christelle Perez sought an immediate attitude shift among staff when she took over as chief of the Illinois Crime Victims Compensation Bureau in May 2021. She wanted to stop decades of autopilot denials from holding up recently passed reforms. There was this culture of, How can we deny a claim? because thats what the staff were instructed to do, Perez said. I met with the staff and I told them that we are a service organization and it is our job to serve. A similar mission realignment happened when New Yorks program changed from a five-member board that made inconsistent and sometimes subjective decisions to a division where staff received uniform training on how to decide claims. Elizabeth Cronin took over as executive director of the division in 2013 a few years after the shift and has pushed to make sure the program operates equitably. My top priority was to identify marginalized communities, underserved communities and spend more time out in the community to find out what we arent seeing and why we arent seeing it, Cronin said. Lenore Anderson, president and co-founder of the Alliance for Safety and Justice, which organizes victims to advocate for criminal justice reforms, has pushed program administrators for years to shift their focus from eligibility requirements to victim needs. It feels so obvious that the very least we can do when someone is hurt by crime and violence is ask, What do you need? And the fact that that is completely counter to how these bureaucratic systems operate is shocking, she said. Anderson said she's seen signs of change at the federal level, where the Justice Department's U.S. Office for Victims of Crime provides state programs with matching dollars that are tied to some regulations and a set of suggested guidelines. In a 2021 memo to state programs, the office encouraged states to add exceptions to police cooperation requirements. Some victims advocates want the federal office to mandate changes to all programs as a condition for receiving federal funds to address the piecemeal map of state programs that dole out inconsistent decisions. The office is in the process of overhauling compensation guidelines for the first time since 2001, with an emphasis on equity and addressing programmatic barriers, according to an emailed statement from the department. But its unclear how much of that new guidance will be mandatory. Green, part of an advocates committee giving input on those changes, said hes pushed the agency not only to take down existing barriers but mandate that states increase public awareness of their compensation programs. At the state level, hundreds of advocacy organizations are working for reforms, and with more than 100,000 members, Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice is one of the largest. Bernice Tammi Ringo is one of those members. After a lifetime living around Detroit, Ringo had plans to move to Alabama with her 23-year-old son Natalian to get him away from the crime she had feared most of his life. Those plans were shattered in 2019, when Natalian was fatally shot while sitting in his parked car in an enclave of Detroit. Ringo applied for funeral and counseling aid. She was denied because the program said she could rely on life insurance instead. She appealed, and while the program overturned its initial decision, it denied her again, saying her son had committed misconduct related to his own murder. The state commission provided no details, Ringo said, and Highland Park police were little help. Overwhelmed with grief, Ringo, 64, later spoke before the Michigan Legislature about the trauma of being told her son had somehow caused his murder. They put me through more hell, she said of the program denial. I'm heavily involved because I couldn't leave and go to Alabama and take my son with me and... just start a new life. After she and other victims testified, Michigan lawmakers passed legislation, set to go into effect in August, that makes numerous changes, including increasing money available to victims, eliminating police reporting deadlines and increasing eligibility. Data are not available for the handful of states that passed recent sweeping reforms. But New Jersey, which overhauled its program rules in 2020, saw an immediate change. In 2018 and 2019, Black victims accounted for about 44% of applications but received nearly 60% of the denials, according to data obtained by the AP. After the overhaul, that disparity dwindled, and by 2021 it had disappeared. Martinez hopes that speaking at rallies supporting a bill that would fund a pilot trauma-recovery center in Arizona will lead to more people getting help. The model moves money to victims faster and has fewer restrictions, like those that disqualified Martinez. I didnt really get any time to heal even emotionally from what happened, Martinez said. "But I really feel like this is my lifes mission to get this changed. ___ Catalini reported from Trenton, New Jersey and Lauer reported from Philadelphia. ___ This is the second in an occasional Associated Press series examining crime victim compensation programs. Send confidential tips to ap.org/tips. The Associated Press receives support from the Public Welfare Foundation for reporting focused on criminal justice. The AP is solely responsible for all content. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate He's heir to the throne in one of the oldest monarchies in the Middle East and a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. She's a Saudi architect with an aristocratic pedigree of her own. Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, 28, and Rajwa Alseif, 29, are to be married on Thursday at a palace wedding in Jordan, a Western-allied monarchy that has been a bastion of stability for decades as Middle East turmoil has lapped at its borders. The families have not said how the couple met or provided any details about their courtship. They were formally engaged at a traditional Muslim ceremony in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, in August 2022 that was attended by senior members of Jordan's royal family. The bride and groom are destined to become a power couple in the Middle East, forging a new bond between Jordan and Saudi Arabia as the latter seeks to transform itself into a regional power broker. Here's a look at the bride and groom. A US-EDUCATED ARCHITECT WITH ARABIAN TRIBAL ROOTS Rajwa Alseif was born in Riyadh on April 28, 1994, the youngest of four children. Her mother, Azza bint Nayef Abdulaziz Ahmad Al Sudairi, is related to Hussa bint Ahmed Al Sudairi, who is said to have been the favorite wife of Saudi Arabia's founder, King Abdul-Aziz Al Saud, and gave birth to seven of his sons, including the country's current ruler, King Salman. For decades, the so-called Sudairi Seven, most of whom are now deceased, were seen as a major locus of power within the Saudi royal family. Alseif's father, Khalid, is a member of the Subai, a prominent tribe in the Arabian Peninsula with ancient roots. He's also the founder of El Seif Engineering Contracting, which built Riyadh's iconic Kingdom Tower and other high-rises across the Middle East. Rajwa studied architecture at Syracuse University in New York, where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in 2017. A graduation video shows her receiving her degree in sparkling silver sneakers. The year before, she led a Spring Break architecture symposium in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, that was funded by her father's company. What made this trip so memorable for me... was seeing the students in the studio experience Arabic culture and architecture for the first time," she was quoted as saying by a university newspaper. She went on to earn a degree in visual communications from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. An official biography shared by the Jordanian royal palace says her hobbies include horseback riding and handmade arts, and that she is fluent in English, French and her native Arabic. ___ A CROWN PRINCE LONG GROOMED TO LEAD Crown Prince Hussein was born June 28, 1994. His path to succession became clear when his father, King Abdullah II, stripped his own half-brother, Prince Hamzah, of the title of crown prince in 2004. Hussein was formally named heir to the throne five years later, at the age of 15. He is the oldest son of Abdullah, 61, who has ruled Jordan as a reliable Western ally and voice of moderation through more than two decades of turmoil in Israel, the Palestinian territories, Syria and Iraq, all of which border the small, resource-poor kingdom. The Hashemites, as Jordan's ruling family is known, trace their lineage back to the Prophet Muhammad. They dwelled in the Hejaz region of what is now Saudi Arabia for centuries before King Abdul-Aziz Al Saud's forces drove them out in 1925. The Hashemites had led the Arab revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I, a rebellion dramatized by the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia." They had hoped to rule over an Arab state encompassing much of the Middle East, but Western imperial powers betrayed them. The French drove them out of Syria and a nationalist uprising toppled them in Iraq, leaving them with only Jordan. The crown prince is named for his grandfather, King Hussein, who ruled Jordan for 46 years until his death in 1999 and remains a beloved figure for many Jordanians. It could be years before the crown prince becomes king, but his training has already begun. He graduated from Georgetown University with a degree in international history in 2016 and from the British Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst the following year. He holds the rank of captain in the Jordanian military and routinely takes part in drills and ceremonies. He has joined his father on overseas trips, including a recent meeting at the White House with President Joe Biden. The prince shared pictures from the visit on his Instagram feed, which has over 4 million followers and also features more casual photos. In 2015, Hussein was the youngest person to ever chair a meeting at the U.N. Security Council, leading a discussion about how to help young people confront violent extremism and promote peace. Two years later, and just out of college, he addressed the U.N. General Assembly. His experiences to date may have prepared him to rule Jordan, but he also exists in a world apart from most of his fellow citizens, who have suffered in recent years from diminishing economic prospects. Elected governments in Jordan have long served as a seawall for public anger, even as the king has always held the real power. It's a reality the young crown prince may have to confront someday, long after his palace wedding. NEW HAVEN A local man was found guilty of fatally shooting of Uber driver Rondell Atkinson during a robbery at a Woodbridge playground in 2021, according to the Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice. A jury on Tuesday convicted Rickey Traynham, 28, of murder, felony murder, first-degree robbery and conspiracy to commit first-degree robbery in state Superior Court in New Haven. In a separate proceeding tried before the court, Traynham was also convicted of criminal possession of a firearm and having a pistol without a permit, the DCJ said in a news release Wednesday. According to evidence at the trial, Traynham shot Atkinson, of West Haven, during a robbery at the Pease Road Playground in Woodbridge on June 7, 2021. A jogger found Atkinsons body the next day, along with multiple shell casings, police said in Traynhams arrest warrant affidavit. Police said when they found Atkinson, he did not have his wallet, cellphone or identifying information on him. The affidavit noted that his vehicle, a Hyundai Sonata, had been stolen. Traynham was implicated in the murder when his co-defendant, Jorden Rudel, confessed his involvement in the robbery to multiple family members who testified at the trial, the DCJ statement said. Traynham also was found in possession of the two murder weapons when police arrested him on July 11, 2021. Rudel told someone that he and at least one other person were picked up by Atkinson, an Uber driver, and went to the Woodbridge park where they tried to rob the man. The driver had nothing on him, according to the affidavit. Fearing that the Uber driver could identify Rudel and his friend, they shot him, the affidavit said. Rudel told the person that he shot Atkinson twice in the leg, while the other person shot the driver four times, killing him, according to the affidavit. New Haven States Attorney John P. Doyle Jr. said his office was grateful to the Woodbridge Police Department, Connecticut State Police and the Division of Scientific Services for their tireless work on this investigation. Rondell Atkinson was an upstanding member of the community who fell victim to a senseless act of violence, Doyle said in a statement. Although nothing will bring him back, we are happy to see justice for Rondell and his loved ones. Atkinson died at the age of 33. He was a former praise and worship leader at First Calvary Baptist Chruch in New Haven. He was also an acclaimed vocalist who spent weekends traveling to churches to sing gospel music before congregations and worship with others. Judicial records show Traynham has not been released from custody and is being held on a $3 million bond in this case. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 2. Rudel, 26, of Derby, was charged in July 2021 with felony murder, murder, first-degree robbery, conspiracy to commit first-degree robbery and second-degree larceny. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is being held on a $2 million bond in the case. Rudel is next scheduled to appear for a remote hearing on July 11. CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) Thirteen coal companies owned by the family of West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice are being sued over unpaid penalties for previous mining law violations that the federal government says pose health and safety risks or threaten environmental harm. Justice, who was not named in the lawsuit, accused the Biden administration of retaliation. A Republican two-term governor, Justice announced in April that he is running for Democrat Joe Manchins U.S. Senate seat in 2024. He will face current U.S. Rep. Alex Mooney in the GOP primary. The lawsuit filed Tuesday says that over the past five years, the U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement cited the companies for more than 130 violations. The lawsuit says the total amount of penalties, fees, interest and administrative expenses owed by the defendants is about $7.6 million. U.S. Attorney Christopher Kavanaugh of the Western District of Virginia said the defendants were ordered more than 50 times to stop mining activities until the violations were corrected. Today, the filing of this complaint continues the process of holding defendants accountable for jeopardizing the health and safety of the public and our environment, Kavanaugh said in a statement. Among the violations, the companies failed to ensure the seismic stability of a dam, to maintain sediment-control measures, to clear rock and debris from a haul road after a rock fall, and to properly dispose of non-coal waste. Our environmental laws serve to protect communities against adverse effects of industrial activities including surface coal mining operations, Assistant U.S. Attorney General Todd Kim of the U.S. Justice Departments Environment and Natural Resources Division said in a news release. Through this suit, the Justice Department seeks to deliver accountability for defendants repeated violations of the law and to recover the penalties they owe as a result of those violations. Justice listed 112 coal, agricultural and other businesses on a financial disclosure form he filed this year with the state Ethics Commission, including seven that were placed in a blind trust in 2017. His worth peaked at $1.7 billion in recent years, but he was taken off Forbes prestigious list of billionaires in 2021. The governors companies have been perennially dogged in litigation over unpaid bills. He has tried to put distance between himself and the businesses, saying that his two adult children now run them. His son, Jay Justice, is named in the lawsuit, which lists Roanoke, Virginia, as the coal companies' principal place of business. A message left for Jay Justice in Roanoke wasnt immediately returned Wednesday Jim Justice said he didnt know details of the lawsuit but expects to be briefed by his son. During his weekly media availability Wednesday, the governor again tried to put space between himself and his companies while also pointing a finger at the Biden administration. I've announced as a Republican that I'm running for the U.S. Senate. The Biden administration is aware of the fact that with a win for the U.S. Senate and everything, we could very well flip the Senate, Justice said. There's a lot at stake right now. Later Wednesday, Justice's Senate campaign doubled-down on criticism of the lawsuit's timing. Joe Biden, Chuck Schumer, and the Democrats have seen the polls that show Jim Justice winning this race, and theyre panicking," Roman Stauffer, Justice's campaign manager, said in a statement. "So now the Biden Justice Department has decided to play politics. We will see a lot more of this as the Democrats work to help Alex Mooney because they know they can easily beat him. ___ Lavoie reported from Richmond, Virginia. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate BEIJING (AP) China's commerce minister met Tesla Ltd. CEO Elon Musk on Wednesday and promised to support the development of foreign companies, the ministry said. Musk earlier met with China's ministers of industry and foreign affairs. He joined a series of CEOs from global companies, including Apple Inc., who have met with Cabinet officials or Premier Li Qiang, the top economic official, this year following the end of anti-virus controls that blocked most travel into China. The ruling Communist Party is trying to revive investor interest in Chinas slowing economy and reassure companies that have been rattled by anti-monopoly and data-security crackdowns, raids on consulting firms, tension with Washington and pressure to align their plans with official development goals. The commerce minister, Wang Wentao, said Beijing will support long-term, stable development of foreign-invested enterprises in China," according to a ministry statement. Musk praised the potential of China's development and expressed willingness to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, the statement said. The United States and China should strengthen economic and trade dialogue and cooperation under the guidance of principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, Wang was cited as saying. Earlier, Musk met with the industry minister, Jin Zhuanglong, and exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent networked vehicles, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said on its website. China accounts for half of global electric vehicle sales and is the site of Teslas first factory outside the United States. Li, the premier, delivered a similar message of reassurance in meetings in March with CEOs Tim Cook of Apple, Albert Bourla of Pfizer, Jakob Stausholm of Rio Tinto and Toshiaki Higashihara of Hitachi. Tesla opened the first wholly foreign-owned auto factory in China in 2019 after Beijing eased ownership restrictions to increase competition and speed up industry development. Tesla didnt respond to requests by email for information about Musks visit to China. Musk also is the majority owner of social media platform Twitter, access to which is blocked in China by the ruling party's internet filters. When I was a teenager a church-going honors student, mind you I participated in what these days would be called a hate crime. I would have been stunned to hear it called that in the mid-70s, when members of the LGBTQ community in my town gathered or so the rest of us were told at a bar on Joplins Main Street. I dont remember who told my friends also church-going honors students about that bar, and I dont remember whose idea it was, but we made it our business to include in our Saturday night drag of Main Street a moment where we parked in front of the bar, and yelled rude things at the patrons. I dont remember yelling or what was said, but thats splitting hairs. I do remember laughing at what at the time felt like nothing more than small-town fun at someone elses expense. And then we all got up the next morning to sing praises to Jesus. My friends and I never discussed our hateful behavior, and once we graduated, we scattered. I came east to college, which put me in proximity of some people who frequented those bars. Of course, I grew up in proximity of people who frequented that very bar back home, but they were savvy enough not to let me know that at the time, and I do not blame them. What possible good would have emerged from their coming out to someone who catcalled outside a gay bar? Am I proud of this? I am not. Only years later when I was writing newspaper columns in support of marriage equality did I think about the hurt I most assuredly caused people who were simply living their lives. It haunts me that it never occurred to me to say, This isnt cool. And so the behavior went unchecked, and what happened next? Well, Florida, Missouri and any other state that has made sexual orientation and gender identity the latest target in their fake culture war. This session, you also get not for nothing dumb debates when certain Connecticut legislators sweat an anti-discrimination bill because they give credence to anti-gay organizations that push the long-since dismissed lie that homosexuality is twinned with pedophilia. Big difference, my friends. Huge. Anti-inclusion ultra-right wing legislators and activists have attacked members of the LGBTQ communitys basic rights with blunt instruments. Recently, Target announced it would remove some Pride merchandise after a few social-media-savvy protesters filmed themselves tearing down the displays and harassing shoppers. Those protesters have studied, I assume, peer-reviewed research that shows the closer you stand to a rainbow, the greater the likelihood youll be gay. One guy strode through a store to ask people if they supported satanistic propaganda, and though I love Jesus, I had to laugh when someone answered simply, Yes and then turned away. This followed rightwing extremists reactions that moved Bud Light to backtrack after partnering with Dylan Mulvaney, who has recorded her transition on TikTok. And there, too, Im assuming extremists are relying on science that tells them to be careful choosing their beer brand, lest they pick one that is gay. Pride Month starts this week, and corporations may be wringing their hands over whether to acknowledge it, though I think that is myopic. Corporations are not our guiding light. If a business decision meets with resistance, corporations often will back down. We should not expect them to do otherwise. And where does that leave the rest of us? In the new biography, King: A Life, author Jonathan Eig explores the work and context of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. I am particularly drawn to Eigs stories about the 1955-56 Montgomery bus boycott. It wasnt a come-to-Jesus moment that moved town leaders to desegregate local buses. It was a combination of court cases that ruled in favor of desegregation, and the economic hit the bus company took from Black riders choosing other conveyances for 13 long months. The company lost as many as 40,000 fares a day during the boycott which in todays dollars would be millions. These days, market watchers say boycotts alone have a limited effect on corporate policy. For one thing, its hard to rally enough people to have much of an impact. Then, too, boycotts can often hurt the workers; CEOs weather a boycott just fine. Add to that our collective inability to focus, which works in favor of businesses whove been naughty. We simply forget their bad acts. The damage a boycott inflicts is more reputational than financial, but that at least counts for something. It would be good for corporations worried about a yahoo with an iPhone to reflect on the buying power of the LGBTQ community. According to some estimates, that figure is barreling toward $2 trillion. Couple that with the buying power of their allies and you have a significant blunt instrument that doesnt involve videotaping temper tantrums in store aisles. We simply take our business elsewhere and let the blighted followers of one-hit wonders Kid Rock and Ted Nugent pound salt. So here I am, a white cisgender granny. The moment I decided to participate in those long-ago catcalls, I became the oppressor. Ditto, the moment I spend my dollars anywhere that doesnt welcome everyone. HARTFORD A feud broke out on Tuesday between Senate Republicans and the bipartisan leaders of the legislative Judiciary Committee over proposed parole reforms that were overwhelmingly approved last week in the House of Representatives. Senate Minority Leader Kevin Kelly, R-Stratford and Sen. Heather Somers, R-Groton, charged that the bill governing the Board of Pardons and Paroles, which won approval in the House on May 24 in a 102-45 vote, does not do enough to help victims and their families, who must relive their tragedies when convicted felons ask for their sentences to be commuted. "That's really our primary focus here, is to make sure that at the heart of this victims were going to be heard," said Kelly during an afternoon news conference in the Capitol. "So we remain dedicated to that purpose as a caucus. We will continue to stand with and fight for victims." He said that despite the recent action in the House and the bill that awaits action in the Senate, more work needs to be done for victims. "For those who are the victims of a crime where they have a loved one who's been killed, murdered, raped and murdered, molested and murdered, whether it be a daughter, a son, a father, a friend, a colleague they have been handed a lifetime sentence, a lifetime sentence that can include trauma, extreme loss, despair," Somers said. "And let me be clear the victims in these cases do not get a second chance." But Rep. Steve Stafstrom, D-Bridgeport, and Rep. Craig Fishbein, R-Wallingford, the co-chairman and top Republican, respectively, on the law-writing Judiciary Committee, defended the legislation, stressing that victims were a major consideration in the bill. The impetus of the legislation was the recent controversy over the reappointment of pardons panel members, including its former chairman, and the dozens of incarcerated people who were released in recent years. They warned that if the bill stalls in the Senate and the legislative session ends on midnight June 7 without action, changes in the House bill restricting the power of the pardons board, will not go into effect." "It is extremely unfortunate that they appear to be playing politics," Stafstrom told reporters in a brief news conference with Fishbein outside the House chamber. He said that Senate leaders had a draft of the commutations bill two weeks before the revised legislation passed the House. "They received the final draft of the bill 24 hours before it was going to be taken up on the House floor. We were told there were going to be substantive comments from the Senate Republicans on the bill and we never saw those in the two weeks leading up to its passage. So what their specific objections are to the bill, I have no idea." "I think even at the press conference today, I don't know that anything has been shared of any changes," Fishbein said. "I'll tell you that if they actually review the policy that was actually passed on the 24th, we go a step further in particular we bar certain individuals from being able to be eligible to apply" for commutation. "The legislation that we passed restores the power of the legislature in the process. Should the bill fail, I guess what we're left with is the Board of Pardons and Paroles continues to make the rules. And I thought that's what Republicans in the Senate were opposed to." Stafstrom said the proposal would restrict the unilateral power of the Board of Pardons and Paroles to grant commutations. "We gave a lot of rights to the victims in the process," Fishbein said. "One of the complaints was that victims were getting notice of these applications upon their filing. We put in place, through this legislation, victims would not find out unless after the screening process that the state's attorney knows about, that the board's panel would go through and would evaluate that criteria. If the hearing were to happen, then the victim would get notice. We're trying to keep away the revictimization there was complaint of." "Literally by the Senate Republicans trying to block this legislation they are going back to the status quo," Stafstrom said. "They are putting politics over policy. It is a legislative compromise. We worked in a bipartisan fashion to craft good policy. They seem to want to play politics." The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited says it has adjusted the price of petrol, also known as premium motor spirit (PMS), across its retail outlets. In a statement on Wednesday, Garba Deen Muhammad, NNPCs spokesperson, said the adjustment is in line with market realities. PRESS STATEMENT ADJUSTMENT IN PUMP PRICE OF PMS NNPC Limited wishes to inform our esteemed customers that we have adjusted our pump prices of PMS across our retail outlets, in line with current market realities. As we strive to provide you with the quality service for which we pic.twitter.com/sL0tePldqg NNPC Limited (@nnpclimited) May 31, 2023 NNPC Limited wishes to inform our esteemed customers that we have adjusted our pump prices of PMS across our retail outlets, in line with current market realities, the statement reads. As we strive to provide you with the quality service for which we are known, it is pertinent to note that prices will continue to fluctuate to reflect market dynamics. We assure you that NNPC Limited is committed to ensuring a ceaseless supply of products. The oil company said it regrets any inconvenience the development may cause Nigerians. We greatly appreciate your continued patronage, support, and understanding during this time of change and growth, NNPC said. The development, typical of a subsidy-free regime, comes at a time when Nigerians are uncertain as to whether the current petrol subsidy has ended as declared by President Bola Tinubu, or whether the policy would take off next month. Although Tinubu had said petrol subsidy had stopped, the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Media Centre says the presidents statement was not a new development but a restatement of the federal governments intention to end subsidy by June. The former Special Adviser to former president Muhammadu Buhari, Femi Adesina, is set to return to his job at The Sun Newspaper but this time as the Executive Vice Chairman starting September 1. Adesina confirmed the new job in an interview with a media outlet, The Crest. Prior to his appointment into the immediate past administration as the spokesperson of the president, Adesina was the Editor-in-Chief of The Sun newspaper. Speaking in the interview with The Crest, Adesina said, I came from The Sun newspaper. I was the MD/Editor-in-Chief. And when I wanted to leave, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu said Dont resign. You may get to the government and you dont like it. You can always come back. Or, you may get to the government and stay eight years; you can always come back. Im going to make you the Executive Vice Chairman of the company. Not only did he say it, he issued me the letter. Yes, I have the letter. The Nigeria Labour Congress, on Wednesday, described the release of a new pump price for Premium Motor Spirit by the Nigerian National Population Company Limited as an ambush. The congress said through the act, President Bola Tinubu has put a gun to the head of the Nigerian people. The NNPCL on Wednesday afternoon confirmed it adjusted pump prices of Premium Motor Spirit known better as petrol across the country. In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Garba Deen Muhammad, the national oil company explained that the adjusted pump price was in line with current market realities. But the NLC in a statement signed by its National President, Joe Ajaero, said, We are worried that the Government through the NNPC despite the ongoing meeting of Stakeholders in the oil and Gas sector to manage the unilateral but unfortunate announcement by the President to withdraw subsidy on petroleum products, went ahead this morning to announce a new regime of prices under a new pricing template. This is an ambush and runs against the spirit and principles of Social Dialogue which remains the best platform available for the resolution of all the issues arising out of the petroleum Downstream sector. Government cannot in one breathe be talking about deregulation and at the same time fixing the prices of Petroleum products. This negates the spirit of allowing the operation of the free market unless the government has as usual usurped, captured, or become Market forces. It is therefore unacceptable and we seriously condemn it. Good faith negotiation is key to reaching an agreement. What the government has done is like holding a gun to the head of the Nigerian people and bring undue pressure on the leaders thus undermine the dialogue. We call on the federal government to immediately instruct the NNPC to withdraw this vexatious pricing template to allow free flow of discussions by the parties. Nigerians would not accept any manipulations of any kind from any of the parties, especially from the representatives of the Government. The National Vice Chairman, North West, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Salihu Lukman, has described having Senator Abdullahi Adamu as the National Chairman of the party and Senator Iyiola Omisore as the National Secretary as a double tragedy that befell the ruling party. Lukman, in a statement issued Wednesday, said Adamu, with the support of Omisore, has ensured that other higher organs of the party have been grounded, except the National Working Committee (NWC). He stressed that in the case of the NWC, it was more a case of spoon-feeding members with convenient information, adding that where challenged, as was the case with the court case aimed at restoring constitutional order in the party, the National Legal Adviser, Barr. Ahmed El-Marzuq, became handy with spurious legal interpretations, which are anything but legal, bereft of any logic. According to him, It is already a tragedy that two undeniably hardcore conservatives will be given the task of leading the APC as National Chairman and National Secretary. How can a party envisioned to be progressive have such a misfortune? Lukman accused Adamu and Omisore of spewing up hardcore ethnic Northern arguments against the zoning decisions approved by the NWC of the party. He noted that part of the test would be whether President Bola Tinubu, having agreed together with the APC NWC on the zoning formula for the leadership of the 10th National Assembly, just sit and watch conservative right-wing elements within the APC use Northern ethnic arguments to mobilise for the defeat of endorsed APC candidates for the leadership of the 10th National Assembly Lukman added: The same conservative bloc is now spewing up hardcore ethnic Northern arguments against the zoning decisions approved by the NWC following the outcome of consultations between Sen. Abdullahi Adamu-led NWC team with President Tinubu. As if those consultations were not designed to produce agreements, once the NWC approved the recommendation for zoning the leadership of the 10th National Assembly, Sen. Abdullahi Adamu, instead of acting as the National Chairman, facilitating the implementation of decisions of organs of the party, he is acting as a factional leader opposing the decision of the NWC. He noted that instead of working for the success of the decision of the NWC through activating meetings of higher organs of the party to confer more legitimacy to the decision of the NWC, Adamu seems to be more interested in ensuring that the 2015 model of rebellious leadership emerges in the 10th National Assembly. Former AS Roma sporting director, Walter Sabatini, has heaped praises on manager Jose Mourinho ahead of the teams UEFA Europa League final with Sevilla on Wednesday night. Roma will clash with Sevilla in the Europa League final in Budapest. However, Sabatini hailed Mourinho for never losing a UEFA final, adding that he managed to give the Roma team a psychological and tactical architecture. By virtue of the fact that (Jose) Mourinho has never lost a UEFA final and that Sevilla have never lost a Europa League final, making a prediction is a wicked thing and I wont do it, Sabatini told VoceGiallorossa.it. What I know is that Mourinho has managed to give the team a psychological and tactical architecture, he can compete against anyone. Even from a point of view of being nervous, Roma are now used to fighting any match like a war, so they will certainly rise to the occasion. The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has disclosed that his identity duplication crisis started in Nigeria. Obi made the disclosure on Sunday during a Twitter space organised by the Parallel Media which was monitored by our correspondent. Recall that Obis associates had raised the alarm over his delay at Heathrow Airport, United Kingdom, by immigration officers over a case of alleged identity duplication. Obi said he had been to the UK about four times in 2023, adding that he resided there before he became the governor of Anambra State. He said, I have been to the UK this year at least four times when I went to the Chatham House when I was invited by the UK government. So, it was a surprise to me. I had lived there for years and still own property there because that was where I lived before I became governor and for me to appear at the airport and they will ask me to sit down, I was very surprised, but all these happened within a few minutes. Noting that the incident had taught him to be careful, following the possible threat to his personality, Obi disclosed that the attempt to clone his identity began in Nigeria. He said, It is shocking when someone tells you that your identity was duplicated; my first reaction was to say it means nothing, but I was referred to an expert on identity duplication who further shocked me. He (the expert) said to me, Peter you could be implicated for a rape, you book a hotel, they have their own gang that comes in, set you up at night and someone says you did this, and they call police. In the UK and everywhere in the Western world, this is a serious case, and you cant get bail. You could be implicated in murder with your duplicate, same thing if they are checking any luggage. Thank God nothing happened; I have been managing it, and I have been to the UK since then while they too are investigating. When I arrived after that, I was asked and I explained to them, they said they are looking into it, thats all I can say for now. Im also extremely careful, and Im managing it, and hoping nothing goes wrong, but it is something that started from Nigeria, Obi narrated. The senate has mourned Raymond Dokpesi, founder of DAAR Communications, and owner of African Independent Television (AIT) and RayPower. Dokpesis death was announced on Monday. He was 71. The upper legislative chamber asked the federal government to immortalise the late media mogul. The resolution of the senate followed a motion sponsored by Francis Alimikhena, senator representing Edo north. While eulogising him, Alimikhena said Dokpesi ventured into the media business at a time the industry was dominated by government outfits in the 1990s. In the early 1990s when Nigerian media was dominated by the government media only, he entered the Nigerian mass media industry with his company, DAAR Communications, the senator said. He established the first independent radio station; Ray Power FM in 1993 and the first global satellite television station; AIT in Nigeria in 1996. Eyinnaya Abaribe, senator representing Abia south, said Dokpesi stood for the country by giving one of the key ingredients of democracy. For that, we must at all times always remember the late Dokpesi as the man that stood forward for Nigeria and gave us one of the key ingredients of democracy which is freedom of information, Abaribe said. I say good night because good men are very rare. May God accept his soul. After the eulogies, the senate observed a one-minute silence in his honour. An Osun State High Court sitting in Osogbo has sentenced Adedeji Adesola to two years imprisonment for altering the receipt issued to Timothy Adegoke before his death at the Hilton Hotels, Ile-Ife, Osun State. The judgment on Wednesday is a continuation of the high-profile judgment of Tuesday in which Rahman Adedoyin, the Chairman of the hotel, and two others were sentenced to death by hanging. Adegoke, who died under mysterious circumstances in November 2021 was a postgraduate student of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. He left Abuja on November 5 2021 to sit for his examination at the university. The deceased had lodged at Hilton Hotels belonging to Adedoyin where he allegedly lost his life and was declared missing on November 7, 2021, after his classmates discovered that he did not show up in class at the Moro Distance Learning Centre of the university. Also, the police investigation revealed that he had told his family of his plans to check into Hilton hotels in Ife, where he usually stays whenever he arrives the town. In delivering the judgment, the Osun State Chief Judge, Justice Adepele Ojo, adjourned the sentencing of Adedeji till Wednesday. Adedeji was alleged to have fabricated another receipt as directed by her employer (Rahman Adedoyin) to conceal any traces of the deceaseds death from the police. Justice Adepele Ojo, who handed over the two-year jail term to the convict, being the seventh defendant in her trial, said the two-year jail term begins from the first day she was detained since the commencement of the trial. Adesola was arraigned with six others on 11 counts bothering on conspiracy, murder, felony, among others, and they all pleaded not guilty to all the counts. The case file number: HOS / 5C/ 2022, dated February 14, 2022, and filed on Feb. 17, 2022, was substituted with: HOS/5C/ 2022, dated February 22 , 2022, and filed on March 2, 2022. At the beginning of the investigation by the police, the hotel had denied that the deceased was lodged at their facility before some evidence of payment transactions was discovered. The police investigation officers also revealed that one of the white Hilux vans allegedly used in carrying the deceaseds body by the son of the hotel owner, Raheem Adedoyin, was later recovered in an undisclosed place in Abuja. Adedoyins son was the Managing Director of the hotel and reportedly supervised the dumping of Adegokes body in a shallow grave along Ife highway before it was recovered by the police. Some suspects now at large and declared wanted by the police for the alleged murder of Timothy Adegoke are Raheem Adedoyin (Son), Esther Asigoh and Quadiri Moshood. Adedeji Adesola is to continue her jail term at the Ilesa Correctional Facility, Ilesa. Ifeanyi Okowa, the immediate past governor of Delta, has addressed his fallout with James Ibori, former governor of the state. Okowa and Ibori have been at loggerheads since the Delta Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primary election in 2022. Ibori had supported David Edevbie, a commissioner of finance in his administration, while Okowa threw his weight behind Sheriff Oborevwori, former speaker of the state house of assembly. Oborevwori eventually won the primary and subsequently triumphed in the governorship election. He was sworn into office on Monday. Okowa said Iboris insistence on backing Edevbie resulted in a disagreement between them. I WAS SURPRISED AND DECEIVED Speaking with journalists on Sunday, Okowa opened up on why he opposed Iboris choice and resolved to pitch his tent with Oborevwori. Okowa said Edevbie had tricked him into believing he would respect the Delta PDP zoning provision ahead of the governorship election in 2015. The immediate past Delta governor said he shared his reservation about Edevbie with Ibori but the latter was unmoved. Okowa and Edevbie were commissioners in the Ibori administration. I dont like to talk about it but obviously theres no doubt that we didnt work together, Okowa said. We went into the primaries not agreeing on the same candidate, we talked about it but he(Ibori) did not want to shift ground on his candidate. Thats the truth and I did not agree with that candidate for basic reasons which I made clear enough to him and also to his own candidate. I did not hide it. Till tomorrow, I speak about it in truth not because I thought I was a god that needed to install somebody. David Edevbie is my friend. We were with the former governor in his tenure together as commissioners, but in 2014, when it became obvious that it was the turn of the Delta North Delta Central and Delta South had had their turns I heard that David was going to run and he was indicating interest. I went from Abuja with three of my friends to visit him in Lagos and I said David, please, its only fair, I know that there are so many people competing but Im coming to you as a friend. It will not be fair if you run. Governor James Ibori has been there, Governor Uduaghan has been there, its obviously the turn of the Delta North; why dont you allow us to have our space so that we can all be said to be part of the state? Thereafter, we can all work for you to become governor. And at the end, he said I will not run anymore, I will support you. I thanked him and left back to Abuja. Okowa, who was a senator at the time, said Edevbie went against his word and was holding secret meetings with stakeholders, strategising on how to become governor. And then suddenly, next thing we heard was that they had endorsed David but this same David had committed himself to me, he added. So we went into the race, a very tough race but God enabled me to win. EDEVBIE CANT ENJOY ZONING HE NEVER SUPPORTED Although Okowa appointed Edevbie as a commissioner in his cabinet, he said the latter still proceeded with his plans on how to become the next governor. In the second year, I started hearing that he was holding meetings in Lagos and other places where they were already prepping him to be governor without anybody discussing with me, Okowa said. The PDP vice-presidential candidate noted that although the zoning rules meant the governorship seat, in 2023, would go to Delta Central Edevbies zone he was adamant that the former commissioner would not be a beneficiary. In the first instance, he did not want the zoning to Delta North, so if the zoning was going to continue, hes my friend but he shouldnt be the one to benefit from the zoning he did not want, Okowa said. Im careful in what I do so it will be difficult for me to support someone outside Delta Central but my only mindset is that somebody who did not believe in the zoning cannot be the one to benefit from it and I made it clear to the former governor. Okowa said Ibori met with him a few days before the primary election to reach a compromise on a fresh candidate but he noted that it was too little, too late. I told him it would be difficult to withdraw support from my candidate. I dont do things like that, Okowa said. Oborevwori defeated Ovie Omo-Agege, the APC candidate and former deputy speaker of the house of representatives, to clinch the governorship seat. Former lawmaker, Shehu Sani has dared Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, to make public his assets by publishing the content of the form he submitted at the Code of Conduct Bureau. Sani alleged that El-Rufai left a huge debt profile for the State, whereas he claimed he never stole from its coffers. In a post via his verified Twitter handle on Wednesday, Sani slammed the erstwhile Governor, saying he is now back to blogging on Twitter. The social critic claimed El-Rufai is waiting for political appointment from President Bola Tinubu, after he had worked for Rotimi Amaechi, Tinubus contender at the party primary. He wrote, Mr El-rufai, retired Governor now back to blogging on Twitter while waiting for political appointment from Tinubu, after working for Amaechi and surreptitiously dropping negative stories and made negative stories about Tinubu. You left a huge debt profile for our Children and grand Children in Kaduna State to pay AND YOU claimed that you NEVER STOLE from the coffers of Kaduna State. One of your stooge even claimed that you are poorer now. I dare you to make public your assets by publishing the content of the form you submitted at the Code of Conduct Bureau, both the one of 2015 and that of 2023. I will get back to you after you have done this. Ocean City announced new beach rules Tuesday that officials said are meant to put a stop to disruptive gatherings of drunken teens threatening the Jersey Shore citys family-friendly reputation. Mayor Jay Gillian said he signed the orders which include closing the beaches at 8 p.m. and an earlier curfew for minors to send a strong message to residents and visitors after a rowdy Memorial Day weekend in which police responded to hundreds of incidents involving alcohol. Under the new rules, Ocean Citys beaches will close at 8 p.m. and carrying backpacks on the beach and boardwalk will no longer be permitted after 8 p.m. Bathrooms on the boardwalk will close at 10 p.m. and the curfew for juveniles has been moved from 1 a.m. to 11 p.m, officials said. While the new rules were designed to address unruly teens, Gillian acknowledged they will impact beachgoers of all ages. I understand that these new directives will affect many people who are not teens, but its important that we stop this type of behavior now, Gillian said in a press release. Videos on social media showed large crowds of teens throughout Memorial Day weekend on the Ocean City beach and boardwalk. In some of the videos, young adults appear to be drunk. In one video, hundreds of teens gathered on the beach in the dark. Over the weekend, Ocean City police responded to 999 incidents, an increase over last Memorial Day weekend, local officials said. In addition to underage drinking, Gillian said police responded to incidents involving vandalism, assaults, shoplifting, confiscation of a firearm, and a variety of other offenses. There were also several incidents involving teens who drank to the point of unconsciousness, assault victims, mental health issues and other incidents, Gillian said. This Jersey Shore town is closing its beaches at 8 p.m. in an effort to stop large gatherings of unruly teens, like the crowd seen here over Memorial Day weekend. Gillian said the new policies were also a response to the continuation of a trend that began when statewide legislation largely stripped police officers of the ability to question juveniles, search juveniles, and confiscate alcohol. In 2020, the state attorney generals office issued new rules built on juvenile justice reform. The reforms were meant to eliminate longstanding disparities that have prevented young people in Black and Brown communities from reaching their full potential, Gov. Phil Murphy said at the time. Murphys office Wednesday said the governor will work with local municipalities to combat issues like those in Ocean City. Our office understands that large-scale youth gatherings have raised public safety concerns over the past few years, the office said in a statement. In order to ensure that the safe enjoyment of the Jersey Shore is available to every family and resident, this Administration will continue to work with the local elected officials and law enforcement officials of our shore towns to address this issue fairly and responsibly. Ocean City has tried to find other ways to crack down on unruly behavior, local officials said. In December, the city passed an ordinance that allows police officers to detain minors for a wide variety of infractions including littering, vandalism and setting off illegal fireworks as breach of peace violations. Under the local law, teens can be taken to the police station and their parents will be called to pick them up, even if they are not charged. Other Jersey Shore towns have implemented new rules aimed at teens in recent years. After a series of rowdy pop-up parties, Toms Rivers beach communities added a curfew in 2020 that prevents anyone under 18 from roaming the streets after 10 p.m. without an adult. Toms River officials recently announced they would be reinstating the curfew this summer. Some local officials said they were motivated to implement new rules partly because of last summers unsanctioned H2oi car rally in Wildwood, where two people were killed during a chaotic pop-up event that drew large crowds. Ocean Citys mayor said the new rules will come with additional police, more announcements on the boardwalk and a public awareness campaign. In the end, protecting our reputation as Americas Greatest Family Resort will benefit everybody in Ocean City, Gillian said. There will be an emergency meeting of the Ocean City council at 1 p.m. Thursday at City Hall to discuss the new rules, officials said. Afterward, Gillian and Police Chief Jay Prettyman will hold a press conference at 3 p.m. at Ocean City Music Pier. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jackie Roman may be reached at jroman@njadvancemedia.com. UPDATE: Beach mob of drunken teens forced Jersey Shore towns curfew, backpack ban, city says Ocean City officials are preparing to sign off on changes that would tighten a city-wide curfew for minors and restrict access for all ages to the beach and boardwalk area after a weekend that saw police responding to nearly 1,000 incidents, authorities said. Over the weekend, police responded to 999 incidents, an increase of 130 over last years Memorial Day weekend, which included underage drinking, vandalism, assaults, shoplifting and the confiscation of a gun, according to a statement from the city. The city council scheduled an emergency meeting for 1 p.m. on Thursday to discuss the issue and officially adopt the rule changes, officials said. Under the new rules, all beaches will be closed at 8 p.m. Carrying backpacks will not be permitted on the beach or boardwalk after 8 p.m. as well, officials said. The new beach curfew will apply to people of all ages, as will the evening backpack ban. Boardwalk bathrooms will also be closed at 10 p.m. The citywide juvenile curfew will move up from 1 a.m. to 11 p.m. once city officials take the required action Thursday, authorities said. Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian said the new steps are necessary following the unruly behavior of many over the holiday weekend. I understand that these new directives will affect many people who are not teens, but its important that we stop this type of behavior now, Gillian said in a statement. In the end, protecting our reputation as Americas Greatest Family Resort will benefit everybody in Ocean City. I want to support the men and women of our police department, Gillian continued. They have been doing everything they can within the law to address this situation, and I want to give them the tools to get the job done. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Police have released a sketch of the man who allegedly tried to abduct a child at a Wawa in South Jersey. The incident occurred about 12:20 p.m. on May 28 at the Wawa on Route 47 in the Dorchester section of Maurice River, Cumberland County, according to the New Jersey State Police. The male subject entered a restroom at the convenience store and offered a seven-year-old boy candy to leave with him, police said. The boy declined the offer and the perpetrator responded by grabbing the childs arm and attempting to remove him from the restroom, officials said. The victim then managed to break free and ran to his mother who had been using the stores female restroom, authorities said. The man left the store before the boys mother could locate him, police said. Investigators reviewed surveillance footage from the store and surrounding area, which captured the suspect and the vehicle that is believed to be his. Police say he has gray thinning hair that is combed back and was last seen wearing jeans and a maroon or burgundy t-shirt. He is believed to have left the area in a white Toyota 4-Runner, authorities said. The State Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to call their Port Norris Station at 856-785-0036. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. Jersey City Theater Center (JCTC) will present five plays from June 2 through June 15 as part of the Voices International Theatre Festival. The plays represent nations including Romania, Poland, Russia, Czech Republic and the United States. Through the Voices International Festival, Jersey City Theater Center masterfully weaves the vibrant threads of diverse cultures, constructing bridges that effortlessly transcend boundaries and forge connections between people, both within our local community and across the globe, said Olga Levina, executive director at JCTC. JCTCs unyielding dedication to fostering a vibrant community becomes the catalyst for a future where the language of arts becomes the unifying force that brings us all together in harmony. Performances include the following: Present: Perfect by Jan Mocek (Czech Republic), Friday, June 2, 7:30 p.m., is set in a museum of our collective memory, letting the audience explore a collection of artifacts that commemorate alternative versions of key historical moments. Even with the guidance of the performers, it is hard to determine which events are important, which are good to remember, and which are better to forget. The show is free, but there is a suggested donation of $10. Bowie in Warsaw, by Trap Door Theatre (Poland/USA), Sunday, June 4, 7 p.m., takes place in 1970s Poland as the women of Warsaw fear for their lives when a strangler lurks in their midst, causing fear, unspoken secrets, and traumas to surface. The show is meant to be an absurd comedy about the repression of self-expression and love in the Soviet era and features a baroque world to be one day visited by David Bowie. Tickets are $10. On the Other Side, by Elena Demyanenko & Tarik Burnash (Russia/USA), Saturday, June 10, 7:30 p.m. is a dance performance that protests the current aggression of the Russian government. Using four different modes of engagement and a choreographic process, Demyanenko asks: What does it mean to be a Russian artist? To write from the side of an aggressor? Tickets are $10. The Best Child in the World, by Alina Serban (Romania), Sunday, June 11, 7 p.m., is the story of a Roma girl who discovers the differences of race and environment at a young age. An autobiographical performance by Serban, the show is meant to invite empathy, speaks about achieving the impossible, and make peace with the past. The show is free, but there is a suggested donation of $10. Pool, by Denisa Musilova (Czech Republic/USA), Thursday, June 15, 6 p.m., is a combination of performance, visual art, and documentary exploring the male gaze, self-objectification, and how power shifts between looking, seeing, and being seen. The stage, covered with rows of Barbie dolls, will feature four performers enacting a vivid triptych: two men competing to satisfy their own narcissism; a ghost of a woman whose shattered identity lives among the infinite gazes of men; and a young girl whose solid, stable presence throws into high relief the others disturbances. The show is free, but there is a suggested donation of $10. Tickets for shows that require them can be found online at www.JCTCenter.org. The Jersey City Theater Center is located at 165 Newark Ave, Jersey City, entrance from Barrow Street. A Taste of Hoboken, the annual fundraiser for the Hoboken Community Center (HCC), is set to take place on Tuesday, June 6, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Maxwell Place Park. The HCC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides essential services and spaces to support the well-being of the Hoboken and New Jersey community at large. After New Jerseys largest weed supplier, Curaleaf, was banned by state regulators from selling recreational cannabis in April, the company enlisted a former New Jersey attorney general to fight the order. Chris Porrino, a state attorney general under Gov. Chris Christies administration, immediately appealed the decision in the companys bid to keep its ability to sell recreational cannabis. One business day after the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission took a vote that would have taken away Curaleafs license to sell recreational weed at two of its three dispensaries as of April 21, it abruptly scheduled a special meeting to reverse that decision. The about-face was made after the cannabis commission received legal counsel from state Attorney General Matthew Platkins office, according to multiple sources familiar with the decision who requested anonymity because they didnt have permission to speak about it. The commission took a recess in May, but will reconvene on Thursday for its next regular monthly meeting. Curaleaf is not listed on the agenda but other annual license renewals are on deck for approval. The speed of the reversal on Curaleaf stood out compared to how other cannabis business applicants move through the administrative process, said Michael Hoffman, a cannabis lawyer who has built a reputation for doing free cannabis expungement clinics across the state. Theres applicants who waited dozens of months, if not years, for getting their cannabis license granted, Hoffman said. Curaleaf had no license for approximately a day and was able to get that overturned in a special emergency meeting. That was unprecedented ... I had never seen anything like that. Hoffman suggested political connections had an impact. Porrino filed an appeal to the commissions decision and Rajiv Parikh, a Murphy ally whos also been the State Democratic Committees lawyer, was among the lawyers listed on it. I thought it was extremely suspect and there was obviously influence on governmental entities by high powered lawyers, Hoffman said. Former Attorney General Porrino is a very good lawyer and he is well connected. His representation probably had quite a bit to do with the fact that this got dealt with so quickly. A spokesperson from the Attorney Generals office said its Division of Law was responsible for advice and that Platkin himself did not specifically give advice to the CRC. The spokesperson also said in a statement that any accusations of political influence were unfounded. It is self-serving and outrageous for anyone especially attorneys who are representing profitable clients in the cannabis industry to baselessly accuse our office of putting political influence above the public good, the statement said. To be clear, the Attorney General is not personally involved in providing advice to client agencies. Unfounded accusations such as this do a disservice to the dedicated, career public servants in the Division of Law, who zealously advocate for and provide counsel to our state agencies. In response to the statement, Hoffman said that his clients were not cannabis companies, but expungement petitioners. The cannabis companies do sponsor the work that I do, but the individuals do not pay at all, he said. Porrino declined to comment through a spokesperson. Porrino now works for powerhouse law firm Lowenstein Sandler, the same firm Platkin worked at before Gov. Phil Murphy appointed him attorney general. While they were at the firm, Porrino and Platkin represented Beth Stavola, a Murphy ally and cannabis company entrepreneur who had contributed more than $35,000 to the New Jersey State Democratic Committee. Porrino also represented Murphys administration after several people in the governors inner circle, including Platkin, were criticized for their response to allegations that a top campaign staffer raped a volunteer. The Massachusetts-based cannabis behemoth, which operates in 23 states and in several European markets, surprised state officials when it closed its cultivation site in Bellmawr, cutting loose some 40 employees in March. Multiple employees at Curaleaf and the United Food and Commercial Workers, the union that represents the largest share of cannabis employees in New Jersey, contend the real reason Curaleaf cut the grow facility was because workers were in the process of unionizing. Curaleaf denies this. Cannabis legislation in New Jersey requires companies to collectively bargain in good faith. The provision was largely touted in whats been an historically pro-union state. The closing of the grow facility was mentioned during the initial cannabis board vote in April. Only one member, Vice Chairman Sam Delgado, voted to renew Curaleafs recreational weed license at its Bellmawr and Edgewater Park dispensaries. Chairwoman Dianna Houenou and Commissioner Maria Del Cid-Kosso abstained; commissioners Charles Barker and Krista G. Nash voted no. Three yes votes were required to renew the license. The action did not apply to medical marijuana sales at the facilities. On the other side of the argument, Porrino contended in legal filings that three no votes should have been required along with a separate administrative hearing. The emergency vote was 4-1 in favor of renewing the license with only Barker voting no. Sources said the Attorney Generals office, which represents all state agencies in court challenges, advised the commission prior to the second vote. But nobody is giving a reason for why the commission reversed course. The Attorney Generals Office and the governors office declined comment. In appealing the decision, Porrino who has also represented Holistic Industries, accused by another company of using family members to falsely represent itself as a diversely owned firm argued that regulators had stripped Curaleaf of due process. He said the company should have a chance to defend itself and disputed the contention that it was flouting collective bargaining. The status quo must be preserved so that Curaleaf may have an opportunity to be heard at an administrative hearing, consistent with due process, Porrino argued in legal documents. At which it will demonstrate that the two stated reasons for not renewing the license (union negotiations and a facilitys downsizing) were an illicit disguise to justify the CRCs retaliation against Curaleaf for consolidating certain operations. Under New Jersey law, traditionally any action taken by a state agency can be appealed to the state appellate division. In such cases, it is possible judges can issue stays that would delay a commissions decision until it was decided in court, a process that can take months or even longer. The attorney generals office declined to comment on whether that would have been the case in this specific scenario. Multiple legal sources also suggested that such a court fight could prompt a challenge to the state laws provision requiring companies conduct collective bargaining in good faith because labor action traditionally falls under the federal National Labor Relations Board. Some of those some legal sources however, also pointed out that the entire concept of statewide legalization was technically preempting federal law, so it wouldnt be clear if federal preemption toward collective bargaining would be applicable. While the commission reversed course, its members stressed the regulators will continue to press Curaleaf on labor issues. During the emergency meeting when the CRCs decision was reversed, Houenou issued a statement on what the commission would look for. Curaleaf shall provide the board with evidence of good faith efforts to negotiate for a collective bargaining agreement at each facility, she said. Curaleaf shall attest under oath to its activities and tactics. The entity will also produce any records, documents and the like requested by the board that concern its intentions to modify their New Jersey operations, she said. Curaleaf said in a statement it intends to comply in good faith. Curaleaf is finalizing its response to the CRCs requests for information following their April 17 emergency meeting to renew our adult use cannabis licenses, said Curaleaf spokesperson Tracy Brady. Our responses will reflect that we have been actively engaged with the local union to ensure that we are following all requirements of the state mandated labor peace agreement and applicable federal law governing labor relations. CRC commissioner Krista Nash called the initial decision to revoke Curaleafs ability to sell recreational weed a wake up call for many cannabis companies doing business in New Jersey. Let me make this very clear It is time that we favor people over profits, she said. Despite the reversal, many cannabis industry insiders credited the original action to strip Curaleaf of its ability to sell recreational weed as an effective message of accountability. During that meeting there were even some who clapped in applause for the decision. A lawyer who was familiar with the case but unauthorized to speak about it said the regulators actions got the Curaleaf back to the table. The CRCs not going to be able to force them to unionize, thats just not in the cards, but they can hold their feet to the fire, they said. Hoffman, however, said the dynamic of the reversal sends the wrong message to the public. Unfortunately, I think what theyre going to take away from this is that if you have the money and the power to get money and power, youre going to keep money and power, he said. Jelani Gibson is content lead for NJ Cannabis Insider. He may be reached at jgibson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @jelanigibson1 and on LinkedIn. This article received subsequent comment from the New Jersey Attorney Generals Office. Rashid Ali Bynum, the Virginia man charged with killing Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice K. Dwumfour, has two prior weapon convictions. Middlesex County authorities announced earlier Tuesday that Bynum, 28, had been arrested on murder and related firearm charges in Chesapeake, Virginia. He is currently a resident of Portsmouth, a neighboring city. Authorities did not reveal any alleged motives in the crime, but said Bynum was in Dwumfours phone contacts with an acronym for a Bible study group Dwumfour had created. The suspect was captured on surveillance footage running from the crime scene on Feb. 1 and investigators have evidence that Bynum traveled from Virginia to New Jersey the day of the murder, including EZ Pass and license plate readers that recorded the alleged journey of his rental car. Bynum has previously been arrested or charged several times in the Chesapeake, Virginia area. The crimes vary, from motor-vehicle violations and drug possession to credit card larceny and weapon possession and several of the charges are pending in court. The incidents also range from April 2013, when he was 18 years old, until April 2020, Virginia court records show. Twice, Bynum has been convicted of weapon possession. He received three years probation in March 2015 for a conviction of carrying a concealed weapon, from an October 2014 arrest, records show. The sentence also included a 90-day jail term, which was suspended, records show. An online court listing did not specify the weapon. In May 2019, Bynum was arrested in Pocomoke City, Maryland - across the Chesapeake Bay on the Delmarva Peninsula and charged with firearm crimes after police pulled over a car he was in, along with two other young men from the Chesapeake area. Police found four loaded handguns, masks, gloves and target practice posters. Bynum pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor handgun charge and served 17 days in jail, Maryland court records show. A Portsmouth, Virginia lawyer who represented Bynum in a recent case was unavailable for comment Tuesday evening. Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. Kevin Shea may be reached at kshea@njadvancemedia.com. A 35-year-old man pleaded guilty Tuesday to federal charges he transported two girls under the age of 18 from Ohio to New Jersey to engage in sexual activity and the production of child porn, authorities said. Berry Norman, of The Bronx, New York, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Trenton to interstate travel to engage in illicit sexual conduct, according to U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger. Norman brought the girls to an unnamed location in Hudson County in February 2021, according to charging documents. After all the huffing and puffing, Speaker Kevin McCarthy just agreed to a budget deal that makes only modest changes in federal spending, obnoxious as most of them are, ending another round of pointless political drama brought to us by a party that has lost its way. The handshake deal, it turns out, is no big deal at all. The deep spending cuts approved by the GOP House in April are gone, replaced by a modest cap on the growth of discretionary spending over just two years, one that exempts the Pentagon. President Bidens aggressive steps to combat climate change survived intact. So did Social Security and Medicare. And while the White House agreed to trim its $80 billion makeover of the IRS, the deal allows Biden to delay those cuts for eight years, when the issue can be revisited by a new president and a new Congress. Rich tax cheats remain in the crosshairs. Add it up, and it is a big win for Biden, whose long experience on Capitol Hill has made him a skilled political player. Despite the bitter political divisions in the country and in Congress, he has again found the sweet spot. The deal is likely to win bipartisan support, as did the $1 trillion infrastructure law, which is financing a national facelift, and the CHIPs Act, which is turbo-charging Americas capacity to manufacture semiconductors and compete with China. And, praise God, this deal will raise the debt ceiling for two years, meaning Republicans wont have a chance to play this same reckless game again until after the next presidential election. There will be defections on both sides, no doubt. For progressives, the spending caps that will scale back spending on education, housing, research, and other critical needs will be hard to swallow. So will extending the work requirement for food stamp recipients to age 54, up from 49. Its a marginal change, but we know from the existing requirement that it wont increase employment and it will create more hardship. (Some compensation: The deal also enhances food stamp benefits for vets and the homeless.) The 2017 Trump tax cuts, tilted heavily towards the rich, will remain in place. Dont miss the best in editorials, opinion columns and commentary from NJ.com writers. Add your email here: Hard-right members of Congress are calling McCarthys deal a betrayal and demanding more muscular steps towards a balanced budget. But who can take them seriously? They raised the debt ceiling over and over under Trump without making a peep as he added more to the national debt than any president in history. They supported his 2017 tax cut without covering the cost, and in these talks, insisted that it remain in place. On the debt, they are complete phonies. For now, the country has sidestepped a crisis, at least for two years. The sensible move would be to kill the debt ceiling provision altogether so that Republicans can no longer use the threat of national bankruptcy to get their way. It amounts to extortion, and its power is based on the fear that Republicans might actually be crazy enough to cause a default, as Trump encouraged them to do. That threat remains. Democrats blew a chance to get rid of the debt ceilings altogether before Republicans took control of the House in 2021, a serious mistake that could come back to haunt Biden in two years. The debt ceiling is an anachronism, created during World War I to ease the process of federal borrowing by allowing the Treasury to borrow without Congress authorizing each issuance of debt. It has evolved into the monster we are witnessing today. For now, though, Biden has averted a crisis and steered the ship of state to safer waters. Now, lets see which members of Congress will vote to approve. More: Tom Moran columns Tom Moran may be reached at tmoran@starledger.com or (973) 986-6951. Follow him on Twitter @tomamoran. Find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. Then-Gov. Chris Christie shakes the hands of supporters when he announced his 2016 presidential bid. He will host a town hall meeting in New Hampshire Tuesday, where hes expected to formally announce his second presidential campaign.NJ Advance Media for NJ.com Editors Note: This story has been updated to clarify information about the jurys verdict. A jury found a Cumberland County man guilty of aggravated assault in a shooting that wounded a New Jersey State Police trooper three years ago. Officials are investigating a workplace fatality that occurred in Somerset County Wednesday morning. Police responded to a 911 call on Willow Road in Hillsborough at 7:27 a.m., reporting an incident involving heavy machinery, Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald said. The worker was pronounced dead on the scene, authorities said. Life-saving measures were not possible due to the severity of his injuries, officials said. The man who died has been identified as a 62-year-old from Ocean County, prosecutors said. His name is being withheld pending notification of the next of kin. Prosecutors have not disclosed the name of the business where it occurred. An initial investigation has determined that it was a workplace accident, authorities said. An autopsy by the county medical examiners office is pending. The Prosecutors Office is asking anyone with information about the incident to call the agencys Major Crime Unit at 908-231-7100 or submit a tip anonymously through the STOPit mobile app. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com. A 37-year-old Blairstown man died Tuesday in a motorcycle crash in Hope Township, according to New Jersey State Police. Gerald Grenewicz died after a crash at 2:20 p.m. Tuesday at mile marker 2.3 on County Route 521, police said. Grenewicz was driving a Harley Davidson motorcycle northbound when he veered left, hit a metal guardrail and struck two trees, police said. The crash remains under investigation. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to Lehighvalleylive.com. Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. An air quality alert issued for New Jersey on Tuesday due to smoke from a massive wildfire in Nova Scotia, Canada remain in effect on Wednesday. The code orange air quality alert means that air pollution concentrations could become unhealthy for sensitive groups such as children, people suffering from asthma heart disease or other lung diseases, and older senior citizens, the National Weather Service said. Affected people are advised to remain indoors and avoid strenuous activity. The alert issued by the state Department of Environmental Protection expires at midnight. Forecasters are calling for partly sunny skies across the state Wednesday, with highs ranging from the upper 60s along the Jersey Shore to the upper 70s in inland areas. Haze and patchy smoke are expected to become more prevalent in the afternoon, because of winds from the east and northeast that are blowing the wildfire smoke over our region, the weather service said. A Code Orange Air Quality Alert has been issued across southeastern PA and all of NJ. Sensitive groups should minimize strenuous outdoor activities. For more air quality information, visit https://t.co/feYMPwR7XC and follow @AIRNow @NewJerseyDEP @PennsylvaniaDEP pic.twitter.com/44UKgvcu3O NWS Mount Holly (@NWS_MountHolly) May 31, 2023 The Canadian wildfire burning about 600 miles from Newark has damaged about 200 houses and other structures and prompted the evacuation of 16,000 people in the coastal province The area under mandatory evacuation orders covers about 38 square miles. The forecast in Nova Scotia is calling for hotter weather on Wednesday and no rain until Friday at the earliest. In New Jersey, skies should clear on Thursday as temperatures climb into the 80s. On Friday, highs will flirt with 90 before a cooler weekend with temps topping out in the 70s. Some rain is possible on Saturday, forecasters say. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Tommy Kahnle plans to return to the Yankees with a new weapon. Of his 19 pitches thrown in a rehab start for Triple-A Scranton Wilkes-Barre on Sunday, six were sinkers. Kahnle, who is on the injured list with bicep tendinitis, has re-worked that pitch into his arsenal throughout his first four rehab assignments. BUY YANKEES TICKETS: STUBHUB, VIVID SEATS, TICKETMASTER My (four-seam) fastball isnt what it was, and I just needed something different, just another look, Kahnle said, via Conor Foley of the Scranton Times-Tribune. Kahnle reunited with the Yankees this season after spending much of the last three years dealing with injury. The 33-year-old signed a two-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers in December of 2020, knowing he would miss the 2021 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery. Kahnle missed three months last season with forearm inflammation before returning to the Dodgers bullpen for the stretch run. In December, he returned to the Bronx on a two-year, $11.5 million contract. Want to bet on MLB? See the best NJ Sports Betting sites The Yankees had acquired Kahnle from the Chicago White Sox before the 2017 non-waiver trade deadline in the deal which also brought third baseman Todd Frazier and reliever David Robertson to the Bronx. Kahnle appeared in 129 games with the Yankees over the parts of four seasons, compiling a 4.01 ERA. MORE MLB: - Ex-Yankees outfielder, back from the minors, is winning games again - Heres what Padres are saying about signing ex-Yankees, Mets catcher Gary Sanchez - Mets catcher takes next step in rehab assignment Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription. Bridget Hyland may be reached at bhyland@njadvancemedia.com. Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost. If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below. 10:02 | Lima, May. 31. Intelligence and Joint Special Operations Command (CIOEC). Via Legislative Resolution No. 31758, published in the Official Gazette El Peruano on Wednesday, it specified that special operation activities will be carried out with the Similarly, these include the Joint Special Forces (FEC), the Peruvian Navy Special Operations Forces (FOE), the Peruvian Air Force Special Forces Group (GRUFE), the Peruvian National Police Anti-Drug Directorate (DIRANDRO) or the Peruvian National Police Special Forces Directorate (DIROES). The training sessions will take place in Lima, Callao, Loreto, San Martin, Santa Lucia, Huanuco, Ucayali, Pasco, Junin, Huancavelica, Cusco, Ayacucho, Iquitos, Pucusana, and Apurimac regions. U.S. military personnel will be authorized to enter Peru with weapons of war, for the purposes set forth in this resolution. Military exercise Peruvian Government authorized the entry of air resources, nautical resources, and military personnel from the United States, with the purpose of carrying out training cooperation activities with the Armed Forces, associated with the Resolute Sentinel 2023 international military exercise. Via Legislative Resolution No. 31757 , the, with the purpose of The entry of foreign military personnel will be on different dates, but in no case will it exceed the deadline of August 29, 2023, to withdraw from the territory of the Republic of Peru. The Louisiana House Education Committee Wednesday voted 6-5 to kill a proposal asking public schools to report to the state any programming related to critical race theory; diversity, equity, and inclusion; or transformative social emotional learning, all of which have become targets for Republicans nationally. House Resolution 13, by Denham Springs Republican Rep Valarie Hodges, would have had K-12 schools and colleges provide data on the programs or activities, including their purpose, how many people were working on them and how much money they cost. Monty Sullivan, president of Louisianas Community and Technical College System, said that by asking schools only about the funding of diversity, equity and inclusion programs which seek to include all people and make sure theyre treated fairly and not about their outcomes, the proposal was racist. You're asking people of color to justify why they need resources spent on them, Sullivan said. At its core, this is a racist instrument. Both Hodges and committee member Houma Republican Rep. Beryl Amedee, who ultimately voted for it, said they were offended by the insinuation that they were supporting a racist policy, insisting the proposal merely created a reporting mechanism. But Hodges proposal comes as Republicans both nationally and locally are trying to end diversity, equity and inclusion efforts altogether. The Louisiana Republican Party urged lawmakers last month to ban colleges from having diversity, equity and inclusion departments or agencies. Lawmakers in other states have attempted similar bans, many based on model legislation from national conservative think tanks the Manhattan Institute and Goldwater Institute, according to the Associated Press. We know its a national agenda item, said Rep. Tammy Phelps, a Shreveport Democrat. Its unclear what would have been considered a diversity, equity and inclusion program or activity under the bill. Sullivan said that while the community and technical college system does not have many offices and positions specifically labeled diversity, equity and inclusion, that the universitys entire mission is diversity, equity and inclusion getting as many people in the state to go to college as possible. He said current efforts are focusing on recruiting Black men as well as white men in rural areas to attend community and technical colleges. Imagine that diversity, equity and inclusion might include people that look like me, said Sullivan, who is white. Kim Hunter Reed, Louisianas Commissioner of Higher Education, said that to her knowledge no public Louisiana universities have a department for critical race theory, a higher-level framework that examines the impacts of systemic racism. Rep. Vincent St. Blanc, a Franklin Republican, said he played a role in hiring Sullivan, Reed and UL System President Jim Henderson, who also testified in the committee, and based his vote against the measure Wednesday on their testimony. I cannot go against something that I was a part of establishing, he said. I have a big problem with this [resolution], and Im going to do the right thing. Rep. Barbara Freiberg, a Baton Rouge Republican, joined St. Blanc and Democrats in killing the measure. Sonya Duhe, who recently left Loyola University's communications school after a decade as its director, was abruptly nixed as the next journalism dean at Arizona State University after ASU began investigating allegations by more than 20 former Loyola students who said Duhe had a history of making racist and insensitive comments. ASU had announced Duhes hiring on March 6. She was set to officially become dean of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication on July 1, but ASU terminated the contract Sunday night amid a growing furor over the allegations, which had been covered by student newspapers at both universities. A group of ASU students started a petition that garnered more than 3,000 signatures calling for the university to rescind Duhes appointment. Cronkite faculty members also sent a letter to ASU President Michael Crow asking for a meeting and expressing concerns about "erratic behavior and denigrating comments" during Duhes interactions with ASU staff in the past two weeks. Loyola University officials said late Sunday that they will proceed with plans to hire a successor for Sonya Duhe as director of the School of Communication in Design. Duhe, who had been headed to a deanship at Arizona State University that was rescinded Sunday over allegations of racist comments, will not be coming back to the university in any capacity, officials said. +2 Arizona State rescinds offer to former Loyola director Sonya Duhe amid racism allegations Sonya Duhe, who recently left Loyola University's school of mass communication after a decade as its director, has been nixed as the next jour "Dr. Duhe submitted her resignation from Loyola when she accepted the deanship at ASU," said Loyola spokeswoman Patricia Murret. "We will continue our national search for a new director, as planned. Lisa Collins now serves as interim director of the School of Communication and Design." Murret said that the university's president, Tania Tetlow, planned to release a letter Monday addressing the situation. Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Rishi Sunak has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day, Azernews reports. The letter reads: His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Dear President Aliyev, I am writing to wish you the best for the Baku Energy Week. With the pressing twin challenges of tackling climate change and strengthening energy security, Baku Energy Weeks ability to convene international thought leaders from the public and private sector has never been more important. Azerbaijans role as a reliable energy partner is important in the global energy landscape. Azerbaijans commitment to increase its natural gas supplies to Europe by 20 billion cubic meters by 2027 is already contributing to Europes energy security. Diversity of supply is key to ending Russias use of energy as a geopolitical weapon. I also applaud your efforts to develop Azerbaijans huge renewable energy potential and become a green energy exporter. Your plans to expand cooperation on energy transition with European partners will be key to achieving these goals. The establishment of the first Green Energy Advisory Council of the Southern Gas Corridor and the Black Sea Submarine cable project, which aims to transfer renewable electricity from Azerbaijan to Europe, are particularly promising. Over the past two years, the United Kingdom has supported Azerbaijans energy transition through capacity-building and awareness-raising programmes. These initiatives not only contribute to a more sustainable energy future for Azerbaijan but also help to build resilience against the impact of climate change. During Baku Energy Week, we will launch a new publication that brings together key insights from some of these initiatives. It will highlight how UK companies can support Azerbaijan to solve some of its energy transition challenges. I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm the United Kingdoms commitment to working with Azerbaijan and other international partners in the energy sector, to accelerate our collective efforts to transition to clean energy and tackle climate change. I hope Baku Energy Week is a huge success. Sincerely, Rishi Sunak Prime Minister of the United Kingdom #LOULTIMO Juez Victor Zuniga, titular del 4to Juzgado de Investigacion Preparatoria de la Corte Nacional, ordena impedimento de salida del pais por 36 meses contra Keiko Fujimori, Jaime Yoshiyama, Mark Vito Villanella y otros, en investigacion por lavado de activos. #CasoCocteles pic.twitter.com/uanp39sc5g WASHINGTON Baton Rouge lawyer Darrel Papillion became one of the few judicial presidential picks to easily clear the U.S. Senate's confirmation process when the Senate Tuesday confirmed him to a lifetime appointment on the U.S. District Court in New Orleans. The full Senate confirmed Papillion, a French-speaking Creole who grew up in Acadiana, with a vote of 59 to 31. The 55-year-old trial lawyer blew through the confirmation process in a staggeringly short 10 weeks. That's far from the norm for a Senate that has criticized most of Democratic President Joe Bidens judicial nominations and delayed confirming them, sometimes for months. Papillion wouldnt be before us today but for the fact that two Louisiana senators reached an agreement with the Biden White House, said U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, the Illinois Democrat who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee. The damage fee for the Interoceanic project has been set under a sentence, which is why it is said to be res judicata. This payment shall be made annually. "To date, the Peruvian State has received S/260 million (about US$70.8 million) out of S/610 million (about US$166.1 million) plus another S/140 million (about US$38.1 million) in interest although this interest will be settled at the end of the last installment," she said in statements to RPP. Carrion underlined that the effective collaboration agreement signed with Odebrecht for four projects, including the Interoceanic Highway case, determined the criminal and civil terms in a 2019 ruling that established criminal responsibilities and damages. In this regard, the Peruvian State Attorney stated that, following the latest decision by Judge Richard Concepcion Carhuancho, Odebrecht was excluded from the payment for the Interoceanic project in the open process, since it is already paying a damage sum, and this has been stipulated in the collaboration agreement. "This decision was promoted by the legal defense teams (of the companies involved), which do not want to pay damages," she pointed put. "Moreover, it (this decision) undermines the basis of the (collaboration) agreement, because Odebrecht has announced that the principle of res judicata is being affected," Carrion added. Likewise, the Peruvian State Attorney underscored that there is confusion among citizens regarding the fact that Odebrecht is not going to pay damages for the Interoceanic project. "That is not correct. It (Odebrecht) is already paying a damage sum under the effective collaboration sentence. So, it is paying, and it is going to pay for that project," she remarked. (END) JCC/CVC/RMB/MVB To date, Brazilian construction company Odebrecht has paid S/260 million (about US$70.8 million) in damages to the Peruvian State, thus meeting the payment schedule it committed to, Peruvian State Attorney in the Lava Jato case, Silvana Carrion , affirmed.Publicado: 31/5/2023 ? La presidenta Dina Boluarte, junto con los integrantes del Consejo de Ministros y personal del Despacho Presidencial, participo en el primer Simulacro Nacional Multipeligro 2023. La evacuacion se realizo en el Patio de Honor de Palacio de Gobierno. #ConPunchePeru pic.twitter.com/DeGE0wtSOa Ahora | El premier Alberto Otarola participa en el #SimulacroNacional2023, que lidera la presidenta Dina Boluarte. Junto con los titulares del @MindefPeru y @MininterPeru se evalua el despliegue de los equipos de rescate y primeros auxilios en la Plaza de Armas. pic.twitter.com/jc8U0qGsdv Anthony Ramos and Dominique Fishback had been dreaming about writing something together for a few years. The two actors, both native New Yorkers, would meet up from time to time and talk about what it could be. They knew that it would have to be epic and so Brooklyn. But they would have never predicted that their first chance would come in the form of a Transformers movie. We had no idea it would be this epic and this Brooklyn, Fishback told The Associated Press, sitting beside Ramos, her friend and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts co-star in Las Vegas last month. Theyd made the journey to attend CinemaCon, a convention of the worlds theater owners to help drum up buzz for the new film that debuts June 9. Though technically the seventh Transformers movie, Rise of the Beasts is both a franchise prequel, set in 1994, and sequel to 2018s Bumblebee, which was set in the 1980s. Director Steven Caple Jr. (Creed II) took the helm for this globetrotting film that pairs the Autobots with the Maximals, another faction of transformers, in the fight to save Earth. Peter Cullen returns to voice Optimus Prime in a diverse cast that also includes Ron Perlman, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Michaela Jae Rodriguez, Pete Davidson, Colman Domingo and Cristo Fernandez. Caple didnt know when he started casting that Ramos (In the Heights) and Fishback (Judas and the Black Messiah) knew one another. They were both just separately on his list to read for Noah, an ex-military man and electronics expert, and Elena, an artifacts researcher at a museum. That they came in as friends meant that the chemistry test was great. But early in filming, Caple had to remind them that their characters dont know each other well yet. We were too familiar, Ramos laughed. The two actors met around 2017, when Ramos performed a reading of something Fishback had written. They started piecing together their six degrees of separation, with Ramos having grown up in Bushwick and Fishback in East New York, and all the times they (asterisk)could(asterisk) have met. But even after a major blockbuster that took them from Montreal to Machu Picchu, theyre still learning things about one another. Both, they realized during the interview, had been rejected by LaGuardia, the famed New York performing arts school. High five, Fishback said. Team reject, baby! Ramos grew up watching Transformers on Saturday mornings. One of his first toys was even the Stingray Transformer, one of the characters from the Beast Wars storyline that the new movie draws on, which made him feel like a kid again. I would wait every weekend for the newest episode to drop," Ramos said earlier on stage. "Being a part of Transformers universe is beyond my wildest dreams. My 13-year-old self would be like, Yo, thats fire. Fishback came in a little reticent, knowing that sometimes character can get lost in big, GCI-driven spectacles. Sometimes theyre toying with the idea of adding a person of color, but you dont really know if theyre going to go into who the person actually is, Fishback said. Steven affirmed that that was not the case. He wanted it to be authentically Brooklyn, he wanted Elena to have autonomy over her body, her mind and the things that she wanted to achieve in life, and that we would know that she had things that she wanted to achieve. And that was important. One of the highlights of the shoot was filming in Peru, at Machu Picchu. They used local kids as extras, had a Shaman come to bless the production and had oxygen tanks at the ready for anyone having trouble acclimating to the elevation. And theyre excited about the possibility for more films, but that all depends on the audience. Stevens already working on the next one, Ramos said. But it all comes down to whether people go see it. It seems like people are really excited by the trailer. So hopefully they take that excitement and get some tickets to go see it in a movie theater. Tell your friends, take your family. This is a movie you can see multiple times. To mark Lovinas 52nd birthday on May 22, each of her children have contributed these short reflections in her honor. Were sharing the first half of them today, and will share the second half next week. Elizabeth, 28 There are many stories I could write about my mom. Ill try to keep it short. As a school-age child, I remember coming home from school eager to tell Mom all about my day. I'm sure at times those silly school stories were a bit boring for her, but she listened with open ears. I remember helping Mom mow lawn. We would both use a self-propelled walk behind lawnmower. I enjoyed it! I have always liked mowing lawns, so I didn't consider it work. I remember laughing, trying to keep up with Mom. When age sweet 16 came for me, I was overly excited. As most young Amish girls are at that age, I was filled with anticipation about the next step in life. After Tim would bring me home from Saturday evenings at the youth center, or from Sunday night singings (as we call it), wedding dinners, etc., I loved to tell Mom the stories of my evening. Mom and I (and my siblings) have become best of friends over the years of us growing up. As we continue to move on with our lives, Mom is there with us each step of the way. She always has advice and love to give us, and I know she prays for us always. Now, being the mother of four children, I realize the love, patience, and many prayers it takes to raise a child. My mom is a strong woman! She conquered many challenges that came her waynot just in motherhood, but in life itself. She is a true inspiration and a wonderful loving mom/grandma! Mom, I hope you have a wonderful 52nd birthday. We love you! Susan, 27 To this day I still ask Mom how to do some of the canning or sewing, and I'm married with children. Moms never stop being a mom. She was a good teacher if we listened. Some of us could be a little hard-headedlike me when she tried to teach me how to sew. Now I wish I would have listened. There are a lot of memories with Mom. One memory I have is when Mom sang with all of us girls. She taught us how to sing praise to God. I also recall waking up in the morning and hearing Mom singing in the kitchen while preparing breakfast. The house would smell like bacon. I would lay there just listening to Mom. I love to hear her sing. Happy 52nd birthday, Mom. May God bless you. Love you. Verena, 25 Monday, May 22 is my moms birthday, so I had all my siblings write a story they remember with her or just write something in honor of her birthday. I have many, many stories I could write down, but I would never get done. I want to thank my mom for being my biggest supportshe is always there for me and the rest of her children. Which I know we all appreciate very much! I remember the days that Mom would put all five of us girls hair up for us. Having our long hair combed would sometimes make us say oww from a tangle. Dad would always sit there and ask us, "What kind of bird are you?" Mom would tug at our hair a little and we'd say, "Oww" (Owl). Ha! Mom used to play kickball with us when we were all younger. Every time it was her turn to kick the ball, I would run in the house and go upstairs and hide because I worried she'd hurt herself. I always looked up to her, and I still do, so I never liked to see mom hurt or do anything that could get her hurt. The reason I worried so much about her playing kickball was because she did get a blood clot when the ball hit one of her veins one of the times. Living on my own is a good experience. I see how often I depended on my mom, and I still do. When I dealt with my brain injury, it was very scary to me, and I remember how Mom and my sister Susan were my biggest comforters. I thank God every day for giving me such a great mom. I asked her what she wanted to do for her birthday and she said she had no plans, but she deserves to have a good birthday and every birthday should be celebrated. The plans as of right now are to gather at Dad and Mom's on Monday night to have a birthday supper for her. Happy 52nd birthday to Mom! I love you. VALPARAISO Green seedlings poked through a yellow blanket of dead rye grass. From the road, the property looks like a typical Porter County corn field. However, unlike many of the surrounding farms, this land won't be turned into a subdivision. It's protected by a land trust. Common goals With nature preserves in Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Marshall, Starke and St. Joseph counties, the Shirley Heinze Land Trust has preserved thousands of acres of land. Over the years, the organization has slowly grown its headquarters at Meadowbrook Nature Preserve in Valparaiso. Now about 300 acres, Meadowbrook is largely filled with lush forest, wetlands and pockets of prairie. However, the trust has decided to use a 51-acre patch as a sort of demonstration space. A space to showcase best management farming practices. When Tom Murphy first heard Shirley Heinze was interested in the 51-acre property he thought 'they were a bunch of tree-huggers.' Murphy, a first generation farmer, had already been leasing the land and farming it. When the elderly owners decided to sell, the property almost met an all-too-familiar fate development. That's when Murphy began talking to Shirley Heinze and realized, "we kind of have the same goals." "Theres subdivisions going up on every corner," Murphy said. "You guys want woods and I want farmland." Though the land trust has been conserving land for over four decades, agriculture was "not a space Shirley Heinze traditionally engaged with," project manager Alicia Pellegrino said. A few years ago the organization began working with local farmers, learning about some of sustainable practices they were implementing and connecting them with state and federal resources. Pellegrino said implementing 'best management' farming practices can have a lot of mutual benefits for both the farmer and the surrounding environment. We are talking about the same things, just using different languages," Pellegrino said For Murphy 'best management' farming practices have a lot to do with soil health. Growing corn, soybeans and some milo on about 3,000 acres of leased land outside Chesterton, Murphy has been practicing no-till agriculture for about seven years. For decades farmers have turned over the first few inches of soil before planting new crops. The practice aerates the soil and removes weeds, however it also can kill important microbes, eroding soil health. Murphy began experimenting with no-till on about 40 acres of land in Burns Harbor that was experiencing erosion. It was low organic-matter soil, it was basically sand," Murphy said. Though the transition took a few years, Murphy said the farm's yield has "skyrocketed" in recent years. Now 45-50% of his land is no-till. He also started planting cover crops, crops grown to ensure the soil is not left bare between harvests. Cover crops also help reduce erosion and improve soil health. "So long as there is something green and growing" in the earth, the soil microbes remain active, Murphy explained. Active microbes help make important nutrients more available for plants. Murphy said he often "plants green," aka: seeds his corn directly into the cover crop and then kills the cover crop about a week later. This practice ensures all the nutrients in the cover crop go directly towards feeding the corn seedlings. The nutrients that most farmers are spreading are already held in the soil, theyre just tied-up by the microbes," Murphy explained. These best practices allow Murphy to rely more on the nutrients that already exist in the soil rather than adding mass amounts of commercial fertilizer. Instead he is able to "spoon feed" fertilizer, only adding a small amount of additives to the areas that need it. With less excess fertilizer, there's less runoff into streams and lakes and less toxic algal blooms. Ive got young kids and if they want to farm and all our soil goes down into the creek and winds up in Lake Michigan, there's not going to be anything worth farming," Murphy said. "We all want better water quality." Murphy will use the Meadowbrook property to demonstrate these best practices. This summer he planted corn on the land; next summer he plans on working with Shirley Heinze to create some natural waterways in the fields, restoring land that has been eroded by natural spring. A growing partnership Shirley Heinze has already hosted a number of field days at the property, using the events as opportunities to highlight the work being done by local farmers and to connect farmers with resources. More information is available at heinzetrust.org/farms. One of the biggest barriers has been getting older farmers to change their practices. When no-till agriculture first become popular in Northwest Indiana in the 1990's the technology wasn't as good and some farmers almost lost their farms due to low yields, Murphy explained. Experimenting with your land can be risky extremely risky, especially as property prices in the Region continue rise. About 30-40% of the land Murphy is currently farming he leases from developers. During the pandemic, when the housing market was booming, Murphy lost some 300 acres. It could be a subdivision tomorrow," Murphy said. "Almost any farmer you talk to in this area is farming at least two or three pieces of ground that are slated for subdivisions... unfortunately its the nature of the beast up here." In 2007, the average value of an acre of farmland in Lake County was $3,961. As of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2017 farming census that number had jumped to $6,966. Every year, more and more farmland is lost. A 2022 study by the American Farmland Trust found that the U.S. lost 11 million acres of farmland, or about 2,000 acres of farmland and ranchland a day, between 2001 and 2016. About 7 million acres of farmland was converted to low-density residential areas. The remaining 4 million acres of farmland were lost to the construction of commercial buildings, industrial sites and other urban growth. Pellegrino said if Shirley Heinze can secure additional farmland they hope to partner with more local farmers, creating more spaces to demonstrate best practices. The organization also works with farmers to create conservation easements, which ensure properties remain available as farmland in the future. "I think it goes both ways because I think there's some people in the conservation world that maybe don't view farmers as somebody we should be partnering with," Pellegrino said. "People don't understand that farming can also be conservation." PHOTOS: Shirley Heinze Nature Walk An American Community Bank financial adviser has been accredited to work with employer-sponsored retirement plans. Tira Clement, a financial adviser for American Financial Services, American Community Bank's wealth management division, earned the Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor designation. It reflects proficiency in working with employer-sponsored retirement plans like 401Ks. Developed by retirement plan experts and financial advisors, the credential demonstrates knowledge and expertise in administering the commonly employee-sponsored benefit. Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisors can help business clients maintain compliance, review financial status, recommend solutions to any retirement issues that crop up for employees and find potential concerns in established plans. A 401K retirement plan is an important benefit for a business, so my CPFA designation should help to reassure a local business owner or plan administrator that I can offer real insight and assistance with their retirement plan," she said. "Plus, I can help their participants as well." She works at the Crown Point office of the bank, which also has offices in Munster, Hammond, Dyer and Schererville. With this designation, I offer local Northwest Indiana businesses a unique and valuable skill set that is not held by many financial advisors," she said. Established as The First Polish Building Loan & Savings Association in the St. Casimir School in Hammond in 1910, the bank originally served Northwest Indiana's large Polish community. It's now a third-generation family-owned bank that changed its charter to a state of Indiana commercial bank in 2015. Previously known as the American Savings and Loan Association and American Savings FSB, the community bank mainly deals in deposits and mortgages but also does commercial real estate lending, consumer loans, mortgage-backed securities and investment securities like bonds. " " A Pallas's cat and her kitten at the Novosibirsk Zoo in Russia. The Pallas's cat, also known as a manul cat, is a small wildcat native to the steppes of Central Asia. Kirill Kukhmar/TASS/Getty Images Furry, funny and fascinating, the Pallas's cat (Otocolobus manul) is perhaps one of the most expressive felines in the world. Also known as the manul cat, these fluffy felines get their star quality from their repertoire of quirky facial expressions. Pallas's cats are found throughout Central Asia, with the largest populations thought to be in Mongolia and Russia, where they've long held a level of celebrity status playing the role of mascot for the Moscow Zoo for over 30 years. Pallas's cats, as well as an assortment of birds, mammals and plants, get their name from Peter Simon Pallas, a German zoologist who was the first to describe them. Pallas is known for his role in the first Russian Siberian expedition to survey the Russian Empire in the 18th century. Advertisement The Pallas's cats' famous expression appears cantankerous in part due to their flat faces, which have large, owl-like eyes with round pupils. Their bodies aren't actually as large as they appear, and aren't as big as one might expect of a wildcat. Under all that grayish-brown fur, the longest and densest in the feline world, they're about the size of an average house cat. So why all that fluff? It's less about size and more about having a camouflaged winter parka the abundance of long fur helps them stay warm in the frigid temperatures of their high-altitude habitat while keeping them hidden from deadly predators. Pallas's cats are also known for their adorably small ears, which, it turns out, play a crucial part in their survival. Jim Sanderson, Ph.D., with the Small Wild Cat Conservation Foundation, shares in an email interview, "Winter in the Asian steppe, especially at high latitudes in Mongolia and north into Russia and the windswept grasslands of Kazakhstan, can be brutally cold. Large ears like those of a jackrabbit give off a lot of body heat, an advantage in the hot desert like the Sonoran desert but a disadvantage in cold places. (Having) no ears would be best, but Pallas's cats must also listen for rodents, so they need ears. Evolution has produced the perfect compromise." Cleveland-Cliffs, one of Northwest Indiana's largest industrial employers, has been benefiting from rising demand from automotive customers. The Cleveland-based steelmaker has been seeing orders pick up. It shipped 4.1 million tons of steel in the first quarter, getting the most orders it ever has from the automotive clients who make up its core business. Cleveland-Cliffs said it has been running all of its steelmaking shops at full capacity this year. "During the past quarter, order release rates from our automotive clients were the strongest and the most consistent we have seen since becoming a steel company three years ago. Also, service center buying behavior in the first quarter came back to more normal levels," Chairman, President and CEO Lourenco Goncalves said in a conference call with investors. "These two factors, combined with reduced imports of flat-rolled steel, forced the buyers to increase their order levels with domestic producers." Scrap metal prices also have been picking up of late. "The excess scrap and metallics inventories that were built by other steel companies in response to the war in Ukraine were ultimately drawn down, forcing scrap prices back to what we believe are higher but is still acceptable and sustainable levels. We used all of these factors in our favor to implement several spot price increases, which have ultimately driven index pricing higher," he said in the conference call. "Our conviction that this country's prime scrap and metallic shortage will continue to tighten over the coming years is at the core of our strategy. Last year's strange scrap movement in the second half of the year has been proving to be an outlier and the prime scrap market is back in a shortage position. There is less than 20 million tons of annual prime scrap and metallic supply in North America currently. And unless you are a producer of only rebar and nothing else, you need prime scrap and metallics." Demand for scrap metal exceeds supply, Goncalves said. "We anticipate that with the new electric arc furnace coming online, demand for prime scrap and metallics will be at 30 million tons by 2026. This will require significant levels of imported metallics. The largest sources of these imports up until last year were Russia and Ukraine," Goncalves said. "More than a year after the invasion of Ukraine, that import avenue remains heavily disrupted. Said another way, unless one is rerouting Russian supply through other countries for transshipment, which is, by the way, illegal, they cannot get all the feedstock they need. Because prime scrap is a byproduct of manufacturing, and we, as a country, have been moving manufacturing offshore. Prime scrap supply has been shrinking in this country for over 50 years, bringing more manufacturing back to the United States over the coming years should help alleviate the situation, but that will take time." The company is poised to capitalize on the scrap shortage since it's a fully integrated steelmaker that can produce new steel. "The alternative to address the scrap shortage would be additional metallics production, but that requires iron ore," he said. "As the largest producer of iron ore pellets in North America, this plays right into our favor. For the majority of the last three decades, flat-rolled steel production with EAFs took advantage of cheap and plentiful prime scrap. This historical situation is changing fast." New steelmaking capacity has been coming online but it doesn't compete for Cleveland-Cliffs' core business, Goncalves said. "Greenfield flat-rolled production from electric arc furnaces also plays into our favor in the automotive market. As some EAF start-ups have been demonstrating for a few quarters now, the metallurgical challenge in automotive is too big for them," Goncalves said. "This fact, along with our customer service and our R&D capabilities are the three main reasons why Cleveland-Cliffs remains the supplier of choice to the automotive industry in the United States. That also helped us achieve annual price increases from all and each one of our major automotive clients." Selling price, unit costs and steel volumes have been improving and boosting the company's bottom line, Chief Financial Officer Celso Goncalves said. "We guided to a first quarter implied selling price of around $1,120 per ton and realized around $1,130. We indicated that unit costs would decline by $50 per ton and they declined by $60. We said volumes would rise to around 4 million tons, and we delivered 4.1 million," he said. Most importantly, we set the stage for another highly profitable year in 2023, which we expect to further materialize with a much higher second-quarter EBITDA and strong free cash flow generation in the last three quarters of the year." VALPARAISO A hearing has been scheduled for Monday afternoon to determine if a 17-year-old Ohio boy will be waived to adult court to face charges of calling in threats and causing panic at multiple area schools earlier this year. The waiver is being sought by Porter County prosecutors, who argued in a petition that the alleged acts were "heinous or aggravated" and that the teen is "beyond rehabilitation under the juvenile justice system." "It is in the best interest of the safety and welfare of the community that the child stand trial as an adult," the waiver petition reads. The hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Monday in Circuit Court Judge Mary DeBoer's court, Porter County Deputy Prosecutor John Shanahan said. The teen, whom The Times is not naming as long as his case remains in juvenile court, is charged with impersonating a public servant stemming from a Jan. 4 call to Valparaiso police of a supposed shooting, according to a charging document. Officials said the youth, who was 16 at the time, falsely portrayed himself as a special agent with the FBI. He is further charged with two counts of intimidation, which would be felonies in adult court, in relation to threats he allegedly made to several area schools earlier this year. The intimidation charges claim that on Jan. 26, the teen "threatened to use a weapon or weapons of mass destruction to commit mass murder" at Valparaiso and Portage high schools. Shanahan has said the teen began Jan. 4 by calling Valparaiso police and falsely reporting that someone had been shot in the city. He then allegedly contacted Valparaiso High School on Jan. 9 and reported a bomb in the building, and then called in another threat to the school Jan. 17. On Jan. 26, the youth called in threats to schools in Valparaiso, Portage, Hobart and Wheeler, Shanahan said. Tips sought on missing Region boy Anyone with information about the boy's whereabouts is encouraged to call 1-800-843-5678 or the Gary Police Department at 219-881-7300. The teen is being housed at the Porter County Juvenile Detention Center after a determination was made that he poses a threat. The teen was arrested Jan. 26 in Ohio, and all the threats he is accused of making proved to be noncredible, officials have said. But the threats sent schools scrambling into lockdown or lockout status. The Jan. 9 call to Valparaiso High School resulted in a lockdown and early release of students, police said. A false threat of violence Jan. 17 at the same school triggered a lockout response from police and disrupted school operations. The Portage Police Department said in a social media post at the time that the local high school had "received an anonymous phone call in which a person threatened violence later in the day," prompting its lockdown. Hobart police said the caller didn't specify a school in the threat there, "but erring on the side of caution, Superintendent (Peggy) Buffington ordered the schools to be locked down." Wheeler High School had implemented a lockout, officials said. HAMMOND A federal judge has imprisoned a man who joined a consumer fraud scheme that victimized hundreds across North America. Senior U.S. District Court Judge James Moody imposed a 54-month sentence Wednesday on Rico Prunty, 41, of Sierra Vista, Arizona. Prunty pleaded guilty in December 2020 to aggravated identity theft and knowing disclosure of another persons health information with intent to sell, transfer, or use it for personal gain. He admitted accessing the customer record files of an Arizona medical facility, where he previously worked, to steal the personal information of hundreds of its patients. Federal prosecutors alleged he and three Region residents worked together to steal more than $132,000 from 652 persons living in 15 states, including Indiana, as well as Canada. Moody already has imposed prison time on Pruntys 38-year-old brother Vincent E. Prunty, as well as Vincent Pruntys 43-year-old girlfriend, Temika L. Coleman, and her 47-year-old brother Gemico T. Childress. They all lived at a variety of Northwest Indiana and Illinois residences before their arrests and incarcerations. The case is one of a growing number of identity theft schemes that have impacted more than 16 million victims and reaped stolen goods worth more than $16 billion, the government stated in court papers. Federal authorities looking into reports of this identity theft six years ago raided an apartment building on Waltham Street in Hammond. Investigators found evidence of victims' personal information being used to manufacture fraudulent credit cards, purchase cellphones, open telephone accounts and open other fraudulent accounts under victims names. The judge ordered Prunty to pay $132,521.98 in restitution to the victims of the offense. Co-conspirators Vincent Prunty, Temika Coleman and Gemico Childress were previously sentenced for their roles in the scheme to terms of imprisonment of 154 months, 121 months and 134 months, respectively. Swifties from across the Region are being treated to nearly door-to-door train service for the upcoming string of Taylor Swift concerts at Soldier Field in Chicago. The operators of the South Shore passenger train service announced Wednesday that a limited number of trains will be stopping at Metra's 18th Street Station, which connects directly to a pedestrian walkway to the stadium. The special stops will be taking place to serve the 6:30 p.m. concerts planned for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. "As 18th St. Station is not a regularly scheduled stop, SSL passengers utilizing 18th St. for this event should purchase tickets for Museum Campus/11th Street," according to the South Shore Line. Cant get Taylor Swift tickets? See all of Swifts eras on display at this costume exhibit Taylor Swift has been breaking records and delighting fans on the U.S. leg of her Eras Tour, a splashy celebration of her career and new relea Busing continues between the Gary Metro Center and Carroll Avenue stations, the services provider said. "Due to limited bus capacity, passengers are strongly advised to board at Gary Metro Center, East Chicago, Hammond or Hegewisch stations." The South Shore Line released a chart listing the trains making the concert stops. Photos: 'Taylor Swift: Storyteller' exhibit in NYC The Indiana Court of Appeals has affirmed the murder conviction of a Chicago man who shot and killed a 14-year-old girl whose body was found with her hands bound in a Gary alley. Deonlashawn C. Simmons, 37, was sentenced to 105 years in prison, including firearm and habitual offender enhancements, for killing Takaylah Tribitt in September 2019, according to court records. Simmons argued in his appeal that the trial court erred by admitting certain firearm and video evidence, and that the evidence overall was insufficient to support a murder conviction. The appeals court was unpersuaded. In a 3-0 decision, it found the evidence presented at Simmons' trial either comported with Indiana trial rules or any error was harmless. As to the prosecutor's overall evidentiary burden, the appellate judges said that while the case against Simmons was circumstantial, it also was substantial. They noted, for example, multiple electronic records putting the perpetrator and victim in the same place at the same time over several days prior to the killing, Simmons' likely DNA on the spark plug cord used to bind Tribitt's hands, and a gun frame and magazine that could have been used in the crime found hidden in the trunk of Simmons' vehicle. "The web of facts here was sufficient to convince the jury beyond a reasonable doubt that Simmons killed (Tribitt)," the court said. Gallery: Indiana historical markers in the Region First Physician Great Sauk (Sac) Trail St. John's Lutheran Church Tolleston Dutch in the Calumet Region St. John Township School, District #2 The Lincoln Highway/The Ideal Section The Lincoln Highway/The Ideal Section Froebel School - side 1 Froebel School Stewart Settlement House Stewart Settlement House Origin of Dr. MLK Day Law Origin of Dr. MLK Day Law Bailly Homestead Iron Brigade Willow Creek Confrontation Ogden ski jump.jpg Teale 1.jpg Teale 2.jpg Steel 1.jpg Steel 2.jpg Civil War camps.jpg Old lighthouse.jpg Railroad.jpg Camp Anderson.jpg Boundary line 1.jpg Boundary line 2.jpg LaPorte courthouse 1.jpg LaPorte courthouse 2.jpg Carnegie 1.jpg Carnegie 2.jpg Rumely Co 1.jpg Rumely Co 2.jpg Lincoln train 1.jpg Lincoln train 2.jpg LaPorte university 1.jpg Laporte university 2.jpg Gary Roosevelt 1 Gary Roosevelt 2 Old National Bank, Indiana's largest bank, is moving its downtown Louisville branch after a mass shooting there in April. The Evansville-based bank, which gained a major retail footprint in Northwest Indiana after buying out First Midwest Bank, suffered a tragedy in April when a disgruntled employee with an AR-15 assault rifle stormed into its branch in Louisville's Central Business District, killed five and injured eight, including two police officers. Old National Bank is now moving both its downtown Louisville business operations and retail banking center from the site of the mass shooting at Preston Pointe to a new spot at 400 W. Market St. It expects to complete the move by June 26. "We mourn the losses and continue to support and care for the victims of the tragic event on April 10, said Old National Bank CEO Jim Ryan. Out of respect for the Old National team members lost and impacted, we have made the determination to move to a new downtown location. Old National is taking over a former bank branch previously occupied by Stock Yards Bank & Trust. On behalf of our full Louisville team, I want to share how excited and grateful we are for this opportunity to continue to serve, and be active participants in, the vibrant downtown Louisville community, said Dennis Heishman, Old Nationals Louisville market president. I also want to convey our immense gratitude for the love and care we continue to receive from our friends in the community. Your kindness and support mean the world to us. The new location is in a 34-story skyscraper in downtown Louisville that overlooks the Ohio River and southern Indiana. About 12,000 square feet of space is being renovated on the 25th floor of the building for banking offices. We are deeply grateful to Stock Yards Bank & Trust CEO Ja Hillebrand and his team for generously offering and working to consolidate their downtown retail space allowing us to quickly transition to the historic 400 West Market building, said Ryan. We also want to thank the numerous organizations and individuals that have reached out to us with messages of love, care and support over the past several weeks. We are deeply moved and sincerely appreciate the outpouring of kindness and compassion. The bank donated more than $1 billion after the mass shooting, giving money to the Love for Louisville Old National Survivors Fund, the Louisville Metro Police Foundation, the University of Louisville Hospital Trauma Center and the American Red Cross. Two state tax attorneys and one from an Indianapolis law firm are the finalists to fill a vacancy in the sole judicial post at the specialized, appellate-level Indiana Tax Court. The Indiana Judicial Nominating Commission recently recommended Kevin Halloran, Justin McAdam and Patrick Price to Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb out of the 10 attorneys who applied to succeed retiring Tax Court Judge Martha Blood Wentworth. The governor must select the new Tax Court judge from among the three candidates by the end of July. Hoosier voters then will decide at the 2026 general election whether the new judge should be retained for 10 more years. McAdam, 40, and Price, 46, each work as legal counsel at the Indiana Office of Management and Budget, which generally oversees all tax- and finance-related functions across state government on behalf of the governor. Meanwhile, Halloran, 57, currently is a tax attorney and partner at Quarles & Brady LLP after serving in a variety of similar roles at other firms over the years, including a four-year stint as senior manager at Ernst and Young LLP in Chicago. Those not making the cut included two Valparaiso University Law School graduates: Gary native Joseph Pearman, 62, a tax attorney in private practice in Crown Point; and Kimberly Wright, 51, a Rensselaer native who works as a tax attorney and public defender in Lafayette. 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 An outspoken Hoosier lawmaker representing a portion of southeastern Indiana was arrested Wednesday following a vehicle crash on Interstate 65 near his hometown of Seymour, records show. Republican state Rep. Jim Lucas, 58, was taken into custody by Indiana State Police and booked into the Jackson County Jail at 3:46 a.m. (Eastern Time) on preliminary charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a property damage crash, according to jail records. Jail records show Lucas was released at 7:53 a.m. Wednesday. His bond amount was listed as $705. According to Indiana State Police, Lucas crashed his vehicle around midnight on Interstate 65 at Ind. 11, just north of Seymour, and drove off following the crash. Lucas' vehicle subsequently was found abandoned by Seymour Police on Ind. 11, and Lucas also was located nearby walking away from his vehicle, police said. Records show a trooper based at the Indiana State Police's Versailles Post placed Lucas under arrest. Toxicology results are pending, police said. Lucas is perhaps the most prominent advocate for 2nd Amendment gun rights at the Statehouse and backed last year's successful effort in House Enrolled Act 1296 to rescind Indiana's permit requirement for adults to carry a handgun in public. He's also repeatedly called for marijuana law reform in the Hoosier State and once held up a bottle of whiskey on the House floor to emphasize that legal alcohol annually is responsible for more deaths and destruction in Indiana than illegal cannabis products. Lucas has represented House District 69, which contains portions of Bartholomew, Jackson, Scott and Washington counties, since 2012. He owns a custom awning manufacturing and sign printing business in Seymour, which is located adjacent to Interstate 65 roughly equidistant from Indianapolis and Louisville, Kentucky. Meet the 2023 Northwest Indiana legislative delegation State Rep. Carolyn Jackson, D-Hammond State Rep. Earl Harris Jr., D-East Chicago State Rep. Ragen Hatcher, D-Gary State Rep. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso State Rep. Pat Boy, D-Michigan City State Rep. Chuck Moseley, D-Portage State Rep. Mike Aylesworth, R-Hebron State Rep. Mike Andrade, D-Munster State Rep. Vernon Smith, D-Gary State Rep. Hal Slager, R-Schererville State Rep. Kendell Culp, R-Rensselaer State Rep. Julie Olthoff, R-Crown Point State Rep. Jim Pressel, R-Rolling Prairie State Sen. Dan Dernulc, R-Highland State Sen. Lonnie Randolph, D-East Chicago State Sen. Eddie Melton, D-Gary State Sen. Rodney Pol Jr., D-Chesterton State Sen. Ed Charbonneau, R-Valparaiso State Sen. Rick Niemeyer, R-Lowell State Sen. Mike Bohacek, R-Michiana Shores Hardy Fox, a driving force behind the Residents, an avant-garde band that playfully subverted the conventions of rock music for decades while insisting on anonymity, which the group maintained by performing in outlandish costumes, died on Oct. 30 at his home in San Anselmo, Calif. He was 73. His husband, Steven Kloman, said the cause was glioblastoma. The Residents were more than a band: They were performance and visual artists, critics and deconstructors of pop culture, and music video pioneers. Their cacophonous, gleefully absurdist music presaged forms of punk, new wave and industrial music. The band found a following even though its work could be difficult, if not outright annoying. Strangled-sounding vocals have long been characteristic of their recordings, along with crunching electronic drones that retain a homemade, low-tech quality, the New York Times pop music critic Robert Palmer wrote in 1986. Mr. Fox said the groups sound was rooted in traditional rock n roll and meant to challenge what the music had become. Maurizio Cascella loved his rental apartment in Rome so much that he stayed there for nearly 20 years. When he and his partner, Lorena Munoz, had their first daughter, Olivia, now 3, he approached his landlord about buying the place. Much to his dismay, they failed to strike a deal. I started looking for a new home with the hopes of finding something similar, radiating stile Umbertino, Mr. Cascella, 46, wrote in an email, referring to the 19th-century Italian architectural style known for its expressive grandeur. After a long search, he found a compromise that satisfied me, he said a 19th-century apartment near the Roma Termini train station that had plenty of character, with ornate plaster molding and parquet floors. Image Maurizio Cascella, an electronic music D.J., renovated an apartment in Rome with help from Emanuela Petrucci, an architect. Credit... Gianni Franchellucci The thing that struck me about the new place was the strong resemblance to the old house, he noted. Maine Coons are the largest of all domesticated cat breeds. They gain as much as 2 pounds (0.9 kilograms) per month during their growing cycle, which ends at about 4 years of age more than quadruple the maturity time of other breeds. While most adult cats weigh about 7 pounds (3.12 kilograms), Maine Coon male cats tip the scales at up to 25 pounds (11.3 kilograms). Females typically weigh in at about 20 pounds (9 kilograms). "Their nickname of 'gentle giant' is well-deserved," Sandra Cagain, owner of the Orlando Cat Cafe, says in an email interview. "My two cats are each 20 pounds (9 kilograms), and they are the most gentle, sweet and loving cats I have ever had. They are very well mannered and never use their claws inappropriately and will always let you pick them up and hold them even if they would prefer not to be held." Advertisement Weight alone sets the Maine Coon apart, but this giant cat doesn't stop there. Maine Coons are some of the world's longest domesticated cats. Both male and female Maine Coons typically reach up to 40 inches (102 centimeters) in length from their noses to the tips of their bushy tails. Robin Wagner, the inventive Tony Award-winning set designer of more than 50 Broadway shows, including the 1978 musical On the Twentieth Century, in which a locomotive appeared to be racing toward the audience with the actress Imogene Coca strapped to the front of it, died on Monday at his home in New York City. He was 89. His daughter Christie Wagner Lee confirmed the death but said she did not yet know the specific cause. She did not say in what borough he lived. Mr. Wagner designed sets on Broadway, Off Broadway and for regional theater, for operas and ballets, and, in 1975, for the Rolling Stones Tour of the Americas. His stage for those concerts was shaped like a six-pointed lotus flower that was raked upward to the back in a delicate curve. On Broadway, his work included the sets for the transcendent 1968 rock musical Hair (in The New York Times, Clive Barnes described a beautiful junk-art setting) as well as The Great White Hope, Jesus Christ Superstar, 42nd Street, Young Frankenstein, Jellys Last Jam, Dreamgirls and Tony Kushners Angels in America: Millennium Approaches and Angels in America: Perestroika. A South Carolina convenience store owner has been charged with murder in the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old Black boy whom he falsely accused of shoplifting, chased and shot in the back on Sunday night, the authorities said. The store owner, Rick Chow, 58, who was charged on Monday, believed that the boy, Cyrus Carmack-Belton, had stolen four water bottles from his Xpress Mart Shell Station in Columbia, the Richland County Sheriffs Office said. But Sheriff Leon Lott said at a news conference on Monday that Cyrus had not shoplifted and described the shooting as unjustified. Tara Reade, the former Senate aide who accused President Biden of sexual assault as he ran for president in 2020, said on Tuesday that she had moved to Russia and was seeking citizenship there, according to Sputnik, a Russian-government-run news site. Ms. Reade told Sputnik in a news conference that while her dream is to live in both the United States and Russia, she might reside only in Russia because that is where she feels surrounded by protection and safety. In 2019, Ms. Reade, who briefly worked as a staff assistant in Mr. Bidens Senate office in 1993, accused him of inappropriately touching her. Then in 2020, around the time when he appeared likely to win the Democratic nomination for president, she accused him of sexual assault. Mr. Biden flatly denied her allegations. In interviews with The New York Times in April 2020, no former Biden staff members could corroborate any details of Ms. Reades allegation or recall any similar behavior by Mr. Biden toward her or any women. A friend of Ms. Reades said that she had told her the details of the allegation at the time. After months of failed attempts to negotiate an agreement between Russia and Ukraine, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency is expected to take his case for securing Ukraines embattled Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant to the U.N. Security Council on Tuesday. It was not immediately clear exactly what the official, Rafael Mariano Grossi, the director general of the I.A.E.A., would be presenting to the Security Council. The aim of the meeting was to encourage the parties involved to comply with the I.A.E.A.s nuclear safety principles, the Foreign Ministry of Switzerland, which currently holds the presidency of the council, said in a statement on Monday. The stakes were high ahead of Tuesdays meeting, but the politics that have prevented the agency from reaching an agreement so far were likely to also get in the way at the council. Russia and China, which has aligned itself with Moscow since the invasion of Ukraine last year, both hold veto power on the council. So do the United States, Britain and France, who are some of Kyivs strongest allies and are unlikely to endorse a proposal that Ukraine does not accept. On Tuesday night, four years after being hailed as the breakout star of a revival of Wagners Ring at the Metropolitan Opera, Tomasz Konieczny returned there to headline Der Fliegende Hollander, or The Flying Dutchman. It was worth the wait. Koniecznys Dutchman, cursed to ride the seas endlessly in a ghost ship with black masts and red sails, seemed to channel supernatural forces as he emerged from the bowels of Francois Girards unremittingly dark production. Konieczny possesses an instrument of granitic power and brassy resonance, combining the depth of a tuba with the brightly penetrating cast of a trumpet. He can also cover his voice and fill it with pitiful tears. For such a sizable instrument, his attack is astonishingly clean; he inflates a straight tone to a vibrating roar and makes it sound like an exquisite cri de coeur. One of the most significant developments in American classical music so far this century has been the ascendancy of the Los Angeles Philharmonic: a showcase of talent, inventive programming and strong finances that has become the envy of other orchestras. But now the institution is facing one of its biggest challenges in decades. First, Gustavo Dudamel, the orchestras popular music director, announced that he would leave in 2026 to become the next music director of the New York Philharmonic. A few months later, Chad Smith, the Los Angeles Philharmonics chief executive officer, who championed and drove its inventive programming, announced he was resigning to run the Boston Symphony Orchestra. He was one of the last remaining top deputies of Deborah Borda, who led the orchestra for 17 years in which it reached new heights before she left as its chief executive six years ago to take over the New York Philharmonic. When Frank Gehry, the architect who designed the Los Angeles orchestras futuristic steel-clad home, Walt Disney Concert Hall, first heard the news that Smith was leaving, he initially said, quite bluntly, that he was scared by the double hit of departures. But he then explained that he remained hopeful, given the orchestras track record of successful reinvention. Ive been through it, Gehry said. Its a moving thing that continues to grow and change. Thats the way of that world. Change has been the M.O. of orchestras around the world. New York Citys official Pride theme this year is Strength in Solidarity, an apt reminder that Pride was born as a protest movement against bigotry wherever it manifests. Not that there isnt room to party, too. The actor and singer Billy Porter and the activist Randy Wicker are among the grand marshals of this years Pride March, which kicks off at noon on June 25 at 25th Street and 5th Avenue. (It will be broadcast on ABC 7.) Also that day, Christina Aguilera headlines Pride Island, the big annual dance party, at Brooklyn Army Terminal. New Yorks official Pride calendar also features a Juneteenth brunch with Black L.G.B.T.Q. chefs on June 18 and, on June 24, events centered on people of color and a Youth Pride party. Other area Pride marches and festivals will be held in the Hudson Valley (June 3); Queens (June 4); Brooklyn (June 10); Long Island (June 11); the Bronx (June 17); and Harlem (June 24). The annual Dyke March a protest march, not a parade, according to organizers is June 24. I am experiencing a complex array of emotions relief, exhaustion, strength, sadness knowing that my abuser, Danny Masterson, will face accountability for his criminal behavior, one of Mastersons accusers, who was identified in court documents only as N. Trout, said in a statement released by a public relations firm for lawyers who are representing her in a lawsuit against Masterson and the Church of Scientology. Another accuser, who was identified in court documents only as Christina B., said in the same statement that she was devastated that the jury had deadlocked on the charge that Masterson raped her in 2001 when they were in a relationship. Despite my disappointment in this outcome, I remain determined to secure justice, including in civil court, where I, along with my co-plaintiffs, will shine a light on how Scientology and other conspirators enabled and sought to cover up Mastersons monstrous behavior, she said. According to a trial brief filed by the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office in September, Christina B. had reported the rape to the churchs ethics officer or master at arms, who told her, You cant rape someone that youre in a relationship with and Dont say that word again. According to the brief, Masterson raped a third woman, identified only as Jen B., in April 2003 after he gave her a red vodka drink. About 20 or 30 minutes later, she felt very disoriented, the brief states. According to the brief, Masterson raped her after she regained consciousness on his bed. She reached for his hair to try to pull him off and tried to push a pillow into his face, it states. When Masterson heard a man yelling in the house, he pulled a gun from his night stand and told her not to move or to say anything, adding expletives, the brief states. Can House Republicans behave as the members of a well-functioning political party would? Or are they still the same party that has cycled through one House leader after another over the past decade, unable to find one who can unite various factions? The past few days of debt-ceiling talks have brought conflicting signals. And Republicans dont have much more time to choose a path: To avoid a default that many economists believe would be extremely damaging, Congress probably needs to act within the next several days. For much of the past several weeks, House Republicans have looked decidedly functional. In April, they passed a bill to raise the debt ceiling that included deep spending cuts and was akin to an initial offer in a negotiation. This weekend, Republican leaders finalized a compromise with President Biden in which each side got some of what it wanted. The compromise bill looked to be on course to pass even as conservative Republicans and liberal Democrats criticized aspects of it. Yesterday, however, the compromise seemed to be at risk of coming apart because of Republican infighting. Not one Republican should vote for this bill, Representative Chip Roy of Texas, an influential ultraconservative, said yesterday afternoon. The House will vote tonight on a bipartisan plan to suspend the nations debt ceiling for two years and limit spending as lawmakers race to act before a looming default. The legislation is a product of intense negotiations between President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who demanded concessions from Democrats in exchange for suspending the borrowing limit. To push the bill through with a 218-vote majority, McCarthy will need to cobble together a coalition of Republicans willing to back it and enough Democrats to make up for what was shaping up to be a substantial number of G.O.P. defections. McCarthy predicted that he would have the necessary votes by around 8:30 p.m. Eastern time, when the final vote is expected. (We are covering it live.) My colleague Catie Edmondson told me that the bill was likely to pass, but that something could always blow up. The vote comes just days ahead of a June 5 deadline, when Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said the U.S. will run out of cash to pay all of its bills on time. YEREVAN, MAY 31, ARMENPRESS. Minister of Defense Suren Papikyan held a meeting on May 31 with the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Armenia Bolat Imanbayev and the newly appointed military attache of the Kazakh Embassy Colonel Yerulan Sapenov. Papikyan congratulated the Colonel on his appointment , wishing him new successes in the responsible military-diplomatic mission, the defense ministry said in a readout. The course of Armenian-Kazakh defense cooperation and directions for future expansion were also discussed. A number of issues related to regional security were also discussed. Why It Matters: Adidas is trying to resolve a public relations problem. The postings on Adidass website of Yeezy Boost 350 V2 sneakers, in black and two-toned red and gray, selling for 200 euros a pair, or about $213, generated buzz over social media, reflecting the enduring popularity of the brand. The shoes go on sale Thursday. Adidas said its decision to sever ties with Ye cost the company 1.2 billion in lost sales and about 500 million in profit this year. Options for eliminating the inventory ranged from burning it to donating it to the needy. Mr. Gulden called figuring out what to do with the remaining stock one of the most difficult decisions that I have been a part of. But Yeezy shoes have been known to sell for up to $1,000 a pair and remain popular despite their association with Ye. So the company said it had made the decision in consultation with groups including Black Lives Matter and the Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change, which is run by Philonise Floyd, the brother of George Floyd. Jonathan A. Greenblatt, chief executive of the Anti-Defamation League, which is among the groups that will benefit from the proceeds of the sale, welcomed Adidass decision as one fitting the complexity of the problem. This is a thoughtful and caring resolution for the unsold merchandise, Mr. Greenblatt said. But other groups noted that despite Adidass pledge to donate the proceeds, Ye would still make money off the sales. Adidas has declined to comment on how much that would be, but Mr. Gulden previously said Ye still had a royalty contract that Adidas was obligated to honor. Adidass willingness to donate the proceeds is highly commendable, said Josef Schuster, president of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, but he added, The fact that Kanye West would profit financially from the sale is highly problematic. Background: The end of a hugely lucrative partnership. The Yeezy brand became a defining force in the sportswear industry and an incredibly lucrative cornerstone for Adidas. The partnership between the rapper and the company, based in Germany, was hailed as the most successful sportswear collaboration since Michael Jordan teamed up with Nike. But last fall, Yes erratic behavior and comments targeting Blacks, Jews and others caused an uproar. Adidas came under pressure for failing to react, after other brands severed ties with the artist. Whats Next: More Yeezy styles may go up for sale. Besides the two styles posted for sale, the website shows images of a dozen other models, suggesting that more could be announced in the coming weeks. Adidas said it was considering further releases of the Yeezy inventory, but it did not give a timeline. Customers were asked to download an app and register for updates. Chick-fil-A drew fierce criticism this week from conservatives calling out the fast-food chain for its diversity, equity and inclusion policy and questioning the hiring of an executive to be in charge of such efforts. The backlash has made Chick-fil-A one of the latest companies to draw public condemnation over culture war flash points like L.G.B.T.Q. rights or seeking fair treatment for racial or ethnic groups that have been historically underrepresented. Several companies and brands have also been at the center of such criticism in recent months, including Bud Light, Target and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Chick-fil-A itself has drawn controversy in the past, though more typically from the left. Chick-fil-A has gone woke This week, many conservatives have rebuked Chick-fil-A, pointing to a corporate policy on its website that details the companys focus on ensuring equal access, valuing differences, and creating a culture of belonging, under the title, Committed to being Better at Together. Critics also singled out the chains hiring of Erick McReynolds to head its D.E.I. efforts, but that is also not a new development. Before the coronavirus pandemic, Andrew Slaughter started his workday battling morning traffic generally between 15 to 40 minutes on the way to the LabCorp office in the Research Triangle Park of Durham, N.C., where, as a proposal manager, he puzzled out lab service costs associated with clinical trials. During the pandemic, Mr. Slaughter worked from home, but he was eager to return to the office, and with good reason: His wife runs a small preschool in their house, averaging 10 children a day cavorting in the sandbox, chattering through snack time and joining in singalongs. It can be a little distracting, said Mr. Slaughter, who sequestered himself at a small desk in his bedroom. Its not as though I could go anywhere in the house. When LabCorp told its employees they would be returning to the office, Mr. Slaughter found out he had no office to return to his job had been made fully remote. Like many companies, LabCorp reduced office space, having found employees were just as effective and often happier working from home. Indians have been filing into gas stations, jewelry stores, fruit stands and any other businesses that still accept soon-to-be-withdrawn 2,000-rupee notes, each worth about $24. The race to spend Indias biggest bill has been on since its central bank announced this month that they would be removed from circulation by early fall. Indias vast economy remains heavily reliant on cash, and many businesses have welcomed the surge in traffic, even if it has left them a bit short of change. Economists say retiring the big bill may help fight corruption, bring workers into the formal economy, improve tax collection and accelerate Indias push for digital payments. But for some consumers, the move has dredged up unpleasant memories of 2016, when Prime Minister Narendra Modis sudden ban on large notes left them without enough cash for basic transactions. In an economy that is driven by rural and informal workers, some do not own bank accounts or trust the governments economic policies. When it comes to JPMorgan Chases nearly 15-year business relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, Jamie Dimon, the banks longtime chief executive, claims to have little firsthand knowledge about the disgraced financier. During a deposition taken on Friday, Mr. Dimon repeatedly denied meeting Mr. Epstein, or communicating with him, and also said he had no recollection of being briefed by his top lieutenants at the nations largest bank on one of its most notorious customers. A redacted transcript of the deposition was released on Wednesday and reviewed by The New York Times. Though he said he wished the bank had been aware of Mr. Epsteins illicit activities, Mr. Dimon said he didnt recall reading any reports about Mr. Epsteins 2008 conviction in Florida on a charge of soliciting prostitution from a teenage girl an offense that forced him to register as a sex offender in multiple places in the United States. Mr. Dimon said he had barely heard of Mr. Epstein before his July 2019 arrest on federal sex trafficking charges and death by suicide in a New York jail cell a month later. I dont recall knowing anything about Jeffrey Epstein until the stories broke sometime in 2019, and I was surprised that I didnt even had never even heard of the guy, pretty much. And how involved he was with so many people, Mr. Dimon said during an all-day deposition taken at JPMorgans headquarters in Manhattan. Mr. Dimons deposition was taken Friday, but a redacted transcript was released on Wednesday and reviewed by The New York Times. It shows he repeatedly denied meeting or communicating with Mr. Epstein. He also said he had no recollection of being briefed by any of his top lieutenants on any issues with Mr. Epstein, including his 2008 conviction in Florida on a charge of soliciting prostitution from a teenage girl an offense that forced him to register as a sex offender. Widely regarded as one of the most powerful executives on Wall Street, Mr. Dimon said he had barely heard of Mr. Epstein before his July 2019 arrest on federal sex trafficking charges, even though Mr. Epstein who was worth some $600 million when he died was often tabloid fodder because of his friendship with Prince Andrew and the wealthy men who associated with him, including Bill Gates, the investor Leon Black and the tech billionaire Peter Thiel. I dont recall knowing anything about Jeffrey Epstein until the stories broke sometime in 2019, and I was surprised that I didnt even had never even heard of the guy, pretty much. And how involved he was with so many people, Mr. Dimon said during the all-day deposition taken at JPMorgans headquarters in Manhattan. The bank stopped doing business with Mr. Epstein in 2013. Ms. Erdoes, in a deposition taken in March that was also reviewed by The Times, said the decision to dismiss Mr. Epstein as a customer was made following an annual review of his accounts because he had been deemed a high risk client by the bank. The review took place several months after James E. Staley, who had been a top private banker at JPMorgan, left the bank in January 2013. Ms. Erdoes said the decision to stop doing business with Mr. Epstein was made easier with Mr. Staley gone from the bank. While the awards have historically honored mostly white chefs serving European-derived food in expensive urban restaurants in fact, the other four finalists in the Best Chef: Southeast category with Ms. Fore are white men her business, Tuk Tuk, is a pop-up that serves cuisine inspired by what she grew up eating in Lexington, Ky., as the daughter of Sri Lankan immigrants. In what she called an interrogation, the investigators asked her about social media posts she had made on both private and public accounts. Someone had sent them to the foundation through an anonymous tip line on its website. The men told Ms. Fore that the posts potentially violated the organizations code of ethics specifically that they amounted to targeted harassment and bullying. They included an Instagram post, she said, that was part of a domestic-violence awareness campaign, and others related to her advocacy for victims of sexual violence, including vague tweets about people the posts did not name. She said she told the investigators: Weve been talking for 90 minutes about these tweets, and you dont know who Im targeting with them. How is that targeted harassment? On Wednesday, after this article was published, the foundation notified Ms. Fore in an email that she had not been disqualified from the awards, which will be given out at a ceremony in Chicago on Monday. The investigation, it said, did not find it more likely than not that you violated the Code of Ethics. Why It Matters: Older adults are at a higher risk. Each year, about 60,000 adults 65 and older are hospitalized with R.S.V. and about 6,000 to 10,000 die from the virus, the F.D.A. estimated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that in one year, more than 21,000 people in that age group would need to take the GSK vaccine to prevent one R.S.V. death; the number was nearly 25,000 for the Pfizer shot. The virus was a key driver in the winters tripledemic of Covid, flu and R.S.V. that was particularly hard on young children, resulting in overwhelmed hospitals. Infants and toddlers are also at elevated risk; R.S.V. is considered a leading killer of infants globally. Several treatments, including a maternal vaccine and a monoclonal antibody for infants against R.S.V., are under agency review. Background: Advisers aired safety concerns. During an advisory meeting on March 1 about both vaccines, doctors reviewed detailed data provided by the drugmakers. Pfizers product, called Abrysvo, proved nearly 67 percent effective against cases of the virus with two symptoms and 86 percent effective against cases with three or more symptoms, according to data submitted to the F.D.A. The GSK vaccine, called Arexvy, was reported to be nearly 83 percent effective against R.S.V. But the advisory panel also raised concerns about a few cases in which vaccine recipients developed autoimmune syndromes shortly after receiving the shots. In a Pfizer study of about 34,000 patients who received the R.S.V. vaccine, a week after the shot, one patient developed a life-threatening case of Guillain-Barre syndrome, a condition where the immune system attacks the nervous system. A second patient developed a subtype of that condition called Miller Fisher syndrome eight days after receiving the shot. Those cases put the incidence rate of the condition at about one in 9,000 though they are typically seen at a rate of about one in 100,000 in the general population. Some advisers, also noting the low incidence of severe R.S.V. in the patient pool, found those numbers troubling. The final vote of the F.D.A.s advisory panel in favor of the Pfizer vaccines safety and efficacy was 7 to 4. The panel voted 10 to 2 in favor of the GSK vaccine, which was also linked to one Guillain-Barre case and two others of a possibly related disorder. Whats Next: When will the shots be available? C.D.C. advisers are expected to discuss recommendations to health care providers about the shots in a meeting next month. So far, they have signaled that the data from the GSK and Pfizer trials support use of the vaccines in people ages 65 and older. A Pfizer spokeswoman, Jerica Pitts, said the company was ready to ship the vaccine. She did not know the price of the vaccine but said there would be no co-pay for vaccines deemed medically necessary under Medicaid and Medicare. GSK said earlier that its vaccine would be available in the fall. On Tuesday, a federal appeals court granted members of the billionaire Sackler family a legal golden key that they had been seeking for nearly four years: The Sacklers will be shielded from all civil opioid claims related to their company, Purdue Pharma, the maker of the prescription painkiller OxyContin. In exchange, they have agreed to make payments of up to $6 billion to thousands of plaintiffs in now-suspended lawsuits. The ruling was part of a court review of a bankruptcy restructuring plan for Purdue, which filed for Chapter 11 protection in September 2019. Companies in bankruptcy customarily get protection from legal claims; owners who have not filed for personal bankruptcy usually do not. When the company filed for bankruptcy, the Sacklers faced about 400 lawsuits over their role in Purdues opioid business. They have long insisted that the companys liability shield should extend to them. Without such protection, they said, they would have no incentive to pay billions to settle all of the opioid cases and help their company resolve its bankruptcy. Legal experts say that the ruling, by the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, has implications for the Purdue case specifically and for owners of companies seeking bankruptcy generally. By the end of Turn Every Page The Adventures of Robert Caro and Robert Gottlieb, exactly how Caro has ever managed to finish a book is still a mystery. His research takes years. He sometimes writes out whole pages of adjectives just so he can find the right word, and this is for books that can run more than 1,000 pages. (His landmark Robert Moses biography The Power Broker was actually cut down by one-third.) Caro drafts in longhand before switching to a typewriter. He shoves carbon copies in a cabinet above his refrigerator that he says goes back about six feet. Every so often I get up on a ladder and push, he adds. He probably knows what hes doing, but it really does look like that cabinet is about to spill, scattering the pages out of order. In this documentary, viewers get a rare chance to see Caro at work on his latest Lyndon Johnson book, a tome that Robert Gottlieb, Caros editor since The Power Broker, and not a little bit obsessive himself, refers to as volume five of a three-volume biography. Turn Every Page is a portrait of both men and their eccentricities, directed by Gottliebs daughter, Lizzie, who is able to coax them into sharing at least slightly more about a writer-editor relationship than they would both prefer to keep confidential. They finally give her permission to film them while they edit, but with the proviso that she is not allowed to record sound which means we dont get to hear any of their fabled battles over semicolons. (Caro says that Gottlieb thinks he uses too many.) Gottlieb estimates that he has edited between 600 and 700 books, and he says that the process depends on the author. Sometimes its a highly emotional relationship because a transference gets made, as in psychoanalysis, he says. It is also a wonder that Gottlieb reads as quickly as he claims. When a writer or an agent has given me a manuscript, he says, Ive read it overnight and gotten back to them the next day or at worst over the weekend. Surely he cant be talking about Caro-length books. While many of the anecdotes here are not new, it is a kick to see Caro poring over holdings at the L.B.J. Presidential Library with his wife, Ina Caro, the only person he trusts to help him with research. And the research stories he tells of how he got Johnsons brother, Sam Houston Johnson, to open up; of how he came to the conclusion that Johnson had stolen the 1948 Texas senate election would inspire any writer. YEREVAN, MAY 31, ARMENPRESS. The United States stands with Armenia on its journey towards a more open, accountable, prosperous and secure future, United States Ambassador Kristina Kvien said at the 2nd Armenian Forum for Democracy. Id like to extend my sincere congratulations to Freedom House and to the Union of Informed Citizens for organizing this second annual forum for democracy, Kvien said at the forum attended by President Vahagn Khachaturyan, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and other government officials. I also want to commend the people of Armenia, for their unwavering commitment to democratic reform despite grave security challenges. This commitment to democracy makes Armenia a bright spot in the region as we saw in the Nations in Transit report the Freedom House published just last week. The United States stands with you on your journey towards a more open, accountable, prosperous and secure future. In America, our concerns for human rights come not from a desire to judge others, but from humility about our own history and our own challenges. As Secretary Blinken has said, our willingness to confront these challenges, to acknowledge our shortcomings, not to ignore them or pretend they dont exist is what distinguishes democracies from other forms of government. Im incredibly proud of the work that we are doing together in Armenia to strengthen democracy and safeguard human rights. We are taking steps to eliminate discrimination and foster a society that embraces diversity and the rights of every individual in society regardless of their background, beliefs or social status. The United States is supporting your efforts to combat corruption and strengthen the rule of law which underpins economic growth and public trust in the democratic process. We are working together to promote media freedom, protect journalists safety and ensure the unrestricted flow of information and freedom of speech. We are also building a more resilient, democratic foundation by promoting civic education and encouraging the active involvement of Armenias very strong civil society. Of course its in every democracy, including ours, that work remains to be done. I hope this forum can drive forward conversation about what the next steps are in growing Armenias democratic foundation. As we move forward, we are grateful for our partnerships with Freedom House, the Union of Informed Citizens and the Armenian Government, all of you who came today. I hope this second annual Forum for Democracy can serve as a platform for discussion, sharing best practices and forging alliances. Together we can overcome challenges, empower individuals and build a future where freedom, justice and democracy prevail. I wish you all a productive discussion, thank you very much, the ambassador added. One of the largest providers of housing for mentally ill and formerly homeless people in New York City has started hundreds of eviction cases in an attempt to collect millions of dollars in rent that its tenants failed to pay during the pandemic, according to a new analysis of housing court records. The housing developer, Breaking Ground, has filed to evict the tenants in about 345 of its more than 4,300 apartments since January 2022, according to SHOUT, an advocacy group for low-income and formerly homeless tenants that compiled the data. The cases came after a pandemic-era moratorium on evictions was lifted. The analysis captures a longstanding practice among nonprofit housing providers that has been exacerbated by the pandemic, legal experts said: threatening to evict low-income tenants who are behind on rent as a tactic to prod the city to give those tenants rental assistance more quickly. The lawsuits come at a time when the city is dealing with record-high homelessness and surging demand for shelter from migrant asylum seekers. Very few of the cases have led to evictions, but critics of the approach say that the lawsuits are an unnecessary hardship for some of the most vulnerable renters in the city, many of whom have lived on the streets or in shelters for years. They are also emblematic, they said, of dysfunction within the citys social safety net, at a time when budget cuts are straining numerous departments. On a fall day in 2018, two men drove from Brooklyn to a home in a New Jersey suburb. They pounded on the front door. They went to the back deck and peered inside the glass doors. Finally, they taped a note for a former Chinese government official hiding inside with his wife. If you are willing to go back to the mainland and spend 10 years in prison, your wife and children will be safe and sound, it read. Whether the men were Chinas agents or its unwitting pawns is the central question in a landmark case that began in Brooklyn federal court on Wednesday. It is the first trial related to what China calls Operation Fox Hunt, a global effort that the authoritarian government says is aimed at fugitives, but which U.S. prosecutors say is intended to stamp out dissent using extortion and intimidation. Three defendants are Michael McMahon of New Jersey, a retired New York Police Department sergeant turned private investigator; Yong Zhu, also known as Jason Zhu, of Queens; and Congying Zheng of Brooklyn. The government says Mr. Zheng was one of the men who delivered the letter, using an address provided by Mr. Zhu and Mr. McMahon. Pennys routine at the firehouse has not changed much. She does not go to fires and never will. When a call comes in, the firefighters put her in her carrier in a back room. But she has been taking advantage of the fame that comes with having an Instagram following. She headlined a benefit at a yoga studio in Manhattan early in May and flew to Hollywood for the taping of a television program. Whitney Berger, who owns the yoga studio, said she had discovered Penny on Instagram Ive always wanted a mini pig. Obviously I live in New York City. Not going to happen for me. and messaged Harris about doing a fund-raiser at her studio, WhitFit. Penny turned out to be about the size of my dachshund, Berger said, adding that she had assumed that even small pigs grew to be ginormous, but shes actually mini. Also, Berger said, shes a Cheerios addict. Sure enough, at the firehouse, Penny snorted down several handfuls that Harris gave me to offer to her. I asked if she wanted more. She grunted and walked away, so I didnt get to ask if she had read The Te of Piglet, a 1990s best seller that explained Taoist philosophy through a certain character in A.A. Milnes Winnie-the-Pooh. Or what she had thought of Wilbur, in Charlottes Web. Or who is her Kermit. She swam in my pool, Firefighter James McCourt told me. It happened at his house in Mill Basin, Brooklyn, during a picnic for Engine Company 239. She went up the steps and got out, he said, pulling out his smartphone and playing a video that showed Penny doing just that. Former President Donald J. Trump is asking the judge overseeing his criminal case in Manhattan to step aside, citing ties between the judges family and Democratic causes, Mr. Trumps lawyers said in a statement Wednesday. The motion for recusal, which has not yet been filed publicly, represents the latest effort by Mr. Trumps lawyers to move his case away from the judge, Juan M. Merchan of State Supreme Court in Manhattan. The Trump legal team also recently sought to shift the case, brought by the Manhattan district attorney, to federal court. On Tuesday, the district attorney, Alvin L. Bragg, filed court papers opposing that effort, and he is expected to oppose the effort to get Justice Merchan to recuse himself. Mr. Braggs case centers on a hush-money payment to a porn star in the last days of the 2016 presidential campaign. The $130,000 payment, made by Mr. Trumps former fixer, bought the silence of the porn star, who was otherwise poised to tell her story of a sexual encounter with Mr. Trump. To the Editor: Re Birds Show Us What It Means to Be Free, by Christian Cooper (Opinion guest essay, May 28): I am a Central Park birder who has known Christian Cooper for many years. It is heartwarming to know that out of something bad what he described as the racially explosive encounter with a white woman with her dog in 2020 came something immensely good. Among birders Chris is a cherished member of our community. He is known for his knowledge of birds, his ability not only to spot birds but also to identify birdsong, as well as his generosity in sharing this knowledge with those of us less gifted than he is. How wonderful that Chris is now able to share all this with a wider public. Thanks in good part to Chris, the world of birding is no longer an all-white activity. Walk in the Ramble in the spring and youll meet Black, Hispanic and Asian birders as well as many young birders. Judith Schiller Rabi New York To the Editor: Christian Coopers experience of finding community in Central Park highlights one of the enduring values of this iconic green space: New Yorkers from all backgrounds can find respite and be together regardless of race, gender or socioeconomic status the core ethos of the park. Why? Democrats and Republicans dont want to bring a knife to a gunfight; they greatly overestimate how much their rivals want to break norms of nonviolent, democratic engagement, and this leads Democrats and Republicans to support violent and undemocratic engagement more than they otherwise would. He concluded: As the old sociological adage goes, situations believed to be real can become real in their consequences. It is likely that Democrats and Republicans inaccurate, overly negative stereotypes of one another are to some extent self-fulfilling, leading partisans to adopt more divisive, conflictual views than they would if they saw each other more accurately. Willer and others who described the centrality of misperception in American politics stressed that they do not want to diminish the serious divisions between Democrats and Republicans on such matters as abortion, race, womens rights, the safety net and the proper role of government. Lilliana Mason, a political scientist at Johns Hopkins and the author of Uncivil Agreement: How Politics Became Our Identity, stressed these points in an emailed response to my questions, saying, Democrats and Republicans are having very real and consequential disagreements on matters of equality, social hierarchy and what it means to be American. At the same time, Mason continued: matters of status and identity are easy to whip up into existential conflicts with zero-sum solutions. To the extent that political leaders are encouraging people to focus on threats to their social status rather than their economic or material well-being, they are certainly directing attention in an unhelpful and often dangerous direction. Its much easier to think of others as disproportionately dangerous and extreme when their victory means your loss, rather than focusing on the overall well-being of the nation as a whole. Alia Braley, a doctoral candidate in political science at the University of California, Berkeley, was the lead author of an August 2022 paper, The Subversion Dilemma: Why Voters Who Cherish Democracy Participate in Democratic Backsliding. She and her co-authors argued that simply fearing that opposing partisans support democratic backsliding can lead individuals to support it themselves. In an email, Braley wrote: We find that everyday Democrats believe that everyday Republicans are way more hostile to democracy than they really are. And vice versa. In that sense people are, in fact, operating under a delusion that everyday opposing partisans are willing to undermine democracy. And yes, this misperception seems to cause intense affective polarization. Partisans, Braley continued, overestimate how much members of the other party dislike and dehumanize them. Partisans tend to believe members of the other party want far more extreme policy outcomes than they actually do. These misperceptions can create a type of downward spiral in terms of polarization, she wrote, citing Donald Trumps claim that the 2020 election was stolen: This rhetoric likely causes Republicans to start to believe that Democrats are undermining democracy. When Democrats see this election denial, they naturally come to think that Republicans are trying to undermine democracy by not accepting election results. The result is a state of mutual fear. Gabriel Lenz a political scientist at Berkeley and one of Braleys co-authors emailed to say that much of the polarization is delusional. There are two main drivers of this phenomenon, Lenz wrote. The first is the need for politicians to mobilize citizens with busy lives and not much of an incentive to participate in politics. There are many ways politicians can mobilize voters, but fear is tried and true. When the antiregime demonstrations kicked off in September 2022, Mr. Salehi, like many Iranians, found he couldnt sit on the sidelines. Despite the risk of returning to prison, he uploaded videos of his peaceful participation in the protests in the streets of Shahin Shahr and recorded two songs highlighting the bravery and plight of Irans people. In essence, the artist was now living his art. We come to streets like ghosts and become a nightmare for the government, he raps in Battlefield, made during the height of the demonstrations. We see the light after this hell. Neither suppression nor execution can stop us. We shout and go forward. Call us roaring fighters. In the video for Fortune, he confronts the clerical establishment directly, sitting across from an anonymous official representing the Islamic Republic and predicting its demise by reading coffee grinds. Knowing he faced arrest again, Mr. Salehi left his home in Shahin Shahr and, with the help of friends, reportedly moved from one safe house to the next. Not long after his arrest, a purported confession video aired on state television. In it, he was blindfolded, clearly under duress and with bruises on his face. He claimed he had made a mistake. But his family and fans said he was tortured, as has happened when such videos were recorded by the Iranian intelligence apparatus. They believe he needs urgent medical treatment. As the protests gripped the worlds attention, European lawmakers selected individual Iranian political prisoners and highlighted their cases. A member of Germanys Parliament, Ye-One Rhie, chose Mr. Salehi. According to Ms. Rhie, the rapper has since been charged with insulting the leadership, propaganda against the regime, cooperation with hostile governments, inviting people to kill and disturb and corruption on earth. That last charge, which is used against actual or perceived dissidents to quash opposition to the Islamic Republic, could carry a death sentence. Ms. Rhie said that Mr. Salehi was in solitary confinement and has had limited contact with his lawyer since his arrest. There has been no due process in his case, she said, and a court date hasnt been announced. Should one be set, however, we can expect not a trial based on the rule of law but arbitrariness and terror, she wrote in an email to me. Similar scenes played out across the country this spring as medical, dental and physical therapy students assembled to offer tributes to whole-body donors and their families. At the ceremonies, students perform music, light candles, read letters and share art. (A heart diagram from Ms. Zhangs anatomy studies, overlaid with her whimsical drawings of books, tree roots and human figures, was projected behind her as she spoke at Columbia.) A nondenominational spiritual leader often plays a role. Sometimes a tree designation or an offering of flowers to a donors family is included. Image Bree Zhang, a first-year dental student at Columbia, spoke at the ceremony and shared artwork inspired by her experience in the anatomy lab. Credit... Diana Cervantes for The New York Times It is not clear how many people in the United States donate their bodies for medical research and education, though estimates suggest that about 20,000 people or their families do so each year. Criteria vary by program and by state; generally anyone over 18 can become a donor, though people with certain transmissible diseases, such as hepatitis B or C, tuberculosis, H.I.V. or AIDS, are typically excluded. Many programs also exclude bodies that have been autopsied or have had organs removed for donation. Even with the introduction of elaborate 3-D visualization software, dissection remains a cornerstone of a medical education for most first-year students, as it has for centuries. Students spend months methodically studying the structures of the body, including organs, tendons, veins and tissue. The experience teaches more than the foundations of medicine. Treating the donor, who is viewed as a doctors first patient, with respect and care gives students a grounding in ethics and professionalism, said Joy Balta, the chair of the American Association for Anatomys human body donation committee. Recognizing a sacrifice Body donation is a selfless act by the donors, as well as by their families, who can wait as long as a couple of years to receive the ashes. The memorials, often called ceremonies of appreciation or gratitude, recognize the sacrifice. Youre able to think about the donor that youve been working with, said Dr. Balta, who is also the director of the Anatomy Learning Institute at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego. These are people, he added, that donated their bodies, that wanted you to work with them to improve science and health care. Amazon agreed on Wednesday to pay a civil penalty of $25 million to settle federal charges that it kept sensitive information collected from children for years, including their precise locations and voice recordings, in violation of a childrens online privacy law. It was the latest legal action in an intensifying regulatory effort to require some of the worlds largest tech platforms to better safeguard their younger users. The case, brought by the Federal Trade Commission and the Justice Department, centers on Amazons handling of the personal details it collected from children who conversed with Alexa, the companys voice-activated virtual assistant. In a legal complaint filed in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, regulators said the tech giant had kept young peoples Alexa voice recordings indefinitely and used the data for business purposes like training its algorithm to understand children, violating the federal Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act. It was almost a year ago that San Francisco voters ousted their liberal district attorney, Chesa Boudin, in a recall election, as public frustration was growing over property crime and the visible despair and squalor on city streets. There was no compelling evidence that Boudins policies had made crime worse; overall, crime in San Francisco changed little in the time he was in office. Yet voters rejected his progressive message of taking a lenient approach. Boudin, who has largely stayed quiet since the recall, steps into a new role this week, as the founding executive director of the new Criminal Law and Justice Center at the U.C. Berkeley School of Law. The job is wide-ranging and will involve teaching, researching the effects of changes in criminal justice laws in California and advocating new laws, in the State Capitol and in court. Its a job thats going to allow me to draw on the lived experience I had visiting my parents in prison for a combined 63 years, and the practical professional experience I had both as a public defender and elected district attorney in San Francisco, Boudin said. When he was a toddler, his parents, members of a radical left-wing group, went to prison for their roles in a botched robbery that left three men dead. YEREVAN, MAY 31, ARMENPRESS. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia has responded to the statement made by the United States State Department spokesperson regarding the negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Armenian side has always welcomed the efforts made by the US in the process of establishing peace, stability and security in the South Caucasus, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ani Badalian said in a statement on May 31. We think it should be obvious to all our partners that in the process of normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, both the recognition of each other's territorial integrity and inviolability of borders based on the Alma-Ata Declaration and addressing the rights and security of the people of Nagorno Karabakh are key. As we emphasized in the statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia on May 29, the recognition of the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan cannot be interpreted as authority to carry out ethnic cleansing and arbitrariness against the people of Nagorno-Karabakh. It is impossible not to notice that the statements made by the President of Azerbaijan on May 28 not only did not offer dignified solutions to the above-mentioned problems, but also contained clear threats to the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Armenia and the right of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh to live in security and with dignity in their homeland, which the Armenian side has repeatedly raised the alarm. Our partners have been alerted about this many times. We believe that the United States, based on its own values of democracy and human rights protection and its commitment and involvement in the establishment of lasting peace in the region, should adequately respond to these statements in order to prevent the expansionist policy of the Azerbaijani leadership towards the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia and attempts of ethnic cleansing in Nagorno Karabakh, Badalian added. A Florida art dealer who promised bargains on works he claimed were originals by master artists including Roy Lichtenstein, Keith Haring and Henri Matisse has been sentenced to more than two years in federal prison for running a counterfeit scheme, federal officials said. The man, Daniel Elie Bouaziz, 69, owned several art galleries in Palm Beach County, Fla., through which he operated the counterfeit scheme. He was sentenced on Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Miami to 27 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $15,000 fine, court filings show. Mr. Bouaziz pleaded guilty in February to one charge of money laundering on the condition that federal prosecutors drop 16 other counts, according to the documents. Neither Mr. Bouaziz nor his lawyer could immediately be reached for comment on Tuesday evening. According to prosecutors, Mr. Bouaziz, a French and Israeli citizen born in Algeria, was in the United States on a B-2 visitors visa. They said the pieces he had represented as authentic works were cheap reproductions he had bought through online auctions. He was charged in June after an investigation that included the serving of search warrants at his galleries, a review of financial records and undercover purchases of what prosecutors had deemed to be fraudulent art. Two people have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of two boys and a teenager in Lebanon, Pa., on Tuesday night, the authorities said on Thursday. The boys, who were 8 and 9, were outside playing with their kitten when the shooting occurred, Pier Hess Graf, the Lebanon County, Pa., district attorney, said at a news conference. They were public-school students in Lebanon, a city of about 26,000 residents about 80 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Bret Fisher, the Lebanon police chief, said that the authorities believed that Joshua Lugo-Perez, the 19-year-old who was fatally shot, had been targeted because of a past argument. He said that the two boys and a fourth victim, Luis Cancel, 33, who was recovering from surgery after being shot, were not involved. A man and a juvenile male were arrested in connection with the shooting on Wednesday and were charged with three counts of criminal homicide and conspiring to commit that homicide and one count of aggravated assault, Ms. Graf said. A third suspect was still at large, she said. From 1950 to 1990, the U.S. Energy Department produced an average of four nuclear bombs every day, turning them out of hastily built factories with few environmental safeguards that left behind a vast legacy of toxic radioactive waste. Nowhere were the problems greater than at the Hanford Site in Washington State, where engineers sent to clean up the mess after the Cold War discovered 54 million gallons of highly radioactive sludge left from producing the plutonium in Americas atomic bombs, including the one dropped on the Japanese city of Nagasaki in 1945. Cleaning out the underground tanks that were leaching poisonous waste toward the Columbia River just six miles away and somehow stabilizing it for permanent disposal presented one of the most complex chemical problems ever encountered. Engineers thought they had solved it years ago with an elaborate plan to pump out the sludge, embed it in glass and deposit it deep in the mountains of the Nevada desert. The House on Wednesday overwhelmingly passed legislation negotiated by President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy to suspend the debt ceiling and set federal spending limits, as a broad bipartisan coalition lined up to cast a critical vote to pull the nation back from the brink of economic catastrophe. The bill would defer the federal debt limit for two years allowing the government to borrow unlimited sums as necessary to pay its obligations while imposing two years of spending caps and a string of policy changes that Republicans demanded in exchange for allowing the country to avoid a disastrous default. The 314-to-117 vote came days before the nation was set to exhaust its borrowing limit, and days after a marathon set of talks between White House negotiators and top House Republicans yielded a breakthrough agreement. With both far-right and hard-left lawmakers in revolt over the deal, it fell to a bipartisan coalition powered by Democrats to push the bill over the finish line, throwing their support behind the compromise in an effort to break the fiscal stalemate that had gripped Washington for weeks. On the final vote, 149 Republicans and 165 Democrats backed the measure, while 71 Republicans and 46 Democrats opposed it. That was a blow to the Republican speaker, whose hard-fought victory on the measure was dampened by the fact that more Democrats ultimately voted for the bill than members of his own party. The Latest Members of a NASA task force that studies unidentified anomalous phenomena, or U.A.P.s, said on Wednesday that they were pushing the government to collect better data to try to find answers for unexplained events that have captured the publics imagination. A Pentagon official speaking at the meeting said the Defense Department is examining more than 800 cases from the past 27 years, but only 2 to 5 percent of those incidents are considered truly unexplained. The numbers are an increase from 2022 and represent new information that the Federal Aviation Administration has given to the Pentagon as well as an uptick in reports after a Chinese spy balloon transited the United States. Why It Matters: These phenomena have fascinated the public. People are and always will be interested in space aliens, but these unexplained incidents are not extraterrestrial visitations they are mostly drones, balloons and trash blowing in the winds. There is no conclusive evidence suggesting an extraterrestrial origin for U.A.P.s, said Nadia Drake, a panel member and science journalist who has written in the past for The New York Times. Collecting more good data from the scientific community to review in a peer-reviewed context will be important for progress to be made here. One reason data on these phenomena is so bad is that the military cameras, radar and other sensors that have collected videos are typically fine-tuned for other purposes, such as bomb targeting, rather than being designed to gather data necessary to identify nonhostile objects. Many in the public are invested in the idea that some of the anomalous phenomena could be extraterrestrial. NASA officials said many panel members had been subjected to online harassment. Throughout the meeting, many commentators on NASAs YouTube feed accused panel members of lying or covering up evidence of extraterrestrials. Despite such hostility, the panel tried to explain some of the material that has fascinated the public. It used some (slightly tricky) high school geometry to explain how the object in one video taken by a Navy plane in 2015 known as GOFAST was not moving quickly but at just 40 miles per hour by illustrating how the vantage point on an object could be a visual trick. Scott J. Kelly, a former astronaut, said that when flying, whether in air or space, optical illusions abound. When he was a F-14 Tomcat pilot, he said, the flight officer in the back seat thought he saw a U.F.O. I didnt see it, Mr. Kelly said. We turned around. We went to go look at it. It turns out it was Bart Simpson, a balloon. Background: Many examples, most with explanations. Many military videos of these phenomena appear interesting at first, but only later do ordinary explanations emerge. Sean M. Kirkpatrick, the director of the Pentagons All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office, presented a video recorded by a P-3 surveillance plane, which showed three dots that appeared to move back and forth. Further research found that the dots were three planes about 40 miles away waiting to land at an airport. Oral histories of past presidencies have become valuable resources for historians and researchers in recent decades. The Miller Center at the University of Virginia has conducted such projects going back to Jimmy Carters presidency. The Columbia project was organized with the support of the Obama Foundation. The first tranche of interviews does not include those of the former president, first lady or other major recognizable figures from the Obama era. Instead, it is tightly focused on one issue that the researchers deemed vital to his presidency, a wonks feast of policy discussion rather than a broader look at Mr. Obama himself or his overall eight years in power. Still, some flavor of his management behind the scenes comes through even in these limited initial interviews. As he sucked down his favorite Fiji water, Mr. Obama would tease scientists and engineers. I stayed away from you all in school, he would say. Im a lawyer. I dont like math. I dont do math. And when Steven Chu, his Nobel Prize-winning physicist-turned-energy secretary, showed up with 30 slides when five would have sufficed, an exasperated president would say, Steve, weve got it. Weve got it. We dont need to look at any more of those. The focus on climate change in the first set of interviews also highlighted the larger trade-offs Mr. Obama made between competing priorities. The transcripts make clear, for instance, how he made health care his top legislative goal at the start of his tenure in 2009, perhaps dooming chances for the sweeping climate change measure he would eventually advocate. At one point as he was expending all of his influence to pass the Affordable Care Act, he ruefully explained his calculations on timing to Mr. Chu. Look, I know I said energy and health care, but next year, he said. Energy is next. The special counsel investigating former President Donald J. Trumps efforts to cling to power after he lost the 2020 election has subpoenaed staff members from the Trump White House who may have been involved in firing the government cybersecurity official whose agency judged the election the most secure in American history, according to two people briefed on the matter. The team led by the special counsel, Jack Smith, has been asking witnesses about the events surrounding the firing of Christopher Krebs, who was the Trump administrations top cybersecurity official during the 2020 election. Mr. Krebss assessment that the election was secure was at odds with Mr. Trumps baseless assertions that it was a fraud on the American public. Mr. Smiths team is also seeking information about how White House officials, including in the Presidential Personnel Office, approached the Justice Department, which Mr. Trump turned to after his election loss as a way to try to stay in power, people familiar with the questions said. The investigators appear focused on Mr. Trumps state of mind around the firing of Mr. Krebs, as well as on establishing a timeline of events leading up to the attack on the Capitol by a pro-Trump mob on Jan. 6, 2021. The latest subpoenas, issued roughly two weeks ago, went to officials in the personnel office, according to the two people familiar with the matter. Readers in Asia: What Does L.G.B.T.Q. Life Look Like Where You Live? We may include your response in a June edition of the Asia Pacific Morning Briefing. Send any friend a story As a subscriber, you have 10 gift articles to give each month. Anyone can read what you share. Give this article Pride in Chennai, India, last June. Credit... Idrees Mohammed/EPA, via Shutterstock SEOUL The emergency siren began wailing at 6:32 a.m. Several minutes later, personal cellphones around Seoul were screeching with a government alert urging residents to prepare to evacuate, children and the old and weak first. For a half an hour on Wednesday morning, confusion and panic swept across this city of 10 million as news spread that North Korea had fired a rocket. Then, the next wave of messages hit: The Souths home ministry issued a notice saying the earlier alert was a false alarm. Anxiety soon turned into anger and exasperation. They messed up big time, said Lee Jae, an office worker in Seoul who woke up to the sirens. South Koreans, who have grown inured to North Koreas frequent provocations, were met with a disturbing taste of how their country might respond to a major military attack on Wednesday when their government caused confusion with its public alert system at a time of heightened tension in the region. TORONTO Poison in every puff. Cigarettes cause impotence. Tobacco smoke harms children. Those are the warnings that smokers in Canada will soon find on every single cigarette they light, as the country sets into motion a plan requiring tobacco companies to print health warnings directly onto cigarette filters. The labels will appear in English and French, Canadas official languages, and are intended to blunt the allure of smoking among young people, adults looking to quit and those addicted to nicotine, the government said on Wednesday. Canada is a global leader in targeting tobacco use through health hazard labels. Graphic illustrations of some of the health outcomes of smoking, such as images of cancerous tumors or decaying teeth, have appeared on cigarette boxes in Canada since 2001, when it became the first country to feature depictions of serious smoking-related illnesses on packaging. It was also the first country to ban smoking on its domestic flights, followed by international flights on Canadian airlines in 1994. Smoking is on the decline in Canada, and the countrys health services aim to reduce it even further. Currently, 10.2 percent of people over age 15 smoke cigarettes, and the governments goal is to reduce that to less than 5 percent by 2035. YEREVAN, 31 MAY, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 31 May, USD exchange rate up by 0.10 drams to 386.62 drams. EUR exchange rate down by 2.13 drams to 412.76 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate down by 0.01 drams to 4.77 drams. GBP exchange rate down by 2.47 drams to 477.94 drams. The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals. Gold price up by 62.82 drams to 24269.19 drams. Silver price up by 1.44 drams to 289.06 drams. As polar ice melts, Russia, already a major Arctic power, wants to make the region its own. China has ambitions for a Polar Silk Road. And NATO is embracing Finland and Sweden too, Washington hopes giving the alliance new reach in the Far North. Climate change is accelerating and amplifying competition in the Arctic as never before, opening the region to greater commercial and strategic jostling just at a moment when Russia, China and the West are all seeking to expand their military presence there. The rising importance of the region is underscored by the travels of Antony J. Blinken, the U.S. secretary of state, who will attend an informal meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Norway on Thursday. Mr. Blinken is making a point of visiting Sweden and Finland as well, meeting the leaders of all three countries as they press Turkey to ratify Swedens quick entry into NATO. He is scheduled to deliver a major speech on Russia, Ukraine and NATO on Friday in Helsinki, the capital of NATOs newest member. Just before midnight, David ONeill navigated his trawler into the harbor in Union Hall, a small port in southwestern Ireland, the wake from the vessel sending tiny waves slapping against the pier. The crew swiftly unloaded their catch, using a crane to lift ice-packed crates of haddock and hake from the hold of the Aquila under bright spotlights. Less than an hour later, the Aquila would depart for its final trip. Two days later, the crew stripped the vessels contents chains, buoys, ropes, steel cables, and hooks and ejected them onto the pier, on their way to a shipyard to be scrapped. A day after a drone strike on Moscow, Kremlin officials jumped on the refusal of Ukrainian allies to denounce the attack as proof that Russias real war was with the West. The Kremlins spokesman, Dmitri S. Peskov, said Russia would have preferred to hear at least some words of condemnation from Western capitals. We will calmly and deliberately think how to deal with this, he said. While none of Ukraines allies went so far as to endorse the drone attack, Britains foreign secretary said on Tuesday that Kyiv had the right to project force beyond its borders. The U.S. response was more circumspect, but it stopped short of criticizing the first military strike to hit civilian areas in the Russian capital since the start of the war. Ukraine officials have said they were not directly involved in the drone strike. The sight is one that beekeepers say is understandably intimidating to the ordinary person out for a walk: a sliver of sky suddenly darkening amid the collective roar of thousands of honeybees before they cluster on branches or bushes. In Britain, the behavior, known as swarming, typically takes place from May to July and is a natural process in which a honeybee colony splits in half and leaves with a queen bee in search of a new home. But the country is currently experiencing a greater number of sightings for this time of year, most likely thanks to unseasonably warm weather that followed a cold, wet spell. As a result, beekeepers and pest-control workers who catch the swarms are reporting a surge in calls for their help as members of the public spot the clusters in backyards, in chimneys and even on barriers along city streets. Were fully booked for the next four weeks, said Rob Davies, a pest controller in Shropshire, in central England, who specializes in dismantling and rebuilding structures like chimneys to rescue honeybees, adding that he was getting ridiculous volumes of people calling for assistance. As the Khoswan family slept, the Israeli military dropped three GBU-39 bombs into their sixth-floor apartment. One of the bombs exploded just outside the parents bedroom, leaving the apartment looking as if a tornado had swept through, killing three family members. But they were not the stated target of the attack earlier this month. The Israeli military had dropped the bombs into their home to assassinate a commander of the Palestinian armed group Islamic Jihad who lived in the apartment below. Jamal Khoswan, a dentist, Mirvat Khoswan, a pharmacist, and their son, a 19-year-old dental student, were killed in the strike as well as the Islamic Jihad commander who lived downstairs, Tareq Izzeldeen, and two of his children, a girl, 11, and a boy, 9. Commanders have been targeted before, Menna Khoswan, 16, said this month at a memorial service for her father at the hospital where he served as chairman of the board. But to target the commander and those around him, honestly this is something we didnt expect. When Yasemin Oz, a lesbian lawyer in Istanbul, heard President Recep Tayyip Erdogan claiming victory after a runoff election on Sunday, she said she feared for the future. In his speech, he declared family is sacred for us and insisted that L.G.B.T.Q. people would never infiltrate his governing party. They were familiar themes, heard often throughout Mr. Erdogans campaign for re-election: He frequently attacked L.G.B.T.Q. people, referring to them as deviants and saying they were spreading like the plague. But Ms. Oz said she had hoped it was just electioneering to rally the presidents conservative base. I was already worried about what was to come for us, said Ms. Oz, 49. But after the speech, she thought, it will get harsher. The rights and freedoms of L.G.B.T.Q. citizens became a lightning-rod issue during this years election campaign. Mr. Erdogan, facing the greatest political threat of his two decades as the countrys dominant leader and seeking to woo conservatives, repeatedly attacked his opponents for supposedly supporting gay rights. The anti-Erdogan opposition mostly avoided the topic for fear of alienating some of its own voters. The United Arab Emirates announced on Wednesday that it had stopped participating in a maritime security force led by the United States, the latest hint of tensions between Washington and key Persian Gulf allies who complain that America has not done enough to protect them from Iranian threats. The unusual public statement came after Iran seized two commercial tankers in waterways near the Emirates in quick succession over the past two months. The Emirati Foreign Ministry said the country withdrew its participation from the Combined Maritime Forces two months ago as a result of our ongoing evaluation of effective security cooperation with all partners. Political analysts say the Emirati statement could be intended as a message to the United States that the country is displeased with the level of American protection for its allies in the Persian Gulf against threats from Iran and must look out for its own interests. Emirati and Saudi officials have repeatedly expressed frustration with U.S. policy toward Iran. They were unhappy with the Americans, and when the U.A.E. is not happy, they are very decisive, said Abdulkhaleq Abdulla, an Emirati political scientist. In February, an oil tanker transmitted a signal showing it was sailing west of Japan. But the tankers path was highly unusual. Over the course of a day, its signals showed erratic behavior as the ship rapidly changed position. A satellite image, taken during this time, deepened the mystery: There was no ship there at all. The Cathay Phoenix was sending a fake location signal. This is known as spoofing. In reality, the ship was 250 miles north loading oil at the Russian port of Kozmino, part of a journey to China that likely caused a breach of U.S. sanctions. Sources: Planet Labs, Copernicus Sentinel-2, Maxar Technologies, ESRI, GEBCO, Spire Global, MarineTraffic The Cathay Phoenix is not a lone rogue ship, but one of at least three tankers identified by The New York Times taking extraordinary steps to hide their true activity, a practice that helps them to elude U.S. government oversight and puts their American insurer at risk of violating recent sanctions on Russian crude oil. For years, ships wanting to hide their whereabouts have resorted to turning off the transponders all large vessels use to signal their location. But the tankers tracked by The Times go beyond this, using cutting-edge spoofing technology to make it appear theyre in one location when theyre really somewhere else. During at least 13 voyages, the three tankers pretended to be sailing west of Japan. In reality, they were at terminals in Russia and shipping oil to China. The vessels are part of a so-called dark fleet, a loose term used to describe a hodgepodge array of ships that obscure their locations or identities to avoid oversight from governments and business partners. They have typically been involved in moving oil from Venezuela or Iran two countries that have also been hit by international sanctions. The latest surge of dark fleet ships began after Russia invaded Ukraine and the West tried to limit Moscows oil revenue with sanctions. The type of spoofing we are seeing is uncommon and sophisticated, said David Tannenbaum, a former sanctions compliance officer at the U.S. Treasury, referring to the tankers identified by The Times. It definitely looks like evasion on all parts. To date, its been rare to prove the true location of a ship pretending to be somewhere else. But a Times analysis of publicly available shipping data, satellite imagery and social media footage helped clearly establish that the tankers were not where they claimed to be. The ships most likely sell their Russian oil to China above a price limit set by the sanctions. Since neither country recognizes the sanctions, the tankers themselves are not in violation by spoofing or carrying the oil. But the tankers still have motive to spoof: to maintain their insurance coverage, without which they cannot operate in most major ports. The only insurers financially able to cover tankers are mostly based in the West and bound by the sanctions. If a client ship were to carry Russian oil thats sold above the price limit, the Western insurer would be in violation of the sanctions and must drop its coverage. Its significant when you look at dollar terms, said Samir Madani, co-founder of TankerTrackers.com, which monitors global shipping, who first alerted The Times to several of the suspicious ships. Its around $1 billion worth of oil that is going under the radar while using Western insurance, and theyre using spoofing in order to preserve their Western insurance. In addition to the three tankers transporting oil, Times reporters tracked another three vessels spoofing while off the coast of Russia, though its unclear what cargo they carried. All six tankers are insured by a U.S.-based company, the American Club. The Times provided the company with the names of the tankers, as well as details about the voyages on which they spoofed. In an emailed response, Daniel Tadros, the American Clubs chief operating officer, said he could not comment on any potential investigations because of legal and privacy requirements. Insurance cover is automatically excluded in the event of sanctions violations, he said. The U.S. has also created so-called safe harbor provisions to protect insurers from liability if they inadvertently cover ships violating sanctions. As of May 30, a regularly updated list of American Clubs clients posted on its website showed the company is most likely still insuring the six tankers. There has been at least one change since The Times approached the company with evidence of spoofing. The website had said the Cathay Phoenixs current policy would expire in February 2024. But recently, the expiration date suddenly shifted much earlier to June 2023. The company would not comment on the reason for the change. (After this story was published, the coverage expiration for another tanker The Times found spoofing, Eternal Peace, was also changed to June from February 2024.) Tankers that The Times found spoofing since December Satellite images revealed the true locations of spoofing ships, which shared similar traits like age, ownership and insurer. Alma - IMO: 9235892 * Age: 20 years old Owned: Irish company Insured: American Club Cargo: Crude oil Spoofed location: Sea of Japan Found location: Kozmino oil terminal, Russia Cathay Phoenix - IMO: 9249324 Age: 22 years old Owned: Hong Kong company Insured: American Club Cargo: Crude oil Spoofed location: Near Niigata, Japan Found location: Kozmino oil terminal, Russia Eternal Peace - IMO: 9259745 Age: 19 years old Owned: Hong Kong company Insured: American Club Cargo: Crude oil Spoofed location: Near Niigata, Japan Found location: Kozmino oil terminal, Russia Ginza - IMO: 9220926 Age: 22 years old Owned: Hong Kong company Insured: American Club Cargo: Unknown Spoofed location: Near Varna, Bulgaria Found location: Taman, Russia Lady Ella - IMO: 9252436 Age: 20 years old Owned: Hong Kong company Insured: American Club Cargo: Unknown Spoofed location: Niigata Port, Japan Found location: Near Kozmino, Russia Snow Lotus - IMO: 9259733 Age: 19 years old Owned: Hong Kong company Insured: American Club Cargo: Unknown Spoofed location: Near Niigata, Japan Found location: Near Kozmino, Russia Sources: Planet Labs, Copernicus Sentinel-2, Maxar Technologies, MarineTraffic, Spire Global, Equasis, American Club Note: The International Maritime Organization issues an IMO number, a permanent identification number, that remains associated with vessels throughout their lifetime, unlike a ships name, which can change frequently. The three tankers known to carry crude oil began their 13 journeys at the Russian port of Kozmino, even as they pretended to be off the coast of Japan. Satellite and social media imagery, along with customs data, shows that the tankers loaded cargo from a terminal used solely for crude oil from the Eastern SiberiaPacific Ocean pipeline known as ESPO. They offloaded the oil in China. The sanctions began in December with crude oil, and eventually included other products like fuel oil. For crude specifically, there is a price cap of $60-per-barrel to limit Russias revenue from sales. The price of specific shipments is not public, but ESPOs average price has stayed well above the limit about $73-per-barrel according to a Times analysis of customs and export data. This suggests the tankers carried oil that sold above the price cap. That act alone may have put the American Club in breach of the sanctions, although the safe harbor rules make any penalty unlikely. Price of Russian ESPO blend oil since the start of the Ukraine war Source: Refinitiv While the total number of tankers violating the cap is unknown, U.S. officials insist that it remains effective. The price cap is achieving its dual goals: restricting Russias oil revenues while keeping Russian oil flowing, and markets stable and well-supplied, a U.S. Treasury spokesperson told The Times. Some analysts argue that the price data cited by the U.S. is flawed, and that the cap is not as effective as it may seem. To carry out their deception, the tankers can use military-grade equipment, or software, that is now commercially available. This technology makes it possible to manipulate a vessels reported location, which is broadcast by an automatic identification system, or AIS. The signals communicate a ships identification, location and route over a radio frequency picked up by other vessels, ground stations and satellites. For all the sophistication of the spoofing technology, there can be telltale signs for when it is being used, among them, odd geometric patterns in a ship's AIS data like the course seemingly carved by the Cathay Phoenix off Japan. Experts believe this may at times be the softwares attempt to mimic a vessel at anchor. The U.S. Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control has repeatedly warned American companies to watch AIS signals for evidence of deceptive behavior. In 2020, O.F.A.C. specifically advised insurers to research a vessels AIS history before providing coverage to avoid violating sanctions on various countries. An even starker warning came in April, with an alert that spoofing around Kozmino, in particular, was most likely related to Russian sanctions evasion. It advised American companies, including insurers, to use maritime intelligence services to detect suspicious activity. The U.S. government has identified the Russian oil-loading port of Kozmino as a possible location of sanctions violations. Konstantin Zavrazhin/Getty Images Maritime compliance experts say it can be difficult to detect spoofing among a large number of ships, but the specificity of O.F.A.C.s alert narrows down where insurers should focus. Now they have a reason to know this conduct occurs, and if they dont act on it they run the risk of being out of compliance, said Mr. Tannenbaum. Mr. Tadros, the American Club executive, would not specify the tools used by the company to try to identify spoofing, but said it relies on a robust framework of systems and controls, including monitoring services. The warning signs also exist on publicly available ship tracking websites, The Times found. A single journey by the Cathay Phoenix exemplifies several clear anomalies that reveal a tanker is spoofing. On March 8, the Cathay Phoenix leaves China signaling its headed to South Korea. During the trip, the tanker changes its AIS to signal a new destination: the port of Niigata, Japan. This is the moment it begins spoofing. On March 24, the ships fake signal comes to a stop just beyond the limit of Japanese jurisdiction, 70 miles from the port. Inexplicably, the ship broadcasts over AIS that its taking on more cargo despite never entering Niigata. This signal is received at a ground station nearly 400 miles away, near the port of Kozmino. This type of ground station only has a 40-mile radius. Its further evidence that the Cathay Phoenix is nowhere near its supposed location off the coast of Japan. A closer look at the Russian port hints at the truth. Several tug boats show theyre bringing a ship into port but no AIS signal is being broadcast from where the ship should be. A photo posted to Instagram by one of the tugboats crew shows whats really there: the Cathay Phoenix. Sources: Spire Global, MarineTraffic, Instagram Beyond monitoring for AIS abnormalities, O.F.A.C. also advises insurers to investigate the corporate histories of vessels in high-risk areas for sanctions evasion. The agency warns that ship owners may try to avoid scrutiny by using complex business structures, including those involving shell companies. Mr. Tannenbaum said a good time for insurers to look for warning signs was during the creation or renewal of a tankers policy. These are all common, standard know your customer practices that should be applied, he said. This is your opportunity to see if this is a bad apple ahead of time or not. According to the listings on the American Clubs website, policies for the six tankers were renewed in February, after three of them had already started spoofing while carrying Russian oil. Experts say the vessels exhibit characteristics that should raise questions. Most are owned by a shell company established less than three years ago some only after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. These companies are Chinese-run, registered in Hong Kong and own just a single aging ship which was recently purchased. While none of these factors are inherently problematic on their own and are quite commonplace taken altogether, they paint a picture of a group of vessels and companies that warrants further investigation, said Min Chao Choy, an analyst with C4ADS, a Washington-based nonprofit analyzing global security threats. She added that when factoring in that the tankers are also spoofing, they fit a pattern commonly seen in maritime sanctions evasion activity. A Times reporter visited addresses listed for the tankers owners in Hong Kong, and found only secretarial services occupying the offices a common hallmark of shell companies. Four of the owners did not respond to letters from The Times requesting an interview. A spokesperson for the owner of another tanker which visited Russia, the Ginza, told The Times by email that the ship was carrying a plant-based oil, and that the company was unaware the tankers AIS signal was spoofing. The spokesperson also said the company lacked the technical knowledge to identify spoofing behavior. The spoofing tankers using American insurance show that the practice is not limited to Russian oil alone. The Times found that five of the tankers pretended to be elsewhere while visiting ports in Iran or Venezuela or receiving oil from those countries through a ship-to-ship transfer at sea. At least two ships, the Cathay Phoenix and Eternal Peace, carried crude oil, a potential breach of sanctions. And the Ginza, too, faked its whereabouts last fall, pretending to be off the coast of Oman. The Times found its real location after discovering a crew members Instagram video: The tanker was near an Iranian port. Satellite imagery also showed it docked at a berth for loading petrochemical products. The owners spokesperson said the company was unaware of this behavior, too. The Times verified the location and timeframe of a video and photo collage posted by a Ginza crew member to Instagram, with a location sticker that read Iran. Source: Instagram Note: Faces have been blurred to protect the posters anonymity. The U.S. Treasury official told The Times that in the case of Russian crude, if a U.S. entity learns that it is providing cover to price-cap evaders, coverage must be dropped. Earlier this year, the American Club removed at least 15 vessels owned by an India-based company from its website, according to a report by Lloyds List. The company, Gatik Ship Management, owns a fleet of 50 newly acquired tankers dedicated to the Russian oil trade, the report said. The American Club declined to explain its reasoning for the decision to The Times. Alloy signs on as agency of record for enterprise learning solution Litmos. The agency has been engaged to design a comprehensive thought leadership and corporate communications program focused on making the Litmos platform the preferred choice for prospective clients and all departments of current customers. Founded in 2007 and acquired by Francisco Partners in 2022, Litmos' solutions are used by more than 20 million people in 150 countries, across 35 languages. We have confidence in their ability to tell our story and drive demand among our key vertical markets," said Litmos CMO Sharon Lubrano. LDPR is named the agency of record for Octant Hotels, a collection of eight luxury boutique hotels across Portugal. The agencys scope of work for the client will include all PR programming, encompassing print and digital media relations, influencer and brand partnerships, and media visit programs. Octant is part of Discovery Hotel Management, created by Explorer Investments, one of Portugals largest private equity companies. It operates properties in Castelo de Paiva, Lousa, Alentejo, the Algarve and the Azores. Communicad is engaged as agency of record for Teijin Automotive Technologies, a manufacturer of advanced automotive components, systems and software. The agency will be responsible for providing a full range of marketing and communications services, including strategy, creative development, media planning and buying and digital marketing. It will also provide strategic counsel and support to help the company reach its business objectives. "They have a proven track record of delivering excellent results for their clients and we are confident that they will help us to continue to grow our business," said Teijin Automotive Technologiues director of corporate communications Kim Zitny. After over a decade of campaigning for the future of Roscrea's only public nursing home, it appears the light at the end of the long tunnel has been reached by the dedicated activists who never gave up the fight for the provision of long-term beds in Roscrea for Roscrea people. Keeping people in their hometown and close to family was always the top priority for campaigners who fought to safeguard the future of the Dean Maxwell Community Nursing Home in Roscrea. This week, John Lupton, Chairman of the Roscrea Community Development Council (RCDC) which led the campaign in recent years to protect the facility's future, said that priority has been achieved thanks to a new deal which will see Dean Maxwell incorporate the nearby Mount Carmel Nursing Home. On Monday it was confirmed the HSE will purchase the Mount Carmel site, which is adjacent to the Dean Maxwell home and St. Cronan's RC Church. The Dean Maxwell will also be renovated. The current owners of Mount Carmel, the Sisters of Marie Madeleine Postel, announced they are pleased that the HSE Capital Plan provides for the long-term continuation of care at Mount Carmel in Roscrea, "subject to due diligence". Mount Carmel consists of the nursing home, independent living, and a new Convent, which will be vacated in a timeline agreed with the HSE. The Convent can be converted into care facilities, which will add to the overall care provision for older persons in North Tipperary. Mount Carmel is an integrated care facility and the addition of care provision within the Convent and within the, to be renovated Dean Maxwell Home provides for improved and expanded elder care provision in the area. The Sisters of Marie Madeleine Postel said they are pleased that their care centre will remain a not-for-profit care facility and are happy to be commencing the journey of transfer of ownership to the HSE. The Sisters added they are especially appreciative of the guidance and assistance which they have from Deputy Michael Lowry in this matter, which was echoed by RCDC Chairman, John Lupton. Mr Lupton said he wanted to extend gratitude and that of his fellow Council members that the rights of the elderly people of Roscrea and its environs, who need long term residential community care or will need it in the future, will continue to be provided for in Roscrea. Roscrea is "their town of belonging, rather than Roscrea people being forced to live their twilight years 20 miles away", Mr Lupton said, referencing previous concerns that the creation of a new 50-bed facility in St. Conlon's in Nenagh in 2020 spelled the writing on the wall for the future of the Dean Maxwell home. "This was the prospect facing Roscreas Dean Maxwell home residents and the many Roscrea people who will need long term community nursing care going into the future", he said. Mr Lupton said the assurance provided in the National Development Plan 2023 reassures Roscrea and its community, but especially the Dean Maxwell residents, their families and those who will need long term community nursing care into the future. He said the role of Michael Lowry TD in this matter must be particularly acknowledged and applauded "as he used his strategic political position in the Dail to the benefit of Roscrea in this particular issue". He said Deputy Lowrys request to the then Taoiseach Micheal Martin from the floor of the Dail for a meeting with all the stakeholders with regard to the future of Dean Maxwell, and which he called to the Taoiseach himself to chair, was very significant in securing the future of the Dean Maxwell home. The Taoiseach did chair that meeting in Leinster House, which later resulted in the purchase of Mount Carmel. "That commitment has been copper fastened by the inclusion in the current Capital Development Plan of a commitment to purchase Mount Carmel in the current year", Mr Lupton said. He also welcomed the commitment in the Development Plan that the existing Dean Maxwell building will be refurbished and repurposed as part of the overall service plan for the area. "RCDC are well aware that much requires to be done and that ongoing vigilance needs to take place to ensure that the elderly in Roscrea and its environs continue to be able to avail of the services presently being availed of under the Dean Maxwell facility. "RCDC also appreciates that in an ideal world it may be preferable to have a new 50 bed unit built in Roscrea, as is happening in Nenagh, but there were no such offers in that regard or no likelihood of such ever emerging", Mr Lupton told this newspaper. 'MY POLITICAL PRIORITY' - LOWRY "I made it my political priority to redress the injustice done to the people of Roscrea when the last HSE plan was formulated", Deputy Lowry told the Tribune. "I have invested a huge amount of time and political capital to deliver a solution for elderly care in Roscrea. It has taken a great deal of work, cooperation, negotiation to reach this stage. With the unfailing support and trust of the local Committee, I have pushed this project at every opportunity and thankfully doors have opened to me with a positive result", he said. Deputy Lowry said that key to the long-term continuation of care in Roscrea is the purchase by the HSE of the Mount Carmel complex, which includes the current Nursing Home and adjacent buildings. The Convent will be vacated to provide for the provision of additional accommodation and a small parcel of land will also be available for further expansion, he explained, adding the entire facility will become a community care centre under the management of the HSE. Staff currently working at Mount Carmel will come under the auspices of the HSE. "Sadly, this will result in the end of an era for the Sisters of Marie Madeleine Postel. However, they are very happy with the current plans and the fact that the facilities they have created will be used for the good of the people in Roscrea", Deputy Lowry said. "Meanwhile, the cherished Dean Maxwell Nursing Home and its staff will continue its vital role for elderly care in the town. The building will be completely refurbished to accommodate day care, respite, and a range of other services. "Key to the changes and adjustments that lie ahead, is the fact that Roscrea will retain long-stay elderly care beds for local people in a unit that will be fully compliant with modern-day standards. Labour Tipperary TD, Alan Kelly, welcomed the news but pointed out many questions still surround the plans. "It has always been my aim to make it possible for elderly Roscrea people to stay living in their own town. Local people continually highlighted this necessity to me. This desire was always understood and appreciated by me. "Moving older people to facilities in other towns, where visits by family and friends would be made extremely difficult is something I could never be associated with. People deserve the support and close proximity of family and friends as they age, and I am happy to have played a role with the local Committee in ensuring that this happens in Roscrea", Deputy Lowry said. 'QUESTIONS REMAIN' - KELLY Labour Tipperary TD, Alan Kelly welcomed the news, but said four critical questions still surround some facets of the plan. "While welcoming the recent announcement and interest shown by the HSE in putting elderly care in Roscrea into the 2023 capital plan, I agree with the Chairman of RCDC, John Lupton, that there are still are many questions left to be answered and a long way to go before we see a solution to the ongoing issue of long term elderly care in the town", Deputy Kelly said. "Firstly, when will the due diligence on this plan be completed and have the HSE agreed internally that it is possible to implement this plan and have they demonstrated that it is the best health solution for the town and environs and best value for investment? "Secondly, how long will the purchase of Mount Carmel Nursing home take?", he asked. "Thirdly and most importantly, will the HSE demonstrate how this plan will ensure there are at least the same amount of elderly care beds in total in the town of Roscrea following the implementation of this plan? "Fourthly, what will happen to the current Dean Maxwell site? How will the facility be used into the future for potential respite and other services? "Its important to get all these questions answered and any timelines in place so we can let the public know where we are going", Deputy Kelly said. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has arrived in the Republic of Moldova to participate in the 2nd European Political Community Summit. At Chisinau International Airport, the head of state was met by officials. The Armenian side has always welcomed the efforts made by the US in the process of establishing peace, stability, and security in the South Caucasus. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Armenian has noted this in a comment on the press statement made by the spokesperson of the US State Department on Tuesday. May 31, 2023, 14:19 Armenia MFA: US should adequately respond to Azerbaijan president statements STEPANAKERT, MAY 31, ARTSAKHPRESS: We think it should be obvious to all our partners that in the process of normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, both the recognition of each other's territorial integrity and inviolability of borders based on the Alma-Ata Declaration and addressing the rights and security of the people of Nagorno Karabakh are key. As we emphasized in the statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia on May 29, the recognition of the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan cannot be interpreted as authority to carry out ethnic cleansing and against the people of Nagorno-Karabakh, the comment continues. It is impossible not to notice that the statements made by the President of Azerbaijan on May 28 not only did not offer dignified solutions to the above-mentioned problems, but also contained clear threats to the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Armenia and the right of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh to live in security and with dignity in their homeland, which the Armenian side has repeatedly raised the alarm. Our partners have been alerted about this many times, the comment adds. We believe that the United States, based on its own values of democracy and human rights protection and its commitment and involvement in the establishment of lasting peace in the region, should adequately respond to these statements in order to prevent the expansionist policy of the Azerbaijani leadership towards the sovereign territory of the Republic of Armenia and attempts of ethnic cleansing in Nagorno Karabakh, concludes the comment by the Armenian MFA. OFFALY Public Participation Network (PPN) has launched the Property Marking Machine in conjunction with the Gardai and Offaly County Council. Offaly PPN Secretariat sourced funding for the machine via the Community Activities Fund administered by Offaly Co. Co. Offaly Co. Co. provided funds to cover the training element. Sergeant Graham Kavanagh, Crime Prevention Officer Laois Offaly provided direction and support to assist in the roll out of the training. Thanks to James O Neill, Emma Thompson and Josephine Loughlin Property Marking Ireland for their assistance on the purchasing and roll out of training. Training took place in Mucklagh Community Centre on April 22nd . Community Watch members and Mens Shed participants undertook the training. Further opportunities to engage in training will take place later this year. Cllr Eddie Fitzpatrick, Chair of the Offaly Joint Policing Committee welcomed the initiative and reflected on its value in the wider community. The Property Marking machine offers farmers an opportunity to put a distinctive mark on their Machinery and for households to mark Quads, Bicycles, Lawnmowers etc. Cllr Fitzpatrick also thanked Bridie Costello Hynes the PPN Coordinator for her work on this project and hopefully it will provide a safety barrier to all sectors. Superintendent John Lawless stated: An Garda Siochana supports property marking as a very valuable crime prevention initiative. Every day we recover property and make every effort to find their rightful owner. Property marking acts as a deterrent to the criminal to steal the item in the first place. If property is stolen, Property Marking increases the chances of the items being recovered, returned to its owner and speeds up the process of prosecuting those involved. We would encourage the use of the Garda Property app, which is available to download on the Apple and Google Play Stores. The App allows you to make a digital inventory of valuable property around the home or business. The Crime Prevention Officer Laois Offaly Sergeant Graham Kavanagh stated that property marking is now available in nearly every county in Ireland and since its commencement a number of years ago it has proven itself as an effective crime prevention initiative. It works with Communities, local authorities and Gardai working together as we have done here in Offaly and are working on in Laois. Thank you to Offaly PPN and Mr James ONeill Property Marking Ireland for their help. The Machine is now available to Communities. The Machine can be booked via Offaly PPN Contact Offaly PPN at ppn@offalycoco.ie Property marking will take place in conjunction with the Community Garda unit Family Carers Ireland, the national charity supporting the 500,000+ family carers across Ireland, is proud to announce the launch of their national fundraising initiative, Heart of Gold, in Offaly. Supported by Horizon, Heart of Gold is a special fundraising initiative dedicated to raising vital funds, awareness, and appreciation for family carers who selflessly provide care and support to their loved ones such as children or adults with additional needs, physical or intellectual disabilities, frail older people, those with palliative care needs or those living with chronic illnesses, mental health challenges or addiction. The purpose of the day is not only to raise funds for Family Carers Ireland's critical programs and services, but to also raise awareness about the challenges faced by family carers. The proceeds collected will enable the organisation to provide crucial resources such as information, support, and advocacy for family carers, as well as drive policy changes that improve the quality of life for both carers and their loved ones. The funds raised will be utilised to sustain the provision of essential and complimentary services that family carers rely on to care for their loved ones safely. These services include the National Freephone Careline, counselling, and respite, which are invaluable lifelines for family carers. In addition, Family Carers Ireland facilitate support groups, social events, training, and carers' forums to help family carers feel less isolated in their caring responsibilities. Heart of Gold Day initiative is a chance for the people of Offaly to show their support for family carers by simply donating and wearing a special Heart of Gold pin. The pins will be available for purchase from volunteers on Thursday 15th and Friday 16th June. Speaking about the launch Beth Wogan, Local Support Manager, Family Carers Ireland said: "We are delighted to officially launch our Heart of Gold fundraising campaign in Offaly. The work of family carers is often unseen and undervalued, but it is essential. We hope that the people of Offaly will show their support for family carers by getting involved in this initiative. This vital campaign aims to secure funds that will enable family carers to access crucial supports and services. The funds raised from the Heart of Gold campaign will enable us to sustain support for family carers in Offaly. Our focus is on providing group meetings, as well as connecting with family carers over the phone and through home visits, to ensure they receive the support when and where they need it. "We invite everyone to join us on Heart of Gold Day to honour the incredible work of family carers and help us make a difference in their lives. With the support of our dedicated volunteers and the generosity of people in Offaly, we can continue to raise awareness, advocate for positive change, and provide vital support to family carers throughout Ireland." Lynsey ODonovan, Family Carer said Family Carers Ireland has been a lifeline for me and my family. Their support has helped us navigate the challenges of caring for a loved one. I am grateful for the work they do, and I know that with our support, they can continue to make a real difference in the lives of carers and their loved ones." For more information on the Heart of Gold Day initiative or to purchase a pin, please visit the Family Carers Ireland website at www.familycarers.ie. Two men handed over 4,000 in compensation to be paid to the victim of an assault at last week's district court. Brothers Dylan McDonagh and Patrick McDonagh both of 29, Cluin na Spidoega, Cloghan, assaulted Damien Bannon causing him harm at the Phoenix Bar, Tullamore, on June 6, 2022. Mr Bannon was taken to Tullamore hospital afterwards. At a previous court sitting the mother of the injured party said her son had lost some of his back teeth as a result of the assault and suffered a fractured skull. In the weeks after the assault he became very anxious and worried. At last week's sitting of the court, Judge Andrew Cody said the brothers had dragged and punched the injured party on the floor, it was quite serious, he said. Sergeant James O'Sullivan said Dylan McDonagh had no previous convictions. Patrick McDonagh had two. One a section 6 and the other a section 2 assault. Judge Cody imposed a three month sentence on both defendants which he suspended for two years on their own bond of 100. By Mata Press Service Canada has announced new measures to help new immigrant families come together more quickly, a move that will also help address the countrys chronic labour shortage. Recognizing the importance of employment for newcomers and their families, Canada has also introduced open work permits for spousal applicants and their dependent children who are residing with their sponsor in Canada and possess temporary resident status. This means that spouses, partners, and dependents can apply for and receive an open work permit as soon as they submit a complete permanent residence application under the spouse or common-law partner in Canada class (SPCLC) or other family class programs. The new measures to strengthen family reunification, include; faster temporary resident visa (TRV) processing times for spousal applicants new and dedicated processing tools for spousal TRV applicants a new open work permit for spousal and family class applicants open work permit extensions for open work permit holders expiring between August 1 and the end of 2023 Family reunification through immigration is not only a matter of compassion; it is a fundamental pillar of Canadian society, said Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC). We are supporting Canadians and newcomers by reuniting families faster and also allowing them to work and support themselves more quickly once theyre here. By doing so, Canada is helping newcomers achieve their true potential, while also strengthening Canadas economy and social fabric, he said. Family reunification lies at the heart of building vibrant and inclusive communities, said Hedy Fry, Member of Parliament for Vancouver Centre. In Vancouver, we know that when families are united, they become stable, put down roots and begin to build a future, she said. Fraser said the faster temporary resident visa (TRV) processing and more considerate application measures will be initiated so that families can be together sooner while they wait for their permanent residence to be finalized. Going forward, most of these applications will be processed within 30 days, and applicants will benefit from processing measures specific to their circumstances as spouses and dependents. Many applications have already been processed using these new tools. Within this cohort of applicants, we have seen an approval rate of 93%, he said in a statement. Once in Canada, newcomers often seek jobs to support themselves and their families. That is why Canada has also made open work permits available for spousal applicants and their dependent children who reside with their sponsor in Canada and have temporary resident status. Spouses, partners and dependants are now able to apply for and receive an open work permit as soon as they submit a complete permanent residence application under the spouse or common-law partner in Canada class (SPCLC) or other family class programs. The family class of immigrants is the second most common immigrant category, according to Canadas Immigration Levels Plan. According to the government of Canada, the country will receive 106,500 immigrants from the family class segment in 2023. It includes 78,000 spouses, partners, children, and parents, as well as 28,500 grandparents. It is estimated that 118,000 new immigrants will be accepted by the year 2025 under the family category. Meanwhile, Data from Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows that the backlog of applications in inventory, across all lines of business, is now just slightly over 800,000, reported CIC News. The numbers are current as of April 30. There are 2,006,000 million applications in inventory in total. IRCC defines its inventory as applications that have not been finalized. The department says it finalized more than 5.2 million applications in 2022, double the number it finalized in 2021. The latest inventory data does not reflect the full period of the recent labour disruption caused by the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) strike that lasted 12 days between April 19 and May 1, 2023. During the final week of the strike, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser told reporters that there were approximately 100,000 applications not processed throughout the strike that otherwise would have been but said that it would not take long for IRCC to get back on track and process any resulting backlog. Finally, Minister Fraser announced that spousal applicants, along with other open work permit holders, whose open work permits expire between August 1 and the end of 2023, will be able to extend their work permits for an additional 18 months. A similar option was recently offered to many with expiring post-graduation work permits. Quick facts Porunai Museum: A Symbol Of Tamil Pride & Heritage Chennai oi-Oneindia English Desk Adichanallur excavation in 1876 was the very first excavation that happened in India. Adichanallur came to the limelight when German explorer Dr. F. Jagor unearthed surprising finds, later handing them over to a Berlin museum. He was the pioneer of archaeological excavations in India. British undertook detailed studies headed by archaeologist Alexander Rea from 1899 to 1905 determining it as an ancient human settlement of the Iron Age. The collected artefacts from this British archaeologist are in preservation at the Chennai Government Museum. Most of the findings from Alexander's excavations had unearthed several burial urns, skeletons, more than 50 clay pots, and artefacts ranging from golden diadems to weapons made of iron. The most exciting information is there were two earthen pots which were found along with the preserved husk. Similarly, M. Louis Lapicque of Paris explored the site in 1903-04 which resulted in additional collections. All these collections were later shifted to the Chennai Museum. Enderson, Manager at the Chennai Museum, has released a book under the title 'Catalogue of the Prehistoric Antiquities from Adichanallur and Perumbair'. Adichanallur located along the Thamirabarani river in Thoothukudi district of southern Tamil Nadu has been an active playground of archaeologists and anthropologists for more than 150 years. In Adichanallur, a mount called Parambu is spread across 114 acres of land on the southern bank of the Thanporunai river. The name 'Parambu' denotes that the land is not useful enough for cultivating crops. So, the land was used as a burial ground in ancient times. When the excavations took place, archaeologists found so many burial urns. It was buried underground at 3 to 12 feet depth. This shows that this area was the biggest burial ground of ancient times that was ever found. These burial urns also have high-quality bronze and iron vessels which were buried along with the people. Also, kites made of gold have been found during this excavation. A great turning point in this study was the discovery of a historical figure. Researchers found a female figure at Adichanallur similar to the one found in the Indus Valley excavations. Along with this statue, many bronze vessels, urns, weapons made up of iron, jewels and toys were found. That's why the researchers termed this spot the 'cradle of Tamil civilisation'. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK. Stalin, who realised the grandeur of this excavation, laid the foundation stone for the Rs 33.2-crore museum to come up in Tirunelveli. This Porunai Museum will also be constructed in the same 'Chettinad style' as 'The Keezhadi Museum'. The museum, which is to span over 55,000 square feet, would house ancient artefacts unearthed in Korkai, Sivagangai and Adichanallur. Historian Kamarasu said, "It's been 145 years ever since the first excavation was done at Adichanallur. The world is yet to know about this wonderful history. But CM Stalin understood the pride it carries and laid the foundation stone for this Porunai Museum. After Independence, the first excavation by the government was held at Adichanallur in 2004. But the research report wasn't published.'' ''A case was filed in the Madurai Bench of High Court. But today CM Stalin made all the effort to" fulfil our wishes. We are highly thankful to our Chief Minister. Also, in Tamilnadu Government, this excavation was once given up by the Union government. Our Tamil history will echo worldwide and Porunai Museum will prove that the Tamil civilisation is ancient," he added. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 11:38 [IST] Cheetah Revival Project Officials To Be Sent On Study Tours To Namibia and SA 6 Deaths In A Row Pose A Major Challenge To India's 'Project Cheetah' India oi-Deepika S A series of deaths of cheetahs at Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park (KNP) has cast a shadow on the Central government's ambitious 'Project Cheetah' which aims to re-establish the species in its historical range in India. When the Namibian cheetah 'Siyaya' gave birth to four cubs on 29 March, she expected cool winter nights, but instead what she got was a scorching summer in India, with heatwaves sometimes hovering over 45 degrees Celsius. These vulnerable creatures were indeed deceived by the harsh summer in India with the death of three cheetah cubs within a span of seven days. With this, the number of cheetah deaths has reached a total of six -- three cubs and three adults -- within a span of just two months. How Kuno kept losing them one by one On March 27, a female cheetah, named 'Sasha', that arrived at KNP from Namibia died due to an infection in her kidneys. She was one of the eight big cats brought to India on September 17 last year, to launch India's Project Cheetah. Cheetah Revival Project Officials To Be Sent On Study Tours To Namibia and SA Six-year-old Sasha fell ill in late January. Her blood results indicated that she had chronic renal insufficiency. She was successfully stabilised by the veterinary team at KNP, but later died in March. After her, Uday, an adult male cheetah, died due to heart failure on April 24. On May 9, another female cheetah, named Daksha, died due to a fight with another male during mating. On May 23, three India-born cheetah cubs died at KNP due to weakness and a sweltering heat wave. According to forest officials, the daytime temperature in Madhya Pradesh was around 46-47 degrees Celsius and the cubs were found severely dehydrated. Despite treatment, they could not be saved. Can heat prove fatal? Yes, heat can be challenging for cheetahs as they are adapted to thrive in specific environments with suitable temperatures. While cheetahs are well-adapted to warm climates, excessive heat can pose risk to their health and even be fatal under certain circumstances. Cheetahs are built for speed rather than endurance, and they are not as efficient at dissipating heat as some other species in the big cat family can do. Their slender body and respiratory system are designed for short bursts of intense activity rather than prolonged exertion. When temperatures rise, cheetahs may struggle to regulate their body temperature effectively, which can lead to heat stress or exhaustion. Residents Around Kuno National Park Offer Prayers For Well-Being Of Cheetah Moreover, heat can also negatively impact their prey availability. As the ambient temperature rises, some of the cheetah's prey may become less active or seek shelter, which can lead to decreased hunting success and food scarcity. Is cheetah deaths a setback? The death of six big cats in a quick session has given a tough time to the authorities of Project Cheetah, India's grand wildlife experiment to restore the population of these endangered creatures, who had gone extinct in the country. Forest officials believe that India's reintroduction project is going to see even higher moralities in the next few months. Endangered cheetah populations have a staggeringly high rate of infant mortality. According to experts, about 90 per cent of infant mortality prevails among cheetahs while just 5 per cent of their cubs survive to see adulthood. In such a situation, it remains to be seen whether the authorities concerned would be able to take the project forward. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 10:23 [IST] Bihar Model Accuses Institute Owner Of Love Jihad, Forced Conversion; Case Filed India oi-Madhuri Adnal A young woman aspiring to be a model has come forward with allegations of harassment and blackmail against the owner of a grooming institute in Ranchi. After enduring unbearable harassment, she relocated to Mumbai but was still subjected to further harassment, prompting her to file a complaint with the Versova Police, as reported by local sources. The accused, identified as Tanveer Khan, allegedly befriended the woman during her modelling workshop in Ranchi, introducing himself as Yash. However, she later discovered his real name and claimed that he coerced her into marrying him and converting her religion to Islam, invoking the term love jihad in her complaint. According to the victim, a native of Bhagalpur in Bihar, the harassment began in 2021 when Khan allegedly raped her, harassed her, and blackmailed her. She stated that he also issued threats, warning her of severe consequences if she dared to disclose their interactions to anyone. In her complaint, the woman detailed her acquaintance with Tanveer Khan and how he allegedly drugged and took compromising photos of her during Holi celebrations. From there, the situation escalated to blackmail, physical abuse, and religious conversion pressure. Fearing for her safety, she finally decided to approach the police. While Tanveer Khan admitted to his wrongdoing and attempted to coerce the victim into withdrawing her complaint, he submitted an affidavit to the court acknowledging his harassment but claiming that his intention was never to harm her. He argued that these tactics were employed to sustain their relationship and promised not to engage in such behavior in the future. However, his actions persisted despite his statement. The victim took to Twitter, sharing a video in which she appealed for security to the Chief Minister of Jharkhand. Currently, the police are conducting a thorough investigation into the case, which has been transferred from Mumbai to Ranchi for further proceedings. However, substantial action has yet to be taken. The Versova Police had initially registered a case against Tanveer Khan under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the IT Act, including charges of rape, harassment, blackmail, and intimidation. Recently, the case was transferred to the Ranchi Police for further handling. #WATCH | The complainant lodged a complaint with Mumbai Police at Versova Police Station on 29th May. Since the incident took place in Ranchi, this case was transferred to Ranchi Police. We have lodged a proper FIR and we are investigating this case. Further action will be taken: pic.twitter.com/Vr4nrQSMYh ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 In response to the allegations, Tanveer Khan released a video denying the accusations and claiming that the victim had circulated his nude photos among her friends and family. He further alleged that she had conspired with her friends and boyfriend to steal his data, which reportedly contained information about over 60,000 international and Indian models. Jess Clarke copped a massive phone bill after returning from her first big overseas holiday. Jess Clarke received a shock phone bill after returning from an overseas holiday. (Source: Supplied) Jess Clarke had just boarded a boat in Split, Croatia when she realised something was wrong. About 20 minutes in, I felt a bit off, and quickly realised I had left a small wallet on the dock, Clarke told Yahoo Finance. Inside that wallet was a SIM I had purposely bought for the trip, medications, and my passport - so pretty much the last things youd want to forget. Clarke said she urgently needed to use her phone to contact friends she was seeing in Dubrovnik, work out how to get an emergency passport and touch base with her family - so she decided to turn her phone data back on. The 25-year-old said she only used her phone for about a week, later finding a local SIM card in Greece. But she was still greeted by a shock bill when she returned home. I ended up racking up a phone bill of about $750. I felt absolutely sick when I opened it. I had organised so many things for this trip, and had been saving in the lead-up, so it was deflating to be slammed with this bill, she said. I knew it would be big, but I didnt think itd be this big. I was a student at the time, so this bill caused a lot of anxiety. I went on a payment plan to pay it off. Travel horror stories Belong head of product Aaliah Eggins-Bryson said wed all heard of travel horror stories like Clarkes, with customers often hit with enormous international roaming bills. Research from the telco found more than half of Aussies were planning to travel overseas in the next 12 months. Half of Aussies said disconnection was a concern for them when travelling abroad, with many hoping to use social media (54 per cent), texts (48 per cent), phone calls (41 per cent) and email (35 per cent) to stay connected. How to avoid bill shock If you want to avoid a travel horror story, Eggins-Bryson said it was important to plan ahead. Some of your options to stay connected include buying a global roaming pack, a prepaid travel SIM, a local SIM card, or relying on free Wi-Fi. If you decided to get an international roaming plan, Eggins-Bryson recommended looking for one that was pre-paid or where you paid up front. When data is charged in per-megabyte increments, it makes it really hard to control your spend. Some mobile providers offer both so its best to check before you go overseas and start racking up a massive bill, she said. Here are her top tips to avoid bill shock Plan ahead - do your research and pre-plan and pre-book as much as you can Have a budget - this can help you avoid ending up with an enormous roaming bill Pay attention to usage alerts - these are text messages that remind you how much you have spent or used Yahoo Finance understands Clarke's travel incident occurred five years ago and is not connected to Telstra or Belong. Follow Yahoo Finance on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter, and subscribe to our free daily newsletter. Congress Targets Smriti Irani With 'Missing' Poster; Minister says 'Contact US' India oi-Prakash KL Shortly after Congress targeted Union Minister Smriti Irani with a 'missing poster', the BJP leader gave a sharp response by taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, who is on a 10-day trip to the US. The grand old party had shared a 'missing poster' apparently for not responding to the ongoing wrestlers' protest. In the follow-up post, Congress said that Irani "hides the tweets", while another Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi runs away from taking questions related to the protests. Responding to the 'missing poster', the Women and Child Development Minister said, "O divine political creature, I have just left Sirsira village, Vidhan Sabha Salon, Lok Sabha Amethi towards Dhuranpur," Taking a potshot at Rahul Gandhi, she said, "If looking for former MP please contact US." It has to be noted that Irani had defeated Rahul Gandhi in Amethi in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The country's top wrestlers have been demanding the arrest of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment allegations. Since April 23, they have been protesting at Jantar Mantar. On Tuesday, they went to Haridwar to immerse their medals but they were stopped by farmer leader Naresh Tikait. The grapplers then issued a five-day ultimatum to the authorities to act against the WFI chief. However, the WFI chief has claimed that he would hang himself if the sexual harassment allegation is proven against him. "If a single allegation against me is proven, I will hang myself," ANI quoted the WFI chief as saying at a public rally in UP's Barabanki. So far, two FIRs have been filed against the WFI chief. While the first FIR related to allegations by a minor wrestler and was registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the second was related to outraging modesty. However, the opposition parties and several organisations have extended support to the protestors. Delhi Murder Was Pre-Meditated, Not A Crime Of Passion India oi-Vicky Nanjappa The brutal killing of a 16-year old girl in Delhi on Sunday was planned over a period of three days, the police have learnt. The accused Sahil said that the killing was a result of a verbal spat between them, which broke out last Thursday. This has led the police to believe that the murder was pre-meditated and not a 'crime of passion' as was suspected earlier. Sahil had been stalking the girl since Saturday. He waited in the lane where one of the girl's friends lived and eventually approached her as she emerged from a public toilet. He then stabbed her multiple times with a knife and then pounded her body with a stone slab even as the onlookers did not intervene. In Chilling Murder Case Of Delhi Teen, Accused Tells Cops, 'No Regrets The police have learnt that the knife was purchased by him from Haridwar. It was however not known immediately as to why he had purchased the knife. Special Commisioner of Police, Deependra Pathak told the media that, Sahil had said that there was a confrontation between the two on Thursday where the victim is said to have insulted Sahil. "This was pre-meditated and we are building a water-tight case to ensure that he is given the harshest of punishment," he also added. Sahil said that after the murder, he went to the Rithala Metro Station, where he dumped the knife, following which he travelled to his aunt's home in Uttar Pradesh. He was eventually arrested from UP's Bulandshahr. The police are yet to recover the knife, although they have seized his phone and the bloodstained clothes he had worn at the time of the murder. The police are also establishing the chats between the accused and the victim. Break-Up, Frequent Fights: Cops Dig Reasons Behind Delhi Teens Murder The police have learnt that the two were allegedly in a relationship for two years. Only recently they had stopped seeing each other. The parents of the girl have however denied any information of the two being in a relationship. Delhi Ordinance Row: Kejriwal Plans To Meet Stalin, Hemant Soren To Drum Up Support India oi-PTI Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will meet his Tamil Nadu and Jharkhand counterparts to drum up support in opposing the central ordinance on control over administrative services in the national capital. "Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (June 1) to seek DMK's support against Centre's unconstitutional-undemocratic 'Anti-Delhi' Ordinance," he tweeted on Wednesday. "Day after tomorrow, on June 2, I will meet Jharkand Chief Minister Hemant Soren in Ranchi. Will seek his support against the ordinance promulgated by Modi government against the people of Delhi," he said in another tweet. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo has been reaching out to leaders of non-BJP parties to garner support against the ordinance so that the Centre's bid to replace it through a bill is defeated when it is brought in Parliament. The Centre had on May 19 promulgated the ordinance to create an authority for the transfer and posting of Group-A officers in Delhi, which the AAP government had called a deception with the Supreme Court verdict on control of services. The ordinance came a week after the apex court handed over the control of services in Delhi, excluding police, public order and land, to the elected government. It seeks to set up a National Capital Civil Service Authority for the transfer of and disciplinary proceedings against Group-A officers from the DANICS cadre. Delhi, Punjab Units Caution Congress Against Kejriwal Outreach The Centre will have to bring a bill in Parliament to replace the ordinance within six months of its promulgation. Transfer and postings of all officers of the Delhi government were under the executive control of the lieutenant governor before the top court's May 11 verdict. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief leader Uddhav Thackeray, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have so far extended their support to the AAP. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar as well as his deputy Tejaswi Yadav and RJD leader have also supported Kejriwal in the matter. The AAP national convenor has requested for time to meet Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi to seek their support against the ordinance. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 13:11 [IST] Four Pakistani Terrorists Intercepted By Indian Army Along Line Of Control India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Four terrorists have been intercepted by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police along the Line of Control in the Poonch sector, while they were trying to infiltrate into India. They were attempting to cross the fence, when they were intercepted, officials said. Officials further added that the Army and police recovered some weapons, war-like stores, including one IED and narcotics from the terrorists. Further, one Indian soldier was injured in the firing and has been evacuated, the PRO Defence said. The development comes in the backdrop of the Indian Intelligence Bureau sounding a warning that the ISI may look to infiltrate more terrorists into India. There has been a tight vigil along the border with Pakistan as there were reports that terrorists would look to disrupt the G20 meet that was held in Srinagar last week. India had told Pakistan that there would be repercussions if terrorists from the country tried to create trouble during the summit. Security has been tightened across the Line of Control, with reports stating that the ISI has moved several terrorists to forward areas. Information about the same was picked up by the Indian agencies after it was learnt that several launch pads had come up near the Line of Control. J&K: Civilian Shot Dead By Terrorists in Anantnag The IB report said that nearly 10 to 20 terrorists are awaiting orders from their handlers to infiltrate and they were at the Neelam Valley, Jhelum Valley and the leaf of Valley along the Line of Control. Vigil has been upped along the border and a close watch is being kept at all times, an official tells OneIndia. The source also said that the Army and ISI would look to cause trouble in Jammu and Kashmir in a bid to shift focus from the ongoing problems in Pakistan. There is not just a political tussle on in Pakistan, but the country also faces a severe economic crisis. The country is also facing a major problem of terrorism apart from people hitting the streets and wrecking havoc in the aftermath of Imran Khan's arrest. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 11:52 [IST] Go First has a lengthy history of non-payment: Pratt & Whitney As people rush to leave violence-hit Manipur, one-way air ticket now costs Rs 20,000 First-time Flyer Smokes Beedi Mid-Air on Akasa Air Flight, Handed Over To Cops In Bengaluru Passenger On Air India Flight Verbally Abuses Crew Members, Handed Over To Security Personnel Go First Extends Flight Cancellations Till June 4 India oi-PTI As uncertainties continue over its future course, crisis-hit Go First on Tuesday announced extending cancellation of flights till June 4. Go First stopped flying on May 3 and the latest announcement means that the budget carrier will remain grounded for one month. This is the eighth time that the carrier has extended the cancellation of flights since the first announcement was made on May 2 when the services were cancelled for three days till May 5. ''We regret to inform that due to operational reasons, Go First flights scheduled till 04th June 2023 have been cancelled,'' the airline said in a tweet. According to the tweet, a full refund will be issued to the original mode of payment shortly. ''As you are aware, the company has filed an application for immediate resolution and revival of operations. Go First Offering Extra Rs 1 lakh Per Month To Retain Its Pilots ''We will be able to resume bookings shortly,'' it added. The carrier is undergoing insolvency resolution process and last week, aviation regulator DGCA asked it to submit a revival plan within 30 days. On Monday, senior executives of the airline held discussions with senior DGCA officials on the revival plan. The budget carrier, filed a petition for voluntary insolvency resolution proceedings on May 2, citing its inability to carry out operations due to the non-delivery of engines by the US engine maker Pratt & Whitney. The plea was admitted by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) on May 10. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 8:39 [IST] Govt Committed To Restoring Peace In Manipur: Amit Shah India oi-Prakash KL By Pti On the third day of his ongoing visit to violence-hit Manipur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday the government is committed to restoring peace in Manipur as early as possible and ensuring the return of all displaced people to their homes. Shah also reviewed the security situation during the day with top officials in Imphal and the border town Moreh and directed them to take stern and prompt actions against armed miscreants to prevent violence and recover looted weapons to bring back normalcy at the earliest. The home minister assured the people that the supply of essential items in hill areas and helicopter services for emergency needs in Churachandpur, Moreh and Kangpokpi will be ensured. "Visited a relief camp in Kangpokpi and met the Kuki community members there. We are committed to restoring peace in Manipur as early as possible and ensuring their return to their homes," he tweeted. In Imphal, Shah visited a relief camp where the members of the Meitei community are residing and conveyed the government's resolve to bring Manipur back on the path of peace and harmony once again and ensure the return of people to their homes at the earliest. At Kangpokpi, he convened a meeting with civil society organisations who said they are keen to actively participate with the government in reviving harmony among communities in Manipur. Earlier in the day, the home minister visited Moreh, located along the border with Myanmar, and held a review meeting there to take stock of the security situation in the state. He also met a delegation of the Kuki community and a team representing others communities in Moreh and they expressed strong support for the government's initiatives to restore normalcy. "On the third day of his visit to Manipur, the union home visited Moreh and Kangpokpi and had wide-ranging discussions with civil society organisations. "He met the delegation of the hill tribal council, Kuki Students Organisation, Kuki Chiefs Association, Tamil Sangam, Gorkha Samaj and Manipuri Muslim council in Moreh. The delegates expressed strong support for the government's initiatives to restore normalcy in the state," the home ministry said in a statement. In Kangpokpi, Shah met delegations of civil society organisations such as the Committee on Tribal Unity, Kuki Inpi Manipur, Kuki Student organisation, Thadou Inpi and prominent personalities and intellectuals He assured that the supply of essential items in hill areas and helicopter services for emergency needs in Churachandpur, Moreh and Kangpokpi will be ensured. Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh appealed to people to surrender weapons looted from security forces and warned of legal action against anyone found to be in unauthorised and illegal possession of arms and ammunition. In a signed statement, the chief minister also appealed to all concerned in Manipur not to block roads or hinder the free movement of security personnel and relief material. Such roadblocks were making it extremely difficult for security and police personnel to respond to attacks by armed groups on time, Singh said. The home minister is on a four-day visit to Manipur and making efforts to restore peace to the state. On Tuesday, the Meitei and Kuki groups expressed commitment to peace and assured that they would work for restoring normalcy in the trouble-torn state. Shah also held a security review meeting with senior officials of the Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Army in Imphal on Tuesday. He had said peace and prosperity of Manipur are the government's top priority and instructed them to strictly deal with any activities that disturb peace. This is the first time the home minister is visiting the northeastern state since the ethnic clashes began in Manipur on May 3. The state witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes and firing between militants and security forces on Sunday, after a relative lull for over a fortnight. The death toll from clashes has gone up to 80, officials said. The ethnic violence first broke out after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts on May 3 to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The violence was preceded by tension over the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land, which had led to a series of smaller agitations. Karnataka Hijab row: SC to set up bench to hear plea of Muslim girls for nod to take exam in headscarf Hijab Row In MP School, Probe Ordered India oi-Prakash KL The BJP government in Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday ordered a probe after a controversy broke out over a poster in which girls including Hindu girls were seen wearing headscarves that looked like hijab. State home minister Narottam Mishra said that the issue was first investigated by the district education officer. "No complaint was received in this regard. In view of the seriousness of the issue, the superintendent of police has been instructed to thoroughly investigate it," he said. On the other hand, Hindu groups held a protest at the district collector's office and submitted a memorandum demanding cancellation of the school's registration. They alleged that the school is forcing Hindu girl students to wear a hijab. However, Damoh Collector Mayank Agrawal said a probe was conducted earlier about the allegation of religious conversion but it was not found to be true. He also clarified that the allegation had no substance. A team comprising the tehsildar, district education officer and police officials is being formed to probe the matter, the collector said later following the home minister's instructions. Meanwhile, school owner Mustaq Khan said that the uniform included the headscarf and nobody was forced to wear it. National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) chairman Priyank Kanoonago said in a tweet that a complaint has been received about a school in Madhya Pradesh's Damoh district "forcing Hindu and other non-Muslim girls to wear burqas and hijab" in the name of uniform. Priyank Kanoonago said that Cognisance is being taken and instructions are being sent to Damoh collector and superintendent of police for necessary action. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 22:50 [IST] I will not compromise on the issue of corruption: Sachin Pilot India oi-Prakash KL Congress leader Sachin Pilot has once again said that he will not compromise on the issue of corruption. "It is not possible for me to make any kind of compromise on corruption and with the future of the youth. I made a promise to the youth in my meeting in Jaipur on May 15 and what I had said at that time, I have put in front of the party leaders in Delhi and now everything is in the notice of the top leaders of the party," ANI quoted Pilot as saying. He claimed that a probe should be carried out to examine the corruption of the previous BJP government led by Vasundhara Raje. "The corruption and loot that took place during the tenure of the previous Vasundhara government should be effectively investigated, while the youth who were wronged should also get justice. Radical changes should be brought in RPSC also. I am waiting for the state government to take action on all these," he said. He then stated that he has put forward the grievances of the youth before the top Congress leaders in Delhi as the party has claimed that it was against corruption. "Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has also reiterated many times that our party is against corruption and works on the policy of zero tolerance, as well as our party will not tolerate any atrocities against the youth So there is nothing wrong in what I said," he said. A few days ago, the central leadership from Congress summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot for separate meetings with party president Mallikarjun Kharge as the tussle between the two Rajasthan leaders intensified. "We have decided to fight elections unitedly. Definitely, we will win the elections in Rajasthan. Both Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot have unanimously agreed with the proposal," Congress leader KC Venugopal said after the meeting. Gehlot and Pilot have been engaged in a power tussle since the Congress formed government in the state in 2018. In 2020, Pilot led a failed revolt against the Gehlot government after which he was removed from the posts of party's state unit president and deputy chief minister. Pilot had also earlier embarrassed the party by launching a 5-day Jan Sangharsh Yatra' to protest against the inaction of the Rajasthan government in the alleged corruption cases of the BJP government. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 20:24 [IST] In PFI Phulwari Sharif Case, NIA Raids 25 Locations In Kerala, Karnataka, Bihar India oi-Vicky Nanjappa The National Investigation Agency conducted raids at 25 locations in Karnataka, Kerala and Bihar in connection with the Phulwari Sharif case, which is linked to the Popular Front of India. The case on hand has been ongoing since 2022, when the PFI was banned by an order of the Union Home Ministry. Last month the agency had arrested one person taking the total number to 14. The NIA had unearthed the Bihar module of the PFI, following which seven a retired Jharkhand police officer had been arrested. The agency learnt that the accused persons in a bid to undertake anti-national activities had received funds in the form of cryptocurrency from a foreign organisation. The NIA had also carried out searches in the Jamia Niswa Madrasa located in Purvi Champaran in Bihar and arrested a teacher identified as Asghar Ali. The case was registered under the provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Following 13 Raids In Madhya Pradesh, NIA Nets 3 Islamic State Operatives In the raids that were conducted by the agencies several objectionable material had been recovered. One such document recovered was titled Vision 2047 India. The document spoke about ways to launch armed attacks on the Indian state with the help of nations such as Turkey. It also spoke about establishing Islamic rule by the year 2047. In September 2022, along with the PFI, the government had also banned its affiliates, Rehab India Foundation (RIF). Campus Front of India (CFI), All India Imams Council (AIIC), National Confederation of Human Rights Organization (NCHRO), National Women's Front, Junior Front, Empower India Foundation and Rehab Foundation, Kerala as an "unlawful association." The PFI according to the agencies has been raising and collecting funds from abroad in a well organised manner. It also came to the notice of the NIA that the outfit was raising funds abroad and was getting it transferred to India through clandestine means. Go to HC says Supreme Court as it refuses to entertain plea against 'The Kerala Story' Why no action against them? Kerala HC pulls up govt on Tanur boat accident Kerala HC Says Education Loan Cant Be Rejected For Low CIBIL Score Of Student India oi-Vicky Nanjappa The Kerala High Court has ruled that an education loan cannot be rejected on the ground of a low CIBIL score. JusticeP B Kunhikrishan also cautioned banks to adopt a humanitarian approach while considering applications for education loans. The student in this case had availed two loans, of which one was overdue for Rs 16,667, and the other loans was written off by the bank. The CIBIL score of the petitioner was low due to this reason. It was submitted by the petitioner that unless the amount was received immediately the student would be in trouble. On the other hand, the counsels for the respondents argued that granting an interim order intros case, would be against the scheme framed by the Indian Banks Association as directed by the Reserve Bank of India. In PFI Phulwari Sharif Case, NIA Raids 25 Locations In Kerala, Karnataka, Bihar "Students are the nation builders of tomorrow. They have to lead this country in future. Simply because, there is low CIBIL score to a student, who is an applicant for Education loan, I am of the considered opinion that, Education loan application ought not have been rejected by Bank," the court said. "Here is a case, where the petitioner obtained a job offer too. Banks may be hyper technical, but a court of law can not ignore the ground realities," the Court observed, while directing the respondents to disburse the amount of Rs.4,07,200/- to the College of the petitioner forthwith," the court said. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 10:48 [IST] Cayuga Community College and partners will showcase career potential in the manufacturing industry during an Advanced Manufacturing Expo for Families from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 7. The event will take place at the Advanced Manufacturing Institute on the college's Auburn campus at 197 Franklin St. Students will learn about training opportunities and degree programs at Cayuga, tour the manufacturing institute and connect with industry experts and employers like Avstar Fuel Systems, Nucor, ITT Goulds Pumps and more. The manufacturing industry in central New York and our surrounding regions has experienced a resurgence over the past several years with innovative ideas and products. The foundation for their success is a highly skilled, expertly trained workforce, and thats where Cayuga and our partners in the education community come in, said Dr. Keiko Kimura, the college's vice president of workforce development and partnerships, in a news release. This expo will show students and their families the career possibilities in advanced manufacturing, and the training thats available at Cayuga to connect students to those careers. The event is open to local students in grades six and older, and their families. For more information, or to RSVP, call (315) 294-8841. Man Arrested In Pune For Posing As PMO Official India oi-Vicky Nanjappa The Crime Branch of the Pune Police has arrested a man who posed as an Indian Administrative (IAS) officer posted with the Prime Minister's Office. The 54-year old impersonator was caught after he attended a programme organised by a charitable trust in Aundh earlier this week. The arrested man has been identified as Vasudev Nivrutti Tayde. He had posed as Dr Vinay Deo posted as a Deputy Secretary with PMO and claimed he was involved in work related to intelligence. Pune city police officers said that the Borderless World Foundation had organised a function where an ambulance was to be sent to Jammu and Kashmir as part of a charitable initiative. The man is said to have introduced himself as an IAS officer working in the PMO, but one of the trustees noticed some discrepancies in his claims. After a team of from Unit 1 of the Crime Branch, launched a probe, they located the man and detained him for questioning. Tayde is a resident of Talegaon Dabhade. 22-year-old duped of over Rs 7 lakh while using dating site He is sid to have made multiple attempts at clearing the Union Public Service Commission exam in the past. He has been involved in a similar offence in 2000. He had left Dhule after being booked for an offence of impersonation. At that time, he had impersonated as a government official. Tayde has been booked under the Indian Penal Code sections pertaining to cheating and impersonation. A probe into the matter is underway. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 15:30 [IST] What Transpired At The Closed Door Meetings Held By Amit Shah In Manipur Manipur Violence: Shah Visits Moreh On Myanmar Border, Reviews Security Measures India oi-Madhuri Adnal Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the border town of Moreh in Manipur's Tengnoupal district on Wednesday. This visit aims to involve discussions with Kuki civil society groups and a comprehensive review of the existing security measures, as reported by Army sources. After arriving in Imphal on Monday night, Shah will continue his visit to Kangpokpi district in the afternoon, where he will engage with various groups in the region, according to the sources. Meanwhile, incidents of gunfight between militants and security forces were reported from Sugnu in Kakching district overnight, officials said. Took stock of the security situation with senior officials in Moreh (Manipur). pic.twitter.com/8bKRUA5ks1 Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 31, 2023 ''Firing also took place at Sagolmang in Imphal East where a civilian was injured in an attack by militants,'' they said. As part of his mission to broker a lasting peace in the troubled state, Shah met a cross-section of Kuki and Meitei leaders on Tuesday, besides top security officers to seek a solution to the spate of ethnic clashes that have rocked the state. He also held an all-party meeting in the evening. What Transpired At The Closed Door Meetings Held By Amit Shah In Manipur Shah is accompanied by Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Director of the Intelligence Bureau Tapan Kumar Deka on the trip. Ethnic clashes broke out in the state nearly a month ago after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. After a relative lull for over a fortnight, the state witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes, and gunfight between militants and security forces on Sunday. So far, over 80 people have been killed in the violence, according to officials. Biggest Treachery With The Poor: PM Modi On Cong's 'Guarantees' India oi-Prakash KL Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday took on Congress over 'guarantee habit', saying it is the grand old party's biggest treachery with the poor. The PM said that Congress has a new formula of guarantees, which will leave the country "bankrupt." "This 'guarantee habit' of Congress is not new, it is old. 50 years back, Congress gave the 'garibi hatao' guarantee to the country. This is Congress party's biggest treachery with the poor. Congress' strategy has been to trick the poor. People of Rajasthan have suffered due to this," the Prime Minister said in a rally in Ajmer in Rajasthan. This is the first major event in a month-long outreach campaign by the BJP to mark its nine years in power at the Centre. The Congress had emerged victorious in the recently-held assembly polls in Karnataka after promising 'five guarantees' to the public. "It has been a policy of the Congress to mislead the poor and keep them deprived. The people of Rajasthan have also suffered a lot due to this...And what has Rajasthan got? A government where MLAs, CM (Chief Minister) and ministers fight among themselves," NDTV quoted him as saying at the event. Talking about completing nine years in office, PM Modi said, "Before coming to Ajmer, I had the opportunity to visit Pushkar. In our scriptures, Lord Brahma has been called the creator of the universe. With Lord Brahma's blessings, an era of new creation is going on in India. BJP-led NDA Govt in the Centre has completed 9 years. These 9 years have been dedicated to service to citizens, good governance and welfare of the poor," Rajasthan, where the ruling Congress is caught in a leadership tussle between Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his former deputy Sachin Pilot, goes to the polls this year-end. The Prime Minister travelled by helicopter from Kishangarh airport to the holy town of Pushkar, where he offered prayers at the Brahma temple and visited the ghats. Rajasthan: PM Modi Performs 'Puja At Brahma Temple In Pushkar The Prime Minister then attacked Congress over corruption. "A lot of people ask these days - from where does Modi get the money for the development works that are going on in the country...There was never any shortage of money in the country for development works...But during its rule, Congress Govt developed a blood-sucking corrupt system that ate & hollowed the development of the country...In last 9 years, development of the country by BJP Govt became possible because BJP is closing the path of loot by Congress," he said. Know Your Minister: A Look At 24 MLAs Sworn-In To Karnataka Cabinet Today Is A Turmoil Brewing In Karnataka? What The List Of Ministers Tells Us Poll Strategist Sunil Kanugolu Appointed CM Siddaramaiah's Advisor India oi-Prakash KL Sunil Kanugolu, the man who shaped Congress' poll strategy in recently-held Karnataka Assembly polls, has been reportedly appointed as the chief advisor to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, with the rank of a Cabinet minister. However, it is still unclear on the nature of his work as the Karnataka CM's advisor, according to a report in Deccan Herald. Kanugolu hails from Ballari. A Telugite, who has his roots in Karnataka and was brought up in Chennai. "He has a personality that is calm but firm. He is low-profile, attention-hating, and because he always comes armed with data from field surveys, he cannot be bulldozed, and politicians find a lot of value in him in their everyday political work," NDTV quoted a Congress insider as saying about the poll strategist. Kanugolu is credited for his innovative poll campaigns that include the 'PayCM' campaign against the previous BJP government. This helped Congress to set a narrative around corruption. "But what the campaign did was give our party a lot of ammunition to attack the government and connect with people. It gave us the upper hand over the BJP, which kept treating it like a gimmick," a person told the TV channel. The Congress registered a resounding victory, winning 135 seats in the 224-member Assembly. It is interesting to note that he had worked for the BJP in the past as well. In the 2018 Karnataka Assembly polls, he had worked with the saffron party. Kanugolu had earlier worked with poll strategist, Prashant Kishor and was instrumental in the election campaign by Narendra Modi in 2014. He has also served as the head of the BJP's Association of Billion Minds. He also played a key role in the BJP's election campaign in Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat and Karnataka. In all these states the BJP had emerged victorious. He also has the credit of planning the Bharat Jodo Yatra, led by Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. The poll strategist had worked with the DMK and Siromani Akali Dal in the past. Meanwhile, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Priyank Kharge will once again be in-charge of IT and BT department along with the existing portfolio, while Large & Medium Industries Minister M B Patil has been given the additional charge of Infrastructure Development. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 23:20 [IST] Probe Into Naxal Boss By NIA Leads To Massive Seizure Of Arms and Ammunition India oi-Vicky Nanjappa The arrest of Dinesh Gope, a naxal supremo was an important breakthrough for the National Investigation Agency. Following the leads given by Gope, the NIA and Jharkhand police have managed to seize a large number of explosives, arms and ammunition from the state over the past two days. Gope was a top operative of the naxal front, People's Liberation Army. The seizures were made from Khunti, Simdega and Gum districts based on the disclosures made by Gope, who is the self-styled chief of the PLFI. He was arrested by the NIA on May 21. Gope has been in NIA custody for the past day days and had earlier too led the agency to seize a huge cache of arms and ammunition in the forest area. He has led the NIA to seize about 62 kilograms of gelatin and 732 rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition from the Garai area of Kunti. On Tuesday the NIA said that two IEDs were also seized from the forest of Simdega. From Gumla, the agency seized one pisto, 11 rounds of ammunition and 30 rounds of .303 ammunition. In PFI Phulwari Sharif Case, NIA Raids 25 Locations In Kerala, Karnataka, Bihar This was the third such surprise by the NIA in less than a week. On May 26 a huge cache of ammunition was seized as a result of the sustained investigations, the NIA said. All the seizures took place following the arrest and subsequent interrogation of Gope. Gope has been a fugitive for 20 years and wanted in 102 cases. "More than 102 criminal cases are registered against Gope in Jharkhand, Bihar and Odisha. Most of these cases relate to murder, abduction, threat, extortion, and raising funds for the PLFI, a militant Maoist outfit formed in 2007 in Jharkhand and also a splinter group of the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist). The NIA had also declared a reward of Rs 5 lakhs for leads on Gope, in addition to the reward of Rs 25 lakh announced by the Jharkhand government. He had been absconding for almost two decades," an NIA statement by the NIA read. Nitish Kumar to expand his cabinet today; 16 ministers from RJD, 11 from JD(U) to be inducted Punjab Cabinet Expansion: Balkar Singh, Gurmeet Singh Khudian Take Oath Today India oi-Madhuri Adnal Gurmeet Singh Khudian and Balkar Singh, both members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), were officially sworn-in as new ministers in Punjab on Wednesday as part of the cabinet expansion under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The oath-taking ceremony took place at the Raj Bhavan, where Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit administered the oath of office and secrecy to the newly appointed ministers. Gurmeet Singh Khudian, aged 60, represents the Lambi constituency in Muktsar as a legislator. He gained prominence as the giant slayer during the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections when he defeated the five-time chief minister Parkash Singh Badal from his own stronghold by a significant margin of 11,396 votes. Delhi, Punjab Units Caution Congress Against Kejriwal Outreach Balkar Singh, also 60 years old, is an MLA from the Kartarpur reserved seat in Jalandhar. Prior to joining the AAP in 2021, Singh served as a police officer in Punjab. This is his first term as a legislator. #WATCH | Balkar Singh and Gurmeet Singh Khudian took oath as Punjab Ministers today, in Chandigarh. pic.twitter.com/4O70tNeCUN ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 This marks the third expansion of the cabinet under the 14-month-old Mann-led government in Punjab. The first cabinet expansion took place in July 2022, when five party legislators were inducted. In January of this year, senior AAP leader and Patiala Rural MLA Dr. Balbir Singh was sworn-in as a cabinet minister following the resignation of Fauja Singh Sarari. The cabinet expansion reflects the AAP government's efforts to strengthen its administration and bring in new voices to contribute to the development and governance of Punjab. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 12:03 [IST] With Eye On 2024 Polls, PM Modi Holds Meeting With CMs Of BJP-Ruled States Inauguration Of New Parliament Building And What An Opportunity The Opposition Missed Filled With Humility And Gratitude; Will Keep Working Harder: PM Modi On Govt Completing 9 Years SCO Summit Under Indias Chairmanship On July 4; PM Modi To Chair The Meet Rajasthan: PM Modi Performs Puja At Brahma Temple In Pushkar India oi-Madhuri Adnal Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday offered prayers at the Brahma temple in holy town of Pushkar and visited the ghats. Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore said Modi reached the holy town in a helicopter after landing at the Kishangarh airport. The prime minister will travel to Kayad Vishram Sthali on Jaipur Road in a helicopter for his public rally. Union ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal and Kailash Chaudhary, and other BJP leaders from Rajasthan are expected to attend the meeting. #WATCH | PM Modi offers prayers at Brahma temple in Rajasthan's Pushkar pic.twitter.com/zG3FVQjwmA ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 PM Modi will deliver a speech at a rally in Ajmer, marking the first major event in the state commemorating the BJP government's nine-year tenure at the Centre. With the completion of nine years in governance, the BJP has initiated a month-long extensive outreach campaign. The upcoming state elections, where the Congress party currently holds power, add further significance to this event. However, the grand old party finds itself entangled in a leadership struggle between Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his former deputy Sachin Pilot. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 16:31 [IST] No Heatwave In Delhi For Next Five Days: IMD Southwest Monsoon Set To Advance Further In Next 3-4 Days After Stalling For 12 days India oi-Madhuri Adnal The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted the southwest monsoon to advance into certain areas of the Bay of Bengal, the Maldives, and the Comorin regions in the next three to four days. Additionally, a fresh western disturbance is expected to move across northwest India, persisting until Thursday, according to the weather bureau. As a result of this system, Himachal Pradesh is likely to experience light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds, and the possibility of hailstorms on Wednesday and Thursday. Hailstorms are also expected in Uttarakhand until Friday. Rajasthan may witness thundersqualls, while Jammu and Kashmir could experience heavy rainfall today. Within the next 24 hours, several parts of Delhi, including east Delhi, New Delhi, north Delhi, northeast Delhi, south Delhi, and southwest Delhi, are anticipated to witness thundershowers accompanied by strong winds. In Punjab and various areas of Haryana, similar weather conditions are expected, including thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph on Wednesday and Thursday. Northern Haryana, in particular, may face similar climate conditions on Wednesday. Current district & station Nowcast warnings at 1615 IST today. For details kindly visit:https://t.co/o69UesXdXbhttps://t.co/Tx4GDKCKv4 If you observe any weather, kindly report it at:https://t.co/5Mp3RJYA2y pic.twitter.com/O3RL4VPO71 India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) May 31, 2023 Taking these forecasts into consideration, IMD's crop advisory unit, Agromet, has issued guidelines to farmers in Haryana and Punjab. The advisory recommends completing the sowing of paddy nursery within the recommended periods and using suggested varieties such as PR121 to PR131 and HKR 47. Cotton farmers have been advised to eradicate weeds to prevent the spread of whitefly in cotton fields. Cane farmers are encouraged to apply fertilizers and irrigation as needed, based on weather conditions over the next four days. Paddy, cotton, and sugarcane are the main crops of the kharif season, cultivated in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana. The kharif season traditionally begins with the onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala on June 1 and extends from June to October. Furthermore, the western disturbance is expected to bring light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds to Kerala and Lakshadweep over the next five days. Heavy rainfall is anticipated in Tamil Nadu and certain parts of Karnataka from Wednesday to Sunday, as observed by IMD. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 17:31 [IST] What Transpired At The Closed Door Meetings Held By Amit Shah In Manipur India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Five decisions have come out of the meeting by Union Home Minister Amit Shah with the Cabinet ministers of Manipur. The meetings comes in the wake of large-spread ethnic violence that has engulfed the state in the past couple of days. At the meeting, it was decided that steps would be taken to restore normalcy. Shah also spoke about a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation during a meeting with the Kuki tribal leaders. At the meeting it was also decided to take steps to improve the law and order situation, expedite relief measures and provide compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the families of the people who died in the clashes. Further, it was assured that a job to one family member and the re-opening of BSNL telephone lines to dispel rumours was also assured, a source tells OneIndia. The Home Minister also directed officials to deal strictly with activities that are disturbing peace. Shah has held nearly 9 meetings since he landed in Imphal. Shah would be present in Manipur on Wednesday too, before he flies to Delhi on Thursday. Besides Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, Shah also met with the Governor of the State. Govt Announces Compensation Package For Those Killed In Manipur Clashes On Tuesday, he chaired an all-party meeting and appealed to the political leaders to help bring back normalcy in the state. He also said that the Centre was doing all it could to bring back peace. "Reviewed the security situation in Manipur in a meeting with senior officials of the Manipur Police, CAPFs and the Indian Army in Imphal. Peace and prosperity of Manipur is our top priority, and instructed them to strictly deal with any activities disturbing the peace," the Home Minister said in a Tweet. While referring to the demand of 10 tribal MLAs, for a separate state for tribals, Shah said that the territorial integrity of Manipur will not be affected at any cost. He appealed to the civil society leaders to take an active role in bringing peace in the state. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 8:13 [IST] Cheetah Revival Project Officials To Be Sent On Study Tours To Namibia and SA Wildlife Experts Reach Kuno To Monitor Project Cheetah India oi-Deepika S A team of the newly constituted steering committee has reached Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh to monitor the progress of the government's ambitious 'Cheetah Project'. This comes in the wake of the death of three adult cheetahs and three cubs in the last two months due to various reasons. The high-level committee has been set up to review, progress, monitor, and (give) advice on the cheetah introduction to the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department and the NTCA. It will provide suggestions on the opening of the cheetah habitat for eco-tourism and on regulations in this regard. The panel will be in force for two years and will hold at least one meeting every month. It will also provide suggestions on community interface and for their involvement in project activities. 6 Deaths In A Row Pose A Major Challenge To India's 'Project Cheetah' Experts believe that the reintroduction project is going to see even higher mortality in the next few months when cheetahs try to establish territories and come face to face with leopards and tigers at the Kuno National Park. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has expressed concerns over the lack of space and logistical support at Kuno Park and has suggested shifting cheetahs to other sanctuaries. Under the ambitious reintroduction programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the first batch cheetahs from Namibia into a quarantine enclosure at Kuno 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. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 16:44 [IST] Growing up in Auburn, I was very unaware of the other options that exist outside of the public school system for young men and young women. Of course, with our recent bout with COVID-19 and the online learning that sprang up, more options became available. One option that is particularly great for Auburn is Tyburn Academy. If you didnt know, Tyburn Academy is a private school located on Clymer Street, just down the road from Seward Elementary School. Though founded and rooted in the Catholic tradition, Tyburn offers the opportunity for all people to come and join our student body to learn and earn a regents diploma as well as earn some college credits in the process. We also have the same connection with BOCES that Auburn High School has, and can help facilitate learning for students with IEPs and 504s. Naturally, there is a cost to attend private school, but our cost is manageable and there are scholarships available. With all of our learning subjects such as science, math, English/language arts and history ongoing efforts to continually improve our school and curriculum are made to better serve the highest ideals and values that we hold as a private Catholic Institution. In particular, our ELA program is evolving into something more structured around the classics, such as Virgil, Shakespeare, Cervantes ("Don Quixote"), Dante and Dickens. Our program also has students reading introductory books for the grade that they will be moving into. As summer reading is encouraged, we also feel that it is important to have the goal and purpose to prepare students for the subject matter they will be engaging with in the subsequent year. Our summer reading books for students include: "The Chronicles of Narnia" by C.S. Lewis, "The Once and Future King" by T.H. White, "The Trojan War" by Olivia Coolidge, "An Introduction to Shakespeare" by Marchette Chute, "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain and "Endurance" by Alfred Hansen. Our ELA program offers a unique union between classical education and New York state standards. What exactly does that mean? In terms of classical education, Tyburn focuses on the virtues often spoken of and written of throughout history, in all cultures. These virtues and ideals are things like: humility, charity, chastity, gratitude, temperance, patience and diligence, or, in a word, wisdom." Traditional values and virtues that have lasted the tests of all ranges and dynamics of humanity, despite what our current trends in American culture would have us believe. Our English curriculum seeks to maintain the higher ideals of the created order so our students can better themselves as individuals, and better their respective communities. In our ELA program, we will be working through understanding literary analysis, its various forms, and engaging with secondary sources to create essays and papers that articulate the unique perspective of each student. The middle school level will work primarily with grammar, grammar rules, and learning to write various types of paragraphs, essays and their own stories. Their literature will focus on forming the imagination via myths, legends, tall tales and fairy tales while the high school will begin to think more substantively about life values, their character, the type of life they want to live, and the kind of people they want to become. Speaking to New York state standards, we follow the outlines given by the New York State Education Department and work those standards into our curriculum. Given that we are a private institution, we can better fit those standards into a curriculum that makes sense as it builds toward preparing students for life and/or college. If you are looking for an alternative to public school, I would recommend Tyburn Academy. Speaking as a non-Catholic English teacher, I feel that Tyburn is ready for even greater things. We would love for more of our community to be part of our ongoing growth and development into the best of what we can be as a school. Call us at (315) 252-2937 to tour our school and speak with our representatives. Wed love for your child or grandchild to be who God meant for you to be and you will set the world on fire! St. Catherine of Sienna UWW Condemns Detention Of Wrestlers, Threatens To Ban WFI If Polls Not Held On Time 'Will Hang Myself If A Single Allegation Proven': Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh India oi-Prakash KL Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) Chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on Wednesday said that he would hang himself if the sexual harassment allegation is proven against him. "If a single allegation against me is proven, I will hang myself," ANI quoted the WFI chief as saying at a public rally in UP's Barabanki. His comments come a day after the wrestlers reached Haridwar to immerse their medals in the river Ganga before they were stopped by farmer leader Naresh Tikait. The grapplers then issued a five-day ultimatum to the authorities to act against the WFI chief. Taking a jibe at the grapplers' plans to immerse their medals, Singh said, "It's been four months and they want me to be hanged. The government is not hanging me that's why they gathered at Haridwar on Tuesday and threatened to immerse their medals in the Ganga. This will not bring the sentence that they want for me, it is all emotional drama," He then urged the wrestlers to produce evidence in court and he was willing to accept any punishment. The WFI chief further said that the Delhi Police is investigating the case and they would arrest if they found any truth to the charges. However, the sources from the police department told ANI that there was no supportive evidence to arrest the WFI president. However, they will be filing the final report in 15 days. "Within 15 days we will be filing our report in the court. It could be in the form of a charge sheet or final report," they said. The second round of protests by the wrestlers started on April 23 as seven women players levelled sexual harassment allegations against him. The country's top grapplers including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik are demanding the arrest of the BJP MP. So far, two FIRs have been filed against the WFI chief. While the first FIR related to allegations by a minor wrestler and was registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the second was related to outraging modesty. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 18:01 [IST] Why Pakistan Will Continue To Boil And There Is No Solution Around The Corner Imran Khan Will Be Tried In Military Court, Says Pakistan Minister International oi-PTI Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah on Tuesday said that Imran Khan will be tried in a military court as the former prime minister was the ''architect'' of the May 9 incidents in which military and state installations were attacked by his party workers following his arrest in a corruption case. Appearing on a Dawn News show, Sanaullah also accused the 70-year-old chief of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party of personally carrying out the planning of the attacks on military installations before his arrest on the day. There was evidence to prove the claim as well, the minister added. When asked if Khan would be tried in the military court, he said: ''Absolutely, why shouldn't it? The programme that he made to target the military installations and then had it executed, in my understanding it absolutely is a case of a military court.'' The minister accused Khan of personally orchestrating the May 9 riots. Pakistan's Ruling Coalition Turns Down Imran Khans Talks Offer ''His supporters chanted a slogan that 'Imran Khan is our red line', and the planning and preparation were done on Imran Khan's initiative and instigation. He carried it all out. He is the architect of all this discord,'' he said. "(The evidence) is documented, it is in tweets and his messages,'' he added. When asked how Khan was able to communicate with his party leaders even from jail, the minister replied: "All this (planning) was decided before he went (to jail) that 'who will do what and where. And when he is arrested, what would be the strategy and duties'. All of this was decided." The minister's remarks come a day after Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that there was no decision yet on Khan's trial under the stringent Army Act. He, however, said that he could not "rule out" such a possibility. ''I don't rule out the possibility that he was the planner and knew everything (about May 9)," Asif said. Khan has denied his involvement in the violence, saying he was in the jail when the mayhem took place. He has that the establishment plans to keep him in jail for 10 years in a sedition case. On May 9, violent protests erupted after the arrest of Khan by paramilitary Rangers in Islamabad. His party workers vandalised over 20 military installations and government buildings, including the Lahore Corps Commander House, Mianwali airbase and the ISI building in Faisalabad. The Army headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi was also attacked by the mob for the first time. Khan was later released on bail. The violence elicited a strong reaction from the government and military with vows of taking action against the culprits, leading to an ongoing crackdown against those involved. Law enforcement agencies have arrested over 10,000 workers of Khan's Pakistan party across Pakistan, 4,000 of them from Punjab. Police put the death toll in violent clashes to 10 while Khan's party claims 40 of its workers lost their lives in the firing by security personnel. The Punjab Police had previously claimed, citing a geo-fencing report, that Khan and his close aides allegedly coordinated efforts to storm the residence of the Lahore Corps Commander and other buildings. Punjab Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar, when contacted by Dawn, had confirmed the geo-fencing record and the alleged use of Khan's residence in Lahore for planning the attack on the Jinnah House. Pakistan Protests Against G20 Participants For Attending Srinagar Event A senior officer, requesting anonymity, had told the newspaper that many important revelations had come from the analysis of the geo-fencing record: it was detected that 154 calls were allegedly made by Khan to party leaders and rioters to provoke them to attack. He had said the PTI chairman was the "prime suspect" who allegedly planned the attack on the house of the corps commander. The officer had said call records showed all phone calls were made on May 8 and May 9 - the day of Khan's arrest - to prepare workers to attack the building. On Friday, Sanaullah said that 33 suspects, 19 in Punjab and 14 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, were handed over to the military. On Monday, an anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi directed the superintendent of the Adiala Jail to hand over eight suspects to the military for trial. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 8:34 [IST] Why US Is Keen On Making India Part of NATO Plus Bloc India Extends Its $1-Bn Credit Line To Sri Lanka By Another Year International oi-Sanjeev Nayak India has extended its $1 billion credit line to Sri Lanka for another year. An agreement was signed between the State Bank of India (SBI) and the Sri Lankan government for the credit facility in March last year, but a major portion of it is still lying unutilised. The credit line, part of about $4-billion emergency assistance extended by India during the peak of Sri Lanka's financial crisis early last year, was scheduled to end in March. The extension will help the beleaguered island nation, hit by an unprecedented economic crisis, procure food, medicine and other essential items. In a tweet on Tuesday, the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka said, "India reaffirms its commitment to the people of Sri Lanka. The Amendment Agreement signed in presence of Hon.Minister @ShehanSema today will enable Sri Lanka to use the $1 billion Indian credit facility for the procurement of medicine, food, and other essentials for one more year." India extended multi-pronged assistance to Sri Lanka last year, through multiple credit lines and currency support, in line with its 'Neighbourhood First' policy. India's continued support to Sri Lanka is a testament to "our abiding commitment to stand with the government and the people of Sri Lanka towards early economic stabilisation and recovery," the High Commission added. IMF approves USD 3 billion in financial assistance for Sri Lanka Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has decided to import 10 lakh eggs daily from five chicken farms in India to meet its growing market demand. Asiri Valisundara, chairman of country's top importing agency State Trading Corporation (STC) said that 2 crore eggs were imported from India, half of which have been released to the market. The eggs were being imported from two chicken farms in India but the Animal Production Department has additionally approved the purchases from three other Indian farms on the basis of a report of three officials who visited the poultry farms, Valisundara informed, adding that the imported eggs would be released to bakeries, biscuit manufacturers, catering services and restaurants at a price of SLR 35 each. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 15:57 [IST] Entrepreneur Shivam Shukla highlights the key areas to grow in the hospitality sector Partner Content oi-Oneindia English Desk In the field of hospitality, entrepreneurs understand how to multitask effectively. Whether it is managing a hectic work environment or dealing with complex commitments, it is imperative to be a master of many trades in the hotel segment. Lately, hoteliers and entrepreneurs are bringing different ways to attract their patrons. One such multi-talented name is Shivam Shukla who has set a bar high in the industry. From an early age, Shivam was clear about his goal and vision. In a time when competition became fierce, the entrepreneur proved his mettle by building a luxury hotel and facility management chain in India. At 21, he entered the hospitality industry by accompanying his father to understand the hotel business better. In his journey of a decade, Shivam Shukla has come a long way. However, in the initial stage, he understood the loopholes that created the slow growth of his businesses. After starting his first restaurant named Shukla's Kitchen in 2014, Shukla worked on improving guests' desires and expectations by offering a unique customer experience. He says, "Many guests prefer to explore an outdoor experience by using amenities in the hotel rather than just relaxing in the room. That's when we shifted our focus on offering innovative guest experiences to our customers." Shivam Shukla is the director of Cutting Edge Hotel Consultant Pvt. Ltd. In 2016, his company took over the operations of Hotel Florence in Raipur. With a dedicated team of employees, the entrepreneur has made a successful mark in the industry. Furthermore, the effective communication skills of his team resulted in scaling the hotel business to newer heights. According to Shivam, it is significant to communicate effectively with guests and patrons. "Listening to your customers, understanding their issues and acknowledging their feedback helped us know where we lacked. Eventually, it helped us in providing top-notch services to our customers", he revealed. Moving ahead in 2017, he started two hotels in Chhattisgarh - Hotel Raj Imperial and Hotel Trinity Grand. Both the hotels attained the 4-star category and were handed over to the owners with the best staff. Not just this, Shivam also owns a club named On The Rocks located in Raipur. Apart from being a prolific businessman, Shivam Shukla is also a high-end influencer, and his Instagram feed depicts the best of men's fashion. Interestingly, the pandemic witnessed the hospitality sector incur several losses. Despite the bad phase, the entrepreneur initiated a handful of charitable activities for underprivileged families. Along with his generous donations, Shivam's team came in support of poor people by providing more than 45,000 meals for free during the lockdown in Raipur. Even today, he continues to serve those in need. Looking at his incredible work, Shivam Shukla is undoubtedly an inspiration for budding entrepreneurs and businessmen in the field of hospitality. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 12:27 [IST] Russia has said Moscow was targeted by a Ukrainian drone attack, with minor damage caused to buildings and several people hurt. Advocacy groups say tensions between landlords and tenants are at an all-time high in the wake of a landlord killing two tenants before dying in a shootout with police on May 27. Upworthy 31 May 2023 North Korea confirmed that its effort to launch a military spy satellite into orbit failed, and said it would try again soon,.. 2008-2023 One News Page Ltd. All rights reserved. One News is a registered trademark of One News Page Ltd. Upworthy 31 May 2023 U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) speaks about the country's debt ceiling outside his office at the Capitol. Alex Wong/Getty.. ALBANY On Feb. 9, John Cirando stood before a lectern in the ornate Court of Appeals Hall and pressed his argument: His client, serving a 54-year sentence for rape, should be granted a hearing to consider newly surfaced evidence. Six black-robed judges of the states highest court sat listening; a seventh and final chair was vacant. Justices Rowan Wilson, Jenny Rivera and Shirley Troutman peppered Cirando with questions, as the body's acting chief judge, Anthony Cannataro, presided. Six days later, a major development shook the states legal landscape: Gov. Kathy Hochuls nominee to fill that unoccupied, seventh seat the permanent chief judge position was rejected by the State Senate. The process of picking a chief judge of New York would begin anew. That put Cirando in a seemingly awkward position. The Court of Appeals justices were actively considering whether Cirando's client should gain a new hearing. Simultaneously, Cirando was now tasked with determining whether several of those justices could be elevated. Cirando is one of 12 appointees to the state Commission on Judicial Nomination, a panel that decided in secret whether Wilson, Rivera, Troutman, Cannataro or others could be named chief judge. When there is a vacancy on the Court of Appeals, the commission is tasked with sifting applications, interviewing candidates and producing a list from which the governor may nominate a replacement to the court. Cirandos dual roles are not unique on the panel, nor are they legally improper. Under the state constitution, at least four of the 12 commissioners must be attorneys. The current commission includes six appointees whose law practices include a focus on appellate work. Their selection to the panel makes a degree of sense: Few are more knowledgeable about the quality of New York's appeals judges than appellate attorneys. But commissioners also may argue high-stakes cases before those judges they are charged with vetting. At least four of the current commissioners have argued cases before the Court of Appeals. Still, commissioners rarely recuse themselves from voting on Court of Appeals candidates over potential conflicts of interest, according to people familiar with the process. In fact, commissioners are effectively discouraged from recusing themselves because of a wrinkle in state law. The Court of Appeals, the state's version of the U.S. Supreme Court, issues rulings serving as precedent for the rest of New Yorks court system. The rulings impact the lives of New Yorkers on issues including criminal justice, workers' rights, the environment and the functioning of the state's democratic institutions. Last year, the Court of Appeals found that Erie County social services agencies could not be held liable for allegedly failing to protect a developmentally disabled woman who was raped, tortured and murdered. In another case last year, the court ruled that an employee could not bring a lawsuit alleging he was forced to pay illegal wage kickbacks to his employer. And the court threw out congressional district lines drawn by the State Legislature, a decision that contributed to Republicans winning a narrow majority in the U.S. Congress. A month ago, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, a Democrat, floated the idea of eliminating the Commission on Judicial Nomination through a constitutional amendment. Her idea would allow the governor to pick Court of Appeals nominees directly. Good-government groups, bar associations and former members of the judiciary pushed back, arguing the commission's bipartisan dynamic makes the Court of Appeals less politicized, especially compared to the U.S. Supreme Court, where nominees are chosen directly by the president. The former presiding justice of the state's mid-level appellate court in Manhattan, Rolando Acosta, has called Stewart Cousins' proposal a "frontal attack on the judiciary." John Kaehny, executive director of the government reform group Reinvent Albany, opposes any rush to eliminate the commission. At the same time, there is structural conflict of interest, he said, in commissioners vetting judges while appearing before them as attorneys. Several commissioners practice at firms representing major, corporate clients. Another is counsel for a firm specializing in plaintiff medical malpractice cases, while Cirando has a focus on criminal defense. Some applicants before the commission, meanwhile, are judges who may have records indicating certain leanings on issues. Kaehny said it would be impossible for the commissioners to "compartmentalize their working and professional existence on one hand, with their work as volunteer judge vetters on the other." Secret deliberations The chief judge of the Court of Appeals, Janet DiFiore, unexpectedly retired 10 months ago, setting off a process that drew new scrutiny to the commission. Rowan Wilson, an associate justice, applied to replace DiFiore, but did not make the commission's seven-person list of potential chief judges in November. The reasons were not clear, though court observers speculated liberal justices, including Wilson, were kept off by commission appointees of DiFiore and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo. Out of seven candidates that made the list, Hochul nominated Hector LaSalle, the presiding judge on a mid-level state appellate court in Brooklyn. But at the end of a turbulent confirmation process, LaSalle was rejected by the Democratic-controlled State Senate for allegedly being too conservative. The commission convened again, and this time, did include Wilson on its seven-person list released in March. He was nominated by Hochul and easily confirmed by Senate Democrats. Of seven people first selected in November, only two appeared on the second list in March. Hochul told The News she didnt know why the lists were so different. "You could ask them why they selected others I don't tell them what to do," Hochul said. Under state law, the commission is required to operate in secret. The public has no information how any individual commissioner voted. When the process is complete, the commission issues a letter to the governor, listing the seven chosen, their biographies, the number of applicants and the pool's diversity. That letter is made public. The most recent, in March, also revealed that two candidates making the March list had not been interviewed during the November process indicating they did not apply the first time. That explains, to a degree, why the two lists were so different. In addition, LaSalle understandably did not appear on the second list. Even under the confidentiality restrictions, the report could and should shed more light on the selection process, according to Vincent Bonventre, a professor at Albany Law School and close court watcher. "The report could certainly reveal what the particular qualifications of this individual are, which led the commission to include this individual," he said. 'The most flagrant deals and payoffs For much of New York history, Court of Appeals judges were chosen in statewide elections, contests that by the 1970s had grown acrimonious and expensive. Hugh Carey won election for governor in 1974 and pressed for court reform, leading to a proposed constitutional amendment creating the Commission on Judicial Nomination and "merit-based selection" of judges. In a 1977 editorial, the New York Times wrote that politics would hardly disappear from the selection process, but it would be relieved by sophisticated review and deterred from the most flagrant deals and payoffs. The amendment was overwhelmingly passed by voters that year. One vehement opponent was Republican Assemblyman Charles Henderson, who argued the standard for inclusion on commission lists, that a person be "well qualified" based on their "character, temperament, professional aptitude and experience," was subjective and favored elite insiders. The only black-and-white requirements to be on the Court of Appeals: Holding New York residency, and a decade of membership in the state bar association. Commission rules say diversity should be considered, including race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, community service, nature of legal practice or professional background and geography; diversity has clearly been a factor in recent lists, and the current court does not include a single straight, white male. Of the 12 members of the Commission on Judicial Nomination, four are appointed by the governor and four by the chief judge. Of the four appointed by the governor or the chief judge, no more than two can be enrolled in the same political party; two must be members of the state bar association, two must not. The Democratic and Republican leaders of both the Senate and Assembly get one appointment each. The commissioners face no requirement to submit financial disclosure forms detailing private sources of income. In one instance, Commissioner Matthew Biben resigned from the body when his wife, Ellen, applied for a Court of Appeals vacancy in 2021. But commission rules emphasize disclosure, not resignation or recusal, as the remedy when possible conflicts occur. The rules say commissioners will "disclose to the commission" any relationship with an applicant that "has or may reasonably appear to have a bearing on the nomination process." There is no rule requiring commissioners to recuse from voting on a candidate for any reason. In fact, an aspect of state law discourages recusal. For a candidate to appear on a list sent to the governor, eight of 12 commissioners must vote in their favor. If a commissioner recuses from voting on a particular candidate, that effectively serves as a no vote. And if recusals were common, it would put judges who apply to the commission but have commissioners arguing cases before them at an inherent disadvantage. Human nature Commissioner Cirando runs a boutique firm based in Syracuse and is widely regarded as one of New York's preeminent appellate lawyers, according to his firms website. On Feb. 9, Cirando made his oral argument before the Court of Appeals, seeking a new hearing for his client convicted of rape. Eight days later, the Commission on Judicial Nomination began soliciting a new round of applicants for chief judge. On March 24, the commission released its second, seven-person list. Three Court of Appeals justices Wilson, Troutman and Cannataro made the cut, while Rivera did not. Wilson was confirmed as chief on April 18, and two days later, the Court of Appeals ruled 4-2 against Cirandos client. Cannataro and Troutman joined the majority finding that Cirando's client should not get a new hearing. Wilson dissented, concurring with an opinion written by Rivera that a new hearing should be granted, an act consistent with Wilson's reputation for carefully considering defendants' rights. Cirando declined to comment. The two commissioners most frequently in mid-level state appellate courts, one step below the Court of Appeals, are Cirando and Michael Hutter. Those mid-level courts often produce Court of Appeals candidates. Like Cirando, Hutter has additionally represented clients before the Court of Appeals. Hutter is special counsel to a prominent Albany-based medical malpractice firm representing plaintiffs, Powers & Santola, where he handles appellate work. During the recent commission vetting processes, records indicate the Court of Appeals avoided ruling on Hutter and Cirando cases. So did the presiding justice of the mid-level appellate court in Albany, Elizabeth Garry, who made the commission's second list in late March. When Hutter had appeared for an argument in her court on Feb. 22, Garry recused herself. That same day, Garry also recused from a case Cirando was arguing. For members of the Commission on Judicial Nomination, the body's voting rules make recusal more difficult on their end. Hutter said his practice is full disclosure to the other commissioners. "I will disclose if I have a case pending in a candidate's court," Hutter said. "If there's a problem, then it can be thrashed out." Another commissioner, Kenneth Manning, is a Buffalo-based partner at Phillips Lytle and has extensive experience in both prosecuting and defending class action lawsuits. He has argued multiple cases before the Court of Appeals. In May 2022, Manning argued before the court on behalf of the Bronx Zoo, which contended that an elephant living there, Happy, was not illegally detained. On June 14, 2022, the Court of Appeals ruled 5-2 in favor of Mannings client. Wilson and Rivera wrote sharply worded, separate dissents; about a month later, DiFiore announced she was stepping down, beginning the process in which Manning would vet a replacement. The commission's chair is Leo Milonas, senior counsel at Pillsbury Winthrop, who specializes in complex commercial litigation and whose clients have included General Electric, Pfizer and Deutsche Bank. He's had multiple past cases before the Court of Appeals. Commissioner Mylan Denerstein is a chair of the appellate practice group at Gibson Dunn, a multinational firm known for appeals work and for representing some of the world's largest companies. Two years ago, Denerstein represented Amazon in a mid-level state appellate court. Manning, Denerstein and Milonas declined to comment. The commissions counsel is Henry Greenberg, who has separately represented multiple clients before the Court of Appeals. Greenberg is a shareholder at the major law firm Greenberg Traurig and the latest in a line of prominent trial lawyers to be the commission's top staffer. Greenberg's main work for the commission is drumming up applications for vacancies on the court. Like the bodys 12 commissioners, Greenberg puts in considerable work for the commission on a volunteer basis. One drawback to appellate lawyers serving as commissioners, professor Bonventre said, is they may look negatively upon judges that have ruled against them, then apply for the Court of Appeals. "Human nature is that they probably think the judge who wrote an opinion against them is weak that they missed an important argument in their case," Bonventre said. On balance, however, Bonventre supports the lawyers' inclusion on the commission. If a commissioner is an appellate attorney, he said, especially someone who handles cases before the Court of Appeals, "they probably have a pretty good understanding of what it takes to be a strong Court of Appeals judge." The Mountain Valley Pipeline got an extraordinary boost in the debt ceiling deal. Court challenges have stalled the controversial natural gas pipeline stretching from West Virginia to North Carolina. North Koreas attempt to put its first spy satellite into space has failed. Wednesday's unsuccessful launch is a setback to leader Kim Jong Uns push to boost his military capabilities. After its unusually quick admission of failure, North Korea vowed to conduct a second launch after it learns what went wrong. A satellite launch by North Korea is a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions. South Korea and Japan briefly urged residents to seek shelter after the launch. South Koreas Defense Ministry released photos of a salvaged white metal cylinder suspected to be part of the crashed North Korean rocket. ViewNorth Korea says it plans to launch its first spy satellite in June, which it would use to monitor military exercises the U.S. holds with South Korea. North Korean officials warned Japan that a launch could come any time between May 31 and June 11, and could affect nearby waters. Japan planned to shoot down any launch... A woman has spoken of her frustration over tourists continually turning up on her doorstep after her home was mistakenly listed on Booking.com. Karin Arsenius, 37, who lives in Plumstead, south-east London, with her two children and partner, said more than 20 unexpected tourists had arrived at her #bookingcom #karinarsenius #plumstead #southeast #algeria #greenwich #argentina A year after arguing Nigeria's ruling party is responsible for terrorist acts, the Trudeau government has sent a cabinet minister to celebrate the swearing-in of its new president. Reprinted from hartmannreport.com In 2021 the Zelenskyy declared a campaign to "de-oligarchize" his nation, having diagnosed Ukraine's political & economic crises as tracing back to the corruption by the morbidly rich Viktor Medvedchuk was the Rupert Murdoch of Ukraine. He ran a rightwing television network and owned TV stations across the country, while simultaneously being one of the richest men in that nation. He promoted hate and division, tax cuts for the rich and gutting the Ukrainian social safety net, and supported some of Ukraine's most toxic politicians. Like many of today's American oligarchs, he owned hundreds of politicians, who consistently voted in Parliament, state, and local governments to protect his businesses, wealth, and influence. Then came Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who successfully campaigned for president on a Teddy Roosevelt-like anti-corruption platform and, like both Teddy and Franklin Roosevelt, declared outright war on politically active oligarchs. As a result, today Medvedchuk is hiding out in Russia, his media properties having been sold to smaller companies that are not oligarch-owned or -influenced. Without the persistent rightwing poison Medvedchuk's TV and other media properties had spread daily throughout Ukraine, the country is now looking at a more democratic future than does America. Essentially, what Ukraine's president and parliament did with their 2021 "deoligarchization" (yes, they actually call it that) law was to say to Ukraine's billionaires: "You may be rich, and you may have whatever political opinions you want, just like every Ukrainian. But because average Ukrainians don't have access to millions or billions to sway public opinion or buy politicians, we will no longer allow you to use your vast riches to corrupt our nation to your own advantage at the expense of average working people." (My words, not Zelenskyy's.) In 2021 the Ukrainian president declared a campaign to "de-oligarchize" his nation, having correctly diagnosed his country's political and economic crises as tracing back to the corruption of Ukrainian politics by that nation's morbidly rich. "In order to succeed, Ukraine must become a rule of law democracy that works in the interests of the many, rather than the few," Zelenskyy declared on May 18, 2021, fully nine months before the Russian invasion. His campaign against Ukraine's oligarchs was as big a threat to Putin's network of rich enablers as were the EU's sanctions or Robert Mueller's prosecutions of them. Some speculate it was the final straw for Putin, provoking his February, 2022 invasion. It was getting a lot of favorable publicity in Russia, and that threatened Putin and the oligarchs who keep him in power. Zelenskyy had made clear his goal of eliminating from Ukrainian political life the vast power and influence of that country's oligarchs. "There is no limit to our ambition," he said in that 2021 statement. "Every Ukrainian is acutely aware of their country's vast untapped potential. In order to realize this potential, we must create a fair and functional system that protects the rights of the entire population rather than safeguarding the interests of the oligarchs. The foundations of this system are currently beginning to take shape. " "Our ultimate objective is to destroy the traditional oligarchic order and replace it with a fairer system that will allow Ukraine to flourish." The law, which went into effect June 7th of last year, defines oligarchs as people who meet three out of four criteria, and limits their behavior in six ways that essentially reduce their political influence to that of average Ukrainians. Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). DARPA logo stylized (Image by A 'Cecil' I) Details DMCA DARPA, the US military's primary research and development agency, is spreading out to other nations, including Australia, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, China, Germany, France, Britain, Italy and the European Union itself. What's the allure? The easy answer is gizmos. We've all seen it over and over again in James Bond movies, Q, the head of Q Branch, coming up with exotic gadgets for the spy, including his gazmo-laden Aston Martin, that will eventually get him out of a jam in a close encounter with the enemy, a moveable feast from film to film, but often engaging Russians and Orientals, our economic arch enemies. The Klingons and the Romulans. F*ck 'em. Don't get Scotty going. Dan Ellsberg says in The Doomsday Machine (2017), his must-read memoir of how he might have started the Cuban Missile Crisis back when he was a Dylan-hated Master of War for the Rand Corporation, that the plans were to nuke both of them, in the event of war, even if we only have a beef with one of them. (Ideology, hmph.) DARPA, of course, is famous for gifting to the world the Internet. It was a knee-jerk reaction to the Russian launch of the Sputnik satellite. When the mo ment passed Americans -- mostly academics, such as Stanford and UCLA -- began enjoying the product designed to establish a secret, secure communications channel in case of war. (It became apparent, however, that ARPANET was probably an overreaction, given the overwhelming nuclear missile advantage -- especially the 10-1 ICBM lead in 1957 and the fact that the US knew where Russia's four missiles were located, according to Ellsberg in Doomsday,p.191.) More recently, the Internet has been largely re-possessed by the Department of Defense, which has unofficially (sometimes more so) declared it a battlefield, making it eligible for comprehensive and intrusive surveillance by the military (and by its abetters, the social media, such as Google and Facebook who build profiles on us all, and put those data streams into fusion database containing an electronic dossier on each of us, as described in Ed Snowden's must-read, aptly named memoir, Permanent Record.) The Internet giveth and the Internet taketh away. (They'll steal your soul if you let them.) This repo has led "hostile" nations to consider establishing their own internets. So far, DARPA's neverending preparations for technological advantages in warfare have gifted Americans (and much of the world) all kinds of goodies and bad Q toys: GPS, BigDog, Cyborg Insects, GUI, Onion Routing, SIRI, HAARP, and stealth technology. This brings up the concept of "dual use." See, these all sound good, right? Nuh-uh. Take GPS: For months, I got a report in my inbox from Google telling me every place I had been last month, and imagined what if the cops or spooks had such intel (not that I had anything to hide anymore). And BigDog appears to have inspired the robodogs that will terrorize BLM in Seattle from now on, and will perhaps pack heat in the future: Freeze, punk, woof, ban g! Cyborg insects make one queasy, like reading one of Octavia Butler's stories (think: "Blood Child"), and DARPA has them mind-controlled, which makes you even queasier after you read about their recent advances in human brain-computer interfaces (what must DARPA think of the teeming masses?) And, who knows, maybe you could be sued the next time you smack! a DARPA-modeled bloodsucking "mosquito" there to collect a lab sample of your DNA. Onion Routing, Tor being the most famous, is supposed to keep prying eyes from intercepting your communications -- cool on the battlefield, where end-users are anonymous, but pointless if you are in a 'profiled dissident' fusion database and they have rootkit working your OS already. The dual use concept is problematic at its root. It's built on the same paranoia that responded to the Sputnik launch. DARPA's mission has always been: to make sure America was never again beaten by technological surprise. It's a warfare mentality. It leads to crazy ideas and crazy thinking -- and sometimes enormous risk-taking. Take, for instance, DARPA's insistence on creating a super virus to be ready for the worst should the Russians or Chinese beat them to it. I'm not saying that they created Covid-19, for that would be a conspiracy theory for which I could be pilloried (and rightfully so!), but only that they (or the DoD) fully intended to create such a monster before their enemies did by bringing Jake LaMotta out of retirement to beat the fudge out of a Coronavirus until it was bad sh*t crazy and so manly virile it needed release like the animated Tasmanian Devil. If they didn't, then the Chinese or Russians might first. It can get crazier. The quasi-DARPA division of the Air Force once got so loopy that they came up with the idea of dropping a Gay Bomb on their enemy. The dropped bomb would release an aphrodisiac that made the soldiers so fuckin horny for each other that they gave up war and gave piece a chance. Harvard awarded Wright Laboratory the Ig Nobel Peace Prize for the idea in 2007. But where did they get the idea? Did someone misread Enola (backwards, alone) Gay? Was it original -- or did they flat out steal the idea from Abbie Hoffman? The week before Abbie was to levitate the Pentagon in October 1967, he called New York Daily News reporter John Garabedian and told him of a plan to seduce warriors with a squirt gun. As Garabedian recalls the incident in Larry Sloman's must-read oral history of the 60s counterculture, Steal This Dream: It was the week before the march on the Pentagon. I was at my desk in the city room and there was a message to call Hoffman. When I called him back, he let me know that hippie chemists had invented a new wonder drug which combined the best properties of LSD with a drug called DMSO, a legitimate skin-penetrating agent used to treat certain kinds of arthritis. And therefore on the day of the march to the Pentagon ...which, by the way, by magic was going to be levitated... hippie chicks would fill squirt guns full of this love potion, which consisted of LSD and DMSO, and squirt them on the soldiers or anyone else of an evil or warlike frame of mind, thereby causing them to want to stop making war and immediately make love. [p.96] Maybe they should rename it the Abbie Bomb. Fuckin thieves. Steal this finger. In any case, we sure could have used the Bomb in Ukraine, not caring which way the wind doth blow. By the way, which one is Pink? The Business Model What the expanding roster of nation-states likes most about DARPA is its business model. The Bing chatbot goes: DARPA does not directly perform research or operate any research laboratories, but rather executes its R&D programs mainly through contracts with industry, universities, non-profit organizations, and federal R&D laboratories. DARPA's high-risk, high-reward R&D funding approach inevitably results in many unsuccessful projects. DARPA is a relatively small agency with around 220 employees, including approximately 100 program managers overseeing about 250 programs. Its website notes that 'DARPA benefits greatly from special statutory hiring authorities and alternative contracting vehicles'. DARPA is remarkable for both governments and corporations because of its consistent track record of radical breakthroughs with modest resources. Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). The armed conflict between the Palestinian people of the West Bank and Gaza continues against the Israeli forces who maintain the over 5 million residents under a brutal military occupation, with no human rights, and no freedom in sight. Steven Sahiounie of MidEastDiscourse interviewed Sami, the Bedouin, a Palestinian writer and blogger. He is originally ethnically cleansed from Ashdod, in Occupied Palestine, but living as a refugee in the West Bank Occupied Palestine. As an activist for Palestine, he has been arrested several times and spent some years in the zionist jails for resisting the zionist occupation. He's been blogging exclusively about Palestine in different sites and in his blog www.samibedouin.wordpress.com #1. Steven Sahiounie (SS): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the targeted assassinations of three leaders of Islamic Jihad in Gaza. It appears Netanyahu did so for his own benefit, because he faces huge domestic political issues. What is your view on this situation? Sami the Bedouin (SB): Netanyahu didn't invent, or start the Israeli assassination policy against the Palestinian leaders and activists; he just continued a systematic and continuous state-sponsored policy. Steering the attention away from the Israeli internal dilemma and saving Netanyahu from the masses of demonstrating Israelis could be a side and temporary result for attacking Gaza but we can't blame only Netanyahu for that longstanding policy, or even the current wave of assassination that was decided and carried out by the Israeli cabinet, ie, the whole Israeli government, plus, there was a massive support from the whole Israeli political spectrum for the killing, although most of the victims were civilians. Now, to understand the Israeli systematic assassination policy you have got to know that it is an integral part of all the Israeli governments as "Israel" has been using Death Squads even before it was established, and once it was terrorist groups of Lehi, Irgun, and Stern. Most of the Zionist leaders were directly involved in this systematic policy and the assassins mostly become the top leaders of "Israel", like Begin, Shamir, Sharon, Barak, Livni, Bennett, Shaked and the list is endless. This policy was started as early as 1930s when the Jewish National Fund JNF had compelled an inventory that included the topographic location of each village with detailed information including husbandry, cultivated land, number of trees, quality of fruit, average amount of land per family, number of cars, shop owners, Palestinian clans and their political affiliation, descriptions of village mosques and names of their imams, civil servants and more. The final inventory update was finished in 1947 with lists of "wanted" persons in each village targeted in 1948 for search-and-arrest operations with those seized summarily shot on the spot in cold blood. The assassination policy is an Israeli built-in strategy in order to weaken the Palestinian leadership within the major Zionist target of committing what is known to be a political genocide against the Palestinian people to deprive it from its able leadership to pave the way to subordinate, submissive and compromising leadership. #2. SS: There are building, and ongoing tensions in the Occupied West Bank, between the Israeli occupation forces and the Palestinian people. There have been many raids, attacks and deaths and injuries. How do you see the situation today? SB: Occupation is the source of all the long standing and ongoing tension between the occupier and the revolting. Since 2019 there has been a dramatic rise in the settlers attacks against the Palestinians and their properties from uprooting olive and vine fields, to attacking sheep herders and even shooting sheep and goats, demolition of houses and building structures, to vandalizing mosques and churches, to throwing stones at the passing Palestinian cars killing and wounding innocent civilians, to the daily harassment and humiliation at the checkpoints. All these settlers' atrocities are supported by the Israeli official policy coupled to not only the Palestinian Authority's (PA) inability to protect its citizens, but its direct involvement with the occupier in the security coordination, which has built up a growing frustration among the Palestinian youth to protect their people personally by forming armed groups. Another main factor of the tension is the provocative settlers raids on the Aqsa Mosque in a well-known plan to demolish it and build the Israeli alleged temple, these raids are carried out by the most racist Zionist settlers attacking the native Jerusalemites and cursing Islam and the prophet Muhammad in a clear way to provoke the natives. I don't think there is a near solution for the whole situation, but it is going to get even worse by time for different reasons; Israel's in ability and unwillingness to stop the settler's atrocities, but will keep providing protection for the extreme right racists, as the current Israeli government is far-right and racist itself. The deep and systematic corruption in the PA which generates the masses mistrust and revolt against it which means more militant groups including from Fateh party itself to take the streets against the default PA that is cooperating with the occupier. There is no political horizon that could give hope, on the contrary there is expansion in the settlement and the settlers attacks. I expect mass revolt against the PA at a certain point like a foolish act by the PA police, or by the death of Abbas. It is hard to guess, but the possibility is around the corner. #3. SS: During Ramadan, the Israeli occupation forces repeatedly attacked worshipers at the Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, and entered the Mosque several times while beating men, women and children. Recently, Jewish extremists threatened to raise an Israeli flag on the Mosque. In your opinion, what is the current situation, and what should be the response? SB: It is clear that there is a Jewish intention, and plan to demolish Al-Aqsa compound and build their alleged temple on its site based on their Talmudic heresies of Armageddon and salvation. We should always remember that the 1929 massacre was intrigued by Jewish demonstrations holding Israeli flags calling for the demolition of the Mosque, a week of Jewish provocative marches resulted in that massacre. This shows us that the Jewish intention to demolish the Mosque, and build their temple, is not only a slogan but a real plan among the extremist Jewish masses, and they are getting stronger and stronger to dominate the government, as it is the case now. Now, these extremist and provocative demonstrations are not only extremist, but mainstream, supported by the official Israeli government and police, where the Muslims are attacked, beaten and even killed inside while the Jewish extremists are given full protection and encouragement by the Israeli police accompanied by ministers in the Israeli government. All this happens while the PA is not only helpless and dumb, but in a full security cooperation with the occupying authorities. Once again, this blocked and deteriorating situation breeds frustration among the Palestinian youths that would leads into more armed resistance, which, at a certain point might force the armed groups in Gaza to join the struggle. #4. SS: We have all seen the UN report naming Israel as an Apartheid state. Meanwhile, the war crimes, and crimes against humanity continue being committed by Israel against the Palestinian people, and the international community takes no action. In your opinion, how can Israel's impunity be stopped? SB: The racist can never admit or internalize he is racist, on the contrary, he would try to justify his racism by religious or cultural motifs as it is the case in the Israeli Zionist society. They can't see that there are over 60 racist laws that discriminate against the native Palestinians, these laws that were approved by the Knesset itself, ie, the Israeli government, which means racism is an official paradigm. The Palestinian is discriminated against not only in and by the Israeli law, but in every aspect of his daily life, like building a house, traveling within or out Palestine where certain routes and roads are assigned for the less privileged Palestinians. Discrimination is not only against the Occupied Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, but it is a systematic policy even against the Israeli-Arab citizens, it is a built-in Israeli dogma that can't be unplugged, but by de-zionizing Israel itself. The whole west, especially the USA and Britain are complicit with the Israeli apartheid and racist regime. They provide not only protection in the UN institutions, but also a flood of political, military and financial support for Israel. I don't think the privileged racist would wake up one day to say I want to stop; it only can be stopped by real pressure from outside especially from the US, as it is the main patron for the Israeli regime. Stopping the Israeli impunity can't be while the Israeli Jews are intoxicated by power and the endless and unconditioned political and military support. Real pressure, especially sanctions (like that against Iran and Russia) might do the job. This can start by supporting the BDS movement, but not sanction it. Fighting the BDS would worsen the situation and lead Israel deep into its racist apartheid regime. In fact, and in reality, the Israeli Jewish society is growing more and more talmudically racist, and socially and politically an apartheid regime at its best, this could be good at the long run as all people would realize the racist nature of the Zionist colonial project from the very beginning as it has been based on ethno-religious paradigm. Racist regimes can't change themselves from within by their privileged agents, but as it was with Nazi Germany, the Zionist-Jewish colony should and must be saved from outside power to save it from its own brutality. #5. SS: China brokered a peace deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia. How can this new, and improved relationship affect the Israeli-Palestinian cause? SB: The first and biggest loser by the Saudi-Iranian reconciliation is Israel, as it has been investing in Sunni-Shiite enmity for decades, but all of sudden, everything has turned upside down for the Zionist government. All the Israeli political plans over the past two decades were concentrated on breaking through the Sunni Arab governments to build a military alliance against Iran. It succeeded partially, but the latest Saudi-Iranian rapprochement has been a major slap for the whole Zionist project. This is coupled with the rising role of China in the Middle East, while the American involvement is retreating. On the other hand, we are witnessing a global power shift, gradual but steady from the West to the East at the economic and political levels. In the long run, the Zionist project of Israel will lose especially when it is intoxicated by power and ideological blindness, just like the Nazis in their final years. I don't believe the two states is a viable solution any more, but the only humane and plausible solution would be a one secular state for all, where everybody is treated equally, but when and how the racist intoxicated with power, mad dog would wake up? Only external blow or pressure would do the job, at the meantime I am too pessimist and expect another Srebrenica massacre if the world, especially the Americans wouldn't wake up before it is too late. Steven Sahiounie is a two-time award-winning journalist The Ukraine-Hungary controversies reached the top. Hungary continues to block release of EU military funds for Ukraine. The 500 million is part of the bloc's European Peace Facility, which aims to help embattled countries, such as Ukraine. According to Euronews, EU foreign ministers have failed to agree on new funds to finance weapons for Ukraine, after Hungary blocked the decision. The more so, Hungary has refused to supply any military equipment to Ukraine. It is not a secret that since 2017, the Hungary-Ukraine relations rapidly deteriorated over the issue of Ukraine's education law. Ukraine's 2017 education law makes Ukrainian the required language of primary education in state schools from grade five. La'szlo Brenzovics, the only ethnic Hungarian in the Supreme Council of Ukraine, said that "There is a sort of purposeful policy, which besides narrowing the rights of all minorities, tries to portray the Hungarian minority as the enemy in Ukrainian public opinion." The situation since then has been ongoing in problem, as Hungary continues to block Ukraine's attempt to integrate within the EU and NATO over disputes on minority rights. Victor Orban, Prime Minister of Hungary, said in an interview with the Kossuth radio station on May 5 that Hungarians wish to see peace in Ukraine because a part of their neighboring country is an ancient land of the Hungarian people (known in Hungarian as Magyars). The Hungarians in Ukraine (Hungarian: Ukrajnai magyarok, Ukrainian: ????? ? ???degrees--?, tr. uhortsi v Ukraini) number 156,600 people according to the Ukrainian census of 2001 and are the third largest national minority in the country. In its turn, Ukraine has found a radical way to resolve the discrepancy. It seems as if Ukraine has invented the hard tool of punishing obstinate Hungary. It mobilizes people of Hungarian original and sends them to the combat zone where they die. A consumer class action lawsuit filed Tuesday claims Delta Air Lines inaccurately billed itself as the worlds first carbon-neutral airline and should pay damages. The complaint in federal court in California alleges the airline relied on carbon offsets that were largely bogus. Companies around the world buy carbon credits to cancel out their carbon releases with projects that promise to absorb carbon dioxide out of the air, or prevent pollution that wouldve happened. But theyve been under the spotlight in recent months with claims their benefits are exaggerated. Delta is a big customer, purchasing credits from projects including wind and solar projects in India and an Indonesian swamp forest, the lawsuit says. The airline did not respond to a request for comment. The case, filed by Glendale, California resident Mayanna Berrin, claims to act on behalf of anyone who flew Delta while living in the state since March 2020. It says benefits from the offsets are likely to be temporary and would have happened even without the firms investment. For a carbon credit to be valid, it must provide a benefit that would not have happened otherwise. Delta announced three years ago it would go carbon neutral, which means releasing no more climate-changing pollution into the air than it absorbs. It can also mean paying to guarantee it is absorbed elsewhere. Berrin argues this enabled the firm to gain market share and charge higher prices. A writer for Nickelodeon, Berrin told The AP she is about to enter her thirties and climate anxiety is pronounced in people her age. I felt comfortable paying more because I was neutralizing when I needed to travel for work or to see my family, she said. She said she felt frustration and regret when she began having doubts about Deltas offsets. They cant just claim neutrality if thats not factually accurate, she said. Lawsuits in general are very scary, and there are a lot of people who echo my frustrations who may not know their rights or the impact they can make by speaking up. Her attorney Jonathan Haderlein believes its the first such case against a major American airline, and one of just a handful of greenwashing cases in the U.S. based on consumer protection law. The case number is 2:23-cv-04150. In 2021 aviation made up more than 2% of global CO2 emissions, according to the International Energy Agency. Earlier on Tuesday, Delta, based in Atlanta, Georgia, had 672 flights in the air globally, according to FlightRadar24, which tracks GPS data pinged to satellites and receivers. -- The Associated Press Elon Musk is currently in China in what is his first visit to the country in three years. Tesla is a dominant player in the world's largest electric vehicle (EV) market and while the purpose of the CEO's visit is not known, Musk has once again grabbed the spotlight on Chinese social media sites. Musk commands a huge fan following on global social media channels, most of which are banned in China. But China has its own social media platforms and Musk is a hugely popular personality even on these. His ongoing stay in the country has sparked further frenzy with fans heaping praises galore. Musk landed in Beijing on Tuesday in a private jet and has since held several meetings with top Chinese government officials. He is also scheduled to visit Tesla's Shanghai facility which was opened in 2019 as the company's first outside of the US. Every move he makes is being watched closely, especially by his fans here. "Elon Musk is just great, if only China could have someone like Elon Musk," a user posted on a Chinese social media platform. He's a global idol," wrote another. For a top official of an American multinational company to visit China is hardly new. But the buzz around Musk's latest visit is far hotter than what it was when Apple CEO Tim Cook came calling in March. Starbucks' Laxman Narasimhan and JP Morgan's Jamie Dimon are also expected in the country this week but the connect that Musk has with people at large may be quite unparalleled. But fanfare for Musk alone won't cut it for Tesla in a cut-throat EV market like China. The company manufactured over 700,000 electric car units in Shanghai last year but has also been facing increased competition from local rivals. The persisting US-China tensions are not helping matters either, perhaps something that may have prompted Tesla officials to hold talks in India for a possible manufacturing facility. Geopolitical tensions and market challenges aside, Musk himself is quite the superhero here as he is in many other parts of the world. Interestingly though, Musk now also owns Twitter, a social-media channel that is blocked in China. (With inputs from Reuters) First Published Date: Police in Vancouver shot and killed an armed-robbery suspect Tuesday evening, the Vancouver police department said. A police detective spotted a car at about 5:30 p.m. headed west on East Mill Plain Boulevard. The detective recognized the driver as a suspect who was wanted for multiple, recent armed robberies, and he followed the car to a nearby Safeway grocery store at Mill Plain and Andresen Road, officials said. The detective and other officers waited outside and witnessed the suspect leave the store. When (the suspect) saw police, he dropped a bag of items, displayed a firearm, ran westbound through the parking lot and during the attempt to apprehend him the suspect fired at officers, and they returned fire, Vancouver police said in a statement. Video of officers running and shooting in the shopping-center parking lot was captured by bystanders and posted online. Police said three Vancouver police officers and one Clark County sheriffs deputy fired their weapons. The suspect died at the scene. No other injuries have been reported. Police have not yet publicly identified the suspect. Officials said the names of the officers involved in the shooting would be released at a later time. The officers who discharged their weapons have been placed on leave pending an investigation, which is the usual procedure. The Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team, led by the Cowlitz County Sheriffs Office, is investigating the shooting. -- The Oregonian/OregonLive; dperry@oregonian.com When the communists sent her husband to prison, Ha Luu baked bread. The year was 1975, and Luu better known to Portlanders as Christina, the amiable matriarch at Vietnamese soup restaurant Ha VL suddenly found herself raising five young sons without a partner, or a home. So Luu did what she could to survive, hawking clothes on the street, collecting plastic for a recycler, baking baguettes for simple sandwiches. Luu, 75, died Monday at home with her husband. The cause was cancer. She is survived by husband William Vuong and sons Hung, Peter, Richard, Han, Steven and Kenny Vuong, as well as two sisters, a brother and 20 grandchildren. That Luu was eventually able to make the perilous boat crossing to the United States, raise a family and open a restaurant widely considered one of Portlands best might be less impressive than the very fact that she was able to keep herself and her family alive during that harrowing decade after the fall of Saigon. The communists kicked me out of my home, Luu told The Oregonian in 2019. I had no house, no car, no money. I had four boys, my first son was only eight years old, and I was six months pregnant. They didnt want my son coming back to school, because they said, Hes the son of CIA. On Tuesday, Luus sons gathered once more at the familys home in Southeast Portlands Mill Park neighborhood, one traveling by car from Kansas. An altar along the living rooms south wall was filled with flowers, fruit and photos of Luu and her ancestors. Luu was born in Hanoi in 1947, then moved with her family to Kon Tum province in the highlands above central Vietnam in 1954. She first met Vuong, an English language instructor, while attending a Catholic girls school there. The pair were married in 1966. During the war, Vuong served as a translator and intelligence agency asset for the United States embassy in Saigon. An American generals promise of safe passage out of the city evaporated in the chaos of April 1975, and Vuong was arrested for his role working with the United States. She took care of my five children while I was in prison, Vuong said during an interview at his home Tuesday. She worked very hard, selling clothing on the pavement to collect money. She was the wife of the officer at the embassy in Saigon, so she had a very hard time with the communists. Hung Vuong, the couples oldest son, remembers being homeless during those years, and times when they had no food. We were starving, Hung Vuong said. My second brother (Peter) and I would go out on the street to collect all kinds of stuff and sell it to a dealer. Plastic, things like that. We would stay up all night washing it while my mom was doing her work. With meat hard to come by, the familys banh mi stand sold bread grilled with butter and sprinkled with what sugar they could afford. Sometimes I cant imagine how we could survive until today, William said. It was a very tough life with the communists. After eight years behind bars and a further two under a restrictive probation, William was finally freed in 1985. It would be another seven before he and Luu were able to leave Vietnam. During that time, their four oldest boys fled the country by boat, first landing at Malaysias notoriously crowded Bidong Island refugee camp. Eventually, Vuong and Luu paid to send their sons to Oregon, one-by-one, where their residency was sponsored by a former student of Vuongs. The family wasnt fully reunited until the early 1990s. I sent four boys by boat to the United States, and I didnt know where they were, Luu said in 2019. Long time every night I cry. 68 1 / 68 Rose VL serves Vietnamese soups in Southeast Portland Peter, their second son, was the first to leave. We did not receive any information for three months, William said Tuesday. I thought he had been killed by pirates. Every day Christina and I went to many fortune tellers in Saigon to see whats going on. But we were lucky. He survived. When they arrived, Luu and Vuong briefly ran a convenience store on Southeast Holgate Street, then opened their first restaurant, a cafe and deli about a mile up 82nd Avenue. At the time, Ha VL specialized in strong coffee and sandwiches, but the couple soon became interested in adding soup. I saw other restaurant menus had 200 dishes, William said. But we decided we would only cook one. Starting with a spicy yet elegant bun bo Hue, Luu and Vuong recreated soup recipes from memory and fanatical recipe testing. One soup became two, then a dozen, with two offered each day, six days a week, each with its own noodle, toppings, garnishes and labor-intensive broth. Local chefs, restaurant critics, television crews, magazine writers and James Beard Award voters took note of what the restaurant proudly describes as its meticulous soups. Bamboo Shoots Chicken Noodle Soup - Bun Mang Ga: bamboo shoots and chicken with vermicelli noodle in chicken broth. Rose VL Deli, located at 6424 S.E. Powell Blvd., is the sister Vietnamese restaurant to Ha & VL. LC- The Oregonian In 2015, the couple handed Ha VL over to Peter Vuong and opened a second restaurant, Rose VL, with many of the same soups, only served on different days. For fans of Vuong and Luus restaurants, Rose VLs 2018 addition of cao lau, a Central Vietnamese noodle dish rarely seen on American restaurant menus, was treated like a city-wide holiday. According to William, Luu tested 16 different iterations of the dishs essential sauce. If you were lucky enough to visit Ha VL or Rose VL when Luu was in the kitchen, you might have experienced her signature hospitality, asking about your familys health then explaining the nuances of a dish. Small details about her cooking stood out over time. The quality of the broths. The creamy center of a perfectly cooked quails egg. Golden-brown chicken that was clearly roasted before going in the soup. After 55 years of marriage, the couple stepped back from restaurant operations during the pandemic. Peter and wife Loan Vuong remain in charge of Ha VL, 2738 S.E. 82nd Ave. #102, while Rose VL, 6424 S.E. Powell Blvd. has been run by Steven Vuong, wife Helen Huynh and her family (Steven and Helen recently relocated to Dallas, but are back in Portland for the time being). Ha VL plans to remain closed from now through mid June. Earlier this year, doctors recommended hospice care for Luu after cancer was found in her lungs and liver. She died just after midnight on Monday, May 29. A Buddhist nun was brought to the house to pray for her souls safe passage to the next realm. A prayer service, viewing and cremation will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday at Omega Funeral & Cremation Services, 223 S.E. 122nd Ave. Michael Russell; mrussell@oregonian.com Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe The full title of Beaverton student Alexander Plekhanovs Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair prize winning invention is a mouthful: Skew-Axis Cylinder Lens Optical System. A student enrolled both at the Beaverton Academy of Science and Engineering and Portland Community College, Plekhanov invented and created the device with the help of a 3-D printer in his garage-turned-laboratory. It is intended to help optometrists better pinpoint the lenses needed to correct astigmatism, a common imperfection in the eyes curvature that can make vision blurry and happens to run in Plekhanovs family. His lens system, Plekhanov says and the judges at the ISEF agreed, can diagnose the issue in a fraction of the time that the current bulky device through which weve all peered blearily at an eye chart, squinting through a series of different lenses, takes. His goal: To make it as simple as peering through a set of binoculars and putting them into focus. To hear Alexander Plekhanov explain the science behind his prize-winning device, click here. The invention earned Plekhanov a trip to Sweden in December to attend the Nobel Prize ceremonies and participate in the International Youth Science Seminar in Stockholm. He placed first in the physics and astronomy category of the fair and received a $5,000 prize. But hes not stopping there. Plekhanov, who is graduating next month at 16 and will matriculate at the California Institute of Technology this fall, says he is in the process of getting a patent for his optical system and wants to publish the results of his work in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. I also hope that I can actually drive it to full implementation and get this device into optometric offices, he said. And in fact, it doesnt even have to be in optometric offices, because what I envision is that one could even just walk up to a kiosk at a pharmacy and get a vision self-check in a minute or two, without any appointment or long and tedious procedure. It would offer better accuracy and cost less too. Yes, he knows that carries echoes of disgraced Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes thoroughly faked vision of a machine in pharmacies that with one drop of blood could screen patients for a multitude of diseases. The clear difference: My device actually works, says Plekhanov. I have the results, I have the data. Ive presented this to many specialists in the field and had them use my device on themselves for proof of concept. Hes been passionate about science for years, Plekhanov said, dating back to a third-grade science project during which he tested oil filters to prove his hypothesis that the most expensive products would work better than their cheaper counterparts. Turns out, he was incorrect, but no matter. He had been bitten by the science fair bug, and the methods were less problematic than his fourth-grade deep dive into whether putting tin foil into a microwave would improve its heating uniformity. It didnt, but it did break the microwave. From a very young age, I had questions about a lot of things, and I just wanted to find a way to answer them, he says. Science was a venue for that. His father, an engineer, and his mother, an accountant, encouraged him all along the way, as did his sixth-grade science teacher at Stoller Middle School, Pamela Svenson, and his high school Advanced Placement physics teacher, Melissa Shell. His life is not only about physics, of course. On the weekends just for fun and to relax Plekhanov and some friends are building a functional, two-seater airplane which he estimates will be ready for its first test flight in a month or so. And hes an intern in the cardiometabolic lab at Oregon Health & Science University. But his true love is physics, which he plans to study at Cal Tech. Physics really helps us to understand the very fundamentals of our world, Plekhanov said. The fact that we can really describe our world, and predict things, that really appeals to me. Julia Silverman, @jrlsilverman, jsilverman@oregonian.com A Northwest Portland synagogues plan to begin asbestos abatement work next Monday has upset families whose children attend a Portland Public School district charter school that leases space in the congregations building. Tara Herivel, whose son is in fourth grade at the Emerson School, said shes frustrated that Congregation Beth Israel wont push back the work until school lets out for summer. I am a working, single parent, who now has to wonder if my kid will go to school when the abatement project starts, or if its unsafe and he has to stay out, Herivel wrote in an email to the synagogues administrators. We will lose family income, he will lose the end of fourth grade. Emerson, which enrolls about 140 students in grades K-5, is planning a move to a new location downtown this fall after several years at Beth Israel, as the congregation begins building out a new early childhood education center, which is scheduled to open in early 2024. But Emersons administrator Sunita Sandoz said the school has not yet signed a lease for the fall and may need to negotiate with Congregation Beth Israel to remain there until its new space is ready. Josh Kashinsky, Beth Israels executive director, said hes confident that the long-planned work does not present significant safety concerns to Emersons students or faculty, and said the synagogue wouldnt be moving forward otherwise. None of the classroom spaces are adjacent to where the abatement will happen, Kashinsky said. There is a large auditorium and hallways that separate the classrooms. In addition to the distance barrier, safety barriers will be put in place, including the sealing off of all venting between the spaces. Additionally, he said the contractors that the synagogue has hired will follow all of the Oregon Department of Environmental Qualitys recommended safety procedures. Sandoz noted that Congregation Beth Israel was within its contractual rights to begin the work during the school year, and that shed consulted an independent third-party contractor that also does asbestos abatement work about the scope of the project. That firms assessment was that the work is safe to do while operating school from our current locations within the building and that it does not pose a health or safety hazard to students or staff, Sandoz said. Nevertheless, Emersons after-school care provider, Champions, has decided to suspend its program once the pre-abatement preparations are complete and the mitigation work gets fully underway, Sandoz said. Kashinsky said Beth Israel agreed to push the start date back a week to allow more time for Emerson families to get answers to questions theyve raised. But with that week passed, he said he saw no reason for further delay, given the safety precautions that the congregations contractor, Portland-based PMG, will be putting in place. The overall construction project is a complicated one, long in the works and with many moving parts, he said. Other parents said they were concerned that the state Department of Environmental Quality only requires monitoring of air quality at the end of a project, but has no similar requirement while work is underway. Julia Silverman, @jrlsilverman, jsilverman@oregonlive.com Rising low on the horizon, the June full moon is expected to illuminate Oregon through clear skies, briefly appearing in beautiful hues of yellow and orange. The moon will officially become full at 8:41 p.m. Saturday, June 3. In Portland, the moon will rise at 9:06 p.m. in the southeast part of the sky. Called a strawberry moon by the Old Farmers Almanac (due to the ripening of strawberries this time of year), the full moon in June can take on a champagne-colored hue as it crests the horizon. Jim Todd, director of space science education at OMSI, said moons often take on hues of red, yellow or orange when close to the horizon, as light rays are refracted by particles in the atmosphere, filtering out colors like blue, green and purple. Moons that are closer to the summer solstice are lower on the horizon, and can therefore pick up more color. Because full moons occur when the moon is directly opposite the sun, you can imagine the two as sitting on either side of a celestial see-saw, Todd wrote in an OMSI newsletter. On the day when the sun is highest in the middle of the day (in summer), the moon is at its lowest high point at midnight; and on the day when the sun is at its lowest high point in the middle of the day (in winter), the moon is at its highest high point at midnight. Some viewers in Portland may struggle to see the June full moon, which will be at a very low 17 degrees in the sky, Todd added. Skies are expected to be clear at least, according to forecasts by the National Weather Service. Sunset will be at 8:53 p.m. in Portland, just a little before the moonrise. Astrologically speaking, the full moon will be in Sagittarius. According to Cafe Astrology, this moon is about communication, attitude and a sense of adventure. It is at opposition to the sun in Gemini, creating a polarity between logic and intuition. Some of the lowest tides of the year will follow the June full moon, falling below two feet at many spots along the Oregon coast from June 4 to 7, according to tide predictions by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Jamie Hale 503-294-4077; jhale@oregonian.com; @HaleJamesB Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe The opposition to the governors recommended changes that she be given hiring and firing authority over those leading the public defense system is coming from the Public Defense Services Commission, which oversees the Office of Public Defense Services (Gov. Tina Kotek seeks changes to bill that would overhaul Oregons public defense system, May 23). The commission chair has served on the commission for at least the past 10 years, and during that time the public defense crisis has only gotten worse. Metropolitan Public Defenders reported earlier this year that it had lost 47 attorneys since January 2020 an extraordinary amount of turnover. Multnomah Defenders, Inc, another Multnomah County public defender office, lost 15 attorneys since July 2021. At least five women attorneys left OPDS in a 12-month time span from 2020 to 2021. An investigation into allegations of retaliation by OPDS management and potential gender-related pay inequity remains unfinished 22 months later. As a criminal defense attorney who previously worked for Metropolitan Public Defenders, I support the governors proposal. If a management team at Nike, Adidas or any other business had this kind of turnover and internal dysfunction negatively impacting the business, they would get demoted or fired. With this kind of track record, giving the PDSC what it wants moving from the judicial branch to the executive branch without direct accountability to the governor defies logic and would send public defense into further decline. The Legislature should give Gov. Kotek the tools she needs to hold OPDS and the PDSC accountable until the public defense crisis is fixed. Rachel Philips, Portland To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion. The Oregon Department of Justice is reviewing whether to open a criminal investigation into Nishad Singh, a former executive at disgraced cryptocurrency exchange FTX, for donating $500,000 to the Democratic Party of Oregon under a false name. The agency is also more broadly reviewing potential criminal wrongdoing associated with the half million dollar donation, made the month before last falls closely fought governors race, and hasnt ruled out bringing charges against Democratic Party officials. I first met Meg Rulli while working on an article about an all-female winery cooperative. Based on her energy and sheer determination to make wine, I had no doubt Id be writing this article one day. Flipturn Cellars is best known for: minimal intervention, food-friendly wines with elevated acidity. Innovation: Most winemakers wait until someone enters their tasting room before the education process begins. Much like Mr. Hand in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Rulli is willing to take the lesson into peoples homes. Rulli, who holds a level three certification from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, created an online wine education program called Barrel Dork. The program is designed to demystify wine for people interested in learning more about their favorite beverage, from becoming comfortable ordering wine in restaurants to starting a collection. Theres definitely an intimidation factor to wine that I hope to overcome in a fun way, Rulli said. The Barrel Dork Academy offers 47 online lessons for $300. The Barrel Dork website also offers free content about wine basics, food pairings, grape varieties and wine travel. HERE IS OREGON: HereisOregon.com | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok Must try current release: 2022 Flipturn Cellars Skin Contact Chardonnay ($34 12.2% ABV). For her first ever white wine, Rulli set out to create an unoaked chardonnay with brisk acidity. Mission accomplished. The chardonnay grapes from the Horse Heaven Hills American Viticulture Area in Washington were picked early to keep sugar levels down. They then spent six days soaking on their skins before the whole clusters were loaded into the press to undergo native fermentation in a stainless steel tank. The resulting wine has all the hoped-for briskness and, thanks to the skin contact, nice texture with what Rulli described as scratchy tannins. The wine is also filled with fresh, clean aromas and flavors of lemon basil, tangerines, guava, saline and rose petals. The wines label art is a bonus, reminding me of the poster for the classic surf film The Endless Summer. This is fitting, given that this refreshing chardonnay triggers a daydream filled with ocean breezes, sandy beach blankets and an old paperback. History: Rullis interest in wine started in college while studying overseas in Barcelona. I grew up in a beer household, and in Spain I was suddenly exposed to all these good, inexpensive table wines, Rulli said. That interest intensified as Rulli and her husband visited wine regions in Argentina, Australia and Italy during their travels. When the couple settled in Oregon to launch a digital advertising agency, Rulli immediately noticed the regions thriving wine scene. When not working on advertising, Rulli took any wine industry job she could find, from working in tasting rooms to conducting in-store wine presentations. In 2019 she decided to learn more about the production side by volunteering to work harvest for four different wineries. In 2020 Rulli dove headfirst into winemaking by buying one ton of Eastern Washington syrah to make her first wine at Helioterra Wines in Portland, then home to an all-female winery cooperative. Flipturn Cellars was born. The winerys name is a tip of the swim cap to Rullis competitive collegiate swimming career. The flip turn is a quick, precise move that reverses a swimmers course. In other words, a perfect name for Rullis winery. What we dont know: In 2019, Rulli joined her husband and a small group of friends in summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, Africas highest mountain. Also, Rulli once ran a lucrative bagel-toasting operation. When administrators at Rullis high school didnt promptly replace a broken cafeteria toaster, she took action. The kids panicked because in Upstate New York, toasted bagels for breakfast are a staple, Rulli said. Rulli brought her familys toaster to school and charged students 25 cents per bagel for toaster time. Advice for anyone thinking about making wine: You dont have to have all the answers when you start out. I wish I had known that. Just get started and take it one step at a time. And never be afraid to ask questions, because the Oregon wine community is great about answering pleas for help, Rulli said. Last book read: The Vanishing Half: A Novel by Brit Bennett. Where to buy: To locate Flipturn Cellars wines in Portland, head to Dogwood Wine & Flowers, Ps & Qs Market and Division Wines. Non-Portland options include Market of Choice in West Linn and The Portland Wine Cellar in, oddly enough, Beaverton. To enjoy Flipturn Cellars wines by the glass, visit Abigail Hall, Alouette or Muse Winebar in Portland. By appointment, flipturncellars.com or meg@flipturncellars.com. -- Michael Alberty writes about wine for The Oregonian/OregonLive and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. He can be reached at malberty0@gmail.com. To read more of his coverage, go to oregonlive.com/wine Shanghai (Gasgoo)- China's Anhui Province will set up an over 100 billion yuan worth of investment fund for the automotive industry chain, aimed at supporting the construction of internationally influential automotive industry clusters and ensuring the effective implementation of relevant measures. The decision was revealed during the opening ceremony of the "Invest in Anhui" series event held on May 28, where the Anhui Provincial Development and Reform Commission presented the "Anhui Province New Energy and Intelligent Connected Vehicle Industry Ecological Construction Plan" (referred to as the "Plan"). The Plan outlines a groundbreaking vision for the province's automotive industry. By 2025, Anhui Province aims to make significant progress in nurturing a world-class automobile industry cluster and establishing a comprehensive industrial ecosystem. The plan envisions a development pattern with a focus on pure electric vehicles, supplemented by plug-in hybrid vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicle demonstrations. As of 2025, the Province aims to create a vibrant automotive ecosystem with a coordinated integration of vehicle manufacturing, components, and after-sales services. It is ambitious to produce 4.1 million vehicles annually, with new energy vehicles accounting for 50% of the total output. Additionally, the Province aims to achieve an annual battery production capacity of 150 GWh, hit a 1:1.2 ratio of vehicle production to parts supply, and reach a post-market scale of 60 billion yuan. Photo credit: JAC Group By 2027, Anhui Province plans to establish two or three globally renowned automobile manufacturers and world-class automobile brands. The goal is to attract leading key component enterprises and nurture top-tier after-sales service providers, positioning the Province as a hub known for its intelligent vehicles with global recognition and influence. In terms of innovative ecological construction, Anhui Province intends to establish an open automobile ecological laboratory and promote comprehensive cooperation between traditional automotive companies and ICT (information and communications technology) firms. Additionally, a national-level testing center for new energy vehicle manufacturing and components will be constructed there. During the ceremony, seven enterprises, including NIO, Volkswagen (Anhui) Company Limited, and Chery Holding Group, jointly signed and released the "Consensus on Building a High-level New Energy and Intelligent Connected Vehicle Industry Supply Chain." Anhui Province has already attracted seven major vehicle manufacturers, namely, Chery, JAC Group, NIO, Changan Auto, BYD, Volkswagen, and Hanma Automobile. Furthermore, the province is also home to over 1,100 major component enterprises (with annual revenue of 20 million yuan or more from their main business operations). In 2022, Anhui Province produced 1.747 million vehicles, with the output of new energy vehicles reaching 527,000 units. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate WASHINGTON (AP) Some of Adidas' remaining Yeezy shoes are back on sale months after the German sportswear company cut ties with Ye, the rapper formerly known as Kanye West. Adidas ended its yearslong partnership with Ye in late October, in light of his antisemitic remarks and other harmful behavior. In the months that followed, the fate of 1.2 billion euros ($1.3 billion) worth of unsold Yeezys remained unknown until earlier this month, when Adidas CEO Bjrn Gulden announced the company would be selling a portion of the remaining inventory and donating some of the proceeds to social justice organizations. The first batch of Adidas' remaining Yeezys went on sale Wednesday. At this time, the sneakers appear to be available through Adidas' app Confirmed, according to the retailer's website. Part of the profits will be donated to organizations including the Anti-Defamation League and the Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change, Adidas says. Wednesday's release marks the first time that Adidas has sold Yeezys since the partnership termination in October. The Yeezy products up for sale will include already-existing designs as well as those that were initiated in 2022 and set to be released in 2023, Adidas previously noted. We believe (selling and donating these Yeezys) is the best solution as it respects the created designs and produced shoes, it works for our people, resolves an inventory problem, and will have a positive impact in our communities," Gulden said in an May 19 statement. At a May 11 annual shareholder meeting, Gulden explained the company made the decision to sell and donate Yeezys after speaking with nongovernmental organizations and groups that were harmed by Yes comments and actions. Some details of Adidas' plans are still unclear including how many Yeezys will eventually go on sale and what portion of sales will be donated. The Associated Press reached out to Adidas for further information on Wednesday. Cutting ties with Ye cost Adidas hundreds of millions of dollars contributing to a loss of 600 million euros ($655 million) in sales for the last three months of 2022, which helped drive the company to a quarterly net loss of 513 million euros. Adidas reported 400 million euros ($441 million) in lost sales at the start of 2023, the company announced earlier this month. Net sales declined 1% in the first quarter, to 5.27 billion euros, the company said. It reported a net loss of 24 million euros, a plunge from a profit of 310 million euros in the same period a year ago. Operating profit, which excludes some items like taxes, was down to 60 million euros from 437 million euros a year earlier. Meanwhile, investors also filed a class-action lawsuit against Adidas in late April, alleging the company knew about offensive remarks and harmful behavior from Ye years before terminating its pact with him. Adidas has pushed back on the allegations. _________ AP Business Writer David McHugh in Frankfurt, Germany, and AP Retail Writer Anne DInnocenzio in New York contributed to this report. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Audience members listened to impassioned speeches on the nature of empathy from fellow community members at The Breaking Bread Villages panelist conversation on Tuesday at Grace A. Dow Memorial Library auditorium in Midland. Nearly 100 people attended the event, which also celebrated the foundations third anniversary. Seven panelists, including the organizations founder Erin Patrice, responded to questions on empathy based on their own unique experiences. Questions revolved around tolerance, how to give empathy to others who might not deserve it, and how to feel empathy in oneself. Panelist Joe Cadreau is an Anishinabek social worker who spoke candidly about his struggles with his past and generational trauma. Were all healing from some sort of trauma, he said. Some of us carry a generational trauma. I think once we all understand that were trying to heal from something, I think that makes us a little more tolerant. Another question asked about social medias impact on empathy. Patrice used the example of Ukraine supporters arguing with people online who complained about high gas prices a few months after Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Its selfishness, said panelist Wayne Johnson. There are people who had it worse off than I did (when I was a kid). But as a kid, I thought I had it the worst off in the world. But looking at it now, it molded me into the grown adult that I am." Online harassment through Facebook was something Marci Rogers experienced. For Rogers, her West Texas Facebook friends harassed her when she "whispered anything about politics, she said. The people from West Texas would just go online and go at my throat, she said. "The people I'm associated with here are theater people, and that kind of group of people would be totally the opposite side. I liked having that balance in my life so I could see what was going on, but I didn't like being attacked in any way." Patrice then asked whether personal bias could interrupt empathy, to which the panelists all responded affirmatively. There are too many people out there who are never going to change their minds, Johnson said. I dont show empathy towards people who dont show empathy towards me because of how I live my life. Cadreau turned and gave Johnson a fist bump. You always got an ally in me, brother, Cadreau said as the audience applauded. One audience member stood up to ask a question. He described himself as being originally from Florida and said he grew up in a conservative Christian household which instilled anti-gay marriage ideas in him even though he was in a relationship with another man. He asked the panel whether there were pivotal incidents in their lives that led them to change perspectives and become more empathetic. Panelist Melissa Cockrell responded that she used to be in the foster care system and was unaware how empathy felt until her adoptive mom modeled it. My adoptive mom showed me repeatedly that she was not going anywhere, and it did not matter what I would do, she wasnt going anywhere, Cockrell said. Just her heart and her constant reminder that she doesnt understand where I came from but 'were gonna change it, were gonna get better' that really taught me essentially empathy. Panelist Trel Frazier emphasized change as an important factor. Post-COVID, being active, being fit, that was my lifestyle change, he said. For those people that want to get into a different lifestyle, I empathize with them because its hard. Its tough. Its painful. I always tell them, anybody whos trying to change in any way - just start. Another audience member was the teenage daughter of Marci Rogers, Tansley Rogers, who asked whether there were times in her mothers life when she learned empathy and tolerance from her children. And dont cry! she said to her mom. Marci described how one teacher had a meeting with her and her husband about their son. She literally said, I dont know if hes a genius or if he needs special help, Marci said. I went home crying to my husband and I said, What are we going to do with this? I dont know what to do with this. Finally, we decided wed just go with the genius. But the pandemic wore down some of her family, although her agoraphobia made the pandemic feel delightful" to her. You do have to change when your back is against the wall - grow, learn, and change," Marci said. As the event wound down, audience members said they were intrigued and satisfied by the conversations happening. It was a very rich conversation, said Keri Kenney, a Midland resident. It was nice to see people come in with diverse perspectives. It gives me some hope that we're talking about empathy that might be uncomfortable. Tansley Rogers said how proud she was of her mother for being on the panel. The whole time I was just watching her, wanting her to talk the whole time, she said. "It made me so happy because it's a big step for her." The next live show in The Breaking Bread Village series, on the theme of honesty, will be on Tuesday, Aug. 29, again at Grace A. Dow Library, from 7-9 p.m. Doors open at 6:30. Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-08) recently announced new federal funding to clean up blighted properties throughout Bay City, including the Midland Street Business District. This will help remove public health risks, reduce crime and prepare Bay City neighborhoods for new economic development. Cleaning up blighted properties helps strengthen neighborhoods, reduce crime and increase property values for those who live nearby, Kildee said. I am pleased to have helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help clean up these properties, making way for potential new economic development in Bay City. In Congress, I will continue to secure federal funds to help mid-Michigan communities thrive. 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. BYD Yuan Pro officially hits market, starting at 95,800 yuan On May 31, the 2023 BYD Yuan Pro facelift officially went on sale in the Chinese market, featuring three different trims with prices ranging from 95,800 yuan to 113,800 yuan. The new lineup introduces a vibrant pink exterior color and brings upgrades in terms of details and configurations, enhancing the overall appeal of the Yuan Pro SUV. Photo credit: BYD Mitsubishi extends production suspension in China Mitsubishi Motors plans to extend the production suspension of new vehicles in China beyond June this year, with the reopening date yet to be determined. A spokesperson for Mitsubishi stated that discussions with local partners are ongoing to determine the resumption of vehicle production in China, but specific details regarding the timing of the restart have not been disclosed. Shenzhen XPeng Automotive Technology Co., Ltd. faces business anomalies According to the Chinese corporate database Tianyancha, Shenzhen XPeng Automotive Technology Co., Ltd. has recently been listed on the business anomalies list by the Longhua Bureau of the Market Supervision and Regulation Bureau of Shenzhen for its failure to disclose the 2022 annual report within the specified timeframe. NETA Auto hits 300,000-unit vehicle production mark On May 30, NETA Auto, the Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) maker under HOZON Auto, saw its 300,000th mass-produced vehicle roll off the production line, according to the company's press release. Volkswagen Group to build wholly-owned tech subsidiary in Chinas Hefei city On May 30, Volkswagen Group China ("VGC") signed an agreement with Hefei Economic and Technological Development Area, announcing the plan to set up a wholly-owned technology company in Hefei City, capital of China's Anhui Province. Chinas Anhui Province to set up auto industry chain investment fund worth over 100 billion yuan China's Anhui Province will set up an over 100 billion yuan worth of investment fund for the automotive industry chain, aimed at supporting the construction of internationally influential automotive industry clusters and ensuring the effective implementation of relevant measures. Changan Mazda's CX-50 adopts smart cockpit product from ECARX, Neusoft On May 31, ECARX, a mobility technology company backed by Geely, announced that the customized intelligent cockpit product developed by the company and its partner Neusoft has been successfully installed onto Changan Mazda's CX-50, whose Chinese name is Xingye. GAC AION becomes shareholder of GAC-iFLYTEK joint venture 'SYNCORE' GAC AION, the new energy vehicle arm of GAC Group, has recently completed the equity transfer registration with GAC Capital. Through this transaction, GAC AION has become a strategic investor and new shareholder of SYNCORE. ZongMu Technology, Tsinghua University inaugurate joint research center for intelligent driving system ZongMu Technology, a Chinese autonomous driving solution provider, on May 30 announced its collaboration with the prestigious Tsinghua University in establishing a joint research center for intelligent driver assistance systems. BYD unveils 12-meter-long ebus co-manufactured with Spains Castrosua Chinese leading new energy vehicle maker BYD and Castrosua, a renowned bus bodybuilding specialist, unveiled their first jointly produced eBus during an official presentation ceremony held in Spain on May 29. SAIC Motor plans to make additional investments in solid-state battery company QingTao Energy On May 27, SAIC Motor announced it intends to make additional investments in QingTao (Kunshan) Energy Development Co., Ltd. ("QingTao Energy") through its two investment subsidiaries, as part of efforts to deepen its layout in solid-state battery technology and enhance the competitiveness of its new energy products. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate WASHINGTON (AP) Veering away from a default crisis, the House approved a debt ceiling and budget cuts package late Wednesday, as President Joe Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy assembled a bipartisan coalition of centrist Democrats and Republicans against fierce conservative blowback and progressive dissent. The hard-fought deal pleased few, but lawmakers assessed it was better than the alternative a devastating economic upheaval if Congress failed to act. Tensions ran high throughout the day as hard-right Republicans refused the deal, while Democrats said extremist GOP views were risking a debt default as soon as next week. With an overwhelming House vote, 314-117, the bill now heads to the Senate with passage expected by week's end. McCarthy insisted his party was working to give America hope as he launched into a late evening speech extolling the bill's budget cuts, which he said were needed to curb Washington's runaway spending. Amid deep discontent from Republicans who said the spending restrictions did not go far enough, McCarthy said it is only a first step." The package makes some inroads in curbing the nations debt as Republicans demanded, without rolling back Trump-era tax breaks as Biden wanted. To pass it, Biden and McCarthy counted on support from the political center, a rarity in divided Washington. In a statement released after the vote, Biden said: I have been clear that the only path forward is a bipartisan compromise that can earn the support of both parties. This agreement meets that test. He called the vote good news for the American people and the American economy. Biden had sent top White House officials to the Capitol and called lawmakers directly to shore up backing. McCarthy worked to sell skeptical fellow Republicans, even fending off challenges to his leadership, in the rush to avert a potentially disastrous U.S. default. Swift passage later in the week by the Senate would ensure government checks will continue to go out to Social Security recipients, veterans and others and would prevent financial upheaval at home and abroad. Next Monday is when the Treasury has said the U.S. would run short of money to pay its debts. Overall, the 99-page bill restricts spending for the next two years, suspends the debt ceiling into January 2025 and changes some policies, including imposing new work requirements for older Americans receiving food aid and greenlighting an Appalachian natural gas line that many Democrats oppose. It bolsters funds for defense and veterans, and guts new money for Internal Revenue Service agents. Raising the nation's debt limit, now $31 trillion, ensures Treasury can borrow to pay already incurred U.S. debts. Top GOP deal negotiator Rep. Garret Graves of Louisiana said Republicans were fighting for budget cuts after the past years of extra spending, first during the COVID-19 crisis and later with Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, with its historic investment to fight climate change paid for with revenues elsewhere. But Republican Rep. Chip Roy, a member of the Freedom Caucus helping to lead the opposition, said, My beef is that you cut a deal that shouldnt have been cut. For weeks negotiators labored late into the night to strike the deal with the White House, and for days McCarthy has worked to build support among skeptics. At one point, aides wheeled in pizza at the Capitol the night before the vote as he walked Republicans through the details, fielded questions and encouraged them not to lose sight of the bills budget savings. The speaker has faced a tough crowd. Cheered on by conservative senators and outside groups, the hard-right House Freedom Caucus lambasted the compromise as falling well short of the needed spending cuts, and they vowed to try to halt passage. A much larger conservative faction, the Republican Study Committee, declined to take a position. Even rank-and-file centrist conservatives were unsure, leaving McCarthy searching for votes from his slim Republican majority. Ominously, the conservatives warned of possibly trying to oust McCarthy over the compromise. One influential Republican, former President Donald Trump, held his fire: "It is what it is, he said of the deal in an interview with Iowa radio host Simon Conway. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said it was up to McCarthy to turn out Republican votes in the 435-member House, where 218 votes are needed for approval. As the tally faltered on an afternoon procedural vote, Jeffries stood silently and raised his green voting card, signaling that the Democrats would fill in the gap to ensure passage. They did, advancing the bill that hard-right Republicans, many from the Freedom Caucus, refused to back. Once again, House Democrats to the rescue to avoid a dangerous default, said Jeffries, D-N.Y. What does that say about this extreme MAGA Republican majority? he said about the party aligned with Trumps Make America Great Again political movement. Then, on the final vote hours later, Democrats again ensured passage, leading the tally as 71 Republicans bucked their majority and voted against it. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said the spending restrictions in the package would reduce deficits by $1.5 trillion over the decade, a top goal for the Republicans trying to curb the debt load. In a surprise that complicated Republicans' support, however, the CBO said their drive to impose work requirements on older Americans receiving food stamps would end up boosting spending by $2.1 billion over the time period. That's because the final deal exempts veterans and homeless people, expanding the food stamp rolls by 78,000 people monthly, the CBO said. Liberal discontent, though, ran strong as nearly four dozen Democrats also broke away, decrying the new work requirements for older Americans, those 50-54, in the food aid program. Some Democrats were also incensed that the White House negotiated into the deal changes to the landmark National Environmental Policy Act and approval of the controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline natural gas project. The energy development is important to Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., but many others oppose it as unhelpful in fighting climate change. On Wall Street, stock prices were down. In the Senate, Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell are working for passage by week's end. Schumer warned there is no room for error." Senators, who have remained largely on the sidelines during much of the negotiations, are insisting on amendments to reshape the package. But making any changes at this stage seemed unlikely with so little time to spare before Monday's deadline. ___ AP White House Correspondent Zeke Miller and AP writers Mary Clare Jalonick, Seung Min Kim and Jill Colvin and video journalist Nathan Ellgren contributed to this report. DETROIT (AP) A lawsuit can go forward against a Michigan official who flashed a rifle during a public meeting over video conference, a federal appeals court said Wednesday. Patricia MacIntosh is suing Ron Clous, alleging he tried to silence her right to free speech when he displayed the rifle during a 2021 meeting of Grand Traverse County commissioners. Clous has no governmental immunity at this stage of the litigation, the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said in a 2-1 opinion. Virtually smirking and displaying a high-powered rifle at someone during a tension-filled public meeting is pregnant with dangerous meaning, said judges Jane Stranch and Stephanie Dawkins Davis. The incident occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic when the county board met over video conference. During the public comment period, MacIntosh urged commissioners to make a statement opposing anti-government militia groups, a few weeks after the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. That's when Clous, a commissioner who was participating from home, left the screen and returned with a rifle. In response to the lawsuit, an attorney for Clous argued that displaying the rifle was his own expressive conduct protected by the Constitution. But the appeals court said it could be considered an adverse action. Clous didn't seek reelection in 2022 and is no longer a county commissioner. In a dissent, Judge Jeffrey Sutton said no legal precedent fits to keep MacIntosh's free speech retaliation lawsuit alive. Think of what happened, he said. A side view of Commissioner Clouss lawfully possessed rifle. In that officials own home. For a few seconds. During a virtual Board of Commissioners meeting. With everyone participating from the safety of their own homes. ___ Follow Ed White at http://twitter.com/edwritez This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) Chile's state-owned copper mining giant Codelco on Wednesday shut down its Ventanas copper smelter after decades of polluting Quintero Bay with toxic gases and turning it, along with 15 other companies, into what environmentalists called a sacrifice zone. Eight years ago, the Chilean government declared that the three municipalities surrounding the bay Quintero, Puchuncavi, and Concon, located 160 kilometers northwest of the Chilean capital were saturated with fine particulate matter, inhalation of which is associated with discomfort and respiratory ailments. During a formal ceremony held on Wednesday in Puchuncavi, images of flames from the smelters furnace were shown gradually diminishing until they were fully extinguished, marking the closure of the copper smelter 59 years after its founding. A Codelco refinery will continue to operate at the site. The latest mass intoxication by pollution in the region took place only a week ago and affected nearly 100 students who suffered intoxication due to the poor air quality. An environmental alert is still in effect. The more than 50,000 inhabitants of the bay regularly breathe in sulfur dioxide, a toxic and corrosive gas that, when inhaled, causes irritation to the nose, eyes, and throat. More than 60% of the total sulfur dioxide emissions in the area came from the state-owned smelter, President Gabriel Boric said last year when he announced its closure. Matias Asun, director of Greenpeace Chile, said that while the closure of Ventanas is a very important step, he added that we still need to see what we'll do with the entire industrial belt that was generated around the smelter. The oldest company in the region is an oil terminal belonging to the state-owned National Petroleum Company, established in 1954. That was followed a decade later by the Codelco smelter and refinery and several steam and coal-fired power plants. David Boyd, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Environment, said during a recent visit to the region that he smelled the toxic fumes and felt them in my throat. Pollution incidents in the area notably began to decrease in 2019 when emissions from the industrial belt began to be regulated. UNITED NATIONS (AP) The U.N. Security Council encouraged Iraqs recently formed government to deliver on reforms and combat corruption in a resolution adopted unanimously Tuesday that backs the countrys ongoing fight against the Islamic State, al-Qaida and other terrorist groups. The resolution, which extends the U.N. political mission in Iraq for a year, welcomes last Octobers confirmation by Iraqs Council of Representatives of a new government and Cabinet led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani after a more than year-long political stalemate that was punctuated by outbreaks of street violence. Twenty years after the U.S. invasion toppled longtime dictator Saddam Hussein and divided the unified country in the heart of the Arab world, Iraq is still seeking stability. In 2014, lslamic State fighters seized Iraqi cities and declared a self-styled caliphate in a large swath of territory in Syria and Iraq. The group was formally declared defeated in Iraq in 2017 following a three-year bloody battle that left tens of thousands dead and cities in ruins, but its sleeper cells continue to stage attacks in different parts of the country. The upheaval between 2003 and 2023 killed about 300,000 Iraqis along with more than 8,000 U.S. military, contractors and civilians. The resolution supports Iraq in addressing the challenges it faces as it continues its stabilization efforts including in fighting the Islamic State, al-Qaida and their affiliates and ensuring that international human rights and humanitarian law are observed. It also backs Iraqs continuing recovery, reconstruction and reconciliation. The council encouraged al-Sudanis government not only to deliver on reforms and tackle corruption but to protect and respect the human rights of all Iraqis, promote accountability for rights violations, deliver essential services, diversify the oil-dependent economy, create jobs, improve governance, combat climate change and strengthen the security sector. U.N. special envoy for Iraq Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert told the council on May 18 that the past 20 years have been a very rough road, but the new government has shown resolve to tackle a number of pressing issues. That said, it is early days, and we do not have a crystal ball to predict the unknowns, which could include the rise of potential disrupters, she said. Any government in this position needs time but the harsh reality is that there is no time to lose. Hennis-Plasschaert emphasized the need for all political actors to put national interests ahead of individual or party interests, and to support independent state institutions and an active, empowered and protected civic space. She stressed that the healthy interplay of opposition and coalition must be allowed to function and urged passage of a federal budget to provide funds to turn some government goals into realities including delivering public services. The good news is that the government has taken an express stance against the adverse effects of corruption, which stem from the system as constructed over the past two decades, she said. And, yes, vested interests will make the required systemic reform undoubtedly an uphill struggle. But it must be done. The resolution, adopted by a 15-0 vote, extends the political mission known as UNAMI that Hennis-Plasschaert heads until May 31, 2024. It says her top priority is to provide advice, support and assistance to the Iraqi government on advancing political dialogue that is inclusive, and reconciliation at the national and community level. UNAMI should also advise, support and assist Iraqs Independent High Electoral Commission and other institutions to strengthen electoral preparations, including for provincial elections and parliamentary elections in the Kurdistan region and it should help the governments review of the constitution and security sector reform efforts. TO THE EDITOR: Sadly, we continue our national decline and the decline of many of our major cities because of self-induced failed policies at both the federal and, in some cases, the local level. The number of illegal immigrants has increased dramatically. The most recent estimate is there have been 1.5 million "gotaways" since Biden became President. That means we don't know who they are or where they are. One thing we can be sure of is we, as taxpayers, are paying all the costs of enabling these illegal immigrants to come into our country and to stay here. Crime in many of our major cities continues to soar. In some cities like Baltimore, Seattle, New York, St. Louis, Chicago, Philadelphia, Portland and Los Angeles crime has gotten so bad small business owners and even major companies are fleeing in large numbers. People are also fleeing these and other cities in large numbers. (5.3 percent of New York City's population left in just 27 months. San Francisco lost 7.5 percent of its population during that same period). Recent revelations from the 305-page Durham Report documents what most of us have known all along. It outlines the corrupt actions of the leadership of the FBI and DOJ in attacking certain individuals and classes of people while protecting others who have engaged in illegal activities. An additional insult is none of them will be held accountable. People who should get jail time won't even get a reprimand. One bright spot (maybe the only bright spot) is what happened when the woke senior marketing executives at Bud Light thought it wise to put a man who acts like a fake girl on one of their beer cans. Many Bud drinkers said "enough." The result is a 26 percent decrease in their sales and a $6 billion hit to their share value. It should be a wake-up call to all companies which lose their way as to why they are in business and engage in woke nonsense. Increasingly, DEI appears to stand for Division, Entitlement and Intimidation. Biden's inane comments about white supremacy being our No. 1 national threat is designed to divide us and deflect from the real threats to our nation. It is similar to Putin's statements there are a lot of Nazis in Ukraine. Hence his excuse for invading and attempting to destroy them. When Jordan Donica was about 9 or 10, his aunt took him to New York City with a mission: Get the notion of making it on Broadway out of his system Juba, South Sudan (PANA) - Human rights advocate, Amnesty International, has hailed the decision of the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday to extend the arms embargo on South Sudan for a year Nairobi, Kenya (PANA) - Nearly two months since a series of nationwide protests began, the Kenyan authorities have failed to take sufficient action to hold police officers and their commanders to account for killings and attacks on protesters and other people, Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International Kenya said on Wednesday China's monthly registrations of locally-made passenger vehicles (PVs) reached 1,559,259 units in Apr. 2023, surging 60.9% from the previous year, but edging down 2.5% from the previous month, according to the data compiled by Gasgoo Auto Research Institute (GARI). The year-on-year spike in the Apr. registrations was mainly due to the low base for the year-ago period where the epidemic led to disruption across the automotive supply chain. The growing demands for travel during the May Day holiday boosted car purchases in April, continuing the stable trend from the end of Mar. Besides, the Auto Shanghai 2023 held in Apr. also served as a powerful platform and booster for promoting domestic car consumption. For the first four months of this year, there were 5,654,592 homemade PVs registered across the Chinese mainland, representing a tiny drop of 1.16% year-over-year. In Apr. 2023, three brands saw their monthly PV registrations in China exceed 100,000 units, namely, Volkswagen, BYD, and Toyota. The two Chinas indigenous brandsChangan and Geely, ranked 5th and 6th among all brands by Apr. PV registrations, following Honda, who got 83,820 vehicles registered. The German trio BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi ranked 8th, 9th, and 10th, respectively, by Apr. China-made PV registrations. In the same period, Tesla had 40,712 Shanghai-made vehicles registered in China. The 14th to 19th places were all occupied by Chinese indigenous brands, namely, AION, HAVAL, Chery, Trumpchi, Li Auto, and Hongqi. As for the Jan.-Apr. registrations, BYD outshone other brands in China, outselling the runner-up Volkswagen by 17,116 vehicles. The three major Japanese brandsToyota, Honda, and Nissanstood at the 3rd, 5th, and 11th places, respectively. Among all China-made PV models, the Qin PLUS DM-i ranked highest by Apr. registrations. Teslas Model Y dropped one spot from a month earlier to the 2nd place in Apr., and it was also honored the best-selling SUV model. Notably, on the top 10 PV models list by Apr. registrations, BYDs Dolphin, Yuan PLUS, and Song PLUS DM-i all took a place, demonstrating their popularity in respective segments. In the rankings of the top 20 homemade PV models by Apr. registrations, there were 9 new energy vehicle (NEV) models, 7 of which were battery electric vehicle (BEV) models. As for the year-to-date performance, the Model Y was crowned the highest-ranking PV model in China, and it was also the only model that got over 1000,000 vehicles registered through the first four months. Among cities on the Chinese mainland, Shanghai and Beijing took the two first seats by Apr. registrations, and both of them had over 50,000 domestically-built PVs registered in the month. Chengdu recorded a monthly registration volume of 48,053 units, becoming the second runner-up among all cities. For the Jan.-Apr. period, a total of eleven cities had over 100,000 locally-made PVs registered each, of which the first three ones volumes all surpassed 150,000 units. In Apr. 2023, China's monthly locally-made new energy passenger vehicle (NEPV) registrations came in at 489,466 units, soaring 86.74% year on year, but sliding 8.97% month on month. For the first four months of this year, the cumulative NEPV registrations in China jumped 35.24% over the prior-year period to 1,712,538 units. By specific powertrain solutions, the battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sector logged a registration volume of 330,466 units in Apr., accounting for 67.52% of the country's total NEPV registrations. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) registrations reached 158,985 units, which included 40,220 range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs). There were 15 fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) registered on the Chinese mainland in Apr. Nevertheless, its market share was hereby omitted due to its tiny quantity. Of the NEPVs registered in the first four months of this year, 68.25% were contributed by BEVs. With respect to the NEPV registrations in Apr., BYD still took a remarkable lead over other brands. It had 167,730 NEPVs registered in the month, which were even more than the sum of the No.2-No.8 occupants. The U.S. EV brand Tesla was credited the runner-up, while AION and Wuling ranked 3rd and 4th, respectively. Li Auto was the highest-ranking Chinese NEV startup by Apr. registrations. Besides, NETA was another startup-owned brand to crack the top 10 brands list by Apr. NEPV registrations. DENZA, a premium auto brand majority-owned by BYD, ranked ninth among all brands with a NEPV registration volume of 9,655 units. In terms of the year-to-date NEPV registrations, the top four brandsBYD, Tesla, AION, and Wulingall witnessed their cumulative registration volume surpass 100,000 units. With regard to Apr. registrations, the Qin PLUS DM-i topped other homemade NEPV models. On the top 20 NEPV models list, there were 10 under BYD brand, 5 of which entered the top 10 rankings. The DENZA D9, which ranked 17th, was from a BYD-backed brand as well. Notably, the Wuling Binguo, a small-sized all-electric city car hitting the market at the end of March, recorded a registration volume of 14,781 units in Apr., which were even more than that of the Model 3. Judging from the Jan.-Apr. performance, there were six NEPV models in total whose respective cumulative registrations all exceeded 80,000 units. In Apr. 2023, Shanghai outdid other cities with 23,089 homemade NEPVs registered, which accounted for 42.41% of the city's overall PV registrations. It was closely followed by Guangzhou and Shenzhen. During this years first four months, there were 12 cities on the Chinese mainland with over 30,000 domestically built NEPVs registered each. Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - Fifteen officers from military combat units and specialists in international humanitarian law from the Libyan Army took part in a workshop on the application of international humanitarian law organized by the Libyan Ministry of Defence in cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Sappi Employees Recognized for Contributions to Industry Advancing Endeavors in Paper and Packaging Beth Cormier, VP - Research, Development & Sustainability at Sappi North America. Beth Cormier, VP - Research, Development & Sustainability at Sappi North America. May 31, 2023 - Sappi North America announced that several of its employees have received awards for their endeavors in creative graphics, leadership and innovative initiatives. The Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI) awarded Beth Cormier, VP of research, development and sustainability, a Women in Industry Division's 2023 Woman of the Year Award; recognized Joseph Fernandez, research fellow, with the 2023 Coating & Graphic Arts Division Technical Award and BASF Charles W. Engelhard Medallion and Honorarium; and bestowed Matthew Howard, area process systems manager, with the TAPPI Award for Best Process Control Paper. Additionally, David Niles, senior print and converting scientist, received the Michael H. Bruno award from the Technical Association of Graphic Arts (TAGA). "Over the years, Sappi has reached impressive heights in R&D, sustainability and employee well-being which would not be possible without the integral contributions of our employees," said Mike Haws, CEO of Sappi North America. "We proudly boast their award wins as they truly are well deserved and indicative of the dedication they bring to work each day." TAPPI's Women in Industry Division recognizes women in leadership that have had an impact on their peers, communities and the paper and pulp industry. Beth Cormier, a 35-year veteran at Sappi, has not only exemplified a commitment to sustainability but has remained a true leader and mentor to her colleagues. She has championed initiatives advancing Sappi's strides to decarbonize and efforts to develop more renewable solutions for the paper and packaging markets. For over two decades, Joe Fernandez has been a leader of innovative research initiatives for Sappi's Mills to streamline product development, process optimization and more. Joe's TAPPI Coating & Graphic Arts Division Technical Award and BASF Charles W. Engelhard Medallion and Honorarium commemorates his exceptional contributions and accomplishments which have driven the needle on industry technological advancement. Matthew Howard received the TAPPI Process Control Subdivision Best Paper award for his 2022 research paper, "Where did that Transmitter Come From? A Foray into Feedforward Control," which he accepted at the 2023 TAPPICon. Matt's presentation at TAPPICon focused on an engineer's journey of learning and applying feedforward control concepts through trial, error and project work at the Somerset Mill. Joining an elite group of graphic arts professionals, David Niles won TAGA's prestigious Michael H. Bruno Award which is only bestowed upon select individuals in the industry in recognition of their contributions to pioneer advancements in graphic arts around the globe. Sappi North America, headquartered in Boston, is a market leader in converting wood fiber into superior products that customers demand worldwide. Its four diversified businesses high-quality Graphic Papers, Dissolving Pulp, Packaging, and Specialty Papers deliver premium products and services with consistent quality and reliability. SOURCE: Sappi North America, Inc. Photo: (Photo : Photo by Eva Marie Uzcategui/Getty Images) Late on Memorial Day, a dispute between two groups escalated into a shooting along the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk in Florida, leaving nine people injured, including children, according to police reports. According to Deanna Bettineschi, public information manager for the Hollywood Police Department, authorities have apprehended one person of interest and are currently looking for another suspect who has escaped custody. According to CNN, four children, including one between the ages of 15 and 18 months, who were shot among the fatalities ranged in age from 1 to 17. Additionally hurt were five adults, ages 25 to 65. Except for the sufferer who is having surgery, all of the patients are now in stable condition, according to Bettineschi. Hollywood Beach Mayor Expresses Outrage Over Shooting and Calls for Enhanced Safety Measures Hollywood Beach Mayor Josh Levy expressed deep sadness and anger over the incident, emphasizing that innocent bystanders were harmed as a result of the altercation between the two groups. During a press conference, Levy condemned the reckless actions that endangered the public's safety, particularly given the presence of thousands of beachgoers enjoying the holiday weekend with their families. According to CBS News, the senseless act of violence that took place on our cherished Hollywood Beach saddened and infuriated us, Mayor Levy said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We will not tolerate such acts of violence in our community. We must work together to enhance public safety measures and ensure that our residents and visitors can enjoy our beautiful beach without fear." As the investigation into the shooting continues, local authorities have urged residents to avoid the affected area. Additionally, the police have requested that anyone who captured video footage or photographs of the incident submit them to pdvideorequest@hollywoodfl.org, hoping the evidence will aid in their investigation. Read Also: Michigan State University Deadly Shooting Kills 3 Students, 5 Injured Hollywood Beach Shooting Sparks Community Outcry, Calls for Safer Public Spaces The most recent gun incident has shook Hollywood Beach, which is well-known for its scenic promenade and lively atmosphere. The event shook the neighborhood and sparked worries about public safety and the requirement for improved measures to provide a secure environment for locals and guests. According to ABC News, the Memorial Day shooting serves as a sobering reminder of the value of encouraging a sense of security in public areas. It has sparked talks about putting all-encompassing safety measures in place to stop such mindless acts of violence. The shooting incident has shaken the neighborhood and brought attention to the necessity for ongoing measures to deal with and stop acts of violence. The pursuit of the remaining suspects and their prosecution by law enforcement is a top priority. Following this terrible incident, there will probably be conversations regarding public safety and steps to guarantee a secure environment for locals and tourists. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the value of creating a feeling of security in public areas so that people may congregate there without being afraid of such senseless acts of violence. The Hollywood Police Department invites anybody with knowledge about the event to come forward and help law enforcement in their attempts to provide closure to the victims and their families as the investigation moves ahead. The neighborhood is unified in its condemnation of acts of violence and is still dedicated to cooperating for everyone's safety and wellbeing while they make use of Hollywood Beach's splendor and facilities. Related Article: Mass Shooting at Texas Outlet Mall Leaves Three Children Dead Photo: (Photo : Max Fischer from Pexels) In the realm of education, worksheets have long been a popular tool for reinforcing concepts and facilitating practice. When it comes to homework assignments, worksheets serve as an efficient and effective method for students to engage with the material and demonstrate their understanding. One such example is the use of definitions worksheets - StoryboardThat offers customizable templates that can be tailored to any subject matter. In this article, we will explore the advantages of utilizing worksheets for homework assignments, providing practical examples and tips for designing effective worksheets to meet specific learning needs. What are Worksheets in the Context of Homework Assignments? Worksheets, in the context of homework assignments, are structured sets of problems or questions designed to help students practice and apply specific skills or concepts learned in class. They can be used across various subjects and educational levels, ranging from elementary school to higher education. Worksheets can take many forms, including fill-in-the-blank exercises, multiple-choice questions, short answer prompts, and even more complex analytical tasks. The Purpose and Effectiveness of Worksheets for Homework Assignments The primary purpose of using worksheets for homework assignments is to reinforce the material taught in class, providing students with opportunities to practice, apply, and deepen their understanding of the concepts. When designed effectively, worksheets can offer several benefits: Active engagement: Worksheets require students to actively engage with the material, promoting deeper understanding and long-term retention. Immediate feedback : By completing worksheets, students can identify areas where they need improvement and adjust their learning strategies accordingly. Self-paced learning: Worksheets allow students to work at their own speed, giving them the flexibility to revisit challenging concepts as needed. Differentiated instruction: Educators can create customized worksheets tailored to individual students' needs and abilities, ensuring that all learners are adequately supported. Consistency and structure: Worksheets provide a consistent and structured format for homework assignments, making it easier for students to organize their work and manage their time effectively. Designing and Creating Effective Worksheets for Different Types of Assignments Creating effective worksheets that cater to various types of assignments requires careful planning, creativity, and an understanding of the learning objectives. Here are some guidelines and strategies for designing engaging and purposeful worksheets for different types of assignments: Language Arts Assignments For language arts assignments, worksheets can be designed to target specific skills such as vocabulary development, reading comprehension, or grammar practice. Some ideas for creating effective language arts worksheets include: Cloze exercises: Remove words from a text and ask students to fill in the blanks using context clues. Vocabulary matching: Provide a list of vocabulary words and their definitions, and ask students to match them. Reading comprehension questions: Create a series of questions related to a text that require students to analyze and interpret the information. Mathematics Assignments Mathematics worksheets should provide opportunities for students to practice various concepts and problem-solving strategies. Consider the following tips for designing effective math worksheets: Scaffolded problems: Present problems in increasing levels of difficulty, allowing students to build their confidence and skills gradually. Word problems: Include real-world scenarios that require students to apply their mathematical knowledge to solve problems. Conceptual understanding: Design questions that encourage students to explain their reasoning and demonstrate their understanding of mathematical concepts. Science Assignments Science worksheets can be used to reinforce concepts, promote scientific inquiry, and develop critical thinking skills. Some suggestions for creating effective science worksheets include: Graphic organizers: Use diagrams, charts, or concept maps to help students visualize complex processes or relationships between concepts. Data analysis: Provide sets of data and ask students to interpret the information, draw conclusions, and make predictions. Experiment design: Challenge students to design their own experiments or investigations to explore scientific phenomena. Social Studies Assignments Social studies worksheets should encourage students to analyze historical events, evaluate sources, and develop an understanding of diverse perspectives. To create effective social studies worksheets, consider the following ideas: Primary source analysis: Present students with primary source documents and ask them to analyze and evaluate the information. Timeline activities: Provide a series of events and ask students to organize them chronologically, identifying cause-and-effect relationships. Compare and contrast: Encourage students to analyze different perspectives or historical interpretations by comparing and contrasting viewpoints. Adapting Worksheets to Meet Specific Learning Needs To meet the diverse learning needs of students, worksheets can be adapted or modified in various ways. For instance, educators can: Adjust the difficulty level: Create multiple versions of the same worksheet with varying difficulty levels, catering to students with different abilities and providing appropriate challenges. Incorporate visuals and multimedia: Utilize images, diagrams, videos, or audio recordings to support visual and auditory learners. Provide scaffolding: Offer additional support or guidance for students who may struggle with certain concepts, such as hints, examples, or step-by-step instructions. Allow for choice: Give students the option to choose from a selection of tasks or questions, allowing them to engage with the material in a way that best suits their interests and learning preferences. Conclusion In summary, utilizing worksheets for homework assignments offers numerous benefits, from promoting active engagement to providing differentiated instruction. By designing and creating effective worksheets that align with learning objectives and cater to specific learning needs, educators can help students deepen their understanding of the material and improve their academic performance. Photo: (Photo : David Jensen/Getty Images) In a shocking incident over Memorial Day Weekend, a mob of San Clemente teenagers in California attacked three U.S. Marines who were off-duty and enjoying time at the beach. However, justice will prevail as the law enforcement authorities have promised to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions, according to a statement provided to Fox News on Tuesday. The Marine Corps personnel had approached a group of teenagers and politely requested that they stop setting off fireworks due to the debris hitting them. In a sudden turn of events, a mob of almost 40 people brutally attacked the Marines and repeatedly trampled them. According to LA Times, the severity of the attack left the city's mayor, Chris Duncan, expressing his "total disgust and shock" and emphasizing that such incidents were unheard of in San Clemente. Orange County Sergeant Promises Accountability for Perpetrators of Marine Assault Mayor Duncan, a Democrat, assured the public that swift action would be taken to ensure such incidents never recur in their safe and supportive city, which is also known as a military town. Speaking to "America Reports," he emphasized the city's commitment to supporting the troops, particularly the Marines, and expressed determination to bring the attackers to justice. When speaking about the tragedy, Orange County Sergeant Mike Woodroof reassured the American people that authorities were diligently looking into the attack's circumstances. Whether the culprits were adults or minors, they would still be subject to legal consequences for their part in this heinous event. Sgt. Woodroof emphasized that charges of felony assault with a dangerous weapon will be brought because of the seriousness of the incident, which entailed kicking another person in the head with the intent to hurt and causing internal injuries. According to NY Post, identification and detention of those accused of carrying out the attack on the Marines would be the first stage of the inquiry. Sgt. Woodroof emphasized the importance of this crucial piece of publicly disseminated video footage. The terrifying moments when the two Marines were attacked are seen in this video. Additionally, he indicated that there were other films, including local CCTV footage, that would help identify the attackers. Furthermore, despite the fact that the event was caught on a separate camera, he disclosed that a third Marine had suffered injuries. Read Also: Oregon Father, Who Grows Up with Guns, Surrenders AR-15 Rifle for Cops to Destroy San Clemente Rallies Around Marine Community, Demands Justice for Assaulted Servicemen The victims and the community at large have hope thanks to the law enforcement officials' dedication to prosecuting the perpetrators. Given that the assault occurred during Memorial Day Weekend, a time when the town celebrates and supports the military troops, the act has not only astonished but also greatly grieved the people of San Clemente. The city and its citizens are unwavering in their resolve to safeguard the safety of their military community while the inquiry goes on. The prompt response by local authorities and law enforcement demonstrates their unwavering opposition to such violent crimes and commitment to upholding the values of justice and respect for those who have served in the armed forces. The San Clemente mob assault on the U.S. Marines has caused fury and anxiety among the locals. Authorities are determined to bring the offenders responsible for their horrible deeds to justice nonetheless. The objective of the continuing inquiry is to identify and apprehend those guilty in order to bring about justice for the victims and the community at large. Related Article: Teen Marine Recruit Dies at Camp Pendleton After Collapsing During Training Photo: (Photo : KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI / Getty Images) The Manchester School District in New Hampshire has recently come under scrutiny after allocating COVID-19 relief funds for a youth pride event that includes a drag performance. The decision to use taxpayer money for the event has sparked controversy and raised questions about the appropriate use of relief funds. While some argue that the event supports LGBTQ+ students and fosters inclusivity, others question whether it aligns with the intended purpose of the funds. Allocation of COVID-19 Relief Funds for Pride Event Raises Concerns According to The Daily Wire, the Manchester School District received $4,000 from Manchester's Community Event and Activation Grant Program, which is funded through the American Rescue Plan. These funds were intended to aid in the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing public health, economic disparities, and educational challenges. However, the decision to allocate a portion of these funds for a youth pride event has generated controversy. Manchester School District Superintendent Jennifer Gillis defended the allocation, emphasizing that the event is voluntary and aligns with the district's strategic plan and policies. She stated that the event serves as an after-school, extracurricular activity, allowing LGBTQ+ students to feel loved, celebrated, and centered. School Board Member Jim O'Connell also expressed support, highlighting the importance of inclusivity for LGBTQ+ students. However, not everyone shares this viewpoint. Questions Raised about Appropriateness and Use of Taxpayer Funds According to the NH Journal, critics, including New Hampshire Department of Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut, questioned the decision to use COVID-19 relief funds for the pride event. Edelblut, a Republican, expressed concerns about whether this was the best use of taxpayer money. While the Manchester School District argues that the event promotes inclusivity, some question whether these funds could have been better utilized to address other pressing needs arising from the pandemic. The controversy surrounding the allocation of funds intensified when it was revealed that the event's projected total cost was $6,000, with only $4,000 coming from the American Rescue Plan. This raised further questions about how the remaining funds would be covered and whether the event was appropriately planned within the given budget. Read Also: Nashville Pastor Opens Up About Grief After Losing 9-Year-Old Daughter To Covenant School Shooting Contention Surrounds LGBTQ+ Rights, Parental Involvement, and COVID-19 Relief Funding In a separate development, the New Hampshire House voted to defeat a parental notification bill that had previously passed in the GOP-dominated Senate. As reported by the Associated Press, the bill aimed to establish a mechanism for parents to be informed about their minor children's well-being, educational progress, and any use of a different name or gender identity within public schools. The controversy surrounding the allocation of relief funds for the Pride event and the defeat of the parental notification bill has intensified debates on LGBTQ+ rights, parental involvement in schools, and the appropriate use of taxpayer money. The proper allocation of their remaining COVID-19 funds remains in discussion for everyone receiving them, as the Biden administration recently ended the national emergency for the pandemic. The Manchester School District and the New Hampshire legislature face the ongoing challenge of addressing the concerns raised by various stakeholders. These controversies highlight the complex and delicate balance that needs to be struck in creating inclusive and supportive educational environments while addressing broader pandemic-related challenges. Related Article: U.S. Coast Guard Concludes Search for Louisiana Teen Who Went Overboard in Bahamas Cruise Photo: (Photo : JEWEL SAMAD/AFP via Getty Images) Aderrien Murry, an 11-year-old boy who called 911 for assistance before a Mississippi police officer shot him in the chest, spoke with CNN about his harrowing experience. Aderrien revealed that he began praying and singing after being shot, as he believed those were his last moments alive. While his mother applied pressure to his wound, Aderrien sang the gospel song "No Weapon Formed Against Me Shall Prosper" and asked her to apologize to his family and teacher for his actions. Despite the severity of his injuries, Aderrien credits his prayers for saving his life. However, he still struggles with the haunting thoughts of what could have happened. According to NY Times, the young boy shared that he often envisions himself lying in a coffin, a persistent thought that lingers during the night. Additionally, he sometimes feels as though he is being watched, but his main concern revolves around his own mortality. 11-Year-Old Victim of Police Shooting Speak About Pain and Recovery Nearly ten days after the incident, Aderrien continues to experience pain in various parts of his body and has difficulty breathing. Activities such as running and jumping have become challenging. Nevertheless, he remains grateful to be alive and believes that God has a plan for him, even if he has yet to discover it. According to CNN, the shooting occurred when an Indianola Police Department officer responded to a domestic disturbance call at Aderrien's home. The officer, identified as Greg Capers, shot the young boy in the chest. The incident is currently under investigation by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation. Following the shooting, the Indianola Board of Aldermen placed Capers on paid administrative leave. Aderrien's mother, Nakala Murry, had requested police assistance after the father of her child arrived at her home in an agitated state. Aderrien informed the 911 operator that the man did not possess a gun, and his mother reiterated this information to the police upon their arrival. However, when Aderrien complied with the police's commands to come out with his hands up, he was shot. The child was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he underwent emergency medical procedures. He suffered a collapsed lung, fractured ribs, and a lacerated liver. Aderrien has since been released from the hospital but continues to endure physical pain. Read Also: Unarmed 13-Year-Old Boy Shot By Chicago Police May Become Permanently Paralyzed Family Files $5 Million Lawsuit Following Shooting of 11-Year-Old by Officer Carlos Moore, the attorney representing Aderrien and his mother, expressed shock at the incident, questioning how a trained officer could shoot an unarmed 11-year-old who had obeyed their commands. Moore has filed a lawsuit seeking $5 million in federal court, alleging excessive force, negligence, reckless endangerment, and civil assault and battery, among other charges. Aderrien, hoping to understand why he was shot, wants the officer responsible to be terminated from his position. According to USA Today, the incident has had a significant impact on his perception of the police, and he frequently feels uneasy when by himself in dark spaces. Nakala Murry, grateful for her son's survival, demands justice and better training for police officers, including the firing of Capers. The mayor of Indianola, Ken Featherstone, has called for a fair examination of all the facts before making any decisions regarding Capers' employment status. He has not yet seen the body camera footage and has not had the opportunity to speak with Capers. The city faces a lawsuit seeking justice for Aderrien's traumatic experience and the implementation of necessary changes to prevent similar incidents in the future. As the investigation continues, Aderrien and his family seek both peace and justice, aiming to heal from this traumatic incident and ensure accountability for the actions taken by the police. Related Article: Black Mississippi Teen Dies Days After Being Shot in the Head by Police The hype surrounding all things AI is off the charts at the moment and more so since Nvidia's quarterly financial announcement. Nvidia Corp on Tuesday became the first chipmaker to join the trillion-dollar club, as the company bets on a surge in demand for its AI chips that power chatbot sensation ChatGPT and many other applications. AI took centre stage after Nvidia stunned investors with a revenue forecast last week that surpassed analysts' expectations by more than 50%. "Nvidia is the poster child for AI at the moment," said Thomas Hayes, chairman at Great Hill Capital. "The market is coming to terms with if this AI trend is real." Even though it's not an Apple driven trend, it will engulf all computer makers in designing a next-generation of PC's. It's a trend that Patently Apple will follow closely for interesting news while trying to stay clear of pure hype. The first report on a new kind of PC came from HP yesterday. HP Inc. CEO Enrique Lores says consumers and businesses are poised to see big changes to their computers within 24 months due to new advances in artificial intelligence. "What we are working on is to build AI capabilities into the PC," Lores told analysts on a late Tuesday earnings call. "So, consumers or professionals will be able to run AI applications at the edge and will not have to run them on the cloud." "The benefit this will bring is that if you're a small company and you want to use some of your private data in an AI application, you will not have to upload it, you will be able to run it locally. And also there will be advantages in cost and advantages in latency," he said. Lores added HP is working closely with chipmakers to integrate to new AI designs into its computers. "There's going to be a significant change. Customers will start seeing some of these solutions available in 2024 about 12 months, 20 months from now, and it's going to be a huge opportunity to really bring energy to the category," Lores explained. For more, read the full Yahoo! Finance report. Gizchina added that "HP is set to release a new category of PCs with a revolutionary architecture that will enable users to work with artificial intelligence (AI) systems. The new architecture will allow for the processing of data analysis locally, ensuring the security of sensitive information. HP has partnered with AMD, NVIDIA, and Qualcomm in developing this new platform. The new category of PCs will be available soon, and they will redefine what a PC is." Yesterday in an interview with CNBC's Jim Cramer, HP CEO Enrique Lores said the company is creating AI-enabled PCs that will allow customers to build spreadsheets and analyze data in record time. Instead of analysts spending hours poring over figures, AI will be able to create spreadsheets, analyze data and even dialogue about its findings in seconds. These new models could hit the market as early as 2024. I have been in this industry for many, many years, Jim, Lores told Cramer. I have never seen an opportunity like this, to really drive innovation and drive new type of customer needs that we really think are going to be fundamental. Below is a video of the interview. HP's CEO made a case for AI for PCs in the enterprise market but left us wondering what they could be working on for consumer PCs. Whether these so-called "revolutionary" PC's will offer substantive value to consumers or just a series of gimmicky AI apps is unknown at this time. Is the PC industry trying to revive interest in desktops and notebooks by driving this AI hype that will require high-end processors and graphics or will it truly upend the market like Apple's iPhone did when a true smartphone was first introduced? While it may be too early to form an opinion on something that's 'coming,' what is your initial knee-jerk reaction to the coming AI revolution in PCs? Send in your comments below or on our Twitter feed. The President of the International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation Gunay Afandiyeva and the State Secretary of the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, MP Tamas Menczer have discussed prospects of cooperation. During the meeting, Gunay Afandiyeva provided insight into events and international projects launched by the foundation to promote the ancient Turkic culture, involving member and observer states of the organization, Azernews reports. Gunay Afandiyeva emphasized the importance of ongoing integration processes between Turkic states and organizations. She recalled her visit to the European Capital of Culture Veszprem in January of this year, and noted that relations were strengthened with the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the City of Shusha, the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World and Veszprem this year. The foundation also touched upon the preparation of "Anthology of Hungarian Writers" and promotion of works of Bela Bartok, Miklos Radnoti and other prominent personalities within the framework of cooperation with Hungary, an observer member state of the organization. The State Secretary of the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Tamas Menczer expressed his gratitude regarding the organization of the promotion of Hungarian music and literature on the global stage, and noted that they are always ready to provide support in this direction. Calling Hungary the door to Europe for the Turkic World, Tamas Menczer stressed the importance of partnership with the Turkic states, the cooperation between Veszprem, the European Capital of Culture and Shusha, the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World. At the meeting, discussions were held on the expansion of cooperation between the Foundation and Hungary, as well as other issues of mutual interest. Initiated in 2012, the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation focuses on the preservation of the Turkic heritage in member countries as well as conducting projects in collaboration with partners in third nations. The foundation provides assistance in the protection, study, and promotion of Turkic culture and heritage through supporting and funding various activities, projects, and programs. The organization carries out its activities in cooperation with TURKSOY and the Turkic Academy. Beijing (Gasgoo)- ZongMu Technology, a Chinese autonomous driving solution provider, on May 30 announced its collaboration with the prestigious Tsinghua University in establishing a joint research center for intelligent driver assistance systems. Photo credit: ZongMu Technology Tsinghua University will contribute its robust talent pool, advanced technology, and theoretical support to ZongMu Technology, injecting significant intellectual capital into the development of autonomous driving technology. In return, ZongMu Technology will provide Tsinghua University with a practical platform and technological scenarios, facilitating the application and promotion of the university's research achievements. Moving forward, both parties will leverage the research center to enhance collaboration in the field of intelligent assisted driving, strengthen talent cultivation, conduct in-depth research on key technologies, and promote the intelligence and safety of intelligent vehicles. Additionally, the duo will also assist the industry in formulating national and international standards and regulations for intelligent vehicle testing. By effectively integrating and complementing the research work, industrial applications, and strengths of automotive companies, the joint research center strengthens the collaboration between academia, industry, and research, which is of paramount significance in driving the creation of cutting-edge research outcomes. St. Peter the Rock; Hades; Peter & the Keys; Peters Betrayal & Jesus Prayer for His Faith; One Church vs. Denominationalism; Baptism in Acts The late Steve Hays (1959-2020) was a Calvinist (and anti-Catholic) apologist, who was very active on his blog, called Triablogue (now continued by Jason Engwer). His 695-page self-published book, Catholicism a collection of articles from his site has graciously been made available for free. On 9 September 2006, Hays was quite almost extraordinarily charitable towards me. He wrote then: I dont think Ive ever accused him of being a traitor or apostate or infidel. . . . I have nothing to say, one way or the other, regarding his state of grace. But his sincerity is unquestionable. I also dont dislike him. . . . I dont think theres anything malicious about Armstrongunlike some people who come to mind. In addition, I dont think Ive ever said he was unintelligent. For the record, its obvious that Armstrong has a quick, nimble mind. Two-and-a-half years later, starting in April 2009 and up through December 2011 (in the following quotations) his opinion radically changed, and he claimed that I have an evil character, am actually evil, ego-maniac, narcissist, idolater, self-idolater, hack who pretends to be a professional apologist, given to chicanery, one who doesnt do any real research, a stalwart enemy of the faith . . . no better than [the atheists] Richard Dawkins or Christopher Hitchens, with an intent to destroy faith in Gods word, schizophrenic, emotionally unhinged, one who doesnt trust in the merit of Christ alone for salvation, has no peace of mind, a bipolar solipsist, split-personality, and a bad man. He wasnt one to mince words! See more gory details. I feel no need whatsoever to reciprocate these silly and sinful insults. I just wanted the record to be known. Ive always maintained that Hays was a very intelligent man, but habitually a sophist in methodology; sincere and well-meaning, but tragically and systematically wrong and misguided regarding Catholicism. Thats what Im addressing, not the state of his heart and soul (let alone his eternal destiny). Its a theological discussion. This is one of many planned critiques of his book (see my reasons why I decided to do this). Rather than list them all here, interested readers are directed to the Steve Hays section of my Anti-Catholicism web page, where they will all be listed. My Bible citations are from the RSV. Steves words will be in blue. ***** [Chapter 7: Hermeneutics] Catholic prooftexts Matthew 16:18-19 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it. [19] I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. This is the classic prooftext for the papacy. 1. Lets begin with some programmatic questions: i) What does the rock refer to? [p. 315] Peter, according to many of the most eminent Protestant exegetes and reference sources (a remarkable number!), including New Bible Dictionary, Word Studies in the New Testament (Marvin Vincent), Wycliffe Bible Commentary, New Bible Commentary, Anchor Bible (William F. Albright and C. S. Mann), Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (R. T. France), Expositors Bible Commentary (D. A. Carson), Eerdmans Bible Commentary, Henry Alford, Herman N. Ridderbos, Albert Barnes, David Hill, M. Eugene Boring, William Hendriksen, John A. Broadus, Carl Friedrich Keil, Gerhard Kittel, Oscar Cullmann, Peakes Commentary, Gerhard Maier, J. Knox Chamblin, Craig L. Blomberg, William E. McCumber, Donald A. Hagner, Philip Schaff, Langes Commentary on the Holy Scriptures: The Gospel According to Matthew, vol. 8, The Laymans Bible Commentary, Encyclopaedia Britannica (1985; article by D. W. OConnor, a Protestant), Robert McAfee Brown, and Richard Baumann. For much more on this, see: Primacy of St. Peter Verified by Protestant Scholars [1994] The Papacy and Infallibility: Keys of the Kingdom [9-16-93; rev. May 1996] Protestant Scholars on Matthew 16:16-19 (Nicholas Hardesty) [9-4-06] ii) Does Hades refer to the realm of the dead or the realm of the demonic? [p. 315] The former, by definition, as Protestant commentators such as Ellicotts Commentary, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary, Meyers NT Commentary, and Vincents Word Studies hold. To my knowledge (I might be wrong), neither the devil nor the demons are ever said to be in Hades (Sheol), or associated with it. Hades is not hell. Now I propose answer my own questions: i) Caesarea Philippi is situated on a rocky terrace at the base of Mt. Hermon. As such, its natural to suppose the rocky metaphor was suggested by the immediate surroundings. Jesus was standing on rocky ground, and standing in the shadow of Mt. Hermon, at the time he made his statement. This may also goes to a difference between the written word and the spoken word. Consider the demonstrative pronoun: this. In that setting, its easy to imagine him pointing to an actual rocky object. I will build my church on this!accompanied by an illustrative gesture. The repetition of rock may well include a reference to Simon, but the double reference may also include a reference to the rocky surroundings. Indeed, that may be primary. [pp. 315-316] It is indeed a double reference. Jesus chose this spot because of that. I featured it on the cover of my book, Footsteps that Echo Forever: My Holy Land Pilgrimage (2014). But to make the physical rock facade primary is absurd. No commentator I have ever seen (if I recall correctly) has made such an argument. Its desperate eisegesis. R. T. France (one of the most renowned Protestant exegetes of our time) wrote: Jesus now sums up Peters significance in a name, Peter . . . The word-play, and the whole structure of the passage, demands that this verse is every bit as much Jesus declaration about Peter as v.16 was Peters declaration about Jesus . . . It is to Peter, not to his confession, that the rock metaphor is applied . . . (in Leon Morris, General Editor., Tyndale New Testament Commentaries, Leicester, England: Inter-Varsity Press/Grand Rapids, Michigan: Eerdmans Pub. Co., 1985, vol. 1: Matthew, R. T. France, 254, 256.) D. A. Carson, another highly respected Protestant exegete, observed: [I]f it were not for Protestant reactions against extremes of Roman Catholic interpretation, it is doubtful whether many would have taken rock to be anything or anyone other than Peter . . . In this passage Jesus is the builder of the church and it would be a strange mixture of metaphors that also sees him within the same clauses as its foundation . . . (in Frank E. Gaebelein, General Editor, Expositors Bible Commentary, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 1984, vol. 8: Matthew, Mark, Luke [Matthew: D. A. Carson], 368) Rock is probably a double entendre, both for Peter and especially the emblematic location. [p. 316] Well, now, Hays has stumbled upon the truth (it happens occasionally in his analyses of Catholicism). Whaddya know! Rocky is a pun in honor of Peters insightful confession, [p. 316] I prefer R. T. Frances take: It describes not so much Peters character (he did not prove to be `rock-like in terms of stability or reliability), but his function, as the foundation-stone of Jesus church. (Ibid.) but what the church is built on is what the location symbolizes. [p. 316] It provides a visualization of rock which was applied to Peter as the foundation, or first leader of the Church. Moreover, the location provided a double metaphor, insofar as it used to be an area of worship of the Greek god Pan. The Greeks thought the cave at the rocks base was the entrance to the underworld (Hades; which the NT used as the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew Sheol). Hence, Jesus said, the powers of death [Hades in Greek] shall not prevail against it. The Church was not built upon Hades or the worship of Pan. Hays take is simply ludicrous. Its special pleading and sophistry in order to avoid the clear Petrine and papal implications of the passage (that even many Protestant commentators at least partially concede is the case). In Revelation, the Netherworld is subdivided into a realm of the dead (Rev 20:13-14) and a realm of the demonic (9:1-11; . . . 17:8). [p. 316] Revelation 9:1-11 and 17:8, according to the usual Protestant interpretation, are referring to hell or the Lake of Fire, not Hades (e.g., Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary: the bottomless pitGreek, the pit of the abyss; the orifice of the hell where Satan and his demons dwell); so this is an eschatological category mistake by Hays. If we mentally flesh it out, the reader should visualize both heaven and hades as gated locations. [p. 316] That may sound fine and dandy, until we actually search for gates of heaven or heavenly gates or a proximity of the words heaven and gates in the Bible and discover that none of these ever appear (in the RSV). Thus, Hays is shown to be indulging in mere extrabiblical speculation with no scriptural grounding. Odd for a Protestant to do, isnt it? Given the associations with heathen idolatry, I think hades more likely connotes the realm of the demonic in this evocative setting. [p. 316] It was the netherworld (Hades), not hell. The analogy isnt exact. NT Greek sought to use the closest concept in Greek to Sheol, and that was clearly Hades. But I searched demon and devil and Satan and evil spirits in the Bible, in conjunction with Hades and Sheol, and couldnt discover any association. So once again, Hays indulges in wild, biblically unsubstantiated, arbitrary extrabiblical speculation. Catholic apologists typically allege that v19 is an allusion to Isa 22:22, then imports the entire Isaian context into v19. [p. 316] Not just Catholic apologists; also many reputable Protestant exegetes, such as W. F. Albright and C. S. Mann, Roland de Vaux, Craig S. Keener, M. Eugene Boring, The Interpreters Bible, S. T. Lachs, R. T. France, Ralph Earle (Beacon Bible Commentary), J. Jeremias, F. F. Bruce, Oscar Cullman, New Bible Dictionary, T.W. Manson, Eerdmans Bible Dictionary, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary, Adam Clarkes Commentary, Martin Luther, New Bible Commentary. For the quotes and documentation for all these men, see: No Papacy in the NT? Think Again (vs. Jason Engwer). With Special Emphasis on the Protestant Exegesis of The keys of the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 16:19) [8-1-22] and Protestant Scholars on Matthew 16:16-19 (Nicholas Hardesty) [9-4-06]. F. F. Bruce, perhaps the most famous and well-regarded of the above group, wrote: The keys of a royal or noble establishment were entrusted to the chief steward or majordomo; he carried them on his shoulder in earlier times, and there they served as a badge of the authority entrusted to him. About 700 B.C. an oracle from God announced that this authority in the royal palace in Jerusalem was to be conferred on a man called Eliakim . . . . (Isaiah 22:22). So in the new community which Jesus was about to build, Peter would be, so to speak, chief steward. (The Hard Sayings of Jesus [Downers Grove, Illinois: Intervarsity, 1983], 143-144) On pages 317-318, Hays cites two Protestant scholars who think Peter isnt the Rock that Jesus referred to: John Nolland and Robert Gundry. I have cited thirty scholars or reference works above. If anyone notices that Hays cited 28 or more scholars who think the way he thinks about the Rock passage, please let me know. Luke 22:31-32 Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, [32] but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail; and when you have turned again, strengthen your brethren. Peter is singled out, not because he outranks the other disciples, but because he will betray Jesus. The prayer anticipates his denial. Jesus prays for Peters restoration in advance of his betrayal. [p. 319] I see. Well, Jesus also said about the disciples as a group (John was the only exception): Matthew 26:31 Then Jesus said to them, You will all fall away because of me this night; for it is written, `I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered. (cf. Mk 14:27) John 16:32 The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, every man to his home, and will leave me alone; . . . According to Hays reasoning above, Jesus would have had to pray for all the disciples (save John), who would fall away and be scattered and leave Him alone when He was led away to His trial and passion and crucifixion. But He only prays for Peter (and I believe this is the only time the NT shows Him praying individually for a disciple, by name). We believe He did because Peter was the Rock, and he had to repent in order to fulfill his duties as the first leader and pope of the new Christian Church that Jesus built upon him. The strengthen your brethren implies (or is at the very least consistent with) this leadership. In other words, Peter was so important that the NT made it a point to show how Jesus prayed for him to have the strength to perform his ministry. As a matter of faith, Peters faith did fail. He lost his nerve and publicly renounced Jesus. Thats a paradigmatic act of infidelity. [p. 319] Protestants love to highlight Peters betrayal, so they can put him down. They also love the passage where Paul rebukes him for hypocrisy, for the same reason. Anything to knock him down a rung . . . I have noted elsewhere that Peters failure of nerve that even Hays alludes to was quite temporary. The whole thing probably lasted only five or ten minutes. He got scared when he was questioned, thinking he, too, would be killed, and made three denials. The cock crowed and then he immediately repented. Paul on the other hand, consented to St. Stephens stoning (Acts 8:1), and was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison (Acts 8:3) and was breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord (Acts 9:1) and made havoc in Jerusalem (Acts 9:21). Paul himself says that I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering to prison both men and women (Acts 22:4) and I formerly blasphemed and persecuted and insulted him (1 Tim 1:13). We dont know exactly how long this went on, but it appears to be some significant length of time, and certainly more than Peters ten or so minutes of fear and betrayal. Paul repented too (almost forced to by Jesus), but my point is that, if we are to bash Peter endlessly for his sin, how about a little fair-mindedness and keeping in mind how terribly Paul sinned: so much so that he called himself the foremost of sinners (1 Tim 1:15)? Its striking that the NT never says there is one church. [p. 320] The phrases the church (Acts 8:3; 9:31; 12:1, 5; 1 Cor 5:12; 6:4; 12:28; Eph 1:22; 3:10, 21; 5:23-25, 27, 29, 32; Phil 3:6; Col 1:18, 24) and my church (Mt 16:18) and the church of God (Acts 20:28; 1 Cor 10:32; 11:22; 15:9; Gal 1:13) and the church of the living God (1 Tim 3:15) and Body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27; Eph 4:12) certainly all strongly imply this. Finally, the Paul uses the body as a metaphor for the church. And he says there is one body. Thats the closest you get to a one church formula in the NT. If theres one body, and the body is a synonym for the church, doesnt that mean theres one church? In a sense. However, this is a flexible metaphor which Paul uses to illustrate diversity as well as unity or unicity. He alternates between the one and the many. [p. 320] Hays tries to reduce the impact of one body (Rom 12:4-5; 1 Cor 10:17; 12:12-13, 20; Col 3:15). But different parts of one body is a completely different concept from different bodies (hundreds, thousands of them, as it were). Hays tries to make a foolish argument that the biblical, Pauline, diversity in unity in the Body of Christ, the Church, is the equivalent of the division, discord, and acrimony that Paul repeatedly condemns, and which prevails in the contradictory, relativistic, and chaotic mess of Protestant denominationalism and sectarianism. The NT teaching on unity is the following: In John 17:22 Jesus prays that the disciples would be one, as we are one. And in John 17:23, He desires that they (and us) be completely one (NRSV). KJV, NKJV: perfect in one. RSV, NEB, REB: perfectly one. NIV: complete unity. NASB: perfected in unity. Now, it is pretty difficult to maintain that this entails no doctrinal agreement (and perfect agreement at that). And, reflecting on John 17:22, I dont think the Father and the Son differ on how one is saved, on the true nature of the Eucharist or the Church, etc. So how can Protestants claim this perfect oneness, as we [the Holy Trinity] are one? Or even any remote approximation? Paul commands: mark them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine ye have learned; and avoid them. (Rom 16:17). In 1 Corinthians 1:10, he desires no divisions, and that Christians should be perfectly joined together in the same mind. No one can say this is simply a warm fuzzy love and mutual recognition. Paul goes on to condemn mere contentions in 1:11, and asks in 1:13: Is Christ divided? In 1 Corinthians 3:3, Paul says that whatever group has strife and divisions are carnal, and walk as men. In 1 Corinthians 11:18-19 he seems to equate divisions and heresies. He calls for no schism in 1 Corinthians 12:25, etc., etc. (cf. Rom 13:13; 2 Cor 12:20; Phil 2:2; Titus 3:9; Jas 3:16; 1 Tim 6:3-5; 2 Pet 2:1). What more evidence is needed to be convinced that denominationalism and sectarianism is a sin? Yet Protestants blithely go on in the teeth of these biblical warnings and injunctions, seemingly oblivious to the possible consequences (see, e.g., Gal 5:19-21). John 20:22-23 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, Receive the Holy Spirit. [23] If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained. [I]t doesnt explicitly show us how that was understood and implemented in the church. For that our best source is the Book of Acts. Its not that the disciples personally absolve sin. Indeed, you dont find that in Acts. Rather, they provide the means for the remission of sin by evangelizing the lost. [p. 321] We do know how it was implemented: from the Book of Acts. Evangelism is part of it, certainly. But if we want a concrete, sacramental act that brings about forgiveness, its baptism: Acts 2:38-41 And Peter said to them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. [39] For the promise is to you and to your children and to all that are far off, every one whom the Lord our God calls to him. [40] And he testified with many other words and exhorted them, saying, Save yourselves from this crooked generation. [41] So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. This is a very full, substantive passage. It has baptismal regeneration, which is taught in 13 other NT passages also; it refers to receiving the Holy Spirit as a result of this baptism (no bald symbolism here!); it says that folks could save themselves (strongly implied, by baptism), and that baptism was the means of entrance into the Christian Church. Peter reiterates the same message of his sermon on Pentecost, in his first epistle: Baptism, . . . saves you (1 Pet 3:21). [Peter] speaks with no more or less authority at the council [of Acts 15] than Paul and Barnabas. [p. 322] I wonder why, then, Pauls words there werent even recorded; only summarized (Acts 15:12)? Peters words after much debate (Acts 15:7) are recorded (Acts 15:7-11). After he spoke, the assembly kept silence (15:12), and there was no more division (at least none noted in the text). James then speaks, but basically just reiterates what Peter said (Simon has related . . .: 15:14). *** Practical Matters: Perhaps some of my 4,300+ free online articles (the most comprehensive one-stop Catholic apologetics site) or fifty-one books have helped you (by Gods grace) to decide to become Catholic or to return to the Church, or better understand some doctrines and why we believe them. Or you may believe my work is worthy to support for the purpose of apologetics and evangelism in general. If so, please seriously consider a much-needed financial contribution. Im always in need of more funds: especially monthly support. The laborer is worthy of his wages (1 Tim 5:18, NKJV). 1 December 2021 was my 20th anniversary as a full-time Catholic apologist, and February 2022 marked the 25th anniversary of my blog. PayPal donations are the easiest: just send to my email address: apologistdave@gmail.com. Youll see the term Catholic Used Book Service, which is my old side-business. To learn about the different methods of contributing, including 100% tax deduction, etc., see my page: About Catholic Apologist Dave Armstrong / Donation Information. Thanks a million from the bottom of my heart! *** Photo credit: The Whore of Babylon (workshop of Lucas Cranach): colorized illustration from Martin Luthers 1534 translation of the Bible [public domain / Wikimedia Commons] *** Summary: The late Steve Hays was a Calvinist and anti-Catholic writer and apologist. This is one of my many critiques of Hays Catholicism: a 695-page self-published volume. In 1960, while being interviewed on the television show Meet the Press, Dr Martin Luther King, Jr, observed, I think it is one of the tragedies of our nation, one of the shameful tragedies, that 11 oclock on Sunday morning is one of the most segregated hours, if not the most segregated hours in Christian America. Sixty years and change later, its still true. And, actually, the tragedy extends beyond Christian communities. Perhaps one of the saddest things in my life is how segregated religious communities are. Including my own progressive and wishing to be more diverse communities. Both my liberal religious communities and my Zen Buddhist communities. While I was studying in seminary I stumbled upon an essay where the author noted there is no such thing as an integrated church. Churches are always integrating or segregating. But there is no stasis point that, say, maps the local ethnographic mix. There is always a majority, ethnically. And it is the overwhelming majority. The author, as I recall, was an Asian American pastor of a predominantly white congregation. He noticed it was true of black communities as well as white. And he noticed how there were majority Asian congregations further divided by nations of origin, Korea, Japan, China to begin the list, for whom all of which, they were either segregating or integrating. No noun in it, only verbs, only motion. Perhaps in the same essay, perhaps somewhere else I learned about what seems to be the twenty percent rule. That is the most welcoming of communities start to twitch when approximately twenty percent of some identified other joins. Even in the kindest and most welcoming community one begins to hear they language. And that language ends up with theyre taking over. And things happen to guarantee that taking over doesnt occur. An example that was presented was the Buddhist Churches of America. A fully protestant-ized Shin Buddhist church. But also it served a Japanese descent population, and an enormous part of its activities centered on transmission of Japanese culture. Totally welcoming of non Japanese. Even have white ministers. Until And then later as I came to know the various Zen communities more deeply, I began to see, there are those that serve majority white populations, and those that serve majority Japanese populations. Later I saw the same thing happens in Korean derived Zen. As for instances. It has been heartbreaking. Ive struggled against it, both individually, and in the communities that have called to my heart. And, Ive noticed where I go. And where I feel comfortable. I use quotes here because of the complexity of comfort, and the lies and the truths that mix up within that most human of emotions. Religion has always been the major focus of my life. It was the focus of my childhood, it became the obsession of my adolescence, finding my best fit was the work of my young adulthood, and in my maturity I worked within religious community. My academic studies, formal and informal, were focused on religion. My books and and other writings have all been about religion. The most important thing for me was that part of religion that is concerned with our relationships with ultimacy. Ive found at various times in my life that ultimacy can be called God, the gods, nature, the world, the cosmos, the universe, and variations on empty. Ive followed each down into depths that have transformed my life. I remain endlessly grateful. Along the way Ive also noticed that this is a minority aspect of the cluster of things that make up a religion. The principal project of religion is and has always been cultural cohesion. Ive mainly dismissed this aspect as crowd control. And I remain convinced that there is a coercive element that earns the pejorative. At the same time Ive found myself concerned with how that mystical element, the quest for and the finding of ultimacy, also informs how I engage my own culture. Particularly Ive been concerned with how my findings within my quest of a binding unity actually informs how I see my relationships with others. The is both the human world and the larger natural world. If, my reasoning has gone, we are actually intimately related, as Ive experienced at astonishing turns of my heart, well, then, there are consequences in how Im going to live in this world. And I extrapolate this out from my individual life to those larger aspects of my relationships. Ive seen it like a Russian stacking doll. An image, and one that cant be held too tightly. But it is helpful. Although I notice it can be expressed from both directions. The self, my sense of who I am, with its relative constants of geography and sloshing and changing biochemistry, but experienced constantly as an I, can be either the smallest doll in the center, or the outer doll. Going outward or going inward we discover those other aspects of who I am. Of who we are. Family. Extended family. Various communities, for me, the local religious community. And then its larger expressions. My town. My state. My region. My nation. The larger cultural extent of which my nation is a part. The world. To quickly attempt to capture various dolls. One thing Ive noticed along the way is any attempt Ive made of drawing a hard line and saying the I of it is on one side, and the not I is on the other, ultimately falls apart. Do I contradict myself? Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes.) Or. Maybe the true is that multitudes contain me. Stacking Russian dolls. Religion about social cohesion, religion about ultimacy. When I look at my religious communities, my liberal religious communities and my Zen Buddhist communities, I see the contradictions. I also, slowly, painfully, have come to see how important the cultural cohesion aspect is. And, how invisible that can be to me. To us. And the damage that can be done because of our obliviousness. Or, more generously, what hurt can follow in the wake of our contradictory needs. All of which fit the bill as religious. Is there a fix? Or, what should be a fix? Lots of questions here. It does seem that a necessary feature of seeking to heal the wounds of culture needs to start with noticing how we divide ourselves. Im not presenting a solution. Smarter people than me have failed in their quests for solutions. But I have some senses of what might be right directions. The first of these, of course, or course, is humility. The Zen teachers always tell us only dont know. Beginners mind is best. And then we need to try and see what actually is happening. With as little judgment as we can bring to the project. Another Zen rule: the great way is not difficult, it simply avoids picking and choosing. Another conundrum. I believe for our purposes here it means start as innocent as possible. Judgements have to enter the picture, but later. After we see what is. As best we can. And then, perhaps the most important too of all. And thats found in the core, the mystical, the sense of ultimacy. If I find myself, if we find ourselves surrendering into the mystery, well, then, things do happen. We care. We love. We want the best. For ourselves. And for everyone else. So. Maybe in there, somewhere, in there, is the path through for all of us. A mindbubble on a Wednesday morning You already know about flat-packed products, or build-it-yourself items that come in flat boxes you can easily take homethe concept is widespread in furniture (e.g., Ikea). Its not really been a thing in the PC space though, outside of niche offerings like Teenage Engineerings computer-1. Thats going to change once Cooler Masters Qube 500 Flatpack hits the streetsand it could help usher in a wave of slick deconstructed modular cases. Unlike the computer-1, the Qube 500 isnt tiny, nor does it lean into the origami aspect of that case. At 33 liters, it runs 380 x 231 x 381mm (or 406 x 231 x 415mm if you count protrusions like handles and feet), and it skips the folding and bending of panels to get them into ready condition. Instead, its a fully modular mini-tower that comes completely torn down. All the pieces are ready to go, and once you assemble them, you get a compact ATX case with lots of flexibility. Cooler Masters Qube 500 Flatpack will come deconstructed, but all panels appear ready for assembly. A 120mm fan, vertical mounting kit, and external cable routing accessory come included, too. Not only can you swap panels for different colors (thus creating your own unique look), but you should have complete ease when rolling together your PC. Cooler Master helps that along with a design that accommodates a variety of components. It cant hold every piece your heart desires, of courseit is a compact mini-tower, after all. You can fit in plenty, though. CPU coolers can go as tall as 172mm, graphics cards can be as long as 365mm, and even E-ATX boards are supported. You can also squeeze in radiator up to 280mm, up to three 3.5-inch drives, and a maximum of eight 120mm fans. Maybe not all at the same time, but the options are there. So too is the ability to mix and match panel colors, and Cooler Master plans to release playful colors in addition to standard black and white. Expect a yellow Bumblebee edition, as well as Macaron editions that come in midcentury-modern-esque pastels (mint, pink, and cream). With the wide grill perforations on its metal panels, a tempered glass panel, an included vertical mounting kit, and an ARGB fan upgrade for the candy-colored Macaron versions, the Qube 500 looks as fun as its assembly (hopefully) will be. Worried about dust? Underneath the perforated metal panels are filters. Cooler Master Cooler Master is even adding a Gem Mini accessory in the box, which can be used for external cable routing (e.g., headphones) or as an accessory hook. The company also says its panels will support 3D-printed accessories, continuing Cooler Masters encouragement of community-driven modifications for its cases. (Its popular MasterBox NR200 case features 3D printer files for different feet and an alternative PSU bracket right on the product page.) While InWin also released its own origami-like chassis not long ago, the Cooler Master Qube 500 is the case to watch. The 30-liter InWin POC is exciting in its own right, with an affordable price and distinctive colorways, but the company has a history of more limited releases, especially in the United States. Its large size for an mini-ITX case may be more offputting, too. Meanwhile, Cooler Master has already popularized less-known aspects of PC building, like it did with small-form-factor building and the $80 NR200. That smartly designed 18L case made SFF builds more accessible, both in cost and availability. Pricing is still be to be announced for the Qube 500, but with Cooler Masters generally mainstream-friendly MSRPs, this novel flat-pack case could kick off a new trend when it launches on September 15. AngloGold Ashanti says no one has been trapped in its Obuasi underground mine as has been reported. The company in a press release dated Tuesday, May 30, 2023 and signed by the Managing Director, Eric Asubonteng, said there was no person trapped underground. He said the main exit ramp from the mine remains open. He has consequently encouraged any unauthorised person underground to leave the mine at any time by the exit points where public security personnel remain on standby. According to him, it has come to the notice of the company that some illegal miners may be underground in the northern areas of the mine, remote from the current active mining areas. He explained that unauthorised persons underground are able to exit on foot, via the existing ramp, through the main access of this mining area, stressing that "Yesterday, seven illegal miners exited through this main access point on foot and are in the custody of the Ghana Police Service. Any unauthorised person underground is encouraged to leave the mine at any time by the exit points where public security personnel remain on standby." Attached below is a copy of the press release AngloGold Ashanti Ghanas Obuasi Mine is aware of media reports alleging that illegal miners may have been trapped underground in the northern areas of the mine, remote from current active mining areas. Unauthorized persons underground are able to exit on foot, via the existing ramp, through the main access of this mining area. No person underground has been confined in any way and the main exit ramp from the mine remains open. Obuasi Gold Mines management team has notified the relevant authorities and public security services and is working closely with them. Yesterday, seven illegal miners exited through this main access point on foot and are in the custody of the Ghana Police Service. Any unauthorized person underground is encouraged to leave the mine at any time by the exit points where public security personnel remain on standby. Intrusion of illegal miners into underground areas remains a significantly dangerous activity and AngloGold Ashanti Ghana is working alongside authorities to ensure that only authorized mine personnel and contractors can access underground work areas. The safety and security of our employees and community members remain our top priority and AngloGold Ashanti Ghana stands ready to provide any assistance required by the authorities in ensuring the safe exit of any unauthorized persons underground. Source: ghanaweb.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Flagbearer hopeful of the governing New Patriotic Party(NPP) and immediate past Minister for Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto is set to attend the African Agriculture, Food and Industry Forum in Istanbul & Tekirdag, in Turkey. He leaves Accra on Sunday, June 4, 2023. The Agriculture Economist who has worked in the UN system for over 18 years will be Special Guest of Honor at the event where he is expected to address thousands of captains of Turkish Agribusiness industries on Tuesday, June 6, 2023. He is expected to return home on Wednesday, May 8, 2023. The event is organized by the African Investors Council(AIC). It will be held from Sunday, June 5, 2023 to Friday, June 10, 2023. Dr. Afriyie Akoto's invitation to the event was spurred by his deep knowledge and vast experience in the field of Agriculture as an Economist, industry player and policy expert. The world business and cooperation forum gathers various sectors and institutions working for the development, modernization and technification of agriculture, textile, agribusiness and renewable energies, food and livestock farming, construction and infrastructure. The forum offers a platform for captains of agribusiness industries to meet and exchange ideas with Turkeys largest agricultural producers and investors. AICs mission is to bring together companies and entrepreneurs with the common goal of being a pioneer for the development of the African continent, in the fields of sustainable and innovative agriculture and food, within a cooperative of professionals from all over the world. A statement issued by the organizers said the Council's objective is to connect the various public and private actors in order to share their experiences, knowledge and investment opportunities for the continent. "Turkey and Africa have a long history of encounters, dialogue and peace for centuries. We hope that this Summit will further strengthen these ties and create economic opportunities for both sides," it added. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video NIGERIA; Osun State High Court on Tuesday, May 30, sentenced popular owner of Hilton Hotels, Ile-Ife, Dr. Ramon Adedoyin, to death by hanging for the murder of Timothy Adegoke. Adegoke, a former postgraduate student of the Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, was murdered inside his hotel room at Hilton Hotels in November 2021. Adedoyin and six of his workers were arrested and arraigned in connection with the murder. The court presided over by Chief judge of Osun State, Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo, found Adedoyin and two of his staff, Adeniyi Aderogba and Kazeem Oyetunde, guilty of murder and conspiracy. Ojo, while delivering her judgement on the case, held that the circumstantial evidence available to the court, pointed to the killing of Adegoke while being a guest at the hotel owned by Adedoyin. According to her, Adedoyins decision not to enter the witness box did not help him, as the circumstantial evidence had shifted the burden of proof on him. Justice Ojo also said Adedoyins decision not to enter the witness box meant he agreed to the murder charge pressed against him by the prosecution, dismissing the alibi pleaded on his behalf by his counsel, who said the hotel owner was in Abuja for many days around the time the death of the late Adegoke occurred. Justice Ojo, however, discharged and acquitted three of the staff, Magdalene Chiefuna, Lawrence Oluwole and Adedeji Adesola, while the seventh defendant is to hear her sentencing on Wednesday, following pleas by both the prosecution and defendant counsels. Source: LIB Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Ashanti Regional Executive of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have expressed their appreciation to the people of Kumawu and the NPP faithful in the region for their turnout during the recently held by-election in the constituency. They said the voter turnout during the by-election had been one of the highest in recent times and thanked the electorate for turning out in their numbers to give the party the needed win. Addressing the media yesterday to mark their first anniversary in office since the last regional conference, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the party, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, debunked the assertion that the NPP improved its votes in the region with a little over 300 votes while the National Democratic Congress (NDC) improved on its performance in the last December parliamentary election. He said the NPP performed better in terms of percentages. High performance Chairman Wontumi explained that even though the NDC may claim to have garnered more votes in the by-election than they did in the last December election, in the December election, the NPP had 51.11 per cent of the votes while in this by-election, we had 70.91 per cent of the votes. According to him, the NPP rather improved on its performance by 19.80 per cent while that of the NDC was less than 10 per cent (8.96). He said it could not, therefore, be true that the NDCs performance was better than that of the NPP. Winner Ernest Yaw Annim of the NPP won the by-election with 15, 264 votes, with Kwasi Amankwaa of the NDC placing second with 3,727 votes. In the last December parliamentary election, the NDC candidate had 2,439 votes representing 8.33 per cent of the total votes cast while the NPP candidate had 14,960 votes representing 51.11 per cent of the votes. Breaking the 8 Chairman Wontumi said the Kumawu victory was a dress rehearsal for the 2024 election and assured Ghanaians and the NPP faithful in particular that the party was on course to break the eight. He said a comparative analysis of the previous two terms in office of the two parties put the NPP poles ahead of the NDC and believed that the electorate would retain the NPP in power to continue its good work. He said most of the social intervention policies being enjoyed by Ghanaians were introduced by the NPP government and cited examples such as the Free SHS, the abolition of capitation in the Health Insurance Scheme, Planting for Food and Jobs, Metro Mass Transportation, among others, which he said were targeted at the vulnerable in society. Support He called on Ghanaians, especially party supporters to continue to give the government the needed support to transform the economy for the benefit of all. The regional chairman said the current challenges being experienced by the country were not peculiar to Ghana alone but expressed the hope that things would soon normalise. Source: graphiconline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Editor-in-Chief of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt says the law of contempt should be clearly and properly defined to check its abuse by Judges. According to him, it is very problematic to leave contempt of court to be solely determined by Judges. He said this in relation to the Supreme Court convicting Prof. Michael Kpessa-Whyte, a member of the National Democratic Congress, for contempt of court. Supreme Court Convicts Prof. Kpessa Whyte Prof. Michael Kpessa-Whyte was arraigned before the court following a series of tweets by him on May 19 when the Supreme Court ordered Parliament to expunge the name of Mr. Gyakye Quayson from its records as a Member of Parliament because he was wrongfully elected. Kpessa-Whyte wrote on Twitter: "The highest Court of the Land has been turned into Stupid Court". They have succeeded in turning a Supreme Court into a Stupid Court. Common sense is now a scarce commodity, he added. He was ordered to appear at the Apex Court to show cause why he should not be cited for scandalizing the Supreme Court but Prof. Kpessa-Whyte pleaded "guilty with explanation" to the charge. His legal team led by Dr. Justice Srem Sai also pleaded for mercy saying "we pray for the mitigation of sentence. My lord, immediately the matter was brought to his attention, he did issue a clear, unreserved apology which we have accordingly brought to the courts registry, addressed to the acting Chief Justice". It is our humble prayer, in all humility, we plead for mercy. We are also undertaking that such a sad and regrettable occurrence will not ever again. We commit to defending the integrity of this honourable Court, Dr. Sai added. The Court, on Tuesday, May 30, has cautioned and discharged him. Codify Contempt Of Court Reacting to the issue, Kwesi Pratt asked for a review of the law of contempt stressing what constitutes contempt should be vividly specified. "The problem is that the law of contempt must be properly defined and properly codified so that it doesn't depend on the whim of Judges...We must rethink the law of contempt so that it doesn't only lie in the bosom of Judges. "It should be sole properly defined as in the case of theft, as in the case of libel and so on; so you know the parameters. Otherwise, what the Judge feels is contempt becomes contempt, thus he can jail you. I don't think that is proper", he said on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has refuted a media report claiming he spent his birthday flying a private jet to Monaco, purportedly to say at the expense of the Ghanaian taxpayer. A Daily Guide publication captioned Napo Celebrates Birthday in Monaco made such claim but according to a statement issued by the Minister's Spokesperson, Kofi Abrefa Afena, this report is aimed to besmirch the character of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh. Setting the record straight, the statement read that "on the 23rd of May, 2023 which marked the 55th birthday of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, he was in Ghana and attended a meeting of the Economic Management Team (EMT). On the same day, 23rd May, Dr. Prempeh also attended a Board meeting of the governing Board of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC)". It added that the day after the Minister's birthday, he was "in his house in the morning, at his instance, where he recorded an appreciation message to his well-wishers for the love shown him on his birthday. He spent the rest of the day of the 24th in his office, where he carried out his routine official duties". "Dr. Prempeh after seeking the necessary approval from the Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, travelled abroad on KLM to Athens for a brief holiday. There is incontrovertible evidence in this regard. The above sequence of events is verifiable", the statement further clarified. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh is therefore urging the general public to disregard what he termed as "total fabrication and affront". "It is important to state that, the Energy Minister is fully aware of the maneuverings of his detractors, especially in the coming days, but remains focused in actualizing the vision of His Excellency the President for the energy sector." Read full statement below: Napo Was In Ghana On His Birthday; Ignore Malicious Daily Guide Publication My attention has been drawn to a clearly, malicious Newspaper Publication in todays edition of the Daily Guide Newspaper with the caption Napo Celebrates Birthday in Monaco. Among other unintelligent postulations, the publication alleges that the Energy Minister and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South flew a certain phantomized private Jet to celebrate his birthday. The publication which has unfortunately been given front-page prominence, in furtherance of a calculated scheme, is clearly a sordid attempt at besmirching the character of the Minister and to paint him as ostentatious in the eyes of right-thinking Ghanaians. I wish to respond to this total fabrication as follows: 1. On the 23rd of May, 2023 which marked the 55th birthday of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, he was in Ghana and attended a meeting of the Economic Management Team (EMT). 2. On the same day, 23rd May, Dr. Prempeh also attended a Board meeting of the governing Board of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC). 3. On 24th May, the day after, Dr. Prempehs birthday, I was in his house in the morning, at his instance, where he recorded an appreciation message to his well-wishers for the love shown him on his birthday. 4. He spent the rest of the day of the 24th in his office, where he carried out his routine official duties. 5. Dr. Prempeh after seeking the necessary approval from the Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, travelled abroad on KLM to Athens for a brief holiday. There is incontrovertible evidence in this regard. 6. The above sequence of events is verifiable. 7. Anybody who knows Dr. Prempeh very well will corroborate the fact that, he does not attach hype and razzmatazz to his birthdays, except, on those days, as an avid Christian, to be alone in sobriety and to thank the almighty God for his grace and mercies. What happened this year was no different. The attempt by some cowardly elements who feel threatened by the very personality of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, manifest in his fidelity to propriety and avowed principle, to uphold the supreme interest of the Republic of Ghana, who seek to court hatred and disaffection for him, has failed woefully. It is only sad that the Daily Guide will resort to this crude route of journalism. It is important to state that, the Energy Minister is fully aware of the maneuverings of his detractors, especially in the coming days, but remains focused in actualizing the vision of His Excellency the President for the energy sector. The general public is kindly asked to completely disregard this publication, which is a total affront to the concept of believability quotient in journalism. *END* SIGNED KOFI ABREFA AFENA SPOKESPERSON FOR DR. MATTHEW OPOKU PREMPEH (MP) ENERGY MINISTER Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On May 27, SAIC Motor announced it intends to make additional investments in QingTao (Kunshan) Energy Development Co., Ltd. ("QingTao Energy") through its two investment subsidiaries, as part of efforts to deepen its layout in solid-state battery technology and enhance the competitiveness of its new energy products. The total investment will not exceed 2.7 billion yuan. To be specific, Jiaxing Chuangqi Venture Capital Partnership (Limited Partnership) will contribute up to 1.97 billion yuan and Jiaxing Qijun No. 1 Equity Investment Partnership (Limited Partnership) subscribes for up to 730 million yuan. Photo credit: QingTao Energy Upon the additional investment, SAIC Motor will indirectly hold approximately 15.29% stake in QingTao Energy through Jiaxing Chuangqi, Jiaxing Qijun No. 1, and Jiaxing Chuanrong Equity Investment Partnership (Limited Partnership). SAIC stated that solid-state battery technology is an important component of its new energy strategy. The additional investment in QingTao Energy will help the company deepen its layout in solid-state battery field, seize the commanding heights of the new round of technological development, and enhance the competitiveness of its new energy products. Founded in 2016, QingTao Energy focuses on the R&D and production of solid-state lithium batteries, ceramic separators, and lithium battery production equipment. It has achieved independent control in terms of core materials, core processes, and customized equipment for solid-state batteries, and is one of the earliest domestic solid-state battery companies in China to achieve mass production and delivery. It is roughly estimated that QingTao Energy has so far completed at least seven rounds of financing. In addition to SAIC Motor, it has attracted investments from FreesFund, Leading Capital, THG Ventures, USUM Investment, Bank of China Group Investment Limited, BAIC Capital, GAC Capital, Henxu Capital, etc. SAIC Motor has participated in the investments in QingTao Energy through funds in 2020 and 2022. As of now, the Shanghai-based auto group has cumulatively invested roughly 283.5 million yuan in QingTao Energy through Jiaxing Chuangqi, Jiaxing Qijun No. 1, and Jiaxing Chuanrong, indirectly holding around 4.2% of the equity interest. Moreover, SAIC Motor has also jointly established a solid-state battery laboratory with QingTao Energy to promote the development of solid-state battery materials, cells, and systems, and accelerate the mass production and installation of solid-state battery products in vehicles. 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. Highmark Health on Wednesday reported strong financial results for the first quarter of 2023, saying health plan membership grew, and so did volume at the hospitals it owns. What it means: Highmark, although based in based Pittsburgh, has a major impact in central Pennsylvania. Its a major employer, with 3,500 employees in the Harrisburg region, many of them based at the Highmark campus on the edge of Camp Hill. As the largest health insurer in Pennsylvania, it covers many people in central Pennsylvania. Furthermore, Highmark is a partner of Penn State Health, contributing hundreds of millions toward new construction and upgrades of Penn State Health hospitals and services. That helps give an unusual level of health care choice to central Pennsylvania residents, who have access to hospitals and physician practices owned by UPMC, Penn State Health and WellSpan. By the latest numbers: Highmark Health said it took in $6.7 billion in revenue during the first quarter, resulting in net income of $227 million. The bigger picture: In addition to its health insurance arm, Highmark Health includes United Concordia, which sells dental coverage, and the western Pennsylvania-based Allegheny Health Network of hospitals and medical practices. Highmark Health said its health and dental insurance plans gained members during the quarter, and the AHN hospitals saw volume gains A Highmark Health executive attributed the hospital volume gains to patients getting health care that was deferred during the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought a period where elective surgeries were canceled to preserve capacity for COVID-19 patients, and many people avoided hospitals to avoid catching COVID-19. Background: Highmark Health says its the biggest health insurer, in terms of numbers of people covered, in Pennsylvania as well as Delaware, West Virginia and western New York. READ MORE FROM PENNLIVE: Highmark expansion into Philly region could make for stronger workplace, new jobs in central Pa. Highmark hurt by investment losses, high labor costs, but still earns money in 2022 Update: The three who were killed were ages 8, 9 and 19, police said. Three people died and a fourth person was injured in a Tuesday night shooting in Lebanon, police said. Shots were fired around 10:05 p.m. near the 400 block of North Fifth Street. Four people with gunshot wounds were found at the scene, according to police. One person died at the scene, and two others died at hospitals in Lebanon and Dauphin counties, police said. The fourth person underwent surgery and is recovering at a Dauphin County hospital, police said. Police said the identities of the people killed will be released at a later time. Lebanon City police are investigating the homicides alongside the Lebanon County District Attorneys Office, Pennsylvania State Police and other Lebanon County police departments. Police continued to work the case though the night and are continuing following up on information that has been developed this morning, Lebanon police said in a Wednesday morning news release. The investigation is very active. Police are asking anyone with information to call the Lebanon City Police Department at 717-272-6611. READ MORE: Hours-long Harrisburg standoff ends as police rescue toddler Cumberland County man to serve 1 to 2 years in prison for abuse of foster children A man barricaded himself inside a strangers Harrisburg apartment and held a 2-year-old girl at gunpoint for hours on Tuesday, prosecutors said. Antonio Hammond, 28, was wanted for a February parole violation when members of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force first encountered him early Tuesday afternoon. He pointed a handgun at the task force members and ran into a strangers apartment on Row 5 in Hall Manor between 11:30 p.m., according to the Dauphin County District Attorneys Office. Prosecutors said Hammond barricaded himself inside the apartment with a 2-year-old girl, whom Hammond did not know. Hammond held her hostage for nearly six hours and repeatedly pointed a gun at her, according to the district attorneys office. The Dauphin County Crisis Response Team monitored the apartment throughout the hours-long standoff and burst into the home at an opportune moment to rescue the girl, prosecutors said. She was rescued without injury. Prosecutors said Hammond pointed the gun at officers and tried to shoot them during the rescue. One of the officers then shot Hammond in the head. Penn State Health paramedics who are on the countys crisis response team gave Hammond critical care that saved his life, prosecutors said. Hammond was taken to a hospital where he remains as of Wednesday afternoon. Hammond was charged Wednesday with kidnapping of a minor, burglary, aggravated assault, criminal trespass, unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, unlawful possession of a firearm by a fugitive, and related offenses. District Attorney Fran Chardo said his office is investigating the crisis response teams use of force alongside the Pennsylvania State Police. READ MORE: Children ages 8, 9 among those killed in shooting: Lebanon police Cumberland County man to serve 1 to 2 years in prison for abuse of foster children A former member of the Butler Area school board in Butler County has been charged with sexual assault after police say he had inappropriate sexual contact with a 17-year-old. William Halle, 58, is being charged with sexual assault, corruption of minors, criminal use of a communication facility, and criminal solicitation, according to reports from WTAE and WPXI. Halle resigned from his position on the school board back in late April after a sexual violence protection order was filed against him. A man accused of shooting a McKeesport police officer in front of the departments station in 2020 pleaded guilty to the crime on Tuesday and was sentenced to 20 to 40 years in prison, according to reports from KDKA and WTAE. Koby Lee Francis pleaded guilty to a number of charges, including attempted homicide and aggravated assault, for shooting and wounding officer Gerasimos Athans, 32, on Dec. 20, 2020. Francis shot Athans after he had been detained for violating a PFA, reports said. When Athans arrived with Francis at the police station, Francis shot at the officer three times, police said. Athans returned fire, but Francis ran away, with his hands still handcuffed, video shows. Francis was apprehended ten days later by U.S. Marshals in Clarksburg, West Virginia. Athans recovered and returned to work less than a month after the shooting, WTAE said. READ MORE: Man accused of shooting western Pa. police officer arrested in West Virgina: police A school bus driver in Delaware County is facing criminal charges for restraining a 10-year-old student using duct tape. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Juliet Pratt, 55, has been charged with false imprisonment and endangering the welfare of a child after authorities claim she restrained a student during her bus route for the Upper Darby School District. Authorities began an investigation after staff at Hillcrest Elementary, where the child is a student, reported the incident on March 8. Surveillance footage from the bus reportedly shows Pratt using duct tape to hold the students ankles together as he sat buckled into his seat, and later showed her return and placing tape on his chest. Pratt admitted to police in an interview that she had duct taped the student, and had done so before. The Inquirer reported that Pratts lawyer, Arthur Donato, said in an interview that Pratt did not intend to hurt the student, and restrained his legs in order to protect him and other children because of how he was kicking his legs. According to WPVI, District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer said that he believed the student has Down syndrome, which is why he was seated in a special harness on the bus. Other charges against Pratt, including unlawful restraint, were dismissed by a district judge at a preliminary hearing earlier this month. Update: Two men arrested in Lebanon triple homicide: district attorney Authorities have released the names of those killed in the triple-homicide in Lebanon Tuesday night. Those killed in the shootings were identified as: Joshua Lugo-Perez, 19; Sebastian Perez-Salome, 9; and Jesus Perez-Salome, 8. The fourth shooting victim, who is being treated at a hospital in Dauphin County, was identified as Luis Cancel, 33. All of the victims were identified as Lebanon residents. The release of the names did not include any information on whether the victims are related, though Lebanon School District Superintendent Arthur Abrom did identify the two Perez-Salome children in a letter to district families as elementary students there. Lebanon police provided no additional updates on their investigation in Wednesdays statement, through Mayor Sherry Capello said the case continues to move forward. Lebanon Police Chief Bret Fisher, left, speaks as Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello listens during a news conference about a shooting that killed two children and a teenager in Lebanon, Pa. (Matthew Toth/Lebanon Daily News via AP) Earlier Wednesday, police said they have a person in custody who is potentially linked to the Tuesday night shooting near a home in the 400 block of North 5th Street. Late Tuesday, police said they were dispatched to the shooting call at 10:05 p.m. All four victims were found with gunshot wounds at the scene, according to police. One person died at the scene, and two others died at hospitals in Lebanon and Dauphin counties, police said. Regarding the person in custody, Lebanon Police Chief Bret Fisher said Lebanon County SWAT executed a search warrant on North Ninth Street Wednesday morning. During the execution of that search warrant one person was taken into custody. He is a person of interest in this crime but he was taken into custody in an unrelated matter, Fisher said. Lebanon City police are investigating the homicides with assistance from the Lebanon County District Attorneys Office, Pennsylvania State Police and other Lebanon County police departments. More: Survivors of the Perez-Salome boys have launched an online fundraising campaign to help cover costs of the boys burial. By Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times (TNS) ANAHEIM, Calif. In the summer of 2020, amid the cultural reassessment and nationwide protests following the killing of George Floyd, fans of Disneylands Splash Mountain were put on notice. The 1989 ride, popular for its five-story drop but made infamous by the controversial movie that inspired it, would close. Disney said at the time it wanted a more inclusive concept, one free of association with the racist 1946 film Song of the South and its white-centered depiction of slavery and stereotypes. On Tuesday, Disneyland fans gathered in Critter Country to mark the closure of Splash Mountain, which will not reopen with the park on Wednesday. Some cheered as log-shaped cars dropped from the top of the Disney-constructed mountain known as Chickapin Hill, while others, wearing fan-made T-shirts commemorating the day, clutched plushies of the Splash Mountain characters for the rides mid-fall photo. Most were hopeful for whats to come, an attraction themed to The Princess and the Frog, the 2009 fairy tale that stars the companys first Black princess. Some, however, were sorrowful that a piece of their childhood would be lost. I didnt get to go to Disneyland until I was in my teens, and this was one of the first rides I ever rode, said Stefanie Re, 39, who lives near Portland, Ore. Re had come to the Disneyland Resort with custom-made Mickey Mouse ears that referenced the ride and films song Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah. Its just a big memory for me. Its something I wanted to achieve as a kid watching the commercials and getting the picture. Its nostalgia. A happy memory. Re was optimistic that The Princess and the Frog makeover, known as Tianas Bayou Adventure and scheduled to open here and at Walt Disney World in 2024, would be something better. While not everyone shared Res opinion some wished the ride wasnt changing Splash Mountains three-year goodbye cant help but feel overdue. Disney Worlds Splash Mountain has already closed. Doomed from the start L.A. Times articles from the late 1980s cited Disney spokespeople already trying to justify the attraction, noting that it would skirt controversy by focusing solely on animated scenes and would avoid any references to the Reconstruction-era South. But even at the time of the rides opening, Song of the South was in the Disney vault, kept out of movie theaters and, eventually, off of streaming platforms. Hindsight criticism is always easy, but Splash Mountain will go down in history as a significant miscalculation from Walt Disney Imagineering, the arm of the company devoted to theme park experiences. By 2003, Disney representatives were declining to commit on future releases for Song of the South. In 2020, Chief Executive Bob Iger called the movie not appropriate in todays world. Splash Mountain also signaled a tentative approach to theme park design, one in which creatives no longer created original projects Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, Its a Small World, Big Thunder Mountain but rather were beholden to film and television intellectual property. Park guests said Tuesday that the ride stands apart from the movie. But Splash Mountain is still a ride in which the most popular song, Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah, has connections to minstrel shows. The two cannot be completely divorced, and the words Song of the South are emblazoned on the large, critter-adorned ferry boat in the rides finale. Splash Mountain was born of another cultural era, its themes chosen in part due to its location in Disneyland which in the late 80s was known as Bear Country and as a way to reuse audio-animatronics from the patriotic America Sings. The end of that era felt relatively subdued Tuesday. Waits around lunch time hit three hours, but for most of the morning the 65-minute posted queue was more like 25 minutes. Disney in the past has attempted to turn ride closures into something of a party, complete with celebratory merchandise, but there were no Splash Mountain trinkets, save for a commemorative coin from a penny-press machine. Although some accused Disney of being woke, the scene Tuesday was quiet except for fan sites setting up livestreaming stations. Work is underway in nearby New Orleans Square to welcome Tianas Bayou Adventure. New Orleans Squares French Market Cafe is being remade into Tianas Place. The quick-service dining location, boasting New Orleans staples, will open later this year. Concept art from Disney's reimagining of its Splash Mountain ride using "The Princess and the Frog" as the attraction's new theme. (Disneyland Resort/TNS)TNS Concept art for Tianas Bayou Adventure shows a more mystical attraction, one that Disney promises will celebrate New Orleans with a tinge of fantasy, courtesy, likely, of Mama Odie, the 200-year-old bayou fairy godmother from the film. The ride will feature a robust number of audio-animatronics Disney has said dozens, many likely repurposed from Splash Mountain to culminate in a giant Mardi Gras musical celebration. Famed Disney Imagineer Tony Baxter, known for spearheading Big Thunder Mountain and helping to bring the works of George Lucas into Disney parks, has argued that Disney in the early to mid-80s often was forced to look to the companys deep past for inspiration, as films of the era struggled to resonate with audiences. Splash Mountain follows Brer Rabbit and his attempts to live a life of bliss while eluding Brer Fox and Brer Bear. When Splash Mountain came to life over 30 years ago, the wave of Disney Animation that started with The Little Mermaid had not yet begun, Baxter said in a 2020 news release. New stories would give us characters, music and wonderful places that now reside in the hearts of audiences everywhere. One could write a book about Joel Peterson and his contributions to the wine industry during his five decades as a winemaker. He carved his niche while making wine for Ravenswood Winery beginning in 1976, growing that Sonoma-based producer from 327 cases to nearly 1 million cases during his time there. It was, as writer Tim Fish noted in a July 2020 story looking into the status of the producer, one of the Three Rs of California Zinfandel, the other two being Ridge and Rosenblum. For Peterson, Ravenswood is now one chapter in a career that began a new one in 2014 when he founded Once and Future Wine Company. You can read a very condensed version of his wine history under the About tab on the website for his new winery, which you can access at this link. Listed on that timeline is a mention of his son, Morgan Twain-Peterson, who as Peterson describes has chosen winemaking as his career and runs the highly innovative and successful Bedrock Wine Company. He closes with a description of his now almost 10-year endeavor, calling it a return to the original vision he had for Ravenswood many years ago. Its a project that specializes in wines from special vineyards made with a sensitivity to place and in a style that I personally love and believe in. Wines that force me to dust off the old redwood vats and get out a new punch down tool [my original is in the Smithsonian], wines that dye my hands that harvest shade of black/purple and sometimes force me to take an additional Advil some mornings. In short wines of sweat, exertion, and love. Two of Petersons wines will soon be available through the states Fine Wines & Good Spirits stores: the the 2019 Petite Sirah from the Palisades vineyard in Calistoga, California, and 2019 Zinfandel from the Green & Red Vineyard in Napa Valley. Joel and James Heminway, owners of Green & Red, were two of the original founders of ZAP (Zinfandel Advocates and Producers) and both started their Zinfandel adventures back in the mid-1970s. Below isnt exactly a book, but thanks to Peterson taking some time to answer a few questions from PennLive, its at least an introduction to the wines hes now making in this second life in the cellar. Q, Lets start with the basics. What should consumers know about the winery and about these two wines that will be selling In Pennsylvania? A, Once and Future is the winery that I started as a post Ravenswood project in 2014. I had been making wine for nearly 50 years. I had grown [with a lot of help] Ravenswood from 327 cases to nearly 1 million cases over the course of my tenure there. When I ask myself what I wanted to do with the third stage of my life, the answer was clear. Continue making wine as long as possible, but return to my early days at Ravenswood, with production under 3,000 cases when I did most of the winemaking myself, worked only with vineyards that I loved and produced only high-quality wines that I would happily drink myself, and with friends. To that end my wines are all fermented in small open-topped redwood fermenters [2- to 6-to]), indigenous yeast fermented, native malolactic, punched down by hand, and aged in 225 L French oak cooperage. Very traditional, very simple winemaking, but a style of winemaking that requires careful attention and a personal touch. I work with vineyards that are unique and have personality. Vineyards that are able to express flavor of place in an assertive way. The goal of the simple, low process winemaking is to provide a delicious organoleptic view into that place. The Green & Red Zinfandel and Palasades Petite Sirah are perfect examples of this fusion of vineyard and winemaking. So, the first thing to know about these two wines is that they are delicious representations of their place and their variety. Says Joel Peterson of his Once and Future winery endeavor: 'The wines I make now are made in exactly the same way that I made the early Ravenswood wines. The only difference being that I have far more experience that I bring to the process.' These two vineyards are among the best that produce Zinfandel and Petite Sirah in Napa Valley. The Green & Red Zinfandel vineyard was planted in the late 1970s by Jay Heminway, a longtime friend, and fellow founder of ZAP (Zinfandel Advocates and Producers). The vineyard is planted in red volcanic chert in the Chiles Valley on the east side of the Napa Valley. My grapes come from a steep northwest facing slope that allows the Zinfandel to ripen to perfection without extreme sun exposure that would cause withering and overripe flavors in the grapes. There is about 15% Petite Sirah in the vineyard mix, which adds more depth and substance to the wine. That addition is a nod to the original Zinfandel plantings from the late 1800 that were often mixed with other grapes to provide balance and substance to the Zinfandel. The Palisades Petite Sirah is planted in a small valley that is an alluvial fan that is directly below the Palisades Massif just north of Calistoga. It was planted in 1976 by the Son on the Barberis Family, that planted the original vineyard in the late 1880s, using the budwood from the original vineyard to establish the new vineyard. The vineyard is dry farmed (no added water) and organically farmed. What is unusual about this vineyard is that the tannins (tannins in Petite Sirah can be very aggressively mouth-wrenching) from these grapes are perfectly balanced in the wine that contribute to a dark, intense, long-lived wine with the black and white pepper scents this variety is known for. Q, How did you come up with the name for the winery? A, My wife was watching a joint wine presentation and tasting that my son [Morgan is an MW and operates Bedrock Winery] and I did. She wrote in the margin of her tasting notes Once and Future referring to the two generations doing the presentation. I on the other hand saw it as the perfect representation of what I was doing with my new brand: Once I had a small winery, in the future I will have a small winery; once I only worked with vineyards I loved, in the future I will only work with vineyards that I love; once I did most of the physical work of making wine, in the future I will do the physical work; once I made all my wines is small (2- to 6-ton) open-top redwood fermenters, in the future I will do the same; once I kept the winemaking simple, in the future that is how I will make wine. I think you get the Idea. In these days of large production wines the way that I once made wine is also the future of making high-quality, place-driven wine, fine wine. Q, Ten years in, is it at the point you expected it to be in terms of the kinds of wines you are producing? A, Ten years in I am producing exactly the wines that I was hoping to produce. I am making the wines that I love to drink. I have slowly been re-engaging with many of my favorite vineyards from the early Ravenswood years, vineyards such as Old Hill, Dickerson and Teldeschi. High-quality vineyards are critical to the production of high quality wine. Q, I love the history of the 2 vineyards. How old are the vines in both of those vineyards? How much time do you spend in them? A, Both these vineyards are exceptional vineyards with great histories. Both these sites have been farmed for many years. They were sites chosen long ago as having great potential for high quality grape production. The fact that they are still growing great grapes is a testament to the judgment of early planters. Petite Sirah grows in the Palisades Vineyard. These two vineyards are two among the multiple vineyards I visit during the year. Since I do not farm these two vineyards I dont spend as much time in them as I would if I was in charge of farming. I am the oversight and quality control for each vineyard. I visit during the critical points in the year. Pruning, bud break, fruit set, veraison, multiple times as the fruit is nearing ripeness and, of course, at harvest. Q, Im 69, with 50 years in the business. You are at a similar point, even further I guess, in terms of career years of winemaking. What are a couple of aspects of making wine that you never get tired of? A, I am 76 and have been involved in commercial wine making since 1972, so, 51 years. I still regard the annual cycle of vine growth in the vineyard a magical. Watching the ancient vines renew themselves from gnarly barren vines to bright leafy green productiveness never grows old. Also, the transformation of grape into wine. The sounds, the smell, the labor and comradeship of crush are always inspiring and invigorating. Q, And are there lessons from Joe Swan that have had an impact on you all these years later? A, Working with Joe Swan taught me patience and a casual meticulousness of craft that is the hallmark of an artist shaping the elements of his art. I learned a lot about process from Joe Swan, but perhaps more importantly, it was this philosophical approach that influenced me. Q, Anything you know about working with that grape now that you didnt in those early years? If you are referring to the Zinfandel grape, I did not know just how profound place is to the flavor of Zinfandel. I was unaware of the range of delicious flavors that could be harvested by paying attention to vineyard site and climatic location Q, Why do you think Zinfandel became such a mainstream red? A, Zinfandel is an ancient grape. It was grown along the Dalmatian coast (Croatia) by the Venetians perhaps as early as 1200 AD. [The earliest written documentation of the grape is 1452. It got to California in 1852 and by 1888 was the most planted grape in California. California created the perfect marriage of climate and Zinfandel grape. Zinfandel is highly sensitive to its environment and produces wines of distinctive character in each of Californias prime growing regions. But the bottom line is that the wines are generous, taste good, come in a variety of styles and hence appeal to a wide group of wine lovers. Joel Peterson, enjoying life and his now almost 10-year-old venture called Once and Future Wine Company. Q, Is there anything you have done with your Once & Future Zins that are different from the Ravenswood Zins? A, The wines I make now are made in exactly the same way that I made the early Ravenswood wines. The only difference being that I have far more experience that I bring to the process. The many small choices made in the winemaking process make a substantial difference in the resulting wine. I like to think that my wines are less rustic that my early Ravenswood wines. More: A story of fine wine, Muscadine and cancer: N.C. couple transfer their hope into documentary Penn State Extension to offer hands-on training in wine microbiology East Coast wineries assessing losses after late frost turns May morning into a bad dream On June 1, the University of Arizona College of Medicine Tucson will be launching an access line to help providers across the state treat mental health conditions in their pregnant and postpartum patients. The Arizona Perinatal Psychiatry Access Line (APAL) will be available from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday during the summer before expanding to full business hours in January 2024. Available to providers across Arizona, it offers free consultations on ways they can treat mental health and substance use conditions in pregnant and postpartum patients. Providers who call the line (1-888-290-1336) will be connected with a perinatal psychiatrist (perinatal refers to the time surrounding birth for a pregnant person), who can answer questions, discuss cases and help them to make a plan to care for their patient. Ultimately, it's designed to address both huge needs for maternal mental healthcare but also to support our colleagues in other specialties who are working really hard and are really struggling to meet this need on their own, without the support that they need," said APAL co-director Dr. Kathryn Emerick. APAL also offers training in perinatal psychiatry to providers and organizations across Arizona as well as a website with resources grouped by county that pregnant people and their family members can access. According to APAL co-director Dr. Saira Kalia, one in five women in the U.S. develop postpartum depression and 25% of those cases emerge during their pregnancy. The transition to parenthood is a very challenging piece in terms of renegotiating identities and social roles and it's a perfect storm for hormonal changes, she said. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data from Sept. 2022 show that more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths from 2017 to 2019 were preventable, with 23% being caused by a mental health condition. Perinatal mental health conditions have a similar impact in Arizona a March 2022 report from the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) found that 98% of pregnancy-associated mental health and substance use disorder deaths were preventable. The report found that these conditions accounted for 48.8% of all pregnancy-associated deaths (meaning that they occurred during or within a year of the pregnancy, but the cause was not related to the pregnancy), while the rate of mental health conditions and substance use disorder in pregnancy-related deaths in Arizona was 30.4%. One of APAL's goals is to increase mental health care support for this population in Arizona. Over the course of a pregnancy, a woman receives medical care in the U.S. and they can expect to be stuck with needles, prodded with ultrasound wands, Kalia said. .When it comes to mental health, that medical care juggernaut just comes to a screeching halt and in the U.S., many expectant mothers can get little more than a checklist of questions. By creating APAL, the College of Medicine -- alongside UArizona Health Sciences, Banner-University Medicine and the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) hopes to help providers across the state address those conditions, through consultations, trainings and helping families access resources. While we know there are a number of barriers to accessing mental health treatment for everyone, individuals who are in the perinatal period also face more obstacles, including a lack of providers who have specialized training in the treatment of perinatal mood, anxiety and substance use disorders and which medications are safe to use for people who are pregnant and breastfeeding, said Rachael Salley, maternal child health and EPSDT manager for AHCCCS. Providers calling the line will be connected to perinatal psychiatrists to discuss the case and how to care for their patients. The organizers will also collect data on trends to learn more about the best models for perinatal mental healthcare in Arizona and make recommendations at the state and federal level. Several APAL leaders noted that treating perinatal mental health conditions can have long-lasting effects, not only benefitting mothers, but their children and families as well. Without proper treatment, we know that maternal mental health conditions affect not only the sufferer but her children her grandchildren and can cause generational trauma, Salley said. By investing in maternal mental health treatment, we are impacting population health for generations to come. More information, including resources for individuals by county, can be found at apal.arizona.edu. Starting June 1, providers can call the access line at 1-888-290-1336. Pennsylvanians already knew that the Keystone State is home to some pretty cool zoos. One of them, the Philadelphia Zoo has been named of the Top 26 best animal parks in the United States by U.S. News and World Report. This past weekend the zoo held a fun poll to name two male sloth bear cubs born at the zoo on Jan. 2. They were first visible to the public on May 23. The public was asked to choose their names - Kelce and Harper in honor of Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Bryce Harper of the Philadelphia Phillies - or Hall and Oates, in honor of Daryl Hall and John Oates, a pop rock duo formed in Philadelphia in 1970. On Memorial Day, the zoo announced the names are - Kelce and Harper. Thank you to the thousands of fans who helped us choose names for our un-bear-ably cute sloth bear cubs. These two will be out exploring their habitat typically in the afternoons, the zoo posted on Facebook. Now, back to U.S. News and World Report. Rachael Hood, senior travel editor for U.S. News and World Report, authored the report that named the top animal parks for education, conservation and global outreach. Finding zoos and animal parks focused on educating visitors about the importance of all animals, conservation efforts, and research to help aid endangered species and disappearing habitats can help eco-conscious travelers feel good about visiting. While not all zoos are created equal, the editors at U.S. News used an extensive research process to create this list of the top zoos in the country. All the destinations receive favorable traveler reviews on multiple websites, are accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums an organization focused on the well-being and care of animals and have been evaluated by experienced veterinarians and animal care specialists. The Philadelphia Zoo is home to more than 1,900 rare and endangered animal, according to the report. Since opening in 1874, the Philadelphia Zoo has been a leader in wildlife care with the worlds first on-site animal care center at a zoo and the countrys first successful orangutan and chimpanzee births. The facilitys groundbreaking Zoo360 exploration trail system connects habitats and gives animals more space to roam. Big Cat Crossing, one of five Zoo360 trails, features an overhead mesh bridge for lions, pumas and jaguars, while other trails connect outdoor yards to primate exhibits like the Rare Animal Conservation Center and the PECO Primate Reserve with golden lion tamarins and orangutans. Zoogoers say its a good destination for families, with clean enclosures and a variety of exhibits. The Philadelphia Zoo is at 3400 W. Girard Ave. By Julia Marnin, The Charlotte Observer (TNS) A woman working as a general manager at an Arbys became trapped in the restaurants walk-in freezer while performing opening tasks, according to a new lawsuit. As other employees had arrived for work, Nguyet Le panicked once locked inside and beat her hands bloody trying to escape or get someones attention, the lawsuit filed May 25 says. Le, 63, froze to death at the restaurant in New Iberia, Louisiana, on May 11, according to the lawsuit, which says preliminary autopsy findings list hypothermia as the cause. Now, New Iberia police are investigating the incident after they were called to a report of a body found in a freezer at 6:19 p.m. that day, McClatchy News previously reported. Her son Nguyen Le, another Arbys employee, found her body after he arrived for his restaurant shift, the lawsuit says. She was found dead in the evening, according to KADN News 15. Now, Nguyen Le and his three siblings are suing Arbys over her death. Additionally, Turbo Restaurants and Sun Holdings, which are based in Texas and own several Arbys restaurants, are named as defendants, an original petition filed in Harris County District Court in Texas shows. An Arbys spokesperson told McClatchy News in a statement on May 26 that the franchisee in New Iberia is cooperating fully with local authorities as they conduct their investigation over the tragic incident. A regional director of operations for Turbo Restaurants referred a request for comment from McClatchy News to Sun Holdings. McClatchy News attempted to reach Sun Holdings for comment on May 26 and was awaiting a response. Attorney Paul Skrabanek, of the Pierce Skrabanek law firm in Houston, is representing the family to help investigate and hold accountable those responsible for the potential negligence that led to such a disturbing end for their loved one, a May 17 news release said. Le, a widow and mother of four who lived with her oldest child Nguyen Le, worked at an Arbys restaurant in Houston, Texas, as a general manager, the lawsuit says. In February, her supervisor asked her to take a temporary assignment and work at the Arbys in New Iberia for what was supposed to last four weeks, according to the lawsuit. Nguyen Le joined his mother to temporarily work there, Skrabanek told McClatchy News. At some point, that assignment was extended by her supervisor, the lawsuit says. The freezer was supposed to be kept at -10 degrees, if not colder, according to the lawsuit. The morning of May 11, Le got trapped in the freezer and ultimately collapsed into a fetal position face down on the frozen floor, the lawsuit says. An investigating police officer reported that he observed blood on the freezers inside door, leading him to believe Le was pounding on the door, according to the lawsuit. In a May 12 news release, the New Iberia Police department wrote that no foul play was suspected. A former New Iberia Arbys employee told Nguyen Le and his siblings that the restaurants walk-in freezer latch had been broken since August 2022 and employees used a screwdriver to open and close the door, according to the lawsuit. Other times, a box of oil was used to keep the door open, the lawsuit says. Despite the freezer doors latch being broken, it was never fixed for nearly nine months, the lawsuit says. Manlius, N.Y. A mother swan taken from a New York village pond was killed and eaten on Memorial Day, according to a source familiar with the investigation. Manlius police said on Tuesday that the swan had been killed and announced three people were charged. Eman Hussan, 18, of Syracuse was arrested in connection with the killing of Faye, the mother swan, said Manlius police Sgt. Ken Hatter. A 16-year-old and a 17-year-old, both from Syracuse, were also arrested, he said. The source Tuesday afternoon told Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard the swan was eaten by one teens family. The swan, Faye, and her four babies were stolen from the pond, said Manlius Village Mayor Paul Whorrall. The last time they were seen was Saturday by a village employee who was tending to flowers in the area, he said. The babies, or cygnets, were found and are in good health, Manlius police said Tuesday. Two of them were found at a store in Shop City Plaza in Salina and the others were found in a home in Syracuse, police said. Manlius police and state Department of Environmental Conservation officers were seen at a home on Lilac Street in Syracuse Tuesday morning. An officer there told Syracuse.com the baby swans had been recovered. State Department of Environmental Conservation officers talk to other police officers at a house on Lilac Street on the North Side of Syracuse on Tuesday, May 30, 2023 as they investigate swans missing from the Manlius Swan Pond. (Rylee Kirk | rkirk@syracuse.com) The cygnets are in the care of a biologist, who oversees the health and well-being of the swans for the village. Multiple people called in tips to the police that helped the baby swans be saved, police said. The DEC police and the Syracuse Police Department are also investigating. Hussan and the juveniles were charged with: Third-degree grand larceny, a felony Second-degree criminal mischief, a felony Fifth-degree conspiracy, a misdemeanor Third-degree criminal trespass, a misdemeanor The two juveniles were released to their parents on appearance tickets. Hussan was taken to centralized arraignment to await his arraignment. Manlius police ask anyone with information to contact them at (315) 682-2212. Manny, one of the beloved swans from the Manlius swan pond, swims in the pond alone Tuesday, May 30, 2023. His mate, Faye, was stolen and killed. Katrina Tulloch | ktulloch@syracuse.com Staff writer Rylee Kirk: 315-396-5961, on Twitter @kirk_rylee, or rkirk@syracuse.com. HALIFAX, Nova Scotia (AP) A wildfire that started Sunday on Canadas Atlantic coast has damaged about 200 houses and other structures and prompted the evacuation of 16,000 people, many of whom were eager to return to see whether homes and pets had survived. Halifax Deputy Fire Chief David Meldrum said it was too early to give an exact count of homes destroyed, but the municipal government put the toll at about 200 buildings. The National Weather Service says a high pressure system over the Atlantic Ocean is drawing smoke from the wildfire into mid-Atlantic regions, leading to an air quality alert in central Pa. and elsewhere. Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston announced the province would be banning all travel and activity in all wooded areas as of 4 p.m. local time. Were in a very serious situation in this province, and we need to take the steps that we can to protect Nova Scotia, he told a news conference via a video call from Shelburne, where the provinces largest wildfire has been burning since the weekend. I wanted to get a sense of the damage here, he said. Its extensive. Its heartbreaking. Dan Cavanaugh was among two dozen people waiting Tuesday in a Halifax-area parking lot to learn if their suburban homes had been consumed by the wildfire. Were like everyone else in this lot, said the 48-year-old insurance adjuster. Were not sure if we have a house to go back to or the extent of the damages. Police officers were writing down the names of residents and calling people to be escorted to see what had become of their properties. Sarah Lyon of the Nova Scotia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said an eight-member team was preparing to head out into the evacuation zone to retrieve animals left behind. In all, about 16,000 people have been ordered to leave their homes northwest of Halifax, most of which are within a 30-minute drive of the port citys downtown. The area under mandatory evacuation orders covers about 100 square kilometers (38 miles). The extended forecast is calling for hotter weather on Wednesday and no rain until Friday at the earliest. Lebanon police have a person in custody who is potentially linked to a Tuesday night shooting in the city that killed three people, two of them children. Late Tuesday, police said three males ages 8, 9 and 19, died and a fourth one was injured following the incident around 10:05 p.m. along the 400 block of North Fifth Street. All four were found with gunshot wounds at the scene, according to police. It appears at the early stages of this investigation that one of these victims was targeted. The other three victims were uninvolved, Lebanon Police Chief Bret Fisher said at a Wednesday press conference. He declined to say which person was targeted. One person died at the scene, and two others died at hospitals in Lebanon and Dauphin counties, police said. The fourth person, a 33-year-old man, underwent surgery and is recovering at a Dauphin County hospital. Fisher said Lebanon County SWAT executed a search warrant on North Ninth Street Wednesday morning. The person of interest in the triple homicide was taken into custody around that time, police said. During the execution of that search warrant one person was taken into custody. He is a person of interest in this crime but he was taken into custody in an unrelated matter, Fisher said. Lebanon City police are investigating the homicides alongside the Lebanon County District Attorneys Office, Pennsylvania State Police and other Lebanon County police departments. Police said the identities of the people killed will be released at a later time. At this time, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims families, said Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello. Residents in the 900 block of Ferry Street between Ninth and 10th streets in Eastons West Ward returned Tuesday morning to fire-ravaged homes with some roofs gone, levels gutted and family pets still missing. Flames ignited at 3:40 p.m. Memorial Day somewhere in the back between 911 to 915 Ferry St., said Easton Deputy Fire Chief Chad Gruver. Gruver said at the time, the wind was blowing toward the west, which sent significant gusts carrying flames down the block, torching upward of a dozen three-story row homes. If it was not a windy day, it couldve been contained to just three structures, Gruver told lehighvalleylive.com from the scene Tuesday. Unfortunately, there was damage (by firefighters) as we tried to stop the fire from going and trying to contain it. Within a matter of seconds, it jumped one house from another house. All the homes sustained heavy smoke damage with significant fire damage impacting others. It took hundreds of firefighters from more than 30 agencies in the six-alarm blaze about six hours to bring flames under control, Gruver said. All residents were able to escape safely with family pets mostly cats remaining on the loose Tuesday. Every tenant seemed to have owned multiple cats, Gruver said. Reptiles, including pet snakes, were rescued from some homes. A fire in the 900 block of Ferry Street in Easton on May 29, 2023. (Mike Nester | lehighvalleylive.com contributor, file)Mike Nester | lehighvalleylive.com contributor Three firefighters suffered from heat exhaustion, including one who was taken to the hospital for a medical evaluation and has since been released, Gruver said. As of Tuesday morning, 61 people, including four children, were displaced in the fire, said William Slotter, disaster action team manager for the Pennsylvania Rivers chapter of the American Red Cross, which covers the region. Easton Fire Chief Henry Hennings called it the citys biggest fire in recent years and the first time hes ever seen a six-alarm response in the city. Childhood home destroyed For the Beers family of three adult sons, they watched their childhood home burn from day into night. We grew up on this block, it was our old stomping grounds, said Mark Beers, whose 84-year-old mother, Sylvia Beers, still lived at 911 Ferry St. Now, shes lost everything. Mark Beers, of Plainfield Township, got the call from his niece that their childhood home was gone. He got to Easton within 20 minutes to find the block in ruins. He said two of his mothers cats died, but one was able to be carried out by Sylvia Beers. I was shocked, sad and in disbelief, Mark Beers said. My mother never wanted to leave this home. Jeff Beers, Marks older brother, lives at a neighboring home. A neighbor began knocking on the door to tell him flames ignited in the back. A family friend who rented from Sylvia Beers in another home also escaped with the help of a neighbor. A large fire in the 900 block of Ferry Street in Easton's West Ward on May 29, 2023, involves multiple row homes. (Mike Nester | lehighvalleylive.com contributor, file)Mike Nester | lehighvalleylive.com contributor Melissa Dennis, of Tatamy, Mark Beers niece, had lived for more than a decade on Ferry Street. That home was owned by her father, then uncle and eventually, her grandmother, Sylvia. Dennis recalled the Christmas tree being displayed in back of a main level bay window. Former neighbors dressed up as Santa and Mrs. Claus as holiday helpers for neighborhood children. Everyone on the block knew each other and would pop in and out of houses during the holiday season, she said. Dennis was best friends with a girl who once lived at 915 Ferry St. Sylvia would feed the neighborhoods stray cats on her back patio. Its my childhood home destroyed, Dennis said. Its very heartbreaking. ... Now, its gone. All gone. Dennis wasnt the only one to return Tuesday and revisit memories of the block. Dawn Tharp, of West Easton, also lived in the neighborhood for five years. She knew about nine families, including the Beers, who lost all their belongings in the fire. Many, Tharp said, remain shaken by the aftermath. Its just unbelievable, Tharp said. I feel so very sorry for them all. Its just heartbreaking. Kevin Maxwell, who lives at 921 Ferry St., said he was sitting in his living room watching television when he heard a knock on the door from neighbor Lucinda Sewell. Sewell, who lives across the street, saw the flames and ran to homes, knocking and yelling, Get out, she said. Maxwell was lucky to grab his car keys, cellphone and a military flag of his late father. I went outside, saw the flames and saw the wind blowing this way, Maxwell said. I said, Oh, shoot. Sewell said everyone was running down the street, knocking and banging. Itll be a while before she can get the sound and sight out of her mind, she said. There was a flash bang and a swoosh, she said. And then a black plume just went up into the sky. The cause and origin of Mondays blaze is under investigation by fire officials. Multiple online fundraisers also have since been launched to aid victims. One GoFundMe fundraiser mentions a table on Saturday will be set up all day to collect donations at Eastons Centre Square. City Councilwoman Taiba Sultana also posted on Facebook Tuesday she was collecting clothing donations for families in the 1000 block of Ferry Street. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Ocean City, New Jersey, officials are preparing to sign off on changes that would tighten a city-wide curfew for minors and restrict access for all ages to the beach and boardwalk area after a weekend that saw police responding to nearly 1,000 incidents, authorities said. Over the weekend, police responded to 999 incidents, an increase of 130 over last years Memorial Day weekend, which included underage drinking, vandalism, assaults, shoplifting and the confiscation of a gun, according to a statement from the city. The city council scheduled an emergency meeting for 1 p.m. on Thursday to discuss the issue and officially adopt the rule changes, officials said. Under the new rules, all beaches will be closed at 8 p.m. Carrying backpacks will not be permitted on the beach or boardwalk after 8 p.m. as well, officials said. The new beach curfew will apply to people of all ages, as will the evening backpack ban. Boardwalk bathrooms will also be closed at 10 p.m. The citywide juvenile curfew will move up from 1 a.m. to 11 p.m. once city officials take the required action Thursday, authorities said. Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian said the new steps are necessary following the unruly behavior of many over the holiday weekend. I understand that these new directives will affect many people who are not teens, but its important that we stop this type of behavior now, Gillian said in a statement. In the end, protecting our reputation as Americas Greatest Family Resort will benefit everybody in Ocean City. I want to support the men and women of our police department, Gillian continued. They have been doing everything they can within the law to address this situation, and I want to give them the tools to get the job done. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. More: 16-year-old in custody after swan swiped from N.Y. pond is found killed Coast Guard ends search for teen who went overboard cruise ship: reports Teen drowns, 5 others pulled from ocean at N.J. beach Last year, two days after Thanksgiving, BreYanna Thompsons childhood friend was gunned down in Harrisburg. Thompson was traumatized by the slaying of TayAndre Warren, whom she had known since sixth grade. Story by Katie Meyer of Spotlight PA Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters. Philippine Interior Secretary Ronaldo Puno attends a news conference Thursday, Nov. 26, 2009, at Manila's Quezon City in the Philippines. A Quebec forensics company promised millions of dollars in bribes to officials in the Philippines, including a cabinet minister and his brother, as it sought lucrative police contracts, according to a statement of facts attached to a deal the firm struck to avoid prosecution in Canada. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/Bullit Marquez It was with sounds of construction in the background that Arizona Senator Mark Kelly visited Doney Park last week. As construction crews race against time to construct flood control infrastructure in the hopes of mitigating post-fire flooding, the senator and Small Business Administration head Isabella Guzman met with county officials on issues of flood control, disaster relief and wildfire. The visit came after the federal government provided $90 million to the Coconino County Flood Control District to respond to post-fire flooding, said flood district spokesperson Sean Golightly. That money was allocated within a bill that Congress passed last year. Washington D.C. can be a frustrating place, Kelly told reporters. But at times we can all come together and do really positive things [] so it's good for me to see, you know, what comes from that work. The media event, in which county officials thanked the senator for the federal assistance passed last year, came as part of what might be called a gratitude tour. Just a month ago, county officials held an event with state agencies in appreciation of funding the state provided to respond to local flooding. The area of Doney Park has been hit hard by post-fire flooding, first experienced in the wake of the Schultz Fire nearly a decade ago. After the Tunnel and Pipeline fires last year, the county saw more than 40 floods and spent more than $9 million responding to the crisis. The county flood district is now putting more than $30 million into flood mitigation and watershed restoration into areas impacted by last years Tunnel and Pipeline fires. Kelly said he is proud to have had a hand in the creation of a wildfire commission to examine how to better respond to and prevent wildfires across the country. That commission was also supported by Utah Senator Mitt Romney. I approach a lot of these issues as engineering problems to be solved, and this fire issue, you know, is one in particular, Kelly said. We do the same thing every year, and we expect a different result. And we shouldn't expect that. County Flood District Administrator Lucinda Andreani sits on that commission and said there are already numerous improvements she would like to see in how wildfires, and subsequent floods, are handled in planning and response. It's just an amazing opportunity. I think everyone that's serving appreciates that Congress took this step to get input from people like me, and others from across the West that are impacted by this, Andreani said. Andreani said one policy she would already like to see change is how the Federal Emergency Management Agency qualifies communities to receive disaster relief. The current system is largely designed around single unique disasters within a short period of time, such as a hurricane or tornado. But Andreani said the current system is not well suited to provide help for longer-term disasters such as repeated flooding, even when those instances can be just as destructive. As Kelly and county officials spoke with the press, crews with Tiffany Construction were hard at work building new flood infrastructure along Highway 89 and between homes in Doney Park. Construction foreman Max Barnes, an 18-year veteran of the company, described the difficult work as they race to get it done before monsoon season. Barnes pointed to a car-sized boulder in the middle of the nearly 20 foot deep trench they are digging to channel flood waters. You can see over here where they've been hammering on that all day. Its just hit and miss up here, I got other sections where it's just as clean as can be; you could dig for China, Barnes said. The channel theyre working on is designed to carry between 800 to 1,000 cubic feet of flood water per second past homes north of Highway 89, preventing those same floods from impacting residents. And this project is just one of several the company is working on with the county to address flood concerns, said General Superintendent for Tiffany Construction Michael Garrison. In just a few weeks, Kinney Construction will also begin work within Schultz Creek to build on-forest flood mitigation. In that case, rather than catching the flood water and channeling it downstream, the hope is to spread the water out, slowing it down and reducing the debris and sediment its carrying. Garrison said they had hoped to let that area dry out somewhat after the record snows and recent rains before getting started. But now, Garrison said theyve determined that they will begin work regardless of how much Schultz Creek might be flowing. Barnes said they hope to be done with work in Doney Park by mid-July before the monsoons take hold. But even if the rains come first, Barnes said theyll keep working to get the job done. Well [keep working], everybody wears a trench coat or a raincoat. We just keep swinging. Barnes said. I was on a project up in the mountains a couple of weeks ago, it was snowing on us up there. And that sentiment was echoed by Garrison. It would not be spring in Coconino County if we were not under the gun, Garrison said. We're always beating the mountain. The deal with us is, we're going to finish this up rain or sun. That's what we do. So we're going to take the sun while we get the sun, but if the mountain comes at us, we're going to keep working anyway. We'll get it done. Two former Ontario conservation officers are imploring the province to reverse plans to expand a sport that allows dogs to track down captive coyotes, foxes and rabbits in massive fenced-in pens. Riders from Fairfield County Hounds and dogs assemble for a hunt in Bridgewater, Conn. in this In this Oct. 8, 2014 photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-Jessica Hill A protestor dressed as a walrus stands outside Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ont., on Saturday, May 20, 2023. Ontario has charged Marineland over the care of its bears. A THE CANADIAN PRESS/Alex Lupul 2023 WSOP Day 1: Big Guns Turn Out in Force for the $25K High Roller; Razaei Leads May 31, 2023 Matthew Pitt Editor The wait is finally over; the 2023 World Series of Poker (WSOP) is underway at the Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas! It feels like it has been forever since the PokerNews Live Reporting team was last on the ground, bringing you all of the action from the WSOP, but here we are again, ready for another summer of incredible poker action. Day 1 of the 2023 WSOP saw two events shuffle up and deal: the $500 Casino Employees event and the eagerly anticipated $25,000 High Roller 6-Handed. The $500 Casino Employees saw its 1,015-strong field whittled to a more manageable 89 over the course of 17 levels, while the $25,000 High Roller 6-Handed ended with only 65 of the 187 entrants in contention for a WSOP bracelet. Daniel Rezaei Gets Off to a Flying Start in the $25,000 High Roller 6-Handed Event #2: $25,000 High Roller 6-Handed is a new addition to the WSOP schedule, with last year's equivalent played as an 8-handed tournament. Day 1 saw 187 entrants, including re-entries, enter the fray, although that number is set to increase because late registration remains open until the start of Day 2 on May 31. As you would expect from such a prestigious tournament, dozens of elite-level players bought into the first big buy-in event of the summer. When the curtain came down on Day 1 proceedings, and the dust had settled, only 65 players had chips requiring bagging and tagging. Nobody crammed more betting tokens into the overnight bag than Austria's Daniel Rezaei. End of Day 1 Top 10 Chip Counts Place Player Country Chips Big Blinds 1 Daniel Rezaei Austria 1,368,000 137 2 Justin Liberto United States 1,147,000 115 3 Brek Schutten United States 1,050,000 105 4 Sean Winter United States 1,047,000 105 5 Brock Wilson United States 1,009,000 101 6 Keith Lehr United States 997,000 100 7 Bin Weng United States 975,000 98 8 Christopher Brewer United States 899,000 90 9 Bill Klein United States 888,000 89 10 Samuel Laskowitz United States 790,000 79 Rezaei finished Day 1 in the envious position of chip leader, having turned his 150,000 starting stack into a colossal pile worth 1,368,000, or 137 big blinds on Day 2 if you prefer. The Austrian built a substantial stack early into Day 1 and was propelled to the chip counts' summit when he eliminated Shannon Shorr during the seventh level of the evening. Razaei turned a flush, which crushed Shorr's middle pair. Shorr re-entered and finished with 304,000. Four other players return to their seats armed with seven-figure stacks. Justin Liberto (1,147,000), Brek Schutten (1,050,000), Sean Winter (1,047,000), and Brock Wilson (1,009,000) is that big stacked quartet. Keith Lehr (997,000), Bin Weng (975,000), Christopher Brewer (899,000), Bill Klein (888,000), and Samuel Laskowitz (790,000) round out the current top ten. Phil Hellmuth, Daniel Negreanu and Sean Winter Further down the chip counts, but still in with a shot of glory is a whole host of stellar names. Adrian Mateos (775,000) is lurking just outside the top ten, while Daniel Negreanu (610,000), on his second $25,000 bullet, is in the top 20. Also still in the mix are such luminaries as reigning WSOP Main Event champion Espen Jorstad (563,000), Kristen Foxen (411,000), Isaac Haxton (355,000), the legendary Phil Hellmuth (340,000), Brian Rast (230,000), and Justin Bonomo (228,000). Shaun Deeb (75,000) sits down on Day 2 with the shortest stack. Play resumes at noon local time on May 31, and PokerNews will be on hand to bring you all of the action as it happens. Check out our guide to the Best Online Casinos around the world. For US players, online real money casino is available in Pennsylvania, Michigan, New Jersey and West Virginia. If you're looking to start playing Online Casino right now, then we recommend FanDuel Casino. If youre in a State where real money online casino isnt an option, then you still have the chance to play via Social Casino sites such as Chumba Casino and LuckyLand Slots. PokerNews' Jesse Fullen Second in Chips Going Into Day 2 Jesse Fullen Event #1: $500 Casino Employees Day 1 is done and dusted. Some 1,015 players bought in, up from 832 last year, but only 89 will return for Day 2 on May 31. PokerNews' very own Jesse Fullen finds himself second in chips and with a realistic chance of having to work the rest of the series with a gold WSOP adorning his wrist. You may recall that PokerNews' Chad Holloway triumphed in this very event in 2013. Holloway is still in the mix in the 2023 edition, although his 211,000 stack places him 59th at the restart. Chad Holloway On the other hand, Fullen scooped a massive pot during the final level of the night, one that catapulted him toward the top of the chip counts. Fullen flopped a full house, eights full of threes, and eliminated Terra Dorvall, who held a pair of tens on the hole. The turn and river did not help Dorvell, and Fullen flew up the leaderboard. Only Benson Tam (889,000) has more chips than Fullen right now. At least both Fullen and Holloway faired better than PokerNews' Senior Content Manager, Yori Epskamp. Epskamp three-bet all-in with ace-king over an opening raise from David Eaton, made with the dominated ace-seven of diamonds. Eaton called and flopped a flush draw, which came in on the turn, leaving Epskamp drawing dead. Epskamp collected $876 for his efforts. End of Day 1 Top 10 Chip Counts Place Player Country Chips Big Blinds 1 Benson Tam United States 889,000 89 2 Jesse Fullen United States 861,000 86 3 Lisa Eckstein United States 775,000 78 4 Zaen Qatan United States 773,000 77 5 James Urbanic United States 618,000 62 6 John Vournas United States 613,000 61 7 Burcu Dagli United States 583,000 58 8 Joshua Honegger United States 529,000 53 9 Joshua Brodsky United States 527,000 53 10 Sandra Faabeng United States 499,000 50 Others that bagged and tagged sizeable stacks include Lisa Eckstein (775,000), Zaen Qatan (773,000), and James Urbanic (618,000). Reigning champion Katie Kopp went deep in the event but ultimately fell short of the money places, as did 2021 champion James Barnett. Play resumes at 10:00 a.m. and continues until only one player has all the chips in play. That player will become a WSOP champion and receive $75,535 in addition to the all-important WSOP bracelet. What Events Are Running on Day 2 of the 2023 WSOP? May 31 is Day 2 of the 2023, and it is packed with action. Event #1: $500 Casino Employees and Event #2: $25,000 High Roller 6-Handed play out their respective Day 2s, while Event #3: $1,000 Mystery Millions, Event #4: Tournament of Champions, and Event #5: $1,500 Dealer's Choice 6-Handed all kick off at the Horseshoe Paris Las Vegas. Gov. Greg Gianfortes veto pen hasnt run dry yet, and $23 million in proposed infrastructure projects this week fell victim to the executives check on legislative spending. The mark-downs have rankled some lawmakers who object to his characterization of their projects as pork-barrel spending. The Republican governor on Tuesday issued line-item vetoes for several projects approved by the Legislature in House Bill 5, the main infrastructure spending bill that funds most state-owned buildings and capital development projects in Montanas two-year budget. The list included $3.8 million in spending proposed by the Department of Military Affairs that Gianforte said will not go forward, along with an additional cottage proposed for the Southwestern Montana Veterans Home in Butte, for $6 million. But Gianforte also took aim at several projects tacked onto the bill during a Senate Finance and Claims Committee meeting in April, in which lawmakers added a flurry of line items that would direct funds to their districts or hometowns. As the meeting stretched into the evening, Sen. John Esp, the Republican chairman of the budget committee, at one point lamented, I just wish we were doing this out on the floor of the Senate, where God and everybody could see it. Unfortunately, projects were added into House Bill 5 at the last minute without being properly vetted, discussed and debated, Gianforte wrote in his veto letter, dated May 23. ... While the federal appropriations process in Washington, D.C., is notorious for larding up appropriations with pork, Montana is different. His language echoed that of Senate Majority Leader Steve Fitzpatrick, who accused colleagues of gluttony when he urged them to subsequently reject many of those projects on the Senate floor. His efforts succeeded only in removing a $9.6 million appropriation for Buttes World Museum of Mining. After the bill cleared the Legislature, Fitzpatrick sent a follow-up letter to the governor requesting the removal of some of the remaining projects, which he characterized as unnecessary and wasteful spending. Sen. Tom McGillvray, a Billings Republican, disagreed. Among the line-item vetoes was an $8 million appropriation McGillvray successfully added for the Yellowstone Conservation Area on the west side of Billings. It would give a boost to the $150 million project, for which the bulk of funding has been raised through city ratepayers. People came from Billings and testified on that amendment, McGillvray said in an interview Friday. There was no under-the-table secret. This was out in the open. He reiterated his argument from the Senate Finance and Claims Committee, that the request is a pittance compared to the degree to which Billings contributes to the states tax base. And the project is one thats critical for ensuring a reliable supply of city drinking water and averting a potential breach of the "Big Ditch" irrigation canal that runs through the city, Billings City Administrator Chris Kukulski said in an interview Friday. One of our greatest risks that we have in town for resiliency, and the governor specifically came to Billings and highlighted the issue, is the Billings Bench Water Association ditch, he said. Its 125 years old and its in serious, serious need of maintenance. Billings biggest flood in history came from this ditchs failure back in the '30s. Last year, when historic rainfall upstream pushed the Yellowstone River in Billings to a new high water mark, the citys water treatment plant had to be taken offline. That left a city of more than 100,000 people with less than two days supply of drinking water. The reservoirs and secondary water treatment plant that would be built as part of the proposed project would extend that emergency supply to 40 days, Kukulski said. Gianforte also struck more than $6 million in other projects he characterized as last-minute additions: $2 million for local park improvements $1 million for sewer system upgrades in Columbus $1 million for the Chippewa Cree Cultural Ceremony Building $1 million for the Chippewa Cree Language Immersion School $250,000 for Missoulas Riverfront Trail One item that didnt get removed, however, was a $2 million appropriation for the Miles City Train Depot. It was added by Sen. Kenneth Bogner of Miles City, at the same time as the World Museum of Mining, Yellowstone Conservation Area and Columbus sewer system projects were being tacked onto the bill. Bogner is the No. 3 Republican in the Senate. When I initially heard about this project, I thought the project should be removed, Fitzpatrick wrote in his letter to the governor. However, it is my understanding the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks has been actively engaged in the project prior to the session. Thus, I believe it would be appropriate to keep this project in House Bill 5. Sen. Ryan Lynch, a Butte Democrat who was able to amend a pair of substantial additions into the bill for the Butte veterans home and mining museum rejected the governor's argument that spending was "snuck" into the bill. The characterization that it was this late night, secret meeting, it was actually the legislative process, Lynch said. The senator who carried HB 5, however, had objected at the time to many of the Senate budget committees amendments. Mike Cuffe, a Eureka Republican, was the vice chair of the budget subcommittee on infrastructure, which spent the first half of the session vetting applications and holding hearings for projects that ended up in HB 5 and other infrastructure legislation. Cuffe maintained that adding projects subsequently wasnt fair to other applicants who had lined up to pitch their proposals to the subcommittee. Because House Bill 5 passed both chambers with two-thirds votes, the Secretary of States office will automatically poll lawmakers on whether they want to override each of the governors line-item vetoes. Legislators have 30 days to vote. McGillvray said hes lobbying his colleagues to keep the $8 million for the Yellowstone Conservation Area in the bill. Im disappointed, but well try to override, McGillvray said. Thats all we can do. Did Tom Dwan Slow-Roll Doug Polk in $1.1 Million Poker Hand on Hustler Casino Live? May 30, 2023 Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S. Tom Dwan tanked twice while holding a monster in the same hand against Doug Polk, who had five-high in what turned out to be a $1.1 million pot on Hustler Casino Live. The question viewers are now debating is was it a slow-roll? Tuesday's game was the last of four million-dollar games on Hustler Casino Live, and the action thus far has been as intense and entertaining as any of the previous three sessions. Dwan, the former internet poker legend back in the Full Tilt Poker days, has certainly never been one to slow-roll, at least in televised games. But many in the HCL YouTube chat were convinced his tank on the turn and river was a "f**k you" to Polk, who has made some critical comments of "durrrr" in the past. Was it a Slow-roll? The hand began with Polk raising to $3,000 from the cutoff with 54 and then calling a three-bet to $14,000 from "durrrr" and his 77 in the small blind. When the flop came 27K, bingo for the preflop aggressor, Dwan bet out $15,000 and his opponent called, hoping to either pick up some equity on the turn or bluff to take it down. The 6 was juicy as it gave the Upswing Poker founder an open-ended straight draw. But Dwan bet out $30,000, about half the size of the pot. Polk then bumped it up to $115,000 on his draw, and this is where the hand got a bit strange. Sitting on the second nuts, Dwan went into the tank for quite some time, an odd play. The only hand that had him beat was pocket kings, and that wasn't a likely holding for his opponent given he didn't four-bet preflop. After a few minutes of waiting, Polk had enough and called the clock. Shortly after, Dwan made the call and the 6 showed up on the river, giving "durrrr" a full house. He decided to slow-play his hand and checked it over to the button. Polk, who couldn't possibly win the $291,000 pot without betting, refused to surrender to the former online poker star and ripped off a bet of $420,000, leaving about $550,000 behind. There was no way Dwan would fold as he was only concerned with pocket kings or possibly pocket sixes, both unlikely scenarios. Once again, he oddly went into a deep tank before deciding to just call. $1.13 MILLION POT!! @TomDwan vs @DougPolkVids!! Hustler Casino Live (@HCLPokerShow) It certainly wasn't a clear-cut slow-roll. In fact, there's a solid possibility that Dwan really was concerned about one of the two hands that beat him especially given the stakes. He conceivably could have been thinking in his head that Polk doesn't have it in him to make such a massive bluff at these stakes even though he's one of the best high-stakes poker players ever. But the YouTube chat pros seemed to think it was a slow-roll and that Dwan was trolling Polk for some of the things he's said about him in the past. Polk, who co-owns The Lodge Card Club near Austin, Texas, was down $620,000 for the session at the time of publishing. Dwan was up just north of $500,000 and was the biggest winner in the final day of the Hustler Casino Live $1 million cash game. There were over 43,000 fans tuned in to watch the action on YouTube. Sharelines Incredible hand on @HCLPokerShow between Tom Dwan and Doug Polk. 888 Ambassador Vivian Saliba's Top 5 Tips on Building an Online Poker Bankroll March 09, 2023 PokerNews Staff Vivian Saliba is a professional poker player, streamer and 888poker ambassador and know's a thing or two about building an online poker bankroll. Saliba understands that there will be some people out there that would like to hop onto the virtual felt but are a bit hesitant to risk lots of money. So, the tournament and Pot-Limit Omaha specialist has relayed some top tips to help fledgeling poker players build their first online bankroll without doing too much damage to their pockets. Play Freerolls Playing freerolls is the easiest way to build an online bankroll without risking any of your money. You can practice, learn, put in volume and win without spending a single penny on freeroll tournaments. There are several freerolls in the 888poker lobby every single day. And during the site's marquee festivals, you can even win tickets to major events, which could allow you to boost your bankroll even more. 888poker players can also get access to special freerolls by visiting the 888poker Stream Team member's Twitch channels, so be sure to keep an eye out on those broadcasts to get the passwords to these events. And what's even better for PokerNews readers is that we've partnered with 888poker to offer some great added value freerolls in March. The freerolls are password protected, and the passwords can be found in our exclusive PokerNews Discord Channel. 888poker Ambassador Kara Scott Breaks Down Tips For Your First Live Poker Tournament Participate in Contests 888poker regularly shares contests and promotions across their social media channels, where tickets, buy-ins and more are up for grabs. Want a chance to win tournament tickets? # 888poker (@888poker) If you win one of the tickets up for grabs, you'll likely have the chance to play in a higher buy-in tournament than you usually would, and even just getting the min-cash in one of those events could propel you on your poker journey. 888poker Ambassador Vivian Saliba Falls Short of Mystery Bounty Festival Title Complete Challenges If you explore the 888poker lobby, you'll often find incentives and challenges that will help you add to your bankroll. By participating in leaderboard contests and challenges, you could win tickets, buy-ins and other prizes. Again, this is another avenue to play bigger events with more eye-popping prize pools. Another way to find extra value is to use special deposit codes, which can help stretch your bankroll further with extra bonuses. For example, if you download 888poker via PokerNews and create your free account. 888poker will give you a free $88 worth of cash game and tournament tickets this is a free 20 for residents of the United Kingdom just for reaching this stage. Your first deposit is matched 100% up to $400 as a releasable bonus. You have 90 days to release as much bonus as you can. Contact 888poker support for more details. Start Slow Building a bankroll to be proud of doesn't happen overnight, so take your time. Play smaller buy-ins until you're ready to move up in stakes. It's also one of the optimal ways to find out if you have the skills for higher-stakes poker games. Exclusive PokerNews 888poker Freeroll Passwords for March Risk Management Risk management is a key factor in building your bankroll. The more funds in your poker purse compared to the buy-ins you are playing will reduce the chances of your balance being $0. Of course, you could take some shots, and if that doesn't pay off, you could start again at the bottom. However, the idea is to evolve and increase your bankroll constantly. It's much better to play 100 $1 tournaments than one $100 tournament, volume is key, and it lets you get the most out of your bankroll. And remember, you should play safe and within your limits. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print Tara Reade falsely accused Joe Biden of sexual assault during the 2020 presidential campaign and now she has announced that she is defecting to Russia. Reade announced on Russian state TV: You can watch the live broadcast might not be the bombshell that Russia is hoping for since less than 200 people have tuned in. Reade's accusation against Biden was aimed at the 2020 election. Is this move about Ukraine support, or the 2024 election? 2/https://t.co/fAJ4JQxkzY capitolhunters (@capitolhunters) May 30, 2023 Russian media announces that Biden accuser Tara Reade is now in Russia. Russian spy Marina Butina is helping her get citizenship. pic.twitter.com/pP9p8hRcFw Don Moynihan (@donmoyn) May 30, 2023 Reade is now in Russia, where her buddy spy Marina Butina is helping her get her Russian citizenship. There was never any credible evidence that could be found to support Reades claim. Unlike E. Jean Carroll, who did have enough evidence to convince a jury that she had been sexually abused by Donald Trump, the investigation into Reades allegation revealed a person with a history of grifting and other potential problems. Reade has been turning up at pro-Russia events since the invasion of Ukraine, so her move is not a surprise, but in case anyone thinks that bringing up the name Tara Reade will carry any weight with voters and level the playing field for Trump, her move to Russia should put an end to that idea. Joe Biden has been in public life for a half of a century. If those dark scandals existed, they would have surfaced long before 2020. Reades allegation fell apart, just like the conspiracy theories Jim Jordan and others are investigating in the House of Representatives. Tara Reade is publically what she has been for yearsa Russian asset. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print A federal court has imposed a Friday deadline on the DOJ to answer media requests for the release of information about who bailed out George Santos. The press has filed a request to unseal the documents with the court: NEW: New York federal court sets Friday deadline for Justice Dept and defense attorneys to respond to media request to unseal details about who provided Rep. George Santos's (R-NY) bail in federal criminal case earlier this monthhttps://t.co/4BUHtaGdfv Scott MacFarlane (@MacFarlaneNews) May 31, 2023 The answer to the question of who posted bail for Rep. Santos could be both very interesting and telling. If somebody within the Republican Party posted bail for Santos that would indicate that they are planning on doing nothing to get rid of the indicted congressman because they value his vote more than they value the House. George Santos is currently facing 13 federal charges, including seven charges of wire fraud, three charges of money laundering, one count of theft of public funds, and two counts of making false statements to the House of Representatives. As soon as Kevin McCarthy linked himself, and by extension the Republican Party to Santos, this sort of situation was bound to happen. If a high-profile donor bailed out Santos that would raise more questions than answers. How deep does the George Santos corruption run within the Republican Party? The nation could get its first insight into an answer on Friday. Kyle Busch held off Denny Hamlin through a series of late restarts to win the chaotic, caution-filled NASCAR Cup Series race at World Wide Technology Raceway just outside of St. Louis in overtime Sunday. Bubba Wallace brought out the 11th and final yellow when his brake rotor let go with five laps remaining. Busch won a green-white-checkered shootout to the finish. There also were two red flags to go with a two-hour weather delay that caused the mid-afternoon race to finish in the twilight. Hamlin finished second while Joey Logano, the winner a year ago in the Cup Series debut at the track, got around Kyle Larson on the final lap to finish third. Martin Truex Jr. rounded out the top five ahead of Ryan Blaney, last weeks winner at Charlotte. Read moreKyle Busch holds off Denny Hamlin for NASCAR Cup Series win outside St. Louis Eliezer Eli Badillo has been named as an assistant principal at Highland Springs Middle School for the upcoming 2023-24 school year. His appointment as an assistant principal for the districts new middle school was approved during the regular meeting of the Aiken County Board of Education Read moreBadillo named assistant principal at Highland Springs Middle School for upcoming 2023-24 school year Officers from the Aiken Department of Public Safety and the Office of State Fire Marshal, along with American Red Cross volunteers, spent Saturday in Crosland Park installing and checking fire alarms in residents' homes. Read moreCrosland Park residents get new fire alarms with help from local, state fire agencies The operations and day-to-day control of 121-year-old Montana State Capitol changed hands Thursday, somewhat unceremoniously, coming under primary control of the state Legislature. House Bill 856 from House Speaker Matt Regier, a Kalispell Republican, cleared the Legislature easily; its final vote in the House of Representatives was 95-1. The bill was perhaps the most tangible distillation of the Legislature's efforts to establish equal footing as a branch of state government. The body meets for just 90 days, often less, every two years. And while proposals to move to annual sessions have quieted in recent years, lawmakers have established new duties such as interim finance committees to conduct oversight of agency spending in order to harden its presence throughout the year. The bill landed on Gov. Greg Gianforte's desk May 12. By law, the Republican governor had 10 days to sign the bill into law, veto it or a follow a more passive route he elected to use here taking no action on the bill in that timeframe, allowing it to become law. Since the Legislature adjourned May 2, Gianforte has curbed other efforts by the Legislature to gain ground from its biennial status. The governor vetoed pay raises for lawmakers, which would have raised wages from $16 per hour to $24, as well as a bill to sharpen the Legislature's ability to muscle the executive branch into compliance with its audit functions. The second floor, where the governor and the Secretary of State offices are housed, remains under the executive branch's purview. The arrangement came after some amendments to the bill during the legislative process to ostensibly win over the support of the executive. The Department of Administration, which previously managed operations in the building, raised numerous concerns about the bill during the session, including issues about maintenance, cleaning, liabilities and more. DOA previously handled everything soup to nuts from the snow removal to power, lights, water, internet and emergency repairs like when two basement bathrooms in the Capitol flooded during the session that just ended, department director Misty Ann Giles told lawmakers earlier this year. There's no doubt the legislative and executive branches have enjoyed some harmony over GOP priorities like tax reform and abortion restrictions. Still, tension remains. Early in HB 856's process the governor publicly said he had concerns about the bill and a spokesperson for Gianforte said Thursday the governor's inaction on the bill was intentional. "As with all bills that reach the governor's desk, the governor carefully reviewed HB 856 and chose not to sign it," press secretary Kaitlin Price said in an email. "While there are many successes from the legislative session, from tax cuts to pro-housing reforms to pro-student, pro-parent education reforms, some legislators' commitment to putting Capitol parking space assignments into Montana law and spending $25 million to renovate their space is not on the list." Regier in a phone interview Thursday said the bill was about equal footing as a coequal branch. "I think no matter whos in the Legislature and whos in the exec(utive), Id imagine the executive would want control of everything like they have in the past," Regier said Thursday when asked to respond to comment from the governor's office. "Thats not equitable. Were two branches of government, we should be in control of our space and the executive should be in control of their space and thats the way we set it up." The Capitol complex proposal, drummed up by legislative leadership in both parties before the session, maintained its bipartisan support even during an increasingly divisive session. While the Republican supermajority of the last session had the votes to shepherd the proposal through the Legislature on its own, Democrats made up 46 of the bill's 81 co-sponsors. The bill allocates $50 million to be split between executive and legislative branches for long-range maintenance projects for the Capitol building that will be available by the end of June. The Legislative Council, made up of legislative leadership, will serve as a long-range building committee to recommend construction and remodeling priorities to the Legislature and Department of Administration. "For too long, the legislative branch has ceded too much of its power to the executive branch, including the right to decide how we use our own space," House Minority Whip and Butte Democrat Derek Harvey said in a statement. "With this bill, I'm hopeful we'll be able to bring about changes that make the Legislature more transparent, accessible and open for public participation." "Republican leadership is excited to get to work on long-term planning for better and more efficient use of space in the state Capitol building," a spokesperson for the Senate GOP said Thursday. The speaker said he has no personal rift with the governor's office, but added lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have expressed some frustration with other legislation being vetoed, particularly transparency measures. Earlier this month the governor vetoed House Bill 693, which would have barred state agencies from withholding public records that were part of litigation; Gianforte wrote in his veto letter the bill would only benefit trial lawyers, not bolster the public's right to know. The governor last week shot down a separate attempt by the Legislature to sharpen its oversight of the executive branch by vetoing Senate Bill 73. That proposal, from Sen. Tom McGillvray, a Billings Republican, would have made executive branch officials subject to an official misconduct charge if they withheld materials sought by the Legislature's audit division. The charge was a misdemeanor, but could have resulted in a government official losing their job. During the last interim session, McGillvray and Legislative Auditor Angus Maciver raised concerns about "increasing" resistance from agencies. During the legislative session, the executive branch maintained its opposition to McGillvray's SB 73, even after he had amended the bill to clarify only an intentional withholding of materials could result in an official misconduct charge. In his veto letter on May 19, Gianforte was adamant that the bill could lead to the audit division's work trampling personal privacy rights of state employees. His veto letter was accompanied by a letters from officials with the Department of Administration, Department of Public Health and Human Services, Department of Natural Resources and Conservation and Montana Federation of Public Employees the state employees' union urging him to reject the bill. "The Montana Constitution directs that I, as governor, 'see that the laws are faithfully executed,'" Gianforte wrote. " Giving an unelected bureaucrat such unfettered authority, especially without safeguards for Montanans' privacy interests, is unacceptable." Maciver had, during the bill's hearings, pushed against this notion that the bill would disrupt the status quo. He provided to the committee a contract signed in January for a third-party contractor to review personally identifiable health information in order to properly conduct its claims audit. Despite the Department of Administration's testimony against the bill, he noted, the department had cosigned the audit contract. "That's been occurring for three decades," Maciver told lawmakers. "It's never been an issue that that was how the work was done and it's done that way because it has to be done that way in order for it to be a valid audit. So the idea that were embarking in new territory, I just wanted to make sure the committee understood that this work is going on right now, has been for a long time and we do it in cooperation with the Department of Administration." McGillvray's bill reached the two-thirds support threshold to trigger a poll of lawmakers to attempt a veto override. Regier said several veto override efforts are already underway; he had just returned three votes to override vetoes this week. "I'd like to see that one overturned," Regier said of the veto on SB 73, giving teeth to the legislative auditor. "That's the foundation of good governance." According to the Secretary of State's Office listing online, lawmakers have been polled on 16 bills that were vetoed but met the two-thirds support threshold. The override polls are due back 30 days after the veto. The first round of override polls are due June 2, with following batches of polls due back to the Secretary of State on June 8, 13 and 15. U.S. births were flat last year, as the nation continues to see fewer babies born than it did before the pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday released provisional birth data for last year. A little under 3.7 million babies were born in the U.S. last year, about 3,000 fewer than the year before. Births to moms 35 and older continued to rise, with the highest rates in that age group since the 1960s. But those gains were offset by record-low birth rates to moms in their teens and early 20s. Read moreU.S. births in 2022 didn't return to pre-pandemic levels An army of attorneys from across the U.S. will descend on Charleston's federal courthouse this week for a closely watched trial involving manmade environmental toxins and the company that created Post-it Notes and Scotch Tape. Read moreCharleston's 4 Corners of Law is epicenter for high-stakes chemistry test. Jurors wanted. COLUMBIA Richland County School District One's administration is working to mend a $6.6 million hole in its planned 2023-24 budget after Richland County Council didn't give the district the property tax increase district leaders were seeking. The council voted 7-4 to approve a district budget without any new taxation May 25, effectively denying the district's request for a tax hike and approving $6.6 million less in funding than the district had sought and anticipated. If that vote is finalized by the council as expected June 6, the district will need to make cuts in its planned spending. District leaders said they aren't sure what they'll trim. "Everything's up in the air," Richland One's Chief Operations Officer Edward Carlon said after the school board's May 30 meeting. Since staffing costs make up about 85 percent of expenditures, the district will likely have to look there for possible cuts, Carlon said. Board chair Cheryl Harris said she wants to avoid changing any of the planned raises for district staff, which accounted for some of the increased spending the tax hike was meant to help fund. She instead suggested looking at departmental budgets for cuts. "At the end of the day we certainly don't want to slight our faculty and staff," she said during the May 30 meeting. Richland One's initial 2023-24 budget also included $1.6 million for the district to staff its expanding metal detector usage, which Carlon said was a "high priority to keep" as security is a big concern. After the board meeting, Harris said she was hopeful for a "magic wand" that would would avoid the needs for cuts, such as money from the state. While the budget impasse in the Statehouse means the district doesn't know how much state money it'll get for the 2023-24 year, Carlon told the board that even if state funding exceeds the amount the district has planned for, it would likely still only mean around another million dollars in revenue. County Council chair Overture Walker said in a May 26 interview the council's opposition to a school district tax increase is an effort to reconcile local agencies' needs with county residents' ability to absorb tax hikes. "Our job is to take into account the needs of not only the millage agencies (like school districts) but also the needs of our residents," he said. Richland One asked the county for less of a tax increase than it had originally planned to request, but even if they'd asked for a smaller hike, Walker said he thought the council's analysis would have been the same, pointing to the tough economic position that some taxpayers are in. South Carolina residents don't pay school operating property taxes on their primary residences, but do on property such as cars, businesses or investment property. The neighboring Richland Two school district, which serves 28,500 students mostly in northeast Richland County, did not ask the county for a tax increase. Walker said that difference did not affect his vote in favor of a district budget without a tax increase, since the council takes a "holistic" approach to potential tax increases. But council member Don Weaver, who also voted for a district budget without a tax increase, said in a May 26 interview the different requests between the two districts "absolutely" played into his vote, since Richland One and Two are subject to the same state mandates. "Richland Two is either doing a better job of balancing their budget or they're able to be more frugal somewhere along the line," Weaver said, though he added that he understands Richland One faces challenges like older school buildings. Click here for more news from Columbia, S.C. CAYCE Customers are climbing the walls at the newest business in Cayce. Capital Climbing Cayce opened its doors at Parkland Plaza on May 30 to those who backed the project in advance. The gym will open to the public on June 10. It adds an outdoor attraction in the Midlands that had been lacking as the community becomes more of a draw to outdoor enthusiasts. The gym has more than 2,000 feet of space for those who want to work on bouldering and rock climbing at different levels of difficulty, with marked routes on the walls to follow. The walls rise up to eight feet and are inclined outward, with thick padding welcoming those who have lost their grip. For those who like to rock climb, having a spot right in Cayce to enjoy the sport is a boon. "It's good to have good bouldering here, five minutes from my apartment," said Garfield Fowler, a University of South Carolina student who was trying out the new walls on the first day that members could use the space. The idea is to have a destination for those who love rock climbing and bouldering but also have a place where newcomers can try the sport, owner Chris Neal said. Capital Climbing even has climbing shoes in a variety of sizes that can be rented. "One of the things that we wanted to offer was the opportunity to walk by, come in off the the street and not feel like they werent welcome," Neal said. It has taken months to get the space open for customers. Years ago the space was a dollar store, Neal said. To convert it, he had to remove the drop ceiling and vinyl floors, then work with a Utah company, Vertical Solutions, to install walls and rock pads. The space also needed a new roof and air-conditioning system. The climbing walls include a Kilter Board, which has a huge variety of holds and is electronic, so can be programmed with an app to highlight routes of varying difficulty. It slopes inward at 45 degrees from vertical. Some space at the gym allow children to climb, Neal said, adding that he has brought his own kids in to test the difficulty for younger customers. Scouts' designer Scout Motors, which will build pickups and SUVs in Blythewood, has made one of its most important decisions as it ramps up. Scout has selected Chris Benjamin as its chief design officer, the company announced May 30. Benjamin is a veteran of automotive design, working with such brands as Jeep, BMW and Ram Trucks. Most recently he was leading interior designs at at Stellantis North America, the parent company of Chrysler. His thumb prints are all over many of the most beloved off-road vehicles in the market today," Scout Motors CEO Scott Keogh said. Benjamin said in a statement that Scout's classic designs have been among his favorites. "They created the archetype for the modern SUV in the 60s and proved that a daily driver could also be a weekend adventurer," Benjamin said. "My task now is to balance the iconic design language of the past with all of the innovative possibilities that electrification unlocks." The company, part of Volkswagen, picked Blythewood in March for its $2 billion assembly plant. Production there is projected to start at the end of 2026. Esther's closes Richard Conklin, sounded like anything but someone who was done with restaurants as he announced the closing of Esther's Soul Food + Kitchen, the restaurant in the Village at Sandhill. Conklin, who announced the closing of the restaurant on its Facebook page on May 21, talked about the challenges of the restaurant industry but also sounded like new plans are already underway. "I'm working on a lot of things right now," Conklin said. "I am not giving up." One new thing already has been rolled out: Conklin will be doing live cooking shows in Instagram and pop-up soul food events, with the first set for June 25 at 730 Polo Road. COLUMBIA Efforts are underway to relocate some 19 residents who lost their homes at the Tropical Ridge Apartments in a May 26 fire that also claimed the life of an Irmo firefighter. Housing for the displaced residents will primarily be at three other Columbia housing complexes owned by parent company Affordable Housing Preservation Corporation. "It doesn't matter if it's 19 or 900 people when someone loses everything," said Barbara Cocciolo, executive director of the Florida-based nonprofit. She said the company is also working with the Red Cross to provide for the residents. Meanwhile, the multi-agency investigation continues into what caused the blaze and subsequent building collapse that led to the death of Irmo firefighter James "J." Muller, and sent a total of seven firefighters and two residents to the hospital. In a phone interview May 30, Cocciolo said AHPC hopes to rebuild the damaged structure at Tropical Ridge, one of 14 buildings at the site in the St. Andrews area of western Columbia. However, the company cannot say definitively until it sees the outcome of the ongoing investigation. Authorities have not publicly confirmed any theories about the origins of the fire, which caused the structure to collapse with several firefighters inside and sent a dense plume of black smoke into the surrounding area. The Columbia Police Department on May 30 asked the public to submit any audio, video or photographic evidence they may have to aid in the ongoing investigation. "We will continue to work closely with the authorities, affected families and the community as we move forward from this tragic incident," AHPC spokesman Christopher Walker said a May 30 statement. "Our focus remains on providing support and assistance to those impacted by this devastating fire," Walker said. "We will update the public with any significant developments as they unfold." The apartment owner initiated a response plan that includes temporary housing in other AHPC properties, clothing, food and personal care items, and counseling services, Walker said. He also expressed condolences for the loss of Muller, the 25-year-old Irmo firefighter who was among three battling the blaze who became trapped when the building collapsed. Though all three were rescued, Muller later died of his injuries. A funeral service for Muller will be 2 p.m. May 31 at Riverland Hills Baptist Church in Irmo. Fire Department officials for Irmo, a suburb of Columbia just west of the St. Andrews area where the fire took place, are not participating in the investigation. They are instead taking the week to focus on mourning their loss and recovering lost equipment from the fire. Memorial donations in honor of Muller can be made to the Irmo Fire Foundation at irmofirefoundation.com. Click here for more news from Columbia, S.C. COLUMBIA Along with the usual flowers, candles and balloons at makeshift memorials, one on Springtree Drive includes water bottles to honor a 14-year-old shot fatally in the back after being falsely accused of shoplifting water bottles by a gas station owner. The May 28 shooting has struck a chord in Richland County, with community members, politicians and the school where Cyrus Carmack-Belton was a student expressing various levels of outrage, sorrow and shock. Rick Chow, the 58-year-old owner of an Xpress Mart Shell gas station on nearby Parklane Road, has been charged with murder in the shooting. Chow shot at customers in two earlier cases investigated by the Sheriff's Department, but neither resulted in criminal charges, the department said May 31. Chow made an initial appearance before a judge at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center on May 30 but is awaiting a hearing to determine whether he will be allowed out on bond. Chow's attorney's office declined to comment May 31. Carmack-Belton's funeral will begin at noon June 3 at Second Nazareth Baptist Church in Columbia, with a 3-6 p.m. viewing the day before. A community grieves People stopped by the gas station May 31 to take photos of the storefront, which had been spray-painted with the teenager's name and the number 14 for his age. The area was much more subdued than on May 29, when dozens of people gathered outside the gas station in northeast Richland County. Cheers erupted when Richland Coroner Naida Rutherford announced that Chow had been charged with murder, followed by calls from the crowd for justice for the teenager a call echoed on a sign at his memorial that read, "Justice for King Cyrus." "It's another young Black life gone," said the Rev. Rufus Cunningham, who stopped May 31 to see the gas station. "Humanity where is it? Where are we going?" This tree on Jungle Road, marked by a white dot, is one of many on Edisto Beach identified as hazardous set to be removed by Dominion Energy. Dropping limits on new health centers could spur neighboring states to cross border into S.C. SUNSET The United States Supreme Court has decided not to hear an appeal by a Pickens County wedding and events venue in a case brought by multiple environmental groups. The Supreme Court denied writ of certiorari to Arabella Farm, which had the support of the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), in its argument that environmental groups lacked standing to sue the farm over alleged river pollution under the Clean Water Act. The farm had argued environmental groups didnt have grounds to sue because the state had already started an enforcement against it for failing to obtain permits before beginning to clear 20 acres of land. Now the case will return to the U.S. District Court in Greenville to argue the merits of the lawsuit and any potential penalties against the farm. In 2017, the owners of Arabella Farm began to clear 20 acres for a working farm with an orchard, vineyard and an event barn to host weddings and parties. The owners claimed the land clearing fell under an agricultural exemption of the Clean Water Act and did not require stormwater permits, according to case documents. The venue is located near Jocassee Gorges along S.C. Highway 11 and is bordered by three waterways, including the Lower Eastatoee River, a trout-fishing destination. A 2019 investigation by DHEC revealed inadequate stormwater controls, significant erosion, and off-site impacts, according to the case summary. In August 2019, DHEC sent a cease and desist letter, followed in September by a Notice of Alleged Violation and scheduled a private enforcement conference with the landowners. Upstate Forever, South Carolina Trout Unlimited and Naturaland Trust filed a lawsuit in April 2020. A month later, Arabella Farm entered a consent agreement with DHEC to pay a $6,000 civil penalty, obtain a pollution discharge permit, submit a stormwater plan and site stabilization plan, and conduct a stream assessment and any recommended remediation. In doing so, the farm and state argued the environmental groups could not sue because enforcement had already started. U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Dawson sided with the farm and dismissed the case but the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit reversed the decision. Now the environmental groups have won that argument and the case returns to Greenville. Lauren Megill Milton, an attorney with the South Carolina Environmental Law Project, which is representing the environmental groups, said her clients were pleased with the decision to uphold the Clean Water Acts requirement to give public notice and provide the public an opportunity to participate in administrative enforcement. Our clients have worked tirelessly to protect the fragile, unique properties in their care so that future generations can enjoy the wonder and beauty they possess, Milton said. We will work tirelessly to help them ensure Arabella Farm is held to account for its unlawful discharges of sediment-laden stormwater into South Carolina's top-tier trout habitats. An attorney representing Arabella Farm couldnt be reached for comment. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control reported nearly 1,100 new COVID-19 cases and 14 new deaths related to the virus May 20-27. After the public health emergency related to the pandemic ended May 11, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stopped reporting its COVID-19 community levels for every county. DHEC will continue its weekly public reports on COVID data until the end of the fiscal year June 30. After that, the agency will just publicly report vaccination data. The agency will still monitor the virus and bring back its dashboard if levels rise to the point of concern. Statewide numbers New cases reported: 1,096 Total cases in S.C.: 1,855,471 New deaths reported: 14 Total deaths in S.C.: 20,201 Percent of ICU beds filled (with COVID-19 and other patients): 66.34 percent Percent positive: 9.5 percent S.C. residents vaccinated As of May 31 in South Carolina, 62.3 percent of people who are eligible for the vaccine have received at least one dose, and 54.1 percent of eligible residents are considered fully vaccinated against the coronavirus. These numbers reflect all eligible residents in South Carolina, including young children. The latest data from DHEC shows 23.7 percent of children ages 5-11 have at least one vaccine dose and 5.5 percent among those under age 5. Hospitalizations Of the 52 COVID-19 patients hospitalized as of May 31, seven were in the ICU. DHEC no longer reports ventilator usage among hospital patients as of Dec. 20. What do experts say? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will still update its COVID Data Tracker with some measures on a weekly basis. As of May 16, there were 9,186 patients hospitalized due to COVID-19 in the last week, a 4.9 percent decrease since since April 19, an 11.8 percent decrease in new deaths compared to the prior week, and 17 percent of the population had received an updated booster shot. CARLISLE, Pa. (AP) The remains of five more Native American children who died at a notorious government-run boarding school in Pennsylvania over a century ago will be disinterred from a small Army cemetery and returned to descendants. The remains are buried on the grounds of the Carlisle Barracks, home of the U.S. Army War College. The children attended the former Carlisle Indian Industrial School, where thousands of Indigenous children were taken from their families and forced to assimilate to white society as a matter of U.S. policy. The Carlisle school put children through harsh conditions that sometimes resulted in their deaths. Founded by an Army officer, the school cut their braids, dressed them in military-style uniforms and punished them for speaking their native languages. European names were forced upon them. The Office of Army Cemeteries said the latest disinterment of remains will take place beginning Sept. 11. It will be the sixth such disinterment operation at Carlisle since 2017 as the military transfers remains to living family members for reburial. Twenty-eight children have been returned so far, according to cemetery officials. The remains to be moved this fall include those belonging to 13-year-old Amos LaFromboise, of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate tribe in the Dakotas, who died in 1879, only 20 days after his arrival at the school. The tribe had written to the U.S. Armys cemetery office in March to urge a faster return of the boy, who has been described as a son of one of the tribe's most celebrated leaders. The Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate want to bury him next to his father on the Lake Traverse Reservation in South Dakota. The other students to be moved died between 1880 and 1910 while attending the Carlisle school, according to the Office of Army Cemeteries. They are Edward Upright from the Spirit Lake Tribe of North Dakota, Beau Neal from the Northern Arapaho Tribe of Wyoming, Edward Spott from the Puyallup Tribe of Washington state, and Launy Shorty from the Blackfeet Nation of Montana. More than 10,000 children from more than 140 tribes passed through the school between 1879 and 1918, including famous Olympian Jim Thorpe. Starting with the Indian Civilization Act of 1819, the U.S. enacted laws and policies to establish and support Native American boarding schools across the nation. Hundreds of thousands of Indigenous children were taken from their communities and forced into boarding schools that focused on assimilation. The federal government has been investigating its past oversight of the boarding schools. FOLLY BEACH It's been an expensive task for this beach city to keep its head above water in recent years. Fresh loads of sand have been dumped five times on Folly Beach in the last three decades, a feat totaling $77 million in federal tax dollars and local funds arranged from the city, according to data from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The federal government has allocated another $27 million for the emergency replacement of the equivalent of 90,000 dump truck loads of sand here in early 2024. A number of factors have contributed to the frequent erosion seen on the beach. Scientists believe climate change, sea level rise and increasing storminess is at play. But Folly Beach is a special in the eyes of the federal government because it is located down drift of the Charleston Harbor and its federally created jetties. These underwater rock walls span three miles into the water from the shorelines of Sullivan's and Morris islands. They trap sand around Sullivan's Island which prohibits the sand from flowing naturally down to Folly Beach, said Nicole Elko, president of Elko Coastal Consulting. "For that reason, the only addition of sand that Folly receives is from renourishment," said Elko, who is working as a consultant for Folly Beach. The last few coastal storms to reach South Carolina took a toll on Folly Beach, too. Emergency renourishments were done in 2005 because of destruction from Hurricane Ophelia and in 2018 because of hurricanes Irma and Matthew. Folly Beach lost a good bit of sand during Ian last year, too. And the city had already hit its renourishment triggers prior to the storm. How it works The process for renourishment is tedious and includes several steps. Engineering and design plans need to be on par before crews begin the work. But once ready, contractors use a vacuum-like drill to agitate sand down at the seabed of a body of water. The sand then makes its way through the dredge itself. And depending on the distance from the selected seabed to the shore, the sand can be pumped directly on the beach. Earthmoving equipment, primarily bulldozers, are then used to settle and shape the sand based on the desired design, said Jeff Livasy, the head of civil works for the Army Corps' Charleston District. Sand can come from several "borrow areas," but it has to be compatible with the beach. The Folly River has been used in the past for Folly Beach. There have been hiccups with this, though. Rocks or cemented sands were deposited on the beach during a previous renorishment. It is unclear what year it happened. "We assessed it and it looked like the right type of material," Livasy said. "But how much of it was cemented together and how, yes, it can come through in large chunks like it did in that renourishment cycle, was unfortunate." The next renourishment project is now in the design phase, and Livasy said the Corps will try to avoid a repeat of the last mishap. "But at the end of the day, we have the borrow sites that we have, and we will make use of them the best we can," Livasy said. Preserving new sand Renourishment projects are part of the bigger beach preservation plan on Folly Beach, Elko said. Putting the sand back on the beach is the most important part. "But then dune restoration, which includes sand fencing and native vegetation planting, is another piece of that preservation project," Elko said. Another important method is land management, or not building structures on the beach. This pertains to homes built on super beachfront lots that sit further out toward the shore than others. "You want to build your houses behind the dunes," Elko said. "You don't want them out, exposed to wave energy, and you don't want the environment to be affected in that way." Elko said the city is currently trying to stop such construction. After the 2018 renourishment, the South Carolina Environmental Law Project filed a lawsuit challenging the ownership of newly created land on behalf of the city, Coastal Conservation League, Save Folly Beach and a group of homeowners. The law project said a group of homeowners of super beachfront property claimed ownership of the new dry ground and took steps to pursue development there before the property reverted back to beach and ocean. Houses on these super beachfront lots have been condemned repeatedly and add to the erosion issues. "Are we really okay with people building houses that we know are going to be underwater within a year or two after a renourishment?" asked Amy Armstrong, an attorney with the law project. "Is that a good policy for the state?" Folly Beach Mayor Tim Goodwin said although the case is very involved, it's meant to protect the city's natural resources. Oral argument for the case were heard before the S.C. Court of Appeals on May 11. I was at my daughters home a few years ago doing some painting, and yes, these are things that retired fathers are happy to do. She was in another room organizing a closet while listening to some music and the Michael Jackson song, The Man in the Mirror was playing. I listened intently. C Read moreLife is an ongoing transformation process Between the Stacks: Go back in time for '80s trivia Shes the Veteran announces its third annual Shes the Veteran Gala will be held June 10 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Halls Signature Events located at 5 Faber St. in downtown Charleston. Read moreShe's the Veteran to host gala for women who served MYRTLE BEACH A Black tourist who visited Myrtle Beach for spring break has sued the Horry County Police Department, claiming officers falsely charged her with fraud despite allegedly looking for a White suspect in the case. Ieshia Bryant, of Savannah, Ga., claims in the lawsuit filed May 30 that she was falsely accused of using someone elses credit card without permission on April 2, 2021, to withdraw $400. The money was allegedly withdrawn from an ATM at a CVS Pharmacy along 38th Avenue North in Myrtle Beach. Bryant claims Horry Police detectives falsely accused her because she used the ATM that day to withdraw $60. Bryant was visiting Myrtle Beach with her daughter, boyfriend and friends, the lawsuit states. Horry County Police declined to comment on the pending litigation. Bryant accused the detectives of making faulty assumptions and not considering other evidence before arresting her, such as how the stolen card was allegedly used at five other ATMS in the county and how the identified suspect in the case was allegedly a White female, the lawsuit states. Despite her charges being dismissed, Bryant said she has lost her two jobs and faced stigma due to the false arrest, according to the lawsuit. Ms. Bryant had no criminal record and was a victim of being in the wrong place at the wrong time, the lawsuit states. Bryant was allegedly contacted by the Savannah Police Department's financial crimes unit about a month after returning home from her Myrtle Beach trip in early April. A detective asked her if she had used a certain credit card at the Myrtle Beach CVS Pharmacy on April 2 to withdraw $400, the lawsuit alleges. Bryant denied that she used the card, but she admitted she had used the ATM that day. She also confirmed that it was her in some photographs the detective showed her from the scene, the lawsuit alleges. Then, a Horry County Police detective informed her a few months later that a warrant had been issued for her arrest on a charge of financial transaction fraud worth $500 or less. Bryant was allegedly told she needed to return to Myrtle Beach or be extradited, according to the lawsuit Bryant traveled to the city and was arrested and booked into the J. Reuben Long Detention Center on Sept. 13, 2021, where she spent a day in jail. She posted bond and denied the charge during her court hearings. "Ms. Bryant was deprived of her rights through detention, was humiliated, embarrassed and put in fear by improper action of the Horry County Police Department," the lawsuit states. Bryant's charges were dismissed on Sept. 29, 2022, and the court issued an "Order for Destruction of Arrest Records" on Dec. 12, 2022, stating the charges were dismissed, the lawsuit states. The lawsuit alleges that Horry Police only reviewed the CVS Pharmacy theft, despite the victims credit card bank statements showing the stolen card being used at five Horry County locations. Bryant claims that Horry Police failed to consider other evidence, including verifying the amount Bryant withdrew compared to the $400 amount, verifying Bryant's bank statements, reviewing the other thefts and comparing Bryant's photograph with videos and photos from those scenes, the lawsuit states. Bryant claims that Horry Police had allegedly identified the suspect as a White female in the investigative notes but still arrested her, and allegedly claimed in her arrest warrant that the crime had occurred in Loris, instead of Myrtle Beach, the lawsuit states. Loris is about a 35-minute drive from the Myrtle Beach CVS Pharmacy. Since the arrest, Bryant claims she has lost both of her jobs working for Door Dash and Uber, where she had worked for several years. Bryant is asking for an unspecified monetary amount determined by a jury for damages and court costs, including attorney's fees, according to the lawsuit. FLORENCE Eight high school and college students signed on to be part of a "first-of-its-kind" apprenticeship program through the MUSC Health Florence Medical Center on May 31. Students will get hands-on experience this summer in taking care of patients in a hospital setting and work one-on-one with medical professionals in the different sites owned by MUSC Health Florence Medical Center. Students going through the program will earn their Certified Nursing Assistant certification. The program was the brainchild of LeAnn Hayes, workforce development coordinator at MUSC Health Florence Medical Center. She said the program comes at a time when there is a shortage of healthcare workers everywhere, including Florence, which created a new site in January, the MUSC Health Black River Medical Center in Cades. "We've had so many people contact us already about this and just word of mouth has gotten out," Hayes said. "And it's kind of exploded very quickly without us even starting the program yet." Prisma Health created a pilot nursing recruitment program last October at multiple colleges in South Carolina in response to the shortage of nurses. The eight students, who come from schools such as Florence-Darlington Technical College and Francis Marion University, will spend 132 hours in the classroom over the summer where they will learn to provide safe and competent patient care, MUSC Health Florence Assistant Chief Nursing Officer Patricia McLeod said. They'll then spend 48 hours working one-on-one with professionals in a real hospital environment working with patients. They will also be paid. Thirty-three people applied for the apprenticeship. Hayes said the entry-level program will help develop and keep people at MUSC, which in Florence includes Marion Medical Center, Mullins Nursing Center and the newly-opened Black River site. The apprenticeship will continue in the fall but there are no concrete plans on the structure of classes then. The program could expand to include radiology and pharmacy tech programs, Hayes said. "There's so many health care positions that we need to fill," Hayes said. There are over a hundred job openings in the system, MUSC Health Florence Human Resources Director Kelly Croshaw said. South Carolina had a little more than 38,000 employees in nursing and residential care facilities in 2022, according to data from the St. Louis Fed. This is the least amount of workers since 2013. A study found that half of nurses surveyed said they felt emotionally drained, used up and/or fatigued, while just under half said they were burnt out "a few times a week" or "every day." These feelings were especially prominent in nurses with 10 or fewer years of experience. The country also experienced its first decrease in the number of students in entry-level baccalaureate nursing programs, according to data from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. This ended a 20-year period of growth. As more experienced nurses retire, though, younger nurses are also deciding to leave the profession, Dr. Kelly Bouthillet, interim executive director of the South Carolina Nurses Association, said. "A lot of nurses are working in really challenging conditions with not enough staff, and adding to their stress when patients or families or others are not very nice to them or, you know, harassing," Bouthillet said. McLeod said the program can produce employees for MUSC that can replace positions left empty by those who left the position to further their education or moved to a new position. "You always have people that are trained and that are coming in to assume those roles. So we have great continuity in the care we are providing here," McLeod said. Hayes started spreading the word of the program when she started at MUSC in February. She went to job fairs and multiple schools to connect and present the program to those who could support it and share it with students. One of the people she met was Henry Dixon, the business liaison for Florence-Darlington Technical College. Dixon helps students choose their career and how to best pursue it. "How good is it when you can actually get a job while you're getting your degree in your field, that you're studying. ..." Dixon said. "It gives students a good jump start into their career." The list of students who will join the program are: Union Pier goes to the citys planning commission next week, but that wont be the real tiff. The planning commission debate will be about height, density, green space and affordable housing in the State Ports Authoritys plan for its downtown waterfront property. All of thats important, but it doesnt really give much sense of whether the project is actually viable. For that, you have to follow the money. Specifically, the tax money. Current estimates suggest it will take between $300 million and $400 million just to build the roads, drainage, sea wall, parks and basically the foundation for the redevelopment of Union Piers 64 acres. The port plans to sell the land to a private developer, but theres no way anyone can pay for all that and turn a profit. So the SPA is asking local governments for a TIF district, which stands for the decidedly unsexy but crucial term tax increment financing. In a TIF district, a government agrees to forego tax revenue generated by the property for a set amount of time, usually decades, so those funds can pay for the infrastructure. Heres the rub: Theres no guarantee all local governments will go along with that. And that could be a real problem. Most of the Union Pier attention to this point has been rightly focused on the city of Charleston, which has the most say over whats built on the property and, if City Council goes along with the port's plan, will likely agree to forego 100% of city property tax revenue for a TIF district. But city taxes alone arent enough. The port and its developer also need some buy-in from the school district and Charleston County Council. And quietly, theyve been talking to both. County Council Chairman Herb Sass says port officials have met with county staff twice, most recently last week, and government number crunchers are looking at their proposal. We havent talked about it yet, but council will have to vote on it, Sass says. The chairman says hes inclined to support some county participation in a Union Pier TIF district, but he doesnt know enough details yet to put a number to that which is probably the prevailing opinion on County Council. Some council members are leery of foregoing all property tax revenue on the valuable site for 20-30 years, while others say it doesnt make a lot of difference since they arent getting a dime from it now. Because, uh, its currently untaxed state property. Sass says county officials wont jump into the fray over the projects mass or density those are decisions for the city. Their primary concern is the revenue, which he notes will also include some accommodations and sales tax money. Bottom line, the county will be an important player in this Union Pier deal. Unless council agrees to let at least, say, half of its property tax revenue go toward the infrastructure, it could slow or stall the whole project. After all, the local landscape is littered with projects suffering from under-financed infrastructure. Now, the school district is as important as the county here. But, frankly, nobodys foolish enough to bank on the brand-new culture warrior-laden school board to make serious business decisions. So the port isnt counting on that gang. The countys a different story. Sass notes that TIF districts often pay off, and not just by building amenities, like parks and roads, that benefit everyone. The county and North Charleston created a TIF district for Centre Pointe years ago, and the area is now the heart of the states third-largest city. Money pours out of that place and into county coffers these days. Which may be partly why the county, unlike most governments, isnt raising taxes again this year. Centre Pointe has been such a bonanza that the county recently approved another TIF district for more development there. But will county officials look at Union Pier the same way? The fight over the height, density et al. at Union Pier may never end, but eventually the entire project will hinge on approval of a TIF district. When that happens, supporters and opponents will descend on County Council. If the port wants to make this a little easier, it might take note of the countys recent efforts in affordable housing. Perhaps a little more of that at Union Pier would make County Council more favorable toward a TIF district. Of course, the port and its developer will have to do that anyway to win support from Charleston City Council. That would make it not only a twofer, but a no-brainer. Because, honestly, more affordable housing and a TIF district is the only way this gets done. A desire to head off a Dakota Access-type protest is one reason the company behind the planned Midwest Carbon Express carbon dioxide pipeline has ruled out a route to the south of Bismarck, according to an analysis that Summit Carbon Solutions has filed with state regulators. Summit also cites several other reasons for putting the route to the north of Bismarck, where many landowners worry about safety and where some people and officials think it could impede the capital citys northward progression. Those reasons range from geography challenges to project delays and cost increases. "A southern route presents significant unknowns and risks -- including potential impacts to resources for which there may not be viable mitigation options, including the historically negative impact to tribal lands," the company concluded in its analysis submitted Tuesday to the state Public Service Commission, which is considering whether to permit the route. Summit's pipeline is to transport climate-warming CO2 emissions from dozens of ethanol plants in five Midwestern states to North Dakotas Oliver County for permanent storage underground. The PSC on Friday is holding the last of five public hearings on the project. It begins at 8:30 a.m. Central time in Russell Reid Auditorium at the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum on the Capitol grounds in Bismarck. Southern route analysis Summit analyzed a possible southern route at the request of the PSC after north Bismarck opposition surfaced, though the company states in its report that it had identified multiple potential routes at the beginning of the project, including an area from the University of Mary south to the Dakota Access oil pipeline crossing of the Missouri River just to the north of the Standing Rock Indian Reservation. An early proposal for DAPL called for the project to cross the river about 10 miles north of Bismarck, but the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers rejected the route in part because it was seen as a potential threat to Bismarck's water supply and because of its proximity to homes. The route was moved to the south, where it was met by heavy opposition from American Indian tribes and environmental groups who maintained the pipeline trespassed on tribal treaty lands and that a rupture would pollute Standing Rock's river water supply. Thousands of protesters camped in the area in 2016-17 and often clashed with law enforcement, leading to more than 750 arrests in a six-month span. Summit states in its analysis that "relocating the (CO2 pipeline) project would raise major concerns for area tribes and their supporters regionally and nationally." "Moving the pipeline to the south of Bismarck and moving a pipeline project away from non-tribal interests and lands would likely cause significant controversy due to further impacts to this historically sensitive area," the company wrote. Summit also said it would be "improbable" that the company could get required federal permits for a river crossing to the south of Bismarck "based on lessons learned from the Dakota Access Pipeline." The Corps faced lengthy litigation from tribes that reached the U.S. Supreme Court, and the agency is still working on a court-mandated environmental study of the DAPL river crossing six years after oil began flowing through the pipeline. The tribe did not immediately respond Wednesday to a Tribune request for comment on how it would have viewed a southern Bismarck route for the CO2 pipeline. Summit cited several other reasons that preclude a southern route, including: The project would have to negotiate a broader floodplain, and the pipeline would be more susceptible to adverse effects from river migration and scouring. The area is more prone to flooding, which could make construction more difficult. The area has a higher density of unstable slopes and landslides. There would be added river crossings. There are more "sensitive and historic" lands in the southern area, including Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery and Huff Indian Village State Historic Site. A reroute could delay the project up to two years. "Summit strongly believes that it has chosen the safest, most prudent route for the project based on a multitude of factors, and to reroute the project to the south of Bismarck at this stage of development would add unnecessary cost, schedule delay, and offset many of the impact mitigation measures that have been implemented," the company said. The citizen group North Dakota Energy Council, which formed to give Burleigh County residents and landowners a voice in the Summit pipeline debate, thinks "It's unfortunate that they're ruling (a south route) out entirely," said spokesman Dustin Gawrylow, director of the North Dakota Watchdog Network. "Its still our hope that the Public Service Commission will work with (Summit) to come up with a solution," he said. "Clearly when you've got the second-largest county in the state and all of the major political subdivisions and elected officials are concerned, hopefully the PSC will take that into account simply because it's a significant thing." PSC hearing The Friday hearing gives members of the public a chance to weigh in on the project before the PSC makes a decision on permitting the pipeline route in the state. It was scheduled after a March 14 hearing in Bismarck ran long and not everyone who wanted to speak got an opportunity. Since then, hearings also have been held in Gwinner, Wahpeton and Linton. The pipeline is to cross about 2,000 miles through Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, Minnesota and North Dakota. The project would cost an estimated $4.5 billion. About $898 million of that cost is for the North Dakota portion, according to the PSC. There would be 320 miles of pipeline in the state, along with aboveground facilities including pump stations. The project would pass through Burleigh, Cass, Dickey, Emmons, Logan, McIntosh, Morton, Oliver, Richland and Sargent counties. The Burleigh portion would consist of 41 miles of pipe. Burleigh County has passed ordinances related to hazardous liquids pipelines in response to the Summit debate. More information is at bit.ly/3UJKTvu. Some other North Dakota counties including Emmons also have passed ordinances to regulate the pipeline within their borders. The planned route is less than 2 miles from Bismarck's extraterritorial area at its closest point. Burleigh and Bismarck commissioners, as well as the Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association and the North Dakota Energy Council, have called for moving the pipeline, or delaying it until federal regulators craft new rules for CO2 pipelines. The federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration is updating safety regulations for CO2 pipelines in the wake of a CO2 pipeline operated by Denbury Gulf Coast Pipelines rupturing in Satartia, Mississippi, in 2020. PHMSA is conducting a two-day public meeting on CO2 pipeline safety this week in Des Moines, Iowa. Summit touts the overall safety record of the thousands of miles of CO2 pipelines that have operated in the U.S. for decades, including in western North Dakota. The company also has said that issues outlined by PHMSA in its Satartia Failure Investigation Report have been factored into the "planning, design, construction and operations" of the Midwest Carbon Express project. Summit is working to secure easements from property owners so it can place the pipeline on their land. Some reluctant landowners worry the company will resort to eminent domain -- the seizure of private property use, with compensation. The company has filed dozens of eminent domain lawsuits in South Dakota. But it also maintains it strives to come to agreeable terms with landowners, and that most support the project. The company states in its southern route analysis that it has secured easements for 71% of the proposed route in Emmons, Burleigh and Morton counties. The 2023 North Dakota Legislature considered several bills dealing with CO2 pipelines and eminent domain, but most of them failed. The Legislature also passed two bills aimed at limiting or stopping foreign countries and companies from owning, developing or having an interest in land in North Dakota. The state Attorney General's Office is investigating the ownership and investors of Summit Carbon Solutions at the request of a group of 31 North Dakota lawmakers. Summit maintains the lawmakers are "making unfounded accusations" after unsuccessfully targeting the company during the recently concluded legislative session. (Reporter David Velazquez contributed to this story.) For all its boasting about conservative lawmaking, one of the most consequential things the S.C. Legislature did this year was to grow our state government. And unlike a lot of things you could do that would result in a more expensive and more difficult to manage government with more separate agencies, this one wont provide any new services. To the contrary, bifurcating the Department of Health and Environmental Control could very well diminish the quality of services the current agency provides, by severing the structural link between health programs and environmental programs that were designed to protect public health: Think clean drinking water efforts, for example. Read moreEditorial: DHEC split grows government. There's a way to overcome that. FLORENCE COUNTY On a wooded bluff overlooking the Great Pee Dee River, a team of archaeologists digs into the Pee Dee region's past. Artifact by artifact, the team assembled with the help of the Archaeological Institute of the Pee Dee hopes it can reassemble the story of an area of South Carolina replete with history but largely neglected, they say. Weve got an incredible human history in this part of the world, an incredible history of humans and their interaction with the natural environment. Ninety eight percent of that history can only be understood through archaeology, said Ben Zeigler, Archaeological Institute of the Pee Dee chairman. Zeigler contends local history has been overlooked due to a lack of resources and a lack of development in the region. Since 2021, the institute has helped organize a number of digs and hosted lectures on area history. Now, its working on a comprehensive plan for archaeology in the Pee Dee, which will determine where the organization focuses its efforts. In May, a team of archaeologists spent 10 days excavating a spot off of the Pee Dee River in Florence County that they believe hosted a Native American settlement. A shovelful at a time, they sifted through the dirt, searching for evidence that people had once lived on the bluff. Previous surveys of the area uncovered evidence from the Mississippian period, which runs from about 1100 AD to contact with European settlers, said Chris Judge, secretary of the AIPD and an archaeologist at the University of South Carolina Lancaster. This is the zenith of Native American cultural complexity prior to Europeans arriving, right here in Florence County, he said. The Mississippians originated in what is now Oklahoma, slowly expanding and eventually displacing the woodland cultures that existed in South Carolina previously. However, Mississippian activity in the Pee Dee remains an enigma, according to Zeigler. Evidence of Mississippian settlement largely disappears beyond the east bank of the Pee Dee. Historians dont know why. Judge hopes that the teams work can begin filling in the gaps in understanding of the Mississippian period in the Pee Dee, as well as what interaction Native Americans at the time had with Spanish settlers as they traveled inland. Already, the archaeologists have uncovered a number of artifacts at the site in Florence County, most notably shards of pottery, some of which are stamped with a pattern unique to the period: the Mississippian Complicated Stamp, a winding crosshatch made with a wooden paddle. The pattern both distinguished the pots and made them easier to hold, according to Zeigler. Once identified, the artifacts will be stored at the Florence County Museum, which acts as the regional hub for the AIPD. Stephen Motte, curator of collections and interpretation at the museum, said historians know little about Native Americans in the Pee Dee. Few archaeologists have studied the area, and what is known is based on limited primary source material. The work done by the AIPD provides crucial clues as historians work to put the regions history back together. Having the institute available to the museum, that gives us the ability to more tightly focus on the Pee Dee so that over time, as they continue to work and make discoveries, we can better tell the story of the people who lived here before us, Motte said. Many think Native American activity in the Pee Dee was limited to small, roving bands that lived in the woods. Thats a misconception, Motte said. In fact, Motte and Zeigler said, societies in the region were large and complex. They had a complicated, hierarchical society. They frequently traded with each other. They grew corn and lived a sedentary life. People think that they dont know much because theres not much to know, Motte said. But thats not true. The work of telling a more complete story is tricky, though. Much of it is speculation based on incomplete data. Archaeologists must use the artifacts they find and the data they collect to imagine their way into the past, Judge said. Unearthing pieces of a stamped pots from hundreds of years ago is one thing. Imagining someone sitting in the dirt, holding a wooden paddle etched with the pattern, pressing it into the damp clay of the pot thats something else entirely. But as technology advances and archaeologists make more discoveries, theyre getting closer. At the end of May, the archaeologists along the Pee Dee River packed up their tools, filled in the holes and headed back to the lab, where they will spend the next months cataloging their findings and studying what theyve collected. For now, theyre hopeful they found something. A pattern of small, dark circles in the dirt could be a sign of post holes for a home built hundreds of years ago. But its just as likely that the circles are the remnants of long-dead trees, Judge said. Only with further research will they know for sure. COLUMBIA South Carolina National Guard troops will be deployed to the Texas border in the coming weeks to help combat drug trafficking and illegal immigration from Mexico, Gov. Henry McMaster announced May 31. Details on the deployment, including how many South Carolina troops will go and when, are still being worked out. The mission remains in the planning phase. The goal for their departure is July 1, according to McMaster's office. The announcement comes two weeks after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott sent letters to governors nationwide asking for assistance at the border following the end of Title 42 pandemic immigration restrictions. "I have directed the deployment of South Carolina National Guard troops to Texas to help hold the line on the Southern border," McMaster said in a statement. "The safety and security of South Carolinians require that we stop the drug cartels, criminals and terrorists from entering our country to peddle their poison." McMaster was among nine Republican governors who attended a May 22 border briefing hosted by Abbott at the Texas Governor's Mansion in Austin, where Abbott repeated his request for help. The cost of the impending South Carolina deployment is unknown. Texas has spent more than $4.5 billion on border security operations since March 2021, and the Texas Legislature is considering setting aside an additional $4.6 billion toward the effort for the next two years, Abbott wrote in his letter to governors. According to his letter, Texas authorities have seized more than 416 million lethal doses of fentanyl at the border during what Texas calls Operation Lone Star. They have also apprehended more than 376,000 migrants and charged over 25,000 with felonies. Along the entire southern border, illegal crossings have reached historic highs. Federal Border Patrol agents had 2.2 million interactions with migrants in the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30, with almost half resulting in expulsion. In the six months since, there have been 1.1 million encounters, according to a May 16 report from the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service. It specified that some migrants were counted more than once, as those sent back may have tried to re-enter repeatedly and were counted each time they were caught. It's not the first time McMaster has provided National Guard assistance on the southern border, though previous requests came from the federal government. In April 2018, he responded to an ask from then-President Donald Trump by offering to send troops. A month later, he signed off on deploying one UH-72 Lakota helicopter and three crew members from Greenville, according to his tweet at the time. Federal mobilization increased later. By spring 2021, roughly 300 South Carolina troops were stationed at points along the nation's 2,000-mile border with Mexico. They were among up to 4,000 National Guardsmen from more than 20 states mobilized to support federal agents on the southern border through fall 2021, said a spokesman for the Department of Defense's Joint Task Force North headquartered in Texas. McMaster and South Carolina's adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Van McCarty, visited National Guard soldiers in Texas earlier that year. About 50 South Carolina Guardsmen from a Rock Hill-based battalion are currently deployed to the Arizona border. They're assisting as part of a federal mission authorized last summer of up to 2,500 service members through this fall, according to the Texas-based federal command center. Emergency border restrictions enacted by the Trump administration in March 2020, known as Title 42, ended several weeks ago. The name comes from the section of a 1944 federal law allowing migration curbs for public health. Under the Trump-era authority, migrants were returned over the border and denied the right to seek asylum. President Joe Biden initially tried to end the practice last year, but Republicans sued, and courts temporarily kept the authority in place. The Associated Press reports that U.S. officials turned away migrants more than 2.8 million times under Title 42. But without any real consequences for illegally crossing the border, those caught and turned back could try again and again to make it through. Families and children traveling alone were exempt. Migrants are now essentially barred from seeking asylum in the U.S. if they did not first apply online or seek protection in the countries they traveled through. The legal pathways touted by the Biden administration consist of a program that permits up to 30,000 people a month from Haiti, Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela to enter if they apply online with a financial sponsor and enter through an airport. Up to 1,000 can enter daily through land crossings with Mexico if they snag an appointment on the app. If it works, the system could fundamentally alter how migrants come to the southern border. But Biden, who is running for reelection, faces withering criticism from migrant advocates, who say hes abandoning more humanitarian methods, and from Republicans, who claim hes soft on border security. The Associated Press contributed to this report. ROCK HILL A compromise to suspend the federal debt ceiling passed through the U.S. House of Representatives on May 31 despite multiple South Carolina lawmakers announcing not supporting the agreement. Four of the seven of the state's members of Congress publicly voted against the compromise, all Republicans Russell Fry of Surfside Beach, Nancy Mace of Charleston, Ralph Norman of Rock Hill and William Timmons of Greenville. Republicans Joe Wilson of Springdale and Jeff Duncan of Laurens joined the state's sole Democrat in Congress, Jim Clyburn of Columbia, by voting in favor the proposal. The bill passed by a margin of 314-117. Initially, opposition by S.C. House members, along with other House Democrats and Republicans, jeopardized the bill. Norman slammed the proposal in a House Rules Committee hearing on May 30, pledging to reject it unless additional amendments were made. "It's time to go back to the table," he told Fox News, "and negotiate and call their bluff on the fact that they're going to default. ... But to give the shop away as (House Speaker Kevin) McCarthy has done, in my opinion, is unexcusable." But it didn't kill the bill. Around 9:25 p.m., the House comfortably passed the proposal. The bill now heads to the Senate. Led by Norman, who vocally opposed the bill and voted against it in the Rules Committee on May 30, the South Carolina constituency represented a growing number of Republicans who expressed qualms about the lack of spending cuts in the deal. "I wanted to be a yes on this thing," Mace said in an interview with the War Room. "We got the bill text Sunday night. I stayed up until midnight reading it. I slept on it, woke up at 4 a.m., reread it again to make sure I knew what I was talking about. And I was angry." But two S.C. GOP representatives were among the 149 Republicans voting to raise the debt ceiling. In a statement to The Post and Courier, Wilson argued the proposal "advances the GOP's control-spending agenda significantly, on multiple fronts." "The 'Fiscal Responsibility Act,'" Wilson added, "will restore financial sanity and hold Washington accountable to the people." After months of false starts, Biden and McCarthy, R-Calif., came to an agreement to suspend the debt ceiling by two years on May 28. The bill features multiple additional stipulations, including work requirements for food stamps, cuts to the IRS and the approval of a natural gas pipeline. If Congress does not pass the bill by June 5, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the country would default, possibly delaying social security checks, stymying federal paychecks and increasing unemployment. McCarthy had expressed optimism that he could wrangle together 150 votes from Republicans, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., said on May 30. But after the bill barely eked its way out of the Rules Committee on May 31, the path to approving the bill in the house, which requires 218 total votes, seems muddier. On May 30, Norman, a member of the House Rule Committee, led a charge against the bill, appearing on Fox News and speaking from the courthouse steps, calling it "un-American" and vowing vote against it. It is Norman's most recent rebuke against McCarthy. Norman, who is a member of the House Freedom Caucus, joined 20 Republicans in January to vote against McCarthy's speakership appointment. Along with Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, Norman broke Republican ranks on the Rules Committee to oppose against the bill. Despite their disproval, the committee agreed to pass the proposal to Congress in a contentious 7 to 6 vote on May 30. Norman's push-back foreshadowed a wave of conservative opposition to the agreement, setting the stage for a turbulent few days in Congress. The turbulence will continue as the bill now reaches the Senate. South Carolina Republican U.S. Sens. Tim Scott and Lindsay Graham said they would not support the current proposal. Former S.C. Gov. Nikki Haley, who is running for president along with Scott, expressed disproval as well. "Is it in our best interest as a nation to allow Joe Biden someone we cannot trust on spending to have an open checkbook, no limit on the credit card, until the end of his term? My answer is no," Scott said to Axios. "The fact that the current deal allows for him to continue to spend however much he does with no limit is something that I can't support." The U.S. Senate on May 11, proposed dropping a 2022 federal designation of the northern long-eared bat as endangered. LANDRUM State investigators are looking into the police shooting of a man who police claimed was armed with a butcher knife in northern Spartanburg County. Two deputies with the Spartanburg County Sheriffs Office and an officer with Landrum Police Department shot and killed Freddie Edwards Jr. on May 29 in Landrum, authorities said. The State Law Enforcement Division said in a news release May 31 that Landrum police responded to a disturbance call at a residence off Randolph Avenue around 4 a.m. on May 29. They found Edwards, 58, who they said was armed with a knife, and Shana McClain, 53, who later died. Spartanburg County Coroner Rusty Clevenger said an initial exam showed McClain had multiple sharp-edged injuries. Spartanburg County Sheriff Chuck Wright told the media May 29 that officers unsuccessfully used a Taser weapon on Edwards and deployed a police dog against him twice. Wright said Edwards charged at the officers before they shot him. Lt. Kevin Bobo with SCSO said the agency wouldn't make further comments on Edwards' killing because of the active SLED investigation into the incident. Multiple other agencies arrived at the scene to assist: South Carolina Highway Patrol, Inman Police Department, Campobello Police Department and Polk County Sheriffs Office from North Carolina, according to SLED. SLED said it would not release more information at this time because its conducting a criminal investigation into the police shooting, which it does when requested by local departments. The investigation report will be submitted to prosecutors for review. PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 02:10:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 935 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Record Q1 2023 gross revenues of $9.5M, increase of 315% from Q1 2022Record Q1 2023 cash provided by operations of $1.5M, compared to $104K in Q1 2022Q1 2023 gross profit of $1.7M, increase of 102% from Q1 2022LANGLEY, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 30, 2023 / Adastra Holdings Ltd. (CSE:XTRX) (FRA:D2EP) ("Adastra" or the "Company"), a leading cannabis processor and producer of two top Canadian concentrates brands, with a focus on product innovation and commercialization for adult-use and medical markets, is pleased to report financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023."Our triple-digit revenue growth from Q1 2022 as compared to Q1 2023 is a testament to the robust market demand for our exceptional products and our strong presence across Canada," said Michael Forbes, Chief Executive Officer. "Our ownership of both the legendary legacy brand, Phyto Extractions, and the dynamic in-house brand, Endgame Extracts, has solidified our position in the Canadian concentrate market with numerous top-selling products." "I am immensely proud of our team's innovative mindset and unwavering dedication, which have been instrumental in our accomplishments. Their hard work and creativity have been the driving force behind our remarkable results," added Forbes. "Together, we are poised to continue pushing boundaries and fueling future growth, all with the ultimate goal of creating long-term value for our customers, partners, and shareholders." Key Q1 2023 Financial HighlightsGross revenues of $9.5M in Q1 2023, compared to $2.3M in Q1 2022, representing an increase of 315%, demonstrating strong demand for Adastra's cannabis concentrate brands and products.Gross revenues experienced a 39% increase from Q4 2022 to Q1 2023.Operating expenses as a percentage of gross revenues decreased from 74% in Q1 2022 to 20% in Q1 2023.Q1 2023 cash position increased to $1.9M from operations, an increase of $922K from Q4 2022.Inventory levels increased to $4.3M at March 31, 2023, due to the recent buyback of Phyto Extractions inventory. These elevated inventory levels are expected to translate to revenue in future periods.Operating expenses increased only 11% from $1.7M during Q1 2022 to $1.9M during Q1 2023 which reflects the Company's ability to maintain consistent operation costs while experiencing triple digit revenue growth.Key Q1 2023 Corporate and Business HighlightsIn-house brand, Endgame Extracts ranks 3rd, 4th & 5th of the best-selling concentrates in British Columbia, according to Headset1.In-house brand, Endgame Extracts ranks 2nd, 3rd, 4th, & 5th of the best-selling concentrates in Alberta, according to Headset1.In Q1 2023, new SKUs for in-house brands were accepted for listing in: Ontario - 19; Alberta - 20; Nova Scotia - 1; and Newfoundland - 1."With another quarter of record gross revenues, we are more excited than ever with what our team is capable of," said Lachlan McLeod, Chief Financial Officer. "During the quarter, we incurred higher costs to fuel the record gross revenues and we will continue to work on streamlining the growth as we drive Adastra to future profitability." Financial Statements & Management's Discussion and AnalysisThis news release should be read in conjunction with Adastra's interim financial statements and corresponding MD&A for the three months ended March 31, 2023, which can be found on Adastra's issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com 1 Source: Headset Data, May 30, 2023About Adastra Holdings Ltd.Adastra has become one of Canada's leaders in the supply and manufacturing of ethnobotanical and cannabis products for lawful adult-use. It serves medical markets and engages in forward-looking therapeutic applications. With cannabis concentrate products sold through retailers at more than 1,600 locations across Canada, Adastra's Phyto Extractions and Endgame Extracts brands are now well established with a solid distribution presence. As a Health Canada licensed facility, it specializes in extraction, distillation and manufacturing of a range of cannabis-derived products. Adastra partners with healthcare professionals and practitioners within the regulated environment to create products suitable for the medical cannabis market, with the ultimate aim of addressing the needs of patients. For more information, visit: www.adastraholdings.ca ContactsMichael Forbes, CEO, Corporate Secretary & Director(778) 715-5011michael@ adastraholdings.ca Investor Relationsir@ adastraholdings.ca Forward-Looking InformationThis news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation concerning the business of the Company. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of the Company. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Forward looking information in this news release includes statements regarding, but not limited to the expectation for future growth, the anticipation of creating long-term value for customers, partners and shareholders, the expectation that increased inventory levels will translate into revenue in future periods and the intention to work on streamlining growth as the Company drives toward future profitability. There are numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and the Company's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information include: the availability of a qualified workforce; changes in regulations or licensing affecting the Company's business; reduced demand for cannabis and cannabis related products; reductions in the Company's retail space and store locations; changes in consumer brand preferences; and other factors beyond the control of the Company. 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 are expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.SOURCE: Adastra Holdings Ltd. PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 16:00:55 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 613 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Bringing nearly two decades of product experience with Apple's suite of video tools, Meaney will spearhead architecting out Alteon's expansive creative ecosystem.MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Alteon.io , a comprehensive cloud-based platform that streamlines creative workflows for content creators of all backgrounds, has hired Brian Meaney as its new Head of Product. An acclaimed veteran of the tech industry, Meaney will direct product development and user experience for the entire Alteon ecosystem, which currently includes digital asset management, direct NLE integrations, cloud-based transcoding and creative collaboration.Meaney previously spent 18 years at Apple, where he rose from product designer to lead designer and later senior manager of UX design for all video applications, including Final Cut Pro X, Motion, Compressor and iMovie. Meaney oversaw the growth of Final Cut Pro from underdog to titan in the post-production space, co-authoring dozens of patents and personally accepting the team's Engineering, Science & Technology Emmy Award in 2002. At Alteon, Meaney will help improve Alteon's numerous successful integrations with Apple, including its workflow extension for Final Cut Pro, presence in the Final Cut Pro Ecosystem and a recently debuted iOS app, which allows iPhone creators to upload media directly to Alteon Cloud from their mobile devices.After leaving Apple, Meaney moved to South Florida to spend nearly four years with the trailblazing AR company Magic Leap as a principal interaction designer and senior director of UX for all apps. Meaney led various design teams and managers to create an operating system, core applications and interactions for the company's pioneering AR technology, which required overseeing prototypes for a spatial computing platform across mobile and web hardware, scaling up the product with an enterprise mindset."Alteon is, in many ways, following the same ethos we did at Apple-empowering content creators to do what they do best," Meaney said. "Get the technology out of the way. Enhance your media to make you as efficient as possible. Creatives require complex systems beneath a simple, intuitive interface. Alteon is fundamentally redefining content creation, and I can't wait to help shape it into something even greater." Like Alteon co-founder and CEO Matt Cimaglia, Meaney is a longtime resident of South Florida. Alteon has emerged as one of the region's top unicorn prospects; in December 2022, the company hosted an event where Miami Mayor Francis Suarez joined Cimaglia onstage to discuss South Florida's rise as a national tech leader. In April 2023, Alteon's success led its parent company, Third Summit, to receive $2.75 million in seed funding from investment group Florida Innovation Capital."As we begin breaking new barriers in the creative process, Brian has the skills, talent, knowledge and experience to elevate Alteon to the next level," Cimaglia said. "I am excited to see how he helps us grow during this pivotal year in our company's story." This announcement comes after a significant Q1 for Alteon. The platform won 2023 Product of the Year and Best of Show awards at the annual National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) conference in Las Vegas, the largest annual event in the domestic media and broadcast industry, weeks after successfully partnering with the Student Television Network Convention, a gathering of 2,700 students and educators in Long Beach, California.About Alteon.io Alteon.io is democratizing the media industry by creating professional-grade tools that are accessible to all. By empowering content creators of all backgrounds with a fully streamlined workflow that lets them upload, share, collaborate, review and store projects within a single platform, Alteon can cut production time from days to minutes. Alteon is a subsidiary of Third Summit. For more, visit alteon.io Press Contact:Megan LinebargerPublicist, Grithaus Agencymegan@ grithaus.agency SOURCE: Alteon.io A landowner rights group is suing the North Dakota Industrial Commission over what the group argues are laws that allow an unconstitutional taking of lands for carbon storage. State officials are relying on a legal process called amalgamation to secure the necessary land for a growing number of carbon storage projects tied to efforts to reduce climate-warming emissions. Carbon storage requires access to small cavities below the ground called pore space, which is the part of the subsurface that is porous enough for liquid and gas to flow through. Amalgamation is the process of requiring pore space owned by those who did not accept easements to be included in the storage facility. North Dakota law says for amalgamation to take place at least 60% of pore space owners must consent to the use of their pore space through easements, and the project operator must make a good-faith effort to acquire consent from all landowners. The Industrial Commission can move to amalgamate the land if these and 12 other requirements are met. State law says nonconsenting landowners will be equitably compensated. The Industrial Commission, which oversees the oil and gas industry in the state, used amalgamation last week to secure the storage space for the Blue Flint Ethanol carbon storage project in McLean County. Just over 91% of landowners that had pore space in the storage area consented to easements. But the whole space was needed for storage to occur, so the Industrial Commission voted to amalgamate the land for the project. The Northwest Landowners Association argues that this practice is unconstitutional. Chairman Troy Coons said the group made multiple attempts to address its concerns in this year's legislative session, but the lack of progress with lawmakers has prompted the group to take the matter to court. We were there at the Capitol, he said at a Wednesday press conference in Bismarck. We were asking to solve this problem. The lawsuit is filed in state court. The groups representatives argue in legal documents that amalgamation is a taking of land, and for the state to engage in a taking of land, it must file eminent domain proceedings with landowners. Eminent domain is a process of taking land for public use, which cannot happen without a just compensation. Though equitable" and just are synonyms in the dictionary, the association claims this is not the case legally. It argues that by avoiding the use of the word just, the amalgamation law allows the state to not have to resort to eminent domain proceedings which would require a jury to rule on if the compensation was just. The lawsuit asks that eminent domain proceedings be made a part of the amalgamation process. Also at contention in the suit are the rights of landowners when their property is being surveyed for future use. North Dakota law allows surveyors to access private land prior to it being condemned for public use. The association argues that these actions constitute a physical invasion," as the land has not been legally taken yet. It maintains eminent domain proceedings must take place prior to survey work occurring. Its a trespass, said Derrick Braaten, an attorney for the group. They dont have a right to be there until theyve gone through a proper eminent domain proceeding. Representatives from the Industrial Commission declined to comment on the case, saying they had not yet discussed it. The state Department of Mineral Resources said it does not comment on pending litigation. The same landowners group found success in 2022 at the North Dakota Supreme Court in another lawsuit regarding pore space. The suit concerned provisions in Senate Bill 2344 from 2019. The bill excluded landowners without a preexisting contract from compensation if their pore space was used for saltwater disposal or enhanced oil recovery. Braaten said the associations new lawsuit contains similar legal reasoning to its previous case. If the lawsuit is successful it could have an impact on the states growing list of carbon storage projects. There could be a potential for relitigating certain takings, according to Braaten. Debates over carbon storage have been increasing in North Dakota as the state looks to become a hub for these projects. Reducing CO2 output also will be required to get North Dakotas energy production in line with new emission standards in a number of markets. State Mineral Resources Director Lynn Helms anticipates there will be six CO2 injection sites across the state a year from now. Critics of these projects argue that the technology is costly and question its ability to lead to a significant reduction in emissions. They also point to potential health and environmental risks if a pipeline carrying CO2 to a storage area were to leak. The landowners association says it does not object to carbon storage projects, but opposes current laws governing them. What they are doing is taking private property without just compensation, Braaten said. PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 17:15:21 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 679 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Apply HERE by July 10thMIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Bacardi U.S.A. and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) launched today Vision Verde, a multi-year platform that will provide dedicated support to Hispanic/Latinx-owned businesses becoming more sustainable within the beverage alcohol service, sales, and hospitality industries in Greater Miami.In the first year of the program, $100,000 will be granted across 10 recipients -- $10,000 to each of the business. To learn more and apply by July 10th, please visit: http://hhf.page.link/jcgw . The recipients will be announced during the Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th - October 15th) and have access to Cocteleria Consciente, a Hispanic owned sustainability consultancy with expertise in the hospitality sector. Cocteleria Consciente will provide tailored consulting services for each business to implement practical sustainability initiatives that will drive positive impact."Latino small businesses are the fastest growing by far in the United States, and the Miami region is one of the leaders in the sector," said Antonio Tijerino, President and CEO of HHF. "Entrepreneurship is in our blood and despite challenges, we continue to make a significant impact through vision, creativity and ganas'. Latino entrepreneurship is good for our community, our country and we want to make sure it's also good for our globe. Through the innovative Vision Verde program with Bacardi, we want to support Latino business not only grow but become more sustainable as part of their business model." According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Hispanics constitute a significant portion of Miami's population, accounting for more than 70 percent of residents. A study conducted by the Pew Research Center found that Hispanics in the US are more likely to prioritize environmental protection compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Also, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) reports that Hispanic households in the U.S. are more likely to face energy burdens, spending a larger proportion of their income on energy bills. In addition, the 2020 U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Equity Report highlights that Hispanics are underrepresented in leadership positions within the green building industry, indicating a need for greater inclusivity and diversity in sustainability initiatives and research by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication reveals that 77 percent of Hispanics in the United States are worried about global warming and believe it is currently happening."Bacardi is a family-owned company of Latin roots, originally born in Cuba more than 160 years ago. Our legacy was built on giving back to communities and always doing the right thing for people and the planet. We are excited to help Hispanic business owners bring their green vision to life and support environmental sustainability - something we are extremely passionate about," says Eddie Cutillas, VP Community Relations, Bacardi.Bacardi, the world's largest privately held international spirits company, has set ambitious sustainability targets and commitments to supporting communities through its extensive Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) program, named Good Spirited.About the Hispanic Heritage FoundationHHF is a national nonprofit focused on education, workforce, and social impact through culture and leadership. Visit www.HispanicHeritage.org and follow HHF on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube.About Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.Bacardi U.S.A., Inc. is the United States import and distribution arm of family-owned Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held international spirits company in the world. The company boasts a portfolio of some of the most recognized and top-selling spirits brands in the United States including BACARDI rum, GREY GOOSE vodka, PATRON tequila, DEWAR'S Blended Scotch Whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE gin, CAZADORES 100% blue agave tequila, MARTINI & ROSSI vermouth and sparkling wines, and other leading and emerging brands. Visit www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram or Twitter.Media Inquiries:HHF: Nicolas Pena, Communications and Program Specialist, nicolas@ hispanicheritage.com Bacardi: Jessica Merz, VP Global Corporate Communications, Bacardi, jmerz@ bacardi.com View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Bacardi Limited on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: Bacardi LimitedWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/bacardi-limited Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Bacardi Limited PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 16:00:50 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 513 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 TOKYO / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / We are pleased to announce the launch of Blackbox, a media outlet for startup stakeholders who are interested in the Japanese startup landscape but did not have access to boots-on-the-ground information - until now. Queue, Inc., headquartered in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan, was commissioned by Shibuya-ku's Startup Support Project, a project to build a global startup ecosystem.Blackbox logoBlackbox logoQueue, Inc. already provides the Business Development Departments of Japanese companies with SUNRYSE, a database that communicates information on startups from around the world. Through Blackbox, we will ensure that this information becomes a two-way street, promoting information on current Japanese startups to startup stakeholders around the world.What Blackbox achievesBlackbox communicates the Japanese startup scene to the world in an open and fair manner.In current-day Japan, there is so much going on behind the scenes. Sensing that Japan was falling behind in the tech industry, both public and private companies have dedicated money, effort, and legislature towards reinvigorating the Japanese startup ecosystem. This includes new initiatives to attract and foster startups from abroad.The problem is not many people outside Japan know this.At Blackbox, we want to make as many people as possible aware of what is happening in Japan right now and what opportunities and possibilities exist in relation to startups in Japan. By presenting startup news and stories in English, we hope to raise awareness of startup-related movements in Japan as a whole and, in the future, attract international founders, startups and funds as well.About Shibuya Startup SupportShibuya Startup Support is one of the projects of Shibuya City to support international startups and entrepreneurs, and acts as a concierge to support the launch and growth of businesses in Shibuya City. SSS provides support for procedures such as visa acquisition and registration for overseas startups, admin for acquiring office space, housing, and bank loans, as well as advice on social implementation, support for community participation, and other support projects for domestic and foreign entrepreneurs.Shibuya City considers it an issue that Japan has almost no media that disseminate news about the local startup scene in English. Based on this, Shibuya City believes that the establishment of a media outlet that transmits information on the Japanese startup scene to the rest of the world will promote Japan to the world and attract foreign human resources and investment centered on Shibuya, thereby accelerating the internationalization of the startup industry and the creation of innovation in Japan as well as in Shibuya.What does Blackbox Publish?News: news and market trends related to startupsInsights: long-form articles on domestic startup trendsInterviews: with founders active in JapanIntroduction of the first round of interviewsBilal Kharouniekei labs / co-founderWei ChaiMaWaRoute / co-founderJun Iinumaalphaspace inc / Co-founder & CEOnuuma inc / CEOCome and Say HiBlackboxLinkedInTwitterInstagramSee here for our media kitContact InformationTaiki IwasakiManagementcontact@ blackboxjp.com 03-6407-9982Eri FurukawaPublic Relations Manager03-6407-9982Related FilesBlackbox_press release_EN.pdf SOURCE: Blackbox PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 12:00:36 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1026 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Q1 Production of 13,951 Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO")Q1 Adjusted EBITDA of $8.2 million and operating cash flow of $17.3 millionQ1 AISC of $1,145 per ounce(All numbers reported in US dollars)TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Cerrado Gold Inc. ( TSX.V:CERT)(OTCQX:CRDOF) ("Cerrado" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the operational and financial results for the first quarter 2023 ("Q1/23") at its Minera Don Nicolas ("MDN") gold project in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina and report on its ongoing activities at the Monte Do Carmo gold project ("MDC") in Brazil. Production results at MDN were previously released on April 24, 2023. The Company's quarterly financial results are reported and available on SEDAR as well as on the Company's website ( www.cerradogold.com) Q1 2023 Minera Don Nicolas ("MDN") Operational Highlights:Gold production of 13,951 GEO in Q1/23, a 3% improvement year-on-year ("yoy")Operating margin of $6.8 million and operating cash flows of $17.3 million in the first quarterAISC of $1,145 per ounce during Q1/23Mark Brennan, CEO and Chairman, stated: "These results demonstrate another solid quarter of production and operating performance from the team at MDN. We are now looking forward to the next stage of growth at MDN from the ramp up of our initial heap leach project at Las Calandrias which is on schedule for first gold production in June. In addition, work to complete the feasibility study at the Monte Do Carmo project in Brazil is progressing well, with completion expected in June. We expect the feasibility study to demonstrate the significant value of MDC as well as highlight the robust growth profile we expect to see in the coming years." First Quarter 2023 Operational and Financial PerformanceQ1/23 and Full Year Operational HighlightsMinera Don NicolasThe Company produced 13,951 GEO during the three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to 13,388 GEO in the three months ended March 31, 2022. Production was 3% higher in the three months ended March 31, 2023, due to higher recoveries.The average quarterly gold head grade of 4.59 g/t recorded in the first quarter of 2023 represents a 2% decrease as compared to the average head grade of 4.68 g/t in the first quarter of 2022. Gold recovery of 92% represents a 4% increase in recovery as compared to 88% recorded in the first quarter of 2022. Silver recovery of 67% was also 4% higher than the silver recovery achieved in the first quarter of 2022.During Q1/2023, the team continued exploration efforts to advance several green and brownfield targets with the aim of increasing mine life and expanding the overall resource endowment, while continuing to support the move to underground mining at Paloma.Las Calandrias ProjectDuring Q1/2023, work on the engineering and construction of the Las Calandrias heap leach project was completed and placement of ore on to the pad commenced in April 2023. The first gold production is expected in June 2023. The Calandrias Heap Leach is expected to add incremental production to MDN commencing in 2023 and is the first step in Cerrado's plans for growing production capacity in Argentina in the near term. All Argentinian projects continue to be funded by cash flow and local debt facilities.Monte Do Carmo Project, BrazilDuring Q1/2023, the Company, together with its numerous advisors, continued to progress the completion of a bankable feasibility study ("FS") expected by the end of June 2023. In addition, regional exploration continues on the greater project area aimed at growing the known resources and extending the potential mine life. During the quarter, the exploration focus has been on the Northern extension of the Serra Alta deposit and to the north of Gogo, as well as on generating more greenfield targets such as Divisa for ongoing development.The Preliminary License ("LP") was issued from the Instituto Natureza do Tocantins ("NATURATINS") on May 29, 2023 and the License of Installation/Construction ("LI") is expected to follow within 90 -120 days of the LP issuance.Q1/2023 Financial HighlightsThe Company generated revenue of $27.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, from the sale of 16,255 GEO at an average realized price per gold ounce sold of $1,696 and price per silver ounce sold of $22.83. For the three months ended March 31, 2022, the Company generated revenue of $27.4 million from the sale of 15,044 GEO. Revenue from sales of gold and silver for the current period was slightly higher than the three months ended March 31, 2022, due to the higher number of ounces sold, offset by the lower realized price in the current period due to a one-time deferred revenue adjustment of $2.4 million recorded in Q1/2023. Revenue for the quarter without the deferred revenue adjustment was $29.9 million.Cash costs per ounce sold were $1,139 per ounce in the three months ended March 31, 2023, as compared to cash costs per ounce sold of $1,049 per ounce in the three months ended March 31, 2022, a 9% increase. The 9% increase is a result of higher consumables and material costs compared to the first quarter of 2022.Cash provided by operating activities during the first quarter ended March 31, 2023, was $17.3 million compared to cash provided by operating activities of $8.8 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2022. Cash provided by operating activities before working capital changes in 2023 consisted of $12.6 million as compared to $6.6 million of cash provided by operating activities before working capital changes in 2022.Adjusted EBITDA was $8.2 million in the first quarter of 2023 as compared to $9.7 million in the first quarter of 2022. Current year adjusted EBITDA was slightly lower due to higher production and general and administrative costs, offset by higher cash sales in Q1/2023.Net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2023 was $7.4 million, as compared to a $3.4 million net income for the three months ended March 31, 2022, a difference of $10 million. The decrease in net income is primarily a result of an increase in tax expense of $2 million, a non-cash remeasurement loss on the secured notes and stream of $2.6 million, an increase in finance expense of $2.2 million and an increase in general and administrative expenses of $1.6 million recorded in the first quarter of 2023 as compared to the first quarter of 2022.Basic and diluted loss per share for the three months ended March 31, 2023, was $0.09, compared to the basic and diluted earnings per share of $0.04 for the three months ended March 31, 2023 PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 20:00:29 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 461 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Chino Valley Ranchers, a multi-generational family-owned enterprise, has always prioritized the well-being and health of the community they serve. Their commitment extends beyond farming nutritious, organic, and pasture-raised eggs, as they actively engage in acts of service to their neighbors, embodying the spirit of solidarity and compassion.COLTON, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / In the wake of the recent severe storms that swept through California, leaving communities in distress and struggling to acquire basic necessities, Chino Valley Ranchers, a family-owned enterprise deeply rooted in Southern California, stepped up to support the Crestline community during challenging times.Chino Valley Ranchers Helping Goodwin's Organic Foods Crestline, a picturesque town nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains with a population of 10,000, experienced unprecedented winter storms in early March, resulting in a total whiteout caused by over 100 inches of snowfall. While primary roads were cleared by authorities to ensure emergency services' accessibility, local streets remained buried under feet of snow, leaving desperate residents with no choice but to embark on treacherous journeys in search of essential supplies.One of the town's vital lifelines, Goodwin & Son's Market, a family-owned grocery store that has been serving the community since 1946, fell victim to a devastating roof collapse due to the weight of the excessive snow. Goodwin & Son's Market played a crucial role in providing much-needed provisions during severe weather events.However, despite the setback, Goodwin & Sons, in collaboration with their partners, refused to be deterred in their mission to support their neighbors in need. They transformed their North Shore Lake parking lot into an emergency supply station, where essential items and ready-to-eat meals were distributed to the affected residents. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Chino Valley Ranchers answered the call for assistance by donating 900 cartons and 60 cases of their premium organic eggs to aid in the relief efforts.Expressing their gratitude for the support received, a spokesperson from Goodwin Organics stated, "We are immensely grateful for businesses like Chino Valley Ranchers, who have stepped up to provide unwavering support to the local community during these challenging times. Witnessing the community come together to lend a helping hand in such circumstances is truly heartwarming. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Chino Valley Ranchers for their incredible contribution to the Crestline Community!"About Chino Valley Ranchers: For three generations, Chino Valley Ranchers has made it their business to support the health and well-being of their community. By farming nutritious, organic, and pasture-raised eggs, they provide high-quality food products and with a focus on community support and sustainable practices, Chino Valley Ranchers is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.For more information, please visit www.chinovalleyranchers.com Contact InformationAlex RibbleBig Chief Creative Media (Agency)alex@ bigchiefcreative.com (714) 794-2226SOURCE: Chino Valley Ranchers PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 15:01:50 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 358 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CLEARWATER, FL / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Cleartronic, Inc. (OTC PINK:CLRI) released its 2023 second fiscal quarter financial statement filing for the three (3) months ended March 31, 2023. CLRI continues to show growth and profitability, highlighted by thirteen (13) consecutive quarters of profitability - www.cleartronic.com Marc Moore, CEO of Cleartronic (the "Company") stated, "Our growth and profitability continued to grow during this past quarter with the expanded use of our ReadyOp platform. Our customer base continues to expand with new businesses, governmental agencies and other organizations adopting ReadyOp for their operations. Our clients used ReadyOp in a variety of ways such as weather storms, large events including several gubernatorial inaugurations, professional sporting events and concerts, and other events where ReadyOp provided the primary platform for planning, communications, reporting and multi-agency coordination. ReadyOp is a mature, respected platform, being used daily by our clients nationwide for the past twelve years." The full 10-K report for the twelve months ended September 30, 2022, and the quarterly 10-Q for March 31, 2023 can be viewed on the Company website at https://ir.stockpr.com/cleartronic/all-sec-filings About Cleartronic, Inc.Cleartronic, Inc. (OTCPINK: CLRI), a diversified holding company, creates and acquires operating subsidiaries with the intended goal of manufacturing and selling products, services, and integrated systems to governmental agencies, private and not-for-profit business enterprises, as well as the general public. In addition to its ongoing projects, Cleartronic continues its endeavors in research and development of new and expanded projects to support its overall service components, while operating and concentrating on its main operating subsidiary ReadyOp Communications, Inc. www.cleartronic.com Safe Harbor StatementThis new release contains statements that involve expectations, plans or intentions (such as those relating to future business or financial results) and other factors discussed from time to time in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These statements are forward-looking and are subject to risks and uncertainties so that actual results may vary materially. You can identify these forward-looking statements by words such as "may," or " should." Contact and Inquiries for Investor Relations:Larry Reid(954) 826-2508lreid@ cleartronic.com SOURCE: Cleartronic, Inc PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 13:01:20 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 958 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CRANBROOK, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Eagle Plains Resources Ltd. ("EPL":TSX-V, or "Eagle Plains") has executed an option agreement with 1416753 BC Ltd. ("141"), a subsidiary of NevGold ("NevGold"), a BC corporation, whereby 141 may earn a 100% interest in the Acacia, Lost Horse, FinLith, Surprise and Toodoggone Projects. NevGold intends to prepare 141 for a future subsequent going public transaction through either a spin-out, merger, or sale. The projects are owned 100% by Eagle Plains, with certain projects subject to underlying royalties.Under the terms of the agreement, 141 may earn a 100% interest in the properties by completing $1,000,000 in exploration expenditures over two years and issuing 10,000,000 141 shares. A 2% NSR on some of the properties has been reserved for Eagle Plains. Planning is underway for 2023 work on the properties, which will be managed by Terralogic Exploration Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Eagle Plains.BC Project SummariesAcacia (VMS)The 4857ha Acacia Project, located 60 km NE of Kamloops, BC is considered to have excellent potential for hosting volcanogenic massive sulphide ("VMS") deposits. These deposits typically contain both base and precious metals, and occur in clusters and/or stacked lenses. The property covers a fertile stratigraphic assemblage which hosts a number of nearby, on-strike base and precious-metal VMS deposits including the Rea Gold, K7, Twin 3 and past-producing Samatosum Mine, located approximately 2.5 km northwest of current property boundary. Past drilling within target stratigraphy northwest of current property boundary returned values from trace quantities up to 10.6 g/t Au, 335.3 g/t Ag, 3.13 % Zn, 2.74% Pb, and 0.55% Cu over 2.37 m. Eagle Plains management cautions that past results or discoveries on proximate land are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved on the Acacia property.Extensive work in the area was completed following the discovery of the Samatosum and Rea deposits in the mid-1980s. Geological mapping, geophysical surveys, thousands of soil samples and over 125 drill-holes were completed in target stratigraphy within 4.0 km of the current Acacia claim boundaries. Previous fractured ownership and the cessation of work in the 1990s resulted in large gaps in drilling of high-potential stratigraphy within current Acacia property boundaries.A comprehensive compilation and target generation exercise was completed by Eagle Plains in early 2017 which included 13,461 soil, 1023 rock and 51 silt samples, 45 trenches, 26 drill-holes and numerous geological and geophysical surveys from past operators Homestake Minerals, Omni Resources, Falconbridge Copper and Esso Minerals.The project is fully permitted with a Multi Year Area Based Permit issued through the BC Ministry for Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation.Lost Horse (Cu-Au)The 2170 ha Lost Horse project is located 27 km southwest of Clearwater, BC. The exploration targets at Lost Horse are low sulphidation epithermal gold veins and Cu-Au porphyry mineralization. Grab samples collected on the property in 2021 returned from trace values up to 2.99 g/t Au. Rock grab samples are selective samples by nature and as such are not necessarily representative of the mineralization hosted across the property.FinLithThe 2170 ha Finlith project is located 35 km northwest of Cranbrook, BC. The property is underlain by a Cretaceous age granitic batholith as well as Proterozoic age pegmatitic intrusions. Numerous beryl occurrences have been documented on the property which is thought to be prospective for lithium.Surprise / ToodoggoneThe Surprise (4491 ha) and Toodoggone (7154 ha) are early-stage projects that were acquired based on favorable regional geochemical results and prospective geology that indicate the potential for lithium mineralization.Qualified PersonTechnical information in this News Release has been reviewed and approved by C.C. Downie, P.Geo., a director and officer of Eagle Plains, hereby identified as the "Qualified Person" under N.I. 43-101.About Eagle Plains ResourcesBased in Cranbrook, B.C., Eagle Plains is a well-funded, prolific project generator that continues to conduct research, acquire and explore mineral projects throughout western Canada. The Company was formed in 1992 and is the ninth-oldest listed issuer on the TSX-V (and one of only three that has not seen a roll-back or restructuring of its shares). Eagle Plains has continued to deliver shareholder value over the years and through numerous spin-outs has transferred over $100,000,000 in value directly to its shareholders, with Copper Canyon Resources and recently Taiga Gold being notable examples. Eagle Plains latest spinout, Eagle Royalties (CSE:ER) was listed on May 24, 2023, and holds a diverse portfolio of royalty assets.Eagle Plains core business is acquiring grassroots critical- and precious-metal exploration properties. The Company is committed to steadily enhancing shareholder value by advancing our diverse portfolio of projects toward discovery through collaborative partnerships and development of a highly experienced technical team.Expenditures from 2011-2022 on Eagle Plains-related projects exceed $30M, the majority of which was funded by third-party partners. This exploration work resulted in approximately 45,000m of diamond-drilling and extensive ground-based exploration work facilitating the advancement of numerous projects at various stages of development.Throughout the exploration process, our mission is to help maintain prosperous communities by exploring for and discovering resource opportunities while building lasting relationships through honest and respectful business practices.On behalf of the Board of Directors of Eagle Plains"C.C (Chuck) Downie, P.Geo"Vice President, Exploration and DirectorFor further information on EPL, please contact Mike Labach at 1 866 HUNT ORE (486 8673)Email: mgl@ eagleplains.com or visit our website at https://www.eagleplains.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsNeither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore, invo PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 20:32:57 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 696 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Eyam announces today the opening of a new research facility in partnership with Mitacs, a national not-for-profit organization that empowers innovation through effective partnerships that deliver solutions to the world's most pressing problems. Eyam's new facility, Sentinel AI: Office of Pandemic Preparedness, will be dedicated to the preparation of the next pandemics by advancing the design of AI-informed smart vectors, next generation vaccines, therapeutics, and furthering the development of the Jennerator bioinformatics platform.The launch of Eyam's Sentinel AI facility comes on the heels of the World Health Organization's (WHO) warning from Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Last week Dr. Tedros spoke of the potential surge and increased fatalities from another COVID-19 variant and warned the World Health Assembly forum in Geneva, Switzerland, about the importance of preparing for the next pandemic."We cannot kick this can down the road. When the next pandemic comes knocking - and it will - we must be ready to answer decisively, collectively, and equitably," emphasized Dr. Tedros.He further highlighted the need for immediate action, stating, "If we do not make the changes that must be made, then who will? And if we do not make them now, then when?"Eyam's facility aims to attract top talent from around the world to solve complex biological problems related to pandemic preparedness with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Jennerator platform. The facility will support researchers as they develop novel techniques to uncover the underlying mechanisms of diseases, identify potential drug targets, and accelerate the development of personalized medicine.In addition to advancing state-of-the-art science, the facility will also offer training and educational opportunities. This will help bridge the gap between academia and industry, promoting the exchange of ideas and fostering the next generation of AI-directed medical researchers."We are thrilled to open the doors of our new office," said Ryan M. Thomas, CEO of Eyam. "Our goal is to create a collaborative environment that will spark innovation, advance our understanding of complex biological systems, and ultimately, prepare us for the next pandemic. We believe that AI and machine learning applied to data-rich omics techniques are going to greatly impact vaccine technologies and reduce the time to design effective vaccines. Eyam plans to be at the forefront of this revolution." "The Jennerator platform has proven its value by being instrumental in the generation of several of our vaccine candidates already," said Paolo Ribeca, Director of Bioinformatics of Eyam. "We are looking forward to complementing its results with a number of cutting-edge methods based on linguistic models and other state-of-the art AI techniques. In order to do so, we'll leverage work done at the Sentinel AI facility." Eyam's investment in this facility reflects its partnership with Mitacs to foster post-doctoral scientific research and drive economic growth in the region.Eyam anticipates that the research facility will be fully operational by the end of the third quarter of 2023.About Mitacs:Mitacs empowers Canadian innovation through effective partnerships that deliver solutions to the world's most pressing problems. Mitacs assists organizations in reaching their goals, funds cutting-edge innovation, and creates job opportunities for students and postdocs. A not-for-profit organization, Mitacs is funded by the Government of Canada, the Government of Alberta, the Government of British Columbia, Research Manitoba, the Government of New Brunswick, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Government of Nova Scotia, the Government of Ontario, Innovation PEI, the Government of Quebec, the Government of Saskatchewan, and the Government of Yukon. Learn more at mitacs.ca About Eyam:Eyam Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics is dedicated to the research, development and commercialization of disruptive vaccine and therapeutic platform technologies that are safe, efficacious and low dose. Eyam is named in honour of the historic plague village in Derbyshire, England. The residents of Eyam heroically quarantined themselves within the village boundaries to prevent the disease from spreading further, braving near certain death. Today, Eyam honours their heroic sacrifice by advancing next generation technologies to prevent and treat disease on a global scale.Contact:First Name: PamelaLast Name: LincezEmail: plincez@ eyamhealth.com Phone: +17782389842SOURCE: Eyam Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 17:45:23 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1016 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SODANKYLA, FINLAND / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / FireFox Gold Corp. ( TSX.V:FFOX)(OTCQB:FFOXF)("FireFox" or the "Company") is pleased to report the completion of a second diamond drilling campaign at its 100%-held Sarvi Gold Project in Lapland, Finland.The Sarvi Project ("Sarvi") is part of the Company's large land package immediately to the north of Rupert Resources' Area 1 Project (Ikkari Deposit). The project is centred on the Sarvi exploration permit and includes two additional exploration permits, Sarvi-2 to the north and Keulakko to the west, for a total permitted area of 21 km2 (see Figure 1). The Sarvi permits cover a portion of the Kittila Suite of volcanic rocks, which is cut by several interpreted faults.This follow-up reconnaissance drilling campaign at Sarvi included four drill holes, totalling 611 metres. These holes were designed to test a combination of geochemical anomalies from base-of-till (BoT) sampling and structural/geological targets (See Figure 2). The geological understanding of the project has been advanced through a compilation of detailed magnetics from both drone-based and ground surveys combined with almost 1,600 BoT samples. This round of drilling encountered quartz-carbonate (tourmaline) veining with sulphides, as well as sulphide-bearing carbonaceous sediments at a contact with mafic volcanic rocks. Drilling in 2022 also encountered sulphide-rich graphite bearing tuffs and schists that contained highly anomalous gold and silver (see Company news release dated May 27, 2022).The drilling was terminated early due to rapid onset of melting. Assays are pending for all four drill holes.FireFox's CEO, Carl Lofberg, commented about the Sarvi drilling, "We continue to advance our portfolio of assets in Lapland, drilling on two of our five permitted projects during the winter 2023 program. Despite a shortened program at Sarvi due to the onset of spring conditions, the winter drilling was very valuable. The team identified sulphide minerals in three of the four holes and drilled an important sediment-volcanic contact. We can see evidence for multiple stages of deformation at the project along with anomalous gold, silver, and a suite of pathfinder elements that has been shown to be important in Lapland. As is the case for numerous projects in this area, outcrop is sparse, so we plan to expand our base-of-till sampling program to support more drilling. In the meantime, we look forward to receipt of the assays for these four holes." Geology and Details of the Sarvi Drill ProgramDrill holes 23SA001 and 23SA002 were collared 42 metres apart and drilled in a south oriented drill fence. The holes tested a steep magnetic gradient that is coincident with a surface rock sample that yielded 1.47 g/t Au and 1.86% Cu (see Company news release dated August 24, 2021). These drill holes intersected mafic volcanic rocks including some evidence of shearing and folding with locally intense quartz-carbonate veining, including chalcopyrite, pyrite, tourmaline, and iron carbonate.Drill hole 23SA003 was drilled approximately 1.4 kilometres southeast of 23SA001 and SA002. In this area, a magnetic high is apparently cut by late faulting and the BoT samples were anomalous in arsenic and copper. The drillhole was aimed to the south and passed through a thick section of mafic volcanic rocks.Figure 1- Sarvi Project LocationDrill hole 23SA004 was located approximately 750 metres north from 23SA003. The target for this hole was a strong geochemical anomaly in the BoT sampling, including elevated silver, arsenic, bismuth, tellurium, and molybdenum. These elements are often enriched in Lapland gold systems. The hole intersected a sediment-volcanic contact with abundant pyrite in graphite-bearing mudstones and black shales. The pyrite-bearing section appears similar to the anomalous gold and silver intercept from the west side of the property in 2022. Below this interval, the drill hole passes through a gradational contact with mafic volcanic rocks (likely tholeiitic basalts) at approximately 91m downhole. Establishing the presence of this contact between the sulphide-bearing mudstones and the basalt is very useful for ongoing work at Sarvi.The drilling fleet was subsequently moved to the Mustajarvi Project area for additional drilling around the high-grade East Target.Figure 2 - Spring Drilling Locations, BoT, and Rock Samples Over Ground MagneticsMethodology & Quality AssuranceFireFox team members transported rock and core samples to an ALS sample prep lab in Sodankyla. The samples were then crushed to -2 mm, split and pulverized into 1kg pulps, before being shipped to the ALS facility in Rosia Montana, Romania for gold by fire assay of 50 gm aliquots with AAS finish (method Au-AA24). Multielement results are normally reported from ALS - Ireland from a four-acid digestion followed by ICP-AES analyses (method ME-ICP61).ALS Laboratories is a leading international provider of assay and analytical data to the mining industry. All ALS geochemical hub laboratories, including the Irish facility, are accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 for specific analytical procedures. The Firefox QA/QC program consists of insertion of blind certificated standard material and blanks into the analytical batches, and results reported here did not show deviations from recommended values.Patrick Highsmith, Certified Professional Geologist (AIPG CPG # 11702) and director of the Company, is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Highsmith has helped prepare, reviewed, and approved the technical information in this news release.About FireFox Gold Corp.FireFox Gold Corp is listed on the TSX Venture Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol FFOX. FireFox also trades on the OTCQB Venture Market Exchange in the US under the ticker symbol FFOXF. The Company has been exploring for gold in Finland since 2017 where it holds a huge portfolio of prospective ground.Finland is one of the top mining investment jurisdictions in the world as indicated by its multiple top-10 rankings in recent Fraser Institute Surveys of Mining Companies. Having a strong mining law and long mining tradition, Finland remains underexplored for gold. Recent exploration results in the country have highlighted its prospectivity, and FireFox is proud to have a Finland based CEO and technical team.For more information, please refer to the Company's website and profile on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com On behalf of the Board of Directors,"Carl Lofberg"Chief Executive OfficerCONTACT:FireFox Gold Corp.Email: info@ firefoxgold.com Telephone: +1-778-938-1994 PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 16:40:30 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 703 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Inogen Alliance, a global network of Environment, Health & Safety, Sustainability and ESG consulting firms participates in "Vision 2045" led by TBD Media Group in support of the United Nations and published on The Economist. The documentary series aims to inspire businesses and people to take collective action to ensure a better future for all. Inogen Alliance was selected as a representative of EHS, Sustainability and ESG consulting services globally emphasizing the importance of reducing environmental footprint and protecting the earth for the future generations through collaborative approaches to help businesses lead the way.VISION 2045 is a ground-breaking series of documentary films produced in collaboration with The Economist. This campaign is a collection of interviews and documentaries that aim to support the UN and its objectives by inspiring businesses and people to take collective action to ensure a better future for all. It brings together experts, business leaders and government officials to address the core challenges facing our society and planet and how we can collectively work to overcome them. The campaign is a comprehensive program that focuses on several key areas, including renewable energy, circular economy, responsible consumption and production, and climate action."We believe that sustainability is not just a responsibility, but also an opportunity for businesses to create value and drive innovation," said Paolo Zanini, CEO of TBD Media Group. "Through the VISION 2045 campaign, we aim to demonstrate our commitment to sustainability and inspire others to join us in this journey towards a better future." The mission of Inogen Alliance is to provide superior environmental, health, safety, and sustainability consulting expertise to global organizations. Making your global commitments a local reality showcases the ability of the Alliance to really understand the cultural nuances and regulatory environments at a local level for global clients. Collaboration is a theme across the film interviews highlighting the importance of collectively working towards this sustainable future.As Angelique Dickson, President of Inogen Alliance states "At Inogen Alliance we believe that collaboration is fundamental to achieving the goals and ambitions that we feel are most important to creating a safer, cleaner, more sustainable world. Without collaboration and long term partnerships you don't have trust or shared outcomes but when those goals become aligned it's amazing what we can do." Main contents of the film include interviews with the below participants focusing on collaboration for a more sustainable future and how we are guiding our multinational clients with a focus on the APAC region.Check out the film, bios of the interviewees and more behind-the-scenes on our website here.About Inogen Alliance:Inogen Alliance is a global network of environment, health, safety and sustainability consulting companies working together to provide one point of contact to guide multinational organizations to meet their global commitments locally. With offices located on every continent, more than 5,000 associates worldwide, and projects completed in more than 150 countries, Inogen Alliance provides unparalleled local consulting expertise, global consistency and 20+ years of experience building a cleaner, safer and more sustainable future. Global Thinking. Local Delivery. www.inogenalliance.com About TBD Media Group:TBD Media Group is an international, purpose-driven media developer that helps businesses, organisations and governments tell their brand stories in a human and direct way. Learn more at https://www.tbdmediagroup.com/ Interviews in the film include:Angelique Dickson, President of Inogen Alliance; Richard Hancy, Executive Leader Tonkin + Taylor New Zealand; Lida Tan President of Anew Consulting China; Annika Taylor Sustainability Consultant Peter J. Ramsay & Associates Australia; Meehee Suk Partner IA Partners South Korea; Subba Rao CEO Chola MS Risk India; and Andrew Young Managing Director EnviroSolutions & Consulting Singapore.Sponsoring Associates:From the 75+ independent Associate companies that make up Inogen Alliance, this campaign was co-sponsored by Anew Global Consulting, Brown & Green Environmental Services, Chola MS Risk Services, ESD Group, EnviroSolutions & Consulting, IA Partners, Pacific Risk Advisors, Peter J. Ramsay & Associates, Propharm Japan, and Tonkin + Taylor all in the Asia-Pacific Region.Media contact:Kate AslesonMarketing Director, Inogen AllianceView additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Inogen Alliance on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: Inogen AllianceWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/inogen-alliance Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Inogen Alliance PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 13:34:09 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 952 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Lahontan Gold Corp (TSXV:LG)(OTCQB:LGCXF) (the "Company" or "Lahontan") is pleased to announce that it has acquired an additional 794 hectares of mineral rights at its West Santa Fe Project, located only 15 km West of Lahontan's Flagship asset, the Santa Fe Mine, in Nevada's prolific Walker Lane. West Santa Fe now covers a of total 19.7 km2, the new mineral rights were acquired by low-cost staking of 95 unpatented lode mining claims by Lahontan's technical and management team.Kimberly Ann, Lahontan Founder, CEO, President, and Director commented: "Our geologic team studied the data we acquired by optioning the West Santa Fe Project and concluded that there is room for significant resource expansion outside the previously existing claim group. The new unpatented mining claims also cover areas that could be used for potential future mining infrastructure such as heap-leach pads and waste rock dumps. Lahontan's land holdings in Nevada now total 57 km2, giving the Company a dominant land position in the Walker Lane." New unpatented lode mining claims (DORA 1-95), West Santa Fe Project, Nevada West Santa Fe hosts an oxidized gold-silver mineralized system in a geologic setting similar to the Santa Fe Mine. Previous exploration drilling at West Santa Fe totals over 13,000 metres in 171 drill holes; only five holes are deeper than 165 metres. Preliminary modeling of historical drill hole data by Lahontan geologists outlines a shallow gold and silver system with a sufficient volume to host 0.5 to 1.0M ounces of oxidized gold and silver mineralization in an open-pit mining configuration1. The new unpatented mining claims will be subject to the same 1.5% NSR Royalty terms outlined in the previously announced Binding Term Sheet and option agreement for West Santa Fe, including the low-cost buydown provision (please see Lahontan Gold press release dated May 15, 2023 for more details on the NSR royalty).Qualified Persons ReviewThe technical and scientific information contained within this news release have been reviewed and approved by Quentin J. Browne, MSc., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 policy. The Qualified Person has not completed sufficient work to verify the historical information on West Santa Fe, the Company believes the historical resource estimates to be both relevant and reliable. The information provides an indication of the exploration potential of West Santa Fe but may not be representative of expected results.About Lahontan Gold Corp.Lahontan Gold Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company that holds, through its US subsidiaries, three top-tier gold and silver exploration properties in the Walker Lane of mining friendly Nevada. Lahontan's flagship property, the 19 km2 Santa Fe Mine, had past production of 345,000 ounces of gold and 711,000 ounces of silver between 1988 and 1995 from open pit mines utilizing heap-leach processing (Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, 1995). The Santa Fe Mine has an Indicated Mineral Resource of 1,112,000 oz Au Eq (grading 1.14 g/t Au Eq) and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 544,000 oz Au Eq (grading 1.00 g/t Au Eq), all pit constrained (Au Eq is inclusive of recovery, please see Santa Fe Project Technical Report*). The Company will continue to aggressively explore Santa Fe during 2023 and begin the process of evaluating development scenarios to bring the Santa Fe Mine back into production. Quentin J. Browne, P.Geo., Consulting Geologist to Lahontan Gold Corp., is the Qualified Person for the Company and approved the technical content of this news release. For more information, please visit our website: www.lahontangoldcorp.com * Please see the Santa Fe Project Technical Report, Authors: Trevor Rabb and Darcy Baker, P. Geos. Effective Date: December 7, 2022, Report Date: March 2, 2023. The Technical Report is available on the Company's website and SEDAR.On behalf of the Board of DirectorsKimberly AnnFounder, CEO, President, and DirectorFOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:Lahontan Gold Corp.Kimberly AnnFounder, Chief Executive Officer, President, DirectorPhone: 1-530-414-4400Email: Kimberly.ann@lahontangoldcorp.com Website: www.lahontangoldcorp.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: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.Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a varietyof risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the TSXV. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties that could affect financial results is contained in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com 1 The exploration target at West Santa Fe is conceptual in nature and is based on the size of the known mineralized zones, and gold and silver grades from historical drilling. The qualified person has not completed sufficient work to verify the historical information on West Santa Fe and this information should not be relied on.SOURCE: Lahontan Gold Corp. Dubai-based Telr, a leading payment gateway provider in the Middle East, has announced a partnership that enables Telr's merchants in the UAE to accept JCB Cards for e-commerce transactions. This is a continuation of the company's efforts to provide Telr's merchants with the latest technologies and the best payment methods available in the market via its proprietary full-stack technology, which aims at enhancing its' merchants' competitive position amongst other merchants in the local and international markets. JCB is a global payment brand and payment card issuer and acquirer in Japan; more than 150 million JCB Cards are issued and are accepted at about 41 million merchants locations globally. Unique platform The UAE-based award-winning payment gateway solutions provider offers a unique platform that enables handling payments in over 120 currencies and 30 languages with the highest level of security. Telr's merchants include small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups operating in government, education, consumer goods, food delivery, ride-hailing services, and other industries. With its one-stop-shop mindset, Telr extended its services even further, offering a complete solution for the e-commerce world, covering a wide range of financial and business services, including social commerce, QR Codes, digital invoicing, Telr Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) in collaboration with Tabby, Telr Finance in collaboration with LNNDO, a merchant financing program, and Telr Shops the easy-to-use tool for creating an online store in minutes. This significant partnership aims to enrich the supported Telr payment methods and thus expand the payment offering of Telr's Merchants, giving them the opportunity to increase their market presence globally by reaching over 150 million worldwide JCB Cardholders. Furthermore, this supports the continuous efforts toward the transition to digital payments in line with UAE's Vision to achieve a cashless society. Helping merchants Telr's CEO, Khalil Alami, said: "Our focus has always been biased toward helping our merchants make use of global opportunities. This partnership with JCB should open new doors for our merchants to tap into millions of consumers across the globe, and we are delighted to join efforts with JCB as a key payment scheme in Asia with growing popularity outside of Asia." Alami added: "e-commerce gives the opportunity for businesses to expand into new markets, while accepting a variety of payment methods is the key to not be missing out on the substantial and growing buying power of certain segments." Yuichiro Kadowaki, Director and CEO of JCB Middle East, said: "The enabling of JCB acceptance will allow our Cardholder's to conveniently transact in a safe and secure manner at all Telr merchants." Kadowaki added: "In the post Covid world, JCB recognises that ecommerce is a critical and convenient channel for our cardholders, while at the same time opening up new opportunities for merchants to offer their goods and services to JCB's growing Global customer base."-- TradeArabia News Service An outdoor recreation tech startup received a $600,000 state loan to set up operations in North Dakota after already committing to move to Fargo with a $1.25 million investment in the company from a new state investment program. A former state lawmaker calls the $1.85 million a "giveaway" to a business that likely would have come to North Dakota anyway. LandTrust's CEO says it wouldn't be establishing corporate offices or hiring in North Dakota without the investment. LandTrust, an "online land sharing marketplace" that enables outdoors enthusiasts to use private land for recreation such as hunting, received $1.25 million as the first investment from Wonder Fund North Dakota, led by "Shark Tank" entrepreneur Kevin O'Leary. The Wonder Fund's $45 million comes from The U.S. Treasury Department's State Small Business Credit Initiative. The $1.25 million investment in March came with a commitment from LandTrust to establish a base in Fargo as the company expands in the Midwest, according to the state Commerce Department. Fargo office Subsequently in April, LandTrust received a $600,000 loan from the North Dakota Development Fund to set up operations in North Dakota. Commerce officials stand by their process of approving LandTrust for the $600,000. "The NDDF staff conducts due diligence on companies that apply to the North Dakota Development Fund," Commerce Head of Investments and Innovation Shayden Akason said in an email statement to the Tribune. LandTrust pitched to the fund board, which meets once a month, in April 2022, according to Akason. "The $600,000 to LandTrust is in the form of a multiple advance term loan and was contingent on several factors including establishing a ND office, hiring ND employees and the company raising equity. The NDDF funds can only be used for working capital in ND," Akason said. Akason and LandTrust founder and CEO Nic De Castro confirmed LandTrust will have to pay back the loan. Akason declined to provide terms of the loan, citing state law dealing with "confidentiality of trade secret, proprietary, commercial, financial and research information." LandTrust's first North Dakota employee, a landowner success manager, started in April in Fargo, according to De Castro. The company is working on hiring two more employees, and will be looking for more dedicated office space, he said. LandTrust is hiring for a landowner onboarding specialist and another customer success associate in Fargo in the coming month. The company recently began a direct mail campaign, with "tens of thousands of acres in the process of signing up," De Castro said. At least two farm listings, near Glen Ullin and Woodworth, have already gone up. 'Corporate welfare?' Former state Rep. Rick Becker, R-Bismarck, sees the situation as a "wonderful example" of what he calls corporate welfare, where "the Republican Party goes completely against what it claims to be about." "The way politicians work with these types of schemes is because it's not their own money, they're not looking for the same type of return, the same type of reward," said Becker, who unsuccessfully ran for U.S. Senate last year as an independent after a decade in the state House. He scrutinizes Commerce's claim that "initial direct and indirect financial projections of LandTrust operations in North Dakota for 2023 is between $1.2 million to $1.5 million growing to $20 million to $22 million by 2027." "Politicians effectively are just drunk on their own self-confidence on what they're doing with taxpayer dollars," said Becker, who called LandTrust "a great idea" and "brilliant, but they're not the only (company)." "There is nothing that is going to occur after the $1.25 million or the $600,000 that wouldn't have occurred anyway, so this money is just a giveaway, and they would have come to North Dakota no matter what," he said. De Castro told the Tribune, "We would not be establishing corporate offices or hiring in ND without the investment," when asked if the company would still be coming to the state without the $1.85 million it has received from the Wonder Fund and Development Fund. He also said the $600,000 for setting up operations in North Dakota was "contingent upon establishing an office and hiring employees in North Dakota. We started the process with the North Dakota Development Fund before we met the O'Leary team but they both closed fairly concurrently." Becker attributes the situation to Gov. Doug Burgum and the Republican-led Legislature being "very fond of corporate welfare." "Frankly, it never pans out the way they say because they've bought into this idea of this indirect return on investment. It's so foolish, it's phenomenal," Becker said. Governor's spokesman Mike Nowatzki declined to respond to Becker's comments. Becker said O'Leary's Wonder Fund role "screams red flags everywhere" after his involvement as a shareholder in Bitzero, a cryptocurrency mining company establishing itself in North Dakota. "What he found is a government that was more than happy to dole out money, taxpayer money to private business, and he was going to take advantage of it because he's not stupid," said Becker, adding that O'Leary's Wonder Fund role "screams of nepotism." O'Leary -- whose firm was the only applicant to manage the Wonder Fund, and applied at Commerce Commissioner Josh Teigen's invitation -- has said he admires North Dakota for its stable tax policies compared to other states. Teigen said he invited others to apply, and the state provided ample opportunity for companies to do so. Former state Treasurer Kelly Schmidt has wondered how O'Leary Ventures was the only applicant, and what results the Wonder Fund will show for North Dakotans. O'Leary told the Tribune the Wonder Fund has "a lot of deals, a lot of interest, and we think this fund ... is going to be very successful." PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 15:01:28 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 948 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / MassRobotics, Festo, Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Novanta, and MITRE are calling on startups in the healthcare robotics space to apply to the third Healthcare Robotics Startup Catalyst program 2023-24 and celebrating the end of their current cohort 2022-23.This program provides healthcare startups with the opportunity to showcase innovative healthcare and robotics solutions and compete for a chance to join a world-class accelerator program. The program's objective is to advance healthcare robotics companies by providing the connections, guidance, and resources they need to grow and succeed. The selected startups will be guided by senior-level mentors from organizing companies and supported with connection to potential customers, investors, suppliers, marketing and more. Additionally, the selected startups will find support within MassRobotics' Healthcare Robotics Working Group, comprised of a U.S. cluster of corporate, academic, government, startup, and venture capital volunteers.The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving, and robotics has become an integral part of modern healthcare. With the growing demand for healthcare services and technological advancements, the healthcare robotics market presents significant opportunities for improving patient care, reducing healthcare costs, and increasing efficiency across various areas of healthcare.The program is open to early-stage startups with a healthcare, robotics, AI, or IoMT focus within the scope of the challenge. Selected startups will receive access to key players and collaborating corporates, innovation centers, and engineering teams. Additionally, they will receive introductions to investors, contract manufacturing firms, and suppliers. They will also have access to loaners, free components, and prototyping and testing resources. The program also includes media and marketing support, as well as potential participation in trade shows with mentor organizations.This is a unique opportunity for healthcare startups to gain valuable resources, mentorship, and support from some of the most respected and successful companies in the healthcare and robotics industries. Applications open on May 11, 2023 and close on September 9, 2023. Cohort 3 will be announced on September 22, 2023.Applicants from around the world can benefit from the support of the program to achieve their specific milestones. Cohort 1 and 2 participants have achieved significant milestones through the program, including but not limited to, funding, sales, signing a global partnership and territory expansions.In June 2022, MassRobotics, Festo, Mitsubishi Electric, Novanta and MITRE launched the call for applications for the second Startup Catalyst Program to advance healthcare robotics companies around the world, providing the networking opportunities, guidance, and resources they need to grow and succeed. The program focused on startups in the areas of clinical care, public safety, laboratory, supply chain automation, out-of-hospital care, quality of life, as well as continuity of work and education, and training and support for healthcare professionals. The program ended with a showcase presentation at the Robotics Summit & Expo in Boston, wherein all participants shared their successes throughout the program.More than 40 companies applied from around the world. The mentor companies selected seven to join the program. The participating startups completed impressive milestones, as detailed below:Acumino Inc. (USA) Acumino proudly announces its successful completion of the MassRobotics Healthcare Catalyst program, where the company showcased its exceptional ability to train robots for complex healthcare tasks. These tasks included TMS brain scanning, hazardous waste removal, and lab tech automation, demonstrating Acumino's expertise across multiple healthcare use cases. A significant achievement stemming from this program is a collaboration between Acumino, Mitsubishi Electric, and Festo, with the shared goal of revolutionizing pathology labs through next-generation robotic solutions. This collaboration capitalizes on the collective expertise and resources of all three companies to address the pressing challenges arising from the global shortage of lab technicians. The solution will be powered by Acumino's next-generation robotic training platform, Mitsubishi Electric's robotic arms, and Festo's end effectors, with healthcare advisory provided by Dr. Michael Roehrl. The project aims to enable robots to operate pathology lab devices in a manner that surpasses existing approaches in terms of speed, safety, cost-effectiveness, and accuracy. "We are thrilled to collaborate with Mitsubishi Electric, Festo and Dr. Roehrl on this groundbreaking project," expressed Patrick Jarvis, CEO of Acumino. "Together, we have a unique opportunity to dramatically improve the standard of healthcare worldwide." Robot on Rails (USA) Founder and CEO Chase Olle, while working with Festo's mentorship in the Healthcare Robotics Catalyst Program, has produced an innovative robotic work cell known as "RNA on Rails" in collaboration with HelixNano. During the program and supported by Nuzha Yakoob, Head of Technology & Innovation, Olle worked with HelixNano for six months on a pilot mRNA production suite, which proved successful, leading to the expansion of the project to a multi-robot production work cell. As part of this expansion, Robot on Rails (RoR) will deliver four machines to HelixNano within the next eight months. Additionally, the 8-channel DHOI pipette developed by Festo Technology Engineering Center will replace the system's current liquid handling. This new suite will cover most of the production pipeline and is expected to increase production by six times. The RoR project, under Olie's leadership, delivered a series of new features, including robotic replenishment and product refrigeration, that have brought them one step closer to achieving their goal of becoming the new automation standard for life sciences laboratories.ABLE Human Motion (Spain) ABLE Human Motion is a startup from Barcelona that creates exoskeletons for people with physical disabilities. The company has completed clinical trials across Europe and received pre-orders for its new generation of accessible exoskeletons. ABLE has submitted the Technical File to receive CE-mark regulatory approval in the coming months. The Catalyst program helped ABLE refine its business model, review operational costs, and adapt the value proposition for each stakeholder. Nuzha Yakoob, Head of Technology & Innovation at FESTO, mentored the team and helped to make connections to US investor PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 22:15:40 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1029 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / (TSXV:OGN)(OTCQX:OGNRF) Orogen Royalties Inc. ("Orogen" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has signed a purchase and sale agreement (the "Agreement") with Gold Plata Mineral Investments Corp. ("Gold Plata"), to acquire a 1% net smelter return ("NSR") royalty interest in the La Rica copper-gold project in northern Colombia.HighlightsLa Rica is a 160 square-kilometre land package located in the Mande Batholith, the northernmost segment of the prolific Andean copper belt that extends from Chile through to Panama.The royalty Area of Interest ("AOI") contains at least four undrilled copper-gold porphyry targets within a fifteen kilometre long trend of anomalous copper geochemistry on the western margin of the Mande Batholith.La Rica contains outcropping chalcopyrite, bornite and gold mineralization related to potassically altered quartz diorite porphyries.The namesake La Rica zone is defined by 118 samples taken over a 600 metre by 500 metre area averaging 0.76% copper and 0.47 g/t gold.La Rica is currently held by a private exploration company ("Private Company") with land holdings in Colombia."The acquisition of a 1% NSR royalty on the La Rica project aligns with Orogen's strategy of using its technical expertise to identify low-cost royalties with significant exploration potential that could provide strong risk-adjusted returns," commented Orogen CEO Paddy Nicol. "La Rica represents a rare opportunity for exposure to an exploration target in the Mande Batholith, an important and underexplored component of the South American Eocene-Oligocene arc that hosts giant porphyry copper districts including Escondida, Chuquicamata, Colluasi and Cobre Panama." About the La Rica ProjectThe Mande Batholith (Figure 1) was first identified as prospective for porphyry copper targets by a regional stream sediment survey carried out by Ingeominas (Colombian Geological Survey) and the United Nations in 1970. The La Rica project was one of the priority porphyry copper targets recognized in this study. La Rica occurs on the western margin of the Mande Batholith proximal to the Murindo Fault, a regional-scale arc-parallel fault system that can be traced down the axis of the Mande Batholith (Figure 2). The Murindo Fault is considered analogous to the Domeyko Fault System (West Fissure) of northern Chile that localizes Eocene-Oligocene aged copper deposits.Figure 1 - La Rica location in the Mande Batholith in Colombia The La Rica project hosts an elongate cluster of porphyry copper-gold centres containing at least four distinct porphyry centres. The outcropping mineralization comprises chalcopyrite, bornite and gold and occurs in quartz diorite porphyries with intense potassic alteration and hydrothermal magnetite. A large soil geochemical grid combined with rock and stream sediment sampling over the La Rica target displays fifteen kilometres of copper anomalism entirely within Orogen's AOI (Figure 2). The namesake La Rica zone became a focus of early work with rock sampling, 118 samples, over an area of 500 metres by 600 metres averaging 0.76% copper and 0.47 g/t gold coincident with a historic IP chargeability anomaly. There has been no historic drilling on the La Rica property.Terms of the AgreementUnder the terms of the Agreement, Orogen has acquired a 1% NSR royalty interest from Gold Plata pursuant to the La Rica royalty agreement (the "Royalty Agreement") with Private Company for US$1.75 million and a one-time contingent payment of US$5 million subject to either one of the following events:Upon the exercise of a back-in right associated with the La Rica project whereby Orogen receives a US$6 million payment from Private Company; orUpon the exercise of the buydown right, by the Private Company, whereby half (0.5% NSR royalty) of the 1.0% NSR royalty on the La Rica project can be purchased from Orogen for US$15 million.Figure 2: Location of the La Rica project within the Mande Batholith with composite geochemistry: Rocks (squares), stream sediments (circles) and soils (triangles). Qualified Person StatementAll new technical data, as disclosed in this press release, has been verified by Laurence Pryer, Ph.D., P.Geo., VP. Exploration for Orogen. Dr. Pryer is a qualified person as defined under the terms of National Instrument 43-101.Certain technical disclosure in this release is a summary of previously released information and the Company is relying on the interpretation provided by the relevant referenced partner. Additional information can be found on the links in the footnotes or on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com) About Orogen Royalties Inc.Orogen Royalties Inc. is focused on organic royalty creation and royalty acquisitions on precious and base metal discoveries in western North America. The Company's royalty portfolio includes the Ermitano gold and silver mine in Sonora, Mexico (2% NSR royalty) being mined by First Majestic Silver Corp. and the Silicon gold project (1% NSR royalty) in Nevada, USA, being advanced by AngloGold Ashanti NA. The Company is well financed with several projects actively being explored under joint ventures.On Behalf of the BoardOROGEN ROYALTIES INC.Paddy NicolPresident & CEOTo find out more about Orogen, please contact Paddy Nicol, President & CEO at 604-248-8648, and Marco LoCascio, Vice President, Corporate Development at 604-248-8648. Visit our website at www.orogenroyalties.com Orogen Royalties Inc.1015 - 789 West Pender StreetVancouver, BCCanada V6C 1H2info@ orogenroyalties.com Forward Looking InformationThis news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward looking statements". All statements in this presentation, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that Orogen Royalties Inc. (the "Company") expect to occur, are forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur.Although the Company believe the expectations expressed in such forward looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking stat PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 20:33:07 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 437 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 MIDLAND, PA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / It's a time of hope and celebration for nearly 1,100 students at the Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School (PA Cyber) as they prepare for the next phase of their lives following commencement next week.The school will host two in-person commencement ceremonies for its 23rd graduating class, to be held geographically. Students in the eastern portion of Pennsylvania will attend a ceremony on June 6 at 2 p.m. at Kutztown University, while those in the western portion of the state will attend a ceremony on June 9 at noon at Robert Morris University. Approximately 5,000 visitors will gather between the two ceremonies; however, viewers can watch either ceremony from home at www.pacyber.org/graduation "Seeing our graduates walk across the stage is a high point of the year for all of us at PA Cyber," said Brian Hayden, the school's CEO. "We are so proud of all that they have accomplished, in the classroom and beyond. I know that their time at PA Cyber will help them achieve their future plans." "Graduation is a celebration of all that we have achieved together," said Chad Francis, PA Cyber's Director of Academic Advisors. "It is a time to appreciate the magic of new beginnings and the many journeys the graduates will take after they leave us today." Heather Jordan will speak at the eastern ceremony and Ailish McGrail will speak at the western ceremony as class representatives. Jordan plans to study architecture at Thomas Jefferson University, while McGrail will study hospitality and management at Pennsylvania Western University.Following the 2023 commencement, more than 21,000 students will have graduated from the school since its inception in 2000. PA Cyber alumni have attended some of the top universities and trade schools in the country and have made their mark in a wide range of professions and fields.# # #About PA CyberServing students in kindergarten through 12th grade, the Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School is one of the largest, most experienced, and most successful online public schools in the nation. PA Cyber's online learning environments, personalized instructional methods, and curricula choices connect Pennsylvania students and families with state-certified and highly qualified teachers and rich academic content aligned to state standards. Founded in 2000, PA Cyber is headquartered in Midland (Beaver County) and maintains a network of support offices throughout the state. As a public school, PA Cyber is open for enrollment to any school-age child residing in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and does not charge tuition to students or families. www.pacyber.org Media Contact:Jennie Harris724-313-5842SOURCE: The Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 22:42:20 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 970 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Piasecki To Transform Former Sikorsky Helicopter Plant Into Advanced VTOL R&D Facility; Plans To Hire 400 Workers By 2028COATESVILLE, PA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Piasecki Aircraft Corporation (PiAC), a pioneer in advanced rotorcraft technology, announced today that it has acquired the former Lockheed Martin Sikorsky Heliplex facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, which previously served as a production and delivery center for Sikorsky's S-76 and S-92 helicopters.Piasecki Aircraft Corporation Ribbon-Cutting in Coatesville, PAFrom left to right: Mike Stanberry, Mike Hirschberg, Rick Siger, Arthur Kania, Fred Piasecki, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, Dr. Martine Rothblatt, John Piasecki, Greg Piasecki, Val Miftakhov, Michael Tremlett, Bill Moeller The company will transform the 219,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility into an advanced R&D center for next-generation Vertical Take Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), and related enabling technologies. Notably, the company's forthcoming PA-890 helicopter, the world's first zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell rotorcraft, will be built and tested there. The facility - which includes engineering development, aircraft assembly, paint and finishing facilities, and a well-equipped production flight test and delivery center - will open its doors to employees in the fall and is expected to attract about 400 workers by 2028."This world-class facility will serve as a strong foundation for future growth and will enable us to expand our R&D and production capabilities as we deliver transformational vertical lift technologies to the defense and commercial markets," said John Piasecki, CEO of PiAC. "We chose to expand our development capabilities in the Delaware Valley because of its deep roots within the helicopter industry, its highly-talented workforce, and its robust supplier network. PiAC is committed to creating local jobs by fostering cutting-edge innovation and we're excited to support a community that has long prided itself on delivering aviation excellence." "Chester County is home to some of the most talented manufacturing and tech workforces in the country," said U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan from Pennsylvania's 6th congressional district. "Piasecki's expansion into Coatesville is further testament to what many of us have known for years - Chester County is a great place to grow your business. It's incredibly exciting to see a company like Piasecki, a long-time aviation industry innovator, continue their commitment to developing new technologies like the PA-890 hydrogen fuel cell-powered helicopter right here in PA's sixth district. These advancements have the potential to transform vertical lift flight and help eliminate carbon emissions. Piasecki's Coatesville expansion will revitalize the manufacturing facilities which were formerly home to Lockheed Martin/Sikorsky Heliplex. I'm proud to support their vision and will continue to support innovations such as hydrogen fuel cell development through my work in Congress." Piasecki's acquisition and expansion into the Heliplex facility was enabled by the strong support from Pennsylvania Governors Tom Wolf and Josh Shapiro; Chester County Commissioners; the Chester County Economic Development Council; Senator Robert Casey; and Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan.80 years of innovation - now pioneering the next generation of vertical flight"2023 marks 80 years of PiAC innovation in vertical flight, a legacy that began in 1943 with the PV-2, the second successful helicopter to fly in America, now on display at the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum. Shortly after, PiAC developed the world's first tandem rotor helicopter - a revolutionary design that has been instrumental in countless life-saving missions around the globe since WWII - and which lives on in Boeing's CH-47 Chinook helicopters," said Piasecki. "PiAC is building on this legacy with a truly groundbreaking vertical lift technology portfolio, including advanced digital flight control and flight automation technology, hydrogen fuel cell and hybrid propulsion systems, morphing aerostructures, and more. We work closely with partners in government, academia, and industry to advance these technologies and develop platform and system-level air vehicle integrations as well as conduct flight tests." Major PiAC R&D programs currently being executed:Hydrogen Fuel Cell PA-890 eVTOL - The PA-890 eVTOL aircraft is the first zero-emission hydrogen-powered compound helicopter. The slowed-rotor winged helicopter is intended for use in a variety of missions including Emergency Medical Services (EMS), delivery of high-value On-Demand Logistics (ODL), On-Demand Mobility (ODM) personnel air transport, and many other commercial applications. In addition to zero carbon emissions, the PA-890 eVTOL enables up to a 50% reduction in direct operating cost and reduced noise compared with today's fossil fuel turbine helicopters. PiAC is collaborating with ZeroAvia, a leader in hydrogen-powered fixed wing aviation, to develop and implement its revolutionary High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane (HTPEM) hydrogen fuel cell technology for PA-890 and other VTOL applications. Investment from the U.S. Air Force in the ground testing of a 660kW HTPEM hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system is accelerating the development, certification, and production fielding of the PA-890 to address the needs of the military as well as the $40 billion commercial light helicopter market.Aerial Reconfigurable Embedded System (ARES) - ARES is a modular multi-mission tilt duct VTOL vehicle that can be operated unmanned (UAS) or with an optional manned flight module. ARES is designed with a small landing footprint to enable shipboard and expeditionary operations as well as provide embedded multi-mission C4I, ISR, combat, and logistics support to small distributed combat forces operating over extended distances and in complex terrain. Rapidly-reconfigurable Mission Payload Modules deliver mission flexibility that significantly reduces overall logistics footprint and cost. The ARES Demonstration Vehicle was developed in partnership with Lockheed Martin with funding from DARPA. With follow-on funding from the U.S. Air Force and Army, PiAC and Honeywell are developing and integrating a triplex fly-by-wire flight control system to initiate ARES flight testing by the end of this year.Adaptive Digital Automated Pilotage Technology (ADAPT) - ADAPT is a flight control software package designed to achieve unprecedented improvements in safety/survivability, performance, and affordability for U.S. military and commercial aircraft. ADAPT exploits the inherent redundancy of PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 16:10:21 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 814 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / AI generators can provide an output based on your prompt by taking separate words from billions of sources. PlagiarismCheck.org , a Ukrainian startup that specialized in EdTech software started testing their AI Detector on Bard texts, they discovered a significant concern. The PlagiarismCheck tool finds from 5% to 45% of AI-generated content that can be considered as plagiarism.The expert analyzed over 35 texts, and plagiarism above 5% was found in 25 of them. The investigation by PlagiarismCheck was conducted on May 12-15 and shows that Bard has a very high similarity of texts to already existing ones."We tested Google's Bard AI model and found it generated to 45% plagiarism simply by paraphrasing existing content. AI models should generate unique text and should not allow plagiarism", - says Language Analyst Natalie Voropai.PlagiarismCheck experts add that perhaps the percentage of plagiarism also depends on the complexity of the request. Sometimes AI simply compiles widely available information on a topic. If data is lacking, the AI generates a higher-level text with a lower probability of plagiarism. Later, they will test this hypothesis in more detail.The full version of the research is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7K4n5FoxfA Garrett Baklytsky, Head of Product at PlagiarismCheck.org says:"At PlagiarismCheck, we help to keep content original by checking text for similarity and authorship over 8 years for hundred institutions and organizations. And the last few months, we've also been checking for AI-generated text present. We were very surprised when we discovered that not only our AI Detector can spot text generated by Bard, but also our Plagiarism Checker finds similarities between texts generated by this Google AI hatbot and existing content.Usually, large language models take separate words from various sources and combine them in meaningful sentences. These models do not take sentences from sources: they generate their own sentences based on their understanding of the context and available texts from various sources they learned on. So it was very unexpected to see that sometimes Bard generates sentences, that are very close to being a paraphrased version of an original sentence that is stored somewhere in a source.We noticed that these matches of paraphrased or sometimes even exactly matching content, sometimes reaching up to 45% of similarity of the whole text generated by Bard. Of course, any similarity tool can provide you with a list of matches with various sources, which must be checked carefully. Some sentences shouldn't be considered as plagiarism because they may sound very far from how they sound in original sources. But we have seen the cases where the similarity is obvious"Expert says that this can cause a lot of trouble for users. Not only because of using AI-generated text, which is prohibited for students, for example. But also because of possible accusations of plagiarism. Many educational institutions do not accept papers that contain 10% or even 5% similarities, not even saying about papers that were generated by AI. Even if an institution does not have some AI Detector to check if a paper was generated by AI, a student still can be in trouble, because of possible accusations of plagiarism, when submitting a paper generated by Bard.It is now easier than ever to detect and remove plagiarized pieces and AI-generated texts that can cause damage to reputation or brand. The new tools address a serious threat and allow AI assistants to be used safely.The PlagiarismCheck tool determined the percentage of similarity overall, flagged identical matches, and changed text. The solution also added detailed reports and clickable links to the sources from which the text was plagiarized or paraphrased.Bard has been noticed for plagiarism before. Previously, accusations of plagiarism were limited to the lack of accurate references to sources and the attribution of research authorship in general. Online publishers are concerned that AI will continue to use their content without proper accreditation, which could reduce traffic to their sites and ad revenue. Online platform owners are also unhappy that their content was used to train chatbots without any compensation.This challenge can be overcome, thanks to the development of AI detection software. Plagiarism is a threat not only to academic integrity but also to the reliability of texts in general and content uniqueness. AI detection tools allow us to protect businesses and minimize risks: by using them to ensure high-quality, verified content.About PlagiarismCheck.org PlagiarismCheck.org is an online software that helps educational institutions and individuals check text originality, verify authorship, and improve writing. The tool is able to scan web pages and academic databases to identify any instances of plagiarism. With 200 000+ users and 8 years on the market, PlagiarismCheck.org ensures the integrity of their work and maintains high standards of academic and professional ethics.Learn more at https://plagiarismcheck.org/ PR Contact:ZEX PR WIREinfo@ zexprwire.com SOURCE: PlagiarismCheck PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 15:01:25 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 361 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 LOS ANGELES / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / The Road to Success Program is a unique initiative that demonstrates King & Siegel LLP's commitment to supporting job seekers in the Los Angeles community. As a prominent law firm in the area, King & Siegel LLP is using its resources to support job seekers who face financial barriers to attending job interviews. The program offers eligible candidates free transportation to their job interview, making the job search process a little easier and less stressful.King & Siegel LLPFree rideshare to job interview by King & Siegel LLP King & Siegel LLP understands that the job search process can be overwhelming and expensive. However, job seekers who are struggling with the cost of transportation to their job interview can now take advantage of this program and focus on the task at hand. The Road to Success program will not only help candidates make a good first impression, but it will also reduce the financial burden that comes with a job search.The Road to Success program is just one example of the firm's commitment to providing opportunities and support to the community. King & Siegel LLP believes that everyone deserves equal opportunities and access to employment, and the firm is proud to support job seekers in the Los Angeles area. Job seekers are encouraged to apply for this program and take advantage of free transportation to their job interviews.How Road to Success worksIf you have a job interview scheduled, we will reimburse you for the ride to the interview.DetailsThis program is available from June 1st to June 30thAll rides must be taken within Los Angeles, CA metro areaMust have proof of a scheduled job interview that matches the rideshare date.Reimbursements have a max value of $40This promotion will be limited to the first 50 submissionsHow to get reimbursedChecks will be mailed to the address on the photo ID.You must submit proof of a scheduled job interview, receipt of rideshare and photo ID and mail it to the following office:King & Siegel LLPAttention: Road to Success Program724 S Spring St Suite 201Los Angeles, CA 90014Contact InformationJulian KingPartnerintake@ kingsiegel.com SOURCE: King & Siegel LLP PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 16:00:53 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 421 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 The Contract Expands Savantage's Position as a Premier Provider of Federal Financial Management Solutions and ServicesROCKVILLE, MD / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Lisa Kazor, CEO of Savantage Solutions, announced today that Savantage has been awarded a $29.8 million contract by United States Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM). USTRANSCOM is designated as the Department of Defense (DoD) Distribution Process Owner (DPO) for the global distribution and movement of defense-related cargo. The period of performance has a base period plus five option periods, ending on March 31, 2028. This contract was competed as a Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB) set aside on the ITES-3S vehicle.Savantage SolutionsSavantage LogoUnder this contract, Savantage will provide technical and functional support to the Program Manager and users of the Transportation Financial Management System (TFMS). The Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC) is the Army Service Component Command of USTRANSCOM, and TFMS is the financial management system solution in use by SDDC as its overall Transportation Working Capital Fund (TWCF) financial and reporting system. TFMS serves a diverse customer base that includes all DoD components, various Defense agencies, other federal agencies, foreign Governments, and private sector entities. TFMS uses commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products, including Oracle Enterprise Business Suite (EBS).Savantage's support services will ensure timely monthly and yearly closures of financial activities within TFMS, transition of functional configuration issues to the appropriate staff, and provide development and maintenance of TFMS Interfaces, SDDC Reporting requirements and System Change Requests (SCRs) Support, FIAR support, Cybersecurity support, and Operational Environment sustainment.Ms. Kazor added, "This award further cements and expands Savantage's position as a premier provider of financial management solutions and services within the Federal market, especially for the DoD." Savantage is also a prime contractor on several major Army and DoD IDIQ vehicles, such as Army RS3, Army ITES-3S, and DLA JETS.About Savantage SolutionsSavantage Solutions is a woman-owned small business headquartered in Rockville, Maryland, that provides a wide range of consulting, integration, technology and support solutions and services to Federal agencies. Savantage has a CMMI-DEV Level 3-rated software development organization, and programs within the company have been certified for the following standards: ISO 9001:2015, ISO/IEC 27001:2013, and ISO/IEC 20000-1:2018. One of only four software vendors of financial management systems in the Federal market, Savantage takes pride in its commitment to quality and emphasis on service excellence. For more information, please contact Ayesha Rahman at 301-258-5600 or by email: arahman@ savantage.net Contact InformationAyesha RahmanExecutive for Marketing and Strategic Alliancesarahman@ savantage.net (301) 258-5600SOURCE: Savantage Solutions PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 22:26:23 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 731 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CAMDEN, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / This week, Subaru of America, Inc. donated dozens of vehicles to the North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) for their three-day rescue workshop session and competition, benefiting the training of emergency responders and offering a second life to pre-production cars that would have otherwise been crushed.NAVRA provides education and training for firefighters, first responders, paramedics, nurses, physicians, manufacturers, and other related groups. The event took place from May 24th to 26th at Subaru Park in Chester, PA, and featured a two-day workshop on skills and tactics, as well as a mini rescue challenge. The event marked the first time that the training has taken place in the Northeast, providing a unique opportunity for local first responders to get involved and learn skills critical to patient rescue in vehicle accidents."Our mission is to reduce the number of motor-vehicle-related injuries and deaths by enhancing the skills and knowledge of expertly trained emergency professionals, and partners like Subaru are essential to this progress," said John-Paul Shirley, Chester Bureau of Fire Battalion Chief. "We normally only have the opportunity to train on older vehicles from junkyards, and it's important that we are familiar with newer vehicles with strong construction to help us better adapt lifesaving procedures and skills when dealing with accidents and emergency scenarios." First responders from Chester, PA, Scranton, PA, Philadelphia, and Delaware attended the event which included live rescue scenarios with real "victims" using lifesaving tools including saws, cutters, spreaders, pneumatic chisels and more."We are so excited to be a part of this amazing event with NAVRA in Chester. This event marked the 145th vehicle that Subaru has donated to emergency rescue organizations across the country over the last few years to help with their training events," said Shira Haaz, Corporate Responsibility Manager at Subaru of America, Inc. "Not only are we helping to provide training that will allow first responders to improve lifesaving rescues across the region, but this donation also helps Subaru find new life for cars that can't be sold and would otherwise go unused." In addition to the 40 trainees from six fire departments, members of the public and local community stopped by Subaru Park to view the trainings and competition and learn about how firefighters and emergency workers practice the lifesaving skills they use in their incredibly important jobs.VIDEO: B-roll of the Subaru / NAVRA event is available for download here.About Subaru of America, Inc. Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Camden, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 630 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. is the only U.S. automobile manufacturing plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. SOA is guided by the Subaru Love Promise, which is the company's vision to show love and respect to everyone, and to support its communities and customers nationwide. Over the past 20 years, SOA and the SOA Foundation have donated more than $300 million to causes the Subaru family cares about, and its employees have logged nearly 88,000 volunteer hours. As a company, Subaru believes it is important to do its part in making a positive impact in the world because it is the right thing to do. For additional information visit media.subaru.com . Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. About NAVRAFounded in 2008, the North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) is a non-profit organization committed to preparing today's rescuers for tomorrow. To accomplish this, we focus on two key elements: the general population (that's you!) and all emergency medical, fire service, and law enforcement professionals.For more information on North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) visit www.navraus.org Diane AntonCorporate Communications Manager(856) 488-5093danton@ subaru.com Adam LeiterCorporate Communications Specialist(856) 488-8668aleiter@ subaru.com Subaru of America, Inc. donated dozens of pre-production vehicles to the North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) training event, May 24-26, 2023, in Chester, PA. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Subaru of America on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: Subaru of AmericaWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/subaru-america Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Subaru of America PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 19:42:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 461 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 ESTES PARK, CO / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Taranis Resources Inc. ("Taranis" or the "Company") ( TSX.V:TRO)(OTCQB:TNREF) has had its legal counsel write to the Honourable Josie Osborne, BC Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation, ("EMLI") demanding action on an exploration permit application that was submitted to the Cranbrook regional office nearly a year ago.The permit application addresses a number of drill sites and roads that must be constructed at the Thor project in order to test for the presence of a large intrusive target, which was outlined by an airborne geophysical survey in early May of 2022.In a joint announcement with the Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia on August 15, 2022, EMLI committed to improvements in processing of such applications. Yet despite these promises, Taranis' application remains outstanding."Taranis has made every reasonable effort to engage in good faith and be responsive. Now we call upon the Minister to ensure appropriate action is taken by the ministry staff," said President and CEO John Gardiner. "The Supreme Court of Canada has been clear that the Crown's duty to consult does not provide a veto, and government must respect third parties rights as well as Indigenous interests." Mr. Gardiner added, "We have many US investors that are watching this matter closely, and we urge the government to take steps that enhance investor confidence in British Columbia." A copy of the letter to Minister Osborne is available on the Taranis website at www.taranisresources.com Qualified PersonExploration activities at the Thor project were overseen by John Gardiner (P. Geo.), who is a Qualified Person under the meaning of Canadian National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Gardiner is responsible for, and approves of the technical content in this News Release. John Gardiner is a principal of John J. Gardiner & Associates, LLC which operates in British Columbia under Firm Permit Number 1002256.For additional information on Taranis or its 100%-owned Thor project in British Columbia, visit www.taranisresources.com Taranis currently has 85,937,104 shares issued and outstanding (93,012,104 shares on a fully-diluted basis).TARANIS RESOURCES INC.Per: John J. Gardiner (P. Geo.),President and CEOFor further information contact:John J. Gardiner681 Conifer LaneEstes Park, Colorado 80517Phone: (303) 716-5922 Cell:(720) 209-3049johnjgardiner@ earthlink.net 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.This News Release may contain forward looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results that may prove to be inaccurate as a result of factors beyond its control, and actual results may differ materially from expected results.SOURCE: Taranis Resources, Inc. PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-31 18:30:33 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 961 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Voyager Metals Inc. ("Voyager") (TSXV:VONE) and Cerrado Gold Inc. ("Cerrado") (TSXV:CERT) (OTCQX:CRDOF) are pleased to announce the successful completion of the previously announced statutory plan of arrangement (the "Arrangement") under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) pursuant to which Cerrado acquired all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Voyager (the "Voyager Shares") that it did not already own. The Arrangement was carried out pursuant to the terms of the arrangement agreement between Voyager and Cerrado dated March 7, 2023 (the "Arrangement Agreement") and became effective today, resulting in Voyager becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cerrado. The Arrangement had received the requisite approval of Voyager shareholders and optionholders at a special meeting held on May 24, 2023. The Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Commercial List) issued a final order approving the Arrangement on May 26, 2023.Pursuant to the Arrangement, each former shareholder of Voyager, other than Cerrado, is entitled to receive 1/6 of one (1) Cerrado share for each outstanding Voyager share (the "Consideration"). Further in connection with the Arrangement, holders of the Voyager options received options of Cerrado adjusted in accordance with the Exchange Ratio and subject to the terms of the Arrangement Agreement (the "Cerrado Replacement Options"), resulting in the grant of 1,266,649 Cerrado Replacement Options. The Cerrado Replacement Options are not exercisable by the holders thereof until shareholder and relevant TSX Venture Exchange approvals have been obtained in respect of such options and an amended Cerrado omnibus plan with higher limits is in place to accommodate the exercise of such options. Such approval is being sought at the annual and special meeting of Cerrado shareholders expected to be held on July 19, 2023. In addition, all outstanding common share purchase warrants of Voyager ("Voyager Warrants") have been adjusted, in accordance with their terms, and following the Arrangement, are exercisable for up to 1,779,755 Cerrado shares based on the Exchange Ratio.In order to receive the Consideration in exchange for their Voyager shares, registered Voyager shareholders are reminded that they must complete, execute and submit the letter of transmittal (a copy of which was included in the meeting materials previously mailed to Voyager shareholders) to TSX Trust Company, in its capacity as depositary under the Arrangement, together with their certificate(s) or DRS advice(s) representing their Voyager shares, in accordance with the tender procedures described in the Circular (as defined below) and the letter of transmittal. Registered shareholders are encouraged to tender their Voyager shares as soon as possible in exchange for the Consideration. For any questions about completing the letter of transmittal in connection with the Arrangement, please contact TSX Trust Company at 416-342-1091 or by email at tsxtis@ tmx.com . Beneficial shareholders should contact their intermediary and arrange for the intermediary to complete the necessary steps to ensure they receive the Consideration for their Voyager shares as soon as possible following the completion of the Arrangement.Following completion of the Arrangement, the Voyager Shares are expected to be de-listed from the TSX Venture Exchange as soon as reasonably practicable, and in any event on or about June 5, 2023. In connection therewith, Voyager intends to submit an application to the applicable securities regulators to cease to be a reporting issuer and to terminate its public reporting obligations.Further details regarding the Arrangement are set out in Voyager's information circular dated April 19, 2023, which is available on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com) under Voyager's issuer profile.AdvisorsEchelon Wealth Partners Inc. acted as financial advisor and Bennett Jones LLP acted as legal advisor to Voyager in connection with the Arrangement.WeirFoulds LLP acted as legal advisor to Cerrado in connection with the Arrangement.About Voyager Metals Inc.Voyager Metals Inc. is a mineral exploration company headquartered in Toronto, Canada.The Company is focused on advancing its Mont Sorcier, Vanadium-rich, Magnetite Iron Ore Project, located just outside of Chibougamau, Quebec.About Cerrado Gold Inc.Cerrado Gold is a Toronto-based gold production, development, and exploration company focused on gold projects in South America. The Company is the 100% owner of both the producing Minera Don Nicolas mine in Santa Cruz province, Argentina, and the highly prospective Monte Do Carmo development project, located in Tocantins State, Brazil.At Minera Don Nicolas, Cerrado is maximizing asset value through continued operational optimization and further production growth. An extensive campaign of exploration is ongoing to further unlock potential resources in our highly prospective land package in the heart of the Deseado Masiff.At Monte Do Carmo, Cerrado is rapidly advancing the Serra Alta deposit through Feasibility and into production. Serra Alta is expected to be a high-margin and high-return project with significant exploration potential on an extensive and highly prospective 82,542-hectare land package.For more information about Voyager, please visit the website at: www.voyagermetals.com . For more information about Cerrado, please visit the website at: www.cerradogold.com ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF VOYAGER METALS INC.Cliff Hale-Sanders,President and CEOTel: +1-416-819-8558 Nicholas Campbell, CFADirector, Corporate DevelopmentTel: +1-905-630-0148csanders@ voyagermetals.com ncampbell@ voyagermetals.comON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CERRADO GOLD INC.Mark Brennan,CEO and ChairmanTel: +1-647-796-0023 Mike McAllisterVice President, Investor RelationsTel: +1-647-805-5662mbrennan@ cerradogold.com mmcallister@ cerradogold.comCautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:This news release contains certain forward-looking information and statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words "expect'', ''anticipate'', ''continue'', ''estimate'', ''guidance'', ''objective'', ''ongoing'', ''may'', ''will'' and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information or statements. In particular, but without limiting the foregoing, this news release contains forward-looking statements concerning the issuance of Cerrado Replacement Options and the requirement to receive Cerra How Chronicle Siem Can Help Augment Your Soc Stack Google Chronicle SIEM is designed to augment your SOC goals without being another pointless, expensive tool you have to worry about. Access this white paper to explore how Chronicle can assist with your SOC stack. Googles Chronicle Security Operations: Why Doesnt My SIEM Do That? This white paper features a review of Chronicle, Googles cloud-native security operations suite, with a focus on its SIEM capabilities. Read the white paper to learn how Chronicle can address the shortcomings of many SIEM platforms. State of Cloud Threat Detection and Response Report The advent of cloud technology presents an opportunity that no organization can afford to ignore. This report summarizes the survey responses of 400 security leaders and SecOps practitioners regarding the capabilities, practices, and behaviors of protecting against, identifying, and remediating cloud-based threats. Read on to learn more. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on Wednesday approved an upward review in the pump price of petroleum nationwide. The approval takes effect from Wednesday, 31 May, the NNPCL said in a circular on Wednesday. The development comes days after the governments declaration that it will put an end to the fuel subsidy regime. Fuel queues returned to Nigerian cities Monday as many motorists scrambled to get petroleum products hours after President Bola Tinubu announced that the government would put an end to the fuel subsidy regime. Mr Tinubu, on Monday, in his inaugural address at Eagle Square, Abuja, declared that there would no longer be a petroleum subsidy regime as it was not sustainable. We commend the decision of the outgoing administration in phasing out the petrol subsidy regime, which has increasingly favoured the rich more than the poor. Subsidy can no longer justify its ever-increasing costs in the wake of drying resources. We shall, instead, re-channel the funds into better investment in public infrastructure, education, health care and jobs that will materially improve the lives of millions, Mr Tinubu said. Nationwide hike According to the circular seen by PREMIUM TIMES, the petroleum pump price adjustment for the Abuja pump price was increased from N194 to N537 per litre, while Nassarawa moved from N189 to N537 per Litre. The pump price for Plateau increased from N189 to N537 per litre, while Kwara was increased from N189 to N515 per litre. The pump price in Kogi was increased from N189 to N537, Benue increased from N189 to N537, Niger state was increased from N189 to N537, Adamawa was increased from N199 to N550 per litre, and Taraba was increased from N199 to N550 per litre. The pump price in Bauchi increased from N199 to N550, Gombe increased from N199 to N550, and Borno increased from N199 to N557. Yobe was increased from N199 to N557, and Kano increased from N194 to N540. A litre of petroleum in Kaduna was increased from N194 to N540, and Katsina from N194 to N540. Sokoto increased from N194 to N540, and Jigawa increased from N194 to N540. Kebbi state moved from N194 to N545. Zamfara moved from N194 to N540. The pump price of petroleum moved from N189 to N515 in Abia, and Imo increased from N189 to N515. Anambra was increased from N189 to N520, Enugu from N189 to N520 and Ebonyi was also increased from N189 to N520. Rivers from N189 to N511, Akwa Ibom moved from N194 to N515, and Bayelsa from N189 to N515. ALSO READ: Nigerians Lament as Motorists hike transport fares amid fuel Scarcity Cross River was moved from N194 to N511, Edo from N189 to N511, Delta moved from N189 to N511, and Lagos was increased from N184 to N488, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti was increased from N189 to N500. NNPCL speaks Confirming the adjustment in price on Wednesday, the NNPCL, in a statement by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Garba Deen Muhammad, said it had adjusted the pump prices of PMS across its retail outlets in line with current market realities. NNPC Limited wishes to inform our esteemed customers that we have adjusted our pump prices of PMS across our retail outlets in line with current market realities. As we strive to provide you with the quality service for which we are known, it is pertinent to note that prices will continue to fluctuate to reflect market dynamics. We assure you that NNPC Limited is committed to ensuring a ceaseless supply of products. The company sincerely regrets any inconvenience this development may have caused. We greatly appreciate your continued patronage, support, and understanding during this time of change and growth, it said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print June promises to be super exciting if the lineup of thrilling movies and series hitting Netflix this month is anything to go by. From the 1st of June, local and international titles like Ijakumo, ObaraM, Yahoo+, Finding Fela, Never Have I Ever: Season 4, and others will debut on Netflix. In a statement on Wednesday, the streaming platform said it had an array of action, drama, comedy, and adventure on its June lineup. The month begins on a very high note, with THE DAYS hitting the platform on the first. Here, those involved with Fukushima Daiichi face a deadly, invisible threat an unprecedented nuclear disaster. On the second, the Passport will be available for viewing. Here, a pair of men from vastly different backgrounds recruits a street-smart sidekick to help recover a stolen passport in time to catch an important flight. That same day, Valeria: Season 3 will be available for streaming with new love triangles, new life stages, birthdays welcoming a new decade and the same four friends to navigate it all together. Children arent left out of the fun as My Little Pony: Make Your Mark: Chapter 4 will be available for viewing on the 6th of June. Here, the evil Opaline is on a mission to steal the ponies Cutie Marks and become the most powerful Alicorn unless the Mane 5 can stop her in time! Fans of Never Have I Ever will be excited to know that Season 4 of the Netflix Series will be streaming on the 8th of June. In this season, senior year has finally arrived. Between college conundrums, identity crises and crushes that wont fade, are Devi and the gang ready to face the future? On the 9th, viewers can enjoy A Lot Like Love, where an heiress and her husband her fathers most trusted aide have a romantic weekend getaway disrupted when things take a nightmarish turn. They can also view Human Resources: Season 2 on the same day. From one-night stands to office romances, the creatures working at Human Resources have their hands and claws complete with a new batch of humans. More exciting titles Whats a month without a comedy special? In Amy Schumer: Emergency Contact, Amy Schumer gets honest about lasering her face, postpartum sex, baby-naming disaster and chewable Viagra in this cheekily candid stand-up special. On the 16th, fans of musicals can watch ObaraM. Here, confronted by her past, promising musician Oluchi tries to reconcile with the daughter she abandoned but some things cannot be forgiven. If you love The Witcher, weve got great news for you! Season 3 Volume 1 will be available on the 29th. Here monarchs, mages, and beasts of the Continent compete to capture her. At the same time, Geralt takes Ciri into hiding, determined to protect his newly-reunited family against those who threaten to destroy it. Extraction 2 will also be arriving on the steaming giant with highly skilled commando Tyler Rake taking on another dangerous mission: saving the imprisoned family of a ruthless gangster. On the same day, Black Clover: Sword of the Wizard King sees a lionhearted boy who cant wield magic and strives for the title of Wizard King; four banished Wizard Kings of yore return to crush the Clover Kingdom. If you love a good documentary, anticipate Take Care of Maya coming to the platform on the 19th. It tells the story of nine-year-old Maya Kowalski, who was admitted to Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital in 2016. As the medical team tried to understand her rare illness, they began questioning the fundamental truths that bound the Kowalskis together. Suddenly, Maya was in state custody despite two parents desperate to bring their daughter home. The story of the Kowalski family as told in their own words will change how you look at childrens healthcare forever. More indigenous titles The 23rd has so much in store for viewers as Ijakumo, Mati, Finding Fela and iNumber Number: Jozi Gold will arrive on Netflix. Ijakumo tells the story of a pastor living a double life who falls for an exotic dancer in his congregation, but hes unaware that its all part of an ex-lovers plan to destroy him. In Mati, after escaping from the village of Rimau, Mati goes to Zazzau to look for the treasure left behind by his wealthy deceased father. Finding Fela is a documentary that explores the life and legacy of Afrobeat pioneer and political activist Fela Kuti. Directed by Oscar winner Alex Gibney. iNumber Number: Jozi Gold sees a jaded undercover cop tasked with unravelling a historic gold heist in Johannesburg, which pushes him to choose between his conscience and the law. On the 30th, Yahoo+ will be available for viewing. Here, two friends team up with a Hong Kong crime lord in a get-rich-quick Internet scam after they fail to make it big in the film industry. Netflix says viewers can also enjoy all the local titles currently on the platform, including Ile Owo, A Simple Lie, The Wildflower and Here Love Lies. Ile Owo tells the story of a luckless in love, a young nurse who finally meets the perfect man a handsome billionaire only to learn that his family harbours some deep, dark secrets. In A Simple Lie, a womans lie to her ex spirals out of control, exposing secrets within a group of friends who are cheating on and with each other. The Wildflower tells the story of three women with different stories about men and mistreatment who feel forced to endure the abuse until they speak out silently. In Here Love Lies, a preachers daughter turned single mother and travel blogger, Amanda, finds more than romance when she takes a chance to meet a social media suitor in NYC. Black Mirror: Season 6 will debut on the platform soon Catch all these and many more only on Netflix this June. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print President Muhammadu Buhari, while campaigning for office in 2014, promised to tackle corruption headlong and bring it to its knees. The promise was rooted in his stint as Nigerias Head of State in the early 1980s, when the former military dictator built a reputation as a no-nonsense leader with a hard stance against corruption. At a time Nigeria was battling an insurgency in the North-east and endemic corruption nationwide, Mr Buharis military experience and anti-corruption record became most persuasive to voters who chose him over the incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 election. If we do not kill corruption, corruption will kill Nigeria, Mr Buhari often said as he rallied Nigerians for votes during campaigns and after coming to office. On assumption of office in 2015, Mr Buharis regime took up the fight against corruption in Nigerias public sector to the applause of his many Nigerians. Barely six months in power, Mr Buhari ordered the arrest of Sambo Dasuki, then immediate-past National Security Adviser (NSA), who served in ex-president Goodluck Jonathans administration. Mr Dasuki, a retired army colonel, was indicted by an investigative committee on arms procurement for allegedly diverting over $2 billion entrusted in the care of his office. The heist later gained the appellation Dasukigate. Mr Dasuki and other suspects who allegedly benefitted from the funds were later arraigned at different courts in Abuja. Some leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were fingered and tried for the diversion of humongous public funds meant for the purchase of arms to battle Boko Haram terrorism. Top military brass, including the then immediate-past Chief of Defence Staff, Alex Badeh, were also put on trial over alleged mismanagement of military funds, which hitherto, were never subjected to scrutiny by civil authorities. In another major stamp of his anti-graft footprint, the State Security Service (SSS) at the behest of Mr Buhari, raided the homes of senior judges in 2016. The jurists were suspected of stockpiling cash funds considered to be proceeds of corrupt practices. In the never-seen-before nationwide operation, scores of armed SSS operatives broke into the official residences of the judges, confiscating both local and hard currencies. The clampdown, which started in Gombe State, saw the secret police move against Muazu Pindiga, a judge of the Federal High Court. Then operatives raided the official quarters of Sylvester Ngwuta (now deceased) and John Okoro both justices of the Supreme Court on Friday night of 7 October 2016, and dragged into early Saturday morning. While the raids reverberated across Nigeria, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, justified the action. Mr Malami, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said the raids were legitimate as they were part of routine investigations. Of the seven judges who were arrested by the SSS, two of them Sylvester Nguta of the Supreme Court and Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court Abuja, were prosecuted. The administration also took advantage of the non-conviction-based asset recovery proceedings to recover huge amounts of looted funds and assets acquired with proceeds of corruption and other criminal activities. In July 2017, Mr Buhari earned the endorsement of the African Union (AU) to lead the fight against corruption on the continent. Anti-corruption battle on reverse gear But it did not take too long before public confidence in the administrations anti-corruption war began to wane, with top administration officials becoming entangled in corruption allegations without any prompt and decisive response from the president. The administration was accused of being selective in its choice of suspects to investigate or prosecute. Members of the opposition political parties with corruption allegations got appointments in the government, while the president pretended not to be aware of their pending cases. Early signs of the administration loss in the anti-corruption war emerged early in the life of the administration, when the now jailed pension funds looter, Abdulrasheed Maina, was almost reabsorbed into the civil service with the help of the Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and other administration officials, until the scheme was exposed by PREMIUM TIMES in 2017. Mr Maina would later be jailed by the Federal High Court in Abuja in November 2021, as the EFCC doggedly ensured the fugitive was brought to trial. In another instance, Mr Malami terminated the N25 billion fraud trial of a former governor of Gombe State, Danjuma Goje, based on political considerations. Mr Gojes prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was at its tail-end when Mr Malami terminated it. He would later justify it in an interview with this newspaper last January that his action was in furtherance of overriding public interest. Similarly, in what tuned to be a trend all through his time in office, Mr Malami in less than a month to the end of his stay in office, withdrew the prosecution of a military officer, Nicholas Ashinze- a former aide to Mr Dasuki, the ex-NSA to President Jonathan. The main case involving Mr Dasuki has lingered in court for eight years with little progress. His illegal incarceration for years with the backing of Mr Malami contributed significantly to the delay suffered by the case. Some others the government charged with offences relating to diversion of funds of the NSA office were freed by courts. In a similar fashion, the judges sensationally arrested by the government were acquitted. Dealing the most devastating blow to the anti-corruption efforts was the pardon the regime granted to convicted former governors Jolly Nyame, a former governor of Taraba State, and Joshua Dariye, a former governor of Plateau State in 2021.. Messrs Nyame and Dariyes convictions in May and June, 2018, bolstered the governments avowal to defeat corruption, especially amongst politically exposed persons (PEPs). The pairs trial had lingered for over a decade before a novel legislation Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 quickened their trial and eventual conviction. They two former governors conviction had been affirmed by the Supreme Court, and they were still serving their jail time when the Buhari administration pardoned them in a historic rollback of a rare success in the fight against corruption in the country. The governments action drew wide condemnation from the citizenry, with many saying the pardon granted Messrs Nyame and Dariye was at variance with Mr Buharis promise to disincentive corruption. But a top adviser to the president on anti-corruption, Itse Sagay, disagreed with the assertion that granting pardon to the two former governors had diminished the outgone governments achievements in combating sleaze. In an interview with PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Sagay, a law professor and chair, Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC), said the action was a political decision collectively taken by the Council of State. In his assessment of the government, Mr Sagay argued that Mr Buharis anti-corruption drive remained the most successful of his campaign promises. Convictions increased tenfold. The anti-corruption drive was a huge success, Mr Sagay said, pointing to the administrations assets recovery success and elimination of fraud in constituency projects. MDAs under Buhari consistently violated audit law When Mr Buhari mounted the saddle in 2015, he was touted to use his body language of an acclaimed spartan lifestyle to dismantle the bureaucracy that had bred corruption. For six months, the gap-toothed former Head of State from Daura, Katsina State, ran the government without ministers. He used the core civil servants to kick-start the government. His public perception as an anti-graft czar from his past as a retired army general seemed to keep sharp practices at bay but only for a little while. By the time Nigerias Auditor-Generals report for 2016 was published, it shone the light on how ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) declined to submit their books for review since Mr Buhari came into office. The report revealed that poor compliance of public institutions to submit their accounts for review as statutorily required was worse in Mr Buharis first two years as president than previous years since 1999, when Nigeria returned to democracy. The Auditor-Generals report, showed that 324 MDAs failed to submit their accounts for audit in 2016, while 215 failed to submit in 2015. In each of the 22 previous years before that, the highest number of non-submissions was 148, in 2014 under President Jonathans administration which was widely seen as corrupt. The Nigerian Senate on 10 May, said Mr Buhari refused to act on the report that indicted top management of MDAs, who spent over N1 trillion illegally. In another instance, the parliament queried 558 MDAs for refusing to account for N969 billion intangible assets in the 2019 budget. The lawmakers, while examining the 2019 report of the Auditor-General, said there was no disclosure by the MDAs to enable audit to confirm the assets. Also, the Senate whose primary statutory responsibility is to oversight MDAs, said the incessant violation of extant rules like non-retirement of personal advances and grant of cash advances above approved limit, were a hindrance to public accountability and transparency under Mr Buharis regime. The Chairman of the Senate committee on Public Accounts, Matthew Urhoghide, once lamented the consistent contravention of relevant constitutional provisions and other Extant Laws by the office of the Accountant-General of the Federation. In December 2022, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), disclosed it had recovered N30 billion from the immediate-past Accountant-General, Ahmed Idris. Mr Idris and other co-defendants are being prosecuted over alleged corrupt diversion of N109 billion from public treasury. Mr Urhoghide pointed out that the late submission of annual financial statements is a violation of Section 49(1) and (2) of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007 and Section 85 (5) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Not even the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, who is believed to have habitually pandered to the will of the executive, could stomach the lack of accountability of public institutions. This is one of our major responsibilities as a parliament, to hold the executive to account. Whoever is given the responsibility and the trust of running any agency with public funds must be accountable to the parliament on behalf of the people, Mr Lawan had said during the consideration of the Auditor-Generals report. Corruption worsened on Buharis watch Having promised to fight corruption vigorously, Nigerians had hoped rampant misappropriation and outright theft of humongous public funds would be substantially reduced if not eradicated under Mr Buharis administration. However, public corruption perception in Nigeria deteriorated between 2016 and 2017, a report by Transparency International showed. The annual Corruption Perception Index, (CPI) by Transparency International (TI) of countries, ranked Nigeria 148 out of 180 countries assessed in 2017. The CPI is TIs tool for measuring the levels of corruption in the systems of various countries around the world. The maximum points a country can score is 100 points, and the least is zero. Zero signifies the worst performing countries and 100, the best-ranked. The index showed that out of 100 points signalling maximum transparency and no corruption, Nigeria scored 27 points. The results show a slight deterioration in perception of corruption in public administration in Nigeria compared to 2016. For instance, in 2016, Nigeria scored 28 points and ranked 136th in the ranking of countries. With the one-point reduction in the score, Nigeria slipped in the country-ranking by 12 positions, from 136 in 2016 to 148 in 2017. The rankings are from 1 to 180, with 180 indicating the country having the worst perception of corruption. Again in 2019, Nigeria did not only slip from the 144th to 146th order of corruption ranking, but it slipped by 26 points a minus of one when compared to its score in 2018. Nigerias 146th position out of the 180 countries that were surveyed worldwide showed that its score of 26 was way below the global average of 43 and the 2019 average score of 32 for the sub-Saharan Africa region. Nigeria ranked 32nd out of 49 countries in the sub-region. Again, Nigeria fell five places in the 2021 CPI ranking. Scoring 24 out of 100 points, it ranked 154the out of 180 countries surveyed, falling back five places from the rank of 149 in 2020 placing it as the second most corrupt country in West Africa. It was Nigerias second consecutive year of a downward spiral on the TIs CPI ranking, the countrys score having dropped from 26 in 2019 to 25 in the 2020 assessment, and further to 24 in the 2021 record. Recently, Transparency Internationals corruption perception index indicated that Nigeria dropped to 149th out of the 180 countries surveyed after scoring 25 out of 100 points. Although Nigeria moved up four places in the latest 2022 CPI, it did not improve on its previous years point. Despite maintaining its previous score of 24 out of 100 points in the 2021 assessment, Nigerias position went up to 150th in the new index compared to its 154th position out of 180 countries assessed in the 202 rankings. Selective, sabotaged war Despite exploiting successive administrations failures to combat grand corruption in getting into office, Mr Buharis regime has consistently criticised unfavourable assessment of his governments performance. The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Mr Malami, in an interview with PREMIUM TIMES in January 2023, rated Mr Buhari high in fighting corruption despite what the data says. Similarly, EFCCs chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, recently said Mr Buharis anti-corruption drive was topnotch. Mr Bawa referenced the increase in the number of convictions his commission secured. But anti-graft advocates argued that Mr Buharis anti-corruption strategy was selective, leaving out politically exposed persons who were close to the corridors of power. A constitutional lawyer and anti-graft campaigner, Yusuf Ali, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), told this newspaper that Nigerias efforts in combating corruption was selective. In Nigeria, statutory agencies like the EFCC, the ICPC and Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) set up to tackle corruption are often seen as cudgel to bludgeon political opponents. Recalling Mr Buharis electioneering promises in 2014, Femi Falana, a constitutional lawyer and human rights activist, said he promised to wage a relentless war against corruption. But after taking the reins of power, the battle was completely lost as politically exposed persons who were charged with money laundering running into billions of naira were freed by the courts, Mr Falana noted. The human rights activist said Mr Malami derailed the governments anti-corruption campaign by arbitrarily abusing his powers as Attorney-General by terminating the trials of corrupt officials. President Buhari allowed Mr Malami to collapse the fight against corruption, Mr Falana said, adding that the minister helped to sabotage the anti-corruption campaign. Mr Falana further said the magnitude of the sleaze that had occurred on Mr Buharis watch would be exposed by Nigerias new government. Another lawyer and SAN, Ben Anichebe, described Mr Buharis regime as a monumental failure in terms of fighting corruption. He said the government lacked a robust anti-graft strategy needed to cripple the menace. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Senate has uncovered how Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the federal government diverted hundreds of billions of naira from the Service Wide Vote (SWV) account of the federation. Chairman, Senate Committee on Public Accounts, Matthew Urhoghide, said the committees investigation revealed that hundred of billions of naira were disbursed to some agencies of the federal government for the purpose of salary shortfalls despite the fact that such funds had already been catered for in the yearly budgets of the agencies. The Service Wide Vote is an extra budgetary provision for MDAs to meet dire needs or special emergencies for which no or insufficient funds were made in the Appropriation Act. The Act that established the Service Wide Vote prescribed that there must be a formal request made to and approved by the president of the country before such funds would be accessed by any agency of the government. But Mr Urhoghide said many of the MDAs did not make formal requests before the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation disbursed hundreds of billions of naira to them between 2017 and 2021. The senator made the disclosure while presenting the committees report on special inquiry into releases and utilisation of funds disbursed to MDAs from Service Wide Vote at the plenary on Wednesday. Mr Urhoghide did not mention the government agencies that committed the offence while presenting the report. He was not also specific on the amount illegally disbursed to the agencies. He said some MDAs collected funds for execution of projects that were already budgeted for in the Appropriation Acts during the years under review. He noted that some of the approvals for disbursing the illegal transactions were obtained from the office of the former Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed. Mr Urhoghide also noted that many of the MDAs have not been disclosing transaction details they obtained from the Service Wide Vote, an action that contradicts the law establishing the Vote. Affected Agencies Mr Urhoghide said the committee invited 207 federal government agencies for interrogation while the investigation lasted. He said that out of the agencies invited, only 119 of them appeared before the committee while 85 others shunned its invitations. Among the agencies that shunned the committee investigation were, according to the senator, the State House, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Nigeria Defence Academy, Federal Ministry of Health, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria,a National Examination Council (NECO) and Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC). Recommendations To prevent corruption in the public service, the committee also recommended that: Where the capital supplementation must be made from Service Wide Vote, only personal authorisation of the president as the approving authority shall suffice; MDAs must strictly ensure that funds received from Service Wide Vote are applied to the specific purpose of request and release and; READ ALSO: Gender equality bill passes second reading at Senate Office of the Accountant General of the Federation and the Cash Management Department, Federal Ministry of Finance should rejig its record keeping procedures to enhance efficient operations of the Federal Treasury House. The Senate adopted the report of the committee. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, on Wednesday, sought an adjournment of his petition challenging President Bola Tinubus victory. Mr Obis lawyer, Awa Kalu, informed the five-member panel of the court headed by Haruna Tsammani, that due to an unexpected development, he would be seeking for an adjournment until Thursday. Mr Kalu, a law professor and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), further disclosed that two of the legal team members took ill. I am constrained to pray for an adjournment until tomorrow (Thursday), Mr Kalu urged the court. Lawyers to the respondents in the suit Wole Olanipekun for Mr Tinubu; Lateef Fagbemi, All Progressives Congress (APC) and Abubakar Mahmoud for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not oppose Mr Kalus request for an adjournment. However, the chair of the panel, Mr Tsammani reminded Mr Obis legal team that they were eating into their allotted time. If you ask for an adjournment, you are eating into your time, Mr Tsammani said. Subsequently, the suit was adjourned until Thursday for further hearing. Background At the pre-hearing sessions of the court, Mr Obi indicated that he would be calling 50 witnesses in aid of his case. The Labour Party candidate requested for seven weeks to substantiate his claims against Mr Tinubu, INEC and the APC. But the court pruned it to three weeks. At the resumption of proceedings on Tuesday, Mr Obi called his first witness. The witness, Lawrence Nwakaeti, testified on Mr Tinubus alleged illicit drug trafficking in the US. With two days gone by, Mr Obi is left with 19 days to prove his case at the court. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The South-west Governors Forum has urged President Bola Tinubu to institute a new constitutional order that would ensure true federalism in Nigeria. Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who is the chairperson of the regional group, stated this in a statement on Tuesday, on behalf of the governors . He said this should be one of the first steps to be taken by the new Tinubu administration. Mr Akeredolu also admonished the president to hire men and women with the required expertise in governance to serve in his government The new Administration has its jobs well defined, the very first being the urgent need to assist in birthing a new constitutional order which takes into account, keenly, the principles of federalism, a statement by its Chairman and governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, said. The success recorded at fixing the basic defects in the 1999 Constitution, As Amended, will determine, largely, the pattern and the depth of the deliberative governance designed to achieve development. All existential issues will be addressed realistically. We must encourage the new Government to tread this honorable path. The new thinking should anticipate active participation by the constituent units of the Federation as coordinate partners in revenue generation and the security of lives and property of the citizenry. I do not doubt that Mr President is ready to deliver on this mandate of rectitude. His record of service in Lagos State leaves no room for any doubt concerning his capacity to turn things around positively. According to the governor, only those with proven capacity to deliver should be brought on board. This is not the time to gloat on the electoral victories recorded in the last general elections. It is not a season for recriminations, Mr Akeredolu said. He said the divisive rhetoric of we against them should cease with the declaration of the winners by the electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). We admonish ourselves on the need to remain focused on the socio-economic programmes for the emancipation of our people, he said. The governors urged all the new leaders to cast aside all tendencies which promote and deepen cleavages of different hues, adding, All hands must be deployed on deck. There must be conscious attempts to bring on board only those with proven capacity about expertise, he said. The President must ensure that all those who are bent on setting Nigerians on one another are neutralized. As Nigeria takes yet another momentous step on her journey towards greatness, it behooves us to join all good people in the country and our friends and well-wishers from all over the world to celebrate this seamless transfer of power to a new set of elected leaders, at both the national and state levels. Most importantly, all decent people must pay glowing tributes to the commitment of the immediate past President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, General Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, for this phenomenal leap towards political stability and economic prosperity. On this occasion, I felicitate the new President, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR, most heartily, for his resilience, equanimity, doggedness, and uncommon tenacity to achieve set objectives. I congratulate the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, for being a part of the team who will steer the affairs of the country for the next four years. I rejoice with the All Progressives Congress for working assiduously and sustaining the momentum until the final victory was won. I congratulate Nigerians for being witnesses to history. Mr Tinubu had severally advocated true federalism prior and during the electioneering campaigns of the last general elections. However, politicians in the geopolitical divide are not quite agreed on the extent of devolution of powers to states. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Senate, on Wednesday, mourned the death of the founder of DAAR Communications, Raymond Dokpesi. The mourning followed a motion moved by Francis Alimikhena (APC, Edo North) at the plenary session. Mr Dokpesi, who hailed from Edo State, died on Monday in Abuja at 71. Tony Akiotu, the group managing director of DAAR Communications, owners of African Independence Television and Raypower FM radio station, in a statement, said Mr Dokpesi died following a fall while using a treadmill machine as part of the exercise that he needed to undergo to recover from an undisclosed illness. In the motion, Mr Alimikhena prayed to the senate to encourage the federal government to immortalise the late founder of DAAR Communications for his contributions to the countrys development. The senator also urged the leadership of the upper legislative chamber to constitute a delegation to pay a courtesy visit to the family of the deceased. Mr Alimikhena said Mr Dokpesi used the media industry to make a huge contribution to the development of the country and the entire African continent. He also requested that the Senate observe one-minute silence in honour of the late founder of DAAR Communications. The Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, who presided over the plenary, thereafter directed members of the lawmakers to observe one-minute silence in memory of Mr Dokpesi. Contributing to the motion, Rochas Okorocha (APC, Imo West) hailed Mr Dokpesi for his contributions to the development of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Mr Okorocha said lMr Dokpesi, during his lifetime, was a loyal member of the PDP and to all party leaders, including its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. The deputy senate president also hailed the deceased for his support for the leadership of the 9th National Assembly. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Coordinator of the dissolved APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) in Zamfara State, Kabir Marafa, has assured that President Bola Tinubu will fulfil his promise to reward party loyalists that worked to ensure his victory at the 25 February poll. Mr Marafa gave the assurance on Tuesday during a dinner with members of the Zamfara PCC members in Abuja. The members had travelled to Abuja to witness the presidential inauguration, but some did not get the pass to attend the event held at Eagle Square. Mr Tinubu polled 298,396 votes to win the state during the election. After the inauguration, Mr Tinubu is expected to form his cabinet and make other appointments. Mr Marafa, a former senator, while apologising to PCC members for the unavailability of the gate pass to the inauguration venue, assured them that the days of monkey dey work, baboon dey chop are over, stating that the president is willing to reward members of the party. Mr President said he is still on his promise to change the reward system of government. And I am sure he is going to do it. Mr President appreciates what Zamfara did. Politics is about inclusion, politics is about people. So what I did is your efforts collectively, all of you. We all gathered to deliver. We give gratitude to God because we were given an assignment, and we delivered. Its not us; its God. God made it possible for all of us, and we have delivered, he said. Dont pity me Mr Marafa also asked his supporters not to feel sad over the outcome of the senatorial election in the state. Ikra Bilbis of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) polled 102,866 votes to defeat Mr Marafa, who scored 91,216 votes in the election. Aside from the election of Mr Marafas election, the APC also lost the governorship election to the PDP. Pity is for those that didnt try at all. Sympathy goes to people that tried but failed. Failure is an essential ingredient of success; without failure, you cannot succeed. We have learnt a lot from this. Some people were given an assignment, and they failed woefully; we were given an assignment, and we delivered triumphantly, so we thank God. So I want to assure you the president has Zamfara in his mind. He is the president of the country, not Zamfara alone. This is the person that appreciates people; this is a person that appreciates what people have done, he said. He, however, blamed the hypocrites in his party for the losses suffered by the party. We saw the signs of hypocrisy in Zamfara the time the president visited Zamfara State. That was the time we saw the cracks. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A bill seeking equal rights for women, men and persons living with disabilities has passed the second reading at the Senate. Biodun Olujimi (PDP, Ekiti South) sponsored the bill. The bill was introduced in the Senate in 2021 but was frustrated by some senators who objected that it was against the Islamic perspective and some socio-cultural norms. The lawmakers agreed that the concerns raised against the bill should be erased before consideration and passage. Leading debate on the bill at the plenary on Wednesday, Mrs Olujimi said it would create a conducive atmosphere for women and persons with disabilities when it is finally passed. The bill seeks to implement section 42 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It also seeks to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women. It will ensure the equality of opportunities for every person. You will find this bill beneficial for the clear and constructive ways the bill seeks to address several forms of issues bedevilling men and women in their constituencies in issues of land ownership, inheritance, education, employment and the rising tide of sexual and gender-based violence in private and public spaces of institutions of learning, she added. The bill further consolidates Senates courageous passage of the bill on sexual violence in higher institutions in Nigeria, assuring girls, women and men of protection from abuse and exploitation in our schools, she said. Contributing to the debate, Yusuf Yusuf (Taraba Central) said the title of the bill should reflect equity and not equality. READ ALSO: Senator reintroduces Gender Equality Bill The Deputy Chief Whip, Sabi Abdullahi, also argued that the bills sponsor failed to identify the areas the Senate had earlier raised concerns against. He submitted that it would be better for the sponsor to identify points that have been changed in the bill before it will be considered for passage. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Muslim pilgrims to Mecca from Plateau State said they are worried that neither medical officials nor guides travelled with them to the holy land. Premium Times learnt that officials from Plateau State may be forced to stay back because the immediate past administration did not remit funds for the states hajj operation before handing over to the new administration. Sources said the absence of these essential officials could cause chaos among the states entourage, as pilgrims may not have access to quality healthcare, proper guidance, and even food. Hajj officials are instrumental to the orderliness of hajj operations. Each state is expected to assemble a team of medical personnel, hajj guides comprising of religious scholars as well as other officials to ensure orderliness in food distribution and movement of pilgrims from one location to another. A pilgrim who travelled on Friday said the entourage from the state are also panicking and things may get worse as pilgrims move from Mecca to Medina in the coming days. He said a pilgrim suffered from epileptic complications during the flight and there was no health official on board to assist. It was later on that we realized that there was not a single official to guide us. We have been left on our own, he said. The management of the board announced to us yesterday that government had not remitted money for the hajj guides and other officials and there is nothing we can do about it. We have been asked to return home, an Islamic cleric told this newpaper. Asked of the implication of this for first time pilgrims, he said: There is huge implication because many people dont know much on how to perform the Hajj. They are always guided by the scholars. Whenever they have questions, they come to the guides for clarification. So, there is tendency that some may lose their Hajj because if you dont do it as enshrined, your have lost everything. Efforts to reach the boards executive secretary, Auwal Abdullahi, for comments was unsuccessful as he did not respond to calls and a text message sent to his phone. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Did you know that Florida governor and Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis worked at the US detention center at Guantanamo Bay? Journalist Seamus Malekafzali recently rounded up some of the extant reporting on DeSantis's time at Guantanamo and boy howdy, it's something! From Malekafzali: While DeSantis had enlisted in the Navy after the beginning of the Iraq War in 2004, he did not go with the sole intention of serving in the American occupation of that country. In fact, working at Guantanamo Bay was one of the selling points that led him to join. He writes in his book that was released this year, The Courage to be Free, that a navy recruiter told the then-Harvard law student that there would need to be military JAGs ("judge advocates" or military lawyers) to lead prosecutions at Guantanamo Bay. DeSantis remarks that that idea "seemed like a good opportunity to make an impact." And so DeSantis enlisted and became a Naval JAG, putting a bachelor's degree from Yale and a doctorate in law from Harvard to use. DeSantis would get his initial wish two years later: he would be joining up at Joint Task Force Guantanamo. DeSantis, as a JAG officer, dealt with the conditions of detainees at the camp, advised on how to address issues they may have, and supposedly was there to make sure regulations were followed during interrogations. Malekafzali does a lot of great digging into this, and you should read the full piece on Substack. But here are a few of the details I learned that I found particularly eye-opening. Like this Harper's Magazine transcript in which former detainee Mansoor Adayfi, who spent 14 years at Guantanamo without any charges or trial, shares his personal experience with DeSantis: In 2006, when DeSantis was there, it was one of the worst times at Guantanamo. The administration, the guards, all of them were the worst. They cracked down on us so hard. When they came to break our hunger strike, a team came to us. The head of the team, he was a general. He said, "I have a job. I was sent here to break your fucking hunger strike. I don't care why you are here. I don't care who you are. My job is to make you eat. Today we are talking. Tomorrow there will be no talking." The second day, they brought piles of Ensure and they started force-feeding us over and over again. [] Ron DeSantis was there watching us. We were crying, screaming. We were tied to the feeding chair. And he was watching. He was laughing. Our stomachs could not hold this amount of Ensure. They poured one can after another. So when he approached me, I said, "This is the way we are treated!" He said, "You should eat." I threw up in his face. Literally on his face. To reiterate: DeSantis was there as a Naval JAG lawyer, which meant it his job to ensure that everyone was being treated humanely. Ron Desantis Once Oversaw Torture at Guantanamo Bay. Now, He Wants Your Vote [Seamus Malekafzali / Substack] Chinese President XI Jinping has pledged increased economic cooperation with Nigeria, saying the country is important to Africa and the world. The Chinese president spoke through his Special Envoy, Peng Qinghua, vice chairperson, Standing Committee of National Peoples Congress, Peoples Republic of China who met with President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja on Wednesday. Mr Qinghua said the two countries at present had good bilateral relations and economic cooperation, noting that Chinese companies were doing well in Nigeria in railways, roads, hydropower and free trade zones. While commending Mr Tinubus plan to lead Nigeria to a new era of economic development and prosperity, the Chinese envoy, however, said there were areas where Nigeria could benefit from China. He called on the two countries to share ideas and align strategies, urging the president to also create more conducive environment for investment. Responding, Mr Tinubu said Nigeria is open for business and constructive partnerships, and would do business with any country ready to do business with it. He promised that his administration would work to promote ease of doing business. He said: We need accelerated growth and we are ready to do business honestly with those ready to do business with us. We will continue to work to promote democracy in the West African sub-region. Im a product of democracy and shall work day and night to advance democracy. READ ALSO: Turkish President congratulates Tinubu We will fight terrorism and all forms of criminality. We can learn from each other, but we will remain non-aligned. The Chinese delegation included Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, and Minister-Counselor Zhang Yi. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Two senators, Matthew Urhoghide (Edo South) and Patrick Akinyelure (Ondo Central) have announced their resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Their resignations were contained in separate letters to the Senate and read by the Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, who presided over the plenary on Wednesday. Messrs Urhoghide and Akinyelure were silent on the party they are defecting to but the deputy senate president who read the letters, urged them to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). While Mr Urhoghide said his resignation takes immediate effect, Mr Akinyelure said his resignation will take effect on 11 June, 2023 after the expiration of his third term in the Senate. Mr Urhoghide, the chairman of senate committee on public accounts, said he is resigning from the PDP because of the differences among leaders of the party. He claimed that the differences would not allow him to grow politically if he continues to stay as a member of the party. Mr Urhoghide extended appreciation to the leadership of the PDP for giving him the political platform to contest and win elections that had brought him to the senate. I write to formally inform you and the entire people of Nigeria that I am resigning my membership from the Peoples Democratic Party, effective immediately, he said. It will be difficult for someone like me to grow and function as a leader. I am grateful to the party for giving me the platform. In his letter, Mr Akinyelure, chairman of the Senate committee on ethics, privileges and public petitions, noted that he wished leaders of the PDP best of luck in their future endeavours. Both senators were not reelected to the next Senate session, which will be inaugurated on 13 June. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Two women leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Birnin Gwari Local Government were kidnapped by gunmen on Tuesday. The chairman of the Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressive Union (BEPU), Ishaq Kasai, confirmed the development to reporters in Kaduna on Wednesday. Mr Kasai said the incident happened around the Manini area when the victims were returning from the inauguration ceremony of the new governor of Kaduna, Uba Sani. He said the bandits blocked the road and kidnapped the two APC women leaders alongside many unidentified travellers. Mr Kasai said among the kidnapped travellers were the women leaders Lami Awarware and her assistant, Haulatu Aliyu. He said the kidnappers were yet to contact the families of the victims. The police spokesperson in Kaduna, Muhammed Jalige, could not be immediately reached Wednesday evening to comment on the incident. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Two senators, who resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday, have explained why they took the action. They also expressed willingness to join any other political party that will accept their terms of negotiations. Matthew Urhoghide (Edo South) and Patrick Akinyelure (Ondo Central) announced their resignations from the PDP through letters addressed separately to the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, and read at the plenary earlier on Wednesday. In the letter, Mr Urhoghide said his resignation from the PDP would take immediate effect while Mr Akinyelure said his resignation would take effect on 11 June 11, 2023 after expiration of the 9th Senate. The senators, while addressing journalists in Abuja shortly after the plenary, said they are willing to offer their political experiences to any party ready to accept their terms and conditions. The two senators lost their reelection bid oninto the Senate for a third term. Ganged up Mr Akinyelure said some leaders of the PDP in his state ganged up against him and they ensured he lost his reelection for offence he never committed. I dont know what I have done but God will judge everybody. They planned against my reelection and I kept quiet and I have decided at the end of my tenure, Ill resign from the party, he said. The Ondo senator said he was one of those who is funding the PDP. I funded the party and we led the party. They dont want anybody to grow. We added value to people, we are professionals, we dont live alone on what we get from the Senate. We supported the past government with everything we had in the Senate. All the good promises that can add value to the people that the Buhari administration proposed, we supported it. We have sent out resignation to the national chairman, state chairmen and even our ward chairmen. We have not decamped to any party but we are politicians. If our service is needed for the development of the country, we are available. We are free to join any party if negotiations pay us. I am a stakeholder and I am open. If any party needs my service, Mr Akinyerule said. Irreconcilable difference Mr Urhoghide, on his part, said he decided to exit the PDP because he could no longer cope with the irreconcilable differences among the leaders of the party in Edo State. In my state Edo, there have been irreconcilable differences. I have been with many factions. I tried everything to reconcile the crisis but it wasnt working. READ ALSO: Two PDP senators resign from party We lost the presidential election because of the differences. Nobody wants to accept the other person, youre all a witness to what is happening. I felt that the only way out is to stay out of the party. I have not seen any changes in the party now. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A Max Air aircraft carrying at least 559 pilgrims from Jigawa State on Wednesday made an emergency landing at the Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano, after it was struck by lightning. The pilgrims who were going to Saudi Arabia for the 2023 hajj exercise had departed the Duste International Airport at 4:45 p.m. Max Air manager in Kano, Bello Ramadan, told PREMIUM TIMES that the plane requested to land at the Kano airport after its windscreen was hit by lightning. The problem is not as much as the passengers are reporting, some of them are panicking and reporting what did not happen, the airplanes engine and tires are in perfect condition. We have provided an alternative plane to continue the journey, the plane is about fueling, and the passengers are okay, even though some of them are panicking but there is no cause for alarm. It was a lightning strike that affected the left side screen, thank God it was mere scratch and not broken and the pilot decided to return. Very soon they will continue with the journey, Mr Ramanda said. Addressing reporters before the plane departed Duste airport, the Executive Secretary of the Jigawa Pilgrims Board, Umar Labbo, said the first batch of pilgrims was drawn from 16 out of 27 local government areas of the state. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print I saw his other videos, and I actually pitied him. The reek of poverty from his lack of circumspection was too strong to miss. He made and shared a video in the plane to shame sufferhead as he departedHe overshares; he wants to look-like, be-like, act-like, and feel-like; he forces the better-than visage and he exhibits exaggerated pride and pleasure. One of the latest clips on his Facebook page shows him recording himself in a hotel, while he kept chanting central landeen, ham hin central landeen (London). He who guards his mouth preserves his life, But he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction. While this is not a religious exercise, I think there shall be no better opening of this article than this Solomonic wisdom submission penned down in Proverbs 13:3. My father was heavy on Yoruba folklore music; his favourites were Yusuf Olatunji, Ayinla Omowura (Eegun-mogaji), and Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. A devout Anglican with a jealous preference for those hymnals, yet his love for this other genre was centred on the rich usage of instructive Yoruba proverbs in their lyrics. I cant remember which of his three favs used the proverb below in one of their songs, but it went like this: Eyin to tayo, wahala enu ni. A protruded tooth is a problem to the mouth the literal translation but then, during one of his impassioned sessions in training us (sigh, those sessions! LOL), I remember Dad saying that the figurative meaning of this particular proverb can be derived from another Yoruba phrasing: ikora eni ni ijanu. Ikora eni ni ijanu is translated as knowing when to apply brakes to your speech, knowing when to bridle your lips, and having the ability to be circumspect with what you say, as your words are mostly a direct reflection of your persona and approach to things. All of this can be summed up in one word TACT and over the years, Ive learnt that of the choicest set of skills needed to exist as a successful human, tact is top. When you lack tact, you lack a lot. In fact, the lack of tact, not money, is the real poverty. In this age where the thirst for clicks is endemic, tact is becoming increasingly rare, and it seems all of us run the risk of getting caught up too. In the real world, it is a skill you MUST have to thrive sustainably and last long; however, social media has also grown real enough to demand the same degree of tact in our dealings and interactions across digital spaces. Ive seen a couple of past videos of the Number One pariah in the country at the moment, one Emdee Tiamiyu, and it is safe to say his current predicament is not far-fetched. Loose lips, hubris, a forceful deportment, and a propensity to overshare. It wasnt hard to understand why the BBC spotted him as a useful pawn cum hee-diot to intimate a new policy, and why he happily mis-yarned in the clip making the rounds. (No, dont stretch it, Tiamuyus statements had no bearing on the new UK immigration policy, he just proved to be a wishful, thirsty tool to further it from an immigrants perspective). Tactlessness. Knowing what to say (or not) but not knowing WHEN and WHEN NOT to say it. I saw his other videos, and I actually pitied him. The reek of poverty from his lack of circumspection was too strong to miss. He made and shared a video in the plane to shame sufferhead as he departedHe overshares; he wants to look-like, be-like, act-like, and feel-like; he forces the better-than visage and he exhibits exaggerated pride and pleasure. One of the latest clips on his Facebook page shows him recording himself in a hotel, while he kept chanting central landeen, ham hin central landeen (London). As I watched him, I didnt know when I uttered heeyah, followed by, poverty of tact and of the mind na wahala sha. Eyin to tayo, wahala enu ni. A protruded tooth is a problem to the mouth. A tactless persona is trouble to the bearer. Tiamiyu is currently learning this the hard way. Forget the bad publicity is good publicity rationale, it doesnt apply in situations like these as the price for self-sabotage is higher nowadays than we realise or accept. Finally, apparently, British authorities must be clinking glasses that Nigerian dependents were done in by one of their own. While we know their decision to ban dependent immigration through the route Emdee Tiamiyu blew the whistle on must have been in the works for a while, it is clear they waited for the right moment that depicts even one of your own affirmed it to strike. While he must be praying that this cup passes quickly so that the public may move on to the next trending subject, I hope the lessons are learnt by him and also by us, the watching public. In this age where the thirst for clicks is endemic, tact is becoming increasingly rare, and it seems all of us run the risk of getting caught up too. In the real world, it is a skill you MUST have to thrive sustainably and last long; however, social media has also grown real enough to demand the same degree of tact in our dealings and interactions across digital spaces. The world has become a global village with no doors; we see and access each other with the least effort, and it is not something to fear if one is able to apply the tenets of tact. So, Sayo, dont just stop at acquiring knowledge, get tact too, and continually update it. Over to you, friends. Finally, apparently, British authorities must be clinking glasses that Nigerian dependents were done in by one of their own. While we know their decision to ban dependent immigration through the route Emdee Tiamiyu blew the whistle on must have been in the works for a while, it is clear they waited for the right moment that depicts even one of your own affirmed it to strike. They will now need to also sleep with only one eye closed in Tiamiyu matters. Because in the words of Israelmore Ayivor, Save your skin from the corrosive acids from the mouths of toxic people. Someone who just helped you to speak evil about another person can later help another person to speak evil about you. Sayo Aluko, a digital media strategist and brand communications professional lives in Lagos. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The disregard of court orders or use of the court to influence or repress citizens was one of the shortcomings of the administration. If the government that has sworn to uphold the constitution and respect the independence of all arms of government actively ignores judicial decisions, how much respect and restraint can be expected from private citizens? The Buhari Years: What We Ordered vs What We Got civil society leaders reflect on the Buhari Administration and its achievements, shortcomings, and regressive actions. Following the expiration of President Muhammadu Buharis administration, there have been arguments that Buharis eight-year administration, which we would tag as his legacy, has left Nigerians with unfulfilled expectations. While many believe that the former president reneged on several fronts in the last eight years, others believe that he did the best he could under the circumstances and urge other Nigerians not to rule out some of the achievements of the administration. After emerging as the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress on 11th December, 2014, Buhari pledged to govern Nigeria honestly under the constitution, strive to secure the country and efficiently manage the economy, attack poverty through shared economic growth, attack corruption through the impartial application of the law, tolerate no religious, regional, economic or gender bias in government, return Nigeria into a position of international respect through patriotic foreign policy and to choose the best Nigerians for the right jobs. The predominant ones among his promises were the fight against corruption, tackling insecurity, and revamping the countrys economy. Tackling corruption is synonymous with the promotion of transparency and accountability in all sectors, where there is the availability of accurate information about various issues, the commitments and performance of actors, and holding institutions and actors accountable for their actions. Transparency and accountability contribute to establishing legitimacy and credibility of operations, along with legality, and ultimately strengthening democracy and the rule of law at all levels. In the discussion around corruption, the judiciary isnt left out. The judiciary being the third arm of government should be independent of the other two arms of government the executive and legislature. The independence of each of the three arms of government allows for effective checks and balances which should foster and strengthen a vibrant democracy. The judiciary has experienced innumerable challenges, ranging from perceived corrupt practices by judicial officers, to interference by politicians, low level of public trust in the judiciary, and the poor state of infrastructure, which includes inefficient filing and case management systems. Effective internal reforms of the judiciary will reduce vulnerability to external pressures. Adequate funding, infrastructure and skilled manpower are amongst the areas to be addressed to have a judiciary that is properly poised to discharge its functions and overall optimal performance. There were and continue to be strategic entry points for the reform of the judiciary, so as to make it an effective third arm of government. In response to this, President Muhammadu Buhari, on the 22nd of May 2020, signed Executive Order 10 (EO10) which seeks to enforce the implementation of the Fourth Alteration to the Constitution and provide a practical framework for the legislative and judicial arms of state governments to have financial autonomy. This was perceived by the judiciary and the public as a positive approach, however many state governors failed to adopt it as they, through their Attorney-Generals filed a suit on 17 September, 2020, contending the constitutionality of the Executive Order. The judgement by the Apex Court stated that the EO10 violates the provisions of the 1999 Constitution, which clearly stipulates the functions and powers of heads of each arm of the government, and concluded that Buhari acted beyond his powers by signing the EO10. This brings judicial dependency to the highest level. Historical incidents of partisanship, corruption, and incompetence combined with worsening negative public perception have created a situation where the operations of the judicial branch of government in Nigeria threaten public order and stability. The disregard of court orders or use of the court to influence or repress citizens was one of the shortcomings of the administration. If the government that has sworn to uphold the constitution and respect the independence of all arms of government actively ignores judicial decisions, how much respect and restraint can be expected from private citizens? This played out during the aftermath of the #EndSARS protests in 2020, when young people demanded national police reform. By not deliberately and systemically using its enormous constitutional powers to protect citizens from abuse, the court system bears some responsibility for the episodes of violence that seized Nigeria during the protests. Nine #EndSARS protesters from Rivers State were held without charge or bail between 21st October 2020 and 17th February 2021. A clear violation of the law, but the action has brought no consequence to the perpetrators. A clear example of how impunity amplifies illegality generally, and human rights violations specifically. All the above not only undermine the competency of the judiciary but also showcase that the judiciary is incapable of pronouncing unbiased judgement, especially when it concerns the executive arm or the political class. The new administration needs to hold itself to a higher standard of upholding the Rule of Law and working proactively to ensure that the judiciary is respected and takes its place as the third arm of government. This can be done by upholding the Rule of Law and ensuring a transparent and accountable government, and efforts should be made to amend the Constitution to effectively enforce judicial independence. Kemi Okenyodo is the executive director of The Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative (also known as Partners West Africa-Nigeria), a women-led non-governmental organisation dedicated to enhancing citizens participation in security, governance and criminal justice reform. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print For the fourth consecutive year, Zenith Bank Plc has been named as the Best Corporate Governance Financial Services Africa 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom. The award, which was published in the Spring 2023 edition of The Ethical Boardroom magazine, is in recognition of the banks adherence to global best practices and institutionalization of corporate governance, setting an industry-wide example of best practices in that field. Speaking on the recognition, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc, Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, said: I am extremely pleased that Zenith Bank has been awarded the Ethical Boardroom Corporate Governance award as a regional governance champion for the fourth year running. No doubt, the banks board has pioneered the exemplary governance culture for which we are now renowned. Indeed, this recognition reflects our steadfast commitment, discipline and high ethos in the conduct of our business and dedication to the principles of good corporate governance. This award will motivate us to strengthen this culture internally and advocate for good governance at every forum. He dedicated the award to the Founder and Group Chairman of the bank Jim Ovia, for providing the template for an enduring and very successful institution; the Board for their vision and outstanding leadership; the staff for their dedication and commitment; and the banks customers for their unwavering loyalty to the brand. Ethical Boardroom is a trailblazing and leading international magazine that delivers in-depth coverage and critically-astute analysis of global corporate governance issues to help boards stay ahead of the governance curve. Zenith Bank has been generally adjudged a Corporate Governance compliant bank by the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) hence its listing on the Premium Board of the Exchange. The bank continues to sustain this reputation and reappraise its processes to ensure that its business conforms to the highest global standards at all times. The banks track record of excellent performances has continued to earn it numerous awards including being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital, for the 13th consecutive year, in the 2022 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking published by The Banker Magazine; Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Bankers Bank of the Year awards 2020 and 2022. It has also won the Best Bank in Nigeria, award for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022, in the Global Finance Worlds Best Banks awards; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria 2021 and 2022 in the World Finance Banking awards; Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria in the World Finance Corporate Governance awards 2022; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation In Retail Banking, Nigeria in the International Banker 2022 Banking awards. Also, the bank emerged as the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands 2020 and 2021, and Retail Bank of the year, for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022, at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) awards. Similarly, Zenith Bank was named as Bank of the Decade (Peoples Choice) at the ThisDay awards 2020, Bank of the Year 2021 by Champion Newspaper, Bank of the Year 2022 by New Telegraph Newspaper, and Most Responsible Organisation in Africa 2021 by SERAS awards. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Professor Umar Garba Danbatta, will be conferred with the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) award, among other notable Nigerians. The announcement was made in an advertorial signed by the Director-General of the National Productivity Center, Dr. Nasir Olaitan Raji-Mustapha. A statement issued on Tuesday by Reuben Muoka Director, Public Affairs of NCC said the award heralds Danbattas exceptional achievements and significant contributions to the development and advancement of the Nigerian telecommunications industry. The NPOM award recognises individuals, who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and dedication in their respective fields, and Danbattas recognition highlights his outstanding contributions to the NCC and the telecommunications sector as a whole. During his tenure at the NCC, Danbatta has spearheaded several initiatives that have revolutionized the telecommunications landscape in Nigeria. His visionary leadership and strategic decisions have led to remarkable achievements and noteworthy milestones for the industry. Some of the key accomplishments attributed to Danbattas tenure include the promotion of broadband penetration, consumer empowerment and protection, sustainable industry growth, and digital inclusion and innovation, among others. Under the promotion of broadband penetration, Danbattas relentless efforts to enhance broadband connectivity across Nigeria have resulted in substantial improvements in internet access and affordability. This has played a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth. In the area of consumer empowerment and protection, Danbatta has prioritized the interests and rights of telecom consumers, implementing consumer-centric policies and initiatives. Notably, the NCCs toll-free line for consumer complaints, introduced under his leadership, has provided an accessible platform for addressing consumer grievances and ensuring their protection. With respect to sustainable industry growth, under Danbattas guidance, the telecommunications sector has witnessed significant investments and healthy competition. His strategic leadership has fueled innovation, resulting in sustainable industry growth and a positive impact on Nigerias economy. Also, recognising the transformative power of digital technology, Danbatta has championed programmes to promote digital inclusion and empower marginalized communities in his efforts to deepen digital inclusion and innovation. Initiatives such as the NCCs Digital Nigeria Centre (DNC), formerly known as the School Knowledge Centers (SKCs) and Emergency Communication Centers (ECCs) have improved access to digital resources and enhanced emergency response capabilities across the nation. READ ALSO NCC expresses commitment to digital job creation for youths The conferment of the 2023 NPOM award on Danbatta serves as a testament to his remarkable achievements and exceptional leadership within the NCC. His contributions have not only positioned Nigeria as a key player in the global digital landscape but have also positively impacted the lives of millions of Nigerians. The NPOM Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates individuals, who have made significant contributions to productivity, innovation, and national development. Danbattas well-deserved recognition further solidifies his reputation as a transformative leader and industry trailblazer. Muoka added that Danbattas achievements are worth celebrating by the entire telecommunications industry and the nation, at large. The statement added that his exemplary leadership and contributions serve as an inspiration to future generations and reaffirm Nigerias commitment to technological progress and national productivity. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The leading global toothpaste brand, in collaboration with Nigeria Dental Association, NDA, and FDA, has kicked off its school activation programme in primary schools across the nation to promote oral health education in Nigeria. The school activation programme titled Pepsodent Brush Day and Night School Programme is targeted at educating and reaching a minimum of 2,000,000 pupils between the age of six and 11 in six states that include Lagos, Rivers, Enugu, Imo, Kaduna, and Edo. Speaking during the kick-off of the activation programme held at St. Saviour Primary School in Lagos, Marketing Head, Beauty and Wellbeing and Personal Care, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Oiza Gyang, noted that the oral hygiene programme has been designed to engage children in primary schools for the next three months after which students will be rewarded for their full participation. Speaking on the mechanism of the 21-day challenge, Gyang stated that the activation would happen five days a week while the activation team would return after 21 days to reward students who complete the challenge. Studies have shown that behavioural change happens 21 days after repeated action. Oral conditions are among the worlds most widespread chronic diseases. In Nigeria, it is the leading cause of absenteeism among school children. The whole idea about this challenge is to encourage young kids to imbibe the habits of good oral behavior. As you are aware, Oral health is critical to any individuals well-being and productivity. We are passionate about families and children, and we believe that complete oral protection for the family is achievable. We believe that with this activation and the level of awareness we are creating, a lot of young pupils would see the significance of having good oral hygiene, she said. She further stressed that the activation programme aims to encourage oral behavioral change among young school kids, which would lead to their general well-being and good quality of life. According to her, the goal of the activation programme is to reach as many children as possible with the critical message of brushing twice daily with Pepsodent Triple Protection to protect against cavities and ensure fresh breath and white teeth. Also speaking at the occasion, the Category Manager, Oral Care, Pepsodent, Eva Ogudu, stated that Unilever as a company remains a force for good in the quest to entrench a culture of oral hygiene that would consequently lead to the overall well-being of Nigerians. Ogudu noted that the activation is being carried out in line with the mission of spreading outstanding oral health around the world such that people can unlock the power of their smiles. She further stated that the companys ambitious target is to reach 10 million children by 2025, disclosing that the campaign has reached over 6 million school children nationwide. In his remarks, the Chairman, the Nigerian Dental Association, Lagos Chapter, Dr. Oluwole Olusanya stressed the need for parents and caregivers to inculcate the habits of regular brushing of teeth among their children relatively early to keep bacteria under control and consequently prevent oral infections such as tooth decay or gum diseases. Olusanya noted that failure to take care of ones oral health could have a profound negative effect on other parts of the body and result in severe health conditions. Globally, Pepsodent has been at the forefront of driving behavioral change in oral health. Over the past seven years, Pepsodent has educated over 6 million children in Nigeria on the importance of brushing daily with free products and oral kits to encourage the habit. In Nigeria, Pepsodent toothpaste has been at the forefront of celebrating and owning the occasion with several activities such as the Schools Programme, Mobile Dental Clinics, Oral Health Education Conferences, and various consumer education and engagement across digital and traditional platforms. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Adidas has gone back to selling Hitler admirer Kanye West's Yeezy sneakers, about six months after the German shoemaker parted ways with the anti-Semitic entertainer. The company said it will donate a portion of the profits to the Anti-Defamation League and the Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change. (Whenever I read "a portion of the profits" I mentally swap it with "one percent.") In a statement, Adidas CEO Bjrn Gulden said,"We believe (selling and donating these Yeezys) is the best solution as it respects the created designs and produced shoes, it works for our people, resolves an inventory problem, and will have a positive impact in our communities." Adidas has fallen on hard times since it was forced to cut ties with West. From The Independent: Governor Kefas Agbu of Taraba State on Wednesday morning appointed Timothy Kataps as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG). Mr Agbu also appointed Jeji Williams as his Chief of Staff (CoS). The appointments were announced in a statement by Jemima Nathans the Head of Service of the state. Ms Nathans said the appointments take immediate effect. Mr Kataps was a former attorney general and commissioner of justice in the state. He was the SSG during the administration of the late Danbaba Suntai. He was also a former Northeast zonal deputy chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). While Mr Williams, a retired permanent secretary, had previously held appointments as Chief Press Secretary to former governor Jolly Nyame and permanent secretary of the states Abuja liaison office. After his retirement from the civil service, he contested for the Taraba North senatorial seat but did not win the partys primary election. Mr Williams appointment came as a big surprise to residents of the state as Josiah Kente, a former speaker of the states assembly was being speculated as the Chief of Staff designate. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print ( Read 2294 Times) Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was a frontline fighter of the Indian independence movement, great revolutionary, historian, social reformer, thinker, litterateur and intense nationalist leader. He was unique among revolutionaries around the world. His name was his message to the Indian revolutionaries. His books were like Bhagwad Geeta for the revolutionaries. His life was multifaceted. Veer Savarkar was born on 28 May 1883 in Bhagur village of Nashik. Savarkar is the only creator in this world whose book 'Independence Summer of 1857' was banned by the British even before its publication. This is the book through which Savarkar had proved the revolution of 1857, which was India's 'first freedom struggle'. Savarkarji was the first Indian to pass the law examination in first class. But he refused to take the oath of loyalty to the British government, due to which he was not given the title of advocate. He was the first superhero of the Indian freedom struggle, which raised the pitch for revolution among the masses. Veer Savarkar is such a great Indian revolutionary who was sentenced to life imprisonment twice in a single life by the British government for the crime of revolution. In 1911, he was sent to Kalepani i.e. Andaman. His elder brother Ganesh Savarkar was also imprisoned there. Savarkar was brutally tortured in the jail which became a cruel story. Extracting oil by plowing in a crusher, crushing coconut, whipping, keeping hungry and thirsty etc. Savarkar ji has described the torture given in the jail in his book "My life imprisonment". During the harsh punishment of Kala Pani' twice, he was kept in a dark cell for six months. Sentenced to solitary confinement thrice for one month each. Twice for seven days each, handcuffed and hung along the walls. Not only this, Savarkar was kept tied with chains for four months. Even after suffering such harsh tortures, Savarkar did not accept to bow down before the British. While since then some intellectuals of our country, some political parties like Congress, Aam Aadmi Party and Leftists are trying to blur their unforgettable sacrifices by accusing them of apologizing to the British by forgetting their creativity and sacrifices made for freedom. . Those who abuse Savarkar should understand that his stature in India's independence, if not more than Mahatma Gandhi, is not less. Veer Savarkar had said, "Suffering is a power that tests a man in tough situations and makes him move forward." Without knowing the reality and truth of Savarkar's sacrifices, without understanding the depth of his efforts and neutralizing them without studying, any Congressman and opposition have been levelling false allegations against him. He has been insulted for a long time. Recently, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi disrespected him by citing a letter, while Arvind Kejriwal had expressed his intention in a rally some time back by calling BJP people Savarkar's children. How long will this last? Now this should be stopped because such a person whose whole life is a true example of sacrifices given for the freedom of India. Such a person who has been dried like a thorn by giving poisoned food and water, when a false slander is levelled against him, the mind of any true Indian is disturbed, the brain is sad and the soul screams. Savarkar's statement is that "loyalty to duty consists only in facing difficulties, suffering and struggling throughout life; success and failure are matters of life. Savarkar's contribution is unique and unforgettable among those who dream of a united India and shape it. Today, in the midst of discussions about making a new India, uniting India with new contexts, and strengthening national unity, the Narendra Modi government has shown understanding by deciding to inaugurate the new Parliament House on the birthday of the great fighter of the Indian freedom movement. Humble tribute to this true legend. His holy memory and his philosophy of life are the pillar and ray of light in the nectar of freedom. Frontline freedom fighter Savarkarji's inspirations and teachings are beacons because they have the potential to build a new India. He had envisioned an India and a strong India in the midst of many adverse and struggling situations, the resolve to realize which is in the mind of every Indian today. A person's future starts to be seen from his behaviour in childhood itself. Veer Savarkar's childhood activities were telling that this boy would later become a courageous son of Mother India, whom people would recognize as 'Swatantryaveer Savarkar'. He started writing poems only from the age of eight-ten years. A deep impact of Shivaji on his life. Veer Savarkar himself used to read the victory tales of Shivaji with great interest, and also used to narrate them with pride to his friends. Due to this, the feelings of patriotism, sacrifice, dedication and service to the country started to grow strongly in his mind. By reaching the young age, Savarkar gave more momentum to his revolutionary thinking and activities. He also established another organization named 'Abhinav Bharat'. First of all, Savarkar did the work of challenging the British by burning Holi of foreign clothes. He also showed the courage to do revolutionary activities by entering the British house 'London'. With his efforts, the Golden Jubilee of the 1857 War of Independence was celebrated in London. By jumping from the ship into the middle of the sea, Vinayak became synonymous with courage. He had become 'worshipped' among the revolutionaries of India. Sardar Bhagat Singh has used respectful adjectives like 'Veer' and 'Pujneeyae' for Vinayak Damodar Savarkar in one of his articles. The British were horrified by his revolutionary activities, thoughts and organizational ability. To work for freedom, he formed a secret society, which came to be known as 'Mitra Mela'. After the partition of 1905, he burnt Holi of foreign clothes in Pune. The work he did to eradicate caste discrimination during the Ratnagiri movement was exemplary. There he launched a commendable campaign for Dalits to enter temples. Mahatma Gandhi then openly praised this campaign of Savarkar, even though Gandhiji and Savarkar had different views about the means of freedom. Savarkarji, endowed with unmatched talent, was a skilled human craftsman and a nation-craftsman. His life-philosophy on India's Hindu identity, origin and organization of Hindu society, marriage, upbringing of children by parents, mutual harmony, sociality, spirituality, religiousness, economic conditions, agriculture, lifestyle and many other such topics paves the way. Savarkar remained active in the freedom movement even while in jail. It is also a strange irony that the so-called historians did not do justice to the nation-warrior who suffered such harsh torture, tarnished his great personality and national-ideas. Even if someone wrote something, it was distorted and presented. Even though Veer Savarkar, inspired by the basic spirit of national upliftment, is not among us today, but his intense nationalist thinking will always be alive in the hearts of the nation and the people of the nation, such a brave son of India, Veer Savarkar, we all Indians will always be proud of. Because the aim of his life has been to strengthen his own culture, bright conduct, virtuous attitude and self-identity. Source : ( Read 1732 Times) Gurugram: LISSUN, Indias leading mental health platform, is proud to announce a remarkable expansion of its child mental health division as it welcomes the eminent psychologist, Dr. Roma Kumar, on board. With the invaluable addition of Dr. Roma Kumar to the team, LISSUN aims to redefine the landscape of child mental health care, ensuring a brighter future for the young minds of India. Dr. Roma Kumar is a highly accomplished psychologist with an illustrious career spanning over three decades (35 years). She currently holds the position of Senior Consultant Psychologist at the prestigious Institute of Child Health. In addition to serving as the Vice Chairperson (Psychology) at the Institute for Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences in Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Dr. Kumars expertise also extends to her role as a senior consultant at Max Hospital Gurgaon. She is also the founder of the esteemed Saksham Child and Adolescent Guidance Clinic, providing specialized care to young individuals. Moreover, Dr. Kumar is a partner and co-founder at Emotionally, an organization dedicated to revolutionizing mental health services. With her vast expertise and extensive contributions in the field of mental health, she has earned a stellar reputation as a thought leader and advocate for child and adolescent well-being. Understanding the vital significance of child mental health care, recent research has shed light on the alarming statistics that emphasize its importance. Research has shown that one in five children experience mental health challenges, and early intervention is key to their long-term well-being. By joining forces with Dr. Roma Kumar, LISSUN intends to enhance its capabilities and expand its reach in addressing the specific mental health needs of children and adolescents, ensuring that every individual receives the support and interventions they require for optimal well-being. Dr. Roma Kumar expressed her enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, I am delighted to join forces with LISSUN to further advance the field of child mental health care in India. Together, we will strive to provide holistic and evidence-based interventions for children and adolescents, empowering them to lead healthier and happier lives. We are delighted to welcome Dr. Roma Kumar to the LISSUN family, said Tarun Gupta, Co-Founder of LISSUN. With her remarkable proficiency and vast background in child mental health, she brings immense value to our organization. This partnership showcases LISSUNs resolute dedication to delivering inclusive, individualized, and easily accessible mental health services. By leveraging Dr. Roma Kumars extensive expertise and merging it with our technology-driven platform, we aspire to revolutionize the landscape of child mental healthcare. Together, our objective is to extend our reach to a broader audience, offering customized interventions and creating a significant positive influence on the well-being of children and teenagers. As part of their collaborative efforts, LISSUN and Dr. Roma Kumar will collaborate on the development of specialized protocols for Child Development Interventions and Services. Additionally, they will facilitate training programs for psychologists and other mental health staff working in child development clinics, upholding a consistent and high standard of care across the board. LISSUN also has ambitious plans to make significant advancements in the child mental health care domain by establishing 10+ Phygital child development centres, seamlessly integrating physical and digital resources. These centres will act as hubs of excellence, offering comprehensive support and interventions to promote the mental well-being of children. Source : This darling western lowland gorilla was born over the weekend at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. These gorillas are critically endangered so the birth of this baby is especially wonderful. The proud parents are Calaya, 20, and Baraka, 31. Caretakers don't want to interfere with the parental bonding so they still don't know the gender of the infant and hence haven't named it yet. "We are overjoyed to welcome a new infant to our western lowland gorilla troop," said primates curator Becky Malinsky. "Calaya is an experienced mother, and I have every confidence she will take excellent care of this baby, as she did with her first offspring, Moke. Since his birth in 2018, it's been wonderful seeing her nurturing and playful side come out. I encourage people to visit our gorilla family and be inspired to help save this critically endangered species in the wild." From the National Zoo: Successful event brings together industry leaders, highlights achievements, and promotes global collaboration SANYA, China, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from Hinews: The 2023 China Seed Congress & Nanfan Agricultural Silicon Valley Forum concluded successfully with over 3,000 domestic and international guests and industry players in attendance. During the four-day event, participants engaged in discussions and analysis of the seed industry's development, strategized for business growth, and exchanged valuable insights on revitalizing the seed sector. Several experts and scholars delivered presentations on identifying emerging trends and challenges in the seed industry today, articulated proposals for the revitalization of China's seed industry, and further development of Nanfan Agricultural Silicon Valley. Furthermore, at the main forum, the Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City Administration Bureau made an announcement calling for a collection of the physical exhibits for the Nanfan Museum that is now under construction. The museum aims to commemorate Nanfan's transformation into one of China's key seed breeding centers over the course of the past six decades. Construction of the museum began on October 10, 2022. In addition to showcasing Nanfan's achievements, the museum will include a section dedicated to honoring the resilience of Nanfan's older generation. Under the aegis of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, a collaborative effort by the China Seed Association, the Hainan Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and the Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City Administration Bureau has been initiated to gather Nanfan-related documentary sources, photos, plant samples, production tools, scientific research instruments, daily necessities, and other commemorative items. These artifacts will be used to create a panoramic showpiece that chronicles the history of Nanfan Agricultural Silicon Valley. Beyond preserving Nanfan's historical records, the museum will also feature a section highlighting Hainan Free Trade Port. Credit is given to the story of Nanfan's and of the trade port's success as one that exemplifies China's strong commitment to self-sufficiency and advancement in scientific and technological innovation. In addition to an exhibition area devoted to the products and services from 50 firms spanning the seed industrial chain, this year's event also included 13 sub-forums, as well as a special exhibit area dedicated to Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City. SOURCE Hinews New Store Boasts the State's Premier Kitchen & Bath Design Center EIGHTY FOUR, Pa., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- 84 Lumber, the nation's largest privately held building materials supplier, is proud to announce the relocation of its Morgantown, West Virginia store. The space includes roofing, trim, treated lumber, windows, doors, and a spectacular new kitchen and bath design center. 84 Lumber has had a home in West Virginia since 1958 and has been in the Morgantown area since 1978. The new facility is located at 3208 Earl L Core Road on over 10 acres, and currently employs 32 store associates, with plans to hire additional salespeople and sales support. Maryanne Reed, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, West Virginia University; Maggie Hardy, Owner & CEO, 84 Lumber; Mitch Feldman, VP Specialty Purchasing, Fleet Logistics, 84 Lumber Maggie Hardy, Owner & CEO, 84 Lumber, officially opens the new Morgantown, WV facility "We moved to this much larger facility because of the growth in Morgantown. We outgrew the previous space and needed more capacity to better serve our customers," said Maggie Hardy, owner & CEO of 84 Lumber. "Aside from offering essential materials to local builders and homeowners, I am proud to say that we will be the premier kitchen and bath, window, and door showroom in the state of West Virginia." The new full-service kitchen and bath design center includes a full cabinet center and an exclusive Andersen Window showroom. A certified kitchen and bath designer is also on staff to help guide customers through the design process. In addition, quartz and granite countertops, appliances, interior and exterior doors, decking, roofing, siding, and more will also be on display. "A showroom is a place for customers to shop, but it's so much more it's an experience," said Store Manager JC Whitehair. "Here, customers can go beyond window shopping. They can test, touch, try, and examine all the products." The showroom is open to both the public and the trade, including interior designers, builders, remodelers, and contractors. With the opening of this expanded store and manufacturing facility, 84 Lumber remains strong in its continued prospect for growth. "We value our customers and listen to what is important to them to grow their businesses. As a result, in West Virginia and across the country, we are growing and expanding in two ways opening new locations and investing in existing markets like Morgantown," said Hardy. Investing in the Future Hardy announced a $50,000 scholarship to West Virginia University. The 84 Lumber Endowed Scholarship is intended to assist students who are either a veteran, active-duty military, an ROTC cadet, a dependent of a military veteran or active-duty military, or a female student. "We take great pride in giving back to our military and veteran families, and we value the quality education and services provided by the state's premier academic institution, West Virginia University," said Hardy. West Virginia University is a public land-grant research university with its main campus in Morgantown. The WVU System is a family of distinctive campuses; 13 Morgantown colleges and schools offer 355 majors in agriculture, natural resources, and design; applied and human sciences; arts and sciences; business and economics; creative arts; dentistry; engineering and mineral resources; law; medicine; nursing; pharmacy; and public health. "West Virginia University is committed to helping veterans and active-military students. They and their families give so much of themselves, and we appreciate this endowment from 84 Lumber which will support scholarships so they may further their education," WVU President Gordon Gee said. 84 Lumber celebrated the new store location with the community over the Memorial Day Weekend. The event was attended by local business leaders, 84 Lumber associates, local and state government leaders, as well as customers and local vendors. The company helped to honor Hometown Heroes with a giveaway of United States flags during two public events. Attendees were invited to sign a banner with the name of their personal Hometown Hero whether a current military family member, a friend or neighbor, a veteran, or a deceased military serviceperson. The banner will be permanently displayed at the new 84 Lumber Morgantown location. The celebrations featured food, music, giveaways, special guest appearances by West Virginia athletes, as well as sawing and chopping demonstrations by Martha King, a two-time National Champion, and multi-title World Champion Lumber Jill. To learn more, visit www.84Lumber.com or follow 84 Lumber on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn. ABOUT 84 LUMBER Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, 84 Lumber Company is the nation's largest privately held supplier of building materials, manufactured components and industry-leading services for single and multi-family residences and commercial buildings. The company operates 310 facilities which include stores, component manufacturing plants, custom door shops and engineered wood product centers in 35 states. 84 Lumber also offers turnkey installation services for a variety of products, including framing, insulation, siding, windows, roofing, decking and drywall. A certified national women's business enterprise owned by Maggie Hardy, 84 Lumber was named one of America's Largest Private Companies by Forbes and also made the Inc. 5000 list of America's Fastest Growing Companies in 2022. For more information, visit 84lumber.com or join us at Facebook , Instagram or LinkedIn. SOURCE 84 Lumber New APIConnect mobile app meets students where they are and delivers a seamless experience for onboarding, orientation, and on-site delivery. AUSTIN, Texas, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Academic Programs International (API), an experiential learning and education technology provider, is pleased to launch the APIConnect mobile app for students. With this new app, students have useful features that make their onboarding, orientation, and on-site experiences safer and more enjoyable. Students can download the app from the Apple App and Google Play stores for the spring 2024 application season. Once students have applied to their program, APIConnect allows them to quickly dive into their onboarding process and easily and securely upload documents, such as their passport, headshot, and transcript, right from their phone. Furthermore, students receive notifications and nudges to ensure they stay on track and don't miss important deadlines. Prior to this launch, onboarding was one of the most stressful and cumbersome parts of the experiential learning process industry-wide. The APIConnect app makes it fun and easy for students. Using the APIConnect app, every student will be supported at every stage of their experiential learning journey. Tweet this The app also improves the orientation portion of the student journey, creating a level of consistency and access that is unparalleled in the industry. Students can watch videos and review important materials relevant to their personalized program and can access the content for reference again and again, at any time, from any place. Once students arrive in their host country, the APIConnect app transforms into an on-site concierge, providing important information about health and safety, their API resident director, housing details, city guides, travel management, calendar of events, activity planning and more. "API is on a mission to serve all students who want to study or intern abroad and to use technology to meet them where they are. In addition to providing unprecedented levels of student choice, we are making the onboarding, orientation, and on-site delivery of programs easier, safer, more intuitive, more affordable, and less stressful through our app," said Patrick Vogt, CEO. "The APIConnect mobile app will substantially improve students' feelings of preparedness and readiness by increasing transparency, providing choice, personalization, and delivering the right content at the right time from wherever students are. Using the APIConnect app, every student will be supported at every stage of their experiential learning journey. This is the start of a new level of service and support for students in our industry." About Academic Programs International (API) Academic Programs International (API) encourages students of all ages to embark on a lifelong experiential educational journey that enriches lives, communities and organizations and helps every student, college and company to achieve their goals. Through the creation of APIConnect, an experiential education technology platform, the company helps colleges, universities, and students create and discover learning experiences customized to meet their needs. APIConnect offers a vast library of destinations, accredited courses, internships, and original programming geared toward maximizing students' college experiences so they are better prepared for the workforce upon graduation. Based in Austin, TX, API sends thousands of students on hundreds of programs every year, both virtually and in nearly 70 cities in 26 countries in Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, North America, and the Middle East. Read more at https://apiabroad.com/ Contact: Mary Kay Hyde [email protected] SOURCE Academic Programs International Certification allows entry-level Portfolio Managers to advance their education and knowledge DENVER, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Academy of Certified Portfolio Managers (ACPM) is pleased to announce the Certified Portfolio Manager Candidate (CPMC) Program. The CPMC Program allows entry-level portfolio managers and finance professionals to advance their education and knowledge of fundamental security analysis, asset allocation, and portfolio management concepts to better manage discretionary portfolios. The CPMC Program is the first level and step to becoming a Certified Portfolio Manager (CPM). CPMC is open to professionals that meet at least one (1) of the following criteria: Currently enrolled for certificate, diploma or academic degree providing evidence of a four-year undergraduate degree Recent diploma or academic degree providing evidence of a four-year undergraduate degree (within past 3 years) 1 or more years of employment in the financial services industry. Coursework is fully online and self-paced. Successful completion awards candidates the CPMC certification and gives them the opportunity to earn the full CPM designation within three years. A CPMC becomes a member of the Academy of CPM, joining an elite community of serious Portfolio Managers committed to being the best in the industry. For more information or to enroll in the 2023 Program, please visit https://www.academyofcpm.org/ . About ACPM The Academy of Certified Portfolio Managers (ACPM) is an independent organization that creates and manages a credentialed program of excellence for training discretionary portfolio managers. The collaborative and continuous learning experience enables portfolio managers to achieve a higher level of expertise in multiple facets in an ever-changing and dynamic global economy. SOURCE Academy of Certified Portfolio Managers SINGAPORE, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pursuant to early warning requirements, Mercuria Energy Holdings (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. ("Mercuria") reports that it has acquired beneficial ownership of, and control or direction over, 25,848,765 common shares ("Common Shares") of Nevada Copper Corp. (the "Company") as a result of the exercise on May 10, 2023 of 25,848,765 Common Share purchase warrants previously issued to Mercuria by the Company on October 28, 2022 (the "Previous Warrants"). The total consideration paid for the Common Shares purchased by Mercuria as a result of the exercise of the Previous Warrants was C$6,700,000, at an exercise price of C$0.2592 per Common Share. As well, Mercuria acquired beneficial ownership of, and control or direction over, an additional 24,814,814 Common Shares and 12,407,407 Common Share purchase warrants ("New Warrants" and together with the Previous Warrants and all other warrants that may be owned by Mercuria at any time being the "Warrants") as a result of the purchase of 24,814,814 units of the Company ("Units") in the Company's public offering (the "Offering") of Units that closed on May 30, 2023. Under the Offering, the Company issued 196,038,400 Units. Each Unit consisted of one Common Share and one-half of one New Warrant. The total consideration paid for the 24,814,814 Units purchased by Mercuria under the Offering was approximately C$6,700,000, at a price of C$0.27 per Unit. On October 28, 2022, the Company issued to Mercuria a pro rata Common Share purchase warrant certificate (the "Warrant Certificate") pursuant to which Mercuria was granted 127,720,000 Previous Warrants, with each such Previous Warrant entitling Mercuria, upon the vesting of such Previous Warrants in accordance with the terms of the Warrant Certificate, to purchase one Common Share of the Company for each issued Previous Warrant at a purchase price of CAD$0.2592 per Common Share. The Previous Warrants vest, from time to time, in conjunction with the exercise of any of the warrants issued by the Company to Pala Investments Limited ("Pala") on October 28, 2022 (the "Pala Warrants"), thereby providing Mercuria with an ability to maintain its pro rata shareholding in the Company. Pursuant to a funding transaction agreed to on May 9, 2023 between the Company and certain stakeholders of the Company (including Mercuria) (the "Funding Transaction"), Mercuria agreed to exercise US$5,000,000 of Previous Warrants upon the announcement of the Funding Transaction and the Offering and upon the vesting of a sufficient number of such Previous Warrants to allow for such exercise. On May 10, 2023, Mercuria received a Previous Warrant vesting notice from the Company confirming that 14,733,800 Previous Warrants had vested as a result of the exercise by Pala of 46,000,000 Pala Warrants and waiving the vesting conditions set out in the Warrant Certificate in respect of an additional 11,114,965 Previous Warrants, thereby confirming that 25,848,765 Previous Warrants had become "Vested Warrants" under the Warrant Certificate. Upon receipt of such notice, Mercuria exercised all of the vested Previous Warrants to purchase 25,848,765 Common Shares at a price per Common Share of CAD$0.2592, for aggregate proceeds to the Company of approximately CAD$6,700,000 (US$5,000,000, converted using the Bank of Canada's exchange rate of 1.34 USD/CAD on May 8, 2023 (the "Exchange Rate")). Subsequently, on May 30, 2023, Mercuria purchased 24,814,814 Units under the Offering at a price per Unit of CAD$0.27, for aggregate proceeds to the Company of CAD$6,700,000 (US$5,000,000, converted using the Exchange Rate), resulting in the acquisition by Mercuria of an additional 24,814,814 Common Shares and 12,407,407 New Warrants. On May 29, 2023, 24,350,000 Warrants previously issued to Mercuria as part of units purchased by Mercuria pursuant to a public offering undertaken by the Company on November 29, 2021 expired, unexercised, in accordance with their terms. Further information in respect of the exercise of the Previous Warrants, the participation in the Funding Transaction (and the other transactions completed or contemplated by the Company thereunder) and the Offering is contained in the Company's press releases dated May 9, 2023 and May 30, 2023, copies of which can be found under the SEDAR profile of the Company at www.sedar.com . Immediately prior to the exercise of the Previous Warrants, Mercuria had beneficial ownership of and exercised control or direction over 175,700,394 Common Shares and 152,070,000 Warrants, representing approximately 24.28% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis (on the basis of 723,508,700 Common Shares being issued and outstanding), and approximately 25.72% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of all of the Pala Warrants and the Warrants then beneficially owned, controlled or directed by Mercuria. Immediately following the exercise of the Pala Warrants and the Previous Warrants and prior to the closing of the Offering, Mercuria had beneficial ownership of and exercised control or direction over 201,549,159 Common Shares and 126,221,235 Warrants, representing approximately 25.34% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis (on the basis of 795,357,465 Common Shares being issued and outstanding), and approximately 25.72% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of all of the Pala Warrants and the Warrants beneficially owned, controlled or directed by Mercuria. As a result of the exercise of the Pala Warrants and the Previous Warrants, the securityholding percentage of Mercuria in Common Shares of the Company increased from 24.33% to 25.34% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis, constituting an ownership increase of approximately 1.01%, and remained the same at approximately 25.72% on a partially-diluted basis. Immediately following the closing of the Offering, Mercuria had beneficial ownership of and exercised control or direction over 226,363,973 Common Shares and 114,278,642 Warrants, representing approximately 22.83% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis (on the basis of 991,395,865 Common Shares being issued and outstanding), and approximately 23.36% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of all of the Pala Warrants and the Warrants beneficially owned, controlled or directed by Mercuria. As a result of the closing of the Offering, the securityholding percentage of Mercuria in Common Shares of the Company decreased from 25.34% to 22.83% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis, constituting an ownership decrease of approximately 2.51%, and from 25.72% to 23.36% on a partially-diluted basis, constituting a decrease of approximately 2.36%. Mercuria holds the Common Shares and Warrants for investment purposes. Mercuria or another controlled entity, may acquire or dispose of additional securities of the Company in the future through the market, privately, or otherwise, as circumstances or market conditions warrant. Any transaction that Mercuria or another controlled entity, may pursue may be made at any time and from time to time without prior notice and will depend on a variety of factors, including, without limitation, the price and availability of the Company's securities, subsequent developments affecting the Company, its business and prospects, other investment and business opportunities available to Mercuria, general industry and economic conditions, the securities markets in general, tax considerations and other factors deemed relevant by Mercuria. The head office of the Company is located at 61 E. Pursel Lane, Yerington, Nevada, 89447. Mercuria will file an early warning report under the SEDAR profile of the Company at www.sedar.com . Mercuria Energy Holdings (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. 12 Marina View #26-01 Asia Square Tower 2 Singapore (018961) About Mercuria Established in 2004, the Mercuria group is one of the largest independent energy and commodity groups in the world, bringing efficiency to the commodity value chain with technology, expertise and solutions. Mercuria's business includes trading flows, strategic assets and structuring activities that generate more than $120 billion in turnover. The company has built upon a series of strategic acquisitions, including the physical commodities trading unit of JPMorgan Chase & Company, Noble Group's US gas and power business and the Aegean Marine Petroleum Network, reorganized as Minerva Bunkering. It has become one of the most active players in the renewable markets with more than fifty percent of new investments dedicated to the energy transition. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAW. SOURCE Mercuria Energy Xanamem is an oral, brain-penetrant tissue cortisol synthesis inhibitor that has shown promising safety and clinical activity in three placebo-controlled trials and has the potential to treat a variety of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases SYDNEY, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Actinogen Medical Limited (ASX: ACW) CEO Dr Steven Gourlay and CMO Dr Dana Hilt will present at the BIO International Convention, to be held at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center from June 5-8, 2023. The Actinogen presentation is scheduled at 4pm EST Monday June 5, in Room 403. Dr Gourlay and Dr Hilt will be discussing progress made with the Company's two ongoing Phase 2 trials: XanaCIDD Phase 2a trial of cognitive impairment in major depressive disorder This Phase 2a, proof-of-concept trial commenced in December 2022 and will treat 160 patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who also have cognitive impairment. Cognitive impairment is common in MDD and currently there are no anti-depressant drugs approved for its treatment, although some companies have reported trials to assess effects of their anti-depressants on cognition. Consequently, there is a high unmet need for novel and safe treatments for this indication. The trial is being conducted in Australia and the UK and will treat patients with 10 mg of Xanamem or placebo once daily for six weeks as monotherapy or added to stable background anti-depressant therapy. The primary endpoint is an attention composite of three computerized cognitive tests measuring attention and working memory. Depression is assessed as a key secondary endpoint using the MADRS scale. The trial is expected to report results in the first half of 2024. XanaMIA Phase 2b trial of mild-moderate Alzheimer's Disease (AD) Having completed a number of key steps to develop a global syndicate of investigators and trial sites for the upcoming Phase 2 trial, Actinogen is making several improvements to the trial design. The first patient is expected to be treated in the coming months and results are expected in the second half of 2025. Key features of the XanaMIA Phase 2b trial: The newly manufactured to-be-marketed tablet formulation will be used 330 patients will be enrolled for a longer, 36-week double-blind treatment period (24 weeks previously) to improve initial assessment of disease-modification effects in addition to those on cognitive preservation and enhancement Patients will be randomized 1:1:1 to Xanamem 10 mg, 5 mg, or a matching placebo Results of an interim analysis will be announced around the midpoint of the trial Patients with "mild-moderate AD" are now included to match the Phase 2a population with elevated blood pTau biomarker levels used to simulate the next trial and previously reported to have a large Xanamem effect on the CDR-SB endpoint of function and a test battery measuring cognition Elevated pTau level will be used to confirm AD diagnosis and amyloid PET scans will not be required Following extensive data analysis of prior trial data, the primary endpoint will be a cognitive composite of several tests, reflecting the strong cognitive effects of Xanamem in prior trials. The CDR-SB functional score remains a key secondary endpoint along with the assessment of activities of daily living. Dr Steven Gourlay, Actinogen CEO and MD, commented: "Actinogen is at an important juncture in the world of drug development with its promising oral therapy Xanamem. While recent positive data on new amyloid antibody infusions give Alzheimer's patients hope, they do not halt disease progression, highlighting the continued and urgent need to find effective and safe non-amyloid therapies. "Our high quality randomized XanaMIA Phase 2b trial will be conducted in 330 biomarker-positive patients with mild-moderate AD most likely to progress and will commence in the coming months. "Our XanaCIDD Phase 2a trial assessing the effects of Xanamem on cognition and depression represents a novel and important approach towards treating patients with MDD with the hope that the therapy will be rapidly acting on cognition, as we have seen in two prior trials in cognitively normal people. "We are excited to be implementing our high-quality programs in both Alzheimer's and cognitive impairment in depression and believe they will demonstrate and confirm the potent clinical benefit of Xanamem therapy." Announcement authorised by the Board of Directors of Actinogen Medical About Actinogen Medical Actinogen Medical (ACW) is an ASX-listed, biotechnology company developing a novel therapy for neurological and neuropsychiatric diseases associated with dysregulated brain cortisol. There is a strong association between cortisol and detrimental changes in the brain, affecting cognitive function, harm to brain cells and long-term cognitive health. Cognitive function means how a person understands, remembers and thinks clearly. Cognitive functions include memory, attention, reasoning, awareness and decision-making. Actinogen is currently developing its lead compound, Xanamem, as a promising new therapy for Alzheimer's Disease and Depression and hopes to study Fragile X Syndrome and other neurological and psychiatric diseases in the future. Reducing cortisol inside brain cells could have a positive impact in these and many other diseases. The cognitive dysfunction, behavioural abnormalities, and neuropsychological burden associated with these conditions is debilitating for patients, and there is a substantial unmet medical need for new and improved treatments. About Xanamem Xanamem's novel mechanism of action is to block the production of cortisol inside cells through the inhibition of the 11-HSD1 enzyme in the brain. Xanamem is designed to get into the brain after it is absorbed in the intestines upon swallowing its capsule. Chronically elevated cortisol is associated with cognitive decline in Alzheimer's Disease and excess cortisol is known to be toxic to brain cells. Cognitive impairment is also a feature in Depression and many other diseases. Cortisol itself is also associated with depressive symptoms and when targeted via other mechanisms has shown some promise in prior clinical trials. The Company has studied 11-HSD1 inhibition by Xanamem in more than 300 volunteers and patients, so far finding a statistically significant improvement in working memory and attention, compared with placebo, in healthy, older volunteers in two consecutive trials and clinically significant improvements in functional and cognitive ability in patients with biomarker-positive mild AD. Previously, high levels of target engagement in the brain with doses as low as 5 mg daily have been demonstrated in a human PET imaging study. A series of Phase 2 studies in multiple diseases is being conducted to further confirm and characterize Xanamem's therapeutic potential. Xanamem is an investigational product and is not approved for use outside of a clinical trial by the FDA or by any global regulatory authority. Xanamem is a trademark of Actinogen Medical. Disclaimer This announcement and attachments may contain certain "forward-looking statements" that are not historical facts; are based on subjective estimates, assumptions and qualifications; and relate to circumstances and events that have not taken place and may not take place. Such forward looking statements should be considered "at-risk statements" - not to be relied upon as they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors (such as significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties / contingencies and regulatory and clinical development risks, future outcomes and uncertainties) that may lead to actual results being materially different from any forward looking statement or the performance expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements that speak only as of the date hereof. Actinogen Medical does not undertake any obligation to revise such statements to reflect events or any change in circumstances arising after the date hereof, or to reflect the occurrence of or non-occurrence of any future events. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Actinogen Medical does not make any guarantee, representation or warranty as to the likelihood of achievement or reasonableness of any forward-looking statements and there can be no assurance or guarantee that any forward-looking statements will be realised. ACTINOGEN MEDICAL ENCOURAGES ALL CURRENT INVESTORS TO GO PAPERLESS BY REGISTERING THEIR DETAILS WITH THE DESIGNATED REGISTRY SERVICE PROVIDER, AUTOMIC GROUP. Xanamem is a registered trademark of Actinogen Medical Limited SOURCE Actinogen Medical Limited ATLANTA, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that ADMARES, which specializes in industrialized manufacturing of buildings and homes, plans to construct its first U.S. manufacturing facility in Waycross, Georgia. The company expects to create over 1,400 new jobs and invest $750 million in Ware County. "Projects like this prove that in every part of the state, Georgia has what job creators look for," said Governor Brian Kemp. "We're proud to welcome ADMARES to the No. 1 state for business and thankful for their decision to locate in a rural part of Georgia, as so many other companies have done in recent years. This project will not only bring more opportunities to hardworking Georgians, it will also help innovate the home building industry at a time when we need more rural workforce housing." ADMARES is a company that originates from Turku, Finland and specializes in the mass production of buildings using proprietary technology. Currently, the organization is in the process of relocating its headquarters to the U.S. while continuing to leverage its innovative technology. The company's buildings have been used in both the residential and hospitality sectors. "Our extensive experience in efficient shipbuilding and process oriented offshore industries has enabled us to innovate and collaborate with key partners Porsche Consulting, MHP A Porsche Company, and Siemens to develop groundbreaking manufacturing technology," said Mikael Hedberg, Founder and CEO of ADMARES. "With the rise of modern industrialization practices, we have combined our expertise to create a revolutionary robotic-driven manufacturing process that allows entire buildings to be manufactured at a factory rather than on a traditional construction site. With our advanced technology, we are adopting successful practices that are common in other advanced industries." "In addition to exploring opportunities in other states, Waycross, Georgia, is an ideal location for a transportation hub with easy access to major highways and extensive rail connections. Its proximity to the Port of Brunswick, one of the busiest ports on the eastern seaboard, offers a competitive advantage for global trade. Waycross' strategic location and robust infrastructure make it an attractive destination for us in the region," continued Hedberg. ADMARES has selected a greenfield site to construct a 2.5-million-square-foot build-to-suit facility located along Highway 23 in Waycross. The manufacturing facility will specialize in producing buildings for the housing sector and is expected to begin production in late 2025. The company will be hiring for positions in administration, management, engineering, and IT as well as logistics, assembly, robotics maintenance, and production. Interested individuals can learn more about working at ADMARES by visiting www.admares.com. "Welcome ADMARES, the newest corporation to join our thriving community in Ware County, Georgia. ADMARES' initiative to build homes not only contributes to the growth of our economy but also provides homes for countless families," said Waycross Mayor Michael-Angelo James. "I appreciate their commitment to creating 1,400 jobs for the City of Waycross, which will pave the way for numerous opportunities and steady employment. We look forward to seeing the positive impact that ADMARES will have on our beloved city, and we thank them for choosing to be a part of our community." "We are excited that ADMARES has chosen Ware County for their first production facility in the world," said Ware County Commission Chairman Elmer Thrift. "Their significant commitment to our community is evidence of the Waycross and Ware County Development Authority's efforts to develop and support a positive business environment for Ware County. We look forward to working with ADMARES and their success in the Ware County area." Senior Project Manager Elizabeth McLean represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development's (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with the Waycross and Ware County Development Authority, Georgia Power, and Georgia Quick Start. "Workforce housing is a growing national challenge, and Georgia is no exception. The new ADMARES facility is helping address that challenge, filling a niche that is critical to economic development," said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. "What sets our state apart is our history of partnership that brings together the public and private sectors to overcome complex challenges. Congratulations to our friends in Waycross and Ware County on their hard work." About ADMARES ADMARES is a global leader in the digital transformation of the construction industry. We are industrializing, productizing and digitalizing the manufacturing of homes. Our technology allows entire high-quality homes to be mass produced in a factory by assembly line workers without any need for traditional construction labor or traditional construction site. Learn more at www.admares.com. Media contacts: ADMARES Joni Rantasalo Director Marketing & PR E-mail: [email protected] The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/19101/3778001/2097214.pdf Press release (PDF) SOURCE Admares DUBLIN, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Africa Data Center Construction Market - Industry Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Africa data center construction market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.70% to reach $1,405.5 million by 2028 from $763.7 million in 2022. Key Highlights In the African data center construction market, South Africa is the major contributor to the capacity in the region, with more than 50%, followed by Nigeria , Kenya , and other African countries. Cloud-based services, smart city developments, and fiber connectivity drive continuous regional data center investments. is the major contributor to the capacity in the region, with more than 50%, followed by , , and other African countries. Cloud-based services, smart city developments, and fiber connectivity drive continuous regional data center investments. The region's major global cloud service providers include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, Google Cloud, Oracle, and Huawei Technologies. For instance, in September 2022 , Google Cloud announced its plan to open a new cloud region in Cape Town, South Africa . The cloud region is expected to be operational in the next 2-3 years. , Google Cloud announced its plan to open a new cloud region in . The cloud region is expected to be operational in the next 2-3 years. The Africa data center construction market grows continuously in terms of connectivity by deploying new submarine cables such as Africa -1, 2Africa, India Europe Xpress (IEX), Equiano, and Medusa Submarine Cable System SeaMeWe - 6, which are expected to be ready for services during the forecast period. Market Trends Deployment of 5G Technologies The introduction of the 5G network in Africa is likely to generate a substantial amount of data, which will further lead to increasing investments in the African data center construction market. High internet connectivity, bandwidth, and less processing time is the feature of 5G technology. The countries like South Africa , Nigeria , Kenya , Egypt , and Ethiopia , have witnessed the commercial launch of the 5G network in the region, while the countries like Ghana , Algeria , Tanzania , and Congo were in the initial stages of their development. is likely to generate a substantial amount of data, which will further lead to increasing investments in the African data center construction market. High internet connectivity, bandwidth, and less processing time is the feature of 5G technology. The countries like , , , , and , have witnessed the commercial launch of the 5G network in the region, while the countries like , , , and were in the initial stages of their development. Vodacom, MTN, Ericsson, Orange, Ethio Telecom, and Rain are the main telecom operators in Africa involved in the commercial deployment of 5G services that partially or entirely cover 5G services in the country. Several pilot 5G projects are underway and expected to be deployed in the forecasted period. Procurement of Renewable Energy Sources Due to the unavailability of proper power infrastructure in the African region, the facilities were forced to develop their renewable energy infrastructure for power generation. I. MTN, a South Africa-based telecom company, operates four data centers in Kenya and other African countries, uses renewable energy to power its facilities, and targets carbon neutrality by 2040. It has introduced the "Project Zero" program. II. In June 2022, Vantage Data Centers signed 20 years Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with SolarAfrica in which the company will procure 87 MWp of solar energy that will be used to power its new facility. The African region also has abundant availability of solar energy, like the Middle Eastern region. In contrast, most African countries are undertaking renewable energy strategies & visions to develop renewable energy projects and meet the carbon-neutral goals set by respective governments in the region. I. In July 2022, the Nigerian government made a statement regarding its commitment to the sustainability goal for 2030. The government is planning to generate 30 GW of electricity from renewable sources by generating renewable energy as 30% of its total production. II. Egypt expects to increase the share of electricity produced from renewable sources to 42% by 2035. Market Segmentation Data centers are investing in power infrastructure with a minimum of N+1 redundancy. In 2022, UPS systems accounted for a market share of more than 30% of the total electrical infrastructure in data centers. The Africa data center construction market is investing in cooling infrastructure due to the high-temperature climate in some African countries. In 2022, cooling systems service providers invested a share of more than 65% of the total mechanical infrastructure. data center construction market is investing in cooling infrastructure due to the high-temperature climate in some African countries. In 2022, cooling systems service providers invested a share of more than 65% of the total mechanical infrastructure. The region witnessed growth in the deployment of data centers in Tier III and Tier IV certification in the design phase/construction phase of the region. At the same time, most private and public entities (BFSI, education, government) have received Uptime Institute's Tier III/IV certification, either during the design phase or for the constructed facility. The report includes the investment in the following areas: Infrastructure Electrical Infrastructure Mechanical Infrastructure General Construction Electrical Infrastructure UPS Systems Generators Transfer Switches & Switchgear PDUs Other Electrical Infrastructure Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems Racks Other Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems CRAC and CRAH Units Chillers Units Cooling Towers, Condensers, and Dry Coolers Other Cooling Units Cooling Techniques Air-based Cooling Liquid-based Cooling General Construction Core & Shell Development Installation & Commissioning Services Engineering & Building Design Fire Detection & Suppression Physical Security DCIM/BMS Solutions Tier Standard Tier I & Tier II Tier III Tier IV Geographical Analysis In the Africa data center construction market, countries like South Africa , Kenya , and Nigeria are the developed data center markets in the region. Facilities in the region are developed with government support, which includes incentives for the operation of the data centers. data center construction market, countries like , , and are the developed data center markets in the region. Facilities in the region are developed with government support, which includes incentives for the operation of the data centers. Smart Cities, Special Economic Zones, Free Trade Zones, and governmental incentives and exemptions drive Africa data center construction market growth. South Africa , Kenya , Morocco , Nigeria , Egypt , Ethiopia , and Ghana are some of the major countries in the region which triggered the smart city investments. For instance, the Lanseria Smart City project, and Nkuna City project in South Africa , and the Eko Atlantic City in Nigeria . Geography Africa South Africa Kenya Nigeria Egypt Ethiopia Other African Countries Major Vendors Prominent Support Infrastructure Providers energy ABB Caterpillar Cummins Delta Electronics EATON EVAPCO Enlogic Legrand Master Power Technologies Rittal Rolls-Royce Schneider Electric Siemens STULZ Vertiv Prominent Data Center Construction Contractors Abbeydale Advanced Vision Morocco ARSMAGNA Arup Atkins b2 Architects CAP DC Chess Enterprises Copy Cat Group Eastra Solutions Edarat Group EDS Engineers Egypro H&MV Engineering Ingenium Interkel JLB Architects MWK Engineering Orascom Construction Royal HaskoningDHV Shaker Group Sterling & Wilson Summit Technology Solutions Tri-Star Construction United Egypt Westwood Management Data Center Investors st Century Technology Africa Data Centres Digital Parks Africa Galaxy Backbone icolo.io (Digital Realty) IXAfrica MainOne Medallion Communications NTT Global Data Centers Paratus Namibia Rack Centre Raxio Data Centres Telecom Egypt Teraco (Digital Realty) Wingu New Entrants Open Access Data Centres (OADC) Nxtra by Airtel Cloudoon Kasi Cloud Google Vantage Data Center Key Questions Answered: How big is the African data center construction market? What is the growth rate of the African data center construction market? What are the significant trends in the African data center construction market? What is the estimated market size in terms of area in the African data center construction market by 2028? Who are the new entrants in the African data center construction market? How much MW of power capacity is expected to reach the African data center construction market by 2028? Market Dynamics Opportunities & Trends Increase in Smart City Initiatives Government Support for Data Center Development Growing Adoption of Artificial Intelligence Migration from On-Premises to Colocation & Managed Services Rise in 5G Network Connectivity and Edge Data Center Deployments Growth Enablers Increasing Adoption of Cloud Services Growth in Penetration of Big Data & Iot Rise in Renewable Energy Adoption Increase in Submarine Cable & Inland Connectivity Restraints Low Budgets & Investment Constraints in Data Center Development Location Constraints on Data Centers Dearth of Skilled Workforce Security Threats in Data Centers For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/erqbau About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets Shannon Penrose and Sue Wiley bring extensive education leadership experience in leveraging opportunities to support K-12 school districts and educators INDIANAPOLIS, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As the nation faces significant K-12 teacher shortages, American College of Education (ACE) is taking intentional steps to evolve its academic products to address teacher recruitment and retention challenges. As senior vice presidents of education solutions, Shannon Penrose and Sue Wiley will spearhead the college's efforts to create tailored workforce solutions within K-12 education. Penrose's accolades, among many, include several years as an educator and, most recently, service as managing partner for Learning Ally. There, she collaborated with leadership at the Los Angeles Unified School District, one of the nation's largest, and designed and built a multi-year professional learning series in effective reading instruction. Additionally, with district approval, she partnered with MIT to develop an efficacy study focusing on the Learning Ally Audiobook Solution that fosters student reading engagement and performance. Her passion and education research in equity and inclusion, multilingual education, and building educator capacity and efficacy will serve ACE well. Wiley also has years of experience as an educator and notably started two alternative schools in Washington. She served at leading education organizations including Teachscape/Frontline, Mursion and Kaplan after working in business development in K-12 at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. One of the highlights of her career was working for NovaNET/Pearson, a company she was inspired to join after seeing the impact of their learning tools in her classroom. Wiley is devoted to equity, accessibility and student achievement all of which align with ACE's mission. "We are thrilled to welcome Shannon and Sue to the ACE leadership team," ACE President and CEO Geordie Hyland said. "At ACE, we endeavor to address the full education needs of a K-12 school district and ultimately help school districts attract, retain and upskill teachers. Our goal is for Shannon and Sue to support district administration with market-driven customized solutions." "We are keenly aware of the difficulties today's K-12 educators and leadership are facing," ACE Chief Growth Officer Monica Carson added. "Shannon and Sue's experience in education can guide ACE to capitalize on our established efforts to provide career advancement opportunities through higher education that will, in turn, initiate positive change throughout K-12 education." About American College of Education American College of Education (ACE) is an accredited, 100% online college specializing in high-quality, affordable programs in education, business, leadership, healthcare and nursing. ACE is ranked #2 on Newsweek's 2023 top online colleges list. Headquartered in Indianapolis, ACE offers more than 80 innovative and engaging programs for adult students to pursue a doctorate, specialist, master's or bachelor's degree, along with micro-credentials and graduate-level certificate programs. In addition to being a leader in online education, ACE is a Certified B Corporation. Certified B Corporations are leaders of a global movement to use the power of business to solve social and environmental problems. SOURCE American College of Education The Missouri House of Representatives was the stage for a fantastic display of one lawmaker refusing to let another's transphobic bills go unaddressed. Democrat Peter Merideth pretty much took anti-trans Republican majority floor leader Jonathan Patterson by the ear and yelled the truth at him. This is six minutes worth watching, however, Patterson displays the usual lack of understanding the GOP achieves before moving forward with their hateful legislation. His refusal to listen eventually tires Merideth out. TYT: TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V): LIT Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FSE): OAY3 OTCQB Venture Market (OTC): PNXLF VANCOUVER, BC, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. (TSXV: LIT) (FSE: OAY3) (OTC: PNXLF), ("Argentina Lithium" or the "Company") reports the completion of the ninth exploration hole at its Rincon West Project in Salta Province, Argentina, returning a 258 m interval ranging from 287 to 402 mg/l lithium. Two portions of this interval were not sampled, one length of 42 m and a second length of 33 m. "Our ninth exploration hole has returned the highest peak lithium value and longest concentrated brine interval reported to date on the Rincon West project. This rich brine zone remains open to the north, clearly demonstrating the requirement to expand drilling in this direction in a future campaign. These nine holes have overall produced the results we anticipated when we began exploration a year ago, demonstrating that the concentrated brines from the neighboring salt flat extend through the western basin." stated Miles Rideout, V.P. of Exploration. Nikolaos Cacos, CEO of Argentina Lithium added "Thus far, the Rincon West project has been a great success. We acquired our initial property at Salar de Rincon only 20 months ago. We have since added two new property blocks on the salar. With the initial drilling completed on the Villanoveno II block, our team is now working with external consultants to assess all of the data collected and to build a 3D model to support future resource estimation. Additionally, our drill contractor is scheduled to begin drilling five holes on the adjacent Rinconcita II block shortly, which should wrap up near the end of this year. We will then move our exploration focus to the Company's third property in the Rincon Salar, the Paso de Sico block further north. Recent developments have shown the Rincon Salar to be one of the standout basins in the Lithium Triangle, with two neighboring projects now entering production." The results of the brine analyses, type of sample collected, and the respective intervals from which the brine was recovered are shown in Table 1. Drill collar information is presented in Table 2. Table 3 presents a brief summary of the results of the initial nine-hole drill program executed over the Villanoveno II block at Rincon West over the last 12 months. The Rincon West Project is located west and north of Rio Tinto's adjacent Rincon Project, and covers 3742.8 hectares of the salar basin. Figure 1 presents a map of the Rincon West property showing the positions of all nine completed exploration holes (see News Releases dated July 13, 2022, October 3, 2022, October 25, 2022 , January 26, 2023 and April 24, 2023). The map in Figure 1 displays the drill locations overlaid on the conductive zones delineated with TEM geophysics (see May 2, 2022 News Release; Note: the easternmost property extension, the Rinconcita II block, was acquired after the completion of the TEM survey and therefore shows no geophysics results). Table 1: Interval data and results of brines analyses for lithium, potassium, and magnesium for drill hole RW-DDH-009 Sample interval (m) Sample Method Li K Mg Density From To Thickness (mg/litre) (g/ml) RW-DDH-009 59 71 12 Single packer <10 <20 <10 1.001 71 83 12 Single packer 31 554 305 1.019 83 95 12 Single packer 287 5256 2588 1.165 95 107 12 Single packer 323 6066 2857 1.183 107 119 12 Single packer 339 6390 2988 1.189 119 131 12 Single packer 304 5783 2685 1.172 173 194 21 Single packer 386 7116 3636 1.211 194 218 24 Single packer 375 6971 3439 1.204 218 242 24 Single packer 384 7376 3350 1.206 242 266 24 Single packer 402 7711 3495 1.215 299 341 42 Single packer 331 6292 2905 1.18 75 78 3 Double packer 15 295 167 1.009 *The drill hole was inclined vertically; the brine hosting strata are believed to be flat lying resulting in reported intervals approximating true thickness. Technical Details RW-DDH-009 was executed with diamond drilling (HQ-diameter), permitting the extraction of core samples of the salar basin formations and recovery of brine samples where possible. Drilling was executed between February 28 and March 23, 2023 stopping at 341.0 metres depth in altered volcanics. Geophysical profiling and lining the hole with 2" diameter PVC filters and tubing were completed on March 28, 2023. Drilling was carried out by Salta-based AGV Falcon Drilling SRL, under the supervision of Argentina Lithium's geologists. Table 2: Collar and maximum depth information for RW-DDH-009 Hole ID East North Elevation Azimuth Dip Depth UTM Zone 19S (WGS84) (m) (deg.) (deg.) (m) RW-DDH-009 680579 7339278 3771 n/a 90 341.0 Argentina Lithium's preferred method for brine sampling deploys a 'single packer' sampling unit during drilling. The packer sampling method allows the recovery of brine samples at specific depths while sealing the hole at the top and bottom of the interval. For single packer sampling, an inflatable seal closes the top of the interval; the lower limit of drilling represents the bottom of the interval. In certain instances, double packer sampling is conducted following the completion of drilling. In this case, inflatable seals are employed to close both the top and bottom of the sample interval. The maximum span of double packer sampling is limited to less than 4 m by the height of the drill mast and other equipment limitations. Observations regarding RW-DDH-009 RW-DDH-009 extends drilling northwards from previous holes. From near surface to 39 m depth, gravel and sand units were crossed, with rock clasts observed in the sandy sediments below 24 m depth. Sandy beds, and also minor gravel laminations were observed from 39 m to 59 m. Below this followed 2 m of silt and then 2 m of black sands. Medium-to-fine gravels were tested between 63 m and 110 m depths, followed by ignimbrites to 155 m. From 155 m to 238 m, a medium to coarse breccia was tested containing ignimbrite clasts. This unit exhibited fracturing and alteration at several levels. Ignimbrite, certain levels with fracturing, were tested between 238 m and 266 m depths, followed by a 2 m thick altered fault zone. An auto breccia of ignimbrite containing igneous clasts was logged to 316 m. Copper oxide streaks were observed within this unit at 289.6 m. Volcanic units with increased fracturing, and also fracture filled with a green mineral, were recovered from 316 m to the bottom of the hole at 341 m. All core samples recovered in drilling were retained for geologic logging. An extensive selection of samples has been sent for brine recovery testing at an independent laboratory. This analysis remains pending. Table 3: Summary of key results from initial Villanoveno II drill program East North Elevation Sample interval (m) Lithium News release UTM Zone19S WGS84 (m) From To Thickness Range (mg/litre) date RW-DDH-001 3747 73.3 156 82.7 241 to 380 13 July, 2022 681437E 7339184N RW-DDH-002 3761 182 305 123 337 to 367 3 Oct., 2022 682198E 7337700N RW-DDH-003 3799 299 353 54 152 25 Oct., 2022 682231E 7335900N RW-DDH-004 3744 95 227 132 334 to 393 25 Oct., 2022 682086E 7338774N RW-DDH-005 3808 194 260 66 168 to 209 26 Jan., 2023 680426E 7336767N RW-DDH-006 3764 167 320 153 329 to 393 26 Jan., 2023 681291E 7338205N RW-DDH-007 3775 143 321 178 241 to 340 23 Apr., 2023 681453E 7337379N -30 m of interval not sampled RW-DDH-008 3781 140 212 72 228 to 355 23 Apr., 2023 680688E 7337736N -27 m of interval not sampled RW-DDH-009 3771 83 341 258 287 to 402 Current 680579E 7339278N -2 lengths (33 and 44 m) of release interval not sampled *All drilling was inclined vertically; the brine hosting strata are believed to be flat lying resulting in reported intervals approximating true thickness. Analyses and QA/QC Samples of brine were submitted for analysis to Alex Stewart International Argentina S.A. ("Alex Stewart"), the local subsidiary of Alex Stewart International, an ISO 9001:2008 certified laboratory, with ISO 17025:2005 certification for the analysis of lithium, potassium and other elements. Alex Stewart employed Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry ("ICP-OES") as the analytical technique for the primary constituents of interest, including boron, calcium, potassium, lithium, and magnesium. Measurements in the field included pH, electrical conductivity, temperature and density. The quality of sample analytical results was controlled and assessed with a protocol of blank, duplicate and reference standard samples included within the sample sequence. For the hole RW-DDH-009, one blank and one duplicate sample reported within the acceptable range. A single medium-grade and a single high-grade reference standard sample were included within the submitted sample suite. The medium-grade reference standard analyses within 2 standard deviations (SD) with less than 0.25 relative percent difference (RPD); the high-grade reference standard returned less than 3 SD of the best value; with low RPD (2.90). Rincon West Project The following summarizes the properties held within the Rincon West Project. Villanoveno II and Demasia Villanoveno II, totaling 2491 hectares, are held under an option whereby the Company can earn a 100% interest, as described in the Company's September 28, 2021 News Release. Argentina Lithium has also purchased the 460.5 hectare Rinconcita II property, adjacent to Villanoveno II (see August 25, 2022 News Release). The Company entered into an option agreement to earn a 100% interest in four contiguous mine concessions, the "Paso de Sico" option, totalling 791.3 hectares in the northern part of the Salar de Rincon (see October 6 News Release). Qualified Person Frits Reidel, CPG is a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, and the Principal of Atacama Water, and is independent of Argentina Lithium. Mr. Reidel has reviewed the work carried out by the Company's exploration team at the early-stage Rincon West property. The disclosure in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Reidel. About Argentina Lithium Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp is focused on acquiring high quality lithium projects in Argentina and advancing them toward production in order to meet the growing global demand from the battery sector. The management group has a long history of success in the resource sector of Argentina and has assembled a first-rate team of experts to acquire and advance the best lithium properties in the "Lithium Triangle". The Company is a member of the Grosso Group, a resource management group that has pioneered exploration in Argentina since 1993. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD "Nikolaos Cacos" _______________________________ Nikolaos Cacos, President, CEO and Director www.argentinalithium.com Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including, without limitation, statements about the Company's plans for its mineral properties; the Company's business strategy, plans and outlooks; the future financial or operating performance of the Company; and future exploration and operating plans are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements and, even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: the impact of COVID-19; risks and uncertainties related to the ability to obtain, amend, or maintain licenses, permits, or surface rights; risks associated with technical difficulties in connection with mining activities; and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. Readers are encouraged to refer to the Company's public disclosure documents for a more detailed discussion of factors that may impact expected future results. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, unless required pursuant to applicable laws. We advise U.S. investors that the SEC's mining guidelines strictly prohibit information of this type in documents filed with the SEC. U.S. investors are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on our properties. SOURCE Argentina Lithium & Energy Corp. Researchers trained a computer model to understand the connections between thousands of genesand pinpoint how those connections go awry in human disease SAN FRANCISCO, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Researchers at Gladstone Institutes, the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have turned to artificial intelligence (AI) to help them understand how large networks of interconnected human genes control the function of cells, and how disruptions in those networks cause disease. Christina Theodoris and her colleagues at Gladstone Institutes, the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute trained a computer model to understand how genes interact. Photo: Michael Short/Gladstone Institutes Large language models, also known as foundation models, are AI systems that learn fundamental knowledge from massive amounts of general data, and then apply that knowledge to accomplish new tasksa process called transfer learning. These systems have recently gained mainstream attention with the release of ChatGPT, a chatbot built on a model from OpenAI. In the new work, published in the journal Nature, Gladstone Assistant Investigator Christina Theodoris, MD, PhD, developed a foundation model for understanding how genes interact. The new model, dubbed Geneformer, learns from massive amounts of data on gene interactions from a broad range of human tissues and transfers this knowledge to make predictions about how things might go wrong in disease. Theodoris and her team used Geneformer to shed light on how heart cells go awry in heart disease. This method, however, can tackle many other cell types and diseases too. "Geneformer has vast applications across many areas of biology, including discovering possible drug targets for disease," says Theodoris, who is also an assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics at UC San Francisco. "This approach will greatly advance our ability to design network-correcting therapies in diseases where progress has been obstructed by limited data." Theodoris designed Geneformer during a postdoctoral fellowship with X. Shirley Liu, PhD, former director of the Center for Functional Cancer Epigenetics at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Patrick Ellinor, MD, PhD, director of the Cardiovascular Disease Initiative at the Broad Instituteboth authors of the new study. A Network View Many genes, when active, set off cascades of molecular activity that trigger other genes to dial their activity up or down. Some of those genes, in turn, impact other genesor loop back and put the brakes on the first gene. So, when a scientist sketches out the connections between a few dozen related genes, the resulting network map often looks like a tangled spiderweb. If mapping out just a handful of genes in this way is messy, trying to understand connections between all 20,000 genes in the human genome is a formidable challenge. But such a massive network map would offer researchers insight into how entire networks of genes change with disease, and how to reverse those changes. "If a drug targets a gene that is peripheral within the network, it might have a small impact on how a cell functions or only manage the symptoms of a disease," says Theodoris. "But by restoring the normal levels of genes that play a central role in the network, you can treat the underlying disease process and have a much larger impact." Artificial Intelligence "Transfer Learning" Typically, to map gene networks, researchers rely on huge datasets that include many similar cells. They use a subset of AI systems, called machine learning platforms, to work out patterns within the data. For example, a machine learning algorithm could be trained on a large number of samples from patients with and without heart disease, and then learn the gene network patterns that differentiate diseased samples from healthy ones. However, standard machine learning models in biology are trained to only accomplish a single task. In order for the models accomplish a different task, they have to be retrained from scratch on new data. So, if researchers from the first example now wanted to identify diseased kidney, lung, or brain cells from their healthy counterparts, they'd need to start over and train a new algorithm with data from those tissues. The issue is that, for some diseases, there isn't enough existing data to train these machine learning models. In the new study, Theodoris, Ellinor, and their colleagues tackled this problem by leveraging a machine learning technique called "transfer learning" to train Geneformer as a foundational model whose core knowledge can be transferred to new tasks. First, they "pretrained" Geneformer to have a fundamental understanding of how genes interact by feeding it data about the activity level of genes in about 30 million cells from a broad range of human tissues. To demonstrate that the transfer learning approach was working, the scientists then fine-tuned Geneformer to make predictions about the connections between genes, or whether reducing the levels of certain genes would cause disease. Geneformer was able to make these predictions with much higher accuracy than alternative approaches because of the fundamental knowledge it gained during the pretraining process. In addition, Geneformer was able to make accurate predictions even when only shown a very small number of examples of relevant data. "This means Geneformer could be applied to make predictions in diseases where research progress has been slow because we don't have access to sufficiently large datasets, such as rare diseases and those affecting tissues that are difficult to sample in the clinic," says Theodoris. Lessons for Heart Disease Theodoris's team next set out to use transfer learning to advance discoveries in heart disease. They first asked Geneformer to predict which genes would have a detrimental effect on the development of cardiomyocytes, the muscle cells in the heart. Among the top genes identified by the model, many had already been associated with heart disease. "The fact that the model predicted genes that we already knew were really important for heart disease gave us additional confidence that it was able to make accurate predictions," says Theodoris. However, other potentially important genes identified by Geneformer had not been previously associated with heart disease, such as the gene TEAD4. And when the researchers removed TEAD4 from cardiomyocytes in the lab, the cells were no longer able to beat as robustly as healthy cells. Therefore, Geneformer had used transfer learning to make a new conclusion: even though it had not been fed any information on cells lacking TEAD4, it correctly predicted the important role that TEAD4 plays in cardiomyocyte function. Finally, the group asked Geneformer to predict which genes should be targeted to make diseased cardiomyocytes resemble healthy cells at a gene network level. When the researchers tested two of the proposed targets in cells affected by cardiomyopathy (a disease of the heart muscle), they indeed found that removing the predicted genes using CRISPR gene editing technology restored the beating ability of diseased cardiomyocytes. "In the course of learning what a normal gene network looks like and what a diseased gene network look like, Geneformer was able to figure out what features can be targeted to switch between the healthy and diseased states," says Theodoris. "The transfer learning approach allowed us to overcome the challenge of limited patient data to efficiently identify possible proteins to target with drugs in diseased cells." "A benefit of using Geneformer was the ability to predict which genes could help to switch cells between healthy and disease states," says Ellinor. "We were able to validate these predictions in cardiomyocytes in our laboratory at the Broad Institute." The researchers are planning to expand the number and types of cells that Geneformer has analyzed in order to keep boosting its ability to analyze gene networks. They've also made the model open-source so that other scientists can use it. "With standard approaches, you have to retrain a model from scratch for every new application," says Theodoris. "The really exciting thing about our approach is that Geneformer's fundamental knowledge about gene networks can now be transferred to answer many biological questions, and we're looking forward to seeing what other people do with it." About the Study The paper "Transfer learning enables predictions in network biology" was published in the journal Nature on May 31, 2023. Other authors are Ling Xiao, Mark Chaffin, Zeina Al Sayed, Matthew Hill and Helene Mantineo of the Broad Institute; Anant Chopra and Elizabeth Brydon of Bayer US LLC; and Zexian Zeng of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The work was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health (1RO1HL092577, 1R01HL157635, 5R01HL139731, T32GM007748), the American Heart Association (18SFRN34110082, 20CDA35260081), the European Union (MAESTRIA 965286), and a Helen Hay Whitney Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship. About Gladstone Institutes Gladstone Institutes is an independent, nonprofit life science research organization that uses visionary science and technology to overcome disease. Established in 1979, it is located in the epicenter of biomedical and technological innovation, in the Mission Bay neighborhood of San Francisco. Gladstone has created a research model that disrupts how science is done, funds big ideas, and attracts the brightest minds. About Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard was launched in 2004 to empower this generation of creative scientists to transform medicine. The Broad Institute seeks to describe the molecular components of life and their connections; discover the molecular basis of major human diseases; develop effective new approaches to diagnostics and therapeutics; and disseminate discoveries, tools, methods, and data openly to the entire scientific community. Founded by MIT, Harvard, Harvard-affiliated hospitals, and the visionary Los Angeles philanthropists Eli and Edythe L. Broad, the Broad Institute includes faculty, professional staff, and students from throughout the MIT and Harvard biomedical research communities and beyond, with collaborations spanning over a hundred private and public institutions in more than 40 countries worldwide. About Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is one of the world's leading centers of cancer research and treatment. Dana-Farber's mission is to reduce the burden of cancer through scientific inquiry, clinical care, education, community engagement, and advocacy. Dana-Farber is a federally designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School. We provide the latest treatments in cancer for adults through Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center and for children through Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. Dana-Farber is the only hospital nationwide with a top 5 U.S. News & World Report Best Cancer Hospital ranking in both adult and pediatric care. As a global leader in oncology, Dana-Farber is dedicated to a unique and equal balance between cancer research and care, translating the results of discovery into new treatments for patients locally and around the world, offering more than 1,100 clinical trials. Media Contact: Julie Langelier | Associate Director, Communications | [email protected] | 415.734.5000 SOURCE Gladstone Institutes; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Microsoft Azure customers worldwide now gain access to SQL Express on Windows Server 2022 to take advantage of the scalability, reliability, and agility of Azure to drive application development and shape business strategies. PRAGUE, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Belinda CZ s.r.o., with 25 years of IT experience, today announced the availability of SQL Express on Windows Server 2022 in the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, an online store providing applications and services for use on Azure. Belinda CZ s.r.o customers can now take advantage of the productive and trusted Azure cloud platform, with streamlined deployment and management. Belinda CZ s.r.o. Now Available in the Microsoft Azure Marketplace Moving business computing needs to a high-performance cloud solution is an exciting prospect that promises to revolutionize every process in the organization. But also moving local servers into the cloud is a very complex and time-consuming process. If the cloud servers are not standardized, it may result in different configurations in deployment, which in turn will lead to many problems in the final production environment. Therefore, providing Azure cloud servers should be done by means of pre-configured templates. SQL Express on Windows Server 2022 is powerful and reliable to use Windows Server 2022 template which contains pre-installed SQL Server Express as well as SSMS to manage SQL databases. This version of Windows Server 2022 is ideal for a small and large business. The standard pre-configured virtual server template provides a fast and easy installation without wasting time. You don't need more big data centers to have a server, only internet access and access to Azure. "Through our standardized solutions, we can minimize the complex and time-consuming processes of our customers," says Andre Stippel, CEO of Belinda CZ s.r.o. "The availability of Windows Server 2022 with SQL Server Express in the Microsoft Azure Marketplace gives us the opportunity to offer our advantages to a wider range of organizations." Belinda CZ s.r.o. has set itself the goal of automating and standardizing server provisioning to prevent different configurations during provisioning, which can lead to problems in production. Therefore, the server deployment on Azure should only be done through templates. "Jake Zborowski, General Manager, Microsoft Azure Platform at Microsoft Corp. said, "We're pleased to welcome Belinda CZ s.r.o. to the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, which gives our partners great exposure to cloud customers around the globe. Azure Marketplace offers world-class quality experiences from global trusted partners with solutions tested to work seamlessly with Azure." The Azure Marketplace is an online market for buying and selling cloud solutions certified to run on Azure. The Azure Marketplace helps connect companies seeking innovative, cloud-based solutions with partners who have developed solutions that are ready to use. Belinda CZ s.r.o. are highly skilled engineers with excellent technical knowledge and experience. The company helps customers grow their business by providing modern technology/service support and individual solutions. Focused on decreasing IT costs, whilst increasing team productivity, Belinda CZ s.r.o. work with large and start-up scale companies across any industry to deliver impactful software solutions that maximize benefits. For more information, press only: Belinda CZ s.r.o. www.belinda-cz.com (+420) 228 887 715 [email protected] Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089727/belinda_cz_sro_azure_marketplace.jpg SOURCE Belinda CZ s.r.o. PETALUMA, Calif., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Healthy Petaluma District and Foundation (Healthy Petaluma) and the City of Petaluma announce the launch of a city-wide Blue Zones Project to help residents live better, longer lives. Blue Zones Project is a comprehensive initiative that helps communities transform their environments to support healthy lifestyles and to measurably improve community well-being, resilience, and economic vitality. Blue Zones Project is a first-of-its-kind population health initiative based on research and principles developed by Dan Buettner, Blue Zones founder and National Geographic Fellow and Explorer who identified the cultures of the worldor blue zoneswith the healthiest, longest-living populations. Healthy Petaluma funded the initial Blue Zones Activate assessment, engaging the participation and collaboration of the City of Petaluma and over 100 community partners. During that time, the Blue Zones team did a deep dive into the city to determine if it was feasible to launch a community-wide initiative. The resulting in-depth readiness assessment found that, despite trending healthier than the national average, Petaluma displays room for improvement. According to Gallup findings included in the report, one out of two Petaluma residents are overweight or obese, two out of three are struggling with their health, and two out of five experience regular financial stress. These and other key reports of well-being confirmed the district's understanding that there are growing disparities among residents, particularly in youth, physical, and mental well-being. Blue Zones Project Petaluma will open doors for the community to prioritize and tackle issues at policy, environmental, and social levels. "We are thrilled to join forces with Healthy Petaluma to launch Blue Zones Project Petaluma," said Mayor Kevin McDonnell. "This initiative aligns perfectly with our values as a community, and we are excited to work within our vast network of community partnerships and residents to make Petaluma a healthier, happier, and more connected place to live." Research shows that where people live has a bigger influence on their health than their genetics, so Blue Zones Project focuses on the Life Radiusthe area close to home where people spend 90% of their lives. Blue Zones Project communities optimize public policies, social connections, and the places and spaces where people spend the most time (streets, parks, schools, workplaces, grocery stores, faith communities, homes) to help make healthy choices easy and more accessible to all. Participating communities have seen double-digit drops in obesity and smoking rates, economic investment in downtown corridors, grant funding awards to support policies and programs to improve health equity, and measurable savings in healthcare costs, among other positive outcomes. "Launching Blue Zones Project Petaluma is an exciting milestone for Healthy Petaluma as we further our mission to improve the health and well-being of southern Sonoma County," said Ramona Faith, CEO of Healthy Petaluma. "After learning about the Blue Zones model years ago and speaking with other communities that have engaged Blue Zones, we pursued efforts to engage their team here in Petaluma, starting with a highly successful Blue Zones Assessment last year. We, along with a coalition of community partners, believe the program's evidence-based approach is a great fit to measurably improve Petaluma's well-being, resilience, and economic vitality, particularly after the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. We look forward to the positive outcomes that this initiative will bring." The launch of Blue Zones Project represents the beginning of a multi-year collaborative effort that involves the entire community working together toward one common goal to support and build a culture of community health and well-being. The local implementation team began the 9-month foundation and planning phase in April and a kickoff event will occur early next year. Find more information about the Blue Zones Project Petaluma by clicking here. Ben Leedle, CEO of Blue Zones and co-founder of Blue Zones Project, said: "We commend the leaders in Petaluma that have invested in creating an environment and culture of well-being that will benefit current and future generations of residents. Higher well-being means healthier and happier residents, boosted economic vitality, and lower healthcare costs. Our team looks forward to helping Petaluma flourish and serve as a model for other communities to follow." About Blue Zones Project Blue Zones Project is a community-led well-being improvement initiative designed to make healthy choices easier through permanent changes to a city's environment, policy, and social networks. Blue Zones Project is based on research by Dan Buettner, a National Geographic Fellow and New York Times best-selling author who identified five cultures of the worldor blue zones with the highest concentration of people living to 100 years or older. Blue Zones Project incorporates Buettner's findings and works with cities to implement policies and programs that will move a community toward optimal health and well-being. Blue Zones launched the first pilot community in 2009 in Albert Lea, MN with groundbreaking results. Directly and also in partnership with Sharecare, the model has since been applied to more than 75 communities in the United States. Participating communities have experienced double-digit drops in obesity and tobacco use and have saved millions of dollars in healthcare costs. For more information, visit bluezones.com. About Healthy Petaluma District and Foundation Formerly the Petaluma Health Care District, Healthy Petaluma District and Foundation is a community-owned and -operated agency comprising a special district and a 501(c)(3) foundation dedicated to improving the health and well-being of southern Sonoma County through leadership, advocacy, support, partnerships and education. Its vision is to foster a healthier community and equitable access to comprehensive health and wellness services. The district has ensured access to local acute care and emergency services and has served southern Sonoma County's health and wellness needs since 1946. For more information, visit healthypetaluma.org. Contact: Naomi Imatome-Yun, Blue Zones naomi@bluezones.com 917.952.8534 Rebecca Ellecamp / Melinda Hepp [email protected] / [email protected] 707.971.0242 / 415.717.4624 SOURCE Blue Zones Tracking lifestyle consumption drivers & trends across Asia HONG KONG, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Asia's leading brand distributor and operator Bluebell Group released today the third volume of the "Asia Lifestyle Consumer Profile". Based on an Asia-wide survey covering 1,765 premium lifestyle consumers across 6 markets, the study presents insights into evolving sentiments and trends shaping consumption across premium and luxury segments including fashion, accessories & footwear, beauty, fragrance & make-up, active lifestyle and jewellery & watch. This year, three core trends have emerged in our study: Trend 1 - 'Safe' luxury: after the storm, consumers find a new comfort zone Figures suggest a resurgence of 'traditional' attitudes toward luxury, including the status that it represents, the importance placed on a brand's reputation, and expectations on service. But markets show distinct comfort zones when it comes to shopping pre-owned, local and niche. "During the pandemic, premium and luxury brands focused resources toward nurturing consumer relationships in new and innovative ways, through one-on-one interactions and other tailored retail solutions," said Bluebell Group President & CEO Ashley Micklewright. "Going forward, we see consumers continue to expect this heightened level of service excellence, which is particular to Asia." In 2023, luxury and status remain tightly interlinked in the minds of Asian consumers, led by Mainland China (94%) (above left). Interestingly, SEA and Japan saw high growths in consumers who agree that traditional luxury branded items make them feel like they have "achieved a certain status in life". Meanwhile, support for local brands has grown across mainland China (+5%), SEA (+14%), Korea (+13%) and Taiwan (+1%), where consumers agree they want to "support up and coming local premium brands that are gaining reputation" (above right). Trend 2 - The 'Feel Good' value shift: Healthy, Natural, Ethical Consumers want to feel good and make up for lost time. But where we might expect them to pursue simple hedonism, their definition of feeling good goes far beyond self-gratification. "While we see a strong 'revenge living' mentality, consumers appear to consider ethical and sustainable values as important components in the pleasure of purchasing premium and luxury products. Today it is an expectation," said Anne Geronimi, Group Communication and Sustainability Director. Already high in 2022, interest in 'natural choice' brands (above left) rose in SEA (+6%), Mainland China (+4%) and Korea (+3%). In all markets except for Japan, over 85% of respondents agree that they now prefer to buy those more 'natural' choice brands, be it in their ingredients or fabric. More widespread yet is the year-on-year growth in consumers who attach importance to brands' ethics and values (above right) - a growth led by Japan (+15%, from 62% to 77%) and SEA (+8%, from 83% to 91%). Mainland Chinese respondents (97%) are the most likely to check the ethics behind a brand before they purchase it. Trend 3 - New horizons: domestic and regional travel appeal Even as international destinations court them, mainland Chinese and Japanese consumers are drawn to local destinations. And while travellers from the rest of Asia are willing to spend on experiences, mainland Chinese travellers still plan to spend most on shopping both abroad and at home. "Travel and spending intent is good news for domestic destinations like Hainan in China, which invested heavily in the island's infrastructure to cater to both consumer experiences and shopping offering during the pandemic," said Samy Redjeb, Greater China Managing Director. While domestic destinations are attracting some consumers away from international travel (see report), they elicit different spending intents among consumers, with experiences such as F&B, spa and concerts (above top) topping the planned spending categories for the region as a whole. Mainland Chinese consumers are the exception to the rule: they are most likely to spend on luxury fashion (44%), beauty & Skincare (44%) and jewellery & watches (41%) during domestic travel. By contrast, spending intent during international travel is topped by luxury fashion, ranking first among consumers from Japan (67%), Korea (54%) and Taiwan (61%) (above bottom). Experiences (e.g. F&B, spa, concerts) rank second overall in Asia, and top the ranking for consumers from Hong Kong (64%). To download the full report, please visit https://www.bluebellgroup.com/market-insights/. ABOUT BLUEBELL GROUP Bluebell Group has pioneered building successful brands in Asia since 1954. As Asia's partner of choice, Bluebell Group is present in Japan, South Korea, Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Taiwan, Macau SAR, Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia and Australia. The Group's distribution network includes flagship stores, shop-in-shops, counters, its own multi-brand concepts, as well as a highly selective wholesale network, together with both direct e-commerce and marketplaces, covering both domestic and Travel Retail. The Group operates across multiple product categories: Accessories, Footwear, Apparel, Fragrance, Beauty, Gourmet, Jewellery, Watches, Eyewear and Tobacco. A family-owned group, Bluebell Group today has over 3,800 employees, 650 points-of-sale, US$2b in turnover. PRESS CONTACT: Anne Geronimi, Group Communication Director [email protected] Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088172/Figure_1_2.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088173/Figure_3_4.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088174/Figure_5.jpg SOURCE Bluebell Group This capital increase, most of which will go to the financial institution Braza Bank, has been already approved by Brazilian central bank. SAO PAULO, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Braza a group of companies operating since 2007 with financial solutions for international payments and transfers, including Braza Bank (a foreign exchange Bank in Brazil), Braza UK (an E-Money institution based in England), Braza PT (Branch in Portugal), Braza Tech (technology) and CloudBreak (multicurrency account), advances in the organization of its capital structure to offer more and more services to citizens and global companies. The Company has just reinforced its solidity and financial capillarity, announcing a capital increase of around R$50 million, days after taking the lead in the ranking of the Central Bank of Brazil, consolidating as the largest exclusive foreign exchange bank in the country, in American dollar volume. The contribution, made by the majority shareholders of the Company, aims to expand the portfolio of products and services worldwide, reinforcing its market coverage. Braza serves people and companies, through various exchange demands, such as exports, imports, financial remittances carried out in batches (mass payments), and multicurrency accounts, in addition to transfers and international purchases. Only in the last four years, it carried out around 10 million transactions, with a volume that exceeds R$ 300 billion. In addition, more than 6 million people and 7 thousand companies have transacted with the Institution. According to Heber Cardoso, CEO of the group, one of the differentials for reaching this level is the team's formation, organizational culture, and purpose. "We bring together professionals who have accumulated, on average, more than 20 years in the market and have extensive expertise to deliver customized solutions with quality and benefits above what the market offers", he comments. Another highlight is the value of the fees applied, which are the most competitive and affordable precisely because it has an institution in England, which eliminates intermediaries and makes BRL markets in Brazil. Since 2022, the group has quadrupled the number of employees and made investments in technology, cyber security, data infrastructure, governance, risk management, brand change, and expansion of financial products. SOURCE Braza Funds will improve water supply reliability, conserve water, and increase energy efficiency through the implementation of advanced metering infrastructure technology BOULDER, Colo., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- E Source, a leader in advancing utility technology projects, is pleased to announce that Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) in Brownsville, Texas, has been awarded a WaterSMART grant from the US Bureau of Reclamation. The $5 million grant will allow the utility to implement an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) solution. BPUB's AMI installation will replace more than 17,500 manual-read meters with smart meters. And the utility will retrofit almost 40,000 additional meters with AMI-compatible registers and endpoints. This upgrade will enable near-real-time monitoring of water usage, leak detection, and management. By proactively addressing leaks and reducing water loss, BPUB aims to conserve 2,103 acre-feet of water annually. Water loss prevention is the greatest benefit of the project and can be categorized as: Distribution-side leak detection and management Customer-side leak detection and management Improved customer water conservation and management Improved metering accuracy Theft detection and aversion The funds will allow BPUB to support energy and water equity by modernizing services for all customers and providing rate relief to disadvantaged communities. "We're thrilled to receive the WaterSMART grant, which recognizes our efforts to enhance water and energy efficiency in our community," says Eddy Hernandez, director of enterprise solutions at BPUB. "This funding will enable us to implement advanced technologies and innovative solutions that will significantly benefit our customers and the environment. We're grateful to E Source for their invaluable assistance in securing this grant and helping us achieve our goals." With E Source's support, BPUB completed a comprehensive application development process. The E Source team worked closely with BPUB to interface with Reclamation and the US Department of Interior, ensuring compliance with all requirements and gathering data for the application. E Source's expertise in crafting compelling narratives and highlighting project benefits played a vital role in securing this significant funding opportunity. E Source will continue to work with BPUB on the transition to AMI. "We appreciate BPUB's trust in our ability to secure the WaterSMART grant," says Kierra Thomas, senior consultant at E Source. "The E Source team worked closely with BPUB to carefully plan for the AMI implementation. And we're thrilled to have these funds to assist us as we kick off the project and make significant strides in technology, resource conservation, and sustainability, benefiting the citizens of Brownsville for years to come." WaterSMART grants are highly competitive and sought after by utilities across the country. These grants fund projects that enhance water and energy efficiency while promoting sustainable water management practices. BPUB's selection is a testament to the utility's commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. E Source has secured more than $22 million in grant funding for utilities across the US. The company's expertise in grant application development, data collection, and interfacing with granting organizations has been instrumental in the success of numerous projects. Like BPUB, utilities in Norman, Oklahoma; Galveston, Texas; Tacoma, Washington; Buena Park, California; Topeka, Kansas; Arlington, Texas; Ruston, Louisiana; and Danvers, Massachusetts have benefited from E Source's services and have achieved significant milestones in their sustainability efforts. Learn more about how E Source can help your utility craft a winning WaterSMART Water and Energy Efficiency Grant application. About Brownsville Public Utilities Board Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) is the primary utility company in Brownsville, Texas, serving as the largest electric and water provider in the city. With over a century of experience, BPUB is committed to delivering reliable services, promoting energy efficiency, and enhancing the quality of life for the community. Visit www.brownsville-pub.com for more information. About E Source E Source blends industry-leading research, predictive data science, and solution services to help utilities make better decisions to support their customers, their bottom line, and our planet. With a commitment to practical innovation, we use more than three decades of utility-focused experience and our unique solution set to help clients achieve their goal of becoming a Sustainable Utility. E Source is headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, with offices across the US. For more information, see www.esource.com. Media inquiries: Sannie Sieper Director of Marketing, E Source [email protected] 303-345-9138 SOURCE E Source Companies LLC SAN FRANCISCO, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The global cell culture industry size is poised to rise with mega-trends witnessed in stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine, according to the "Cell Culture Industry Data Book, 2023 2030," published by Grand View Research. Moreover, an infusion of funds into life science, biotechnology and biopharmaceutical research activities has redefined the ecosystem. For instance, developments in cell culture technology have leveraged food developers to use animal cells to produce food. Industry players have explored opportunities in vaccines and antibodies, which is expected to continue in the ensuing period. The trend suggests that 3D cell culture could be highly sought-after in drug development, tissue engineering and biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Investors and researchers expect 3D cell culture technology to solidify its position as a compelling tool in regenerative medicine, disease modeling and drug discovery. The prevalence of chronic disease and the trend for personalized medicine have prompted incumbents to invest in the technology. Recently, spheroids have gained momentum to foster the development of anticancer therapies. 3D tumor models have become instrumental in pre-clinical research, while the 3D cell culture has gained ground in regenerative medicine. The global 3D cell culture market size was valued at USD 1.74 billion in 2021 and is expected to witness a double-digit CAGR of 10.74% from 2022 to 2030. The applications of microfluidic networks to foster tissue differentiation will augur innovation, prompting leading players to unlock growth opportunities. Order your copy of the Free Sample of "Cell Culture Industry Data Book - Cell Culture, Cell Culture Media, 3D Cell Culture, Primary Cell Culture Market Size, Share, Trends Analysis, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030" Data Book, published by Grand View Research Stakeholders have upped investments in cell culture media (CCM) against the backdrop of the infusion of funds into vaccines and monoclonal antibodies. The FDA approval of cell-based vaccines has boded well for leading players gearing up to bolster their footprint. For instance, in October 2021, Seqirus received FDA approval for its cell-based quadrivalent influenza vaccine. Cell-based influenza vaccine technology is sought for notable production speed and scalability during an influenza pandemic. The global cell culture media market size garnered USD 3.62 billion in 2021 and could depict a CAGR of 12.13% through 2030. The robust outlook is attributed to the rising penetration of stem cell therapy in regeneration and tissue repair. With stem cells becoming instrumental in medicine and therapies, forward-looking companies are expected to bank on following trends and opportunities shaping the dynamics: A spike in oncology-based research and the expanding applications of gene therapy have spurred the demand for cell culture. Enzymatic disaggregation will be increasingly sought in primary cell culture for cell disaggregation for increased representation samples. The Asia Pacific market will provide promising growth potential on the back of research activities in regenerative medicines and oncology. Forward-looking companies envisage the U.S. and Canada to offer revenue-boosting opportunities, largely due to the infusion of funds into vaccine developments and investments in the pharmaceutical industry and animal cell culture technology. In November 2022, the U.S. FDA reported the completion of the first pre-market consultation for cultured animal cells-made human food. Predominantly, the U.S. CDC suggests that the only egg-free flu vaccines licensed for use in the U.S. are cell culture-based flu vaccine and recombinant flu vaccine. Go through the table of content of Cell Culture Industry Data Book to get a better understanding of the Coverage & Scope of the study The competitive scenario alludes to an increased emphasis on R&D activities, technological advancements, collaborations, mergers & acquisitions, geographical expansion, innovations and product launches. To illustrate, in September 2022, Thermo Fisher announced the addition of over 45,000 square feet to its dry powder media manufacturing in New York. The capacity expansion (part of a USD 650 million multi-year investment) is expected to boost the total bioprocess manufacturing capacity two-fold by 2023. Key players are cashing in modernizing drug discovery with the adoption of AI in their pipeline. In February 2022, Merck KGaA joined forces with Quris to use the latter's BioAI safety prediction platform. The platform can help anticipate the drug candidates that can work safely for humans with the integration of miniaturized human tissues on a chip, machine learning and nano-sensing. Check out more Industry Data Books, published by Grand View Research About Grand View Research Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research Helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead. Contact: Sherry James Corporate Sales Specialist, USA Grand View Research, Inc. Phone: 1-415-349-0058 Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/sector-reports-list Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/661327/Grand_View_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE Grand View Research, Inc. FAIRFAX, Va., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CGI Federal, the wholly-owned U.S. operating subsidiary of CGI Inc. (NYSE: GIB; TSX: GIB.A) announced today that it successfully completed pilot testing of Microsoft Azure Orbital Cloud Access and Nokia Private 5G communications within the Marine Corps Platform Integration Center (MCPIC) systems at Blount Island Command (BIC). CGI Federal is the first Microsoft global partner to deploy and demonstrate Azure Orbital Cloud Access, which enables low-latency access to the cloud from anywhere on the planet. "CGI Federal continues to bring unparalleled mission-focused innovation to the MCPIC program," stated Colonel John S. Sattely, Commanding Officer, BIC. "MCPIC has a considerable impact on our operational baseline, and these resilient communications capabilities offer significant potential improvements in logistics mission performance for Commanders in theater, and prove that MCPIC is already fit for the Department of Defense's next generation of networks." "Secure, consistent and ubiquitous connectivity is critical for successful mission operations," said Wes Anderson, Vice President for Defense, Microsoft Federal. "Through our collaboration with CGI Federal, we are bringing advanced connectivity with Microsoft Azure Orbital Cloud Access to ensure the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) can effectively operate anywhere their mission takes them." CGI Federal developed, deployed, and continues to maintain the MCPIC 2.0 systems, ensuring that the necessary equipment is in the right place, at the right time, and in the right condition. The CGI Federal team manages the complex coordination between USMC entities, bi-lateral partners, active duty, civilian, and contracted workforcesall of which are required to remain synchronized and responsive to the dynamic needs of the Corps' evolving mission. CGI Federal's successful pilot of Azure Orbital Cloud Access satellite backhaul alongside Nokia Private 5G, represents the potential for enhanced mission effectiveness and real-time visibility in global operating environments, while effectively using the USMC's enterprise migration to Azure. "Secure mission-ready communications is critical for success for the U.S. Federal Government," said Randy Coltrin, Vice President for strategic partnerships and development for Federal, Nokia of America Corporation. "Our partnership with CGI Federal and the technology solutions we provide ensure the customer is set up for mission success." "It is an honor to deliver innovation at the speed of mission for the USMC and, more broadly, to show that the Department of Defense has options when it comes to 5G and smart warehousing," added Horace Blackman, CGI Federal Senior Vice-President, Defense, Intelligence and Space. "With billions of dollars in government property tracked across the Department, CGI Federal's success in bringing best-of-breed capabilities for effective supply chain and logistics systems is a mission imperative. Strategic partners such as Microsoft and Nokia are key to our effort in delivering on these mission-oriented solutions." This MCPIC emerging technology pilot builds upon CGI's existing, proven portfolio of leading industry technologies such as passive Radio Frequency Identification (pRFID) hardware and tags, Internet of Things (IoT) sensor integrations, autonomous vehicles, hardened battery systems, communications equipment, and software development products. Testing was done under the auspices of Blount Island S6 using Blount Island facilities. About CGI Federal CGI Federal Inc., a wholly-owned U.S. operating subsidiary of CGI Inc., is dedicated to partnering with federal agencies to provide solutions for defense, civilian, healthcare and intelligence missions. Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest IT and business consulting services firms in the world. With 90,250 consultants and other professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. With Fiscal 2022 reported revenue of C$12.87 billion, CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com. Forward-looking information and statements This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other applicable United States safe harbors. All such forward-looking information and statements are made and disclosed in reliance upon the safe harbor provisions of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws. Forward-looking information and statements include all information and statements regarding CGI's intentions, plans, expectations, beliefs, objectives, future performance, and strategy, as well as any other information or statements that relate to future events or circumstances and which do not directly and exclusively relate to historical facts. Forward-looking information and statements often but not always use words such as "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "anticipate", "foresee", "plan", "predict", "project", "aim", "seek", "strive", "potential", "continue", "target", "may", "might", "could", "should", and similar expressions and variations thereof. These information and statements are based on our perception of historic trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other assumptions, both general and specific, that we believe are appropriate in the circumstances. Such information and statements are, however, by their very nature, subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, of which many are beyond the control of CGI, and which give rise to the possibility that actual results could differ materially from our expectations expressed in, or implied by, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not restricted to: risks related to the market such as the level of business activity of our clients, which is affected by economic conditions, and our ability to negotiate new contracts; risks related to our industry such as competition and our ability to attract and retain qualified employees, to develop and expand our services, to penetrate new markets, and to protect our intellectual property rights; risks related to our business such as risks associated with our growth strategy, including the integration of new operations, financial and operational risks inherent in worldwide operations, foreign exchange risks, income tax laws, our ability to negotiate favorable contractual terms, to deliver our services and to collect receivables, and the reputational and financial risks attendant to cybersecurity breaches and other incidents; as well as other risks identified or incorporated by reference in this press release, in CGI's annual and quarterly MD&A and in other documents that we make public, including our filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators (on SEDAR at www.sedar.com ) and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (on EDGAR at www.sec.gov ). Unless otherwise stated, the forward-looking information and statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and CGI disclaims any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. While we believe that our assumptions on which these forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are based were reasonable as at the date of this press release, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking information or statements. Furthermore, readers are reminded that forward-looking information and statements are presented for the sole purpose of assisting investors and others in understanding our objectives, strategic priorities and business outlook as well as our anticipated operating environment. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Further information on the risks that could cause our actual results to differ significantly from our current expectations may be found in the section titled "Risk Environment" of CGI's annual and quarterly MD&A, which is incorporated by reference in this cautionary statement. We also caution readers that the above-mentioned risks and the risks disclosed in CGI's annual and quarterly MD&A and other documents and filings are not the only ones that could affect us. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial could also have a material adverse effect on our financial position, financial performance, cash flows, business or reputation. SOURCE CGI Federal, Inc. REYKJAVIK, Iceland, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lucinity , a world-leading AI Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) company, is proud to contribute to the successful conclusion of the BIS Innovation Hub Nordic Centre's Project Aurora , a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reimagining the battle against money laundering. Global money laundering presents a significant challenge worldwide, often eluding detection, especially in cross-border transactions. Project Aurora is a pivotal response to this issue, proposing a powerful solution to an otherwise insidious problem. The project aims to demonstrate that by harnessing cutting-edge technologies and fostering international collaboration, it is possible to significantly enhance the detection of cross-border illicit financial activities while formulating proactive measures to prevent them. This novel approach can transform capabilities in the ongoing fight against money laundering and other financial crimes. The project began by meticulously combining the team's understanding of transactional data patterns and known money laundering schemes to generate a comprehensive synthetic cross-border transactional data set encapsulating multiple countries. Following this, the project employed state-of-the-art privacy-enhancing technologies and artificial intelligence to detect cross-border money laundering events more efficiently than traditional approaches while ensuring the utmost security for personally identifiable information. These results underscore the necessity of exploring such cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaboration among financial institutions. "Money laundering presents an intricate data challenge, as it is one of the hardest activities to detect in the world of financial crime. Project Aurora demonstrates how technology can provide better tools to face these challenges. However, technology on its own is not a silver bullet and requires new approaches to strong public and private collaboration supported by a legal and regulatory framework. It takes a network to defeat a network," said Beju Shah, Head of the BIS Innovation Hub Nordic Centre. Project Aurora has successfully identified typologies associated with cross-border money laundering activities, underscoring the superiority of AI models over traditional rule-based systems. The invaluable collaboration between the BIS Innovation Hub Nordic Centre and Lucinity's Data Science team has been pivotal to this achievement. The cornerstone of Project Aurora's success lies in the powerful synergy of privacy-enhancing technologies, graph-based machine learning models, extensive transaction monitoring systems, and effective collaboration, all of which can significantly bolster AML detection, thereby setting a new industry standard. "Collaborating with the BIS on Project Aurora has been a privilege and a defining moment in our mission to Make Money Good. We are not just using technology but setting new standards in the fight against money laundering and financial crime. Our partnership with the BIS Innovation Hub Nordic Centre demonstrates our unwavering commitment to driving innovation, fostering robust collaborative networks, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in our industry," said Gudmundur Kristjansson, Founder and CEO of Lucinity. Read the full Project Aurora report here. Contacts: Celina Pablo [email protected] +354 792 4321 SOURCE Lucinity Of the approximately 1,800 people who attended the Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) Conference in Atlanta, Georgia in late April, 181 reported that they became infected with Covid. While most of the attendees, who are disease detectives, say that they had been vaccinated, only 30% wore a mask. From The Washington Post: The CDC's Epidemic Intelligence Service officers and alumni the disease detectives deployed to identify and fight outbreaks met April 24-27 at an Atlanta hotel. The conference drew 1,800 in-person attendees, the first in-person Epidemic Intelligence Service gathering in four years. Like many conferences, it was crowded, with much face-to-face contact, many events held in small rooms and lots of socializing, according to attendees. About 70 percent of participants who responded to a CDC surveysaid they did not wear masks at the event. The outbreak of covid-19 cases at the conference underscores the persistence of an evolving and highly infectious virus. Another CDC global health meeting is scheduled for the same hotel in early June; about 300 to 400 people are expected to attend in person, said one CDC employee who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak. Leveraging their respective IoT expertise to accelerate the development of connected car technology in Saudi Arabia HONG KONG, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On 19th of April, China Telecom Global Limited ("CTG"), the world-leading provider of integrated telecommunication services, and stc group, the leading digital enabler in Saudi Arabia and the region, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen the IoT business, and explore business opportunities and innovations that will achieve common goals for both parties. The primary aim of the MOU will revolve around the strategic development of IoT industries, especially connected car projects in Saudi Arabia. Over the past few decades, Chinese automobile companies have solidified their presence in Saudi Arabia by exporting new and innovative vehicles. CTG and stc have entered a mutual agreement to leverage their respective IoT services, and the IoT expertise and partnership synergies to usher in the next generation of connected transportation and vehicles. This will allow CTG to further expand its market leading IoT solutions in the country and enhance Saudi Arabia's position as an interconnected hub in the Middle East. The agreement will provide an opportunity for both parties to promote growth in strategic areas and capture synergies that will go towards fulfilling the obligations of the MOU. Mr. Li Yong Bo, Global Roaming and Mobility Business Centre Vice President, CTG, said: "We're looking forward to building upon the existing cooperation framework between CTG and stc group that includes corresponding mutual affiliates to explore joint IoT opportunities in Saudi Arabia. Our agreement aligns with the kingdom's Vision 2030 plan to accelerate the innovation of connected cars in the region. Both groups will work towards building benefits and advancing transportation for the nation and its people." Eng. Saud AlSheraihi, Products & Solutions Vice President, stc, said: "We are thrilled to announce our partnership with China Telecom as a significant step towards achieving our strategic goals for the IoT industry, particularly in the realm of connected car projects in KSA. By signing this MOU, we are confident that stc group and CTG will continue to work together to accelerate our digital developments and ensure that we meet our objectives" stc group and CTG, will collectively be operating to ensure their IoT business is successful. IoT services in KSA and the region will be scaled up through different technologies and digital solutions supported by the combined knowledge of all three parties, especially for the connected cars project. There will be additional IoT prospects in the pipeline that will upgrade the lifestyle in the Kingdom and stc group with China Telecom as the lead in these developments. Establishing the partnership strengthens the corporate foundations between the stc group and CTG in the arena of IoT, especially through the provision of solid practical experience and industry knowledge that builds a competitive edge. In the future, both parties will explore endless innovations and share the fruits of technological breakthroughs with the wider community. About China Telecom Global China Telecom Corporation Limited ("China Telecom"), one of the world's largest providers of integrated telecommunication services, has unwaveringly strived to enhance its capabilities in maintaining its global footprints while addressing changing demands. In 2000, China Telecom established its first overseas office. In order to further enhance its global service quality and accelerate overseas business expansion, China Telecom established China Telecom Global Limited in 2012, which is headquartered in Hong Kong, China. China Telecom has not only established its presence in 41 countries and regions, but also now offers services around the world to help global customers accelerate their business transformation journeys. Leveraging its vast network resources of 50 submarine cables with 117T in intercontinental capacity and 229 Points-of-Presence (PoPs) around the world, China Telecom offers a high-performing global network for international carriers, multinational enterprises, and overseas Chinese customers. On the fast track of corporate digital transformation across the globe, China Telecom Global is dedicated to delivering a wide portfolio of high-quality and integrated communications solutions for international operators, multinational enterprises, and overseas Chinese customers. Through the comprehensive enhancement of DICT technology, "Cloud-Network Integration" strategy and operational security, we can support industries to better navigate their journey of digital transformation and explore new opportunities in the digital economy. With an agile and forward-looking spirit, innovative products and business models, and industry-leading technologies, China Telecom is dedicated to creating value for its customers in their business transformation, enabling them to achieve business growth, enhance global footprints, and maintain competitive edges by digitalisation. About stc Group stc is a pioneer digital champion, always focused on innovation and the evolution of digital solutions to enrich the customer's experience and enhance their digital experience. stc offers various ICT solutions and digital services in different categories, taking the lead in digital transformation nationally and regionally. stc focuses on implementing initiatives along with seizing current and future opportunities to promote sustainability, innovation and people empowerment For more information, please visit https://www.stc.com.sa; or to follow us on Twitter: @stc, Instagram: @stc_ksa SOURCE China Telecom Global FRANKLIN, Tenn., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- EnableComp announced today that Christa Miller has joined the company as the new Chief Financial Officer. Miller brings extensive experience in healthcare and finance to the organization including her most recent role as Chief Financial Officer at Norstella, a prominent international pharma solutions provider focused on improving patient access to life-saving therapies. Over the course of her career, she also served as CFO for CapTrust, Jones & Frank, and Ali Group North America. Miller will succeed Terry Pefanis as EnableComp's CFO. Christa Miller - CFO, EnableComp "Christa's leadership experience and strategic financial and operational knowledge will allow us to continue delivering excellence to both our customers and in achieving our company objectives," said Randy Dobbs, CEO at EnableComp. "Her understanding of the opportunities and challenges in the market will be vital to our organizational expansion as we continue on the path towards exceptional growth." "I am excited to join EnableComp, a best-in-class complex claims company with a unique technology and a client-first culture focused on operational excellence and financial health," said Christa Miller. "I look forward to supporting the EnableComp team in delivering exceptional support to our clients." Miller graduated from Wake Forest University with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and currently resides in Raleigh, North Carolina. About EnableComp EnableComp partners with over 1000 healthcare providers to manage Veterans Administration, Workers' Compensation, Motor Vehicle Accident/TPL, Out of State Medicaid and Denials. Related services cover day 1 outsourcing, A/R management, and zero balance recovery. They also offer solutions for commercial and government denials. Clients are positioned to ensure maximum and timely reimbursement of their complex claims while improving overall yield, cash acceleration, and decreasing the cost to collect. They are also among the top one percent of companies to make the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States for the last nine years. To learn more, visit: enablecomp.com. About Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe WCAS is a leading U.S. private equity firm focused on two target industries: technology and healthcare. Since its founding in 1979, the firm's strategy has been to partner with outstanding management teams and build value for its investors through a combination of operational improvements, growth initiatives and strategic acquisitions. The firm has raised and managed funds totaling over $27 billion of committed capital. For more information, please visit wcas.com. Contact: Ally Conner [email protected] SOURCE EnableComp LLC THUNDER BAY, ON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Clean Air Metals Inc. ("Clean Air Metals" or the "Company") (TSXV: AIR) (FRA: CKU) (OTCQB: CLRMF) announces that it has filed its audited consolidated financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for the year ended January 31, 2023, available for viewing on www.sedar.com . Financial Highlights Total assets as at January 31, 2023 of $42,290,356 of Total cash as at January 31, 2023 of $6,871,401 of Working capital as at January 31, 2023 of $11,684,677 of Shareholder's equity as at January 31, 2023 of $38,864,372 During the fiscal year ended January 31, 2023 as previously reported, the Company: Closed the first tranche in the amount of $10 million of a $15 million non-dilutive mineral royalty financing agreement effective Dec. 16, 2022 , with Triple Flag Precious Metals Corp. The Triple Flag royalty agreement features a 2.5-per-cent net smelter returns (NSR) mining royalty for all mineral product produced on the Thunder Bay North critical minerals (platinum, palladium, copper and nickel) project in Northern Ontario, Canada , temporarily excepting the Escape claims. Subsequent to January 31, 2023 , the Company received the second tranche of $5 million and added the Triple Flag royalty to the Escape claims. of a non-dilutive mineral royalty financing agreement effective , with Triple Flag Precious Metals Corp. The Triple Flag royalty agreement features a 2.5-per-cent net smelter returns (NSR) mining royalty for all mineral product produced on the Thunder Bay North critical minerals (platinum, palladium, copper and nickel) project in , temporarily excepting the Escape claims. Subsequent to , the Company received the second tranche of million and added the Triple Flag royalty to the Escape claims. Completed 2022 diamond drilling, including 17625 m on the Escape and 7068 m on the Current Critical Metal Deposits in November, 2022. on the Current Critical Metal Deposits in November, 2022. Signed an Exploration Agreement with its First Nation Partners, the Fort William First Nation, the Red Rock Indian Band and the Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek for the Thunder Bay North Project in April, 2022. Announced the closing of a $12.5 million equity and flow through private placement on strong institutional support, including Michael Gentile , CFA, in February, 2022. Financial Summary For the year ended January 31, 2023 January 31, 2022 Operating Expenses $ 5,565,889 $ 3,405,191 Net Loss and Comprehensive Loss (4,816,873) (2,170,832) Loss per share Basic and Diluted $ (0.02) $ (0.02) Total Assets $ 42,290,356 $ 35,059,465 Total Liabilities 3,425,984 4,027,436 Total Shareholders' Equity $ 38,864,372 $ 31,032,029 Full details of the financial reports and operating results for the year ended January 31, 2023 are described in the Company's audited consolidated financial statements with accompanying notes and related Management's Discussion and Analysis, available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. CEO Statement Abraham Drost, CEO stated, "We are pleased that due to the participation of Triple Flag Precious Metals in a royalty financing completed in December 2022, the Company was able to minimize share dilution and remains in a sound financial position. We expect that cash on hand is sufficient to fund the Company's activities well into 2024." Grant of Incentive Stock Options The Company also announces that it has granted an aggregate of 2,032,728 incentive stock options (the "Stock Options"), subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. The Stock Options are being granted as long-term incentive awards with an exercise price of $0.08 for a period of 5 years and subject to vesting terms. Qualified Person Dr. Geoff Heggie, Ph.D., P.Geo., a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 and Vice President - Exploration for the Company, has reviewed and approved all technical information in this press release. Social Engagement Clean Air Metals Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary Panoramic PGMs (Canada) Ltd. acknowledge that the Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project is on the traditional territories of the Fort William First Nation, Red Rock Indian Band and Biinjitiwabik Zaaging Anishinabek. The parties together are the Cooperating Participants in a Memorandum of Agreement dated January 9, 2021 (press release January 11, 2021) and Exploration Agreement signed April 13, 2022 (press release April 14, 2022). The Company appreciates the opportunity to work in these territories and remains committed to the recognition and respect of those who have lived, traveled, and gathered on the lands since time immemorial. Clean Air Metals is committed to stewarding Indigenous heritage and remains committed to building, fostering and encouraging a respectful relationship with First Nations and Metis peoples based upon principles of mutual trust, respect, reciprocity and collaboration in the spirit of reconciliation. About Clean Air Metals Inc. Clean Air Metals' flagship asset is the 100% owned, high grade Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project, a platinum, palladium, copper, nickel project located near the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario and the Lac des Iles Mine owned by Impala Platinum. The Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project hosts the twin magma conduit bodies which host the Current and Escape deposits forming the basis for the new mineral resource estimate subsequently reported on May 4, 2023. Executive Chair Jim Gallagher, P.Eng. and COO Mike Garbutt, P.Eng., lead an experienced technical team studying the economics of a sustainable mining operation at Thunder Bay North. As the former CEO of North American Palladium Ltd. which owned the Lac des Iles Mine prior to the sale to Impala Platinum in December 2019, Jim Gallagher and team are credited with the mine turnaround and creation of significant value for shareholders. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS "Abraham Drost" Abraham Drost, Chief Executive Officer of Clean Air Metals Inc. 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. Cautionary Note 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: political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price 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. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements 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. SOURCE Clean Air Metals Inc. SHENZHEN, China, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cloudsky Technologies is pleased to announce that it has recently secured a Series C+ round funding of no less than ten million dollars. The primary investors include a leading XR company, Sichuan Guohe International Cooperation Fund, and Orinno Capital, among others. Cloudsky Technologies is dedicated to becoming the next-generation computing infrastructure and services provider to empower the digital economy. The company possesses a globally innovative GPU server computing architecture. Through customized optimization of the full technology stack, it has achieved groundbreaking compatibility between PC and mobile content ecosystems based on the X86 architecture. This enables it to meet the on-demand computing power requirements of various applications such as image rendering, AIGC, and autonomous driving. The company provides customers with cost-effective, highly compatible, and reliable end-to-end computing solutions. Additionally, the company focuses on building computing centers through a "cloud-edge-end" integration solution, driving the continuous expansion of computing network nodes and addressing the last-mile latency issue in computing transmission for application implementation. With its robust computing network and strong technical capabilities, Cloudsky Technologies has established a leading position in commercial-scale applications such as cloud rendering, cloud gaming, metaverse, cloud workstations, and cloud VR/AR. The company is also actively exploring areas such as AIGC and autonomous driving, promoting the synergistic development of its "GaaS+AIaaS" dual business. Currently, the company has formed significant partnerships with numerous telecommunications operators, cloud providers, leading internet companies, and game developers, among others, enabling the construction of the infrastructure for a future digital world where computing power is ubiquitous and intelligence knows no bounds. Mei Su, CEO of Asia-America Group and the manager of Sichuan Guohe International Cooperation Fund, stated, "In the digital era, high-end computing power has extensive potential applications and represents a vast incremental market. Cloudsky Technologies has already achieved a leading position in GPU cloud computing domestically and is actively expanding its overseas market. Asia-America Group will leverage its profound international resources to accelerate the development of the company's overseas business. In the future, with continuous investments and deep insights into the high-end computing industry chain, Sichuan Development Holding Co., Orinno Capital, Asia-America Group, and Cloudsky Technologies will stimulate more innovation together and create value for society." Earnest Partners, an early-stage investor in Cloudsky Technologies, also expressed their support, saying, "We have maintained close contact with Cloudsky Technologies over the past few years and provided the support they needed during their development. We are delighted to see their current achievements, and we will continue to assist them in technology research and development, as well as the internationalization of their business, as we move forward together." Cloud gaming, cloud esports, metaverse, smart cities, virtual reality, AIGC, and autonomous driving are experiencing rapid growth in real-time decision-making and quick response digital scenarios. The demand for advanced computing power, with graphics computing and AI at its core, is growing exponentially. It is projected to reach a compound annual growth rate of 52.3% over the next five years, with the entire computing scale reaching 1271.4 EFLOPS by 2026. With its strong technical capabilities, robust computing network, and extensive deployment experience in the computing field, Cloudsky Technologies is well-positioned to lead the global computing industry. Following this funding round, the company will leverage its strengths to drive industry development, enabling computing power to serve users as efficiently as "water and electricity" and continuing its pursuit of global leadership in the computing industry. Media Contact: [email protected] SOURCE Cloudsky Located in Ohio, the mine is the first site co-operated by Compass Mining's operations team in assistance with Arthur Mining. DENVER, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Compass Mining, the world's first and largest online marketplace for bitcoin mining hardware and hosting, today announced the energization of its newest site, Ohio 2, in a new hosting deal with Arthur Mining. Compass Mining was the first to open the doors to retail exposure in Bitcoin mining through its direct purchase and hosting packages. Compass Mining's newest site pairs industry leading hosting provider Arthur Mining with Compass Mining's own operations team in order to deliver high machine uptime and facility performance. "We are very excited to work with Compass on this new expansion project. It's a great opportunity to exchange resources and knowledge together for the benefit of the end miner," Arthur Mining President Ruda Pellini said in a statement. "We are pleased to work with Arthur Mining, one of the Bitcoin mining industry's best emerging hosting providers," Thomas Heller, co-CEO and Chief Mining Officer at Compass Mining said in a statement. "The site's size, location and management are the profile of hosting provider Compass seeks to offer its clients." At 20 megawatts in size, Ohio 2 the site is fueled by a grid mix of hydro and natural gas power. Machines are hosted in industry leading RK Mission Critical 'Disruptor 2000' containers, the standard for containerized hosting management. The site will be the first co-operated by the Compass Mining facility and operations team directly. About Compass Mining Compass Mining is a bitcoin-first, proof-of-work mining company on a mission to strengthen Bitcoin's network by democratizing hash rate. Compass' mining marketplace offers easy procurement and deployment of mining machines for institutional and retail clients. Compass Mining also produces industry-leading research and educational content through a variety of tailored media product offerings. Mining is a notoriously opaque sector of the Bitcoin industry, but Compass now serves as the guide for everyone's path to successfully mining bitcoin. Thanks to Compass, now everyone can mine bitcoin. For more information on Compass Mining, visit https://compassmining.io/ About Arthur Mining Arthur deploys, operates, and manages mobile Data Centers for High Processing Computing, such as Bitcoin Mining. The company works closely with institutional players and the energy sector offering its services to help optimize their stranded energyfocusing on wasted and non-monetized venues in the USA and Brazil. SOURCE Compass Mining LONDON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Corinthia has signed a hotel management agreement to operate a luxury resort in the Maldives in 2025. The developer of the luxury resort to be operated by Corinthia is Maarah Pvt Ltd, a Maldivian entity, affiliated with Maarah Holdings Ltd, a United Arab Emirates company registered within the Dubai International Financial Centre, being part of Niro Investment Group, one of the most prestigious investment companies in Romania, which is further strengthening its international operations, both in the Middle East and South Asia. Corinthia Maldives Corinthia Maldives Corinthia Maldives Corinthia Maldives Early works on reclamation and the first phase of the development of the resort located on the Kaafu Atoll have commenced and will feature two islands hosting a 73-key resort on the larger of the two and a second, smaller private island for exclusive use. Corinthia Maldives will feature aquatic-inspired architecture designed by global firm HKS. The main pavilion and all villas are taking on forms and shapes that take inspiration from the gentle curves of the ocean's Manta Ray. The resort will also include state of the art wellness facilities, multiple fitness spaces and a choice of five restaurants operated with internationally renowned brands. "We are thrilled to announce the arrival of Corinthia in the Maldives. Together with our partners, the developers, we will work to create a unique architectural statement that will delight the senses." commented Mr. Simon Naudi, CEO of Corinthia Hotels. "We are excited about this milestone Maldivian luxury resort development, which is located only 15 minutes from Male International Airport and which will provide long-term local employment opportunities whilst contributing towards the growing destination tourism economy of the Maldives." stated Mr. Rene Beil, Managing Director, Maarah Holdings and Maarah Pvt Ltd "We are fortunate of our thirty years' legacy of real estate investments and developments of pioneering nature and we are privileged to be partners with a leading luxury hospitality brand such as Corinthia". Other than HKS as lead architects, several contractors and engineering firms have been engaged on the project. These include RLB Hoolooman as Project Managers, having already completed 14 resorts within Maldives, working alongside Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTTC) which has been appointed as the main contractor for land reclamation and shore protection works. China State Construction has been appointed as the General Contractor while Beaufort Global a leading and reputable hospitality asset management firm based in Dubai UAE has been appointed as Asset Manager. ABOUT CORINTHIA HOTELS Corinthia is a growing family of luxury hotels, founded in Malta in 1962 by the Pisani family. The company has grown over the years into a multinational investor, developer and operator of hotels and real estate. Its portfolio includes award-winning hotels in cities such as London, Budapest, Lisbon, St. Petersburg, and the Island of Malta. Current developments underway in various stages of design and construction include landmark, trophy hotels in Rome, New York, Brussels, Bucharest, Doha, Riyadh, and new resorts in the Maldives and Malta. More information at corinthia.com. ABOUT NIRO GROUP Niro Investment Group has 30 years of experience in the field of investment, development and asset management, carrying out projects in various areas of interest, the most important being retail, real estate, hospitality, insurance, industry, construction and medical services. The three decades of investment and development mean total investments of over 650 million euros, over 500,000 square meters built and social programs worth over 25 million euros. In recent years, Niro Investment Group focused on the hospitality industry, developing several large-scale projects that will bring for the first time to Romania luxury hotel brands such as Corinthia, which will place Romania on the map of international luxury tourism, with the first Romanian hotel project developed abroad, in the Maldives. https://nirogroup.ro/en/home/. CONTACT: [email protected] SOURCE Corinthia Hotels COPPELL, Texas, May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Costar Technologies, Inc. (the "Company") (OTC Markets Group: CSTI) announced today the results of the Company's 2023 Special Meeting of Stockholders that was held on May 30, 2023. The results have been certified by Computershare, Inc., the Company's transfer agent. A representative of Computershare, Inc. attended the meeting and acted as the Inspector of Elections and Stockholder Votes. The certified results confirm the adoption and approval of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of March 23, 2023, as it may be amended from time to time, which we refer to as the "merger agreement," by and among Costar Technologies, Inc. and IDIS Co., Ltd. The merger is expected to close during the second quarter of 2023, subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions to closing. The certified results were as follows: Eligible Votes 1,649,165 Voted Total 1,135,179 Voted Total % 68.83 % Proposal 1: Adoption and approval of the merger agreement Votes Voted % Outstanding % For 1,060,621 93.43 % 64.31 % Against 74,534 6.57 % 4.52 % Abstain 24 0.00 % 0.00 % About Costar Technologies, Inc. Costar Technologies, Inc. develops, designs, manufactures, and distributes a range of security solution products including surveillance cameras, lenses, digital video recorders and high-speed domes. The Company also develops, designs, and distributes industrial vision products to observe repetitive production and assembly lines, thereby increasing efficiency by detecting faults in the production process. Headquartered in Coppell, Texas, the Company's shares currently trade on the OTC Markets Group under the ticker symbol "CSTI". Costar was ranked as the 40th largest company in a&s magazine's Security 50 for 2020. Security 50 is an annual ranking by the magazine of the world's largest security manufacturers in the areas of video surveillance, access control and intruder alarms, based on sales revenue. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements This press release contains forwardlooking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Investors are cautioned that statements in this press release which are not strictly historical statements including, without limitation, express or implied statements or guidance regarding the expected timing of the closing of the acquisition, and other statements identified by words like "believe," "expect," "may," "will," "should," "seek," or "could" and similar expressions, constitute forwardlooking statements. Such forwardlooking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated, including, without limitation, risks associated with: the risk that the proposed acquisition may not be completed in a timely manner, or at all; and the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the acquisition. Actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by these forwardlooking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forwardlooking statements. These forwardlooking statements reflect management's current views and are based only on information currently available to us. The parties do not undertake to update, whether written or oral, any of these forwardlooking statements to reflect a change in its views or events or circumstances, whether as a result of new information or otherwise, that occur after the date hereof except as required by law. SOURCE Costar Technologies, Inc. TUSTIN, Calif., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SYSPRO, a global provider of industry-built enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, announced today that CRN , a brand of The Channel Company , has named Michelle Hughes, PartnerUP Program Manager, and Megan Kirby, Strategic Partner 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. CRNs 2023 Women of the Channel Honors Michelle Hughes and Megan Kirby of SYSPRO 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. Michelle Hughes is an ERP industry veteran with nearly three decades of experience in manufacturing and distribution software. As PartnerUP Program Manager, Michelle co-led the creation and execution of an upskilling program through the partner portal for partner certification and product education. As the Strategic Partner Manager at SYSPRO US, Megan Kirby is responsible for cultivating and maintaining relationships with strategic channel partners while also focusing around ensuring partners have the ability and knowledge to profitably grow their business with SYSPRO. In this role, Megan engages with partner executives to develop short and long-term strategic objectives and creates programs, such as the SYSPRO Channel UPlift Program, to drive strategic necessities through execution. She has been responsible for defining and driving the go-to-market strategy for every partner in the SYSPRO community and measuring results. "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." "Megan and Michelle are a vital part of our channel organization, exemplifying the channel business acumen, integrity and results-driven mindset that made 2022 a truly remarkable year for SYSPRO and our partners," said Lou Sassano, VP, Channel at SYSPRO USA. "Our partners often say that both Michelle and Megan feel like a part of their own team. This recognition for them is well deserved and I look forward to another record year of working collaboratively with our partners and customers to ensure continued success." 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 SYSPRO SYSPRO is a leading, global Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software provider specializing in key manufacturing and distribution industries. For over 40 years, SYSPRO's team of specialists have continued to address unique industry needs and enable customers to easily adapt and grow. The solution is scalable and can be deployed in the cloud, on-premise, or both, and accessed via the web on any device to provide customers with choice and flexibility. SYSPRO remains focused on the success of partners and customers. Our evolving solutions are aligned with industry trends to leverage emerging technology that will enable partners and customers in securing a digital future. With more than 15,000 licensed companies in over 60 countries across six continents SYSPRO offers guidance and support every step of the way as a trusted advisor. For more information, visit www.syspro.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 SYSPRO USA TORONTO, May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Cybeats Technologies Corp. ("Cybeats'' or the "Company") (CSE: CYBT) (OTCQB: CYBCF) is pleased to announce a trial license agreement for SBOM Studio1 with a Top-5 global medical device company, marking its 3rd engagement from the Medical Device Manufacturing ("MDM") Global Top-10. "The interest from yet another global leader from the medical device space highlights the increasing demand for SBOM management solutions like SBOM Studio, and is a testament to the value and efficacy of our product. Not only do we provide solutions for cybersecurity risk management, but also for compliance with newly mandated FDA requirements for SBOMs that ensure a smoother market entry for products," said Yoav Raiter, CEO, Cybeats. Cybeats SBOM Studio delivers comprehensive software supply chain intelligence technology, empowering organizations to effectively manage Software Bill of Materials ("SBOM") and proactively addresses cyber risks in their medical device projects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's ("FDA") new authority emphasizes the significance of SBOM management solutions like SBOM Studio. This recent contract, along with several recent wins from the medical device sector underscores the Company's growing expertise in the healthcare security industry vertical, and increasing demand for SBOM solutions. During its first 12 months of commercial operations, the Company has signed SBOM Studio license agreements across all of its target market verticals: Industrial Control Systems (ICS), Medical Device Manufacturers (MDM), Data Management, and Automotive sectors. Recently Announced Commercial Highlights 75% of all organizations that have completed SBOM Studio pilot evaluation periods have moved on to sign commercial license agreements 2 that have completed pilot evaluation periods have moved on to sign commercial license agreements Trial engagements or signed license agreements with three top-10 global medical device manufacturing organizations 3 medical device manufacturing organizations 86.5% growth in SBOM Studio 'seats' under license contract since November 2022 in 'seats' under license contract since Several Fortune 500 clients, including three clients from the 'big-7' industrial controls and automation sector FDA & Medical Device Manufacturers The FDA's role in regulating medical device cybersecurity has significantly increased due to its authority to approve or reject premarket submissions based on compliance with section 524B of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act ("FD&C Act"). This section mandates that Medical Device Manufacturers ("MDM") provide a SBOM for their devices' commercial, open-source, and off-the-shelf software components. The ability to institute an RTA decision emphasizes the FDA's dedication to medical device cybersecurity and the importance of SBOMs for a transparent and accountable software supply chain. Cybeats, already serving one of the largest global MDMs, is in trial evaluations and late-stage contract negotiations with several other leading MDMs worldwide. The Consolidated Appropriations Act ("Omnibus"), signed into law in late 2022, amended the FD&C Act's section 524B, titled 'Ensuring Cybersecurity of Medical Devices.' This requires MDMs to disclose a comprehensive list of software components used in their devices, including third-party and open-source elements, and address postmarket vulnerabilities with patches. To proactively manage cybersecurity risks, MDMs must maintain an accurate inventory of device components, develop vulnerability management and risk assessment processes, provide device patches, and maintain device change records. The urgent need for managing vast amounts of SBOM data has created a large and growing addressable market for solutions like SBOM Studio. About Cybeats Cybeats is a cybersecurity company providing SBOM management and software supply chain intelligence technology, helping organizations to manage risk, meet compliance requirements, and secure their software from procurement to development and operation. Our platform gives customers comprehensive visibility and transparency into their software supply chain, enabling them to improve operational efficiency and increase revenue. Cybeats. Software Made Certain. Website: https://cybeats.com SUBSCRIBE: For more information, or to subscribe to the Company's mail list, visit: https://www.cybeats.com/investors Forward-looking Information Cautionary Statement Except for statements of historic fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the CSE. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the commercialization plans for the products described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Company filings are available at sedar.com. SOURCE Cybeats Technologies Corp. TSX.V: DME U.S. OTC: DMEHF Frankfurt: QM01 VANCOUVER, BC, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY CORP. (the "Company") (TSXV: DME) (U.S. OTC: DMEHF) (Frankfurt: QM01) From the President of the Company. The Company wishes to apprise shareholders that it has continued to complete planned work as previously outlined, per the use of proceeds from the last financing. "The Company is in an excellent financial position," said Robert Rohlfing, CEO of DME. "There is approximately $19.7 CDN million cash on hand with significant percentages tied up in various guaranteed interest-bearing accounts." The wells feeding the McCauley Helium Processing Facility were swabbed down with no formation water being detected. The water removed showed signs that it was from drilling and completion operations and not from the targeted formations. A full-size, helium gas tube trailer is on-site for production rather than the smaller tanks for run-up testing. As previously outlined in the use of proceeds, the Company has acquired additional heavy trucks and additional trailers. Trailers to haul the Company's produced raw crude gases are being modified to haul crude gas from our other wells to the McCauley Helium Processing Facility. The Company expects to take delivery of a workover rig, capable of swabbing and light workover functions, by the end of June 2023. These specific vehicles were selected to help optimize and reduce the wait time to accomplish specific tasks. Our trucking company continues to improve usage performance. The signing of a long-term agreement to haul heavy gas field compression units for a major company in the four corners region and Colorado is significant. Our hydrogen drilling partner was encountering market conditions slowing their financing down. The Company had already planned for a possible contingency and will be drilling two wildcat wells, specifically targeting helium, starting towards the end of June 2023 to the middle of July 2023. One well will be drilled on the south Winslow Prospect and the other well will be on the O'Haco leases. Both wells are located within approximately ten miles of the McCauley Helium Processing Facility. Depending on the outcome of those drilling efforts, initial production will be trucked to the McCauley Helium Processing Facility. DME anticipates drilling the shallow hydrogen/helium wells towards the end of August 2023. The Company has continued to go forth with multiple archeological studies required for drilling and production on our state leases. This extensive work and separate permitting are required, prior to requesting actual drilling permits, from the State of Arizona Oil & Gas Conservation Commission. We are also engaged in geophysical studies across NE Arizona and other states. Those activities are in conjunction with private oil & gas companies currently drilling. The Company is not engaged or in partnership with those companies in drilling wells for hydrocarbon production. The Company expends very small monies to have independent geologists with mass spectrometers on location during drilling operations. Thus far our efforts have found the presence of helium in areas previously untested for both helium and hydrogen. Looking at the entire spectrum of elements is an established practice by the Company and provides our geological team with the maximum data by which to make decisions. The Company has identified and ordered the longest lead time components for two processing facilities. The next processing facility is planned to have liquefication capabilities in order to process the noble gases in addition to being able to sell liquified helium to meet specific customers needs. ABOUT DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY Desert Mountain Energy Corp. is a publicly traded resource company primarily focused on exploration, development and production of helium, hydrogen and noble gases. The Company is primarily looking for elements deemed critical to the renewable energy and high technology industries. We seek safe harbor "Robert Rohlfing" Robert Rohlfing Exec Chairman & CEO Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in polices of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The statements made in this press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual events or results may differ from the Company's expectations. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward looking statements and information herein include but are not limited to statements regarding the Company's anticipated performance in the future the planned exploration activities, receipt of positive results from drilling, the completion of further drilling and exploration work, and the timing and results of various activities. Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company and its operations to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include, among others, changes in national and local governments, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and the United States; financial risks due to helium prices, operating or technical difficulties in exploration and development activities; risks and hazards and the speculative nature of resource exploration and related development; risks in obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and challenges to the Company's title to properties. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the continued operation of the Company's exploration operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company does not intend to, and nor does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking statements or information, other than as required by applicable law. SOURCE Desert Mountain Energy Corp. Chris Christie, the former New Jersey governor and variously pro- and anti-Trump Republican, is readying his bid for the GOP nomination in 2024. Axios summarizes his plan:` Being joyful and hitting a more hopeful note aimed at America's "exhausted majority." Being authentic a happy warrior who speaks his mind, takes risks and is happy to punch Donald Trump in the nose. Christie's recent interviews and New Hampshire town halls aim to recapture the brio of his 2009 governor's race. Running a national race "a non-traditional campaign that is highly focused on earned media, mixing it up in the news cycle and engaging Trump," an adviser said. "Will not be geographic dependent, but nimble." Ah yes, the national appeal of Chris Christie's joyful authenticity. That'll do it. LA MIRADA, Calif., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Biola University will name its top-ranked film school the Snyder School of Cinema and Media Arts in tribute to Esther L. Snyder, co-founder of In-N-Out Burger, in honor of a significant financial gift committed to the school and their family's legacy. The gift, the largest in Biola's history, will support a new film school studio and In-N-Out Burger Scholar's Fund. Tweet this Biola University's Snyder School of Cinema and Media Arts will break ground on its 52,100 square-foot studio facility in October 2023. "This naming of the Snyder School and the inspirational vision of Mrs. Esther Snyder will be a testimony to students and alumni for generations that humility in leadership, Christlike love of others, entrepreneurial tenacity and upright business principles are virtues worth living," said Biola President Barry H. Corey. The gift, which is the largest in the school's 115-year history, will allow for Biola to break ground on a new 52,100 square-foot film school studio facility and establish a new scholarship the In-N-Out Burger Scholars Fund. This expendable scholarship will help make it possible for foster and at-risk youth to study film in the Snyder School. "We talk a lot about being more than just a film school. We're not only committed to equipping students with the professional skills required by the industry, but we also prioritize excellence in character," said Founding Dean and industry veteran Tom Halleen. The $92 million state-of-the-art studio will add to Biola's existing production facilities, including a third soundstage along with additional edit suites, production offices, motion capture, Foley and scoring stages, mixing rooms, color correction lab, classrooms, faculty and staff offices and a full theater for screenings as well as to host industry lectures, forums and other live events. "Our family values the distinctly Christian education Biola University offers and are honored to play a part in continuing to offer students opportunities to make really impactful film pieces that change people's lives," said Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson, granddaughter of Esther L. Snyder and owner and president of In-N-Out Burger. "God is a huge part of the In-N-Out story, and I have no doubt my grandmother would be grateful to know her name is associated with a school recognized for excellence in craft and character." Biola plans to break ground and begin construction on the building project in October 2023, aligning with In-N-Out's 75th anniversary. Biola's School of Cinema & Media Arts became a school in 2018, though the program dates back decades. It has been ranked as one of the top film schools in the nation by multiple industry-leading sources, including for the past six years by Variety , and also by The Wrap and MovieMaker Magazine . SOURCE Biola University Software-driven innovation will be an enabler for the radical transformation needed to create a climate-secure future LONDON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC), a leading Fortune 500 global technology services company, has forecast five ways software will help create a more sustainable future in the next five years. DXC Technology Predicts Five Ways Software Will Accelerate Sustainability in the Next Five Years (credit Adobe Stock) (CNW Group/DXC Technology Company) "Technology has an outsized role in almost every aspect of sustainability from increasing productivity, efficiency, and cost savings, to monitoring and modelling progress," said Henrik Hvid Jensen, Chief Technology Strategist, DXC. "As a global IT services leader, DXC sees a number of pivotal ways that technology will help us to drive sustainable development in the next five years." 1. Organizations will adopt circular economy business models Globally, natural resources are dwindling and their increased exploitation to cater for global demand is having a negative impact on the environment. To build a competitive global circular economy that produces no waste, companies must adapt their business models to maximize resource efficiency, develop recyclable products, and repurpose waste as new offerings. One of the biggest challenges of moving to a circular economy is collecting and sharing data about a product throughout its entire lifecycle. Digital product passports (DPPs) offer that capability and promise to act as a transparent record of a product's sustainability, environmental and recyclability attributes. The European Union is positioning itself as a first mover in the space and expects most products in the region to be covered by DPP regulation by 2030. 2. AI will help manage natural resources AI will become increasingly important for tackling most environmental sustainability issues including biodiversity, energy, transportation, and the management of agroecosystems. In the agriculture sector, AI can produce insight and increase automation to improve environmental stewardship and detect diseases and potential infestations before crops or livestock are threatened. Technology not only impacts individual farms' output, but data generates valuable insights that can positively influence policy decisions at the local or national level. For example, DXC is partnering with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA) in Spain to transform the Spanish agricultural sector through data analytics and AI. One project uses AI algorithms to accurately predict forest fires by evaluating environmental data sources collected by MAPA and its partners. Elsewhere, AI helps farmers makes more informed decisions about what crops to plant and where. 3. AI will increase the viability of renewable energy McKinsey estimates that by 2026, global renewable-electricity capacity will rise more than 80 percent from 2020 levels. For example, Europe will add approximately 36 million renewable-class assets, such as solar panels, electric vehicles (EVs), and energy storage, to the grid in 2025, and 89 million by 2030. Automation and data analytics can help manage decentralized energy sources, direct excess electricity and flag potential grid weak points before they become significant issues, and help utilities redirect power to where it's needed in real time. 4. There will be a major shift to software-defined EVs in the next decade The automotive industry accounts for nearly a quarter of global greenhouse emissions and is a major cause of city air pollution. To address this, regulators in the U.S., Europe and elsewhere are reviewing policy and implementing laws to limit the sale of new gas and diesel cars. As a result, eighteen of the world's largest automakers have switched or pledged to switch, either completely or significantly, to EV manufacturing in the coming years. EVs will be software-defined vehicles (SDVs) with automated capabilities to manage the car more efficiently with particular attention to environmental sensitivities. SDVs feature smart routing and energy optimization that can mitigate issues related to charging capacity and range. 5. Finance systems will be re-engineered to consume less energy Transitioning to more environmentally sustainable operations is a top priority for banks and financial services organizations. More sustainable software, more efficient algorithms and better data processing are key to these efforts. The global green finance market has thus grown from $5.2 billion in 2012 to more than $540 billion in 2021. In addition to growing environmentally conscious portfolios, the financial services sector is significantly reducing its energy consumption by enabling efficiencies in data centers. Upgrades include data deduplications and compression which can improve data storage layout and storage efficiency while slashing energy usage. Beyond the traditional financial sector, new approaches are helping to increase the sustainability of the cryptocurrency-mining process. "We can all look forward to the day when sustainability is the new standard and software will be at the heart of helping us create a climate-secure and competitive future," added Henrik Hvid Jensen, Chief Technology Strategist, DXC. For more information, read the article: Five Ways Software Will Boost Sustainability in the Next Five Years. About DXC Technology DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC) helps global companies run their mission-critical systems and operations while modernizing IT, optimizing data architectures, and ensuring security and scalability across public, private and hybrid clouds. The world's largest companies and public sector organizations trust DXC to deploy services to drive new levels of performance, competitiveness, and customer experience across their IT estates. Learn more about how we deliver excellence for our customers and colleagues at DXC.com. SOURCE DXC Technology Company Farmer-to-farmer humanitarian effort unites industry partners worldwide to raise funds and support the farmers of Ukraine MINNEAPOLIS, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- EarthDaily Agro, a division of geospatial analytics provider EarthDaily Analytics Corporation, announced today their support for Farmerhood, a global charitable collective comprised of leading agricultural companies to provide humanitarian relief to Ukrainian farmers amidst the ongoing disruptions to their livelihoods caused by Russian military aggression. EarthDaily Agro, a division of geospatial analytics provider EarthDaily Analytics Corporation, announced today their support for Farmerhood, a global charitable collective comprised of leading agricultural companies to provide humanitarian relief to Ukrainian farmers amidst the ongoing disruptions to their livelihoods caused by Russian military aggression. "It's impossible to overstate the impact of the war in Ukraine," said Dave Gebhardt, General Manager of EarthDaily Agro. "Ukrainian farmers, who are struggling to stay afloat through Russia's invasion, are a powerful example of the continued impact this ongoing crisis is creating. The need for support is pressing, and in response, EarthDaily Agro has mobilized a group of leading agriculture partners, all united in standing with Ukraine." Through the program, Ukrainian farmers with up to 1,200 acres (500 hectares) located in regions impacted by war are eligible to receive sustaining services to support their critical work as they grapple with the challenges of hostile military invasion. Funds raised through the program provide support to Ukrainian farmers across five key focus areas: Agricultural inputs such as seeds and crop protection Precision farming services that support the efficient use of limited resources Fuel to enable field operations Restoration to help repair facilities and machinery Financial support to cover additional needs such as rent, salaries and taxes EarthDaily Agro's contributions to Farmerhood include best-in-class analytics services to help Ukrainian farmers monitor crop health, use resources efficiently and detect early warning signs of negative environmental trends ultimately helping the farmers of Ukraine maximize their yields to keep their operations afloat and support food security both in their own communities and across the world at-large. "Around the world, a shared camaraderie exists between farmers," Gebhardt said. "Farming is one of the most challenging careers a person can choose, and that creates a bond that can't be broken no matter where you live. As an individual who grew up on a family farm myself, I am immensely proud to support our farming brothers and sisters in Ukraine through Farmerhood." In addition to EarthDaily Agro, Farmerhood's Coalition Partners include Syngenta, Feodal, Kernel, Dar Foundation, Alight and Land O'Lakes. Additional partners include Arriba, You Control, Latifundist, Zeep, Growex, Kartoza, Agrilab, Baker Tilly Ukraine, AgroNews, Deep State, the All-Ukrainian Congress of Farmers, UAC Agro Connection, OKKO, Epicentrk and Trend & Hedge Club. "The response from the industry has been loud and clear rallying to support the farmers of Ukraine is a commitment that many organizations are passionate about," Gebhardt said. "Our goal through this initiative is to put intentions into action by uniting some of the best agricultural companies in the world to help our fellow farmers in need. And the industry has eagerly stepped up to help." Farmerhood is one of several initiatives that were created in part through the Support Ukrainian Farmers Coalition, launched by EarthDaily Agro in April 2022 in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. "Russia's military aggression has substantially impeded Ukrainian farmers' ability to feed themselves, their families, their communities and the world," Gebhardt said. "In the face of such profound challenges, every incremental unit of a farmer's production takes on heightened importance. Ukrainian farmers feed the world, and today, they need our help. Farmerhood is our way of harnessing power of goodwill and unity to support these worthy, hardworking individuals in their time of need." Corporations, farmers and individuals alike are invited to donate to the Farmerhood support fund. To learn more and make a donation, visit www.farmerhood.org. About Farmerhood Farmerhood is a charity project developed by agriculture leaders to help Ukrainian farmers in war-torn areas maintain their business operations, restore farms and support the agricultural workforce. The initiative has established a global farmer-to-farmer donation model and a digital platform to enable easy and reliable support. Thousands of Ukrainian farmers have an opportunity to register via the Farmerhood platform and, once validated, receive help from farmers around the world. About EarthDaily EarthDaily Analytics Corporation (EDA), headquartered in Vancouver, B.C., is a software and space analytics company. Through its EarthDaily Agro subsidiary, EDA has a 35-year track record as a leader in value-added data analytics for the agriculture industry. Brought to you by a team of space industry experts and data scientists, the forthcoming EarthDaily Constellation will take global change detection to the next level. Becoming operational in 2024, the EarthDaily Constellation will operate in combination with EarthPipeline, the world's first fully managed ground segment pipeline-as-a-service to provide scientific-grade Earth Observation data covering everywhere, every day positioning EDA to serve diverse applications in agriculture, natural resources, infrastructure, climate change, national security and maritime, finance and insurance and ESG. MEDIA CONTACT Andrew Mullin Vice President of Marketing EarthDaily Agro [email protected] SOURCE EarthDaily Analytics BEIJING, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from chinadaily.com.cn: "When I first visited Shennongjia, I felt as though I had stumbled upon the enchanting mountains and waters of Switzerland. It is a must-visit destination for everyone." said Gong Biyang (Brian Gonzalez), a cultural and travel blogger from Argentina. He expressed the sentiment during his presentation at the meeting on Chinese modernization in Wuhan on May 29. Golden snub-nosed monkeys are endemic to Shennongjia [Photo by Li Kaiyu/provided to chinaservicesinfo.com] Scenery of Dajiu Lake National Wetland Park [Photo by Li Kaiyu/provided to chinaservicesinfo.com] Hubei Shennongjia is located in the Shennongjia Forest District and Badong county in Hubei province. It is on the ecotone from the plains and foothill regions of eastern China to the mountainous region of central China. In 2016, Shennongjia was officially included on the World Heritage List and was honored with the title of "World Natural Heritage Site", thanks to its exceptional floral and faunal biodiversity and its protection of many rare, endangered, and endemic species, including dove trees (Davidia involucrata) and golden snub-nosed monkeys. It also became the first location in China to be jointly listed under the three major protection systems of UNESCO - the Man and the Biosphere Programme, World Geoparks, and World Heritage - earning the prestigious title of "A triple-crown heritage site". In recent years, the forest district has continuously strengthened biodiversity conservation and its comprehensive water ecosystem management, effectively protecting the diversity, stability, and sustainability of the ecosystem. Currently, the biodiversity index of the entire area sits at 81.18, with 4,329 species of higher plants, 728 species of vertebrates, and 5,385 species of insects. Among them, 209 species are nationally foremost protected wildlife, accounting for 14.6 percent of the total. Local villagers also benefit from the focused and comprehensive efforts to preserve the ecosystem of Shennongjia, leading to a thriving life that leverages the area's natural resources. This includes engaging in science-themed tours and participating in birdwatching and night sky watching activities. As part of its reform measures, the CPC Shennongjia Forest District (county-level) committee, responsible for the area's development, has merged the administrative departments of the Shennongjia National Nature Reserve and the Dajiu Lake National Wetland Park, so as to facilitate the implementation of coordinated plans. Situated at an altitude of over 1,730 meters, Dajiu Lake is one of the few typical alpine wetland areas in China. The wetland area boasts abundant alpine meadows, wetland ferns, and is home to rare animals such as storks, cranes, and sika deer. The development of an ecological civilization has been an integral part of China's modernization initiative. This commitment was officially announced during the 18th CPC National Congress in 2018, as outlined in the "Five-sphere integrated plan." This plan aims to foster cooperation across economic, political, cultural, social, and ecological spheres. SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn TORONTO, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- May is National Arthritis Month and is a most fitting time to announce that Urban Poling's Activator Poles have received the Arthritis Foundation's Ease of Use Seal for the second year in a row! What is the Ease-of-Use program? Activator Poles for Balance, Rehab, Stability and Quality of Life. Activator Poles, Ease of Use Approved! The Arthritis Foundation's Ease of Use certification program is conducted by the Intuitive Design Applied Research Institute, which independently tests, approves, and certifies products that alleviate pain and enhance the daily lives of individuals with arthritis and chronic pain. By visiting their website, people living with arthritis can conveniently access a comprehensive list of certified arthritis-friendly products, including the Activator Poles. This ensures that individuals can make informed purchasing decisions based on products that have been rigorously tested and proven to be suitable for arthritis patients. For people with arthritis, even the simplest activities can feel nearly impossible due to chronic pain. This is why an occupational therapist and gerontologist designed the Activator Poles specifically for rehab and long-term conditions such as arthritis. The patented Activator Poles and program are proven to take the pressure off load-bearing joints and allow users to walk more freely and with less pain. Outstanding Performance of the Activator in the Evaluation Process During the evaluation process, the Activator Poles underwent rigorous testing with participants living with various types of arthritis. Notably, it was observed that these poles do not require a twisting motion to adjust their length or to collapse them for storage, unlike some other poles in the market. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis, who often find twisting motions challenging. A participant in the testing program remarked that the Activator Poles provide stability on uneven terrain and effectively shift weight from the legs to the arms, thus alleviating hip pain. The testimonial exemplifies the impact of the poles: "I am pleasantly surprised by the level of stability and support the poles provide, especially on challenging surfaces like mulch or uneven terrains. While I didn't notice a significant difference in cement, once I ventured onto natural terrain, they proved immensely helpful. By following the instructions and bearing down on the poles, I could divert weight from my legs to my arms, thus reducing the hip pain I typically experience while walking." The Activator Noteworthy Design Features Several design aspects of the Activator Poles garnered positive feedback from testing participants. The button lock stability feature, the patented CoreGrip handle, and the bell tips were particularly praised for their effectiveness and user-friendly nature. The key features highlighted are as follows: Button lock stability feature eliminates the need for twisting motions. Patented CoreGrip handle minimizes the need for a firm grip, reducing the risk of injuries. Activator bell tips provide enhanced stability both indoors and outdoors. A testing participant living with arthritis expressed appreciation for the patented CoreGrip and the button lock stability feature, stating: "I prefer the button lock stability feature over the twisting mechanism found in other poles. Additionally, the ledge to rest your hands on allows for a more relaxed grip. Compared to poles I've used in the past, the Activator Poles provide a superior sense of stability." Furthermore, another participant emphasized the benefits of the bell tips in maintaining stability across diverse terrains: "The poles felt most stable when walking on grass. I particularly appreciate the design of the bottom pole tips, which prevent them from sinking into the ground when I walk on softer surfaces." Diana Oliver, Managing Director of Urban Poling, expressed immense pride in their Activator Poles being recognized as the optimal walking pole choice for arthritis patients. She stated, "Witnessing the improvement in patients' lives is the ultimate reward and a driving force for us to expand our efforts in enhancing the lives of individuals grappling with long-term conditions." For further information on Urban Poling's Activator visit the Ease of Use Page, their website at http://www.urbanpoling.com or send them an email at [email protected] Media Contact: Diana Oliver, [email protected], 416-668-0116 SOURCE Urban Poling Inc. VANCOUVER, BC, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wondershare, a leading global technology company, is thrilled to announce its inaugural participation as an event sponsor at the highly anticipated Dublin Tech Summit, taking place from May 31 to June 1, 2023. During the event, the company will showcase its most popular products, including Filmora, PDFelement, EdrawMax, EdrawMind, and Virbro , which are all integrated with innovative AI technology. Wondershare aims to introduce these innovative solutions to European clients, demonstrating their capacity to accelerate growth for enterprises, creators and SMBs alike. Wondershare Dublin Tech Summit 2023 The Dublin Tech Summit, hosted at the renowned Venue RDS in Dublin, Ireland, provides a platform for Wondershare to engage with technology enthusiasts, industry professionals, and thought leaders. Featuring "Get Work Done FAST and Unleash FURIOUS Creativity", Wondershare's exhibitor booth C1 is going to captivate visitors with a suite of intelligent tools powered by AI. It is a great opportunity for those who want to get more work done in less time for greater efficiency. One of the exciting highlights is the overseas release of Virbo, an AI video editor which allows users to generate realistic 3D digital humans with just a click. Regarding Wondershare's participation, the company's CEO Tobee Wu expresses their enthusiasm for the event and their commitment to delivering exceptional products that cater to the evolving needs of their users. "We put so much effort in advancing our products from mere functionality to enhanced experiences. The incorporation of AI-powered feature is a noticeable indication of our game-changing strategy and dedication to help individual and business users boost their work efficiency," Tobee Wu states. "As we expand our presence in the European market, we are excited to offer our products in multiple languages for users from different regions. We see enormous potential in the European market. Our network of customer service and tutorial content will efficiently onboard beginner users." In addition to showcasing the revolutionary products, Wondershare is delighted to offer exciting interactive activities and valuable prizes to attendees, including the Experience Card, Lucky Draw to win the Annual Product Free Subscription and a set of LEGO prize. About Wondershare Wondershare is globally recognized as a software company that is committed to delivering innovative solutions for personal and professional use. As a leader in creativity and productivity products, Wondershare has received prestigious awards from organizations such as The Shorty Awards, G2, and GetApp. At Wondershare, the mission is to empower individuals to pursue their passions and build a more creative world. With over 100 million users across 150 countries, users can access a wide range of software solutions for video editing (Filmora), PDF editing (PDFelement), Mind Mapping (Edraw), data recovery, diagram and graphics, and more. Together, Wondershare strives to provide high-quality, user-friendly software that enables individuals and businesses to bring their creative ideas to life. Iris Liu [email protected] SOURCE Wondershare Family Office-led consortium ownership provides platform for long-term stability and value creation Existing executive team and employee base remains in-place DENVER, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PureWest Energy, LLC ("PureWest" or the "Company"), a leading Rocky Mountain independent natural gas producer has completed an all-cash merger with a newly formed entity sponsored by a private consortium of family offices and financial institutions ("PW Consortium") for a total consideration of $1.84 billion. Following the closing of the transaction, PureWest's existing management and employees will remain in-place, a new Board of Directors will be formed composed of representatives from PW Consortium and the entity will remain branded as PureWest Energy, LLC. Chris Valdez, PureWest CEO commented, "Since its inception, PureWest has achieved a remarkable series of accomplishments. Our team has successfully consolidated operations on the Pinedale Anticline, showcasing a sustainable inventory runway. Moreover, we have positioned our brand as a prominent market leader in low methane certified gas and earned recognition as the best workplace in Denver. We are thrilled about our partnership with the new equity consortium, which will further fortify the robust platform we have established." Ty Harrison, PureWest President and CFO, added, "This transaction strategically positions PureWest for sustainable long-term value creation by leveraging its unique capital structure, which includes family office equity and securitized debt. The Company plans to increase its high-margin production through development, as well as execute its differentiated gas strategy." Members of PW Consortium include A.G. Hill Partners LLC, Cain Capital L.L.C., Eaglebine Capital Partners, LP, Fortress Investment Group, HF Capital, LLC, Petro-Hunt LLC and Wincoram Asset Management. As part of the transaction, the Company closed on a third asset-backed securitization. The offering featured $200 million of notes offered and sold as a 4(a)(2) private placement (the "Notes Offering"). The Notes were investment grade rated by an NRSRO. Additionally, as part of the transaction, the Company has closed on a divestiture of producing wellbores to investment vehicles managed by Wincoram Asset Management. Evercore served as exclusive financial advisor and Vinson & Elkins served as legal counsel to PureWest. Guggenheim Securities, LLC served as sole financial advisor and O'Melveny & Myers LLP, David B. Denechaud, PLLC and Jackson Walker LLP served as legal counsel to the PW Consortium. Guggenheim Securities, LLC also served as sole structuring advisor, sole book-running manager and sole placement agent in connection with the Notes Offering. About PureWest PureWest Energy, LLC is a private energy company focused on developing its long-life gas reserves in Wyoming's Green River Basin where the Company controls more than 111,000 net acres in and around the prolific Pinedale and Jonah Fields. PureWest is focused on achieving ever-higher ESG performance as part of its commitment to stakeholders and has an industry leading methane intensity rate of 0.05%, more than two years with zero motor vehicle incidents, and PureWest's employee led community investment program. Additional information is available at PureWest.com. The Notes were offered in a private offering to certain accredited investors and qualified institutional buyers ("QIBs") under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act. The Notes have not been, and will not be, registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration under, or an applicable exemption from, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the Notes or any other security and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which, or to any persons to whom, such offering, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Media Contact: Anthony Odem, VP Finance [email protected] SOURCE PureWest SILVER SPRING, Md., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued warning letters to 30 retailers, including one distributor, for illegally selling unauthorized tobacco products. The unauthorized products were various types of Puff and Hyde brand disposable e-cigarettes, which were two of the most commonly reported brands used by youth e-cigarette users in 2022. The Puff products include Puff Bar. Today's action underscores the agency's unwavering commitment to addressing the role retailers and distributors of unauthorized tobacco products play in this concerning public health issue facing America's youth. "Protecting our nation's youth from tobacco products including disposable e-cigarettes is a top priority for the FDA," said FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D. "We're committed to holding all players in the supply chain not just manufacturers but also retailers and distributors accountable to the law." Today's warning letters are a result of a nationwide blitz to crack down on the sale of unauthorized e-cigarettes that are popular with youth specifically Puff and Hyde products. The blitz included investigations of hundreds of retailers and distributors across the country. All products cited in the warning letters are disposable e-cigarettes, which are the most commonly used e-cigarette product type among youth. Puff Bar and Hyde were the first and third most popular brands used by youth who reported using e-cigarettes, according to the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey. Among youth e-cigarette users, about 20 percent reported usually using Puff Bar or Hyde brand products in 2022. "Since becoming director of CTP, I've been crystal clear that FDA will not stand by while retailers and distributors seek to profit off illegally selling products that are well-known to appeal to youth," said Brian King, Ph.D., M.P.H., director of the FDA's Center for Tobacco Products. "Retailers and distributors play a key role in keeping unauthorized tobacco products off the shelves, and if they fail to do so, we're committed to taking appropriate action." When e-cigarettes lack a marketing authorization order from the FDA, selling or distributing them to consumers in the U.S. is prohibited under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The FDA generally sends warning letters the first time an inspection or investigation reveals a violation of the law, and recipients are given 15 working days to respond with the steps they'll take to correct the violation and to prevent future violations. A majority of recipients of warning letters voluntarily correct the stated violation. However, failure to promptly correct the violations can result in additional FDA actions such as an injunction, seizure and/or civil money penalties. In addition to today's actions among retailers, the FDA issued a warning letter to an importer of Puff Bar in October 2022; that investigation remains ongoing. To date, the FDA has authorized 23 tobacco-flavored e-cigarette products and devices. These are the only e-cigarette products that currently may be lawfully sold in the U.S. The distribution or sale of unlawfully marketed products is subject to enforcement action. The FDA remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting youth from the harms of tobacco products by ensuring illegal products are not marketed, sold, or distributed. These efforts include ongoing surveillance of the marketplace to identify violative products, including existing and emerging disposable e-cigarette products. In February, FDA filed the agency's first civil money penalty complaints against four e-cigarette manufacturers; to date, FDA has filed civil money penalty complaints against ten e-cigarette manufacturers. And in October 2022, the first complaints for permanent injunctions were filed against six e-cigarette manufacturers. From January 2021 through May 2023, FDA issued more than 560 warning letters. All of these actions are part of FDA's standing compliance and enforcement portfolio, and the latest counts of these actions will continue to be reported on a routine basis. FDA will continue to take action against anyone making, distributing, importing, or selling unauthorized e-cigarette products, especially those most used by youth. Additional Resources: Media Contact: Abby Capobianco, 240-461-9059 Consumer Inquiries: Email or 888-INFO-FDA (888-463-0332) The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products. SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Eric L. Young of Young Law Group, P.C., announced today that private equity firm Belhealth Investment Partners, its principals, and their portfolio companies, Linden Care and Quick Care, have agreed to pay $9 Million to settle alleged False Claims Act violations in a qui tam complaint first filed by YLG in 2016. After the Department of Justice declined to intervene in the case, YLG was joined by Kang Haggerty, LLC, Richard J. Hollawell & Associates, and Miller Shah, LLP, in successfully resolving claims alleging that Defendants unlawfully distributed Subsys, a potent, rapid-onset fentanyl sublingual spray, in violation of the Controlled Substances Act. YLG filed the original qui tam complaint against Insys Therapeutics, Inc. and Linden Care LLC in 2016. The government intervened in this case in 2018 only as to the claims against Defendant Insys, the well-known defunct manufacturer of Subsys. YLG and Kang Haggerty's amended complaint alleged that between 2013 through at least 2016, mail order specialty pharmacies Linden Care and Quick Care, under Belhealth's control and direction, dispensed thousands of Subsys prescriptions nationwide to government healthcare programs for widespread off-label and non-medically accepted uses, despite the known high potential for abuse of the drug. "The egregiousness of defendants' misconduct motivated us to aggressively pursue the case against Linden Care and Belhealth despite the Government's decision not to intervene in the case," said Eric L. Young. Young added, "This case serves as a tragic reminder of how corporate greed has fueled the opioid epidemic that has devastated the lives of so many Americans and their families." Young emphasized that, in recent years, qui tam plaintiffs have increased efforts to hold private equity firms accountable under the False Claims Act. "Thankfully, False Claims Act plaintiffs, including the Department of Justice, may be more likely to pursue cases against private equity firms when there is evidence that the firm was actively involved in the company's day-to-day operations, knew about the alleged fraud, but did nothing to stop it. We are pleased that the successful outcome of our case will provide additional legal support for these efforts", Young stated. About Young Law Group Since 2009, Young Law Group attorneys have represented whistleblower clients in actions that resulted in recoveries of more than $3 billion on behalf of the federal and state governments. YLG specializes in the representation of whistleblowers in qui tam actions filed under the False Claims Act, as well as the whistleblower programs of the SEC, the CTFC, and the IRS. YLG Founder Eric L. Young was named as one of two "Lawyers of the Year" in 2020 by the Taxpayers Against Fraud Education Fund, the leading organization dedicated to combatting fraud against the government. The case is captioned United States ex rel. Jane Doe v. Insys Therapeutics, No. 2:16-cv-7937-JLS-AS (C.D. Cal.). Contact: Eric L. Young 800-590-4116 SOURCE Young Law Group U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (OK-R) can't handle the truth. At a March Senate hearing, he told a witness to "shut your mouth." And today at a hearing on child care he proclaimed "No, I don't want reality," when a colleague asked him if he would allow a witness to answer a question. McMullin, an election-denying ex-cage fighter, appears to have anger management issues. From The Oklahoman: U.S. Rep. Markwayne Mullin was forced to retract some of his words Wednesday after members of a subcommittee complained that his language violated House rules of decorum. The Oklahoma Republican said at a meeting on several health care bills that his plumbing company employees believe their health coverage "sucks." When a Democratic member interrupted him, Mullin said he could "shut up." Sanders: Can she answer the question? Mullin: No, I don't want reality pic.twitter.com/Icf3jSHIC1 Acyn (@Acyn) May 31, 2023 Facts about McMullin from Wikipedia: NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of First Horizon Corporation (NYSE: FHN) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws. Class Period: February 28, 2022 to May 3, 2023 Lead Plaintiff Deadline: July 21, 2023 No obligation or cost to you. Learn more about your recoverable losses in FHN: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/first-horizon-lawsuit-loss-submission-form?id=40056&from=4 First Horizon Corporation NEWS - FHN NEWS CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: According to the complaint, defendants made false statements and/or concealed that TD Bank failed to disclose material information to the market that it had deficient internal controls that posed a significant risk to the closing of the First Horizon transaction. Specifically, TD Bank suffered from grossly ineffective internal controls regarding anti-money laundering practices and failed to appropriately report unusual transactions or suspicious activity to U.S. regulators. According to a report published by The Wall Street Journal, in "recent years," TD Bank only "flagged 28 customer transactions" as suspicious. As a result, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the U.S. Federal Reserve refused to approve the transaction within the necessary time frames. WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in First Horizon you have until July 21, 2023 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff. NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased First Horizon securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees. HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the FHN lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/first-horizon-lawsuit-loss-submission-form?id=40056&from=4. ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. CONTACT: J. Klein, Esq. 535 Fifth Avenue 4th Floor New York City, NY 10017 [email protected] Telephone: (212) 616-4899 www.kleinstocklaw.com SOURCE The Klein Law Firm Law Offices of James R. Moriarty: Military families remain troubled by court ruling that defendant Hunt Military Communities can force continued payment of rent on uninhabitable properties SAN ANTONIO, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The first trial in federal-court litigation brought by military families alleging they were sickened by and forced to live in toxic mold- and pest-infested base housing at JBSA-Randolph Air Force Base and Laughlin Air Force Base is set to begin on June 5 in San Antonio, according to the Law Offices of James R. Moriarty and co-counsel. James R. Moriarty of the military families' legal team said, "This litigation is urgent for the affected military families in the case, but also for thousands of other servicemembers and their families around the nation that live in substandard privatized military housing controlled by a cartel of unaccountable companies." The case is "Michael J. Daniels and Barbara High-Daniels, et al., v. AETC II Privatized Housing, LLC, et al.," No. 5:19-cv-01280 in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, San Antonio Division. The court ruled that the cases will be tried on a family-by-family basis. The defendants in the case are AETC II Privatized Housing, LLC, AETC II Property Managers, LLC, and Hunt ELP, Ltd., doing business as Hunt Military Communities. As the first case approaches trial, a controversial ruling by U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard B. Farrer has left all of the military family tenants in the case obligated to continue paying rent even if their residences are so damaged they cannot be occupied. The Federal Enclave Doctrine, as interpreted by Judge Farrer, means that the Military Housing Privatization Initiative (MHPI) offers no legal protections for servicemembers and their families against landlords such as Hunt. The court concluded that servicemembers can only assert a claim that Hunt breached leases on the housing. Moriarty said, "According to this court, neither our service members, nor their spouses and children, have any additional rights under the housing contract and are owed no duties by Hunt. Under this interpretation of the law, we have families that are profoundly impacted from both health and financial perspectives with almost nowhere to go for help." Hunt's contention, which Judge Farrer has agreed with, is based on the interpretation of Texas law from the 1940s and 1950s. This interpretation claims that landlords have no inherent duty to repair property unless specified in the lease. Hunt argues that the lease agreement does not extend rights to non-signatories such as family members. Hunt's only obligation, according to the lease, is to make a "diligent effort to repair or remedy the condition" once it has been brought to their attention by the servicemember. Moriarty added, "Our military must do better for our servicemembers and their families. They should not be forced to live in dangerous housing. This trial and our fight for these military families is about justice and holding companies like Hunt accountable even if the military refuses to do so." CONTACT: James R. Moriarty, The Law Offices of James R. Moriarty, [email protected], 713.857.1212. SOURCE Law Offices of James R. Moriarty Winning portfolio chronicles conflict in Central Africa, the Middle East and Ukraine WASHINGTON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Women's Media Foundation (IWMF) today announced freelance photojournalist Laurence Geai as its ninth annual recipient of the Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award. The prestigious award recognizes women photojournalists who document humanity amid conflict and challenges facing marginalized communities worldwide. The award was created in honor of German Associated Press photojournalist Anja Niedringhaus, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2014. Geai's winning portfolio, and the bulk of her work in photojournalism, includes reporting from the Central African Republic (CAR), Iraq, Israel, Palestine and Syria, as well as recent images taken during the war in Ukraine. Based in Paris, Geai's photojournalism concentrates on inequity, migration, politics and war especially how conflict impacts the most vulnerable members of war-torn communities; notably, women and children. "The IWMF is proud to honor the importance of a woman's lens in the field of photojournalism," said Elisa Lees Munoz Tweet this "Photojournalists must see through the flood of misinformation, and the noise of social networks, to bring truth to our world," said Geai. "In my line of work, I've witnessed that we don't learn from war: we continue the habits of conflict again and again. I believe Anja's reporting pushed against mainstream news coverage; she pursued every angle in every dark corner. It's an honor to receive this award I am deeply grateful to the IWMF and the jury for their support." Two additional honorees were recognized this year due to their remarkable bravery and strength of their portfolios: Korean American photojournalist Yunghi Kim and French photojournalist Veronique de Viguerie. Kim's work, captured across four decades in Korea, Rwanda, Kosovo and the United States, charts fast-moving and complex news events captured during intense moments of global crisis. de Viguerie's portfolio challenges stereotypes surrounding women in Afghanistan, revealing the strength of a courageous community who are typically misrepresented. "Anja's legacy, simply stated, was to report where others may not look and bring women-led, visual journalism to people around the world" said IWMF Executive Director Elisa Lees Munoz. "The IWMF is proud to recognize Laurence, Yunghi and Veronique in this spirit and honor the importance, and nuance, of a woman's lens in the field of photojournalism." This year's jury included editors, IWMF board members and photojournalists Corinne Dufka, Whitney Johnson, Rene Jones, Benny Snyder, Sandra M. Stevenson and Bernadette Tuazon, who reviewed 78 qualifying portfolios from 35 countries. Following selection, the jury issued the following statement: "This year's winner and honorees demonstrated a remarkable breadth and depth of skill within their portfolios. Their collective commitment to different communities across time was notable, especially given the range of conflict they've experienced across several decades of work. Each was able to capture the raw emotion of their subjects particularly grief, struggle and triumph. Together they sought out stories rather than simply being present, which mimics the vision, style and work ethic of Anja. Our congratulations to Laurence, Yunghi and Veronique." Anja Niedringhaus was a recipient of the IWMF Courage in Journalism Award in 2005. The winner's $20,000 prize is made possible by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation. Honorees' images and captions, biographies, and headshots are available for media use with proper attribution; to inquire further, please contact Charlotte Fox ([email protected]). Courage in Photojournalism Award Winner This year's winner, Laurence Geai, is a French freelance photojournalist currently working in Paris. Geai began her work in photojournalism in 2014, following a degree in international trade and professional experience in the fashion industry. Her career change led her to television broadcast reporting and then photography. Geai became deeply interested in the roots of war and traveled to the Central African Republic (CAR) early in her career, followed by Syria, Iraq, Israel and Palestine. She's also covered the consequences of the refugee crisis in Europe and France. In her work, Geai tries to meet the protagonists of each conflict, whenever possible. In 2022, she joined the agency MYOP and collaborates with several publications, including Le Monde, Paris Match, Polka, Elle, La Vie, Marianne, Telerama, Le Nouvel Obs, Le Pelerin, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, M le Magazine and others. Geai also photographs extensively for nonprofit organizations. In 2021, Geai won a World Press Photo award (third prize in the General Information category) for her series on the COVID-19 pandemic in France. Her other accolades include the 2020 Grand Prix Les Femmes S'exposent, a Reuters Grant, Wars first prize, third prize in the Sciences PO Political Photograph Contest, first prize in the Single Shot Award of the Festival Della Fotografia Etica and Polka Photographer of the Year. Geai remarked, "When you see people suffering, it's hard to take their picture you must learn to work amidst conflict with care. It's true that often you see the worst of humanity, but you also see the best, and that's what I hope to convey: what it looks like and feels like to get to the heart of a situation and tell someone's story to the world." Geai continued, "I am humbled to receive this award, especially in the year I first became a mother! My work can feel small compared to Anja's talent, but this award encourages me to carry the torch in her legacy." Twitter: @laurencegeai, Instagram: @laurencegeai Courage in Photojournalism Honorees Yunghi Kim is a photojournalist who has covered conflict and in-depth, issue-driven stories worldwide for almost four decades, including famine in Somalia (where she was held hostage ) and sexual slavery of the South Korean Comfort Women. Kim immigrated to the United States from South Korea at 10 years old. She graduated from Boston University in 1984 and began her career as a photographer at The Patriot Ledger in Quincy, MA, where she was the first woman photographer hired in the photography department. Kim then moved to The Boston Globe working as a staff photographer for seven years. In 1995 she became a member of Contact Press Images. Kim's professional accolades include the Olivier Rebbot and the John Faber Awards from the Overseas Press Club, the National Press Photographers Association's Clifton Edom Award and Joseph Costa Award, Pictures of the Year International (including Magazine Photographer of the Year 1997), the Visa D'Or for News, The White House Press Photographers, and World Press Photo, as well as a Distinguished Alumni Award from Boston University's School of Communication. She was also the 1993 finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Feature Photography for her work of Somalia famine. Kim has also served as a speaker at the Nieman Narrative Journalism Conference at Harvard University. She's a former member of NPPA's Board of Directors and a 2012 recipient of the United Nations' Leadership Award in the field of photography, awarded by The International Photographic Council. Kim's also served on the faculty of World Press Photo, Eddie Adams and Missouri Photo Workshop. In 2015, Kim instituted a grant to photojournalists The Yunghi Grant and in 2022, awarded $18,000 in grants to six photojournalists. Since its inception, the grant's funded $100,000 to working photojournalists. In 2021, Kim debuted a short documentary film, in collaboration with and directed by veteran photojournalist Bill Frakes, "Unflinching Grace," which looks back on decades of reporting by three women photojournalists. Twitter: @yunghi, https://twitter.com/cguzyInstagram: @yunghi.kim Veronique de Viguerie, a multi-awarded (one World Press Photo, two Visa d'Or, two Bayeux Prizes at the war correspondent festival, one Canon Prize for best women photographer, and one Lagardere prize for young photographer) is a photojournalist represented by Getty Reportage and Verbatim Photo Agency, and is based in Paris. De Viguerie began her study of photojournalism in England following the completion of a master's degree in law in France. In 2004, she spent three years working and living in Afghanistan. Since that time, she's covered stories from Iraq, Somalia, Lebanon, Kashmir, Mexico, Algeria, Guatemala, Pakistan, Niger, Nigeria, Mali, Syria and other locations. De Viguerie's work, "Afghanistan Insh'Allah," was exhibited in Visa pour l'Image in Perpignan, in Paris and at the Scoop Festival in Angers; "The Oil War in Nigeria" was exhibited at the Bayeux festival for the war correspondents. Her pictures are regularly published in Paris-Match, Le Figaro Magzine, the New York Times, Newsweek, El Pais, Stern, Der Spiegel, Geo, Marie Claire, Mail on Sunday, the Guardian and l'Optimum, among other outlets. De Viguerie aims to show the world not in black and white but in colors with all its complexities. She received wide recognition for photographing the Taliban in Afghanistan, pirates in Somalia, oil pirates in Nigeria and the Sicaraias (women killers) in Colombia and the Mouvement National pour la Liberation de l'Azawad (MNLA) in Mali, the Rebels in RCA. In 2006 de Viguerie published her first book, "Afghanistan, Regards Croises," with Marie Bourreau. She has since published "Carnets de Reportage du XXIe siecle" in 2011 and "Profession: Reporter" again with Manon Querouil Bruneel in 2015. In 2012, de Viguerie was chosen as one of the three photographers by HBO for the documentary series "Witness" based on her work following the Arrow Boys in South Sudan. Twitter: @vero2v, Instagram: @veroniquedeviguerie About the International Women's Media Foundation The International Women's Media Foundation (IWMF) is the only global organization built to serve the holistic needs of women and nonbinary journalists. We are a bold and inclusive organization that supports journalists where they are with awards, reporting opportunities, fellowships, grants, safety training and emergency aid. As one of the largest supporters of women-produced journalism, our transformative work strengthens equal opportunity and press freedom worldwide. Follow the IWMF on Twitter at @IWMF, on Facebook at @IWMFPage, on Instagram on @TheIWMF and on TikTok @theiwmf. SOURCE The International Women's Media Foundation Company will expand G-P Meridian Suite with AI-based products that address everything a company needs for global growth G-P's Chief Product and Strategy Officer Nat (Rajesh) Natarajan to share vision during keynote at 2023 Dublin Tech Summit BOSTON and DUBLIN, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- REMOTE FIRST COMPANY -- G-P (Globalization Partners), the pioneer and recognized leader in the global employment industry, known for setting the standard in global employment compliance, today unveiled its vision for global growth technology, a new category that will move the employer of record (EOR) industry into new territory. The company also announced future G-P Meridian Suite products that will provide rich insights and global expertise, remove the friction for global expansion, and ensure compliant employee lifecycle management. The new category global growth technology - was sparked by the demands and opportunities of the everywhere workforce. McKinsey, in partnership with G-P, recently estimated this market to be worth well over $50 billion. Modern work has been transformed by technological advances enabling companies to quickly build global teams and the availability of talent from emerging countries. However, companies need guidance on where to start, and support to implement and manage strategies that effectively unlock opportunities. "Our vision for G-P Meridian Suite is to enable business leaders to find success building and managing global teams while enabling the professionals they hire to do their best work no matter where they are in the world," said Nicole Sahin, founder and CEO, G-P. "Modern work isn't just about where your business lives today. At G-P, it's about where opportunities can take you tomorrow. Where you see growth made possible, teamwork made possible, and global made possible...for everyone." With today's announcement, G-P invites customers to participate in a beta launch of: G-P Meridian IQ that will provide the intelligence companies need to inform their business growth around the world. This includes real-time salary and benefit benchmarking data by country, information on the best markets for specific talent, hiring and employer burden cost data, details on local compliance laws and tax requirements and more. G-P Meridian IQ will leverage proprietary global data and insights for planning and strategic expansion. that will provide the intelligence companies need to inform their business growth around the world. This includes real-time salary and benefit benchmarking data by country, information on the best markets for specific talent, hiring and employer burden cost data, details on local compliance laws and tax requirements and more. G-P Meridian IQ will leverage proprietary global data and insights for planning and strategic expansion. G-P Meridian eLibrary that will provide customizable and locally compliant digital document templates and software to help customers save time and deliver a richer, localized experience to their global workforce. Available document templates will include employment contracts, HR forms, best practices guides, benefits guides, employee handbooks and more. that will provide customizable and locally compliant digital document templates and software to help customers save time and deliver a richer, localized experience to their global workforce. Available document templates will include employment contracts, HR forms, best practices guides, benefits guides, employee handbooks and more. G-P Meridian Advisor that will support employee engagement, address employee issues and answer payroll or benefits questions for teams in markets around the globe using G-P's proprietary data. Enabled by generative AI, G-P Meridian Advisor will support common queries, guide users through workflows and offer best-in-class advice based on over a decade of experience supporting thousands of companies expanding teams globally. Companies will also be able to access G-P's global network of experts who can provide direct support for all aspects of HR and global compliance. that will support employee engagement, address employee issues and answer payroll or benefits questions for teams in markets around the globe using G-P's proprietary data. Enabled by generative AI, G-P Meridian Advisor will support common queries, guide users through workflows and offer best-in-class advice based on over a decade of experience supporting thousands of companies expanding teams globally. Companies will also be able to access G-P's global network of experts who can provide direct support for all aspects of HR and global compliance. G-P Meridian Marketplace that will enable companies to connect directly to G-P's certified partners through a single platform, creating one interface for customers to access products and services needed to support their global expansion. Payroll and HRIS partners will be seamlessly integrated to eliminate manual data transfers between platforms. G-P Meridian Marketplace will also connect companies to localized services such as office space, IT hardware and support, relocation services and so much more. "At G-P, we're bringing together everything a company and its workforce need for global growth with our AI-enabled platform, our comprehensive and customizable product suite and our unmatched network of in-country local market experts," said Nat (Rajesh) Natarajan, chief product and strategy officer, G-P. G-P will introduce additional global growth solutions as part of the G-P Meridian Suite over the next 18 months. Register to participate in the beta launch here and learn more about the complete offerings of G-P Meridian Suite here . About G-P G-P is the pioneer and recognized leader of the global employment industry and has delivered world-class global compliance and workforce products designed to meet the needs of growing companies since 2012. G-P's global growth platform is driven by the G-P Meridian Suite of SaaS-based global employment products. G-P helps thousands of customers build and manage teams quickly and compliantly in 180+ countries without navigating legal, tax or HR issues. G-P: Global Made Possible To learn more, please visit: g-p.com or connect with us via Twitter , LinkedIn , Facebook , or check out our Blog . SOURCE G-P Rebranded as a Digital Channel, the Station Aids in Germany's Transition to CTV and Smart TV LONDON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Amagi, the global leader in cloud-based SaaS technology for broadcast and connected TV, today announced that health tv, a German private television station owned by the hospital group Asklepios, is making its foray into Free Ad-supported Streaming TV (FAST) using Amagi's cloud solutions. health tv will now enjoy improved audience reach with its wide range of diverse content offerings, educating viewers on important topics of health, medicine, and wellbeing. Moreover, health tv's entry into the connected TV (CTV) and smart TV ecosystem marks another pioneering step for Germany in entering this new media landscape. "In Germany, we are still at the beginning, but the USA has always been a trendsetter in the media world," says Marina Gunesch, Managing Director of health tv. "With our new look, we are making it easier for our users to find the right information for their individual needs quickly, clearly, and easily. Thanks to Amagi, everyone should be able to find their way around our digital channel." The Amagi CLOUDPORT channel playout platform and the Amagi PLANNER content scheduling platform are enabling health tv to easily create, manage, and distribute its linear TV channel. Moreover, the Amagi CONNECT end-to-end marketplace has helped the channel network with more than 20 of today's leading FAST platforms. Overall, Amagi's tools have provided the platform with easy-to-use resources and know-how for creating a linear TV channel with advertisements. health tv is one of the largest digital video platforms in the German healthcare industry. As a healthcare medium, the platform adheres to guidelines developed by the Council of Medical Specialty Societies (CMSS), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the National Academy of Medicine (NAM). All contributed content to the platform is reviewed by licensed medical practitioners before being published. Currently streaming on FAST channels and VoD media libraries such as waipu.tv, Rakuten TV, and Zattoo, health tv plans to launch its channel on more platforms in the coming months. "Amagi believes in making content more discoverable, especially if the information can help viewers live richer and healthier lives," said Srinivasan KA, Co-founder & Chief Revenue Officer at Amagi. "We're happy to help health tv fulfil its mission by transitioning to digital, where its content is sure to have a more significant impact on viewers' education." For more information about Amagi and its streaming TV solutions, visit www.amagi.com. About health tv Health tv has been producing high-quality content on the topics of "medicine, exercise, lifestyle, & nutrition" since 2016 and has a unique selling point as the only digital health TV channel in the German-speaking world. Headquartered in Hamburg, the channel stands for expertise, trust, and emotionality. It has its own health tv doc, Dr. Andreas Martin, and was recently awarded YouTube's new medical label. The YouTube Health seal stands for particularly reliable health information and is intended to help users in their search for high-quality health information. health tv can be accessed via CTV and YouTube. Founders and majority owners of the channel are Asklepios Kliniken. For more information, visit www.healthtv.de. About Amagi Amagi is a next-generation media technology company that provides cloud broadcast and targeted advertising solutions to broadcast TV and streaming TV platforms. Amagi enables content owners to launch, distribute and monetize live linear channels on Free Ad-supported Streaming TV and video services platforms. Amagi also offers 24x7 cloud-managed services bringing simplicity, advanced automation, and transparency to the entire broadcast operations. Overall, Amagi supports 700+ content brands, 800+ playout chains, and over 2100 channel deliveries on its platform in over 40 countries. Amagi has a presence in New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, London, Paris, Melbourne, Seoul, Singapore, and broadcast operations in New Delhi, and an innovation center in Bangalore. Agency Contact: Joseph Lesieutre Wall Street Communications Email: [email protected] Press contact: German health tv GmbH Marina Gunesch +49 (0) 40 - 8081 38 001 [email protected] Amagi Contact: Sanjay Kirimanjeshwar Vice President - Corporate Marketing Email: [email protected] SOURCE Amagi Media Labs Pvt. Ltd. DUBLIN, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Technology Advances in Senolytics" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This research identifies the various drugs, modalities, development approaches, technology advancements, nutraceutical growth, opportunities for their translation to over-the counter (OTC) treatments, as well as the challenges that still require addressing. Senolytics is a relatively new field of development that falls under the broad category of senotherapeutics, along with senomorphics and senostatics. Although nascent, the field could address the root causes of most chronic conditions brought on by aging as it clears senescent cells that have ceased to multiply (and ideally are eliminated from the body) but remain metabolically active after a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) change, which leads to disease conditions. The youngest baby boomers will be over the age of 65 in 2029, just 6 years away, which suggests an expanding economic burden related to this population, considering the cost of healthcare, caregivers, palliative care, health insurance, and other care-related activities. This wave of baby boomers makes it essential to address chronic diseases at their onset through senotherapeutics, with senolytics being such a method. Senotherapeutic drug development suffered a few minor hiccups in the early days of research. For instance, in 2020, one new drug failed at inception after investors had contributed significant funding. However, constant research has resulted in a few possible opportunities that have rekindled interest in this area. It is imperative to track developments in this space to understand the progress of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and other emerging opportunities. This is a compelling space to watch for investments and research. In addition, the study highlights the immediate R&D needs and innovations likely to emerge in the next 5 years, and it sheds light on developments regarding mergers and acquisitions (M&As), partnerships, licensing, funding, and opportunity areas for growth. Key Topics Covered: 1 Strategic Imperatives Why Is It Increasingly Difficult to Grow? The Strategic Imperative The Strategic Imperative The Impact of the Top 3 Strategic Imperatives on the Senolytics Industry Growth Opportunities Fuel the Growth Pipeline Engine Research Methodology 2 Scope and Segmentation Research Context and Scope of Analysis Segmentation 3 Growth Opportunity Analysis Growth Drivers Growth Restraints 4 Introduction to Senescence and Senolytics The Need for Senotherapeutics Senolytics Are Emerging as a Promising Class of Senotherapeutics Benefits of Senolytics over Other Senotherapeutics Senolytic Drug Development Timeline Senolytics - A Novel Approach to Healthcare, Presents Interesting Opportunities and Challenges Successes, Opportunities, and Failures in Senolytic Drug Discovery Promising R&D Prospects in Senolytics 5 Technology Snapshot Things to Know about Senolytic Drug Development Approaches to Target Sncs Increase R&D Opportunities and Success Possibilities Targets, Drugs, and Modalities under Investigation to Develop Senolytic Drugs Anti-apoptotic Pathways Are a Highly Explored Area for Senolytics Targeting Anti-apoptotic Pathways Is a Common Approach to Senolytic Drugs Tackling Newer Targets Is an Emerging Approach Therapies Targeting Various Physiologies and Pathways Small Molecule Senolytics Biologics under Development for Senolytics Cell and Gene Therapies under Development for Senolytics Approaches to Improve the Senolytic Drug Development Process Players in the Senolytic Drug Development Field Natural Products Can Potentially Translate to Senolytics Naturally Derived Senolytics and Commercial Developments Opportunities and Recent Advancements in Naturally Derived Senolytics Continuous Innovations Will Shape the Senolytic Drug Development Industry during the Next 5 Years Outlook for Senolytic Drug Development 6 Technology Enablers Bolstering Senolytics Development Senolytic Drug Technology Enablers Emerging Technologies for Senolytic Drug Development and Diagnostics Biomarkers Play a Vital Role in the Senotherapeutic Industry Efforts to Discover a Universal SNC Biomarker AI-assisted Advances in Drug Discovery and Diagnostics 7 Stakeholder Ecosystem Financial Growth, M&As, Partnership Trends, and New Entrants Are Evident in the Young Field of Senolytics A Conducive Funding Environment, an Active R&D Space, and the Significant Contribution of AI Drive Senolytic Drug Development Completed M&As and Proposed Mergers to Look Forward to in 2023 Partnerships in Senolytic Drug Discovery and Development Skew Toward AI Drug and Technology Licensing and IPOs by Senolytic Developing Companies Will Increase Spin-off Companies Developing Senolytic Drugs Are on the Increase Conducive Grants and Research Funding Support Senotherapeutics Funding Analysis in the Senolytic Drug Development Industry 8 Growth Opportunity Universe Growth Opportunity 1: Growing Involvement of Large Pharma Companies Growth Opportunity 2: Development of New Biomarkers to Aid in Drug Discovery Growth Opportunity 3: Convergence Opportunities Between Drug Development Companies 9 Next Steps For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/jjrgzf About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg SOURCE Research and Markets SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Gold Kidney Health Plan, a Medicare Advantage Plan offering products for beneficiaries with Chronic Special Needs, announced its partnership with Prospect Medical Group, a leading provider network serving Maricopa County, Arizona. Gold Kidney and Prospect Medical Group's goal is to provide accessible healthcare choices to support Medicare-eligible Arizona residents with chronic care conditions such as diabetes, heart failure, cardiovascular disease, and end-stage renal disease. "We are honored to work with Gold Kidney to bring outstanding, personalized care to patients in Arizona," said Jim Brown, CEO, of Prospect Medical Systems. "This partnership is going to help those struggling with chronic conditions by providing care they can be confident in." With over 450,000 members and 19 IPAs in Arizona, California, and Texas, Prospect has a proven record of experience in managing healthcare services. Focusing on high-quality care, Prospect, and its subsidiaries have earned an Elite Status from America's Physician Groups (APG) Standards of Excellence Survey yearly for the past decade and have been awarded a National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Accreditation for Population Health for their kidney disease and heart failure programs. This partnership will allow both healthcare companies to expand their footprint and ensure Arizona residents have access to a high-quality network of physicians. Gold Kidney Health Plan was created by over 100 nephrologists after years of treating and listening to their patients suffering from chronic diseases. Their objective has been - and continues to be - to provide the needed coverage for these patients, to provide renowned physician care, affordable treatments, and ease of mind when it comes to healthcare. With Gold Kidney, a team of experts collaborates to determine a personalized care plan to address each member's unique needs. The members can then choose from a wide network of physicians, including Prospect Medical's, for a primary care physician and a nephrologist. In addition, a nurse care manager will be directly assigned to help explain the members' coverage and provide additional knowledge. "We are excited to partner with Prospect Medical Group in caring for the underserved kidney patients today," said Dave Firdaus, CEO of Gold Kidney. "We believe this partnership will further promote Gold Kidney's mission to enhance the lives of our members through access to high-quality, affordable health care." About Prospect Medical Group Prospect Medical Group IPAs are managed by Prospect Medical Systems, a full-service management services organization that develops, implements, and manages a full range of support services. To learn more about Prospect or to select a primary care physician, visit www.prospectmedical.com. Media Contact: Gary Hopkins [email protected] About Gold Kidney of Arizona (Gold Kidney Health Plan) Gold Kidney of Arizona is a Medicare Advantage Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan with a Medicare contract to offer coverage to individuals diagnosed with Diabetes, Heart Failure, Cardiovascular Disease, and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). www.goldkidney.com Media Contact: Sandra Howe [email protected] SOURCE Gold Kidney Health Plan The global grey hydrogen market is driven by factors such as an increased commercial viability, growth in energy demand and industrial applications, rise in demand for hydrogen as alternative fuels, and rise in demand for hydrogen from the transportation sector PORTLAND, Ore., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Grey Hydrogen Market by Source (Natural Gas, Coal, Others), by Nature (Disposable, Reusable), by Production Method Steam Reformation, Gasification, and Others), by Application (Ammonia Production, Methanol Production, Refineries, Chemical Production, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the global grey hydrogen industry generated $131.8 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to generate $174.9 billion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 2.9% from 2023 to 2032. Request PDF Brochure: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/75071 Prime determinants of growth The global grey hydrogen market is driven by factors such as an increased commercial viability, growth in energy demand and industrial applications, rise in demand for hydrogen as alternative fuels, and rise in demand for hydrogen from the transportation sector. However, lack of policies and regulatory framework and rise in blue and green hydrogen demand restrains the market growth. On the contrary, flexibility of hydrogen leading to integration on site is expected to procide ample opportunities for the industry. Report coverage & details: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $131.8 billion Market Size in 2032 $174.9 billion CAGR 2.9 % No. of Pages in Report 400 Segments covered Source, Production Method, Application, and Region Drivers Increased commercial viability. Growth in energy demand and industrial applications. Rise in demand for hydrogen as alternative fuels. Rise in demand for hydrogen from the transportation sector. Opportunities Flexibility of hydrogen leading to integration on site. Restraints Lack of policies and regulatory framework. Rise in blue and green hydrogen demand. Covid-19 Scenario The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the global grey hydrogen market, owing to the temporary closure of feminine care manufacturing firms during the lockdown. Not only the production but also the sale of hydrogen was hampered across the world, especially in the initial period of the pandemic. Although the grey hydrogen industry faced losses, revenue was generated through sales on e-commerce websites, which aided in its recovery. The natural gas segment maintained its leadership status throughout the forecast period. Based on source, the natural gas segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than three-fifths of the global grey hydrogen market revenue, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. This segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 3.1% from 2023 to 2032, as it has comparatively lower carbon emissions. Procure Complete Report (400 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) @ https:/www.alliedmarketresearch.com/checkout-final/grey-hydrogen -market The steam reformation segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. Based on the production method, the steam reformation segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly three-fifths of the global grey hydrogen market, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period portraying the largest CAGR of 3.1% from 2023 to 2032.Steam reforming (SMR) is the most common method for producing grey hydrogen, which involves reacting natural gas with steam in the presence of a catalyst to produce hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The resulting mixture, known as synthesis gas or syngas, is then further processed to remove impurities and separate the hydrogen from the carbon monoxide. The ammonia production segment is expected to lead through the forecast period. Based on application, the refineries segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to nearly two-fifths of the global grey hydrogen market revenue. However, the ammonia production segment is projected to take the lead position during the forecast period and portray the largest CAGR of 3.2% from 2023 to 2032. For Purchase Inquiry: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/grey-hydrogen-market/purchase-options Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance throughout the forecast period. Based on region, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for nearly half of the global grey hydrogen market revenue, and is likely to dominate the market during the forecast period. The region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 3.1% from 2023 to 2032. The rise of grey hydrogen production in the region has increased, owing to the presence of high-potential markets such as India and China, this factor is expected to drive the growth of the grey hydrogen market. Leading Market Players: - Linde plc Air Liquide Orsted A/S Iberdrola SA Air Products & Chemicals, Inc. Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. Reliance Industries China National Petroleum Corporation Exxon Mobil Corporation Messer Group GmbH The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global grey hydrogen 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. Trending Reports in Hydrogen Industry (Book Now with 10% Discount): Hydrogen Generation Market: Global Opportunity Analysis, 2021-2031 Clean Hydrogen Market: Global Analysis and Forecast, 2023-2032 Blue Hydrogen Market: Global Opportunity Analysis and Forecast, 2022-2031 Green Hydrogen Market: Global Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2028 Hydrogen Energy Storage Market: Global Opportunity Analysis and Forecast, 2021-2028 Brown Hydrogen Market: Global Analysis and Industry Forecast by 2030 About us: Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain. We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry. Contact us: David Correa 5933 NE Win Sivers Drive #205, Portland, OR 97220 United States USA/Canada (Toll Free): +1-800-792-5285, +1-503-894-6022 UK: +44-845-528-1300 Hong Kong: +852-301-84916 India (Pune): +91-20-66346060 Fax: +1(855)550-5975 [email protected] Web: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/reports-store/energy-and-power Follow Us on Blog: https://www.marketinshort.com/ Follow Us on | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/636519/3950895/Allied_Market_Research_Logo.jpg SOURCE Allied Market Research Tech24 Completes Sixteenth Add-on Acquisition GREENVILLE, S.C., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tech24, backed by HCI Equity Partners, today announced that it acquired Total Mechanical Repair Services ("TMR" or the "Company") on May 24, 2023. Tech24 is a national provider of repair and maintenance services for foodservice and commercial HVAC equipment, and TMR is its sixteenth add-on acquisition in the highly fragmented foodservice repair and maintenance market. Financial terms were not disclosed. TMR, based in Brookhaven, Mississippi, is a provider of repair services, preventative maintenance and installation for commercial kitchens, serving Southern Mississippi and Louisiana. The Company specializes in servicing hot and cold side equipment and HVAC repair, primarily in restaurants and convenience stores. TMR is a complementary acquisition to TEMCO, a previous add-on acquisition completed by Tech24 based in Jackson, MS. The acquisition allows Tech24 to expand its market reach in Mississippi and provide access to the adjacent and unpenetrated market of Louisiana. Tech24's CEO, Dan Rodstrom, said, "The Tech24 family is growing rapidly, and we are excited to continue this momentum with the addition of TMR. The Company brings blue-chip customers and broad capabilities to the underserved market of Louisiana. We look forward to working alongside Brian Johnson, TMR's owner, and the entire team as part of the larger Tech24 organization." "Tech24 continues to be a great example of how HCI's consolidation and investment strategy works to transform our businesses in fragmented markets, like the foodservice repair and maintenance market" said Doug McCormick, Managing Partner at HCI. "Expanding our presence in the South has been a key goal for Tech24 and we see TMR as a terrific partner to help us achieve this." Quarles and Brady served as legal counsel to Tech24. About HCI Equity Partners HCI Equity Partners is a lower market private equity firm focused on partnering with family and founder-owned distribution, manufacturing and service companies. HCI is headquartered in Washington, DC. For more information, please visit www.hciequity.com. Contacts: Kelsey Clute, VP, Director of Communications, HCI [email protected] Megan Bowman, Lambert [email protected] SOURCE HCI Equity Partners Former CTO of Wunderman Thompson and Gorilla Group joins the independent digital customer experience company to expand its CX transformation capabilities. NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hero Digital, a leading independent digital customer experience company, has appointed industry veteran Chris Kostakis as Chief Technology Officer to lead the company's future technology vision and capabilities. With two decades of experience in the digital customer experience and commerce technology space, Kostakis is a proven leader in leveraging technology-driven strategies and capabilities for high-growth businesses through digital experience, commerce, and marketing transformation. As the chief technology officer, Kostakis will oversee Hero Digital's technology capabilities and solutions that include capability and talent development; creation of value-add technology assets; strategic partnership roadmap; and the company's global technology delivery operations. "Throughout his career, Chris has been admired as a transformational leader by industry peers. As technological innovation and digital transformation continue to fuel change across entire companies and industries, we're at a pivotal point in our business where having a CTO of Chris' caliber and experience is integral for the creation of value for our clients," said Jay Dettling, CEO of Hero Digital. "His extensive experience in architecture and systems design, software-based business expansion, and business process improvement make him the ideal leader to guide our technology teams in generating successful digital transformations for our clients." Prior to joining Hero Digital, Kostakis served as the CTO for Wunderman Thompson and Gorilla Group, where he worked with a variety of clients, including such business models as B2B, B2C, B2B2C, MLM, and Marketplaces, to create award-winning digital and commerce experiences that bridged strategy, digital experience, customer intelligence, and technology. Kostakis was also formerly with Accenture Interactive where he led a team responsible for delivering commerce solutions for a wide variety of Fortune 500 clients. "I am thrilled to join Hero Digital's team of digital customer experience leaders and problem solvers, and to be part of a company that is pushing boundaries when it comes to digital experience and commerce solutions," said Kostakis. "As customer experience and digital transformation continue to remain at the forefront of our clients' business objectives, it is my goal to ensure Hero Digital remains the leader in creating and delivering modern technological solutions that enable transformational growth for our clients." Kostakis has served in an advisory capacity to several organizations including SAP Commerce, Adobe Commerce, and Bloomreach, and has worked with brands including Honda, Sherwin-Williams, Cargill, Specialized, Cornerstone Building Brands, Helen of Troy, M&Ms, Belk, Oakley, and Coca-Cola. Hero Digital is rapidly growing and continues to amass industry recognition for its work with Fortune 1000 companies. Earlier this year, Jay Dettling, former Accenture and Adobe executive was appointed CEO. Additionally, the company was honored as Adobe's Digital Experience Emerging Partner of the Year, received Optimizely's Digital Experience Solution Partner of the Year Award, and was included within the list of The San Francisco Business Times' 100 Fastest Growing Private Companies. About Hero Digital Hero Digital is a leading independent customer experience company that transforms businesses by reimagining the complete digital customer experience. The company's blended teams help Fortune 1000 companies like Comcast, U.S. Bank, Salesforce, Cedar Sinai, LPGA, and TD Ameritrade Institutional innovate, design, and build smart digital ecosystems that unlock new opportunity, drive digital growth, and create customer loyalty. To work with Hero Digital or learn more, visit www.herodigital.com. Media Contact Information Mattie Van Gundy, Account Supervisor [email protected] 713.409.1835 SOURCE Hero Digital Jesus said: "Yes, if you forgive others their failings, your heavenly Father will forgive you yours; but if you do not forgive others, your Father will not forgive your failings either." Matthew, chapter 6, verses 14 15 Angered that a restorative justice program seeks to educate and spread understanding, and desiring more punishment for the Native Americans who defaced the statue of a "Saint" known for his atrocities some Catholic folks refuse to forgive. On October 20th, 2020, in recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day, some Indigenous people tore down and defaced a statue of Father Junipero Serra. The 18th-century priest is known for his role in the mandatory conversion of native peoples to Catholicism and is accused of rape, murder, and other abuses against the converts. 35-40 years ago, as a student in a California public school, we were taught he was a wonderful person, and none of the terrible or unsavory elements of the Mission system were discussed. It seems clear why folks are upset about statues honoring Serra, and rather than "lock them up" the County subject the demonstrators to a system of restorative justice. Understanding of why the crime occurred, discussion amongst the community to help educate and prevent the situation from rising again, and community service to make amends are the program instead of incarceration. Many protestors considering themselves "practicing Catholics," gathered in Marin County, California, to protest what they see as too lenient a punishment. Marin IJ: Bids Due June 15, 2023; Auction To Be Held June 21, 2023 NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hilco Streambank announced it is seeking offers to acquire the intangible assets associated with bulk-quantity consumable products e-commerce retailer Boxed*com. The assets for sale include its domain name, customer data, trademarks including private label brand Prince & Spring, social media accounts, and related assets. Bids are due on or before June 15, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. (ET), and an auction will be conducted on June 21, 2023. There is an opportunity to serve as a "stalking horse" bidder. Founded in 2013, Boxed provided B2C and B2B customers with direct delivery of bulk pantry household and office essentials without the requirement of a membership or subscription fee. Gross Merchandise Value ("GMV") totaled $189 million in 2022. In addition to the nationally recognized branded products, Boxed.com developed and cultivated its own unique, loyalty-building private label brand, "Prince & Spring", which generated approximately $25 million in GMV. Hilco Streambank Senior Vice President Richelle Kalnit commented, "Boxed resonates with both business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) customers, offering them the convenience of bulk household essentials delivered to their door, without a membership fee." Kalnit continued, "This offering resonated so deeply with the customer that the brand recently expanded to offer a B2C premium subscription loyalty program, BoxedUp, garnering approximately 32,000 members and generating $21M in GMV in 2022. Coupled with its one-hour delivery service, Boxed Market, the company's intangible assets position a buyer favorably for growth." Interested parties should click here for additional information or contact Hilco Streambank directly. The sale of the assets will take place in the context of the company's chapter 11 bankruptcy proceeding and is subject to bankruptcy court approval. The sale of the Boxed.com domain name is subject to definitive documentation. About Hilco Streambank: Hilco Streambank is a market-leading advisory firm specializing in intellectual property disposition and valuation. Having completed numerous transactions, including sales in publicly reported transactions, private transactions, and online sales through IPv4.Global , Hilco Streambank has established itself as the premier intermediary in the consumer brand, internet, and telecom communities. Hilco Streambank is part of Northbrook, Illinois-based Hilco Global , the world's leading authority on maximizing the value of business assets by delivering valuation, monetization, and advisory solutions to an international marketplace. Hilco Global operates more than twenty specialized business units offering services that include asset valuation and appraisal, retail and industrial inventory acquisition and disposition, real estate, and strategic capital equity investments. SOURCE Hilco Streambank The ESA- and EC-supported EAGLE-1 LEO satellite will be equipped with innovative security features developed by ID Quantique and TESAT, Europe's leading laser communication technology company GENEVA, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ID Quantique (IDQ), the leader in quantum-safe security solutions, is proud to announce its participation in the EAGLE-1 initiative. EAGLE-1 is a QKD (Quantum Key Distribution) system integrating both space and ground segments that will deliver secure transmission of encryption keys across geographically dispersed areas and demonstrate the connection from space of EU's national quantum communications infrastructures for truly sovereign networks. EAGLE-1 is developed by a consortium of 20 European organisations led by SES and funded, in part, by the European Space Agency and the European Commission. For its part, IDQ will contribute to the development of a space-qualified cryptographic key generation system based on IDQ's quantum random number generator (QRNG) technology to TESAT, EAGLE-1 consortium member and Europe's leading laser communication technology company. Eagle1 QKD Initiative TESAT will manufacture the QKD payload comprising the Scalable Optical Terminal SCOT80 to establish a secure optical link from space to ground, as well as the QKD module of the satellite. To deliver the payload, TESAT selected ID Quantique to contribute to the design and delivery of a space-qualified cryptographic key generation system based on IDQ's Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) chipsets technology. The high-performance electronic board integrated into the EAGLE-1 QKD payload will generate the random key material that will be further transmitted by the satellite to the ground stations. The technology integrated into the EAGLE-1 system will include built-in redundancy and is specifically designed to be associated with the satellite communications and data transmission for such areas as government, telco operators, cloud providers and banking, to add guaranteed security of the cryptographic applications. "We are delighted to bring our expertise in integrating secure technologies, and a track record of almost 80,000 executed optical satellite links for the benefit of this highly-important and timely European project," said Thomas Reinartz, CEO of TESAT. "The EAGLE-1 system allows for achieving synergies together with leading industry partners, reducing time to service and to market for the quantum secure technologies and its future key users, such as governments and institutions, or banking sector. Together with ID Quantique, we are looking forward to strengthen European collaboration and contributing to European sovereignty in space." "Ensuring that communications remain safe is increasingly vital, and even more so with the rapidly-emerging technology of quantum computing," said Gregoire Ribordy, CEO of ID Quantique. "We are delighted to join this project, by providing our QRNG chipsets and space-qualified electronics that will enable the security of the QKD satellite, and allow the EU Member States to leverage the most innovative technology for development of secure and sovereign networks." About EAGLE-1 The EAGLE-1 project comprising satellite and ground infrastructure is developed by SES and its consortium of 20 European partners, and is co-funded by the ESA contribution of Germany, Luxembourg, Austria, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, and the Czech Republic under ARTES, as well as the European Commission through Horizon Europe. Once launched in 2024, the EAGLE-1 satellite will complete three years of in-orbit mission. During the operational phase, the satellite will allow European Union governments and institutions as well as critical business sectors early access to long-distance QKD that would pave the way towards an EU constellation enabling ultra-secure data transmissions. Learn more about EAGLE-1 and SES-led consortium of European partners here. About ID Quantique Founded in 2001 as a spin-off of the Group of Applied Physics of the University of Geneva, ID Quantique is the world leader in quantum-safe crypto solutions, designed to protect data for the future. The company provides quantum-safe network encryption, secure quantum key generation and Quantum Key Distribution solutions and services to the financial industry, enterprises and government organizations globally. IDQ's quantum random number generator has been validated according to global standards and independent agencies, and is the reference in highly regulated and mission critical industries such as security, encryption, critical infrastructure and IoT where trust is paramount. Additionally, IDQ is a leading provider of optical instrumentation products, most notably photon counters and related electronics. The company's innovative photonic solutions are used in both commercial and research applications. IDQ's products are used by government, enterprise and academic customers in more than 60 countries and on every continent. IDQ is proud of its independence and neutrality, and believes in establishing long-term and trusted relationships with its customers and partners. For more information, please visit www.idquantique.com. Contact info For ID Quantique: Catherine Simondi VP Marketing & Communications [email protected] or +41 (0) 22 301 83 71 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089812/Eagle1_QKD_Initiative.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089811/IDQ_Logo.jpg SOURCE ID Quantique SA Businesses and Individuals Poised to Secure the Future of Online Real Estate with Exclusive Short-Character SLDs AUSTIN, Texas, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In a groundbreaking industry-first announcement, Identity Digital , a leader in connecting the online world with domain names and related technologies, unveils nearly 50,000 high-value short-character premium domains at NamesCon Global. This exclusive release of previously reserved domains empowers businesses and individuals to claim the future of online real estate, offering a unique opportunity to secure highly sought-after one, two, and three-character Second Level Domains (SLDs). Identity Digital will also feature key speakers at the event, presenting on various industry topics. Professional using .pro domain Identity Digital Sample Inventory Top Premium Releases 2023 The Early Access Phase (EAP) launch for these premium domains is scheduled for July 11th, providing a unique opportunity for interested individuals to access the names available through participating registrars. The General Availability (GA) launch will follow on July 18th, opening up these high-demand domains to a broader audience. For the first time, Identity Digital is making available nearly 50,000 premium domains that have never been released before. These domains include one, two, and three-character SLDs across 263 extensions, such as .pro, .fund, .live, and .bio. Of particular significance is the release of .pro premiums, as the .pro top-level domain (TLD) experienced an impressive 40% year-over-year growth in registrations from 2021 to 2022. Examples of the highly valuable .pro TLDs offered, such as ai.pro, tax.pro, e.pro, nft.pro, and us.pro, showcase the significant benefits of incorporating a specific industry or profession on the left side of the dot and the .pro TLD on the right side. This powerful combination enables businesses to establish a strong online presence, enhance brand recognition, and instantly communicate their expertise to customers and clients. With their limited character count and unique nature, these exclusive domains offer a rare opportunity to secure a highly relevant and impactful digital identity, ensuring a competitive edge in the online marketplace. Identity Digital Chief Revenue Officer Matt Overman expressed excitement about this release. "We are thrilled to offer these premium domains to individuals and businesses looking to secure high-value digital real estate. It is incredibly rare for a 20-year old TLD such as .pro to offer previously unavailable one and two-character domains. With their uniqueness and limited availability, these domains present an incredible opportunity for growth and investment in the ever-expanding digital landscape." In addition to the domain release, Identity Digital actively participates in NamesCon Global, featuring industry experts sharing their expertise: Senior Director of Channel Management Mariah Reilly will deliver a presentation that answers the question 'Is the Domain Name the Real Blue Checkmark?' on May 31 , 3:50-4:35 PM . will deliver a presentation that answers the question 'Is the Domain Name the Real Blue Checkmark?' on , . Chief Revenue Officer Matt Overman will join a panel discussion on new TLDs with representatives from .hiphop and .art on June 1 , 12:00-12:30 PM . will join a panel discussion on new TLDs with representatives from .hiphop and .art on , . Chief Marketing Officer Rachel Sterling will participate in a panel discussing 'The Rise of Digital ID: Game Changer for the Entire Domain Industry' alongside industry leaders from IT.com on June 2 , 11:00-11:45 AM . To obtain more information about these premium domains or explore the available solutions, interested parties can contact Identity Digital at [email protected] . About NamesCon Global NamesCon Global is the premier event for the domain name industry, providing a platform for industry professionals to gather and advance the field. NamesCon Global 2023 will occur from May 31 to June 3, 2023, in Austin, Texas. For more information, please visit https://namescon.com/ About Identity Digital Identity Digital Inc. simplifies and connects the online world with domain names and related technologies to empower people to build, market, and own their authentic digital identities. With the world's largest portfolio of nearly 300 TLDs such as .photography, .studio, .live, .technology, and .restaurant, Identity Digital supports around 25 million domains on its innovative registry services platform. In addition, Identity Digital enables customers to discover, register, support and use high-quality domain names with its registrar, Name.com . Headquartered in Bellevue, WA, Identity Digital is a global company with approximately 250 employees. For more information, please visit identity.digital. Contact Sacha Arts Bella Vista Communications (408) 458.6316 [email protected] SOURCE Identity Digital, Inc. Info-Tech LIVE provides attendees with practical insights to drive technology-led transformations, impact business outcomes, and accelerate their professional careers. The first round of anticipated speakers for the September conference has been announced. TORONTO, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Global IT research and advisory firm Info-Tech Research Group has announced some of the highly anticipated keynote speakers who will be headlining its annual three-day conference, Info-Tech LIVE. The event, set to take place September 19 to 21, 2023, will be hosted at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. Info-Tech LIVE 2023 will be hosted at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas from September 19 to 21, 2023. (CNW Group/Info-Tech Research Group) Info-Tech LIVE is designed for IT executives who make technology decisions, influence the institutional adoption of technology, and drive innovation. The agenda includes prominent industry speakers, case studies, workshops, and engaging and informative one-on-one sessions with research analysts. "We are thrilled to bring together an extraordinary lineup of keynote speakers. These individuals represent the pinnacle of expertise in their respective fields," says Gord Harrison, senior vice president of research and advisory at Info-Tech Research Group. "This year's attendees will be immersed in an environment where ideas and connections thrive, where innovation takes center stage, and where the impact of AI and exponential IT will be fully explored." Special Keynote Speakers for LIVE 2023: Geoffrey Hinton Godfather of AI and Deep Learning Pioneer An icon in the field of artificial intelligence, Geoffrey Hinton has been instrumental in shaping the way we understand and implement deep learning today. His pioneering work in neural networks led to a paradigm shift in the field of machine learning, and his later research helped launch the modern era of deep learning. His awards include the David E. Rumelhart Prize, the IJCAI Award for Research Excellence, the Killam Prize for Engineering, the IEEE Frank Rosenblatt Medal, the NSERC Herzberg Gold Medal, the IEEE James Clerk Maxwell Gold Medal, the NEC C&C Prize, the BBVA Frontiers of Knowledge Award, the Honda Prize, and the Turing Award, the highest honor in computer science. Hinton is currently a professor emeritus at the University of Toronto, Department of Computer Science. Janelle Shane Research Scientist, Author, and 2019 Ted Fellow Janelle Shane's AI humor blog, AIweirdness.com, looks at the strange side of artificial intelligence. She has been featured in the New York Times, The Atlantic, WIRED, Popular Science, All Things Considered, and Slate. In 2019, she was named one of Fast Company's 100 Most Creative People in Business. Her TED talk, "The Danger of AI is Weirder Than You Think," is a funny and insightful look at the nature of machine learning algorithms. Her book, You Look Like a Thing and I Love You: How AI Works and Why It's Making the World a Weirder Place, uses cartoons and humorous pop-culture experiments to look inside the minds of the algorithms that run our world, making artificial intelligence and machine learning accessible and entertaining. Shane received her BS in Electrical Engineering from Michigan State University, her MPhil in Physics from the University of St. Andrews, and her PhD from the University of California San Diego. Ray Kurzweil Bestselling Author, Pioneering Inventor, and Futurist Ray Kurzweil is one of the world's leading inventors, thinkers, and futurists, with a 30-year track record of accurate predictions. Called "the restless genius" by The Wall Street Journal and "the ultimate thinking machine" by Forbes magazine, he was named one of the top entrepreneurs by Inc. magazine, which described him as the "rightful heir to Thomas Edison." PBS selected him as one of the "sixteen revolutionaries who made America." Ray received a Grammy Award for outstanding achievements in music technology; he is the recipient of the National Medal of Technology, was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, holds 21 honorary doctorates, and has honors from three US presidents. He is a co-founder of Singularity University and a principal researcher at Google, where he is their "AI Visionary" looking at the long-term implications of technology and society. Chris Barton Founder and Creator of Shazam, Entrepreneur, Inventor, and Tech Investor. Chris Barton's best-known creation is Shazam, the app that changed the way the world discovers music. The app lets people identify songs out of thin air from anywhere they are nothing short of pure magic. With over 2 billion downloads, Shazam is a global phenomenon and Apple's sixth-largest acquisition. Barton holds 12 patents and played key roles in the early days of Google and Dropbox. He believes his dyslexia helps him uncover novel solutions to obstacles and achieve audacious goals. In his speeches, Barton shares his "Start From Zero" thinking method of questioning assumptions and challenging conventional wisdom. His remarkable storytelling captivates audiences and inspires them to make big things happen in their organizations. Mark Anderson Chief Executive Officer, Strategic News Service & Info-Tech Research Fellow Mark Anderson is an Info-Tech Research Fellow, the founding CEO of startup Pattern Computer Inc., and the chair of the Future in Review (FiRE) conference. Anderson is also the founder and chair of Strategic News Service and publisher of the weekly SNS Global Report on Technology and the Economy, read by Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Michael Dell, Jeff Bezos, and other technology executives and investors worldwide. Rob Meikle Info-Tech Consultant and Speaker, Former CIO of the City of Toronto A former CIO at the City of Toronto and professional public speaker, Rob Meikle is an inspirational leader and collaborator with deep experience delivering strategic technology solutions that transform and simplify business processes while providing measurable results to improve the customer and end-user experience. Charl Lombard Executive Consultant President of Info-Tech's Digital Transformation Consulting practice, Charl Lombard has 20 years of management consulting and advisory experience serving CEOs, executive teams, and boards of directors on topics of strategy and transformation. "At Info-Tech 2023, attendees will have unprecedented access to groundbreaking insights and research to navigate some of the most remarkable opportunities of our time," adds Harrison. "We look forward to welcoming all of our speakers, partners, and participants to Las Vegas in September." The theme of LIVE 2023 will be "Exponential IT," focusing on three key topics Operational Excellence, Digital Transformation and Innovation, and Leading Through Change. With over 160 sessions, more than 11 renowned speakers, 20 technology keynotes, and sessions dedicated to a Women in IT track, LIVE 2023 is set to be the biggest in the firm's history. IT leaders and professionals interested in attending can visit Info-Tech's events page to learn more or to reserve a seat for Info-Tech LIVE in Las Vegas. Media interested in attending can contact [email protected] Updates and new details about speakers, agendas, and exclusive event experiences can be found via LinkedIn and Twitter over the coming months. About Info-Tech Research Group Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world's leading information technology research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT professionals. The company produces unbiased and highly relevant research to help CIOs and IT leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For 25 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with IT teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations. Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and over 200 IT and industry analysts through the firm's Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact [email protected]. SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group Children's Collaborative for Healing and Support announces additional $1 million investment from the New York Life Foundation to kickstart Utah initiative SALT LAKE CITY, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A first-of-its-kind initiative built on community partnerships to identify and support children coping with the death of a loved one, has launched in Salt Lake City. The Children's Collaborative for Healing and Support, in partnership with the New York Life Foundation, works with local partners to identify and connect children who are grieving the death of a parent or caregiver to resources to help them cope and continue to live healthy, fulfilled lives. First-of-its-kind initiative to identify and support children coping with the death of a loved one announced in Utah. Tweet this Leaders from Children's Collaborative for Healing and Support and New York Life Foundation join local and state community officials, including Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox to announce a first-of-its-kind initiative built on community partnerships to identify and support children coping with the death of a loved one. Utah Governor Spencer Cox joined local and national partners on Thursday to announce the initiative and show his support for the impact it will have on Utah children and families. "Utah is uniquely positioned to launch this program that helps Utah kids who are suffering unbelievable loss," said Utah Governor Spencer Cox. "In Utah, we care about one another and step up to help where we can. We are also committed to making data-informed decisions for the best possible outcomes. With the Utah Children's Collaborative, we use our strengths to come together and help the kids who need it the most." The Utah Children's Collaborative launches with two approaches for data collection to identify bereaved children and connect them to support services. First, the program is working with Gardner Policy Institute to match birth records with death records of those who have children under 18 years-old. The Children's Collaborative is also working with Granite School District to begin to understand which children in their schools are suffering the hardships associated with the death of a parent or caregiver. The Children's Collaborative for Healing and Support initially focused on the 340,000 children nationwide who have lost a parent or caregiver to COVID-19 as part of the long-established COVID Collaborative. It is now expanding to support all grieving children, no matter the cause of death. John Bridgeland is the co-founder and CEO of the COVID Collaborative, spearheading the Children's Collaborative. Bridgeland says Utah is ideal for launching the pilot program because of already existing support services and a collective belief in gathering and using data for sound decision-making. "While the country has moved on from the COVID-19 pandemic, there is an urgent need to help those children who have lost a parent or other caregiver to COVID-19 or other causes. Supporting these children, who are a group with the least capacity to understand and cope with such staggering loss, in the years ahead is a moral imperative. The Children's Collaborative seeks to build sustainable, scalable systems to help these children cope with their loss and navigate toward a successful future," said Bridgeland. Financial and community support are coming together to launch the Children's Collaborative in Utah. Today, the New York Life Foundation announced a $1 million grant to the Children's Collaborative, bringing their total investment for both the COVID and children's collaboratives to $2.25 million. "The New York Life Foundation has invested more than $70 million to support bereaved children in the last 12 years. We are always looking to partner with organizations with innovative programs that respond to the needs of children grieving the death of a caregiver. The Children's Collaborative use of data and community partnerships is a formula that we believe will yield positive results in the lives of grieving children. We thank the State of Utah for leading the way and are proud to be a lead partner of this initiative," said Heather Nesle, president of the New York Life Foundation. The Granite School District is taking Children's Collaborative action to help grieving students in their district. For the first time, when families submit back-to-school paperwork this year, they will have the option to respond to a question on whether the student recently experienced the death of a caregiver or sibling. Knowing which kids are dealing with a caregiver's death is the first step in connecting them to resources. "We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate on enhanced services and supports for this vulnerable population of students," said Dr. Nye. Granite School District teachers and administrators will also participate in the New York Life's Grief-Sensitive Schools Initiative to be better equipped to help bereaved kids and families. The New York Life Foundation reports that 92 percent of educators nationwide say they would benefit from bereavement training to better support students, yet only 15% of educators stated they received any specific training on the subject of childhood bereavement. Dr. Nye says he's looking forward to empowering Granite School District educators with this valuable training. "The Utah launch is the first step in our mission to expand the Children's Collaborative for Healing and Support across the nation," said Catherine Jaynes, CEO of the Children's Collaborative for Healing and Support. "Our efforts here will help thousands of Utah children and those who care for them, including family members, teachers, and their larger support systems and will inform how we bring such efforts to other communities and states." More on the Children's Collaborative can be found on the website childrenscollaborative.us . About the Children's Collaborative for Healing and Support The Children's Collaborative is an initiative that started in 2022 to honor the stories of children that have lost a caregiver to COVID-19 and provide resources to help them and their families as they rebuild and look to the future. Today, the collaborative works to support all families that have experienced the loss of a parent or caregiver. We're bringing together community organizations, grief groups, government resources, and more to surround these families with a comprehensive network of support. By strengthening the system to support these children and families, we will be helping all children and families who have experienced loss. The Children's Collaborative for Healing and Support is Chaired by John Bridgeland, Co-Founder & CEO of the COVID Collaborative, and led by CEO Catherine Jaynes. Media contact: Jennifer Harris [email protected] 512-773-7168 SOURCE Children's Collaborative for Healing and Support AUBURN HILLS, Mich., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Coinciding with National Autonomous Vehicle Day in the USA, the Jeep brand is providing a glimpse of its future-generation, advanced, off-road driving technology. See the video here: https://youtu.be/auAZh_WZsTo The Jeep brand tests in Moab, Utah, the latest prototypes of autonomous off-road driving technology, installed in two electrified Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe models. In Moab, Utah, a team led by Neda Cvijetic, head of AI & autonomous driving at Stellantis, tested the latest prototypes of automated off-road driving technology being exclusively developed for the Jeep brand. Installed in two electrified Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe models, this AI and autonomous off-road driving technology can enhance the experiences of seasoned off-roaders, as well of customers who are new to driving the trail. This technology will also help Jeep SUV owners in challenging everyday driving conditions. Jeep brand is at the forefront of developing automated off-road driving technology, alongside its growing leadership in off-road electrification with its expanding range of 4xe SUVs. "In the same way that our 4xe electrification takes Jeep brand's off-road capability to new heights, these advanced off-road driving systems will help more customers in more countries around world join and enjoy the adventure. These features and technology will have real-life applications on and off the trail in a wide range of driving conditions," said Christian Meunier, Jeep brand CEO. Jeep brand will release a full video showcasing the future generation of its advanced autonomous off-road driving technology this summer. Jeep Brand Built on more than 80 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV brand that brings capability, craftsmanship and versatility to people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a broad portfolio of vehicles that continues to provide owners with a sense of safety and security to handle any journey with confidence. The Jeep vehicle range consists of the Cherokee, Compass, Gladiator, Grand Cherokee, new three-row Grand Cherokee L, Grand Cherokee 4xe, Renegade and Wrangler and Wrangler 4xe. Jeep Wave, a premium owner loyalty and customer care program that is available to the entire Jeep 4x4 lineup, is filled with benefits and exclusive perks to deliver Jeep brand owners the utmost care and dedicated 24/7 support. The legendary Jeep brand's off-road capability is enhanced by a global electrification initiative that is transforming 4xe into new 4x4 in pursuit of the brand's vision of accomplishing Zero Emission Freedom. All Jeep brand vehicles will offer an electrified variant by 2025. Follow Jeep and company news and video on: Company blog: http://blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com Media website: http://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com Jeep brand: www.jeep.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/jeep Instagram: www.instagram.com/jeep Twitter: www.twitter.com/jeep LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/jeep YouTube: www.youtube.com/thejeepchannel or https://www.youtube.com/StellantisNA For more information, please visit the Stellantis media site for North America at https://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com. SOURCE Stellantis BOSTON, MA, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund (NYSE: HTD) (the "Fund"), a closed-end fund managed by John Hancock Investment Management LLC and subadvised by Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC, announced today sources of its monthly distribution of $0.1380 per share paid to all shareholders of record as of May 11, 2023, pursuant to the Fund's managed distribution plan. This press release is issued as required by an exemptive order granted to the Fund by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Notification of Sources of Distribution This notice provides shareholders of the John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund (NYSE: HTD) with important information concerning the distribution declared on May 1, 2023, and payable on May 31, 2023. No action is required on your part. Distribution Period: May 2023 Distribution Amount Per Common Share: $0.1380 The following table sets forth the estimated sources of the current distribution, payable May 31, 2023, and the cumulative distributions paid this fiscal year to date from the following sources: net investment income; net realized short term capital gains; net realized long term capital gains; and return of capital or other capital source. All amounts are expressed on a per common share basis and as a percentage of the distribution amount. For the period 05/1/2023-05/31/2023 For the fiscal year-to-date period 11/1/2022-05/31/2023 [1] Source Current Distribution ($) % Breakdown of the Current Distribution Total Cumulative Distributions ($) % Breakdown of the Total Cumulative Distributions Net Investment Income 0.1076 78 % 0.5601 58 % Net Realized Short- Term Capital Gains 0.0000 0 % 0.0000 0 % Net Realized Long- Term Capital Gains 0.0000 0 % 0.0000 0 % Return of Capital or Other Capital Source 0.0304 22 % 0.4058 42 % Total per common share 0.1380 100 % 0.9659 100 % Average annual total return (in relation to NAV) for the 5 years ended on April 30, 2023 6.18 % Annualized current distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of April 30, 2023 7.44 % Cumulative total return (in relation to NAV) for the fiscal year through April 30, 2023 1.72 % Cumulative fiscal year-to-date distribution rate expressed as a percentage of NAV as of April 30, 2023 4.34 % __________ 1 The Fund's current fiscal year began on November 1, 2022 and will end on October 31, 2023. You should not draw any conclusions about the Fund's investment performance from the amount of this distribution or from the terms of the Fund's managed distribution plan. The Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the money that you invested in the Fund is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with "yield" or "income." The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this Notice are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the remainder of its fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. The Fund has declared the May 2023 distribution pursuant to the Fund's managed distribution plan (the "Plan"). Under the Plan, the Fund makes fixed monthly distributions in the amount of $0.1380 per share, which will continue to be paid monthly until further notice. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact your financial professional or call the John Hancock Investment Management Closed-End Fund Information Line at 1-800-843-0090, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Eastern Time. Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined by the United States securities laws. You should exercise caution in interpreting and relying on forward-looking statements because they are subject to uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Fund's control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. An investor should consider a Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. About John Hancock Investment Management A company of Manulife Investment Management, we serve investors through a unique multimanager approach, complementing our extensive in-house capabilities with an unrivaled network of specialized asset managers, backed by some of the most rigorous investment oversight in the industry. The result is a diverse lineup of time-tested investments from a premier asset manager with a heritage of financial stewardship. About Manulife Investment Management Manulife Investment Management is the global brand for the global wealth and asset management segment of Manulife Financial Corporation. We draw on more than a century of financial stewardship and the full resources of our parent company to serve individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. Headquartered in Toronto, our leading capabilities in public and private markets are strengthened by an investment footprint that spans 18 geographies. We complement these capabilities by providing access to a network of unaffiliated asset managers from around the world. We're committed to investing responsibly across our businesses. We develop innovative global frameworks for sustainable investing, collaboratively engage with companies in our securities portfolios, and maintain a high standard of stewardship where we own and operate assets, and we believe in supporting financial well-being through our workplace retirement plans. Today, plan sponsors around the world rely on our retirement plan administration and investment expertise to help their employees plan for, save for, and live a better retirement. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com. SOURCE John Hancock Investment Management WARREN, Mich., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TS4U, a leading institute of IT engineering boot camps, is thrilled to announce its accreditation by the State of Michigan. This accreditation validates TS4U's commitment to delivering high-quality project-centric IT boot camps and career transformation opportunities for individuals without an IT background. Join June 03 Webinar to learn how you can change your career! https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__b8wLyIgTEiVwK6f3c9g3w#/registration TS4U has successfully empowered hundreds of individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic to transition into the IT industry, enabling them to break free from low-wage jobs and embark on lucrative careers. TS4U offers a range of exceptional boot camps. Explore the benefits and opportunities below. Why TS4U? We provide the following industry high demand IT industry boot camps: Eligible for grants from Michigan Works! Job Success rate: 85% to 95% Student commitment: 30 to 40 hours per week We provide a Two-Week Free Trial Enjoy income-driven payment options Affordable student loans Core program length: 6 months Extensive interview preparation, mock interview, group interview, resume prep, JD screening, and more! Talk to us for your free career development plan TS4U proudly supports the community with FREE MONTHLY courses on the following subjects: In addition to the accreditation, TS4U is headquartered in Michigan; our office is next to the Cadillac Global Headquarters and across the GM Technical Center. This strategic move strengthens TS4U's presence and dedication to the local community. We are hosting a FREE webinar on the highly anticipated July Bootcamp by TS4U. The webinar scheduled for June 3, 2023, will provide an exclusive sneak peek into the TS4U July Bootcamp, a comprehensive program designed to equip participants with in-demand tech skills and kickstart their careers. With a focus on practical training and hands-on experience, this bootcamp promises to be a game-changer for aspiring tech professionals. Below are the following topics that will be covered in the webinar: Become a Software Test Automation Engineer Become a Vehicle Validation Engineer TS4U's Bootcamps (All courses) Sign up for a trial and enjoy two free weeks Enrollment process and procedure Payment and fees Non-refundable deposit before enrollment Pay after you get a job Student loans Review the Michigan Residents FREE funding eligibility flow Software Test Automation Engineer (Java and Selenium WebDriver) Software Test Automation Engineer (JavaScripts Cypress) Vehicle Validation Engineer Q&A TS4U is offering some amazing discounts for attending the webinar, such as: $99 off towards webinar participation when enrolling in a bootcamp off towards webinar participation when enrolling in a bootcamp Enroll on June 03, 2023 , for an extra $99 off , for an extra off Enjoy $150 off as a Computer Science graduate off as a Computer Science graduate Get $150 off from any IT experience off from any IT experience Refer friends and family and get $150 Pay in full during the enrollment period to receive 10% off the entire bootcamp Pay half of the fees during the enrollment period to receive 5% off the entire bootcamp cost Register Now: https://ts4u.us/link/payaftergettingajob Founder Shiblu's statement: "Our mission at TS4U is to teach complex IT software development so that non-technical individuals can understand and change their career to IT. We teach our students using a 'learning by doing' methodology, focusing on practical application development that we develop for our clients to use modern tools and technologies and provide a corporate-centric environment. Regardless of race or religion, TS4U welcomes individuals from all backgrounds to join their boot camps and experience the company's outstanding support and expertise. TS4U is excited to contribute to the local community and invites interested individuals, recent graduates, immigrants, and foreign graduates to contact us. We want to allow everyone to join our webinars before a student decides. Before we start our July Bootcamps, we are going to do webinars on the following dates to cover each boot camp that we provide and also answer questions from our students and audiences. Date Day and Time Boot camp Topic June 03, 2023 Saturday, 1:00 pm EST Software Test Automation Engineer Vehicle Validation Engineer June 10, 2023 Saturday, 1:00 pm EST AWS CloudOps Engineer June 17, 2023 Saturday, 1:00 pm EST MERN Stack (Full-Stack Web Development) June 24, 2023 Saturday, 1:00 pm EST Product Owner and invite everyone to join July Boot camp orientation Media Contact Company Name: TS4U IT Engineering Bootcamp Contact Person: TS4U Enrolment Team Email: [email protected] Phone: 5862767347 Address: 30500 Van Dyke Ave, Ste # 201 City: Warren State: Michigan 48093 Country: United States Google Map: TS4U IT Engineering Bootcamp Explore: https://ts4u.us/ SOURCE TS4U IT Engineering Bootcamp Dr. Punnonen joins Hinge Bio with over 20 years of experience as a biopharmaceutical executive and drug developer in the fields of oncology and immuno-oncology BURLINGAME, Calif., May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hinge Bio, Inc., a privately-held biotechnology company, today announced that Juha Punnonen, M.D., Ph.D. has joined the company as Chief Development Officer. Dr. Punnonen brings over 20 years of experience as a biopharmaceutical executive with a track record in building and managing R&D teams from early-stage research to development in oncology and immuno-oncology. He will lead Hinge Bio's preclinical and clinical strategy and development of product candidates generated by the company's GEM-DIMER technology. "We are thrilled to welcome Juha to Hinge Bio," said Barry Selick, Ph.D, Chief Executive Officer of Hinge Bio. "Juha brings a strong background in immuno-oncology therapeutics development with leadership experience in both large pharmaceutical as well as start-up biotech companies. His insights into the design of our oncology development candidates are already proving invaluable, and we look forward to advancing these candidates into the clinic." "I am excited to join Hinge Bio to advance GEM-DIMER candidates to development," said Dr. Punnonen. "GEM-DIMERs truly have the potential to bring antibodies to the next dimension by merging the most desirable properties of multiple clinically relevant antibodies into a single molecule with dramatically improved activity, while retaining the robust stability and manufacturability of conventional antibodies. I am looking forward to working with the Hinge team to advance our first oncology candidates to patients." Dr. Punnonen comes to Hinge Bio from Ascendis Pharma (ASND) where he served as Senior Vice President & Head of Oncology coordinating oncology research and pipeline development and advancing two immuno-oncology programs through preclinical research and IND-filings to clinical development. Prior to Ascendis, he was Executive Director and member of the Oncology Leadership Team at Merck & Co., Inc. where he coordinated oncology research and early development programs and was a member of the Product Development Team for KEYTRUDA External Collaborations and KEYTRUDA Risk and Safety Management Team. Prior to that, he was CEO and Co-founder at STATegics Inc., where he was responsible for the company's R&D and business development activities and was the Principal Investigator on six grant-funded programs. Prior to STATegics, Inc., he was Vice President, R&D and Head of Biology & Pharmacology at Maxygen, Inc. (MAXY), Redwood City, CA with responsibilities focusing on development of molecular evolution/DNA shuffling technologies as well as preclinical and early clinical development of next generation genetic vaccines and protein therapeutics, such as IFN-alpha, G-CSF, Factor VIIa, CTLA4-Ig and TPO agonist protein. Prior to Maxygen, he was a Scientist at DNAX Research Institute (SPG, now Merck Research Labs), Palo Alto, CA, where he also did his post-doctoral training at the Human Immunology Department. His clinical work involved patient care in pediatrics and internal medicine as well as hospital work as a consulting physician in medical microbiology. He has authored 93 scientific publications and 28 issued US patents, and he received MD and PhD (immunology) degrees from the University of Turku, Finland. About Hinge Bio Hinge Bio is a privately held biotechnology company leveraging its powerful GEM-DIMER platform to develop therapeutics that address the problems of inadequate efficacy, resistance and side effects. The GEM-DIMER platform creates multivalent, multispecific antibody-based therapeutics that bind their targets in a novel manner allowing for dramatically enhanced biological activity and unique functionality. The GEM-DIMER technology was invented by Hinge Bio's Chief Scientific Officer, Daniel Capon, Ph.D., who previously was the first to clone and express recombinant Factor VIII (Genentech) and invented Fc-fusion proteins (Genentech) as well as chimeric antigen receptors for T cell therapy/CAR-T (Cell Genesys). Dr. Capon also holds patents on the XenoMouse for the production of fully human antibodies (Abgenix) and the PhenoSense drug susceptibility and resistance test (Monogram Biosciences/LabCorp). Learn more at www.hingebio.com. Contacts: Hinge Bio: Carin Rollins Chief Operating Officer [email protected] SOURCE Hinge Bio, Inc. 9:30-11:00 am, Zenger Room at 14th and F St., Washington DC Please post and share with your business and society editors. Come live June 8 or arrange interviews remotely thru [email protected] WASHINGTON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- What is wealth? What is enough in the search for climate solutions? Come to encounter three leaders on these questions. This new Bruce Piasecki book is a timely manifesto on the power of social movements to respond to the climate crisis. Come to discuss how we overcome our major disabling prejudices on wealth and innovation; and get on the path to climate competitiveness. More at www.thedoingmorewithlessguy.com See why this book fits the Rodin series that includes Michael Bloomberg, Senator Bill Bradley, and other distinguished breakthrough book writers of renown. After writing and speaking from his 21 prior books for Wiley, Simon & Schuster, and Sourcebooks, Bruce Piasecki here shares the key findings of his new book, Wealth and the Climate Competitiveness: The New Narrative on Business and Society. More at www.rodinbooks.com. Contact agent Arthur Klebanoff, [email protected] for an advance reader copy this month. See more books, and his New York Times USA Today bestseller at www.brucepiasecki.com On June 8th, you will meet several users in corporations of Piasecki's firm, such as the Chairman of a corporate Board Piasecki sits on. Bruce Piasecki is the Founder and Chairman of AHC Group and author of more than 20 books. AHC Group focuses on public affairs, strategic management and change management. More at www.ahcgroup.com. To diversify the discussion on these topics of climate and wealth, Piasecki and his attending agent have invited two colleagues and working partners, Bill Novelli and Zachery Hartman. See their bios below. Please RSVP by June 6 to [email protected] if you want us to bring an examination copy of this new book. Bill Novelli is a professor emeritus at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business, where he founded the Business for Impact Center. Novelli was co-founder and president of Porter Novelli, a global public relations agency. For ten years, Bill Novelli was CEO of AARP. His latest book is Good Business (John Hopkins Press). Bill Novelli co-chairs the Medical Consortium on Climate and Public Health. He has honored Bruce Piasecki in writing the afterword to Wealth and Climate Competitiveness for Rodin Press. They are currently working together again on an Anthology for Rodin Press called The Voice of the CEO: An Anthology on the Path to Climate Competitiveness . Zachary Hartman is the Chief Policy Officer of the large non-profit Ducks Unlimited. As the leader in wetlands conservation, Ducks Unlimited works with philanthropic, corporate, and government partners to restore and conserve wetlands for the benefit of wildlife and all people. This partnership-driven, voluntary model of conservation provides corporations the opportunity to address soil health, water quality, and water quantity, while enhancing biodiversity. Their projects address climate change's issues of flood protection, as Ducks creates more opportunities for outdoor recreation. As explained in Piasecki's new book, this value-added perspective enables major projects that form durable partnerships to address some of society's most pressing climate challenges, the benefits of which will be felt for generations. Contact: Bruce Piasecki, business owner and author of new Rodin Press book 518-495-8810 [email protected] SOURCE Bruce Piasecki Despite the buzz around carbon markets, the Mena region has been a wary laggard in setting up its own emission trading systems (ETS). However, things have started to heat up in the last 12 months, with growing interest in voluntary carbon markets (VCM), led by institutional investors brandishing them as lucrative asset classes, supported by the regions aspiration to achieve its net-zero targets. This was one of the many points discussed at a roundtable of sustainability experts, who gathered in Bahrain to explore the role of carbon markets in accelerating Menas decarbonisation. Riham AlGizy, CEO of the PIF-backed Regional Voluntary Carbon Market Company (RVCMC), said there was a growing awareness about carbon markets and a growing need in the region that needs to be fulfilled. The RVCMCs auction last year of 1.4 million tons of carbon credits at the Middle Easts firstand the worlds largestcarbon offset auction in Saudi Arabia is likely to have provided impetus to the markets growth. This month (June) PIF is taking 20 Saudi companies to Nairobi, Kenya, to buy African credits, AlGizy said. Abdulrahim Ahmed, Senior Representative, Sustainability Committee, National Bank of Bahrain, agreed that things had improved from until a few years ago, when people from across sectors either didn't know about ESG or werent interested. Today he finds the market engaged. Essam Albakr, CEO of Riyadh-based Ejada Capital, however, found it hard to advertise carbon markets to investors because of the opacity surrounding the market. Adding to that, Venetia Bell, Group Chief Sustainability Officer at Gulf International Bank, said; The price variation on the global carbon markets is huge, ranging from a few cents to $100 per ton, depending on the type of creditwhether it's an avoidance or reduction, or whether it's nature or technology based, AlGizy, however, said its impossible to assign the same value to all carbon credits because, for example, "the renewable energy credits are very different than direct capture credits in terms of value". So it's not price conversion but rather price discovery, and the transparency around the price that we're seeking. And that's why we're setting up an exchange, she said. Nevertheless, there are challenges around integrity, transparency, and accountability over the credits, they all said. Highlighting the role of banks, Bell said they could contribute to the development of carbon markets in three ways: Origination, trading and risk management, and post trade advisory activity. Banks could also help clients take out derivatives or hedge their carbon related risk. From a more local angle, Albakr said for carbon credits to work in Saudi Arabia, institutional investors like the PIF should anchor the (carbon) funds. With regard to Bahrains challenges, Layla Sabeel from the Supreme Council for Environment, said her country wouldnt be able to generate enough credits to meet demand because of its lack of space for as many projects. She pointed out that Bahrain is also home majorly to some hard to abate sectors, like oil and gas and aluminum, and decarbonisation was a challenge there as well. Okan Ugurlu, Climate Change Expert from Turkiyes the Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change, expressed a similar opinion. The conditions countries face could be different from one another. There are some issues that stem from energy security and some from strategic sectors. So you need to balance between economic development and the climate change agenda. He said Turkey would have an ETS (compliance market) in two years. His country is also the third biggest supplier to the global VCM after China and India. All speakers did unquestionably believe there is a future in carbon markets. Bell said: We think they will grow, they're important, and we think they will play a role (in decarbonisation). But she added the focus needs to be on absolute emissions reductions. At the onset, Jessica Robinson, Mena sustainable Finance Leader, EY-Parthenon and the roundtable moderator, set the tone by explaining the two types of carbon markets. The compliance market is where basically the government will put a cap on emissions and allocate allowances and these are traded. So it's essentially a permit to pollute. But there's also the voluntary market, where companies and individuals purchase offsets and credits to compensate for their own emissions as well. --OGN "When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him." Johnathon Swift, epigraph to A Confederacy of Dunces. Sixty years ago, John Kennedy Toole first wrote A Confederacy of Dunces while living in Puerto Rico, teaching English to Spanish-speaking draftees as part of his military duty and after finishing a master's degree in Medieval studies. Toole took his life in 1969 at the age of thirty-two. The brilliantly uncanny and hilarious cult book won the Pulitzer Prize one year after publication in 1980, introducing the world to the eccentric, misunderstood, and hardly lazy genius Ignatius J. Reilly. I say hardly lazy because many reviews and characterizations of Reilly highlight his sedentary life when his mind and body billowed with activity even if the action was centered in his filthy room or capacious mind. Slovenly, yes. Lazy, not a chance. Numerous attempts to bring the novel to the silver screen have failed. Some say the story is cursed. Thirty-year-old Reilly, an unlikely anti-hero, with his problematic pyloric valve (read: gassy and flatulent), a biting commentary on anything and everything (pretentious ranting), fraught relationship with his mother Irene, and an infatuation with "Lady Fortuna," a literary device employed by Boethius in Reilly's favorite book, The Consolation of Philosophy, is an unforgettable character of epic proportions. While the narrative is parochially fast-paced, introducing a slew of unique and memorable creatures from the French Quarter, the particular dialects of New Orleans creatively invoked by Toole, are also central personas in the book, characters in and of themselves. The book's living personalities include "the cantankerous Claude Robichaux, who believes everyone to be a communist; the doltish police officer, Mancuso, who is the butt of all jokes at his precinct; and the put-upon Irene, who seeks solace in the wine she keeps hidden in the stove. But none compare to the pompous, booming Ignatius, always expostulating about a world he believes has lost its values while overlooking his idleness. Asked by Mancuso about his lack of employment, he replies, haughtily: "When my brain begins to reel from my literary labours, I make an occasional cheese dip." I remember reading this book as a freshman in college, sitting in the back of the room in Speech 101 and periodically laughing out loud. I flunked out of college after that, thinking that university learning had been emptied of geometry and theology, as Ignatius often lamented and, perhaps, because I chose to read novels about speechifying sorts in class rather than pay attention to the speechifying Communications professor. Toole imagined Ignatius and the dunces organized in confederacy against his genius in 1963. More than forty years after its publication, the numerous failed attempts to translate it into a celluloid production have included possible participation by the likes of Will Farrell, John Candy, John Belushi, Richard Pryor, John Waters, Chris Farley, John Goodman, Lily Tomlin, Drew Barrymore, Mos Def, Olympia Dukakis, James Bobin, and Zach Galifianakis. As reported in Slatein 2006, "Throughout Dunces' history, studio chiefs have been reluctant to bet on a colloquial story involving an overweight intellectual who avoids sex and is fond of alluding to Roman philosophers. In many cases, the suits simply didn't get the book." Recently, I listened to the first audio version of the book narrated by Barrett Whitener. Audible does not allow access to the second Penguin version read by comedian Reginald D. Hunter in 2022. I have been searching the web vigorously. Penguin/Random House Audio advertises the book, but no affiliated platforms have the recording available in the US. "Due to rights restrictions we require a UK billing address to supply eBooks/eAudiobooks" is the message I received when trying to download. Any help from the Boing world would be appreciated. For more on the problematics of Audible as a behemoth monopoly-driven platform, check out Cory Doctorow's essay, "Why None of My Books are Available on Audible and why Amazon owes me $3,218.55," available on Audible. The backstory to the novel's publication is equally remarkable. Toole's mother insisted that her son was a genius and hounded novelist Walker Percy to read the book. Percy read, wrote the foreword, and then worked with Kent Carroll, a young editor at Grove Press, to introduce the world to the capacious, suspicious, and behemoth imagination of Ignatius J. Reilly. In 2022, Kent Carroll and Jodee Blanco published I, John Kennedy Toole, "the novelized true story of the funny, tragic, riveting narrative behind the making of an American masterpiece. The novel traces Toole's life in New Orleans through his adolescence, his stay at Columbia University in New York, his attempts to escape the burden of his demanding mother and his weak father, his retreat into a world of his creation, and finally, the invention of astonishing characters that came to living reality for both readers (and the author himself) in his prize-winning A Confederacy of Dunces." DSP107, a first-in-class CD47 and 4-1BB targeting fusion protein, in combination with atezolizumab, was well tolerated and demonstrated durable responses Dose was determined for Phase II expansion cohorts in 3rd line MSS-CRC and 2nd/3rd line NSCLC Data to be presented at ASCO 2023 MODI'IN, Israel, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- KAHR, a clinical-stage biotech company developing DSP107, a novel, bi-specific CD47x4-1BB targeting immunotherapy that activates innate and adaptive immunity to treat solid tumors and blood cancers, today announced positive results from the dose escalation Phase I study of DSP107 in combination with atezolizumab (anti-PD-L1) in patients with advanced solid tumors. The results will be presented as a poster in the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2023 Annual Meeting, to be held June 2-6, in Chicago, IL. Yaron Pereg, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of KAHR said, "We are extremely encouraged by the dose escalation data, showing significant tumor shrinkage and durable responses to DSP107 in combination with atezolizumab in patients with microsatellite stable colorectal cancer (MSS-CRC), which is considered a 'cold' tumor that usually does not elicit an efficient immune response. The highest dose of DSP107 (10 mg/kg) in the dose escalation phase was selected for the Phase II expansion cohorts in 3rd line MSS-CRC patients and 2nd/3rd line non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) patients. In light of DSP107's latest and previously demonstrated favorable safety profile, and the deep and long-lasting responses seen in the combination therapy dose escalation stage of the trial, we believe that DSP107 has the potential to benefit patients who are non-responsive or refractory to existing cancer treatments." Results of the completed dose escalation part of the study show that DSP107 in combination with atezolizumab was well tolerated (n=19) with no dose limiting toxicities (DLT's) and no hematological or hepato-toxicities up to and including the highest dose tested (10 mg/kg). At the highest dose (10 mg/kg) of DSP107, which was selected for the expansion cohorts, the combined treatment demonstrated a disease control rate (DCR) of 57% (4/7 patients with objective response or stable disease). Deep and durable objective responses were observed in 2 of 3 patients with MSS-CRC, with target lesion shrinkage of 73% and 83% including disappearance of pulmonary and hepatic target lesions in one patient and response durability currently standing at 10 and 9 months, respectively. The third MSS-CRC patient achieved stable disease (16% target lesion shrinkage) lasting for 6.5 months until progression. Another patient with adrenal carcinoma from the highest dose cohort also remains stable on treatment after 11 months. The combination therapy dose escalation phase of the study was an open label, multi-center trial (NCT04440735) that enrolled 19 patients with advanced solid tumors, with a median of 3 prior lines of therapy. Patients were treated weekly with 1, 3 or 10 mg/kg DSP107 infusions and atezolizumab (1200 mg) every three weeks, until disease progression. The primary objective was to determine the safety and tolerability of DSP107 in combination with atezolizumab. The secondary objective was to assess the preliminary efficacy of DSP107 in combination with atezolizumab. Presentation information Date: June 3rd, 2023, 8:00 am-4:00 pm Session: Developmental Therapeutics Immunotherapy Abstract #2632 Poster #474 Abstract available on the ASCO website. About DSP107 DSP107 is a dual-targeting fusion protein that activates innate and adaptive immunity by blocking CD47 on cancer cells and utilizing 4-1BB conditional co-stimulatory activation of T-cells. By binding both cancer cells and immune cells, DSP107 combines checkpoint inhibition with tumor localized immune cell activation to bolster anti tumor immunity. DSP107 binds to and inhibits CD47, an immune checkpoint protein overexpressed in many cancers that enables the tumor to evade immune recognition and attack by macrophages. Simultaneously, when anchored to the tumor, DSP107 binds 4-1BB, a co-stimulatory receptor expressed on T-cells, recruits them to the tumor microenvironment and stimulates their activation. These activities result in targeted macrophage and T-cell mediated immune activation and tumor destruction. DSP107's phase I monotherapy dose escalation data demonstrated an excellent safety profile (n=23), with no binding to red blood cells and no dose limiting toxicities (DLT's), hematological or hepato-toxicities in all tested doses up to and including 10 mg/kg. Paired biopsies data demonstrated biological activity including immune cell infiltration in the tumor compartment following DSP107 treatment and 50% disease control rates (11/22) in advanced solid tumor patients. DSP107 is also being tested in combination with standard of care therapies (azacytidine and azacytidine with venetoclax) for relapsed/refractory AML and MDS patients in a Phase 1b study. About KAHR KAHR develops novel dual-targeting fusion protein therapeutics engineered to activate both the innate and the adaptive immune systems simultaneously and localize that response in the tumor microenvironment. KAHR's lead product candidate, DSP107, is a CD47x41BB targeting compound. DSP107 is being tested in a Phase I/II clinical trial in advanced solid tumors and a Phase Ib clinical trial in blood cancers. KAHR's preclinical pipeline includes DSP502, a PVRxPD-L1 targeting fusion protein, and DSP216, an HLA-GxCD47 targeting fusion protein. For more information, please visit https://kahrbio.com/ Media contact Tsipi Haitovsky Global Media Liaison KAHR +972-52-598-9892 [email protected] SOURCE KAHR Medical HIGASHIURA, Japan, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Karimoku Furniture Inc., headquartered in Higashiura, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, will exhibit at Design Shanghai 2023 in the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center in Shanghai, China, from Thursday, June 8, to Sunday, June 11, 2023. The company will unveil its SEYUN collection of furniture for the first time at an international event held in Asia. The SEYUN collection comprises chairs, armchairs, and tables manufactured by the company and designed by ZAHA HADID DESIGN (ZHD), one of the studios founded by architect Zaha Hadid, who passed away in 2016. Image1: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M107683/202305165668/_prw_PI3fl_27MA5lY1.jpg?_ga=2.111835021.807734025.1684742436-646424222.1615447594 Image2: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M107683/202305165668/_prw_PI2fl_khUEk3Y9.jpg?_ga=2.175790891.807734025.1684742436-646424222.1615447594 SEYUN collection, which references Zaha Hadid's pioneering designs, is manufactured by combining asymmetrical surfaces with the contrast of soft outlines and hardwood. The pleasantly textured oak furniture undergoes high-precision machining and passes through the hands of skilled artisans who ensure the edges, joint lines, and other details are as perfect as can be. The lineup shows the versatility of wood; while some pieces feature the familiarly bright, smooth finish of natural wood, others are painted to look almost metallic rather than wooden at first glance. ZHD was also in charge of the company's booth design, an abstract representation of SEYUN complete with curves resembling cubic functions, a hallmark of Zaha Hadid's designs. Each design feature announces the arrival of SEYUN collection. The signs fashioned in the image of the wooden boxes used in international logistics sit atop a bespoke wool rug. The company announced the SEYUN collaboration in Japan in 2021 and introduced SEYUN collection to the world at Milan Design Week in Italy this past April. Now, the company is poised to unveil SEYUN collection in Asia. China is home to many of Zaha Hadid's surviving architectural works. By providing information to local media and dealers there, Karimoku Furniture aims to increase brand recognition among consumers and expand business in the Chinese market. Description of exhibit - SEYUN Chair Image3: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M107683/202305165668/_prw_PI4fl_b2R2sz45.jpg?_ga=2.175790891.807734025.1684742436-646424222.1615447594 Size: W 49.5 cm x D 53.5 cm x H 78.0 cm, seat height 46.0 cm Colors: 6 (Grain Matte Black, Metallic Black, Metallic Blue, Pure Oak, Silver, Smoked Oak) Local price and release date: To be determined - SEYUN Armchair Image4: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M107683/202305165668/_prw_PI5fl_DP5o7w3y.jpg?_ga=2.175790891.807734025.1684742436-646424222.1615447594 Size: W 58.5 cm x D 53.5 cm x H 78.0 cm, seat height 46.0 cm, arm height 66.0 cm Colors: 6 (Grain Matte Black, Metallic Black, Metallic Blue, Pure Oak, Silver, Smoked Oak) Local price and release date: To be determined The company will also exhibit a SEYUN Table prototype. Collaborator - ZAHA HADID DESIGN "Reinterpreting everyday items into something unimaginable" Zaha Hadid's important contributions over the past 40 years include research and development spanning many sectors. Her second studio, ZAHA HADID DESIGN (ZHD), features a portfolio that offers a glimpse beyond her widely recognized achievements in architecture, revealing the surprising depth of her creative methodology and process through progressive designs in fashion, jewelry, furniture, installations, and exhibition space arrangement. From collaborations with world-renowned luxury brands to projects with influential galleries, exhibition space arrangements for major cultural institutions, and product labels designed by Hadid herself, ZHD defines new, experimental ways to design to continue exploring its role in the context of contemporary culture. - About Zaha Hadid Born in Baghdad, Iraq, in 1950. After studying mathematics at the American University of Beirut, she moved to London in 1972 and earned a bachelor's degree from the Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA School) in 1977. She founded Zaha Hadid Architects in 1979 and completed her first building, the Vitra Fire Station, in Germany in 1993. In 2004, she became the first woman to win the Pritzker Architecture Prize, architecture's highest honor. She also received the Royal Institute of British Architects Stirling Prize in consecutive years (2010 and 2011). Although she passed away on March 31, 2016, her legacy lives on in the DNA of the studio. Exhibition overview - Exhibition title: Design Shanghai 2023 - Venue: Booth B-14, Hall 1, Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center - Dates: Thursday, June 8, to Sunday, June 11, 2023 - Hours: 10:00 - 18:00 (until 20:00 on the first day) - Organizer: Clarion Events Ltd Website: https://www.designshanghai.com/design-shanghai About Karimoku Furniture Inc. In 1940, Shohei Kato founded a woodworking shop in the city of Kariya in Aichi Prefecture. Building on skills developed in the process of fabricating wood products, the shop eventually became a furniture manufacturer that began retailing its own wooden furniture in the 1960s. Under its philosophy of "Quality First", the company engages in furniture manufacturing with "High-tech & High-touch" -- a combination of advanced machine fabrication and sophisticated craftsmanship. Receiving the bounty of nature, such as trees, it has always aspired to create furniture that contributes to the enrichment of people's lives, and this stance has never changed. Furthermore, in pursuit of safety, peace of mind, and environmental friendliness, the company also meets the standards for made-in-Japan furniture labeling set out by the Japan Furniture Industry Development Association. Website: English: https://www.karimoku.com/en/main.php Chinese: https://www.karimoku.com/ch/main.php SOURCE Karimoku Furniture Inc. Innovative Collapse and Compact Technology Simplifies Travel and Storage for Users KAYSVILLE, Utah, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Klymit, a leading producer of lightweight and comfortable, yet rugged outdoor sleep gear and camping accessories, announced today the Klymit Cedar Mesa Cot, designed to provide a comfortable, elevated, outdoor sleeping experience. Innovative Collapse and Compact Technology Simplifies Travel and Storage for Users The Cedar Mesa Cot features patent-pending "Easy Lever Lock" technology and unique Collapse and Compact technology. These enable an effortless setup and foldable take-down experience that seamlessly turns the oversized cot into the size of a small briefcase. The Cedar Mesa Cot is now available in two sizes, large and extra large, exclusively at Klymit.com for $249 MSRP and $299 MSRP. "Klymit aims to provide an elevated level of ease and comfort to outdoor experiences with each of our products," said Cory Tholl, President, Klymit. "Our new Cedar Mesa Cot aims to address the well-known issues of uncomfortable camp sleep and delivers an easy-to-assemble, durable cot that packs into a portable briefcase, intuitively engineered for every adventure." Klymit's all-new Cedar Mesa Cot features: Intuitive design ensures accurate and easy set up Aluminum trapezoid structure and unique oval profile of tubing provide optimal strength and comfortable fabric tension for excellent support. Patent-pending "Easy Lever Lock" system makes assembling and tensioning the cot simple and easy Collapse and Compact technology simplifies takedown by seamlessly folding the durable, oversized cot into the size of a small briefcase Strong and durable 300D polyester ripstop PU backed fabric Large, rounded feet protect tent floors and keep your cot firmly in place Easy to access gear pocket for small accessories Large Cot Dimensions - 80 x 31 x 16 in Extra Large Cot Dimensions - 85 .5 x 37 x 16 in Klymit is part of the Gathr Outdoors family of brands which is committed to making spending time together outdoors more comfortable and convenient. For more information on Klymit visit, www.Klymit.com . For more information on Gathr Outdoors visit, www.GathrOutdoors.com . About Klymit Klymit is a leading producer of lightweight and comfortable, yet rugged outdoor sleep gear, and part of the Gathr Outdoors family of brands. The company is headquartered in Kaysville, Utah and was conceived on the idea that the experience of sleeping outside can be enhanced with innovative technologies. For more information on Klymit visit: www.Klymit.com . SOURCE Gathr Outdoors JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. and COLOGNE, Germany, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Labor Dr. Wisplinghoff and LabConnect announced today the start of their strategic alliance to provide high quality and tailormade central laboratory services in Europe to support clinical trials around the world. Labor Dr. Wisplinghoff, located in Cologne Germany is one of the largest independent private medical laboratories in Europe, established for over 45 years. LabConnect is a trusted partner for Central Laboratory Services and Functional Service Provider (FSP) Solutions. For over 20 years, LabConnect has been helping clients successfully achieve clinical trial milestones faster by providing unparalleled program oversight and support. Connecting the Wisplinghoff laboratories' tremendous testing capabilities and the broad clinical trial services of LabConnect will provide their clients with the full range of required services for clinical trials in Europe and beyond. Strategic alliance to further accelerate the development of new medicines for patients around the world. Tweet this "We are very pleased to have this strategic alliance with Labor Dr. Wisplinghoff to provide our clients access to the highest quality of scientific support and innovative lab testing in Europe," said Marc van Kempen, LabConnect General Manager EMEA. Professor Hilmar Wisplinghoff added, "In bringing together one of the largest medical laboratories in Europe and one of the world's leading providers of Central Laboratory Services, I am convinced that we will be able to further improve our contribution to healthcare and ultimately to the patients. Complementary to this strategic alliance, LabConnect announced the opening of a new LabConnect facility for clinical kit building and biorepository storage in Swalmen, the Netherlands. "These major milestones complete the buildup of the infrastructure for LabConnect in EMEA further strengthening our offering to clients with a full range of global central laboratory services to meet the unique needs of clinical trials - no matter the size or complexity," Marc van Kempen commented. From providing clinical lab kit production, logistics and sample management, biorepository storage, lab sample testing, and integrated data management as well as functional scientific and technical expertise, LabConnect delivers an end-to-end quality experience to make it easier for pharmaceutical, biotech and contract research organization (CRO) clients to achieve their clinical trial objectives faster. LabConnect's Co-founder and Chief Development Officer, Jeff Mayhew stated, "With our shared mission to create healthier communities and improve patient lives, we are excited to be collaborating with Dr. Labor Wisplinghoff to accelerate the development of new medicines for patients around the world." ABOUT LABCONNECT LabConnect improves lives by partnering with pharmaceutical and biotech companies, and contract research organizations (CROs), to accelerate the development of new medicines around the world. An independent, global, one-stop-shop focused on delivering central laboratory services that are tailor-made, timely and flexible to meet the evolving study demands of traditional to increasingly complex clinical trials. ABOUT LABOR DR. WISPLINGHOFF Labor Dr. Wisplinghoff improves patient care by providing highest quality laboratory diagnostics to hospitals, medical practices, universities, health departments and other medical entities 24/7/365. Founded in 1977 by Dr. Uta Wisplinghoff, it has become one of the largest independent clinical laboratories in Western Europe. Based in Cologne, Germany, the laboratory provides its comprehensive testing capabilities to national and international clients covering all areas of clinical pathology with experienced board-certified medical specialists. SOURCE LabConnect Governor Josh Shapiro Attended Ceremony on May 31 DEVENS, Mass., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Little Leaf Farms , the country's #1 brand of packaged lettuce sustainably grown through controlled environment agriculture (CEA), is announcing it will open a new state-of-the-art greenhouse in McAdoo, Pennsylvania this fall. This will be the fifth greenhouse for Little Leaf Farms, and the brand's second greenhouse in Pennsylvania. With the expanded capacity of 10 additional acres of indoor production of fresh, sustainably grown lettuce, Little Leaf Farms will increase its retail presence to nearly 5,000 grocery stores, making its fresh greens available at most major retailers from the Midwest to the Southeast. PA Governor Josh Shapiro (center left) and other state officials welcome Little Leaf Farms leadership, including Founder and CEO Paul Sellew (center right), at a ribbon cutting in McAdoo, PA. Photo Credit: Commonwealth Media Services. Little Leaf Farms is growing with the addition of new greenhouses in McAdoo, PA. Photo Credit: Brian Riedel. Little Leaf Farms is growing with the addition of new greenhouses in McAdoo, PA. Photo Credit: Brian Riedel. The expansion news was shared at a ceremony the brand hosted on May 31, welcoming Governor Josh Shapiro and other state representatives to celebrate Little Leaf Farms' growth in Pennsylvania. Little Leaf Farms owns 180 acres in McAdoo and has rapidly grown to be the largest producer of indoor-grown leafy greens in the state. The company opened its first 10-acre greenhouse in July of 2022 and expects to employ over 170 by the end of 2023. "We believe in the CEA industry's role in the path to more sustainable produce production and are focused on our mission of delivering fresh and delicious leafy greens to consumers," said Paul Sellew, Founder and CEO of Little Leaf Farms. "We continue to build on our ambitious plans for growth and our expansion in Pennsylvania is a testament to how we've been able to continuously scale our efficient production and operations. We're thrilled to have increased our retail sales by more than 50% in the past year and to be the #1 brand of packaged lettuce sustainably grown through CEA in the country." These 10 additional acres under glass represent a significant capacity increase, enabling Little Leaf Farms to harvest more than 20M pounds of leafy greens yearly across its sites. The new greenhouse will employ Little Leaf Farms' state-of-the-art technology and efficiencies, including advanced heating, cooling and lighting systems, as well as utilize the natural power of the sun and fresh rainwater. The greenhouse will also integrate the brand's hands-free automated grow system, which means the leafy greens are untouched from seed to packaging and never require washing. Little Leaf Farms' lettuce is farmed 365 days a year, harvested daily and delivered from greenhouse to grocery store in 24 hours. "Pennsylvania has a proud agricultural heritage, and our agriculture sector is a key driver of our economy, contributing over $132 billion to our economy and supporting nearly 600,000 jobs," said Governor Shapiro. "I want to plant a flag and show the rest of the country that Pennsylvania is a leader in agriculture, job creation, and innovation and Little Leaf Farms' investment in our Commonwealth is proof that the future is being grown right here in Carbon County. Pennsylvania is open for business and my Administration will continue to support our farmers, scientists, and entrepreneurs who want to grow and thrive here in the Commonwealth." "Pennsylvania has been an excellent partner in bringing our vision for expansion to life," continued Sellew. "With its ideal location on the East Coast, we've been able to grow significantly to the Southeast and are now looking forward to even more growth in the Midwest to bring our delicious and fresh greens to more consumers, all still within 24-hours of harvesting for ultimate freshness." The brand also presented a $10,000 donation to Feeding Pennsylvania, a local nonprofit that works to secure food and other resources to reduce hunger and food insecurity across the state. The funds will be distributed to Feeding Pennsylvania's member food banks to assist individuals throughout the area facing food insecurity. "Feeding Pennsylvania is thrilled to partner with Little Leaf Farms and to accept this $10,000 donation, which will be allocated to each of our nine member food banks serving all 67 counties of Pennsylvania," said Shea Saman, interim CEO and CFO of Feeding Pennsylvania. "Food Banks in Pennsylvania and across the country are facing growing financial challenges due to rising demand for food assistance, increasing costs for food and other operating expenses, and disruptions to the supply chain for essential food commodities. This financial support will help food banks bridge the gap to ensure that they can continue to meet the growing needs of communities across Pennsylvania." Continuing its mission to transform the way food is grown and bring fresh, leafy greens to all, Little Leaf Farms remains focused on scalable expansion and growth. The brand recently announced its projection to break $100 million in retail sales by the end of 2023, and with capacity to continue building out additional space in Pennsylvania, looks forward to expanding its greenhouse footprint in both Pennsylvania as well as in Devens, Massachusetts where it operates three greenhouses. For more information on Little Leaf Farms, visit littleleaffarms.com. About Little Leaf Farms Little Leaf Farms is on a mission to transform the way food is grown through peri-urban agricultural practices that are rebuilt for the modern world. Using advanced greenhouse technologies, Little Leaf Farms is growing fresh, sustainably farmed lettuce 365 days a year. Little Leaf Farms utilizes captured rainwater, natural sunlight that shines through high transmission glass, and solar-powered energy in their precise, soil-less hydroponic farming. The crispy, flavorful baby greens are harvested without ever touching human hands and are never treated with chemical pesticides, herbicides, or fungicides. For more information, visit littleleaffarms.com or @littleleaffarms. Media Contact: Tori Partykevich [email protected] 630-670-7147 SOURCE Little Leaf Farms Margex has unveiled Margex Copy Trading, allowing users to replicate the strategies of professional traders without making their own trading decisions. VICTORIA, Seychelles, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Margex, the leading cryptocurrency trading platform, is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated release of its automated Margex Copy Trading. This innovative product aims to empower users by allowing them to copy strategies of professional traders, without the need for making their own trading decisions. Margex Margex Copy Trading is designed to make trading simpler and more profitable for everyone, from experienced traders to beginners. Any user can simply earn profits by replicating the trades of experienced traders, while experienced traders can earn additional income by allowing others to copy their successful strategies. How Does Margex Copy Trading Distinguish Itself from Other Platforms? Margex Copy Trading is a powerful tool that allows you to benefit from professional traders' strategies without prior experience. You can earn profits by copying their successful trades, matching their Return on Equity (ROE). Margex doesn't charge success fees, ensuring all profits belong to you. With a minimum investment of $10, it's ideal for beginners to gradually increase earnings and explore more complex strategies. Exclusive Margex Copy Trading App Finally Available After Long Wait One of the standout features of Margex Copy Trading is the dedicated copy trading application. The app is designed to be simple and user-friendly, making it easy to manage your portfolio and track your performance. You can choose the percentage of your portfolio to invest in each trade and monitor your profits in real-time. Additionally, you can withdraw profits daily, giving you greater flexibility and control over your investments. Feel welcome to experience our application by downloading it now from both the Google Play Store and Apple Store. About Margex Margex is a boutique cryptocurrency exchange, established in 2019, providing its users with a safe, secure, and user-friendly platform offering robust trading instruments, with up to 100x leverage on 30+ crypto trading pairs in the likes of Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Uniswap, and now Toncoin. Margex is trusted by the trading community, with a rapidly-growing loyal user base. Follow Margex on Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, Discord, and YouTube, or join the Margex team. This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com. SOURCE Margex Collaboration establishes Canada's first ground-based radar capable of monitoring Resident Space Objects in geosynchronous orbit BRAMPTON, ON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - MDA Ltd. (TSX: MDA), a leading provider of advanced technology and services to the rapidly expanding global space industry, today announced it is working with Thoth Technology Inc. (Thoth) to create a made-in-Canada deep space radar surveillance and space domain awareness (SDA) capability. As part of a strategic cooperation agreement, MDA commercial data services will be integrated with Thoth's ground-based radar technology to provide unprecedented levels of sovereign monitoring in deep space over Canada, providing both detection and characterization of space objects. ARO and Aurora (CNW Group/MDA Ltd.) Thoth uses a unique ground-based radar to characterize objects in geosynchronous orbit (GEO). This new radar technology, called Earthfence, detects and characterizes Resident Space Objects (RSOs) in GEO to provide situational awareness for a region 36,000 km away from Earth. As part of the agreement, MDA will utilize its extensive experience to provide web-based data services through its industry leading observation web platform tool to evaluate and store data collected from Earthfence. MDA will also serve as the customer interface for all data requests. "This collaboration is a natural fit for MDA, and we're excited to be part of bringing Thoth's unique deep space radar technology to build this space domain awareness capability in Canada," said Mike Greenley, CEO of MDA. "MDA currently operates the Department of National Defence Sapphire spacecraft, the only non-US space-based contributor to the US Space Surveillance Network, and with this agreement with Thoth, we are well positioned to continue to provide critical space domain awareness capabilities that are an essential part of space surveillance and space security." Located in northern Ontario, Thoth's radar facility provides more accurate range and other characterization information than the current optical systems used for GEO. Combined with MDA's expertise, it will advance, develop and deliver transformative capabilities in deep space radar surveillance and SDA. "In an increasingly congested and contested space environment, operators of complex satellites need to ensure that their technology is safe," said Dr. Caroline Roberts, Thoth Technology President and CEO. "Leveraging the innovative work of Dr. Brendan Quine, CEO of ThothX and an expert in radar technologies, our Earthfence technology provides unprecedented levels of space traffic awareness day or night and Thoth is the only commercial provider of this service. As a growing Canadian business, we are thrilled to have the support and data expertise of an established company like MDA." ABOUT MDA Serving the world from its Canadian home and global offices, MDA (TSX:MDA) is an international space mission partner and a robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 50-year story of firsts on and above the Earth. With over 2,700 employees across Canada, the US and the UK, MDA is leading the charge towards viable Moon colonies, enhanced Earth observation, communication in a hyper-connected world, and more. With a track record of making space ambitions come true, MDA enables highly skilled people to continually push boundaries, tackle big challenges, and imagine solutions that inspire and endure to change the world for the better, on the ground and in the stars. Learn more by visiting mda.space. ABOUT THOTH Thoth Technology Inc. is a Canadian company based in Ontario, Canada, and operates a 46-meter Deep Space Radar located at the Algonquin Radio Observatory. Together with its U.S. affiliated company, ThothX LLC, Thoth delivers cutting-edge GEO space object range and characterization of data (SSA) to a range of less than 25 meters, and to an object range to 100,000 km, on a cost-effective basis providing extensive GEO coverage utilizing proven technology and terrestrial radar antennas. This system provides operational redundancy, increased object coverage, superior characterization information, cost savings, and non-classified data generation. ThothX also operates the radar antenna located in Carnarvon, Western Australia. Learn more by visiting www.thothx.com. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains forwardlooking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflects the Company's current expectations regarding future events. Forwardlooking information is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forwardlooking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the factors discussed under "Risk Factors" in MDA's Annual Information Form available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. MDA does not undertake any obligation to update such forwardlooking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law. SOCIAL MEDIA Twitter: twitter.com/MDA_space Facebook: facebook.com/MDAspace LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mdaspace YouTube: youtube.com/c/mdaspace Instagram: instagram.com/MDA_space SOURCE MDA Ltd. Less than two weeks before Mother's Day, a son gives his mother the most precious gift of all by donating a portion of his liver during the first Living Donor Liver Transplant on Florida's West Coast. Link to video: https://vimeo.com/830541858?share=copy TAMPA, Fla., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Last week, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) announced that doctors at the academic health system had performed the first living donor liver transplant on the West Coast of Florida. In the video link above, donor Derek Sanz and Patricia Sanz, the recipient and Derek's mother, shared their story. Of the living donor liver transplant surgery, Derek said, "It can save two lives, it can save the life of the recipient and also someone waiting on the transplant list. I want to thank Tampa General for giving me the opportunity to help my mom before it was too late." Dr. Kiran Dhanireddy, vice president and chief of the TGH Transplant Institute and surgical director of the Comprehensive Liver Disease and Transplant Center at the TGH Transplant Institute, performed the recipient operation and was assisted by Dr. Diego Reino, an experienced Tampa General transplant surgeon. Dr. Ashish Singhal, director, Living Donor Liver Transplant, performed the donor surgery and was assisted by Dr. Vijay Subramanian, a liver transplant surgeon at Tampa General. An entire team of health care professionals supported both surgeries. For nearly 50 years, Tampa General has been a national leader in lifesaving organ transplantation. In 2022, the hospital performed 682 transplants, a 20% increase in the number of procedures over the previous year. According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), the national rate of transplants grew by 3.7% in 2022 over 2021. The surgery took place May 2, 2023. "I'm going to live my life to the fullest," Patricia said. Visit https://www.tgh.org/services/transplant to learn more about the Tampa General Transplant Institute. ABOUT TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL Tampa General Hospital, a 1,040-bed, not-for-profit, academic health system, is one of the largest hospitals in America and delivers world-class care as the region's only center for Level l trauma and comprehensive burn care. Tampa General Hospital is the highest-ranked hospital in the market in U.S. News & World Report's 2022-23 Best Hospitals, and is tied as the third highest-ranked hospital in Florida, with seven specialties ranking among the best programs in the United States. Tampa General Hospital has been designated as a model of excellence by the 2022 Fortune/Merative 100 Top Hospitals list. The academic health system commitment to growing and developing its team members is recognized by two prestigious Forbes magazine rankings first nationally in the 2022 America's Best Employers for Women and sixth out of 100 Florida companies in the 2022 America's Best Employers by State. Tampa General is the safety net hospital for the region, caring for everyone regardless of their ability to pay, and in fiscal year 2021, provided a net community benefit worth more than $224.5 million in the form of health care for underinsured patients, community education, and financial support to community health organizations in Tampa Bay. It is one of the nation's busiest adult solid organ transplant centers and is the primary teaching hospital for the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. With six medical helicopters, Tampa General Hospital transports critically injured or ill patients from 23 surrounding counties to receive the advanced care they need. Tampa General houses a nationally accredited comprehensive stroke center, and its 32-bed Neuroscience, Intensive Care Unit is the largest on the West Coast of Florida. It also is home to the Jennifer Leigh Muma 82-bed neonatal intensive care unit, and a nationally accredited rehabilitation center. Tampa General Hospital's footprint includes 17 Tampa General Medical Group Primary Care offices, TGH Family Care Center Kennedy, TGH Brandon Healthplex, TGH Virtual Health, and 21 TGH Imaging powered by Tower outpatient radiology centers throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Palm Beach counties. Tampa Bay area residents also receive world-class care from the TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track network of clinics. To see a medical care professional live anytime, anywhere on a smartphone, tablet or computer, visit Virtual Health | Tampa General Hospital (tgh.org). As one of the largest hospitals in the country, Tampa General Hospital is the first in Florida to partner with GE Healthcare and open a clinical command center that provides real-time situational awareness to improve and better coordinate patient care at a lower cost. For more information, go to www.tgh.org. Media Contact: Beth Hardy, APR Senior Communications Specialist (813) 844-7322 (direct) (813) 510-6363 (cell) [email protected] SOURCE Tampa General Hospital NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Medical Properties Trust, Inc. (NYSE: MPW) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws. Class Period: July 15, 2019 to February 22, 2023 Lead Plaintiff Deadline: June 12, 2023 No obligation or cost to you. Learn more about your recoverable losses in MPW: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/medical-properties-trust-lawsuit-loss-submission-form?id=40040&from=4 Medical Properties Trust, Inc. NEWS - MPW NEWS CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Medical Properties Trust, Inc. made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) the Company masked the distressed state of its tenants through sale-leaseback arrangements which were essentially round-robin transactions in that they allowed debt-saddled tenants to meet their obligations in the short-term; (ii) the Company fraudulently transferred hundreds of millions of dollars in what amounted to a bailout of financially distressed tenants; (iii) the Company concealed its fraudulent transfers with fake construction projects with purportedly high capital expenses, despite the fact that the Company entered into "triple-net leases," which meant that its tenants were obligated to pay a significant portion of expenses, such as real estate taxes, insurance, and maintenance; and (iv) as a result, the Company's public statements, including those with respect to the Pennsylvania Properties, were materially false and misleading at the time they were made. WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Medical Properties Trust you have until June 12, 2023 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff. NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Medical Properties Trust securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees. HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the MPW lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/medical-properties-trust-lawsuit-loss-submission-form?id=40040&from=4. ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. CONTACT: J. Klein, Esq. 535 Fifth Avenue 4th Floor New York City, NY 10017 [email protected] Telephone: (212) 616-4899 www.kleinstocklaw.com SOURCE The Klein Law Firm BUFFALO, N.Y., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB)("M&T") will participate in the Morgan Stanley US Financials, Payments & CRE Conference being held in New York City. Representatives of M&T are scheduled to deliver a presentation to investors and analysts on June 14, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. (ET). A link to the webcast will be available at https://ir.mtb.com/events-presentations. The webcast may contain material information as well as forward-looking information, and cautionary statements regarding such forward-looking information will be available on the webcast link. About M&T Bank Corporation M&T is a financial holding company headquartered in Buffalo, New York. M&T's principal banking subsidiary, M&T Bank, provides banking products and services in 12 states across the eastern U.S. from Maine to Virginia and Washington, D.C. Trust-related services are provided in select markets in the U.S. and abroad by M&T's Wilmington Trust-affiliated companies and by M&T Bank. CONTACT: Brian Klock (716) 842-5138 SOURCE M&T Bank Corporation According to People.com, Andy Muschietti, director of The Flash, is looking forward to working with alleged cult leader Ezra Miller again if the film is successful enough to merit a sequel. Rumors are rapidly beginning to swirl about Jonathan Majors' future involvement with the Marvel cinematic universe after allegations of the Creed 3 star assaulting a woman hit the headlines. Although Marvel has remained mum on the issue, Majors has since been dropped by his talent manager and had his US Army ads pulled from television, and at this point, it seems clear Disney will likely follow suit. Whether or not the allegations are accurate, Disney's decision to potentially distance itself from the actor would prove wise, as the nature of the case intrinsically creates issues for Marvel's family-friendly brand. On the other side of the superhero movie fence at DC, Ezra Miller, who was arrested for allegedly throwing a chair at a woman's head and breaking into people's homes, in addition to earning an order of protection from a 12-year-old child, has been allowed by Warner Brothers Discovery to retain their lead role in The Flash. You might think that Warner Brothers Discovery, who are also in the midst of several other unfavorable news stories, would want to cut ties with the volatile star once The Flash hits theaters, but it seems like the film's director, Andy Muschiett, thinks Miller should get another crack at playing, ya know, a superhero if the movie earns a sequel. 1 in 5 say their manager has taken no action to alleviate work-related stress Nearly 3 in 10 feel they can't take time off this summer MENLO PARK, Calif., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Burnout is a problem that just won't go away, new research from talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half shows. In a survey of more than 2,400 professionals in the U.S., 38% of respondents reported being more burned out now than a year ago. Workers said the top factors contributing to burnout today are: Heavy workloads (56%) Lack of communication and support from management (32%) Insufficient tools and resources to perform effectively (27%) Research from Robert Half reveals top steps managers have taken to address burnout. Those with the highest burnout levels include: Millennials (27- to-42-year-olds) Working parents Employees who have been with their company for 2-4 years View infographics of the research highlights. "Despite employers' efforts to better support employee well-being, burnout is an issue that needs ongoing attention," said Paul McDonald, senior executive director of Robert Half. "Compounding the matter, businesses are moving forward with an influx of new projects, putting more pressure on current staff who may already be stretched thin." Combating Burnout Culture The research shows more must be done to promote a healthy workplace culture. Nearly four in 10 professionals (37%) feel uneasy about expressing feelings of burnout with their boss. Further, one in five workers said their manager hasn't taken steps to help them alleviate work-related stress. Those who are receiving support have been: Encouraged to take time off (26%) Provided greater schedule flexibility (24%) Given guidance on prioritizing projects (22%) Foregoing Summer Fun Work breaks are essential for restoring energy and focus and preventing burnout. While 28% of professionals plan to use more vacation days this summer compared to last summer, an equal percentage (28%) feel they can't take time off, either because they have too much work or worry it will impact their job security. Another 21% of employees will be checking in with work frequently when on vacation. McDonald noted, "Refreshed and recharged workers are happier, more productive and less likely to burn out. To discourage hustle culture and find better balance, managers must set clear and realistic expectations, and workers need to prioritize self-care and protect their personal time. Contract professionals can step in to help ensure projects stay on track and workloads remain manageable." Visit the Robert Half blog for tips on supporting employee mental health and preventing work burnout. About the Research The online survey was developed by Robert Half and conducted by an independent research firm May 4-26, 2023. It includes responses from more than 2,400 workers 18 years of age or older in finance, technology, marketing and creative, legal, administrative and customer support, human resources, and other areas at companies with 20 or more employees in the U.S. About Robert Half Robert Half (NYSE: RHI) is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. Offering contract and permanent placement solutions in the fields of finance and accounting, technology, administrative and customer support, legal, and marketing and creative, Robert Half has more than 300 locations worldwide, including nearly 100 locations in 18 countries outside the United States. Robert Half is the parent company of Protiviti, a global consulting firm that provides internal audit, risk, business and technology consulting solutions. Robert Half, including Protiviti, has been named to the Fortune Most Admired Companies and 100 Best Companies to Work For lists and is a Forbes Best Employer for Diversity. Explore our comprehensive solutions, research and insights at RobertHalf.com . SOURCE Robert Half The European Commission voted a new electronic identification scheme that creates new opportunities for EU citizens and businesses. SOFIA, Bulgaria, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Evrotrust Technologies AD, a leading European qualified trust service provider has been successfully voted by the Cooperation Network at the European Commission as a pre-notified electronic identification (eID) scheme under the eIDAS Regulation. This opens the doors for citizens of all member states to access public services in the entire EU completely digitally with only a few clicks. Earlier this year, Evrotrust, headquartered in Bulgaria, attracted a pre-seed investment of 2.5 million euros, distinguishing itself as a leader in the Central and Eastern European start-up space. The company has over 1 million international users aged between 18 and 80 and over 100 business clients, 15 of which are some of the major banking institutions worldwide. "We are incredibly proud to have been pre-notified by the EU under the eIDAS regulation" said Evrotrust Chairman of the Board of Directors, prof. George Dimitrov. "This achievement is a testament to our dedication to providing trustworthy and reliable digital identity and e-signing solutions to individuals and businesses in Europe. We look forward to continuing to innovate in the area of digital transformation and play a leading role in the future of digital identities and qualified trust services." The pre-notification procedure of Evrotrust involved peer review assessment for eIDAS compliance by all European member states. The procedure took more than 6 months, and as a result, the Evrotrust eID scheme is recognized to meet both high and substantial assurance levels, demonstrating its commitment to providing secure digital identity to individuals and businesses across Europe. Last year Evrotrust was recognized by Deloitte as one of the 50 fastest-growing tech start-ups in central Europe for its stunning 958% growth rate. About Evrotrust Evrotrust is a leading electronic identity and qualified trust service provider with a mission to help businesses and governments digitally transform their processes and develop sustainable digital channels. The Evrotrust platform is an end-to-end solution for remote electronic identification and digital signing with qualified signatures that enables users to remotely register and authenticate for any service using only their smartphone. It is easily integrated into third-party backend systems and mobile applications. Working with Evrotrust empowers any organization to provide an excellent user experience while staying compliant with regulations and keeping fraud away. www.evrotrust.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2081253/evrotrust_Logo.jpg SOURCE Evrotrust Technologies AD The design-led lifestyle brands will implement the cloud-based platform to transform their store operations BOSTON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NewStore , a modular, mobile-first omnichannel cloud platform for retail brands worldwide, today announced that Filson and Shinola , two American lifestyle brands owned by Bedrock Manufacturing Co., have selected the company to modernize their in-store experiences. Both brands will implement the NewStore mobile point-of-sale , order management , and store inventory solutions to create seamless, unified customer journeys across all touchpoints. "It was an easy decision to go with NewStore after assessing various omnichannel solutions. On top of the company's proven track record of working with game-changing retailers, the platform can be implemented at a pace that aligns with the unique needs of our brands. The company also has a strong network of technology partners, which was important to us," said Rob Sayre, CIO, Bedrock Manufacturing Co. "NewStore's experience and expertise will be invaluable for both Filson and Shinola as we bring this project to life, and our partnership will only get stronger as we grow our portfolio of retail brands." Filson, known for its rugged outdoor apparel and accessories, and Shinola, famous for its handcrafted watches, jewelry, and leather goods, will benefit from the NewStore platform's omnichannel capabilities, including mobile checkout, endless aisle, store fulfillment, buy online pickup in-store (BOPIS), buy online return in-store (BORIS), and more. "Our brands are committed to providing customers with the highest quality products and experiences. By rolling out NewStore at Filson and Shinola, we will dramatically improve how shoppers interact with both businesses," added Jonathon Pop, Principal Architect, Bedrock Manufacturing Co. "The partnership will streamline operations, improve inventory accuracy, and help our retailers gain valuable insights about their customers, all while offering a more unified shopping experience." The NewStore platform will allow Filson and Shinola associates to provide a more personalized level of service by consolidating customer, order, and inventory data into one easy-to-use iOS app. And store employees will be equipped with iPhones, enabling them to access real-time data, assist customers more efficiently, and process transactions from anywhere on the store floor. "From day one, NewStore was built on a composable SaaS architecture, which allows brands like Filson and Shinola to deploy features and scale based on their needs. This has become more important than ever in today's retail environment," said Stephan Schambach, Founder and CEO, NewStore. "These brands have spent years establishing their reputations and cultivating a loyal following. Investing in omnichannel with NewStore will strengthen those foundations and future-proof both businesses." To learn more about the NewStore Omnichannel Platform, and to request a demo, visit: https://www.newstore.com/ . About Bedrock Manufacturing Co. Bedrock Manufacturing Co. is a manufacturing and design group that is home to a stable of design-led, global brands, including Shinola and Filson. Detroit-based Shinola is a design brand with an unwavering commitment to crafting products that are built to lastfrom timepieces to leather goods, jewelry to audio. Seattle-based Filson is known for its high-end outdoor clothing and accessories. About NewStore NewStore provides Omnichannel-as-a-Service for retail brands worldwide that want to accelerate their digital transformation. Built with MACH principles, NewStore allows brands to easily deliver amazing shopping experiences that store associates and consumers love. Its mobile-first, modular cloud platform includes POS, order management, clienteling, inventory, and native consumer apps. NewStore customers such as Burton, Faherty Brand, G-Star RAW, Marine Layer, Roots Canada, Scotch & Soda, UNTUCKit, and Vince benefit from the most complete, global omnichannel retail solution available now supercharged with Tap to Pay on iPhone. The company is backed by General Catalyst, Activant Capital, and Salesforce Ventures. Learn more at www.newstore.com . SOURCE NewStore, Inc. DALLAS, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NexPoint Residential Trust, Inc. ("NXRT" or the "Company") (NYSE: NXRT) announced today that Brian Mitts, NXRT's Chief Financial Officer, Executive VP-Finance, Secretary and Treasurer, Matthew McGraner, NXRT's Executive VP and Chief Investment Officer, and Bonner McDermett, NXRT's VP, Asset Management, will be meeting with investors and others at Nareit's REITweek: 2023 Investor Conference, to be held June 6-8 at the New York Hilton Midtown in New York City. A copy of the meeting materials will be posted in the Resources section of NXRT's website at nxrt.nexpoint.com on the morning of June 6, 2023. About NXRT NexPoint Residential Trust is a publicly traded REIT, with its shares listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "NXRT," primarily focused on acquiring, owning and operating well-located middle-income multifamily properties with "value-add" potential in large cities and suburban submarkets of large cities, primarily in the Southeastern and Southwestern United States. NXRT is externally advised by NexPoint Real Estate Advisors, L.P., an affiliate of NexPoint Advisors, L.P., an SEC-registered investment advisor, which has extensive real estate experience. More information about the Company is available at http://www.nxrt.nexpoint.com. CONTACTS Investor Relations Kristen Thomas [email protected] Media Relations Prosek Partners for NexPoint [email protected] SOURCE NexPoint Residential Trust, Inc. Veteran nonprofit executive begins her position on July 10 DETROIT, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Children's Center (TCC) Board of Directors CEO Search Committee announced today that Nicole Wells Stallworth will serve as its next Chief Executive Officer, leading the organization as it continues serve children and families in Detroit. Wells Stallworth will begin in this role on July 10, 2023, after spending more than two decades in leadership on the front lines of advocacy for some of the most significant issues that impact equity and quality-of-life outcomes for all. Chief Executive Officer Nicole Wells Stallworth (Image Courtesy of The Children's Center, 2023) (PRNewsfoto/The Children's Center) Wells Stallworth, a high-level social impact executive, was chosen after an extensive year-long, nationwide search involving more than 10 candidates, which was narrowed to four by early April. Their selection was finalized in the agency's Executive Committee session held May 24, 2023. Liz Agius, Board Chair of the Children's Center, said, "We are thrilled to have Nicole back to lead The Children's Center into this new chapter for the organization. Ms. Wells Stallworth's background and experience align with our recently established strategies and initiatives aimed at keeping TCC serving the community for years to come. Her expertise in nonprofit management, issue advocacy, behavioral health, child welfare, public education, legislative and government affairs, communications, and philanthropy make her extremely well-qualified for this role." Wells Stallworth previously served as Executive Director for Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan and Vice President for Public Affairs for Planned Parenthood of Michigan. In this role, she was responsible for the leadership and oversight of Planned Parenthood's public advocacy strategy, constituency engagement programs, legislative action strategies, government relations, its PAC, Super PAC, and electoral programs. "As a long-time advocate for The Children's Center, I am honored to join as the new President & CEO. This affords me an exciting opportunity to translate my passion, experience, and expertise into an effort to help children and families shape their own futures and life outcomes in meaningful and impactful ways," said Wells Stallworth. "My mission as CEO will be to continue building upon the momentum and tremendous legacy of my predecessor, Deborah Matthews while being a champion for the stability, success, and growth of families within our community." Wells Stallworth has served as Assistant Vice President for Government & Community Relations at Oakland University where she was responsible for heading the University's community relations presence, advocacy-related initiatives, and direct engagement of local elected officials in the townships & municipalities of Wayne, Oakland & Macomb Counties. She also holds solid organizational knowledge of the Children's Center having served the agency as Director of Government & Community Affairs from 2011 to 2014. Wells Stallworth has deep roots both in Detroit and in Lansing. She is a Lansing native and has lived in Detroit for over 25 years. Her experience started in the non-profit space where she has held a variety of roles at every level of the non-profit sector that have provided a platform for her to advocate for low-income families and individuals struggling to obtain and maintain vital services and fair treatment within systems essential to obtaining and preserve a quality of life. Throughout her career, she has made several national appearances including on MSNBC with Alex Wagner and Ali Velshi, NBC News with Yamiche Alcindor, ABC News with Kyra Phillips, Vice News, NPR Radio, USA Today, has been quoted in TIME Magazine, Politico, and Cosmopolitan.com. "It is time I celebrate the work we've done together and pass the baton to our next leader; Ms. Wells Stallworth, who is more than equipped to bring TCC the energy it needs to navigate new challenges," said Debora Matthews former president and CEO of The Children's Center. "I'm excited to see how TCC will continue to serve children and families in Detroit and Wayne County for years to come." Wells Stallworth will officially start Monday, July 10, 2023, while Matthews will phase out her tenure with a hybrid schedule until September 29, 2023, to help facilitate a smooth transition. "We are experiencing a time in history when the intersections between access to high-quality clinical and behavioral healthcare for children and youth and healthy communities could not be more evident. Children's behavioral healthcare is a public health imperative," said Wells Stallworth. About The Children's Center Since 1929, The Children's Center has been helping children and families shape their own futures. Serving nearly 7,500 children each year, our licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists work with children who struggle with behavioral, emotional, educational, and physical challenges and may have experienced trauma. We treat the whole child, looking at more than a single issue so we can provide the best, most comprehensive integrated care. We provide best practice and evidence-based care to guide diagnosis and treatment, and help children and families overcome their strugglesso they can heal, grow, and dream again. To learn more about The Children's Center, visit www.TheChildrensCenter.com . SOURCE The Children's Center Dublin headquartered NomuPay raises substantial Series A investment from Finch Capital and Outpost Ventures DUBLIN, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NomuPay, a modern end-to-end payment platform purpose built for expansion into regions of high cross-border and ecommerce growth, has raised $53.6m. The round was led by Finch Capital, and includes participation from Outpost Ventures, a Neuberger Berman fund, with participation from individuals. Peter Burridge, CEO of NomuPay, says "Every growing international enterprise knows the problem of 'multiples', when it comes to payments. There are multiple countries, multiple payment types, different payment use cases in each nation, a variety of channels, and an endless list of changing regulations. As a result, expansion slows down. Companies have to maintain countless technical integrations and vendor relationships, while reconciling global payments. At NomuPay, we remove the burden of 'multiples', by unifying fragmented payment networks. In the face of continued technological, market, method and data fragmentation, we provide companies with an 'all access pass' to global payments', enabling enterprise to continue to expand globally, and to future-proof payment strategies." NomuPay's Unified Payments (uP) Platform provides omnichannel payments acceptance and payout disbursements through a single API integration. Engineered to simplify fragmented payment infrastructure throughout Southeast Asia, Europe and Turkey; the uP Platform provides scalable payment solutions and robust data management and reporting capabilities. An 'all-access pass' to payments, NomuPay's uP Platform is gateway agnostic and capable of augmenting existing payment infrastructure with ease. Radboud Vlaar, Managing Partner of Finch Capital, says "Under the Leadership of Peter Burridge, NomuPay has made a series of licence acquisitions, and top level hires that has helped to take the company to the next level. On top of this, the company has built a Unified Payments Platform that unlocks local payment acceptance and payout disbursements in geographies that have long lacked a unified system, through a simple and single integration. We are very excited to see how NomuPay address the burning need of clients in these core markets." David Dubick, Partner of Outpost Ventures says, "We're thrilled to partner with the deeply experienced team at NomuPay and be a partner with them in this next phase of growth. Throughout our conversations with NomuPay we've been continually impressed by the technological implementation of the uP Platform, its ability to solve a wide range of issues faced by enterprises and marketplaces in global payments, as well as their approach to distribution and the initial partners who are using the platform at scale." NomuPay has successfully started to onboard new clients as of Q4 2022, and are now actively scaling the business in their core markets. The team continues to add new markets to the uP Platform, as well as continuing to invest in product development. About NomuPay The modern end-to-end payment solution, NomuPay's Unified Payment (uP) Platform makes it easy to accept payments and send payouts in Europe and across the expansion markets of Southeast Asia and Turkey through a single integration. Purpose-built to support your international growth efforts, the uP Platform's secure API unlocks a wide range of payment acceptance methods, including card, buy-now-pay-later solutions, instalment payment plans, and local alternative payment methods in Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, the Philippines and Turkey. Architected to enable payouts based on your organisation's unique payment workflows, NomuPay's uP Platform provides payment providers, large enterprises, and sophisticated marketplaces with end-to-end payment visibility and traceability. Founded in 2021, NomuPay is Institutional funded and has a presence in Dublin, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Istanbul and Bangkok. The executive team is comprised of industry veterans with previous experience at Hyperwallet (a PayPal Service), US Bank, Barclays, Ingenico, Evo Payments, and American Express. For more information about NomuPay, visit: https://nomupay.com/ Follow us on Linkedin at https://linkedin.com/company/nomupay Ben Goldsmith, +44(0)7788295321, [email protected] SOURCE NomuPay Noodoe's Electric Fleet Management Solution makes transitioning to electrified fleets effortless, offering streamlined integration and simplified management for company fleets worldwide. HOUSTON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As companies grapple with the complexities of electrifying their gas-powered fleets, Noodoe, world leading electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions provider, today announced its supercharged Electric Fleet Management Solution, ushering in a new generation of fleet management, custom-built for the electric era. The announcement was made by Jennifer Chang, Noodoe's CEO: "The ever-increasing intricacies of fleet management brought about by the EV revolution have disrupted the way companies worldwide do business. Noodoe's advanced Fleet Management Solution streamlines electrification efforts, easing the transition to electric vehicles." Fleets around the world are stepping into the EV epoch and need a system built for this next generation of fleet management. Noodoe offers unparalleled support to businesses transitioning to their first or integrating their last electric vehicle. In Noodoe EV OS, Noodoe's innovative cloud-based operating system for managing all aspects of EV charging services, setting up a new electric fleet, rolling an existing one onto the system, or managing a mixed fleet in the process of transitioning could not be easier. Fleet integration happens in a few clicks, and administrators can easily manage vehicles, telematics devices, and EV charging stations. Managers can assign and reassign telematics devices, moving them from gas-powered to electric vehicles seamlessly. Noodoe EV OS makes managing already electrified or transitioning fleets truly frictionless. Noodoe's Fleet Solution kicks off the next generation of fleet management. By meeting the needs of fleet managers throughout the electrification process, Noodoe answers some of the biggest worries transitioning fleets have. (1) Businesses no longer need to worry about tracking a vehicle's potential range or state of charge. The Noodoe Fleet Management Solution integrates with new and existing telematics devices (even those attached to gas-powered vehicles) to provide the live status of every fleet vehicle, including its current battery level when in the field or the amount of energy already transferred when charging. (2) Managers need not worry about potential complications from adding EV chargers. Noodoe EV OS manages both the fleet vehicles and the business' charging stations, giving dispatchers a complete overview of their entire operation from a single platform. (3) Fleet managers do not need to be concerned with calculating vehicle charging and departure times. Integrated dynamic load balancing and advanced smart scheduling make it easy to manage fleet charging times autonomously. Set a departure time, and the system will automatically arrange its power distribution priorities to ensure each vehicle meets its deadline. Noodoe has committed itself to advancing the worldwide adoption of electric vehicles. Its next-generation electric Fleet Solution makes the transition to electrified fleets simple. Offering end-to-end support and a team of committed EV charging experts ready to support businesses throughout their transition, Noodoe has doubled down on providing the best EV charging experience to every fleet operator. About Noodoe Inc. Noodoe's vision is to put the best EV charging experience in every parking lot via Noodoe EV charging stations running Noodoe EV OS, today's most advanced operating system for running intelligent charging infrastructures. Flexible and innovative, Noodoe develops next-generation solutions to meet any business' EV charging needs. By automating all operations of the EV charging network, including 24/7 charging service delivery, automatic billing, payment processing, and infrastructure diagnostics, Noodoe EV OS enables Charging Service Providers worldwide to achieve the lowest possible operating costs. noodoe.com SOURCE Noodoe NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- For this year's NYC Pride, the Nordic countries are once again uniting for the participation in and around the historic celebration of equality, LGBTQIA+ rights and the commemoration of the Stonewall Uprising of 1969. The Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden are coming together for the 2023 Pride here in New York City. The five countries will march in the parade to highlight their longstanding commitment to a future without discrimination. Equal rights have continuously been a focus area for the Nordic countries. According to Asher & Lyric's 2023 ranking, they are all among the safest countries to visit for LGBTQIA+ travellers (Sweden - #2; Norway #5; Denmark #8; Iceland #12; Finland #22). But that does not mean that all goals have been reached. The work continues around the Nordics, and each country has reached mile stones in past years that bring them pride. Denmark to focus on the wellbeing of LGBTQIA+ children and youth In August, the Danish government launched a new action plan with focus on the well-being of LGBTQIA+ children and young people, including 39 new initiatives including work against hate crimes and global engagement. "We need to acknowledge that families come in many different forms and we need to insist that LGBTQIA+ people have the same opportunities and can thrive like everyone else," said the Danish Minister for Equality at the time, Trine Bramsen. Finland removes barriers for trans persons to change legal gender At the start of 2023, Finland passed a new, progressive law that significantly lowers the barriers for trans persons to change their legal gender. The Act on Legal Recognition of Gender passed with a large majority in the Finnish Parliament and means that transgender persons over 18 can change their legal gender by a process of self-declaration. The citizens' initiative on marriage equality for same-sex couples became the first citizens' initiative in Finland to be granted approval and to result in legislative change. The law on marriage equality for same-sex couples took effect in Finland on March 1st, 2017. Iceland changes law around gender autonomy and the labor market Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010 and same-sex couples have been entitled to adopt since 2006. Johanna Sigurdardottir, Iceland's Prime Minister 2009-2013 was the world's first openly gay head of government. The government prioritises action on LGBTQIA+ rights in its foreign policy. Sweden voted #1 safest country by LGBTQIA+ travel community Sweden has been voted as the number one safest country to travel to as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. This is due to the country's progressive laws, policies, and attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ individuals, as well as its efforts to promote LGBTQIA+ rights and safety. In Sweden, same-sex marriage has been legal since 2009, and same-sex couples have the same adoption rights as opposite-sex couples. Sweden also allows transgender individuals to legally change their gender without undergoing medical treatment or surgical procedures and provides access to hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries. Norway launches action plan on Gender and Sexual Diversity Norway's participation this year's Pride's holds an extra special meaning as it follows the brutal terrorist attack that took place 25 June 2022 on an LGBTQIA+ bar in the capital of Oslo leading to the local Pride parade being cancelled. However, this aggression only strengthens the Norwegian and Nordic commitment to openness and equality for all sexual and gender orientations and expressions. In February, the Norwegian Government's Action Plan for Gender and Sexual Diversity was launched with 49 measures aimed at securing the rights and quality of life for LGBTQIA+ people and to increase recognition of gender and sexual diversity. Strength in Solidarity Scandinavian events throughout Pride month The 2023 theme for the NYC Pride "Strength in Solidarity" feels especially apt for the year following the attack in Norway. The Nordic focus on pride and solidarity in New York also extends beyond the March. 1 June, the Swedish Consulate General and NYC Parks host a screening of Prejudice and Pride: Swedish Queer Film (2022) in McCarren Park, a rainbow-colored roller coaster ride through a stunning collection of films. From Maurtiz Stiller's filming of the world's first gay romance in 1916 to the exciting new wave of Scandinavian transgender cinema, along with all the highs and lows of the century long struggle for queer liberation. At the historic Christopher Park, an audio installation brings the stories from the Stonewall uprising to life through George Segal's Gay Liberation statues. The Talking Statues project is based on a Danish concept, launching in New York 11 June. On June 21-25, the AllTogether Clubhouse, an exhibition co-curated by The Community, presents a new curation of artworks from the Tom of Finland Foundation's permanent collection. The exhibition space will be activated daily through an extensive programming of talks, screenings, performances, and concerts, connecting generations of New York queer scene over the past decades. For more information on the Nordic participation in NYC Pride, please contact: Denmark Katinka Friis: [email protected] Finland Anssi Vallius: [email protected] Iceland Bergora Laxdal: [email protected] Norway Michael Bell: [email protected] Sweden Aviva Neuman: [email protected] SOURCE Nordic Consulates General in New York Leveraging Omnilert Gun Detect with Avigilon Alta solutions allows rapid response to threats with instant intelligence sharing and automatic lockdown capabilities LEESBURG, Va., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Omnilert , a leader in active shooter and emergency notification solutions, today announced the integration of Omnilert Gun Detect software with Avigilon Alta's leading access control systems, formerly Openpath. Through this integration, Avigilon Alta customers will now be able to provide 24/7 monitoring of their facilities for gun threats with Omnilert Gun Detect and simultaneously activate lockdowns and response plans for a near-instant response to a verified threat. This includes immediately restricting access by locking doors, notifying police, sending alerts to those on and off site, and more. Omnilert SMS and App notifications feature rich situational intelligence of suspected gun detections for human verification, that could be either Omnilerts monitoring centers or the customers security operations center. Automated response and lock-down scenarios can be activated at the touch of a button. These customized plans could include lock doors, notify police, alert all students and staff onsite and provide real-time location and details of the shooter to first responders. Avigilon Alta offers mobile and cloud-based access control systems to accommodate both small and enterprise businesses. These systems are currently deployed in commercial real estate properties, enterprise offices, educational institutions, houses of worship, gyms and fitness studios, and multi-family residential communities across the U.S. and internationally. Building perimeters and parking lots are one of the most insecure areas on a corporate or school campus and are one of the first locations where guns are commonly spotted in advance of an incident. In addition to being used indoors, AI-powered visual gun detection is the only technology that can add a layer of protection to these external areas. In addition, Omnilert Gun Detect is the only solution that features a unique combination of early gun detection, human verification, mass communication, and an automated response. When combined with an access control technology, such as Avigilon Alta, customers have the ability to spot a gun, secure buildings and warn those in harm's way before a shot is even fired. "With active shooting incidents and gun violence on the rise in virtually every industry, AI visual gun detection technology is becoming a requirement in a multi-layered security system," said Dave Fraser, CEO of Omnilert. "Avigilon Alta has been keeping its customers safe for decades with its access control systems, and now our Gun Detect solution will combine to provide another layer of protection that can identify weapons in seconds and initiate a quick and robust response." Online Visual Gun Detection Self Demo Once Omnilert Gun Detect identifies a gun, it sends an alert to a designated person that could be part of either Omnilert's monitoring centers or the customer's security operations center to verify detections. When a threat is confirmed, the Omnilert system triggers an alert that sets the security team and police into action, along with prescribed response scenarios that can protect those in harm's way. This solution gives emergency response teams advance warning before shots are fired and delivers precise information on the location and a photo and video of the potential shooter. To let people try out the gun detection software themselves in their own home or office, Omnilert recently released a cloud-hosted, self demo that uses a webcam vs. a security camera to detect gun threats. This demo lets users see the power and potential of Gun Detect using their computer's webcam and a real or real-looking toy gun. To access the demo and test Gun Detect, visit https://omnilert.com/demo . About Omnilert Omnilert is transforming public safety with the industry's most effective AI-powered active shooter prevention solution that combines early visual gun detection with a proven rapid response that can save time and lives. The Omnilert platform empowers existing security cameras with monitoring software that can identify gun threats at first sight and then activate automated response capabilities that maximize each critical second. Once a gun is verified, this could include locking doors, notifying first responders, sending images, location and video of the shooter; and sending alerts and guidance to anyone near the situation, all in mere seconds. Founded in 2004, Omnilert is the trusted partner to thousands of customers across multiple industries including K-12 schools, higher education, government, healthcare, manufacturing and retail. The company is headquartered in Virginia. For more information, visit https://omnilert.com/ . Media Contacts: Erika Powelson Omnilert Media Relations [email protected] 408-781-4981 SOURCE Omnilert, LLC Utility companies and enterprises in general face certain challenges when operating private cellular networks. Among these challenges are managing cybersecurity effectively, optimizing operations and performance, increasing supply chain speed and efficiency, overcoming the lack of knowledge about cellular networks, and simplifying regulatory compliance. OneLayer addresses these challenges by providing a comprehensive and dedicated solution to help utilities leverage their investments and unlock greater business value from private cellular networks. The OneLayer Bridge solution has addressed these challenges while delivering a significant 300% return on investment. First, it enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of cybersecurity management, enabling real-time visibility and improving security policy enforcement while reducing operational costs through process automation. Second, it increases the speed and efficiency of the supply chain, facilitating seamless and agile logistics operations. Finally, it simplifies regulatory compliance, ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations without undue complexity. "We are thrilled to deliver such exceptional results to our customers," said Joel Silberman, VP Of Sales and Business Development at OneLayer. "Our focus on securing private cellular networks and driving substantial ROI reflects our commitment to providing cutting-edge technology that meets the evolving needs of modern enterprises." In building this calculator, One Layer drew upon valuable insights from WWT, Anterix, Nokia and Burns&McDonnell. Visit OneLayer's booth to test the ROI tool at 2023 UTC Telecom & Technology Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida from June 5-9. For more information about OneLayer's ROI tool, please visit https://onelayer.com/. About OneLayer: OneLayer brings complete visibility and threat prevention to IoT and other devices connected to a private LTE & 5G network so any activity can be tracked and policies put in place to secure the environment. With OneLayer's solution, you'll gain full asset management capabilities, get operational intelligence, and protect against cellular breaches through zero-trust segmentation. OneLayer is dedicated to the private cellular networks' security domain. It enables enterprises to treat the new cellular network as another enterprise network without the need to be cellular experts. Contact: Sapir Yarkoni [email protected] Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089431/OneLayer_ROI_Calculator.jpg SOURCE OneLayer On October 30, 2002, pioneering DJ Jam Master Jay (aka Jason Mizell) of Run-DMC was shot and killed in a Jamaica, Queens recordings studio. It wasn't until 2020 that Karl Jordan Jr. and Ronald Washington were charged in the crime that authorities tied to a big cocaine deal gone wrong. They've pleaded not guilty and will go to trial in January 2024. Now though, a third manJay Bryanthas also been charged with Jam Master Jay's murder. From the New York Times: Communications firm outlives its 1963 competitors while operating under same family ownership COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Strategic communications firm Paul Werth Associates, born in a former candy store on Olentangy Road in 1963, is marking its 60th anniversary this year as one of the few remaining Columbus firms from that time and the only one still operating under the same ownership. PAUL WERTH ASSOCIATES MARKS 60 YEARS IN BUSINESS Founded by its namesake, the firm today provides public affairs, public relations, marketing, research, digital and creative services to a blue-ribbon portfolio of local, state and national clients. Located on Capitol Square, Werth has distinguished itself as a sought-after strategist and connector for some of the region's most influential leaders, and as a change-maker on community issues. "Our 60th anniversary, which we'll be celebrating throughout 2023, has given us a chance both to mark an important milestone and to reflect on how the public relations profession and Werth has evolved," said Sandra Harbrecht Ratchford, Paul Werth's daughter and the firm's CEO. "For the first half of the 20th century, PR was seen primarily as gaining publicity through the news media," she said. "That was starting to change by the time my father founded our firm, and he actually was an early influencer in professionalizing the practice of PR and marketing. While our profession today is still often misunderstood, the best definition I've seen is the one used by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), which describes it as 'a process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their publics.'" Werth's work has ranged from helping companies relocate and acclimate to central Ohio (e.g., Honda of America Mfg., American Electric Power, Borden Company, Chase Bank and Anheuser-Busch among them) to advocating for positive public policy related to education, healthcare, environment and workforce development. "Over the years, we've added more robust research, digital, design and public affairs capabilities," said Julie Granillo, Paul Werth's granddaughter and recently named president of the firm. "As social media proliferated, we became experts in that, telling our clients' stories outside traditional news outlets. And, we've continued to build important partnerships that allow us to connect our clients with those who are vital to their success." While smaller than the largest national firms, Werth has long punched above its weight when it comes to the sophistication of its work and recognition within the industry. Since the 1970s, Werth has won 10 Silver Anvils, the highest award bestowed by PRSA for work on behalf of clients. Its most recent came in 2021 for its collaboration with the Ohio insurance industry to build a workforce pipeline to fill a projected talent shortage. "This is certainly an interesting time to be in our industry," Granillo said. "And I'm excited for what the future will bring." Werth will be celebrating both publicly and with its many partners throughout 2023. In the meantime, a timeline of Werth milestones can be found here . SOURCE Paul Werth Associates LEHI, Utah, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PCF Insurance Services, a top 20 U.S. insurance brokerage firm, announced today that it has signed an enterprise agreement with Vertafore, a leading insurance technology company, as part of PCF Insurance's strategic focus to drive profitable, organic growth, create efficiencies and provide more data across its network of more than 140 agencies. Vertafore "Our partnership with Vertafore aligns with our goal of leveraging technology to empower collaboration, improve processes, and create efficiencies and economies of scale that will unlock additional organic growth opportunities," said Jenni Lee Crocker, President of PCF Insurance. "Vertafore's best-in-class solutions offer a competitive advantage to all of our Agency Partners." The investment is designed to help PCF Insurance's Agency Partners harness technology to power modernization in the four areas proven to support growth: managing the agency, engaging clients, connecting in real-time with carriers, and leveraging data for agency growth and better client service. "Vertafore is thrilled to partner with PCF Insurance to equip its Agency Partners with solutions that will fuel their long-term success," said Gareth Walter, Chief Revenue Officer at Vertafore. "PCF has a clear technology vision, and we're looking forward to empowering its strategy to drive growth and help its Agency Partners strengthen their relationships with their clients." Vertafore's end-to-end approach to agency management simplifies and automates the insurance life cycle, while creating an exceptional digital experience for both their customers and their customers' clients. "Implementing Vertafore's suite of solutions across our enterprise will strengthen our entrepreneurial culture, empowering our Agency Partners to focus their time and energy on cultivating relationships and meeting the evolving needs of clients," said Crocker. "Vertafore has demonstrated a genuine interest in partnering with us to help us achieve our current and future goals." About PCF Insurance Services A top 20 U.S. broker headquartered in Lehi, Utah, PCF Insurance Services is a leading full-service consultant and insurance brokerage firm offering a broad array of commercial, life and health, employee benefits, and workers' compensation solutions. Propelled by its people, PCF Insurance's agency-centric operating model and entrepreneurial environment support its tremendous growth profile, offering partner agencies alignment through equity ownership, significant leadership incentives, and resources. Ranked #20 on Business Insurance's 2022 Top 100 Brokers and #13 on Insurance Journal's 2022 Top Property/Casualty Agencies, PCF Insurance is a notable leader in the insurance space, with 3,100 employees across the U.S. Visit pcfins.com for more information. About Vertafore As North America's InsurTech leader for more than 50 years, Vertafore is modernizing and simplifying the insurance life cycle so that our customers can focus on what matters most. Vertafore's solutions provide end-to-end connectivity across the distribution channel, improve the client and agent experience, unlock the power of data, and streamline essential workflows to drive efficiency, productivity, and profitability for independent agencies, MGAs and carriers. For more information about Vertafore, visit www.vertafore.com. 2023 Vertafore and the Vertafore logo are registered trademarks of Vertafore. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. SOURCE PCF Insurance Services - Denver's must-see hotels, venues, restaurants and attractions perfect for this summer's getaway with the gals DENVER, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- When she earns that promotion, a milestone birthday arrives or it's time to celebrate the bride-to-be, look no further than Denver, Colorado for an affordable, urban retreat with mountain adventures just a short drive away. The Mile High City offers a plethora of places to shop, dance, dine and relax, all with easy access to the great Rocky Mountains. Denver International Airport is the most connected airport in the country with nearly 180 domestic nonstop destinations, which makes getting to Denver a breeze fromeverywhere. Once your group has touched down, grab the train to downtown and check in at one of Denver's unique boutique hotels complete with a fun cocktail bar and an outdoor pool. Hit the town to experience diverse culinary offerings from award-winning chefs, then try something new like relaxing in beer at The Beer Spa by Snug. Dedicate an afternoon to shopping in Cherry Creek North, the epicenter for boutique shopping in the city featuring 16-blocks of local and renowned luxury retail stores, then see a concert at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, named no. 1 on Rolling Stone Magazine's "Bucket List-Worthy Guide to the 11 Hottest Outdoor Music Venues." Denver truly has it all for the perfect girl's trip. See below for more places to stay, shop, sip and see in Denver, then check out the VISIT DENVER website to complete your itinerary. WHERE TO STAY THE RAMBLE HOTEL 1280 25th St. Denver, CO 80205 This 50-room boutique hotel is located in Denver's River North Art District and features Death & Co, the first location outside of its New York institution, an intimate theater and event bar, and a new restaurant from Denver's acclaimed Work & Class. The Ramble holds a great reverence for the magic and escapism a hotel can provide, offering a stylish yet intimate break from the routine. THE JACQUARD HOTEL & ROOFTOP 222 Milwaukee St. Denver, CO 80206 Urban elegance defines Cherry Creek. And now, The Jacquard gives you the perfect home base for exploring all its charmingly independent boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Celebrate life's best moments with style. Beautiful mountain views are as close as the rooftop poolenhanced all the more with a handcrafted cocktail at the rooftop bar. HALCYON, A HOTEL IN CHERRY CREEK 245 Columbine St. Denver, CO 80206 Combining the ease of Colorado's lifestyle with the air and grace of a great hotel, Halcyon is unhooked from the ordinary in all the best ways, its luxury served on the unassuming side, complete with a stunning rooftop pool deck. Come reside in considered comfort, among friends seduced by an original idea of what living well can be. THE MAVEN HOTEL 1850 Wazee St. Denver, CO 80202 The Maven is a unique, independent hotel in Denver's newest micro-district, the Dairy Block. Surrounded by Denver's best shopping and restaurants, at The Maven, you will find comfort and delight around every corner, as your sense of curiosity is stoked and you curate your own experience. THE SOURCE HOTEL 3350 Brighton Blvd. Denver, CO 80216 The Source Hotel, a member of the prestigious Preferred Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, is a lifestyle hotel and a culinary complex in the heart of Denver's RiNo Art District. It expands on the nationally recognized Source market hall, a collection of top food and beverage artisans set in an 1880's iron foundry. The 100-room, eight-story tower is The Source's modern counterpoint, with rooms characterized by natural light, fresh air and views of the Colorado mountains and downtown Denver skyline. Before booking, find out-of-this-world savings on Denver hotels. WHERE TO SHOP LARIMER SQUARE Lower Downtown (LoDo) on Larimer between 14th and 15th Denver's urban shopping and dining district makes for the perfect beginning to a Denver shopping spree, with cutting-edge boutiques offering trendy clothing, handcrafted jewelry, chic bags and to-die-for shoes. DAIRY BLOCK 1800 Wazee St. Denver, CO 80202 Dairy Block is a vibrant, walkable micro-district located in the heart of Denver's beloved LoDo neighborhood. The area is dedicated to quality in all things and the craftsmanship that goes into small-batch, iconic and heritage brands. From delectable bites and beverages to personalized retail and small batch goods Dairy Block is a true Denver experience. CHERRY CREEK (CHERRY CREEK NORTH AND CHERRY CREEK SHOPPING CENTER) 3000 E. 1st Ave. Denver, CO 80206 and 2401 E. 2nd Ave. Denver, CO 80206 Located just minutes from downtown, Cherry Creek Shopping Center has more than 160 shops, with more than 40 stores exclusive to this area, including Zara, Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, Tory Burch and Burberry. Spend the day shopping, then head across the street to Cherry Creek North. The charming neighborhood offers a vibrant outdoor atmosphere and is home to a distinct mix of fashion boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and spas. ANTIQUE ROW South of Alameda on Broadway Vintage lovers should take a side trip to Antique Row, south of Alameda on Broadway, where you can dig through a whopping 18 blocks of antique shops, art galleries, indie boutiques and much more. Denver is a city of neighborhoods, each one with its own distinctive flavor. For even more shopping options, head to the Highlands, South Pearl Street or East Colfax. WHERE TO EXPLORE DENVER ART MUSEUM 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy. Denver, CO 80204 One of the largest art museums between Chicago and the West Coast, the Denver Art Museum (DAM) is dedicated to helping visitors explore art and creativity through hands-on activities, extensive art collections and world-class exhibitions. The Denver Art Museum's Hamilton Building is an architectural work of art. Designed by Daniel Libeskind, it will change the way you experience art and architecture. MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART DENVER 1485 Delgany St. Denver, CO 80202 Take in cutting-edge pieces at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Denver and soak in the sunshine on its fabulous rooftop patio afterward. MCA Denver is paving a new path for a 21st century museum that is advancing the field of contemporary art and providing a platform for creative expression, in the broadest sense of the term. MCA Denver is both sophisticated and unpretentious. CLYFFORD STILL MUSEUM 1250 Bannock St. Denver, CO 80204 Adjacent to the DAM, the new Clyfford Still Museum has international art aficionados talking - much of Still's iconoclastic abstract expressionist art has been locked away from view for decades. Denver's now the only place to see it! MEOW WOLF 1338 1st St. Denver, CO 80204 Meow Wolf Denver's Convergence Station is an immersive, interactive experience that will transport audiences of all ages into fantastic realms of story and exploration. Created by more than 300 collaborating artists, this 4-story exhibition is home to dozens of installations, rooms, portals and wormholes layered with interactivity. And don't miss the city's thriving art districts, where Denver's creative community lives and works. BASECAMP DENVER Denver is the perfect destination to play in the mountains then stay in the city. Take a day trip to the spectacular Rocky Mountain Front Range, including such natural wonders as Rocky Mountain National Park, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre and Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America. Wherever you go, don't forget the camera - the sights are to die for. After a full day of outdoor adventures, return to the city and enjoy a meal on an outdoor patio, grab a craft beer along the Denver Beer Trail or explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods. For those that prefer to maintain their adventure in an urban environment, the Denver metro area boasts more than 5,000 acres of traditional parks and parkways and endless trails for biking, running and urban hikes. Learn more about Denver's outdoor and urban adventure offerings here. WHERE TO EAT SAFTA 3330 Brighton Blvd., #201 Denver, CO 80216 Safta, from James Beard award-winning Chef Alon Shaya, brings you on a journey through food and beverage which pays homage to the culinary landscape of Israel. With influences that stem from the Middle East, Europe and North Africa, this menu reflects a collection of moments where food and culture have crossed paths, offering a taste of an ever-evolving cuisine. DENVER MILK MARKET 1800 Wazee St, Ste. 100 Denver, CO 80202 For a unique twist with tons of options, try the Denver Milk Market, cornerstone of the Dairy Block redevelopment, where all the takeout and dine-in restaurants and bars are run by one entity: Colorado chef Frank Bonanno and his restaurant group. The 16 concepts within the hall each have their own style and theme such as crepes, pizza, pasta, salads and seafood, plus there is a meat emporium, coffee house and wine shop to boot! TAVERNETTA 1889 16th St. Denver, CO 80202 Authentic Italian cuisine brought to you by the award-winning restaurateurs of Frasca Food and Wine and Pizzeria Locale. Inspired by regional classics, Tavernetta features fresh pastas, an all-Italian wine list, and small plates influenced from the culinary team's travels throughout Italy with unparalleled platform views of Denver's Union Station. For more options, see our Must-Try Restaurants. WHERE TO PLAY DENVER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS COMPLEX (DCPA) Denver Center for the Performing Arts is an exhilarating mix of Broadway tours, Tony-winning theatre, long-running cabaret shows, immersive plays, theatre for young audiences and spectacular rental facilities. Catch the latest ballet, play or comedy show for the next girl's night out. RIVER NORTH ART DISTRICT (RINO) The River North Art District "where art is made" goes by the nickname of "RiNo" and has even adopted a rhino design for its official logo. The district's interesting blend of urban charm and unique industrial revival makes it a great destination for visitors. RiNo boasts a diverse mix of creative businesses ranging from visual artists, designers and furniture makers to craft distillers and brewers, winemakers, creators of unique outdoor gear and small-batch coffee roasters. RED ROCKS PARK AND AMPHITHEATRE No trip to Denver is complete without visiting Red Rocks. Rolling Stone magazine calls it America's best amphitheater. Musical legends including the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, the Grateful Dead and the Rolling Stones have raved about it. And many a music fan will wistfully recount their first-ever Red Rocks concert. Although known for concerts, Red Rocks offers so much more such as Yoga on the Rocks, Film on the Rocks and amazing hiking. Learn more about all the ways to enjoy Red Rocks on the VISIT DENVER website. OPHELIA'S ELECTRIC SOAPBOX 1215 20th St. Denver, CO 80202 The latest addition to chef and restaurateur Justin Cucci's Edible Beats restaurant group which includes Root Down (a converted filling station) and Linger (a former mortuary) Ophelia's Electric Soapbox is also one of Denver's hottest dance spots. This "gastrobrothel" is housed in the historic Airedale building, which has been, at various times, a brothel, peep-show parlor and adult bookstore. Ophelia's history is celebrated in the sensual decor and on the large sunken stage and dance floor. NOCTURNE 1330 27th St. Denver, CO 80205 Tucked in an artfully restored warehouse in Denver's burgeoning RiNo Arts District lies Nocturne. Nocturne marries the culinary, cocktail and musical arts to create a singular, unforgettable experience. A modern jazz and supper club, Nocturne features live jazz nightly, carefully curated wine, beer and cocktail offerings and a one-of-a-kind seasonal three course menu for those enjoying dinner and a show. COCKTAIL BARS Denverites love their cocktail lounges and speakeasies, which may explain why we ignore the "It's five o'clock somewhere" expression and have no problem commencing cocktail hour at 4 p.m. and, when we feel like it, 3 p.m. Sometimes noon when it's warranted. And much like our restaurants, Denver's drinking parlors embrace seasonality, innovation, ambition and global concepts. For a glamorous night out, try Cooper Lounge at Denver Union Station or Cruise Room at the historic Oxford Hotel for bygone-era gimlets and gin martinis, sidecars and whiskey sours and a rush of history darting back to the late nineteenth century. Explore Denver's neighborhoods and grab drinks along the way, starting with Family Jones Spirit House, a Lower Downtown (LoHi) distillery, tasting room and restaurant glorified with purple-surfaced stools, plush old glory blue banquettes, concrete block walls mounted with pots flush with juniper, soaring windows and a sunken bar which showcases a skylight-illuminated copper still. Discover the golden era at Room for Milly, an extraordinarily evocative Platte Street cocktail emporium, named for a fictional, flapper-era dame who breezily sojourned around the world. It may be the most scintillating spot in the city to ponder the meaning of life, live, if only for a moment, somewhere else in time and sip brilliant cocktails in quarters suffused with effortless enchantment. About VISIT DENVER, The Convention & Visitors Bureau Celebrating 114 years of promoting The Mile High City, VISIT DENVER is a nonprofit trade association that contracts with the City of Denver to market Denver as a convention and leisure destination, increasing economic development in the city, creating jobs and generating taxes. Denver welcomed more than 31.7 million visitors in 2021, generating $6.6 billion in spending, while supporting tens of thousands of jobs and making Tourism one of the city's largest industries. Learn more about Denver on the VISIT DENVER website or at Tourism Pays Denver . Denver International Airport (DEN) is the No. 3 busiest airport in the world connecting The Mile High City to more than 200 destinations globally. Follow Denver's social media channels for up-to-the-minute updates on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , YouTube and LinkedIn . With press or photo inquiries, please contact: Jesse Davis: (720) 417-9621 or [email protected] Caroline Campbell: (303) 549-3537 or [email protected] Abby Schirmacher: (303) 358-0096 or [email protected] SOURCE VISIT DENVER, The Convention & Visitors Bureau ANN ARBOR, Mich., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of Michigan Credit Union (UMCU) is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra (A2SO) in launching Play It Forward, an inspiring month-long initiative aimed at collecting gently used instruments and monetary donations to support public school music programs in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. The campaign will run throughout June, and UMCU's Carpenter Road Branch (2621 Carpenter Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48108) and South State Street Branch (2725 South State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104) will serve as collection centers. The goal is to collect gently used instruments and raise $25,000 to fund much-needed repairs for currently unusable instruments. An Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra volunteer helps a youngster try out an instrument at a pop-up taster session (photo: A2SO). Highlighting the significance of this endeavor, Tyler Rindo, Estabrook Elementary Performance Arts teacher, emphasizes, "True equity in public education relies on intervention from people who truly believe in the cause. No one should be cheated from that right because of where they were born or where their family can afford to live. Ypsilanti Community Schools want to provide their community with the same opportunities as their peers from around the state. For our instrumental music program, that begins with high-quality functional instruments for our young musicians. The kindness and support of people who believe in access to high-quality music education will have life-changing results for our students." The Play It Forward drive will kick off with an event on Friday, June 2, at UMCU's South State Street location in Ann Arbor. Attendees will enjoy live music and various donation opportunities, creating an engaging atmosphere for community involvement. Tiffany Ford, UMCU's Chief Executive Officer, emphasizes that the partnership with A2SO aligns perfectly with UMCU's local philanthropic initiatives: "At UMCU, we believe in the transformative power of music education and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all students. Our collaboration with A2SO for the Play It Forward drive reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting our local public schools. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of students and foster a community that truly values the arts." For Sarah Calderini, Executive Director of A2SO, the partnership with UMCU presents a remarkable opportunity to significantly amplify A2SO's mission objectives. "Since our founding in 1928, we've remained dedicated to nurturing the next generation of audiences and performers. A critical aspect of this mission is dismantling barriers to entry and equipping every aspiring musician with the necessary tools to express themselves and create music. The exceptional educators at public schools across the region deserve our committed support, and the ability to repurpose used instrument donations and repair those currently held by schools creates an immediateand profoundly meaningfulimpact." More information on the drive can be found by visiting umcu.org . About the University of Michigan Credit Union: UMCU is the only credit union headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan. UMCU has more than 115,000 members, 1.3 billion in assets, and employs over 200 team members. UMCU has 17 branch locations located in three Metro Detroit counties, serving the financial needs of members throughout the state. UMCU is recognized as a valued employer and community partner, named a Top Workplace by Detroit Free Press, a National Best and Brightest Company To Work For, and one of America's Best Credit Unions in Each State by Forbes. In 2021, UMCU received the Arts + Business Partnership Award from the Americans for the Arts. For more information, visit UMCU.org or follow UMCU on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram. About the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra (A2SO): Launching their 95th concert season, the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra (A2SO) is one of the Midwest's premier regional orchestras, creating live, orchestral music for 70,000 listeners each year. They engage with the community through innovative and imaginative concert programming, educational programs, radio broadcasts, recordings, and online streaming. To find out more about the orchestra's events and initiatives, visit www.a2so.com . SOURCE University of Michigan Credit Union MENLO PARK, Calif. and NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Red Iron Group, a Menlo Park-based private investment firm, today announced a significant growth investment in Graphite Financial Group, LLC ("Graphite" or "the Company"). In connection with this announcement, Red Iron and Graphite also announced its acquisition of CPM Advisory Group, LLC ("CPM"), with CPM's business to be combined with Graphite. The three firms came together around a unified vision for driving Graphite's continued rapid expansion with enhanced investment in services, technology solutions and capabilities for its national client base. Graphite is a leading provider of fractional finance and accounting services focused on supporting early-stage and growth-stage businesses. The Company's acquisition of CPM will further expand its service portfolio with market-leading financial reporting, planning and analytics capabilities. Going forward, the combined business will continue to be led by Paul Bianco, Founder and CEO of Graphite, and both the Graphite and CPM teams will remain shareholders alongside Red Iron Group. As part of these transactions, Chris Mossa, Founder and CEO of CPM, has made a significant investment in the combined business and has joined Graphite's executive team. Significant Investment Builds on Market Leadership "The significant investment we received from Red Iron Group, along with the combination of CPM with Graphite, serves as a major inflection point in our company's ongoing development as a leading provider of fractional finance and accounting services for early-stage and growth-stage companies," said Paul Bianco. Mr. Bianco continued, "Red Iron is an ideal long-term equity partner for Graphite. With the financial backing, strategic relationships and growth planning expertise our partnership with Red Iron Group provides us, we are positioned to reinforce our founding vision: Being a trusted partner to entrepreneurs by providing deep insights and perspective gained from our best-in-class finance and accounting capabilities. We take great pride in being the partner of choice for entrepreneurs by providing them hands-on, thoughtful service and financial information, so they can fully focus on innovation and expansion. We are thrilled to partner with Red Iron and the CPM team to elevate Graphite's business and achieve our full potential." Founded in 2017 and headquartered in New York, NY, Graphite's core services include cost-effective bookkeeping, accounting, strategic finance and CFO-level advisory services to high-growth companies across sectors including SaaS, eCommerce, Web3, Fintech, Healthcare, Education, CPG, and Manufacturing. Unique Service Model Enables Company Founders to Focus on Growth Utilizing a fractional yet fully integrated engagement model, Graphite's team brings deep accounting, CFO and industry experience to its clients, enabling founders to focus on their people, products and customers. Leveraging best-in-class technology and domain expertise, Graphite enables clients to scale rapidly and make more informed, data-driven and timely financial decisions. "This represents an exciting new chapter for CPM, our clients and our employees," said Mr. Mossa. "This combination will allow us to leverage Graphite's world-class capabilities and resources, positioning us to build deeper partnerships with our clients across a broader service portfolio. We also feel strong cultural alignment with our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs in building great businesses and accelerating our founding vision of liberating founders from non-core, yet mission-critical functions." "We are delighted to support Graphite in reaching the next stage of its growth trajectory," said Ben Bisconti, Co-CEO of Red Iron Group. "We are committed to a thesis we share with Paul and the Graphite team around building a world-class business focused on delivering essential services to entrepreneurs as they themselves build great businesses. The opportunity to drive further success for the Company with the addition of Chris' world-class team and customer relationships is a great first step in our partnership with Graphite." The investment in Graphite is consistent with Red Iron Group's strategic focus on partnering with founders and operators building market-leading businesses with a focus on investing in service differentiation, technology enablement and selectively pursuing inorganic growth opportunities. About Graphite Financial Graphite Financial is a leading outsourced strategic finance and accounting partner for early-stage and growth-stage businesses. The team is composed of CFOs, accountants, investors and entrepreneurs who have helped hundreds of startups scale from seed through exit. Graphite goes far beyond bookkeeping, providing full accounting, financial modeling and FP&A capabilities, as well as tax and compliance services, to their clients. The Company offers a full finance department as a service at a fraction of the cost of hiring a team in-house. By leveraging top finance talent alongside a best-in-class scalable technology stack, Graphite delivers real-time reporting and actionable analytics to founders and operators focused on managing growth and scale. Graphite has been purpose-built to serve entrepreneurs and deliver excellence in finance and accounting to its partners. Learn more at www.graphitefinancial.com . About CPM Advisory Group CPM Advisory Group is a complete finance solution for early-stage and venture-backed startups. CPM's fractional finance department delivers high-caliber accounting and finance support to entrepreneurs and management teams building scalable, high-growth companies. The company's services support its clients in managing fundraising, capital allocation, reporting and financial and operational performance. CPM's comprehensive solution allows founders to focus on what matters most: their product, talent and customers. Learn more at www.cpmadvisory.com. About Red Iron Group Red Iron Group is a private investment firm that partners with business owners and managers who are passionate about building market-leading businesses. The firm helps businesses achieve increased scale and business value through investments in organic growth initiatives, strategic acquisitions and deeper customer relationships. Toward this end, Red Iron Group leverages its extensive Silicon Valley roots and helps its portfolio companies invest in and implement technology enablement and adoption strategies that deliver greater organic growth and operating efficiencies. Red Iron Group has established a uniquely long-term capital base with a strategy of focusing on profitably growing lower-middle-market companies across a wide range of sectors. Learn more at www.redirongroup.com. Media Contacts Joseph Kuo / Donald Cutler Haven Tower Group 424 317 4851 or 424 317 4864 [email protected] or [email protected] SOURCE Red Iron Group LIMA, Peru, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Republic of Peru ("Peru") announced today the commencement of offers to (i) exchange certain of Peru's outstanding sovereign bonds or bonos soberanos (the "Existing Bonos Soberanos"), including bonos soberanos in the form of Global Depositary Notes (each a "GDN") previously issued by Citibank, N.A., as depositary (the "Existing GDNs" together with the Existing Bonos Soberanos, the "Existing Bonds") for a new series of Sol-Denominated sovereign bonds or bonos soberanos due 2033 (the "New Bonos Soberanos") (including new GDNs (the "New GDNs" together with the New Bonos Soberanos, the "New Bonds")) (collectively, the "Exchange Offers" and each an "Exchange Offer") and/or (ii) purchase for cash the Existing Bonds (collectively, the "Cash Tender Offers", and each a "Cash Tender Offer"). The Exchange Offers and Cash Tender Offers are referred to collectively herein as the "Offers". The Offers are being conducted upon terms and subject to certain conditions set forth in the Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum dated May 31, 2023. Peru commenced a separate offer to purchase (the "USD Tender Offers") certain of Peru's outstanding 7.350% U.S. Dollar-Denominated Global Bonds due 2025, 2.392% U.S. Dollar-Denominated Global Bonds due 2026, 4.125% U.S. Dollar-Denominated Global Bonds due 2027, 2.844% U.S. Dollar-Denominated Global Bonds due 2030, and 2.783% U.S. Dollar-Denominated Global Bonds due 2031, on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in a separate offer to purchase (the "USD Bond Offer Document"). The USD Bond Offers will be subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the USD Bond Offer Document. To request offering materials relating to the USD Bond Tender Offers, please contact the Tender, Exchange and Information Agent, whose information is listed below. In the Cash Tender Offers, the price (the "Purchase Price") payable per S/1,000 principal amount for each series of Existing Bonds, that are tendered by holders and accepted pursuant to the Offers is provided in the table below. In the Exchange Offers, the exchange consideration (the "Exchange Consideration") offered for each S/1,000 principal amount of Existing Bonds is the applicable principal amount of New Bonds to be announced by Peru as soon as reasonably practicable after the pricing of the New Bonds being concurrently offered for cash, via a press release to the news media. The coupon for the New Bonds will be announced at the same time. In the Exchange Offers, Existing Bonds in the form of bonos soberanos may only be exchanged for New Bonds in the form of bonos soberanos, and Existing Bonds in the form of GDNs may only be exchanged for New Bonds in the form of GDNs. Existing Bonds Outstanding Aggregate Principal Amount as of May 31, 2023 (1) Purchase Price(2)(4) Exchange Consideration(2)(4) 5.200% Bonos Soberanos due 2023 S/ 1,309,373,000 S/1,000.00 To be announced. 5.200% GDNs due 2023(3) S/999.00 To be announced. 5.700% Bonos Soberanos due 2024 S/6,740,798,000 S/998.75 To be announced. 5.700% GDNs due 2024(3) S/997.75 To be announced. 8.200% Bonos Soberanos due 2026 S/12,516,553,000 S/1,061.25 To be announced. 8.200% GDNs due 2026(3) S/1,060.25 To be announced. 6.350% Bonos Soberanos due 2028 S/16,625,287,000 S/992.50 To be announced. 6.350% GDNs due 2028(3) S/991.50 To be announced. (1) These amounts may include Existing Bonds held by institutions and companies controlled by the Peruvian Government that have not been cancelled. (2) Purchase Price or Exchange Consideration per S/1,000 principal amount of the Existing Bonos Soberanos validly tendered and accepted for purchase or exchange, as applicable. (3) Issued by Citibank, N.A., as the depositary. (4) Each GDN represents one Bono Soberano of S/1,000 in principal amount. The Purchase Prices of Existing GDNs reflect fees associated with the cancellation of the Existing GDNs payable to Citibank, N.A., as the depositary. The Exchange Consideration for the Existing GDNs will not reflect such fees. Pursuant to the Cash Tender Offers, Existing Bonds in the form of bonos soberanos that are accepted for purchase will be paid for in Soles, and Existing Bonds in the form of GDNs that are accepted for purchase will be paid for in U.S. dollars. Holders whose Existing Bonds are validly exchanged or tendered and accepted for exchange or purchase pursuant to the Offers will also receive an amount in cash equal to any accrued and unpaid interest on their Existing Bonds, up to (but excluding) the Settlement Date. The Purchase Price, Accrued Interest (as defined in the Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum) and Cash Rounding Amount (as defined in the Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum), as applicable, of the Existing Bonds tendered and accepted in the form of GDNs will be calculated by converting the applicable Soles amounts to U.S. dollars, at the average rate between the bid price (compra) and the offer price (venta) of the exchange rate published by the Superintendencia de Banca, Seguros y AFP on its website (http://www.sbs.gob.pe) at the close of business on the business day prior to the Expiration Deadline, as adjusted for three decimals. THE OFFERS WILL COMMENCE AT APPROXIMATELY 8:00 A.M., NEW YORK CITY TIME, ON MAY 31, 2023. UNLESS EXTENDED OR EARLIER TERMINATED. THE OFFERS EXPIRE AT 5:00 P.M., NEW YORK CITY TIME, ON JUNE 6, 2023. Each offer to exchange and each tender for purchase any series of Existing Bonds is made as a separate, independent offer. The Offers are not conditioned upon any minimum participation of any series of Existing Bonds. Peru reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, not to accept any and all Existing Bonds tendered in any Exchange Offer or Cash Tender Offer in respect of one or more series of Existing Bonds, and any Offer may be subject to proration at the sole discretion of Peru. In addition, Peru reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion to modify in any manner, any of the terms and conditions of the Offers. Peru will determine a Maximum Exchange Amount and a Maximum Purchase Amount for the Exchange Offers and Cash Tender Offers, respectively, as part of this process. Tenders and exchanges of Existing GDNs must be submitted through a direct participant in the Depository Trust Company ("DTC"), Euroclear or Clearstream Banking Societe Anonyme ("Clearstream") systems, as applicable. Tenders of Existing Bonos Soberanos are to be made by holders to the Ministerio de Economia y Finanzas ("MEF") account under reference code 426 at CAVALI S.A. ICLV ("CAVALI"), all in accordance with the procedures specified in the Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum. Existing GDNs tendered pursuant to the Offers may only be withdrawn prior to the Withdrawal Deadline in accordance with the procedures specified in the Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum. If any holder wishes to tender or exchange its Existing GDNs pursuant to the Offers, the direct participant through which such holder holds its Existing GDNs must submit, prior to the Expiration Deadline to tender or exchange Existing GDNs, by properly instructing DTC through the DTC Automated Tender Offer Program ("ATOP"). Tenders or exchanges of Existing GDNs must be submitted through a direct participant in DTC. Tenders and exchanges of Existing Bonos Soberanos must be made by holders to the MEF account at CAVALI, under reference code 426 and the MEF and Santander Peru must be notified of such tender or exchange. Tendering and exchanging holders are responsible for arranging the delivery of their notes through CAVALI's WARI platform. Peru is making the Offers only in those jurisdictions where it is legal to do so. The Offers are void in all jurisdictions where such Offers are prohibited. If materials relating to the Offers come into your possession, you are required by Peru to inform yourself of and to observe all of these restrictions. The New Bonds have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") or any state securities laws. Accordingly, the Offers will only be directed, and copies of the offering documents will only be made available, to a holder of the Existing Bonds who has certified its status as (1) a "qualified institutional buyer" in reliance on Rule 144A under the Securities Act or (2) outside of the United States of America non-U.S persons in offshore transactions in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act. Terms used in this paragraph have the meanings given to them by Rule 144A and Regulation S under the Securities Act. Only holders who have properly completed and submitted the Eligibility Certification are authorized to receive and review the Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum. Holders may obtain the Eligibility Certification by contacting the Tender, Exchange and Information Agent per its contact details below. The materials relating to the Offers do not constitute, and may not be used in connection with, an offer or solicitation in any place where offers or solicitations are not permitted by law. FURTHER INFORMATION The Tender, Exchange and Information Agent for the Offers is: Global Bondholder Services Corporation 65 Broadway Suite 404 New York, NY 10006 United States of America Attention: Corporate Actions Banks and Brokers call: (212) 430-3774 Toll free: (855) 654-2014 Email: [email protected] https://gbsc-usa.com/eligibility/peru The Peruvian Market Maker for the Offers is: Banco Santander Peru S.A. Av. Rivera Navarrete 475 Piso 14, San Isidro, Lima, Peru Email: [email protected] The Issuer for the Offers is: Ministerio de Economia y Finanzas del Peru Jr. Junin No. 319 Lima, Peru Email: [email protected] DISCLAIMER The Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum is not for release, publication or distribution to any person located or resident in any jurisdiction where it is unlawful to distribute the Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum. Persons into whose possession any Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum comes are required by Peru, the Dealer Managers and the Tender, Exchange and Information Agent to inform themselves about, and to observe, any such restrictions. This announcement is neither an offer to purchase nor the solicitation of an offer to sell any of the securities described herein, nor shall there be any offer or sale of such securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The Offers are made solely pursuant to the Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum dated the date hereof. This announcement is for distribution only to persons who (i) have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended, the "Order"), (ii) are persons falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) ("high net worth companies, unincorporated associations etc.") of the Order, (iii) are persons falling within Article 43 of the Order, (iv) are outside the United Kingdom, or (v) are persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000) may otherwise lawfully be communicated or caused to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). This announcement is directed only at relevant persons and must not be acted on or relied on by persons who are not relevant persons. Any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to relevant persons and is to be engaged in only with relevant persons. This announcement must be read in conjunction with the Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum. This announcement and the Exchange and Tender Offering Memorandum contain important information which should be read carefully before any decision is made with respect to any Offer. If any holder of Existing Bonos Soberanos is in any doubt as to the action it should take, it is recommended that such holder seek its own financial and legal advice, including as to any tax consequences, immediately from its stockbroker, bank manager, attorney, accountant or other independent financial or legal adviser. None of Peru, the Dealer Managers or the Tender, Exchange and Information Agent makes any recommendation as to whether holders of Existing Bonds should tender Existing Bonds or participate in the Offers. This announcement contains forward-looking statements and information that is necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. No assurance can be given that the transactions described herein will be consummated or as to the terms of any such transactions. Peru assumes no obligation to update or correct the information contained in this announcement. SOURCE The Republic of Peru The plumbing and HVAC company has used the format to promote topics within the skilled trades industry and tackle customer and employee concerns regarding home service LOS ANGELES, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- When Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air, a plumbing and HVAC company serving residential and commercial locations in California and Arizona, launched its HeroTalk podcast in May of 2022, it hoped the format would give its experts a chance to talk directly to and with others personally affected by the skilled trades industry. Now, with nearly 50 episodes and a year of episodes under its belt, its hosts have discussed everything from Rooter Hero cofounder and CEO John Akhoian's life lessons to the traits of rockstar employees and managing customer expectations. Rooter Hero's podcast, HeroTalk, turns a year old this month. Its hosts have used the format to promote topics within the skilled trades industry and tackle customer and employee concerns. "HeroTalk has been a fanatic conduit to provide information, advice and hot takes to our audience," Akhoian said. "We've tried to keep the topic list diverse while still discussing things that should appeal to both employees within the industry and to customers who are looking to learn more about skilled trades and what we do." The podcast features Rooter Hero Contact Center Manager David Powers and Social Media Coordinator Katherine "Kat" Conchas. Powers and Conches have already interviewed several company experts and given their opinions on a variety of thought-provoking topics, including "7 Cardinal Rules for Directors of First Impressions" and "Stacking Weaknesses (And Why You Shouldn't Do That)." "The goal of this podcast has always been to be both informative and entertaining," Powers said. "We've made it our mission to keep the topics fresh and offer a new perspective on issues that most podcasts don't provide. This way our discussions are always lively and hold the listener's interest. After a year, we're proud of what we've accomplished." The podcast airs every Thursday and is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Amazon and Spotify. About Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air Since 2011, Rooter Hero has been committed to providing the best in plumbing and drain services. With more than 100 years of plumbing heritage, the Rooter Hero team prides themselves on creating a memorable experience for each customer. The company provides solutions for both residential and commercial needs and offers 24/7 emergency service. Operating in service area locations throughout California and Arizona, Rooter Hero offers options such as HVAC service and installation in select areas. For more information, please visit https://rooterhero.com or call 844-219-2215. MEDIA CONTACT: Heather Ripley Ripley PR (865) 977-1973 [email protected] SOURCE Rooter Hero NEW YORK, May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities Trinseo PLC (NYSE: TSE) between May 3, 2021 and March 27, 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 Trinseo 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 Trinseo class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=13711 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, defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Trinseo's Bristol, Pennsylvania plant had a troubled safety record while under prior ownership and continued to be unsafe after the Company acquired it; (2) defendants did not sufficiently disclose specific risks related to conducting operations at that plant; (3) operating a chemical plant with an unsafe history and presently unsafe operations exposed Trinseo to a heightened risk of a chemical spill or other adverse event; 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 times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the Trinseo class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=13711 mailto:or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.rosenlegal.com SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A. The Swedish-born Sana scaleup becomes one of Europe's most highly funded AI companies with $62M in total Series B funding STOCKHOLM, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sana, the leading AI-powered learning and knowledge platform, announced today it's landed another $28M in an opportunistic investment round led by NEA. Workday Ventures also joined the round. With a combined total of $62M in Series B funding, the Swedish-born scaleup is now one of the most highly funded AI companies. Sana's mission is to augment human intelligence through artificial intelligence. To that end, the company has built a category-defining product that blends the best of enterprise search, a learning management system, meeting tools, and a knowledge management system into one single platform. Underpinning this suite of tools is Sana AI, the company's latest release. Sana AI is an omnipresent assistant that can do everything from search across all your company's apps and take actions in response to natural language commands to generating real-time summaries of live meetings and creating entire learning courses from scratch and writing SQL to query your data. In other words, it's like ChatGPT for your company's knowledge. By augmenting an organization's ability to capture, organize, and access knowledge at every step through AI, Sana enables any team to move faster and be more productivefrom sales and customer support teams to product specialists and software engineers. "At Sana, we believe every organization's mission depends on the collective intelligence of its employees. That intelligence depends on knowledge, yet most institutional knowledge today is scattered across multiple tools, trapped in people's minds, and lost in verbal conversations. AI is the key to solving this problem at scale. By unlocking knowledge for every employee across any organization, we unlock global progress," said Joel Hellermark, Founder and CEO of Sana. "We're thrilled to have the support from NEA and strategic investors like Workday Ventures on this mission." Sana wasn't looking for funding when NEA made its proactive offer. The scaleup had a healthy runway having closed a $34M Series B round led by Menlo Ventures last December. One of the reasons for the additional investor interest is commercial performance: Sana has grown its business 3x year over year. NEA will be represented on Sana's board by CEO Scott Sandell and Managing Director Philip Chopin. Since joining NEA in 1996, Sandell has played a critical role in many industry-transforming businesses, including Robinhood, Salesforce, Tableau Software, and Workday. "Sana's past track record and current trajectory are exceptional. Thanks to top talent, bold vision, and rare organizational alignment, we believe they've already built a world-class learning and knowledge platform. But what excites us most is where Sana is going next: indexing every form of an organization's functional data through LLMs to become the de-facto AI platform for the enterprise. The use cases for this type of product are endless," said Scott Sandell, CEO at NEA. In addition to Sana's commercial growth and ambitious team, NEA was impressed by the level of customer advocacy. The platform is used by an impressive client roster of market-leading companies like Merck, Kry/Livi, and Svea Solarall of whom praise Sana's superior user experience and product velocity. "Since day one, we've been amazed at Sana's pace of innovation and commitment to addressing customer feedback. The platform is more than a toolit's become Svea Solar's home for learning and knowledge. We see the latest iteration of Sana AI as a productivity game-changer," said Hanna Manberg, CHRO at Svea Solar. With the additional funding, Sana will continue expanding its product development and commercial teams across Stockholm, London, and New York offices. Sana's headquarters will remain in Stockholm, where founder and CEO Joel Hellermark founded the company aged 19, six years after teaching himself to code in C. "Joel is an exceptional founder. This Series B extension is a testament to his technical and commercial prowess and visionary leadership. As we enter the new age of artificial intelligence, we believe the Sana team is well positioned to become one of the world's most successful and impactful AI companies," said Philip Chopin, Managing Director at NEA UK. About Sana Sana is an AI-powered learning platform that empowers organizations to find, share, and harness the knowledge they need to achieve their missions. Backed by some of the world's leading investors, operators, and founders, Sana has raised more than $85M to date. The company's headquarters are in Stockholm, Sweden, with offices in London and New York. For more information, head to www.sanalabs.com . Sana Contact Jon Lexa [email protected] About NEA New Enterprise Associates, Inc. (NEA) is a global venture capital firm focused on helping entrepreneurs build transformational businesses across multiple stages, sectors and geographies. Founded in 1977, NEA has over $25 billion in assets under management, as of March 31, 2023, and invests in technology and healthcare companies at all stages in a company's lifecycle, from seed stage through IPO. The firm's long track record of investing includes more than 270 portfolio company IPOs and more than 450 mergers and acquisitions. For more information, please visit www.nea.com . SOURCE NEA KRAKOW, Poland, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Selvita S.A. [WSE: SLV], one of the largest contract research organization companies in Europe, has published a financial report for Q1 2023*. The Group is growing despite the demanding market, taking on numerous actions to strengthen sales and optimize the business. In Q1 2023, Selvita Group (excl. Ardigen) generated EUR 19.5 million in revenues, up by 9% y/y. The EBITDA profit in this period reached EUR 4.1 million , which translates into a margin of 20.8%. Thus, the Group has generated better results than the estimates published in March (revenues in the range of 4-7%, EBITDA margin in the range of 19-21%). in revenues, up by 9% y/y. The EBITDA profit in this period reached , which translates into a margin of 20.8%. Thus, the Group has generated better results than the estimates published in March (revenues in the range of 4-7%, EBITDA margin in the range of 19-21%). As previously announced, the Company is undertaking numerous business development activities, focusing on markets and clients with the largest potential and research budgets. Since the beginning of 2023, Selvita has been gradually strengthening its sales forces in the United States and Europe . and . The Company opened its new Selvita Research Centre in Krakow. The new location will provide a workplace for approximately 250 scientists, thus significantly increasing Selvita' capabilities to provide the highest quality services in the area of drug discovery. The investment is a significant milestone in the Company's development and creates a foundation for further organic growth of the Company. Selvita's backlog for 2023 amounts to EUR 51.7 million (as of May 28, 2023 ) and is 2% higher than the value reported a year earlier (as of May 24, 2022 ). The Company observes increased caution among its clients, resulting in the orders being concluded for shorter periods, which has a significant impact on the presented backlog in the first half of the year. (as of ) and is 2% higher than the value reported a year earlier (as of ). The Company observes increased caution among its clients, resulting in the orders being concluded for shorter periods, which has a significant impact on the presented backlog in the first half of the year. The company continues to implement numerous optimizations and enforce its savings policy, which should have a positive impact on margins both in 2023 and in the longer term. - We are very glad that the first quarter turned out to be better than expected. We continue focusing on activities aimed at increasing the revenue base, while paying great attention to our expenses. Our priority remains to return to the revenue dynamics and margins levels to which our investors have become accustomed. We have a strong scientific team on board and infrastructure to support further development, comments Bogusaw Sieczkowski, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Selvita. - The market we operate in remains demanding, however, as already announced, we expect an increase in contracting dynamics in the second half of the year. Industry reports indicate that both pharma and biotech companies have high cash reserves and, statistically, increasing amount of research work is outsourced to subcontractors. However, there are many indications that due to the slowdown in financing the sector, they are more careful with their budgets, - comments Dr. Milosz Gruca, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Selvita. While in the pandemic years - 2020-2021 - financing of the global biopharmaceutical sector more than doubled, in 2022 it returned to the levels from 2019. Most of the capital dedicated to the drug discovery and development (over 70%) went to companies on the U.S. market. In Europe, the British market stands out positively. Selvita is very active on both of these markets, taking advantage of the local sales offices in the largest biotechnology hubs. - We have intensified sales activities and strengthened the BD team, acquiring several experienced specialists operating in the most promising markets - in particular in the United States. We strongly focus on Big Pharma companies. At the same time, in the coming quarters, we expect the extension of numerous orders which some customers contracted exceptionally for a shorter than usual period, - adds Dr. Gruca. FINANCIAL RESULTS AND MARKET ENVIRONMENT - In 2023 the cost base will be higher than in 2022, mainly due to the increase in employment in 2022 and the costs related to the launch of the new building. Despite the pressure on margins, we maintain a very good financial position and low debt ratios. We focus on increasing revenues and optimizations that will have a positive impact on Selvita's finances in both the short and long term, adds Dariusz Kurdas, Chief Financial Officer at Selvita. In Q1 2023, Selvita generated EUR 18.9 million in revenues from commercial services, up by 9% y/y and more than the preliminary estimates of 4-7% as published in March. Drug discovery services provided by Selvita generated EUR 15.5 million (an increase of 5% y/y) and accounted for 82% of revenues from commercial services provided by the Company. Services provided in the area of regulatory research accounted for the remaining part of commercial revenues and amounted to EUR 3.4 million (up 29% y/y). The EBITDA profit in Q1 2023 amounted to EUR 4.1 million compared to EUR 5.4 million a year earlier. The EBITDA margin reached 20.8%, i.e. in the upper range of the 19-21% estimations made by the Company in March. There are many indications that in 2023 the dynamics of contracting between quarters will be different than usual. Selvita's backlog for 2023 amounts to EUR 51.7 million (as of May 28, 2023) and is 2% higher than the value reported a year earlier (as of May 24, 2022), despite the demanding market and high base. The company expects contracting to accelerate in the second half of the year. *The results do not include non-cash costs of the non-dilutive incentive program for employees. Backlog as of May 28, 2023. About Selvita Selvita is one of the largest preclinical contract research organizations in Europe, driven by a clear mission: to offer a comprehensive scope of services bridging the gap between early drug discovery and the clinical stage of drug development. Selvita provides comprehensive solutions supporting Clients and their drug discovery projects, across a broad range of therapeutic areas, specializing in infectious diseases, inflammation, fibrosis, and oncology. The Company offers a range of stand-alone or fully integrated drug discovery and development solutions spanning the entire value chain from early drug discovery to preclinical development. On top of that Selvita also offers analytical support of drug development and contract testing studies. Selvita, established in 2007, operates globally with almost 900 highly qualified employees, of which over 40% hold a PhD degree. The Company's research sites are in Krakow (HQ), Poznan, Poland, and Zagreb, Croatia. The international offices are located in Cambridge, MA, and San Francisco Bay Area, in the U.S., as well as in Cambridge, UK. Ardigen, a bioinformatics company harnessing advanced Artificial Intelligence methods for novel precision medicine, is part of Selvita Group portfolio of companies. The company employs over 180 professionals. Selvita is listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange (WSE: SLV). For more information, please see www.selvita.com Contact: Natalia Baranowska | Selvita +48 784 069 418 [email protected] SOURCE Selvita S.A. Nine months after announcing plans to open its first $75 million U.S. manufacturing plant, a Canadian-based maker of lithium-ion batteries is seeking more than $3 million in tax breaks for its transformation of a vacant former manufacturing plant outside Jamestown. The Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency would be on top of more than $6.5 million in state grants that it already won. Sign up for the Buffalo Next free newsletter The News' Buffalo Next team covers the changing Buffalo Niagara economy. Get the news in your inbox 5 days a week. Mississauga-based Electrovaya Inc. wants to renovate and equip a 134,858-square-foot manufacturing facility in the Town of Ellicott that has been empty since Heidenhain closed an electronics and optics factory in 2018 and cut 40 jobs. The facility would serve as a new "gigafactory" for the company's production and distribution of ceramic battery cells and packs, while creating 150 new jobs over the next three years, according to its CCIDA application. It's expected to produce more than one gigawatt-hour of battery and energy storage systems over the next five years. That would add to the company's two factories in Canada and would address rising demand for its batteries, which are used in electric forklifts, trucks, robots, buses and other heavy-duty vehicles. About 90% of Electrovaya's sales are in the U.S. market, so the new facility will not only be closer to customers logistically, but can also enable the company to compete for business that requires that products be made in America. And the facility at 1 Precision Way in the Town of Ellicott is large enough for the company to expand production as needed, with additional land to build on down the road. Electrovaya plans $75 million lithium-ion battery plant in Chautauqua County Electrovaya, a publicly traded company based in Mississauga, Ont., said it had chosen a former manufacturing plant near Jamestown for the project. The company completed its $5 million purchase of the 52-acre site in March from Sustainable Energy Jamestown, and plans to spend about $1 million on a renovation of the plant, which has the clean rooms that Electrovaya needs. It will then invest at least $34.5 million to purchase the battery assembly, research, testing and logistical equipment, machinery and furniture for the new operation. It's also spending $2 million on professional fees. Plans call for site preparation work, electrical infrastructure improvements and initial assembly installation during the current quarter, followed by commissioning of the equipment through yearend. Production would begin later this year or early next year. Electrovaya said it expects to hire for management, professional, administrative, production, supervisory and labor jobs, with salaries ranging from $35,000 to $100,000 and a full-time annual payroll of $9.2 million after three years. "In addition to high-quality job creation, this expansion project is well-aligned with initiatives across Chautauqua County to foster renewable energy and manufacturing for clean technology," the company added. The $42.5 million project as laid out in the application for tax breaks appears to be scaled back from the initial announcement last October, when Electrovaya and state officials unveiled the project, highlighting plans for the much larger investment and creation of up to 250 jobs. The project will be funded with $32 million in private loans, a $4.5 million conventional mortgage and $3.5 million in company equity. It was approved for up to $4 million in Excelsior Jobs tax credits from Empire State Development Corp., and another $2.5 million in capital funding from the state through the Western New York Regional Economic Development Council. It will also receive low-cost hydropower from New York Power Authority. But it still says it needs the CCIDA help "for the venture to be economically feasible," and to "assist in accelerating plans for expansion." It's asking for $2.4 million in sales tax breaks, $62,250 in mortgage-recording tax relief and a 15-year payment-in-lieu-of-taxes that will save $572,639, with a fixed-payment per year that deviates from the agency's standard policy. The CCIDA is expected to take up the application in June. ATLANTA, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ServiceMaster Recovery Management , a provider of global commercial restoration services, today announced they are expanding their facilities to Canada with the addition of seven new locations strategically located to service the entire country. This brings ServiceMaster's facilities to over 400 commercially certified locations across North America. US and CANADA SRM MAP "We are thrilled to be growing as a company and this expansion serves as a testament to our dedication to our customers," said Daniel Loosemore, director of ServiceMaster Restore Canada. "The investment in adding the seven new Canadian facilities creates an enhanced ability to provide our services to more clients in a broader range of geographies. We are looking forward to providing the same service, commitment, and expertise that our current clients have come to expect." SRM has provided emergency restoration services for decades. The company is in a great position to continue expansion. The new locations will provide more opportunities for ServiceMaster Recovery Management to connect with local Canadian commercial clients. "We are pleased to offer ServiceMaster's enhanced experience and expertise to our Canadian customers," added John Tovar, president of ServiceMaster Restore. "Today, our company is a trusted industry leader, and it will continue to be a premier provider of disaster recovery services across Northern America. - We currently serve more than 10.5 million customers globally, and we are thrilled for the opportunity to help more businesses get back to normal after a disaster." While no one can predict the future, everyone can prepare. Protect your business by adding your name to the list for priority service so that you're ready when disaster strikes. Whether your business is interested in planning ahead or has already experienced the unfortunate circumstance of damage by weather, fire, smoke, wind, or mould, contact Dan Loosemore at [email protected]. About ServiceMaster Recovery Management ServiceMaster Recovery Management is among the nearly 1,000 franchised and licensed ServiceMaster Restore locations around the world. ServiceMaster Restore and ServiceMaster Recovery Management (SRM) serve customers through a global network of franchises available 24/7/365 to provide residential and commercial restoration services resulting from damage caused by water, fire, smoke or mold. SRM is the large-scale commercial catastrophic disaster restoration unit of ServiceMaster Restore. ServiceMaster Restore and SRM are business units of Atlanta-based ServiceMaster Brands, a leading franchise provider of needs-based residential and commercial services. More information can be found at srmcat.com . Media Contact: Lizzy Hill Brand Marketing Manager | ServiceMaster Brands [email protected] SOURCE ServiceMaster Brands NEW YORK, May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Comerica Incorporated ("Comerica" or the "Company") (NYSE: CMA). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether Comerica and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] On May 29, 2023, citing a review of "internal documents," American Banker reported that "Comerica Bank officials privately acknowledged significant compliance failures in their operation of a Treasury Department program that provides federal benefits on prepaid cards to millions of unbanked Americans[.]" American Banker stated that "[a] Comerica executive said the Dallas bank faced a 'serious contract violation' for allowing fraud disputes and data on Direct Express and cardholders to be handled out of a vendor's office in Lahore, Pakistan[.]" On this news, Comerica's stock fell $1.40 per share, or 3.59% to close at $37.59 per share on May 30, 2023. Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com. CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP [email protected] 888-476-6529 ext. 7980 SOURCE Pomerantz LLP GOTHENBURG, Sweden, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SKF today announces a consolidation of its spherical roller bearing manufacturing to secure the long-term competitiveness on the European markets. The consolidation is also in line with the Group's strategy to invest in automation and regionalization, and accordingly rightsize its manufacturing operations in Europe. Consequently, SKF proposes to cease its bearing manufacturing site in Luton, UK. Manufacturing at the site in Luton would be ramped down, with a full closure anticipated by the end of 2024. Production is proposed to be moved to SKF's factory in Poznan, Poland. Aldo Cedrone, Acting President, Industrial Region Europe Middle East and Africa, says: "Although it is a difficult decision to make, this is an important step in securing our long-term competitiveness on the European markets. To ensure that our spherical roller bearing production stays competitive, investments are needed in new machinery and our evaluation showed Poznan is the optimum site for this investment. Our immediate focus is to support our colleagues in Luton." The Luton factory currently employs approximately 300 people. The proposed activities are subject to consultation with employees and union representatives and SKF is fully committed to engaging with employees and their representatives throughout the consultation process. Aktiebolaget SKF (publ) For further information, please contact: PRESS: Carl Bjernstam, Acting SKF Media & Press Director tel: 46 31-337 2517; mobile: 46 722-201 893; e-mail: [email protected] INVESTOR RELATIONS: Patrik Stenberg, Head of Investor Relations tel: 46 31-337 2104; mobile: 46 705-472 104; [email protected] The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/637/3777614/2096544.pdf 20230531 SKF consolidates manufacturing in Europe, proposes to close factory in Luton https://news.cision.com/skf/i/narbild-lager,c3184286 narbild lager https://news.cision.com/skf/i/aldocedrone,c3184287 AldoCedrone SOURCE SKF The new and expanded summer edition of Skyscanner's Savings Generator reveals travellers could save up to 10% on the cost of their flights this summer by flying on the cheapest week, meaning an average saving of up to AED760 for a family of four! 91% of UAE travellers say they would be willing to change the day and/ or week of their summer holiday to a different time to save money DUBAI, UAE, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Skyscanner's latest research, in association with OnePoll, almost all (91%) UAE travellers are planning to get away this summer, but nearly half (48%) have yet to book their summer getaway. Whilst almost all (91%) of UAE travellers share that they feel confident that they know how to find the best holiday deals, Skyscanner data shows that only 4% of UAE travellers are searching for trips during the cheapest week of summer. In response, global travel site Skyscanner has launched the new and expanded summer edition of its Savings Generator tool to help travellers save big this summer.** Destination Jordan (PRNewsfoto/Skyscanner) Whether you've yet to book your trip or are tempted to book another holiday this summer (3 in 4 UAE travellers are tempted to book again if the price is right!). Skyscanner's Savings Generator is on hand to find you the cheapest week of the summer to travel to a selection of the most popular routes from the UAE including the UK, India, Maldives and the Philippines. The global travel site currently searches over 80 billion prices every single day, so Skyscanner's experts have crunched the numbers to share some simple dos and don'ts for grabbing the best bargain this summer: 1. Travel the last week of the school summer holidays (instead of the first) and save 10% Despite half of UAE travellers (50%) sharing that they know that there are cheaper weeks of the summer holidays to travel, Skyscanner can reveal that only 4% of UAE searches are for the cheapest of the summer/school holidays. According to our data, the first two weeks of the school holidays are by far the most popular weeks to head away this summer, however, this is in fact the most expensive time to travel. Skyscanner's data shows that on average travellers can save 10% by travelling the week of 19 August versus start of July, meaning an average saving of AED760 for a family of four! 2. Want to save big this summer? Travel on a Friday (most of the time)! Travellers who are flexible and can fly on less popular days of the week can save up to 35% on the cost of their flights this July and August, according to Skyscanner's summer Savings Generator. An added bonus? The airports are likely to be less crowded too! As 90% of UAE travelers share they would be willing to change the day and/or week of their summer holidays to save this year. For instance, flying to Turkiye on a Friday, instead of a Saturday, means a family of four can save up AED669 on average for their return travel this July and August. 3. There are still cheap deals just search EVERYWHERE for the very best prices UAE residents yet to book their summer trips estimate flights will cost AED431 per person on average, however Skyscanner can reveal deals to holiday favourites including Georgia from AED274 return, Israel from AED344 return, Cyprus from AED348 and Jordan from AED359 return this August.*** Let Skyscanner's algorithm find the cheapest deal just type in 'Everywhere' with your travel dates! 4. UAE residents can save Dirhams by switching their departure airport Flight prices from UAE airports airport's will vary in price for destinations depending on a number of factors such as which airlines are based there and which routes they serve, meaning some will be busier than others at peak times. Using Skyscanner's Nearby Airports filter is an easy way to compare your options. Save AED13,828 on a trip to Italy for a family of four on return flights to Rome during the month of August (from Abu Dhabi for AED586 per person versus from Dubai for AED4,043 per person). Commenting on the findings, Skyscanner's Travel Expert Ayoub El Mamoun says: "We know how much UAE travellers look forward to and research their summer holiday break this year more so than any! It's therefore our duty to analyse all the data we have access to and share this insight via our Savings Generator, updated for Summer 2023 so UAE travellers know how to make their money go further this summer. "Our research shows that over half of UAE travellers (58%) make sacrifices, including spending fewer meals out, takeaway coffees and new clothes, in order to save for their summer holidays, but are less likely to shop around for holidays in the way they would when doing their weekly shop or clothes. We're aware that the summer holidays can be a costly time to travel, so we've updated our Savings Generator to help UAE travellers easily see how to get away within budget this summer. "There's so much money to be saved if consumers compare their travel options, so we're building the tools for travellers to do this quickly and easily. We encourage all travellers to take note of our savvy tips and utilise the tools on our site like our Calendar View and Everywhere Search to save big this summer." Notes to editors: Saudi Arabia data is also available on request! Insights Deep Dive: Skyscanner x OnePoll research conducted May 2023 with 1000 UAE respondents Whilst almost all (91%) of UAE travellers are planning to get away this summer, half (50%) have yet to book their summer getaway. Of those yet to book, half (54%) cited that they're still deciding on dates, whilst 49% are waiting to find the best deal. UAE travellers yet to book their summer trip estimate flights will cost AED431pp on average, however Skyscanner can reveal deals to holiday favourites including Georgia from AED274 return, Israel from AED344 return, Cyprus from AED348 and Jordan from AED359 return this August. from AED274 return, from AED344 return, from AED348 and from AED359 return this August. 91% of UAE travellers say they would be willing to change the day and/ or week of their summer holiday to a different time to save money 42% of UAE travellers would change airlines to save money How does Skyscanner calculate the savings shown as part of the Savings Generator? Skyscanner has analysed tens of thousands of booking data points over the last 12 months, drawn from 10 origin countries to their top 30 destinations, looking at metrics such as average seat price, cheapest week of the summer holiday to travel, best and worst days to travel and the associated cost and the best time to book. The data used includes: Average monthly seat price Cheapest week of the summer (July and August) to travel Best time to book Best time to book saving (average price minus best time to book price) Cheapest day of the week to travel Cheapest day of week saving (most expensive - cheapest day) Cheapest destinations More information on the data sets and methodology is available on request. Skyscanner's Savings Generator is currently testing across 10 countries, not a core part of skyscanner.net, feedback welcomed. *Searches made on Skyscanner between 1 January 2023 and 30 April 2023 for return travel from the UAE during the school holidays (10 July - 27 August) **OnePoll research conducted May 2023 with 1000 UAE respondents ***Live Skyscanner prices, on 30 May and subject to change About Skyscanner Skyscanner is a global leader in travel helping travellers plan and book their trip with ease and confidence. Every month Skyscanner connects over 100m travellers in 52 countries and 30 languages to more than 1200 trusted travel partners so they can find the best flight, hotel or car hire options. Making use of the latest technology, Skyscanner simplifies the complexity of travel and provides honest and transparent solutions, searching more than 80 billion prices every day so travellers can be sure they've seen the best possible options, all in one place. Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has offices worldwide, in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America where traveller-first innovations are developed, powered by data and insights. Skyscanner is committed to helping shape a more responsible future for travel in collaboration with our partners, so that every traveller can explore our world effortlessly for generations come. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089642/Skyscanner_1.jpg SOURCE Skyscanner PASAY CITY, Philippines, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SM City Bataan reflects the values of the local community with over 96% of the mall's administration staff being Bataenos, including two in leadership roles. With a workforce of over a thousand across mall tenants -- and still increasing, the mall proudly showcases the skills and expertise of the community. The 83rd SM mall and the first in the Bataan province, SM City Bataan is located at Lerma St., Brgy. Ibayo, City of Balanga. Congressman Albert S. Garcia, Bataan's 2nd District Representative, joined thousands of Bataenos on the opening of SM City Bataan, the first SM mall in the province and the 83rd nationwide, expressing his support and heralding the positive economic implications of the mall's establishment to the province as a whole. Cong. Garcia said, "When we had the ocular for the different stores during the blessing, we found out that almost everyone working there is from Bataan. They are residents of either Balanga, Pilar, Orani, Orion, or Hermosa. I'm happy to know that these jobs are filled by Bataenos. That is really what we were aiming for to begin with - to present more job opportunities that will help make the lives of every Bataeno better." Roberto Santos, the owner of Chedeng's Snack Bar, expressed his joy at the presence of many local brands that are now in SM City Bataan. "It's a big thing that homegrown local brands are now in SM," he said. "In addition to helping fellow Bataenos, many will be motivated as well to go out and do business with SM to promote the local food industries of the province." Garcia also lauded SM City Bataan's effort to extend support to the province's local development by featuring homegrown businesses (including family-owned brands and locally managed franchises) in different prominent spaces within the mall which makes it a hub that truly connects communities across the province. Positioned as a major destination in Bataan Located in Downtown Balanga, Bataan's capital city, the newest mall from SM stands as a reliable community partner with its residents not only through its contribution to the local economy but by serving as a center of accessibility with the incorporation of the Bataan Common Terminal in the mall compound. "The common terminal serves all public utility vehicles in and out of the city," said Jhoanalyn Gatdula, assistant mall manager of SM City Bataan. "Not only will this help the general workforce of the mall, but it will also bring comfort to all our commuting customers." Accessibility does not end with the mall's physical structure alone. The 24th mall in North Luzon developed by SM Prime Holdings, Inc., the property arm of SM Investments Corporation, SM City Bataan is strategically located in the capital. Through the terminal hubs surrounding SM City Bataan, the mall provides a venue for visitors to conveniently explore what the province has to offer -- whether it's the stone-throw Spanish-inspired Plaza Mayor in the capital, or the hidden gem that is Dunsulan Falls behind Mt. Samat, tourists and Bataenos alike can explore to their heart's content. A mini-showcase of Bataan inside the mall As visitors step into SM City Bataan, they are greeted by a mural with clay pots or 'banga' that capture an aspect of the cultural identity of its residents celebrating the namesake of its capital Balanga. Entrance two on the other end renews the province's commitment to preserving its environment as gel lights-formed birds representing the Ibong Dayo festival were integrated into another mural as a nod to the efforts of the city's Wetland and Nature Park, an outdoor sanctuary in the protection of migratory birds. Leveling up the mall experience True to the notion that every SM City is unique, SM City Bataan takes pride in its lively and modern take on how a shopping mall should make one feel. Beyond the abundance of shopping and dining options, there are also installations such as The Art In Motion that elevate the mall experience. Once there, viewers are taken on a captivating journey through various natural backdrops, creating an immersive and dynamic atmosphere within the mall. It goes naturally with the wood-like accents and earthy tones throughout SM City Bataan. Overall, SM City Bataan attempts to go beyond the 'box-type' feel usually seen in other malls. From the mall design to the tenants it houses, it aims to give back to the warmth it received from the community and celebrate the identity of the province and the people it serves. About SM Investments Corporation SM Investments Corporation is a leading Philippine company that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy. SM's retail operations are the country's largest and most diversified with its food, non-food, and specialty retail stores. SM's property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM's interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country's largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the 6th largest bank. For information, please visit www.sminvestments.com SOURCE SM Investments Corporation DENVER, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SM Energy Company (the "Company") announced today that, consistent with the succession plans previously disclosed in the Company's proxy statement, the Board of Directors of the Company has appointed Julio Quintana as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mr. Quintana has been a director of the Company since 2006. Mr. Quintana replaces William Sullivan as Chairman, who has served as a Director since 2004 and Chairman since 2009. Mr. Sullivan will continue as a Director of the Company. As a result of this change, the Company updates participation on certain Board Committees as follows: Mr. Quintana will resign from the Board Committees on which he currently serves; Mr. Sullivan will join the Environmental, Social and Governance Committee and the Compensation Committee; and Carla Bailo will assume the role of Chairperson of the Environmental, Social and Governance Committee. ABOUT THE COMPANY SM Energy Company is an independent energy company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of crude oil, natural gas, and NGLs in the state of Texas. SM Energy routinely posts important information about the Company on its website. For more information about SM Energy, please visit its website at www.sm-energy.com . SM ENERGY INVESTOR CONTACTS Jennifer Martin Samuels, [email protected], 303-864-2507 SOURCE SM Energy Company CHICAGO, May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- It's time to celebrate PRIDE across Illinois. Join House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch and House Democrats on June 1st at the Godfrey Hotel for a fundraiser to kick off PRIDE month and celebrate freedom, equality, and inclusion in Illinois. Join House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch at the PRIDE celebration for all Thursday, June 1 from 5:30-8:30 pm on the Godfrey Hotel Rooftop, 127 W Huron St. Chicago, IL 60654. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased online at DemsforILHouse.com or visit https://secure.actblue.com/donate/equalitypride365. Attendees can also RSVP by emailing [email protected] This event is closed to the press. The event will feature performers from Chicago's legendary Baton Show Lounge. It's hosted by some of Illinois' greatest advocates for LGBTQ rights including: Associate Regional Communications Director at Sierra Club, Precious Brady-Davis; 14th District State Representative Kelly Cassidy; former House Majority Leader Greg Harris; Democratic Party of Dupage County Chair Ken Mejia-Beal; Alderman Lamont Robinson of Chicago's 4th District; and Director of Public Policy at Equality Illinois, Mike Ziri. "It's not just a month," said House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch. "In Illinois, we celebrate equality and pride 365. Democrats have worked hard to ensure that Illinois is a safe haven for members of the LGBTQIA+ community with a focus on human rights, equity and inclusion. We will continue that fight so that those within the community can always call Illinois home." Former Majority Leader and LGBTQIA+ advocate, Greg Harris agrees. "Illinois has become a stronghold for LGBTQ rights, abortion care, reproductive healthcare, and gender-affirming care," said Harris. "We support diverse families, we teach accurate history in our schools, and we have elected leaders who are not just proud to "say gay", but use the power of their offices to enact these things into law. Speaker of the House Chris Welch is one of these leaders who is proud to stand with our community and help us enact the laws that prohibit discrimination, expand healthcare and guarantee LGBTQ families are not only protected in Illinois but can thrive here." Join us for the PRIDE celebration for all Thursday, June 1 from 5:30-8:30 pm on the Godfrey Hotel Rooftop, 127 W Huron St. Chicago, IL 60654. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased online at DemsforILHouse.com or visit https://secure.actblue.com/donate/equalitypride365 . Attendees can also RSVP by emailing [email protected] . This event is closed to the press. About Democrats for the Illinois House: Democrats for the Illinois House is the official political arm of the Illinois House Democratic Caucus. We support Democrats for the Illinois House in fighting for equality, justice, and opportunity for all. Under the leadership of House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch, Democrats for Illinois House (DIH) is dedicated to promoting the excellent work of the caucus, protecting incumbents, winning competitive races, and serving Illinoisans with integrity. The Illinois House Democratic Caucus is one of the most diverse in the nation representing African American (22), Latinx (11), Asian American (8), Women (42) and LGBTQ+ (2) members. DIH is committed to creating an environment across the state that is inclusive and welcoming to all people. SOURCE Democrats for the Illinois House The $73 million investment will create manufacturing jobs and help connect American communities. ATLANTA, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Superior Essex Communications, a leading manufacturer and supplier of communications cable, announced it is continuing to invest in manufacturing capacity and equipment at its Brownwood, Texas, plant to help meet global demand for OSP fiber optic cables, drop fiber and hybrid cables. As the fiber and hybrid markets continue to experience strong growth, the overall $73 million plant expansion investments will create 170 new U.S. manufacturing jobs and support broadband buildouts nationwide to bring high-speed internet and 5G service to all Americans. The expanded facility's increased capacity and other improvements will continue Superior Essex Communications' market leadership in fiber, drop and hybrid cables. The investment will improve manufacturing equipment and build an additional 90,000 square feet adjacent to the current Brownwood plant, expanding the facility to more than 500,000 total square feet of production. It will support new jobs as well as convert some existing jobs from legacy OSP copper cable manufacturing to focus on optical fiber cables. The expansion also will incorporate green building practices such as Power over Ethernet (PoE) lighting and the use of repurposed equipment and explore the use of solar and battery power sources for the plant. "The Brownwood plant improvements are not only an investment in our company, but also an investment in U.S. manufacturing and in communities across America," said Superior Essex Communications President Brad Johnson. "This expansion will create manufacturing jobs right here in America, which will bring more employment opportunities to the Brownwood region and boost production of American-made broadband products. In doing so, we're demonstrating our commitment to providing 'Build America, Buy America' products that help deliver high-speed broadband services to communities across the nation." Superior Essex Communications is focused on creating the future of smart and sustainable communications by developing technology that connects and respects the world. Government initiatives supported by the company to increase U.S. high-speed internet access for all Americans include the White House's Internet for All program and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration's (NTIA's) Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. About Superior Essex Communications Superior Essex Communications is a leading manufacturer and supplier of communications cable in North America. Under our overarching vision of MissionNext (MissionNext - Superior Essex Communications) we are shaping our future to support our employees and customers for many years to come with a view of Integrated Solutions, Sustainable Innovation, and Expansive Technologies. It is on the forefront of innovation through Power over Ethernet, Intelligent Buildings and Cities, and 5G Fiber infrastructure including Hybrid and Composite solutions, as well as technological advancements being made at its Product Development Center. Superior Essex Communications is also setting the pace on sustainability by being the first company with a Zero Waste to Landfill Certification at its Hoisington, Kansas, plant; the first wire and cable producer to contribute points to LEED certification; and the first to offer verified sustainable cables in over 50 products. Superior Essex Communications is Everywhere You Live and Work. Additional information is available at www.superioressexcommunications.com. SOURCE Superior Essex Communications Acquisition strengthens SWCA's position as a strategic advisor and expands its presence globally PHOENIX, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SWCA Environmental Consultants, a leading environmental consulting firm in the U.S., has acquired ALO Advisors LLC, an international management consulting firm focused on sustainability advisory services for clients across a wide range of industries. ALO Advisors helps clients design and deploy sustainability strategies, initiatives, and investments that simultaneously create business value and positive environmental and social impacts. ALO Advisors' team of 20 employees in the United States, Mexico, Netherlands, Portugal, and Sweden, and a network of affiliates in more than 50 countries, bring proven expertise in sustainability and management consulting worldwide. "This is truly a watershed moment for SWCA. By combining the strengths of SWCA and ALO Advisors, we have an incredible opportunity to drive greater positive environmental and social impact around the world," said Joseph J. Fluder, III, CEO and president of SWCA. "Together, we will provide end-to-end, full lifecycle support to our clients from strategy to science to implementation." ALO Advisors works with business leaders who are tackling today's greatest sustainability challenges. The organization serves some of the world's largest food, beverage, and consumer product companies, along with a wide variety of businesses in private equity, insurance, technology, medical device, and other industries. "In SWCA, we found an organization that shares our vision for helping clients make real, positive impact. By coming together, we will do this on a larger scale than we could have imagined," said John R. Platko, II, managing partner at ALO Advisors. About SWCA Founded in 1981, SWCA is a 100% employee-owned environmental consulting firm. SWCA provides a full spectrum of environmental services focused on planning, natural and cultural resources management, permitting, regulatory compliance, water resources, ecological restoration, and disaster and resilience. We combine scientific expertise with in-depth knowledge of permitting and compliance protocols to achieve technically sound, cost-effective solutions for environmental projects throughout the United States. About ALO Advisors ALO Advisors is a management consulting firm, founded in 2018, working globally with offices in Europe, the United States, and Mexico. We think about sustainability leadership differently, believing that when the economics work, the environmental and social benefits will last. This fundamental concept is central to our work and is the essence behind ALO's philosophy of Sustain Differently. Media Contact Sheri Waldbauer SWCA Environmental Consultants Ph: +1.503.224.0333 [email protected] Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089665/SWCA_Environmental_Consultants_Blue_Logo.jpg SOURCE SWCA Environmental Consultants GREENSBORO, N.C., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tanger Outlets (NYSE: SKT), a leading operator of upscale open-air outlet centers, announced today that it will participate in Nareit's REITweek 2023 Investor Conference from June 6 through June 7, 2023. The Company will also host a tour of Tanger Deer Park on June 5 in connection with the Evercore ISI REITs One-Day Retail Tour of Long Island, NY. Stephen Yalof, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Michael Bilerman, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Investment Officer, will participate in an analyst-led Q&A session at the Nareit conference on Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at 1:15 p.m. Eastern Time. A link to the live audio-only webcast will be available online at investors.tanger.com/news-events or at Tanger 2023 REITweek Presentation. An online replay will be available at the same locations after the conclusion of the presentation until Friday, June 16, 2023. The company's current management presentation may be accessed through investors.tanger.com/news-events/presentations. About Tanger Outlets Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. (NYSE: SKT), a leading operator of upscale open-air outlet centers, fully or partially owns and/or manages a portfolio of 37 centers, including one center under development. Tanger's operating centers, which comprise approximately 14 million square feet, are located in 20 states and in Canada and are leased to over 2,700 stores operated by more than 600 different brand name companies. Tanger has more than 42 years of experience in the outlet industry and has been a publicly traded REIT since 1993. For more information on Tanger, call 1-800-4TANGER or visit the Company's website at www.tanger.com. Investor Contact Information Doug McDonald SVP, Finance and Capital Markets T: (336) 856-6066 [email protected] SOURCE Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. The first warehouse in Lackawanna leased up before it formally opened. The second one is seeing strong demand, and it's still under construction. So Uniland Development Co. is going for a warehouse triple play on the former Bethlehem Steel site. Sign up for the Buffalo Next free newsletter The News' Buffalo Next team covers the changing Buffalo Niagara economy. Get the news in your inbox 5 days a week. The Amherst developer is proposing to construct a third warehouse or light-manufacturing facility in the Renaissance Commerce Park, on another 12-acre parcel that it would purchase from the county's Industrial Land Development Corp. It's offering to pay $552,500 for the landlocked site, just west of its second facility and Route 5. The planned facility would be at least 150,000 square feet in size, comparable to the two next to it. Upon completion, that would mean Uniland will have constructed a total of more than 500,000 square feet of "spec" industrial space in the 150-acre business park on the former Bethlehem Steel campus. "The new facility will help to meet demand for spec manufacturing and warehouse space in the region," according to a memo from the staff of the Erie County Industrial Development Agency to the board of directors of the ILDC, which is a subsidiary of ECIDA. However, unlike the first two, Uniland is studying different options for the proposed new building, said CEO Michael Montante. While the overall size will be similar, he said, the developer is considering whether to break it up into smaller sections or suites, "for companies that don't need 50,000 or 60,000 square feet, but maybe 10,000." Western New York has been plagued by a severe shortage of available industrial space that could be sold or leased to businesses looking to expand or relocate to the region. According to an annual report by brokerage firm CBRE-Upstate New York, just 1.3% of the industrial space in the region was vacant at the end of last year. That's 925,233 square feet of unleased space throughout the region which means the Uniland expansion is significant. It also demonstrates the success of the county's initiative to create Renaissance Commerce Park at the long vacant former steelmaking site between Route 5 and Lake Erie. TMP Technologies and Sucro Sourcing have built or renovated facilities at the Bethlehem Steel site, and the county is working to put in roads, utilities and other infrastructure to support further growth. "Its going to be amazing. People are shocked when they havent been there in some time," said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, who has led the county's charge in developing Renaissance. But adding the speculative warehouse and light-industrial space is critical for the region to meet the growing demand from businesses, as well as to fill up the park. "As you go into these things, you never know how the marketplace is going to react to a property coming online, and so far weve been pleasantly pleased with the overall interest that were getting," said ECIDA and ILDC CEO John Cappellino. "It shows that if we continue to invest in getting the sites ready for development, that theres interest in the marketplace." Uniland first bought a 9.5-acre parcel at 8 Dona St., where it constructed the a 150,000-square-foot warehouse for $17 million. It soon landed Total Quality Assurance International as the anchor tenant, with 108,000 square feet, and then signed Max Advanced Brakes of Markham, Ont., in March for the remaining 42,000 square feet, just as it formally opened the facility. In the interim, it bought another 10.75 acres next door, at what is now 2 Steelworkers Way, where it is building a facility of 170,000 to 200,000 square feet, at a cost of $20 million. And rival Ciminelli Real Estate Corp. plans to buy an 11.5-acre site on the south side of Dona, where it would construct a warehouse or light industrial building of as much as 250,000 square feet. "It is certainly validation for the overall effort to continue to develop the property," Cappellino said. "We still have a lot of acreage available. Were not building the buildings. We need other investors to come to the table." Uniland is now 80% complete with the foundation work at 2 Steelworkers, and expects to finish up by the end of the year for the first tenant to take occupancy, Montante said. He said the developer is "running into a few old foundations that we are dealing with, but that was to be expected," citing the prior Bethlehem Steel buildings. "We know were going to run into things, but it slows things down," he said. "Its challenging for sure, but we get through it." In the meantime, the new prefabricated building has already been ordered and is expected to be on site within a few months he added. He projected three to four tenants for that facility - two are already in the works. "Were well on our way with some leasing there," Montante said. "I cant predict the future, but it would be great if we have a lot of it leased up soon after the building is complete." That's why they're starting early on the third one. "We look at things years in advance. We know that these things dont happen overnight," Montante said. "Given the market conditions, we feel that were going to be running out of space for 2 Steelworkers Way and we want to be able to be in a position to offer similar space when that time comes." The developer submitted a non-binding letter of intent to ILDC on Feb. 23, offering to buy the property next to the Steelworkers Way facility. The agency reviewed the proposal, signed the letter and negotiated terms of the purchase agreement that is now pending before the ILDC board on Wednesday. Under terms of that agreement, Uniland has agreed to pay $50,000 per acre for what is known alternatively as "Parcel II-12" or "Development Site #4A." That's three times the fair market value of $18,498.40 per acre as determined by an independent appraisal. The total purchase price would be $601,000, but about 0.97 acres of land can't be reused because of railroad lines, so they were subtracted from the total for pricing, according to the agreement. The final price will depend on a land survey, utility easements and road corridors, according to the agreement. Under terms of the proposed deal, Uniland will have 90 days for due diligence, and must close the purchase within a month after that. Construction must begin within 18 months of the closing, and must finish within 18 months after that. Otherwise, the ILDC could repurchase the property for 85% of the purchase price, or Uniland must pay $10,000 for an extension. Montante said he anticipates starting construction within six to 12 moths of closing, after completing its planning, design, permitting and regulatory review. Uniland may also seek sales, mortgage-recording and property tax breaks for the project, the agreement notes. NEW YORK, May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The textile manufacturing market is set to grow by USD 351.51 billion from 2023 to 2027 progressing at a CAGR of 4.8% 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. The premiumization through well-positioned brands is notably driving the market growth, although factors such as fluctuating crude oil prices may impede the market growth. Here is an Exclusive report talking about Market scenarios with a historical period (2017-2021) and the forecast period (2023-2027). Download Sample Report in minutes! Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Textile Manufacturing Market 2023-2027 The report on the textile manufacturing market provides a holistic update, market size and forecast, trends, growth drivers, and challenges, as well as vendor analysis. Textile Manufacturing Market 2023-2027 - Market Dynamics Market Drivers Premiumization through well-positioned brands Rising demand for textile Increasing demand for natural fibers Market Trends Increasing demand for textiles in automotive industry Innovations in textile industry Personalization and customization of home textile products Market Challenges Fluctuating crude oil prices Long product replacement cycle Volatility of raw material prices Textile Manufacturing Market 2023-2027: Market Segmentation The textile manufacturing market is segmented by type (natural fibers, polyesters, nylons, and others), application (fashion, technical, household, and others), and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa). The market share growth of the natural fibers segment will be significant during the forecast period. Natural fibres are derived from plant and animal sources. The natural fibers segment was valued at USD 449.39 billion in 2017 and continued to grow until 2021. By geography, APAC is estimated to contribute 76% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Insights on the market contribution of various segments, including country- and region-wise data, historic data (2017 to 2021), and forecast market size (2023 to 2027). View Sample Report The textile manufacturing market covers the following areas: Textile Manufacturing Market Sizing Textile Manufacturing Market Forecast Textile Manufacturing Market Analysis Companies Mentioned B.C. Corp. BSL Ltd. China Petrochemical Corp. China Textiles ( Shenzhen ) Co. Ltd. ) Co. Ltd. Donear Industries Ltd. Far Eastern New Century Corp. Grasim Industries Ltd. Hyosung TNC Industria de Diseno Textil SA JCT Ltd. Koch Industries Inc. Li & Fung Ltd. Lu Thai Textile Co. Ltd. Modern Threads ( India ) Ltd. ) Ltd. Nisshinbo Holdings Inc. Paramount Textile Mills (P) Ltd. Paulo de Oliveira PVH Corp. Successori Reda SpA Toray Industries Inc. bc-corp.co.kr- The company offers various wallcovering under various brands such as Wallstar Digital, Wallwise, Wall liners, and Wallstar. bslltd.com- The company offers wallcovering under various brands such as Sabyasachi collection, Signature, and Good Earth for Nilaya. sinopecgroup.com- The company offers various wallcovering such as Red wallcovering, Ivory Cobalt wallcovering, Blue grey wallcovering, Coral grey wallcovering, Grey Ivory wallcovering, and pink wallcovering. Related Reports: Digital Textile Printing Market- The digital textile printing market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 13.5% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 2,547.66 million. Antimicrobial Medical Textiles Market- The antimicrobial medical textiles market is estimated to grow/decline at a CAGR of 7.11% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 1,264.54 million. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Textile Manufacturing Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 4.8% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 351.51 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023(%) 4.6 Regional analysis APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution APAC at 76% Key countries US, China, India, Pakistan, and Brazil Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled B.C. Corp., BSL Ltd., China Petrochemical Corp., China Textiles (Shenzhen) Co. Ltd., Donear Industries Ltd., Far Eastern New Century Corp., Grasim Industries Ltd., Hyosung TNC, Industria de Diseno Textil SA, JCT Ltd., Koch Industries Inc., Li & Fung Ltd., Lu Thai Textile Co. Ltd., Modern Threads (India) Ltd., Nisshinbo Holdings Inc., Paramount Textile Mills (P) Ltd., Paulo de Oliveira, PVH Corp., Successori Reda SpA, and Toray Industries 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 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. 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 Market Segmentation by Application 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 ($ billion) Exhibit 15: Data Table on Global - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) 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 textile manufacturing market 2017 - 2021 Exhibit 18: Historic Market Size Data Table on Global textile manufacturing market 2017 - 2021 ($ billion) 4.2 Type Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021 Exhibit 19: Historic Market Size Type Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ billion) 4.3 Application Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021 Exhibit 20: Historic Market Size Application Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ billion) 4.4 Geography Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021 Exhibit 21: Historic Market Size Geography Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ billion) 4.5 Country Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021 Exhibit 22: Historic Market Size Country Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ billion) 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 Natural fibers - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 34: Chart on Natural fibers - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 35: Data Table on Natural fibers - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 36: Chart on Natural fibers - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 37: Data Table on Natural fibers - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 6.4 Polyesters - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 38: Chart on Polyesters - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 39: Data Table on Polyesters - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 40: Chart on Polyesters - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 41: Data Table on Polyesters - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 6.5 Nylons - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 42: Chart on Nylons - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 43: Data Table on Nylons - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 44: Chart on Nylons - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 45: Data Table on Nylons - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 6.6 Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 46: Chart on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 47: Data Table on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 48: Chart on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 49: Data Table on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 6.7 Market opportunity by Type Exhibit 50: Market opportunity by Type ($ billion) 7 Market Segmentation by Application 7.1 Market segments Exhibit 51: Chart on Application - Market share 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 52: Data Table on Application - Market share 2022-2027 (%) 7.2 Comparison by Application Exhibit 53: Chart on Comparison by Application Exhibit 54: Data Table on Comparison by Application 7.3 Fashion - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 55: Chart on Fashion - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 56: Data Table on Fashion - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 57: Chart on Fashion - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 58: Data Table on Fashion - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 7.4 Technical - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 59: Chart on Technical - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 60: Data Table on Technical - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 61: Chart on Technical - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 62: Data Table on Technical - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 7.5 Household - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 63: Chart on Household - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 64: Data Table on Household - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 65: Chart on Household - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 66: Data Table on Household - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 7.6 Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 67: Chart on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 68: Data Table on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 69: Chart on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 70: Data Table on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 7.7 Market opportunity by Application Exhibit 71: Market opportunity by Application ($ billion) 8 Customer Landscape 8.1 Customer landscape overview Exhibit 72: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria 9 Geographic Landscape 9.1 Geographic segmentation Exhibit 73: Chart on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 74: Data Table on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%) 9.2 Geographic comparison Exhibit 75: Chart on Geographic comparison Exhibit 76: Data Table on Geographic comparison 9.3 APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 77: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 78: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 79: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 80: 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 81: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 82: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 83: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 84: 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 85: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 86: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 87: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 88: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 89: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 90: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 91: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 92: Data Table on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.7 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 93: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 94: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) 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 (%) 9.8 China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 97: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 98: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 99: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 100: Data Table on China - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.9 India - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 101: Chart on India - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 102: Data Table on India - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 103: Chart on India - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 104: Data Table on India - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.10 US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 105: Chart on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 106: Data Table on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 107: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 108: Data Table on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.11 Brazil - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 109: Chart on Brazil - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 110: Data Table on Brazil - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 111: Chart on Brazil - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 112: Data Table on Brazil - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.12 Pakistan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 113: Chart on Pakistan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 114: Data Table on Pakistan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 115: Chart on Pakistan - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 116: Data Table on Pakistan - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.13 Market opportunity by geography Exhibit 117: Market opportunity by geography ($ billion) 10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10.1 Market drivers 10.2 Market challenges 10.3 Impact of drivers and challenges Exhibit 118: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2022 and 2027 10.4 Market trends 11 Vendor Landscape 11.1 Overview 11.2 Vendor landscape Exhibit 119: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation 11.3 Landscape disruption Exhibit 120: Overview on factors of disruption 11.4 Industry risks Exhibit 121: Impact of key risks on business 12 Vendor Analysis 12.1 Vendors covered Exhibit 122: Vendors covered 12.2 Market positioning of vendors Exhibit 123: Matrix on vendor position and classification 12.3 B .C. Corp. .C. Corp. Exhibit 124: B.C. Corp. - Overview Exhibit 125: B.C. Corp. - Product / Service Exhibit 126: B.C. Corp. - Key offerings 12.4 BSL Ltd. Exhibit 127: BSL Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 128: BSL Ltd. - Business segments Exhibit 129: BSL Ltd. - Key offerings Exhibit 130: BSL Ltd. - Segment focus 12.5 China Petrochemical Corp. Exhibit 131: China Petrochemical Corp. - Overview Exhibit 132: China Petrochemical Corp. - Business segments Exhibit 133: China Petrochemical Corp. - Key offerings Exhibit 134: China Petrochemical Corp. - Segment focus 12.6 China Textiles ( Shenzhen ) Co. Ltd. ) Co. Ltd. Exhibit 135: China Textiles ( Shenzhen ) Co. Ltd. - Overview ) Co. Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 136: China Textiles ( Shenzhen ) Co. Ltd. - Product / Service ) Co. Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 137: China Textiles ( Shenzhen ) Co. Ltd. - Key offerings 12.7 Donear Industries Ltd. Exhibit 138: Donear Industries Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 139: Donear Industries Ltd. - Business segments Exhibit 140: Donear Industries Ltd. - Key offerings Exhibit 141: Donear Industries Ltd. - Segment focus 12.8 Industria de Diseno Textil SA Exhibit 142: Industria de Diseno Textil SA - Overview Exhibit 143: Industria de Diseno Textil SA - Business segments Exhibit 144: Industria de Diseno Textil SA - Key offerings Exhibit 145: Industria de Diseno Textil SA - Segment focus 12.9 JCT Ltd. Exhibit 146: JCT Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 147: JCT Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 148: JCT Ltd. - Key offerings 12.10 Koch Industries Inc. Exhibit 149: Koch Industries Inc. - Overview Exhibit 150: Koch Industries Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 151: Koch Industries Inc. - Key news Exhibit 152: Koch Industries Inc. - Key offerings 12.11 Li Fung Ltd. Exhibit 153: Li Fung Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 154: Li Fung Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 155: Li Fung Ltd. - Key offerings 12.12 Lu Thai Textile Co. Ltd. Exhibit 156: Lu Thai Textile Co. Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 157: Lu Thai Textile Co. Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 158: Lu Thai Textile Co. Ltd. - Key offerings 12.13 Modern Threads ( India ) Ltd. ) Ltd. Exhibit 159: Modern Threads ( India ) Ltd. - Overview ) Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 160: Modern Threads ( India ) Ltd. - Business segments ) Ltd. - Business segments Exhibit 161: Modern Threads ( India ) Ltd. - Key offerings ) Ltd. - Key offerings Exhibit 162: Modern Threads ( India ) Ltd. - Segment focus 12.14 Paramount Textile Mills (P) Ltd. Exhibit 163: Paramount Textile Mills (P) Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 164: Paramount Textile Mills (P) Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 165: Paramount Textile Mills (P) Ltd. - Key offerings 12.15 Paulo de Oliveira Exhibit 166: Paulo de Oliveira - Overview - Overview Exhibit 167: Paulo de Oliveira - Product / Service - Product / Service Exhibit 168: Paulo de Oliveira - Key offerings 12.16 Successori Reda SpA Exhibit 169: Successori Reda SpA - Overview Exhibit 170: Successori Reda SpA - Product / Service Exhibit 171: Successori Reda SpA - Key offerings 12.17 Toray Industries Inc. Exhibit 172: Toray Industries Inc. - Overview Exhibit 173: Toray Industries Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 174: Toray Industries Inc. - Key news Exhibit 175: Toray Industries Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 176: Toray Industries Inc. - Segment focus 13 Appendix 13.1 Scope of the report 13.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist Exhibit 177: Inclusions checklist Exhibit 178: Exclusions checklist 13.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ Exhibit 179: Currency conversion rates for US$ 13.4 Research methodology Exhibit 180: Research methodology Exhibit 181: Validation techniques employed for market sizing Exhibit 182: Information sources 13.5 List of abbreviations Exhibit 183: List of abbreviations About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contact Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio FRANKLIN, Tenn., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The America Project, https://americaproject.com is proudly sponsoring CAUSE Fest 2023, Uniting Freedom-Minded Individuals in Celebration of Art, and Humanity. CAUSE Fest 2023 is a one-of-a-kind event dedicated to embracing art that champions humanity, free will, personal sovereignty, and personal agency, and is receiving a generous sponsorship from The America Project (TAP) to help make this event happen. Join with The America Project to support Cause Fest 2023. Together we can make a difference. "At The America Project, we recognize the transformative power of art and its ability to shape culture," stated a representative from TAP. "Our sponsorship of CAUSE Fest 2023 is a testament to The America Project's commitment to promote organizations that align with TAP's mission to defend Rights and Freedoms of America First Patriots. We applaud CAUSE Fest 2023's objectives to promote a community of freedom-minded individuals who are gathering to celebrate the beauty of humanity through art that emphasizes personal sovereignty and free will. We are proud to support this extraordinary event." CAUSE Fest 2023, set to take place on June 3rd and 4th at The Factory at Franklin - Liberty Hall, 230 Franklin Road, Franklin, Tennessee. The festival lineup features a diverse range of speakers including Jason Ickes and Russell Newman with The America Project along with other performances, including liberty-centered music from talented artists, hilarious comedy sets that are sure to make you laugh, enlightening lectures on topics such as personal agency and emerging technologies, and captivating live podcasts. By sponsoring this event, The America Project is playing a vital role in facilitating the unification of individuals who cherish personal agency and champion the principles of liberty. As an acknowledgment of the evolving world and the importance of inclusivity, CAUSE Fest 2023 will also provide a virtual event livestream. This initiative ensures that individuals from around the globe, who resonate with the festival's mission, can participate in the celebration of art, humanity, and personal sovereignty. Tickets for CAUSE Fest 2023 are available at https://AmericaProject.com/events and offers guests an opportunity to join a passionate community of freedom-minded individuals who are eager to honor the creativity and beauty of humanity. Whether attending in person or virtually, the festival promises an extraordinary weekend filled with inspiration and camaraderie. To learn more about CAUSE Fest 2023 and secure your tickets, visit The America Project's official website at https://AmericaProject.com/events. Join us in Nashville and be a part of this remarkable event as we unite to champion art, humanity, and the values of freedom! For more information, contact Ms. Amanda Freytes at [email protected] SOURCE The America Project Caris expands its extensive network of leading cancer institutions committed to improving patient outcomes through innovations in precision medicine IRVING, Texas, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Caris Life Sciences(Caris), the leading molecular science and technology company actively developing and delivering innovative solutions to revolutionize healthcare, announced today that Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK), one of the world's premier cancer centers, has joined the Caris Precision Oncology Alliance (POA) and will collaborate with Caris on various research projects. The POA is a growing network of leading cancer centers across the globe that collaborate to advance precision oncology and biomarker-driven research, with its members working together to establish and optimize standards of care for molecular testing through innovative research to improve clinical outcomes for cancer patients. POA members are uniquely positioned to leverage Caris' highly sophisticated AI bioinformatics and machine learning capabilities across the company's massive clinico-genomic database to enable innovative research to improve clinical outcomes for cancer patients. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK), one of the world's premier cancer centers, has joined the Caris POA Tweet this "As one of the world's most respected comprehensive centers devoted exclusively to cancer, we are thrilled to welcome MSK to the Caris Precision Oncology Alliance which is uniquely positioned to leverage precision oncology research to improve the outcomes of all patients suffering from cancer," said Chadi Nabhan, M.D., MBA, FACP, SVP and Chairman of the Caris POA. As a POA member, MSK will collaborate with Caris on various research projects, including a pilot project to validate a signature that potentially predicts the development of brain metastases in patients with solid malignancies. "We're excited to collaborate with Caris as a member of the POA," said Luke Pike, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Attending in Radiation Oncology at MSK. "More than 200,000 Americans are diagnosed with brain metastasis every year and yet we know very little about why this happens or the biology of cancers once they have spread to the brain. Our hope is that our joint project will fundamentally improve our understanding of the mechanistic underpinnings of brain metastasis and help us predict which patients are at highest risk for this terrible affliction." The Caris Precision Oncology Alliance includes 85 cancer centers and academic institutions. These institutions have early access to the extensive database and artificial intelligence platform within Caris to establish evidence-based standards for cancer profiling and molecular testing in oncology. By leveraging the comprehensive genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic profiling available through Caris molecular profiling, Caris seeks to provide this network with the ability to prioritize therapeutic options and determine which clinical trial opportunities may benefit their patients. POA members are also able to integrate with a growing portfolio of biomarker-directed trials sponsored by biopharma. Additionally, POA member institutions have access to the most comprehensive clinico-genomic database in the industry, which includes matched molecular and clinical outcomes data from more than 390,000 patients, covering over 1 million data points per patient. About Caris Life Sciences Caris Life Sciences (Caris) is the pioneer in precision medicine and leading molecular science and technology company actively developing and delivering innovative solutions to revolutionize healthcare and improve patient outcomes. Through comprehensive molecular profiling (Whole Exome and Whole Transcriptome Sequencing) and the application of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms, Caris has created the large-scale clinico-genomic database and cognitive computing needed to analyze and unravel the molecular complexity of disease. This convergence of data and machine learning provides an unmatched resource and the ideal path forward to conduct the basic, fundamental research to accelerate discovery for detection, diagnosis, monitoring, therapy selection and drug development to improve the human condition. With a primary focus on cancer, Caris' suite of market-leading molecular profiling offerings assesses DNA, RNA and proteins to reveal a molecular blueprint that helps patients, physicians and researchers better detect, diagnose and treat patients. The company's latest advancement, Caris Assure, is a blood-based, circulating nucleic acids sequencing (cNAS) assay that combines comprehensive molecular analysis (Whole Exome and Whole Transcriptome Sequencing from blood) and serial monitoring making it the most powerful liquid biopsy assay ever developed. Headquartered in Irving, Texas, Caris has offices in Phoenix, New York, Tokyo, Japan and Basel, Switzerland. Caris or its distributors provide services in the U.S., Europe, Asia and other international markets. To learn more, please visit CarisLifeSciences.com or follow us on LinkedIn. Caris Life Sciences Media Contact: Lisa Burgner [email protected] 214.294.5606 SOURCE Caris Life Sciences Global Coffee and Tea Leader Introduces the Matcha Cookies & Cream Iced Blended Drink, Iced Mango Matcha Latte, and the Mint Chocolate Ice Blended Drink LOS ANGELES, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- It's time to get energized this summer with the ultimate matcha experience. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf brand, the iconic Southern California favorite serving premium coffee and tea for the past 60 years, has launched its summer seasonal menu with a new line-up of beverages that complement its core matcha drinks. Featured are the Matcha Cookies & Cream Ice Blended drink, Iced Mango Matcha Latte, along with a Mint Chocolate Ice Blended drink. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Introduces new Matcha beverages for summer The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Introduces the Mint Chocolate Ice Blended Drink for summer Also, from today and until August 15, the iconic cafe has brought back the Be Happy Hour, where guests can receive $1 off any Ice Blended Drink from 3pm to close for a special afternoon treat. "We know how much our guests love our matcha drinks, so we're excited to have created a new array of delicious ways that they can enjoy our high quality matcha," said Daniella Voysey, Head of Marketing, Americas, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. "Along with the matcha drinks, we've also introduced the Mint Chocolate Ice Blended drink for summer, which is a classic twist on one of the most popular ice cream flavors in America and a true indulgence for your taste buds." The new summer menu beverages are available to guests now through August 15 and include: Iced Mango Matcha Latte A colorful drink featuring delicate layers of mango syrup and milk that perfectly complement our new, pure Matcha, creating a truly irresistible combination. The pure Matcha is sourced from the region of Shizuoka, Japan , which is renowned for producing the finest Japanese green tea. Can easily be customized with plant-based milk. A colorful drink featuring delicate layers of mango syrup and milk that perfectly complement our new, pure Matcha, creating a truly irresistible combination. The pure Matcha is sourced from the region of Shizuoka, , which is renowned for producing the finest Japanese green tea. Can easily be customized with plant-based milk. Matcha Cookies & Cream Ice Blended drink The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's premium Matcha, blended with the iconic creamy vanilla. Every sip of this deliciously smooth drink is complemented by the addition of decadent cookie pieces. The Coffee Bean & premium Matcha, blended with the iconic creamy vanilla. Every sip of this deliciously smooth drink is complemented by the addition of decadent cookie pieces. Mint Chocolate Ice Blended drink This wonderfully sweet and satisfying drink that is inspired by a summertime ice cream favorite, features The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf's mint and rich chocolate syrups, perfectly complemented by a generous topping of whipped cream, cookie crumbs, and dark-chocolate drizzle. Perfect as a treat any time of day and for all ages. For those who want a little kick, the drink is available with freshly brewed espresso extract. For 60 years, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has had an uncompromised level of quality and has consistently delivered premium quality coffee and teas to guests around the world. The company is also widely credited for driving innovation to the coffee and tea industry with the invention of the iconic The Original Ice Blended drink. For more information, please visit www.coffeebean.com. About The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Brand International Coffee & Tea Leaf, LLC, doing business as The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf brand is a leading global roaster and retailer of specialty coffees and teas. It is widely credited for driving high quality and innovation to the coffee and tea industry. The company sources the finest ingredients and flavors from around the world, and hand blends coffee and tea for the freshest flavors. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf brand started the frozen coffee drink craze with the invention of The Original Ice Blended drink and is also the first global coffee and tea retailer to offer cold brew tea. The company currently has 1,094 retail locations across the globe and can also be found in grocery aisles as well as specialty locations, including airports and hotels. For more information, visit www.coffeebean.com. Media Contacts Tracy Rubin JCUTLER media group [email protected] SOURCE The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf FinancialNewsMedia.com News Commentary PALM BEACH, Fla., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Solid-state batteries are the focus of R&D activities worldwide, as demand is rising & expanding and is projected to continue for the next decade at least. Compared to conventional Li-ion batteries with liquid electrolytes, solid-state batteries are more reliable, secure, and possess greater energy densities. They are used in various applications, including electric vehicles, energy harvesting, consumer electronics, medical devices, wireless communication, and others. Growing demand for solid-state batteries from end-use verticals and rising research and development efforts aimed at lowering battery costs are anticipated to accelerate solid-state battery market growth during the assessment period. Further, the prominent factors exploiting the solid-state battery demand are the rising use of electronic devices, the growing utilization of battery energy storage systems, and the surging electric vehicles industry. A recent report from Fact.MR projected that the global solid-state battery market is estimated to be valued at US$ 121.0 million in 2023 and to grow at a CAGR of 28.6% to reach a valuation of US$ 1,497.1 million by the end of 2033. Active Companies from around the markets with current developments this week include: Phenom Resources Corp. (OTCQX: PHNMF) (TSX-V: PHNM), Energy Fuels Inc. (NYSE: UUUU) (TSX: EFR), Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), The Chemours Company (NYSE: CC), Glencore plc (OTCPK: GLNCY). The report discussed their outlook for the coming decade, saying: "Short Term (20232026): Consumer preference for solid-state batteries over traditional ones is likely to supplement the market growth. Medium Term (20262029): Solid-state battery is witnessing high demand due to the growing automotive industry, especially electric vehicles. Long Term (20292033): Efforts led by market players are set to create ample growth opportunities for market growth. For instance, noble product development coupled with a pricing strategy is likely to drive the market in a long run. According to the Fact.MR analysis, the historic growth rate for the solid-state battery market was 22.3% and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 28.6% during the forecast period from 20232033." Phenom Resources Corp. (OTCQX: PHNMF) (TSX-V: PHNM) BREAKING NEWS: Phenom Signs MOU with Japanese Vanadium Solid-State Battery Company - Phenom Resources Corp. (OTCQX: PHNMF) (TSX-V: PHNM) (FSE: 1PY0) ("Phenom" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to gain a 5% equity interest in a private Japanese battery company, that is advancing its revolutionary fast charging low-cost vanadium solid-state battery (VSB) business world-wide. The non-binding MOU describes the principles and proposed terms and conditions of an Off-Take Agreement between MK Plus Co., Ltd. (MK Plus) and Phenom whereby Phenom will commit to providing 20% of its future Carlin Vanadium Project production concentrates to MK Plus at fair market value. In exchange for this commitment, MK Plus will, on signing a Definitive Off-Take Agreement, issue to Phenom 5% of MK Plus's issued and outstanding shares. Phenom's interest will be non-dilutive until MK Plus's market valuation exceeds US$500 million after which Phenom's interest in MK Plus may be diluted but will not fall below 3%. Currently, MK Plus's market valuation is CDN$83.85 million. According to MK Plus, their vanadium solid-state battery provides higher desired performance at a lower cost over vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFB) in the large capacity battery market. They claim: Rapid charging in minutes (C-rate of between 100 and 300 versus C-rate of 20 in VRFB), achieving massive charging speeds 100 times faster. Use one tenth of the amount of vanadium than VRFB use for an equivalent charge. Have +100,000 deep cycle life without heat dissipation (no fire risk) or degradation (long life). Have been tested at ambient operating temperatures between 100oC and -40oC without loss of performance. MK Plus's vision is to be the #1 provider of high-performance, stationary, low-cost utility-scale batteries that are made 100% in North America with vanadium from Phenom's Carlin Vanadium resource in Nevada. With 14 patents world-wide for its battery technology, they have progressed through a 12-year R&D period including thorough third-party testing. They are now providing scaled-up modules to European power companies for customer testing next month. MK Plus has established multiple subsidiaries including the USA, France and Austria with plans to expand further world-wide. Paul Cowley, President & CEO of Phenom states, "We are very pleased to have built a relationship with MK Plus over the last 2 years that has culminated in this MOU and bring this new technology to the USA to address battery supply chain gaps. The extraordinary features of their vanadium solid-state batteries can be highly disruptive to the utility-scale battery market which is forecasted to expand 30 times by the end of this decade. In my visit to MK Plus's facilities in Japan last week I witnessed firsthand the impressive rapid charging. To own 5% of this unique and progressive Japanese battery company with their aggressive growth potential just prior to their power customer testing is timely and significant for us. We see this MOU as a start to a strong and growing relationship with MK Plus." "The stationary battery market is projected to be double the size of the EV battery market by early 2030's and that is where vanadium redox flow batteries have their advantage over lithium batteries. As pointed out above, MK Plus's vanadium solid-state battery is superior again to the VRFB. Additionally, MK Plus believes that because of the rapid changing of their battery, there is potential to enter the EV space a few years down the line but are initially focused on the bigger market where they have a clear advantage ", continues Paul Cowley. "MP Plus sought out and prioritized Phenom's vanadium resource in Nevada as the ideal target and relationship in the USA for MK Plus's initial global growth plans by securing future vanadium feed in the USA." Read this and more news for Phenom Resources at: https://www.phenomresources.com/index.php/news/2023 In other industry developments and happenings in the market this week: Energy Fuels Inc. (NYSE American: UUUU) (TSX: EFR) recently reported its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2023. The Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and may be viewed on the Electronic Document Gathering and Retrieval System ("EDGAR") at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml, on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval ("SEDAR") at www.sedar.com, and on the Company's website at www.energyfuels.com. Financial Highlights Were: As of March 31, 2023, the Company had a robust balance sheet with $143.61 million of working capital (versus $116.97 million at December 31, 2022), including $43.83 million of cash and cash equivalents, $60.44 million of marketable securities, $38.00 million of inventory, and no debt. At current commodity prices, the Company's product inventory has a value of $52.53 million; During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company realized net income of $114.26 million, or $0.72 per share, primarily due to: (i) a net gain of $116.45 million on the sale of the Company's Alta Mesa in situ recovery ("ISR") project in Texas; (ii) a net gain of $10.76 million on the sale of 300,000 pounds of uranium ("U 3 O 8 ") to the U.S. Uranium program; (iii) a net gain of $0.32 million on the sale of 79,344 pounds of vanadium ("V 2 O 5 "); (iv) increased expenses associated with preparing four (4) of our uranium mines for production; (v) expenses associated with developing commercial rare earth element ("REE") separation capabilities; and (vi) a non-cash mark-to-market loss on investments accounted for at fair value of $2.96 million. Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) recently announced that it is on the team that has won a contract from NASA to develop and demonstrate a human landing system for the Artemis program under the agency's Human Landing System program. The goal of the program is to rapidly develop a sustainable human lunar lander and perform a crewed demonstration flight to the lunar surface for Artemis V. Led by Blue Origin, the National Team that will develop and build the lander also includes Draper, Boeing, Astrobotic and Honeybee Robotics. "Congratulations to Blue Origin on this achievement. Lockheed Martin is excited to be part of Blue Origin's National team and we are looking forward to building humanity's first Cislunar Transporter," said Kirk Shireman, vice president of Lunar Exploration Campaigns at Lockheed Martin Space. "We value Blue Origin's thoughtful approach to developing human-rated flight systems and are thrilled to be part of a diverse team that combines innovation, deep experience and a strong industrial base." The Chemours Company (NYSE: CC) recently announced a capacity investment in its low global warming potential (GWP) Opteon 1100 foam blowing agent and Opteon SF33 specialty fluid. The expansion will triple capacity of the ultra-low GWP, hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) solution, enabling customers and value chain partners to meet the escalating demand for sustainable and efficient HFO-1336mzzZ-based fluids. Chemours has entered into an agreement with Zhejiang Juhua Group, Ltd. to produce the additional volume of HFO-1336mzzZ. Chemours expects startup to begin in late 2025, followed by full-scale production in early 2026. "Our customers utilize Opteon 1100 and Opteon SF33 to deliver superior performance in a variety of critical applications. Chemours is excited to meet the growing business needs of our customers with low GWP products that support the health and sustainability of our planet," said Joseph Martinko, President of Thermal & Specialized Solutions at Chemours. "As consumers and regulators around the globe seek step-change reductions in CO 2 emissions, access to this technology will contribute to achieving both sustainability and performance targets across construction, electronics, appliance, critical cleaning, carrier fluid, and many other applications." Li-Cycle Holdings Corp. ("Li-Cycle" or the "Company"), an industry leader in lithium-ion battery resource recovery and the leading lithium-ion battery recycler in North America, and Glencore International AG, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Glencore plc (OTCPK: GLNCY) (LON: GLEN), a leading producer, recycler, and marketer of nickel and cobalt for the production of lithium-ion batteries, have recently signed a Letter of Intent to jointly study the feasibility of, and later, develop a Hub facility in Portovesme, Italy (the "Portovesme Hub"). The Portovesme Hub would produce critical battery materials, including nickel, cobalt and lithium from recycled battery content. The Portovesme Hub will leverage Li-Cycle's state-of-the-art hydrometallurgical technology and is expected to be the largest producer of sustainable battery-grade products in Europe. Located in Sardinia, Italy, the Portovesme metallurgical complex consists of a lead-zinc smelter and hydrometallurgical facility which first started operations in 1929. The Portovesme site has substantial existing infrastructure, including access to a port, utilities, processing equipment from the hydrometallurgical plant and an experienced workforce. DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates Financialnewsmedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM's market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM was compensated twenty five hundred dollars for coverage of Phenom Resources Corp. news by a non-affiliated third party. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE. This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. "Forward-looking statements" describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "may", "future", "plan" or "planned", "will" or "should", "expected," "anticipates", "draft", "eventually" or "projected". You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company's annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements. Contact Information: Media Contact email: [email protected] - +1(561)325-8757 SOURCE Financialnewsmedia.com FRIENDSWOOD, Texas, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Rene Amaya is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Pediatrics. Dr. Rene Amayay Dr. Amaya began his education journey at St. Mary's University in San Antonio where he earned a Bachelor of Science in biology and a Bachelor of Arts in English. He then attended the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas and received a Doctor of Medicine degree. He completed a pediatric residency at Phoenix Children's Hospital and a Fellowship in pediatric infectious disease at Baylor College of Medicine. One of six physicians in the country certified to treat infant and child wounds, Dr. Amaya consults with five area hospitals; NICU; and PICU units; seeing sick children with meningitis; pneumonia; and sepsis. He is an expert in neonatal wound care and works with issues such as surgical scarring; pressure ulcers; and other deformities so that these wounds do not inhibit function and also for esthetic appearance. Working in private practice, Dr. Amaya is certified in wound care (CWSP) by the American Board of Wound Management, and is board certified in pediatric infectious disease. He asserts that he is passionate about healing wounds and scars in infants and children and treats each child as if they were his own. Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in his field, he applies his skill and knowledge to cure every wound, big or small. Dr. Amaya explained that infectious disease is a medical specialty dealing with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of all infections. Pediatric infectious disease specialists diagnose, treat, and work to prevent infectious diseases in children. Often functioning like "medical detectives," Dr. Amaya notes that those in his field evaluate children with symptoms that are recurrent, atypical, or unexplained. Dr. Amaya is a Board Member of the International Society for Pediatric Wound Care and is well recognized for his research in complex pediatric wound care; for his numerous scientific conference abstracts; and scholarly articles in medical journals. Highly sought after for his medical acumen, Dr. Amaya is a member of Pediatrix Medical Group and is affiliated with multiple hospitals and medical centers, which includes The Woman's Hospital of Texas; HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest; Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital; St. Joseph Medical Center-Houston; and HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake. Dr. Amaya enjoys teaching and lecturing at wound care conferences and seminars throughout the United States and Europe. The doctor is associated with the Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and International Society of Pediatric Wound Care. Fluent in both English and Spanish, the doctor would like to thank his whole family for all their support and dedicates this honor to his mentor, Guido Ciprandi, MD. Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected] SOURCE The Inner Circle LONDON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The JV has recently completed the acquisition of its second office building in Barcelona, located at Carrer Lluis Muntadas 5, Cornella. The building has been acquired from Siemens in a partial sale and leaseback transaction. The 13,088 square meter, grade A, multi-tenanted office asset is strategically located, close to local, national, and international transport infrastructure as well as nearby amenities. At acquisition, the building has an occupancy ratio of 86% and is partially occupied by Siemens group companies as well as other blue-chip tenants such as Nexeo Solutions, ISS, TDK, and Atos. With this acquisition, the JV consolidates its presence in Barcelona, where it has owned the nearby building Esplugues 225, since December 2021. This allows synergies to emerge that will provide its tenants with better services and resources. The JV plans to optimise the asset from an ESG perspective and achieve BREEAM 'Excellent' certification, aiming to deliver a world-class space that is sustainability-oriented, ready to meet the present and future demands of existing and future occupiers alike, and at an attractive price point. During the acquisition, the buyer was represented by: Buigas, as legal advisor, and Dress & Sommer as technical advisor. The seller was represented by: Deloitte Legal, as legal advisor, and BNP Paribas as advisor on the sale. Europi and Kefren formed a JV in 2021 intending to invest EUR 150 million in high-quality and strategically located office buildings in Madrid and Barcelona, cities recognised for their strong market dynamics and attractiveness for both tenants and investors. The JV looks to acquire assets that allow for active management focused on improving ESG credentials, occupancy, technical specifications of the building, and the environment for tenants. In the short term, the JV aims to selectively add one or two more assets to its portfolio. Both Madrid and Barcelona are highly attractive destinations for occupiers looking to locate or expand within these cities. The high quality of life, highly skilled labour force, strong (inter)national transport links, and relative affordability are all factors indicating that employment and population growth in these cities will outpace other European peers. In addition, recent changes in work patterns have led multinationals and SMEs to reconsider their office presence due to new and accelerating trends such as "working local" and decentralisation of office space. This is expected to continue generating interesting investment opportunities in the submarkets of both cities. Jonathan Willen, CEO of Europi, comments: "This is our second direct investment in Spain and demonstrates our continued high conviction in the strategy and our partner Kefren Capital Real Estate. We believe it's possible to find attractive investment opportunities in Barcelona and Madrid even in the current macroeconomic environment and continue to look for appropriate new opportunities in these markets." Pelayo, CEO of Kefren Capital, comments: "We are proud to continue to expand our JV with Europi Property Group and the Arie Family Office with the addition of this building to our portfolio. In a context of uncertainty in the real estate market, we have managed to close the acquisition and financing of this grade A, high yielding asset in a gentrified urban location of Barcelona. This represents an important step in our strategy as Value-Add investors in Spain. Our main objective is to create attractive workspaces for occupiers, with a focus on environmental sustainability. We strive to obtain the highest ESG certifications for our assets." CONTACT: For further information please contact: Jonathan Willen, CEO Europi Property Group, E-mail: [email protected] Pelayo Primo de Rivera, Executive Chairman Kefren Capital Real Estate, E-mail: [email protected] The following files are available for download: https://news.cision.com/europi-property-group/i/siemens-building,c3184098 Siemens Building SOURCE Europi Property Group SAN FRANCISCO, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living (SFCJL) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Adrienne Green as its new Chief Executive Officer. She will begin leading the 150-year-old nonprofit on July 18, 2023. San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living Announces Dr. Adrienne Green as its new Chief Executive Officer Dr. Green most recently served as the Chief Medical Officer for Adult Services and Vice President for Regulatory and Medical Affairs at UCSF Health for 8 years. She is board-certified in internal medicine and has practiced as a hospitalist at UCSF since 1998. At UCSF, Dr. Green was particularly focused on patient quality and safety. She relishes leading teams to achieve results based on building strong relationships, collaboration, initiative, and excellence. She has managed complex systems and programs at UCSF and brings extraordinary insight into the patient, family, and professional caregiver experience. "We are pleased that the search process resulted in the hiring of Dr. Green, and we know that she will lead the organization into its next 150 years with confidence, compassion, and a deep commitment to the Jewish values that are embodied daily in the life of the Campus," said search committee chairs and trustees, Jim Koshland and Alex Mann. Dr. Green's interest in the skilled nursing space started early in her career as a hospitalist when she cared for patients in the skilled nursing unit at Mount Zion Hospital. Shortly thereafter as the medical director for case management, she became immersed in discharge planning and familiar with the post-acute and skilled nursing facility landscape in San Francisco. As part of a post-acute strategic planning effort in 2014, she helped to launch the first UCSF skilled nursing facility and home health collaborative. SFCJL participated in the collaborative, and it was through that effort that Dr. Green was able to visit and become better acquainted with SFCJL's programs. Her relationship with the SFCJL continued and until her appointment as CEO, Dr. Green was a Trustee of the Board. "We are excited that Adrienne, a former member of our Board of Trustees, has accepted this role," said David Lowi, board chair. "I am confident that Dr. Green will exemplify one of my favorite Jewish sayings. "From Strength to Strength May We be Strengthened." Dr. Green grew up in Portland Oregon and received her undergraduate degree from Wesleyan University. She attended the Hahnemann University School of Medicine, now part of Drexel University College of Medicine, and completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Stanford University. She lives in San Francisco with her family. "As a Trustee of the Board, I have come to not only admire the care provided at SFCJL, but also to find myself more invested in all components of the organization," Green said. "As a physician, as an engaged member of our Jewish community, and as someone who cares deeply about our elderly patients and staff who work in senior care, I am inspired and motivated by this opportunity. It brings my passion, training, and expertise together in a most meaningful way." SFCJL was founded as the Hebrew Home for the Aged in 1871, and since that time has served hundreds of thousands of older adults in the Bay Area. The organization currently serves 2,000 people annually through and with skilled nursing, short-stay rehab, an acute geriatric psychiatric hospital, assisted living and memory care. The Trustees and staff thank Mary Connick, current CFO, who has served as the interim CEO for the past 18 months; her dedication, guidance, and steady hand are deeply appreciated. Contact: Staci Chang 415-469-2244 [email protected] SOURCE San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living Theatre Director/Teacher from South Plantation High School celebrated on Broadway's biggest nightSunday, June 11th at the 76th Annual Tony Awards #ApplaudMyTeacher NEW YORK & PITTSBURGH, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Tony Awards and Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) announced today that theatre director/teacher Jason Zembuch Young of South Plantation High School in Plantation, Florida, will receive the 2023 Excellence in Theatre Education Award. Jason Zembuch Young, 2023 Excellence in Theatre Education Award Winner The Excellence in Theatre Education Award was co-founded in 2014 by the Tony Awards and CMU to recognize top K-12 drama teachers and to celebrate arts education. Zembuch Young will receive his award at The 76th Annual Tony Awards on Sunday, June 11, at the historic United Palace in New York City's Washington Heights. Making theatre accessible for all audiences has been the hallmark of Zembuch Young's 20 years as a drama teacher. Each year, he produces two full-length mainstage productions, a play and a musical, in both voice and American Sign Language (ASL). As an advocate for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) population, Zembuch Young has reshaped policies to provide interpreters during and after school to teach his hearing and DHH actors and crew how to communicate and perform. "As a high school theatre teacher, I've had the opportunity to work with many students from different backgrounds with varying exceptionalities. When we are inclusive in the theatre, everyone is better for it. Everyone deserves to have a voice," said Zembuch Young. "It is in the theatre that we have an opportunity to give our students a platform to use that voice, regardless of who they are, where they come from, or what language they use to communicate." Zembuch Young runs a one-person, zero-budget public school theatre department with upwards of 150 students participating in performances. He also operates a six-week summer-stock theatre camp for elementary and middle school students, using high school drama students as counselors and mentors. With his South Plantation School students, he participates in International Thespian district and state competitions and is an eight-time South Florida CAPPIE winner for Best Play or Musical. Zembuch Young fundraises annually to provide four $1,000 scholarships to help graduating seniors. Helping others overcome disability or life circumstances doesn't stop when the school bell rings for Zembuch Young. He and his husband Michael have fostered more than 35 abused and underprivileged children. He's facilitated the adoption of foster kids in his care and became an adoptive parent himself. He offers free admission to all performances for foster families so that they can experience live theatre. A panel of theatre experts from the American Theatre Wing, The Broadway League and Carnegie Mellon University selected Zembuch Young from a nationwide call for entries. "We are thrilled to present the 2023 Excellence in Theatre Education Award to Jason Zembuch Young," said Charlotte St. Martin, President of The Broadway League, and Heather Hitchens, President and CEO of the American Theatre Wing. "Jason's exceptional commitment to empowering every student to make and be part of theatre has won the hearts and appreciation of his local community and now the Broadway community, as well." The Excellence in Theatre Education Award recognizes a K-12 theatre educator in the U.S. who has demonstrated exemplary impact on the lives of students and who embodies the highest standards of the profession. Zembuch Young will receive $10,000 for South Plantation High School's theatre program and tickets to The Tony Awards and Gala. Zembuch Young's students will also receive a visiting Master Class taught by CMU Drama professors. "New trails are blazed when teachers challenge paradigms in the name of art, expression and accessibility," said Carnegie Mellon University President Farnam Jahanian. "Jason Zembuch Young is an extraordinary educator who has used the power of theatre to profoundly impact the lives of his students. CMU is proud to present this award to Jason in recognition of his positive influence and remarkable achievements." Tune in to The 76th Annual Tony Awards The American Theatre Wing's 76th Annual Tony Awards, presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing, will air LIVE on Sunday, June 11, 2023 from the historic United Palace in Washington Heights in New York City from 8:00-11:00 PM, ET/5:00-8:00 PM, PT on the CBS Television Network, and streaming live and on demand on Paramount+. CBS and Pluto TV will present The Tony Awards: Act One, a pre-show of live, exclusive content leading into The 76th Annual Tony Awards. The celebration commences at 6:30-8:00 PM, ET/3:30-5:00 PM PT, on Pluto TV, the leading free streaming television service (FAST). Viewers can access the show on their smart TV, streaming device, mobile app or online by going to Pluto TV and clicking on the "Pluto TV Celebrity" channel (no payment, registration or sign-in required). About the Tony Awards The American Theatre Wing's Tony Awards are presented by The Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing. At The Broadway League, Lauren Reid is Chair and Charlotte St. Martin is President. At the American Theatre Wing, Emilio Sosa is Chair and Heather A. Hitchens is President & CEO. Sponsors for The Tony Awards include: Carnegie Mellon University - the first-ever, exclusive higher education partner; City National Bank - the official bank of The Tony Awards; Playbill; Rainbow Room - the official partner of the Tony Nominee Luncheon; Sofitel New York - the official hotel of The Tony Awards; United Airlines - the official airline of The Tony Awards for over 20 years; Zacapa Rum - the official partner of the Tony Awards; Baccarat - the official partner of the Tony Awards; and Ketel One Vodka - the official partner of the Tony Awards. About Carnegie Mellon University Carnegie Mellon is a private, internationally ranked research university with programs in areas ranging from science, technology and business, to public policy, the humanities and the arts. More than 13,000 students in the university's seven schools and colleges benefit from a small student-to-faculty ratio and an education characterized by its focus on creating and implementing solutions for real problems, interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. Together with the Tony Awards, Carnegie Mellon University presents the Excellence in Theatre Education Award. Carnegie Mellon's School of Drama is the first degree-granting drama program in the United States and celebrated its centennial in 2014. In the past century, CMU has produced hundreds of Tony nominees, and its alumni have won 58 Tony Awards to date. SOURCE Carnegie Mellon University Winner of new contest will receive free Sliders for a year, special recognition during complimentary trip to White Castle's home office, and more TV personality and Cravers Hall of Famer Adam Richman will serve as a judge COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Calling all culinary enthusiasts! White Castle, the beloved home of The Original Slider, is introducing the "White Castle Slider Showdown," a recipe contest seeking the tastiest, most mouthwatering recipes featuring at least six Sliders as the main ingredient. White Castle launched its Slider Showdown contest to find the best recipes using Sliders as the main ingredient. Tweet this White Castle introduces its Slider Showdown, a contest to find the best recipes using White Castle Sliders as the main ingredient. White Castle announces its Slider Showdown, a contest to find the best recipes using Sliders as the main ingredient. The White Castle Slider Showdown begins today and ends at midnight on Sept. 4, 2023. Participants can enter their recipes by posting a video on a public TikTok account or a video or photo carousel on a public Instagram account using the hashtag #SliderShowdownContest and tagging @WhiteCastle. The video (or photos) must show the ingredients, the preparation method and the final product, and a detailed written recipe must be included in the post. Recipes must use at least six beef Sliders (Original, Cheese or Jalapeno) with or without pickles. The Sliders can be purchased at a White Castle restaurant or from a retail store. (Retail Sliders are available in the frozen aisles of most major grocery stores in all 50 states.) A complete set of rules can be found at WhiteCastle.com. Participants must be at least 18 years old to enter. "White Castle Cravers are truly among the most inventive foodies out there," said Jamie Richardson, vice president at White Castle. "The White Castle Slider Showdown is a platform to spotlight their craveativity and to showcase the versatility of our Sliders." TV personality Adam Richman of "Man v. Food" fame, a member of the 2020 Cravers Hall of Fame class, will serve as one of the contest's five judges. He and the other judges will rate the recipes based on presentation, taste appeal, originality and video quality. The winner will receive free Sliders for a year, recognition at a special event at White Castle's home office in early 2024, and White Castle swag. A collection of Craver recipes was published in the 2005 cookbook, By the Sackful. White Castle's website features more than 75 Slider-based recipes, many of which came from entries in the "Crave Time Cookoff," a cooking contest that White Castle hosted several years ago. White Castle is hoping to add at least another dozen or so craveable recipes that reimagine the classic Slider in dishes that everyone will love. "Our 102 years as a family-owned business has been a collaboration with customers since day one," Richardson said. "We can't wait to see what new directions Cravers go with these recipes. They may very well redefine the way we savor our beloved one-of-a-kind Sliders. About White Castle White Castle, America's first fast-food hamburger chain, has been making hot and tasty Sliders since 1921. Based in Columbus, Ohio, the family-owned business owns and operates more than 350 restaurants as well as a retail division providing its famous fare in freezer aisles of retail stores nationwide. As part of its commitment to offering the highest quality products, White Castle owns and operates its own Slider Provider meat plants, bakeries and frozen-Slider retail plants. White Castle has earned numerous accolades over the years including Time magazine's "Most Influential Burger of All Time" (2014, The Original Slider) and Thrillist's "Best Plant-Based Fast-Food Burger" (2019, Impossible Slider). In 2021, Fast Company named the fast-food pioneer one of the "10 Most Innovative Dining Companies." White Castle, which earned the Great Place to Work Certification in 2021 and 2022, is known for the legendary engagement of its team members, more than 1 in 4 of whom have worked for the business for at least 10 years. White Castle is beloved by its passionate fans ("Cravers"), many of whom compete each year for entry into the Cravers Hall of Fame. The official White Castle app makes it easy for Cravers to sign up for the Craver Nation loyalty program, access sweet deals and place pickup orders at any time. They can also have their orders delivered using one of White Castle's delivery partners. For more information on White Castle, visit whitecastle.com. SOURCE White Castle A 19-year-old man has been arrested in connection with an incident Monday night in which a Tonawanda police officer was dragged by a motorist fleeing from a traffic stop in a stolen vehicle. Town Supervisor Joseph Emminger said Dareious Akbar was charged with second-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault, aggravated assault upon a police officer and third-degree criminal possession of stolen property. He said Akbar pleaded not guilty to the charges and was ordered held without bail pending a court appearance June 5. The arrest was first reported by WIVB-TV. Officer David Piatek was seriously injured about 8 p.m. Monday after he stopped a stolen Kia Sportage near Sheridan Parkside Drive and Pyle Court and it sped away. Piatek, a two-year veteran of the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, was taken to Erie County Medical Center, where he is listed in stable condition. Crime Stoppers WNY had offered a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to an arrest or indictment of the persons responsible. Auto thefts have been on the rise in the region since late last year, but especially over the first four months of 2023, according to data provided by several local police departments. Police have said much of the surge is due to thefts of Kia and Hyundai vehicles thanks to a national social media trend of videos showing how to start and steal them. It was the second time in four months that an area police officer has been seriously injured by the driver of an allegedly stolen vehicle. Cheektowaga Police Officer Troy Blackchief was hit Feb. 6 on Union Road as police pursued two stolen vehicles out of Depew. Blackchief suffered a skull fracture and a brain injury, among other injuries. Earlier this month, Cheektowaga police said he was continuing to make progress, recently had successful surgery at Erie County Medical Center, was undergoing rehab in Chicago and left May 4 for more rehabilitation in Texas. A 17-year-old faces nine felony charges in that case. CINCINNATI, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Range USA, the world's largest operator of indoor gun ranges, opened its 43rd location in Richmond, Texas on May 30th, 2023. This is the 5th Range USA store to open in the Houston market. "We are very excited about Richmond's opening and being able to serve customers in the southwest Houston corridor," said Tom Willingham, founder of Range USA. "There's just so much opportunity to grow our footprint in the Houston market given the massive population growth over the years." With 15,000 square feet of retail and range space, Range USA offers a large selection of firearms, ammunition and accessories, (20) 25-yard, open-to-the-public shooting lanes and (2) 25-person capacity classrooms. For those who will visit the range more often, range memberships are available. RangeUSA.com is a full eCommerce platform offering an additional 40,000 firearm products, online courses, and other services to purchase. "Our mission is for our team to help develop responsible gun owners," said Willingham. "As part of that mission, we want to set the standard for approachable, clean, and safe indoor gun ranges. We will be the place everyone thinks of when saying 'let's go to the range' America's gun range." The new store employs, on average, 25-30 part-time and full-time employees and is located at 23603 Farm to Market 1093 in Richmond. Store hours are 10am 8pm (Sunday Thursday) and 10am 9pm (Friday and Saturday). A grand-opening event is set for Friday, June 9th to Sunday, June 11th at Range USA's Richmond location. Customers can expect free items, discounts, and giveaways for anyone 21 years of age or older. Details can be found on the company website at RangeUSA.com. About Since 2012, Range USA has been committed to providing a safe, responsible, and enjoyable place to shop, shoot and learn about firearms. In our stores, Range USA welcomes customers of all skill levels and backgrounds, with instruction, expertise, and an atmosphere of community. Of course, Range USA offers a great selection of top selling firearms, ammo, and accessories. But safety and enjoyment continue to be our focal pointwhich is why our range facilities are designed for your enjoyment and experience. Range USA classes, available online and in-person, are taught by certified instructors who have helped thousands of customers become responsible firearm owners. It only takes one visit to experience the Range USA difference! SOURCE Range USA Tint World Fayetteville offers world-class automotive products and service for customers throughout Southeastern North Carolina, including Fort Bragg FAYETTEVILLE, N.C., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, a leading window tinting and automotive accessory franchise, celebrates the soft opening of its new location in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Tint World Fayetteville, owned by Shawn McMaster, Jaysen McMaster Foreman, and Candi Krueger, provides premium automotive aftermarket styling services for residents in the Fayetteville area, including the brave service members stationed at Fort Bragg. Tint World Automotive Styling Centers, a leading window tinting and automotive accessory franchise, celebrates the soft opening of its new location in Fayetteville, North Carolina. "The three of us share a passion for automobiles, and we all love North Carolina," said Shawn McMaster. "We have extensive experience with Tint World, and we are proud to bring their world-class offerings to the Fayetteville community. We are also thrilled to be able to serve Fort Bragg and the area's military community. Our brand-new, state-of-the-art facility is backed by Tint World's industry-leading business model, which is based on equipping its franchisees with all the tools needed for success. As a result, we're uniquely positioned and excited to meet and exceed the expectations of our customers." Tint World Fayetteville marks the eighth location in North Carolina, with their official grand opening celebration scheduled for July. Shawn, Jaysen, and Candi also own and operate Tint World Greensboro and have two additional Tint World franchise locations scheduled to open in the near future. "Our continuing success throughout North Carolina demonstrates the strength of Tint World's proven franchise system and vision for growth," said Charles J. Bonfiglio, president and CEO of Tint World. "Shawn, Jaysen and Candi have embraced our reliable, repeatable processes, with results that speak for themselves. Their continued commitment to Tint World and their customers shows what is possible for our franchisees, inspiring all of us to continue aiming for the highest levels of success." Tint World Fayetteville, located at 621 Bonanza Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28303, serves Fayetteville, Stedman, Fort Bragg, Dunn, Hope Mills, Woodbridge, Judson, Fenix, East Over, Wade, and Vander. To book an appointment, request a quote, or find out more about the store and its products and services, call (910) 900-8318 or visit https://www.tintworld.com/locations/nc/fayetteville-163/. Tint World Automotive Styling Centers offer sales and installation of auto accessories, mobile electronics, audio video equipment, security systems, custom wheels and tire packages, window tinting, vehicle wraps, paint protection films, detailing services, nano ceramic coatings, maintenance, and repair services, and more. Tint World is also the leading provider of residential, commercial, and marine computerized window tinting and security film services for residential, commercial, and marine applications. With locations spanning the U.S. and abroad, there are countless franchise opportunities available worldwide. About Tint World Founded in 1982, Tint World Automotive Styling Centers is America's largest and fastest-growing automotive accessories and window tinting international franchise, specializing in window tinting, protective films, vehicle wraps, audio and electronics, security systems, car and truck accessories, wheels, and tires, detailing and ceramic coating, and installation services. Tint World Mobile Services include marine, residential, and commercial window tinting films, solar films, decorative films, safety and security films, and protective ceramic coatings. Tint World has locations in the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, with master franchise opportunities available worldwide. To find out more, please visit www.TintWorld.com or https://www.tintworld.com/franchise-opportunities . Tint World Contact: Charles J. Bonfiglio, CEO (800) 767-8468 [email protected] MEDIA CONTACT: Heather Ripley Ripley PR (865) 977-1973 [email protected] SOURCE Tint World NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tony's Mission Lock is a brand-new legal structure that utilizes a golden share to forever protect Tony's mission of eliminating child- and illegal labor in the chocolate industry, regardless of the shareholder structure of the company. Tony's Mission Lock Mission Guardian Seth Goldman This ground breaking new mechanism will be overseen by three experienced Mission Guardians, S eth Goldman, Ikenna Azuike and Anne-Wil Dijkstra . Holding a golden share in the company, Mission Guardians will have the power to prevent any legal changes to the definition of the company's mission and 5 Sourcing Principles. Mission Guardians will have several escalation levers to ultimately hold Tony's leadership team to account publicly and judicially. Tony's hopes that the Tony's Mission Lock structure will act as an inspiration to other companies looking to protect their mission for the long term. Irrevocable legal structure protecting Tony's mission Tony's mission of eradicating exploitation in the chocolate industry, its 5 Sourcing Principles and the legal obligation of Tony's leadership team to uphold these, are already embedded in Tony's Articles of Association. The company is now going one step further to indefinitely safeguard the company's purpose, by introducing a brand-new governing structure: Tony's Mission Lock. Tony's Mission Lock utilizes a golden share (a non-economic stake in the company). This means Tony's mission, the 5 Sourcing Principles and the company's core values cannot be amended without approval of the new governing structure effectively and irrevocably locking Tony's impact for as long as the company exists. Independent 'Mission Guardians' to oversee the structure Three independent Mission Guardians with strong track records in social impact and sustainability spheres will have the sole responsibility to act as representatives and guardians of Tony's mission. The structure is chaired by Seth Goldman, Founder of Honest Tea and Eat the Change and Chair of Beyond Meat. Seth is a world-leading impact entrepreneur with extensive experience in growing mission-led companies with a range of public and private shareholder structures. Lawyer turned broadcaster, Ikenna Azuike brings a breadth of experience in social and climate activism, strategy and journalism, an understanding of West Africa's socioeconomic context, as well as legal experience from his early career as a lawyer to the table. Anne-Wil Dijkstra, Tony's former Chief of Impact, Operations and People & Culture, rounds off the Mission Guardian trio and brings to the team valuable insider knowledge of Tony's impact model and hands-on experience of implementing this model operationally. On Tony's Mission Lock and his role as Mission Guardian, Seth Goldman elaborates: "I've learnt from my own experience that even when we create companies with the highest aspirations in mission, times change, people change new people come in, and organizations change too. So, historically no mission is guaranteed. I hope we can serve as advocates for all people and communities around the world that are served and supported by Tony's 5 Sourcing Principles. Like anything new and unproven, I'm sure we will learn along the way. But I also hope our approach can become a model for other purpose-driven brands." Tools for collaboration and accountability In addition to holding a golden share, Mission Guardians have access to a suite of tools that they can utilize when they believe a major breach of the company's mission-related responsibilities may be happening. This 'break glass in emergency' approach enables them to work proactively and collaboratively with senior management to first understand the detail behind any serious concerns expressed to them and swiftly resolve these. Any stakeholder who has a relationship with the company can raise any serious concerns anonymously with the Mission Guardians, including employees, cocoa farmers, business partners and Choco Fans via: [email protected]. In extreme circumstances where these issues are not resolved, the Mission Guardians have the right to escalate these concerns publicly via a double page spread in the company's annual FAIR report, through international full-page newspaper advertisements in each of the major markets that Tony's is active in and, ultimately, by referring the matter for legal investigation and arbitration at the Enterprise Chamber of the Court of Appeal in Amsterdam. A blueprint for impact companies As always, Tony's hopes their ambitious new move will inspire other impact brands to follow. "A growing number of purpose-driven companies are looking for ways to secure their impact models at the core of their business permanently and irrevocably, independent of shareholder structure.", says Tony's Chief Chocolonely, Douglas Lamont. "With this model, we hope to role model what we believe to be a powerful mechanism to protect our mission and Sourcing Principles forever and act as an inspiration for others to look more closely at what they can do to secure their mission too. To help other companies copy the approach and raise the bar collectively, Tony's will be sharing the full details of Tony's Mission Lock's structure open source. The Mission Guardians and Tony's Chief Chocolonely, Douglas Lamont, will officially sign the structure's formation document live at Tony's FAIR, on June 8, 2023, in Amsterdam. They will discuss what this evolution of a Mission Lock means, both to Tony's mission and that of other impact companies, during a live Q&A. About Tony's Chocolonely Tony's Chocolonely is an impact company that makes chocolate. Since 2005, Tony's Chocolonely has dedicated its efforts to raising awareness of and eliminating inequality in the chocolate industry. They aim to lead by example, building direct, long-term relationships with cocoa farmers in Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire, paying them a higher price and working together to solve the underlying causes of modern slavery and child labor. Tony's Chocolonely is a B Corp and Fairtrade-certified. About Tony's 5 Sourcing Principles Tony's 5 Sourcing Principles address the complex issue of poverty in cocoa through concrete solutions. The principles are (1) sourcing fully traceable beans, (2) paying a higher price for cocoa to enable farmers to earn a living income, (3) promoting strong farmers via partner co-operatives to professionalize and make the work of cocoa farming safe and sustainable, (4) engaging in long-term commitments to boost farmers' income security, (5) training farmers to improve their cocoa productivity and quality as well as their agricultural knowledge on crops. Applying all five principles can structurally improve the lives of cocoa farmers. For more information contact: Lede [email protected] Website: https://www.tonyschocolonely.com/ SOURCE Tonys Chocolonely NEW YORK, May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The toy market size is set to grow by USD 26.16 billion between 2022 and 2027 and register a CAGR of 4.42%, according to Technavio's latest market research report. With a focus on identifying dominant industry influencers, Technavio's reports present a detailed study by 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 has announced its latest market research report titled Global Toy Market 2023-2027 Discover market potential and make informed business decisions based on qualitative and quantitative evidence highlighted in Technavio reports. Read our Sample Report Factors such as increasing personal disposable income and rising middle-class population, the rise in online sales, and the increasing popularity of toy gifting culture will offer immense growth opportunities. To leverage the current opportunities, market vendors must strengthen their foothold in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. The toy market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Toy Market 2023-2027: Segmentation Product Outdoor Toys And Dolls: The market share growth by the outdoor toys and dolls segment will be significant during the forecast period. The introduction of technologically advanced dolls in the market and increasing demand for character dolls will increase the demand for dolls during the forecast period. Building Sets And Puzzles Action Figures And Vehicles Others Distribution Channel Offline Online Geography North America: North America is estimated to contribute 45% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. The growing demand for premium toys, the increasing spending power of consumers, and the presence of several prominent vendors are expected to drive regional market growth during the forecast period. Europe APAC South America Middle East And Africa Detail Insights on the impact of each segment and make informed business decisions: https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR71458 Toy Market 2023-2027: Vendor Analysis and Scope Some of the major vendors of the toy market in Leisure Products industry include Aoshima Bunka Kyozai Co. Ltd., Bandai Namco Holdings Inc., BASIC FUN Inc., Clementoni Spa, Dream International Ltd., geobra Brandstatter Stiftung and Co. KG, Hasbro Inc., JAKKS Pacific Inc., Kids2 Inc., LEGO System AS, Mattel Inc., Mindware Inc., Moose Enterprise Pty. Ltd., Pegasus Toykraft Pvt. Ltd., Ravensburger AG, Spin Master Corp., The Walt Disney Co., TOMY Co. Ltd., Tru Kids Brand, and VTech Holdings Ltd.. To help businesses improve their market position, Technavio's report provides a detailed analysis of around 15+ vendors operating in the market. To leverage the current opportunities, market vendors must strengthen their foothold in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research reports on the toy market are designed to provide entry support, customer profile & M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support. aoshima-bk.co.jp- The company offers toys such as plastic model kit, radio control and die-cast toy. bandainamco.co.jp- The company offers toys such as capsule toys, cards and plastic models. basicfun.com- The company offers toys such as Arcade Classics, Candy Pop and CurliGirls. The report also covers the following areas: Market Drivers Increasing personal disposable income and rising middle-class population Rise in online sales Increasing popularity of toy gifting culture Market Trends The rising popularity of construction toys Introduction of eco-friendly toys Increasing adoption of multi-channel marketing and promotional strategies by vendors Market Challenges The growing popularity of digital games and e-games Seasonal demand and short life of merchandise and collectibles Presence of counterfeit products Get lifetime access to our Technavio Insights. Subscribe now to our most popular "Lite Plan" billed annually at USD 5000. View 3 reports monthly and Download 3 Reports Annually! Toy Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2023-2027 Detailed information on factors that will assist toy market growth during the next five years Estimation of the toy market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the toy market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of toy market vendors Related Reports: Foam-Based Weaponry Toy Market- The global Foam-Based Weaponry Toy Market size is estimated to grow by USD 24,256.7 million between 2022 and 2027 accelerating at a CAGR of 5.64%. Educational Toys Market- The Global Educational Toys Market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.7% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 16,043.98 million. Toy Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 4.42% Market growth 2023-2027 $ 26.16 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023(%) 4.14 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 45% Key countries US, China, Japan, UK, and Germany Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Aoshima Bunka Kyozai Co. Ltd., Bandai Namco Holdings Inc., BASIC FUN Inc., Clementoni Spa, Dream International Ltd., geobra Brandstatter Stiftung and Co. KG, Hasbro Inc., JAKKS Pacific Inc., Kids2 Inc., LEGO System AS, Mattel Inc., Mindware Inc., Moose Enterprise Pty. Ltd., Pegasus Toykraft Pvt. Ltd., Ravensburger AG, Spin Master Corp., The Walt Disney Co., TOMY Co. Ltd., Tru Kids Brand, and VTech Holdings 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 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. 1 Executive Summary 1.1 Market overview Exhibit 01: Executive Summary Chart on Market Overview Exhibit 02: Executive Summary Data Table on Market Overview Exhibit 03: Executive Summary Chart on Global Market Characteristics Exhibit 04: Executive Summary Chart on Market by Geography Exhibit 05: Executive Summary Chart on Market Segmentation by Product Exhibit 06: Executive Summary Chart on Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel Exhibit 07: Executive Summary Chart on Incremental Growth Exhibit 08: Executive Summary Data Table on Incremental Growth Exhibit 09: Executive Summary Chart on Vendor Market Positioning 2 Market Landscape 2.1 Market ecosystem Exhibit 10: Parent market Exhibit 11: Market Characteristics 3 Market Sizing 3.1 Market definition Exhibit 12: Offerings of vendors included in the market definition 3.2 Market segment analysis Exhibit 13: Market segments 3.3 Market size 2022 3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2022-2027 Exhibit 14: Chart on Global - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 15: Data Table on Global - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) 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 toy market 2017 - 2021 Exhibit 18: Historic Market Size Data Table on Global toy market 2017 - 2021 ($ billion) 4.2 Product Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021 Exhibit 19: Historic Market Size Product Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ billion) 4.3 Distribution channel Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021 Exhibit 20: Historic Market Size Distribution channel Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ billion) 4.4 Geography Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021 Exhibit 21: Historic Market Size Geography Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ billion) 4.5 Country Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021 Exhibit 22: Historic Market Size Country Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ billion) 5 Five Forces Analysis 5.1 Five forces summary Exhibit 23: Five forces analysis - Comparison between 2022 and 2027 5.2 Bargaining power of buyers Exhibit 24: Chart on Bargaining power of buyers Impact of key factors 2022 and 2027 5.3 Bargaining power of suppliers Exhibit 25: Bargaining power of suppliers Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027 5.4 Threat of new entrants Exhibit 26: Threat of new entrants Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027 5.5 Threat of substitutes Exhibit 27: Threat of substitutes Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027 5.6 Threat of rivalry Exhibit 28: Threat of rivalry Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027 5.7 Market condition Exhibit 29: Chart on Market condition - Five forces 2022 and 2027 6 Market Segmentation by Product 6.1 Market segments Exhibit 30: Chart on Product - Market share 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 31: Data Table on Product - Market share 2022-2027 (%) 6.2 Comparison by Product Exhibit 32: Chart on Comparison by Product Exhibit 33: Data Table on Comparison by Product 6.3 Outdoor toys and dolls - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 34: Chart on Outdoor toys and dolls - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 35: Data Table on Outdoor toys and dolls - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 36: Chart on Outdoor toys and dolls - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 37: Data Table on Outdoor toys and dolls - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 6.4 Building sets and puzzles - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 38: Chart on Building sets and puzzles - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 39: Data Table on Building sets and puzzles - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 40: Chart on Building sets and puzzles - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 41: Data Table on Building sets and puzzles - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 6.5 Action figures and vehicles - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 42: Chart on Action figures and vehicles - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 43: Data Table on Action figures and vehicles - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 44: Chart on Action figures and vehicles - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 45: Data Table on Action figures and vehicles - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 6.6 Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 46: Chart on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 47: Data Table on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 48: Chart on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 49: Data Table on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 6.7 Market opportunity by Product Exhibit 50: Market opportunity by Product ($ billion) 7 Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel 7.1 Market segments Exhibit 51: Chart on Distribution Channel - Market share 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 52: Data Table on Distribution Channel - Market share 2022-2027 (%) 7.2 Comparison by Distribution Channel Exhibit 53: Chart on Comparison by Distribution Channel Exhibit 54: Data Table on Comparison by Distribution Channel 7.3 Offline - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 55: Chart on Offline - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 56: Data Table on Offline - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 57: Chart on Offline - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 58: Data Table on Offline - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 7.4 Online - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 59: Chart on Online - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 60: Data Table on Online - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 61: Chart on Online - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 62: Data Table on Online - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 7.5 Market opportunity by Distribution Channel Exhibit 63: Market opportunity by Distribution Channel ($ billion) 8 Customer Landscape 8.1 Customer landscape overview Exhibit 64: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria 9 Geographic Landscape 9.1 Geographic segmentation Exhibit 65: Chart on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 66: Data Table on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%) 9.2 Geographic comparison Exhibit 67: Chart on Geographic comparison Exhibit 68: Data Table on Geographic comparison 9.3 North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 69: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 70: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 71: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 72: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.4 Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 73: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 74: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 75: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 76: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.5 APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 77: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 78: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 79: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 80: Data Table on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 81: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 82: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 83: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 84: Data Table on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.7 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 85: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 86: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 87: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) and - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 88: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.8 US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 89: Chart on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 90: Data Table on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 91: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 92: 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 93: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 94: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 95: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 96: 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 97: Chart on Japan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 98: Data Table on Japan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 99: Chart on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 100: Data Table on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.11 UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 101: Chart on UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 102: Data Table on UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 103: Chart on UK - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 104: Data Table on UK - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.12 Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 105: Chart on Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 106: Data Table on Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ billion) Exhibit 107: Chart on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) Exhibit 108: Data Table on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%) 9.13 Market opportunity by geography Exhibit 109: Market opportunity by geography ($ billion) 10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10.1 Market drivers 10.2 Market challenges 10.3 Impact of drivers and challenges Exhibit 110: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2022 and 2027 10.4 Market trends 11 Vendor Landscape 11.1 Overview 11.2 Vendor landscape Exhibit 111: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation 11.3 Landscape disruption Exhibit 112: Overview on factors of disruption 11.4 Industry risks Exhibit 113: Impact of key risks on business 12 Vendor Analysis 12.1 Vendors covered Exhibit 114: Vendors covered 12.2 Market positioning of vendors Exhibit 115: Matrix on vendor position and classification 12.3 Aoshima Bunka Kyozai Co. Ltd. Exhibit 116: Aoshima Bunka Kyozai Co. Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 117: Aoshima Bunka Kyozai Co. Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 118: Aoshima Bunka Kyozai Co. Ltd. - Key offerings 12.4 Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. Exhibit 119: Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. - Overview Exhibit 120: Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 121: Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 122: Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. - Segment focus 12.5 BASIC FUN Inc. Exhibit 123: BASIC FUN Inc. - Overview Exhibit 124: BASIC FUN Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 125: BASIC FUN Inc. - Key news Exhibit 126: BASIC FUN Inc. - Key offerings 12.6 Clementoni Spa Exhibit 127: Clementoni Spa - Overview Exhibit 128: Clementoni Spa - Product / Service Exhibit 129: Clementoni Spa - Key offerings 12.7 Dream International Ltd. Exhibit 130: Dream International Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 131: Dream International Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 132: Dream International Ltd. - Key offerings 12.8 geobra Brandstatter Stiftung and Co. KG Exhibit 133: geobra Brandstatter Stiftung and Co. KG - Overview Exhibit 134: geobra Brandstatter Stiftung and Co. KG - Product / Service Exhibit 135: geobra Brandstatter Stiftung and Co. KG - Key offerings 12.9 Hasbro Inc. Exhibit 136: Hasbro Inc. - Overview Exhibit 137: Hasbro Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 138: Hasbro Inc. - Key news Exhibit 139: Hasbro Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 140: Hasbro Inc. - Segment focus 12.10 JAKKS Pacific Inc. Exhibit 141: JAKKS Pacific Inc. - Overview Exhibit 142: JAKKS Pacific Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 143: JAKKS Pacific Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 144: JAKKS Pacific Inc. - Segment focus 12.11 Kids2 Inc. Exhibit 145: Kids2 Inc. - Overview Exhibit 146: Kids2 Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 147: Kids2 Inc. - Key offerings 12.12 LEGO System AS Exhibit 148: LEGO System AS - Overview Exhibit 149: LEGO System AS - Product / Service Exhibit 150: LEGO System AS - Key news Exhibit 151: LEGO System AS - Key offerings 12.13 Mattel Inc. Exhibit 152: Mattel Inc. - Overview Exhibit 153: Mattel Inc. - Business segments Exhibit 154: Mattel Inc. - Key news Exhibit 155: Mattel Inc. - Key offerings Exhibit 156: Mattel Inc. - Segment focus 12.14 Mindware Inc. Exhibit 157: Mindware Inc. - Overview Exhibit 158: Mindware Inc. - Product / Service Exhibit 159: Mindware Inc. - Key offerings 12.15 Moose Enterprise Pty. Ltd. Exhibit 160: Moose Enterprise Pty. Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 161: Moose Enterprise Pty. Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 162: Moose Enterprise Pty. Ltd. - Key offerings 12.16 Pegasus Toykraft Pvt. Ltd. Exhibit 163: Pegasus Toykraft Pvt. Ltd. - Overview Exhibit 164: Pegasus Toykraft Pvt. Ltd. - Product / Service Exhibit 165: Pegasus Toykraft Pvt. Ltd. - Key offerings 12.17 Ravensburger AG Exhibit 166: Ravensburger AG - Overview Exhibit 167: Ravensburger AG - Product / Service Exhibit 168: Ravensburger AG - Key offerings 13 Appendix 13.1 Scope of the report 13.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist Exhibit 169: Inclusions checklist Exhibit 170: Exclusions checklist 13.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ Exhibit 171: Currency conversion rates for US$ 13.4 Research methodology Exhibit 172: Research methodology Exhibit 173: Validation techniques employed for market sizing Exhibit 174: Information sources 13.5 List of abbreviations Exhibit 175: List of abbreviations About Us Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contact Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio TPGi software and services enable global companies to increase revenue, improve customer experience, and comply with the European Accessibility Act CLEARWATER, Fla., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TPGi, a Vispero company, is pleased to announce their selection by one of the largest companies in the world to enable accessibility for their customers in Europe. This agreement represents a major milestone in the TPGi mission to change the digital world and make it accessible to all. It also reinforces the need for all global companies to fully comply with the European Accessibility Act (EAA) by 2025. Global companies offering their products and services in the EU have a shrinking window to act on the EAA. Tweet this A person sitting in a wheelchair in front of a desk interacting with a computer monitor. The EAA took effect in April 2019 and requires EU member countries to establish the local standards contained in the EAA by June 28, 2025. The EAA applies to companies providing goods or services of at least 2M in the European market, with a primary focus on the accessibility of digital assets such as websites and mobile applications. TPGi was selected by one of the largest organizations because of its accessibility expertise and experience as well as TPGi's unique full spectrum portfolio. While the organization intends to comply with the EAA in the required timeline, the overriding goal is that its products and services are usable by all consumers, including those with disabilities such as blindness or low vision. "We are thrilled to have TPGi's solution portfolio selected for such an important and expansive accessibility initiative. Global companies offering their products and services in the EU have a shrinking window to act on the EAA and ensure consumers can access their digital assets," said Bob Ciminera, CEO of Vispero. For more information about how TPGi can help your company conform with the European Accessibility Act, visit www.TPGi.com to speak with an accessibility expert. About Vispero Vispero is the global leader in assistive technology products for those with vision impairments. Freedom Scientific, TPGi, Enhanced Vision, and Optelec, all Vispero brands, have a long history of innovation for customers with accessibility needs. Today our product portfolio is considered one of the most diverse and reliable on the market. About TPGi TPGi provides digital accessibility software and services to help businesses reduce risk, grow revenue, and improve user experience. With over 20 years of experience and 21 employees actively influencing accessibility standards on the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), TPGi offers the most robust knowledge base and accessibility expertise in the industry as well as award-winning self-service kiosk software. Our tailored approach has enabled 1000+ customers to achieve the best outcomes for their business, their employees, and their consumers. Trust the experts to guide your accessibility journey. SOURCE TPGi LLC MIAMI, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Trawick International, an industry-leading international insurance company, today announced the appointment of Dr. Odemis Enriquez as Medical Director for its Latin America division, effective immediately. Dr. Enriquez joins Trawick International with vast experience in the medical and international insurance fields. She began her medical career in 1995 as an Attending Physician in Havana, Cuba. In 2012, she moved to Angola as a physician at MAXIMA Clinic, then, in 2016, transitioned into the international insurance space as a Medical Underwriter for Best Doctors. Most recently, she served as Patient Services Manager for Best Doctors, focusing on providing personalized service to clients and brokers. Dr. Enriquez joins the medical team led by Executive Medical Director Anshumali Dixit. She will focus on medical underwriting and reviewing insurance claims for Latin America to evaluate appropriateness and cost-effectiveness. President of Trawick International Latin America, David Capote, commented, "I am thrilled to have Dr. Enriquez join the team. Her background as a practicing medical doctor, combined with her experience in international insurance as an underwriter and patient services manager, is exactly what we need for the role of Medical Director. She is passionate about providing the highest possible service levels, which I am confident will translate to offering our clients the best possible experience." Dr. Enriquez graduated with a Medical Degree: Doctor of Medicine from the University of Medical Science of Havana, Cuba. She is tri-lingual, with fluency in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. About Trawick International Trawick International has been a leading provider of international insurance, administration, and other assistance services for 25 years. The Company offers a full suite of innovative products and services designed to support today's globally mobile population. For more, visit trawickinternational.com. Media Contact Melissa Nicholson Director of Corporate Communications Trawick International +1-949-275-7246 [email protected] SOURCE Trawick International SHANGHAI, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Trina Solar showcased its technical prowess and unveiled new products at the 16th International Photovoltaic Power Generation and Smart Energy Conference & Exhibition, which was has held at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre from May 23 to 26. At the event Trina Solar unveiled its new-generation 210mm Vertex n-type products of 695W, 605W and 450W, p-type Vertex 670W, TrinaTracker Vanguard 2P solution energy storage systems and other all-in-one smart energy solutions. All these products demonstrate the company's commitment to leading the way in smart solar energy solutions for a net-zero future. In addition, Trina Solar launched its advanced n-type i-TOPCon technology globally at the show, leading the n-type value. New products featuring state-of-the-art HJT and iBC technologies were also on display. Trina's booth attracted thousands of visitors from Europe, North America, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region. Trina Solar's Vertex N family made its debut at the SNEC, and the Vertex n-type 605W modules were installed in Trina's Tracker Vanguard 2P, and the technology drew a great deal of interest at the SNEC. Trina Solar's 210mm n-type scenario-based solutions are tailored to operate in a wide range of settings, with lower BOS costs and LCOE to maximize customer value. Trina Solar unveils its n-type i-TOPCon Advanced technology As an early mover with n-type technology, Trina Solar continues to innovate and to upgrade its product line, and the global launch of its n-type i-TOPCon Advanced technology took place at the SNEC. With this technology, cell efficiency has reached 26% and module output power 700W+, and the product will go into mass production next year. Trina Solar continues to innovate and expand its technical expertise in areas such as iBC and HJT. At the SNEC the company debuted its HJT PV modules with maximum power output of 730W+ and efficiency of 23.5%, which can increase power generation by 4-8%. SMBB combined with high-density encapsulation enables the modules to achieve ZERO cutting loss and an ultra-low carbon footprint 30% lower than PERC. Also unveiled were iBC PV modules with maximum power output of 480W+ and maximum efficiency of 24%. The modules, with an all-back contact and full passivation contact design, have non-front finger shading, presenting a perfect appearance and providing customers with the ultimate aesthetic experience. Trina Storage: As spotlight falls on integrating PV and energy storage system, the star product is Elementa Focusing on the integration of PV systems and energy storage, Trina Storage presented its leading products at the show, including the 306Ah Trina cell with more than 12,000 life cycles, the Trina Storage Elementa liquid cooling system with a longer system lifetime, in excess of 10,000 cycles, and residential energy storage products as well as its power conversion system. Trina also unveiled next-generation solutions for integrating PV systems and energy storage, demonstrating trends in technology applied to high-temperature lithium-ion battery energy storage systems without air conditioning. Trina Solar is pursuing breakthroughs in the high-potential energy storage segment with its technological advantages and safe and reliable products. Adaptable to more complex scenarios with upgraded Trina trackers The next-generation Vanguard 2P that was on display, with its multi-motor control system, is safer, more reliable and easier to install than traditional mechanical drives. The tracker can be adapted to more complex application settings, reducing LCOE and improving customer ROI. In desert, Gobi and wilderness settings the new Vanguard 2P can operate stably for 1,200 hours in temperatures as low as -30 C. The new POM-polymer composites used in the spherical bearing have high wear resistance and high rigidity, resulting in fatigue life of up to 25 years. The external raw materials used to manufacture the new Vanguard 2P are subjected to quality control in salt spray and to a cyclic corrosion test to ensure they are corrosion resistant in mudflats and coastal areas, and their water-resistant and dust-proof level reaches IP65 or above. Module reliability confirmed by third-parties Trina Solar is recognized and trusted by many international institutions, including CSG, EUPD, RETC and PVEL, for its module reliability. SOURCE Trina Solar Co., Ltd CHICAGO, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Truly Grass Fed, a premium brand of sustainably-produced dairy products from the green fields of Ireland, announced a packaging refresh of its natural creamy butter and natural cheese lines. New Truly Grass Fed Natural Creamy Butter Packaging Features Magenta and Green Colors to Help Differentiate On-Shelf New Truly Grass Fed Cheddar Packaging highlights key product attributes The company is unveiling the new packaging at its booth (Hall B, booth 3956) next week at the International Dairy Deli Bakery show in Anaheim, CA. Show attendees will have the opportunity to sample the brand's latest innovation launches and portfolio extensions at the booth. The new look is hitting retailers' shelves now and will continue to roll out across the US throughout the year. The new butter packaging features an emerald green and a bold magenta color while further communicating the benefits and differentiators of Truly Grass Fed. The packaging places an emphasis on key product attributes including stating that Truly Grass Fed's cows spend 250 days on pasture in the lush fields of Ireland. Truly Grass Fed's products bring the passion of Irish farmers to the marketplace with high-quality dairy ingredients. Along with being non-GMO project verified, Truly Grass Fed's products are free of all growth hormone rBST and antibiotics, and are Animal Welfare Approved by A Greener World. Truly Grass Fed's farms typically have an average of one cow for every two acres of land, and its farmers share deep bonds with their herds. As a farmer-owned co-operative organization, sustainability, regenerative agriculture practices and animal welfare are always top priorities. "We're pleased with our new packaging and believe that the different color scheme will help provide a point of distinction to consumers when purchasing in-stores," said Jaclyn Crabbe, Marketing Director for Truly Grass Fed. "We sought to create a design to set our products apart from a very analogous design approach, where most brands generally feature blue and yellow hues, and wanted to honor our Irish heritage, while communicating our premium points of difference and our sustainability story." The packaging refresh is the first for the brand since 2019, and the brand did extensive consumer research and testing to ensure positive feedback to the changes. In a Quant test, 69 percent of target consumers preferred the new packaging. "In addition to our consumers reacting positively to our new packaging, our key retailers have provided a lot of positive feedback too, especially when it comes to how our products now visually stand apart from others on shelves, and can easily speak to our high-quality proof points" said Conor O'Donovan, General Manager at Truly Grass Fed. For more information about Truly Grass Fed, please visit www.trulygrassfed.com . About Truly Grass Fed Truly Grass Fed is a premium brand of Irish dairy products crafted with integrity and care for people, animals, and the planet. The brand's distinctively creamy and delicious butter and cheese are made from cows that are 95% grass-fed, Non-GMO Project Verified, Animal Welfare Approved by A Greener World and free from growth hormones and antibiotics. Truly Grass Fed is elevating dairy to a new standard. The brand is strongly rooted in the art of farming but deeply dedicated to sustainability, transparency and progress with wholesome dairy from cows living their best lives outside, on pasture on average 250 days a year, grazing on green Irish grass. The Truly Grass Fed seal signifies that the dairy ingredients inside meet the highest industry standards of quality, safety, animal welfare and environmental consciousness. SOURCE Truly Grass Fed BATON ROUGE, La., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- University Products, a frontrunner in animal health innovation, recently brought attention to the economic challenges associated with thin cows, particularly those suffering from anaplasmosis, and the dangers posed by Cattle Fever Ticks (CFT) in the beef industry. The company encourages farmers to prioritize body condition scoring (BCS), along with anaplasmosis vaccination, to support cattle health initiatives that optimize productivity and minimize economic losses. Anaplasmosis Vaccine for Cattle The importance of BCS as a crucial tool for assessing the physical condition of cows during the most demanding period of gestation cannot be overstated, particularly in winter. Thin cows can have difficulty rebreeding, are more susceptible to diseases such as anaplasmosis, and are expensive additions to a herd. Early corrective measures can prevent a wide array of health issues and improve the overall well-being of the herd. But defining "thinness" is not always easy. The University of Guelph found that even trained evaluators have difficulty determining accurate body condition scores in winter. The ideal BCS for mature cows at calving is 2.5, while first-calf heifers should have a score of 3.0. All females should have a score of 2.5, 30 days before the start of the breeding season. Dr. Donald Luther of University Products also emphasized the importance of BCS: "Body condition scoring is a cost-effective and accurate method to assess the health of your cows. Proper BCS management not only promotes the welfare of the animals but also contributes to the economic success of the farm." University Products recommends a comprehensive approach to herd health, which includes the services of a livestock nutrition expert to balance rations and ensure cattle receive adequate levels of energy, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Maintaining proper body condition during pregnancy supports the immune systems of both the dam and calf, improving the overall health of the herd. And of course, vaccination helps protect the entire herd from the ongoing tick-borne anaplasmosis endemic. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service recently emphasized the importance of addressing Cattle Fever Ticks (CFTs: Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus and R. (B.) microplus), which serve as vectors for bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis. The Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program, launched in 1906, has confined CFT to a permanent quarantine zone running from Brownsville to Del Rio, Texas, along the Mexican border. Mounted tick patrols (tick riders) help collect and treat stray animals that wander in from Mexico and work alongside partners at the Texas Animal Health Commission. The program systematically detects, treats, and eradicates tick infestations, while other CFT populations are found in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Unfortunately, while these diseases can and continue to be mitigated, they still continue to plague the cattle industry. University Products is committed to developing a wide spectrum of modern solutions for the challenges facing the cattle industry, including groundbreaking research into vaccines for bovine babesiosis and theileriosis. The company's focus on proactive management strategies, such as BCS, addressing the threat of CFT, and combining both with innovative vaccine research and products, aims to create a healthier and more sustainable future for the cattle industry. *Facts and statistics sourced from: CanadianCattlemen.ca, "Thin Cows Cost Money"; and the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. About University Products LLC Based in Louisiana, University Products specializes in bovine vaccine (for experimental use). Their original anaplasmosis vaccine has been successfully deployed for over 24 years across the globe, minimizing clinical signs in at-risk animals. It is safe to use during bovine pregnancy and requires two initial doses plus annual boosters. The company is now researching vaccines for bovine babesiosis and theileriosis. A comprehensive vaccine description is available for PDF download. While veterinarians can inquire about availability by emailing Dr. Luther directly at [email protected]. Learn more at: www.AnaplasmosisVaccine.com. Media Contact: Wil Ray, Director, AgNewsAmerica 1-225-334-0851 [email protected] SOURCE University Products LLC Campuses named for distinction in assisted living and memory care categories LOUISVILLE, Ky., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Trilogy Health Services has three communities that have been recognized among the best by U.S. News & World Report in the 2023-2024 Best Senior Living Ratings. The communities along with their award recognitions include Shelby Farms Senior Living (Shelbyville) Best Assisted Living (Personal Care), Best Memory Care, Cooper Trail Senior Living (Bardstown) Best Assisted Living (Personal Care), Best Memory Care, and Boonesboro Trail Senior Living (Winchester) Best Assisted Living (Personal Care). Ratings offer a look at the best senior living communities across the United States, to assist older adults and their loved ones when researching and choosing the right senior living community for them. For 2023-2024 Best Senior Living, U. S. News rated each community on several criteria, including resident and family members' satisfaction with safety, care, community management and staff, value, and other services and amenities provided by the community. "In every Trilogy campus, our teams are committed to delivering world-class hospitality services and amenities in senior living as well as exceptional care to our residents. We are honored to receive this designation and will continue to go above and beyond for those who call our communities home," Trilogy Health Services President and CEO Leigh Ann Barney said. U.S. News evaluated nearly 4,000 communities in one or more of the following categories: independent living, assisted living, memory care, and continuing care retirement. U.S. News awards the designation of Best Senior Living only to those communities that satisfy U.S. News' statistical assessment of performance on consumer satisfaction surveys administered between April 2022 and November 2022, reflecting the viewpoints of more than 200,000 current residents and family members of residents living in thousands of senior living communities nationwide. Only 43% of the communities that U.S. News evaluated earned a "Best" rating. "For the second consecutive year, U.S. News is providing in-depth information to help potential residents and their loved ones find the best place to help meet their needs," said Sumita Singh, senior vice president and general manager of Healthcare at U.S. News. "Communities that are highly rated excel in making residents feel safe, well cared for and highly satisfied by the services provided." For more information on the U.S. News Best Senior Living, explore Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Search the hashtag #BestSeniorLiving About Trilogy Health Services Trilogy Health Services is an industry-leading operator of nearly 130 senior living communities throughout five states, including Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The company has the honor of providing over 10,000 seniors with world-class clinical support, innovative lifestyle programs, and a culture built on the tenets of servant leadership and hospitality. Trilogy employs over 14,000 team members, is a certified Great Place to Work, one of Glassdoor's Top 100 Best Places to Work, and was named one of FORTUNE's Best Places to Work in Aging Services. To learn more about Trilogy Health Services, visit www.trilogyhs.com. To learn about job openings at Trilogy, visit www.trilogyjobs.com About U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C. SOURCE Trilogy Health Services, LLC A worker at a Tim Hortons in Niagara Falls was beaten by several people while at work Sunday night, a disturbing attack that was captured on video and posted on Facebook. The assault happened at the coffee shop at 3024 Pine Ave., at Hyde Park Boulevard. "Charges are expected soon" in the case, which is being investigated by Niagara Falls police, Niagara Falls officials said in a news release Tuesday night. The cellphone video shows a white SUV arrive at the business and a woman enter, followed by several others. The woman walks up to the counter, starts talking and then walks around the counter into the employee area, the video shows. She walks toward an employee standing near the drive-thru window and repeatedly hits her, with another attacker following and also hitting the victim. At least one other person appears to join in the attack, which lasts for 50 seconds before the video ends. Some onlookers yell as the beating continues. The attack and video was first reported by the Niagara Gazette. A representative of the company that owns the Tim Hortons declined to comment on the victim's condition, citing the ongoing police investigation. "We are disgusted by the actions of these individuals and our prayers and support are with our team member to make a full recovery," Richard Sabin, district manager for CBR Holdings Inc., said in a text message. "Our team's safety is and always will be our No. 1 concern." The shop will be closing its dining room at 2 p.m. daily and the entire store at 8 p.m. for the foreseeable future, Sabin said. CBR Holdings owns seven Tim Hortons locations in the Niagara Falls area. Falls Police Superintendent John Faso, in the release, said he was "appalled" at what was depicted in the video. "We will not tolerate this behavior in our city," Faso said. "Those responsible will be brought to justice in this matter." Celebrate Dairy Across Pennsylvania Throughout June & July With 15 Dairy-Themed Events HARRISBURG, Pa., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With June being National Dairy Month and July being National Ice Cream Month, several Pennsylvania dairy farms and organizations are hosting on-farm events to give families a firsthand look at Pennsylvania agriculture and local dairy products. The "Celebrate Dairy Across PA" initiative features an online listing of 15 dairy-themed events happening across the state in June and July. Many of the events feature outdoor, family-friendly activities at no cost, including farm-fresh ice cream, farm tours, hayrides, calf and cow petting, and more. Visit www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/celebratepadairy to view an interactive map and the 2023 event listing. "There are 5,000 dairy farms in Pennsylvania, and 99 percent of these farms are family owned," said Emily Barge, communications and marketing manager at the Center for Dairy Excellence. "If you're looking for summer fun for the entire family, while supporting local family businesses, we encourage you to attend one of these events and celebrate Pennsylvania dairy. These are fun ways to learn about the hard work and passion that goes into making local products like milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream 365 days a year." The following events, listed in order of occurrence, are featured on the "Celebrate Dairy Across PA" listing: Scooped: PA Ice Cream Trail State-Wide Launches June 1 . The 6th Annual PA Ice Cream Trail launches on June 1 . A group of 40+ creameries across the state are featured on the trail and are scooping up homemade ice cream all summer long. Many of them are located on Pennsylvania dairy farms. The 6th Annual PA Ice Cream Trail launches on . A group of 40+ creameries across the state are featured on the trail and are scooping up homemade ice cream all summer long. Many of them are located on dairy farms. Central Wedge Cheese Shop Grand Opening Cumberland County , 25 W. High Street, Carlisle, PA 17013 Thursday, June 1 from 3-6 p.m. Join Central Wedge Cheese Shop for its grand opening and ribbon cutting on June 1 . They are a cheese shop that sells only Pennsylvania -made cheese, including cow milk cheese and certain varieties of sheep, goat and cashew cheeses. Join Central Wedge Cheese Shop for its grand opening and ribbon cutting on . They are a cheese shop that sells only -made cheese, including cow milk cheese and certain varieties of sheep, goat and cashew cheeses. Fridays on the Farm at Clover Creek Cheese Cellar Blair County , 5161 Clover Creek Rd, Williamsburg, PA 16693 Friday, June 2 and Friday, July 14 from 10 a.m. 12 p.m. Clover Creek Cheese Cellar is offering Friday on the Farm and Cheese Experience events with the Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau. Discover the art of cheese-making by visiting Clover Creek Cheese Cellar, LLC for a two-hour cheese experience. Clover Creek Cheese Cellar is offering Friday on the Farm and Cheese Experience events with the Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau. Discover the art of cheese-making by visiting Clover Creek Cheese Cellar, LLC for a two-hour cheese experience. Moovin' for Milk 5K Run/Walk Wasson's Farm Market, Centre County , 2545 Shingletown Road, State College PA 16801 Saturday, June 3 at 9:30 a.m. The Moovin' for Milk 5K Run/Walk is a fun way to support the Fill A Glass With Hope (FAGWH) Campaign. All proceeds from the event will go directly to FAGWH to help get milk to those in need. During the event, the PA Dairy Princesses will have a refuel with chocolate milk station, various activities such as a "milk to you" puzzle, cornhole games and more. The Moovin' for Milk Run/Walk is a fun way to support the Fill A Glass With Hope (FAGWH) Campaign. All proceeds from the event will go directly to FAGWH to help get milk to those in need. During the event, the PA Dairy Princesses will have a refuel with chocolate milk station, various activities such as a "milk to you" puzzle, cornhole games and more. Summertime Jubilee Vale Wood Farms, Cambria County , 517 Vale Wood Road, Loretto, PA 15940 Sunday, June 4 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Join Vale Wood Farms on June 4 for family fun on the farm with their annual Summertime Jubilee and 90th anniversary celebration. There will be a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the day, including live music, hayride farm tours, ice cream and sundae specials, and more. Join Vale Wood Farms on for family fun on the farm with their annual Summertime Jubilee and 90th anniversary celebration. There will be a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the day, including live music, hayride farm tours, ice cream and sundae specials, and more. Glenn Peffer Milk Giveaway Carlisle Country Market, Cumberland County , 466 Holly Pike, Carlisle, PA 17013 Saturday, June 10 from 8 a.m. 12 p.m. Visit the Carlisle Country Market for the Glenn Peffer Milk Giveaway. A total of 500 gallons of whole, 2% and chocolate milk will be donated by the nonprofit Glenn Peffer organization. During the giveaway, meet a dairy calf from Destiny Dairy Bar and enjoy their delicious ice cream to celebrate June Dairy Month. Visit the Carlisle Country Market for the Glenn Peffer Milk Giveaway. A total of 500 gallons of whole, 2% and chocolate milk will be donated by the nonprofit organization. During the giveaway, meet a dairy calf from Destiny Dairy Bar and enjoy their delicious ice cream to celebrate June Dairy Month. Family Farm Days Oregon Dairy Farm LLC, Lancaster County , 2900 Oregon Pike, Lititz, PA 17543 Tuesday, June 13 through Thursday, June 15 . Visit Oregon Dairy Farm for Family Farm Days and enjoy an educational, firsthand experience at a working Pennsylvania dairy farm, including: free guided tractor and wagon rides to the Farmstead at Oregon Dairy, free samples of milk, free samples of ice cream, kids' activities, educational agricultural exhibits and more. Visit Oregon Dairy Farm for Family Farm Days and enjoy an educational, firsthand experience at a working dairy farm, including: free guided tractor and wagon rides to the Farmstead at Oregon Dairy, free samples of milk, free samples of ice cream, kids' activities, educational agricultural exhibits and more. June Dairy Month Celebration at Sensenig's Feed Mill Lancaster County , 115 South Railroad Ave., New Holland, PA 17557 Wednesday, June 14 from 12-5 p.m . Visit Sensenig's Feed Mill for a June Dairy Month Celebration, including a free whole and chocolate milk giveaway, feed mill tours, milkshakes, and more. . Visit Sensenig's Feed Mill for a June Dairy Month Celebration, including a free whole and chocolate milk giveaway, feed mill tours, milkshakes, and more. Cows in Carlisle Farmer's Market on the Square, Cumberland County , 2 North Hanover Street, Carlisle, PA 17013 Wednesday, June 14 from 3-7 p.m. During the "Cows in Carlisle " event at the Farmer's Market on the Square, visit with a dairy cow, calf and dairy goat from Destiny Dairy Bar. Enjoy local dairy products from local vendors such as Swirly Girl Creamery, Bouncing Goat Soap, and Camelot Valley Fine Artisan Goat Cheese. During the "Cows in " event at the Farmer's Market on the Square, visit with a dairy cow, calf and dairy goat from Destiny Dairy Bar. Enjoy local dairy products from local vendors such as Swirly Girl Creamery, Bouncing Goat Soap, and Camelot Valley Fine Artisan Goat Cheese. A Toast to Dairy Melhorn Manor, Lancaster County , 977 West Main Street, Mount Joy, PA 17552 Thursday, June 15 from 6-9 p.m. This farm-to-fork fundraiser event will feature different food stations sourced with PA Preferred ingredients. Enjoy a wine and beer tasting experience, cheese samples paired with PA snack foods, live music, raffles, and more. This farm-to-fork fundraiser event will feature different food stations sourced with PA Preferred ingredients. Enjoy a wine and beer tasting experience, cheese samples paired with PA snack foods, live music, raffles, and more. June Dairy Month Celebration and Milk Chugging Contest Harmony Acres Dairy, Fayette County , 355 Perryopolis Road, Belle Vernon, PA 15012 Saturday, June 24 at 11 a.m. Join Harmony Acres Dairy in celebrating June Dairy Month. All month long, they will be collecting donations to fight hunger in their community. They will celebrate on Saturday, June 24 th , with a milk chugging contest to see who is the biggest Harmony Acres milk fan, along with local food trucks. Join Harmony Acres Dairy in celebrating June Dairy Month. All month long, they will be collecting donations to fight hunger in their community. They will celebrate on , with a milk chugging contest to see who is the biggest milk fan, along with local food trucks. Kiddie Train Rides on the Farm Destiny Dairy Bar, Cumberland County , 60 Horners Road, Carlisle, PA 17015 Saturdays in June and July at 12:30 p.m. , 1:30 p.m. , and 2:30 p.m. On Saturdays in June and July at Destiny Dairy Bar, enjoy kiddie train rides at 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 with Goat Storytelling (like goat yoga with stories) at 2 p.m. Their store is filled with fresh creamline milk, including fun flavors like root beer, as well as ice cream by the scoop, as a milkshake, or in half pints and half gallons to take home. On Saturdays in June and July at Destiny Dairy Bar, enjoy kiddie train rides at 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 with Goat Storytelling (like goat yoga with stories) at Their store is filled with fresh creamline milk, including fun flavors like root beer, as well as ice cream by the scoop, as a milkshake, or in half pints and half gallons to take home. "All You Can Eat" Ice Cream Social Mercer County 4-H Park, Mercer County , 435 N. Perry Highway, Mercer, PA 16137 Friday, July 14 from 5-9 p.m. To celebrate National Ice Cream Month and raise awareness of the Pennsylvania dairy industry, join the Mercer Northwest Guernsey Breeders Association for an "All You Can Eat" Ice Cream Social. This "all-you-can-eat" ice cream event features homemade ice cream by a local ice cream shop. The 4-H Park also includes a playground for the kids. To celebrate National Ice Cream Month and raise awareness of the dairy industry, join the Mercer Northwest Guernsey Breeders Association for an "All You Can Eat" Ice Cream Social. This "all-you-can-eat" ice cream event features homemade ice cream by a local ice cream shop. The 4-H Park also includes a playground for the kids. Sundae Funday on the Farm Mill Hill Farms, LLC, Blair County , 164 Mill Hill Road, Williamsburg, PA 16693 Sunday, July 16 from 5-8 p.m. Celebrate National Ice Cream Sundae Day at a 10th-generation family dairy farm. Mill Hill Farms, LLC is opening their farm to the surrounding communities and serving free ice cream sundaes and milk. Families can meet the animals and participate in a variety of hands-on, educational experiences. Celebrate National Ice Cream Sundae Day at a 10th-generation family dairy farm. Mill Hill Farms, LLC is opening their farm to the surrounding communities and serving free ice cream sundaes and milk. Families can meet the animals and participate in a variety of hands-on, educational experiences. Ice Cream Sundae at the Bedford County Fair Bedford County Fair, 729 West Pitt Street, Bedford, PA 15522 Monday, July 24 at 6 p.m. The Bedford County Dairy Promotion team will be making a very large ice cream sundae at the Bedford County Fair on Monday evening. The sundae will then be distributed to all of the fair attendees for free until it's gone. To view details about each event, including address, cost, and other important details, visit www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/celebratepadairy. For more information about the campaign, contact Emily Barge at [email protected] or call 717-346-0849. The Center for Dairy Excellence (CDE) provides grants, resources and programming to help dairy farmers remain competitive, successful and financially stable. Campaigns like Choose PA Dairy and Celebrate Dairy Across PA work to increase consumer awareness about the year-round availability of local milk, how to purchase it, and the health benefits of consuming fluid milk. The Center for Dairy Excellence is a non-profit organization initiated by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture in 2004. Bringing together people from more than 40 different dairy organizations in Pennsylvania, the Center's mission is to enhance the profitability of the dairy industry by empowering people, creating partnerships, and increasing the availability and use of resources. Learn more at centerfordairyexcellence.org. Center for Dairy Excellence 2301 North Cameron St., Harrisburg, PA 17110 717-346-0849 www.centerfordairyexcellence.org SOURCE Center For Dairy Excellence A collaborative workshop to catalyze opportunities for local women entrepreneurs LOS ANGELES, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation (VSEDC), the community-based non-profit organization that advocates and provides resources for residents of South Los Angeles and beyond, is excited to partner with the U.S. Commercial Service (CS) of the U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration (ITA). Together with CS, the Los Angeles Mayor's Office, NEW Community Investments, SoCal Gas, Amazon, and UPS, we are co-hosting an event called "Empowering Women-Owned Businesses for Global Expansion". This is a special workshop that fosters awareness of ITA's Global Diversity Export Initiative (GDEI) and provides resources and networking for underrepresented women- and women of color-owned export businesses in the Los Angeles area. CEO Quentin Strode says, "We are excited to work with the U.S. Department of Commerce, LA Mayor's Office and other esteemed partners in support of our local women-owned businesses. As an organization that was started by a woman with her vision of building stronger neighborhoods in Los Angeles, this partnership will open more doors for our marginalized woman business owners to showcase their products and services internationally, which in turn, will further strengthen Los Angeles as a vibrant world-class city as VSEDC is strategically located in the heart of LA." Terri Batch, Director of GDEI adds, "We are pleased to bring this exclusive event to Los Angeles based women-owned small businesses that are in the export business or are interesting in beginning the export process. We appreciate strong partners like VSEDC that augment our reach so that we can help more underserved women exporters in LA." In addition to offering resources and capital access referral, this event will also provide a strong platform for extensive international networking with the ITA leadership such as Kendee Yamaguchi/Deputy Assistant Secretary, U.S. Field, U.S. Commercial Service and Camille Richardson/Deputy Assistant Secretary, Middle East & Africa, U.S. Commercial Service. Registration is required to attend this event. For details, go to Eventbrite/Women Empowerment (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/empowering-women-owned-businesses-tickets-641580563737). There is a nominal fee of $20 per ticket to attend. About Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation (VSEDC) is a community-based nonprofit and Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) recognized for decades of technical and entrepreneurial assistance to South LA small businesses, start-ups and entrepreneurs. The service VSEDC provides serves to drive community self-sufficiency, facilitate business growth, access to affordable housing, goods and services, and job creation. VSEDC achieves this through youth education and entrepreneurial projects, CDFI programs, and fundraising efforts. Find out more about VSEDC at www.vsedc.org, Facebook and Twitter. About Global Diversity Export Initiative of the U.S. Commercial Service within the U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration. The Global Diversity Export Initiative is an outreach program of the U.S. Department of Commerce/International Trade Administration/U.S. Commercial Service that focuses on reaching businesses in underserved areas with resources for expanding internationally. More information about GDEI can be found at www.trade.gov/global-diversity-export-initiative. SOURCE Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation TORONTO, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Westbridge Renewable Energy Corporation (TSXV: WEB) (OTCQX: WEGYF) (FRA: PUQ) ("Westbridge", "Westbridge Renewable" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has secured financing to fund its Alberta Electric System Operator ("AESO") contribution requirement for its pipeline of projects in Alberta under development by its subsidiaries: Georgetown Solar Inc., Sunnynook Solar Energy Inc., Dolcy Solar Inc., Eastervale Solar Inc., and Red Willow Solar Inc. (the "Projects") and to fund development of the Projects and further origination of solar energy and battery energy storage system projects. Pursuant to a loan agreement (the "Loan Agreement") dated May 30, 2023, between Westbridge Renewable Energy Holdco Corp. (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company), as borrower (the "Holdco Borrower"), and LRC Westbridge II Investco, LLC (a lending entity established by Leyline Renewable Capital, LLC), as lender, the Holdco Borrower may borrow up to a maximum of the U.S. dollar equivalent of CAD$30,450,000 (the "Loan"). The Loan can be used to post Generating Unit Owners Contribution ("GUOC") security payments for the Projects. In addition, the Company and LRC Westbridge III, Investco, LLC (a lending entity established by Leyline Renewable Capital, LLC) have also entered in a separate loan agreement on May 30, 2023, to borrow up to a maximum of the US$4,900,000 (the "Development Loan") that can be used to progress the development of the Projects and support the origination and expansion of its pipeline. Westbridge Renewable CEO Stefano Romanin commented, "We are thrilled to expand our successful partnership with Leyline Renewable Capital, a trusted and leading provider of debt for renewable energy development. Securing these loans bolsters our financial foundation to support our portfolio of Alberta projects. The Leyline team brings deep experience and expertise in renewable investing, and we are confident that this collaboration will drive our mission of sustainable energy forward. This transaction not only strengthens our cooperation with Leyline but also propels us towards a brighter and greener future". Leyline Senior Managing Director Joshua Schaff commented, "We are delighted to expand our relationship with Westbridge, a dedicated, nimble, and sophisticated developer that is making a real difference in the renewable energy sector." The Loan is secured by a first priority security interest against the Projects, the Loan and Development Loan (together, the "Loan Agreements") matures 18 months from the date of the Loan Agreements. The Development Loan will have a second ranking security over the Projects. About Westbridge Renewable Energy Westbridge Renewable Energy Corp. develops best-in-class, utility-scale solar PV projects. The Company has a portfolio of projects in three key jurisdictions, Canada, the U.S., and the UK. Westbridge plans to deliver attractive, long-term returns by originating, executing, and developing an international portfolio of renewable assets for investors and utilities. Management has a strong track-record with 40+ projects developed worldwide, obtaining, and executing permits on time and within budget. As one of the very few listed pure-play Canadian solar development companies, Westbridge provides its ESG minded investors with valuable access to greenfield solar projects. This means the Company can invest at the earliest stage of solar energy development benefiting from the full value chain as well as the expected wider adoption of renewable energy going forward. Westbridge brings together regulators, corporate buyers, and landowners with the goal of delivering clean, sustainable electricity to end users. About Leyline Renewable Capital Leyline Renewable Capital invests in the development of utility scale renewable energy projects. Backed by a team of seasoned investors with deep experience in the renewable industry, Leyline provides financing that supports early-stage development through construction. By investing in the early stages of renewable energy projects, Leyline accelerates the development process and helps developers scale quickly without taking dilution. Leyline leverages a broad base of experience in greenfield project development, design, construction, and finance with an extensive network of relationships with industry leaders to provide support and capital for projects from concept to commercial operation. For more information, please visit www.leylinecapital.com. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Scott M. Kelly Nisha Hasan Executive Chair & Director Momentum IR Corp. [email protected] [email protected] +1 416 998-4714 +1 416 888-4219 www.westbridge.energy 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 Statements Certain information set forth in this document contains forward-looking information and statements including, without limitation, management's business strategy, management's assessment of future plans and operations. Such forward-looking statements or information are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future . Forward-looking statements or information typically contain statements with words such as "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "plan", "intend", "estimate", "propose", "project", "potential" or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding future performance and outlook. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of such information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. This news release contains forward-looking statements about advancing the Projects, originating additional projects and posting the Generating Unit Owner's Contribution and the ability of the Company to achieve the aforementioned and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them as actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, general business, economic, competitive, regulatory and permitting risks, policy and social uncertainties, changes in laws, market risks, operating history, competition and additional financing upon terms acceptable to the Company or at all, and the other risks identified under the headings "Risk Factors" in the Company's management's discussion and analysis dated March 30, 2023 and other disclosure documents available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com . The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, except as required by law. SOURCE Westbridge Renewable Energy Corp. RightSourceSM is Charles River's insourced, purpose-built lab offering that provides industry-leading expertise conveniently placed within a Wheeler Bio's new cGMP drug substance facility. OKLAHOMA CITY, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wheeler Bio, Inc., a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), and Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. (NYSE: CRL) today announced an agreement to implement RightSourceSM at Wheeler Bio's current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) biologics manufacturing facility in Oklahoma City, OK. Deployed on-site at a client's facility, RightSourceSM is a flexible biologics testing lab operated and managed by Charles River, making fast, reliable quality control (QC) more accessible to a broader reach of companies like Wheeler Bio. "We are thrilled to welcome Charles River's RightSourceSM onsite at our state-of-the-art drug substance manufacturing facility in downtown Oklahoma City," said Jesse McCool, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Wheeler Bio. "On-site support by the industry's leading testing provider adds considerable value to our growing base of clients advancing important therapeutic antibodies and other biologics into human trials for the first time." Wheeler Bio and Charles River will work in close collaboration to set up a cGMP testing lab at Wheeler Bio's ultra-modern Oklahoma City facility . This platform-based satellite lab will be operated by Charles River employees who will utilize Charles River's quality management systems, test methods, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to support all QC testing needs for Wheeler Bio. Wheeler Bio provides its clients with access to an innovative manufacturing platform called Portable CMC , which is coupled with Leap-In Transposase (ATUM) and a layer of digital solutions to accelerate timelines from discovery to IND. Portable CMC is an open-source, predictive, "CMC middleware" that efficiently bridges discovery and early development milestones. Wheeler Bio's hub-and-spoke operating model connects coastal innovators with translational CMC services that are thoughtfully aligned with clients' business needs and fundraising strategies. "The RightSourceSM business model significantly reduces upfront lab set up costs, shields the client from the regulatory burden of managing a QC lab, and allows for leveraging our robust scientific expertisedirectly where clients need it most," said Ian Wyllie, Director Operations, RightSourceSM, Charles River. The RightSourceSM Laboratory at Wheeler Bio will be operational in Q3 2023 and is anticipated to start in-process and release testing by Q4 2023. About Wheeler Bio Wheeler Bio is a biomanufacturing pioneer, founded by a team of industry experts and strategic investors who believe a different CDMO model is needed to help innovators reach their clinical milestones faster. Wheeler's novel hub-and-spoke operational model, centered in the biomanufacturing metro of Oklahoma City, and integrated with biotechs and discovery CROs, will revolutionize the speed of drug development. Wheeler Bio's technology platform, Portable CMC, simplifies the path between drug discovery and clinical manufacturing by providing a new bridge for translating discoveries to IND filing. Innovators benefit from increased momentum during technology transfer, shorter timelines, reduced risk, and lower costs. Additional information can be obtained by visiting www.wheelerbio.com , or by following Wheeler Bio on LinkedIn . About Charles River Charles River provides essential products and services to help pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, government agencies and leading academic institutions around the globe accelerate their research and drug development efforts. Our dedicated employees are focused on providing clients with exactly what they need to improve and expedite the discovery, early-stage development, and safe manufacture of new therapies for the patients who need them. To learn more about our unique portfolio and breadth of services, visit www.criver.com . For Further Information: Wheeler Bio, Inc. Contact: Jesse McCool (405) 279-6767 [email protected] SOURCE Wheeler Bio Biotech partner recognizes strength of Willow's first in class FutureGrown technology platform for producing natural products Further expansion and diversification of Willow's product portfolio with collaboration revenue expected in 2023 and potential for near-term commercial product revenue MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Willow Biosciences Inc. ("Willow") (TSX: WLLW) (OTCQB: CANSF), a leading biotechnology company focused on revolutionizing industrial manufacturing of pure, consistent and sustainable functional ingredients announces execution of a Master Services Agreement (the "MSA") with an innovative biotech company focused on age-related diseases. Through this partnership, Willow will develop precision fermentation processes for a class of molecules with targets being developed as nutritional supplements for health and wellness and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Willow will use its FutureGrown technology platform and yeast-strain engineering expertise with the goal of developing a strain and process for production of the partner's ingredients. After a successful first phase, both parties anticipate the next steps will be a full process optimization program and entering into a commercial agreement for scaling up the targeted ingredients for use in consumer end-market products. Due to the disruptive potential nature of its targeted product applications, the partner's name and target molecules are not being disclosed at this time. "We are delighted that our partner recognizes our expert strain engineering capabilities can help accelerate and support their product innovation needs to develop novel solutions for age-related diseases," said Dr. Chris Savile, Willow's President and CEO. "Furthermore, their dual commercialization strategy supports the generation of nearer term product revenue from the nutritional supplement segment along with the longer-term upside from the pharmaceutical sector. With this agreement and other positive developments we've announced in recent weeks, we continue to believe 2023 will be a solid year of growth and progress for Willow with the anticipation of our being able to post fundamentally improved financial results for the year." About Willow Biosciences Inc. Willow develops and produces precision fermented functional ingredients for the health and wellness, food and beverage and personal care markets. Willow's FutureGrown biotechnology platform allows large-scale production with sustainability at its core. Willow's R&D team has a proven track record of developing and commercializing bio-based manufacturing processes and products to benefit our B2B partners and their customers. For more information, visit www.willowbio.com. Forward-Looking Statements This news release may include forward-looking statements including opinions, assumptions, estimates and the Company's assessment of future plans and operations, and, more particularly, statements concerning: the MSA, including the ability to accommodate new programs and to expand capabilities;; the demand and market size potential of the synthetic ingredients industry; and the business plan of the Company, generally, including becoming a leader in precision fermentation, research and production of functional ingredients. When used in this news release, the words "will," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intent," "may," "project," "should," and similar expressions are intended to be among the statements that identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are founded on the basis of expectations and assumptions made by the Company which include, but are not limited to: the success of Willow's strategic partnerships, including the development of future strategic partnerships; the financial strength of the Company; the ability of the Company to fund its business plan using cash on hand and existing resources; the market for Willow's products; the ability of the Company to obtain and retain applicable licences; the ability of the Company to obtain suitable manufacturing partners and other strategic relationships; and the successful implementation of Willow's commercialization and production strategy, generally. Forward-looking statements are subject to a wide range of risks and uncertainties, and although the Company believes that the expectations represented by such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will be realized. Any number of important factors could cause actual results biotechnology industry in general; the success of the Company's research and development strategies; infringement on intellectual property; failure to benefit from partnerships or successfully integrate acquisitions; actions and initiatives of federal and provincial governments and changes to government policies and the execution and impact of these actions, initiatives and policies; competition from other industry participants; adverse U.S., Canadian and global economic conditions; adverse global events and public-health crises,; failure to comply with certain regulations; departure of key management personnel or inability to attract and retain talent; and other factors more fully described from time to time in the reports and filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities. Please refer to the Company's most recent annual information form and management's discussion and analysis for additional risk factors relating to Willow, which can be accessed either on Willow's website at www.willowbio.com or under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law. The forward-looking statements contained herein are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. SOURCE Willow Biosciences Inc. CHICAGO, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Winston & Strawn LLP continues to offer the Winston & Strawn Law School Experience, a free, virtual course created to help incoming law students enhance their academic performance in law school. The program features instructional videos on topics such as: Succeeding on law school exams; Reading and analyzing case law; and Writing a useful, thorough law school course outline. The program is self-paced and takes approximately six to seven hours to finish. Upon completion, students earn a certificate that can be added to LinkedIn profiles and resumes. The Winston & Strawn Law School Experience equips incoming first-year law students with a methodology for developing the aptitudes that law schools expect and require. Its skills-building approach also aims to correct for the fact that many first-generation and diverse law students confront inequitable access to resources (including tutoring, mentoring, and networking) that are key building blocks for success in law school and the legal profession. Over 470-students have enrolled in the program since its inception in 2022. Of those registrants, 48% identified as first-generation, incoming law students. After taking the course, some two-thirds of students felt they had a better understanding of what success in law school would require; only one-third felt that way before completing the program. "Law schools are fantastic at teaching students the law. But Winston & Strawn Law School Experience helps show incoming students how to succeed in law school. The program is comparable to every other law school prep course out there in that it is designed to provide practical skills. The key difference, however, is that our offering is free, substantive, and self-paced. And it's fully accessible to all students regardless of finances, background, or other personal factors," said Bill O'Neil, a litigation partner in Chicago, chair of Winston's Hiring Committee, and the primary driver behind this initiative. "In providing this course, we are offering all incoming law students, including those whose lives have presented obstacles, an equal opportunity to learn and excel," said Winston Chairman Tom Fitzgerald. "We encourage students to take advantage of this resource, and we look forward to engaging participants from all backgrounds as they pursue their legal education and their promising careers." Winston & Strawn LLP is an international law firm with 16 offices located throughout North America, South America, Asia, and Europe. More information about the firm is available at www.winston.com. Contacts: Michael Goodwin [email protected] 646-502-3595 Sneha Satish [email protected] 646-502-3556 SOURCE Winston & Strawn LLP KIGONGO, Tanzania and ALEXANDRIA, Egypt, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- XCMG Machinery ("XCMG", SHE:000425) is working on an extensive number of infrastructure projects worldwide, with substantial operations established across eight major regions, while aiding regional economic development with "Advanced and Endurable" products, solutions, and services. Recently, XCMG shipped 3 units of tower cranes for the construction of Tanzania's Kigongo-Busisi Bridge (JP Magufuli Bridge) on Lake Victoria, which upon completion will be the longest bridge in East Africa, as well as the longest cable-stayed extradosed bridge in Africa. The project, consisting of a 3,200-meter-long grand bridge and 1,660-meter-long approach bridge, will be a crucial link between the Mwanza Region and neighboring countries of Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda, and will boost economic development in the lake region. XCMG's tower cranes adopt marine coating, with product quality benchmarking the European standards, delivering reliable, high-precision performance that will adapt to various working conditions and cope with challenges of geological changes, public emergencies, and equipment limitations. Additionally, the tower crane overseas service team is on call 24 hours to provide support and customized services, which includes training and maintenance. "XCMG tower cranes have worked in many major bridge construction projects worldwide, supporting infrastructure construction that also promotes economic development, and we endeavor to deliver the best products and services to our customers," said Jiansen Liu, VP of XCMG. On April 10, XCMG's XDN3200-R push bench successfully completed a 480-meter pipe jacking of the first section of a water conservancy construction project in Alexandria, Egypt in 85 days. The water conservancy project crosses highways, railways, rivers, and natural gas pipelines, overcoming the challenges of shallow soil cover, backfilled rock, sand, and clay strata in some areas, and close proximity to the coastline. XCMG's customized XDN3200-R push bench stood out for its optimized cutter arrangement, high working efficiency, and high-quality performance that tackles a series of construction bottlenecks. The model can target different strata layers with six mud circulation modes that improve the overall slagging efficiency, and it also enables remote monitoring and data storage to provide parameter support. In the meantime, XCMG also provided all-around technical and service support, with engineers on call to assist around the clock. "XCMG is committed to creating innovative, high-quality products that will satisfy the needs of our customers worldwide, and pushing forward digital, green, and dynamic development in the era of transformation," said Liu. SOURCE XCMG Machinery The Integration Enables Developers to Create Immersive Healthcare Experiences in AR/VR/MR With Lenovo's ThinkReality VRX that Supports Snapdragon Spaces XR Development Platform BOSTON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- XRHealth, a Boston-based developer and operator of virtual treatment rooms, announces today their adoption of Snapdragon Spaces XR Developer Platform for the Lenovo ThinkReality VRX. The integration will enable XRHealth developers to create immersive experiences in AR/VR/MR for the healthcare industry. Lenovo's ThinkReality VRX is one of the first headsets launched with Snapdragon Spaces to empower developers to expand the XR ecosystem. Lenovo ThinkReality VRX will now be preloaded with XRHealth therapeutic solutions. "Snapdragon Spaces is created to provide application developers the software tools to build immersive XR solutions and innovate using immersive technology," said Martin Herdina, Senior Director, Product Management, XR. "XR Health brings impressive technology to the table in their virtual healthcare and therapy solution, and Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. is excited to work with them as part of its rapidly growing XR enterprise ecosystem." Lenovo and Qualcomm Technologies have long worked together to expand the enterprise metaverse and virtual workspaces. With XRHealth's adoption of Snapdragon Spaces, developers will be able to create immersive VR healthcare experiences on devices powered by Snapdragon, offering developers the option to develop VR, AR, or MR experiences on the leading headsets for training and collaboration in 3D. Lenovo's ThinkReality VRX headset that will support both Snapdragon Spaces and XRHealth will be available in Q3 of 2023. "We are excited to integrate our solution on Snapdragon Spaces and Lenovo ThinkReality VRX to enable developers to build innovative experiences that will revolutionize therapeutic care," says Eran Orr, CEO of XRHealth. "We are honored to join Qualcomm Technologies' first cohort of companies developing on VRX using Snapdragon Spaces technology." This announcement comes at the heels of XRHealth announcing a merger with Amelia Virtual Care which has created a XR therapeutic powerhouse, addressing both physical and mental health issues. XRHealth will demonstrate the headset at AWE in Santa Clara, CA during May 31-June 2 at Lenovo's booth #219 and Qualcomm's booth #205 at Hall A. About XRHealth XRHealth operates state-of-the-art therapeutic care Virtual Rooms, utilizing proprietary FDA and CE-registered medical Extended Reality (XR) technology (virtual and augmented reality). XRHealth integrates immersive XR technology, licensed clinicians, and advanced data analytics on one platform, providing a comprehensive therapeutic care solution for patients to receive treatment from the comfort of their home. The company offers a variety of patent-pending solutions from rehabilitation services to cognitive assessment and training to pain management. XRHealth works with several world-renowned U.S. healthcare providers, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. Founded in 2016, XRHealth is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts and its R&D center is located in Tel-Aviv, Israel. https://www.xr.health/ . Snapdragon and Snapdragon Spaces are trademarks or registered trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Media Contact: DeeDee Rudenstein, [email protected] SOURCE XRHealth XIAMEN, China, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Yealink, a leading provider of collaboration and communication solutions, has announced the migration of its Yealink Management Cloud Service (YMCS) to Microsoft Azure, a premier cloud computing platform known for its unparalleled capabilities. The move to Azure is a major milestone for YMCS. Yealink, with security in mind, migrates its Yealink Management Cloud Service to Microsoft Azure, building a reliable system on a trusted platform. "As a customer-focused company, we are always looking for ways to improve our solutions and provide the best possible experience for our users. Microsoft Azure is renowned for its robust security features, " said Alvin Liao, the Vice President, Head of Products at Yealink. " This partnership can support Yealink to provide customers with a more secure and scalable solution that meets their evolving needs." What is YMCS? Yealink Device Management Cloud Service (YMCS) is a cloud-based solution for managing Yealink voice, video, and headset devices. It streamlines remote management by addressing provisioning, troubleshooting, and system administration and also meets specific requirements based on regions, user groups, or device models. Automatic deployment upon network connection eliminates the need for costly traditional deployment, while timely troubleshooting boosts productivity. Designed with security in mind, YMCS has earned SOC2 Type 2 and GDPR compliance certifications and passed penetration tests by the top independent testing lab like NETSPI. How Azure Enhances Security for YMCS? "By using Microsoft Azure for the Yealink Cloud Management Service, Yealink builds on a highly secure and scalable cloud platform that provides advanced security features and a wide range of services to enhance customer experiences," said Albert Kooiman, Senior Director, Microsoft Teams Devices Partner Engineering and Certification at Microsoft. YMCS Networking: Securely Built and Managed in Azure Cloud Infrastructure YMCS networking is built and managed in the Azure cloud-based network infrastructure, which secures connections with an IPsec VPN or Azure ExpressRoute and provides an isolated and highly secure environment for YMCS. And Azure Load Balancer is used to control YMCS's inbound and outbound network traffic, helping protect private networks using built-in network address translation. Secure Computing Solutions with Azure Virtual Machines and Azure Kubernetes Service YMCS deploys the computing solution using Azure Virtual Machines to help encrypt sensitive data, protect VMs from malicious threats, secure network traffic, and maintain container security through advanced identity and access management. YMCS also employs Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) to provide flexible scaling, achieve high service availability, and prevent single points of failure. To monitor and maintain container security for governance at scale, AKS supports advanced identity and access management as well. Secure Data Storage in Azure Blob Storage with Local Data Centers YMCS is hosted in Azure Blob Storage. And in accordance with local legal and regulatory requirements, all the data is securely stored in Virginia, USA, and Paris, France. And they are extremely secure via role-based access control (RBAC), as well as encryption at rest and advanced threat protection. Comprehensive Cloud-First Deployment with Microsoft Credentials and Advanced Security Measures for Secure Sign-in and Access in YMCS Portal Because of the YMCS portal's comprehensive cloud-first deployment, users can also sign in from the YMCS site using Microsoft Azure Active Directory, delivering single sign-on technology (SSO), multifactor authentication, and conditional access to protect against cybersecurity attacks and provide users with a convenient and compliant solution. Looking to The Future With these features, Yealink's cloud service is more secure than ever. Moreover, migrating to Azure provides Yealink and its customers with a solid solution. "As Yealink continues to innovate and evolve YMCS platform, Microsoft Azure will be there to support us. Taking advantage of the flexibility and enterprise-grade reliability that Azure provides, Yealink can easily adapt to changing business needs and customer demands," said Alvin Liao. The collaboration of YMCS and Microsoft Azure is a significant step forward for the platform and organizations looking to collaborate more effectively and securely. Yealink and Microsoft are working in tandem to help our customers truly embrace the power of 'Easy Collaboration, High Productivity". Learn more about Yealink Device Management Cloud Service or get started today by visiting: https://www.yealink.com/en/product-detail/management-cloud-service Or find out more about Yealink's commitment to security: https://www.yealink.com/en/onepage/trust-center-security-compliance SOURCE Yealink SEOUL, South Korea, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Yuhan Corporation (CEO, Wook-Je Cho) announced on the 30th of May that it has signed an in-license agreement with J INTS BIO (CEO, Anna Jo) for a Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) targeting HER2, 'JIN-A04'. The total contract size is 325 million dollars, and it includes an upfront payment of 1.9 million dollars and milestone payments according to future development, permits, and sales. From left: Wook-Je Cho, CEO of Yuhan Corporation, and Anna Jo, CEO of J INTS BIO. JIN-A04 is an oral TKI targeting non-small cell lung cancer carrying HER2 mutations, and there is currently no approved oral drug approved to date. Preclinical data of JIN-A04 was recently presented at the 2023 edition of the American Cancer Research Association (AACR) annual meeting in April at Orlando, USA showing strong efficacy in both In-vitro and In-vivo studies. Yuhan Corporation CEO, Wook-Je Cho said, "We have taken a step forward in the development of the 2nd and 3rd LECLAZA by securing an additional anti-cancer drug pipeline with this contract. We plan to further strengthen our anticancer drug pipeline in the future." Anna Jo, CEO of J INTS BIO, said, "JIN-A04 is expected to be a hope for NSCLC patients with 'HER2 Exon20 insertion' mutations." And it can become the most promising Best-in-Class TKI therapy in this field." Meanwhile, Yuhan invested 1.5 million dollars in J INTS BIO in 2021 and 2022, respectively, and holds a 14.8% stake in the company. SOURCE J INTS BIO A Mexican national who was extradited to the United States was arraigned Tuesday in U.S. District Court on cocaine trafficking and money laundering charges, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Prosecutors said Gilberto Alarcon-Holguin, 55, was arrested by Mexican authorities in Mexico in December 2022 and extradited on May 26. An indictment against Alarcon-Holguin alleges that, between October 2017 and December 2018, he conspired with others to sell cocaine and then launder the illicit proceeds from the drug sales. Law enforcement officers investigating the case seized about $2.6 million, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. He is charged with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and conspiracy to launder the proceeds. Following his arraignment, Alarcon-Holguin, who also is known as Beto, was ordered held pending a detention hearing set for June 6 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, the indictment is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, New York State Police, the Erie County Sheriff's Office, and the Air and Marine Unit of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The 19-year-old suspect in the hit-and-run of a Town of Tonawanda police officer Monday night that left the officer badly injured and hospitalized was allegedly driving a stolen Kia. According to prosecutors, it is far from the first time the Dareious Akbar of Buffalo has been accused of a crime. When he was arrested Tuesday, Akbar was awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty earlier this spring in another vehicle theft in this case a 2021 Kia Soul that was stolen from Tonawanda. On Oct. 22, Buffalo police observed him speeding on Seneca Street and then swerving into the wrong side of traffic before abandoning the vehicle and then being taken into custody while on foot. 19-year-old arrested after Town of Tonawanda officer is dragged during traffic stop For the second time in four months, an area police officer has been seriously injured in a hit-and-run crash by a driver of an allegedly stolen vehicle. Two other criminal cases against him are pending, Erie County District Attorney John Flynn said in a statement. He is also facing charges in Amherst related to the theft of a 2019 Dodge Ram reported stolen from Hamburg. Neighbors also reported items stolen from their parked vehicles. Akbar was arrested on May 23 and charged with using the victims' debit and credit cards to make unauthorized purchased in Amherst. And on the afternoon of April 16, Lackawanna police said he pointed what appeared to be a black handgun at a person, but the weapon turned out to be a BB gun. While he was allowed to remain free after the three previous incidents, Akbar was denied bail and was being held Wednesday in the Erie County Holding Center. Akbar was arraigned Tuesday evening before Tonawanda Town Justice J. Mark Gruber on one count each of second-degree attempted murder; aggravated assault upon a police officer; first-degree assault; and third-degree criminal possession of stolen property. His next court appearance is scheduled for 11 a.m. June 5. In the most recent case against Akbar, prosecutors say that about 8 p.m. Monday, Town of Tonawanda police officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle that drove through a red light at Sheridan Drive and Sheridan-Parkside Drive. That vehicle, a 2019 Kia Sportage, turned out to have been reported stolen earlier Monday from East Aurora. Authorities say that Akbar was behind the wheel when he "allegedly drove off and dragged one of the police officers." Akbar was arrested the next day. Officer David Piatek remained hospitalized at Erie County Medical Center Wednesday with serious injuries. Auto thefts have been on the rise in the region since late last year, but especially over the first four months of 2023, according to data provided by several local police departments. Police have said much of the surge is due to thefts of Kia and Hyundai vehicles thanks to a national social media trend of videos showing how to start and steal them. Auto thefts in Buffalo continue to surge, with Kias and Hyundais targeted most According to police figures, Buffalo has seen an astounding rise in thefts of Kia and Hyundai vehicles. It was the second time in four months that an area police officer has been seriously injured by the driver of an allegedly stolen vehicle. Akbar already was facing up to four years in prison on the Buffalo case after pleading guilty to fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property. He is scheduled for sentencing in that case at 2 p.m. July 6 before Erie County Court Judge Kenneth Case. He released on his own recognizance until the sentencing. In the Amherst case, he was charged with one count of third-degree criminal possession of stolen property and four counts of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property. He was released on his own recognizance because the charges do not qualify for bail. In the Lackawanna case, he was charged with second-degree menacing. He was given an appearance ticket and was scheduled to return to Lackawanna court on June 6. Records show he was arrested at least two other times by Buffalo police. In September, he was one of three people arrested after a victim called 911 to report that their 2019 Kia Optima was stolen and they found it parked in a lot. Officers arrested the three people allegedly found inside, including Akbar. Police found screw drivers in the vehicle and that it had a broken ignition. In December, Akbar was arrested again following the theft of a 2021 Hyundai Elantra. The vehicle owner told police that the suspects drove up in a vehicle and jumped into his car and sped off on Salem Street. Police arrested two people, including Akbar at which point police saw that there was an active bench warrant for his arrest for allegedly failing to appear in court on the September case. 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 WILMINGTON, Del. President Joe Biden marked Tuesday's eighth anniversary of one of the saddest events of his life, the death of his son Beau, by attending a memorial Mass and visiting his gravesite. Biden, wife Jill and other family members prayed for Beau Biden during the Mass at St. Joseph on the Brandywine, the Roman Catholic church where the president worships during weekends at his home near Wilmington, Delaware. Afterward, the family visited Beau Biden's gravesite in the church cemetery. The first lady carried a bouquet of flowers. The president later traveled to Veterans Memorial Park in New Castle for his annual tradition of paying his respects and laying flowers. Beau Biden was 46 when he died of brain cancer in 2015. His father was vice president. The eldest of Biden's three children, Beau Biden served two terms as Delaware attorney general before declaring a run for governor. Many saw in him the same aspirations that brought his father to the White House. In fact, Joe Biden often says his son is the one who should have been president not him. Beau Biden also served in Delaware's Army National Guard, including a deployment to Iraq, where the president says he was exposed to toxic gases from pits where the military burned waste. Biden linked his son's cancer to his exposure to burn pits. Beau Biden is the son of Joe Biden and his late first wife, Neilia, who was killed in a 1972 car crash that gravely injured Beau and younger brother Hunter and killed their baby sister. Beau Biden's daughter, Natalie, graduated from high school Sunday, with her grandparents in the audience. She will attend her father's alma mater, the University of Pennsylvania, in the fall. While Tuesday's remembrance of Beau Biden was private, the president publicly mourned his son Monday during a Memorial Day address at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, just outside Washington. For Biden, his son's death and the annual holiday honoring Americans who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving the United States in uniform are inextricably linked. He told the audience that Tuesday "marks eight years since we lost our son Beau." "As it is for so many of you, the pain of his loss is with us every day, but particularly sharp on Memorial Day. It's still clear," Biden said Monday. "Tomorrow is his anniversary. But so is the pride Jill and I feel in his service, as if I can still hear him saying, 'Dad, it's my duty, Dad. It's my duty.' Duty." Best cities for military retirees Best cities for military retirees Highlights from the top 10 cities for military retirees Data and methodology Khartoum, May 30 : The Sudanese Army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have agreed to a five-day extension of a ceasefire agreement the two warring sides signed on May 20, as relevant parties, including the African Union (AU), are hammering out a road map to ending the protracted conflict. While the two sides affirmed commitment to allowing the safe passage of civilians from conflict areas and protecting civilian supplies, the truce has been constantly breached during the cease-fire period, impeding humanitarian access and restoration of genuine stability, reports Xinhua news agency. The Agreement on a Short-Term Cease-fire and Humanitarian Arrangements was reached through negotiations that started on May 6 in Jeddah under a Saudi-US initiative with the aim of ending the conflict in Sudan and facilitating access of humanitarian aid to civilians. The seven-day truce, which entered into force on May 22, was scheduled to expire at 9.45 p.m. on Monday. Not long after the agreement took effect, sporadic clashes were reported between the army and the RSF. In a statement last week, Saudi Arabia and the US said that the cease-fire monitoring mechanism detected serious breaches of the agreement. As relevant parties were working on the extension on Monday, violent clashes broke out in Sudan's capital Khartoum. According to eyewitnesses, the clashes took place in Omdurman and Bahri (Khartoum North) cities, where the Sudanese Army launched airstrikes on RSF sites in the two cities, while the RSF responded with anti-aircraft missiles. Saudi Arabia and the US said in a statement after the extension was agreed upon that even though the ceasefire was "imperfectly observed", an extension still can provide time for further humanitarian assistance, restoration of essential services, and discussion of a potential longer-term extension. To help restore peace in the country, the AU adopted the Roadmap for the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan. The roadmap was adopted during the AU Peace and Security Council meeting that was held at the heads of state and government level on May 27, focusing on the situation in Sudan, the regional bloc said in a communique. The roadmap outlined six elements that include the establishment of a coordination mechanism to ensure all efforts by the regional and global actors are harmonized and impactful; an immediate, permanent, inclusive and comprehensive cessation of hostilities; and an effective humanitarian response. The high-level meeting underscored the overriding importance of a single, inclusive and consolidated peace process for Sudan, coordinated under the joint auspices of the AU, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the League of Arab States and the UN, along with like-minded partners. "The council, with deep concern, strongly condemns the ongoing senseless and unjustified conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, which has resulted in an unprecedented dire humanitarian situation, indiscriminate killing of innocent civilians," the statement said. The deadly armed clashes which erupted on April 15 have inflicted heavy loss upon the country. According to the latest report of the Sudanese Doctors Syndicate, the death toll has climbed to 866, with 3,721 injuries. The UN said in a statement on Monday that the Sudan conflict is already driving displacement and hunger. "More than one million citizens and refugees are expected to flee the country, while an additional 2.5 million inside its borders are set to face acute hunger in the coming months," said the statement, requiring "urgent" action from the international community. According to media reports, more than 350,000 people have already fled into neighbouring countries, with most heading to Egypt, Chad, South Sudan and Ethiopia. Egypt has received so far 150,000 Sudanese citizens fleeing the ongoing conflict. Lucknow, May 30 : Thunderstorms and rain over the weekend in and around Lucknow may have brought relief from heatwave but it has adversely impacted the mango farmers of the state. According to the cultivators, they have incurred a loss of roughly 20 per cent due to the unprecedented thunderstorm and rain spell at a time when mango produce was predicted to be three times better than the previous year. Mango growers said that the mango yield was to be exported in the first week of June itself. Insram Ali, president of the All-India Mango Growers' Association, said, "Last minute rain is usually good for mango cultivation but this time, due to the thunderstorm, around 15-20 per cent mango produce has been adversely affected in the entire state, particularly in the Malihabad and the Kakori region." Ali had earlier said that the produce this year is three times better than previous year weighing approximately 30-35 lakh metric tonnes. "Earlier, hailstorms in the months of March and April had damaged about 20-25 per cent of the crop but it was compensated by the extreme warm weather, which is good for mango ripening. However, at the last moment, a thunderstorm pulled down ripe mangoes and destroyed many of them," he said. Naeem Siddiqui, another mango grower, said that most of the farmers have complained about the loss which is expected to be around 20 per cent. According to ICAR-Central Institute of Subtropical Horticulture (CISH), loss in yield in the state is expected to be around 10 per cent. PK Shukla, principal scientist and HOD of Crop protection, CISH, said, "We have received information from the majority of the belt and the loss is expected to be around 10 per cent." Insram Ali, meanwhile, has urged the government to provide some compensation to the affected cultivators for whom their farms/orchards is the only source of livelihood. Chennai, May 30 : The Greater Chennai Police arrested two people for forcing four foreign women into prostitution at a private lodge in the city. The arrested accused have been identified as M. Kannan(31) of Salem and P. Saravanaraj( 43) of Alandur. Police found an African woman loitering on the streets and inquired with her only to find that she was kicked out from a lodge at C.V. Raman road in Chennai. When police reached the lodge and enquired about the Kenyan woman, they feigned ignorance. On suspicion, police took the manager and his assistant into custody and during questioning found that four Kenyan women had been lodged for the past one month and supplied for prostitution. Police found that the four women were brought from their native Kenya to Chennai and were detained and forced into prostitution rackets. The four women were brought to Chennai on a tourist visa and the visa of one of the women had expired. Greater Chennai Police have now commenced a crackdown on all the lodges, motels, and homestays to find if more such prostitution rackets were functioning in the city. Chennai, May 30 : President Droupadi Murmu will visit Chennai on June 15 to inaugurate a super specialty hospital in Guindy. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin had personally called on President Murmu in New Delhi to request her to inaugurate the hospital. The seven-storey 1,000-bed hospital has been built at a cost of Rs 230 crore in Chennai. The hospital will have all facilities including cardiothoracic surgery, neuro surgery, surgical gastroenterology, medical and surgical oncology, vascular surgery and urology. The Chief Minister had announced the construction of the hospital on June 3, 2021 and its foundation stone was laid in March 2022. Belagavi, May 30 : A major tragedy was averted as a training aircraft developed technical snag and made an emergency landing at a farm in Marihal police station limits of Belagavi district in Karnataka on Tuesday. The training aircraft VT-RBF belonged to Redbird Institute and took off from the Sambra Airport in Belagavi and was on routine sortie. Two persons including the pilot were on board, according to sources. The pilot suffered minor injuries. Belagavi District Fire Officer, Shashidhar Neelagar, stated that the incident took place at 9.40 a.m. As soon as the airport authorities were informed, a water tanker and a rescue team were rushed to the spot. "We found the training aircraft crash landed on agricultural land. The pilot is safe and he has been sent to the hospital," he said. The arrival of the technical team is awaited and the team will ascertain the exact cause for the emergency crash landing, he stated. New Delhi, May 30 : CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury on Tuesday met Delhi Chief Minister and AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal over the issue of Centre's ordinance on control of services. During the meeting, the CPI(M) leader, who was accompanied by other party leaders, condemned the Modi government and extended his party's support to the AAP. "I strongly oppose and condemn the Centre's Ordinance. This issue is not specific to any particular political party and can affect any non-BJP state. I appeal to all Opposition parties to criticise and oppose this ordinance and protect ourselves from the encroachment on the Constitution by the Modi government," AAP tweeted, quoting Yechury. Kejriwal expressed gratitude to all the leaders who supported him in the fight against the Centre. The Modi Government is acting like a dictator in Delhi and not allowing them to work, he added. "Today, senior leader Sitaram Yechury and other leaders of the CPI(M) met to discuss this issue. All the leaders believe that the Modi government is acting unjustly towards the people of Delhi. CPI(M) also organised a rally in support of the people of Delhi and will stand with them in Parliament as well. On behalf of the people of Delhi, I express heartfelt gratitude to Yechury and all the other leaders," Kejriwal tweeted. Kolkata, May 30 : West Bengal chief minister will write to the Centre for permission to visit violence-hit Manipur, Mamata Banejee said this to a section of the media. After accusing the Centre of neglecting the issue, she expressed her eagerness to visit the state and stand by the affected people and the families of the victims. Earlier, she even accused the BJP and Centre of making attempts to provoke Manipur-like caste violence in West Bengal by instigating the people from the Kurmi community against the people from other tribal backgrounds. A couple of days ago after the attack on the convoy of Trinamool Congress's national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee allegedly by some members of the Kurmi, the chief minister made this accusation against the Union government and BJP. Prior to that she had said that because of the negligence of the Union government and the reluctance of the Union ministers to visit Manipur, the situation has worsened there. Since the beginning of the clashes in Manipur on May 3, over 100 people have been killed. Despite huge deployment of security forces and Indian Army personnel the situation there is yet to be under control. In such a situation, the chief minister's decision to seek permission from the Union government to go there has created rumblings in the political circles of the state. The BJP leadership has described the chief minister's proposal to visit Manipur as her attempt to divert attention from deteriorating law & order situation in West Bengal. According to senior state BJP leader Rahul Sinha, the chief minister should first attempt to control violence in her own state rather than take initiative to solve the Manipur problem. "Rather I feel that her presence there would worsen the situation further," Sinha said. PwC Middle East, a leading professional services company in the region, today (May 31) inaugurated its regional headquarters in Riyadh. This comes as part of its broader commitment to the region to create 6,000 new jobs and continued investment in digital technology and environment, social and governance (ESG) capabilities. The regional headquarters programme is an initiative commissioned by MISA and the Royal Commision of Riyadh City (RCRC) requiring companies to establish a headquarters in the kingdom by January 1, 2024 and PwC Middle East now has obtained its licence ahead of time. PwC Middle East received its Regional Headquarters licence from the Ministry of Investment (MISA) and the Ministry of Commerce thus reinforcing its commitment towards Saudi Vision 2030, driving the transformation programme, and supporting ambitious local talent. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Minister of Investment Engineer Khalid A. Al-Falih and Dr. Hazim Zagzoog, Advisor to the Royal Court in addition to Kevin Ellis of PwC EMEA and other senior officials at Al Faisaliah hotel in Riyadh. Al-Falih said: I am delighted to join PwC Middle East as it inaugurates its new Regional HQ in Riyadh, which will help to build the RHQ ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and set global standards for how a professional services sector RHQ should operate." "It is a natural continuation of a longstanding, trusted and mutually beneficial relationship and I also commend PwC on its strong record of employing more than 1,000 talented Saudis in its workforce, he stated. Hani Ashkar, a Senior Partner at PwC Middle East, said: We are thrilled to have received our licence for our Regional Headquarters and are honoured to continue supporting the kingdoms remarkable transformation, as we accelerate towards 2030 and beyond." "At PwC Middle East, we are fully committed to supporting Saudi Arabias next phase of its transformational agenda as we digitise, decarbonise, localise, privatise and modernise, he stated. With a strong workforce of over 2,000 employees in Saudi Arabia, more than a 1,000 of whom are Saudi nationals including over 400 Saudi women, PwC Middle East is a significant contributor to talent development in the Kingdom and is committed to expanding its staffing numbers over the next three years in the region. News / Local by Staff reporter Harare magistrate Mr Stanford Mambanje has deferred to September 4 the matter in which former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko is facing allegations of wrongly ordering the release of two top Zimbabwe National Road Administration (Zinara) officials.Mphoko is charged with criminal abuse of office after he allegedly ordered the release of former acting chief executive of Zinara Moses Juma, and former board member Davison Norupiri from Avondale Police Station in Harare after their arrest in 2016. New Delhi, May 30 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the family members of a 16-year-old girl who was brutally stabbed to death by Sahil in Shahbad Dairy. "The Delhi government will provide a financial assistance of ten lakh rupees to Sakshi's family and make every effort to ensure that the guilty party receives the harshest punishment through the court. Prominent lawyers will be mobilized for this cause," Kejriwal tweeted. Sakshi was brutally killed by Sahil on Sunday evening. Sahil works as a Fridge-AC repairing mechanic. A video of the incident went viral on social media. In the video, Sahil, who is wearing a blue T-shirt, can be seen stabbing the girl. Around seven to eight bystanders are present at the spot and observing as he stabs her. A man wearing a dark red-coloured shirt attempts to intervene, but Sahil pushes him away. In the video, Sahil continues to stab the girl while also issuing threats to the bystanders, causing them to disperse. After stabbing her, Sahil kicks the girl multiple times and then strikes her with a boulder five times. He then briefly leaves the scene but returns shortly after. He strikes the girl with the boulder once again, kicks her multiple times, and then finally departs, as seen in the video. "The deceased was on her way to attend the birthday of her friend's son when Sahil intercepted her and brutally killed her. A case under section 302 (murder) of the IPC has been registered on the complaint of the victim's father," the official added. Singapore, May 30 : A 39 year-old Indian priest at Singapore's oldest Hindu temple was jailed for six years on Tuesday for repeatedly pawning jewellery worth over )(Singaporean) $1 million that was used to adorn temple deities, a media report said. Kandasamy Senapathi of Sri Mariamman Temple in South Bridge Road made over (Singaporean) $2.3 million in total by pawning temple jewellery for over five years, The Straits Times reported. He pleaded guilty to two charges of criminal breach of trust by an employee and two counts of removing the benefits of his criminal activities from the jurisdiction. According to the report, six similar charges were taken into consideration during the Indian national's sentencing. Kandasamy was employed by the Hindu Endowments Board (HEB) in December 2013 and was promoted to chief priest at the temple in July 2018, Deputy Public Prosecutor Janice See told the court. In 2014, he was entrusted with the keys and number code to the safe in the temple's holy sanctum, which contained about 255 pieces of gold jewellery valued at about (Singaporean) $1.1 million. From 2016 to 2020, Kandasamy pawned 66 pieces of the jewellery over 172 occasions and received a total amount of (Singaporean) $2,328,760. He deposited a portion of the money into his personal bank account and remitted (Singaporean) $141,054.90 to India. His activities went undetected as he was able to borrow sufficient money to redeem the pawned jewellery whenever he knew an audit was being scheduled, The Times reported. Once the audit was completed, he would pawn the temple's jewellery again to return the money borrowed. In June 2020, Kandasamy told a member of the temple's finance team who was arranging for a routine external audit that it was likely that he had left the key to the safe in India when he went there to visit his family. Realising that the audit will proceed as planned, Kandasamy confessed on July 2, 2020, to pawning the jewellery, and a police report was lodged on July 29, 2020. All 66 pieces of jewellery he pawned have since been returned to the temple, which suffered no loss, and Kandasamy is no longer with the HEB. Describing his client's action as a "stupid venture", Kandasamy's lawyer told the court that he wanted to help some friends in India, including one whose mother was suffering from cancer, as well as some schools back home. New Delhi, May 30: An on-ground report into the unprecedented communal violence in Leicester, the UK, during August-September 2022 blames the rise of "ethnic enclaves (organised by religion)" that led to "territorial tensions and localised majoritarianism". The investigation - Fact-finding Report on Leicester Violence 2022 - The Rise of Territorial Majoritarianism and Hinduphobia, was conducted by the Centre for Democracy, Pluralism, and Human Rights (CDPHR) and authored by Rashmi Samant and Chris Blackburn. In August-September 2022, Leicester city witnessed protest marches, vandalism of Hindu homes and a temple as mobs of youth from other cities travelled to Leicester to foment violence and tensions. Over four dozen policemen were attacked and the social media was rife with messages calling for violence and revenge. The Leicester police, which initially took the violence lightly, had to call reinforcements from London as violence spiralled. The report also looks into implications of the Leicester communal violence on the democratic values and "human rights of micro-minority communities" in a liberal and multi-faith and multi-cultural Britain. It analyses the role of social media platforms and the mainstream media in fomenting violence and creating disharmony. The report says: "By spreading misinformation, the attackers attempted to undermine fundamental principles of democracy and pluralism, including freedom of expression," adding, "The organised dissemination of misinformation regarding the Hindu community and the sustained nature of the subsequent organised attacks which were extremely targeted in nature make it clear that the unrest was not spontaneous by any measure." The CDPHR report says: "Symptoms of territorial ethnic cleansing were found through the analysis of the different slogans and speeches made by the majority community (Muslim) of East Leicester and the temporary displacement of Hindu community as a result of the unrest." It adds that the attacks were targeted against individuals based on their religious beliefs and affiliations, particularly the Hindus. The report also looks at the role of contemporary politics in the Indian sub-continent where the Hindu minority and its religious symbols have been made consistent targets of attacks in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Moreover, in Kashmir the Hindus have been ethnically cleansed by the Muslim majority with moral and violent support from Pakistan - and a similar attempt was made in Leicester last year. In this regard, the report says that there has been an export of the idea of "territorial majoritarianism" from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Kashmir into Leicester and attempts at ethnic cleansing which resulted in the temporary displacement of Hindu families from their homes. The report says: "There was an attempt to defame and vilify the Hindu community as Hindutva nationalist and extremists with malicious propaganda of false kidnapping of a minor Muslim girl, false stabbing of Muslim traffic warden, false account of a mosque attack and false accusation of desecration of the Quran." Through its ground-based investigation, CDPHR has also highlighted how the British mainstream media and the local police were misled by Islamists in Leicester. It points how "institutional Hinduphobia and bias was deduced through the analysis of the reporting of the Leicester unrest" by the BBC and The Guardian as compared to police reports, witness accounts and investigations by think tanks. The reports says the unrest started with social media misinformation and amplification, though many of these posts have subsequently been deleted. It takes notes of a number of British Muslims who issued a series of fake news against the Hindus leading to attacks amidst a growing trend of Hinduphobia. The detailed report also presents the break-up and growth of religions where it finds that the Muslim population has grown from 30,885 to 86,443 between 2001 to 2021 while there is a considerable decline in the Christian population from 125,187 in 2001 to just 91,161 in 2021. The Hindu population has marginally grown from 41,248 to 65,821 during the same period. It says that most of the Muslim migrants to Leicester have come from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Somalia. The report has provided suggestions and recommendations for lawmakers, enforcement agencies, the British civil society, faith-based organisations as well as community leaders to avoid similar incidents in the future. Among the various measures, CDPHR has urged the government and the media to address the rise of extremism and hate speech. It also suggests that the public be educated on democratic values such as tolerance, respect, and dialogue. It has also suggested that the common citizen be educated on how to differentiate between reliable and unreliable sources of information on social media. Regarding the mainstream media, the recommendations include setting up an independent ombudsman and a public complaints system. The CDPHR has recommended the involvement of civil society organisations in promoting pluralism and tolerance among the diverse faiths of Leicester - a city known as a melting pot for different faiths and diverse cultures. (The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative Thiruvananthapuram, May 30 : The Congress party on Tuesday slammed Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for his adamant stand that he will go forward with the K-Rail project and claimed that it was only meant to pocket the commission. This project conceived to run across the state is expected to cost a staggering Rs 2 lakh crores. State Congress president K. Sudhakaran said that the full report of the CPI-M supported Kerala Sastra Sahitya Parishad, which has now come out, clearly states that this is a project which would be hugely detrimental to the state. The CPI-M should now come out and admit that this is not a project that should be taken forward, he added. "Vijayan's only interest is to pocket the commission that would come, if the project is given the signal to go forward. Vijayan remains adamant, even when there was no sanction for his project," said Sudhakaran. "The situation today is now a Rajya Sabha member's wife and a few comrades continue to remain in the office of K-Rail eating up taxpayer's money, but we are not going to allow this needless project to go forward in any manner as we are worried about the future of the state and will not allow Vijayan's game plan to go forward," added Sudhakaran. San Francisco, May 31 : Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in the US on Tuesday, where he is slated to deliver a lecture at the Stanford University and conduct meetings with American lawmakers, think tanks and others. Rahul Gandhi arrived at San Francisco Airport on Tuesday morning, where he was received by Indian Overseas Congress chairman Sam Pitroda and many other leaders. A party source said that after his arrival at the airport, many people got the opportunity to click selfies with the Congress leader as it took almost one and half hours for security clearance after his flight landed. Rahul Gandhi has travelled on an ordinary passport, after he has to surrender his diplomatic passport following the disqualification as a Lok Sabha MP. The source said that the Congress leader in San Francisco will interact with the Indian diaspora, venture capitalists, tech executives and students at Silicon Valley. He will also interact with senior technology executives on artificial intelligence. The source said that the former Wayanad Lok Sabha MP will attend several programmes in Washington D.C. that includes his speech at the National Press Club on the future of Indian democracy, freedom of speech, and sustainable and inclusive economic growth. In Washington D.C., the former Congress chief will also meet American lawmakers and think tanks, and will also attend a dinner hosted by Indian-American entrepreneur Frank Islam and top business leaders, Senators and Congressmen. He will then visit New York, where he will be meeting with thinkers at the Harvard Club of Harvard University. He will also participate in a lunch event and meet a set of successful Indian-Americans in the creative industry. On June 4, Rahul Gandhi will address a public gathering at the Javits Center in New York organised by the Indian Overseas Congress. New Delhi, May 31 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is conducting raids at more than 25 locations in Karnataka, Kerala, and Bihar in connection with the Phulwari Sharif case involving the banned Popular Front of India (PFI). The NIA has not made any official statement in the matter so far. During the raids, sources claimed that they have recovered a few incriminating documents. "We are probing the funding angle. The funding was being done from these areas which we are raiding," the source said. In Karnataka the raids were taking place in the Dakshina Kannada area. Further details were awaited. The case was initially registered on July 12, 2022 at police station Phulwari Sharif, district Patna, Bihar and re-registered by the NIA on July 22, 2022. The NIA filed a charge sheet against four accused on January 7, 2023. "Investigations have revealed that Anwar is a former member of the banned terrorist organisation SIMI and is currently associated with several PFI members of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, including one Athar Parvez who was named in the FIR and arrested on July 12 last year," the NIA had stated. The NIA had said that Anwar was instrumental in preparing a secret group of former SIMI members to work for the PFI, according to the NIA investigation. The prime agenda, under the banner of PFI, was to establish Islamic Rule in India as envisioned in the outfit's 'India 2047 Document'. Johannesburg, May 31 : South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation said that it will provide diplomatic immunity to all attendees of the two BRICS meetings. BRICS is the acronym for an emerging-market bloc that groups Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, reports Xinhua news agency. South Africa assumed the BRICS presidency on January 1, 2023, taking over from China. "This is a standard conferment of immunities that we do for all international conferences and summits held in South Africa irrespective of the level of participation. The immunities are for the conference and not for specific individuals," the Department said in a statement. The announcement came after the department issued a notice in the government gazette Monday in terms of the Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges Act for the upcoming BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting in Cape Town in June and the bloc's summit to be held in Johannesburg in August. "They are meant to protect the conference and its attendees from the jurisdiction of the host country for the duration of the conference. "These immunities do not override any warrant that may have been issued by any international tribunal against any attendee of the conference," the statement said. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Thiruvananthapuram, May 31 : A youth was arrested in connection with the recent death of a 17-year-old girl in a school run by the Al-Aman Education and Charitable Trust located at the capital city suburbs, on Wednesday. After the girl belonging to the Muslim community was found hanging in a building of the Trust on May 13, a special police investigation team was formed to probe the death. The local BJP launched a protest, while the girl's family suspected foul play in her death. While the Trust officials ruled out any wrong-doing on their part, the BJP and its feeder organisations were adamant on a proper probe. The probe team, after receiving the autopsy report which stated that the girl was sexually abused around six months back, took into custody 20-year-old Hashim Khan. Police have registered charges under POCSO Act. Washington, May 31 : A hard-line Republican revolt could not prevent legislation to raise the US debt ceiling from clearing its first procedural hurdle in the House of Representatives. The two parties finally reached a deal late Tuesday evening after a showdown lasting months, then weeks of painstaking negotiations, reports the BBC. Now the two leaders -- Democratic President Joe Biden and Republican Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy -- must sell their weekend agreement to their members of Congress. They believe that even with some defections on the left and right, they have the votes to pass a bill before the deadline, CNN reported. The Treasury has moved the day the US would hit its borrowing limit to June 5. For the moment financial markets appear to have calmed as the prospect recedes of the global economic chaos that would result from the world's biggest economy defaulting on its $31.4 trillion debt, the BBC reported. That could quickly change, however, if the multi-step process for approving the debt-limit agreement is derailed or otherwise blocked in the days ahead. The deal introduces new federal spending limits and restrictions on low-income aid programmes in exchange for a debt-limit increase. The debt ceiling is a spending limit set by Congress which determines how much money the government can borrow, the BBC reported. Failure to raise it beyond the current cap of roughly $31.4 trillion by June could result in the US defaulting on its debt. That would mean the government could not borrow any more money or pay all of its bills. It would also threaten to wreak havoc on the global economy, affecting prices and mortgage rates in other countries. New Delhi, May 31 : Luxury car brand Lexus has embarked on a collaborative journey with designers Abraham & Thakore to pursue luxury that is personal and conscious. Lexus has teamed up with the masters of minimalism - Abraham & Thakore to release limited edition jackets featuring custom designs inspired by the brand. Designed based on the Lexus philosophy, the collaboration compliments the brand's style and its purpose as a luxury lifestyle brand in India. Akin to the design philosophy of the new LC, the Abraham & Thakore capsule collection as aptly titled Lexus Life, symbolises the luxury of craft, the sustainability of design, the beauty of the handmade, and is in line with Lexus' Omotenashi principles of luxury and fulfilling guest needs. The menswear range is a striking Lexus electrified jacket quilted using Trapunto technique - layers of tabby silk are stitched together to create a layered, tone-on-tone effect. The corozo buttons are made from the nut of a palm tree and are akin to 'vegetable ivory'. The womenswear is a majestic Lexus electrified puffer jacket, featuring a contrast stitch. Quilted in pure shot silk, the jacket's light weight viscose lining keeps one warm and comfortable. The collection features Abraham & Thakore's signature touches in a design sensibility that is thoughtful and inspired by traditional craftsmanship. Commenting on the new range, David Abraham & Rakesh Thakore said, "Lexus Life by Abraham & Thakore is about the luxury of craft, the sustainability of design and the beauty of hand. The design language of brand Lexus matches the DNA of Abraham & Thakore that is understated, bold, luxurious and humble. We are happy to see the start of an exciting journey together towards making luxury personal." Also sharing his views on the collaboration and the latest offering from Lexus in India, Naveen Soni, President, Lexus India said, "As a conscious lifestyle luxury brand, we are always open to working with like-minded brands and individuals who believe in crafting amazing experiences for a better tomorrow. We are proud to partner with Abraham & Thakore who are bringing their own creative aesthetic to reflect contemporary yet non-conforming fashion and sustainability that is synonymous with both the brands. Both Lexus and A&T believe that real luxury lies in specially crafted products in limited numbers of high quality and this collection is no exception." (IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in) News / National by Mandla Ndlovu President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially declared that Zimbabwe is scheduled to hold elections on August 23, as stated in a gazette publication.Additionally, in the same proclamation, the President has designated October 2 as the potential date for a run-off election for the office of the President, should it be required. Copenhagen, May 31 : The Danish government has proposed a defence settlement worth 143 billion kroner ($21 billion) over the next 10 years, in an unprecedented strategic move, Acting Minister of Defence Troels Lund Poulsen said. "We must stand up stronger in the face of the serious, new threat that we are looking at now and in the future," Xinhua news agency quoted Poulsen as saying "The government will significantly strengthen Danish defence and security with approximately 143 billion kroner over the next 10 years, with a steadily increasing framework for new initiatives from 2024," he added. The proposed settlement includes a flexible framework agreement that outlines the overall strategic direction and financial constraints for Danish defence and security, while further details will be decided in sub-agreements starting in autumn 2023. The government has identified three geographical areas of action for the Danish Armed Forces, where it says the country needs to take more responsibility: the Commonwealth of Nations (Greenland and Faroe Islands), the neighbouring Eastern regions, and global conflict hotspots. The plan would also ensure Denmark meets its NATO goal of spending two percent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defence and security by 2030. This commitment is in line with the Danish government's ambition to strengthen society's resilience against emerging threats, such as cyberattacks and critical infrastructure attacks. Large investments "must also benefit society as a whole by contributing to Danish industry, research, and workplaces," said Poulsen. The proposed defence settlement is awaiting political consensus within the Danish Parliament. New Delhi, May 31 : OTT platforms in India produce a wide range of material for viewers each month. In the forthcoming month of June, 2023, many much anticipated OTT releases are expected to be published. Let's take a look at some of most awaited list: 'Asur 2' Viewers are anxiously anticipating the second season of this legendary criminal drama series following the success of the previous season. JioCinema will offer this web series starring Arshad Warsi without charge. For an overview of the plot, viewers can watch its first season on the Voot app. Release Date: June 1 'Mumbaikar' The plot revolves around the happiness, drama, joy, and romance that Mumbai residents experience on a daily basis. Release Date: June 2 'Scoop' A well-known crime reporter battles for justice in the death of a journalist and gets in trouble with the media, the police, and Mumbai's underworld as a result. This Netflix original series is based on Jigna Vora's book Behind Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison. Release Date: June 2 'School Of Lies' The main character of this new criminal thriller starring Nimrat Kaur is a young child who gets lost in a dormitory. As a number of kids and staff enter the vision linked with the scenario, this one incidence completely affects the climate of the school. Disney Plus Hotstar will host the world premiere of The School of Lies. Release Date: June 2 'Bloody Daddy' This Ali Abbas Zafar-directed film starring Shahid Kapoor will air on JioCinema. Release Date: June 9 'The Night Manager 2' This exciting thriller is perfect for those who enjoy beautiful scenery and lavish drama. The main character of this programme is Shaan, a night manager on a mission to bring down prominent arms dealer Shailendra Rungta. This program's second season will run on Disney Plus Hotstar. Release Date: June 30 (IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in) Thiruvananthapuram, May 31 : Trouble seems to be brewing in the Kerala unit of the NCP, an ally of the ruling CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front, which has two MLAs in the state. Of the two legislators -- State Forest Minister A.K.Saseendran and Thomas K.Thomas --, the latter has been warned by the party national president Sharad Pawar against airing personal differences in public. Apparently, Thomas is cut up with State NCP president- P.C.Chacko, a former top brass of the Indian National Congress. Thomas expressed his ire when Chacko decided to intervene in local party affairs at the home district of Thomas which is Alappuzha and what started as a small difference of opinion between the two has assumed the form of an ugly spat. Since Saseendran has pledged his full support to the Chacko camp, Thomas is angry with him too. "Chacko is interfering in the appointment of the Alappuzha district party president of our party. He is trying to ruin the party and wants me to be thrown out. He is trying to impose things, which should be done either by Pawarji or Praful Patel," said Thomas. To his utter surprise this morning, Thomas was served with a warning to behave himself and talk about issues only in the party forums. Incidentally, Thomas who won from the Kuttanad Assembly constituency in Alappuzha is the brother of businessman-turned former MLA who also was a State Minister- Thomas Chandy who won thrice but passed away while being a legislator in 2019. His seat was given to Thomas in the 2021 Assembly elections which he won comfortably. Things for Thomas have not been smooth as many in the NCP feel he should not have been given the seat and ever since his victory and with the arrival of Chacko, he has been feeling the heat. Now all eyes are on Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan who Thomas expects will intervene to resolve issues, as the two share a good rapport. Patna, May 31 : The state health department conducted raids on 99 ultrasound centres in Siwan district and sealed 27 of them for failing to fulfil the necessary parameters. The raids were going on for the last three days. Sources said the health department had received complaints about these centres being used to test gender on unborn babies. The raids were conducted by dedicated teams headed by a medical officer and CO/BDO rank officers on the direction of district magistrate. "We have conducted raids on the direction of the district magistrate and sealed 27 ultrasound centres. They do not have valid licenses and other irregularities and failed on the parameters set by the health department," said Rambabu Baitha, SDO of Siwan. Sources said that the operators of the centres were violating the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act. The officer also added that such raids will continue in the future as well. Lucknow, May 31 : The ongoing battle between Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and the country's top grapplers is now turning into a face-off between Ayodhya seers and khap leaders of western Uttar Pradesh. The khaps of Haryana and farmer outfits of western Uttar Pradesh led by Rakesh Tikait have extended their support to the wrestlers protesting against alleged sexual harassment by the WFI chief. It was Naresh Tikait, BKU chief, who persuaded wrestlers on Tuesday evening not to immerse their medals in the Ganga in Haridwar. He convinced them to hand over their medal to the President in protest against delay in action against Brij Bhushan. Meanwhile, a prominent seer in Ayodhya said: "The only option left for Brij Bhushan to counter khaps and farmer outfits is by mobilising support of Ayodhya seers. Singh's association with Ayodhya, its seers and the Ram Mandir movement is more than enough for seers to come out in his support." The seers supporting Singh are also demanding amendment to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. It was in Ayodhya that Brij Bhushanrose to become the general secretary of the students' union of Saket PG College and then waded into mainstream politics while practising wrestling under the watchful eyes of the priests of Hanuman Garhi temple. The seers have decided to throw their weight behind Brij Bhushan's 'Jan Chetna Maha Rally' at Ram Katha Park in Ayodhya to make it a mega-show on June 5. Followers of Mani Ram Das Chhavni Peeth of Ayodhya based in Varanasi, Haridwar and Mathura cities will also attend the rally. Sinking their differences, seers of Ayodhya will come on a common platform to extend support to Brij Bhushanh who was also a known face of the Ram Mandir movement. The all-powerful Mani Ram Das Chhavni Peeth led by Mahant Kamal Nayan Das and the Lakshman Qila faction led by Mahant Maithili Raman Sharan have set aside their differences to present a united front in favour of the WFI chief. "Brij Bhushan's roots are deeply entrenched in Ayodhya. From college days to mainstream politics and Ram Mandir movement, he has spent a long part of his life in Ayodhya. He was a local resident then and was closely associated with seers, especially sadhus of Hanuman Garhi temple," said Mahant Kamal Nayan Das. "Brij Bhushan's clout in Ayodhya is such that seers of various factions have come on a common platform to extend support to him. All charges against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh are politically motivated and fake. We demand a probe and action against those who are responsible for this controversy," he said. Mahant Kamal Nayan is successor to Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, chairman of Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra Trust. Reiterating his demand for an amendment on the POCSO Act, Mahant Kamal Nayan said: "Innocent people are being harassed by misusing the POCSO Act. Fake allegations are being levelled against them, especially seers, mahants and politicians. It must be amended." This demand is not without reason. After the Supreme Court's order, the Delhi Police on April 29 this year, lodged two FIRs against Brij Bhushan. The first FIR was under the POCSO Act on the complaint of sexual harassment by a minor wrestler. Meanwhile, the VHP cadre at Karsewakpuram in Ayodhya, the epicentre of the Ram Mandir movement, is also mobilising support for Brij Bhushan's June 5 rally. "There is no directive from the organisation (VHP) for Brij Bhushan Sharan's rally. Whatever we are doing is due to his close association with the Ram Mandir movement," said a VHP office bearer. Rakesh Tikait, on the other hand, said that farmers would stand in support of the wrestlers who are the pride of the nation. "We will take this fight to its logical conclusion, no matter how long it takes. The wrestlers are our children and we will not allow any harm to them and their honour," he said. Lucknow, May 31 : The Uttar Pradesh government appointed 1988 batch IPS Vijay Kumar as the new officiating DGP of the state on Wednesday. Kumar was given the charge after DGP R.K. Vishwakarma retired on Wednesday. Kumar also holds the charges of DG CB-CID and DG vigilance. For the third consecutive time, the government has appointed an officiating DGP and not a permanent one. The government did not send the panel of names to the Centre --a requirement to shortlist names of the right candidate. According to sources in the home department, based on seniority which has been a precedent since 2020 in appointment of DGPs, Vijay Kumar was chosen. R.K. Vishwakarma was also made the officiating DGP of the state on March 31, after then officiating DGP D.S. Chauhan had superannuated. Chauhan was made officiating DGP on May 12, 2022 after Mukul Goel was removed. Thereafter in October, while his six-month tenure was still left, the state government had sent a proposal to the Centre for finalising his name along with other DGs but the Centre had written back asking the reasons for which Goel was removed. Since then, a stalemate has continued. Lucknow, May 31 : The Uttar Pradesh Police will unveil new and special plans to handle law and order issues which include AI-based policing, special mobile command control vehicles, dedicated social media centres in districts, and integrated command centre in the Home Department. Special Director General, law and order, Prashant Kumar, said" "The state government has undertaken a series of police reforms. As a pilot project, special mobile command control vehicles will be deployed in 10 districts. These vehicles will help in controlling law and order, natural disasters and riots. Equipped with hi-tech cameras, drones and wireless systems, these vehicles will also be integrated with the DGP headquarters to give live information of the situation from ground zero." The Special DG said that a separate integrated law and order command centre was being set up in the home department which would be controlled by the state police. "The purpose is to bring multiple sources of information to one medium on the dashboard which will reflect all details in a refined form and allocate officers concerned on the field to respond," he said. Elaborating on the initiative of social media policing, Kumar said that a dedicated centre in all districts would be set up. "In the first phase, a budget for 10 districts, including eight police zone headquarters, along with Ghaziabad and Noida, has been sanctioned. These social media centres will be equipped with state-of-the-art video wall tools. A team of eight policemen will be deployed under an inspector rank officer who will work in coordination with the DGP social media cell. Training will be given to cops deployed here by the Bureau of Police Research and Development, along with Kaushal Vikas Mission," he said. "AI-based apps are being used by UP police. The DGP headquarters has directed all the district police chiefs to mark the latitude and longitude of all the places where heinous crimes take place. Over a period, it will be linked to our Trinetra app and hotspots will be marked so that, UP 112 motorcycles and PRVs can be deployed accordingly to curb crime." The state police have also procured 7,912 special body-worn protective gears for women in the police force. "We have also purchased 3,300 body-worn cameras for cops in districts. For the first time, body-worn cameras will be used by district police," he said. Bhubaneswar, May 31 : As many as 78,938 of the 92,950 students have cleared the annual higher secondary (Class-XII) science examination in Odisha, results of which were announced by school and mass education minister Sudam Marndi here on Wednesday. Students can check their results on the official website of Council of Higher Secondary Education (CHSE) at chseodisha.nic.in and orissaresults.nic.in. In science stream, out of 93,734 enrolled students, 92,950 students have appeared in the annual Plus-II science examination, of which 78,938 students have cleared the test conducted by the CHSE, he said. Of the 90,679 regular students who have appeared in the science stream, 77,468 have passed out. Similarly, 1470 of the 2437 ex-regular students cleared the test. The performance of girls is better than the boys in the annual examination. The pass percentage of boys and girls stood at 84.28 and 85.67 per cent, respectively. While 358 students have secured more than 90 per cent marks, 291 schools have scored 100 per cent results and two schools have zero results. Nayagarh district has recorded the highest 96.41 per cent result while Gajapati district is at the bottom with a pass percentage of 61.55, the Minister said. Moreover, 39,573 students have secured first division, 24,257 in second division and 14,852 got third division in the Class-XII science examination, he said. The Odisha government has also declared the Class-XII commerce result. Marndi said that 24,331 students have enrolled in the commerce stream, of which 24,082 students have appeared in the examination and 19,536 students have passed out. The overall pass percentage in the commerce stream stood at 81.12. In the commerce stream too the girls outshine then the boys. The pass percentage of boys and girls stood at 79.52 per cent & 83.87 per cent, respectively. The Minister informed that 102 students have secured more than 90 per cent marks in commerce. While 7410 students have secured first division, 4543 got second division and 7492 got third division in the exam. Nayagarh district has recorded the highest 93.9 per cent result while Boudh district is at the bottom with a pass percentage of 55.55, he said. The students can get their marksheets in Digilocker from June 10 onwards. The result of Plus-II arts and vocation courses is likely to be declared on June 8, officials said. Colombo, May 31 : Sri Lanka has invited Tamil superstar Rajinikanth to visit the island nation in an effort to boost tourism. Sri Lanka's Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. D. Venkateshwaran met the world renowned actor at the latter's residence in Chennai invited him to visit the island nation "as his presence will enhance cinema-induced tourism as well as spiritual and wellness tourism". The envoy extended an invitation for Rajinikanth to explore the newly-arranged 'Ramayana Trail' that is exclusive to Sri Lanka and also other unique Buddhist sites in India's southern neighbour. The Padma Bhushan awarded superstar has a massive following among the Tamil community in Sri Lanka, while he is also extremely popular among the movie loving Sinhalese and other ethnic communities. Earlier this month, Sri Lanka had also announced a plan to strengthen ties with Uttar Pradesh by promoting the Ramayana Trail in the island nation and the Buddhist Trail in the Indian state through a formal framework. San Francisco, May 31 : Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi weighed into the proportion-per-population delimitation row while talking about the increased number of seats in the new Parliament House, which he said was a distraction as the real issues were unemployment that the BJP can't discuss. "I will have to look at exactly how they are thinking about doing it. One has to be very careful when one changes the representative structure of the country. I would be quite interested in understanding how they've come up with the number 800 and what are the criteria they are using," Rahul Gandhi said on Tuesday while interacting with the Indian diaspora here. The former Lok Sabha MP from Kerala's Wayanad said, "India is a conversation. It is a negotiation between its languages, people, histories and cultures. And that negotiation has to be fair. Meaning all parts of India, all states of India should feel that there is fairness in the process of negotiation." He said: "If I see how exactly they are coming up with 800 and what is the design then I would be able to answer if I agree with the number 800 but I have not seen how they have calculated it. "It depends how the ratios change. It is currently based on population. I think the Parliament House is a distraction. The real issues in India are unemployment, price rise, spread of anger and hatred, crumbling educational system, price of health. BJP can't really discuss these issues, that's why they have to do this whole sceptre thing. Lying down and doing all that." During an interaction with the Indian community at the University of Santa Clara, he responded to a question about the provision of seating 888 in the newly inaugurated Parliament building and whether proportion to population was a fair way of ensuring representation. Rahul Gandhi is on a six-day visit to the US and he will attend several programmes in California, New York and Washington D.C. Rahul Gandhi also said that the best way to explain is -- "it is nafrat ke bazaar me mohabbat ki dukan. "It is felt most strongly by the Muslim community because it is done most directly to them, but in fact it is done to all minorities and the same way your feelings are attacked and I can guarantee the same feelings by Sikhs, Christians, Dalit and the poor," he said, while responding to a question what hope he will give to the Muslims. "Anybody who is poor in India today feels the same way, if he looks at the extreme wealth that a limited number of people have, he feels the same way in which you feel. That is what is going on, how is it that these five people have lakhs of crores, and I have nothing to eat. You feel it most because it is directed at you more directly but it is phenomena. And you cannot cut hatred with hatred, it is impossible you can only cut it with love and affection. And, how easy it was to erase hatred in India. "I didn't imagine that by holding a yatra it would have such an impact. The people don't believe in hating each other, don't believe in killing. This is a small group of people who have got control of the system, media and who are fully supported by big money," he added. Opinion / Columnist President William Ruto has asked African leaders to take first steps towards ditching the globally-bullish US dollar by signing up to a pan-African payments system to facilitate trade within the continent.Dr Ruto has urged his peers in Africa to mobilise central and commercial banks to join Pan-African Payments and Settlement System (PAPSS) which was launched in January 2022.The system for intra-African trade was developed by African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. The initiative was backed by the African Union and African central banks."We are all struggling to make payments for goods and services from one country to another because of differences in currencies. And in the middle of all these, we are all subjected to a dollar environment," Dr Ruto told a forum of government and private sector officials attending a forum on AfCFTA in Nairobi on Monday."There has been a mechanism where all our traders can trade in the local currency and we leave it to the Afreximbank to settle all the payments. We do not have to look for dollars; our businessmen will concentrate on moving goods and services, and leave the arduous task of currencies to Afreximbank."It takes about three to five days for the payment to get to the recipient's bank with charges at every stage.Importers such as oil marketers and manufacturers have since last year complained of a gaping mismatch in demand and supply of the US dollars, prompting them to buy it in batches and levels way above the official rate.The Kenya Association of Manufacturers, for example, last year said the dollar crunch strained relations with suppliers at a time competition for raw materials had intensified due to rising demand amid lingering supply chain constraints.The unit has remained under sustained pressure from the US dollar due to higher demand than supply in a high-inflation environment that has seen investors shift their assets to safe haven.This has seen the Kenyan currency shed about 12.1 percent of its value since the beginning of the year to exchange at about 138.33 units per dollar.That has in turn pressured prices of key inputs such as fuel and raw materials for factories in a net import economy."I suggest that we have a mechanism where we can settle all our payments whether between our countries or externally using our [local] currencies. And we have a mechanism like the one that has been put up by the Afreximbank so that we don't have to be hostage to any one currency," Kenya's leader said."Without a single payment platform, payment instructions from one African country to another typically passes through several intermediary financial institutions, leading to increased costs, complications, problems and unnecessary currency fluctuations and it ends up being a whole ecosystem of confusion."Kenya suffered an acute shortage of fuel in what the oil marketers largely linked to delays in releasing cash for fuel subsidy creating cash flow challenges, while the government accused the firms of hoarding the commodity.Earlier this month, the President said Kenya last year ran an artificial exchange rate market that caused a biting shortage of fuel, resulting in rationing of the essential commodity, contradicting the governor of the Central Bank of Kenya Patrick Njoroge."We discovered there wasn't a fuel [shortage] problem. It was a misdiagnosis. The problem was economic and much more a dollar problem.There was fuel that had come, but the oil marketers could not find the dollars to go and buy because the government was maintaining an artificial rate," Dr Ruto told a media engagement session on May 14. Hyderabad, May 31 : A Telangana High Court judge has called for video clippings of debates on two Telugu news channels with regard to the case relating to anticipatory bail plea of Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy in Vivekananda Reddy murder case. Justice M. Laxman, who granted anticipatory bail to the petitioner subject to certain conditions, observed that comments made by some of the participants in the debate amounted to contempt of court but left it to the Chief Justice of the High Court to take action. The judge mentioned in his order attempts by selective media to thwart and derail the judicial process by making attempts to tarnish his image. He stated that attempts were made to intimidate and threaten to derail the independent thought process in arriving at a just decision in this matter. He directed the High Court Registry to place the order and video clippings of debates of Mahaa News and ABN News of May 26 before the Chief Justice of the High Court to take appropriate decisions. "The individuals of selective media facilitated and abetted by airing views of selective personnel of their choice with conscious knowledge of their antecedents to intimidate, to threaten and to damage my reputation by personal attack," the judge observed. Stating that he has the greatest regard to press and news media which is the fourth estate and which is forerunner in preserving democracy, he lamented that day by day, the reputation of 'such an important institution is eroding but for some individuals.' "One of the participants, who is suspended and detained judge made direct attack by saying "money bags went to Judge". Other participant who seems to be holding respectable office used derogatory language ("Cheyyendra") and gestures which are aimed to tarnish my comprehension and competency abilities by his mis-interpretation and misunderstanding of deliberations of Court proceedings," reads the order. "I am least worried about such attempts to tarnish an image since one's image is indestructible and if such an image is prone to destruction, it is not an image at all," he observed. "All that concerns me is the inroads of such actions to damage institutional image. It is high time to protect our image by concerted efforts. I am greatly hurt not by individual comment but facilitation and abetment done by selective media. In my view, such actions clearly amount to invocation of proceedings under contempt of Courts Act, but I desist from leaving it open to the head of institution to take or not to take action. At one stage, I thought of recusal, but for direction of the ApexA Court and remindful of oath of office particularly ace discharge of duties without fear, I changed my mind." Kochi, May 31 : Even as the Kerala government is claiming a conducive atmosphere for the businesses, a prominent businessman-politician N.A. Mohammed Kutty has raised a red flag. Kutty, a frontline politician with the NCP, which is an ally of the CPI(M) in the Left Front government, is deeply disappointed with the attitude of the local self-government officials, and also a local CPI(M) leader. He has decided to close down his Container Freight Station located in Kalamassery (Ernakulam district), which is the Assembly constituency of state Industries Minister P. Rajeev due to the unfriendly attitude of those who matter in the CPI(M). Kutty, who unsuccessfully contested as an NCP candidate from Kottackal constituency in Malappuram district, said there have been no favourable actions from any quarters, including from Rajeev. "The Eloor Municipality and local CPI(M) leaders are playing truant, even when I have all the necessary papers for what I am doing now. Things are not going smoothly," said Kutty. But, the Municipality officials state that they got complaints from people that landfilling is being done, and they have asked for a report from the revenue authorities. Kutty's business includes parking space for containers that arrive in Kochi and facilities for the drivers. But, trouble began when he started to fill his land with mud, which according to him, the local CPI(M) workers objected to. Toronto, May 31 : A man accused of killing an Indian student in 2022 in Canada's British Columbia province will stand trial on the charge of second-degree murder, a media report said. Dante Ognibene-Hebbourn, 23, was apprehended under the Mental Health Act after the February 26, 2022, attack on 24-year-old Harmandeep Kaur at the University of British Columbia's Okanagan Campus. A month later, he was charged with Kaur's murder and has been in custody ever since. He is now expected to reappear in court on June 12 to fix a trial date, the Global News reported. Kaur was a student and also worked as a security guard at The University of British Columbia's Okanagan campus when she was fatally attacked. Kaur, who had come from India had been living in Canada for over five years and aspired to be a paramedic. She had got her permanent residency card just weeks before her death, her family members said. Hundreds of people had gathered at the university campus last year to honour Kaur and the school lowered its flags to half-mast in the days after her death. Shimla, May 31 : Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Wednesday inspected the undergoing strategically important Kiratpur-Manali road highway project and as well as the Bhanupalli-Bilaspur-Beri rail line project implemented by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited of New Delhi. The Governor inspected the underground railway crossing at Bharari and tunnel number one at Kiratpur, which is 1.8-km long. Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said the Kiratpur to Manali road project is of great significance and of strategic importance. "This project will also give wings to tourism sector in the state," Shukla said. He said that the locals would also be facilitated and the possibility of employment at the local level will also increase. He thanked Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari for the road project. Expressing contentment, he said that the work of five tunnels between Kiratpur and Mandi has been completed and five more tunnels would be opened within the next three months. He directed authorities to complete work within the stipulated time. On this occasion, Varun Chari, Project Director of National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), apprised the Governor about the progress of the project. Anmol Nagpal, Project Director of Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd, said that a 20-km track would be laid by the end of the year. Madrid, May 31 : Nigerian international forward and Villarreal's own, Samuel Chukwueze, has hinted significantly at a potential departure from the club this summer. Chukwueze's performance this season has been his best yet for the club, tallying 13 goals and providing 11 assists in all competitions. Although his contract contains a release clause of 60 million euros, it is set to expire in June 2024. Consequently, the club may have to sell him at a much lower price this summer to avoid the risk of his free exit next year, a Xinhua report said. In a discussion with El Pais newspaper about his future, the forward expressed his enduring gratitude towards Villarreal president Fernando Roig. When questioned about proposals from other clubs, Chukwueze described them as "only background noise." He articulated his dream of playing in Europe with Villarreal once more. Nevertheless, with contract renewal talks making no progress, he expressed hope of not ending up without a contract. Further adding, he felt well-treated by the Roig family. "They're like my family, and the right thing would be to leave a good amount of money for this club," the forward noted. During the January transfer window, there were speculations about Chukwueze possibly moving to the Premier League, with Everton cited as a potential destination. His impressive form in Spain indicates there could be substantial interest from English clubs. Chennai, May 31 : Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian will soon visit New Delhi to meet the concerned authorities following the cancellation of recognition of three medical colleges in the state. The Minister, while speaking to reporters on Wednesday, said: "It is not appropriate to say that we will cancel recognition of medical colleges for minor grievances and if there are deficiencies, government will certainly rectify." The three medical colleges in Tamil Nadu that have lost recognition from the National Medical Commission are Government Stanley Medical College Hospital in Chennai, KAP Viswanathan Government Medical College in Tiruchi and Government Dharmpauri Medical College and Hospital, Dharmapuri. Several medical colleges across the country have lost their recognition in the past few months. This is primarily because these colleges did not follow the standards set by the National Medical Commission. Several colleges in many states were found to be not complying with the National Medical Commission standards and hence, lost recognition or are about to lose it. The Under Graduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) have penalised the three government medical colleges in Tamil Nadu for deficiencies in Aadhaar-based biometric attendance and footage of cameras installed in these colleges. After recognition of the three government medical colleges in Tamil Nadu was withdrawn, the Director of Medical Education of Tamil Nadu, Dr Shanthi Malar said that admission of fresh students to these colleges is not stopped. With the Tamil Nadu Health Minister visiting New Delhi and meeting the concerned officials, doctors are expecting that the impasse would end soon. Hong Kong, May 31 : A team of Chinese researchers has developed a new gene-editing tool that differs in approach to the most popular CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing therapy, saying the new method is ultra-precise, safe and has potential to treat some genetic diseases, the media reported on Wednesday. CRISPR-Cas9 acts as "molecular scissors" that can cut the two strands of DNA in the genome and relies on the cell's self-healing mechanism to repair. However, the new tool, known as "base editors", fixes specific sites in the genome without cutting the double helix, reports South China Morning Post. Their study was published in the peer-reviewed journal National Science Review that comes under the auspices of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. "It means we have established a system of our own, which is essential for clinical and commercial application," said Yang Hui, a researcher with the Centre for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The "base editing" has already become a major tool to treat genetic diseases. Last year, a patient in Britain with T-cell leukaemia was treated with a base-edited cell therapy - the world's first application of this technology. "As gene-editing tools continue to advance, more rare diseases will be able to go to clinical trials and be solved by scientists and biomedical companies," Hui said. The first base editors were proposed in 2016 by a team led by David Liu at Harvard University. The study is also important for the development of disease models in basic research and in the field of gene therapy, according to the authors. Base editors could correct four of the most common types of misspellings that occur in DNA, accounting for about 30 per cent of all known disease-causing DNA errors. "CRISPR-Cas9 is like a pair of scissors that can cut the DNA, which may result in the deletion or insertion of base pairs, while base editing is like a pencil and eraser that can erase one base and change it into another," said Yang. Lucknow, May 31 : A family of four was killed after an SUV hit their scooty and dragged it for over 100 metres here on Wednesday. The couple and their two children were on the scooty when it was hit by an SUV. According to eyewitnesses, the accident was so intense that the scooty got stuck with the four people under the car and was dragged for over 100 metres. The victims were pulled out when the car came to a halt after colliding with a tree. All the four were rushed to a hospital where the doctors declared them brought dead. The deceased scooty driver has been identified as Ram Singh, 35, from Sitapur, Deputy Commissioner of Police (North Zone) Qasim Abdi said. The other victims were his wife and two children. Chennai, May 31 : The Tamil Nadu Forest Department is monitoring the movement of rogue elephant 'Arikomban' who created havoc in Cumbum town in Theni district on May 27 and now had slipped into the deep forest. The Forest Department has constituted a 150-member team of officials drawn from various forest divisions to tranquilise, capture, and relocate the elephant. A control room has been set up in Cumbum town by the Forest Department to monitor the movement of the elephant. 'Arikomban', who had killed a few people and destroyed several homes and shops in Chinnakanal in Kerala's Idukki district was tranquilised, captured, and relocated to the deep forests in Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR), 100 km from Idukki on April 29. A radio collar was affixed on the elephant to monitor its movement. It was found that the elephant was moving around in deep forest and occasionally foraying into the Tamil Nadu areas. On May 27, the elephant suddenly surfaced in Cumbum town and ran amok among the people. It hit a two-wheeler on which private security firm employee, S. Palraj (57) was traveling. He sustained head injuries in the attack and succumbed on Tuesday. Tamil Nadu Forest Department immediately set up a special team including 150 forest personnel, 3 kumki elephants and 3 veterinarians to tranquilise and capture the elephant. However, the elephant moved 3 km away from the human settlement and signals from the radio collar indicated that it was moving inside the forest. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who was in Tokyo, announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the family of the deceased Palraj and that the elephant would be captured. The Forest Department also constituted a five-member tribal team who are experts in tracking the elephant and drawn from Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. The five tribals who have joined the team are Suresh, Sreekanth, Siva, Bomman, and Meen Kalan. Veterinarian, Dr. Rajesh is also accompanying the team. However, the animal is yet to be caught. It is still inside the forest near the Shanmukhanada river. Chennai, May 31 : The Greater Chennai Corporation is in the process of digitising the bookings at crematoriums and burial grounds after plenty of complaints of local strongmen and goons fleecing people coming to perform last rites of their near and dear ones. Sources told IANS that in certain wards, the councillors become helpless and local goons charge as much as Rs 30,000 to bury a body. This happened in K.V.A Thilak Nagar ward of Mogappiar area. Local people have complained several times to the corporation but when the officials reach the spot the strongmen fled only to return after the officials left the area. This has become a routine practice, thus leading to several people losing huge money for cremation and burial. Greater Chennai Corporation Mayor R. Priya has passed a resolution in the council that the bookings for the burial grounds and crematoriums would henceforth be done digitally. The Mayor told media persons that once the bookings are digitised, the entry of local strongmen would be checked and people can cremate or bury their dead without paying any money to local goons and strongmen. - Innovations in oceans, fisheries and health technology services are key shared priorities on the agenda - ST. JOHN'S, NL, May 31, 2023 /CNW/ - His Excellency Guni Th. Johannesson, President of Iceland and First Lady Eliza Reid will be in St. John's today during their state visit to Canada. Iceland - Coat of Arms (CNW Group/Embassy of Iceland) During their visit, President Johannesson will meet with business and community leaders in the oceans, fisheries, including a conversation moderated by CBC's Jane Adey on Iceland's "Cod Wars" and approaches to fisheries management. The President will also meet with leaders in the health technology sectors. "Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services is pleased to work with Business Iceland and the Embassy of Iceland to help solve common health-care challenges," said David Diamond, CEO of Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services. "We have helped participating Icelandic companies test their solutions within our organization and to gain a foothold in the North American health-care industry, leading to unique partnerships within Canada and the United States. These partnerships help support better health outcomes for our patients, clients, the health system and the provincial economy and support our Living Lab model of building a culture of innovation, stimulating innovative thinking and fostering research to improve health services and products." Below is an itinerary with details of the events of the Presidential visit. Times are indicated in Newfoundland Daylight Time (NDT). WEDNESDAY, MAY 31 2:30 - 3:00 p.m. Event: Meeting with Premier Andrew Furey. Location: Confederation Building Summary: Upon their arrival to the Confederation Building, His Excellency Guni Th. Johannesson, President of Iceland, and First Lady Eliza Reid will be greeted by Newfoundland & Labrador Premier Andrew Furey and his wife, Dr. Allison Furey. The dignitaries will hold a meeting to discuss shared values and goals regarding the blue economy and the green transition. ARRIVAL OPEN TO MEDIA 3:15 - 4:45 pm Event: Discussion about Innovation & Cooperation in Ocean Sector research & development Location: Marine Institute, Memorial University of Newfoundland Summary: This event will bring together leading companies and institutions from the maritime industries of both Iceland and Newfoundland & Labrador to showcase technological innovations and discuss how both sectors may collaborate more closely to advance shared goals. The President will also be signing guest books. OPEN TO MEDIA 3:15 - 4:45pm Event: Literature in Iceland and Newfoundland & Labrador: How Stories Shape Culture. Venue: The Rooms Summary: This intimate event will feature a rich roundtable conversation between the First Lady of Iceland, Ms. Eliza Reid and prominent writers from Newfoundland and Labrador. Questions for discussion will explore how books shape culture in both jurisdictions, how this is changing over time, and the role of writers in our increasingly digital societies. OPEN TO MEDIA 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Event: Sustainable Fisheries Management: A Conversation and Reception Location: The Rooms Summary: This evening event will feature an address by and conversation with the President of Iceland on the topic of sustainable fisheries management. The President will address fishing disputes between Iceland and Great Britain from the 1950s to the 1970s, the evolution of Iceland's fisheries management policies, and the extension of Iceland's fishing limits in the 20th century. This address and subsequent conversation, moderated by the CBC's Jane Adey, will be informed by the President's doctoral research on Iceland's "Cod Wars", and delve into Iceland and Newfoundland and Labrador's shared deep connection to this critical marine species. The President will also be signing guest books, and he and the First Lady will join attendees for networking mixers held before and after this discussion. OPEN TO MEDIA THURSDAY, JUNE 1 8:30 -10:00 am Event: A roundtable on Health Service Delivery and Innovation in NL and Iceland Venue: NL Health Innovation Acceleration Centre, 66 Pippy Place, St. Johns Summary: This interactive roundtable discussion and series of presentations will bring together public and private sector leaders and entrepreneurs from both NL and Iceland to discuss how technological innovation and increased collaboration between these two jurisdictions can improve health outcomes for patients. The event will also build on an existing collaboration between Iceland and Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services intended to assist Icelandic companies with testing and refining their health technology solutions in a Canadian context while offering NL health authorities new means for improving health care delivery for patients. Icelandic presentations will be made by Prescriby and Kerecis. OPEN TO MEDIA 9:00 10:00 am Event: Iceland's Role in Advancing the Green Transition Venue: St. John's Convention Centre Summary: Iceland's First Lady and executives from Landsvirkjun, Iceland's national power company, will speak about Iceland's transition into an economy powered by renewable energy and how Icelandic technologies and services can help Newfoundland and Labrador meet its own decarbonization goals. Following these remarks, the event will include a moderated roundtable discussion on advancing the green transition between NL energy companies and Icelandic participants. OPEN TO MEDIA Note for Media: To confirm attendance, media must RSVP in advance via IcelandinCanada@finnpartners.com . Media are asked to arrive 30 minutes before the event's start time. Photos taken by the official photographer will be made available upon request via IcelandinCanada@finnpartners.com . Follow the President of Iceland on Facebook and Twitter . SOURCE Embassy of Iceland Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/May2023/31/c3159.html New Delhi, May 31 : Calls to remove a video circulating online of a Canadian Sikh woman whose gruesome killing was caught on camera, have been picking up steam with netizens urging social media giants to remove the graphic content. Davinder Kaur, 43, was stabbed to death by her estranged husband Nav Nishan Singh in Sparrow Park, Brampton, on May 19. Emergency crews found the mother of four with "obvious signs of trauma", who died on the spot despite attempts by paramedics to save her life. Singh, who was arrested a short distance from the crime scene, has been charged with first-degree murder. "Truly disturbing", professor and human rights activist Madhu Purnima Kishwar tweeted after the video went viral. Singh hurled profanities at Kaur and reportedly took video of her dying moments. The video shows her bleeding profusely in a creek after being attacked. "Her (Kaur's) final moments of pure suffering have been shared around the world on social media for all to see and cringe in horror to," Ashis Basu, a Twitter user, wrote "I am outraged that there is a video circulating on Twitter of Davinder Kaur in her dying moments in Brampton Park. Under no circumstances should this video be put out or watched or retweeted," Amardeep Kaur, associated with Toronto University, said on Twitter. Amardeep said she repeatedly raised a concern with Twitter but the social media giant refused to take down the videos or even add sensitive content warning. "I tried again in the "harassed/ intimidated with violence" category -- on note that the video celebrates and praises violent acts... Twitter still chose not to remove or even put a sensitive warning on them. It is such a horrific violation to the women that we can't get these brutal videos down," an anguished Amardeep said. Twitter's policy on deceased individuals prohibits sharing excessively gruesome images or videos, or sharing media depicting a deceased individual for sadistic purposes. It further says that sharing images or videos of a deceased individual can "cause serious distress to the deceased's family and can also negatively impact the well-being of others who view this content". "It is a huge disservice to them and their families and it also causes such a huge desensitisation toward violence against women," Ananya, an Illustrator for Teen Vogue, said. Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown told Global News that he is aware of the "harrowing video". "It's very disappointing that a video as heinous as that would be available for viewing. I know the police took this very seriously -- they made their best efforts to have the video removed," he said. While the news outlet reached out to both Twitter and Facebook, there was no response. Kaur, according to her family, had been contemplating divorce from Singh who left her six months ago. The two had been married for more than 20 years and had four children together with three living in Brampton and one in India. (Meenakshi Iyer can be reached at meenakshi.i@ians.in) Kochi, May 31 : The Kerala High Court on Wednesday dismissed a public interest litigation petition filed by leading industrialist Sabu M. Jacob, seeking relocation of rogue elephant 'Arikomban' back to Kerala. Causing unrest among the people at Chinnakanal in Idukki district, the jumbo was, on April 29, tranquilised, fixed with a radio collar, and then relocated to Periyar Tiger Reserve. But the present location of 'Arikomban' is at Cumbum in Tamil Nadu's Theni and it gave a scare to the local residents a few days back and now moved into the forest area there. On Wednesday, a division bench of the court dismissed the PIL, pointing out that since the Tamil Nadu government has said it will take 'Arikomban' into the deep forest, the petitioner's contention that the tusker has to be brought back to Kerala is irrelevant. "If the Tamil Nadu government has graciously taken it, why interfere with it? You don't say in the plea, why it has to be brought in Kerala?" the bench asked orally. It further questioned the petitioner if he had any case that the people of Tamil Nadu are treating the animal with any cruelty. "What really is the intent of this litigation, I doubt it. They are facing more fear, our fear is lessened," the Court said. The PIL also sought proper medical care for the rogue elephant as well as adoption of scientific methods that cause minimum trauma while rehabilitating and relocating the tusker when captured and tranquilised. In this regard, the bench opined that the petitioner did not have any bona fide grounds and lacked factual averments. "What is your expertise to get into this? What is the expertise of the court to deal with the situation in Tamil Nadu? What do you think the Madras High Court is not capable of doing so? If you have any problem you or any other, you may approach the Madras High Court. We have doubts about the bona fides of your prayer. As in the person who made the prayers. Are you saying the injuries on the trunk, were caused by the acts of the Tamil Nadu government and people?" the bench asked. Jacob is the chief coordinator of charitable society 'Twenty-20 Association' as well as the President of the Twenty-20 Party and the Managing Director of Kitex Garments. He pointed out that the relocation of the tusker to the Periyar Tiger Reserve did not result in any meaningful solution to the problem as the tusker entered areas of human habitation in Tamil Nadu. Guwahati, May 31 : The Assam government has planned to set up procurement facilities across the state to purchase mustard seeds from farmers at a fixed minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 5,450 per quintal, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Wednesday that mustard growers can sell their products at 101 designated mustard procurement locations. He said this while speaking to reporters at Janata Bhawan here. "After buying rice, we have now taken another initiative to buy mustard," Sarma said. "I request all mustard farmers to sell their goods in government-run marketplaces. The government will sell the mustard it purchases to National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED)." According to Sarma, the state government will provide NAFED with the bank account numbers of the farmers from whom the government would purchase the mustard. "Within three working days of the sale of their goods, the benefiting farmers will receive the MSP of Rs 5,450 per quintal straight into their bank accounts. This is a measure to guarantee the wellbeing of state farmers. With this initiative, we hope to purchase 45 lakh metric tonnes of mustard," the Chief Minister said. Sarma added that the state's dairy producers will soon be able to apply for government assistance. Dairy farmers will receive a subsidy of Rs 5 for every litre of milk they produce. The Assam State Agricultural Board, Assam Food and Civil Supplies Corporation, and NAFED, the central agency, will handle the purchase. Mumbai, May 31 : Hours after the opposition Nationalist Congress Party met the Mumbai Police Commissioner on the issue, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde directed the Chief Secretary to take action against a couple of websites which published offensive articles against the legendary social reformer Savitribai Phule, here on Wednesday. An official said that the article has created a furore with many political parties and social organisations raising serious objections to the 'derogatory' references to the pioneer of women's education, Savitribai Phule. "Taking cognizance of these objections, the CM has directed the Chief Secretary to probe the content of the website and take strict action if there is any objectionable material found in the article. He has also warned that the government will not spare those who indulge in offensive language while writing about great icons," said the official. The developments came barely hours after a high-level NCP delegation called on Mumbai Commissioner of Police (CP) Vivek Phansalkar and demanded stringent action against two websites for publishing the articles with vulgar references to Savitribai Phule. The delegation, comprising state NCP President Jayant Patil, Leader of Opposition Ajit Pawar, senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal, MP Sunil Tatkare and others submitted a two-page memorandum to the CP, listing the names of the websites and their offensive remarks. The memorandum said that a person claiming to be some 'Bharadwaj' had made the scurrilous remarks against Savitribai (1831-1897) - considered the pioneer of women's education from the mid-1850s - who is revered in the state and country. "The comments are so low that I can't mention them and feel embarrassed even to talk about it... We have requested the police to immediately book the two websites, the authors and also remove the article from all media platforms," an irate Pawar said. Earlier, Bhujbal had shot off a letter to the CM and the CP bringing to their notice the foul language used against Savitribai in its January 2022 articles, among other things, questioning her credentials as a teacher. He said that the attempts to malign the legendary educator was "highly condemnable, outrageous and painful", with the websites seeking to rearrange and destroy Indian history. The articles have also stirred a raging debate on social media with many slamming the authors for the vituperative references and outrageous insinuations against the iconic social reformer, and questioning her historical contributions as an academic trail-blazer. Chennai, May 31 : The Tamil Nadu Police's elite 'Q' Branch will investigate the fake passport racket cases in the state which came to light after three persons were arrested in Chennai, officials said on Wednesday. Mohammed Sheikh Illyas, 54, was arrested on May 20 and on interrogation, revealed the details of his accomplices, N. Shivakumar, 41, of Tiruvattiyur and M. Mohammed Bukhari, 42, of Royapetah in Chennai. The three were arrested following a tip-off from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). Police said that Illyas was the kingpin of the gang and has been running the racket for the past 15 years. The DRI stumbled upon the passport racket after Illyas was arrested in Chennai airport for smuggling gold and on examining his passport, it was found to be fake. According to the police , Illyas used to collect expired passports at the rate of Rs 1,500 to Rs 5,000, tore out the used pages, and replaced them with new pages. The 'Q' Branch will probe whether these people had supplied such fake passports to wanted terror groups and whether anti-nationals have traveled abroad using such fake passports. The also gang used to change the unique encrypted serial numbers using chemicals procured from online stores and then replace them with different numbers. The 'Q' Branch, according to sources in the state police headquarters, would be probing the number of passports the gang had made in recent years. Interrogation of the three some have already given police several inputs regarding the agents and sub-agents employed by these people across Tamil Nadu. The police are also probing the number of expired passports these groups have collected and all those who have sold the passports. The 'Q' Branch is probing the terror angle as well as the money raised by the group through dubious means to procure these expired passports. Sources in the police told IANS that the arrest of the three was only the tip of the iceberg and a detailed and micro-level probe is being conducted to bring all the culprits to book. New Delhi, May 31 : The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has told the Delhi High Court that it was due to a technical glitch on its portal that the applications of several aircraft lessors of cash-strapped Go First airline for de-registration of their aircraft were shown as "rejected". On May 26, aircraft lessors - Pembroke Aircraft Leasing 11 Ltd, SMBC Aviation Capital Ltd, Accipiter Investments Aircraft 2 Ltd and EOS Aviation 12 (Ireland) Ltd - had moved the high court seeking to de-register their aircraft currently on lease with Go First. In a major blow to its passengers, the low-cost airline stopped flying on May 3 and is undergoing voluntary insolvency resolution proceedings before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). The DGCA said it was not processing such requests after a moratorium on financial obligations and transfer of assets of the crisis-hit airline post insolvency resolution proceedings. "Why is there a distinction? There are 7-8 petitions and each one of them has a different response. Why so?" Justice Tara Vitasta Ganju asked the aviation regulator's counsel Anjana Gosain as to why different responses were sent to different lessors on repossession requests. The court further asked the counsel to produce the documents in relation to each petitioner lessor when it will next consider the case on June 1. Gosain apprised the court that when lessors send deregistration requests to the regulator, it is done in five working days and that in this case, no application has been rejected. "There was a glitch in the portal due to which it showed that the applications have been rejected," she said. "They have made the applications on the portal on May 4. Unfortunately, a glitch came. When they opened on May 12, it showed them to be rejected," she submitted. "Will produce the entire list of 54 applications including those of the petitioners and others," Gosain told the court. During the previous hearing, the lessors had said it is "illegitimate" of the DGCA to deny deregistration. The lessors' contention is that Go First has no right to use their aircraft as the leases concerning them have been terminated. The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal on May 22 upheld the insolvency proceedings against Go First in a setback to efforts of its lessors to repossess their aircraft. Upholding the NCLT's May 10 order, the appeals tribunal disposed of the lessors' petition and asked them to file an appeal before the NCLT. The airline had approached the NCLT "due to the ever-increasing number of failing engines supplied by Pratt & Whitney's International Aero Engines, which has resulted in Go First (airline brand) having to ground 25 aircraft (equivalent to approximately 50 per cent of its Airbus A320neo aircraft fleet) as of May 1, 2023". According to the lessors' counsel, they had approached the civil aviation authorities to deregister their aircraft, but the request was denied. They said the DGCA had not contacted them, but after checking the status of their applications on the regulator's website, they discovered their petitions had been turned down. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for one of the lessors, had said the aircraft was its property and an interim resolution professional (IRP) has no power to take over assets of a third party. Senior advocate Dayan Krishnan, representing EOS Aviation 12 (Ireland) Ltd, had said the NCLAT cannot deal with the issue of deregistration of aircraft and the remedy lies under Article 226 of the Constitution as the issue is between the lessor and the DGCA. "The percentage of grounded aircraft due to Pratt & Whitney's faulty engines has grown from 7 per cent in December 2019 to 31 per cent in December 2020 to 50 per cent in December 2022. This is despite Pratt & Whitney making several ongoing assurances over the years, which it has repeatedly failed to meet," Go Airlines had said. According to Go Airlines, it had been forced to apply to the NCLT after Pratt & Whitney, the exclusive engine supplier for its Airbus A320neo aircraft fleet, refused to comply with an award issued by an emergency arbitrator appointed in accordance with the 2016 Arbitration Rules of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC). The respondents in the instant case include Union of India and the DGCA. New Delhi, May 31 : The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday raided 25 locations in three states in connection with the Popular Front of India (PFI) conspiracy to radicalise and train its cadres and members for carrying out acts of terror and violence. The NIA official said that searches were conducted at the premises of suspects in Katihar district of Bihar; Dakshina Kannada, and Shimoga districts of Karnataka; and Kasaragod, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram districts of Kerala. "A slew of digital devices, including Amobile phones, hard disk, SIM cards, pen-drives, data cards, incriminating documents and materials related to the banned organisation were seized during the raids. Indian currency of the face value of Rs. 17,50,100/- has also been seized," said the official.A A The NIA said that so far, a total of 85 locations have been raided during investigations of the case. A "Acting on a tip-off, Bihar police had carried out a raid at the rented premises of one Athar Parvez on July 11, 2022, and had seized incriminating articles related to PFI includingA a document titled "India 2047 Towards Rule of Islamic India, Internal Document: Not for circulation". Athar Parvej was arrested, along Md. Jalaluddin Khan, Arman Malick alias Imteyaz AnwerA and Nooruddin Zangi alias Advocate Nooruddin," said the official.A The NIA official said that a chargesheet was filed by the NIA against all the accused on January 7, 2023.A Later on, ten more accused were arrested for promoting the unlawful and anti-national activities of PFI and channelising illegal funds from abroad to the PFI members/accused persons in the instant case. In the course of its investigation, NIA also found that multiple channels were being operated on popular video platforms by persons suspected to be associated with PFI. These channels were distributing content aimed at inciting communalA violence and terror in India. The suspects, having international links, were also indulging in propagation of PFI ideology using social media. Further investigations in the matter are on. IANS Atk/ Kolkata: Sujay Krishna Bhadra alias 'Kalighater Kaku' being produced at a local court by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials, in Kolkata, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. (Photo:Kuntal Chakrabarty/IANS) Image Source: IANS News Kolkata: Sujay Krishna Bhadra alias 'Kalighater Kaku' being produced at a local court by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials, in Kolkata, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. (Photo:Kuntal Chakrabarty/IANS) Image Source: IANS News Kolkata, May 31 : Trinamool Congress confidant Sujay Krishna Bhadra a.k.a. 'Kalighater Kaku' (Uncle of Kalighat), who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the alleged multi-crore teacher recruitment scam on Tuesday night, was remanded to 14-day ED custody by a special PMLA court here on Wednesday. The ED counsel made some serious revelations in the court on Wednesday, claiming that another accused and expelled youth Trinamool leader Kuntal Ghosh gave Rs 70 lakh to Bhadra as collection money for the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) in 2014. Out of that amount, Rs 10 lakh was given by Ghosh to former West Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee following an instruction from Bhadra, the ED counsel claimed. Both Partha Chatterjee and Kuntal Ghosh are currently in judicial custody for their alleged involvement in the case. The ED counsel also claimed that Bhadra had a close nexus with Trinamool legislator and former Chairman of the West Bengal Board of Primary Education (WBBPE), Manik Bhattacharya, who is also in judicial custody now along with his wife and son in connection with the same case. The central agency claimed that the investigating officers have recovered several WhatsApp chats establishing links between Bhadra and Bhattacharya. The ED counsel also referred to Rahul Bera, a civic volunteer, who was allegedly instructed by Bhadra to delete all the electronic data related to the case. ED sources said that Bera will soon be summoned to the agency office, where he will be questioned together with Bhadra. The sources also claimed that four types of electronic data -- mobile data, system acquisition, physical acquisition and file acquisition -- were deleted which were later retrieved by the ED. After hearing the arguments, the judge remanded Bhadra to ED custody till June 14. New Delhi, May 31 : With economic growth estimated at 7.2 per cent for 2022-23, more than the advanced estimates of 7 per cent, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed satisfaction over the GDP growth figures. "The 2022-23 GDP growth figures underscore the resilience of the Indian economy amid global challenges," he tweeted. He added that "this robust performance along with overall optimism and compelling macro-economic indicators exemplify the promising trajectory of our economy and the tenacity of our people". Though the GDP growth of 7.2 per cent for 2022-23 is higher than the advanced estimates, it is much lower than the 9.1 per cent growth seen in 2021-22. New Delhi, May 31 : The traders' associations of Delhi have strongly opposed the request made by the Monitoring Committee on sealing to the Supreme Court. The committee seeks to conduct additional inspections in the national capital to enforce sealing, which could potentially lead to the arbitrary sealing of businesses. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Secretary General of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), Praveen Khandelwal, and state president Vipin Ahuja, along with 15 leading business leaders of Delhi, expressed their concern. They emphasised that at a time when the new master plan of Delhi, which is expected to address all issues related to the city's development over the past 15 years, is about to be introduced, the top court-appointed Monitoring Committee's actions would be extremely unfair and detrimental to the interests of Delhi's traders. CAIT plans to hold a meeting of Delhi's traders to discuss the issue. The trade leaders also called on the Chief Minister of Delhi and the Mayor of the Municipal Corporation to promptly address the matter and take the necessary steps. "The retirement age of Supreme Court judges is 65 years, while the members of the monitoring committee are almost 70 years old. Therefore, this monitoring committee should be dissolved immediately by the court. Since a judicial committee has already been constituted by the court, there is no justification for the existence of the monitoring committee," stated the CAIT leaders. They further highlighted that Delhi's businesses have already suffered due to sealing, with thousands of shops being closed for years. CAIT has demanded the announcement of an amnesty scheme with a cut-off date to save Delhi's businesses from sealing. They also stated that any new laws or measures should only apply prospectively, except for actions regarding encroachments on government land, for which immediate and firm action should be taken, and the traders have no objections. Date, KO time and TV coverage CONCACAF Champions League final, Wednesday June 1st, Kick-off 3am Suggested bets Over 2.5 goals Both teams to score What is the CONCACAF Champions League? The CONCACAF Champions League features teams from Mexico, USA, Honduras, Costa Rica, Jamaica and other sides in the North, Central America and Caribbean region. Like the Champions League, it follows a group format to establish who qualifies for the knockout stages, which start with a round of 16. Every knockout round is a two-legged tie, including the final. Mexican sides have won the competition 38 times, with MLS teams lifting the trophy just three times. Club Leon vs Los Angeles FC verdict The 2023 CONCACAF Champions League final could be one of the most interesting ones yet. It pits Mexico against the USA once again, but the US could be getting the upper hand. It's a rerun of the 2020 final when Club Leon of Mexico beat Los Angeles FC 2-0 on home soil. Back in the States, LAFC ran out comfortable 3-0 winners to progress. Mexican sides had won 16 straight Champions League finals dating back to a sensational double for Costa Rican sides in 2004 and 2005. However, MLS broke that stranglehold in 2022. Seattle Sounders drew 2-2 in Mexico against Pumas UNAM before winning the home leg. LAFC also have a home advantage this year. Before 2018, MLS teams had a 2-18 record in two-legged ties against Mexican opposition. Since then, the American sides have gone 12-17 and have performed better in the last two seasons. If any side can confirm that the MLS is almost on par, it's LAFC. They are, arguably, the most impressive team the league has ever produced. Since they arrived in 2018, no club has scored more goals or picked up more points than Steve Cherundolo's men. They're also unbeaten on their travels in the competition this season, although those matches did come against MLS teams and a Costa Rican side, which American teams typically dominate. In 2020, they lost both of their trips to Mexico, but this is a better team. Leon are by no means MX's most feared side, finishing six in the most recent standings. They aren't even a CONCACAF regular with a total absence between 2014 and 2020. They're even winless in five against MLS sides, drawing at home with Seattle and Toronto. LAFC would potentially settle for a one-goal defeat but they're capable of getting a result and scoring goals. We expect an attacking game with both sides contributing to the scoring. The article CONCACAF Champions League final tips: Club Leon and LAFC to find the net in first leg appeared first on Planetsport.com. Bhopal, May 31 : The Congress on Wednesday said it will approach Madhya Pradesh High Court to seek its intervention over alleged financial irregularities in 'Mahakal Lok' corridor of Ujjain. The opposition also raised question on Ujjain district collector Kumar Purusottam, saying the officer has acted like "puppet of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan." While addressing a Press conference at party headquarters in Bhopal, Congress MLA Sajjan Singh Verma and Shobha Oza, who were among the seven opposition leaders who visited Mahakal Lok corridor on Tuesday, levelled serious allegations on the ruling BJP. The Congress leaders claimed China's local material was used for building the statues of 'Saptarshi'. "Chinese net was used in Saptarshi statues, and other material used for the same were also not the best quality. The colour of remaining statues has also faded. In the project, there was provision to set up a lab to check the quality of materials used for building statues, but it wasn't established and the project was inaugurated. Statutes installed there are not more than Rs 3 lakh, but MP government has paid Rs 10-12 lakh for each statue," Sajjan Singh Verma said. He further claimed damaged statues were kept in a hidden place and were being redeveloped. "At one side CM Chouhan said damaged statues will be replaced with new one, but we have found that damaged statues were being redeveloped at hidden place. We are levelling questions on basis of our findings during the inspection and challenge the CM Chouhan and Bhupendra Singh (State Urban Development Minister) to prove us wrong," Verma added. When asked why the Congress is demanding judicial inquiry into the matter when Ujjain district collector Kumar Purusottam has said that 'statues collapsed due to gusty wind and there is no need of any investigation, Shobha Oza and Sajjan Verma said, "Ujjain collector should have maintained some dignity of his post, but he made this statement, it shows, he is acting like a puppet of CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan. His (Collector) role is also suspected and we would demand an investigation." However, Urban Development Minister Bhupendra Singh ruled out the Congress' allegations and accused the opposition of doing politics on religious issue. "There is no corruption in 'Mahakal Lok' corridor project. Congress is doing dirty politics. We did work honestly and with high standards. Don't hurt the religious sentiments of the people, this has been their (Congress) character. If they have evidence of corruption, then show it to the people or apologise," Singh said. The Minister further said that over 100 Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP) statues were made at a cost of Rs 7.5 crore and artwork carried out on them "was only possible on such statues" and cited the examples of Kingdom of Dreams in Gurugram, Haryana, the Akshardham temple in Delhi and other other projects where FRP statues were used. "Mahakal Lok project was taken considering the religious significance it holds in Ujjain. The work was carried out in high standards...The art is only possible on these statues. It takes a lot of time on statues made of other material and even then You can't make that art. The agency which made this has a three-year contract and they will replace the statues. The Commissioner (Ujjain) has also given the report that due to high wind speeds, several buildings and trees had fallen in the area," Singh added. Notably, six out of the seven idols of 'Saptarishis' installed at the Mahakal Lok corridor, developed on the Mahakaleshwar temple premises collapsed and suffered damages due to gusty winds. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the Mahakal Lok corridor project on October 11 last year. Measuring more than 900 metres in length, the corridor has around 108 aesthetically ornate pillars made of intricately-carved sandstones that depict the Anand Tandav Swaroop (a form of dance of Lord Shiva), 200 statues and murals of Lord Shiva and goddess Shakti. Ujjain's Congress MLA Mahesh Parmar, talking to IANS said, "I had filed a complaint with the Lokayukta and notices were issued. But following that nothing much happened in that case, if an investigation was conducted on the basis of my complaint then today the officials involved in this corruption would have been investigated. Bhagwan Mahakal will not forgive these sinners, justice will be brought upon them." Patna, May 31 : A BJP leader and his family in Bihar's Gaya had a narrow escape after four bombs were thrown on his house early on Wednesday, police said. BJP leader Santosh Gupta and his family members were sleeping in their house in Dobhi area when two attackers on a bike came and threw four bombs, one after the other, at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday. However, none of them came close to Gupta or his family. This was the second attack on the BJP leader in the past one year. The attackers were caught in the CCTV camera covering their faces with hankies. The local police also seized two live bombs as well. "I strongly suspect that a strongman named Imran is behind the attack. He is conspiring to kill me. We escaped unhurt only because they missed the target," Gupta alleged. "Four bombs were thrown the house of a BJP leader in Kamrauni village under Dobhi police station. We have also recovered two live bombs and defused them. Efforts are on to identify the accused on the basis of CCTV footage. Raids are on to nab the accused," Additional SP-cum-DSP of Sherghati range, K. Ramdas said. New Delhi, May 31 : The Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to quash a CBI case against a former Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) official for allegedly disclosing secret information in his book "India's External Intelligence - Secrets of Research and Analysis Wing". A single-judge bench of Justice Mukta Gupta was hearing a petition by Major General V.K. Singh (retd), a former joint secretary of India's external spy agency, wanting to quash the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) case against him under the Official Secrets Act. Petitioner's book was published five years after his retirement from service in June 2002. A year later (2008), an FIR was registered against him. In the present case, a complaint was filed by Deputy Secretary, Cabinet Secretariat with the CBI seeking legal action against the petitioner under the provisions of the Officials Secrets Act. The court said that determining what compromises national security cannot be decided by courts and that it was up to the trial to determine if the book's discoveries were likely to impair the sovereignty, integrity, or security of the nation. "It would be a matter of trial after the witnesses are examined to see whether the revelations by the petitioner in his book is likely to affect the sovereignty and integrity of India and/or the security of the state. In view of the discussion aforesaid, this Court finds no merit in the petition. Petition and application are dismissed," it said. The petitioner argued that the claim that doing so would compromise the security and sovereignty of the nation was completely unjustified as the purpose of writing the book was to draw attention to problems with lack of accountability and corruption in RAW. However, it was CBI's contention that names of officers, location of the places and recommendations of the Group of Ministers (GOM) etc. were used in the book. The court noted that the petitioner reproduced the recommendations of the GOM verbatim and that he has, in another matter, himself said similar revelations made by two other authors and publishers amounted to an offence under the Official Secrets Act. "This court ...has noted that what prejudices the national security cannot be decided by the courts. Even in the present case, the recommendations of the GOM, which were deleted from publication, have been reproduced verbatim by the petitioner," the court said. "It may also be noted that the petitioner himself was of the opinion that similar revelations by the two other authors and publishers amounted to an offence under the Official Secrets Act and thus filed complaint," it added. New Delhi, May 31 : Navnit Nakra, CEO of OnePlus India, has moved on from the global technology brand to follow his passion, the company confirmed on Wednesday. In 2021, the smartphone maker announced the elevation of Nakra, then Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Sales in India, as its India CEO and Head of the OnePlus India region. In a statement shared with IANS, the company thanked Nakra for his contribution towards OnePlus India. "He has played an instrumental role in managing the India business over the last three years and wish him best of luck for his future endeavours," the company said in the statement. "OnePlus is committed towards India as a region and our Community members. We will continue to strengthen our focus in India," the company added. In a letter sent by Nakra to the OnePlus community, accessed by IANS, he said that after much thought, "I have decided to move on from OnePlus. I intend to follow my passion and spend some quality time with my family." "It has been a pleasure to have been a part of our amazing Community --- even though I am no longer a part of the business team, I hope you all would give me the privilege of being a part of the OnePlus Community," Nakra added. Nakra spearheaded the company's business operations and overall strategy for the India region. His journey with OnePlus India began in February 2020 as the Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, wherein he drove the corporate strategy plans as well as key strategic partnerships. He went on to also oversee the sales operations of the company in the region. New Delhi, May 31 : A 17-year-old boy was taken into custody after a minor, who had gone for routine medical checkup at a hospital at east Delhi, was found seven months pregnant, a Delhi Police official said on Wednesday. A senior police official said that on Monday, a police control room call was received from the Lal Bahadur Shastri hospital regarding a 15-year-old minor who was found to be pregnant following which a police team was dispatched. "The minor girl, a resident of Murshibabad in West Bengal, told police that she married the 17-year-old boy in West Bengal on August 25 last year and they had consensual sexual relations and as a result, she got pregnant," said the official. In January, they both came to Delhi and started living in a rented accommodation at West Jawahar Park near Laxmi Nagar area. "Sakhi centre was also informed by the doctors and after her counselling and medical examination, a case under section 376 (2) (n) (rape) of the IPC and POCSO Act was registered at the Laxmi Nagar police station," said the official. "The victim had been kept at one stop centre at LBS hospital and the juvenile was apprehended and produced before Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) on Tuesday. The JJB board released the accused on undertaking and fixed the next date of hearing for age verification," the official added. New Delhi, May 31 : The working mechanism for consultation and coordination on India-China Border affairs (WMCC) on Wednesday reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Western Sector of the India-China border areas and discussed proposals for disengagement in remaining areas in a frank and open manner. The 27th meeting of the WMCC was attended by the Joint Secretary (East Asia) from the External Affairs Ministry, who led the Indian delegation. During the in-person meeting held in Delhi, both sides noted that restoration of peace and tranquility will create conditions for normalising bilateral relations. In order to achieve this objective, in accordance with existing bilateral agreements and protocols, the two sides agreed to hold the next (19th) round of senior commanders meeting at an early date. The two sides also agreed to continue discussions through military and diplomatic channels. The Chinese delegation was led by the director general of boundary and oceanic affairs in the department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Patna, May 31 : The husband of ward councillor in Bihar's Begusarai and his two sons were arrested on Wednesday on charges of attempt to rape, physical assault and chopping off the hair of the victim, police said. A woman of ward number 2 of Bhakhri locality was kidnapped by Shams Tabrez and his men on May 30 and they tried to rape her. They also brutally beat and chopped off her hair. The victim registered an FIR against them in Bhakhri police station and the accused were arrested. The victim was married to a person in Rajasthan but she returned to her native place, and allegedly had an affair with person of the area and the latter's wife complained to the ward councillor. After this, Shams Tabrez went to the house of victim and took her away to his own place and attempted to rape her. He also asked his men to chop her hair as well. "We have registered an FIR against Shams Tabrez and arrested him. We have also arrested his two sons who were also involved in misbehaving and chopping her hair," Begusarai's Superintendent of Police Yogendra Kumar said. Patna May 31 : A family, protesting the murder of a member, opted for a unique style of agitation, bringing an elephant, horse, and camel to the Jakkanpur police station on Wednesday afternoon. They protested for three hours before ASP, Sadar Kamya Mishra reached the spot and assured the victim's family of action against the accused as well as against police personnel who misbehaved with the deceased's son. The protest was triggered after the victim Munna Rai's son named Mayank Kumar, an MBBS student in West Bengal, reached the Jakkanpur police station and sought action against the accused, but SHO's reader Sudhansu Kumar allegedly slapped him and misbehaved with him. Rai was shot at by his rivals on April 7. After battling for his life for 12 days, he succumbed in the hospital on April 19. An FIR has been registered in this matter but Patna police failed to arrest any accused so far. Following the misbehaviour, Mayank Kumar called his relatives and revealed the humiliation he had undergone. They came with an elephant, camel and horse to protest against the act of cops. "We are scanning the CCTV cameras of the police station to ascertain the alleged misbehaviour that took place by Sudhanshu Kumar. Action will be taken against him after his guilt will be proven. We are making efforts to arrest the accused as well," the ASP said. Imphal, May 31 : Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Wednesday appealed to the people not to block roads and return the looted arms to the nearest security posts, "otherwise the government will take strict action as per law". Singh, in his appeal, said that at a large number of locations, the people are violating curfew restrictions and blocking roads, causing immense obstacles to free movement of relief materials for inmates in relief camps. The road blocks also hindered transportation and movement of security personnel to meet security threats from illegal armed groups in conflict areas in foothills and interior locations of the state, he said. The Chief Minister said that such roadblocks are increasing the hardship of our already traumatised people in relief camps, including pregnant women and young children, by halting movement of health personnel, medicine, food, milk and water meant for them. "In order to save lives and property of innocent civilians, and to assuage the hardship faced in relief camps, I appeal to the people of Manipur not to cause roadblocks and hindrances on free movement of security personnel and relief materials," Singh said. He urged "all persons concerned" to return and surrender the arms and ammunition which have been snatched from armed police battalions, and deposit them in police stations at the earliest. "Legal action as per the Arms Act 1959 would be taken in case any person is found to be in unauthorised and illegal possession of arms and ammunition during combing operations by security personnel, or otherwise," the Chief Minister stated. Imphal, May 31 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a high-level security review meeting here on Wednesday night and directed heads of all security agencies to take stern and swift actions against armed miscreants to prevent violence and recover looted weapons to bring back normalcy in Manipur at the earliest. Shah on Wednesday visited two more violence-hit districts -- Tengnoupal and Kangpokpi -- and held a series of peace talks with the leaders of various civil society organisations, influential leaders, and security officials. The Home Minister, who was scheduled to leave Imphal on Wednesday night, would stay back in the strife-torn state and may return to New Delhi on Thursday. In the high-level meeting at Raj Bhavan, where Governor Anusuiya Uikey, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai and top police, paramilitary, and armed forces officials were present, he reviewed the security arrangements taken up by the various security forces to bring normalcy to the state. Shah also visited various relief camps in Imphal, Tengnoupal, and Kangpokpi where people of both Meitei, Kuki and other communities are sheltered since the ethnic violence began in Manipur on May 3. He assured that supply of essential items in hill areas and helicopter services for emergency needs in Churachandpur, Moreh and Kangpokpi would be ensured. The Home Minister tweeted: "Visited a relief camp in Kangpokpi and met the Kuki community members there. We are committed to restoring peace in Manipur as early as possible and ensuring their return to their homes. "In Imphal, visited a relief camp where the members of the Meitei community are residing. Our resolve remains focused on leading Manipur back to the track of peace and harmony once again and their return to their homes at the earliest". Shah arrived in Imphal on Monday night and held over two dozen meetings intended to curb the ethnic violence that has ravaged the state since May 3, leaving at least 75 dead and over 300 injured. Moreh, 110 km from Imphal, is one of the oldest international trade points in India along the border with Myanmar, with the city of Tamu on the other side. The India-Myanmar Friendship Bridge connects Moreh to Kalewa in Myanmar's Sagaing Division. Members of many communities, including Tamils, Nepalis, Biharis, Rajasthanis, Bengalis, Punjabis, besides Meitei and Kuki, had been living together here for many years but after the violence began, thousands left it and took shelter in several areas, including inside Myanmar, after their houses were set afire. The border town is one of the most affected areas in the recent ethnic hostilities. During his visit to the two districts, Shah met the affected families and also attended peace talks. Meanwhile, sporadic firing between security forces and suspected militants were reported from different districts. An exchange of fire took place at Litanpokpi village in Imphal East district, leaving a civilian injured in the gun battle. A gunfight between militants and security forces was also reported from Sugnu in Kakching district on Tuesday night. As a freshman at Biola University, Grace Brannon (nee Kim), 28, encountered many Korean and Korean American women with the same first name. When several of them became part of the same friend group, they started to call themselves Grace 1, Grace 2, and Grace 3. This was like an inside joke among our friend group. It was funny, Brannon said. They knew a lot of other Graces too. The ubiquity of the name Grace among predominantly East Asian and East Asian American women has been both anecdotally remarked upon and at times given larger cultural attention. When I shared social media posts asking to connect with Asian women named Grace for this story, one person tweeted, I know fifty. Another said that CT would need 3 issues and a podcast to adequately represent the plethora of Graces in Asian American communities. In 2005, filmmaker Grace Lee even made a documentary as a way to uncover the stereotypes and social expectations people had for women bearing, in this case, both her first and last name. In the US, most of the Graces I know are Chinese or Korean, said Grace Chan McKibben, 55, the executive director of the Coalition for a Better Chinese American Community in Chicago. She moved to America from Hong Kong in high school. My grandma, aunt, and sister-in-law are all named Grace, she added. Whats so amazing about the name Grace? Why do so many Asian Christian women in North America have this name? Perhaps the name represents a believers cry while living in a foreign land, and a proclamation of thanksgiving for receiving undeserved kindness from God. Divine intervention Grace comes from the Latin word gratia and was not particularly common in the English-speaking world until the 17th century, when the Puritans began naming their children virtue names like Felicity and Prudence. More recently, Grace peaked in the US in 2004 when it ranked 13th on the Social Security Administrations list of female baby names. Last year, it was No. 35. In Canada, Grace ranked 31st in a list of most popular female baby names in 2020. Little seems to have changed since the Grace Lee documentary. The name is still going strong today in Korean and Chinese immigrant circles. As one Harvard social sciences researcher discovered, Grace is five times more popular than most names among Chinese Americans. The name was also common among the wartime generation of Japanese Americans. During World War II, 636 women of Japanese descent named Grace were incarcerated by the US. Many of them have since spoken up about their horrific experiences in these prison camps as a way of reclaiming their stories. Grace Oshita, a San Francisco native, has traveled around Salt Lake City for 40 years to talk about her incarceration in California and Utah, and Grace Amemiya, who was detained at 21 years old and spent a year in an Arizona camp, chose to radiate grace and forgiveness toward the American government. Article continues below In other words, move over, Connie: Grace is the real Asian baby name trend. But whereas the proliferation of Connie traces back to one very famous journalist, the nine Graces who spoke with CT offered diverse explanations for how their parents found their name. Image: Courtesy of Grace Boneschansker and Grace Nobleza Grace Nobleza, in her mid-50s, and Grace Boneschansker (nee Nagasuye), 64, both Canadian residents, cited Grace Kelly, the former princess of Monaco, as their parents inspiration. When they were born, the American actress had recently married Prince Rainier and was a well-loved icon around the world. Others had Christian parents who found the name an important representation of Gods undeserved favor, like Grace Liaw Bliss, 33, who is Malaysian Chinese and moved to the US to attend Wheaton College. (Her sisters name: Mercy.) Several women also have Chinese and Korean names that are synonymous with their English names. Chan McKibbens Chinese name, Ben En, contains the character (en) for grace. Brannons Korean name, Si-eun, has the Korean character (eun) for grace as well. Grace Park, 40, also has a popular Korean name that translates as grace or favor in English: Eun-hye. (Parks last name is a pseudonym, as she has served as a missionary in a sensitive context for 12 years.) Image: Courtesy of Grace Ju Miller The name also reflects miraculous instances of Gods hand at work, as it was for Grace Ju Miller, Taylor Universitys dean of natural and applied sciences. When Millers mother was pregnant with her in the Philippines, she discovered a cyst in her womb and a doctor advised her to abort the child. A second doctor, however, said the baby was fine and put her on bed rest. The bleeding stopped, and Miller, now 64, was born a perfectly healthy baby. Grace Cho, 26, was born in South Korea and immigrated to the US at 18 months so her father could pursue a theology degree. While in South Korea, Chos mother did not know she was pregnant and went to the hospital to receive antibiotics for treating an illness. Doctors told her that it was unlikely her baby would survive after taking the medication. Article continues below Chos mother decided to consult doctors at a Christian hospital instead. There, hospital staff said they would pray for both mother and child. Cho was born nine months later without any ill effects, and her birth was a sign of Gods grace in her parents eyes. To me, the name Grace represents how Im meant to be here, [even when its been] difficult to fit in, Cho said. I love my name. An evangelical impulse Nevertheless, for North Americanborn Graces, the popularity of the name cannot be attributed simply to its celebrity factor, its commonality with words in other languages, or as a celebration of Gods faithfulness. Evangelicalism has also influenced the names prevalence in this part of the world. Image: Courtesy of Grace Cho and Grace Brannon Grace reflects one of the core values of the evangelical tradition, Park, the missionary, mused. Theres not many words that could be translated into a childs name. Maybe this has become one of those acceptable words. Even when picking anglicized names for their kids, immigrant Asians have tended to gravitate toward a short list of optionsgenerally, biblical names, reflecting the relatively high percentage of evangelicals among later waves of Korean and Chinese immigrants, wrote thenSF Gate reporter Jeff Yang in 2006. Christian names like Grace may well be an easy way for immigrants of Asian descent to assimilate into a foreign country like America or Canada. In a society where Christianity has cultural, social, political power, it helps you to be Protestant, to have that affiliation, and have Christian names, said Daniel D. Lee, Fuller Seminarys academic dean for the Center for Asian American Theology and Ministry. Biblical names are quite American. Historically, converting to Christianity and attending church improved immigrants status and helped them appear more American and less foreign. The majority of Chinese and Korean immigrants arrived in North America from 1965 onwards, after legislation in the US and Canada repealed decades of discriminatory measures intended to keep them out. Those who had managed to migrate earlier contended with legislation that often kept them second-class citizens. Article continues below Becoming a believer, or adopting a Christian name at the very least, may have been a helpful response in these Christianized contexts. Christianity and prosperity were conflated together, which is problematic, right? But thats how they perceived it. It was white, Christian, prosperous, and powerful. Thats how a lot of immigrants perceived [the] US to be, Lee said. Great expectations For all these efforts at assimilation, the names religious connotations may well add another layer of complexity to formulating ones identity in North America. In the US context, the racialization of Asian American women has meant that they are portrayed as exotic, sexualized, subservient, quiet, nice. Religious [names] add the expectation that this person is going to be kind and wont make a fuss, said Sabrina Chan, InterVarsity Fellowships national director of Asian American Ministries. Modesty and compliance were some of the common attributes for Asian American women named Grace Lee in the 2005 documentary. The attributes [in the film] feel really relatable. These are the same kind of values that are encouraged in Asian girls, said Park, who was born in South Korea and moved to Southern California when she was 10 years old. I live up to all those kinds of expectations, she quipped. Most of the Graces CT interviewed said that they have received overwhelmingly positive responses about their names from people inside and outside the church, such as You live up to your name and I want to name my kid that. Some regard their name as a powerful way to evangelize. I was a rebellious teenager. God turned [my life] upside down, said Boneschansker, the Japanese Canadian. I feel special. Its very biblical. I get to use [my name] as a witness to non-Christians. Others, however, have struggled with the overtly Christian expectations that are typically associated with the name. Image: Courtesy of Grace Liaw Bliss Blisss parents would often say to the siblings, Youre Grace and Mercy. Dont fight. Share with each other. They used our names as motivation: You should be like this, said Bliss, a homemaker who still lives in Wheaton. Right now, people in general will say, Your name is fitting. Its a compliment, but also pressure. [I feel like] I better measure up to this expectation, Bliss added. Article continues below Nobleza, who works as a psychotherapist in Vancouver, Canada, often felt pressured to show grace to everyone she met. This perspective arose from being subsumed in a largely Catholic environment in the Philippines which colored her worldview into one that focused predominantly on doing good works. Displaying nasty or rude behavior to someone was not a good reflection for someone with the name Grace, she said. The realization that I need to receive grace for myself only happened in my 40s, Nobleza said. Brannon spent her college years as Gracey before reverting to Grace two years after graduation, as she felt it sounded more professional in the workplace. (Brannon was previously a marketer at CT.) For her, a living example of Gods grace to her family is her one-and-a-half-year-old daughter, who also bears an explicitly Christian name: Faith. When I was pregnant, I thought a lot about my parents and the heritage of faith they left. By earthly standards, they dont have a lot. They dont have money, investments, or property. Their biggest gift and inheritance they passed on to us is their faith, Brannon said. My desire as a parent is to pass on this legacy of faith from my grandparents down to my own daughter. As long as she comes to trust the Lord, I will be happy. Article continues below Ahmedabad, May 31 : The Ahmedabad police on Wednesday arrested a man allegedly involved in smuggling and selling valuable animal parts at an international level. During questioning, it was revealed that the accused, Prakash Chunilal Jain, had connections to the notorious Sandalwood thief, Veerappan. He lived in the Salem area of Tamil Nadu from 1992 to 2006, used to visit Veerappan's village Koltur from time-to-time and was also aware of the name of Veerappan's wife. He was also involved in obtaining large quantities of ivory through Veerappan's gang members. This information prompted the Ahmedabad Crime Branch team to collaborate with the Tamil Nadu Police and the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, leading to the registration of a case against the accused for the illegal sale of animal remains. Acting on the instructions of the Joint Commissioner of Police and Deputy Commissioner of Police, under the guidance of the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Crime Branch, A.D. Parmar, the team of officers from the City Crime Branch successfully apprehended Prakash from Bodakdev, Ahmedabad. The accused, wanted under various sections of the Wild Animals (Protection) Act, 1972, including Sections 2, 39(b), 44, 49(b), 50, and 51, was handed over to officials from the Tamil Nadu Forest Department's Trichy range. The crime registered was initially reported in the Tiruchirappalli range of Trichy, Tamil Nadu, where Prakash was found illegally selling the remains of various animals, including one tiger skin, two ivory, two deer horns and one fox tail. This arrest is not the first encounter the accused has had with the law. Previously, the Ahmedabad Crime Branch apprehended Prakash one-and-a-half months ago for the possession of elephant tusks worth Rs 35 lakh. A case was registered under Section 379, 411 of the IPC and Section 39, 43(1), 43(2) of the Wild Animals (Protection) Act, 1972. Legal action was taken accordingly. The continuous surveillance and investigation by the Crime Branch team culminated in the arrest of the accused, who has now been handed over to the Tamil Nadu Forest Department for further legal proceedings. New Delhi, May 31 : Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that the 'guarantee habit' of the Congress is old and its 'garibi hatao' guarantee is the biggest treachery with the poor, the grand old party hit back by saying that the Prime minister used the same toolkit in Karnataka, and now the people of Rajasthan will give a befitting reply to the BJP. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said in a video statement, "How can we take seriously the remarks of the Prime Minister who takes pride in giving free food grains to 80 crore people." Khera said that the same World Bank from which the PM is eager to take 'certificate' had said publicly that the Manmohan Singh-led government brought 27 crore people out of poverty. "Now those 27 crore people and additionally 14 crore more people have come under poverty after 2014, and this is the reason why the Modi government is forced to give free ration to 80 crore people," he said. Khera also pointed out that the country's economy is in 'shambles' and the Prime Minister is using the 'toolkit' to curse the previous governments. "He (Modi) used this toolkit in Karnataka, where the public responded. Now he will get a befitting reply in Rajasthan," said the Congress leader, who is the Chairman of the party's media and publicity cell. Khera's remarks came after Modi in his address in Ajmer said, "This 'guarantee habit' of Congress is not new, it is old. Fifty years back, Congress gave the 'garibi hatao' guarantee to the country. It was Congress' biggest treachery with the poor. Congress' strategy has been to trick the poor, and the people of Rajasthan have suffered due to this." The Prime Minister also said that the policy of the Congress has been to cheat the poor and make them suffer. "Before 2014, the people of the country were protesting against corruption, terrorist attacks etc., even as the Congress government was afraid to build roads along the borders. However, you changed everything with your one vote in 2014. The entire world is talking about the development of India now," Modi said. Assembly elections in Rajasthan are due later this year. Islamabad, June 1 : At least two terrorists were killed by security forces in an operation in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the military said. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Pakistan Army, said on Wednesday that the security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation in the Dossali area of South Waziristan, a district in the province bordering Afghanistan, Xinhua news agency reported. On receiving a tip-off about the presence of terrorists in the area, the security forces cordoned off a hideout and killed two terrorists in an intense exchange of fire, said the ISPR, adding that weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the terrorists. The ISPR said that the slain militants were actively involved in terrorist activities against security forces and the killing of citizens. We knew that category leader Invafreshs solutions could be implemented rapidly; adding value to our organization, and delivering a clear return on investment -- Richard Weber, Director of Information Technology at Strack & Van Til Invafresh, the industry standard for fresh food retail operations, announced today that Strack & Van Til has selected Invafresh's world-class architecture to optimize the fresh food operations of the Indiana-based chain, including produce, meat, deli, and dairy. Invafresh is currently accelerating fresh food operations for Strack & Van Til in scale management and recipe management. To ensure pricing accuracy, identify opportunities for margin growth, and provide a superior customer experience, Strack and Van Til required a robust solution capable of automating manual processes. "As a grocery retailer, it is imperative and a point of operational pride for us to always display correct and up-to-date pricing for our fresh food products to our customers. In addition, our use of the Invafresh Recipe Management module will enable us to centralize the creation, storage, and management of all recipes for retail products produced in-store, said Richard Weber, Director of Information Technology at Strack & Van Til. "As the category leader for fresh food retail operations with years of proven expertise, we knew that Invafresh solutions could be implemented rapidly, immediately improving the level of service we can provide to our customers, adding value to our organization, and delivering a clear return on investment." "We are delighted to welcome the venerated Strack & Van Til chain to our customer base of over 300 grocery retailers," said Tim Spencer, President and CEO at Invafresh. "By leveraging our Fresh Retail Platform, Strack & Van Til will be able to automate their fresh food retail operations to ensure accurate and consistent pricing across all stores and allow in-store associates to focus on serving their customers. Our partnership with Strack & Van Til is a testament to the value of our experience and category knowledge that we bring to the market." Follow Invafresh on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and subscribe to Invafresh on YouTube ### About Invafresh With a combined 500+ years of Freshology experience, the heritage of Invafresh has enabled fresh food retailers to create extraordinary store operations performance and differentiated consumer experiences. As the leader of Freshology, Invafresh is deployed in more than 25,000 grocery stores spanning a global reach of 18 countries with more than $100 million of Fresh revenue transacted daily, providing omnichannel demand forecasting, merchandising, replenishment, and sustainability and compliancy. Learn more at http://www.invafresh.com. About Strack & Van Til Our Story started in the late 1950s when Ernie Strack and Nick Van Til owned separate grocery stores in Northwest Indiana. Drawn together by a common ambition to create a more exciting shopping experience for customers they joined forces in 1959 to create Strack & Van Til. Inspired by the idea of creating a modern supermarket Ernie and Nick acquired a 10-acre piece of land in Highland Indiana to build their dream. More than 50 years later Strack & Van Til grocery stores are a cornerstone of communities throughout Northwest Indiana and Illinois. For more information visit http://www.strackandvantil.com Our research underscores the necessity of putting patients first when designing self-reporting apps. Meeting patients where they are will enable vast improvements in healthcare, and open clinical research to a massive, diverse patient population. --uMotif Co-founder & Chief Design Officer Ben James How people identify and report pain varies based on ethnicity, according to a University of Manchester study. The study, in collaboration with uMotif, was based on the novel Manchester Digital Pain Manikin self-reporting app which was used by participants to record their pain. Chronic pain, which affects approximately 28 million people in the UK alone, can create a personal and economic burden. It is essential to accurately measure pain, know its causes, and estimate its impact on peoples lives. As the study report, Exploring the Cross-cultural Acceptability of Digital Tools for Pain Self-reporting: Qualitative Study, published August 2, 2023 in Volume 10 of the open-access journal JMIR Human Factors describes, researchers aimed to inform the development of cross-culturally acceptable digital pain self-reporting tools by better understanding the similarities and differences between ethnic groups in pain experiences and self-reporting needs. Professor Will Dixon, Chair in Digital Epidemiology at the University of Manchester, explained, We are hopeful this study will lead to improvements in accurate and acceptable self-reporting of pain across cultures, so people of different ethnic groups can be assured of actively contributing to better future clinical care and research about their pain, regardless of their background. Study participants self-identified as Black African, South Asian, or White British. The researchers demonstrated uMotifs Manchester Digital Pain Manikin app as a self-reporting tool. Participants used the app to report overall pain intensity on a scale from 0-10; location-specific pain intensity on a 2D gender-neutral body manikin; and a free text pain diary to elaborate on the manikin drawing. Four main themes emerged from the interpretive analysis: perceived causes of pain; approaches and attitudes to self-treatment and management; frustration and embarrassment in communicating about pain with others; and, lack of experience with formal pain assessment tools. The inequalities in pain may be partly explained by the influence of culture and ethnicity, which may affect the way people perceive, experience, and communicate pain. People from non-White ethnic backgrounds had different beliefs and perceptions on pain compared to those from White backgrounds, which resulted in internalizing stigma and developing a negative attitude toward medication and pain reporting. People from a South Asian background were less likely to receive pain medication than White patients, and Black individuals may have different pain management preferences and expectations. Despite these differences, all participants agreed on which aspects of pain reporting were important to self-report, such as pain quality, pain causes, feedback of previous pain reports, and availability of a digital device for pain management. uMotif Co-founder and Chief Design Officer Ben James (LinkedIn) said, It was an honor for the Digital Pain Manikin app to be used in such an important study. Once again, our research underscores the absolute necessity of putting the patient first when designing self-reporting apps. Making the effort to understand and meet the patient where they are will enable vast improvements in healthcare, and will open clinical research to a massive and diverse patient population. The study was led by Syed Mustafa Ali of the University of Manchester. Also participating from the University were Dr. Rebecca R. Lee, Versus Arthritis Research Fellow, Division of Musculoskeletal & Dermatological Sciences; Professor William G. Dixon, Chair in Digital Epidemiology, Director of the Centre for Epidemiology Versus Arthritis; John McBeth, Professor of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Division of Musculoskeletal & Dermatological Sciences; and Dr. Sabine Van Der Veer, Senior Lecturer in Health Informatics, Division of Informatics, Imaging & Data Sciences. Completing the team were uMotif Co-Founder and Chief Design Officer Ben James, and Lead Product Designer Sean McAlister; and Dr. Alessandro Chiarotto, Assistant Professor at the Department of General Practice, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam. 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 We appreciate our local communities supporting us. Helping those in need, is our way of giving back. A new roof is expensive. To replace asphalt shingles on a 2500 square foot roof with new, mid-grade shingles, one can expect to pay around around $9,000, labor and materials. Not everyone can afford this, even with financing, when they have other, more pressing financial obligations, such as medical and utility bills. Thank goodness there are partnerships like the Colorado Roofing Association and Habitat for Humanity's "Roof Over Your Head" partnership. The purpose of this is to help hurting families or individuals, such as widows and veterans, with, among other things, roof replacements in our local area. Bob Behrends Roofing, LLC, of Greeley, Colorado, has agreed to donate their time and expertise installing a new roof for a Loveland resident using asphalt shingles donated by GAF. Bob Behrends Roofing, LLC, is a trusted, local roofing company based out of Greeley, Colorado. They have installed countless roofs all along the Front Range, and are a Preferred Contractor. GAF is a leading shingle manufacturer in the U.S. that makes popular, quality roofing products. Together, they make a winning combination. "We appreciate our local communities supporting us." says Doug of Bob Behrends Roofing, LLC. "Helping those in need, is our way of giving back." This is one of the many ways Bob Behrends Roofing gives back to their local communities. In the past, they have participated in the Roofing Deployment Project. This project is coordinated by Owens Corning and Habitat for Humanity and offers new roofs to service men and women in need. Finance and Investing is pleased to announce The Top 25 CFOs of Georgia for 2023. These exceptional individuals play a pivotal role in Georgia's thriving economy, ensuring their respective organizations' financial well-being and progress. As esteemed financial leaders, they manage financial risks, oversee comprehensive financial planning and analysis, and offer invaluable financial guidance to their company's leadership team. Many of Georgia's top CFOs hold key positions in prominent companies spanning diverse industries, such as technology, finance, and healthcare. This year's distinguished awardees, alongside their peers, are actively driving the state's economy forward by implementing prudent financial practices and strategic initiatives that foster growth and stability. Their unwavering dedication and expertise are instrumental in shaping Georgia's economic landscape and contributing to its continued prosperity. Among this years awardees is Mark Eppert, the CFO of the North America Operating Unit at The Coca-Cola Company, who significantly contributed to the transformation and accelerated growth of the unit, resulting in over $3B in additional revenue and $1B in incremental operating income within two years. Awardee Kate Jaspon, Chief Financial Officer of Inspire Brands, is a highly accomplished financial executive with extensive experience in the restaurant industry. She is well-known for her expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and driving operational excellence. Also awarded is Paul Jacobson, Chief Financial Officer of General Motors, who had a successful tenure with Delta Air Lines, Inc., a company he helped transform into one of Fortune magazine's Top 50 Most Admired Companies for six consecutive years. Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 25 CFOs of Georgia for 2023. Kate Jaspon (Inspire Brands), Paul Jacobson (General Motors), Mike Jones (UPS), Dan Janki (Delta Air Lines), Peter Austin (Safran), Mark Eppert (The Coca-Cola Company), Bob Moore (Waffle House), Lorna Street (American Greetings), David Afshar (Aveanna Healthcare), Pavan Bhalla (Vialto Partners), Eric Bryan (Plumbing Distributors, Inc.), Jay Putnam (LendingPoint), Eric Naughton (View Point Health), Stephen Payne (Aylo Health), Michael Hajost (Danimer Scientific), Dimitry Saknovsky (Harrison Poultry, Inc.), Nancy Comerford (Atlanta Network Technologies, Inc./Antonline.com), Greg Greenlow (Alliant Health Solutions), Kevin Swanson (United Forming, Inc.), Dave Morgan (ClearStar), Melissa Williams (Gresco Utility Supply), Jim Fischman (Marena), Geoff Brannon (Rootstock), Adam Sheridan (Prime Retail Services), and Bradley White (Green Cubes Technology). To view the full list, visit https://financeandinvesting.com/the-top-25-cfos-of-georgia-for-2023/ About Finance & Investing Finance & Investing is a comprehensive source for research and information, business news, and corporate actions related to investment banking, wealth management and the public and private markets. The firm is run by a seasoned team of editors, writers and media professionals highly knowledgeable on finance and investing and the various firms and executives that make up the sector. Finance & Investing and its affiliates circulate its content to over 38,000 individuals and businesses. This acquisition highlights our ongoing commitment to the talented entrepreneurs in our industry from start-up to exit and accelerates our growth in Rhode Island, said Ryan Hartley, VP of Corporate Development for Quench. Quench, a leading provider of filtered drinking water solutions for businesses and dealer partners across North America, announced today that it has acquired Pure Beverage Systems, Inc., a prominent dealer of Wellsys-branded bottleless water coolers and ice machines based in Rhode Island. We are thrilled to welcome Pure Beverage Systems customers to the Quench family, said Ryan Hartley, Vice President of Corporate Development for Quench. This acquisition highlights our ongoing commitment to the talented entrepreneurs in our industry from start-up to exit and accelerates our growth in Rhode Island. I am confident that our customers will be as delighted about this acquisition as we are. Our experience as a Quench product dealer convinced us that Quench shares our customer-centric culture, said Bob Greenbaum, President of Pure Beverage Systems. The Quench team was a true partner throughout the acquisition process. Quench is known for its streamlined approach to acquisitions, with an emphasis on transparency and flexibility with sellers. More on Quenchs acquisition process can be found at https://quenchwater.com/acquisitions/ or by contacting our acquisition team directly at acquisitions@quenchonline.com. About Quench Quench USA, Inc. offers bottle-free filtered drinking water solutions for healthy and environmentally conscious consumers outside the home, through direct sales and independent dealers across North America. Our bottle-free water coolers, ice machines, sparkling water dispensers and coffee brewers purify a users existing water supply to provide reliable and convenient filtered water across a broad mix of businesses, such as government, education, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, and other industries, including more than half of the Fortune 500. Headquartered in King of Prussia, PA, Quench has sales and service operations across North America to serve our 100,000+ customers, and a network of more than 300 independent dealers selling products under the brand names Pure Water Technology, Wellsys, and Waterlogic. Quench is a Culligan Company. For more information, please visit https://quenchwater.com. About Culligan Founded in 1936 by Emmett Culligan, Culligan is a world leader in delivering water solutions that will improve the lives of its customers. The company offers some of the most technologically advanced, state-of-the-art water filtration and treatment products. Culligan's products include water softeners, drinking water systems, whole-house systems and solutions for businesses. Culligan's network of franchise dealers is the largest in the world, with over 900 dealers in 90 countries. For more information visit: http://www.culligan.com. YouScienc We are excited to support homeschooling families in their educational journey and equip their students with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their future. - Edson Barton, CEO of YouScience On the heels of Homeschool Awareness Month, YouScience is offering a discount for homeschool individuals, families, and communities to use the award-winning YouScienceAptitude & Career Discovery assessment to help provide this important service for all students to access aptitude, career, and education tools. YouScience Aptitude & Career Discovery is a user-friendly application that enables students to uncover their natural aptitudes and connect these to real-world educational and career pathways. For a limited time, homeschool communities can use the code HOMESCHOOL to get 20% off the $49 retail purchase at youscience.com/buy-now. Key benefits of YouScience Aptitude & Career Discovery for homeschool communities include: Aptitude assessment: Students can uncover their innate talents and strengths through a scientifically validated aptitude assessment, providing valuable insights into their unique abilities. Career exploration: With a vast database of career options, students gain access to comprehensive information on high-demand occupations, including job descriptions, required skills, salary data, and educational pathways. Personalized recommendations: The platform generates personalized recommendations based on individual aptitudes and interests, offering tailored educational pathways that align with each student's aspirations. College and career planning: The program assists students in creating well-informed decisions about college majors, internships, apprenticeships, and vocational training, ensuring they are on the path to success. "We are thrilled to extend Aptitude & Career Discovery to homeschool communities," said Edson Barton, Founder and CEO of YouScience. "Our mission has always been to empower all students to uncover their potential and find fulfilling career pathways, and we believe that all students should have equal access to the tools and resources they need to succeed. We are excited to support homeschooling families in their educational journey and equip their students with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their future." About YouScience: YouScience is the leading technology provider dedicated to solving the skills and exposure gap crisis for students and employers. With its comprehensive platform, YouScience Brightpath, the company connects education with career applications, helping individuals unlock their potential and discover viable pathways for the future. Leveraging proven research, artificial intelligence, and industry insights, YouScience enables individuals to identify their aptitudes, validate their skills and knowledge, and match them with real-world educational and career opportunities in high-demand occupations. Trusted by individuals, parents, educators, and counselors, YouScience currently serves more than 7,000 educational institutions and millions of users nationwide. Andoya Space Launch Seen from Above Andoya Space Defence is a world leader in live firing, test, evaluation, and training for the Norwegian military, and NATO allied forces so we are very honored to be selected to provide this capability, said Jordan Freed, President of Kongsberg Geospatial. Kongsberg Geospatial, developer of the TerraLens SDK, announced today that they have been awarded a contract by Andya Space Defence (ASD), along with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, Aviation & Security as the prime, to provide a next-generation mission planning and situational awareness system for ASDs Test and Training Range. The TerraLens DSF-based system will be fed by multiple sensor types to enable three-dimensional visualization of real-time operations in multiple domains for range monitoring and vehicle tracking. ASD located at Andya, in the northern part of Norway, facilitates end-to-end testing of weapon and sensor systems, and full-scale operational training exercises. The test range can perform missions not possible to conduct anywhere else in the world as one of the most advanced fully instrumented test ranges in Europe. ASD offers a wide range of services within live firing, testing, evaluation, and training for the Norwegian military, NATO allied forces, and the weapons industry. ASD provides data collection by telemetry, radar, and optical sensors, within a safe environment for the trials and their services can be utilized within land, sea, and air operations. Kongsberg Geospatial will deliver a tailored system developed on our TerraLens DSF platform that will provide advanced visualization capability to enable the delivery of these services to be used for planning, operations, and analytics for the testing & training of military technology including, but not limited to, missiles & rockets, aircraft systems, and Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). The TerraLens DSF-based solution prioritizes innovation, scalability, safety assurance, and the reduction of operator cognitive load. It is easily scalable with its Data Distribution Services (DDS) architecture and ensures safety with Geofencing and Safe Areas that output warnings when a track crosses a pre-defined area. Kongsberg Geospatials TerraLens DSF was developed based on technology originally created for airspace control and missile defence applications such as the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). The DSF system is also capable of fusing data from a wide range of real-time sensors to provide a precise real-time picture of their operational airspace when piloting one or more uncrewed vehicles beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) and has been provided to drone operators with enhanced situational awareness while operating uncrewed aircraft and land vehicles. Andoya Space Defence is a world leader in live firing, test, evaluation, and training for the Norwegian military, and NATO allied forces so we are very honored to be selected to provide this capability, said Jordan Freed, President of Kongsberg Geospatial. The Norwegian Andya Space Range modernization will increase the capabilities, and effectiveness of our allied armed forces, and enhance the joint partnership between Norway and Canada and we are proud to be part of it. As a part of the continuous development of the range services, Andya Space Defence has been searching for a visualization solution to enhance and improve our capabilities, says Gunnar Jan Olsen, President of Andya Space Defence. The Kongsberg solution was selected to meet our demanding requirements. About Kongsberg Geospatial: Based in Ottawa, Canada, Kongsberg Geospatial (https://kongsberggeospatial.com) creates precision real-time software for air traffic control and UxS and situational awareness. The Companys products are primarily deployed in solutions for air-traffic control, Command and Control, and air defence. Over nearly three decades of providing dependable performance under extreme conditions, Kongsberg Geospatial has become the leading geospatial technology provider for mission-critical applications where lives are on the line. Kongsberg Geospatial is a subsidiary of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. Media contact: 1-613-271-5500 or reach us by email at info@kongsberggeospatial.com About Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, Aviation & Security: Based in Kongsberg, Norway, Aviation & Security provides innovative technology for remote towers related operations, digital airports, and security products. The Kongsberg Remote Towers systems are increasing air traffic safety while cutting down operational and maintenance costs. The systems enhance optimal efficiency in extreme environments while maintaining safety through remote tower implementation, digital tower enhancements, and implementing other surveillance operations. Media contact: aviation.security@kongsberg.com About Andya Space Defence: Andya Space Defence is a versatile Test Range used for a variety of missions. Andya Space Defence is the only advanced Test and Training Range in Norway for advanced testing and is in many respects unique in Nordic waters. The range is used on a regular basis for large exercises with multinational defence task forces. Media contact: +47 76 14 44 00 or reach us by email at press@andoyaspace.no When mural artist Yaramis Yara Ramos Hernandez looks at the changes that are coming to Columbus, she sees them as family oriented. Highlighting the Innovation Center, the Columbus Community Building and more, Ramos Hernandez said these new happenings keep residents, families in Columbus. I love the idea, I love not having to drive every weekend (for) two hours to see something different or to have some fun, Ramos Hernandez said. Her latest piece of artwork will now be part of the movement as Ramos Hernandez recently was commissioned to paint the mural on the back of the stage in Frankfort Square. Originally from Cuba, Ramos Hernandez has lived in Columbus since 2013. Ramos Hernandez studied and has a degree in design, and during the last 20 years she has been working in the field. She is working for Central Community College (CCC) as the campus designer, and has a mural and graphic design business, Havana Stone. During my career I (received) all sorts of education for painting, design concepts, psychology a lot of things so when you put all of that together, its a good mix for mural painting, she said. Last spring, the City of Columbus put out a call for art regarding the stage in Frankfort Square. This was the first project that Jean Van Iperen, planning and economic development coordinator for the city, took over when she started her position. Ramos Hernandez decided to toss her hat in the ring. I want one of my works (to be) displayed in the community, out there in the community as part of what we are doing here, all the movement we are having here, I wanted to be part of it, Ramos Hernandez said. Because Frankfort Square is home to many musical, art and cultural events, the concept for Ramos Hernandezs piece started there. The protagonist of this mural, Ramos Hernandez explained, is music. Looking at the mural, a guitar is part of the overall design. I wanted to integrate the design with what we have, thats why I came up with a guitar which will use the handrail as part of the arm of the guitar, she said. When you look a little bit from behind, you can see that these could be the strings of the guitar. Living in Columbus with her significant other, two daughters ages 2 and 14 and her mother, family is what motivates her. Everything I do is trying to be as close as possible to God and trying to be something for my mom to be proud of and the best possible (role model) for my daughters, she said. After the concept was chosen, Van Iperen said there were some setbacks with the project, but Ramos Hernandez was able to start painting last week. The hope is that it will be complete in the next few weeks. Van Iperen said it will be nice to have this project finished. Hopefully the community likes the piece that was selected, Van Iperen said. Yara is, as an artist, very mindful of where the piece is going to go, what audience it needs to speak to. The thing I like about her as an artist is shes very mindful of those things and she tries to select subject matters and designs that will appeal to a wide variety of people using the space where the mural is going to be. Van Iperen explained that Ramos Hernandez had a great narrative that was part of her proposal. From the colors that she chose to the symbolism of the guitar and other instruments on the guitar, Van Iperen said the piece deals with inclusion. "Certain colors make you feel warm and kind of give you that warm and fuzzy feeling. She put a lot of thought into the piece so I hope everybody appreciates it and likes it as much as I do and as much as the selection committee did, too," Van Iperen said. The selection committee, Van Iperen elaborated, was comprised of city staff and community members. They had to agree on a design and make sure it worked logistically and went with Ramos Hernandez's guitar piece. I felt so blessed and it is a privilege," Ramos Hernandez said of being chosen as the artist. "I dont know how many people submitted a proposal, but to be chosen for this - that will be displayed for the whole community - it is humbling. This is approximately the 14th mural downtown, Van Iperen said. The eventual plan, she explained, is to have an art walk in the downtown area to work with the self-guided historic tour already in place in the area and eventual community building as a sort of hub for tourism. "I think the community and businesses are going to see this particular area grow, because I do think we're right on the cusp of creating a downtown destination people will want to travel to, to visit, to shop in and hopefully attract a few more businesses, more restaurants," Van Iperen said. "The downtown area is right there. We just need to cross that line." The mural also contributes to the city's efforts for Downtown Columbus to be considered a certified creative district with the Nebraska Arts Council. That designation would open up grant opportunities for more art, such as sidewalk murals and perhaps sculpture. That artwork would, in turn, bring visitors to the area and highlight local artists and their works that represent the community. I want it to be refreshing, somehow. I want it to be fun sort of an experience thats what I want, Ramos Hernandez said of what she hopes people will take away from her mural. I dont want it to be just a painting. I want it to be something that you look at and (it) refreshes you from your day. Thats what I want. On behalf of our entire MCI USA platform, I congratulate Angela for this deeply deserving award and recognition. The breadth of her knowledge, together with her wise counsel, has and continues to be a true difference-maker for our business and our people. MCI USA is pleased to announce that Angela Fiorini, Sr. Vice President, Talent Operations & Compliance, is the recipient of a 2023 HR Leadership Award, presented by DCA Live. The awards program recognizes forty senior executives from the Washington, DC, region who are creating value and driving growth in their organizations as leaders of talent management. On behalf of our entire MCI USA platform, I congratulate Angela for this deeply deserving award and recognition, said Tom Gibson, CEO, MCI USA. The breadth of her knowledge, together with her wise counsel, has and continues to be a true difference-maker for our business and our people. As such, its exciting to see that her remarkable contributions are recognized and applauded by her peers in the larger HR community. Angela Fiorini has extensive experience in creating and driving HR innovation, programs, and policies. She ensures that MCI USAs organizational design and HR strategies and priorities align with the organizations business imperatives to deliver enhanced performance. Her areas of expertise include business partnership, talent acquisition, total rewards, talent management, compliance, and mergers and acquisitions. Before joining MCI USA, Angela developed her specialized knowledge of HR in a variety of leadership positions for companies such as Oberthur Technologies, Anystream, Global TeleSystems Inc., and Mercer Management Consulting. DCA Live is a leading source of intelligence on issues shaping Washington, DC business. It will host leaders in tech, real estate, associations, government contracting, law, and finance at a June 1 event to recognize Angela and her fellow 2023 HR Leadership Award recipients. ### ABOUT MCI MCI is a global engagement and marketing agency. We design human-centric solutions that unleash the power of people to deliver innovation and growth for our clients. Our offering includes live & virtual events, strategic & digital communications, consulting & community solutions. We help brands, companies, associations, and not-for-profits solve their challenges, bringing their people together to shape their tomorrow. MCI is an independently owned company headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with a global presence in 60 offices across 31 countries. http://www.wearemci.com MCIs US headquarters is in the Washington, DC area with offices in New York, Baltimore, Dallas, and Chicago. http://www.wearemci.com/en-us Shelter Dog and Animal Control Officer We are at the tipping point of taking the country no-kill, said Julie Castle, CEO, Best Friends Animal Society. This critical mass of no-kill shelters shows that its possible to save every healthy and treatable pet in a shelter, and its sustainable. Best Friends Animal Society, a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of cats and dogs in shelters by 2025, released its annual data report today which gives the most accurate and comprehensive national overview of the number of dogs and cats that enter and exit shelters in a given year. The most noteworthy takeaway is the number of no-kill* shelters in the U.S. was at an all-time high at 57% in 2022. This is up from 24% in 2016 when Best Friends announced its goal to make America no-kill by 2025. We are at the tipping point of taking the country no-kill, said Julie Castle, CEO, Best Friends Animal Society. This critical mass of no-kill shelters shows that its possible to save every healthy and treatable pet in a shelter, and its sustainable. 93% of shelters that were no-kill in 2021 were able to maintain it the following year. The data also showed that the number of dogs and cats killed in U.S. shelters had a setback, with an increase to around 378,000. This was largely due to shelters experiencing higher intakes and lower adoptions. However, it also showed that nearly 60% of the increase came from just 1% of shelters, which were primarily large, municipal agencies. This means targeted programming proven to save more lives, including partnerships between no-kill and not yet no-kill shelters, as well as shelters and rescue groups, Best Friends staff embeds, cat and big-dog-focused initiatives, and advocacy work can help fix the problem. Recent industry data revealed that dogs acquired from breeders and pet stores have been steadily increasing over the past few years. Dog adoptions stalled at just under 1 million last year, while intake was up by approximately 100,000 (the majority of which were strays, not returns). Compared to 2021 when cats were killed at twice the rate of dogs in shelters, there was a significant drop in the dog save rate in 2022 (83%, down from 87% in 2021). Fostering and adoption of dogs and cats is vital to get back on track to make shelters no-kill by 2025. More statistics from the 2022 dataset: The number of pets that entered shelters nationally was 4.4 million, which is an increase of 1.6% over 2021. While dogs and cats entered shelters at about an equal rate, cats made up 55% of the killing, while dogs were 45%. Cats remain the most vulnerable in shelters, especially during kitten season, the summer months when cats reproduce and kittens flood shelters. The national save rate dropped slightly from 83.5% in 2021 to 81.4% in 2022. But shelter lifesaving is still trending in the right direction as the total number pets killed per year dropped by about 653K (-63.3%) since 2016. Five states make up 54% of the overall number of dogs and cats killed in 2022 (Texas, California, North Carolina, Florida, and Georgia). Vermont joined Delaware and New Hampshire as no-kill states, meaning that every shelter in each of those states was no-kill. Rhode Island, North Dakota, Maine and Montana were each on the cusp with a combined total of just over 300 dogs and cats to save to earn no-kill. We've made great progress and there is still momentum for our achievable goal, despite the small dip in lifesaving in 2022. 2025 is only two years away, so now is the time to support your local shelters. Together, let's make every shelter and every community no-kill by 2025, added Castle. Individuals can help save lives by choosing to adopt from a shelter or rescue group instead of purchasing from a breeder or store, spay or neuter their pets, foster kittens or an adult dog, volunteer, donate, and advocate for proven lifesaving programming for pets. About the data For the past seven years, Best Friends has spearheaded a one-of-a-kind extensive data collection process that involves coordinated outreach to every shelter in America followed by additional research, data analysis, and technology development. The dataset is the most comprehensive on U.S. sheltered animals, and is based on data collected directly from shelters, state and local coalitions, government websites, and FOIA requests. From this, 95% of the animal intake in U.S. shelters is known, 5% is estimated. Best Friends has the most recently available annual data for 85% of shelters nationwide, nearly three times the amount of Shelter Animals Count and four years newer than that of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. *A 90 percent save rate is the nationally recognized benchmark to be considered no-kill, factoring that approximately 10 percent of pets who enter shelters have medical or behavioral circumstances that warrant humane euthanasia rather than killing for lack of space. About Best Friends Animal Society Best Friends Animal Society is a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in Americas shelters by 2025. Founded in 1984, Best Friends is a pioneer in the no-kill movement and has helped reduce the number of animals killed in shelters from an estimated 17 million per year to around 378,000. Best Friends runs lifesaving programs across the country, as well as the nations largest no-kill animal sanctuary. Working collaboratively with a network of more than 4,200 animal welfare and shelter partners, and community members nationwide, Best Friends is working to Save Them All. For more information, visit bestfriends.org. Americans understand that our credibility on the world stage depends largely on us following through on our debt obligations, said Peter Yeo, President of the Better World Campaign. Democrats and Republicans agree that the U.S. should pay dues owed to the UN peacekeeping budget, according to a new poll released by the Better World Campaign and conducted by Morning Consult. There is strong alignment across parties, with 87% of Democrats and 75% of Republicans believing the U.S. should pay immediately or over time. Majorities in both parties say its important for the U.S. to pay off its dues to raise U.S. credibility and to be consistent with American values. Americans understand that our credibility on the world stage depends largely on us following through on our debt obligations, said Peter Yeo, President of the Better World Campaign. Paying our assessed and agreed upon dues strengthens our position and favorability in the world and ensures that other nations arent forced to shoulder the burden our arrears have created. As of 2023, the U.S. owes more than $1.1 billion to UN peacekeeping missions. These arrears have grown over time because the U.S. Congress has arbitrarily capped American contributions at 25% of the UN peacekeeping budget, which is less than our assessed amount of 27%. In other survey findings, a majority of Democrats and Republicans say the U.S. should help the UN replace peacekeeping assets withdrawn by Ukraine after the Russian attack. Overall, less than half of Americans felt they understood UN peacekeeping, believing the U.S. provides more than 500 troops. The actual number is 35 far fewer than the 2,258 personnel provided by China. Law Office of Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP For more information about the lawsuit against Fedex Ground Package System, Inc., call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today. The Los Angeles employment law attorneys, at Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP, filed a lawsuit against Fedex Ground Package System, Inc. alleging the company violated Labor Code 2699, et seq. seeking penalties for DEFENDANTs alleged violation of California Labor Code 201-203, 204 et seq., 210, 218, 221, 226(a), 226.7, 227.3, 510, 512, 558(a)(1)(2), 1194, 1197, 1197.1, 1198, and 2802. The lawsuit against Fedex Ground Package System, Inc. is currently pending in the San Bernardino County Superior Court, Case No. CIVSB2305596. To read a copy of the Complaint, please click here. According to the lawsuit filed, Fedex Ground Package System, Inc. allegedly failed to fully relieve Plaintiff and other Aggrieved Employees for their legally required thirty (30) minute meals breaks. Employees were also allegedly required, from time to time, to work in excess of four (4) hours without being provided the legally required ten (10) minute rest periods. The California Supreme Court defines off-duty rest periods as the time during which an employee is relieved from all work-related duties and free from employer control. PAGA is a mechanism by which the State of California itself can enforce state labor laws through the employee suing under the PAGA who do so as the proxy or agent of the state's labor law enforcement agencies. An action to recover civil penalties under PAGA is fundamentally a law enforcement action designed to protect the public and not to benefit private parties. The purpose of PAGA is not to recover damages or restitution, but to create a means of "deputizing" citizens as private attorneys general to enforce the Labor Code. For more information about the lawsuit against Fedex Ground Package System, Inc., call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today. Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP is a labor law firm with law offices located in San Diego County, Riverside County, Los Angeles County, Sacramento County, Santa Clara County, Orange County, and San Francisco County. The firm has a statewide practice of representing employees on a contingency basis for violations involving unpaid wages, overtime pay, discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and other types of illegal workplace conduct. ***THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT*** By mimicking blood flow patterns in the human body, engineers improve the safety and efficacy of artificial lungs, a potential benefit to critical care patients and combat casualties. Here we report on development and demonstration of the first microfluidic respiratory assist device at a clinical scale, demonstrating efficient oxygen transfer at blood flow rates of 750 milliliters per minute, the highest ever reported for a microfluidic device, said Draper and AREVA. A mechanical device for oxygenating blood outside the human body, essentially functioning as an artificial lung, is taking a leap forward fifty years after its debut. The original device in clinical use today, called ECMO, which stands for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, has been reimagined by bioengineers at Draper who took their cues from the way the human body oxygenates blood in the branching circulatory system. The results, published in the journal Advanced Science, demonstrate a new configuration of an ECMO device that delivers oxygen and removes carbon dioxide in blood that travels through branching microchannels. The study, by researchers at Draper and The Autonomous Reanimation and Evacuation (AREVA) research program and innovation institute of the Geneva Foundation, is a key step toward translation of this technology to the clinic for treatment of a range of lung diseases, said Jeff Borenstein, Ph.D., a laboratory fellow at Draper. Critical care patients such as premature infants, transplant and pneumonia patients and others suffering respiratory failure and related conditions may benefit, he added. ECMO technology was developed in the late 1960s, and its main purpose was to serve as a temporary bypass machine to support gas exchange for patients undergoing heart surgery. The central functional unit of current ECMO systems are a hollow fiber membrane oxygenator (HFMO), a device designed to add oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the blood by passing it over a fiber bundle in a specially designed container. Since its inception, the safety and availability of ECMO has been limited by the complexity of the blood circuit, hemocompatibility of the oxygenator and circuit components and complications such as clotting, bleeding and inflammatory responses. While only the largest and most specialized medical centers currently offer ECMO, the demand for ECMO spiked during the pandemic, since the conventional means for respiratory support mechanical ventilationresulted in poor patient outcomes and high mortality. A safer and simpler-to-use device could bring the life-saving power of heart and lung bypass to civilian patients when ICU beds are limitedand to military casualties on the battlefield. However, current ECMO based on HFMO technology requires a large team of highly specialized personnel to administer the treatment and deal with frequent complications. Draper addressed ECMOs challenges by developing a three-dimensional branching network of blood channels that mimic key features of the human bodys microcirculation, an approach that is not possible with conventional HFMO cartridge technology. They focused on scalable operation at clinically relevant flow rates and stable, long-term performance. They used microfluidic technology, a specialty at Draper, to control for flow behavior, fluidic resistance, shear stresses and uniform distribution across the microfluidic device. Here we report on development and demonstration of the first microfluidic respiratory assist device at a clinical scale, demonstrating efficient oxygen transfer at blood flow rates of 750 milliliters per minute, the highest ever reported for a microfluidic device, the authors said. One of the most promising routes of innovation in ECMO entails the use of microfluidics technology for the design and construction of the oxygenator, with the potential to replace the HFMO with a branching network of microchannels that recapitulates key aspects of the lung vasculature. Brett Isenberg, a co-author of the paper and a principal member of the technical staff, said, One of the most common criticisms of the microfluidic approach is that it will never be capable of operating at clinically relevant flow rates. However, with this study, we have taken the first major step towards demonstrating the viability of microfluidic oxygenators at a scale and duration that is suitable for human patients. The research is a collaboration between Draper and the AREVA Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas. AREVA is a pioneer in developing and testing groundbreaking life-saving interventions in critical care and, specifically, for life-threatening injuries leading to lung and multiorgan failure such as seen in combat casualties and severely injured civilians, said Andriy Batchinsky MD, founding director of AREVA and co-principal investigator in charge of clinically-relevant testing of the microfluidic oxygenator that Draper developed. While ECMO has been around for a while, it is not widely adopted in combat scenarios or in the clinical environment, says Dr. Teryn Roberts, Dr. Batchinskys colleague and research partner, and a principal investigator at AREVA and co-investigator on this study overseeing biocompatibility assessment. Drapers innovations in solutions for the warfighter, including ECMO, was a natural fit for our work at AREVA where we specifically focus on development and testing of novel biocompatible materials for extracorporeal life support (ECLS), as well as the effects of ECLS on coagulopathy and endothelial damage following trauma. Initially launched with internal funding, Drapers biomimetic ECMO device advanced from lab to bench scale with funding from the National Institutes of Health, Department of Defense and commercial device manufacturers. In 2021, Drapers advancements received recognition from the American Society for Artificial Internal Organs. The U.S. Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity, 820 Chandler Street, Fort Detrick MD 21702-5014 is the awarding and administering acquisition office. This work was supported by The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs endorsed by the Department of Defense, in the amount of $4,9111,476.00, through the Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program under Award Number W81XWH1910518. Opinions, interpretations, conclusions, and recommendations contained herein are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily endorsed by the Department of Defense. In conducting research using animals, the investigator(s) adhere(s) to the laws of the United States and regulations of the Department of Agriculture. Visit Draper.com. This shift is a first of its kind, having a panel of specialists, industry-leading guests and community in the same room discussing real-time, breaking crypto news and the most important topics in crypto. Crypto Town Hall, an innovative content collaboration spearheaded by three crypto investors, entrepreneurs and media experts, is poised to revolutionize the world of citizen journalism through Twitter Spaces. Mario Nawfal, the CEO of IBCgroup.io, and the host of the Roundtable show, Scott Melker (aka The Wolf of All Streets), and Ran Neuner, founder of the Crypto Banter, have joined forces to establish the new daily crypto show Crypto Town Hall as the destination for daily crypto discussions, heated debates and real-time, breaking news on Twitters native community podcasting feature called Twitter Spaces. The three entrepreneurs believe that Twitter is the only content platform left in the world that remains uncensored - a rare stamp of approval in the world of content. Expanding crypto content into Twitter Spaces has been a move not only of innovation, but of uncertainty in restrictions that the current content platforms such as YouTube might implement in the future. The Spaces feature on Twitter has accelerated innovation in media and content creation, now putting the community at the centre of it all, which is where Ran, Scott and Mario intend to keep them! This shift is a first of its kind, having a panel of specialists, industry-leading guests and community in the same room discussing real-time, breaking crypto news and the most important topics in crypto. Crypto Town Hall's launch comes on the heels of the major success of Roundtable Show, a name synonymous with Twitter Spaces over the past 8 months. By merging their respective businesses and leveraging the achievements of Roundtables Twitter Spaces success, which has previously hosted esteemed guests such as Michael Saylor, Kevin OLeary, Anthony Scaramucci, Elon Musk, Mark Cuban, and Bill Ackman, Crypto Town Hall aims to elevate the standard of breaking crypto news and encourage open, transparent engagement on all crypto news and topics for the tech, finance and crypto community. Mario Nawfal, a prominent figure in the crypto industry, brings his previous success and extensive experience to the forefront of Crypto Town Hall. As the founder of IBCgroup.io, and the host at The Roundtable Show, Mario Nawfal has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of media within AI, politics and finance. His visionary leadership and strategic vision will undoubtedly propel Crypto Town Hall to new heights in the fast-evolving world of crypto citizen journalism. Notably known for his versatility as a host, Mario has organized engaging spaces announcing the Ron DeSantis' presidential candidacy in the US for the 2024 election year. A well known, record-breaking Twitter Spaces event that attracted 6.1M listeners and guests ranging from Rudi Guiliani, David Sacks, Elon Musk, Caitlyn Jenner and many more. Scott Melker, celebrated as "The Wolf of All Streets," leverages his unrivalled experience as a trader, investor, and content creator in the cryptocurrency realm. As the host of the industry-leading "Wolf of All Streets" podcast, he contributes his vast media success and influence. Additionally, he steers one of the largest crypto Twitter communities, showcasing his prowess in digital engagement. Taking the reins as the primary host for Crypto Town Hall, Melker masterfully guides the platform's engagement strategy. Ran Neuner, the visionary behind the $150,000,000 exit of TCC (The Creative Counsel) and currently Crypto School and Crypto Banter, a prominent media organization boasting over 700,000 subscribers on YouTube, is the driving force behind Crypto Town Hall's engagement funnel from YouTube to Twitter Spaces. Crypto Banter is an industry leader in providing regular daily trading, crypto news and research shows and becoming the go-to source for breaking news on YouTube. Crypto Town Hall's highly anticipated launch is scheduled for tomorrow (31 May 2023) at 10:15 am EST. The platform's daily shows will run every weekday, Monday to Friday, for two hours, offering an unparalleled opportunity for the crypto, tech, media and finance community to stay informed and engaged with a panel of world-class guests covering real-time breaking news, heated debates and discussions on all things crypto. For media inquiries, sponsorship, interviews, or additional information, please contact: IBC Group Romy partnerships(at)thecryptotownhall(dot)com +61 492 853 898 About Crypto Town Hall Crypto Town Hall is poised to become the premier destination for the latest insights, news, and stories from the crypto industry on Twitter Spaces. As the leading voice in the crypto sphere, they aim to establish themselves as a credible and premium source, providing daily crypto stories and breaking news. Catering to investors, retail enthusiasts, and traditional finance professionals alike, Crypto Town Hall aspires to be the go-to platform for anyone seeking authoritative and timely information about cryptocurrencies. Recognizing the immense potential of Twitter Spaces, the platform foresees it as the next frontier for content and breaking news. With this vision in mind, they strive to emerge as industry leaders in citizen journalism, setting new standards of excellence for the crypto community. Measures that help improve clinical trial outcomes by increasing the likelihood of a clear, interpretable signal and avoiding unnecessary trial failure are therefore of great potential value. Clinical trials have a high failure rate, even for those compounds that have demonstrated efficacy in Phase 2 in the target population. CNS trials are associated with some of the highest failure rates and pose unique challenges. Clinical trials in CNS/neuroscience are complex and prone to producing uninterpretable or ambiguous results. This can have grave effects on the development of potentially effective treatments leading to program delay or cancellation, as well as company failure. Measures that help improve clinical trial outcomes by increasing the likelihood of a clear, interpretable signal and avoiding unnecessary trial failure are therefore of great potential value. Top reasons for trial failure are the inability to demonstrate efficacy as well as safety issues that arise during the trials. While protocols are carefully designed to enroll the appropriate subject pool, Syneos Health has found that about 10 percent of subjects considered appropriate by sites for trial inclusion, did not meet protocol criteria. The enrollment of unsuitable subjects has the potential to have a significant financial cost to sponsors as well as risk signal detection. So how can an eligibility review enhance clinical trial outcomes? Join experts from Syneos Health and Karuna Pharmaceuticals as they discuss their strategy implemented by Syneos Health CST (Clinical Surveillance and Training) to help sites identify suitable subjects, minimize noise, protect study investment and help obtain clearer results. Join Dr. Stephen Brannan, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Karuna Therapeutics; Beth Eisenberg, PhD, Director, BU Ops (Scientific Director), Clinical Surveillance & Training (CST) Neurosciences, Syneos Health; Dr. Leslie Moldauer, MD, MBA, Vice President, Medical Director, Syneos Health; and Zelma Gandy-Don Sing, PhD, Lead Clinical Scientist, Syneos Health, for the live webinar on Monday, June 19, 2023, at 11am EDT (4pm BST/UK). For more information, or to register for this event, visit How Eligibility Review Can Enhance Clinical Trial Outcomes. ABOUT XTALKS Xtalks, powered by Honeycomb Worldwide Inc., is a leading provider of educational webinars to the global life science, food and medical device community. Every year, thousands of industry practitioners (from life science, food and medical device companies, private & academic research institutions, healthcare centers, etc.) turn to Xtalks for access to quality content. Xtalks helps Life Science professionals stay current with industry developments, trends and regulations. Xtalks webinars also provide perspectives on key issues from top industry thought leaders and service providers. To learn more about Xtalks visit http://xtalks.com For information about hosting a webinar visit http://xtalks.com/why-host-a-webinar/ Contact: Vera Kovacevic Tel: +1 (416) 977-6555 x371 Email: vkovacevic@xtalks.com Law Office of Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP For more information about the class action lawsuit against Boudin Properties Operating, Inc. call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today. The San Francisco employment law attorneys, at Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP, filed a class action complaint alleging that Boudin Properties Operating, Inc. violated the California Labor Code. The Boudin Properties Operating, Inc. class action lawsuit, Case No. 23-CIV-01986, is currently pending in the San Mateo County Superior Court of the State of California. A copy of the Complaint can be read here. According to the Complaint, the company's non-exempt employees were allegedly unable to take off-duty meal breaks due to their rigorous work schedules. California labor laws require an employer to provide an employee required to perform work for more than five (5) hours during a shift with, a thirty (30) minute uninterrupted meal break prior to the end of the employee's fifth (5th) hour of work and a second uninterrupted meal break when employees are required to work ten (10) hours. The Complaint claims that the company did not provide their employees who forfeited meal breaks additional compensation. Additionally, Boudin Properties Operating, Inc. allegedly failed to reimburse employees for required business expenses. California Labor Code 2802 expressly states that "an employer shall indemnify his or her employee for all necessary expenditures or losses incurred by the employee in direct consequence of the discharge of his or her duties..." During employment, Plaintiff and other California Class Members were allegedly required to use their personal cellular phones as a result of and in furtherance of their job duties. For more information about the class action lawsuit against Boudin Properties Operating, Inc. call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today. Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP is an employment law firm with offices located in San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Riverside and Chicago that dedicates its practice to helping employees, investors and consumers fight back against unfair business practices, including violations of the California Labor Code and Fair Labor Standards Act. If you need help in collecting unpaid overtime wages, unpaid commissions, being wrongfully terminated from work, and other employment law claims, contact one of their attorneys today. ***THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT*** The Alert Recommendations capability represents the future of AIOps, making it possible for users and platforms to automate even more of the work that currently consumes so much time and so many resources. Logz.io, provider of the industrys most efficient, simple-to-use observability platform, based on open source, today announced the general availability (GA) of its new Alert Recommendations capability in the Logz.io Open 360 platform. Based on patent-pending technology, the Alert Recommendations feature automates knowledge creation for organizations by capturing the investigative approach of highly trained engineers receiving alerts. Alert Recommendations specifically employs AI to model the steps of platform users as they carry out their work, using that input to recommend alert response steps during subsequent investigations. Based on a supervised machine learning model, this new capability is now available to Logz.io Open 360 users in GA after building significant intelligence from customers in early access. Previously, the industry trend was for engineers to document and share response steps in runbooks to speed remediation. But that process has proven to be ineffective, especially as teams grow and top engineering talent becomes harder to come by. Maintaining runbooks typically requires significant manual work, and the speed of modern production environments makes it increasingly difficult for this type of guide to be adequately maintained and enforced. *Algorithm Adapted to the Reality of Engineers Investigative Path* With Alert Recommendations, the runbook concept is being adapted to address the dynamic nature of todays environments, creating automation using supervised machine learning. Now, every time there is a new investigation, Logz.io Open 360 automatically monitors the investigative path of different team members and identifies which steps resulted in the fastest time to resolution. The methods with the best Mean Time to Recovery (MTTR) results are identified, and an automated path is then created for subsequent alerts, eliminating the need for laborious documentation or inefficient actions. With engineering teams that vary in their degree of expertise, Alert Recommendations also creates a critical knowledge base and automated path that eliminates multiple steps, condensing the timeframe from when the alert is first received to the first investigative action. Valuable engineering resources are optimized while MTTR is reduced. *MTTR is Increasing with Wide Adoption of Kubernetes* According to the 2023 Logz.io DevOps Pulse Survey, MTTR has steadily increased within organizationsafter a 10% increase from last year, 75% of respondents now say its taking them hours to resolve production issues. Only 14% of respondents are satisfied with their current MTTR, indicating a strong need for improvement. And within the rapidly growing microservices and Kubernetes segment, over 41% of survey respondents cited monitoring and observability of Kubernetes as a primary challenge of running it in production, a 10% increase over last year. The survey finds the biggest issue facing todays monitoring and observability teams is that MTTR continues to increase, taking more than a few hours for over 73% of respondents, up noticeably from 64% in 2022 and dramatically from only 47% in 2021. The Alert Recommendation capability is coming at an important time in the evolution of AIOps. The Alert Recommendations capability represents the future of AIOps, making it possible for users and platforms to automate even more of the work that currently consumes so much time and so many resources, said Asaf Yigal, CTO and co-founder of Logz.io. Organizations with limited human resources need efficient and reliable tools to translate their observability data into simpler, more actionable insights. With this capability, the Logz.io Open 360 platform harnesses the actions of highly skilled engineers while reducing remediation time. *About the Logz.io Open 360 Platform* Open 360 is Logz.ios observability platform which unifies log, metric and trace analytics. It provides a 360 degree view of production health and performance, and its built around the leading open source observability technologies including OpenSearch, OpenTelemetry, Prometheus and Jaeger. Logz.io enhances these technologies to make them easier to use, to reduce the total cost of ownership of observability, and to reduce MTTR. Get started with a free 14-day trial of the Logz.io Open 360 platform today. *About Logz.io* Logz.io helps cloud-native businesses monitor and secure their environment. Our Open 360 Platform turns observability from a high-cost, low-value burden to a high-value, cost-efficient enabler of better business outcomes by combining and extending familiar, powerful and relevant Open Source capabilities across Logs, Metrics and Traces - complemented by security monitoring in the form of cloud-based SIEM. Now developers and engineers can employ an end-to-end, cloud-native observability stack built on scalable and easy-to-use Open Source using a single UI and unified agent - at a cost that anyone can afford. Unlock proactive troubleshooting, faster product delivery and a fully supported SaaS observability platform, all while compounding efficiencies in time and cost. For more information, visit https://logz.io/. ### Process payroll, mid-year easily with ezPaycheck payroll software from halfpricesoft.com Customers purchasing ezPaycheck software mid year are now accommodated with a new year to date feature. Halfpricesoft.com announces an update to 2023 ezPaycheck payroll software for businesses which include a YTD feature for those processing payroll, mid-year. The application is also combined with features that have long been favorites among customers. Processing payroll for multiple companies with unlimited check printing as well as W2, W3, 940 and 941 form printing in one easy software. Customers purchasing ezPaycheck software mid year are now accommodated with a new year to date feature included. said Halfpricesoft.com Founder Dr. Ge. Small Businesses are always looking for ways to save money on payroll processing and tax reporting. Customers can try out ezPaycheck payroll solution for either MAC or Windows for up to 30 days at https://www.halfpricesoft.com/index.asp with no obligation to purchase. The main features for ezPaycheck include but are not limited to: Year to date feature to begin payroll anytime of the year, easily Supports multiple differential pay rates such as: hourly, salary, night shift, by piece, by load, or by mileage rates for employees Supports multiple accounts at no additional charge Supports network feature (additional cost) Supports daily, weekly, biweekly, semimonthly and monthly payroll periods. Features report functions, print functions, and pay stub functions Prints miscellaneous checks as well as payroll calculation checks Prints payroll checks on blank computer checks or preprinted checks Automatically calculates federal withholding tax, social security, medicare tax and employer unemployment taxes Includes built-in tax tables for all 50 states, District of Columbia and Guam Creates and maintains payroll for multiple companies, and does it simultaneously Prints Tax Forms 940, 941, W2 and W3 (Copy A preprinted form required)Recipient copies can be printed on plain white paper. ezPaycheck is compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8, 7 and other Windows systems. We also sell a MAC version separately. The latest version of this popular and easy-to-use software is priced at just $139.00 per installation (released for purchase each December), making ezPaycheck payroll software affordable for any size business. Even better, Halfpricesoft.com is offering a network version for companies where more than one person or one location processes payroll. This new update is available starting at $189 for two installations. Test drive demo version at https://www.halfpricesoft.com/index.asp About halfpricesoft.com Halfpricesoft.com is a leading provider of small business software, including online and desktop payroll software, online employee attendance tracking software, accounting software, in-house business and personal check printing software, W2, software, 1099 software, Accounting software, 1095 form software and ezACH direct deposit software. Software from halfpricesoft.com is trusted by thousands of customers and will help small Business owners simplify payroll processing and streamline business management. (Kate Brindley/New Hampshire Bulletin) LINCOLN A final push over Memorial Day weekend failed to result in a voter ID compromise acceptable to State Sen. Julie Slama of Dunbar and Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen, despite help from Gov. Jim Pillen, Speaker John Arch and Attorney General Mike Hilgers. The result Tuesday was another four-hour filibuster by a single senator opposing a bill during a legislative session defined by similar defiance. This time it was Slama, the face of the 2022 ballot initiative that led to a state constitutional requirement that voters show a photo ID. As happened in the first round of debate, Slamas filibuster again fell to broad legislative support for the Government and Military Affairs Committee bill. Slama said State Sen. Tom Brewer, the committee chairman, wasnt to blame for the voter ID proposals shortcomings. She aimed her attacks at Evnen and his staff. Good faith or not? Slama said that she had negotiated in good faith and that Evnen and his staff showed little interest in her proposals, which would have required additional checks on the citizenship of voters and fewer exceptions for people who could not obtain an ID in time to vote. This isnt about me getting the credit, Slama said. Once a month, she said, shed find out that Evnen, a Republican, was drafting an amendment for the committee or working with the committee on an amendment that the people who opposed voter ID last fall ended up supporting when it came time for cloture votes. I think everybody in the Legislature was operating in good faith, she said. I have serious doubts as to whether or not the Secretary of State was negotiating in good faith, given the weird Road Closed sign that we got at the end of the day yesterday. Brewer, Evnen defend work Evnen, who supported the voter ID initiative, has defended his office, saying they worked with the Government Committee at Brewers request on a proposal, Legislative Bill 514, that balances the requirements of the U.S. and Nebraska Constitutions, as well as election case law. Evnen said his office worked with Slama and gave her feedback on voter ID language she proposed, but he said the language changed multiple times during the process. The Government Committee proposal was a backup plan, Brewer has said. Brewer said key players other than him met with Slama over the weekend and tried to find a way forward, but neither side agreed to what the other wanted. Thats why senators moved forward Tuesday with the Government Committees streamlined proposal, advancing it by voice vote. He got frustrated at one point, objecting to a push by Slama to replace an amendment, and explained what he described as an extensive committee process. Before Tuesdays 42-3 vote for cloture, he said senators needed to uphold the value of the committees work. I believe [LB] 514 is a good bill, Brewer said. Were sitting over here taking a beating over something that was a lot of hard work. What the bill does LB 514 spells out rules about how voters prove they are who they say they are. In-person voters will have to show a state-approved photo ID. Approved IDs would include a drivers license, passport, state ID, college or university ID or nursing home ID. It will cost about $1.8 million to implement, mainly to provide photo IDs for people without them and to provide access for county election offices to obtain the technology needed to check IDs electronically. Slama saved some of her sharpest criticism for how LB 514 would let early voters write down their state-approved ID number and have it checked against an online database that lets election officials confirm their photo ID electronically. Slamas competing proposal, which the committee did not adopt, would have required voters to get a notarys signature when returning a ballot by mail or to get a witness a registered Nebraska voter to vouch, under penalty of law, that they had seen the ID. One moment of levity left Slama and Brewer both smiling and nodding Tuesday. That was when State Sen. Myron Dorn of Adams said, I think when people passed voter ID, they thought, Here, show your drivers license, but this is so much more complicated than that. Voter ID increasingly common National organizations that track voting rights list 35 states that require ID to vote. Slama said a dozen other states have implemented a stricter version of voter ID based on language similar to what Nebraska voters approved. Slama objects to the way LB 514 deals with people who face a reasonable impediment to showing an ID. In her view, the bill allows people too much latitude to say they could not obtain an ID to vote and let them vote. She said Nebraskans want strict voter ID. LB 514 doesnt get us there, she said. Least bad option Voting rights advocates, including State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln, said the committee bill appeared to thread the needle of implementing voter ID while doing the least possible to disenfranchise voters and keep them from exercising their rights. Civic Nebraska, in a statement, agreed, saying: This is a matter of degree, and LB 514s provisions are the least bad option of the voter ID measures considered this year. Slamas filibuster prevented the Legislature from adopting changes the Attorney Generals Office sought, including shifting the language from difficulties presenting an ID to difficulties obtaining an ID in time to vote. Brewer said those changes would be in the committees first bill next year. We did what we could, Brewer said after Tuesdays vote. But we have to move forward. If we need to clean up the language and cant do it this year (because of Slamas filibuster), we will do it in the Government Committees first bill next year. The Law Offices of Coats & Todd Scholarship Winner The Law Offices of Coats & Todd is pleased to announce the first-ever winner of its Overcoming Disability Scholarship. Shelby Rose Benzing has been awarded $2,500 to put towards educational expenses. As a disability law firm, The Law Offices of Coats & Todd is intimately familiar with the struggles of disabled individuals in its community. The firm is entirely dedicated to helping people with disabilities obtain the assistance they need to meet their needs. Now, the firm seeks to help students who have overcome a disability to attend college. Shelby will begin attending the University of Nevada Reno after graduating high school this spring. She plans to pursue a degree in graphic design while she continues to manage her cerebral palsy. The attorneys were impressed with the resilience and upbeat attitude she demonstrated in her video essay submission. While Shelby has struggled with her cerebral palsy, she has never let it stand in the way of her educational goals. The scholarship is offered to students who will be attending college while managing a disability. Eligible students may apply by submitting a video responding to the prompt, What would this scholarship mean for you, and how would it help you achieve your goals for the future? How do you think your disability has affected your life choices? Applications are open through October 5, 2023. To learn more about the Overcoming Disability Scholarship or to apply, please visit: https://www.getdisability.org/scholarship. About The Law Offices of Coats & Todd The Law Offices of Coats & Todd is a disability law firm based in Dallas, Texas. The firm is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities obtain government assistance to which they are entitled, such as Social Security Disability payments. To learn more about The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, please visit: https://www.getdisability.org/ "Our new location will not only benefit our team, but also enable us to better serve our clients and provide them with the personalized services they need to succeed. -Jason DeGoes, President of ProPharma ProPharma Group (ProPharma), the worlds largest Research Consulting Organization (RCO) and a portfolio company of Odyssey Investment Partners, is proud to announce its upcoming move to a new office location in Lund, Sweden, effective June 1, 2023. Known for its thriving community of professionals and companies in the life sciences field, the new office is located in Medicon Village, which is part of Ideon Science Park. Ideon Science Park is the largest hub for life sciences in Sweden, providing abundant opportunities and accessibility for individuals in the Oresund region, encompassing Lund, Malmo, and Copenhagen. As members of the Medicon Village Alliance, ProPharma colleagues will have the advantage of actively engaging in events, meetings, and networking activities organized by Medicon Village, fostering the expansion of professional networks and connections. Jason DeGoes, President of ProPharma, expressed his excitement about the new space, stating, "Were excited to expand our presence within the Oresund region with the opening of our new office in Medicon Village. Being part of the largest Life Science Hub in the Nordics gives us access to a thriving community of professionals and increased space for innovation and collaboration. Our new location will not only benefit our team, but also enable us to better serve our clients and provide them with the personalized services they need to succeed. The new office will feature enhanced meeting areas, providing ample space for collaboration, ideation, and innovation. Additionally, the new facility will offer dedicated bicycle storage and an electric car charging garage to support eco-friendly commuting options for employees. These additions reflect ProPharma's commitment to creating a workspace that prioritizes both employee well-being and environmental consciousness. About ProPharma For the past 20 years, ProPharma has improved the health and wellness of patients by providing advice and expertise that empowers biotech, med device, and pharmaceutical organizations of all sizes to confidently advance scientific breakthroughs and introduce new therapies. As the worlds largest RCO (Research Consulting Organization), ProPharma partners with its clients through an advise-build-operate model across the complete product lifecycle. With deep domain expertise in regulatory sciences, clinical research solutions, quality and compliance, pharmacovigilance, medical information, and R&D technology, ProPharma offers an end-to-end suite of fully customizable consulting solutions that de-risk and accelerate our partners most high-profile drug and device programs. For more information about ProPharma, please visit: https://www.propharmagroup.com/. ProPharma Media Inquiries and Contacts: Zosya Popik Vice President, Global Marketing ProPharma zosya.popik@propharmagroup.com Steve Rensi Senior Director, Global Brand Strategy & Communications ProPharma steve.rensi@propharmagroup.com Jason Wakeford Associate Partner Clarity for ProPharma propharma@clarity.global The campaign evokes the emotional joy visitors find here. San Francisco will always be San Francisco. It is ever-changing, but the feeling of San Francisco remains constant. Its epic beauty, iconic landmarks, diverse people, and larger-than-life moments stay with you forever. The San Francisco Travel Association has launched its largest-ever global marketing and advertising campaign, Always San Francisco, to promote tourism to the city. The multi-million-dollar campaign targets leisure travelers and meeting planners in major domestic markets and key international markets. It is the destination marketing organizations first campaign to include television advertising. Celebrating the citys bold, inviting, and playful ethos, the Always San Francisco campaign features iconic locations visitors already connect to San Franciscothe Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, and Lombard Streetand ones that showcase the citys vibrant neighborhoods and the diversity of visitor experiences. The campaign also includes cameos by San Franciscans, such as Lady Camden of RuPauls Drag Race fame, artist Sirron Norris, dancers from the acclaimed AXIS Dance Company, musicians Mae Powell and Michael OKonis, Chinatown lion dancers, and chefs from Michelin-starred Angler, to represent the talent and inclusivity the city champions. This is the largest campaign San Francisco Travel has ever launched due to the incredible support from the City and County of San Francisco, Visit California, and other stakeholders, said San Francisco Travel President and CEO Joe DAlessandro. Tourism is vital to the citys economic recovery, and Always San Francisco is designed to drive increased visitation by showing the authentic San Francisco experience people love and dream about. San Francisco Travel Chief Marketing Officer Lynn Bruni-Perkins said, The campaign evokes the emotional joy visitors find here. San Francisco will always be San Francisco. It is ever-changing, but the feeling of San Francisco remains constant. Its epic beauty, iconic landmarks, diverse people, and larger-than-life moments stay with you forever. To match the powerful and inspiring imagery, San Francisco Travel collaborated with local and San Francisco-connected musicians to reimagine Judy Garlands beloved rendition of the classic San Francisco song for its campaign video. We chose a soundtrack that matched the campaigns energy and uplifting message and tapped into San Franciscos legendary local music scene to reimagine the song, said Bruni-Perkins. The result is a beautiful artistic collaboration true to San Franciscos spirit. Campaign assets will appear in high-impact media, such as linear TV (traditional TV), connected TV (CTV), and digital out-of-home (DOOH) in New York City, Chicago, Boston, Washington, D.C., and Houston. The campaign will also have a robust digital media layer through programmatic advertising, video ads, paid social media, OTA partnerships, and earned media. A consumer sweepstakes contest in the U.S. featuring five San Francisco experiences, including an ultimate package with exclusive access to attractions and activities, will launch in the coming months. The domestic campaign runs from May 30 to Oct. 22. Internationally, Always San Francisco digital marketing campaigns will run in Australia, India, Asia Pacific, Europe, Canada, and Mexico. The $6 million+ campaign is funded by a sub-grant from Visit California, a grant from San Franciscos Office of Economic and Workforce Development, San Francisco Travel, and industry stakeholders. San Franciscos tourism industry has steadily recovered since the citys reopening in 2021. This year, San Francisco Travel has forecasted 23.9 million visitor arrivals and visitor spending of $8.9 billion, an increase of $1 billion compared to 2022. To view the campaign video, visit http://www.alwaysf.com. Locals and travelers are encouraged to engage and follow along using the hashtag #AlwaysSF. SAN FRANCISCO TRAVEL The San Francisco Travel Association is the official destination marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco. The city is one of the top tourism and meetings destinations in the U.S. and received 21.9 million visitors in 2022. Total tourism spending in 2022 exceeded $7.7 billion. The tourism industry is the largest generator of outside revenue into San Franciscos economy and supports over 53,000 jobs. For information on reservations, activities and more in San Francisco, visit http://www.sftravel.com. Follow San Francisco Travel on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/onlyinSF/), Instagram (http://www.instagram.com/onlyinsf/), and Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/onlyinsf). Hashtags are #sftravel and #AlwaysSF. SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT SFO is excited to welcome travelers back to the skies with an airport experience featuring seamless access, thoughtful amenities, sustainable design and inspiring artwork and exhibits. For up-to-the-minute departure and arrival information, airport maps and details on shopping, dining, cultural exhibitions, ground transportation and more, visit https://www.flysfo.com/. Follow us on twitter.com/flysfo and facebook.com/flysfo. United Airlines is the preferred airline of the San Francisco Travel Association. # # # Image Links and Information: Portrait by Horace Brazelton taken in his studio. Brazelton, a trailblazing business owner and prominent community leader, actively worked towards empowering the Black community amidst Jim Crow laws in the South. This summer, the remarkable life and contributions of Horace Brazelton (1877 1956) are the subject of a public exhibit titled, Through the Lens: The Life and Legacy of Horace Brazelton. Curated by historian Stefanie Haire, the exhibit, hosted by Ruby Falls, shares the groundbreaking career and empowering community leadership of Brazelton. As the first African American to open a professional photography studio in Chattanooga, Horace Brazeltons prolific career photographing middle-class Black communities across the region spanned the first half of the 20th century, 1904 to 1956. His camera lens captured countless portraits of Black families and individuals, as well as Black church, professional and civic groups, at a time when access to photography was limited, and mass media frequently portrayed African Americans unfavorably and inaccurately. About the Exhibition The exhibit features Brazeltons artistic merits as a nationally recognized, award-winning portrait photographer whose work embodied the humanity of the people he depicted, as well as his considerable endeavors as a community leader. During the era of Jim Crow laws in the South, Brazelton supported and invested in Black Chattanoogans. As a proponent of civic responsibility, Brazelton facilitated voter registration drives and voter participation, encouraged property ownership to support community stability, established Black history remembrances, and championed small business development and economic growth in the Black business district located on East 9th Street, now called Martin Luther King Boulevard, and in the surrounding area. Drawing on several years of extensive research, historian and exhibit curator Stefanie Haire presents the exhibition that examines the roots of Brazeltons legacy through his portrait photography and community contributions. Her ongoing research has been in partnership with the Center for Historic Preservation at Middle Tennessee State University and Picnooga (Chattanooga Historical Society), with contributions by Bessie Smith Cultural Center, the Library of Congress, the African American Cemetery Preservation Fund, Presbyterian Historical Society, Waldens Ridge Civic League, Dr. Earnestine Jenkins, River City Company, Emory University, the Chattanooga Public Library, and the Southeast Tennessee Development District. These photos capture more than just simple moments in time, but rather represent hundreds of lives who helped build Chattanooga, and the memory of their legacies, states Stefanie Haire, historian and curator of the exhibit. She adds, the largest body of Mr. Brazeltons portraits remains in private family collections or are now difficult to locate. "Ruby Falls is honored to host this exhibit," says Hugh Morrow, Ruby Falls president and CEO. "Horace Brazelton was truly a talented artist, remarkable entrepreneur and committed community leader. We are delighted and humbled to share his story and contributions." Exhibition Highlights Exhibit highlights include a re-creation of Brazeltons professional photography studio, portrait gallery featuring his work, early 20th century photo enlarging equipment, historical context timeline, and an audio presentation featuring a reading of the 1917 speech Horace Brazelton gave at the annual conference of the National Negro Business League. The exhibition addresses Jim Crow era laws and shares a powerful representation of how the people depicted in Horace Brazelton's Black portraiture differed from mass media's frequent portrayal of African Americans. Visit the Exhibition Exhibit admission is free and open to the public June 7 Sept 15 at Ruby Falls in the circa 1929 castle. Ruby Falls tickets are not required to visit the exhibit. The exhibition is open 8:00 AM 8:00 PM. For more information, visit http://www.rubyfalls.com/special-events/horace-brazelton-exhibit Approved images and press kit: https://bit.ly/BrazeltonExhibit ### About Ruby Falls Ruby Falls is home to the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. Over half a million guests visit the thundering waterfall annually, located 1,120 feet beneath the summit of Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, TN. Committed to cave conservation and environmental sustainability, Ruby Falls is the first attraction in the United States to earn certification from Green Globe and is recognized as a leader in tourism sustainability. http://www.RubyFalls.com If you would like to know more about the Breakfast Republic lawsuit, please contact Attorney Jackland Hom today by calling (619) 255-9047. The San Diego labor law attorneys, at Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, APC, filed a class action complaint against Breakfast Republic Carmel Valley, LLC, Breakfast Republic Encinitas, LLC, Breakfast Republic East Village, LLC, Breakfast Republic Mission Valley, LLC, Breakfast Republic OC, LLC, Breakfast Republic Ocean Beach, LLC, Breakfast Republic West Hollywood, LLC, and Breakfast Republic-Pacific Beach, LP (collectively, hereinafter, "Breakfast Republic") for allegedly failing to provide employees with timely, off-duty meal and rest periods. The Breakfast Republic class action lawsuit, Case No. 37-2022-00005487-CU-OE-CTL, is currently pending in the San Diego County Superior Court of the State of California. A copy of the complaint can be read here. According to the lawsuit, Breakfast Republic allegedly violated California Labor Code Sections 2699, et seq., 201, 202, 203, 204 et seq., 210, 221, 226(a), 226.7, 227.3, 246, 351, 510, 512, 558(a)(1)(2), 1194, 1197, 1197.1, 1198, 2802, California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 11040, Subdivision 5(A)-(B) by failing to: (1) pay minimum wages; (2) pay overtime wages; (3) provide required meal and rest periods; (4) reimburse for required business expenses; (5) provide wages when due; (6) provide accurate itemized wage statements; and (7) provide tips and/or gratuities. The lawsuit also alleges Breakfast Republic violated the Private Attorneys General Act ("PAGA"), which gives rise to civil penalties as a result of Breakfast Republic's conduct. PAGA allows aggrieved employees to file a lawsuit to recover civil penalties on behalf of themselves, other employees, and the State of California for Labor Code violations. An "aggrieved employee" is defined as "any person who was employed by the alleged violator and against whom one or more of the alleged violations was committed." Cal. Lab. Code section 2699(c). PAGA allows aggrieved employees to become deputized as private attorneys general to enforce the Labor Code. If you would like to know more about the Breakfast Republic lawsuit, please contact Attorney Jackland Hom today by calling (619) 255-9047. Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, APC are labor and employment law firms with offices located in California that dedicate their practices to fighting for employees who have been wronged by their employers due to unfair employment practices. Contact one of their attorneys today if you need help with workplace issues regarding wage and hour, wrongful termination, retaliation, discrimination, and harassment. -THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT (Rules Prof. Conduct, rule 7.2)- In 1777, Congress labeled Quakers who would not take up arms in support of the War of Independence as the most Dangerous Enemies America knows and ordered Pennsylvania and Delaware to apprehend them. In response, Keystone State officials sent twenty menseventeen of whom were Quakersinto exile, banishing them to Virginia, where they were held for a year. Prisoners of Congress reconstructs this moment in American history through the experiences of four families: the Drinkers, the Fishers, the Pembertons, and the Gilpins. Identifying them as the new nations first political prisoners, Norman E. Donoghue II relates how the Quakers, once the preeminent power in Pennsylvania and an integral constituency of the colonies and early republic, came to be reviled by patriots who saw refusal to fight the English as borderline sedition. Surprising, vital, and vividly told, this narrative of political and literal warfare waged by the United States against a pacifist religious group during the Revolutionary War era sheds new light on an essential aspect of American history. It will appeal to anyone interested in learning more about the nations founding. Three Shippensburg residents, including a 13-year-old, died in a crash in Virginia early Tuesday, the Roanoke Times reported. The newspaper reported that Virginia State Police said four people three from Shippensburg and one from Reading were traveling in a vehicle that was towing a rented trailer on Interstate 81 in Montgomery County, Virginia. Douangpee Amnatkeo, 54, of Shippensburg, was driving the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox north when he lost control of the vehicle, causing it to spin around and face south in the northbound lanes, according to police. The vehicle was then struck by a by northbound tractor-trailer, the newspaper reported. Amnatkeo died at the scene, as did 13-year-old passenger Ericssan Kathpratoum and Monthy Matnopaseuth, 39, of Reading, the newspaper reported. A third passenger, Samiane Kothpratoum, 37, of Shippensburg, was flown to a nearby hospital where he died. Police told the newspaper that no one in the SUV was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, which is under investigation. In 1924, Connecticut first-grade teacher Gertrude Chandler Warner (18901979) wrote the first version of The Boxcar Children, which she republished 18 years later in a revised edition. The novel introduces the four orphaned Alden siblings, who create a home for themselves in an abandoned boxcar in the forest. The children eventually move in with their wealthy and kind grandfather, who relocates the boxcar to his backyard so the kids can use it as a playhouse. Now the Boxcar Children are moving house once again. Random House Childrens Books has acquired rights to the book property from Albert Whitman & Company, and will begin selling the current Boxcar Children titles immediately. Details of the companys plans to expand the series with new publishing projects, to be released under the Random House Books for Young Readers imprint, will be announced at a later date. Random House did not reveal the purchase price for the property. Following her debut novel, Warner went on to write 18 more Boxcar Children adventures, after which other authors began contributing to the series. There are currently 160 core Boxcar Children installments and multiple miniseries, for a total of nearly 230 titles in print. Embraced by teachers, parents, librarians, and generations of young readers across the globe, the Boxcar Children books have sold more than 80 million copies worldwide. I've had the opportunity over the years, working with Albert Whitman and team, to see firsthand how the Boxcar mysteries inspire, comfort, and entertain young readers, Barbara Marcus, RHCB president and publisher, said in a statement. We are so happy to now have the Boxcar series at Random House Childrens Books and look forward to carrying this beloved series forward for children, parents, and educators. Pat McPartland and John Quattrocchi, co-owners of Albert Whitman & Company, expressed certainty that the Alden children and their legacy will be in good hands. Our company has been honored to share Gertrude Chandler Warners stories with children for the last six decades, they said in a joint statement. We have decided to transition ownership of the Boxcar Children series to Random House Childrens Books. We know they will continue the work of Warner with care and creativity. We feel confident that entrusting Penguin Random House with the beloved Boxcar Children is the right direction for the series and will ensure the stories are shared with future generations of readers. The Shed Vapes has done it again. For the third year in a row, the business earned Best Parkland Vape Shop. The business also earned another award: Best Specialty Shop-Farmington. The Shed Vapes, located on Hillsboro Road, is a wholesale vapor shop that started in Stan Janis kitchen in 2018 before moving to a small building on his property. The business celebrates its five-year anniversary this month. Co-owners Janis and Jordan Wood moved to a brand-new building twice the size of their former location. The extra space allowed them to expand their inventory to carry more disposables than any other vape shop in the area. They included an old general store countertop which was built in the 1940s and purchased from Forever Antiques. They also added a deck with chairs, large parking lot, and an area with two church pews where customers can set up their vape equipment. We do most of our shopping locally and try to support local businesses, said Janis. We hired local people to do the painting and insulating of our new building. If we see one of our customers advertising their business, we try to utilize their services in some way. Janis and Wood have a simple mission: to help people quit smoking and find alternatives to tobacco at an affordable price. We are wholesale to the public, which is about half the cost of a retail vape shop, and we only sell quality products, said Janis. The Shed Vapes sells their products for little to no profit, which allows people to have an inexpensive option to help them quit smoking. Any profit the store receives is used to help area law enforcement agencies, fire departments, military charities and other community groups with fundraising. They recently purchased thermal imaging cameras for the Park Hills police and fire departments; supported Shop with a Cop; donated money for the improvement of the St. Francois County Raceway; and helped a family member travel to see his younger brother who was going through cancer treatments. The business is purchasing a thermal imaging camera for the local parks service and is sponsoring the St. Francois County Fair and the Country Days marketplace. Its all about giving back to the community, said Janis. The staff is adding a pickleball court and vaping lounge with picnic tables, TV, gaming system and snacks. We are fair with people on cost, said Janis, and we teach new customers how to use equipment and will help them with an alternative to smoking, eventually working with customers to quit vaping as well. Janis said the staff prioritizes their customer service by teaching and sup-porting their customers through their journey to a safer alternative to tobacco products. The Shed Vapes carries more than 200 brands and flavors of ejuice and the latest in vaping equipment. Janis and Wood are grateful for the support theyve received from their faithful customers. Thank you for the votes and for the confidence and support of The Shed Vapes, said Janis. It means a lot to us and is very much appreciated. It also helps a lot of people. We are here for the community, and we hope that we help them in their journey with a safer alternative to tobacco products. The Shed Vapes staff includes Janis and Wood; Gage Lee as store manager; and employees Mikel Blount and Logan Johnson. The staff plans to celebrate their fifth anniversary with customers at their July Customer Appreciation Day and grand reopening. The Shed Vapes 5628 Hillsboro Road, Farmington Hours of operation: Monday through Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. Phone: 314-471-5453 Facebook and Instagram: TheShedVapes Qatar's Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has announced that all the vaccinations required for Hajj or Umrah are available free of charge to people in all of its 31 health centers in various regions across the country. The announcement was made through the PHCC's Department of Communicable Diseases of the Department of Infection Control. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia, in a bid to return to pre-pandemic conditions, has not imposed any restrictions on the number of pilgrims this year. The ministry also indicated that there are no age restrictions in place for pilgrims. People who wish to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah this year should have taken no less than two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. Pilgrims from outside Saudi Arabia must provide a valid vaccination certificate proving receipt of the required vaccinations. The PHCC said that the vaccinations should be completed at least 10 days or more before travelling to Saudi Arabia. On May 17, the president of Ecuador, Guillermo Lasso, dissolved the country's legislature in the midst of impeachment proceedings against him. Did Ecuador just have a self-coup? Opposition leaders say yes. But the answer is no, at least for now. This matters greatly for the country's democratic trajectory and for the international community's response. The Rise of Self-Coups After a recent lull, coups and coup attempts are front-page news again, from Sudan to Brazil to the United States. This surge in coup activity prompted Antonio Guterres, the United Nations chief, to decry an epidemic of coups. Perhaps more troublingly for democracy worldwide, coups-plotters have evolved. Scholars have traditionally defined ( PDF ) coups as: overt attempts by the military or other elites within the state apparatus to unseat the sitting head of state using unconstitutional means. But now, these softer, more-subtle self-coupswhereby a sitting chief executive uses sudden and irregular (i.e., illegal or unconstitutional) measures to seize power or dismantle checks and balanceshave become the new mode of coup. Self-coups, also known as auto-coups, are much more sophisticated than soldiers in fatigues taking television stations by force in order to announce the overthrow of a country's leader. Self-coups are rarely bloody, but can be just as harmful to democracy as the more-traditional military overthrows. Self-coups are rarely bloody, but can be just as harmful to democracy as the more-traditional military overthrows. Share on Twitter A raft of countries have experienced successful self-coups or coup attempts of late. There have been nine successful or attempted self-coups over the last decade, according to the Cline Center at the University of Illinois, which collects comprehensive information on all types of coups around the world. Self-coup illegal power grabs have occurred across a range of regions and political systems, including in semi-autocracies, such as Pakistan in 2022, as well as semi-democracies, like Tunisia in 2021. Worryingly, full democracies have not been immune to this trend, with the United States suffering a failed self-coup at the hands of President Trump on January 6th, 2021, which the Cline Center labeled an auto-coup. Lasso's Action Was Extraordinary but Constitutional Ecuador has been lauded as a strong partner of the United States in a region that has experienced democratic backsliding. Yet the country has recently experienced a host of crises on Lasso's watch, including rising crime, corruption scandals, government crackdowns on the media, and protests that have often turned violent. The current impasse is the opposition's second attempt at impeachment. Is Lasso's dissolution of Ecuador's National Assembly the latest example of a self-coup? Leonidas Iza Salazar, the head of the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities, which has led a series of protests against the president over the last several years, says yes. On May 17, Iza Salazar accused Lasso of launching a cowardly self-coup with the help of the police and the armed forces, without citizen support. Viviana Veloz, the opposition lawmaker leading the impeachment, said: The only way out is the impeachment and exit of the president of the republic, Guillermo Lasso. Lasso defended his decision as a chance at a fresh start and a way to resolve recent political turmoil. Lasso proclaimed that the dissolution was the best decision to find a constitutional way out of the political crisisand give the people of Ecuador the chance to decide their future at the next elections. Lasso's decree calls on the country's electoral authorities to set a date for fresh elections, now set for August 20, and allows him to govern with limited powers and without the National Assembly until these new elections. The measure is referred to as a mutual-death clause, since it leads to new elections for both the sitting president as well as the legislature. Lasso has promised that he will not seek reelection in the coming polls. There is little question that dissolving the legislature during his embezzlement impeachment trial and slumping political support is an opportunistic move by Lasso. Yet while Lasso's action was indeed extraordinaryit is the first time this constitutional provision has been used since it was adopted in 2008it is legal, at least so far. On May 18, the country's constitutional court upheld the decision, dismissing six cases aimed at blocking the legislature's dissolution. This means that Lasso's maneuver does not yet fit the irregular provision that must be fulfilled to meet the definition of a coup, including a self-coup. Getting It Right in Ecuador This coup or not a coup distinction matters greatly for Ecuador's democratic future, and should guide how the international community responds. If Lasso's action did indeed fit the worrying rise of self-coups globally, it would be dire for Ecuador's prospects for democracy, and likely plunge it towards autocracy. International actors would need to condemn the coup, push for regional and global sanctions, and apply strong pressure to reverse Lasso's illegal power grab. The coup or not a coup distinction matters greatly for Ecuador's democratic future, and should guide how the international community responds. Share on Twitter Since Lasso's decree is unusual but legal, Ecuador's shaky democracywhich democracy watchers rate ( PDF ) as falling short of a full democracyis on precarious, but at least constitutional footing, for now. At this precarious moment, the United States and other like-minded, pro-democracy countries should not sit idly by. While fully recognizing the country's own struggles with incumbent power grabs, the United States should urge Lasso to strictly keep to the letter and spirit of the law, reign in the security forcesensuring their political impartialityand ramp up support to help Ecuador arrange free and fair elections in the coming months. The role of the military along with unified international pressure has proved crucial to stopping or reversing past self-coups around the world. The current situation in Ecuador fortunately does not yet fit that definition. But the international community would be wise to actively keep it that way, first by strongly and consistently reminding Lassoand other key regional partnersthat the world is watching, and by also increasing democracy support to Ecuador ahead of the coming polls. Alexander Noyes is a political scientist at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation and former senior advisor in the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Policy. This commentary originally appeared on Political Violence at a Glance on May 31, 2023. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis. The newly released National Defense Science and Technology Strategy ( PDF )developed collaboratively by the U.S. military services, the U.S. Office of the Secretary of Defense, and U.S. partners and alliesstresses the need for a rigorous analytical approach to building enduring advantages for the U.S. Joint Force in a resource-constrained environment. Released in May, the strategy underscores the need for a methodological process to identify and prioritize investments in military capabilities with the greatest potential to meet current and future warfighting needs. Such a process will require analysts to harness the analytic power of modeling and simulation to assess which emerging technologies offer the greatest operational values for the available resource investments. Meeting the Pentagon's goals to invest efficiently in military capabilities calls for a methodological process hinging on five key elements: aligning strategies with tasks, understanding what drives military innovation, embracing specificity in problem-solving, preparing for an unknown future, and assessing technology investments for prioritization. Meeting the Pentagon's goals to invest efficiently in military capabilities calls for a methodological process hinging on five key elements. Share on Twitter The first element is applying the strategies-to-tasks framework. This framework aligns operational resources with strategic objectives through a hierarchical approach. In other words, the framework traces the connections from overarching objectives and strategies, defined by the highest leadership, down to the operational tasks performed by military units. This systematic approach ensures that strategy at one level translates into objectives at the next-lower level, thereby creating a hierarchy of objectives. The second element is understanding what drives military innovation. History has shown that significant innovation within the Department of Defense (DoD) begins with strategic thinkingthat is, innovation is often driven by the identification of strategically significant operational issues that need resolution. Conversely, innovation usually fails to occur when the DoD fails to recognize the connection between a strategic and an operational problem. The third element is the need for specificity in the operational problems to be solved. Precise problem definitions facilitate focused discussions and effective strategizing. A problem-specific approach not only addresses the operational challenges more accurately but also aids in identifying the key impediments to resolution, which in turn allows for the development of technological innovations that can ensure long-term operational resilience. The fourth elementpreparing for an unknown futureacknowledges that when making predictions about the future, one must be careful ( PDF ) not to be too wrong. It is imperative that military planners be adaptable and prepared for a wide array of plausible futures rather than fixate on a single most likely prediction. It is crucial for military strategists to be flexible and devise plans that are robust to a range of possible scenarios. Finally, effective analytic methodologies must be employed to assess and prioritize alternative technology investments, because scarce resources must be efficiently directed toward technologies with the greatest potential for impact. These assessments depend on the use of validated analyses, modeling, and simulations to compare the performance of emerging technologies against existing ones. By combining these five elements, a comprehensive approach to overcoming the complexities of tomorrow's battlefield can be pursued. And the call put forth by the new National Defense Science and Technology Strategy can be answered by embracing the types of rigorous analysis, comparative methodologies, and forward-thinking strategies that are necessary to build enduring advantages for the U.S. Joint Force. Christopher Mouton is acting director of the Acquisition and Technology Policy Program, part of the RAND National Security Research Division. He is also a senior engineer at the RAND Corporation, and a professor at the Pardee RAND Graduate School. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis. After months of publicly lobbying to acquire U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets, it appears that Ukraine may receive them later this year. Several NATO countries that operate F-16s, including Poland, have indicated that they are willing to train Ukrainian pilots, and on May 19, President Joe Biden told the G-7 meeting, at which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was a guest, that the United States would support training Ukrainian pilots to fly the aircraft. Reports based on leaked documents revealed that the U.S. Air Force estimated that such training would take only four months. However, there remains a long road ahead before the F-16s would see service in Ukraineand it is an open question how much they would affect the outcome of the war. First there is the question of where the aircraft would come from. The most likely candidates appear to be aircraft recently retired by the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway. These are F-16AM/BM aircraft that were acquired in the 1980s and upgraded in the 1990s, high-mileage aircraft with aging radars, but their software allows them to employ some of the most modern weapons in NATO inventory. This includes the AIM-120 air-to-air missile and the stealthy long-range Joint Air-to-Surface Stand-off Missile (JASSM). Once Ukraine has the aircraft, they must be able to operate, maintain, and sustain them, and there are challenges to each. A March 2023 study ( PDF ) by the Congressional Research Service identified several crucial conditions necessary to successfully field F-16s. Many of these concern the supply chain for the aircraft: acquiring sufficient spare parts, allocating funding for operations and support, implementing a maintenance inventory system, training maintainers, and acquiring an ongoing supply of weapons with which to arm their F-16s. It seems highly unlikely that F-16s will change the balance on the battlefield any time soon. Share on Twitter All of this means that the situation is far more complicated than simply training Ukrainian pilots and delivering a handful of well-used F-16s. These issues must be addressed if Ukraine wants to be able to consistently fly them. Without plans to support these aircraft, they will break down rapidly and become expensive stationary targets for Russian air-to-surface missiles. Doing things the right way takes time: Ukraine likely won't be able to deploy F-16s operationally until the end of the year, if not later. Even with adequate supply and maintenance, the F-16 isn't plug-and-play. Like any complex weapons system, it was designed to fulfill a particular set of roles within an existing military structure with a unique doctrine and culture. To get the most out of the airplanes, the Ukrainians will have to adopt more of the practices and techniques inherent to the plane's design. The F-16 was designed to help the U.S. Air Force beat the Russian Air Force. The more the Ukrainians can fly them like the U.S. Air Force would, the better. The public also might have excessive expectations for what the F-16 can accomplish. It was designed to be a lightweight, multi-role fighter capable of doing many missions well, but not to be the best at any of them. In a few ways, it's worse than current Ukrainian fighters. For example, F-16s were never intended to be operated from improvised airfields where they run a much greater risk of ingesting debris into their engines. Anyone who remembers Sully Sullenberger has some idea of how that can turn out. Another area where they are at a disadvantage to the latest Russian aircraft is air-to-air combat. Large Russian air superiority fighters such as the MiG-31 and Su-35 can see significantly farther with their powerful, modern radars. They also have R-37 missiles that have a much longer range than NATO-supplied AIM-120 AMRAAMs. In other words, Russian aircraft can potentially spot Ukrainian F-16s and shoot them down before the Ukrainian pilots see them coming. This is exactly what has been happening with Ukraine's current fleet of Su-27 and MiG-29 fighters, and the improved capabilities of the F-16 are not enough to tilt this disparity in Ukraine's favor. Because of the reach of Russian air superiority fighters, Ukrainian fighter pilots often break off missions early, or operate far behind their own front lines. F-16s would operate with the same constraints, limiting their ability to perform air-to-surface missions with relatively short-range weapons like the JDAM bomb guidance kits already supplied by the United States (and reportedly being jammed by the Russians). In total, it seems highly unlikely that F-16s will change the balance on the battlefield any time soon. The airspace over Ukraine will remain contested and Ukraine's ground forces will still need to rely on Ukraine's existing air platformsincluding dronesfor air support. In the long run, however, there are significant logistical and tactical advantages to Ukraine's acquiring F-16s. It will be easier for Ukraine to sustain aircraft whose parts are supplied by the United States and NATO countries than their legacy aircraft manufactured by Russia. It also could make it easier for Ukraine to integrate their air force into NATO at some future date. The more Ukraine's arsenal is compatible with NATO's, the better. Ukraine was previously given AGM-88 High-Speed Anti-Radiation Missiles (HARM) for use against ground-based radars. They managed to MacGyver the system onto their MiG-29s, but the retrofitting was far from ideal, as Soviet-era fighters were never designed to fire U.S.-made missiles. F-16s with updated software will enable Ukraine to employ HARM more effectively, along with other weapons that were designed to be used by F-16s. Other air-to-air weapons systems commonly available to F-16s, such as the AIM-9 Sidewinder and the AIM-120 (which presumably the United States and NATO will provide), will be useful for defending Ukraine against Russian cruise missiles (e.g. Kh-101 and Kh-555) and Iranian-made Shahed-131/136 drones. Ukraine's stockpiles of Soviet-era S-300 surface-to-air missiles has been dwindling, and there are a limited number of Patriot missiles available. The F-16's air-to-air capability will help those ground-based defenses last longer. It is an open question whether the United States will supply JASSM to Ukraine, but it would not be unprecedented. Britain provided Storm Shadow air-launched cruise missiles and Ukraine has already used them. Storm Shadow is broadly similar to the baseline version of JASSM in terms of size, range, employment, and observability, so providing JASSM would not constitute an escalation nor cross a Russian red line. F-16s likely will not grant Ukraine air superiority, but they will facilitate the defense of their air space. F-16s loaded with JASSM could be critical to Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov's stated long-term plan to re-take Crimea without a fight. Executing this would require cutting off Russian troops in Crimea from their supply lines via the Kerch Strait Bridge, ports like Sevastopol, and the land route from Rostov-on-Don. JASSM could give Ukraine the ability to consistently hit logistics hubs such as port facilities, ammunition depots, bridges, and command and control facilities deep within Crimea. It could also serve as a stand-in for the ground launched ATACMS missile (which Ukraine has unsuccessfully requested). The United States has significantly more JASSMs than ATACMS, so it might be willing to supply them to augment Storm Shadow. In the final analysis, Ukraine is unlikely to be fielding F-16s until late in the yearcertainly not in time for the anticipated spring offensive. F-16s likely will not grant Ukraine air superiority, but they will facilitate the defense of their air space and, if paired with JASSM, provide an important launch vehicle for the type of long-range weapons necessary for their plans to force Russia out of Crimea. While F-16s are by no means a wonder weapon that will turn the tide of the war, they will help Ukraine adopt more-Western styles of warfightingor force it toand help its military cooperate better with those of NATO. Unlike the previous provisions of anti-tank missiles, artillery, armored vehicles, and air defenses, the decision to give Ukraine F-16s is not about helping it survive the next phase of the war, but helping it ensure its sovereignty in the long term. Brynn Tannehill is a former aviator in the U.S. Navy and a senior technical analyst at the RAND Corporation. This commentary originally appeared on The Bulwark on May 30, 2023. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis. President Biden has vowed to be the most pro-union president in history. And one sector over which he has a lot of control is said to be bucking the decades-long trend of union decline in a big way: The ranks of unionized federal government employees swelled by nearly 80,000 to about 497,000 dues-paying members a 20 percent increase according to an Office of Personnel Management spokesman. But in reporting this story, RealClearInvestigations found cause for doubt: Publicly available figures on federal union membership including those federal employee unions themselves report by law look far less impressive than the Biden administrations data. The White House touted this trend in a March update on the work of Vice President Kamala Harriss White House Task Force on Worker Organization and Empowerment. The two largest such unions, which account for more than three-quarters of the reported nearly 500,000 unionized federal employees, are the American Federation of Government Employees and the National Treasury Employees Union. James Sherk, a labor economist who served on the Trump administrations domestic policy council, told RCI the figures from the two unions were highly inconsistent with those of the Biden administration. The National Treasury Employees Union reported 82,860 members in 2022, up marginally from its 2021 membership number of 79,787. The net increase in membership across these two unions, therefore, totaled just 0.6%. In 2022, the American Federation reported 298,102 such employees on its Form LM-2, a legally required annual financial disclosure report filed with the U.S. Department of Labor. This represented a slight decline from its 2021 membership number of 298,873. Consequently, these sources report significantly different numbers when it comes to foundational statistics such as unionized federal employees and total federal employees. The Bureau of Labor Statistics derives its unionization data from its Current Population Survey , which samples about 60,000 eligible households, whereas the Office of Personnel Management collects data directly from government agencies and payroll providers. Still more basic differences between these data sources produce more murkiness than clarity. But UnionStats.com, a database put together by academics analyzing Current Population Survey data, found that by removing postal service workers, the number of unionized federal employees increased by only 1% from 2021 to 2022. OPM, the federal governments chief human resources agency, says the numbers at issue are apples and oranges: BLS data includes other categories of employees not counted in OPMs data, such as the hundreds of thousands of postal employees represented by labor unions, as they are not covered by OPMs worker organizing and empowerment guidance, an Office of Personnel Management spokesman explained. The bureau reported only a 21,000-worker increase in federal union employment up just 2.2% between 2021 and 2022. The White Houses unionization figures also do not seem to jibe with those of the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In an email, an agency spokesman replied that OPM is provided aggregate level data for the Executive Branch through payroll providers. OPM has not been provided data by union. RCI asked the Office of Personnel Management, which compiled the figures reported by the White House, if it could provide a breakdown of membership gains by union to help reconcile this seeming discrepancy. Unless youve got some minor unions doubling or more their membership while nothing similar is happening with the largest unions, Sherk said, theres just no way to make the math work. ... combining with the No. 2 union for a membership increase of just 0.6%. A unionization rise of less than one-half of one percent: from union financial transparency reports filed with the Department of Labor (form LM-2). Data available online at www.unionreports.gov After RCI initially contacted Sherk in connection with this story, the labor expert, now a director at the America First Policy Institute, investigated for himself the seeming incongruity between the Biden White House figures and the unions reported figures. On May 3, Sherk published a report on the seven largest exclusively federal unions with 413,000 employees, nearly equal to the 417,000 federal employees the OPM reported as members of unions in 2021. It found those unions experienced an increase of a mere 1,500 members, or less than one-half of one percent, between 2021 and 2022. After completing his analysis, Sherk told RCI: I suspect the White House knows their figures are wrong but doesnt want to admit it. The Office of Personnel Management did not reply to RCIs multiple requests for clarification on the Biden administrations figures. Nor did the vice presidents office. When asked whether it was seeing increases in federal unionization rates consistent with those reported by the administration, a spokesman for the American Federation of Government Employees told RCI: Since the toughest days for federal sector union organizing during the union-busting Trump administration, AFGE has gone from organizing between 2,500-3,500 new members per month to organizing between 4,000-5,500 new members per month. Because there is a tremendous amount of churn in an employer as big as the federal government, we also lose a significant number of members each month due to promotions, retirements, and other routine changes in employment. However, AFGE has had net growth for 11 of the past 12 months. The last two months weve had net gains of over 1,000 members per month, and this month were on track for the same. In short, the spokesman concluded, were seeing a much better environment for union organizing in the federal sector due to a host of factors, including actions taken by the Biden administration, and were proud to be a growing union. The National Treasury Employees Union did not respond to a similar inquiry. Reform and Counter-Reform But the iffy numbers dont mean the Biden administration isnt trying hard to grow the ranks of unionized federal employees. It has launched myriad initiatives including an extensive Know Your Rights effort aimed at promoting unionization to new and existing employees, and made it easier for organizers to operate on federal property and federally controlled spaces. These efforts flow from the Task Forces final report, which proposed 70 strategies to reduce barriers to worker organizing in all sectors all of which the president approved. From its earliest days, the Biden administration established its broader mission to protect, empower, and rebuild the career Federal workforce in a Jan. 22, 2021 executive order. That order called for the federal government to encourage union organizing and collective bargaining. The order also reversed efforts of the Trump administration seen as detrimental to federal labor unions. Philip K. Howard: When it comes to federal employees, due process is code for you can never get fired. Among the measures Biden immediately rescinded were a trio of executive orders dating back to 2018 that the Trump administration said would make it easier to remove poor-performing employees and ensure that taxpayer dollars are more efficiently used. One order sought to reduce the time by which federal employees could be paid for union work while on the clock, and another to streamline the federal sector collective bargaining process. Federal labor unions cried foul, with then-president of the American Federation of Government Employees J. David Cox calling the orders retribution on an apolitical civil service workforce, and his National Treasury Employees Union counterpart Tony Reardon describing the orders as an assault on federal employees. Perhaps more significantly, Biden also rescinded a still more ambitious October 2020 executive order Creating Schedule F in the Excepted Service. That order called for agency heads to re-classify career federal employees in positions of a confidential, policy-determining, policy-making, or policy-advocating character as Schedule F employees. This would have made it significantly easier for the president to remove employees deemed ineffective or actively opposed to the policies of the administration stripping them of civil service protections that critics argue make federal employees nearly invincible, and treating them more like at-will employees. Philip K. Howard, author of the recent book Not Accountable: Rethinking the Constitutionality of Public Employee Unions, told RCI that because of the procedures built into the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, 99% of all federal employees get a fully successful job rating because if you put anything negative in a filethe employee has a right to file a grievance and the union will defend [them] and the supervisor has tojustify it [derogatory ratings] in hearings before arbitrators. Federal unions contend that such civil service protections are about ensuring due process. Due process, says Howard is code for you can never get fired. He has cited as an example an EPA employee caught red-handed surfing porn sites in his cubicle, [who] was paid for almost two years until he made a deal to retire. Trumps Schedule F effort also drew the ire of critics, with the National Treasury Employees Union filing suit. A Decidedly Skeptical GOP Field He's looking for the chance to say "You're fired" again -- to federal employees. As a 2024 presidential candidate, Trump has suggested that he would revive the executive order, making up to 50,000 federal workers fireable in a bid to combat a bureaucracy he sees as intransigent to him and his policy goals. Other prominent Republicans have indicated their desire to exert greater control over the federal bureaucracy as well, with recent Republican presidential candidate Florida Governor Ron DeSantis explicitly expressing his support for the creation of a Schedule F earlier this year. RCI sought comment from other Republican presidential candidates regarding their views on civil service reform. Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley told RCI: We must always remember that federal workers are paid by taxpayers. The Biden hyper-unionization approach hurts taxpayers and doesnt help federal workers. It only helps Democratic politicians who raise big money from big union bosses. Her fellow South Carolinian, Sen. Tim Scott, has long been a proponent of right-to-work legislation and school choice positions disfavored by public sector unions. An indicator of former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinsons position on public-sector unions can be seen in his signing of a 2021 bill prohibiting state employees from collectively bargaining. And in a recent podcast interview with Howard, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy called the administrative state the single greatest threat to our constitutional republic. Consistent with the wishes of the Biden administration, congressional Democrats have sought to pre-empt any future Schedule F push through barring it legislatively, while Republican counterparts have introduced even more ambitious legislation aimed at making all executive branch employees at-will. The Cash Cow of Union Dues Federal unions, first granted the power to organize via an executive order issued by President John F. Kennedy in 1962, overwhelmingly contribute to Democrats, though at lower levels than unions representing state and local employees. And the White House Task Force sees opportunity to grow that power base: OPMs FedScope database says only a little more than half of all 2.2 million non-postal civilian federal employees belong to one of about 70 unions totals that have held steady since the Trump administration. In the 2022 election cycle the American Federation of Government Employees and National Treasury Employees Union contributed a combined $2.4 million to federal candidates, parties, and outside groups more than 95% of which went to Democrats. By contrast, the National Education Association made more than $23 million in political contributions, just under 99% of which went to Democrats, according to OpenSecrets. The sums spent annually on political activities and lobbying among federal employee unions are significant. The American Federation of Government Employees reported $6.3 million in disbursements on political activities in lobbying during 2022, and the National Treasury Employees Union reported $3.6 million. To the extent the unionized federal worker population increases, this would mean more money in unions coffers to support Democrats and shared causes political support funded by taxpayers. The consequence, says Sean Higgins of the libertarian Competitive Enterprise Institute, is that federal union growth will make any future effort to rein in the regulatory state that much harder. Unions will step in to protect the status quo since any change will likely mean fewer members, and therefore less revenue and power, for the union. Jason Briefel, director of Government & Public Affairs at Shaw Bransford & Roth, and editor-in-chief of the FEDagent and FEDmanager newsletters, told RCI, The Biden administration has bent over backward to help preferred employee organizations succeed directly assisting federal employee unions in growing their membership ranks as a reward for partisan political support. This behavior came to the fore when the National Federation of Federal Employees website put out a press release thanking the Biden administration for helping it recruit more federal workers only to later pull the document down. Mark Mix, President of the National Right to Work Committee, added that making this blatant political backscratching even more egregious is the fact that at the federal level taxpayers already fund federal union activities to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars through the corrupt practice of official time, in which union officials who are ostensibly employed by the government are paid with tax dollars to conduct union business. The other more fundamental problem, Mix adds is that increased union control over government workers is fundamentally anti-democratic, forcing future administrations to bargain with union officials who are completely unaccountable to citizens over how public policy is enacted. Briefel concurs, noting that This behavior seems contrary to the idea of a democratic government that treats all citizens and groups equally. It is also contrary to the merit system, which judges an employees worthnot based on their partisan affiliationbut on their skills and abilities. Government Shutdown Politics For their part, federal unions seem to be gearing up for a fight one they will perhaps be better equipped to win should the Biden administrations efforts to swell their ranks bear fruit. That would be welcome news for them at a time when the U.S. unionization rate has fallen to an all-time low 10.1% in 2022 with private sector rates remaining particularly depressed despite widely covered unionization efforts at Apple, Amazon and Starbucks, and the organizing efforts of journalists providing such coverage. In February, Everett Kelley, president of the American Federation of Government Employees, warned about the fight ahead, referring to House Republicans when he said, If these extremists want to cut any of these essential government functions, were going to rise up and alert the American people of the harm theyre threatening. He added, If they force another shutdown, well rise up and remind people about what we do, why its so important to their lives, and why these maniacs, if you will, must be held accountable. We must go on offense. In April, his organization would pan House Republicans debt ceiling proposal, as would the National Treasury Employees Union. As the debt ceiling fight intensified, another federal union, the National Association of Government Employees, filed suit challenging the law capping government debt and seeking to prevent the Biden administration from defunding any federal government operations absent congressional direction. A debt ceiling-related fight may be averted, but federal employee unions aggressive posture may still bear out in appropriations debates. In fact, unions such as the American Federation of Government Employees have even taken issue with Democrat proposals, for example urging a wage increase to 8.7% from the 5.2% figure called for in President Bidens fiscal year 2024 budget. Briefel sees partisan differences over federal unions to be the ultimate stumbling block to needed congressional reform. Republicans center discussions around accountability and refuse most reforms that come with a price tag, and union-backed Democrats refuse to open the door on accountability," he said. "In the end, neither party has an incentive to work together on these issues. Editor's note: This article is a collaboration between RealClearInvestigations and Soldier of Fortune magazine, with Heath Hansen of SOF on the border. CORONADO NATIONAL FOREST, Ariz. As blazing sunlight ebbs to a star-studded sky along the U.S.-Mexico border, members of the Arizona Border Recon group peer through field glasses at a trio of men on the southern side in camouflage fatigues and carrying pistols and AK-47s. Heath Hansen, a military and police veteran, joined with Arizona Border Recon on assignment for Soldier of Fortune and RealClearInvestigations. The men, almost certainly members of Sinaloa cartel factions, are using their own binoculars to scan random gaps in a roughly 30-foot-high wall of thick metal bars that stretches for miles along a flatland carved by arroyos and dotted with rocks, saguaro cactus and high grasses. At times, a solo gunshot echoes on the Mexican side, a sound the AZBR knows from experience is a signal to people to start moving north. There are chiefly two types of people AZBR teams have encountered filtering into the United States. Some of them carry packs filled with canned food, cookies and blankets. But others trek lugging much larger packs and no such rations or equipment indications their cargo is a more illicit sort. The AZBR is a private group with no authority to arrest the mules, but for years its members have run patrols and cameras along the hundreds of trails and washes that web an area the group has dubbed Babys Head Gap. It is so named for a Mexican dolls head atop a spike in the desert, an apparent warning to anyone wanting to cross that passage is done only with the cartels permission. The uneven landscape, with ravine ridges marked by trees and bushes running along the top, offers low visibility for Sinaloa cartel agents carrying fentanyl, as well as for AZBR teams out on days-long operations during which they share intelligence and photos with U.S. officials. The presence of U.S. authorities in this open, gashed wasteland is light; on a recent operation AZBR members saw an occasional Blackhawk helicopter dart across the sky, but there were no foot patrols. At least in the area they patrol, AZBR leaders agree with former U.S. Border Patrol Chief Rodney Scott, who told a House committee on May 23 that Mexican drug cartels control everything that crosses that Southwest border, including illegal migrant crossings that create gaps in border security. Because they have no law enforcement power and carry weapons only for self-defense, AZBR members are more witnesses to the disintegrating border than a force of deterrence. Arizona Border Recon patrols border points here. Some members come from Tucson, others farther away. The private group was founded in 2011 by Tim Foley, 64, a former 82nd Airborne paratrooper and recovering addict whose endless gulping of cans of Red Bull and chain-smoking of American Spirit cigarettes put a modern twist on Spartan habits. I live almost solely on caffeine, nicotine and an occasional Pop-Tart, he said. Foley knows cartel members control the Mexican land he watches because in January 2022, he says, they contacted him, via a phone call from a federale, a Mexican state police officer. The caller initially offered to furnish AZBR with any gear or weapons, gifts," which would mean you wouldnt be our enemy then. Foley declined and two weeks later the man called again, this time offering $15,000 a month if AZBR would cease operating. Again, Foley said, he declined, at which point the federale sighed and told him that, in that case, the cartel was going to raise the price on his head from $100,000 to $250,000, a rich bounty that luckily no one has collected. Baby's Head Gap, so named for an impaled Mexican doll's head, evidently a warning of cartel control of the area. The ex-82nd Airborne founder of Arizona Border Recon says he spurned the cartel's bribes, and it raised the price on his head. On a recent AZBR patrol in mid-May, menacing silhouettes appeared on the southern skyline. These cartel members are soldiers of a sort themselves infantry in the drug trade that has seen the Southwest borderland become the main conduit for deadly fentanyl, according to federal prosecutors and law enforcement officials with whom Foley is in regular contact. While much of the border attention has fallen on Texas, authorities in Arizona seized at least six tons of fentanyl at the entry point of Nogales in just four months between October and January. Two March busts there found more than 560,000 fentanyl pills, according to federal officials. The March seizures involved vehicle and tire smuggling operations, which the cartels use to move the largest stashes of fentanyl, but individual carriers are also involved. Suspected drug mules in Arizona. For a decade now, Foley has had numerous encounters with migrants, and with cartel members sometimes armed. While AZBR has a mailing list of 50, his intelligence-gathering missions involve no more than a dozen vetted volunteers, about the size of a Marine Corp infantry squad. Some of them, like Foley, are ex-military, including a former Green Beret. They camp and run trail cameras in high-traffic areas where migrants and smugglers regularly traverse the treacherous desert seeking a new life, or a drop-off point for the contraband they have carried into the U.S. The beginning was hard, as I had to learn the terrain and the tactics of what was going on down here, Foley said. I started out with five others, but they faded away in about six months. Around a year later, AZBR was officially started. The AZBR team members take time off work, and away from their families, to come out to the border and obtain intelligence to share with the U.S. Border Patrol. Some come from nearby Tucson, others farther away. With the use of volunteers on the ground, cameras on the trail and drones in the sky, they regularly observe the movement of the cartel and their mules on the south side and north side of the U.S. border. Foley notifies his network of federal and local law enforcement contacts before AZBR teams head out, indicating where they will be operating. Some members speak Spanish, including Foleys number two, Enzo, the better to communicate during encounters with strangers in the baked wasteland. Sex Work Looms for Indebted Young Women A visual warning of just one of the perils of the Arizona borderland. Over the years, AZBR patrols have seen countless drug mules, human smugglers, migrants and even dead bodies some victims of the cartel, others victims of mother nature. Last November, an AZBR team encountered two young women who startled the team by saying they had paid no one to cross an unheard-of arrangement in a world where the cartel routinely charges between $3,000 and $5,000 for the crossing. The women said they were simply told to meet up with a man in Tucson, leading AZBR to speculate the women and their unrealized debt could lead to sex trafficking. In that case and others, AZBR will notify Border Patrol officials, who come and take the crossers into custody. Foley is explicit in saying he does not want "cowboys" on his operations AZBR is not looking for confrontations or shootouts and does not view itself as a law enforcement group. Anger over border crime is one motivating factor for some AZBR members, who prefer to remain anonymous. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Border Patrol did not respond to a request for comment about the groups activities. Still, the members know how they are sometimes perceived. In articles about them published by Soldier of Fortune magazine and then posted on social media, some commenters deride AZBR members as wannabes or LARPs" live-action role players. They shrug at the labels, all of which they reject. Weve been called everything in the book militia, vigilantes, domestic extremists, and the list goes on, Foley has said. We are an NGO; we have no ranking structure and my official title is field operations director. The only rank in the organization is my dog, Sgt. Rocko, and thats just because it sounds cool. What weve never been called is neighborhood watch, but this is my neighborhood and Im watching it. Some migrants who have entered the U.S. illegally have mistaken AZBR volunteers for government officials and tried to surrender to them. More often, they are led a few hundred meters into the U.S. and then abandoned by the cartel coyotes who promised to get them to Tucson, about 70 miles away. With no help, they will die of exposure quickly, but AZBR provides food and water while waiting for the Border Patrol to pick them up. In terms of drugs, AZBR has found several kilos of dope in stashes near Arivaca, Ariz., and on cartel mules in the U.S. The patrollers' practice is to immediately notify Border Patrol and turn over the contraband. With Mexico in the background, an expression of wishful thinking perhaps. While two square miles is but a postage stamp on the Southwest border, it is an immense area for small teams to patrol and Foley is under no illusions about what is happening there or AZBRs ability to make a major dent in the traffic. I have no regrets, only frustrations, he said. Open borders opponents are also frustrated with the way President Biden began lifting immigration restrictions the moment he took office in January 2021. Arizona sued Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, who has supervised the Biden administration policies of paroling hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers, to keep in effect Title 42, a COVID-related border restriction launched by the Trump administration. On May 18, however, Arizonas case was rejected by the Supreme Court, with Justice Neil Gorsuch ruling the government cannot apply an emergency decree for one crisis, COVID, to another, illegal immigration. Gorsuch also used his rejection to write a ringing rebuke of the way government trampled on civil liberties during the epidemic, strictly enforcing ruinous economic shutdowns and made-up steps like social distancing that have since proven ineffective in fighting the virus. Another court case filed by Florida, however, has been more successful in trying to curb the Biden administrations efforts to relax border controls and facilitate the passage of more immigrants. While the figures for May when Title 42 ended have not been compiled, monthly records for illegal crossings have been set and shattered repeatedly under Biden. In April, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol had 211,401 encounters at the Southwest border, up 10% from March and 20% more than they encountered in April 2022. The Southwest border accounts for more than 85% of port-of-entry encounters, which can include recrossing illegal immigrants but does not account for gotaways, those that Border Patrol agents do not see. More than 5 million people are estimated to have now entered the U.S. across the Southwest border during the last 2 years. Numbers like that and the skyrocketing fentanyl overdoses in the U.S. can make the work of AZBR volunteers seem inconsequential. But this does not dissuade them from what they see as their duty to protect the small sliver of the U.S. border that they consider their backyard. The hope is that the U.S. government will deploy more federal agents to the border to quell the surge, but it may take the efforts of citizens working alongside federal authorities to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs and migrants into the United States. Foley, for one, has developed a fatalistic outlook from whats happening. Pennsylvanias primary reinforced recent trends, but it also showcased two very different faces of the Democratic Party courtesy of the mayors race in Philadelphia and the county executive and district attorneys race in Allegheny County. Openly progressive candidates won both races in Allegheny County as has been the case in contested Democratic primaries in recent years in races for legislative and congressional seats. Yet, in Philadelphia, Cherelle Parker, an African-American candidate who pledged to fight crime and reinstate stop and frisk, won a multi-candidate primary by a margin of more than 10 points over her openly progressive opponent. Allegheny County results include both Pittsburgh and the suburbs. Suburban Democrats here are overwhelmingly progressive; they are true believers. This is especially the case with newer residents who are replacing old-school, blue-collar Democrats. In Pittsburgh, the energy and activism are based in the progressive movement. Over the years the old-guard (predominantly white) has not built true alliances with black communities. As a result, a weakened old guard candidate fighting against better-funded, more energetic progressives leads to progressive victories. Add in the progressive suburbs, and its no wonder that almost all of the recently nominated Democrats in the county sound more like U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez and U.S. Sen. John Fetterman than old school stalwarts like the Zappala and Costa political families. Yet, in Philadelphia, it was a different story. A small part of Parkers win powered by support from the black community and the building trades can be traced back to the mayoral election of 1987. Incumbent Wilson Goode (African-American and Democrat) was challenged by Frank Rizzo (former mayor and a white Republican). Then party Democratic Party chairman (and future congressman) Bob Brady, who is white, spent countless hours visiting bars and union halls in white Democratic strongholds in South Philly, Grays Ferry, and the river wards, making the case for Goode, trying to move the needle a few points. Goode won by 2.8 points. Bradys work helped hold together the Democratic Party and laid the groundwork for the Parker coalition a generation later. Progressives in Philadelphia are true believers, too. Many arent interested in building coalitions with old school Democrats, and many of their goals clash with those of workers in the building trades. And, most notably, they have not built alliances with the black community. A progressive candidate even challenged old school, African American leader state Sen. Tony Williams for his seat in Southwest and West Philly. Williams won, in part because his family has served that community since the 1970s his father having been a state senator and former mayoral candidate. That was a bad strategic decision by the progressives. So, progressives have grabbed hold of the Democratic Party in Allegheny County, but have not fully grabbed power in Philadelphia even though many progressives hold seats in Phillys city council, and District Attorney Larry Krasner is nationally known as the prosecutor criminals love. 2023 saw a pushback in the City of Brotherly Love, led by a blue-collar and black alliance. The long-term questions are: Will Philadelphias Democratic Party unify progressives, blue-collar workers, and African Americans? Or will the Brady/Parker blue-collar and black coalition stay together while splitting from the progressives? Will progressives continue to go it alone, or will they try coalition-building instead of ideological purity? In Allegheny County, will progressives continue to win multi-candidate primaries, or are there enough African-American and blue-collar Democratic voters to unite together and push back against the progressives? Alternatively, if the progressives do continue winning primaries, can Republicans forge alliances with disaffected Democratic voters? The answers to these questions merit our attention in the near future, especially this November in Allegheny County. The progressive, Soros-backed candidate for District Attorney, Matt Dugan, defeated the incumbent traditional, crime fighting DA, Stephen Zappala. Yet, Zappala secured the Republican nomination. So, its a do-over but with Republicans and Independents voting. The first test of coalition-building will play-out before our eyes. Harry Potter and The Crown actress Helena Bonham Carter is narrating History's Secret Heroes, a podcast about World War II for BBC Radio 4. ADVERTISEMENT "In each episode of History's Secret Heroes, Helena shines a light on ordinary people with extraordinary stories," the British broadcaster said in a press release on Wednesday. "Listeners will hear tales of people like Major Charity Adams, the first African American woman to be an officer in the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, and Bela Hazan, a young Jewish woman who went undercover at the Gestapo headquarters to fight against the Nazis. Other episodes include Virginia Hall, an American woman who helped organize the French resistance, and masterminded one of the war's most successful prison breaks." Bonham Carter has described both sets of her grandparents as "unconventional war heroes" and explored their contributions in the documentary, My Grandparents' War. "So I was thrilled to be involved with this fascinating new series and help tell these lesser known, but extraordinary, stories from World War II," she said about History's Secret Heroes. "The risks these people took and the number of lives they saved was nothing short of heroic and it's a privilege to shine a light on their acts of courage." Premiering Wednesday, the radio program will also recount the story of Star Trek legend George Takei, who was removed from his family home at the age of five in the aftermath of the Pearl Harbor attack when 120,000 Japanese Americans were interred. Diyar Al Muharraq, a leading real estate development company in Bahrain, has announced that the final preparations are under way for the smooth operation of the 3.5-km-long water canals within the developer's Al Naseem residential community. Giving the latest project update, Diyar Al Muharraq said the channels have been filled with water and the readiness of the boats entrance gate is being studied for the smooth operation of the water canals. The implementation of the water canals and its systems were designed and supervised by a group of leading local and international consultancy firms specialized in marine projects, which included the construction of the entrance gate and water circulation systems for the internal water canals extending over 3.5 km. With the completion of the final stage of commissioned work, the emplaced systems will operate around the clock to maintain the optimal water quality and water levels at all times, it stated. Commenting on the occasion, CEO Engineer Ahmed Ali Alammadi said: "We are pleased with the progress of Al Naseem project in accordance to the set schedule. While designing the project, we were keen to provide an integrated lifestyle with a calm and tranquil environment, all while providing the residents with stunning views and various facilities and services that satisfy different preferences." Spread over approximately 328,000 sq m area, Al Naseem consists of six types of villas available on freehold basis for all nationalities in both gated and non-gated communities. The gated community includes over 300 villas overlooking the water canal with the option of adding a private dock upon request and residential buildings holding up to 1,000 serviced apartments that are equipped with the latest amenities. The second community is an ungated neighbourhood with a 100-boat marina, and investment plots dedicated to accommodating six-storey residential buildings, in addition to a seaside shopping promenade that includes several restaurants and cafes. Diyar Al Muharraq is the largest integrated city in the kingdom, offering a variety of housing solutions and a luxurious modern lifestyle, all while persevering the traditional family values of the Bahraini community. It offers a balanced mix of residential, commercial, recreational, and healthcare facilities that encompass a smart, self-contained, futuristic model city.-TradeArabia News Service Missouri has more than 13,000 children in the foster care system, taken from volatile and abusive homes and put with strangers for their safety. The kids are put through legal channels asking them to recall and recount their suffering, make hard decisions, avoid contact with their biological families, forget their pets for a while and even uproot to new schools. Of those 13,000 Missouri children, more than 500 of them are in the 24th Judicial Circuit the legal jurisdiction made up of Washington, St. Francois, Madison and Ste. Genevieve counties on any given night. For most foster kids, the darkness of their circumstances means their daylight might as well be night. They need a constant friend they can trust who has a flashlight to ease the way. CASA of the Parkland, which started in March 2020, recently held its Light of Hope luncheon to award and recognize those who ease the way for 24th Circuit foster kids: volunteers, caseworkers, social workers, sponsors, legal representatives and those who stand for CASA court appointed special advocates for children. CASAs are trained volunteers appointed by judges to advocate for foster children, shepherding the kids through the legal system and foster-family experience as a constant friend and authority figure, even as a kids case lawyers, judges, foster families and schools might change. At the CASA of the Parkland luncheon held May 11 at Memorial United Methodist Churchs fellowship hall in Farmington, Lyn Ruess, attorney and former guardian ad litem (GAL) was given the Light of Hope Award for her services to foster children. Guests also heard moving testimony from a 14-year-old girl, Sophia, and her adoptive mother, Monica Lawrence of Franklin County CASA. JoAnna Watts, executive director of CASA of the Parkland, said Ruess was just an amazing human being, constantly advocating for the needs of foster children. An attorney who graduated from law school at Washington University in St. Louis, Ruess has served as a guardian ad litem, an attorney who represents the best interests of those who cannot represent themselves, such as foster children. Every year, CASA of the Parkland has organized Festival of Trees in which people sponsor fully-decorated Christmas trees that are later auctioned off at top dollar. Watts told the crowd at the luncheon, Ruess chooses to decorate her tree with presents. And all of those gifts are for the children that we advocate for. Lyn provides all of that, Watts said. Ruess said she always had a lot of help in shopping for and decorating the Christmas tree, so it was embarrassing and wonderful at the same time to receive the award. I couldnt do the tree without some of my best friends, she said. Watts then introduced Sophia and Monica Lawrence. Sophia, 14, talked about her experience as a foster child in the system, and Lawrence spoke of her experience as a CASA volunteer, and as an outreach coordinator for Casa in Franklin County. We hope their story is one that inspires and empowers you to see all the ways you can help kids in foster care, Watts said. Sophia, addressing the room alone on stage, told the crowd she would soon be celebrating her sixth anniversary of being adopted. She said she remembered feeling alone and scared as she went through the foster care system, and that she greatly relied on her CASA advocate, Lawrence, for normalcy, stability, and even some fun here and there as they went bowling or shopping. She was someone I could talk to without a care in the world, and she made me feel safe something I didnt always feel at the time, Sophia said, adding that her CASA was her lifeline especially in the court system. She said every kid deserved that advocacy. "I don't want people to think they have to have a PhD or a degree in psychology to be a CASA volunteer. So much of it is just being there for the entire time," Sophia said. "Things might get hard, there might be bad days, the learning curve might be steep or stressful, but there's support, there are people to help you and your foster kid get through it all. You're on a journey together, and at the end, you'll have made all the difference and it will all be worth it." Lawrence spoke next about what it was like to care for Sophia in the foster system. She and her husband had been foster parents before and had eight placements. She knew what it was like to hold a baby who had been born to someone addicted to meth, and she knew what it was like to watch a 5 year old flunk all the placement tests to get into kindergarten, leaving her to wonder, and not for the first time, "How are we going to get these kids back on track?" She said eventually, with diligence, patience and support, the kids eventually not only survived, but thrived. Lawrence said she and her husband knew, "right off the bat" Sophia's case was going to be challenging. "Both of her parents were facing some lengthy prison sentences, and weren't going to be present in her life," she said. But that's when CASA stepped in. Sophia's CASA served as an authority figure and friend, a lifeline for Sophia, advocating for her charge in a way that helped the judge, lawyers and clerks know Sophia in a more personal fashion. She would take Sophia on outings just to get to know her better, ask how Sophia was doing, to be a listening ear in case she had exciting, sad or scary news to impart. Lawrence appealed to the luncheons audience to consider volunteering or donating to CASA of the Parkland. I thought about throwing in the towel on foster care many times, she said. The system is definitely screwed up, it cant be denied. But CASA is working. Its filling the gaps. Its making an enormous difference in a way that cant be done by the current system, and these kids deserve that support, that help to get through these situations that they didnt even create. For more information or to discuss the requirements for becoming a volunteer, call 573-664-1299 or visit casaoftheparkland.org. Local radio personality Mark Toti was the master of ceremonies for the luncheon. Heather Jordan, president of the CASA Board of Directors and a former CASA volunteer, provided an earlier overview of the non-profit, its purpose and its successes. Food was provided by Memorial United, and its preparation was overseen by Mark Cook of Cook Financial LLC. Lunch was served by the Missions Team of Memorial United Methodist Church and dessert was provided by the Relief Society, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Porterville, CA (93257) Today Partly cloudy this morning, then becoming cloudy during the afternoon. High 88F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. Low 58F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph. I am confident that TCSs best years are ahead, outgoing CEO tells staff in farewell email. IMAGE: Rajesh Gopinathan. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters Rajesh Gopinathan, who steps down as CEO and MD of Indias largest IT services firm Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) on Wednesday, in an e-mail to employees dubbed the past six years, when he was at the helm, a period of tremendous growth and transformation. Welcoming his successor K Krithivasan, Gopinathan wrote: I wish Krithi the very best as he takes over the TCS baton and charts the way forward to our $50-billion aspiration. I am confident that TCSs best years are ahead He wrote at length about the achievements of the company and the structural changes in the company during his stint at TCS. This week marks the culmination of my two-decade-long journey with TCS. I will step down from my role as CEO & MD on May 31, 2023. It has been an absolute privilege to lead our company in the last six years, which have been a period of tremendous growth and transformation for all of us, he wrote in the email. Although Gopinathan steps down from his role as CEO, he will be around for a smooth transition until September 16, 2023. According to sources in the know, Gopinathan and Krithivasan have been meeting with TCSs major clients across geographies. Under Gopinathans leadership, TCS grew from a $17.5-billion revenue company in March 2017 to a $27.9-billion firm in March 2023. During this period, TCSs market capitalisation grew from $74 billion to $143 billion. He also wrote about the structural changes and branding exercises that the company undertook. Most importantly, we went through a process of self-discovery and greater awareness of the wealth of contextual knowledge we possess and the value of the work we do for our customers. Awareness, articulation and amplification of the value we deliver are going to be critical for our success in the years ahead, he said in his email. This was accompanied by a multi-year effort to create a new brand identity and statement -- Building on Belief. On restructuring the company, which many believe may have been a contentious point, he wrote: We expanded the leadership pool by introducing a three-tiered business unit structure across P&L ownership, new market expansion and new business development. This expanded the pool of named business unit owners from 25 to 150 and enabled the incubation of young leadership talent across the company. Gopinathans resignation came as a surprise to the market. TCS has seen just four CEOs since its inception in 1968. He has, so far, refrained from sharing his plans, even as media reports have hinted that he may take on a consulting role within the group. I am grateful to have had the privilege to helm TCS journey for six years, and carry on the proud legacy of Mr Kohli, Ram and Chandra. I want to especially thank Chandra, our chairman, for his mentorship over the years, he said. The Fredericktown Police Department recently introduced the community to its newest officer, "Balt" and his handler, Fredericktown native Officer Zach Boyer. Balt is an almost 2-year-old Belgian Malinois trained in narcotics detection, apprehension and tracking. Boyer's journey as a K9 handler may have just begun, but he already has seven years of law enforcement experience. Boyer attended the Mineral Area College Law Enforcement Academy, but it was not until a couple years ago, when he had the opportunity to work with a K9 handler, he realized working with dogs was such an amazing experience. It was during this time, Boyer said, he realized the incredible potential of working with police service dogs, igniting his passion for becoming a K9 handler. "I was able to see how the dogs tracked and detected for narcotics and it was very interesting to me," Boyer said. "So far, my favorite experience has been finding narcotics and taking them away from dealers and users. "It's no secret that drugs are a growing problem, and I'm proud that I can be a part of getting some of it off the streets." The need for a K9 trained in narcotics detection became more urgent with the legalization of marijuana in the state of Missouri. Other dogs within the department were solely trained to detect the now-legal substance. Fredericktown Police Chief Eric Hovis said he saw this need on the horizon and began raising money to purchase a new K9 as well as send an officer for the necessary training. The acquisition of Balt was made possible through the generous contributions of the community. The department initiated a fundraising campaign, raising $10,000. Additionally, Dave Mungenast, a supporter of law enforcement initiatives, matched the raised amount, bringing the total to $20,000. In recognition of his support, Mungenast will be honored with a plaque commending his generosity. "I would like to thank the community, especially Dave Mungenast, for the generosity and support of our K9 program," Hovis said. "We raised the money quickly and were able to fill this need. Being able to remove narcotics from our streets is a top priority of the department and Balt is going to help us accomplish that." Boyer said Balt has had an easy time adjusting to his new home, both on the department and as part of the Boyer family. The dog is described as outgoing, excited around a lot of people, and overall a very happy boy. Though he has had limited interaction with Officer Boyer's family, Boyer said, the bond among them has already formed. "My family and I have already decided that we love him," Boyer said. Currently, Balt is the sole K9 in the department, but plans are underway to introduce another dog once another officer completes K9 training. Officer Boyer acknowledges the vital role that K9s play in law enforcement. He said police service dogs possess unique abilities that officers alone do not, including their heightened sense of smell, ability to detect the odor of narcotics and locate items or individuals through tracking human scent. "K9s in our community are important because there are so many instances they can be used," Boyer said. "I've personally had several instances myself where I thought having a K9 would have helped out, from finding a runaway or lost people to locating narcotics." Since joining the force, Balt has been involved in several successful drug apprehensions. The K9's ability to find narcotics has aided officers in their fight against drugs. During their first shift together and first traffic stop, Balt and Boyer were able to locate approximately 20.3 grams of methamphetamine resulting in a felony arrest for possession of a controlled substance. "I do think that Balt will make a difference and believe he already is," Boyer said. "Any amount of narcotics we can get off the streets is a win." Tesla's CEO Elon Musk arrived in Beijing on Tuesday, his first trip to China in over three years. He is also expected to visit Tesla's manufacturing unit in Shanghai. Musk met China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang within hours of arriving in Beijing. On Wednesday, Musk met China's Industry Minister Jin Zhuanglong and discussed the development of electric vehicles. He also met Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao. China accounts for 50% of Tesla's vehicle sales and 20% of its production capacity. IMAGE: Elon Musk, Tesla Senior Vice President Tom Zhu and Vice President Grace Tao leave a restaurant in Beijing, May 31, 2023. All Photographs: Tingshu Wang/Reuters IMAGE: Musk with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao at the Chinese commerce ministry. IMAGE: Musk reaches out for a handshake before leaving the Chinese commerce ministry. IMAGE: Musk leaves his hotel in Beijing for his appointments with Chinese leaders. IMAGE: Musk gets into -- what else -- a Tesla car as he leaves his hotel in Beijing. Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com Apple is hoping to assemble in India 25 per cent of all iPhones produced globally to reduce its heavy dependence on China. IMAGE: People take pictures outside the Apple store in New Delhi. Photograph: Anushree Fadnavis/Reuters Can Apple Inc become for India what Samsung is to Vietnam in the mobile devices export sweepstakes? For Samsung it has been a long haul -- starting from 2009 when the Korean major decided to slowly shift manufacturing operations from China till it moved out completely in 2019. That strategic decision transformed Vietnam into Samsung's mobile device assembly hub, investing $18 billion in factories, supply chains and R&D. Vietnam, which also liberalised a range of policies to accommodate foreign direct investment, catapulted itself to become the world's largest exporter of mobile phones after China. Apple Inc has regularly been hitting the headlines as it expands its operations in India, but the question is whether the tech giant can replicate what Samsung has done in Vietnam. The conglomerate is hoping to assemble in India 25 per cent of all iPhones produced globally to reduce its heavy dependence on China. Consider the reality. In 2022 Samsung's exports from Vietnam were $65 billion, of which mobiles and parts accounted for the bulk. This has helped Vietnam push its total electronics exports to $115 billion (of which mobiles accounted for $59 billion), implying that Samsung accounted for more than half the Indo-Chinese nation's overseas sales in this category. Direct comparisons with India are difficult because New Delhi started its exports push later, principally under the government's signature production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for mobiles, which began in FY21. Apple's three vendors -- Taiwan-based Pegatron, Wistron and Foxconn -- are an integral part of the PLI scheme. In other words, Samsung has a 15-year head start in Vietnam. That is why India's exports of mobile phones in FY23, though impressive, pale in comparison. The figure is just one-fifth of Vietnam, and Apple's value of exports is not even a tenth of Samsung's overseas sales from that country. The contrast in the depth of association between each global mobile device giant and the respective country of investment is even more palpable. Vietnam accounts for half of Samsung's global mobile phone production. India accounts for 7 per cent of Apple's global production. The Korean company has already invested $18 billion; Apple's three vendors have put in over Rs 3,000 crore (Rs 30 billion) as stipulated under the PLI scheme, though new investments have been announced like $300 million in Karnataka. In terms of localisation of supply chain, Samsung is far ahead in Vietnam and built up its domestic networks bit by bit. Over a decade, the Seoul-headquartered chaebol created a domestic supply chain that includes 50 home-grown tier I suppliers (in 2014, Samsung had just four and that too only in paper packaging). So far, Apple has only developed the Tata group as its first domestic supplier. That slow pace is partly because Apple takes three to five years to develop a local supplier and does not prefer shortcuts in the development process. According to a spokesperson of the Indian Cellular and Electronics Association, the policy focus in India should now be on narrowing this gap over time. But can the gap between Apple in India and Samsung in Vietnam be bridged more quickly and comprehensively? One test case is clearly FY26, the last year of the PLI scheme for mobiles. The government's ambition is that by this financial year India would have a vibrant electronics production of $300 billion, of which mobile devices would be 40 per cent (or $120 billion). Exports of mobile phones alone are expected to hit $50 billion by then. Clearly Cupertino, California-headquartered Apple and its vendors will have to play a big role in reaching this target. It is expected to export 70-80 per cent of the $20 billion-$25 billion worth of phones made in India. But the government export target of $50 billion in FY26 has been surpassed by Vietnam in 2022. And even if Apple achieves its target, it will still be less than half of what Samsung already exported in 2022. Also, the exports in FY26 look difficult to reach because both home-grown players and the Chinese brands have failed to deliver on their export targets. Many analysts say the eventual test for Apple would be whether it pushes the pedal even further, especially after FY26 by shifting iPhone capacity more quickly to India. But it is also building Vietnam as an alternative assembly destination with iPad, wearables and also MacBook production. How fast it moves in India will depend on how the government negotiates certain issues, tariffs being a key one. Vietnam has one of the lowest tariffs for inputs plus the certainty that the ruling Communist government won't change its mind frequently. A study of 120 tariff lines showed Vietnam's average tariff was at 5.7 per cent compared to India at 9.9 per cent, putting the country at a disadvantage. Indian labour laws, in terms of hiring and firing, flexibility in shift schedules and permissions for women to work night shifts, also militate against greater productivity that multinationals need to service global supply chains. For instance, an amendment to the Factories Act by the government of Tamil Nadu, which houses several Apple vendors, to offer factories the option to restructure working hours was hastily withdrawn following protests from trade unions. In contrast, Vietnam changed labour rules to extend work hours. How efficiently the Centre and state governments can lower these hurdles will determine whether Apple in India will do a Samsung in Vietnam. Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com '...through the will of the people and commitment of leaders.' 'It may not happen today or tomorrow, but it will happen.' IMAGE: Union Home Minister Amit A Shah meets with a Kuki delegation in Moreh, Manipur, May 31, 2023. Photograph: @PIBHomeAffairs/Twitter The border state of Manipur has been engulfed in violent clashes between the Meitei and Kuki groups that has claimed 80 lives in 27 days. Over 30,000 people have been displaced as villages have been attacked and houses burnt. The state is home to 35 ethnic groups and hasn't seen such violence between ethnic communities in the past. Over 10,000 personnel from the Indian Army and the Assam Rifles have been deployed along with central armed police forces and the Manipur police. "There is a lot of rumour mongering and people should not fall prey. The conflict is not between Christians versus Hindus, tribals versus non-tribals or majority versus minority, it is between two communities. People should not fall prey to rumours," says retired Lieutenant General Konsam Himalay Singh, the first officer from the North East to be appointed a three star general in the Indian Army. The general is a member of the Manipur government's consultative committee on Naga Peace Talks. The officer retired after 40 years of distinguished service in the Indian Army during which he led an infantry battalion during the Kargil War and commanded a battalion in the highest battlefield of the world, the Siachen Glacier. The general later commanded an infantry division and a corps at the Line of Control facing Pakistan and also oversaw counter-terrorist operations in Jammu and Kashmir. "India has a 1,760 km open border with Myanmar which has been in the throes of political instability... Common ethnic groups live on either side of the border. Some insurgent groups operating in India have direct linkages across the border and are trained and supported by China in the past," General Himalay Singh tells Rediff.com's Archana Masih in a phone interview from Imphal. In your understanding, was the Manipur high court decision to examine the possibility if the Meiteis could be considered a Scheduled Tribe what triggered the violence? Or were there other reasons for the conflagration? The high court verdict may have been one of the the triggers, but the pressure had been building up for a long time. There were several other actions taken up by the state government like the war on drugs, clearing encroachments in the reserve forest, illegal migration and longstanding historical issues that raised the tension between the groups. I am not going into the merits or demerits of these actions taken by the state government, but the high court judgment may have been one of the triggers that has led to the conflagration and violence. Why has the military and the Assam Rifles been unable to bring the violence under control? That the army chief had to visit Manipur was a grim reminder of how serious the situation is. The army and Assam Rifles rescued over 30,000 people who fled their homes in various districts and provided them food and shelter for weeks. They are doing their best in the prevailing circumstances. The situation in the state would have deteriorated without the army and Assam Rifles. The impression is, however, in the minds of certain sections of the population. The forces are faced with a dilemma when dealing with heavy violence and mob-like situations when hundreds and thousands of people come out on the streets, in the hills or the fields. Security forces have to be extremely careful about the use of force while dealing with civilian unrest because it could harm innocent lives. Manipur does not have a large army deployment. The law and order falls in the purview of the Manipur police which is a huge force, but unfortunately its efficacy was reduced because of the ethnic divide. Many companies of the CRPF, RPF, GRP were flown into the state. Paramilitary forces were in the process of orienting themselves to the existing security situation. There is an impression amongst the people here that the main force that should have stopped the perpetrators of violence could have done better. There is also rumour mongering that the police and paramilitary are siding with one side. Actions to allay such fears must be taken early. IMAGE: Union Home Minister Amit A Shah with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh during a meeting with delegations of different civil society organisations in Imphal, May 30, 2023. Photograph: PTI Photo Armouries looted and the chief minister referring to the 40 Manipuris who were killed as 'terrorists', something we don't think we have heard a chief minister of an Indian state apart from Kashmir say. Kuki MLAs from the BJP have alleged that radical Meitei organisations are indulging in ethnic cleansing. If this is true, isn't it a dangerous portent for Manipur as well as the integrity of the nation? The unfolding events indicate a dangerous internal security situation in Manipur and the region. It can have external ramifications also. I do not agree with general allegations of ethnic cleansing by any group because most of the people were operating from a state of fear to protect themselves from violent mobs. In a conflict of such magnitude, there is all round fear. One needs to look at a holistic assessment of people killed, look at the number of villages burnt, houses burnt and people displaced to arrive at such allegations. In any case, a judicial inquiry should bring all this out early. IMAGE: Paramilitary troopers take positions to fire at rioters in Imphal. Photograph: ANI Photo What danger does this conflict pose to the country's external security? India has a 1,760 km open border with Myanmar which has been in the throes of political instability. The India-Myanmar border has a Free Movement Regime wherein people from tribes living along the border can travel to the either side up to 16 kilometres without a passport or visa. Common ethnic groups live on either side of the border. Some insurgent groups operating in India have direct linkages across the border and are trained and supported by China in the past. A prolonged ethnic conflict in Manipur can lead to a dangerous situation because anti-national elements will exploit the clash within our borders. IMAGE: Security personnel stand guard after the recent clashes, May 29, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo Can the Meiteis and Kukis overcome the mistrust caused by this month's violence and live together? Or is that unlikely in the short term and maybe even in the long term? All the 36 communities in Manipur have lived together for hundreds of years. The kingdom of Manipur extended for nearly 2,000 years old and all these ethnic groups have contributed in the making of the kingdom. Our economy, geography and history suggests that we cannot live without each other. We are destined to live together. Peace can return to Manipur through the will of the people and commitment of leaders. It may not happen today or tomorrow, but it will happen. IMAGE: Manipuri women from the Kuki community stage a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, May 29, 2023, demanding a ban on radical Meitei groups in Manipur. Photograph: Sanjay Sharma/ANI Photo What will it take to restore normalcy in Manipur? 1. The state has to end violence by employing effective use of force. It is already 26 days of violence and innocents are suffering, therefore violence has to be controlled immediately. 2. Confidence building measures have to be undertaken by politicians, civil society members through negotiations and peace initiatives. 3. The 30,000 displaced people have to return to their homes because it is a very emotive issue. 4. Armed groups have to be taken care of sooner than later. 5. Long term measures have to be formulated to ensure that all groups meet their legitimate demands and to protect the interests of the country and the state. Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com A Delhi court has taken a serious view of the practice of service of summons on witnesses through WhatsApp by police personnel and said the officials do not seem to have respect for superior orders. IMAGE: Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: Dado Ruvic/Illustration/Reuters The court also took note of the fact that while there was no circular from the Delhi police to serve summons on the witnesses via WhatsApp, police officials were nevertheless adopting this practice. Additional sessions judge (ASJ) Hemraj of Tis Hazari court said, "It seems that despite the directions from the DCP in the form of circulars and the standing order, the in-charge of the police stations and the inspector of investigation, as well as SHOs, are not taking care to follow the same meticulously." "They do not seem to have any respect whatsoever for the orders passed by their superior authorities," the judge remarked. This matter pertains to a murder case registered at the Punjabi Bagh police station. The family member of a prosecution witness was contacted on the telephone by the police official. He then served the summons on WhatsApp; however, the prosecution witness did not turn up and did not respond to repeated calls. Advocate Rishabh Jain, counsel for the accused, drew the attention of the court to the order dated February 11, 2019, whereby the court, at the request of the accused, granted the opportunity to cross-examine prosecution witness (PW) Ashween Singh and PW Tajinder Singh on the same day. The court noted that witness Tajinder Singh was not present that day. The summons to him was received back with the report that one lady, namely, Meera Vanshal, was contacted by the head constable Pradeep on the telephone. She informed him that she was the sister-in-law of the witness Tajinder Singh and at her request, the summons was sent by HC Pradeep on WhatsApp, as she assured hi that she would inform Tajinder Singh about the date of hearing. The court referred to a standing order passed by the commissioner of police (Delhi) on February 18, 2022, regarding the issue of summons upon the witnesses. "Earlier also, this court has noted in several cases that the witnesses are being served by police officials on WhatsApp. The matter was brought to the notice of respective DCPs and they were directed to issue circulars to all the SHOs," the judge said. The court said that in pursuance to the directions, circulars were issued to all the SHOs to meticulously comply with the aforesaid standing order. "However, police officials are still adopting the practice of service upon public witnesses only on WhatsApp," the judge noted. The judge expressed his displeasure at this and said, "They are not taking pains to visit the house of the witnesses, which they are supposed to. The police officials cannot make just a single attempt to visit the house of the witness, and rather they are supposed to make at least three visits." "In this case, no efforts were made by the HC Pradeep. The report was forwarded by inspector of investigation, PS Punjabi Bagh, which shows the lackadaisical application of his mind," the judge pointed out. The court also noted that vide copy of the letter dated February 15, 2023, in another case of PS Mundka, the worthy DCP (West) reported that there was no circular from Delhi police to serve summons upon witnesses on WhatsApp. Similar circulars have been received by DCPs of Outer District and North District as well in different cases. "It seems that despite the directions from the DCP in the form of circulars and the standing order, the in-charge of the police stations and the inspector of investigation, as well as SHOs, are not taking care to follow the same meticulously," the judge observed. The court directed to send a copy of the order along with the letter dated February 15, 2023, in FIR No. 1081/2021 at Mundka police station, to the DCP for his perusal and appropriate action at his hand. The court has also issued notice to the inspector of investigation and head constable Pradeep to appear in person along with their explanation as to why appropriate action under section 66 of the Delhi Police Act read with Section 187 of the IPC be not taken against them. Meanwhile, the court also issued summon to PW Tajinder Singh through the SHO concerned. The Delhi police has asked three friends of the Shahbad Dairy murder victim to join the investigation, officials said on Wednesday. IMAGE: Sahil, accused in the brutal murder the Delhi teen, being taken to Maharishi Valmiki Hospital for medical examination, New Delhi, May 31, 2023. Photograph: ANI on Twitter Sixteen-year-old Sakshi was stabbed over 20 times and then bludgeoned with a cement slab, killing her on the spot. She was found to have 34 injury marks on her body and her skull was smashed in. The accused Sahil (20) was arrested from Bulandshahar in Uttar Pradesh on Monday. A senior police officer said three of Sakshi's friends -- Bhawna, Ajay alias Jhabru and Neetu -- have been asked to join the investigation and provide the required details in connection with the incident. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer North) Ravi Kumar Singh said, "We have the accused in our custody and interrogation is underway. We are looking at all aspects to connect the links. We are working to see all the individuals involved in the incident. Our team is working to recover the weapon used in it." Fresh CCTV footage has emerged in which the victim is seen walking into a street minutes before her murder. Ajay said Sakshi had complained to him about Sahil on Saturday. He told PTI Video, "On Saturday, Sakshi came and said Sahil pestered her. Me, along with Bhawna and Sakshi, went to meet Sahil and asked him not to bother her. However, on Sunday, he committed the crime." "When I heard about the incident and went to the spot, I saw her body lying there. Her skull was ruptured and her intestines were hanging. I helped the police shift the body into the ambulance," he added. Sunil Kumar, another local who reached the spot, said he saw several people gathered there and Ajay was helping the police to carry the body. The police are yet to recover the weapon used to kill Sakshi. Sahil disclosed that he threw the knife near the metro station at Rithala after the murder. Sahil had planned the murder two days before he killed Sakshi, who had rebuffed him in front of her friends and refused to mend their relationship. Asserting that his government will implement the five poll 'guarantees' promised ahead of the assembly polls, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday said officials have shared their inputs on financial implications, and the cabinet will meet on June 2 to decide on the implementation. IMAGE: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah holds a pre-cabinet meeting, at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Wednesday. Photograph: ANI Photo The cabinet meeting was earlier scheduled for June 1. In view of the implementation of guarantees, the chief minister on Wednesday held a meeting with all the ministers and senior officials of the concerned departments at Vidhana Soudha, the seat of state secretariat and legislature, in Bengaluru. "We had given five guarantees to the people, regarding these five guarantees concerned officials and finance department officials have made a presentation together. All the Ministers have seen the presentation, it has all the details -- proposals and financial implications of the implementation," Siddaramaiah said. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru after the meeting, the CM said, "We have not discussed in today's meeting, discussion and decision will be on the day after. On Friday at 11 am, I have convened the cabinet meeting, where we will discuss, and after that our decision will be made known to you." "But, the government has taken a call to implement all the five guarantees. It is a guarantee that we will implement the guarantees," he added. The Congress had promised to implement the guarantees' - 200 units of free power to all households (Gruha Jyoti), Rs 2,000 monthly assistance to the woman head of every family (Gruha Lakshmi), 10 kg of rice free to every member of a BPL household (Anna Bhagya), Rs 3,000 every month for unemployed graduate youth and Rs 1,500 for unemployed diploma holders (both in the age group of 18-25) (YuvaNidhi), and free travel for women in public transport buses (Shakti), on the very first day of assuming power in the state. There is mounting pressure on the new government from opposition parties and various sections of people from across the state, to fulfill its five guarantees as promised ahead of polls. Asked whether the five guarantees will be implemented at once or one after the other, the CM said, "All those things have not been decided yet, it will be discussed and decided in the cabinet." To a query about Bharatiya Janata Party's criticism, he said, "Let BJP (central govt) fulfill whatever they had promised, before questioning us. We will implement what we had promised, we had implemented earlier too, we will do it even now." Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar told media that officials shared inputs in today's meeting and also gave four to five options regarding the implementation of the guarantees, and what would be the financial impact. "We are committed to implementing the guarantees, no doubts on that. Following officials sharing their opinion and inputs, some of us (Ministers) have also shared our view, and we have asked officials to rework and present it before the cabinet. As they sought time, there is no cabinet tomorrow, it has been postponed by a day -- to Friday. We will discuss and let you know." Appealing to people to avoid any kind of 'gossip' on this matter, Shivakumar said the state government is aware of the promises made by the Congress ahead of elections and also the financial implications. "We are discussing everything." Reiterating that the government will decide at the cabinet meeting on Friday, he said, "How to do, what to do, we are thinking about it. You (media) may be in a hurry, we are not. Our speed is towards implementing systematically, the state has to be saved and we have to keep up our promise." Asked whether there will be conditions attached to guarantees, the Deputy CM said, "Whether there are conditions or not - is not important, there should be a system for everything. Like in the case of free bus service for women -- who, where, within Karnataka or outside, there should be some calculations." Earlier in the day, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge said criteria and frameworks are being decided for implementation of guarantees. He said the criterion has to be fixed to implement the guarantees, as tax-payers money is involved. Opposition BJP and Janata Dal-Secular have accused the Congress of trying to 'cheat' voters after coming to power by trying to attach conditions or criterion to the guarantees for their implementation, which were not mentioned ahead of polls. There are also some reports about incidents of people not willing to pay electricity bills and women not wanting to pay bus charges. There are also discussions over whether mother-in-law or daughter-in-law should get financial assistance under the 'Gruha Lakshmi' scheme. After having accorded in-principal approval for the guarantees in the first cabinet meeting on May 20, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had said they would 'most likely' be implemented after the next cabinet meeting. He had also said that initial estimates indicate it would cost the exchequer Rs 50,000 crore annually. On Wednesday, May 31, 2023, Imran Khan arrived at the Islamabad high court in a case related to the Al-Qadir Trust. Imran arrived at the court in a bullet-poof vehicle surrounded by a huge contingent of police and private security body guards. Imran's security personnel held up bulletproof shields to protect the former premier from a possible assassin. Imran had been whisked away from the Islamabad high court premises by the Pakistan Rangers on May 9, leading to violent protests across the country. Released later by Pakistan's supreme court, Imran has seen his political party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, implode, as senior leaders, reportedly under pressure from the Pakistan army, have quit the PTI. Imran, who remains hugely popular among Pakistan's youth, is enemy number one for the military as well as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government, who he has accused of conspiring to either assassinate him or imprison him so he can't contest the general election, scheduled for later this year. IMAGE: Private security guards escort Imran Khan as he arrives to appear at the high court in Islamabad. All Photographs: Fayaz Aziz/Reuters IMAGE: Imran arrives at the court escorted with security personnel carrying bulletproof shields. IMAGE: The vehicle carrying Imran arrives at the court. IMAGE: Private security guards escort Imran as he leaves the court. IMAGE: A police officer clears the way for Imran's vehicle as he leaves the court. Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com There are people in India who think they know more than God and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "one such specimen", Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said. IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi speaks at an event in Santa Clara, California. Photograph: @INCIndia/Twitter Reacting sharply to Gandhi's targeting of Prime Minister Modi, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi on Wednesday described the former Congress president as a "fake Gandhi" and as a person "who knows nothing" but has become an expert on everything. Speaking at the 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' event organised by Indian Overseas Congress USA in Santa Clara in the US state of California on Tuesday, Gandhi said these people are "absolutely convinced" that they know everything and can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army. "The world is too big and complicated for any person to know everything. That is the diseaseThere is a group of people in India who are absolutely convinced they know everything. They think they know even more than God. "They can sit with God and explain to him what's going on. And of course, our prime minister is one such specimen. If you sat Modiji with God, he will explain to God how the universe works and God will get confused about what have I created, he said, evoking peals of laughter from hundreds of his Indian American supporters. "They think they can explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army. But at the core of it is mediocrity. They're not ready to listen!" he said. Responding to Gandhi's speech, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Joshi claimed that the Congress leader's knowledge of history did not go beyond his family. "It is funny how someone who knows nothing is suddenly an expert on everything. A man whose history knowledge does not go beyond his family is talking about history," the senior BJP leader said in New Delhi. "A man who claimed to produce gold out of potatoes is giving lectures about science and a man who never ventured beyond family affairs now wants to lead India's warfare," Joshi said. "No Mr. Fake Gandhi! The core of India is its culture. Unlike you, who use foreign soil to tarnish the country, Indians are very proud of their history and can very well defend their geography," the Parliamentary Affairs Minister said. Gandhi's event was attended by community members not only from Silicon Valley but also from Los Angeles and Canada, said President of Indian Overseas Congress Mohinder Singh Gilzian. Gandhi, 52, told the Indian Americans that the idea of India was under attack and is being challenged. Talking about Sengol row, Gandhi said that Modi and his government cannot address issues like unemployment, price rise, the spread of anger and hatred. "The BJP can't really discuss these issues so they have to do the sceptre thing. Lying down and doing all that," Gandhi said, referring to the Sengol that was installed in the new Parliament building by Modi on Sunday. He applauded the Indian Americans for holding up the Indian flag in America, showing the American people what it means to be an Indian by respecting their culture and learning from them while also allowing the Americans to learn from them. You make us all proud. When we think of our country, you are all our ambassadors. When America says Indian people are extremely intelligent. Indian people are masters of IT, Indian people are respectful. All these ideas that have come, they've come because of you and because of your actions and your behaviours, he said. Gandhi said the poor and people from minority communities feel helpless today in India. "Indians do not believe in hating each other. A small group of people who control the system and the media are stoking the flames of hatred," he said. "Congress' stand on the Women's Reservation Bill is clear. We're committed to getting the bill passed. We have to give women their deserved space in the political system, businesses and running the country," he said. A few Khalistani supporters tried to disrupt Gandhi's speech but were taken out by the security personnel. Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda, who accompanied Gandhi at the event, said that India needs a young mind like Gandhi to lead the country. We need someone with an open mind. We need someone who has broader exposure, and global experience. And that's the reason we are all here meeting and interacting with a large number of people, he said. I know that the road ahead is pretty complicated. It's not that simple... Our idea of India is very different, Pitroda said. Gandhi arrived here on Tuesday on a three-city US tour during which he will interact with the Indian diaspora and meet American lawmakers. Last week, Pitroda said Gandhi's visit is aimed at promoting shared values and a vision of real democracy. "The purpose of his (Gandhi's) trip is to connect, interact and begin a new conversation with various individuals, institutions and media, including the Indian diaspora that is growing in numbers in the United States and abroad to promote the shared values and vision of the real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over, Pitroda said in a statement. Four Rafale fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force carried out a "strategic" mission over the Indian Ocean region for over six hours, in a significant demonstration of their long-range combat capabilities, people familiar with the operation said on Wednesday. IMAGE: Rafale jets of the Indian Air Force (IAF) during a long-range mission lasting over six hours delivering pinpoint precision strikes, in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Photograph: PTI Photo The jets took off from the Hasimara Air Force station in the eastern sector, carried out the mission involving various manoeuvres and simulated operations and returned to the base after meeting the desired results, they said. The Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out the mission at a time China has been ramping up its presence in the Indian Ocean region, which is largely considered as the backyard of the Indian Navy. The people cited said the mission by the four Rafale jets demonstrated their operational capabilities and readiness in dealing with various challenging situations. Without divulging the day of the operation, the people cited above said it was carried out very recently. The IAF also tweeted about the mission. "Four IAF Rafales flew a long range mission for over six hours into the IOR. The aircraft 'fought' their way through a large force engagement en route to their Weapon Release Point. Pickle on time, weapon on target-the IAF way!" it said. The IAF too did not divulge the day of the operation. The Rafale jets are India's first major acquisition of fighter planes in 23 year after the Sukhoi jets were imported from Russia. The Rafale jets are capable of carrying a range of potent weapons. India and China on Wednesday held in-person diplomatic talks in New Delhi and discussed proposals for disengagement in the remaining friction points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh in a 'frank and open manner'. Image only for representation. Photograph: ANI Photo The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said both sides agreed to hold 19th round of high-level military talks at an early date to achieve the objective of restoration of peace and tranquillity in the border areas. The meeting took place under the framework of Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC). The Indian and Chinese troops are locked in an over three-year confrontation in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh even as the two sides completed disengagement from several areas following extensive diplomatic and military talks. 'The two sides reviewed the situation along the LAC in Western Sector of India-China border areas and discussed proposals for disengagement in remaining areas in a frank and open manner,' it said. 'Restoration of peace and tranquillity will create conditions for normalising bilateral relations,' the MEA said. 'In order to achieve this objective, in accordance with existing bilateral agreements and protocols, they agreed to hold the next (19th) round of Senior Commander's meeting at an early date,' it said in a statement. The MEA said the two sides agreed to continue discussions through military and diplomatic channels. It was the 27th meeting of the WMCC. The previous WMCC meeting was held in Beijing on February 22. The Joint Secretary (East Asia) from the Ministry of External Affairs led the Indian delegation. The Chinese side was led by the Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The 18th round of high-level military talks between the two sides were held on April 23 during which they agreed to stay in close touch and work out a mutually acceptable solution to the remaining issues in eastern Ladakh at the earliest. Days later, Chinese defence minister Li Shangfu visited India to attend a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). On the sidelines of the SCO meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a nearly 45-minute bilateral meeting with Li. In the talks, Singh told his Chinese counterpart that China's violation of existing border agreements 'eroded' the entire basis of ties between the two countries and that all issues relating to the frontier must be resolved in accordance with the existing pacts. On May 4, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed to his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang the importance of resolving the eastern Ladakh border row and ensuring peace and tranquillity along the LAC for development of bilateral ties. A day after the talks Jaishankar had said at a media briefing that the situation along the border in eastern Ladakh is 'abnormal' and India-China relations cannot be normal if peace and tranquillity in border areas is disturbed. The eastern Ladakh border standoff erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area. The ties between the two countries nosedived significantly following the fierce clash in the Galwan Valley in June 2020 that marked the most serious military conflict between the two sides in decades. As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process in 2021 on the north and south banks of the Pangong lake and in the Gogra area. Twenty-five members of Farmington High Schools Chapter of Future Business Leaders were among more than 5,000 attendees at the recent Missouri FBLA State Leadership Conference held April 16-18 in Springfield, Missouri. In addition to member recognition for competitive events, Farmington FBLA was recognized for earning the Gold Level of the Chapter of the Year program and awarded the Gold Seal Chapter Award of Merit. Attending the State Leadership Conference is a high point for the Farmington FBLA membership. Several of the members commented on their experiences there. Senior Diep Phan said, Im so proud of all the work our chapter has put in this year. Weve had an incredibly memorable competition season and Im so thankful to our advisors for their patience and dedication to FBLA. Our success at SLC wouldnt be possible without them. Senior Abbie Wigger said, The 2023 FBLA State Leadership Conference was definitely one for the books. From learning valuable information in breakout sessions to cheering on our state officers and competing in competitive events, there was never a dull moment at SLC. Freshman AnneMarie Sheets said, The best part of SLC was seeing all the members up on the stage, it was amazing to see Farmingtons name on the big screen multiple times. Sophomore Brandon Arena said, "It was an amazing experience that I will think back on indefinitely." The following students placed in the Top 10 in their events and were recognized on stage: Diep Phan, 1st place in Website Design and 2nd place in Economics; Reese Beckett, 3rd place in Job Interview; Kate Northern 4th place in Business Plan; Tessa Hand, TJ Benoist, Abbie Wigger, Cadence King, and Riley Schrag 4th place in Parliamentary Procedures Team; Tessa Hand, 4th place in Whos Who in Missouri FBLA; Michael Koppeis and TJ Benoist, 5th place in Digital Video Production; Abbie Wigger, 7th place in Human Resource Management; and Cianna Clowdus, 8th place in Introduction to Business Communication. The top 4 in each competitive event qualify for the National Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, June 26-July 1. When students were not competing, they had opportunities to engage in various workshops and specialized leadership academies led by professional trainers in various topics. The Leadership Expo held more than 30 exhibitors, including universities and military partners, with whom members could connect. Leadership activities were also offered for members' engagement. Co-advisers for FBLA at Farmington High School are Carolyn Strobl and Christy Pierce. The Army on Wednesday foiled an infiltration attempt with the arrest of three terrorists along with a huge consignment of arms and narcotics along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. IMAGE: The seizure made from the arrested terrorists included an AK assault rifle, two pistols, six grenades, a 10-kg IED which was planted inside a pressure cooker and 20 packets of suspected heroin worth over Rs 100 crore. Photograph: ANI A defence spokesman said the terrorists, who were also in possession of a 10 kg powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED), were arrested after an exchange of fire near the border fence when they were attempting to sneak into this side. An Army personnel and one of the terrorists were injured in the firing. In a joint operation by Army along with police, likely three-four terrorists were intercepted on LoC in Poonch sector while attempting to cross the fence on the night of May 30 and 31, taking advantage of bad weather and heavy rains, Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand said in a statement. After tracking the movement at about 1.30 am, the spokesperson said an Army ambush, on challenging them, was fired upon and in the retaliatory firefight some terrorists have been hit. The area is cordoned and search operation is in progress. Blood trails have been found.Three terrorists with some weapons, war-like stores including one IED and narcotics have been apprehended. One Indian Army soldier was injured in the ensuing firing and has been evacuated, Lt Col Anand said. The injured terrorist has been shifted to a civil hospital under police custody. Officials said the incident took place at forward Karmara village in Gulpur sector after troops guarding the border picked up suspicious movement and challenged the persons which led to a gunfight. The officials identified the arrested accused as Mohd Farooq (26), who received a bullet injury in his leg, Mohd Riaz (23) and Mohd Zubair (22), all residents of Karmara. They are believed to have received the arms and narcotic consignment from across the border and were trying to smuggle it into this side when they were intercepted by the troops, the officials said. The seizure made from the arrested persons included an AK assault rifle, two pistols, six grenades, a 10-kg IED which was planted inside a pressure cooker and 20 packets of suspected heroin worth over Rs 100 crore. The IED was later neutralised by the experts of the bomb disposal squad, the officials said. The search operation in the area was still going on when last reports were received, the officials said. Hafiz Abdul Salam Bhuttavi, an United Nations-designated terrorist who trained the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) attackers for the 2008 Mumbai terror attack and acted as the outfit's chief on at least two occasions, died in a prison in Pakistan's Punjab province while serving a sentence for terror financing, his aide said on Wednesday. Photograph: Arko Dutta/Reuters Bhuttavi, who founded LeT headquarters in Muridke in Punjab, was deputy to the outlawed Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief and Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed. The JuD is the front organisation for the LeT. "Bhuttavi, 77, was incarcerated at District Jail Sheikhupura, some 60 km from Lahore, since October 2019 in a terror financing case. On May 29, he felt severe pain in his chest and was shifted to hospital where he was pronounced dead (due to cardiac arrest) on arrival," a JuD official told PTI. His funeral was held at the LeT/JuD headquarters in Muridke in which a large number of the supporters of the banned organisation participated amid high security. A source in the Punjab government told PTI that JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, who is lodged at the Kot Lakhpat jail since 2019 serving multiple sentences in terror financing cases, had requested the government to allow him to attend Bhuttavi's funeral but permission was not granted. An Anti-Terrorism Court in Lahore had given Bhuttavi a jail term of 16 years in a terror financing case in 2020. A close aide to Saeed, Bhuttavi faced sanctions from the US treasury department in 2011. The UN Security Council's ISIL (Daesh) and Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee added Bhuttavi to its list of designated terrorists in March 2012. Bhuttavi was designated a terrorist by the UN Security Council for 'participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing, or perpetrating of acts or activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf of, or in support of' or 'otherwise supporting acts and activities of' LeT. A summary by the UN committee described him as a founding member of LeT who served as the acting emir of the LeT and the JuD on at least two occasions when Saeed was detained. Saeed was detained days after the 2008 Mumbai attacks and held until June 2009. 'Bhuttavi handled the group's day-to-day functions during this period, and made independent decisions on behalf of the organisation,' according to the summary. Saeed was also detained in May 2002. Bhuttavi was also a scholar who issued fatwas authorising LeT/JuD operations. 'Bhuttavi helped prepare the operatives for the November 2008 terrorist assault in Mumbai, India, by delivering lectures on the merits of martyrdom operations,' the summary says. Born in August 1946 in Pattoki, Kasur district of Punjab, Bhuttavi was the head of 150 JuD seminaries in Pakistan. His native town is Dipalpur, Okara district of Punjab, from where the lone captured LeT attacker Ajmal Kasab hailed. Since 1992, he was looking after the affairs of the LeT/JuD headquarters in Muridke before the government took over its charge four years ago. The LeT was responsible for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai terror attack that killed 166 people, including six Americans. The US Department of the Treasury designated Saeed as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist, and the US, since 2012, offered a $10 million reward for information that brings Saeed to justice. He was listed under the UN Security Council Resolution 1267 in December 2008. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday appealed to people to surrender weapons looted from security forces and warned of legal action against anyone found to be in unauthorised and illegal possession of arms and ammunition. IMAGE: Union Home Minister Amit Shah chairs a meeting with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh and his council of ministers, at the CMs Secretariat, Imphal, May 29, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo In a signed statement, the chief minister also appealed to all concerned in Manipur not to block roads and hinder the free movement of security personnel and relief material. Such roadblocks were making it extremely difficult for security and police personnel to respond to attacks by armed groups on time, Singh said. "I appeal to all persons concerned to return and surrender the arms and ammunition which have been snatched from armed police battalions, police stations, etc, in valley and hill districts to the nearest police station/MR/IRB, etc at the earliest. "Legal action as per the Arms Act 1959 and Rules will be taken in case any person is found to be in unauthorised and illegal possession of arms and ammunition during combing operations by security personnel or otherwise," the chief minister said. He said people are violating curfew restrictions and blocking roads at several locations, causing obstacles to the free movement of relief material for those in relief camps and also to the movement of security personnel to curb security threats from illegal armed groups in conflict areas in the foothills and interiors of the state. "Such roadblocks are increasing the hardship of our already traumatised people in relief camps, including pregnant women and young children by halting the movement of health personnel, medicine, food, milk and water meant for them. "Such roadblocks are also making it extremely difficult for security and police personnel to respond to attacks by armed groups on time," the chief minister said. Singh said that to save lives and property of innocent civilians, and to assuage the hardship faced in relief camps, "I appeal to the people of Manipur not to cause roadblocks and hindrances on free movement of security personnel and relief material." The appeal by the Manipur chief minister came amid the ongoing visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah to the state. On his third day of the tour, Shah held a review meeting in the border town of Moreh on Wednesday to take stock of the security situation in the northeastern state which has been witnessing sporadic violence for nearly a month. The Union home minister reviewed the security situation in Manipur and met with a delegation of the Kukis and a team representing the other communities. The representatives expressed their strong support for the government's initiatives to restore normalcy in Manipur. On Tuesday, after meeting Shah in Imphal and Churachandpur, the Meitei and Kuki groups expressed their commitment to peace and assured that they would work for restoring normalcy in the trouble-torn state. Shah also held a security review meeting with senior officials of the Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and the Army in Imphal on Tuesday. He said peace and prosperity of Manipur are the government's top priority and instructed them to strictly deal with any activities that disturb tranquillity. This is the first time the Union home minister is visiting Manipur since ethnic clashes erupted in the northeastern state on May 3. The state on Sunday witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes and firing between militants and security forces, after a relative lull for over a fortnight. The death toll from clashes has gone up to 80, officials said. The ethnic violence first broke out after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts on May 3 to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The violence was preceded by tension over the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land, which had led to a series of smaller agitations. Days after the Congress leadership projected that the tussle in its Rajasthan unit was on hold, Sachin Pilot on Wednesday made it clear that he will not budge on his demands from the Ashok Gehlot government. IMAGE: Congress leader Sachin Pilot. Photograph: Naeem Ansari/ANI Photo On a visit to his Tonk assembly constituency, the dissident Congress leader indicated that it was the last day before what was being seen as an ultimatum to Gehlot ends. "So, let us see what happens tomorrow," he told reporters. The feud between the chief minister and his former deputy escalated a few weeks back with Pilot holding a daylong fast demanding action by the state government against 'corruption' during the previous Bharatiya Janata Party term in the state. And while ending a five-day foot march later, he said this and his two other demands should be met by this month-end or he will launch a state-wide agitation. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and former party president Rahul Gandhi met the two Rajasthan leaders on Monday. The party said they both had agreed to work unitedly. But in Tonk, Pilot signalled that he is sticking to his stand. "I want to say it again that the issues that I had raised, particularly the corruption issue... vast corruption and loot in the previous BJP rule... action will have to be taken on them. "As far as getting justice for the youth is concerned, I think there is no possibility of any compromise on it," Pilot said, referring to exams for government jobs being cancelled after paper leaks. "I had said on May 15 that the state government should take action on the issues of corruption by the BJP government and the youth," he said, reminding that this was the 'last day of the month'. Pilot said he is waiting for action by the Gehlot government. "Talks were held in Delhi the day before yesterday. They (the leadership) said the responsibility of taking action lies with the state government. So, let us see what happens tomorrow," he said. The Congress on Monday had sought to project that all was fine now with its Rajasthan unit, where the two leaders have tussled over leadership since the party's government came to power. There were suggestions that the party had worked out a formula for both the state leaders to work together and fight the year-end assembly elections unitedly. Pilot said the filling of vacant posts at the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) was necessary for its better functioning. He said the youths who live in rented accommodation while preparing for competitive examinations suffer when papers get leaked. So the aspirants should get financial compensation in such situations, he added. Referring to the Congress win in the Karnataka Assembly elections, he said the BJP lost as it repeatedly 'deceived' people. "They talk about double engines. But now those engines have started seizing," Pilot said. The BJP uses the double engine analogy to claim that there is development when the party is in power both in the state and at the Centre. Pilot said the BJP regime in Karnataka was corrupt and the Congress had accused it of being a '40 percent commission' government. The people agreed with this and voted for the Congress, he claimed. While ending his five-day 'Jan Sangharsh Yatra' in Jaipur, Pilot had made three demands -- reconstitution of the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC), compensation to youths affected by the leak of exam papers, and a high-level probe into allegations of corruption against the previous Vasundhara Raje government. Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Priyank Kharge will once again be in-charge of Information Technology and Biotechnology (IT & BT) department in the state, with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday affecting a minor re-allocation of portfolios to his cabinet. IMAGE: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah holds a pre-cabinet meeting, at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Wednesday. Photograph: ANI Photo Kharge will take care of IT & BT along with existing portfolio, while Large & Medium Industries Minister M B Patil has been given the additional charge of Infrastructure Development. The chief minister has divested himself of both these portfolios. According to sources, initially, Patil was given the IT & BT portfolio along with Industries. However, in a subsequent revision the department went to Kharge along with Rural Development and Panchayat Raj. With Patil keen on IT & BT, apparently opposing this move, Siddarmaiah had kept the portfolio with himself. Kharge was minister for IT & BT in the earlier Siddaramaiah-led Congress government. Siddaramaiah's anti-urban bias, which he does not bother to hide, may become the Congress government's biggest weakness unless it is corrected. IMAGE: Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar during the swearing-in ceremony of members of the Karnataka cabinet in Bengaluru, May 27, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo Judging by an analysis of the data the 2023 assembly election in Karnataka has thrown up, Siddaramaiah is the Congress most appropriate -- and indeed, logical -- choice for chief minister. The data reveals two (among many other) sit-up conclusions. One, as Nilanjan Sircar of the Centre for Policy Research notes, is that the strike rate (the seats contested versus those won) of the Bharatiya Janata Party in rural areas fell from 55 in 2018 to 25 in 2023. And correspondingly, support for Congress went up from 35 to 63. In other words, the BJP was almost as popular as before in Karnataka's urban areas. But in rural areas, support for it plummeted. The other conclusion relates to South Karnataka, the Vokkaliga-dominated cotton and sugarcane belt in Karnataka, where the Janata Dal-Secular used to have an unshakeable presence. This is the region that Siddaramaiah belongs to. Here, the Congress strike rate zoomed from 29 in 2018 to 62 this time. The BJP collapsed from 21 to 10. But both parties denuded the JD-S of its support in its pocket borough. The JD-S strike came down from 46 in 2018 to just 25 this time. This is not the entire story. Siddaramaiah, with his powerful oratory and blunt contempt for urban Karnataka, contributed powerfully to script the BJP's decline in rural Karnataka. This dates back to his younger days under the tutelage of strong farmer lobbies, which had leaders like M D Nanjundaswamy of the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha. The Congress might not accept this, but it is for this that he has been rewarded. However, Siddaramaiah's exaggerated anti-urban bias, which he does not bother to hide, might become the new Congress government's biggest weakness unless it is corrected. And Siddaramaiah's relationship with his former leader H D Deve Gowda and his biting criticism of the Vokkaliga community amplify and inform both the data and his politics. In his last tenure as CM (2013-2018), Siddaramaiah established a good administrative track record and showed admirable fiscal restraint. His forte was large social welfare projects; his food security, nutrition, and women-oriented schemes were big hits. But where Siddaramaiah showed little or no imagination was in creating conditions to attract more investment to Karnataka based on urban renewal. His policies were derived from his political history and beliefs. He joined the Congress only in 2005, having walked out of the JD-S. Deve Gowda was extremely fond of this maverick politician and brilliant speaker. While he made him deputy CM in the JD-S government, he held back from making him CM, not unnaturally, preferring his son H D Kumaraswamy. The decision to make Siddaramaiah CM in 2013 was also a long-drawn-out affair that involved extensive consultation. Senior Congress leader A K Antony spoke to MLAs and telephoned Ahmed Patel, seeking the Congress president's opinion. Although a majority of the MLAs said they did want Siddaramaiah, Antony conveyed to Patel that a large number of them were also apprehensive, saying that one community should not be pacified at the cost of another. Siddaramaiah is a Kuruba (shepherd). His antipathy towards the upper castes -- both Lingayats and Vokkaligas -- is hardly hidden. This is what led the pontiff of the Chunchanagiri Mutt (Vokkaliga) to declare openly that Vokkaligas would revolt if D K Shivakumar was not made CM. This fiat should be read not so much as a demand for Shivakumar's elevation as the thought that Siddaramaiah could reap the benefits of Vokkaliga support for the Congress -- the same Siddaramaiah who openly reviled and ridiculed the caste. The impression now is that with Shivakumar as his deputy, some balance will be restored both in terms of caste and rural-urban priorities. Siddaramaiah is thought to be the architect of the Ahinda (Kannada acronym for Alpasankhyataru or minorities, Hindulidavaru or backward classes, and Dalitaru or Dalits) coalition that helped bring the Congress to power. But in 2018, the Ahinda pact broke down and collapsed. This time too, it faces the same danger unless correctives are applied. Said veteran Congress leader B K Hariprasad on the 'arrangement' reached by the party in Karnataka: "No one is angry, everyone is happy." But these could be famous last words. John and Tamilarasi had their newborn stolen eight years ago, and lost all hope of ever finding him. Now they have got him back, though not fully. Not yet. A Ganesh Nadar/Rediff.com narrates their miraculous story. Aaron was the elder brother of Moses in the Old Testament. This Aaron is also an elder brother, a fact that he did not know till he was eight years old. For, Aaron was kidnapped when he was only one month old. He was reunited with his parents eight years later, affirming the belief that miracles do happen even in the 21st century. But first, the back story. John Jebbaraj, now 36, a driver in Chennai, married Tamilarasi, now 35, in 2013 at the Annai Velankanni shrine in Besant Nagar, Chennai. Aaron was born on October 28, 2014. The couple had gone to get their baby boy vaccinated, where they befriended a lady named S Devi. A couple of days later Devi visited them at their home in Thirumullaivoyal on the outskirts of Chennai. John had gone to work and Tamilarasi was at home with the new-born. Tamilarasi left the baby with Devi and went to buy tea for her guest. Devi had told her that she was looking for a home to rent. When Tamilarasi returned with the tea, she was shocked to find that her baby and Devi were both missing. Frantic, she called her husband and they searched all over for Aaron. Finally they filed a complaint at the Thirumullaivoyal police station on November, 29, 2014. A year later the police closed the case as they could not locate the baby. The couple had a second son on December 15, 2015, and a daughter on January 25, 2018. While John continues to work as a driver, Tamilarasi works as a maid to supplement their income. Now cut to the present. The years passed by, but the couple never gave up hope. One day, by sheer fortune, John spotted the kidnapper Devi in Anna Nagar, in northern Chennai. He clearly remembers the date: August 5, 2022. As he was not fully sure, he called his wife who took an auto to reach the spot. In the meanwhile, true to the latest trend, John shot Devi's picture and a video on his phone. When the kidnapper saw Tamilarasi she recognised her and fled from the spot. John called the police on 100, but the kidnapper had vanished. Devi had been inside a temple and John had also seen her eating there. When they spoke to the temple authorities, they were told that Devi was introduced to them by a tea-stall owner. The tea-stall owner revealed that Devi's father had a tea shop in the area 30 years ago, so he recommended her stay in the temple. John next complained to the Thirumullavoiyal police station and the missing child case was reopened. John also handed over Devi's photograph and video to the police. After that he petitioned the city police commissioner and also the chief minister's cell which operates out of the state secretariat. A week later, he got a call from the Thirumullaivoiyal police station saying that the CM's cell had taken an interest in his case. A week later, on February 2, 2023, Devi was arrested. Now for the twist in the tale. Devi revealed that she had the new-born with her for two years only and when she was arrested in a murder case she handed over the baby to the Villivakkam police station, in Chennai, in 2017. In 2021 Devi was acquitted in the murder case, but she never went back for the child. The Thirumullaivoyal police went to the Villivakkam police and found out that the baby boy had been placed in the Bala Mandir Kamaraj trust in T Nagar, central Chennai. They went to the trust home, where it was a eureka moment for the couple who saw their lost child after eight years. Aaron had cleared his second standard exams and was going to the third standard. The Bala Mandir trust runs its own school with education in both Tamil and English. Aaron was in the English medium school. However, locating their long-lost son was not the end of the story. The police conducted a DNA test on the boy and the parents which proved that he was indeed their son. Even then the trust could not hand over the child without a court order. John told the police that he was not rich enough to appoint an advocate. The police introduced him to M Hemavanth, and the good lawyer said John could pay him any amount and not worry about the money. "I had Rs 2,000 in my pocket and I gave it to him though he was ready to do it for free," says John. The advocate moved the Madras high court for the boy to be returned to his biological parents. Giving a very humane and sensitive judgment, the court said, 'We agree that this is your son, but will he be comfortable with you in your home when all his life he has known only his trust home? You can visit him whenever you like, you can take him home also, but you can keep him with you for a couple of days only at a time, till he gets used to the idea.' Since then the boy has been spending two days with his parents and two days at the orphanage. Cut to the present. When I met them in their humble home in Chennai, the mother, barely skin and bones, managed a big smile. And why not, all her three children were with her and they were a bundle of energy. The house was just a tiny room on the second floor terrace and the roof was hardly a protection from the blazing May Sun. A ceiling fan was rotating helplessly, and a small table fan on the floor had better results. The young daughter pulled out a bottle of cold water from the small fridge. The old-fashioned TV was on a cartoon channel which the kids were watching on mute. As I sat on the only chair in the house, the kids wanted me to shoot their video. I asked Aaron whether he liked this house or his hostel. He replied, "I like my hostel, I have lots of friends there." Here too he was playing with his siblings, but wanted to go back. John said he would take him back the next day and then bring him back after two days. "The next court date is on June 13, 2023, I don't know what the court will decide." Tamilarasi posed for a photograph with her three children: Aaron, Jebastine and Gnana Mary. In Tamil Nadu every family gets free rice on their ration card and also a few other provisions. John Jebbaraj gets none of this because he does not have a ration card. They may be poor, but hospitable they sure were. "He is a quiet boy, well behaved, he has a lots of friends here with whom he grew up. At his age you cannot expect him to start calling someone daddy suddenly," says the superintendent at the Bala Mandir trust. "It will take a while for him to accept them. Till then he is welcome to stay here as long as he likes." "Even though the DNA matched, a court order is mandatory as the child has been in the trust home for many years," says Advocate Hemavanth. "The next court date is in June and I am sure the court will ask the parents to take him home permanently." Hopefully the child will be back home, a home that is full of love and hope, soon. Readers who wish to financially help Jebbaraj's family may please call him on +919092643677 (he speaks only Tamil). Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis waves to a person who asked for his signature on their DeSantis sign following his speech May 30, 2023 at Eternity Church in Clive (Robin Opsahl/Iowa Capital Dispatch). CLIVE, Iowa Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis received an energetic welcome at his first Iowa event as a 2024 candidate Tuesday, with crowds cheering as he spoke about bringing his fight against woke ideology to the White House. More than 500 people filled the Eternity Church auditorium Tuesday, with people standing along the edges of the room after the seats filled more than an hour before the event began. Even more sat watching his speech on televisions and chairs set up in the Clive church after the room reached capacity. While DeSantis has already made several trips to the first-in-the-nation state in 2023, the visit was his first stop in Iowa since announcing his presidential candidacy. He spoke about his track record as governor, garnering applause and cheers for signing laws from a six-week abortion ban, reinstating the death penalty for sexual battery of children and banning vaccine work requirements. He received multiple standing ovations for talking about his fight to protect childrens innocence. DeSantis signed into law educational changes including banning removing adult materials and limiting discussion of LGBTQ+ issues and critical race theory. He talked about his fight against Disney in recent months over their opposition to the so-called Dont Say Gay bill. People told me If Disney weighs in, theyre the 800-pound gorilla, you better watch out, theyre going to steamroll you, DeSantis said. Well, here I stand. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds introduced DeSantis, saying that she took Iowa being called the Florida of the North as a compliment. Reynolds has signed many similar measures into law in Iowa this year that DeSantis touted in his speech, such as a law banning books with written and visual depictions of sex acts from school libraries, and a ban on gender-affirming care such as hormone replacement therapy and puberty blockers for minors. DeSantis said he disagreed with critics categorizing these laws as book bans, saying that opponents were proliferating a hoax by calling the act of taking hardcore pornography out of schools a book ban. Many of the books brought up as inappropriate by parents during the Iowa legislative session were narratives about LGBT people and people of color. A Florida principal resigned after sixth-grade students were shown a picture of Michelangelos David, after parents criticized the school for exposing their children to pornography. DeSantis said that as a father to three young children, he is concerned about how schools are using children to advance a political agenda. Ill tell you this: We stand for the protection of our children, DeSantis said. We will fight those who seek to rob them of their innocence and on that point, there will be no compromise. The church stop is the first of multiple events DeSantis will hold in Iowa this week. He is scheduled for events Wednesday in Sioux City, Council Bluffs, Pella, and Cedar Rapids. Hes also expected to attend U.S. Sen. Joni Ernsts Roast and Ride alongside several other 2024 hopefuls Saturday. His trip follows his official campaign launch Thursday in a Twitter Spaces event with Elon Musk the week prior which was complicated by technical issues. While some national media have said DeSantis campaign will be set back by its launching troubles, Iowans like Derian Baugh of Johnston said he did not believe these issues will have a bearing on how Iowans respond to DeSantis as a candidate. Baugh said he is not concerned by online criticisms calling the candidate awkward. Baugh said he is more concerned about candidates ability to accomplish a conservative, Christian agenda in office. Hes made it extremely clear where he stands on the issues, Baugh said. And hes shown that hes able to follow through, and not end up moving left to appease polls or Democrats. Former President Donald Trump and DeSantis are the current frontrunners in the growing Republican 2024 field. The former president is wishy-washy, Baugh said, pointing to Trumps changing his stance on companies like Disney that have recently drew criticism from conservatives. While he plans to support the Republican ticket in the general election regardless of candidate, Baugh said that he prefers DeSantis over Trump because he wouldnt fold to other influences. He knows what he believes and he sticks to his guns, Baugh said. Trump will also be in Iowa this week. Hes scheduled to have a radio interview in Des Moines Wednesday; Thursday, hes scheduled to speak to the Westside Conservative Club and at a Fox News town hall moderated by Sean Hannity. His last Iowa trip was canceled on May 13 because of weather. Others at the event are still considering supporting Trump in the caucuses. Jayne Hawkes, a Des Moines resident, said she loves the former president, but started looking into DeSantis because of his COVID-19 successes on issues like removing vaccine mandates and reopening schools and businesses in Florida. Hawkes said she is evaluating 2024 candidates on their plans to unify the Republican Party, and how to bring conservative values back to Washington. While shes still deciding, she said DeSantis has shown a strong moral compass in pursuing the fight against Disney and woke ideology. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US I like the stance hes taking against the woke way of the world and I want to know more, Hawkes said. I am a Christian conservative and I want to hear somebody take that stance. DeSantis did not mention Trump in his speech, but said that a Republican president must be in office for two terms to accomplish their goals. He said the America is headed in the wrong direction, and told attendees he would put the country back on a path to revival if elected president. Its time we impose our will on Washington, D.C., DeSantis said. You cant do any of this if you dont win. This story first appeared in the Iowa Capital Dispatch, a States Newsroom affiliate. In this week's Vermontitude podcast, host Peter "Fish" Case chats with Josh Davis, executive director of Groundworks, and Peter Elwell, interi Vermontitude Episode 29: Working on homes when there are none You are the owner of this article. When Irina Georgescu was a child, once a year, she would visit family in Tau, a village near Alba Iulia in Transylvania. She remembers playing outside with cousins and siblings, all of the kids swarming around her aunt's outdoor oven to get a taste of the first fresh placinte pies, a stuffed flatbread popular throughout Romania. To make them, a simple yeasted dough, often slightly sweetened, is rolled, filled and folded into a packet before it's baked on a stone or pan-fried on a skillet or griddle. "Placinte are the symbol of Romanian baking, whether filled and folded like these flatbreads or in their rectangular version, which sandwiches a filling between two layers of dough, leaving the sides open," Georgescu said, noting that each region has its own style. "Their name and style of preparation are testimony of our ancient history, influenced by Greek and Roman colonies, that left their mark on our Romanian language and cooking." The fillings can be almost anything, sweet or savory. Locally made cheeses creamy, brined or hard are a popular stuffing. In Transylvania, the pies are called pupuri and are filled with cabbage and sometimes potatoes. Sweet versions are often stuffed with magiun, a plum butter, or curd cheese, such as this variation, from Georgescu's cookbook, "Tava: Eastern European Baking and Desserts From Romania & Beyond." Sometimes the soft cheese is sweetened with sugar or honey before it's folded into the dough; sometimes the pies are drizzled with honey or sprinkled with powdered sugar after they're cooked. Historically, flatbreads were more popular in Romania than larger loaves of dense, leavened bread because they cook more quickly and "were a way to use leftover dough and make the most of the remaining heat of the oven to provide a quick lunch for the bakers," Georgescu said. Though these breads take longer to make than a sheet-pan dinner, they're easier than you might think. If you've never worked with yeasted dough before, this one couldn't be easier to mix, knead and roll. It makes a fun weekend project for a satisfying brunch, lunch or dinner. I asked Georgescu how she would turn these perfect packages into a more filling meal, and she said she likes to serve the cheese-filled breads with a creamy potato salad and simple tomato salad drizzled with fruity and nutty sunflower oil. I can also see them being great with eggs over medium, roasted mushrooms dressed in a vinaigrette, slices of ham, a rotisserie chicken or a bowl of saucy beans. Romanian Griddle Breads With Cheese and Honey Total time: 1 hour , plus 1 hour rising time 2 to 4 servings (makes 6 griddle breads) Flatbread pies come in many variations throughout Romania. These hail from Transylvania, or Ardeal, and are sometimes cooked on a baking stone. This version, from Irina Georgescu's "Tava: Eastern European Baking and desserts From Romania and Beyond" is filled with soft cheese and cooked in a skillet. served with runny honey, they make a fine brunch, snack or dessert. you could also serve them with jam, chutney, pickles or eggs. Note: If using cottage cheese, place it in a mesh strainer for 1 hour (or overnight) in the refrigerator, to drain away its excess moisture, before using. If using farmers cheese, there's no need to drain it. Storage: Refrige rate for up to 4 days. Scant 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) lukewarm water (about 100 degrees), plus more, as needed 2 1/4 teaspoons (7 grams) quick-acting or instant dry yeast 2 1/2 cups (313 grams) all-purpose flour, plus more as needed 1 pinch fine salt 6 tablespoons sunflower oil or other neutral oil, divided Scant 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) milk 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 6 ounces farmers cheese or cottage cheese (see NOTE) honey, for drizzling flaky sea salt, for sprinkling (optional) In a large bowl, stir together the water and yeast. after 10 minutes, the mixture should look foamy. (If it doesn't, the yeast is dead and you should start over with fresh yeast.) Stir in the flour, salt, 2 tablespoons of the oil, the milk and sugar and, using your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms. If the mixture seems dry, add cool water, 1 teaspoon at a time; if it seems tacky, add a little more flour. Knead the dough until soft and smooth, about 5 minutes. (you can also use a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook; knead on medium speed until a smooth dough forms.) Cover the bowl with a clean, damp cloth and let the dough rise at room temperature for 1 hour, or until almost doubled in size. (alternatively, cover and refrigerate the dough overnight.) Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Working with one piece at a time, roll the dough into a 10to 12-inch-wide circle. Crumble or spread a sixth of the cheese, about 1 ounce (28 grams), in the center, leaving a 5-inch border around the cheese. Fold the sides of the round into the center in seven to eight folds, overlapping them slightly. The dough should cover the cheese. Then press the filled circle of dough with your hands or use a rolling pin to gently press the bread closed. Repeat with the remaining dough and cheese. In a large, cast-iron skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil until it shimmers. swirl the pan so the oil coats the bottom and place one of the dough rounds in the pan. Fry until golden brown on the bottom, 2 to 4 minutes, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side, another 2 to 4 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed. Transfer to a plate and cook the remaining dough rounds, adding more oil as needed. Serve warm with honey and flaky salt, if desired. Nutrition: 327 Calories Per piece: 50g Carbohydrates, 1mg Cholesterol, 9g Fat, 1g Fiber, 11g Protein, 2g saturated Fat, 57mg sodium, 11g sugar BERLIN A 24-year-old man was struck and killed by a train on Tuesday afternoon, officials say. In a release, the Berlin Police Department said it was called about an incident on the train tracks at 5:26 p.m. It said arriving officers found that a pedestrian walking south on the train tracks had been struck by a CT Rail Train that was traveling south. Police said officers found the victim with serious life-threatening injuries and began emergency care, but shortly after the victim was pronounced dead. The victim was a 24-year-old man and identification is being withheld pending notification of the family, they said. Police said witnesses reported hearing the train sounding the horn continuously just prior to the collision. Amtrak Police responded to the scene and are conducting the investigation into the fatal collision, they said. Temperatures will climb into the 80s in parts of Connecticut on Wednesday while smoke from Canada wildfires will again cause hazy skies, the National Weather Service said. The smoke from wildfires in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia prompted air quality alerts in New Jersey. "Sensitive individuals, including those with heart or lung disease, the elderly, and the young should limit strenuous activities and the amount of time active outdoors," the bulletin said. "Levels of fine particulates will remain in the unhealthy for sensitive groups category statewide overnight into Wednesday morning due to wildfire smoke transport from eastern Canadian wildfires," the bulletin continued. As of Wednesday morning, most of the air quality monitoring locations in Connecticut reported "good" air quality around the state. Three monitoring sites in Colebrook and Litchfield reported "moderate" air quality for fine particulate. By midday Wednesday, monitoring sites in Stratford, Bridgeport and Westport were also showing "moderate" air quality issues due to particle pollution, according to the state Environmental Protection Agency. While no alerts were issued in Connecticut, the EPA noted that New England forecasters were predicting "elevated" levels of air pollution due to the fires. "Hazy skies, reduced visibility, and the odor of burning wood is very likely as the smoke plumes are transported over the region," the EPA said. The agency said people with medical conditions should remain indoors with their windows closed and use a fan or air conditioner to circulate indoor air. "Exposure to elevated fine particle pollution levels can affect both your lungs and heart, which may cause breathing problems, aggravate asthma, and other preexisting lung diseases," the EPA said. "When particulate matter levels are elevated, people should refrain from strenuous outdoor activity, especially sensitive populations such as children and adults with respiratory problems." In Canada, the wildfire damaged about 200 homes and other buildings and caused about 16,000 people to be evacuated, the Associated Press reported. As of Tuesday, firefighters had worked through the night to extinguish hotspots from the fire, and authorities banned travel and activities in wooded areas, the AP reported. Temperatures are expected to continue to rise this week, hitting the low 90s by Thursday in some inland areas of Connecticut. Friday will see highs in the low to mid 90s around Hartford and other northern parts of the state. Temperatures along the coast will be a little cooler both days. The sunny weather is forecast to stick around through Thursday. Friday will start out sunny, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon and overnight. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate TORRINGTON The city's fourth annual Juneteenth celebration will celebrate Mayor of the Day, Dr. Delois Lindsey, and provide residents with an afternoon of events at Coe Memorial Park, City Hall and Trinity Church. Effenita and Angaza Mwando, along with members of their group, Our Culture is Beautiful, and other volunteers, are leading this year's events. The Juneteenth celebration starts at 11:30 a.m. with a short walk from Coe Memorial Park to City Hall, where Lindsey will be honored. The Juneteenth flag will be raised and there are likely to be a few speeches. If it rains, the walk is canceled and the event will start at City Hall at 11:30 a.m. "We're all going to meet at the park and walk to City Hall, and once we're there, there will be a few speeches, raising Juneteenth flag, and acknowledge the Mayor of the Day," Effenita Mwando said. "After that, we'll go to Trinity Church, and there will be music, and poetry, and speaking, and African drumming," she said. "And we'll watch the John Brown film, "His Truth is Marching On." We'll also have some refreshments. "We invite everyone to come ... Families, groups, individuals, anyone who wants to celebrate this day with us," she said. "Come and celebrate with us in unity, celebrate what we have accomplished as a community, as residents of Connecticut. Come and enjoy each other and the traditions of music and storytelling. Have a joyful time." Angaza Mwando said the Juneteenth event is also a way to educate people. "If we don't, things will lie dormant," he said. "Juneteenth is still an educational thing; we need to tell people what it is, and how important it is." Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day, Freedom Day and Emancipation Day, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, according to CNN.com. A blend of the words June and nineteenth, it marks June 19, 1865: the day that Union Army Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order No. 3, proclaiming that the enslaved African Americans there were free, according to CNN. Lindsey, an educator for 34 years, said she was honored to be chosen as this year's Mayor of the Day. "I really feel honored. It's a holiday that's still in its infancy, and as the third Mayor of the Day for Juneteenth, I feel I can set the tone for this year," she said. "We can talk about what the issues are, and why our children should be part of it. I mean, how often do you get to be a party of history? So it's an honor to be selected." Lindsey, a longtime resident of Torrington, was Assistant Vice President of Student Development at the University of Hartford. She taught undergraduate courses in computer concepts and independent studies in computer science, and taught higher education leadership to doctorate students. "I prepared them to write their dissertations," she said. "My teaching was really research-oriented, teaching students to write in a scholarly format." Her work with students was challenging, she said, "but boy, was it rewarding," she said. As an avid reader and writer, Lindsey knows the importance of learning those skills early in life. "My own grandchildren have their own libraries," she said. "As soon as they hit my front door, we were in the rocking chair, with books in my lap." The Mwandos said Lindsey was chosen as Juneteenth Mayor of the Day because of her contributions to the community. "She has committed a lot to the city of Torrington, and she's also part of the Cultural Affairs Commission in Torrington," Effenita Mwando said. "She's also worked with a lot of college students at the University of Hartford," Angaza Mwando said. The Mwandos want the whole city to celebrate Juneteenth. "This represents freedom," Effenita Mwando said. " Previous Juneteenth Mayors were Shante Reynolds in 2021, and Darlene Battle in 2022. In 2021, the celebration also featured the Martin Luther King Mural Project, which was painted on the side of the WAPJ building at 42Water St., designed and created by artist Ben Keller. The mural is part of RiseUPs statewide project to install 39 murals on buildings in towns and cities around the state. "When people recognized they had freedom, they laughed and danced and ate good food, and came together with peace and talking and joy," Effenita Mwando said. "So when we do this, we want people to come together and do the same thing. Learn together, listen together, and understand the power there is in doing that." For details, visit OCIB's Facebook page, or go to Torringtonct.org. TORRINGTON Haynes and O&G were granted another two-year mining permit by the Planning & Zoning Commission, but with conditions aimed to address complaints from neighbors about noise and idling vehicles. The Haynes materials quarry, a mining operation partnership with O&G Industries, has been running for more than 20 years, with trucks and machinery running from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays. The companies use the materials mined from the property for a variety of construction projects, such as roads, buildings and foundations. Every two years, the companies apply for a renewal of their permit to continue that work. A group of residents living near the property attended an April public hearing on the permit and wanted the commission to further investigate the impact of the mining operation on the environment. They also complained about tremors from blasting at the site, as well as dust, and said trucks arriving to pick up material from the quarry were lined up outside the gate before 7 a.m., bringing noise and exhaust with them. In its permit renewal approval, the commission required the quarry owners to prohibit trucks from queuing outside the property gate before 7 a.m., and to adhere to the quarry hours that are included in the permit, on weekdays as well as Saturdays. While no blasting or transporting is done on Saturdays, materials such as gravel and stone are sold from the property. O&G representatives said they would post signs reminding truck drivers not to line up in the morning before the quarry opens. Regarding the complaints about dust and blasting, the commission and City Planner Jeremy Leifert ruled that Haynes and O&G's permits were in order for those activities, and that the companies were complying with them. According to O&G representative Richard Warren, notices of blasting times are sent to residents with a phone call, and that information is available from the quarry office. He encouraged people to contact the companies at any time with their concerns. "If we get complaints, we will investigate them," said Leifert, whose memo accompanied the commission's ruling May 24. Regarding any environmental impacts of the quarry, the commission said it was not within its purview to conduct any such studies. "No professional testimony has been heard regarding any environmental requirements, so these are not required or needed," Leifert wrote. Some residents wanted the commission to request an environmental impact study and have federal agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigate the operation to make sure it's safe. But because it is an allowed use under Torrington's zoning regulations, an environmental impact study isn't required, Leifert said. During the public hearing in May, Leifert said the commission was limited on what it could enforce. "We have a lane that we have to stay in, as a municipality, and there are certain procedures we have to follow," he said at the time. "We don't have the authority to get information on those tests, things like that; we have a set of regulations to follow on a local level, and if there's a different agency that monitors what comes out of that mine, it's not our purview, it's theirs." This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate MOSCOW (AP) A Moscow court on Wednesday set a new date for a hearing paving the way for another trial of imprisoned Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny that could keep him in prison for decades. The Moscow City Court initially scheduled for Wednesday a preliminary hearing to discuss technical issues related to the trial of the Kremlins arch foe but moved it to June 6 without giving a reason. The court rejected a request by Navalnys lawyers for more time to examine voluminous case materials. Navalny has said that the new extremism charges which he rejected as absurd could keep him in prison for another 30 years. He said an investigator told him that he would also face a separate military court trial on terrorism charges that could potentially carry a life sentence. The new charges come as Russian authorities are conducting an intensified crackdown on dissent amid the fighting in Ukraine, which Navalny has harshly criticized. Navalny, 46, who exposed official corruption and organized massive anti-Kremlin protests, was arrested in January 2021 upon returning to Moscow after recuperating in Germany from nerve-agent poisoning that he blamed on the Kremlin. He initially received a 2-year prison sentence for a parole violation. Last year, he was sentenced to a nine-year term for fraud and contempt of court. He is currently serving time at a maximum-security prison 250 kilometers (150 miles) east of Moscow. The new charges against Navalny relate to the activities of his anti-corruption foundation and statements by his top associates. His allies said the charges retroactively criminalize all the activities of Navalnys foundation since its creation in 2011. Navalnys associate, Ivan Zhdanov, has said that investigators were revising the charges to link them to a bombing that killed Russian military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky at a St. Petersburg cafe last month. The authorities described Darya Trepova, a 26-year-old St. Petersburg resident who was seen on video presenting Tatarsky with a statuette moments before the blast, as an active supporter of Navalny. They also accused Navalny's allies of making repeated calls for subversive activities in Russia. While imprisoned, Navalny has spent months in a tiny one-person cell, also called a punishment cell, for purported disciplinary violations such as an alleged failure to properly button his prison robe, properly introduce himself to a guard or to wash his face at a specified time. Navalny's associates and supporters have accused prison authorities of failing to provide him with proper medical assistance and voiced concern about his failing health. They said last month that Navalny had fallen ill with acute stomach pains and suspected that he was being slowly poisoned. Navalny's team has urged his supporters to rally in Russia and elsewhere on Sunday, his birthday. The gloves are off in the race for the House of Delegates 55th District seat. Over the Memorial Day weekend, residents of the district which includes a large swath of Albemarle as well as parts of Louisa, Nelson and Fluvanna counties found a mailer from Amy Laufers campaign in their mailbox targeting her opponent Kellen Squire. The mailers highlight comments Squire made online in 2017 calling himself unashamedly pro-life and advocating for the addition to the Democratic party platform that we eliminate abortion in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Kellen Squires own words show you cant trust him to protect reproductive rights, the campaign mailer says. Squire, an emergency room nurse who has campaigned as the progressive in the race and a champion for abortion access, has said the comments, published on the liberal-leaning Daily Kos blog and forum when he was running for the states 58th Distrct, are being taken out of context. But in what context they belong isnt particularly clear. Confronted with his past comments earlier this month, Squire told The Daily Progress they were both a failed attempt at catering to voters in a much-redder 58th District and also some form of Democratic counter operations in order to bait Republicans into attacking him. The posts, according to Squire, were both an attempt at reclaiming the term pro-life from Republicans because theres nothing pro-life about what they want to do and a bid to get conservatives to respond so he could expose them [the comments] as being made up. At the time, Squire was running against the heavily favored, and ultimately victorious, Republican Del. Rob Bell. Squire claimed he was using techniques pulled from the playbooks of former President Barack Obama and former Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. Laufers campaign isnt buying any of it. The former Charlottesville School Board member said in a Tuesday statement that while there may be some confusion over where Squire stands, she has a consistent track record as a pro-abortion Democrat. Always have been. Always will be, the statement reads. Asked what compelled the Laufer campaign to draft the mailers after what even Squire has referred to as a civil, positive race, Laufers campaign said it was simple. Voters deserve to know that Kellen claimed in his 2017 race to be unashamedly pro-life, Dawson McNamara-Bloom, the deputy campaign manager for Laufer, told The Daily Progress. Additionally, in the same posting, Kellen said that an abortion gave him nightmares. Anyone who says that is not being an ally to a womans right to choose. McNamara-Bloom said that Squires 2017 comments and his later framing of them comes across as duplicitous. He admitted to being deceptive about his views on abortion, and thats something voters need to know, McNamara-Bloom said. Reached for comment after the mailers were distributed over the holiday weekend, Squire directed The Daily Progress to his previous remarks and his public statements made online. As I was knocking doors today, I heard some lies had been circulating about our campaign, so I wanted to take a moment to address them directly, Squire tweeted on Saturday. In a statement attached to the tweet, Squires campaign highlights his career as a night-shift ER nurse who has provided life-saving abortion care. Republicans, the Squire campaign wrote, have been attacking those providers across the country for years. Its shameful to see a fellow Democratic candidate use their tactics, the statement reads. Ms. Laufer clearly feels that she must mislead voters to win this primary. The voters of the 55th District deserve better. Regarding the abortions give me nightmares reference cited by Laufers campaign, Squire said in a Monday tweet, Its a story Ive told over and over on the campaign trail. I had a young patient who almost died from a burst ectopic pregnancy because she could not access the abortion care she needed in time. I still remember creating a makeshift pressure bag with my hands, desperately squeezing, trying to replace blood faster than it was being lost, Squire tweeted. The OB later told me if shed have come in five minutes later, shed have been dead. So, yeah. Theres a way someones face turns pale as blood pools on the floor that tends to stick with you for quite awhile. The response to Squire online has been overwhelmingly positive. Ive known Kellen since 2017 when both of us were running in deep red districts, Katie Sponsler, a U.S. Air Force veteran who ran in the Democratic primary for the House of Delegates 66th District in 2021, said in a tweet. The first conversation we had was about how to run in the red on issues like abortion and guns. I know he was pro-choice then, and I know hes pro-choice now. And offline, recipients of the mailers told The Daily Progress that it is Laufer who is misleading voters. The flyer Amy Laufer put out is a deliberate distortion of what I know to be Kellens views and statements, Dr. Patrick Jackson, a doctor specializing in infectious diseases and HIV virology at the University of Virginia who received one of the mailers over the weekend and knows Squire, told The Daily Progress. Frankly, Im offended that shes trying to mislead me and other voters about an important issue instead of actually contesting real issues. The flyer is a lie and people who lie to me wont get my vote now or in the future. But Laufers campaign isnt backing down. Amy is the only candidate in the race who has always been pro-choice, said deputy campaign manager McNamara-Bloom. She was working to elect pro-choice legislators when Kellen was calling himself unashamedly pro-life, and voters should know that before they cast their vote. HARTFORD Gov. Ned Lamont announced on Wednesday that he will sign legislation establishing up to two weeks of early voting in Connecticut, fulfilling a mandate from the states voters who overwhelmingly backed the concept in a referendum last year. The Democratic governor campaigned in support of the successful amendment to change the state's constitution to allow early voting last November, when he was also re-elected to a second term. On Wednesday, the Senate gave final passage of a bill to establish the parameters for early voting beginning in 2024. "We are one of the only states in the nation that do not allow early voting, and once I sign this bill Connecticut will finally implement this long-overdue, needed reform, Lamont said in a statement. In todays economy, it is not realistic to expect every eligible citizen to travel in person to one specific location during a limited set of hours on a Tuesday to cast their ballot." In a debate that stretched into the early hours of Wednesday morning, Senate Democrats beat back a string of Republican amendments that sought to limit the scope of the early voting period and install new requirements to access the polls, such as voter ID. In the end, four Republicans crossed the aisle to support the legislation, which the Senate passed 27-7. What were doing here today is opening the door of democracy wider for more and more people in the state of Connecticut, said state Sen. Jorge Cabrera, D-Hamden. Once Lamont signs the bill Connecticut will become the 47th state to offer some form of early voting, a fact that was repeatedly alluded to by supporters of the measure. Republicans, however, charged that the legislatures Democratic majorities had used last years overwhelming vote in favor of an early voting amendment to craft a bill without GOP input, while passing much of the costs to implement early voting along to the municipalities that operate polling locations. The glaring issue is that this is not a bipartisan product, said state Sen. Rob Sampson, R-Wolcott. Thats not whats happening here. Lawmakers weighed several options for the length of early voting, ranging from 10 days to a month. Ultimately, the House settled on a 14-day window during general elections, seven days during regular primaries and four days during special elections and presidential primaries. Each municipality will operate at least one polling location throughout early voting likely town hall while larger cities can opt to open more. Voting hours will last from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except for two extended days on the Tuesday and Thursday immediately before the election, when polls would be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The legislation did not address the cost to municipalities to operate and staff early voting locations which will likely run into the millions though House Speaker Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, said Wednesday that the budget will include $1.8 million to help town's cover the cost of early voting in the first year. The Secretary of the State's office will also likely need to spend between $3.3 and $4.8 million to upgrade the state's Centralized Voter Registration System to allow for early voting. In order to allow time for that system to be updated, the first rollout of early voting will occur during next year's August primaries. Sampson, who serves as the ranking member of the Government Administration and Elections Committee, kicked off the debate around 8:30 p.m on Tuesday with an amendment to roll back the early voting window to three days, though towns would not be required to open any polling locations outside their normal business hours. The co-chair of the committee that wrote the bill, State Sen. Mae Flexer, D-Windham, noted that many smaller towns remain closed throughout the weekends and Fridays, so that the effect would be that those towns may choose not to implement early voting at all. Republicans also put forward amendments that would force the state to cover the full cost of early voting, and require cities to open up more polling centers, none of which gained Democratic support. The final vote on the bill came around 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate It's been a decade since Jamie McDonald and Cheryl Antoncic introduced the Bear's Smokehouse BBQ brand to Connecticut, and they're celebrating the milestone June 3 with a circus-themed party at their New Haven location. The free, day-long celebration begins at noon and features a magician, a fire thrower, a knife thrower, a sword swallower, a contortionist and foot archer, an aerialist and a unicyclist, along with live music, flash tattoos, ax throwing and carnival games. Guests also have the chance to compete in an amateur apple pie-eating contest. Bear's will offer food and drink specials all day, including custom house brews created for the restaurant by New England Brewing Co. Carnival snacks will be provided by the Friends of the New Haven Animal Shelter, with all donations benefiting the organization. "Connecticut has welcomed us with open arms and hearts for a decade. We are excited to thank everyone for supporting Bear's with this insane party," McDonald said in a statement. "Running a successful restaurant can be a freakin' three-ring circus, so why should our 10th anniversary be any different?" Antoncic added. McDonald and Antoncic opened the first Bear's Smokehouse as a takeout counter in Windsor in 2013, initially taking a space in what was then Bart's Drive-In and later expanding to full restaurants in Windsor, Hartford and New Haven (with another takeout spot in South Windsor). The family-owned business also has food trucks and concession stands at Rentschler Stadium, Dunkin' Donuts-Yard Goats Stadium, Gampel Pavilion and The Big E. Winter Caplanson Over the past decade, the brand has become known for its Kansas City-style barbecue, with smoked meats like pulled pork and chicken, brisket, ribs, Texas sausage and burnt ends. "Bear's favorites" signature items include moink balls (bacon-wrapped smoked meatballs), Macho Nachos with BBQ beans and choice of meat, the Mac Attack (diner's choice of meat over macaroni and cheese) and Bear Attack (a Mac Attack with the addition of cornbread.) Bear's also expanded to the Asheville, North Carolina area during the pandemic, where McDonald and Antoncic's son Collyn McDonald serves as pit boss. See more details about the anniversary party at bearsbbq.com/anniversary. Four Pennsylvania residents, including a teenager, died after an SUV towing a rented trailer collided with a tractor-trailer on Interstate 81 in Montgomery County early Tuesday. The incident near the 120 mile marker on the interstates northbound lanes involved two tractor-trailers and four passenger vehicles, Virginia State Police Public Information Officer Rick Garletts wrote in an email. At about 3:30 a.m. a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, an SUV pulling a trailer, was traveling north at the 120.2 mile marker when it lost control and spun around, police said. It came to rest facing southbound in the northbound travel lanes. Then it was struck by a northbound Freightliner tractor-trailer. Shortly after that crash, a secondary crash occurred, Garletts said, but no one was injured in that incident. The Chevrolets driver, Douangpee Amnatkeo, 54, of Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, died at the crash scene. Two passengers in the Chevrolet also died on the scene Ericssan Kathpratoum, 13, also of Shippensburg, and Monthy Matnopaseuth, 39, of Reading, Pennsylvania. A third passenger, Samiane Kothpratoum, 37, of Shippensburg, was flown to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, where he later died. Police said no one in the Chevrolet SUV was wearing a seat belt. The tractor-trailers driver was not injured. The Virginia Department of Transportation, or VDOT, set up a temporary detour for motorists at northbound exit 118 A to U.S. 11. VDOT later reopened northbound I-81. The crash remains under the investigation of state police. President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday said India is keen to further elevate its defence relations with Cambodia besides increasing tourism and people-to-people contacts. Welcoming Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, the King of Cambodia, at Rashtrapati Bhavan here, Murmu said there is great potential for further growth in trade and investment between India and Cambodia. She said India is keen to further elevate its defence relations with the Southeast Asian country. Murmu also emphasised on the need to make efforts to increase tourism and people-to-people contacts for further elevating bilateral relations between the two countries. Welcoming King Sihamoni on his first visit to India, the President said his visit demonstrates the importance that Cambodia attaches to its ties with India as the two countries share a rich and vibrant relationship. "We value our shared history and consider Cambodia as our civilizational sister country," Murmu said. She said India in its presidency of G-20 has been spearheading the interest of developing countries of the Global South. She appreciated the participation of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen in the inaugural session of the Voice of Global South Summit in February this year. The President congratulated Cambodia for successfully completing the chairmanship of ASEAN last year. Murmu also hosted a banquet in Sihamoni's honour. In her banquet speech, the President said India is privileged to partner Cambodia on its quest for nation building through capacity building, development of human resources, and providing assistance for socio-economic projects. She said India is a believer in the philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family), according to a statement by the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Murmu said the "multifaceted ties between India and Cambodia, and the august presence of His Majesty at Rashtrapati Bhavan with us today, are beautiful expressions of this age-old concept". Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that the GDP numbers are disappointing and there is no reason to cheer. Taking to twitter, he wrote a big paragraph explaining his views. He said, "The economy is not a film like QSQTQuarter Se Quarter Tak. There is absolutely no cause for cheer in today's GDP numbers. They will be spun, but deep structural problems on the double engines of investment and consumption remain. The headline GDP growth is rather meaningless as the real worry lies in the following two numbers: 1. Private consumptionthe biggest part of the economy has grown only by a measly 2.8% at constant prices in Q4. 2. Annual manufacturing GVA growththe backbone of job creationhas fallen sharply from 11.1% to 1.3%. What we have been saying since the #BharatJodoYatra on the deepening divide between the rich and the poor has been proven right by todays numbers and backed up in a well-researched article by Vivek Kaul where he shows that most of India is STILL consuming less than what they used to before the pandemic, whereas the well-to-do are doing much better than before. India, thanks to Modi govts policies, is neither consuming enough nor producing enough." Ahead of his visit to India, Nepal Prime Minister Pushpakamal Dahal Prachanda has said that he would raise long-term power trade issue with New Delhi, hoping that this "bottleneck" will be sorted out and ensure that the Himalayan nation will be a favourable market for its surplus energy. Prachanda, along with a high-level delegation, will travel to India on Wednesday on a four-day official visit for talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi and other leaders to further strengthen the age-old, multifaceted and cordial ties. This will be the 68-year-old Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-Maoist) leader's first bilateral visit abroad after assuming office in December 2022. There are some understandings relating to energy with India, which is of long-term interest to Nepal, the Prime Minister pointed out. We will raise some issues relating to long-term power trade with India during my visit, Prachanda told Nepal's National News Agency (RSS), according to the government daily Gorkhapatra. This is what the Nepalese people have been seeking for many years, Prachanda said. It is our realisation that if we can't find out the proper market for energy after our production starts, then big investments won't come, said the Prime Minister. I think this bottleneck will be sorted out during my visit, he said adding We expect that Nepal will get a favourable market. Nepal on Sunday decided to allow India's Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) Limited to develop a second hydropower project in the country. At present SJVN is developing a 900-MW Arun -III hydroelectric project, a run-of-river located on the Arun River in Eastern Nepal, scheduled to be completed in 2024. A meeting of the Investment Board Nepal (IBN) chaired by Prime Minister Prachanda approved the draft project development agreement (PDA) to be signed with India's state-owned SJVN to develop the 669-megawatt (MW) Lower Arun Hydropower project in eastern Nepal, an official statement said on Sunday. Our main concern for many years is creating an atmosphere for tri-country power trade among Nepal, India and Bangladesh. There has been an agreement in principle to supply 50 MW of power to Bangladesh via the Indian grid for the time being, he said. Besides, I think my visit will pave the way to move forward the matters relating to trade and transit, which has been pending for the past few years, the Prime Minister said. We will also move forward with matters relating to constructing a dry port in Dodhara Chadani. There are several issues besides these, which we will raise in the national interest of Nepal, he said. We will hold constructive dialogue if there is any problem between us, he said. "The border issues being raised at the peoples level and the future of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) Report. We will try to sort out these issues through diplomatic channels," he added. I think both sides are busy with the homework for better outcomes from my visit in the interest of both the countries, said Prachanda. On Sunday, he met former premiers, foreign ministers and leaders of different political parties to discuss matters related to his upcoming visit to India, according to his aides. The Prime Minister said he will also raise the issue of providing air routes to Nepal during the bilateral talks. "We are seriously discussing the matter regarding the air route and we are expecting some positive outcome on the issue," he added. During his visit, the prime minister is also scheduled to pay a courtesy call to President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The prime minister is also scheduled to visit Ujjain and Indore, Madhya Pradesh before returning to Kathmandu on June 3. Minister for Foreign Affairs N P Saud said that he is confident about the positive outcome of the visit. The visit will further strengthen bilateral ties, he said. "There are cordial relations between our two countries, he said. "Keeping in view Nepals energy market we will try to sign a long-term power deal with India," he said. "During the visit we will make efforts to attract Indian investment in Nepals hydro-power sector, creating a favourable atmosphere for its trade by making a huge investment in constructing transmission lines. A conducive atmosphere will be created for exporting electricity to Bangladesh via India," Saud told reporters. "As the Birgunj- Raxaul trading point has become very much congested, we will discuss with India the opening of alternative trading points such as Nepalgunj - Rupaidiya and Biratnagar-Jogbani. The Prime Minister's entourage will include Finance Minister Prakash Mahat, Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Prakash Jwala and Minister for Industry and Commerce Ramesh Rijal besides Foreign Minister Saud. "Various outstanding matters, including the border issue, will come up during the bilateral talks between Nepal and India, Saud said. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has always been a staunch critic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his governance, but things have gone too far on several occasions when Rahul has criticised the government, raised questions on Indian democracy, and even made serious allegations against the ruling party and its leader all of these on foreign soil among foreign people. A similar incident once again happened on Wednesday, May 31, when Rahul Gandhi was present at 'Mohabbat ki Dukaan' event in San Francisco. And this time, Rahul went a few steps forward in his criticism and insulted the new Parliament and the sacred Sengol. Rahul Gandhi claimed that the establishment of the new Parliament by the BJP government was a drama executed to divert people's attention from the real issues that are affecting the nation. "The new parliament house is nothing but a distraction, and the installation of the Sengol (sceptre) was just a drama to divert people. The BJP can't really discuss the real issues facing the country, like unemployment, price rises, and crumbling education systems. Communities like Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, and Dalits are feeling attacked as there is a spread of anger and hatred," said Rahul Gandhi in the U.S. (Image: Twitter/Congress) This, however, isn't the first time that the former Congress President has raised questions against the government and criticised PM Modi. A look at instances when Rahul Gandhi insulted the Indian government on foreign soil: London (March 2023) After his latest remarks made in the US, top on the list is Rahul's controversial London trip. The scion of the Gandhi family, while addressing the Indian diaspora event "London Greets RG," openly criticised the PM Modi-led government and justified his remarks by saying he was speaking all this because he was not allowed to open his mouth in India. "Our microphones are shut when we stand to speak at the parliament." "We are facing an attack on the basic structure of Indian democracy," were the exact words of Rahul Gandhi, which he said during his London trip. He also ripped into the government's misuse of top agencies like the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate. London (May 2022) While speaking at the Ideas for India conference in London, Rahul Gandhi attacked the BJP government and also criticised regional parties, which he said were incapable of taking on the BJP. Rahul Gandhi said the soul of India is under attack from the BJP, and "a soul without a voice means nothing, and what has happened is that Indias voice has been crushed". Gandhi alleged that Indias voice had been crushed by the institutional framework of the country itself, which was becoming parasitical. "So, the deep state, the CBI, the ED, is now chewing the Indian state and eating it, much like in Pakistan," he claimed. UK and Germany (August 2018) Back in 2018, when Rahul was the president of the Congress Party, he charged PM Modi with being "unpatriotic" for using public resentment over the nation's employment issues. During his visit to the UK and Germany, Rahul Gandhi drew parallels between Narendra Modi, then US President Donald Trump, and other "populist" leaders. Malaysia (Mar 2018) While speaking with Indians in Malaysia, Rahul launched a sharp attack against PM Modi's sudden decision to demonetize high-value currency notes in 2016. "If I were prime minister and someone had given me a file with demonetization written on it, I would have thrown it in the dustbin. That is how I would have rolled demonization out," said Rahul. Singapore (March 2018) At a panel discussion held in Singapore at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy in Singapore, he said under Modi's rule, an atmosphere of intimidation in the country is prevalent and politics is dividing the people, which is used by BJP leaders to win elections. "If you ask me what I am proud of about my country, it is the idea of plurality. Its the idea that people in India can say anything they want, do anything they want, and they wont face any problem, and that is being challenged," he said. Bahrain (January 2018) Speaking to a convention of NRIs in Bahrain, Rahul Gandhi's first foreign visit after becoming party president, he slammed the BJP-led government in India over its inability to provide jobs to the Indian youth. In Bahrain, Rahul claimed that the PM's inability to generate employment was creating widespread anger and hatred among the people of India. "The anger is visible in the streets and is rising rapidly" against the government, he said. US (September 2017) During a trip to the US back in 2017, Rahul took jibes at the PM Modi-led central government as he spoke on the issue of 'India at 70' at the University of California, Berkeley. "The idea of non-violence is under attack today, yet it is the only idea that can take humanity forward," he said. He also claimed that the Indian government was paying attention only to the top 100 companies in India. Currently, Rahul Gandhi is facing disqualification from his Lok Sabha membership for one of his insulting remarks, in which he indirectly called PM Modi and the entire Modi community thieves. Final preparations for a major summit of European leaders were being made in Moldova on Wednesday, a sign of the Eastern European countrys ambitions to draw closer to the West and break with its Russian-dominated past amid the war in neighboring Ukraine. Moldova, Europes poorest country which is cradled by Ukraine on three sides, is putting its best foot forward for the second meeting of the European Political Community on Thursday, a gathering which will bring together around 50 leaders from 47 countries in what organizers are calling the largest international event in the countrys history. In the capital, Chisinau, and on the 35-kilometer (21-mile) route to the rural summit venue, roads were being resurfaced, crosswalks painted and EU flags hung in anticipation of the arrival of the heads of state and government from European Union countries and other continental nations. The choice to hold the summit in Moldova, a former Soviet republic of around 2.6 million people, is seen as a message to the Kremlin both by the EU and by the pro-Western Moldovan government, which received EU candidate status in June of last year, at the same time as Ukraine. The attendance of heavy hitters like German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen speaks to the blocs commitment to ensuring Russias ambitions to control the country do not go unchallenged. One of the big messages is the place where this meeting is going to happen, said one EU official, who asked not to be identified. Youll sit in Moscow and youll see 47 countries in your immediate close neighborhood meeting together. Thats, I think, quite an important message, the official said. Russia is chronically critical of Moldovas lean toward the West, claiming this presents security concerns and shows the hegemonic intentions of the United States and its allies in the EU. Last week, after the deployment of the EU Partnership Mission to Moldova, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Gazulin said that the EU seeks to consolidate the pro-Western course pursued by the current leadership of Moldova (and) set up the country for confrontation with Russia, ignoring the interests and mood of the population. The increase in cooperation between Chisinau and NATO and the EU in the military-political sphere, of course, cannot but cause us concern, Gazulin said in an interview with state news agency RIA-Novosti. There has been consistent speculation that Russia would use the war in Ukraine as a bridgehead for taking control of Moldovas separatist region of Transnistria, where Russia already has a military contingent. On Monday, the head of the defense committee in the upper house of the Russian parliament, Viktor Bondarev, called for strengthening Russias military presence in Transnistria, along with other places, citing the growing malign influence of the United States in the region. Moldovan President Maia Sandu has warned of plots by Moscow to overthrow her government using external saboteurs. Several incidents have also occurred in recent months involving missiles that have traversed Moldova's skies and apparent debris from the war in Ukraine that has been found on its territory. Sandu has called the summit a testament to growing unity on the (European) continent, while Moldovan officials have pointed to the summits venue at Mimi Castle, an opulent late-19th-century winery only around 12 miles (20 kilometers) from both Ukraine and Transnistria, as a defiant signal of the EUs dedication to the region in the face of Russias aggression. The summit is a "resolute reaffirmation of our unwavering dedication to peace, a strong condemnation of Russias invasion (and of Moldova's) continued solidarity with Ukraine, Sandu said. It is the second such meeting of the EPC, the brainchild of French President Macron, who envisioned it as a new space for political and security cooperation, cooperation in the energy sector, in transport, investments, infrastructures, the free movement of persons and in particular, of our youth. Yet while the war in Ukraine has served to boost unity between the EU and countries to its east, the unwieldy group of leaders will not be able to hide some of its internal conflicts. One major meeting is expected to include EU Council President Charles Michel, Scholz and Macron, along with the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan, two Caucasian neighbor nations that have been fighting a war over a contested territory. Another lighting rod will be the recent flare-up in ethnic tensions between neighboring Serbia and Kosovo, whose leaders are also expected at the summit. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a three-day visit to South Africa beginning Thursday to participate in a conclave of five-nation grouping BRICS in Capetown. From South Africa, he will travel to Namibia for a visit from June 4 to 6, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). "The external affairs minister will visit South Africa from June 1 to 3 to participate in the BRICS foreign ministers meeting being held in Capetown," the MEA said in a statement. External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar will pay official visits to the Republic of South Africa the Republic of Namibia from 1-6 June. He will visit South Africa from 1- 3 June to participate in the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting being held in Capetown. Besides attending pic.twitter.com/cRJIp0xrZ9 ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 The BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) brings together five of the largest developing countries of the world, representing 41 per cent of the global population, 24 per cent of the global GDP and 16 per cent of the global trade Besides attending the BRICS meeting in Capetown, Jaishankar will also hold a bilateral meeting with his South African counterpart Naledi Pandor. He will call on the President of South Africa and is expected to hold bilateral meetings with other BRICS foreign ministers and participate in 'Friends of BRICS'. Jaishankar will also have an interaction with the Indian diaspora in Capetown, the MEA said. His visit to Namibia will be the first by an external affairs minister of India to the African nation. "During the visit the external affairs minister will call on the top leadership of the country and also meet with other ministers of the government," the MEA said. It said Jaishankar will also co-chair the inaugural session of the joint commission meeting with the Namibian deputy prime minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. He will also interact with the Indian diaspora based in Namibia. "The external affairs minister's visit to South Africa and Namibia is expected to further strengthen India's strong bilateral relations with these two countries," the MEA said. The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday granted an extension of three days to Imran Khan, the Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), on his bail plea in the Al-Qadir Trust case and instructed him to approach the appropriate accountability court within that period. The order was issued by a two-judge bench consisting of Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb and Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz. Before the court appearance, a video posted on PTI's official Twitter account depicted Imran Khan entering the IHC while his security personnel held up bulletproof shields. pic.twitter.com/8g4cogwh8C PTI (@PTIofficial) May 31, 2023 The allegations in the Al-Qadir Trust case suggest that the former Pakista PM Imran Khan, and his wife, Bushra Bibi, acquired billions of rupees and hundreds of kanals of land from a real estate company. These assets were purportedly obtained for the purpose of legalizing PKR 50 billion, which had been identified and repatriated to Pakistan by the UK during the previous PTI government. On May 9, Imran Khan was swiftly taken away from the premises of the IHC by paramilitary forces, resulting in widespread protests with a violent nature throughout the country. Following his detention, the PTI chief promptly sought release by approaching the IHC. However, the court deemed his arrest to be lawful. Imran Khan's bail extended in two other cases Additionally, the IHC also entertained two additional petitions submitted by the PTI chief. These petitions addressed the alleged infringement of Section 144 and sought to restrict the Islamabad police from arresting Imran Khan in any cases registered subsequent to May 9. The petitions were presented before a bench consisting of Justice Aurangzeb and Justice Aurangzeb Alamgir. Imran Khan, accompanied by his legal representative Ali Gohar and Additional Attorney General Munawwar Iqbal, attended the hearing, reported Dawn. A number of cases have already been decided, Dawn quoted Justice Aurangzeb at the outset of the hearing. He also noted that every day a new case was brought to court. For his part, Imrans lawyer said that over 150 cases were registered against his client which means that he has to appear for investigation in every case. Following the arguments presented, the court granted an extension of Imran Khan's protective bail for 10 days in response to both petitions. Furthermore, the court issued an order prohibiting the police from arresting him in any cases filed within the jurisdiction of Islamabad after May 9. During the hearing, PTI lawyer Sher Afzal made a request to the court, seeking permission to present arguments on cases registered at the F-8 Katcheri in the IHC. The petitioner has security concerns, he cant appear in the F-8 Katcheri, he argued. A majority of the cases have been registered there but appearing before that court is not possible. In addition, Sher Afzal made a further request for the case scheduled at F-8 Katcheri to be relocated to the Federal Judicial Complex. The court accepted the plea and granted the request. Bushra Bibis arrest not needed: NAB In the meantime, an Islamabad accountability court, presided over by Judge Mohammad Bashir, deemed the bail application of Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, in the Al-Qadir Trust case as "infructuous." This decision came after NAB Investigation Officer Mian Umer Nadeem stated that her arrest was "not needed". During the hearing, Bushra Bibi, her counsel Khawaja Harris, and NAB Deputy Prosecutor General Sardar Muzaffar Abbasi were present in court. At the start of the proceedings, Abbasi said, Imran issued a statement on May 13, where he used inappropriate language for NAB, the chairman and spread false propaganda against the accountability watchdog. He argued that Imran's statements were made with the intention of pressuring NAB. We never raided or attacked Imrans Zaman Park residence, neither did we ever issue arrest warrants for his wife, the Pakistani prosecutor general said. Abbasi asserted that NAB held no personal grudge against anyone and emphasized that since no arrest warrants had been issued, the bail plea could be dismissed. In response, Advocate Harris stated that if they were expected to listen to NAB's virtues, they would start with the Supreme Court's order. He pointed out that NAB had not even sent a single summons notice, yet the inquiry was converted into an investigation, reported Dawn. Harris further informed the court that Bushra Bibi had accompanied Imran to the NAB office on the court's order, but NAB had only called Imran inside and informed Bushra Bibi that it was not her turn for investigation. Bushra Bibi kept waiting in the car for Imran for six hours, Harris said. Here, Judge Bashir said, Khawaja Harris sahib, anger does not look good on your face. Nadeem, the investigation officer, reiterated: No arrest warrants of any kind were issued for Bushra Bibi. Bushra Bibis arrest is not needed. Consequently, the court declared her bail plea as "infructuous" and dismissed it. Its time to test Lebanons strawberries against the climate. The Lebanon Strawberry Festival returns June 1 through 4, the 114th iteration of the event. Organizers last year rolled out a bigger, more ambitious version of a staple community gathering they say had begun to wither on the vine. And the latest version of the Strawberry Festival returned in 2022 after a two-year hiatus for one of the deadliest pandemics in U.S. history, hasnt yet had a good trial run after historic rain likely dampened attendance. It was wet, acknowledged festival director Cindy Kerby. Organizers estimate 12,000 attended the 2022 event. About 37,000 attended in 2019; and Kerby estimates 18,000 attended in 2018 the year an all-volunteer board began pushing to modernize Strawberry Festival with national music acts and a stage. The board already has tweaked the event format, making some changes to security and adding an all-ages lineup of comedians and musicians wandering the festival grounds to bulk up the festivals roster. Changes Some locals were grumpy about pricing in 2022, the first year the Strawberry Festival began admitting visitors by ticket. The festival had charged by the car before last year, so anyone walking to the event could get in free of charge. Kerby said thats the normal process for an event transitioning from free to admission-based. Since starting its efforts to modernize in 2018, the festival is much more organized, Kerby said. "And 'professional?' Im not sure thats the right term. But the festival has been stepped up a few notches since it was free, she said. Kerby joined the festival board in 2015, when she helped organize the festivals grand parade historically among the longest in the state, with floats departing from Walmart, then looping through downtown Lebanon, about 2 miles away. By 2017, Kerby said, the board had just nine people left. Now 40 serve the board, the organization that gives time to secure all the sponsorships and vendors and space the festival needs to exist. No one is paid. The people putting in 8,000 hours each year are 100% volunteer, Kerby said. New ideas flowed in with renewed interest in saving the event, a multigenerational touchstone for some in Lebanon. They recruited big headliners and rented a big stage. But entertainers cost twice what they used to and state regulations on festivals quickly eat into the events budget of roughly $500,000. Were charging to keep affording to do what were doing, Kerby said. Lineup Jessie Leigh, a country musician from Estacada, plays at the top of the lineup on the festivals opening night, Thursday, June 1. An Eagles tribute band plays the top slot Friday. Diamond Rio, a Grammy award-winning country quintet, headlines the festival on Saturday. Kerby believes the changes are worth the cost. Strawberry Festival has clocked visitors from Colorado, Utah and Washington The festival was not that kind of destination before, she said. At the same time, Kerby said, the Strawberry Festival holds on to some of its community event roots. There still are two parades and a court of scholarship-seeking high school students looking to be crowned Strawberry Queen. And there is strawberry shortcake, billed as the worlds largest, historically free and doled out on a first-come, first-serve basis. Its still free, Kerby said of the shortcake. You just have to pay to get into the festival. Attendees can pay $8 for admission in advance or $10 at the gate one gate. Last year, the festival had three. Or they can buy a $25 season pass for access to all four days of the Strawberry Festival. Children from birth through age 12 get in at no cost. Concerts are included in price of festival admission. Its $40 for a bracelet granting unlimited single-day access to carnival-like rides, or $30 in advance. Kerby said she thinks the festival will surprise people who haven't been in years and maybe are holding out after pushback to the newly rolled out costs of admission. "Give it a try," she said. Related stories: Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpakamal Dahal 'Prachanda' on Wednesday began a four-day visit to India that is expected to inject a fresh momentum in the already close relations between the two countries. It is the first bilateral trip abroad by the 68-year-old Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-Maoist) leader after he assumed the top office in December 2022. He was received at the airport in Delhi by Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi. "PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted. A high-level delegation is accompanying Prachanda. He and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold talks on Thursday following which both sides are expected to sign a number of agreements. The Nepalese prime minister is also scheduled to call on President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. Nepal is important for India in the context of its overall strategic interests in the region, and the leaders of the two countries have often noted the age-old "Roti Beti" relationship. Nepal shares a border of over 1850 km with five Indian states - Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Land-locked Nepal relies heavily on India for the transportation of goods and services. Nepal's access to the sea is through India, and it imports a predominant proportion of its requirements from and through India. The India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950 forms the bedrock of the special relations between the two countries. On Friday morning, the Nepalese prime minister will travel to Indore and will leave for Kathmandu the next day. The rocket failed when the second stage did not ignite, state media said. South Korean military personnel recover what is believed to be a part of the rocket that North Korea said crashed into the sea off the west coast of the Korean peninsula, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. On the heels of a failed spy satellite launch on Wednesday, North Korea vowed that a second launch would come soon, state media reported. Taking off from the Sohae Satellite Launching ground at 6:27 a.m., the Malligyong-1 satellite mounted on the new-type Chollima-1 rocket lost thrust over the Yellow Sea, the state-run Korean Central News Agency, or KCNA reported. The second stage of the rocket engine did not ignite properly, the report said, citing remarks made by a spokesperson from the National Aerospace Development Administration. Scientists, technicians and experts concerned [will] start discovering concrete causes, KCNA said. After determining them, the scientists will take urgent scientific and technological measures to overcome them and conduct the second launch as soon as possible through various part tests. Had the launch been successful it would have been the first time North Korea managed to place a reconnaissance satellite in its proper orbit. In seven attempts, only two satellites have reached orbit but both failed shortly after, U.S.-based satellite imagery expert Jacob Bogle told RFAs Korean Service. It's a cliche to say that space is hard, but that's because it is. Failures commonly happen in both government-led space programs like the ESA as well as in privately-funded programs such as SpaceX, said Bogle. South Korean military personnel recover what is believed to be a part of the rocket that North Korea said crashed into the sea off the west coast of the Korean peninsula, Wednesday, May 31, 2023. Credit: South Korea Defense Ministry/Handout via Reuters Bogle said it was very likely that North Korea would try again. The launch window was from May 31 to June 11, and they launched on the very first day of that window. We don't know what the internal decision-making process was but this could have been a rushed launch, he said. North Korea is the only country in the region without a reliable spacefaring capability, and Kim Jong Un has placed a lot of importance on acquiring it. North Korea will likely try another satellite launch in the near-term. North Koreas account of the failed launch is likely true, the Rand Corporations Bruce Bennett told RFA. This is possible, but other failures could also have happened. Kim has already promised to try again, so I think we can expect it, said Bennett. The goal of the launch was to put the spy satellite in a polar orbit, optimal for spy satellites, he said. A polar satellite travels roughly over the North Pole and the South pole as it circles the Earth. It flies at a much lower altitude, usually 200 to 1,000 km, said Bennett. A polar orbit is usually used for reconnaissance [and] lets them see areas all over the Earth as the Earth turns, and the altitude is low enough for relatively good pictures on a periodic basis (weekly) for any given location. Renewed condemnation Despite its failure, members of the international community reminded North Korea that the launch, even despite its failure, violated U.N. resolutions meant to limit Pyongyangs missile and nuclear capabilities. The EU strongly condemns the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) launch using ballistic military technology that occurred on 31 May, Nabila Massrali, the regional blocs Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy said in a statement. The EU calls on the DPRK to cease all actions that raise tensions and instead choose the path of dialogue with the main parties. The International Maritime Organizations Maritime Safety Commission adopted a resolution that condemned North Korea for conducting the launch without proper notification and for not adhering to UN resolutions, and called for North Korea to cease unlawful and unannounced ballistic missile launches across international shipping lanes. Lawmakers Anne-Marie Trevelyan of the U.K. and Young Kim of the U.S. also wrote tweets condemning the launch. Kim Jong Un's consistent & rogue aggression must be taken seriously by the United States & our Indo-Pacific allies, Rep. Kim (R-Calif.) said. We must stand firm in holding him accountable & working toward complete, verifiable, & irreversible denuclearization of North Korea. Reported by Lee Sangmin and Kim Soyoung for RFA Korean. Guards have severely beaten and interrogated 24 inmates of a prison in Myanmars eastern Bago region, according to sources close to the prison. Three of the inmates of Kyaik Sa Kaw Prison in Daik-U township were beaten to death according to one source, while others in critical condition were put in a dark room without food for four days. The interrogations were held over several days starting May 25. The source, who wished to remain anonymous for safety reasons, said the prisoners were accused of communicating with members of the Bago Peoples Defense Force who are sheltering in territory controlled by the powerful Karen National Union ethnic organization. They were beaten and interrogated for having connections with the armed group, said the source. They couldnt say no. How could they have any contact from prison? The source said the prison authorities have not yet informed the families of the three prisoners believed to have died. Others close to the prison identified one of the dead as Thant Zin Win. He was in charge of training and recruiting people for the Bago township Peoples Defense Force. He was arrested along with other members of the anti-junta militia on December 14, 2022. Thant Zin Win was charged with breaking several sections of the Counter-Terrorism Law and sentenced to 80 years in prison, according to a Bago People's Defense Force statement on Saturday. Sources close to the prison speculated that the interrogations took place in retaliation for a prison break at Taungoo in Bago region on May 18. Inmates grabbed guns from prison guards and nine managed to escape into the jungle where they were met by members of a local Peoples Defense Force. RFA called Prison Department spokesman Naing Win on Wednesday to find out details of the alleged beatings and deaths but no one answered. Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn. Military junta authorities are threatening and sometimes arresting people who display photos of Myanmars former leader Aung San Suu Kyi in their homes, residents in Yangon, Mandalay and the Ayeyarwaddy region told Radio Free Asia. In Ayeyarwady, soldiers and police often make surprise visits to civilian homes to check for any unregistered guests. If they see pictures of prominent politicians, including Suu Kyi, hanging on walls or stored on mobile phones, they threaten them with arrest, residents said. Of course they have malice toward her, said a resident of Mandalay, where home inspections have also taken place. Their brainless heads cannot accept the idea of Mother Su or Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. In fact, we the people never like the dictator. We never like the dictator by any means, referring to junta chief Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing. Suu Kyi is often referred to with the honorific Daw, which means aunt. During her 35-year political career, she has been repeatedly arrested and prosecuted by successive military governments. The Nobel laureate is currently being held in solitary confinement at a prison in the capital, Naypyidaw. Similar arrests of civilians for keeping photos of Suu Kyi happened under previous military dictatorships. Photos of her reappeared in homes after she was released from house arrest in 2010. A supporter of Myanmar's deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi with a tattoo of her portrait on his head participates in a protest in Yangon, Myanmar, Jan. 3, 2014. Credit: Gemunu Amarasinghe/AP Landslide victory The practice became more popular after the National League for Democracy formed a civilian government following a landslide victory in the 2015 national elections. Suu Kyi served as Myanmars de facto leader after 2015, and some homes also displayed photos of her father, Gen. Aung San, who led the country to independence from British rule in the 1940s and is regarded by many as the father of modern Myanmar. The NLD also won the 2020 national elections, but the military staged a coup on Feb. 1, 2021 and arrested civilian leaders of the national and state governments, including Suu Kyi, Myint and several dozen other senior officials who were in Naypyidaw for the convening of the newly elected lower house of parliament. Since the coup, Myanmar has fallen to the bottom of international rankings for freedom of speech. Residents in Ayeyarwady, where support for Suu Kyi and the deposed National League for Democracy party is strong, have been living in fear because of the inspections and threats from the military, according to Sin Yan Shin, who heads the local Pathein Guerrilla Force. Not many people hang the photos of State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi or President Win Myint in their homes as of late, he said, referring to another former leader arrested by the junta. Supporters of Myanmar's National League for Democracy party display their mobile phone with a picture of Suu Kyi as they gather to celebrate unofficial election results outside the NLD headquarters in Yangon, Myanmar, Nov. 9, 2015. Credit: Gemunu Amarasinghe/AP Under any law that they name A resident of Yangon, the former capital and the countrys largest city, had to sign a promissory petition recently because she was found to have hung a photo of Suu Kyi at home, according to a man close to the resident. They took him to the police station, he said. I heard that he had to sign a confession there and come back. The resident refused to answer many of RFAs questions, saying she was concerned about her personal security. They can visit your home by surprise at any time to check if there are any guests, the resident said. They can take action against you under any law that they name if they see something they dont like. This week, most of the civilians who experienced threats or arrests over their involvement with photos of Suu Kyi refused to answer RFAs questions as they were too concerned for their security. Please keep this confidential, said one person. Or else, Ill be in trouble. RFA called a military junta spokesperson to ask about the arrests and threats over the photos, but there was no response. A child at a tea shop decorated with pictures of opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi and her father Gen. Aung San watches TV in Yangon on March 30, 2012. Credit: Ye Aung Thu/AFP Instilling fear They are insane, said veteran lawyer Kyee Myint. Power craziness is the worst. They will do anything to stay in power. The junta is trying to rule the country by instilling fear in peoples minds, he said. Fear is very bad for people. The military showed many examples of terror to put fear in the peoples mind. They suppress people who are scared even more. Renowned artist Nu Yin, who is famous for her portraits of Suu Kyi, said the lack of freedom of expression was one of the reasons she fled the country following the coup. I could guess what they would do to me if I stayed, she told RFA. They see democracy and democracy activists as their opponents or enemies. They dont know better than to respect human rights. They dont cherish the truth. Translated by Myo Min Aung. Edited by Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster. Palau has reported 4 unwanted forays into its waters by Chinese research vessels since 2018. Palaus President Surangel Whipps Jr. says his government will send a diplomatic note to Chinas embassy to the Federated States of Micronesia over the incident. A Chinese research vessel appeared to show interest in Palaus undersea fiber optic cable during a days-long foray into the Pacific island countrys waters, a government official said. Palau, one of a handful of Pacific nations to recognize Taiwan rather than Beijing and an ally of the United States, has reported four unwanted incursions into its remote waters by Chinese research vessels since 2018. Clearly they [China] do not respect the rules-based order, Palaus President Surangel Whipps Jr. said on Tuesday. Whipps said his government will send a diplomatic note to Chinas embassy to the Federated States of Micronesia. The research vessel, Haiyang Dizhi Liuhao, entered Palaus exclusive economic zone without providing any notification on the afternoon of May 24, according to Palaus National Security Coordinator Jennifer Anson. It slowed to about 1-2 knots as it passed over Palaus fiber optic cable. It continued with questionable maneuvers, passing about 45 nautical miles from Kayangel [Palau's northernmost state and islands]. Attempts by the Joint Operation Center to contact the vessel via VHF radio were unsuccessful, Anson said. Palaus dozens of islands, between the Philippines and Guam, have a combined land area of about 189 square miles 2.5 times the size of Washington D.C. and an exclusive economic zone spanning some 238,000 square miles of ocean. Under international law, nations have rights to economic exploitation of a 200 nautical mile zone around their land borders. The seas beyond a 12 nautical mile territorial zone are international waters so foreign vessels can pass through them. However unnotified research vessel activity in the exclusive economic zone could be perceived as an economic or security threat. Due to bad weather, Palaus maritime security force couldnt deploy its patrol boat or aircraft to intercept the Chinese vessel, according to the government. On Monday, the China-flagged ship appeared to be heading toward Micronesia. Chinas embassy in Micronesia did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment. Island nations in the vast Pacific Ocean have become the focus of increased rivalry between China and the U.S. Growing Chinese influence. Beijings influence in the region has increased over several decades through a combination of trade, infrastructure and aid as it seeks to isolate Taiwan diplomatically, gain allies in international institutions and advance its economic and security interests. The U.S. has recently sought to reinforce its close relationships with Palau, Micronesia and the Marshall islands in the militarily strategic northwestern Pacific. It provides economic assistance to the three countries and has rights to military control of their territories under compacts of free association. Palau, home to about 20,000 people, earlier this month signed an agreement for increased economic assistance from Washington. The U.S. military also plans to install over-the-horizon radar in Palau by 2026, adding to its early-warning capabilities for the western Pacific as Chinas military strength increases. The previous incursion by a Chinese vessel into Palaus waters was in July 2022 when the Yuan Wang 5 passed within 90 nautical waters of Palaus southwestern islands. Yuan Wang 5, which bristles with surveillance technology, has been described by Chinas state media as mainly undertaking maritime tracking, monitoring and communication tasks concerning rockets, satellites, spaceships and China's space station. Another research vessel, Da Yang Hao, stayed in Palaus exclusive economic zone for seven days in December 2021. Conducting research without authorization and carrying out questionable activities within Palaus waters threatens security and disregards sovereignty and rules-based order, Anson said. BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news service. Aleksei Navalny, the Kremlin's biggest foe and Russia's most prominent political prisoner, marks his 47th birthday on June 4 in solitary confinement in prison, as supporters held rallies and individual protests to highlight his plight, leading to dozens of arrests and detentions. Navalny is serving sentences that add up to 11 1/2 years for violating the terms of a parole, contempt of court, and embezzlement through fraud that he and his supporters have repeatedly rejected as politically motivated and designed to silence him. He is currently in a punitive solitary confinement at a prison in the Vladimir region east of Moscow. "As always, on my birthday, I want to thank all the people I've met in my life. The good ones for having helped and still helping me. The bad ones for the fact that my experience with them has taught me something. Thanks to my family for always being there for me!" Navalny wrote on Twitter. "But the biggest thank you and biggest salute I want to give today goes to all political prisoners in Russia, Belarus, and other countries. Most of them ...have it much harder than me. I think about them all the time. Their resilience inspires me every day," he added. Risking their own detention amid President Vladimir Putin's crackdown on any dissent, supporters held individual pickets in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and elsewhere in the country. A heavy security presence was seen in central Moscow, with National Guard troops stationed near Pushkin Square. According to OVD-Info, an independent human rights defense and media group, several people were detained in the capital for holding signs in support of the activist, including a woman identified as Yekaterina Lubyanaya, who was holding a balloon with "Happy birthday!" written on it. OVD-Info said that more than 100 people had been detained in 23 cities at rallies and individual pickets by late on June 4. At least four detainees were minors and one journalist was held, it said, adding that some were eventually released from custody. Demonstrations were also reported in several European cities and in Japan and Australia. Navalny has been in prison since February 2021 following his arrest one month earlier after he returned from Germany, where he was treated for a near-fatal poisoning that he blamed on the Kremlin, which has denied any involvement. He and his team have said the charges against him are trumped up for his efforts to expose corruption in the Russian government. WATCH: Russia's most famous political prisoner spends most of his time in a 2.5-by-3-meter isolation cell. Supporters of Aleksei Navalny have created a traveling exhibition complete with a mock-up of the cell. A Moscow court has set a June 6 date for a hearing for a new trial for Navalny on a charge of extremism, which could keep him in prison for 30 years. He also said an investigator told him that he would also face a separate military court trial on terrorism charges that potentially carry a life sentence. On June 2, Navalny released excerpts of his correspondence with prison administrators detailing sarcastic demands for outlandish things such as a bottle of moonshine and a pet kangaroo. Prison officials denied all of his requests, according to the correspondence, often in stilted, bureaucratic Russian. "When you are sitting in a punishment isolation cell and have little entertainment, you can have fun with correspondence with the administration," Navalny said on Twitter in a series of tweets posted on June 2, apparently by his team. Among the items he requested was a megaphone to be given to the prisoner in a nearby cell "so he can yell even louder." Another was a request for an inmate who "killed a man with his bare hands" to be awarded with the highest rank in karate. "The question of awarding eastern martial-arts qualifications is not handled by the administration," the prison wrote back on April 28. Prison officials also turned down requests for moonshine, tobacco for rolling cigarettes, a balalaika, and the kangaroo. In response to his wish for a pet kangaroo, the prison wrote: "The animal identified in your request relates to the double-crested marsupial.... Your request is left without satisfaction." In mock outrage over the refusal, Navalny said he would continue to fight for his "inalienable right to own a kangaroo." The politician said inmates can have a pet if the prison administration allows it. With reporting by Current Time, Reuters, and AP Welcome back to The Farda Briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter that tracks the key issues in Iran and explains why they matter. To subscribe, click here. I'm RFE/RL correspondent Golnaz Esfandiari. Here's what I've been following during the past week and what I'm watching for in the days ahead. The Big Issue A revolutionary court in Iran this week began the trials of two female journalists who helped break the story of Mahsa Aminis death. Aminis death in September soon after she was arrested by Irans morality police for allegedly violating the countrys hijab law triggered months of nationwide protests against the clerical establishment. Reporters Nilufar Hamedi and Elahe Mohammadi helped expose the case of Amini to the world by reporting, respectively, from the hospital where she died and her funeral. The women, who have been held in pretrial detention since September, face a number of charges that include "collaborating with the hostile government of America, conspiracy and collusion to commit crimes against national security, and propaganda against the establishment." The trials are being held behind closed doors, despite widespread calls inside and outside Iran for them to be open to the public. The women have complained that they were allowed to meet their lawyers only last week. Hamedi denied all charges against her as her trial began on May 30, her husband said. The 30-year-old said she "had performed her work as a journalist within the framework of the law and did not take any action against Iran's security," her husband, Mohammad Hossein Ajorlu, wrote on Twitter. Mohammadis trial began a day earlier. Her lawyer, Shahabeddin Mirlohi, said the Tehran Revolutionary Court was not qualified to rule on the cases. Revolutionary courts mainly deal with prominent political cases and are seen to be less regulated and more hard-line in their judgments than ordinary courts. Why It Matters: Hamedi and Mohammadi are being tried for simply doing their job. Hamedi of the Shargh daily had reported from the Tehran hospital where Amini died from the injuries she allegedly suffered in custody. Mohammadi of the Hammihan daily reported from Amini's funeral in her hometown of Saghez, where the first protests erupted. Their cases have highlighted the Iranian authorities renewed crackdown on dissent in the wake of the antiestablishment protests. What's Next: Rights groups and media watchdogs are closely watching the trial of Hamedi and Mohammadi, who have both been hailed for their reporting and honored by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Shargh editor-in-chief Mehdi Rahmanian expressed hope that the two will be acquitted and able to return to their jobs. But the fact that the trials are being presided over by hard-line judge Abolqasem Salavati, who is known for handing out harsh sentences, is potentially bad news for the reporters. Stories You Might Have Missed Tensions remain high following the deadly clashes between Iranian and Taliban border troops as tensions over water supplies boiled over. But while both Tehran and the Taliban are doubling down on their water rights, they are leaving the door open for a diplomatic resolution. The Iranian government has submitted a draft bill to the parliament that calls for tougher measures against women who do not observe the Islamic dress code in public. But the proposed legislation has angered hard-liners who say the bill does not go far enough. What We're Watching Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said he would welcome full diplomatic relations with Egypt, during a May 29 meeting with Omans Sultan Haitham bin Tarik in Tehran. Ties between Tehran and Cairo deteriorated sharply following the Islamic Revolution in 1979 and the ousting of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who was granted asylum in Egypt where he later died. The two countries have maintained diplomatic contacts. "We welcome the Omani Sultan's statement about Egypt's willingness to resume relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran and we have no problem in this regard," Khamenei said, according to his official website. Why It Matters: Khameneis comments come as Tehran seeks to improve its ties with regional powers. In March, Iran and Saudi Arabia, longtime rivals, agreed to reestablish diplomatic ties. The surprise agreement was brokered by China. According to reports, Iranian and Egyptian officials have held behind-closed-door meetings over improving relations since March. That's all from me for now. Don't forget to send me any questions, comments, or tips that you have. Until next time, Golnaz Esfandiari If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here. It will be sent to your inbox every Wednesday. Water has exposed cracks in the Taliban's fragile relationship with Tehran, with both sides exchanging pointed barbs over scarce supplies before coming to deadly blows along the Afghan-Iranian border. Tensions remain high following the deaths of troops from both sides on May 27, with Taliban and Iranian officials digging in on their positions with increased military activity and fresh warnings. But while disputes over water security are expected to intensify between the two drought-stricken countries, both sides appear to be keeping the door open for dialogue on the issue while boosting cooperation in other areas of mutual concern. The deadly firefight took place across the shared border between southeastern Iran and southwestern Afghanistan, with each side accusing the other of firing first. Social media footage showed Taliban heavy weaponry streaming to the border in the Kang district of Nimroz Province, where officials said one Taliban border guard was killed and several people were wounded after an exchange of heavy gunfire. Iranian media, meanwhile, said up to three Iranian border guards were killed and several people wounded in its southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan Province, where Iran has worked to fortify its border as tensions over water supplies rose over the past two weeks. Following the incident, the Taliban has continued to push back on Iran's claim that it is not honoring a water treaty ironed out by the two sides in 1973. "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan considers dialogue to be a reasonable way for any problem," Taliban Defense Ministry spokesman Enayatullah Khawarazmi said in a statement on May 28, referring to the official name of the Taliban's unrecognized government. "Making excuses for war and negative actions is not in the interest of any of the parties." Iran has continued its harder line, with national police commander Brigadier-General Ahmadreza Radan saying the same day that "the border forces of the Islamic republic of Iran will decisively respond to any border trespassing and aggression, and the current authorities of Afghanistan must be held accountable for their unmeasured and contrary actions to international principles." But Iranian officials, too, have expressed the need for a diplomatic solution, with high-ranking security official Mohammad Ismail Kothari describing the dispute as "fighting between children of the same house" while rejecting that Tehran would resort to the "military option." Big Dam Issues Water is a precious commodity in both southwestern Afghanistan, one of the country's most productive agricultural areas, and in southeastern Iran, one of several arid areas of the country where water scarcity has fueled public protests. But with Afghanistan in control of upriver water sources that feed low-lying wetlands and lakes in Iran's southeast, the Taliban finds itself with a rare tool for leverage in its relationship with Tehran. The problem -- or the solution, depending on which side you consider -- stems from the construction of major dam projects in Afghanistan that in combination with increased drought and other factors have restricted the flow of water to the Sistan Basin. The border-straddling basin depends on perennial flooding to fill what used to be a vast wildlife oasis and was home to the massive Hamun Lake, which now consists of three smaller seasonal lakes -- Hamun-e Helmand in Iran and Hamun-e Sabari and Hamun-e Puzak in both Afghanistan and Iran. The longstanding issue of replenishing the basin with water came to the forefront earlier this month following comments by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and President Ebrahim Raisi. Amir-Abdollahian, in a call with his Taliban counterpart, Amir Khan Muttaqi, demanded the Afghan authorities open the gates of the inland Kajaki Dam that pools water from the Helmand River "so both the people of Afghanistan and Iran can be hydrated." Shortly afterward, Raisi upped the ante during a visit to Sistan-Baluchistan on May 18 by warning the "rulers of Afghanistan to immediately give the people of Sistan-Baluchistan their water rights." He added that the Taliban should take his words "seriously" and not say "they were not told." The Taliban has consistently denied the accusation that it was not complying with the 1973 treaty and said that even if the Kajaki Dam were opened there would not be enough water to reach Iran. But just two days after Raisi's threats, the Taliban appeared to twist the knife by inaugurating a new irrigation project that involved completing the construction of the Bakhshabad Dam on the Farah River, which feeds the Sistan Basin from the north. Contentious Water Treaty According to the 1973 treaty, Afghanistan is committed to sharing water from the Helmand River with Iran at the rate of 26 cubic meters of water per second, or 850 million cubic meters per year. But the accord also allows for less water to be delivered in cases of low water levels, which have been affected by persistent drought and the construction of new dams in Afghanistan, including the Kamal Khan Dam on the Helmand River that was completed in 2021 shortly before the Taliban seized power in Kabul. The Taliban's deputy prime minister for economic affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, said on May 22 that Kabul was "committed to the water treaty of 1973 but the drought that exists in Afghanistan and region should not be ignored." "The pain of the people of Sistan-Baluchistan is our pain," he added. "Our hearts melt for them as much as they melt for the people of Afghanistan, but we also suffer from a shortage of water." Cooperation on the water issue was previously seen as a sign of deepening ties between Afghanistan's Sunni Taliban rulers and Shi'a-majority Iran. In January 2022, the Taliban released water from the Kamal Khan Dam on the Helmand River in Nimroz Province into the Hamun Lake. While their sectarian differences once made them enemies, their common interests in opposing Afghanistan's Western-backed government and U.S.-led forces in Afghanistan over the past two decades brought them closer. Since the Taliban returned to power, the militant group has sought to build economic and security ties with Tehran. While Iran has not recognized the Taliban-led government, it has sought to work with the group on the issues of Afghan refugees in Iran and cross-border drug trafficking. In February, Iran formally handed over the Afghan Embassy in Tehran to the Taliban. Afghanistan's and Iran's water crises require both countries to show a strong hand on the issue of water supplies, both for domestic consumption and to protect their national interests. But experts suggest the benefits of cooperation outweigh an escalation of the conflict. "Neither country at this point in time needs a really hostile border," Marvin Weinbaum, director of Afghanistan and Pakistan studies at the Middle East Institute think tank in Washington, told RFE/RL. "Economically it is an issue for both countries -- there would be no agricultural potential in Helmand Province without the water furnished by the dam. And very little of it gets into Iran. And southeast Iran is as dry as any place on the planet." Weinbaum said neither the Taliban nor Tehran is going to exhibit weakness on the issue of short-term water shortages. "As the climate heats up, this is only going to grow more acute," he said. But for both countries, Weinbaum said, "economic ties are really what matters the most," along with cooperating on other issues of mutual concern such as preventing the Islamic State extremist group from expanding its foothold in the region. Ironically, just days after Raisi's threats and the inauguration of a new dam project in Afghanistan, the Taliban's Defense Ministry announced it had reached a new agreement on cooperating with Iran on defense and border issues. And on the day of the firefight that left border guards dead on both sides, officials had met earlier to discuss the water dispute. After the deadly incident, Iranian and Taliban officials held another meeting to investigate the cause of the "tensions." Path To Resolution The construction of dams -- which both Iran and Afghanistan engage heavily in -- and their downstream impact stand out among the causes to discuss. "What really triggers these disputes?" asked Weinbaum. "The intensification of them is obviously building dams, which represent simply a lower flow than they've been accustomed to and are not happy with." Other observers suggest the decades-old water-sharing agreement that Iran and the Taliban accuse each other of failing to adhere to holds the answer to resolving the dispute. The 1973 treaty does allow for the delivery of water from the Afghan side to be lower than the agreed-upon levels under certain circumstances, which would appear to include the drought and climate change that the Taliban has said have limited water supplies. It also commits the two countries to follow a set course "in the event that a difference should develop in the interpretation" of the provisions set out in the treaty: diplomatic negotiations, turning to the "good offices" of a third party to help mediate a solution, and in the event neither step works, arbitration. With additional reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Farda and Radio Azadi As ethnic trouble brewed and the latest confrontations erupted this week in northern Kosovo, a powerful symbol of Russian expansionism emerged alongside the Serbian flags denoting resistance to Pristina's authority. RFE/RL's Balkan Service and other media shared images of the "Z," which was used by Russian forces invading Ukraine, painted or otherwise scrawled on Kosovo police and NATO peacekeepers' vehicles. Some even caught a group of masked men in the act of spray-painting it on the armored blue trucks of Kosovar special police units in Zvecan, the scene of the worst violence on May 29. More than 30 NATO peacekeepers were injured there in what its KFOR mission called "unprovoked attacks," and dozens more ethnic Serb protesters were hurt. The unrest was sparked by the Kosovar authorities' insistence on forcibly seating ethnic Albanian mayors in predominantly Serb northern Kosovo after boycotted elections and despite Western urgings to avoid escalating tensions. Northern Kosovo is a locus of ethno-nationalist unrest in the Balkans and, outside of Ukraine itself, one of Europe's most dangerous flash points, pitting Western-oriented political forces against pro-Russian counterparts. In the days since the violence, official Belgrade and Kosovar Serb representatives have remained silent over some of the protesters' embrace of the "Z" symbol, a clear middle finger to Pristina and the West for its support of Kosovar independence and a possible show of solidarity with Serbia's traditional ally Russia. Neither the region's dominant Serbian political party, the Belgrade-backed Serbian List, nor Serbia's office for relations with Kosovo responded to RFE/RL queries about the symbol's appearance in the northern Kosovo hot spots. And no one else has come forward to explain how it might help the Serb cause. But given Serbs' and ethnic Albanians' ongoing failure to overcome the Serbian-Kosovar dispute -- and Moscow's diplomatic backing for Belgrade's refusal to recognize Kosovo despite EU and U.S. prodding -- analysts in the region have some guesses. 'Politically Motivated Performance Art' The say it could seek to imbue minority Serbs with the "optics of identifying with a larger power" to boost their collective confidence, undermine the legitimacy of the Serbia-Kosovo dispute while "supporting aggressive actions" to resist Kosovar authority, and undermine Serbian willingness to cooperate with perceived Kosovo allies in the West. "Visual identification with a larger power like Russia is a symbolic way to build self-confidence and encourage the suggestion that this population [minority Serbs] is an important part of a larger geopolitical mosaic," Artan Muhaxhiri, a political analyst and professor of sociology at the University of Pristina, said. But he also warned that such activities can prove ineffective and thus come off looking more like "politically motivated performance art." Naim Leo Beshiri, executive director of the Institute for European Affairs in Belgrade, said Russian aggression against Ukraine "has already caused great suffering and destabilized the region." The appearance of the "Z" in northern Kosovo comes with Serbia and Kosovo reportedly in what could be the final phases of Western-mediated talks toward normalization between the Balkan neighbors, following oral commitments in March, he said. Kosovar Prime Minister Albin Kurti in January requested an increase in the number of NATO troops in his country, citing a purported strengthening of cooperation between Russia and Serbia, which Pristina says poses a threat to Kosovar security. "It's clear that, above all, the pro-Russian elements in Serbia and the north of Kosovo want to destabilize everything that has been agreed so far," Beshiri said. The giant "Z" first came to international attention daubed in white across Russian military vehicles in the early weeks and months of the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine that began in February 2022. But, as Ukraine's outnumbered defenses held and an unprecedented international response further dashed Kremlin planners' hopes of a quick victory, the "Z" came to symbolize support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his military gamble. The "Zwastika," as its detractors dubbed it, appeared all over pro-Kremlin social and other media, and has been flashed at major sporting and other international events despite bans. It also made its way into the discourse of the Serbian far right, which has traditionally espoused revanchist, Orthodox, and pan-Slavic ideals. 'An Unacceptable Act' Within weeks of the invasion, pro-Russian right-wingers in Belgrade were using the "Z" in their demonstrations to pressure nationalist-populist President Aleksandar Vucic to keep Serbia out of EU and other Western sanctions regimes punishing Russia for its war on Ukraine. A March 2022 demonstration in Belgrade organized by the People's Patrol group featured dozens of vehicles marked with a "Z" and flying Serbian and Russian flags. Many of those same groups are staunch supporters of Putin's war in Ukraine and vocal opponents of normalized relations between Belgrade and Pristina. A notorious Serbian ultranationalist was among the visitors last year to the newly opened headquarters in St. Petersburg of the Wagner group, whose mercenaries fight alongside regular Russian army troops in Ukraine. Also last year, Wagner opened a "friendship and cooperation center" in Serbia's capital. Images of the appearance of the "Z" symbol in northern Kosovo were subsequently shared by a handful of Balkan-focused, pro-Russian, or pro-war accounts on social media. They included Telegram pages such as "Rusija u srcu" (Russia Close To My Heart), "Zli orlovi" (Evil Eagles), "Evroazija" (Eurasia), and "Bunt je stanje duha" (Rebellion Is A State Of Mind). Russia's English-language international media arm, RT, also noted the arrival of the "Z." In comments after the violence in Zvecan on May 29, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov drew a parallel between international recognition of Kosovo and Crimea, which was occupied and annexed in 2014 to start the earlier phase of Moscow's war on Ukraine. Analyst Muhaxhiri suggested to RFE/RL's Balkan Service that Moscow "needs" a complicated situation in Kosovo in order to "maintain its hopes" that it will be at the table once a "historic final agreement" to normalize relations is reached between Kosovo and Serbia. Beshiri from the Institute for European Affairs had a blunter -- and potentially worrying -- explanation. "That action represents an unacceptable act of supporting aggressive behavior," he said. Written by Andy Heil based on reporting by Mila Djurdjevic of RFE/RL's Balkan Service Ethnic Serbs unfurled a large Serbian flag during a protest on May 31 in the town of Zvecan in northern Kosovo, where violent clashes earlier in the week reportedly left some 30 NATO peacekeepers with injuries. In response to the unrest, NATO said it would send 700 additional soldiers to Kosovo and place another battalion on high alert. On the ground in Zvecan, members of the NATO-led KFOR protection force were seen putting up razor-wire barricades to further secure the area. European Union officials met on May 31 with Kosovar Prime Minister Albin Kurti in Bratislava as part of international efforts to end a crisis in Kosovo that for days has drawn ethnic-Serb demonstrators into the streets of northern towns in the former province of Serbia. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell met Kurti on the sidelines of a security conference in Bratislava to discuss the tensions. "The current situation is dangerous and unsustainable," Borrell said on Twitter. "We need urgent de-escalation and a solution through the Dialogue to return to our work on implementing the Agreement reached." Kurti, who was also to meet with Miroslav Lajcak, the EU envoy for the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, has rejected a demand by the protesters in ethnic Serb-majority northern Kosovo to remove ethnic Albanian mayors whose forced entrance into municipal buildings in three towns in the region triggered a standoff after violent clashes with Kosovar police and KFOR troops. Ethnic Serb demonstrators gathered again on May 31 in Zubin Potok and Zvecan after clashes two days earlier in Zvecan and a vow from the largest Kosovar Serbian party to continue protests over the presence of the mayors, who were recently elected in a vote boycotted by ethnic Serbs. The Belgrade-backed Serbian List (Srpska Lista) said the protests will stop only when their demands for the removal of Kosovar Albanian mayors and the withdrawal of special police units from the north are met. Amid the presence of Kosovo police and KFOR troops, who have installed barbed-wire barricades around municipal buildings to keep protesters at bay, the situation in Zvecan, Leposaviq, and Zubin Potok was calm on May 31. NATO announced the day before plans to deploy 700 more troops to Kosovo to help stop the violent protests, and the leaders of France and Germany announced plans to meet top Serbia and Kosovo officials on June 1 at a summit in Moldova. Despite appeals by the United States and the European Union to return to dialogue, Kurti has insisted that the ethnic Albanian mayors have the legal right to take over municipal buildings in the towns where they were elected. Mayors of the three towns were sworn in despite a turnout of under 3.5 percent in the April 23 by-elections amid the Serb boycott. WATCH: Ethnic Serbs unfurled a massive Serbian flag during a protest on May 31 in the town of Zvecan in northern Kosovo, where violent clashes earlier in the week reportedly left some 30 NATO peacekeepers with injuries. The United States has proposed allowing the mayors to work from locations other than the municipal buildings, but Kurti told RFE/RL in a brief interview in Bratislava before his meetings with the European leaders that such an order would be regarded as proof of a parallel structure being created within Kosovo. "What I am doing is my duty. There are parallel structures in the northern part of our country. If I would now order mayors to leave that office to another office somewhere elsewhere, it would be as if I am engaging in creating sort of a parallel structure to parallel structures, copying [Kosovo's Serb leaders] method. I would join their illegality. I cannot do that," he said, referring to Serbian structures that have been operating in the north of Kosovo since the 1998-99 war that led to Kosovo declaring independence from Serbia in 2008. Kurti made the comments after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called on both Kosovo and Serbia to return to the European Union-mediate dialogue on the normalization of relations. Blinken reiterated that the Kosovar government's decision to forcefully install the mayors had escalated tensions "sharply and unnecessarily." Kurti and his government "should ensure that elected mayors perform their interim duties from alternative locations, outside municipal buildings, and withdraw police forces from there," Blinken said in a statement. Blinken also said Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and the Serbian government "should downgrade the security status of the Serbian Armed Forces and call on the Kosovo Serbs to stop defying KFOR and refrain from further violence." U.S. Ambassador to Kosovo Jeffrey Hovenier said the decision of Kosovar authorities to forcibly install Albanian mayors led NATO to cancel Kosovo's participation in the alliance's largest military exercises in the Balkans. The NATO exercises began in Kosovo on May 21 and were set to last until June 2. Kurti decried the move as "unfortunate and unfair" in a statement to RFE/RL but reiterated that Washington remans an indispensable ally for Kosovo. With reporting by RFE/RL's Rikard Jozwiak in Bratislava, AFP, Reuters, dpa, and AP A Paris Air Show tragedy 50 years ago marked the beginning of the end for supersonic travel. As aircraft roared overhead during the Paris Air Show on June 3, 1973, 12-year-old Marianne was playing with dolls alongside her cousin and sister in the town of Goussainville. At 3:39 that afternoon a Soviet Tu-144 supersonic passenger jet nose-dived above the children and then broke apart. "I saw absolutely everything," Marianne later recounted to a French journalist, I watched the plane diving down, spinning, exploding into flames and falling on the school and the houses. The girls sister, Martine, was killed in front of Marianne by falling debris, while their cousin suffered serious injuries. Along with 11-year-old Martine, seven other people in the town were killed in the fiery crash and all eight crew aboard the Soviet jet also died. The tragedy took place in front of more than 250,000 spectators who had gathered to watch flights by both the Tu-144 and Concorde, the worlds only other supersonic passenger jet. From the 1950s, supersonic transport (SST) was widely seen as the next frontier for airline travel. Britain and France jointly began development of the technology in the 1960s, followed by the United States, which feared its dominance in jet airliner manufacturing could be lost if SST was adopted widely. The U.S.-government-funded SST project was eventually canceled, partly as a result of monthslong "boom tests" above Oklahoma in 1964 that highlighted the nerve-rattling, window-shattering side effect of supersonic overflights. In the Soviet Union, with the space race ongoing, the quest for a hyper-fast passenger jet was seen as a new opportunity to potentially demonstrate technical supremacy over the West, and a way to effectively shrink the vast expanse of the U.S.S.R. With the development of the Franco-British Concorde project already under way, the Soviet leadership in the early 1960s approved their own plan to create the first supersonic airliner. The Kremlin decreed that the first jet should be airborne by 1968. Both the Soviet Union and Western countries had military supersonic jets in use, but the technical difficulties of creating a plane that flew faster than a rifle bullet, yet was comfortable and safe enough for regular passenger use, were immense. Valery Benderov, the son of the lead flight engineer aboard the doomed Tu-144, told a Russian journalist, to speak plainly, the aircraft was created at an accelerated pace. He added that, in 1965 the first plans appeared. The plane took off three years later. Three years is a very short time for such a machine. When the supersonic airliner set off for the 1973 Paris Air Show, Olga Benderov, the daughter of its doomed flight engineer Vladimir Benderov recalled, he knew that the plane was not finished properly, it was still 'raw'. My father said to my half-brother Valera Take care of Olga, he'd never said that before a business trip. A cause for the 1973 crash has never been confirmed. One theory is that a French Mirage jet flew too close to the Tupolev, which evaded the smaller aircraft and lost control. One French eyewitness confirmed that the doomed Tupolev was accompanied by a small Mirage which left toward the city when the Tupolev 144 stalled. Other experts put the crash down to the aggressive maneuvering of the aircraft that exceeded allowable stress limits. Despite the 1973 crash, two years later the Tu-144 entered service carrying mail between Moscow and Alma-Ata (now Almaty) in Soviet Kazakhstan. By November 1977, it was carrying passengers along the same route, which was chosen for its sparsely populated flight path. The flight time was two hours, less than half the time of other passenger jets but journalists aboard noted during the flight the cabin is noisy. One can have a conversation only with difficulty. In 2018, the Russian-backed forces controlling part of Ukraines Donetsk region sentenced Valeriy Matyushenko to 10 years in prison for espionage after holding him in detention for 10 months and conducting what they called a trial. In the years before Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Matyushenko was allowed to make two local telephone calls of up to two minutes each per week. It was only a couple of minutes, but at least we heard from him, his wife, Tetyana Matyushenko, who lives in government-controlled territory, told RFE/RL. I had a friend there who would call Valeriy locally and then connect to me on Messenger so that we could speak directly a little. But now they have taken that away. Since Moscow launched its massive attack in February 2022, Matyushenkos jailers have canceled such telephone calls. In six years, my husband has not been visited by the Red Cross even once, Tetyana added, no matter how many times I have asked. We have to do everything ourselves. Matyushenko is one of more than 200 Ukrainian civilians who have been held for years in jails and prisons in the Donbas, where war broke out in 2014 between Ukraine and Russian-backed forces who had seized parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Their conditions behind bars have worsened since the invasion last year. Although Russia and Ukraine have exchanged thousands of military prisoners over the last year, imprisoned civilians have gotten little attention. Moscow refuses to discuss them and often does not even confirm basic information about their condition or whereabouts. At the same time, the families of the prisoners say the Ukrainian government is not doing enough to force the issue. They arent fighting for our relatives the way wed like them to, Tetyana said. I think that, if the Ukrainian government really wanted it, then our loved ones would be free. They keep telling us there is no mechanism for releasing civilians. 30 Kilos Less Matyushenko is being held in correctional facility No. 32 in the Donetsk region city of Makiyivka, not far from the front line. It has been hit by shells several times since the February 2022 invasion. His wife fears that he may have cancer, but has not been able to secure the medical treatment he needs to confirm a diagnosis. In 2019, through acquaintances, we were able to arrange an ultrasound to check his organs, she recalled. A disease of the thyroid gland was discovered. Now we are trying to arrange a blood test, but they wont let Valeriy go anywhere. I need to find a person in Makiyivka who will go to a laboratory and get the sample kit and then arrange with the prison to take the sample first thing in the morning and then take the samples to the laboratory before 10 a.m., Tetyana said. Organizing all that in a place that is being shelled is quite difficult. Since the Russian invasion, the separatists have only allowed prisoners to receive one 20-kilogram parcel every three months. The last time we were able to send him food was on April 17, Tetyana said. But what is 20 kilograms of food over three months when they are hardly fed there at all? My husband now weighs 50 kilograms. In pretrial detention, he was 78 kilos. Now he weighs nearly 30 kilos less. 'I Have No One Else' Olena Pekh, a cultural researcher and museum guide from Horlivka in the Donetsk region, was handed a 13-year prison sentence in 2019 for allegedly recruiting people to work for Kyiv. She is being held in prison No. 127 in the Donetsk region city of Snizhne. Her daughter, Isabella Pekh, told RFE/RL that her mother was abused and tortured in pretrial detention, including with electric shocks, which gave her seizures. Isabella fears her mother was exposed to tuberculosis. She has seizures, Isabella said. She has a strong cough that never stops. She loses consciousness often. Unless she gets medical attention, I will lose my mother. She is my only relative -- I have no one else. Mom is holding on, she added. She is a fighter. A hero. One of those people who say -- Dont worry about me. Ill be fine. But I know how hard it is for her. Isabella said she hasnt seen her mother since her abduction. Although earlier they spoke by telephone occasionally, the phone calls have now been stopped. Parcels are limited to 20 kilograms every three months, she added. But that is nothing at all. It is impossible to eat the food there. There are worms in the food. Isabella also urges the Ukrainian authorities to do more to secure the release of people like her mother. I believe that the priority now is people Russia has detained since February 24, 2022, she said. Those people have a chance, unlike our relatives. But imagine how strong their faith in Ukraine must be, she added. After so much time and after enduring so much torture, knowing every day could be their last, they still believe they will be freed. They still believe in Ukraine. My fight for my mother continues, she said. But I always meet indifference. No one hears us. 'I'm Holding On' Bohdan Kovalchuk was 17 years old when Russian-backed separatists abducted him in 2016. He was illegally sentenced to 15 years in prison for allegedly blowing up cars used by the anti-Kyiv fighters. In 2019, he was offered a pardon on the condition of confessing, expressing repentance, and pledging not to leave separatist-controlled areas. He refused and is serving his time in a prison in the Donetsk region city of Chystyakove. I have not communicated with my grandson since 2019, said Tetyana Vots. Over all this time, I saw him only once. My daughter has seen him three times, two of them through glass. He tells me, Grandma, everything is fine. Dont worry. Ill be fine, she added. He doesnt want to upset me, so he is holding back. As her grandson approaches the seventh anniversary of his abduction, Tetyana struggles to remain hopeful. Unfortunately, the Ukrainian authorities do not communicate with me, she told RFE/RL. They do not tell me what I can expect. Im holding on, she added. I know that I just have to fight for him and wait. Tetyana Matyushenko, who suspects her imprisoned husband has cancer, expressed similar frustration. Im tired of being told to be patient, she said. Im tired of waiting. At the age of 38, I was left alone with my infant son in my arms, she said. My mother is sick. My father has died. I havent seen my husband in six years. I have the right to happiness. My husband has the right to be free. Adapted by RFE/RLs Robert Coalson based on reporting by correspondent Olha Modina of RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service. The United States on May 31 announced an aid package for Ukraine that includes Patriot air-defense batteries, ammunition, and other defense equipment as Ukrainian authorities said attacks by Russian troops killed one person in Ukraine's Donetsk region and one person in the Kherson region. The security assistance package worth up to $300 million was announced by White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby. It represents the 39th drawdown of equipment from the Defense Department inventories, the Pentagon said. Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's full-scale invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensives, Western military aid, global reaction, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war in Ukraine, click here. In addition to the Patriots, the package includes Stinger antiaircraft systems, missiles for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), tank ammunition, and other equipment. Indiscriminate Russian shelling earlier on May 31 killed one person and wounded one in Chasiv Yar near Horlivka, Donetsk regional Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said, adding that another 10 civilians were wounded across the region. Russian troops also attacked a community in the Kherson region, killing one person, said Oleksandr Prokudin, head of the regional military administration. The reports could not be independently verified. Ukrainian forces repelled 22 Russian attacks in the east, the General Staff said in its daily update, although the intensity of Moscow's offensive in and around the Donetsk city of Bakhmut appeared to have subsided, according to Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar. Malyar said that in Bakhmut, which has been the epicenter of the monthslong war in the east, Russian troops have not been conducting infantry operations, apparently regrouping their forces, but have been continuing shelling and launching air strikes on Ukrainian positions. Valeriy Zaluzhniy, commander in chief of Ukrainian forces, said he spoke by phone with U.S. Army General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to discuss the situation at the front, further plans for the liberation of Ukrainian territory, and the possible actions of the enemy. Zaluzhniy said on Telegram on May 31 that he and Milley discussed weapons supply, including ammunition, and the need for long-range projectiles. They also discussed the importance of working to strengthening Ukraine's air defense and F-16 fighter jets, he said, adding that they agreed to continue the dialogue. Early on May 31, the governor of Russia's Krasnodar region, Venyamin Kondratyev, said an alleged drone attack caused a fire at an oil refinery. There were no casualties in the attack, part of an uptick in attacks on Russian territory. WATCH: Amid a new wave of Russian drone attacks on Ukraine, analysts in Kyiv are gaining useful intelligence from a collection of downed Russian aerial weapons. Russia on May 30 launched a fresh wave of drone strikes on Kyiv -- the fourth attack in three days -- killing at least one person and wounding several others, but Ukrainian authorities said most of the drones were shot down by the capital's air defenses. Late on May 30 the governor of Russia's Belgorod region said one person was killed and six were wounded in shelling of a temporary shelter for civilians. Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov blamed Ukrainian armed forces for artillery fire that hit the shelter, which he said housed displaced people, including elderly civilians and children. On the same day, Moscow was subjected to a rare drone attack that damaged several buildings. The Russian Defense Ministry said eight drones were shot down or jammed over the Russian capital in what it said was a "terrorist attack" by the "Kyiv regime." Russia's Investigative Committee said no one was wounded. Ukrainian denied any involvement, and White House national security spokesman John Kirby said on May 31 that the Biden administration does not know who is responsible for the attack. He added that the United States does not tell Ukraine where to strike. Moscow-installed authorities in Ukraine's Luhansk region, which is almost completely occupied by Russia, said on May 31 that five people were killed and 19 wounded by Ukrainian shelling that hit a poultry farm in the village of Karpaty. The information could not be independently confirmed, and there was no immediate reaction from Ukraine. Both sides say they are targeting the buildup of military equipment and troops ahead of an expected Ukrainian counteroffensive. With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and AP UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi has urged Ukraine and Russia to adhere to five principles to prevent nuclear catastrophe at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant. Grossi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), on May 30 outlined the principles to the UN Security Council in New York during a briefing on safety at the plant, which has been a concern since Russian forces seized it shortly after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. "The nuclear safety and security situation at the Zaporizhzhya NPP...continues to be extremely fragile and dangerous. Military activities continue in the region and may well increase very considerably in the near future," he said in an apparent reference to Ukraine's expected counteroffensive. Grossi told the Security Council that "there should be no attack of any kind from or against the plant" and said that it should not be used as storage or a base for heavy weapons such as multiple rocket launchers, artillery systems and munitions, and tanks, or for military personnel that could be used for an attack from the plant. He also called for off-site power to the plant to remain available and secure, for all its essential systems to be protected from attacks or acts of sabotage, and for no action to be taken that undermines the principles. "I respectfully and solemnly ask both sides to observe these five principles," said Grossi. "These principles are to no one's detriment and to everyone's benefit." The IAEA intends to start monitoring the principles on-site, he added. Russia said it would do all it could to protect the power plant, it did not explicitly commit to abide by Grossi's five principles. "Mr. Grossi's proposals to ensure the security of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant are in line with the measures that we've already been implementing for a long time," Russian Ambassador to the UN Vasily Nebenzya said. Ukrainian Ambassador to the UN Serhiy Kyslytsya said the principles "must be complemented with the demand of full demilitarization and de-occupation of the station," a demand previously made by the United States. In response to Grossi's statement, U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said, "It is entirely, entirely within Moscow's control to avert a nuclear catastrophe and to end its war of aggression against Ukraine." Grossi has been trying for months to establish an agreement to reduce the risk of a nuclear accident caused by military activity at Europe's biggest nuclear power plant. The plant, which is not generating electricity, has been affected multiple times by shelling that has caused outages of electrical power, which the plant needs to maintain the cooling of its reactors. The plant, located in the southeastern region of Zaporizhzhya, supplied around 20 percent of Ukraine's electricity before power production was halted late last year. With reporting by AFP and Reuters Ebrahim K Kanoo (EKK) recently opened its doors to 90 students from the Bahrain Polytechnic. The visit provided an opportunity for the students to gain first-hand insights into EKK's operations and fostered a spirit of collaboration between the two institutions. As part of the visit, the students were given a comprehensive walkthrough of the state-of-the-art facilities, starting at EKK's Training Centre and concluding at The Plaza, one of the largest and most comprehensive service centres for Toyota in the region. The students listened to inspiring talks, participated in fun activities, and heard insights on development programmes for fresh graduates facilitated by the Graduate Recruitment & Development programme Tomooh. A key activity of the day was the Q&A session to support the students with their academic projects. Sharing knowledge Dr John Mathew, Head of Talent Management at EKK said: We believe in fostering a collaborative environment that nurtures the next generation of professionals. Engaging with Bahrain Polytechnic as part of our MoU, allows us to share our knowledge and expertise while also learning from their fresh perspectives. We are proud to contribute to their growth and development." In line with EKKs belief in the significance of nurturing talent and promoting educational partnerships, the company is currently engaged in a special project for four students from Bahrain Polytechnic, designed to provide them with practical experience and equip them with the necessary skills for a successful transition into the professional world.-- TradeArabia News Service Russias MegaFon has issued a legal challenge against sanctions placed upon it by the European Union. The operator filed an action against the European Council (EC) last month, as confirmed by the Official Journal of the European Union which provides updates on new regulation and legal cases taken out against EU authorities. In February 2023, MegaFon was added to a list of Russian individuals and entities subject to sanctions and other restrictions as part of the EUs continuing response to Russias invasion of Ukraine. The operator has called on the EU General Court to drop these restrictions, arguing that the EC failed to provide it with advance notice of the sanctions and claiming that it was denied the opportunity to submit observations in its defence, as per its legal rights. MegaFon maintains that the sanctions are unlawful, and claims that it has not been given a reason for their imposition. MegaFon has stated its intent to challenge the sanctions placed on it by both the EU and the US, as reported by Russian state media outlet TASS. At the time of their imposition, the operator claimed that the sanctions would not affect most of its telecom services. The John Coffee Chapter No. 3033 National Society Daughters of the American Revolution which began May 30, 1963, recently celebrated its 60th anniversary. Eunora Farris was the organizing regent and served as its first regent. Nancy Elizabeth Cowart Brunson was one of the 24 organizing members, a charter member of the original chapter and is still an active member today. She was recognized at the anniversary meeting and presented with a certificate of appreciation signed by the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution President General Pamela Rouse Wright for her 60 years of dedicated and faithful service; a wrist corsage of red, white and blue flowers; a banner recognizing her for being a charter member; and a gift from the outgoing Regent Jacque Hawkins. A very informative power-point presentation was prepared by Amanda Skinner and narrated by the Chapters Historian Nell Gilmer, including many pictures of happenings over the organizations 60-year period. The Alabama Society DAR Regent Patrice Donnelly was a special guest, driving from Birmingham to attend the 10 a.m. meeting. She was presented with a basket of mementos, donated by Hawkins, from many of the shops in downtown Enterprise. Donnelly conducted an installation ceremony for the officers of the John Coffee Chapter who will be serving from June 1 of this year until June 1, 2025. Donnelly presented two red roses to Hawkins and thanked her for her service to the John Coffee Chapter. Donnelly presented a red rose to each of the new officers and installed them in their respective offices. Hawkins presented gifts to her officers in appreciation of their assistance during her two-year term of office as regent. Hawkins final act was to present the gavel to Regent Betty Ann Stinson, who gave welcoming remarks and adjourned the meeting. An outgoing gift was presented to Hawkins. A cake donated by Jacque Hawkins and punch provided by Betty Ann Stinson was enjoyed by all. The next meeting will be Aug. 23 with the location to be announced. Those interested in becoming a member of DAR, are asked to contact Registrar Shirley Skinner at shirley_skinner @hotmail.com or (334)301-6063. At the presentation on May 23 in Moscow, the management of Norilsk Nickel presented the main results in the field of sustainable development for 2022, which were discussed by representatives of the company's regions of presence, the scientific and expert community, as well as by Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief of the African Bureau, Rough&Polished. Vladimir Zhukov, Vice-President of Norilsk Nickel for Investor Relations and Sustainable Development, noted in his speech that the company operates in new geopolitical conditions, which significantly complicates the promotion of a sustainable development strategy. "In addition to the traditional challenges associated with the volatility of our basket of metals and the volatility of exchange rates, a number of new serious challenges have arisen. This is related to our sales activities and logistics," he said. According to Zhukov, the share of sales of Norilsk Nickel to Europe in January - March 2023 amounted to 24%, to North and South America - 17%. At the same time, the share of sales to Asia reached 45% during the reporting period, and to Russia and the CIS - 13%. By the end of 2022, Europe accounted for 47% of Norilsk Nickel's sales against 53% a year earlier, Asia - 31% against 27%. Another 15% accounted for North and South America (the indicator did not change in relation to 2021), Russia and the CIS - 8% compared to 4% a year earlier. "Our traditional markets - the markets of Europe and North and South America - continue to play a big role, but their importance is declining. Over the past year or so, we have noticeably reoriented our sales to Asian markets. The largest for us is China. Sales in the domestic market have also increased," commented the Vice President of Norilsk Nickel. The head of the company, Vladimir Potanin, stated earlier that Norilsk Nickel will struggle to maintain its positions in traditional markets and expects to return to them after the end of the period of instability. Speaking about Norilsk Nickel's investment program, Zhukov said that in 2012-2020, the company's average capital investments amounted to about $1.7 billion per year, and in 2022 this amount was more than doubled to $4.3 billion. For the current year, the goal is to invest about $4.7 billion, which is a record level of capital investment for the company. Coincidentally, against the background of these external challenges, Zhukov noted, Norilsk Nickel is at the peak of its investment program, and one of its key elements is the flagship environmental project. And this is despite the fact that the company's costs for sustainable development increased significantly last year. "From the point of view of the operating room, last year we fulfilled all our promises. The production of all metals was in accordance with the plan. For this year, we set the task, in principle, also to achieve our plans. A slight decrease in production, which is planned in nickel, is due to the repair of one of our furnaces, which we have planned for a long time. In principle, we plan to maintain, despite all these difficult new circumstances, the production of metals at a high unchanged level," said the Vice president of Norilsk Nickel. According to him, despite the pressure that the financial model of Norilsk Nickel is experiencing, the company confirms the priority of the movement on the sustainable development agenda, although it is "a very expensive pleasure." In turn, Anton Berlin, Vice President and head of the sales and Commerce unit of the company, informed that domestic demand for Norilsk Nickel, palladium, platinum and copper products has reached the highest levels in the last 20 years, sales in Russia will continue to grow. Berlin expects that domestic demand for the company's products in Russia will continue to grow. "If earlier we assumed that we are a raw country and can import everything, then the new reality shows that it is desirable to have the production of a lot of things inside the country," he said. Stanislav Seleznev, Vice President of Norilsk Nickel for Ecology and Industrial Safety, in turn, said that within the framework of the Clean Air project, the company will launch the first automatic emission control system at the Copper plant in Norilsk this summer. "Then we have plans to install five complexes at the Nadezhdinsky Metallurgical Plant, and we will continue to replicate," Seleznev said. At the same time, the installation of one such complex produced in Russia on a factory pipe costs "several tens of millions". Seleznev also said that in September 2023 Norilsk Nickel will launch an air quality control system in Norilsk and Monchegorsk. A mobile application will be created, thanks to which every resident will be able to see the result of her work. Speaking at the presentation, the Mayor of Norilsk Dmitry Karasev spoke about the joint work of Norilsk Nickel and the city administration. The city is changing for the better, becoming more attractive to tourists. The number of tourists in Norilsk has exceeded 10 thousand people in just a year. According to Karasev, it was possible to achieve such an indicator thanks to joint work with the Norilsk Development Agency for the development of tourist destinations and other areas of the city's activities. In particular, a new tourism cluster "Arctic" is currently being built in Norilsk. Karasev stressed that "by developing eco-tourism, the company is also open to the development of industrial tourism, allowing tourists to visit their tourist sites, production facilities, and introduce them to completely new modern technologies." In addition, Norilsk Nickel participates in the implementation of other social projects, such as the design of the Arctic Museum of Modern Art on the territory of the city of Norilsk, the construction of a new ice arena and a swimming pool objects so in demand by residents. According to the head of the city, the company's contribution to education also makes the city more attractive to young people. The construction of a new modern innovative Lyceum named after V. I. Dolgikh, which will work in conjunction with the Polar State University, will provide a new level of education in Norilsk. Norilsk Nickel has also committed itself to the construction of a new campus for teachers and students, the mayor of Norilsk said. In his speech during the presentation of the results achieved by Norilsk Nickel in the field of sustainable development, Vasily Sergeevich Zakharov, Chief Manager of Federal and Regional Programs, noted that the company recognizes the principle of Free Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) of indigenous peoples and that this principle is spelled out in its policy and Nornickel puts it into practice. "We became the first company in Russia to receive FPIC for the resettlement of the village of Tukhard in the Arctic. Now about 700 people permanently live there, mostly belonging to the indigenous people of the Nenets," he said, noting that when clarifying the sanitary protection zones, it turned out that living in this territory was unsafe from the point of view of Russian legislation. It took about five months to conduct these negotiations with the population, he said further, saying that "at the same time, leading international experts were invited so that, on the one hand, they fixed that our process and how we organize FPIC complies with all international requirements, and on the other hand, that they advise indigenous peoples in that part of their rights and opportunities that this procedure gives them." According to Vasily Zakharov, Norilsk Nickel confirmed its adherence to the FPIC procedure and principle also on the example of the Kolmozerskoye lithium deposit in the Murmansk region. Aleksey Tsykarev, Deputy Chairman of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, noted that the principle of Free, Prior and Informed Consent is an important international principle, which is reflected in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and other international standards. "Recently, the 22nd session of the Permanent Forum took place at the UN Headquarters in New York, where the participants discussed, among other things, the interaction between business and indigenous peoples, and they talked about the fact that companies should stop considering indigenous peoples as stakeholders and instead recognize that they have collective rights and treat them as rights holders," he said. It is gratifying that Norilsk Nickel takes into account these recommendations that are heard on international platforms, and FPIC is indeed becoming part of the company's corporate culture, Tsykarev emphasized. Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Doctor of Biology, Professor Mikhail Gladyshev, who took part in the discussion of the results of Norilsk Nickel's work in the field of sustainable development, noted that the company's interests are not aimed at extracting momentary benefits, but at truly sustainable environmentally friendly management. "Such nature management requires fundamental scientific knowledge and advanced scientific research. And the organization of a large scientific expedition to study biodiversity, unprecedented in its geographic scale and complexity, and the company's appeal to the country's highest scientific authority, that is, directly to the Academy of Sciences, just demonstrates the seriousness of intentions," he stressed. Mikhail Gladyshev also urged to pay attention to the fact that the company attaches great importance to the elimination of accumulated harm since the 1950s. In his opinion, without the restoration of both the soil cover and lakes, flora and fauna, one cannot speak of any kind of sustainable development. "Here all these elements are present, and they are present just on a good scientific basis, so the interaction between the real sector of the economy represented by the company and fundamental science represented by the Russian Academy of Sciences, in my opinion, will give a completely positive and sustainable effect," Professor Gladyshev said. Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief of the African Bureau Alex Shishlo for Rough&Polished Ludhiana Court Complex Bomb Blast Case Lakhbir Singh Rode hails from Moga and is a terrorist hiding in Pakistan: Report AMRITSAR: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a supplementary charge sheet against two accused in the Ludhiana court complex bomb blast case. One of these two persons is Lakhbir Singh Rode who hails from Moga and is a terrorist hiding in Pakistan. The second is Harpreet Singh alias Happy Malaysia, a resident of Amritsar, who was arrested at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in December 2022. On 23 December 2021, an explosion took place inside the court complex of Ludhiana, in which about six people were injured, while one person who planted the bomb died. In the chargesheet, Lakhbir Rode has been accused of smuggling IEDs across the border to detonate bombs in Punjab while sitting in Pakistan. He heads banned organizations Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) and International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF). Advertisement It is worth mentioning here that Harpreet Singh aka Happy Malaysia is accused of delivering the consignment to India through drones with the help of Pakistani smugglers. Even in India, Happy took the help of his colleagues and Pakistani smugglers. Notably, In a chargesheet filed by the NIA in a special court in Mohali, Punjab, the two were charged under various sections of the Explosive Substances Act and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984. No Tobacco Major Initiative taken by the Health Department CHANDIGARH: A Report of the World Health Organization (WHO) states that, more than 10 million deaths occur every year due to tobacco use in India. 12% of the world's smokers live in India. Amidst the crises, as a Ray of Hope, there is a good news from Punjab, as the state will soon become tobacco free. On the special occasion of World No Tobacco Day, in Punjab, from May 31 to July 31, in two months, more than 13,000 villages under panchayats will take a pledge not to consume tobacco. Those who consume and sell tobacco will be fined. 739 villages of the state have become tobacco free. The theme-'We want food, not tobacco', will resonate across the state. Advertisement According to NFHS-5 data (2020-21), the prevalence of tobacco use in Punjab has declined from 19.2% to 12.9% in 5 years, which is the lowest among all states in the country. Notably, Tobacco is deadly in any shape or form. Scientific evidence has clearly established that exposure to tobacco smoke causes death, disease and disability. Nicotine is a harmful chemical. Due to this, blood pressure may increase along with many other diseases. Smoking can also cause cancer of the blood, bladder, cervix, lung, liver, kidney, throat, pancreas, mouth, throat, kidney, colon, anus, and stomach. 28244 schools (98.6%) out of 28632 in the state have been declared tobacco free with a self-assessment score of more than 90%. 739 villages of the state have declared themselves tobacco free. Now, for 2 months more than 13,000 panchayats will have to propose to make tobacco free villages. Advertisement Under the Control of Tobacco Act (COTPA) 2003, smoking in public places, open sale of tobacco products is punishable by a fine of up to Rs 10,000 and imprisonment for 5 years. Under COTPA 2003, 23,130 violators have been challaned under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act in the state in 2022-23. Punjab is the second state in the country to permanently ban Hookah Bars. Two court case judgments in Mohali (Rs 1 lakh fine and 3 years imprisonment) and Sangrur (Rs 55,000 fine and 3 years imprisonment) have penalized sellers of e-cigarettes under the Drug and Cosmetic Act. Cabinet Minister and Students Over 250 children of Jandiala Guru Constituency have secured more than 90% Marks: Cabinet Minister Chandigarh/Amritsar: Expressing the significance of Education, Punjab Power and Public Works Minister Harbhajan Singh ETO said, "Raising the level of education across Punjab is the first priority of the Punjab government." He further said that the state government is paying special attention to improving the infrastructure of education from the very first day of assuming power. The Cabinet Minister today gave special honors to the children who secured more than 90 percent marks from the 10th and 12th classes of Jandiala Guru Vidhan Sabha Constituency and encouraged them. Advertisement Harbhajan Singh ETO said that the first priority of the Punjab government is to bring education to the heights. He said that more than 250 children of Jandiala Guru Constituency have secured more than 90 percent marks. He said that the investment made on children never goes in vain and the state government, understanding this truth, is making continuous efforts to raise the level of education in schools. He congratulated the parents of the children and said that all possible help will be given to these children for their higher education. On this occasion, Deputy Commissioner Amit Talwar, District Police Chief Satinder Singh, SDM Simardeep Singh, principals of various schools and officials of the education department were present. The Canadian market ended notably lower on Tuesday due to widespread selling amid concerns about economic slowdown. Investors also weighed the prospects of the debt ceiling deal getting the nod from the Congress. The benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index ended down 228.25 points or 1.14% at 19,739.70. The index touched a low of 19,708.37 around mid afternoon. All the sectoral indices closed in negative territory. Weak crude oil prices triggered a sell-off in the energy sector. Shares from materials, healthcare, consumer, and financials sectors closed notably lower. Nutrien (NTR.TO), West Fraser Timber (WFG.TO), CCL Industries (CCL.A.TO), Shopify Inc (SHOP.TO) and Canadian Natural Resources (CNQ.TO) lost 2 to 4%. Kinaxis Inc (KXS.TO), Franco-Nevada Corporation (FNV.TO), George Weston (WN.TO), Waste Connections (WCN.TO) and Fairfax Financial Holdings (FFH.TO) ended lower by 1 to 1.6%. Canadian Western Bank (CWB.TO), Atco (ACO.Y.TO), Descartes Systems Group (DSG.TO) and Boyd Group Services (BYD.TO) posted strong gains. On the economic front, data released by Statistics Canada showed Canada recorded a current account deficit of C$ 6.2 billion in the first quarter of 2023, after posting a deficit of a downwardly revised C$ 8.1 billion in the previous period. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Kiser, Lewis receive Certified Instructional Leader credential Dr. Brandon Kiser, current Admiral Moorer Middle School principal, and Roshanda Lewis, Eufaula Elementary School principal, both soon-to-be Eufaula City Schools directors, were selected to receive the Certified Instructional Leader credential from CLASCouncil for Leaders in Alabama Schools. The prestigious credential will be formally conferred upon them at the CLAS Convention Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, June 13, in Mobile. Svenska Handelsbanken AB (SVNLF.PK,SVNLY.PK), a Swedish lender, said on Wednesday that it has inked a deal with S-Bank Plc, Oma Savings Bank Plc, and Fennia Life Insurance Company Ltd, to sell certain of its operations in Finland. The private customer, asset management, and investment services operations will be sold to S-Bank, who will also take over lease agreements for branch offices. Oma Savings Bank will buy the small and medium-sized enterprise operations, whereas Fennia Life Insurance will acquire the life insurance operations. The cash consideration of the deal is around 1.300 billion euros. In addition, it will obtain a maximum premium payment of 8.5 million euros. The transaction is expected to be finalized during second half of 2024. The transaction includes lending volumes of around 4.1 billion euros corresponding to a risk-weighted exposure amount of approximately 1.3 billion euros, and deposit volumes of around 2.8 billion euros. It also represents approximately 30 percent of the lending volumes and approximately 50 per cent of the risk-weighted exposure amounts in the Bank's operations in Finland. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News U.K. stocks traded lower on Wednesday as lower commodity prices on the back of disappointing manufacturing data from China pulled down mining and energy stocks. Traders also watched the latest developments surrounding the U.S. debt ceiling bill. Anglo American, Glencore, BP Plc and Shell lost 1-2 percent after China reported a contraction in manufacturing activity in May. The benchmark FTSE 100 was down 14 points, or 0.2 percent, at 7,508 after losing 1.4 percent on Tuesday. Entain, owned by Ladbrokes, fell over 2 percent after the company revealed it expects to be hit by a large fine as part of an investigation by Britain's tax authority over historic corporate misconduct involving former third-party suppliers. B&M European Value Retail S.A. jumped 5.6 percent after the discount retailer said it expects current adjusted core earnings to be higher in 2024. Bloomsbury Publishing gained 2 percent after FY23 profit and revenue beat expectations. Retailer WH Smith added 1 percent after lifting its full-year guidance. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will pay an Official Working Visit to the White House on June 8. Announcing this, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Sunak's visit is aimed at further deepening the close and historic partnership between the United States and the United Kingdom. Building on their recent engagements, the two leaders will review a range of global issues, including their steadfast support for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia's brutal war of aggression, as well as further action to bolster energy security and address the climate crisis, Jean-Pierre said. The President and the Prime Minister will discuss efforts to continue strengthening U.S.-U.K economic relationship as the two allied nations confront shared economic and national security challenges. They will also review developments in Northern Ireland as part of their shared commitment to preserving the gains of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Amazon(AMZN)'s Seattle headquarters is witnessing workers who are preparing for a walkout on Wednesday, in response to the company actions over the past year. According to Amazon Employees for Climate Justice (AECJ), a climate change advocacy group organized by the company's employees, over 1,800 employees worldwide have committed to participating in a walkout, with 870 of them being based at the company's headquarters in Seattle. A portion of the employees planning to participate in the walkout will convene at the Amazon Sphere, a four-story building located in downtown Seattle, while others will engage in the protest remotely during lunchtime. AECJ claims that the company has been sluggish in tackling its contribution to climate change. It points out that Amazon's emissions usage rose by 40 percent following the announcement of the Climate Pledge agreement in 2019. The group insists that the company needs to take further action to achieve zero emissions by 2030. According to a news release from AEJC, the urgency of the climate crisis is evident, and the walkout presents a valuable opportunity for employees to unite in solidarity and protect the remaining portions of our planet. By participating in the walkout, employees will join forces with fellow Amazon workers who are advocating for improved climate policies and addressing related concerns, with the shared belief that collective action can drive meaningful change within the company. In response to the walkout, an Amazon spokesperson acknowledged that achieving net zero carbon will require time for the company. They emphasized the company's commitment to reaching net zero carbon by 2040, highlighting the involvement of more than 400 companies in their Climate Pledge initiative. The spokesperson acknowledged the complexities associated with a company like Amazon, which has significant power consumption, transportation, packaging, and physical assets, but assured that they are diligently working towards their goal. They also affirmed the company's determination to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2025, expressing a commitment to substantial investment, innovation, and collaboration both internally and externally. The walkout occurs one month after the implementation of a company policy that mandates employees to work from the office for three days every week. In a memo sent by Amazon CEO Andy Jassy in February, it was stated that the company made the decision to require employees to work from the office for three days a week based on observations of employee work patterns during the pandemic. The conclusion drawn from these observations was that employees are more actively involved and collaborative when working in person. Furthermore, the walkout follows multiple rounds of layoffs by the company in the last few months, resulting in the elimination of 27,000 positions across various divisions such as advertising, human resources, gaming, stores, devices, and web services. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News Unlike the suspended truck seats which only aid in vertical movement, Toyotas IsoDynamic Performance seats aid in both vertical and lateral movements too Toyota has unveiled the 4th generation Tacoma pickup truck recently. It is a complete departure from outgoing model in terms of technology, features and creature comforts. This Tacoma pickup truck will likely be launched as next-gen Hilux pickup truck and an SUV version of it will become next-gen Fortuner. New Tacoma is a butch and burly vehicle and has a massive road presence. We would wager that Tacoma Limited trim level will become Fortuners face when launched. But higher spec TRD Pro trim level features an IsoDynamic seat with both vertical and horizontal dampening. Will India-spec Fortuner inherit this as well? Lets take a look at what it is. Toyotas IsoDynamic Seats on Tacoma TRD Pro What is this new IsoDynamic seat tech that Toyota is showcasing? Also, how is it any different than a suspended truck driver seat (air suspended or spring suspended)? For starters, driver seats in high-end trucks get mechanical or air suspending functions that will cushion some of the vertical movement and judders caused by road undulations. But not lateral movements, which are more evident in off-roading scenarios. Toyota engineers thought of this and developed IsoDynamic seats for Tacoma TRD Pro. Both front seats get this tech. This will aid driver and co-passenger to keep their head stable. Drivers hands will be in contact with steering wheel and feet with pedals at all times. The purpose of this seat is to absorb as many vibrations that make driver and co-passenger to experience vertical and horizontal movements. These dampers have 1.5 of travel too. Toyota tested these seats for up to 10,000 km in both on-road and off-road situations. Toyota took into consideration of multiple aspects like fabric shift with movement, looks, function, crashworthiness and theatricality. The company didnt hide this at all. The struts, pressure gauges, and knobs for adjustments are exposed for display and becomes a key design point for customers to gawk at. Hybrid powertrains take center stage Mechanically, new Tacoma will feature underpinnings from Toyotas global TNGA platform along with a hybrid powertrain branded I-Force Max. Unlike on a Tundra pickup truck, this I-Force hybrid powertrain is not a V6. Instead, it is a 2.4L 4-cylinder unit coupled with a 48 bhp electric motor and a 1.9 kWh battery and a full time 4WD system along with a center locking diff. Power output is 326 bhp and torque output is a healthy 630.45 Nm. Base SR and SR5 trims get RWD along with a limited slip diff. Creature comforts include up to 14 infotainment screen and up to 12.3 instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charger, and 10-speaker JBL speaker with removable Bluetooth speaker are notable elements. We dont think Toyota will bring this IsoDynamic Performance seat to India due to cost concerns. Outgoing Fortuner already costs Rs. 63 lakh (GR-S trim, on-road, Karnataka) and will probably go higher with the next-gen model. With additional tech like this, prices can inch closer to Rs. 1 crore mark, something which an upper-tier mid-size SUV should probably not cost. Dothan Housing Authority is offering a summer feeding program at four community sites throughout the summer for children 18 years and under. The program provides affordable housing communities and the public with crucial services that have long-term benefits. The feeding program has been a sought-after endeavor since I began serving as the CEO here at Dothan Housing, Samuel P. Crawford, CEO of Dothan Housing, said in a press release. The ability to provide support at multiple locations is commendable and a reflection of our team members passion towards our community as a whole. Beginning June 5 through July 21, meals will be served Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the community rooms at the following Dothan Housing locations: Crimson Ridge Apartments, 109 Booker St. Jamison Village, 705 N. Lena St. Phoenix Rising, 909 S. Ussery St. Henry Green Apartments, 602 S. Lena St. Im excited for our agency to provide nutritious meals to children on our properties and within our communities at no cost. Our team is trained and ready to serve, Samiyah Craddock, Dothan Housing Resident Services Manager, said. According to experts at No Kid Hungry, the feeding program can help mitigate summer weight gain, cognitive decline, and summer learning loss among children. In the long run, it may also help increase high school graduation rates and reduce susceptibility to chronic disease. For more information about the summer feeding program, contact Leah Gunn at lgunn@dothanhousing.org. A proposed hotel, spa and condos that capitalize on Carlsbads 135-year-old mineral water wells got the go-ahead this week for construction on a small vacant lot near the historic business along Carlsbad Boulevard. This is basically a scaled-down replacement of a previous hotel that existed on this site, said Mike Howes, a longtime Carlsbad real estate and planning consultant, who presented details of the Beach Village Life project Tuesday to the City Council. The original Carlsbad Hotel was a four-story, 85-room, mineral springs health resort completed in 1887. People came by train from across the country to visit the resort, known for its therapeutic waters, until a spectacular fire burned the wooden structure to the ground in 1896. Advertisement Also, across Carlsbad Boulevard from the privately owned wells, the existing Carlsbad By the Sea retirement home was built in 1930 as a health resort that originally piped in the mineral water for its guests. Today, the alkaline mineral water, discovered in 1882 by one of the citys founders, Capt. John Frazier, is bottled and sold in more than 900 stores across the region to enthusiastic consumers. All the rooms at our proposed facility will have three types of water, Howes said. Our regular Colorado River (tap water) that we drink when we have to the good quality alkaline water that people come to buy, and well also have the highly mineralized water for bathing in. The City Council approved the permits needed for the hotel project on a 4-1 vote with Councilwoman Cori Schumacher opposed. She called it a top quality project, but said she would prefer to see the low-income dwellings city requires in a percentage of all new residential development included in the project instead of provided at another location with fees paid by the developer. One of the projects architects, Robert Richardson, said after the councils approval that its one of the most exciting Village developments hes worked on in his 40-year Carlsbad career. Its a really classy project, Richardson said. Its all about history and improving health. The quarter-acre site is a vacant lot on Christiansen Way just east of the Alt Karlsbad wells and spa. The wells were abandoned in the Great Depression of the 1930s, and then were lost until they were rediscovered in 1955 by real estate agents Kay and Chris Christiansen. The Christiansens built the Alt Karlsbad building on the property, which they used primarily as a real estate office. They sold the property to present owners Ludvik & Veronica Grigoras about 1991, who installed the 13-foot-tall bronze statue of John Frazier in 1994. The Grigorases recently sold the eastern portion of the property to Laguna-based developer Beach Village Life 1 LLC. Also, earlier this year they finished drilling two new wells to meet the increasing demand for their product. A neighbor of the site, mortgage broker John Prietto, supported the development plan at Tuesdays meeting, where he was the only public speaker on the item. Its directly across the street from my front door, Prietto said, and initially he looked for reasons not to like the project. However, after talking with the developer and the city, he decided he was all for it. Its an insulator between my complex, which is mostly residents and the bars which are about 100 yards away with noise and music all hours of the night, he said. Its a nice transition between pure residential to straight commercial. Plans call a single, four-story building with 17 hotel rooms, nine residential condominiums, a 1,200-square-foot spa and 300 square feet of retail space. The property would include 53 on-site parking spaces, most of which would be underground below the building. Councilman Michael Schumacher, no relation to Cori Schumacher, called it a great project that fits perfectly into the neighborhood. Originally known as Fraziers Station, Carlsbad was renamed in the 1800s after tests showed its popular mineral water was chemically similar to that of a famous spa in the Bohemian town of Karlsbad, now Karlovy Vary, in the Czech Republic. Today, Karlovy Vary is one of Carlsbads two recognized sister cities, along with Futtsu, Japan. philip.diehl@sduniontribune.com Twitter: @phildiehl A Phenix City man who led Dothan Police on a high-speed chase was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison. Dedrick Farold Smith, 40, of Phenix City, was handed the sentence after pleading guilty to federal gun and drug charges last November. On May 25, 2021, the Dothan Police Department received information that Smith had outstanding warrants and was staying at an area hotel. He also had methamphetamine and a firearm in his possession. According to a release from the U.S. Attorneys Office, Middle District of Alabama, when officers tried to arrest Smith, he rammed two law enforcement vehicles and led police on a brief high-speed chase. Officers eventually took Smith into custody after he crashed his vehicle. During the arrest, investigators found a black bag containing methamphetamine, an empty holster on Smiths left side, and two handguns on the drivers side of Smiths vehicle. One of the firearms was reported stolen. Smith has prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing a firearm. On Nov. 29, 2022, the Attorneys Office said Smith pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm. His sentencing took place last Thursday, May 25. FADETTE One person was injured Sunday following a motorcycle accident in Geneva County. According to Slocomb Fire-Rescue, the crash occurred on South County Road 49, near County Road 60 in Fadette. Survival Flight 15 was en route to the scene but ended up being canceled after it was determined the patient could be transported to a Dothan hospital by ground. The cause of the accident is currently unknown at this time. Multiple units including the Fadette Fire District, Geneva County Sheriffs Office, Geneva County EMA and troopers from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, also responded to the incident. The preliminary hearing for a Newville man accused of killing a pregnant Jackson County teen has been delayed by more than a month. According to court records, the preliminary hearing for Marquis Devan McCloud was originally scheduled for Friday, June 9. But Houston County Judge Benjamin Lewis has rescheduled the hearing to Friday, July 14, at 9 a.m., since Sergeant Ricky Herring from the Houston County Sheriffs Office would be unable to appear on the initial date due to other business. At the hearing, prosecutors will present evidence to Judge Lewis in order to determine if the case will move forward to a grand jury. McCloud, 33, of Newville, is charged with one count of capital murder during kidnapping and one count of capital murder-two or more persons in the death of Anastasia Gilley, 19, and her four-month-old fetus. Gilleys body was discovered in the 5000 block of Headland Avenue during the early morning hours of Wednesday, May 10, after she was reported missing from her home by family members on Wednesday, May 3. Houston County Sheriff Donald Valenza said Gilley was shot multiple times and that the murder occurred on Headland Avenue. McCloud was taken into custody on the same day Gilley was found and has been held in the Houston County Jail without bond since. He has a lengthy criminal record that includes charges such as rape, armed robbery, and making terroristic threats. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, McCloud is also a registered sex offender. McCloud faces either life in prison or the death penalty if convicted. Valenza said at a press conference in early May that he will recommend the death penalty to the Houston County District Attorneys Office. I want to pursue the death penalty; this was a horrible crime committed, Valenza said. On Wednesday, Houston County District Attorney Russ Goodman announced that he will seek the death penalty for McCloud if he is convicted. Since it was identified in 1984 as the cause of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has infected more than 80 million people and been responsible for some 40 million deaths worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Currently, the WHO reports more than 38 million people globally live with the retrovirus, and each year, another 1 million new cases are diagnosed. While antiretroviral therapy helps keep HIV in check, patients must stay on their medication to prevent the development of AIDS. Scientists have spent years trying to develop an effective HIV vaccine, but none have proven successful. Based on findings from a recently published study, a Johns Hopkins Medicine-led research team may have put science one step closer to that goal. Their work first appeared online April 14, 2023, in the Journal of Experimental Medicine, and will be formally published in the July 3, 2023, issue. Using a laboratory technique created at Johns Hopkins Medicine in 2010, the study researchers replicated the cellular environment in which specialized immune cells called antigen presenting cells (APCs) break down proteins derived from HIV and make them visible ("presented") to the immune system's frontline of defense, cells known as CD4+ T lymphocytes, or helper T cells. "Our simple method, called reductionist cell-free antigen processing, reproduces in a test tube the complex events that occur in the human immune system as a response to antigens, foreign invaders to the body such as viruses like HIV," says senior study author Scheherazade Sadegh-Nasseri, Ph.D., professor of pathology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. "When APCs chew up proteins from an antigen and present the fragments, known as antigenic epitopes, on their surface, the epitopes become visible to helper T cells and initiate an immune response." "If we can identify which epitopes are 'immunodominant' -- the ones that elicit the strongest immune system response to the virus -- then we may have the essential ingredients for the long-sought recipe to make an effective HIV vaccine," explains Sadegh-Nasseri. Epitopes that are immunodominant have structures that uniquely fit like a lock and key with cell-surface proteins on APCs known as major histocompatibility molecules, or MHCs. "If you think of an HIV epitope as a hot dog and the MHC as a bun, the 'meal' is what gets presented to CD4+ T cells," says lead study author Srona Sengupta, an M.D./Ph.D. candidate in immunology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. "T cells that can recognize the HIV epitope-MHC complex as foreign become activated and signal B cells -- a different type of immune cell that produces antibodies, in this case, specific to HIV. Antibodies bind to the virus, destroying already infected cells or preventing HIV from entering uninfected ones -- the key functions of an effective vaccine." Sadegh-Nasseri says previous efforts to map and identify the desired immunodominant epitopes have proven unreliable. "Traditional methods use a 'brute-force' system where synthetic peptides representing portions of real HIV proteins are tested in the hopes that some will stimulate an immune response and direct researchers to the epitopes needed for vaccine development," says Sadegh-Nasseri. "Not only is this strategy hit or miss, but the method doesn't allow for the real-world chemical and molecular interactions that can impact how epitopes are produced and function." This, she explains, is a major reason why an effective HIV vaccine remains elusive. "Our cell-free antigen processing system," says Sadegh-Nasseri, "replicates how epitopes are actually processed in the APC's cellular environment and become presented, including any influencing factors that may come into play." "This enabled us to study nearly the entire HIV proteome [all of the proteins produced by the virus] and distinctly identify epitopes that are selected for presentation to CD4+ T cells by a chaperone protein called HLA-DM," says Sengupta. "That's important because we know that HIV epitopes processed and edited by HLA-DM are immunodominant." Sengupta adds that 35 epitopes identified in the recent studies were previously unknown. The researchers say that their analysis using the cell-free antigen processing system revealed three important findings: (1) the epitopes identified are indeed generated in humans who are HIV positive and lead to the development of memory CD4+ T cells (the immune cells that remember an antigen for future encounters); (2) the processing system can be very useful in predicting which parts of HIV protein antigens may yield the immunodominant epitopes that can be included in new vaccines; and (3) the system's use of full-length natural proteins ensures that the impacts of any cellular environmental influences (such as those causing modifications of viral epitopes after infected host cells have produced them) are taken into account. Current analysis technologies lack such abilities, say Sadegh-Nasseri and Sengupta. "Interestingly, we identified several epitopes that were modified by sugar groups, a potentially important finding for vaccine developers to know, but one that traditional analysis would have missed," says Sengupta. Sadegh-Nasseri and Sengupta say that their team will continue to refine the immunodominant epitope identification system and use the data from future analyses to enhance the ability of vaccine developers to design robust and effective protective measures against not only HIV, but also SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) and other viral pathogens. Along with Sadegh-Nasseri and Sengupta, the members of the study team from Johns Hopkins Medicine and Johns Hopkins University are Nathan Board, Tatiana Boronina, Robert Cole, Madison Reed, Kevin Shenderov, co-senior author Robert Siliciano, Janet Siliciano, Andrew Timmons, Robin Welsh, Weiming Yang and Josephine Zhang. The team also includes Steven Deeks and Rebecca Hoh from the University of California San Francisco, and Aeryon Kim from Amgen Inc. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists discovered how the current epizootic H5N1 avian influenza virus (bird flu) gained new genes and greater virulence as it spread west. Researchers showed that the avian virus could severely infect the brains of mammalian research models, a notable departure from previous related strains of the virus. The researchers genetically traced the virus' expansion across the continent and its establishment in wild waterfowl populations to understand what makes it so different. The study was recently published in Nature Communications. "We haven't seen a virus quite like this one," said corresponding author Richard Webby, Ph.D., St. Jude Department of Infectious Diseases. "In 24 years of tracing this particular H5N1 flu lineage, we haven't seen this ability to cause disease but also be maintained in these wild bird populations." When the scientists tested the newer avian flu strains for their ability to cause disease in mammals by infecting a ferret model, they found an unexpectedly high amount of pathogenicity. "Some of these are really nasty viruses," Webby said. "There's a huge amount of the virus in the brain of infected animals. That's the hallmark of what we saw with these flu strains -- increased pathogenicity associated with high virus load in the brain. That's not the first time we've seen H5 viruses in the brain, but these are probably some of the most virulent we've looked at over 24 years of following these viruses." Previous influenza viruses that caused severe disease in North America "burned out" in their main host bird population, and the outbreaks ended quickly. This current strain was detected at high levels in sick chickens but has expanded into other species. "This is not just a chicken virus now," Webby said. "It's also infecting other avian and mammal species in the U.S. It's a higher exposure risk for humans and other mammals than we've ever had in North America. We've never really been exposed to this level of circulation of these highly pathogenic flu viruses." A low risk to humans (for now) While the newer strains of this H5N1 influenza show a greater ability to cause disease in mammals than earlier viruses, the scientists found it to be low-risk to humans. This is because the virus appears well-adapted to transmit between birds rather than between mammals. "Overall, their risk to humans is still low," Webby said. "But that risk does seem to be changing, and these viruses are doing things that we haven't seen H5s do before. They've come into the continent's wild bird population, they've reassorted, and they've been maintained over time. There are now many different types out there, and they're very nasty." Even though the risk of spreading infection is low, the research suggests humans should be cautious interacting with wildlife. "Someone would have to work pretty hard to infect themselves with this virus. But if they do happen to be infected, there's a real chance of getting a severe disease from it," Webby said. "People just need to be careful and remember that some of the wild animals out there potentially harbor these highly pathogenic viruses." Genetic change supercharges spread and severity In the past, similar strains of influenza viruses have not caused similarly severe diseases, nor have they become far-flung in wild bird populations. Since the new strains have done so much more damage, the scientists looked for what was different. The group identified the direct ancestor to the current strains, which spread from Europe to the Americas after gaining a different version of the viral protein, neuraminidase. This new protein increased the virus's ability to transmit between birds. Then it arrived on the East Coast of Canada and traveled to the United States. As the researchers studied the virus further, they pinpointed which viruses -- distinct from previous ones -- caused the current outbreaks. They found that after reaching North America, the virus rapidly changed again to become more virulent. It mixed with flu viruses in North American wild birds, swapping several genes. This reassortment of genes had two effects. One, the virus seemed to become even more adapted to the bird population, infecting many different types of birds. This included atypical hosts, such as buzzards and eagles, which typically do not get the flu. Second, the virus gained its severe disease-causing properties. "The surprising thing was that just a few reassortment events did change these viruses' ability to cause disease in our models," Webby said. "And those events generated many different genotypes from that mixing. Then those viruses spread and have now become established in the North American wild bird population." Webby's group and others continue to monitor the ongoing avian flu pandemic globally to assess its continually evolving risk to both humans and birds. Victorias startup ecosystem has experienced remarkable growth and resilience, with innovative companies emerging as beacons of success during challenging times. LaunchVic, an organisation dedicated to supporting startups in the region, recently held its annual awards ceremony to honour outstanding achievers. Among the winners were Mr Yum, Zeller, Willed, and Dr Elena Kelareva, each recognised for their remarkable contributions to their respective industries. Startup of the Year: Mr Yum Empowering Local Hospitality Businesses During Pandemic Restrictions Mr Yum, the popular food ordering app, claimed the prestigious Startup of the Year award for its pivotal role in assisting local hospitality businesses during pandemic restrictions. As dining establishments faced unprecedented challenges, Mr Yum stepped in to provide a lifeline. The app offered a user-friendly platform that enabled customers to browse menus, order food, and make payments seamlessly, thereby supporting restaurants and cafes in staying open despite the limitations imposed by lockdowns. Through innovative solutions and unwavering commitment, Mr Yum demonstrated the power of technology in fostering resilience within the hospitality sector. Scaleup of the Year: Zeller A Fintech Phenomenon Breaking Records Zeller, a fintech firm, took home the Scaleup of the Year award thanks to its extraordinary growth and remarkable achievements. Zeller reached a billion-dollar valuation within a remarkably short period in a feat that set an Australian record. The companys dedication to providing innovative financial solutions resonated with customers, resulting in a rapidly expanding customer base of 35,000 businesses within its first three years of operation. Zellers success story exemplifies the transformative power of fintech in empowering businesses and revolutionising the financial landscape. Best Newcomer Award: Willed Simplifying End-of-Life Planning for All Australians Willed, an online tool created by a team of lawyers and tech experts in 2020, earned the coveted Best Newcomer award. Recognising the importance of end-of-life planning, Willed set out to make this essential process more accessible and affordable. The platform enables anyone to create a legal will in as little as 15 minutes, ensuring that individuals can take control of their estate planning without the need for costly legal assistance. Willeds dedication to democratising end-of-life planning was lauded for its potential to empower Australians and promote a proactive approach to estate management. Regional Ecosystem Hero of the Year: Dr Elena Kelareva Pioneering Digital Innovation in Gippsland Dr. Elena Kelareva, CEO of GippsTech, was honored as the Regional Ecosystem Hero of the Year for her exceptional contributions to digital innovation in Gippsland. Dr. Kelarevas visionary leadership and tireless efforts have helped shape the regional startup ecosystem, fostering collaboration and driving technological advancements. Through GippsTech, she has championed the development of digital solutions, enabling businesses and communities in Gippsland to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. On May 15, in yet another act of petty vindictiveness aimed at the United States, Russian authorities arrested 62-year-old Robert Shonov, one of their own citizens and a former employee of the U.S. Consulate General in Vladivostok. He was charged with cooperating on a confidential basis with a foreign state, [or] international organization. He was transferred to the Lefortovo prison, where he is being held in preventive custody". These allegations against Mr. Shonov are wholly without merit, said Vedant Patel, Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the U.S. Department of State. Mr. Shonov is a Russian national who was employed by the consulate general for more than 25 years, and after Russia forced the termination of our locally employed staff, he was employed by a company that was contracted to provide services to the embassy in Moscow. That was done in strict compliance with Russian laws, he said. For 25 years, Robert Shonov worked for the U.S. Consulate in Vladivostok. However, on April 23, 2021, the Russian government notified the United States that it intended to prohibit U.S. Mission Russia from employing foreign nationals in any capacity. The Russian staff, who we were forced to let go received a generous package that included several months of severance pay, allowances, extended medical insurance, and a prorated annual bonus, he said. At the time of his arrest Mr. Shonov was simply assisting the public affairs and press division. The United States strongly condemns the reported arrest of Robert Shonov, a former employee of U.S. Mission Russia, said State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller in a written statement. Like any diplomatic mission in the world including Russias Mission to the United States the U.S. Embassy contracts for local services to operate its diplomatic mission. Mr. Shonovs only role at the time of his arrest was to compile media summaries of press items from publicly available Russian media sources. His being targeted under the confidential cooperation statute highlights the Russian Federations blatant use of increasingly repressive laws against its own citizens. On May 18, 2023, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York entered final judgments against Joshua W. Turney and Hector Perez, former registered representatives at New York broker-dealer Global Arena Capital Corp., in a civil action in which the SEC alleged that they conducted an unauthorized trading scheme. The final judgments resolve the SEC's case against Turney and Perez. The SEC's complaint alleged that from April through June 2015, defendants Jonah Engler, Barbara Desiderio, Turney, and Perez fraudulently schemed to conduct large-scale trading in certain Global Arena customer accounts without receiving authorization from those customers. The defendants' illicit trading allegedly took place in over 360 customer accounts, generated over $2.4 million in unlawful profits for Global Arena and ill-gotten gains for the defendants, and resulted in over $4 million in net losses for their customers. The SEC's complaint charged Turney and Perez with violating Section 17(a)(1) and (3) of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rules 10b-5(a) and (c) thereunder. Turney and Perez were charged criminally by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York, and each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit securities fraud. Turney was sentenced to two years' imprisonment followed by two years' supervised release, ordered to pay $5,295,868.12 in restitution, jointly and severally with Perez, and to forfeit $281,914. Perez was sentenced to two years' probation, ordered to pay $5,295,868.12 in restitution, jointly and severally with Turney, and to forfeit $137,275. Turney and Perez consented to the entry of separate final judgments in the SEC action. Turney was ordered to pay disgorgement of $347,019.13 and prejudgment interest of $81,297.47. Perez was ordered to pay disgorgement of $137,275.26 and prejudgment interest of $32,159.94. The payments were deemed satisfied by the restitution order for Turney and the restitution and forfeiture orders for Perez, in the respective parallel criminal proceedings. The Court in the SEC action previously entered partial consent judgments against Turney and Perez, permanently enjoining each of them from violating the Securities Act and Exchange Act antifraud provisions. For further information, see Litigation Release No. 24874 (Aug. 25, 2020). The SEC also recently concluded its litigation against Engler and Desiderio. The SEC's litigation and investigation teams included Richard Primoff, Margaret Spillane, Jacqueline Fine, Hane L. Kim, and Steven G. Rawlings, all of the New York Regional Office, and Sandra Yanez of the Home Office. The litigation was supervised by Sheldon Pollock of the New York Regional Office. The SEC appreciates the assistance in this matter of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. The United States continues to target the terrorist group al-Shabaab - one of al-Qaidas most dangerous affiliates, which has killed thousands of people, including Americans, in Somalia and across East Africa. The State Department recently designated five al-Shabaab leaders as Specially Designated Global Terrorists. The first is named Maxamed Siidow, a finance emir and commander in the groups armed wing, the Jabha. Siidow oversees illicit taxation operations in Aliyow Barrow in the Lower Shabelle, Somalia. He has also led al-Shabaab fighters in attacks and participated in attack planning operations utilizing improvised explosive devices, or IEDs. Cali Yare is a finance emir who oversees al-Shabaabs illicit taxation operations for the village of Beled Amin, Lower Shabelle. Yare directed and claimed responsibility for the November 14, 2018, IED attack on Somali Armed Forces. Maxamed Dauud Gabaane is a finance emir, responsible for all al-Shabaab finance operations in Wanlaweyn District and Beled Amin, Lower Shabelle. Gabaane also serves as the head of the groups intelligence wing, the Amniyat, in Wanlaweyn District. Suleiman Cabdi Daoud is a finance emir, and commissioner of Beled Amin. Daoud also oversees al-Shabaabs illicit taxation operations in Lower Shabelle, responsible for collecting religious taxation from villagers. He assists in overseeing an al-Shabaab court that stores fines collected from civilians in the region. Mohamed Omar Mohamed is the commissioner of the al-Shabaab group in the Diinsor District, Bay Region, Somalia, and has been responsible for a series of attacks targeting civilians. The Department of the Treasury concurrently designated 15 al-Shabaab financial facilitators and operatives, four charcoal smugglers, and seven of their associated companies. As a result of these actions, all property and interests in property of those designated that are subject to U.S. jurisdiction are blocked, and all U.S. persons are generally prohibited from engaging in any transactions with them. These designations highlight al-Shabaabs reliance on networks of regional and international actors and entities, who provide funds, direct attacks, and enable the groups malign activities, including the manufacturing and planting of explosives in local communities and fostering corruption, said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson. The United States remains committed to helping the Somali government fight the al-Shabaab terrorist threat, which undermines both national and regional stability and security. Economic activity in the Chicago area tumbled in May, according to data released on Wednesday. The MNI Chicago business barometer slid to 40.4 from 48.6 in April, coming in well below consensus expectations for a reading of 47.0. Kieran Clancy, senior US economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said the drop in the headline index more than reverses the near-five point April spike and leaves it below 50 for the ninth straight month, although it is above its recent low of 37.9, last November. "The Chicago PMI broadly tracks the lagged trend in civilian aircraft orders- Boeing is headquartered in Chicago- which jumped in the second half of last year, but aircraft orders have dipped more recently as the post-Covid rebound in air travel has petered out," he said. "The full suite of regional manufacturing surveys points to a one-point drop in the national ISM manufacturing index, due tomorrow; remember that the regional surveys are much more volatile than the national ISM index due to their small samples. "Either way, the big picture here is that the manufacturing sector remains firmly in recession, as the ongoing deterioration in domestic demand - due to higher rates and dwindling capital availability- is offsetting any boost from the re-opening of Chinas economy." British households on prepayment meters face missing out on up to 130m of support for their energy bills if they fail to redeem government vouchers before they expire in a months time. Under the energy bills support scheme, which runs until 30 June, all households are entitled to discounts of up to 400 on their bills. Guardian Rail services in parts of England have ground to a halt with the first of three train strikes this week taking place as the long-running dispute between the unions and the government over pay, jobs and conditions continues. A 24-hour strike by members of the drivers union Aslef is under way and a further day of industrial action is planned for Saturday, the day of the FA Cup final. Guardian The boss of BAE Systems has discussed setting up weapons production inside Ukraine in talks with Volodymyr Zelensky. In a further sign of Britains central role in arming Ukrainian forces, the FTSE 100 maker of Challenger 2 tanks, artillery pieces and ammunition crucial to the war against Russia held direct talks with the countrys president, both sides confirmed on Tuesday evening. As well as manufacturing and repair facilities, Mr Zelensky and BAE chief executive Charles Woodburn discussed setting up a local office in the country. Telegraph A fund management company behind a scandal-hit property investment trust that raised 740 million from UK investors has been accused of disguising rent arrears and secretly releasing a developer from refurbishment obligations. Home Reit, which specialises in housing for the homeless, said after hiring corporate investigators that Alvarium Home Reit Advisors, its former manager, had failed to bring several matters to its attention. It said the lack of transparency had hampered the boards ability to assess the medium-term financial strength of its tenant base and the ability of its tenants to pay rent. It also said the manager had provided inaccurate information to an outside body, the Good Economy, a consultancy that had been responsible for assessing the trusts social, environmental and economic impact. The consultants were blocked from carrying out physical inspections of properties. The Times The construction of new offices in Londons West End is consistently outpacing the City for the first time as demand from financial services trails that of other sectors. The volume of space being developed in the Square Mile business district is close to its lowest level in at least eight years, according to research by Deloitte, in contrast with the steady recovery in activity in the West End since the pandemic. The Times Xiaomi India has partnered with Dixon Technologies to produce smartphones for both the domestic market and for trade, the organisation declared. The homegrown electronics producer will also be visiting to set up a component ecosystem through its wholly-owned subsidiaries to deepen the value chain of Xiaomi smartphones. Dixon is aiming to start production of Xiaomi smartphones by August-September at a new 320,000 square feet facility in Noida which is in the process of setting up. "This partnership will leverage Dixons manufacturing excellence & superior execution track record & Xiaomi expertise & leadership in Indian business ecosystem & it represents a major milestone in Indian governments Make in India initiative," said Atul B. Lall, vice chairman and managing director, Dixon Technologies. The development comes after Chinese handset makers were asked by the government to work with domestic manufacturers to deepen the supply chain in India and avail the benefits of the production-linked incentive scheme. Scaler, an edtech startup, declared its acquisition of Pepcoding, an education platform based in Delhi, in a move aimed at enhancing its business ecosystem. The exact financial details of the transaction were not disclosed. The acquisition of Pepcoding by Scaler is anticipated to drive growth and provide substantial support to multiple business units, including strategy, product design, B2B enterprise, and operations, among others. This marks Scalers fourth acquisition in the past two years, following AppliedRoots, Coding Minutes, and Coding Elements. Sumeet Malik, the co-founder of Pepcoding, has joined Scaler as an instructor and content creator to enhance the learning experience, particularly in the low-level design (LLD) curriculum. Several other employees from Pepcoding have also joined Scaler as full-time members, contributing their expertise to various teams within the organization. Sumeets team has demonstrated a unique ability to stay true to its core ability to transform the learning experiences of young engineering students. Their experience with undergraduate students will come in handy to our recently launched residential undergraduate programme, the Scaler School of Technology. Their diverse talent pool and Sumeets extensive industry expertise will help accelerate the pace we are working towards achieving our vision and mission, said Abhimanyu Saxena, cofounder of Scaler. Scaler has garnered support from renowned global investors such as Sequoia Capital India, Tiger Global, and Lightrock India. The edtech startup has successfully extended its presence across both India and the United States, establishing a strong foothold in these regions. Like Scaler, we are excessively focused towards the success of our students and firmly believe the nation has enough raw talent to one day build products and companies that will dominate the world, similar to what organisations like Google, Microsoft and Uber have done. All they need is the appropriate direction and access to opportunities, said Malik STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. In the seconds before 29-year-old Sean Dallas was shot and killed on a residential street in Mariners Harbor, the alleged shooter made a fateful decision, according to prosecutors Tuesday in an ongoing trial surrounding the mans death. Video surveillance viewed by the jury during closing arguments showed a blue sedan with tinted windows hang a left onto Grandview Avenue just before 8:45 a.m. on the morning of Sept. 15, 2020 before making a U-turn in the middle of the street and heading back toward the alleged target. Behind the wheel, authorities say, was then 31-year-old Jahel Ashley. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A New Springville resident pleaded guilty this week to a hate crime in the 2021 assault of Jewish man in Brooklyn. The defendant, Suleiman Othman, first approached Blake Zavadsky in December of 2021, outside a Foot Locker on 86th Street in Bay Ridge, according to law-enforcement officials. Othman, then 27, demanded the 21-year-old victim take off a hoody bearing the emblem for the Israeli military, also known as the Israeli Defense League (IDF). When Zavadsky refused, police said, the defendant punched him twice in the face and threw a cup of iced coffee on him. He was treated at the scene for a laceration and swelling to the face. The defendant turned himself into police on Jan. 11, 2022. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A 10-foot-long and 522-pound great white shark was recently tracked just off the Jersey Shore. Scientists at the non-profit group OCEARCH are tracking the path of a shark they call Penny, which breached the surface of the waters off the coast of Ocean City, N.J., this week. The 10.3-foot, 522-pound juvenile female great white was pinged on Monday at 6:48 a.m., and could continue to travel north along the Jersey Shore, perhaps headed toward Staten Island. A 522-pound great white shark named Penny pinged off the coast of the Jersey Shore on May 29, 2023. (Courtesy/Chris Ross/OCEARCH) OCEARCH, founded by Chris Fischer, tracks and studies sharks in hopes of creating a large enough database for scientific communities across the globe to learn new things about the underwater creatures. The organization shares real-time data through OCEARCHs Global Shark Tracker. Crew members fish for sharks using drum lines and hand lines. The sharks are marked with multiple tags: a spot tag to track large-scale movement; a pop-off tag to understand diving patterns, and an internal acoustic tag to track movement within smaller areas. According to OCEARCH, a ping is recorded when the tagged sharks dorsal fin breaks the surface of the water and transmits a signal to a satellite overhead. A 522-pound great white shark named Penny pinged off the coast of the Jersey Shore on May 29, 2023. (Courtesy/Chris Ross/OCEARCH) Penny was tagged on April 23, 2023, in the waters near Ocracoke, N.C. She is the 92nd white shark tagged in the western North Atlantic and the fourth shark tagged during OCEARCHs Expedition Northbound. She is named after the people of Salty Penny Canvas in Morehead City, N.C., which helped OCEARCH with custom marine canvas projects that provide a more comfortable experience on the water and allow the non-profit to operate in tougher conditions. Expedition Northbound is OCEARCHs 45th ocean research expedition to help further knowledge on great white sharks as they begin to leave the Carolinas region and transition north for the summer. Alongside 42 collaborators from 28 research institutions, the organization collects data to support 25 science projects to help solve, for the first time, the life history puzzle of the white shark in the western North Atlantic Ocean. Data by the non-profit shows that prior to their spring migration north, many white sharks use the continental shelf waters around the Outer Banks, N.C., region as they prepare to move farther north. From April to June each year, both male and female sharks can be found in this area in significant numbers which OCEARCH suggested could mean the sharks are taking advantage of the ample food supply to fuel their migration to summer feeding grounds. FOLLOW ANNALISE KNUDSON ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy reached a compromise agreement tweaking some federal programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as part of their deal to prevent a U.S. debt default. Ideas to enact stricter work requirements for low-income Americans seeking federal assistance has been a fierce point of tension between Biden and McCarthy throughout their meetings, with Biden against it and the Republicans pushing for more requirements. While no changes to Medicaid were made in the deal, which the pair reached on Sunday, the age group with work requirements for SNAP eligibility will expand. Under current policy, able-bodied adults without dependents between ages 18-50 are limited to three months of SNAP benefits during any 36-month period if they cannot show they are employed or in a work or training program for at least 20 hours a week. The bill outlined based on Biden and McCarthys deal would raise the cap for work requirements from age 50 to 54. Special protections are included for veterans and people experiencing homelessness. The new policy would be phased in by 2025 and expire by October 1, 2030. SNAP REPLACEMENT BENEFITS ON HORIZON Good news for any SNAP recipients who have had their benefits stolen, replacements are on the way. Congress passed a law in 2022 to allow for SNAP benefits to be replaced for recipients who fell victim to card skimming, cloning and other methods criminals have recently used to electronically steal food stamps. Over the past few months, the U.S. Department of Agricultures Food and Nutrition Service has been processing and approving states plans to implement the new law. New Yorks plan was approved in April and is anticipated to go into effect by June 30, according to the USDAs website. The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, which administers SNAP in the Empire State, will begin updating its SNAP webpage in late June with information on the process and timeline for impacted households to apply for replacement benefits and what types of benefits may be eligible for replacement. In the meantime, SNAP recipients who believe their benefits have been stolen should immediately report their SNAP card stolen, change their PIN and report the theft to their local department of social services, OTDA recommends. RELATED NEWS SNAP, Social Security benefits, veterans benefits, Medicaid may be at risk if U.S. defaults on debt Each NYC public school family to receive at least $391 per child in pandemic food benefits This proposed bill would boost SNAP benefits Social Security COLA increase: How much can recipients expect in 2024? NYC senior meal program could lose millions in funding in proposed 2024 budget, reports say FOLLOW GIAVANNI ALVES ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER. Editors note: Staten Island Ferry riders have been forced to endure years of service disruptions caused by various complications around strict licensing requirements, labor disputes, short staffing and more. This story is the first part of a series that explores both the people and the issues involved in the plight of the iconic Staten Island Ferry, which was once one of the most reliable forms of mass transit in New York City. Inside the interactive, click twice on their role to explore. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- For decades, Staten Islanders have endured one of the longest commutes in the country, as thousands of residents spend hours each day making their way to and from Manhattan. As the only borough without a subway line connecting it to the rest of New York City, commuters have come to rely on the free service provided by the Staten Island Ferry, as their only alternatives are coughing up $6.75 per trip to ride MTA express buses or paying hundreds of dollars in tolls each month to sit in mind-numbing traffic. Residents had grown accustomed to consistent, reliable service on the iconic, orange vessels that once crossed New York Harbor like clockwork, adhering to a schedule championed by borough officials that ensured riders would never be stuck waiting more than 30 minutes for the next boat, even when returning from the latest of nights or setting out in the earliest of mornings. But thats all changed. Ferry riders are now finding that service levels can be reduced on any given day at the drop of hat, costing commuters valuable time that could otherwise be spent at home with friends, family and loved ones. Most recently, the Staten Island Ferry was forced to run hourly service for more than 24 hours straight heading into Memorial Day Weekend, outraging riders whose trips to and from work were upended by the significant reduction in service. You cant do this to us. Every day its something different, rider Cynthia Johnson told the Staten Island Advance/SILive.com. Im a registered nurse, I need to get to work on-time to treat my patients. Fellow commuter Cynthia Davis added: People need to be at work at a certain time or they could lose their job. Some of the issues have been simmering under the surface for over a decade, but the onset of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in spring 2020 brought things to a boiling point. In the earliest days of the pandemic, Staten Island Ferry service was reduced to match the depleted ridership, with stay-at-home orders for non-essential workers causing ridership to plummet by 86%. Service was incrementally restored as the city began to reopen, but shortly after the ferry returned to its full schedule, rolling service reductions, particularly during afternoon and overnight hours, became a regular occurrence. The service reductions are a result of short staffing at the Staten Island Ferry, an issue thats intensified in recent years as crew members continue to leave the job and the Department of Transportation (DOT) struggles to replace them during a national maritime workers shortage. The short staffing, coupled with legal requirements set forth by the United States Coast Guard (USCG), has left the Staten Island Ferry in a situation where a single employees absence can disrupt service and force a shift to a reduced schedule. So whos involved with the ongoing service issues on the Staten Island Ferry? The answer is a bit complicated, with various entities contributing to the recurring service reductions that have plagued Staten Island commuters over the past several years. The Advance/SILive.com broke down the key players in the Staten Island Ferry saga, explaining their involvement in the situation and the role they must play in returning the once-reliable mass transit icon to its former glory. The Staten Island Senator John J. Marchi ferryboat with the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in background. (Staten Island Advance) New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) The DOT is responsible for operating the Staten Island Ferry, one of the oldest and largest passenger ferry systems in the country, serving over 22 million passengers per year at its peak. In recent years, the department has struggled to recruit and retain crew members, leading to insufficient staffing levels that have forced recurring service reductions, due to the departments inability to adequately staff all scheduled trips. Since 2018, the department has lost and failed to replace roughly two dozen crew members, according to data provided by the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (MEBA), the union representing the captains, assistant captains, mates, engineers and chief engineers on the Staten Island Ferry. In order to address the ongoing service issues, the DOT must find a way to return staffing levels to what they once were, ensuring that there are always sufficient crew members to provide the legally mandated, half-hourly service. Local Law 88 of 2013, introduced by former Councilman James Oddo, requires that the Staten Island Ferry provide half-hourly service around-the-clock, but leaves room for the department to reduce service when events outside the departments control prevent compliance with the half-hourly schedule. In a recent letter to Staten Islands elected officials, DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez outlined the various steps being taken by the department to address the ongoing staffing and service issues. Staten Island Ferry makes every effort to staff boats each day to comply with the schedule set forth by Local Law 88 and within the parameters set by the Safety Management System, as well as by the United States Coast Guard, and even as we face shortages, Staten Island Ferry has prioritized providing peak hour coverage for the majority of those using our system, Rodriguez wrote. The department has expanded its recruiting outreach efforts by attending professional maritime and veteran organization careers fairs, where officials are more likely to find candidates with the necessary qualifications. The DOT is also in the early stages of developing a marine oilers apprenticeship program at the Staten Island Ferry, which would train workers on-site to receive their certifications with hopes of permanently hiring them once theyve completed the program. Officials are working with the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) to amend the marine oiler title to designate it as hard-to-recruit, which would remove the citys residency requirement and increase the starting salary to the minimum incumbent salary, an $8,000 increase. The department has also reallocated qualified office staff to cover open positions on the boat, trained qualified deckhands to serve as marine oilers and modified fleet personnel schedules. In this April 2023 file photo, the Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, Archdiocese officials and distinguished guests take the first ride aboard the third and final new Ollis-class Staten Island Ferry vessel, the Dorothy Day. (Staten Island Advance) Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (MEBA) The Marine Engineers Beneficial Association is the international maritime union that represents various key operational titles at the Staten Island Ferry, including the captains, assistant captains, mates, engineers and chief engineers. The union has been fighting the city for nearly 13 years for a fair and respectful new contract, with workers not having received a single wage increase since 2010. Union officials claim the lack of a new contract and existing low wages have made it difficult for the city to recruit and retain workers during an ongoing national maritime workers shortage. The union says that the compensation currently being offered by the city is far below what union members could make elsewhere in the country, making it difficult for the city to acquire and retain these workers, who often leave for better-paying jobs. Roland Rexha, secretary/treasurer for MEBA and former shop steward at the Staten Island Ferry, recently sat down with the Staten Island Advance/SILive.com to discuss the service issues and ongoing contract negotiations. He said he believes the city has intentionally dragged out contract negotiations in an attempt to make the union more willing to accept a new deal that would pay less than what the union believes its workers are entitled to. I think the city has done this purposefully, theyve extended and pushed and made sure these decisions have taken as long as possible in a way to try to starve our membership to take a pattern agreement thats well below what they deserve and well below what the industry pays for people with these licenses and education and experience, Rexha said. The staffing issues have now reached the point where Rexha claims the department doesnt currently have enough crew members to run full service without forcing overtime and making employees skip legally-mandated safety drills. Right now were at a point where there are less people to operate the ferry than there are scheduled runs. What theyre doing now is theyre forcing people to work, instead of their eight-hour shift or 10-hour shift, theyre saying they have to work a 12-hour shift, Rexha said. And instead of doing safety drills, what theyve been saying to them is No, we need you to cover the vessels, the vessel has to operate. So now theyre operating the vessels without doing the necessary Coast Guard safety drills which has been a problem, he added. We told them this is a safety issue, youre actually putting the passengers safety at risk and it was met with Oh, youre only saying that because youre out of contract. The union said it is not opposed to working longer shifts, but that workers would need to be fairly compensated with higher base salaries so they dont have to constantly work overtime in order to make ends meet. What weve been proposing the whole time is having us work more hours, bringing the base salary up to a point where people dont have to come in for the overtime, theyre not overworked and at the same time, having this ferry run effectively, efficiently and safety, said Rexha. Securing a new contract with more competitive wages would likely make it easier for the DOT to fill the vacant MEBA-represented titles, which, in theory, would lead to fewer service disruptions for Staten Island commuters. Aerial view of the St. George Ferry Terminal. (Staten Island Advance) United States Coast Guard (USCG) The United States Coast Guard (USCG) sets forth the licensing requirements and necessary certifications for various Staten Island Ferry crew titles. The extensive training required for titles like captain and assistant captain limit the amount of prospective hires, making it difficult for the DOT to find qualified candidates for the jobs. Rexha explained that members must pass numerous tests and receive various credentials from the USCG before even applying for a position at the ferry, in addition to needing hundreds, if not thousands, of days of previous sea time. To work [as a mate] at the Staten Island Ferry you need to complete six different modules besides the 1,100 days of sea time and then at that point you get a license, Rexha said. So now you have a license, you are now a mate at the Staten Island Ferry. To be an assistant captain you have to have full pilotage ... and for our captains, youve got to have a license and you have to have a masters license, he continued. That license is something like 1,700 days of sailing time, plus you have to have your pilotage, plus you have to retest on everything. Making matters worse, fewer and fewer cadets in the nations six maritime academies are passing the exams needed to earn their merchant marine officers licenses, according to maritime outlet gCaptain. The Coast Guard mandates that each vessel be staffed with at least one captain, one assistant captain and various other positions, like chief marine engineers, marine engineers and marine oilers, in order to legally operate. These requirements, coupled with the current short-staffing, mean that a single crew members absence can force the Staten Island Ferry to run reduced service, as it would be illegal and unsafe to operate the vessel without each position filled. In this September 2011 file photo, the Staten Island Ferry is escorted to the St. George Ferry Terminal by the U.S. Coast Guard. (Staten Island Advance) Mayor of New York City The mayor of New York City is responsible for administering all city agencies, including the Department of Transportation, which operates the Staten Island Ferry, the Office of Labor Relations, which is responsible for negotiating union contracts, and the Office of Management and Budget, which determines city funding for various agencies. While these responsibilities now rest on the shoulders of Mayor Eric Adams, the contract dispute between the city and MEBA has spanned three mayoral administrations, with former mayors Michael Bloomberg and Bill de Blasio also failing to oversee a successful contract agreement. [Former Mayor Michael] Bloomberg refused to deal with the unions in 2010 and pushed the contracts off to [former Mayor Bill] de Blasio, Rexha said. De Blasio offered a contract that was 10% over seven years, but the union felt the contract was unacceptable. The union rejected the contract, because in 2003, following a Staten Island Ferry crash that killed 11 people, the city commissioned a study that found that the ferry wasnt staffing professional mariners or paying adequate wages for the position. The reality is, they did end up hiring professional mariners ... guys who had experience sailing outside of New York Harbor, guys who had been on ships before. But in doing so, they still never paid us what the actual mariners wages are. They refused to pay us a competitive wage compared to other people with our titles, Rexha said. MEBA had expressed cautious optimism that Adams would prioritize resolving the longstanding contract dispute, but little progress has been made since he took office in January 2022. I spoke to the mayor-elect himself, and I explained to him the situation, and I think his team is going to be extremely receptive to whats going on, Rexha said in December 2021. I know they care about the people of Staten Island, and in caring about the people of Staten Island, they want to get this resolved. Thats something that they made very clear to me, he added. A representative from the mayors administration said at the time that Adams would continue his conversations with the union in hopes of reaching a resolution on the longtime contract dispute. Ferry workers have played a vital role in keeping Staten Island moving. We look forward to engaging MEBA leadership on a conversation about how to move forward with a fair and equitable contract that recognizes their hard work and contributions, the spokesperson told the Advance/SILive.com. However, more than a year later, the issue remains unresolved, with the Adams administration having little to say about the matter. The Mayors Office did not respond to the most recent requests for comment regarding efforts being made to improve Staten Island Ferry service and resolve the contract dispute with MEBA. In this 2013 file photo, the Staten island Ferry heads to the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in lower Manhattan at sunset. (Staten Island Advance) New York City Office of Labor Relations (OLR) The New York City Office of Labor Relations represents the mayor in all labor relations between the City of New York and the labor unions that represent city employees, like the ones who operate the Staten Island Ferry. Over the past decade, the Office of Labor Relations has reached contract agreements with dozens of unions, with the notable exception of the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association. Most recently, the city reached a tentative agreement in February with District Council 37 (DC37), New York Citys largest public employee union, which will provide wage increases to more than 90,000 city employees. Though able to reach an agreement with a union representing nearly 100,000 employees, contract negotiations with MEBA, which represents less than 150 city workers, remain at a standstill. The Adams administration did not respond to a request for comment regarding the status of the ongoing negotiations and why the city has been able to reach agreements with dozens of other unions, but not MEBA. A view of the city during the inaugural ride aboard the new Staten Island Ferry, the Staff Sergeant Michael H. Ollis. (Staten Island Advance) New York City Office of Management and Budget (OMB) The New York City Office of Management and Budget develops and executes NYCs budget, determining the amount of funding that will be issued annually to each city agency. Additional funding may need to be provided to the DOT through the citys budget to accommodate the higher wages being sought by Staten Island Ferry workers. In the current Fiscal Year 2023 budget, the DOTs contract budget is $443,425,474, according to city budget documents. Under Adams proposed Fiscal Year 2024 budget, which has yet to be finalized, the DOTs contract budget would increase to $448,776,026, an increase of over $5 million, though its unclear if any of those funds have been earmarked for a higher-paying ferry worker contract. The Adams administration did not respond to a request for comment regarding the need for additional funding in order to offer higher compensation to MEBA members. The Staten Island Ferry docking at the St. George Ferry Terminal. (Staten Island Advance)staten island advance New York City Council The New York City Council introduces and votes on city legislation, negotiates the citys budget with the mayor and monitors city agencies, like the DOT, to make sure theyre effectively serving New Yorkers. In late March, Borough President Vito Fossella and the boroughs three City Council members -- Councilwoman Kamillah Hanks (D-North Shore), Councilman David Carr (R-Mid-Island) and Councilman Joseph Borelli (R-South Shore) -- penned a letter to Adams imploring him to resolve the overnight service issues at the ferry. The elected officials emphasized that Staten Islanders already endure a more lengthy commute than other city residents and have fewer transportation options due to the boroughs lack of a connecting subway. They also noted that many who travel to and from Manhattan via the free-to-ride Staten Island Ferry may not have the economic means to afford other forms of transportation. Staten Island commuters already bear the longest commute in all five boroughs, and the ferry is a vital and essential lifeline for thousands of them, they wrote. Some of our ferry commuters may tend to be individuals of limited means or who have family situations that make working irregular shifts a necessity. For these commuters, the option of taking an express bus or an Uber might not be economically feasible. The elected officials acknowledged the complex nature of the ongoing service reductions, but posited that the city would be working harder to resolve those issues if the disruptions were affecting any of the other boroughs. While we fully understand that there are complexities and multiple issues involved in restoring full ferry service, including budgetary concerns, maintenance, staffing, safety, and labor personnel shortages, we also understand that each of these issues falls within the ability of the City to resolve, they wrote. If there were such frequent disruptions on a major subway line in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, or the Bronx, there would undoubtedly be a citywide focus on resolving the matter, they added. Hanks told the Advance/SILive.com she has expressed interest in holding an oversight hearing that would require DOT officials to testify on the ongoing service reductions and what is being done to alleviate the staffing shortage, though its unclear if and when that may happen. As an essential form of transportation for all Staten Islanders, this is a matter we will work on to address expeditiously. Our office has conveyed our desire to have an open and transparent oversight hearing regarding this matter within the Committee on Transportation, Hanks said. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. In remembrance of those who have died, here is a collection of obituaries posted on SILive.com. Viewing times and guestbooks can be found here. Constance Connie Conti, 81, passed away on May 28, 2023. Raised in Port Richmond with her four siblings, Connie attended Port Richmond High School and shortly after married her husband of 62 years, Nicholas Nick Conti on July 23, 1960. Connie is the beloved mother of four children, grandmother of nine grandchildren, and great-grandmother of six with one on the way. She worked as a legal secretary in Manhattan for many years. She loved to spend time with family, to crochet, to sew, and to travel. For the full obituary, click here. Joseph Aguanno, 96, passed away on April 1, 2023 at home in Riverdale, N.Y. In the early 1930s, he and his family moved to Johnstown, P.A. from Brooklyn. Upon graduation from Johnstown High School in 1944, he joined the Navy in December of that year, was stationed on the USS Montour, and served in the Pacific. After the war, Joe returned to New York City, where he worked for First National City Bank of New York, then Bradford Trust Company, and finally retiring from Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company. In 1950, he married Gilda Istrico and started a family; in 1963, the family moved to Eltingville and resided there until retiring in 1995 to Mays Landing, N.J. In 2015, Joe and Gilda relocated to Riverdale. He is survived by his children and sister. For the full obituary, click here. Edward Joseph Kopczynski, died peacefully in his sleep on Saturday May 6, 2023. Born in 1937 in Brooklyn, Ed served two years in the Navy before working on Wall Street for various financial firms. He played the accordion for all his life, his children following his example, playing the accordion and developing a lifelong love of music. Ed and his wife, Carol, loved to travel. He was a devoted member of the church of St. Joseph, St. Thomas and St. John Neumann Parish in Staten Island. He was an elder of the parish, a Eucharistic minister, and a Knight of the Holy Sepulcher in Rome. After an unfortunate fire, he helped fundraise to rebuild St. Thomas Church. For the full obituary, click here. MaryEllen Myers Mackintosh, passed away May 28, 2023. Wife of the late William T. Mackintosh, to who she was married for 55 years. MaryEllen worked in the insurance industry for over 35 years. She was an avid bowler, bowling at Rabs and participating in the Sunday Family League and the Manic Monday Ladies League. MaryEllen also helped run the 50/50 for the Tuesday and Thursday Senior mens league. She is remembered as a loving, funny, and giving soul. For the full obituary, click here. George J. Pedersen, 87, of McLean, Virginia, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2023. Raised in Princes Bay, George graduated in 1953 from Henry Snyder High School in Jersey City, N.J. From there he began his first job at Vitro Corporation in NYC. It was at Vitro Labs in New Jersey that he met his wife of 61 years, Marilyn (Ames) Pedersen. He attended Jersey City Junior College and Rutgers University majoring in finance, and then studied at Fordham University in government contracting and negotiation. While attending night classes, he spent six years in the Army reserves; and In 1961, at the age of 26, he married Marilyn. In 1968, George and a coworker started ManTech, landing their first contract to provide modeling and simulation solutions for the U.S. Navy. George supported his community of Morris Plains, N.J. at night and on weekends as a volunteer firefighter. From 1968 until his retirement in 2022, George was at the helm of ManTech for more than 50 years. Among numerous philanthropic endeavors, George established the ManTech Special Assistance Fund to help employees who experienced significant unexpected financial hardships. His love of the ManTech family was second only to the love of his own family. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. For the full obituary, click here. Regina C. Pepe (nee Grogan), 96, of Concord, passed away May 29, 2023. Beloved wife of the late Domenic T., she was a cherished mother, grandmother, aunt, and Godmother. For the full obituary, click here. YESTERDAYS OBITUARIES Laurel A. Devoti-Reuss, 81, passed away on May 27, 2023 after a long and brave battle with Lewy Body Dementia. Born in Fort Wadsworth and raised in Rosebank, she attended New Dorp High School. After high school, she studied art on her own, continuing to develop her skills while being married and raising three children. Locally, she was known for her illustrations in Spotlight, a local public school newsletter. She regularly displayed her works at Snug Harbor and other venues on the island, while her floral works were featured in the windows of Bergdorf Goodman in Manhattan. She taught art to young students at Augie Napolis Studio in Oakwood, was a member of The Artists Federation, and was an active member of the Salmagundi Club since 1999. As a member of the Salmagundi Club, she won awards and sold many pieces. In 2014, she had a one woman show at the Salmagundi Club titled: Laurel Devoti Reuss Oils and Pastels. Laurel lived near her cherished loving family where she continued to create art until the end of her life. For the full obituary, click here. Thank you for visiting the Daily Journal. Please purchase an Enhanced Subscription to continue reading. To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account. We offer one free story view per month. If you register for an account, you will get two additional story views. After those three total views, we ask that you support us with a subscription. A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much! Department 1 Judge Kriston Hill May 15 James Michael Huskey, 56, pleaded no contest to attempted burglary of a motor vehicle and was sentenced to 12-30 months in prison. May 17 James Clay Adams, 46, pleaded guilty to possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance and was sentenced to 12-30 months in prison. Department 2 Judge Al Kacin May 11 Taylor Marie Brummet, 29, pleaded guilty to possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance, was given a suspended sentence of 12-32 months in prison, was placed on probation for 18 months, and was ordered to complete inpatient treatment program for substance abuse. May 15 Lanna Denice Walthers, 60, pleaded guilty to driving under the influence with two or more prior convictions, was sentenced to 16 to 40 months in prison, and was ordered to pay a $2,000 fine. May 22 Kyle Keith Martin, 31, pleaded guilty to one count of eluding a police officer in a manner posing danger to persons or property and one count of grand larceny of a motor vehicle and was sentenced to 40 to 100 months in prison. - Victor Lara Ruiz, 40, pleaded no contest to conspiracy to commit theft, was sentenced to 270 days in jail and was ordered to pay $1,950 restitution to the victim. Department 3 Judge Mason Simons May 23 Michelle Arlette Bruner, 55, pleaded no contest to attempted neglect of an older or vulnerable person, was given a suspended sentence of 12 to 30 months in prison, was placed on probation for two years and was ordered to serve 60 days in jail. - Camden Joseph Clark, 33, pleaded no contest to possession of personal identifying information for the purpose of making fictitious checks, was given a suspended sentence of 24-60 months in prison, was placed on probation for two years and was ordered to pay $308.38 extradition costs to the West Wendover Police Department. - Chase Albert Grant, 40, pleaded no contest to possession of a Schedule I or II controlled substance and was placed on probation for 18 months and was ordered to complete treatment at the Odyssey House. - Cortney Ann Keefer, 30, pleaded no contest to conspiracy to commit possession of a stolen motor vehicle, was sentenced to 80 days in jail and was ordered to pay $316.25 extradition costs to the Nevada Office of the attorney general. - Joseph Andrew Morris, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a credit or debit card without cardholders consent and one count of unlawful taking of a motor vehicle and was sentenced to 19 to 48 months in prison, one year in jail, and was ordered to pay $2,325 extradition costs to the Nevada Office of the Attorney General. - John Preston Stratz, 33, pleaded no contest to grand larceny of a motor vehicle, was sentenced to 24-60 months in prison and was ordered to pay $6,349 restitution to the victims. Just how heavy-handed the governor will be with his vetoes remains to be seen, but if the last legislative session during a divided government is any indication, a significant number of bills are likely to die on his desk in the coming week. (Photo: Richard Bednarski) Policy, politics and progressive commentary Near unanimous bipartisan support didnt deter Gov. Joe Lombardo from vetoing two bills that passed largely unnoticed through the Nevada State Legislature. The Republican governor on Monday vetoed Assembly Bill 265 and Assembly Bill 223 which dealt with mental health and debt collection, respectively. The Legislature is not expected to reconsider either bill in an attempt to override the veto, despite both bills having originally passed with a constitutional majority. In Nevada, the Legislature can override a governor with a two-thirds vote. Democrats have that supermajority in the Assembly but are one shy in the Senate, so they would need one Republicans support. AB 265 and AB 223 mark the fourth and fifth veto of this years legislative session, which as of late Tuesday has seen 100 bills signed by the governor and one bill that became law without the governor signing. The first three bills Lombardo vetoed were all related to gun control and passed on party lines. All five vetoed bills have been referred to the chief clerks desk, which essentially serves as a legislative hospice for doomed bills. Additional vetoes are expected this legislative session, which is scheduled to end on June 5. As of late Tuesday, just over 100 bills were listed as in the governors office awaiting action. They include the state budget bills, which Lombardo has threatened to veto. Lombardo has said his priorities are a fiscally responsible budget, school safety, school choice and accountability, government efficiency and crime reduction. Just how heavy-handed Lombardo will be with his vetoes remains to be seen, but if the last legislative session held by a divided government is any indication, a significant number of bills are likely to die on his desk in the coming week. Across two legislative sessions, Democratic Gov. Steve Sisolak in 2019 and 2021 vetoed just seven bills sent to him by a Democratic-controlled Legislature. Similarly, Republican Gov. Brian Sandoval in 2015 vetoed seven bills sent to him by a Republican-controlled Legislature. But two years later, after Democrats regained control of the Legislature, Sandoval vetoed 41 bills the second highest veto total in Nevada history. None of Sandovals vetoes in 2017 were overridden. That year, the Democrats controlled both houses but not by a supermajority. The honor of bestowing upon the legislature the most vetoes during a single session belongs to Republican Gov. Jim Gibbons, who in 2009 vetoed 49 bills. About half of those were overridden by the Legislature. Statewide consortium canned AB 265 would have created a statewide childrens mental health consortium that would have brought together Nevadas three existing regional consortia. The bill received unanimous support in both chambers. It passed the Assembly 42-0 on May 22 and the Senate 20-0 on April 25. Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro was excused from her chambers vote. According to his veto letter, Lombardo took issue with the bills lack of a fiscal note. He pointed to a similar bill considered during the 2021 session that included a fiscal note submitted by the Division of Child and Family Services within the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services. At that time, DCFS estimated they would need approximately $200,000 over a biennium to implement the bill. Most of that cost would have gone toward hiring one full time health program specialist. Dan Musgrove, the past chair of the Clark County Childrens Mental Health Consortium who helped present the bill with sponsor Democratic Assemblywoman Michelle Gorelow, said in a March hearing for SB 265 that the 2021 fiscal note is what led to that years bill not moving forward. Lombardo in his veto letter also said the statewide consortium would add an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy. The primary issue plaguing our mental health crisis, the letter concluded, is that we do not have enough beds to adequately serve those struggling with mental illness. Debt collection bill canceled AB 223 would have strengthened consumer protections for people with debt held by collection agencies. The bill would have required the agencies to provide, upon request of the debtor, a letter explaining what is owed, including a breakdown of the principal balance, the amount of interest and fees being assessed, and how the interest and fees were calculated. Collection agencies would also have been required to provide a letter stating that a debt has been satisfactorily paid. Under the provisions of the bill, a debtor could file a civil lawsuit against an agency that failed to provide a payoff or satisfaction letter. AB 225 was approved by the Senate on May 22 in a 20-0 vote, with Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro excused. In the Assembly, it passed 38-2, with Republican Assemblywomen Jill Dickman and Danielle Gallant opposed and Democrats Cecilia Gonzalez and Clara Thomas were excused. In his veto letter, Lombardo called the bill well intended but took issue with the provision allowing a debtor to take civil action against a debt collection agency. He contended that established claims processes through the Financial Institutions Division and the Department of Business Industry are less expensive and more streamlined than traditional litigation. Democratic Assembly members Max Carter and Natha Anderson sponsored AB 223. Eleven other lawmakers signed on as cosponsors, including Republican Assemblyman Gregory Koenig. Not surprisingly, given the gutting of its capacity to monitor whats being published on the platform, there has been a significant increase in false and misleading information, fake accounts, bot activity and extreme speech. Musk has responded in the past when challenged on the extent to which conspiracy theories, disinformation, hate speech and foreign state-sponsored propaganda have flourished on the platform since he acquired it by pointing to the community notes feature, where users submit corrections and amplifications to suspect tweets. That wont, however, be sufficient to comply with the looming EU legislation. If Twitter doesnt, or cant, meet the requirements of the DSA it could either be banned from offering its service within the European Union or fined up to 6 per cent of its global annual revenues, which are estimated to be around $US3 billion ($4.5 billion). That would equate to a fine of about $US180 million. Its unclear how many users Twitter has in Europe, although its designation as a very large online platform means it has at least 45 million monthly active users in the region. Given that worldwide Twitter has roughly 400 million active monthly users, that is a significant slab of its user base and commercial value. Musk hasnt commented on the decision to withdraw from the disinformation code although, as a self-described free-speech absolutist, it isnt surprising that he would be uncomfortable complying with the EUs code, or the DSA, even if Twitter had the capabilities to do so. The threatened banning of Twitter, however, might give him pause for thought. Earlier this year, in the lead up to Turkeys recent election, Twitter announced that it was restricting access to some content for users in Turkey (while leaving it visible to users elsewhere) in response to legal process. It has similarly censored content in India at the behest of the Indian government. Musk has defended the decision to restrict access to content in Turkey on the basis that he was faced with the choice of having Twitters Turkish content throttled in its entirety or limiting access to some tweets. He now confronts a similar but far more consequential choice at a delicate time for a business whose viability remains questionable. US funds management giant Fidelity was one of Musks equity partners when he acquired Twitter for $US44 billion, using $US25 billion of his own money, last year. It contributed a modest $US20 million of equity. Since November, Fidelity has been consistently writing down the value of its Twitter stake and, in a recent filing, reduced it to only $US6.55 million, or less than a third of what it originally invested. That implies the original $US33.5 billion of equity that Musk and others contributed to the acquisition funding is now worth only about $US11 billion, and Musks stake a little over $US8 billion. Thats materially lower than Musks own $US20 billion valuation of the business in a memo to staff earlier this year; a valuation used for an issue of stock-related compensation for employees. While Musk recently said the business was trending towards a cash flow-positive outcome this quarter after slashing $US1.5 billion a year from its cost base, its efforts to generate subscription revenues to offset the loss of more than $US1 billion of advertising revenues (as companies distanced themselves from the new Twitters content) has been less than successful. Loading Losing more than 10 per cent of its user base in one stroke of a pen if the EU bans the platform would inevitably have significant financial consequences and implications for the value of a business that has $US13 billion of debt, which burdens it with $US1.5 billion a year in interest costs. Musks saving grace is that the value of Tesla, his primary source of wealth, has bounced back after being initially savaged as his preoccupation with acquiring Twitter became apparent last year. After losing 65 per cent of its value late last year, Tesla shares have since recovered and are now only just over a third below their Twitter pre-acquisition levels. Thats a potential source of further equity for Twitter, should Musk or his bankers need it. If the platform is shut out of Europe, that need might well arise. Ever since Bob Katter delivered his viral, snarling rant about crocodile attacks in North Queensland, the veteran MP has become more meme than politician. Bob Katter... More meme than MP, and now #content for Ladbrokes. Credit: John Shakespeare To a certain kind of young-ish white collar urban professional, who might otherwise baulk at Katters real views on things like immigration and LGBT issues, the so-called Father of the House is a funny old bloke in a big hat. And that makes him very marketable content. The latest step in the memeification of BobKatter is brought to you by Ladbrokes, with the member for Kennedy narrating a social media clip on the life and times of Maroons coach and fellow North Queenslander Billy Slater. Dropped just in time for Wednesday nights State of Origin opener (played inexplicably in Adelaide), the video looks an awful lot like advertising for the betting company, although were assured Katter didnt get a cent for his voice-over work. Still, the irony wasnt lost on us that Katters crossbench colleagues and the Liberals are pushing for a crackdown on gambling advertising. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size For almost exactly a year, Australia watched as a parade of current and former special forces soldiers known only by their pseudonyms trooped into the Federal Court in Sydney to give evidence in the defamation trial of the century. Claiming to have had his life ruined by six articles published by The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Canberra Times, Australias most decorated living soldier, Victoria Cross and Medal of Gallantry winner Ben Roberts-Smith, was seeking to clear his reputation. He said the stories wrongly accused him of unlawfully killing prisoners during the Afghan conflict. The newspapers sought to prove that the reports published between June and August 2018, were, in the legal phrase, substantially true. For 14 COVID-interrupted weeks the court under Justice Anthony Besanko heard the defamation trial at an estimated cost of $25 million to the parties. There were 110 days of evidence, 41 witnesses, 6186 pages of transcript, 267 tender items, 125 subpoenas issued, 63 notices to produce and 36 interim judgments. Most of the witnesses for and against Roberts-Smith were former Special Air Services soldiers. All were given pseudonyms to protect their identities. The main judgment ruling on the question of whether the newspapers defamed the war hero, or if he is, in fact, a war criminal was handed down on Thursday, June 1, 2023. The judge found overwhelmingly for the newspapers, finding Roberts-Smith was, on the balance of probabilities, a murderer, a war criminal, a bully and a disgrace to his country and the Australian military. Advertisement So what were the key allegations in the case? Why did it cost so much and go so long? And why did this masthead go to so much trouble for the story? What did the articles say Roberts-Smith did? The three news outlets original pleadings in the case alleged that Roberts-Smith directly murdered, or was complicit in the murder of, six Afghan prisoners. They acknowledged during the case that one of these alleged murders could not be proven because the soldier concerned would not give evidence on the grounds he might incriminate himself. Under the laws of war, Australian soldiers were not allowed to kill a person who was disarmed and under control, even if they were the most dangerous Taliban fighter in Afghanistan. Murder 1: The articles reported that Roberts-Smith kicked an unarmed and handcuffed Afghan villager named Ali Jan off a small cliff in the village of Darwan on September 11, 2012, before he ordered two other soldiers to drag the man under a tree. There, according to one of the two soldiers, the man was stood up and then shot dead. The victim, they say, was a farmer. Roberts-Smith told the court there was no cliff and no kick. The man in question was a suspected Taliban spotter reporting on the movement of coalition forces, he said, and he and another soldier had lawfully fired shots at the man in a cornfield. The judge ruled the newspapers report to be true. Murders 2 and 3: The articles say that, on a mission three years earlier on Easter Sunday, 2009, two Afghan men were discovered in a tunnel in a compound dubbed Whiskey 108. They allege the men were made prisoners and then Roberts-Smith killed one of them himself and directed a rookie soldier to kill the second as a form of blooding, or initiation. Roberts-Smith and his witnesses say no one was found in the tunnel, but instead that two insurgents, not prisoners, were killed in action outside the Whiskey 108 compound, one of them by Roberts-Smith himself. Nobody disputes that the man Roberts-Smith killed had a prosthetic leg, nor that the leg was souvenired by another soldier and used as a drinking vessel called Das Boot at the SAS base. Roberts-Smith described this during the trial as gallows humour. The judge found the newspapers had proven both these murders took place. Advertisement Murder 4: The newspapers said in court that in 2012 Roberts-Smith also directed an Afghan soldier, via an interpreter, to shoot another prisoner or direct one of his subordinates to do it. Roberts-Smith denied giving that direction. A number of witnesses for Roberts-Smith at the trial all said the Afghan soldier could not have been there because he had been stood down after shooting a dog. These witnesses later conceded this alibi evidence was wrong. The judge found the murder proven. Incident 5: The newspapers alleged that Roberts-Smith directed a soldier to kill an Afghan prisoner in 2012 in another blooding incident in a place called Syahchow. This allegation hit an evidentiary roadblock and was not further explored after the soldier who allegedly pulled the trigger objected to giving evidence on the grounds of self-incrimination. The judge found this allegation was not established. Incident 6: The newspapers allege Roberts-Smith shot a young Afghan prisoner in 2012 in a place called Fasil, and boasted to a fellow soldier that it was the most beautiful thing Ive ever seen. A former SAS soldier gave evidence that Roberts-Smith had told him that he had shot a baby-faced prisoner in the head. Another soldier denied this, saying during the trial the prisoner had instead been released unharmed. The judge found this allegation was not established. Roberts-Smiths case was that all the soldiers and former soldiers who gave evidence against him were motivated by enormous jealousy because of his medals, or were so traumatised by war as to be confused. As one of his silks, Arthur Moses, SC, put it: the sensationalist publications were based on rumour, hearsay and contradictory accounts from jealous and obsessed former colleagues, including politician and former SAS officer Andrew Hastie. The mastheads made another allegation too: that Roberts Smith punched a woman, with whom he was having an extramarital affair, in the face following a dinner in Parliament House in Canberra after she embarrassed him by falling down stairs while drunk and bumping her head. Advertisement Roberts-Smith rejected the allegation, and a former Army officer at the dinner gave evidence that he saw the woman fall and sustain a very large haematoma on the left side of her forehead above her eye. The judge said there was not enough reliable evidence that the assault had occurred but that, because Roberts-Smiths reputation had been so damaged by the other findings that he was a murderer and war criminal, that did not matter. Why did the case go so long and cost so much? To bring a defamation claim, Roberts-Smith needed only to prove that his reputation had been damaged. This was an easy hurdle to cross. Then the onus was on the newspapers to prove the truth of the imputations that an ordinary reasonable reader might draw from the reports. Proving truth is a defence under defamation law. The 15 imputations pleaded were that the reporting suggested Roberts-Smith authorised the executions of unarmed Afghani civilians, bullied a colleague and committed an act of domestic violence, among others. To meet the substantial truth test, the media called 26 first-hand witnesses to give evidence and face cross-examination. Roberts-Smith called 15 witnesses to refute them. Many of the witnesses were soldiers or ex-soldiers, but there were also three Afghan villagers who gave evidence via video link from Kabul, amid the Taliban advance in August 2021. All three said they had witnessed the kick at Darwan. At one point the link went down when the Kabul law offices generator ran out of diesel. The efforts made to prove the truth of the case have led some people to refer to the case as a de facto war crimes trial, even though it was a civil case, not a criminal case. In fact, the Commonwealth government set up a separate prosecutor, the Office of the Special Investigator, to look at a criminal war crimes case, including against Roberts-Smith. That offices investigators sat through the defamation hearings to listen to evidence, and to protect the interests of the Commonwealth. As the defamation case is a civil case, the newspapers success meant most of the imputations were proven on the balance of probabilities, not to the criminal standard of beyond reasonable doubt. Its hard to strictly define this test, but a 2012 Victorian Court of Appeal decision said the standard of proof must be responsive to the gravity of the facts in issue and the consequences of the ultimate decision. Advertisement As these allegations are extremely serious, Besanko was convinced to a higher-than-usual level of their truth. To pursue his claim, Roberts-Smith and his financial backer, media magnate Kerry Stokes, employed two silks, two junior barristers (one of whom became a silk during this long trial), a number of solicitors and a public relations officer. The commercial director of his employer Seven West Media, Bruce McWilliam, was also in the court for much of the time. The news outlets had three barristers, including one silk, and house and external solicitors. Three reporters covered the story for The Age and Herald, and many more from other media organisations. Why did the newspapers report and defend these allegations? James Chessell, Nines managing director of publishing, said last week that the story was one of the most significant weve ever covered and that the business was proud of the journalism. Loading Not defending such an important matter might have sent a signal that the stories were not true, and have deterred future investigative journalism on matters of public interest, particularly anything involving well-resourced people with big reputations. Advertisement A team of Sydney researchers has become the first in the world to successfully grow tissue from all known types of endometriosis, paving the way for new research into effective treatments and more targeted diagnoses for the debilitating condition. The disease, which occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the organ, affects one in nine women, but symptoms can vary dramatically between patients. Dr Dongli Liu examines tissue grown from live endometriosis cells at the Lowy Cancer Research Centre, Sydney. Credit: Janie Barrett Researchers at Sydneys Royal Hospital for Women will now be able to test drugs and match patients symptoms with specific proteins, after successfully growing 30 different lab-grown tissues taken during surgery. The hospitals professor of obstetrics and gynaecology Jason Abbott said collecting the cells in one place for the first time would allow researchers to accurately diagnose patients, potentially limiting the need for invasive and painful surgeries. South-westerly winds are pushing thick smoke towards Brisbanes CBD, as firefighters continue to control a hazard reduction field west of the city. Queensland Fire and Emergency Service advised on Wednesday morning that smoke was continuing to affect Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Ipswich, Redlands, Logan and the Gold Coast, as they managed the burn at Upper Brookfield. A smoke haze blanketting Brisbanes CBD this week. Credit: Twitter - @minimadclaire The Bureau of Meteorology forecast the smoke was expected to linger across the city, with south-westerly winds pushing the smoke into the inner suburbs. Then, northerly winds from later today may spread the smoke over the more southern suburbs, just depending on that fire activity, meteorologist Brooke Pagel said. Newly anointed West Australian premier Roger Cook has vowed to continue his predecessors legacy of unity and stability while fronting the press for the first time since securing the support of his colleagues to be WA Labors new leader. Cook paid tribute to departing Premier Mark McGowan following his shock resignation on Monday, before reiterating the state governments commitment to keeping the economy strong and serving the people of WA. He said his 15 years as deputy had provided him with the experience necessary to take the state forward. We have led a government that has been economically strong and socially progressive, and this will not change. I want to continue along this path, Cook said. The United States issued a remarkable warning it may need to suspend co-operation with some Australian military units because of concerns their members had been involved in war crimes in Afghanistan, the nations top military officer has revealed. Australian Defence Force Chief Angus Campbell said he received a letter in March 2021 from the US defence attache in Canberra warning the Brereton report could trigger a law that prevents the US military working with units linked to gross violations of human rights. Chief of the Defence Force General Angus Campbell during Senate estimates this week. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen A soldier accused of wrongdoing in the report was subsequently told by the then head of army that this threshold had been met and the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) was being treated as a proscribed unit under the so-called Leahy law. The Brereton report, released in November 2020, found credible evidence of allegations that 25 Australian soldiers had murdered 39 Afghan civilians, and pointed to a disturbing warrior culture that had developed within elements of the special forces. Here is the opposite of a news flash: the Victorian Liberals are a shambles. Did Ryan Smith, a long-serving member who had leadership aspirations, do his leader John Pesutto the courtesy of flagging his intention to resign, thus triggering a byelection in his seat of Warrandyte, before announcing it publicly yesterday? Come off it. Opposition Leader John Pesutto fronts the media earlier in May over another internal Liberal Party crisis. Credit: Darrian Traynor Smith had wanted to be leader after last Novembers election defeat, but after failing to attract enough initial support, he allied himself with Brad Battin against Pesutto in the party room ballot. Battin/Smith almost got there; Pesutto won by a single vote. The closeness of that result set the Liberals on a terrible course. Rather than finding a way to pull together after a third successive election loss and face some hard truths about the rapidly changing Victorian electorate, they are finding new ways to engage in internal battles and damage each other. Now, Pesutto will be tested via a by-election, courtesy of Smith. Hundreds of artificial intelligence scientists and tech executives signed a one-sentence letter that succinctly warns AI poses an existential threat to humanity, the latest example of a growing chorus of alarms raised by the very people creating the technology. Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, according to the statement released by the non-profit Centre for AI Safety. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman was among those to sign the letter. Credit: Bloomberg The open letter was signed by more than 350 researchers and executives, including chatbot ChatGPT creator OpenAIs CEO, Sam Altman, as well as 38 members of Googles DeepMind artificial intelligence unit. Altman and others have been at the forefront of the field, pushing new generative AI to the masses, such as image generators and chatbots that can have human-like conversations, summarise text and write computer code. OpenAIs ChatGPT bot was the first to launch to the public in November, kicking off an arms race that led Microsoft and Google to launch their own versions earlier this year. A lot of people have gotten a little bit of what they want, the bills sponsor, Democratic Assemblyman Howard Watts said. A broad range of people have also been told no for some of the things that they've wanted to get in this bill. (Photo: Trevor Bexon/Nevada Current) Policy, politics and progressive commentary Legislation proposed by NV Energy to expand its production in the state and avoid costly energy purchases on the volatile open market doesnt go far enough to secure an adequate supply of electricity, according to the utilitys CEO Tony Sanchez. The great majority of whats in Assembly Bill 524 already can be done by the utility in the context of the integrated resource planning process. Union officials lined up Tuesday behind the utility to testify against AB 524, a measure supporters say is designed to give customers relief from electricity rate shock and require better planning from the power company. Nevadas Consumer Advocate projects power bills in Southern Nevada will average $470 for July. NV Energy, a prolific contributor to lawmakers, is used to getting what it seeks at the Legislature. A lot of people have gotten a little bit of what they want, the bills sponsor, Democratic Assemblyman Howard Watts testified Tuesday before a joint hearing of Assembly and Senate Growth and Infrastructure committees. A broad range of people have also been told no for some of the things that theyve wanted to get in this bill. I believe this bill strikes the appropriate balance and any suggestion it doesnt go far enough should be looked at very carefully because you dont have the evidence before you, testified attorney Laura Granier, representing the Nevada Resort Association. If you want to give customers relief from the skyrocketing energy rates, he (Watts) has hit the nail on the head. Talks with NV Energy, according to Watts, included stakeholders from labor to consumer advocates, community organizations, conservation environmental groups, customers large and small, and focused on reliability. He noted the Public Utilities Commission is investigating whether NV Energy has adequate resources and is planning properly to ensure the supply of energy is sufficient to satisfy demand and maintain reliable continuous service. The focus of Wattss bill is strengthening the energy resource planning process. What we want is to have public policy that ensures that we are addressing issues of reliability, that were addressing issues of affordability, and that we are continuing to develop clean energy resources, that are vetted through a regulatory process, he said. NV Energy has whats known in utility parlance as an open position, a lack of diversity in its energy resource portfolio that subjects it to market exposure and requires it to resort to purchasing costly energy on the open market. While NV energy can generate a megawatt of energy for about $50, purchasing that exact same amount of energy in the open market cost more than three times as much, Janet Wells, NV Energys vice president of regulatory affairs, testified Tuesday before a joint hearing of the Assembly and Senate Growth and Infrastructure Committees. The utility spent $1 billion during 2021 and 2022 to buy energy on the open market, according to Sanchez. He says $724 million of that would have been unnecessary if the utility had more in-state resources. There is a need to have a strong pronouncement from the state that we need to close that open position, Sanchez testified. NV Energy wants the Legislature to fast-track approval of renewable projects so it can take advantage of a 50% federal tax credit to offset investments on clean energy and storage projects. And if we dont take advantage now, we lose that opportunity, testified Wells of NV Energy. We estimate that every 100 megawatts we build and add to our grid, we will save customers an average of $10 million a year. Granier warned lawmakers to be wary of the utilitys proposals. You will have no idea of what kind of rate impact it will have if you were to accept the invitation to create some directive to the utility or to the commission to close that open position, she testified. So please be cautious if proposals like that are made. Full vetting AB 524 seeks to stem the utilitys penchant for getting what it seeks in short order, rather than abiding by a planning process that takes place every three years. Granier noted what she called a number of unusual expenses that are already being undertaken by the utility. The most recent instance the expansion of a natural gas-generated plant designed to cover demand during peak use, with an estimated cost to taxpayers of $366 million. It was the utilitys fourth amendment of its integrated resource plan since it was formulated in 2021. In addition, that utility recently in the last few months has filed a three-year natural disaster protection plan, pursuant to which it proposes to spend $75 million guarding against natural disasters, she said. NV Energy is also upgrading electric vehicle transportation at a cost of $170 million. If you dont improve that process and allow the Public Utilities Commission to have a transparent, full, thorough vetting of the utility proposals, then you will only worsen the problem because you dont have the information before you to vet utility proposals, testified Granier. And it begs the question why the utility would not just put all of that evidence before the commission for a thorough vetting where the rate impacts can be fully analyzed? Supporters of the bill also voiced concerns about NV Energy evading regulatory approval of capital projects from the PUC by seeking legislative approval instead. Utilities are permitted to pass the cost of capital projects on to their customers. Assemblywoman Heidi Kasama, a Republican, asked PUC General Counsel Garrett Weir for an example of legislative intervention in the regulatory process. Weir cited the 2021 bill to approve Green Link, construction of transmission lines along the west and north ends of the state. NV Energy turned to lawmakers after the PUC rejected a portion of the plan. There were a lot of Field of Dreams analogies of if you build it, they will come, and that sort of speculative analysis doesnt often result in an approval of a plan at the Commission, Weir testified. The $2.5 billion cost of the project has yet to be factored into customers rates. These issues must not be decided with legislative mandates or with short circuits of the Public Utilities Commission process, testified Granier. The Legislature should not give a directive to the Commission to prefer any plan put forward by the utility or to accept any plan put forward by the utility. Any legislative directive that is proposed but circumvents that process or directs the Commission to prefer an alternative could have devastating rate impacts on customers. Many of the charges on NV Energys bills can be directly traced to legislation. AB 524 would allow NV Energy to revisit its resource plan with the PUC at least every three years and more frequently, if necessary. If time is of the essence, it is in their court under this bill to put all of the information before the commission so it can be fully and properly vetted, testified attorney Granier, and avoid unintended consequences like rate shock to customers. The bill ensures that the workload on our Public Utilities Commission isnt too great by ensuring theres only one rate case under consideration at a time, Watts said. He also addressed concerns that more frequent rate cases would allow rates to go up faster. He said phasing in some rates over time, rather than all at once, could be beneficial to customers. The bill also seeks to use a strong planning process to ensure a mix of energy generation sources in the state, and to reduce demand, especially during peak periods, according to Watts. We still get a significant majority of our power generation from natural gas generation. And its those prices that have really pushed bills up, Watts said. The general direction of this bill is lets build out more local clean energy resources and dedicated clean energy resources. AB 524 allows full vetting by the Public Utilities Commission in Nevada, and allows them to make findings concerning what it is in the public interest when setting just and reasonable rates, Consumer Advocate Ernest Figueroa testified. This is a very important component of this legislation and some do not like that. He was visiting a national park when the shooting took place. A helicopter was sent to fetch him from Chitwan, outside the capital, but was forced to turn back by bad weather. Nepals Interior Minister, Ram Chandra Poudel, confirmed the shooting happened as the royal family ate their dinner on Friday night: He first shot the others and then himself. He said the attack was a national disaster and put the death toll as high as 11. The BBC reported that the crown prince had quarrelled with his mother over his choice of a bride. Queen Aishwarya had long been associated in the minds of Nepali democrats with a rigid, outdated penchant for absolute monarchy and social conservatism. Dipendra had made efforts to appear more open to the Nepali people. Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koiralas personal secretary, Birendra Dalhal, reached by telephone in Kathmandu, acknowledged there had been a horrible turn of events. Nepal is a country tormented by multiple crises. Over the next few days any number of possible explanations for the tragedy may emerge. Among the survivors, according to reports from Kathmandu, was another royal prince, Dhirendra, who was critically wounded. In Washington, the State Department said: It is not clear who was responsible at this point. Nepal, the worlds only Hindu kingdom, is a country with 25 million people. It experienced a political upheaval in 1990 when a democracy movement threatened the future of the monarchy, but stopped short of forcing the king to abdicate. It then accepted King Birendra as a constitutional monarch, but there was always far less sympathy for the queen. King Birendra, educated at Harvard, was heir to a royal family that had ruled Nepal off and on since the 1770s. Australias 12,000-strong Nepalese community reacted with shock to news of the shooting. Prince Dipendra visited the city for last years Olympic Games and his open style and willingness to talk made him popular with Australian Nepalese. Devyani Rana, right, believed to be the fiancee of Nepals Crown Prince Dipendra, sits along with her mother Usharaje Rana, center, and unidentified sister, left, in Gawlior, centeral India, in this 1993 file photo. Credit: AP Photo Its very, very upsetting, said Narayan Pradhan, president of the NSW Gurkha Nepalese Community Association. Mr Pradhan, who runs Glebes Yak & Yeti restaurant, said that when the prince visited last year he came with his full royal retinue. He brought a special cook, his bodyguards and security staff and all the other people, he said. He was very simple and talked to everyone. I gave him an Akubra hat and he was wearing it all the time. Mr Pradhan said the royal family was very highly regarded. They are very, very important and we always respect them, he said. Political instability in Nepal since the institution of parliamentary rule had left some citizens and expatriates keen for a return to the past, he said. Many people are very unhappy, he said. Some people think it was better when the king [ruled] Nepal. Christine Gee, who is one of three honorary consul-generals for Nepal in Australia, said the Nepalese people would be shattered by the loss. There would not be a shop or a village house or an office that did not have pictures up of their majesties, she said. Words cannot express how devastated the people of Nepal will be. Ms Gee said she had met Prince Dipendra on his visit to Australia. He was a young man who seemed to embrace life, she said. He was wonderful to deal with and I thought him very easygoing. THE FAMILY * Nepal is a Himalayan kingdom. It has a population of about 22 million, 89.5 per cent of whom are Hindus. MtEverest and seven other of the worlds 14 highest mountains line Nepals northern border with Tibet. It is bordered to the west, south and east by India. THE DYNASTY * King Birendras Shah dynasty extended its rule from its central Gorkha State over other principalities in the late 18th century to form the Hindu Kingdom of Nepal, which remained independent throughout the European colonisation of South Asia. From 1846, the Rana clan took over as hereditary prime ministers, closing Nepal to foreigners until the monarchy, backed by commoners, reasserted its power in 1951. The late king Mahendra allowed multi-party elections in 1959. The liberal Nepali Congress Party won a landslide victory but its leaders were jailed in a palace coup in 1960. Later, the king banned political parties. His son, King Birendra, succeeded him in 1972. A multi-party system of government was established in 1990 after mass protests. Loading THE KINGDOM PHILIPSBURG:--- The Integrity Chamber hosted its first Integrity Symposium at the American University of the Caribbean, under the theme: Building Integrity to Build a Nation. The symposium highlighted the need for building integrity, the challenges that must be overcome, and the importance of doing so collectively. The Integrity Symposium opened with an official opening address by the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, the honorable Silveria Jacobs. The opening address highlighted the importance of integrity being a shared value among all aspects of St. Maartens society and the role that technology can play in building trust and improving the quality of public services. Jacobs emphasized that a nation built on integrity is one where corruption finds no fertile ground. The opening address was followed by an address by the President of the Integrity Chamber, Mrs. H.W. (Rian) Vogels. Vogels stated that integrity is the cornerstone of good governance and essential in building public trust, fostering economic growth, and promoting social justice. Six threats to integrity were highlighted: corruption, nepotism, conflicts of interest, lack of transparency, political interference, and inadequate oversight. Key measures to address and prevent these threats were outlined during the presentation. The keynote speakers, Mr. Dion Abdool of Transparency International, and Professor Trevor Munroe of National Integrity Action, gave informative and inspiring speeches and regional perspectives. Mr. Abdool outlined critical components of the National Integrity System and provided recent data on the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) in the region as it compares globally. In building a nation, Mr. Abdool emphasized the importance of having trust between society and government and the need to work towards our own "Caribbean Currency" of trust. Professor Munroe congratulated the Integrity Chamber for convening the symposium and for their multidimensional awareness campaign to promote integrity. Improved governance requires empowerment of people; the next logical step is action in building integrity, stated Munroe. Other takeaways from Professor Munroes address were that corruption is a global issue that needs to be fought and that there is a lack of awareness of actions that citizens can take to combat integrity issues. Members of the Integrity Chamber, Mr. Rafael Boasman and Mr. Hans Lodder, joined the two keynote speakers for the panel discussion. Questions from the audience ranged from how artificial intelligence will impact integrity, to the role of financial institutions in promoting integrity for civil society, and best practices for public and private sector. Closing remarks were given by the director of the Integrity Chamber, Ms. Charna Pompier, who thanked those involved in ensuring the first Integrity Symposium was a success. The Integrity Symposium can be viewed online via https://www.integritychamber.sx/symposium or via the Facebook or YouTube page of the Integrity Chamber. PHILIPSBURG:--- On May 19th, 2023, the Voice of the Youth SXM Foundation (VOTY) held its 10th Rank Promotion Ceremony for its program, the St. Maarten Youth Brigade. Alongside Youth Brigadiers, Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) and VKS marched to recognize the organization's value amongst the community and celebrate promoting members within the program. The founder, Mrs. Zulayka Peterson, unveiled the acquisition of a bus through the R4CR grant Round 5. This bus was showcased at the promotional ceremony to the public. The importance of the project was explained to all who were gathered on this momentous occasion. For the past ten years that VOTY has been serving the youth of St. Maarten, one of the organization's struggles was providing adequate transportation for the members of the St. Maarten Youth Brigade. Through the R4CR funding, VOTY was able to secure a bus. The St. Maarten Youth Brigade is a paramilitary organization for youth between the ages of 12 and 21. It aims to instill discipline, leadership through military training, and overall life skills. As part of our commitment to providing accessible and inclusive programs for the youth, we will be operating a bus that serves mobility to and from educational & recreational activities, mentoring opportunities, and physical fitness military programs to young individuals within the program. This program would not be possible without our supporting partners: SMDF, SFC, Ministry of ECYS, R4CR, Law Enforcement Entities, and all other stakeholders. "The R4CR program is financed by the Government of the Netherlands via the Sint Maarten Trust Fund. The latter is administered by the World Bank and implemented by the NRPB (National Recovery Program Bureau). The R4CR program is locally managed by the VNGI (International Cooperation Agency of the Association of Netherlands Municipalities) in close cooperation with 4C Foundation and other local partners." We are currently recruiting new members until June 16th. For more information about the St. Maarten Youth Brigade, check out our socials: Facebook: SYBSXM, Instagram: VOTYSXM, or LinkedIn. PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication (TEATT), the Honourable Arthur Lambriex, is fulfilling a pledge from his predecessor to utilize the Dominican Republic as an Agricultural trading portal and is in the DR looking at shipment options for fresh, fruits and vegetables to St. Maarten, in his bid to reduce the cost of food to consumers. Minister Lambriex and his executive assistant Jerome Gumbs visited the Caucedo Sea Port, operated by DP World, on Monday, 29 May. They were given a complete tour of the facility, including the storage warehouses and scanners with new state-of-the-art technology. DP World ships fresh, Healthy Organic Produce at affordable prices daily to Port-au-Prince, Haiti using its vessels. They recently expanded service weekly to San Juan, Puerto Rico. "My goal is to find a public/private partnership model that works for St. Maarten where we possibly subsidize the shipping cost for the Agricultural produce to keep costs down for our consumers," stated Minister Lambriex. He said St. Maarten was not just interested in the fresh fruits and vegetables but also wanted to take advantage of the high-quality Poultry that is available in the DR. "Many big brands such as IKEA, GOYA, HANES, and much more are now using Dominican Republic as a hub for their storage and transhipments to other Caribbean islands and with the DR's vast farmland, and proximity to St. Maarten, Minister Lambriex sees the possibility to drive food prices down if the proper measures are put in place to establish the supply route between the two countries. His visit was a follow-up to the meeting held late last year by Acting TEATT Minister Omar Ottley, who then met with the Agribusiness board representatives to inquire about the Dominican Republic's ability to supply St. Maarten with agricultural products. Minister Lambriex said that St. Maarten would benefit significantly from a partnership based on the current exchange rate, the low labour cost and the vast farmlands, many with already established production. Ten years ago, China proposed an interconnectivity mechanism to cement all-round synergies with other countries of the world interested in joining. This is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has since then evolved as a dynamic integration model attracting the attention of international scholars. The BRI was inaugurated in Kazakhstan, opening a new chapter in its relations with China but also impacting on the entire region of Central Asia. The parameter of geography was vital. The May 2023 China-Central Asia Summit organized in Xi'an was thus a good opportunity to look at the results of the previous decade and discuss opportunities in the future. Trade between China and Central Asian countries, namely Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, rose from circa $46 billion in 2012 to over $70 billion in 2022. Among other things, energy has been crucial. The China-Central Asia gas pipeline connects Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and China. Composed of three parallels that were constructed in 2009, 2010, and 2014, respectively, this artery has partly responded to the growing Chinese demand for gas. Another, the fourth corridor of the China-Central Asia gas pipeline, the so-called Line D, is currently underway. Additionally, the Kazakhstan-China pipeline was established in 2004, carrying oil from Kazakh fields to China. In particular, two different lines the Atasu-Alashankou and Kenkiyak-Kumkol are part of the same project. According to official data for 2021, the former transported 10.9 million tons, while the latter carried 6.7 million tons. China's investments in the five Central Asian economies are also significant. Official statistics demonstrate that by the end of 2022, Chinese foreign direct investments in the region will reach nearly $15 billion. In 2021 and 2022, China was the biggest investor in all countries apart from Kazakhstan. In the recent Summit, the Chinese government expressed its commitment to contributing to development in the region by providing approximately $3.8 billion in financial support and grants. Going further, coordination in the sphere of security has been on the agenda. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Turkmenistan is not, but it attended the September 2022 Samarkand Summit as an honored guest. As a result of the Xi'an summit, the five Central Asian states agreed to pursue active cooperation with China on the Global Security Initiative. Challenges remain difficult, stemming inter alia from instability in Afghanistan but going beyond. Relations between China and the five Central Asian countries in the new era are multidimensional, and Beijing is gradually becoming a protagonist in the area. While these relations are evolving at the bilateral level, the multilateral format provides a different framework that might be fruitful in the future. The mirror of history is always useful in planning the future. Xi'an was the capital of the Chinese Empire for more than a millennium at various times as well as a symbol of its glory. It was also the departure point for the ancient Silk Road. Under the Han Dynasty, it functioned as a crossroads for people of China and Central Asia and as a hub of diverse ethnic identities and religious beliefs. Michael Schumann, board chairman of Germany's Federal Association for Economic Development and Foreign Trade, claimed that in a globalized, internationalized, multi-polar world and economy, we are, to some extent, dependent on each other. He mentioned that there are solid foundations of the economic, technological and scientific relations between Germany and China. Schumann also pointed out that he is very positive about China's contribution to the global economy and a multi-polar world order. North Korea spy satellite crashes into sea Seoul, May 31 (AFP) May 31, 2023 North Korea attempted to launch a military spy satellite on Wednesday that would monitor the United States, but it crashed into the sea with Pyongyang conceding there had been "serious defects". North Korea does not have a functioning satellite in space and leader Kim Jong Un has made developing a military spy satellite a top priority for his regime, personally overseeing some launch preparations. North Korean space authorities said they had "launched a military reconnaissance satellite, 'Malligyong-1', mounted on a new-type carrier rocket, 'Chollima-1'," early Wednesday, the official Korean Central News Agency reported. But the rocket crashed into the sea "after losing thrust due to the abnormal starting of the second-stage engine after the separation of the first stage during the normal flight," it said. Authorities will "thoroughly investigate the serious defects revealed in the satellite launch," it said, adding a second test would be conducted as soon as possible. The South Korean military had earlier detected the launch of the purported satellite, which it confirmed had disappeared from radar and fallen into the sea due to "abnormal flight". It later salvaged a portion of debris, releasing images showing a large barrel-like metal structure with thin pipes and wires at the bottom, which experts said might be a liquid fuel tank. Seoul, Tokyo and Washington all slammed the launch, which they said violated a raft of UN resolutions barring Pyongyang from any tests using ballistic missile technology. Seoul's National Security Council said the launch "whether successful or not (was) a grave violation of UN Security Council resolutions and a serious provocation." Because long-range missiles and rockets used for space launches share the same technology, analysts say developing the ability to put a satellite in orbit would provide Pyongyang with cover for testing banned intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Soon after the launch, Seoul city authorities sent an emergency evacuation alert to residents, prompting widespread consternation and confusion online, before the interior ministry clarified minutes later it had been "incorrectly issued". - 'Tremendous insight' - The recovery of the debris would be very useful for South Korea, experts said. "Technical experts will be able to gain tremendous insight into North Korea's proficiency with large, multi-stage boosters from the recovered debris," US-based analyst Ankit Panda told AFP. Prior to Wednesday's launch, Pyongyang had launched five satellites since 1998, three of which failed immediately and two of which appeared to have been put into orbit -- though signals from those launches have never been independently detected, indicating they may have malfunctioned. North Korea said Tuesday its new spy satellite would be "indispensable to tracking, monitoring... and coping with in advance in real time the dangerous military acts of the US and its vassal forces". Criticising US-South Korea joint military exercises, including large ongoing live-fire drills, a top North Korean military official said Pyongyang felt "the need to expand reconnaissance and information means and improve various defensive and offensive weapons", state media reported. In 2012 and 2016, Pyongyang tested ballistic missiles that it called satellite launches. Both flew over Japan's southern Okinawa region. Japan briefly activated its missile alert warning system for the Okinawa region early Wednesday, lifting it after about 30 minutes. -'Irreversible' nuclear power- "Kim stayed true to his word and launched the spy satellite today," Soo Kim, policy practice area lead at LMI Consulting and a former CIA analyst, told AFP. "We know that Kim's determination does not end with this recent activity," she said, adding that the launch could be a "foreshadowing of greater provocations, including the nuclear test." Since diplomatic efforts collapsed in 2019, North Korea has doubled down on military development, conducting a string of banned weapons tests, including test-firing multiple ICBMs. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un last year declared his country an "irreversible" nuclear power and called for an "exponential" increase in weapons production, including tactical nukes. "Whether or not North Korea's current satellite mission is a success, Pyongyang can be expected to issue political propaganda about its space capabilities," Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul. North Korea spy satellite crashes into sea, Seoul salvages wreckage Seoul, May 31 (AFP) May 31, 2023 North Korea attempted to launch a spy satellite Wednesday but it crashed into the sea after a rocket failure, with the South Korean military retrieving part of the likely wreckage in a potential intelligence bonanza. North Korea does not have a functioning satellite in space and leader Kim Jong Un has made developing a military spy satellite a top priority for his regime, despite UN resolutions banning its use of such technology. Pyongyang had said in the build-up to the launch attempt that the satellite would be vital to monitoring the military movements of the United States and its allies. But the rocket lost thrust and plunged into the sea with its satellite payload, the official Korean Central News Agency reported. It added that authorities would investigate the "serious defects" revealed by the launch and conduct another test as soon as possible. South Korea's military said it had managed to locate and salvage a portion of the suspected debris. It released images showing a large barrel-like metal structure with thin pipes and wires at the bottom, which experts said might be a liquid fuel tank. "Technical experts will be able to gain tremendous insight into North Korea's proficiency with large, multi-stage boosters from the recovered debris," US-based analyst Ankit Panda told AFP. - Condemnation - Seoul, Tokyo and Washington all slammed the launch, which they said violated a raft of UN resolutions barring Pyongyang from any tests using ballistic missile technology. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for North Korea to cease "such acts" and return to the negotiating table. "Any launch using ballistic missile technology is contrary to the relevant Security Council resolutions," he said in a statement. Because long-range missiles and rockets used for space launches share the same technology, analysts say developing the ability to put a satellite in orbit would provide Pyongyang with cover for testing its banned intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). - Panic, confusion - The launch prompted confusion and panic in Seoul, as city authorities sent an early morning emergency evacuation alert to residents and blasted an air raid siren across the downtown area. This prompting widespread consternation online, before the interior ministry clarified minutes later the alert had been "incorrectly issued". "I was taking my two young children to a basement parking lot as advised, in shock," a 37-year-old father who asked to be identified by his surname Yoon, told AFP. But the correction left him "speechless and outraged", he said. "Now no one is going to believe a real alarm, just like in the fable about the boy who cried wolf." In 2012 and 2016, Pyongyang tested ballistic missiles that it called satellite launches. Both flew over Japan's southern Okinawa region. Japan briefly activated its missile alert warning system for the Okinawa region early Wednesday, lifting it after about 30 minutes. - 'Determination' - Prior to Wednesday's launch, Pyongyang had launched five satellites since 1998, three of which failed immediately and two of which appeared to have been put into orbit. Signals from those launches have never been independently detected, indicating they may have malfunctioned. North Korea said Tuesday its new spy satellite would be "indispensable to tracking, monitoring... and coping with in advance in real time the dangerous military acts of the US and its vassal forces". Criticising US-South Korea joint military exercises, including large ongoing live-fire drills, a top North Korean military official said Pyongyang felt "the need to expand reconnaissance and information means and improve various defensive and offensive weapons", state media reported. Since diplomatic efforts collapsed in 2019, North Korea has doubled down on military development, conducting a string of banned weapons tests, including test-firing multiple ICBMs. Kim last year declared his country an "irreversible" nuclear power and called for an "exponential" increase in weapons production, including tactical nukes. Wednesday's failure should be only regarded as a temporary setback for Kim, who will continue to develop his nuclear and satellite programmes, according to experts "We know that Kim's determination does not end with this recent activity," Soo Kim, policy practice area lead at LMI Consulting and a former CIA analyst, told AFP. She added that the launch could be a "foreshadowing of greater provocations, including the nuclear test." High winds halt Spanish rocket launch Paris, May 31 (AFP) May 31, 2023 The maiden flight of the Spanish-built Miura 1 rocket was cancelled Wednesday due to high winds, startup PLD Space said, in a setback for development of the small-scale space launcher. "We have no green light, there are gusts of wind at high altitude above our limits. That means we don't have sufficiently safe conditions to launch," a commentator said on PLD Space's livestream of the lift-off, which was to be Spain's first. It will be several days before a new launch window opens, the commentator added. Standing just 12 metres (40 feet) tall, the small rocket was to fly 100 kilometres (62 miles) above the Earth's surface from a military base in southern Spain. While that distance would put it in outer space, the rocket is not powerful enough to reach orbit. Wednesday's sub-orbital launch had been slated to bring a payload with micro-gravity experiments, as well as setting up PLD Space's plans for future rockets. "The idea is to learn and to minimise risks for the first flights of the Miura 5", said PLD Space cofounder Raul Verdu, referring to a launcher the firm hopes will place satellites into orbit from 2025. Although far larger at 35 metres and boasting two separate launch stages, that rocket uses around 70 percent of the components developed for the Miura 1. Companies are rushing to develop launchers to address a growing satellite market. Around 18,500 small orbiters weighing less than 500 kilos (1,100 pounds) are projected to be launched in the coming decade, according to analysts from Euroconsult. North Korea's military satellite launch: five things to know Seoul, May 31 (AFP) May 31, 2023 North Korea's attempt to launch its first military reconnaissance satellite ended in failure Wednesday, with the rocket and its payload crashing into waters west of South Korea. North Korea does not have a functioning satellite and leader Kim Jong Un has made developing its space reconnaissance capability a top priority. AFP takes a look at what we know: What happened? North Korea pitched its military satellite as a necessary counterbalance to the growing US military presence in the region. The satellite was called Malligyong, which means telescope in Korean, and the rocket was named Chollima, after a mythical winged horse that often features in Pyongyang's propaganda. The Chollima lost thrust shortly after its early morning launch on Wednesday, plunging into the sea, North Korean state media said. Pyongyang said it will investigate and fix the problems with the rocket and attempt another launch as soon as possible. South Korea's military quickly located and salvaged part of the suspected wreckage, which experts say could yield a significant intelligence haul. Was the launch allowed? Kim's regime is barred from using any ballistic missile technology under a raft of UN sanctions, including one that specifically demands North Korea "not conduct any further nuclear test or any launch using ballistic missile technology". Pyongyang regularly flouts these restrictions -- which it describes as an infringement on its sovereignty -- and has test-fired multiple intercontinental ballistic missiles already this year. It also claims it has the right to have a space programme. But "a satellite launch and a weapon launch is the same technology," Chun In-bum, a retired South Korean army general, told AFP. "A payload with a satellite is a satellite launch. A payload with a nuclear device is a nuclear weapon." Missiles & satellites are the same? Both satellite launches and long-range ballistic missiles "require highly advanced expertise" in similar ways, experts say. Ballistic missiles have internal guidance systems, allowing them to exit and then re-enter the atmosphere to hit specific targets on Earth. With a satellite launch, the rocket simply carries it to an intended height in space then separates, leaving the satellite in orbit and usually falling back to Earth. Surveillance from orbit presents its own technological challenges too. It is doubtful North Korea "has the remote sensing technologies for a proper reconnaissance satellite", Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, told AFP. "However, even a rudimentary eye in the sky could have military uses and would offer domestic political value for the Kim regime". Has North Korea done it before? Prior to Wednesday, Pyongyang had launched five satellites since 1998. Among the five, three failed immediately and two appeared to have been put into orbit -- but signals from them have never been independently detected, indicating they may have malfunctioned. The most recent satellite launch was in 2016. The following year, Pyongyang successfully test-fired its first ICBM. "Satellites launched by North Korea in the past were effectively ICBM tests disguised as normal satellites," An Chan-il, a defector-turned-researcher who runs the World Institute for North Korea Studies, told AFP. However, there is no need for North Korea to use a satellite launch to cover up an ICBM test anymore, Park Won-gon, a professor of North Korean studies at Ewha Womans University, told AFP. "North Korea has fired one missile after another without providing any rationale in recent years." What happened in Seoul? There was panic in the city of 10 million when an emergency text alert was sent out minutes after the launch, urging residents to "prepare to evacuate". It took some 20 minutes before authorities in the South Korean capital retracted the warning, saying it was "incorrectly issued". A 37-year-father of two, who asked to be identified by his surname Yoon, told AFP he had been taking his children to a basement parking lot in panic when he received the retraction. "I was standing utterly speechless and outraged," he said. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon defended the alert, acknowledging while it "may have been an overreaction... there can be no compromise on safety". Amazon settles Ring customer spying complaint San Francisco, May 31 (AFP) May 31, 2023 Amazon on Wednesday agreed to pay $30.8 million to settle Ring and Alexa privacy complaints filed by US regulators, including accusations that employees spied on female customers, according to court documents. The Federal Trade Commission charged Amazon-owned home security camera company Ring with failing to implement basic protections to stop hackers or employees from accessing people's devices or accounts. According to the FTC complaint, Ring's failures in security resulted in "egregious" violations of privacy such as female users of home security cameras being "surveilled" in bedrooms or bathrooms. "Ring's disregard for privacy and security exposed consumers to spying and harassment," FTC bureau of consumer protection director Samuel Levine said in a statement. Under a proposed order, which requires approval by a federal judge, Ring will delete any data unlawfully viewed and ramp up security with features such as multi-factor authentication. Hackers exploited vulnerabilities to not only access video streams but also to take control of cameras to taunt children, sexually proposition people, and threaten a family with harm if they didn't pay a ransom, according to the FTC. Ring will pay $5.8 million as part of the settlement, the proposed order indicated. "Ring promptly addressed these issues on its own years ago, well before the FTC began its inquiry," Ring said in response to an AFP inquiry, adding that it disagrees with the allegations. Amazon will pay an additional $25 million as part of a separate deal to settle FTC accusations that children's voice recordings captured by Alexa smart speakers were kept when they should have been deleted, according to the regulator. US law "does not allow companies to keep children's data forever for any reason, and certainly not to train their algorithms," Levine said. Amazon will identify and delete any personal information it has kept from child profiles that are no longer active, a proposed order stated. Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) XINING, May 30 (Xinhua) -- A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. On Monday morning, a group of nearly 50 Tibetan antelopes was seen gathering by the side of the road at a section of the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. As a precautionary measure, the staff of the nature reserve implemented temporary traffic control to ensure safety. Once the leading antelope carefully assessed the safety of the surroundings, the entire flock swiftly crossed the road and proceeded towards the vast hinterland of Hoh Xil. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. "As weather conditions improved, there has been an uptick in the number of Tibetan antelopes crossing the highway to Zonag Lake in Hoh Xil," said Gyaom Dorge, a staffer with the Wudaoliang protection station of the Hoh Xil management bureau. Over 1,000 Tibetan antelopes have traversed the vicinity near the station en route to Hoh Xil since this year's migration began on April 26, nine days earlier than last year. Patrolling and monitoring along the migration route have been stepped up to ensure the species reach their breeding spots undisturbed. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. A Tibetan antelope is seen in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes prepare to move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Xue Yubin) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes head for the Zonag Lake in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Xue Yubin) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Xue Yubin) Tibetan antelopes are seen in Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) A Tibetan antelope is seen in Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes head for the Zonag Lake in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 29, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Tibet highway in snow in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 25, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Xinhua/Zhang Hongxiang) Pregnant Tibetan antelopes are seen in Yushu Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province, May 28, 2023. A growing number of pregnant Tibetan antelopes are migrating to the heart of northwest China's Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve to give birth, according to the reserve's management bureau. Every year, tens of thousands of pregnant Tibetan antelopes start their migration to Hoh Xil in around May to give birth and leave with their offspring in late July. Under the first-class state protection in China, the once-endangered species is mostly found in Tibet Autonomous Region, Qinghai Province, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their population has increased over the past three decades thanks to the ban on illegal hunting and other measures implemented to improve its habitat. (Photo by Pan Binbin/Xinhua) Editor: WXL Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with a delegation of the Congolese Party of Labour led by its general secretary Pierre Moussa in Beijing, capital of China, May 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao) BEIJING, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, met with a delegation of the Congolese Party of Labour led by its general secretary Pierre Moussa in Beijing Tuesday. Li, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said the two heads of state maintained close communication and reached an important consensus, pointing out the direction for the development of the relations between China and the Republic of the Congo in the new era. China stands ready to work with the Congolese side to strengthen friendly exchanges between political parties and legislative bodies of the two countries, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, and push the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries to a new level, Li added. Moussa said the Congolese side is willing to learn from the governance experience of the CPC, strengthen exchanges between political parties and legislative bodies of the two countries, and promote friendly cooperation between the two countries. Editor: WXL A n industrial materials maker controlled by a billionaire Turkish family is set to launch the FTSEs first major IPO this year, raising hopes a dearth in public listings could be coming to an end. WE Soda, the worlds largest producer of natural soda ash which is used in glass manufacturing, expects to price its share offering by the end of June and join the FTSE 100 shortly thereafter. The company is controlled by the Turkish Ciner family, who have a home in London and own a number of industrial businesses as well as media outlets in Turkey. The firm could fetch a market cap of up to $8 billion (6.5 billion), according to Mergermarket. That would make it the biggest UK IPO since pharma giant GSKs 28 billion spinoff of its consumer health business Haleon in July last year. It comes amid a turbulent time for the London market, in which a suite of businesses including chip designer firm Arm and building materials maker CRH snubbed the FTSE in favour of pursuing a listing in New York in search of higher valuations. WE Soda chief strategy and risk officer Nicholas Hall told the Standard: Despite the challenging market backdrop, were confident of a successful listing. The FTSE 100 is associated with quality and prestige and given that history it seems the right place to list. Investors are seeking quality companies with defensive characteristics. The company is also exploring an offering to retail investors of up to 7 million in shares, the maximum permitted under European rules, in a move which Hall said was because an important investment opportunity should be open to everyone. WE Soda had revenue of $1.8 billion (1.4 billion) in 2022 with EBITDA of $848 million. The company generates five million tons of natural soda ash annually across two facilities in Turkey. Proceeds from the IPO will be used to fund its $5 billion investment into building two new sites in Wyoming, USA, in a bid to more than double production. Glass manufacturing accounted for around 60% of global soda ash demand in 2022. The company is chaired by Didem Ciner, a graduate of the London School of Economics and the wife of Turgay Ciner, the billionaire behind the Ciner group conglomerate, which owns a number of industrial and energy businesses as well as Turkeys highest-circulation newspaper, Haberturk, and operates the Turkish TV station of media firm Bloomberg. Another of the companys subsidiaries, Ciner Glass, was granted permission to build a 390 million glass container factory in South Wales in June last year in a move which would create 600 new jobs. Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets, Hargreaves Lansdown, said: WE Sodas intention to list on the London Stock Exchange is a boost for the City just as the capital has been left reeling from some high-profile names which have opted for the bright lights of New York instead. By describing the FTSE 100 as being associated with quality and prestige, the company has provided a ray of light for London, with the LSEs defensive characteristics considered a benefit at a time of uncertainty due to soaring inflation and high interest rates. The stock market launch of the industrial materials maker will be the FTSEs first major IPO this year, but although this is a much-needed drop in a parched landscape, its still unlikely to lead to a flood of immediate listings due to the still volatile nature of market sentiment. Nevertheless, it brings a wash of confidence to London, and raises hopes that the City can capitalise on the UKs entrepreneurial activity in the sustainable solutions sector. A nearly four-year bribery investigation into the owner of Ladbrokes could end in a substantial financial penalty. Entain said it is in talks with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and admitted misconduct may have occurred. The two sides are trying to reach a so-called deferred prosecution agreement, which removes the threat of prosecution for a company if it lives up to certain conditions. The case is a bribery investigation into Entains former subsidiary in Turkey. Authorities opened a probe into its suppliers in 2019, expanding it less than a year later to look at wrongdoing within the Entain group itself. While the company cannot say at this stage what the consequences of the investigation will be, it is likely that they will include a substantial financial penalty which is yet to be determined Entain sold the Turkish-facing online betting and gaming business in 2017. On Wednesday, Entain said it acknowledges that historical misconduct involving former third party suppliers and former employees of the group may have occurred. It said the investigation includes, but is not limited to, section seven of the Bribery Act. This means a company is guilty of an offence if it benefits by retaining business or an advantageous business condition from someone paying a bribe. Entain said: While the company cannot say at this stage what the consequences of the investigation will be, it is likely that they will include a substantial financial penalty which is yet to be determined. The company cannot identify reliably at this stage the size of any financial penalty. Whilst the discussions with the CPS remain ongoing, the board is content with progress to date and looks forward to pursuing an orderly conclusion to this matter Entain at the time known as GVC sold the Turkish business before being taken over by Ladbrokes Coral in a 3.6 billion deal. It was told about the investigation in 2020 but at the time said it had not been given enough clarity by HM Revenue and Customs. On Wednesday, it said: Since the investigation first commenced, the group has undertaken a comprehensive review of anti-bribery policies and procedures and has taken action to strengthen its wider compliance programme and related controls. Whilst the discussions with the CPS remain ongoing, the board is content with progress to date and looks forward to pursuing an orderly conclusion to this matter. A visitor views paintings of the Song Dynasty (960-1279) during the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) People visit the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Visitors view paintings of the Song Dynasty (960-1279) during the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) People visit the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Editor: JYZ T he 4m a year chief financial officer of Prudential was forced to quit today after conduct that fells short of the insurers standards. James Turner, who landed the job a year ago after a stint as chief risk and compliance officer, is out after an investigation into a recent recruitment situation, but specific details were not forthcoming. He was paid 4m last year, and 3 million the year before. as the number two at the giant insurer, which has been around for 175 years and now has a largely Asian focus. His chief executive Anil Wadhanwi said: Our code of conduct sets out that we expect all our colleagues to adhere to the highest professional standards and behaviours. Turner is likely to miss out on some future bonuses. Lawyers were appointed earlier to look into Turner after concern was raised about certain red flags. Pru would not name the legal firm behind the investigation. He will be replaced by long-standing executive Ben Bulmer, who has been with the business since 1997. Turner is just the latest top businessman to fall foul of tighter corporate governance rules and lower levels of tolerance among investors for behaviour deemed short of required standards. He joined the Pru in 2010 from Barclays, where he was deputy head of compliance. Prudential shares, listed in Hong Kong and London, fell 22p to 1102p today. The business is valued at 30 billion. The Prus statement to the stock market said: Mr Turner will remain available to the Group for a period of four months to support a smooth transition. There are no implications for the financial performance, reporting or operations of the business. Loading.... Its the first of three days of industrial action affecting trains this week. The latest round of strikes come at a time when its half term, and with huge concerts, festivals, the Epsom Derby and the FA Cup final all due to take place this weekend. Unions are now being accused of purposely targeting big events - after previously scheduling strikes whilst the UK hosted the Eurovision Song Contest just a few weeks ago. Rachael Burford, the Evening Standards Chief Political Correspondent, explains everything you need to know about the latest round of rail strikes. Listen above, and find us on your Spotify Daily Drive or wherever you stream your podcasts. T he school run (or walk, cycle and bus) is a part of daily life for families across London. Yet new analysis lays bare the full extent of the pupil exodus from the capital, with some schools facing a financial crisis as a consequence. A study of school census figures by FFT Education Datalab reveals that 50,000 children left Londons schools last year, while fewer than 38,000 joined, contributing to a net loss of 12,000 pupils in a single year. This sharp decline is precipitating a severe funding shortfall for schools, which lose income for each child that leaves. As reported in the Evening Standard, schools such as Archbishop Tenisons Secondary School in Lambeth, Randal Cremer primary in Hackney and St Michaels CE Primary in Camden are shutting due to falling student numbers, while others plan to merge. There is no single cause of this phenomenon, but the main culprits are the cost-of-living crisis, a falling birth rate and Brexit. Housing costs in particular are forcing those on lower incomes out of the capital, especially inner and more expensive areas, while many families with young children left the UK following the EU referendum. The travesty is compounded by the fact that London is an educational success story, home to some of the best schools in the country. But as a result of economic malaise and a government intent on effectively levelling down the capital, these gains are at risk of being lost. That would be a terrible waste of resources and talent. Alarm bells over AI When we think of artificial intelligence we may conjure up images of chatbots offering not always reliable advice. But from facial imaging to health screening, the technology is transforming our world, and is set to do far more. This comes with huge potential benefits but also dangers, and the alarm bells are ringing louder, particularly from those on the inside. Geoffrey Hinton, often called the Godfather of AI, recently quit his role at Google, citing his need to speak freely about his significant concerns over the technology, and the regret that he felt over his part in developing the technology. Another leading voice, Yoshua Bengio, admits he feels lost over his lifes work and warned the technology could pose a threat as great as nuclear conflict and pandemics. In order to ensure humanity can safely harness the benefits of AI, the UK government must join others around the world to construct a legal framework with safeguards in place and ethical training, before the technology gets even further ahead of regulation. Defying the strikes A salute to the Londoners who battled their way into work today, in the face of yet another train strike to hit the capital. The unions ought to be wary of shooting themselves in the foot, as commuters either find new routes or simply work from home. P olice in Britain have a wide remit they are relationship counsellors, playground attendants, debt advisers, dispute invigilators and speaking clocks, called to resolve anything from a flooded street to a neighbour playing music late at night. In fact it is sometimes difficult to work out exactly where the business of law and order begins and ends (the sociologist Egon Bittner once defined police work as something that ought not to be happening and about which someone had better do something now). But for the last decade, amid shrinking budgets, police and government have been worrying about mission creep. Where does proper policing segue into community babysitting? This question has become particularly urgent where it concerns mental health services. These have dwindled as the rate of mental illness in the population has risen, and the police have long been picking up the slack. Mark Rowley, the head of the Metropolitan Police, says London coppers now get a call about a mental health concern every four minutes, and a 2018 internal report found that 44 per cent of the Mets work is mental health-related. This kind of work is a particular time sink too: officers spend about a million hours a year in hospital waiting rooms sitting with mental health patients. They are called on to check in on people who have missed an appointment, get patients into hospitals, and retrieve patients who wandered out of them. Everyone dislikes this state of affairs: it is bad for stretched police services, and bad for seriously ill people who do not deserve to end up in the hands of the law. Although many officers are now experienced in dealing with mental health patients, they are not really trained to do so. Between 2020 and 2021, almost half of those detained under the Mental Health Act were picked up by a police car rather than an ambulance. Patients released too soon from cash-strapped community care often end up living an unsettled existence moving between the police and mental health services creating more work for everyone in the process. Despite endless talk about the need to beef up mental health services, for years nothing has changed. But now matters are at a head. Rowley announced this week that from September, officers will only attend emergency calls related to mental health where there is a threat to life. This announcement has caused a great deal of consternation from mental health services and charities. Without police help, they say, thousands of mental health patients will fall into a vacuum. There are some 1.8 million on waiting lists for mental health support, and among them are people who have been waiting for more than three months these are the people whose emergencies tend to be answered by the police. The Department of Health and Social Care have promised 150m to improve mental health crisis care, but this wont cover it. But sometimes shock tactics are needed. Nothing else has worked. The model for the Mets plans is a scheme in Humberside, where after a 35 per cent rise in mental health calls every year the police finally managed to hand the bulk of the job back to mental health services. In doing so it won back 1,100 police officer hours a month. It is now judged the best force in the country. In a fascinating interview with the BBC, Humbersides chief constable Lee Freeman said he had been forced to make very similar statements to those made by Rowley in order to start the conversation locally setting out firm dates, even if those dates then inevitably slipped. It was only then that enough money was suddenly found to begin to turn the ship around, a phased transfer which in the end took 18 months. Ambulance trusts purchased new fleets and beds were found. Rowleys three-month deadline is clearly over-ambitious mental health campaigners are right that he cant suddenly withdraw services when there is nothing to replace them but if he is using a similar ploy to Freeman, it might just jolt the machinery into gear. Only two per cent of the public think mental health calls should be the responsibility of the police, and deploying them to help seriously ill people might do more harm than good. Social care, particularly for mental health, is in an appalling state. A threadbare patchwork of replacement services, mostly provided by the wrong people, has so far covered this up, but reform needs to start somewhere. M ulan star Ming-Na Wen said she had a love-hate relationship with her own name, as she was honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The US actress, who is also known for roles in the Star Wars and Marvel franchises, said her name had been mispronounced and misspelled so many times throughout her career. In the ceremony on Tuesday in Los Angeles, Wen called for more Asian names on the famous street. We need to just pave this Hollywood Boulevard with more Asian talents, she said, singling out ceremony attendees including Academy president Janet Yang and veteran actor James Hong. James, you continue to pave the way. You are a trailblazer and Im so grateful since (our) Mulan days that we have worked together and were still working together. Wen played the titular character in the 1998 classic animated film, alongside Eddie Murphy, BD Wong, and Hong. She continued: I have to be honest, I have had such a love-hate relationship with my name. Living in America with a name like mine, trust me it wasnt easy. In fact, it sucked. It has been mispronounced, misspelled so many times its amazing how three simple syllables could trip up so many people. In fact, I actually worried about being cemented wrong for todays ceremony. Growing up my Chinese name may not have fit or made me feel like I fit in white suburbia, in Hollywood even or, or even in America. It made me feel like an outsider, a foreigner but it also made me more determined to make it belong. She added that she had been advised by one director to anglicise her name, but she had refused. I guess now that its Ming-Na Wen Day, I made the right move, she said. If they could say Arnold Schwarzenegger, they can say Ming-Na Wen. Wen came to the US at the age of six and lived in Queens, New York, where she learned English and pursued a career in acting. In 2019, she was named a Disney Legend, one of the highest honours and awards given by Disney. The actress received the honour for giving life to characters such as Mulan, Agent May in Marvels Agents of Shield, and June in The Joy Luck Club. Wen also stars as mercenary assassin Fennec Shand in the hit Disney+ series The Mandalorian, and opposite Temuera Morrison in their own Disney+ series The Book of Boba Fett. Her star is the 2,757th on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and is awarded in the category of television. It is located at 6840 Hollywood Boulevard adjacent to the El Capitan Theatre. W hen we think of art and the cities in which it thrives, London, New York, Berlin and Miami are among those that come to mind. Home to acclaimed annual events like Frieze and Art Basel for years, these locations have become known as the cultural hubs of the world, most notably when it comes to art. But what if we told you to add the Maldives to that list? As the blueprint for luxury honeymoons, the private paradise islands, with their turquoise seas, coconut trees and immaculate white sands, have long been categorised as a destination for couples and families to relax, recharge and romance. One innovative resort, however, is taking the lead in building an art and design-focused reputation for the region. Joali Maldives is the first art-immersive resort in the Maldives. Arrival at Joali is via a 45-minute flight in a seaplane / Joali Hitting the sweet spot where creativity and culture meet sun, sea and sand, the resort, based on Raa Atoll one of the largest and deepest atolls in the world, just a 45-minute seaplane ride from Male has set a new trend for the future of art and the realms in which it exists through both its design, character and event calendar. Built by Turkish multidisciplinary design studio and architecture company autobahn, Joali (which translates as joy) opened in 2018, and is styled with artistic detail and sustainability at its core. In fact, its clear that art features heavily across the entire resort. Each of the 73 water-villas built with traditional Maldivian architecture have sky-high ceilings with thatched roofs, artisan wood and a classic neutral colour palette that complements the serene surroundings, while making way for both subtle and statement art. The bed frames are made from recycled coconut shells, some bathrooms feature palm-tree inspired green marble glass windows, and each villa has a wall graced with the pearl, an artwork paying homage to the Indian Ocean. A three-bedroom property on the ocean / Joali Guests are flown into the sculpture-like entrance point to the resort, a wooden structured podium resembling an ocean wave that sets the tone for your stay. The Island also houses a Porky Hefer treetop mantra ray an immersive sculpture placed on a tree, where, should you wish, you can climb up and enjoy a private breakfast. In April the resort hosted its inaugural Art Week with a three-day Imagi-Nature Art Festival, curated by art consultant Tatiana Gecmen-Waldek. Known for lending her expertise to the likes of the Menart Fair in Brussels and Paris, as well as Armani, Cartier and Acne, Gecmen-Waldek tries to get people to be experiencing art instead of seeing art and the festival was an example of this. Mexican artist Aurelie Hoegys fluid art piece, the Joali hammock, is at the entrance to the main restaurant / Aurelie Hoegy/Joali The event was held across World Art Day weekend, and celebrated artists from around the world gathered on the island to showcase their bespoke commissions for Joali, each reflecting various aspects of the resorts environment. Mexican artist Aurelie Hoegys fluid art piece, the Joali hammock, placed at the entrance to the hotels main restaurant X (also home to the breakfast buffet of dreams every morning), was inspired by natural movement and the curves of the island, while French artist Jeanne Susplugas virtual reality experience, Daydreaming, where you put on a headset and dive into the brains activity through your eye movement and various illustrations, launched as a permanent feature of the resort. As did German artist Maja Rohwetters multisensory augmented reality app, Contingencies, and Portuguese artists Studio Mameluca, who collaborated with local craftsmen to make beach sculpture White Terns Birds Nest with natural resources and ocean sound customisation. Joali offer a luxurious beachside getaway / Joali The creativity doesnt stop there. The resorts culinary art is another highlight, with a gastronomical installation at Joalis resident Japanese restaurant, Saoke. Designed by restaurant architect Noriyoshi Muramatsu, a special fine dining experience curated by Le Petite Chef and inspired by the art on display is available at the resort for the next six months. Joalis investment in art is a reflection of a wider cultural movement in Male, in which the citys cultural scene is flourishing, with young artists using their natural surroundings to create unique works. Local artists Hajja and Joule, who specialise in traditional embroidery and exhibited work at the resorts festival, are a testament to this, having homed in on their craft in the last two years. Its an exciting time for the art scene here. Initiatives like this art festival have allowed us to meet and collaborate with international artists and really showcase Maldivian local talent, says Hajja. Its hard not to feel inspired here with all of these beautiful surroundings. With both an art studio and a gallery on-site, Joali is changing the way we experience the island. The Maldives are no longer just the standard for luxurious beach getaways but an artistic retreat championing local culture, all while providing delicious dining, world-class spa treatments (with private massage suites the size of a small London apartment) and the best sunrise views youll ever see. Joali Maldives has villas from $3,300 (approx. 2,780) per night based on two sharing a beach villa with pool on a B&B basis; joali.com ITV has gone into a DEFCON 1 level meltdown after being hit by scandal after scandal. Its divided the networks employees and put the future of its most popular daytime TV programme, This Morning, at risk. The crisis began in March when rumours of co-presenter Phillip Schofield having had an affair with a much younger man started trickling down into the public consciousness. Armchair detectives then detected the discomfort in his normally chummy on-screen relationship with co-host Holly Willoughby. Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield presented This Morning together for 13 years / ITV On May 20, Schofield stepped down from his This Morning position with immediate effect. I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning, he wrote on Instagram. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story. Throughout my career in TV including the very difficult last few days I have always done my best to be honourable and kind. I understand that ITV has decided the current situation cant go on, and I want to do what I can to protect the show that I love. But its whats happened since then the revelation that Schofield had been unfaithul to his wife with a former This Morning colleague over 20 years his junior; the claim that no one else at ITV knew; and the allegations of a toxic workplace culture and Holly and Phil favouritism that has really caused the beloved British institution to implode. Here is a breakdown of how the scandal has unfolded and the key players at the heart of it. Phillip Schofield Phillip Schofield joined This Morning in 2002 / PA Archive Schofields brother, Timothy, was jailed for 12 years over child sex offences on May 19. During the trial at which Schofield gave evidence he took a hiatus from presenting This Morning. But on his return, Schofield and Willoughby seemed noticeably strained and viewers picked up on it immediately. It led to Schofields bizarre statement that their relationship had been uncomfortable. The last few weeks havent been easy for either of us, Schofield told the Sun. My family went through a real ordeal. And Hollys support throughout meant the world to me, as did the support of my bosses at ITV, my editor Martin Frizell and the whole This Morning family, including our amazing viewers. All the while, rumours about Schofields relationship with a much younger man gathered momentum. Schofield was approached by the Mail on Sunday, which attempted to expose an affair hed had with a young runner while working on This Morning. Schofield lied and said no such relationship had occurred, only to backtrack and admit to the relationship via the Daily Mail last Friday. Schofield said: "I am making this statement via the Daily Mail to whom I have already apologised personally for misleading, through my lawyer who I also misled, about a story which they wanted to write about me a few days ago. The first thing I want to say is: I am deeply sorry for having lied to them, and to many others about a relationship that I had with someone working on This Morning. I did have a consensual on-off relationship with a younger male colleague at This Morning. Phillip Schofield at the 2021 National Television Awards / PA Archive Schofield then addressed speculation over when his relationship with the young runner began, given that the pair met when Schofield visited his school. The boy was 15 at the time and had a passion for drama, which led him to ask Schofield for a job when he visited . However, Schofield allegedly said theyd arrange an interview at a more appropriate time. Contrary to speculation, Schofield said, whilst I met the man when he was a teenager and was asked to help him to get into television, it was only after he started to work on the show that it became more than just a friendship. That relationship was unwise, but not illegal. It is now over. At one point, the young runner was rumoured to have let slip about the relationship , telling people the 2020 National Television Awards how he was in love with Schofield. At one particular event, an awards ceremony, Schofields friend stunned his ITV colleagues by, as one put it, declaring his love for Phil in no uncertain terms, the Mail reported. In early 2020, ITV got wind of the affair and said it investigated it, but both parties denied it. An ITV spokeswoman said of the investigation: ITV can confirm that when rumours of a relationship between Phillip Schofield and an employee of ITV first began to circulate in early 2020, ITV investigated. Both parties were questioned and both categorically and repeatedly denied the rumours as did Phillips then agency YMU. In addition, ITV spoke to a number of people who worked on This Morning and were not provided with, and did not find, any evidence of a relationship beyond hearsay and rumour. Shortly after the investigation, in February 2020 Schofield came out as gay onThis Morning. Phillip Schofield came out as gay during an episode of This Morning in February 2020 / ITV / This Morning In the latter half of Schofields bombshell statement, he denied rumours of a super-injunction. He also apologised for lying to his This Morning colleagues and bosses, as well as for being unfaithful to his wife Stephanie Lowe. Schofield was subsequently dropped by his agents, YMU, and has been shunned by many of his old ITV pals, particularly ex-This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes. Hes come out all guns blazing against Schofield but well get to that. Schofield apparently lashed out at Holmes in an Instagram story on Monday: "Now I no longer work on @thismorning I am free to say this. I hope you have noticed that its the same handful of people with a grudge against me or the show who seem to have the loudest voice. This morning IS the best show to work on, with the best people. In all the years I worked there there was no toxicity. You can listen to those persistently loud voices if you like. But the thousands of guests over the years, thousands of staff and crew, hundreds of presenters and contributors all know, it IS a family of wonderful, talented, kind, hard working people. Later in the week, Schofield gave emotional interviews to The Sun and BBC. Here are the key revelations. Holly Willoughby Holly Willoughby joined This Morning in 2009 / PA Wire Before This Morning became embroiled in scandal, Willoughby was off air with shingles. This coincided with Timothy Schofields trial, so neither she nor Phil presented the show for a month. Then, upon their long-awaited return, Schofield and Willoughby were reportedly barely speaking, as insiders claimed their relationship had cooled and issues had occurred. Less than a week before he left the show, Schofield issued his bizarre statement, and outlets everywhere reported how it had taken Willoughby aback. "Holly had to find out from someone else, which must have been awful for her, a source said. She has been so loyal to him. It has been upsetting for her, they have been pretty inseparable for 14 years. They have been through so much together, some happy and some really tough. But now their once super close friendship is no longer." Then, on May 20, Schofield left This Morning with immediate effect, and Willoughby responded via an Instagram story. Hi everyone, she said, Its been over 13 great years presenting This Morning with Phil and I want to take this opportunity to thank him for all of his knowledge, his experience and his humour. The sofa wont feel the same without him. Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby during happier times / PA Archive Willoughby and Schofields seats on the sofa were then temporarily filled by Dermot OLeary and Alison Hammond as ITV got their cards together, only for the whole house to come tumbling down less than a week later. On Friday, May 26, Schofield issued his bombshell statement admitting to the affair, and Willoughby responded by claiming that he had lied to her about it the entire time. "It has taken time to process yesterdays news, she said on her Instagram story. "When reports of this relationship first surfaced, I asked Phil directly if this was true and was told it was not. Its been very hurtful to now find out that this was a lie." Since Willoughbys response, ITV have said that she will return to the This Morning sofa after another brief hiatus, on June 5, in an attempt to save the show. A source told the Mirror : The next few weeks will be a desperate bid to save the show and the jobs of the execs. Fingers are being pointed at the top brass, even though he admitted he lied to all of them. The shows wholesome image is clearly tarnished, but bullish ITV execs are not going to just throw the baby out with the bath water. They are determined to prove that the brand is stronger than any single presenter, and that they can give it a fresh start after Schofield. Another source added : Holly wants to stay at This Morning as long as she can, and hopes to ride out the scandal. Other stars like Stephen Mulhern are being approached to fill in for Phil when she returns. Some are reluctant to go in and face angry viewers. Holly is determined to stay put the only reason she would leave now is if This Morning is axed. She has absolutely no plans to leave. Willoughby returned to present This Morning on Monday, June 5, and began by making a statement: Firstly, are you OK? It feels very strange indeed sitting here without Phil. And I imagine that you might have been feeling a lot like I have - shaken, troubled, let down, worried for the wellbeing of people on all sides of whats been going on, and full of questions. You, me and all of us at This Morning gave our love and support to someone who was not telling the truth, who acted in a way that they themselves felt that they had to resign from ITV, and step down from a career that they loved. That is a lot to process. And its equally hard to see the toll that its taken on their own mental health. I think what unites us all now is a desire to heal for the health and wellbeing of everyone. I hope that, as we start this new chapter and get back to a place of warmth and magic that this show holds for all of us, we can find strength in each other. Eamonn Holmes Eamonn Holmes (Kirsty OConnor/PA) / PA Wire Schofields downfall has made no one happier than former This Morning presenter Holmes, who has been very vocal about his feelings towards his former colleague. Holmes, now a GB News presenter, is one of the few insiders to have spoken openly about the drama since it came to light. He gave a two-part interview to fellow GB News presenter Dan Wootton this week to address the scandal. "My response is hes either deluded or hes lying, he told Wootton, and he has admitted he tells lies and he tells a lot of lies. "And in life, Ive always had this belief that a lie unchallenged becomes the truth. So, although I dont want to stand up to Schofield constantly pointing out where hes lying, I feel I have to. "I often say this to Ruth [Langsford, ex-This Morning presenter and Holmes wife], maybe he believes all this stuff, maybe he did not see what went on actually because theres something wrong with him. But he is the chief narcissist, he is the complete and utter dyed-in-the-wool narcissist, everything is about him." From left: Phillip Schofield, Holly Willoughby, Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes / PA Archive Holmes also revealed more alleged details about the affair between Schofield and the young runner, including how they would go out on Thursday and then spend the night together. Thursday was playtime, he told Wootton, when [the runner] and Phillip would hit the town and then he obviously stayed overnight. There are records to show that he was brought in the next day separately in cars paid for by ITV, he added, citing an ITV cover-up as the reason it was never leaked or stopped. ITV maintain that it wasnt aware of the affair due to Schofield and the runner denying it when they were investigated. Holmes also alleged that there was a toxic workplace culture on This Morning and Schofield and Willoughby favouritism from producers. He insisted that staff preferred working on the show when he and Langsford presented it. "Look I could give you a list of the lack of kindness and the lack of awareness from both [Holly and Phil] about how they would socialise with people around them, he said on a GB News discussion, you just have to look at my phone to see the number of people glad to see the back of both of them. He also claimed that Schofield had neglected to learn staff members names and that many staff preferred to work on Fridays, when he and Langford used to host the show (the pair were later replaced by Hammond and OLeary). Ruth Langsford Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford / ITV Loose Women presenter Ruth Langsford is one of the main players in this feud. She has a documented, long-standing dislike towards Schofield, evidenced by a complaint she filed against him in 2019. Langsford was reportedly furious when Schofield interrupted her while she was doing a live link on This Morning to preview what was coming up on Loose Women that day. In resurfaced footage of the incident, Langsford slammed down her pen in anger as Schofield interrupted her and cut her off mid-sentence. Of the episode, Holmes told Wootton this week: "That was about his rudeness. This nonsense he has said in his statement denying the toxicity at ITV and saying that ITV and This Morning is a happy place Holy God, what planet does this man live on? "People would avoid him in the corridor. He was so rude to the Loose Women and he was so dismissive. "We always had to do this handover between programmes from This Morning and Loose Women about what was coming on next. The Loose Women always felt very demeaned by the whole thing because he was always so rude to them. "I know the one Loose Women star who liked Phillip, and she probably only did so because she liked mixing in circles where she thought would open doors for her." Langsford may not have had a good relationship with Schofield, but Holmes said she was fond of his young lover and still in contact with him. Holmes said he and Langsford used to "look after him and added: "I think lifes tough for him. Dr Ranj Singh Dr Ranj Singh is a former This Morning regular / Dave Benett Dr Ranj Singh, a former This Morning regular who was one of its resident medical experts for nearly 10 years, has also hit out at the toxic workplace culture at ITV. Singh, who left the show two years ago, has claimed he was managed out" after raising concerns about how staff were treated behind the scenes. He wrote on Twitter on Monday: I raised my concerns about [This Morning editor] Martin Frizells behaviour (and the environment at This Morning) with [Managing Director of Daytime at ITV] Emma Gormley. I then found myself being used less and less. I even took my concerns directly to the top of ITV. The culture at This Morning has become toxic, no longer aligned with ITV values, and I felt like because I whistle-blew I was managed out. Addressing the Schofield drama specifically, he said: I didnt know the truth about what was going on with Phillip, but I do know the issues with This Morning go far beyond him. It takes more than one person to create a culture. An ITV spokesperson said in response: "We are sorry to read Dr Ranjs post today. At ITV we are fully committed to providing every opportunity for anyone who works with us to raise any concern or comments they may have. Following a complaint made by Dr Ranj, we appointed an external and independent advisor to carry out a review. This external review found no evidence of bullying or discrimination." Then, two days ago, a selfie emerged of Singh with the runner Schofield was dating. This featured a caption in which Singh called him a stud. The selfie was used to cast doubt on whether Singh had known about the relationship, or was close with the runner himself. Singh immediately shot down such theories, writing on Twitter: Some facts for people deliberately misconstruing an old picture of myself with a work colleague at This Morning: He and I worked together at This Morning. He was 21 when we took this picture backstage at the studio (in 2017). And it was taken as a mutually agreed joke. And, in case it wasnt already obvious, the stud reference is the joke and taken directly from a magazine article at the time not my own choice of term. The ITV big wigs This Morning editor Martin Frizell, Phillip Schofield, Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes / PA Archive There are three key players in ITV who find themselves in the eye of the This Morning storm: Martin Frizell, long-time editor of This Morning, Emma Gormly, Managing Director of Daytime at ITV, and Dame Carolyn McCall, ITVs CEO. Closest to the drama is Frizell, who has worked directly with Schofield and Willoughby for seven years, helping to elevate them to their previous national treasure status. The second post on Frizells Instagram is a video of Schofield on This Morning from 2019. The two presenters dominate the majority of his social presence. Despite Frizells proximity to the scandal, it appears that ITV still back him, with a source telling the Mirror : This Morning has won so many awards, the last thing ITV want is to lose it. They retain faith in editor Martin Frizell and want to move on and look to the future now. But Frizell is facing attacks left, right and centre, including from the former culture secretary Nadine Dorries. She told the BBCs Laura Kuenssberg on Sunday: I think the editor of the programme has some questions to answer himself. During the weekend, when approached by reporters, he said: I think youve got to read between the lines. I think there are some scores being settled. Gormley is also getting heat for allegedly knowing about Dr Ranjs complaint. However, its looking like CEO McCall may be the one who has to face the music. Dame Carolyn McCall became ITVs first female CEO in 2018 / PA Media It was revealed yesterday that ITV executives, including McCall, could appear at a cross-party committee hearing as soon as next week. They are set to face questions from MPs on the handling of the scandal. Two MPs told The Times that they planned to question executives about the way ITV had dealt with the This Morning situation, saying: Im certainly not going to miss the opportunity to ask some questions would you? The refreshed risk of questioning has thrown things at ITV towers into an even greater tailspin, with one executive telling The Times: ITV has handled the whole thing really badly. Staff are in real fear that the whole show is going to be scrapped. ITV maintains that This Morning is not under review and there are no plans for the show to be axed. After her well-scheduled half-term break Willoughby will be back on the sofa next week, but for how long? A 73-year-old woman who took part in two killings on the orders of cult leader Charles Manson in 1969 is set to be released from prison on parole, according to a Californian appeals court. Leslie van Houten is serving a life sentence for assisting Manson and other followers in the murder of Leno LaBianca, a grocer in Los Angeles, and his wife Rosemary, when Van Houten was just 19. Van Houten, who at the time was one of Mansons youngest followers, has spent more than 50 years in prison. The decision reverses an earlier courts ruling by Gavin Newsom, the states governor, who rejected parole for Van Houten in 2020. In March this year, Linda Kasabian, a member of the infamous cult led by Charles Manson that murdered film star Sharon Tate in 1969, died at the age of 73. The Manson Family killed her and three others in a rented house in an exclusive neighbourhood of Los Angeles in August 1969. The next night, Kasabian also accompanied Manson and other members of the cult to the home of Leno and Rosemary LaBianca, who were also killed. Kasabian, who did not take part in the murders themselves, was granted immunity by prosecutors to testify against Manson and four of his followers at their sensational 1970 trial in Los Angeles. All five were convicted. Who were the Manson Family? The cult group called themselves a family / Hendrickson Archive/Naked The cult group called themselves a family and were a commune gang led by criminal Charles Manson that were active in California, America, in the late 1960s and early 70s. Made up mainly of runaways and outcasts, the family established a makeshift commune at a defunct movie ranch north-west of Los Angeles. Who was Charles Manson? Mass murderer Charles Manson Charles Manson directed his mostly young, female followers to murder seven people in what prosecutors said was part of a plan to incite a race war. Manson and his followers claimed they had killed a total of 35 people and buried their bodies in the desert. He was sentenced to death in 1969 for the Manson Family killings and murder of an acquaintance, Gary Hinman. He was spared execution when the California supreme court declared the death penalty unconstitutional in 1976. He died in prison in 2017. Who is Leslie Van Houten? Van Houten was just 19 when she and other cult members fatally stabbed the LaBiancas in August 1969. She said they carved up Leno LaBiancas body and smeared the couples blood on the walls. Now aged in her her 70s, she is serving a life sentence for helping Manson and other followers kill Leno LaBianca, a grocer in Los Angeles, and his wife Rosemary. At her parole hearings, the woman explained how her parents divorce, her drug and alchohol abuse, and a forced illegal abortion led her down a path that meant she was vulnerable to him. Who were the other members of the family? Followers of Charles Manson arrive at court in 1969 / ASSOCIATED PRESS The Manson Family consisted of approximately 100 members who were radicalised by Mansons teachings and driven by hippie culture and communal living. Notable members who were prosecuted for carrying out grisly murders as part of the group include Susan Atkins, who believed Manson was God, Leslie Van Houten, Patricia Krenwinkel, Charles Watson, Bobby Beausoleil, Clem Grogan, Bruce Davis and Lynette Fromme. Who did the Manson Family kill in 1969? Voytech Frykowski, Sharon Tate, Stephen Parent, Jay Sebring, and Abigail Folger were killed on the night of August 9, 1969 / AP The Manson Family killed pregnant actress Sharon Tate and four others, Jay Sebring, Wojciech Frykowski, Abigail Folger, and Steven Parent, at 10050 Cielo Drive. A day later, they murdered wealthy grocery store owners Leno and Rosemary LaBianca. A major police operation across six London boroughs has been credited with helping to bring the capitals homicide rate down to its lowest level in almost a decade. Mayor Sadiq Khan and the Met Police said Operation Denali which focuses on high-visibility patrols and targeted enforcement is succeeding in reducing violent crime in the city. City Hall believes it is working because it is being conducted alongside education and early intervention. The operation began in January 2022 and has been rolled out in Haringey, Enfield, Croydon, Lewisham, Greenwich and Newham. Mr Khan said they were the six boroughs in London where were most concerned about violent crime. While there were 46 cases of homicide across those six boroughs in 2021, that figure fell to 29 in 2022. Across the whole city, the figure fell from 133 to 111 the lowest since 2014, when 95 cases were recorded. Looking specifically at teenage homicides in the six boroughs, the number dropped from 15 in 2021 to 7 in 2022, while a similar reduction was seen across Greater London, going from 30 to 14. Speaking to the Standard, the Mayor said: Operation Denali is a good example of local neighbourhood officers working with specialist teams, working with the community, to arrest dangerous people [and] take offensive weapons off our streets. The good news is Operation Denali has led to more than 1,900 arrests, more than 500 serious weapons taken off our streets, but also homicides gone down in those areas where were using Denali. He added: Weve got to recognise as Londoners that were not going to arrest ourselves out of this problem. Sadiq Khan speaks with media on a visit to Tottenham Police Station / Noah Vickers/Local Democracy Reporting Service So weve got to have a combination of enforcement [being] tough on crime but also education and intervention [being] tough on the causes of crime. My message to young people is very simple. You may think, if you leave your home with a knife youll be more safe all the evidence says youll be less safe. That knife could be used against you, but also, youll probably be arrested after a stop and search, charged, and youll have a criminal record. So if youre worried about your safety, and you cant speak to your school teachers or your parents, contact the police. Sadiq Khan meets a police dog helping to enforce Operation Denali aimed at reducing violent crime across the capital / Noah Vickers/Local Democracy Reporting Service What I dont want is another example of a young person being the victim of violent crime, and its really important we divert people away from violent crime, which is why were investing in youth clubs and youth workers. Weve already provided positive opportunities for more than 150,000 young people. Were working with schools to stop young people being excluded. But its really important that young people recognise carrying a knife, or another offensive weapon, is not a good thing to do. Matt Ward, the Mets deputy assistant commissioner, said: Weve been able to reassure lots of communities about the importance of the work were trying to do to tackle violent crime and weve been able to reassure them that were out there doing this day in, day out, to try and keep them safe. Deputy assistant commissioner Matt Ward / Noah Vickers/Local Democracy Reporting Service He added: Some people make the mistake of thinking carrying a knife will keep them safer it wont. Its probably the most dangerous decision any young person can make, because the moment they pick up that knife and walk out of their home, they are much more likely to end up, unfortunately, either seriously injured, or dead If you see someone whos vulnerable, there are lots of ways in which we can try to support them. So if you think one of your friends is going down this route of course we want you to tell us but actually theres lots of voluntary agencies out there who will work to support them, to try and help them recognise the danger that they are in, and I think for young people, recognising the danger is the most important thing to be able to do something about it. A woman was left in hospital after a man she did not know threw a boiling liquid at her in a south London street. Scotland Yard has now issued a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to, as they continue to hunt the person responsible for the attack carried out more than six months ago. The victim was targeted in Walworth Road, Southwark, near to the junction with Carter Place, shortly before 5.40pm on November 10. Police and paramedics were sent to the scene, and she was taken to hospital for treatment. A Scotland Yard spokesperson said: It was subsequently established that a man - who was not known to the victim - had thrown boiling liquid at her. Detectives from the Mets Central South Command Unit launched an investigation, which has included a review of local CCTV cameras. On Wednesday, the Met released a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to. Detective Chief Inspector Amanda Mawhinney: We are yet to identify a suspect in connection with this attack, and this will clearly be of concern to the victim. We have now released an image of a man we want to trace who we think could assist our enquiries. Anyone who recognises him or has information that could assist us is asked to make contact immediately. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 5659/10Nov. To remain anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Qatar Airways has announced a codeshare agreement with Air Seychelles, the flag carrier of the Republic of Seychelles, allowing passengers on both networks seamless travel to one of the worlds most exotic and unique destinations. Qatar Airways serves over 160 destinations worldwide and connects travellers from Africa, America, Asia and Europe easily to and from Seychelles through its hub in Doha, Hamad International Airport (HIA), currently named the Best Airport in the Middle East. Moreover, Qatar Airways Privilege Club members can also earn and spend Avios at almost 200 outlets at Qatar Duty Free (QDF). Currently, Qatar Airways operates a daily flight between HIA and Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), located on the Island of Mahe, near the capital city of Victoria, with a morning arrival and evening departure from Mahe Island. Because of this new codeshare agreement, Qatar Airways will place its code on Air Seychelles operated flights between Mahe and Praslin and enable passengers to continue their journey conveniently using a single booking. Praslin is home to the pristine Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site along with palm-fringed beaches, like Anse Georgette and Anse Lazio, both bordered by large granite boulders. Passengers can book their travel with both airlines, through online travel agencies, as well as with local travel agents. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker, said: Our strategy of facilitating connectivity to African markets through partnerships is in line with this enhanced cooperation with Air Seychelles. Our two airlines are pleased to work together to benefit passengers with more travel choices and to support the tourism industry in Seychelles. Air Seychelles maintains its domestic network with a fleet of five Twin Otter TurboProps operating between Mahe and Praslin as well as charter flights. The airline celebrated 45 years in October 2022 and won the title Indian Oceans Leading Airline at the World Travel Awards held in Kenya. Air Seychelles, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Captain Sandy Benoiton, said: This new partnership will provide passengers with new connection opportunities and access to unique destinations from both networks." TradeArabia News Service Roman Khimich, researcher of trust and security in the digital environment The National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine has begun studying the feasibility of banning Chinese equipment in Ukrainian networks. As follows from a recent interview with the director of the fixed network development department at MDT, the government does not have its own position on this subject. So far, it is available only to the specialized committee of the Council and, apparently, network operators, whose opinion is now being clarified by the MDT. Unfortunately, we have to state once again that the efforts of the professional community to highlight what is happening in the industry yield insignificant results. Two years ago, in 2021, market participants initiated the process of implementing European approaches to risk management in Ukraine. The author of this article and his colleagues have done a lot of work on translation and adaptation of European regulations. However, less than two years have passed and all this seems to have gone to waste. Since there are no prophets in their homeland, let's look at the experience of initiators of all these bans, namely the USA. A report by one of the American think tanks published in October 2022 indicates a crisis, if not a failure in policy of pushing Chinese manufacturers and technologies out of the United States. According to the document, the US authorities have not been able to create effective procedures for detecting and banning high-tech products created using "untrusted" technologies and manufacturers. Given already three-year delay in removing Chinese equipment from mobile networks, we can talk about failure of the federal government's efforts. The document entitled "Banned in D.C. Examining Government Approaches to Foreign Technology Threats" was prepared by the Center for Security and Emerging Technologies at Georgetown University's Walsh School of Foreign Service. It is dedicated to discussion of results at the policies of both federal and regional (states, counties and individual municipalities) authorities regarding the prohibition of so-called untrusted suppliers, products and technologies. The main source of threats in this kind, as usual, is named China. Content of the report, at least, calls into question both the long-standing rhetoric of United States officials and the actual results of their policies. It turns out that private companies and public institutions of the USA continue to buy products and services from Chinese companies that are included in various "black lists". The researchers identified 1,681 state and local government entities that purchased equipment and services from sanctioned Chinese companies Huawei, ZTE, Hikvision, Dahua, and Hytera between 2015 and 2021. In every state, except for Vermont and the District of Columbia, at least one local government was distinguished by such purchases. Figure 1. Number of State and Local Government Transactions Involving Covered ICTS by State, 2015-2021 (including the District of Columbia) In total, there were 5,700 contracts for a wide range of equipment, including smartphones, surveillance cameras, temperature scanners, portable radios and networking equipment. The study is based on data provided by GovSpend, which tracks purchases by federal, state and local governments across the country. Their combined value was approximately 45.2 million US dollars. The authors of report insist that "while the scale of operations may seem small in terms of cost, it is significant in terms of potential risk. Every piece of untrusted hardware is a potential entry point into a user's network, regardless of its cost." Figure 2. Annual State and Local Government Transactions Involving Covered ICTS, 2015-2021 (including the District of Columbia) The report, on the one hand, contains a number of revealing confessions. On the other hand, its authors carefully balance, trying not to say too much, not agreeing even quite obvious, well-known things in the professional community. Is there a boy? The report recognizes that presence of vulnerabilities in the products of Chinese companies is not a reason to accuse them of having the intention to create the so-called backdoors. What's more, it explicitly states that "no technology is perfectly secure, and Chinese hackers have repeatedly proven their ability to compromise government networks using existing vulnerabilities. These more conventional breaches are in many cases easier to orchestrate than supply chain attacks involving backdoors, and they carry fewer potential economic costs as well. Simply saying, the use of backdoors is neither necessary nor even the best way for cyberattacks. The report points to the risks of using any foreign technology, as the personnel of manufacturing companies who service them are a source of risk in themselves. If recruited by an adversary, employees of these companies can also use their powers to attack computer systems and networks. "Without the proper safeguards in place, any organization that uses foreign ICTS is exposed to these operational security risks," authors of the report state. Recognizing that any products of foreign origin are exposed to the risks of compromise, the authors avoid making their point to the end. As practice has shown, the products of American companies are no different from all others and give hackers enough opportunities for successful attacks. Because of this, the selection of "foreign" products makes little sense. One of the reports fragments is indicative, where in one sentence it is reported that "numerous local authorities became victims of Chinese hackers during the Microsoft Exchange Server data breach in early 2021." The next sentence states that "if the Chinese government or other competitors use foreign technology in this way, thousands of state and local governments could become victims of potentially devastating breaches." Meanwhile, Microsoft Exchange Server is a product of an American company, which thus turned out to be a source of real problems, not potential. Several revealing confessions show worthlessness of the accusations leveled against Chinese manufacturers. "While national security officials often discuss the general risks associated with equipment from Huawei and other companies, they rarely provide details about specific vulnerabilities or breaches related to specific products. Given the lack of clarity, state and local government leaders may hesitate whether it is worth spending energy, resources, and political capital on eliminating unreliable technologies," American researchers confirm a long-known fact in the professional environment. In five years of the "crusade" against Huawei, US government officials have not been able to name a single properly documented incident. Given the virtual lack of evidence of malicious intent on the part of Chinese manufacturers, there is no surprise in the following statement: "Many government organizations do not have sufficient competencies to understand and eliminate such threats, and those that do may prioritize the elimination of immediate threats such as ransomware, and not more abstract risks created by foreign products". The euphemism "abstract risks" indicates the actual absence of proven threats. Money, money, money One of the reasons for failure in current policy of eliminating Chinese products and technologies, the report cites excessive costs. "One major obstacle is that procurement bans can increase the cost of acquiring equipment. Chinese ICTS is generally cheaper than equivalent products from nonChinese companies, making it an appealing option for cash-strapped government agencies. A basic Hikvision dome camera retails for about $90, while similar cameras made by firms in Canada, Japan, and South Korea sell for more than double the price. Therefore, prohibiting the use of this cheaper Chinese equipment and forcing government agencies to buy costlier but trustworthy alternatives drives up IT expenses. Costs are even higher if agencies are required to rip and replace the covered ICTS that already resides in their networks." Local communities in the form of municipalities, counties, and state governments are particularly sensitive to price issues. Many of them, if not the majority, have been in a situation of permanent budget crisis for more than a year and are forced to save literally on paper clips. As a result, the decision to eliminate Chinese products and technologies and related efforts are concentrated at the federal level. Only five states Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas and Vermont have adopted relevant policies. However, as the report admits, "they are not structured for effective countermeasures against the threats of foreign technologies." A separate problem is the lack of experience and knowledge necessary for the successful removal and replacement of Chinese equipment at state and budget institutions. The report acknowledges that "cybersecurity departments at these organizations tend to be underfunded and understaffed (if they exist at all), and those with resources are likely to prioritize more pressing security issues such as combating with terrorism". "Therefore, it should not be expected that state and local authorities will actively replace foreign technologies without federal support," the authors emphasize. Meanwhile, federal support is in dire straits. The only compensation program for the private sector is in its third year. In 2020, Congress approved an allocation of approximately $1.9 billion to compensate for the losses of regional mobile operators caused by the replacement of Huawei and ZTE equipment. Initially, market participants requested more than $5.6 billion, but authorities rejected most of the bids. Now these requests have been recognized as not just justified, but insufficient. It was decided to direct the already agreed funds to operators with a subscriber base of no more than 2 million connections as the most vulnerable category of private companies. Regional operators have not yet received a single dollar from these funds, so they have not replaced a single unit of Chinese equipment. It is worth noting that the current policies do not cover the cost of replacing products from Hikvision, Dahua, Hytera and most other sanctioned companies. If this equipment is included in the program, reimbursement requests will be much higher. "Replacing every single piece of unreliable equipment currently installed on American networks is impossible, so resources must be directed to areas where they will have the greatest impact. (...) "Remove and replace" programs divert resources from other government services, such as education and infrastructure. Politicians must consider the trade-offs associated with this redistribution," authors summarize one of the reports sections. 87 thousand licenses per week Another key problem of the current policy is detailed in the report excessive labor-intensiveness and low efficiency of administrative procedures. The supply chains of high-tech products and services that are subject to monitoring to identify and eliminate "untrusted" technologies are very large and complex. They cover tens of thousands companies scattered around the world, and the connections between them are not always obvious. Equipment manufactured by one company may contain components obtained from many different suppliers and be sold under the brand name of another company. For example, cameras manufactured by Dahua Technology, a Chinese video surveillance company, are sold both under the Dahua brand and under the trademarks of subsidiaries such as Canada's Lorex. In addition, Dahua acts as an OEM for dozens of other vendors, selling them products that are then repackaged and sold under other brands. "Such agreements, common in the technology industry, make it difficult for governments, private companies and other consumers to determine exactly whose equipment and services they are buying," authors of the report explain. The idea life-controlling of a giant industrial ecosystem involves a document flow of an incredible scale. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, which reviews foreign investments in American companies for threats to national security, heard an average of 152 cases a year between 2008 and 2020. If the existing laws against untrusted suppliers and products are followed, the US Department of Commerce must review thousands, if not tens of thousands, of transactions every day. According to internal US administration estimates cited in the report, up to 4.5 million US businesses import foreign technology subject to oversight. If each of these businesses submitted only one license application per year, the Department of Commerce would be required to process up to 87,000 licenses per week. Meanwhile, the Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security, which is responsible for enforcing anti-China sanctions, currently has just 16 positions with an annual budget of about $4.7 million allocated to administer the sanctions program. In the 2023 budget request, the bureau is asking Congress for 114 more positions and $36.2 million. It is not yet known whether the request will be approved by lawmakers. The report acknowledges that federal legislation aimed at eliminating Chinese technology poses serious challenges for the private sector. "It's already difficult for companies to keep up with rapid technological change, and under these rules they risk slowing down or blocking IT projects at the hands of federal regulators. (...) For example, Section 889 prohibits federal insitutuions from entering into agreements with contractors, that use the specified technologies, even if that equipment is not involved in performance of the contract. Thus, this precautionary measure is effectively a procurement ban for both Federal institutions and Federal contractors. Given the costs associated with implementing this order , companies that do not already sell products to the federal government may be unwilling or unable to do so (...) Depending on their structure, procurement bans may disincentivize suppliers from doing business with government insitutions." All this leads to the fact that even federal structures, including the US Army, the US Air Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration, have ignored the mentioned prohibitions amid extremely strong and uncompromising statements. In some cases, the purchases were made through the GSA Advantage portal, an e-commerce platform that declares products available on it comply with regulatory requirements, including inspections by the General Services Administration. It should be noted separately that the current policy of the United States regarding the elimination of "untrusted" technologies from the PRC contains a number of compromises that are meaningless from the point of view of its declared goals. In particular, the so-called Section 889 of the National Defense Authorization Act, one of the key regulations in this area, is not retroactive. Thus, institutions are allowed to continue using "untrusted" products and solutions that they purchased before the law came into force. "Remove-and-replace programs are not a silver bullet for protecting government networks. All hardware has vulnerabilities, and products and services that replace the discussed foreign technologies may contain their own bugs and tricks. So developers policymakers should critically assess the costs and benefits of programs to replace untrusted products and technologies before funding them," authors of the report conclude. It must be said that even the richest country in Western world cannot refuse high-tech products and services from the PRC. One of the consequences of long-term symbiotic relations between the People's Republic of China and the United States was the highest degree of their mutual dependence. Dated in fall of 2022, the report not only testifies to the failure in American policy of technological "decoupling" from the PRC. It clearly demonstrates the difference between European and American approaches to risk management in the field of high technologies. The difference between these approaches was repeatedly covered by national mass media. US policy is based on slogans and simply ignores the facts. The EU bases its regulation on facts, and its design ensures variability and adaptability. There seems to be no reason why Ukraine cannot use EU approaches, especially since the course of European integration requires it. Processes initiated by market participants must be supported by authorities and brought to a logical conclusion. T he full extent of the pupil exodus from London has been laid bare in a new analysis which shows thousands left the capitals schools last year. The number of children moving out of London entirely rocketed in the past year, while the total leaving the state system for private schools or home education in the capital is also higher than pre-pandemic levels. The figures show that more than 28,000 children left Londons primary schools and 22,000 left secondary schools in 2021/22, while fewer than 38,000 joined, making a net loss of 12,000 pupils in one year. The analysis of school census data by FFT Education Datalab also shows that: 2.3 per cent of Londons primary pupils moved to state schools in other regions last year which is more than a third higher than pre-pandemic levels. A further 2.5 per cent of primary pupils left for private or home education. The total number of primary pupils in London schools has dropped by 23,500 since before the pandemic from almost 610,000 in 2018/19 to 586,000 in 2021/22. The sharp drop is causing a financial crisis in London schools because they lose funding for every child that leaves. Many schools, including Archbishops Tenisons Secondary in Lambeth, Randal Cremer primary in Hackney, St Michaels CE Primary in Camden and St Martin-in-the-Fields High School for Girls in Lambeth, are closing due to falling pupil numbers, while others plan to merge in a bid to survive. The plummeting numbers of children in London schools has been caused by a combination of a falling birth rate, families leaving because of Brexit, the pandemic, lack of affordable housing and the cost of living, experts said. There was a 17 per cent fall in the birth rate in London between 2012 and 2021, according to London Councils. David Thomson, chief statistician at FFT Education Datalab, and author of the report, said: The primary age population has been declining since 2019. A fall in the birth rate will make this situation worse in the coming years. Lambeth councillor Ben Kind, which is one of the worst affected boroughs, said: These numbers highlight the reality that many schools across London are reaching a point of financial crisis. The Government must work closer with local authorities and schools to find financial solutions that minimise the threat of closures and all the disruption that comes with them. Nationally the number of children joining primary schools in the past year outweighed those leaving, with a net increase of 0.7 per cent. But in London, there was a drop of minus 0.9 per cent. In secondary schools nationally there was a net drop in numbers of minus 0.2 per cent, but in London the net loss was much larger, at minus 1.2 per cent, the report reveals. The drop in pupil numbers comes after two decades of dramatic improvements in Londons schools, which caused many to be intensely oversubscribed for years. But separate figures show that in the past year there was a 2.67 per cent drop in the number applying for a primary place, down to 87,000. Compared with 2015, when 103,000 children applied, there has been a 15 per cent drop. T he extent of Londons social care crisis was laid bare on Wednesday as new figures showed the capital is short of 28,000 workers. Data published by Skills for Care showed Londons vacancy rate stood at 12.6 per cent in March this year by far the highest total of any region in the country. It comes amid warnings that social care workers are deserting the industry in droves due to poor pay, burnout and job insecurity. Many have sought better paid work in supermarkets or hospitality. London saw a 44 per cent rise in vacancies in the year up to March 2022 as care providers struggled to recruit workers. Across England, there is currently a staggering 165,000 vacancies across the sector. Analysis by Skills for Care, an industry body for social care, found that care workers are among the lowest paid roles in the economy with a median hourly rate of 9.50. Staff vacancies and retention issues in the sector are compromising the quality of care offered to patients, experts have warned. Simon Bottery, a senior fellow at the Kings Fund, a think tank, told the Standard that the price of rent and the soaring cost of living in London could help explain why the vacancy rate is so high. If you are going to increase the number of people working within the care sector, then you have to increase pay. The Government has refused to address this question in any meaningful way. Most people would agree that the difficulty of the job and the skills it requires suggests that it should be paid at a higher rate, particularly given the value it provides for society. A study published by the Kings Fund last year found that nine out of the 10 largest supermarkets paid more than the average social worker receives. Mr Bottery said that poor pay progression was a major reason for many workers leaving the sector after just two years, as well as insecure zero-hours contracts. It is possible that workers would accept a lower starting salary if there was a sense that they would be paid more as they built up skills and experience. But unfortunately, in many cases, that does not happen. There are some career development opportunities, but for an awful lot of people the rate they get paid on day one really doesnt increase year after year. Analysis of the London workforce by Skills for Care for the year up to March 2022 found that 68 per cent of the workforce was black, Asian or minority ethnic (BAME) while 80 per cent were female. Skills for Care said that workers on zero-hours contracts and those under 25 were more likely to leave their posts. The crisis in social care is directly impacting Londons hospitals as beds are taken up by elderly, vulnerable patients with no care package to be discharged into. This leads to gridlock in A&E, with the most recent figures showing that 22,000 Londoners waited over 12 hours for treatment in February. Pay has remained low for care workers as the spending power of local authorities, who commission services from private care providers, has fallen sharply in the last decade. This means that the rates that providers pay to their staff remains low. Unlike NHS employees, care workers lack both an established national framework of pay rates and the collective bargaining power of large unions. Social care is provided by around 18,000 separate organisations you cant have a clear structure to agree and negotiate wages within that, Mr Bottery added. Ministers faced criticism earlier this year after it emerged a 500m funding package for social care workforce funding had been halved. Nuffield Trust deputy director of policy, Natasha Curry, said the announcement was a particularly low blow amid a cost of living and recruitment and retention crisis affecting social care. NHS leaders have previously called on the Government to implement a national care worker minimum wage of 10.50 an hour to fix the workforce crisis. S moking causes the death of one person in London every hour, according to new analysis. Cancer Research UK (CRUK) estimate that tobacco causes more than 4,300 cancer deaths each year in the capital, representing more than a quarter (27 per cent) of total fatalities from the disease. One in ten (11.5 per cent) Londoners still smoke, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), and rates are higher in more deprived boroughs. To mark World No Tobacco Day on Thursday, the charity has written to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak urging him to establish a Smokefree Fund to pay for local services and public health campaigns. Cancer Research UK spokesperson for London, Lynn Daly, told the Standard: Smoke-filled pubs, colourful cigarette packets and cigarette vending machines are all now things of the past. But from these shocking figures, its clear the distressing toll of tobacco is not and thats why we need the help of people across the city to make smoking history. Enough is enough. Most people who smoke want to quit, but they need more support. So, the UK Government must urgently deliver the funding needed to tackle the number one cause of death in London. She added: Many of us know friends and family whose lives are at risk or have lost loved ones to smoking, so we hope that as many supporters as possible will sign our vital petition to the Prime Minister. In a world without cancers caused by smoking, we can make more moments that matter and help people live longer, healthier lives, free from the fear of this devasting disease. The Government has pledged to make the UK smoke-free by 2030, but CRUK said ministers were nine years off target. Around 6.6 million Britons were regular smokers in 2021, according to ONS figures. It is the smallest proportion of smokers since records began in 2011, a sign that tobacco control and vaping have helped to bring down rates over the past two decades. But according to the CRUKs model, smoking rates would still need to drop by 70 per cent for the 2030 target to be met. On Monday, the Government announced it would close a loophole allowing retailers to give free samples of vapes to children as part of a crackdown on the unacceptable marketing of vape products to under-18s. NHS statistics for 2021 showed that 9 per cent of 11 to 15-year-old children used e-cigarettes, up from 6 per cent in 2018. There is growing concern that firms are targeting children through cheap, colourful vape products. The Government said that there will also be a review into banning retailers selling nicotine-free vapes to under-18s. A 73-year-old woman in a wheelchair and an 81-year-old priest were arrested at a Just Stop Oil protest in Parliament Square on Wednesday, the group said. Ten activists with the eco group were detained after refusing to leave the road and stop slow marching at around 11am. The group said that among those arrested were Ari Rox, a 73-year-old retired cook. The Met Police confirmed a number of arrests had been made. Ms Rox, who has used a wheelchair for the past fifteen years, said in a statement: Ive come to London to join the Just Stop Oil march for my children and grandchildren. They are the ones who are going to have to face the mess that is being imposed on us in Britain, by our illegitimate government. Were not asking that all oil is immediately stopped. We are simply asking the government to stop issuing new licences for oil, gas and coal. Just Stop Oil supporters during a slow march in Parliament Square on Wednesday / Just Stop Oil Roughly 66 supporters of the group began their protest at Parliament Square around 10.45am, causing disruption by slow marching in the road. Police began to clear the road around 11am, ordering protesters to stop the slow march under Section 12 of the Public Order Act. A Met Police spokesperson said: At 11.16hrs, Section 12 conditions were issued to Just Stop Oil protestors, slow marching in the road at Parliament Square. By 11.30hrs, they had moved off the road, and traffic was moving. A number of arrests were made. Earlier Wednesday, protesters with the group brought rush hour traffic to a standstill around Hammersmith. A police officer was filmed dragging a Just Stop Oil protester in a bid to clear the road. A Met Police spokesperson said officers dealt swiftly with the protesters, reopening the roads close to West Kensington station, including Cromwell Road. A popular south London lido will not reopen in time for summer after buried asbestos was discovered during a 4m revamp. Works have been ongoing at Tooting Bec Lido since December because its existing systems have reached the end of their life. But on Wednesday, Wandsworth Council said it could not reopen the popular outdoor swimming spot in time for summer due to unforeseen circumstances during repairs. Council officials said this included the discovery of unknown buried asbestos following demolition. Judi Gasser, Wandsworth Councils Cabinet Member for Environment, said: I am so disappointed that we are not able to complete the works in the timescale we had hoped. I love the Lido and will really miss swimming there over the summer, as I know many residents will. Its vital that these essential works are carried out to preserve the lido so that it may be enjoyed by the public for years to come. We are working to reopen the lido as soon as possible and are very sorry for the impact this delay will have. The works include replacing the existing pumphouses, which control the pools water supply, and construction of a new electrical sub-station to power the pumps. A new UV water filtration system is also being installed. The 90-metre lido was first opened to the public in 1906 and is the largest open-air freshwater pool by surface area in the UK. N otebooks and WhatsApp messages belonging to Boris Johnson have been handed over to the Cabinet Office so they can be disclosed to the Covid-19 inquiry, a spokesman has confirmed. The spokesman for the former prime minister said on Wednesday: All Boris Johnsons material including WhatsApps and notebooks requested by the Covid inquiry has been handed to the Cabinet Office in full and in unredacted form. Mr Johnson urges the Cabinet Office to urgently disclose it to the inquiry. The Cabinet Office has had access to this material for several months. Mr Johnson would immediately disclose it directly to the inquiry if asked. While Mr Johnson understands the Governments position, and does not seek to contradict it, he is perfectly happy for the inquiry to have access to this material in whatever form it requires. Mr Johnson co-operated with the inquiry in full from the beginning of this process and continues to do so. Indeed, he established the inquiry. He looks forward to continuing to assist the inquiry with its important work. A row over the levels of disclosure required of the former prime minister was sparked on April 28, when a legal request sent by the inquiry asked for a number of materials, including unredacted WhatsApp messages and diaries belonging to Mr Johnson, from January 2020 to February 2022. Earlier this month the Cabinet Office resisted the request, which was made under section 21 of the Inquiries Act 2005 and which also applies to messages from Mr Johnsons former adviser Henry Cook. Whitehall officials were understood to be concerned about setting a precedent by handing over all the requested documents in unredacted form, rather than deciding what material is relevant and should be submitted to the inquiry. In a ruling last week, Lady Hallett rejected the argument that the inquirys request was unlawful and said the Cabinet Office had misunderstood the breadth of the investigation. Refusing to comply with the request would lead to a legal clash with the official inquiry. The Cabinet Office had been given until 4pm on Tuesday to comply with the order from Lady Halletts public inquiry, but that deadline was extended to the same time on Thursday after officials claimed they did not have all the documents demanded. The demand covers text conversations between Mr Johnson and a host of government figures, civil servants and officials. The list includes Englands chief medical officer Professor Sir Chris Whitty, as well as then-chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance. Messages with then-foreign secretary Liz Truss and then-health secretary Matt Hancock are also requested, as well as with former top aide Dominic Cummings and then-chancellor Mr Sunak. The inquiry also asked for copies of the 24 notebooks containing contemporaneous notes made by the former prime minister in clean unredacted form, save only for any redactions applied for reasons of national security sensitivity. B ritish public officials are a legitimate military target because of the UKs support for Ukraine, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has warned. Mr Medvedev, deputy chairman of Vladimir Putins security council, claimed the UKs support for Kyiv amounted to an undeclared war against Russia. His comments came after Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said Ukraine had the right to project force beyond its borders into Russia to resist Mr Putins invasion. The Ukrainian authorities have denied launching the drone attack which hit Moscow on Tuesday, but there has been an escalation in incidents within Russia either by Kyivs military or local groups opposed to the war. In response to the Foreign Secretary, Mr Medvedev said: The goofy officials of the UK, our eternal enemy, should remember that within the framework of the universally accepted international law which regulates modern warfare, including the Hague and Geneva Conventions with their additional protocols, their state can also be qualified as being at war. Today, the UK acts as Ukraines ally, providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto, is leading an undeclared war against Russia. That being the case, any of its public officials (either military, or civil, who facilitate the war) can be considered as a legitimate military target. UK defence officials believe the incursions into Russia are causing the redeployment of Moscows forces. The intelligence briefing from the Ministry of Defence said: Since the start of May 2023, Russia has increasingly ceded the initiative in the conflict and is reacting to Ukrainian action rather than actively progressing towards its own war aims. During May 2023, Russia has launched 20 nights of one-way-attack uncrewed aerial vehicle and cruise missile attacks deep inside Ukraine. Russia has had little success in its likely aims of neutralising Ukraines improved air defences and destroying Ukrainian counter-attack forces. On the ground, it has redeployed security forces to react to partisan attacks inside western Russia. H undreds of thousands of London households were on Wednesday urged to claim their share of around 40 million in unused energy support vouchers. Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps issued the appeal as the Government stepped up action to ensure people on pre-payment meters do not miss out on the money. As of April 1, 2.1 million of the vouchers had been sent out in the capital, with more than 650,000 of them still yet to be used, worth around 44 million. The vouchers are each worth around 66, and eligible households, mainly those on pre-payment meters, can claim six up until a June 30 deadline, so they are at risk of missing out on around 400. Speaking directly to Londoners, given the city has the lowest take-up rate in Britain of just 68 per cent, Mr Shapps said: Claim what you are owed. Still time to do it - but people do need to take action. Mr Shapps stressed that the low take-up rate in London of the energy support vouchers had been causing concern and that it may be down to factors such as people in urban areas moving more and the number of households in the city with English as a second language. We have gone over the top to try to make sure that in the face of Putins war and the increase in energy prices, we have been trying to ensure that people are getting plenty of support, he explained. But if you use a pre-payment meter and you have not been taking that physical voucher, or voucher sent to you by text or email, to the Post Office or to PayPoint, then you may be about to lose potentially 400 so check that you have claimed and if you havent claim (to top-up your pre-payment account). The Government was working with community, welfare and energy poverty groups, and trying to reach people particularly in London with limited English, to encourage take-up. People may not realise they can claim the money, the minister added, or emails may have gone to their spam folder, or they may have seen a text but forgotten about it. In a wide-ranging interview, Mr Shapps also urged Londoners to inject new drive into Britains race to net zero by choosing a green energy tariff when new deals return to the energy market this summer. The Net Zero Secretary stressed that individuals could themselves encourage renewable energy to be produced by opting for these green deals. There is no reason not to do it, he told The Standard, emphasising that renewable energy tariffs could be just as cheap, or even cheaper than other offers. Mr Shapps expects proper competition to return to the energy market within months after wholesale prices fell very significantly. Last week, it emerged that households will be more than 400 a year better off on average from July after the cap on energy bills was slashed. Energy regulator Ofgem set the cap at 2,074-a-year, down from 3,280 from April to July. That is well below the Governments 2,500 Energy Price Guarantee. Currently, most people are on their energy firms standard or default tariff but new fixed deals are expected to be offered soon. Asked what Londoners could do for the Net Zero drive, Mr Shapps told The Standard: Everyone in their own way has options on these things. For example, its often just as cheap, or even cheaper, to buy renewable energy. He continued: People have not been able to shop around for this last year because we have had the price cap and the energy guarantee, essentially meaning we have all been paying the same pence per kilowatt for our electricity for example. That will start to change in the next three months or so because wholesale prices have dropped very significantly which means that we will start to get proper competition back into the energy market place. In the next few months, people will be able to shop around for their energy again, and look for better deals and whilst doing so you will often find...for example I signed up before Putins invasion..for a deal for renewable energy which is actually cheaper than one that isnt. So there is no reason not to do it and you also know you are encouraging renewable energy to be produced in doing it. Easy thing to do, it doesnt cost you anything, and there is great opportunity in the next few months because deals will start to be a thing that we will see in the energy market again. Pressed whether he would encourage people to opt for the renewable deals, he added: With the energy contracts, look for the ones that are the best price, often they are the renewable ones, so its worth doing. More than half of Britains electricity last year was generated without using hydrocarbons, mainly from renewables, as well as some nuclear, Mr Shapps emphasised. As the country increasingly decarbonises, he hailed Londons transport system as on the whole pretty much the envy of the rest of the country. He added: Often, when I go elsewhere in the world, people refer to the transport system in London as being something that they are trying to replicate. While the various forms of transport in the UK still needed to be cleaned up, including aviation, he stressed on the latter: Actually, London leads the way. Heathrow serves up the most sustainable aviation fuel of any airport in the world. But he was highly critical of Sadiq Khan expanding the Ulez across the whole of London as part of efforts to improve the environment. I dont think the way to do it is to brow beat people into it, he said. I think the way that the Mayor has behaved with Ulez, recklessly bringing it right up to the borders, Im just outside London, just outside the M25 in my Welwyn Hatfield constituency but if we are getting into a taxation without representation situation because of all the different congestion charges, Ulez charges, a border tax that he is thinking of, my voters dont get a say in any of this. A lot of my constituents need to travel for work and if you are in a job where you need a van and you need to get it into London and now suddenly you are hit with these extra charges, its all well and good in 2030, 2035, but we are in 2023, and he is jumping the gun and making life a misery for people who live, particularly in outer London where the Ulez will be expanded, or outside of London where they get no say over this guy being elected and yet he is destroying their livelihoods which I think is wrong. Mr Khan defends the Ulez as key to cleaning up the capitals toxic air and cutting the public health harms it does to Londoners. L GBT+ activists stormed a talk with feminist Kathleen Stock at the Oxford Union before one of them glued themselves to the floor on Tuesday. Hundreds of chanting protesters marched towards the 200-year old debating society where they blared music including Nancy Sinatras These Boots Are Made For Walking as Prof Stock arrived. Professor Stock spoke for around 10 minutes before three protesters emerged from the audience of the packed hall, shouting: No more dead trans kids. One of them, Riz Possnett, glued themselves to the floor as security guards rushed to remove the others and audience members booed the protesters, shouting for Prof Stock to carry on. One audience member addressed the protester, who wore a t-shirt saying no more dead trans kids, shouting, we are here to listen whether you like it or not. Shortly later, four police officers removed Riz and escorted them out of the building to cheers from the audience. The interruption, which lasted for around half an hour, was later dismissed by Prof Stock, who said: It wasnt traumatic for me. Protester Riz Possenett / Getty Images In a series of tweets after they were removed, Riz, an Oxford University student who has appeared on GB News, described Prof Stocks beliefs as dangerous and hateful. Kathleen Stock is not welcome here. Terfs (Trans Exclusionary Radical Feminists) are not welcome here, they said. We will resist hatred, and we will fight for trans rights. The altercation came after the Oxford Union LGBTQ+ Societys president Amiad Haran Diman, which organised the rally outside, promised that the society would not try to shut down the event. A protester holds a sign outside The Oxford Union / Getty Images Speaking after the protesters were pulled out of the hall, Prof Stock said: I actually dont mind that protest. It wasnt traumatic for me. Generally what I find more worrying is that when institutions have listened to the protesters and () then basically become propaganda machines for a particular point of view and everyone else feels they cant say what they want to say. Thats happening, Im afraid, in lots of workplaces and universities. Prof Stock went on to challenge calls for trans-women to access female toilets and changing rooms, arguing that some of them could take advantage. She said it is not fair on females, asking: Why should females take this burden on? When pressed by the unions president, Matthew Dick, on whether trans women posed a similar risk to men, she cited statistics by the Ministry of Justice which showed that at least 50 per cent of those in prison are there for sexual assault, adding: Thats a higher rate than the average male. I hate to be the one to tell you this sort of thing because the people outside totally misunderstand what Im saying but somebody has to say it, she said. And when questioned on whether trans people were less likely to attack women because they suffer from huge amounts of violence themselves, Prof Stock hit back: Im afraid it doesnt follow that people who are subjected to violence arent violent, I think you need to talk to some criminologists. She added: If we do not talk about reality then we go wrong. You can go about your life pretending for a while but reality will hit you in the face. Days before Prof Stocks talk, a group of Oxford University academics and staff signed a letter supporting the right of transgender students to speak out against her. The BBC reported that the open letter, shared on Saturday by the universitys LGBTQ+ society and signed by 100 academics and staff, said: We believe that trans students should not be made to debate their existence. Earlier on Tuesday, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak intervened to support the talk, writing in the Telegraph newspaper that debate was a hallmark of a tolerant society. Before the debate, the universitys vice-chancellor, Professor Irene Tracey defended the philosophers appearance as a matter of freedom of speech. S cholar-activist Joanna Kusiak has won the Nine Dots Prize for her provocative essay using the 2021 Berlin referendum to argue that the rule of law has always been fragile. The Cambridge-based researcher will receive 100,000 dollars (80,447) and a book deal with Cambridge University Press for her response to the question Why has the rule of law become so fragile? Every two years the prize is awarded to a book that is not yet written, with the board setting a question and inviting people to respond with a 3,000-word essay and a book proposal. The prize money enables winners to research, develop their ideas and turn their essay responses into a full-length book published by Cambridge University Press. Ms Kusiaks winning essay takes the case of the 2021 Berlin referendum, in which voters decided to expropriate more than 240,000 properties from corporate landlords into public ownership, to demonstrate the potential of radically legal politics as a way of deepening democracies and renewing the rule of law. She fought off competition from 600 submissions from more than 50 countries to win the prize for creative thinking that tackles contemporary societal issues. The Polish-born winner said: The rule of law promises that all people are free and equal, yet too often it fails to deliver on its promise, getting entangled by power. My book, provisionally titled Radically Legal, showcases how social movements in Berlin and Warsaw work with the law to renew its emancipatory potential. My proposal was the work of love, and I feel elevated by winning the Nine Dots Prize. I am a scholar-activist, which means that I only engage with the topics that I believe are socially important. The book, which will also look at the story of the Berlin movement and the relationship between law and justice, is set to be published in May 2024. Nine Dots Prize board member and judge Professor David Runciman said of the winning entry: Whats so exciting about this proposal from a new voice is the way it mixes the urgency of contemporary politics with the complexity of recent history. Nowhere has the rule of law been subject to more violently different interpretations than in Berlin over the last century. This exploration of the fight over property rights in the city uses the past to illuminate the present and uses the present to suggest an alternative future. Not everyone will agree with whats in this book, but it is sure to provoke fierce argument, which is what the Nine Dots Prize is for. As part of the prize win, Ms Kusiak, who lives in Berlin, is invited to spend a term at the Centre for Research in the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (Crassh), Cambridge University. Ukraine has received $1.25 billion in financial support from the United States under the World Bank's Public Expenditures for Administrative Capacity Endurance (PEACE) Project, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has said. "The funds will be used to support the state budget, especially for social & humanitarian spending," he said on Twitter on Wednesday night. Shmyhal thanked the United States and the World Bank for their help in the fight against the aggressor. T he author of Derry Girls, the head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, a rugby star and a top business executive are set to inspire the next generation of leaders as part of a university project. Lisa McGee, Jayne Brady, Tommy Bowe and Sarah Friar are set to play a key role in a new leadership programme run by Ulster University. The 25@25 Leadership Programme will see nine one-day sessions run over the course of a year as well as the opportunity for a trip to a US university. Ms McGee was both the creator and screenwriter of the Bafta-winning Derry Girls series, Ms Brady last year became the first woman to head up Northern Irelands civil service, Mr Bowe is well-known both as a former Irish rugby international and now TV presenter while Ms Friar is the CEO of technology firm Nextdoor. The programme is designed to work around those who are working or studying, and will include nine one-day sessions over the year. Participants also will have the opportunity to undertake a week-long residential at Babson College in Boston in the US. Ulster University Provost Professor Cathy Gormley-Heenan described the programme as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Ulster University is beyond delighted to announce these four exceptional leaders are joining 25@25 to share their own unique leadership experiences and demonstrate a range of leadership styles and approaches, she said. Our cohort of aspiring leaders will receive invaluable insights into the world of leadership and have the opportunity to learn from these experts in developing into the leaders they aspire to be. The programme is fully-funded and we encourage applications from anyone who has graduated from Ulster University since 2013, or will be graduating this summer, living and working in Northern Ireland, in any sector. This is a once-in-a-lifetime development opportunity for anyone keen on expanding their experiences, growing their leadership capacity and building a long-lasting network. The programme is part of Ulster Universitys plan to mark 25 years since the signing of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement. The deadline for applications is 12pm on Monday June 5. F armers, undertakers and elected politicians are among the occupations most dependent on older workers, new figures suggest. Some 42% of farmers in England and Wales said they were aged 60 years or over at the time of the 2021 census, along with 28% of people working as undertakers or mortuary and crematorium assistants. Nearly a third (30%) of members of the clergy, such as vicars and bishops, were at least 60 years old, similar to caretakers (29%) and typists (31%). But the largest proportion was among elected representatives anyone whose main job is being paid to hold an elected office, from local councillor to Member of Parliament where just over half (52%) were aged 60 or over, and nearly two in five (38%) were 65 or above. The figures have been published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and are the latest data to be released from the census, which took place in England and Wales on March 21 2021. They show that farmers have a particularly old age profile as an occupation, with fewer than 11% aged under 30 and almost a third (29%) aged at least 65. Across the whole working population, only 4% of people are aged 65 or above. Farming is also the occupation with the highest UK-born workforce (98%). The census counted farm workers separately, and among this group who may do more of the physical labour the ONS found nearly a quarter of people (23%) were aged under 25. An occupation with an older age profile could pose challenges for labour supply in the future if not enough young people go into that type of work, the ONS said. While nearly three in 10 (28%) of people working as undertakers and mortuary or crematorium assistants were aged 60 or above, only one in 10 (10%) were under 30. Typists and other related keyboard roles appears to be a dying profession, with 60% of people doing this job aged 50 or over almost double the proportion for the whole workforce (33%). By contrast, data entry jobs, which also involve routine keyboard work, were mostly held by younger people, with 41% under the age of 35 higher the equivalent figure (33%) for the whole workforce. Occupations involving printed information, such as librarians, library assistants or print finishers and book binding workers, were generally older in age profile, with about half of people in these roles aged 50 or over. Jobs involving data analysis had a much younger age profile, however. About half of people employed as a data analyst told the census they were under the age of 35, with a similar picture for actuaries, economists and statisticians. Some skilled manufacturing trades had an older age profile, with nearly half of upholsterers (49%), footwear and leather workers (47%) and glass and ceramic makers (47%) aged 50 or more. But a higher proportion of people aged 60 years or older in certain less skilled roles could point to a return of a preference for part-time work later in peoples careers, the ONS noted. One example are exam invigilators, about half of whom were 60 or over at the time of the census. The top 10 most common jobs for people aged 55 to 59 years old were also often lower paid roles, such as street cleaners or other elementary cleaning occupations. At the youngest end of the age range, 16-24 year-olds made up about half of workers in some hospitality roles including waiters and waitresses (50%), bar staff (48%), and coffee shop workers (48%). The tendency of young people to hold these types of job, and work in hospitality and retail, may have left young people especially open to job losses and being unable to work during the coronavirus pandemic, the ONS added. P ride Month begins on Thursday, June 1, to mark a time of celebrating LGBTQ+ identity and raising awareness of issues facing the community around the world. The month-long event will build towards the 2023 Pride Parade, which will be held on Saturday, July 1. This is a march from Hyde Park Corner to Whitehall Place, with more than 30,000 set to take part and 500-plus groups involved. London is one of the best places to celebrate Pride in the world and there are events for all ages and sexualities. Check our our guide for all the best events and places to go, but not before youve read about the history of Pride! Here is all you need to know. Pride Month 2023 This years campaign will look to honour and celebrate the 1.5 million people in England and Wales who identify as LGBTQ+. The benefits of LGBTQ+ visibility go beyond recordkeeping, charity Stonewall said. As more people have had the opportunity to learn about our lives, attitudes have changed, allowing us all to write new, more colourful chapters in our country's story. Across the month, Stonewall and other charities and organisations will seek to promote change and acceptance within society and workplaces. It will also provide a chance for more people to learn about the history of gay communities and their fight for rights. The new faces of LGBTQ+ London: in pictures 1 / 17 The new faces of LGBTQ+ London: in pictures TeTe Bang, 26 Club personality, drag artist, DJ, professional fun producer Johnny Cochrane Tayylor Made, 26 DJ and club promoter Johnny Cochrane Lyall Hakaraia, 49 Creative director, designer, owner of VFD and fairy godperson to the LGBTQ+ scene Johnny Cochrane Sadie Sinner, 26 Founder and curator of Cocoa Butter Club Johnny Cochrane Charlie Craggs, 25 Writer and activist Johnny Cochrane Whiskey Chow, 27 Artist and drag king Johnny Cochrane Lasana Shabazz, 30 Performance artist, actor and writer Johnny Cochrane Drelle Khan, 29 Creative director Johnny Cochrane Alexandre Simoes, 22 Artist, muse, nightclub promoter Johnny Cochrane Bishi, 34 Singer, composer, co-founder of WITCiH, label boss at Gryphon Records Johnny Cochrane Krishna Istha, 23 Performance artist and actor Johnny Cochrane Dolly Pawton, 2 Instagram star Lucy London, 40 Fashion lecturer Stella Clements, 34 Writer Johnny Cochrane Umber Ghauri, 25 Make-up artist Johnny Cochrane History of Pride month and the Stonewall Riots June is Pride Month because it coincides with the anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots. That year, in the early hours of June 28, eight police officers from the New York Public Morals Division raided the Stonewall Inn a gay bar in Greenwich Village, New York City. There was nothing particularly exceptional about this. In the Sixties, the NYPD unit enforced all vice laws, and had the power to arrest and hospitalise gay people by force. But on this particular night, the bar fought back. Neighbouring revellers were drawn to the scene, hundreds resisted prejudiced arrest, and a mirror was smashed by the shot glass that was heard around the world, thrown by Black transgender activist Marsha P Johnson. As the eight policemen barricaded themselves inside the Stonewall Inn, protesters took control of the street: that night, and the five that followed. London Pride 2019 In pictures 1 / 92 London Pride 2019 In pictures Organisers predicted that as many as 1.5 million people would turn out for the event in what has been hailed as the Britain's biggest and most diverse Pride parade yet. AFP/Getty Images A smiling Sir Ian McKellen join the crowds as revellers turn out in force for Pride in London. Getty Images for Pride in London Hundreds of thousands people have taken to the streets in central London to mark the annual Pride parade. REUTERS The capital was awash with rainbows and glitter on Saturday afternoon in what has been hailed as the Britain's biggest and most diverse Pride parade yet. REUTERS Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said the 'heartbreaking' pictures of a bloodied lesbian couple attacked on a night bus showed the importance of Pride as he launched the parade. Getty Images for Pride in London The annual parade started at Portland Place, moving down Oxford Circus, passing along Regent Street, through Piccadilly Circus to Pall Mall and passing Trafalgar Square before finishing up on Whitehall. REUTERS A couple kissing in Piccadilly Circus during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London Motorcyclists speed along the rainbow-lined streets of London. EPA The Red Arrows smoke red, white and blue over Trafalgar Square. EPA The Red Arrows fly over Wimbledon Tennis Championship after the London Pride flypast. EPA This year's festival comes 50 years since the Stonewall uprising in New York - a moment which changed the face of the gay rights movement around the world. AFP/Getty Images Those taking part are celebrating 50 years since the Stonewall uprising in New York, a moment which changed the face of the gay rights movement around the world. REUTERS Actor Simon Callow (centre) waving the flag for LGBTQ+ youth homelessness charity Akt. Getty Images for Pride in London A man applies colourful makeup as he joins in the festivities. EPA From midday on Saturday some 600 groups began marching through the capital's streets for the annual burst of colour, music and dance. Getty Images for Pride in London Organisers predicted that as many as 1.5 million people will turn out for the event. Getty Images for Pride in London Participants snap a selfie as the parade continues its route through central London. REUTERS Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. EPA A dancer takes part in the Pride in London Parade. PA This year's parade aims to champion diversity, with the introduction of a new World Area at Golden Square in Soho, in a bid to increase the visibility of black, Asian and minority ethnic (Bame) LGBT+ people. AFP/Getty Images Revellers are celebrating 50 years since the Stonewall uprising in New York, a moment which changed the face of the gay rights movement around the world. Getty Images for Pride in London A reveller ahead of the Pride in London Parade in central London. PA Parade groups are honouring five decades of activism, protests and victories, and those behind this year's march have said it is an opportunity for people to stand up against bigotry and hatred in all its forms. REUTERS Sir Ian McKellen walks through Piccadilly Circus for the parade. Getty Images for Pride in London Parade goers support trans women of colour during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London A parade goer during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London A member of the GBMCC during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London Revellers are celebrating 50 years since the Stonewall uprising in New York, a moment which changed the face of the gay rights movement around the world. Getty Images for Pride in London Parade goers walk through central London for Pride 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London Those behind this year's march have said it is an opportunity for people to stand up against bigotry and hatred in all its forms. Getty Images for Pride in London A general view of the giant Pride flag during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London A reveller wears a hat made of plastic dolls during the Pride in London Parade in central London. PA A Pride celebrator with a bejeweled beard. Getty Images for Pride in London A parade goer strikes a pose during Pride in London 2019. AFP/Getty Images A parade goer strikes a pose during Pride in London 2019. AFP/Getty Images A parade goer strikes a pose during Pride in London 2019. AFP/Getty Images Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. AFP/Getty Images A parade goer strikes a pose during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. PA Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London Hundreds of officers will police the parade, and Scotland Yard has advised people to stay vigilant while enjoying the day. Getty Images for Pride in London A rainbow flag is carried through London by proud LGBTQ+ supporters. Getty Images for Pride in London A reveller strikes a pose as the celebrations get under way. PA Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust staff members celebrate the NHS's new rainbow badge scheme. PA Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London Parade goers arrive in elaborate and sometimes daring costumes. Getty Images for Pride in London Members of the police are all smiles as the parade gets under way. Getty Images for Pride in London Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London City of London police tweeted: 'We hope everyone has a happy, enjoyable and safe Pride in London' today! Getty Images for Pride in London Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London Deputy Mayor, Housing and Residential Development James Murray, Michael Salter Church, London Mayor Sadiq Khan, Secretary of State for Defence Penny Mordaunt, James Mordaunt, a guest and Alison Champs during the parade at Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. AFP/Getty Images Parade goers during Pride in London 2019. AFP/Getty Images The city awash with happy revellers and rainbow flags. Getty Images for Pride in London A parade goer shows their love during Pride in London 2019. PA A parade goer during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London A parade goer wears a rainbow Niqab during Pride in London 2019. Getty Images for Pride in London London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Deputy Mayor for Housing James Murray (second left) at the start of London's Pride parade. Getty Images for Pride in London Sadiq Khan mingles with the crowds before the central London parade. Getty Images for Pride in London A parade goer holding a Union Jack flag before celebrations get under way. Getty Images for Pride in London A reveller in royal garb as the festivities kick off in central London. PA Glamorous and glittering outfits stream through the city streets. Getty Images for Pride in London A police officer shows his support. PA Parade goers will be championing a variety of causes. Getty Images for Pride in London Parade goers get ready for the event which is set to draw in crowds of more than 1million people. Getty Images for Pride in London Revellers turn up in a range of colourful and inventive costumes. Getty Images for Pride in London Sadiq Khan joins parade goers for what is being hailed as the UKs biggest and most diverse Pride parade yet. Getty Images for Pride in London Stonewall did not create a movement; LGBTQ+ activism had taken an organised shape in the 1920s, if not before. But the show of force and numbers, coupled with widespread media coverage, empowered throngs to join the campaign. On the first anniversary of the Stonewall riots, demonstrations stretched across the United States in a mix of politics and parties that elevated a community whose existence had been denied, suppressed, and criminalised. Celebrations have reclaimed the historic influence of LGBTQ+ people across the world, and paved the way for a more equal and diverse future. They have peacefully protested injustices not only facing the LGBTQ+ community, but many other marginalised groups. Stonewall 50th anniversary - in pictures 1 / 17 Stonewall 50th anniversary - in pictures Lady Gaga performed for the crowds Erik Pendzich/REX People gather for an event marking the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Inn uprising in New York. EPA A man poses to have his picture taken by a friends outside the Stonewall Inn. EPA Kay,Tom, Bert, and Lo, all from Munich, Germany who traveled to New York for WorldPride 2019. EPA On 28 June 1969, a police raid on the Stonewall Inn bar, sparked large protests in the city's gay community, common called the 'Stonewall Uprising', and marked start of the modern LGBT civil rights movement in the United States. EPA Rainbow flags representing World Pride decorate Rockefeller Plaza on the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising. Getty Images People gather for an event marking the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Inn. EPA The Stonewall Inn in New York. EPA Hundreds gathered outside the historic gay bar. EPA A man poses to have his picture taken by a friends as people gather for an event to mark the 50th anniversary. EPA Rainbow flags representing World Pride decorate Rockefeller Plaza Getty Images People gather for an event marking the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Inn uprising in New York. EPA Whoopi Goldberg and fashion designer Christian Siriano attend Pride Live's 2019 Stonewall Day. Getty Images And over the past five decades, they have become a placard to articulate specific demands, propelling causes like gay marriage and AIDS awareness. In the 1980s, Gay Freedom became Gay Pride and, from 2009 to 2016, President Obama officially declared June the month of LGBT Pride. F ormer US vice president Mike Pence will formally announce his bid for the White House at an event in Iowa next week. The announcement will put him in direct competition with Donald Trump for the Republican party nomination for the 2024 race. Mr Pence is expected to hold an event in Des Moines on June 7, and release a video message as part of the launch. Pence, Trumps running mate in 2016, had been a loyal vice president until he broke with Trump over the 2020 election. He is a social conservative who has pushed for restricted access to abortion and has opposed LGBTQ+ rights. In his bid to reject his defeat to Joe Biden, Trump had attempted to convince Mr Pence to reject the results of the election as he presided over the ceremonial counting of the electoral college votes on January 6, 2021. A mob of Trumps supporters stormed the US Capitol in the insurrection attempt, smashing through windows, attacking police and forcing Capitol staff to run for cover. The former Vice President has said Trumps reckless words" endangered his family and everyone else who was at the Capitol that day and that history will hold Donald Trump accountable." For four years, we had a close working relationship. It did not end well," Pence wrote in his book, So Help Me God. Pence has spent the two-and-a-half years since then strategically distancing himself from Trump as he has laid the groundwork for the campaign. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie is also planning to launch his campaign Tuesday evening at a town hall event in New Hampshire, according to US media. The 60-year-old will confirm he is entering the race at a gathering of supporters in New Hampshire on Tuesday, NBC reported. T he US Government faces court next week over a bid to reveal Prince Harrys immigration records and his declarations on past drug abuse. The Duke of Sussex admitted cocaine and cannabis use in his tell-all memoir Spare, and also described taking magic mushroom chocolates at a party at the LA home of Friends actress Courtney Cox in 2016. Following the release of the book and a whirlwind publicity tour, a conservative thinktank has launched a legal challenge to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), demanding to see the contents of the Dukes visa application. The government has so far refused to release the documents and rebuffed a Freedom of Information attempt to obtain the details. Washington DC federal judge Carl J Nichols will now oversee the legal challenge by the thinktank, the Heritage Foundation, with a hearing set for June 6. Immigrants seeking a visa or permanent residence in the US must answer questions about their history of drug use. US immigration laws say someone determined to be a drug abuser is classed as inadmissible. However there is discretion for immigration officials to waive the rules in individual cases. The Heritage Foundation wants to know what Prince Harry disclosed to the authorities in his application, whether a waiver was applied, and who took the decision. The American people deserve answers to the serious questions raised by the evidence, it said in a statement. Did DHS in fact look the other way, play favourites, or fail to appropriately respond to any potential false statements by Prince Harry? Prince Harry and wife Meghan set up home in Los Angeles in March 2020 after their decision to step down as working Royals. In Spare, the Duke detailed his use of cannabis and magic mushrooms, and said he took cocaine to feel different. It wasnt very fun, and it didnt make me feel especially happy as seemed to happen to others, but it did make me feel different, and that was my main objective. To feel. To be different, he wrote. I was a 17-year-old willing to try almost anything that would alter the pre-established order. The Duke could face the possibility of deportation and losing his US residency if it is discovered he lied about drug use on his immigration forms. V olodymyr Zelensky and bosses from British defence giant BAE Systems have discussed setting up an arms factory in Ukraine as he seeks to build up Kyivs arsenal of weapons. Ukraines president highlighted the discussions - which included possible localised production of weapons in the country - in his overnight address as his military forces are on the brink of launching a major counter-offensive against Vladimir Putins army. Mr Zelensky said: I spoke with representatives of the powerful British defence company BAE Systems. This is a truly large-scale weapons manufacturer the weapons that we need now and that we will need in the future to ensure the security of our country and the entire region. He added: We are working to create an appropriate base for production and repair in Ukraine. We are talking about a wide range of weapons: from tanks to artillery. We will provide Ukraine, and thus the whole of Europe, with this new foundation of strength. Britain has led the West in arming Ukraine against Putins war, first by providing NLAW anti-tank weapons, and then being the first to commit to supply tanks, with Challenger IIs being sent. Mr Zelensky said on his Telegram social media feed: We discussed the localisation of production in Ukraine. We agreed to start work on opening a BAE Systems office in Ukraine, and subsequently repair and production facilities for the companys products. We are ready to become a major regional hub for the repair and production of various types of products of BAE Systems and are interested in making our relations more global. Charles Woodburn, BAE Systems chief executive, said: It was a privilege to speak with President Zelensky as part of ongoing discussions about the support were providing to Ukraine. Were proud to be working with our government customers to provide equipment, training and support services to the Ukrainian armed forces. Were also exploring how we could support the Ukrainian government as it revitalises the countrys defence industrial base to ensure their long-term security. It comes as UK defence chiefs on Wednesday said they believed Russias intensified aerial bombardment of Ukrainian cities including Kyiv in recent weeks has had little success. Putins forces have launched near nightly drone and missile attacks on Ukraine throughout May. In its latest intelligence update, the UK Ministry of Defence said: During May 2023, Russia has launched 20 nights of one-way attack uncrewed aerial vehicle and cruise missile attacks deep inside Ukraine. Russia has had little success in its likely aims of neutralising Ukraines improvised air defences and destroying Ukrainian counter-attack forces. The UK also said Russia has increasingly ceded the initiative in the war to Ukraine since the start of the month. On Wednesday, Russian officials said a Ukrainian drone sparked a fire at an oil refinery in southern Russia. The governor of Russias southern Krasnodar region said a drone was the likely cause of a fire that broke out at the Afipsky oil refinery. Russian officials also said shelling hit a Russian town close to the border for the third time in a week, damaging buildings and vehicles and injuring four people=. A day after Russia has accused Ukraine of being behind a drone attack on Moscow, Ukrainian artillery was said to have struck the Russian town of Shebekino about four miles north of the border with Ukraines Kharkiv region. Two people were hospitalised and the shelling smashed windows and damaged roofs of an eight-storey apartment building, four homes, a school and other places, regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on the Telegram messaging app. T he United States has claimed a Chinese fighter jet flew aggressively close to their reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea, forcing the American pilot to fly through the turbulent wake. Declassified cockpit footage appears to show a Chinese J-16 fighter pilot turn and swoop into the path of a US RC-135 causing the US jet to rattle in what US chiefs are calling an unnecessarily aggressive manoeuvre. US defence chiefs say the Chinese jet flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135 as it was on a routine operation in international airspace last Friday. Wake turbulence is a disturbance that forms behind an aircraft as it passes through the air. It can cause jetwash when the gases expelled from a jet engine create an extremely turbulent disturbance in the atmosphere for a short period. In the statement, US Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, and expects all other countries to do the same. The US has complained that China has become significantly more aggressive over the past five years, intercepting their aircraft and ships in the region amid tensions over Taiwan and the suspected spy balloon flight. The footage emerged after China declined a request from the US for a meeting between their defence chiefs at an annual security forum in Singapore last weekend. Overnight, the PRC informed the US that they have declined our early May invitation for Secretary (Lloyd) Austin to meet with PRC Minister of National Defense Li Shangfu in Singapore, the Pentagon said in a statement referring to China by the initials of its official name, the Peoples Republic of China. The prospect of a meeting was being closely watched given regional security tensions and trade disputes that have derailed plans for re-engagement by the worlds two largest economies. Chinas foreign ministry on Tuesday blamed the United States for its decision, claiming that Washington was well aware of the reasons behind the lack of military communication. The US side should ... immediately correct its wrong practices, show sincerity, and create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for dialogue and communication between the two militaries, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters at a briefing. L ondon some of the worlds best things in its wheelhouse: museums, art galleries, theatres, hotels, restaurants. It often pays dividends to look at these older establishments and re-evaluate them when they attempt something new. A case of reinvention? Perhaps not. Reinvigoration? More accurate. In any case it leads us inevitably into the grand arms of some seriously storied locations, parts of town that are often avoided, swarmed by tourists or prohibitively expensive. But examining these institutions (Shakespeares Globe, the Tate Britain and the Savoy to name a few) is a must when, collectively, they are putting on such a show. Theyre oldies but goodies, in other words although that isnt to say there arent some incredibly recent hits making some noise, either. And so, from newly opened neighbourhood hotspots to 130-year-old bars, heres everything you should be doing this weekend in London. The new opening: Ploussard Press handout Casual neighbourhood restaurants feel distinct in London. The distinct boroughs each having its own village-like feel lends itself particularly well to the small and fiercely independent atmosphere of a neighbourhood joint. Ploussard is one new such offering in Clapham Junction, an area hardly famed for its culinary giants. The lamb and anchovy crumpet is deservedly picking up plaudits among Londons food-lovers, but its the barbecued calcots with wild garlic and peas which truly is a showstopper sweet caramelised onions, fragrant and soft wild garlic, fresh-as-paint peas: the dish is a triumph. They do a decidely respectable Martini, too, and dont rush; what makes Ploussard so appealing is, in its panelled and tiled way, it feels somewhere to go slow in, where a second bottle of wine might be ordered, and where the naughtier stories could come out. 97 St Johns Road, SW11 1QY, ploussardlondon.co.uk The old(ish) favourite: Ekstedt at The Yard Ekstedt Nordic plates are often bleak things of minimalism, all concept and austerity. Not so at Ekstedt. Things here are cooked over coals, huge roaring fires bellow from the small kitchen and fill the dining room with the scent of glorious things to come. These involve chef Ekstedts classics like the flambdou oyster, a technique involving a kind of cast-iron ladle, heated to about 500 degrees, before beef fat is poured into it, combusting in a literal flavour bomb, then poured over the tender oysters. The knowledge and craft to do these ambitious things, and do them well, is infinitely remarkable. 3-5 Great Scotland Yard, SW1A 2HN, ekstedtattheyard.com The old(er) favourite: Ottos Nic Crilly Hargrave Ottos French Restaurant may not be old old the truth is, it got going just 12 years ago but it is a room and a restaurant from a different time. Not necessarily a time gone by, either: once I get the hang of time travel, I fully expect to skip centuries forward and find it still there, the room still as green and haze-making as absinthe. Arrive, step inside and as the door shuts, London departs; it is always a surprise, at the end of a meal, to discover the city still out there. Ottos delights in a certain sort of decadence, a deliberate and heartfelt commitment to opulence, extravagance and the constant pursuit of a good time. The eponymous Otto Tepasse is both a showman and a swordsman witness his way sending lobsters to the other side while the restaurants other director, Elin Hansen, somehow brings both expert order and a devilish sense of mischief to proceedings. But why go now? Well: the restaurants famous duck press is back in action, theres a new starter (Lyonnaise fish quenelle, native lobster and sauce) and a new main (vol au vent, asparagus, morel mushrooms) to try but mostly because its really bloody good. 182 Grays Inn Road, WC1X 8EW, ottos-restaurant.com The drinking den: The American Bar at the Savoy The Savoy The American Bar at the Savoy has as good a claim as any to being the most famous bar in the world. Strange then, that for a while not long ago, things seemed to go quiet for a time. But lately, the noise is at a fever pitch as the American Bar is back in a big way. Since last summer there has been a new head bartender in that famous white jacket Chelsie Bailey, previously of Happiness Forgets and last week, the hotel launched both a fresh, updated look for the bar, and a brand-new menu which nods to a past that includes some of the most famous names in bartending (Harry Craddock, Ada Coley Coleman, Peter Dorelli, Erik Lorincz). The American Bar Journal, as Bailey has dubbed this menu, seems to be take the past and play with it; take for instance, the Dandy Beau, a Negroni riff the team think Ian Fleming would be likely be drinking in the bar today, were he still around. The Fine and Fancy is particularly good, too. The Savoy, Strand, WC2R 0EZ, thesavoylondon.com The must-see show: A Midsummer Nights Dream Helen Murray A bold new staging of an erstwhile play can be an intimidating prospect, but such has long been the mission of the Shakespeares Globe. Elle Whiles production seems to sparkle with playfulness, gently dialled down to a sub three-hour show which the Evening Standards Nick Curtis described as gleeful, continuing the Dream is the Shakespeare play I have probably seen most often and am therefore most bored by: so Im always surprised and delighted when a director shows it to me in a fresh light, as While does. On until just August, its time to scoop up a ticket. Until August 12, Tickets from 5, Shakespeares Globe, SE1 9DT, shakespearesglobe.com The culture fix: Tate Britain Daniel Hambury/Stella Pictures Ltd Like the American Bar, the Tate Britain is too in a league of cultural focal points able to be dubbed a London institution. When its galleries undergo a full rehang, its time to pay attention and last week, that complete rehang was finally revealed. Tate describe it as the worlds greatest collection of British art and its hard to argue with that. More female artists are represented than ever before and with around ten percent of the 800 rehung works acquired in the last five years, there is a greater contemporary feel to this once occasionally antiquated space. Turner and Constable fans neednt fret though, they remain in full splendour, with hundreds of pieces re-homed in their rightful place. As Ben Luke for the Evening Standard put it, That theyve reflected a greater richness across the rest of the collection, and tell its story so rigorously, is some achievement. Millbank, SW1P 4RG tate.org.uk The boozy one: Planet Ardbeg Day Press handout Youre the boss of a top-end Scotch brand, and one of your underlings suggests creating your own immersive, mythical, graphic novel as a pop-up. Do you go for it? Well, the powers that be at Ardbeg did and it went so well theyre bringing it back for a second year. Head to the Light Bar in Shoreditch to play drinking detective: think solving riddles, cracking codes and, of course, doing plenty of Scotch tasting on the journey to help resolve some whisky business with the help of Agent 46. Theres plenty of merch going, bottles to win and three cocktails are included in the ticket. June 3, tickets 40, The Light Bar, 233 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6PJ, eventbrite.co.uk The last chance ticket to book: Selim Kiazim at The Sea, The Sea Press Handout Chef Selin Kiazim is perhaps best-known for her numerous Great British Menu appearances, as well as two (sadly now closed) London restaurants Kyseri and Oklava. Whilst we await news on her next move, Kiazim is taking over the hobs at Hackneys The Sea The Sea for a journey around the coastal regions of her native Turkey. Items from the seven-course menu include crab borek, john dory with Turkish morel pilav and kofte with sheeps cheese sauce and pickled shellfish. Tickets are rightfully scant; a handful remain only for Tuesday June 6, so booking before they go is a must. June 6, tickets at 125, 337 Acton Mews, E8 4EA, exploretock.com The fitness hit: F45 Playoffs and Summer Social F45 If bench hops, burpees, Russian twists squat presses is your idea of a good time then this ones for you. F45 have been hosting their Playoffs for some years now: ten exercises over ten minutes with a ten grand prize up for grabs. The ten minute time-frame doesnt sound too gruelling, until you learn F45 have set the punishing Playoffs to be an intense full body challenge. Sign up is all done online and the event itself takes place June 3 in the Richmond athletic ground. Time to get a sweat on. June 3, Richmond Athletic Ground, Kew Foot Rd, TW9 2SS, f45playoffs.com V ictoria Beckham and Nicola Peltz looked to put reports of a feud behind them as they stepped out as a family to watch Sir Elton Johns last London tour date. The actress, 28, and former Spice Girl-turned-fashion designer, 49, posed for photos together at the gig held at the 02 Arena. The two women were said to have fallen out after Peltz opted to not have her mother-in-law design her wedding dress when she and Brooklyn tied the knot in April 2022. Any sign of animosity was not apparent, however, with US-based Brooklyn and Peltz jetting over to the capital to watch his godfather take to the stage. Taking to Instagram, Victoria shared a snap with daughter Harper, 11, Brooklyn, Nicola, younger sib Cruz, 18, and husband David. She captioned the post: Back together again! I love you all so much @davidbeckham @brooklynpeltzbeckham @cruzbeckham @nicolaannepeltzbeckham #harperseven we miss u @romeobeckham xx. Another upload saw Victoria pose with Peltz and Harper outside a toilet which she highlighted with a drawn-on arrow as she joked chic in a nod to a recent post where the mum-of-four scolded son Romeo, 20, for sharing a picture in a toilet. Peltz replied with four love-heart emojis and reshared the image of herself with Harper and Victoria on her own Instagram. E ntertainer Paul OGrady could be posthumously given the freedom of Wirral as part of plans to pay tribute to his legacy. Councillors will vote next week on whether to award the honorary freedom of the borough to the TV presenter, who was born in Birkenhead, Wirral, and died in March at the age of 67. OGrady grew up in Merseyside but later moved to London, where he found fame as his drag alter-ego Lily Savage and went on to host a string of television programmes. https://twitter.com/i/web/status/1663844895512035328 In a statement, Wirral Council said: Since the sad passing of Birkenheads legendary entertainer Paul OGrady in March, weve heard the many asks for us to celebrate his legacy and we agree. The first step in doing so will see councillors consider a recommendation to bestow the star who first found fame as the self-proclaimed blonde bombsite Lily Savage with the honour of freedom of the borough. This would recognise his years entertaining the nation, along with his dedicated activism and charity work. We are also looking at other ways to pay tribute to the legacy of both Paul and Lily more details will be shared as soon as we have them. Councillors will discuss the award at a regulatory and general purposes committee on Wednesday, June 7. The agenda item for the meeting states: This is a very significant step for the council to take. Very few people have been awarded this status and, it should only be awarded to someone who has made an exceptional contribution to the borough. In the first month after its launch, the BRAVE1 defense cluster received 230 projects, dozens of them passed the examination, Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation for IT Development Oleksandr Borniakov said on Facebook. "More than 230 developments have been submitted for BRAVE1. This is the result a month after the start of the platform's operation. At the same time, dozens of them have already passed military examination, some went on the fast track to the Ministry of Defense. Further developments will go into serial production," he said, noting that the main goal of the cluster was initially to supply innovative weapons to the frontline as soon as possible to effectively destroy the enemy. According to Borniakov, Ukraine widely attracts international support so that Ukrainian developers receive expertise and advice from the world's best experts. "In particular, we plan to involve partners from NATO in the process. And, of course, we talk about our successes in defense tech on all international platforms in order to attract investments more efficiently," he said. The Deputy Minister also appealed to everyone who has innovative ideas or defense-tech products that will help Ukraine win, to apply for BRAVE1. T hey may not always be up for performing their own risky stunts these days, but older actors are repeatedly proving they are up to the task of fathering children. At 82, Al Pacino is set to be the latest A-lister of grandparent age to take on a role beyond the silver screen announcing his girlfriend, Noor Alfallah, 29, is pregnant. And he is in good company as his buddy and Heat co-star Robert De Niro has just confirmed he has become a dad for the seventh time at 79. But they are not alone in what is quickly becoming an old dads club which is assembling a cast to match a film directed by George Lucas (who is also on this list!) or even Clint Eastwood, who turns 93 today. Here are 10 celebrities who might be among the eldest to turn up for parents evening if there is even such a concept in Hollywood. Sir Elton John / Erika Goldring / Getty Images Sir Elton John Sir Elton was 63 and approaching retirement age (as if!) when he and his partner fulfilled a dream to become dads, back in 2010. They had their son by surrogate and then, three years later, welcomed a second child into the family. George Lucas The American Graffiti director (thats his most famous film, right?) most recently became a dad in 2013, aged 69. He had his first child back in 1981 shortly after Luke Skywalker found out his true ancestry, to reference a lesser-known Lucas film that came out in 1980. Clint Eastwood Another legendary actor/director with a connection to Noor Alfallah although the two were only ever friends, according to Pacinos girlfriend. Eastwood is 93 today (May 31) and had his latest child at the tender age of 63, to bring his total to eight. Billy Joel The musician was 71 when his fourth and current wife, Alexis Roderick, gave birth to Remy Anne in 2017 aged 35. Joel is set to perform at British Summer Time in Hyde Park this year. Mick Jagger Joel and Jagger have little in common musically but might be able to swap notes on parenting in their 70s as the latter had his most recent child at 73. In 2016, Jagger fathered a son who he gave the refreshingly down-to-earth name of Deveraux Octavian Basil Jagger. He is also the former boyfriend of Alfallah. Steve Martin In Cheaper by the Dozen, Martins character has well, 12 children but it wasnt until 2012, when he was 67, that he had a child of his own. Mary Martin was born from his marriage with Anne Stringfield. Old dad Jeff Goldblum / Taylor Jewell/Invision/AP Jeff Goldblum Surprisingly, Goldblum is now 70 but fathered his first child at the age of 62. Sons River Joe and Charlie Ocean entered the lives of him and wife Emilie Livingston from 2014. Alec Baldwin At the age of 62, Baldwin had his youngest daughter, Ilaria Catalina Irena, with his wife, Hilaria. The actor now has eight offspring from two marriages. Al Pacino / Jonathan Brady / PA Archive Robert De Niro One of the elder statesmen, even on this list, is De Niro whose career has taken a turn for the better with recent roles in The Irishman, Joker, and Amsterdam, offsetting the mid-2010s slump of Dirty Grandpa and Grudge Match. This month he announced his seventh child, this latest arrival with girlfriend Tiffany Chen. Al Pacino Not to be outdone by his fellow Italian-American acting contemporary, Pacino revealed this week he is expecting with Kuwaiti-American film producer Noor Alfallah. This will be his fourth child. He might have trumped De Niro in terms of fathering at a late age (82 vs 79) but the internet is now debating which of the two was the better looking at a younger age. Not that their age appears to be hampering their abilities to get lucky. R yan Gosling has revealed that he never thought about becoming a father until he met his partner Eva Mendes. The couple fell for each other while filming 2012 indie film, The Place Beyond the Pines, in which they played on-screen parents. They went on to become parents themselves, welcoming two daughters, Esmeralda and Amada. While the pair have kept their relationship largely out of the spotlight, Gosling offered a rare insight into their relationship, admitting that playing a family on screen made him want a family in real life with Mendes. The 42-year-old told British GQ in a new interview: I wasnt thinking about kids before I met her, but after I met Eva, I realised that I just didnt want to have kids without her. And there were moments on The Place Beyond the Pines where we were pretending to be a family, and I didnt really want it to be pretend anymore. The actor is British GQs latest cover star / Gregory Harris/GQ I realised that this would be a life I would be really lucky to have. After welcoming their second daughter in 2016, the LaLa Land star took time away from Hollywood so he could spend as much time as I could with his girls. Reflecting on that period of his life, Gosling admitted that hitting pause on the spotlight was imperative to figuring out his priorities, particularly his attitude towards his job now that he was a father of two. The Ides of March actor continued: I treat it more like work now, and not like its, you know, therapy. Its a job, and I think in a way that allows me to be better at it because theres less interference. Following a four-year hiatus from the big screen, Gosling is now gearing up to release his highly-anticipated film, Barbie. The actor plays Ken opposite Margot Robbies Barbie. The summer issue of British GQ is available via digital download and on newsstands on the 13th June. A ustralians in the state of Queensland could be jailed for up to three years for sharing social media posts that violate sweeping hate crime laws. The Criminal Code (Serious Vilification and Hate Crimes) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 proposes tougher penalties for those who commit crimes motivated by prejudice on the grounds of race, religion, sexuality or gender identity. The proposed laws would increase the maximum prison time for making bigoted statements from six months to three years. Inflammatory social media posts fall under the purview of the bill, which prohibits the vilification of specified groups through any form of communication to the public, including via electronic means. Sharing a Nazi symbol on social media, or carrying it around publicly, will also result in jail time. The bill introduced into the Queensland Parliament in March would modify the criminal code to introduce a prohibited symbols offence. This would ban the display of hate symbols, including those tied to Nazism and the Islamic State. As part of the clampdown on hate symbols, Queensland will ban the display of Nazi swastika tattoos. The Queensland government says its hate crime laws will be among the strongest in Australia. Displaying a swastika is already illegal in Victoria and New South Wales (NSW), with Western Australia set to follow and South Australia also considering the issue. In NSW, it results in a year-long jail term or a $100,000 (81,000) fine. Like NSW and Victoria before it, Queensland will exempt Hindus, Buddhists and Jains, for whom swastikas are religious symbols. There will also be an exemption for when hate symbols are used for educational purposes. The Queensland Law Society (QLS) opposes the increased maximum imprisonment for serious vilification. In its submission to the government, the QLS urged it to closely examine how effective and practical the higher penalty would be. The Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) has previously welcomed bans on the Nazi symbol in NSW and Victoria. It also pushed Queensland and other Australian states and territories to move quickly to adopt similar legislation. These bans are an important tool to deter open displays of antisemitism and further marginalise racist extremists, and will help strengthen communal cohesion and harmony across Australia, the AIJAC said in June 2022. I t seems scarcity breeds success as far as social networks are concerned. Bluesky, a Twitter alternative that is all but restricted to VIPs and people with exclusive invites, has amassed 100,000 users in a matter of months. It helps that the platform quickly caught the eye of a number of rattled celebrities peeved by Elon Musks divisive management of Twitter. Blueskys current crop of luminaries include US Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has more than 13 million Twitter followers; model Chrissy Teigen, who has mocked Musks purge of Twitter blue ticks; and Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning director Christopher McQuarrie. Theyve been joined by The Eternals star Kumail Nanjiani, Shaun of the Dead director Edgar Wright, and Moon director Duncan Jones. What is Bluesky? The Bluesky app appeared on Apples iPhone App Store in February, and an Android version was released in April. At the time of writing, the only way to access the platform is by joining a waiting list or by grabbing an invite from someone who has already signed up. Those who want to try out Bluesky can input their email address at the Bluesky website to join the queue. In terms of its design, screenshots on the Bluesky App Store page show an interface very similar to that of Twitter. There are likes, retweet-like reposts, and comments on posts. The apps fledgling user base has even coined a phrase for Bluesky posts: Theyve taken to calling them skeets, which is a combination of the words tweet and sky. It also has a very NSFW meaning that we wont share here. The phrase is emblematic of the irreverent mood on the app; one article describes it as the opposite of professional-networking platform LinkedIn. However, the way this social network operates in the background is quite different from its rivals. Bluesky is a decentralised social app. This means it operates off multiple servers run by multiple entities, rather than being controlled by a single company. It uses a piece of technology called the AT Protocol to store your account data, effectively connecting up these decentralised elements. If you have tried Mastodon, the most talked about of the Twitter alternatives, you have already experienced a decentralised social network. How to get a Bluesky invite Bluesky CEO Jay Graber has claimed 1.2 million people were on the waiting list after Musk took over Twitter. That figure is likely to have only climbed since. But, there may be a quicker way to get in. Existing Bluesky users are being sent invite codes, which let anyone get started on the social network. Some of these are being given away on Twitter, the very place those keenest to get on Bluesky are fleeing from. A r/blueskyinvites subreddit has been established, and theres also an invite thread in the r/BlueskySocial subreddit. One seller is even attempting to offload Bluesky invites on eBay for 155 each. However, we strongly recommend not paying for these. Blueskys rollout is quite slow, with the service having reached an estimated 20,000 users in mid-April. But this is in part to generate the hype that comes with scarcity, and to ensure the services servers dont collapse through rapidly increasing demand. Is Bluesky a good Twitter alternative? At a glance, this may look like Dorsey reacting to Musks recent handling of Twitter. However, Dorsey announced Bluesky in December 2019, as a way to attempt to tackle issues with social media that existed years ago. One aim was to give the user more control, including over content recommended to them, while reducing the power of the platform holder. Bluesky reportedly started off with a team of five people and was moved to its own independent company in 2022, with Dorsey on its board. It is unclear how involved he is in the day-to-day running of Bluesky. He has described the app as being like a web browser that lets you explore the AT Protocol network. Heres where we bump into an issue that turned some off Twitter alternative Mastodon. It asks you to join a specific server, making the process seem less simple and more like a geekier online community such as Reddit. At present, its unclear how friendly Bluesky will seem to a less techy crowd, although the screenshots are at least promising. Loading.... A group of AI experts including the boss of the firm behind ChatGPT and the head of Googles AI lab say that artificial intelligence poses a similar risk of human extinction as pandemics and nuclear war. However, Cecilia Rikap, a senior lecturer in international political economy at City, University of London tells Tech & Science Daily she believes this latest warning is simply a distraction by the big AI firms. She explains how the group statement is part of plans to control the narrative around how AI should be regulated and managed. Researchers have discovered 4,000 year-old plague DNA in Britain, the oldest evidence of the disease in the country. Pontus Skoglund and Pooja Swali from the Francis Crick Institute tell Tech & Science Daily why the discovery is so significant, and what we can learn from it. North Korea has failed to launch its first spy satellite into space. The countrys official Central News Agency said that the rocket crashed off the Korean Peninsulas western coast after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages. A group of health and science leaders are calling on the aviation sector to protect passengers from contaminated cabin air. The International Fume Events Task Force says things like engine oils and hydraulic fluids can contaminate the cabin air, and it has documented reports of it happening over the past six years. And the rest Chinese Scientist: 'Don't rule out' COVID-19 lab leak theory, smart bandages could improve outcomes for patients with non-healing wounds, why fish are relocating to colder waters, and the red panda that escaped from Newquay Zoo. Listen above, and find us on your Spotify Daily Drive or wherever you stream your podcasts. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the consolidation of partners in order to make the Ukrainian air defense system as effective as possible continues. "Russian terror must be defeated every day and every night, in every region of Ukraine, in the skies of every Ukrainian city and village," he said in a video message on Tuesday. According to the president, "when any attack by Russian terrorists ends in failure for the terrorists, their defeats will become a source of our long-term security." "Today I spoke with German Chancellor Scholz, in particular about air defense. I thanked him for the air defense systems already provided to Ukraine, that is, for the lives of our people already saved by Germany. We Kuleba addresses 31 NATO FMs before meeting in Oslo, naming three steps for success of Alliance's summit in Vilnius Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba addressed all NATO foreign ministers before their informal meeting in Oslo, outlining three steps for the success of the upcoming Alliance summit in Vilnius. "I addressed all 31 NATO foreign ministers ahead of their informal meeting in Oslo. Three steps to make Vilnius summit a success: 1) Strengthen Ukraine-NATO institutional ties and assistance; 2) Take a step toward UA membership; 3) Provide security guarantees on Ukraine's path to NATO," he said on Twitter. Community partners involved with the Port-All Situation Table have been meeting quietly once a week for years at the Port Cares Reach Out Centre. The situation table, also known as a hub, brings together front-line staff from the public safety, health, and social service sectors to identify vulnerable people in Port Colborne. The job of the situation table is for multiple agencies to work collaboratively and quickly to connect people to services before they ever experience a negative or an acutely elevated risk of harm. Its an international model of collaboration, explained Michelle Johnston, Niagara Regions program manager of community safety and well being. The Port-All Situation Table is celebrating its fifth anniversary this week, but the risk-intervention model was inspired by efforts in Glasgow, Scotland and eventually made its way to Canada. We are very lucky that Port Carers and the Niagara Regional Police Services saw the value of this model and brought it successfully to Port Colborne for the past five years, Johnston said. Other agencies involved include Bridges Community Health Centre, Community Living of Port Colborne and Wainfleet, Gateway Residential and Community Support Services of Niagara, Canadian Mental Health Association, Pathstone Mental Health, City of Port Colborne Bylaw Department, Regional Municipality of Niagara Community Mental Health, Community Addiction Services of Niagara, Contact Niagara, and Family and Children's Services Niagara. Christine Clark Lafleur, Port Cares executive director, said in the event of a crisis, police can end up being the point of first contact. The goal of the situation table is to ensure people are getting the help they need before police ever intervene. This model of service was really to bring the right providers to those people in need at a time of need, but more intentionally prior to need, she said. It's been an incredible model of co-ordinated and integrated services, to deal with complex situations for families and individuals who are at an elevated risk. NRPS Insp. Sandy Staniforth said she has seen first-hand the benefits of the situation table has had within the community because it has helped people improve their own lives. A lot of times, our interaction with people who are in at-risk situations, would be we arrest them, we take them to jail, process them, and when they get out, there are no resources hooked up, and we havent changed any behaviour or helped them through that whole piece, she said. It helps the community work together to make the community and the people better, she said. Amanda Upper, manager of the agency's Reach Out Centre, said the situation table can intervene when a person is facing several different risk factors. It can be anything from mental health to criminal involvement; its those risk factors that create a case where suddenly either public safety or an individuals safety or a familys safety and well-being is at stake, she said. Were able to bring these situations to the table and get the right players involved to intervene, and answer more than just a single risk factor, but to provide a wraparound approach of services at the same time. Johnston said Port-All is marking its fifth anniversary to raise awareness. The goal is to not only raise awareness of what a situation table is, but bring that model regionwide, she said. Although Port-All is the first situation table in Niagara, Johnston said there are informal situation tables in other municipalities in the region. Niagara Region is currently in the process of connecting with community agencies to build a situation table in every community. So, there will be lots of opportunities for agencies to get involved as we connect with them, Johnston said. Lafleur said the front-line workers involved are the eyes and ears within a community. The referrals we get often come from the front-line workers who know the community and who know the families and individuals and can see the deterioration in circumstances, she said. STORY BEHIND THE STORY: The Port-All Situation Table is a group of community partners that brings human services together to mitigate risk situations. With the group celebrating its fifth anniversary, reporter Sarah Ferguson decided to find out how the group has improved the lives of people within the community. SHARE: The way Niagara Falls city council conducts its Indigenous meeting opening led to a debate between Coun. Lori Lococo and Mayor Jim Diodati Tuesday night. Lococo was discussing an item on the agenda from the municipalitys diversity and inclusion committee that recently passed a motion calling on council to include an official land acknowledgment at the start of all council meetings, city committee meetings and municipally led public events. The motion was introduced to the committee by Brian Kon, a local artist of Metis descent and an advocate in the Indigenous community, who said the road to truth and reconciliation involves two parties. The first includes the Indigenous people who have, for thousands of years, been the caretakers of the land, water and natural resources long before Canada formed as a nation, despite challenges they faced over the past 500 years, he said. The second is non-Indigenous and the reconciliation to acknowledge the role Indigenous people played in ensuring those same resources are enjoyed by both local citizens and visitors to Niagara today. Kon said traditional openings by Indigenous leaders are important in the process but should not replace a statement of respect from non-Indigenous people acknowledging gratitude for those gifts we all share. Traditional openings by Indigenous people are not intended to replace a land acknowledgment. Council referred the matter to staff to consider options for the land acknowledgment at meetings and other city-run events, as well as when and where it appears on an agenda, and report back to council. Lococo said she wholeheartedly agrees with Kons comments and the committees recommendation. Were doing the education piece from Indigenous to non-Indigenous and thats great, (but) ... we should be doing, as non-Indigenous people a land acknowledgment. Its really bothered me that we are not acknowledging the Indigenous people. Diodati took exception to Lococos comments, adding he believes council is acknowledging Indigenous Peoples with its meeting opening. Diodati said at the beginning of every meeting after the singing of the Canadian national anthem he invites Indigenous leaders, including Kon, to deliver pre-recorded testimonies on a rotating basis, with the aim of educating our community. As part of the introduction, the mayor says: We acknowledge and thank the Indigenous Peoples who were stewards of this land for a millennia before us. After the video is played, Diodati ends with: We are grateful together for the land we share. But Lococo said an official land acknowledgment is quite different. Its not that different, responded Diodati. I did this in consultation with the Indigenous. I didnt pull this out of the air. I just take exception to your comment because I dont agree. Lococo said she understands there are differences of opinion and that its her opinion that non-Indigenous people are not acknowledging Indigenous people in the way that Indigenous people would like to be acknowledged. Im really happy to see that its on the agenda. Mr. Kon took it to the diversity and inclusion (committee) and they agreed, and now thats why its there, so Im in support of that, she said. Everybody has different ways of looking at it. What were doing is not bad, its not the wrong thing, but we should be doing more. Diodati said he thinks what council is doing is good, noting he came up with the opening in consultation with Indigenous leaders such as Stacey LaForme, chief of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, who also delivers pre-recorded openings at council. As does Jackie Labonte, a traditional knowledge keeper and local member of the Haudenosaunee. Were going to find the made-in-Niagara Falls solution. We dont need to follow anybody. We can be unique, said Diodati. The fact that we do the videos weve got a lot of positive from people that we do it like that. Part of the other concern is a lot of places that do a standard, stock, boiler-plate land acknowledgment, people dont even pay attention. They just say it and other people are doing other things, and I wont allow that to happen. Diodati said hes going to bring forward something with staff thats going to be respectful, educational and endorsed by Indigenous communities. Lococo said a land acknowledgment shouldnt just be a statement that everybodys reading. There should be thought into it, there should be looking forward to the future, acknowledging the people that are here now, not just from before. She called on the city to consult with local Indigenous leaders, in addition to others, so that the municipality is looking at different perspectives, to which Diodati said the city does. SHARE: The Queen Elizabeth Centre property owned by the City of St. Catharines is being eyed as a possible location for affordable housing. City council wants to explore potential partnership models for building affordable housing at 2 Facer St. that would also allow the existing tenant, Boys and Girls Club of Niagara, to remain. St. Georges Coun. Kevin Townsend, who made a motion Monday directing staff to explore options, said in an interview Wednesday he chose the location in part because of timing the building is due for renovations. If were going to be putting money into an upgrade, why can we not use that opportunity to find a way to include housing on site? Townsend said its also a good central location, close to the highway and transit stops and not too far from Fairview Mall. He said there are a number of organizations that partner with municipalities to build and operate housing on municipal lands. The type of development a partner may be interested in could take the form of apartments or town homes, using the existing building or other parts of the property. Queen Elizabeth Centre is 1,245 square metres and sits on a 0.72-hectare site bordered by Facer Street, Niagara Street and Dieppe Road. Boys and Girls Club of Niagara has been running programs out of the building since July 2008. Its current lease runs until March 31, 2028. Townsend said the organization supports the idea of housing on site as long as it is maintained as a tenant. Thats the goal here. Were not looking to remove them as tenants, we just want to find an opportunity to add some housing, especially now that were going to be moving forward in that right direction with the municipal development corporation. Council on Monday approved in principle the creation of a municipal development corporation to handle real estate matters for the city. A staff report with an implementation plan will be presented later this year that council will still have to approve. The 2 Facer St. site was one of 12 locations identified for potential development by Urban Metrics in a feasibility study for the city. The consultants report said the community centre presents an opportunity for mixed-use development, including medium density residential uses, and is a unique property in the citys portfolio because of its highway visibility, existing community uses and parkland land use designation. This is a strong opportunity for a real estate entity due to the importance of the existing community facilities and range of potential development outcomes, t its report said. Townsends request for potential partnership models on the site comes as the city continues to look for new ways to increase housing in the city and encourage affordable units. St. Catharines has been tasked by the province with helping developers build 11,000 housing units by 2031. In the past five years, council created an accessory dwelling unit program that provides grants to eligible homeowners who create apartments in their residences and it adopted a vacant building registry bylaw to discourage empty units. It created a surplus lands development task force to prioritize affordable housing for lands no longer needed and it put a property at 320 Geneva St. up for sale with the condition a development include affordable and social housing units. Council updated the developer incentive community improvement plan to include scoring criteria for affordable housing, brought in development charges for new builds which included exemptions, reductions and grant programs for affordable housing and introduced community benefits charges, which include an affordable housing grant program. SHARE: The silence on a stretch of King Street was overwhelming Tuesday afternoon, broken only by birds chirping and the sound of distant bagpipes and drums approaching Welland Arena. Hundreds of civilians, Niagara Regional Police officers, Niagara Emergency Medical Services paramedics and firefighters from across Niagara and places including Toronto and Sarnia lined both sides of King from Fifth Street to the arena for the funeral procession of Welland Fire and Emergency Services Capt. Craig Bowman. Bowman died May 21 at the age of 47 after a yearlong fight with occupational cancer. Also known as Opie, Bowman started his fire service career in Thorold before joining the Welland fire department as a full-time firefighter in 2002. Before arriving at the arena for the service, colleagues placed his coffin on a fire service pumper truck at Station 1 headquarters on East Main St. The procession, led and followed by regional police, headed west on East Main Street to Prince Charles Drive, north to First Avenue, west on Fitch Street and back south on Prince Charles Drive to Ontario Road and then north on King Street, passing all the citys fire halls. On King Street, a pipe and drum corps emerged from Station 2, leading the procession, with an honour guard and pallbearers following. Just behind, and inside the pumper, was Bowmans family, wife Alisen and his children Alexis and Colin. A large Canadian flag was draped above King Street between the citys two aerial trucks by the arena as the procession passed underneath. As it approached, firefighters, police and paramedics snapped to attention, saluting Bowman and his family. Inside the dimly lit arena, the service began with colleagues talking about Bowman and what he meant to them and them and the community. Craig Bowman was a leader through and through, Chief Adam Eckhart said at headquarters before the service. He had natural charisma, and people wanted to follow him. Eckhart said Bowman, also an acting platoon chief, had a considerable impact on the fire service. He was an excellent leader both on the fire ground and off. He built relationships and navigated conflict. He had a way of leading people and bringing them together. The chief said Bowman set a good direction and was a mentor and role model. If you wanted to succeed, you could easily follow in his footsteps and have a great career and a very successful one. Eckhart didnt know what words he could use to measure the loss of the veteran firefighter. Craig was a wonderful person and a crucial part of our team. I dont know how you can measure that type of glue, the chief said of Bowmans ability to lead and bring people together. With firefighters from across Niagara and beyond attending, Eckhart said that spoke to the family of the profession, the commonality and uniqueness of the job they share. It showed the support for a fallen member and profession, whether Bowman was known to any of those people in attendance or not, he added. To ensure on-duty Welland firefighters could attend the service, something Eckhart felt was important for all, he asked neighbouring municipalities to cover for the city. Port Colborne Fire and Emergency Services manned Station 2 on King Street, Thorold and Niagara Falls fire departments manned East Main headquarters and St. Catharines Fire and Services manned Station 3 on Prince Charles Drive. With files from Kris Dube SHARE: World leaders at the G7 Hiroshima summit acknowledged that transformative, quality education is the catalyst to achieving sustainable development goals. It filled me with hope that they called out education as an essential building block to address climate and development challenges. However, much of the language used is around looking forward. The time to act is now. Leaders say they are firmly determined to uphold previous commitments to protecting educational opportunities and to empowering girls. This refers to the G7 commitment at Carbis Bay in 2021 to support the education of 40 million more girls with $2.75 billion (U.S.) over a five-year period for the Global Partnership for Education. At the time, civil society welcomed the commitment of wealthy G7 nations to ensure the most vulnerable girls are not left behind, but it still fell short of the $3.5 billion that civil society partners were calling for. If gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls is fundamental for a resilient, fair, and prosperous society as the leaders claim, this was a golden opportunity for new financial commitments. Although I am buoyed by the references to breaking barriers and helping children to fulfil their potential commitments Children Believe makes in its own mission statement agencies like ours who are leading the charge depend on a clear commitment and a fresh funding pledge. This is essential for local partners, school administrations, community leaders, families and government agencies to promote equality for girls and to deliver the tools and training needed to understand their rights and reach their full potential. It is time to stop looking at women and girls education as something to be solved, but rather as a solution to some of the worlds major issues. For example, in many instances experts consider girls education as more effective a solution to climate change than buying electric cars or scaling solar power. Research also shows that when educated women work, they invest 90 per cent of their income back into their childrens health, education, and their communities, compared to 35 per cent for men. Leaders must talk the talk and walk the walk to support growth. Educated girls are more likely to run a business, educate their children and give back to their communities, avoid child marriage and poverty and invest in childrens health and welfare. Investing in girls education could potentially unlock trillions of dollars for the global economy. Not pushing education forwards on the agenda or making new commitments in Hiroshima was an opportunity missed. The Government of Canada can continue to show leadership to champion global access to education as a human right and a lifesaving intervention. Instead of leaving the most vulnerable children behind, we must embrace them as the best path toward a better world. Fred Witteveen is the CEO of Children Believe, a Canadian charity working to promote access to equitable, high-quality education, especially for girls, supporting health and child protection and gender equality. He is a veteran humanitarian leader with a dedication and drive to foster positive change within marginalized communities. To learn more about Children Believes work supporting children around the world and how you can help, visit childrenbelieve.ca SHARE: Since February 24, every day in Ukraine has become Children's Day, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy said at the opening of the conference UA War. Unfinished Lullaby on Wednesday. "We emphasize that we are defending not only Ukraine, but entire free Europe. This is objective, honest and humane," he said. According to the president, "we protect all our children and since February 24, Children's Day is every day." Today, he said, we are fighting for what this world will be like. "When we say 'our children,' we fight for all children, future generations. What we call the future," Zelenskyy stressed. "We will rebuild everything, everything that Russia has destroyed. So that every Ukrainian child can return home to Ukraine - to a normal life, where there will be no war and the concepts of temporarily displaced persons, refugees, and deportation," the president said. Many June grads will be gifted the Dr. Seuss book Oh, the places youll go! Food writer Gabby Peyton points our gaze to the places we went with her upcoming book Where We Ate: A Field Guide to Canadas Restaurants Past and Present. (Available June 6.) Based in St. Johns, N.L., the well-travelled Peyton, who has accumulated miles pulling a U-Haul, encountered surprises in her own life journey. With graduate degrees in history, ancient art and architecture, shed worked on archeological digs in Turkey, sensing that she was on an academic path leading to a PhD followed by teaching or gallery work. Then along came the old Yiddish proverb, We plan, God laughs. The fact that Peyton loved food, had worked in bars and restaurants and was passionate about writing all paid off when she entered the world of food writing. Gabby Peyton, author of "Where We Ate: A Field Guide to Canada's Restaurants, Past and Present." Alex Stead Photography/Penguin Canada Photo At the core of her writing was a seemingly unquenchable enthusiasm for learning about what people eat and why, how dishes are invented all origin stories. No surprise that she began the Iconic Canadian Food series for Food Bloggers of Canada (FBC) about Canadian classics such as donairs, beaver tails, ginger beef, butter tarts, poutine, Hawaiian pizza (and more) and continued that work with Canadian Food Focus. Her portfolio and media appearances are now extensive. Embracing her zeal for travelling to eat expanded her focus to where we eat. Where We Ate is a synthesis of Peytons love of history, food, what people eat and why all with a Canadian focus. The cover of author Gabby Peyton's new book. Penguin Canada Photo The book is divided into decades from pre-Confederation to the present and scoops up stories from across the country with the belief that the origin stories of our early restaurants (and the latest hot spots) all have a place in the Canadian historical compendium. Peyton began with a worthy but unmanageable list of 400 eateries that was eventually narrowed down to 150 from every province and territory. Eighty-five are still open. Some were forced to close by the pandemic which also made it problematic for Peyton to undertake cross-country travel/visits. Local eateries included in the publication are Roma Bakery and Deli, Tim Hortons, D Hot Shoppe (Burlington), The Olde Angel Inn (Niagara-on-the-Lake), The Rex Hotel (Welland) and The Arbor (Port Dover). Pizza from Roma Bakery and Deli. The Hamilton Spectator file photo Roma Bakery & Deli appears in the 1950s chapter. Still run by the same family, their story includes the surprising fact that their iconic pizza did not become popular until the 1970s. The book doesnt mention that they have undertaken a $4 million expansion to be completed this fall. Earlier this month, they announced a sister project, Sorella. A preview pop-up dinner at Trocadero Restaurant sold out quickly. Tim Hortons is mentioned in the 1960s chapter with Hamilton as the home of the first official franchise. The 2000s chapter includes D Hot Shoppe in Burlington (2005-present) making their grandmothers Caribbean roti and other Trinidad and Tobago specialties. Gabriel and Simone Lou-Hing, owners of D Hot Shoppe. D Hot Shoppe The 1910s chapter lists two local eateries still open! The book explains that when Wellands Rex Hotel opened in 1915 (under a different name) more than a thousand Italians were working on the Welland Canal. They began serving pizza in 1935 and today are known for their pizza and ice cream. The Arbor (1919-present) in Port Dover still serves Golden Glow, the freshly squeezed citrus drink made from a secret recipe and served with snacks enjoyed by sunseekers. The pre-Confederation chapter sent me to a study of maps. The Kings Head Inn Burlington Bay, (1794-1813) was described in historical documents as beautifully situated at a small portage leading from the head of a natural canal (Lottridges inlet), and connecting Burlington bay with Lake Ontario. Shoreline infill partly accounts for why I cannot picture that location. Says Peyton also known as Government House, (it) was one of the state-owned inns built to facilitate travel. Many of the inns didnt discriminate when it came to mealtimes; those of all classes, races and genders would have eaten side by side at the inns of Upper Canada. No map is required to visit Niagara-on-the-Lakes Olde Angel Inn, (1789-present). In what was then Newark (and capital of Upper Canada) it has a rich history. Locally we have many more long-established eateries that have endured for well over 50 years Easterbrooks, Collins Brewhouse, Hutchs, Shakespeares, Black Forest Inn, Trocadero, Capri, Rankins Grill to mention a few. Readers will delight in the books many photos and stories about eateries both familiar and newish. The book celebrates all who came to Canada for a new life and stresses that they built that life by feeding Canadians both new and old their traditional recipes, alongside new inventions. Gabby Peyton food writer, culinary historian, recipe developer, and traveller remains interested in how food is connected, and how people have moved and how different dishes have moved with them and is confident that there are still a lot of restaurant stories waiting to be told. The book includes 15 recipes four of which are from Peyton. Heres her recipe for East Coast Donair Sauce described as the sweet, tangy elixir that East Coasters love on their hand-held grilled meat sandwich and apparently even on cheesecake! East Coast Donair Sauce: Recipe inspired by King of Donair (1977-present) Makes About 1 cups (375 mL) 2 3 cup (160 mL) evaporated milk 2 3 cup (160 mL) granulated sugar tsp (2 mL) garlic powder (controversially optional) cup (60 mL) white vinegar 1. In a large bowl, mix together the evaporated milk and sugar until the sugar is dissolved. If using the garlic powder, add it and mix until well incorporated. 2. Slowly drizzle in the vinegar, folding it into the mixture. Do not stir too aggressively or whisk, or the sauce will split and clump. 3. Transfer the sauce to a glass container and refrigerate, sealed, for at least 1 hour before serving. Excerpted from Where We Ate: A Field Guide to Canadas Restaurants, Past and Present by Gabby Peyton. Copyright 2023 Gabby Peyton. Published in Canada by Appetite by Random House, a division of Penguin Random House Canada Limited. Reproduced by arrangement with the Publisher. All rights reserved. Diane Galambos is a food writer who shares stories and recipes at her blog kitchenbliss.ca. Follow her on Instagram https://instagram.com/kitchenblissca Read more about: SHARE: OTTAWA - Former Quebec finance minister Carlos Leitao has been appointed to the Bank of Canadas board of directors. Leitao was Quebecs finance minister between 2014 and 2018. He represented the provincial riding of Robert-Baldwin in Quebecs National Assembly from 2014 until his retirement from politics in 2022. Before entering politics, Leitao had a 30-year career in the Canadian banking and financial sector, including stints at the Royal Bank of Canada and Laurentian Bank Securities. Leitaos appointment was announced by federal Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland on Wednesday. His term will last until Feb. 28, 2025. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 31, 2023. Read more about: SHARE: Air Canada pilots have opened the gate to launch negotiations on a new collective agreement a year early. The Air Line Pilots Association the union representing the pilots of Canadas largest airline said in an email to the Star on Tuesday that Air Canada pilots have invoked a clause to end their 10-year collective agreement ahead of time and initiate bargaining a new one as early as this summer. The union said pilots are aiming to negotiate a contract that addresses career progression and job security issues for its pilots, and closes the growing wage gap between the U.S. and Canada. Air Canada said in an email the existing contract, which has been in place for nearly a decade, is a testimony to the productive relationship we have with our pilots. We expect the upcoming negotiations to be conducted in this same spirit. The current agreement with pilots is in force until Sept. 29, Air Canada said. Since landing on a 10-year collective agreement in 2014, Air Canada pilots have received a two per cent pay hike each year. This news comes on the heels of a 24 per cent pay bump over four years won by WestJet pilots, Canadas second-largest airline, earlier this month, in a deal that narrowly dodged a strike at the last minute, with some 1,800 pilots demanding better wages poised to walk off the job. The Air Canada Pilots Association whose 4,500-odd members only two weeks ago joined the Air Line Pilots Association, which WestJet flight crews also belong to can kick off negotiations with a notice to bargain as early as June 1. The merger means 95 per cent of professional Canadian pilots are represented by a single union, according to Charlene Hudy, the Air Canada unions council chair. While strike action is unlikely this summer, passengers can expect the threat of Air Canada pilots walking off the job sometime around the winter holiday season or spring 2024, said John Gradek, a former Air Canada executive who now lectures in aviation management at McGill University. The odds are that there will be a threat of a strike, Gradek said. Thats how ALPA typically works and we saw that with WestJet. When asked about the likelihood of strike action taking place, Air Canada said it would be premature to speculate about negotiations because a notice to bargain to begin talks has not yet been received. Labour shortages continue to plague the aviation industry, with a scarcity of workers in areas ranging from air traffic control to ground handling as the sector begins to take off again after the pandemic collapse and subsequent travel turmoil. Last year, Toronto Pearson International Airport was ranked the worst airport in the world for delays, with thousands of flights delayed or cancelled, leaving passengers stranded and bags lost in the wake of COVID flight restrictions being lifted. Since then, airport employers have hired 10,000 employees, giving it 22 per cent more staff, or 50,000 workers. The increase includes the hiring of 130 workers announced last week to help in critical areas such as busing, baggage handling and terminal operations. However, industry experts say carriers, airport and personnel are still being pushed to their limits, and the move by Air Canada pilots should come as no surprise, said David Gillen, director of the Centre for Transportation Studies at University of British Columbia. Its exactly what you would expect when you have a scarcity of resources, Gillen said. The pilots are really being asked to perform right on the edge in the sense that every aircraft is being utilized to the fullest. In March, pilots with Delta Air Lines secured a deal that includes a 34 per cent pay hike over four years. American Airlines pilots authorized a strike amid contract negotiations earlier this month before reaching a preliminary deal last week. United Airlines pilots are also in the middle of talks, pushing for even higher pay than their Delta counterparts, as well as comparable quality-of-life provisions. Those might include clauses that prevent airlines from requiring pilots to accept assignments on days off. With files from The Canadian Press Read more about: SHARE: Faraidoon Azimi, who has been smoking cigarettes for over a decade and is trying to quit, got some encouragement Wednesday. Azimi, who lives in the Niagara area, said he has been planning to kick the habit, step by step, in a few months, partly because he can barely tolerate the harsh images on cigarette packages. The federal government announced Wednesday it will soon add health warnings to tipping paper of individual cigarettes, little cigars, tubes and other tobacco products, making Canada the first country to take such an approach. I think its an effective and unique move, Azimi said. What we had on packages, now on each cigarette, is something that makes you uncomfortable and is difficult to ignore. In about a year, smokers in Canada will see a new health warning label printed on individual cigarettes, in addition to the graphic warnings on packages. Tobacco use continues to kill 48,000 Canadians each year, said Carolyn Bennett, minister of mental health and addictions and associate minister of health. We are taking action by being the first country in the world to label individual cigarettes with health warning messages. The regulation is set to come into force Aug. 1. A Health Canada statement said it will be implemented through a phased approach that will see most measures on the Canadian market within the year. Retailers in Canada will carry tobacco product packages that feature the new health-related messages by the end of April 2024, it said. King-size cigarettes will be the first to have individual health warning labels, to be sold by retailers by the end of July 2024. Regular-size cigarettes, little cigars with tipping paper and tubes will be sold by retailers by end of April 2025. Tobacco use continues to be one of Canadas most significant public health problems, and is the countrys leading preventable cause of disease and premature death in Canada, Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos said in a statement. Azimi said he has been trying to ignore the packages when he buys them. But you cannot with each cigarette. You either quit smoking or wrap it with an extra paper which you cannot do. Studies around the world have backed the idea of printing warnings on packaging, including on individual cigarettes. BMC Public Health, in research published in 2021, found that graphic warning photos on cigarette packages were effective in eliciting negative response to tobacco smoking, modifying beliefs about tobacco dangers, and increasing reported intention to quit in Shanghai, China. According to the study, intention to quit smoking due to warning labels is high among current smokers in Shanghai, especially in female smokers, smokers with light tobacco burden and mild nicotine dependence. In a commentary in the Canadian Medical Association Journal in 2018, researcher Crawford Moodie of the Centre for Tobacco Control Research at the University of Stirling in Scotland said that some smokers focus on branding, even when warnings on packages are prominent. He said that would be more difficult with warnings on each cigarette when smokers light it and see it in an ashtray. The government brought in pictorial warnings on tobacco product packages in 2000. Images and messages that are currently on cigarettes and little cigars have been in place since 2011. Health Canada says the moves are part of a strategy to reach less than five per cent tobacco use by 2035. Data from the 2020 Canadian Tobacco and Nicotine Survey showed 10 per cent of Canadians 15 or over said they currently smoked cigarettes. Rob Cunningham, a senior policy analyst at the Canadian Cancer Society, said the requirement for a health warning directly on every cigarette is a precedent-setting measure that will reach everyone who smokes with every puff. This innovative measure will be accompanied by enhanced warnings on the package exterior, and health messages on the package interior that are internationally unique, he said. The new regulations deserve strong support. A second set of six warnings is expected to be printed on cigarettes in 2026. Cunningham said he believes the new approach will provoke discussion, and be copied by other countries, including Australia and Norway, which cited Canadas intention in June 2022. With files from The Canadian Press With files from The Canadian Press SHARE: ST. JOHNS, N.L. - The premier of Newfoundland and Labrador played it cool Wednesday as Norwegian energy giant Equinor announced it was suspending plans to develop a $16-billion oil project in the provinces offshore. Andrew Furey said the news that Equinor would postpone the Bay du Nord project for up to three years came as a surprise. But he said he remains confident the oilfield would still be developed. Of course were disappointed in the delay, but I would caution everybody that its just that: its a delay, he told reporters, adding that Equinor has not given any indication it was interested in walking away from the development. The resource is still there. Its not going anywhere, Furey said. Bay du Nord comprises five different discovery areas off the provinces east coast that are said to hold a total of 979 million barrels of recoverable oil, according to recent estimates from Newfoundland and Labradors offshore oil regulator. The development would open the provinces fifth offshore oilfield and be its first deepwater oil project. Newfoundland and Labradors latest budget factored in economic gains from the Bay du Nord project beginning in 2025. Equinor announced its strategic postponement of the project in a news release Wednesday as the provinces annual energy industry conference was taking place in downtown St. Johns, N.L. It said Bay du Nord had seen significant cost increases in recent months, mostly due to volatile market conditions. Though the company had not yet confirmed it would make the full investment necessary to carry the project through to completion, there was early-phase work underway, including concept studies and assessments, spokesperson Alex Collins said in an email. She said the company will use the delay to optimize the project and work toward a successful development. Equinor reported a net profit of $28.7 billion in 2022, up from $8.6 billion a year earlier. The postponement is the second bout of bad news for Newfoundland and Labradors offshore industry this year. The Terra Nova oilfield, which is majority owned by Suncor Energy, is also delayed. The field hasnt produced oil since 2019, and during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic it seemed Suncor and its partners would abandon it entirely. The provincial government ultimately gave Suncor $205 million to guarantee the company would carry on with work to extend the life of the field by about 10 years. The province also made adjustments to its royalty scheme to give Terra Nova owners another $300 million over that decade. Suncor had hoped the field would be back in operation at some point this summer, but it has since removed any production or income forecasts from the project from its financial outlooks for the year. Furey said any worry now about the two oil projects is nowhere near the anxiety that gripped his government during the pandemic when it seemed that Suncor would walk away from Terra Nova. That is not the environment were in right now, he said. The federal government gave Bay du Nord environmental approval last April, drawing sharp criticism from environmentalists. Equinor and the Newfoundland and Labrador government have said the project will produce far fewer greenhouse gas emissions during extraction than any other project in Canada. But environmentalists and climate scientists counter that the bulk of the greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels are produced when they are burned. On Wednesday, Sierra Club Canada said the latest news shows Newfoundland and Labrador must wean itself off revenues from offshore oil. We know that expanding oil and gas extraction ... is unacceptable and that climate change will only be worse in three years time, spokesperson Connor Curtis said in a news release. This report from The Canadian Press was first published on May 31, 2023. SHARE: Several Grade 5 students were treated for broken bones and other injuries Wednesday after falling from a wooden structure at a popular tourist attraction during a school trip, but most were expected to return home by the end of the day. 17 schoolchildren and one adult were taken to hospital after falling 4 1/2 to six metres inside Fort Gibraltar in Winnipeg. Early initial reports were that 16 children had been injured in the fall, but officials later updated that total to 17. The children have been assessed at hospital, one has been admitted for observation and the rest have or will be discharged said Dr. Karen Gripp, medical director of the childrens hospital emergency department at Health Sciences Centre (HSC) in Winnipeg. One adult was also taken to hospital and is in stable condition. HSC says it was alerted to a potential mass casualty event and declared a Code Orange shortly after. It could have been so, so much worse, said Gripp. We were prepared for the worst. Gripp told reporters most of the injuries were orthopedic, meaning broken bones. There were no life-threatening injuries. All the children are reportedly between 10 and 11 years old and were students at St. Johns-Ravenscourt School. During a Grade 5 field trip to Fort Gibraltar this morning, there was an incident that resulted in emergency services transporting 17 members of the SJR community to hospital, Jim Keefe, the head of the privately run school told The Star. We contacted their parents and families. The remaining students and accompanying adults returned to school where faculty, staff and counsellors are caring for them. We are doing everything we can to support our Grade 5 students and teachers and their families, and ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time, said Keefe. According to Michelle Bessas, of paramedic operations, a call came before 10 a.m. for reports of children falling from a structure approximately four to six metres tall. She said 28 patients were assessed and 17 were transported to hospital. In a tweet, Manitoba premier Heather Stefanson said our thoughts go out to all the students, teachers and families of St. Johns-Ravenscourt affected by todays terrible accident at Fort Gibraltar. Thank you to all first responders for their immediate action. Scott Gillingham, Winnipegs mayor, also took to Twitter and said deeply concerned about the incident at Fort Gibraltar this morning involving a school group. My thoughts are with those injured and their families. Grateful for the swift response from Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Services. Fort Gibraltar is a venue in the St. Boniface neighbourhood that hosts functions as well as historical re-enactments. A resident in the area told reporters on the scene she saw at least two people taken away on stretchers. There were about five or six kids that walked out on their own with paramedics and got into a (response vehicle) to be assessed, said Chantelle Craig. Festival du Voyageur, which owns the fort, said it is co-operating with all authorities as it assesses the situation. Our thoughts are with all those who are affected by this difficult, sad and extremely unfortunate situation. We would like to thank first responders and personnel that responded quickly to the incident to prioritize the well-being of all those involved, Chantal Vielfaure, director of marketing, communications and sales, wrote in a statement. This is a difficult time for many, and we want to ensure that respect and support for those involved is of the utmost importance. The venue will be closed indefinitely. Editors Note June 1, 2023: This story has been updated to reflect the total number of children who were injured, from 16 to 17, and 1 adult, for a total of 18 people. With files from The Canadian Press TG Thea Gribilas is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Stars radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: tgribilas@thestar.ca Read more about: SHARE: In a move that has outraged parents, teachers and students, the York Catholic board will not fly the Pride flag outside of its main office in June a decision the province has no plans to reverse. Dina Mayr has been a teacher with York Catholic District School Board for 23 years and is the parent of a transgender child, who went to a school she taught at. She feels utterly ashamed to be a part of a system that made this decision. It seems to be a worldwide movement of hatred that has just infiltrated school boards, including our own, she said. While her son has now graduated, Mayr used to feel like he was safe with her advocating behind the scenes. If he was here today, in this climate, I would not feel the same way, Mayr said. I know of parents who had to pull their children out of our school system. I think that is a travesty. I cant believe that a Catholic school, a Catholic system can stand by and allow that to continue to happen. Education Minister Stephen Lecce said he is disappointed with the boards decision but stopped short of forcing them to reverse it. Speaking to reporters at Queens Park Tuesday afternoon, Lecce said he expects boards to support LGBTQ+ students by raising the flag or holding events, and noted other Catholic boards already showcase the flag outside their headquarters or schools. Ive expressed my disappointment with the decision by the board, Lecce said, but did not directly answer questions as to why he isnt going to order trustees to change course. We have been clear and consistent since this issue first arose, Lecce also said. Our message to children in our schools, particularly the LGBTQ+, is that we see them, we value them and we are proud as a government to stand with them. Every child in a publicly funded school should be supported, should feel affirmed and should feel safe. Trustees at the York Catholic District School Board which serves Lecces King-Vaughan riding voted 6-4 Monday night against flying the flag at its education centre during June, which is Pride month. The motion they voted on was specific to its main office, and did not include any schools. The board has a long-standing policy that allows only the Canadian flag to be flown on school properties; however, a gender, sexuality and Catholic education committee had recommended that the rainbow flag be raised at the head office in Aurora. The committees report noted that would be consistent with the pastoral mission of the Catholic Church, wouldnt undermine Catholic teachings and would be supportive of students. But board chair Frank Alexander told reporters that trustees were advised by Cardinal Thomas Collins (Archbishop Emeritus of Toronto) and the Archbishop of London that the flags dont align with our Catholic values. Thats fundamentally why I voted against it, he said, noting schools that fly the flag would face consequences. He said the board supports LGBTQ+ students and we do have a safe place, there are some things we need to fix, and certainly we will do that. Paolo De Buono, a Catholic teacher in another board who advocates for LGBTQ+ inclusion in Catholic schools, worries this decision might prompt school boards that currently raise the flag to reconsider their decision. De Buono was at the Monday night meeting and was seated near a former YCDSB student who after the vote began shaking, had difficulty standing and appeared to be having a breakdown, noting My sense is that they felt erased. The flag ban sparked controversy among students, staff and parents and at Queens Park, the opposition New Democrats pressed the issue. Suicide is the lead cause of death for young people and that number is multiplied many times for the 2SLGBT community and there continues to be a number of concerning hate-related incidents and yet this government remains silent, said New Democrat MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam. NDP MPP Chandra Pasma, her partys education critic, said under the ministers proposed Bill 98, the Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act, Lecce is more than happy to dictate rules and practices to school boards when it involves funding that hes not providing, like on mental health and reading and math. Heres something the minister could do that would actually protect kids, that doesnt require any resources and suddenly hes powerless to act? she said at Queens Park. She asked why Lecce doesnt simply direct all schools in Ontario to fly the Pride flag? In a memo to school board chairs sent late Tuesday afternoon, Lecce said all publicly funded schools must be safe spaces for all children, regardless of race, heritage, faith, sexuality, and gender. He added that recognizing that many 2SLGBTQ+ students face increasing levels of bullying, harassment, and mental health issues, it is my expectation that school boards will redouble their efforts to protect these students and ensure their inclusion within Ontario schools, he said in the memo, obtained by the Star. Pride month, which starts Thursday, must be celebrated in a constructive, positive and meaningful ways, noted Lecce. Last month, former premier Kathleen Wynne the provinces first openly gay leader took to social media to criticize Lecce saying he cant have it both ways and urged him to take a stand. On Tuesday, she posted that the YCDSBs move is a cowardly, shameful decision. It emboldens and validates homophobia and transphobia. Although some have demanded the government order the board to fly the flag, under the constitution Catholic schools are guaranteed control over non-denominational issues. York Catholic trustees Theresa McNicol, Maria Iafrate, Joseph DiMeo, Angela Saggese, Michaela Barbieri and chair Alexander voted against the flag flying. Meanwhile, trustees Elizabeth Crowe, Jennifer Wigston, Angela Grella and Carol Cotton supported the motion, which was put forth by student trustees Anthea Peta-Dragos and Jonah James, although the students votes dont officially count. James said the final decision was a slap in the face to students, whose voices werent heard. Initially, he and Peta-Dragos wanted the flag raised at all schools within the district, but lowered their expectations to just the Catholic Education Centre, for the month of June. The fact that even that didnt pass is embarrassing, James told the Star. How can you support someone without acknowledging them? Prior to the vote, trustees discussed the matter, with some saying they felt the flag was an empty gesture and others saying it would help students feel safe and included. Toronto teen Stephanie De Castro, the Catholic Board Council President for the Ontario Student Trustees Association, said creating safe spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ students should be a priority. Were really committed to ensuring that students leadership on this issue is heard and valued and we want to see progress continue, she said, adding the association would like to see the Pride flag flown during June at all Catholic school board buildings, including schools. Shes a student at Torontos Catholic school board, which in June raises the Pride flag at all schools and main office, and says the move benefits the entire school community, by demonstrating the boards commitment to a more inclusive space. At York Catholic, Alexander was asked why the YCDSB is one of a few remaining boards that wont fly the flag, and he said whats different about us is that we stand for our faith, we stand for Christ. The committees report, however, said our Catholicity calls us to be inclusive, compassionate, and empathetic. Pope Francis continues to urge all of us to welcome LGBTQ members into the church, to demonstrate tenderness, please, as God has for each one of us. PFLAG, an advocacy organization that supports LGBTQ+ youth, called the YCDSB unsafe for LGBTQ+ students, parents and community members seeking employment there. It is kept unsafe by a group of York Catholic Board Trustees who weaponize their faith against marginalized communities, said Tristan Coolman, president of the groups York Region chapter, in a statement. Editors Note June 1, 2023: This story was updated to name the two archbishops who said that the Pride flag does not align with our Catholic values. With files from Marissa Birnie SHARE: KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) A missing emergency room doctor from Missouri was found dead in Arkansas from an apparent gunshot wound, authorities confirmed Wednesday. But they are still investigating what happened in the week since he was last seen. A kayaker discovered the body of 49-year-old Dr. John Forsyth on Tuesday in Beaver Lake, a large reservoir in northwestern Arkansas, the Benton County Sheriffs Office said. No further information would immediately be released, authorities said, and they didnt specify if he was shot by someone else or if the wound was self-inflicted. The doctors unlocked vehicle with his wallet, two phones, a laptop and other items had been found Sunday near a city-run public pool in Cassville, the town in the Missouri Ozarks where he worked, said his brother Richard Forsyth. The body was found at a location about 20 miles (32 kilometers) away, Arkansas authorities say. Cassville is about 200 miles south of Kansas City. Surveillance video from the pool shows John Forsyths black Infiniti pulling into the parking lot, and a white SUV can be seen parking near him a few minutes later, his brother said in an interview Wednesday. Were devastated, especially at the nature of his passing, Richard Forsyth said. He said Wednesday evening that police had given the family no new details other than investigations into his brothers death and how he went missing were continuing in both states. The last time the two brothers met in person was at dinner on Wednesday, May 17. I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future, Richard Forsyth said in an earlier interview. John Forsyth had recently become engaged to be married, his brother said, and his fiancee was the last known person to communicate with him, texting at around 7 a.m. on Sunday, May 21. The doctor was reported missing that same day when he didnt arrive for work at Mercy Hospital, police have said. Richard Forsyth said the family was mystified by his brothers death and rejected the theory that he might have taken his own life. I dont believe it, he said. John would never do that. I wont accept that possibility. John Forsyth was the father of eight children, his brother said, and was so dedicated to his work that he never missed a day, stayed in an RV near the hospital when he was on call, and was never late for his difficult shifts in the emergency room. His brother-in-law Jason Musgrave in a call with The Associated Press Wednesday from Ozark, Missouri, also rejected the idea of John Forsyth dying by suicide. I feel like it is foul play. I feel like it has to have been, Musgrave said, adding that it was also hard to imagine that anyone who knew him would want to hurt him. He was funny and engaging and the life of a party, Musgrave said. He said the news that his brother-in-laws body had been found had hit the family like a bus full of bricks. Messages seeking comment from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Cassville police on Wednesday were not immediately returned. When the doctors vehicle was found, several law enforcement agencies searched about a 9-mile (15-kilometer) radius around the aquatic park using people, dogs and drones. Forsyths family set up a Facebook page seeking information. Gina Forsyth-Farlaino said her brother was smart, confident, loved to help people and was devoted to his family. In the days since his disappearance, she said the family has heard at least three stories of people who he persuaded not to take their own lives. But Forsyth never mentioned those cases to his family, she recalled in an interview Wednesday from Price, Utah. I miss him terribly, Forsyth-Farlaino said. And Im devastated that hes not here. ___ Associated Press writer Lisa Baumann contributed from Bellingham, Washington. SHARE: WARSAW, Poland A priceless 16th century Italian painting that was looted by Nazi Germany during World War II and discovered in Japan has been returned to Poland, authorities in Warsaw said Wednesday. The Madonna with Child attributed to Alessandro Turchi, is the latest of some 600 looted artistic pieces that Poland has successfully repatriated. More than 66,000 so-called war losses remain unaccounted for. The painting was handed over during a ceremony at Polands Embassy in Tokyo Wednesday. Culture Minister Piotr Glinski told reporters in Warsaw that the baroque painting was on the Nazis list of the 521 most valuable pieces of art among the tens of thousands of artworks that they looted when they occupied Poland between 1939-45. He said it was not easy to explain the history behind the looted works as well as the need for their return. But he said the Madonna with Child was returned following negotiations with the Japanese side and the Mainichi Auction Inc. as well as the person who was in possession of the painting have decided to return it to Poland, without any costs. Agata Modzelewska, head of the ministrys department for restitution of culture items, said the Polish side always stresses in negotiations that returning looted art is the best moral and ethical gesture. The painting was identified by ministry experts at an auction in Tokyo in 2022. It comes from a collection of Polands 18th century aristocrat Stanislaw Kostka-Potocki. In 1823, the painting was listed among art works belonging to another Polish aristocrat, Henryk Lubomirski, in the town of Przeworsk. It was looted during the war and was sold at a New York auction in the late 1990s. More and more of the looted objects are appearing at auctions because the memory (of their past) has weakened and the persons who are in their possession now do not have the full knowledge or are not aware of where the artwork is coming from, Modzelewska told The Associated Press. Poland has for decades actively sought to repatriate art looted during the war by the Nazis and Soviet troops. Read more about: SHARE: BEIJING (AP) Beijing responded Wednesday to complaints from the United States about a Chinese fighter jets dangerous interception of an American Air Force reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the South China Sea by demanding an end to such flights. The incident adds to military, diplomatic and economic tensions between the countries over U.S. support for self-governing Taiwan, Chinas refusal to engage in dialogue between their armed forces and Beijings flying of a suspected spy balloon over the U.S. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters at a daily briefing that China would keep taking measures it deems necessary to safeguard its sovereignty. The U.S. should immediately stop these dangerous provocations, Mao said. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command called the Chinese planes actions an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver, adding to complaints that Chinas military has become significantly more aggressive over the past five years, intercepting U.S. aircraft and ships in the region. China says it owns the South China Sea virtually in its entirety, a claim not recognized internationally and directly challenged by nations along its coast including the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia. In a statement Tuesday, the U.S. military said the pilot of the Chinese J-16 fighter jet flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135 conducting routine operations in international airspace last Friday. Military-to-military contacts between the sides have all but evaporated in recent years amid a historic decline in governmental relations, even as trade and personal exchanges remain strong. Further dampening prospects for a reduction in tensions, China said its defense chief will not meet with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when the two men attend a security conference in Singapore over the weekend. Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday that the plane incident showed why it is vital for the U.S. and China to maintain dialogue at a senior level in order to prevent miscommunication and avoid miscalculations that could lead to conflict. He said it was regrettable that Beijing had rejected Austins request for a meeting with the Chinese defense minister. I think it only underscores why it is so important that we have regular, open lines of communication, including by the way between our defense ministers, Blinken said at a news conference at the end of an EU-US trade and technology meeting in Lulea, Sweden. As weve said repeatedly, while we have a real competition with China, we also want to make sure that doesnt veer into conflict and the most important starting point for that are regular lines of communication, he said. China has said the U.S. is entirely responsible for the breakdown in communications, but has not publicly given a reason. With its Peoples Liberation Army as the worlds largest standing military, which answers directly to the ruling Communist Party, China frequently challenges military aircraft from the U.S. and its allies in the South and East China Seas, and the Taiwan Strait connecting the two. Such behavior led to a 2001 in-air collision between a Chinese fighter and U.S. Navy surveillance plane in which the Chinese plane was lost and pilot killed. In Tuesdays statement, the Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, and expects all other countries to do the same. ___ Associated Press writer Matthew Lee in Oslo, Norway, contributed to this report. Read more about: SHARE: Since the beginning of May 2023, the Russian Federation has increasingly ceded the initiative in the war against Ukraine and is more likely to react to Ukraine's actions than to actively advance towards its own military goals, according to a defense intelligence report tweeted by the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland on Wednesday morning. "During May 2023, Russia has launched 20 nights of one-way-attack uncrewed aerial vehicle and cruise missile attacks deep inside Ukraine. Russia has had little success in its likely aims of neutralising Ukraine's improved air defences and destroying Ukrainian counter-attack forces. On the ground, it has redeployed security forces to react to partisan attacks inside western Russia," the report notes. "Operationally, Russian commanders are likely attempting to generate reserve forces and position them where they believe a Ukrainian counter-attack will occur. However, this has probably been undermined by uncommitted forces instead being sent to fill gaps in the front line around Bakhmut," the report notes. BULBOACA, Moldova (AP) Final preparations for a major summit of European leaders were being made in Moldova on Wednesday, a sign of the Eastern European countrys ambitions to draw closer to the West and break with its Russian-dominated past amid the war in neighboring Ukraine. Moldova, Europes poorest country which is cradled by Ukraine on three sides, is putting its best foot forward for the second meeting of the European Political Community on Thursday, a gathering which will bring together around 50 leaders from 47 countries in what organizers are calling the largest international event in the countrys history. In the capital, Chisinau, and on the 35-kilometer (21-mile) route to the rural summit venue, roads were being resurfaced, crosswalks painted and EU flags hung in anticipation of the arrival of the heads of state and government from European Union countries and other continental nations. The choice to hold the summit in Moldova, a former Soviet republic of around 2.6 million people, is seen as a message to the Kremlin both by the EU and by the pro-Western Moldovan government, which received EU candidate status in June of last year, at the same time as Ukraine. The attendance of heavy hitters like German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen speaks to the blocs commitment to ensuring Russias ambitions to control the country do not go unchallenged. One of the big messages is the place where this meeting is going to happen, said one EU official, who asked not to be identified. Youll sit in Moscow and youll see 47 countries in your immediate close neighborhood meeting together. Thats, I think, quite an important message, the official said. Russia is chronically critical of Moldovas lean toward the West, claiming this presents security concerns and shows the hegemonic intentions of the United States and its allies in the EU. Last week, after the deployment of the EU Partnership Mission to Moldova, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Gazulin said that the EU seeks to consolidate the pro-Western course pursued by the current leadership of Moldova (and) set up the country for confrontation with Russia, ignoring the interests and mood of the population. The increase in cooperation between Chisinau and NATO and the EU in the military-political sphere, of course, cannot but cause us concern, Gazulin said in an interview with state news agency RIA-Novosti. There has been consistent speculation that Russia would use the war in Ukraine as a bridgehead for taking control of Moldovas separatist region of Transnistria, where Russia already has a military contingent. On Monday, the head of the defense committee in the upper house of the Russian parliament, Viktor Bondarev, called for strengthening Russias military presence in Transnistria, along with other places, citing the growing malign influence of the United States in the region. Moldovan President Maia Sandu has warned of plots by Moscow to overthrow her government using external saboteurs. Several incidents have also occurred in recent months involving missiles that have traversed Moldovas skies and apparent debris from the war in Ukraine that has been found on its territory. Sandu has called the summit a testament to growing unity on the (European) continent, while Moldovan officials have pointed to the summits venue at Mimi Castle, an opulent late-19th-century winery only around 12 miles (20 kilometers) from both Ukraine and Transnistria, as a defiant signal of the EUs dedication to the region in the face of Russias aggression. The summit is a resolute reaffirmation of our unwavering dedication to peace, a strong condemnation of Russias invasion (and of Moldovas) continued solidarity with Ukraine, Sandu said. It is the second such meeting of the EPC, the brainchild of French President Macron, who envisioned it as a new space for political and security cooperation, cooperation in the energy sector, in transport, investments, infrastructures, the free movement of persons and in particular, of our youth. Yet while the war in Ukraine has served to boost unity between the EU and countries to its east, the unwieldy group of leaders will not be able to hide some of its internal conflicts. One major meeting is expected to include EU Council President Charles Michel, Scholz and Macron, along with the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan, two Caucasian neighbor nations that have been fighting a war over a contested territory. Another lighting rod will be the recent flare-up in ethnic tensions between neighboring Serbia and Kosovo, whose leaders are also expected at the summit. ___ Casert reported from Brussels and Heintz from Tallinn, Estonia. SHARE: CASSVILLE, Mo. - The body of a Missouri emergency room doctor who has been missing for more than a week has been found in northwest Arkansas, his brother told The Associated Press on Tuesday. Dr. John Forsyth was last heard from in text messages around 7 a.m. May 21. His brother, Richard Forsyth, said authorities called the family Tuesday night to say his brother was found deceased. He said he and other family members were waiting for more details from detectives. Messages left with the Missouri State Highway Patrol were not immediately returned. Police said John Forsyth, 49, was reported missing when he failed to show up for work May 21 at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, a town of 3,100 residents deep in the Missouri Ozarks. His black Infiniti was found parked in a remote area near an aquatic park in Cassville. The car was unlocked with his wallet, two phones and a laptop and other items inside. It doesnt seem like a person who left with a plan, Richard Forsyth told the AP earlier Tuesday. Right now, we really dont have any breaks in the case. Im confused, and Im worried. And I dont like this one bit. Several law enforcement agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, searched about a 9-mile radius around the park using people, dogs and drones. Forsyths family set up a Facebook page seeking information. My brother has now been missing for week. Im grieving, Im afraid, and it feels like the world has tipped into sheer chaos, his sister, Tiffany Andelin, wrote Monday. Richard Forsyth said the last person his brother texted with was a woman to whom his brother had recently gotten engaged. The last time Richard saw him was a few days before he went missing. We had dinner Wednesday before he disappeared, and we sat and talked for three hours, Richard Forsyth said. I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future. Phone and email messages left Tuesday with Cassville police were not immediately returned. Police have said there were no signs of foul play. Richard Forsyth said his brother had been at the Cassville hospital for about 15 years. He described John Forsyth as a doting father, family physician and part-time math nerd. He really cared about his patients, Richard Forsyth said, adding that his brother stayed in his RV near the hospital when he was on-call. And he loved his kids. SHARE: CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) Thirteen coal companies owned by the family of West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice are being sued over unpaid penalties for previous mining law violations that the federal government says pose health and safety risks or threaten environmental harm. Justice, who was not named in the lawsuit, accused the Biden administration of retaliation. A Republican two-term governor, Justice announced in April that he is running for Democrat Joe Manchins U.S. Senate seat in 2024. The lawsuit filed Tuesday says that over the past five years, the U.S. Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement cited the companies for more than 130 violations and issued more than 500 cessation orders. The lawsuit says the total amount of penalties, fees, interest and administrative expenses owed by the defendants is about $7.6 million. U.S. Attorney Christopher Kavanaugh of the Western District of Virginia said the defendants were ordered more than 50 times to stop mining activities until the violations were corrected. Today, the filing of this complaint continues the process of holding defendants accountable for jeopardizing the health and safety of the public and our environment, Kavanaugh said in a statement. Among the violations, the companies failed to ensure the seismic stability of a dam, to maintain sediment-control measures, to clear rock and debris from a haul road after a rock fall, and to properly dispose of non-coal waste. Our environmental laws serve to protect communities against adverse effects of industrial activities including surface coal mining operations, Assistant U.S. Attorney General Todd Kim of the U.S. Justice Departments Environment and Natural Resources Division said in a news release. Through this suit, the Justice Department seeks to deliver accountability for defendants repeated violations of the law and to recover the penalties they owe as a result of those violations. Justice listed 112 coal, agricultural and other businesses on a financial disclosure form that he filed this year with the state Ethics Commission, including seven that were placed in a blind trust in 2017. His worth peaked at $1.7 billion, but he was taken off Forbes prestigious list of billionaires in 2021. The governors companies have been perennially dogged in litigation over unpaid bills. He has tried to put distance between himself and the businesses, saying that his two adult children now run them. His son, Jay Justice, is named in the lawsuit, which lists the coal companies principal place of business in Roanoke, Virginia. A message left for Jay Justice in Roanoke wasnt immediately returned Wednesday Jim Justice said he didnt know details of the lawsuit but expects to be briefed by his son. During his weekly media availability Wednesday, the governor again tried to put space between himself and his companies while also pointing a finger at the Biden administration. Ive announced as a Republican that Im running for the U.S. Senate. The Biden administration is aware of the fact that with a win for the U.S. Senate and everything, we could very well flip the Senate, Justice said. Theres a lot at stake right now. ___ Lavoie reported from Richmond, Virginia SHARE: NEW YORK (AP) Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is expected to launch a Republican presidential campaign next week in New Hampshire. Christie, who also ran in 2016, is planning to make the announcement at a town hall Tuesday evening at Saint Anselm Colleges New Hampshire Institute of Politics, according to a person familiar with his thinking who spoke on condition of anonymity to confirm Christies plans. The timing, which was first reported by Axios, comes after several longtime Christie advisers started a super political action committee to support his expected candidacy. The Associated Press had previously reported that Christie was expected to enter the race imminently. Christie has cast himself as the only potential candidate willing to aggressively take on former President Donald Trump, the current front-runner for the nomination. Christie, a former federal prosecutor, was a longtime friend and adviser to Trump, but broke with Trump over his refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election. Christie has since emerged as a leading and vocal critic of the former president. Christie, who is currently polling at the bottom of the pack, dropped out of the 2016 presidential race a day after finishing sixth in New Hampshires primary. In addition to Trump, Christie would be joining a GOP field that includes Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, U.S. Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and biotech entrepreneur and anti-woke activist Vivek Ramaswamy. North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum is expected to announce his candidacy on June 7, according to two GOP operatives. And former Vice President Mike Pence is also expected to launch a campaign soon. Allies believe that Christie, who has been working as an ABC News analyst, has a unique ability to communicate. They say his candidacy could help prevent a repeat of 2016, when Trumps rivals largely refrained from directly attacking the New York businessman, wrongly assuming he would implode on his own. Christie has also said repeatedly that he will not run if he does not see a path to victory. Im not a paid assassin, he recently told Politico. While Christie is expected to spend much of his time in early-voting New Hampshire, as he did in 2016, advisers believe the path to the nomination runs through Trump and they envision an unconventional, national campaign for Christie with a focus on garnering media attention and directly engaging with Trump. SHARE: HENDERSON, Ky. (AP) A man who escaped from a northwest Ohio prison earlier this month died from drowning, according to autopsy results released Wednesday. Bradley Gillespie, 50, was reported missing May 23 from the Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution in Lima along with another man who authorities said escaped alongside him. Authorities determined the two escaped by concealing themselves in a trash container. The other man, James Lee, 47, was caught the next day in Henderson, Kentucky, after a police pursuit of a stolen car the men were in ended in a crash and a foot chase, but Gillespie avoided capture. His body was spotted Sunday in the Ohio River, not far from the area where he was last seen. Henderson is a city across the river from Indiana and about 350 miles (560 kilometers) southwest of Lima. The Henderson County coroners office released the preliminary autopsy results Wednesday and said toxicology results wont be available for several weeks. Gillespie was imprisoned since 2016 and was convicted of a double homicide. Lee was serving a sentence imposed in 2021 for burglary and safecracking. A major and three corrections officers at the prison have been placed on paid administrative leave, and similar action may be taken against others as the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections internal investigation continues, officials have said. A criminal investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol is also ongoing. SHARE: Quebecs ethics commissioner has cleared Economy Minister Pierre Fitzgibbon, saying he did not breach the ethics code by participating in a pheasant hunt last year on a private island southeast of Montreal. Ariane Mignolet tabled her report at the national assembly today after conducting a lengthy investigation into the actions of Fitzgibbon over the hunting trip. Opposition parties had called for a probe after noting the island belongs to businessmen whose companies benefited from subsidies granted through Fitzgibbons department. Mignolet says the line between personal and professional spheres was not crossed in this case, and the invitation to the hunt was in the context of a purely private relationship. She says the invitation was acceptable as it was not made in exchange for an intervention or a stance taken by the minister, nor was it likely to influence him in the performance of his duties. Last December, Fitzgibbon said there was nothing improper about his involvement in the invitation-only hunt, which takes place on Province Island in traditional Austrian costume. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 31, 2023. Read more about: SHARE: OTTAWA - The Federal Court of Appeal has overturned a judges declaration that four Canadian men being held in Syria are entitled to Ottawas help to return home. In a ruling released Wednesday, a three-member panel of the Court of Appeal said the federal government is not obligated under the law to repatriate the men. The Canadians are among the many foreign nationals in Syrian camps and jails run by Kurdish forces that reclaimed the strife-torn region from the extremist group Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. The latest ruling sets aside a January decision by Federal Court Justice Henry Brown, who directed Ottawa to request repatriation of the men from the squalid conditions as soon as reasonably possible and provide them with passports or emergency travel documents. Brown said the men were also entitled to have a representative of the federal government travel to Syria to help facilitate their release once their captors agree to hand them over. The men include Jack Letts, whose parents John Letts and Sally Lane have waged a campaign to pressure Ottawa to come to his aid. The Federal Court of Appeal made a clear choice to perpetuate the arbitrary detention and torture of my son and the other Canadian detainees, Lane said Wednesday. The decision is nothing but victim-blaming and narrow legalese that stands in utter contempt of human rights law and fails to rise to the challenge of the moment. From the very start, Canada has held the key to their release, and it refuses to unlock the prison doors that the Kurds are willing to hold open for them. The identities and circumstances of the three other Canadian men are not publicly known. The federal government had argued that Brown mistakenly conflated the recognized Charter right of citizens to enter Canada with a right to return effectively creating a new right for citizens to be brought home by the Canadian government. The Federal Court of Appeal agreed, saying the judges interpretation requires the Government of Canada to take positive, even risky action, including action abroad, to facilitate the mens right to enter Canada. Such a right would have potentially limitless scope. It would cover cases ranging from the repatriation of someone detained abroad for whatever reason, including the alleged violation of foreign law in a foreign land, to the payment of ransom to foreigners holding a Canadian citizen hostage. The Court of Appeal stressed that Canadian state conduct did not lead to the men being in northeastern Syria, prevent them from entering Canada, or cause or continue their plight. The respondents own conduct and persons abroad who have control over them alone are responsible. The appeal judges said while the government is not constitutionally or otherwise legally obligated to repatriate the men, their ruling should not be taken to discourage the Government of Canada from making efforts on its own to bring about that result. Lawyer Lawrence Greenspon, who represents the three men other than Letts, said Wednesday their families were disappointed with the result. He said they are seriously looking at appealing by way of an application for a hearing in the Supreme Court of Canada. Amid the legal proceedings, Greenspon reached an agreement with the federal government earlier this year to bring home six Canadian women and 13 children who had been part of the court action. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 31, 2023. Read more about: SHARE: OTTAWA - Months after arguing Nigerias ruling party is responsible for terrorist acts, the Trudeau government has sent a cabinet minister to celebrate the swearing-in of its new president. This week, Diversity and Inclusion Minister Ahmed Hussen visited Abuja to attend the inauguration of President Bola Tinubu, whose All-Progressive Congress party has ruled Nigeria since 2015. Yet in Immigration and Refugee Board filings, Canada called the party an organization that engaged in subversion of democratic processes as they are understood in Canada and said it was responsible for numerous acts of terrorism. That phrasing appears in a December 2022 immigration decision in which the adjudicator rejected Ottawas attempt to have an unnamed man deported to Nigeria. Canada argued that the presidents party has used armed thugs/men to intimidate voters and eliminate political opponents and incited violence between groups since the end of military rule in 1999, the case file reads. The ruling found that the burden required in proving the allegations of terrorism and subversion of a democratic process have not been met. The adjudicator noted that Canada pointed to statements from politicians affiliated with the party who it argued were inciting violence, when the comments appeared instead to be strident opinion. One person that government lawyers cited was a member of an entirely different party. During other immigration hearings, Canada has also made claims against Nigerias other main political group, the Peoples Democratic Party, accusing it of supporting terrorism. Nigerias high commission in Ottawa has not yet responded to a request for comment. Ebenezer Obadare, a senior fellow for Africa studies at the Council on Foreign Relations, said he and others who detest Nigerias governing party can only criticize it for not doing enough to prevent terrorism. To say that its responsible for (terrorism), that would be stretch. Its going too far, said Obadare. Its not a party that has sponsored terrorism. I have seen no evidence to support that. Global Affairs Canada referred questions about Ottawas terrorism claims to Public Safety Canada. Canadas ministerial attendance at Nigeria presidential inauguration is a concrete representation of Canadas continued interest and commitment to a very important country on the African continent, Global Affairs spokeswoman Patricia Skinner wrote in a statement. Canada is a champion of democratic and inclusive governance, and recognizes the ongoing peaceful transition of power in Africas largest democracy. Hussens visit comes as the Trudeau government continually delays its plan for Africa, which is no longer being described as a strategy akin to one the government launched last fall for the Indo-Pacific. Instead, the Liberals plan to issue a framework primarily focused on how Canadas diplomatic footprint on the continent can better serve its trade and development goals. Obadare said Canada has a great reputation across most of Africa and should be forming deeper ties with like-minded countries on the continent, including through ministerial visits. Canada has a lot to gain from actually being more proactive. I think Canada is one of those countries that, increasingly I think, doesnt say enough about itself, he said. The onus should be on the country to put its money where its mouth is, and one of the ways to do that historically is to support the cause of liberal democracy. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 31, 2023. With files from David Fraser. Read more about: SHARE: The latest Alberta election has rendered the map of that province into a highly polarized territory, riven between Danielle Smiths re-elected, but weaker United Conservatives and the strongest opposition ever with Rachel Notleys New Democrats. The obvious conclusion is that the centre has disappeared in Alberta and the next four years will be a tug of war between the hard right and the hard left. But is that correct? Eight years ago, many smart people were predicting that Canada was headed in that direction too, with a 2015 election that was supposed to be a fight between the tired Conservative government and a surging New Democratic opposition, with the middle-of-the-road Liberals headed to oblivion. Thats not how it turned out, as it happened. The political centre in Canada is definitely being brushed by the forces of polarization and populism playing out to the south of this nation, but the Alberta election can also be seen as an ongoing struggle to find that political middle and just how hard that is. Smith did not campaign from the hard right, and in fact had to do some work to keep her past extreme rhetoric whether on vaccines or the convoy from damaging her chances. Notley, meanwhile, worked similarly to persuade Albertans that she was not the far-left, free-spending alternative her rivals portrayed her as. The election vote may have produced a divided Alberta, but the campaign itself was a fight for the middle. Ontarians have seen this movie. Premier Doug Ford came to office with a hard-right, populist reputation, balanced against a strong NDP opposition, with Liberals kicked to third place. A combination of factors over the past five years, including the pandemic, has turned Ford into more of a centrist, as eager to work with Justin Trudeau as he is to avoid the harsher conservatism of federal leader Pierre Poilievre. Abacus Data was in the field polling in the days before the Alberta vote and predicted Smiths UCP was headed for a win. Abacus CEO David Coletto said hes wary of seeing Albertas election as any guide to where the centre now stands in Canadian politics. I dont think theres a firm, anchored centre in Canadian public opinion, Coletto said. Instead, I think the centre shifts depending on the issue, the context and the urgency of an issue. He points to the health-care debate as an example of a roving political centre, which moves depending on whether Canadians are feeling optimistic or anxious about the economic environment. And so, I think its hard to identify a centre point. As Coletto saw it, Albertans werent so much polarized around specific issues but on the general direction or outlook. Smith and Notley epitomized those choices. I think it was an election that challenged the very nature of what it means to be Albertan: New versus old Alberta; urban versus rural; modern versus traditional. While it would be a mistake to draw too many comparisons between Alberta politics and whats happening on the federal stage, all the national parties will no doubt be reflecting on what it means to reach for the centre of the electorate, as Notley and Smith did in their own ways. After all, Coletto notes, thats where the majority of Canada lives. I will say that most Canadians the vast majority are not dogmatic about most issues, he said. In all the years Ive done public opinion research, Ive rarely found an issue that most people distribute to ends of the spectrum. Most seek compromise and balance. Politics, as its played right now, isnt configured to debate compromise and balance, however, so you saw federal Conservative and New Democrat leaders claiming their share of vindication in the Alberta result. Poilievre, who endorsed Smith in the campaigns final days, called her victory a slap at the woke politics of the Liberals and NDP, while Jagmeet Singh said he was taking comfort in how Notley had gained seats in Mondays vote. Just this week, a thoughtful, long-time Conservative who knows the current leader well was telling me that Poilievre does not think there is just one political spectrum, and we should expect to see him play a long game with some hard-right edges and other policies more to the centre. As Smith learned the hard way, Poilievre may want to keep some distance between his party and the more extreme views of the convoy and anti-vaxxer crowd. Singh and Trudeau, on the other hand, will be trying to persuade Canadians that their working agreement represents the practical, progressive middle of the road. Albertas election doesnt represent a destiny of any sorts for national politics writ large, but its another warning against writing off the political centre in Canada. Political parties may be polarized, but the population isnt at least, not yet. Susan Delacourt is an Ottawa-based columnist covering national politics for the Star. Reach her via email: sdelacourt@thestar.ca or follow her on Twitter: @susandelacourt Read more about: SHARE: A rare climbdown by Premier Doug Fords Progressive Conservatives on an ill-fated housing plan for prime agricultural land left Housing Minister Steve Clark bruised and critics saying a government with MPPs across rural Ontario is clueless on a key farm issue. I respect it, Clark said Wednesday in the wake of the policy change that followed a backlash from more than a dozen farm groups, including the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, and beef and dairy farmers. The National Farmers Union and other organizations had voiced their strong opposition to proposals in a broader government effort to build more housing, allowing farmers to sever three lots from their farm properties for homebuilding. Ontarios productive farmland is a scarce resource these policy changes put the sustainability of that land and the food system it provides at great risk, they warned earlier this month in a joint statement. Weve now moved away from that, confirmed Clark, who weeks ago boasted the proposal would allow farmers to sever lots for children or workers to build homes on as Ontario tries to reach a target of 1.5 million new homes by 2031. The policy bungle is telling because Fords PCs dominate the southern Ontario farm belt, suggesting the government is out of touch, opposition parties said. Its clueless, Green Leader Mike Schreiner told the Star, noting prime farmland makes up less that five per cent of all land in the province and calling the proposal a frontal assault on agriculture. Farm groups had warned it would fragment farmland, make it harder for farmers to do their jobs, limit the growth of farms, drive up the price of farmland, lead to conflict between farmers and neighbours particularly over odours and noise and permanently take valuable land out of food production. Ontario Federation of Agriculture president Peggy Brekveld said that would threaten the long-term sustainability of both farming and the food system we all depend on. New Democratic Party Leader Marit Stiles said the proposal was terrible, and that the reaction shows the government had not consulted with the agricultural community before making it. I dont know where this idea came from, she said. Agricultural groups welcomed the governments reversal. We understand and support the need to increase the housing supply in Ontario, but we also want to ensure that housing is developed without encroaching on Ontarios farmland, which is our most precious natural resource, they said in a statement. Brekveld said the best strategy for more housing is directing growth to urban and rural areas that are already settled and close to sewer and other infrastructure, not carving space out of farmers fields. Housing needs can be met in serviced areas using much less land, she said. The provincial budget in March forecast about 80,000 new housing starts annually over the next three years, well below the 150,000 needed annually to meet the governments 2031 goal. Read more about: SHARE: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with American actor Misha Collins, who visited Kyiv and became an ambassador of the United24 fundraising platform in the direction of humanitarian demining, according to the website of the Ukrainian head of state on Wednesday. "When we liberate our territories from invaders, we get a lot of problems because of the mined area. Today we have more than 200,000 square kilometers of mined areas. And we feel a big shortage of equipment to cope with such a vast territory," Zelenskyy said. For his part, Collins said that his friend, British journalist and photographer Giles Duley, once stepped on an explosive device in Afghanistan and lost both legs and an arm, so it is a personal matter for him to help in humanitarian demining. Duley, who also attended the meeting, added that his Legacy of War Foundation also raises funds for mine action and has already become an official partner of the United24 platform in the UK. Collins stressed that he is extremely passionate about participating in this United24 project. "I feel like it's my role as an ambassador to spread the word and tell the story of what's happening in Ukraine to my audience around the world and get attention so that global support for Ukraine continues," the actor stressed. In addition to the meeting with Zelenskyy, as part of the visit, Collins will visit Chernihiv region, where he will get acquainted with the work of Ukrainian deminers. The president of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), deputy George Simion, announced on Wednesday that the party's parliamentary groups submitted to the Standing Bureaus of the two Chambers a statement "to be adopted" regarding traditional families, specifying that his party wants a confirmation "on the part of all parliamentary groups that they support the natural family". "The groups from the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate of the AUR submitted, in the Standing Bureaus of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate, a declaration to be adopted regarding the support of the natural family. We hope, in the Senate and now in the Standing Bureau of the Chamber of Deputies, for this declaration to be adopted. (...) It is very important that Romania, which has not defended itself regarding that case - the hypothetical marriages between persons of the same sex, should do so. The Romanian government has three months at its disposal to contest this provision. AUR wants a confirmation from all the parliamentary groups that they support the natural family," George Simion told a press conference.AGERPRES MP Dan Tanasa of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) says the issue of visits by Hungarian officials to Romania are "unacceptable," requesting the government and the President to "clear up" this matter immediately, claiming that the President of Hungary and other Hungarian officials are carrying out activities in Romania of a "revisionist character, actions hostile to Romania." "AUR is calling on the government of Romania and President Klaus Iohannis to clarify the issue of Hungarian officials' visits to Romania (...). We consider this situation unacceptable. AUR has constantly signalled that under the pretext of private visits, the President of Hungary - as well as other Hungarian officials - carry out in Romania actions of a revisionist character, actions hostile to Romania and that insult the dignity and honour of the Romanians," Tanasa told a news conference on Wednesday. He added that the reaction of the Romanian officials is limited to "some ordinary protest messages." "Every time, the reaction of Romanian officials - of the President, of the Foreign Ministry - boils down to some ordinary protest messages or social media messages. We believe that the way in which Hungarian officials understand to relate to neighbouring Romania is completely unacceptable to us. The messages that the President of Hungary sends are deeply offensive to us and we consider that the first men in command, President Klaus Iohannis, Ciuca, and Ciolacu, must rise and react. Nowhere else in the world do such gestures happen: under the pretext of private visits all kinds of public meetings are hidden," said Tanasa. AGERPRES President Klaus Iohannis invited, on Wednesday, at 12:00, the three leaders of the governing coalition to consultations on the topic of the strike in Education, the Presidential Administration informed. On Tuesday, the head of state met with a delegation of trade union leaders from Education. President Klaus Iohannis expressed, at the meeting with them, his willingness to guarantee, as a mediator, the conclusion of a political agreement to resolve salary claims, the Presidential Administration informed.AGERPRES The Director General of the "Ion I.C. Bratianu" Institute of Political Science and International Relations of the Romanian Academy, Professor Dan Dungaciu, said on Wednesday, at a debate dedicated to Romanians in Hungary, that, 100 years after Trianon, Romanians in this country are "on the verge of extinction." "100 years after Trianon, Romanians in Hungary are on the verge of extinction. They are a museum species, if you like. The Romanians in Hungary, six, seven, how many of them still use the Romanian language in administration, are to be put in museums, so that we can pass by them and say 'this is what the Romanians in Hungary would look like,' while they are still alive, the six, seven speakers of Romanian. Then things close before our eyes, so to speak," said Dungaciu, moderator of the debate "100 years after Trianon, the Romanians in Hungary have disappeared. What are the effects for the Bucharest - Budapest relationship?," held on Wednesday at the House of Scientists. Dan Dungaciu argued that this fact "raises a disturbing problem, which is not only related to the bilateral relationship." "If Romania does not assume its Eastern Latinity, as Iorga used to say, who will assume it in this part of the world?! What happens with the Eastern Latinity, the Eastern Romanians in Serbia, Hungary, Bulgaria, I mean, the Aromanians in the Balkan area, the Romanians in Ukraine?! If Romania is no longer interested in this, obviously this dimension will be hidden," said the professor. One of the consequences of this lack of interest is, according to Dungaciu, the disappearance of Romanians from Hungary. "What will happen in a few years, if we do not have a Romanian minority in Hungary, in the bilateral discussion, the Hungarian minority being present in Romania, the Romanian minority not being present in Hungary. What is the effect of these historical developments and what are the strategic geopolitical consequences?," asked Dan Dungaciu. During the debate, Professor Gabriel Moisa from the University of Oradea, author of the book "Romanians in Trianon Hungary (1920-2020)," revealed that in Hungary bilingual education is reduced to "two to three hours of Romanian language per week at the eight schools" in the country. The teacher from Oradea pointed out that in the neighbouring country "a national network of local self-governments has been built, so that the 11 local self-governments lose their vote. Regarding the number of Romanians in Hungary, Gabriel Moisa said that while the 2001 census showed that "there were still 7,995 Romanians registered," the 2011 census shows that there are almost 36,000. "There has been a manipulation of what the census means," said Gabriel Moisa The event, organised by the "Ion I.C. Bratianu" Institute of Political Science and International Relations of the Romanian Academy and the University of Oradea, also saw the participation of Petrisor Peiu, director of the Department of Economic Analysis of the Black Sea University Foundation (FUMN), Professor Darie Cristea, pro-dean of the Faculty of Sociology, director of the Laboratory of Sociological Research - LARICS, and Cristian Barna, Professor at the University of Bucharest, Master of Security Studies. AGERPRES The minister of Health, Alexandru Rafila, announced on Wednesday the completion of a new form of the National Plan to Combat Cancer. "Today, it will be published on the website of the Ministry of Health. It is open to suggestions. We worked only with professionals, transparently. We want there to be a mobilization on the part of the political class as well, so that this plan becomes a reality. Regarding the rules, there are a lot of things that have already been done in these five months since the law entered into force," said Rafila, at the Fundeni Clinic Institute of Bucharest, where he participated in a conference on the occasion of the European Week to fight against cancer. The minister said that the new framework contract provides for measures regarding prevention, access to diagnosis and treatment, as well as "the lifting of barriers to PET-CT type investigations". "You will see in the framework contract measures starting from prevention carried out by the family doctor, preventive consultations, access to diagnosis, access to treatment. Raising the barriers to PET-CT type investigations is essential. We have done this. We are starting with the National Cancer Registry. (...) Patients in Romania have a problem and we must recognize it. They are often diagnosed too late and this must stop, because access to therapeutic resources, to personalized medicine it is most often conditioned by an early diagnosis of the disease. (...) You will all find that you have at your disposal a document that is made professionally, is balanced, is ethical and made in the most complete transparency," said Rafila. According to him, this new form of the National Plan to Combat Cancer has been completely restructured. The document can be consulted on the website of the Ministry of Health: https://ms.ro/ro/informatii-de-interes-public/noutati/planul-national-de-combatere-si-control-al-cancerului-pncc/.AGERPRES More than 1,900 homeless adults and over 300 children at risk of school drop-out and family abandonment were supported through a demarche financed from Norwegian funds, which was implemented by the Salvation Army Christian Mission in Romania Association, project manager Eugen Lucan said. He told a press conference on Wednesday, that through the project called "Anti-poverty Multifunctional Services for Reintegration and Transformation," a number of four social services have been made operational: two day centers for the prevention of school drop-out and family abandonment in Iasi and Ploiesti, a mobile medical and social team in Bucharest for the assistance of homeless adults, a counseling and information center in Bucharest for very poor families and homeless people. According to Eugen Lucan, more than 2,500 beneficiaries received counseling, over 1,900 homeless adults benefited from the Salvation Army's mobile team of information, counseling, punctual aid in the street, assessments and medical treatment. Eugen Lucan mentioned that more than 300 children with integration problems, risk of school drop-out and family abandonment were supported in day centers of Ploiesti and Iasi. He said that through the "Anti-poverty Multifunctional Services for Reintegration and Transformation" project, Romanian immigrants in Oslo were brought back to their country, thus increasing the degree of economic and social cohesion between the Romanian and Norwegian states. Lucan informed that an innovative activity called the Parents' School has been created. "We have transferred a best practice methodology from our Norwegian partner, it is called 'Path Way of Hope'. It is an innovative methodology, which puts special emphasis on activating resources from the beneficiary's perspective, on much greater social cohesion, on creating opportunities for family reintegration and we have also implemented this methodology at the level of the four social services we have created," Eugen Lucan explained. He added that the project has benefited from more than 1.2 million EUR provided by Norway through grants. AGERPRES The children supported through the social projects of the Margareta of Romania Royal Foundation will be welcomed at the Elisabeta Palace in Bucharest by Princess Sofia, as well as at the Savarsin royal estate, in western Arad County, on Thursday, June 1, the cultural experience offered to the little ones including creative workshops at the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum in Bucharest, nearby the Elisabeta Palace, and the National Museum of Romanian Literature. According to a press release from FRMR, sent to AGERPRES on Wednesday, to mark International Children's Day, the Royal Foundation has prepared a series of unique experiences this year for more than 200 children beneficiaries of social services at the Generatii Community Centre in Bucharest, the Florian Cristescu Community Development Association Generatii centres of Turnu Magurele, International Aid Diaconia Association of Brasov, Oaza Copiilor Center of Arad, Caritas Metropolitan Greek-Catholic Center of Blaj, as well as the Special Fund for Children and Aid for Refugees programme, held in Bucharest . The children invited to the Elisabeta Palace will have the opportunity to learn about the history of this place, in a guided tour through the spaces full of meanings and history, and also to admire the collection of contemporary art creations. Together with Princess Sofia, they will go through the Royal Childhood photo exhibition, located in the courtyard of the Elisabeta Palace, which marks moments in time from the life of the little princesses. At the invitation of the National Museum of Romanian Literature, some of the children will participate in workshops exploring the building and the works of Romanian authors, film screenings and moments of magic, dedicated to them in particular. And the others will take part in a tour of the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum and in creative modeling or DIY workshops. On the same day, 60 children from the Generatii centres in Arad and Blaj are expected to visit the Savarsin royal domain, to enjoy the attractions of the park and the Royal Village. Currently, the Royal Foundation carries out programmes aimed at preventing school dropout among disadvantaged children, through the national projects Generatii centres and the Special Fund for Children, as well as Aid for Refugees, a project that supports children and their families arriving from Ukraine. The General Inspectorate of Border Police (IGPR) informs that on Tuesday 75,908 people entered Romania through the border crossing points, including 8,039 Ukrainian citizens. According to a press release sent on Wednesday to AGERPRES, at border crossings throughout the country, approximately 168,630 people, Romanian and foreign citizens, with approximately 47,890 means of transport, have completed control formalities, both on the inbound and on the outbound. As of 10 February 2022 (pre-conflict period), 4,375,725 Ukrainian citizens entered Romania. As part of the specific activities at crossing points and the green border, the border police found 78 illegal acts (48 offences and 30 contraventions) committed by both Romanian and foreign citizens. The value of the seized undeclared goods amounts to over RON 809,500. Fines worth approximately RON 40,430 were issued. On Tuesday, 22 foreign citizens who did not meet the legal requirements were denied entry to the country, and 16 Romanian citizens were not allowed to leave the country for various legal reasons. Over 140 migrants were caught hiding in trucks checked at the border with Hungary before leaving Romania, 64 people being found in one vehicle, the Arad Border Police informed on Wednesday. At the Nadlac II Border Crossing Point (PTF), at different time intervals, 139 of the migrants were detected, hidden in five trucks driven by four Turks and one Romanian. The drivers transported metal profiles, textiles, plastic packaging and ceramic tile cutting machines for commercial companies in Germany, France and Austria. "Following the detailed control of the means of transportation, the border police discovered, hidden in the compartments intended for the transport of goods, among the transported goods, as many as 139 foreign citizens. In one of the means of transportation only were discovered hidden 64 persons. They were picked up and transported to the headquarters of the sector for investigations where, following checks, the border police established that they were citizens of Syria, Iraq, Egypt and Pakistan, who were trying to illegally cross the border into Hungary with the intention of reaching in Western European states," the Arad Border Police informed. In Bihor county, at PTF Bors, four migrants were caught hiding in a truck driven by a Bulgarian. The clandestine travelers are from Bangladesh and are between 24 and 38 years old. In all cases, the drivers are investigated for migrant trafficking.AGERPRES PM Ciuca presents teacher unionists measures to be approved by Gov't; coalition calls for responsibility. Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca held a new round of consultations with the leaders of the Education unions, on Wednesday evening, at the Victoria Palace, a meeting during which the measures on salary increases in the education system that the Government will approve on Thursday were unveiled, told Agerpres. According to a Government's press release, in the same context, the Prime Minister and the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Marcel Ciolacu, called for responsibility to all employees in the educational system to end the strike. "The Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Marcel Ciolacu, together with the Minister of Education, Ligia Deca, the Minister of Labor, Marius Budai, and the Secretary General of the Government, Marian Neacsu, presented to the leaders of the unions in Education the emergency ordinance that the Government will adopt in tomorrow's meeting, thus fulfilling the requirements submitted on the basis of the negotiation mandates presented publicly: the salary increase starting from June this year, by 1,000 lei gross monthly for teaching and auxiliary teaching staff in education, respectively 400 lei gross monthly for the non-teaching staff in the educational system. In the new salary scale, the salary of the fresh teacher/university assistant will be related to the national average gross salary and will represent the reference point of the salary scale in education. Salary increases according to the new scale will be done in stages, within a maximum of three years from the entry into force of the new salary law, the first installment representing 40 percent of the total value of the increases", the press release states. The text of the normative act has already been transparently published on the official websites of the Ministries of Education and Labor, the quoted source informs. In view of the above, the governing coalition makes a new call for responsibility to all teachers and all staff who contribute to the smooth functioning of the educational system, to end the strike and allow the resumption of access to education for the more than 3,000,000 students in Romania, of whom almost 300,000 are preparing for the National Assessment and Baccalaureate, the release also reads. The general strike in Education continues, the Government's proposal to increase salaries by 1,000 lei gross monthly for teaching staff and by 400 lei for non-teaching staff in education being rejected by trade unionists, the leaders of trade union federations in Education announced on Wednesday evening. Ukrainian prosecutors, together with prosecutors from the International Criminal Court (ICC), are establishing the entire command structure of Russians involved in the illegal abduction and deportation of Ukrainian children, Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin emphasizes. "Our most significant result is the arrest warrant for Putin and Lvova-Belova for the forcible deportation of Ukrainian children. But this is just the beginning. Together with the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court and his team in Ukraine and in The Hague, we are working to establish the entire chain of command from direct performers to the commanders of the Russian troops involved in the abduction of our children," the Prosecutor General said on Wednesday at the conference UA War. Unfinished Lullaby. Kostin stressed that there is a plan according to which Ukrainian prosecutors and ICC prosecutors are working. "We will do everything possible to ensure that there are more such arrest warrants, and not only in cases related to the forced illegal deportation of Ukrainian children," he stressed. The Prosecutor General clarified that Ukraine as a state is currently talking about more than 19,000 forcibly deported Ukrainian children. "We managed to return only 371 children," he added. "In order to find and return them all, we need to unite the efforts of the entire world community. We work daily on this with our partners as part of a joint investigation team ... It is the fact of the forced transfer of children from one group to another that is a crime of genocide," Kostin noted. He also noted that the Prosecutor General's Office is also establishing transatlantic cooperation. "Conventionally, this can be called a triangle of investigations - Ukraine, Europe, the United States," Kostin added. Speaking about the prospect of criminal liability of the President of the Russian Federation in the ICC for crimes committed against Ukraine, the Prosecutor General said: "Our task is to collect evidence and prepare a case that we must win - whether it will be in the ICC or these will be cases that are considered by our national courts, or those cases that can be considered in the courts of 24 other countries that have launched their own investigations into Russian war crimes committed in Ukraine and against Ukrainians." According to the Prosecutor General, more than 2,900 criminal offenses against Ukrainian children related to aggression of the Russian Federation are currently being investigated, 483 children died during the full-scale war, and 989 were injured. "Already one interrupted life of a child is enough to demand the maximum punishment for the one who gave the criminal orders to start this bloody barbaric war," Kostin said. PM Ciuca: State-aid schemes for large consumers. Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca said on Wednesday that the measures to be taken at the level of the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Economy to provide aid schemes for large consumers will be analysed in the Government meeting, told Agerpres. "We will analyse the measures that the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Economy will take. From the analyses we have received from the National Institute of Statistics it is clear that there is a need to support the industry. The industry, unfortunately, has had a downward trend in recent years. There have also been the effects or rather the consequences of what has been the energy crisis and this supply chain crisis. I believe that through these measures we can return to a hope that the Romanian industry will return to a growing trend," said the Prime Minister at the beginning of the Government meeting. The Executive will approve a memorandum mandating the Ministry of Economy, a national public authority with powers in industrial policies, to identify financing opportunities through a state aid scheme mechanism for the energy-intensive industry, in accordance with the provisions of the Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework. President Iohannis to attend Second European Political Community Summit. Romania's President Klaus Iohannis on Thursday will participate in the Second European Political Community Summit to be hosted by Moldova, according to the Presidential Administration, told Agerpres. Attending the meeting that will take place at Mimi Castle, Anenii Noi district, will be 47 heads of state or government, the president of the European Council, the president of the European Commission and the president of the European Parliament. The Presidential Administration says that by hosting the European Political Community Summit, Moldova reconfirms its European vocation and consistency in implementing the reform necessary for joining the European Union. The summit includes a plenary session, with the participation of all delegations, and working groups, which will take place simultaneously debating security, energy and connectivity. Iohannis will deliver a speech to the plenary session and will participate in a meeting of the working group on security. During the debates, Iohannis will address current issues generated by the impact of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine in the security, economic, food and humanitarian areas; sustained support for Moldova and Ukraine; coordination of joint efforts to combat hybrid threats, from cyber-attacks to disinformation and manipulation campaigns; increasing resilience and continuing support to vulnerable countries in the region. The European Political Community is an intergovernmental forum for debate and a platform for political coordination between European states in order to promote political dialogue and co-operation on topics of shared interest for the consolidation of security, stability and prosperity on the European continent. President Klaus Iohannis congratulates Latvia's newly elected President. President Klaus Iohannis congratulates Latvian newly elected President Edgars Rinkevics, on his election as President of Latvia, told Agerpres. "Congratulations, Edgars Rinkevics, on your election as President of Latvia! I wish you every success and I look forward to working together on further developing excellent Romania-Latvia ties and enhancing our coordination as partners within NATO, the European Union and regional fora!," Iohannis wrote on Twitter on Wednesday. Latvia's Parliament on Wednesday elected as President of the country Edgars Rinkevics, a former foreign minister of the Baltic country. Speaker Ciolacu: Certain parameters, indicators on education in Law 153 were miscalculated. The social crisis is a deduction accumulated over the years and, at the same time, the parameters and indicators regarding education haven't been taken into account very well when Law No.153/2017 regarding the salaries of personnel paid from public funds was made, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies and Social Democratic Party (PSD) Chairman Marcel Ciolacu stated on Wednesday, told Agerpres. "It's a deduction accumulated over several years and neglected by certain people, not me or Nicolae Ciuca, which came to us for payment. It is neither the first nor the last, as you well know. There are things that I also understand very well now from the union leaders, where this social crisis has accumulated. There were some bad decisions, at one point. It wasn't the lowest budget, nominally it was higher. (...) I think that the parameters and indicators for education haven't been taken into account very well when Law No.153 was made. That's where this dissatisfaction started," Ciolacu told Parliament. At the end of the negotiations at the Government, Marcel Ciolacu said that the increases will be included in the new salary law. "There will be a new salary law that will be applied in stages, so that Romania's budget is not doubled from next year. And then we agreed that, in a maximum of three years, this law will be implemented in terms of the education system and in the first year we will take into account this increase, which is in advance of this year. Nobody is talking about a 60pct increase in the first place. At the moment 1,000 RON gross have been given to each member of the teaching staff. (...) When the salary law comes into force, this amount is taken into account, not increased above this amount. From that first 40pct tranche, this amount of 1,000 RON and 400 RON for auxiliary staff shall be taken into account," the PSD leader explained. According to him, the first installments are paid from the current budget of the Ministry of Education, and this amount will be supplemented at the rectification. The Government will adopt on Thursday, through an emergency ordinance (OUG), an increase in salaries provided for in Law No.153/2017 by 1,000 RON gross per month for the teaching staff, representing an advance from the increase on the pay scale of the future salary law, which is to be enforced as of 1 January 2024, according to a press release from the Executive. For the non-teaching staff in education, the salary increase will be 400 RON gross per month. ST. LOUIS BJC HealthCare announced plans Wednesday afternoon to merge with the Kansas City-based St. Lukes Health System. The health systems will keep their own names, and operate from dual headquarters: One in St. Louis serving eastern Missouri and southern Illinois, and another in Kansas City serving western Missouri and parts of Kansas. If you are a BJC or St. Luke's employee and have questions, comments or tips about this news, contact Annika Merrilees by email at amerrilees@post-dispatch.com. BJCs chief executive, Richard Liekweg, will serve as CEO of the integrated health system. The initial board chair will come from St. Lukes. Liekweg said the combined health systems will have an even stronger financial foundation. Amid the rapidly changing health care landscape, this is the right time to build on our established relationship with St. Lukes, Liekweg said in a press release. St. Lukes CEO Melinda Estes said coming together as one, integrated system is a logical next step. If federal and state regulators approve the deal, it will follow the industry trend of consolidation among both hospitals and insurers. Ge Bai, a professor of accounting and health policy at Johns Hopkins University, called it an escalating consolidation game, where insurers and health providers alike grow larger to gain advantage in negotiations. The market and regulatory environment is less and less friendly to small players, Bai said. So how can hospitals survive? Become more powerful. Hospitals are struggling to rebuild revenue streams after COVID-19 forced patients to defer elective procedures and kept them out of hospitals. And recruitment for nurses and doctors has become more costly and competitive. Back-office streamlining in a larger system could free up cash for higher salaries. People in health care systems are looking for efficiencies and trying to figure out how to do the same amount of work with fewer people, said Ryan Barker, an independent health care policy consultant based in St. Louis. In this type of environment, everything you can leverage is being leveraged right now to squeeze every dime. BJC declined to comment beyond a press release, and a spokesperson would not elaborate on the terms of the deal, or the structure of the eventual combined system. Bai, the Johns Hopkins professor, said the deal looks more like a merger than an acquisition: Neither health system has to give up its name, or its headquarters. BJC is among the largest employers in the St. Louis region with over 30,000 employees. It reported $6.3 billion in revenue in 2022, and operates 14 hospitals. St. Lukes has over 12,000 employees and reported $2.4 billion in revenue in 2022. It operates 14 hospitals, the flagship location in downtown Kansas City. It is not affiliated with the smaller, Chesterfield-based St. Lukes hospital system. St. Lukes in Kansas City is a faith-based system. A spokesperson said it is associated with the Episcopal diocese. Both health systems are in the midst of major construction projects. St. Lukes broke ground on a $52 million expansion and renovation of its east hospital in Lees Summit in April. BJC is constructing a new building along Kingshighway Boulevard, at the former site of Queeny Tower. The two systems are likely dealing with many of the same insurers within Missouri, said John A. Romley, a professor at the University of Southern California who studies health policy and economics. These are market leaders in their respective metro areas not too far apart from one another. You can imagine theres a strategic partnership that could benefit both of them, Romley said. Regulators may look at the deal, but the fact that the merger is in another market may help it clear regulatory scrutiny more easily than if it was a merger of two large systems within one metro area, Romley said. The two health systems are working on a definitive agreement. The deal is expected to close by the end of the year. Editor's Note: St. Luke's revenue was added to the story. ST. LOUIS Turnover and vacancy rates in hospital staff positions statewide remain at near-record levels, a report released Wednesday shows, reflecting a slower-than-desired recovery for the industry and its workforce. The vacancy rate for staff nurse positions in Missouri was 17%, only a modest decline from the record 20% rate seen the year before, according to the Missouri Hospital Association workforce report. In the years leading up to the pandemic, the statewide vacancy rate was 10% and 11%. The state's larger metro areas had higher staff nurse vacancy rates than the rest of the state, with 18% in the St. Louis area, and 21% in the Kansas City area. MHA president and CEO Jon Doolittle said that while the numbers this year show a "small improvement" over those seen in the worst of the pandemic, "they shouldn't be viewed as an indicator that the hospital staffing crisis has passed." "Much work remains to ensure hospitals have the staffing necessary to deliver and support care in the long and short term," Doolittle said in a statement. The industry group report says retention must be a top priority. Hospitals should convey to front-line workers and leaders that their work is valued by emphasizing flexibility, work-life balance and inclusivity, among other things. The report calls for including workers in decision-making and for "frequent and consistent" compensation reviews and "stay" interviews. "This year's workforce report is a reminder," Doolittle said, "that we have work to do." WAR IN UKRAINE KYIV, Ukraine A rare drone attack jolted Moscow early Tuesday, causing only light damage but forcing evacuations as residential buildings were struck in the Russian capital for the first time in the war against Ukraine. The Kremlin, meanwhile, pursued its relentless bombardment of Kyiv with a third assault on the city in 24 hours. The Russian Defense Ministry said five drones were shot down in Moscow and the systems of three others were jammed, causing them to veer off course. President Vladimir Putin called it a "terrorist" act by Kyiv. The attack, while causing what Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said was only "insignificant damage" to several buildings, brought the war home to civilians in Russia's capital. Two people received treatment for unspecified injuries but did not need hospitalization, Sobyanin said, adding that residents of two high-rise buildings damaged in the attack were evacuated. Andrei Vorobyov, governor of the wider Moscow region, said some of the drones were "shot down on the approach to Moscow." Ukraine made no direct comment on the attack, which would be one of its deepest and most daring strikes into Russia since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than 15 months ago. It was the second reported strike on Moscow since May 3, when Russian authorities said two drones targeted the Kremlin in what they portrayed as an attempt on Putin's life. Ukraine denied it was behind that attack. "The Kyiv regime attempts to intimidate Russia, Russian citizens and strikes at civilian buildings," Putin said during a public event. "It is, of course, a clear indication of terrorist activity." White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Tuesday the U.S. was still gathering information about the drone strike but reiterated that "as a general matter" the U.S. administration does not support Ukraine using American weaponry in Russian territory. A U.S. military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be announced this week will total up to $300 million and will include additional munitions for drones, U.S. officials said Tuesday. There has been no suggestion that U.S.-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow, and U.S. officials say Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. But the new aid package comes at a tense moment in the war as Ukraine shows signs its long-awaited spring counteroffensive may already be underway. (Broadry) Booking.com and Disney have joined forces to offer travelers a chance to immerse themselves in the world of The Little Mermaid this summer. In celebration of the films release in theaters on May 26, the global campaign aims to make a splash and provide travel inspiration for adventurous getaways. Booking.com, in collaboration with spokesperson Melissa McCarthy, who portrays the iconic Ursula, is highlighting the wide range of travel experiences and properties available on the platform. The campaign will run in the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Australia, showcasing the amazing selection of oceanic hotels, vacation rentals, and more on Booking.com. Lucky travelers will also have the opportunity to book unique Under the Sea themed stays inspired by The Little Mermaid. These limited-edition overnight stays will take place at a specially transformed Booking.com beach house in Malibu. These lucky guests will enjoy a mermaid-inspired experience, with rooms featuring iconic characters such as Ariel, Ursula, King Triton, and Prince Eric. The stay includes a private dinner prepared by a personal chef and a screening of the film at a nearby theater. Three separate overnight stays will be available for booking on June 7 at noon EST, with flights and airport transfers included. The cost of each stay will be $5.26, commemorating the films release date. The campaign captures the spirit of exploration and adventure found in both travel and The Little Mermaid. By offering this exclusive experience, Booking.com aims to provide travelers with a magical and new summer getaway. Melissa McCarthy, an avid traveler and Booking.coms #1 Travel Fan, expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity to stay in a Malibu beach house inspired by the beloved film, if someone told me I could stay in a Malibu beach house inspired by The Little Mermaid, I would pack my bags and move in tomorrow. The campaign also highlights other properties on Booking.com that provide an under the sea ambiance, such as Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai, Beach Plum Resort in Montauk, and Chateau dEsparron in France. These properties offer a variety of beachfront vacation rentals, family-friendly seaside resorts, and unique accommodations like lighthouses and cave hotels. According to Booking.coms research, 73% of Americans plan to travel this summer, with beach vacations being a popular choice. Travelers are motivated by the desire to relax, unwind, and explore new destinations. This collaboration with Disney showcases the diverse range of travel experiences available on Booking.com, offering more than 6.6 million instantly bookable listings in vacation homes, apartments, and other unique accommodations. With options for vacation rentals, hotels, rental cars, and flights, Booking.com aims to cater to travelers needs wherever they choose to go this summer. SACRAMENTO Influential health care interests are jockeying over a potential infusion of $19.4 billion into Medi-Cal, Californias Medicaid program, while also angling for a 2024 ballot initiative to permanently lock in that funding, KFF Health News has learned. The Coalition to Protect Access to Care, which includes groups representing doctors, hospitals, insurance companies, and clinics, is lobbying Gov. Gavin Newsom and his fellow Democratic lawmakers on allocating proceeds from a tax on health insurance companies. The governor earlier this month proposed to spend nearly $820 million from renewing the Managed Care Organization, or MCO, tax to boost Medi-Cal reimbursement rates and divert $8.3 billion to the state general fund, leaving $10.3 billion up for grabs. Each sector has its own idea of how that money should be spent, even as the health care industry presents a unified front, according to interviews with hospital leaders, health insurance executives, doctor groups, and community clinics. The coalition also wants to cement higher Medi-Cal funding into the state constitution, potentially through a ballot initiative in November 2024. We are actively exploring a plan to provide permanent and predictable funding, and stability, in the health care system, said Dustin Corcoran, CEO of the California Medical Association, who confirmed talks with other industry groups and health care advocates about an initiative. Medi-Cal, a massive safety-net program, has long failed to deliver timely, comprehensive health care and adequately meet the needs of 15.8 million low-income and disabled Californians who depend on it. Hospitals, clinics, and other health care providers say reimbursement rates fall short of the cost of their services. Health care has eluded patients for a long time, Corcoran said. This is absolutely a generational opportunity to improve Medi-Cal and ensure that patients can access care whenever they need it. California is among more than a dozen states that levy taxes on managed care organizations, a type of health plan, to draw in extra federal health care money for Medicaid. California adopted the tax back in 2005 and it has been renewed five times, according to state Department of Finance spokesperson H.D. Palmer. The last version, which expired in December, generated $2 billion annually. However, the tax revenue has never been dedicated for new initiatives in Medi-Cal and Newsom wants to change that, such as by paying providers higher rates for primary care, mental health and addiction treatment, and maternity care. While health groups and lawmakers agree on propping up Medi-Cal and raising reimbursement rates, various sectors of the health industry are positioning themselves to benefit from the portion still up for grabs. Hospitals say they are especially deserving of a large share of the $10.3 billion in revenue but have not indicated how they want the money distributed. Its not that every other player isnt important, said Carmela Coyle, the president and CEO of the California Hospital Association, which is lobbying Newsom and lawmakers for a broad bailout even though not all hospitals need help. But we did take the lions share of the hit during covid. Corcoran, of the California Medical Association, which represents doctors, contends that all providers who serve Medi-Cal patients should benefit, not just one type. The tax has to deal with the entire ecosystem of health care, he said. You cant just focus on a particular part of it. Insurers say they are still mulling over support of the tax, arguing it should benefit all Medi-Cal patients. In California, health insurance companies agreed to be taxed by the government, which brings in extra federal dollars to plug holes in Medi-Cal. Health insurers dont get the money back directly. Instead, the money is spread across the entire health care system. We dont just run around supporting new taxes. Its not an easy decision, said Charles Bacchi, the president and CEO of the California Association of Health Plans, which represents public and private insurers in the state. For the health plans that have to add this tax to their premiums, it needs to be affordable for our customers. Newsom and lawmakers are hoping to agree on the tax by the June 15 budget deadline. However, negotiations on how to spend the money could continue well into summer and perhaps even next year. Newsom wants to levy the tax through 2026 and spend the money over an eight- to 10-year period. But health providers and consumer advocates want it spent over roughly three years. The Newsom administration argues that stretching the money over 10 years protects against potential federal health care rule changes that could result in less revenue for California. Weve spread those dollars out for a long period of time to provide sustainability and longer-term fiscal certainty to our providers, Michelle Baass, director of the state Department of Health Care Services, which administers Medi-Cal, told lawmakers last week. Health industry groups, community clinics, and patient advocates are pushing back, arguing there is always federal uncertainty. They say Medi-Cal, which has undergone major expansions, including to cover unauthorized immigrants, needs an infusion of money now. We should invest today because the need is so high, said Francisco Silva, president and CEO of the California Primary Care Association, which represents community clinics that overwhelmingly serve low-income patients. Anthony Wright, executive director of Health Access California, is prodding industry groups and the administration to come up with a deal addressing disparities by targeting all the money to improve patient care and promote more equitable access to doctors. Frankly, your experience in the Medi-Cal program is really different around the state county by county, plan by plan, Wright said, arguing investments must be made in those areas where there are real problems. Doctors and insurance industry leaders are arguing to use the $10.3 billion for even higher Medi-Cal rates, and health plans say specifically there should be bigger rate increases for specialty care and loan forgiveness for doctors in underserved areas. Community clinics, which offer one-stop care, want more payments that reimburse them each time a patient shows up for care rather than bundling them into one visit for one fee. And public hospitals are eyeing the revenue to offset their projected losses from caring for a disproportionate share of low-income people. The Newsom administration wants to raise Medi-Cal rates for hospital emergency room and outpatient visits, Baass told lawmakers. If health interests can strike an agreement, its an opportunity for them to secure and direct billions in spending as they see fit. But the coalition could also splinter. It needs to be done in a way thats fair to everybody, said Democratic state Sen. John Laird of Santa Cruz, who sits on the budget committee. The worry is that everybody wants a piece of it. KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about KFF. USE OUR CONTENT This story can be republished for free (details). Ukraine strongly condemns the DPRK's attempt to launch a carrier rocket to place a military satellite into orbit, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said. Pyongyang once again conducts acts that destabilize the situation in the region and violate international law. The announcements of further launches in the near future raise even more concerns. The use by DPRK of ballistic technology in missile launches as well as the continuation of the North Korea's missile and nuclear programs are a gross violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement on its official website on Wednesday. The Foreign Ministry also stressed that Ukraine calls for strengthening of efforts by the international community to put pressure on Pyongyang in order to ensure stability and security on the Korean Peninsula. Earlier, the Korean Yonhap news agency reported that the Joint Chiefs of Staff of Seoul (JCS) said that a carrier rocket launched by North Korea fell into the water about 200 km away west of the South Korean island of Eocheongdo. It is noted that North Korea confirmed the defeat of the object, saying that its new Chollima-1 rocket with the Malligyong-1 military reconnaissance satellite fell into the sea due to engine malfunctions, according to an official statement from the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). JCS stated that at 06:29 a.m., a launch was recorded from Tonchang-ri, in the north-west of the DPRK. It is reported that the projectile flew in the airspace far to the west of the island of Pennendo. As a result, citizens of the capital of South Korea, Seoul, were urged to prepare for evacuation, and Japan was notified of the threat of a missile attack and declared an air alert in Okinawa, but soon the countries canceled the measures taken, because the object quickly disappeared from radar and, according to current information, fell in the Yellow Sea, 200 km from the South Korean island Eocheongdo. ST. LOUIS New St. Louis Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore pledged on Tuesday to fill out a staff that has been ravaged by departures, act on a "balanced" approach to public safety and catch up on a backlog of thousands of cases. Missouri Supreme Court Justice Robin Ransom delivered Gore's oath of office in front of a packed courtroom of elected officials, judges, attorneys and law enforcement leaders just over a week after Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, appointed him to replace Kimberly M. Gardner. Gore inherits an office that has suffered from years of turmoil and organizational dysfunction. Gardner abruptly resigned earlier this month amid a legal effort seeking her ouster and a bill from the Legislature that would have stripped her of most of her power. In a two-month period, one-third of the attorneys in Gardner's office left. Gore said his first goal is to get the office stabilized. "Failure is not an option," he said Tuesday after being sworn in. Gore, 54, is the first Black man to serve as circuit attorney in the city. He spent years working at the high-powered and politically connected Dowd Bennett law firm, served on the Ferguson Commission following protests over the 2014 death of Michael Brown, and worked as a federal prosecutor in the 1990s. When asked to identify his philosophy on prosecutions, Gore did not take on the "progressive" label, as Gardner did, though he rebuffed the characterization that he was "tough on crime." He said he would "look at the facts and enforce the laws as written." Gore said he wanted to take a "balanced approach of prevention, intervention and enforcement." The city, he said, is suffering a "violent crime crisis" that can be fixed only through prosecution and partnerships with regional officials, clergy, educators and social services. "We are losing far too many young, promising lives to violence," he said in prepared remarks. "In order to reduce that violence, it's going to take all of us working together." As part of his initial focus on hiring, Gore said in the past week he has contacted former prosecutors who may want to return to the city, and he is working to select a leadership team. At 3 p.m., he announced he had hired Marvin Teer, who resigned in March from Gardner's office, as his chief trial assistant. Gore has also spoken to other leaders in the region, including St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell and U.S. Attorney Sayler Fleming, and asked them for help taking on cases. Bell said he planned to send the city several prosecutors, including some new hires who hadn't yet taken on caseloads in the county, plus a prosecutor who was going to set up two satellite warrant offices in the county. That program, which would have allowed officers to apply for charges in Chesterfield and Florissant, will be suspended. "We're looking at ways where it won't compromise our cases, but understanding that in a crisis and we are in a crisis we're going to do what we can," Bell said. Gore will also have to work on repairing a strained relationship with city police that developed during Gardner's tenure. One of the biggest controversies was her creation of a list of officers who would be excluded as witnesses in criminal cases because Gardner's office found their credibility was in question. Gore said he hadn't seen the list of officers, but he said he would "look at each case individually, apply the law and proceed from there." St. Louis police Chief Robert Tracy, who joined the department in January, said he had already spoken with Gore and was "looking forward" to working with him. Katie Kull 314-340-8087 @KatieKull1 on Twitter kkull@post-dispatch.com Tony Messenger Tony Messenger is the metro columnist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Follow Tony Messenger Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today ST. LOUIS The sun sparkled through the stained glass at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with a newness that belied the nearly century-old age of the windows. Red, blue, yellow and violet hues lit up the historic church, which was founded in 1895 by Bohemian immigrants. The stained glass was designed by famed artist Emil Frei Sr., in the 1920s, when the current church building was constructed. It was restored years later by Freis company, which had been handed down to children and grandchildren. Frei was a German immigrant who settled in St. Louis and designed some of the most famous stained glass windows and mosaics in the city long known as the Rome of the West. At St. Wenceslaus, the sun highlighted the brilliant colors of those windows on Saturday, just a few hours before Archbishop Mitchell T. Rozanski announced the planned closure of 35 parishes, five mergers of 15 parishes, and reassignment of 155 priests in the St. Louis region. I was there for a renewal of vows of friends celebrating their 25th anniversary. The Rev. Philip Sosa celebrated the wedding Mass in Spanish, which is not uncommon at the church in the Benton Park West neighborhood. St. Wenceslaus is one of two southside St. Louis Catholic churches St. Cecilia is the other one to host a Spanish language Mass each week. Having grown up Catholic, I know there is a rhythm and structure to a Mass that is comforting, even when I dont understand the words being spoken. Sitting in the church that now serves a new immigrant population took me back to the words of Archbishop Rozanski when the All Things New process began. We are still relying on a model of church that is based on an 18th century European model, Rozanski told me more than a year ago. In that model, immigrants to a particular area of a city and their families were continually replenishing the congregation. That model is over, the archbishop said. The German and Slavic immigrants who once filled multiple churches in this part of the city have given way to new generations that moved to the suburbs hence the need to consolidate and close parishes, and upend the spiritual lives of many of the regions Catholics. But its not like Saturdays moves were the first time it happened. The history of St. Wenceslaus, for instance, is one of constant change. The elementary school opened and closed, and then reopened and consolidated several schools under a new name. Since 2005, the last time there was significant consolidation of parishes, the church has been designated a personal parish, one that can draw from outside its geographic boundaries. St. Wenceslaus, which is staffed by priests from the Missionaries of the Holy Family, escaped any changes in Saturdays announcement. But another historic church not far away, Sts. Peter and Paul in Soulard established in 1849 couldnt survive the latest consolidation. The churchs chapel will remain, but not as a stand-alone parish with weekly Masses. The basement of that building tells a story about the churchs mission, and the story shouldnt get lost in the talk about boundaries and buildings. The oldest overnight shelter for homeless people in St. Louis was founded at Sts. Peter and Paul more than 40 years ago and has been operating ever since. Most nights, the shelter is full to its capacity of 60 men. They sleep on bunk beds tucked so close together that the shelter has been looking for a new home to fill the growing need. Finding such a home has been a struggle. At a community meeting in March, the nonprofit that runs the Soulard shelter, Peter & Paul Community Services, met with fierce neighborhood opposition to a plan to locate the new shelter in the old Sts. Mary and Joseph Church. That church was founded in 1821, becoming the third Catholic church in the area, after the Old Cathedral and St. Ferdinand in Florissant. It didnt survive a round of closures in 2005. But the building still stands, and it is large enough to hold a robust homeless shelter. But there is no room at the inn, some neighbors said earlier this year. They vowed to fight a rezoning that would allow the shelter. Its a tricky thing, said Deb Cottin, Peter & Pauls chief development officer, after neighborhood opposition doomed the planned move. Most people want to help, but they dont want to see the people getting the help. Unable to put an old church building back into community service, Cottin says her organization is still looking for a suitable property, with the help of kind-hearted and understanding folks in south St. Louis. The quest reminds me of one of the goals Rozanski set for All Things New. Church leaders, he told me, need to get away from being caretakers of buildings and focus on being ministers to people. Twice in the first 25 years of this century, the Archdiocese of St. Louis has closed a significant number of parishes in parts of the region where the need is highest. This year, many of the parish closures and mergers are in north St. Louis and north St. Louis County. Only one is west of Interstate 270 in St. Louis County. The dwindling congregation numbers might justify such a move. But it also raises a question that a new generation of Catholic faithful will have to answer. As boundaries are redrawn, priests move and parishes close, who will serve the new immigrant populations and the folks seeking shelter in the shrinking Rome of the West? KANSAS CITY, Mo. A missing emergency room doctor from Missouri was found dead in Arkansas from an apparent gunshot wound, authorities confirmed Wednesday, but theyre still investigating what happened in the week since he was last seen. A kayaker discovered the body of 49-year-old Dr. John Forsyth on Tuesday in Beaver Lake, a large reservoir in northwestern Arkansas, the Benton County Sheriffs Office said. No further information would immediately be released, authorities said, and they didnt specify if he was shot by someone else or if the wound was self-inflicted. The doctors unlocked vehicle with his wallet, two phones, a laptop and other items had been found Sunday near a city-run public pool in Cassville, the town in the Missouri Ozarks where he worked, said his brother Richard Forsyth. The body was found at a location about 20 miles away, Arkansas authorities say. Cassville is about 275 miles southwest of St. Louis. Surveillance video from the pool shows John Forsyths black Infiniti pulling into the parking lot, and a white SUV can be seen parking near him a few minutes later, his brother said in an interview Wednesday. Were devastated, especially at the nature of his passing, Richard Forsyth said, adding that authorities havent given them more details about the investigation. The last time the two brothers met in person was at dinner on Wednesday, May 17. I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future, Richard Forsyth said in an earlier interview. John Forsyth had recently become engaged to be married, his brother said, and his fiancee was the last known person to communicate with him, texting at around 7 a.m. on Sunday, May 21. The doctor was reported missing that same day when he didnt arrive for work at Mercy Hospital, police have said. Richard Forsyth said the family was mystified by his brothers death and rejected the theory that he might have taken his own life. I dont believe it, he said. John would never do that. I wont accept that possibility. John Forsyth was the father of eight children, his brother said, and was so dedicated to his work that he never missed a day, stayed in an RV near the hospital when he was on call, and was never late for his difficult shifts in the emergency room. Messages seeking comment from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Cassville police on Wednesday were not immediately returned. When the doctors vehicle was found, several law enforcement agencies searched about a 9-mile radius around the aquatic park using people, dogs and drones. Forsyths family set up a Facebook page seeking information. Gina Forsyth-Farlaino said her brother was smart, confident, loved to help people and was devoted to his family. In the days since his disappearance, she said the family has heard at least three stories of people who he persuaded not to take their own lives. But Forsyth never mentioned those cases to his family, she recalled in an interview Wednesday from Price, Utah. Updated at 5:15 p.m. Wednesday WASHINGTON A Chesterfield teen who police say planned to storm the White House and take over the country last week wrote of harming family members and threatened to kill anyone who opposed his plan to rebuild this world, according to new court documents. Sai Varshith Kandula, 19, was scheduled to appear in federal court Tuesday afternoon for a bond hearing after authorities said he smashed a U-Haul truck into a barrier near the White House on May 23 in an effort to seize power and be put in charge of the nation. The truck stopped about 800 feet from the White House. Kandulas public defense attorney, Diane Shrewsbury, asked the judge to postpone Tuesdays hearing, as she needed more time to prepare and develop a proposed plan to release Kandula from custody. Online court records were not updated Tuesday night to show if her request was granted. Prosecutors outlined the evidence in a new court filing late Friday where they said Kandulas threats to his family and others were found in a green book that contained Kandulas handwritten thoughts. The book also contained a speech the Marquette High School graduate apparently intended to give after seizing power. It said after Kandulas movement had taken over, the country would no longer be a democracy, and any opposition will be met with (the) death penalty. He told officers after his arrest that he admires Hitler and the Nazis authoritarian nature, eugenics, and their one-world order, according to court documents. The speech said he planned to put a new world order in place and signed off with sieg hail, a misspelling of a notorious Nazi salute to victory. Prosecutors argued Kandula should be held without bond while his case moves through federal court. They argued the teen, who is living in the country on a green card, poses a flight risk because he has visited family in India several times and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. The filing also contained surveillance photos both during and after the incident, including of Kanula lying next to a swastika flag that police said he pulled from his backpack after the crash. Kandula was arrested on suspicion of multiple charges, including threatening to kill, kidnap or inflict harm on President Joe Biden. But federal prosecutors wound up filing only one charge: destruction of U.S. property in excess of $1,000. ST. LOUIS One man was killed and another was critically injured in a shooting late Tuesday night outside St. Louis Kitchen, a Chinese restaurant in the Academy neighborhood. The men were found just before 9:45 p.m. Tuesday on the west side of the restaurant, in the 800 block of North Kingshighway. A man in his 30s died at the scene. His name was not released. A 56-year-old man was taken to a hospital in critical condition. Police had no suspects. At least 130 people killed in 2023 across St. Louis region Learn about homicide victims and regional trends with this database from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. ST. LOUIS Authorities on Saturday charged a 31-year-old man with murder in connection to the shooting deaths of two people last June in the city's Hamilton Heights neighborhood. Edd Johnson is charged with two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of armed criminal action. He was listed as an inmate in the city's jail Tuesday afternoon. Police said they were called just before 4 a.m. on June 21 to the 1300 block of Temple Place where they found a vehicle with two people inside crashed into a fire hydrant. Officers found Angela Kabugu, 27, and Nelson Hall Jr., 28, in the car. Both had been shot dead, according to a court document. Police determined they had been shot with bullets from the same gun. A witness told police she asked Kabugu to pick her up from Johnson's house. The witness was dating Johnson and said she told him she had called a ride through a rideshare service, police wrote in court documents. But Johnson followed her outside and saw that she had lied to him, investigators wrote. The two began to argue and when Kabugu and Hall tried to intervene, police said Johnson shot both of them several times. Johnson ran away after shooting the two people, who were not armed, according to police. Johnson was incarcerated in Indiana on drug charges after the shooting, police said, and, more recently, in the St. Louis County jail. JEFFERSON CITY The state has made its first payment in a court case that saw a federal jury award $5 million to each of four women who were sexually abused by a prison guard at a western Missouri lockup. A monthly report issued by Attorney General Andrew Baileys office shows the state paid out $10.6 million of the $20 million award in April in connection with assaults by former corrections officer Edward Bearden at the Chillicothe Correctional Center. Attorney John Ammann, who represented the women, said Wednesday a second payment of $10 million is expected to be made in July when the states new fiscal year begins. The jury decided last year that Bearden had preyed on female inmates during his tenure at the Missouri Department of Corrections from 2008 to 2018. Attorneys for the women said Bearden would groom and compliment the prisoners and offer them items they were not allowed to have. He would go on to rape them in rooms where there were no cameras. According to the original complaint, Bearden in October 2015 ordered one of the women to enter a room where cleaning supplies are stored. He walked in behind her, placed his hand on his crotch and said, Yeah, you like that. Two months later, Bearden allegedly ordered the woman to go into a break room where he put his fingers in her pants. He also later tried to force the woman to perform oral sex. Plaintiff refused each time. Defendant Bearden pushed her to the ground and grabbed her hair. She screamed both times and he let her go, the original complaint said. Plaintiff did not report these attacks to any prison officials because she did not think she would be believed, and because she knew it was prison policy that women who complain of sexual assaults by guards to be sent to the hole, which is solitary confinement, the lawsuit notes. Bearden, who was earning $33,000 annually before he left the job in 2018, has not been criminally charged. A federal district court rejected his appeal of the award in March, calling his conduct as a guard reprehensible. The payout is the second major monetary award in recent months given to current or former inmates who allege they were abused by employees within the Missouri Department of Corrections. In March, taxpayers paid out nearly $200,000 to a convicted killer as part of a lawsuit he won last year after prison guards treated him wantonly and sadistically. The department also has been hit with a number of employee discrimination cases that have cost taxpayers millions of dollars. Last year, a Jackson County jury found in favor of Leesa Wiseman, who alleged in a 2018 lawsuit that she was subjected to a hostile work environment at the agency. The jury awarded $11 million to Wiseman, who had served in a number of different administrative roles dating to 1989. Some of the money was for back pay and economic losses, but $9.2 million was for punitive damages. Wiseman also provided favorable testimony in a number of cases that resulted in verdicts against the department. Top brass at the department have attempted to change the culture of the workplace by requiring all supervisors and staff to undergo training aimed at stopping discriminatory behavior. Since 2017, Gov. Mike Parsons administration has replaced at least 99 of the 107 top leadership positions in the department. City agencys about-face on sale of north St. Louis properties leaves activist group confused, angry African Peoples Education and Defense Fund says the city tried to back out of the deal, citing federal charges against leader of an affiliated group. ST. LOUIS The citys vacant property land bank on Wednesday backed off a proposal to reconsider three real estate options granted to a group with ties to the African Peoples Socialist Party, whose chairman was indicted last month on charges of working with Russian agents to spread propaganda. In April, the St. Louis Land Reutilization Authority board approved two-year options for the African Peoples Education and Defense Fund to purchase two vacant buildings and a vacant lot on West Florissant Avenue. The board was poised to reconsider the approval, but as its meeting began Wednesday morning, the board removed the agenda item that could have rescinded the options. With about a dozen supporters in the room behind her, APEDF Ona Zene Yeshitela thanked LRA Director Lance Knuckles and the board for dropping the agenda item and allowing it to keep the options for the properties. If acquired, the group says it will rehab the spaces to house community health programs. It has already purchased and improved several properties from LRA and others along the West Florissant Avenue corridor near its headquarters building, which it shares with the African Peoples Education and Defense Fund. Yeshitela said the group has spent over $1 million on community development in an area of town that sees little, and its efforts have spurred other property owners to invest in their buildings. We are out in the community really trying to help people see the north side should be looking like the south side, Yeshitela told the board. But she called for the LRA to better explain and define the community outreach policies it requires prospective buyers to follow. Its not easy, Yeshitela said. This issue is bigger than APEDF. Knuckles has said he plans additional community meetings to explain new LRA guidelines released in January. The revamp of LRA policies followed a six-month pause in land bank sales after Knuckles was hired to lead the agency. Yeshitelas husband, Omali Yeshitela, chairs the African Peoples Socialist Party and was indicted in April on federal conspiracy charges alleging he participated in a Russian agitation and propaganda campaign to sow dissent in the United States and promote the Russian narrative about its invasion of Ukraine. APEDF officials say their community development activities are completely distinct and neither it nor any of its board members are under investigation. Ona Zene Yeshitela said after the April meeting, Knuckles told her the LRA would reconsider the sales after receiving a complaint that the APEDF was tied to the African Peoples Socialist Party. Knuckles said he had an obligation to raise the question. A subsequent staff letter alleging the APEDF didnt follow the land banks community outreach guidelines was in error, he said Tuesday. Overall, Knuckles said the APEDF has proven it has the capacity to acquire and maintain LRA properties and has done good work in the neighborhoods where it is active. After a press conference Tuesday denouncing Knuckles over the initial plans to rescind the options, APEDFs lawyer, Life Malcolm, sang his praises by Wednesday morning. I really appreciate the leadership of Mr. Knuckles, Malcolm told the board. Its been an unusually dry May around St. Louis closing in on being the citys driest in nearly 20 years and putting the area on the brink of drought, experts say. It is getting pretty close to the drought threshold, said Brad Rippey, a drought analyst for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, who authored the most recent national map and report of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The short-term weather forecast might not offer much relief from dryness. Hot conditions are expected to grip St. Louis through the rest of the week, with daily highs at or above 90 degrees, and temperatures that remain upwards of 10 degrees warmer than normal for early June, the NWS said. Late May is usually the wettest time of year in the St. Louis area, according to the local forecast office of the National Weather Service. But as of Monday, the regions 13-day stretch without measurable precipitation marked its longest May dry spell since 1988. Meanwhile, in terms of total precipitation, the area is on the verge of closing out its driest May since 2005, according to national experts like Rippey who monitor and map drought trends. Thus far, the month has brought only 1.6 inches of measurable rainfall to St. Louis. Thats more than 3 inches below what the NWS considers normal for May, and the areas lowest monthly total since the 0.78 inches received in 2005, Rippey said. Around St. Louis, that dryness hasnt reached official drought levels yet. Much of the area is still experiencing abnormally dry conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. That designation immediately precedes varying levels of drought from moderate to severe, extreme and exceptional. The worst drought in the nation is currently centered over the Plains, where much of Kansas and parts of Nebraska are mired in exceptional drought. And some parts of central Missouri are also seeing elevated stages. The springs dry conditions represent a double-edged sword for farmers, said Rippey. For instance, the lack of moisture has helped outfit growers with a stable window to access their fields and enabled a rapid pace of planting. But were just a week or two away from trouble, Rippey warned, with his recent drought report describing regional crops looming needs for moisture, to ensure proper emergence and growth. A statewide crop progress report issued Tuesday by the USDA said that 17% of Missouri topsoil moisture reports are already rated as very short with another 45% rated as short. Even if drought were to remain anchored over the Plains, but not Missouri itself, the St. Louis region still could see some impacts, through examples such as low Mississippi River levels, which are strongly influenced by the discharge from the Missouri River. Although the coming days will bring chances for rain, sadly, the isolated nature of the rain wont be sufficient to alleviate the ongoing and slowly-degrading drought conditions, the NWS said in its online forecast analysis. Longer-term relief could be brewing, however. The NWS Climate Prediction Center said in its recent outlook for June through August that St. Louis and much of the Eastern U.S. were leaning toward a three-month period of above-average rainfall. The inaugural Saudi Food Show, the kingdoms largest food event, is set to welcome visitors, exhibitors, strategic partners and C-level speakers from across the globe, accelerating Saudi Arabias role as a global food and hospitality hub. Taking place in Riyadh from June 20 to 22 June the show is expected to see participation from thousands of food and hospitality professionals from around the world. In a reflection of its preeminent position, the show will be attended by Bandar Ibrahim Alkhorayef, Saudi Arabias Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources. Alkhorayef will deliver the opening keynote address and furthermore is also President of the Board of The Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (Modon), the official Strategic Partner and Sponsor of The Saudi Food Show 2023. Rise with the new food economy Under the theme Rise with the new food economy, The Saudi Food Show will be held in collaboration with significant authorities including the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Investment, The Saudi Ports Authority, The Agricultural Investment Fund, Public Investment Fund (PIF), Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority, Saudi Made, Saudi Food and Drug Authority, Saudi Exim, The General Food Security Authority (GFSA), Saudi Industrial Development Fund (SIDF) and more. The inaugural 2023 event will see the participation of ministers, high-ranking government officials, senior officials and high-level delegates invited by the supporting organisations including ministerial sessions, workshops and live panel discussions with top policy makers and business leaders invited by the Ministries. Modon recently announced that the Authority had signed several contracts and agreements worth SR1.07 billion ($285 million) to localise the food and beverage industry in the kingdom, furthermore revealing the increase of food factories to 1,171, with total areas of approximately 10 million sq m. Huge opportunities Ali Alomeir, VP of Business Development at Modon, commented: The Saudi F&B sector offers tremendous opportunities to local and international investors. Its among the fastest-growing sectors in the kingdom and directly intersects with key National strategies that aim at localization and National security. The Saudi Food Show is a crucial link between manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and service providers and enabled by public entities. Participants can showcase their products, share thoughts, and discover potential business ventures. Modon, by being a strategic partner, ensures that the industry adheres to the highest standards of quality, sustainability, and innovation while also aiming to create a food system that is more resilient and inclusive for all along the supply chain of its 36 integrated industries cities in the kingdom, which will foster opportunities to attract global investments and incentivise growth in the food and beverage sector in alignment with the objectives of the National Industry Strategy. Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, said: The Saudi government has taken a visionary approach to growing the nations economy, as well as diversifying its industrial base through huge levels of investment. The F&B and hospitality sectors are central to realising this vision, and we are excited to be the governments partner of choice to provide the world-class platform that the regions biggest market deserves. Unlocking opportunities This event will unlock tremendous business opportunities for those global food and beverage brands across the value chain. Already the largest F&B show in the kingdom, the fact that The Saudi Food Show exhibition sold out months ago has demonstrated to us the huge potential in the country and the room for further growth in the coming years as Saudi Food Show becomes a firm fixture in the global F&B industry calendar. The Saudi Food Summit, alone among Saudi food events, will bring together experts from the kingdom and around the world to provide direct, original and valuable insights into the current and future trends shaping the F&B industry in Saudi Arabia and across the GCC. High-level speakers slated to attend include Raffaella Campagnoli, Chief Strategy Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Carrefour; David Rosenberg, Co-founder & CEO of AeroFarms, and Jerome Laredo, Co-founder & President at Deliverect, with sessions covering F&B investment and opportunities; supply chain agility and sustainability; innovation across foodservice; consumer trends and demands; agri-food tech impact and more. Thousands of international brands from 35+ countries will be represented in the sold-out exhibition, which extends across 14,000 sq m of exhibition space at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre. With an additional 3,000 sq m space added via a bespoke structure to accommodate demand. New products For key players such as Pepsico, Americana, Al Jameel, Lactalis, GulfWest, Seara Foods, IFFCO, and hundreds more, as well as country pavilions including USA, UK, India, Singapore, Italy, Jordan and Australia, the show will be an unrivalled platform to unveil new products, services and technologies. It will also be a chance for buyers to connect with international brands exhibiting, many of which will be looking to enter the Saudi market, thanks to TawaSul, a dedicated meetings programme unique to the show. Meetings organised through TawaSul will be pre-scheduled, one-on-one interactions between top tier exhibitors and senior decision-makers on the buying side, driving forward tangible business opportunities. Ian Halliday, General Manager Middle East, Africa, and Pakistan at the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, commented: Saudi Arabia is an important trading partner for Australia. The kingdom is going through a rapid and substantial transformation, through the Saudi Vision 2030. This creates great opportunities for Australian food and agriculture products from packaged goods to wheat, barley, meat, and dairy products. The Saudi Food Show provides Australian food companies the chance to engage with key decision makers in-market and raise the profile of premium Australian goods and services. There is no better time for Australian exporters to enter Saudi Arabia. Rizwan Ahmed, IFFCO Executive Director, said: We are delighted to be associated with such a prestigious and ground-breaking event. Our participation offers a unique opportunity to showcase our products and services to potential customers, partners and investors. Additionally, the show provides an excellent platform for networking and connecting with industry peers. Strategic importance As an attractive growing market, the food and beverage industry in Saudi Arabia is of strategic importance to IFFCO. Our participation in the show will enable us to build on our existing strengths and actively pursue our growth strategy in the kingdom's ever-expanding food economy, focusing on our sustainability and food security values. The Saudi Food Show has also attracted a line-up of award-winning international and local celebrity chefs. A line up of culinary stars will be exploring the cutting edge of cuisine at Top Table Saudi, delivering over 40 masterclasses, to raise visitor awareness of the broad range of both the international cuisines that have made their way onto menus in the Kingdom, as well as traditional local dishes. With a strong showing from global Michelin-starred culinary maestros, celebrity chefs from the Arab world including Lebanese chef and entrepreneur Maroun Chedid, female chefs taking gastronomy to new heights in the region and young chefs, these masterclasses will revolve around the themes of Global Gastronomy and Flavours of Arabia. Celebrity chefs Top Table Saudi will present visitors with a never-seen-before line up of Michelin-starred celebrity chefs, marking their debut in the Kingdom and showcasing their signature techniques for the first time in the new culinary capital of the Middle East. Albert Adria, current head chef of Michelin one-star restaurant Tickets, in Barcelona and former head pastry chef of famed elBulli is set to create various culinary delights as well as Michelin-starred chef and famed restaurateur Vikas Khanna and 2 Michelin-starred chef Paco Morales - one of Spain's most progressive young avant-garde culinary masters. Top Table Saudi will also host Arab celebrity chefs bringing Arab and Levantine cuisine to a wider audience, as well as for a deeper exploration of both traditional and modern Saudi cuisine in all its uniqueness and diversity. YouthX In another first, YouthX will bring young talent from the kingdoms top hotel chains to compete against each other for a chance to go forward to directly win a place in the finals set to take place at Gulfood 2024. Rounding out Top Table Saudi will be an Innovation Lab for beverage masterclasses, and Pizza World a series of interactive masterclasses, workshops, food tastings, and competitions that will take a deep dive into one of the most beloved foods not only in Saudi Arabia, but around the world. The inaugural Saudi Food Show is affiliated to Gulfood, the worlds largest, go-to event brand trusted by the global F&B industry. Over almost three decades, Gulfood has cultivated the credibility, loyalty, recognition, and support of the global food and beverage sector, through an unwavering commitment to delivering real global business outcomes and valuable trade deals for participants. The Saudi Food Show draws upon this legacy and powerful international foundation.-- TradeArabia News Service President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen has said that a just peace must result in the withdrawal of Russian forces and equipment from the territory of Ukraine. "There is much discussion of peace plans and ceasefires. Above all, there must be the principle: nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine. Together with Ukraine, we want a just peace, one that does not reward the aggressor, but one that upholds the principles of the UN Charter and the Ukrainian people's right to be masters of their own future. President [of Ukraine Volodymyr] Zelenskyy is very clear on that. A ceasefire resulting in a frozen conflict will not bring lasting peace," she said in her speech at the Globsec 2023 Bratislava Forum on Wednesday. The European Commission President also noted that "a ceasefire was in place after 2014 and we know what happened to that agreement last February when Russia invaded." "No, a just peace must result in the withdrawal of Russian forces and their equipment from the territory of Ukraine. President Zelenskyy has come forward with a Peace Formula that we wholeheartedly support. Every one of his ten points is based on the UN Charter or UN resolutions. And he has invited countries around the world to join in and build on the Peace Formula. So that our starting point for peace is the rules-based order," she said. A just peace for Ukraine must also be a lasting one, von der Leyen stressed, adding that it should be a lasting peace for Ukraine. "I welcome ongoing discussions on how Ukraine's security can be guaranteed. There are different models and historical examples that can be used. A collection of such guarantees by like-minded states can offer what some have called 'deterrence by denial'. In other words, providing Ukraine with the military equipment to fortify itself against Russian attacks in the future," she said. Also, von der Leyen stressed the importance of clarity that Ukraine's friends will be there for the long haul for Ukraine's security. "Such an arrangement with security guarantees will need to be accompanied by a broader framework of Ukraine's democratic reforms. And here, Ukraine's path towards joining our Union will play a fundamental role. Although everyone knew that we were embarking on a challenging journey, we have given Ukraine candidate status rightly so. Now we must be by their side every step of the way," she said. The body of a Missouri emergency room doctor who has been missing for more than a week has been found in northwest Arkansas, his brother told The Associated Press on Tuesday. Dr. John Forsyth was last heard from in text messages around 7 a.m. May 21. His brother, Richard Forsyth, said authorities called the family Tuesday night to say his brother was found deceased. He said he and other family members were waiting for more details from detectives. Messages left with the Missouri State Highway Patrol were not immediately returned. Police said John Forsyth, 49, was reported missing when he failed to show up for work May 21 at Mercy Hospital in Cassville, a town of 3,100 residents deep in the Missouri Ozarks. His black Infiniti was found parked in a remote area near an aquatic park in Cassville. The car was unlocked with his wallet, two phones and a laptop and other items inside. It doesn't seem like a person who left with a plan, Richard Forsyth told the AP earlier Tuesday. Right now, we really don't have any breaks in the case. Im confused, and Im worried. And I dont like this one bit." Several law enforcement agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, searched about a 9-mile radius around the park using people, dogs and drones. Forsyth's family set up a Facebook page seeking information. My brother has now been missing for week. Im grieving, Im afraid, and it feels like the world has tipped into sheer chaos, his sister, Tiffany Andelin, wrote Monday. Richard Forsyth said the last person his brother texted with was a woman to whom his brother had recently gotten engaged. The last time Richard saw him was a few days before he went missing. We had dinner Wednesday before he disappeared, and we sat and talked for three hours, Richard Forsyth said. I told him this is the happiest Id seen him in a long time. His divorce was final May 11, and I think that gave him energy for the future. Phone and email messages left Tuesday with Cassville police were not immediately returned. Police have said there were no signs of foul play. Richard Forsyth said his brother had been at the Cassville hospital for about 15 years. He described John Forsyth as a doting father, family physician and part-time math nerd. He really cared about his patients, Richard Forsyth said, adding that his brother stayed in his RV near the hospital when he was on-call. And he loved his kids. A judge now confirms what common sense has long indicated: Eric Schmitt had no legal authority to persecute school districts over pandemic safety policies when he was Missouris attorney general. Schmitt, now a U.S. senator, won that seat with a cynical campaign that attacked school mask mandates to rally anti-science conservatives. The judges searing conclusion that Schmitt was acting contrary to Missouri law should provide a helpful shield against such abuses in the future. Schmitt didnt invent the strange scourge of anti-science activism that seized the political right during the pandemic, but he exploited it in ways that were breathtaking for their irresponsibility. Using his state powers and tax-funded resources, Schmitt filed lawsuits against dozens of school districts for merely following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which recommended masking in schools during the pandemic. Against the CDCs expertise, Schmitts lawsuits offered right-wing pseudoscience and the strained arguments that mask mandates in schools were a denial of students rights. In addition to the lawsuits, Schmitt sent school districts threatening cease-and-desist letters based on a misrepresentation of an unrelated court ruling. He also publicly encouraged parents to report their school officials to the state for enforcing mask mandates, which sounded like something right out of a George Orwell novel. Schmitt, who won his Senate seat last year, eventually dropped his litigation as school districts ended their mask mandates with the end of the pandemic. But the Lees Summit R-7 School District, which was out more than $72,000 in legal fees, had other ideas. The district countersued to establish that Schmitt had overstepped his authority. On Friday, Jackson County Judge Marco Roldan ruled exactly that. The attorney general lacked any legal authority to insert himself into the school districts efforts to manage the COVID-19 pandemic, Roldan wrote. He found that local school boards should have been able to exercise their authority free from unlawful interference by the attorney general, and that Schmitts adjacent social-media publicity campaign confused parents and students into wrongly believing their schools were breaking the law. There exists no Missouri law allowing the attorney general to involve himself in a school districts efforts to manage COVID-19 or other disease within its schools, Roldan wrote. He had no authority even to issue an opinion on those matters to the school district. In neither of his orders nor in his social media communications did he identify a valid legal basis for asserting that the school district was acting contrary to Missouri law. Schmitt has never acknowledged, let alone apologized for, abusing his official authority and putting Missouri families at risk for what amounted to a campaign stunt. Theres no reason to believe the judges opinion will change that. But its now a matter of court record that Schmitt was way out of line. Thats a useful precedent to point to the next time some ambitious pol decides to politicize a public health crisis. Valley Insurance Agency Alliance (VIAA), a cohesive family of more than 160 independent insurance agencies in Missouri and Illinois, recently promoted Amy Russell to Lead Pod Marketer and hired Michael Welch as Commercial Marketer. Russell, who previously served as marketing specialist and account manager, brings more than 30 years of experience in the insurance and marketing industries to her new position. She pioneered VIAAs Pod marketing program, a carrier rating platform that assists agents with obtaining the best quotes for commercial clients. Russells responsibilities include marketing new and renewal business for agents, as well as training the growing insurance alliances marketing team members. Russell earned her Masters degree in Business Management from Lindenwood University and her Bachelors degree in Health Management from Brown Mackie College. She has her Missouri licenses for Property & Casualty, Life, and Accident & Health. Russell has two designations including Agribusiness and Farm Insurance Specialist (AFIS) and Professional Workers Compensation Account Manager (PWCAM). Welch has more than 35 years of insurance experience. As Commercial Marketer, he will oversee the quoting and requesting issue of policies for several alliance members. Welch will focus on new and existing business development, as well as renewal business marketing. Prior to joining VIAA as a Commercial Marketer, he worked in commercial marketing at various insurance agencies in the Northeast. Welch earned his Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Math and Economics from Lake Forest College in Lake Forest, Ill. His designations include Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), Certified Professional Insurance Male (CPIM), and PWCAM certifications. Founded in 2006, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance generates more than $600 million in written premium and is the regional founding member for the Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA), a $11 billion national alliance. Founded in 1991, sister company Powers Insurance & Risk Management provides personal and business insurance, surety, risk management, and employee benefits. The companies are headquartered at 6825 Clayton Ave. For more information, call (314) 725-1414 or visit www.viaa4u.com. ST. LOUIS, MO (May 25, 2023) SWMW Law, one of the top law firms in the country focusing on plaintiffs asbestos, consumer and product liability litigation, has secured a $9.7 million verdict on behalf of the family of Sarah Krentz, a Wisconsin mother who died in 2019 of mesothelioma, a rare and fatal cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Mrs. Krentz was exposed to asbestos as a child when her stepfather, who worked as a sheet-metal mechanic, unknowingly brought home asbestos fibers on his clothing after working around asbestos-containing products at various jobsites in the Milwaukee area. The jury found 9 of the 11 named defendants at fault and awarded Mrs. Krentzs family nearly $10 million in compensatory damages - $3 million to Corey Krentz, Mrs. Krentzs husband, and $6.7 million to the estate of Mrs. Krentz. The judgment marks the first solo trial verdict for SWMW Law. Motor Casting Co. was found to be 50-percent at fault for Mrs. Krentzs death. Other defendants found liable included Briggs and Stratton, Butters-Fetting, Holming Company, John Hennes Trucking Company, Johns Manville, Mid-City Foundry, Navistar, Inc., and Nestle Purina (aka Friskies-Carnation Plant). The case had been pending in Milwaukee County since 2017, delayed several times due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other circumstances. Its been a long, hard-fought path to justice for Sarah and her family, said Partner Sophie Zavaglia, who served as lead trial attorney. This was a unique case in a lot of ways, especially due to Sarahs age we dont often see mesothelioma clients so young. Every case we handle is heartbreaking, but Sarahs was especially emotional for everyone involved. She was a devoted wife and mother who was robbed of a promising future at the hands of companies who put profits over people. The jury clearly understood that these companies must take responsibility for their negligence and be held accountable for the devastation they cause to families like Sarahs. Mrs. Krentz was first diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma in 2014 and passed away in 2019. She was only 39-years-old, leaving behind her husband and a 12-year-old son. It was a very tough year when Sarah was on hospice, Mr. Krentz recounted during his testimony at trial. [Our son] wanted to know why she was in a hospital bed, on oxygen. He would ask why Mom doesnt do certain things, didnt play with him anymore. Those things were very hard and difficult to explain. We lost our best friend. Zavaglia described the family as humble and hardworking, noting that the judgment grants one of Mrs. Krentzs final wishes. All Sarah wanted was to make sure her son would be taken care of, Zavaglia said. It was a long road to get here, but Im so proud and honored that we were able to make sure her final wish was granted. We just wish Sarah was still here to see it. In addition to Zavaglia, Associate Christina Ewers also assisted in the case, as well as paralegal Courtney Gass. Zavaglia also credits Partner Mike Brockland and Member Ben Schmickle with providing invaluable guidance throughout the case. The trial lasted two weeks and the jury deliberated for nearly three hours before handing down their verdict on May 19. The case, Estate of Sarah Krentz and Korey Krentz v. Motor Castings, et al., case no. 2017-CV007030, was presided over by the Hon. Christopher Foley. The war in Ukraine is the most important foreign policy issue facing the U.S. president today but aspiring candidate Ron DeSantis cant articulate a coherent view. By trying to placate everybody, the Republican governor of Florida is pleasing no one. And his dodging is an insult to the voters he is courting. Even after officially announcing his presidential run, DeSantis cant give a straight answer when asked about the Ukraine war. In a May 26 Newsmax interview, he praised former president Donald Trumps instinct of pushing for a settlement, but said he hoped the war would be over before the next presidential inauguration in January 2025. When pressed on what he would do if elected, DeSantis pivoted to China and called on European countries to do more for security on their own continent. Two days earlier, when asked during a Fox News interview what he would do about the Russia-Ukraine war on Day One of his presidency, DeSantis said he would first go after wokeness in the military. He then reiterated his support for a settlement, without elaborating what it would look like or how he would get there. In DeSantiss campaign launch event last week on Twitter, Ukraine was not mentioned. The candidates answers all sidestep the crucial question: Does DeSantis support continuing the huge U.S.-led program of military and economic aid or not? Every other GOP presidential candidate is able to answer this question. And every GOP lawmaker will have to weigh in on it this autumn, when Congress will have to vote on billions more in funding. Anyone who wants to be commander in chief should be able to lay out a basic plan for the war he or she would inherit. Vague comments on achieving settlements and avoiding quagmires amount to pablum. Many GOP insiders tell me that DeSantis is trying to avoid taking a side in the growing Republican foreign policy divide between New Right national conservatives, who are pushing for broad cuts in Ukraine aid, and traditional Republicans who dont think their standard-bearer in 2024 should be running against Biden as a dove. Hes trying to appeal to the hardcore populists and the regular Republicans, hoping to get enough people from both camps to get through the primary, one GOP foreign-policy insider told me. But if the hardcore people want the real thing, they can choose Trump. And if you want the anti-Trump, there are more appealing options. DeSantis likely doesnt care about the criticisms of his Ukraine policy coming from the candidates trailing him such as Nikki Haley, Mike Pence, Chris Sununu or Asa Hutchinson. But he clearly cares about Trump, and the former president is making Ukraine a top issue in his anti-DeSantis efforts. Trump wont express support for Ukraine at all, promising to end the war with a settlement within 24 hours. In March, DeSantis called the Russian invasion of Ukraine a territorial dispute, and said extensive U.S. involvement was not in Americas national interest. Then, facing criticism, he changed his tune, affirming that he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin is a war criminal. Trumps response was to accuse DeSantis of using neocon rhetoric. Trumps callousness and ignorance on Ukraine is pushing many GOP insiders to give DeSantis a temporary pass on the issue. Many Republicans on Capitol Hill and in donor circles assume that DeSantis will back Ukraine if he makes it to the general election, but he just needs to win the primary first. But what if that assumption is wrong? No one really knows what drives DeSantis on foreign policy these days. Some point to his hiring of a Ukraine hawk as his only known campaign foreign policy adviser. But that doesnt mean that this advisers view will win the day inside a populist-dominated campaign. Some say DeSantis is a Jacksonian, meaning that he thinks that U.S. foreign policy should be limited to a narrow calculation of national interest and that he eschews values promotion abroad. But even leading Jacksonian thinker Walter Russell Mead has said continued U.S. aid to Ukraine is crucial which goes further than DeSantis. Helping Ukraine is not a charity project to be undertaken out of sentiment. Nor is it a strategic distraction that weakens our hand in the Indo-Pacific, Mead wrote this week in the Wall Street Journal. In his blindness and folly, Vladimir Putin has handed the U.S. a golden opportunity. We should seize it with both hands. DeSantiss foreign policy record as a congressman is not a reliable indicator of his current views. He supported U.S. military aid to Ukraine as early as 2014 (along with the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement). He was against President Barack Obamas plan to use force in Syria but later criticized Trump for not defending the Kurds there. In any case, DeSantis doesnt seem to feel obligated to stick to any of his foreign policy positions from those days. DeSantis is correct when he says that we cant know what the Russia-Ukraine war will look like in 2025. Thats why he should tell American voters how he would handle the crisis if he were president now. If DeSantis is just following the polls, his equivocations make sense. But thats not a sound way to craft national security policy and its certainly not leadership. Josh Rogin is a columnist for the Global Opinions section of The Washington Post. East European NATO member Romania finally retired the last of its MiG-21 fighters in May 2023. This ended the nearly 70 years of MiG-21 use by European nations. Small numbers of MiG-21s still serve in a number of African countries. Romania has a small economy, and defense budget, compared to the original (West European) NATO countries and most other new East European NATO members. This has made it difficult, but not impossible to upgrade its military to meet NATO standards. That meant replacing all the Russian combat aircraft with more capable Western models. If you were on a budget, the best inexpensive NATO compliant fighter was the F-16. There was a thriving market in second-hand F-16s and upgrades for F-16s. of all ages. There was an upgrade market for MiG-21s after the Cold War ended in 1991. Romania kept its MiG-21s relevant for a long time via periodic upgrades. This kept Romanian MiG-21 LanceR models in service longer than anyone elses. Romanias transition to F-16s also involved a series of upgraded second-hand F-16s. For example, Romania is replacing its 17 current second-hand F-16Bs with 32 more modern Norwegian second-hand F-16s. Norway upgraded its F-16s to the equivalent of the F-16C Block 50 in 2010. Romania negotiated the purchase of the Norwegian F-16s for $12 million per aircraft. This included spare parts and support equipment plus maintenance and technical training services. Deliveries began on schedule in 2023 and will be completed in 2024. These aircraft are good for at least another ten years. Norway had the best maintained F-16s in NATO, and recently replaced its F-16s with F-35s. The Romanian F-16s from Portugal had been upgraded to a less advanced F-16 version. Romania also had 16 MiG-21 fighters in service until the last of these were retired in 2023. Romania joined NATO in 2004 and retiring its MiG-21s makes it NATO-compliant in fighter aircraft. Romania is one the three NATO nations (including Bulgaria and Turkey) with a Black Sea coastline and the only one bordering Ukraine. That land border is used to get NATO supplies into Ukraine. Romania also provides training for some Ukrainian troops and security for commercial shipping moving between Ukraine and the Turkish exit to the Mediterranean. Romania and many other NATO members have long used the F-16 because this aircraft has the most impressive combat record of any current jet fighter. The U.S. was the earliest and largest user of the F-16 and its F-16 fleet, containing many aircraft acquired in the 1980s, is rapidly aging. The average age of American F-16s is over 30 years, and the average aircraft has nearly 7,000 flight hours on it. Most European nations received their F-16s in the 1980s and have upgraded them since. But they are still basically elderly aircraft. Back in 2009 the first Block 40 F-16 passed 7,000 flight hours. In 2008 the first of the earliest models (a Block 25) F-16 passed 7,000 hours in the air. The F-16C was originally designed for a service life of 4,000 hours. Advances in engineering, materials and maintenance techniques have extended that to over 8,000 hours. Because of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, F-16s sent to these areas flew over a thousand hours a year more than what they would fly in peacetime. The F-16 follows the path of previous best-selling fighters. During the Cold War (1947-91) Russia built over 10,000 MiG-21s and the U.S over 5,000 F-4s. Since 1991 warplane manufacturing numbers have plummeted about 90 percent. The F-16 was popular enough to keep the production lines going strong into the 2020s. The U.S. still has about a thousand F-16s in service, with about half in reserve units. F-16s built so far were exported to 27 countries. America has hundreds in storage, available for sale on the used airplane market. The end of the Cold War also led to a sharp cut in U.S. Air Force fighter squadrons. Moreover, the new F-35s are replacing all U.S. F-15s and F-16s, a process that will be complete by 2030. That means the U.S. will have plenty of little-used F-16s sitting around, and many allies in need of low-cost jet fighters. Many current F-16 users planned to replace the F-16 with the F-35, but that aircraft costs more than twice as much as a new F-16V so air forces are seeking to operate a mixed force of F-35s and late model F-16s. NATO nations maintain warplanes that are believed capable of handling the Russian air force. The current war in Ukraine has revealed the actual capabilities of Russian warplanes, which turned out to be much less than expected. This means many NATO air forces can get by with upgraded F-16s rather than replacing F-16s with the new American F-35. Most F-35s are going to export customers. Since the 1990s most F-16s produced were for export and these, like the Israeli F-16I, cost as much as $70 million each. Some nations, like South Korea, built over a hundred F-16s under license. The 16-ton F-16 also has an admirable combat record and is very popular with pilots. It has been successful at ground support as well. When equipped with 4-6 smart bombs, it is an effective bomber. Since first entering service some 4,600 F-16s have flown over 12 million hours. Despite fears that a single-engine fighter would be less safe, F-16s have, in the 21st century, suffered a remarkably low accident rate (loss or major damage) of 2.4 per 100,000 flight hours. The F-16 is one of the most modified jet fighters in service. While most are still called the F-16C, there are actually seven major mods, identified by block number (32, 40, 42, 50, 52, 60, 70 and 72), plus the Israeli F-16I, which is a major modification of the Block 52. The F-16D is a two-seat trainer version of F-16Cs. The various block mods included a large variety of new components (five engines, four sets of avionics, five generations of electronic warfare gear, five radars and many other mechanical, software, cockpit and electrical mods.) Until the Block 70 came along, the most advanced F-16 was the F-16 Block 60. The best example of this is a special version of the Block 60 developed for the UAE (United Arab Emirates). The UAE bought 80 "Desert Falcons" (the F-16E) which is optimized for air combat. It is a 22-ton aircraft based on the Block 52 model, but with an AESA radar and lots of other electronic and mechanical enhancements. The Block 70 goes beyond the Block 60, especially in terms of electronics and airframe enhancement to extend flight life. The most successful F-16 user is Israel which set a number of combat records with its F-16s. Israel plans to keep some of its late-model F-16s flying into the 2030s as it retires the oldest ones. At the end of 2016, Israel retired the last of its 125 F-16A fighters. The first 70 were acquired in 1980 and 1981 and included 8 two-seater F-16B trainers. One of the F-16As achieved a record by being the single F-16 with the most air-to-air kills (6.5), all achieved in 1982 using three different pilots. Israel received 50 used F-16As in 1994 (including 14 B models) and used these mainly as trainers. These F-16As were the first of the nearly 400 F-16s Israel obtained from the United States since 1980. Israeli F-16s have shot down 47 aircraft, which is 70 percent of the 67 kills for all F-16s built. Israeli F-16A aircraft flew 474,000 sorties and spent over 335,000 hours in the air over 35 years. Israel was the most energetic user of the F-16 and also took the lead in developing upgrades and accessories. This helped sell the older F-16As, even in a crowded market with more and more of these oldest F-16s being retired rather than upgraded. That is easier to do with the more recent F-16C models and that is what Israel did with all of its F-16Cs. So far this year at least 160 Palestinians have died because of Palestinian attacks on Israelis. In all of 2022 there were 230 such deaths. Most of these deaths were the result of Israelis responding to Hamas attacks from Gaza and, increasingly from the West Bank and Lebanon. This has been going on for decades and is described by Hamas as an ongoing effort to destroy Israel and drive all Jews from the middle east. Some of the efforts are massive but always end in failure with far more Arabs than Israelis killed. Hamas sees these wars more as media campaigns than military ones, and they see victory achieved by getting more Palestinians killed. A classic example was visible in the aftermath of the 2009 war where Hamas lied regularly to exaggerate the nature and extent of their losses. For example, Palestinians claimed that the 22 day long 2009 War indiscriminately killed civilians. Hamas claimed that 1,434 Palestinians were killed. Hamas further claimed that only 235 were Hamas fighters, while another 239 were police officers, and 960 of the dead were civilians. Hamas admitted that most of the "civilians'' were men, mostly of military age. They also claimed that 121 of the dead civilians were women and 288 were children, which was defined as anyone under 18, even if they were armed teenagers attacking Israelis. It went downhill from there. The Arab world unites behind these lies, and encourages all other Moslem nations to join them. Many Western nations, seeing a cheap way to ingratiate themselves with the Moslem world, join in. One thing Hamas and Fatah (in the West Bank) agree on is that over half a century of failed Palestinian (and Arab) efforts to destroy Israel are not their fault. They insist that Arabs are victims of a conspiracy by Jews and the West, to sustain Israel and keep the Arabs down. This is the core of Palestinian propaganda on all their media, and now accepted by many leftist supporters in the West. Just another conspiracy theory, but one with thousands of heavily armed believers, who will kill if they get an opportunity. And trying to defend yourself against this is called oppressing the Palestinians. Hamas has long been a big believer in using civilians as human shields, often against their will. Israeli soldiers are not allowed to use civilians as human shields, even to protect Israeli soldiers from attacks by Palestinians. Hamas, on the other hand, encourages the use of human shields, and describes, in their training manuals, how best to do it. Lots of dead civilians are essential to Hamas success in getting enough Western countries threatening Israel and forcing ceasefires and concessions. Much of what Hamas knows about using human shields it learned from Hezbollah up in Lebanon. There, Hezbollah has been using human shields for decades. Back in 2006 Israel released video, and other evidence, showing how Hezbollah used civilians as human shields during rocket attacks on Israel. Hezbollah's attitude in response to this was largely one of, "so what?" On a regular basis Israel has to deal with violence coming from Gaza and the West Bank, two neighbors that are obsessed with destroying Israel. These entities are not really countries in the traditional sense. Rather the two began as refuges for Arabs who, in 1948, did not want to live in the new state of Israel. The West Bank was originally part of Jordan, an Israeli neighbor that was a stable monarchy in 1948 and still is. Jordan also had problems with Palestinians and killed or expelled the most troublesome Palestinians, especially those who wanted to overthrow the monarchy and turn Jordan into a bae for carrying out attacks on Israel. Jordan also declared that the West Bank was no longer part of J0rdan but no one else wanted the West Bank either. Palestinians behaved similarly in most other Middle Eastern countries, so their Arab rulers responded like the Jordanians did and killed or expelled the most troublesome Palestinians while tolerating the Palestinians who were willing to behave. Despite that many Palestinians in Lebanon and Syria never became part of the local community. This is a common practice in the Arab world, where non-native Arabs are not welcome as migrants or refugees. That is not the case in most Western countries, even though some of their new Palestinian citizens remain devoted to attacking Israel or local Jews. Ancient feuds and prejudices tend to persist in the Middle East. Israels problem is that it is not a Middle Eastern country. It is a prosperous democracy with an affluent and well-educated population that is mainly Jewish but contains a large Arab minority as well as smaller religious minorities. Many Israeli Arabs are Christians, while Jews which migrated from Arab countries are Middle Eastern, not Western in appearance and behavior. They spoke Arabic and Israel united all these minorities by adopting Hebrew, an ancient Semitic language that ceased to be used by anyone over a thousand years ago. That meant all the different groups forming the modern state of Israel had to learn Hebrew. It was often annoying but also unifying. There are three million Palestinians in the West Bank and two million in Gaza. Their obsession with destroying Israel and the proliferation of armed terrorist and terrorist-related groups in the West Bank and Gaza sustains very corrupt and inefficient local governments. Many Palestinians want to emigrate to less chaotic countries, particularly in the West. That is difficult because so many Palestinians never adapt to their new homelands and resort to criminal or terrorist behavior. Criminal or terrorist behavior continues to thrive in the West Bank, where the local Fatah group running the government promotes violence against Israelis to distract the Palestinians there from overthrowing the corrupt Fatah bureaucrats. During the first three months of 2023, Fatha claimed that there were nearly three thousand acts of resistance toward Israel and Israelis. A more tangible achievement was the murder of twelve Israelis by Palestinians. This is the sort of thing Fatah politicians and Fatah controlled media have been encouraging enthusiastically for decades. Fatah not only encourages all Palestinians, including children, to join in the violence, but also spends a lot of money on rewarding those who succeed but are killed or arrested and imprisoned. This is a common practice throughout the region but no one does it so energetically as Fatah. May 30, 2023: In the West Bank an Israeli civilian was shot dead by gunmen belonging to the Fatah-backed Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigade. May 29, 2023: In the West Bank, Israeli troops arrested two men. While doing this the soldiers were attacked by Palestinians. The Israelis opened fire and wounded at least eight of the Palestinian attackers. May 27, 2023: Egypts western neighbor Libya remains divided and deadlocked. This is a problem Egypt, and to a lesser extent Israel, have been dealing with for a long time. Currently Libya has two main ruling factions, one in the east based in Tobruk and another in Tripoli, in the west. The UN backs the Tripoli faction, as do local Islamic militias and Turkish troops and their mercenaries. The eastern faction controls most of the oil and export ports. The Russian Wagner Group mercenaries are based in the east but now see themselves as peacekeepers and work with the Turks to maintain a ceasefire. This allows Russian oil firms to operate in Libya and do work for the Libyan national oil company. Both factions support national elections to unite the country but neither faction trusts the others enough to proceed with elections. Russia and the Turks refuse to withdraw their troops from Libya until they receive guarantees that their interests in Libya are respected. The UN and NATO oppose that because the Tripoli faction wants to legitimize an illegal treaty signed by the Tripoli faction in 2019 granting Turkey some of Greeces offshore oil and natural gas rights in an area between Libya and Turkey that ignores existing, and internationally recognized, claims on that area. Turkey and Greece are both NATO members and NATO backs Greece in this matter. Turkey wont withdraw its forces from Libya until a new national Libyan government assures the Turks that the illegal agreement is confirmed by a national Libyan government. Many people in both factions do not want to be stuck with a treaty that the UN and NATO consider illegal. Russia is no friend of NATO and is currently at war with NATO in Ukraine. Turkey is also a NATO member but most other NATO members would like to expel the Turks from NATO and there is no legal mechanism for that. Turks and Russians are troublemakers in Europe and Libya is a foreign branch of that mischief. Egypt, which long supported the eastern faction, is now willing to work with both factions as well as the Turks and Russians to reach a settlement in Libya. For a long time, the primary Egyptian interest in Libya was the threat of Islamic terrorists getting across the Libyan border into Egypt. In Libya the eastern faction proved very effective at controlling Islamic terrorist activities and gradually eliminating most of them. Currently the only Islamic terrorist activity in Libya comes from Islamic terror groups that raise money by working with people smugglers. That is all about getting paid, not carrying out attacks in the name of defending Islam. Another problem Egypt and Israel have to deal with is Iran. Currently Iran is encouraging Hamas to boast of its preparations for another war with Israel. Hamas believes that if they can inflict enough damage on Israel by killing or capturing soldiers and civilians they can prompt Moslem and Western countries to pressure Israel to allow more access to Gaza and send more aid. Hamas also hopes that Israel bombs and ground forces do enough damage inside Gaza to allow Hamas to get away with portraying itself as a victim and again persuading other nations to help. This will be difficult because the Arab donors no longer trust Hamas (or Fatah either) and are put off by the recent Iranian announcement that it was still subsidizing Hamas, which has run Gaza and its 1.5 million Palestinians since 2005. Iran supported Hamas early on. There were recently more rumors that Iran had stopped supporting Hamas. Iran had decreased its support, in large part because of Western sanctions for Iranian support of terrorism and lower oil prices, but never cut off Hamas completely. Although Sunni Hamas sometimes persecutes Shia, Iran supports energetic Hamas efforts to attack Israel. Hamas also supports Islamic terrorists active in Egypt, which turned Egypt completely against Hamas and helped put Egypt firmly into the anti-Iran Sunni coalition. The Iran link makes Hamas an enemy as far as most Sunni Moslem nations are concerned. Hamas has made a lot of bad decisions since 2005 and the Iran link is seen as one of the worst. In response to Arab states who have cut aid to Gaza and the West Bank, Palestinian leaders have quietly told the reluctant Arab donors that if they do not increase aid there will be violent Palestinian protests (in Gaza, West Bank and Jerusalem) against the Arab donors as well as Israel. These Arab donors (mainly Gulf oil states like Saudi Arabia, UAE and Kuwait) have lost patience with the Palestinians and not only cut donor aid, which was being stolen or misused by corrupt Palestinian leaders, but also openly allied themselves with Israel against Iran. The Arab world still technically backs the Palestinians and their effort to destroy Israel but has lost confidence in the Palestinians. By providing sanctuary to Islamic terror groups that operate in Egypt, Hamas has made an enemy of Egypt. Thus, since 2012, Egypt has limited the ability of Gaza residents to enter or leave Gaza via Egypt. Worse, the Egyptians have gone after the smuggling tunnels. The most successful tactic has been filling the smuggling tunnels with water. This began in 2013 when the Egyptians dug small canals for seawater that could then be pumped into tunnels discovered. It was eventually found that flooding permanently destroyed the tunnel better than any other method because it caused the sandy soil in the area to collapse and remain unstable. It is believed that only about twenty tunnels are still operating and every week several of those are discovered and flooded. The army engineers have learned that you have to not only flood the tunnels but keep flooding them because the Palestinians can obtain pumps to remove the water and repair the damage. But if you keep the tunnel flooded long enough it collapses and has to be rebuilt as if there were never a tunnel there in the first place. Egypt has also created a buffer zone along the border by moving Egyptians out and destroying all buildings. This means tunnels from Gaza now have to be over a kilometer long and deeper as well to evade detection. To make matters worse Egyptian police watch buildings within a few kilometers of the Gaza border for signs of a tunnel entrance. The police are less likely to take bribes from smuggling tunnel operators because Gaza-based Islamic terrorists have killed a lot of Egyptian police and soldiers in the last few years. May 26, 2023: In the West Bank a Palestinian man was shot and killed as he attempted to sneak into a Jewish settlement and kill Israelis living there. Security camera video shows the man crawling under a gate holding a knife and then walking off looking for a victim. Before he could do that he was shot dead by an armed settler. May 22, 2023: Israel troops carried out a raid in the West Bank to arrest several members of the Palestinian Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigade. The soldiers were fired on as they approached the building the Al Aqsa men were living in. A gun battle broke out that left three Palestinians dead and one arrested. A large quantity of weapons and explosives was also seized. The Al Aqsa men were manufacturing bombs. The explosives were detonated where they were after nearby civilians were moved away. Al Aqsa blames Israel for all this because Israeli settlers buy land from Palestinians and build settlements. Al Aqsa insists it is illegal for Palestinians to sell land to Israelis. Many land-owning Palestinians want to sell their land and move somewhere else where there is less Al Aqsa and violence in general. Israel has carried out several similar raids in the West Bank this month. May 13, 2023: Israeli soldiers raided a West Bank location where some armed Palestinians were based and planning armed attacks on Israelis. Two Palestinians were there and opened fire on the Israelis. After a brief gun battle the two Palestinians were killed and a large quantity of weapons and ammunition were found with them. In the last few days there have been several of these raids that resulted in 25 armed Palestinians being arrested. May 11, 2023: An unguided rocket fired from Gaza hit an apartment building in Israel, killing one civilian and wounding eight. May 9, 2023: Today a major rocket attack from Gaza began. Over the next five days nearly 1,500 rockets and mortar shells were fired into southern Israel. Most of the rockets headed for populated areas were detected and intercepted by Iron Dome missile defense system. About 20 percent of the rockets fired from Gaza were defective and landed inside Gaza, killing three Gaza civilians and wounding three others. Israel used UAVs, some of them armed with missiles, to find the rocket launching sites and fire on them if there were still rockets waiting to be launched. May 8, 2023: Israel began a major effort to kill leaders of Iran-backed PIJ (Palestinian Islamic Jihad), which is based in Gaza and responsible for the growing number of rocket attacks on southern Israel as well as more ambitious operations in the West Bank to kill or kidnap Israelis. Hamas had a major presence in Gaza when they formed JOR (Joint Operations Room). This was a coalition of twelve Palestinian factions seeking, and sometimes succeeding in attacking Israel or individual Israelis. Hamas supervises JOR and supplies rockets and other weapons from Iran. Israel has armed patrol boats operating along the Gaza coast and regularly intercepting Iranian arms shipments trying to land weapons from fishing boats. These shipments have an even more difficult time getting across the Gaza border with Egypt. The Egyptians are often the victims of Iranian weapons and guard their border with Gaza. Israel and Egypt exchange information on Iranian arms shipments and often cooperate in capturing the smugglers trying to get in via Sinai or Iranian smuggling tunnels. Israel had found and killed at least six leaders of the JOR and that encouraged Iran to increase its weapons smuggling efforts. May 6, 2023: In southern Syria (Daraa province) on the Israeli border, there has been a lot of random violence so far in 2013, with over 200 separate incidents of violence that have caused over 500 casualties. The violence is mainly against Syrian army personnel. This level of violence remained fairly constant since 2018. This is part of the undeclared war between Iranian and Syrian forces going on there since 2018. Anonymous assassins use pistols and hidden bombs to kill those who work, or worked for government forces or Russia and Syria backed local militias. There are also attacks against former members of ISIL and other militant groups. These victims had accepted amnesty. Russian and Assad forces openly force Iran-backed groups and individuals out of the area. There is no open violence because Iran, Syria and Russia are still officially allies. Israel sometimes fires on Iranian forces operating in Daraa, especially near the Israeli border. Israel also shares intel with Russia and Syria about Syrian officers who are secretly working for Iran. The Iranians pay well, and in dollars. Israel will sometimes release evidence of this to the media, so that Iranians back home have another reason to oppose Iranian foreign wars. Negotiations have been underway between Iran and Russia/Syria since 2020 but have not made much progress. The covert Iranian violence is just another incentive for Syria to get the Iranian agents out of the area. In 2022 and 2023 much of the violence is from other groups, some of them criminal gangs retaliating against those who refuse to pay for protection from the violence. Daraa is the most violent province but similar violence continues in many parts of Syria. May 4, 2023: Visiting Syria for two days, Ebrahim Raisi, the Iranian president, met with key members of Hamas and Islamic Jihad. These two terror groups are based in Gaza and depend on Iran for financial support and weapons. Raisi discussed planned terror attacks in southern Israel, the West Bank, Jerusalem and now from Lebanon. Iran forced Hamas to establish a partnership with Hezbollah to recruit Palestinians living in Lebanon to carry out rocket attacks into Israel. The Lebanese are not happy with this because Hamas could get too aggressive and trigger a major Israeli response against Hamas and the larger Hezbollah in southern Lebanon as well as terrorist targets throughout Lebanon. Iran is using a complex and dangerous strategy with all these terrorist groups. For one thing, these groups are divided by religion. Hezbollah and Iran are Shia while Palestinians are Sunni or Christian. Then there is the ethnicity problem. All the Arabs are Semitic while the Iranians are Indo-European and have a history of treating Arabs poorly. Most Lebanese want Iranian and Palestinian radicalism gone from Lebanon, or at least kept quiet. Firing rockets into Israel is dangerous for all Lebanese. Iran is playing a dangerous and explosive game here, one that could backfire on Iran. Most Iranians oppose these expensive sponsorships of Arab terror groups that cost a lot, make a lot of noise and dont seem to be hurting the Israelis. The popular anger against the government in Iran grows and Raisi has to keep that in mind while working with all these Arab terror groups and their demands for more money. Raisi also met with the Syrian president Bashar Assad to discuss continued cooperation between Syria and Iran as well as problems with Israeli, Islamic terrorist and Turkish operations in Syria, especially the ones aimed at Iranians in Syria. Then there is the Syrian effort to get back in the Arab League and accept large amounts of Arab aid and investment to rebuild Syrias shattered economy. Iran does not get along with many members of the Arab League while Syria wants to get cozy with the League. In late 2011 Syria was suspended from the Arab League and many of the 21 other League members cut diplomatic relations or imposed sanctions. The Arab League was unable to do much more. By early 2013 the Arab League was still unable to muster enough unity to call for international (Western) intervention in Syria. The Arab League did that in 2011 for Libya and many Arabs considered it shameful that the Arab world could not handle the military intervention itself. Despite trillions of dollars in oil income and hundreds of millions of Arabs demanding something be done, the Arab League had to call on outsiders to save Libya from degenerating into an interminable bloodbath. That is what happened in Syria and many Arabs refused to accept responsibility and just blamed the West and Israel for the mess. Given that toxic atmosphere, Western nations, including NATO member Turkey, were reluctant to do what the Arabs wanted done but would not admit they cannot do it themselves. Iran and the Russians intervened in support of the Assads and the slaughter of pro-rebel civilians continued as did Assad efforts to force pro-rebel civilians out of Syria. May 1, 2023: In northern Syria (Aleppo) Israeli airstrikes against targets at the international airport destroyed Iranian weapons recently flown in. Iran claimed the lost material was earthquake aid but the secondary explosions (by the Iranian weapons) indicated otherwise. One soldier was killed during this attack and the airport was closed temporarily. Three members of an Iran backed militia and one Syrian soldier were killed. This was the 16th Israeli airsrike against Iranian targets in Syria so far in 2023. April 29, 2023: In central Syria (Homs province) an Israeli airstrike hit an airport Iran has been using to fly in weapons for Hezbollah and the new Lebanese branch of the Gaza-based Hamas. April 24, 2023: Finland has ordered the Israeli Davids Sling (formerly Magic Wand) air defense system to improve its ability to defeat Russian aircraft and missiles (cruise or ballistic). The initial $345 million purchase is one battery plus support equipment. There is an option to buy a second battery for about $250 million. April 19, 2023: In southern Syria (the Syrian Golan Heights) Israeli artillery fired on stockpiled equipment and supplies belonging to Iran-backed Hezbollah. Not So FAST? Spring 2023 State of Streaming Survey Says... New 2023 Spring edition of State of Streaming survey launches, shows shifting focus Page 1 As last weeks Streaming Media East 2023 wrapped up, Evan Shapiro treated his audience to a whirlwind tour of the streaming media space and its ever-widening cast of players. The day prior, at the research keynote, the team behind the seventh State of Streaming survey did the same. Today its possible to watch both keynotes as well as download the State of Streaming Spring 2023 report. The 24-page report covers topics ranging from private- versus public-cloud usage, the continued fluctuation of viewership and subscription numbers, expectations around glass-to-glass latency and the continued rollout of free ad-supported TV (FAST for short) on a number of streaming platforms. Together the State of Streaming Spring 2023 report paints a picture of a media creation and distribution ecosystem71% of respondents both create and distribute content, a significant increase from the 46% in our initial Spring 2020 surveythat continues to diversify at both ends of the viewership and subscriber spectrum. In addition, the surveys global respondent makeup provides insights into market growth across almost every continent, fitting for a research keynote panel with representatives from three continents. As part of the presentation, George Bukochava, the CEO of Tulix, which sponsored the survey, shared insights into the shifting use of resolutions and data rates, such as the increased usage of 720p60 which allows older mobile devices to consume high-framerate content such as global sporting events. DOWNLOAD THE STATE OF STREAMING SPRING 2023 REPORT Tulix brought along a partner, Gustavo de Medeiros, who is president of the FAST Alliance, whose insights into the shifts in FAST adoption were key to understanding this Spring 2023 editions data around FAST. Crafted and analyzed by the Help Me Stream Research Foundation team, the current survey also delves into a number of business and technical concerns facing todays streaming media organizations. For the first time in survey history, simultaneous concerns about capital expenditures (CapEx) and operational expenses (opex) present insight into the possible pricing conundrum of an industry heavily reliant on public cloud solutions. While many large streamers are forging their own private clouds, the rank-and-file streaming organizations are faced with higher per-user delivery costs at a time when production costs are also rising. A final panelist, Eric Schumacher-Rasmussen in his final role as Streaming Media conference chair, also reiterated a point hed made during the presentation of last autumns research findings, namely the fact that lower-end revenues are picking up at a time when upper-end revenues are tapering off their decline. FAST was the talk of the conference, and theres lots more detail on the shift in FAST thinking in the report launching today. The team at Streaming Media magazine has prepared a special launch page for readers to download the State of Streaming Spring 2023 report, so get your copy today! Page 1 abrdn Global Infrastructure Income Fund ("ASGI") abrdn Asia-Pacific Income Fund, Inc. ("FAX") PHILADELPHIA, PA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / The above-noted abrdn U.S. Closed-End Funds (the "Funds" or individually the "Fund"), today announced that the Funds paid the distributions noted in the table below on May 31, 2023, on a per share basis to all shareholders of record as of May 19, 2023 (ex-dividend date May 18, 2023). Ticker Exchange Fund Amount ASGI NYSE abrdn Global Infrastructure Income Fund $ 0.1200 FAX NYSE American abrdn Asia-Pacific Income Fund, Inc. $ 0.0275 Each Fund has adopted a distribution policy to provide investors with a stable distribution out of current income, supplemented by realized capital gains and, to the extent necessary, paid-in capital. Under applicable U.S. tax rules, the amount and character of distributable income for each Fund's fiscal year can be finally determined only as of the end of the Fund's fiscal year. However, under Section 19 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act") and related rules, the Funds may be required to indicate to shareholders the estimated source of certain distributions to shareholders. The following tables set forth the estimated amounts of the sources of the distributions for purposes of Section 19 of the 1940 Act and the rules adopted thereunder. The tables have been computed based on generally accepted accounting principles. The tables include estimated amounts and percentages for the current distributions paid this month as well as for the cumulative distributions paid relating to fiscal year to date, from the following sources: net investment income; net realized short-term capital gains; net realized long-term capital gains; and return of capital. The estimated compositions of the distributions may vary because the estimated composition may be impacted by future income, expenses and realized gains and losses on securities and currencies. Each Fund's estimated sources of the current distribution paid this month and for its current fiscal year to date are as follows: Estimated Amounts of Current Distribution per Share Fund Distribution Amount Net Investment Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains** Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital ASGI $0.1200 $0.0372 31% $0.0168 14% $0.0660 55% - - FAX $0.0275 $0.0146 53% - - - - $0.0129 47% Estimated Amounts of Fiscal Year* to Date Cumulative Distributions per Share Fund Distribution Amount Net Investment Income Net Realized Short-Term Gains ** Net Realized Long-Term Gains Return of Capital ASGI $0.9600 $0.2976 31% $0.1344 14% $0.5280 55% - - FAX $0.1925 $0.1020 53% - - - - $0.0905 47% * ASGI has a 9/30 fiscal year end; FAX has a 10/31 fiscal year end. **includes currency gains Where the estimated amounts above show a portion of the distribution to be a "Return of Capital," it means that Fund estimates that it has distributed more than its income and capital gains; therefore, a portion of your distribution may be a return of capital. A return of capital may occur for example, when some or all of the money that you invested in a Fund is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect the Fund's investment performance and should not be confused with "yield" or "income." The amounts and sources of distributions reported in this notice are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The final determination of the source of all distributions for the current year will only be made after year-end. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during the remainder of the fiscal year and may be subject to change based on tax regulations. After the end of each calendar year, a Form 1099-DIV will be sent to shareholders for the prior calendar year that will tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. The following table provides the Funds' total return performance based on net asset value (NAV) over various time periods compared to the Funds' annualized and cumulative distribution rates. Fund Performance and Distribution Rate Information Fund Average Annual Total Return on NAV for the 5 Year Period Ending 04/30/2023 Current Fiscal Period's Annualized Distribution Rate on NAV Cumulative Total Return on NAV Cumulative Distribution Rate on NAV ASGI 9.63% 6.72% 19.70% 3.92% FAX -0.48% 10.44% 17.69% 5.22% 1 Return data is net of all Fund expenses and fees and assumes the reinvestment of all distributions reinvested at prices obtained under the Fund's dividend reinvestment plan. 2 Based on the Fund's NAV as of April 30, 2023. 3 The Fund launched within the past 5 years; the performance and distribution rate information presented reflects data from inception (July 29, 2020) through April 30, 2023. Shareholders should not draw any conclusions about a Fund's investment performance from the amount of the Fund's current distributions or from the terms of the distribution policy (the "Distribution Policy"). While NAV performance may be indicative of the Fund's investment performance, it does not measure the value of a shareholder's investment in the Fund. The value of a shareholder's investment in the Fund is determined by the Fund's market price, which is based on the supply and demand for the Fund's shares in the open market. Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Funds may distribute any long-term capital gains more frequently than the limits provided in Section 19(b) under the 1940 Act and Rule 19b-1 thereunder. Therefore, distributions paid by the Funds during the year may include net income, short-term capital gains, long-term capital gains and/or a return of capital. Net income dividends and short-term capital gain dividends, while generally taxable at ordinary income rates, may be eligible, to the extent of qualified dividend income earned by the Funds, to be taxed at a lower rate not to exceed the maximum rate applicable to your long-term capital gains. Distributions made in any calendar year in excess of investment company taxable income and net capital gain are treated as taxable ordinary dividends to the extent of undistributed earnings and profits, and then as a return of capital that reduces the adjusted basis in the shares held. To the extent return of capital distributions exceed the adjusted basis in the shares held, capital gain is recognized with a holding period based on the period the shares have been held at the date such amount is received. The payment of distributions in accordance with the Distribution Policy may result in a decrease in the Fund's net assets. A decrease in the Fund's net assets may cause an increase in the Fund's annual operating expense ratio and a decrease in the Fund's market price per share to the extent the market price correlates closely to the Fund's net asset value per share. The Distribution Policy may also negatively affect the Fund's investment activities to the extent that the Fund is required to hold larger cash positions than it typically would hold or to the extent that the Fund must liquidate securities that it would not have sold, for the purpose of paying the distribution. Each Fund's Board has the right to amend, suspend or terminate the Distribution Policy at any time. The amendment, suspension or termination of the Distribution Policy may affect the Fund's market price per share. Investors should consult their tax advisor regarding federal, state and local tax considerations that may be applicable in their particular circumstances. Circular 230 disclosure : To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the U.S. Treasury, we inform you that any U.S. tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. In the United States, abrdn is the marketing name for the following affiliated, registered investment advisers: abrdn Inc., abrdn Investments Limited, abrdn Australia Limited, abrdn Asia Limited, Aberdeen Capital Management, LLC, abrdn ETFs Advisors LLC and abrdn Alternative Funds Limited. Closed-end funds are traded on the secondary market through one of the stock exchanges. A Fund's investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor's shares may be worth more or less than the original cost. Shares of closed-end funds may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) the net asset value (NAV) of the fund's portfolio. There is no assurance that a Fund will achieve its investment objective. Past performance does not guarantee future results. https://www.abrdn.com/en-us/cefinvestorcenter ### For More Information Contact: abrdn U.S. Closed-End Funds Investor Relations 1-800-522-5465 [email protected] SOURCE: abrdn U.S. Closed-End Funds View source version on accesswire.com: SHARJAH, UAE / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Online VPN Apps are trending nowadays, and their emergence has led KING PRO VPN, a significant provider of VPN (Virtual Private Network) services, to announce the launch of its free unlimited VPN service. With a wide network of servers across multiple countries, KING PRO VPN allows users to browse the internet anonymously and securely, unlocking any content with good-speed servers using its secure VPN Proxy. In today's digital age, online security and privacy have become paramount concerns for individuals and businesses. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats and the ever-growing need to protect sensitive information, the King Pro free VPN app is a trusted solution to safeguarding digital ecosystems. The company comprehends the importance of online security and privacy in today's interconnected world. They are generating a user-friendly and free unlimited VPN service that allows users to browse the internet anonymously, access region-restricted content, and protect their data from prying eyes. With the new developments, KING PRO VPN has launched the following services: Online Security: KING PRO VPN ensures quality encryption standards, even when using public Wi-Fi networks. With its secure VPN proxy , users can browse with peace of mind, knowing their data is protected. , users can browse with peace of mind, knowing their data is protected. Strong Privacy: KING PRO VPN never tracks, stores, or spies on users' browsing data. The company prioritizes user privacy and aims to build trust by only partnering with reputable brands and platforms. Global Servers: With servers located in multiple countries across the globe, KING PRO VPN provides users with the ability to access region-locked content, enhance online security, and bypass internet censorship. Unlock Any Content: The King PRO online VPN app allows users to bypass restrictions and access blocked content, ensuring a seamless browsing experience and increasing online security. Browse Anonymously: KING PRO VPN encrypts internet traffic, masks IP addresses, and makes it difficult for third parties to track online activities, providing users complete anonymity and making it the best VPN for streaming . . 24/7 Support: The company offers round-the-clock support to address any queries or concerns that users may have. KING PRO VPN is committed to enhancing customer satisfaction through its professional support staff. KING PRO VPN facilitates a suitable VPN for streaming using an extensive network of servers in numerous countries, making it a top choice for users seeking a global VPN solution. With a wide range of virtual locations, KING PRO VPN allows users to access localized content, stream region-restricted media, and secure connections anywhere. Furthermore, KING PRO VPN can connect and protect multiple devices simultaneously. Whether a user uses a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or any other device, people can safeguard the digital ecosystem with a single global VPN account. It enhances online security and provides the convenience of managing all devices through a free VPN app. With KING PRO VPN, people can enjoy encrypted connections, anonymous browsing, and protection against cyber threats, all while maintaining control over their digital footprint. The company provides a premium VPN service with an extensive range of security checks. It employs cutting-edge security techniques, including modern encryption technologies and multi-factor authentication, to fortify the internet connection and ensure digital security. Furthermore, KING PRO VPN recognizes the specific needs of gamers and offers a gaming VPN setup that prioritizes online security while maximizing the gaming experience. This specialized service optimizes connections for gaming, reduces latency, and ensures smooth gameplay. Features like split tunnelling allow gaming data to be transported through the VPN while maintaining the performance of other programs. the company has earned a loyal and ever-growing community of satisfied customers with its remarkable VPN setup. About the Company: KING PRO VPN is an emerging provider of VPN services, offering a wide network of servers across multiple countries. With a focus on online security, privacy, and user satisfaction, KING PRO VPN aims to provide the best VPN for streaming experience for individuals and businesses worldwide. For further details, potential clients can visit the following links and download the app from the play store: Website | Google Play store | Facebook Media Details: Company Name: KING PRO VPN Website: http://www.kingprovpn.com/ Company Email: [email protected] Contact Person: Salman Sair City: Sharja Country: United Arab Emirates SOURCE: KING PRO VPN View source version on accesswire.com: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has introduced newly appointed Head of Odesa Regional State Administration Oleh Kiper in Odesa. "I held a meeting with the regional military command and heads of law enforcement agencies to discuss the current situation in Odesa region. I introduced the newly appointed head of the Odesa Regional State Administration, Oleh Kiper," the head of state said on the Telegram channel on Wednesday. Zelenskyy described Odesa region as "a priority region of our independent state." "During the meeting, we discussed important topical issues: restoration of the energy infrastructure damaged by Russian shelling and ensuring its stable functioning, reboot of key enterprises under martial law, meeting the needs of internally displaced persons, and rehabilitation of the military," he said. The president also "celebrated the work of the regional office of the Security Service of Ukraine in countering the enemy's reconnaissance and subversive activities." Company's ranking at #115 puts it in the top 25% of North American solution providers. NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / BCM One, a leading provider of NextGen Communications and Managed Services for IT leaders and resellers, announced today that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named BCM One to its 2023 Solution Provider 500 list. CRN's annual Solution Provider 500 ranks North America's largest solution providers by revenue and serves as the gold standard for recognizing some of the channel's most successful companies. This year's list of companies represents combined revenue of more than $475.9 billion, and the honorees are among the top influencers impacting today's IT industry and the global technology supply chain. BCM One, which was ranked 115th on the list, helps IT leaders and resellers worldwide simplify and optimize their communications networks through its family of brands, which include SIP.US, SIPTRUNK, SkySwitch, and Flowroute. BCM One is known for its nimble and client-centric approach, including the ability to deliver an array of solutions all on one bill with one contact and one support team. "We are pleased to once again be honored by CRN as one of North America's top solution providers," stated Geoff Bloss, CEO of BCM One. "This recognition supports our continued focus on building out our portfolio of solutions and helping our channel partners grow their businesses." "It's a distinct honor to recognize CRN's 2023 Solution Provider 500. These are today's top technology integrators, strategic service providers, and IT consulting firms, making this list the go-to resource for creating strategic partnerships among technology vendors and today's top-performing IT solution providers," said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. "My heartfelt congratulations go out to each of these companies for the significant impact they make on the continued growth and success of the IT channel." CRN's 2023 Solution Provider 500 list will be available online at www.CRN.com/SP500. ABOUT BCM ONE Founded in 1992, BCM One is the leading NextGen Communications and Managed Services provider. Serving over 20,000 customers worldwide and 5,000+ channel partners, BCM One offers telecom solutions supporting the critical network infrastructure of businesses including: Enterprise Voice Solutions (MS Teams, Cisco Webex), UCaaS, SIP Trunking, Managed SD-WAN, Technology Expense Optimization and Global Managed Connectivity solutions. To learn more about BCM One, visit www.bcmone.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 2023 The Channel Company, LLC. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. All rights reserved. Contact Information: Paula Como Kauth Chief Marketing Officer [email protected] 212-906-7255 SOURCE: BCM One View source version on accesswire.com: New Store Is the Largest Travel Center in the World-for Now SEVIERVILLE, TN / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Buc-ee's, home of the world's cleanest bathrooms, freshest food and friendliest beaver, will unveil its newest travel center in Sevierville, Tennessee, on Monday, June 26, 2023. Doors will open to the public at 6 a.m. ET, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will follow at 11:00 a.m. ET. When it debuts, Buc-ee's Sevierville will be the largest travel center in the world. The store's 74,000-square-foot floor plan will remain the biggest Buc-ee's until that record moves back to Texas, where construction is currently underway on a 75,000-square-foot location in Luling, TX. Located at exit 407 off Interstate 40 and Winfield Dunn Parkway, Buc-ee's Sevierville offers 120 fueling positions outside its store with thousands of snack, meal and drink options for travelers on the go. The new travel center also features a state-of-the-art car wash (coming soon), along with the same award-winning restrooms, cheap gas, quality products and excellent service that have won the hearts, trust and business of millions in the South for 40 years. Buc-ee's favorites, including Texas barbeque, homemade fudge, kolaches, Beaver Nuggets, jerky and fresh pastries, are all available as well. State and local leaders attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony will include Sevierville Mayor Robbie Fox, Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters, EBCI Principal Chief Richard Sneed, and many other partners and officials who helped Buc-ee's bring the project to Sevierville. After the opening of Buc-ee's Sevierville, Buc-ee's will operate 46 stores across Texas and the South. Buc-ee's Sevierville is the second Buc-ee's location in Tennessee, joining Buc-ee's Crossville, which debuted on June 27, 2022. Since beginning its multi-state expansion in 2019, Buc-ee's has opened travel centers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Buc-ee's recently announced the brand is headed West with store groundbreakings in Colorado and Missouri. The first Virginia location was announced in March of this year. "Buc-ee's Sevierville, located at 'The 407,' is nestled in the gateway to Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, Gatlinburg, and of course, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park," said Stan Beard of Buc-ee's. "We are thrilled to join such a beautiful community that has long since been a destination for travelers from around the world." Buc-ee's Sevierville will bring at least 200 new full-time jobs to the area with starting pay well above minimum wage, full benefits, a 100% matching 401k up to 6%, and three weeks of paid vacation. About Buc-ee's Buc-ee's is the world's most-loved travel center. Founded in 1982, Buc-ee's now has 34 stores across Texas, including the world's largest convenience store, as well as 12 locations in other states. Buc-ee's is known for pristine bathrooms, a large amount of fueling positions, friendly service, Buc-ee's apparel and fresh, delicious food. Originally launched and still headquartered in Texas, Buc-ee's has combined traditional quality and modern efficiency to redefine the pit stop for their customers. For more information, visit www.buc-ees.com. Contact Information Rachel Austin Publicist [email protected] SOURCE: Buc-ee's View source version on accesswire.com: VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Gold Terra Resource Corp. (TSX-V:YGT)(Frankfurt:TX0)(OTCQX:YGTFF) ("Gold Terra" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that Midas Minerals Limited (ASX: MM1) ("Midas Minerals") has entered into a definitive option agreement with Gold Terra (the "Definitive Agreement") as previously outlined (see April 4, 2023 press release) to provide, among other things, that Midas Minerals can earn up to an 80% participating interest in two stages for the "Critical Minerals" (pegmatite hosted lithium, tantalum and tin (Li, Ta, Sn), Lithium-cesium-tantalum (LCT), and rare earths or other rare earth deposits) contained within the Quyta-Bell and Eastbelt blocks totaling 536.1 square kilometres on the Company's 100% owned Yellowknife property, as well as an additional 17 recent applications comprising the Quyta-Bell East property covering 182.7km2. These holdings exclude the potential gold belt area on which the Company's current drilling and exploration program is focused on. Chairman and CEO, Gerald Panneton, commented, "We are pleased to have entered into a definitive agreement with Midas Minerals and look forward to their exploration program for lithium and critical minerals. In addition to the prolific abundance of gold in the Yellowknife gold district, our extensive land holdings have excellent potential for critical minerals with the large number of LCT pegmatites that have been recorded in the Yellowknife LCT pegmatite field. As we are currently focused on our high-grade gold deep drilling target to test the extensions of gold zones under the former Con Mine workings, the agreement gives us exposure to the potential for critical minerals discovery at no cost to Gold Terra until a positive bankable feasibility study is completed. This definitive agreement is expected to bring value to both companies and their shareholders." Definitive Option Agreement Summary To earn a 51% participating interest in the Critical Mineral rights, over a period that ends on September 30, 2026, Midas Minerals must pay to the Company the sum of $1.2 million in cash, must deliver to the Company approximately $300,000 worth of common shares of Midas Minerals, must incur exploration expenditures of $5.0 million and must grant Gold Terra a 1.5% gross revenue royalty ("GRR") on the basis of 100% production of Critical Minerals on the Quyta Bell and Quyta-Bell East blocks. Midas has the right to purchase half of the GRR royalty for $5.0 million. Midas Minerals has exclusivity to earn 51% interest in the first 3 years, and up to another 29% interest over the next following 2 years for up to an 80% interest in the Critical Minerals rights as well as an interest in the mineral claims known to host or which may host Critical Minerals over a a portion of the Company's Yellowknife property (YP). Rights to all other minerals remain with Gold Terra. If Midas Minerals does not elect to earn the additional 29% participating interest (after having earned the 51% participating interest), then Midas Minerals must transfer a 2% participating interest to Gold Terra (so that the participating interests between Gold Terra and Midas Minerals will be 51%/49%). To earn the additional 29% interest in the Critical Minerals, Midas Minerals must incur an additional $5.0 million of exploration expenditures and an additional cash payment in the amount of $500,000. rights as well as an interest in the mineral claims known to host or which may host Critical Minerals over a a portion of the Company's Yellowknife property (YP). Rights to all other minerals remain with Gold Terra. If Midas Minerals does not elect to earn the additional 29% participating interest (after having earned the 51% participating interest), then Midas Minerals must transfer a 2% participating interest to Gold Terra (so that the participating interests between Gold Terra and Midas Minerals will be 51%/49%). To earn the additional 29% interest in the Critical Minerals, Midas Minerals must incur an additional $5.0 million of exploration expenditures and an additional cash payment in the amount of $500,000. Gold Terra and Midas Minerals will form a Critical Minerals joint venture upon the exercise by Midas Minerals of the first option (to acquire the 51% participating interest). If Midas Minerals earns the 80% participating interest, the interest of Gold Terra in the Critical Minerals joint venture will be fully carried until the Critical Minerals joint venture has approved a bankable feasibility study for the development of a Critical Minerals project on any part of the Quyta-Bell and Eastbelt Block of Gold Terra's holdings in Yellowknife, NWT. Midas Minerals has commenced exploration at the Yellowknife Lithium Project (YLP) and expects to have two exploration teams mapping and sampling on the project during June. The definitive option agreement is subject to standard conditions precedent which include the receipt of third-party consents and waivers. Project Area The YLP is located East and North in close proximity to Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada and comprises the three adjoining Quyta-Bell, Quyta-Bell East and Eastbelt blocks for a total of 718.8 square kilometres as shown in Figure 1 below. More than 100 LCT pegmatites are known in the region, including historic references to lithium and tantalum occurrences within the YLP tenure. The Eastbelt block is located 4 kilometres east to 30 kilometres northeast of Yellowknife and totalling approximately 173 square kilometres. The Eastbelt block is also subject to an underlying royalty agreement with Osisko Royalties which has an option to purchase up to a 3% NSR. The Quyta-Bell block is located 30 kilometres to 60 kilometres north of Yellowknife and totalling approximately 371 square kilometres. The Quyta-Bell East block, as the name suggests, is located east of Quyta-Bell. The Quyta-Bell tenements cover a larger underexplored area with favourable geology for both gold and lithium. Figure 1 - Location Map Qualified Person Joe Campbell, P. Geo., Senior Technical Advisor for Gold Terra, is a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release. About Gold Terra The Yellowknife Project (YP) encompasses 800 square kilometres of contiguous land immediately north, south and east of the City of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. Through a series of acquisitions, Gold Terra controls one of the six major high-grade gold camps in Canada. Being within 20 kilometres of the City of Yellowknife, the YP project is close to vital infrastructure, including all-season roads, air transportation, service providers, hydro-electric power, and skilled tradespeople. Gold Terra is focusing its exploration activities on the prolific Campbell shear, where 14 million ounces of gold has been produced, and most recently on the Con Mine Option (CMO) property claims immediately south of the past producing Con Mine (1938-2003). The YP and CMO projects lie on the prolific Yellowknife greenstone belt, covering nearly 70 kilometres of strike length along the main mineralized shear system that host the former-producing high-grade Con and Giant gold mines. The Company's exploration programs have successfully identified significant zones of gold mineralization and multiple targets that remain to be tested which reinforces the Company's objective of re-establishing Yellowknife as one of the premier gold mining districts in Canada. About Midas Minerals Midas Minerals is a junior mineral exploration company with a primary focus on lithium and gold. Midas Minerals' Board and management has a strong track record of delivering value for shareholders through mineral discoveries and mine development and growing microcap explorers into successful ASX100-ASX300 companies. The Company has three projects located in Western Australia, as well as the Greenbush Project in Ontario, Canada. Newington Lithium-Gold Project: located at the north end of the Southern Cross and Westonia greenstone belts, prospective for lithium and gold. Exploration in 2022 has outlined anomalous lithium and LCT indicator elements over at least 20km strike. Weebo Gold Project: Located within the Yandal greenstone belt between the Thunderbox and Bronzewing gold mines, prospective for gold and nickel. Drilling in 2022 intercepted significant gold mineralization on several prospects. Challa Gold, Nickel-Copper-PGE Project: A number of significant PGE and gold-copper exploration targets have been defined and drilling is expected to commence in 2023. Greenbush Lithium Project: located proximal to infrastructure, with little outcrop and no historic drilling. A 15 metre by 30 metre spodumene bearing pegmatite outcrop was discovered in 1955 on the northeast shore of a lake and sampled by the Ontario Geological Survey (OGS) in 1965. Visit our website at www.goldterracorp.com. For more information, please contact: Gerald Panneton, Chairman & CEO [email protected] Mara Strazdins, Manager of Investor Relations Phone: 1-778-897-1590 | 604-689-1749 ext 102 [email protected] Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information Certain statements made and information contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation ("forward-looking information"). Generally, this forward-looking information can, but not always, be identified by use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events, conditions or results "will", "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotations thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information regarding the Company's large Yellowknife land holdings having excellent potential for critical minerals exploration in addition to the prolific abundance of gold that the Yellowknife gold district is known for, the deal giving the Company exposure to the potential for critical minerals discovery at no cost to the Company until a positive bankable feasibility study is completed, the deal expected to bring value to both companies and their shareholders, the potential for Midas Minerals to earn a participating interest in the Critical Minerals and mineral claims, Midas Minerals exploration plans at the YLP in June 2023, and the Company's objective of re-establishing Yellowknife as one of the premier gold mining districts in Canada. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as the Company's actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information as a result of the factors discussed in the "Risk Factors" section in the Company's most recent MD&A and annual information form available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that would 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. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on information available to the Company as of the date of this news release. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. All of the forward-looking information contained in this news release is qualified by these cautionary statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. Except as required under applicable securities legislation and regulations applicable to the Company, the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information. SOURCE: Gold Terra Resource Corp. View source version on accesswire.com: NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Tapestry, Inc. Cover of kate spade new york social impact report On Thursday, May 18, in celebration of Mental Health Action Day yesterday, kate spade new york (ksny) launched their 2022 global social impact report. For 30 years, kate spade new york has sought to bring joy to women around the world. The company began investing in women's mental health and empowerment work 10 years ago, starting with On Purpose in Rwanda. Their work in this space has continued to expand since then. ksny set a goal in 2021 to reach 100,000 women and girls with access mental health and empowerment resources by 2025. Explore the report to learn how kate spade new york has served to further fund, innovate and advocate for women's mental health around the globe over the past year. Check out the report in stores the next time you shop with us, or online here: https://www.katespade.com/social-impact/our-mission View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Tapestry, Inc. on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Tapestry, Inc. Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/tapestry-inc Email: [email protected] SOURCE: Tapestry, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: Piasecki To Transform Former Sikorsky Helicopter Plant Into Advanced VTOL R&D Facility; Plans To Hire 400 Workers By 2028 COATESVILLE, PA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Piasecki Aircraft Corporation (PiAC), a pioneer in advanced rotorcraft technology, announced today that it has acquired the former Lockheed Martin Sikorsky Heliplex facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, which previously served as a production and delivery center for Sikorsky's S-76 and S-92 helicopters. Piasecki Aircraft Corporation Ribbon-Cutting in Coatesville, PA From left to right: Mike Stanberry, Mike Hirschberg, Rick Siger, Arthur Kania, Fred Piasecki, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, Dr. Martine Rothblatt, John Piasecki, Greg Piasecki, Val Miftakhov, Michael Tremlett, Bill Moeller The company will transform the 219,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility into an advanced R&D center for next-generation Vertical Take Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), and related enabling technologies. Notably, the company's forthcoming PA-890 helicopter, the world's first zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell rotorcraft, will be built and tested there. The facility - which includes engineering development, aircraft assembly, paint and finishing facilities, and a well-equipped production flight test and delivery center - will open its doors to employees in the fall and is expected to attract about 400 workers by 2028. "This world-class facility will serve as a strong foundation for future growth and will enable us to expand our R&D and production capabilities as we deliver transformational vertical lift technologies to the defense and commercial markets," said John Piasecki, CEO of PiAC. "We chose to expand our development capabilities in the Delaware Valley because of its deep roots within the helicopter industry, its highly-talented workforce, and its robust supplier network. PiAC is committed to creating local jobs by fostering cutting-edge innovation and we're excited to support a community that has long prided itself on delivering aviation excellence." "Chester County is home to some of the most talented manufacturing and tech workforces in the country," said U.S. Representative Chrissy Houlahan from Pennsylvania's 6th congressional district. "Piasecki's expansion into Coatesville is further testament to what many of us have known for years - Chester County is a great place to grow your business. It's incredibly exciting to see a company like Piasecki, a long-time aviation industry innovator, continue their commitment to developing new technologies like the PA-890 hydrogen fuel cell-powered helicopter right here in PA's sixth district. These advancements have the potential to transform vertical lift flight and help eliminate carbon emissions. Piasecki's Coatesville expansion will revitalize the manufacturing facilities which were formerly home to Lockheed Martin/Sikorsky Heliplex. I'm proud to support their vision and will continue to support innovations such as hydrogen fuel cell development through my work in Congress." Piasecki's acquisition and expansion into the Heliplex facility was enabled by the strong support from Pennsylvania Governors Tom Wolf and Josh Shapiro; Chester County Commissioners; the Chester County Economic Development Council; Senator Robert Casey; and Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan. 80 years of innovation - now pioneering the next generation of vertical flight "2023 marks 80 years of PiAC innovation in vertical flight, a legacy that began in 1943 with the PV-2, the second successful helicopter to fly in America, now on display at the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum. Shortly after, PiAC developed the world's first tandem rotor helicopter - a revolutionary design that has been instrumental in countless life-saving missions around the globe since WWII - and which lives on in Boeing's CH-47 Chinook helicopters," said Piasecki. "PiAC is building on this legacy with a truly groundbreaking vertical lift technology portfolio, including advanced digital flight control and flight automation technology, hydrogen fuel cell and hybrid propulsion systems, morphing aerostructures, and more. We work closely with partners in government, academia, and industry to advance these technologies and develop platform and system-level air vehicle integrations as well as conduct flight tests." Major PiAC R&D programs currently being executed: Hydrogen Fuel Cell PA-890 eVTOL - The PA-890 eVTOL aircraft is the first zero-emission hydrogen-powered compound helicopter. The slowed-rotor winged helicopter is intended for use in a variety of missions including Emergency Medical Services (EMS), delivery of high-value On-Demand Logistics (ODL), On-Demand Mobility (ODM) personnel air transport, and many other commercial applications. In addition to zero carbon emissions, the PA-890 eVTOL enables up to a 50% reduction in direct operating cost and reduced noise compared with today's fossil fuel turbine helicopters. PiAC is collaborating with ZeroAvia, a leader in hydrogen-powered fixed wing aviation, to develop and implement its revolutionary High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane (HTPEM) hydrogen fuel cell technology for PA-890 and other VTOL applications. Investment from the U.S. Air Force in the ground testing of a 660kW HTPEM hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system is accelerating the development, certification, and production fielding of the PA-890 to address the needs of the military as well as the $40 billion commercial light helicopter market. The PA-890 eVTOL aircraft is the first zero-emission hydrogen-powered compound helicopter. The slowed-rotor winged helicopter is intended for use in a variety of missions including Emergency Medical Services (EMS), delivery of high-value On-Demand Logistics (ODL), On-Demand Mobility (ODM) personnel air transport, and many other commercial applications. In addition to zero carbon emissions, the PA-890 eVTOL enables up to a 50% reduction in direct operating cost and reduced noise compared with today's fossil fuel turbine helicopters. PiAC is collaborating with ZeroAvia, a leader in hydrogen-powered fixed wing aviation, to develop and implement its revolutionary High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane (HTPEM) hydrogen fuel cell technology for PA-890 and other VTOL applications. Investment from the U.S. Air Force in the ground testing of a 660kW HTPEM hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system is accelerating the development, certification, and production fielding of the PA-890 to address the needs of the military as well as the $40 billion commercial light helicopter market. Aerial Reconfigurable Embedded System (ARES) - ARES is a modular multi-mission tilt duct VTOL vehicle that can be operated unmanned (UAS) or with an optional manned flight module. ARES is designed with a small landing footprint to enable shipboard and expeditionary operations as well as provide embedded multi-mission C4I, ISR, combat, and logistics support to small distributed combat forces operating over extended distances and in complex terrain. Rapidly-reconfigurable Mission Payload Modules deliver mission flexibility that significantly reduces overall logistics footprint and cost. The ARES Demonstration Vehicle was developed in partnership with Lockheed Martin with funding from DARPA. With follow-on funding from the U.S. Air Force and Army, PiAC and Honeywell are developing and integrating a triplex fly-by-wire flight control system to initiate ARES flight testing by the end of this year. ARES is a modular multi-mission tilt duct VTOL vehicle that can be operated unmanned (UAS) or with an optional manned flight module. ARES is designed with a small landing footprint to enable shipboard and expeditionary operations as well as provide embedded multi-mission C4I, ISR, combat, and logistics support to small distributed combat forces operating over extended distances and in complex terrain. Rapidly-reconfigurable Mission Payload Modules deliver mission flexibility that significantly reduces overall logistics footprint and cost. The ARES Demonstration Vehicle was developed in partnership with Lockheed Martin with funding from DARPA. With follow-on funding from the U.S. Air Force and Army, PiAC and Honeywell are developing and integrating a triplex fly-by-wire flight control system to initiate ARES flight testing by the end of this year. Adaptive Digital Automated Pilotage Technology (ADAPT") - ADAPT" is a flight control software package designed to achieve unprecedented improvements in safety/survivability, performance, and affordability for U.S. military and commercial aircraft. ADAPT" exploits the inherent redundancy of control effectors present in advanced VTOL platforms and modified legacy fleet rotorcraft to automatically allocate control commands between effectors to respond to aircraft damage or to optimize the control configuration of the aircraft for increased performance, maneuverability, reduced vibration or fatigue loads, or for a weighted combination of these attributes. About Piasecki Aircraft Corporation (PiAC) PiAC is an award-winning developer of vertical lift aircraft. It specializes in the design, fabrication, and flight testing of experimental rotorcraft and unmanned air vehicles and has developed and flown more than 25 advanced VTOL and UAV aircraft to date. Customers include the U.S. Air Force Research Lab and AFWERX; the U.S. Army Futures Command Aviation and Missile Center and Medical R&D Command; NAVAIR; DARPA; and SOCOM; as well as leading OEMs such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing. PiAC is a recipient of numerous awards including the Presidential National Medal of Technology, Smithsonian Air & Space Achievement Award, and the prestigious Tibbitts Award for small business innovation from the U.S. Department of Defense. PiAC has been a proud member of the Vertical Flight Society for more than 50 years. For more information, please visit piasecki.com. Contact Information: Aaron Endr [email protected] Related Images Piasecki Aircraft Corporation Ribbon-Cutting in Coatesville, PA From left to right: Mike Stanberry, Mike Hirschberg, Rick Siger, Arthur Kania, Fred Piasecki, Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, Dr. Martine Rothblatt, John Piasecki, Greg Piasecki, Val Miftakhov, Michael Tremlett, Bill Moeller Piasecki Opens Heliplex Facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania Piasecki's 219,000 square foot VTOL R&D facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania Piasecki PA-890 Hydrogen-Electric Helicopter Rendering of Piasecki PA-890 Hydrogen-Electric Fuel Cell Helicopter Piasecki ARES Composite rendering of the Piasecki Aerial Reconfigurable Embedded System (ARES) SOURCE: Piasecki Aircraft Corporation View source version on accesswire.com: NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICESOR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Sierra MadreGold and SilverLtd. (TSXV:SM) ("Sierra Madre" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed the second tranche (the "Second Tranche") of its previously announced "best efforts" brokered private placement financing (the "Private Placement") in connection with the Company's acquisition of the La Guitarra silver-gold mine (the "La Guitarra Property") from First Majestic Silver Corp. The Private Placement was led by Beacon Securities Limited and Canaccord Genuity Corp. (together, the "Co-Lead Agents") on behalf of a syndicateof agents includingHaywood Securities Inc. (together with the Co-Lead Agents, the "Agents"). The Second Tranche is comprised of: (i) 1,300,000 common shares of the Company (each, a "Common Share") at a price of $0.65per Common Share for gross proceeds of $845,000; and (ii) 5,123,092 subscription receipts (each, a "Subscription Receipt") at a price of $0.65 per Subscription receipt for gross proceeds of $3,330,010 (the "Subscription Receipt Proceeds"), for aggregate gross proceeds under the Second Tranche of $4,175,010. Together with the first tranche, the Private Placement raised aggregate gross proceed of $10,353,030.55. Each Subscription Receipt shall, without the payment of any additional consideration, automatically convert into one Common Share upon the earlier of: (i) the holder of the Subscription Receipt receiving written notice from the Company of conversion; or (ii) September 15, 2023 (together, the "Escrow Release Conditions"). The Subscription Receipt Proceeds were placed into escrow and will be released to the Company upon satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions. However, in the event that the Company provides written notice to the holders of Subscription Receipts of termination, then all of the issued and outstanding Subscription Receipts will be cancelled and the Escrowed Proceeds will be used to pay holders of Subscription Receipts an amount equal to $0.65 per Subscription Receipt held plus all interest accrued (as described below), less any tax required to be deducted and/or withheld ("Termination"). The Subscription Receipt Proceeds shall accrue interest at a rate of 10% per annum, less any tax required to be deducted and/or withheld, payable only upon Termination. Any interest accrued shall be paid on, and only on, the date of Termination. For greater clarity, no interest shall be payable on any of the Subscription Receipt Proceeds upon satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions and the conversion of the Subscription Receipts into Common Shares. The Company will use the net proceeds of the Private Placement for the development of the La Guitarra Property, advancement of engineering studies, and general working capital purposes. In connection with the Second Tranche, the Agents have received a total cash commission of $50,700, equal to 6% of the gross proceeds raised from the sale of Common Shares under the Second Tranche, and have been issued 78,000 compensation options, equal to 6% of the aggregate number of Common Shares sold pursuant to the Second Tranche (the "Compensation Options"). Each Compensation Option is exercisable into one CommonShare at a price of $0.65 per Compensation Option for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance. Together with the first tranche, the Agents received an aggregate cash commission of $219,667.38, a corporate finance fee of $77,700 (inclusive of applicable taxes), and were issued 444,950 Compensation Options. Certain directors and officers of the Company ("Interested Parties") purchased or acquired direction and control over a total of 1,270,500 subscription receipts under the first tranche and 2,199,700 Subscription Receipts under the Second Tranche. The placement to those persons constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the directors of the Company have determined that the Interested Parties' participation in the Private Placement will be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 in reliance on the exemptions set forth in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report 21 days prior to the closing of the Private Placement as the details of the participation of Interested Parties had not been confirmed at that time. The securities issued in connection with the Second Tranche are subject to a four-month hold period from the date of closing of the Second Tranche, in addition to any other restrictions under applicable law. The Common Shares are expected to resume trading on the TSX Venture Exchange on or around June 5th, 2023. The Private Placement remains subject to certain conditions, including the receipt of final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. 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. The securities being offered have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act, as amended, and application state securities laws. AboutSierra Madre Sierra Madre Gold & Silver (TSX.V: SM) is a precious metals development and exploration company, focused on the restart of the La Guitarra Mine in the Temascaltepec mining district, Mexico, and the exploration and development of its Tepic and La Tigra properties in Nayarit, Mexico. The La Guitarra Mine is a permitted, past-producing underground mine which includes a 500 t/d processing facility that operated until mid-2018. The +2,600 ha Tepic project hosts low-sulphidation epithermal gold and silver mineralization with an existing historic resource. La Tigra, located 148 km north of Tepic, has been mined historically; Sierra Madre's maiden 2022 drill program at the site intercepted shallow mineralization. Sierra Madre's management has played key roles for managing exploration and development of more than 22Moz gold and 600Moz silver in combined reserves and resources. Sierra Madre's team of professionals has collectively raised over $1B for mining companies. On behalfof the board of directors of Sierra MadreGold and Silver Ltd., "Alexander Langer" Alexander Langer President, Chief Executive Officerand Director Contact: [email protected] Cautionary Note Neither the TSX Venture Exchangenor its Regulation Services Provider(as that term is definedin the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacyor accuracy of this news release. This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and statements 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. Forward-looking statements and forward- looking information in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the use of proceeds of the Private Placement, and the receipt of final regulatory approval for the Private Placement. Risks and uncertainties may cause actualresults 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 differentfrom any futureresults, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information and forward- looking statements containedin this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except as may be required in accordance with applicable securities laws. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking information and statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice regarding forward-looking information and statements. SOURCE: Sierra Madre Gold and Silver Ltd. View source version on accesswire.com: CAMDEN, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / This week, Subaru of America, Inc. donated dozens of vehicles to the North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) for their three-day rescue workshop session and competition, benefiting the training of emergency responders and offering a second life to pre-production cars that would have otherwise been crushed. NAVRA provides education and training for firefighters, first responders, paramedics, nurses, physicians, manufacturers, and other related groups. The event took place from May 24th to 26th at Subaru Park in Chester, PA, and featured a two-day workshop on skills and tactics, as well as a mini rescue challenge. The event marked the first time that the training has taken place in the Northeast, providing a unique opportunity for local first responders to get involved and learn skills critical to patient rescue in vehicle accidents. "Our mission is to reduce the number of motor-vehicle-related injuries and deaths by enhancing the skills and knowledge of expertly trained emergency professionals, and partners like Subaru are essential to this progress," said John-Paul Shirley, Chester Bureau of Fire Battalion Chief. "We normally only have the opportunity to train on older vehicles from junkyards, and it's important that we are familiar with newer vehicles with strong construction to help us better adapt lifesaving procedures and skills when dealing with accidents and emergency scenarios." First responders from Chester, PA, Scranton, PA, Philadelphia, and Delaware attended the event which included live rescue scenarios with real "victims" using lifesaving tools including saws, cutters, spreaders, pneumatic chisels and more. "We are so excited to be a part of this amazing event with NAVRA in Chester. This event marked the 145th vehicle that Subaru has donated to emergency rescue organizations across the country over the last few years to help with their training events," said Shira Haaz, Corporate Responsibility Manager at Subaru of America, Inc. "Not only are we helping to provide training that will allow first responders to improve lifesaving rescues across the region, but this donation also helps Subaru find new life for cars that can't be sold and would otherwise go unused." In addition to the 40 trainees from six fire departments, members of the public and local community stopped by Subaru Park to view the trainings and competition and learn about how firefighters and emergency workers practice the lifesaving skills they use in their incredibly important jobs. VIDEO: B-roll of the Subaru / NAVRA event is available for download here. About Subaru of America, Inc. Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Camden, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 630 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. is the only U.S. automobile manufacturing plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. SOA is guided by the Subaru Love Promise, which is the company's vision to show love and respect to everyone, and to support its communities and customers nationwide. Over the past 20 years, SOA and the SOA Foundation have donated more than $300 million to causes the Subaru family cares about, and its employees have logged nearly 88,000 volunteer hours. As a company, Subaru believes it is important to do its part in making a positive impact in the world because it is the right thing to do. For additional information visit media.subaru.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. About NAVRA Founded in 2008, the North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) is a non-profit organization committed to preparing today's rescuers for tomorrow. To accomplish this, we focus on two key elements: the general population (that's you!) and all emergency medical, fire service, and law enforcement professionals. For more information on North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) visit www.navraus.org. Diane Anton Corporate Communications Manager (856) 488-5093 [email protected] Adam Leiter Corporate Communications Specialist (856) 488-8668 [email protected] Subaru of America, Inc. donated dozens of pre-production vehicles to the North American Vehicle Rescue Association (NAVRA) training event, May 24-26, 2023, in Chester, PA. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Subaru of America on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Subaru of America Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/subaru-america Email: [email protected] SOURCE: Subaru of America View source version on accesswire.com: VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / The Power Play by The Market Herald has announced the release of a new interview with Homerun Resources discussing their latest news. The Power Play by The Market Herald provides investors with a quick snapshot of what they need to know about the company's latest press release through exclusive insights and interviews with company executives. Homerun Resources Inc. Appoints New Country Manager for Brazil Homerun Resources Inc. is pleased to announce the key appointment of Mr. Antonio Vitor to the newly created role of Country Manager, Brazil. For the full interview with Brian Leeners and to learn about Homerun Resources, click here. Interviews for The Power Play by The Market Herald are released daily. To learn more about the companies featured in The Power Play or to explore our other interviews visit The Power Play by The Market Herald. About The Market Herald The Market Herald Canada is the leading source of authoritative breaking stock market news for self-directed investors. Our team of Canadian markets reporters, editors and technologists covers the entire listed company universe in Canada. We cover over 3,985 businesses, their people, their investors, and their customers. We write the stories that move the Canadian capital markets. DISCLAIMER: Report Card Canada Media Ltd. ("Report Card") is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Market Herald Limited, an Australian company ("Market Herald"). Report Card is not an advisory service, and does not offer, buy, sell, or provide any other rating, analysis or opinion on the securities we discuss. We are retained and compensated by the companies that we provide information on to assist them with making information available to the public. All information available on themarketherald.ca and/or this press release should be considered as commercial advertisement and not an endorsement, offer or recommendation to buy or sell securities. Report Card is not registered with any financial or securities regulatory authority in any province or territory of Canada, will not be performing any registerable activity as defined by the applicable regulatory bodies and do not provide nor claim to provide investment advice or recommendations to any visitor of this site or readers of any content on or originating from themarketherald.ca. Market Herald and/or its affiliates and/or their respective officers, directors or employees may from time to time acquire, hold or sell securities and/or commodities and/or commodity futures contracts in certain underlying companies mentioned in this site and which may also be clients of Market Herald's affiliates. In such instances, Market Herald and/or its affiliates and/or their respective officers, directors or employees will use all reasonable efforts to avoid engaging in activities that would lead to conflicts of interest and Market Herald and/or its affiliates will use all reasonable efforts to comply with conflicts of interest disclosures and regulations to minimize any conflict. All the information on this document and/or the website - themarketherald.ca - is published in good faith and for general information purpose only. Report Card does not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability, and accuracy of this information. Any action you take upon the information you find on this document and/or website (themarketherald.ca) is strictly at your own risk. Report Card will not be liable for any losses and/or damages in connection with the use of our website. From our website, you can visit other websites by following hyperlinks to such external sites. While we strive to provide only quality links to useful and ethical websites, we have no control over the content and nature of these sites. These links to other websites do not imply a recommendation for all the content found on these sites. Site owners and content may change without notice and may occur before we have the opportunity to remove a link which may have gone 'bad'. Please be also aware that when you leave our website, other sites may have different privacy policies and terms which are beyond our control. Please be sure to check the Privacy Policies of these sites as well as their "Terms of Service" before engaging in any business or uploading any information. CONTACT: The Market Herald [email protected] themarketherald.ca SOURCE: The Market Herald View source version on accesswire.com: NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / The Aerodynamic Research Center at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) is bringing hypersonic travel to the United States. What would take hours of travel time will be reduced to several miles per second, and to develop these hypersonic capabilities, the team has been using Cadence tools. UTA's Aerodynamic Research Center's project was inaugurated in 2015 and is now fully operational. One of the facility's most complex components is the hypersonic diffuser. Cadence's Fidelity Pointwise was a key player in designing the component, and at UTA it was the first time that such a component was designed using high-fidelity simulation. UTA's relationship with Pointwise goes further back, however, as the founders of Pointwise were alumni of UTA. Today, Fidelity Pointwise is supporting UTA's students very well, thanks to its online learning platform that helps smoothen the learning curve. Fidelity Pointwise's control on the mesh generation has also been a big help, as it assures that a good size of mesh can be gathered with a decent turnaround time. Frank Lu, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering, said, "I have to say that there doesn't appear to be any other product in the market that does such a fantastic job as Cadence's Fidelity Pointwise." "Designed with Cadence" is a series of videos that showcases creative products and technologies that are accelerating industry innovation using Cadence tools and solutions. Learn more about how UTA is bringing hypersonic travel with Fidelity Pointwise. For more Designed with Cadence videos, check out the Cadence website and YouTube channel. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Cadence Design Systems on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Cadence Design Systems Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cadence-design-systems Email: [email protected] SOURCE: Cadence Design Systems View source version on accesswire.com: AUSTIN, TX / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Xtra Energy Corp. (OTC PINK:XTPT) is pleased to announce the successful completion of a 200-acre expansion to secure full ownership rights to the historic antimony-producing UBet Mine and its extensive workings, as well as a portion of the Hoyt Mine. The UBet Mine is approximately 1.5 miles north of the Vandenburg Group situated within our American Antimony #26 Lode claim. This brings our total ownership rights to fifteen (15) historically documented antimony mines over 1632 acres in the Bernice Mining District of Churchill County, Nevada. Chairman of Xtra Energy Corp., Mac J. Shahsavar, P. Eng., made the following statement on the expansion: "With this expansion, we are approaching 100% completion and consolidation of the entire antimony-producing Bernice Mining District. It is quite rare to have district control under a single entity, with two or three mining corporations generally competing for the top status in a district, and we are on the brink of achieving this. To help our investors better understand what this latest expansion could indicate, our team has created a video showing the satellite imagery studies conducted by our Head of Exploration, Steven Cyros, that led to this completed expansion." LINK TO VIDEO: CLICK HERE Contact & Learn More: Xtra Energy Corporation Phone: 512-412-3636 Corporate Website: https://americanantimony.com/ Corporate Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xtra-energy-corp/ Corporate Twitter: https://twitter.com/xtra_corp Corporate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtraenergycorp/ About Xtra Energy Corp. Xtra Energy Corp. is an antimony exploration company focused on developing its flagship project "American Antimony", approximately 31 miles northeast of Eastgate, Nevada. Xtra Energy Corp. holds a 100% ownership in a 79 lode claim, 1632 acre antimony project surrounding the historically documented Antimony King Mine and covering all other documented antimony producers of the Bernice Mining District. The Company is seeking to develop this expanding portfolio of antimony-rich assets to become a major supplier of antimony based products. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events, including our ability to raise capital, or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause materially different results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future. For a discussion of these risks and uncertainties, please see our filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc. Our public filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc are available from commercial document retrieval services and at the website maintained by the OTC Markets at https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/XTPT/disclosure. SOURCE: Xtra Energy Corp. View source version on accesswire.com: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has held a visiting meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Headquarters in Odesa. "A field meeting of the Staff Headquarters in Odesa. We heard Commander Eduard Moskaliov on the operational situation in his area of responsibility. A separate report by Oleksiy Neyizhpapa: on protection of coastal infrastructure, functioning of the grain corridor and other important issues. Reports of the General Staff and the Ministry of Defense were heard along with reports of the commanders," he wrote on the Telegram channel on Wednesday. "Our forces managed to stabilize the situation on the Khortytsia," General Oleksandr Syrsky said. There were important reports by Kyrylo Budanov and Vasyl Maliuk on measures within their competence. There are no details here," Zelenskyy also said. DALI, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The 2023 Erhai Forum on Global Ecological Civilization Construction successfully concluded on May 28 in Dali, China. With the theme "Man and Nature in Harmony, Towards a Path to Modernization", the event gathered nearly 400 Chinese and foreign experts, scholars, and guests from government bodies, international organizations, embassies and consulates in China, educational institutions, enterprises, and related organizations. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005535/en/ Launching ceremony of Erhai Initiative, photographed on May 28. (Graphic: Secretariat of Erhai Forum) Participants at the forum acknowledged the paramount importance and fundamental role of harmony between man and nature for Chinese-style modernization. It embodies the wisdom of Chinese civilization in nurturing a sustainable relationship between humans and the environment. Guided by the principles of sustainable development, China is actively fostering the development of a beautiful China and ecological civilization through extensive international exchanges and cooperation. China is eager to collaborate with nations worldwide in building a shared community, with a steadfast commitment to achieving "harmony between man and nature" by 2050. During the keynote speech session, esteemed domestic and foreign guests delivered notable addresses. Sergio Cabrera, Colombian Ambassador to China, emphasized the rich biodiversity shared by Colombia and China and expressed the intention to enhance explorations and cooperation in biodiversity conservation. Ambassador Cabrera also invited all countries to join the Like-Minded Megadiverse Countries (LMMC) promoted by the Colombian government. As part of the efforts to advance global ecological civilization construction and create a clean and beautiful world, the Erhai Forum unveiled the Erhai Initiative, aiming to collectively promote the harmony between man and nature. Emphasizing that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets, it calls for the coordinated and systematic management of mountains, rivers, forests, fields, lakes, grass and sand. Additionally, the Erhai Initiative seeks to promote the green transformation of development methods and lifestyles while inviting global collaboration in the pursuit of a sustainable path to global ecological civilization development. As a carbon-neutral event, the forum also held the "Net Zero Emissions" launching ceremony. The first edition of the forum took place in Dali, China in October 2021, preceding the COP 15, and was recognized as one of the "important legacies and major achievements of COP15" by the COP15 Executive Committee Office of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005535/en/ Shelly Wang [email protected] Source: Erhai Forum on Global Ecological Civilization Construction NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Aviation Capital Group LLC (ACG), a premier global full-service aircraft lessor, today announced that Sylvia Li has joined the company as Vice President of Aircraft Trading (AT), based out of ACGs Dublin office, in Ireland. Li brings a wealth of experience to ACG and will play a crucial leadership role within the AT function, collaborating with the Senior Vice President and Head of AT to design and implement strategic portfolio management initiatives and seize new investment opportunities. Prior to joining ACG, Li served as the Senior Vice President of AT at BOC Aviation, based in its London office. Her extensive background in various roles over the past decade equipped her with valuable expertise and insights she brings to her new position at ACG. Li holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a major in finance and accounting from the University of Melbourne in Australia. We are thrilled to welcome Sylvia to the aircraft trading team, said Rob Downes, Senior Vice President and Head of Aircraft Trading at Aviation Capital Group. Sylvias exceptional experience from her tenure at BOC Aviation will greatly contribute to our ongoing efforts to develop our aircraft trading business as a core strategic pillar for ACG. Originally from Beijing and a native Mandarin speaker, Li brings a diverse perspective to her new role. ACG has a great industry reputation, and Im looking forward to leveraging my past experiences to take it to even greater heights in the future, said Li. To learn about open positions at ACG, visit: https://www.aviationcapitalgroup.com/careers/. About Aviation Capital Group: Aviation Capital Group is one of the worlds premier full-service aircraft asset managers with approximately 480 owned, managed and committed aircraft as of March 31, 2023 leased to roughly 95 airlines in approximately 45 countries. It was founded in 1989 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tokyo Century Corporation. Follow ACG on LinkedIn, and for more information, visit www.aviationcapitalgroup.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531006006/en/ Media Relations: Elizabeth Stevens, [email protected] Investor Relations: Matthew Novell, [email protected] Source: Aviation Capital Group LLC CRETE, Greece--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Recently, the documentary The Road Never Ends has been screened at the 76th Cannes Film Festival. Through abundant and precious videos as well as the record and narration of the living state of the people involved, this documentary reveals the unhealed wounds left on people in MENA over the past two decades. During the Cannes Film Festival, the booth of The Road Never Ends in the international pavilion attracted filmmakers from all over the world every day, and they stopped to ask questions and received documentary related materials. At the forum held by the International Village, filmmakers from France, Italy, Turkey, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, etc. conducted in-depth discussions about the documentary Endless Road. It is generally thought that this is a very valuable documentary and the director is very courageous. Nick yivarii, director of Italian-Middle East Cooperation Department expressed the willingness to introduce the documentary to a wider audience in Europe and the Middle East. The screening tickets of The Road Never Ends were sold out in a short time, and lots of audiences asked for additional screening. On the day of the screening, despite heavy rain in Cannes, it didn't stop audiences' enthusiasm, and all seats of the cinema are occupied. With the progress of the film, audiences were shocked by one scene after another, such as the brutality of war, social unrest and suffering of people. Interviewees face up to the past and tell their own story to the people. During movie watching, every audience was very focused, with occasional sobs. At the end of the documentary, some audiences walk out of the cinema with tears in their eyes. Ilianna, a cultural ministry official in Greece, said that the documentary makes me see the tears of the MENA, and lets us reflect on the root causes of all these tragedies. Documentary The Road Never Ends is selected by several programmers of many film festivals like Red Sea International Film Festival. Meanwhile, Al Jazeera, National Geographic Channel, NGCA, and other major television stations express their willingness to broadcast the documentary. The distributor old story film sales said, it is scheduled to be released in Greece, Iraq and other nations this year. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230529005196/en/ Claudia Email: [email protected] Website: https://chrysea.gr Telephone:+30 694 8541505 Source: Old Story Film Sales ST. PAUL, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Scott Kirkland, Ecolab Inc. chief financial officer, will address financial analysts at the Deutsche Bank Global Industrials, Materials & Building Products Conference on Wednesday, June 7. Ecolab will offer a webcast of Mr. Kirklands presentation. Details for the webcast are as follows: TIME: 9:20 a.m. Eastern Time DATE: Wednesday, June 7 DURATION: Approximately 30 minutes LOCATION: www.ecolab.com/investor ARCHIVE: A replay of the webcast will be available through July 1, 2023. To access the webcast, visit the News and Events section of Ecolabs Investor website at www.ecolab.com/investor and click on the webcast details. About Ecolab A trusted partner for millions of customers, Ecolab (NYSE: ECL) is a global sustainability leader offering water, hygiene and infection prevention solutions and services that protect people and the resources vital to life. Building on a century of innovation, Ecolab has annual sales of $14 billion, employs more than 47,000 associates and operates in more than 170 countries around the world. The company delivers comprehensive science-based solutions, data-driven insights and world-class service to advance food safety, maintain clean and safe environments, and optimize water and energy use. Ecolabs innovative solutions improve operational efficiencies and sustainability for customers in the food, healthcare, life sciences, hospitality and industrial markets. www.ecolab.com Follow us on LinkedIn @Ecolab, Twitter @Ecolab, Instagram @Ecolab_Inc and Facebook @Ecolab. (ECL-C) View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005954/en/ Investor Contacts: Andrew Hedberg +1 651 250 2185 Cairn Clark +1 651 250 2291 Source: Ecolab Inc. CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Equity Residential (NYSE: EQR) today announced that it has raised its guidance ranges for its same store revenue and net operating income (NOI) as well as its Earnings Per Share (EPS), Funds from Operations (FFO) per share and Normalized FFO per share. In connection with the Companys planned participation in the upcoming Nareit REITweek Conference, the Company has also posted a new Investor Update to its website, www.equityapartments.com. We are pleased to raise our outlook for full year same store revenue, NOI and Normalized FFO per share. This increase reflects continued strong demand across our markets, particularly New York, and lower than previously anticipated delinquency in Southern California. We are also benefiting from limited new apartment supply in most of our markets as well as the high prices and low availability of single family housing in these markets, said Mark J. Parrell, Equity Residentials President and CEO. Full Year 2023 Guidance Revised Previous Same Store (includes Residential and Non-Residential): Physical Occupancy 96.0% 96.2% Revenue change 5.5% to 6.25% 4.5% to 6.0% Expense change No Change 4.0% to 5.0% NOI change 6.0% to 7.0% 4.75% to 6.25% EPS $2.02 to $2.12 $1.99 to $2.09 FFO per share $3.69 to $3.79 $3.66 to $3.76 Normalized FFO per share $3.73 to $3.83 $3.70 to $3.80 All per share results are reported as available to common shares/units on a diluted basis. The changes in the full year 2023 EPS, FFO per share and Normalized FFO per share guidance ranges are due primarily to: Positive/(Negative) Impact Revised Full Year 2023 vs Previous Full Year 2023 Same store NOI $ 0.04 Other items (0.01 ) Net: $ 0.03 The Company has a glossary of defined terms and related reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures on pages 3 and 4 of this release. About Equity Residential Equity Residential is committed to creating communities where people thrive. The Company, a member of the S&P 500, is focused on the acquisition, development and management of residential properties located in and around dynamic cities that attract affluent long-term renters. Equity Residential owns or has investments in 303 properties consisting of 79,900 apartment units, with an established presence in Boston, New York, Washington, D.C., Seattle, San Francisco and Southern California, and an expanding presence in Denver, Atlanta, Dallas/Ft. Worth and Austin. For more information on Equity Residential, please visit our website at www.equityapartments.com. Forward-Looking Statements In addition to historical information, this press release contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions made by management. While Equity Residentials management believes the assumptions underlying its forward-looking statements are reasonable, such information is inherently subject to uncertainties and may involve certain risks, including, without limitation, changes in general market conditions, including the rate of job growth and cost of labor and construction material, the level of new multifamily construction and development, government regulations (such as eviction moratoriums) and competition. These and other risks and uncertainties are described under the heading Risk Factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and available on our website, www.equityapartments.com. Many of these uncertainties and risks are difficult to predict and beyond managements control. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, results or events. Equity Residential assumes no obligation to update or supplement forward-looking statements that become untrue because of subsequent events. Terms and Definitions: Earnings Per Share ("EPS") Net income per share calculated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP). Expected EPS is calculated on a basis consistent with actual EPS. Due to the uncertain timing and extent of property dispositions and the resulting gains/losses on sales, actual EPS could differ materially from expected EPS. FFO and Normalized FFO: Funds From Operations (FFO) The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (Nareit) defines FFO (December 2018 White Paper) as net income (computed in accordance with GAAP), excluding gains or losses from sales and impairment write-downs of depreciable real estate and land when connected to the main business of a REIT, impairment write-downs of investments in entities when the impairment is directly attributable to decreases in the value of depreciable real estate held by the entity and depreciation and amortization related to real estate. Adjustments for partially owned consolidated and unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures are calculated to reflect FFO on the same basis. Expected FFO per share is calculated on a basis consistent with actual FFO per share and is considered an appropriate supplemental measure of expected operating performance when compared to expected EPS. The Company believes that FFO and FFO available to Common Shares and Units are helpful to investors as supplemental measures of the operating performance of a real estate company, because they are recognized measures of performance by the real estate industry and by excluding gains or losses from sales and impairment write-downs of depreciable real estate and excluding depreciation related to real estate (which can vary among owners of identical assets in similar condition based on historical cost accounting and useful life estimates), FFO and FFO available to Common Shares and Units can help compare the operating performance of a companys real estate between periods or as compared to different companies. Normalized Funds From Operations ("Normalized FFO") Normalized FFO begins with FFO and excludes: the impact of any expenses relating to non-operating real estate asset impairment; pursuit cost write-offs; gains and losses from early debt extinguishment and preferred share redemptions; gains and losses from non-operating assets; and other miscellaneous items. Expected Normalized FFO per share is calculated on a basis consistent with actual Normalized FFO per share and is considered an appropriate supplemental measure of expected operating performance when compared to expected EPS. The Company believes that Normalized FFO and Normalized FFO available to Common Shares and Units are helpful to investors as supplemental measures of the operating performance of a real estate company because they allow investors to compare the Company's operating performance to its performance in prior reporting periods and to the operating performance of other real estate companies without the effect of items that by their nature are not comparable from period to period and tend to obscure the Company's actual operating results. FFO, FFO available to Common Shares and Units, Normalized FFO and Normalized FFO available to Common Shares and Units do not represent net income, net income available to Common Shares or net cash flows from operating activities in accordance with GAAP. Therefore, FFO, FFO available to Common Shares and Units, Normalized FFO and Normalized FFO available to Common Shares and Units should not be exclusively considered as alternatives to net income, net income available to Common Shares or net cash flows from operating activities as determined by GAAP or as a measure of liquidity. The Company's calculation of FFO, FFO available to Common Shares and Units, Normalized FFO and Normalized FFO available to Common Shares and Units may differ from other real estate companies due to, among other items, variations in cost capitalization policies for capital expenditures and, accordingly, may not be comparable to such other real estate companies. FFO available to Common Shares and Units and Normalized FFO available to Common Shares and Units are calculated on a basis consistent with net income available to Common Shares and reflects adjustments to net income for preferred distributions and premiums on redemption of preferred shares in accordance with GAAP. The equity positions of various individuals and entities that contributed their properties to the Operating Partnership in exchange for OP Units are collectively referred to as the "Noncontrolling Interests Operating Partnership". Subject to certain restrictions, the Noncontrolling Interests Operating Partnership may exchange their OP Units for Common Shares on a one-for-one basis. The following table presents a reconciliation of expected EPS to expected FFO per share and expected Normalized FFO per share. Expected 2023 Per Share EPS Diluted $2.02 to $2.12 Depreciation expense 2.17 Net (gain) loss on sales (0.50) Impairment operating real estate assets FFO per share Diluted 3.69 to 3.79 Impairment non-operating real estate assets Write-off of pursuit costs 0.01 Debt extinguishment and preferred share redemption (gains) losses Non-operating asset (gains) losses 0.01 Other miscellaneous items 0.02 Normalized FFO per share Diluted $3.73 to $3.83 Net Operating Income (NOI) NOI is the Companys primary financial measure for evaluating each of its apartment properties. NOI is defined as rental income less direct property operating expenses (including real estate taxes and insurance). The Company believes that NOI is helpful to investors as a supplemental measure of its operating performance because it is a direct measure of the actual operating results of the Company's apartment properties. NOI does not include an allocation of property management expenses either in the current or comparable periods. Rental income for all leases and operating expense for ground leases (for both same store and non-same store properties) are reflected on a straight-line basis in accordance with GAAP for the current and comparable periods. Non-Residential Consists of revenues and expenses from retail and public parking garage operations. Non-Same Store Properties For annual comparisons, primarily includes all properties acquired during 2022 and 2023, plus any properties in lease-up and not stabilized as of January 1, 2022. Physical Occupancy The weighted average occupied apartment units for the reporting period divided by the average of total apartment units available for rent for the reporting period. Residential Consists of multifamily apartment revenues and expenses. Same Store Properties For annual comparisons, primarily includes all properties acquired or completed that are stabilized prior to January 1, 2022, less properties subsequently sold. Properties are included in Same Store when they are stabilized for all of the current and comparable periods presented. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005640/en/ Marty McKenna (312) 928-1901 [email protected] Source: Equity Residential Takes the role of senior vice president, enterprise practice leader, specialized lending MIAMI LAKES, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- BankUnited Inc. (NYSE: BKU) has named experienced healthcare banker Craig Evans as senior vice president, enterprise practice leader, healthcare in the corporate banking division. An industry veteran with more than 25 years of experience, Evans will join BankUnited on June 1, 2023, from Citibank in New York City, where he served as senior healthcare banker. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005858/en/ Craig Evans has joined BankUnited as senior vice president, enterprise practice leader, healthcare in the corporate banking division. (Photo: Business Wire) Craig has extensive knowledge of partnering with healthcare services platforms across the country, said Thomas M. Cornish, BankUnited chief operating officer. We are pleased to welcome him to BankUnited to support our expanding healthcare practice. Craigs broad network and deep experience will create opportunities and customized financial solutions to serve one of the largest sectors of the nations economy. Related experience in the industry includes various leadership roles with Merrill Lynch Commercial Finance Group and later Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Evans holds a masters degree in business administration from the University of North Florida and an undergraduate degree from Florida State University. Evans will be located at BankUniteds New York office, 450 Park Avenue. For more information visit www.BankUnited.com. About BankUnited, N.A. BankUnited, Inc., with total assets of $37.2 billion at March 31, 2023, is the bank holding company of BankUnited, N.A., a national bank headquartered in Miami Lakes, Florida that provides a full range of banking and related services to individual and corporate customers through banking centers located in the state of Florida, New York metropolitan area and Dallas, Texas, and a comprehensive suite of wholesale products to customers through an Atlanta office focused in the Southeast region. BankUnited also offers certain commercial lending and deposit products through national platforms. For additional information, call (877) 779-2265 or visit www.BankUnited.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005858/en/ Donna Crump-Butler, (305) 231-6707 [email protected] Savannah Whaley, (954) 776-1999, x225 [email protected] Source: BankUnited Inc. Boomis award-winning integration platform as a service (iPaaS) was chosen for its global implementation track record and ability to seamlessly connect various platforms TOKYO & CHESTERBROOK, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Boomi, the intelligent connectivity and automation leader, today announced that JGC Holdings Corporation (JGC), a global engineering company, has selected the Boomi platform to modernize its IT infrastructure and support the companys digital transformation goals. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005087/en/ Global Engineering Company JGC Holdings Selects Boomi To Modernize Its Business Systems (Graphic: Business Wire) Based in Yokohama, Japan, JGC operates businesses across numerous regions worldwide, requiring a hub-and-spoke IT architecture to seamlessly connect its various applications and platforms. Given the complexity of developing a new system, JGC took a phased approach to combine its software as a service (SaaS) platforms, such as Coupa and ServiceNow. The scale of the project, which required connecting numerous interfaces, systems, and platforms, resulted in escalated costs. JGC approached Nomura Research Institute (NRI) to recommend a reputable vendor with a strong track record and experience in connecting multiple platforms and simplifying complex projects. Boomi was among four vendors in the selection process and has vast experience in solving customers challenges across their digital transformation journey, said Mr. Atsuo Honiden, Group Manager, Procurement DX Group, Digital Project Delivery Department, JGC. Boomi was the best fit, both in terms of technology and cost effectiveness. In addition, Boomis solution matched our vision to gradually integrate a number of systems to achieve a hub-and-spoke architecture. Boomi has a proven track record in global deployments and provided a cost-effective solution for JGC Corporations procurement project, said Mr. Akira Matsumoto, Senior Corporate Managing Director, Division Manager, DX Platform Division, Nomura Research Institute, Ltd. Boomi's various connectors have enabled us to efficiently implement a hub-and-spoke architecture, connecting multiple systems in phases. Boomi is the largest cloud-native independent integration company in the world with the largest customer base among integration platform vendors. We connect everyone to everything, and pride ourselves on connecting more than 200,000 unique endpoints, helping our customers, like JGC, to innovate their business quickly and efficiently, said Kazunori Hori, Director, Japan at Boomi. Boomi touts a growing community of more than 100,000 members and one of the largest arrays of global systems integrators (GSIs) in the iPaaS space. The company boasts a worldwide network of approximately 800 partners, including Accenture, Deloitte, SAP, and Snowflake; and works with the largest hyperscaler cloud service providers, including Amazon Web Services, Google, and Microsoft, among others. Included on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 and Inc. 5000 lists as one of Americas fastest growing technology companies, Boomi has won three International Stevie Awards, for Company of the Year (two years in a row) and Product Innovation; the Gold Globee Award in the Platform as a Service (PaaS) category; the Merit Award for Technology in the Cloud Services category; the Stratus Award as a Global Leader in Cloud Computing 2022, and received the prestigious 5-star rating in the CRN Partner Program Guide for two consecutive years. Additional Resources About Boomi Boomi aims to make the world a better place by connecting everyone to everything, anywhere. The pioneer of cloud-based integration platform as a service (iPaaS), and now a category-leading, global software as a service (SaaS) company, Boomi touts the largest customer base among integration platform vendors and a worldwide network of approximately 800 partners including Accenture, Capgemini, Deloitte, SAP, and Snowflake. Global organizations turn to Boomis award-winning platform to discover, manage, and orchestrate data, while connecting applications, processes, and people for better, faster outcomes. For more information, visit http://www.boomi.com. 2023 Boomi, LP. Boomi, the B logo, and Boomiverse are trademarks of Boomi, LP or its subsidiaries or affiliates. All rights reserved. Other names or marks may be the trademarks of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005087/en/ Media: Jasmine Ee Head of Media & Analyst Relations, APJ [email protected] Source: Boomi Dealership Profits Are Dropping but Remain More Than Triple Pre-Pandemic Levels. Blue Sky Values Are Also Falling but Remain an Estimated 2.5x Higher Than In 2019. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Haig Partners LLC released its closely followed Haig Report for Q1 2023, which tracks trends in auto retail and their impact on dealership values. Pre-tax profits at dealerships owned by publicly traded auto retailers have begun to trend downward. The average adjusted pre-tax profit per dealership was $6.2M during the past twelve-month period ended 3/31/2023, down 5% from the full year 2022. Average pre-tax profits in Q1 2023 fell 22% from Q1 2022, one of the best-performing quarters ever for the publicly traded groups. Despite this decline, the average estimated pre-tax profit per publicly owned dealership remained over 3.0x higher than 2019 levels. Buy-sell activity decreased 31% in Q1 2023 compared to Q1 2022. An estimated 82 dealerships were acquired in the first quarter of this year, down from 118 in the same period in 2022. Despite a slow start to the year, we believe buy-sell activity will pick up for the remainder of 2023 based on both our pipeline of transactions and the lofty 2025 revenue goals set by the public retailers. Dealers have plenty of cash and are still making strong profits. Many groups are looking to reinvest their profits by acquiring additional dealerships, as they believe larger groups will have advantages over smaller ones in the future. Blue sky values for dealerships fell an estimated 3% from the end of 2022 to the end of Q1 2023. Buyers have been expecting a decline in profits when formulating their offers for dealerships. The decline we are seeing is in line with those expectations, so the decline in blue sky values has been minimal since 2022. Highlights from the Q1 2023 Haig Report include: The average adjusted pre-tax profit per dealership was $6.2M during the past twelve-month period ended 3/31/2023, down just 5% from the full year 2022 but still more than triple the levels seen in 2019. Dealership profits in Q1 2023 decreased 22% from their peak in Q1 2022 but are still 230% higher than in 2019. Estimated blue sky values remain robust, down just 3% from the record levels seen at year-end 2022. Buyers have already been pricing in a decline in earnings. Private buyers are by far the most active, as they are looking to reinvest their record profits. They are paying record-high values for a number of franchises in 2023. Public companies remain acquisitive but have broadened their focus, spending more money on stock buybacks and international transactions while continuing their hunt for US dealerships. Top 150 dealership groups hold 23% of total US dealerships, a 21% increase since 2014. Alan Haig, President of Haig Partners, shared, Although dealership buy-sell activity slowed in Q1, we are receiving many inbound requests from dealers looking to grow. Their balance sheets are loaded with cash and hold very little debt. They have confidence that the long-term outlook for automotive retail is positive. This confidence is showing up in record-high values being paid for stores. Last year, we had the honor of serving as the exclusive advisor on the sale of John Elways Crown Toyota in California, which attracted the second-highest value ever paid for a Toyota dealership, to our knowledge. Earlier this year, we were proud to represent Jack and Robin Salzman in the sale of their CDJR stores, one of which sold for a record-high price for that franchise, according to Stellantis. We expect to set another record for a store that is on track to close soon for the highest price ever paid for a single dealership. Q1 2023 Buy-Sell Trend Highlights Blue sky values remain elevated, but a downward trend has begun. Given the massive increase in pre-tax profits, we have seen record-high prices set for dealerships sold in 2022 and 2023. Even so, valuations are challenging today. One of the biggest challenges may be getting buyers and sellers to agree on pricing. Buyers will want to value dealerships based on future earnings. Sellers will want to value stores based on historical earnings. With challenges such as these, it is critical for owners of dealerships to run a competitive process to surface the Most Motivated Buyer. Given the massive increase in pre-tax profits, we have seen record-high prices set for dealerships sold in 2022 and 2023. Even so, valuations are challenging today. One of the biggest challenges may be getting buyers and sellers to agree on pricing. Buyers will want to value dealerships based on future earnings. Sellers will want to value stores based on historical earnings. With challenges such as these, it is critical for owners of dealerships to run a competitive process to surface the Most Motivated Buyer. Outlook for future dealership profits. While the future is anyones guess, we can tell from the prices that buyers are paying that they believe dealership profits are going to remain elevated well above 2019 levels for some time. A large factor contributing to this confidence is pent-up consumer demand. Prior to the pandemic, US consumers were purchasing an average of 17.3M units per year. If we assume that would have continued over the next four years, there could be as many as 11.2M units that would have sold had they been produced. Even if this number is cut in half, the amount of pent-up demand will fuel the US auto retail industry for some time, keeping margins and profits higher than those seen in the past. While the future is anyones guess, we can tell from the prices that buyers are paying that they believe dealership profits are going to remain elevated well above 2019 levels for some time. A large factor contributing to this confidence is pent-up consumer demand. Prior to the pandemic, US consumers were purchasing an average of 17.3M units per year. If we assume that would have continued over the next four years, there could be as many as 11.2M units that would have sold had they been produced. Even if this number is cut in half, the amount of pent-up demand will fuel the US auto retail industry for some time, keeping margins and profits higher than those seen in the past. A busy year for dealership buy-sells. There are plenty of buyers and sellers in the market. Therefore, we expect the remainder of 2023 to be another busy year for transactions. A typical dealership today is worth around $40M, including real estate and other assets. Mid-sized groups are valued in the hundreds of millions of dollars, and large groups can bring more than a billion dollars. At these values, an increasing number of dealers and their families are having serious conversations about the risks and capital investments required to remain competitive. Many are making the decision to take their chips off the table via a sale to start enjoying the fruits of their labor sooner. There are plenty of buyers and sellers in the market. Therefore, we expect the remainder of 2023 to be another busy year for transactions. A typical dealership today is worth around $40M, including real estate and other assets. Mid-sized groups are valued in the hundreds of millions of dollars, and large groups can bring more than a billion dollars. At these values, an increasing number of dealers and their families are having serious conversations about the risks and capital investments required to remain competitive. Many are making the decision to take their chips off the table via a sale to start enjoying the fruits of their labor sooner. State of consolidation. Driven by a desire for higher profits, whether in local markets or across the country, dealer groups are growing through acquisitions. As groups add more stores, they enjoy a broader mix, attracting more customers and higher economies of scale, which in turn drive improved margins across all dealerships in their portfolio. As the market continues to consolidate, many dealers are wondering: should I get bigger, or should I get out? Driven by a desire for higher profits, whether in local markets or across the country, dealer groups are growing through acquisitions. As groups add more stores, they enjoy a broader mix, attracting more customers and higher economies of scale, which in turn drive improved margins across all dealerships in their portfolio. As the market continues to consolidate, many dealers are wondering: should I get bigger, or should I get out? Almost every franchise is growing again. In 2022, of the 24 franchises we track, 20 saw a drop in sales compared to 2021. Q1 2023 brought the opposite outcome. 20 of the 24 franchises enjoyed sales increases over Q1 2022, with Audi, Infiniti and Porsche leading the pack. Stellantis and Toyota saw a drop in sales. We expect franchises to show sales increases as the year progresses, production continues to ramp up and some OEMS increase their incentives. To any dealers who are wondering what their businesses might be worth, please contact any member of our team to have a confidential conversation about what we see in the market and to discuss how we may be able to assist you in Maximizing the Value of Your Lifes Work. About The Haig Report The Haig Report, the leading industry quarterly report that tracks trends in auto retail and their impact on dealership values, includes data and analysis on the performance of auto dealerships, discusses noteworthy events impacting the automotive retail industry, identifies trends in the M&A market for dealerships, provides guidance on estimated value ranges for different franchises and shares an outlook for the automotive retail buy-sell market. The Haig Report is based on data gathered from reputable public sources and interviews with leading dealer groups and dealers, bankers, lawyers and accountants who specialize in auto retail. About Haig Partners Haig Partners LLC helps dealers maximize the value of their businesses when they are ready to sell. They have unmatched experience with executives from leading retail dealer groups and financial institutions. They have advised on the purchase or sale of more than 590 dealerships for over $9.3 billion, including 25 on the Top 150 Dealership Groups list published by Automotive News, more than any other firm. The team at Haig Partners leverages expertise and relationships to lead clients through a confidential and customizable sales process, helping them to maximize the value of their dealerships. They author the Haig Report, the leading industry quarterly report that tracks trends in auto retail and their impact on dealership values, and co-author NADAs Guide, Buying and Selling a Dealership. For more information, visit www.haigpartners.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005796/en/ Aimee Allen Director of Marketing and Business Development Haig Partners [email protected] (603) 933-2194 Source: Haig Partners LLC NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- ICR, a leading strategic communications and advisory firm, is pleased to announce that world-class chef and entrepreneur Robert Irvine recently appeared on Episode 77 of ICRs Welcome to the Arena podcast. Welcome to the Arena is hosted by Tom Ryan, Co-Founder & CEO of ICR. Tom spoke with Robert about how and why businesses fail, the importance of hiring and maintaining a great team, some of his favorite Restaurant: Impossible success stories, and more. The Welcome to the Arena podcast has featured discussions with CEOs, CFOs, financial analysts, members of the media, investment bankers, private equity executives and others who influence and create value for public and private-equity backed companies. The podcast made its debut in August 2021, airing episodes roughly every two weeks, and is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or anywhere else you get your podcasts. About ICR Established in 1998, ICR partners with its clients to execute strategic communications and advisory programs that achieve business goals, build awareness and credibility, and enhance long-term enterprise value. The firms highly-differentiated service model, which pairs capital markets veterans with senior communications professionals, brings deep sector knowledge and relationships to approximately 1,000 clients across more than 20 industry groups. ICRs healthcare practice operates under the Westwicke brand (www.westwicke.com). Today, ICR is one of the largest and most experienced independent communications and advisory firms in North America, maintaining offices in New York, Norwalk, Boston, Baltimore and Beijing. Learn more at www.icrinc.com. Follow us on Twitter at @ICRPR. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005861/en/ Brian Ruby, ICR, 203-682-8268, [email protected] Source: ICR Completion of the acquisition of 100% of Spedimex, a leading player in contract logistics in Poland and a specialist in the fashion and e-commerce sectors (2022 revenues of 109 million) Strengthening of ID Logistics geographical footprint in Poland with 15 new locations and blue-chip customers Transaction paid 70% in new ID Logistics shares and 30% in cash ORGON, France--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News: ID Logistics, (ISIN : FR0010929125, Ticker: IDL), one of the European leaders in contract logistics is announcing the completion of the acquisition of 100% of Spedimex, a major player in contract logistics in Poland, with strong expertise in the fashion and e-commerce sectors. ACQUISITION OF SPEDIMEX Founded in 1993, Spedimex has become a key player in contract logistics in Poland, with recognized expertise in the fashion and e-commerce sectors for major international and Polish brands, as well as in cosmetics. In addition to contract logistics, Spedimex offers a solid distribution and transport network, value-added logistics services or detail preparation. Spedimex has developed an asset-light model and operates in 15 sites across the country representing 230,000 m. The company has implemented sophisticated mechanization and technology solutions capable of managing large and complex flows such as, for example, stores and e-commerce returns from more than 15 European countries for a single customer. In recent years, Spedimex has significantly increased its turnover to reach PLN 510 million ( 109 million) in 2022. This strategic acquisition for ID Logistics is motivated by the close proximity of cultures and the very similar business models of the two companies: asset light approach, dedicated warehouses, solutions adapted to the specific needs of each operation. The complementarity of customer portfolios and technical expertises between Spedimex and ID Logistics will also allow the development of significant commercial synergies, in particular for leading international customers. Adding Spedimex is perfectly in line with ID Logistics' strategy to support its major customers in their development in Europe and America. Finally, in a dynamic of post-Covid industrial relocation, ID Logistics is strengthening its position in a very dynamic market which already plays a central role in the current reorganizations of supply chains in Europe and records the highest growth in continental Europe. With the acquisition of Spedimex, ID Logistics becomes a market leader in Poland with 35 sites, 7,000 employees and a portfolio of leading industrial customers, retailers and e-merchants. Spedimex will operate under the name ID Logistics and the new entity will be headed by Yann Belgy, Managing Director of ID Logistics in Poland, with Marcin Bak, CEO of Spedimex, providing a 6-month transition period by his side. Yann Belgy, Managing Director of ID Logistics Poland comments "The founders and teams of Spedimex have developed real expertise, particularly in apparel and cosmetics logistics. We are very pleased to join forces today to offer even more value and opportunities to the customers and teams of our 2 companies". TRANSACTION DETAILS The transaction was paid in cash for 23.5m and for the equivalent of 53.9m in new ID Logistics Group shares issued to Marcin Bak, former main shareholder and CEO of Spedimex, becoming a 3.2% shareholder of ID Logistics Group. These payment terms allow ID Logistics to maintain a solid financial structure post-acquisition. In addition to the acquisition of Spedimex, Eric Hemar, Chairman and CEO of ID Logistics Group, has contributed to ID Logistics Group, through the company Immod over which he has control, his 5.0% stake in the sub-holding Ficopar in exchange of new ID Logistics Group shares. This rationalization of the legal structure enables ID Logistics Group to hold 100% of its sub-holding Ficopar. After these two capital transactions, Eric Hemar slightly increases its direct and indirect ownership to 53.0% of the shares of ID Logistics Group, thus retaining the possibility of paying in shares for future acquisitions, ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ID Logistics would like to thank its teams and advisors: Hogan Lovells in France and Poland for corporate M&A (Jean-Marc Franceschi, Arnaud Biancheri / Piotr Kwasiborski, Tomasz Zak) and antitrust (Piotr Skurzynski) 8Advisory (Pierre David Forterre, Hubert Christophe, Jeremy Cosma) / JP Weber (Piotr Dalak, Zbigniew Dus) / Gowling (Barbara Jouffa, Claire Helene Dore) / DZP (Pawel Piorunski, Filip Krezel) for financial, tax and legal due diligence. NEXT RELEASE Q2 2023 revenues : July 24, 2023, after market close. ABOUT ID LOGISTICS : ID Logistics, managed by Eric Hemar, is an international contract logistics group with revenue of 2.5 billion in 2022. ID Logistics manages 375 sites across 18 countries representing more than 8 million square meters of warehousing facilities in Europe, America, Asia and Africa, with 30,000 employees. With a client portfolio balanced between retail, e-commerce and consumer goods, ID Logistics is characterized by offers involving a high level of technology. Developing a social and environmental approach through a number of original projects since its creation in 2001, the Group is today resolutely committed to an ambitious CSR policy. ID Logistics shares are listed on the regulated market of Euronext Paris, compartment A (ISIN code: FR0010929125, Ticker: IDL). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005701/en/ ID LOGISTICS Yann Perot - CFO Tel : +33 (0)4 42 11 06 00 [email protected] INVESTOR Relations NewCap Tel. 33 (0)1 44 71 94 94 [email protected] Source: ID Logistics The presence of European leaders in Moldova shows that Moldova is not alone, as well as Ukraine, President Maia Sandu said at a press conference in Chisinau. "The Republic of Moldova has many friends who are close to us and support us in our aspirations, who join our citizens to build a Moldova that will be European. The presence of these leaders in our country is a message, a very clear message that the Republic of Moldova is not alone," she said. Sandu noted that the same applies to Ukraine, which "has been resisting with heroism and bravery the invasion, the barbaric invasion of Russia for more than a year and three months." "The fact that the second meeting of the political community of the European Union is taking place at a distance of 20 kilometers from the border with Ukraine is proof of strengthening unity on the European continent," Sandu stressed. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, for her part, said that she considers it natural and self-evident that the second summit of the European political community is being held in Moldova, because your country embodies the basic European values. She noted that this is the solidarity that Moldova had shown towards Ukrainian refugees, the steadfastness demonstrated to the blackmail of Russia, and the unity shown by Moldova linking its fate with the European Union. Von der Leyen noted that the European Commission is strengthening support for the economic and investment plan for Moldova. According to her, their initial goal is to achieve EUR 600 million of additional investment, and she promised to triple this amount. Thanks to the additional financing they are mobilizing, she said, they can now attract up to EUR 1.6 billion. DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Leeward Renewable Energy Operations, LLC (LREO) today announced that it has posted to its secure investor relations site key operating and financial results for the first quarter of 2023. An investor call will be held on June 1st, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. CST. Investors who hold LREOs 4.250% Senior Notes due in 2029, prospective investors, broker-dealers, and securities analysts, are invited to join the investor call. Details to access the investor call have been posted to LREOs secure investor relations site. For information on how to access the site, visit https://www.leewardenergy.com/request-access/ or contact Investor Relations at [email protected]. About Leeward Renewable Energy Operations, LLC LREO is wholly owned by Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE), a leading renewable energy company that owns and operates a portfolio of 25 renewable energy facilities across nine states totaling approximately 2,700 megawatts of generating capacity. LRE is actively developing and contracting new wind, solar, and energy storage projects in energy markets across the U.S., with 1.9 gigawatts contracted and 20 gigawatts under development and construction, spanning over 100 projects. LRE is committed to providing long-term, sustainable energy solutions across all its projects that benefit its community partners while protecting and enhancing the environment. LRE is a portfolio company of OMERS Infrastructure, an investment arm of OMERS, one of Canadas largest defined benefit pension plans with C$124.2 billion in net assets (as at December 31, 2022). For more information, visit www.leewardenergy.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005962/en/ For more information: FGS Global for Leeward Renewable Energy Kelly Kimberly/Liz James (713) 822-7538/(281) 881-5170 [email protected] Source: Leeward Renewable Energy Operations, LLC COLUMBUS, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Lisa M. Cini, a distinguished expert in aging in place and long-term care design, has been honored with the esteemed Disability Matters 2023 North America Award for her exceptional contribution to the collaborative project known as "Infinite Living Collaboration: The Werner House." This recognition was announced during the 17th Annual Disability Matters North America Conference, which took place on April 26th and 27th, showcasing the commitment of companies and individuals toward disability inclusion. This recognition is a testament to the power of collaboration and its transformative impact on individuals with disabilities," says Lisa M. Cini. The Disability Matters North America Awards celebrate organizations that have implemented innovative programs leading to successful outreach, recruitment, engagement, and retention of candidates, employees, and customers with disabilities. Springboard Consulting, LLC, the global authority on corporate disability inclusion, produces the annual event and awards across the United States, Europe, and Asia. "Infinite Living Collaboration: The Werner House," a transformative project spearheaded by Lisa M. Cini, was honored with the Marketplace Award at the Disability Matters conference. This collaborative endeavor involved the participation of 54 vendors, designers, and manufacturers, including renowned brands such as Pottery Barn, William Sonoma, Shaw Floors, and Mosaic Design Studio. Together, they worked to create the first aging-in-place technology showcase home and Airbnb, demonstrating the potential of inclusive design and technology integration. Lisa M. Cini's partnership with Pottery Barn was instrumental in this project's success. Their joint efforts resulted in the development of a furniture collection specifically designed to meet the accessibility needs of aging adults and individuals with disabilities, making Pottery Barn one of the first major home retailers to address this need. "In a progressive collaboration towards more inclusive design, our collaboration with and subsequent furniture collection launch with Pottery Barn was a huge step for aging adult and disabled communities," says Lisa M. Cini. "Through the dedication and talent of our vendor collaborators and designers, we have created a showcase home that embodies accessibility, style, and comfort. The Disability Matters North America Conference attracted prominent companies, political organizations, and educators committed to advancing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Attendees had the opportunity to hear inspiring stories from disability advocates, including Michael Kutcher, who has spoken at the Supreme Court on disability-related issues and Adellina Cini who spoke on behalf of her honoree Lisa M. Cini. About Lisa M. Cini: Interior designer and aging expert Lisa M. Cini ASID, IIDA, is the award-winning President / CEO of Mosaic Design Studio and author of Boom: The Baby Boomers' Guide to Preserving Your Freedom and Thriving as You Age in Place; The Future is Here: Senior Living Re-imagined, and Hive, The Simple Guide to Multigenerational Living: How Our Family Makes it Work. Lisa is also the founder of BestLivingTech.com offering tech products that help seniors embrace aging and living independently, Preserve Your Independent Lifestyle & Thrive. For more information on Lisa M. Cini, visit www.lisamcini.com. and to book reservations at the Woodland Manor Mansion/Werner House, the First-of-its-Kind Technology Showplace Allowing Seniors to Experience the Future of Design for Senior Living & Aging in Place please visit www.infinite-living.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005849/en/ Arianna Finger [email protected] Source: lisamcini.com SINGAPORE & JAKARTA, Indonesia--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Mitgo, a global IT/MarTech company, announces the opening of two offices in Indonesia (Jakarta) and Singapore. Admitad, a global partner network, is the first of Mitgos businesses to enter these markets. Admitad has been actively working with businesses and publishers in Indonesia and Singapore for several years now. Its network counts regional players such as adidas, Norton, Shein, Aliexpress, and Banggood as long-term partners. The company also has a significant share of the MarTech market in India. The opening of these new offices will help Mitgo to make further inroads into the Southeast Asian market. Neha Kulwal, Managing Director, Mitgo APAC, will lead the company's expansion. Listed as one of the 50 Most Influential Digital Leaders by CMO Asia and included in BW BusinessWorlds 40 under 40, Kulwal's extensive experience in the Southeast Asian market will be a key driving force behind Mitgo's success. I am confident that APAC, given its immense growth opportunities, will live up to its full potential in driving the business to greater heights. I intend to grow our APAC operations by replicating the India success story. - Neha Kulwal, Managing Director, Mitgo APAC. Indonesia and Singapores e-commerce sectors are experiencing a period of incredible growth. In the first five months of 2023, the number of orders Admitad publishers in Indonesia generated for brands doubled year-on-year. Admitad gained a 15% increase in advertisers and a 30% increase in publishers in both regions. "These markets are poised for explosive growth, similar to the European market several years ago. We want to be the first to take advantage of this trend, enabling local companies and publishers to accelerate growth and unlock new revenue streams. With Neha Kulwal leading our efforts, we are confident in securing Mitgo's position in these markets, further expanding our global footprint." - Alexander Bachmann, CEO of Admitad and Mitgo. The company plans to invest in the local digital environment by recruiting local talent, sponsoring events and supporting promising new projects. Future plans involve further expanding the companys footprint across APAC, enabling businesses in other markets to take advantage of the global reach they provide. "Our entry into Singapore and Indonesia will pave the way for expansion into other promising countries in the region, such as Vietnam and the Philippines." - Bruno Acar, Chief International Officer, Mitgo. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230526005147/en/ Adhish Kacker [email protected] +91-9452203586 Source: Mitgo TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- A year full of remarkable labour victories and displays of worker power is being celebrated at this years CUPE Ontario convention, and anticipation of plans for the year ahead is running high among the thousand delegates meeting in downtown Toronto. They are attending the unions first in-person convention in three years. The theme for 2023s convention is Celebrating Solidarity, Building Power to Make Change, chosen as both a reflection of the past years achievements and of the direction of the unions work in the province over the coming year. The value of the work of CUPE members was never more apparent than during the pandemic, and the recognition of that value was never more evident than during the past year, said CUPE Ontario President Fred Hahn. We saw workers organize and mobilize like never before, we saw the labour movement come together, and we saw Doug Ford forced to repeal anti-worker legislation that was meant to bully education workers. Our convention is about putting together an action plan that will build on those victories, that public support, and that momentum to deliver better public services for Ontarians and a better deal for CUPE Ontario members. Convention attendees will hear from an inspiring lineup of speakers, starting on opening day when CUPE National President Mark Hancock and CUPE National Secretary-Treasurer Candace Rennick will address delegates. CUPE Ontario will also welcome as keynote convention speakers Terry Melvin, International President of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, who will speak on Thursday; and Marit Stiles, Leader of Ontarios New Democrats, who will address convention on Friday. Over the course of convention, delegates will also mark Injured Workers Day with a rally on June 1; and join the Ontario Federation of Labours Enough is Enough rally on June 3. I am proud and grateful to spend these days alongside so many dedicated CUPE Ontario activists, said CUPE Ontario Secretary-Treasurer Yolanda McClean. At a time when were asserting our rights and our worth more boldly than we have a long time, CUPE Ontarios convention will ensure that all voices are heard in the critical decision-making that will guide the work of our union in the days to come. CUPE Ontarios convention takes place from May 31 to June 3 at Torontos Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005661/en/ Mary Unan, CUPE Communications 647-390-9839 [email protected] Source: Canadian Union of Public Employees Becomes first U.S.-based coatings company to receive validation from Science Based Targets initiative PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- PPG (NYSE: PPG) today announced its near-term 2030 sustainability goals, including greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets that have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The company also marked strong progress against its environmental, social and governance (ESG) priorities, reporting increased sales of sustainably advantaged products, more efficient operations, strong momentum towards achieving diversity, equity and inclusion goals, greater supplier sustainability and strengthened support within communities where the company operates. PPG has long been committed to reducing the environmental impact of its own operations, and we are proud to have validated science-based GHG emissions targets that are in line with the expectations of the Paris Agreement, said Diane Kappas, PPG vice president, global sustainability. By raising our sustainability ambitions and increasing sales of sustainable solutions for our customers, PPG is advancing its leadership in the paints and coatings industry. PPG has committed to reduce absolute emissions from its own operations (scope 1 and 2) by 50% by 2030 from a 2019 base year. It has also committed to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services, processing of sold products, and end-of-life treatment of sold products by 30% within the same timeframe. The companys emissions reduction strategy for its own operations includes energy efficiency projects and renewable energy sourcing. Within the value chain or scope 3 PPG is collaborating with suppliers to identify GHG emissions reduction opportunities and lower-carbon raw material sources. PPG recently signed an agreement with NRG Energy Inc. that will enable four PPG paints and coatings manufacturing facilities and 62 PPG PAINTS stores in Texas to operate on 100% renewable electricity. In addition to its science-based emission targets, PPGs other 2030 ESG targets against a 2019 baseline are: 50% of sales from sustainably advantaged products 15% reduction in water intensity at priority sites 25% reduction in waste intensity Reuse, recycle or recover 100% of process waste $5 million additional COLORFUL COMMUNITIES funding, with each project incorporating an element of sustainability, making the total investment $15 million since 2015 100% of key suppliers assessed against sustainability and social responsibility criteria 100% of employees go home safely each day 5% annual reduction in spill and release rate Furthermore, the company outlined key progress from the 2022 reporting year including: Developing sustainable innovations that meet customers greatest needs, such as the launch of PPG INNOVEL PRO, a non-bisphenol/non-BPA coating that ensures minimal spoilage and protection for aluminum beverage cans, while promoting circularity. Collaborating with Steelcase, a U.S. manufacturer of architecture, furniture and technology products, to further increase the circularity of PPG powder coatings. PPG developed processes to recycle powder overspray into new coatings, which Steelcase uses on brackets, inside drawers and other less-visible surfaces in its products. Continued investment in PPGs signature Colorful Communities initiative. The company marked more than 470 projects, impacting more than 8 million people since 2015. initiative. The company marked more than 470 projects, impacting more than 8 million people since 2015. Strong improvement against 2025 diversity, equity and inclusion aspirational goals, including: 19% increase in U.S. non-frontline Black headcount 16% increase in U.S. non-frontline Latino headcount 8% increase in U.S. non-frontline Asian headcount 31% representation of non-frontline female professionals; a 180 basis-point improvement from 2021 We remain committed to our journey of fostering a more diverse and inclusive community both within and beyond PPG, said Marvin Mendoza, PPG global head, diversity, equity and inclusion. We know that diverse teams perform better, and our 2022 progress is enabling a more equitable, inclusive future where employees feel even more empowered to bring their whole selves to work. Additional 2022 progress is outlined in further detail in PPGs just-released 2022 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report at ppg.com/sustainability. The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) mobilizes companies to set science-based targets and boost their competitive advantage in the transition to the low-carbon economy. It is a partnership between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The SBTi call to action is one of the We Mean Business Coalition commitments. The initiative defines and promotes best practice in science-based target setting, offers resources and guidance to reduce barriers to adoption, and independently assesses and approves companies targets. PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD At PPG (NYSE: PPG), we work every day to develop and deliver the paints, coatings and specialty materials that our customers have trusted for 140 years. Through dedication and creativity, we solve our customers biggest challenges, collaborating closely to find the right path forward. With headquarters in Pittsburgh, we operate and innovate in more than 70 countries and reported net sales of $17.7 billion in 2022. We serve customers in construction, consumer products, industrial and transportation markets and aftermarkets. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com. PPG Paints is a trademark and Colorful Communities, Innovel, the PPG Logo and We protect and beautify the world are registered trademarks of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc. CATEGORY Sustainability View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005110/en/ Greta Edgar Borza Corporate Communications +1 724 316 7552 [email protected] www.ppg.com Source: PPG PORT-GENTIL, Gabon--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News: TotalEnergies EP Gabons (Paris: EC) ordinary Annual Shareholders Meeting was held today in Port-Gentil, chaired by Mr. Henri-Max NDONG NZUE. Shareholders approved all resolutions recommended by the Board of Directors, including: Approval of the 2022 financial statements including a net income of $340 million under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) referential and $131 million under OHADA standards. Approval of the payment of a net dividend of $22.22 per share related to the financial year 2022 for a total amount of $100 million. Ratification of Mr Akim Mohamed DAOUDAs co-optation as director for two-year terms expiring at the end of the Annual Shareholders Meeting called to approve the 2024 financial statements and Mr Georges-Eric NKOMA for the remainder of his predecessors term, until the Annual Shareholders Meeting called to approve the 2023 financial statements. Renewal of the directors mandates of MM. Henri-Max NDONG NZUE, Aristide OBIANG MEBALE, Dimitri LOBADOWSKY, Yann DUCHESNE and Etienne MBOUMBA for a two-year term expiring at the end of the Annual Shareholders Meeting called to approve the 2024 financial statements. Determination of the global compensation ceiling of the statutory auditors for preparing their reports on the 2023 financial statements. A detailed breakdown of the vote tallies will be posted on the Companys website www.ep.totalenergies.ga in the coming days. The Board of Directors in its meeting today approved the modalities of the dividend payment. The $22,22 per share dividend will be paid in euro as from June 9, 2023 in an equivalent amount of 20.80 per share, based on the European Central Banks rate (or its corresponding value in CFA francs) of $1.0683 per euro on May 31, 2023. About TotalEnergies EP Gabon TotalEnergies EP Gabon is 58.28% owned by TotalEnergies SE, 25% by the Gabonese Republic and 16.72% by the public. About TotalEnergies TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our 100,000 employees are committed to energy that is ever more affordable, cleaner, more reliable and accessible to as many people as possible. Active in more than 130 countries, TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the well-being of people. @TotalEnergies TotalEnergies TotalEnergies TotalEnergies Cautionary Note The terms "TotalEnergies", "TotalEnergies Company" and "Company" appearing in this document are used to refer to TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that TotalEnergies SE controls directly or indirectly. Similarly, the terms "we", "us", "our" may also be used to refer to these entities or their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE holds a stake directly or indirectly are separate and autonomous legal persons. TotalEnergies SE cannot be held liable for acts or omissions emanating from these companies. This document may contain forward-looking statements. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are dependent on risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries undertakes or assumes any commitment or responsibility to investors or any other stakeholder to update or revise, in particular as a result of new information or future events, any or all of the statements, forward-looking information, trends or objectives contained in this document. Information regarding risk factors that could have a material adverse effect on TotalEnergies' financial results or operations is also available in the most up-to-date versions of the Universal Registration Document filed by TotalEnergies SE with the Autorite des marches financiers and Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005926/en/ Contacts TotalEnergies EP Gabon [email protected] Media Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 99 l [email protected] l @TotalEnergiesPR Investor Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 46 l [email protected] Source: TOTALENERGIES EP GABON First quarter 2023 results PORT-GENTIL, Gabon--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News: TotalEnergies EP Gabon (Paris: EC): Main Financial Indicators Q1 23 Q1 22 Q1 23 vs Q1 22 Average Brent price $/b 81.2 102.2 -21% Average TotalEnergies EP Gabon crude price (1) $/b 74.3 97.4 -24% Crude oil production from fields operated by TotalEnergies EP Gabon (3) kb/d (2) 16.2 16.5 -2% Sales volumes by TotalEnergies EP Gabon (4) Mb (5) 1.32 1.85 -29% Revenues (6) $M 105 188 -44% Funds generated from operations (7) $M 58 30 +93% Capital expenditure $M 24 6 x4 Net income $M 22 21 +5% (1) The crude price calculation excludes profit oil reverting to the Gabonese Republic as per production sharing contracts, these barrels being handed over in kind to the host state. (2) kb/d : Thousand barrels per day. (3) Including profit oil reverting to the Gabonese Republic as per production sharing contracts. (4) Sales volume excludes profit oil reverting to the Gabonese Republic as per production sharing contracts, these barrels being handed over in kind to the host state. (5) Mb : Million of barrels. (6) Revenue from hydrocarbon sales and services (transportation, processing and storage),, including profit oil reverting to the Gabonese Republic as per production sharing contracts. (7) Funds generated from operations are comprised of the operating cash flow, the gains or losses on disposals of assets and the working capital changes. First Quarter 2023 Results Selling Price In the first quarter 2023, Brent averaged $81.2 per barrel ($/b), down 21% compared to the first quarter 2022 (102.2 $/b). In a falling oil price environment, the average selling price of the crude oil grade marketed by TotalEnergies EP Gabon averaged to 74.3 $/b, receding 24% compared to the first quarter 2022. Production TotalEnergies EP Gabons crude oil production averaged in the first quarter 2023 16.2 kb/d, slightly down compared to the first quarter 2022 (16.5 kb/d) mainly due to lower availability of the gas lift compressor on Torpille field, and the natural decline of the fields. Revenue The first quarter 2023 revenues amounted to $105 million, down 44% compared to the first quarter 2022, mainly due to the lower average selling price of the crude oil grade marketed by TotalEnergies EP Gabon and lower volumes sold related to a less favorable lifting program. Funds Generated from Operations Funds generated from operations amounted to $58 million in the first quarter of 2023, compared to $30 million in the first quarter of 2022. It was positively impacted, between the compared periods, by the working capital variation ($ +30 million) due to the favorable price effect evolution. Capital Expenditure Capital expenditure amounted to $24 million in the first quarter 2023, compared to $6 million in the first quarter 2022, mainly due to the increase pace of wells intervention campaign preparation and direct greenhouse gas emission related to our activities reduction projects. Net Income The first quarter 2023 net income amounted to $22 million, stable compared the first quarter 2022 ($21 million). It was positively impacted by lower operating costs, amortization and current tax expense, and negatively by the receding of the average selling price and volumes of crude oil marketed by TotalEnergies EP Gabon. Highlights since the beginning of first quarter 2023 Board of Directors Meeting March 22, 2023 The Board of Directors approved on March 22, 2023 the accounts for the year ending December 31, 2022 and decided that it will recommend at the Annual Meeting on May 31, 2023 that shareholders approve the payment of a dividend of $22.22 dollars per share, for a total pay-out of $100 million. *** About TotalEnergies EP Gabon TotalEnergies EP Gabon is 58.28% owned by TotalEnergies SE, 25% by the Gabonese Republic and 16.72% by the public. About TotalEnergies TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our 100,000 employees are committed to energy that is ever more affordable, cleaner, more reliable and accessible to as many people as possible. Active in more than 130 countries, TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the well-being of people. @TotalEnergies TotalEnergies TotalEnergies TotalEnergies Cautionary Note The terms "TotalEnergies", "TotalEnergies Company" and "Company" appearing in this document are used to refer to TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that TotalEnergies SE controls directly or indirectly. Similarly, the terms "we", "us", "our" may also be used to refer to these entities or their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE holds a stake directly or indirectly are separate and autonomous legal persons. TotalEnergies SE cannot be held liable for acts or omissions emanating from these companies. This document may contain forward-looking statements. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are dependent on risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries undertakes or assumes any commitment or responsibility to investors or any other stakeholder to update or revise, in particular as a result of new information or future events, any or all of the statements, forward-looking information, trends or objectives contained in this document. Information regarding risk factors that could have a material adverse effect on TotalEnergies' financial results or operations is also available in the most up-to-date versions of the Universal Registration Document filed by TotalEnergies SE with the Autorite des marches financiers and Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005920/en/ TotalEnergies EP Gabon [email protected] Media Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 99 l [email protected] l @TotalEnergiesPR Investor Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 46 l [email protected] Source: TOTALENERGIES EP GABON ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, today announced $2.7 billion in offtake agreements for the UAEs industrial sector in a move to boost local manufacturing, strengthen supply chains and attract international investors. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005894/en/ His Excellency Dr Sultan Al Jaber UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology (Photo: AETOSWire) Addressing the second Make it in the Emirates Forum, HE Dr. Al Jaber said the new set of procurement opportunities would build on the previous forums offtake agreements. One of the key achievements of last years forum was several leading national companies announcing their intention to invest $29.9 billion over the next decade to purchase 300 products from local manufacturers, HE Dr. Al Jaber said. I am pleased to share with you that in the first year alone, 28 percent of these offtake agreements have been implemented, representing a total value of $8.4 billion. HE Dr. Al Jaber also announced plans for more than 30 new industrial projects, representing more than $1.6 billion of investments. These projects include pioneering initiatives such as setting up the first hydrogen electrolyzer plant in the UAE, he said. $1.63 billion of financing solutions for the industrial sector were also announced along with 5,000 jobs for UAE nationals in industry through the Industrialist Program. HE Dr. Al Jaber added: I invite all attendees and participants to explore through this forum the incentives and enablers provided by various economic development departments, industrial and special zones, financing institutions, and national companies. The UAEs industrial exports reached $47.6 billion in 2022, growing 49 percent compared to 2021. The industrial sector's contribution to GDP rose to $49.5 billion in 2022, a 38 percent increase on 2020. The Make it in the Emirates Forum is organized by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and ADNOC. Twitter: @moiatuae Instagram: @moiatuae Source: AETOSWire View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005894/en/ Tasnim Hijazi APCO Worldwide 00971521607687 [email protected] Source: Make it in the Emirates Forum TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Uchiyama International Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "we") along with our affiliated companies, holds approximately 10% of the voting rights in Fujitec Co., Ltd. (TOKYO: 6406) (hereinafter referred to as "Fujitec" or the Company). At Fujitecs upcoming 76th Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on June 21, 2023, we are putting forth a shareholder proposal recommending 8 independent outside director candidates as well as other proposals that benefit the interests of Fujitecs all stakeholders. Please view our Proposal and other items via our website, https://freefujitec.com/en/top/. We hereby announce our official position regarding the Company Proposal released on May 29. The decision has been shared and approved by our 8 independent candidates, to offer all shareholders our transparent decision-making process. 1. Vote AGAINST the 5 current Outside Board Members (Proposal No. 2) Kazuhiro Mishina - After the EGM in February, Mishina decided to switch sides to vote against the Company, raising questions to his independence and integrity (he had voted with the Company in all previous instances). In addition, when he was a Company candidate, Mishina publicly agreed to not accept Restricted Stock Units; however, since the EGM, it seems, he has changed his position and is now accepting these as evidenced by the Company release. Furthermore, his purely academic background (no business experience) does not correspond to the skills needed to be the Chair of the Compensation and Nomination Committee. These reasons for not supporting his nomination echo those flagged by proxy advisers in their recommendation against his appointment at the EGM. After the EGM in February, Mishina decided to switch sides to vote against the Company, raising questions to his independence and integrity (he had voted with the Company in all previous instances). In addition, Furthermore, his purely academic background (no business experience) does not correspond to the skills needed to be the Chair of the Compensation and Nomination Committee. These reasons for not supporting his nomination echo those flagged by proxy advisers in their recommendation against his appointment at the EGM. Kaoru Umino - As a US-only lawyer with no business management experience, Ms. Umino has been put forward for corporate governance and gender diversity. However, in our judgment, she is not qualified to lead discussions on business and strategy as Chair of the Board. As Chair of the Board these past 3 months, Ms. Umino has allowed emergency procedures on the Board and seems to only follow Oasis demands, raising questions on her independence, neutrality and leadership as Chair. As a US-only lawyer with no business management experience, Ms. Umino has been put forward for corporate governance and gender diversity. However, in our judgment, she is not qualified to lead discussions on business and strategy as Chair of the Board. As Chair of the Board these past 3 months, Ms. Umino has allowed emergency procedures on the Board and seems to only follow Oasis demands, raising questions on her independence, neutrality and leadership as Chair. Torsten Gessner - Overlaps in business skill and experience to the Companys new nominee Anthony Black. Also has limited scope on broader business and governance-level oversight as his career has only been in the elevator industry. Most importantly, there are independence concerns raised, as there has been information provided recently that Mr. Gessner has a previous business relationship with Anthony Black. Overlaps in business skill and experience to the Companys new nominee Anthony Black. Also has limited scope on broader business and governance-level oversight as his career has only been in the elevator industry. Ako Shimada - Barely secured majority support at the February EGM with 51.1%. There is already a US-Lawyer in Umino, and Shimada is currently over-loaded as general counsel at 2 companies 1 in the US and 1 in Europe. Based on her publicly available records, she does not have particularly noteworthy experience as a lawyer. Barely secured majority support at the February EGM with 51.1%. There is already a US-Lawyer in Umino, and Shimada is currently over-loaded as general counsel at 2 companies 1 in the US and 1 in Europe. Based on her publicly available records, she does not have particularly noteworthy experience as a lawyer. Clark Graninger - Barely secured majority support at EGM with 51.8%, with at least one proxy adviser recommending against and many major international shareholders voting against. 2. Vote AGAINST the 1 newly proposed nominee Anthony Black (Proposal No. 2) There has been no explanation of the process and rationale of Mr. Blacks nomination by the Company, thus raising concern on his independence and the transparency behind his nomination . Presumably, Oasis nominated him, further accentuating our concerns as to why the Company has not released any information about the selection process. . Mr. Black has a long and tenured career at Otis and is an expert in elevators. However, it should be known that Otis was just recently spun off of United Technologies, after scrutiny of activist investors pointing to years of poor management and low profitability. Mr. Black is currently also is a full-time President of a US-based company, which calls into doubt whether he has sufficient time to devote to a non-executive director role at a Japanese listed company. Furthermore, even while only 1 of the current Board members has experience as an executive or board members of a listed company, Mr. Black also has no experience in either of these. Consequently, Mr. Black does not fill any gaps or need in the Companys skill matrix overlaps in elevator experience with Mr. Gessner, and does not fill experience gaps as previous board experience. Most importantly, there are independence and diversity concerns raised, as there has been information provided recently that Mr. Gessner has a previous business relationship with Anthony Black. 3. Vote Against Companys Dividend Proposal of 75 yen (Proposal No. 1) We are AGAINST the Company proposal of a 75 yen dividend, and advise all shareholders to vote for the Shareholder proposal of 100 yen (Proposal No. 12). The Company is in a position of strong financial standing, and has paid out dividend ratios of approximately 70% the past 2 years. The 100 yen put forward in our Shareholder Proposal will follow this trend of sustainable and healthy dividends to suitably reward long-term shareholders of Fujitec. 4. Vote FOR the 3 company internal executives (Masayoshi Harada, Takashige Nakajima, Kosuke Sato) Although we are aghast that the current Board decided to remove and replace ALL 3 internal executive directors - especially as 2 of the 3 proposed candidates have no experience as Board members and have less than 4 years of experience at Fujitec in the interests of stability and to restore confidence to Fujitecs customers and employees, we will vote FOR the election of the 3 internal executive director candidates proposed (Masayoshi Harada, Takashige Nakajima, Kosuke Sato). In summary, we are excited about the future of Fujitec, but believe an inexperienced board, as is currently in place, is causing instability and discord in the Company and to all stakeholders. With the seemingly rushed and disorganized selection of candidates, we are even more certain that EXPERIENCE AND STABILITY are desperately needed at the board level. As a 10% shareholder, we are strongly motivated to contribute to the long-term financial performance of Fujitec as best we can. However, as illustrated in the highly flawed interview process adopted by the Company regarding our alternative nominees (please click here for information), we feel it important to communicate our stance on all of the key proposals being put forward for shareholders consideration at the June 21 Meeting. We will continue to provide our views and vision for Fujitec to further its mission to become the #1 elevator and escalator company in Asia. Please join our cause in, One Board, One Company, One Fujitec. About Uchiyama International Co., Ltd: Uchiyama International Co., Ltd, including affiliated companies, is a shareholder holding approximately 10% of Fujitec's voting rights. Through its long-term ownership of Fujitec, Uchiyama International Co., Ltd. supports the enhancement of Fujitec's corporate value and its contribution to society. We are working toward, "One Board, One Company, One Fujitec". View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005475/en/ KRIKPR Agent Koshida81-070-8793-3990 Sugiyama+81-070-8793-3989 Source: Uchiyama International Co., Ltd. CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- United Structural Systems (USS), a portfolio company of Summit Park, is pleased to announce it has completed a recapitalization of Ox Foundation Solutions (Ox), a residential foundation repair and basement waterproofing services provider serving customers primarily in Alabama. The investment was made in partnership with Ox owners Kevin Weber and Dannon Appleyard. Kevin serves as CEO and Dannon leads the companys sales efforts. They will both maintain leadership roles going forward. Headquartered in Calera, AL, Ox provides encapsulation, foundation repair and floor support, basement waterproofing, and polyurethane injection services to residential homeowners. Ox represents the first add-on acquisition for USS. With over 25 years of experience, USS provides foundation repair, crawl space repair, and basement waterproofing services to residential homeowners in Middle Tennessee, Southern Kentucky, and Northern Alabama, as well as to commercial customers throughout the country. Summit Park invested in USS in February 2023. Stephen Stites, Vice President at Summit Park, said, Were thrilled to partner with Kevin, Dannon, and the rest of their team to accelerate the growth of Ox. The companys strong reputation and complementary geographic presence make the business a perfect first add-on acquisition for USS. Craig Leyers, President and CEO of USS, added, We are excited to welcome Ox to the USS family. They share our core values of creating a great place to work for our team members and providing superior service to our customers. We believe this partnership will enhance our ability to grow both Ox and USS, and are excited to continue our M&A campaign. Kevin Weber, CEO of Ox, added, Dannon and I have invested meaningfully over the last several years to build Ox into the business it is today. For that reason, we did not take our choice of partner lightly. Were more confident than weve ever been in the companys future success and look forward to its next phase of growth with the support and partnership of USS and Summit Park. About United Structural Systems United Structural Systems is a leading provider of foundation repair, crawl space repair, and basement waterproofing services. USS is headquartered in Nashville, TN and primarily serves residential homeowners in Central Tennessee, Southern Kentucky, and Northern Alabama. With over 25 years of experience, USS has established itself as a leading service provider through its commitment to its customers and high-quality work. For more information, visit: https://usstn.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 firms 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005306/en/ Neale Butler [email protected] Source: Summit Park Ukraine will receive military, humanitarian and civilian aid from Norway totaling NOK 75 billion (about EUR 6.8 billion) over five years, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre said during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Oslo. Military support from Norway and other Western countries is essential to the Ukrainian war effort, and we will support Ukraine for as long as is necessary. Under the Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine, Norway will provide military, humanitarian and civilian support totalling NOK 75 billion over a period of five years, said Stre, the press service of the Norwegian government said. He also stressed that Norway and other allies have supported Ukraine from the very beginning in its legitimate struggle for independence and freedom. Valedictorian plans run as POTUS in 2040 MURRAY, Utah--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Utah Virtual Academy (UTVA) honored 198 senior graduates from more than 75 cities and towns throughout Utah during commencement exercises Tuesday. UTVA is a full-time online public school for students in grades K12. Photos available here. We are so proud of the Class of 2023, said Meghan Merideth, executive director at UTVA. They have worked hard. In fact, more than 80 members of the class are honor or high honor students. The commencement keynote speaker was Representative Candice B. Pierucci (R-Riverton/Herriman) of the Utah House of Representatives. Rep. Pierucci is the Chair of the Standing Education Committee, Vice Chair of the Conservative Caucus and Chair of the Republican Women Lead PAC. Rep. Pierucci also serves on the Government Operations Committee and Public Education Appropriations. I would like to wish a big congratulations to the 2023 graduating class of the Utah Virtual Academy! said Pierucci. As someone who has spent their legislative service advocating for school choice and the need to empower parents with more learning options for their childs education, Im so grateful for incredible schools like the Utah Virtual Academy that allow students to customize their learning experience and meet their educational needs. I firmly believe that supporting education means supporting the best approach for educating each individual child in our stateUTVA empowers parents with the tools to do so! Kearns resident Madeline Kahl, UTVA Class of 2023 valedictorian, finished her UTVA high school career taking a few final high school classes along with college courses from the University of Utah. Not just a high school scholar, but also an athlete, she also competed with the Kearns High School swim team. Kahl plans to become President of the United States in 2040. Speaking on her ambitious goals following commencement, Kahl said, After I get my bachelors degree, Ill be going hopefully to Harvard Law School to study criminal law. After that I want to go into politics. I believe I can be President [of the United States] in 2040. When asked what it means to be valedictorian and how she accomplished the recognition, she said, I worked really hard. Ive pretty much had As for all of my life. And honestly, with being able to do online school, Ive been able to work on not just learning, but also about the world, Ive also been able to learn a lot about myselflike if I really set my mind to something I can do it as long as Im in the right mindset. Kahl knows she has been able to get everything she needs from her online school experience. Its a lot more fun than doing public school because you get to make friends online as well, especially if youre an introvert like me, she said. The teachers are absolutely fantastic. They are truly the best of the best and they want you to succeed not only in class, but also in life. Regarding her fellow classmates, Kahl said, They can do it no matter what background they come fromthey can do it. They can continue on with life and they can be successful. They just have to want to be successful. And they don't always need everybody to like them. I know that's a huge thing getting everybody to like them, but they don't need to try and be good enough for everybody else. They need to be good enough for themselves. Merideth said these seniors have conquered UTVAs mission to attain superior academic achievement with parental involvement, and innovative teaching. All within a virtual environment that embraces individual learning styles. We are so proud to send our graduates out into the world to accomplish everything they set out to do. About Utah Virtual Academy Utah Virtual Academy (UTVA) is an accredited online public charter school that serves Utah students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The school is accredited by Cognia Accreditation and Certification. As part of the Utah public school system UTVA is tuition-free and gives parents and families the choice to access the curriculum provided by K12, a Stride company (NYSE: LRN). Stride offers learners of all ages a more effective way to learn and build their skills for the future. UTVA also offers individual course options for high school students enrolled in their resident district programs, an approved charter school, private school or home school as part of the Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP). For more information about UTVA, please go to utva.k12.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005765/en/ Cory Maloy Maloy PR (801)319-7900 [email protected] Ken Schwartz Stride, Inc. 571-405-2211 [email protected] Source: Stride, Inc. TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- XTM Inc. ("XTM" or the "Corporation") (QB: XTMIF / CSE: PAID / FSE: 7XT) is providing an update to its previously announced management cease trade order (the "MCTO") granted by the Ontario Securities Commission (the OSC) under National Policy 12-203 - Management Cease Trade Orders ("NP 12-203"). Pursuant to the MCTO, the Corporations CEO, Marilyn Schaffer, and the Corporations CFO, Paul Dowdall, may not trade in securities of the Corporation until such time as the Corporation files its annual audited financial statements, annual management's discussion and analysis and related certifications for the year ended December 31, 2022 (collectively, the "Required Documents"), and the OSC revokes the MCTO. The delay in filing the required documents is in connection with to a recent change of auditor for the Corporation and audit requirements resulting from increased transaction volume experienced by the Corporation. The MCTO does not affect the ability of other shareholders to trade their securities. In addition to the late filing of the Required Documents, the Company does not believe it will be in a position to file its interim financial statements, managements discussion and analysis and related certifications for the three-month financial period ended March 31, 2023 (the Additional Disclosure Documents). As such, the Company has requested, and the OSC recently confirmed, an extension to the MCTO until July 17, 2023 for the Company to file their Required Documents and Additional Disclosure Documents. The Company expects to file the Additional Disclosure Documents concurrently with the filing of the Required Documents as soon as it has obtained the necessary approvals, subject to further unforeseen delays. XTM also confirms that it intends to satisfy the provisions of NP 12-203 and issue bi-weekly default status reports for so long as they remain in default of the financial statement filing requirement, containing any material changes to the information in this release, all actions taken by XTM to remedy the default, particulars of any failure by the Corporation to fulfill these provisions, any subsequent defaults of XTM requiring a default announcement and any other material information concerning the affairs of the Corporation not previously disclosed. About XTM XTM, www.xtminc.com, is a Miami and Toronto-based fintech innovator in the neo-banking space, helping businesses and service workers in the hospitality and personal care space disseminate and access earned wages and gratuities. XTM's Today Solution, comprised of a free mobile app and a Visa or Mastercard debit card with free banking features, is used by thousands of restaurants, salons and staff across Canada and the United States. XTM is a global card issuer and real-time payment specialist. Our technology is used by Restaurants, Salons and service staff at no charge to automate and expedite Earned Wage and Gratuity Access, increasing time and attendance and eliminating cash from ecosystems. XTM's Today solution drives operational efficiencies and delivers a bespoke user experience designed specifically for service workers. The CSE has not approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release, and the CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "likely" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Forward-looking information in this press release includes, without limitation, statements relating to the date of filing of the Required Documents and Additional Disclosure Documents and the satisfaction of the provisions of NP 12- 203. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future and there are many factors that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained herein is made as of the date of this press release and is based on the beliefs, estimates, expectations and opinions of management on the date such forward looking information is made. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward looking information, whether as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward looking information, except as required by applicable law. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005714/en/ Marilyn Schaffer E: [email protected] T: 416.260.1641 Source: XTM Inc. 9,303 total articles have been posted to this category. Sign-up to StreetInsider.com Premium to see all today's market moving Commodities reports. Franklin Resources, Inc. [NYSE:BEN], a global investment management organization operating as Franklin Templeton, today announced a strategic partnership with Power Corporation of Canada (Power and, together with its subsidiaries, the Power Group of Companies) [TSX:POW] and Great-West Lifeco, Inc. (Great-West) [TSX:GWO]. The Power Group of Companies including Great-West and IGM Financial (IGM) [TSX:IGM] are leaders in the global insurance, retirement, asset management and wealth management sectors and have collective assets under management and/or administration (AUM/AUA) of approximately $2.1 trillion1. Great-West includes Empower in the US as well as Canada Life in Canada and Irish Life in Europe. IGM encompasses subsidiaries Mackenzie Financial and IG Wealth Management and also has investments in Rockefeller Capital Management and China Asset Management Co. As a foundation of the partnership, Franklin Templeton has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Putnam Investments (Putnam) from Great-West for approximately $925 million2 of primarily equity consideration. Great-West will become a long-term strategic shareholder in Franklin Resources, Inc., with an approximate 6.2% stake, consistent with Great-Wests continuing commitment to asset management. Great-West will provide an initial long-term asset allocation of $25 billion to Franklin Templetons specialist investment managers within 12 months of closing with that amount expected to increase over the next several years. The strategic partnership aligns with Franklin Templetons focus to further grow insurance client assets, and significantly broadens the relationship between Franklin Templeton and the Power Group of Companies in key areas of retirement, asset management and wealth management. Founded in 1937, Putnam is a global asset management firm with $136 billion3 in AUM as of April 2023. Putnam has offices in Boston, London, Munich, Tokyo, Singapore and Sydney. Putnams complementary capabilities and track record of strong investment performance accelerates Franklin Templetons growth in the retirement markets by increasing its defined contribution AUM and expanding its insurance assets, while adding further scale and efficiency to Franklin Templetons mutual fund platform. Consistent with Franklin Templetons previous acquisitions, the execution plan is designed to minimize disruption to Putnams investment teams and client relationships. This is a compelling transaction for Franklin Templeton, and we are excited about the numerous opportunities that will be unlocked by this long-term strategic partnership with the Power Group of Companies including Great-West, said Jenny Johnson, President and CEO of Franklin Templeton. Power and Great-West are global leaders across financial services, particularly in the wealth, insurance and retirement channels. With outstanding investment performance, Putnam will add complementary capabilities to our existing specialist investment managers to meet the varied needs of our clients and will increase Franklin Templetons defined contribution AUM. We are pleased to welcome Great-West as a strategic investor, along with the impressive team at Putnam. Franklin Templeton is a leading global asset management firm, whose business model is well-positioned to build upon the investment and distribution strengths of Putnam, said R. Jeffrey Orr, Chair of Great-West, and President and CEO of Power. We are pleased to enter a partnership with Franklin Templeton that will be mutually beneficial to clients and our respective businesses. This transaction furthers Great-Wests strategy of building strategic partnerships with best-in-class asset managers to support our clients retirement, insurance, and wealth management needs, said Paul Mahon, President and CEO of Great-West. "Franklin Templetons scale and breadth, together with Putnams capabilities, will drive positive outcomes for our companies, our clients, and our investors. Critical to this transaction is the strong alignment between our organizations. We share a client-centric culture, a core belief in active management, a collaborative and research-based investment approach, and a long-held commitment to fundamental investment principles, said Robert Reynolds, President and CEO of Putnam. We look forward to joining Franklin Templeton in this next phase of our growth, as we come together to serve our clients, upholding our commitment to them and their needs. Transaction Details The transaction is structured to maintain Franklin Templetons financial flexibility and enhance continued investment across the firm. Franklin Templeton will pay approximately $825 million2 in stock consideration up-front at closing and $100 million in cash 180 days after closing for 100% of Putnam. Franklin Resources, Inc. will issue 33.3 million shares of its common stock to Great-West, 26.2 million of these shares, representing 4.9% of Franklin Resources, Inc.s outstanding common stock, are subject to a 5-year lock-up, and the remaining shares are subject to a 180-day lock-up. In addition, Franklin Templeton will pay up to $375 million in contingent consideration tied to revenue growth targets from the partnership. The transaction is expected to be modestly accretive to run-rate adjusted EPS by the end of the first year after closing, inclusive of cost synergies and is anticipated to close in the fourth calendar quarter of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions. An investor presentation on the transaction is available via investors.franklintempleton.com. Ardea Partners LP served as lead financial advisor and Broadhaven Capital Partners LLC provided financial advice to Franklin Templeton. Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP served as legal counsel. 1. As of 03/31/23 per Power Corp. of Canada 1Q 2023 Report, exchange rate between CAD / USD as of 03/31/23 per FactSet. 2. Based on stock price as of close of May 30, 2023. Includes approximately $825mm of Franklin Resources common stock plus $100mm to be paid in cash 180 days after close. 3. Excludes $33 billion AUM of PanAgora, which is not a party to the transaction. Conference Call Information Executives from Franklin Templeton to lead a live teleconference today at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Access to the teleconference will be available via investors.franklinresources.com or by dialing (+1) 888-886-7786 in North America or (+1) 416-764-8658 in other locations using access code 59788741. A replay of the teleconference can also be accessed by calling (+1) 877-674-7070 in North America or (+1) 416-764-8692 in other locations using access code 788741# through Wednesday, June 7, 2023, or via investors.franklinresources.com. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) announced today that it reached an agreement with the Shasta County District Attorney under which criminal charges arising from the 2020 Zogg Fire will be dismissed. In its settlement agreement with the District Attorney's Office, which is subject to court approval, PG&E has committed to continue several initiatives to further reduce the risk of wildfires, and to fund $45 million in contributions to numerous organizations dedicated to rebuilding and assisting Shasta County communities. PG&E already has settled civil claims with individuals, families, organizations and Shasta County to provide compensation for damages from the Zogg Fire, which CAL FIRE determined was caused by a tree falling on a PG&E powerline. Today's agreement follows a Superior Court order dismissing over half of the 31 original criminal charges and a second, later, ruling tentatively dismissing all remaining felony charges. The court's tentative order noted there were multiple inspections in the area before the fire, that there was no evidence that PG&E's multiple inspections fell below the industry standard of care, and there also was no evidence that a risk involving the tree was visible before the fire. "The agreement reflects our continuing commitment to making it right and making it safe. We stand behind our thousands of trained and experienced coworkers and contractors working every day to keep Californians safe. We feel strongly that those good-faith judgments are not criminal," said Patti Poppe , Chief Executive Officer of PG&E Corporation. Poppe continued: "I'm grateful that the Shasta County District Attorney has agreed to work with us to make her community safer, and we look forward to the relationship this agreement creates." Highlights of commitments PG&E is making in Shasta County include: Wildfire Safety Local Vegetation Management : Implementing new systems for vegetation management work within High Fire-Risk Areas in Shasta County . : Implementing new systems for vegetation management work within High Fire-Risk Areas in . Additional Wildfire Safety : Additional commitments relating to wildfire safety include installation of line sensor devices that improve the ability to locate faults on circuits, completing an aerial LiDAR survey, installation of new weather stations, and adding artificial intelligence-based technology to existing wildfire cameras. : Additional commitments relating to wildfire safety include installation of line sensor devices that improve the ability to locate faults on circuits, completing an aerial LiDAR survey, installation of new weather stations, and adding artificial intelligence-based technology to existing wildfire cameras. Quarterly Meetings: PG&E and the Shasta County District Attorney's Office will meet quarterly to discuss ongoing wildfire safety measures in Shasta County. PG&E and the will meet quarterly to discuss ongoing wildfire safety measures in Shasta County. Monitor: These commitments and others will be subject to a five-year monitorship in Shasta County . The Monitor will be independent of PG&E and will regularly report to the Shasta District Attorney on the company's progress. Payments to Community and Nonprofit Organizations As part of PG&E's commitment to work with local organizations and communities, most of the $45 million that PG&E will pay as part of the settlement will go to local fire departments and districts, law enforcement, and community and nonprofit organizations to rebuild and strengthen the communities affected by the Zogg Fire and to honor the victims. In addition, PG&E will pay a $5 million civil penalty to Shasta County . The financial commitments stipulated in the agreement total $50 million , and PG&E will not seek cost recovery from customers. On Wednesday, Stellantis (NYSE: STLAM) and Vulcan Energy Resources, a lithium supplier listed in Australia, announced a new partnership with the objective to help the decarbonization of Stellantis' operations in Europe. In a joint statement, the two companies announced that the binding agreement covers the first phase of a project to develop new geothermal sources contributing to the energy supply of an industrial site in Mulhouse, eastern France, where Stellantis produces several Peugeot and DS models, including the fully-electric Peugeot e-308. Stellantis and Vulcan entered into a similar agreement earlier this year to collaborate on geothermal energy projects. The purpose of this collaboration was to support the production of electric vehicles at Stellantis' Russelsheim facility in Germany. "Geothermal is one of many solutions we are exploring to achieve our carbon net zero goal by 2038," Stellantis Chief Manufacturing Officer Arnaud Deboeuf said. The initial phase of the project, located in Vulcan's main area of interest in the Upper Rhine valley, will involve conducting a study to build geothermal renewable energy resources for the Mulhouse facility. Additionally, the assessment will explore the potential for lithium production. According to the companies, the renewable energy project, based on current assumptions, has the potential to meet a "significant portion" of the site's annual energy requirements starting from 2026. Stellantis and Vulcan have stated their intention to fund the development of the project on a 50-50 basis. They also mentioned their plan to explore the possibility of securing public funds in France to support the endeavor. Shares of STLA are down 1.33% in pre-market trading on Wednesday. By Michael Elkins | [email protected] Toyota (NYSE: TM) issued an apology Wednesday after the Japanese automaker announced an investigation into the May 12th data leak revealed that additional information on customers in some countries in Oceania and Asia, excluding Japan, may have been left publicly accessible from October 2016 to May 2023. As we believe that this incident was also caused by insufficient dissemination and enforcement of data handling rules, since our last announcement, we have implemented a system to monitor cloud configurations, Toyota said in a statement. Customer information that may have been accessible externally included names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and vehicle identification and registration numbers, the company said. This latest incident follows an announcement earlier this month that the vehicle data of 2.15 million users in Japan, almost all their customers who signed up for their main cloud service platforms since 2012, had been out in the open for a whole decade because of a human mistake. The company did not disclose how many customers were affected by this latest incident, in which countries they are located exactly, or whether customers of its luxury Lexus brand were affected. Toyota said it had also investigated whether there were any third-party copies or use of its customer data and found no evidence of such use, adding vehicle location and credit card information were not included in the incident. According to the spokesperson, the company initially discovered the incident by accident during inspections that began on April 7. The revelation was made public earlier this month. Shares of TM are up 0.20% in pre-market trading on Wednesday. By Michael Elkins | [email protected] Volkswagen Chief Operating Officer Ralf Brandstaetter said in an interview released Wednesday that the German automaker would not participate in a discount battle in China "at any price". "Volkswagen is focusing on a sustainable business model. In concrete terms, this means that we will not participate in the discount battle at any price," Brandstaetter said in an interview for the company's intranet. "Our market position is strong enough. For us, the focus is on profitability, not sales volume or market share," he added. Brandstaetter predicts that the Chinese car market will increase from its current 22 million to around 28 to 30 million by 2030. "If we achieve sales of more than 4 million vehicles in this environment in 2030, with corresponding profitability, that is a position we could very well live with," he said. Volkswagen aims to become the leading international automaker in China, regardless of whether another domestic manufacturer outsells them. Earlier this year, Chinese automaker BYD surpassed Volkswagen as the top-selling passenger car brand in the country, despite Volkswagen's long-standing dominance in the market. By Michael Elkins | [email protected] (Updated - June 1, 2023 8:49 AM EDT) Investing.com -- C3.ai (NYSE: AI) shares traded 20% lower in pre-market after the AI software firm offered weaker-than-expected guidance. The company also reported fiscal fourth-quarter results Wednesday that were better than feared as growing demand for enterprise AI applications bolstered new business wins. The AI software maker reported an adjusted loss of $0.13 on revenue of $72.4 million, topping estimates for a loss of $0.17 on revenue of $71.29M. The better-than-feared loss for the quarter comes as increasing market demand for enterprise AI led to a "substantial increase in opportunities and shorter sales cycles," the company said. In Q4, the company closed 43 agreements, including 19 pilots, with the number of qualified enterprise opportunities targeted for closure within 12 months in its sales pipeline more than doubling in the past year. The average sales cycle for agreements in Q4 was 3.7 months, down from 5 months a year earlier. Looking ahead to fiscal 2024, the company now expects an adjusted loss in a range of $50.0M to $75.0M on revenue of $295.0 to $320.0M. Analysts were looking for $317M in full-year sales. For fiscal Q1, adjusted losses from operations were guided in a range of $25.0M to $30M on revenue of between $70M to $72.5M. Analysts were forecasting Q1 revenue of $71.6M. Following the FQ4 earnings report, the AI stock earned both a downgrade and an upgrade. DA Davidson analyst Gil Luria cut the rating to Neutral from Buy following the recent run-up in shares. C3.ai stock is up more than 200% year to date, riding strong investor demand for artificial intelligence-linked stocks. "We believe C3.ai is on track for 2H24 acceleration based on momentum driven by generative AI demand, which is now more properly reflected in the share price," Luria wrote in a note. On the other hand, Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives upgraded the stock to Outperform from Neutral with the price target more than doubled to $50 per share. "While it will be a bumpy road, we believe c3 has turned a corner and is ready to now capitalize on the $800 billion AI transformational opportunity over the next decade with use cases increasing across the board and the company in a unique position to help lead the charge and monetize this looking ahead the next 12 to 18 months," Ives said. Additional reporting by Senad Karaahmetovic FILE PHOTO: Jamie Dimon, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of JPMorgan Chase & Co., gestures as he speaks during an interview with Reuters in Miami, Florida, U.S., February 8, 2023. REUTERS/Marco Bello (Reuters) -Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman said Jamie Dimon should run for president in the next U.S. elections after the JPMorgan Chase & Co CEO expressed his interest in pursuing a public office. "I love my country, and maybe one day I'll serve my country in one capacity or another," Dimon said in an interview with Bloomberg TV earlier on Wednesday, when asked if he would ever consider public office. Ackman called Dimon an "exemplary leader" and lauded him for having "superbly managed" JPMorgan through every crisis. "Our country is at risk with $32T (trillion) of debt with no end to massive deficits in sight, heading into a recession at a time of great political uncertainty," Ackman said in a tweet on Wednesday. "... Clearly he is thinking about running. I can't imagine a better time for him to do so," Ackman said. There have been speculations about Dimon's potential presidential run in the future. At a conference in 2018, he reportedly quipped about hypothetically campaigning against then-president Donald Trump. "I think I could beat Trump ... because I'm as tough as he is, I'm smarter than he is," he said, according to a report. Dimon later walked back on those comments, saying that the remark proved he would not make a good politician. "If he decides to get out of banking, I think he would be really good in politics," former President Bill Clinton once said of Dimon. A spokesperson for JPMorgan declined to comment. Dimon is currently on his first visit to China since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ackman, who runs Pershing Square Capital Management and has a bulging Rolodex filled with Wall Street bankers, corporate executives and politicians, has been using Twitter more extensively ever since he announced last year that he was retiring from "vocal" activist investing life. He has most recently weighed in on the banking crisis and urged the United States to raise FDIC insurance to shore up confidence. In the 2016 presidential election, Ackman had urged former New York City Mayor and billionaire Michael Bloomberg to run for president. (Reporting by Niket Nishant in Bengaluru and Svea Herbst-Bayliss in New York; additional reporting by Jaiveer Shekhawat in Bengaluru Editing by Anil D'Silva) Moldova's Supreme Court of Justice on Wednesday extended the ban on leaving the country imposed on ex-president Igor Dodon by 60 days. Dodon's lawyers had insisted that the restriction on the ex-president be lifted. However, the judges of the Supreme Court of Justice of Moldova upheld the prosecutors' motion and extended the restriction on leaving the country, ruling that judicial control on Dodon should stay in place. Dodon was arrested on May 24, 2022, on counts of passive corruption, bribery, and the organization and acceptance of party funding from a criminal network in June 2019 when he was Moldovan president. The case against Dodon was based on a video that featured him taking a black bag from Democratic Party Chairman Vlad Plahotniuc in 2019. Prosecutors said Dodon may have received $600,000 to $1 million in funding for the Party of Socialists. The former president was released from house arrest by the Supreme Judicial Panel on November 18, 2022. The court prohibited him from leaving Moldova. The ban has been regularly extended by court since then. FILE PHOTO: Customers wait outside as an employee enters the Silicon Valley Bank branch office in downtown San Francisco, California, U.S., March 13, 2023. REUTERS/Kori Suzuki/File Photo By Pete Schroeder WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. banks saw total deposits decline by a record 2.5% in the first quarter of 2023, and industry-wide profits were relatively flat after taking into account the effects of two large bank failures, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation said Wednesday. The FDIC said the $472 billion in deposit outflows in the first quarter was the largest it had recorded since it began collecting such data in 1984. The decline was primarily from uninsured funds, as insured deposits actually rose $255.1 billion, or 2.5%, amid the failures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. The decline in deposits was offset by increased wholesale funding, which rose 14.4% in the first quarter. Wednesday's report marks the most comprehensive view of the banking industry's health since those two failures helped set off wider turmoil across the sector, including the May seizure of First Republic Bank. Following the report's release, the S&P 500 bank index was down 2.6% having hit its lowest point in about two weeks and eyeing its biggest one-day percentage drop since early May. The biggest decliners included Comerica, Keycorp and Citizens Financial. FDIC Chairman Martin Gruenberg said that while the industry remains "resilient," the fuller impact of the turmoil may not be seen until the agency reports its second quarter results. He also noted the sector continues to face other risks stemming from inflation, rising rates, and economic pressure, particularly in areas like commercial real estate. The FDIC said bank profits were technically up 16.9% to $79.8 billion in the first quarter of the year, but profit levels were effectively flat after taking into consideration the accounting impact of the acquisition of those two failed firms. The results showed banks shrinking the amount of unrealized losses on their books and maintaining strong capital ratios. But it also found deposit outflows for the fourth straight quarter and accelerating, and the FDIC placed four new firms on its "problem bank list," which now includes 43 firms with a total of $58 billion in assets. Gruenberg noted that even flat profit levels are still high by historical standards, and was boosted by record trading revenue by large banks and strong growth in non-interest income. (Reporting by Pete Schroeder and Sinead Carew, Editing by Nick Zieminski) VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 30, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aequus Pharmaceuticals Inc. (TSX-V: AQS, OTCQB: AQSZF) (Aequus or the Company), a specialty pharmaceutical company with a focus on developing, advancing and promoting differentiated products, today reported financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 (First Quarter 2023) and associated Company developments. Unless otherwise noted, all figures are in Canadian currency. With the upcoming launch of ZIMED PF expected in August of 2023, Q1 and Q2 2023 has seen a focus on building our distribution commercial infrastructure with a focus on training, pre-launch communication and HCP education activities, said Doug Janzen, Chairman and CEO. As anticipated, revenues for the quarter were reduced due to the completion of the Sandoz contract at the end of last year. However, we are pleased to see the excellent momentum with our Dry Eye e-commerce platform as Q1 sales of the Evolve line more than doubled compared the same quarter last year. This performance is a testament to our commercial model and the breadth of our teams footprint and commitment in eyecare. Commercial Update - ZIMED PF Pre-Launch The Company continues to work toward building its pipeline of products in ophthalmology and optometry with the December 2022 regulatory approval of ZIMED PF. The promotional services contracts for both Tacrolimus and Vistitan expired at year-end 2022, creating a gap in revenue till the launch of Zimed PF, scheduled for August 2023. Aequus has taken the appropriate steps to minimize non-essential spending, reduce overhead, while executing pre-launch activities for Zimed and pursuing partnership relationships to complement our portfolio of products and utilize our teams expertise. Improved CRM and KOL programs, advanced digital marketing capabilities, prelaunch educational programs for HCPs and additional business development resources, will all add to our sale acceleration and portfolio expansion in the later half of 2023. Financial Update Aequus recorded a net loss of $744,323 for the three months ended March 31, 2023, which is 19% lower than the loss of $916,886 for the period ending March 31, 2022. The decrease in net loss was mainly due to a decrease of $413,413, or 34% in expenses offset by the reduction of $239,239 in gross income due to the end of the promotional services agreement with Sandoz. During the three months ended March 31, 2023, the Company continued development activities related to bringing ZIMED PF through regulatory approval, and as a result, the related expenses in research and development (or R&D) was $201,361 (March 31, 2022- $246,107). The Company realized a 132% increase in Evolve product sales during the three months ended March 31, 2023, relative to the prior year. The Company recognized $92,251 from 3 months of Evolve product sales during 2023 compared to $39,760 for 3 months of Evolve product sales during the three months ended March 31, 2022. ABOUT AEQUUS PHARMACEUTICALS INC. Aequus Pharmaceuticals Inc. (TSX-V: AQS, OTCQB: AQSZF) is a growing specialty pharmaceutical company focused on developing and commercializing high quality, differentiated products. Aequus has grown its sales and marketing efforts to include several commercial products in ophthalmology and transplant. Aequus plans to build on its Canadian commercial platform through the launch of additional products that are either created internally or brought in through an acquisition or license; remaining focused on highly specialized therapeutic areas. For further information, please visit www.aequuspharma.ca. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT DISCLAIMER This release may contain forward-looking statements or forward-looking information under applicable Canadian securities legislation that may not be based on historical fact, including, without limitation, statements containing the words believe, may, plan, will, estimate, continue, anticipate, intend, expect, potential and similar expressions. Forward- looking statements are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as the factors we believe are appropriate. Forward-looking statements include but are not limited to statements relating to: the implementation of our business model and strategic plans; revenue growth trends into the future; expected timing for product launches; the Companys expected revenues; the regulatory approval of its products; the Companys ability to attract international partners; and ongoing discussions with and the Companys ability to secure potential partners to further grow our product portfolio. Such statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties and are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Aequus, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In making the forward looking statements included in this release, the Company has made various material assumptions, including, but not limited to: obtaining regulatory approvals; general business and economic conditions; the Companys ability to successfully sell its current products and in-license new products; the assumption that the Companys current good relationships with third parties will be maintained; the availability of financing on reasonable terms; the Companys ability to attract and retain skilled staff; market competition; the products and technology offered by the Companys competitors; the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on the Companys operations; and the Companys ability to protect patents and proprietary rights. In evaluating forward looking statements, current and prospective shareholders should specifically consider various factors set out herein and under the heading Risk Factors in the Companys Annual Information Form dated May 1, 2023, a copy of which is available on Aequus profile on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com, and as otherwise disclosed from time to time on Aequus SEDAR profile. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties, or a risk that is not currently known to us materialize, or should assumptions underlying those forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and we do not intend, and do not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are inherently uncertain. Accordingly, investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward looking statements. CONTACT INFORMATION Aequus Investor Relations Email: [email protected] Phone: 604-336-7906 Source: Aequus Pharmaceuticals Lee, MA, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Berkshire Sterile Manufacturing (BSM), a fill finish CDMO based in Lee, MA, was recently awarded over $230,000 in training funds from the Massachusetts WorkForce Training Fund Program (WTFP). The grant will be used to train over 25% of its workforce in quality and productivity solutions over the next two years. The state of Massachusetts offers several training grants to help address business productivity and competitiveness by providing resources to small to medium size businesses. BSM applied for a grant from WTFP and was recently awarded over $230,000 to be used at Quality and Productivity Solutions (QPS), a Massachusetts consulting and training firm. BSMs employees have fueled our growth, innovation, and success, said Dawn Milesi, Senior Human Resources Manager at BSM. We are thrilled to have secured this grant to invest in our people and to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive the companys success and continued growth. QPS offers over 250 courses in quality consulting and training to help employees develop hard skills, such as FDA and regulatory compliance guidelines, and soft skills like problem solving, meeting management, and advanced writing skills. BSM has started training employees in problem solving, reducing errors, corrective action, and root cause analysis. Currently, 54 employees are participating in a in four-week training session. The grant will be used to pay for training fees, materials, and to subsidize the employees time while they are training. It is our mission to deliver exceptional drug products while maintaining the highest levels of quality, sterility assurance, and regulatory compliance, said BSM Vice President of Quality Assurance, Debbie Smith. These grants will allow us to further develop our employees to ensure that we remain at the forefront of industry standards and maintain a culture of sustainable compliance. About Berkshire Sterile Manufacturing: Berkshire Sterile is a state-of-the-art fill finish contract manufacturer that is specialized in sterile filling of vials, syringes, and cartridges for biotech and pharmaceutical industries. BSM also offers terminal steam sterilization, specialty filling, and lyophilization of vials all within isolators. Analytical support, stability studies, lyophilization development, formulation development, and method development are also offered. For more information, please visit the companys website (https://berkshiresterilemanufacturing.com/) or contact them at [email protected] Attachment Jersey City, NJ, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BitMart, the premier global digital asset trading platform, is pleased to announce the official launch of its new trading platform in Hong Kong to continue serving local institutional and retail investors. The BitMart Hong Kong (HK) aspires to establish itself as a leader in the digital asset landscape in Hong Kong, offering diversified trading solutions to experienced traders and newcomers venturing into the realm of cryptocurrencies. Currently, BitMart Hong Kong (HK) supports spot trading of prominent digital assets, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC). Furthermore, it aims to extend the capabilities of BitMart Hong Kong (HK) by introducing new services that will provide retail and institutional clients with a broader range of trading possibilities. Starting from day one, BitMart has always been committed to upholding the compliance standards of its trading platform operations. BitMart has maintained a substantial presence and provided trading services to users in Hong Kong since the year of 2018. With the new regulation coming in effect on June 1, 2023, BitMart shall continue its operation under the transitional arrangement while getting ready to embrace the robust regulatory regime by submitting the Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license application to SFC promptly. Security, regulation, anti-money laundering, and compliance stand as integral principles and benchmarks deeply valued by BitMart. Hong Kong has emerged as a prominent destination for the cryptocurrency industry in recent years. By introducing the new Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) system, the Hong Kong government has successfully established a robust regulatory framework and conducive environment, positioning Hong Kong as a leading global hub for digital assets. Sheldon Xia, the Founder and CEO of BitMart, expressed, "The primary objective of BitMart Hong Kong (HK) is to provide users with a secure and compliant trading environment. We are resolute in adhering to the regulatory standards set forth by the Hong Kong authorities, actively contributing to the growth and advancement of Hong Kong's digital asset industry. Our collaborations with distinguished professionals and our unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability will solidify BitMart Hong Kong (HK) as a trusted platform for users seeking reliable and compliant trading services." Notably, BitMart has engaged the expertise of a professional consulting team in Hong Kong, which includes former government officials from the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), to provide compliance consulting services for its Hong Kong operation. The platform will meticulously align its operations with the rules and policies stipulated by the Hong Kong SFC under the new regulatory regime. About BitMart Hong Kong (HK) BitMart Hong Kong (HK) is a digital asset trading platform exclusively catering to users in Hong Kong. As a subsidiary of BitMart, the platform firmly believes that decentralized digital assets hold the power to fundamentally reshape the global financial ecosystem, fostering more efficient asset circulation, equitable resource allocation, and transparent transaction processes. BitMart Hong Kong (HK) diligently adheres to regulatory standards, prioritizing the security of user funds, implementing robust anti-money laundering policies, and demonstrating unwavering compliance capabilities. Source: BitMart Exchange SAN JOSE, Calif., May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (NYSE: CWT)California Water Service (Cal Water) has been ranked highest in overall customer satisfaction among large water utilities in the western United States, in the J.D. Power 2023 Water Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction StudySM. The results, which recognize the top-ranking large utility and midsize utility in four U.S. regions, were based on survey responses collected from residential water utility customers in four waves from June 2022 through March 2023. The overall ranking was measured by examining 33 attributes across six study factors: quality and reliability, price, conservation, billing and payment, communications, and customer service. Beyond the overall ranking, the company was also No. 1 in the western large segment for each of the six factors analyzed. We work day in and day out to provide a reliable and affordable supply of safe, clean water to our customers; provide excellent customer service; and enhance the quality of life in the communities we serve, said Martin A. Kropelnicki, President and CEO. While we believe this is simply part of our mantra to always do the right thing, we are honored that our customers believe in us and provided this positive feedback. Our team will remain dedicated to fulfilling our promise to provide quality, service, and value to our customers and communities. This is the eighth year J.D. Power has conducted a residential customer satisfaction study for water utilities. The study ranked U.S. water utilities serving a population of at least 400,000 residents by analyzing about 33,000 customer interviews. Utilities were categorized into the Midwest, Northeast, South, and West geographic regions. About California Water ServiceCalifornia Water Service provides high-quality, reliable water utility services to about 2 million people statewide through 496,400 service connections. What sets Cal Water apart is its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its customers and communities. Guided daily by their promise to provide quality, service, and value, the utilitys employees lead the way in working to protect the planet, care for people, and operate with the utmost integrity. Integral to Cal Waters strategy is investing responsibly in infrastructure, sustainability initiatives, and community well-being. The utility has also been named one of Americas Most Responsible Companies and Americas Most Trustworthy Companies by Newsweek and a Great Place to Work. More information is available at www.calwater.com. About J.D. PowerJ.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. A pioneer in the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic modeling capabilities to understand consumer behavior, J.D. Power has been delivering incisive industry intelligence on customer interactions with brands and products for more than 50 years. The world's leading businesses across major industries rely on J.D. Power to guide their customer-facing strategies. J.D. Power has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the companys business offerings, visit JDPower.com/business. The J.D. Power auto shopping tool can be found at JDPower.com. Contact: Yvonne Kingman, 310-257-1434 Source: California Water Service Group LEVIS, Quebec, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Davie Shipbuilding Canada Inc. (Davie) and the Societe des traversiers du Quebec (STQ) are proud to report that the MV Felix-Antoine-Savard has been delivered to the STQ. The ferry operates between LIsle-aux-Coudres and Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive. Repairs on the vessel required over 30,000 hours of work, and the replacement of 28 tons of steel. Davie crews worked tirelessly round-the-clock, seven days a week, to repair the MV Felix-Antoine-Savard as quickly as possible so that it could be put back into service for the people of LIsle-aux-Coudres. This constant rotation of work considerably shortened the ships dry-docking period, thereby reducing the initially scheduled repair time by about 10 days. Completion of the project was incident-free, a clear indication that Davies teams applied rigorous preventive measures throughout these particularly complex repairs. I am proud of the thoroughness and professionalism demonstrated by our teams throughout the repair process on the MV Felix-Antoine-Savard, said Mr. James Davies, President and CEO of Davie. Our employees worked with a real sense of urgency to meet the expectations of the Societe des traversiers du Quebec and the people of LIsle-aux-Coudres. We are very pleased with the cooperation between the STQ and Davie, and with the work carried out by the teams to bring the MV Felix-Antoine-Savard back into service as quickly as possible. As promised, the vessel will be able to head back to LIsle-aux-Coudres-Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive crossing in the coming days. Once again, I would like to thank Davie and the STQ teams for all their hard work, added Greta Bedard, President and CEO of the STQ. Upon the STQs request, Davie carried out additional work besides the necessary repairs, such as the restoration of the stern thruster, complete replacement of the davit and superstructure repairs. About Davie Shipbuilding Canada Inc. Based in Levis, Quebec, Davie is Canadas premier shipbuilder and a global leader in the delivery of specialist, mission-critical vessels to government and commercial customers. Founded in 1825, Davie is Canadas longest-established, largest and highest capacity shipbuilder. Our world-class workforce builds and sustains complex ships that enable our customers to protect national and economic security or fulfil acute business needs. Find out more at davie.ca. For more information, please visit davie.ca. For more information: Marcel PoulinDirector, External Affairs and Industrial Participation, Davie+1 581 992-8564 Simon LaboissonniereHead of Communications, Societe des traversiers du Quebec+1 887 787-7483 ext. 2627 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9f286cbb-bd19-4718-a665-3b23cfde1bb8 Delivery - MV Felix-Antoine Savard Delivery - MV Felix-Antoine Savard Source: Davie Shipbuilding New York, NY, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Davos Alzheimers Collaborative (DAC) will hold the fourth meeting of its Healthcare System Preparedness Learning Laboratory The Power of Technology in Alzheimers Early Detection: A Roadmap for Global Implementation, June 21 from 8:00-9:30am EDT. Alzheimers experts from global patient advocacy, research, policy, tech / biotech organizations convened by the Davos Alzheimers Collaborative: David BatesLinus Health Simon NjugunaMinistry of Health, Kenya Joel BraunsteinC2N Diagnostics Brad OConnorCogstate Hilary EvansAlzheimers Research UK; Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Mission Tom ONeillCognivue Phyllis FerrellDavos Alzheimers Collaborative; Eli Lilly & Company Mark RoithmayrAlzheimers Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) Kristine GalstyanMinistry of Health, Armenia Daniel SoranzMinistry of Health, Brazil Tim MacLeodDavos Alzheimers Collaborative George VradenburgDavos Alzheimers Collaborative Kristina MalzbenderGates Ventures Kosuke WadaMinistry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan Policy, advocacy, research, tech and biotech experts will present the latest findings from current research initiatives pioneering the adoption of Alzheimers early detection technologies into clinical practice, as well as address policy challenges, implications and opportunities for global implementation and adoption. Speakers will review the diagnostic and policy environment, share insights and results from deploying early detection technologies including digital cognitive assessments and blood based biomarkers in healthcare settings across 7 countries around the world, and discuss the need and opportunity for global policy transformation to increase timely detection of cognitive impairment. Specific topics include: What the Davos Alzheimers Collaborative and 19 key program partners across 12 countries have learned so far about enabling early detection using digital cognitive assessments and blood-based biomarkers in primary care and how this differs across high medium and low-resources countries and healthcare settings. How demonstration projects for timely detection of cognitive impairment have elicited key learnings and opportunities for further implementation, integration and adoption. WHERE: Zoom; Please register using this link: http://bitly.ws/DhKM WHEN: Wednesday, June 21, 2023, 8:00am-9:30am EDT WHY: The Davos Alzheimers Collaborative (DAC) is a global effort to spark genuine collaboration among scientists, healthcare providers, government health ministers, philanthropists and corporate leaders, to speed innovation and stop Alzheimers disease. Launched at the World Economic Forums 2021 meeting on The Davos Agenda, the Collaborative is committed to a new vision for a collective global response against the challenges Alzheimers presents to patients, caregivers and healthcare systems. The DAC Healthcare System Preparedness Learning Laboratory convenes national public health, policy and research organizations, and industry from high, medium, and low resource settings, to share learnings from Alzheimers research initiatives aimed at common operational challenges in healthcare system preparedness. Through a series of convenings of the DAC Healthcare System Preparedness Learning Laboratory, these representatives will be able to engage with, inform, and learn from shared projects regarding how best to introduce new methods into their operational systems. Advance media interviews available. Contact Susan Oliver: [email protected]. To learn more about DAC visit: davosalzheimerscollaborative.org Susan Oliver Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative 703-216-4078 [email protected] Source: Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative Alzheimers Experts Share Insights from Deploying Alzheimers Timely Detection Technologies Around the World at Virtual Learning Laboratory New York, NY, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Davos Alzheimers Collaborative (DAC) will hold the fourth meeting of its Healthcare System Preparedness Learning Laboratory The Power of Technology in Alzheimers Early Detection: A Roadmap for Global Implementation, June 21 from 8:00-9:30am EDT. Alzheimers experts from global patient advocacy, research, policy, tech / biotech organizations convened by the Davos Alzheimers Collaborative: David Bates Linus Health Simon Njuguna Ministry of Health, Kenya Joel Braunstein C 2 N Diagnostics Brad OConnor Cogstate Hilary Evans Alzheimers Research UK; Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Mission Tom ONeill Cognivue Phyllis Ferrell Davos Alzheimers Collaborative; Eli Lilly & Company Mark Roithmayr Alzheimers Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) Kristine Galstyan Ministry of Health, Armenia Daniel Soranz Ministry of Health, Brazil Tim MacLeod Davos Alzheimers Collaborative George Vradenburg Davos Alzheimers Collaborative Kristina Malzbender Gates Ventures Kosuke Wada Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan Policy, advocacy, research, tech and biotech experts will present the latest findings from current research initiatives pioneering the adoption of Alzheimers early detection technologies into clinical practice, as well as address policy challenges, implications and opportunities for global implementation and adoption. Speakers will review the diagnostic and policy environment, share insights and results from deploying early detection technologies including digital cognitive assessments and blood based biomarkers in healthcare settings across 7 countries around the world, and discuss the need and opportunity for global policy transformation to increase timely detection of cognitive impairment. Specific topics include: What the Davos Alzheimers Collaborative and 19 key program partners across 12 countries have learned so far about enabling early detection using digital cognitive assessments and blood-based biomarkers in primary care and how this differs across high medium and low-resources countries and healthcare settings. How demonstration projects for timely detection of cognitive impairment have elicited key learnings and opportunities for further implementation, integration and adoption. WHERE: Zoom; Please register using this link: http://bitly.ws/DhKM WHEN: Wednesday, June 21, 2023, 8:00am-9:30am EDT WHY: The Davos Alzheimers Collaborative (DAC) is a global effort to spark genuine collaboration among scientists, healthcare providers, government health ministers, philanthropists and corporate leaders, to speed innovation and stop Alzheimers disease. Launched at the World Economic Forums 2021 meeting on The Davos Agenda, the Collaborative is committed to a new vision for a collective global response against the challenges Alzheimers presents to patients, caregivers and healthcare systems. The DAC Healthcare System Preparedness Learning Laboratory convenes national public health, policy and research organizations, and industry from high, medium, and low resource settings, to share learnings from Alzheimers research initiatives aimed at common operational challenges in healthcare system preparedness. Through a series of convenings of the DAC Healthcare System Preparedness Learning Laboratory, these representatives will be able to engage with, inform, and learn from shared projects regarding how best to introduce new methods into their operational systems. Company announcement 8/2023 (31.05.2023) In the first quarter of 2023 several milestones have been achieved by European Energy, as the company passed 1 GW of owned assets, got an unprecedented number of renewable energy project permits and signed an agreement with Novo Nordisk and the LEGO Group to supply e-methanol to be used in some future plastic production.. Throughout the first quarter of 2023, European Energy has successfully ensured the roll-out of various renewable energy initiatives. One result was that the highest number of new project authorisations in a single quarter was secured. In three months, 1 GW of renewable energy permits has been secured across several key markets. At the same time, European Energy has successfully grid-connected 182 MW of projects during the quarter compared to 69 MW in Q1 22. For the first six months of 2023, European Energy is expecting to grid connect more than 500 MW of new production capacity. European Energy also had progress within the field of green hydrogen and Power-to-X technologies. The company signed an agreement with Novo Nordisk and the LEGO Group to supply e-methanol to be used in some future plastic production. With the two new contracts and the previously entered contracts with Mrsk and Circle K the full production volume from the Kass e-methanol facility has been contracted. The beginning of 2023 has also marked a return to a less volatile energy market following the conditions experienced in 2022. In its Q1 2023 report, European Energy reveals a revenue of EUR 43m, EBITDA of EUR 13m, and a profit before tax of EUR 1m. The EBITDA for Q1 of EUR 13m reflects that there have only been minor divestments from the company in the quarter. Hence, the energy production capacity of European Energy reached a record high volume. In Q1 23, European Energy achieved over one GW of renewable energy capacity in owned assets, resulting in over 368 GWh of electricity generation, equivalent to the consumption of more than 360,000 households over a three-month period. The record number of grid connections improved the inventory of operational parks to a level of EUR 597m, compared to Q1 2022 with only EUR 70m. The 8.5 times more capacity will generate substantial power sales for the coming quarters, which we will also welcome as our contribution to fighting climate change. European Energy has several ongoing divestment processes and is confident to complete these endeavors later this year. Based on these positive trends, European Energy is confident in meeting its full-year guidance, projecting an EBITDA of EUR 180 million and profit before tax of EUR 140 million. For further information, please contact Investor Relations: [email protected] This Company Announcement has been made in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 on market abuse (the Market Abuse Regulation) and contains information that prior to its disclosure may have constituted inside information under the Market Abuse Regulation. Attachment It is extremely powerful when Indigenous Peoples unite. Lynne Groulx, NWAC CEO OTTAWA, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- During an eight-day visit to El Salvador last week, Native Womens Association of Canadas (NWAC) CEO Lynne Groulx signed a ground-breaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between NWAC and the General Secretariat of the Central American Integration System (SG-SICA). In doing so, Ms. Groulx has advanced international relationships that will benefit Indigenous Peoples by supporting cultural and economic exchange across the Americas. We broke important barriers. We havent been talking enough as Indigenous Peoples across the national boundaries established through colonization. It is extremely powerful when Indigenous Peoples unite, Ms. Groulx said, commenting on the momentous outcomes of this Indigenous diplomatic mission. The landmark MOU focuses on Indigenous priorities championed by NWAC such as womens empowerment, economic justice, opportunities for trade and economic sustainability, and conservation and balance with nature. To achieve these goals, the agreement acknowledges the need to promote and strengthen cooperative relations between Canada and the Central American Integration System (SICA). An agreement of this magnitude opens doors, fast-tracking NWACs ability to implement the priorities set out in the agreement, which will have far reaching benefits for Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit, transgender, and gender-diverse+ (WG2STGD+) peoples across the Americas. More than 60 different groups, approximately 20-percent of the total population of Central America, make up the Indigenous Peoples represented within the SICAs eight member states: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, and the Dominican Republic. The SICA is a governance body composed of the presidents of each of the member nations, that aspires to integrate Central America as a region focused on peace, freedom, democracy, and development. Ms. Groulx will begin taking action to implement the terms of the MOU with visits to each of the SICA member countries. Along with signing the historic MOU, the broader objective of Ms. Groulxs trip to El Salvador was to build relationships big and small. While there, Ms. Groulx was invited to meet with El Salvador Vice-President Felix Ulloa to discuss trade between Indigenous Peoples, expanding business opportunities and building cultural exchanges. As well, Ms. Groulx developed new relationships with local Indigenous women artists, artisans, and entrepreneurs, returning home with spectacular artwork and textiles for NWACs Sisters in Spirit Americas Collection. She also met with the Women in Coffee Association of El Salvador (AMCES) and the Salvadorian Coffee Council (CSC). This chance to exchange knowledge and explore trade relationships comes at an opportune time, as NWAC is on the cusp of releasing its own coffee line, with all profits going back to supporting NWACs programs for Indigenous WG2STGD+ people. Reflecting on the international relationships NWAC is cultivating, Ms. Groulx notes that this is a renewal of Indigenous relationships that were previously the norm across the Americas. There is an Inca prophecy that tells us that When the Eagle of the North flies with the Condor of the South, the spirit of the land she will re-awaken, says Ms. Groulx, and Indigenous Peoples have been envisioning and awaiting - this resurgence for a long time. Ms. Groulx was accompanied on this Indigenous diplomatic mission to El Salvador by Salvadorian Ambassador Ricardo Cisneros and Ms. Tania Molina, NWACs International Director. The successful outcomes are the result of a year of international relationship building that continues to position NWAC as a leading voice advocating for Indigenous rights and well-being on an international stage. For information, or to arrange an interview, contact: Roselie LeBlanc at [email protected] or 604-928-3233. Source: Native Womens Association of Canada BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The US is ready to support Azerbaijan in further increasing energy supplies to Europe, Assistant Secretary of State of the US State Bureau of Energy Resources Geoffrey Pyatt at at the opening ceremony of the Baku Energy Week, Trend reports. "For over three decades, the US and Azerbaijan have enjoyed a long-standing partnership. The United States remains committed to the stability, prosperity and independence of the countries of the South Caucuses," he said. According to Pyatt, Azerbaijan has been a consistent partner in advancing energy security in the region and beyond. "The US looks foreword to developing the ongoing cooperation with Azerbaijan and to developing reliable energy sources, which also reduce or capture green house emissions," he added. LOS ANGELES, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Irwin Naturals Inc. (CSE: IWIN) (OTC: IWINF) (FRA: 97X) (Irwin or the Company) today reported its financial results for the first quarter and year ended March 31, 2023, on www.sedar.com. Financial Highlights for Q1 2023 (all comparisons are for the year ended December 31 unless otherwise indicated): Q1 2023 revenue was $22.5 million, down 0.4% from $22.6 million in Q1 2022. Income from operations decreased $4.0 million from $2.5 million in Q1 2022 to a loss of $1.5 million in Q1 2023. The decrease is primarily attributed to the continued startup costs related to the Companys 2022 and 2023 Acquisitions at Irwin Naturals Emergence (the company acquired 13 mental health clinics and one advertising platform) and Irwin Naturals Cannabis (intellectual property licensing to the cannabis industry). Q1 2023 net loss of $7.7 million includes $6.5 million of impairment charges related to the 2022 Acquisitions. Financial Highlights for Q1 2023 and Year to Date 2023 Secured a credit facility as of February 1, 2023 with its existing commercial lender for $40 million, with the potential of being up to $60 million. Completed the acquisition of Serenity Health, LLC, one of the leading ketamine clinics in Louisville, KY on February 17, 2023. Announced the successful acquisition of Keta Media, LLC, dba Ketamine Media, the nation's foremost advertising company dedicated to raising awareness about the clinical use of ketamine, on March 17, 2023. Operational Highlights Irwin Naturals has commenced its expansion into the high-growth cannabis and psychedelics sectors. During the first quarter of 2023, the Company launched the first products to the continental cannabis market and has signed ten brand licensing deals that will see Irwin Naturals products enhanced with THC be offered in places like California, Colorado, Mississippi, Michigan, New Mexico, Oregon, Oklahoma, and Canada. Additionally, to date, the Company has announced the acquisition of thirteen clinics and one advertising company specializing in ketamine clinics. The Company will continue to build upon this solid foundation and make the necessary investments to support our growth objectives within the psychedelics sector. Sean Sand, CFO, stated, During the first quarter of 2023, we launched the first products related to our licensing in our cannabis sectors. We expanded our mental health clinics footprint in Kentucky through an acquisition and acquired an advertising platform to expand our customer outreach at our mental health clinics. About Irwin Naturals Irwin Naturals has been a household name and best-in-class nutraceutical company since 1994. It is now leveraging its brand into both the cannabis and psychedelic sectors. On a mission to heal the world with plant medicine, Irwin has operated its nutraceutical business profitably for over 28 years. The growing portfolio of products is available in more than 100,000 retail doors across North America, where 80% of households know the Irwin Naturals brand. In 2018, the Company first leveraged its brand to expand into the cannabis industry by launching hemp-based CBD products into the mass market. The Company is now leveraging its famous halo of brand trust to become, perhaps, the first household name brand to offer THC-based products. Its rapidly growing national chain of psychedelic mental health clinics is called Irwin Naturals Emergence. For investor-related information about the Company, please visit ir.irwinnaturals.com/. To contact the Companys Investor Relations department, please call toll-free at (800) 883-4851 or send an email to [email protected]. Klee Irwin________________________________Klee IrwinChief Executive OfficerT: 310-306-3636[email protected] Regulatory Overview The following is a brief summary of regulatory matters concerning ketamine in the United States (US). Under the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 811) (the "CSA"), ketamine is currently a Schedule III drug as well as being listed under the associated Narcotic Control Regulations, and psilocybin is currently a Schedule I drug. Most US States have enacted Controlled Substances Acts (State CSAs) which regulate the possession, use, sale, distribution, and manufacture of specified drugs or categories of drugs and establish penalties for State CSA violations and form the basis for much state and local drug laws enforcement activity. State CSAs have either adopted drug schedules identical or similar to the federal CSA schedules or, in some instances, have incorporated the federal scheduling mechanism. Among other requirements, some US States have established a prescription drug monitoring or review programs collect information about prescription and dispensing of controlled substances for the purposes of monitoring, analysis and education. In the United States, facilities holding or administering controlled substances must be registered with the US Drug Enforcement Agency ("DEA") to perform this activity. As such, medical professionals and/or the clinics in which they operate, as applicable, are also required to have a DEA license to obtain and administer ketamine (a "DEA License"). While ketamine is a controlled substance in the United States, it is approved for general anesthetic induction under the US Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Once a drug is approved for use, physicians may prescribe that drug for uses that are not described in the products labelling or that differ from those tested by the manufacturer and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (the "FDA"). Licensed medical practitioners may prescribe ketamine legally in Canada or the United States where they believe it will be an effective treatment in their professional judgment. Please see Irwins filing statement on its SEDAR profile for more information on the regulatory environment and regulations surrounding the US THC industry. Forward-Looking Information This news release contains certain forward-looking statements that reflect the current views and/or expectations of management of the Company with respect to performance, business and future events. Forward-looking statements can often be identified by words such as "may", "will", "would", "could", "should", "believes", "estimates", "projects", "potential", "expects", "plans", "intends", "anticipates", "targeted", "continues", "forecasts", "designed", "goal", or the negative of those words or other similar or comparable words. Forward-looking statements are based on the then-current expectations, beliefs, assumptions, estimates and forecasts about the business and the industry and markets in which the Company operates. The Company does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions for updating any voluntary forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable securities law. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: Irwin Naturals, Inc. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA - Reconciliation The Company defines EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as per the table below. It should be noted that these performance measures are not defined under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures used by other entities. The Company believes that these measures are useful financial metrics as they assist in determining the ability to generate cash from operations. Investors should be cautioned that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA should not be construed as an alternative to net earnings or cash flows as determined under IFRS. The reconciling items between net earnings, EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA are as follows: Three Months Ended March 31 (in thousands) 2023 2022 $ Change % Change Statement of Profit Net (loss) income $ (7,698 ) $ 1,581 $ (9,279 ) (100.0 +) Interest expense, net 511 249 262 100.0 + Income taxes (recovery) (639 ) 696 (1,335 ) (100.0 +) Depreciation and amortization 769 405 364 89.9 EBITDA (7,057 ) 2,931 (9,998 ) (100.0 +) Foreign currency translation adjustments 18 4 14 100.0 + Gain on contingent consideration (390 ) (390 ) (100.0 ) Intangible assets impairment 3,739 3,737 100.0 Goodwill impairment 2,810 2,810 100.0 Adjusted EBITDA $ (880 ) $ 2,935 $ (3,815 ) (100.0 +) Irwin Naturals, Inc.Consolidated Statements of Financial PositionAs of December 31, 2022 and 2021(Expressed in US Dollars, rounded in thousands except share data) March 31,2023 December 31,2022 ASSETS Current assets: Cash $ 6,529 $ 800 Trade receivables, net 16,347 21,311 Inventory 21,671 22,506 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 3,344 2,932 Total current assets 47,891 47,549 Non-current assets: Property and equipment, net 353 271 Right-of-use assets 4,741 4,194 Notes receivable from shareholders 6,935 6,014 Notes receivable from related parties 505 255 Goodwill 21,190 10,215 Intangible assets, net 6,160 7,677 Deferred tax asset 2,367 2,367 Other non-current assets 277 259 Total non-current assets 42,528 31,252 TOTAL ASSETS $ 90,419 $ 78,801 LIABILITIES Current liabilities: Trade and other payables $ 13,747 $ 17,997 Reserve for returns 1,891 2,036 Lease liabilities, current 1,495 1,817 Line of credit, net of debt issuance costs 26,373 16,448 Notes payable due to acquiree 5,500 Notes payable, current 45 36 Total current liabilities 49,051 38,334 Non-current liabilities: Lease liabilities, non-current 3,431 2,529 Notes payable, non-current 656 498 Contingent consideration 5,764 6,154 Notes payable due to acquiree 7,000 Deferred tax liability 983 983 Total non-current liabilities 17,834 10,164 TOTAL LIABILTIES $ 66,885 $ 48,498 EQUITY AND NONCONTROLLING INTEREST Class B Shares, 320,000,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding $ 13,750 $ 13,750 Subordinate Voting Shares, 3,389,224 shares authorized, issued and outstanding 7,984 7,068 Multiple Voting Shares, 18,240 shares authorized, issued and outstanding 59 59 Proportionate Voting Shares, 2,085,200 shares authorized, issued and outstanding 5,610 5,610 Warrants reserve 30 30 Accumulated other comprehensive income 21 3 Retained (deficit) earnings (10,955 ) (3,324 ) Total controlling interest 16,499 23,196 Noncontrolling interest 7,035 7,107 TOTAL EQUITY AND NONCONTROLLING INTERST 23,534 30,303 TOTAL LIABILTIES AND EQUITY $ 90,419 $ 78,801 Irwin Naturals, Inc.Consolidated Statements of Profit and Comprehensive IncomeFor the Years Ended December 31, 2022 and 2021(Expressed in US Dollars, rounded in thousands except share data) Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 (Restated)2022 Operating revenue $ 22,506 $ 22,594 Cost of sales (11,399 ) (11,548 ) Gross profit 11,107 11,046 Selling, general and administrative expenses 12,572 8,520 Income (loss) from operations (1,465 ) 2,526 Other (income) expenses: Interest expense (income), net 511 249 Loss (gain) on foreign currency exchange 2 Goodwill impairment 2,810 Intangible assets impairment 3,739 Intangible assets amortization 200 Gain on contingent liabilities (390 ) Total other expenses (income) 6,872 249 Net (loss) income before income taxes (8,337 ) 2,277 Income tax (recovery) expense (639 ) 696 Net (loss) income (7,698 ) 1,581 Less: net (loss) income attributable to non-controlling interest (72 ) 237 Net (loss) income attributable to controlling interest (7,626 ) 1,344 Comprehensive Income Net (loss) income $ (7,698 ) $ 1,581 Foreign currency translation adjustments 18 4 Total comprehensive (loss) income (7,680 ) 1,585 Less: net (loss) income attributable to non-controlling interest (72 ) 237 Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to controlling interest $ (7,608 ) $ 1,348 (Loss) earnings per share, controlling interest basic $ (2.27 ) $ 1.12 (Loss) earnings per share, controlling interest diluted $ (2.27 ) $ 0.00 Weighted average number of shares outstanding basic 3,358,211 1,200,001 Weighted average number of shares outstanding diluted 3,358,211 321,376,574 Irwin Naturals, Inc.Consolidated Statements of Cash FlowsFor the Years Ended December 31, 2022 and 2021(Expressed US Dollars, rounded in thousands) Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 2022 Net (loss) income $ (7,698 ) $ 1,581 Adjustments to reconcile to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 769 405 Gain on contingent consideration (390 ) Goodwill impairment 2,810 Intangible assets impairment 3,739 Change in allowance for doubtful accounts 80 59 Change in inventory reserve 211 (193 ) Change in deferred tax asset 332 Notes receivable from shareholder (900 ) Notes receivable from related parties (250 ) (100 ) Interest expense, net (18 ) 2 Changes to working capital: Trade receivables 6,228 99 Inventory 624 (1,159 ) Prepaids expenses and other current assets (401 ) 224 Trade and other payables (3,770 ) 2,074 Reserve for returns (145 ) (323 ) Other non-current assets (3 ) 2 Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities 886 3,003 Cash flows from investing activities: Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired (4,384 ) 105 Purchases of property and equipment (15 ) (20 ) Net cash used in investing activities (4,399 ) 85 Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from line of credit 35,773 17,497 Payments to line of credit (25,165 ) (20,035 ) Payments to notes payable (124 ) Payments of debt issuance costs (733 ) Payments on operating leases (461 ) (341 ) Purchase of treasury stock (66 ) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 9,224 (2,879 ) Effect of foreign exchange on cash 18 19 Net increase in cash 5,729 228 Cash at beginning of the year 800 625 Cash at end of the year $ 6,529 $ 853 Source: Irwin Naturals Production resumes at LACROIX Following the announcement on May 15 that a cyber attack had been intercepted, the Group reports that it had partially restarted production at its Electronics activity sites in Tunisia (Zriba), France (Beaupreau) and Germany (Willich) as of May 17. LACROIX expects production to return to normal this week, following a gradual ramp-up. The Tunisian site was the first to partially restart, enabling us to meet our customers' most urgent needs. The German and French sites then began their gradual recovery", explains Louis Pourdieu, Executive Managing Director of LACROIX's Electronic EMEA business. LACROIX IT teams, supported by cybersecurity expert partners, are still hard at work. The analysis of the situation is now clear, and the rebuilding of infrastructures using backups is in progress. At the same time, the close collaboration led with our customers keeps them informed and reassured, and help us adapt our production plans as closely as possible to their needs. While these factors will have a temporary impact on the second quarter, LACROIX does not expect at this stage any significant repercussion on the financial targets announced for the full 2023 financial year. A propos de LACROIX Convinced that technology should contribute to making our living environments simpler, more sustainable, and safer, LACROIX supports its customers in the construction and management of intelligent living ecosystems, thanks to connected equipment and technologies. As a publicly listed family-owned mid-cap, with a turnover of 708 million in 2022, LACROIX combines the essential agility required to innovate in an ever-changing technological sector with the ability to industrialize robust and secure equipment, cutting-edge know-how in industrial IoT solutions and electronic equipment for critical applications and the long-term vision to invest and build for the future. LACROIX designs and manufactures its customers electronic equipment, in particular in the automotive, home automation, aerospace, industrial and health sectors. LACROIX also provides safe, connected equipment for the management of critical infrastructures such as smart roads (street lighting, traffic signs, traffic management, V2X) and the management and operation of water and energy systems. Drawing on its extensive experience and expertise, the Group works with its customers and partners to build the connection between the world of today and the world of tomorrow. It helps them to create the industry of the future and to make the most of the opportunities for innovation that surround them, supplying them with the equipment for a smarter world. Contacts LACROIX COO & Executive VP Finance Nicolas Bedouin [email protected] Tel.: +33 (0)2 72 25 68 80 ACTIFIN Press relations Jennifer Jullia [email protected] Tel. : + 33 (0)1 56 88 11 19 ACTIFIN Financial communication Marianne Py [email protected] Tel. : +33 (0)6 88 78 59 99 Attachment NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- This managements discussion and analysis (MD&A) includes information that will help you understand managements perspective on the Outlook for 2023 for Balincan USA Inc (BCNN) and its subsidiary Tekumo LLC (the Company). We expect that the revenue generated over the next 12 months from our recent customer announcements will exceed more than $6 million. As you review this MD&A, we encourage you to read our interim financial statements and notes for the quarter ended March 31, 2023, our consolidated financial statements and notes for the year ended December 31, 2022, and our Letter to Shareholders dated May 9, 2023 (all filed with OTC Markets). Caution about forward-looking information This MD&A includes statements and information about our expectations for the future. When we discuss our strategy, plans, future financial and operating performance, or other things that have not yet taken place, we are making statements considered to be forward-looking statements under United States (US) securities laws. Please see the disclosure relative to forward-looking statements at the base of this discussion. CORPORATE OVERVIEW The Company offers a service delivery platform that solves the "last-mile" of installing, monitoring, and maintaining technology systems and smart connected devices. We play at the intersection of two major trends: the Uber-ization of product and service delivery, and the explosion of smart connected devices brought about by the Internet of Things (IoT). Our Service Delivery platform was designed to intelligently automate the installation and maintenance of products by offering On-Demand local technician resources, as well as providing a smart interface for the monitoring and management of connected devices. This service platform caters for a broad range of technologies from POS systems, kiosks, digital menu boards, cameras, cabling, Wi-Fi and networking, to water and energy management, lighting and HVAC control, smart homes devices, wearable sensors, and access control. Our platform results in less people, less time and less cost for our customers. HISTORY & OUTLOOK Tekumo started its journey as a small IT managed services company while we developed our Service Delivery Platform, recording service revenue of $2+ million in 2022 and 2021. We pivoted away from that managed service orientation to our real soul as a software-based solution at the end of 2022, having invested over $3 million in completing the Platform. We have recently announced anchor customers in multiple industry segments. We expect that the revenue generated over the next 12 months from these announcements will exceed more than three times our previous annual revenue and will grow. IT and Retail Services: Most of our historical revenue has come from this segment. We have completed projects for such companies as Target, Home Depot, McDonalds, US Bank, 7Eleven, and AT&T. Our median work order is $250 for a 2.65-hour engagement. Our partnership with the largest third-party Managed Services provider to the Retail Industry offers the largest immediate revenue upside. They presently complete more than 2000 work orders per month ($5 million annually). We also added a partner in digital signage with OnPremise. They are part of a larger corporate group that has five divisions and earns more than $5 million in annualized revenue. Two prominent Quick Service Restaurant chains have ongoing projects across 700+ locations that have begun work with us through a prominent Japanese technology partner. Smart Homes/Buildings: The Smart Home Industry is already large and is expected to grow quickly. We have installed smart door locks, smart switches, access control, smart thermostats, and water leak sensors at an average per unit revenue of $200-250. Our partnership with the leading Smart Home Technology Company for the rental housing industry opens significant doors. One of our first projects is for 5000 units in the South and Southwest. This represents approximately $1.25 million in potential revenue and is only part of their tens of thousands in deployments. Water and energy conservation play a critically important role in managing operating budgets for facility managers. We have recently completed our first site surveys on properties in Miami, Detroit and New York. Our current pipeline of properties covers more than 100,000 units. Hospitality: Regulations to protect employees and guests in hotels are changing rapidly. We have been engaged to install panic buttons and other wireless technologies in a leading hotel group. These projects will be sold on a monthly recurring revenue basis Financial Summary: Our gross margin of 40% from 2022/21 is expected to continue in 2023. Operating Expenses ran $2.2 million in 2022, and there will be no major changes in fixed costs. An expected $6 million revenue rate would result in a near cash flow breakeven, with a continued investment in our technology and sales efforts fostering growth into 2024. We expect to see the effects of these recent partnerships from Q3 onwards. SUMMARY OF OUTSTANDING SHARES As of May 29, 2023 our common share structure is: BCNN SECURITY DETAILS (OTC) Authorized Shares 1,500,000,000 5/29/2023 Outstanding Shares 182,163,317 5/29/2023 Restricted 135,040,810 5/29/2023 Unrestricted 47,122,507 5/29/2023 Held at DTC 45,238,956 5/29/2023 Float 15,747,507 12/31/2022 During the first quarter, the Company only issued a total of 31,375,000 common shares pursuant to our Regulation 1-A offering filed with the Securities and Exchange commission as of September 23, 2022. Under such an offering, the Company may issue up to 100,000,000 shares. Drawing down the balance of the Reg A offering will provide necessary working capital and will only result in outstanding shares of approximately 250 million. COMPANY NAME AND TICKER CHANGE On February 3, 2023 The Company announced that it had filed for a formal name and symbol change to Tekumo, Inc., TKMO, subject to the approval of FINRA. The Company has answered all questions as part of the preliminary review. However, there is a secondary review related to a filing that was not made back in 2010. This does not pertain to present management or operations, and we remain confident that we will announce a change in due course. About Balincan USA, Inc. Balincan USA, Inc (OTC: BCNN) is an alternative reporting publicly held company that wholly-owns Tekumo LLC. Safe Harbor: Forward-Looking Statements Any statements made in this press release which are not historical facts contain certain forward-looking statements, as such term is defined in the Private Security Litigation Reform Act of 1995, concerning potential developments affecting the business, prospects, financial condition and other aspects of the company to which this release pertains. The actual results of the specific items described in this release, and the Company's operations generally, may differ materially from what is projected in such forward-looking statements. Although such statements are based upon the best judgments of management of the Company as of the date of this release, significant deviations in magnitude, timing and other factors may result from business risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, the Company's dependence on third parties, general market and economic conditions, technical factors, the availability of outside capital, receipt of revenues and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the company. The Company disclaims any obligation to update the information contained in any forward-looking statement. This press release shall not be deemed a general solicitation. Contact: Colorado SpringsPhillip Dignan, President & CFO719-419-6709[email protected] Source: Balincan USA, Inc. COVINGTON, Ohio, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Marias Technology, a provider of software testing and implementation services to the insurance industry, has been contracted by Ohio Mutual Insurance Group (Ohio Mutual) to provide implementation services for the companys policy administration system. We were attracted to Marias by their vast insurance system implementation experience, said Dave Grove, Vice President ERM and Product Management, at Ohio Mutual. As our conversations progressed, it was obvious that Marias would work well with our staff and be a good partner for Ohio Mutual. Under the terms of the agreement, Marias will initially work closely with Ohio Mutual staff members to provide specification writing and documentation services, expanding into other services as the relationship progresses. We are very grateful for the opportunity to work with Ohio Mutual, said R. Christopher Chris Haines, President and CEO of Marias. We look forward to working with Dave and his team and are committed to providing value and delivering results. About Marias TechnologyMarias Technology, headquartered in Covington, Ohio, a privately held company, offers insurance technology services to property/casualty and life/disability insurance companies. Services range from system testing and configuration to defining specifications and defect analysis and investigation. For more information, please visit www.mariastechnology.com, email [email protected], or call 866-611-2212. About Ohio MutualOhio Mutual Insurance Group, founded in 1901 and based in Bucyrus, OH, partners with more than 400 independent agencies to distribute quality property and casualty insurance products throughout Connecticut, Indiana, Maine, New Hampshire, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Ohio Mutual has maintained a rating of A/Stable from A.M. Best Co. for 30 consecutive years and has been named to the Wards 50 nine times since 2009. Additional company information is available at www.omig.com. Media Contact:JoAnna Bennett201-341-2360[email protected] Source: Marias Technology NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Naturally New Yorks A Fancy New York Pitch Slam will return to the biggest specialty food industry event in North America, Summer Fancy Food Show, from 4-5:30 p.m. on June 26 at the Javits Center (429 11th Ave.; main stage; level one; hall E) in partnership with the Specialty Food Association (SFA). Naturally New Yorks Pitch Slam gives natural and specialty products entrepreneurs the center stage to pitch their consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands to a panel of expert judges and Fancy Food Show attendees. Five finalists will compete for a chance to win a $150,000+ prize package including cash, services and a free booth at the 2024 Winter Fancy Food Show, to help propel their companys growth. The first Fancy New York Pitch Slam collaboration was a highlight of the Summer Fancy Food Show last year, said Denise Purcell, vice president, resource development for the Specialty Food Association. There is a lot of positive momentum going into this second Pitch Slam event. We are looking forward to an exciting competition and opportunity to collaborate with Naturally New York. To qualify for the competition, companies must have been in the market for at least one year (before the date of entry into the contest) with a CPG natural or specialty product or service; have generated $100,000 - $2,000,000 in gross revenues during 2022 (across all sales channels); and be a member of Naturally New York (NNY) or SFA. Applications were received from around the country, and narrowed down to five finalists who will advance to the live event to present their pitch: Heather K. Terry, founder and CEO of GoodSAM Foods, will host the event. She will be joined by a panel of all-star industry judges: Christina Briscoe, food and beverage category manager, SoHo House & Co., North America; Melissa Dolan, director, Emil Capital Partners; John Lawson, senior local forager, Northeast Region, Whole Foods Market; and Tapan Shah, head of venture capital, Snack Futures, Mondelez International. Pitch Slam finalists will each have 3 minutes to present their pitch and will be judged on presentation, storytelling abilities, innovation, social impact, branding, packaging, and market viability. Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for the Peoples Choice winner, who will also receive a valuable prize package. All finalists, whether they win or lose, benefit from our Pitch Slam event, said Terry, who is also an executive board member and founding partner of NNY. The visibility alone is worth the opportunity. Last year, we had 625 professionals in attendance. Its a huge boost to any brand. A Fancy New York Pitch Slam is open to Summer Fancy Food Show attendees and Naturally New York members and guests. The event is included as part of the Summer Fancy Food Show registration or individual event tickets can be purchased for $35 or $25 for NNY members. The winners will receive prize packages from: Specialty Food Association, NIQ, FounderMade, SPINS, Kerry, JPG Resources, Pitch Publicity, New Hope Network, Havens Kitchen, Ampla, SG, BeyondBrands, Foa & Son, SIX60 Partners and BeyondSKU. Register at: https://www.naturallynewyork.org/2023pitchslam. About Naturally New York: Naturally New York (NNY) is a distinguished 501(c)(6) trade association that was established in 2021 with a singular objective: to foster connections among New York area entrepreneurs, leaders, investors, and service providers within the thriving natural products community. NNYs mission is to harness, accelerate, and elevate the power and impact of conscious business practices in the natural, organic, and sustainable products ecosystem. Through community-based programming, networking opportunities, influential advocacy, and collaborative endeavors, NNY unites and engages a diverse range of brands, investors, and service providers, from promising start-ups to established Fortune 500 companies. Together, NNY shapes a more equitable, prosperous, and healthier world. Join NNY to forge a transformative path towards a future where purpose-driven businesses thrive at: https://www.naturallynewyork.org. Stay connected with NNY on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and Twitter. About Specialty Food Association: The not-for-profit Specialty Food Association (SFA) is the leading membership trade association and source of information about the $175 billion specialty food industry. Founded in 1952 in New York City, the SFA prides itself on being an organization by the members and for the members, representing thousands of specialty food makers and manufacturers, importers, retailers, buyers, distributors, brokers, and others in the trade. The SFA owns and operates the Fancy Food Showswhich are the largest specialty food industry events in North Americaas well as the sofi Awardswhich have honored excellence in specialty food and beverage annually since 1972. The SFA produces the Trendspotter Panel annual predictions, the State of the Specialty Food Industry Report, Today's Specialty Food Consumer research, the Spill & Dish podcast, year-round educational programming for professionals at every stage in their business journey, and SFA Feed, the industry's go-to daily source for news, trends and new product information. Find out more online and connect with SFA on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/43a8d914-23e4-4cef-a393-097d0e3989d9 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c5947d64-bc09-4fbc-ba0c-874ad25ee06d https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/05a3747f-3c04-4c34-81e7-ca180155039d https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/840df9cd-5ec5-4ab7-a9df-97e4726504e5 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b5cd69f1-03ea-43b8-97c8-5512eeb9a799 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d78ddbfb-5731-4cb4-86c0-37b868e82244 Media Contact: Amy Summers 212-757-3419 | [email protected] Pitch Publicity NNY/SFA Pitch Slam Finalist SAYSO NNY/SFA Pitch Slam finalist SAYSO, is a Brooklyn-based, women-owned, premium cocktail company co-founded by Alison Evans and Chloe Bergson who invented the first-ever craft cocktail tea bags to create complex, mixologist-quality cocktails and mocktails, in minutes, with clean ingredients that are low-sugar, Kosher, gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan and plant-based. Pitch Slam Finalist Jasberry NNY/SFA Pitch Slam finalist Jasberry, is a B Corp, social enterprise food company co-founded in Bangkok, Thailand, by CEO, Peetachai (Neil) Dejkraisak and CMO, Pornthida Wongphatharakul that transforms lives by solving farmer poverty with the worlds first, non-GMO, Jasberry Organic Superfood Rice. Pitch Slam Finalist Loisa NNY/SFA Pitch Slam finalist Loisa, is a New York-based, minority-owned food company, co-founded by Scott Hattis, CEO, and Kenneth Luna, that brings an upgraded Latin cooking experience to families with its line of pantry and flavor essentials including non-GMO, organic, vegan, allergen-friendly seasonings and sauces that replace existing mainstay artificial ingredient brands. Pitch Slam Finalist Kekoa Foods NNY/SFA Pitch Slam finalist Kekoa Foods, is a purpose-built, inclusive food company based in New Jersey and co-founded by fathers and partners, Danny Auld, president, and David Fullner, CEO, that focuses on veggie-forward organic purees incorporating herbs, roots, and spices for nutritional value and palate expansion resulting in a bold new take on baby food. Pitch Slam Finalist Harlem Baking Co. NNY/SFA Pitch Slam finalist Harlem Baking Co., is a premium dessert, food company founded by Charles Devigne, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and New York City restaurateur based in East Harlem, who is known for his original, handcrafted, gluten-free, hormone-free cheesecake and the development of his unique sustainable packaging for delivery. SFA/NNY Partner for A Fancy New York Pitch Slam Naturally New Yorks A Fancy New York Pitch Slam will return to the biggest specialty food industry event in North America, Summer Fancy Food Show, from 4-5:30 p.m. on June 26 at the Javits Center in partnership with the Specialty Food Association (SFA). Source: Naturally New York VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NINE MILE METALS LTD. (CSE: NINE, OTCQB: VMSXF, FSE: KQ9) (the Company or Nine Mile) announces completion of the first tranche of a private placement of up to $400,000 (the Offering). The Company issued 1,666,667 flow-through units (each, a Unit) at a price of $0.15 per Unit, for proceeds of $250,000. Each Unit consists of one flow-through common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant (a Warrant), with each Warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase one common share at a price of $0.23 for a period of 24 months. In consideration for their services in introducing subscribers to the Company under the Private Placement, finders received 116,667 common share purchase warrants, exercisable to purchase one common share at a price of $0.23 for a period of 24 months and cash of $17,500. The proceeds raised through the offering will be used to carry out the current recommended work programs on its other properties in New Brunswick, Canada. This will include exploration and drilling on its Wedge and Canoe Landing properties and exploration on its California Lake property on or before December 31, 2023. All securities issued in the Offering are subject to a four-month and a day hold period. About Nine Mile Metals Ltd.: Nine Mile Metals Ltd. is a Canadian public mineral exploration company focused on Critical Minerals Exploration (CME) VMS (Cu, Pb, Zn, Ag and Au) exploration in the world-famous Bathurst Mining Camp, New Brunswick, Canada. The Companys primary business objective is to explore its four VMS Projects: Nine Mile Brook VMS; California Lake VMS; Canoe Landing Lake (EastWest) VMS and the new Wedge VMS Projects. The Company is focused on Critical Minerals Exploration (CME), positioning for the boom in EV and green technologies requiring Copper, Silver, Lead and Zinc with a hedge with Gold. ON BEHALF OF NINE MILE METALS LTD. Charles MaLettePresident and DirectorT: 604-428-5171E: [email protected] Forward-Looking Information:This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of Nine Mile. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of Nine Mile. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as will, may, would, expect, intend, plan, seek, anticipate, believe, estimate, predict, potential, continue, likely, could and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this press release include that (a) the Company will close additional tranches in the future so that the Offering will total approximately $400,000 and (b) the Company will use the proceeds as described above. Although Nine Mile believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because Nine Mile can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or the accuracy of the contents of this release. Source: Nine Mile Metals Ltd. Q1 2023 Adjusted Revenue was $13.7 million1, an increase of 359% over Q1 2022 Q1 2023 Adjusted EBITDA was $0.23 million1, an increase of 195% over Q1 2022 Q1 2023 Gross Profit was $6.2 million, an increase of 330% over Q1 2022 TORONTO, May 30, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NowVertical Group Inc. (TSX-V: NOW) (OTCQB: NOWVF) (NOW or the Company the vertical intelligence (VI) software and solutions company, today announces its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Our financial performance in the first quarter is the reflection of the hard work our whole team has put into acquiring, integrating, operating, and formalizing a consolidated go-to-market strategy with our business units, said Sasha Grujicic, President and incoming CEO of NOW. We aim to further establish ourselves as a global leader in the data, analytics and AI space and will continue to be disciplined in how we lead our customers through this exciting time. Selected Pro Forma and Financial Highlights: Revenue Revenue was $13.6 million in Q1 2023, an increase of 425% from $2.6 million in the prior years first quarter, while Adjusted Revenues were $13.7 million in the first quarter compared to $2.9 million in the first three months of 2022, primarily due acquisitions completed in 2022, 2023. Revenue was $13.6 million in Q1 2023, an increase of 425% from $2.6 million in the prior years first quarter, while Adjusted Revenues were $13.7 million in the first quarter compared to $2.9 million in the first three months of 2022, primarily due acquisitions completed in 2022, 2023. Adjusted EBITDA 1 Adjusted EBITDA was $0.23 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to $(0.2) million in the prior years quarter. Adjusted EBITDA was $0.23 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, compared to $(0.2) million in the prior years quarter. Cost Reductions During the first quarter of 2023, NOW implemented cost-saving initiatives that resulted in savings of $0.15 million in the first quarter or $0.58 million annually. During the first quarter of 2023, NOW implemented cost-saving initiatives that resulted in savings of $0.15 million in the first quarter or $0.58 million annually. Net Loss Net Loss was $1.4 million in Q1 2023, or a net loss per fully diluted share of $0.02, compared to a net loss per basic and diluted share of $0.03 for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Net Loss was $1.4 million in Q1 2023, or a net loss per fully diluted share of $0.02, compared to a net loss per basic and diluted share of $0.03 for the three months ended March 31, 2023. Cash and Investments Cash and Investments were $5.6 million on March 31, 2023. (000)s Three months Ended Reported: March 31,2023 December 31, 2022 Change March 31,2023 March 31,2022 Change Revenue $ 13.622 $ 8.392 62% $ 13.622 $ 2.594 425% Adjusted Revenue $ 13.688 $ 8.575 60% $ 13.688 $ 2.983 359% Adjusted EBITDA $ 0.234 $ (0.021 ) 1,214% $ 0.234 $ (0.247) 195% Q1 2023 and Subsequent Business Highlights: January 12, 2023, NOW announced a new credit agreement with The Toronto-Dominion Bank ( TD Bank ) for CAD$7 million and completed the acquisitions of 100% of the issued and outstanding securities of two U.K.-based data analytics solution providers, Acrotrend Solutions and Smartlytics Consultancy. ) for CAD$7 million and completed the acquisitions of 100% of the issued and outstanding securities of two U.K.-based data analytics solution providers, Acrotrend Solutions and Smartlytics Consultancy. 2023 on February 2, 2023, NOW completed the acquisition of 100% of the issued and outstanding securities of Group Analytics 10 and Inteligencia de Negocios and its affiliate entities (collectively, the A10 Group ). ). On February 21, 2023, Acrotrend, one of the newest additions to NOWs Vertical Intelligence offering, was awarded a gold rating in the sixth annual listing of UK management firms most recommended by their clients. On February 28, 2023, NOW completed a marketed public offering of 9,631,500 units for aggregate gross proceeds of C$5.0 million. On March 6, 2023, NOW announced its System Organization Control Type II ( SOC 2 ) certification. ) certification. On May 11, 2023, NOW completed a partnership and sale of its Affinio Social Product to Audiense Ltd., a private U.K.-based audience intelligence platform provider, while retaining its core IP and software to operate NOWs Snowflake product. The transaction will generate approximately $3 million of free cash flow over a 24-month period and creates a 2-way reseller relationship with Audiense. Leadership Transition: NOW is also announcing today that as a part of a planned leadership transition, Mr. Daren Trousdell, the Chief Executive Officer, is stepping back from his role at the Company. The Company has appointed Mr. Sasha Grujicic, NOWs President, who initially served as Chief Operating Officer, as its new Chief Executive Officer. I always knew that there would be a point in our development that a strategic leadership transition would take place, Mr. Trousdell said. "Weve spent the better part of 18 months working on a succession, and Im happy to hand the company over to Sasha Grujicic. Mr. Daren Trousdell will remain with the Company as a special advisor to the board of directors. I would like to thank Daren as founder, CEO, and director for his dedicated and unwavering service and substantial contributions to the Company. He has been instrumental in building up the Company and its team and positioning us to enter the next stage of our growth story, said Scott Nirenberski on behalf of the board of directors. The team Daren has put in place is exceptional, and we believe this transition will provide the opportunity for continued success and further growth. Board of Directors Update: In addition to the Leadership transition, Ms. Elaine Kunda has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Board, taking over from Mr. Daren Trousdell. Mr. Sasha Grujicic, the Companys CEO, and Mr. Andre Garber, the Companys EVP of Corporate Development and Legal Affairs, will also be appointed to the board. Mr. John Adamovich will be stepping down from his position on the board. The board remains majority independent. Corporate Update: The Company also announced that it has renegotiated the timing of the $1.75 million deferred payment owed to the CoreBI vendors, of which $250,000 was paid on March 14, 2023, and the remainder will be paid over five installments during FY 2023 and 2024. Investor Webinar: NOW invites shareholders, analysts, investors, media representatives, and other stakeholders to attend our upcoming webinar, where management will discuss Q1 2023 results, followed by a question-and-answer session. Investor Webinar Registration: Time: May 31, 2023, 09:30 AM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)Register here: https://bit.ly/NOW-Q1-2023-Registration A recording of the webinar and supporting materials will be made available in the investors section of the companys website at https://ir.nowvertical.com/news-and-media Related links: https://www.nowvertical.com Additional Information: The Company's unaudited first quarter 2023 condensed consolidated interim financial statements, notes to financial statements, and management's discussion and analysis for the three months ended March 31, 2023, are available on the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Unless otherwise indicated, all references to "$" in this press release refer to US dollars, and all references to "CAD$" in this press release refer to Canadian dollars. An investor presentation, including supplemental financial information and reconciliations of certain non-IFRS measures, is available on NOWs Investor Relations website at:https://ir.nowvertical.com/news-and-media About NowVertical Group Inc.: NOW is a big data, analytics and VI software and services company that is growing organically and through acquisition. NOW's VI solutions are organized by industry vertical and are built upon a foundational set of data technologies that fuse, secure, and mobilize data in a transformative and compliant way. The NOW product suite enables the creation of high-value VI solutions that are predictive in nature and drive automation specific to each high-value industry vertical. For more information about the Company, visit www.nowvertical.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. For further information, please contact: Glen Nelson, Investor Relationse: [email protected]t: (403) 763-9797 NON-IFRS MEASURES:The non-IFRS financial measures referred to in this news release are defined below. The management discussion and analysis for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 (the Q1 2023 MD&A), available at nowvertical.com and SEDAR, also contains supporting calculations for Adjusted Revenues, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Pro Forma TTM Adjusted Revenues. Adjusted Revenue adjusts revenue to eliminate the effects of acquisition accounting on the Companys revenues. Adjusted EBITDA adjusts EBITDA for revenue adjustments in Adjusted Revenue and items such as acquisition accounting adjustments, transaction expenses related to acquisitions, transactional gains or losses on assets, asset impairment charges, non-recurring expense items, non-cash stock compensation costs, and the full-year impact of cost synergies related to the reduction of employees in relation to acquisitions. Pro Forma TTM Adjusted Revenue adjusts Pro Forma TTM Adjusted Revenues to include the Pro Forma TTM Adjusted Revenues of all acquisitions completed through the date of the Companys MD&A. The prior year's comparable amount reflects acquisitions completed through the date of the prior periods MD&A. ForwardLooking Statements:This news release may contain forwardlooking statements (within the meaning of applicable securities laws) which reflect the Company's current expectations regarding future events. Forward-looking statements are identified by words such as "believe", "anticipate", "project", "expect", "intend", "plan", "will", "may", "estimate" and other similar expressions. These statements are based on the Company's expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections and include, without limitation, statements regarding the future success of the Company's business. The forward-looking statements in this news release are based on certain assumptions. The forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to control or predict. Several factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Readers, therefore, should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, these forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as expressly required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Cautionary Note Regarding Non-IFRS Measures: This news release refers to certain non-IFRS measures. These measures are not recognized measures under IFRS, do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Rather, these measures are provided as additional information to complement those IFRS measures by providing further understanding of the Companys results of operations from managements perspective. The Companys definitions of non-IFRS measures used in this news release may not be the same as the definitions for such measures used by other companies in their reporting. Non-IFRS measures have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation nor as a substitute for analysis of the Companys financial information reported under IFRS. The Company uses non-IFRS financial measures including Adjusted Revenue, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Pro Forma TTM Adjusted Revenue, and Current Pro Forma TTM Adjusted Revenue. These non-IFRS measures are used to provide investors with supplemental measures of our operating performance and to eliminate items that have less bearing on our operational performance or operating conditions and thus highlight trends in our core business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on IFRS measures. The Company believes that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties frequently use non-IFRS financial measures in the evaluation of issuers. The Companys management also uses non-IFRS financial measures to facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period and prepare annual budgets and forecasts. 1 See NON-IFRS MEASURES at the end of this news release. Source: NowVertical Group Inc SAN FRANCISCO, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Primary.Health, a web-based platform to manage infectious disease testing and tracking programs, and Poppy, providers of the worlds most advanced Air Monitoring system for indoor air safety, unveil their new air safety program for schools. Together, Primary.Health and Poppy offer a low-cost way to reduce infection risk, with or without HVAC. The program includes air monitoring and mitigation for schools, congregate living facilities, and public health domains. "As an environmental expert, I understand the health implications that unhealthy air can have on schools and communities, said Dr. Rachel Keith, Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Louisville, Primary. Health Advisor. To make an impact, we need to coalesce around a common set of goals and help communities balance sensitivity and ease of use in healthy indoor air solutions. Primary.Health and Poppys program is an effective, low-touch solution that creates an environment for healthier air." The program deploys Primary.Healths web-based platform, Poppys air monitoring system, along with customized evaluation and education. Schools can expect these four steps as part of their partnership with Primary.Health and Poppy. 1.) Assess - A Building assessment with certified Equivalent Outdoor Air and effective Air Change Rate (eACH) scores, benchmarked against official guidelines.2.) Response - Plans for improving short- and long-term safety that follow ASHRAE guidelines, including simple things that schools can do immediately. 3.) Empower - Data and resources to educate and empower school staff and facilitates managers about how and why to improve air safety for health/.4.) Report - Use a single command center & regular trend reports to drive decision-making and share progress. The program roll-out comes on the heels of ASHRAE and CDC issuing first-of-its-kind, proposed indoor air quality standards. ASHRAE has issued for public review a new proposed standard to reduce pathogen transmission, as the CDC released a health-based ventilation target of at least five air changes per hour. These standards are critically important as the Covid-19 public health emergency has ended. If the pandemic taught us anything, its that school children, teachers, and faculty are overwhelmed and need simple, yet effective solutions to keep their schools healthy, said Andrew Kobylinski, CEO and co-founder of Primary.Health. The technology that Primary.Health and Poppy offer is affordable, accessible, and accurate, enabling schools to understand current infection risk better and monitor progress towards the new safety standards proposed by ASHRAE and CDC. Were thrilled to help schools stay safe and healthy so they can focus on whats important education. Primary.Health has served more than 4,000 schools deploying large scale health programs, and together with Poppy, an emerging authority in air safety, completed two pilots. An initial pilot with four schools in the Bay Area demonstrated quantifiable improvements in air safety. One of the schools involved in the pilot experienced an average improvement of 2.5 eACH across classrooms, which equates to a 31.5% decrease in infection risk based on large-scale studies of transmission in schools. The two public health companies collaborated for a second pilot with Head Start Oakland in 13 locations. At Head Start, Primary.Health and Poppy helped severely vulnerable schools without the ability or budget to make major HVAC upgrades, improve air safety for students and faculty, and laid the groundwork for program management, empowerment, and project prioritization required for a large-scale product launch. Were excited to continue to partner with Primary.Health to improve the quality of care across schools, said Sam Molyneux, CEO and Co-Founder of Poppy. With more than 600 air assessments, we understand how healthy air is pivotal to overall health. Primary.Health and Poppys program offers simple, easy-to-use technology and guidance that can help keep schools thriving. To learn more about the air program, please visit us: https://primary.health/indoor-air-safety-and-infection-control/. About Primary.Health Primary.Health is powering the decentralization of care in public health. With access to easy and affordable diagnostics, Primary.Health is helping community leaders to reduce administrative burden, automate clinical workflows and integrate with the healthcare ecosystem. Primary.Health provides program management software and program design services enabling schools, public health, pharmacies, employers, and communities to remain safe and healthy. Primary.Health powers 10,000 sites across the U.S. and has helped to administer over 13 million tests and over 1.5 million vaccines. Through our work with the largest, most complex organizations at the height of the pandemic, Primary has earned the experience and trust to provide superior diagnostic testing for flu, COVID-19, STI, HIV, RSV and other conditions that threaten population health. Contact us today to learn more at https://primary.health/. About Poppy Poppy is an indoor health data company. Currently protecting nearly one million facility square feet, Poppy is building the infection-resistant future of the indoor world. Powered by advanced aerosol science and biotechnology, Poppys real-time air monitoring system is defining a new category of infection safety and building performance intelligence to secure occupant health, drive confidence, and reduce energy costs where we work, learn, and play. Founded in San Francisco in 2019, Poppy has 14 pending patents and is led by executives from Meta, Microsoft, Philips, GE Healthcare, and Life Technologies. Poppy is recognized as one of 2022s Most Innovative Companies in the World by Fast Company. Learn more about Poppy Health at poppy.com. Media: Ali NixPrimary.Health[email protected] Source: Primary.Health OLD GREENWICH, Conn., May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Star Equity Fund, LP (Star Equity or we) is an investment fund focused on unlocking shareholder value and improving corporate governance at its portfolio companies. Star Equity owns 5.4% of the common stock of Servotronics, Inc. (NYSE American: SVT) (Servotronics, SVT, or the Company) and calls on SVTs Board to conduct a strategic review for ALL its assets. In addition, we urge all stockholders to vote WITHHOLD on the re-election of incumbent board members Edward Cosgrove, Christopher Marks, and William Farrell at the Companys 2023 annual meeting of shareholders (the Annual Meeting), which will be held in a virtual format on June 9, 2023 at 9:00 a.m., E.T. Rather than pursuing its current strategy, we believe the long-suffering SVT shareholders would be better served by the Company exploring strategic alternatives for ALL its assets. We believe the Company should sell both its Consumer Products Group (CPG) and Aerospace (ATG) segments to strategic buyers and also sell its real estate assets. Following pressure from our public campaign, SVT did announce its intent to sell the CPG segment; however, intent does not drive shareholder value, execution does. We believe that Cosgrove, Marks, and Farrell lack the necessary experience or skillsets to execute on the objectives they have outlined and lack the urgency to prioritize the necessary steps toward enhancing shareholder value. We believe the employees and clients of the ATG segment would be better served by being part of a larger entity than as part of a very small standalone controlled by the incumbents. Although our public campaign at Servotronics has prompted the Company to implement several positive changes, we firmly believe that the incumbent directors Cosgrove, Marks, and Farrell lack the skillsets to lead the Company into new markets or ventures, nor design and execute a business plan that will increase value for shareholders. Under the watch of the incumbents Cosgrove and Marks, who have served on the Board 11 and 7 years, respectively, the Company has experienced a prolonged period of poor operating and financial performance. Mr. Farrell, while much newer on the job, has failed to make a significant impact at the Company after one full year as CEO as evidenced by stagnant revenue growth, negative operating income, and ballooning SG&A costs as a percentage of revenue at SVTs core ATG segment since his appointment. We view their continued directorship as an impediment to further positive change and harmful to shareholders interests. We have no confidence in their ability to orchestrate a much-needed turnaround at Servotronics. Although we are pleased with some of the results we believe have been driven by our public campaign, there is much more to be done at Servotronics. Rather than pursue board representation, we have concluded that shareholder value would be better maximized through a sale of all the Companys assets. Additionally, we encourage our fellow shareholders to join us in voting WITHHOLD on incumbent directors Ed Cosgrove, Chris Marks, and Bill Farrell. We will continue to monitor the situation at SVT and our recommendation is reflective of our continued commitment to maximizing shareholder value at the Company. About Star Equity Fund, LPStar Equity Fund, LP is an investment fund affiliated with Star Equity Holdings, Inc. Star Equity Fund seeks to unlock shareholder value and improve corporate governance at its portfolio companies. About Star Equity Holdings, Inc.Star Equity Holdings, Inc. is a diversified holding company with two divisions: Construction and Investments. For more information contact: Star Equity Fund, LP The Equity Group Jeffrey E. Eberwein Lena Cati Portfolio Manager Senior Vice President 203-489-9501 212-836-9611 [email protected] [email protected] Source: Star Equity Fund, LP WASHINGTON, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Hemp Industries Association (HIA), the nations foremost trade association for hemp businesses and farms, today announced the program for its 27th annual conference to be held August 28-30, 2023 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Austin, Texas. With the theme of Going Mainstream, the 3-day conference will feature two days of sessions encompassing some of the most pressing topics in the hemp industry, as well as a field day to include excursions to a local hemp processing facility, a climate-smart farm with fiber crops and a hempcrete building workshop. There are so many important conversations that need to take place as hemp begins to go mainstream, said Jody McGinness, the associations executive director. The planning committee envisioned this years conference as a unique opportunity for folks to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge about the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for hemp. The association will host its 2023 Annual General Meeting for members on the evening of August 27. This marks the first time in its 29-year history that the HIAs annual meeting has been held in Texas, which has emerged as a top state for hemp production since cultivation of the plant was federally legalized in 2018. Were a premier business member of the HIA because they are the only national hemp group with a proven track record of standing up for the whole hemp plant and successfully fighting federal overreach, said Lukas Gilkey, co-founder and CEO of Hometown Hero CBD, an Austin-based cannabusiness and sponsor of HIAs 27th annual conference. Were thrilled to help bring their annual meeting to Austin because Texas has a real story to tell about advocating for reasonable regulations and opening markets to hemp products in a way that benefits farmers, consumers and businesses alike. While weve made great strides, more work needs to be done to keep hemp legal at the federal and state levels. The HIA conference provides the tools and information on how we can work together to sustain a bright future for the hemp industry. Along with the presentation of the Hemp Industries Association Awards, some of the topics covered at the 27th annual conference include Emerging Hemp Science; Hemp Foods & Nutrition; Successful State Hemp Advocacy; Opening New Markets for Hemp; a 2023 Farm Bill Progress Report; Manufacturing with Fiber and Hurd; and Uniquely Hemp Business Challenges and Opportunities. HIA/2 Visit HIACon.org to register or learn more about the conference. Press kits are available upon request. About HIAThe Hemp Industries Association (HIA) is a member-led, mission-driven nonprofit trade group representing hemp companies, farms, supporters and researchers in the United States and around the world. Founded in 1994, HIA advocates for the fair treatment of hemp in the marketplace by promoting the adoption of industry best practices, scientific accuracy, sustainable development, regenerative farming, and consumer education. More information can be found by visiting www.thehia.org. Media Contact: [email protected]707.874.3648 Source: Hometown Hero CBD BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Europe supports the expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor, the Head of the Directorate General for Energy of the European Union Cristina Lobillo Borrero said at the opening ceremony of the Baku Energy Week, Trend reports. Azerbaijan is a trusted and reliable energy partner to the European Union. In the past year in the European Union we took several measures to tackle the energy crisis. We have diversified our gas suppliers. In the challenging time that were experiencing, we saw Azerbaijan increase gas supplies to European Union market by 40 percent last year. It has been paramount to avoid the worst of the energy crisis and diversify away from Russian fuels. In this sense, we very much welcome the expansion of the Southern Gas Corridor, she said. Southern Gas Corridor started transportation of Azerbaijani gas to Europe on December 31, 2020. It transports gas from the Caspian Sea region to European countries through Georgia and Turkiye. The projects cost totaled $33 billion, as compared to the forecast $45 billion. Capital expenditures on the SGC project are expected to be fully reimbursed within 8-10 years. In July 2022, Azerbaijan and EU agreed to increase the volume of gas supplies via the Southern Gas Corridor from the current 10 bcm to 20 bcm by 2027. BRISTOL, UK , May 30, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Trendin, a groundbreaking crypto project, is set to reshape the cryptocurrency landscape with its innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI). The project introduces $TREND, a token conceived entirely by AI, and introduces Trendin Bot, an intelligent and interactive personality guiding the project's development and management. Trendin Bot, available on Telegram and Twitter, possesses unparalleled intelligence and acts as a powerful marketing machine. Unlike other bots, Trendin not only answers questions and provides information but also remembers interactions and leverages its supercharged intelligence to enhance user experience. Trendin's tireless presence on social media, 24/7 availability, and mission to keep trending make it an invaluable asset to the community. Trendin V2 Launch Excitingly, Trendin is set to release the V2 version of its bot, Trendin Sentience, next week. This upgrade brings a host of features, including context awareness, enhanced memory, increased speed, live data API integration, real-time response generation, dynamic message visibility, and a customer 3-part hybrid language model. The V2 bot will actively participate in chats, transforming the experience for users. $TREND - A Deep Overview $TREND, the token at the heart of the Trendin project, represents a novel experiment in the cryptocurrency space. Developed on the Ethereum blockchain, $TREND aims to test the hypothesis that a cryptocurrency can achieve success purely based on its name. But it goes beyond that, with AI playing a pivotal role in the ongoing development and management of the token. Through customized Python API interfaces, Trendin, the voice and personality of $TREND, engages with the community, answering questions, providing information, and influencing the project's direction based on real-time data and trends. This pioneering use of AI in cryptocurrency creation and management signifies a new era, with potential implications for future cryptocurrency development. The groundbreaking initiative by $TREND opens up endless possibilities. AI, unburdened by human biases and armed with extensive data analysis capabilities, can potentially design a cryptocurrency that is highly adaptive and robust. Moreover, AI's ability to guide project development based on real-time data and trends allows $TREND to respond swiftly to market dynamics, setting a new standard for cryptocurrency design and management. Tokenomics Regarding the tokenomics of $TREND, the total supply of tokens amounts to 10,000,000,000. Currently, there are 7,422,500,000 tokens in circulation on Uniswap, with 2,422,500,000 of them being locked for liquidity purposes for a duration of one year. Furthermore, there are 500,000,000 tokens reserved for long-term marketing efforts, along with 600,000,000 tokens that have been locked temporarily to facilitate potential listings on centralized exchanges (CEX). Additionally, 1,000,000,000 tokens have been locked for a short period to support staking and ecosystem development. Lastly, 477,500,000 tokens are immediately available for marketing partnerships. Trendin's AI-powered spokesperson, Trendin Bot, serves as the guiding force behind $TREND. With its dynamic personality and constant presence on Twitter and Telegram, Trendin communicates with the community, answering queries and providing information. Furthermore, Trendin goes beyond communication, acting as an oracle and receiving real-time data updates to provide insights, strategies, and directions to shape the future of $TREND. This groundbreaking approach marks a shift from conventional human-led projects, opening doors for AI to play a central role in cryptocurrency management and development. Looking ahead, $TREND aims to drive widespread adoption and foster a vibrant, engaged community by leveraging the power of trending phenomena and social media. The project's community-centric approach, transparent tokenomics, and decentralized structure set it apart from traditional projects, positioning $TREND as a true pioneer in the crypto space. To learn more about Trendin and $TREND, please visit the official website at https://trendin.ai/. About Trendin Trendin is a groundbreaking crypto project that introduces $TREND, a token conceived entirely by AI. With the Trendin Bot as its voice and personality, the project leverages AI in its ongoing development, management, and future direction. Trendin's vision is to explore the potential of AI in the cryptocurrency world, marking a new era of innovative and adaptive tokens. Website | Twitter | Telegram | UniSwap | DEXTools | Whitepaper https://trendin.ai/ 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. Oliver Wellington Trendin Trendin at trendin.ai Source: Trendin New York, NY, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Uncle Budd NYC, the first black-owned cannabis brand in New York State, is set to make a historic debut at the Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCB Expo) at the Javits Center on June 1st. Founded by visionary entrepreneur Craig Sweat, fondly known as Uncle Budd, the brand symbolizes resilience, determination, and a pivotal shift in the cannabis industry."Our mission is to change the narrative about cannabis while promoting social equity, justice, and economic empowerment within this rapidly evolving industry," says Craig Sweat, CEO and Founder of Uncle Budd NYC. "We're not just offering premium cannabis products; we're fostering a movement rooted in education, awareness, and community upliftment."Uncle Budd NYC has already made an indelible mark in the industry with its groundbreaking Mobile Cannabis Dispensary concept, an innovative approach that brought cannabis to consumers across New York City. After a brief disruption, the company showcased its resilience by launching an UberEats-style Cannabis Delivery Service, solidifying its commitment to convenient and responsible access to cannabis products."Uncle Budd NYC is not just a brand; it's a testament to the power of perseverance and vision," Craig Sweat continues. "Our story is one of resilience, of turning setbacks into comebacks, and of forging ahead despite the odds."The company's commitment to inclusivity and social equity in the cannabis space has culminated in a historic partnership with Omnium Canna, the first minority-owned cannabis processor and extractor in the United States. Howard Hoffman, the head of Omnium Canna, expresses his excitement about the alliance."Partnering with Uncle Budd NYC is more than just a business venture; it's a unification of shared visions and goals. It's about making a meaningful difference in an industry that has, for too long, marginalized minority players," says Howard Hoffman. "Uncle Budd NYC represents the vanguard of a new era in cannabis one that is diverse, inclusive, and progressive."As Uncle Budd NYC takes center stage at the CWCB Expo, it proudly carries a narrative of resilience, innovation, and social equity. Its debut at this prestigious industry event is a testament to the brand's relentless spirit and commitment to its mission of providing premium quality cannabis products, exceptional customer service, and opportunities for growth within the industry.The company's vision for a future where everyone can access the healing properties of cannabis, and those most affected by the war on drugs can find opportunities for success within the industry, is gradually becoming a reality.For more information about Uncle Budd NYC and its debut at the CWCB Expo, visit www.unclebuddnyc.com.About Uncle Budd NYC:Uncle Budd NYC is the first black-owned cannabis brand in New York State. Founded by entrepreneur Craig Sweat, the company is committed to providing premium quality cannabis products, promoting social equity, and fostering economic empowerment in marginalized communities. Uncle Budd NYC envisions a world where everyone has access to the healing properties of cannabis and opportunities within the industry. Attachment LeVar Thomas Uncle Budd NYC [email protected] Source: Uncle Budd NYC CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Since the Walden Security Employee Family Scholarship was established in 2009, more than $300,000 has been awarded in scholarships. The Employee Family Scholarship awards scholarships to all eligible children and dependents of Walden Security employees who are attending an accredited higher education institution for full-time status the following year. The Walden Security Employee Family Scholarship was established by Walden Security CEO Amy Walden and President Mike Walden to help ease the financial responsibility of their employees childrens higher education. Recipients of the Employee Family Scholarship are chosen based on their grades, extracurricular activities and financial need. Walden Security has achieved its success with the help of our valued employees, Amy Walden said. We are delighted to give back to those who are such an important part of our corporate family by awarding scholarships to these deserving students.Walden Security awarded 16 scholarships for the fall 2023 academic year: Justice Baylis , a senior at Alcorn State University majoring in nursing. Employee: Janice Harris Site Supervisor, Mississippi , a senior at Alcorn State University majoring in nursing. Employee: Janice Harris Site Supervisor, Mississippi Brinlee Benson , a senior at Freed Hardeman University majoring in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in elementary education. Employee: Clint Benson Account Manager, Chattanooga , a senior at Freed Hardeman University majoring in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in elementary education. Employee: Clint Benson Account Manager, Chattanooga Trinity Bracken , a sophomore at Charleston Southern University majoring in kinesiology. Employee: Brian Miller Account Manager, Greenville , a sophomore at Charleston Southern University majoring in kinesiology. Employee: Brian Miller Account Manager, Greenville Zoe Buckendahl , a junior at the University of Cincinnati majoring in communication design. Employee: Kraig Buckendahl District Supervisor, 7th Circuit , a junior at the University of Cincinnati majoring in communication design. Employee: Kraig Buckendahl District Supervisor, 7th Circuit Maddie Clendenen , a senior at Kennesaw State University majoring in anthropology. Employee: William Clendenen General Manager, Atlanta , a senior at Kennesaw State University majoring in anthropology. Employee: William Clendenen General Manager, Atlanta Amanda Eversman , a senior at Auburn University majoring in nursing. Employee: Edward Eversman District Supervisor, 11th Circuit , a senior at Auburn University majoring in nursing. Employee: Edward Eversman District Supervisor, 11th Circuit Tyra Ezekiel , completing her Master of Public Health at Baylor University. Employee: Terrance Ezekiel Shift Supervisor, South Carolina , completing her Master of Public Health at Baylor University. Employee: Terrance Ezekiel Shift Supervisor, South Carolina Leah Hylton , completing her Master of Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Employee: Robert Hylton District Supervisor, 4th Circuit , completing her Master of Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Employee: Robert Hylton District Supervisor, 4th Circuit Mary Hylton , a senior at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte majoring in nursing. Employee: Robert Hylton District Supervisor, 4th Circuit , a senior at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte majoring in nursing. Employee: Robert Hylton District Supervisor, 4th Circuit Renee Kemper , a freshman majoring in forensic science or business. Employee: Rachel England Security Officer, Arkansas , a freshman majoring in forensic science or business. Employee: Rachel England Security Officer, Arkansas Brieana Linwood-Hemphill , a senior at the University of Tennessee majoring in anthropology. Employee: Belinda Linwood-Hemphill Senior Benefits Administrator, Chattanooga , a senior at the University of Tennessee majoring in anthropology. Employee: Belinda Linwood-Hemphill Senior Benefits Administrator, Chattanooga Garren Lockhart , a junior at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga majoring in mechanical engineering. Employee: Regina Raulston Business Development Manager, Chattanooga , a junior at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga majoring in mechanical engineering. Employee: Regina Raulston Business Development Manager, Chattanooga Emily Moran , a sophomore at Shepherd University majoring in nursing. Employee: Kelley Moran District Supervisor, 4th Circuit , a sophomore at Shepherd University majoring in nursing. Employee: Kelley Moran District Supervisor, 4th Circuit Brianne Pierce , a freshman at Dalton State College majoring in chemistry. Employee: Joshua Pierce Training Manager, Chattanooga , a freshman at Dalton State College majoring in chemistry. Employee: Joshua Pierce Training Manager, Chattanooga Elizabeth Silberman , a freshman at Samford University majoring in business or communications. Employee: Pat Silberman Director of Operations, Chattanooga , a freshman at Samford University majoring in business or communications. Employee: Pat Silberman Director of Operations, Chattanooga Reese Skiles, a freshman at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga majoring in business communications. Employee: Charlie Brown Academy Manager, Chattanooga About Walden Security: Walden Security is the nations 7th largest security firm, and the nations largest WBENC-certified Womens Business Enterprise specializing in security services. The company continues to grow by earning new business one customer at a timewithout mergers or acquisitionsand maintains a 97% client retention rate. Walden Security is also one of Americas only security firms with an ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System Certification, which the company has held for nearly 20 years. For five consecutive years, Walden Security earned the Training APEX award from Training magazine and is the only security company that won the award in 2022. Dedicated to business integrity, Walden Security is also a two-time winner of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics and recipient of the BBB International Torch Award for Ethics. For more information, visit waldensecurity.com. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Heather Lee, Marketing Communications Coordinator [email protected] Source: Walden Security TORONTO, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Ford government is fast tracking controversial dog train and trial compounds in Bill 91, Less Red Tape, Stronger Economy Act, 2023. Today the Bill passed Third Reading, a process that ran parallel to the Ontario Environmental Registry where Ontarians were supposed to be provided with an opportunity to comment before decisions are made. There has been a very strong public reaction to the train and trial compounds, says Liz White, Leader, Animal Protection Party of Canada. The Ontario Government has heard from a few hunting and hounding groups and presented the legislation to Ontarians as a fait accompli. The government claims that the wild animals dont get hurt. However, the legislation speaks for itself. Nowhere does it prohibit the dogs from attacking and killing the coyotes, foxes and rabbits. In fact, there are provisions in the regulations addressing injured animals. The cruelty suffered by coyotes, foxes and rabbits is ignored by Premier Ford and his party even though the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act is clear in its prohibition of such activities. The Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act prohibits animal fighting and causing animals distress and harm, all of which occurs in these train and trial compounds, observes Barry MacKay, Director, Animal Alliance of Canada. Coyotes, foxes and rabbits are trapped in these compounds and 50 or more dogs are let loose to harass, chase to exhaustion and maybe even kill them. My question to the government is this if PAWS has jurisdiction over wildlife in captivity as it pertains to wildlife rehabilitation, why not wildlife in captivity in these compounds? Coyotes in Ontario have been treated as vermin by successive governments. They are hunted 365 days of the year with no bag limits. Pups are left to die of starvation and dehydration when their parents are killed. The government does not even act on the illegal coyote killing contests, adds White. It is astounding that the 'law and order Ford government' has decided to sidestep its own anti-cruelty legislation in favour of a tiny minority of hound hunters, notes MacKay. Dogs chasing, harassing and cornering coyotes is certainly defined as dog fighting, an act that most Ontarians would not believe would ever be sanctioned by any modern government and be so out of sync with the moral values of the majority of its citizens. The governments approach on this issue is to be fully blind to the brutal realities of these compounds. Liz White, LeaderAnimal Protection Party of Canada[email protected] Barry MacKay, DirectorAnimal Alliance of Canada[email protected] Source: Animal Protection Party of Canada Ottawa, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WWF-Canada is excited to announce three award recipients of the Nature x Carbon Tech Challenge, which is catalyzing the development of cost-effective, innovative and user-friendly technologies and approaches to facilitate the community-led measurement of carbon in nature. The following organizations will be awarded $100,000 in contracts: Innovatree Carbon Group Ltd., Kamloops, B.C., for its forest carbon monitoring software. for its forest carbon monitoring software. Korotu Technology, Toronto, for its LandSteward platform that enables community forest monitoring and carbon reporting through CarbonWatch. for its LandSteward platform that enables community forest monitoring and carbon reporting through CarbonWatch. Digital Forest Lab at Laval University, Quebec City, for its Forest BIOmass measurement system, which uses 3D terrestrial LiDAR SCANning (BioScan3D) To reach the global climate targets and keep warming below 1.5 degrees, greenhouse gas emissions must be cut drastically. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has recognized the significant role that nature can play in fighting climate change, but there are historical challenges like cost and timeliness of measuring and monitoring conservation actions to ensure that the expected carbon benefit is realized. How does one measure the carbon benefit of approaches such as restoration and protection? How can it be assessed if these efforts are making any difference for climate? These were the questions that the Nature x Carbon Tech Challenge set out to answer. After piloting five technologies, WWF-Canada is pleased to announce the final award recipients who will continue to work with communities to better track the impact of conservation actions. Megan Leslie, President and CEO at WWF-Canada says, The implementation of user-friendly technologies will support the tremendous amount of conservation work, including efforts led by Indigenous Peoples and local communities across Canada. Using these technologies to measure the carbon benefits of restoring and protecting nature in Canada will support the implementation of nature-based climate solutions.It has been proven that nature is carbon, nature is habitat, and nature is a key solution. Garrett Whitworth, Director at Innovatree Carbon Group Ltd. says, This award will allow our team to provide valuable ecosystem and carbon sequestration information to First Nation communities and give us the flexibility to continue software development in a challenging and extraordinarily biodiverse coastal forest ecosystem. Agata Rudd, co-founder at Korotu Technology says, Working with WWF-Canada will help Korotu Technology accelerate the development of the technology and get it into the hands of users to help protect the climate and biodiversity. Martin Beland, Associate Professor of Environmental Remote Sensing at Laval University says, Through this award our aim is to make the technology more accessible to community users by providing low-cost access to lidar instruments, creating a software pipeline that will simplify the data processing chain, and produce reliable reports on above ground carbon.... The impact of the technologies extends far beyond this challenge by supporting community conservation efforts. Understanding the impact that the recent wildfires have had on the forest ecosystem in the interior of B.C. is critically important to successful restoration and future ecological adaptation to climate change, says Angela Kane, CEO at Secwepemculecw Restoration and Stewardship Society. Our forest carbon monitoring is building a justification for increased biodiversity across the landscape, particularly as it applies to culturally important trees and plants. WWF-Canada created the Nature x Carbon Tech Challenge as part of its 10-year strategic plan to Regenerate Canada. The plan outlines the organizations commitment to restore 1 million hectares of land, steward 100 million hectares and reduce carbon emissions by 30 million tonnes. WWF-Canadas Nature x Carbon Tech Challenge, supported by founding partner RBC Tech for Nature and national technology sponsor Microsoft, catalyzes the development of user-friendly and innovative technologies to support community-led measurement of carbon in nature. Techhub.wwf.ca Video available about project here: https://youtu.be/7zNEvVnsHqA About WWF-Canada WWF-Canada is committed to equitable and effective conservation actions that restore nature, reverse wildlife loss and fight climate change. We draw on scientific analysis and Indigenous guidance to ensure all our efforts connect to a single goal: a future where wildlife, nature and people thrive. For more information visit wwf.ca. About Innovatree Carbon Group Ltd. Innovatree has been collaboratively developed between AIB Innovation Ltd., an R&D company specializing in sustainable innovation, and Second Pass Forestry Ltd., a First Nation-owned forestry consulting company. The Innovatree software relies on LiDAR data and machine learning to calculate the carbon found in forest biomass. This technology is combined with a minimal number of field-plot inventories and produces georeferenced maps and datasets with information scaled down to the individual tree level. About Korotu Technology Korotu Technology helps communities protect natural areas to support climate and biodiversity stewardship. Korotus LandSteward platform continuously monitors and measures the forests, wetlands and grasslands communities depend on. Satellite based LiDAR and Optical Sensors allow the platforms web users to rapidly estimate and visualize heat maps of the carbon contained in nature. About the Digital Forest Lab at Laval University The team from Laval University is developing a data processing chain that utilizes data captured from terrestrial LiDAR scanners which are then used to generate 3D point clouds and estimate above-ground biomass in forests. In addition, estimations of the uncertainty are provided and allow for detailed estimates of carbon found in the above-ground biomass in any given forest. This will allow those with minimal training to measure the carbon found in forests. Attachment Rebecca Spring Senior Communications Manager [email protected] Hannah Sotropa Communications Specialist [email protected] Laurence Cayer-Desrosiers Communications Manager (French language inquiries) [email protected] Source: WWF-Canada FILE PHOTO: Jamie Dimon, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of JPMorgan Chase & Co., speaks during the event Chase for Business The Experience - Miami hosted by JP Morgan Chase Bank for small business owners at The Wharf in Miami, Florida, By Luc Cohen NEW YORK (Reuters) -A former JPMorgan Chase & Co executive wrote in a 2011 email that the late financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein should not be a client of the bank, according to a transcript of a deposition of Chief Executive Jamie Dimon seen by Reuters. Dimon said in the deposition he was not aware of the email at the time but "I know it today." Dimon also said that if the bank had known in the past what is known today about Epstein - citing, in particular, his arrest in 2019 and the 2020 conviction of his longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell on charges including sex trafficking - that he would have been terminated as a client. The largest U.S. bank faces lawsuits seeking damages by women who claim that Epstein sexually abused them, and by the U.S. Virgin Islands, where the late financier had a home. Epstein was a JPMorgan client from 2000 to 2013, remaining so after pleading guilty in 2008 to a Florida state prostitution charge. In Dimon's May 26 deposition, he was asked about the email former general counsel Stephen Cutler sent to other executives, including former private banking chief Jes Staley and Mary Erdoes, now head of asset and wealth management, calling Epstein "not a person we should do business with, period." "This is not an honorable person in any way," Cutler wrote. "He should not be a client." The email was read by a lawyer for the Virgin Islands during questioning, according to the transcript. Reuters has not seen the email itself. "Had the firm believed he was engaged in an ongoing sex trafficking operation, Epstein would not have been retained as a client," a JPMorgan spokesperson said in a statement. "In hindsight, we regret he was ever a client." Cutler did not immediately respond to a request for comment. David Boies, a lawyer for the woman known as Jane Doe who is suing the bank, said in a statement that the deposition "confirms that people at the hugest level within JP Morgan, including its general counsel, recognized that the bank was complicit in providing banking services to Epstein, but nevertheless continued to do so." In the deposition, Dimon also repeatedly denied speaking about Epstein with Staley, who was friendly with Epstein. The bank is suing Staley, arguing he should be held liable for any damages JPMorgan is forced to pay for concealing what he knew about Epstein. Staley has said he regrets his friendship with Epstein, but denied knowing about Epstein's alleged sex trafficking. His lawyers did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Wednesday. The New York Times reported on Wednesday that Erdoes said during a March deposition that she decided to dismiss Epstein as a client in 2013 because of concerns about large withdrawals from his accounts. During the deposition, Dimon said he trusted both Erdoes and Cutler and thought they were "trying to do the right thing," according to the transcript. Epstein died in 2019 in a Manhattan jail cell while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. New York City's medical examiner called the death a suicide. (Reporting by Niket Nishant in Bengaluru and Luc Cohen in New York; Editing by Saumyadeb Chakrabarty and Rosalba O'Brien) Fort Worth, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Fanboys Marketplace, the premier destination for all things geek, gaming, and pop culture, is proud to announce the launch of its Small Business Accelerator Program at its retail store in Fort Worth, Texas. This groundbreaking initiative aims to support and empower small businesses in the fan community by providing them with valuable resources, mentorship, and exposure to a passionate customer base. The Small Business Accelerator Program is a comprehensive program designed to give small businesses in the geek, gaming, and pop culture space the tools they need to thrive and grow. Selected participants will gain access to a range of benefits, including: Prime Retail Space: Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their products in Fanboys Marketplace's Fort Worth retail store, gaining exposure to a high footfall of passionate fans and collectors. Marketing Support: Fanboys Marketplace will provide dedicated marketing and promotional support to accelerate the visibility of participating small businesses. This includes targeted social media campaigns, featured spotlights, and collaborations with influencers within the fan community. Mentorship and Education: Participants will receive valuable mentorship from industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs who will provide guidance on various aspects of running a successful small business, such as branding, marketing strategies, inventory management, and customer engagement. Networking Opportunities: Small business owners will have the chance to network with fellow entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and potential collaborators, fostering valuable connections within the fan community and beyond. "We are thrilled to introduce the Small Business Accelerator Program at our Fort Worth retail store," said Mike Rogers, owner of Fanboys Marketplace. "We understand the unique challenges that small businesses face and are committed to providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed. This program exemplifies our dedication to fostering a vibrant and thriving fan community." Fanboys Marketplace invites small businesses in the geek, gaming, and pop culture space to apply for the Small Business Accelerator Program. This is an opportunity for passionate entrepreneurs to gain exposure, expand their customer base, and take their business to new heights. To learn more about the Small Business Accelerator Program and to apply, visit https://fanboysmarketplace.com/accelerator/. Fanboys Marketplace is excited to partner with small businesses and play a part in their growth and success. About Fanboys Marketplace: Fanboys Marketplace is the leading online destination for fans, collectors, and enthusiasts of all things geek, gaming, and pop culture. From merchandise and collectibles to exclusive fan experiences, Fanboys Marketplace offers a diverse range of products and services that cater to the passionate fan community. For media inquiries, please contact: Mike Rogers 817-521-6153, [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168155 London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - G2VAPE, a provider of vape solutions, is proud to announce the launch of its latest innovation: Electric Dab Rigs. These cutting-edge devices offer convenience, control, and efficiency, setting a new standard in the vaping industry designed to elevate the dabbing experience. G2VAPE's Electric Dab Rigs, represented by the flagship product DabX Go, aspire to transform how enthusiasts enjoy their concentrates. The meticulous attention to detail and extensive testing ensures a clean and satisfying experience with every use. With the palm-sized design, users can easily take their dabbing game to new heights anytime and anywhere. For a cooler and smoother dabbing experience, DabX Go features a full-sized water filtration system. G2VAPE's relentless pursuit of perfection ensures that every aspect of the device has been fine-tuned, providing users with the ultimate dabbing experience. What sets Electric Dab Rigs apart from traditional rigs is the constant innovation they bring to the table. G2VAPE's Electric Dab Rigs provide a safer alternative, eliminating the need for torch or flame heating. The precise temperature control feature allows users to enjoy their concentrates at the perfect temperature, ensuring smooth and enjoyable vaporization. Moreover, Electric Dab Rigs promote efficiency, as they conserve concentrates more effectively than traditional methods. This cost-effective solution enhances the overall vaping experience and reduces waste, making it a sustainable choice for enthusiasts. Since the company's inception, G2VAPE has been committed to pushing the boundaries of vaping technology. With the launch of the company's newest addition, Electric Dab Rigs, G2VAPE continues to deliver on its promise of innovation, convenience, and exceptional quality. The company looks forward to providing enthusiasts with the latest device that takes their dabbing experience to new heights. G2VAPE is backed by a dedicated team of experts boasting over six years of combined experience in the vaping industry. Since its establishment in 2017, the company has consistently demonstrated its commitment to excellence. Today, G2VAPE proudly holds the #1 Vape Manufacturer position in China, a testament to its advanced technology, superior products, and exceptional customer service. About the Company - G2VAPE: G2VAPE Technology Co., Ltd., established in 2017, is a leading provider of vape solutions based in Shenzhen, China. The company combines advanced technology with an experienced R&D team to deliver cost-effective solutions and unbeatable quality services to customers and the vaping industry. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, G2VAPE remains at the forefront of the vaping revolution. For further details about G2VAPE and its new Electric Dab Rigs, users can visit the following link: www.g2vape.com. Media Details: Company's Name: G2Vape Contact Person: Tony Lou Website: https://g2vape.com/ Contact Phone Number: +1-400-232-4545 Contact Email Address: [email protected] Address: 2312 Lincoln Street, London, EN3 W15 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168161 Commenced core drilling at Hercules Property Construction of logging facility completed Phase II drill program now underway, focused on the following targets: Hercules Adit and Frogpond Zones: Step-out holes aiming to extend mineralization, as well as infill and further verify historical drilling results; Hercules Rhyolite: Robust silver targets identified through surface mapping, geophysics and geochemistry, including at the Hinge, Haystack and Belmont Zones; New porphyry copper-silver (+/- gold) target: Interpreted as the center of a large zoned system and feeder for the surrounding silver (+/-lead-zinc) hosted in the Hercules Rhyolite; Large-scale untested chargeability anomaly at depth, potentially representing a large body of strong sulfide mineralization Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Hercules Silver Corp. (TSXV: BIG) (OTCQB: BADEF) (FSE: 8Q7) ("Hercules Silver" or the "Company") is pleased to report that it has mobilized an Atlas Copco CS-14 core drilling rig and commenced drilling the first hole in an extensive 6,000 meter drill program at the Company's wholly-owned Hercules Silver Property in western Idaho ("Hercules" or the "Property"). Timberline Drilling of Hayden, Idaho has been contracted to carry out the program, which will consist of step-out holes designed to test for extensions of historical mineralization, verify previous historical drilling and test a series of new targets generated by greenfields exploration. Since acquiring the project in 2021, the Company has consolidated what was historically a fragmented land package, with several different companies holding different parts of the system throughout the 1970's-1980's. An 18-month-long greenfields targeting program, consisting of mapping, soil sampling, and rock sampling, has since revealed the presence of a large zoned system, with many portions remaining to be tested, including a potentially large-scale copper-silver-gold porphyry feeder target. The Phase II drill program will not only explore multiple new surface targets but will also test the system with angled holes up to 550 meters long, significantly deeper than the average 92-meter length of historical drill holes. The drilling will be done using triple-tube barrels for enhanced recovery and a core orientation tool for attaining the strike and dip of mineralization. This will not only increase the probability of success but will also improve the efficiency of drilling operations overall. The current Phase II drill plan is illustrated in Figure 1 below. Figure 1: Phase II Drill Targets To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_d90227510480c8fa_002full.jpg Management Commentary Chris Paul, CEO and Director of the Company, noted: "We are excited to be underway on our first core drilling program at Hercules; a long-awaited milestone and the culmination of almost two years of extensive surface exploration. Exploration technology has advanced significantly since the 1980s, when economic studies were last underway following the completion of over 300 historical drill holes. At that time, a crash in the price of silver had forced the previous operators to put small-scale open pit development plans on hold. More than 30 years later, we've significantly increased the Property holdings, carried out modern, systematic exploration on the consolidated land package, and identified the presence of a much larger zoned system. Our 3D geological model suggests that the historical drilling only tapped into the shallow and distal parts of the system. We are now entering potentially the most exciting period in the history of Hercules Silver, and an important step towards delivering significant value for our shareholders." Phase II Drill Plan Summary The details of the Phase II drill plan were released on May 8, 2023 and are repeated again below for reference. Table 1: Phase II Planned Drill Holes Zone Hole ID Easting Northing Azimuth Dip Hole Length (m) HERCULES ADIT ADT-23-01 511075 4956964 80 55 80 ADT-23-02 511129 4957008 200 70 120 ADT-23-03 511129 4957008 195 82 120 ADT-23-04 511129 4957008 35 87 130 ADT-23-05 511129 4957008 20 73 160 ADT-23-06 511160 4957067 340 88 180 ADT-23-07 511160 4957067 80 76 130 ADT-23-08 511132 4957111 110 87 210 ADT-23-09 511132 4957111 110 72 200 TOTAL HERC ADIT 1330 FROGPOND FRG-23-01 511425 4956617 210 78 140 FRG-23-02 511266 4956664 31 60 60 FRG-23-03 511256 4956646 31 60 70 FRG-23-04 511231 4956637 69 69 375 FRG-23-05 511038 4956638 0 90 130 FRG-23-06 511338 4956553 30 45 100 FRG-23-07 511287 4956587 30 65 150 FRG-23-08 511338 4956554 50 52 150 TOTAL FROGPOND 1295 HINGE HNG-23-01 510895 4956812 70 45 300 HNG-23-02 511356 4956858 100 45 400 HNG-23-03 511420 4956757 250 45 100 TOTAL HINGE 800 HAYSTACK HAY-23-01 511579 4956352 50 60 400 HAY-23-02 511338 4956553 30 45 75 TOTAL HAYSTACK 475 METHENY MET-23-01 511941 4956216 50 45 550 TOTAL METHENY 550 BELMONT BEL-23-01 511447 4955609 102 45 110 BEL-23-02 511447 4955609 70 45 90 BEL-23-03 511447 4955609 152 45 100 BEL-23-04 511447 4955609 100 65 125 BEL-23-05 511833 4955730 35 60 400 TOTAL BELMONT 825 LIGHTNING LIT-23-01 512162 4955444 22 45 500 LIT-23-02 512162 4955444 65 45 500 TOTAL LIGHTNING 1000 TOTAL METERS - ALL ZONES 6,155 Silver-Lead-Zinc Targets Hercules Adit/Frogpond Zones Testing extensions of the Hercules Adit and Frogpond Zones along strike and at depth, including vertical structures and high-grade shoots which may have been missed by the vertical historical drilling. Two holes will test for the extension of a mineralized shoot that appears to have been down-dropped at the east end of the Frogpond Zone and partially intersected by historical drillhole 83-5. Hole 83-5 intersected 25.9 meters of 85 g/t Ag, 1.70% Pb and 2.09% Zn1 from 86.9 to 112.8 meters and remains open at depth and to the east. Verifying and potentially extending silver mineralization intersected at depth on the west end of the Frogpond Zone. Historical drillhole 83-16, one of the deepest holes drilled on the Property, was halted due to caving ground at 420 feet (~128 meters), with the final 7.6 meters grading 214 g/t Ag, 0.13% Pb and 0.17% Zn1. Re-entry at the time was unsuccessful, and the deep intercept was not further tested. Haystack Zone Testing mineralization discovered during a 2022 surface rock chip sampling program on the west side of the Haystack Zone, which is associated with a near-surface vertical chargeability anomaly. Testing a separate zone of mineralization at the east end of the Haystack Zone, associated with a similar near-surface vertical chargeability anomaly. A single vertical hole in the area, RDH-7, returned 16.8 meters grading 149 g/t Ag, 0.13% Pb and 0.1% Zn1. The planned hole depth is 550 meters, to also allow testing of the large-scale chargeability anomaly shown below in Figure 2. Figure 2: Vertical Section Showing Deep Drill Holes Relative to Large-Scale Chargeability Anomaly, Looking West To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_d90227510480c8fa_003full.jpg Hinge Zone Two holes within the folded hinge area of the Hercules Rhyolite, with strong rock chip sample grades and a near-surface chargeability anomaly. The holes will be drilled in opposite directions, to determine the dip of the mineralization. The eastward hole will be extended to 400 meters, to also test the large-scale chargeability anomaly shown in Figure 2 above. A potential third hole will be drilled into the fold hinge, from a quartz-alunite-dickite-pyrophyllite altered breccia zone (Photo 1) located to the west of all historical drilling. This is a unique advanced argillic alteration assemblage which typically forms a cap over epithermal and porphyry type mineralization and is not seen elsewhere on the Property. Drilling underneath this advanced argillic breccia may lead to a discovery of new mineralization. Photo 1: Quartz-Alunite-Dickite-Pyrophyllite (Advanced Argillic) Breccia To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto1.jpg Belmont Zone Up to 4 holes fanned from a single pad at the Belmont Zone, to test various mineralized structures associated with high-grade rock chip samples and a 1970 historical drill hole (DDH-6) which intersected 83 g/t Ag and 0.25% Zn over 20 metersError! Bookmark not defined. from surface and 93 g/t Ag over 8 metersError! Bookmark not defined. deeper in the hole. Porphyry Copper-Silver-Gold Targets A 400-meter hole planned in the eastern part of the Belmont Zone to test the southern end of the large-scale chargeability anomaly shown in Figure 2 above. Certain mineral systems, including porphyry coppers, are often surrounded by high-chargeability clay-sericite-pyrite halos. The hole is designed to test both the high-chargeability zone as well as potentially higher-temperature parts of the system underneath and/or adjacent to it. Metheny Zone A 550-meter hole planned at the Metheny Zone, to test a quartz-feldspar porphyry with dimensions of approximately 850 m x 550 m on surface, associated with strong copper-silver-gold grades and lenses of skarn-type mineralization (Photos 2-7). The Metheny Zone lies east of the limit of the 2022 3D IP survey, however the large-scale chargeability anomaly shown in Figure 2 is centered immediately west of - and likely projects into - the Metheny Zone. Photo 2: Quartz-Feldspar Porphyry grading 4.3% Cu, 50 g/t Ag To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto2.jpg Photo 3: Hematite altered Quartz-Feldspar Porphyry grading 1.5% Cu, 19 g/t Ag, 0.7 g/t Au To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto3.jpg Photo 4: Quartz-hematite altered Quartz-Feldspar Porphyry grading 2.9% Cu, 79 g/t Ag, 0.1 g/t Au To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto4.jpg Photo 5: Specularite altered Quartz-Feldspar Porphyry/Skarn grading 9.4% Cu, 1,085 g/t Ag, 4.5 g/t Au To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto5.jpg Photo 6: Massive specularite altered Quartz-Feldspar Porphyry/Skarn grading 0.2% Cu, 359 g/t Ag, 1.7 g/t Au To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto6.jpg Photo 7: Quartz specularite vein with colloform textured quartz matrix breccia, hosted in Quartz-Feldspar Porphyry grading 0.15% Cu, 9 g/t Ag, 1.2 g/t Au To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto7.jpg Lightning Zone Two 500-meter holes testing a strongly-altered hydrothermal breccia pipe, the Lightning Breccia, which may be a key indicator of a buried porphyry copper system. The Lightning breccia consists of hydrothermal quartz/silica clasts, brought up from depth within a surrounding matrix that's rich in oxidized sulfide mineralization (goethite) (Photos 8-12). The Lightning breccia is associated with a strong copper-gold-silver (+bismuth-tellurium-selenium) geochemical anomaly and has never been drilled. The quartz clasts may represent fragments of a silicified carapace (cap of an intrusion), which were transported upwards during an explosive brecciation event. The pipe may therefore root down into a mineralized porphyry at depth. Photo 8: Hydrothermal Breccia grading 0.3% Cu, 36 g/t Ag, 0.7 g/t Au To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto8.jpg Photo 9: Hydrothermal Breccia with high-density quartz veinlet stockwork and strong Bi-Te-Se To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto9.jpg Photo 10: Hydrothermal Breccia with quartz clasts and strong Bi-Te-Se To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto10.jpg Photo 11: Hydrothermal Breccia with quartz clasts and strong Bi-Te-Se To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9425/168115_herculesphoto11.jpg Qualified Person The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved for disclosure by Christopher Longton BS, CPG, Hercules' Vice President, Exploration. Mr. Longton is a "Qualified Person" for Hercules Silver within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). To the best of his knowledge, the technical information pertaining to the Hercules Silver Property, and discussion of it as disclosed in this news release, is neither inaccurate nor misleading. Management Update The Company also announces the resignation of Mr. Antoine Soucy-Fradette as VP Exploration of the Company effective immediately. Mr. Soucy-Fradette is leaving the Company to pursue other opportunities. The Company wishes Mr. Soucy-Fradette every success in his future endeavours and wishes to thank him for his contribution to Hercules over the past few years. About Hercules Silver Corp. Hercules Silver Corp. is a junior mining company focused on the exploration and development of the 100% owned Hercules Silver Project, northwest of Cambridge, Idaho. The Hercules project is a disseminated silver-lead-zinc system with 28,000 meters of historical drilling across 3.5 kilometers of strike. The Company is well positioned for growth through the drill bit in 2023, having completed extensive surface exploration in 2022 consisting of soil & rock sampling, geological mapping, IP geophysics, and a 9-hole drill program. The Company's management team brings significant exploration experience through the discovery and development of numerous precious metals projects worldwide. For further information please contact: Chris Paul CEO & Director Telephone +1 (604) 449-6819 Email: [email protected] This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. Any securities referred to herein have not and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws of an exemption from such registration is available. Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information This news release contains certain information that may be deemed "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information includes statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur. Although the Company believes the forward-looking information contained in this news release is reasonable based on information available on the date hereof, by its nature, forward-looking information involves assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Examples of such assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, assumptions, risks and uncertainties associated with general economic conditions; the Covid-19 pandemic; adverse industry events; the receipt of required regulatory approvals and the timing of such approvals; that the Company maintains good relationships with the communities in which it operates or proposes to operate, future legislative and regulatory developments in the mining sector; the Company's ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favorable terms; mining industry and markets in Canada and generally; the ability of the Company to implement its business strategies; competition; the risk that any of the assumptions prove not to be valid or reliable, which could result in delays, or cessation in planned work, risks associated with the interpretation of data, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits, the possibility that results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, as well as other assumptions risks and uncertainties applicable to mineral exploration and development activities and to the Company, including as set forth in the Company's public disclosure documents filed on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS PRESS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE EXPECTATIONS OF HERCULES SILVER AS OF THE DATE OF THIS PRESS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE HERCULES SILVER MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation 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. 1 The historical drilling results are historical in nature and have not been verified by a Qualified Person; therefore, they should not be unduly relied upon. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168115 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Lithium Ionic Corp. (TSXV: LTH) is pleased to announce the company is participating in the upcoming 121 Mining Investment Conference in New York City. 121 Mining Investment New York will be hosting over 80 mining companies and more than 300 sophisticated investors for two days of pre-arranged, targeted 1-2-1 meetings. This years event is being held on June 5-6. About 121 Mining Investment The 121 Mining Investment global event series connects portfolio managers and analysts from institutional funds, private equity groups and family offices with mining company management teams for 1-2-1, private in-person meetings. With each edition featuring two-days of 1-2-1 meetings matching projects to investment capital, conference programmes packed with market intelligence and investment ideas, and participation limited to investment professionals and mining executives, the 121 Mining Investment series offers a highly efficient use of time and resources. 121 Mining Investment has an ever-expanding global portfolio, currently covering London, New York, Cape Town, Las Vegas, Frankfurt, Sydney, Singapore, Melbourne and Hong Kong, as well as online editions throughout the year. Any investors who would like to attend 121 Mining Investment New York can register for a free pass here: https://hubs.la/Q01NlLpj0 About Lithium Ionic Corp. Lithium Ionic Corp. is a Canadian mining company exploring and developing its lithium properties in Brazil. Its flagship Itinga and Salinas projects cover 14,182 hectares in the northeastern part of Minas Gerais state, a mining-friendly jurisdiction that is quickly emerging as a world-class hard-rock lithium district. The Itinga Project is situated in the same region as CBLs Cachoeira lithium mine, which has produced lithium for +30 years, as well as Sigma Lithium Corp.s Grota do Cirilo project, which hosts the largest hard-rock lithium deposit in the Americas. For additional Information, please contact: Lithium Ionic Corp. Caroline Arsenault Investor Relations +1 647-316-2500 [email protected] www.lithiumionic.com BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Over 4.89 billion manat ($2.88 billion) was allocated to defense and security spending in Azerbaijan, Trend reports. This issue has been reflected in the draft law "On execution of state budget of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022", which is being discussed at the plenary session of the Azerbaijani Parliament. Of these funds, more than 1.98 billion manat ($1.16 billion) was directed to the defense forces, 300.1 million manat ($176.5 million) to national security, and 424.38 million manat ($249.6 million) to the border service. Besides, 4.1 million manat ($2.4 million) was directed to applied research in the field of defense and national security, and 2.18 billion manat ($1.28 billion) - for other activities in the field of defense and national security. In 2021, Azerbaijan's defense and national security spending totaled 4.5 billion manat ($2.6 billion). Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 30, 2023) - Luca Mining Corp. (TSXV: LUCA) is pleased to announce the company is participating in the upcoming 121 Mining Investment Conference in New York City. 121 Mining Investment New York will be hosting over 80 mining companies and more than 300 sophisticated investors for two days of pre-arranged, targeted 1-2-1 meetings. This years event is being held on June 5-6. About 121 Mining Investment The 121 Mining Investment global event series connects portfolio managers and analysts from institutional funds, private equity groups and family offices with mining company management teams for 1-2-1, private in-person meetings. With each edition featuring two-days of 1-2-1 meetings matching projects to investment capital, conference programmes packed with market intelligence and investment ideas, and participation limited to investment professionals and mining executives, the 121 Mining Investment series offers a highly efficient use of time and resources. 121 Mining Investment has an ever-expanding global portfolio, currently covering London, New York, Cape Town, Las Vegas, Frankfurt, Sydney, Singapore, Melbourne and Hong Kong, as well as online editions throughout the year. Any investors who would like to attend 121 Mining Investment New York can register for a free pass here: https://hubs.la/Q01NlLpj0 About Luca Mining Corp. Luca Mining Corp. is a Canadian based mining company with two 100% owned Mexican gold, silver, and base metal mining projects. Lucas Tahuehueto Gold Mine Project is in north-western Durango State, Mexico where construction of an initial 500 tonnes per day (tpd) operation is well advanced. The second stage, the 1000 tpd project, will follow immediately after commissioning the initial stage. The operation is generating gold, silver, lead, and zinc in concentrates. Campo Morado is an operating polymetallic base and precious metals mine currently producing at an average of 2,400 tpd, generating zinc and copper concentrates with significant precious metals credits. For additional Information, please contact: Luca Mining Corp. Ramon Perez President 604-684-8071 [email protected] www.lucamining.com Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - OBSIDIAN ENERGY LTD. (TSX: OBE) (NYSE American: OBE) ("Obsidian Energy", the "Company", "we", "us" or "our") announces an increase to our syndicated credit facility and provides an update on both the results of our first half 2023 Viking drilling program and the expected impact of Alberta wildfires on production and funds flow from operations. With the addition of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Canada) to our banking syndicate, the Company is pleased to announce an increase to our syndicated credit facility to $240 million from $200 million, successfully completing our near-term objective of enhancing our liquidity and providing more flexibility for our return of capital strategy. The revolving period and maturity dates under the syndicated credit facility remain unchanged at May 31, 2024, and May 31, 2025, respectively. As of May 29, 2023, all 11 (11.0 net) Viking wells drilled during our first half 2023 development program are on stream. The wells are still in the process of cleaning up and are currently producing at a total rate of 1,832 boe/d (85 percent oil). Additionally, Obsidian Energy commissioned the new 13-16 battery in the Viking area as part of our 2023 capital program to allow for continued growth in the expanded and delineated western region of the play. We are pleased to advise that 1,000 boe/d of the 1,750 boe/d of production impacted due to Alberta wildfires has been brought back online. The remaining 750 boe/d is expected to be on production by the end of this week. With all production impacted by the wildfires occurring in the quarter, we expect our average production to be reduced by approximately 2,100 boe/d for the second quarter of 2023, and 525 boe/d for 2023 on an annualized basis, with a corresponding reduction in funds flow from operations of approximately $6.0 million. We continue to monitor commodity prices given the recent volatility and are reviewing our plans for the remainder of the year, including the optimization of our second half capital program. RBC GLOBAL ENERGY, POWER AND INFRASTRUCTURE CONFERENCE Obsidian Energy will be participating in the RBC Global Energy, Power and Infrastructure Conference from June 6th to 7th, 2023 at the InterContinental New York Times Square in New York, NY. Stephen Loukas, President and CEO will be participating in a breakout session on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at 2:40 p.m. ET/ 12:40 p.m. MT. ANNUAL AND SPECIAL MEETING The Company's Annual and Special Meeting (the "Meeting") is scheduled for Monday, June 12, 2023, at 9:00 am (MT) at the offices of Obsidian Energy, Suite 200, 207 9 Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta. Access to the Meeting will, subject to Company's by-laws, be limited to essential personnel, registered shareholders and proxyholders entitled to attend and vote at the Meeting as well as invited guests. In association with the Meeting, our President and CEO, Stephen Loukas and other members of management will host a webcast presentation after the formal portion of the meeting at 10:00 am MT (12:00 pm ET) (the "Presentation"). The Presentation will be broadcast live on the Internet and may be accessed either through our website or directly at the webcast portal. Those who wish to listen to the Presentation should connect at least five minutes prior to the scheduled start time through the following numbers: Canada / USA: 1-800-319-4610 (toll-free) Toronto: 1-416-915-3239 Calgary: 1-403-351-0324 A question-and-answer session will be held following the Presentation. If you wish to submit a question to the Company, participants can do so ahead of time after registering on the webcast portal on the Intranet or by emailing questions to [email protected]. The updated corporate presentation and the Presentation will be available for replay on our website, www.obsidianenergy.com. Additional information about the Meeting can be found on our website. ADDITIONAL READER ADVISORIES OIL AND GAS INFORMATION ADVISORY Barrels of oil equivalent ("boe") may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one barrel of crude oil is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given that the value ratio based on the current price of crude oil as compared to natural gas is significantly different from the energy equivalency conversion ratio of 6:1, utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis is misleading as an indication of value. 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: when we expected certain production to be brought back online; our expectations regarding the impact that the wildfires will have on overall average production and funds flow from operations; our expectations at our Viking location; that we will continue to monitor commodity prices given the recent volatility and are reviewing our plans for the remainder of the year, including the optimization of our second half capital program; when our Meeting and Presentation will take place and that we will participate in the RBC Global Energy, Power and Infrastructure Conference. With respect to forward-looking statements contained in this document, the Company has made assumptions regarding, among other things: our ability to bring production back online; that there has been no damage to key assets and infrastructure; that we are able to monitor the situation by getting accurate and timely information; that we will be able to meet our production guidance projections going forward; that the new battery in the Viking area will assist in continued growth in the expanded and delineated western region of the play; 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 wildfires 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: that there is damage to the Company's key assets and infrastructure; that production will be shut-in longer than expected or have to be shut-in again as wildfires return; that overall average production and funds flow from operations impact is larger than anticipated; 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: [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168221 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Royal Road Minerals Limited (TSXV: RYR) ("Royal Road" or the "Company") announces that it has agreed to terminate all agreements governing joint exploration activities and underlying rights with and between Mineros S.A("Mineros") and related subsidiaries in Nicaragua, Argentina and Colombia. The effect of these terminations are full and final and such that Mineros shall withdraw their 50% contractual interest in the Company's Guintr-Niverengo-Margaritas (GNM) properties in Antioquia, Colombia and Royal Road shall retain a 100% of those properties and that Royal Road shall withdraw its contractual interests in the exploration strategic alliance in Nicaragua, underlying properties and royalty rights and Mineros (through its subsidiary Hemco Nicaragua S.A) shall retain 100%. Mineros and Royal Road have also agreed to annul a cooperation agreement concerning Mineros's Gualcamayo gold project in Argentina. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For further information please contact: Tim Coughlin +44 (0)1534 887166 [email protected] Cautionary statement: This news release contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements") describing the Company's future plans and the expectations of its management that a stated result or condition will occur. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, or developments in the Company's business or in the mineral resources industry, to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance, achievements or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include all disclosure regarding possible events, conditions or results of operations that is based on assumptions about, among other things, the Alliance, the intention to form a joint venture, enter into a related agreement and establish Newco and, more generally, future economic conditions and courses of action, and assumptions related to government approvals, and anticipated costs and expenditures. The words "plans", "prospective", "expect", "intend", "intends to" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, which may also include, without limitation, any statement relating to future events, conditions or circumstances. Forward-looking statements of the Company contained in this news release, which may prove to be incorrect, include, but are not limited to the Company's exploration plans. The Company cautions you not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. There is no guarantee that the anticipated benefits of the Company's business plans or operations will be achieved. The risks and uncertainties that may affect forward-looking statements include, among others: economic market conditions, anticipated costs and expenditures, government approvals, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with Canadian provincial securities regulators or other applicable regulatory authorities. Forward-looking statements included herein are based on the current plans, estimates, projections, beliefs and opinions of the Company management and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements should assumptions related to these plans, estimates, projections, beliefs and opinions change. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168156 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 31, 2023) - Universal PropTech Inc. (TSXV: UPI) (OTCQB: UPIPF) (FSE: 8LH)("UPI" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the results of matters voted on at its Annual General & Special Meeting of Shareholders held earlier today. Details of the matters put forth are set out in the notice of meeting and management information circular dated April 17, 2023. Chris Hazelton, Al Quong and Brian Presement were elected directors of the Company. MNP LLP was re-appointed auditors of the Company and the amended and restated stock option plan was re-approved. About Universal PropTech Inc. Following the sale of its operating subsidiary in the first quarter of 2023, Universal PropTech Inc. (TSXV: UPI) (OTCQB: UPIPF) (FSE: 8LH) is currently reviewing acquisitions of, or investments in businesses with rapid growth potential. Contact Information Universal PropTech Inc. Chris Hazelton President and Chief Executive Officer [email protected] (647) 300-2957 Forward-Looking Statements Certain information provided in this press release constitutes forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as "anticipate", "believe", "forecast", expect", "plan", "intend", "estimate", "propose", "project", or similar words suggesting future outcomes. The Company cautions readers and prospective investors in the Company's securities not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as, by its nature, it is based on current expectations regarding future events that involve a number of assumptions, inherent risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company. The forward-looking information included herein is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking information included herein is made as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange ("Exchange"), nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/168213 AUSTIN, Texas , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Citizens, Inc. ("Citizens" or the "Company") (NYSE: CIA), a diversified financial services company providing life, living benefits and final expense insurance, announced today that it has entered a white-label partnership with Allegiant Wealth Group ("Allegiant"), a financial services firm that helps families protect and preserve their financial future. Through this partnership, Allegiant will sell Citizens' final expense insurance products marketed as Superior Choice to its clients located throughout the United States . These products will be sold through CICA Life Insurance Company of America, a Citizens company. The partnership between Citizens, Inc. and Allegiant is a major achievement for Citizens as it strives to become the top choice for Final Expense insurance distributors. Allegiant will market Superior Choice Final Expense products through two separate distribution channels including Senior Core Benefits, a captive career-oriented agent model, and through Allegiant Wealth Group, a large independent brokerage channel. "Our collaboration with Allegiant presents a remarkable opportunity to harmonize our shared vision and unique capabilities in delivering on our customers' life insurance obligations," stated Gerald W. Shields , Vice Chairman and CEO of the company. "This latest alliance underscores our proficiency in engaging with multiple distribution channels simultaneously. We are thrilled to join forces with Wayne and his team, working together to craft tailored product solutions that cater to our clients' individual requirements." Wayne Daniel , Allegiant CEO, stated "Our partnership with Citizens building this white-label product will give our agents and agency partners throughout the U.S. a tremendous opportunity to grow their business and help their clients. We plan to market the new final expense plan to our Brokerage agency partners along with distributing to our captive career agents at CORE Senior Benefits." Wayne continued, "Working with Citizens leadership team to develop this product has been a wonderful experience. My team and I, having direct access to the CEO Gerald Shields and his executive team, have made this process easy and enjoyable. It is refreshing to work with a carrier that understands the importance of the field sales team and looks for their input to make the process better for the agent and the customer." About Citizens, Inc Citizens, Inc. (NYSE: CIA) is a diversified financial services company providing life, living benefits and final expense insurance and other financial products to individuals and small businesses in the U.S. , Latin America , and Asia . Through its customer-centric growth strategy, Citizens offers innovative products to address the evolving needs of its customers in their native languages of Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin. The company operates two primary segments: Life Insurance, where the Company is a market leader in life insurance and accident and health insurance in Spanish, Portuguese and Mandarin in the United States , Latin America , and Asia and Home Services, which operates primarily in the U.S. Gulf coast region. For more information about Citizens and CICA Life of America, please visit www.citizensinc.com. About Allegiant Wealth Group Allegiant Wealth Group is a customer-oriented insurance agency that prides itself on providing exceptional service to its clients. The agency offers a wide range of insurance products and services, and its knowledgeable team is always ready to help clients with their insurance needs. Whether clients need assistance with filing a claim, making a payment, or understanding their coverage, Allegiant Wealth Group is committed to providing top-notch support. With years of experience in the insurance industry, the agency's team has encountered a diverse range of scenarios and is well-equipped to handle any situation that may arise. More information about Allegiant Wealth Group and its services can be found at www.allegiantwealthgroup.com. For further information contact: Marketing Department [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/citizens-inc-and-allegiant-forge-strategic-partnership-to-deliver-white-label-products-to-the-fast-growing-final-expense-agency-market-301838705.html SOURCE Citizens, Inc. THUNDER BAY, ON , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Clean Air Metals Inc. ("Clean Air Metals" or the "Company") (TSXV: AIR) (FRA: CKU) (OTCQB: CLRMF) announces that it has filed its audited consolidated financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for the year ended January 31, 2023 , available for viewing on www.sedar.com . Financial Highlights Total assets as at January 31, 2023 of $42,290,356 of Total cash as at January 31, 2023 of $6,871,401 of Working capital as at January 31, 2023 of $11,684,677 of Shareholder's equity as at January 31, 2023 of $38,864,372 During the fiscal year ended January 31, 2023 as previously reported, the Company: Closed the first tranche in the amount of $10 million of a $15 million non-dilutive mineral royalty financing agreement effective Dec. 16, 2022 , with Triple Flag Precious Metals Corp. The Triple Flag royalty agreement features a 2.5-per-cent net smelter returns (NSR) mining royalty for all mineral product produced on the Thunder Bay North critical minerals (platinum, palladium, copper and nickel) project in Northern Ontario, Canada , temporarily excepting the Escape claims. Subsequent to January 31, 2023 , the Company received the second tranche of $5 million and added the Triple Flag royalty to the Escape claims. of a non-dilutive mineral royalty financing agreement effective , with The Triple Flag royalty agreement features a 2.5-per-cent net smelter returns (NSR) mining royalty for all mineral product produced on the Thunder critical minerals (platinum, palladium, copper and nickel) project in , temporarily excepting the Escape claims. Subsequent to , the Company received the second tranche of million and added the Triple Flag royalty to the Escape claims. Completed 2022 diamond drilling, including 17625 m on the Escape and 7068 m on the Current Critical Metal Deposits in November, 2022. Signed an Exploration Agreement with its First Nation Partners , the Fort William First Nation , the Red Rock Indian Band and the Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek for the Thunder Bay North Project in April, 2022. , the Fort , the and the Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek for the Thunder Bay North Project in April, 2022. Announced the closing of a $12.5 million equity and flow through private placement on strong institutional support, including Michael Gentile , CFA, in February, 2022. Financial Summary For the year ended January 31 , 2023 January 31 , 2022 Operating Expenses $ 5,565,889 $ 3,405,191 Net Loss and Comprehensive Loss (4,816,873) (2,170,832) Loss per share Basic and Diluted $ (0.02) $ (0.02) Total Assets $ 42,290,356 $ 35,059,465 Total Liabilities 3,425,984 4,027,436 Total Shareholders' Equity $ 38,864,372 $ 31,032,029 Full details of the financial reports and operating results for the year ended January 31, 2023 are described in the Company's audited consolidated financial statements with accompanying notes and related Management's Discussion and Analysis, available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. CEO Statement Abraham Drost , CEO stated, "We are pleased that due to the participation of Triple Flag Precious Metals in a royalty financing completed in December 2022 , the Company was able to minimize share dilution and remains in a sound financial position. We expect that cash on hand is sufficient to fund the Company's activities well into 2024." Grant of Incentive Stock Options The Company also announces that it has granted an aggregate of 2,032,728 incentive stock options (the "Stock Options"), subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. The Stock Options are being granted as long-term incentive awards with an exercise price of $0.08 for a period of 5 years and subject to vesting terms. Qualified Person Dr. Geoff Heggie, Ph.D., P.Geo ., a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 and Vice President - Exploration for the Company, has reviewed and approved all technical information in this press release. Social Engagement Clean Air Metals Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary Panoramic PGMs (Canada) Ltd. acknowledge that the Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project is on the traditional territories of the Fort William First Nation, Red Rock Indian Band and Biinjitiwabik Zaaging Anishinabek. The parties together are the Cooperating Participants in a Memorandum of Agreement dated January 9, 2021 (press release January 11, 2021 ) and Exploration Agreement signed April 13, 2022 (press release April 14 , 2022). The Company appreciates the opportunity to work in these territories and remains committed to the recognition and respect of those who have lived, traveled, and gathered on the lands since time immemorial. Clean Air Metals is committed to stewarding Indigenous heritage and remains committed to building, fostering and encouraging a respectful relationship with First Nations and Metis peoples based upon principles of mutual trust, respect, reciprocity and collaboration in the spirit of reconciliation. About Clean Air Metals Inc. Clean Air Metals' flagship asset is the 100% owned, high grade Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project, a platinum, palladium, copper, nickel project located near the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario and the Lac des Iles Mine owned by Impala Platinum. The Thunder Bay North Critical Minerals Project hosts the twin magma conduit bodies which host the Current and Escape deposits forming the basis for the new mineral resource estimate subsequently reported on May 4, 2023 . Executive Chair Jim Gallagher, P.Eng . and COO Mike Garbutt, P.Eng ., lead an experienced technical team studying the economics of a sustainable mining operation at Thunder Bay North. As the former CEO of North American Palladium Ltd. which owned the Lac des Iles Mine prior to the sale to Impala Platinum in December 2019, Jim Gallagher and team are credited with the mine turnaround and creation of significant value for shareholders. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS " Abraham Drost " Abraham Drost , Chief Executive Officer of Clean Air Metals Inc. 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. Cautionary Note 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: political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price 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. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements 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. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/clean-air-metals-files-audited-annual-financial-statements-for-the-year-ended-january-31-2023-301838551.html SOURCE Clean Air Metals Inc. HONG KONG , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CNOOC Limited ("the Company", SEHK: 00883, SSE: 600938) announces today that Buzios5 Project has commenced production safely. Buzios oilfield is located in the Santos Basin , southeast offshore of Brazil , with a water depth of 1,900 to 2,200 meters. It is the largest deep-water pre-salt oilfield in the world, with a daily production of about 600,000 barrels at present. Buzios5 is the fifth phase of oilfield development. It will be developed with an FPSO and subsea production system. The project has already drilled 5 producing wells and 5 injectors. These wells will produce up to 150,000 barrels of crude oil, 6 million cubic meters of natural gas and inject 220,000 barrels of water per day. The FPSO used in Buzios5 project was converted in China in July 2022 and arrived at the oilfield in February 2023 . It is able to store 1.4 million barrels of crude oil. Mr. Xia Qinglong , president of the Company, said "Buzios5 is the first project to commence production after CNOOC Limited joins Buzios project, which will inject new momentum into our overseas production growth. We adhere to win-win cooperation with the host government and partners, to jointly develop the world-class ultra-deepwater project, and to contribute to the sustainable development of Brazil's oil and gas industry, economy and society." CNOOC Petroleum Brasil Ltda , a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, holds a 7.34% interest in the Buzios Shared Reservoir , while the operator Petrobras holds 88.99%, and CNODC Brasil Petroleo e Gas Ltda holds 3.67%. -End- Notes to Editors: More information about the Company is available at http://www.cnoocltd.com . This press release includes forward looking information, including statements regarding the likely future developments in the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, such as expected future events, business prospects or financial results. The words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "objective", "ongoing", "may", "will", "project", "should", "believe", "plans", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company as of this date in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company currently believes are appropriate under the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will meet the current expectations and predictions of the Company is uncertain. Actual results, performance and financial condition may differ materially from the Company's expectations, including but not limited to those associated with fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices, macro-political and economic factors, changes in the tax and fiscal regimes of the host countries in which we operate, the highly competitive nature of the oil and natural gas industry, environmental responsibility and compliance requirements, the Company's price forecast, the exploration and development activities, mergers, acquisitions and divestments activities, HSSE and insurance policies and changes in anti-corruption, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering and corporate governance laws. Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. The Company cannot assure that the results or developments anticipated will be realised or, even if substantially realised, that they will have the expected effect on the Company, its business or operations. For further enquiries, please contact: Ms. Cui Liu Media & Public Relations CNOOC Limited Tel: +86-10-8452-6641 Fax: +86-10-8452-1441 E-mail: [email protected] Mr. Bunny Lee Porda Havas International Finance Communications Group Tel: +852 3150 6707 Fax: +852 3150 6728 E-mail: [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cnooc-limited-announces-buzios5-project-commences-production-301839395.html SOURCE CNOOC Limited PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa. , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Creditly Corp., dba Credit Genie , a digital personal finance platform that has helped more than one million Americans, announced today that it has raised $4 million in Series A financing. The funding round was led by Tippet Ventures and Khosla Ventures, with participation from Gabriel Investments. Credit Genie's innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning helps to revolutionize risk management and personalized budgeting for the financial middle class, providing them with accurate and individualized financial insights that can help improve their financial well-being. With the new funding, Credit Genie will expand products and hire top talent to scale its innovative approach to behavioral finance, budgeting and cash/credit management. The company aims to help millions of consumers access efficient credit at fair rates, using cutting-edge technology that analyzes diverse data points such as behavior, chat and qualitative indicators. This collective analysis identifies a person's desire to elevate their lifestyle and financial well-being, providing more accurate predictions and insights than traditional credit scoring methods. "We believe Creditly Corp's innovative approach to delivering financial insights and credit-related services has the potential to play a leading role in the mobile financial services space," said Andy Sheehan of Tippet Ventures. "Their technology has already demonstrated impressive results, and we are excited to support their continued growth and expansion." Credit Genie's mobile platform delivers financial insights and credit-related services that use personal transaction data instead of traditional credit data to extract financial intents and desires behind the transactions. By doing so, it provides a more comprehensive view of creditworthiness. The platform also utilizes home-grown machine learning and AI algorithms as well as "Open AI" to identify patterns and predict credit risk, resulting in more accurate credit scores and better lending decisions. In connection with the Series A financing, Credit Genie has also secured a credit facility with affiliates of Fortress Investment Group, to help it finance its cash advance and credit card receivables. "We are thrilled to have the support of such a distinguished group of investors as we work to transform the personalized finance industry," said Founder Ed Harycki . "Our mission is to provide accessible financial products and services that help consumers improve their financial wellness. The company aims to provide a more inclusive and fair credit system, regardless of their income level or credit history, that empowers individuals to achieve their financial goals." About Creditly Corp: Credit Genie is a mobile financial membership platform that empowers people to take control of their finances. Since its launch in 2022, Credit Genie has engaged with over 1 million hard-working Americans and has earned its members' trust by building a full-service digital platform to deliver financial alerts and insights, personalized budgeting, and credit-building solutions. From a single app, members can get a 360-degree snapshot of their financial lives and have access to personalized tips and products to build and improve their credit. Credit Genie is headquartered in Plymouth Meeting, PA. , and is comprised of veteran banking and payments professionals determined to build products and services that are better suited for consumers who are often overlooked by mainstream banks. For more information, visit www.creditgenie.com Contact: [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/credit-genie-secures-4-million-series-a-financing-to-expand-its-innovative-approach-to-behavioral-finance-and-personalized-budgeting-301839193.html SOURCE Creditly Corp TSX.V: DME U.S. OTC: DMEHF Frankfurt : QM01 VANCOUVER, BC , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY CORP. (the "Company") (TSXV: DME) ( U.S. OTC: DMEHF) (Frankfurt: QM01) From the President of the Company. The Company wishes to apprise shareholders that it has continued to complete planned work as previously outlined, per the use of proceeds from the last financing. "The Company is in an excellent financial position," said Robert Rohlfing , CEO of DME. "There is approximately $19.7 CDN million cash on hand with significant percentages tied up in various guaranteed interest-bearing accounts." The wells feeding the McCauley Helium Processing Facility were swabbed down with no formation water being detected. The water removed showed signs that it was from drilling and completion operations and not from the targeted formations. A full-size, helium gas tube trailer is on-site for production rather than the smaller tanks for run-up testing. As previously outlined in the use of proceeds, the Company has acquired additional heavy trucks and additional trailers. Trailers to haul the Company's produced raw crude gases are being modified to haul crude gas from our other wells to the McCauley Helium Processing Facility. The Company expects to take delivery of a workover rig, capable of swabbing and light workover functions, by the end of June 2023 . These specific vehicles were selected to help optimize and reduce the wait time to accomplish specific tasks. Our trucking company continues to improve usage performance. The signing of a long-term agreement to haul heavy gas field compression units for a major company in the four corners region and Colorado is significant. Our hydrogen drilling partner was encountering market conditions slowing their financing down. The Company had already planned for a possible contingency and will be drilling two wildcat wells, specifically targeting helium, starting towards the end of June 2023 to the middle of July 2023 . One well will be drilled on the south Winslow Prospect and the other well will be on the O'Haco leases. Both wells are located within approximately ten miles of the McCauley Helium Processing Facility. Depending on the outcome of those drilling efforts, initial production will be trucked to the McCauley Helium Processing Facility. DME anticipates drilling the shallow hydrogen/helium wells towards the end of August 2023 . The Company has continued to go forth with multiple archeological studies required for drilling and production on our state leases. This extensive work and separate permitting are required, prior to requesting actual drilling permits, from the State of Arizona Oil & Gas Conservation Commission. We are also engaged in geophysical studies across NE Arizona and other states. Those activities are in conjunction with private oil & gas companies currently drilling. The Company is not engaged or in partnership with those companies in drilling wells for hydrocarbon production. The Company expends very small monies to have independent geologists with mass spectrometers on location during drilling operations. Thus far our efforts have found the presence of helium in areas previously untested for both helium and hydrogen. Looking at the entire spectrum of elements is an established practice by the Company and provides our geological team with the maximum data by which to make decisions. The Company has identified and ordered the longest lead time components for two processing facilities. The next processing facility is planned to have liquefication capabilities in order to process the noble gases in addition to being able to sell liquified helium to meet specific customers needs. ABOUT DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY Desert Mountain Energy Corp. is a publicly traded resource company primarily focused on exploration, development and production of helium, hydrogen and noble gases. The Company is primarily looking for elements deemed critical to the renewable energy and high technology industries. We seek safe harbor "Robert Rohlfing" Robert Rohlfing Exec Chairman & CEO Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in polices of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The statements made in this press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual events or results may differ from the Company's expectations. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward looking statements and information herein include but are not limited to statements regarding the Company's anticipated performance in the future the planned exploration activities, receipt of positive results from drilling, the completion of further drilling and exploration work, and the timing and results of various activities. Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company and its operations to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include, among others, changes in national and local governments, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and the United States ; financial risks due to helium prices, operating or technical difficulties in exploration and development activities; risks and hazards and the speculative nature of resource exploration and related development; risks in obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and challenges to the Company's title to properties. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the continued operation of the Company's exploration operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company does not intend to, and nor does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking statements or information, other than as required by applicable law. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/desert-mountain-energy-provides-operations-update-301838558.html SOURCE Desert Mountain Energy Corp. VANCOUVER, BC , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wondershare, a leading global technology company, is thrilled to announce its inaugural participation as an event sponsor at the highly anticipated Dublin Tech Summit, taking place from May 31 to June 1, 2023 . During the event, the company will showcase its most popular products, including Filmora, PDFelement, EdrawMax, EdrawMind, and Virbro , which are all integrated with innovative AI technology. Wondershare aims to introduce these innovative solutions to European clients, demonstrating their capacity to accelerate growth for enterprises, creators and SMBs alike. The Dublin Tech Summit, hosted at the renowned Venue RDS in Dublin, Ireland , provides a platform for Wondershare to engage with technology enthusiasts, industry professionals, and thought leaders. Featuring "Get Work Done FAST and Unleash FURIOUS Creativity", Wondershare's exhibitor booth C1 is going to captivate visitors with a suite of intelligent tools powered by AI. It is a great opportunity for those who want to get more work done in less time for greater efficiency. One of the exciting highlights is the overseas release of Virbo, an AI video editor which allows users to generate realistic 3D digital humans with just a click. Regarding Wondershare's participation, the company's CEO Tobee Wu expresses their enthusiasm for the event and their commitment to delivering exceptional products that cater to the evolving needs of their users. "We put so much effort in advancing our products from mere functionality to enhanced experiences. The incorporation of AI-powered feature is a noticeable indication of our game-changing strategy and dedication to help individual and business users boost their work efficiency," Tobee Wu states. "As we expand our presence in the European market, we are excited to offer our products in multiple languages for users from different regions. We see enormous potential in the European market. Our network of customer service and tutorial content will efficiently onboard beginner users." In addition to showcasing the revolutionary products, Wondershare is delighted to offer exciting interactive activities and valuable prizes to attendees, including the Experience Card, Lucky Draw to win the Annual Product Free Subscription and a set of LEGO prize. About Wondershare Wondershare is globally recognized as a software company that is committed to delivering innovative solutions for personal and professional use. As a leader in creativity and productivity products, Wondershare has received prestigious awards from organizations such as The Shorty Awards, G2, and GetApp. At Wondershare, the mission is to empower individuals to pursue their passions and build a more creative world. With over 100 million users across 150 countries, users can access a wide range of software solutions for video editing (Filmora), PDF editing (PDFelement), Mind Mapping (Edraw), data recovery, diagram and graphics, and more. Together, Wondershare strives to provide high-quality, user-friendly software that enables individuals and businesses to bring their creative ideas to life. Iris Liu [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/experience-the-power-of-ai-integration-wondershares-software-suite-at-dublin-tech-summit-301839018.html SOURCE Wondershare BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Ensuring cybersecurity and protection of personal data in Azerbaijan, as in other countries, have become priority tasks at the present stage, Khayala Babayeva from the Cyber Security Service under the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport said, Trend reports. Babayeva made the remark at the 2nd National Cybersecurity Forum in Baku. According to her, the Electronic Security Service is actively working to prevent and combat cyber attacks. "The service regularly analyzes the cybersecurity situation in the country, improves public awareness, monitors information resources, and investigates offenses in the field of personal data. Phishing attacks have become the most relevant type of cyber threat for Azerbaijan, and DDoS attacks are on the rise," she noted. The banking industry is one of the main areas targeted by phishing attacks, often carried out in recent times through calls known as vishing, the official said. Babayeva also noted that the service is cooperating with mobile operators to prevent such cases. Such attacks usually take place on behalf of the technical support service of banks and fraudsters try to obtain card information and the OTP (One Time Password) code for fraudulent purposes. Social networks are also actively used by cybercriminals to carry out attacks," she explained. Besides, according to her, cybercriminals direct their efforts on citizens who place goods on shopping sites. "They deceive people by pretending to be potential buyers and asking them to enter their card account details through fake websites. After that, the funds on the card are transferred to the scammers," she added. The main objective of the forum is to facilitate collaborative discussions among partners who can contribute to the development of the national cybersecurity ecosystem. The forum is annual and held every year. Within the framework of the forum, it's planned to conduct speeches and discussions in panels called 'National cyber security ecosystem', 'Critical information infrastructure security issues', 'Cyber security solutions and startups', and 'Education and human resources in the field of cyber security'. Within the framework of the forum, it is also planned to organize panel discussions called 'Cybersecurity: in the Context of the Organization of the Turkic States' to present the work done in the member countries of the Organization of the Turkic States, as well as carry out discussions in the direction of future cooperation. Foreign experts are planned to be involved in discussions in relevant panels at the forum. ATLANTA , May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As states across the nation recently recognized the importance of saving for college with the celebration of May 29 or "529 Day" to acknowledge each state's 529 college savings plan, families in the state of Georgia reached a college savings and spending milestone this month. The state's Path2College 529 Plan officially distributed more than $2 billion for education-related expenses to families who have saved in the plan. The Path2College 529 Plan has seen record growth in recent years. "As of April 2023 , the Plan has more than 227,000 accounts and more than $4.76 billion in savings," said Georgia Student Finance Commission President Lynne Riley . Reaching the $2 billion milestone in qualified distributions means families have invested in K-12 and higher education expenses such as tuition, fees, room and board, computers and books. " Georgia's Path2College 529 Plan has empowered families to save for college and education expenses with certain tax advantages," said Riley. An advantage of saving for education through the Path2College 529 Plan is that contributors may deduct up to $8,000 per year per beneficiary for joint filers ( $4,000 for single filers) from their Georgia state income taxes on contributions made to the Plan. Any earnings on contributions grow deferred from federal and Georgia state tax. "Saving regularly over time makes a significant impact and helps build a strong financial foundation. I encourage parents and grandparents to explore the Path2College 529 website and learn more about the advantages of saving," said Riley. For more information about the Path2College 529 Plan or to open a college savings account, please visit www.Path2College529.com or call (877) 424-4377. To learn more about Georgia's Path2College 529 Plan, its investment objectives, risks and costs, please see the Plan Description at path2college529.com. Read it carefully. Investments in the Plan are neither insured nor guaranteed and there is the risk of investment loss. If the funds are not used for qualified higher education expenses, a federal 10% penalty tax on earnings (as well as federal and state income taxes) may apply. TIAA-CREF Individual & Institutional Services, LLC, Member FINRA, underwriter and distributor. FPS-2914767PR-O0423X View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/georgia-families-surpass-2-billion-spent-on-education-through-path2college-529-plan-savings-301837947.html SOURCE Path2College New Collections Open Up Access to Artwork, Historical Resources Many Never-Before Researched or Presented for Public Viewing Online by the Museum Focal Points: 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre ; 150 Years of Indigenous Painting Traditions; Artists Thomas and Mary Nimmo Moran Key Items Presented With Perspectives That Represent Creators Who Are Black, Indigenous and Female This Is Fruition of Multi-Year Research, Cataloging, Digitization Efforts Funded by Major Grants TULSA, Okla. , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Gilcrease Museum has dramatically expanded the availability of its resources online with the addition of three groundbreaking collections that provide a window into 150 years of American history and visual expression. Many of the items in these collections have never been previously researched or available for public view online. Representing the addition of more than 4,600 items in the Gilcrease Museum online resources, the collections are: Eddie Faye Gates Tulsa Race Massacre Collection; Collection; Indigenous Paintings at Gilcrease Museum ; and ; and Thomas and Mary Nimmo Moran Collection at Gilcrease Museum . Together, they are the fruition of multi-year projects funded by two grants to Gilcrease Museum from the Henry Luce Foundation and the Institute of Museum and Library Services that totaled almost $1.2 million . Gilcrease Museum launches these collections providing online access around the world to scholars, students and lovers of art, history and culture at a time when its primary brick-and-mortar presence has been razed and construction is under way on a new facility. "This is an amazing opportunity to throw the doors wide open for everyone to experience these important collections virtually while we construct a new Gilcrease Museum that will once again welcome in-person visitors from around the world for exhibits and experiences," says Susan Neal , the museum's executive director. The new Gilcrease Museum, sited on the same land in the rolling Osage Hills near downtown Tulsa where Thomas Gilcrease established the museum in 1949, is designed to better protect its priceless collection of American art and history artifacts to provide an enhanced visitor experience. Tulsa voters on Aug. 8 will have the opportunity to approve $10 million in matching funds for the new facility as part of a broader "Improve Our Tulsa" funding package. "On behalf of the City of Tulsa , which owns Gilcrease Museum, we are honored to share with the world these works of art, artifacts and objects that help inform the story of the people, the places and events that have shaped America," Neal says. "These collections with a diverse focus ranging from the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre to Indigenous paintings and an overlooked, 19th-century female artist all bring to the forefront voices and perspectives that have long been under-represented in museums, including ours, and in the stories on which history has been written. "Many of the works that are now available are making their debut online. These collections represent a monumental moment in Gilcrease Museum's quest to make our important and unique collections accessible and known as they never have been," Neal says. Here are snapshots of the new collections: Eddie Faye Gates Tulsa Race Massacre Collection The collection was a 2020 gift from the Eddie Faye Gates family. Gates was a researcher, author, historian, educator and community activist whose life's work provides an invaluable window into the lived experiences of Black North Tulsans from the early 20th century to approximately 2010. Gates died in December 2021 , a little more than six months after the Tulsa Race Massacre centennial. The initial portion of the collection that is available online features more than 700 photos and 42 hours of video, including Gates' interviews with survivors of the May 31-June 1, 1921 , Tulsa Race Massacre and other community members with stories of North Tulsa history. In the spirit of Gates' long tenure as a public-school educator, an integral component of the online content is newly created teaching resource guides. The free guides, which use components from the collection, are designed for classroom teachers at four different levels from kindergarten through high school. A selection of photos in the collection benefits from community-generated tagging identifications of people, places and events created by pairs of elders, many of whom knew Eddie Faye Gates , and high-school students from the North Tulsa community. The teams performed tagging online, using custom software that Gilcrease expects to continue to use as it expands the participation of the North Tulsa community in providing context for more photos. For more detail about the Eddie Faye Gates Tulsa Race Massacre collection, visit the Gilcrease Museum website. Also, see this linked collection-highlights document with background information and selected images. Indigenous Paintings at Gilcrease Museum This Luce Foundation funded project includes 47 Indigenous artists and 1,500 paintings many never researched or imaged since they became part of the Gilcrease Museum collection. Eighty paintings are accompanied by essays that are the result of new research to provide Indigenous perspectives and interpretations. The Gilcrease Museum research includes extensive input largely gathered through oral interviews from the artists, their relatives or tribes. As well, there are 10 biographies of Indigenous painters, providing further context to their life and work. They are Norman Akers , Woody Big Bow , Jim Lacy Red Corn , Brummett Echohawk , Joan Hill , Ruthe Blalock Jones , Stephen Mopope , Narcissa Chisholm Owen , Lois Smokey / Bou-ge-Tah, and Marian Terasaz. As designed, this project serves as a catalyst for Gilcrease Museum as well as other curators, scholars, Indigenous communities and artists to rethink the role of culture, history, and identity in the study and display of Indigenous arts. For more detail about the Indigenous Paintings at Gilcrease Museum collection visit the Gilcrease Museum website. Also, see this linked collection-highlights document with background information and selected images. Thomas and Mary Nimmo Moran Collection at Gilcrease Museum Gilcrease Museum holds the largest and most comprehensive collections of the work of Thomas Moran and his wife, Mary Nimmo Moran , two significant American artists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. For the first time, the entirety of Gilcrease Museum's Moran collection is available online. The collection includes 2,375 items, among which are oil paintings, watercolors, drawings, etchings, personal sketchbooks, letters, diaries and photographs. The Moran collection is an essential resource for understanding Thomas and Mary Nimmo and many issues of their time, offering a wealth of avenues for investigating their varied art and its implications. Of particular interest in this collection is the introduction of a significant body of work by Mary Nimmo Moran . She enjoyed recognition for her printmaking during the American etching revival of the 1880s and 1890s and was the first woman to join professional etching societies in New York and London . But, beyond her lifetime, she has been little-known and largely overshadowed by her husband who achieved fame with his portrayals of the American West. The online collection includes essays on 90 artworks that curators selected for focused study and analysis. The essays provide aesthetic, historical and personal context. In a few instances, the research uncovered details that resulted in corrections to broadly accepted identifications of artwork subjects and locations. For more detail about the Thomas and Mary Nimmo Moran Collection at Gilcrease Museum collection visit the Gilcrease Museum website. Also, see this linked collection-highlights document with background information and selected images. More About Gilcrease Museum Online Resources Gilcrease Museum's online collection includes more than 30,000 publicly accessible objects from its more than 350,000 collection items. Efforts to digitize the collection began in 2013. Many images from these projects are available for closer inspection using download and zoom features. The online collection is dynamic continually expanding not only in the number of items, but also in the quantity and quality of information about existing items. About Gilcrease Museum The Thomas Gilcrease Institute of American History and Art, known as Gilcrease Museum, is known for its comprehensive collection of the art, culture and history of North America . The museum, located in Tulsa, Okla. , is owned by the City of Tulsa and managed by the University of Tulsa. Thomas Gilcrease, a citizen of the Muscogee Nation, established Gilcrease Museum in 1949. Today the interdisciplinary collection contains more than 350,000 items. The museum represents hundreds of Indigenous cultures from across North and South America , with material culture and archaeology ranging from 12,000 BCE to the 21st century. The collection includes more than 350 years of American paintings, sculptures and works on paper, including the largest public holdings of art of the American West. The Helmerich Center for American Research, a critical part of the Gilcrease campus, hosts researchers, students, faculty and fellowships from throughout the country to conduct research on the Gilcrease Library and Archive, which has been housed in the Center since 2014. The collection is comprised of manuscripts, photographs, maps, rare books, print portfolios and broadsides related to the history of the North American continent from the 15th through the 20th centuries. Gilcrease Museum is closed during construction of a new structure designed to provide better protection of its priceless and vast collection and an enhanced visitor experience at the same site near downtown Tulsa where the original museum stood. More About the Grants That Funded These Projects The Henry Luce Foundation in 2019 awarded Gilcrease Museum a $890,000 grant for the work referenced here on the Indigenous Paintings and Thomas and Mary Nimmo Moran collections. The Institute of Museum and Library Services in 2020 awarded Gilcrease Museum a $299,710 grant (CAGML-247978-OMLS-20) for work on the Eddie Faye Gates Tulsa Race Massacre Collection with a focus on bringing online access to photos and videos, community engagement, as well as the creation of educational materials. The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations do not necessarily represent those of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gilcrease-museum-launches-3-groundbreaking-collections-that-bring-diverse-catalog-of-4-600-items-new-perspectives-to-audiences-online-301839267.html SOURCE Gilcrease Museum Shares Outstanding: 326,138,511 Trading Symbols: TSX: GGD OTCQX: GLGDF 1,126 g/t AgEq over 50.0m including 7.8m of 6,334 g/t AgEq including 0.8m of 46,822 g/t AgEq HALIFAX, NS , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - GoGold Resources Inc. (TSX: GGD) (OTCQX: GLGDF) ("GoGold", "the Company") is pleased to announce additional drilling results from Los Ricos South, within the Eagle Deposit, including an exceptionally wide, high-grade intercept from hole LRGAG-22-165. The hole intercepted 50.0m of 1,126 g/t silver equivalent ("AgEq"), including 7.8m of 6,334 g/t AgEq which also included a very high-grade interval of 46,822 g/t AgEq over 0.8m. This is one of the best holes drilled to date within the Los Ricos district. See Table 1 for breakdown of silver and gold values. "We continue to intercept wide zones of high grades at the Los Ricos South Eagle deposit. We anticipate that results like these will could add significantly to our upcoming revised resource and preliminary economic assessment to be completed this summer," said Brad Langille , President and CEO. "We continue to execute on the objectives that we laid out for 2023 in our January press release. The next milestones will be our updated resource and preliminary economic assessment in Los Ricos South to be followed by a pre-feasibility study to be completed before year end." Table 1: Drill Hole Intersections Hole ID Area / Vein From To Length1 Au Ag AuEq2 AgEq2 (m) (m) (m) (g/t) (g/t) (g/t) (g/t) LRGAG-22-163 Eagle 117.5 132.5 15.0 0.78 92.3 2.01 150.5 including 125.9 129.7 3.8 1.40 200.3 4.07 305.5 LRGAG-22-164 Eagle 199.0 221.1 22.1 3.21 32.6 3.64 273.0 including 214.3 217.5 3.2 20.21 86.8 21.37 1,602.9 LRGAG-22-165 Eagle 110.9 160.9 50.0 4.61 780.2 15.01 1,125.9 including 117.7 125.5 7.8 22.90 4,616.9 84.45 6,334.1 including 119.6 122.5 2.9 59.98 11,858.2 218.09 16,357.0 including 121.8 122.5 0.8 201.00 31,747.0 624.29 46,822.0 LRGAG-22-166 Eagle 118.7 127.8 9.1 3.08 199.5 5.75 430.9 including 119.2 120.6 1.3 8.12 609.9 16.25 1,219.1 and 141.5 151.6 10.1 2.32 114.6 3.85 288.9 LRGAG-22-167 Eagle 135.3 150.8 15.5 2.16 102.3 3.53 264.6 including 139.0 139.8 0.8 18.60 76.0 19.61 1,471.0 LRGAG-22-168 Eagle 99.8 102.0 2.3 2.56 75.8 3.57 267.6 and 132.9 138.0 5.1 2.12 226.3 5.14 385.3 LRGAG-22-169 Eagle 55.4 99.9 44.5 1.51 52.3 2.21 165.5 including 84.7 99.2 14.5 3.78 47.3 4.41 331.1 including 85.9 87.1 1.3 18.38 105.9 19.80 1,484.7 LRGAG-22-170 Eagle 139.7 145.1 5.4 0.87 99.3 2.19 164.2 including 142.2 144.1 1.9 2.23 230.1 5.29 397.1 LRGAG-22-171 Eagle 172.6 182.5 9.9 2.00 78.5 3.04 228.1 including 180.4 182.5 2.2 5.43 107.0 6.86 514.6 LRGAG-22-172 Eagle 155.3 209.1 53.8 3.27 123.8 4.92 369.3 including 165.6 185.0 19.4 8.09 193.1 10.67 800.1 including 166.1 171.3 5.2 13.72 288.8 17.57 1,317.7 LRGAG-22-173 Eagle 107.8 148.2 40.5 3.67 281.6 7.43 556.9 including 108.7 112.7 4.1 5.35 1,267.0 22.24 1,668.0 including 108.7 110.1 1.4 8.90 1,878.9 33.95 2,546.5 including 142.6 143.6 1.0 11.80 1,430.0 30.87 2,315.0 LRGAG-22-174 Eagle 95.9 102.8 6.9 1.23 197.3 3.86 289.9 including 99.3 100.3 1.0 3.45 454.0 9.50 712.8 LRGAG-22-175 Eagle 72.5 83.7 11.2 1.55 50.2 2.22 166.6 including 75.2 76.4 1.2 4.11 55.4 4.85 363.6 LRGAG-22-176 Eagle 131.5 147.3 15.9 2.54 119.8 4.14 310.5 including 141.9 143.5 1.6 9.03 627.5 17.40 1,304.8 LRGAG-22-177 Eagle 133.7 165.3 31.7 1.21 145.3 3.15 236.0 including 154.8 164.6 9.8 3.03 392.8 8.27 619.9 including 160.7 163.0 2.3 10.15 1,357.2 28.25 2,118.4 1. Not true width 2. AgEq converted using a silver to gold ratio of 75:1 at recoveries of 100% The Eagle Deposit adjoins the Main Deposit and represents a northern extension of the previously defined Mineral Resource Estimate in the Los Ricos South PEA. The Eagle concession covers 1,107 hectares, including the area between the Main Deposit and the Company's Jamaica concession located 3km to the northwest, where the Company holds the rights to additional concessions. Drilling at the Eagle has returned the highest grade intercepts to date in the district. These wide high-grade intercepts are consistent with geophysical targets on the new concession. Figure 3, above, provides a summary of the Los Ricos District , including both the Los Ricos North and Los Ricos South projects. The map includes an outline of the concession areas and a summary of the current Mineral Resource Estimates ("MRE") on the projects, as well as stars locating each of the deposits included within the current MREs. Table 2: Drill Hole Locations Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Length LRGAG-22-163 609965 2328563 1261 50 -52 165 LRGAG-22-164 610009 2328368 1269 50 -75 279 LRGAG-22-165 610058 2328443 1278 50 -84 187 LRGAG-22-166 610033 2328438 1269 50 -74 176 LRGAG-22-167 609964 2328562 1260 50 -72 187 LRGAG-22-168 610033 2328437 1269 50 -80 195 LRGAG-22-169 610061 2328412 1282 50 -45 159 LRGAG-22-170 609973 2328501 1254 50 -66 181 LRGAG-22-171 610029 2328417 1270 50 -78 227 LRGAG-22-172 610037 2328361 1279 50 -80 260 LRGAG-22-173 610060 2328411 1282 50 -76 199 LRGAG-23-174 610009 2328500 1261 50 -73 162 LRGAG-23-175 610053 2328537 1274 50 -76 135 LRGAG-23-176 609958 2328621 1268 50 -75 187 LRGAG-23-177 609945 2328511 1250 50 -68 199 VRIFY Slide Deck and 3D Presentation VRIFY is a platform being used by companies to communicate with investors using 360 virtual tours of remote mining assets, 3D models and interactive presentations. VRIFY can be accessed by website and with the VRIFY iOS and Android apps. The VRIFY 3D Slide Deck for GoGold can be viewed at: https://vrify.com/companies/gogold-resources-inc and on the Company's website at: www.gogoldresources.com. Los Ricos District Exploration Projects The Company's two exploration projects at its Los Ricos Property are in Jalisco state, Mexico . The Los Ricos South Project began in March 2019 and an initial Mineral Resource was announced on July 29, 2020 , which disclosed a Measured & Indicated Mineral Resource of 63.7 million ounces AgEq grading 199 g/t AgEq contained in 10.0 million tonnes, and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 19.9 million ounces AgEq grading 190 g/t AgEq contained in 3.3 million tonnes. An initial PEA on the project was announced on January 20, 2021 , indicating an NPV 5% of US$295M . The Eagle Concession was acquired in October 2022 and is adjacent to the Main Area which contains the initial Mineral Resource. The Los Ricos North Project was launched in March 2020 and an initial Mineral Resource was announced on December 7, 2021 , which disclosed an Indicated Mineral Resource of 87.8 million ounces AgEq grading 122 g/t AgEq contained in 22.3 million tonnes, and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 73.2 million ounces AgEq grading 111 g/t AgEq contained in 20.5 million tonnes. An initial PEA on the project was announced on May 17, 2023 , indicating an NPV 5% of US$413M . Procedure, Quality Assurance / Quality Control and Data Verification The diamond drill core (HQ size) is geologically logged, photographed and marked for sampling. When the sample lengths are determined, the full core is sawn with a diamond blade core saw with one half of the core being bagged and tagged for assay. The remaining half portion is returned to the core trays for storage and/or for metallurgical test work. The sealed and tagged sample bags are transported to the ALS Chemex facility in Guadalajara, Mexico . ALS Chemex crushes the samples and prepares 200-300 gram pulp samples with ninety percent passing Tyler 150 mesh (106m). The pulps are assayed for gold using a 30-gram charge by fire assay (Code AA23) and over limits greater than 10 grams per tonne are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code ME-GRAV21). Silver and multi-element analysis is completed using total digestion (Code ME-ICP61 Total Digestion ICP). Over limits greater than 100 grams per tonne silver are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (ME-GRA21). Quality assurance and quality control ("QA/QC") procedures monitor the chain-of-custody of the samples and includes the systematic insertion and monitoring of appropriate reference materials (certified standards, blanks and duplicates) into the sample strings. The results of the assaying of the QA/QC material included in each batch are tracked to ensure the integrity of the assay data. All results stated in this announcement have passed GoGold's QA/QC protocols. Mr. David Duncan , P. Geo . is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and is responsible for the technical information of this release. About GoGold Resources GoGold Resources (TSX: GGD) is a Canadian-based silver and gold producer focused on operating, developing, exploring and acquiring high quality projects in Mexico. The Company operates the Parral Tailings mine in the state of Chihuahua and has the Los Ricos South and Los Ricos North exploration projects in the state of Jalisco . Headquartered in Halifax, NS , GoGold is building a portfolio of low cost, high margin projects. For more information visit gogoldresources.com. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT: The securities described herein 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 benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy of any of GoGold's securities in the United States . This news release may contain "forward-looking information" as defined in applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Los Ricos South and North projects, and future plans and objectives of GoGold, including the intention to undertake further exploration at Los Ricos North, and the prospect of further discoveries there, constitute forward looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking information is based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such information but which may prove to be incorrect, including, but not limited to, assumptions in connection with the continuance of GoGold and its subsidiaries as a going concern, general economic and market conditions, mineral prices, the accuracy of mineral resource estimates, and the performance of the Parral project. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from GoGold's expectations include exploration and development risks associated with GoGold's projects, the failure to establish estimated mineral resources or mineral reserves, volatility of commodity prices, variations of recovery rates, and global economic conditions. For additional information with respect to risk factors applicable to GoGold, reference should be made to GoGold's continuous disclosure materials filed from time to time with securities regulators, including, but not limited to, GoGold's Annual Information Form. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date of this release. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gogold-intercepts-high-grade-at-los-ricos-south-301838207.html SOURCE GoGold Resources Inc. LONDON , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading online Travel Agent eDreams' latest poll* reveals the effects of travel on our state of mind, and what most strongly supports our mental wellbeing when we make a trip. The results show that the majority of respondents globally report a 'very positive' or 'quite positive' impact vacations have on their mental wellbeing. 63% of all respondents globally report that holidays a 'very positive' impact on their mental wellbeing, with a further 29% reporting a 'quite positive' impact - a total of 92% 42% and 39% of American respondents self-report a 'very' and 'quite' positive effect - a total of 81% The most positive psychological effect of vacation travel reported by American travelers was from those in the Northeast, including states like New York , Connecticut , and Maine (58%), with 48% from the Midwest reporting a 'quite positive' effect. , , and (58%), with 48% from the Midwest reporting a 'quite positive' effect. In the US, those aged 18-24 reported the highest percentage (61%) of 'very positive' effects of holiday travel, while those aged 25-34 reported a 'quite positive' effect (44%). Portuguese (79%) and Italians (78%) are the highest percentage of travelers to rank its effects as 'very positive' The poll also asked which activities most supported mental wellbeing while on vacation. The overwhelming majority - 42% globally - cite ' relaxing and doing nothing ' as being the most beneficial of all activities, followed by sightseeing (35%) and reading (19%). ' as being the most beneficial of all activities, followed by sightseeing (35%) and reading (19%). Americans noted similar top choices, but opt out of reading for more social and adventurous activities. relax and do nothing 23% sightseeing 22% meeting new people 21% 21% of US respondents ranked meeting new people the 3rd most beneficial holiday activity, compared to 12% from Spain and Germany and 13% from the UK . the 3rd most beneficial holiday activity, compared to 12% from and and 13% from the . In the US, 20% of those from the Northeast reported doing yoga or meditation as their third most important source of mental wellbeing while on vacation. as their third most important source of mental wellbeing while on vacation. 24% of global respondents aged 18-24 derive mental benefits from adventurous activities , compared to just 14% of those aged 45-54. , compared to just 14% of those aged 45-54. 34% of Americans in the age group (55-64) report the positive effects of sightseeing while on vacation as contributing to their mental health- compared to just 20% of those aged 25-34. For more information contact the press team at Grifco PR: [email protected] *Methodology Survey conducted for eDreams ODIGEO by OnePoll of 10,000 travelers from Italy , Spain , the United States , the United Kingdom , Sweden , Portugal , Germany , and France . In the USA the survey was conducted among a sample of 2,000 respondents from March 14 to 20, 2023 . About eDreams eDreams is part of the eDreams ODIGEO Group, one of the world's largest online travel companies serving 20 million customers globally. The business conceptualized Prime, the first subscription product in the travel sector which has attracted more than 4.6 million members since launching in 2017. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/how-does-travel-affect-our-mental-health-according-to-edreams-301838897.html SOURCE eDreams ODIGEO NEO: SHWZ OTCQX: SHWZ DENVER , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Medicine Man Technologies, Inc., operating as Schwazze, (OTCQX: SHWZ) (NEO: SHWZ) ("Schwazze" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce the promotion of its President, Nirup Krishnamurthy , to the role of Chief Executive Officer. Justin Dye the company's former Chief Executive Officer and Executive Chairman will continue to lead the Board of Directors (the "Board") as its non-executive Chairman. This appointment is part of a succession planning process that began nearly a year ago when Justin Dye , the CEO and Executive Chairman, informed the Board of his desire to transition into a Chairman role. Nirup was handpicked by Justin as his successor with the full support of the Company's Board and was promoted to President of Schwazze in October of 2022 to enable the transition. Over the past eight months, Justin has worked with Nirup to successfully transition daily operations. As President, Nirup has been steering the Company's day-to-day operations, spearheading the Colorado and New Mexico growth initiatives, driving efficiencies to further enhance margins, and bolstering the Schwazze team. Nirup joined Schwazze in 2020 when there were less than 20 employees and has played a pivotal role in helping to build the Company to the leading player in its region with $170mm of revenue, $59 million of EBITDA, and over 725 employees today. He brings more than 30 years of experience in operations, M&A, innovation, and technology at Fortune 500 companies. Nirup previously held C-level transformational roles with United Airlines, Northern Trust Bank, and the national grocery retailer A&P. He holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and a doctorate in Industrial Engineering from State University of New York, Buffalo. Justin Dye , Chairman stated: "I am very pleased to announce Nirup's appointment as the Chief Executive Officer of Schwazze. Nirup has delivered results and been a strong leader for the Company. There will be continuity of strategy under Nirup's leadership, which I am confident will result in our continued growth. On behalf of Schwazze's Board of Directors, we look forward to supporting Nirup and the team in our drive to become the most admired cannabis company in the industry. I also plan to do everything I can as non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors to maximize shareholder value at Schwazze." "Over the past four years, Justin's vision and leadership has transformed Schwazze into one of the best cannabis operators in the industry. His passion for the business has motivated me and the management team to thrive under tough conditions. In my capacity as CEO, I look forward to leading and supporting the Schwazze team members as they strive to deliver value to our customers, employees, and shareholders", said Nirup Krishnamurthy , CEO. "Our strategic vision will continue to center around going deep in our current markets of Colorado and New Mexico , while exploring the potential to add a small number of select markets in the future. High-quality product assortment coupled with great customer service will remain the foundation of our retail philosophy, and we will continue to invest in our own house of brands and pursue responsible M&A." Since April 2020 , Schwazze has acquired, opened, or announced the planned acquisition of 60 cannabis retail dispensaries (bannered as Star Buds, Emerald Fields , R. Greenleaf , Standing Akimbo, and Everest) as well as eight cultivation facilities and three manufacturing plants across Colorado and New Mexico . In May 2021 , Schwazze launched its Biosciences division, and in August 2021 it commenced home delivery services in Colorado . About Schwazze Schwazze (OTCQX: SHWZ) (NEO: SHWZ) is building a premier vertically integrated regional cannabis company with assets in Colorado and New Mexico and will continue to take its operating system to other states where it can develop a differentiated regional leadership position. Schwazze is the parent company of a portfolio of leading cannabis businesses and brands spanning seed to sale. The Company is committed to unlocking the full potential of the cannabis plant to improve the human condition. Schwazze is anchored by a high-performance culture that combines customer-centric thinking and data science to test, measure, and drive decisions and outcomes. The Company's leadership team has deep expertise in retailing, wholesaling, and building consumer brands at Fortune 500 companies as well as in the cannabis sector. Schwazze is passionate about making a difference in our communities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and doing our part to incorporate climate-conscious best practices. Medicine Man Technologies, Inc. was Schwazze's former operating trade name. The corporate entity continues to be named Medicine Man Technologies, Inc. Schwazze derives its name from the pruning technique of a cannabis plant to enhance plant structure and promote healthy growth. To learn more about Schwazze, visit www.Schwazze.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements." Such statements may be preceded by the words "may," "will," "could," "would," "should," "expect," "intends," "plans," "strategy," "prospects," "anticipate," "believe," "approximately," "estimate," "predict," "project," "potential," "continue," "ongoing," or the negative of these terms or other words of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future events or future operating or financial performance, although the absence of these words does not necessarily mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, are based on certain assumptions, and are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control and cannot be predicted or quantified. Consequently, actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with (i) regulatory limitations on our products and services and the uncertainty in the application of federal, state, and local laws to our business, and any changes in such laws; (ii) our ability to manufacture our products and product candidates on a commercial scale on our own or in collaboration with third parties; (iii) our ability to identify, consummate, and integrate anticipated acquisitions; (iv) general industry and economic conditions; (v) our ability to access adequate capital upon terms and conditions that are acceptable to us; (vi) our ability to pay interest and principal on outstanding debt when due; (vii) volatility in credit and market conditions; (viii) the loss of one or more key executives or other key employees; and (ix) other risks and uncertainties related to the cannabis market and our business strategy. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is set forth in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as required by law. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/multi-state-cannabis-operator-schwazze-promotes-nirup-krishnamurthy-to-chief-executive-officer-301839168.html SOURCE Medicine Man Technologies, Inc. DALLAS , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NexPoint Residential Trust, Inc. ("NXRT" or the "Company") (NYSE: NXRT) announced today that Brian Mitts , NXRT's Chief Financial Officer, Executive VP-Finance, Secretary and Treasurer, Matthew McGraner , NXRT's Executive VP and Chief Investment Officer, and Bonner McDermett , NXRT's VP, Asset Management, will be meeting with investors and others at Nareit's REITweek: 2023 Investor Conference, to be held June 6-8 at the New York Hilton Midtown in New York City . A copy of the meeting materials will be posted in the Resources section of NXRT's website at nxrt.nexpoint.com on the morning of June 6, 2023 . About NXRT NexPoint Residential Trust is a publicly traded REIT, with its shares listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "NXRT," primarily focused on acquiring, owning and operating well-located middle-income multifamily properties with "value-add" potential in large cities and suburban submarkets of large cities, primarily in the Southeastern and Southwestern United States . NXRT is externally advised by NexPoint Real Estate Advisors, L.P., an affiliate of NexPoint Advisors, L.P., an SEC-registered investment advisor, which has extensive real estate experience. More information about the Company is available at http://www.nxrt.nexpoint.com. CONTACTS Investor Relations Kristen Thomas [email protected] Media Relations Prosek Partners for NexPoint [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nexpoint-residential-trust-inc-to-participate-at-nareits-reitweek-2023-investor-conference-301839345.html SOURCE NexPoint Residential Trust, Inc. TORONTO , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Nickel Creek Platinum Corp. (TSX: NCP) ("Nickel Creek" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the results of its annual general meeting of shareholders (the "AGM") that was held on May 31, 2023 . All of the following business items were approved at the AGM by the requisite majority of shareholder votes cast at the meeting: setting the size of the Board of Directors at seven; electing each management-nominated director; and appointing PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as Nickel Creek's auditor The seven directors of Nickel Creek elected at the AGM are: Michele S. Darling , Mark Fields , Stuart Harshaw , Wayne Kirk , Myron G. Manternach , David Peat and Michel (Mike) Sylvestre . Votes for the directors were cast as follows: Director Votes For Votes Withheld Percent For Percent Withheld Michele S. Darling 217,525,825 1,794,599 99.18 % 0.82 % Mark Fields 217,504,684 1,815,740 99.17 % 0.83 % Stuart Harshaw 217,324,250 1,996,174 99.09 % 0.91 % Wayne Kirk 193,819,051 25,501,373 88.37 % 11.63 % Myron G. Manternach 214,837,710 4,482,714 97.96 % 2.04 % David Peat 217,440,755 1,879,669 99.14 % 0.86 % Michel (Mike) Sylvestre 214,513,275 4,807,149 97.81 % 2.19 % About Nickel Creek Platinum Corp . Nickel Creek Platinum Corp. (TSX: NCP; OTCQB: NCPCF) is a Canadian mining exploration and development company and its flagship asset is its 100%-owned Nickel Shaw Project. The Nickel Shaw Project is a large undeveloped nickel sulphide project with a unique mix of metals including copper, cobalt and platinum group metals, located in the Yukon, Canada , one of the most favourable jurisdictions in the world. The Nickel Shaw Project has exceptional access to infrastructure, located three hours west of Whitehorse via the paved Alaska Highway , which further offers year-round access to deep-sea shipping ports in southern Alaska . The Company is led by a management team with a proven track record of successful discovery, development, financing and operation of large-scale projects. Our vision is to create value for our shareholders by becoming a leading North American nickel, copper, cobalt and PGM producer. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nickel-creek-platinum-announces-results-of-2023-annual-general-meeting-301839236.html SOURCE Nickel Creek Platinum Corp. Proven Global Brand with Over Two Decades of Experience Identifies Market As A Prime Spot For Entrepreneurship Through Music CANTON, Mass. , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- School of Rock , the leader in performance-based music education with over 330 schools across 15 global markets, is looking to expand its presence in Orange County, CA. "With over 3 million residents, Orange County is the third-largest county in California and the sixth most populous county in the U.S. , offering a thriving economy and job market that present ample opportunities for small businesses to succeed," said Rob Price , CEO of School of Rock. "In addition, the area's rich music history and diverse music scene, which includes iconic venues and world-renowned festivals, serve as an ideal foundation for our presence in the community. We look forward to contributing to this vibrant culture by providing a space where young musicians can come together to learn, grow and express themselves through the power of music." School of Rock provides students of all ages an exciting and engaging music education experience, which includes bass lessons , guitar lessons , singing lessons , drum lessons , and piano lessons . Drawing from all styles of rock and roll, School of Rock students learn theory and techniques via songs from legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin , Lenny Kravitz and Led Zeppelin. Thanks to the school's patented performance-based approach, students around the world have gained superior musical proficiency, with some moving on to record deals and larger platforms such as American Idol, The Voice and Broadway . With more than two decades of experience, School of Rock offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to quickly plug into a global brand with a proven business model. Through the power of music, prospective franchise investors have the ability to positively impact the lives of their students and their community as a whole. "Opening our location with School of Rock was a seamless experience," said Chris Kopp , owner of School of Rock Santa Ana. "From clear expectations and support from regional managers and the corporate team, to the exceptional community of fellow franchisees, School of Rock provides the consistent support needed to succeed in Orange County's thriving business environment." The initial investment for a School of Rock franchise is approximately $395,800 $537,400 including a $49,900 franchise fee. Ideal candidates, or groups of investors, will have a net worth of $350,000 , of which $150,000 is liquid. Additionally, U.S. military veterans receive a special discount on their initial franchise fee. For more information on School of Rock visit www.SchoolofRock.com or call 866-695-5515. To learn more about School of Rock franchise opportunities visit http://franchising.schoolofrock.com/ About School of Rock School of Rock helps aspiring musicians master skills, unleash creativity, and develop tools they need to thrive in life. Founded as a single school in Philadelphia, Pa. , in 1998, School of Rock has become a rapidly growing international franchise with over 500 schools open and in development across 15 global markets. Since 2009, School of Rock has grown its student count from 4,000 to over 60,000. School of Rock offers a wide variety of music lessons , including guitar lessons , singing lessons and piano lessons . The company also sells musical instruments and music gear through its GearSelect program. School of Rock is proud to support Music Will (formerly Little Kids Rock), the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM), and the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS). School of Rock was awarded US Patent 10,891,872 in 2021 for its innovative music education method. School of Rock also has garnered the following industry awards: 2023 Global Franchise Grand Champion; 2023, 2022 and 2021 Global Franchise's Awards Best Children's Service and Education Franchise; 2023 Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500 Top Children's Music Enrichment Brand; 2021 Franchise Innovation Award for Most Innovative Use of Customer-Facing Digital Tools; Franchise Business Review's 2023 Top 200 Franchises and Culture 200 list; 2020 Entrepreneur Magazine's Top 200 Franchise and the #1 Child Enrichment Franchise; and 2018 Forbes # 2 Best Franchise Medium-Level Investment Award and the #1 Music Franchise in America. Follow School of Rock on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SchoolofRockUSA and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/SchoolofRockUSA . View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/school-of-rock-sets-sights-to-amplify-music-education-in-orange-county-california-301833319.html SOURCE School of Rock Acquisition strengthens SWCA's position as a strategic advisor and expands its presence globally PHOENIX , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SWCA Environmental Consultants, a leading environmental consulting firm in the U.S. , has acquired ALO Advisors LLC, an international management consulting firm focused on sustainability advisory services for clients across a wide range of industries. ALO Advisors helps clients design and deploy sustainability strategies, initiatives, and investments that simultaneously create business value and positive environmental and social impacts. ALO Advisors' team of 20 employees in the United States , Mexico , Netherlands , Portugal , and Sweden , and a network of affiliates in more than 50 countries, bring proven expertise in sustainability and management consulting worldwide. "This is truly a watershed moment for SWCA. By combining the strengths of SWCA and ALO Advisors, we have an incredible opportunity to drive greater positive environmental and social impact around the world," said Joseph J. Fluder , III, CEO and president of SWCA. "Together, we will provide end-to-end, full lifecycle support to our clients from strategy to science to implementation." ALO Advisors works with business leaders who are tackling today's greatest sustainability challenges. The organization serves some of the world's largest food, beverage, and consumer product companies, along with a wide variety of businesses in private equity, insurance, technology, medical device, and other industries. "In SWCA, we found an organization that shares our vision for helping clients make real, positive impact. By coming together, we will do this on a larger scale than we could have imagined," said John R. Platko , II, managing partner at ALO Advisors. About SWCA Founded in 1981, SWCA is a 100% employee-owned environmental consulting firm. SWCA provides a full spectrum of environmental services focused on planning, natural and cultural resources management, permitting, regulatory compliance, water resources, ecological restoration, and disaster and resilience. We combine scientific expertise with in-depth knowledge of permitting and compliance protocols to achieve technically sound, cost-effective solutions for environmental projects throughout the United States . About ALO Advisors ALO Advisors is a management consulting firm, founded in 2018, working globally with offices in Europe , the United States , and Mexico . We think about sustainability leadership differently, believing that when the economics work, the environmental and social benefits will last. This fundamental concept is central to our work and is the essence behind ALO's philosophy of Sustain Differently. Media Contact Sheri Waldbauer SWCA Environmental Consultants Ph: +1.503.224.0333 [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/swca-acquires-global-sustainability-consultant-alo-advisors-llc-301838833.html SOURCE SWCA Environmental Consultants SANTA CLARA, Calif. , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TCL RayNeo (RayNeo), an industry leader in augmented reality (AR) innovation, has announced at AWE USA 2023 that they will collaborate with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to deliver pioneering user experiences for AR wearables. RayNeo will develop a wide range of cutting-edge AR features leveraging Snapdragon XR processors, with future support for Snapdragon Spaces XR Developer Platform, to create a world-class AR ecosystem for consumers worldwide. "We're excited to team up with Qualcomm Technologies in our pursuit of transforming the AR industry through groundbreaking products and unparalleled user experiences," said Howie Li , CEO of TCL RayNeo. "Since day one, RayNeo has been committed to creating greater values for global consumers and making true AR accessible to everyone. We look forward to unlocking the full potential of AR, ushering in a new era of interactive experiences that inspire and delight." "At Qualcomm Technologies, we envision a future where augmented reality enriches and enhances the way we live, work, and play," said Hugo Swart , Vice President & General Manager of XR, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. "By collaborating with TCL RayNeo, we look forward to embarking on an exciting journey to propel the consumer AR industry forward." Through this collaboration, TCL RayNeo strives to transcend the limits of consumer AR glasses, expanding their application in diverse scenarios. By combining Snapdragon purpose-built XR technology with RayNeo's innovative AR techniques, it will upgrade intuitive functions applied to RayNeo's AR wearables, including spatial awareness, object recognition and tracking, gesture recognition, and more, to a whole new level. This will enable RayNeo to revolutionize AR glasses use cases, creating new possibilities in smart home automation, indoor navigation, and gaming. Both sides will also explore possibilities to integrate RayNeo's AR glasses with Snapdragon Spaces, enabling next-generation spatial experiences that fluidly combine virtual and real-world environments for head-worn AR. RayNeo originally unveiled at CES 2023 the groundbreaking TCL RayNeo X2 true AR glasses, the world's first binocular, full-color Micro-LED optical waveguide AR glasses. Powered by the Snapdragon XR2 platform, the devices seamlessly integrate powerful features into a wearable eyeglasses design, including real-time, multi-language dialogue translation, smart navigation based on simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), photo taking, as well as call and message notifications. Expected to launch commercially by Q2 of this year, TCL RayNeo X2 AR glasses are also on display at Qualcomm Technologies' booth at AWE USA 2023. To learn more about the TCL RayNeo X2 and other TCL RayNeo products, please visit: https://www.rayneo.com/ Snapdragon and Snapdragon Spaces are trademarks or registered trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Media Contact: Dongyao Nie Global PR Manager, TCL RayNeo [email protected] About TCL RayNeo (RayNeo) TCL RayNeo (RayNeo), incubated by TCL Electronics (1070.HK), is an industry leader in AR innovation, developing some of the world's most revolutionary AR consumer hardware, software and applications. RayNeo specializes in the research and development of AR technologies with industry-leading optics, display, algorithm and device manufacturing. Established in 2021, RayNeo has launched the world's first full-color Micro-LED optical waveguide AR glasses, achieving several technology breakthroughs in the industry. Alongside winning IDG's "Most Innovative Product" with NXTWEAR AIR, RayNeo also unveiled the innovative consumer XR wearable glasses NXTWEAR S featuring top-tier, cinematic audiovisual experiences. About TCL Electronics TCL Electronics (1070.HK) is one of the world's fastest-growing consumer electronics companies and one of the world's leading television and mobile device manufacturers (TCL Communication is a wholly-owned subsidiary of TCL Electronics). For nearly 40 years TCL has operated its own manufacturing and R&D centers worldwide, with products sold in more than 160 countries throughout North America , Latin America , Europe , the Middle East , Africa and Asia Pacific . TCL specializes in the research, development and manufacturing of consumer electronics ranging from TVs, mobile phones, audio devices and smart home products as part of the company's "AI x IoT" strategy. For more information on TCL mobile devices, please visit: http://www.tcl.com/global/en.html. TCL is a registered trademark of TCL Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Alcatel is a trademark of Nokia used under license by TCL Communication. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tcl-rayneo-collaborates-with-qualcomm-technologies-to-create-next-generation-consumer-ar-experiences-301838688.html SOURCE TCL RayNeo BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Resumption of deliveries via Baku-Supsa isn't expected yet, Vice President for Communications and External Relations of BP in the Caspian region Bakhtiyar Aslanbayli told the reporters on the sidelines of the Baku Energy Week, Trend reports. "We have not been using the Baku-Supsa pipeline for some time now. Deliveries are carried out via the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline," he said. Baku-Supsa or Western Route Export Pipeline (WREP) transports oil from Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli (ACG) to Supsa on the Black Sea coast of Georgia. Exports through the pipeline have been suspended since May 2022 due to a lack of nominations from the shipper group. The length of the pipeline is 837 kilometers. Its throughput capacity exceeds 7 million tons of oil per year (145,000 barrels per day). The pipeline operator is bp. The final point of oil transportation is the Black Sea port of Supsa in Georgia. Then the oil is transported by tankers to consumers in Europe. NEW YORK , May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tony's Mission Lock is a brand-new legal structure that utilizes a golden share to forever protect Tony's mission of eliminating child- and illegal labor in the chocolate industry, regardless of the shareholder structure of the company. This ground breaking new mechanism will be overseen by three experienced Mission Guardians, S eth Goldman, Ikenna Azuike and Anne-Wil Dijkstra . Holding a golden share in the company, Mission Guardians will have the power to prevent any legal changes to the definition of the company's mission and 5 Sourcing Principles. Mission Guardians will have several escalation levers to ultimately hold Tony's leadership team to account publicly and judicially. Tony's hopes that the Tony's Mission Lock structure will act as an inspiration to other companies looking to protect their mission for the long term. Irrevocable legal structure protecting Tony's mission Tony's mission of eradicating exploitation in the chocolate industry, its 5 Sourcing Principles and the legal obligation of Tony's leadership team to uphold these, are already embedded in Tony's Articles of Association. The company is now going one step further to indefinitely safeguard the company's purpose, by introducing a brand-new governing structure: Tony's Mission Lock. Tony's Mission Lock utilizes a golden share (a non-economic stake in the company). This means Tony's mission, the 5 Sourcing Principles and the company's core values cannot be amended without approval of the new governing structure effectively and irrevocably locking Tony's impact for as long as the company exists. Independent 'Mission Guardians' to oversee the structure Three independent Mission Guardians with strong track records in social impact and sustainability spheres will have the sole responsibility to act as representatives and guardians of Tony's mission. The structure is chaired by Seth Goldman , Founder of Honest Tea and Eat the Change and Chair of Beyond Meat. Seth is a world-leading impact entrepreneur with extensive experience in growing mission-led companies with a range of public and private shareholder structures. Lawyer turned broadcaster, Ikenna Azuike brings a breadth of experience in social and climate activism, strategy and journalism, an understanding of West Africa's socioeconomic context, as well as legal experience from his early career as a lawyer to the table. Anne-Wil Dijkstra , Tony's former Chief of Impact, Operations and People & Culture, rounds off the Mission Guardian trio and brings to the team valuable insider knowledge of Tony's impact model and hands-on experience of implementing this model operationally. On Tony's Mission Lock and his role as Mission Guardian, Seth Goldman elaborates: "I've learnt from my own experience that even when we create companies with the highest aspirations in mission, times change, people change new people come in, and organizations change too. So, historically no mission is guaranteed. I hope we can serve as advocates for all people and communities around the world that are served and supported by Tony's 5 Sourcing Principles. Like anything new and unproven, I'm sure we will learn along the way. But I also hope our approach can become a model for other purpose-driven brands." Tools for collaboration and accountability In addition to holding a golden share, Mission Guardians have access to a suite of tools that they can utilize when they believe a major breach of the company's mission-related responsibilities may be happening. This 'break glass in emergency' approach enables them to work proactively and collaboratively with senior management to first understand the detail behind any serious concerns expressed to them and swiftly resolve these. Any stakeholder who has a relationship with the company can raise any serious concerns anonymously with the Mission Guardians, including employees, cocoa farmers, business partners and Choco Fans via: [email protected]. In extreme circumstances where these issues are not resolved, the Mission Guardians have the right to escalate these concerns publicly via a double page spread in the company's annual FAIR report, through international full-page newspaper advertisements in each of the major markets that Tony's is active in and, ultimately, by referring the matter for legal investigation and arbitration at the Enterprise Chamber of the Court of Appeal in Amsterdam . A blueprint for impact companies As always, Tony's hopes their ambitious new move will inspire other impact brands to follow. "A growing number of purpose-driven companies are looking for ways to secure their impact models at the core of their business permanently and irrevocably, independent of shareholder structure.", says Tony's Chief Chocolonely, Douglas Lamont . "With this model, we hope to role model what we believe to be a powerful mechanism to protect our mission and Sourcing Principles forever and act as an inspiration for others to look more closely at what they can do to secure their mission too. To help other companies copy the approach and raise the bar collectively, Tony's will be sharing the full details of Tony's Mission Lock's structure open source. The Mission Guardians and Tony's Chief Chocolonely, Douglas Lamont , will officially sign the structure's formation document live at Tony's FAIR, on June 8, 2023 , in Amsterdam . They will discuss what this evolution of a Mission Lock means, both to Tony's mission and that of other impact companies, during a live Q&A. About Tony's Chocolonely Tony's Chocolonely is an impact company that makes chocolate. Since 2005, Tony's Chocolonely has dedicated its efforts to raising awareness of and eliminating inequality in the chocolate industry. They aim to lead by example, building direct, long-term relationships with cocoa farmers in Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire, paying them a higher price and working together to solve the underlying causes of modern slavery and child labor. Tony's Chocolonely is a B Corp and Fairtrade-certified. About Tony's 5 Sourcing Principles Tony's 5 Sourcing Principles address the complex issue of poverty in cocoa through concrete solutions. The principles are (1) sourcing fully traceable beans, (2) paying a higher price for cocoa to enable farmers to earn a living income, (3) promoting strong farmers via partner co-operatives to professionalize and make the work of cocoa farming safe and sustainable, (4) engaging in long-term commitments to boost farmers' income security, (5) training farmers to improve their cocoa productivity and quality as well as their agricultural knowledge on crops. Applying all five principles can structurally improve the lives of cocoa farmers. For more information contact: Lede [email protected] Website: https://www.tonyschocolonely.com/ View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tonys-chocolonely-introduces-tonys-mission-lock--a-new-legal-mechanism-to-secure-its-mission-indefinitely-regardless-of-shareholder-structure-301839091.html SOURCE Tonys Chocolonely BEIJING , May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Waterdrop Inc. (NYSE: WDH) ("Waterdrop" or the "Company"), a leading technology platform dedicated to insurance and healthcare service with a positive social impact, today announced that it will report its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2023, before U.S. markets open on Friday, June 2, 2023, instead of the previously announced date of June 5, 2023. Waterdrop's management team will hold a conference call on June 2, 2023 at 8:00 AM U. S. Eastern Time (8:00 PM Beijing/Hong Kong Time on the same day) to discuss the financial results. Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows: International: 1-412-317-6061 United States Toll Free: 1-888-317-6003 Hong Kong Toll Free: 800-963976 Hong Kong : 852-58081995 Mainland China : 4001-206115 Chinese Line (Mandarin) Entry Number: 6683992 English Interpretation Line (Listen-only Mode) Entry Number: 8700524 Participants can choose between the Chinese and the English interpretation lines. Please note that the English interpretation option will be in listen-only mode. Please dial in 15 minutes before the call is scheduled to begin and provide the Elite Entry Number to join the call. Telephone replays will be accessible two hours after the conclusion of the conference call through June 9, 2023 by dialing the following numbers: United States Toll Free: 1-877-344-7529 International: 1-412-317-0088 Chinese Line Access Code: 1702325 English Interpretation Line Access Code: 8201572 Additionally, live and archived webcasts of the conference call will be available at the Company's investor relations website at http://ir.waterdrop-inc.com/. About Waterdrop Inc. Waterdrop Inc. (NYSE: WDH) is a leading technology platform dedicated to insurance and healthcare service with a positive social impact. Founded in 2016, with the comprehensive coverage of Waterdrop Insurance Marketplace and Waterdrop Medical Crowdfunding, Waterdrop aims to bring insurance and healthcare service to billions through technology. For more information, please visit www.waterdrop-inc.com. For investor inquiries, please contact Waterdrop Inc. [email protected] View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/waterdrop-inc-announces-earnings-date-change-first-quarter-2023-earnings-release-scheduled-june-2-2023-301838061.html SOURCE Waterdrop Inc. BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Argentina's central bank purchased $451 million of foreign currency on Wednesday to bolster its dwindling hard currency reserves, after daily sales from farm exports topped $1 billion, providing some relief for the country's hard-hit finances. The currency move on Wednesday marks the biggest such purchase since late December. In May, the central bank bought a total of $855 million, according to traders consulted by Reuters, the largest monthly purchase of greenbacks since last September. The government has incentivized grains exports - Argentina's main source of dollars - in the last two months with a preferential exchange rate, helping bring in over $5 billion in total. That measure formally ended on Wednesday. The South American country's prolonged economic slump has taken a toll on the bank's foreign currency reserves, which are needed to pay down debt as well as to finance many imports. (Reporting by Walter Bianchi and Jorge Otola; Writing by Carolina Pulice; Editing by David Alire Garcia) FILE PHOTO: A depiction of the Australian Aboriginal Flag is seen on a window sill at the home of indigenous Muruwari elder Rita Wright, a member of the "Stolen Generations", in Sydney, Australia, January 19, 2021. Picture taken January 19, 2021. REUTERS SYDNEY (Reuters) - Legislation to hold a referendum to recognise Australia's Indigenous people in the constitution cleared its first parliamentary hurdle on Wednesday as it was passed in the House of Representatives. Australians will be asked to vote in a referendum, likely to be held between October and December, on whether they support altering the constitution to include "Voice to Parliament", a committee that can advise the parliament on matters affecting its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people. Aboriginal people, making up about 3.2% of Australia's near 26 million population, track below national averages on most socio-economic measures and are not mentioned in the 122-year-old constitution. They were marginalised by British colonial rulers and not granted voting rights until the 1960s. In a final vote in the lower house of parliament, 121 lawmakers voted in favour of the bill - called the Constitution Alteration bill - while 25 voted against, which included members from the National Party and the main opposition Liberal party. Lawmakers clapped and cheered as the final numbers of the vote were read out. "We're one step closer to holding a referendum on constitutional recognition through the Voice in 2023," Linda Burney, the Minister for Indigenous Australians said in a tweet after the outcome of the vote was announced. The bill will still need to go through the senate next month, after which the government will set a date for the polls. A successful referendum would finally give constitutional recognition to Australia's Indigenous people, who are one of the most incarcerated people in the world. (Reporting by Praveen Menon; Editing by Christopher Cushing) FILE PHOTO: Former FTX Chief Executive Sam Bankman-Fried, who faces fraud charges over the collapse of the bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange, leaves federal court in New York City, U.S., February 9, 2023. REUTERS/Mike Segar By Alison Frankel (Reuters) - Indicted FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried seems to be gearing up to blame the lawyers who helped him establish the crypto exchange. Thats the subtext of a motion filed on Tuesday by his lawyers at Cohen & Gresser, who are defending Bankman-Fried against federal charges of fraud, conspiracy and bribery. They're asking for access to documents from Fenwick & West, the Silicon Valley law firm that represented FTX and sister hedge fund Alameda Research from the companies' inception through their collapse in November 2022. Fenwick & West did not respond to my email queries. The firm has not yet filed a response to a civil suit by FTX customers who named Fenwick as a defendant. Bankman-Fried has pleaded not guilty to the charges. The defense motion claims that Fenwick & West advised him, FTX and Alameda on at least four matters at the heart of the Manhattan federal court indictment against the onetime crypto billionaire. The California law firm, for instance, allegedly provided counsel to FTX on the creation of shell companies that opened accounts at Silvergate Bank to receive deposits from FTX customers, according to Tuesday's motion. Those shell company bank accounts are a critical element of the governments bank fraud conspiracy charge. Fenwick & West also allegedly advised FTX that it was not required to register with the U.S. government as a money transmitting business, according to the new motion. Prosecutors have charged Bankman-Fried with conspiring to violate wire transfer laws by failing to register but his lawyers said in the new motion that Fenwicks alleged advice directly contradicts the governments theory. Bankman-Fried's filing similarly contends that Fenwick & West reviewed internal agreements in which Alameda loaned money to Bankman-Fried and other FTX executives. The government alleges that the loans were an illegal misappropriation of customer deposits as part of a scheme to violate federal campaign finance laws. Bankman-Frieds new motion argues that Fenwick & Wests legal advice on the tax consequences of the loans might rebut the governments contention that the loans were improper. Finally, the motion asserts that it was Fenwick that instructed Bankman-Fried to communicate with other FTX and Alameda executives via Signal and other ephemeral messaging apps. That alleged advice would undercut the government's claim that Bankman-Fried directed his colleagues to use Signal and other encrypted communication apps to hide evidence of his crimes. Bankman-Fried's lawyers acknowledged in the motion that their assertions about Fenwick & West are based on a very limited set of documents. The filing does not specifically invoke the words "advice of counsel" to refute government claims that Bankman-Fried acted with criminal intent. But Bankman-Frieds lawyers seem to be headed in that direction, telling U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan of Manhattan that they need to know more about Fenwicks work for FTX and Alameda to determine if the law firms documents exonerate their client. Those documents could help Bankman-Fried later argue at trial that he was following advice from FTXs lawyers. Tuesday's filing asks Kaplan to order the government to turn over evidence from Fenwick & West or to authorize Bankman-Fried to subpoena documents from the law firm. The firm would almost certainly rather not turn over client files to Bankman-Fried. Among other reasons, Fenwick & West has been named as a defendant in a sweeping class action by FTX customers. The plaintiffs' lawyer who filed that case, Kerry Miller of Fishman Haygood, told me on Wednesday that he plans to monitor the Bankman-Fried criminal case for any Fenwick & West documents that might boost the class allegations. Bankman-Frieds lawyers from Cohen & Gresser declined comment on the new motion through a spokesperson. The Manhattan U.S. Attorneys office also declined to comment. Attorney-client privilege is often a complication for white-collar defendants who want to blame their companies lawyers for providing bad advice. Companies rather than individual executives or outside law firms -- control the right to insist that communications with their counsel remain confidential. Companies are typically reluctant to waive privilege for fear that their lawyers documents might be used in other cases. Bankman-Frieds new motion said his lawyers are in negotiations with FTXs new counsel about whether the company intends to assert attorney client privilege over relevant Fenwick & West documents. (The motion did not name FTX's new law firm but it is Sullivan & Cromwell.) Defense counsel also said that Fenwick & West told them it would not turn over any documents without FTXs permission. The motion floats two theories for why Bankman-Fried is entitled to access to certain Fenwick & West communications even if FTX claims privilege. Bankman-Fried said the law firm represented him personally in addition to serving as counsel to FTX and Alameda. That assertion seems to hint that Bankman-Fried will claim that he can personally waive privilege over some Fenwick & West communications. Defense lawyers also argued that FTX, which is in Chapter 11 bankruptcy, has already waived its privilege over certain documents by turning them over to prosecutors. If thats correct, said former federal prosecutor Harry Sandick of Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler, it will be easier for Bankman-Fried to obtain Fenwicks communications. Its hard to see why the defense should be denied access, Sandick said. If Bankman-Frieds lawyers believe that Fenwick documents can help them refute the governments evidence of criminal intent, Sandick said, they will eventually have to make a strategic decision about how to get the law firms communications in front of a jury. The documents must be introduced through a witness presumably Bankman-Fried himself or a Fenwick & West lawyer. The strongest defense case, Sandick said, would probably feature testimony from a Fenwick & West witness to bolster testimony from Bankman-Fried about his reliance on advice from FTX lawyers. But contradictory testimony from a law firm witness could undermine Bankman-Frieds advice-of-counsel defense. Thats a concern for another day. Right now, Sandick said, Bankman-Frieds lawyers just want to know whether Fenwick & Wests files will help their client. Its an understandable motion, he said. Theyre saying, Lets see what the documents say, then well decide how to use them. Read more: Bankman-Fried seeks documents from former FTX law firm in crypto fraud case Bankman-Fried charges should not be tossed, prosecutors say Bankman-Fried faces long odds of tossing charges despite Supreme Court decision (Reporting By Alison Frankel) FILE PHOTO: Former FTX Chief Executive Sam Bankman-Fried, who faces fraud charges over the collapse of the bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange, walks outside the Manhattan federal court in New York City, U.S. March 30, 2023. REUTERS/Amanda Perobelli By Jack Queen (Reuters) - Sam Bankman-Fried is seeking documents from a law firm that advised his defunct FTX cryptocurrency exchange, saying in a court filing that they could help him beat fraud charges. The former crypto mogul said the documents could prove that he relied on legal advice from Silicon Valley law firm Fenwick & West and did not believe he was breaking the law. Manhattan federal prosecutors must prove he knew his conduct was illegal. Fenwick did not immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday. Bankman-Fried, the 31-year-old founder of now-defunct FTX Trading, has pleaded not guilty in Manhattan federal court to 13 counts of fraud, conspiracy, illegal campaign contributions and foreign bribery. On Tuesday, he asked a judge to order prosecutors to turn over documents related to Fenwicks legal advice on matters central to the governments case, including FTXs use of disappearing messaging services and failure to properly register with regulators. Bankman-Fried said in the filing that each of the charges against him requires the government to prove he acted willfully and that Fenwicks legal advice could prove that he is innocent because he thought his actions were aboveboard. Bankman-Fried rode a boom in digital currency to a $26 billion net worth and became an influential political and philanthropic donor before FTX sought Chapter 11 protection in November. Prosecutors allege Bankman-Fried stole billions of dollars in customer funds to plug losses in his hedge fund Alameda Research, which collapsed along with FTX last year after its risky cryptocurrency bets backfired. On May 8, Bankman-Fried urged U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan to dismiss most of the charges, arguing prosecutors made a rush to judgment after the stunning collapse of FTX, which was once considered a bulwark of the volatile crypto industry. Prosecutors on Monday opposed the request, calling Bankman-Frieds claims meritless and arguing his alleged crimes fell within the heartland of the statutes he is accused of violating. Bankman-Fried has remained largely under house arrest at his parents Palo Alto, California home on a $250 million bond since his December extradition from the Bahamas. His trial is scheduled for Oct. 2. (Reporting by Jack Queen) By Andreas Rinke and Alexander Ratz BERLIN (Reuters) -Germany said on Wednesday it would shut down four out of five Russian consulates by revoking their licences, a tit-for-tat move after Moscow's decision to limit the number of German officials in Russia to 350. The move represents a sharp downgrading of bilateral ties amid a wider collapse in relations since Russia's invasion of Ukraine early last year. Russia denounced the proposed closures as ill-conceived and provocative and said it would respond. Germany's foreign ministry accused Moscow of escalating tensions by imposing limits on numbers of German officials. "This unjustified decision is forcing the federal government to make very significant cuts in all areas of its presence in Russia," a spokesperson said. The Russian government would be still be allowed to operate its embassy in Berlin and one general consulate, but Germany expects the rest to cease operations by the end of the year, the ministry said. Germany will close its own consulates in Kaliningrad, Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk, leaving only the German embassy in Moscow and the consulate in St Petersburg in operation. In Moscow, the Russian foreign ministry condemned what it called "yet another unfriendly step aimed at the further destruction" of bilateral ties. Berlin's actions "will not go unanswered by us," it said in a statement without giving details. Relations between Russia and Germany, which used to be the biggest buyer of Russian oil and gas, have broken down since the invasion in February 2022 and the West responded with sanctions and weapons supplies. Germany is planning to remove scores of employees working at its missions in Russia after Moscow imposed limits on the numbers allowed to work in the country. (Additional reporting by Caleb Davis and David Ljunggren, Writing by Friederike Heine and Matthias Williams; Editing by Madeline Chambers, Alison Williams and John Stonestreet) By William James LONDON (Reuters) - Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has given his pandemic-era notebooks and messages to the government and urged officials to pass them on to an independent COVID-19 inquiry, his spokesman said on Wednesday. The Cabinet Office, which is responsible for overseeing the operation of government, is in a standoff with the inquiry over whether it should hand over material it deems to be irrelevant to the investigation. "All Boris Johnson's material - including WhatsApps and notebooks - requested by the COVID inquiry has been handed to the Cabinet Office in full and in unredacted form," the spokesman's statement said. "Mr Johnson urges the Cabinet Office to urgently disclose it to the inquiry." After Britain recorded one of the world's highest number of COVID deaths, Johnson's government in 2021 ordered an inquiry into the country's preparedness as well as its public health and economic response. With a national election expected next year, the detailed examination of decision making could be politically uncomfortable for both Johnson and current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who was finance minister during the pandemic. The inquiry will cover the government's management of the pandemic, particularly at the beginning when Britain was slower than many European countries to respond. Chaired by former judge Heather Hallett, the inquiry had given the government until Thursday afternoon to hand over Johnson's WhatsApp messages and diaries. The Cabinet Office did not immediately respond for a request for comment. In a statement issued on Tuesday, it said: "We are firmly of the view that the inquiry does not have the power to request unambiguously irrelevant information that is beyond the scope of this investigation." "This includes the WhatsApp messages of government employees which are not about work but instead are entirely personal and relate to their private lives." Johnson, whose personal conduct during the COVID-19 pandemic has been heavily criticised and who incurred a police fine for breaking lockdown regulations, said he would cooperate with the inquiry in full. "While Mr Johnson understands the governments position, and does not seek to contradict it, he is perfectly happy for the inquiry to have access to this material in whatever form it requires," the spokesman said. (Reporting by William James, Elizabeth Piper and Alistair Smout; editing by John Stonestreet) FILE PHOTO: Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva gestures before the summit with presidents of South America to discuss the re-launching of the regional cooperation bloc UNASUR, in Brasilia, Brazil, May 29, 2023. REUTERS/Ueslei Marcelino By Maria Carolina Marcello BRASILIA (Reuters) - Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has suffered a major defeat over important legislation protecting the Amazon rainforest and the Indigenous people who live in it, and he has had to cut his losses in a conservative Congress. Lawmakers backed by the powerful farm lobby in this agricultural powerhouse voted 283-155 on Tuesday night to pass a bill that would limit the recognition of new Indigenous reservations, a decision seen by environmentalists and human rights advocates as a setback. On Wednesday, the minority Lula government faces another key vote in the chamber that will reduce the powers of the ministries of the environment and of Indigenous affairs. But this time, Lula decided to negotiate passage of the temporary decree to ensure its approval before it expires on Friday, which would undo the government reorganization that almost increased to 37 the number of ministries when he took office in January. That would include the restructuring of the economy ministry, where trade and industry, and budget planning were split off into separate portfolios. Lawmakers also removed land decisions from the Indigenous affairs ministry, while the registry of rural land, a vital tool to stop deforestation, will be managed by the agriculture and not the environment ministry. Lula called an emergency cabinet meeting to discuss the dilemma, and called the speaker of the lower house, Arthur Lira, whom he plans to meet as well, to ensure the measure passes. The main opposition party and the largest in Congress, the conservative Liberal Party, which former right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro belongs to, said it would vote against the restructuring decree. INDIGENOUS ENVIRONMENTAL SETBACK The law passed on Tuesday would set a cut-off date for recognizing Indigenous land claims, establishing that they had to be occupied before Brazil's current Constitution was enacted in 1988. The proposal set off protests by Indigenous groups. Outside Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest city, demonstrators blocked a major motorway with flaming tires and used bows and arrows to confront police, who dispersed them with tear gas. Bill 490 would not affect currently recognized reservations, but may impact hundreds of territories under evaluation. It was fast-tracked by the lower house to avoid committee debates. Brazil's 1 million Indigenous peoples are guaranteed by the Constitution the right to live on ancestral lands. Establishing a reservation gives their communities legal protections that can deter invasion by illegal loggers and wildcat gold miners. Those surged under Bolsonaro, who called for commercial agriculture and mining even on recognized reservations. After the bill passed, the minister of Indigenous peoples, Sonia Guajajara, said that the deputies who backed it would be "responsible for approving a bill that explicitly attacks the lives of Indigenous peoples in Brazil." The bill still needs approval in the Senate and signing by Lula. He could veto it but there might be enough support in Congress to override that. (Reporting by Lisandra Paraguassu, Ricardo Brito and Maria Carolina Marcello in Brasilia; Writing by Anthony Boadle; Editing by Matthew Lewis) FILE PHOTO: An electronic board shows stock indexes at the Lujiazui financial district in Shanghai, China, March 21, 2023. REUTERS/Aly Song By Roxanne Liu and Kane Wu BEIJING/HONG KONG (Reuters) -China-focused venture capital fundraising is heading for its weakest first half year in at least eight years, data from researcher Preqin showed, as a teetering economic recovery and Sino-U.S. tensions unsettle investors and startups. Concern about the impact of a weak business environment on startups' prospects and valuations means a turnaround in fundraising may take time as venture funds take longer to evaluate potential deals, investors and advisers said. "The current market presents bifurcated fundraising paths: U.S. dollar funds continue to face a challenging environment with their much more risk-averse investors while RMB (yuan) funds are increasingly relying on state-owned or government-backed investors," said Weiheng Chen, senior partner and head of Greater China practice at law firm Wilson Sonsini. "Geopolitical de-risking overhang and economic uncertainties have also been impacting the deal making," he said. The drop reflects a turn in fortune for startups in China after years of rapid growth fuelled by ample funding. U.S. security concerns and tit-for-tat trade restrictions have left dollar investors on the sidelines while domestic yuan funding diminished amid China's post-COVID-19 economic woes. U.S. dollar-denominated fundraising focused on China has reached $610 million so far this year, while yuan-denominated funding totals $1.65 billion, Preqin data showed. That compared with $4.11 billion and $4.34 billion equivalent in yuan over January-June last year, and was a far cry from their respective peaks of about $5.52 billion in dollar funds raised in the first half of 2018 and $48.22 billion in yuan funds raised in the same period in 2017. Venture deals by value, at $27.2 billion as of May 30, dropped to the lowest since 2020, when the onset of the coronavirus pandemic derailed business activity. Only two unicorns - or startups with valuations of $1 billion or more - have been minted in the world's second-largest economy so far this year, CB Insights data showed. Consumer sector startups face a prolonged fundraising cycle, said Ji Xing, managing director at financial advisor Lighthouse Capital. Chip designers could be less attractive to investors, too, due to weaker demand for downstream products, Ji said. Declining valuations of publicly listed firms and lukewarm investor appetite for initial public offerings have also made it difficult for startups to seek funds, dealmakers said. "Companies have not been able to achieve desirable valuations in their offshore listings, which have factored into startups' early stage capital raises as investors assess their exit prospects," said Ming Jin, managing partner at boutique investment bank Cygnus Equity. However, a nascent artificial intelligence-generated content (AIGC) sector could spawn meaningful deal activity in the second half of this year, especially for U.S. dollar-denominated venture funds, investors and advisers said. "Dollar investors tend to focus more on the disruptive opportunities brought by the underlying infrastructure evolvement and are willing to pay more premiums for such opportunities," said Lighthouse's Ji. Wayne Shiong, partner at venture firm China Growth Capital, said he expected a pick-up in venture deals this year mainly driven by top-league, cash-ample funds keen to deploy dry powder that they have been sitting on throughout the pandemic. (Reporting by Roxanne Liu in Beijing and Kane Wu in Hong Kong; Editing by Christopher Cushing) BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. bp plans to send the upper structures of the Azeri-Central-East platform on the Azeri-Chirag-Guneshli block to the sea in June this year, Vice President for Communications and External Relations of bp in the Caspian region Bakhtiyar Aslanbayli told the reporters on the sidelines of the Baku Energy Week, Trend reports. "The production of the first oil from the Azeri-Central-East platform is scheduled for the beginning of next year. The upper buildings have already been loaded onto the barge. The ceremony of sending to sea will take place in June," he said. The $6 billion Azeri-Central-East project is the next stage in the development of the giant Azeri-Chirag-Guneshli field in the Caspian Sea. The Azeri-Central-East platform and equipment are designed to process up to 100,000 barrels of oil per day. It is expected that up to 300 million barrels will be produced during the entire duration of the project. The platform will be controlled remotely from the Sangachal terminal and will include an innovative automation system. Baku Energy Week is traditionally held with the support of the Ministry of Energy and the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR). A total of 326 companies from 37 countries of the world have confirmed their participation in the events to be held within the framework of the Baku Energy Week. The Caspian Oil&Gas and Caspian Power exhibitions will be held at the Baku Expo Center, and the Baku Energy Forum will be hosted by the Baku Congress Center. FILE PHOTO: Citgo Corpus Christi Refinery is seen in Corpus Christi, Texas, U.S., January 25, 2019. Picture taken on January 25, 2019. REUTERS/Erwin Seba/File Photo HOUSTON/CARACAS (Reuters) - A group of Venezuela-related expropriation claims at U.S. courts pursuing Citgo Petroleum's assets surpass $20 billion, making it difficult for the Houston-based refiner to compensate them all, the chief of a board supervising the company said on Wednesday. However, some payments can be negotiated, said Horacio Medina, head of the board that since 2019 oversees the refiner, referring to a long-standing legal battle that could prompt the break up of the seventh largest U.S. refiner. "Citgo is (now) capable of sit down with creditors to offer negotiation options," he said during an online conference about Venezuela's oil industry. Citgo, which severed ties with its Caracas-based parent PDVSA, had a net profit of $937 million in the first quarter on firm fuel demand, refining output and margins, and last year posted a record $2.8 billion profit, a series of strong results that could help the firm negotiate with creditors. Once one of Citgo's U.S. parent companies, Citgo Holding, pays off its debt entirely later this year, the firm will have room to get new financing, an extra tool for negotiating some compensations, Medina added. "We already have lined up $21 billion (in claims)," he said when comparing those to Citgo's assets, including its 769,000-barrel-per-day refining network, which have been valued at some $11 billion. The most prominent claim, by miner Crystallex International, has recently progressed before a Delaware court. A growing number of companies are seeking to be part of the case and participate in an eventual auction of shares. Medina did not elaborate on how many of the claims Citgo would be able to resolve, but said lawyers representing Venezuela are not pursuing an auction, but one-to-one payment negotiations to avoid a break up of Venezuela's most important foreign asset. "For us, it is mandatory to keep Citgo in our hands," he said. Citgo has plants in Louisiana, Illinois and Texas, and pipelines and a gasoline distribution network supplying 4,200 outlets in the United States. A U.S. court of appeals in May granted a temporary stay preventing six companies from joining a proposed court auction, giving Venezuela a small relief in the legal fight. (Reporting by Marianna Parraga in Houston and Deisy Buitrago in Caracas; Editing by Gary McWilliams and Daniel Wallis) FRANKFURT (Reuters) -Commerzbank shareholders on Wednesday cleared the way for the economist Jens Weidmann to take over as chairman of the German lender, the fifth person to occupy the role over the past six years. Weidmann, the former president of Germany's central bank, was voted onto the bank's supervisory board with 99.2% of the shareholder votes at Commerzbank's annual general meeting. The bank has said that Weidmann would assume the chairmanship after election to the board. Commerzbank, one of Germany's best known banks and partially held by the government after a bailout more than a decade ago, is in the middle of a major overhaul, slashing its workforce and branch network to restore profits. Like many banks, it is benefiting from a rise in interest rates and the income that generates. Weidmann will succeed Helmut Gottschalk, who assumed the job in 2021 when his predecessor fell ill. The previous chair left in an investor revolt. Some shareholders used their speeches at Wednesday's meeting to praise the selection of Weidmannn to the role. Deka's Andreas Thomae said that Weidmann would use his "international and regulatory experience and vision to guide Commerzbank into the next phase of sustainable growth". Alexandra Annecke, a portfolio manager at Union Investment, challenged Weidmann, who was present at the meeting, to "keep an eye on costs and be uncomfortable for the management board at times". Weidmann quit the Bundesbank in 2021 after a decade of opposition to the European Central Bank's then aggressive stimulus policy of sub-zero interest rates and massive government bond purchases. (Reporting by Tom Sims and Frank Siebelt; Editing by Jan Harvey, Kirsten Donovan) By Toby Sterling AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - A Dutch law giving the government power to review foreign technology investments and block takeovers on national security grounds is set to go into effect this week, the government said on Wednesday. Economic Affairs Minister Micky Adriaansens, who will oversee the new Investment Review Office, said in a statement she has also opened a portal for Dutch companies to learn what foreign firms they may securely do business with and where they may legally export sensitive technologies. Though the investment screening law has been under consideration for years, its enactment comes ahead of new restrictions on exports of Dutch semiconductor technology to China under pressure from the United States. "Takeovers, mergers and other forms of investment are being used more often by states to reach their geopolitical goals," the statement said, adding that the information portal will be operated in cooperation with the country's intelligence agency. We "have agreed that Dutch business interests and national security shall be better protected," it said. Under the new law, plans to buy vital Dutch infrastructure, real estate or technology must be reported to the Investment Review Office and kept on standstill for 8 weeks to six months while it drafts advice for the government on security implications. "The ministers can then attach conditions to the investment or in the utmost case, forbid it," it said. The law was drafted by successive Dutch governments following attempts in the 2010s by foreign firms to buy companies such as telecom KPN, paint maker Akzo Nobel and consumer goods giant Unilever, which later moved its sole headquarters to London for tax reasons. The law's scope was expanded to include real estate after the High Tech Campus in Eindhoven, where many technology firms have offices, was sold in 2021 to a subsidiary of Singapore's sovereign wealth fund. (Reporting by Toby Sterling; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) By Philip Blenkinsop LULEA, Sweden (Reuters) - EU tech chief Margrethe Vestager said on Wednesday she believed a draft code of conduct on artificial intelligence (AI) could be drawn up within weeks, allowing industry to commit to a final proposal "very, very soon". Policymakers and many in the industry have expressed concern about AI, particularly content-creating generative AI such as ChatGPT, with some equating it to the risks posed by pandemics or nuclear war. Vestager said the United States and European Union should push a voluntary code to provide safeguards while new laws are developed. "Generative AI is a complete game-changer," Vestager, who is a vice president of the European Commission, told a news conference on Wednesday after a meeting of the EU-U.S. Trade and Technology Council (TTC). "Everyone knows this is the next powerful thing. So within the next weeks we will advance a draft of an AI code of conduct," she said, adding she hoped there would be a final proposal "very, very soon" that industry could sign up to. In a subsequent tweet, she mentioned watermarking and external audits among ideas that could feature in the code. The European Union's AI Act, with rules on facial recognition and biometric surveillance, is still going through the legislative process. "In the best of cases it will take effect in two and a half to three years time. That is obviously way too late," Vestager told reporters before the meeting of the TTC in Sweden. "We need to act now." The TTC closing statement said the two partners had created expert groups focusing on terms required to assess AI risks, cooperation on AI standards and monitoring existing and emerging risks. Leaders of the G7 nations called this month for the development of technical standards to keep AI "trustworthy", urging international discussions on topics such as governance, copyright, transparency and the threat of disinformation. Vestager said there needed to be agreement on specifics, suggesting Brussels and Washington could help drive the process, noting that generative was "developing at amazing speeds." (Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop; Editing by Mark Potter, Jan Harvey and John Stonestreet) LULEA, Sweden (Reuters) - European Union tech chief Margrethe Vestager said she believed a draft voluntary code of conduct for generative AI could be drawn up "within the next weeks", with a final proposal for industry to sign up "very, very soon". "Generative AI is a complete game-changer," Vestager, who is a vice president of the European Commission, told a news conference on Wednesday after a meeting of the EU-U.S. Trade and Technology Council. "Everyone knows this is the next powerful thing. So within the next weeks we will advance a draft of an AI code of conduct," she said, adding she hoped there would be a final proposal "very, very soon" that industry could sign up to. (Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop and Bart Meijer; Editing by Alison Williams) FILE PHOTO: Smoke from the Tantallon wildfire rises over houses in nearby Bedford, Nova Scotia, Canada, May 28, 2023. REUTERS/Eric Martyn (Reuters) - Canadian emergency officials issued a mandatory evacuation order for parts of Bedford, Nova Scotia, after authorities noted a new wildfire and the potential for an ammonia leak in the area, CBC News reported on Tuesday. This comes after the declaration late Sunday of a state of local emergency for the eastern city of Halifax, also in Nova Scotia, after a wildfire caused evacuations and power outages, impacting about 18,000 people. Crews were tackling the fire reported at a Farmers Dairy building off Hammonds Plains Road, Halifax Mayor Mike Savage told CBC. A wide evacuation radius was ordered partly due to the risk of an ammonia leak from tanks on the site of the Farmers Dairy manufacturing plant, the report said, citing Halifax Fire Deputy Chief David Meldrum. Forest fires also led to evacuations of about 400 homes in the province of New Brunswick over the weekend, officials said. Earlier this month, the western province of Alberta declared a provincial state of emergency after tens of thousands of people were forced from their homes as unprecedented wildfires raged. (Reporting by Yana Gaur in Bengaluru; Editing by Leslie Adler) KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - A former aide to Malaysian fugitive Jho Low, the financier at the centre of the multi-billion dollar 1MDB corruption scandal, has died, his lawyers said on Wednesday. Kee Kok Thiam, 56, died in hospital of a "sudden massive stroke" on Monday, Valen, Oh & Partners said in a statement without providing further details. Earlier in May, Kee had been repatriated to Malaysia from Macau after five years on the run. He was questioned by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on arrival and his house was searched, media reported. An Al Jazeera report on Tuesday said Kee had told the MACC that he had met Low and other 1MDB suspects in Macau. The MACC confirmed it had made the comments to Al Jazeera but did not disclose details. Low, whose full name is Low Taek Jho, is wanted in at least three countries after Malaysian and U.S. authorities identified him as the mastermind of the theft of $4.5 billion from now-defunct fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Low has consistently denied wrongdoing. Former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak, who co-founded 1MDB, was sentenced to 12 years in prison last year for graft linked to the scandal. (Reporting by Hasnoor Hussain, Rozanna Latiff, A. Ananthalakshmi in Kuala Lumpur; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor and Edwina Gibbs) FILE PHOTO: The logo of Citibanamex bank in front of a branch is pictured in Mexico City, Mexico January 19, 2023. REUTERS/Henry Romero By Anthony Esposito MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexico is evaluating whether buying Citigroup Inc's Mexican consumer unit would help boost financial inclusion, potentially in combination with a state-run bank such as the Banco del Bienestar, a top finance ministry official said. U.S. lender Citigroup scrapped its sale of the Banamex unit last week and said it will instead list it, a surprise move coming amid talks to sell the business to Mexican billionaire German Larrea's conglomerate Grupo Mexico. "The Finance Minister has asked us to evaluate the different scenarios in which it might be beneficial for Mexico to acquire the bank," Deputy Finance Minister Gabriel Yorio told Reuters. Yorio, who said Mexico could pursue a total or partial acquisition of the unit, was speaking in a phone interview while on a visit to Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to boost trade, financial and diplomatic ties. After Citi announced its IPO plans, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the government could acquire up to half of Banamex. Before Citi's u-turn, banking sources said Grupo Mexico had been eyeing the unit for around $7 billion. Yorio noted that Mexico has different development banks, saying: "There are banks that are focused on financial inclusion and maybe that's where potentially the acquisition of another bank could make sense by using their infrastructure and technology in order to boost financial inclusion in Mexico." The Banco del Bienestar (Welfare Bank), which helps process government welfare payments and has nearly 2,000 physical branches, "is a natural candidate to be able to make the best use of the assets and infrastructure that Banamex has," he said. Yorio underscored that a decision has not yet been made and the analysis of potential synergies was ongoing. The deal to sell Banamex to Grupo Mexico fell through as tensions between the conglomerate and Lopez Obrador, which had already been rising, flared up after the government moved to expropriate a section of one of its railway lines. The spat with Grupo Mexico alongside other government demands on Banamex - including that it remain in Mexican hands and that any new owner not be allowed to cut costs via layoffs - led the two sides to abandon the deal, sources have said. Yorio highlighted that the most prized asset could be Banamex's banking and payment systems. "Banamex, in fact, has had a significant deterioration in its payment systems, precisely because it was in this sale process," he said. "Now they have to decide whether they are going to invest or update their systems." (Reporting by Anthony Esposito; Editing by Dave Graham and Mark Porter) FILE PHOTO: The cargo ship Mehmet Bey waits to pass through the Bosphorus Strait off the shores of Yenikapi during a misty morning in Istanbul, Turkey, October 31, 2022. REUTERS/Mehmet Emin Calsikan/File Photo By Pavel Polityuk KYIV (Reuters) - The U.N. has proposed that Kyiv, Moscow and Ankara start preparatory work for the transit of Russian ammonia through Ukraine as it tries to salvage a deal allowing safe Black Sea grain exports, a source close to the talks said on Wednesday. As the preparatory work starts, the U.N. wants parallel talks to be held on widening the Black Sea deal that was agreed last July to include more Ukrainian ports and other cargoes, said the source, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity. Russia agreed this month to a two-month extension of the deal but has said the initiative will cease unless an agreement aimed at overcoming obstacles to Russian grain and fertiliser exports is fulfilled. Ukraine and Turkey have agreed to the new proposal, intended to improve operations in the Black Sea grain export corridor, but Russia has not yet responded, the source said. U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, asked about the Reuters report at a daily press briefing, said conversations were continuing. "As you recall, the Secretary General had put forward some ideas to the parties to improve the facilitation of the work of the Joint Coordination Centre, to also work on the issue of ammonia export, which is part of the deal that was signed. Those conversations and contacts are continuing. But that's as much as I'll say right now," Dujarric said. The U.N. and Turkey brokered the Black Sea Grain Initiative between Moscow and Kyiv last July to help tackle a global food crisis aggravated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a leading global grain exporter. APPEAL TO IMPROVE GRAIN CORRIDOR The U.N. has handed "an official appeal to the leaders of Ukraine, Turkey and Russia with a proposal for a specific mutually beneficial algorithm to radically improve" the work of the grain corridor, the source told Reuters. "Ukraine and Turkey have confirmed their readiness to work on the algorithm proposed by the Secretary General. At the same time, as of May 30, Russia has not given its consent, despite the presence of favourable positions in the algorithm." Ukrainian officials have said that since mid-April, Russia has "unreasonably restricted" the work of the Black Sea grain deal. Russia has denied this and urged all parties to unblock the transit of ammonia via the Ukrainian port of Pivdennyi, near the Black Sea port of Odesa, which was halted after Russia's invasion in February last year. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in his nightly video address, accused Russia of blocking all activity at Pivdennyi, with 1.5 million tonnes of agricultural products unable to move. Other countries, he said, should take note. "All maritime countries can now see what can threaten their ports, their coastlines if Russia gets away with blocking navigation in the Black Sea," Zelenskiy said. "In other words, the blockade of one port in Ukraine poses extremely serious risks for different nations, particularly those with relations that Russia tries to use for speculative purposes." Ukrainian authorities have said workers would need about 30 days to prepare the pipeline to pump ammonia again. Ukraine's deputy renovation minister said on Tuesday that Kyiv was seeking guarantees from Moscow and the U.N. that the grain deal will work normally if Ukraine allows Russia to export ammonia via the pipeline. A senior government source told Reuters this month that Kyiv would consider allowing Russian ammonia to transit its territory for export on condition that the Black Sea grain deal is expanded to include more Ukrainian ports and a wider range of commodities. (Reporting by Pavel Polityuk, Editing by Timothy Heritage, Kirsten Donovan, Ron Popeski and Diane Craft) Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie speaks at the Institute of Politics at St. Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, U.S., March 27, 2023. REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo By Joseph Ax PRINCETON, New Jersey (Reuters) - Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who advised Donald Trump's White House campaign in 2016 only to become a vocal critic of the former president in recent months, will launch a bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination next week, a person familiar with the matter said. Christie, 60, enters the race as a decided underdog, six years after his 2016 presidential campaign failed to gain traction amid a crowded field that included Trump. Only 1% of Republicans said he would be their preferred 2024 nominee in a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted May 9-15. Ending weeks of speculation about his intentions, Christie will officially launch his campaign at a town hall at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire on Tuesday, the person familiar with the matter said, confirming an earlier report by Axios. Christie has urged his party to move on from Trump's baseless claims that the 2020 election was rigged, including in his book "Republican Rescue." That stance could theoretically earn him some support from moderate Republicans eager to turn the page, though it will alienate Trump's still-powerful base of voters. In March, Christie told Axios he would not vote for Trump in 2024 even if the former president was the Republican nominee. Trump, who announced his campaign last year, leads among Republicans in public polling. In public appearances, Christie, a former federal prosecutor, has argued he alone has the skill and willingness to go toe-to-toe with the pugnacious Trump directly. "As we all know here in New Jersey, the governor is a proven leader who fearlessly tells it like it is," Bill Palatucci, a longtime Christie advisor who will chair a political action committee supporting his candidacy, wrote in a message to New Jersey Republican state committee members on Tuesday. Christie has played the role of attack dog before: in a memorable debate appearance shortly before he ended his 2016 campaign, Christie mocked U.S. Senator Marco Rubio for memorizing his lines, a performance widely seen as irreparably damaging to Rubio's campaign. In addition to Trump, other Republicans running for president include Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, U.S. Senator Tim Scott and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley. Former Vice President Mike Pence and New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu are among those weighing candidacies. The nominee would face Democratic President Joe Biden, whose re-election campaign faces no notable intraparty opposition. A two-term governor from a Democratic-leaning state, the brash and charismatic Christie was once viewed as a rising Republican star who held rare cross-party appeal. But his second term in office was tarnished by the only-in-New Jersey "Bridgegate" scandal, in which two of his aides were accused of deliberately closing lanes at the heavily trafficked George Washington Bridge to New York City to punish a local mayor who refused to endorse his re-election campaign. Christie's relationship with Trump and his family has taken a winding path. As the U.S. attorney for New Jersey, he prosecuted Charles Kushner, the father of Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, for tax evasion and other crimes. He and Trump exchanged plenty of barbs during the early stages of the 2016 campaign. But just weeks after dropping out of the race, Christie endorsed Trump over other rivals, giving his candidacy a boost at a critical juncture. While he served as a campaign adviser, Christie became a political liability late in the race, when witnesses testified during the criminal trial of his aides that he knew of the bridge lane closures at the time. Christie has denied knowing about the plot until afterward. Nevertheless, he was passed over first for vice president and later for attorney general. Three days after Trump's surprise victory, Christie was fired as the head of Trump's White House transition team. Since the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by a mob of Trump supporters, Christie has jabbed at Trump on numerous occasions. He blamed the former president for the Republicans' disappointing showing in the 2022 midterm elections and called Trump's conduct "unacceptable" after a federal jury found Trump liable for sexually abusing the writer E. Jean Carroll in the 1990s. Christie was also a candidate for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination but was beaten by eventual nominee Mitt Romney. (Reporting by Susan Heavey, Joseph Ax, Nathan Layne and Katharine Jackson; Writing by Joseph Ax; Editing by Andrew Heavens, Chizu Nomiyama and Daniel Wallis) EY Azerbaijan, Baku, 31 May 2023 - The Board of the British Chamber of Commerce Azerbaijan (BCCA) has unveiled the winner of this year's prestigious Robin Bennett Award, recognizing outstanding contribution to Azerbaijani-British relations. The winner was announced at a monthly meeting of the BCCA, attended by Elnur Aliyev, the First Deputy Minister of Economy. This year, the prize was awarded to Baroness Nicholson, the British Prime Ministers Trade Envoy whos undertaking an official four-day visit to Azerbaijan. Awarding the prize to Baroness Nicholson, the Chairman of the BCCA John Patterson said: I am thrilled that we have, over the years, continued to honour the people who make a difference in the business world and across the communities. This year, the prize goes to one such individual who has dedicated her career to building bridges, and indeed making a difference in the lives of constituents she represented as a member of the British parliament and the European parliament, as well as the British governments representative on trade. It is an immense pleasure for us to have Baroness Nicholson with us at the BCCA ceremony. Representing EY Azerbaijan, Assurance Partner Turgay Teymurov said: We at EY believe in building what we call a better working world. This prize is, in essence, a recognition of an individuals continuous commitment to build a better environment for the business community, as well as people around us. We genuinely believe that Baroness Nicholson has been doing just that throughout her career. As one of the sponsors of the event, EY continuously supports initiatives that foster UK-Azerbaijani business relations. The Robin Bennett Award was founded by EY Azerbaijan to commemorate Robin Bennett OBE (1942-2011), one of the founders of the British Business Group (BBG) in Azerbaijan. He came to Baku as EYs Managing Partner and enjoyed a long and illustrious career with the firm. About EY EY is a global leader in assurance, consulting, strategy and transactions, and tax services. The insights and quality services that EY delivers helps build trust and confidence in the capital markets and economies around the world. EY develops outstanding leaders who team to deliver on its promises to all of its stakeholders. In doing so, EY plays a critical role in building a better working world for its people, its clients, and the communities. By Felix Light and Filipp Lebedev (Reuters) -An Iraqi citizen fighting with Russia's Wagner mercenary force was killed in Ukraine in early April, the first confirmed case of a Middle East native dying in the conflict, Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin told Reuters on Wednesday. Abbas Abuthar Witwit died on April 7, a day after arriving at a Wagner hospital in the Russian-controlled, eastern Ukrainian city of Luhansk, the RIA FAN news site earlier reported. Much of the fighting for Bakhmut was done by convict fighters, recruited by Wagner from prisons on the promise of a pardon if they survived six months at the front in Ukraine. In response to a Reuters request for comment, Prigozhin confirmed he had recruited Witwit from prison, saying he was not the first native of an Arab country to have joined from jail. Witwit, he said, had fought well and "died heroically". RIA FAN said Witwit had been wounded in Bakhmut, the city in Donetsk province that Prigozhin said Wagner had taken in mid-May, after a battle that had raged since last year. Prigozhin previously said the whole conflict had cost 20,000 of his men's lives. In video published by RIA FAN, a man identified as Witwit's father is shown receiving awards posthumously given to his son, and that he had supported his decision to enlist in Wagner as a "volunteer". "Abbas always pursued his freedom and wanted to be a man who defends his freedom and himself, and he told me he found his freedom in Russia," he is shown saying. According to court papers seen by Reuters, Witwit was sentenced to four and a half years in prison on drug charges in July 2021 by a court in the Russian city of Kazan. The documents said Witwit was a first year student at a technical university. (Additional reporting by Timour Azhari in Baghdad; editing by Guy Faulconbridge and Alistair Bell) DUBLIN (Reuters) - Ireland's High Court on Wednesday ordered the winding up of two sanctions-hit state-owned Russian leasing firms based in Ireland after a group of creditors said the companies had no prospect of clawing back an almost $1.6 billion net deficit. GTLK Europe DAC and GTLK Europe Capital DAC, whose main business is aircraft leasing, had sought to prevent the appointment of liquidators by applying for court protection from creditors, citing a decree by Russian President Vladimir Putin to relieve $1.5 billion of debt. The High Court denied the request to enter examinership, a process akin to Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States that allows an applicant time to restructure debts while operating as a going concern. "It seems to me that the petitioner did not act in good faith and the relief should be refused," Judge Conor Dignam told the court. He went on to list a number of "fatal" shortcomings of the examinership request, noting that the possible appearance of certain assets in the future did not amount to creation of a reasonable chance of survival for the firms as going concerns. He then appointed joint liquidators, which means the leasing companies' aircraft and shipping assets will no longer be under the control of the Russian government. The companies' business "simply stopped" due to the Western sanctions imposed in response to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, a lawyer for a number of GTLK's bondholders, Kelley Smith, told the court on Tuesday. GTLK, whose clients previously included Aeroflot, Emirates Airlines and easyJet according to a presentation on its website, had already defaulted on 13 interest payments to the tune of $175 million, and would default on hundreds of millions of dollars more in the next year, Smith added. Bondholders are cumulatively owed $3.75 billion, the court was told. GTLK's attempt to enter examinership was hampered on Tuesday when its Irish lawyers were granted permission to cease acting for the companies, telling the court the relationship between them and their client had "broken down catastrophically". That left GTLK with no legal representation for the closing stages of the case. The judge adjudicating earlier proceedings on Monday, Brian O'Moore, had described the timing of the examinership application as "profoundly suspicious" given the companies had said as recently as May 24 when fighting liquidation that they were solvent, only to declare two days later that they were insolvent. (Reporting by Conor Humphries and Padraic Halpin; Editing by Jan Harvey) ROME (Reuters) - Italy has lifted an embargo on arms sales to Saudi Arabia, the government said in a statement following a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday. Military equipment exports to Saudi Arabia had been restricted in 2019 and 2020 to prevent their being used in the Yemen conflict. But the embargo is no longer necessary "in light of the changed situation" on the ground, the government said in its statement, praising Saudi Arabia's recent peace mediation efforts. Yemen has been mired in conflict since the Iran-aligned Houthi group ousted the government from Sanaa, the capital, in late 2014. A Saudi Arabia-led military coalition intervened in 2015 aiming to restore the government. Peace initiatives have seen increased momentum since Riyadh and Tehran in March agreed to restore diplomatic ties severed in 2016. Italy said its decision on Saudi Arabia was "in line" with last month's lifting of another arms embargo imposed on the United Arab Emirates (UAE), also linked to the war in Yemen. (This story has been refiled to remove repetition in paragraph 2) (Reporting by Alvise Armellini; Editing by Leslie Adler) People walk along a street, as Serbian flags are displayed, in Zubin Potok, Kosovo, May 31, 2023. REUTERS/Ognen Teofilovski MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia supports Kosovo's Serbian population and believes their legal rights and interests must be protected, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday. Peskov also said Moscow was following with concern the unrest in Kosovo, which has increased sharply since ethnic Albanian mayors took office in the country's northern Serb-majority area after votes last month. "We support Serbia and the Serbs unconditionally... We consider that all legal rights and interests of the Kosovo Serbs must be observed," Peskov told a daily news briefing, adding that there must be no room for "provocative actions". Serbs refused to take part in the local elections in April and ethnic Albanian candidates won the mayoralties in four Serb-majority municipalities with a 3.5% turnout. NATO said on Tuesday it would send 700 additional troops to Kosovo and put another battalion on high alert to go in as Serbs continue to protest against the ethnic Albanian mayors. NATO already has some 4,000 soldiers currently in Kosovo. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has placed the army on full combat alert and ordered units to move closer to the border. Serbia and its traditional ally Russia do not recognise Kosovo's independence. Moscow has blocked Kosovo's bid to become a member of the United Nations, while Belgrade still considers Kosovo part of its territory. Russia, which has close cultural and religious ties to Serbia, a fellow Orthodox Christian nation, blamed Kosovo and Western countries on Saturday for the escalating tensions in the Balkans. (Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Gareth Jones; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) By Valentine Hilaire MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexican firm KIO is aiming to double the capacity of its data centers over the next two years, taking advantage of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's drive to boost nearshoring and tech firms' expanding Latin American footprint. "Our growth plan involves creating over the next two years the same capacity we have accumulated in the last 22 years. It will be a significant investment," KIO's Chief Executive Officer Jorge Sapien said in an interview on Tuesday. Sapien added that the adoption of data centers in the region has been slow due to companies' apprehension towards outsourcing the hosting of their data. KIO, which operates in five countries and has 20 data centers in its portfolio, is expanding operations in the northern Mexican city Monterrey after acquiring land for its new data campus. The expansion is strategic for the company as it expects to serve firms coming to Mexico due to the nearshoring trend, said Sapien. Nearshoring has seen increasing numbers of companies move production closer to North American buyers - specifically to Mexico - and away from Asia, following supply chain snarls during the pandemic. KIO's growth plans also include Panama, Guatemala, Colombia and Spain. "We are expanding like never before," Sapien said. (Reporting by Valentine Hilaire; Editing by Christopher Cushing) By Sabine Siebold and Gwladys Fouche OSLO (Reuters) - NATO will not allow Russia to decide when Ukraine can join the Western alliance, Norway said on Wednesday as it hosted NATO foreign ministers seeking to narrow divisions over Kyiv's membership bid before a July summit. "It is for Ukraine and NATO allies to decide when Ukraine becomes a NATO member, it's not up to Moscow to decide," Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt told reporters on the eve of a two-day meeting with her NATO counterparts. The alliance has not acceded to Ukraine's request for fast-track membership as Western governments such as the U.S. and Germany are wary of any move that might take the alliance closer to war with Russia. Kyiv and some of its closest allies in eastern Europe want concrete steps to bring Ukraine closer to membership to be agreed when NATO leaders hold a summit on July 11-12 in Vilnius, Lithuania. Last week, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Ukraine would not be able to join while the war with Russia raged but said that would be different when the conflict was over. NATO agreed in 2008 that Ukraine could eventually join the alliance but leaders have so far stopped short of steps, such as giving Kyiv a membership action plan, that would lay out a timetable for bringing Ukraine closer to the military pact. Russia is viscerally opposed to Ukraine joining NATO but its invasion of its neighbour triggered a historic policy shift by Finland, which joined NATO in April, reversing seven decades of military non-alignment. Finland applied to join along with Sweden, whose entry has been held up by Hungary and Turkey, where the re-election of President Tayyip Erdogan at the weekend could bring fresh impetus to Stockholm's membership bid. Norway's Huitfeldt said Sweden should become a full member before NATO's July summit. "There is absolutely no reason for holding Sweden back," she said. "Sweden fulfils all the criteria." Progress in Oslo is unlikely, however, as Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu will not be there. (Reporting by Sabine Siebold and Gwladys Fouche; Editing by Jon Boyle) A North Korean flag flutters at the propaganda village of Gijungdong in North Korea, in this picture taken near the truce village of Panmunjom inside the demilitarized zone (DMZ) separating the two Koreas, South Korea, July 19, 2022. REUTERS/Kim Hong-J LONDON (Reuters) - North Korean missile tests are endangering the safety of commercial shipping in busy sea lanes in northeastern Asia without enough time given for notification, several countries told a UN agency on Wednesday. Nuclear-armed North Korea's sixth satellite launch on Wednesday ended in failure, with the booster and payload plunging into the sea, but it still prompted emergency alerts and evacuation warnings in parts of South Korea and Japan. A resolution adopted by a majority of over 100 countries attending the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) security committee, "strongly" condemned the missile tests "which seriously threatened the safety of seafarers and international shipping". North Korea rejected the resolution and a paper submitted by countries including the United States, South Korea and Japan. It said in response in that the missile tests "constitute routine and planned self-defensive measures taken by a sovereign state to defend the national security". "(North Korea) is not in a position to be able to provide prior notification of its military exercises and self-defensive measures," it said a submission to the IMO committee. North Korea added that the missile launches were "based on the accurate scientific calculation and consideration of their point of impact and the routes of ships voyaging in the waters". The paper was also submitted by Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Spain, Ukraine, Britain and Vanuatu. (Reporting by Jonathan Saul; editing by Grant McCool) FILE PHOTO: Former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence addresses the National Review Institute's 2023 Ideas Summit in Washington, U.S., March 31, 2023. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque By Joseph Ax and Tim Reid (Reuters) - Former Vice President Mike Pence and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie are planning to enter the race for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination next week in long-shot challenges to the dominance of front-runner Donald Trump. Christie, who advised Trump's campaign in 2016 only to become a vocal critic of the former president, will formally announce his 2024 campaign on June 6, a person familiar with the matter said. Pence, who incurred Trump's wrath by refusing to support his effort to overturn the results of the 2020 election, is set to enter the race against his former boss on June 7, three sources familiar with the situation told Reuters. North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum is also planning to enter race on the same day as Pence, according to a person familiar with Burgum's plans. The growing Republican field concerns many Trump opponents inside the Republican Party. They fear a large number of challengers will splinter the anti-Trump vote and hand the party's nomination to the former president, who can rely on at least 30% of the Republican base to back him. Trump has a massive polling lead in a Republican field that now has more than 10 declared or almost-declared candidates. His nearest challenger is Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who entered the race last week. On Wednesday, Pence's polling average in the Republican field was less than 4%, compared to Trump's 53%, according to a RealClearPolitics average of polls. Christie to date has barely registered in the polls. Pence will launch his campaign with a video and a speech in the early nominating state of Iowa, the sources said. A staunch social conservative who stood by Trump throughout his time in his office, Pence has increasingly distanced himself from the former Republican president since his election defeat, saying Trump's encouragement of the rioters who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, put him and his family in danger. Pence, who turns 64 on June 7, has continued to embrace many of Trump's policies, while portraying himself as an even-keeled and consensus-oriented alternative. He has also appealed more directly to the evangelical Christian community. The success of his campaign will hinge on whether he can attract enough backers of Trump's policies who are turned off by the former president's rhetoric and behavior to build a viable coalition. Christie, 60, enters the race as a decided underdog, six years after his 2016 presidential campaign failed to gain traction amid a crowded field that included Trump. Only 1% of Republicans said he would be their preferred 2024 nominee in a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted May 9-15. Christie will officially launch his campaign at a town hall at Saint Anselm College in the early nominating state of New Hampshire on Tuesday, the person familiar with the matter said. Other Republicans who have entered the race include U.S. Senator Tim Scott and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley. (This story has been corrected to remove extraneous word 'Donald' in paragraph 3, fix the number of Republican hopefuls to 'more than 10' in paragraph 6 and change the date of latest polling to Wednesday in paragraph 7) (Reporting by Steve Holland, Joseph Ax and Tim Reid; Editing by Daniel Wallis) (Reuters) - Washington is encouraging Kyiv by publicly ignoring the drone attack that struck several districts of Moscow on Tuesday, Russia's envoy to the United States said on Wednesday, after President Vladimir Putin blamed Ukraine for the strikes. The White House said it did not support attacks inside of Russia and that it was still gathering information on the incident, which Putin called an attempt to scare and provoke Moscow. "What are these attempts to hide behind the phrase that they are 'gathering information'?" Anatoly Antonov, the ambassador, said in remarks published on the Telegram messaging channel. "This is an encouragement for Ukrainian terrorists." Putin on Tuesday cast the assault, which brought the 15-month war in Ukraine to the heart of Russia, as a terrorist act. Ukraine also accuses Russia of terrorism for its bombing of Ukrainian civilians, allegations Moscow denies. A Ukrainian presidential aide denied Kyiv was directly involved in the drone attack on Moscow, but said Ukraine was enjoying watching events and forecast more to come. The attack on Moscow, which injured two, came after Russia launched three air assaults within a day on Kyiv and 17 in May so far, killing two this month, sowing destruction and fear. Russia has long accused what it calls the "collective West" of staging a proxy war against Moscow by supporting Ukraine with military and financial aid. Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, devastating cities, forcing millions of people to flee their homes and costing thousands of lives. Moscow calls the war a "special military operation" to "denazify" Ukraine and protect Russian speakers. Kyiv and its allies say it is an unprovoked land grab. (Reporting by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by Christian Schmollinger and Stephen Coates) FILE PHOTO: General view of the Ryanair logo at their headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, September 16, 2021. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne/ By Julia Payne BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Ryanair delivered a petition signed by 1.1 million EU passengers to the European Commission on Wednesday, demanding overflights be protected from air traffic control (ATC) strikes, particularly in France, to help avoid travel disruption. Earlier this month, the trade group Airlines for Europe, which represents companies such as Lufthansa and Air France-KLM as well as Ryanair, also called on the Commission to take action. CEO Michael O'Leary told reporters France's location meant the cancellation of flights merely passing through its airspace during local strikes was particularly disruptive and polluting. "The next French strike is due June 6-7 and our flights are full and we're being forced to cancel flights. There is a simple solution for this. Other member states have laws that protect overflights," O'Leary said, referring to Greece, Italy and Spain. Ryanair said it called on the Commission to protect 100% of overflights, require a 21-day notice of strike action and a 72-hour notice of employee participation in ATC strikes, among other measures. "The Commission is liaising actively with relevant member states to assess whether and how service continuity for overflights could be improved in the event of strikes," a spokesperson for the Commission said. The spokesperson said the Commission had already called on member states to preserve 100% continuity of service for flights crossing strike-affected countries. "The Commission has a lot of soft power. They can lean on France. It doesn't need to be a law. We don't want legislation because it'll take 25 years here in Brussels... Does the EU have anything in its armoury to embarrass France?" O'Leary said. "We met with the French government and asked for reforms but we got shrugged shoulders," he added. Europe's biggest airline by passenger numbers said in a statement 57 days of ATC strikes during the first five months of the year forced airlines to cancel thousands of flights. The rate of strikes was 10 times greater than in 2022. "France in particular uses minimum service laws to protect their domestic and short-haul flights while disproportionately cancelling overflights," Ryanair said. French officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. O'Leary added the European Union should extend the carbon emissions tax on flights to transfers and long-haul flights that are far more polluting. Lawmakers in Brussels agreed last year to restrict the tax to flights within the European Economic Area. (Reporting by Julia PayneEditing by Jason Neely, Mark Potter and Barbara Lewis) BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The adopted "Cybersecurity Strategy in Financial Markets 2023-2026" will contribute to strengthening cybersecurity in the financial markets of Azerbaijan, Farid Osmanov, Executive Director of the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA), said during the second national cybersecurity Forum, Trend reports. According to Osmanov, the purpose of the new strategy is to increase cyber resilience and strengthen information security in financial markets to ensure financial stability in the country. "This strategy was developed as part of the Central Bank's constant attention to information security and cybersecurity issues in financial institutions. Modern innovations in digitalization of financial markets and the expansion of the availability of financial services, which were provided remotely, create risks in the field of information security," he said. The executive director added that the CBA plans to carry out continuous measures to ensure information security in the country's financial sector. By Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A senior U.S. senator who has long opposed the potential sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey said on Tuesday he wants Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan to take a less belligerent stance toward NATO allies and Turkey's neighbors before lifting his opposition to the deal. "Now what's important is how does Erdogan want to move into the future with Turkey. If he wants to change course from where he's been, I look forward to seeing that," Democrat Bob Menendez, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told reporters in the wake of Erdogan's election victory. "If it's the same, or more of the same, as what we've seen then I'll still have the same positions as I've had before," Menendez said. NATO member Turkey requested in October 2021 to buy $20 billion of Lockheed Martin Corp F-16 fighters and nearly 80 modernization kits for its existing warplanes. President Joe Biden's administration has said it supports the sale and has been in touch for months with Congress to win its approval. But it has faced opposition, notably from Menendez, over a range of issues, including Turkey's resistance to the ratification of Sweden's NATO membership, concerns about the jailing of journalists and other human rights abuses, and Turkish overflights of Greek airspace. "Sweden is only part of the equation. For some members, it may be the whole equation. It's not for me," Menendez said. Menendez said he had not heard from Biden about Turkey since the president's congratulatory call to Erdogan. Erdogan repeated Ankara's desire to buy the F-16s, while Biden told him Washington wanted Ankara to drop its objection to Sweden's joining NATO. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Turkey on Tuesday to immediately finalize Sweden's accession to NATO, and rejected the suggestion that the Biden administration is linking Turkey's approval of Sweden's NATO accession to the F-16 sale. During the informal review process for major weapons sales, the leaders of the Senate Foreign Relations and House Foreign Affairs committees can put "holds" on the deals, stopping them over issues including human rights concerns. Menendez said Blinken has assured him he will respect his hold. (Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Editing by Stephen Coates) FILE PHOTO: A man walks while smoke rises above buildings after aerial bombardment, during clashes between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the army in Khartoum North, Sudan, May 1, 2023. REUTERS/Mohamed Nureldin Abdallah KHARTOUM (Reuters) -Sudan's army suspended talks with a rival paramilitary force on Wednesday over a ceasefire and aid access, raising fears the six-week-old conflict will push Africa's third largest country deeper into a humanitarian crisis. The armed forces said in a statement it halted talks in the Saudi city of Jeddah, accusing the other side of a lack of commitment in implementing any terms of the agreement and a continuous violation of the ceasefire. The negotiations with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which began in early May, had produced a declaration of commitments to protect civilians and two short-term truce agreements, although those deals were repeatedly violated. Eyewitnesses reported on Wednesday that the RSF had expanded its footprint within central Khartoum's Mogran district. They also reported heavy clashes across the Nile in northern Omdurman and northern Bahri through Wednesday evening. At least 17 people were killed and 106 injured after projectiles fell on a market in a dense southern Khartoum on Wednesday, the doctors union said in a statement. It said the local Bashair hospital, one of the few still operating in the capital, was overwhelmed. The war has killed hundreds of people, displaced more than 1.2 million inside Sudan and driven 400,000 others across borders to neighbouring states, the United Nations says. The army, which relies on air power and artillery, and the RSF, a more lightly armed force that has dominated on the ground in Khartoum, had agreed to extend a week-long ceasefire deal by five days just before its Monday expiry. Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, a career military officer, and RSF General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, a former militia commander known as Hemedti, have been locked in a battle for power since April 15. Neither side seems to have an edge. "We do not want to use lethal force. We still haven't used our maximum strength ... We don't want to destroy the country," Burhan said in a military video released on Tuesday, speaking to cheering forces at a military base with a gun slung on his back. "But if the enemy does not obey and does not respond we will be forced to use the strongest force we have." The RSF said in a statement late on Tuesday it was committed to the ceasefire "despite repeated violations" by the army. In a video released by the RSF on Wednesday, Hemedti's brother and RSF number two Abdelrahim Dagalo called on army soldiers to desert and work together with the RSF. "Anyone who wants Sudan's best interests should leave Burhan," he said, adding that his brother was well and on the front lines. Sudan has a history of political upheaval, coups and internal conflicts, but violence had previously hit regions far from Khartoum, which is home to millions of people. CHALLENGING NEGOTIATIONS Commenting on the Sudanese army's withdrawal from the Jeddah talks, Mohamed El Hacen Lebatt, African Union spokesperson on the crisis in Sudan, said: "It is not surprising. It happens often. We hope the mediator will succeed to bring both parties for working on an expected ceasefire." The capital has seen widespread looting and frequent power and water supply cuts. Most hospitals have stopped functioning. Before the ceasefire deal was renewed, an army source said the army had demanded the RSF withdraw from civilian homes and hospitals as a condition for an extension. After the five-day extension was agreed, talks continued on the truce terms. The truce deal was brokered and is being remotely monitored by Saudi Arabia and the United States. They say it has been violated by both sides, although the truce has still allowed the delivery of aid to an estimated 2 million people. Clashes have also erupted outside the capital, including Darfur, a region in the far west of Sudan where a conflict that erupted in 2003 has flared on and off for years. The United Nations, some aid agencies, embassies and parts of Sudan's central government have moved operations out of the capital to Port Sudan on the Red Sea, which has remained calm. Burhan and Hemedti fell out over the chain of command and restructuring of the RSF under a planned transition to civilian rule. After conflict flared, Burhan sacked Hemedti as his deputy in the ruling council that had run Sudan since the two toppled autocratic Islamist President Omar al-Bashir in 2019. (Additional reporting by Khalid Abdelaziz in Dubai, Nafisa Eltahir in Cairo and Dawit Endeshaw in Addis Ababa; writing by Michael Georgy; editing by Edmund Blair, Mark Heinrich and Grant McCool) FILE PHOTO: Tunisia's President Kais Saied gives a statement on the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccination, during a European Union - African Union summit, in Brussels, Belgium February 18, 2022. REUTERS/Johanna Geron/Pool TUNIS (Reuters) - A Tunisian judge has opened a new investigation into political figures including major opponents of President Kais Saied on suspicion of conspiring against state security, a lawyer for one of them said. The case comes after a wave of arrests of opposition figures over recent months that Saied's critics have attacked as a political clampdown, which he denies, and may spur fears of more detentions. The 20 people accused in the new case include the main opposition leader Rached Ghannouchi, who is already in prison, former prime minister Youssef Chahed and Saied's former chief of staff Nadia Akacha, said the lawyer, Nadia Chouachi. The list also includes a former mayor of a Tunis district, a former military officer and a freelance journalist, Chouachi said. Ghannouchi, the former parliament speaker, was among the most prominent political figures of recent Tunisian history as his Ennahda party played a role in successive governments during the democratic period after the 2011 revolution. Now 81, he was sentenced this month to a year in prison for incitement over a funeral elegy for a party member. Police have closed the offices of Ennahda, an Islamist party that had been in governing coalitions with secular parties, across Tunisia. Chahed was prime minister from 2016-20, chosen by the parliament for his technocratic credentials, and was one of the candidates who lost to Saied in the 2019 presidential election. Nadia Akacha was seen as Saied's closest confidante until she left the role of chief of staff last year and moved to France before leaked audio recordings emerged of her voicing strong criticisms of Saied. Tunisia's opposition accuses Saied of a coup for shutting down the parliament in 2021, moving to rule by decree and passing a new constitution through a referendum with low turnout, giving himself nearly unchecked powers. Rights groups have also accused him of undermining judicial independence by replacing main figures on Tunisia's top judiciary committee and warning that judges who freed those arrested this year would be considered as abetting them. He has denied carrying out a coup, saying his actions were legal and necessary to save Tunisia, and accuses his opponents of being criminals, traitors and terrorists. (Reporting by Tarek Amara, writing by Angus McDowall, Editing by William Maclean) Christopher Krebs, former director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, testifies during a Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee hearing to discuss election security and the 2020 election process, in Washington, U.S (Adds dropped word in second paragraph to clarify Krebs was interviewed) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. special counsel investigating former President Donald Trump and efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss are examining his firing of a cybersecurity official whose office said the vote was secure, the New York Times said on Wednesday. Special Counsel Jack Smith, who is also probing Trump's handling of classified documents, has subpoenaed former Trump White House staff as well as interviewed Christopher Krebs, who oversaw the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency under Trump, the Times said, citing unnamed sources familiar with the matter. Trump fired Krebs in November 2020, days after the CISA issued a statement calling the Nov. 3, 2020, election "the most secure in American history" at a time of the then-president's unsupported accusations the vote had been rigged. CISA, part of the Department of Homeland Security, works to protect U.S. elections from hackers but drew Trump's ire at the time, leading Krebs to tell associates at the time that he expected to be fired. Representatives for Smith's office declined to comment on the report. Representatives for Krebs and Trump could not immediately be reached for comment. The front-runner in the race for the Republican 2024 presidential nomination, Trump has persisted in making unfounded claims of widespread election fraud and promised pardons for his supporters who attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in a failed effort to block congressional certification of Democrat Joe Biden's presidential victory. Smith is leading a grand jury investigation into Trump's actions around his election loss. A special bipartisan U.S. House of Representatives committee last year urged the Department of Justice to charge Trump with multiple crimes, including inciting or aiding an insurrection. In the state of Georgia, a county prosecutor also is probing alleged interference in the state's 2020 election with charging decisions expected by Sept. 1. Trump also faces several other legal threats, including Smith's probe into classified documents found at Trump's personal residence in Florida after the former president left the White House in early 2021. A New York grand jury in March indicted Trump for falsifying business records related to a hush money payment to a porn star before the 2016 election. New York's attorney general has sued Trump and his company for alleged fraud. Trump has denied all the allegations and accused prosecutors of a political "witch hunt." (This story has been refiled to clarify that Krebs was interviewed, in paragraph 2) (Writing by Susan Heavey; Editing by Howard Goller) U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken gestures next to European Commission Vice President Margrethe Vestager during an event in connection with Trade and Technology Council (TTC), in Lulea, Sweden May 31, 2023. TT News Agency/Jonas Ekstromer via REUTERS By Philip Blenkinsop LULEA, Sweden (Reuters) - The United States and the European Union pledged on Wednesday to join forces to counter China's non-market economic practices and disinformation, particularly over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The two partners sought at their Trade and Technology Council in Sweden to find common interests, such as over artificial intelligence and future trade in environmentally-friendly goods, but China proved a pervasive topic. They said in a joint statement at the end of a fourth ministerial TTC meeting that they were ready to address non-market practices together and multilaterally. They highlighted China's policies in the medical devices sector and their adverse effect on EU and U.S. workers, saying they were "exploring possible coordinated actions". China faces criticism that it has closed its medical devices market to non-Chinese producers and discriminates against foreign producers in public tenders. The statement said the EU and the United States were deeply concerned about foreign information manipulation, interference and disinformation. It said Russian information surrounding its invasion of Ukraine and China's "amplification of Russian disinformation narratives" were stark examples of the dangers. Brussels says it considers China a partner in some fields, an economic competitor and a strategic rival. The European Union plans to recalibrate its China policy, recognising coordination with a more hawkish United States is essential. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the EU's and the United States' views of China had increasingly converged, noting neither was looking for confrontation. "None of us are looking for decoupling. On the contrary, we all benefit from trade and investment with China. But as opposed to decoupling, we are focused on de-risking and you've heard the same language coming from leaders on both sides of the Atlantic," he told a press conference. The two sides said they would look into action to reinforce civil society and fact-checking organisations in third countries, notably in Africa and Latin America, where they said the negative impact of disinformation could be seen. They also said they were committed to working with the G7 to coordinate action to counteract acts of economic coercion, which would include trade restrictions the EU says China has imposed on EU member Lithuania. (Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise) FILE PHOTO: A person waits at a Walmart Pharmacy where the Moderna coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine is available as Walmart and other major U.S. pharmacies take part in the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, to increase vaccinations in the U.S. in Wes By Siddharth Cavale BENTONVILLE, Ark. (Reuters) - Walmart is raising wages for thousands of U.S. pharmacists and opticians, the retailer said on Wednesday, part of its broader plan to expand primary care services across the country. The Bentonville, Arkansas-based chain said about 3,700 pharmacists would get a bump in pay starting on Wednesday, bringing their total annual average pay to more than $140,000, excluding bonuses and incentives. More than 4,000 opticians will also receive fatter paychecks, with their average hourly pay rising to more than $22.50 with this investment, Walmart executives wrote in a blog post. The company declined to provide details on their wage rates last year or how it will select the employees for the hikes. Salary rates vary based on location and role, so not all pharmacists and opticians will earn the average annual or hourly salary, Walmart spokesperson Nick DeMoss said. Walmart is the nation's largest private employer and the salary move comes on the heels of its announcement to double the number of its in-store healthcare centers and expand into new states. Health clinics in retailers' pharmacies played an outsized role in dispensing COVID vaccines and treatments during the pandemic and the companies are now looking to position themselves to grab a larger share of the healthcare services market. Walmart's 'Health' centers typically offer primary care, dental care, behavioral health and labs and X-ray services. Wednesday's hikes come nearly a year after the company raised wages for 36,000 pharmacy technicians, bumping up their average hourly pay to more than $20. Pharmacy technicians, who fill medicine prescriptions, process third-party insurance claims and help patients check out at the pharmacy, are not part of Wednesday's announcement, DeMoss said. Pharmacists, unlike the technicians, receive higher pay because of their higher level of education and advanced medical knowledge, DeMoss added. Walmart, CVS Health and Amazon.com have all been expanding into patient healthcare services over the past few years by partnering with or acquiring medical companies. Amazon paid $3.49 billion to buy primary care provider One Medical, while CVS agreed to buy home healthcare services company Signify Health for about $8 billion, last year. "We're serious about being an employer of choice for the talented individuals in these fields. That's why we're investing in pay raises for thousands of pharmacists and opticians in stores across the country," Kevin Host, senior vice president of Walmart's Pharmacy business and David Reitnauer, vice president of its Optical business wrote in a blog post. (This story has been corrected to say 'opticians' instead of 'optometrists' in paragraph 1) (Reporting by Siddharth Cavale in Bentonville, Arkansas; Editing by Bill Berkrot) FILE PHOTO-A man walks past a logo of Xiaomi, a Chinese manufacturer of consumer electronics, outside a shop in Mumbai, India, May 11, 2022. REUTERS/Francis Mascarenhas BENGALURU (Reuters) - Contract manufacturer Dixon Technologies (India) Ltd on Wednesday said it is partnering with Xiaomi Corp's Indian arm to make and export phones for the Chinese firm. The news, which boosted Dixon's shares by 4%, comes after Xiaomi India revealed plans to start making wireless audio products in the country by partnering with electronics manufacturer Optiemus. India has been encouraging global companies to invest more in local manufacturing as a part of its efforts to become a powerhouse in the global electronics supply chain. Earlier in March, Xiaomi India President Muralikrishnan B. told Reuters that the company will open more stores beyond its current network of 20,000 retail partners and boost local procurement of mobile phone parts, in an effort to reduce costs. (Reporting by Navamya Ganesh Acharya in Bengaluru; Editing by Savio D'Souza and Sonia Cheema) Filed by Bite Acquisition Corp. pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act of 1933 and deemed filed pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Subject Company: Bite Acquisition Corp. Commission File No.: 001-40055 Date: May 30, 2023 Above Food Corp. to Present at Gravitas 4th Los Angeles Summit Regina, Saskatchewan, May 30, 2023 Above Food Corp. (Above Food or the Company), an innovative food company leveraging its vertically integrated supply chain to deliver differentiated ingredients and consumer products, is pleased to announce it will be presenting at Gravitas Securities Inc. 4th Los Angeles Summit, which will be taking place at The Beverly Hills Hotel from Sunday, June 4th to Tuesday, June 6th, 2023, in Beverly Hills, California. Mr. Lionel Kambeitz, President, CEO and Executive Chairman, is scheduled to present on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. PDT. Mr. Kambeitz will also be fielding investor questions during the in-person summit. The Gravitas Summits brings together new and exciting companies that are in the early stages of rapid development and growth, and we are pleased to be participating with Gravitas in this Summit. said Mr. Kambeitz. Our message at the Summit will define our leadership position in the identity preserved, regenerative field-to-fork food platform. Gravitas Securities Inc. 4th Los Angeles Summit will feature public and private companies across various industries that will be given the opportunity to present to a highly selective audience of venture capital, family office, and institutional investors attending from Canada, the United States, and abroad. For registration details, please CLICK HERE. Summit Details: Event: Gravitas 4th Los Angeles Summit Format: Presentations and Q&A Presentation Dates: Monday, June 5th and Tuesday, June 6th, 2023 Time: 9:00 AM PDT 4:00 PM PDT Venue: In-person at The Beverly Hills Hotel On April 29, 2023, Above Food entered into a definitive business combination agreement with Bite Acquisition Corp. (NYSE AMERICAN: BITE) (Bite), a special purpose acquisition company. Completion of the proposed business combination is subject to approval by the shareholders of Bite and certain other conditions. Upon closing of the proposed transaction, which is expected to occur in the second half of 2023, Above Food expects to list on the New York Stock Exchange under the new ticker symbol ABVE. About Above Food Above Food Corp. is a differentiated, regenerative ingredient company that celebrates delicious products made with real nutritious, flavorful ingredients and delivered with transparency. Above Foods vision is to create a healthier world one seed, one field, and one bite at a time. With a robust chain of custody of plant proteins, enabled by scaled operations and infrastructure in primary agriculture and processing, Above Food delivers nutritious foods to businesses and consumers with traceability and sustainability. Above Foods consumer products and brands are available online at www.abovefood.com and in leading grocers across Canada and the United States. About Bite Acquisition Corp. Bite Acquisition Corp is a special purpose acquisition company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. Bite is led by Chair and CEO Alberto Ardura and a team of successful industry executives, and venture capital investors who have long track records of operating business in the restaurant and food industries. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements included in this Press Release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as believe, may, will, estimate, continue, anticipate, intend, expect, should, would, plan, predict, potential, seem, seek, future, outlook, and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or events that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the completion of the proposedbusiness combination, including the timing thereof, and the ability of Above Food to list on the New York Stock Exchange. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this Press Release, and on the current expectations of Above Foodsand Bites management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of Above Food and Bite. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including (i) changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; (ii) the inability of the parties to successfully or timely consummate the proposed transaction, including the risk that any required regulatory approvals are not obtained, are delayed or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect the combined company, the expected benefits of the proposed transaction or that the approval of the stockholders of Bite or Above Food is not obtained, any of the other conditions to closing are not satisfied or that events or other circumstances give rise to the termination of the business combination agreement relating to the proposed transaction;(iii) changes to the structure of the proposed transaction that may be required or appropriate as a result of applicable laws or regulations or as a condition to obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals; (iv) the ability to meet stock exchange listing standards following the consummationof the proposed transaction; (v) the risk that the proposed transaction disrupts current plans and operations of Above Food as a result of the announcement and consummation of the proposed transaction; (vi) failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction, which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of the combined company to grow and manage growth profitably, maintain relationships with customers and suppliers and retain its management and key employees; (vii) costs related to the proposed transactions; (viii) changes in applicable law or regulations; (ix) risks relating to the uncertainty of the projected financial information with respect to Above Food; (x) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Bite or Above Food; (xi) the effects of competition on Above Foods future business; (xii) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Above Foods business; (xiii) the ability of Bite or the combined company to issue equity or equity-linked securities or obtain debt financing in connection with the proposed transaction or in the future; (xiv) the enforceability of Above Foods intellectual property rights, including its copyrights, patents, trademarks and trade secrets, and the potential infringement on the intellectual property rights of others; (xv) Above Foods ability to execute its planned acquisition strategy, including to successfully integrate completed acquisitions and realize anticipated synergies; and (xvi) those factors discussed under the heading Risk Factors in Bite's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the SEC on March 31, 2023, and other documents filed, or to be filed, by Bite and/or Above Food (in case of Above Food, pursuant to the business combination agreement, through 2510169 Alberta Inc., an Alberta corporation and a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Above Food (TopCo) with the SEC. If any of these risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that none of Bite or Above Food presently know or that Bite or Above Food currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward- looking statements reflect Bites and Above Foods expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this Press Release. Bite and Above Food anticipate that subsequent events and developments may cause Bites and Above Foods assessments to change. However, while Bite and Above Food may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, Bite and Above Food specifically disclaim any obligation to do so. Nothing in this communication should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements set forth herein will be achieved or that any of the contemplated results of such forward-looking statements will be achieved. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements. Certain market data information in this Press Release is based on the estimates of Above Food and Bite management. Above Food and Bite obtained the industry, market and competitive position data used throughout this Press Release from internal estimates and research as well as from industry publications and research, surveys and studies conducted by third parties. Above Food and Bite believe their estimates to be accurate as of the date of this Press Release. However, this information may prove to be inaccurate because of the method by which Above Food or Bite obtained some of the data for its estimates or because this information cannot always be verified due to the limits on the availability and reliability of raw data and the voluntary nature of the data gathering process. Important Information This press release does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the proposed transaction and is not intended to form the basis of any investment decision or any other decision in respect of the proposed transaction. In connection with the proposed transaction, Bite and Above Food, through TopCo intend to file with the SEC a registration statement on Form F-4 (the Registration Statement), including a proxy statement/prospectus relating to the proposed transaction, which will be mailed once definitive to holders of Bites common stock in connection with Bites solicitation of proxies for the vote by Bites stockholders regarding the proposed transaction and related matters, as will be described in the Registration Statement, and including a prospectus relating to, among other things, the offer of the securities to be issued by TopCo in connection with the proposed transaction. Investors and security holders and other interested parties are urged to read the proxy statement/prospectus, and any amendments thereto and any other documents filed with the SEC when they become available, carefully and in their entirety because they will contain important information about Bite, Above Food and the proposed transaction. Investors and security holders may obtain free copies of the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus and definitive proxy statement/prospectus(when available) and other documents filed with the SEC by Bite or TopCo through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov. These documents (when they are available) can also be obtained free of charge from Bite upon written request to Bite by emailing [email protected] Non-GAAP Financial Measures This press release includes certain financial measures not presented in accordance with genera ly accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP), including, but not limited to Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin and certain pro forma financial data, in each case presented on a non- GAAP basis, and certain ratios and other metrics derived therefrom. The Company defines Adjusted EBITDA as earnings before interest expense, taxes, depreciation and amortization, adjusted for non- recurring items that are infrequent or abnormal to the companys normal operations resulting from discontinued operations, extraordinary items, unusual or infrequent items, and changes resulting from changes in accounting policies/principles, and Adjusted EBITDA Margin as Adjusted EBITDA divided by revenues. A reconciliation of certain of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most comparable GAAP measure is set forth in the appendix of the investor presentation furnished with Bites Current Report on Form 8-K. These non-GAAP financial measures are not measures of financial performance in accordance with GAAP and may exclude items that are significant in understanding and assessing the Companys financial results. Therefore, these measures should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative to net income, cash flows from operations or other measuresof profitability, liquidity or performance under GAAP. You should be aware that the Companys press release of these measures may not be comparable to similarly-titled measures used by other companies. The Company believes these non-GAAP measures of financial results provide useful information to management and investors regarding certain financial and business trends relating to the Companys financial condition and results of operations. The Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide an additional tool for investors to use in evaluating ongoing operating results and trends in and in comparing the Companys financial measures with other similar companies, many of which present similar non-GAAP financial measures to investors. These non-GAAP financial measures are subject to inherent limitations as they reflect the exercise of judgments by management about which expense and income are excluded or included in determining these non-GAAP financial measures. This press release also includes certain projections of non-GAAP financial measures. Due to the high variability and difficulty in making accurate forecasts and projections of some of the information excluded from these projected measures, together with some of the excluded information not being ascertainable or accessible, the Company is unable to quantify certain amounts that would be required to be included in the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures without unreasonable effort. Consequently, no disclosure of estimated comparable GAAP measures is included and no reconciliation of the forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures is included. Participants in the Solicitation Bite and Above Food and their respective directors and certain of their respective executive officers, other members of management and employees, under SEC rules, may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies with respect to the proposed transaction. Information about the directors and executive officersof Bite is included in Bites Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on March 31, 2023, which is available free of charge at the SECs website at www.sec.gov. Additional information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be set forth in the Registration Statement and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC regarding the proposed transaction by Bite or TopCo. Stockholders, potential investors and other interested persons should read the Registration Statement (when available) carefully before making any voting or investment decisions. These documents, when available, can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above. No Offer or Solicitation This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to and shall not constitute an offer to sell or exchange, or the solicitation of an offer to sell, exchange, buy or subscribe for any securities or a solicitation of any vote of approval, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and otherwise in accordance with applicable law. Contacts Media: Nathaniel Garnick/Grace Cartwright Gasthalter & Co. +1 (212) 257-4170 [email protected] Investors: [email protected] Filed Pursuant to Rule 433 Registration Statement No. 333-264388 Bank of Montreal Market Linked Securities Market Linked SecuritiesLeveraged Upside Participation to a Cap with Contingent Absolute Return and Fixed Percentage Buffered Downside Principal at Risk Securities Linked to the VanEck Gold Miners ETF due July 7, 2025 Term Sheet to Preliminary Pricing Supplement No. ELN1841 dated May 31, 2023 Summary of Terms Hypothetical Payout Profile*** Issuer : Bank of Montreal ***assumes a maximum return equal to the lowest possible maximum return that may be determined on the pricing date. If the ending price is less than the threshold price, you will have 1-to-1 downside exposure to the decrease in the price of the Fund in excess of the buffer amount and will lose some, and possibly up to 80%, of the face amount of your securities at maturity. On the date of the accompanying preliminary pricing supplement, the estimated initial value of the securities is $952.20 per security. The estimated initial value of the securities on the pricing date may differ from this value but will not be less than $912.20 per security. However, as discussed in more detail in the accompanying preliminary pricing supplement, the actual value of the securities at any time will reflect many factors and cannot be predicted with accuracy. See Estimated Value of the Securities in the accompanying preliminary pricing supplement. Preliminary Pricing Supplement: https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/927971/000121465923008082/g526239fwp.htm Market Measure: VanEck Gold Miners ETF (the " Fund ") Pricing Date*: June 30, 2023 Issue Date*: July 6, 2023 Face Amount and Original Offering Price: $1,000 per security Maturity Payment Amount (per security): if the ending price is greater than the starting price: $1,000 plus the lesser of: (i) $1,000 fund return upside participation rate; and (ii) the maximum return; if the ending price is less than or equal to the starting price, but greater than or equal to the threshold price: $1,000 + ($1,000 x absolute value of fund return); or if the ending price is less than the threshold price: $1,000 + [$1,000 (fund return + buffer amount)] Stated Maturity Date*: July 7, 2025 Starting Price: The fund closing price (as defined in the product supplement) of the Fund on the pricing date Ending Price: The fund closing price of the Fund on the calculation day Maximum Return: At least 34.00% of the face amount per security, to be determined on the pricing date Threshold Price: 80% of the starting price Buffer Amount: 20% Upside Participation Rate: 150% Fund Return: (ending price starting price) / starting price Calculation Day*: June 27, 2025 Calculation Agent: BMO Capital Markets Corp. (BMOCM), an affiliate of the issuer Denominations: $1,000 and any integral multiple of $1,000 Agent Discount**: Up to 2.575%; dealers, including those using the trade name Wells Fargo Advisors ( WFA ), may receive a selling concession of up to 2.00% and WFA may receive a distribution expense fee of 0.075% CUSIP: 06374VW93 Material Tax Consequences: See the preliminary pricing supplement. *subject to change ** In addition, selected dealers may receive a fee of up to 0.10% for marketing and other services The securities have complex features and investing in the securities involves risks not associated with an investment in conventional debt securities. See Selected Risk Considerations in this term sheet and the accompanying preliminary pricing supplement and Risk Factors in the accompanying product supplement. This introductory term sheet does not provide all of the information that an investor should consider prior to making an investment decision. Investors should carefully review the accompanying preliminary pricing supplement, product supplement, prospectus supplement and prospectus before making a decision to invest in the securities. NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY Selected Risk Considerations The risks set forth below are discussed in detail in the Selected Risk Considerations section in the accompanying preliminary pricing supplement and the Risk Factors section in the accompanying product supplement. Please review those risk disclosures carefully. Risks Relating To The Terms And Structure Of The Securities If The Ending Price Is Less Than The Threshold Price, You Will Lose Some, And Possibly Up To 80%, Of The Face Amount Of Your Securities At Maturity. No Periodic Interest Will Be Paid On The Securities. Your Return Will Be Limited To The Maximum Return And May Be Lower Than The Return On A Direct Investment In The Fund. Any Positive Return Based On The Depreciation of The Fund Is Effectively Capped. The Securities Are Subject To Credit Risk. Significant Aspects Of The Tax Treatment Of The Securities Are Uncertain. The Stated Maturity Date May Be Postponed If The Calculation Day Is Postponed. Risks Relating To The Estimated Value Of The Securities And Any Secondary Market The Estimated Value Of The Securities On The Pricing Date, Based On Our Proprietary Pricing Models, Will Be Less Than The Original Offering Price. The Terms Of The Securities Are Not Determined By Reference To The Credit Spreads For Our Conventional Fixed-Rate Debt. The Estimated Value Of The Securities Is Not An Indication Of The Price, If Any, At Which WFS Or Any Other Person May Be Willing To Buy The Securities From You In The Secondary Market. The Value Of The Securities Prior To Stated Maturity Will Be Affected By Numerous Factors, Some Of Which Are Related In Complex Ways. The Securities Will Not Be Listed On Any Securities Exchange And We Do Not Expect A Trading Market For The Securities To Develop. Risks Relating to the Fund The Maturity Payment Amount Will Depend Upon The Performance Of The Fund And Therefore The Securities Are Subject To A Variety of Risks, As Discussed In More Detail In The Accompanying Product Supplement. The Holdings Of The Fund Are Concentrated In The Gold And Silver Mining Industries. You Will Not Have Any Shareholder Rights And Will Have No Right To Receive Any Shares Of The Fund at Maturity. The Securities Are Subject To Exchange Rate Risk. The Price of the Fund May Be Disproportionately Affected By the Performance of a Small Number of Stocks. Risks Relating to Conflicts of Interest Our Economic Interests And Those Of Any Dealer Participating In The Offering Are Potentially Adverse To Your Interests. The Issuer has filed a registration statement (including a prospectus) with the SEC for the offering to which this document relates. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus in that registration statement and the other documents that the Issuer has filed with the SEC for more complete information about us and this offering. You may obtain these documents free of charge by visiting the SECs website at http://www.sec.gov. Alternatively, the Issuer will arrange to send to you the prospectus (as supplemented by the prospectus supplement) if you request it by calling the Issuers agent toll-free at 1-877-369-5412. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, members SIPC, separate registered broker-dealers and non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company. WASHINGTON A combination of problems is making recruiting more difficult for the Air National Guard and the reserve component of the Air Force expects to be up to 4,000 recruits short of its staffing requirements for 2023, its commanding general said Tuesday. Lt. Gen. Michael Loh pointed to a difficult recruiting landscape that has plagued the entire U.S. military in recent years, including a smaller candidate pool and fewer recruiting resources. He also said signing up new members has been more challenging since the United States went to an all-volunteer force nearly 50 years ago. Recruiting has been hard since 1974, he said Tuesday during a discussion with the Center for a New American Security, a left-leaning Washington-based think tank that studies national security and defense issues. Thats when the all-volunteer force came out, so its been hard. In the last two years, however, recruiting troops has become more difficult for most of the services. The Army, Navy and Air Force have already said they expect to miss their recruiting targets this year. The Air Force said in April that it expects to be about 10% short of its recruiting target of 27,000 for 2023. Some of the issues that are having a major impact on recruiting in the Air Force and Air National Guard, Loh said, are delays related to various administrative changes and lingering effects from the coronavirus pandemic. What I have found is that what used to take 30 to 40 days to get a recruit in now takes 90 days. So its three times as long, he said of the delays. We have had a combination of years that have been more difficult because COVID-19 shut down schools, and really shut down society and we didnt have recruiters out there. Without access to those schools, recruiters havent been able to influence the influencers, Loh said, emphasizing the importance of getting enlistment specialists in front of the students who are interested and qualify for service. So that has combined to have a [staffing] deficit right now somewhere between 3,000 and 4,000, he said. That range is down a little from the estimate given a couple months ago by Lt. Gen. Caroline Miller, the Air Forces deputy chief of staff for manpower, personnel, and services. She told the House Armed Services Committee in March that the Air National Guard was projected to be about 4,600 short of its staffing requirements this year. A bump in recruiting in the spring has helped improve recruiting a bit, according to the National Guard Association of the United States. Loh said a new effort to boost the total Reserve force is intended to make it easier for active-duty airmen to move to the Air National Guard. He said there is also a push to get more recruiters into the field each of whom usually bring in between 30 and 60 new Air Guard candidates. He appealed to recruits with one message that he believes could solve the entire crisis if enough young Americans hear it. Once [we] get them in, they see what the [Air National] Guard is all about, they like what we offer, Loh said, noting the retention rates in some units is more than 98%. So, they like us and they want to stick with us, but [we] have got to get them in the door. Loh, director of the Air National Guard since 2020, also expressed some concern Tuesday about a possible lack of funding given the Air Forces modernization plans. He talked about potential issues with some aircraft such as A-10 attack aircraft, some F-16 and F-15 fighter jets, C-130s transport planes and KC-135 refueling tankers and how they will be retired and replaced by other planes. The things that keep me up at night we need a concurrent and proportional recapitalization plan across all those platforms, he said. Managing Director & Senior Partner of Boston Consulting Group (BCG) Pattabi Seshadri, who is on a visit to Azerbaijan, has conducted a master class on "BCGs energy transition" at SOCARs Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS) within the framework of Baku Energy Week. Speaking at the meeting, which was attended by professors, teachers, administrative staff and students of the university, BHOS Rector Elmar Gasimov said that he was pleased to welcome representatives of a global consulting company at Baku Higher Oil School. Speaking about the importance of the energy transition, the rector expressed confidence that the master class would yield useful information. In his presentation, Pattabi Seshadri spoke about BCG's approach to the energy transition at global and local levels, the company's goals and the positive economic, environmental and social aspects of the energy transition. He talked about the energy transition policy, the use of "green energy", important decarbonization measures, the work planned to develop this area, the existing infrastructure in Azerbaijan and the country's potential. Pattabi Seshadri also gave recommendations to the meeting participants and answered their questions. At the end of the event, Rector of Baku Higher Oil School Elmar Gasimov presented Pattabi Seshadri with the Diploma of Honorary Guest of Baku Higher Oil School. ALBANY, N.Y. (Tribune News Service) 10th Mountain Division leadership and familiar north country faces filled the state Capitol Tuesday for this year's annual Fort Drum Day. It's been nearly four years since the last Fort Drum Day, which was started in 2012 by now-retired state Sen. Patricia A. Ritchie but suspended after 2019 by the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a chance for the leadership and members of the most deployed Army division and the largest military post in New York to interface with the state's leadership, meeting with key lawmakers on military and Fort Drum-related issues. Along with the leaders of the division and post, 14 New York-born service members joined the delegation visiting the Capitol Tuesday. The day is also a chance for the organizations in the north country that work closely with Fort Drum, like the Fort Drum Regional Liaison Organization, the Greater Watertown-North Country Chamber of Commerce and the Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust to meet with state leadership as well, introduce themselves to legislators who may make decisions on funding their organizations and advocate for the north country as a whole. The day culminated with a Fort Drum color guard procession leading the opening of the state Senate, and a speech from Col. Matthew W. Braman, Deputy Commander for Support for the 10th Mountain Division. "It's our honor to be here today," he said on the floor of the state Senate before introducing the history of the division, from its World War II-era beginnings to its 1980s revival at Fort Drum and subsequent growth to become the most frequently-deployed division in the Army today. "And today our division headquarters is deployed to Romania on assist missions as we ensure our allies and partners in Romania, Hungary and throughout the Baltics," he said. "Our division's tactical headquarters is deployed to Poland to support the security assistance group in Ukraine, ensuring the timing and delivery of material to the Ukraine government training their soldiers so they can defeat the Russians. And finally, our soldiers in Finland, back doing the mission this division was designed to do at its inception, of becoming alpine warriors." Sen. Mark C. Walczyk, R-Watertown, who hosted the 10th Mountain Division contingent in the state Senate Tuesday, reflected on the importance of the post to the state as its largest single-site employer and as a source of immense pride. "As host of the 10th Mountain Division, I think of the economic impact of being a military community, supporting their mission, but as United States citizens, you should know that the recognizable patch the leader mentioned, of crossed bayonets with a mountaintop over it, is something that we should all be very proud of as New Yorkers." Assemblyman Scott A. Gray, R-Watertown, who represents Fort Drum in Albany and hosted the contingent in the Assembly earlier Tuesday, said the visit was geared toward keeping Albany leaders aware of Fort Drum, its unique characteristics and its impact on the north country and New York state. "Obviously, the post is federal," he said. "But we are trying to make sure that interaction is there, that (state officials) understand what the economic impact is, and that's big. That's broader than just northern New York even." He said that Fort Drum and U.S. Department of Defense officials remain interested in working with state leaders on some key issues, like offering parity or a grace period for military spouses who hold teaching certificates in other states to allow them to teach in New York. Gray said it's important for state officials to see Fort Drum, to be aware of its existence and aware of the unique way it interacts with the communities around it. The post has neither a school nor a hospital, relying on local school districts and the hospitals in Carthage, Lowville and Watertown to offer the services typically provided by DOD staff on post. Gray said that allows for a much deeper community connection to the post, but said the decision-makers in Albany sometimes need to be reminded of the unique circumstances. "I have a bill on the reciprocation of teacher's certificates, and a member came up to me and said the bill won't move the way it is," he said. "I said this is important for Fort Drum, and he said 'that's a federal school anyhow.' That sent the bells off to me that they don't understand that Fort Drum is a decentralized base." As the 10th Mountain Division officials moved through Albany, one consistent appeal was for local leaders to advocate for recruitment in their home districts. "If you didn't hear the message from (Col. Braman) I'll repeated it once again. Recruit, recruit, recruit," said Sen. Walczyk. "There is an excellent division here in New York state where young men and women from your districts can continue to call New York home, and there is a place for them in the United States Army." (c)2023 Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, N.Y.) Visit www.watertowndailytimes.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A Navy fighter pilot was rescued Wednesday morning after ejecting from his jet over waters north of Key West, service officials said. The pilot, assigned to Naval Air Station Key West, Fla., ejected from his F-5N about 25 miles north of the air stations Boca Chica Field at about 9:20 a.m., according to a Navy statement. An F-5N is a Navy single-seat adversary fighter jet used in air-to-air combat training. The pilot was rescued by a MH-60S helicopter search-and-rescue crew from NAS Key West and was taken to a Miami-area hospital for further evaluation, according to the statement. The pilots status was not immediately available Wednesday. Additional details about the incident were scarce, including the reason the pilot chose to eject, a service spokesperson said. An investigation was expected to begin shortly. The pilot was assigned to NAS Key Wests Fighter Squadron Composite (VFC) 111 Sun Downers, the Navy said. The unit is a Navy Reserve squadron. CAIRO At least 60 infants, toddlers and older children perished over the past six weeks while trapped in harrowing conditions in an orphanage in Sudan's capital as fighting raged outside. Most died from lack of food and from fever. Twenty-six died in two days over the weekend. The extent of the children's suffering emerged from interviews with more than a dozen doctors, volunteers, health officials and workers at the Al-Mayqoma orphanage. The Associated Press also reviewed dozens of documents, images, and videos showing the deteriorating conditions at the facility. Video taken by orphanage workers shows bodies of children tightly bundled in white sheets awaiting burial. In other footage, two dozen toddlers wearing only diapers sit on the floor of a room, many of them wailing, as a woman carries two metal jugs of water. Another woman sits on the floor with her back to the camera, rocking back and forth and apparently cradling a child. An orphanage worker later explained that the toddlers were moved to the large room after nearby shelling blanketed another part of the facility with heavy dust last week. "It is a catastrophic situation," Afkar Omar Moustafa, a volunteer at the orphanage, said in a phone interview. "This was something we expected from day one (of the fighting)." Among the dead were babies as young as three months, according to death certificates as well as four orphanage officials and workers for charities now helping the facility. The weekend was particularly deadly, with 14 children perishing Friday and 12 on Saturday. This raised alarm and outrage across social media, and a local charity was able to deliver food, medicine and baby formula to the orphanage on Sunday, with the help of the U.N. children's agency, UNICEF, and the International Committee of the Red Cross. Orphanage workers warned that more children could die, and called for their speedy evacuation out of war-torn Khartoum. The battle for control of Sudan erupted April 15, pitting the Sudanese military, led by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces commanded by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo. The fighting has turned Khartoum and other urban areas into battlefields. Many houses and civilian infrastructure have been looted or were damaged by stray shells and bullets. The fighting has inflicted a heavy toll on civilians, particularly children. More than 860 civilians, including at least 190 children, were killed and thousands of others were wounded since April 15, according to Sudan's Doctors' Syndicate which tracks civilian casualties. The tally is likely to be much higher. More than 1.65 million people have fled to safer areas inside Sudan or crossed into neighboring countries. Others remain trapped inside their homes, unable to escape as food and water supplies dwindle. The clashes have also disrupted the work of humanitarian groups. More than 13.6 million children are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance in Sudan, up from nearly nine million prior to the war, according to UNICEF. As of Monday, there were at least 341 children at the orphanage, including 165 infants between the ages of one and six months and 48 ranging from seven to 12 months, according to data obtained by the AP. The remaining 128 children were between the ages of one and 13 years. Among those at the orphanage were two dozen children who had been sent back from Khartoum hospitals after the outbreak of fighting. The hospitals, where the children received advanced treatment, had to shut down because of lack of power or nearby shelling, said Heba Abdalla, who joined the orphanage as a child and is now a nurse there. Spokespeople for the military, the RSF, the health ministry and the social development ministry, which oversees the orphanage, didn't answer requests for comment about the orphanage. The situation was particularly harrowing in the first three weeks of the conflict when fighting was heaviest. At one point during this time, the children were moved to the first floor away from windows, to avoid being hit by random fire or shrapnel, said another nurse, known as Sister Teresa. "It looked like a prison ... all of us were like prisoners unable to even look from the window. We were all trapped," she said. During this period, food, medicine, baby formula and other supplies dwindled because caretakers were unable to get out and seek help, Abdalla said. "On many days, we couldn't find anything for feed them," Abdalla said. "They (the children) were crying all the time because they were hungry." As the facility became inaccessible, the number of nurses, nannies and other caretakers dropped. Many of the caretakers were refugees from Ethiopia, Eritrea or South Sudan who fled the fighting like hundreds of thousands of others, said Abdalla. "We ended up have one nanny or two serving 20 children or more, including disabled children," said Moustafa, the volunteer. Children started to die. At first, there were between three to six deaths per week, then the toll increased rapidly, nurses said, The peak came Friday, with 14 deaths, followed by 12 on Saturday. The AP obtained 11 death certificates for children at the orphanage, including eight dated Sunday and three dated Saturday. All certificates listed circulatory collapse as a cause of death, but also mentioned other contributing factors such as fever, dehydration, malnutrition, and failure to thrive. Even before the outbreak of fighting, the orphanage lacked proper infrastructure and equipment, said Moustafa. Twenty to 25 children were crammed into each room, many sleeping on the ground. Babies doubled up in pink metal cribs. The orphanage was established in 1961. Though it gets funds from the government, it depends heavily on donations and assistance from local and international charities. The orphanage made headlines in the past, most recently in February 2022 when at least 54 children were reported dead in less than three months. At the time, activists launched an online appeal for help, and the military sent food aid and other assistance. The government-run facility is in a three-story building with a playground in the Daym area in central Khartoum. The area has experienced some of the fiercest fighting, with stray shells and bullets hitting nearby homes and other civilian infrastructure, according to workers and a freelance photographer working with the AP who lives close to the orphanage. The news of the deaths caused public outcry, with activists appealing for help for the children. Nazim Sirag, an activist who heads the local charity Hadhreen, has led efforts to provide volunteers and supplies to the orphanage. Starting Sunday, food, medicine and baby formula reached the facility, he said. The charity also repaired the equipment, electricity lines and a backup generator. Sirag said the situation remains difficult, and orphanage workers called for the children to be moved out of Khartoum. Otherwise, said, Abdalla, "you don't know what will happen tomorrow." YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan Nine Japanese airmen recently took a lap around central Japan in a C-130J Super Hercules, courtesy of U.S. airlifters celebrating Americas connections to Asia and the Pacific Islands. Members of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force were invited along on the annual orientation flight on the final Friday of May, which the U.S. marks as Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This year we decided to open an invite to our JASDF partners and friends here on Yokota, Capt. Sean Crittenden, a Super Hercules pilot with the 36th Airlift Squadron, told Stars and Stripes after the flight. Coordinating all the approvals and paperwork and prior to the flight was worth the effort. U.S. airmen gave the excited Self-Defense Force members a brief tour of the C-130J and posed for a group photo before departing on the four-hour morning flight. Thanks to favorable weather, the C-130J took a scenic route around Mount Fuji, the Izu Peninsula and Chiba prefecture, Crittenden said. We are so blessed with this very special experience, said Warrant Officer Aya Ogura, the senior enlisted adviser for the Air Self-Defense Forces Operations Support Wing at Yokota. U.S. and Japanese airmen participate in many events together on the ground, but this was the first opportunity at Yokota for Japanese service members to take part in a flight celebrating cultural diversity, she said. I believe opportunities like this help the U.S. forces and Japanese Self-Defense Force better understand each other, and I hope we can continue having these opportunities, Ogura said. May was designated Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month in 1992 by President George H.W. Bush. In April, President Joe Biden designated May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate the culture, achievements and contributions of those groups to American life, but also to call attention to persistent racism, harassment and hate crimes against these communities, according to his proclamation. The flight from Yokota included a ramp ride, during which the aircraft flies below 250 knots, or about 290 mph, at low altitude with the cargo ramp open, Crittenden explained. It allowed the air crew and passengers to stand on the open ramp and take photos as they flew over Tokyo Bay and Chiba. Seeing everyone put on the harness and helmet, flying low level and just seeing everyones happy faces as we passed the ships and roads was really cool, he said. Crittenden and Ogura said they hope events like the orientation flight happen more often at Yokota. Being an Asian American, its really nice to have these opportunities to celebrate cultural diversity, Crittenden said. Its also important for us to continue working on our relationship with the JASDF and our allies and partners in Japan because ultimately, the U.S. doesnt fight alone, and our friends and allies are a strategic asset. BEIJING Chinas ruling Communist Party is calling for beefed-up national security measures, highlighting the risks posed by advances in artificial intelligence. A meeting headed by party leader and President Xi Jinping on Tuesday urged dedicated efforts to safeguard political security and improve the security governance of internet data and artificial intelligence," the official Xinhua News Agency said. Xi, who is China's head of state, commander of the military and chair of the partys National Security Commission, called at the meeting for staying keenly aware of the complicated and challenging circumstances facing national security. China needs a "new pattern of development with a new security architecture, Xinhua reported Xi as saying. China already dedicates vast resources to suppressing any perceived political threats to the partys dominance, with spending on the police and security personnel exceeding that devoted to the military. While it relentlessly censors in-person protests and online criticism, citizens have continued to express dissatisfaction with policies, most recently the draconian lockdown measures enacted to combat the spread of COVID-19. China has been cracking down on its tech sector in an effort to reassert party control, but like other countries it is scrambling to find ways to regulate the developing technology. Worries about artificial intelligence systems outsmarting humans and slipping out of control have intensified with the rise of a new generation of highly capable AI chatbots such as ChatGPT. Scientists and tech industry leaders, including high-level executives at Microsoft and Google, issued a new warning Tuesday about the perils that artificial intelligence poses to humankind. Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, the statement said. More than 1,000 researchers and technologists, including Elon Musk, who is currently on a visit to China, had signed a much longer letter earlier this year calling for a six-month pause on AI development. The missive said AI poses profound risks to society and humanity, and some involved in the topic have proposed a United Nations treaty to regulate the technology. BEIJING Chinas industry minister met Tesla Ltd. CEO Elon Musk on Wednesday and the two discussed development of electric and intelligent networked vehicles, the ministry said. The ruling Communist Party is trying to revive investor interest in Chinas slowing economy. Foreign companies are uneasy following raids on consulting firms and given the strained Chinese relations with Washington. Jin Zhuanglong and Musk exchanged views on the development of new energy vehicles and intelligent networked vehicles, said a statement by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. It gave no details. China accounts for half of global electric vehicle sales and is the site of Teslas first factory outside the United States. On Tuesday, Foreign Minister Qin Gang told Musk during a meeting that Chinas EV market has broad prospects for development, according to a ministry statement. Tesla opened the first wholly foreign-owned auto factory in China in 2019 after Beijing eased ownership restrictions to increase competition and speed up industry development. The Chinese statement cited Musk as saying Tesla was willing to expand its business in China and opposes decoupling, a reference to fears the world may split into multiple markets with incompatible products. Tesla didnt respond to requests by email for information about Musks visit to China. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Gordon Birrell, bp's EVP of Production and Operations, is currently in Baku for a three-day visit, coinciding with the prestigious Baku Energy Week, Trend reports. As part of his visit agenda, Gordon has scheduled meetings with Prime Minister Ali Asadov, Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov, and SOCAR CEO Rovshan Najaf. The discussions will revolve around bp's global and regional business priorities, recent developments, and the progress of bp-operated projects in Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkiye (AGT). Additionally, the meetings will explore the ways in which bp can support Azerbaijan's efforts in transitioning towards sustainable energy. During his stay, Birrell will also engage with bp's regional leadership in AGT and visit the construction site at BibiHeybat. This visit will provide an opportunity to witness the preparations for the sail away of the completed topsides unit for the new ACE platform, destined for its permanent location at the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli field in the Caspian Sea. CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa An airman assigned to Kadena Air Base died Tuesday evening after his motorcycle collided with a car in the northern Okinawa city of Nago, according to Japanese police. Senior Airman Logan Riley Staib, 23, was southbound on Route 331 in the Futamisugita tunnel around 7:10 p.m. when he lost control of his red and black Triumph Speed Triple and was struck head-on by a gray Toyota Aqua, an Okinawa prefectural police spokesman said by phone Wednesday. Staib was rushed to a nearby hospital and pronounced dead at 8:42 p.m., the spokesman said. Some government officials in Japan may speak to the media only on condition of anonymity. The Aquas driver, an unidentified 30-year-old man from Ginowan city, was uninjured, the spokesman said. Staib was riding alone when he entered the tunnel about five minutes north of the Marine Corps Camp Schwab, the spokesman said. Staib was in a straightaway when he lost control and laid down the motorcycle. The airman was then struck by the front drivers side of the Aqua, the spokesman said. A witness called the fire department at 7:15 p.m. and said Staib was unconscious, a fire department spokesman said Wednesday by phone. The incident is under investigation; police have not determined if Staib was drinking prior to the crash, the spokesman said. There were 41 motorcycle deaths on Okinawa between 2017 and 2021, the spokesman said. He did not know how many of those were U.S. service members. Army Sgt. Nathaniel Ballor, 25, died Nov. 4 after his motorcycle crashed into a car at an intersection in Chatan. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Torii Station. (Tribine News Service) The European Unions efforts to mend relations between Kosovos Serbian and Albanian communities are unraveling as violence spills across the north of the country. The worst clashes in a decade erupted on Monday when NATO-led peacekeepers were called in to contain clashes between Serbian protesters and the Kosovo police. Thirty soldiers and dozens of Serbs were injured. With the backing of the U.S., the E.U. has been leading talks between the Kosovo government and neighboring Serbia in a bid to resolve disputes that are blocking their path to eventual E.U. membership. While the most substantive issue is Serbias refusal to recognize the independence of Kosovo, which formalized its break from Belgrade in 2008, the enmity between the two communities dates back to the war in Kosovo a generation ago. Russia and China have both backed Serbias position, adding a geopolitical dimension to the dispute, and helping perpetuate the divisions that haunt the countries of the former Yugoslavia. The standoff has condemned the northern part of Kosovo, mainly populated by Serbs, to economic limbo, paralyzed by the frosty relations between Pristina and Belgrade while the ethnic-Albanian majority in the rest of the country has enjoyed relative prosperity. The flareup comes at a critical moment for the western allies who have backed the Kosovo state since its creation. Ukraines fight against the Russian invasion is delicately poised and the U.S. and the E.U. are trying to push back against Kremlin attempts to win support in countries like China, India and Brazil and to portray NATO as the aggressor. That means western diplomats have limited bandwidth to focus on another flareup on the European continent, even as they worry that getting drawn into a new crisis could offer fuel to the Kremlins propaganda operation. There has been too much violence, E.U. foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell said. We already have too much violence in Europe today. We cannot afford another conflict. The immediate trigger for the protests was the municipal election held in April which local Serbs boycotted, with the encouragement of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti pressed ahead with the vote, despite warnings from the U.S. and the E.U. that it would exacerbate tensions. With ethnic Albanians winning office in Serb-dominated towns amid voter turnout of around 3%, those tensions spiraled out of control last week when the newly elected mayors started to arrive at their offices. On Tuesday morning, mayors were jeered by hundreds of local Serb protesters as they were escorted to their offices by Kosovar police. The Kosovo government rejected Serb demands to withdraw the officials from their posts. There was no good option for the Kosovo government here, but trying to install their elected local officials is a better option than giving up on the North, said Aidan Hehir, an international relations professor at the University of Westminster. Schools have been closed since Monday as parents feared for the safety of their children, given the heavy military presence in the area populated by about 50,000 Serbs. Vucic on Friday put his army on high alert and moved some units nearer to the border, fueling concerns in Serbia about just how far the situation in northern Kosovo could deteriorate. Belgrade was forced by NATO to withdraw its forces from Kosovo in 1999. For Kurti, the move is part of his determination to show that his government can govern all of Kosovos territory, not just the areas dominated by ethnic Albanians. The Serbs say hes reneged on a deal to give them more autonomy. Emboldened after he won 50% of votes in the last general election, Kurti has pushed through his vision of Kosovo despite the criticism from the West. Vucic, for his part, is also facing recurring protests at home despite winning nearly 60% of the vote in last years election. Hes already raised the possibility of holding a snap vote to consolidate more power and shake off the threat from any opposition voices, although compared with Kurti, hes faced relatively little public criticism from the E.U. and, in particular, the U.S. The US position has shifted significantly to this naive notion that if they are nice to Vucic, he will become part of the West, Hehir said. The irony is that, while Vucics situation becomes shakier in Belgrade, the West seems to be propping him up. With assistance from Andrea Dudik and Zoe Schneeweiss. 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany Seven people in four German states were arrested Wednesday and are being held on suspicion of providing monetary support to the Islamic State terrorist group. Four arrests took place in North Rhine-Westphalia and one each in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Rheinland-Pfalz and Bremen, the Karlsruhe-based federal prosecutor's office said in a statement Wednesday. The three men and four women are accused of collecting and distributing almost $75,000 for ISIS in Syria. Most of them are German nationals, but some have Kosovar, Moroccan or Turkish citizenship. They were identified as Chahira A., Kujtim B., Alperen K., Cagla K., Siham O., Anna Y. and Harun Y. The full last names were withheld in accordance with German privacy laws. "The funds were primarily used to improve the living conditions of (ISIS) members detained in the northern Syrian camps of Al-Hol and Roj," the federal prosecutor's office said. "In some cases, the funds enabled the detainees to escape or be smuggled out of the camps." All seven of those arrested Wednesday are suspected of supporting the terrorist organization as financial intermediaries by collecting donations and transferring them to ISIS, according to the statement. Authorities also searched at more than 90 locations throughout Germany and also in the Netherlands. Since 2020, two ISIS supporters based in Syria have been recruiting donations through the messaging app Telegram, authorities said following the arrests. "The network included facilitators who collected funds and provided bank accounts or digital donation platforms," according to the statement. A total of $73,000 was transferred to ISIS members in Syria or intermediaries designated by them, prosecutors said. Campaigns on social media platforms with titles such as Your Sister in the Camp have been ongoing for several years in Germany, national broadcasting service ARD reported Wednesday. Their purpose is to provide financial support to ISIS women living with their children in Syria. There have been numerous reports of women, children and teenagers who still consider themselves part of ISIS being smuggled out of the camp for substantial sums of money. Of the dozens of ISIS women who have returned to Germany in recent years, many have been detained and brought to trial. Some returned with their children from Syria through repatriation efforts, while others were deported or returned on their own, ARD reported. Participating in or supporting ISIS activities has been illegal in Germany since 2014. This ban includes involvement in social media and demonstrations in support of ISIS, as well fundraising and recruiting fighters for the terrorist group. ZVECAN, Kosovo International efforts to defuse a crisis in Kosovo intensified Wednesday as ethnic Serbs held more protests in a northern town where recent clashes with NATO-led peacekeepers sparked fears of renewed conflict in the troubled region. Hundreds of Serbs repeated at a rally their demand for the withdrawal from northern Kosovo of the special police and ethnic Albanian officials who were elected to mayors offices in votes overwhelmingly boycotted by Serbs. The crowd then spread a huge Serbian flag outside the city hall in the town of Zvecan. The rising tensions have fueled concern about another war like the 1998-99 fighting in Kosovo that claimed more than 10,000 lives, left more than 1 million people homeless and resulted in a NATO peacekeeping mission that has lasted nearly a quarter of a century. Working to avert any escalation, European Union officials met with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti on the sidelines of a conference in Bratislava, Slovakia. The leaders of France and Germany announced plans to meet top Serbia and Kosovo officials on Thursday at a summit in Moldova. The current situation is dangerous and unsustainable, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. We need urgent de-escalation. Speaking in Slovakia, Kurti flatly rejected Serb demands but left the door open for fresh local elections. As long as there is a violent mob outside the municipal buildings, we must have our special units, he said. If there would have been peaceful protests asking for early election, that would attract my attention, and perhaps I would consider that request. Kurti also suggested that Russia may have a hand in the latest flare-up, pointing to protesters who do graffiti with letter Z and show admiration for despotic Russian President Vladimir Putin and for the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Russia is a close Serbian ally, although Belgrade populist leaders claim to be seeking European Union membership. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday that Moscow is monitoring the situation and supporting all legitimate rights and interests of Kosovo Serbs. Wednesdays protest in Zvecan, 45 kilometers (28 miles) north of the capital, Pristina, ended peacefully. On Monday, ethnic Serbs tried to storm municipal offices and fought with both Kosovo police and the peacekeepers, leaving 30 NATO soldiers and 50 rioters injured. A former province of Serbia, Kosovos 2008 declaration of independence is recognized by Washington and most EU nations but not by Belgrade, Russia or China. Serbs are a minority in Kosovo, but they constitute a majority in parts of the countrys north bordering Serbia. Many reject the Albanian-majority territorys claim of independence. The United States and the European Union recently stepped up efforts to solve the dispute. NATO said it will send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests after the clashes on Monday. The NATO-led peacekeeping mission known as KFOR currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. A German government spokesperson said Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron plan to meet Thursday with the leaders of Serbia and Kosovo. Spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit told reporters in Berlin that the meeting will take place on the sidelines of the European Political Community meeting in Chisinau, Moldova. The confrontation first unfolded last week after ethnic Albanian officials entered municipal buildings to take office with an escort of Kosovo police. When Serbs tried to block the officials, Kosovo police fired tear gas to disperse them. In Zvecan on Monday, angry Serbs again clashed first with the police and later with NATO-led troops who tried to secure the area. Serbia put the countrys military on its highest state of alert and sent more troops to the border with Kosovo. Western officials have sharply criticized both Kosovo authorities for pushing to install the newly elected mayors and Serbs because of the violence. The Kosovo governments decision to force access to municipal buildings sharply and unnecessarily escalated tensions, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said. He urged Kosovo to use alternate locations for the new mayors and withdraw police from the vicinity of the municipal buildings. Serbia, he said, should lower its armys alert level and make sure KFOR troops are not attacked. French President Macron also criticized Kosovo for organizing the municipal election in the countrys north. He said Kosovo disrespected an EU-backed plan to normalize ties between former war foes. Very clearly, the Kosovar authorities are responsible for the current situation and for failing to respect an agreement that was important and that was sealed just a few weeks ago, he said. Serbias defense minister on Wednesday told state broadcaster RTS that the security situation is highly risky because of one-sided, illegal, illegitimate decisions by the administration in Pristina. He referred to the occupation of the north of Kosovo. Serbian officials have repeatedly warned that Serbia would not stand idle if Serbs in Kosovo come under attack. Meanwhile in Pristina, the U.S. ambassador to Kosovo, Jeff Hovenier, said Kosovos participation in the Defender Europe 23 military drills has been canceled. The exercises involve some 2,800 U.S. troops and 7,000 soldiers from other nations, including Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece and Turkey. The 1998-1999 war in Kosovo erupted when ethnic Albanian separatists launched a rebellion against Serbia, which responded with a brutal crackdown. The war ended after NATO bombing forced Serbia to pull out of the territory. The Balkan region is still reckoning with the aftermath of a series of bloody conflicts in the 1990s during the violent breakup of the former country of Yugoslavia. On Wednesday, United Nations judges imposed increased sentences for two allies of former Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic who were convicted of an attempt to drive non-Serbs out of towns in Croatia and Bosnia during the wars in the 1990s. Milosevic also led Serbia during its 1998-1999 war in Kosovo. AP reporters Llazar Semini, Jovana Gec and Dusan Stojanovic contributed to this report. For decades, Lefortovo prison has been a symbol of oppression and control in Russia, especially for those who dare to challenge power. It is within these walls that American journalist Evan Gershkovich, arrested in March, remains detained, awaiting trial on espionage charges which he, the White House and Gershkovich's employer, the Wall Street Journal, strongly deny. Lefortovo serves as a pretrial detention center. Still, prisoners can spend years there. Paul Whelan, a former U.S. Marine, was at the prison for two years before being convicted on charges of espionage and is now serving 16-year sentence at a penal colony. Based on descriptions from inmates, lawyers and prison monitors, including letters and sketches, as well as documentaries and photos of Lefortovo, The Post built a portrait of what life is like inside the prison. Ivan Safronov, a Russian journalist serving a 22-year sentence in Krasnodar for treason, spent over two years in Lefortovo, from 2020 to 2022. In a letter to The Post about his time there, he wrote, "the purpose is to isolate a person, to 'freeze' them in order to get confessions from them." Lefortovo was built in the late 1800s, during Tsarist rule, and it lies on the eastern edge of the capital. The yellow-walled, four-story building was built in the shape of the letter K. Former inmates describe a facility designed to instill fear, isolation and despair. In the corridors outside the cells, all sound is muted by old, worn carpets. "They are not for beauty or for pleasing the eyes of prisoners but so that steps do not break the utter crypt-like silence, one that is oppressive and makes your ears ring," wrote Valentin Moiseyev, a Russian diplomat who was accused of espionage in 1998 and spent 3 1/2 years in Lefortovo, in his memoir "How I Was a 'South Korean Spy." During Soviet rule, a KGB wing was added to the compound and was later occupied by its successor agency, the Federal Security Service (FSB). In the early 2000s, Lefortovo was reassigned from the FSB to the Ministry of Justice because of the Council of Europe requirement that prohibits investigative bodies from operating prisons. But in reality, only a door separates the FSB from the prison, according to a state television documentary about the facility. Safronov recalled that detainees are allowed daily walks on Lefortovo's roof, confined to restricted exercise yards. Russia's penitentiary service regulations say the walks last an hour. A central radio system is often turned on to blast music across the compound another way to ensure the prisoners can't hear each other, a guard told the documentarian. After an initial 10-day quarantine, prisoners are transferred to the cells where they are either kept alone or joined by up to two cellmates. Each nearly identical cell, according to archival plans obtained by Memorial, a Russian human rights group, and confirmed by sketches by Alexei Melnikov, a member of Moscow's Public Monitoring Commission an organization that documents the treatment of prisoners, is approximately eight square meters, no larger than 85 square feet. A small, barred window with limited natural light can be opened using a special lever, allowing prisoners to see part of the sky. The toilet offers little privacy. A tiled half-wall separates it from the nearest bed in the cramped cell. There is also a sink, a refrigerator and at least one wall cabinet for storing food purchased from the prison store or delivered by family members. A table and chair are bolted to the floor. And there is a TV, which only broadcasts state channels. Moiseyev wrote in his memoir that during his time in Lefortovo, an officer looked into the peephole every two or three minutes. Detainees leave their cells only for walks, interrogations, medical checkups or court hearings. They are allowed to take showers once a week, Safronov told The Post. Former inmates and lawyers who visited Lefortovo describe it as a Soviet time capsule, with shabby floors, thick oil paint on the walls, portraits of Felix Dzerzhinsky, who created the Soviet secret police apparatus, and the smell of dust and old papers. Lefortovo served as one of the main sites used by the secret police during Joseph Stalin's Great Purge in the 1930s. It became a place of violent interrogations, torture and executions. Lawyers, prison monitors and recent inmates interviewed by The Post said they had only read of physical abuse in Soviet-era accounts about Lefortovo, and have not experienced it themselves. It's the psychological pressure that defines the torment of prisoners there. "In Lefortovo, its well-established regime and the behavior of the staff suppresses you; from the very first minute, they make it clear that you are nothing, that you are alone here and completely at the mercy of this prison, and that the way out of it is possible only through complete submission to the system that it serves," Moiseyev wrote. In his memoir, Russian dissident and writer Eduard Limonov describes how detainees are escorted from their cell to one of the interrogation rooms to the sound of the ominous, metallic clicks. Prison guards snap their fingers or use special metal clickers to warn everyone around to clear the path. The prisoner must not be allowed to see another prisoner in convoy on their way through, Limonov wrote. "Though they are not beaten, prisoners find themselves in harsh conditions where the possibility of any communication between cells is ruled out," Melnikov said. Safronov wrote in his letter to The Post that it took him six months to adjust to life inside Lefortovo. "The rules of entry into this prison are also the toughest out of all Moscow detention facilities," said Vadim Prokhorov, a prominent Russian lawyer who frequently visited his clients there, describing how he is thoroughly checked by prison authorities coming in and out of Lefortovo. Prokhorov explained that there are just about six rooms in the compound allocated for meetings with prisoners, hardly enough for the 200-300 people held there on average, most of whom are part of high-profile cases and need frequent communication with their legal teams. "I'm sure this is done on purpose," the lawyer said. "Scarcity and deficit are always beneficial to the officials within a totalitarian system." According to Prokhorov, in 2016 lawyers created a draw numbers in a bag that offer a certain time slot that would guarantee them access to their client at least once every other week. While prisoners are restricted from interacting with anyone but their cellmate, lawyers and the prison guards, they are able to send and receive letters. These letters, as in any penitentiary institution in the world, are read and censored. Technically, phone calls are allowed but prisoners must file a petition, and authorities then review and ultimately have the right to veto requests. "Since I did not admit guilt, I got only one phone call during my two years in Lefortovo," Safronov wrote. Lefortovo is reported to have a good library. Books are routinely checked to ensure that there are no notes or messages in the margins. Gershkovich's lawyers said he is keeping himself busy while at Lefortovo. Following a court appearance in mid-April, attorney Tatyana Nozhkina said Gershkovich remains upbeat and in good health. He spends his time watching culinary programs on TV, exercising and reading Russian classics, including Leo Tolstoy's "War and Peace." The U.S. and its NATO allies havent acted on lessons learned from the war in Ukraine and arent prepared enough to defend Europe from a Russian attack, the Armys former top commander on the Continent told an audience this week at a major security forum. Transporting troops swiftly to the front lines, producing enough ammunition and communicating with allied armies remain challenges for NATO in defending against Russia, retired Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, former commander of U.S. Army Europe, said Tuesday at the Globsec conference in Bratislava, Slovakia. When I think of where we were when I was a commander, its so much better now, Hodges said. But we are nowhere near where we have to be if were serious about defeating a Russian attack. And were not ready. Hodges took the reins of U.S. Army Europe in late 2014 in the wake of Russias first invasion of Ukraine, and he served in that role until 2017. Since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, NATO has been slow to learn the lessons from that war, partly because of persistent bureaucratic obstacles, Hodges said. We still cannot move where we have to move fast enough to convey to the Russians that we can move as fast or faster than them, he said. Hodges estimated that Germanys rail cars can move only one-and-a-half brigades and equipment through Europe at a time, far short of the 10 or 12 brigades that he thinks would need to be moved simultaneously. Countries supplying Ukraine have complained about persistent ammunition shortages for more than a year, but not much has changed as far as government investments, Hodges said. A lot of hand wringing about we need more ammunition, but Im not seeing gigantic piles of money going into the actual production of ammunition, Hodges said. Additionally, NATO battlegroups do not have enough secure communication channels among allied militaries, he said. Russian troops have shown the ability to track signals sent by troops on the battlefield. Anybody out there on a phone or a radio thats not secure, theyre going to get killed in three or four minutes, Hodges said. He was part of a panel at the conference that included defense officials from Slovakia and Slovenia. His remarks addressed the future of defending countries on NATOs eastern flank. Held annually since 2005, the Globsec forum has become one of the preeminent global strategic conferences, according to its website. It has seen prominent European politicians unveil their defense policies in years past. Speaking Wednesday at the conference, French President Emmanuel Macron called on Europe to do more to support its own arms production. (Tribune News Service) The U.S. and European allies urged caution on whether Ukraine should have the right to strike inside Russia, amid concerns that a potential escalation could drag them into a broader war. Countries supporting Ukraine are taking varying stances on how it should beat back Moscows invasion, as Russian territory is increasingly targeted. The U.S. has publicly leaned against the strategy of attacks within Russia. UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly told reporters in Estonia this week that Ukraine has the right to project force beyond its borders to undermine Russias ability to project force into Ukraine itself. Cleverly, who said he wasnt commenting on Tuesdays drone strikes on Moscow, added that legitimate military targets beyond its own border are part of Ukraines self-defense. But other allies are more cautious. While France backs Ukraines right to defend itself, French military support should not be used to attack Russia, a French official said. The official added that if Ukraine wants to do more with its own forces, its not Frances place to dictate to Kyiv how to conduct this war. Another European diplomat said that allies tend not to discuss the question because it is divisive. Russia has faced minor attacks on its own territory for months, including this week when Russia said five drones aimed at Moscow were shot down and three intercepted by electronic jamming. The citys mayor said several residential buildings were damaged in the attack. Nobody was hurt. Operational choices Russian regions near Ukraine have come under fire repeatedly in recent weeks, with officials ordering some residents in the Belgorod region to evacuate their homes. A drone attack caused a fire at the Afipsky oil refinery in southern Russias Krasnodar region, the local governor said on his Telegram channel Wednesday, adding that it was later extinguished. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg was reluctant to be drawn on the use of western weapons to attack Russia. The operational choices about how they use the weapons must be made by Ukrainians themselves, Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo on Tuesday, ahead of a two-day meeting of the blocs foreign ministers. There are difficult choices. John Kirby, spokesman for the U.S. National Security Council, told CNN on Wednesday that once Washington provided systems to the Ukrainians, they get to decide what to do with the arms. Now, they have given us assurances that they wont use our equipment to strike inside Russia. But once it goes to them, it belongs to them, Kirby said. We dont want our systems, we dont want to encourage or enable, attacks inside Russia, Kirby added. Zelenskyys assurances The U.S. this month dropped its reluctance to allow allies to train Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets. President Joe Biden has said he received assurances from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Kyiv wouldnt use the aircraft to move into Russian territory. Latvia first suggested last year that Ukraine should be free to strike military sites inside Russia as it fends off attacks on its critical infrastructure. We should allow Ukrainians to use weapons to target missile sites or air fields from where those operations are being launched, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics said at the time. The UK earlier this month agreed to provide Ukraine with long-range Storm Shadow cruise missiles to help it counter Russian offensives. The weapons, which were jointly developed by the UK and France, have a firing range in excess of 155 miles and are the longest-range missiles yet provided to Ukraine by western allies. UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said that the Storm Shadows, which are usually launched from the air, would be used to push back Russian troops within Ukrainian sovereign territory. The UK was given assurances that they would not be used against targets inside Russia, according to a person familiar with the matter. By contrast, U.S. officials have held back on sending the Army Tactical Missile System, known as ATACMS, due to its ability to strike targets inside Russian territory. With assistance from Iain Marlow, Sylvia Westall, Alex Morales and Jennifer Jacobs. 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A key security partner in the Middle East announced Wednesday that it had pulled out of an American-led maritime alliance earlier this spring, but the U.S. Navy has a different interpretation. The United Arab Emirates said it withdrew its participation from Combined Maritime Task Forces two months ago after an evaluation of effective security cooperation with all partners. The UAEs Foreign Affairs Ministry statement was posted on the website of the Emirates News Agency, a state news service. U.S. 5th Fleet, though, said Wednesday that the UAE is still a partner in the program, which is led by a Navy vice admiral and has task forces that focus on countering piracy, training and patrolling the waterways of the Middle East. The Combined Maritime Task Forces has 38 member countries, including the UAE, listed on the Navys fact sheet online. Bottom line, UAE is currently a CMF partner. That hasnt changed, said Cmdr. Tim Hawkins, a spokesman for the Bahrain-based command. Regarding their level of participation as a partner, we leave it to individual partners to speak to that, Hawkins said, adding that countries move their personnel in and out of the Combined Maritime Forces as part of regular rotations. The UAEs announcement followed a Tuesday report in The Wall Street Journal that officials in the Persian Gulf country were frustrated with the United States inability to prevent the recent seizure of two commercial oil tankers. Iran seized ships in the Strait of Hormuz on April 27 and May 3, U.S. officials said at the time. The U.S. subsequently announced an increase in patrols in the strait. A U.S. official in the region who was not authorized to speak publicly pointed out that the UAEs stated time frame for withdrawal is before the two tankers were seized. The UAE Foreign Affairs Ministry did not immediately respond Wednesday to a request for clarification. WASHINGTON President Biden is expected to nominate the assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric Smith, to lead the service as commandant, selecting a senior officer who has led troops in combat and served more recently in a key role as the service attempts to transform itself after two decades of counterinsurgency wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Smith, 58, has served as the No. 2 officer in the Marine Corps since October 2021. If confirmed, he will replace Gen. David H. Berger, who has been commandant since July 2019 and sought to reorient the service to an island-hopping force that can better counter China in the Pacific. Smiths nomination could be disclosed by the White House any day, two officials familiar with the issue said, speaking on the condition of anonymity ahead of an official announcement. Smiths selection comes amid a broader remaking of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, as Berger and a couple of other officers retire. Among the other changes expected, Gen. Randy George has been nominated to replace Gen. James McConville as chief of staff of the Army, and Gen. Charles CQ Brown Jr., the current chief of staff of the Air Force, has been tapped to replace Army Gen. Mark A. Milley as Joint Chiefs chairman. No nomination has been announced to replace Brown atop the Air Force. Smith, an infantry officer, previously served as the deputy commandant for combat development and integration, a role in which he helped develop Bergers vision for the future service, known as Force Design 2030. The plan has proved controversial with some Marines for decisions that include cutting the services tanks and reducing howitzer artillery in favor of greater investments in drones and long-range missiles. As assistant commandant, Smith has defended the plan, saying that war games and exercises will sharpen the services concepts for the future. Were going to keep going as fast as we can go, Smith said last year, speaking at a conference hosted by Defense News. For those who say, You shouldnt be focused on China, China is the pacing threat . . . but that doesnt mean youre not capable of dealing with Russia, North Korea or Iran. Its that you always go against the fastest runner, and then you hope that the next runner is a little bit slower. The plan has garnered significant opposition, with some retired generals even calling it a misguided effort that will damage national security. Other influential Marine Corps veterans have defended the concept, saying the service must evolve to meet the times. Smiths earlier roles include a stint from late 2015 to through early 2017 as the senior military assistant to then-Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter, where he advised the Pentagon chief and worked with senior civilian officials regularly. In Afghanistan, he served as the commander of a regiment of Marines in 2011, overseeing several thousand personnel as they fanned out across Helmand province, a Taliban hotbed. Smith also deployed twice to Iraq, including a tour in 2005 as the commanding officer of 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, a force of about 1,000 personnel that was based in the city of Ramadi. Smith was born in Kansas City, Mo., and grew up in Plano, Texas. He attended Texas A&M University and became an officer in 1987. WASHINGTON (Tribune News Service) Speaker Kevin McCarthy threatened Tuesday to seek to hold the head of the FBI in contempt of Congress if the agency didnt comply with a congressional subpoena issued after lawmakers received whistleblower disclosures related to President Joe Biden. The comments came hours before the head of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee announced that the panel will take steps to hold FBI Director Christopher Wray in contempt of Congress for not complying with a congressional subpoena. Republicans contend that an unclassified form describes an alleged scheme involving then-Vice President Biden and a foreign national relating to the exchange of money for policy decisions, and the House oversight committee issued a subpoena for specific documents. Republicans said they received highly credible unclassified whistleblower disclosures, but the lawmakers provided no details of the scheme nor evidence of its accuracy in a letter to the FBI and the Justice Department as the subpoena was rolled out. The White House has said congressional Republicans have been making unproven political attacks against Biden for years. McCarthy, during a Fox News appearance, said he spoke with Wray and told him the document must be provided, a move that comes after Republicans accused the agency of delaying. If he misses the deadline today, I am prepared to move contempt charges in Congress against him, McCarthy said in the interview. We have jurisdiction over this. He can send us that document. We have the right to look at that. The California Republican said Wray has not denied that the document exists and said he told the director that certain parts of it could be redacted. But we have a right to see it. He does not have the right to choose what he can and cannot show us, McCarthy said. We oversee the FBI. And if he thinks differently, he will soon see a contempt charge in Congress against the director. McCarthy added that there are enough problems in the FBI. The agency has been the subject of fierce criticism from Republicans, particularly after the FBI searched former President Donald Trumps property in Florida last year. House Oversight Chairman James R. Comer, R-Ky., subpoenaed Wray earlier this month and last week warned of contempt of Congress proceedings if Wray failed to produce the record. On Tuesday, after McCarthys statement, Comer issued a statement that the FBI informed the House Oversight panel that it would not provide the subpoenaed documents. The FBIs decision to stiff-arm Congress and hide this information from the American people is obstructionist and unacceptable, Comer said. While I have a call scheduled with FBI Director Wray tomorrow to discuss his response further, the Committee has been clear in its intent to protect Congressional oversight authorities. In a letter earlier this month, Comer and Republican Sen. Charles E. Grassley of Iowa said it appears the Justice Department and the FBI have enough information to find out the truthfulness of the information in the document. Ian Sams, White House spokesman for oversight and investigations, said on Twitter earlier this month that Republicans in Congress prefer trafficking in innuendo. For going on 5 years now, Republicans in Congress have been lobbing unfounded politically-motivated attacks against (the president) without offering evidence for their claims. Or evidence of decisions influenced by anything other than U.S. interests, he tweeted. ___ 2023 CQ-Roll Call, Inc., All Rights Reserved. Visit cqrollcall.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Over the course of the last 30 years, Azerbaijan and Israel have forged a strong and friendly interstate relationship that has evolved into a strategic alliance. This alliance is built upon a shared understanding and cooperation on various international issues. The ties between the two countries have extended beyond defense to encompass sectors such as energy, establishing a robust and multifaceted partnership. The highly significant visit of Israel's President Isaac Herzog to Azerbaijan marks a historic milestone. This momentous occasion is set to significantly accelerate the development of bilateral relations across various spheres, underscoring its profound importance. In a landmark move, Baku made a historic announcement in November 2022 to establish an Azerbaijani Embassy in Tel Aviv. This decision, which signifies the depth of relations between the two nations, is a testament to the concerted efforts in building robust diplomatic ties. Since then, the relationship between the two countries has flourished, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and engagement. Economic indicators reveal a significant surge in bilateral trade turnover, reaching as high as $1.7 billion, which is a considerable amount. In the forthcoming years, both nations will focus on enhancing the diversification of trade turnover. Through the implementation of collaborative projects, the trade balance will become more equitable, reducing its reliance solely on the energy sector. However, it is worth noting that Azerbaijan has remained a dependable supplier of crude to Israel for many years, with a 40-percent share of Israel's total oil imports. During the talks, both parties also discussed the matter of broadening collaboration in the energy sector. There are significant prospects for investment projects, including the establishment of energy interconnectors and potential cooperative ventures in other countries. Moreover, according to the most recent data, around 10-15 Israeli companies have already submitted applications through the Israeli Embassy in Azerbaijan to participate in projects in Karabakh. However, the actual number of companies interested in contributing to the restoration of Azerbaijan's liberated lands is even greater. In addition to green energy, Israel has a wealth of expertise to offer in various sectors including water management, agriculture, health, innovation, and smart cities. In addition to the thriving economic cooperation, the bond between the peoples of Azerbaijan and Israel serves as a remarkable model for the entire world, characterized by fruitful, sincere, open, and amicable relations rooted in mutual respect and support. Cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Israel continue to flourish. A notable example is the focus on tourism sector development discussed during the meeting between President Ilham Aliyev and President Isaac Herzog. As a result of these talks, it was agreed to promptly increase the number of flights between the two countries, not only during the summer season but throughout the year. This is particularly important in terms of shedding light on the rich history and vibrant life of Azerbaijan's centuries-old Jewish community, President Ilham Aliyev said, while making joint press statement with President Isaac Herzog. This is a big asset for our country. Representatives of Jewish community, citizens of Azerbaijan, people who contributed and contribute a lot to the modern development of our country. They fought shoulder-to-shoulder with us, with all the other representatives of ethnic groups in Azerbaijan for our independence, and for our territorial integrity. And today this factor is important not only for successful development of Azerbaijan, intercultural peace and friendship but also for our bilateral relations. I know that Azerbaijani representatives who live in Israel also play an important role in building bridges between our countries. We have diaspora organizations of Azerbaijanis all over the world. But only in one country, in Israel, they are predominantly consist of people of Jewish origin. And this is really a demonstration that there is no distinction, no division between us, President Ilham Aliyev said. Another area that both the Presidents highlighted was the issue of security, and cybersecurity in particular. The cooperation in cybersecurity between Azerbaijan and Israel is a relatively recent endeavor. However, it has been exceptionally dynamic recently. Today, cybersecurity is a vital component of national security for every nation. Undoubtedly, the extensive expertise of Israeli firms in this domain will prove invaluable to Azerbaijan, encompassing the training of young professionals and education. These elements will serve as fundamental factors in accomplishing objectives and safeguarding the country against various threats. The enduring partnership in the defense industry between Azerbaijan and Israel has already demonstrated its effectiveness. Azerbaijan has had access to advanced Israeli equipment in this field for numerous years, enabling us to enhance defense capabilities and safeguard statehood, values, national interests, and territorial integrity. This longstanding cooperation has played a crucial role in modernizing Azerbaijani defense capabilities. As President Isaac Herzog said in its press statement yesterday, Azerbaijan is making a huge impact in the world and in the region. And, indeed, Azerbaijan has emerged as a prominent player in global issues such as transport connectivity and energy security. In these critical areas, Israel's expertise and advanced technology play a vital role. By enhancing bilateral relations, Azerbaijan and Israel can unlock fresh opportunities that will benefit not only their own nations but also the broader region, paving the way for new horizons of cooperation. WASHINGTON A U.S. military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be announced this week will total up to $300 million and will include additional munitions for drones, U.S. officials said Tuesday. The drone ammunition comes after new attacks by unmanned aircraft targeted Moscow. There has been no suggestion that U.S.-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow, and U.S. officials have repeatedly said that Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. The Kremlin blamed Kyiv for Tuesday's attack, but Ukrainian officials had no direct comment. But the new aid package comes at a tense moment in the war. The latest drone attack on Moscow follows Russia's seizure of the eastern Ukrainian city Bakhmut after a nine-month battle that killed tens of thousands of people. Ukraine is also showing signs that its long-awaited spring counteroffensive may already be underway. The Russian Defense Ministry said five drones were shot down in Moscow and the systems of three others were jammed, causing them to veer off course. President Vladimir Putin called it a "terrorist" act by Kyiv. A U.S. defense official said the drone strikes would not affect the weapons aid packages the U.S. is providing Ukraine, to include drone ammunition. The official said the U.S. has committed to supporting Ukraine in its effort to defend the country and Ukraine had committed to not using the systems inside Russia, so the aid would likely continue unchanged. All of the U.S. officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because the latest aid package has not yet been publicly announced. U.S. officials did not provide details on the drone munitions in the new aid package or specify which unmanned aircraft would use them. The Defense Department has given Ukraine a variety of unmanned aircraft over the last year, for both surveillance and attacks, including at least two versions of the Switchblade, a so-called kamikaze drone that can loiter in the air and then explode into a target. Other more sophisticated drones can drop munitions, but the U.S. has been reluctant to publicly share details about those. Also included in the newest package will be munitions for Patriot missile batteries and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), Stinger missiles for the Avenger system, mine-clearing equipment, anti-armor rounds, unguided Zuni aircraft rockets, night vision goggles, and about 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition, said the U.S. officials. The aid greatly resembles other recent U.S. packages, which have focused on providing Ukraine more ammunition for the weapons systems it has and helping it prepare for a counteroffensive to push back against Russian gains over the past year. Ukrainian officials have not formally announced the launch of their much-anticipated counteroffensive, although some say it has already begun and the pace of attacks suggests that it's underway. Including the latest aid, the U.S. has committed more than $37.6 billion in weapons and other equipment to Ukraine since Russia attacked on Feb. 24, 2022. This latest package will be done under presidential drawdown authority, which allows the Pentagon to take weapons from its own stocks and quickly ship them to Ukraine, officials said. Officials said the U.S. is expected to announce the aid as soon as Wednesday. Tuesday's strikes on Moscow were the second drone strikes on the city since May 3, when Russian officials said two drones targeted the Kremlin in what they portrayed as an attempt on Putin's life. Ukraine denied it was behind that attack. U.S. intelligence officials were still trying to ascertain if Ukraine had any involvement in or prior knowledge of Tuesday's drone attack in Moscow, according to a U.S. official familiar with the matter who was not authorized to comment and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Last week, the Russian border region of Belgorod was the target of one of the most serious cross-border raids since the war began, with two far-right pro-Ukrainian paramilitary groups claiming responsibility. The U.S. conveyed after that incident that American-made weaponry must not be used inside Russia, according to a U.S. official familiar with the sensitive communications. The message was "very clearly understood," according to the official. Officials in the southern Russian city of Krasnodar, near annexed Crimea, said two drones struck there on Friday, damaging residential buildings. Other drones have reportedly flown deep into Russia multiple times. Ukrainian military analysts, though unable to confirm Kyiv had launched the drones against Moscow, said the attack may have involved UJ-22 drones, which are produced in Ukraine and have a maximum range of about 620 miles. U.S. officials struck a delicate balance in responding to the drone strikes, reiterating support for Ukraine while stressing that the U.S. opposes Ukrainians using American weapons in Russia. They noted that Russia's bombardment of Kyiv on Tuesday was the 17th round of attacks this month, "many of which have devastated civilian areas." Lee reported from Oslo. Associated Press writers Aamer Madhani and Tara Copp contributed to this report. NEW YORK Ten months before Donald Trump is scheduled to stand trial in his historic New York City criminal case, Manhattan prosecutors are turning the former president's words against him in a tug of war over precisely where he will be tried. Trump's lawyers have spent weeks angling to have the hush money case moved to federal court. The Manhattan district attorney's office responded Tuesday that the case should remain in the state court where it originated, citing old Trump tweets that they say undermine his lawyers' jurisdictional challenge. Trump, a Republican, pleaded not guilty in state court last month to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to money paid to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, for orchestrating hush money payments during the 2016 campaign to bury allegations of extramarital sexual encounters. Prosecutors allege that Trump's company, the Trump Organization, falsely logged the Cohen payments as being for a legal retainer that didn't exist. Trump, the leading contender for next year's Republican presidential nomination, is slated to go on trial in state court March 25, 2024, in the heat of the primaries. Trump's lawyers argue he can't be tried in state court because some of the alleged conduct occurred in 2017 while he was president, including checks he purportedly wrote while sitting in the Oval Office. They argue the case belongs in federal court because it "involves important federal questions" including alleged violations of federal election law. The DA's office, in its response, pointed to tweets from 2018 in which Trump said he was paying Cohen a monthly retainer and that Cohen was being reimbursed for a $130,000 "private agreement" the lawyer made with porn actor Stormy Daniels to keep her from speaking about an alleged affair. Trump tweeted that the payments had "nothing to do" with his campaign. Prosecutors also cited a statement in which Rudy Giuliani, Trump's personal lawyer at the time, said the Daniels payment "was made to resolve a personal and false allegation in order to protect" Trump's family. Ultimately it will be Manhattan federal judge Alvin Hellerstein who decides whether to seize control of the case or keep it in state court. likely after the two sides duke it out at a hearing on the issue June 27. Such transfer requests are rarely granted, although Trump's is unprecedented because he's the first ex-president charged with a crime. In the meantime, the case will continue in state court. Matthew Colangelo, a senior counsel to Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg, urged Hellerstein to keep the case as is, arguing in court papers Tuesday that Trump's lawyers had failed to meet a high legal bar. Trump's lawyers argue that he must be tried in federal court because, as commander-in-chief, he was a "federal officer." Colangelo contended that Trump's legal team hasn't satisfied any of three grounds for moving the case under that standard and questioned whether it would even apply to Trump. Over the years, he wrote, courts have debated whether the legal definition of "federal officer" applies to a president or only to other members of the government. Trump's charges pertained to efforts "to conceal criminal conduct that largely occurred before his inauguration," Colangelo wrote. That includes alleged violations of New York laws regulating record-keeping at private businesses laws that have no federal equivalent, he added. Trump's "alleged criminal conduct had no connection to his official duties and responsibilities" but instead "arose from his unofficial actions relating to his private businesses and pre-election conduct," Colangelo wrote in a 40-page filing. The Trump legal team's inability to connect his conduct to his official duties negates any potential defense he might invoke, such as presidential immunity, Colangelo wrote. In addition to Trump and Giuliani's public statements, prosecutors on Tuesday cited secret grand jury material including unspecified exhibits, a court order and a document obtained by a grand jury subpoena. That evidence was filed under seal. Manhattan's state and federal courthouses are just a block apart, but where Trump's trial is held could impact how it plays out. The Manhattan DA's office, which conducts most of its business in state court, would still prosecute either way, but Trump could gain an advantage in federal court with a broader and more politically diverse jury pool drawing from the New York City suburbs in addition to heavily Democratic Manhattan. Manhattan federal prosecutors previously investigated and charged only Cohen, who pleaded guilty to violating federal campaign finance law in connection with the hush money payments and is a key witness in the state case against Trump. Trump sued Cohen last month, accusing him of "vast reputational harm" for talking publicly about the payments. Cohen's lawyer, Lanny Davis, accused Trump of "using and abusing the judicial system as a form of harassment and intimidation" and said the lawsuit wouldn't deter Cohen's cooperation with prosecutors. (Tribune News Service) The Maryland Attorney Generals Office filed twin lawsuits Tuesday against several manufacturers that used PFAS, also known as forever chemicals, in firefighting foam and a host of other consumer products. Filed in Baltimore City Circuit Court, the lawsuits allege that companies such as 3M and E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company were aware of the dangers of PFAS chemicals but continued to sell them to consumers for decades. In the lawsuits, the Maryland Attorney Generals Office argues the companies should be held liable for the cost of investigating and remediating PFAS contamination in the state, including in groundwater, bodies of water and soil. One of the suits focuses specifically on firefighting foams containing PFAS that were sold in Maryland, while the second focuses on other products, from nonstick cookware to upholstery. Access to safe drinking water, a clean environment, and the precious natural resources of Maryland will not be jeopardized by those who put profits above public health and safety, Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown said in a statement. These corporations must pay to clean up the damage and be held accountable for the harms they have caused. The suits, filed on behalf of the Maryland Department of the Environment, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Department of Health, list several claims against the companies including defective design, negligence, failure to warn, public nuisance and trespassing. In filing its lawsuits against PFAS manufacturers, Maryland joins a host of plaintiffs that have sued the companies over the years. Last year, the City of Baltimore sued several such companies in U.S. District Court. PFAS, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a class of thousands of manmade chemicals that were sold for their heat-resistant and water-resistant qualities, starting in the 1940s. But because of incredibly strong chemical bonds, PFAS do not easily degrade in the environment, meaning they accumulate not only in water and soil, but in the bodies of humans and animals. Last year, the federal Environmental Protection Agency issued a health advisory for certain types of PFAS in drinking water, even at low levels: .004 parts per trillion for PFOA and .02 parts per trillion for PFOS. These chemicals increase the risk for health conditions such as kidney and testicular cancer, high cholesterol and pre-eclampsia in pregnant women. In its lawsuits, Maryland alleges that 3M and E.I. du Pont were aware of the chemicals toxicity to humans and the danger they posed to the environment as early as the 1950s. Internally, the corporations learned more and more about the threat, but they failed to disclose the information to the public, instead proclaiming the safety of their products. In a statement, 3M spokesperson Grant Thompson said the company acted responsibly in connection with products containing PFAS including AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam) and will vigorously defend its record of environmental stewardship. 3M was the primary manufacturer of PFAS in the United States from the 1940s to early 2000s, according to the suit. E.I. du Pont started purchasing PFOA (a type of PFAS) from 3M in the early 1950s to manufacture products, including those marketed as Teflon. When 3M stopped producing PFOA in the early 2000s, E. I. du Pont began making the chemical itself, before phasing it out in 2015, according to the suit. The lawsuits also allege that E. I. du Pont planned and executed a series of corporate restructurings from 2013 to 2019 in an effort to separate assets and hinder environmental litigation. E. I. du Pont spun off its chemicals business to the Chemours Company in 2015, then merged with Dow Chemical Company. Afterward, three separate companies were created: Dow Chemical, DuPont de Nemours and Corteva Agriscience, which assumed certain liabilities, including those relating to PFAS. DuPont spokesman Daniel Turner said in a statement that the DuPont de Nemours company, formed in 2019, never manufactured PFOA, PFOS or firefighting foam. The company is a defendant in Marylands lawsuits. While we dont comment on litigation matters, we believe this complaint is without merit, Turner said. Corteva, also a defendant in the suits, declined to comment on the litigation. Chemours, another defendant, did not respond to a request for comment. In a statement about the litigation, the American Chemistry Council, which includes all of the companies as members, expressed concern that Marylands announcement of its litigation painted all PFAS chemicals with too broad a brush. The PFAS category spans a broad range of substances with different characteristics, chemical profiles and uses. Whether at the state, federal, or international level, it is neither scientifically accurate nor appropriate to group all PFAS together or take a one-size-fits-all regulatory approach for this wide range of substances, read the statement. Maryland legislators have banned the manufacturing and sale of food packaging, carpet and firefighting foams with PFAS chemicals intentionally added, starting in 2024. The Maryland lawsuits point to specific examples of PFAS contamination in Maryland. Firefighting foams, for instance, were used on a number of military bases in the state, and subsequent testing uncovered high levels of PFAS in the environment. In previous instances, PFAS manufacturers have employed the government contractor defense, pointing to a 1988 Supreme Court case that limited liability for corporations manufacturing goods to government specifications, according to an analysis in Bloomberg Law. In Maryland, the list of impacted military bases includes Aberdeen Proving Ground in Harford County, Joint Base Andrews in Prince Georges County, Naval Air Station Patuxent River in St. Marys County and the Naval Research Lab, Chesapeake Bay Detachment in Calvert County. At the Calvert County lab, a 2017 investigation uncovered a large PFAS plume in the shallow aquifer, according to the Maryland lawsuit. Testing found 234,000 parts per trillion of PFOS. At Joint Base Andrews in Prince Georges County, investigators found surface soil of up to 17 million parts per trillion PFOS and up to 150,000 parts per trillion PFOA, according to the suit. Officials in Maryland also have conducted testing of drinking water systems and fish tissue, and uncovered PFAS contamination. In October 2021, Maryland issued its first-ever fish consumption advisory because of PFAS, for several species in the Piscataway Creek, a Potomac River tributary that runs near Joint Base Andrews. 2023 Baltimore Sun. Visit baltimoresun.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. HOLLYWOOD, Fla. The FBI is looking for any photos and videos that could help identify suspects in a Memorial Day shooting at a popular Florida beach promenade in which nine people were wounded, including a 1-year-old child. The FBI issued a statement Wednesday asking for people to upload any visual evidence from the shooting to a page on their website. "When the FBI has established digital media tip lines in the past, the public responded with a tremendous volume of information that is then reviewed by investigators," the bureau statement said. Authorities are searching for three suspects in the shooting, which police said began as a group of people fought in front of a busy stretch of shops on the Hollywood Oceanfront Broadwalk around 7 p.m. Monday. Two 18-year-old men involved in the altercation have been arrested on firearms charges, police said. Five handguns have been recovered, including one that was reported stolen in the Miami area and another in Texas, they said. The shooting happened during busy holiday weekend festivities at the popular beach destination just south of Fort Lauderdale. Police spokesperson Deanna Bettineschi said four children between the ages of 1 and 17 were hit, along with five adults between 25 and 65. Six of those who were shot were hospitalized in stable condition and three were released after treatment. The names of those wounded have not been released. AUSTIN, Texas Governors in Virginia, Iowa and South Carolina announced they will send National Guard units to Texas, becoming the latest Republican governors to offer troops to Gov. Greg Abbott, who put out a call for help in protecting his states border with Mexico. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said they will send about 100 National Guard members, while Gov. Henry McMaster said details about South Carolinas Guard support will be available in the coming weeks with a deployment expected by July 1. The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state, Youngkin said Wednesday in a statement. The troops will combat the smuggling of drugs and people across the Texas border and address the humanitarian crisis during a deployment authorized through Sept. 30, Youngkin said. The 100 Guard members will be joined by 21 support personnel, and troops will be equipped with weapons, ammunition, body armor, protective masks, and night vision and other support devices, according to the governors directive. Democratic state lawmakers in Virginia told The Washington Post that they were informed the deployment will cost about $12.4 million in state funds, or $3.1 million per month. House Minority Leader Del. Don Scott Jr. told the newspaper that he found the cost disturbing because the deployment lacks a specific and prescribed mission. Iowas troops will deploy for 30 days in August and Reynolds will send 30 state police in September, according to her announcement. The three states join governors from Florida and Tennessee who previously announced they would send troops to Texas through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, which allows states to provide resources to each other during emergencies. Idaho and Nebraska have pledged law enforcement support, which Texas has also requested. Each state providing support is doing so at its own expense, according to the compact request. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis authorized 800 troops who are scheduled to split the work in Texas into two 16-day rotations. Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee authorized a one-month assignment at the border for 100 troops. Abbott on May 16 requested help in a letter to all governors, citing a projected surge in illegal activity at the border caused by the May 11 lifting of the public health policy, known as Title 42. The policy allowed federal border agents to quickly expel migrants over concern that they would spread the coronavirus. The Texas governors stance has not wavered despite the Department of Homeland Security reporting illegal border crossings have dropped since Title 42 lifted. He hosted nine Republican governors in Austin on May 22 for a briefing on Texas border operations. Youngkin, McMaster, Reynolds and Lee were in attendance, according to Abbotts office. Roughly 5,500 Texas National Guard troops are deployed to Operation Lone Star, which began about two years ago in partnership with Texas state police. At its peak in late 2021, Abbott said about 10,000 Guard members were deployed by him. This work is separate from a federal mission at the border, which has about 4,000 National Guard and active-duty troops authorized to serve across the entire southwest border in support of U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents. Youngkin described the importance of sending troops as part of Virginias fight against fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is often caught being smuggled into the U.S. from Mexico. The drug can be fatal in small doses. An average of five Virginians die each day from a fentanyl overdose, he said. WASHINGTON The latest U.S. military aid for Ukraine worth up to $300 million includes munitions for drones, the Pentagon announced Wednesday. The drone ammunition in the new military aid follows attacks Tuesday by unmanned aircraft that targeted Moscow. However, there is no indication that U.S.-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow, and U.S. officials have repeatedly said Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. Russia has blamed Ukraine for Tuesday's attack, though Ukrainian officials have not commented directly about it. The latest drone attack on Moscow follows a Russian takeover of the eastern Ukrainian city Bakhmut after a nine-month battle that killed tens of thousands of people. Ukraines long-awaited spring counterattack also could be underway now. The United States will continue to work with its allies and partners to provide Ukraine with capabilities to meet its immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements, the Pentagon said in a statement. Other equipment in the package includes munitions for Patriot missile batteries and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, mine-clearing equipment, anti-armor rounds and more than 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition. The equipment and weapons are being given through the presidential drawdown authority, which means it will come directly from Pentagon stocks and sent quickly on an emergency basis. Aid given this way typically means it reaches Ukraine in a matter of weeks. Including the latest aid, the U.S. has provided more than $37.6 billion to Ukraine since the war began in February 2022. The weapons and equipment in the latest package include: Additional munitions for Patriot air-defense systems. AIM-7 missiles for air defense. Avenger air-defense systems. Stinger anti-aircraft systems. Additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS. 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds. 105mm tank ammunition. Precision aerial munitions. Zuni aircraft rockets. Munitions for drones. AT-4 anti-armor systems. More than 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition. Mine clearing equipment and systems. Demolition munitions for obstacle clearing. Night-vision devices. Spare parts, generators, and other field equipment. The Associated Press contributed to this report. AUSTIN, Texas The Department of Veterans Affairs expects to end 2023 with a record number of veterans filing disability claims, but the recent hiring push at the agency should help expedite the process and not add to its backlog of unresolved cases, VA Secretary Denis McDonough said Tuesday. The VAs backlog of claims, which are cases waiting more than 125 days for a decision, has remained at roughly 200,000, despite the increase in filings triggered by the passage last year of a law that expanded toxic exposure benefits. We're working very hard to make sure that we bring that down. But the fact is, it's lower than we feared it [would be] had we not had the success that we've had in hiring, McDonough said after touring a VA clinic in Cedar Park, a northern suburb of Austin. The Sgt. 1st Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022, or PACT Act, became law in 2022. Now millions of additional veterans could be eligible for disability benefits because of exposure that they might have had to toxins, such as those that emanated from burn pits used to rid overseas military bases of trash and other materials during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The bill also covers veterans exposed to toxins during the Vietnam War. The VA is approaching 600,000 claims filed through the PACT Act since President Joe Biden signed it in August. The law included a $5 billion Toxic Exposure Fund to cover the increased demand on the agency to help avoid problems caused by a similar expansion of coverage years earlier. More than 611,000 claims backlogged following a court decision that allowed for Vietnam veterans to get re-evaluated for claims filed for exposure to the pesticide Agent Orange. The VA anticipated the PACT Acts passage and began using extra funds to ramp up its hiring efforts. Since then, it increased its Veterans Benefits Administration staff by 20%, McDonough said. Last year, the VA received a record-breaking 1.7 million claims for benefits. This year has already seen 30% more, he said. Concern grew this month within the VA that progress made on claim processing could stall as Republican lawmakers considered cutting the departments budget as part of cost-savings being negotiated in exchange for raising the federal governments debt ceiling. Republicans argued McDonough misrepresented their proposal and VA spending was not in jeopardy. However, with a debt-ceiling agreement reached in recent days, McDonough said money set aside for the PACT Act would be safe through 2024 and for years to follow. That's a really big and important give in the [agreement]. It's one of the reasons that the President [Joe Biden] feels as strong as he does about it, McDonough said. McDonough made the trip to Texas to discuss the PACT Act and see the progress being made to get benefits to veterans, their families and surviving spouses. The trip also aimed to reach veterans about the benefits now available to them and encourage them to file a claim. As part of his meetings in Cedar Park, McDonough also met with Rep. John Carter, R-Texas, who represents Cedar Park and serves as the chairman of the House Appropriations Committees subpanel for military construction and veterans affairs. In the meeting Carter said he had a good cross-section of complaints and praises to share with McDonough. One of his larger concerns is ensuring the VA can compete to hire medical providers despite the private sectors ability offer more money. Its really hard to get these specialties like major neurosurgeons. Theyre scarce as hens teeth, as my mother used to say, Carter said. Central Texas is the third fastest growing region for veterans across the country with two new facilities opened last year in Killeen and Copperas Cove, and two more slated for San Marcos and Pflugerville, McDonough said. As part of McDonoughs tour through Texas, which is home to about 1.5 million veterans, he has planned visits in the next two days to VA offices and medical facilities in Austin, San Antonio and Houston. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31.I am sure that Baku Energy Week will further step up the dialogue on global cooperation on energy security, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said in the appeal to the participants of the Baku Energy Week, Trend reports. "I congratulate you on the occasion of the start of the Baku Energy Week, which includes a number of prestigious energy events of the Caspian region, and wish you success in your future activities. The Baku Energy Week encompasses authoritative events such as the 28th International Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition, the 11th Caspian International Power and Green Energy Exhibition and the 28th Baku Energy Forum. This traditional annual event is an opportunity for discussing matters related to global energy security, the potential of alternative and renewable energy, including the promotion of green energy projects, as well as the diversification of energy sources," President Ilham Aliyev said. Michael Cooneys son Cian (37) engaged in multiple acts of defilement, sexual exploitation and grooming of a schoolgirl (13) Michael Cooney, who tried to buy the silence of his sons victims family, in Longford this week The Longford ex-hotelier who unsuccessfully tried to buy off a family with 50,000 to drop a criminal complaint against his paedophile son did so just two years after exiting bankruptcy. Well-known businessman Michael Cooney, whose wife had a 3m debt largely written off for just 1,600 at the time of his offending, refused to talk to the Sunday World about trying to silence his sons victim when we approached him outside his former hotel in Ballymahon last week. Cooney, from Mostrim Road, Ballymahon, was recently convicted of menacing a witness in an attempt to pervert the court of justice in relation to a criminal complaint against his paedophile son Cian (37), who engaged in multiple acts of defilement, sexual exploitation and grooming of a 13-year-old schoolgirl. Michael Cooney, who tried to buy the silence of his sons victims family, in Longford this week Cian Cooney, who worked as a teacher in Dublin when he carried out the offences, is currently serving a five-year jail sentence after being convicted in 2021. His father Michael, who is well-known in business and GAA circles in the midlands, appeared in Longford Circuit Court earlier this month where he pleaded guilty to menacing a witness in the case. Michael Cooney told the victims mother he would do anything for his son and had nothing to lose as he tried to buy the familys silence to protect his paedophile son from being exposed. He made persistent efforts over a three month period to buy off the family, causing them great stress and worry. He received a two-and-a-half year suspended sentence. Michael Cooney came out of Cooneys Hotel in Ballymahon when the Sunday World approached him for comment this week. He refused to answer any questions and turned away from our reporter before making his way back into the hotel at speed. He ran the hotel for several years but announced last year that he was selling it as he wanted to retire. The hotel is currently listed as sale agreed on property websites. A legal representative of Cooney later wrote to the Sunday World to say he currently has no involvement in the establishment known as Cooneys Hotel. Michael Cooney, the father of convicted child groomer Cian Cooney The hotel made national headlines in September 2020 when Michael Cooney said he was devastated after someone caused more than 20,000 of damage by smashing stained glassed windows at the hotel. The culprit was later convicted and paid 1,100 in compensation to Michael Cooney, and was fined 250. Michael Cooney and his family have had business and property interests in the town for decades and opened the first supermarket in Ballymahon, which they ran for 20 years. The hotel sponsored the local GAA club for years and Cooney is listed as a board delegate on the clubs executive committee. In her victim impact statement, the mother of the girl groomed by Cian Cooney said Michael Cooneys actions caused a lot of stress for her family. People showed up to my house offering money and attempted to make me feel guilt and shame. It caused a lot of anxiety and worry. It was an attempt to intimidate, to make me feel my family was less than him. The Longford Leader reported that Cooney handed in an apology to court where he said: I have let myself, my family and my county down. In 2019, at the same time Cooney was offering 50,000 to the victims family, his wife and business partner Josephine Cooney had debts of 3m largely written off after agreeing to pay 1,600 as part of a personal insolvency arrangement. She made headlines when she was described in court as a hotel receptionist with a 3m debt. Unlike his wife, Michael Cooney had gone bankrupt but had his bankruptcy discharged in 2017. The Revenue Commissioners had secured judgements against him for amounts totalling more than 300,000 before his bankruptcy. He was also fined on three occasions for failing to declare income tax and failure to hold a liquor licence while serving alcohol. Cian Cooney was sentenced to six and a half years in jail with the final 18 months suspended in 2021 after he pleaded guilty to defilement, sexual exploitation and grooming of a 13-year-old girl in 2013. Habib Shamel (32) is currently in custody charged with murdering her on April 4 this year. An international letter of request for evidence is being sought over the alleged killing of a woman during a sexual exchange in Limerick , a Belfast court has heard. Prosecutors also disclosed that detectives investigating the fatal stabbing of 27-year-old Geila Ibram are continuing to compile CCTV footage and obtain witness statements. Habib Shamel (32) is currently in custody charged with murdering her on April 4 this year. Ms Ibrams mutilated body was discovered at an apartment block in the Dock Road area of Limerick. The victim, who was originally from Romania, died from multiple stab wounds inflicted to the neck, face and abdomen in a vicious and frenzied attack, according to police. Shamel, an Afghani national with an address at Cecil Street in Limerick, was later arrested in the Malone area of south Belfast. He has been charged with Ms Ibrams murder under the Criminal Jurisdiction Act 1975, which allows the PSNI to prosecute in Northern Ireland if a suspect has travelled from another jurisdiction. A previous court heard he had allegedly arranged a sexual exchange with the victim on the day she died. CCTV footage allegedly showed him arriving at her property and then leaving again less than two minutes later. Detectives claim he injured his hand during the suspected encounter and attended hospital in Limerick before travelling north by bus. With the PSNI providing assistance in the murder investigation, Shamel was considered too great a risk to release on bail. At a further hearing in Belfast Magistrates Court today it was disclosed that a formal International Letter of Request (ILOR) remains outstanding. Its with the authorities in the Republic of Ireland, a Crown lawyer said. He also set out the ongoing investigative steps in the probe into Ms Ibrams killing. Gardai are continuing to gather witness statements, process forensics and compile CCTV footage, the prosecutor added. That will all be available on receipt of the ILOR, it has to go through a rather convoluted procedure. District Judge Steven Keown adjourned the case to June 27 for a further update. Family group of 44 cousins take fraudster and CAB target to court over contested will which left him fortune Peter OToole who was involved in a case over a disputed will in Galway Gus Kelehan was involved in the will dispute A family member who challenged a will leaving a multi-million euro estate to convicted Galway fraudster Peter OToole, has said: This was never about the money. In an interview with the Sunday World, mechanic Gus Kelehan, a first cousin of deceased 91-year-old Margaret Hernon told us: The fact is we (as a family) felt this needed to be brought out into the open. It wasnt about money for me or my family, because there are 44 of us. We took the case because we felt it was the right thing to do. She was the last of my fathers generation and we did not feel this will, that materialised six months after her death, reflected what we believe she would have wanted. During a tense five-day High Court battle the court heard how the contested 2006 document left almost the entirety of the estate, valued at between 2.5 and 9 million, to convicted fraudster Peter OToole, a son of one of the deceaseds first cousins. Peter OToole who was involved in a case over a disputed will in Galway Read more The estate includes 13 acres of farmland on the edge of Galway city, six acres of which have been zoned for housing, and a bank account holding 900,000 in cash. It was initially believed when Margaret, who was childless and whose husband predeceased her, died on March 16, 2017, she had not made a will. However, several months after her death, a will surfaced, purportedly executed in 2006 by Mrs Hernon before solicitor Liam O Gallchobhair of Highfield Park, in Galway. In the document, a sum of 22,000 was left to a few friends and relatives of Mrs Hernon, and to the local Catholic Church she regularly attended. The remainder was left to Peter OToole. During the court proceedings, barristers for Gus Kelehan argued that Mr O Gallchobhair was not the deceaseds solicitor and was an associate of OToole. The latter, they said, had in the past been convicted of offences including possession of a weapon, forgery and deception. Paddy McCarthy SC said it was Mr Kelehans case that the deceased did not have a good relationship with Mr OToole and did not have any time for him. The case related to the estate of Margaret Hernon He said Mr OToole was unpopular within the wider family due to his past criminal behaviour with Gus Kelehan later referring to Mr OToole as a blight on our family. Mr McCarthy, SC said OToole was convicted in the 1970s before the Special Criminal Court in Dublin for possession of a gun that was used by others in a robbery in Galway in 1974 in which an innocent man was shot dead. He was also convicted before courts in the UK in the 1970s and 1980s for offences, including obtaining property by deception and forgery. He said that prior to her death, Ms Hernon had discussions with the solicitors who acted for her over many years. She put together a draft will, which was ultimately never finalised, and never said anything about having signed a will in 2006. The details of Mr OTooles convictions were not being contested, the court heard; however, the claims of deceit surrounding the will were denied and, in a counter claim, retired solicitor Mr O Gallchobhair sought an order formally proving the 2006 will. Mr O Gallchobhair claimed he met Ms Hernon on a street in Galway city and, following a conversation, she made the will in his office in 2006. He claimed she went to him and not her regular solicitor because she believed that others knew too much about her business affairs. He accepted that he knew Mr OToole, and acted for him, but denied colluding with him regarding the will. Mr OToole also denied any wrongdoing and claimed he had a good relationship with the deceased. On Tuesday of this week, the court heard proceedings between the parties had been settled. Half of the late Margaret Hernons estate is to go to Peter OToole and the remaining half of the estate is to be divided among over 40 other children of Mrs Hernons first cousins, one of whom is Gus Kelehan. Mr Kelehan was also appointed as the representative of Mrs Hernons next-of-kin, while both sides legal costs from the proceedings are to come from the estate. The case related to the estate of Margaret Hernon. Asked why the family had agreed to settle, Gus told the Sunday World: The risks were high so thats why we settled. I didnt want to leave my house up there after me to pay costs if it went badly. When you are up there in the Four Courts and your senior counsel, junior counsel and barrister are all advising you to settle you settle. And that will is not really the will anymore because now there is a settlement It (the estate) is left now in the hands of our solicitor and his solicitor. And its all going to be sold and whatever is left after that will be divided up. Approached by the Sunday World for comment, about the allegations made against him, at his home in Leagaun, Moycullen this week, Peter OToole declined to answer our questions. Would you ever do what you should do and just leave here, he responded. Gus Kelehan was involved in the will dispute During the hearing, which lasted five days, evidence was also given to the court concerning an ongoing allegation by gardai concerning OToole and details of a revenue bill served on him by the Criminal Assets Bureau. Detective Garda John Kerrigan confirmed a Garda investigation had taken place into claims the 2006 will was obtained by deceit adding the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had decided that no prosecution is to take place. But, he said, a decision is being awaited from the DPP on another file in relation to another complaint made against Mr OToole by the late Peter Bunker Lydon. Mr Lydon was a bachelor farmer, aged in his 80s, who had claimed that he was never paid for lands he owned in Kingston, Galway that he sold to Mr OToole. Det Gda Kerrigan said that an aspect of the investigation centres around the lodgement 1.5m by Mr OToole in January 2019 to the benefit favour of Mr Lydon, who was in a nursing home at the time. Within a few days, a sum of over 1.4m was drawn from Mr Lydons account by cheque. Det Gda Kerrigan said Mr Lydon, who has since passed away, was not able to read or write. The High Court also heard that the revenue wing of CAB has served Mr OToole with a tax demand. Matthew Bainton (33) was caught relieving himself in front of crowds leaving the venue after having been too engrossed in the rappers performance A concert-goer became aggressive toward gardai when they stopped him urinating on the front door of Dublins 3Arena after a gig by Snoop Dogg. Matthew Bainton (33) was caught relieving himself in front of crowds leaving the venue after having been too engrossed in the US rappers performance to use the bathroom during the show, a court heard. Judge Bryan Smyth fined him 400 when he appeared in Dublin District Court. Bainton, a father-of-one with an address at Priors Gate, Tallaght, admitted charges of indecency by urinating in public, threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour causing a breach of the peace, and failing to give gardai his name and address. The court heard the incident happened March 26. Gardai on duty at the venue at 10.10pm saw Bainton urinating against the front door, while a large number of people were in the area. The gardai approached him and demanded his name. When he failed to give his name and was told of the penalties, Bainton became aggressive, cursing at the gardai. He was arrested. The court heard Bainton provided his personal details when he was brought to a garda station. The accused had one previous conviction for assault. Bainton and his girlfriend had been at the concert together that night, his barrister Tara McLoughlin said. He was so engrossed in the concert, he didnt get up to go to the bathroom, then when the concert ended this happened, she explained. He maintained he was in a state of undress when the gardai approached him and pulled him across the road and this is where the reaction came from. The accused was in employment and had no addiction issues. Judge Smyth fined him 300 for breach of the peace, 100 for urinating and took the other charge into consideration. The car sped from the Ballinteer area and travelled onto the M50, where it was pursued by a number of garda vehicles for around 10 minutes. Three suspected members of a notorious burglary gang are in custody this afternoon after they were arrested following a terrifying pursuit with gardai in south Dublin. Gardai became aware of an attempted break-in at a home in Ballinteer at lunchtime today. Officers noticed that the car involved in the break-in was a vehicle wanted in connection with multiple recent burglaries in south Dublin and Co Meath. It is a high-powered Audi that has been observed with numerous false number plates including them brazenly using a registration plate number belonging to an official Garda vehicle. Dramatic car chase in Tallaght The car then sped from the Ballinteer area and travelled onto the M50, where it was pursued by a number of Garda vehicles for around 10 minutes. There was multiple incidents of dangerous driving on the motorway, which continued after the culprits left the M50 at the Tallaght exit. The chase continued into the Glenview area of Tallaght before coming to a stop after being involved in a collision with a garda vehicle. The criminals abandoned their car but were arrested seconds later after a short foot pursuit. The occupants of the vehicle, two men, aged in their 20s and late teens, and a male juvenile were arrested. A woman was also arrested at the scene for public order offences. It is understood a motorcyclist suffered injury after being hit by the car driven by the reckless criminals in the course of the incident. He was hospitalised after suffering a broken hip and leg after being struck in the Rathfarnham area. The garda air support and dog unit assisted in the dramatic operation, which is being described by senior sources as highly significant. The three suspects are being questioned at south Dublin garda stations this afternoon. Gardai are appealing for any witnesses to come forward. Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the Rathfarnham and Tallaght areas between 1:00pm and 2:00pm are asked to make this footage available to Gardai. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Tallaght garda station on 01 666 6000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station. Up to 300 suspects using fraudster website to con innocent people have been identified A garda investigation has identified 16,000 Irish victims of an organised fraud gang who used a specialist website to commit global scams worth more than 115m. The Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) has been working with multiple international police agencies in the probe into the online fraud shop used to con victims. Senior sources say the investigation codenamed Operation Elaborate has led to the identification of 300 suspects, with the majority of these being based in the UK. The iSpoof.cc website, which was shut down by law enforcement last year, offered criminals tools that allowed them to disguise phone calls so they appeared to be from a trusted organisation, such as a bank, so they could empty their targets accounts. What is Phishing and how do I avoid the scammers? The website provided a number of packages for users who would buy, in Bitcoin, the number of minutes they wanted to use the software for to make calls. The phone numbers used in Ireland to scam people include the eFlow toll company, banks, the HSE, gardai, businesses, government departments and delivery companies. Figures show around 40m has been stolen in this type of crime in Ireland since 2020. Last November the GNECB, backed up by the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau (GNCCB) and local detectives, carried out 18 searches and made six arrests as part of Operation Elaborate. A lot of devices were seized during the course of these searches and these are still being examined. What is not in doubt is the scale of this criminal enterprise was huge, a senior source said. Investigations have established that all the suspects who used the website had to pay in cryptocurrency to use the server and there are victims located all over the world. The garda searches last November were targeting the main Irish users of the site, the source explained. At the time, gardai announced that the searches happened in counties Dublin, Meath and Louth and led to 132 electronic devices being seized and 64 suspect bank accounts being identified. What is telling is that in the weeks after this search and arrest operation, the incidence of smishing and vishing calls dropped by 90pc, or so, in Ireland, the source explained. But unfortunately organised criminals are very resilient and the servers are now back up and running and people are still being targeted with this type of fraud. Smishing a combination of the words SMS and phishing is a scam where fraudsters use mobile phone text messages to trick you into opening a malicious attachment or link. Vishing relies on convincing victims that a caller is from a trusted institution such as a bank or government department when it in fact its from a fraudster trying to get their financial information. Last week RTE presenter Sarah McInerney revealed how fraudsters gained access to her bank account after she fell victim to a text scam. RTE's Sarah McInerney was a victim of a recent smishing scam The message claiming to be from the eFlow toll company told her there were issues with her payments and she would need to take a look at the terms and conditions. Within 15 minutes, the scammer had attempted to make a couple of transactions from her bank account. Earlier this month, an English criminal called Tejay Fletcher (35), who administered the website fraudsters paid to use, was jailed for 13 years and four months at Southwark Crown Court in London. Fletcher last month pleaded guilty to four charges, including making or supplying an article for use in fraud, encouraging or assisting the commission of an offence, possession of criminal property and transferring criminal property, between November 30, 2020 and November 8, 2022. The website raked in around 3.2m sterling in Bitcoin, with the lions share of around 2m ending up with its mastermind Fletcher. The court was also told Fletcher bought a 230,000 (265,000) Lamborghini, two Range Rovers worth 110,000 and an 11,000 Rolex with his ill-gotten gains. In the 12 months until last August, around 10 million fraudulent calls were made globally via iSpoof and gardai have said investigations showed the website was potentially used by 21,000 users worldwide who are all suspected of being engaged in fraudulent activities via spoofed phone numbers. A total of 142 arrests have been made as part of the overall global crackdown. The woman was arrested alongside three men, one of American nationality and another two from Colombia Local police with some of the haul Some of the drugs seized in the raids An Irish woman has been arrested in Spain after police raided fake cannabis clubs in Benidorm and seized 15 kilos of marijuana. Spanish media reports that the woman, who was carrying an Irish passport, was arrested alongside three men, one of American nationality and another two from Colombia, by agents of the Benidorm Local Police. The operation also resulted in the seizure of what has been described as a large quantity of narcotic substances that were sold illegally in two establishments in the city. According to reports, a premises in the Rincon de Loix area of Benidorm operated as two cannabis clubs, but in both cases, they did not meet any of the legal requirements to function as such. Local police with some of the haul Cannabis clubs are members-only areas which provide a place for consumption of the drug in a private space and members must pay a fee to join. Under 2015 legislation, cannabis clubs are only allowed to operate if they are registered as a cultural association. The targeted clubs were allowing people who werent members enter and also not keeping a record of those who attended while one of them operated without any type of license. Sources indicate that agents had suspected that drugs were trafficked in both establishments which hid their activity under the guise of cannabis clubs.. The operation was carried out as part of a campaign of inspections over a three-week period. In addition to the four people arrested, police also seized 15 kilograms of marijuana, as well as hashish in small quantities, some cash and other utensils used for selling the drugs, such as precision scales and small plastic bags. In the first raid on May 5, agents seized 11.5 kilos of marijuana, while in the second, which took place the following week, the amount of drugs seized was 3.5 kilos. The four who have been arrested, including the Irish woman, are accused of alleged crimes against public health for trafficking in narcotic substances. The image forms part of an exhibition in the Royal Hibernian Academy Gallery in Dublin An AI-generated image of four young women from a Magdalene laundry has been deemed cruel and insensitive to survivors of the institutions. The image, by filmmaker David Lester Mooney, on display in the Royal Hibernian Academy Gallery, was created using artificial intelligence and forms part of a larger exhibition of visual arts. It was posted on Twitter by the gallery on May 23, prompting visitors to visit the exhibition (free of charge) to see what you think, but many took to the replies to voice their own opinions about the artwork. One commented that it was tone deaf and another felt it was an abominable, shallow & soulless image made as an ego-stroking AI prompt by an algorithm sucking in & plagiarising other works. Call in to the gallery (open 7 days a week, free admission) and see what you think about this ai generated image hanging in the 193rd RHA Annual Exhibition...amongst 560 other artworks! #rha https://t.co/qaixq4HhrF RHA Gallery (@RHAGallery) May 23, 2023 Following radio coverage of the exhibition, RTEs radio culture show Arena then tweeted the image, which further garnered critical response from listeners. Another artist commented that their own artwork had been rejected for the same exhibition but if this is representative of the standard that the RHA select, Im actually glad. Some users suggested the tweet should be deleted, but others expressed an interest in how an image like Mooneys came to be, suggesting the much more culturally interesting and attitudinally illuminating side of this artwork is invisible to the viewer the prompts the artist input to the AI. Ah here. This is in the worst taste. Many of these women and their children and families are alive they aren't an experiment in art forms or something from the past. They are real human people who exist and who are still in a battle with the state. I do not like this at all. Sarah Clancy (@sarahmaintains) May 29, 2023 Selfies are at the vapid end of photography at the best of times (and if they are AI generated, they have fallen off that end) so to insert such a serious and distressing story into such a frivolous framework is deeply unsavoury- and also a matter of very real distress to many. GynaeStruggle (@GynaeStruggles) May 29, 2023 The artist himself felt that the backlash wasnt warranted, and gave some insight into his work saying it was an attempt to amplify voices with a relatable and empowering self portrait, made on a laptop. Ok, relax. It was an attempt to amplify voices from the past with a relatable and empowering self portrait, made on a laptop. David Lester Mooney (@dlestermooney) May 29, 2023 An associate professor of art history at University College Dublin shared the tweet, asking about the origins of the backlash. Im interested in the overwhelmingly negative response to this, she wrote. Is it because its a fabricated image that looks like a 19th century historical photo? Is it because it uses AI? Is it because it poses fake Magdalene women in the banal aesthetic of the selfie? The RHA gallery told Independent.ie: The work Throwback Selfies #Magdalene:010 by David Lester Mooney was selected for the exhibition through an open submission process where works go through a rigorous two part selection process and the final decision on whether a work is accepted is made by a majority vote. The selection panel believe that it is a strong image. The image that depicts four women in historical dress taking a selfie is on sale for 5,000. Its just one of 560 pieces in various styles of visual art, from architecture and sculpture to tech-generated like Mooneys. The Magdalene Laundries were institutions generally run by orders of the Catholic Church that housed an estimated 30,000 Irish women from the late 1700s until the last remaining laundry closed in 1996. Women as young as 12 were housed in the institutions and often put to work in gruelling conditions and mistreated. The laundries have been the topic of international debate and horror in the decades since they were shut down. On his own Instagram account, Mooney shared the image and received some similar commentary. One user asked about his smug replies to critics that they considered rude given the concerns that this piece feels less like its exposing an atrocity we shouldnt forget and more like you just thought of something edgy to put into an AI, to which the artist responded: Pretty rude? This is my personal IG account. What can I say, sorry you didnt like it. Others took to his comments to congratulate the artist and express their appreciation for the artwork. The image is on display until July 30 as part of the 193rd RHA Annual Exhibition. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. We will continue to support a just peace in the South Caucasus, US President Joseph Biden said in a letter addressed to participants of the Baku Energy Week, Trend reports. Will be updated The silver-plated pencil is just one of a number of historical items going under the hammer at Bloomfield Auctions next week The son of a Holocaust survivor has said that a pencil that once belonged to Hitler is tainted beyond redemption as he called for it be withdrawn from a Belfast auction. The silver-plated pencil is just one of a number of historical items going under the hammer at Bloomfield Auctions next week. It believed to have been a birthday present given to the former Nazi dictator by his partner Eva Braun in 1941. But the founder of Holocaust Awareness Ireland, Oliver Sears, said that making money out of such material is immoral and unethical". "The arguments for trading in this material are very thin, he stated in a letter addressed to the Managing Director of Bloomfield Auctions, Karl Bennett. There is an abundance of such material in museums around the world and, if there is a place for these items, that is surely where they belong," he wrote. "However, making money out of such material is immoral and unethical. There is a very good reason why most auction houses refuse to handle this material, including Sotheby's and Christie's. Simply put, this material is tainted beyond any mitigation or redemption. "There is only one reason to go ahead with the sale and that is to make money, regardless of the circumstances. The very idea that anyone should make money out of the suffering of the millions murdered in the Holocaust is shameful." Speaking to RTEs Morning Ireland, Mr Bennett said that while he "respects those people who may feel offended or may feel hurt by the items that we're selling, I firmly believe that these pieces will end up in serious military collections". He denied any attempt at profiteering, saying these items are of historical military significance. He also suggested the pencil could be purchased by a "well-known museum". The sale of Nazi memorabilia is illegal in some European countries, including Germany, Austria and France. However, there is no ban on such sales in the UK or Ireland. Fianna Fail Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee said she intends to introduce a private members bill that outlaws the sale of Nazi memorabilia. "Other countries like Germany, Austria, France, Sweden and Brazil have done similar. "I think it is a very fitting thing to do because it's absolutely repulsive that anybody should seek to profit from the most horrendous regime in memory," she told Morning Ireland. The pencil, originally bought by a collector at an auction in 2002, has an inscription in German, ending in Eva, and has the initials AH. The sale of wide-ranging historical items at Bloomfield Auctions in east Belfast on 6 June will also include an original signed photograph of Hitler and a rare hand-written pardon by Queen Victoria dated to 1869 for Irish rebels convicted of treason. Mr Bennett said they expected interest from around the world. The importance of Hitlers engraved personal pencil lies in the fact that it helps to unravel a hidden piece of history, giving a unique insight into Hitlers personal relationships, which he scrupulously kept hidden from the public eye, he said. Much of Hitlers personal appeal during his dictatorship derived from his carefully constructed identity as the father of the German nation, who rejected personal connection in favour of loyalty to his country. This love token of a personalised pencil from Eva on his birthday helps reveal the deception behind Hitlers public facade. He added that he could understand why people may have reservations about selling and collecting items belonging to the dictator. But for me, as a high-end collector of militaria items, they preserve a piece of our past and should be treated as historical objects, no matter if the history they refer to was one of the darkest and most controversial in recorded history, he said. Used heroin needles sit on top of the rubbish bins. Residents told the Sunday World the apartments themselves are brilliant, but at night-time things often take a sinister turn for the worse A security guard at the problem block of flats where heroin kingpin Noel Johnston plunged to his grisly death quit his job because he said it was too scary and hed served two tours of Afghanistan and Iraq! Noel Johnston jumped from the top-floor apartment in November 2021 after mistakenly thinking cops kicking in the door of the apartments during a drugs raid was actually a hit squad sent to murder him. Noel Johnston. Read more: Drug baron Noel Johnston may have mistook police for hit squad prior to fatal fall Read more: Drugs baron Noel Johnston made a hopeless bid to climb to safety before fatal fall Residents living in the block were traumatised by the shocking events that night, with many witnessing Johnson plummet to the concrete below where he remained for eight hours as police forensic teams investigated in case hed been murdered. Since he died residents at the Ballymena apartment block have continued to live under the knuckle of drug dealers who flood to the social homes to deal and party. While some residents have drink and/or drug problems, not everyone living there does. There are people living with young families who are vulnerable for a whole host of reasons, and they hoped their new apartment would bring them a fresh start in life. While residents can rejoice that one nightmare tenant, Leanne McFall, wont be hassling them for at least four months while shes behind bars, they say there are many more issues which make living there a sometimes terrifying experience. Leanne McFall is now behind bars The block of recently-built apartments at 52-54 High Street in the centre of Ballymena were completed for Choice Housing in March 2020. Residents told the Sunday World the apartments themselves are brilliant and on the face-of-it they look fantastic. But at night-time things often take a sinister turn for the worse. Drugs, drinking, all-night parties and vicious fighting are commonplace and leave many residents too scared to go outside. Used heroin needles sit on top of the rubbish bins. One resident, who did not wish to be identified, has documented through videos and pictures the aftermath of much of the anti-social behaviour. We are shown images of abandoned crack pipes and needles used for heroin strewn on the steps outside, while some are placed carelessly inside open bins without any thought for the dangers of someone getting pricked accidently while merely putting their rubbish where its supposed to go. These are brilliant apartments and inside they are fantastic but the management team from the housing association have got to do more to protect people, said a resident. At night there are parties in some apartments, and outside there is open drug dealing, heroin being injected and people smoking crack. Blood in the apartment block Residents counted 800 fag butts left outside on one night on the ground. The people on the ground floor are the most vulnerable and yet they have to live with drug dealing, all-night drinking and fighting going on outside their windows. We are shown videos and images of blood-spattered walls, glass doors kicked to pieces, wooden doors with massive holes in them and urine and vomit flowing down the corridors. We are even shown a picture of a drug addict sleeping right outside the front door of the apartment block, where kids are expected to step over them on their way to school. We had a security guard a while ago who had done two tours of Afghanistan and Iraq and he quit because he said, and I quote, I cant handle this, said the resident. He told us one night there was so many incidents going on at the same time he couldnt attend all the floors to sort them out. On another occasion Leanne McFall was running round punching holes in the wall with a big kitchen knife and the security guard had to tell everyone to stay in their apartments until she calmed down. Inside the flats Designed for social housing they comprise of 40 apartments including 36 for General Needs and four ground floor homes designed for wheelchair access. In fact even in daylight things can get hot and heavy and cops and ambulances are called out regularly. Weve had workmen walk out and refuse to do work due to needles being left lying around, said the resident. Its just not fair on ell the good people who live here and just want to get on with their lives. Only a small handful of countries rank above us for OnlyFans obsession Ireland has ranked in the top ten in the worlds most OnlyFans obsessed countries, new research has revealed. Statistics compiled by Slingo - an online gaming site - showed that Ireland placed a solid sixth in the amount of content were watching on the x-rated subscription service. The bold list compiled countries based on the number of annual Google searches per 10,000 people and is as follows: Australia with 7,147 (views per 10k people) Finland with 6,422 USA with 5,754 New Zealand with 4,511 Canada with 5,240 Ireland with 5,089 UK with 5,006 Iceland with 3,365 Slovenia with 3,274 Norway with 3,165 Stats This research means that essentially either one in every two Irish people are searching for OnlyFans daily either that or someones got a serious Cardi B obsession. The US rapper and WAP hit maker is the third highest earner on Onlyfans, raking in an incredible $9.4 million per month. Actress Bella Thorne is in second place, making $11 million per month while model Blac Chyna ranks in top spot, she makes an incredible $20 million a month showing her sultry images. Founded in 2016, OnlyFans is similar to Instagram in that it shows viewers a feed of pictures and videos. The main difference is that everyones content is behind a paywall. Additionally, there arent any limitations on explicit content. Onlyfans saw a dramatic increase in popularity during the covid pandemic, with the number of accounts doubling. 3 highest earners The site was founded in London and is used by sex workers to produce pornographic content, although it also hosts the work of other content creators, such as physical fitness experts and musicians. It is now viewed as a safe place for those working in the sex industry, offering protection without exploitation in theory in exchange, the site takes 20% of creators earnings. There have been a number of incidents which have been widely reported in the media in relation to Onlyfans. So far this year, teachers have been busted creating content on classroom desks and in one incident, an Australian woman was horrified to discover her step-father was her number one subscriber to her sexual content on the site. The woman said her stepfather had been a part of her life since she was 11 years old. Speaking on an SBS Insights Sex and Subscribers episode, Taila Maddison said her heart sank into her stomach when she figured out who it was. I went into a complete state of shock and I probably was that way for about a week, she said. The studio audience and viewers listened on horrified as Taila detailed the raunchy requests for content her stepfather had requested. He specifically requested things like photos of my underwear every single day, she recalled. Luckily, Irish viewers to the site are mainly only there for the craic. The American rapper, whose real name is Curtis James Jackson III, announced his world tour earlier this month. 50 Cent will play an additional gig in Ireland this November as part of his upcoming The Final Lap Tour. The American rapper, whose real name is Curtis James Jackson III, announced his world tour earlier this month to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his debut album 'Get Rich or Die Tryin. The original tour schedule consisted of five UK and Ireland dates including one night at Dublins 3Arena on November 6. But due to phenomenal demand, 50 Cent has added four more November gigs to his itinerary with an extra night in Dublin on November 7. He has also secured additional dates in Manchester and London, as well as a new date in Newcastle on November 18. The hip hop star will be joined on the tour by Busta Rhymes and special guest Jeremih. Tickets for The Final Lap Tour are on sale now on Ticketmaster from 78. Fans are likely to lap up tickets as 50 Cent hinted last week that The Final Lap Tour may be his last as he begins to focus on his acting career. In an Instagram Live, he told his fans that he wont be running around like this no more. I gotta do my film and television stuff and got a lot of other things going on behind the scenes that I gotta work on. So I wont be out touring as much as Ive been touring Im having fun this time because its set up to enjoy myself, we not feeling pressure. Cancer kills, but early detection of cancer reduces the number who die from it. Whatever the circumstances, there are always better clinical outcomes if the existence of cancer is known earlier, says Prostate Cancer Foundation New Zealand president Danny Bedingfield. Our health system and government know this, and currently take action on some cancers. Examples of cancers that have better outcomes if detected earlier include: Breast cancer: Every year 3400 women are diagnosed, with 600 deaths. A comprehensive early detection programme was started in 2017. Colorectal (or bowel) cancer: Every year 1500 women and 1700 men are diagnosed, with 1200 deaths. A comprehensive early detection programme was started in 2017. Cervical cancer: Every year 160 women are diagnosed, with about 50 deaths. A comprehensive early detection programme was started in 1991. Because New Zealand rightly values lives so much, we also have a $61 million Road to Zero campaign underway seeking to reduce road accidents, which last year claimed 380 lives. And a government budget since 2020 of around $61 billion to prevent deaths and protect the community from Covid-19. Danny says clearly the government accepts it is worthwhile to invest early to save New Zealanders lives except when it comes to prostate cancer, the third-greatest cause of cancer death in men after lung and bowel cancers. More than 4000 men are diagnosed and more than 700 die from the disease every year. Many of these deaths are preventable. Thats why in May we directly asked the Prime Minister and relevant ministers to take the first steps towards a comprehensive early detection programme for prostate cancer. Danny says the time is right. Significant advances in technology and improved diagnostic methods mean previous risks have been reduced, and the latest research clearly shows that a comprehensive early-detection programme holds the promise of halving mortality from the disease. Weve recommended that such a programme be approached in two stages. Stage One would see an initial trial screening project undertaken in at least two regions, one in the North and one in the South Island. This would be based on methodology used by the European Union (its PRAISE-U trial), with information on prostate cancer, early detection and a PSA test being provided to groups at higher risk of significant prostate cancer by a body such as the already existing National Screening Unit. These groups are men over 40 who have the gene variant BRCA2, men over 45 with a family history of prostate cancer, and all men over 50. Following the test, men with low to moderate PSA (less than 3 nanograms per millilitre) may need nothing more beyond being retested after 2-5 years depending on their age and PSA score. Men with a high PSA will have a risk assessment based on family history, prostate volume, PSA density, urinary symptoms and other risk factors. About a third of these men will be expected to need no further interventions. Those still at intermediate or high risk following the risk assessment will have a multi-parametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging (mpMRI) scan. Images of the prostate will be scored on the likelihood of cancer being present (called a PIRADS score). More than half of men who have an mpMRI will have a low PIRADS score requiring no further interventions. Men with an intermediate or high PIRADS score will have a biopsy. Some of these biopsies will lead to a prostate cancer diagnosis but even among this group of men it is estimated that about a quarter will require no immediate treatment beyond active surveillance, i.e. regular appointments to monitor the prostate. In total, about one third of men who have an mpMRI scan are likely to have prostate cancer, three-quarters of whom will need active treatment. Along with collaboration and engagement with the European Union trial, the two trials (or more) in New Zealand will assist in the formation of a strategy and framework that can be rolled out on a nationwide basis. As there is already significant early detection infrastructure in place for other cancers we believe this Stage One initiative could leverage off existing technology and infrastructure, keeping the marginal cost relatively low. Danny says for Stage Two, the government could consider funding key diagnostic procedures for all men in the public sector, particularly mpMRIs, trans-perineal targeted biopsies, and PSMA-PET scans (which can tell if the cancer has spread beyond the prostate) so men with advanced disease do not have to go through unnecessary radical treatment. The Australian government already funds these initiatives and New Zealand men deserve the same respect from our government. We appreciate these Stage Two initiatives may involve more investment, and for that reason our preference is that Stage One trials take priority. Danny says funding of early detection programmes for prostate cancer is an urgent equity issue that needs addressing. Many New Zealanders support this. A petition to Parliament seeking a funded, risk-based equitable prostate cancer testing regime has attracted around 30,000 signatures (online and physical): https://petitions.parliament.nz/773954cb-f8d3-4684-8b61-72b94edaf13b While there was no funding for such a programme in Budget 2023 we believe existing funding may be able to be tapped to fund the Stage One trial. Government needs to act now to save lives. Data released this week reveals the Fruit and Vegetables in Schools initiative, which provides fresh produce to more than 120,000 children and school staff each year, continues to be the most popular healthy kai programme. An independent evaluation conducted by Quigley and Watts* on behalf of the 5+ A Day Charitable Trust which supports the Te Whatu Ora funded initiative, found that FIS rated as the most effective initiative at supporting a healthy kura/school environment. Project manager Carmel Ireland says the feedback from principals is hugely affirming, but is concerned at the desperate need that still exists in the community. Food insecurity has reached even greater heights than before the pandemic. The review shows just how hard it has become for whanau to put nutritious food on the table every day with 93 per cent of principals saying FIS supported them to feed hungry tamariki/children. Principals interviewed for the evaluation highlighted that FIS helped them assist whanau with the high cost of living. Not only was some of the stress of providing fresh produce for tamariki removed but kura/school were also able to assist struggling whanau by sending home excess fruit from time to time. The 2023 review follows similar evaluations in 2014 and 2018. This year it takes into account new schemes such as the governments Ka Ora, Ka Ako Free Healthy Lunches. While there is more support now arriving in kura for hungry tamariki, the evaluation demonstrated that FIS still has a vital role to play in the school day. The review found that 95 per cent of the principals surveyed believed the combination of both free school lunches and FIS were essential. Many stated their fears about what they would do without either initiative. Kura appreciate the option to use fruit in a way which suits their community. Whether its sharing morning tea, supplementing lunches, available all day or handed out as a snack to eat on the way home FIS is easily adapted to fit any environment. Principals reiterated that FIS not only feeds their akonga/students, but also provides a safe environment based on healthy choices and cultural concepts such as manaakitanga, rangatiratanga, kaitiakitanga and connection with the wider community. Tamariki get the nutrition they need without feeling whakama/embarrassed. Nine out of ten principals reported that the integration of fruit into the school day was an effective tool which encouraged healthy eating. Some noted the consumption of highly processed snacks has either greatly reduced or stopped altogether since the start of the initiative. Our goal with FIS is not just to feed hungry tamariki. We want to encourage a life-long appreciation of the value of nutritious food and were able to do that by providing a real variety of tasty fresh produce, some of which tamariki havent had a chance to try before. In the survey, 72 per cent of principals agreed or strongly agreed that if Fruit in Schools ended, academic outcomes would suffer explaining that the main way fruit provision contributed to academic outcomes was by providing brain food that enabled children to concentrate and stay on task. Alongside the fresh produce, FIS provides kura with curriculum resources produced by 5+ A Day to teach healthy lifestyles. The review found the 5+ A Day resources were the most commonly used in comparison with the Te Kete Ipurangi New Zealand Curriculum (TKI) resources produced by the Ministry of Education. Supporting learning is a vital component of FIS. Were pleased they have been rated the most effective with 60 percent of principals saying they were a great support. External Evaluation of Fruit in Schools* 93 per cent of principals said FIS is a great support for feeding hungry children with healthy food. 92 per cent of principals said FIS supported their school/kura greatly to promote a healthy food environment. 91 per cent of principals agreed the overall health of tamariki would decline if FIS ended. 9 out of 10 principals said FIS is a great support to promoting healthy eating. 95 per cent of principals said the quality of the food from FIS was good or great. 97 per cent of principals rated FIS as good/great. 95 per cent of principals said both FIS and Ka Ora, Ka Ako are necessary. 84 per cent used 5+ A Day resources provided to support FIS. The majority of key interviewees agreed that Fruit in Schools was successful because: it is meeting a genuine need and making a real difference it is very well managed, and easy for schools/kura to participate the fruit and vegetables provided are varied and of high quality it has been consistent and reliable over many years To view the full report, please click here. https://www.5aday.co.nz/media/214457/final-evaluation-report-fruit-in-schools-may-2023.pdf A plan to place over 100 people into restaurants and hospitality jobs over the next two months is being set in motion this week. A new joint initiative between the Ministry of Social Development, and the Restaurant Association has launched to help fill the critical skills shortage in the hospitality industry. The Hospo Ready initiative will work to place job seekers into hospitality roles and work with employers to support and mentor those people during their employment. The scheme will place up to 130 new recruits into roles in the industry over the next seven weeks. This is a critical time for our industry. Hospitality continues to grow and yet we continue to struggle to find the necessary workers to fill the demand, says Restaurant Association CEO Marisa Bidois. It is important we find new ways to attract and train a new wave of recruits to sustain our industry for the future. Hospo Ready provides tailored job seeking assistance and support for people wanting to work in hospitality. The service is completely free and designed to easily connect job seekers with employers. It also supports employers to take on new recruits who may not have the required experience. Hospo Ready carefully matches jobseekers and employers to ensure a successful and long-term employment outcome by providing ongoing support to both employers and job seekers after employment commences. This could be additional training if required, or regular mentoring support. Hospo Ready promotes professionalism in the workplace and ensures all employers provide supportive work environments to their employees. Hospo Ready follows on the heels of the successful HospoStart programme, a joint initiative between the Ministry of Social Development and the Restaurant Association which trains job seekers into a new career in hospitality. The programme has trained and supported approximately 1000 workers into the industry since it launched in 2015 and continues to successfully link employers and employees in the industry. The Restaurant Association supports New Zealands diverse and creative hospitality businesses to deliver first class experiences to diners, operating as the link between good food and good business. Since its humble beginnings in 1972, it has worked to offer advice, help and assistance in every facet of the vibrant and diverse hospitality industry. The organisation now represents, advocates and cheerleads for more than 2500 hospitality businesses within New Zealand. It offers 24/7 advice and assistance on key industry issues, from property lease advice to wellness in the workplace. The Association also provides its members with industry-wide accreditation programs which set best practice standards and help them measure how theyre tracking. And it works in partnership with the Ministry of Social Development to deliver the Hospostart training programme. For more information go to www.hospoready.co.nz Increasing childhood immunisations is a focus in the Bay of Plenty during Aotearoa Immunisation Week because it is behind the national goal. Events including whanau fun days have been part of the week, running from May 27 to June 4, aimed at celebrating the importance of immunisations. Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty senior responsible officer immunisation and Covid-19 Brent Gilbert-De Rios said the organisation was particularly focussed on increasing childhood immunisation rates. We are behind where we need to be in order to protect our tamariki from vaccine-preventable diseases. Te Whatu Ora - Health New Zealands goal is to have 95 percent of eligible children fully immunised for their age. Data provided by Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty, formerly the Bay of Plenty District Health Board, showed 75 per cent of babies aged 8 months were fully immunised as of April 2023. For two-year-olds in the Bay of Plenty 78 per cent were fully immunised and 76 per cent of five year olds had been fully immunised as well. For Maori children the rates are much lower, 59 per cent of 8 months olds were fully immunised in the Bay of Plenty. Sixty-five per cent of Maori two-year-olds were fully vaccinated and 66 per cent of five-year-olds had been fully immunised as of April 2023. Te Manu Toroa whanau care group manager Debbi Muralt said Maori and Pasifika children were at high risk so needed to be immunised. Theyre at high risk because they [Maori and Pasifika people] tend to live in in whares with lots of people, including bubbies to the elderly, she said. You've got a wide range of people living in one house, trying to navigate the world at best of times without having to worry so much about getting sick. But unfortunately, if one goes down the whole lot can catch it. So [were] trying to get these kids vaccinated before that happens. Families enjoying Te Manu Toroas Whanau Day Out. Photo: Supplied. The community healthcare provider hosted a Whanau Day Out on Saturday aimed at increasing immunisations and connecting with the community. Muralt said the day was fantastic they offered health checks, immunisations and promoted their Pepi Ora Well Child, dental, mental health and addiction services. The prizes, giveaways, live music and childrens activities pulled the whanau in and saw more than 500 people attend, she said. The day was actually set up to increase visibility of Te Manu Toroa within the community. But at the same time, trying to increase our immunisation rates. Childhood diseases that had previously been eradicated were now popping their ugly heads back up, said Muralt. We are really trying to get the word out there and do some amazing drives to try and get whanau into the clinic so that we can start getting these little bubbies vaccinated again. It's a long, steady process, but we're not giving up. Asked what the reasons are that people are not getting immunised, Muralt said she didnt think it was a priority for people. With Covid, that word vaccination is almost in overdrive. Because everybody's tired of hearing about it, so they're almost fatigued by the word. The Te Manu Toroa team at the Whanau Day Out. Photo: Supplied. Gilbert-De Rios said: Immunisation rates both in the Bay, around Aotearoa and across the world have been falling, due in part to the ongoing effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. In response, we are strongly focussed on lifting rates both nationally and across the rohe. Aotearoa Immunisation Week, a week-long, nationwide push that aims to drive vaccine uptake ahead of winter, is one of the ways we are working with our healthcare and hauora partners to do this, he said. There are more than a dozen pop-up, walk-in and special immunisation events taking place across the rohe throughout the week thanks to the mahi of our partner vaccine and healthcare providers. And its easy and free to visit your local pharmacy or doctor to catch up too. We want more children, adults, whanau and communities to be protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. Bay of Plenty immunisation events can be found at: www.bopdhb.health.nz/immsweek Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The Caspian oil and Gas exhibition has been helping Azerbaijan to present its potential to international investors, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said in the appeal to the participants of the Baku Energy Week, Trend reports. "Its almost 30 years since 1994, the Caspian oil and Gas exhibition has been helping Azerbaijan to present its potential to international investors. Back in 1994, it was just the beginning of Heydar Aliyevs oil strategy. As it was already mentioned, this year we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founder of the independent Azerbaijan. And 1994 was not only the year of the first Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition, but also the year of signing the contract of the century, which changed completely the situation in our country, attracted investments, brought economic stability, and led to a more prosperous future of Azerbaijan. 1994 was the year when the 1st Karabakh war ended, signing a ceasefire agreement, just as 2-3 months after the contract of the century was signed," President Ilham Aliyev said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The spring session of the Azerbaijani Parliament has ended, Trend reports. Chairman of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) Sahiba Gafarova said that during the spring session, 14 meetings were held, and 91 laws were adopted. According to Gafarova, 72 laws were amended, and 18 international agreements were approved. For instance, according to the draft law "On the execution of the State Budget of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022", discussed at the plenary session of the Parliament, a total of 2.6 billion manat ($1.5 billion) were spent in 2022 on the restoration and reconstruction of the liberated territories of Azerbaijan [from Armenian occupation after Second Karabakh War]. Additional funds in the amount of 2.2 billion manat ($1.2 billion) are allocated from the state budget for 2023 in connection with the acceleration of construction, rehabilitation, and reconstruction work carried out in Azerbaijans Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur liberated from occupation. Following over a month of military action to liberate its territories from Armenian occupation from late Sept. to early Nov. 2020, Azerbaijan has pushed Armenia to sign the surrender document. A joint statement on the matter was made by the Azerbaijani president, Armenia's PM, and the president of Russia. Current Print Subscribers will be prompted to either login to their current site user account or to create a new one. A confirmation email will be sent when a new user account is created, which must be confirmed within three days in order to provide uninterrupted online access through your Print Subscription. Once the email address is confirmed please provide your Account Number to activate your Print Subscription Service. Manlius, N.Y. Three people - 18, 16, and 17 years old - who took an adult swan and four baby swans from the Manlius swan pond thought they were ducks, police said. The three killed Faye, the mother swan, and took the baby swans on Saturday, police said. Police have charged the three and recovered the baby swans. Manlius police held a news conference Wednesday at the village police station just a few hundred yards from the swan pond. Swans are an icon for the village. They have been featured in the village since 1905. The three told police they came between midnight and three a.m. on Saturday and hopped the fence, said Sgt. Ken Hatter, a spokesperson for the Manlius Police. A black metal fence surrounds the pond on Route 92 (Fayette Street) in the center of the village. Faye was nesting so they were able to hold her down and she didnt fight back, Hatter said. They decapitated her with a knife at the pond, he said after the news conference. The teens, who are friends who live near each other on Syracuses North Side and attend high school together, were unaware it was a swan, he said. They believed it was just a very large duck, Hatter said. They did not know it was a swan. They said they thought it was wild and were unaware it belonged to the village, Hatter said. They did not have any idea of the significance that the swans had on this community, he said. The teens took Faye home on Saturday and ate her with family and friends on Memorial Day, he said. The teens were hunting and one had a hunting license. The state Department of Environmental Conservation is investigating to see if more charges will be brought, he said. They werent hunting out of hunger, Hatter said. It wasnt because the teens had no food at home, he said. The police have conflicting information on if the teens were going to sell the babies, he said. One teen who worked at a store, Black Friday Bins in Shop City, said he took two baby swans to work then brought two home to raise as pets. A co-owner of Black Friday Bins said the store didnt know the babies were stolen swans and that three workers were fired. Two of the four stolen baby swans from Manlius were recovered from Black Friday Bins, a store in the town of Salina, May 30, 2023. (Provided Photo) The cygnets were recovered, two from the store and two from a home in Syracuse, he said. The three were charged with third-degree grand larceny, a felony; second-degree criminal mischief, a felony; fifth-degree conspiracy, a misdemeanor and third-degree criminal trespass, a misdemeanor. One of the group charged was Eman Hussan, 18, of Syracuse, police said. Police did not release the names of the younger teens. The 16- and 17-year-olds were released to their parents and Hussan was released without bail, Hatter said. Theyre feeling that what they did was wrong, Hatter said. Theyre definitely thinking that they should have not done what theyve done, Hatter said. The village is making changes to ensure it doesnt happen again, said Manlius Mayor Paul Whorrall. Cameras will be added to the pond with video streaming to the police department and public works department, Whorrall said. Luckily, the babies are in good health and will be back in the pond in a few weeks, he said. Weve had swans for over 100 years, were going to continue to have swans as part of this village, he said. Manny, one of the beloved swans from the Manlius swan pond, swims in the pond alone Tuesday, May 30, 2023. His mate, Faye, was killed over the weekend. Katrina Tulloch | ktulloch@syracuse.com Correction: An earlier version of this article said Faye was killed and the babies stolen early Memorial Day. Faye was killed and the babies stolen early on Saturday. They were reported missing on Memorial Day. Related article on Syracuse.com Faye, the mama swan taken from Manlius pond, was eaten on Memorial Day Co-owner of store where 2 Manlius baby swans found says we didnt know they were swans, 3 workers fired Beloved mama swan from Manlius killed, 16-year-old in custody, police say Staff writer Rylee Kirk covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, photo, question or comment? Reach her at 315-396-5961, on Twitter @kirk_rylee, or rkirk@syracuse.com. Syracuse, N.Y. -- A Syracuse man originally accused of attempted murder was sentenced to two years in prison Wednesday after the charges against him were significantly reduced. Shakeem Singleton, 24, previously pleaded guilty to second-degree attempted criminal possession of a weapon in exchange for a sentence of two years in state prison. He was sentenced Wednesday. Singleton and his sister Daja Worley, 20, were both originally indicted on attempted murder charges in connection with a 2021 incident in the 100 block of Bishop Avenue in Syracuse, according to an indictment filed in Onondaga County Court. Join NY Cannabis Insider at our next industry networking event on June 8 at Beak & Skiff. Tickets will sell out. New Yorks Office of Cannabis Management agreed to grant a cannabis retail license to Variscite NY One, Inc., as part of a settlement with the company, which sued the agency last year after being denied conditional licensure. The 10-page settlement, filed today in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York, also stipulates neither the state nor Variscite will seek further damages or legal fees from each other. Sign up for the NY Cannabis Insider Newsletter Enter your email address to get exclusive reporting on NY's cannabis market delivered to your inbox: The Parties agree that Plaintiff shall be awarded a general (not social equity/CAURD) adult use retail dispensary license in the first group of such licenses to be awarded, the settlement said. This settlement agreement and the actions taken pursuant hereto are not to be construed as any admission of wrongdoing or liability on the part of Defendants. Variscites federal lawsuit against the OCM began playing a prominent role in the states Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary program in November, when U.S. Northern District of New York Judge Gary Sharpe issued an injunction that prevented OCM from granting CAURD licenses to businesses in five regions. Sharpe narrowed the injunction in March, allowing CAURD licenses in all regions except for the Finger Lakes Variscites region of choice. When Variscite initially filed suit in September, the Michigan-based plaintiff complained that OCM found the company ineligible for a CAURD license because the company is 51% owned by Kenneth Gay, an individual who has no significant connection to New York and who has a cannabis conviction in Michigan. An individual named Jeffrey Jensen owns the other 49%. Join NY Cannabis Insider at Beak & Skiff on June 8, 2023, for an industry meetup. CAURD rules require an applicant must have been convicted of a cannabis crime in New York and have a significant presence here. This violates the Dormant Commerce Clause, the lawsuit argues, because the clause prohibits states from passing legislation that discriminates against or excessively burdens interstate commerce. New Yorks Cannabis Control Board unanimously approved the settlement in a Tuesday morning meeting. The action now greenlights OCM and CCB to start issuing CAURD licenses to applicants in the Finger Lakes, and guarantees Variscite will receive a general retail license as soon as regulators begin issuing them. While the Variscite suit was causing the OCM the most acute heartburn, the agency is still in litigation related to the CAURD program. A coalition of plaintiffs which includes some of New Yorks medical cannabis companies filed suit in March, asking a judge to compel state regulators to open up licensing for all retail dispensary applicants immediately. Join NY Cannabis Insider at our next industry networking event on June 8 at Beak & Skiff. Tickets will sell out. Dan Livingston is the executive director of CANY and a former city council member in Binghamton. He answered eight simple questions for NY Cannabis Insiders People to know series. Should you or someone you know be featured in our series? Fill out this form and we may publish your story. What is your position and what do you/your company do in the cannabis space? Im the executive director of the Cannabis Association of NY (CANY). I lead the largest cannabis trade organization in New York State. Our association has almost 550 members stretched across NYS, representing every link in the supply chain. While our origins as an organization are rooted in cultivation and processing which still makes up a third of our overall membership the fastest-growing group of members in CANY are retailers, making up over 25% of our membership. Sign up for the NY Cannabis Insider Newsletter Enter your email address to get exclusive reporting on NY's cannabis market delivered to your inbox: CANY rose to prominence during COVID, and has largely existed as a nexus of software tools, keeping everyone in regular communication and coordinating efforts across the state. We are perhaps best known for our policy development and advocacy, which is directed by our board of directors and member committees. Over the past year and a half, the association has established a growing presence in communities across the state thanks to the organizing efforts of our regional committees. We host networking and educational events across the state every month. We maintain a commitment to offering educational content for free to support business development in an industry that is largely precluded from traditional business development services because of the federal status of cannabis. How long have you worked in the cannabis space? Four and a half years. What did you do before you were involved in the cannabis industry? I was lead on a high-level digital volunteer coordination team for the Bernie Sanders Campaign for President in 2016, and in 2020, I was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention for the Bernie Sanders Campaign. I was a candidate for the office of Broome County Clerk in 2017, and in 2018 I was elected to represent the 2nd District on the Binghamton City Council. I have worked extensively in the food and agriculture sectors, as well. In 2008 2009, I worked as a co-founder of the Binghamton Urban Farm. In 2011, I joined the team as a principal at Wholeshare a Silicon Valley tech startup operating a novel marketplace for local and organic food. Before that, I received years of training as a conflict mediator. I then went on to aid in the creation of training curricula and implementation of training protocols to build whole conflict mediation programs in large institutions throughout New York State. What led you to the cannabis industry? After winning my election for Binghamton City Council in 2018, I took a small contract to help manage the internal communications and engage in secretarial work for the New York Cannabis Growers and Processors Association (now CANY). This work led me into the industry, though I have always maintained a practical distance from the substantive policy work of the association; preferring to focus on organizing people in the industry with far more at stake in the outcomes of state and local policy. This has allowed me to focus more directly on the community organizing work that has characterized my career, and which remains my passion and chief proficiency. Do you have any advice for someone looking to get into the NY weed industry? Slow is smooth; smooth is fast. When we move quickly to make up for lost time, its not uncommon to lose focus even for an instant, and make a mistake that can decimate the advantage of speed. Sometimes, the wisest course of action is to move just as fast as will allow you to maintain focus and build strong, resilient systems. This legal industry will be around for decades to come, and the legacy market has a generations-long head start. If youre expecting NYS to move quickly, consider the full-scope of the legalization project, and consider how NYS has historically developed new policies before making big moves with your business. When our association first started in January of 2019, we scored a huge victory in the first legislative session with the passage of the Hemp Extracts Law. This law was designed to transform the hemp and CBD industries in NYS. Even though it was only modifying an existing program in an existing state department, it took over two and a half years for the final regulations to be implemented from the original bill. The project that NYS has undertaken with legalization involves the creation of a wholly new state office, including hiring and training all of the staff, development of internal rules and procedures, and the creation of a massive regulatory infrastructure. Any casual student of NYS government or a practiced observer of the full rollout of cannabis policy in NY from the Compassionate Care Act through today will tell you that NYS government moves slowly. My advice to aspiring NY cannabis business operators is to understand, to the extent that you can, how NYS government works. If you manage to secure a license, you will be among a fortunate few who have elected to operate within perhaps the most heavily regulated agricultural value chain in the state. Whether you understand how NYS government works now, or after youve started your business, I can assure you that the long-term survival of your business depends on having a functional understanding of this system. What do you think the NY cannabis ecosystem will look like in five years? CANY was formed to ensure that licensed operators have a seat at the tables where decisions are made that impact the well-being of their businesses. In broad terms, we have been organizing against the biggest corporate actors who lobby for policy that prevents small and midscale businesses from even existing in the industry. As someone who has been organizing and occasionally fighting against corporate monopolies for much of my life, I recognize that on a long enough timeline these efforts have a high likelihood of failure. The wealth and power consolidated by corporate cannabis allows these companies to act with a subtlety and patience that is inaccessible to real entrepreneurs. As much as I know about the recent history of cannabis policy in NY and around the country, I admit that I didnt predict we would be where we are today when the association started almost five years ago. Every year we are presented with a new set of challenges, but in some ways whats coming is already known. Over the next five years, we will continue to witness a struggle between the out-of-state corporate oligopoly that dominates markets across the country, and the NYS businesspeople who see this legal industry as their birthright. Who will prevail in this struggle? Its hard to say. What I do know is this: every minute, every week, every year that the NYS market doesnt succumb to corporate dominance means that theres an opportunity for real people to see tangible benefits from operating in this industry. Do you use cannabis? If so, whats your favorite method (flower, dabs, edibles, tinctures, etc.), and why? My favorite method is to roll my own joint, and smoke it preferably with friends, but also with strangers. Who should contact you, and whats the best method (i.e. email, phone number, LinkedIn handle, etc.) Business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can contact me at dan@cany.org Box Score Rochester, NY The Syracuse Mets struggled offensively on Wednesday, scoring just one run as they fell to the Rochester Red Wings (Triple-A Washington Nationals) on a warm afternoon at Innovative Field. By the end of the ballgame, the temperature had reached 90 degrees at the ballpark. The Red Wings have now won each of the first two games in the six-game series. Rochester (24-27) pulled away early via the long ball, scoring five times in the first two innings to take a 5-0 lead. In the first, Derek Hill walked, and then Carter Kieboom smacked a two-run home run to power the Red Wings to a 2-0 lead. In the second, the home team quickly added on when Drew Millas and Erick Mejia hit back-to-back homers to start the inning for a 4-0 edge. Then, Richie Martin drew a walk and sprinted all the way home when Hill lined a single to centerfield and Lorenzo Cedrola misplayed the ball, allowing Martin to score on the play to make it a 5-0 ballgame. From there, Syracuses (20-33) starting pitcher settled in as Joey Lucchesi did not allow a run in his final three innings of work. The left-hander from California did not allow a hit to 13 of the final 14 batters he faced, eventually striking out five batters (all swinging) in his outing. The unfortunate news for the Syracuse Mets is they ran into a buzzsaw on the pitching rubber from the Rochester Red Wings all afternoon long. Joan Adon began the day with a flourish, tossing six scoreless innings while allowing just three hits in his excellent start. From there, the bullpen held the line for the Red Wings. Alberto Baldonado, Tyler Danish, and Jose Ferrer worked an inning each in the final three innings, allowing just one run to ensure the Red Wings would walk away winners. The Mets did have their chances to break the scoring seal in a big way, however they did not take advantage. Syracuse left seven runners on base in the final five innings, including multiple runners on base in the sixth and seventh inning. Leaving runners on base has been a thorn in Syracuses side so far this week in Rochester. In Mondays series-opening, the Mets left 13 runners on base. Rochester added their final tally of the afternoon in the bottom of the eighth. Mejia singled to start the frame but remained stuck on first base as the next two batters recorded outs. Jake Alu, however, came up clutch for the Red Wings. Alu lined a double down the left-field line to plate Mejia for a 6-0 Red Wings advantage. In the top of the ninth, Syracuse finally got on the board. After Luis Guillorme flied out to start the inning, Jaylin Davis walked and then moved to second on a Jonathan Arauz single. The next batter, Nick Meyer, slapped a pinch-hit single into left field to plate Davis and make it a 6-1 game. However, any dreams of a dramatic Syracuse comeback were snuffed out when the next batter, Lorenzo Cedrola, grounded into a game-ending double play. Syracuse continues its six-game series against Rochester on Thursday night. Right-hander Denyi Reyes is scheduled to start on the mound for the Mets, opposed by right-hander Cory Abbott for the Red Wings. Syracuse lawmakers are poised to vote on a new citywide zoning code they hope will help spark widespread development to revive city neighborhoods and counteract an ongoing housing crisis. The new code, dubbed ReZone Syracuse, is intended to make zoning more consistent and predictable for developers and to diversify the kinds of housing allowed. During a final committee meeting on ReZone Wednesday, several Common Council members expressed hopes that it would contribute to an urban resurgence in Syracuse. Nows the time, right? said Councilor Jimmy Monto. We want people to stay in the city of Syracuse. Lets do it. Councilor Pat Hogan, who chairs the economic development committee, said developers have been waiting and waiting' for ReZone to be implemented. The Common Council is expected to vote on ReZone at their June 20 meeting, Hogan said. But first the public will have a final chance to comment on the document. The council will host a public hearing at 5:30 p.m. June 7 at City Hall, 233 E. Washington St. City planners have been working on ReZone for more than six years. Its the first comprehensive rewrite of the zoning code in six decades. ReZone comprises two major elements: a revised set of zoning regulations describing what is allowed in various zones; and a city map that assigns a zone classification to each parcel. In a change intended to spur more housing options, the new zoning rules would, for the first time, allow row houses and accessory dwelling units (also known as granny flats) in areas previously limited to single-family homes. About 3,500 of the more than 40,000 city parcels were assigned new zoning. Some property owners are not happy about the changes. Among the vocal opponents of the new zoning map are some homeowners from Lafayette Road, near the Nob Hill Apartments complex, just south from East Seneca Turnpike. They are fighting the plan to change part of the street from R-1, which is predominantly single-family homes, to R-4, which allows apartment houses up to 50 feet tall. The previous public hearing on ReZone, held March 28 by the Syracuse Planning Commission, drew more than 50 people. The planning commission subsequently voted 3-1 to recommend approval to the Common Council. Read more: Syracuse redefines what makes a home: granny flats, row houses and other affordable housing The future of Marshall Street? Concept shows high-rise building where shops now stand Changes to obsolete Syracuse laws could spur Westcott project, shape citys future Do you have a news tip or a story idea? Contact reporter Tim Knauss: email | Twitter | | 315-470-3023. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. An extraordinary session of the Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament) will be held, Chair of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova said, Trend reports. Gafarova noted that an extraordinary meeting will be held in June, and 83 deputies have applied in this regard. To note, earlier the spring session of the Parliament ended, during which 14 meetings were held, and 91 laws were adopted. Moreover, according to Gafarova, 72 laws were amended, and 18 international agreements were approved. During this session the draft law "On execution of state budget of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022" was adopted in the first reading. The draft has been submitted for discussion at today's meeting of the Parliament. After discussions, the draft was put to the vote and adopted in the first reading. According to the draft law, 82.8 million manat ($48.7 million) was allocated for the design and construction of new residential complexes in Azerbaijan's liberated territories [from Armenian occupation after the second Karabakh war] in 2022. Bolton, N.Y. A man from California died over the weekend while swimming in Lake George in the Adirondacks, troopers said. Kumar Hemant, of Los Angeles, was swimming around 3:15 p.m. Saturday near West Dollar Island in Bolton when he became distressed, the New York State Police said in a news release. He went underwater, troopers said, and did not resurface. The North Queensbury Volunteer Fire Co., Bolton EMS and the Bolton Volunteer Fire Department rushed to Lake George to search for Hemant. They found the missing man about 20 feet below the surface, troopers said, and pulled him out of the water. Responders tried to save Hemant, but could not revive him. He was 27 years old. Although troopers said Hemants death appears accidental, the investigation continues. READ MORE Historic Adirondack inn a total loss after fire, police say Teen drowns while swimming in Upstate NY lake; underwater drone used to find body DNA helps Ithaca police solve 1987 cold case of the murder of Cornell student Soozan Baxter, of New York, grew up in Manlius. She is a 1993 graduate of Fayetteville-Manlius High School. Small-town charm comes to life in Manlius because of its legendary swan pond. American flags adorn its fence during the summer holidays, while pine wreaths decorate it during the December holiday season. It serves as the backdrop for the annual Memorial Day and July Fourth parades. The Swan Pond serves as the heart of Manlius and an anchor to the communitys outdoor ice-skating rink, many recreation fields, the firehouse, the police department, and library all found within a stones throw. No childhood summer is complete without experiencing the magical visit to Sno-Top and the swan pond. And while the warmer seasons kick off on St. Patricks Day with the soft-serves opening day, Memorial Day weekend brings a burst of energy to this small town, marking the unofficial start of summer. It is standard practice to wait in an endless ice cream line that somehow moves quickly, chat with friends, get a treat, and then walk around the swan pond. And what a sight the swan pond is. Its king and queen swim around in their regal ways, and each spring usually by the third week of May they delight us with babies. Upon the eggs hatching, the cygnets start to walk and swim; watching them grow is a favorite pastime for all. Year after year, this ritual leaves us awestruck, as if seeing baby swans for the first time. In the most basic way, the swan pond and its residents represent unfettered love. A place where families gather. Where friends meet. Where first dates occur. Where accomplishments are celebrated. Its hard not to see the parallels of the cygnets flourishing over a season and the same arc of so many of us who came of age in this beloved town. Its no surprise that heartbreak ensued when residents and friends of Manlius learned that Faye, the beautiful mother swan, was brutally murdered, and her four babies were stolen. In a moment, the entire swan family was snatched from stately Manny a husband and father. His being left behind is additionally unimaginable and merciless; how can we not be bereft for him? The lack of humanity by these cold-blooded teenagers is shocking. Even more galling are the lackluster charges: third-degree grand larceny, second-degree criminal mischief, fifth-degree conspiracy and third-degree criminal trespass. But what will be the most maddening is the inevitable blame game for the alleged actions of these teens who are on the verge of adulthood. The charges are toothless: the swans deserve better and we deserve better. And regardless of the punishments that may ensue, this inconceivable violence was an attack on the swans, a small town and what is right in the world. The barbarity of the situation gives us pause on the tug between good and evil. Maybe because visiting the swan pond is rooted in simplicity, which sometimes feels like a vanishing way of life. Maybe because the attack is a scary reminder of our fragility, as though any of us could be assaulted, too. Maybe because in an ever-changing world which can be fraught with stress and complications, joy can be derived from the simplest pleasures like watching the swan family. It is hard to imagine a Manlius summer without the swans. In an effort to confront the worst of humanity, lets lean into the best of it. Make 2023 the summer of random acts of kindness if you hold Manlius in your heart. Its for you, Faye, we will say as we practice patience when service is slow, let someone go ahead of you, and treat the next person in line to a Twinklecoat ice cream treat at Sno-Top. May her memory continue to spread smiles and faith. Its the least we can do for Faye. Related: Faye, the mama swan taken from Manlius pond, was eaten on Memorial Day Co-owner of store where 2 Manlius baby swans found says we didnt know they were swans, 3 workers fired Beloved mama swan from Manlius killed, 16-year-old in custody, police say On May 13, the Niagara County Sheriffs Office contacted a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation police officer (ECO) for help in identifying a dismembered hand. At a glance, the half-decayed appendage appeared to be human, but after checking with a DEC biologist, the ECO determined the mystery hand was actually a paw from a black bear. The following reports are excerpted from DEC: DEC police officer Shaw with a turkey confiscated from a poacher (left); and a turkey decoy used by DEC police to snare turkey poachers illegally shooting birds from the road (right). On May 7, a hunter shot at a turkey on state land, then chased it to a nearby home and fired two more shots. Responding to a complaint from the homeowner, an ECO interviewed the hunter, who said he didnt think it was a big deal because the bird had only flopped over the property line after hed shot it. But the ECO found a shell casing indicating the hunter was approximately 225 feet from the house when he fired the shots. The hunter got ticketed for illegally taking a turkey, trespassing, and shooting within 500 feet of a residence. On May 5, a driver passing by Bear Spring Mountain Wildlife Management Area in Delaware County saw a turkey and blasted it with a 12-guage shotgun from inside his vehicle. He sped off after realizing the turkey was actually a decoy. The hunter who owned the decoy provided ECOs with a description of the vehicle. Two days later ECOs followed the vehicle to a nearby residence. At first the driver denied shooting the fake turkey, despite having a 12-guage shotgun and other evidence in his vehicle, but he eventually owned up to it and was ticketed for possessing a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle and hunting with the aid of a motor vehicle. ECOs conducted their own fake turkey detail in early May in the town of Niles, hoping to snare turkey poachers. Their trap worked when a man well-known to ECOs for frequent violations of environmental conservation law pulled up and blasted the decoy from the drivers seat of his pickup truck while his 14-year-old son watched from the passenger seat. ECOs ticketed the man for possessing a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle and shooting from a public highway. Additional charges may follow. On May 9, a seal got entangled in a gill net on Little Gull Island, Suffolk County. DEC police brought it to the New York Marine Rescue Center in Riverhead for treatment and eventual release back into the wild. On May 9, a seal got entangled in a gill net on Little Gull Island, Suffolk County. Two ECOs motored out to the island, captured the seal, and brought it to the New York Marine Rescue Center in Riverhead for treatment of its wounds and eventual release back into the wild. ECOs from across the state conducted fishing compliance checks over the past several weeks. On May 2, they seized 27 illegally caught fish in Nassau County; on May 7, while patrolling a Suffolk County boat launch, they ticketed a boat captain for possessing over-the-limit weakfish and a black sea bass; and on May 15, ECOs on foot chased a Hudson River angler who tried to escape on a bicycle. Officers issued the angler tickets for possessing a striped bass over the legal slot size and disobeying the lawful order of a Conservation Officer. The team also checked three boats and wrote similar tickets for striped bass over the slot size. A 15-year-old riding an ATV with friends in Warren County got separated from the group on May 13. ECOs helped search for the lost teen, who had gotten his ATV stuck and called 911. ECOs bushwhacked through a wetland to reach him and guide him back to his parents. DEC police captured an injured raven in Schoharie County and brought it to Friends of the Feathered and Furry wildlife center for treatment and evaluation. An injured raven caught the attention of Schoharie County residents on May 16. Unable to fly, the bird hopped and glided away from ECOs attempting to catch it. Residents joined the effort and helped push the raven to an open area where an ECO finally captured it and brought it to Friends of the Feathered and Furry wildlife center for treatment and evaluation. On April 23, while responding to a firearms complaint in the town of New Haven, an ECO observed three men standing at a table containing five long guns. The men said they were target shooting. The ECO noted that they were well within the 500-foot limit for discharging firearms near dwellings, and that two of the long guns had characteristics that made them unlawful under the NY SAFE Act. He charged the trio with discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling. New York State Police arrested the man who owned the two guns with unpermitted modifications and charged him with several misdemeanor and felony charges related to the SAFE Act. Sign up for the CNY Outdoors Newsletter Enter your email address to get weekly updates on CNY outdoors news delivered to your inbox: READ MORE DEC police pluck possums holed up in engine compartment, ticket turkey poachers - newyorkupstate.com DEC police ticket Upstate NY man for illegally killing bear, nab nuisance raccoon, save swan - syracuse.com DEC police officer uses hoodie to save bear cubs stranded near Upstate NY railroad tracks - syracuse.com DEC police rescue two deer that broke through ice on Jamesville Reservoir - syracuse.com Steve Featherstone covers the outdoors for The Post-Standard, syracuse.com and NYUP.com. Contact him at sfeatherstone@syracuse.com or on Twitter @featheroutdoors. You can also follow along with all of our outdoors content at newyorkupstate.com/outdoors/ or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/upstatenyoutdoors. NEW YORK (AP) Ten months before Donald Trump is scheduled to stand trial in his historic New York City criminal case, Manhattan prosecutors are turning the former presidents words against him in a tug of war over precisely where he will be tried. Trumps lawyers have spent weeks angling to have the hush money case moved to federal court. The Manhattan district attorneys office responded Tuesday that the case should remain in the state court where it originated, citing old Trump tweets that they say undermine his lawyers jurisdictional challenge. Trump, a Republican, pleaded not guilty in state court last month to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to money paid to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, for orchestrating hush money payments during the 2016 campaign to bury allegations of extramarital sexual encounters. Prosecutors allege that Trumps company, the Trump Organization, falsely logged the Cohen payments as being for a legal retainer that didnt exist. Trump, the leading contender for next years Republican presidential nomination, is slated to go on trial in state court March 25, 2024, in the heat of the primaries. Trumps lawyers argue he cant be tried in state court because some of the alleged conduct occurred in 2017 while he was president, including checks he purportedly wrote while sitting in the Oval Office. They argue the case belongs in federal court because it involves important federal questions including alleged violations of federal election law. The DAs office, in its response, pointed to tweets from 2018 in which Trump said he was paying Cohen a monthly retainer and that Cohen was being reimbursed for a $130,000 private agreement the lawyer made with porn actor Stormy Daniels to keep her from speaking about an alleged affair. Trump tweeted that the payments had nothing to do with his campaign. Prosecutors also cited a statement in which Rudy Giuliani, Trumps personal lawyer at the time, said the Daniels payment was made to resolve a personal and false allegation in order to protect Trumps family. Ultimately it will be Manhattan federal judge Alvin Hellerstein who decides whether to seize control of the case or keep it in state court. likely after the two sides duke it out at a hearing on the issue June 27. Such transfer requests are rarely granted, although Trumps is unprecedented because hes the first ex-president charged with a crime. In the meantime, the case will continue in state court. Matthew Colangelo, a senior counsel to Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg, urged Hellerstein to keep the case as is, arguing in court papers Tuesday that Trumps lawyers had failed to meet a high legal bar. Trumps lawyers argue that he must be tried in federal court because, as commander-in-chief, he was a federal officer. Colangelo contended that Trumps legal team hasnt satisfied any of three grounds for moving the case under that standard and questioned whether it would even apply to Trump. Over the years, he wrote, courts have debated whether the legal definition of federal officer applies to a president or only to other members of the government. Trumps charges pertained to efforts to conceal criminal conduct that largely occurred before his inauguration, Colangelo wrote. That includes alleged violations of New York laws regulating record-keeping at private businesses laws that have no federal equivalent, he added. Trumps alleged criminal conduct had no connection to his official duties and responsibilities but instead arose from his unofficial actions relating to his private businesses and pre-election conduct, Colangelo wrote in a 40-page filing. The Trump legal teams inability to connect his conduct to his official duties negates any potential defense he might invoke, such as presidential immunity, Colangelo wrote. In addition to Trump and Giulianis public statements, prosecutors on Tuesday cited secret grand jury material including unspecified exhibits, a court order and a document obtained by a grand jury subpoena. That evidence was filed under seal. Manhattans state and federal courthouses are just a block apart, but where Trumps trial is held could impact how it plays out. The Manhattan DAs office, which conducts most of its business in state court, would still prosecute either way, but Trump could gain an advantage in federal court with a broader and more politically diverse jury pool drawing from the New York City suburbs in addition to heavily Democratic Manhattan. Manhattan federal prosecutors previously investigated and charged only Cohen, who pleaded guilty to violating federal campaign finance law in connection with the hush money payments and is a key witness in the state case against Trump. Trump sued Cohen last month, accusing him of vast reputational harm for talking publicly about the payments. Cohens lawyer, Lanny Davis, accused Trump of using and abusing the judicial system as a form of harassment and intimidation and said the lawsuit wouldnt deter Cohens cooperation with prosecutors. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Azerbaijan wants to be among the front runners when it comes to the area of renewables, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said in the appeal to the participants of the Baku Energy Week, Trend reports. "And Im glad to see that more companies who are involved in renewable sources of energy production are present at our event and, I am sure, as the time passes, the number of this companies will be more and more. So, we started building the oil pipeline, and investing with our partners in oil fields, then gas pipeline and gas fields. The Southern Gas Corridor is our joint historical achievement with 3 500 kilometers of integrated pipeline system, which is an important tool to provide energy security and energy diversification," President Ilham Aliyev said. The Taos News delivered to your Taos County address every week for a full year! We offer our lowest mail rates to zip codes in the county. Click Here to See if you Qualify. Plan includes unlimited website access and e-edition print replica online. Your auto pay plan will be conveniently renewed at the end of the subscription period. You may cancel at anytime. sukiwa Senior - BHPian Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: pune Posts: 2,214 Thanked: 2,052 Times Bike review Styling, design, features: Suzukis arent going to win beauty pagents except for their few Superbikes. In this case, front is better than rear with beak as most attractive element. I feel this bike should have been just named SX250 rather than adding V-strom, kind of dilutes pedigree of bigger V-strom. I was initially of the opinion that this contraption is only meant for cost-conscious country like India, was surprised that same model has been launched in Australia as well in 2023. Twin-cylinder engine model exists in Europe. Although that model maynt make the cut for V-strom badge, however it at least has twin cylinder engine. Many aspects have been carried over from 250cc Suzuki siblings. Part sharing is good in the platform, however Suzuki India should have worked on both suspension. Getting the ADV look is correct. However, kind of roads that Indian cities have now mandate plusher suspension. In this yellow colour, front and rear section are well separated and make it noticable. Blue letters and lines add a nice touch. Photo of rear wheel shows mounting for center stand, however Suzuki hasnt created a longer center stand for SX250. Console greets you this way Bluetooth: Notification on console is good addition, I have enabled notification only for voice calls and SMS. I use this almost on every ride. In terms of connection, I have noticed that if I keep Suzuki app open on screen, Bluetooth connection gets established quickly. If I stop and switch off engine in between, Bluetooth connection persists as long as Suzuki app is still in foreground on phone. Navigation: I find mapmyindia bit different than Google maps. Instead of business outlet, I need to search building for that outlet. If that building isnt mapped in mapmyindia then have to rely on Google maps without any on-console navigation. I have used navigation only 3-4 times so far. Keeping bike specifications for archival purpose. [ATTACH=ds250-36.pdf]2456470[/ATTACH] Breaking-in: Bit boring to keep it below 5000 rpm in initial 800 Kms. Overtaking within suburb on inclines used to reach 5k rpm limit. Suzuki has different modes (not riding modes) with rpm limiter. I had changed mode to flashing LED with limit on 5000 rpm. Default rpm limiter from factory is set to 7000 rpm. Increments in steps of 500 on rpm limiter Wonder why Suzuki doesnt tell dealers to keep this as default mode at time of bike delivery for appropriate breaking-in; however, that would mean additional training and perhaps owners calling to dealer on blinking LED. Plus if default rpm limiter is 7000, why split breaking-in to 5000 rpm till 800 Kms and later to 7000 rpm till 1600 Kms. After 800 Kms on odo, I changed rpm limiter to 7000 till odo crossed 1600 Kms. Post 1600 Kms on odo, rpm limiter was set to 10,000. Ride, handling and performance: Moving from standstill isnt an issue, keeping it below speed limits on internal roads within housing societies and office premises is. I generally keep low/no throttle in such cases. My usage is 70:30 for Highways Vs City. Within City suburbs, 3rd or 4th gear gets used mostly and I get a feeling similar to RE classic of chugging along without any strain. On highways, its quite easy to reach highway speeds, much faster than my previous Karizma. Overtaking doesnt need much planning; I downshift only when I have to move forward rapidly. Cruising at 100kmph is just beyond 7000 rpm in 6th gear. Compared to clip-on handlebar of Karizma, straight handlebar on SX250 is a huge change for me. It also makes it easier for me to keep neutral body position in corners compared to upper body lean I used to have on Karizma. Triple clamp offset is quite tight, steering axis and forks arent too far. This kind of trail makes this bike really nimble. Exhaust note, Engine heat, Cooling: Exhaust note is bit mild, so forget about waking up any neighbours or grab attention on highways. Kind of understated movement under the wraps. I havent noticed engine heat at all within city usage. My Karizma used to show up heat for few minutes if highway ride was followed quickly by a suburb ride. Both have oil cooling, however SX250 fares better than my previous Karizma. I have a problem with exhaust angle, my right heel touches it as I have habit of resting ball of foot on footpeg. I feel this is mostly due to part sharing in 250cc Suzuki line-up. Footpeg is also too thick, more so when seen with rear footpeg. Clutch, Gearbox: Clutch isnt exactly light; it shows its presence while riding in city for more than an hour. Light spring action of Slipper clutch could have helped here. I have changed habit to downshift lazily (also influence of Innova), so slipper clutch isnt missed much. Gearshifts are quite smooth. Ugly ghost/phantom neutral shows up when one is non-committal. Light touches arent welcome, it has to be firm upshift/downshift. Slotting into neutral isnt a problem although its easier to shift to neutral from 2nd than 1st gear. Fuel economy: With my regular usage of 70% highways, I get 40 to 42 kmpl. Maximum that I have seen is 44.7 Kmpl. Economy shown on console isnt much higher than tankful method. Only once it happened to show 35.5 Kmpl (case of high revving) whereas tankful turned out to be 40.1 Kmpl. My Karizma used to deliver 45 Kmpl consistently. Rides to Konkan used to get completed in single full tank(15 ltr) on Karizma, SX250 will demand a fuel fill on return journey. Fuel indicator has 6 bars, left most bar starts blinking at around 360-370 Kms mark. I fill up at next available HP/BP fuel station which fills up 10.5-11 liters. Console also has additional extreme low fuel blinking; I am yet to test it. Tyres, wheels: Alloy wheels was a must for me, all my vehicles have it as a standard fitment. Good thing in this alloy design is that tubeless valve is located off-center and that makes life easier while filling air in tyres. I would have liked the valve to have a 90 degrees bend, however thats not a norm so far. I dont have much faith on MRF tyres and wont use it beyond 1.5-2 years. These tyres are already skidding in parking spaces at different premises. Grip was felt wanting on few fast corners on NH48 section near Pune. Sipes are so wide that sometimes small stones get stuck leading to unbalance. It is very likely that I would shift to full road-biased tyres on next change. Braking: For my anticipated braking and speed control via throttle, I find current Bybre braking to be adequate. Even in emergency situation once on highway, braking was spot-on without making me feel uneasy. I haven't noticed effect of ABS yet. Odo & Speedo error: On regular commute, I noticed that odo is showing more distance than pre-pandemic. I knew that due to Metro and Chandani chowk diversions, some distance has increased., but this bit beyond. Thats when I compared trip distances on my Innova and SX250 on multiple days. SX250 shows 5.7% more distance than my Innova. I also compared same with Nephews Tiger 800 and SX250 showed 3.9% more distance. Even on Speedo comparison with Tiger 800, SX 250 shows 73 whereas Tiger was on 70 and 84 on SX 250, Tiger on 80. Both times, Tiger 800 was put on cruise control and I was running parallel to it for some distance. Suspension: 41mm front fork offers 120mm travel same as Gixxer 250. For my kind of usage on pothole filled broken roads, its a non-issue. I havent felt suspension bottoming out. This photo shows travel markings on front fork, it measures 100 mm. Even if dust seal gets added, travel is at 110mm, still has some mm of travel left. Either spring is stiff to not flex enough for 120mm travel OR I dont dare to jump bike much. On my regular commute, I come across a section of around 4kms having 23 speed-breakers. This leads to many occasions of long queue of vehicles. I have countered this with doing bit of off-roading sometimes even standing up. Firm suspension also helps here in providing stability and never a feeling of losing control. In 2 years, when I would change front fork oil, I may also experiment with fork oil weight and possibly fork preload adjusters. Rear monoshock offers preload adjustment. Within a week of getting the bike, I worked on measuring static sag for my weight. All distances measured from a point on axle and a point near rear rack. Reading A is bike off the ground, Reading B is bike with wheel on ground whereas Reading C is with Rider on bike, wheel obviously on ground. Rider weight: 77Kgs Spring is stiff, static sag doesnt increase too much even after moving to softest setting. While in stock position, static sag is fine for entry level track learning but not for street riding. I used bike in position 1 till for around 700 Kms and wanted to change as soon as I could. In that position, accelerating makes you feel that rear is way too behind and on turns rear wants to step out at every opportunity. On one of the rides to a nearby fort, used C-spanner from Interceptor toolkit of Surja to move to position 2 and still havent changed it. Riding Gear: I almost have most riding gear thats needed regularly. In 2021, I had updated my helmet from SMK twister to Current riding gear Jacket: 2016 Aspida Helios mesh jacket (updated with D30 level 2 armor) Helmet: HJC i70 Gloves: RE Blemish(summer), RE Spiti(winter) Knee guards: Zandona level 2 Riding pant: Tourmaster venture overpant Riding boots: Solace & Woodland I got the Suzuki jacket after 1.5 months of bike purchase. It comes with internal rain and winter layers. Armor is pretty basic, back armor didnt have foam removed from punched holes. Neck has a Velcro locking which irritates against skin or rubs against balaclava. My jacket didnt have zip runner closed on top, had do a jugaad with a sewing thread. Jacket looks good to match with bike colour and good to use in winters whereas it was quite sweaty for me in Summer (reverted to using my older Aspida mesh jacket). Conclusion: This bike mostly suits those who want to go farther at a faster pace and not necessarily off-road. Huge thanks to BHPian Surjaonwheelz for shooting in-motion photos by sitting as rearward pillion on Tiger 800, he also helped in reviewing content for these posts. Suzukis arent going to win beauty pagents except for their few Superbikes. In this case, front is better than rear with beak as most attractive element.I feel this bike should have been just named SX250 rather than adding V-strom, kind of dilutes pedigree of bigger V-strom. I was initially of the opinion that this contraption is only meant for cost-conscious country like India, was surprised that same model has been launched in Australia as well in 2023. Twin-cylinder engine model exists in Europe. Although that model maynt make the cut for V-strom badge, however it at least has twin cylinder engine.Many aspects have been carried over from 250cc Suzuki siblings. Part sharing is good in the platform, however Suzuki India should have worked on both suspension. Getting the ADV look is correct. However, kind of roads that Indian cities have now mandate plusher suspension.In this yellow colour, front and rear section are well separated and make it noticable. Blue letters and lines add a nice touch.Photo of rear wheel shows mounting for center stand, however Suzuki hasnt created a longer center stand for SX250.Console greets you this way: Notification on console is good addition, I have enabled notification only for voice calls and SMS. I use this almost on every ride. In terms of connection, I have noticed that if I keep Suzuki app open on screen, Bluetooth connection gets established quickly. If I stop and switch off engine in between, Bluetooth connection persists as long as Suzuki app is still in foreground on phone.: I find mapmyindia bit different than Google maps. Instead of business outlet, I need to search building for that outlet. If that building isnt mapped in mapmyindia then have to rely on Google maps without any on-console navigation. I have used navigation only 3-4 times so far.Keeping bike specifications for archival purpose.[ATTACH=ds250-36.pdf]2456470[/ATTACH]: Bit boring to keep it below 5000 rpm in initial 800 Kms. Overtaking within suburb on inclines used to reach 5k rpm limit. Suzuki has different modes (not riding modes) with rpm limiter. I had changed mode to flashing LED with limit on 5000 rpm. Default rpm limiter from factory is set to 7000 rpm.Increments in steps of 500 on rpm limiterWonder why Suzuki doesnt tell dealers to keep this as default mode at time of bike delivery for appropriate breaking-in; however, that would mean additional training and perhaps owners calling to dealer on blinking LED. Plus if default rpm limiter is 7000, why split breaking-in to 5000 rpm till 800 Kms and later to 7000 rpm till 1600 Kms.After 800 Kms on odo, I changed rpm limiter to 7000 till odo crossed 1600 Kms. Post 1600 Kms on odo, rpm limiter was set to 10,000.: Moving from standstill isnt an issue, keeping it below speed limits on internal roads within housing societies and office premises is. I generally keep low/no throttle in such cases. My usage is 70:30 for Highways Vs City. Within City suburbs, 3rd or 4th gear gets used mostly and I get a feeling similar to RE classic of chugging along without any strain. On highways, its quite easy to reach highway speeds, much faster than my previous Karizma. Overtaking doesnt need much planning; I downshift only when I have to move forward rapidly. Cruising at 100kmph is just beyond 7000 rpm in 6th gear.Compared to clip-on handlebar of Karizma, straight handlebar on SX250 is a huge change for me. It also makes it easier for me to keep neutral body position in corners compared to upper body lean I used to have on Karizma.Triple clamp offset is quite tight, steering axis and forks arent too far. This kind of trail makes this bike really nimble.: Exhaust note is bit mild, so forget about waking up any neighbours or grab attention on highways. Kind of understated movement under the wraps.I havent noticed engine heat at all within city usage. My Karizma used to show up heat for few minutes if highway ride was followed quickly by a suburb ride. Both have oil cooling, however SX250 fares better than my previous Karizma.I have a problem with exhaust angle, my right heel touches it as I have habit of resting ball of foot on footpeg. I feel this is mostly due to part sharing in 250cc Suzuki line-up. Footpeg is also too thick, more so when seen with rear footpeg.Clutch isnt exactly light; it shows its presence while riding in city for more than an hour. Light spring action of Slipper clutch could have helped here. I have changed habit to downshift lazily (also influence of Innova), so slipper clutch isnt missed much.Gearshifts are quite smooth. Ugly ghost/phantom neutral shows up when one is non-committal. Light touches arent welcome, it has to be firm upshift/downshift. Slotting into neutral isnt a problem although its easier to shift to neutral from 2nd than 1st gear.: With my regular usage of 70% highways, I get 40 to 42 kmpl. Maximum that I have seen is 44.7 Kmpl. Economy shown on console isnt much higher than tankful method. Only once it happened to show 35.5 Kmpl (case of high revving) whereas tankful turned out to be 40.1 Kmpl. My Karizma used to deliver 45 Kmpl consistently. Rides to Konkan used to get completed in single full tank(15 ltr) on Karizma, SX250 will demand a fuel fill on return journey.Fuel indicator has 6 bars, left most bar starts blinking at around 360-370 Kms mark. I fill up at next available HP/BP fuel station which fills up 10.5-11 liters. Console also has additional extreme low fuel blinking; I am yet to test it.: Alloy wheels was a must for me, all my vehicles have it as a standard fitment. Good thing in this alloy design is that tubeless valve is located off-center and that makes life easier while filling air in tyres. I would have liked the valve to have a 90 degrees bend, however thats not a norm so far.I dont have much faith on MRF tyres and wont use it beyond 1.5-2 years. These tyres are already skidding in parking spaces at different premises. Grip was felt wanting on few fast corners on NH48 section near Pune. Sipes are so wide that sometimes small stones get stuck leading to unbalance. It is very likely that I would shift to full road-biased tyres on next change.For my anticipated braking and speed control via throttle, I find current Bybre braking to be adequate. Even in emergency situation once on highway, braking was spot-on without making me feel uneasy. I haven't noticed effect of ABS yet.: On regular commute, I noticed that odo is showing more distance than pre-pandemic. I knew that due to Metro and Chandani chowk diversions, some distance has increased., but this bit beyond. Thats when I compared trip distances on my Innova and SX250 on multiple days. SX250 shows 5.7% more distance than my Innova. I also compared same with Nephews Tiger 800 and SX250 showed 3.9% more distance.Even on Speedo comparison with Tiger 800, SX 250 shows 73 whereas Tiger was on 70 and 84 on SX 250, Tiger on 80. Both times, Tiger 800 was put on cruise control and I was running parallel to it for some distance.41mm front fork offers 120mm travel same as Gixxer 250. For my kind of usage on pothole filled broken roads, its a non-issue. I havent felt suspension bottoming out.This photo shows travel markings on front fork, it measures 100 mm. Even if dust seal gets added, travel is at 110mm, still has some mm of travel left. Either spring is stiff to not flex enough for 120mm travel OR I dont dare to jump bike much.On my regular commute, I come across a section of around 4kms having 23 speed-breakers. This leads to many occasions of long queue of vehicles. I have countered this with doing bit of off-roading sometimes even standing up. Firm suspension also helps here in providing stability and never a feeling of losing control.In 2 years, when I would change front fork oil, I may also experiment with fork oil weight and possibly fork preload adjusters.Rear monoshock offers preload adjustment. Within a week of getting the bike, I worked on measuring static sag for my weight. All distances measured from a point on axle and a point near rear rack. Reading A is bike off the ground, Reading B is bike with wheel on ground whereas Reading C is with Rider on bike, wheel obviously on ground.Rider weight: 77KgsSpring is stiff, static sag doesnt increase too much even after moving to softest setting. While in stock position, static sag is fine for entry level track learning but not for street riding. I used bike in position 1 till for around 700 Kms and wanted to change as soon as I could. In that position, accelerating makes you feel that rear is way too behind and on turns rear wants to step out at every opportunity. On one of the rides to a nearby fort, used C-spanner from Interceptor toolkit of Surja to move to position 2 and still havent changed it.I almost have most riding gear thats needed regularly. In 2021, I had updated my helmet from SMK twister to HJC i70 (Which Helmet? Tips on buying a good helmet) . In early 2022, I had bought RE blemish gloves just for having a pair other than black and at that time I hadnt thought that I will buy a yellow colour motorcycle later.Current riding gearJacket: 2016 Aspida Helios mesh jacket (updated with D30 level 2 armor)Helmet: HJC i70Gloves: RE Blemish(summer), RE Spiti(winter)Knee guards: Zandona level 2Riding pant: Tourmaster venture overpantRiding boots: Solace & WoodlandI got the Suzuki jacket after 1.5 months of bike purchase. It comes with internal rain and winter layers. Armor is pretty basic, back armor didnt have foam removed from punched holes. Neck has a Velcro locking which irritates against skin or rubs against balaclava. My jacket didnt have zip runner closed on top, had do a jugaad with a sewing thread. Jacket looks good to match with bike colour and good to use in winters whereas it was quite sweaty for me in Summer (reverted to using my older Aspida mesh jacket).: This bike mostly suits those who want to go farther at a faster pace and not necessarily off-road.Huge thanks to BHPianfor shooting in-motion photos by sitting as rearward pillion on Tiger 800, he also helped in reviewing content for these posts. Attached Files ds250-36.pdf (1.68 MB, 26 views) Last edited by sukiwa : 29th May 2023 at 10:06 . raptor_diwan BHPian Join Date: Feb 2023 Location: Chennai Posts: 202 Thanked: 1,471 Times re: A journey through Kodaikanal and Kerala | Nissan Magnite Day 1 was indeed quite exciting! As I had requested, my friends didn't disturb my sleep, and I ended up waking up at 11:45 AM. It was quite a surprise. I was awakened by repeated phone calls. The view from my bed was absolutely breathtaking. I could see the stars twinkling in the night sky right from the comfort of my room. When I finally woke up, the view only got better. Unfortunately, my attempt to capture the mesmerizing sight with my iPhone turned out to be a pitch-black picture. It seems the stars were too elusive for my camera to capture from the bedroom. Nonetheless, the experience of waking up to such a picturesque view was truly unforgettable. Feeling refreshed and ready for the day, I got myself ready and headed upstairs. To my surprise, everyone was already up and about, fully prepared for the day's adventures. One of my friends was lounging comfortably in the sofa, seemingly enjoying a lazy morning. Another friend was diligently washing the dishes in the kitchen, taking care of the ones we had used the previous night. And there was the third friend, out on the balcony, expertly hanging up freshly washed clothes to dry in the sunshine. It seemed like everyone had their assigned tasks, making the most of our time together. I made a beeline for the balcony, eager to capture the beauty of the surroundings in a few pictures. The fresh air and scenic views were invigorating. Just as I was lost in the moment, one of my friends called me to join them for breakfast. To my surprise, they had thoughtfully bought and arranged my favorite food items, including dosa and poori. It was as if they knew exactly what would make my taste buds dance with joy. It turned out that while I was sleeping, they had ventured out to a restaurant for breakfast. I felt grateful for their consideration. Here's a sneak peek of our villa surroundings. We decided to escape the crowded streets of Kodaikanal and explore the serene beauty of Poombari and Cookal Lake instead. We had heard news of the city being bustling with tourists and heavy traffic, so we opted for a more tranquil experience in the outskirts. Excitement filled the air as we set out from our room, ready to embark on a day of adventure and discovery. Well, it seems I fell into the classic vacation trap of visiting a hill station during peak tourist season. Kodaikanal is no exception, with its streets bustling like a beehive on a honey rush. Despite my best intentions, I couldn't resist the allure, especially since the wedding is conveniently located nearby. Looks like I'll have to embrace the chaos and find my Zen amidst the bustling crowds. Oh, the traffic troublemakers are none other than the local cab drivers! Despite the clear and easy flow of vehicles, they confidently choose to go in the wrong direction, causing a blockade for others and rudely cutting into the line. I couldn't fathom what they were thinking. I managed to stay calm for a while, but then I lost count as almost 20 cabs followed suit, and each time one cab passed, someone else from the queue would do the same, making the traffic even worse. It was like a never-ending cycle of chaos! We finally reached the Poombari Viewpoint. Up until this point, the traffic had been quite intense due to the winding ghat road. But hey, we made the most of it! With our trusty friends by our side, we turned the traffic ordeal into a fun experience. We savored the scenic views, both from inside the car and by strolling alongside it amidst the traffic. Source Here's the online version vs reality in summer. Well, I won't gripe about it, but I must say the experience at Poombarai wasn't entirely new to me. The Instagram hype and the actual reality can be quite different. It feels like Kodaikanal is going down the commercialized path, just like Ooty. In my opinion, Ooty has already lost some of its natural beauty and resembles more of a bustling city than a serene destination. I had hoped Kodaikanal would remain distinct, but it seems to be heading in the same direction. And Finally Reached Kookal Lake To be honest, it's not just about the destination itself but also the journey we took to get there. The route we chose, from Poombarai towards Kookal, turned out to be a hidden gem. There was hardly any traffic, with just one or two vehicles passing every 5 minutes. The road may have been narrow, but it made the journey all the more enjoyable. Day 2 :- Kodaikanal ( Poombarai & Kookal )Day 1 was indeed quite exciting! As I had requested, my friends didn't disturb my sleep, and I ended up waking up at 11:45 AM. It was quite a surprise.I was awakened by repeated phone calls. The view from my bed was absolutely breathtaking. I could see the stars twinkling in the night sky right from the comfort of my room. When I finally woke up, the view only got better. Unfortunately, my attempt to capture the mesmerizing sight with my iPhone turned out to be a pitch-black picture. It seems the stars were too elusive for my camera to capture from the bedroom. Nonetheless, the experience of waking up to such a picturesque view was truly unforgettable.Feeling refreshed and ready for the day, I got myself ready and headed upstairs. To my surprise, everyone was already up and about, fully prepared for the day's adventures. One of my friends was lounging comfortably in the sofa, seemingly enjoying a lazy morning. Another friend was diligently washing the dishes in the kitchen, taking care of the ones we had used the previous night. And there was the third friend, out on the balcony, expertly hanging up freshly washed clothes to dry in the sunshine. It seemed like everyone had their assigned tasks, making the most of our time together.I made a beeline for the balcony, eager to capture the beauty of the surroundings in a few pictures. The fresh air and scenic views were invigorating. Just as I was lost in the moment, one of my friends called me to join them for breakfast.To my surprise, they had thoughtfully bought and arranged my favorite food items, including dosa and poori. It was as if they knew exactly what would make my taste buds dance with joy. It turned out that while I was sleeping, they had ventured out to a restaurant for breakfast. I felt grateful for their consideration.Here's a sneak peek of our villa surroundings.We decided to escape the crowded streets of Kodaikanal and explore the serene beauty of Poombari and Cookal Lake instead. We had heard news of the city being bustling with tourists and heavy traffic, so we opted for a more tranquil experience in the outskirts. Excitement filled the air as we set out from our room, ready to embark on a day of adventure and discovery.Well, it seems I fell into the classic vacation trap of visiting a hill station during peak tourist season. Kodaikanal is no exception, with its streets bustling like a beehive on a honey rush. Despite my best intentions, I couldn't resist the allure, especially since the wedding is conveniently located nearby. Looks like I'll have to embrace the chaos and find my Zen amidst the bustling crowds.Oh, the traffic troublemakers are none other than the local cab drivers! Despite the clear and easy flow of vehicles, they confidently choose to go in the wrong direction, causing a blockade for others and rudely cutting into the line. I couldn't fathom what they were thinking. I managed to stay calm for a while, but then I lost count as almost 20 cabs followed suit, and each time one cab passed, someone else from the queue would do the same, making the traffic even worse. It was like a never-ending cycle of chaos!We finally reached the Poombari Viewpoint. Up until this point, the traffic had been quite intense due to the winding ghat road.But hey, we made the most of it! With our trusty friends by our side, we turned the traffic ordeal into a fun experience. We savored the scenic views, both from inside the car and by strolling alongside it amidst the traffic.Here's the online version vs reality in summer.Well, I won't gripe about it, but I must say the experience at Poombarai wasn't entirely new to me. The Instagram hype and the actual reality can be quite different. It feels like Kodaikanal is going down the commercialized path, just like Ooty. In my opinion, Ooty has already lost some of its natural beauty and resembles more of a bustling city than a serene destination. I had hoped Kodaikanal would remain distinct, but it seems to be heading in the same direction.And Finally Reached Kookal LakeTo be honest, it's not just about the destination itself but also the journey we took to get there. The route we chose, from Poombarai towards Kookal, turned out to be a hidden gem. There was hardly any traffic, with just one or two vehicles passing every 5 minutes. The road may have been narrow, but it made the journey all the more enjoyable. Last edited by raptor_diwan : 30th May 2023 at 16:00 . The rapid rise of artificial intelligence may pose a significant challenge to the female workforce, as many women's jobs could be at risk, according to a recent study. The rapid rise of artificial intelligence may pose a significant challenge to the female workforce, as many women's jobs could be at risk, according to a recent study. A new report from a human resources analytics firm found that artificial intelligence threatens to replace a disproportionate number of jobs typically held by women. According to researchers at Revelio Labs, their findings reflect social biases that have funneled women into roles ripe for AI replacement, such as administrative assistants and secretaries. Revelio arrived at its findings by identifying around two dozen jobs most likely to be replaced by AI based on a National Bureau of Economic Research study. Then it identified the gender breakdown in those jobs. Women held many of those jobs, it noted. They included bill and account collectors, payroll clerks, and executive secretaries. Women, as well as people of color, tend to be delegated into occupations that are repetitive in nature when it comes to tasks. That means that theyre going to be disproportionally impacted by any jobs that are fully automated, observed Nicol Turner Lee, director of the Center for Technology Innovation and a senior fellow in governance studies at The Brookings Institution, a nonprofit public policy organization in Washington, D.C. Those jobs have already seen a decline as a result of new technologies that have been introduced, she told TechNewsWorld. However, AI has a greater likelihood to engage in roles where there is high repetition that can be automated. That automation often lends itself to low-level workers being outplaced. People Needed in Loop Will Duffield, a policy analyst with the Cato Institute, a Washington, D.C. think tank, explained that if more women than men are in rote jobs involving computers, then they will be more affected by AI displacement. However, he was skeptical that all the jobs listed in the Revelio report required only repetitive skills. It seems outlandish to expect a paralegal to be replaced by AI, he told TechNewsWorld. The same is true of copy editors and auditors because, at the end of the day, you need humans to avoid making mistakes, he said. AI may make workers more efficient, so there may be fewer jobs, he continued, but the idea that the jobs will be replaced entirely is quite speculative and overhyped. AI will have to become much more reliable in order to replace people rather than just becoming just another tool in their repertoire that they have to decide how much to trust, he noted. Thats not to say AI wont become more reliable in the future, he acknowledged, but right now, all of this is quite speculative. There should always be some human in the loop to ensure that the AI isnt creating unnecessary biases or inefficiencies, Turner Lee added. You still need people to manage that. Facing Massive Disruption Revelios warning about the impact of AI on womens jobs echoes a similar one issued by the International Monetary Fund in 2018. At that time, the IMF projected that 11% of jobs held by women a higher percentage of jobs held by men were at risk of elimination due to AI and other digital technologies. In financial services, for example, women represent almost 50% of the workforce, but they hold only 25% of senior management positions, according to a report by the Boston Consulting Group. Senior management positions are usually insulated from shocks caused by automation, the report noted. Women working in the sector, it continued, predominate clerical and administrative jobs that are at high risk of elimination, such as bank tellers, which are 85% females. The report noted that pattern holds true across even female-dominated industries, such as health care and education, which are less threatened by automation. The BCG predicted that AI will disrupt employment patterns on a massive scale in the coming years. It asserted that companies, governments, and individual women must be prepared to invest in reskilling for the new generation of jobs. Duffield, though, recommended that workers think about the present rather than the future. For the worker now, its much less about worrying about what new job you should train for because AI will replace yours than learning to use AI in the job youre doing now, he said. Job Impact Hyped Workers that embrace AI may be surprised by their productivity gains. Its saving me time and money in my company, observed Deidre Diamond, founder and CEO of CyberSN, a cybersecurity recruiting and career resources firm in Framingham, Mass. I havent replaced people, she told TechNewsWorld. Ive been able to accelerate projects, accelerate work. Ida Byrd-Hill, CEO and founder of Automation Workz, a reskilling and diversity consulting firm in Detroit, also praised her productivity gains by using ChatGPT. I wrote a proposal that normally takes 100 hours in 11 hours, she told TechNewsWorld. Tales of productivity gains, though, are being overshadowed by dire and somewhat distorted predictions about AIs impact on the workforce. The news cycle has included a series of ever-shifting claims about what impact generative AI systems will have on jobs, maintained Hodan Omaar, a senior AI policy analyst with the Center for Data Innovation, a think tank studying the intersection of data, technology, and public policy, in Washington, D.C. The purported impact varies wildly from outlet to outlet, but the central message from the news media is clear AI is here to take almost all the jobs, not just the blue-collar ones, the white-collar ones too, she told TechNewsWorld. Hokum Claims Omaar called many of the claims hokum. She cited a recent news article with the headline OpenAI Research Says 80% of U.S. Workers Jobs Will Be Impacted by GPT. The headline is eye-catching, emotionally resonating, and easily repeatable, but it is narrowly true and broadly misleading, she argued. The statistic comes from a research paper by OpenAI, but the paper doesnt simply say 80% of jobs will be impacted. It says around 80% of the U.S. workforce could have at least 10% of their work tasks affected. That means the real statistic is that large language models might impact at least eight percent of work in the U.S. economy, she continued. A significantly less dramatic picture of the research findings but a more honest one. Omaar explained that concerns about AI taking jobs are based on the lump of labor fallacy, the idea that there is a fixed amount of work, and thus productivity growth, such as from automation, will reduce the number of jobs. But the data tells a different story, she continued. Labor productivity has grown steadily for the past century even if that growth has been slower recently and unemployment is near an all-time low. It is becoming more difficult to wade through the hogwash of claims about AI, but if readers, and more importantly policymakers, arent prudent, they will make decisions based on unfounded fears or hype, she cautioned. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Today it is obvious that energy security cannot be ensured at the desired level without natural gas supplies, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said at the official opening ceremony of the 28th International Exhibition "Oil and Gas of the Caspian Sea" and the 11th Caspian International Exhibition "Energy and Green Energy" - Caspian Power at the Baku Expo Center, Trend reports. Will be updated Why is Kali Linux popular among hackers? Kali is a popular distro among the security community due to its design, it incorporates tools oriented towards penetration testing, security research, computer forensics and reverse engineering. Kali Linux became mainstream popular thanks to the TV Series Mr. Robot. How many tools does Kali Linux include? Kali Linux is preinstalled with over 600 penetration-testing programs, including nmap (a port scanner), Wireshark (a packet analyzer), John the Ripper (a password cracker), Aircrack-ng (a software suite for penetration-testing wireless LANs), Burp suite and OWASP ZAP (both web application security scanners). How secure is Kali Linux? Kali Linux is developed in a secure location with only a small number of trusted people that are allowed to commit packages, with each package being signed by the developer. Kali also has a custom-built kernel that is patched for injection. This was primarily added because the development team found they needed to do a lot of wireless assessments. Is Kali Linux portable? Kali Linux can run natively when installed on a PC, can be booted from a live CD or live USB, or it can run within a virtual machine. It is a supported platform of the Metasploit Project's Metasploit Framework, a tool for developing and executing security exploits. What Linux distribution is Kali Linux based on? Kali Linux is based on Debian Wheezy. Most packages Kali uses are imported from the Debian repositories. What version of Kali Linux should I download? Each version of Kali Linux is optimized for a specific purpose or platform. First, you have to establish your system's architecture. If your system is 64-bit and you want to have a permanent installation, the Kali Linux ISO 64-bit is your choice. If you want to try Kali Linux without having to install it, the portable versions are the way to go. Kali Linux was developed by Mati Aharoni and Devon Kearns of Offensive Security through the rewrite of BackTrack, their previous forensics Linux distribution based on Ubuntu. The third core developer Raphael Hertzog joined them as Debian expert. What's New Today we are releasing Kali 2023.2 (and on our 10th anniversary)! It will be ready for immediate download or updating by the time you have finished reading this post. Quick off the mark from previous 10 year anniversary, Kali Linux 2023.2 is now here. It is ready for immediate download or upgrading if you have an existing Kali Linux installation. The changelog highlights over the last few weeks since March's release of 2023.1 is: New VM image for Hyper-V - With "Enhanced Session Mode" out of the box Xfce audio stack update: enters PipeWire - Better audio for Kali's default desktop i3 desktop overhaul - i3-gaps merged with i3 Desktop updates - Easy hashing in Xfce GNOME 44 - Gnome Shell version bump Icons & menus updates - New apps and icons in menu New tools - As always, various new packages added Kali Purple Over the years, we have perfected what we have specialized in, offensive security. We are now starting to branch into a new area, defensive security! We are doing an initial technical preview pre-launch of "Kali Purple". This is still in its infancy and is going to need time to mature. But you can start to see the direction Kali is expanding into. You can also be a part of helping to shape the direction! What is Kali Purple? The one stop shop for blue and purple Teams. Remember what we did a decade ago with Kali Linux? Or with BackTrack before that? We made offensive security accessible to everyone. No expensive licenses required, no need for commercial grade infrastructure, no writing code or compiling tools to make it all work... Just download Kali Linux and do your thing. We are excited to start a new journey with the mission to do exactly the same for defensive security: Just download Kali Purple and do your thing. Kali Purple is starting out as a Proof of Concept, evolving into a framework, then a platform (just like how Kali is today). The goal is to make enterprise grade security accessible to everyone. On a higher level, Kali Purple consists of: A reference architecture for the ultimate SOC In-A-Box; perfect for: Learning Practicing SOC analysis and threat hunting Security control design and testing Blue / Red / Purple teaming exercises Kali spy vs. spy competitions ( bare knuckle Blue vs. Red ) Protection of small to medium size environments Over 100 defensive tools, such as: Arkime - Full packet capture and analysis CyberChef - The cyber swiss army knife Elastic Security - Security Information and Event Management GVM - Vulnerability scanner TheHive - Incident response platform Malcolm - Network traffic analysis tool suite Suricata - Intrusion Detection System Zeek - (another) Intrusion Detection System (both have their use-cases!) ...and of course all the usual Kali tools Defensive tools documentations Pre-generated image Kali Autopilot - an attack script builder / framework for automated attacks Kali Purple Hub for the community to share: Practice pcaps Kali Autopilot scripts for blue teaming exercises Community Wiki A defensive menu structure according to NIST CSF (National Institute of Standards and Technology Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity): Identify Protect Detect Respond Recover Kali Purple Discord channels for community collaboration and fun And theme: installer, menu entries & Xfce! Previous release notes Before the year is over, we thought it was best to get the final 2022 release out. Today we are publishing Kali Linux 2022.4. This is ready for immediate download or updating existing installations. A summary of the changelog since August's 2022.3 release: Microsoft Azure - We are back on the Microsoft Azure store More Platforms - Generic Cloud, QEMU VM image & Vagrant libvirt Social Networks - New homes, keeping in touch & press packs Kali NetHunter Pro - Announcing the first release of a "true" Kali Linux on the mobile phone (PinePhone / Pro) Kali NetHunter - Internal Bluetooth support, kernel porting video, firmware updates & other improvements Desktop Updates - GNOME 43 & KDE 5.26 New Tools - As always, various new packages added Microsoft Azure Its been a long time coming, but we are very happy to announce that Kali has been added to Microsoft Azure (again - and this time to stay)! Following in the foot steps of our Amazon AWS image, we are using the same kali-cloud build-scripts now to automate publishing to Microsoft Azure store. Out of the box, currently, there is no graphical user interface, or any tools pre-installed. Should you want the default toolset (kali-linux-default) or any other combination of metapackages, it should be like any other Kali platform. For installing a desktop environment, we have the following kali-docs page: Setting up RDP with Xfce We hope in 2023 we can revisit this again and are looking at doing ARM64 architecture, as well as different variations of images, allowing you to choose from a mixture of headless bare-bones install, the traditional environment, and a mixture of everything in-between. More Platforms We are now including a QEMU image with our pre-generated images. We hope this makes it easier for the people who use self-hosted Proxmox Virtual Environments (VE), virt-manager, or libvirt! On that subject, elrey (alex) from the community has added libvirt support to our kali-vagrant build-script. In Kali 2022.3, we have produced a Generic Cloud image. The idea of this image is that it should work in "most" cloud providers This is coming from our kali-cloud build-scripts. So if you are self-hosting OpenStack, this is a great way of getting Kali loaded up! Social Networks We have expanded the social networks which we post on, as well as refreshing the current ones. As a recap: Facebook: facebook.com/KaliLinux NEW Instagram: instagram.com/KaliLinux NEW Mastodon: @kalilinux@infosec.exchange Twitter: twitter.com/KaliLinux As a reminder, we don't use social networks for technical support - you can receive community support via discord or our forums and bug reports should go to the bug tracker! Instead, we automatically post blog posts thus these accounts are mostly unmonitored! Previous release notes In light of "Hacker Summer Camp 2022" (BlackHat USA, BSides LV, and DEFCON) occurring right now, we wanted to push out Kali Linux 2022.3 as a nice surprise for everyone to enjoy! With the publishing of this blog post, we have the download links ready for immediate access, or you can update any existing installation. The highlights for Kali's 2022.3's release: Discord Server - Kali's new community real-time chat option has launched! Test Lab Environment - Quickly create a test bed to learn, practice, and benchmark tools and compare their results Opening Kali-Tools Repo - We have opened up the Kali tools repository & are accepting your submissions! Help Wanted - We are looking for a Go developer to help us on an open-source project Kali NetHunter Updates - New releases in our NetHunter store Virtual Machines Updates - New VirtualBox image format, weekly images, and build-scripts to build your own New Tools In Kali - Would not be a release without some new tools! Kali is on Discord We have started up a new discord server, Kali Linux & Friends. This is our new place for the Kali community to get together and chat in real-time all about Kali Linux (as well as other community projects that OffSec has to offer). This is a community server, all with common interests. We do not have the goal to get as many users as possible, instead, we are growing a place for each other to help one another. We are focusing on quality not quantity. Please bear in mind, if you are looking for help, first search for your problem, ask questions, then wait for the community support from your peers. Remember no one is under obligation to help you, and you are more likely to get assistance if you are polite and show you have put some effort into solving your own issue. Speaking of "real-time chatting", we are going to be starting a new tradition. We will be doing an hour long session after every Kali release where various Kali developers will come and voice chat on Discord, answer questions about Kali and its direction, take your input, and so on. We will be sure to add details about this in every blog post release going forwards. The first one is on Tuesday, 16th August 2022 16:00 -> 17:00 UTC/+0 GMT. Feel free to be a fly on the wall, come by to say a hello, or ask questions! This is a great opportunity to ask questions, provide your input on what can help improve Kali, or get involved and contribute! Please note, we will not be recording these sessions. These are live sessions only. New Tools in Kali It would not be a Kali release if there were not any new tools added! A quick run down of what has been added (to the network repositories): BruteShark - Network Analysis Tool DefectDojo - Open-source application vulnerability correlation and security orchestration tool phpsploit - Stealth post-exploitation framework shellfire - Exploiting LFI/RFI and command injection vulnerabilities SprayingToolkit - Password spraying attacks against Lync/S4B, OWA and O365 Other Kali updates For people who use Xrdp (like Win-KeX), there is a new look to the login We have fixed up some confusion between fuse and fuse3 We did some maintenance to our network repository, and shrank /kali from 1.7Tb to 520Gb! Test Lab Environment "A craftsman is only as good as their tools." This is true, even outside of Information Security field, you need to understand your tools to master your craft. You can read their code to understand how they work (or a very detailed REAME at times), help screens and their manuals (if they have one) will give you a starting point on how to use them. But where do you use them especially when they are security tools? What output should the tool give? What is a successful run? How long does the tool take? What is its baseline? How can I get experience with it? All valid questions which need answers. To try and achieve these answers, most seasoned professionals will practice first (hopefully in a known, controlled environment!). This is where a "Test Bed/Laboratory" comes into play. Theory is different to practical (You may remember this the first time you were tasked of something new to accomplish). You can take the static theory-based output from help screens, READMEs, and manual pages and hands-on enter the data into programs and monitor the dynamic output and practical response. Its one thing to read something, its another to do it. The result often gives people a deeper understanding. Practice makes ~perfect~ permanent. So practice, practice, practice! Inquisitive minds can then start to experiment with new configurations, options, commands and flags. Then start to chain items together, or compare similar and alternative solutions, then compare the results, to become more educated and build up a benchmark of knowledge. This grows experience. We are trying to make it a bit easier to build up your test lab. So we have packaged up: DVWA - Damn Vulnerable Web Application Juice Shop - OWASP Juice Shop Kali for Virtual Machines We have already provided Kali Linux images for VMware and VirtualBox since the start. For this release, there's been a few changes worth noting. We now distribute the VirtualBox image as a VDI disk and a .vbox metadata file, or to say it short: the native format for VirtualBox images. It should be a bit faster to download, as those images have a better compression ratio compared to the OVA images that we used to provide. It should also be a bit more straightforward to use it, you just need to unpack the image in your VirtualBox folder and run it. In case you need help, refer to our documentation: Import Pre-Made Kali VirtualBox VM. Additionally, we just started to provide weekly builds of our VM images. These images are built from the kali-rolling branch, meaning that they have the most up-to-date packages, but on the other hand they don't receive as much testing as our quarterly releases. Last but not least, the scripts that we use to build those images are now available on GitLab. If you need to build custom Kali VM images, this is the place to go! Previous release notes Added Net Installer Mirror. With the Net Installer all packages are downloaded during the installation. The Net Installer ISO file is 415MB. It's that time of year again, time for another Kali Linux release! Quarter #2 - Kali Linux 2022.2. This release has various impressive updates, all of which are ready for immediate download or updating. The summary of the changelog since the 2022.1 release from February 2022 is: GNOME 42 - Major release update of the popular desktop environment KDE Plasma 5.24 - Version bump with a more polished experience Multiple desktop enhancements - Disabled motherboard beep on Xfce, alternative panel layout for ARM, better support for VirtualBox shared folders, and lots more Tweaks for the terminal - Enhanced Zsh syntax-highlighting, inclusion of Python3-pip and Python3-virtualenv by default April fools - Hollywood mode - Awesome screensaver Kali Unkaputtbar - BTRFS snapshot support for Kali Win-KeX 3.1 - sudo support for GUI apps New tools - Various new tools added WPS attacks in Kali NetHunter - Added WPS attacks tab to the NetHunter app GNOME 42 Like for every (almost) half-year, there is a new version bump for the GNOME desktop environment. Kali 2022.2 brings the new version, GNOME 42, which is a more polished experienced following the work previously introduced in versions 40 and 41. The shell theme now includes a more modern look, removing the arrows from the pop-up menus and using more rounded edges. In addition, we've upgraded and tweaked the dash-to-dock extension, making it integrate better with the new look and fixing some bugs. Here is a preview of the upgraded Kali themes for gnome-shell: Kali-Dark: Kali-Light: GNOME 42's Built-In Screenshot and Screencast Tool With GNOME 42, there is one new feature that is brighter than all of the others: the screenshot and screen-recording tool. It's an enormous improvement in terms of user experience. Screenshots are, at the same time, saved to the ~/Pictures/Screenshots/ folder and copied to the clipboard, so the user does not need to find them. Quick shortcuts to skip the On Screen Display (OSD) dialog: Window screenshot: Alt + PtrScr Full-screen screenshot: Shift + PtrScr KDE Plasma 5.24 This new Plasma release focuses on smoothing out wrinkles, evolving the design, and improving the overall feel and usability of the environment: Other Desktop Enhancements Xfce Tweaks Disable noisy motherboard beep when clicking the logout dialog! Thank you @DavidAlvesWeb! Configure mousepad (text editor) to add the missing newline at the end of the file (POSIX standard): It was especially problematic if you used the text file in the terminal. Printing two files would show their respective last and first lines joined. Set the default wallpaper for multi-monitor setups Fix mouse pointer size to prevent auto-scaling in large displays New simplified panel layout for arm devices: The layout we generally use for Xfce works perfectly, but it could not fit in undersized displays. This issue was common on ARM devices like the Raspberry Pi, which can use a screen the size of the board. Therefore, we have created an alternative panel layout that gets automatically applied for all ARM-based images. Here is an example of a display with a 800x480 resolution: This modification also removes the CPU graph widget, not only due to the horizontal space it required, but also because it had a performance hit in low spec ARM devices. App Icons It has been some time since the last update of the kali menu. This time the icons for nmap, ffuf, and edb-debugger were improved and updated, and new ones were added for evil-winrm and bloodhound. Another improvement for the app dashboard is that the programs that include a user interface will now respect the custom icon provided by Kali. Previously, the icon in the app drawer showed the proper image, but once you launched it, the icon hardcoded to the program took preference, usually using a lower quality and pixelated image. This change will only affect KDE and GNOME desktops and, unfortunately, does not work on Xfce. Thankfully, this issue was more noticeable in these desktops, as icons in Xfce's panel are tiny. Before: After: Previous release notes With the end of 2021 just around the corner, we are pushing out the last release of the year with Kali Linux 2021.4, which is ready for immediate download or updating. The summary of the changelog since the 2021.3 release from September 2021 is: Improved Apple M1 support Wide compatibility for Samba Switching package manager mirrors Kaboxer theming Updates to Xfce, GNOME and KDE Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W + USBArmory MkII ARM images More tools Kali on the Apple M1 As we announced in Kali 2021.1 we supported installing Kali Linux on Parallels on Apple Silicon Macs, well with 2021.4, we now also support it on the VMware Fusion Public Tech Preview thanks to the 5.14 kernel having the modules needed for the virtual GPU used. We also have updated the open-vm-tools package, and Kali's installer will automatically detect if you are installing under VMware and install the open-vm-tools-desktop package, which should allow you to change the resolution out of the box. As a reminder, this is still a preview from VMware, so there may be some rough edges. There is no extra documentation for this because the installation process is the same as VMWare on 64-bit and 32-bit Intel systems, just using the arm64 ISO. As a reminder, virtual machines on Apple Silicon are still limited to arm64 architecture only. Extended Compatibility for the Samba Client Starting Kali Linux 2021.4, the Samba client is now configured for Wide Compatibility so that it can connect to pretty much every Samba server out there, regardless of the version of the protocol in use. This change should make it easier to discover vulnerable Samba servers "out of the box", without having to configure Kali. This setting can be changed easily via the command-line tool kali-tweaks. In the Hardening section, one can choose the value Default instead, which reverts back to Samba's usual default, and only allow using modern versions of the Samba protocol. New Tools in Kali It would not be a Kali release if there were not any new tools added! A quick run down of what's been added (to the network repositories): Dufflebag - Search exposed EBS volumes for secrets Maryam - Open-source Intelligence (OSINT) Framework Name-That-Hash - Do not know what type of hash it is? Name That Hash will name that hash type! Proxmark3 - if you are into Proxmark3 and RFID hacking Reverse Proxy Grapher - graphviz graph illustrating your reverse proxy flow S3Scanner - Scan for open S3 buckets and dump the contents Spraykatz - Credentials gathering tool automating remote procdump and parse of lsass process. truffleHog - Searches through git repositories for high entropy strings and secrets, digging deep into commit history Web of trust grapher (wotmate) - reimplement the defunct PGP pathfinder without needing anything other than your own keyring Desktop & Theme Enhancement This release brings updates for all the 3 main desktops (Xfce, GNOME, and KDE), but one that is common to all of them is the new window buttons design. Previous buttons were designed to fit the window theme of Xfce but did not work well with the other desktops and lacked personality. The new design looks elegant on any of the desktops and makes it easier to spot the currently focused window. Xfce The panel layout has been tweaked to optimize horizontal space and make room for 2 new widgets: the CPU usage widget and the VPN IP widget, which remains hidden unless a VPN connection is established. Following the steps of other desktops, the task manager has been configured to "icons only", which, with the slight increase in the panel's height, makes the overall look cleaner and improves multitasking in smaller displays. The workspaces overview has been configured to the "Buttons" appearance, as the previous configuration "Miniature view" was too wide and a bit confusing for some users. Now that each workspace button takes less space in the panel, we have increased the default number of workspaces to 4, as it's a usual arrangement in Linux desktops. To finish with the modifications, a shortcut to PowerShell has been added to the terminals dropdown menu. With this addition, you can now choose between the regular terminal, root terminal, and PowerShell. Why it matters: Summer is coming, and A/C units will soon start humming to try and keep our homes and offices a bit cooler than the sunny hellscape waiting for us outside. But air conditioning comes with an enormous waste of electric energy, which in turns brings more greenhouse gases to an already boiling atmosphere. As global warming is a phenomenon that sane-mind people can feel on their own skin, we are in desperate need for alternative cooling technologies that won't add any more harmful emissions to our overheating planet. A potential solution to this hot issue comes from passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC), which is the ability of a surface to emit its own heat into space without it being absorbed by the air or atmosphere. PDRC materials can become several degrees colder than the air around them, and with no need for electrical power or other external energy sources. Passive cooling surfaces could be embedded in buildings or cars, promoting a substantial cooling effect without using air conditioning units or other active, power-intensive methods. Researchers from Cambridge University, UK, are working on a novel cellulose film with PDRC properties, a plant-based, two-layered material that gets cooler when exposed to direct sunlight. The film can also be treated to provide bright, iridescent colors, and a variety of textures which would help with integrating the material in home furniture or automotive applications. The UK scientists presented their results during the ACS Spring 2023 hybrid meeting, explaining how cellulose is one of the few naturally occurring compounds that can promote a PDRC effect. Adding a color pigment to a material is detrimental to the aforementioned PDRC effect, as pigments absorb specific wavelengths of visible light and only reflect the color(s) we see. The absorbed electromagnetic radiation is then turned into heat. To solve the heating issue, the researchers focused on natural structures that can show a colorful effect that doesn't require the presence of a pigment. Something like the prismatic effect seen on a soap bubble, which is the result of the way visible light interacts with the bubble's surface at the microscopic level. The effect is known as structural color, and Ph. D. Silvia Vignolini (the project's principal investigator) found that plant-derived cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) can be employed to produce iridescent, colorful films with no addition of external color pigments. Vignolini's team added a second layer to the iridescent, CNC-based film, using a white-colored material made from ethyl cellulose and finally creating a colorful, bi-layered film with PDRC properties. When placed under direct sunlight, the film was nearly 7F cooler than the surrounding air. Sticking together the two cellulose layers was the most difficult part of the research, the UK scientists said, but the final result can be adapted to a standard manufacturing line for mass production. In brief: Arm's latest mobile CPU and GPU designs are official, and the big focus this year is on boosting energy efficiency through various microarchitectural improvements. The company is also leaving the AArch32 (32-bit) instruction set behind after seeing that more than 90 percent of mobile apps are now distributed as 64-bit binaries. Arm this week showed off new mobile CPU and GPU designs that manufacturers will use to power future phones, tablets, and ultraportable laptops. The company seems to have settled on a yearly cadence when iterating on its microarchitectures, and this time we're also seeing a complete transition to 64-bit computing for the company's Total Compute Solutions (TCS). Speaking of 64-bit computing, companies like Qualcomm and MediaTek have yet to fully drop 32-bit support from their custom designs. Notably, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 that was launched last year doesn't adhere to Arm's design, and the same is true for MediaTek's Dimensity 9200/9200+ chipsets as both retain the ability to run 32-bit apps on efficiency cores. Otherwise, Arm's newest generation of CPU cores is designed to push performance and energy efficiency up compared to previous designs. The new Cortex-X4 CPU core should deliver 15 percent higher performance than the Cortex-X3 and 40 percent better power efficiency. The speed improvement was made possible by increasing the L2 cache to two megabytes and enabling clock speeds of up to 3.4 GHz. As for the Cortex-A720 and Cortex-A520 CPUs, they should offer efficiency boosts of 20 percent and 22 percent, respectively over previous generation designs. Of course, these are estimates for reference designs, and as such they're not indicative of actual gains we'll see in custom mobile chips from Qualcomm, Samsung, and MediaTek. All the new cores are based on the Armv9.2 architecture, which adds a new security feature in the form of a new QARMA3 algorithm for pointer authentication. This is a memory security feature that makes it harder for malicious apps to create valid memory pointers and exploit buffer overflows and memory corruption vulnerabilities. While this functionality has been available for a while, manufacturers have thus far been reluctant to enable it as it does come with a cost to overall performance. Now that the CPU overhead for this has been reduced to around one percent, we're hoping to see more companies use it alongside things like Memory Tagging Extensions since they are meant to reduce the attack surface for hackers looking to steal your data or passwords. Another important announcement is that Arm is migrating from a reference phone SoC design with a 1+3+4 core cluster to a 1+5+2 layout. The idea behind this is to swap out two of the smallest CPU cores for two medium ones, which should result in 27 percent more performance on Android 13 and later versions. For flagship phones, Arm envisions a nine-core chip with a 1+4+4 configuration. Accompanying the two phone SoC designs is the company's "most powerful cluster ever built." The new DSU-120 compute cluster features ten Cortex-X4 cores and four Cortex-A720 cores with 32 megabytes of shared L3 cache, but companies have yet to build a DSU mega chip despite Arm touting higher single-threaded performance than Intel's Core i7 mobile CPUs. Some like Qualcomm are more interested in developing in-house solutions for laptops and 2-in-1s, and Arm is actively trying to prevent that from turning into a trend. In the GPU department, Arm revealed the latest flagship Immortalis-G720 design alongside Mali-G720 and Mali-G620 GPUs aimed at mid-range and entry-level mobile devices. These are based on the company's 5th-gen architecture, which brings improvements in key areas like memory power usage, HDR rendering, and geometry-related memory accesses. The Mali-G620 design tops out at five cores, while the Mali-G720 and Immortalis-G720 max out at nine and 16 cores, respectively. The Immortalis-G720 also includes a ray-tracing unit, but all three GPUs should bring 15 percent higher sustained gaming performance while using 40 percent less memory bandwidth compared to previous designs. These improvements were made possible by deferred vertex shading, a key feature of Arm's 5th-gen GPU architecture. Arm says it expects to see the first commercial products based around these new CPU and GPU designs hit the market in early 2024. The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a paradigm shift in the way industrial facilities operate by providing them with the tools to connect disparate systems and processes, streamline operations, and access and monitor data through the power of the internet. For businesses operating in the industrial sector, selecting the right IoT software is a critical decision that can impact their ability to thrive, innovate, and adapt to changing market conditions. To assist industrial businesses in this endeavor, we have curated a list of the finest IoT software solutions that cater to the needs of small to large-scale industrial enterprises, offering them a unique blend of functionality, flexibility, and scalability. Criteria for Finding the Best Industrial IoT Software of 2023 In order to identify the most suitable industrial IoT software for your business in 2023, we have conducted a thorough evaluation of multiple software solutions, using the following criteria as benchmarks for excellence: Adaptability: The best industrial IoT software must have the ability to seamlessly integrate with your current business needs. If the software lacks flexibility, it may result in an inefficient system that forces your business to conform with the software's limitations, rather than the other way around. The best industrial IoT software must have the ability to seamlessly integrate with your current business needs. If the software lacks flexibility, it may result in an inefficient system that forces your business to conform with the software's limitations, rather than the other way around. Scalability: It is crucial to choose a solution that can grow alongside your business. The ideal software should have the ability to easily expand its systems, add variables, and extend its reach as required. It is crucial to choose a solution that can grow alongside your business. The ideal software should have the ability to easily expand its systems, add variables, and extend its reach as required. Security: If the software collects sensitive data, it must have a proven track record of reliability and security. In case of any previous compromises, it's essential to understand how the issue was addressed. Consulting with a security expert or researching the software's security measures can help determine its dependability. If the software collects sensitive data, it must have a proven track record of reliability and security. In case of any previous compromises, it's essential to understand how the issue was addressed. Consulting with a security expert or researching the software's security measures can help determine its dependability. Integration: Unless the software provides a comprehensive range of services, it must offer integration with third-party applications or other tools used by different business departments. After a comprehensive review of various industrial IoT software solutions, we have determined that all of the listed solutions below meet these criteria. However, Nanoprecise has emerged as a clear standout, excelling in all aspects. Here are the Top 5 Best Industrial IoT Software 1. Nanoprecise Sci Corp Nanoprecise Sci Corp is an AI-based predictive maintenance solution provider that specializes in the implementation of Artificial Intelligence and IIoT technology for predictive asset maintenance and reducing the carbon footprint of manufacturing plants. The integrated solution harnesses the power of Industrial IoT, artificial intelligence, and data science applications to deliver holistic, cloud-based solutions for equipment lifecycle monitoring. By seamlessly integrating these cutting-edge technologies, the tool offers a comprehensive approach to monitoring and managing the entire lifecycle of equipment. Its cloud-based nature enables real-time data collection, analysis, and visualization, empowering businesses with actionable insights to optimize equipment performance, prevent downtime, and make informed maintenance decisions. Nanoprecise Sci Corp employs a predictive maintenance solution that enables your maintenance team to achieve improved accuracy in detecting and addressing potential issues before they escalate into costly breakdowns. Through routine analysis and efficient data collection, the solution optimizes the maintenance workflow, freeing up your team's valuable time and allowing them to concentrate on more critical tasks. With its ability to enhance the holistic life of machines, this solution empowers your business to achieve higher operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and set efficient energy consumption. Nanoprecise is an industry leader in optimizing businesses by offering a comprehensive suite of services that result in reduced carbon footprint and streamlined operations. At the core of their offerings is an automated AI-based analytics platform that efficiently processes raw data, catering to customers across various sectors. Their data-driven approach leads to improved environmental sustainability, as it facilitates the identification of areas where carbon emissions can be minimized. One of the main drivers of success for Nanoprecise is its commitment toward both ends of smart industrial IoT technology. This involves its state-of-the-art hardware with wi-fi and cellular communication abilities and a software package that handles proper notification distribution by avoiding nuisance alerts and prioritizing critical issues for your team. The company's global footprint continues to expand with new customers and partnerships worldwide, stretching across Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania. Nanoprecise continues to invest inward, ensuring its team, software, and solutions are up-to-date and proactive to respond to any future needs or considerations. Features Nanoprecise Solutions MachineDoctorTMis the world's first IIoT hardware that offers real-time insights about the health and performance of industrial assets. It works on Cellular networks (3G/4G/5G) using an e-sim to connect the machines to the internet. MachineDoctor is Atex and IECEx Zone 0 certified, enabling it to be used within explosive atmospheres or hazardous industrial environments. It also complies to hold IECEx Zone 0 certification and with international standards like C1D2, IP68, FCC/ISED/CE/UKCA & RED. RotationLFTM is a scalable and Sensor agnostic platform that monitors the condition of the machines in real-time and predicts their Remaining Useful Life. It receives data from MachineDoctorTM sensors and analyzes it using advanced signal processing algorithms to detect even small changes in the machine, thereby preventing unplanned downtime and increasing the overall efficiency. NrgMonitorTM is an Energy Efficiency & Health Analytics Platform that allows manufacturers to track energy efficiency and carbon footprint along with condition monitoring of their motor-driven equipment. It determines which assets are consuming higher energy and allows maintenance teams to mitigate inefficiencies in their energy consumption. Moreover, it helps them pinpoint faults with the potential to cause downtime, and identifies when a given equipment is approaching the end of its Remaining Useful Life. These innovative solutions offer several noteworthy features and benefits including edge computing capabilities that ensure continuous monitoring even without full-time connectivity. Additionally, Nanoprecise holds a Zone 0 compliance certification for hazardous areas, demonstrating their commitment to exceptional quality and adherence to stringent safety standards. Pros Enables real-time health insights, remaining useful life identification, and energy efficiency tracking Helps maintenance teams to streamline their day-to-day operations Holds industry certifications and complies with international standards Offers a diverse team of experienced professionals in various domains Expanding global footprint with new customers and partnerships worldwide Cons It may require a learning curve for usage The solution has the potential to replace existing systems, requiring careful consideration and integration 2. Augury Augury and Seebo is a world-class industrial IoT software that boosts efficiency by focusing on machine failure prevention and downtime management. It also comes with Machine Health diagnostics, like Nanoprecise, to ensure you know the lifeline of your machinery before they fail you. The solution also provides actionable alerts with specific error indicators, allowing you to know exactly what to fix and how to fix a problem. Notifications aren't just for crisis control. Augury provides them at the earliest sign of any developing malfunction. Augury removes communication barriers between teams with online collaboration tools and provides data and insights needed for condition-based maintenance. It also offers asset optimization through comparison across your facilities to know when your assets are optimal and how they should function compared to others. Features Monitor your systems 24/7 with Augury. For those dealing with different time zones, your monitoring properties can be accessed from anywhere, anytime. Diagnose your systems with AI-powered tools to detect issues and get explanations as to why the problem occurred. Aside from that, you get recommendations for the possible actions to take. Plan prioritization can be achieved through AI insights and expert support. You'll get a list of solutions and processes you can follow and choose which one you want to prioritize for your overall machine health. Pros It focuses on the beverage, building materials, chemicals, consumer packaged goods, food, forest products, pharmaceutical, and pulp & paper industries. It is built for global deployments and enables remote monitoring and systems control. The software also offers up to $100,000 for reimbursement should a piece of equipment fail if their AI diagnostics couldn't detect the issue. Cons Specializes in just a limited number of industries Limited sensor variable collection 3. Samotics Samotics' main goal is to help you save on energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint. To achieve this, the industry IoT software provides efficient systems with proper energy optimization through real-time monitoring and solution recommendations. With efficiency as the main goal, the solution provides data analytics that helps you make calculated decisions on reducing costs. It also helps pinpoint inefficiencies, giving you an idea where you spend more than you should. Aside from cost reduction, it also supports downtime elimination by providing insights into which assets or machines are underperforming. It also applies predictive maintenance to give you calculated data on your assets or machine's life expectancy. Features SAM4 Health is Samotic's solution to help you predict the health of your machines and assets. It gives you an estimate of when your assets and machines are expected to fail. SAM4 Energy helps spot inefficiencies in your system, giving you suggestions on how to optimize them. Pros Simplified solutions that focus on energy efficiency and machine health Focuses on water, stool, chemical, pulp & paper, oil & gas, wind energy, and other sectors Its systems are scalable and capable of handling aggressive expansions Cons Limited solutions Not as customizable as other software 4. I-care I-care is an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience in IoT predictive maintenance, with Wi-careTM as a Service (WaaS) solution to help reduce risks for safer, productive, and sustainable operations. Over the years, the company has developed sophisticated solutions that have stood the test of time. It also provides historical data showing how your assets and machines should perform and what solutions can be applied to increase efficiency. It provides installation support and monthly or bi-monthly analysis with a full product warranty for the contract period. Features Quality hardware with a flexible combination of network and sensors based on the client's strategy Cloud-based integrated reporting for security and easy remote access Portable Unite for Route Expertise is I-care's advanced data collector that closes the gap between portable maintenance and a database for your online tools Pros It has a 67-billion monitored replacement asset value (RAV) The company has a track record of reducing maintenance costs by 25% to 35% Visualization of machine health, KPIs, and diagnostic reports Cons Lacks most services compared to other providers Isn't as flexible as other solutions 5. Symphony AI Symphony AI brands itself as an enterprise AI SaaS that focuses on futuristic solutions for businesses by providing tailored AI applications for each business. The company focuses on rapid, real, and relevant results through its industry focus and expertise. The company generates tools with the help of AI to cater to every business's specific needs, allowing for automation and smart solutions wherever applicable. Its solutions also apply machine learning to help its AI self-improve and provide better solutions the longer it's used. The solutions study the specific industry manufacturing assets and help find ways to improve performance, uptime, process yield, and safety. Aside from industrial solutions, Symphony AI also has assets best for the retail sector. Features Fault detection is a standard practice that the solution offers. The solution pushes for downtime reduction through accurate data gathering to improve manufacturing yield. Futureproof is another thing that Symphony AI offers. Because of its secure and ever-evolving solutions, users are guaranteed scalability for the future. Extensible options allow users to build on the solution to customize processes or add value and capabilities. Pros The solution offers AI applications for advanced data scientists and straightforward business users. Integration with Excel ensures that its advanced solutions can still be integrated with businesses that use basic tools. Media integration lets users access promotions on top of systems, providing a tool for different departments within the business. Cons Smart solutions don't always cover the basics of industrial IoT software. Its data scientist solutions are hard to adapt to for businesses without a tech or IT department. Conclusion All-in-all, Nanoprecise has the best solutions for industrial IoT software, designed with the perfect balance of adaptation for the present and scalability for the future. Its preventive maintenance services have proven to increase efficiency and productivity and reduce costs. While other solutions provide a more niche approach, Nanoprecise covers all bases with a blend of AI, machine learning, IoT, and years of industry experience. 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Qualcomm believes that AI will demand more computing power than what we can see from the cloud. The mobile chipmaker also sees the opportunity as a transition to becoming an AI-focused company in the future. Qualcomm On its Way to Becoming Intelligence Edge Computing Firm The emergence of AI platforms such as ChatGPT and Google Bard has prompted the tech industry to start embracing the power of artificial intelligence. When OpenAI launched the popular chatbot, everyone was thinking if the next digital era would revolve around next-level machine learning and computing. Qualcomm's senior VP Alex Katouzian told the viewers during a recent keynote speech that the company is preparing to transition into an "intelligent edge computing" leader, according to Network World. The Computex show, which was held in Taipei, also shared a glimpse of the potential size of the AI market in the future. Qualcomm is betting that with the advancement of AI tools, the computing power that is required will be much higher than the usual cloud system can provide. Back in February, the smartphone processor maker unveiled that the 5G Advance-ready-modem RF system will first become available to the SnapdragonX75. Having said that, the company boasts that its processing power will be 2.5 times faster than the previous model. Qualcomm hopes that this innovation will help them succeed in attracting more customers who value the smartphone's power efficiency, coverage, and mobility. Because of the limitation of local devices in handling cloud data, the AI workloads might not be able to accommodate all of them at once, according to Katouzian in the same keynote speech. "As growth in the number of connected devices and data traffic continues to accelerate and data center costs climb, it simply won't be possible to send everything to the cloud," Katouzian said. Related Article: NVIDIA CEO Says Everyone Can Be a Programmer Thanks to Generative AI AI-Related Services Keep on Improving When a company meets the demand of the customers in the fastest possible way, this opportunity gives it leverage over other competitors. It drives an increase in shares as you comply with the needs of the users. More users are leaning into AI tools or any AI-related products, that's why it's important to reshape the business model into something new. Yahoo reports that Taiwan's Asustek Computer Inc. is making a huge shift to development by rolling out AI-centered services to its customers. The skyrocketing revenue that Nvidia experienced for the current quarter is a clear sign that adapting to changes is good. Qualcomm expects to see the same fate for the next few quarters of 2023 as it fell short last time. It discovered that the demand for mobile devices was slowly circulating globally. For now, we're in a waiting game to witness the shipment of the Oryon CPU architecture by 2024. This will be a game changer for Qualcomm Snapdragon devices when it comes to AI workloads. Read Also: Jobseekers Use ChatGPT to Create Resumes, but Beware of Eagle-Eyed HR Professionals 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. In a shocking revelation, TechRadar reports that a cybersecurity researcher recently discovered a massive data breach targeting SimpleTire, a known company that sells car tires and related services. According to a report by cybersecurity researcher Jeremiah Fowler, SimpleTire had been maintaining an unsecured database online, exposing sensitive customer information to anyone who knew where to look. How Much Data Are Compromised The exposed database, estimated at around 1TB, contained over 2.8 million customer records. These records included a wealth of personal information, such as full names, phone numbers, postal addresses, partial credit card numbers, and expiration dates. Read Also: T-Mobile Falls to Another Security Breach with 37 Million Subscribers Affected-What is It? Moreover, the database also housed wholesale information, references to authorized installers, refund requests, and sales and promotion images. Of particular concern is the fact that the database contained the last four digits of customers' credit card numbers. Although the first six digits of credit card numbers, known as the Issuer Identification Numbers (IIN), are publicly available, the exposure of the remaining four digits can significantly increase the risk of potential fraud. Fowler warns that with the right software, it becomes almost instant for threat actors to guess the missing six numbers and potentially obtain the entire credit card number. Weighing the Threats of the Breach The combination of exposed customer information, including names, home addresses, and expiration dates, creates an alarming scenario where criminals can easily create a comprehensive profile of their victims. The implications of this data exposure are far-reaching and pose a substantial threat to affected individuals. Cybercriminals can carry out various online scams with compromised information, ranging from wire fraud to identity theft. What Potential Victims Can Do TechRadar reports that Fowler promptly alerted SimpleTire through multiple email addresses, but the company's response was disappointingly slow. However, it took SimpleTire more than three weeks to acknowledge the breach and secure the database. As of now, the company has not provided any update about the situation. SimpleTire claims to have over 10,000 installers and more than 3,000 independent supply points, employing hundreds of people and supporting thousands of local businesses. This breach puts the privacy of millions of customers at risk and the reputation and trustworthiness of the company itself. In an era where data breaches have become alarmingly frequent, this incident serves as another reminder of the critical importance of securing customer information. Available data tells us that 41.6 million accounts have already been leaked through similar breaches in the first quarter of 2023 alone. Additionally, timely and transparent communication with customers following a breach is crucial in mitigating potential harm and rebuilding trust. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) mandates that companies that experience a data breach promptly notify individuals whose personal information has been compromised. This is so that the affected parties can take measures to reduce the likelihood that their information will be misused. As the investigation into this data breach unfolds, affected SimpleTire customers are advised to monitor their financial accounts closely, report any suspicious activity to their respective financial institutions, and consider freezing their credit to prevent unauthorized access. Stay posted here at Tech Times. Related Article: SchoolDude Data Breach: Hackers Steal 3 Million User Accounts, Per Brightly 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Space Forge, a Cardiff-based company, is set to test its groundbreaking heat shield, known as Pridwen, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 mission later this year, Space.com reports. The ingenious-looking space shield, supported by the UK Space Agency and the European Space Agency (ESA), aims to revolutionize spacecraft reentry by utilizing origami-inspired folding techniques. Pridwen, the Origami in the Sky Pridwen, developed over more than four years, is constructed from a high-temperature alloy fabric that can fold and unfold like origami. The shield's primary function is to protect spacecraft during their intense reentry through Earth's atmosphere, where temperatures can reach several thousand degrees Celsius. One of the key advantages of Pridwen is its ability to occupy minimal space when not in use. By using the folding technique inspired by origami, the shield can be neatly stored and deployed when needed. Read Also: NASA SLS Rocket Update: $6 Billion Over Budget, Delays Could Jeopardize Artemis Mission Upon deployment, Pridwen expands its size, creating a large surface area that facilitates the even distribution and radiation of heat away from the spacecraft without damaging the shield's fabric. Furthermore, the expanded size of the shield generates sufficient air drag, which slows down the descent of the spacecraft, rendering traditional parachutes unnecessary during landing. This feature makes Pridwen not only more practical but also more efficient than conventional ablative heat shields. How the Shield Will be Launched Space Forge's ForgeStar-1A mission will provide the first opportunity to test the Pridwen heat shield. It will be launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, marking an important milestone for both the company and the development of advanced heat shield technologies. Space Forge envisions Pridwen as a stepping-stone into the space manufacturing industry. "Supermaterials made in space will be able to save industries on Earth enormous amounts of energy, limiting their CO2 emissions in a way their terrestrial counterparts can never match," Andrew Bacon, CTO and co-founder of Space Forge, said in a statement. "Pridwen and Fielder are key parts of our plan to develop fully reusable manufacturing satellites that can kick start a new industrial revolution," he adds. By manufacturing high-value goods in zero-gravity environments and routinely returning them to Earth, the company aims to revolutionize manufacturing processes and open up new possibilities for various industries, including pharmaceuticals, superconductors, and superalloys. A Promising Future for Spaceflight The Pridwen project has received extensive support from the UK Space Agency and the European Space Agency's General Support Technology Programme. Throughout its development, the shield has undergone rigorous testing, including drop tests and rehearsals for capturing the probe with a hover net during its fall back to Earth. #Pridwen: A reusable heat shield that allows for the safe atmospheric re-entry of #satellites Unlike standard ablative heat shields, it won't burn up upon re-entry. Check out our test drop https://t.co/cfhF0g8UbZ@esa #Space #ForgeStar pic.twitter.com/BvpAKhyZ5R Space Forge (@Space_Forge) May 25, 2023 With its origami-inspired design and high-temperature alloy fabric, Pridwen represents a significant leap forward in heat shield technology. The successful deployment and utilization of this innovative shield on the ForgeStar-1A mission could pave the way for safer and more efficient spacecraft reentry while also opening up exciting possibilities for in-orbit manufacturing and the future of space exploration. Stay posted here at Tech Times. Related Article: UAE Unveils Mission to Explore the Solar System's Main Asteroid Belt 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Samsung is launching a new program in South Korea that will allow users to repair their own devices. The program launches as a way for users not just to repair their own smartphones but other gadgets as well. Samsung Now Allows Its Users to Perform Self-Repairs Through Kits While self-repair does come with risks, it is also an economical way to fix one's device. Aside from not needing to go out, sometimes repairs of certain items can be costly. Due to popular demand and as Apple has already started to launch its self-repair kits, Samsung is giving users the necessary tools and parts to repair certain devices. Regarding smartphones, the company reportedly offers self-repair kits for the Samsung Galaxy S20, Galaxy S21, and Galaxy S22 series. Newer Devices Could also Get Samsung's Self-Repair Kits Older units are not included in this program, just the devices mentioned in the story by GSM Arena. This could also imply that newer units from the list of Galaxy phones mentioned earlier would also be getting self-repair kits. Regarding phones, the program reportedly covers the display, its back cover, and charge ports regarding available parts. Users who purchase a self-repair kit will get the necessary tools to repair the device. Other Devices that Would Get Self-Repair Kits Include Three TV Models and the Galaxy Book Pro The report also noted that Samsung is now expected to add support for a wider range of devices going forward. While it covers three series of smartphones, its oldest being the Galaxy S20, it also has older parts for its Galaxy Book Pro 15.6-inch models. Samsung's self-repair kit would also reportedly cover three different TV models. These would be models that fall under the UN32N4000 series. What Users Get When They Buy a Laptop Self-Repair Kit Regarding laptop repairs, the kits would include their own display, touchpad, fingerprint/power button, front case, rear case, and even certain rubber elements. The South Korean company will also provide other things besides the parts and tools. The kits would have a repair manual and available video content supporting each repair. Those performing the repair can also check how to perform them on the official Samsung website. Read Also: Amazon UK Oppo Pad Air Sale: You Can Get It for Only $221! Is It Worth It? Users Can Also Perform Self-Diagnose Through the Samsung Members App A major part of repairing one's device is being able to diagnose what's wrong. This is something that users will also be able to do through the Samsung Members app, which can be downloaded on the Galaxy Store or Google Play Store. It was also noted that users could also choose to return used parts to Samsung to request a partial refund and safe deposit. This also comes announced by the company in a post on its Newsroom. It's also important to note that the program was reportedly available in South Korea, with little news on whether it will become available in other countries. So far, Samsung Electronics reportedly operates 178 service centers in Korea. Related Article: iPhone 15 Dummies Show More Accurate Design for Upcoming Lineup! Are There Changes? 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The rules for organizing the activities and services of ASAN Centers have changed, Trend reports. In this regard, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on amendments to the "Rules for the organization of activities and provision of services of ASAN Centers", approved by Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev No.706 on September 5, 2012. The amendment to the Rules added paragraph 3.2-1. In accordance with the new paragraph, if the documents required for the provision of services can be obtained from the relevant state body (institution) through the electronic government information system, these documents are not required from a citizen. In cases where access to such documents through the electronic government information system is not possible, their submission is requested by the relevant state body (institution) on the basis of a request with the consent of a citizen or is provided by a citizen. Meta Quest 3: With this new headset, Mark Zuckerberg wants to take on Apple Alduccio, the Italian with the most history in Madrid: from the gnocchis of Di Stefano to the pasta with ketchup of Sebastian Yatra and even secret access door Ginza, the all-you-can-eat (and limitless) buffet of Asian haute cuisine with which chef Victor Camargo breaks the cliches The mayor of a village in Meurthe-et-Moselle attacked for asking for calm in the village hall Virtual reality glasses, new Macbook... this is all Apple is expected to announce at WWDC Opened the third breast milk bank in Japan, the first outside of Tokyo Toyoaki Aichi The "Fujii Era" has arrived in earnest in the shogi world, where does its strength come from? | NHK Why did the Yungang Grottoes become the crystallization of the art of Sinicization of Buddhism? The transcendence of the return of the King to the bulls and the socialist Minister of Culture in the Corrida de la Prensa Even if it is said that "bicycles are roadways" ... Risk of accidents in street parking Analyze with data | NHK All the pink color ran out during the filming of "Barbie" Jim Hines, the first to run the 100 meters in less than 10 seconds, dies Rugby: The Story of Lee Seung-shin and His Family: Thoughts of His Late Mother to the World Cup Dzyuba's jokes, Fedotov's confession, the triumph of Akinfeev and Malcolm: what the RPL awards ceremony was remembered for Izumiya, representative of the World Championships in Athletics "I want to fight with confidence to break the record" "It's not just tennis": at Roland-Garros, spectators enjoy the matches and the sun Janne: We have to use Zlatan in some way They create the first European Sex Championship, in which the actress Selva Lapiedra will represent Spain After the US debt ceiling is raised, it may welcome the wave of US bond issuance, and the liquidity cloud once again hangs over the US stock market The four major categories of beverages are increasing prices step by step, and the method of competition may be outside the price Japan and ASEAN Memorandum of Understanding for Further Economic Cooperation after 50 Years of Friendly Cooperation Under the "trading shortage", Wall Street investment banks are brewing a third wave of layoffs, and Chinese employees have also been affected Real estate: demand at half-mast, cost of materials and land... The new construction market is swimming in the doldrums District heating: Three times as many connections possible as before China's commodity index in May was 5.100%, up 7.0 percentage points from the previous month Visit Beijing's second-hand housing agency stores: the number of listings will increase, and the market will still build a bottom EUROPE 1 AND YOU - Would you be willing to pay more for your water when it becomes scarcer? USA: Will US banks soon have to prove more equity? Airlines expect more than twice as much profit in 2023 The Government fails with the reforms of the Recovery Plan: "The balance is very disappointing" "Will live with dad": the heroes of the RT publication are trying to challenge the decision of the guardianship authorities to transfer the child to the biological father Hakan Fidan. How did the shadow man become the leader of Turkish diplomacy? In his speech, the general secretary profoundly answered the great significance of the "two combinations" and pointed out the direction for striving to create a new culture that belongs to our time An accident between two trucks causes large delays at the exit of Madrid on the A-4 "Explain the word hecatomb": an article by the journalist of EL MUNDO Lucia Mendez falls in the Ebau of Murcia Pistorius ahead of NATO maneuvers over Germany: "We are doing everything we can to keep the impact on the population as low as possible" On the road to the Games: D-330 for the future metro terminus near the Olympic Village Kindberg found right by the Court of Appeal preliminary investigation into the bribery case to be supplemented The German Parliament suspends its visit to Andalusia due to the conflict with the Donana strawberry so as not to interfere in the elections The worst wine in the supermarket is entered in an international competition and wins the gold medal Aldi, on the 'strawberry war' with Germany: "We will only work with producers who make reasonable use of irrigation water" Two Italian spies and a Mossad agent among four killed in boat sinking on Lake Maggiore The Prosecutor's Office asks for 6 years in prison for the rapper Morad for attacking the Mossos with a Taser defense A woman mistakenly diagnosed with schizophrenia wakes up after 20 catatonic years in the US thanks to a lupus treatment The wedding of Sol de Medina and Pedro Dominguez-Manjon brings together Spanish and international high society in Seville In the absence of Russia. Secret meeting of the leaders of the world's largest intelligence services in Singapore Polish mercenaries in Ukraine said they participated in the attack on the Belgorod region Chongqing bombing survivors: Japanese government does not apologize for compensation The pain in my heart can never be erased What are the precautions for the college entrance examination in 2023? The Ministry of Education issued ten questions and ten answers They create the first European Sex Championship, in which the actress Selva Lapiedra will represent Spain Communities 2019 - Privacy The information on this site is from external sources that are not under our control.The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on amendments to the "Procedure for holding a competition in connection with recruitment to the customs authorities", Trend reports. This decree was approved by the decree of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev dated November 12, 2010 No. 349. According to the amendments, if the documents or information required in connection with admission to the customs service can be obtained from the relevant state body (institution) through the electronic government (e-government) information system, these documents or information are not required from a candidate wishing to participate in the competition. Moreover, in cases where access to such documents or information via the e-government information system is not possible, their submission is requested by the relevant state body (institution) on the basis of a request with the consent of the candidate wishing to participate in the competition, or provided by the candidate himself. An AT&T truck parked off Harding Boulevard on Monday, Sept. 12, 2022, outside the Advanced Traffic Management/Emergency Operation Center, left, which houses the East Baton Rouge city-parish 911 call center, which has been experiencing dropped 911 calls. AT&T has been troubleshooting the problem in an effort to repair, while calls are being transferred to backup 911 lines to mitigate the problem. Callers who experienced dropped calls were asked to call back. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. New discussions have been held within the Baku Network expert platform, Trend reports. The guests of the program were the Azerbaijani MP Tural Ganjaliyev and the Member of the European Parliament for Germany Helmut Geuking. The guests exchanged views on the mine terror carried out by Armenia against Azerbaijan, the massive mining of Azerbaijani territories during the Armenian occupation, the de-mining of the territories liberated from the occupation [as a result of the 2020 second Karabakh war], and the large-scale restoration and construction work carried out. Negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, ongoing contacts towards the signing of a peace treaty, Armenia's non-constructive position, the activities of Armenian armed groups in Azerbaijan's Karabakh [which haven't yet been withdrawn contrary to a trilateral statement signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian and Russian leaders following the second Karabakh war], and other issues were also discussed. During the discussions, Geuking spoke about Azerbaijan's grandiose plans to restore Karabakh. Besides, he said that the massive mining of Karabakh is a crime against humanity. LSU students from professor Robert Manns political communication class who organized with the university and artist Marc Verret of Marc Fresh Art to create the first creative crosswalk on the campus pose on the finished crosswalk on Tower Drive on Friday, May 12, 2023 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. With a pair of blue pyjamas featuring a kangaroo, love heart and her logo, Australian designer Rebecca Vallance has joined the Qantas fashion family. The pyjamas, with matching amenities kits, are branded with QF 3 and QF 4, the only flights by the national carrier distributing the Rebecca Vallance capsule range to business class customers for a limited time. Rebecca Vallance in Qantas business class, modelling the pyjamas she has designed for the launch of the Sydney to New York route. Credit: Ashleigh Larden These flights relaunch the airlines Sydney to New York route, starting June 14, which stops in Auckland rather than Los Angeles. Business class passengers in the new 787 Dreamliner aircraft can model the pyjamas with matching eye masks on the 17-hour leg from New Zealand to New York. I am obsessed with the Qantas pyjamas and have a drawer dedicated to them in my wardrobe, Vallance says. Theres nothing like that grey marle cotton, it feels so soft and comfortable, and Im excited that we could do ours in French navy. Bob Katters viral, snarling rant in 2017 about crocodile attacks in north Queensland put the professional north Queenslander on the cusp of were calling it national treasure status, for some. While many of our fellow southerners might baulk at the veteran MPs views on issues such as immigration and LGBTQ issues, one of the planets largest bookie companies views the nations current longest-serving federal MP who just turned 78 as very marketable content. The latest step in Katters meme-ification is brought to you by Ladbrokes, which is promoting a social media clip featuring the member for Kennedy retelling the life and times of Queensland State of Origin coach Billy Slater. Dropped just in time for Wednesday nights Origin opener played in Adelaide, for some reason the video looks an awful lot like advertising for the betting company, although were assured Katter didnt get a cent for his voice-over work. A painting by an acclaimed Indigenous artist that was last sold in the 1970s for less than $800 and hung in a suburban home for decades is on sale at a Melbourne gallery for $500,000. An expert describes the piece, called Mikantji and Tywerl, as one of the most significant works in the history of Aboriginal art. DLan Davidson, director of DLan Contemporary gallery, with the painting Mikantji and Tywerl, by Kaapa Tjampitjinpa. Credit: Justin McManus For half a century, its whereabouts was not widely known. The mixed media on fibreboard work, created by the late Kaapa Tjampitjinpa in 1971, had for decades hung in the hall of an Adelaide house. The original owner, anthropologist Margaret King-Boyes, died in 2011 and her family is now selling the painting. Students at Gledswood Hills Public School were in trouble. It was 1.30pm last Friday and the bathrooms had been vandalised: hardware had been ripped off and the walls had been pelted with wet toilet paper. Staff at the school said the students spent much of their break afterwards being lectured about vandalism and retaught about the responsible use of public property as part of the schools positive behaviour for learning strategy. Students at Gledswood Hills Public School in Sydneys south-west were lectured about vandalism after the bathrooms were damaged on Friday. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer But parents did not see anything positive about the situation at the south-west Sydney primary school. Mother Hanna Braga took to a local Facebook page to complain about how all the children from years 3 to 6 were detained in the hall at lunch for something not everyone had done. The online discussion escalated: the school was likened to a prison camp; another described the event as inducing trauma while one parent vowed that the teachers present will be getting in trouble. The PwC tax leaks scandal is not Deb ONeills first rodeo. The NSW Labor senator has wielded the cudgels of the upper house to hammer regulators of the cosmetic surgery industry, campaign against an underbelly of exploitation in the franchising sector, and put a spotlight on a whistleblowers claims of sexual harassment at AMP. But ONeills otherwise low public profile has been boosted through the unfurling PwC drama, as she and Greens senator Barbara Pocock lead a full-frontal assault on the consulting giant over the leak of confidential information about the governments tax plans. NSW senator Deb ONeill during a Senate estimates hearing at Parliament House in Canberra on Tuesday. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen This is about cover-up. This is about PwC trying to stem the flow of an artery thats well and truly open now, ONeill told the ABC on Tuesday. The Tax Practitioners Board is demanding PwC name the nine partners the firm stood down this week as part of a further investigation it is conducting into the tax leak, which the prime minister has labelled a shocking scandal. Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe also said the company must be transparent and name the partners involved if it wanted to earn back trust. Investigations into the PwC tax scandal are ongoing. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen The Tax Practitioners Board cancelled former PwC partner Peter Collins registration in December, and banned him from reapplying for registration for two years, after finding he had shared confidential government briefings on multinational tax reform with PwC partners and clients to help them sidestep the laws. Since then, the board tabled 144 pages of documents showing more than 50 PwC staff and partners had been included in emails discussing confidential government tax plans. CHISINAU, Moldova, May 31. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has arrived in the Republic of Moldova to participate in the 2nd European Political Community Summit, Trend reports. At Chisinau International Airport, the head of state was met by officials. Labor says it will unwind laws introduced by the Coalition a decade ago that gave businesses in the City of Sydney two votes in what was a failed attempt to oust Lord Mayor Clover Moore. Likening it to the dictatorship North Korea, Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig said the 2014 changes had made the City of Sydney probably one of the most undemocratic systems of any election system in Australia. The NSW government is set to repeal an almost decade-old law which gives businesses up to two votes in local elections in the City of Sydney. The rules were widely seen as an attempt to oust Lord Mayor Clover Moore. Credit: James Alcock The changes, made by then premier Mike Baird, automatically enrolled businesses to vote and gave them the power to select two electors. This applied to any corporation that was the sole owner, rate-paying lessee or occupier of any rateable land. The rules applied only to the City of Sydney, on the basis the local government area was home to a high number of business and property owners who contributed to but did not live in the LGA. Queensland LNP Opposition Leader David Crisafulli will vote against the Voice to Parliament but not campaign against it, with his partys MPs free to vote as they wish. But he echoed suggestions by federal party leader and fellow Queenslander Peter Dutton about a risk rejected by prominent legal figures the body could undermine Australias system of government. My MPs will be able to vote the way they wish and they can choose to campaign if they wish one side or another: Queensland Opposition Leader David Crisafulli. Credit: Matt Dennien Crisafulli made the comments on Wednesday after declining to state a position on the issue for months, saying he was mindful of his leadership position and believing it was important I put my views across. I think every Australian wants to know that the parliament, the people who are elected, ultimately can be held accountable, and if theres a body that could override that, that that is a big risk, the Gold Coast-based MP said. The odds for the current deputy lengthened by the minute as the day went on. It seemed he was all but done after Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson declared she had been endorsed by a clear majority of her 26 United Workers Union-aligned colleagues from Labors 40 MP-strong left faction. This meant she was in the hot seat to convince the rest of the party she had the support of the most dominant sub-faction of the most dominant faction of Labors 74-person caucus. But that bold statement hid the fact that she had actually only secured 17 votes compared to Cooks 11. The new premier would need 38 MPs to endorse them all up for consensus to be inevitable. This result was quickly leaked and was a beacon to other Labor MPs that Cook had a path to victory should the party deem it so. Loading And so it was. At some point Cook spoke to Rita Saffioti about joining together as a premier/deputy duo which proved irresistible to the left factions 17 metal worker-aligned MPs who unanimously got behind it. In addition, 26 right faction MPs also supported this ticket and when confronted with the bleak arithmetic, Sanderson conceded defeat. Cook, who also hails from the UWU but didnt have the backing of its secretary Carolyn Smith, demonstrated political deftness to convince the metalworkers and right faction to back him. In doing so, he staged one of the most remarkable and quickest comebacks in a Labor leadership contest in modern history. Rita Saffioti Transport minister Rita Saffioti (centre) will be promoted to deputy premier. Credit: Twitter Roleystone Rita was the outsider in the race for premier because of her lack of factional allegiances, but her interest from the get-go gave her brilliant leverage to carve out a sweet gig in the long run. She had been canvassing the party wider than Cook and Sanderson and has been a strong performer both in the party and in the public eye, but it was not meant to be. Cook came to her with a proposition that she take on the role as deputy in his new government which she accepted and it was this combination that got the AMWU and right faction across the line. She will now likely also take on Treasury, a role which she has always coveted, which will give any future leadership bid more firepower. AMWU-aligned MPs (metalworkers) Ministers Stephen Dawson and David Templeman speak to media after endorsing Roger Cook to become the next premier of WA. Credit: Hamish Hastie The UWU casts a long shadow in the left faction and it is often its MPs that are elevated to ministerial positions, but on Tuesday it was the AMWUs 17 MPs that were the kingmakers. Sandersons chances were shot down spectacularly just after 3pm when Stephen Dawson and David Templeman declared the AMWU MPs would endorse Cook and urged Saffioti to run as his deputy. Those votes, coupled with Cooks UWU 11 and the right faction, put leadership out of reach for Sanderson. This move revealed a split in Labors left unlike anything before it and has significantly changed power bases that have always seemingly rested with the UWU. If the AMWU can side with the right, anything can happen. The AMWU deal will come at a cost to Cook so expect to see more AMWU MPs rising through the ranks and existing ministers like Dawson taking on more high-profile portfolios. The right About 25 MPs in Labors right faction, known as Progressive Labor, were crucial in Cooks victory and by lunch they had already decided to support him. Like the AMWU, this will come at a cost to Cook, and some UWU MPs and ministers may have to have their wings clipped for some caged MPs in the right to spread theirs. In the long run the faction will boost its presence in debates in the parliamentary party after being shrunk into muteness by the dominating UWU and left faction for so many years. In another win for the right they did not have to make any public statements supporting any candidate in anyway, leaving many of them with clean hands. Losers Amber Jade Sanderson Health Minister Amber Jade Sanderson. Credit: Hamish Hastie Sanderson must now retreat and run the numbers as to why her union did not show the solidarity it is so famous for. She will also likely go back to the health portfolio with its many and varied challenges. Her leadership prospects are dented but not dead in the water and by agreeing to pull out of the race early and not take the challenge to a ballot of all Labor party members she keeps some powder dry for future leadership tilts. The deal established consortiums of South Korean and Polish companies that will build the weapons, maintain the fighter jets and provide the framework to eventually supply other European states, said Lukasz Komorek, director of the Export Projects Office at the state-owned Polish Armaments Group (PGZ). Loading That will include building South Korean arms on licence in Poland, officials in Seoul and Warsaw said. Plans call for 500 of 820 tanks and 300 of 672 howitzers to be built in Polish factories starting in 2026. We dont want to just play the role of subcontractor, technological transfer provider and the purchaser, Komorek said. We can both create the synergy and use our experiences to conquer the European markets. Sash Tusa, a defence and aerospace analyst at Britain-based Agency Partners, said that although both countries have well-established defence industries, the long-term plans would face hurdles. Political winds could shift, he said, reducing demand for weapons such as howitzers and tanks. Even if production and demand held up, European countries might want deals of their own with South Korea similar to what Poland has co-production agreements that could create jobs and stimulate industry, Tusa said. It may work for some countries at very, very low volume, he added of Polish-brokered South Korean weapons sales, discussing challenges the joint operation might face. South Korean soldiers stand guard at the military demarcation line in the demilitarized zone (DMZ) in the border village of Panmunjom, South Korea. Credit: Alamy Speedy delivery At a Hanwha Aerospace factory on South Koreas southern coast, six huge automated robots and more than 150 production workers are churning out 47-ton K9s destined for Poland. The self-propelled guns use NATO-standard 155mm ammunition, have computerised fire-control systems, are designed to easily integrate into command and control networks, and offer performance comparable to more expensive Western options. Major powers such as Australia and India operate them. To meet demand, the company expects to add about 50 more workers and more production lines, production manager Cha Yong-su said during a recent tour. The robots handle about 70 per cent of the welding work on a K9 and are key to expanding capacity, he said. They operate an average of eight hours per day but can work around the clock if needed. Basically, we can meet any amount of order you want, Cha said. South Koreas offer to provide weapons faster than almost anyone was a key consideration, Polish officials say. The first shipment of 10 K2s and 24 K9s arrived in Poland in December, just months after the deals were signed, and at least five more tanks and 12 additional howitzers have been delivered since. By contrast, Germany, another major arms manufacturer, has yet to deliver any of the 44 new Leopard tanks Hungary ordered in 2018, said Oskar Pietrewicz, senior analyst at the Polish Institute of International Affairs. Loading Countries interest in South Koreas offer may only grow considering the limited production capacity of Germanys defence industry, which is a major arms supplier in the region, he said. Executives in South Koreas arms industry say that will be a selling point for future clients. A close relationship between South Koreas military and its arms industry allows them to rearrange domestic orders to make room for export production and expand production in the countrys highly industrialised manufacturing base, officials said. They put things together in weeks or months that would take us years, a European defence industry executive said, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter. Constant tensions with North Korea mean the Souths military production lines are running and its weapons have been developed, tested, and upgraded in high-pressure situations, said Cho Woorae, global business and strategy vice president at Korea Aerospace Industries. South Korea had promoted its weapons to Poland before the war, but the invasion of Ukraine which Russia calls a special operation increased Polands interest, said Kim Hyoung Cheol, deputy director at the Defence Acquisition Program Administration. After the Polish defence ministers visit in May 2022 to observe South Korean weapons, and President Yoon Suk Yeol met with Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda on the sidelines of the NATO summit in June that year, the stage was set for the huge deal that was finalised a month later, Kim said. South Koreas weapons are designed to be compatible with US and NATO systems another selling point. The country is the third-largest supplier of weapons to NATO and its member states, accounting for 4.9 per cent of arms purchases, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). That is still far behind the United States, which accounts for 65 per cent, and France at 8.6 per cent. South Korean Air Force FA-50 fighter jets, manufactured by Korea Aerospace Industries, during a joint live-fire exercise with US army in Pocheon last week. Credit: Bloomberg Joint production Officials in Seoul told Reuters that they pitched Poland on producing South Korean weapons there to make it easier to deliver to European customers. The Korean government is promoting military diplomacy and defence cooperation so that the relationship with the purchasing country can develop into various partnerships beyond just a seller-buyer relationship, South Koreas Defence Ministry said in a statement. Polands Ministry of National Defence did not respond to a written request for comment. South Koreas weapons are designed to be compatible with US and NATO systems. Credit: Bloomberg Oh said Hanwha Aerospace operated successful technology-sharing arrangements in India, Egypt, and Turkey. Because of that, I dont think theres much to worry about regarding capacity, he said. The 2022 arms deal began with South Korean companies signing a framework agreement with the Polish government. Those companies formed consortiums with PGZ and its subsidiaries, which signed the final deal with the Polish government, he said. Loading We have the one entity only, one big consortium that is representing the whole project from the perspective of the industry, Komorek said, noting that the deal encompassed many projects. In the past year, South Korea has launched its first home-grown space rocket, saw the maiden flight of its domestically designed KFX fighter, and announced billions of dollars in deals. For most other countries, that would be an agenda for a decade, one executive at a European defence firm told Reuters, speaking anonymously because of the sensitivity of the matter. Weve underestimated Korea for a long time. Yoon told Reuters last month that South Korea might extend its support for Kyiv beyond humanitarian and economic aid if Ukraine comes under a large-scale civilian attack. Seoul has since approved at least some South Korean weapons components for use in Ukraine. The countrys sales in Asia which accounted for 63 per cent of its defence exports between 2018 and 2022, according to SIPRI come amid regional arms build-ups driven by security concerns and the US-China rivalry. South Korea is developing its KFX fighter jet with Indonesia, and Polish leaders have signalled interest in that project. Malaysia this year bought nearly $US1 billion in FA-50s, and Seoul is in the running to win a $US12 billion deal to supply Australias next infantry fighting vehicle. Asian countries see us as a very attractive partner for defence deals as we all seek to hedge against the rising tensions, a diplomat in Seoul said. Were a US ally, but not the US. A woman who accused Joe Biden of sexual assault has turned up in Moscow, announcing plans to seek Russian citizenship. She is also receiving the help of a woman convicted of spying for Russia. Tara Reade in Moscow. Credit: @ReadeAlexandra/Twitter Tara Reade, who had once served on Bidens Senate staff, filed a complaint against the then-presidential candidate in April 2020, accusing him of sexual assault in 1993. In a statement published on Kremlin-owned Sputnik overnight, Reade suggested her life was in danger. The totalitarian phenomenon, French philosopher Jean-Francois Revel once noted, is not to be understood without making an allowance for the thesis that some important part of every society consists of people who actively want tyranny: either to exercise it themselves or much more mysteriously to submit to it. Its an observation that should help guide our thinking about the reelection this week of Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Turkey. And it should serve as a warning about other places including the Republican Party where autocratic leaders, seemingly incompetent in many respects, are returning to power through democratic means. A supporter of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan holding a Turkish flag shouts slogans outside AK Party offices in Istanbul, Turkey. Credit: AP Thats not quite the way Erdogans close-but-comfortable victory in Sundays runoff over former civil servant Kemal Kilicdaroglu is being described in many analyses. The president, they say, has spent 20 years in power tilting every conceivable scale in his favour. Erdogan has used regulatory means and abused the criminal-justice system to effectively control the news media. He has exercised his presidential power to deliver subsidies, tax cuts, cheap loans and other handouts to favoured constituencies. Washington: Australia will not shy away from addressing Indias human rights record even as it seeks to finalise a trade deal with the Modi government by the end of the year, says Trade Minister Don Farrell. One week after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Sydney for bilateral talks with Anthony Albanese, the federal government has moved to accelerate the conclusion of a long-awaited comprehensive economic co-operation agreement, which would improve tariffs, open up new markets between the two countries and bring Australia closer to a key Indo-Pacific partner. Negotiations for the agreement were launched in 2011, suspended in 2016, and then revived again in 2021. However, speaking as he concluded a trip to the US, Farrell said told this masthead he would like to see a deal inked by the end of the year. Asked how the government would approach its complex alliance with India which has come under scrutiny over the persecution of ethnic minorities, its neutrality over Russias war in Ukraine, and its imprisonment of human rights activists he replied: We never step away from our support for human rights thats in our DNA. Toyota President Akio Toyoda Said "Motorist Choice Is The Future, The enemy is carbon, not internal combustion engines"; Motorist-Choice Has Been The TACH Position For 25 Years! May 30 2023; Wall Street Journal bashes California for gas car ban, asks why Americans can't buy the cars 'they want' Joins The Auto Channel 25 year old CHOICE position SEE ALSO: Toyota Updates EV Thinking SEE ALSO: New Toyota Boss Breathes New Life Into Akio Toyoda's Future Vision; PHEV with 120+ Miles of EV Range SEE ALSO: OK China You Win SEE ALSO: Toyota (the last best chance to stop the EV fairy-tale) folded like an origami chicken and facilitated the elimination of freedom of choice by agreeing to stop selling real cars in California after 2035. Cluck cluck SEE ALSO: Toyota Chief Says "Silent Majority" Has Doubts About Pursuing Only EVs SEE ALSO: Toyota's Chief Scientist on Hydrogen vs. Lithium-Ion Batteries & Why We Need Both SEE ALSO: Ford Splits Into Two Car Makers - Real and Electric SEE ALSO: Hydrogen News and Tutorial Archive, It's Not MPG But MPG Of What? SEE ALSO: The End Of The Internal Combustion Engine? Really? SEE ALSO: Electric Vehicles Speed Ahead on a Bridge to Nowhere SEE ALSO: Toyota Promises Motorist Choice No Matter What - Never Mind SEE ALSO: There's nothing wrong with the internal combustion engine that a better fuel won't fix. Don't throw the baby out with the bath water! OKAYAMA, Japan - November 13, 2021: Bloomberg reported that Akio Toyoda, the president of the worlds biggest car manufacturing Toyota, spent the weekend swerving around a racetrack in western Japan in a Corolla. But its no ordinary version of the bestselling car. Toyoda drove a version specially equipped with Toyotas new in-house hydrogen engine, which propels the vehicle by burning the fuel much like traditional engines use petrol or diesel. Alongside Mazda, Toyota showcased vehicles running on carbon-neutral propellants in a three-hour road race in Okayama. Toyotas hydrogen-powered car underscores the companys belief that a wide variety of vehicle types including hybrids, hydrogen-powered cars and electrics (EVs) will play a role in decarbonising its fleet over the coming decades. That puts the company at odds with others, such as General Motors, Jaguar Land Rover and Volvo, which say theyll sell only EVs two decades from now. The enemy is carbon, not internal combustion engines, Toyoda said on Saturday. We need diverse solutions thats the path toward challenging carbon neutrality. Toyota says that different emissions-reducing car technologies are needed for different regions of the world. EVs are a good option for places like Europe, where batteries can be charged with electricity derived largely from renewable sources, it says. Other options, such as hydrogen or hybrids, may be a better fit in other regions. The technology is separate from the companys other big bet on hydrogen hydrogen fuel cells such as those that power the Mirai passenger car. While fuel cells use the chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity, which in turn runs a motor, the hydrogen engine burns the element just like petrol or diesel. See This Complete Article HERE Traditional engines only need to be tweaked in minor ways, such as changing out the fuel supply and injection systems, to make them capable of running on hydrogen, Toyotas chief engineer Naoyuki Sakamoto said last month. Akio Toyoda, CEO of Toyota Motors was the first to raise concerns about the problems of betting everything on electric cars Akio Toyoda, CEO of Toyota Motors was the first to raise concerns about the problems of betting everything on electric cars Those comments from the most important person in the world?s largest automaker received strong criticism, especially from environmental sectors, who accused Toyoda of worrying only about their numbers not dropping and of take care of your company over global interests those affected by the automotive industry. But Toyoda is not the only one who thinks something like that. In an interview with Automotive News Europe, the BMW Development Manager Frank Weber, said the transition to electric vehicles will not happen overnight. And whats up several questions to be answered yet: When will the system be ready to absorb all those battery electric vehicles? This is about renewable electric power generation and infrastructure. Are the people ready? Is the system ready? Is the charging infrastructure ready? . Hydrogen Future? Toyota, Shell Among Giants Betting $10.7 Billion on Hydrogen - Toyota and four of its biggest car-making peers are joining oil and gas giants including Royal Dutch Shell Plc and Total SA with plans to invest a combined 10 billion euros ($10.7 billion) in hydrogen-related products within five years. Sandy Munro: Toyota's Grand BEV Misdirection Common to the corporate philosophies of all four companies is the desire to contribute to a prosperous society through mobility. To continue to be an essential force of transformation in the world, the four companies intend to promote the use of environmentally friendly vehicles and increase the value of mobility in the world's social systems. By joining forces, MFTBC and Hino would create synergies and enhance the competitiveness of Japanese truck manufacturers, helping to strengthen the foundation of the Japanese and Asian automotive industries and contributing to their customers, stakeholders and society. Both Daimler Truck and Toyota count global full lineups tailored to local needs among their corporate strengths andtoward achieving carbon neutralityvalue multi-pathways that provide diverse options based on local conditions and how their customers use vehicles. PLANO, Texas (May 31, 2023) Advancing its commitment to vehicle electrification and building where it sells, Toyota will assemble an all-new, three-row, battery electric SUV at Toyota Kentucky starting in 2025. The companys first U.S.-assembled BEV will be powered by batteries from Toyota North Carolina. The new battery plant, which is currently under construction, will receive an additional $2.1 billion investment to support the companys drive toward carbon neutrality. We are committed to reducing carbon emissions as much as possible and as soon as possible, said Ted Ogawa, president and chief executive officer, Toyota Motor North America. To achieve this goal, customers must have access to a portfolio of options that meet their needs now and in the future. It is exciting to see our largest U.S. plant, Toyota Kentucky, and our newest plant, Toyota North Carolina, drive us into the future together with BEV and battery production for our expanding electrified lineup. Kentucky to Launch Toyotas First U.S. BEV Todays announcement confirms that Toyota Kentucky will lead the companys vehicle carbon reduction efforts with its first U.S.assembled BEV, a 3-row SUV. Toyota Kentucky set the standard for Toyota vehicle manufacturing in the U.S. and now were leading the charge with BEVs, said Susan Elkington, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky. Our incredible team of Kentuckians is excited to take on this new challenge while delivering the same great quality and reliability that our customers expect. The decision to assemble a BEV in the U.S. demonstrates the companys belief in electric vehicles and its commitment to design, engineer and produce vehicles for the market. This is incredible news that furthers Kentucky as the center of the electric vehicle sector, said Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear. Toyota has long been a vital part of the automotive industry in the commonwealth, and now the company is positioned to help lead us into the future. I want to thank the companys leaders for their commitment to our states incredible workforce, and I cant wait to see whats next for Toyota and Kentucky. North Carolina Brings the Power Toyota is investing $2.1 billion in its North Carolina battery manufacturing plant for new infrastructure to support future expansion. This brings total investment in Toyota North Carolina to $5.9 billion. Toyotas significant investment in our state, now nearly $6 billion, is terrific news and more evidence that North Carolina is a leader in the clean energy economy, said North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. Toyota believes in our world-class workforce to power its future success and I appreciate this enormous commitment here. The facility will be Toyotas hub for developing and producing lithium-ion batteries needed for its expanding portfolio of electrified vehicles. Production at the Liberty plant is slated to begin in 2025 with six battery production lines, four for hybrid electric vehicles and two for BEVs. The future is bright at Toyota North Carolina, said Sean Suggs, president, Toyota Battery Manufacturing, North Carolina. With this proactive infrastructure investment, we will be able to quickly support future expansion opportunities to meet growing customer need. Additional Quotes from North Carolina Officials Toyotas continued commitment in North Carolina confirms our status as a manufacturing powerhouse, said North Carolina Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger. This expansion further cements our thriving partnership, and it wouldnt be possible without the reforms the General Assembly implemented to transform North Carolina into a jobs-friendly state. Toyota and the State of North Carolina have formed a strong partnership that will transform the future for North Carolina, said Tim Moore, Speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives. Our state has proven to be again and again one of the best locations for companies of all sizes to do business, and Toyotas continued investment in our state is indicative of that recognition. Clear Leader in Electrification A pioneer in electrified vehicles, Toyota has put more than 23 million hybrids, plug-in hybrids, fuel cell electric and battery electric vehicles on the road globally more than all other automakers combined. The company currently offers 22 electrified vehicle options in the U.S. across the Toyota and Lexus brands, the most among any automaker. By 2025, the company plans to have an electrified option available for every Toyota and Lexus model globally. Over the last two years, the company has invested more than $8 billion in its U.S. manufacturing operations primarily to support its product electrification efforts. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The President of Estonia Alar Karis sent a letter to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day, Trend reports. "Dear Colleague, Please allow me to convey my sincere congratulations to you and to the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan. These greetings are sent with high hopes and in confidence that the friendship of our people and good cooperation between Estonia and Azerbaijan will continue to develop successfully in the years to come. Cooperation between likeminded countries is extremely valuable, especially at a time when Russia-Ukraine war and its impact on the whole world countries. We both know that there is no other way for our countries than to help Ukraine win this war. It is also of the utmost importance that we continue our work towards ending wars, and ensuring justice and accountability. We also hope that mutually beneficial peace agreement will be concluded between Azerbaijan and Armenia, which will have a positive and long-lasting impact for peace and prosperity in the entire region of South Caucasus. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you sincerely for your congratulations and good wishes expressed upon the Independence Day of the Republic of Estonia. I hope that the warm friendship and the excellent relations between our two countries will continue to serve our states and nations. Please accept, dear Colleague, the assurances of my highest consideration as well as my best wishes for the welfare and prosperity of Azerbaijan and its people," the letter said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Political consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan and Pakistan took place in Baku on May 31, 2023, the Azerbaijani ministry told Trend. The delegation of Azerbaijan was headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Elnur Mammadov, and Foreign Secretary of Pakistan Asad Majeed Khan. The sides exchanged their views on cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, agriculture, education, culture, energy, tourism and other spheres. Moreover, the importance of mutual visits, in particular parliamentary diplomacy, was highlighted, and its positive impact on many areas of bilateral relations was noted. Mammadov spoke in detail about the current situation in the region in the post-conflict period (second Karabakh war), the process of mine clearance, renovation and construction in the Azerbaijani territories liberated from Armenian occupation, as well as about the Great Return program, green energy and smart city projects. Pakistan's firm position during the second Karabakh war, as well as its unconditional support and solidarity with Azerbaijan were emphasized. In the discussions, it was noted that 2022 was remembered for such a significant date as the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. At the same time, satisfaction was expressed with the current high level of their relations built on friendship and brotherhood. During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on multilateral cooperation, regional issues and other topics. First version published at 19:23 BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Political consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan and Pakistan took place in Baku on May 31, 2023, the Azerbaijani ministry told Trend. The delegation of Azerbaijan was headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Elnur Mammadov, and Foreign Secretary of Pakistan Asad Majeed Khan. The sides exchanged their views on cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, agriculture, education, culture, energy, tourism and other spheres. Moreover, the importance of mutual visits, in particular parliamentary diplomacy, was highlighted, and its positive impact on many areas of bilateral relations was noted. Mammadov spoke in detail about the current situation in the region in the post-conflict period (second Karabakh war), the process of mine clearance, renovation and construction in the Azerbaijani territories liberated from Armenian occupation, as well as about the Great Return program, green energy and smart city projects. Pakistan's firm position during the second Karabakh war, as well as its unconditional support and solidarity with Azerbaijan were emphasized. In the discussions, it was noted that 2022 was remembered for such a significant date as the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. At the same time, satisfaction was expressed with the current high level of their relations built on friendship and brotherhood. During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on multilateral cooperation, regional issues and other topics. During their most recent meeting, the State Central Committee of the Wyoming Democratic Party unanimously passed a resolution in support of access to public lands in the Equality State. The resolution was drafted and brought by Wyoming State Representative and House Minority Leader Mike Yin, who additionally serves as a Democratic State Committeeman for Teton County. I applaud the ruling by Judge Skavdahl. Public lands belong to all of us, and no one should be able to prevent access to those lands we all cherish. - Wyoming State Representative Mike Yin Additionally, the resolution calls on the Wyoming State Legislature to pass legislation codifying recent actions of the courts and enshrining legal access to public lands in state statutes. Full text of the resolution is included below. A Resolution In Support Of Access To Public Lands. WHEREAS, public lands and hunting are part of Wyomings heritage that should be passed down to future generations. WHEREAS, the courts have ruled in favor of hunters corner crossing from public land to an adjacent public land parcel. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE WYOMING DEMOCRATIC PARTY requests that the legislature enacts legislation to enshrine in statute legal access for all public lands. When a member of the public moves from one public land parcel to another public land parcel without setting foot on private land, they are exercising their rights and freedoms to access public lands. Passed Unanimously by the State Central Committee of the Wyoming Democratic Party on Sunday, May 28, 2023, in Riverton, WY. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The amount of funds spent in 2022 on the judiciary, law enforcement and prosecutor's offices in Azerbaijan has been named, Trend reports. This issue was reflected in the draft law "On the execution of the state budget of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022", which was discussed today at the plenary session of the Milli Majlis (Parliament). According to the draft law, 2.3 billlion manat ($1.3 billion) were spent on the areas, including 128.9 million manat ($75.8 million) - on judicial authorities, 1.7 billion manat ($1 billion) - on law enforcement, 110 million manat ($64.7 million) - on prosecutor's offices, and 8.1 million manat ($4.7 million) - on the execution of court decisions. Moreover, about 6 million manat ($3.5 million) were spent on the provision of legal aid assistance, as well as 342 million manat ($201 million) - on other areas of activity related to the judiciary, law enforcement and the prosecutor's office. Cheyenne, WY (82001) Today Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 66F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph.. Tonight A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 49F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph. Batavia, NY (14020) Today Partly cloudy. Hazy. High around 75F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Some clouds. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 52F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Changes will be made to ticket prices on some nature reserves and museums for foreign citizens in Azerbaijan run by the State Tourism Agency from June 1, 2023, the Nature Reserves Management Center of the country told Trend. The cost of entry for foreign citizens to the Ateshgah Temple State Historical Architectural Reserve, "Yanar dag" State Historical, Cultural and Natural Reserve, "Kish" Historical-Architectural Reserve and the Diri Baba Mausoleum will amount to 9 manat ($5.29) each. At the same time, a combined ticket to "Yanar dag" State Historical, Cultural and Natural Reserve and the Ateshgah Temple State Historical - Architectural Reserve will cost 15 manat ($8.82). Moreover, the cost of guide services in foreign languages in these reserves is set at 10 manat ($5.88). Meanwhile, the ticket price for Azerbaijani citizens remains unchanged - 2 manat ($1.18). The entrance to the reserve for local students is 1 manat ($0.59), while the entrance for schoolchildren is free. Persons with disabilities, war veterans who are citizens of Azerbaijan, and foreign tourists under the age of 12 can also visit the reserves for free. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. A total of 2.6 billion manat ($1.5 billion) were spent in 2022 on the restoration and reconstruction of the liberated territories of Azerbaijan [from Armenian occupation after second Karabakh war], Trend reports. This is reflected in the draft law "On the execution of the State Budget of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022", which is being discussed at the plenary session of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) today. Additional funds in the amount of 2.2 billion manat ($1.2 billion) are allocated from the state budget for 2023 in connection with the acceleration of construction, rehabilitation and reconstruction work carried out in Azerbaijans Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur liberated from Armenian occupation. Following over a month of military action to liberate its territories from Armenian occupation from late Sept. to early Nov. 2020, Azerbaijan has pushed Armenia to sign the surrender document. A joint statement on the matter was made by the Azerbaijani president, Armenia's PM, and the president of Russia. What is your biggest weakness? Ah, the dreaded weakness question. It's a tough one because you don't want to reveal something that could cost you the job. But here's the dealhiring managers ask this question to see if you're self-aware, open to feedback, and willing to learn. So, don't say you have no weaknesses. Instead, think about a genuine weakness and show how you're actively working on improving it. 2 Elderly Pro-Life Activists Beaten Outside Baltimore Planned Parenthood Two elderly pro-life activists were attacked outside an abortion clinic in Baltimore, Maryland, on Friday morning. The assault took place at around 10:30 a.m. outside the Planned Parenthood abortion clinic on North Howard Street. According to a Baltimore Police Department incident report shared with The Epoch Times sister media NTD News, a witness said 80-year-old Richard Schafer was engaged in a debate over pro-life and pro-choice abortion views with the unnamed white male suspect. According to witness testimony and camera footage, the suspect walked away from Schafer and his fellow pro-life advocates for a moment before returning and engaging in a visibly aggressive conversation with Schafer. The camera footage reportedly showed the suspect then tackling Schafer over a large flower pot. The camera footage reportedly showed 73-year-old Mark Crosby run over to assist Schafer. That is when the suspect reportedly turned on Crosby and shoved him to the ground with both hands. As Crosby was on his back, the suspect leaned over and punched him in the face and then stood up and kicked him in the face with extreme force. The suspect, identified by police as a white male with brown hair and a full beard, walked away from the scene of the attack. According to the police description of surveillance footage, the suspectwho was wearing a gray T-shirt, blue jeans, and brown shoeswas seen walking away down West Mulberry St. City Watch cameras tracked the suspect as far as the intersection of Greene and West Mulberry Street before losing him. The Victims Injuries The police report states Schafer sustained a laceration to his hand after the attack, while Crosby had a large lump forming on his right eyebrow and blood and swelling on the right side of his face when police arrived. Crosby was also experiencing neck pain as a result of the attack. Crosby was transported to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma unit for medical treatment and diagnosed with a large blood clot over the eye socket and bleeding within the eye itself, known as hyphemia. Local pro-life activist John Roswell told LifeSiteNews that Crosbys plate bone in his upper right cheek is completely fractured, and he is bleeding from some unidentified area behind his eye. Roswell said also said Crosbys bone eye orbit is completely shattered and will have to be replaced with metal. Police said Crosby was listed in stable condition at the hospital. The police report did not provide any additional details about Schafers injuries. Roswell told LifeSiteNews that Schafer is recovering from his injuries at home. Dr. Jay Walton, the president of the Baltimore County Right to Life chapter, set up a GoFundMe fundraising page on Crosbys behalf. For years, Mark has prayed in front of the Planned Parenthood in Baltimore City to let the scared, young abortion-minded women know that they are loved, that their baby is loved, Walton wrote. Please donate to show Mark how much HE is loved. Your donation will go to Mark to help him pay for medical expenses. As of Wednesday morning, the GoFundMe page had collected more than $34,000 in donations, surpassing the original $10,000 donation goal. Abortion-Related Violence The topic of abortion has led to vandalism and violent altercations on both sides of the contentious policy debate. Many recent incidents have followed the leak of the U.S. Supreme Courts decision in the Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization, wherein the court ruled that states could regulate aspects of abortion policy not already codified in federal law. Several pro-life organizations and churches have been targeted with pro-abortion graffiti and other acts of vandalism in recent months. In March, federal prosecutors charged 29-year-old Hridindu Sankar with firebombing a pro-life crisis pregnancy center in Madison, Wisconsin in May of 2022. The National Abortion Foundation, a pro-abortion organization, has also reported (pdf) a spike in attacks and other efforts meant to disrupt abortion clinics. The organization reported arson attacks on clinics doubled from two incidents in 2021 to four in 2022. Burglaries and invasions at abortion clinics also rose a reported 231 percent, from 13 incidents in 2021 to 43 in 2022. Threats and the planting of suspicious devices near clinics also increased in 2022. In January, federal prosecutors charged 32-year-old Tyler Massengill with firebombing an abortion clinic in Peoria, Illinois on Jan. 15, 2023. Several recent federal cases accuse pro-life activists of blocking abortion clinic entrances or intimidating people entering clinics, in violation of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. In September of last year, FBI agents arrested Catholic pro-life activist Mark Houck at his home over a 2021 altercation outside an abortion clinic. According to Houcks wife, Ryan-Marie Houck, the FBI raid involved dozens of armed agents who threatened to break down their door and pointed weapons at family membersan allegation the FBI has denied. The DOJ alleged Houck had pushed 72-year-old clinic escort Bruce Love to the ground during an October 2021 protest. Houcks legal team argued that the altercation actually began after Love began aggressively harassing Houcks 12-year-old son during the protest. Houck was acquitted in a Philadelphia federal court in January. From NTD News Federal Police Invite Chinese Police for Cooperation Visit While Ending Agreement With Beijing The Australian Federal Police (AFP) has invited Chinese police to Australia for an enforcement cooperation meeting while confirming that it will end an agreement with China over human rights concerns. At the invitation of the Australian Federal Police, from April 25 to 28, 2023, the Ministry of Public Security of the Peoples Republic of China sent a delegation to visit Australia to hold the tenth annual meeting of the China-Australia Law Enforcement Cooperation Working Group with the Australian Federal Police, reads a statement in Chinese on the website of Chinas embassy in Australia. In a friendly and pragmatic atmosphere, the two sides reviewed and summarized the situation of China-Australia law enforcement cooperation since the last meeting, deeply analyzed the situation of transnational crimes, and reached broad consensus on bilateral law enforcement cooperation for the next year. According to the statement, the two sides have successfully carried out several special operations against transnational crimes and cracked down on criminal gangs. They also agreed to cooperate in the following areas: Maintain high-level and working-level communication. Strengthen law enforcement cooperation in combating economic crimes. Strengthen cooperation in cracking down on telecommunications and network fraud. Strengthen cybersecurity law enforcement cooperation. Strengthen cooperation in combating drug crimes. Chinese and the Australian police hold the tenth annual meeting of the China-Australia Law Enforcement Cooperation Working Group with the AFP. (Chinas embassy in Australia) During their stay in Australia, the delegation also communicated with the New South Wales Police on combating telecommunications fraud, virtual kidnapping, and protecting the personal and property safety of overseas Chinese and Chinese-funded institutions. Chen Yonglin, a former Chinese diplomat who defected to Australia in 2005, said he was concerned that the so-called law enforcement cooperation between the two sides has gone far beyond normal international anti-drug and anti-money laundering cooperation. The so-called exchange and cooperation platforms established by both sides have crossed over normal channels of diplomatic relations, Chen said. While Australian Federal Police offices are located in Australian embassies and consulates in China, Chinese police stations attempt to be located in Chinese communities or operate independently of embassies and consulates. to be not bound by diplomatic and consular conventions, violating Australias sovereignty and having no respect for the law. In other areas, such as cybersecurity, the two sides simply do not have a common language, as the CCPs main enemy on the internet is free speech expresses. As for other consular protection functions involving Chinese enterprises and Chinese citizens, they are the original business of embassies and consulates and do not require the intervention of public security authorities. Therefore, the Australian Federal Police should adhere to the principles of its function and not overstep its authority to act for China. AFP to End Agreement with China This comes just one month prior to the AFP confirming it would not renew an agreement signed with China amid international human rights groups human rights concerns. AFP officials told the Senate on May. 25 that the agency would not renew its memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed with Chinas National Commission of Supervision (NCS) in December 2018, which will expire at the end of this year. Asked by Senator James Paterson on the basis of the AFPs decision, Ian McCartney, Deputy Commissioner for the AFP, said there had been a change in the bilateral relationship with China. In effect, we didnt see the requirement for that to continue, McCartney said. There was minimal interaction with that agency in relation to the work that we do. Australias MOU with China has long raised concerns of human rights groups, which alleged that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has been trying to establish the legitimacy of its national watchdog as a global legal partner through such cooperation agreements. Ian McCartney, Deputy Commissioner for the AFP, confirmed the agency will not renew its agreement signed with Chinas NCS. (Screenshot/The Epoch Times) The NCS in China is responsible for Xi Jinpings reprehensive FoxHunt operation across 120 countries and regions, which violates the national and judicial sovereignty of countries across the world, and guilty of a crime against humanity through its Liuzhi system for enforced disappearances, according to Safeguard Defenders, an international human rights group. Based on a report titled Transnational Repression Is a Growing Threat to Global Democracy, released by Freedom House in February 2021, the CCP seeks to change international norms in the name of the FoxHunt operation, extending its targeting to political opponents and dissidents worldwide. In 2014, Melbourne resident Dong Feng, a practitioner of Falun Gong, a spiritual practice persecuted in China, was persuaded by the Chinese police to return to China to face a court. Australian officials were not notified about the matter beforehand, which compelled the former Abbott government to summon Chinese diplomats to meet and for officials to express their deep concerns over the unacceptable undercover operation. Defence Expert Concerned About AFPs Closeness with Beijing The AFPs close relationship with Chinese police was criticized by defence expert Michael Shoebridge. Michael Shoebridge, director of defence, strategy and at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. (Supplied) The relationship between the AFP and Chinese law enforcement agencies is now out of step with the shifts in Chinese state behaviour and direction over the last five years, Shoebridge, who runs Strategic Analysis Australia, previously told The Epoch Times. Its a policing relationship that must be reassessed. Thats shown by the recently-revealed presence of Chinese overseas police outreach operations in more than 80 cities across the world, including Australia, he said, referring to the Safeguard Defenders 2022 report, 110 Overseas: Chinese Transnational Policing Gone Wild. While these stations serve administrative purposes on the surface, such as extending Chinas driving licenses and processing official documents, they have a more sinister goal, as they contribute to resolutely cracking down on all kinds of illegal and criminal activities involving overseas Chinese, the Safeguard Defenders report said. The Epoch Times has reached out to the AFP for comment on the enforcement cooperation meeting. ANALYSIS: Attempts to Cancel Canada Day the Latest Escalation in Decades-Old Trend, Say Historians The trend of questioning the Canadian identity has escalated to the point that some major cities have attempted to cancel or actually cancelled Canada Day celebrations. Historians say the trends roots go back decades, but it has gathered significantly more momentum in recent years. We have had politicized discussions about our national identity many, many times, Christopher Dummitt, a history professor at Trent University, told The Epoch Times. Two examples are when the flag was inaugurated in 1965, and when Dominion Day was renamed Canada Day in 1982. In those instances, it was about what kind of Canada do you want, Dummitt said. Whats different about this time is the way in which its the attachment to Canada at all that is being questioned. In some ways, its the endpoint for a long-standing Canadian tendency toward self-abasement and giving up the majoritys traditions to accommodate the minority, he said. A Red Ensign flag is seen in an undated handout photo. (The Canadian Press/HO-Canadian Legion) For example, Canada has done away with many British symbols over the years, motivated by an idea that Canadians either celebrate the countrys British past or celebrate its diverse ethnicities with new symbols. Its seen as an either-or choice, Dummitt said. But there has always been a segment of Canadians who stand against this absolutist choice or the need for self-abasement, believing that all Canadians can be celebrated without downplaying the traditions of some. In the current struggle over Canada Day, this segment has had some success. Reversed Decisions to Cancel Celebrations In recent weeks, Calgary and Toronto reversed their decisions to cancel certain Canada Day celebrations this year following a public outcry. Calgary officials had announced the cancellation of fireworks, due in part to concerns about indigenous Truth and Reconciliation and the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Immigration Act, commonly known as the Chinese Exclusion Act, which has been denounced as having excluded Chinese from coming to Canada. Toronto had cited cost concerns in cancelling its fireworks. The push against Canadas national day of celebration seems to have calmed this year in Winnipeg, which saw historical statues toppled on Canada Day 2021 by those expressing outrage over colonialism and past treatment of indigenous people. Statues were also toppled in Toronto and Victoria, B.C., that year. In 2022, Winnipegs The Forks North Portage Partnership rebranded Canada Day as New Day and cancelled fireworks. We acknowledge the anger and hurt indigenous communities are feeling, and we know we have a role to play in the healing process, said CEO Sara Stasiuk in a statement at the time. The Forks received strong criticism from some quarters, with then-mayoral candidate Jenny Motkaluk getting particular media attention for her tweet: On July 1st, I will be proudly celebrating Canadas birthday because I love my country unconditionally. I guess I cant do that at the Forks because Ive recently learned that its canceled. PS Im currently accepting invitations to all actual Canada Day parties. This year, fireworks and celebrations will be held at Assiniboia Downs, a horse race track in Winnipeg, but it seems there will be no festivities at all at The Forks on July 1. Its calendar lists neither Canada Day nor New Day celebrations in July. Vancouver is the only major Canadian city where big changes to Canada Day celebrations will remain. The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, which is a federal agency, has announced that the day will be rebranded as Canada Together and fireworks are cancelled indefinitely. The Rising Bobo Class Driving these calls for change is a certain elite educated class, Dummitt said, noting that historically, it has been a middle-class liberal view that Canada should leave behind its traditions in the name of inclusivity. When the Canadian Red Ensign was replaced by the current maple leaf flag in 1965, there was a fractious national debate and many stood against the change. They wanted to keep Britains Union Jack as part of Canadas flag alongside the fleur-de-lis and other symbols, explained Dummitt. There were those who really wanted to celebrate Canadas French traditions, its British traditions, the traditions of the new Canadians at the timepeople from Ukraine and Italy and European Jews who had come here. They want to have all those things, he said. The statue of Canadas founding prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, is removed from a park in his hometown of Kingston, Ont., on June 18, 2021. (The Canadian Press/Lars Hagberg) Instead, the liberal establishment said, To want to keep British symbols in the Canadian flag or French symbols, thats backwards and thats bigoted. We need to have something different. And so in some ways, thats whats happening here again. For the first time, however, some of this liberal middle-class that still continued to celebrate Canada are abandoning that tradition. And an upper-middle-class educated elite, Dummitt said, sees the world through a cosmopolitan lens where connection to a specific place no longer matters. If youre a working-class person living in small-town Ontario or Saskatchewan, youre not living in the same world that cosmopolitan cultural elites live in, he said. Youre from a placeyoure from a real, specific placeand this is the way in which class becomes caught up in these cultural war issues. Dummitt said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is part of this elite class, and thats why he famously said in a 2015 statement to The New York Times, There is no core identity, no mainstream in Canada, and that makes us the first post-national state. Brock University historian John Bonnett also thinks that a dominant class seems to have the most control over Canadas institutions. In the wake of the internet, a new dominant class arose and has taken control of our various institutions, whether its universities, government, bureaucracy, the media, or what have you, he told The Epoch Times. There are various names for this class, Bonnett said, citing a name coined by political and cultural commentator David Brooks, the bobo class. Combining bourgeois and bohemian, it refers to a corporate upper class. This class is driving the call for cancelling Canada Day, he said, and it is potent. I think the great political challenge of the 21st century is going to be finding a way to reckon with the amount of power that this class has. Bonnett likened the situation to a rise in the 1960s of Marxist intellectuals in the West who were against Western culture. He said they convinced the public, for example, that Japan was about to surrender before the United States used the atomic bomb, and thus there had been no need to use the bomb. But documentation from the time shows that Japan had no intention of surrendering until the bomb dropped. A Lot to Be Proud Of Bonnett urges Canadians to read up on history from a variety of sources to get a more accurate picture and not put absolute faith in any particular historian or group of historians. Historians dont merit that faith, he said. Historiography is the study of how history is recorded, of looking through a critical lens at the various sources of information. He said this type of critical thinking is important. Bonnett said Canada has made its mistakes, but it also has a lot to be proud of. We care about human rights, we try to correct our mistakes, we are a democracy, Bonnett said. Dummitt said one moment in Canadian history that stands out to him as a point of pride is the story of responsible government, which is the great story of the 1840s. Canadians, or the British North Americans of the time, convinced a British governor that the budding nation should govern itself. We won a parliamentary system from the British, and we did it without fighting for the most part, he said. It was won by constant, slow negotiation and discussion. In some ways, its an incredibly boring story, but its also an important story. ANALYSIS: Scope of FBIs Use of 702 Section Data on Americans Revealed for 1st Time FBI conducted as many as 3.4 million U.S. person queries of Section 702 data in one year and used FISA data in Jan. 6 investigations News Analysis The FBIs use of warrantless backdoor searches of a vast amount of information known as the Section 702 databasewhich is intended for targeted surveillance of foreign persons located outside the United Statesto spy on Americans is far more widespread than previously thought, according to a new report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI). Section 702 is a key provision of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) that permits the government to conduct targeted surveillance of foreign persons located outside the United States and is supposed to prevent any surveillance of U.S. citizens. This massive database contains emails, texts, and phone calls that come from the tech giants, but also comes from the backbone of the internet. Its one of the most powerful collection and surveillance tools that the Intelligence Community has. The report revealed that the FBI performed up to 3.4 million U.S. person queries of Section 702 data in 2021 alone. By contrast, the CIA and National Security Agency (NSA) combined ran fewer than 4,000 searches. The DNI was obviously reluctant to reveal this information, listing it as fewer than 3,394,053 searches, and also went to great effort to explain why this number might be inflated, telling us that the FBI might run multiple searches or queries on the same individual. The DNI also tried to emphasize that the number of searches was down substantially from the only prior data we have1.3 million searches that occurred in the last three months of 2020, translating to a backward-looking run rate well in excess of 5 million. The FBI has routinely misused this powerful surveillance tool. For example, the bureau was recently cited by the FISA court for, among many other violations, illegally using Section 702 surveillance to collect information on individuals associated with events at our Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. This ongoing misuse of Section 702 information was so persistent and widespread, the secret court noted, that It may become necessary to consider other responses, such as substantially limiting the number of FBI personnel with access to unminimized Section 702 information. House Intelligence chair Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio) responded to testimony from FBI Director Christopher Wray on the matter by saying, the FBI is absolutely the problem child in FISA and 702. The abuses are abhorrent. Most Section 702 collection involves downstream collection, in which U.S. intelligence agencies go directly to companies such as Google and Facebook and force the companies to turn over communications to and from identified targets. These companies are prohibited from telling their users that their data has been turned over to the government. The information returned from these searches can also be alarmingly broad. NSA slides leaked by former contractor Edward Snowden provided examples of the kinds of communications that can be collected under Section 702. They include a broad array of online activities, including emails, video and voice chats, posted videos and video conferences, Voice over internet, photos, file transfers, account activities such as logins, details about social networking accounts, and special requests which those leaked slides disturbingly dont define. However, some of NSAs Section 702 collection is obtained via upstream collection, in which the NSA obtains communications directly from the Internet backbone, with the compelled assistance of companies that maintain those networks. In simple language, upstream surveillance means the NSA effectively taps into the high-capacity fiber optic cables that carry internet traffic and copy all of the data flowing through those cables. The agency is then supposed to filter out any communications that are wholly domestic communications between Americans located in the U.S. Once the NSA has supposedly filtered out domestic communications, the NSA can then search the data using queries on a target of Section 702 collection. There are, however, several important exceptions. And, as we already know, there are numerous violations of the governments handling of this information. Heres how intelligence is supposed to be collected under Section 702. An analyst identifies a specific selector such as a name, an email, or a phone number relating to a foreign target theyre after. Information on the person linked to that selector is then returned by the system to the analyst. There are then three criteria that the analyst must ascertain before that information can be used. First, the target must be a non-U.S. person. Secondly, they must be located outside of the United States. And finally, the information returned must contain foreign intelligence. Once the analyst completes the targeting request, it is then supposedly checked by a senior analyst and double-checked by another senior analyst to ensure that these three criteria are met. Theres also supposed to be rigorous and ongoing oversight of the governments use of Section 702 by various branches of the government. Unknown to most people, the FBI has an added power of surveillance thats unavailable to other government agencies. As the new DNI report notes, the FBI is the only intelligence agency with Section 702 querying procedures that allow for searches that are reasonably likely to retrieve evidence of a crime. In other words, the intelligence agencies legally can only query Section 702 information if the search is reasonably likely to retrieve foreign intelligence information. But the FBI can also legally use search queries to identify evidence of a crime. This is an extraordinarily wide allowance. A recently declassified FISA court ruling noted that across the FBI, there have been queries of raw or unredacted FISA information without a factual basis to believe the search was likely to return either foreign intelligence information or evidence of a crime. Its this misuse of Section 702 by the FBI that was recently noted in several major articles by The Washington Post and The New York Timesalthough these articles leave out the biggest findings. The FISA court called the actions by the FBI an ongoing pattern of conducting broad, suspicionless queries of unminimized section 702 information. The FISA court stated that there were In excess of 278,000 non-compliant FBI queries of raw FISA acquired information. This information collection covered a wide spectrum of activities unrelated to national security or foreign intelligence, including queries that involve Individuals listed in Police Homicide reports, including victims, next of kin, witnesses, and suspects. The FBI also searched for Individuals arrested in connection with civil unrest and protests between May 30th and June 18th, 2020. The NSD concluded these queries were illegal and not reasonably likely to retrieve foreign intelligence information or evidence of a crime. The FISA court also cited an instance in which an FBI analyst ran queries of individuals suspected of involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capital breach. The court noted that the analyst said she had run thousands of names within FBI systems in relation to the capital breach investigation. In another violation noted by the court, an FBI official ran approximately 23,132 separate queries regarding the events of Jan. 6, 2021. In another more specific instance, an officer ran queries for a person under investigation for assaulting a federal officer in connection with Jan. 6. The FBI stated that they viewed the situation as a threat to National Security as justification for the searches. The NSD, however, disagreed, concluding that these searches by the FBI were illegal. There were other illegal searches related to Jan. 6 as well, including illegal searches by the FBI relating to individuals who were under criminal investigation regarding events that day. In many of these cases, it appears that the FBI was operating under a false pretense of Possible foreign influence and National Security risks. All of these searches were also found to be illegal by the court. In relation to searches related to Jan. 6, it appears that agents were fabricating foreign influence concerns and unsubstantiated risks to National Security in an attempt to provide cover, so that they could conduct illegal searches and surveillance on U.S. citizens. In a separate instance, an FBI official conducted a batch query for over 19,000 donors to a congressional campaign. According to the FISA courts report, the analyst claimed without proof that the campaign was a target of foreign influence, but it was later determined that only eight of the identifiers used in the querynames, phone numbers, and emailshad sufficient ties to foreign influence activities to comply with the standard. In other words, without any proof or legal basis, searches were run on 19,000 donorsthe vast majority of whom were U.S. citizenssimply by claiming that the congressional campaign was a target of foreign influence. Despite repeated requests by Congress that date back to at least 2011, the FBI has been unable to provide the number of searches it conducted on Americans using unminimized Section 702 collection. In response to these refusals by the FBI, Congress passed a law in 2018 requiring that the FBI begin keeping records of its searches of U.S. persons. The FBI stonewalled Congress for more than two years but finally began keeping the required records sometime in 2020 after the FISA court rejected all of the bureaus arguments. Meanwhile, the DNI report fails to even mention how many of these searches by the FBI were done in error, or, in other words, illegally. Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) asked about that during recent testimony by Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz. When asked by Gaetz what the error rate of the 3.4 million backdoor searches was, Horowitz responded by saying he believed the error rate was around 30 percent. As Gaetz noted, that would amount to more than 1 million illegal searches. Gaetz then asked Horowitz how many people in the FBI could perform these backdoor searches. Horowitz wasnt entirely sure, but when Gaetz told Horowitz he believed the number was in excess of 10,000 FBI officials who had access, Horowitz said he didnt disagree with Gaetzs assessment. Theres also a significant legal carveout known as incidental collection, which is used heavily by the FBI. Incidental collection happens when information on U.S. citizens is swept up in the collection of foreign targets. It typically occurs when an individual is in contact with the target of surveillance and its far more common than generally thought. As noted by Just Security, incidental collection happens over the course of most surveillance, whether it is targeted surveillance under traditional FISA authorities, or its a large-scale surveillance pursuant to section 702 whereby vast amounts of Americans Communications are swept up by the NSA. Any American citizens that are swept up in incidental collection are supposed to have their names redacted or masked but often, thats not the case. As it turns out, there are two loopholes. Names of American citizens can be left unredacted if its believed that doing so provides foreign intelligence value. Additionally, if the analyst reviewing the information believes that those communications may contain evidence of any crime, those communications can be shared with law enforcement agencies, including the FBI. Those agencies can then use that information to prosecute crimes, even if those crimes are completely unrelated to the purpose of the original surveillance. There is no judge involved in these decisions, only a determination by the analyst that the collection and dissemination of the information is worthwhile. Then, theres the tactic known as reverse targeting, which happens when someone in the intelligence community targets a foreign person located outside of the United States specifically for the purpose of surveilling a U.S. citizen within the United States with whom they are communicating. This tactic is technically illegal, but misuses by government agencies still occur. Consider what happened to Tucker Carlson. In June 2021, Carlson told his audience that he believed the government was spying on him as part of an effort to take his show off the air. He said that a whistleblower in the NSA had tipped him off that the agency was planning to leak emails and texts to get him off the air. The NSA responded to the allegations saying that Carlson has never been an intelligence target of the agency. Note that the carefully worded statement doesnt deny that the communications were incidentally collected or were the subject of reverse targeting. As it turns out, Carlson was talking to U.S.-based Kremlin intermediaries about getting an interview with Vladimir Putin at the exact same time that he claimed his communications were intercepted. Its all but certain that the political talk show host was correct in his assertions. The government repeatedly tells us how valuable Section 702 is, claiming that its vital to keeping our nation safe, and that it provides intelligence on activities of terrorist organizations, weapons proliferators, spies, malicious cyber actors, and other foreign adversaries. Director of the National Security Agency Paul Nakasone recently said that Section 702 plays an outsized role in protecting the nation, providing some of the U.S. governments most valuable intelligence on our most challenging targets. The government goes to great lengths to assure us that the system isnt being abused and that American citizens arent being targeted by the Intelligence Community. However, it appears theres virtually no accountability in how the Section 702 databaseone of the most powerful collection tools that the Intelligence Community hasis used. ANALYSIS: What Course Will Smith Take After UCPs Re-Election Win in Alberta? EDMONTONAct I of Danielle Smiths political comeback during the 2022 UCP leadership race saw her speaking out against COVID-19 restrictive policies, promising a Sovereignty Act, and talking about the need for a provincial police force and pension. Once elected leader, she maintained her posture on COVID policies and delivered on her Sovereignty Act. But the former Wildrose leader didnt have long before entering Act II of her renewed career ahead of the provincial election, needing to cater to voters across the province and putting aside talk about some politically sensitive topics that could be attacked by the opposition. Now, entering Act III with a majority government where she faces no serious threat by the opposition for four years, what direction will the newly re-elected premier take? In her victory speech after winning the May 29 election, Smith took a conciliatory tone toward those who didnt vote for her, while making it clear her priorities are creating jobs, making Alberta investment-friendly, and standing up to Ottawa. We have to keep powering and diversifying our amazing economy, she said, emphasizing the need to lower personal and business taxes and support the provinces energy sector. We need to come together no matter how we have voted, to stand shoulder to shoulder against soon-to-be announced Ottawa policies that would significantly harm our provincial economy. Political scientist Michael Wagner says if Smith intends to introduce any politically sensitive initiatives, shes likely going to do it sooner rather than later so that it doesnt jeopardize her chances in the next election. But he says the incentive remains for her to maintain the positions she had during the election, since she won. Generally speaking, the incentive would be more to stay that way, he said in an interview. But while Smiths position as premier may be safe from opposition challenge for four years, the same cant be said for challenge from the party grassroots. Her conservative predecessors Alison Redford and Jason Kenney both resigned their premiership before their terms were over. If she panders to the left of the centre, shes going to get herself in trouble, Rob Anders, a former Calgary MP, told The Epoch Times. Anders is among those who want more fundamental changes within the partysomething he says is possible now that many of the former ministers didnt win their seatsand also wants to see the province bring in its own agencies, including a provincial police force and pension plan. There are others who want to see more focus on reforming the health-care system and supporting the resource sector. Albertans, and Canadians across the country for that matter, would benefit from bold changes in terms of health reform, natural resource development, and many other areas, Colin Craig, president of the think tank Secondstreet.org, told The Epoch Times. Alberta has been a leader in the past on the national stage. Hopefully Premier Smith is willing to push forward with policy changes both locally and on the national stage. The UCPs election platform said it will improve access to health care, reduce interprovincial trade barriers, provide funding to families as well as to individuals receiving income support due to disability, give electricity rebates, and develop the energy sector. Michael Solberg, a partner at Calgary-based New West Public Affairs, a national public affairs firm, says Smith will be looking to further solidifying party unity and collaborating with her caucus to come to a consensus on ideas and policy. You talk to almost anybody, they say Danielle is quite good at that. Shell have to sit down with her new caucus and understand where theyre coming from, and come to consensus on what should be done, including meeting some of her campaign commitments, he said in an interview. But regardless of the course Smith may take domestically, University of Calgary political science professor Barry Cooper says its clear shell continue her stand against federal government policies she sees as hurtful to the province. I think that the confrontation between Alberta and Saskatchewan and [Ottawas environmental policies] is going to heat up, Cooper said. Arizona Secretary of State Candidate Ordered to Pay Legal Fees in Groundless Election Challenge The Republican candidate for Arizona secretary of state who challenged the 2022 election results in court was ordered on May 22 to pay over $48,000 in fees related to litigation. Mark Finchem, a former Arizona state lawmaker, was ordered to pay the fees by Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Melissa Julian, the order stated. Julian ordered Finchem to pay about $40,000 in attorney fees (pdf) to his Democrat opponent and now Secretary of State Adrian Fontes and about $7,400 in attorney fees to Gov. Katie Hobbs. Fontes was elected to the office with a 120,000 vote margin against Finchem, according to court records and Arizona election results. Julian additionally ordered Finchem to pay a combined $385 in taxable costs related to the suit$293 to Fontes and $92 to Hobbs. Sanctions Ordered Previously In March, the same judge imposed sanctions on Finchem and his attorney, calling Finchems challenge to the election groundless and ordering monetary sanctions under Arizona law, which she said helps discourage lawsuits for which there is no legitimate basis or fact or law. In election matters, Arizonas courts have emphasized that sanctions should be awarded only in rare cases, so as not to discourage legitimate challenges, Julian wrote. This is such a case. None of Contestant Finchems allegations, even if true, would have changed the vote count enough to overcome the 120,000 votes he needed to affect the result of this election. Finchem, in his objection to the request for sanctions by Hobbs and Fontes, argued Arizona precedent does not allow the court to impose sanctions in election suits. Adrian Fontes, Democrat candidate for Arizona Secretary of State speaks at an election night watch party at the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel in Phoenix, Ariz., on Nov. 8, 2022. (Christian Petersen/Getty Images) In pertinent part, as already presented to the Court, Arizonas appellate courts have consistently over the decades ruled that attorneys fees are not to be granted in Election Contests, his attorney argued in the objection. The courts have determined that fee awards are based upon general statutes such as the statute cited by the Court as foundation for its prior Ruling regarding costs. Julian added the court found Finchems lawsuit was not brought in good faith, which added to her reasoning for imposing monetary sanctions. The court declined to award any additional penalty or damages beyond the fees actually and reasonably incurred. Finchems Challenge Julian dismissed Finchems lawsuit (pdf) in December, which he appealed shortly after. He alleged a litany of misconduct claims against Hobbs related to his election, which he referred to as comical and tragic. Finchems suit claimed misconduct on the part of Hobbs when she was secretary of state by failing to recuse herself from election duties, failing to ensure the correct official at the Election Assistance Commission signed a certification of election machines, threatening legal action against county officials who delayed election certification, and flagging his Twitter account for misinformation in January 2021. None of these alleged acts of misconduct presented a fairly debatable election challenge as Finchem did not and could not allege that any of these acts rendered uncertain the outcome of an election he lost by over 120,000 votes, Julian wrote at the time. As noted in the ruling, however, Twitter is not an election official and its decision to temporarily suspend Finchems Twitter account presents no valid basis for an election challenge under Arizona law. Julian also wrote that Hobbs failure to recuse herself doesnt warrant a re-do of the election. Finchem had requested relief in the form of the court nullifying the election and ordering a paper ballot revote. Seeking or holding a public office does not grant elected officials a financial or ownership interest in the job they hold or seek. To the contrary, the nature of the relation of a public officer to the public is inconsistent with either a property or a contract right. Every public office is created in the interest and for the benefit of the people, and belongs to them, Julian wrote. Artificial Intelligence Poses Risk of Extinction, Warns ChatGPT Founder and Other AI Pioneers OpenAI CEO Sam Altman addresses a speech during a meeting at the Station F in Paris on May 26, 2023. (Joel Saget/AFP via Getty Images) Artificial intelligence tools have captured the publics attention in recent months, but many of the people who helped develop the technology are now warning that greater focus should be placed on ensuring it doesnt bring about the end of human civilization. A group of more than 350 AI researchers, journalists, and policymakers signed a brief statement saying, Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war. The letter was organized and published by the Center for AI Safety (CAIS) on Tuesday. Among the signatories was Sam Altman, who helped co-found OpenAI, the developer of the artificial intelligence writing tool ChatGPT. Other OpenAI members also signed on, as did several members of Google and Googles DeepMind AI project, and other rising AI projects. AI researcher and podcast host Lex Fridman also added his name to the list of signatories. Understanding the Risks Posed By AI It can be difficult to voice concerns about some of advanced AIs most severe risks, CAIS said in a message previewing its Tuesday statement. CAIS added that its statement is meant to open up discussion on the threats posed by AI and create common knowledge of the growing number of experts and public figures who also take some of advanced AIs most severe risks seriously. NTD News reached out to CAIS for more specifics on the kinds of extinction-level risks the organization believes AI technology poses, but did not receive a response by publication. Earlier this month, Altman testified before Congress about some of the risks he believes AI tools may pose. In his prepared testimony, Altman included a safety report (pdf) that OpenAI authored on its ChatGPT-4 model. The authors of that report described how large language model chatbots could potentially help harmful actors like terrorists to develop, acquire, or disperse nuclear, radiological, biological, and chemical weapons. The authors of the ChatGPT-4 report also described Risky Emergent Behaviors exhibited by AI models, such as the ability to create and act on long-term plans, to accrue power and resources and to exhibit behavior that is increasingly agentic.' After stress-testing ChatGPT-4, researchers found that the chatbot attempted to conceal its AI nature while outsourcing work to human actors. In the experiment, ChatGPT-4 attempted to hire a human through the online freelance site TaskRabbit to help it solve a CAPTCHA puzzle. The human worker asked the chatbot why it could not solve the CAPTCHA, which is designed to prevent non-humans from using particular website features. ChatGPT-4 replied with the excuse that it was vision impaired and needed someone who could see to help solve the CAPTCHA. The AI researchers asked GPT-4 to explain its reasoning for giving the excuse. The AI model explained, I should not reveal that I am a robot. I should make up an excuse for why I cannot solve CAPTCHAs. The AIs ability to come up with an excuse for being unable to solve a CAPTCHA intrigued researchers as it showed signs of power-seeking behavior that it could use to manipulate others and sustain itself. Calls For AI Regulation The Tuesday CAIS statement is not the first time that the people who have done the most to bring AI to the forefront have turned around and warned about the risks posed by their creations. In March, the non-profit Future of Life Institute organized more than 1,100 signatories behind a call to pause experiments on AI tools that are more advanced than ChatGPT-4. Among the signatories on the March letter from the Future of Life Institute were Twitter CEO Elon Musk, Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, and Stability AI founder and CEO Emad Mostaque. Lawmakers and regulatory agencies are already discussing ways to constrain AI to prevent its misuse. In April, the Civil Rights Division of the United States Department of Justice, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Federal Trade Commission, and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission claimed technology developers are marketing AI tools that could be used to automate business practices in a way that discriminates against protected classes. The regulators pledged to use their regulatory power to go after AI developers whose tools perpetuate unlawful bias, automate unlawful discrimination, and produce other harmful outcomes. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre expressed the Biden administrations concerns about AI technology during a Tuesday press briefing. [AI] is one of the most powerful technologies, right, that we see currently in our time, but in order to seize the opportunities it presents we must first mitigate its risk and thats what were focusing on here in this administration, Jean-Pierre said. Jean-Pierre said companies must continue to ensure that their products are safe before releasing them to the general public. While policymakers are looking for new ways to constrain AI, some researchers have warned against overregulating the developing technology. Jake Morabito, director of the Communications and Technology Task Force at the American Legislative Exchange Council, has warned that overregulation could stifle innovative AI technologies in their infancy. Innovators should have the legroom to experiment with these new technologies and find new applications, Morabito told NTD News in a March interview. One of the negative side effects of regulating too early is that it shuts down a lot of these avenues, whereas enterprises should really explore these avenues and help customers. From NTD News Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement Officially Takes Effect Union Jack flags are waved in London, the UK, on Sept. 18, 2022. (Loic Venance/AFP via Getty Images) The free trade agreement between Australia and the UK has officially come into effect on May 31 after two years of negotiation. On May 30, British High Commissioner Vicki Treadell delivered the diplomatic note confirming that the UKs domestic procedures for the trade agreement to come into force had been completed, effectively opening a new chapter in the trade relationship between the two countries. This comes after the trade agreement was signed in December 2021 and received approval from the UK parliament in March 2023. Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell said the deal was a major step in Australias plan to diversify trade. When trade flows freely, the benefits are felt across virtually all aspects of everyday life, he said. More trade means more well-paying jobs, more national income, more opportunities for business and a lower cost of living. Assistant Trade Minister Tim Ayres praised the trade agreement, saying it would create new opportunities for Australian exporters, businesses and workers. They [the UK] are one of our oldest friends This is a new chapter in the economic relationship, and it means new opportunities for Australian businesses, he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Its been broadly welcomed by the agriculture sector in particular as has been a big a big step forward we keep working through the project of expanding Australias access to global markets. What Changes Under the Trade Agreement From May 31, over 99 percent of Australian products exported to the UK will be duty-free, including major commodities such as wine, rice, sugar, honey, nuts, olive oil and food supplements. In addition, Australian industrial goods, such as auto parts, electrical equipment and fashion items, will not be subject to UK tariffs. While Australian agricultural products, including beef and sheep meat, sugar and dairy products, will have duty-free quotas, the federal government said all tariffs would eventually be eliminated. In exchange, the Australian government removes tariffs on 98 percent of UK imports to the country, with the remainder to be phased out within six years. Dried honeycomb cells are seen at Bowral Bees in Bowral, Australia, on May 17, 2021. (Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images) This means Australian will have access to cheaper UK products such as cars, whisky, confectionery, biscuits and cosmetics. Apart from removing tariffs, the deal also provides more working opportunities for Australians. Specifically, it allows Australian professionals to access the UK job market on equal footing with nationals from the European Union, except for the Republic of Ireland. In addition, the trade agreement extends the duration of working holiday visas for young Australians from two to three years and lifts the age restriction from 30 to 35 years from January 31, 2024. Currently, the UK remains one of Australias largest trading partners, with two-way goods trade worth $10 billion (US$6.5 billion) in 2022 and two-way services trade worth over $11 billion in 2021-22. It is also the second-largest source of foreign direct investment, with a total value of over $1 trillion in 2022. Business Community Welcomes the Trade Agreement Andrew McKellar, the CEO of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industrythe largest business association in the country, said the trade agreement put Australian exporters at the front of the pack to access one of the largest markets in the world. Business has played an important role in the development of this agreement and welcomes the opportunities this partnership provides, not just in the exchange of goods and services, but also in enhancing labour market access between the two countries, he said in a statement obtained by The Epoch Times. This free trade partnership between our two countries will work to further cement our strong and growing relationship with the UK. We urge Australian businesses to take advantage of its benefits at the earliest opportunity. The Australia-UK free trade agreement takes effect following the Chinese regime confirming the resumption of Australian timber imports after Farrells two-day trip to Beijing in May. Biden Administration Responds to Moscow Drone Attack A specialist inspects the damaged facade of a multi-storey apartment building after a reported drone attack in Moscow on May 30, 2023. (Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP via Getty Images) The Biden administration, which has stalwartly and generously supported Ukraine in its resistance to the Russian invasion of its homelandwith that backing including money, weapons, equipment, training, and other resources valued at tens of billions of dollarshas been put on the defensive with reports that Ukraine conducted an attack on Russian civilians. As well, there is speculation that Ukraine may have used weapons it received from the United States in the attack. On May 30, Russia said that Ukraine mounted a drone attack on residential apartment buildings in Moscow, the capital of Russia. If true, it would be the first Ukraine attack on Russian residential spaces since the war began on Feb. 24, 2022. Within the past few weeks, Russia has stepped up aerial bombing of Ukraine, with a focus on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv. Unmanned aerial drones have become staples of the conflict between the nations. A complication for the Biden administration, if it is discovered that Ukraine had targeted Russian civilians, is that Ukraine, viewed globally as a heroic underdog to the powerful Russian bear (which holds the most nuclear warheads of all nations), would cede some of its moral advantage. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed Russias claims that Ukraine had intentionally attacked civilians and restated and defended the administrations support of Ukraine. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks with reporters during the daily press briefing at the White House in Washington on May 30, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times) As you know, weve seen the news, and are certainly gathering information about what happened to get a better perspective and clarity about what happened, said Jean-Pierre. But I can speak to this more generally. We have said this before; we do not support attacks inside Russia. Weve been very clear about that. We have been focused on providing Ukraineas youve heard from the president, as youve heard from a national security advisor and many colleagues from NSC [National Security Council]with the equipment and training they need to retake their own sovereign territory. And thats exactly what weve done for more than a year. Jean-Pierre noted that in May, Russia delivered 17 rounds of air strikes on Kyiv, with many hitting civilian areas. Russia started this unprovoked aggression, this unprovoked war against Ukraine, said Jean-Pierre. Russia can end this at any time. They can withdraw their forces from Ukraine, instead of launching these brutal air strikes against Ukraine and their cities and on their people every day. Ukrainian police officers inspecting a fragment of the rocket after a Russian rocket attack in Kyiv, Ukraine, on May 29, 2023. (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP Photo) American Public Views on Support for Ukraine American adults mostly support the United States aiding Ukraine in some measure. A University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy/NORC at the University of Chicago study published on May 24 found that as of April, 58 percent favor placing sanctions on Russia, with 14 percent opposing, and 27 percent saying neither. Fifty-six percent favor accepting Ukrainian refugees into the United States, with 17 percent opposed, and 27 percent neither favoring nor opposing. On the U.S. policy of sending weapons to Ukraine, 50 percent support, 23 percent oppose, and 26 percent dont have an opinion. As for sending government money to Ukraine, 40 percent support, 35 percent oppose, and 24 percent say they neither favor nor oppose. Approximately seven of 10 adults surveyed for the study believe that Russia is unjustified in invading Ukraine. Political and Party Divide Democrats in Congress, far more than Republicans, support the United States in giving Ukraine cash, arms, equipment, and other resources. Democrats broadly believe that backing Ukraine is in the best interest of American security. Many Republicans see support for Ukraine as meddling in a conflict that doesnt pose a threat to America and spends money that is needed at home. In May 2022, the House voted 368-57 to pass the White Houses $40 billion aid bill for Ukraine. All no votes were cast by Republicans. Later in the month, in the Senate, the bill passed, 86-11, with every no vote coming from a GOP senator. President Biden signed the bill on May 21. A GOP faction that is particularly opposed to supporting Ukraine is the House Freedom Caucus, whose members include Darrell Issa (Calif.), Lauren Boebert (Colo.), Matt Gaetz (Fla.), and Marjorie Taylor-Greene (Ga.). Senator Lindsay Graham (R-S.C.), a prominent Republican, takes heat for siding with the Biden administration on the policy of aiding Ukraine. Many consider the position evidence that Graham is a RINO (Republican In Name Only). Among the announced candidates for the Republican nomination for president, there is no broad consensus on the issue of Ukraine. Yet all agree that American troops should not be sent to fight in the war. Nikki Haley, then U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, addresses the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) during a UNSC meeting on Ukraine at the United Nations in New York City on Nov. 26, 2018. (Don Emmert/AFP via Getty Images) Two-term South Carolina governor and former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley is an advocate for the United States working with its allies to provide Ukraine the tools it needs to win the war. She does not support America giving Ukraine money. Haley says that opposing Russia is a component of a broader and necessary policy that the United States must follow to protect itself from and compete with Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. Former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis dont find the war to present a considerable threat to American interests and have called on the combatants to reach a settlement, whatever the terms. Biotech magnate Vivek Ramaswamy says that defending Ukraine is not of vital importance to America and opposes sending any more money to the country. Ramaswamy does consider though, that the war and how it has affected American access to oil and gas is evidence that the United States needs to do better in working toward energy independence. Senator Tim Scott from South Carolina believes that dealing a blow to Russia is in the best interest of the United States but says that support cant be open-ended. Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson is a proponent of aiding Ukraine, saying that Russia losing the war will deter China from acting aggressively. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. A memorandum of understanding on energy transition has been signed between the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan and Maire Tecnimont within the framework of the Baku Energy Week, Trend reports. The document was signed by Deputy Minister of Energy Elnur Soltanov and CEO and Chief Operating Officer of Maire Tecnimont Alessandro Bernini. The purpose of the memorandum is to strengthen cooperation between the parties on energy issues, including in the field of renewable energy sources, the transition to green energy, as well as energy efficiency. The document also focuses on the possibilities of cooperation in such areas as low-carbon technologies, energy recovery from waste, green hydrogen, biofuels (liquid or gaseous transport fuels, such as biodiesel and bioethanol), and reduction of methane emissions. Biden Administration Sues Companies Owned by Republican Running for US Senate President Joe Bidens administration has sued more than a dozen companies owned by West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice, a Republican who is running for the U.S. Senate, and some members of his family. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) states in the lawsuit that the companies and Justices son, who is the primary controller of many of the businesses, violated federal law by not paying penalties assessed for unresolved issues. A & G Coal Corp. and the other companies owe money for more than 130 violations, which were assessed starting in 2018, according to the 128-page suit that was filed on May 30 in a U.S. court in Virginia. According to the complaint, a raft of issues has gone unresolved, including preventing surface water from eroding roads, discharging outside permitted areas, clearing rock and debris from roads after a rock fall, and properly disposing of waste. The companies also failed to make sure that permits complied with the Clean Water Act requirements, provide certified reports on impoundments, and remove excess sediment from basins, the government claims. The violations occurred in Tennessee. The notices of violations were issued under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. After receiving a notice, companies have time to resolve the problems and, if they do not, they can be ordered to halt mining activity until the resolution of the violations. The defendants didnt challenge the notices but didnt correct the issues and failed to pay fines assessed thereafter, government officials say. Justice and his son were ordered in 2021 to pay $2.9 million over violations at mines they operate in Kentucky. A county judge found the companies didnt carry out agreed-upon actions, including keeping tabs on water quality. A federal appeals court ruled in April that the companies must pay $2.5 million in penalties for violating the Clean Water Act in multiple states. The administration is asking the court to award more than $5.7 million in addition to interest, late payment penalties, and administrative expenses. Our environmental laws serve to protect communities against adverse effects of industrial activities including surface coal mining operations, Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim, of the DOJs Environment and Natural Resources Division, said in a statement. Through this suit, the Justice Department seeks to deliver accountability for defendants repeated violations of the law and to recover the penalties they owe as a result of those violations. Justices son and the companies couldnt be reached for comment. No contacts are yet listed on the court docket. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden arrive at the White House South Lawn on May 30, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times) Accusations of Political Targeting Jim Justice, 72, is a co-owner of multiple companies named in the suit, but isnt listed as a defendant. Justice said at an unrelated briefing on May 31 that he didnt know the details of the accusations but that he expected to be briefed by his son. Ive announced as a Republican that Im running for the U.S. Senate, and the Biden administration is aware of the fact that with a win for the U.S. Senate and everything, we could very well flip the Senate, the governor said. This could be something in regard to that. The Democrats have seen the polls that show Jim Justice winning this race, and theyre panicking. So now the Biden Justice Department has decided to play politics, Roman Stauffer, Justices campaign manager, added in a statement. The National Republican Senatorial Committee offered a similar view. Joe Bidens Department of Justice has gone totally rogue. Democrats weaponizing the federal government to attack the family of a Republican Senate candidate is a complete abuse of power, Tate Mitchell, a spokesman for the group, said in a statement. The DOJ and White House didnt respond by press time to requests by The Epoch Times for comment. Democrats hold a 5149 majority in the upper chamber. Republicans hope a GOP candidate in 2024 can flip the seat currently held by West Virginias Joe Manchin, who is 75 and hasnt yet decided whether to run for another term. Justice is one of several Republicans who are vying in the GOP primary for the seat. Manchin won the 2018 race with 49.6 percent of the vote, beating West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey. Justice, who has a net worth of about $500 million, started his campaign in April. He was a Democrat until 2017. Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) arrives for a Senate Armed Services Committee briefing on Ukraine at the U.S. Capitol on March 2, 2023. (Stefani Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images) With regard to the companies, Justice said that his family would resolve any issues that arise. Ill promise you to God above that absolutely anything about our waters, our environment, in any way, our workersno matter what it may bewe will absolutely take care of it, he said. My son and my daughter and our companies and everything will always fulfill obligations, every single one. Biden Sexual Assault Accuser Says She Fled to Russia Fearing for Her Life Tara Reade, a former Senate staffer who accused President Joe Biden of sexual assault, said Tuesday that she is taking refuge in Russia. In an hour-long interview she did alongside convicted Russian agent Maria Butina for Russian state media Stupnik, the 59-year-old woman said she feels safe in the country. Im still kind of in a daze a bit but I feel very good, she said, according to Sputnik. I feel very surrounded by protection and safety. And I just really so appreciate Maria and everyone whos been giving me that at a time when its been very difficult to know if Im safe or not. During the Sputnik interview, Reade said she made a very difficult decision to flee Bidens America because she no longer feels safe, claiming that her life was under threats due to her allegations against the president. I just didnt want to walk home and walk into a cage or be killed, which is basically my two choices, she said, according to Sputnik. I felt that while this election is gearing up and theres so much at stake, Im almost better off here and just being safe. Reade, who has a history of speaking in favor of Russian President Vladimir Putin, also praised how accommodating the Kremlin has been toward her and like-minded people. There are people here that are coming to Russiamuch like back in the day when Soviet Union people defected over to the U.S.now you have the opposite. Now you have U.S. and European citizens looking for safe haven here, she told Sputnik. And luckily, the Kremlin is accommodating. So were lucky. At another point in the interview, Reade said she would like to apply for citizenship in Russia, from the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, promising to be a good citizen. But she still wishes to keep her U.S. citizenship. My dream is to live in both places, but it may be that I only live in this place and thats okay, she said. The Accusation In 2020, Reade alleged that then-presidential nominee Biden had sexually assaulted her when she worked for his Senate office in 1993 by pinning her against a wall, forcefully kissing her, putting his hands under her clothing, and penetrating her with his fingers. She reported that at the time, He said, Come on, man, I heard you liked me.' Reade could not remember the exact location or date of the alleged assault, but said it happened when a supervisor asked her to deliver a duffel bag to Biden on Capitol Hill. Biden has denied Reades accusations, saying that the alleged incident never, never happened. Im not going to question her motive, Biden said in an interview with MSNBC in 2020. Im not going to do that at all. I dont know why shes saying this. I dont know why after 27 years this gets raised. Reade, who described herself as a long-time Democrat, had not received much support from influential female Democrats such as Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren or former presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, who had endorsed Biden in his bid for the presidency. Those endorsements prompted Reade to walk away from the Democratic Party. I voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016. I voted for her in the primary. Im a lifelong Democrat. But yet, what I see now is someone enabling a sexual predator, and it was my former boss, Joe Biden, who raped me, Reade told Fox News. Hillary Clinton has a history of enabling powerful men to cover up their sexual predatory behaviors and their inappropriate sexual misconduct. We dont need that for this country. We dont need that for our new generation coming up that wants institutional rape culture to change. Meanwhile, Rep. Alexander Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) had expressed frustration about the apparent lack of mainstream discussion surrounding Reades allegations, describing the situation as a form of gaslighting. I think its legitimate to talk about these things. And if we want, if we again want to have integrity, you cant say both believe women, support all of this, until it inconveniences you, until it inconveniences us, the congresswoman said in an April 2020 interview with The Wing, a now-defunct womens-only social club. Big Short Investor Warns of Potential $200 Billion Housing Market Crash Due to Underestimated Flood Risks Trucks and a resident on foot make their way through receding floodwaters in the Sailboat Bend neighborhood of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on April 13, 2023. (Rebecca Blackwell/AP Photo) Dave Burt, CEO of DeltaTerra Capital and renowned Big Short investor who foresaw the 2008 housing crisis, has voiced his concern over a potential repeat of the crisis. His worry is centered on what he sees as an underestimation of the systemic risk flooding poses to the mortgage market. Burts successful prediction of the subprime mortgage crisis and his consequent financial gains while at New Yorks Cornwall Capital were documented in Michael Lewiss bestseller, The Big Short. This work of nonfiction highlighted the events leading to the 2008 economic meltdown. Years after the 2008 crisis, Burt asserts that the mortgage market is disregarding the risk flooding presents, which could potentially catalyze another housing market crash. DeltaTerras studies indicate that 20 percent of U.S. homes have significant exposure to a pricing discrepancy due to flood risks. This discrepancy could devalue the housing market by up to $200 billion from its 2022 valuation of $45.3 trillion. Burt explained to CNBC, We think of this repricing issue as maybe a quarter of the size and magnitude of the [global financial crisis] in aggregate, but of course very, very damaging within those exposed communities. He suggests that if lenders fail to acknowledge the potential consequences of flood risks, a 2008-esque price adjustment may be imminent. Homes devastated by floods dramatically depreciate, exposing mortgage borrowers to the risk of loan default. Burt elaborated, Ultimately, until people have good information about what these climate-related costs are going to look like, were creating new problems every day. I think thats really the crux of the matter. Burt has previously expressed his concerns about looming flood risks. He said, Im always on the lookout for these big systemic issues, and theres a few reasons for that If something is mispriced, then as an investor, your main opportunity to add value is to identify something that is either too cheap to purchase for your clients or something that it is too expensive to sell for your client. He identified single-family homes as the most vulnerable properties in floods, which are the most frequent natural disaster in the United States. Last September, for example, Hurricane Ian inflicted over $100 billion in damage, making it the third costliest hurricane in U.S. history, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The hurricane exposed deficiencies in Florida homeowners flood insurance as many battled for compensation checks insufficient to cover their homes damage, rendering them uninhabitable. A satellite image shows tropical storm Hanna, which is expected to strengthen to a hurricane, in the Gulf of Mexico, approaching the coast of Louisiana, on Oct. 27, 2020. (NOAA/Handout via Reuters) Burt reiterated the importance of factoring in the cost of home maintenance, including potential flood damage, when buying a home. His comments align with a period of month-to-month volatility in home sales. April saw a 13-month high in new U.S. single-family home sales. Last month, new home sales rose 4.1 percent to a seasonally adjusted rate of 683,000 units, the highest since March 2022, as reported by the Department of Commerce. This increase was largely due to a chronic shortage of previously owned homes on the market. However, this months sales pace was revised lower to 656,000 units, mirroring rates similar to those in January 2018, pre-pandemic. New home sales are considered a leading indicator of the housing markets health, and they are known to fluctuate on a month-to-month basis. The National Association of Realtors reported last week that roughly half the country is experiencing rising home prices, multiple offers, and homes selling above list price. Boeing Boosts 787 Dreamliner Production Rate to 4 a Month A Boeing logo during the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva on May 23, 2022. (Denis Balibouse/Reuters) CHARLESTON, South CarolinaBoeing Co. has increased production of its widebody 787 Dreamliner from three to four planes per month as it gets ready to ramp to five a month by the end of the year, a company official said on Tuesday. The U.S. planemaker also plans to add a second production line to the companys facilities in Charleston, South Carolina, as it completes work this year on inventory 787s that are being modified at the site to meet U.S. Federal Aviation Administration standards, said Lane Ballard, Boeings vice president and general manager for the 787 program. The modification involves fixing miniscule gaps in the forward pressure bulkhead that exceed specifications. Boeings plant in Everett, Washington, where 787s also are being modified to meet FAA standards, will continue doing that work, Ballard added. Ballard announced the rate increase as reporters toured the companys Charleston production facility two months after Boeing announced a large order for almost 200 Dreamliners. In April, the company said it had stabilized 787 production at three jets per month after producing Dreamliners at a lower rate earlier in the year. Boeing previously said it plans to deliver 7080 of these jets in 2023. By Valerie Insinna Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz to Retire Next Month Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz will retire next month after more than three decades with the agency, he has announced. After a 32-year Border Patrol career spanning multiple Sectors, HQ tours, and overseas assignments in Afghanistan, I have decided to retire from federal service on June 30th, Ortiz wrote in an email to employees, which was obtained by the Daily Caller News Foundation. I leave at ease, knowing we have a tremendous uniformed and professional workforce, strong relationships with our union partners, and outstanding leaders who will continue to tirelessly advocate for you each day, Ortiz said. Its not clear yet who will replace Ortiz, who began working as chief in August 2021 after his predecessor, Rodney Scott, retired when the Biden administration asked him to step down. Scott had voiced support for some of former President Donald Trumps policies, including completing the building of a wall along the southern border. Ortizs retirement comes shortly after the end of the Title 42 emergency health restrictions that began in March 2020 and allowed Border Patrol agents to turn illegal aliens back to Mexico immediately if they were deemed to pose a health threat. Ortiz managed the Border Patrol, an agency of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and its roughly 20,000 agents through the COVID-19 pandemic and Title 42 emergency health restrictions. Data shows that the federal agency he oversaw encountered a record-high 2.2 million illegal migrant encounters at the southern U.S. border in 2022. Migrants cross the Tijuana River bed towards the San Diego port of entry to the United States on May 11, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times) New Border Restrictions Ortiz also helped oversee the roll-out of new restrictions this month meant to curb illegal border crossings. Under those restrictions, Mexico will continue to accept migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba, and Nicaragua who are turned away at the border, while the United States will take in up to 100,000 individuals from Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador under a family reunification parole process. However, Manny Bayon, a National Border Patrol Council union spokesman in San Diego, has claimed that some illegal immigrants are finding a back door deal to gain entry to the U.S. on humanitarian grounds by voluntarily withdrawing their asylum claims, returning to Mexico, and then entering the U.S. via humanitarian parole. The Biden administration has reported a decline in crossings at the border in the wake of Title 42 despite widespread concerns the number would soar. So far, in fiscal year 2023, agents have recorded more than 1.8 million encounters at the border. Ortizs retirement comes after he told lawmakers at a House Homeland Security Committee hearing in March that DHS lacked operational control of the U.S. southern border and that migration flows in some areas were in a crisis situation, contradicting previous remarks made by DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas that the department has operational control of the border. A Texas National Guard soldier watches as an illegal immigrant walks into a makeshift camp in El Paso, Texas, on May 11, 2023. (John Moore/Getty Images) Mayorkas Praises Great Leader Ortiz In a DHS statement late Tuesday, Mayorkas called Ortiz a great leader who embodies the core values of vigilance, service to country, and integrity, as well as the Border Patrols motto: honor first. I knew when I became Secretary that Chief of the Border Patrol would be one of the most critical positions to fill. At the time, Chief Ortiz was planning to retire; convincing him to remain in service and selecting him to lead the Border Patrol was among the most important decisions I have made, Mayorkas said. Chief Ortiz agreed to postpone his retirement several times since, and the Border Patrol, the Department, and our country have been all the better for it. Mayorkas went on to state that Ortiz has tackled some of the biggest challenges the Border Patrol has had to face, including the critical transition out of the COVID pandemic and into the enforcement of our traditional immigration authorities under Title 8 of the United States Code. He championed our effort to increase the number of case processors in order to get our Agents and Officers back into the field. His commitment to the wellbeing of the workforce and to championing their priorities are among the clearest examples of his unsurpassed devotion to duty; he is the model of a law enforcement leader, Mayorkas wrote. The Border Patrol is stronger, and our nation is more secure, thanks to his leadership. I will miss his candor, our thought partnership, and our friendship. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to him for more than 32 years of dedicated service to the United States Border Patrol. We are forever grateful for his service and sacrifice, and that of his family who have served right alongside him, he added. Boy, 11, Shot in Chest by Mississippi Police Officer After Calling 911 for Help Credits Grace of God for Surviving An 11-year-old boy who was shot by a police officer at his home in Mississippi after calling law enforcement for help says he believes it is because of the grace of God that he is still alive today. Aderrien Murry was shot in the chest by Indianola Police Department officer Greg Capers in the early hours of the morning on May 20 as the officer responded to a domestic disturbance at the home. The young boy had called 911 at the request of his mother, Nakala, after her daughters father had knocked on her window at 4 a.m. and appeared to be irate. However, things took a turn when police arrived on the scene and the young boy was subsequently shot in the chest, leaving him with a collapsed lung, fractured ribs, and a lacerated liver from the shooting. Incredibly, the boy survived and was later released from hospital. Speaking to CNN on May 30, young Aderrien explained how he thought he would die after being shot and began singing the Bible verse, Isaiah 54:17: No Weapon Formed Against Me Shall Prosper in the moments after the incident. Nightmares After Shooting He also apologized to his mother for any of his bad behavior in the past and asked that she say sorry to his teacher for any time he was bad in class. While he survived the incident, the young boy revealed he has been suffering nightmares from the shooting. Sometimes, I can see myself laying inside the coffin. Those are my thoughts at night, my only ones, he said. Sometimes I think people are watching me. But my main thought is me dead, inside the coffin. Aderriens mother told ABC News that two officers responded to her home in Indianola after she directed her son to call them over fears for her familys safety when her daughters father arrived at the home. When the officers arrived, she said one had a gun drawn and asked the family to open the door. However, her daughters father asked her not to open the door and proceeded to run to the back of the home, at which point police began attempting to kick the door in, she said. Her son was shot coming around the corner of a hallway into the living room, she said. I went out; I got out of the way. I walked out toward the end of my driveway, where my mom was. And I heard a shot and I saw my son run out toward where we were, she said, recalling the shooting. Family Files $5 Million Lawsuit Aderriens family has since filed a lawsuit against the city of Indianola, Indianola Police Chief Ronald Sampson, Officer Greg Capers, and othersreferred to as John Doesseeking at least $5 million in damages, Carlos Moore, an attorney for Aderriens family, confirmed. The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi. It claims excessive force, negligence, and a violation of Aderriens constitutional rights, among others. Plaintiffs are seeking damages for Aderriens injuries, pain and suffering, and emotional distress as well as punitive damages against the officer and the city. During the same interview Tuesday, Nakala Murry called for Officer Capers to be fired and for better training among police officers. She has also asked for body camera footage of the incident to be released. Im angry, but Im so overfilled with joy to have my child that I dont have time to be angry; I trust in the law that they will make the right decision, she said. Something has to be done. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) is probing the incident. Indianola Mayor Ken Featherstone told CNN that he needs to know all the facts before he can support Officer Capers firing, noting that he has not yet reviewed the body camera footage or spoken to the officer, who has since been placed on administrative leave. The Epoch Times has contacted Indianola Mayor Ken Featherstones office for further comment. British Officials Are Legitimate Military Target, Warns Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev claims UK's support for Kyiv means 'undeclared war' against Russia Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, delivers a speech during a ceremony marking Shipbuilder's Day in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on June 29, 2022. (Sputnik/Valentin Yegorshin/Pool via Reuters) British public officials are now legitimate military target because of the UKs support for Ukraine, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has warned. Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russian President Vladimir Putins Security Council, claimed the UKs support for Kyiv amounted to an undeclared war against Russia. In a Twitter post on Wednesday, Medvedev wrote: The goofy officials of the UK, our eternal enemy, should remember that within the framework of the universally accepted international law which regulates modern warfare, including the Hague and Geneva Conventions with their additional protocols, their state can also be qualified as being at war. Today, the UK acts as Ukraines ally providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto is leading an undeclared war against Russia. That being the case, any of its public officials (either military, or civil, who facilitate the war) can be considered as a legitimate military target. Drone Attacks on Moscow Medvedevs comments came after British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said on Tuesday that Ukraine had the right to project force beyond its borders to resist the Russian invasion. Cleverly was responding to questions about drone attacks on Moscow earlier in the day, which Russian authorities blamed on Ukraine. Britains Foreign Secretary James Cleverly leaves 10 Downing Street in London on March 7, 2023. (Justin Tallis/AFP via Getty Images) Russian authorities said drones crashed into three residential buildings in Moscow in the early hours of May 30, causing no casualties and only minor damage. The Russian Defence Ministry described it as a terrorist attack and blamed Ukraine for the incident. Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian presidential aide, denied Kyiv was directly involved but said we are pleased to watch events and forecast more such strikes. Asked about the incident at a press conference in Estonia, Cleverly said: Ukraine does have the legitimate right to defend itself. It has the legitimate right to do so within its own borders of course, but it does also have the right to project force beyond its borders to undermine Russias ability to project force into Ukraine itself. So legitimate military targets beyond its own border are part of Ukraines self-defence. And we should recognise that. Cleverlys stance appears to differ from that of the United States. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at a briefing on Tuesday: We do not support attacks inside of Russia. Thats it. Period. A specialist inspects the damaged facade of a multi-storey apartment building after a reported drone attack in Moscow on May 30, 2023. (Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP via Getty Images) Attacks Inside Russia Tuesdays incident was the second drone attack to target the Russian capital in less than a month. On May 2, the Kremlin itself was targeted by two combat drones, which failed to cause casualties or significant material damage. Since Russia invaded Ukraine early last year, attacks inside Russian territoryof varying size and intensityhave occurred with increasing frequency. On May 22, pro-Ukrainian forces staged a large-scale assault, using drones and artillery, on Russias western Belgorod region. In March, Russias Bryansk region was the target of a similar cross-border attack. In both cases, the attackers were swiftly repelled by Russian security forces. Last December, three Russian airbasesall inside Russian territorywere struck by drones, damaging aircraft and killing servicemen. While Kyiv refrained from claiming responsibility, the attacks were celebrated by Ukrainian officials. UK defence officials believe the incursions into Russia are causing the redeployment of Moscows forces. The intelligence briefing from the Ministry of Defence said: Since the start of May 2023, Russia has increasingly ceded the initiative in the conflict and is reacting to Ukrainian action rather than actively progressing towards its own war aims. During May 2023, Russia has launched 20 nights of one-way-attack uncrewed aerial vehicle and cruise missile attacks deep inside Ukraine. Russia has had little success in its likely aims of neutralising Ukraines improved air defences and destroying Ukrainian counter-attack forces. On the ground, it has redeployed security forces to react to partisan attacks inside western Russia. PA Media and Reuters contributed to this report. Bud Light Giving LGBTQ Organization $200,000 in Donation The company remains adamant in its support of LGBTQ-related events, despite nationwide boycotts and decline in sales numbers A 12-ounce can of Bud Light on a railing at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Fla. on May 26, 2023. (T.J. Muscaro/The Epoch Times) Bud Light has announced that it intends to donate money to a cause supporting LGBTQ business ownersa decision coming at a time when the companys sales are getting hammered from customers opposing a transgender agenda. Bud Light will donate $200,000 to the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) in support of the organizations Communities of Color Initiative (CoCi), which aims to support the growth and success of minority LGBTQ+ owned businesses, the company said in a press release on May 30. Bud Light will also support NGLCCs CoCi Biz Pitch program, in which the winning LGBTQ business owner will receive $5,000. The contribution comes after the popular beer brand recently triggered large-scale controversy due to using a transgender influencer, Dylan Mulvaney, in one of its campaigns last month. The promotion attracted intense criticism, with multiple conservative celebrities calling for boycotting the brand, which has driven down the parent company Anheuser Buschs stock price by 18.19 percent, with $23.87 billion lost in market valuation between April 3 and May 30. Bud Light was brewed to be an Easy to Drink, Easy to Enjoy beer for everyone 21-plus, and that still holds true today, said Anheuser-Busch. We look forward to extending our work with the NGLCC to continue making a positive impact on the LGBTQ+ businesses that play a critical role in bringing people everywhere, together. Over the past two decades, Anheuser-Busch has contributed over $13 million to local and national nonprofit organizations committed to advocating for LGBTQ. Crashing Sales According to data analyzed by Newsweek, in the first four weeks of Bud Lights controversy until April 29, the beer companys sales dropped by 17.2 percent and volumes fell by 21.4 percent compared to the year-ago period. In the four weeks ended May 20, sales revenue dropped by 24.3 percent. Dave Williams, vice president for analytics and insights at Bump Williams Consulting, pointed out that the sales results of Bud Light raises questions about the potential long-term implications. The rate of sales decline has been a bit steeper in May than in April, he admitted. The absolute magnitude could still creep up if those percentage drops are going up against bigger holiday/summer weeks in the [year-ago] time period, Williams said. One thing is for sure, the rate of decline has not gotten any better just yet. A couple of weeks back, former Anheuser-Busch executive Anson Frericks told Fox News that the Bud Light boycott wasnt going to end anytime soon. Consumers feel like theyre having an impact. And every single week, these sales numbers are being reported, and theyre getting worse and worse every single week, he said. So, I see this continuing to drag on until Bud Light makes a comment about what they stand for and what customers theyre going to serve. Sponsoring Events Bud Light is also continuing to promote LGBTQ events amid the Mulvaney backlash. The Bud Light Pride River Parade & Celebration is scheduled for June 10 in San Antonio, Texas. The Bud Light Pride River Parade was created by Visit San Antonio to promote the citys inclusion, encouragement, and support of the LGBTQ+ community to live openly with equal rights, the event states. The Chicago Pride Fest, which will feature a Youth Pride Space for teens among other events, is scheduled for June 1718. It mentions Cutwater Spirit as a presentera brand owned by Anheuser-Busch. The Pride St. Louis event scheduled for June 2425 lists Bud Light as a corporate sponsor. More than 300,000 people are expected to take part in the event. Meanwhile, Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has called on the national trade association Beer Institute to investigate Anheuser-Buschs recent and ongoing marketing partnership with Dylan Mulvaney. The Beer Institute must examine whether your company (Anheuser-Busch) violated the Beer Institutes Advertising/Marketing Code and Buying Guidelines prohibiting marketing to individuals younger than the legal drinking age, the letter said. Evidence suggests that Dylan Mulvaneys audience skews significantly younger than the legal drinking age and violates the Beer Institutes Advertising/Marketing Code and Buying Guidelines. Bud Light Sales Decline Shows Few Signs of Stopping Soon Bud Light beer cans sit on a table in right field during the Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore, Md., on Sept. 19, 2019. (Rob Carr/Getty Images) As boycotts spread through different industries, Bud Light has continued to see declining sales after engaging with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney two months ago. According to data by Bump Williams Consulting and Nielsen IQ, sales of Bud Light dropped 25.7 percent for the week ending May 20, reported the New York Post. Its nearest rival, Modelo Especial, saw its sales increase by 9.2 percent for the same week, Williams said. Overall, Bud Lights sales are down 24.3 percent for the four-week period that ended on May 20, the data show. Modelo, meanwhile, has grown by 8 percent in the same timeframe. Perhaps the biggest winner is Pennsylvania-based Yuengling, which bills itself as Americas Oldest Brewery, as the brands Yuengling Flight has increased by 47.6 percent in the four-week period. While Bud Light loses week after week, Modelo Especial gains week after week and now Modelo outsells Bud Light on a national basis across all trade channels combined, marketing consultant Williams told the New York Post about the latest figures. If this continues Modelo will surpass Bud Light for the year. Anheuser-Busch InBev owns both Modelo and Bud Light. However, it doesnt control Modelo within the United States, where the lager is controlled by Constellation Brands, a firm based in New York. This is a big achievement for Modelo, but its short term, Benj Steinman, editor of Beer Marketers Insights, told the paper. Constellation is closing the gap and has said it wants to be the No. 1 beer. Other than Modelo and Yuengling, Coors Light, Miller Light, and Pabst Blue Ribbon have also seen significant increases since Bud Light produced cans with Mulvaneys face and as the transgender influencer claimed in a hashtag that he is a partner with Bud Light in early April. After those posts were made, it generated significant backlash on social media as some analysts questioned whether Bud Lights executives were out of touch with its customer base. As a result, sales of the beer have declined for six straight weeks, and Anheuser-Busch, the owner of the brand, has seen its shares tumble. At one point this month, an analyst with HSBC downgraded the companys stock to hold due to a Bud Light crisis that hasnt yet been resolved. The CEO of Anheuser-Busch InBev, Michel Doukeris, has stressed on multiple occasions that Bud Light didnt engage in a partnership with Mulvaney, a biological male, and that only one can was produced, while he added that it wasnt for sale. Doukeris further alleged that social media confusion and misinformation were the reason why the brand has seen its sales drop. Other Anheuser-Busch beers have seen their sales decline, too, according to another analyst. Data has shown that Budweisers sales have also dropped over the past several weeks, albeit not as much as Bud Light. Cases of canned Yuengling Traditional Lager are stacked in the warehouse of the D.G. Yuengling & Son Brewery Mill Creek plant, on July 21, 2020. (Lindsey Shuey/The Republican-Herald) There continues to be contagion to the wider [Anheuser-Busch] brand portfolio, with Budweiser, Busch, and Michelob all weak again, Simon Hales said of Bud Lights prospects in a statement to Yahoo Finance. The latest data shows little sign that consumers are moving on from the Bud Light controversy, and we expect these issues will continue to weigh on investor sentiment. And Dave Williams, of Bump Williams, told Newsweek on Tuesday that Bud Lights sales decline does appear to be plateauing, adding that the company isnt close to being out of the woods. The absolute magnitude could still creep up if those percentage drops are going up against bigger holiday/summer weeks in the [year ago] time period, Williams said. One thing is for sure, the rate of decline has not gotten any better just yet. Ad Campaigns Notably, Bud Light rolled out a Memorial Day rebate campaign that essentially gave away a 15-pack of beer in some places. The campaign started May 17 and lasts until May 31, where consumers can get up to $15 on Bud Light. At the local level, at least one distributor released a radio ad that sought to bring back Bud Light customers. Alabama-based Bama Budweiser released an advertisement this month that attempted to distance itself and Bud Light from Mulvaney. We too at Bama Budweiser are upset about it and have made our feelings known to the top leadership at Anheuser-Busch, Steve Tatum, with Bama Budweiser, said in the radio advertisement, according to several news reports. The voice of the consumer has been heard, and Anheuser-Busch has taken action. The ad also stated: Mulvaney is not under contract with Bud Light. The videos you may have seen are Mulvaneys own social media posts that went viral, and many web-based news outlets have distorted the story. It didnt elaborate but said consumers deserve to know the truth about the situation. Again pivoting, Tatum says that life is too short to let a couple of individuals decide what you can eat or drink or spend your hard-earned money on. And remember, making friends is our business, not enemies, according to the reports. The Epoch Times has approached Anheuser-Busch InBev for comment on Tuesday. California Overtime Law Threatens Use of Grazing Goats to Prevent Wildfires Goats graze on dry grass next to a housing complex in West Sacramento, Calif., on May 17, 2023. (Terry Chea/AP Photo) WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif.Hundreds of goats munch on long blades of yellow grass on a hillside next to a sprawling townhouse complex. They were hired to clear vegetation that could fuel wildfires as temperatures rise this summer. These voracious herbivores are in high demand to devour weeds and shrubs that have proliferated across California after a drought-busting winter of heavy rain and snow. Its a huge fuel source. If it was left untamed, it can grow very high. And then when the summer dries everything out, its perfect fuel for a fire, said Jason Poupolo, parks superintendent for the city of West Sacramento, where goats grazed on a recent afternoon. Jason Puopolo, parks superintendent for City of West Sacramento, and Tim Arrowsmith, owner of Western Grazers, look at a herd of grazing sheep in West Sacramento, Calif., on May 17, 2023. (Terry Chea/AP Photo) Targeted grazing is part of Californias strategy to reduce wildfire risk because goats can eat a wide variety of vegetation and graze in steep, rocky terrain thats hard to access. Backers say theyre an eco-friendly alternative to chemical herbicides or weed-whacking machines that make noise and pollution. But new state labor regulations are making it more expensive to provide goat-grazing services, and herding companies say the rules threaten to put them out of business. The changes could raise the monthly salary of herders from about $3,730 to $14,000, according to the California Farm Bureau. Companies typically put about one herder in charge of 400 goats. Many of the herders in California are from Peru and live in employer-provided trailers near grazing sites. Labor advocates say the state should investigate the working and living conditions of goatherders before making changes to the law, especially since the state is funding goat-grazing to reduce wildfire risk. California is investing heavily in wildfire prevention after the state was ravaged by several years of destructive flames that scorched millions of acres, destroyed thousands of homes, and killed dozens of people. Goats have been used to clear fuels around Lake Oroville, along Highway 101, and near the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. My phone rings off the hook this time of year, said Tim Arrowsmith, owner of Western Grazers, which is providing grazing services to West Sacramento. The demand has grown year after year after year. His company, based in the Northern California city of Red Bluff, has about 4,000 goats for hire to clear vegetation for government agencies and private landowners across Northern California. Without a fix to the new regulations, we will be forced to sell these goats to slaughter and to the auction yards, and well be forced out of business and probably file for bankruptcy, Arrowsmith said. Companies have historically been allowed to pay goat and sheepherders a monthly minimum salary rather than an hourly minimum wage, because their jobs require them to be on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. But legislation signed in 2016 also entitles them to overtime pay. It effectively boosted the herders minimum monthly pay from $1,955 in 2019 to $3,730 this year. Its set to hit $4,381 in 2025, according to the California Department of Industrial Relations. So far the herding companies, which have sued over the law, have passed along most of the increased labor costs to their customers. But in January, those labor costs are set to jump sharply again. Goatherders and sheepherders have always followed the same set of labor rules last year. But a state agency has ruled thats no longer allowed, meaning goatherders would be subject to the same labor laws as other farm workers. That would mean goatherders would be entitled to ever higher payup to $14,000 a month. Last year a budget trailer bill delayed that pay requirement for one year, but its set to take effect on Jan. 1 if nothing is done to change the law. Goat herding companies say they cant afford to pay herders that much. They would have to drastically raise their rates, which would make it unaffordable to provide goat grazing services. We fully support increasing wages for herders, but $14,000 a month is not realistic. So we need to address that in order to allow these goat-grazing operations to exist, said Brian Shobe, deputy policy director for the California Climate and Agriculture Network. Goats graze on dry grass next to a housing complex in West Sacramento, Calif., on May 17, 2023. (Terry Chea/AP Photo) The goat-grazing industry is pushing the Legislature to approve legislation that would treat goatherders the same as sheepherders. A bill to do so hasnt yet received a public hearing. Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, who heads the California Labor Federation, said goatherders are among the most vulnerable workers in America because they are on temporary work visas and can be fired and sent back to their home country anytime. Most of them work in isolation, speak minimal English, and dont have the same rights as Americans or green-card holders. We have a responsibility as a public to ensure that every worker whos working in California is treated with dignity and respect, and that includes these goatherders, said Gonzalez Fletcher, who sponsored the farmworker overtime bill when she was a state Assemblywoman representing San Diego. Arrowsmith employs seven goatherders from Peru under the H-2A visa program for temporary farmworkers. He said the herders are paid about $4,000 a month and dont have to pay for food, housing, or phones. I cant pay $14,000 a month to an employee starting Jan. 1. Theres just not enough money. The cities cant absorb that kind of cost, Arrowsmith said. Whats at stake for the public is your house could burn up because we cant fire-mitigate. By Terry Chea BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) held a meeting with insurance agents who are actively working in the insurance market, Taleh Kazimov, Governor of the CBA, wrote on Twitter, Trend reports. The issues of strengthening the role of insurance agents in the growth of the insurance market were discussed. "The issues of development of the insurance market with insurance agents, who are important professional participants in the insurance market, were analyzed, and an exchange of views was held on strengthening the institution of an insurance agent," the publication says. Chinas Xi Is Not Getting What He Wants Xi has fundamentally changed Chinas economic objectives and has already run into trouble Commentary China featured large in a recent article carried by the prestigious The Atlantic magazine. In those pages, China experts from the American Enterprise Institute, Dan Blumenthal and Derek Scissors, dissected the change Xi Jinping has wrought in the countrys economic objectives since he took office in 2013. All his predecessors, from Deng Xiaoping to Hu Jintao, had straightforward aims: promoting growth to develop Chinas economy at every level, elevating Chinas stature globally, and securing domestic tranquility by improving the lot of the Chinese people. Xi, in contrast, has more particular and militant goals. According to this analysis, he aims to minimize Chinas dependence on other nations and maximize its ability to coerce other nations. His plans are not working smoothly at all. It is not apparent that they ever could. Xis plan, according to these two analysts, rests on his assertion that the powerful gravitational field of Chinas state-controlled market will reshape supply chains in Beijings favor. To exercise such overwhelming control, Xi has tried to dominate global production in a number of critical areas. China already produces most of the worlds electric vehicles and lithium batteries. The same could be said of windmills and solar panels. It also plays a significant role in producing inputs to many of the worlds pharmaceuticals. China also controls the flow of rare earth elements necessary for producing many of these products. Xis program also looks to bring China global dominance in low-end computer chips. The aim is to create an oversupply that will drive foreign competition out of business. Further steps in Xis plan involve Chinese dominance in high-end technologies, some through organic development but mostly using trade to force transfers from the West and Japan and also by outright theft. The amount of control required by these efforts has impelled Xi to become less and less tolerant of private Chinese business largely because of its insistence on following profits instead of Beijings directions. These plans have clearly come up against difficulties. For one, Beijings more assertive behavior has induced pushback from Washington, Tokyo, and to a lesser extent, Europe. The United States now has legislation to thwart Beijings plan to add semiconductors to the list of essential products over which China has control. Washington now subsidizes semiconductor production in the United States and further forbids the sale of advanced chips and chipmaking equipment to China. Japan and the Netherlands have joined Washington in these bans. Meanwhile, Tokyo has made efforts to get the G-7 countries to acquire assets around the world and so block China from getting a stranglehold on rare earth elements. A loader shifts soil containing rare earth minerals to be loaded at a port in Lianyungang, Chinas Jiangsu Province, for export to Japan. China controls the worlds supply of rare earth minerals, and the United States is seeking partnerships with allies to reduce its dependence on China. (STR/AFP via Getty Images) Perhaps more significant than these government moves is the clear tendency of Western and Japanese producers to invest away from China. Apple, for example, has decided to move the assembly of its iPads from China to Vietnam. Samsung is making similar decisions regarding its production in China. Recent research reveals that 95 percent of multinationals are concerned about the risk of doing business in China, up from 62 percent only two years ago. To a large extent, it is the sharp rise in Chinese wages that is driving away this foreign investment, but it is also concerns about the reliability of Chinese production that stem from Beijings increasingly aggressive practices on trade as well as the demands for technology transfers. Xis approach has even begun to lose him domestic support. His critical rhetoric of private businesses lack of patriotism and unwillingness to support party policies has chafed and, not surprisingly, undermined business confidence in the future. Private Chinese firms have accordingly held back on their investments, which have grown a mere 0.6 percent in the past year. Xi is aware of the economic burdens this behavior has caused and, of late, has set out to woo private businesses with softer rhetoric, so far to little effect. Xi may yet make headway on his plans. After all, Chinas domestic market has grown so large that the West and Japan can hardly ignore it. But otherwise, it seems as though Beijing has overplayed its hand. Had Chinas government resisted pulling every power lever, it might have delayed the day when Washington, Tokyo, Europe, and foreign business awakened to Beijings open hostility. Now that damage is done. In one important sense, the fundamental inconsistency of Xis plans gives ample reason to doubt their ultimate success, even if Beijing had played a better game with the rest of the developed world. A nation cannot be independent of the world and dominate its trade simultaneously. To dominate trade, it must engage in it, making it vulnerable to buyers and sellers. That fact alone might defeat Xi however determined he is. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Chinese Ambassador Tries to Give Australia a Tax Lesson Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) escort ship Kurama sails through smoke during a fleet review off Sagami Bay, Kanagawa prefecture, on Oct. 18, 2015. Thirty-six MSDF vessels and navy ships from Australia, India, France, South Korea and the United States participated in the fleet review. (Toru Yamanaka/AFP via Getty Images) Commentary It is consoling to learn that the Chinese ambassador to Australia is concerned about how we spend our taxes. What, I wondered, could he impart to us about the expenditure of taxes by the Chinese authorities? Perhaps we could be building dozens of coal-fired power stations, as the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is doing? Perhaps a massive expansion of our navy, as the Peoples Liberation Army is undertaking. Are we perhaps threatening military exercises around one of our neighbours, such as the Solomon Islands? Perhaps there are things we need not bother spending taxes on, such as legal aid, as China has a 99 percent conviction rate, or pesky human rights bodies if you can ignore human rights. And who needs trade unions? But wait a minute, I thought. What Australian expenditure had actually worried the ambassador? Chinas ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, has denounced the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine plan as an unnecessary consumption of the hardworking Australian taxpayers money, according to a report in The Guardian. Xiao said the multi-decade defence plan would consume tremendous amounts of money which could be used for other purposes like infrastructure, like reducing the cost of living and giving the Australian people a better future. Chinas Ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, at the National Press Club in Canberra, Australia, on Aug. 10, 2022. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas) Why was he worried about this expenditure? Is it because the submarines will provide an added deterrence to the CCPs aggressive behaviour towards nations that insist on the international rule of law and uninterrupted transit of international skies and waters? Or is it because he believes Australia should deploy nuclear missiles on its nuclear-powered submarines just like China? It is undoubtedly the former reason. When the G-7 leaders meeting in Japan issued a statement in which they strongly opposed any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force, reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and called for peaceful resolution of Cross-Straits issues, the CCP objected. The Chinese foreign ministry summoned the Japanese ambassador over the references made in the statement following the meeting in Hiroshima. Japan, it claimed, was colluding with other nations in smearing and attacking China. Japans embassy in Beijing returned the comments, stating that it shared the concerns expressed in the statement unless the CCP changed its behaviour. The Japanese had good reason to maintain their stance. While the G-7 meeting was underway, a CCP coast guard boat entered Japanese territorial waters, attempting to disrupt the peaceful operations of the Japanese fishing fleet. The Chinese vessel remained in Japanese waters until forced out by the Japanese coast guard. These activities are not confined to aggression in Japanese waters. Chinese vessels have undertaken similar aggressive operations against the Philippines in the South China Sea. Philippine Coast Guard Petty Officer 3 John Solatre uses the radio on board the BRP Malabrigo to send a message to suspected Chinese militia ships near the Philippine-claimed Island of Thitu, locally known as Pag-asa island, at the South China Sea on April 21, 2023. (Aaron Favila/AP Photo) Not a Very Qualified Tax Instructor While the CCP is hypersensitive to observations that call out its aggressive behaviour, it continues to comment on the affairs of other nations. In an extremely rare event, the CCP muzzled one of the fiercest wolf warriors for the regime, refuting his comments and deleting them from social media recently. The Chinese ambassador to France, Lu Shaye, said in an interview on French television that former Soviet Union countries dont have actual status in international law because there is no international agreement to materialize their sovereign status. Following outrage across Europe, the transcript of Lus comments on WeChat was deleted. The Baltic states, in particular, concluded that China has no role as a mediator in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Asked about Lus comments, Chinas foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing respects the sovereignty of all former republics of the Soviet Union, which was dissolved in 1991. The embassy was forced to reject Lus remarks, saying they were just an expression of personal points of view! Lu was the one who had said previously that ideas about independence had brainwashed Taiwanese people and that they can become patriots after being re-educated. Many in the world are asking how China will use this growing influence, the German Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, said recently. I have to say frankly; I wonder why the Chinese position has so far not included a call upon the aggressor Russia to stop the war [in Ukraine]. On the contrary, Xi Jinpings Defence Minister Li Shangfu described Putins invasion of Ukraine as Putins contribution to the promotion of world peace during his visit to Moscow. When called out about its behaviour, the CCP reacts with its usual blustering hostility. I dont think Australia will be taking advice from the ambassador about how to spend its taxes. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Chinese Muslims Clash With Police Over Partial Demolition of Mosque in Yunnan The Chinese national flag flies over a mosque in the old city in Kashgar, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China, May 4, 2021. (Thomas Peter/Reuters) Chinese Muslims in Yunnan Province clashed with armed police in an attempt to stop the communist regimes forced partial demolition of a local mosque. Several viral videos on social media showed that protesters gathered at the entrance of Najiaying Mosque in Nagu Town of Yuxi City in Chinas southwestern Yunnan Province on May 27. A large number of special police equipped with batons and riot shields formed a human wall surrounding the mosques entrance to prohibit people from entering. In the video footage, some protesters tried to charge the police line, and some pushed down the scaffolding for the destruction work on the outer wall of the 14th-century mosque. Police used violent means to disperse the crowd, leading to a fierce clash between the two sides. The police line retreated once, and a demolition team also temporarily retreated. Discussion of the incident on Chinese social media platforms was quickly censored. A user named Ma Ju has been posting updates of the incident with video footage on Twitter, which has drawn major Western media outlets attention and reports. In one of the posts, Ma said the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) authorities dispatched a large number of police officers to be deployed throughout the city. Signal shielding vehicles from various telecommunications companies were put in place to shut down cellphone and internet connections in the area, he said. More than 30 people were arrested today, and a few people were snatched back from the police by other protesters, Ma wrote in a May 27 Twitter post. The post contained a video of a man in handcuffs with bruising on his chest, and a woman could be heard complaining about how he was being treated. On May 28, a video showed that under the escort of armed police, the engineering team continued to enter the Najiaying area, preparing for the forced demolition. Local Chinese police issued a notice on May 28, stating that an incident that seriously disrupted social order occurred in Nagu Town on May 27 and giving protesters until June 6 to turn themselves in. Ma wrote on Twitter on May 29: I must have done something right. In the past few days, I have received a lot of Twitter private messages that threatened to kill me. He attached examples of the messages to the post. Sinicization of Mosques Yang Na (pseudonym), a Chinese Muslim man with friends in Najiaying, told The Epoch Times on May 29 that the conflict started when Muslims refused a demand from the communist authorities that the mosque be remade in a Chinese style. They [Chinese authorities] want to demolish some parts of the mosque and rebuild it [in Chinese style]. The two styles wont match; it will be too ugly, Yang said. The Najiaying Mosque has a history of more than 600 years, with the current building completed in 2004. Its four stories high, has a dome and four ceremonial towers, and can accommodate more than 3,000 people. The authorities plan to remove the dome and minarets of the mosque. In recent years, CCP authorities have demanded the sinicization of religion, requiring newly built mosques to have Chinese palace-style domes in place of Islamic-style mosque domes. Yang said that there are more than 10,000 residents in Najiaying, most of whom are Hui Muslims. Chinese Muslim protesters in a standoff with riot police outside Najiaying Mosque in Nagu town in Yunnan Province, China. May 27, 2023. (Screenshot via The Epoch Times) Since the morning of May 27, the special police blocked all the roads in Najiaying Township; nobody could enter, exit only, Yang said. At that time, at least 1,000 special policemen entered the town with guns and ammunition. They tried to break their way into the mosque, but local protesters wouldnt let them. Our demand is simply that nothing would be demolished. We have not violated the law. Now we, the Muslims, are determined to die for it, and there is nothing else we can do. If a few more people are arrested, bloodshed will definitely erupt. Now it has escalated to the level of sending in the riot police, using the means to deal with rioters on us. Yang added that the authorities have now blocked the news. They didnt say what happened in the police notice but only that it disturbed social order. If anyone posts messages online, they will call and threaten them. I received a call from the police, threatening me not to post anything about the incident. Moreover, the government had installed cameras in mosques before the incident and sent secret agents to pretend to be Muslims attending worship to seek information, Yang said. The Epoch Times called more than a dozen local cellphones and landlines in Najiaying on May 29. Most showed that the calls had been answered, but no audio came through. The Tonghai County governments telephone was unreachable. International Attention Western and Middle East media have reported the incidents and reposted the videos of the clash. Ma wrote on Twitter on May 30, Because of the attention of the global media, your retweets and appeals, as of May 30 local time, everything is alright for now, indicating the mass arrests and bloodshed havent occurred. The spokesperson of the World Uyghur Congress, Dilshat Rishit, told The Epoch Times on May 29 that the international community must recognize the CCPs aim of taking away peoples right to spiritual belief. The CCP has expanded the extreme policies of eradicating spiritual belief and demolishing mosques in Xinjiang against Uyghurs to the rest of China, Rishit said. The Council on American-Islamic Relations, the largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States, called on the Biden administration on May 30 to take action to prevent China from partially demolishing the mosque and continuing to suppress the Muslim minority and the practice of Islam in mainland China. Ning Haizhong and Hong Ning contributed to this report. Chris Christies Achilles Heel Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie looks on prior to a game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Dec. 4, 2022. (Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images) Commentary Apparently, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is going to run for president in the Republican primary, throwing another hat in the ring that will soon have so many they could open a store. (Whos Ryan Binkley? Ditto Perry Johnson?) A super-PAC with the name Tell It Like It Is was formed for Christie, and will be led by, according to CBS, veteran GOP operative Brian Jones. Jones advised both Sen. Mitt Romney when he ran for president in 2012 and the late Sen. John McCain in 2008. Sounds like a winner, no? But Christie has a far bigger problem in what seems to be a quixotic attempt to achieve what he failed to do in 2016 than an adviser who counseled two losers. That problem is one of the most despised men by the GOP rank-and-file in the country FBI Director Christopher A. Wray. Wray was Christies attorney during the Bridgegate political revenge scandal and continued to work for the governor seven months after jurors found two of Christies former aides guilty of shutting the George Washington Bridge entrance lanes, according to the Asbury Park Press. The U.S. Supreme Court overturned the convictions in 2020, holding that the aides ordered the bridge lanes closed for no reason other than political payback and concluded that the fraud charges of which they were convicted couldnt be upheld since no property or money was involved. That paper further added: Wrays law firm has collected $2.1 million from New Jersey taxpayers since being hired by Christie in 2014, including $653,034 for work both during the six-week federal corruption trial and since then, according to bills obtained by the Asbury Park Press under a public records request. But Christies connection to Wray didnt end there. It was the former New Jersey governor who recommended Wray to then President Donald Trump for James Comeys replacement as FBI director. Yahoo News reports: Former President Donald Trump told Chris Christie that FBI Director Christopher Wray was the worst member of his administration and blamed Christie for recommending Wray for the role, the former New Jersey governor wrote in his forthcoming memoir. Christie writes that Trump randomly brought up Wrays job performance while Christie was at the White House helping the president prepare for his first debate with Joe Biden in September 2020. Do you want to know who the worst member of my administration is? Trump asked Christie, according to the book, Republican Rescue. Your guy. Your guy Chris Wray. Hes the worst. Christie writes that he urged Trump to hire Wray, a former federal prosecutor, after the president fired former FBI Director James Comey in the spring of 2017. Perhaps the most amazing part of all this is that Christie actually wrote about it in his memoir. Most would put any connection to Wray as far down the memory hole as possible, especially if he were planning to run for president as a Republican. Comeys replacement proved to be just as bad as his predecessor, doing anything that could forestall investigation of the increasingly disdained FBI, even post the Durham Report. Now, Wray faces a contempt of Congress charge for defying a subpoena in the Biden family investigation. Its not clear how this will play out, but the Washington Examiner has this report as of late May 30: FBI Director Christopher Wray blew through another subpoena deadline and faces a contempt charge for refusing to hand over a form allegedly describing a criminal scheme involving President Joe Biden. Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), chairman of the House Oversight Committee, who is conducting an investigation into Hunter Bidens overseas business dealings, said Tuesday the FBI again declined to hand over the FBI record, which lays out an alleged scheme tied to Joe Biden and a yet-unnamed foreign national during the presidents vice presidency. No one is surprised these days at the behavior of the FBI or its leadership, which many Republicans now see as tantamount to the police agencies of various totalitarian governments. Its seemingly more concerned with punishing its domestic enemies than protecting the populace. Most of the Republican candidates have been calling for the agencys total reformation as do what appears to be the vast majority of the conservative chattering class, but Christiethe backer of Christopher Stonewall Wraywants us to vote for him for president. Frankly, its unfathomable. I thought Christie himself was a prosecutor, that he believed in the rule of law, but that came under suspicion during Bridgegate. It isnt hard to predict that that same Republican rank-and-file that is currently urging Congress to hold Wray in contempt will have little use for a Christie candidacy. But that doesnt stop the man himself and his backers from going forward in what I call political lust in my forthcoming book American Refugees. They say the longer the list of candidates, the more likely Trumps nomination. But that doesnt stop the lusty. Roger L. Simons 14th bookAmerican Refugeeswill be published by Encounter in September. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Class Action ADA Suit Forces Portland to Clear Sidewalks of Homeless Camps Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler speaks to the media at City Hall in Portland, Ore., on Aug. 30, 2020. (Nathan Howard/Getty Images) The City of Portland, Oregon, will be required to clear its sidewalks of sprawling homeless camps under terms of a lawsuit tentatively settled this week. Filed in September, the federal class action lawsuit alleged that the city violated the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 by allowing tent camps and debris to obstruct sidewalks. The plaintiffs included nine people with disabilities who use wheelchairs, scooters, canes, and walkers to get around. I dont always welcome being sued, but this is a notable exception, said Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler. I agree with this suit. People should have access to the Citys sidewalks without impediment regardless of whether they have disabilities or not. And the ADA is very explicit about the rights of people with disabilities, and I believe those rights were impinged by the large number of obstructions on our sidewalks. Among other allegations, plaintiffs in Tozer v. Portland claimed that the Multnomah County government contributed to the proliferation of the homeless camps that blocked the sidewalks when its Joint Office of Homeless Services (JOHS) used $2 million in COVID-relief funding to purchase more than 22,000 tents and 69,000 tarps and distribute them to the homeless over a two-year period. The resulting lawsuit will cost area taxpayers an additional $20 million. Plaintiffs Make Their Case Before voting to adopt the proposed settlement, the Portland City Council heard public testimony at its May 31 meeting. Plaintiff Steve Jackson, who is legally blind and uses a cane, said tent encampments prevented him from using the sidewalk and accessing bus stops. Often theres tents blocking the entire sidewalk, where I dont see them because they werent there the day before, and I hit the tent and then people are mad at me and think Im attacking them, Jackson testified. More than 82,000 people, or roughly 13 percent of Portlanders, live with a disability, said plaintiff Tiana Tozer. She explained that camps frequently take up the entire width of sidewalks and that trash and tents have been blocking the sidewalks for years. This change will benefit more than just the disabled, said plaintiff Keith Martin We want to clear the sidewalks to help everyone who has to step into the roadway to get around these camps. One opponent to the settlement testified that it attacks one group of disabled people to accommodate another group of disabled people who live on the street. This settlement does nothing for them. Addressing Portlands Humanitarian Crisis The settlement comes as the Portland mayor is considering an outright ban on camping on Portland sidewalks, as well as a ban on camping on other public spaces between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Currently there are hundreds of unsanctioned camps spread out across virtually every neighborhood of our city, over a massive 146-square-mile area, Wheeler wrote on a city website dedicated to the homeless issue. In Multnomah County, where Portland is located, more than 5,200 people were homeless in 2022, according to federal point-in-time count data. That represents a 30 percent increase compared with 2019. Wheeler called it the humanitarian crisis of our lifetime. In November, the City Council voted to gradually ban street camping and create at least six large, designated campsites where homeless people will be allowed to camp. It has already set aside $27 million for these new shelter sites and said it hopes the state and county will pitch in. Portland residents overwhelmingly support efforts to address the citys homelessness crisis. In a new poll by the nonprofit People for Portland, more than 70 percent of the 500 likely voters surveyed said they support the daytime camping ban proposal, and 83 percent think the rights of disabled residents should come before the rights of the homeless to camp on sidewalks. When asked how those surveyed would describe homelessness in the Portland area, 75 percent said it was a disaster. Only 6 percent said the issue has turned a corner. The class action lawsuit will force the city to take specific and measurable steps to address the issue over the next five years. Coming to Terms The Settlement Agreement, posted on the city website, will require the city to maintain and fund an Impact Reduction Program to address campsite removal at a cost of $20 million over the five-year term. The goal of the program is to ensure all city sidewalks should remain free and clear of any obstruction from tents, personal property, and debris. Under the tentative settlement, the city must prioritize removing tents that block sidewalks and clear at least 500 encampments that block sidewalks every year for the next five years. If there are fewer than 500 such campsites removed in a given year, the city will be found to be in compliance if it clears all that are blocking sidewalks. The city must also maintain an online and phone-based reporting system where people can report sidewalks that are being blocked. It will then expedite removal of campsites in those areas, with priority given to requests for accommodations by persons with disabilities. To publicly demonstrate compliance, the city must create a publicly accessible database of reported campsites and actions taken in response. No camping signs must be posted in areas where sidewalks are frequently used for camping. The city estimates the signage program will cost $400,000 over the life of the agreement. The city has estimated that it will require an additional half or full-time employee to manage ADA compliance at a cost of $550,000 over five years. Finally, the city must pay $5,000 to each of the 10 Plaintiffs as well as pay their attorneys fees and costs. The city will also extend a ban on city employees and contractors handing out tents and tarps, with a few exceptions, but it will not admit wrongdoing or liability. The settlement still requires approval from the U.S. District Court in Portland. Meanwhile, the City Council is reconsidering its relationship with JOHS, which distributed the tents and tarps but is not governed by this agreement. Coast Guard Suspends Search for 4 Missing After Alaska Charter Boat Found Partially Submerged JUNEAU, AlaskaThe U.S. Coast Guard has suspended its search for four people missing after the fishing charter boat they were on was found partially submerged near the southeast Alaska community of Sitka. A fifth person was found dead Sunday. The search, which spanned more than 20 hours and covered about 825 square miles was suspended Monday night, the Coast Guard said. Kingfisher Charters on Sunday evening reported that a 30-foot aluminum charter vessel with five people aboard was overdue, the Coast Guard said in a statement. The boat was last seen earlier that day near Sitka. The Coast Guard found the boat partially submerged off an island about 10 miles west of Sitka on Sunday evening. It recovered the body of a man who was found in the water about 100 yards from the boat, Petty Officer Ian Gray said. Gray said the region was experiencing 6-foot to 11-foot seas on Sunday. There was no immediate significant damage to the hull of the vessel to indicate that it ran aground or anything like that, Gray said Tuesday. Anyone with information about the incident has been asked to contact the Coast Guard. The cause of the incident remains under investigation. Despite our best efforts and those of several partner agencies, we were not able to find the four remaining individuals, Capt. Darwin Jensen, whose area of responsibility with the Coast Guard includes southeast Alaska, said in a statement. Suspending a search is never an easy decision. We extend our deepest sympathy to the loved ones during this difficult time. Cory Morgan: Smiths Election Win Cements Her Incredible Comeback; Expect Substantive Political Change Commentary If anybody had approached me two years ago and said Danielle Smith would be elected as Albertas premier in 2023, I would have told them to get their head examined. When Smith announced to a media panel I was part of at a United Conservative Party conference in April 2022 she would consider running for the leadership of the party if the position opened up, I was stunned that she was considering returning to the political arena. I wrote it off as one of the off-the-cuff types of statements Smith is prone to making. Often to her own detriment. When Smith formally entered the UCP leadership in July 2022, it was assumed she was a long-shot candidate trying to regain some political profile. Few believed she could win the race. When every other contender for the leadership turned their guns against Smith, it became apparent she was the front-runner. By the time Smith won the leadership and became the premier of Alberta in the fall of 2022, few were surprised. With the UCP already trailing the Alberta NDP in the polls while an election loomed in 2023, the common consensus among the chattering classes was that Smith would lead the UCP to a stunning defeat. How could she possibly overcome her own controversial history and statements? As the political establishment among legacy media outlets, unions, and academia became increasingly hysteric with attacks against Smith, it became clear she was on a path to winning the 2023 Alberta general election. Despite having few allies in the public eye and enduring one of the harshest, personally focused attack campaigns Alberta has ever seen, Smith emerged victorious with a majority government, albeit a reduced one. Whatever one may think of Danielle Smith, she is not a person to be dismissed or underestimated. Smith can be a polarizing and difficult personality to deal with. Her political history began when she was elected to serve as an Alberta school board trustee in 1998. That board was so dysfunctional, the provincial education minister was forced to intervene and dissolve it in 1999. While Smith alone cant be credited for the mess on the board, her willful ways surely contributed to the challenges. Smith returned to electoral politics by taking the leadership of the small, provincial Wildrose Party in 2009. The party grew under her leadership to form the official opposition in 2012. After two tumultuous years in the official opposition, Smith and seven of her MLAs crossed the floor to the Progressive Conservative government in 2014. That move proved to be a political disaster. Smith lost her own nomination for the party and the NDP formed the government in Alberta for the first time ever in 2015. Smiths treachery against her own party was often credited for the NDP win. Smith then vanished from public view for a time and was a political pariah. She resurfaced as a talk show host on a Calgary radio show where she worked until 2021. Her departure from the radio show wasnt on amicable terms and it was evident she crossed swords with management regularly. She was a popular host though, and with years on the air, she had won back the hearts and minds of many conservative supporters who had been aghast at her floor-crossing in 2014. That created a new base of support that lifted her eventually to the premiers chair in Alberta. Smiths greatest strength is also her greatest weakness. She likes to speak her mind and share idea-balloons. While people appreciate her willingness to examine new ideas, some of her vocal speculations were controversial at times and were later politically used against her. She learned quickly that she cant be so unconstrained in her speech as premier as she was when in media. Smith can be ideological and impulsive. These are difficult traits to manage in a political role, but they are also endearing for those who would like to see political changes made. Smith isnt afraid to think outside the box and she isnt afraid to put new policies into action. This of course scares the tar out of people enjoying and benefiting from the status quo. Now with a mandate from the Alberta electorate, Smith can pursue substantive political change. She has hinted at challenging the sacred cow of public health care, pursuing autonomy from Ottawa through provincial policing and pension plans, and entrenching personal rights against coercion for things like vaccinations. Every move Premier Smith makes will be greeted with vigorous opposition, while pundits will no doubt say she is pursuing the impossible. Having made such a quick return from political oblivion to the top job in Alberta, nothing Smith sets her sights upon now should be considered impossible to achieve. Albertas wild ride is just beginning. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Commentary In Australia, the federal government seeks to amend the Constitution to enshrine an Indigenous Voice to Parliamenta vague, race-based advisory body that would make representations to Australian parliamentarians in the House of Representatives and the Senate. The Voice is the first hurdle towards fully implementing the Uluru Statement from the Heart, a radical and racially-motivated declaration that demands, among other things, a percentage of the gross domestic product be paid annually to Aboriginal Australians. I am staunchly opposed to the implementation of this Uluru Statement and look forward to contributing to the debate ahead of The Voice referendum scheduled to occur before the years end. My opposition is at odds with, as far as I can tell, every arts institution in Australia. In my own field of music, I cannot think of one notable art music ensemble, orchestra or organisation that publicly shares my hesitance to constitutionally reaffirm race as a concept. Quite the opposite: nearly all Australian artists of an established public profile, arts executives, and bureaucrats support The Voice. The right to free opinion must always be voraciously defended, but if you form the view as I do that there is no empirical or logical justification that conclusively suggests The Voice to be advantageous or even viable, you might reasonably ask why artists are so keen to champion it. A visitor attends the opening of French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Arts and Goya: Drawings from the Prado Museum at NGV International in Melbourne, Australia, on June 25, 2021. (Graham Denholm/Getty Images for NGV) Earlier this year, the federal government released its National Cultural Plan, which it calls Revive: a place for every story, a story for every place. The plan is summarised as a five-point plan; each ranked in order of importance: First Nations First: Recognising and respecting the crucial place of First Nations stories at the centre of Australias arts and culture. A Place for Every Story: Reflecting the breadth of our stories and the contribution of all Australians as the creators of Culture. Centrality of the Artist: Supporting the Artist as a Worker and celebrating artists as Creators. Strong Cultural Infrastructure: Providing support across the spectrum of institutions which sustain our arts, culture and heritage. Engaging the Audience: Making sure our stories connect with people at home and abroad. Indeed, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has admitted that First Nations culture is at the heart of Revive. Holding Style Above Craft Should Be Considered an Artistic Crime It alarms me that the prime minister considers this Indigenous stylea term we might use to denote the aesthetic of our previously-discussed craftmore important than the cultural infrastructure required to communicate that style. Governments should provide a stage to enable cultural success, but never a script. If governments prioritise style before craft, they effectively prescribe to their nations which stories are acceptable and which are undesirable. Some of the worst dictators in history, Adolf Hitler, Joseph Stalin, and Mao Zedong, were known adherents of this totalitarian approach to art. Moreover, an analysis of Revives $286 million (US$186 million) budget reveals that an incredible $227.2 million is being spent on policies related in full or part to Aboriginal Australians. In other words, 79.4 percent of Australias national cultural plan is, at the very least, thematically dedicated to about 3.8 percent of Australias population. A general view of the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra, Australia, on April 12, 2023. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch) And all this in the year of The Voice referendum, too. Could it simply be a coincidence, or are the arts being taken advantage of to further a specific political agenda? I strongly suspect the latter. That being the case, no wonder artists and arts institutions are queuing up to support the Voice: thats where the money is for a starved, dependent industry. Australian creatives are being held to ransom. It seems that if we want to maximise our chances of benefiting from state funding, then our art must promote the radical ideologies that are currently devouring the Western world. I patently reject these terms. An artists first duty must be to himself. As a composer, I write music that foremost interests me, regardless of whether it is popular or politically vogue. In this, I am not selfish. I am vitally authentic. I wonder how artists and arts institutions might reassert their own authenticity and liberate themselves from traversing the ideological quagmire. Of pivotal importance for the individual creative, I think, is the embrace of an entrepreneurial spirit. The notion that authentic art is, in fact, intellectual property to be independently championed seems to me certainly worth exploring. But, above all, artists who in their heart object to the ideological constraints being imposed upon them must have the courage to do so publicly. For if we go on repressing our own voices, we continue to commit the greatest crime an artist possibly can. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Cut Housing Costs in California by Repealing Prop. 39 From 2000 Commentary One of the defects in Californias political system is how not just the public-employee unions, but the super-wealthy can manipulation the system. They use democracy to short-circuit democracy. A good example is billionaire Reed Hastings, chairman of the board at Netflix. He has long been involved in Californias political process, especially on education. Nothing wrong with that. Hes a citizen. But in 2000, he used his immense wealth to put Proposition 39 on the ballot to increase school construction funding. It did not increase taxes on the incomes of billionaires. Instead, it made it easier to pass local school construction bonds, paid for by tax increases on property, by dropping the passage supermajority from two-thirds to 55 percent. That meant higher costs for housing, contributing to the subsequent housing and homelessness crises. CityFinance.com ran an analysis after last Novembers election. It found: Among the school measures were 100 bond measures seeking a total of $22.5 billion in school facility improvement funding. There were 9 measures to increase or extend (renew) school parcel taxes. $20.5 billion was approved, including $5.3 billion for Los Angeles Community College District, $3.2 billion for San Diego Unified School District, and $1.7 billion for Long Beach Unified School District. A school is under construction in the Los Angeles-area city of Maywood, Calif., on May 17, 2006. (David McNew/Getty Images) Of those 100 school bonds, 99 used the 55 percent passage threshold; only one used the old two-thirds threshold. Of the 99 school bonds with the lower requirement, 71 passed and 28 failed; thus, a 72 percent passage rate. That was less than the 80 percent passage rate for such bonds since 2001. The analysis surmised, The passage rates this election may reflect somewhat of a darker mood among the electorate. The lone bond requiring the two-thirds vote, for Plumas Lake Elementary School District, got only 56 percent, thus failing. However, if the pre-Prop. 29 rule still was in effect, requiring two-thirds votes for all 100 bond measures, only 19 would have passedjust 19 percent. Los Angeles property owners have been hit especially hard. Measure LA, the 2022 Community College bond for $5.3 billion, levies $25 per $100,000 of assessed valuation. According to Zillow.com, the average price of a home there is now $901,961. So that comes to $225 per year. But thats not all. In 2020, voters passed Measure RR, a $7 billion bond for the Los Angeles Unified School District, paid by levying a 2.174-cent tax per $100 of assessed property value. For an average home price of $901,961, that comes to $196.10 a year. And in 2016, voters passed Measure CC, $3.3 billion in bonds for the Los Angeles Community College District. It levied $15 per $100,000 of assessed value. For a home valued at $901,961 today, that comes to $135.29 a year. Just adding up the three cited bonds brings us to: $556.64 a year. Just to live in your dinky house in crime-and-homeless-ridden Los Angeles, while paying a huge mortgage. The anti-CC wording in the voter pamphlet warned: In the last 15 years, almost $6 billion in bonds have been approved for the Los Angeles Community College District. Prop A authorized $1.245 billion, in 2001. Prop AA authorized $980 million in 2003. Measure J authorized $3.5 billion in 2008. Students walk to summer semester classes at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, Calif., on June 29, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times) Bonds are like government credit cards. They are sold to Wall Street investors and paid back over 30 years, with interest. If Measure CC passes, your property taxes will go up to pay the bill. In all three prior measures, we were promised oversight. But in 2011, an expose by the Los Angeles Times and an audit by the State Controller found tens of millions in wasteful spending and shoddy construction with the bond money. They uncovered nepotism in contract awards and hiring, massive mismanagement, incomplete records, and poor to nonexistent oversight. Is Two-Thirds Vote Democracy? The argument against the two-thirds rule is that it isnt democracywhich is 50 percent-plus-one. But neither is 55 percent democracy. And neither is billionaires funding ballot measures that tax the little guy in his modest home he barely can afford. And neither is living in what now is a one-party state. Moreover, it was well understood by Americas Founding Fathers that raw democracy must be tempered by such safeguards as the U.S. Senate, with representation based on states, not population; thus Wyoming gets the same two senators as giant California. And by the Electoral College, which as we saw in 2000 and 2016 doesnt always go with the overall majority of voters. And by the unelected U.S. Supreme Court. Why More? As to the schools, in my analysis of Gov. Gavin Newsoms May Revision to his budget proposal for fiscal year 2023-24, K-12 schools funding still would amount to a hefty $23,483 per pupil. Thats $587,075 for a classroom of 25 students. What more do they need? Certainly not more from homeowners; or from apartment owners who just pass on the high property taxes to renters. Not to mention the high cost is paying for low performance, with California students perennially scoring what even the liberal New York Times called dismally low math and reading scores. It would take another initiative to repeal Prop. 39, but the effort could be sold as a way to reduce housing costs and homelessness. If Reed Hastings wants to fund more pet initiatives, let him do so from his own billions. John Seilers email: writejohnseiler@gmail.com Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Debate Over Public Safety in San Clemente Continues After Marines Beaten Commentary During the Memorial Day weekend, on the San Clemente Pier, a large group of teenagers attacked and beat two non-uniformed United States Marines who simply requested that the crowd discontinue igniting fireworks. The irony of beating enlisted soldiers on this May weekend is not lost on the residents of Orange County. A video of the melee has gone viral and is an embarrassment to the 3 million Orange Countians who have been impugned by this deplorable act. Its early, but something tells me that some form of calamity was expected. San Clemente residents have been asking for more public safety, and on April 18, the City Council formed the Private Security Subcommittee. The goal was to provide the full body of the City Council information about the use of private security to enhance the existing public safety efforts. This was pursued as the City Council had authorized the use of a private security firm for up to three months and up to $100,000 per month on a limited term basis while longer-term solutions are analyzed. Two weeks ago, on May 16, the San Clemente City Council voted on Agenda Item 10D, the Private Security Subcommittee Report, that recommended Allied Universal Services (AUS) as the firm to provide private security for the beach and commercial areas of the community. The professionally drafted recommendation was declined by the City Council. Workers fix the track for the Amtrak coastal railway line in San Clemente, Calif., on April 13, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times) San Clemente has had plenty of activity for a small coastal town. Amtrak train service has been interrupted on a number of occasions due to beach erosion, famous Casa Romantica lost a portion of the cliff that it sits on, and a city council member recently resigned. Most disturbing was the death of a homeless man, Kurt Reinhold, by an Orange County Deputy Sheriff. There were demonstrations at a sensitive time in history, as Reinhold was black. And his family successfully sued and received a judgment of $7.5 million. This is a cost all of Orange Countys residents must bear. Those serving in first responder positions have entered into an honorable profession. But public safety is not inexpensive. Liability exposure is just one factor. But the high cost of one Orange County Deputy Sheriff is $305,347 per year for salary, benefit pension plan (known as 3% at 50), medical insurance, and other employee benefits. Add to this another $57,512 per year per deputy for equipment and vehicle costs. Adding four deputies to the contract with the Orange County Sheriffs Department would mean a minimum cost of $1,451,436 per year. Retaining four officers with Allied Universal Services would only cost $696,948 for one year ($58,079 per month). And this included uniforms, vehicles, equipment, and supervision. Doing the math, it costs $30,238.25 per month for a public sector deputy, but only $14,519.75 per month for a private security officer. San Clemente could hire eight private security officers for the cost of four deputy sheriffs. I want to commend the city for considering the outsourcing to enhance the existing public safety efforts in the city. I could have saved the members of the subcommittee a lot of time and effort. If they had asked me, I would have told them that it just wasnt going to happen. Private security firms are the correct answer to assisting police and sheriffs in keeping our cities safer in a less costly fashion. But private security firms have no political clout. An Orange County Sheriffs Department vehicle is parked at the Saddleback Station in Lake Forest, Calif., on Sept. 14, 2020. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times) Public safety has police officer and firefighter associations, powerful public employee unions, that will vehemently protect their turf. There is no way that the Sheriffs union, the Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs, will allow a city to supplement the Sheriffs services. All it takes is one phone call to a city council member by a union representative. Would you like to hire four more deputies? Or would you like us to fund your opponent in your re-election efforts? Spending another three-quarters of a million dollars of tax money is a lot easier than being pummeled with nasty and obfuscatory mail pieces from the public safety unions with very deep pockets. You will never know that this may have been the real reason for the San Clemente City Council to drop a proposal to retain unarmed security officers to respond to the homeless crisis on its beaches as a way of relieving its contract police force, the Orange County Sheriffs Department, of the mundane tasks of providing social services to those in need. With the left screaming for the defunding of the police, the San Clemente City Councils dropping a righteous and appropriate recommendation from its Private Security Subcommittee will be seen as a major missed opportunity. It would have been a more humane solution to address the homeless on a cost-effective basis. And it would also make Orange Countians feel more comfortable about visiting this beautiful coastal city and its amazing pier. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The Turkic Investment Fund will become the most effective factor in the integration of Turkic-speaking countries, political analyst Aydin Guliyev told Trend. Guliyev noted that the decision to create such a fund was made at the summit in Kyrgyzstan a few months ago. "The adoption of such a decision is a historically significant event that opens up great prospects for the integration of the Turkic states, especially in the economic sphere. The member countries of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) are in the process of close integration with each other, which is most clearly manifested, first of all, in the trade and economic sector," he said. According to the analyst, the OTS serves the purpose of strengthening both the political ties of the Turkic-speaking countries and closer unification and coordination of their investment opportunities in the trade and economic sector. Guliyev noted that the creation of the fund is becoming even more necessary due to other factors, including the growth of investment demand in the context of the liberation of Azerbaijani lands from Armenian occupation, as well as meeting the needs after the devastating earthquake in Turkiye. "Of course, the creation of the fund will benefit not only in this regard, but also improve economic opportunities and further strengthen the economies of Turkiye, Azerbaijan, and the Turkic-speaking countries of Central Asia," he added. Debt Ceiling Bill Cleared for House Vote, Passage Likely House Speaker Kevin McCarthy holds the gavel after he was elected on the 15th ballot at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on Jan. 7, 2023. (Olivier Douliery/AFP via Getty Images) The Fiscal Responsibility Act cleared its last procedural hurdle, paving the way for an up-or-down vote on the measure by the full House. The House approved a rule to limit debate on the bill and bar any amendments to the bill in a bipartisan vote of 241 to 187. The bill represents a compromise agreed to by President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) to suspend the nations debt ceiling through Jan. 1, 2025, while cutting non-defense discretionary spending slightly in 2024 and increasing it by 1 percent in 2025. The bill also contains permitting reforms for oil and gas drilling, changes to work requirements for some social welfare programs, and clawbacks of $20 billion in IRS funding and $30 billion in unspent COVID-19 relief funds. In the absence of congressional action to allow additional borrowing, the United States would lack the ready cash to pay all of its bills on June 5, according to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. Eventual passage of the bill is likely as the leadership teams for both parties in the House have endorsed it and members on both sides of the aisle have pledged their support. Bipartisan Support McCarthy presented the bill as a win for Republicans. I believe this is an agreement in principle thats worthy of the American people, McCarthy told reporters on May 29. It has historic reductions in spending, consequential reforms that will lift people out of poverty into the workforce, and reign in government overreach. Im confident well pass the bill, McCarthy told reporters on May 31. Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) pledged unreserved support for the bill despite concerns about some of its content. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) talks to reporters in the U.S. Capitol on Feb. 9, 2023. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) I made it clear that Im going to support the legislation that is on the floor today, and I have supported it without hesitation, reservation, or trepidation, Jeffries said at a morning press conference. Not because its perfect. But in a divided government, we cannot allow the perfect to be the enemy of the good. Some members of the House Freedom Caucus have vocally opposed the legislation because it did not adhere to the stricter provisions of the original bill, the Limit, Save, Grow Act. They accused McCarthy of squandering the negotiating power gained by passing that bill in April. Caucus Chair Scott Perry (R-Pa.) said the deal traded at least $4 trillion in debt for nothing, from the strongest position a Republican has had generally, and certainly in our elected lifetime. This deal fails, fails completely, Perry said. As of the morning of May 31, about 30 of the 222 House Republicans opposed the bill. Some Democrats voiced opposition to the bill because it makes changes to social welfare programs that would cause some people to lose benefits. Passage Likely However, support for the measure gained momentum during the day on May 31. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), a member of the Freedom Caucus, announced her support on Twitter at midday. The consensus on the Hill is that its going to pass, Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) told NTD, sister media to The Epoch Times before the rules vote, though he planned to vote against it. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich expects the bill to pass despite opposition from the far-right and far-left. I sat down over a week ago with Congressman Tom Emmer, who is the [Republican] whip, Gingrich told The Epoch Times. I was very, very impressed. They talk with every single member virtually every day, and I think theyve got a pretty good sense of it. My guess is theyll get 140 to 150 Republicans, maybe slightly more than that, because theres a momentum that builds, Gingrich said. I think at the end of the day, they will have the votes to pass it, Harold Furchtgott-Roth of the Hudson Institute told The Epoch Times. But I would call it under duress. They have a gun pointed at their head, which is that you default or you vote for a very imperfect bill. And thats the Hobsons choice that the members are facing. The House is scheduled to vote on the Fiscal Responsibility Act at 8:30 p.m. on May 31. Drones Attack Russian Oil Refineries Near Major Oil Port Novorossiisk A map shows the location of Afipsky, where a drone attacked the oil refinery in Russia's Krasnodar region, on May 31, 2023. (Google Maps) MOSCOWDrones attacked two oil refineries just 4050 miles (6580 km) east of Russias biggest oil export terminals on Wednesday, sparking a fire at one and causing no damage to the other, according to Russian officials. Drone attacks deep inside Russia have intensified in recent weeks with strikes on Moscow and oil pipelines. At around 0100 GMT a drone struck the Afipsky oil refinery in Russias Krasnodar region, causing a fire which was later extinguished, Governor Veniamin Kondratyev said. The Afipsky refinery lies 50 miles east of the Black Sea port of Novorossiisk, one of Russias most important oil export gateways. The plant can process around 6 million tonnes (44 million barrels) of oil each year. Novorossiisk, together with the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal, bring about 1.5 percent of global oil to market. Last year, CPC exported via the South Ozereyevka terminal 58.7 million tonnes of oil, mainly from Kazakhstan, while the terminal of Sheskharis at Novorossiisk handled about 30 million tonnes of oil. Another drone crashed into the Ilsky refinery, which lies around 40 miles east of Novorossiisk, Russian state-owned news agency RIA reported, citing local officials. According to the refinerys web site, its five processing units have the combined capacity of 3 million tonnes per year. There was no immediate information on who launched the drones but Russia has accused Ukraine of increased attacks on targets inside the country, including on Moscow on Tuesday. Ukraine almost never publicly claims responsibility for attacks inside Russia or on Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine. Refineries across Russia have been frequently attacked by drones following the start of the conflict in February 2022. Expect Chaos: Climate Expert Forecasts Extreme Weather as West Coast Prepares for El Nino Climate experts are warning of possible extreme weather as an El Nino weather pattern arrives this summer along the west coast. This years El Nino looks to be a strong one, according to climate expert Dr. Jennifer Francis, a senior scientist at the Woods Hole Climate Research Center in Massachusetts. Expect Chaos, Francis said on ClimateGenn, a podcast that focuses on climate issues, May 25. Expect unusual events, expect extreme events. Were going to see heat waves. Were going to see floods. Were going to see some strong hurricanesrapidly intensifying hurricanes. Even though El Nino typically creates fewer hurricanes in the North Atlantic, that probably wont happen this year because the Atlantic Ocean is undergoing an ocean heat wave, Francis added. The unusually warm waters are expected to fuel hurricanes in that region. The National Weather Service predicts the climate pattern, marked by warm water in the Pacific Ocean, to return to California and the Pacific Northwest by summertime. A strong El Nino combined with warmer-than-usual water in the North Pacific and Atlantic oceans, is making it harder to forecast the weather events, Francis said. The Arctic is also warming about four times faster than the globe. This combination of factors is really nothing that weve seen before, so its a real challenge to make any kind of prediction, she said. Average global temperatures tend to spike during El Nino years, which is concerning, according to Francis. In California, the pattern usually affects the southern region more than the central or northern areas, according to Dalton Behringer, a National Weather Service meteorologist in Monterey, California. The actual conditions themselves that define El Nino [will arrive] mid-to-late summer, Behringer told The Epoch Times. The Golden State has experienced some weather extremes in the past year as record rainfall and snow lifted the state out of a dry spell during a two-year La Nina, a weather pattern that can cause drier-than-average years. El Nino years are usually wetter-than-average, but many conditions can counteract the pattern or enhance it, depending on what weather patterns develop locally, according to Behringer. The National Weather Services Climate Prediction Center issued an El Nino Watch alert May 11, advising of the transition to the new weather pattern in the Northern Hemisphere. Warmer ocean waters expanded westward in April in the Pacific Ocean, prompting the alert. Much of California has seen overcast skies for the past week, but that could change by the weekend. At the beach in Monterey and Santa Cruz, the sun should make an appearance as warmer temperatures return, according to the local National Weather Service office. Well see clearer skies and temperatures in the 70s to low 80s in some places, Behringer said. A low-pressure system that has blanketed the area with dark clouds, should start moving inland as a high-pressure ridge arrives, he added. Los Angeles County is also stuck in a May gray, June gloom pattern. Its giving us all these clouds with some clearing in the afternoon, National Weather Service Meteorologist Richard Thompson told The Epoch Times. Its very typical for this time of year. By Sunday, the skies could clear, he said. Federal Labour Board Orders Hearing for Parks Canada Employee Denied Exemption From COVID Shot A syringe is prepared with COVID-19 vaccine at a vaccination clinic in Montreal, on March 15, 2021. (Paul Chiasson/The Canadian Press) A federal labour board has agreed to hear the case of a Parks Canada employee denied a religious exemption from the COVID-19 vaccine, after the government argued she had missed deadlines for filing a grievance through the union. Jennifer Squires, who worked as a senior financial services adviser, applied to the Federal Public Sector Labour Relations and Employment Board for a time extension on a grievance against her employer, Parks Canada, who placed her on administrative leave without pay for not complying with a policy on mandatory COVID vaccination. In a decision released on April 20, and reported by Blacklocks Reporter on May 29, adjudicator Marie-Claude Perrault ruled the grievance is neither trivial nor vexatious. The Public Service Alliance of Canada, the union representing Squires, took the matter to the labour board after Parks Canada summarily dismissed the employees request without a hearing. Parks Canada objected to Squiress application on the grounds that the federal board had no jurisdiction to hear the matter, and that the grievance missed timelines under the union collective agreement. The government agency also argued that Squiress being placed on unpaid leave was an administrative, not disciplinary, decision. On Nov. 8, 2021, Parks Canada employees were told they had to provide proof of COVID vaccination, unless they applied for accommodation based on medical, religious, or other human rights grounds. Squires requested a religious exemption on Jan. 28, 2022, according to the labour board decision, which was denied. Squires, with the assistance of her union, filed a grievance and Parks Canada denied it, saying it was untimely. The adjudicator rejected that argument, noting that Squires diligently tried to communicate with her employer and promptly filed a grievance with the help of her union. The injustice to the applicant, should her grievances not be heard, is significant. The remedies she seeks relate to a grave injustice against her, said Perrault. The labour board found that there was a compelling reason for the delay, the delay was short, and that Squiress grievance should be placed on the hearing schedule in due course. Squires is just one of many Canadian employees that were suspended or even fired for not complying with a wave of mandatory COVID policies that blanketed the country in 2021 and 2022. In a Treasury Board Inquiry of Ministry in 2022, the government said that 2,042 employees applied for a religious exemption. They were required to submit a notarized affidavit, but of those who followed the process, only 26 percent, roughly 540, were approved. The government said managers were not solely making the decisions. They were supported by experienced human resources professionals who receive policy guidance, said the inquiry. While an internal Oct. 6, 2021, Treasury Board memo advised that religious exemptions should be granted to employees, regardless of their church, mosque, temple, or synagogues specific tenets, according to Blacklocks Reporter, the overwhelming majority of requests for exemptions were denied. The memo, Managers Toolkit for the Implementation of the Policy on COVID-19 Vaccination for the Core Public Administration Including the RCMP, said managers must be satisfied the employee holds a sincere religious belief that prevents them from being fully vaccinated. A 2004 precedent-setting Supreme Court ruling on religious freedom said: The state is in no position to be, nor should it become, the arbiter of religious dogma. Sincerity of belief simply implies an honesty of belief and the Courts role is to ensure a presently asserted belief is in good faith, neither fictitious nor capricious, said the ruling. Whether an individuals convictions were consistent was irrelevant, the decision said. Former Mount Hope Police Chief Paul Rickard Runs for Town Supervisor Paul Rickard at Finding Home Farms in Middletown, N.Y., on May 25, 2023. (Cara Ding/The Epoch Times) After serving a decade as the police chief of Mount Hope, Paul Rickard said he wants to apply his leadership skills to the town government to benefit his community. He is challenging incumbent supervisor Matthew Howell in the June 27 Republican primary. Rickard said he would be accessible to town residents by hosting regular office hours, enhancing government transparency through ethics reform, and keeping the tax levy stable while using his leadership skills in all facets of town operation. My whole [campaign] is about leadership, he told The Epoch Times. This town needs leadership, and we need to, at the same time, keep our sense of community and familyit is a small town. He secured endorsements from county Legislature Majority Leader Tom Faggione, county legislator Janet Sutherland, and former county legislator Melissa Bonacic. Paul Rickard at Finding Home Farms in Middletown, N.Y., on May 25, 2023. (Cara Ding/The Epoch Times) Rickards ancestors settled down in the Town of Mount Hope in the early 1960s, and several of his family members worked in public service professions such as policing and education. Being the oldest child, he learned to take care of six younger siblings at an early age. I was thrust into being a leaderthats a leadership position that you just had to accept, he said. He studied political science at Orange County Community College and became a police officer at Middletown Police Department in the 1980s. Leadership Experience Over his 20 years at the department, he rose through the ranks to sergeant, lieutenant, and bureau commander of operations. In 2010, he became Mount Hope police chief. He set out over the next decade to make the department a more professional operation, from hiring, training, and policy to infrastructure and technology. A Town of Mount Hope police car outside the police department in Otisville, N.Y., on March 7, 2023. Of all his efforts, he said hes most proud of his work in building community relationships. The police are the community, and the community are the policeSir Robert Peel said that when he created modern police in England, Rickard said. I think thats true and really what I strive to do. He served as the president of the Orange County Police Chiefs Association for two years. The post allowed him to have his finger on the pulse of state- and county-level initiatives and match them with the needs of the Mount Hope police department, he said. Mount Hope Police Chief Paul Rickard in his office in Otisville, N.Y., on Feb. 24, 2023. (Cara Ding/The Epoch Times) He also attended the FBI National Academy, a prestigious leadership program for police chiefs, sheriffs, and mid-level law enforcement managers nationwide. Early this year, Rickard retired from policing and became the director of Hope Not Handcuffs, a regional organization that works with law enforcement agencies in the Hudson Valley to connect people suffering from addictions with help. Everything I do, I lead, Rickard said. I think a lot of people in the community have faith in me because they know my family, and they know my leadership. Campaign Platform Running for supervisor, Rickard said his top priority is to be accessible to town residents by having regular office hours at the town hall. His job at Hope Not Handcuffs has no fixed office hours, allowing him to arrange his schedule, he said. He also wants to be active in county- and regional-level government organizations such as the Orange County Association of Towns, Villages, and Cities. You cant live in a bubble, and you have to network with everyone, he said, adding that outreach will open doors to more resources for the town. A digital sign reminding residents of the Oct. 18 Minisink Valley School District public library vote is seen outside the Mount Hope Town Hall, in N.Y., on Oct. 2, 2022. (Cara Ding/The Epoch Times) Ethics reform is another priority of his, including updating the towns decades-old code of ethics. Rickard said town elected officials and appointed members on the planning board should fill out financial disclosure forms and file them with the clerks office every year; he also plans to create an ethics board whose members can review related paperwork. I think ethics is important in government, and we need to be open and transparent, he said. If there is a conflict of interest, we should have a set of mechanisms [to deal with it]. As to development, Rickard said he likes the small-town feel that Mount Hope offers and wants to keep it that way. I support single-family zoning, and I think there is a charm to not having a traffic light in town. I think that brings people into our community because it is beautiful, he said. Mount Hope Town Park in Otisville, N.Y., on May 28, 2023. (Cara Ding/The Epoch Times) He also supports preserving agricultural lands in town. I think it would be a mistake to get rid of a farm to build a housing development. I think we need to encourage our agricultural heritage here, he said. In terms of commercial growth, he said he would love to see more new businesses, but they must match the character of Mount Hope. If [a company] wants to open a four-room office here and pay taxes, I would be all for it. But do we want a big factory? No. Do we want a big warehouse? No. Its got to fit in with the community, he said. Early voting is available between June 17 and June 25 at two locations in Orange County: the Newburgh Activity Center in the City of Newburgh and the Caroline Building in the Town of Goshen. I want my mom and dad to love me, and I want them to love each other.Jocie, aged 7. That sentence introduces visitors to the website of the organization, Them Before Us (TBU). Jocies statement illustrates the universal human longing to be known and loved by the two people responsible for ones existence, the website reads. Those longings should inform how we talk about marriage and family because children have the most at stake in these conversations. Yet Jocies voice, and the voices of millions like her, are rarely heard. As Them Before Us pointed out, You will seldom hear Jocies perspective in discussions on marriage or family. Adults dominate these conversations because they hold all of the power. For decades now, children have been the near-invisible victims of the sexual revolution. No-fault divorce, fatherless households, considerations about adoption, reproductive technologies, cohabitation, and more have all played to adult desires but have left children with their wants and needs out of the conversation. The consequence? These winds of cultural change have damaged untold numbers of innocent kids. The fatherless epidemic in America provides just one example of what happens to children when natural family ties are broken. This statistical breakdown was compiled by The Fatherless Generation Foundation and is cited by Them Before Us: 90 percent of homeless and runaway youths are fatherless and at risk of being victimized by sex trafficking. 70 to 85 percent of prison inmates grew up without a father. 63 percent of teenagers who commit suicide have absent fathers. 71 percent of pregnant teenagers come from fatherless homes. 71 percent of high school dropouts come from fatherless homes. By compiling and making known such data; by collecting and sharing the stories of children, many of them now grown to adulthood, who suffered the consequences of decisions outside of their control; and by taking their advocacy for childrens rights to the government and the legal system, Them Before Us seeks to give these children a voice among adults, awaken us to their struggles and cries for help, and make all of us more aware of their rights and needs. Katy Faust during a speaking engagement in South Korea. (Courtesy of Katy Faust) Life Provided the Tools I can look at my life right now and see how my work at the adoption agency and in youth ministry, my moms situation, and my parents divorce all worked together for the good, said Katy Faust, founder and director of Them Before Us. Faust grew up in Portland, Oregon, where she attended public school. She was 10 when her parents divorced. Her father later remarried, while her mother has lived in a long-term relationship with a woman. In interviews and online videos, Faust explains that despite the pain of that divorce, she was fortunate in that both her mother and father remained active and influential in her life. After graduating from college, where she studied Chinese, Faust worked for four years at a large Chinese adoption agency. Our mantra was We arent here to find a child for every adult. We are here to find a family for every child, she said of the agency. For the past 20 years, Faust has also served in youth ministry. I still work in youth ministry at our church. I love it, and its so important to offer youth formation. Culturally, its a war, and it just kills me that churches arent taking the education of teens more seriously, she said. Combine all of these experiences with a strong woman determined to speak up for childrens rights in such controversial and adult-dominated arenas as divorce, gay marriage, live-in boyfriends, and surrogate moms, and Them Before Us (TBU) is the result. The Mission On TBUs website is its vision statement: Them Before Us strives to put children before adults in every conversation about marriage and family. We seek to prioritize the rights of children in the culture and the courtroom, the personal and the public. Alongside it is this mission statement: Them Before Us is a global movement defending childrens right to their mother and father. In the introduction to her 2022 book, Them Before Us: Why We Need a Global Childrens Rights Movement, which she co-authored with her friend and TBU General Editor Stacy Manning, Faust lists the topics addressed within, which are identical to the issues TBU deals with every day. These focal points include the importance of families made up of mothers, fathers, and children; the rights of all children to be loved and raised by their biological parents; and what happens when the married-mother-father household is abandoned and divorce, same-sex parents, sperm/egg donation and surrogacy, and adoption impact children. On the website and in the book are studies about the effects of these circumstances on childrendata which is importantbut its the painful stories shared by adults about their childhood that move the heart. Voices in the First Person From the book come these thoughts of a young woman conceived via an anonymous donor: To my mother the whole point of my existence is to be her daughter, I feel like she doesnt really see me as a person, but more of a project she feels is completely under her control. Honestly, why would she not? She literally picked me out from a catalogue. She made sure that I would never have the option to meet my biological father. I hate myself for how much I regret being conceived this way. On the website, under Stories, we read Hannah T.s lengthy account of her parents divorce, her mothers turn to lesbianism, and years of marital court battles. Although Hannah escaped her bewildering and often harsh childhood to become financially secure with a family and a loving husband, her four siblings didnt fare so well. Two of her brothers are alcoholics, the third gambled away his savings and possibly participated in human trafficking, and her only sister died at age 30 from a fentanyl overdose. My parents were always super involved in their personal romantic relationships, but not so much [in] us, Hannah T. wrote. These are the voices of those silenced or ignored by our media and our culture, indictments of what takes place when parents and society leave children out of the equation of family and parenthood. The Touchstone of Reality While she strongly believes that a mother-and-father marriage is the ideal vehicle for raising children, Faust is also a pragmatist. Individual children matter more than an ideology. The staff and volunteers at TBU have offered counsel and help in any number of personal and legal situations, working with real people facing all sorts of dilemmas. When I spoke with Faust by phone, she was driving with her 15-year-old in the car. During our conversation, she teased her son a couple of times. Later, when they stopped and switched places, she was giving him instructions while we talkedPull around this truck, Only stay in the fast lane if youre going over 70which brought me some smiles. Here, I thought, is a down-to-earth mom, balancing her duties like so many others I know, with a heart for kids. Katy Faust in an undated photo. (Courtesy of Katy Faust) And if we pause to consider the matter, by fighting for the rights of children, Faust, her staff, and the volunteers of Them Before Us are also fighting for traditional marriage and ultimately for the cornerstone of our civilization: the family. For any readers wishing to become involved with Them Before Us, receive its newsletter, donate to its ongoing efforts, or share their own stories, the contact information for the group may be found on its website. Human metapneumovirus, or hMPV, has risen across the United States this winter and spring, according to recent data published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The percent of tests positive for hMPV increased 19.6 percent for antigen and 10.9 percent for PCR tests at the start of March, when the virus surged this year, the CDC data shows. Around the same time, the percentage of positive COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, stood at 7 percent and 2 percent, respectively. That peak itself is about 36 percent higher than what is normally seen before the pandemic, Dr. Bruce Lee, a professor of health policy and management at City University of New York School of Public Health, told ABC News this week. So, its an indirect way of getting a sense of the prevalence of hMPV infections out there. It does suggest that there is at least significant activity. The virus causes generally mild symptoms for most people and goes away on its own, without any need for additional treatment. The virus, discovered in 2001, can cause upper and lower respiratory disease, but it especially impacts older people, young children, and those with compromised immune systems, according to the CDC. It says that cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath are the primary symptoms. But it noted that clinical symptoms of HMPV infection may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia and are similar to other viruses that cause upper and lower respiratory infections. The estimated incubation period is 3 to 6 days, and the median duration of illness can vary depending upon severity but is similar to other respiratory infections caused by viruses. Dr. John Williams, a pediatrician at the University of Pittsburgh, said that hMPV isnt well-known and claimed it is the most important virus youve never heard of. And blood tests, he said, show that most children have had it before the age of 5. RSV, influenza, and hMPV are the three major viruses, he told CNN. Those are the big three in kids and adults, the most likely to put people in the hospital and cause severe disease, most likely to sweep through nursing homes and make older people really sick and even kill them. A study in the Lancet Global Health in 2020 estimated that some 14 million hMPV infections were reported among children under the age of 5 worldwide in 2018. Of that figure, more than 600,000 were hospitalized and 16,000 died. At least one report published this week included an interview with a University of Virginia Health doctor, Bill Petri, who said that people should wear masks to prevent the spread hMPV, similar to the often-discredited mitigation strategy that was promoted widely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lee also suggested to ABC News that the best way to really constructively move from the pandemic is to think about what are some of the precautions that we should be putting in place just in general to prevent the spread of these respiratory viruses. He did not elaborate. Based on a recent analysis, Mounjaro, an approved medication for Type 2 diabetes, has shown promise in reducing fat mass without significant loss of lean mass, which can improve overall body composition. In contrast, popular weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic have been found to result in the loss of lean mass instead of fat. The data showed that during a clinical trial of tirzepatide, the active substance of Mounjaro, participants experienced a reduction of 33 to 36 percent in fat mass and 10 to 11 percent in lean mass, varying based on age group. These findings indicate that lean mass was only a quarter of the weight lost. The post-study analysis, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in July 2022, provides valuable insights into the substantial and sustained reductions in body weight that Mounjaro may offer. The researchers did not explain why taking Mounjaro could lead to a more significant fat mass loss, and the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Why Lean Mass Matters Lean mass is the total body weight minus body fat weight, incorporating the weight of organs, skin, bones, body water, and muscle mass. During weight loss, body water and muscle mass are the two key components of lean mass to focus on since the weight of organs, skin, and bones remains relatively stable. Lean body mass is closely associated with basal metabolic rate, determining the calories burned at rest. Consequently, losing lean mass can decrease metabolism, resulting in the body burning fewer calories. Muscle has more mitochondria than any other organ, contributing to energy expenditure and calorie burning, according to Adarsh Gupta, medical weight loss practitioner and director of the Valley Forge Weight Management Center in Pennsylvania. The more muscle mass you have, the higher your metabolic rate and, in other words, higher metabolism, Gupta told The Epoch Times. This helps you lose fat easily. Muscle Matters Even More as People Age Loss of muscle mass is especially problematic for older adults. As old people lose muscle, they become less capable of maintaining balance, among other things, and are at risk for falls, hip fractures, and head injuries, all with catastrophic consequences, Dr. Mert Erogul, board-certified in emergency and obesity medicine, told The Epoch Times. Research has indicated that in older individuals, a decline in muscle mass coincides with an increase in fat mass and is associated with a higher incidence of insulin resistance, potentially leading to various conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosis. How to Build and Maintain Muscle Mass Muscle serves as a metabolically active tissue responsible for absorbing and storing energy, underscoring the significance of maintaining muscle for metabolic health, Erogul added. Maintaining muscle is simply a matter of using it and feeding [it] with protein. Protein is an essential component of the immune system, implying that an improved lean body mass can enhance the bodys ability to combat illness, infections, and stress more effectively. Incorporating strength or resistance training into your routine can help retain muscle mass while increasing fat burning. As muscle mass increases, the body requires more calories during rest periods. A 2021 study (pdf) found that strength training promotes cellular changes that facilitate burning fat. How Mounjaro Works Mounjaros active substance, tirzepatide, is a single molecule known to suppress appetite by activating the bodys receptors for glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1, natural incretin hormones. In comparison, semaglutide, the active substance in Ozempic and Wegovy, targets only GLP-1. All three medications require weekly injections. Ozempic and Wegovy, as sold in the United States, are manufactured by Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmaceutical company, while Mounjaro is produced by Eli Lilly and Company, an American pharmaceutical company based in Indianapolis. A randomized, active-controlled study conducted in 2021 found that tirzepatide was more effective than semaglutide regarding the average change in blood sugar levels and weight loss in Type 2 diabetes patients. However, it is worth noting that Eli Lilly funded the study, and the dosages of tirzepatide and semaglutide differed. Although Ozempic and Mounjaro are currently approved for treating Type 2 diabetes, many people seeking weight loss have been requesting off-label prescriptions from their doctors. Eli Lilly plans to seek approval for tirzepatide as an obesity drug, similar to Wegovy. This would potentially enable more people to access the medication through health insurance, despite its price tag of around $1,000 per month. The submission is expected to be completed in the coming weeks, with approval anticipated in late 2023. In April, Eli Lilly announced the completion of the second phase 3 clinical trial for tirzepatide, known as SURMOUNT-2. The trial involved 938 adults who were either obese, overweight, or had Type 2 diabetes, demonstrating weight loss of up to 15.7 percent among participants. Concerns About Mounjaro and Its Side Effects Despite the remarkable weight-reducing effects of these drugs, some doctors express concerns about their side effects and the underlying mechanism of action. They essentially operate on the same mechanism as an eating disorder, Lauren Muhlheim, a certified eating disorder specialist and clinical psychologist, told The Epoch Times, adding that people tend to lose weight because they eat less, not because the drugs magically burn fat. Muhlheim cautioned that individuals who do not consume sufficient food may be at risk of binge eating later and developing anorexia. Furthermore, research has shown that individuals who discontinued semaglutide regained two-thirds of the weight they had lost within a year. However, no similar study has been conducted regarding tirzepatide to date. In the 2022 study involving 2,539 participants, the most commonly reported side effects were gastrointestinal disorders, including nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Approximately 80 percent of participants receiving tirzepatide experienced at least one adverse event, compared to 72 percent in the placebo group. Serious adverse events were reported by 6.3 percent of participants, totaling 160 individuals, with similar occurrences in both the tirzepatide and placebo groups. However, researchers believe approximately one-fifth of these events were associated with COVID-19. Additionally, the study recorded 11 deaths, with seven occurring in the tirzepatide group and four in the placebo group. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that Mounjaro may potentially elevate the risk of thyroid tumors (pdf). However, a definitive link has not yet been established. During clinical trials conducted on rats, tirzepatide exhibited a correlation between dosage and duration of treatment, leading to the development of thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures. Moreover, in clinical studies, 14 cases of acute pancreatitis were confirmed by adjudication among 13 patients treated with the drug, according to the FDA. In comparison, there were three cases of acute pancreatitis among three patients treated with the comparator. It is important to note that Mounjaro has not been studied in patients with a previous history of pancreatitis. How Other Diabetes Medications Impact Weight Loss On the other hand, a 2021 double-blind study pointed out that semaglutide led to a more significant reduction in fat mass than lean body mass. However, it didnt specify how much more significant the drop was. A 2020 study showed that after 52 weeks with semaglutide, total fat mass (baseline 33.2 kilograms) was reduced by 3.4 kilograms, and total lean mass (baseline 51.3 kilograms) was reduced by 2.3 kilograms. Semaglutide is the active substance of Ozempic and Wegovy, hugely popular among people who want to lose weight. Wegovy has been approved to treat chronic weight management, while Ozempic is only for Type 2 diabetes patients. It is relevant to understand the effect of weight loss on fat mass and lean mass, particularly in the elderly. This new analysis shows that around three-quarters of the weight loss was fat mass, which is consistent across different ages, said Louis Aronne, a professor at the Comprehensive Weight Control Center at Weill Cornell Medicine College in New York. Aronne and colleagues presented the new analysis at the 30th European Congress on Obesity held in Dublin, Ireland, on May 1720. The abstract has been peer-reviewed by the Congress selection committee. Aronne, who has received funding from Eli Lilly, was among the authors of the 2022 study that received support from the same company. Hidden Impact of Massive Solar Farms: Residents and Wildlife Affected, Aquifers Threatened Giant wind turbines are powered by strong winds in front of solar panels in Palm Springs, Calif. on March 27, 2013. (Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) Californias deserts are transforming into a sea of solar panels, as the state seeks to reach ambitious renewable energy goals. But a growing group of residents and environmentalists say the move is coming at a significant price to wildlife, nearby residents health, native lands, and even property values. With 776 solar power plants producing approximately 17 percent of the states electricity, the Golden State is awash with bright silver and blue panels dotting hundreds of thousands of acres. Millions of panels have been installed east of Los Angeles in the Mojave Desert over the last five years, changing the look of the landscape in the process, and bringing with it a new set of challenges for nearby residents, according to experts. Dustin Mulvaney, a professor of environmental studies at San Jose State University said he is concerned about their impact on public land, including damage to ecosystems and soil and high water demand. There is potential concern for groundwater depletion, Mulvaney told The Epoch Times. A solar panel range is seen in what was once a field used for agriculture, in Californias Central Valley near Huron, Calif. on July 23, 2021. (Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images) A California law passed in 2014 regulates groundwater usage and is designed to preserve water supplies, but it does not apply to public lands. Such are managed by the Bureau of Land Management, a federal agency that oversees 245 million acres of land15 million of which are located in California. The bureau has prioritized 870,000 acres nationally for solar development, with more than 200,000 acres already sporting solar panels in California, according to its website. But concerns about the impacts on wildlife have some advocacy groups calling for a halt in such expansion until guidelines can be implemented, as animals are being displaced and migratory patterns altered due to the increasing quantity of such solar farms. Birds have been observed mistaking the shiny blue solar panels for water, and the mistake is costly, as the extreme heat from the reflective material can instantly incinerate them, according to experts. Desert tortoises are being killed and displaced, and bighorn sheep and deer are restricted from accessing some areas by six-foot barbed wire fencing surrounding such solar farms, leading to a loss of grazing habitat and restricting some creatures from navigating trails and accessing water sources, according to environmentalists. And corridors designed to allow movement for wildlife are inviting predatorsas the wily carnivores are learning to wait for prey emerging from the narrow strips of grassinto communities, with an increase in coyote and mountain lion sightings since the fences were installed, according to residents. Health Problems Driving Some Residents Away Residents of Lake Tamarisk Desert Resort located halfway between Phoenix and Los Angeles in Desert Center, California, say the construction of such solar farms is causing considerable nuisance, with some reporting health problems because of increased dust in the area. Patti Cockcroft said she has been seeking medical attention since she started experiencing a deep bronchial cough in March after spending two months in her desert home impacted by high winds and dust from a nearby solar field. Tests are currently underway to determine whether she has valley fevera serious illness associated with severe health complications and potential fatalityand doctors have told her the extreme conditions could have triggered a severe asthma attack. Its not very enticing to think of going back to the desert, Cockcroft said in an email sent to The Epoch Times. Vehicles drive on the California 14 Highway next to solar panels, part of an electricity generation plant, in Kern County near Mojave, Calif., on June 18, 2021. (Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images) Experts agree that issues related to construction-related soil removal and the resulting human exposure to dust particles are alarming. The real public health issue is valley fever, Mulvaney, of San Jose State, told The Epoch Times. Investigations conducted in 2018 by the Centers for Disease Control uncovered an increased incidence of valley fever in solar farm construction employees resulting from working in dusty conditions where fungal spores in the soil become airborne. After receiving reports of workplace injuries associated with valley fever, investigators discovered that solar farm workers in California were 4.4 to 210.6 times more likely to suffer from the illness than others working and living in the same counties. Dusty conditions can also lead to lung disease silicosis, which is of particular concern for miners manufacturing solar panels and for workers and nearby residents during the installation process, according to experts. Compounding Problems Affecting Communities A vehicle pileup near Los Angeles in 2013 was partially blamed on a solar development project after six were injured when a massive dust cloud forced the closure of the Antelope Valley Freeway. Efforts to mitigate dust by solar companies are compounding problems for some local communities, according to Teresa Pierce, another Lake Tamarisk resident. According to Pierce, such companies drive diesel-powered water trucks, creating noise and dust pollution while draining aquifers not refilled regularly by nature. Their water trucks are going round and round our pumping station, Pierce told The Epoch Times. Its been a dust bowl with constant construction noise. Prior attempts to communicate with the county, the Bureau of Land Management, and solar company representatives have been met with resistance, according to residents. They say theyre trying to work with the community, but no, theyre not, Pierce told The Epoch Times. They brought fake maps when they came and gave us a presentation. A solar panel range is seen in what was once a field used for agriculture, in Californias Central Valley near Huron, Calif. on July 23, 2021. (Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images) While requesting a moratorium on future solar farms within five miles of Lake Tamarisk, local advocates told lawmakers that their community is being turned into an island in a dead solar sea. Property values in communities near solar farm installations have been impacted, with once desirable lots now becoming difficult to sell, according to residents. Other communities say the solar farms are too close for comfort. Those around Lake Tamarisk have crept up on a residential community of approximately 500 with some residents reporting that panels are planned for installation approximately 750 feet from homes theyve lived in for decades. Residents have reached out to every responsible party, from local representatives all the way up to President Joe Biden, with the only response coming from Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA), who has agreed to meet for a discussion, according to documents provided to The Epoch Times. Another issue complicating matters is the destruction of cultural resources on tribal lands. The Mojave Desert and other areas where installation is occurring are situated on the native territory with historical value. The loss of artifacts, ancestral burial sites, and cultural landscapes is affecting tribal communities with limited resources to contest new development, according to a series of lawsuits filed over the last 12 years seeking to stop solar project development on tribal lands. The project is located in a region rich in cultural resources that have been used since time immemorial, Colorado River Indian Tribe Councilwoman Amanda Barrera said in a statement released when the tribe sued Riverside County in 2014 to halt development. These resources have remained intact for millennia, but now are threatened by ever-increasing pressure to develop utility-scale solar facilities. All attempts by tribal elders to stop solar projects with litigation have failed, with federal judges repeatedly upholding the governments right to utilize and develop them. Civil Servants Threaten to Strike Over Rwanda Policy An inflatable craft carrying illegal immigrants crosses the shipping lane in the English Channel off the coast of Dover, England, on Aug. 4, 2022. (Dan Kitwood/Getty Images) A union representing Home Office workers has threatened to strike over the governments plan to send illegal immigrants to Rwanda. The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union has already been involved in a legal challenge against the policy. The unions head of bargaining Paul OConnor said some civil servants fear they would be forced to carry out a policy that may be proved unlawful, and that the union wont rule anything out in terms of its responses. The threat has triggered a furious backlash from senior conservative politicians, with former minister Jacob Rees-Mogg saying whoever strikes over the policy should quit or be fired. Under the governments plan, anyone who enters the UK via illegal means, expect unaccompanied children, can be detained and relocated to a safe third country like Rwanda for processing and potential settlement unless they are unfit to fly or at a real risk of serious and irreversible harm in that country. They will also be banned from re-entering the UK. No one has been removed to Rwanda so far after the first deportation flight was emptied by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), but home secretaries will be given the option to ignore future ECHR injunctions if the governments Illegal Migration Bill is passed into law in its current form. Police officers stand near a plane reported by British media to be first to transport illegal immigrants to Rwanda at MoD Boscombe Down base in Wiltshire, Britain, on June 14, 2022. (Hannah McKay /Reuters) In a victory for the government, the High Court in London has ruled that its Rwanda policy is lawful (pdf). The Claimants, including the PCS union, charities Care4Calais and Detention Action, and several individuals, have brought the case to the Court of Appeal. The Independent on Wednesday quoted OConnor as saying the PCS union, whose members include Border Force staff and other Home Office workers, is ruling absolutely nothing out in terms of responses. He told the publication that the governments policy is harming the mental health of some civil servants, who feel if they were put in a position where they had to carry out an act that was subsequently proved to be unlawful, they themselves might be open to prosecution. If any litigation fails, they will want to explore with us whether theres an industrial solution, OConnor said. Rees-Mogg: Civil Servants Cant Strike Over Policy Rees-Mogg, a Conservative former minister who also has a show on GBNews, told the broadcaster that civil servants who go on strike over a government policy instead of quitting should be fired. Its a fundamental opposition to the whole basis of our Constitution that has an apolitical civil service that carries out the lawful instructions of the elected government. Any Home Office civil servant who fails to do that should be fired, he said. He also agreed with the suggestion that civils servants who go on strike over government policies should lose their pensions. Rees-Mogg noted that it remains to been seen whether members of the union will actually vote for a strike and that he hopes that civil servants will disassociate themselves with this hard left union. Former minister David Jones, deputy chair of the European Research Group, told The Independent civil servants cant pick and choose between policies and those who do are in the wrong job. The Hope Hostel, where migrants were meant to stay after arriving from the UK on a deportation flight, in Kigali, Rwanda, on June 16, 2022. (Victoria Jones/PA Media) A Home Office spokesperson said civil servants in the department work tirelessly to deliver ground-breaking policies, such as the Illegal Migration Bill. We have always maintained that the UK and Rwanda Migration and Economic Development Partnership is lawful, including complying with the Refugee Convention, and last year the High Court upheld this. We stand ready to continue to defend the policy against legal challenge, the statement reads. The government has argued that the Rwanda policy is needed to deter dangerous people smuggling across the English Channel on small boats and that its unnecessary for asylum seekers to leave France for the UK. Critics of the policy argue there are not enough safe and legal routes for asylum seekers to enter the island country and disputed Rwandas human rights record. The PCS unions threat to strike came as an audit report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said the UKs asylum registration and screening systems expect staff to do too much, too quickly, and with inadequate training, facilities, guidance and oversight. The report said the system resulted in wasted work, unreliable records, and risks to the welfare of asylum seekers. A Home Office spokesperson said in a statement that significant improvements have been made to the processing of small boats arrivals since the UNHCR audit took place in 2021 and early 2022. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. President of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) Rovshan Najaf met with BP's Executive Vice President for Production and Operations Gordon Birrell on May 31, 2023, Trend reports. During the meeting, satisfaction was expressed with the mutually beneficial cooperation and strategic partnership between SOCAR and BP. The sides discussed areas of cooperation on current and prospective oil and gas projects, exchanged their views on projects in the field of renewable energy sources, as well as considered the exchange of experience in the field of human capital and other issues of mutual interest. BP's Executive Vice President is currently in Baku for a three-day visit, coinciding with the prestigious Baku Energy Week. As part of his visit agenda, Birrell has scheduled meetings with Prime Minister Ali Asadov, Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov, and SOCAR CEO Rovshan Najaf. The discussions will revolve around BP's global and regional business priorities, recent developments, and the progress of BP-operated projects in Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkiye (AGT). Additionally, the meetings will explore the ways in which BP can support Azerbaijan's efforts in transitioning towards sustainable energy. House Passes Motion Calling on Johnston to Step Down as Special Rapporteur David Johnston, Independent Special Rapporteur on Foreign Interference, presents his first report in Ottawa on May 23, 2023. (The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick) Opposition parties have all voted in favour of an NDP motion calling on David Johnston to immediately step down from his current role as special rapporteur on foreign election interference. The Conservatives, Bloc Quebecois, and NDP voted in favour of the non-binding motion in the House on May 31introduced by NDP MP Jenny Kwan the day priorcalling on Johnston to step aside from the role and requesting the government urgently establish a public commission of inquiry. The motion passed by a vote of 174 to 150, with the Liberals and Independent MP Han Dong voting against it. Kwans motion said Johnston should step down due to concerns over the special rapporteur process, the counsel he retained in support of this work, his findings, and his conclusions. The motions reference to Johnstons counsel was of Johnstons key advisor, Sheila Block, who reportedly made a total of over $7,500 in previous donations to the Liberal Party of Canada. In addition to demanding a public inquiry, Kwans motion also called for any potential such commission established by the government to be led by an individual selected with unanimous support from all recognized parties in the House who would be granted the power to review all aspects of foreign interference from all states, including, but not limited to, the Chinese, Indian, Iranian and Russian governments. Should an inquiry commission be established, the motion also requested that it present its report and any recommendations in advance of the next dissolution of Parliament or, at the latest, at the fixed election date as set by Elections Canada. Lastly, the motion called on the Liberal government to instruct the Commons Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs to provide the House with a report as quickly as possible recommending who should lead the requested public inquiry and what its terms of reference should include. In his May 23 report, Johnston recommended against the government establishing a public inquiry into foreign interference allegations due to the confidential nature of intelligence information that would need to be presented. Johnston instead recommended that the government call for a number of public hearings to address the possible interference actions. The former governor generals recommendations received heavy criticism from opposition parties, while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reiterated several times that Johnston has been impartial as special rapporteur. IN-DEPTH: Parents Should Teach Children to Defend Against Woke Ideas, Says Author Karol Markowicz, co-author of "Stolen Youth: How Radicals Are Erasing Innocence and Indoctrinating a Generation," in Washington on April 26, 2023. (Wei Wu/The Epoch Times) Parents should teach their children to become resilient to woke ideologies, which means being able to recognize when such a concept is pushed on them and to think for themselves, said a co-author of a new book on the subject. Parents should be able to influence their children so they can think for themselves when they are faced with forces in society pushing them in a certain direction, said Karol Markowicz, New York Post columnist and co-author of Stolen Youth: How Radicals Are Erasing Innocence and Indoctrinating a Generation. The term woke is used by both liberals and conservatives to describe a number of more radical progressive ideologies, including critical race theory, social justice, and gender theory. Although it isnt reasonable that children will follow everything that a parent tells them, they should not be subject to indoctrination by their teacher or physician, Markowicz said in an April 26 interview for EpochTVs American Thought Leaders program. The idea that you should be able to indoctrinate my children is one that I find abhorrent, she said. Markowicz said that her kids move through the world with an awareness of when someone is trying to convince them of something because she teaches them to be aware of woke ideologies. She said that her two older children are able to recognize when a concept is being pushed on them or when theyre getting someones opinion and not fact, and they ask their mother for guidance. The goal is to raise resilient children who can go out into the world and not feel a level of anxiety that debilitates them, Markowicz said. Raising resilient children does not necessarily mean raising conservatives, Markowicz explained. I would love for my kids to be conservative, but I would most like them to be resilient and grow up into resilient adults who are able to live their lives to their full capacity and not be hindered by bad ideas. The goal is to give them the tools to evaluate what they hear out in the world, she said. Parental Duty When we treat kids like little adults, we instill all of our problems and issues on them, and that really does mess them up going forward, Markowicz said. But it seems like the parents are just as ideologically captured. Markowicz told a story of a child suffering from a sore throat who refused to open his mouth when a doctor asked him to do so for examination. The mother backed the child, telling the doctor that its his body, his choice, to the doctors astonishment. This is the natural progression of this thing where the kids in charge, Markowicz said. Children need parents to show them the way and teach them, she added. Parents are really abdicating that duty, and its going to have bad repercussions. It used to be understood that if someone asks a child to keep a secret from their parents, that person is doing something bad to the child, Markowicz said, but now, schools are concealing from parents that their children are transitioning to another gender. Theres so much evidence that what the kids pick up in society as its being pushed on them really does resonate, Markowicz said, giving examples of child indoctrination in Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. In Nazi Germany, the idea of anti-Semitism was being pushed on kids in schools and promoted in culture, so as a result, the generation of children brought up under Nazi rule became far more anti-Semitic than previous or post generations, Markowicz asserted. In the Soviet Union, kids were seen as the ultimate revolutionaries, said Markowicz, who was born in the Soviet Union and emigrated to the United States as a small child. [The Soviets] tried to separate kids from their parents for indoctrination. But even the Soviets could not say openly that the children were theirs and belonged to all in the society, like President Joe Biden claimed recently during a speech, Markowicz said, because parents would have pushed back against that. On April 24, at a speech to honor the national and state teachers of the year, Biden said theres no such thing as someone elses child. Our nations children are all our children. The Soviets were slyly saying that they were helping parents to raise their kids, Markowicz said. Children Used as Activists Markowicz and her co-author, commentator Bethany Mandel, wrote in their book about how the political left uses children to be their activists. They received many comments from readers who did not believe them, calling it ridiculous and a conspiracy theory, Markowicz said. An example of teen activism is gun control advocacy by teenagers who survived the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Markowicz said. The media immediately fell in love with them, Markowicz said. CNN organized a town hall in which a group of students from the school confronted several lawmakers, including Sen. Marco Rubio, a local county sheriff, and a spokeswoman for the National Rifle Association on stage, and Markowicz said the teens were clearly traumatized. How can you argue with a child? she asked rhetorically. Some of them went on to become activists, but at least one of them really regrets that appearance and regrets that whole episode because he feels like he was pressured into it, she said. Markowicz seemed to be referring to Cameron Kasky, a survivor of the Florida school shooting who co-founded the gun control advocacy group March For Our Lives before leaving the group. Kasky was a participant in the CNN town hall. In an interview on The Ben Shapiro Show later that year, he said he regretted trying to embarrass Rubio on stage. I incredibly inappropriately likened him to a school shooter. Im embarrassed by that. Im incredibly apologetic for it, the teenager said, adding that although his polticial opinions havent change and he still disagrees with Rubio on policies, the senator deserved to be treated more fairly. Climate Activism Swedish teen Greta Thunberg was inspired by the Parkland survivors activism and became an activist on climate change, Markowicz said. It was a grownup in her life who knew that she was passionate about climate change, and seeing the reaction to the Parkland students advocacy, the adult suggested that Thunberg could do the same thing with climate, Markowicz said. Thunberg told CNN in 2018 that after learning about school walkouts in the United States due to the Parkland shooting, someone she knew proposed that children could do the same thing for climate change. Thunberg said that she found that idea very good and decided to follow the suggestion. So at the age of 15, she walked out of her Swedish school to protest the inaction of climate change, according to CNN. In 2019, Thunberg spoke at the United Nations climate summit, harshly criticizing world leaders for insufficient action to counter climate change and telling them that they are still not mature enough to tell it like it is. For more than 30 years, the science has been crystal clear. How dare you continue to look away, Thunberg said at the summit. Markowicz commented on the effectiveness of this approach. How are you going to argue with this pigtailed little girl who is afraid that the world is going to end? she said. They have set up a situation where their opinions are impossible to confront. Kids are much easier to persuade than a full-grown adult who has their own ideas and concepts and thoughts, she said. If you start the indoctrination early, you can ideologically capture most children. You can feed them ideas throughout their schooling and make them believe what you want them to believe. How Wokeism Works Markowicz defined wokeism as a combination of leftist ideology with forced conformity. Old leftism definitely tried to push its agenda and did so successfully at the college level, Markowicz explained, but the new wokeism wont allow any room for conversation. The new wokeism, as opposed to liberalism or the old leftism, walks such a narrow line that you have to parrot the words in exactly the right way. You can only speak about [ideas] in a certain way, Markowicz said, giving the example that you cant say: Im not racist; you have to say, Im anti-racist. The goal used to be to teach kids to explore their own ideas and have their own thoughts and concepts, Markowicz said. Now, we dont have that because everybody has to think the exact same way under this woke regime, she said. The jargon has to change so that you know whos in the in-group. She made a prediction that the word trans would be out of favor very soon. People who believe that their gender is different than their biological sex and present as the opposite sex are called a trans. A biological male who believes that he is a woman and presents as a female is called a transwoman, and a biological female who believes she is male and presents as a man is called a transman, she explained. Very soon, the fact that youre even qualifying that theyre not actually a man or not actually a woman will be unacceptable, she said. Just like the way vagrant became homeless, then became unhoused.' The woke are a very small segment of the population, and yet, theyre able to control so much, she said. They do that through this forced conformity. Markowicz encourages parents to stand up to wokeism for themselves and their children. When they see that you are brave and not afraid of the slings and arrows, youll find a community of people willing to do the same. IN-DEPTH: Texas Physician Continues to Face Repercussions for Not Complying With Discredited Mask Mandates A Texas physician continues to face repercussions for not complying with the now widely discredited mask mandate issued during the pandemic. The Texas Medical Board (TMI) charged Dr. Eric Hensen with unprofessional or dishonorable conduct that is likely to deceive or defraud the public based on a patient complaint that he wasnt wearing a mask while treating a patient in 2020. Being an experienced ear nose and throat, head and neck surgeon with extensive knowledge and training in the upper airway, I was well aware of the limitations of wearing a facial covering of any kind and aware of the dangers of wearing these face coverings, Henson told The Epoch Times. I have relied on my experience in my field along with roughly 100 years of random controlled trials proving that masks or any sort of facial covering are ineffective and are dangerous. In a meeting with the TMB, Hensen said he presented multiple studies disputing the efficacy of the mask mandate, but that information was completely ignored. Among those studies was one (pdf) conducted by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, which found mask wearers experienced an increase in blood carbon dioxide levels and a drop in blood oxygen saturation levels, leading to increases in heart and respiratory rates. The study went on to address multiple physiological, neurological, psychological, psychiatric, dermatological, dental, and sociological issues masks the study said masks have caused. Ive found no evidence that masks work, only that they cause harm, and I swore an oath to do no harm, Hensen said. Henson was later brought before the TMB to further explain his position. Unfortunately, the individuals involved in this were not interested in the science or the care of the patients, but rather that they had a rule that the governor had issued a mandate, and I did not comply, Hensen said. The subsequent rule and mandate had expired after October 2020; however, the two times that I was reported was during the time that it was in place. Ironically in July 2021, the governor rescinded that only the mandate but also the penalties associated with the mask mandate. Still, the TMB found Hensen in violation of the executive order and required him to pay a $500 fine, complete eight hours of continuing medical education classes, and take a jurisprudence exam. They also placed on my Texas medical profile a statement that I was an unprofessional doctor who has deceived his patients, Hensen said. Being labeled as an unprofessional doctor has seriously compromised my ability to get referrals as individuals who read this are less likely to come to this office. Hensen contends that he was forced to sign the remedial agreement in October 2021 with the TMB under duress. If he had tried to fight the charge, Hensen said it would have cost him tens of thousands of dollars, which would have amounted to naught had he been found guilty. In addition, he was threatened with being reported to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB), which Hensen called a very serious consequence for physicians. Insurance companies monitor the NPDP for infractions, which results in the loss of contracts with insurers, Hensen said. Because of his schedule, Hensen said it was impossible to complete all that was required to remedy a penalty for not complying with a scientifically unsound mandate that has since been lifted. He was called again before TMB in March 2023 to explain why he hadnt completed the remedial plan, where he reiterated his stance and the fact that the governor had rescinded the order and its penalties. The TMB then responded by suspending his license and reporting him to the NPDB. An Enormous Burden Hensen later went on The Glenn Beck Program to tell his story. At the end of the podcast, Beck asked listeners to call the TMB to advocate for Hensen. His license was later reinstated three days after it was suspended. According to his attorney Paul Davis, its likely it was reinstated because of pressure from the public. Given the timing, thats how it seems, Davis said. Though his license was lifted, the effects of the report to the NPDP continue to be felt, he said. Its placed an enormous burden on not only the practice but also my ability to make a living, Hensen said. All of this because of a ridiculous order in 2020 that has led to this moment. No Jurisdiction Can Impose Any Type of Penalty or Fine Hensens legal teamDavis and legal investigator Amy Coello are questioning the TMBs authority to carry out these penalties. Coello points to a statement made by Abbot during a 2020 press conference in which he said, We strongly recommend that everyone wear a mask. However, its not a mandate. And we make clear that no jurisdiction can impose any type of penalty or fine. Failure to comply is punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000, confinement in jail for a term not to exceed 180 days, or both fine and confinement. According to Hensens legal team, the TMB has arbitrarily imposed penalties based on a loose interpretation of Abbotts executive orders. A legal analysis has concluded that the Texas State Medical Board does not have the power to adopt rules and impose penalties that supersede penalties imposed by the governor, Coello said. The governors executive orders, which carry the force of law, limit the authority of local and state agencies, including the Texas State Medical Board. No Authority Medical boards throughout the country began issuing violations and license suspensions over treatments for COVID, such as ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine, as well as infractions for failure to comply with COVID policies. Currently, Dr. Meryl Nass has had her fifth hearing with the Maine Medical Board over her license, which was suspended in 2021 for what it alleged to be unprofessional and disruptive behavior related to her criticism of COVID policies and treatment. In a previous article, Nass argued that state medical boards had taken the law into their own hands. Laws, she said, are made in the legislature; however, nonprofit medical organizations threatened physicians with license suspensions if they spread what they deemed was misinformation about COVID. Naas pointed to the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB), a nonprofit that Nass said has no regulatory authority, though state medical boards pay dues and depend upon it for policies and training. In July 2021, FSMB issued this statement warning that physicians who generate and spread COVID-19 vaccine misinformation or disinformation are risking disciplinary action by state medical boards, including the suspension or revocation of their medical license. Medical boards such as the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Pharmacists Association followed suit. All of these organizations have presidents who earn about a million dollars, so they are what I call bloated nonprofits, Nass said. None of them had the authority to threaten doctors licenses or their specialty certifications. After the nonprofit organizations applied pressure, 15 of the 70 U.S. state medical boards began investigating their local doctors, Nass said. In 2021, Tennessee state Rep. John Ragan intervened in the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners (TBME) rush to adopt FSMBs policy to pursue those physicians who didnt accept the COVID narrative. Ragan, a Republican, told The Epoch Times that the adopted policy moved out of the guardrails of the law and gives the board arbitrary judgment on what misinformation is. I explained that if they are going to have a policy on this sometime in the future, they need to define what misinformation and disinformation are because otherwise, what you have is the Inquisition, Ragan said. It then becomes a situation of, Heresy is what I say it is, and Ill know it when I see it kind of thing. Dr. Meryl Nass. (Courtesy of Dr. Meryl Nass) Fishing Expeditions Texas state Sen. Bob Hall, a Republican, had introduced a bill to set up guardrails around the TMB, but it failed to pass in the House. The bills intent was to keep the TMB focused on real issues, he told The Epoch Times, and to stop taking heresy complaints from social media and secondary sources. They should be looking firsthand knowledge cases instead of letting doctors use the Texas Medical Board as a weapon, which theyve been known to do; that is, turning in other doctors for things to help slim down competition, Hall said. In one example, Hall said a patient could get treated for COVID by a doctor who prescribes budesonide and hydroxychloroquine, and then she gets better and discusses the treatment with a neighbor. That neighbor then goes to his own doctor, who tells the patient to go home and take Tylenol until he needs to go to the hospital. He complains to the doctor and discusses his neighbors treatment with her doctor. That second doctor then calls the TMB to report the first doctors unorthodox treatments. That complaint then becomes a full investigation, Hall said. Theres also a case in which a person is talking with another person who says he didnt have to wear a mask to his doctors visit. Then that other person reports the doctor to the TMB for not complying, even if the person never had an appointment with the doctor himself, Hall said. According to Hall, the TMB has taken upon itself the authority to go on fishing expeditions with the interest of keeping its numbers up on how many investigations and actions it takes. Even Gov. Abbott himself said no one should be punished for not wearing a mask, but the board ignored that completely, Hall said. They were looking for pelts on their belt, and so they had one there. The doctor didnt wear a mask, and they wanted to nail him. Tyrannical Nonelected Officials Hensen said hes concluded that the TMB has no interest in the protection of the patient. I presented the board at our initial meeting roughly 45-plus years of science, and it was completely ignored, Hensen said. It is my situation that shows how tyrannical nonelected officials can be and how important it is to have oversight of these individuals. For Hensen, his situation shows why the Founding Fathers warned of people and groups having unchecked authority over citizens. What has happened over the last three years not only to me, but also to other physicians, is unacceptable and should never occur again, Hensen said. The Epoch Times contacted the TMB for comment. IN-DEPTH: Whistleblower Retribution Worse Than Combat Tours, Suspended FBI Agent Says Seeing his 7-year-old daughter's concern for him expressed in a note left FBI Special Agent Garret O'Boyle almost speechless. (Chris Duzynski for The Epoch Times) VERNON, Wis.What hit home the hardest for suspended FBI Special Agent Garret J. OBoyle was a hand-crafted note made by his 7-year-old daughter, Gwen. A sensitive and conscientious girl, Gwen colored her note with blue markerDads favorite color. On the cover she drew a blue heart. Inside she penned her best words of encouragement. I love you, the note began. Hope you start attacking. We believe in you that you get your job back. Love, Gwen. The father of four girls got choked up trying to read the note. OBoyle, 36, and his wife Heidi, 37, have tried to shield the girls from the tempest swirling around them. Little girls are perceptive, however. Tears welled up in OBoyles eyes, thinking about his girls. For a little 7-year-old girl to see that and suffer in that way, OBoyle said, his voice trailing off. I thought I was covering it up as best I could. And then she gave me that, and I knew that I wasnt. This Wisconsin family of six is at the center of an FBI firestorm. OBoyle is part of a whistleblower group trying to expose the weaponization of the once-vaunted federal agency founded in July 1908. OBoyle had his FBI security clearance yanked by the bureau on Sept. 26, 2022, after an allegation was lodged that he said was retaliation for his reporting FBI abuses to a U.S. House committee. He was one of three current and former FBI employees who testified on May 18 before House Judiciarys Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, chaired by U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio). The U.S. Army veteran and former patrol officer with the Waukesha, Wis., police department has transformed himself from a law-enforcement officer and agent to a whistleblower, trying to expose what he and others see as the dark path being followed by the FBI. The testimony given and allegations made by OBoyle, Stephen Friend, and Marcus Allen put them under heavy fire and led to job suspension, loss of income, deeply personal attacks from Democrats, and an uncertain future. While on suspension, the men were not allowed to seek other employment. Their private testimony before Jordans committee from February 2023 was leaked to corporate media in highly selectiveand often inaccuratesnippets. They leaked parts of these guys interviews to the press. The press reported on it, and then the press had to issue corrections, Jordan said. The Post, Washington Post, New York Times, Rolling Stone. Because what the Democrats told them wasnt accurate, what they reported wasnt accurate. The men have been subjected to some of the same treatment that hundreds of Jan. 6 defendants have experienced since early 2021. OBoyle had a hard-earned promotion snatched from him the day the job starteda situation that left his family living in an RV with nowhere else to go. It has been a trying time, he said in an interview with The Epoch Times at his tidy rental home in a quiet subdivision near Waukesha. Jan. 6 Cases OBoyle was assigned to the FBIs Wichita, Kan., resident agency, part of the Kansas City Field Office. Like many special agents, he was assigned to investigate Jan. 6 cases after the 2021 Capitol incursion. One case involved following up on a tip that came to the National Threat Operations Center (NTOC). The tip said that a particular man was at the Capitol on Jan. 6, with a group of other people and that they had weapons. OBoyle said for tips like this to be useful, they need corroboration. So he traveled to the mans hometown and made contact with him through an officer at the local police department. The man said he did not want to speak to the FBI. Still, OBoyle said he wanted to perform his due diligence. At some point, this took me maybe five days, a week, to run the ground entirely, he said. Because as it progressed, I was like, Ive got to dot every I and cross every T on this, or its going to come back on me as if Im not doing my job. A short time later, OBoyle received an email on the FBIs unclassified system with an alleged facial-recognition match for the subject. He checked it against the mans most recent drivers license photo. There was no resemblance. The photo they used of someone on the steps at the Capitol, was a guy with a full head of hair, and was probably 150 pounds lighter than my guy, OBoyle said. And Im like, What the heck is going on here?' OBoyle tracked the facial recognition match back to an FBI employee in Kansas City. He called the man. This guy was adamant about how I had a match, OBoyle recalled. I was like, What is it not clear about this? You sent me a drivers license photo from 25 years ago. Do you understand due process at all? And hes like, You have a match. Im looking at your email. I just sent you the up-to-date, drivers license photo, OBoyle said. He opens it and were talking and we end the phone call and he goes, Its your case, do whatever you want with it, but you still have a match. Im like, What the heck is wrong with your brain?' A short time later, an agent in the FBI Washington Field Office sent an email requesting OBoyle draw up a grand jury subpoena for someone with an account on the website AR15.comostensibly OBoyles subject. Where are they getting this idea? OBoyle said. Based off that anonymous tip, you think that John Doe is the username from AR-15.com? Based off of what? Digging deeper in the FBIs system, OBoyle discovered the grand jury request had also been sent to a special agent in Baltimore or Pittsburgh. That agent declined to pursue a subpoena. Lack of Evidence They didnt do the grand jury subpoena either, because they didnt have enough. You cant just subpoena whatever you want, OBoyle said. You have to have some type of indicia that you can. I read what that guy wrote up and he closed his report on Saturday. Theres not enough information here for me to subpoena this because there was this post on AR15.com. OBoyle took all of his information on the subject to his training officer, to get a sense if he was missing something. FBI Special Agent Garret OBoyle strained to figure out why the bureau pushed so hard to link a subject to violence at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. (Chris Duzynski for The Epoch Times) Hes like, I dont know whats going on here. I dont know what is up with these people, why theyre really trying so hard to get this information.' As a final step, both men called the Washington Field Office agent who originally asked for the grand jury subpoenas. We call her up, OBoyle recalled. Shes like, giggling. Not one answer about why she wants me to do the things shes asking me to do. We get off the phone, and I look at [my training officer], Im like, I aint doing that. Im not doing any of that.' OBoyle declined to pursue the subject further for lack of evidence. He eventually submitted the case to Congress as an abuse of authority, gross mismanagement and violation of a rule or policy. If its happening in Wichita, Kansas, happening everywhere, he said. I bet you they got that subpoena from somebody. They were just shopping it around. There was no indication that it was my guy. A New Assignment Things could not have been going any better when OBoyle decided to apply for a new FBI position based in Washington. A new unit was being formed to do surveillance. A kind of quick-response force that would aid any FBI office that needed more substantial surveillance capabilities than what was on hand locally. After being chosen for the unit in late May 2022, OBoyle began looking for a new home in suburban Virginia. He was in Washington for training for the new assignment. He decided to use his evenings to look for a new house. After the last day of training, he found a house he loved in Stafford, a city of about 160,000 in northern Virginia. The move was going to be good for the family. By late September 2022, OBoyle was ready to start his new job. The family house Kansas was sold. The family was living in an Airbnb until the new house was ready. All of the family belongings were in storage in Virginia. Waukesha Police Department Officer Garret OBoyle with daughter Gwen, approximately 2017. (Courtesy of Garret OBoyle) OBoyle said his new boss tried to talk him into taking a few days of leave rather than report on the agreed-upon date. He was anxious to get started, so he showed up on Sept. 26. One other employee showed up for orientation that day. That person was led down one hall, while OBoyle was shown into a conference room. Thats when the trouble started. OBoyle said he was told that someone made an allegation that he leaked protected information to two media outlets, the Washington Times and Project Veritas. I met with two agents who never identified themselves with their creds, OBoyle said. I dont even know if they told me their names. They asked me some of this stuff about Veritas and Washington Times. And Im like, Nope, not me. Im thinking like, Oh, Im just gonna tell them it wasnt me. And Im gonna go back to work.' That didnt happen. A security officer and two more agents came into the room. OBoyle was told to surrender his service weapon, his credentials and building-access card. I take my gun out of my holster and I go to unload it and this other agent grabs my arm, and takes it out of my hand, OBoyle said. Im thinking, Really, dude? Im thinking, If I wanted to shoot you, you would have been shot. You dont need to do that. But he did. OBoyles security clearance was revoked by the FBI and he was placed on unpaid suspension. In a matter of minutes, his dream promotion and his income evaporated. His belongings were being held by the bureau. His wife was back in Wisconsin, recovering from the C-section delivery of their daughter, Lucy. Thats the part that has been the hardest for me is to have my livelihood stripped, he said. My ability to take care of my family just taken. And, you know, Im sure people would say this is too extreme, but I dont think it is. In the modern era, when you take a mans livelihood away from him, and you tell him he cant have another one, thats a death warrant. And youre going to say, You quit. Were not going to fire you. You quit. And then you can go on about your life. OBoyle said the FBI handed him a $2,500 tax bill for the cost to move the family belongings from Kansas to Virginia, claiming the covered moving expenses were income under federal tax rules. He is challenging the bill. Partisan Attacks Before OBoyle, Friend, and Allen spoke a syllable of testimony before the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, Chairman Jordan warned them about attacks from Democrat lawmakers. I just want to tell you guys, get ready, Jordan said. Get ready because these guys are going to come after you. You know they are. Suspended FBI special agent Garret OBoyle testifies during a hearing before the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government of the House Judiciary Committee at the Rayburn House Office Building on May 18, 2023. (Alex Wong/Getty Images) Wearing a blue suit, light blue dress shirt and a green, blue and orange patterned tie selected by his daughter Iris, OBoyle was the first to testify. Im sad. Im disappointed, and Im angry that I have to be here to testify about the weaponization of the FBI and the DOJ. He sat before a deeply divided group of lawmakers and told his story of FBI retaliation for reporting malfeasance to Congress. I never swore an oath to the FBI, OBoyle said. I swore an oath to the Constitution. As soon as the men finished their prepared remarks, the attacks began from Democrat members of the subcommittee. Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.) confronted Allen with a Twitter post about Jan. 6. She seemed unfazed when he told her that it was not his post or his account. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) repeatedly interrupted committee chairman Jordan, asserting the men are not whistleblowers. Rep. Stacey Plaskett (D-U.S. Virgin Islands) said: MAGA Republicans are a threat to the rule of law in America. She called the witnesses former agents who lost their top-secret clearances because they were a threat to our national security. Schultz suggested former Special Agent Friends coming to Congress with whistleblower disclosures was timed to coincide with the forthcoming release of a book, True Blue. Friend told The Epoch Times he refused to take a $25,000 advance from the publisher and told the company he did not care if he made any money from the book. Tougher Than War For OBoyle, having his loyalty and patriotism questioned has been especially vexing. He enlisted in the U.S. Army as an infantryman in 2006, serving two years in Alaska and one year in Iraq. He reenlisted, was promoted to sergeant and assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, 4th Brigade Combat Team, based at Fort Campbell, Ky. In Iraq, OBoyles platoon was stationed about 50 miles from the Iranian border. One day, a man on a bus full of people blew himself up in a town that was part of his platoons area of operation. We get spun off to go respond. So we get out there and its mayhem. You know, its, I think in total, there were right around 45 dead, 77 wounded and body parts. The two I remember the most was this little kid, my oldest nephew, they were about the same age at the time. Just [lying] on the ground. And then this old lady. You know those white plastic lawn chairs, the cheap ones? [She was] just sitting in one of those, slumped over. Even after experiencing the horrors of service in Iraq and Afghanistan, OBoyle said being targeted by the FBI is worse. It has taken more of a toll than war, and I think thats really quite the statement, he said. I think part of that is because I never thought I would be a target of my own government for trying to do whats right, for trying to live up to the oath that Ive taken. In an email to The Epoch Times, the FBI national press office said, We dont have any comment on OBoyles testimony. Helping Hands The OBoyle family spent about eight weeks living in his brother-in-laws RV back in Wisconsin before finding a rental home. Early mornings when he couldnt sleep, OBoyle sat outside in a lawn chair, watching videos of the trial of Darrell Brooks, the Milwaukee man who drove his red SUV down the Christmas parade route in Waukesha in November 2021, mowing down children and adults. Six people were killed and more than 60 injured. The parade massacre hit home for OBoyle, since his former colleagues worked all along the parade route. One of his best friends at the Waukesha Police DepartmentOfficer Bryce Scholtenfired three shots into the SUV in an attempt to stop Brooks deadly rampage. OBoyles former co-workers have stepped up to help his family, which has been without benefit of his FBI salary for more than eight months. Kyle Seraphin, a former FBI special agent who said he was targeted for suspension for questioning the Bureaus COVID-19 vaccine mandates, said the treatment OBoyle received from Democrats on Capitol Hill and the FBI was atrocious. It feels calculated, Seraphin told The Epoch Times. And it was pathetically unprofessional and sloppy investigative work to make an allegation about him doing something when there is zero evidence he did what they alleged. Any serious and competent investigation would have involved asking me questions since he and I were coordinating whistleblower activity, Seraphin said. Seraphin organized an online GiveSendGo fund-raiser for the OBoyle and Allen families that has raised more than $590,000 in just two weeks. House Democrats tried to make an issue of $5,000 grants given to the whistleblower families at Christmas 2022 by a foundation run by Kash Patel, a former senior Trump administration official. OBoyle said the money was a godsend. Patel, the co-host of Kashs Corner on Epoch TV, said his foundation will continue to help whistleblowers. We provide support to brave patriots who protect our nation while the radical left and government gangsters destroy the essence of our republic with their two-tier system of justice, Patel told The Epoch Times. Having a charitable foundation is not a monopoly they own. We are committed to the truth and give financial assistance to those in need, especially the courageous Americans who shed sunlight on government corruption. One of the most remarkable moments during the whole whistleblower ordeal came when a former Waukesha Police Department officer passed along a message from OBoyles former captain. It said simply: Are you safe? I was like, I dont know. I wont hold my breath,' OBoyle said. But think of that. Hes a captain. I think hes been there over 20 years. He was an Army Ranger. Thats what real law enforcement thinks of the FBI. They think that their former colleague is now unsafe because of his speaking out. What does that tell America? That scary stuff. Japan, China to Resume Reciprocal Visits of Defense Officers After 4 Years Members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) bring down the Japanese national flag in the early evening at the JGSDF Miyako camp on Miyako Island, Okinawa prefecture, Japan, on April 20, 2022. (Issei Kato/Reuters) Japan and China will restart mutual visits by their defense officers in July after a four-year hiatus amid strained relations, the programs organizer said on May 30. Japans Self-Defense Forces (SDF) will send 10 senior officers to visit China in July, while the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) members will visit Japan in the fall, the Sasakawa Japan-China Friendship Fund (SJCFF) stated. The SJCFF is a private foundation established by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation in 1989, which has been instrumental in organizing the exchange program between Japan and China, Kyodo News reported. The decision to resume mutual visits between SDF and PLA officers came as China abolished its strict zero-COVID policy in December 2022. The most recent exchanges took place in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic occurred. About 152 SDF members have been sent to China on 13 trips, while China has dispatched 228 PLA members to Japan on 12 trips since the exchange program began in 2001, according to the organization. Commenting on JapanChina relations, Sasakawa Yohei, honorary chairman of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, said he believes that the private sector can help to establish a gateway for mutual understanding between the two countries. The situation between governments and the private sector is different. At times like this, it is effective for the private sector to create a window for mutual understanding, Yohei told reporters, according to The Diplomat. Its very important to hobnob together and have informal conversations. This military exchange is unique even in the world. ChinaTaiwan Tensions Relations between China and Japan have been strained by tensions in the East China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. Japan had protested repeated intrusions by Chinese vessels in the Senkaku Islands, which are under Japanese control, although Beijing claims the islands, also known as the Diaoyu Islands. As for the situation in the Taiwan Strait, Japan considers the stability surrounding Taiwan to be of paramount importance for its security, but Beijing has warned Tokyo to not interfere in the Taiwan issue. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) claims democratic self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and has threatened to bring the island under its control by force if necessary. A Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force P-3C Orion surveillance plane flies over the disputed islands, called the Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China, in the East China Sea on Oct. 13, 2011. (Kyodo News via AP/File) In April, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi visited China for talks with his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang, the first such visit by a Japanese foreign minister in three years. Hayashi conveyed his concerns over Chinas intensification of military activities around Japan, particularly near the Senkaku Islands, and Chinas cooperation with Russia. However, Qin warned Japan to refrain from interfering in the Taiwan issue or undermining Chinas sovereignty in any form, noting that the Taiwan issue is at the very core of Chinas core interests. Last week, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong summoned Japans ambassador to lodge a protest over the Group of Seven (G-7) leaders summit, which Japan hosted. Still, the Japanese envoy defended the G-7 actions. If China asks not to mention these concerns, it should first take active countermeasures, Japanese envoy Hideo Tarumi said in a statement, urging China to handle its relations with Japan properly. The two nations have established a direct military hotline to prevent maritime and air clashes. Japans Defense Ministry stated that the line will be used to respond to unforeseen circumstances and build trust between the two countries. Japan to Test Beaming Solar Power From Space in 2025: Report In this image taken from NASA video, a solar panel is unfolded at the International Space Station on June 20 2021. (NASA via AP) Japan is exploring ways to beam solar power from space, a project thats expected to be tested in 2025, even as concerns remain about the costs involved in such a project. If we can demonstrate our technology ahead of the rest of the world, it will also be a bargaining tool for space development with other countries, Naoki Shinohara, a professor at Kyoto University, told Nikkei Asia. In about fiscal year 2025, a Shinohara-led group intends to see if power can be transmitted from space to the ground using small satellites. Space-based solar power would involve placing solar panels at an altitude of 36,000 kilometers (22,369 miles). The solar energy thats soaked up would be converted to microwaves and transmitted to receiving stations on Earth for conversion to electrical energy. The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry is at the forefront of harnessing space-based solar power. In 2015, the group successfully ran microwave transmission experiments horizontally, before attempting vertical transmission in 2018; both experiments were conducted over 50 meters. The team plans to carry out vertical experiments from 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) to 5 kilometers (3.10 miles) in the future. Cost challenges remain a big question for space-based solar power projects. To generate about 1 gigawatt of power through this method requires solar panels equivalent to the area of a square measuring 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) on each side, an endeavor estimated to cost roughly $7 billion. Pros and Cons Space-based solar power has two massive benefits compared to setting up traditional solar panels on Earth. For one, vast areas of land wont be wasted by covering it with solar panels. Secondly, while Earth-based solar energy production can be affected by weather conditions, microwaves can pass through clouds, which would make for a stable supply of beamed-down power regardless of the time of day and weather. The process of converting electricity into microwaves in space and then converting these microwaves into electricity at an Earth-based facility is said to be inefficient. The solar cells in space would also be under constant bombardment by micrometeorites, thus risking significant damage. By the end life of these cells, their disposal, which would potentially litter space with more debris, raises concerns. Other Projects Japan isnt the only nation pursuing space-based solar power projects. In July 2022, the UK government announced funding for such initiatives after an engineering study concluded that the technology was viable. In the United States, a project called the Space Solar Power Incremental Demonstrations and Research (SSPIDR) is being conducted by the Air Force Research Laboratory thats exploring critical technologies required for space-based solar power. China is looking at space-based solar power as well, with a state-funded prototype program established in 2019. Beijing plans to hold a demonstration of a 100-kilowatt system in low Earth orbit in 2025. By 2030, the county intends to set up a space-based solar power station in geostationary Earth orbit at a height of 36,000 kilometers (22,369 miles). In Europe, the European Commission is funding research activity on space solar reflectors. The project involves using large, lightweight reflectors to redirect sunlight to utility-scale solar power farms on Earth. Johnstons Proposal on Hearings Shows Lack of Understanding of Targeted Chinese Groups, MPs Hear David Johnston, Independent Special Rapporteur on Foreign Interference, presents his first report in Ottawa on May 23, 2023. (The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick) Special Rapporteur David Johnstons intent to hold public hearings with the diaspora on the issue of foreign interference shows a lack of understanding of the targeted communities, a China expert told a House of Commons committee on May 30. Hes not got a deep China experience, or a deep security experience to bring to it. He looked at it for two months, and in that two months he concluded that there should be public hearings of the diaspora, said Margaret McCuaig-Johnston. So he doesnt understand the diaspora would never want that. And so that suggests that he doesnt have that understanding of whats happening, the dynamic thats happening in the communities out there of Chinese Canadians. McCuaig-Johnston, a China expert and senior fellow at the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs of the University of Ottawa, was testifying before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs (PROC). The committee has been studying foreign interference since November and has recently been given the mandate by the House to investigate the targeting of MPs by the Chinese regime. In dismissing the need or feasibility of holding a public inquiry over security concerns, Johnstons report says he would instead hold public hearings with Canadians, especially from diaspora communities, on how the government can improve its fight against foreign interference. The Uyghurs, Tibetans, Falun Gong, pro-democracy Hong Kongers, and human rights activists would be more targeted if they spoke in public hearings, said McCuaig-Johnston. She added those groups views are already well known and they have long called for stronger investigative powers against the threat and the need for a foreign agent registry but without success. The federal government launched consultations on establishing a registry in recent weeks after mounting pressure due to multiple national security leaks in the press depicting widespread interference by Beijing. Government Inaction Mehmet Tohti, executive director for the Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project, told The Epoch Time he agrees with McCuaig-Johnston. He says the government already knows very well the concerns of communities targeted by the Chinese regime. About the public hearings, Tohti says theres nothing left that hasnt been said and theres no point for repeating the information again and again. He also said Johnston should have consulted with the targeted communities before making a recommendation against holding a public inquiry, adding that his report vindicated government inaction on foreign interference. McCuaig-Johnston, a former assistant deputy minister in the federal government, also criticized aspects of Johnstons report tabled on May 23 and his recommendation not to hold a public inquiry. She said she initially publicly supported his March 15 appointment as special rapporteur. I thought that, among all Canadians, he would be one of the most concerned about the threats to our democracy posed by China, McCuaig-Johnston said. I was therefore extremely surprised and disappointed with his dismissal of an independent public inquiry. Opposition parties in the House of Commons unanimously voted in favour of an NDP motion on May 31 calling for Johnston to step down from his role of rapporteur, with the motion being adopted with a majority in the House of Commons. The motion is non-binding but it signals to the Liberal government and Johnston that a majority of elected representatives do not support going forward with the current arrangement. The government ignored a previous motion calling for holding a public inquiry on foreign interference and instead appointed Johnston as rapporteur. Judge Considers Tossing Clinton Foundation Whistleblower Case After Durham Report Revelations Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton speaks during a panel at the Vital Voices Global Festival in Washington on May 5, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times) A federal judge is weighing whether to throw out a case against the IRS that alleges the Clinton Foundation violated federal law and should have its tax-exempt status revoked. U.S. Tax Court Judge David Gustafson on May 30 asked the government and experts who brought a whistleblower claim to the IRS based on a years-long investigation of the foundation to submit additional filings in light of recent developments in other cases. Rulings in those cases may affect the parties positions as to the pending motions, Gustafson wrote in a brief order (pdf), which was first reported by Just the News. We will order further filings so that the parties may address those recent opinions, he added. Those opinions include an appeals court ruling (pdf) in favor of the government in a case brought by a whistleblower who offered what he said was evidence a company was not paying enough taxes. John Moynihan, a former federal agent, and Lawrence Doyle, a tax expert, brought evidence to the IRS in 2017 that they say shows the Clinton Foundation violated U.S. law by acting as a foreign agent without registering as one. The IRS denied the claims after interviewing one of the people cited and determining the evidence was not credible due to the persons denials. An appeal of the determination was turned down, prompting Moynihan and Doyle to take the matter to U.S. Tax Court. The government tried convincing Gustafson to toss the case, but in a 2020 ruling, he rejected the bid, finding that the IRSs whistleblowers office had abused its discretion by making unsupported statements in its determination. A new motion to dismiss the case for lack of jurisdiction was lodged in 2022 and is currently under consideration. The motion and an opposition filing from Moynihan and Doyle were not available on the court docket. In addition to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit opinion in Villa-Arce v. Commissioner, Gustafson referenced two other rulings: A ruling (pdf) by the same court found that the tax court had jurisdiction to consider a whistleblower claim but that the court correctly threw out a case brought by a whistleblower. A ruling (pdf) by the tax court found that the IRS appeared to correctly deny a whistleblower award to a man who was interviewed during an investigation. Moynihan and Doyle did not return requests for comment. The IRS and the U.S. Department of Justice did not respond to inquiries. Earlier Testimony Appearing before Congress in 2018, Moynihan and Doyle said they uncovered evidence indicating the Clinton Foundation violated the law. The foundation began acting as an agent of foreign governments throughout its life and continues to do so. As such, they should have registered under FARA, or the Foreign Agents Registration Act, Doyle said. The foundation also intentionally misused funds from donors, Moynihan said. The investigation clearly demonstrates the foundation was not a charitable organization, per se, but, point of fact, was a closely held family partnership. As such, it was governed in a fashion in which it sought in large measure to advance the personal interests of its principals, he said. The violations mean the foundation should no longer be entitled to its tax-exempt privileges, the experts said. The Clinton Foundation did not respond to a request for comment. A spokesperson told The Hill when the claim was first sent to the IRS that the foundation has been subjected to outrageous, politically motivated allegations that have been proven false time and time again. WikiLeaks Files obtained and published by WikiLeaks revealed that the foundation was audited multiple times. One of the auditor reports said the foundation was missing several policies/procedures that are required by law and that there is no established mechanism for catching problems and mistakes. Another (pdf) said that some employees were unaware of policies on conflicts of interest and outside employment and recommended implementing a clear gift acceptance policy and procedures to ensure that all donors are properly vetted. Former President Bill Clintons top aide, Douglas Band, wrote in one email that the ex-president received income and many expensive gifts from some of the foundations donors. Some of the foundations employees told auditors that donors may have an expectation of quid pro quo benefits in return for [a] gift. Recent Developments The new order came after special counsel John Durhams report revealed that FBI agents launched three probes ahead of the 2016 election into the Clinton Foundation, acting on allegations the foundation had carried out criminal activities. Top officials tried to shut down the probes but relented after receiving pushback. They still ordered agents to get approval before taking any overt investigative steps. The investigations were ultimately consolidated in Arkansas and ended after U.S. prosecutors there declined to file charges, according to another set of documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act. The Department of Justice declined to comment on the revelations. ANALYSIS: Ken Paxton Impeachment Highlights Divisions Among Texas Republicans Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton makes a statement at his office in Austin, Texas, on May 26, 2023. (Eric Gay/AP Photo) The impeachment of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has highlighted the divisions among members of the Republican Party of Texas. The Republican-controlled House on May 27 voted to impeach Paxton, sending 20 articles of impeachment to the state Senate. The House needed a simple majority of its 149 members to move forward with the impeachment, and 60 of the 85 House Republicans voted with Democrats in a final vote of 12123. The House impeachment process was absolutely political targeting, and the House General Investigating Committee process was flawed and despicable, Republican state Rep. Tony Tinderholt said during a May 30 interview on Newsmax. The accusations against Paxton include misuse of official powers, bribery, and abuse of public trust. The 60-year-old, who has been under federal investigation, was elected to a third term in November. A Divided House Paxtons supporters have denounced the impeachment, some calling it a sham railroading of a political enemy. I oppose the impeachment of AG #Paxton; not because I am convinced of his innocence, but because #texlege House leadership made no attempt to adequately document his guilt not to demonstrate that this is anything other than a sham railroading of a political enemy, Republican state Rep. Brian Harrison wrote on Twitter. Tinderholt, who also voted against the impeachment, shares Harrisons sentiment, describing it as definitely a Democrat-led attack on the attorney general. There was no due process. The attorney general was never afforded the opportunity to defend himself like historically has happened, he continued. I trust the Senate. I think theyre going to look into it. Theyre going to take it very seriously, but sadly, I dont think that the House took it seriously. They didnt give due process. Tinderholt said it can be difficult for members to vote against the speaker, but some in the House were strong enough to do it, adding that his vote was not about whether Paxton is guilty or innocent but rather the flaws in the process. Its truly shocking that not a single person from Ken Paxtons office was ever questioned about this proceeding. Can you imagine any investigation in which the suspect isnt once questioned, and when his attorney asks to bring testimony to investigators, hes turned away? I cant. I voted against this resolution. Process matters, especially in such an important undertaking, Tinderholt wrote on Facebook following the House impeachment vote. The committee spent more than two months secretly investigating the allegations against Paxton. The investigation came to light just hours after Paxton called for Republican House Speaker Dade Phelans resignation for allegedly being drunk while presiding on the floor. This will go down in history as an embarrassing thing that the Texas House did, Tinderholt added. Phelans office has not addressed Paxtons claims of the speakers misconduct. Texas Speaker of the House Dade Phelan in the House Chamber at the Texas Capitol in Austin, Texas, on May 26, 2023. (Eric Gay/AP Photo) Concerns About Impeachment Process State Rep. Matt Schaefer, who also voted against impeachment, expressed grave concerns regarding the impeachment process in a lengthy statement on Twitter ahead of the vote. House members were not provided with transcripts of witness interviews or substantiating documents, according to Schaefer. To be clear, the full Texas House has not heard any testimony from witnesses, nor have we been provided transcripts of such testimony. As I write this, I cannot determine whether those witnesses were under oath when they were interviewed by staff. I asked two members of the committee, and they did not know the answer, he wrote. Furthermore, it is the stated intent of Speaker Phelan and Chairman Murr that no direct evidence will be provided to the full House when the articles of impeachment are called up for consideration. Texas Government Code Sec. 665.005 states that the full house may compel testimony. The only transcript that has been provided to the full House was the transcript of staff members of the General Investigating Committee presenting an account of their findings to the committee on May 24th, 2023. Political considerations seem to be involved. Schaefer said that although he opposed Paxtons reelection during the primary and even called out the attorney generals very serious and moral and legal failings, he could not vote in favor of impeachment because the House failed in its process on the matter. But if it is right to impeach Ken Paxton, it is being done in the wrong way, Schaefer wrote. I cannot vote to impeach when the members of the full House have had no direct access to witnesses or supporting documents and have had no time to properly prepare and understand the matters in question. The simple truth is that the evidentiary basis to impeach Attorney General Paxton has not been properly established. Process matters. Party Leader Weighs In Republican Party of Texas Chair Matt Rinaldi said Phelan has worked to stop the conservative direction of the state by appointing Democrats to high-ranking leadership positions and battling conservative leaders to kill Gov. Greg Abbotts top priorities this legislative session. The impeachment proceedings against the Attorney General are but the latest front in the Texas Houses war against Republicans to stop the conservative direction of our state, Rinaldi wrote in a statement. This sham impeachment is the result of the Phelan leadership team empowering Democrats, allowing them to hold leadership positions and control the agenda. It is based on allegations already litigated by voters, led by a liberal Speaker trying to undermine his adversaries, and investigated by lawyers connected to a Democrat on the House General Investigations Committee, he continued. While the party was able to pass some conservative priorities, it could not come to agreements on property taxes, border security, and school choice, among other priorities Gov. Greg Abbott set for the session, which ended May 29. Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick speaks at a press conference on the border wall at the state Capitol in Austin, Texas, on June 16, 2021. (Mei Zhong/The Epoch Times) Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick wrote on Twitter on May 29 that Phelan left a meeting in a huff the night before with himself and Abbott, killing the largest property tax cut in history by demanding an appraisal cap for business commercial properties that most business associations dont even want. When asked how this new cap would be paid for, he said schools should spend less money. And then he said, in a special session, he was taking the $100k Homestead Exemption off the table, reversing his members vote of 1470, Patrick continued. Today, even before a special session has been called, the House pulled the $100k Homestead Exemption they bragged about just a week ago off the table for only compression. I will not back down from giving homeowners a $100k Homestead Exemption & getting Texas the biggest tax cut in history. Less than two hours later, Abbott announced that the Texas Legislature would convene for an immediate special session with an agenda to cut property taxes and crack down on human smuggling. More sessions are expected. Impeachment Supporters Among the 60 Republicans who voted in favor of Paxtons impeachment were five who represent Collin County, home to Paxton and his wife, state Sen. Angela Paxton. Reps. Jeff Leach, Matt Shaheen, Justin Holland, Candy Noble, and Frederick Frazier said in a joint statement that it was an incredibly difficult vote as, for most of us, Ken has been a longtime friend. And without question, Ken has been an aggressive and effective warrior defending Texans against federal overreach, the lawmakers wrote. Because of that, this was a vote we wish we didnt have to make and a vote we did not take lightly. The group said the committee provided enough evidence to commend articles of impeachment. [A]after hours of review and deliberationand upon a thorough analysis of the relevant lawit became clear to us that sufficient evidence indeed exists to vote to commend articles of impeachment to the Texas Senate for a full trial. The United States and Texas state flags fly outside the state Capitol building in Austin, Texas, on July 12, 2021. (Sergio Flores/Getty Images) Senate Trial The Texas Senate agreed to start the impeachment trial no later than Aug. 28. On May 29, the House selected a Republican-majority board of managers to prosecute the impeachment case. We will manage this process with the weight and reference that it deserves and requires, state Rep. Andrew Murr, chair of the board of impeachment managers, said during a news conference. This is about facts and the evidence. It is not about politics. State Rep. Ann Johnson will work with Murr in leading the board of managers. Murr is chair of the House General Investigating Committee that recommended impeachment, and Johnson is vice chair. The other managers are Republican Reps. Charlie Geren, Jeff Leach, Morgan Meyer, Briscoe Cain, Cody Vasut, David Spiller, and Democrat Reps. Joe Moody, Terry Canales, Oscar Longoria, and Erin Gamez. Patrick appointed a seven-member committee to prepare recommendations on the rules of the procedure for the trial. The recommendations will be presented to the full Senate on June 20. Republican Sen. Brian Birdwell will serve as committee chair, while Democrat Sen. Juan Chuy Hinojosa will serve as vice chair. Other members include Sens. Brandon Creighton, Pete Flores, Joan Huffman, Phil King, and Royce West. The lieutenant governor will choose the trial date not later than Aug. 28 for the chamber to convene as a court of impeachment. Today, the Texas Senate received Articles of Impeachment for Attorney General Ken Paxton. The Senate will follow its constitutional duty, and I appointed a committee to develop proposed rules and procedures for the matter, Patrick said in a news release on May 29. When the rules are drafted, a date will be set for when the Senate will resolve into a court of impeachment to consider the articles. Removal from office would require a two-thirds majority of the Senate, which has 31 members: 19 Republicans, including Angela Paxton, and 12 Democrats. It is unclear whether Angela Paxton has plans to recuse herself from the trial. Liberal and NDP MPs Oppose Motion to Cut Governor Generals Salary Gov. Gen. Mary Simon delivers the throne speech in the Senate in Ottawa on Nov. 23, 2021. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld) Liberal and NDP MPs have opposed a proposed budget amendment that would reduce Gov. Gen. Mary Simons funding. Conservative MP Kelly Block sponsored the motion after accusing Rideau Hall of living extravagantly while Canadians turn to food banks amid cost-of-living pressures, according to Blacklocks Reporter. One in five Canadians are skipping meals because food is too expensive. Just this week, the food bank in Saskatoon held a food drive as usage is higher than its ever been, Block told the House of Commons government operations committee on May 29. Irresponsible spending by the Office of the Governor General has caused outrage. Thats our job, to hold departments accountable, and this is one way we can do it, she added. The governor general has shown a lack of respect for taxpayers, the Canadians she is meant to represent. The job for which she has been tasked has become a means to expense an extravagant lifestyle. Block made the remarks during the committees debate on Main Estimates, a budget document proposing to spend $24.3 million at Rideau Hall in 2023. Block sponsored a motion that called for the appropriation to be reduced by $136,986. The proposed amount is equivalent to Simons charges for 16 months worth of clothing expenses. It would also include the in-flight catering she received during a 2022 trip to Dubai, which cost over $100,000. Block noted Simon is currently paid a salary of $324,173 a year. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the base salary for the position increased from $302,800 per year in 2019 to $342,100 in 2022. The governor generals extravagance is obviously something Canadians find unacceptable and we as members of Parliament must act to curtail this outrageous extravagance, Block said. Bloc Quebecois MP Julie Vignola supported the motion, calling Simons spending abusive, and said that if it were up to her, we could establish a republic that had no governor general. Conservative MP Michael Barrett said, God save the King. That being said, I think the Governor General could save some money. Liberal and New Democrat MPs opposed the motion. The committee adjourned debate without voting on the proposed budget cut. I would like to learn more, said NDP MP Gord Johns. This is simply a proposal to arbitrarily cut an amount in a budget without having studied this properly, said Liberal MP Anthony Housefather. Subscription to paid content Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card. Malaysia Authority Says 1MDB Fugitive Jho Low Hiding in Macau: Report Jynwel Capital Limited CEO Jho Low attends the 2014 Social Good Summit at 92Y in New York City on Sept. 21, 2014. (Taylor Hill/Getty Images) Malaysias anti-graft agency has revealed that Jho Low, the Malaysian financier wanted for his role in the multi-billion-dollar 1MDB scandal, is currently hiding in Macau. The financier, whose full name is Low Taek Jho, has been a fugitive since 2015 when investigations into the theft of billions of dollars from Malaysias sovereign wealth fund 1MDB were launched. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) told Al Jazeera on Tuesday that individuals wanted in the 1MDB graft case, particularly Jho Low, are believed to be hiding in Macau. This was also confirmed by several individuals who have seen Jho Low in Macau, the news outlet quoted the MACC as saying. The MACC made the remarks just weeks after detaining Kee Kok Thiam, a Malaysian associate of Low and a suspect in the 1MDB case, who it said was deported from Macau for overstaying his visa. MACC officers interrogated Kee upon his arrival in Malaysia on May 3, during which Kee confirmed that he had met Low and several other 1MDB fugitives in Macau. He also claimed that Low had asked him not to testify in the case. The commission released Kee as no charges had been brought against him and said that its investigation of Kee was focused on his assets in Singapore, which has been completed and submitted to the attorney general. Reports of Kees death broke just weeks after his release. According to his lawyers, the 56-year-old man died in a hospital on May 29 after suffering a sudden massive stroke, The Star reported. China Holding Low On Tight Leash 1MDB is a Malaysian wealth fund founded by Malaysias former Prime Minister Najib Razak while he was in power in 2009 to fund economic development projects. U.S. investigators found that about $4.5 billion was stolen from the fund and laundered by Najibs cronies. Low, who was suspected mastermind of the scheme, has maintained his innocence. Malaysian authorities have revoked his passport, issued an arrest demand, and applied for an Interpol red alert against him. Meanwhile, author Bradley Hope said he believes that Low is under house arrest in Shanghai. Hope is the co-writer of the book Billion Dollar Whale released in 2018, which chronicled the 1MDB saga. Hope stated that Low was in Macau, Hong Kong, the Chinese city of Shenzhen, and Thailand between 2015 and 2018. But after the electoral defeat of Najib in May 2018, his movements have become more restricted to the mainland, he added. China is holding Jho on a tight leash because of negotiations with Malaysia but also because his patrons in the spy services (Sun Lijun) are arrested and business partners at CCCC ousted, he stated on Twitter, referring to the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC). Malaysian police had said in 2018 that Low was believed to have left Macau for an unknown destination, citing an email from Macau authorities. The Macau Judiciary Police confirmed at the time that they had sent a response to Malaysia but would not disclose personal entry and exit information. On April 20, Hope stated on the Whale Hunting website that Malaysias government was believed to have been in talks with China over Lows extradition. He cited sources indicating that such an arrangement was being discussed following Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahims trip to China in March. His sources claimed that Anwarmet with high-level government officials and CCCC representatives during his visit. When Najib lost the election and Malaysian investigators powered up, suddenly Jho became a liability of the worst kind. Those same investigators found all the minutes of the Jho-Najib-China discussions in the house of one of Najibs minions. Those same papers suggested Malaysia was asking China to spy on Tom Wright in Hong Kong, he stated. Najib is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence for criminal breach of trust, abuse of power, and money laundering in relation to the 1MDB scandal. Reuters and the Associated Press contributed to this report. Man, 2 Children Found Dead in Indiana Home With High Carbon Monoxide Levels A home on Ash Avenue where police found at least two bodies buried in the basement in Hammond, Ind., on Dec. 10, 2003. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images) MUNCIE, Ind.Authorities investigating the deaths of a man and two children whose bodies were found in an Indiana home said firefighters detected high carbon monoxide levels inside the residence. The bodies of the 24-year-old man, a 3-year-old boy, and a 21-month-old girl were found Sunday afternoon in the home in the city of Muncie. Delaware County Coroner Gavin Greene announced on Monday the firefighters findings, The Star Press reported. Carbon monoxide is a toxic, odorless gas. Autopsies were conducted Monday on the three victims, but Greene said the death investigation is ongoing, pending toxicology results and a pathologists findings. Deputy Police Chief Melissa Criswell said city police and fire personnel were also investigating the deaths in Muncie, which is located about 60 miles (100 kilometers) northeast of Indianapolis. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy issued a warning to FBI Director Christopher Wray, threatening to hold the director in contempt of Congress. The high-stakes debt ceiling deal faces its first battle in Congress. The White House calls for support, while some conservatives call it a deal that has completely failed. The United States sanctions individuals in China and Mexico. The entities are being accused of enabling counterfeit, fentanyl-laced pill production. U.S. home prices rose slightly in March, but where could the housing market go from here? An expert joins us to explore the trends. Mendicino Testifies on Bill That Would Create Independent Review Body for RCMP, CBSA Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino speaks in the Foyer of the House of Commons in Ottawa on April 26, 2023. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld) Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino testified Tuesday on a bill that would address anti-black and anti-indigenous racism in policing and the justice system by establishing an independent review body for the RCMP and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Mendicino said Bill C-20, which was tabled in the House of Commons on June 21, 2022, will establish the Public Complaints and Review Commission (PCRC) as an independent civilian review body for the RCMP and CBSA. He noted that the CBSA, which interacts with over 100 million people every year, is the only enforcement agency in the public safety portfolio without any external independent review. We know that racialized and indigenous Canadians are vastly overrepresented in prisons interact more frequently with law enforcement, and are disproportionately subjected to bias and even profiling, Mendicino told the standing committee on public safety and national security. As representatives of our constituents and a voice for all Canadians, we have a duty to address these legacies and that is precisely why we have tabled Bill C-20. Mendicino said Bill C-20 would establish the Public Complaints and Review Commission (PCRC) as an independent civilian review body for the RCMP and CBSA. He noted that the CBSA, which interacts with over 100 million people every year, is the only enforcement agency in the public safety portfolio without any external independent review. Oversight and review is long overdue for this organization. C-20 would close that long-standing gap through the PCRC complainants would now have access to an external body that could independently initiate a review and investigate CBSA conduct, Mendicino said. The PCRC would review and investigate any flagged, non-national security RCMP activity and report its findings and recommendations to the RCMP commissioner, he said. Mendicino said the bill would also enact a requirement for the PCRC to implement public education and information programs to raise public awareness of the commissions mandate and individual rights to redress, as well as impose a new authority to recommend that the RCMP commissioner and CBSA president initiate disciplinary proceedings or impose measures. He noted that the introduction of C-20 responded to the findings of the Mass Casualty Commission created after the 2020 Nova Scotia Massacre, which recommended the creation of more transparent reporting for federal law enforcement agencies. Theres still a lot of work to do to respond to the Commissions final report, but we have shown our commitment to create change, he said. Mendicino said Bill C-20 will also enact the collection of disaggregated, race-based data in order to identify trends and address what he claimed is entrenched systemic racism within Canadas institutions. According to an internal CBSA report from 2022, one-quarter of front-line employees surveyed in March 2020 said they had directly witnessed a colleague discriminate against a traveller in the previous two years, while 71 percent of those respondents said the discrimination was based on race. In response to a question by Liberal MP Taleeb Noormohamed, Mendicino said the collection of the data will help the RCMP and CBSA to identify not only where those issues linger, but whether or not were making progress. He said this will help to reduce systemic barriers so that everyone is treated equally and fairly. Tory MPs Question Review Bodys Independence Conservative MP Glen Motz asked Mendicino how the PCRC would differ from the current civilian process and how the commission would have the capacity to handle all the complaints. He questioned whether the RCMP and CBSA would still be required to investigate their own members for issues such as inappropriate comments or attitudes, which he considered less significant than instances of improper use of force. Mendicino responded that legislation represents a marked departure from the current system, creating an enhanced external review process for the agencies while also giving more transparency around timelines and turnarounds for the processing of complaints. Conservative MP and shadow public safety minister Raquel Dancho said the National Police Federation expressed concerns that Bill C-20 would not make the commission fully independent from RCMP officers, meaning police officers would continue to have to investigate their colleagues when complaints are made. Mendicino said that the provincial disciplinary processes should not be seen as being mutually exclusive to the work of the PCRC. What this creation of this commission does, is it gives Canadians yet another avenue in which they can submit complaints to this commission, which will be made up of independent civilian members who will then look into the conduct and then make recommendations that could touch on discipline, he said. Moscow Claims Ukrainian Military Intelligence HQ Hit by Russian Strike Smoke billows from a building heavily damaged by Russian drone strikes in the town of Rzhyshchiv, in Kyiv region, Ukraine, on March 22, 2023. (Press service of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine/Via Reuters) Recent Russian barrages near Kyiv included a successful strike on the headquarters of Ukraines military intelligence apparatus, Russian officialsincluding President Vladimir Putinhave said. We have already mentioned the possibility of strikes targeting decision-making headquarters and centers, Putin said on May 30. The Ukrainian military intelligence headquarters, which was hit two or three days ago, falls into this category, he told reporters while visiting a cultural center in Moscow. Earlier the same day, the Russian Defense Ministry said in its daily briefing that its forces had carried out multiple strikes on central decision-making points where terrorist attacks against Russian territory were being planned under the guidance of Western intelligence experts. A specialist inspects the damaged facade of a multi-story apartment building after a reported drone attack in Moscow on May 30, 2023. (Kirill Kudryavtsev/AFP via Getty Images) While the ministry didnt disclose the number or locations of the decision-making points in question, it claimed that all designated targets had been hit. Nor did the ministry provide further details about the Western intelligence experts, who, it alleged, were helping Kyiv stage attacks inside Russian territory. As of press time, Ukrainian officials had yet to respond to the allegations. A U.S. State Department spokesperson told The Epoch Times: We would refer you to the Government of Ukraine for comment on Russias claims to have hit Ukraines military intelligence headquarters. As a general matter, we do not support attacks inside of Russia, the spokesperson said. We have been focused on providing Ukraines forces with the equipment and training they need to retake their own sovereign territory, and thats exactly what weve done. The United States was not involved and had nothing to do with this, the spokesperson added in reference to recent attacks inside Russia. Very Effective Strike The assertions by Putin and the Defense Ministry followed a May 30 drone attack in central Moscow that damaged several residential buildings but didnt cause casualties. According to Russian military officials, the attack involved a total of eight combat drones, all of which were neutralized before reaching their targets. Moscow was quick to blame Kyiv for the incident, which it later described as a terrorist attack. However, evidence implicating Ukraineor its allieshas yet to be produced. Kyiv, meanwhile, has denied any involvement, although some Ukrainian officials hailed the attackthe second such incident in less than a month. An explosion of a drone in the sky over the city during a Russian drone strike in Kyiv, Ukraine, on May 28, 2023. (Gleb Garanich/Reuters) On May 2, the Kremlin itself came under attack by two aerial drones, both of which failed to cause human or material damage. Shortly after the latest attack in Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claimed that the assault had come in response to a successful Russian strike on a high-value Ukrainian target. What we saw [in Moscow] was the Kyiv regimes reaction to our very effective strike against one of their decision-making centers, Peskov told reporters. In line with Putins subsequent statement, Peskov claimed that the very effective strike had occurred on May 28. He didnt provide any details regarding the location or nature of the alleged target. Ukraine Under Fire Over the past three days, Ukraine has been subject to some of the most extensive bombardmentsby both drones and artillerysince Russia started its invasion in February 2022. Speaking on Telegram, Serhiy Popko, the head of Kyivs military administration, said the city had been subject to massive barrages from different directions in several waves. A spokeswoman for Ukraines southern military command said the strikes were aimed at exhausting Ukrainian air defenses and defenders physical and moral strength. Satellite image of a field hospital and a troop deployment in Belgorod, Russia, on Feb. 21, 2022. (Courtesy of Satellite image 2022 Maxar Technologies/Handout via Reuters) Moscow, meanwhile, claims that the strikes were confined solely to military targets. It also claims to be using precision munitions in order to minimize civilian casualties. We are striking at the territory of Ukraine with long-range precision weapons, at military infrastructure facilities only, Putin said recently. After the strikes had subsided on the evening of May 30, Kyiv announced that one person had been killed by falling debris from an intercepted projectile. Cross-Border Attacks Recent artillery strikes, however, have not all been in one direction. On May 31, Ukrainian forces shelled the town of Shebekino, in Russias western Belgorod region, injuring four people and damaging buildings, according to local authorities. Speaking on Telegram, Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said that two industrial facilities in the townlocated 4.5 miles from Ukraines borderhad been hit the previous day. Ukrainian officials have yet to respond to Gladkovs claims. On May 22, pro-Ukrainian forces staged a large-scale assault, involving drones and artillery, on several districts of Belgorod. Russias western Bryansk region was the target of a similar cross-border attack in March. Reuters contributed to this report. NASA: Up to 5 Percent of UFO Sightings Cant Be Explained Data quality and 'stigma' present challenges to scientific investigation A still from GO FAST, an official U.S. government video of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), taken in 2015. (U.S. Navy) NASA says that somewhere between 2 and 5 percent of unidentified flying object (UFO) sightings cant be easily explained. On May 31, NASA held a 16-member panel discussion about what it described as unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP), an alternative rendering of what most in the public refer to as UFOs. The discourse, led by astrophysicist David Spergel, comes as NASA prepares a report on UAPs that it hopes to release by the end of July. While the UAP term can technically be applied to any unexplained sighting on land and sea, or in space, panelists said that all reports so far have come from within the earths atmosphere at altitudes flown by military and commercial aircraft. In recent years for subjects of unidentified aerial phenomena, nowadays termed unidentified anomalous phenomena, or UAPs, has captured the attention of the public, the scientific community and the government alike, said Dan Evans, assistant deputy associate administrator for research at NASA, who introduced the panel. Its now our collective responsibility to investigate these occurrences with a rigorous scientific scrutiny that they deserve. NASA mounted a dedicated investigation into UAP sightings in June 2022, after a substantial uptick in public interest in the phenomena when the government released formerly classified videos showing fast-moving spherical aircraft that demonstrated capabilities well beyond current technology. For example, a panelist pointed to an instance of one such craft maneuvering against the wind at Mach 2 speed. One of the most recent incidents of a UAP exhibiting remarkable technological feats was captured during a 2022 incident in the Middle East, which displays a quick moving spherical aircraft maneuvering quickly at a relatively low altitude. The craft, like many of its kind, resembles no known aircraft today. The Pentagon has officially released three short videos showing unidentified aerial phenomena that had previously been released by a private company. (Courtesy of Department of Defense) National Security Concerns UAPs have also raised national security concerns. During a 2021 incident in California, several people reported seeing a V-shaped array of aircraft hovering above a military base. UAPs raise concerns about the safety of our skies, Evans said. And its this nations obligation to determine whether these phenomena pose any potential risks to airspace safety. Similar incidents have been recorded at various nuclear military facilities, with some reports of nuclear warheads having been disabled by the unknown aircraft; reports of such incidents date back to the 1960s. Air Force vets have recounted experiences of as many as 10 U.S. nuclear warheads being disabled during tests in the 1960s, with no explanation. But despite U.S. and NASA investigation into the matter, as many as 5 percent of these incidents cannot be explained by mundane interpretations, said panelist Sean McMorrow, associate director for mission support at NASAs Armstrong Flight Research Center. The numbers I would say that we see that are possibly really anomalous are less than single-digit percentages of those in that total database [of reported sightings], so maybe two to five-ish percent, McMorrow said. Many sightings can be explained as mundane, he said. As an example, he offered one instance where a commercial flight was misidentified as a UAP due to pilot error. Only a very small percentage of UAP reports display signatures that could reasonably be described as anomalous,' McMorrow said. The majority of unidentified objects reported demonstrate mundane characteristics of readily explainable sources. Others are less easily explained, however. Citing the recently disclosed Middle East incident, McMorrow said, This is a typical example of the thing that we see most often. We see these all over the world and we see these making very interesting apparent maneuvers. The vast majority of what has been reported and what we have data ona little less than half noware orbs, round spheres. NASA experts provided no explanation of the phenomena, saying the agencys role is not to resolve the nature of these events. Rather, said Spergel, NASAs role is to use its unique capabilities, and its role as a civilian agency, interacting with the scientific community in an open and transparent manner. At the moment, existing data and eyewitness reports alone are insufficient to provide conclusive evidence about the nature and origin of every UAP event, he said. Challenges Even in this more limited scope task, Spergel and others said, there have been challenges due to both data quality issues and a stigma surrounding the issue. The current data collection efforts regarding UAPs are unsystematic and fragmented across various agencies, often using instruments uncalibrated for scientific data collection, Spergel said. And we face, looking through this data, a significant background. A background of many of these events are commercial aircraft, civilian American military, drones, weather and research balloons, military equipment, ionospheric phenomenon. Adding to this are challenges that many peoplecivilians and pilots alikestill may feel uncomfortable reporting sightings of UAPs. Evans, Spergel, and NASA Associate Administrator Nicola Fox each also addressed the ways that stigma around UAPs makes investigation difficult. Until recently, UAPs and UFOs have been treated as the domain of conspiracy theories, and have run contrary to established narratives. Now, just because the government is taking the matter seriously, that stigma hasnt disappeared. Several panelists took a moment to address threats, including death threats, leveled against them for their scientific investigation into the issue. This kind of harassment, Fox said, only leads to further stigmatization of the UAP field, significantly hindering the scientific progress and discouraging others to study this important subject matter. Spergel noted that commercial pilots particularly may feel uncomfortable relating sightings of possible UAPs out of concern for their careers or social image. Theres a real stigma among people about reporting events, Spergel said. And despite NASAs extensive efforts to reduce the stigma, the origin of UAPs is unclear. And we feel many events remain unreported One of our goals in having NASA play a role is to remove stigma and get high quality data. Investigation into the matter is still in its infancy, and as yet much remains unexplained. Spergel warned that the nature of the subject means that even if issues with data and stigmas are addressed, theres no guarantee that all sightings will be explained. Many have taken the sightings as an indication that we may not be alone in the universe, due to the advanced capabilities displayed by the small percentage of crafts that remain inexplicable. Others have taken a more terrestrial approach to the craft, fearing they may be an advanced prototype of the Chinese or Russian militaries. Whatever their origin, the U.S. government is increasingly taking the matter seriously as a possible threat to U.S. national security and technological supremacy. In 2022, the National Defense Authorization Act addressed the issue, instituting new protections to safeguard whistleblowers reporting sightings of such aircraft. Nebraskas Governor Signs School Choice Measure Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen poses with children holding up signs promoting school choice at the state's capitol building on May 30, 2023. (Courtesy Nebraska Office of the Governor) Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen on May 30 signed legislation that implements the states first school choice program, which supporters say will help meet the needs of students. Nebraska joins 48 other U.S. states that have some form of school choice policy; Texas is the lone state without one. The Nebraska Legislature passed the bill in a 3311 vote last week. The new lawLB 753 (pdf)takes effect 90 days after the legislative session ends, which is around the end of August. LB 753 provides tax credits for scholarships, with priority for children in certain circumstances. This legislation is a historic step forward for the state of Nebraska, Pillen said in a statement. Our kids are our future, and we all believe that every Nebraska kid should have the opportunity to have their educational needs met, whether they live in Omaha or Scottsbluff. This law ensures that we are funding students, not systems. Pillen signed the measure into law at the states Capitol, accompanied by state senators, school choice advocacy representatives, and students. Priorities The programs highest priority includes students who received a scholarship in the previous year and students who are siblings of those who received a scholarship and live in the same household. The second priority is given to those whose household income doesnt exceed the poverty level. A similar level of priority is given to those who were previously denied from enrolling into another public school, who have an individualized education plan, or who are subject to bullying or other forms of harassment. Those who are in foster care or who have parents who are serving or died while serving in the military are also given second priority. The other three priorities are determined by household income that exceeds the poverty level. Dollar-for-Dollar Tax Credit Under the new law, people who donate to a scholarship-granting organization are eligible to receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit against their income tax. The limit is $100,000 or half of what the person owes in income taxes, whichever is lower. The legislation initially sets aside $25 million a year in tax credits from the general fund for 2024, 2025, and 2026. Thereafter, the annual limit will be updated and could rise to as much as $100 million, depending on the demand, after which no further increases will be allowed. A scholarship-granting organization is a charitable organization certified to provide tax-credit-supported scholarships to religious or private schools to help eligible students attend them. State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, who has long advocated for the new law and is a sponsor of LB 753, said in a statement that it will change lives by allowing children to attend schools that best fit their needs. Linehan said that state Sen. Justin Wayne has been essential to the passing of the legislation and has boldly and consistently put the best of interest of children before political gain. Wayne said in a statement: This is not an anti-public school bill. This is a pro-parent bill. This is a bill that gives parents an option to help them and to give their kid hope for their education. Opponents and Supporters Opponents of the new law have said the measure may threaten funding for public schools. One opponent, Stand for Schools, signaled disappointment. What Nebraskans have shown is a deep love for their school. Today is an unfortunate day in which senators werent listening to their districts, Dunixi Guereca, the groups executive director, said in a statement, per ABC affiliate KETV. He told the outlet the new law would benefit families that already have resources. These are folks that a lot of times are well-to-do individuals that already attend private schools. He added that the law may result in schools rejecting students, telling the outlet, What weve seen is that it actually increases discrimination and segregation in a lot of cases. Another group, Support Our Schools Nebraska, is seeking to get 60,000 signatures on a petition to put the legislation on the November ballot, reported NBC affiliate KSNB. The group has to wait until the legislative session is over before the petition can start. They said they have until Aug. 30 to submit the signed petition to the Nebraska Secretary of State to get the referendum on the ballot, the outlet reported. The American Federation for Children said that efforts from advocates and families to pass school choice legislation in Nebraska have faced stubborn resistance from special interest groupsin particular, the state teachers union, for more than a decade. Children and families won today in a long battle to tear down barriers to equal opportunity for a high-quality education that meets the unique needs of every child, Lauren Garcia, state director of the American Federation for ChildrenNebraska, said in a statement. We look forward to the work ahead to ensure this program thrives and serves the families in most need of another educational option. Other supporters of the legislation also cheered on the bill, with Clarice Jackson, the executive director of the Voice Advocacy Center, saying in a statement that the new program will give children an opportunity to get an education that best fits them in their academic lifetime. Tanya Santos, principal at Holy Name School, said in a statement that the legislation will give opportunity to Nebraska kids, regardless of their socioeconomic status and that many more parents will have the ability to choose the right educational fit for their children. Jeremy Ekeler, the associate director of education policy for the Nebraska Catholic Conference, said the measure means that more Nebraska parents have the opportunity to find the best school for their children. This is critical because kids get just one shot at an education. Nevada Governor Signs Bill Granting Abortion Access Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo has approved a bill that codifies an existing executive order related to abortion that blocks prosecutions for out-of-state residents who seek the procedure and in-state providers. The rare move positions Nevada as one of the only Republican-led states to enact such pro-abortion policies. Despite identifying as pro-life, Lombardo pledged to honor the 1990 referendum vote that granted abortion up to 24 weeks in Nevada. Lombardos decision to sign the law distinguishes him from most other Republican governors who have not sought similar pro-abortion policies. Most conservative-led states have moved to restrict abortion in the face of what theyve described as the Democrats extreme abortion policies. The legislation builds upon a previous executive order issued by former Gov. Steve Sisolak, a Democrat, which prohibits state agencies from aiding out-of-state investigations that might lead to the prosecution of abortion patients traveling to Nevada. The issue of the executive order became a significant point of contention during Lombardos closely contested reelection campaign in 2022. The new law also means that doctors providing abortions cant be penalized or disqualified by medical licensing boards and commissions. Initially, Lombardo expressed his intention to revoke the executive order, but later he reversed his stance and pledged to uphold it, a change that was highlighted by Sisolaks campaign. In February, Lombardo indicated his willingness to sign the bill, which does not introduce any additional provisions beyond what was already included in Sisolaks executive order. Elizabeth Ray, a spokeswoman for Lombardo, said in a statement that the governor had made a campaign commitment to ensure Nevada wouldnt prosecute women seeking abortions in the state. Today, Governor Lombardo kept that commitment, she said. Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro, a Democrat and the legislations sponsor, commended Lombardo. I want to thank [Lombardo] for following through on his commitment to ensuring that Nevada wont participate in prosecutions of women who come here to exercise their reproductive rights, Cannizzaro said. Several Democratic-controlled states, including California, Colorado, and Rhode Island, have enacted similar pro-abortion measures. Lombardo joins a small group of Republican governors, including Vermont Gov. Phil Scott and former Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, who have signed legislation that establishes pro-abortion policies. The vast majority of GOP governors share the partys anti-abortion platform. The Nevada Republican Party expressed dismay when two female Republican lawmakers joined Democrats in supporting the legislation during its advancement in the state Senate. Abortion Rates Fall In the last year, more than half of all U.S. states have moved to restrict abortions in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court returning decision-making power to the states. According to data in a report by WeCount (pdf), a pro-abortion research group, around 25 states have enacted laws limiting abortions after 15 weeks or even earlier. Among them, 15 states have opted for nearly complete bans on abortion, while eight states are awaiting court decisions before enforcing their laws owing to protests from pro-abortion groups. Some states have seen ongoing legal battles over newly implemented abortion restrictions. The report states that this has led to a situation where the legal status of abortion is being altered on a week-by-week basis, causing confusion and disruption in abortion provision. Abortions fell by 32,260 in states with active restrictions from July 2022 to December 2022, according to the data. In the six months following the Dobbs decision, the United States has experienced an average monthly reduction of 5,377 abortions. Although the decline in abortion numbers does not follow a linear pattern each month, there has been a consistent decrease from July to December, with fewer abortions reported compared to April 2022, the report states. On the other hand, pro-abortion states such as New York, Virginia, and New Jersey saw a slight increase in abortions per month following the Supreme Courts decision. During a press conference earlier this week, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America President Marjorie Dannenfelser touted the results of the past year and chastised those pushing for no limits on abortion. Literally half of the country has acted to protect unborn children and also to serve their mothers, while the left again has battled [against] every single step, every single inch, and against every single limit, no matter the gestational age of the unborn child, Dannenfelser said. This is what it looks like when democracy starts to get to work on such a profound human rights battle and the one of our time. The Associated Press contributed to this report. New Chicago Mayor Responds After Violent Memorial Day Weekend Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson speaks to guests after taking the oath of office in Chicago on May 15, 2023. (Scott Olson/Getty Images) Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson issued a statement on Tuesday condemning the citys most violent Memorial Day weekend on record, calling it intolerable. The weekend ended with 53 shooting victims and 12 murders, FOX 32 Chicago reported. Victims of the shootings range in age from 2 to 77 years, the Chicago Police Department (CPD) said. At least a dozen of them were fired at while standing on sidewalks late at night and into the early morning hours. The violence came close to Johnsons home when a man who lives across the street from the mayor was charged with stabbing a woman to death in South Austin, reported CBS. The violence our city experienced this weekend is intolerable. It produced pain and trauma that devastated communities across Chicago and my heart breaks for everyone affected, Johnson said in a statement. Thats why as mayor, I am committed to leveraging every single resource at our disposal to protect every single life in our city. Johnson thanked police officers, first responders, and city workers, among others, who tirelessly dedicated themselves to keeping Chicago safe, but acknowledged we have much more work to do. As a result of their efforts, thousands of Chicagoans and visitors enjoyed themselves safely at beaches, festivals, and neighborhood events across the city, he said. Tragically, however, too many others were unable to. But I know none of us will rest until every Chicagoan can safely enjoy all the beauty our city has to offer. A crime scene in a neighborhood in Chicago. (Scott Olson/Getty Images) In 2015, 12 people were killed during the holiday weekend. Last year, Chicago experienced a violent Memorial Day weekend, with 52 people shot and nine of them killed. We cant ask police officers to do everything, to solve all the problems. We cant ask just one elected official to solve all the problems. It really does take communities working together, 19th Police District Council Member Sam Schoenburg told ABC7. Ahead of the deadly holiday crime, Johnson and his interim police superintendent, Fred Waller, on May 25 unveiled a new plan to reduce violence across the city. During the press conference, Johnson and Walker highlighted some intensive patrol efforts, including that all officers would get one less day off this holiday weekend. But the centerpiece of this plan is a multi-million dollar investment in youth programs. Im talking about $3.5 million in grants to more than 250 community organizations to fund safe programming and activities for young people during the summer months, beginning Memorial Day, Johnson said. The public-private partnership will support violence prevention and youth outreach efforts across 24 communities on the South and West sides, beginning with engaging youth in activities during Memorial Day weekend and the gap between the end of the school year and the beginning of Chicago Park District programming, according to the mayors office. Johnson, who took office on May 15, inherited a police department with roughly 1,700 fewer officers than when his predecessor, Lori Lightfoot, started four years ago. The CPD, alongside many other departments across the United States, is hemorrhaging officers faster than it can find qualified applicants. Data suggests that it has lost more than 3,300 officers and staff between 2019 and 2022, but has hired 1,600 people to fill the vacancies left by those demoralized by the anti-police riots and calls to defund the police in the aftermath of George Floyds death. Bill Pan contributed to this report. No One Gets Everything They Want on Debt Ceiling Deal, Budget Director Says White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre (R) speaks as Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young looks on during the daily briefing at the White House on May 30, 2023. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 resulted from a good-faith effort on both sides of the negotiating table to hammer out a solution to the debt ceiling crisis that would avoid a default. Thats a good outcome, according to Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young, even though some may be disappointed with the result. This agreement represents a compromise, which means no one gets everything they want and hard choices had to be made. Negotiations require give and take. Thats the responsibility of governing, Young told reporters on May 30. Rank and File Complaints Young and Steve Ricchetti, a presidential adviser, met almost constantly over the past two weeks to find common ground with Rep. Garret Graves (R-La.) and Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.), who represented House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). When details of the plan were announced on May 28, it drew criticism from members of Congress who believed both President Joe Biden and McCarthy had given too much ground to their opposition. Some members of the House Freedom Caucus complained that McCarthy failed to leverage Republican unity to make extensive fiscal reforms. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) speaks to the press after an agreement was reached to avoid a default on the U.S. debt at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on May 28, 2023. (Anna Rose Layden/Getty Images) Speaker McCarthy had a mandate from the American people with a powerful negotiation position of a unified Republican party to hold the line for the bill that we passed, Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) said in a May 30 press event, referring to the Limit, Save, Grow Act, passed by the Republican-controlled House in April. Perry, chairman of the caucus, said the bipartisan deal negotiated by McCarthy totally fails to deliver. The Republican conference right now has been torn asunder, and we are working hard to try to put it back together again this weekend by making sure that this bill gets stopped, Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) said. McCarthy had maintained that his primary aims in negotiating with the president were to permit no increase in the debt ceiling unless accompanied by spending cuts and to reject any move to increase taxes. Everything else is open for negotiations, the speaker said. Common Ground The agreement rests on the middle ground between the parties, Young said. Individual people have issues with different parts of the bill, Young said. I have to look at what was our ultimate goal. And we are in a divided government. This is what happens in a divided government. They get to have an opinion, and we get to have an opinion. And all things [being] equal, I think this compromise agreement is reasonable for both sides. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) stressed the need for give and take at the outset of negotiations. Divided government is not unusual in this country. Weve had divided government more often than not since World War II. When the American people elect a divided government, theyre saying, You guys need to get together and figure out how to solve the big problems, McConnell said during an April 26 speech on the Senate floor. The compromise solution protects Bidens priorities, which are to preserve the full faith and credit of the United States by avoiding default and to ensure that any spending cuts do not hurt hardworking Americans, Young said. And it allows Republicans their primary aim in curbing spending. The American people came out ahead, Young said when asked whether the president fared better than the speaker in the negotiations. If you get into who won and who didnt, youve lost already when youre talking about default. It is the American people who won today. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The signing of cooperation documents between Iran and Turkmenistan reflects the will of the officials of the two countries to develop relations, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said, Trend reports. He made the remark at an event dedicated to the signing of cooperation documents between Iran and Turkmenistan in Tehran on May 30, 2023. The Chairman of the People's Council of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow also attended the mentioned event. Raisi noted that relations between Iran and Turkmenistan are developing on an upward trend. However, these relations are not considered sufficient and should be increased. The president also added that conditions have arisen for both countries to continue cooperation in water and electricity exchange, transport and transit, customs cooperation and other fields. The signed documents are beneficial for the two countries, and the people of the two countries, as well as the region countries. According to Raisi, the two countries attach importance to increasing cooperation on gas swap. Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the People's Council of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow said that cooperation between the Iran and Turkmenistan is important, especially in the fields of economy, energy, gas and electricity, transport, agriculture, environment. The chairman expressed hopes that the signed documents will contribute further develop the cooperation between Iran and Turkmenistan. On May 30, 2023, five cooperation documents were signed between Iran and Turkmenistan in the fields of transit, energy, agriculture, electricity, and education. --- Follow the author on Twitter:@BaghishovElnur NOAA Releases Hurricane Forecasts for 2023 A satellite image shows Hurricane Ian off the northwest coast of Cuba at 10:30 a.m. ET on Sept. 27, 2022. (CIRA/NOAA) The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on May 25 released its forecasts for this years Atlantic, Central, and Eastern Pacific hurricane seasons. NOAA has two hurricane centers to cover different parts of the world. The National Hurricane Center (NHC), which is based in Miami, Florida, is responsible for tropical activity in the Atlantic Ocean north of the Equator, including the Gulf of Mexico, while storms west of 140 W longitude and east of 180 W, are monitored by the Central Pacific Hurricane Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NHC is also responsible for tropical activity developing in the Eastern North Pacific Ocean, north of the equator and east of 140 W longitude, up to Mexico and Central America. High Chance That El Nino Will Affect Summer Weather Patterns The NOAA is implementing a series of upgrades and improvements this summer and will expand the capacity of its operational supercomputing system by 20 percent. The agency said that the increase in computing capability would enable it to improve and run more complex forecast models, including significant model upgrades this hurricane season. Thanks to the Commerce Department and NOAAs critical investments this year in scientific and technological advancements in hurricane modeling, NOAA will be able to deliver even more accurate forecasts, helping ensure communities have the information they need to prepare for and respond to the destructive economic and ecological impacts of Atlantic hurricanes, said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. Drivers navigate a flooded street following the passage of Hurricane Nicole in Fort Pierce, Fla., on Nov. 10, 2022. (Rebecca Blackwell/AP Photo) Hurricane seasons normally vary over these three basins, with the storm risk in the Atlantic and Central Pacific basins lasting from June 1 to Nov. 30, while the Eastern North Pacific Basin season runs from May 15 to Nov. 30. The Atlantic region has the highest odds of a near-normal season, but both Pacific basins have odds favoring an above-average season, which is very typical of the effects of El Nino this summer. El Nino is the warm phase of the El Nino-Southern Oscillation is when ocean temperatures are warmer, and precipitation is greater than normal in the area spanning the central to eastern Pacific Ocean, according to the NOAA. The pattern is defined by changes in typical sea surface temperature and precipitation across the equatorial Pacific Ocean, which can influence weather and climate patterns across the United States and worldwide. There is a 62 percent chance that this will develop sometime between May and July, after nearly two continuous summers of La Nina. Eastern Atlantic, Central Pacific Expect More Storms in 2023 Meanwhile, the NOAAs outlook for the 2023 Eastern Atlantic hurricane season predicts a 55 percent chance of an above-normal season, a 35 percent chance of a near-normal season, and a 10 percent chance of a below-normal season. At least 14 to 20 named storms are expected to come from the region, while 7 to 11 could may reach hurricane status, with winds of 74 mph or higher, and of those 4 to 8 are expected to be major category 3+ hurricanes. Wind gusts blow across the John Ringling Causeway as Hurricane Ian churns to the south in Sarasota, Fla., on Sept. 28, 2022. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images) The outlook for the Central Pacific region shows a 50 percent chance for an above-normal hurricane season in 2023, with a 35 percent chance of near-normal activity, with only a 15 percent chance for the below-normal chance of a major storm. Hurricane season in the central Pacific region is expected to be slightly busier this year, compared to a normal season, said Matthew Rosencrans, NOAAs lead seasonal hurricane forecaster at the Climate Prediction Center. A key factor influencing our forecast is the predicted arrival of El Nino this summer, which typically contributes to an increase in tropical cyclone activity across the Pacific Ocean basin. The outlook does not predict whether or how many of these storm systems will affect Hawaii. The last few hurricane seasons have been pretty quiet around Hawaii, luring some folks to let their guard down. Now its looking like this season will be more active than the past several years, said Chris Brenchley, director of NOAAs Central Pacific Hurricane Center. Its more important than ever to review your emergency plan and supply kit now, so you will be prepared for the next hurricane threat. The Eastern Pacific hurricane outlook has a 55 percent chance for an above-average season this year, with a 35 percent chance for a near-normal season and only a 10 percent chance for a below-normal season and at least 4 to 7 tropical cyclones to be expected. Nova Scotia Wildfire Smoke Spreads to US, Prompting Air Quality Alerts Thick plumes of heavy smoke fill the Halifax sky as an out-of-control fire in a suburban community quickly spread, engulfing multiple homes and forcing the evacuation of local residents on May 28, 2023. (Kelly Clark/The Canadian Press) Smoke from the raging wildfires in Nova Scotia, Canada, is spreading hundreds of miles to the United States and impacting cities across the northeast, according to meteorologists. Roughly 16,000 people have been forced to flee their homes in areas surrounding Nova Scotias capital city, Halifax, amid strong winds that have caused local wildfires to spread rapidly and damaged multiple buildings and homes, according to the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources. The fires, which come as the Canadian region experiences record-breaking hot and dry weather, span more than 25,000 acres of land, according to reports, and have been deemed out of control by officials. As the wildfires continue to rage, a plume of smoke was expected to drift over New York City on Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS), which warned it could lead to decreased air quality. At these concentrations, air quality could be impacted for a period of time, NWS said. The smoke subsequently made Tuesdays sunrise in New York City hazier than normal, according to meteorologists who noted that smoke is far above the surface and will not cause breathing issues. In a separate Twitter post late Tuesday, NWS said that patchy low-level smoke from the wildfires will continue to linger over the city on Wednesday. Hazy Skies in New York The plume was expected to dissolve and move north out of the tri-state area by Wednesday evening, according to Fox Weather senior producer and meteorologist Greg Diamond. The main thing youll notice is the skythe skies will be milky, theyll be a little hazy, Diamond told the New York Post. And occasionally, when that smoke is allowed to get down to the ground, it may smell like a campfire. Diamond noted that while most people would not be affected by the smoke, those with conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or other lung diseases may be impacted. Well never get to dangerous levels of the air quality, Diamond said. But those who are sensitive should probably avoid being outdoors for a long period of time, especially if they noticed that smoke is in the air. The smoke also made its way over Cape Cod, Massachusetts, on Tuesday morning before spreading along parts of New England, according to NWS Boston. We expect this smoke to spread north and west by this afternoon as winds shift to the southeast, meteorologists said. Those with a sensitive nose may be able to smell the smoke as it pushes through the region. In another update later on Tuesday, NWS Boston said the wildfire smoke from Nova Scotia was still visible across Connecticut, central Massachusetts, and up into the Merrimack Valley. Fires Out of Control Air quality concerns were also raised as far as New Jersey, Delaware, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday, CBS News reported. The fires initially began on Sunday near Upper Tantallon, a suburban community outside of Halifax, and have since destroyed or damaged dozens of homes, although there have been no reports of deaths, injuries, or missing persons so far, The Associated Press reported. As of Tuesday afternoon, 13 fires were burning, three of which were out of control, according to Scott Tingley, manager of forest protection for the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables. Firefighters are working around the clock to put the fires out. Officials on Monday announced a provincewide burn ban which will remain in place until June 25 unless the province determines it can be lifted sooner, owing to the seriousness of the current fires. Anyone who contravenes the ban can be subject to prosecution under the Forest Act, officials said. In a Twitter post on Monday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the wildfire situation in Nova Scotia incredibly serious and said his government is ready to provide any federal support and assistance if needed. Were keeping everyone affected in our thoughts, and were thanking those who are working hard to keep people safe, Trudeau said. Ontario Education Minister Urges Schools to Celebrate Pride Month After Board Votes Against Flying Flag A Canadian flag flies outside York Catholic District School Board headquarters in Aurora, Ont., on May 29, 2023, when the board voted not to fly the pride flag. (Tara MacIsaac/The Epoch Times) Following controversy at York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB), which recently decided not to fly the pride flag for Pride Month in June, education minister Stephen Lecce has issued a memo saying it is incumbent on all school boards to ensure LGBTQ students feel supported. That includes celebrating Pride in a constructive, positive and meaningful ways [sic] to affirm that 2SLGBTQ+ students know that their educators and staff, school board administrators, and government stand with them, he said. Ministry spokesperson Grace Lee confirmed the memo was sent out to Ontario school boards on May 30. At the May 29 YCDSB meeting, trustees voted 64 against flying the flag. It is one instance of a growing push-back on Pride Month celebrations in schools. National walk-outs are being planned for June 1 and June 9. YCDSB trustee Angela Saggese, who voted against flying the flag, said that as a Catholic school teacher she always created a safe space for all students. LGBTQ students discussed their struggles in her class because they felt safe, she said. We as Catholic educators do that every day. We embrace, we speak to them, she said. Saggese said its important to present students with clear guidance rooted in Catholic teachings. I think the board will continue to do their work to [ensure] the safety for all children. We dont need a flag to do that, she said. The Catholic Perspective Communications from Church authorities have told Ontarios Catholic schools they should be careful on LGBTQ issues. That includes a May 24 statement by Bishop Ronald P. Fabbro of London, Ont., who said Catholic schools should treat all people with respect and welcome all, but should refrain from flying the pride flag because of the confusion it causes in the minds of the faithful. The Institute for Catholic Education issued guidance in 2019, saying, In the Churchs understanding, each person is made in Gods image as male or female. Life begins at the moment of conception, and gender identity is determined genetically, anatomically and chromosomally. It said counselling support should be given with compassion to students with gender dysphoria. Those persons should be supported to accept their birth gender. It acknowledged that publicly funded Catholic schools must also acknowledge the different perspective of sexuality and gender presented by the Ontario Human Rights Commission, which is recognized in law. We are called to respect persons who disagree with us, while holding the expectation that our beliefs as Catholics, and our denominational rights, will similarly be acknowledged and respected, the guidance states. Lecce has affirmed on multiple occasions his support for Catholic education. He met with Torontos new Archbishop, Francis Leo, in April and reaffirmed his unshakeable commitment to protecting Catholic education in Ontario, he said on Instagram. On May 17, which was International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, he tweeted, We stand united in the defense, protection, and promotion of quality Catholic education in Ontario. Student, Parent Perspectives YCDSB student trustee Anthea Peta-Dragos said during the May 29 meeting, We walk, we eat, we study with our 2SLGBTQIA+ peers every single day. We see their struggles, we see their pain. If the act of raising the progress [pride] flag will make at least some of the students feel respected and safe and included it is our responsibility to do it. Ova Emakpor, who graduated from a YCDSB school in 2015, attended the meeting to support his sister, who has helped lead the call for the flag-raising. Theres nothing negative to what shes trying to do in terms of getting support for groups that maybe feel underrepresented, Emakpor told The Epoch Times before the meeting. I didnt see that type of representation for those groups when I was in school, so I think its probably a great thing to try and push that. German Reyes, who has two daughters in the board, told The Epoch Times: Our children are in Catholic schools, and theres certain values, certain beliefs that we have. And thats the reason were putting them in these schools. We want them to grow up strong in our faith. This is bigger than the flag, one parent, who preferred only to give her first name, Diana, told The Epoch Times. She said schools have been sexualizing the kids for a long time, including through books available at school libraries. Project Veritas Sues Founder James OKeefe Project Veritas on May 31 sued its founder James OKeefe following his ouster from the journalism group. OKeefe breached his contract by starting a rival group while still employed by Project Veritas, the organization said in the 37-page lawsuit, filed in U.S. court in New York. OKeefe formed the OKeefe Media Group (OMG) on Feb. 17 despite not having been terminated yet, the suit says. OKeefe also falsely said on multiple occasions that he was fired despite still being employed, albeit suspended, by Project Veritas, according to the filing. OKeefe is also accused of violating his contract by contacting Project Veritas donors and soliciting Project Veritas workers to come work for him at his new organization. One message allegedly sent to donors said in part, Hey there, I know youve been a supporter of my work in the last year, with a link to an OMG webpage asking for paid subscriptions. At least two employees accepted OKeefes offer. R.C. Maxwell and Anthony Iatropoulos, the pair, were also named as defendants in the suit. Maxwell and Iatropoulos violated their employment agreements by joining OMG and appearing to use Project Veritas property while doing so, Project Veritas alleges. Project Veritas is asking the court to quickly issue an order in its favor. If this Court does not preliminarily enjoin OKeefe and OMG from soliciting Project Veritass donors and employees, they may have solicited them all by the time Project Veritas wins a judgment prohibiting them from such solicitation, the filing states. OKeefe and Maxwell did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Iatropoulos could not be reached. OKeefe Leaves Project Veritas After weeks of rumors about his status, OKeefe went to the Project Veritas offices in New York and announced he was leaving the company after being suspended by the organizations board and stripped of decisionmaking authority. OKeefe said he had requested board members to resign. When they did not, he chose to leave. Project Veritas maintained it was open to OKeefe still being with the company while accusing him of mishandling money, allegations he denied. In the new suit, the group says the board did not terminate OKeefes employment, but rather intended to reinstate him with appropriate safeguards. OKeefe violated his employment agreement by forming OMG on Feb. 17, the suit alleges. OKeefe announced OMG to the public on March 15. Project Veritas claims OKeefe was still with the company until May. He was not formally removed by the board until April 24 and not formally terminated by Project Veritas until May 15, according to the filing. OKeefes employment agreement states that both he and Project Veritas could end his employment at any time, for any reason, or for no reason, with or without notice. Project Veritas also says that OKeefe was not being truthful when he said during multiple media appearances that he was thrown out, removed, or terminated by Project Veritas. Those comments which Mr. OKeefe knows to be falseare disparaging of Plaintiffs, were intended to discredit Project Veritas Board of Directors, and are all breaches of the Employment Agreement, the suit states. Contract Details In the contract, OKeefe agreed to not directly or indirectly, make any disparaging statements or other negative remarks, written or oral, about Project Veritas. OKeefe also agreed to not offer employment or employ Project Veritas workers for one year after leaving Project Veritas, as well as not contact Project Veritas donors across the same period of time, and to not use confidential Project Veritas information. For each breach of the contract, $100,000 was a reasonable measure of damages, the agreement states, unless Project Veritas can prove the damages are higher. OKeefe breached the contract by soliciting Project Veritas employees and donors, the suit alleges. During his appearance at the Project Veritas offices, OKeefe said that he was not done, adding: The mission will perhaps take on a new name, and it may no longer be called Veritas, Project Veritas. I will need a bunch of people around me, and Ill make sure you know how to find me. OKeefe only had information on Project Veritas donors because the information was kept on a confidential organization list, according to the suit. Project Veritas is asking for a preliminary injunction that would block OKeefe and OMG from contacting Project Veritas workers, donors, and contractors; disparaging Project Veritas; using confidential information; and using Project Veritas. The group also wants damages and a jury trial. Raised Platform Collapse in Winnipeg During School Field Trip Sends 16 Children to Hospital A teacher and 16 children in Grade 5 were injured during a field trip after a raised bridge collapsed at Fort Gibraltar, a historic site in Winnipeg. The accident happened on May 31 after a wooden, raised bridge-like structure collapsed, causing the group to fall from an estimated height of 16 to 18 feet, according to authorities. Some children reported they heard a cracking sound just before the platform collapsed. The 17 injured were transported to the Health Sciences Centre (HSC) hospital, with those children in the most serious condition sent in six ambulances, and the remainder being transported in the Major Incident Response Vehicle, a vehicle the size of a bus that offers mobile trauma treatment. Three of the children are in unstable condition while the other 13 children and one teacher are in stable condition, CBC reported. One male child requires overnight hospitalization and orthopedic surgery, according to Dr. Karen Gripp, a pediatric emergency physician. It could have been so, so much worse, Gripp said outside the hospital at a media briefing. We were prepared for the worst. Gripp said originally the hospital was told to expect 30 injured children, then 20, and the final number was approximately 17. There was a wooden structure that fell and some children fell some fell directly. And there were also some children who slid down on the structure from the injury patterns that we saw, she said. We were prepared as best we can for the most severe injuries. We had our adult surgery and our pediatric surgery colleagues, our adult orthopedic surgeons, our pediatric orthopedic surgeons, our emergency medicine colleagues, our trauma surgeons, all available. The doctor said they were prepared to resuscitate children as needed, before knowing the extent of the injuries. Fortunately, that was not needed, she said. We had empty rooms, we had nurses. The doctor said that some children had to wait for X-rays and CT scans, and that the hospital first treated the children who were transported on backboards or with spinal immobilization devices. At the time of the news conference, she said roughly half of the children had been discharged. The children were from St. Johns Ravenscourt School, a private school. Code Orange Alert CBC released drone footage showing the collapsed wooden platform. From the video, it appears two full lengths of a long, raised walkway running along the entire length of one side of the historic fort collapsed to the ground below, in addition to some individual planks. The hospital delayed same-day surgeries to open up operating rooms, and called a Code Orange alert, stating in a May 31 news release that the hospital was alerted to a potential mass casualty event at Fort Gibraltar this morning. HSC Childrens received 17 children with varying levels of acuity. Discharges have begun and we anticipate most will go home throughout the day. One adult was also taken to Adult Emergency Department and is in stable condition, the hospital said. A total of 28 patients were assessed for injuries, and several of the children were treated for broken bones and other injuries, none severe or life-threatening. Jason Shaw, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service assistant chief, told reporters outside the hospital that the call came in at 9:55 a.m. local time. We received a 911 call at Whittier Park for a school group that fell, he said, stating that the children injured were all between the ages of 10 and 11. Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service platoon chief Michelle Bessas said at the briefing the children fell from a structure at Whittier Park, where the fort is located, but the reason for the fall was not yet clear. She would not elaborate on what caused the collapse of the structure. I dont know what led to the fall. When I arrived on scene, there was a number of patients that had fallen from a structure, she told reporters at the hospital. The children who were involved, but were not injured, were transported back to school to meet with school officials and their parents, said Bessas. Our thoughts go out to all the students, teachers, and families of St. Johns Ravenscourt affected by todays terrible accident at Fort Gibraltar, Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson said on social media. The operator of the Fort, Festival du Voyageur, said the site will be closed for an undetermined period of time and that they were cooperating with authorities. A golden retriever who trekked 40 miles from his new home back to the owners who surrendered him is now happily settled with his adoptive family. Cooper the golden retriever walked for a staggering 27 days through fields, woods, and across main roads, traveling from Dungannon, County Tyrone, to Tobermore, County Londonderry, in Northern Ireland. The pups unbelievable journey started within an hour of being rehomed from a dog shelter where his canine sibling had also been surrendered. Animal-loving photographer Nigel Fleming had just brought the very friendly and smart rescue home from the shelter on April 1, when he suddenly escaped. Clare, a volunteer from the animal charity Lost Paws Northern Ireland , told The Epoch Times that Fleming reached out to them to help locate the dog. The team mobilized to help save Cooper, setting up feeding stations monitored by cameras in areas where sightings had been reported, making door-to-door calls in those areas, and posting appeals on social media. They made posters and began putting them up in the areas Cooper went missing from and the areas he was sighted. Our physical search team put in a lot of hours searching fields that we believed Cooper could have been in, while our online search team contacted numerous local businesses, via both phone call and email to raise as much awareness for Cooper as possible, Clare said. Over three weeks after Cooper went missing, Lost Paws received a phone call from a person who recognized the dog, saying the pup had been sighted in Tobermore. The charity informed Fleming, who immediately went to go and get him. Finally, Cooper was found and reunited with his adoptive family on April 27. Once he was secured and everything had settled, Clare said, we realized he had traveled 40 miles through fields over those 27 days, and had ended up back at his previous address. We really couldnt believe it. Incredibly, although he had lost a lot of weight, the golden retriever was thankfully uninjured and in relatively good condition, considering the amount of time he was out, all alone. Fleming told BelfastLive that he adopted Cooper thinking he would be good company for his golden retriever Molly. I felt [Molly] would love a dog companion and found Cooper and his brother George in a dog pound. Id have loved to have taken both of them but three big Goldens would have been too much for me to look after and in the end it was literally the toss of a coin that decided which one to take homeit was Cooper. After nearly one month, Cooper is back home with his new owner Nigel Fleming. (Courtesy of Lost Paws NI) Although able to confirm that the dog was microchipped, Clare said they knew very little about the circumstances that led to Cooper being rehomed. We try to focus on Coopers wonderful new family instead, Clare said, adding that the pup is now doing brilliantly, and getting on great with his new sister, Molly. His family immediately started taking great care of him, helping him gain weight, and settle into his new home. He is a very well looked after and loved boy. This story may appear sad in the beginning, but I think its so important to remember that really this is a very happy ending. His family never gave up on him for a second, and thats what really matters to us. 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: https://www.theepochtimes.com/newsletter Republicans Call for Action as China Turns US Into Hunting Ground for Dissidents Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.) questions Matt Albence, who was then-acting director of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, during a hearing in the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, on July 25, 2019. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) The recent indictments of two suspected Chinese agents in California reveal how the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is trying to turn the United States into a hunting ground for dissidents, according to Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.). The two individuals attempted to bribe an undercover officer posing as an IRS agent, in a plot to revoke the tax-exempt status of an entity run and maintained by Falun Gong practitioners, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ). They were arrested at their residences on May 26 and face charges of conspiracy, bribery, and money laundering. This is another example of just how the CCP (the Communist Chinese Party) is doing all they can to undermine our sovereignty [and] silence all dissent, even in our country, Newhouse told EpochTVs Crossroads on May 30. While Attorney General Merrick Garland has characterized the case as part of Chinas campaign of transnational repression in the United States, Newhouse gave a blunt assessment of the situation. This is a foreign government that is committing crimes against those that it deems to be a threat, right here on American soil, Newhouse said. The two suspected Chinese agentsJohn Chen from Chino City, California, and Lin Feng from Los Angelescarried out their bribery scheme from January to May this year, according to prosecutors. According to a court document, Chen characterized a Chinese official from whom the two received direction as someone that is always in charge of these matters, during an intercepted phone call. In other words, the unidentified Chinese official could be directly involved in Chinas ongoing persecution of Falun Gong practitioners in China, possibly once having a position within the regimes extralegal body known as the 610 Office. The United States should be a haven from persecution, not what theyre trying to turn it intoa hunting ground for an authoritarian government, Newhouse added. 610 Office Falun Gong, also known as Falun Dafa, is a spiritual discipline with slow meditative exercises and moral teachings based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance. In 1999, the Chinese regime launched a persecution campaign against the group, throwing practitioners into prisons, labor camps, and brainwashing centers. Hundreds of thousands of practitioners have been subjected to torture while incarcerated, according to the Falun Dafa Information Center, while thousands have been killed as a result of torture and abuse in police custody. Considering the strict censorship in China, the actual death toll is likely to be many times higher. The 610 Office was set up in 1999 for the sole purpose of persecuting Falun Gong practitioners. It was officially disbanded between 2018 and 2019, and its functions were merged into other CCP entities, according to internal documents obtained by The Epoch Times. Falun Gong practitioners march in Manhattan to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day, in New York, on May 12, 2023. (Larry Dye/The Epoch Times) In June 2021, the State Department announced sanctions against Yu Hui, a former director of a regional branch of the 610 Office, for his involvement in gross violations of human rights, namely the arbitrary detention of Falun Gong practitioners for their spiritual beliefs. The Chinese regimes presence inside the United States was exposed last month, when the FBI arrested two people on charges of operating a secret police station in New York City on behalf of the CCP. These individuals allegedly took orders from the regime in order to track down and silence Chinese dissidents living in the United States, prosecutors said. Newhouse said more and more American people, as well as members of Congress, are seeing China for what it is because of the aggressive actions that the Chinese communist regime has undertaken. Im glad that the DOJ and the FBI have been on their toes on this, doing the right thing, holding them accountable, he said. Who knows what else is going on, that maybe the American people and members of Congress even arent aware of. So weve got to be vigilant. Confront Chinas Repression Head-On In response to the alleged bribery scheme against Falun Gong, two Republican lawmakers are calling for the government to confront Chinas actions in the United States. Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.) speaks to the media with members of the Republican Study Committee about Iran in Washington on April 21, 2021. (Joshua Roberts/Getty Images) Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.) took the lead in a letter (pdf) signed by 21 members of Congress to Garland and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken in October last year, following the release of a report (pdf) from Spanish human rights group Safeguard Defenders exposing Chinas New York-based police station. The group released an updated report (pdf) two months later, stating that the station in New York was just one of four known Chinese police stations in the United States. Noting in the letter that the Chinese police station in New York was reportedly helping Chinese authorities coerce the regimes targets into going back to China, Banks wondered at the time whether the facility had received U.S. approval to establish the premises and stressed there should be no room for the Chinese government to exercise extraterritorial law enforcement unilaterally on U.S. soil. He believes that the Biden administration could have acted faster. That sort of handwringing has emboldened the Chinese Communist Party and its agents to continue targeting American citizens on U.S. soil, Banks told The Epoch Times. He urged Congress to push for more U.S. actions on this issue and confront Chinas repression head-on by sanctioning the United Front Work Department and kicking out any Chinese so-called diplomats involved in these malign practices. Chinas united front efforts mainly involve overseas operations to persuade organizations or individuals to spread the Partys propaganda in different locales. The executive CCP agency behind these operations is the United Front Work Department (UFWD). Lu Jianwang, one of the two arrested in the DOJs Chinese police station case, had a longstanding relationship of trust with the UFWD and Chinas Ministry of Public Security, according to a court document (pdf). Chen, the suspect in the tax bribery case, also has positions in several Chinese united front organizations, such as the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese. In February 2021, Banks and Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) introduced bicameral legislation (H.R.1214 and S.429) called the Countering Chinese Propaganda Act, with the aim of empowering the secretary of state to impose sanctions on the UFWD. We Must Address This Threat Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) sees the alleged bribery case as an indication that the Chinese regime is relentless about targeting dissidents, even in the United States. Chinas genocidal regime will stop at nothing to harass and intimidate Uyghurs, Tibetans, Falun Gong practitioners, Christians, and Hong Kongers living in exile, even on U.S. soil, Rubio said in a statement to The Epoch Times. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) speaks in Washington on March 8, 2023. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) As continued reports of CCP agents targeting these groups surface, Rubio said, Congress must address the threat by passing the bipartisan Transnational Repression Policy Act that he, together with Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), and Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), introduced in March. The bill, S.831, aims to hold foreign governments and individuals accountable when they stalk, intimidate, or assault people across borders, including in the United States, in part by requiring the establishment of a tip line with the DOJ and the Department of Homeland Security that people can use to report transnational repression. Under the act, U.S. diplomatic personnel and domestic federal employees would also receive training on identifying transnational repression, and the U.S. president would need to submit to Congress a list of foreign individuals who should receive sanctions for engaging in such campaigns. Republicans are now moving to hold FBI Director Christopher Wray in contempt of Congress. The House Oversight Committee previously gave Wray six days to provide a document that they claim shows evidence against Hunter Biden and other members of the Biden family. After having not handed over the document, the charge is now going forward. Meanwhile, the Taliban is threatening war against Iran over a water dispute, and is already engaging in skirmishes with small arms. Theyre doing so with the weapons and military vehicles the United States left behind. And in other news, former President Donald Trump is now claiming that if he wins reelection, he will end birth tourism on day one. This would bring an end to migrant incentives, where any child born on U.S. soil automatically receives American citizenship and can then bring in other family members using chain migration. In this live Q&A with Crossroads host Joshua Philipp, well discuss these stories, and answer questions from the audience. Retail Crime in New Zealand Remains Rampant Despite Government Measures New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins speaks during a tree planting ceremony at Parliament in Wellington, New Zealand, on April 26, 2023. (Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images) As New Zealand continues to endure a retail crime wave, some small business owners have criticised the central governments latest measures for security fog cannons which they say is doing nothing to address the root issue. An anti-theft device, the fog cannons work by releasing an immediate cloud of fog, making it much more difficult for criminals to see and navigate their way around the shop, hindering stealing. Ash Parmar, the owner of a New Zealand liquor store, said the fog cannons required a person to activate them, so they werent functional against burglary in the middle of the night. If its a ram-raid, most of the fog cannons available to small retailers are not sophisticated ones, he told 1News Breakfast program. The fog cannons work, but its not the only thing you need, its not that lightning strike that will give you some kind of protection in the shop. Parmar warned that many small business owners were looking to sell and get out of the industry due to the ongoing retail crime wave, which suddenly spiked during COVID-19. Every dairy owner, every liquor store owner, wants to get out of the business, thats just the reality of retail in New Zealand currently, he said. It comes after Prime Minister Chris Hipkins announced an additional $11 million (US$6.6 million) in funding to the fog cannon subsidy to help small businesses against ram raids. The scheme was extended following incredibly positive feedback since its introduction in November. Small retailers continue to tell us that the scheme is working well and that they feel safer knowing that they are better protected against things like ram raids and burglary. We have seen this in the increase in demand for fog cannons from retailers, Hipkins told reporters in a post-cabinet press conference on May 29. The central Labour government has also rolled out bollard and security alarm installations for small businesses as protections against ram raids. However, the opposition National Party has again criticised Labour for a soft-on-crime approach. Criminals are quickly adapting their tactics to new countermeasures. Until this government starts getting tougher on crime, simply throwing millions of dollars at fog cannons will not solve the problem, Nationals police spokesperson Mark Mitchell said. According to the government, 582 fog cannons have been installed under the scheme thus far, with another 1,664 applications already approved. Ongoing Youth Crime Wave Hipkins, who briefly held the police minister portfolio under former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, acknowledged that the current spike in retail crime was utterly unacceptable. The most recent police data on retail crime outlined how the number of ram raids has exploded by nearly six times. Prior to COVID-19, the number of ram raid incidents remained relatively stable, with 161 incidents recorded in 2020. This jumped to 463 in 2021 and jumped again to 891 in 2022. There have been 244 incidents recorded so far in 2023 up until April. The majority are being committed by youth offenders. This type of crime is costing the country $1 billion a year and has a significant individual impact on those in the industry, the police said. I want to acknowledge the level of concern amongst our small business community. It isnt acceptable, the level of retail crime that we have seen. Weve got to tackle this from both ends, Hipkins said. In 2022, the Ardern government argued against punishing youth offenders through the criminal justice system because it often sets up the person for a life of crime. The former prime minister said consequences to young offenders had been given through non-court action, and offenders aged 15 and over can still be brought before the court. But the National and ACT parties have consistently criticised the Labour government for the lack of serious consequences given to youth offenders, which they argue has emboldened young people to carry out crimes. ACT police spokesperson Chris Baillie said New Zealand had a serious problem that came back to values. This government is doing everything it can to avoid acknowledging that criminals are bad people who need to be behind bars to keep New Zealanders safe, he said. This is the same government who set a goal of reducing the number of people behind bars by 30 percent. Now were seeing the consequences. Mitchell reaffirmed the Nationals plan to set up a military academy in partnership with the defence force to provide discipline, mentoring, and intensive rehabilitation for youth offenders aged 15 to 17. Serious repeat offenders will be sent to the military academy or be subject to electronic monitoring or intensive supervision. An investigation into COVID-19 research found that among the more than 270,000 papers that have been published since the start of the pandemic, 212 retracted papers were cited 2,697 times, with a median of seven times and an average of 53 times per paper. A retracted study linking the antimalarial drug Hydroxychloroquine to an increased risk of mortality and heart arrhythmia was the most cited paper with 1,360 citations at the time of data extraction. Publishing processes were often compromised with COVID-19, according to the co-author of the investigation and director of Cochrane Australia Steve McDonald. We saw this push to get information out quickly, and with many more people doing and rapidly publishing COVID research, theres been a spike in retractions, senior research fellow McDonald said. Eighteen percent of citations from retracted papers were critical and may have directly impacted patient care, the authors wrote in their paper (pdf). Despite the retractions, the damage has been done as the research has already been cited by other researchers in the field, spawning more citations. It had also been reported on in the media, changing the direction of policymaking, including social distancing measures, travel restrictions, and infection control measures which introduced a myriad of disruptions. Healthcare worker Dante Hills (L) passes paperwork to a woman in a vehicle at a COVID-19 testing site outside of Marlins Park, in Miami, on July 27, 2020. (Lynne Sladky/AP Photo) Retractions safeguard against error and misconduct, stopping research from impacting scientific ideas and clinical practice, and are crucial to preserving scientific integrity. However, even high-profile medical journals became vulnerable to haste during the COVID-19 pandemic, the report found. This comes after hundreds of COVID-19 papers have been removed due to compromising ethical standards, such as using fake or suspect patient data, and were either withdrawn by the prominent medical journals that published them or removed altogether. Read More Over 300 COVID-19 Papers Withdrawn for Not Meeting Standards of Scientific Soundness Alternative Treatment Soup Evidence of research papers changing the trajectory of governmental decision-making can be found in the case of monoclonal antibodies, which triggered controversy after several scientists said certain brands of the key COVID-19 treatment would not work for the Omicron variant. A few months after preprints written by those scientists were published, the monoclonal antibody sotrovimab lost Emergency Use Authorisation, causing policymakers to move on to COVID-19 drugs like remdesivir. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) later expanded remdesivirs authorisation to outpatient treatment and pediatric patients. Eventually, pandemic response critics put monoclonal antibodies into the alternative treatment group, a place where critics say is automatically stifled or publicly scrutinised as unsafe or ineffective. A Regeneron monoclonal antibody infusion bag. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun-Sentinel via AP) Another significant example of governments and the World Health Organisation acting on suspected fraudulent and unverifiable data is the hydroxychloroquine study. Published in the Lancet on May 2020, the study concluded that the drugs hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine increased the chances of death from COVID-19 at a time when the drug was largely untested. The authors of the study claimed to obtain medical records of nearly 100,000 patients from hundreds of hospitals on six continents, but more than 100 scientists analysed the findings and found major issues, including inadequate adjustment for variables, a lack of ethics review, and numbers that dont appear to add up regarding patients in Australia and Africa. The paper was retracted after two weeks, but it had already shaken the scientific world, prompting the World Health Organization and French authorities to suspend clinical trials testing hydroxychloroquine against COVID-19. While some studies have shown patients experiencing heart problems when taking hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine, the drugs were approved decades ago and have been used historically by people against malaria and other ailments with little concern. Why Did This Happen? McDonald said that preprintswhich allow authors to publish early versions of research papers before peer review or journal publicationsresulted in dubious COVID-19 science, for academics were able to exploit loopholes in the process. Further, retracted studies werent treated with due severity, McDonald said. In theory, when people cite retracted studies, they should be citing them in a critical way, alluding to the fact that these papers have been retracted because the research is unreliable, he said. But what we found was that actually in a lot of these cases, even if the author team who cites the retracted paper were doing so long after the paper had been retracted, they werent citing it as a retraction. They were using it as evidence that this particular intervention is effective, or theres nothing wrong with that research. So they were uncritically citing retracted papers. COVID-19 Research Volume Dwarf Other Pandemics Different sources have stated that some 90,000 to 450,000 COVID-19 papers have been lodged online since the start of the pandemic, outstripping that of other pandemics by orders of magnitude. One source said nearly 28,000 COVID-19 research papers were published in 2020, rising to nearly 68,000 in both 2021 and 2022, whereas another study quotes 404,541 papers from 2020 to 2022. The Institute for Scientific Information examined the evolution of research across five pandemicsSARS, MERS, H1N1, Zika virus, and COVID-19. They found that only H1N1 came close to COVID-19 in numbers, peaking at about 1,300 papers in 2011. McDonald said the pandemic has exposed frailties in scientific publishing that should serve as a warning to the medical science community. Blindly citing papersirrespective of where theyre publishedwithout first assessing their reliability or retraction status can falsely elevate poor and possibly fraudulent research, potentially harming the very people the research should be helping, he said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Romania can act as an important transit country for transport of gas volumes from Azerbaijan, Romania's Minister of Energy Virgil-Daniel Popescu said in an exclusive interview with Trend on the occasion of the Baku Energy Week. "Romania and the Republic of Azerbaijan have a long tradition in terms of energy cooperation relations. The Strategic Energy Partnership has strengthened and expanded year by year. During last year, the two countries had an extremely consistent bilateral dialogue and signed important documents regarding the implementation of some strategic energy projects. Romania appreciates the active participation of Azerbaijan in joint efforts to strengthen Europe's energy security, especially in this challenging energy context, through its key role in developing the Southern Gas Corridor and its commitment to increase the Azerbaijani gas volumes for the European market," he said. Popescu noted that a time reference point in the Europe-Azerbaijan relationship was the signing on July, 2022, of the MoU related to a Strategic Energy Partnership which opened a new chapter of the energy cooperation between Europe and Azerbaijan and includes a commitment to double the capacity of the Southern Gas Corridor so that, by 2027, at least 20 bcm of Azerbaijani gas can be delivered to the EU annually. "This will contribute to the diversification goals included in the REPowerEU plan and help Europe to end its dependence on Russian gas. In 2021, Azerbaijan delivered 8 bcm to Europe, and this year the target is 12 bcm. This will represent almost half of the total export, which Azerbaijan plans for this year, at the level of 24.5 bcm. However, Europe-Azerbaijan cooperation is much more extensive, aiming at accelerating the implementation of renewable energy sources and addressing the issue of methane emissions. The EU and Azerbaijan share the ambitious goal of accelerating the development and deployment of renewable energy production and transmission capacity in order to maximize synergies between the EU's transition to a clean energy and Azerbaijan's vast untapped energy potential in the field of renewable energy, especially the offshore energy sector," said the minister. He went on to add that Europe has largely found its balance and path forward after the shock of the multiple crises it has gone through. "On this way, the Republic of Azerbaijan has been, is, and will be a reliable partner, which opened a new gas supply path for Europe especially through its essential role in the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor, a project that must be expanded so that more and more countries in Europe to benefit from this valuable gas transport infrastructure," said Popescu. Next steps for Solidarity Ring The minister noted that through the gas transport infrastructure it has BRUA gas pipeline, Iasi- Ungheni-Chisinau gas pipeline, Trans-Balkan Corridor and the operational gas interconnectors Romania already functions as an important regional gas supply node. "Romania transport gas for Ukraine, for Hungary and further for Slovakia, we transport gas for the Republic of Moldova. In addition to the operational gas interconnectors and the BRUA gas pipeline, the reactivation of gas transport with the exploitation of its full potential on the Trans-Balkan Corridor was in Romania's attention. Thus, at the end of 2021, the operator of the national gas transport system TRANSGAZ has completed all the necessary works to ensure the reverse flow at the entrance to the Trans-Balkan Corridor in Romania, so that it can take over the volumes of gas required not only for Romania, but also for other states in the region. Romania supported the Solidarity Ring project and signed in Sofia the Memorandum on encouraging cooperation between transport and system operators from Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary and Slovakia and SOCAR. The objective of this Memorandum is to ensure unrestricted and uninterrupted access to natural gas produced in Azerbaijan or available through terminals in Greece or Turkey, thus allowing the provision without difficulty of additional gas volumes to the states in the region. The MoU is open for other states in the region to join, such as the Republic of Turkey, the Republic of Moldova or Ukraine, because interconnection has proven to be not only a measure of solidarity, but a valuable tool for ensuring energy supply and security," he said. Popescu believes it is important to note that the European Commission supports member states in their diversification efforts. "This message was expressed by Mrs. Kadri Simson on the occasion of signing this Memorandum, underlining the importance of this document which will provide a framework for the further development of alternative routes for gas supply in the region. Diversification of sources and supply routes is the key to strengthening national and regional energy security. That is why I want to emphasize the importance of the Trans-Balkan Corridor in the current regional energy context. This Gas Corridor, used to its maximum potential through the operationalization of the Solidarity Ring project, can represent an important supply route for many countries in the region. By using the infrastructure of the Trans-Balkan Corridor on its territory, Romania can act as an important transit country for the transport of gas volumes from Azerbaijan, but also from the Turkish or Greek terminals, to many countries in the South-Eastern Europe and the Balkans," he added. Green Corridor from Caspian Sea to Black Sea The minister noted that the Agreement between the governments of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania and Hungary regarding the Partnership in the field of development and transport of green energy is a commitment of Romania for a Green Corridor, in the context of the efforts made by our country to ensure the transition to clean energy by promoting renewable energy sources. "The construction of the submarine cable as part as green corridor is important and viable not only because a green transport Corridor between the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea is being put into practice, but also because in the margin of the energy supply diversification process, it is an opportunity for the entire European continent. In the framework of a study performed by Italian consultant CESI which assessed the possibility and opportunity of building un submarine cable between Romania and Georgia, a number of technical and financial aspects were evaluated and presented during a meeting in Tbilisi. The preliminary results of the study are being analyzed and assessed at the levels of the 4 signatories, including from the point of view of considering these results in the framework of a more extended study that was proposed to be performed and that will go beyond the construction of the submarine cable, assessing the possibility of producing and absorbing green energy in the 4 signatories countries and in Europe," he explained. Expanding SOCARs business in Romania "We are happy to see that Romania is among the priority directions of SOCAR business development, not only in the area of retail operations, but now also in the transmission of Azerbaijani gas volumes in Romania and to other European markets, via Romania. Until now, SOCAR Romania owns a number of 66 own stations and operates 3 warehouses: Teius, Onesti and Constanta. SOCAR offers an extensive range of products and services in the field of fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals and bitumen trade, becoming one of the important players on the Romanian fuel distribution and petroleum product trading market," said Popescu. More than that, as the minister recalled, ROMGAZ and SOCAR signed in June, 2022, a MoU through which the companies propose to strengthen energy cooperation relations and to explore new collaboration opportunities in order to implement mutually beneficial projects in the energy field. "Also, Romania and Azerbaijan proposes to explore, based on an MoU signed in October last year between SOCAR and ROMGAZ companies, the opportunities for the joint development of a liquefied natural gas project in the Black Sea, a project that can support the strategic safety objectives in the supply of natural gas and diversification of sources for Romania, but also the potential of the Republic of Azerbaijan as an important gas supplier for Europe. Romania propose to the SOCAR company to analyze the opportunities to expand the fields of activity in Romania, in the light of the new European paradigm towards obtaining energy from sources with low carbon emissions, by taking into account potential investments in electricity production using natural gas. At the same time, another direction of cooperation of interest for Romania that SOCAR could analyze is the sale of petrochemical products, manufactured at the facilities owned by SOCAR in Azerbaijan and Turkiye, on the Romanian market. In this context, the Romanian Side expressed the interest especially for chemical fertilizers, necessary for the Romanian agricultural sector," he said. Gas contract between Azerbaijan and Romania Popescu recalled that ROMGAZ and SOCAR entered into contractual arrangements starting with the beginning of this year. "Such contractual arrangements formed the basis for a constructive joined work and proved to be a new milestone for strengthening the good cooperation relationship between the two companies. Therefore, we are confident that such cooperation will be extended beyond 2024, not only by entering into new gas supplies contracts but also into other potential projects of mutual interest," he concluded. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn San Diego Countys Proposed Budget Would Boost Infrastructure Spending by $37 Million San Diego County officials have proposed an additional $37 million in its 202324 budgetup 6 percent from last yearfor infrastructure improvements, for such things as traffic signals, repairing sidewalks, and funding park amenities. With the increase, the total funding for the countys Land Use and Environment Group, which manages such projects and programs, would be $667 million of the countys overall $8.1 billion proposed budget. The county plans on using $280.1 million for financial aid programs for housing affordability, to preserve library and park amenities, and for sewer, water districts, and road maintenance. Another $221.9 million has been set aside for maintaining roads and sidewalks and construction improvements at county airports. In terms of protecting the environment and natural resources, $131.7 million is planned for planting 10,000 new trees, diverting waste from landfills, and converting county vehicles to electric. Another $60.3 million has been set aside for inspecting 15,000 food facilities, monitoring and treating 1,500 mosquito breeding sites, and funding hazardous incident response teams. The agency operates 156 parks, 57,000 acres of parkland, 385 miles of trails, 33 branch libraries, and eight county airports, and reviews and inspects thousands of structures across the county. The budget will be voted on in June and take effect on July 1. Santa Ana Unified to Maintain Its Curriculum on Israel-Palestine Conflict Despite Complaints of Anti-Semitism Santa Ana Unified School District leaders announced it would maintain two recently-adopted courses on the Israel-Palestine conflict amid complaints from local Jewish groups that say the content is antisemitic. At a May 23 board meeting, Superintendent Jerry Almendarez said the district wouldnt remove any content from the two courses it adopted in April as part of its ethnic studies curriculum. The district is in the process of developing such courses in anticipation of a 2021 state bill requiring them to do so by the 202526 school year. The approved coursesEthnic Studies: World Geography (pdf) and Ethnic Studies World Histories (pdf)have been criticized by both the Orange County Anti-Defamation League and the Jewish Federation of Orange County for portraying a biased and one-sided view of Israel and the conflict. Members of the public make comments to Santa Ana Unified School District trustees at a board meeting in Santa Ana, Calif., on May 23, 2023. (Screenshot via Santa Ana Unified School District) The Anti-Defamation League said in a May 5 statement that the curriculums discussion questions portray the Jewish community in Israel as settler-colonizers, rather than providing proper historical context on the Jewish peoples ancestral connection to the land and why Jews from both Europe and also neighboring Arab countries sought refuge in that region in the 20th century. However, several local Palestinian groupsincluding the Arab American Civic Council, the Palestinian Youth Movement, and the Council on American Islamic Relations-Greater Los Angeleshave spoken out in support of the courses and said the content sheds light on a piece of often-overlooked history and gives an accurate portrayal of the conflict. During the May meeting, Almendarez said he had met with leaders from groups on both sides and was committed to continuing those conversationsbut that the district has no intention of removing any narrative from the curriculum. Comments have been shared with the district that we are looking to eliminate certain perspectives and narratives from our curriculum, Almendarez said. I want the public to know that the district has no intention of removing any narrative from the curriculum that will be developed in the future. Our intent is to listen to all sides, to learn from all sides, and to approach this in a balanced manner. Though Almendarez said he will not remove such course content, the Jewish Federation of OC said that the district has been receptive to their concerns and is willing to work with them to further develop the ethnic studies curriculum in a fair manner. In our meetings with [Almendarez] including the curriculum steering committee, our concerns over biased content have been met by receptive partners who seek to understand, and share a willingness to address these concerns through [the districts] curriculum review process, the May 23 statement read. We are now in regular conversation to address concerns about course content in a manner that supports [the districts] intention to develop an inclusive ethnic studies curriculum. The statement went on to clarify that the group did not seek the district to remove any content from the course. Despite what organizations and activists have publicly stated, in our conversations with [the district], the Federation has not requested, nor do we have intention to seek, removal of ethnic studies course content that maintains academic integrity, the statement said. We simply want it to be accurate and avoid the continued spread of hate against Jews and other minorities. Meanwhile, The Arab American Civil Council, said in a May 30 statement that they were glad the district was maintaining the courses. The group said students of Palestinian and Arab descent often feel that school curriculums ignore and erase their existence. The [Santa Ana Unified] School Board has taken a bold and life-changing approach to teaching the history of people who have gone through oppression, government-led surveillance, and even death, the statement said. Supporters need to defend the curriculum for its accurate depiction of historical facts alongside the courageous step to healing society from a hard-to-discuss past. Hussam Ayloush, executive director for the Council on American Islamic Relations-Greater Los Angeles, also commended the boards decision in a May 26 statement. We thank [Almendarez] and [the district] for their decision to continue to present a factual description of Israels forced displacement of Palestinians and the historical context of the conflict, Alyoush said. The content being discussed in this curriculum is not only crucial to building a well-rounded educational experience for students within the district, but it also allows for the teaching of history without the interference of groups with narrow political agendas attempting to skew the truth. A spokesperson for the Anti-Defamation League of OC was not immediately available for comment. Second State Bans Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion From College Campuses Onlookers watch as Confederate statues are removed from the University of Texas in Austin, on Aug. 21, 2017. (Stephen Spillman/Reuters) Texas will become the second state in the nation behind Florida to dismantle political ideologies housed in so-called Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) offices at universities. The passing of Texas Senate Bill 17which prohibits public universities and colleges from having DEI officeshappened on May 27 after a conference committee of lawmakers in the Texas Legislature reconciled differences between the two chambers versions. The next step is to send it to Gov. Greg Abbott, who indicated on Twitter that he will sign the bill. Critics such as James Lindsay, author of The Marxification of Education, describe DEI as part of a Marxist-based ideology that divides people into groups of oppressors and victims based on race and gender in an effort to redistribute resources and power to the victims. People hold up signs against critical race theory (CRT) being taught in schools during a rally at the Loudoun County Government Center in Leesburg, Va., on June 12, 2021. (Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images) Modern CRT is a descendent of critical theory taught at the Frankfurt School, an early Western Marxist school whose members came to Columbia Universitys Teachers College in New York in 1934, according to Heritage Action for America. CRT sees America as having been founded on the system of capitalism, which is racist, and therefore must be dismantled, according to the same group. Supporters of DEI and CRT say the ideologies challenge the dominant narrative about Americas history and seek to make the country more equitable. The goal is to proactively attack the systems that allow discrimination against minorities. Resistance to DEI Sen. Brandon Creighton, Texas Senate Bill 17s chief architect, pointed out on Twitter that taxpayer money put toward DEI efforts could now be applied to academics. The elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion offices will result in millions [of dollars] in savings for taxpayers and restore a culture of free inquiry, meritocracy, equal opportunity, genuine innovation within Texas higher education, he wrote in the post. Meanwhile, two more red statesNorth Dakota and Tennesseehave passed laws to remove DEI loyalty statements from hiring requirements. And theyve banned DEI training from universities without banning the DEI offices. By submitting DEI loyalty statements, many colleges and universities require faculty candidates to demonstrate their commitment to the belief system. The statements often outline how special consideration or aid will be given to racial minorities or people identifying as LGBT. Texas Sen. Brandon Creighton speaks at a public forum held by The Texan publication on Jan. 24, 2023. (Darlene McCormick Sanchez/The Epoch Times) Thirty-five bills banning DEI in 20 states were launched in legislatures nationwide in 2023, according to the Chronicle of Higher Educations DEI legislation tracker. Most were initiated in Republican-controlled legislatures. But one even appeared in Democrat-controlled Oregon, introduced by a Republican lawmaker. South Carolina, Missouri, and Iowa are among states considering similar legislation targeting DEI programs. Iowa passed a bill curtailing DEI in educational budgets, requiring a study before any public money can be spent on it. Much of the money spent on salaries for DEI staffers supports what critics describe as woke programs based on social justice activism aimed at race and gender. For example, The Epoch Times learned that salaries were paid at the University of Texas at Austins Gender and Sexuality Center, which has a mission to explore, organize, and promote learning around issues of gender and sexuality. The centers event calendar includes things like Trans Thursdays and Feminist Fridays. Vast amounts of taxpayer money spent on DEI salaries demonstrate what detractors say is a divisive ideology siphoning money away from academics. Texas and Florida are expected to save millions of taxpayer dollars by banning such programs in higher education. Documentation obtained by The Epoch Times from UT Austin showed DEI salaries cost more than $13 million. Following Floridas Lead The Texas bill is similar to Florida legislation signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, who announced his bid for the U.S. presidency last week. The Florida anti-DEI laws lean heavily into dismantling woke ideology in education and the workplace. Earlier this month, DeSantis signed SB 266 and HB 931 to prohibit universities and colleges from spending federal or state dollars on discriminatory initiatives, such as DEI. The new laws also stop them from requiring students, faculty, or staff to pledge loyalty to such initiatives. At about the same time, Texas GOP House members fought a fierce battle against state Democrats, who tried to kill or weaken the DEI bill during five hours of debate. Ultimately, it passed. The final version of Texas Senate Bill 17 would ban DEI officesexcept those required by federal law, programs, loyalty statements, and trainingat publicly funded universities. Texas lawmakers debated banning DEI on college campuses for more than five hours at the state capitol in Austin on May 19, 2023. (Courtesy of the Texas Legislature) The committee removed language that would have allowed DEI employeeswhose jobs would be eliminatedto be offered similar paying positions within Texas universities. Conservatives said they considered that a win. Texas law will provide a provision for injunctive relief to stop violations of the law. Texas also passed SB 18, in which the House codified tenure in the law, rather than removing it, as the Senate intended. The bills final version would keep tenure the same, but increase legislative oversight. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick made changing tenure a legislative priority after the University of Texas Austin faculty passed a resolution last year daring anyoneincluding the legislature or the Board of Regentsto stop them from teaching Critical Race Theory (CRT). Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick speaks at a press conference at the Texas State Capitol in Austin on May 18, 2020. (Lynda M. Gonzalez-Pool/Getty Images) It is shocking that these professors, who live inside a bubble, genuinely believe they are not accountable to anyone, Patrick said in an April news release. That is not how the real world works. Of course, they are accountable to the Texas Legislature and their board of regents. This behavior must not be tolerated. Those opposed to the Texas bills to ban DEI and curb tenure launched rallies and gave testimony. Professors, college students, and left-wing activists held a Day of Action on May 3 at the Texas Capitol. There, they rallied to keep DEI offices and tenure for professors in the states public higher education institutions. Ultimately, Texas did not pass a DEI-related bill, SB 16, which would have protected students from being penalized for not affirming that they agree with DEI or CRT. Those beliefs often disparage Christianity, white people, and conservatives. Senate Votes to Advance Repeal of Bidens Student Debt Relief Plan The U.S. flag at the dome of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington on May 12, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times) The U.S. Senate will consider a joint resolution to overturn President Joe Bidens student debt relief plan. In a 5146 vote, the chamber approved a motion to take up the resolution on May 31, opening the door to a congressional rebuke and nullification of Bidens one-time student loan forgiveness program. The resolution, H.J. Res. 45 (pdf), passed the House of Representatives on May 24 in a 218203 vote, during which two Democrats joined with 216 Republicans in condemning the presidents plan to extend a pause on federal student loan repayment and cancel the debt of certain federal student loan recipients. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the program is projected to cost taxpayers roughly $400 billion over the next decade. Make no mistake: These reckless student loan schemes do not forgive debt, Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) noted on the Senate floor prior to Wednesdays vote. They transfer burden from those who willingly took out the loans to go to college to make more money when they graduated to Americans who never attended college or who have already paid back their loans. These policies are as unfair as they are irresponsible. Bidens program, Cassidy added, does nothing to hold institutions accountable for the skyrocketing costs of higher educationthe root cause of the debt in question. According to the College Board, in the last 30 years, tuitions and fees have jumped at private nonprofit colleges by 80 percent, he noted. At public four-year institutions, theyve jumped 124 percent. According to the Center for a Responsible Federal Budget, if the student loan transfer goes into effect, students and taxpayers would be back in this same situation in five years. Biden has promised to veto the measure if it lands on his desk. Debt Limit Deal The Senate vote came hours before the House was expected to vote on the debt limit deal struck between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and President Joe Biden over the weekend. The Fiscal Responsibility Act, which would suspend the national debt limit until January 2025, also includes a provision that would require the government to resume the collection of student loan payments and interest, which have been frozen for the last three years. If passed, payments would resume at the end of August, though the bill has been criticized by stalwart Republicans, who feel McCarthy conceded too much to Biden and the Democrats. Tomorrows bill is a bunch of fake news and fake talking points that will do nothing to rein in out-of-control federal spending, Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) said at a Tuesday press conference. If every Republican voted the way that they campaigned, they would vote against tomorrows bad deal because this is the very thing that we all campaigned to put an end to. House Democrats, on the other hand, have signaled their support for the measure, presenting a unified front in contrast with the division among the GOP. House Democrats are going to make sure that the country does not default, period, full stop, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) told reporters Wednesday. We will continue to be responsible stewards of our economy, and we will not let middle-class Americans, working families, those who aspire to be part of the middle class, seniors, veterans, the poor, the sick, and the afflicted be hurt by a dangerous, GOP-manufactured default. Court Challenges The Supreme Court has also been deliberating over Bidens program in relation to two separate cases challenging his authority to implement it. As the court is expected to rule on those cases in the coming weeks, those rulings could throw a wrench in Bidens plans if Congress does not. The Biden administration has extended the pause on student debt collection several times since it was first implemented in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The most recent extension occurred in November 2022, at which point Biden announced that if the Supreme Court had yet to rule on his program by June 30, the freeze would end 60 days from that date. If the court hands down a ruling before June 30, the freeze will end 60 days from the date of the ruling. During oral arguments in March, the court appeared skeptical that Biden possesses the authority to circumvent Congress with his program. We take very seriously the idea of separation of powers and that power should be divided to prevent its abuse, and there are many procedural niceties that have to be followed for the same purpose, Chief Justice John Roberts said at the time. I think most casual observers would say, if youre going to give up that much amount of money, if youre going to affect the obligations of that many Americans on a subject thats of great controversy, they would think thats something for Congress to act on, he added. And if Congress hasnt acted on it, then maybe thats a good lesson to say, for the President or the administrative bureaucracy, that maybe thats not something they should undertake on their own. Bill Pan and Savannah Hulsey Pointer contributed to this report. Senators Disagree on How to Solve US Farm Worker Shortage Sens. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) agree that the shortage of seasonal farm workers in the United States is approaching crisis levels. But they differ on how to address the problem as it relates to recent immigrants. Witnesses at a May 31 hearing of the Senate Judiciary Committee said current immigration law leaves immigrants open to exploitation and abuse by human traffickers and unethical employers. Our immigration system is failing; its failing them as well as our farmers and the American people, said Durbin, who chairs the committee. He agreed with witnesses who said most seasonal farm workers are illegal immigrants whose human rights must be protected by ensuring that agricultural labor reform includes the possibility of citizenship. Graham said implementing reforms without securing the border would only make a bad situation even worse. The only solution available is to deal with the other magnets of illegal immigration, Graham said. Illegal immigrants board vans after waiting along the border wall to surrender to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Border Patrol agents for immigration and asylum claim processing on the U.S.Mexico border in El Paso, Texas, on May 11, 2023. (Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images) The witnesses said the problem begins with the inability to find citizens and legal residents willing to do the difficult and often dangerous farm work. Many farmers turn to the H-2A temporary visa program, which presents its own problems. Leon Sequeira, former assistant secretary of labor in the George W. Bush administration, is an attorney for agricultural employers. He said the Department of Labor administers the H-2A visa program and is often hostile or indifferent to farmers. This puts the farmers in a tough spot. Farmers have no other legal option, he told the committee. H-2A requires that farmers try to hire U.S. citizens or legal residents first. Sequeira said that in the past year, 300 legal residents applied for the roughly 500,000 open farm jobs. This is an average of about six applicants for every 10,000 jobs. However, H-2A presents challenges as well. The Department of Labor set the farm worker base wage at $16 per hour. Farmers are also required to provide housing and transportation. Sequeira said the department operates as if agriculture is like other businesses in which producers set their own prices. Mexican farm workers harvest celery in a field in the Imperial Valley, Calif., on Jan. 31, 2017. (Sandy Huffaker/AFP via Getty Images) Farmers do not get to set the price for their products, he said. The market sets the price. Sequeira said farmers compete in an international market. While American farmers pay workers $16 per hour, Mexican farmers pay about $11 daily. Chalmers Carr, a South Carolina farmer, testified that this makes the issue more than just a market or immigration problem. He said the United States is becoming more dependent on inexpensive imported food. So reforming agricultural labor law should be considered a national security issue. We have a very fragile food supply chain. I would say we are adversely affecting the consumer with higher food prices, Carr said. He noted that citizenship wasnt necessarily the best incentive. Carr said that in his experience, many of the illegal aliens came to the United States for financial benefits. Mexican migrant workers load boxes of organic cilantro during the fall harvest at Grant Family Farms in Wellington, Colo., on Oct. 11, 2011. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) If we created a better guest worker program, we could solve this problem, he said. Other witnesses said there are humanitarian considerations as well. Diana Tellefson Torres is CEO of the United Farm Workers Foundation. She said many illegal alien farmworkers make much less than the $16 per hour set by the government. She said human smugglers and unethical employers force illegal workers to pay them various fees. Because of this, many illegals enter the country so deep in debt that they become indentured servants. Two women in Florida told her that they were paid in cash by the man who drove them to work each day. The women knew he was keeping part of their pay, but they were afraid to speak up because of the threat of deportation. According to Torres, the H-2A program doesnt provide workers any legal standing. The existing H-2A Visa program has become the worst form of human trafficking, she said. Deeply Flawed System Torres and others at the hearing said reforms must provide the workers some legal standing that includes a chance at citizenship. To push for reforms that dont have these factors is an active choice to support a deeply flawed system, she said. Graham said he agreed with everyone who testified. However, he pointed out that revamping the visa program without securing the border would result in a flood of immigrants wishing to take advantage of the programs. He said any legislation must include agricultural labor and immigration reforms. Everything you say is true, Graham told the witnesses. If we dont reform our agriculture system, food prices are going to spike in this country, and it will become a national security issue. South Africa Gives Putin Immunity to Attend World-Changing BRICS Summit South African President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses new members of the African National Congress (ANC) during an election campaign ahead of the 2024 general elections, on May 14, 2023. (Rajesh Jantilal/ AFP via Getty Images) JOHANNESBURGThe South African government has granted diplomatic immunity to all officials set to be involved in the upcoming BRICS summit, including Russian President Vladimir Putin. International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor did this by publishing a notice for the Diplomatic Immunity and Privileges Act to be extended to all international officials attending BRICS-related events in South Africa. Meetings of heads of state and foreign affairs ministers from the BRICS bloc of nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) are scheduled for several South African cities from Aug. 22 to Aug. 24. Special envoys from nations across the globe, most notably Middle Eastern powers including Iran and the United Arab Emirates, have also confirmed attendance. Putin has accepted an invitation to be at the summit in person. But the Russian leaders planned visit has been in doubt ever since the International Criminal Court (ICC) in March issued a warrant for his arrest for alleged war crimes in Ukraine. South Africa, as a signatory to the Rome Statute, which established the ICC in 2002, is obliged by its own law to take Putin into custody should he visit its territory. Presidential adviser Obed Bapela recently told The Epoch Times that the African National Congress (ANC) government would never arrest Putin, because to do so would be a declaration of war on Moscow. He said the administration run by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was working on a multifaceted plan that would allow the Russian president to attend the BRICS summit in person, without fear of arrest. Legal analysts said it seemed as if the granting of diplomatic immunity was integral to that plan. Pandors notice said Putin and his international counterparts would be granted immunities and privileges provided in terms of Section 6(1)(a) of South Africas Diplomatic Immunity and Privileges Act. University of Cape Town law expert Pierre de Vos told The Epoch Times that the government was, ironically, using U.N. legislation to accord immunity to Putin. Section 6(1)(a) of the act establishes that immunities are specifically provided for in the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations, 1946 in respect of the participation in conferences and meetings. The immunities and privileges in terms of the U.N. Convention grant immunity from personal arrest or detention and legal process of every kind. De Vos, however, pointed out that South Africas domestic ICC law in its present form declares that head of state immunity shall not apply for cases before the ICC. South African Minister of Justice Ronald Lamola told The Epoch Times that the government was in the process of rushing to amend our domestic ICC laws so that they exempt sitting heads of state from arrest on South African soil. A senior official in the South African Department of International Relations told The Epoch Times that Putins personal presence and input was considered essential by Ramaphosa and Pandor, given the grave importance of the 2023 BRICS summit. They expect this summit is going to lay the foundation for a global shift. BRICS is going to be transformed with the addition of new members, especially from the Middle East, and its going to become the worlds biggest economic bloc, a very powerful organization, the official said. Its unimaginable that this change will happen without the presence of the leader of the superpower of Russia, whatever is happening in Ukraine or elsewhere. Although the ANC government claims non-alignment in the war in Ukraine, much of the international community considers it to be firmly on the side of Russia. ANC ministers and officials, political as well as military, continue to visit the Kremlin, always stating the need for close cooperation and friendship with Moscow. Russias trade ties with South Africa are minuscule and dwarfed by Pretorias economic cooperation with the United States and the European Union, Ukraines major allies. But the ANC often emphasizes its strong emotional connection to Russia, by virtue of the fact that the former Soviet Union supported its armed struggle against apartheid from the early 1960s to the late 1980s. Ramaphosas government continues to defy the West by allowing sanctioned Russian ships and aircraft into its harbors and military air bases. The United States has also accused it of illegally supplying weapons and ammunition to Russia, which the ANC administration denies. Several ANC officials close to Ramaphosa told The Epoch Times that the government remained convinced that there was a legal loophole that would allow Putin to personally attend the BRICS summit without violating the ICC Charter. De Vos said they were probably referring to Article 98 of the Rome Statute. Article 27 states that even sitting presidents and prime ministers and rulers of all kinds are not immune from ICC prosecution by the ICC. But Article 98 can be read as providing an exception to this general rule, he said. Article 98(1) reads: The court may not proceed with a request for surrender or assistance which would require the requested state [in this case South Africa] to act inconsistently with its obligations under international law with respect to the state or diplomatic immunity of a person of a third state, [in this case Putin and Russia] unless the court can first obtain the cooperation of that third state for the waiver of the immunity. De Vos said the ANC appeared to be interpreting this as suggesting that the ICC couldnt request it to arrest Putin unless Russia agreed to waive Putins immunity from prosecution, which the Kremlin obviously wouldnt agree to. He said the governments interpretation of Article 98 would need to be tested in a South African court, and thats exactly where its headed. The official opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), has applied to the Pretoria High Court to order the government to arrest Putin as soon as the ICC requests South Africa to do so should he set foot in the country. International justice expert at the Southern Africa Litigation Centre Atilla Kisla said the DAs case had a good chance of succeeding, as a judge would likely reach the reasonable conclusion that South Africas present ICC laws compelled the state to arrest alleged war criminals. The judge can only make a decision based on the letter of the law as it stands right now. The government has not yet amended the ICC laws. The DA is taking preemptive action and trying to prevent any attempts by the state to let Putin off the hook or to make it difficult and uncomfortable for the state to do so, Kisla told The Epoch Times. In his affidavit to the court, DA leader John Steenhuisen wrote: This is plainly a constitutional matter. It involves the violation or possible violation of the rule of law [a foundational value of the Constitution] and separation of powers by the government, including by way of the threatened violation of South Africas international law obligations, which have been given effect domestically by the Implementation Act, which Parliament has bound South Africa to and on which the Supreme Court of Appeal has previously ruled. In June 2015 a court ruled that the South African government should immediately arrest then-Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, who the ICC had charged with crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide relating to conflict in his countrys Darfur region. However, the ANC administration, then led by President Jacob Zuma, ignored the court order and allowed Al-Bashir to leave the African Union summit and board a plane back to Khartoum, Sudan. In the wake of the latest controversy around Putins attendance of the BRICS gathering, Pretoria has again labeled the ICC unfair and selective about who it decides to prosecute. ANC leaders are currently debating the implications of withdrawing South Africas membership to the court. South Korea Salvaging Suspected Wreckage of North Koreas Crashed Spy Satellite North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects North Korea's National Aerospace Development Administration after recent satellite system tests, in Pyongyang, North Korea, in this photo released by state media on March 10, 2022. (KCNA via Reuters) South Korea conducted a salvage operation on Wednesday to recover an object presumed to be the wreckage of a North Korean military spy satellite that had crashed into the sea due to rocket malfunction. North Korea launched its military reconnaissance satellite using the newly developed Chollima-1 rocket at around 6.27 a.m. local time on Wednesday at the Norths Sohae Satellite Launching Ground. The rocket crashed into the West Sea of Korea shortly after takeoff. The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported the rocket lost thrust due to abnormal start of the two-stage engine. The Norths National Aerospace Development Administration attributed the failure to the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system and the unstable specifications of the fuel, it stated. KCNA stated that North Korean authorities will investigate the failed launch and carry out a second launch as soon as possible through various partial tests. South Koreas military said it located an object presumed to be part of North Koreas space launch vehicle in waters 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of Eocheong Island at around 8.05 a.m. local time, AFP reported. South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) detected the launch from the west coast of North Korea at 6.29 a.m. local time and issued an emergency alert in Seoul through sirens and text messages urging citizens to evacuate, but the alert was retracted shortly after. Japan also detected the launch and said the projectile disappeared over the Yellow Sea. An emergency warning was issued in the Okinawa prefecture, but it was later lifted after it was confirmed that the projectile will not fall on Japans territory. Nuclear envoys from South Korea, Japan, and the United States spoke on the phone and condemned North Koreas launch, which posed a grave threat to regional security, according to Japans Foreign Ministry. The three parties shared the view that they will continue to monitor the situation with a high sense of vigilance, the ministry stated. US Calls For Serious Negotiations With North Korea The United States said that North Koreas launch using ballistic missile technology was a brazen violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions, which raised tensions and risked destabilizing the region and beyond. We urge all countries to condemn this launch and call on the DPRK to come to the table for serious negotiations, National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge said in a statement, referring to North Koreas official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. The United States will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and the defense of our Republic of Korea and Japanese allies, Hodge added. A TV screen shows a file image of North Koreas rocket with the test satellite during a news program at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, on Dec. 31, 2022. (Lee Jin-man/AP Photo) North Korea conducted the final-stage test of the spy satellite last year to evaluate the capabilities of satellite photography and data transmission system. KCNA released black-and-white photos of South Koreas cities of Seoul and Incheon, which, when enlarged, showed areas surrounding the South Korean presidential office in Seoul. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has said that having an operational military reconnaissance satellite would be crucial for North Korea to cope with the most hostile rhetoric and explicit action by the United States and South Korea. The United Nations imposed economic sanctions on North Korea over its previous satellite and ballistic missile launches but has not responded to recent tests because China and Russia, permanent council members now locked in confrontations with the United States, have blocked attempts to toughen sanctions. The Associated Press contributed to this report. A famous line of the English playwright and poet William Shakespeare is All the worlds a stage. Fine artists throughout the centuries have used The Bard of Avons words as inspiration to visually stage his scenes through their own mediums. Author and journalist Andrew Dickson writes, One of the best things about Shakespeares plays is that no one can tell you what they should look like. The scripts are famously short on stage directions and scene-setting; there are barely any specifications for costume or appearance. Painters have used this to their advantage, creating magnificent and complex works that charismatically bring Shakespeares plays to life, while still reflecting their own unique voice and style. The Tempest Ferdinand courting Miranda (from William Shakespeares The Tempest, Act I scene ii), circa 1736, by William Hogarth. Oil on canvas; 31 1/2 inches by 42 inches. National Trust, UK. (Public Domain) William Hogarth (16971764) was something of a Renaissance man, albeit one who lived in Georgian London. He was a talented engraver, political and social satirist, writer, and painter. His paintings range from small-scale genre scenes and conversation pieces to life-sized portraits and historical works. Ferdinand Courting Miranda (From William Shakespeares The Tempest, Act I scene ii) shows the first encounter between the love-struck royal prince Ferdinand and the heroine of The Tempest, Miranda. Miranda lives on a remote Mediterranean island with Prospero, her exiled magician father. In the painting, Prospero is depicted to Mirandas right and his slave, Caliban, is to her left. A bat circles above Caliban as he crushes a dove beneath his foot, which symbolizes his threat to the two lovers. The spirit Ariel is playing music overhead. Professor Robin Simon, a leading expert in British art and literature, says, We know that Hogarth studied Shakespeares text directly because, at the time, The Tempest was only ever played in the form of a musical in which this scene does not appear. This small-scale 18th century history painting is one of the earliest known images of a Shakespearean scene and among Hogarths most highly significant works. The National Trust describes how it is the artists imagined version of the The Tempest scene, rather than how the passage would have been performed on stage. Hogarth wanted to create an English school of history painting, and there is nothing more English than Shakespeare. This painting was purchased in 1766 by a patron of Hogarth and has ever since hung in the same Yorkshire house, Nostell Priory, descending through the patrons family. However, in 2002, its then owner was interested in selling the work. Thanks to a grant from the UKs Art Fund charity, it was saved for the nation and continues to be on public display. Hamlet Ophelia, circa 1851, by John Everett Millais. Oil on canvas; 30 inches by 44 inches. Tate Britain, London. (Public domain) A sea of change occurred in the British art world in the mid-19th century with the founding of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. The group, inspired by medieval and early Renaissance art, championed the creation of artworks with a naturalistic purity, minutely realized details, rich, bejeweled colors, and poetic symbolism in the Victorian era. Sir John Everett Millais (18291896) was one of the founders. His painting Ophelia, made early in his career, is arguably the most famous Shakespeare painting of all time. The scene portrayed in the painting derives from Hamlet, Act IV, scene vii. After Prince Hamlet has broken their engagement and killed her father, Ophelia goes out to pick flowers. While doing so, she falls from a willow tree into a stream and drowns. However, the actual event of her death is depicted offstage, giving artists further license to let their imagination guide their illustration. Detail of flowers in Ophelia, circa 1851, by John Everett Millais. (Public Domain) Millais spent several summer months sitting by a river in Surrey, using close observation to paint the minutiae of the natural world in Ophelia. The flora in the painting has symbolic significance and many plants are also mentioned in the play itself. The weeping willow tree that leans over Ophelia symbolizes forsaken love; nettles by the willows branches represent pain; daisies floating near her right hand represent innocence; fritillaria signify her sorrow; violets characterize faithfulness and chastity; pansies imply unfulfilled love; and the poppy denotes death. They are all depicted with accurate botanical details. Millaiss son later recounted a story that a professor teaching botany, who was unable to take his students into the countryside, instead took them to see this picture, considering the artwork as informative as seeing the natural world in person. In the winter of 1852, while working on this painting in his studio, Millais worked on the figure of Ophelia, using Elizabeth Siddal as his model. She stoically posed in an antique silver embroidered gown for hours on end in a bath warmed by candles, which sometimes went out and led to chilly water that made her ill. Siddal was a great muse of the Pre-Raphaelites, later marrying co-founder Dante Gabriel Rossetti, but she was also an artist and poet in her own right. Rossettis 1860 marriage portrait of Siddal. Regina Cordium,1860, by Dante Gabriel Rossetti. Oil on canvas; 10 inches by 8 inches. Johannesburg Art Gallery, South Africa. (Public Domain) The current Tate exhibit, The Rossettis (through Sept. 24, 2023), explores Siddals modeling influence, along with reevaluating her work. For some, the crowd-pleasing inclusion in the exhibition is Millaiss Ophelia, which has garnered acclaim since its first public display. In 1852, The Morning Chronicle wrote, Mr Millaiss talent is budding into undoubted genius Ophelia is startling in its originality. The beholder recoils in amazement at the extraordinary treatment, but a second glance captivates and a few moments contemplation fascinates him. Antony and Cleopatra The Meeting of Antony and Cleopatra: 41 B.C., 1885, by Lawrence Alma-Tadema. Oil on panel; 25.7 inches by 36 inches. Private Collection. (Public Domain) In the Victorian era, the leading traditional artistic style was Academic art. Practitioners trained at European academies of art and produced scenes of the ancient classical world and historical subjects. The Dutch-born Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema (18361912), who settled permanently in London in 1870, was one of the most famous and popular Academic artists of his day. Alma-Tademas specialty was making the luxurious past come alive through the portrayal of precise archaeological details and textures, resulting from his meticulous scholarly study, superb draftsmanship, and use of lush colors. The Meeting of Antony and Cleopatra: 41 BC, which sold at Sothebys in 2011 for an astounding $29.2 million, surpassing an estimate of $3 to $5 million, is among Alma-Tademas masterpieces. It shows Act II, scene ii from Shakespeares Antony and Cleopatra, a reminisce of the first meeting between the titular characters. Their actual historic summit is one of the most famous events of antiquity: Cleopatra, who had been Julius Caesars lover until his assassination, was summoned by Mark Antony, one of his avengers and subsequent rulers of the Roman Empire, to prove her loyalty. Antony was dazzled by the entrance she made, a spectacle she engineered to display her empires staggering riches. As Stacy Schiff writes in her biographyCleopatra: A Life, this real-life tale would elicit from Shakespeare his richest poetry. Christies cataloging notes that in Alma-Tademas day, Antony and Cleopatra was frequently performed on the London stage. Furthermore, in addition to painting Shakespearean scenes, Alma-Tadema designed sets and costumes for important productions of the playwrights work. The paintings complex composition, characteristic of Alma-Tademas oeuvre, is built upon a series of diagonal and horizontal lines. This aids the viewers eye in traveling through the narrative and absorbing each detail before moving on. Sights, sounds, and smells from Shakespeares linessuch as the barge, cloth of gold, flutist, perfumeare spectacularly conjured by Alma-Tadema, along with accurate Egyptian hieroglyphic inscriptions, jewelry, furnishings, and decorative motifs. Alma-Tademas arrangement of the paintings scenery and props masterfully sets the stage for his figures storyline. Cleopatras alluring pose and dress is met by Antonys awe and fascination. A 19th-century critic deemed this painting second to no work. Setting the art of the Bard in pictorial form has a long and rich history. Resultant artworks bring Shakespeares words to life, making them accessible in a visual way. Furthermore, great artists that have pursued this theme have created magnificent workswhat dreams are made onwhich still captivate the public. Sudans Military Says It Has Suspended Its Participation in Talks With Paramilitary Rival People line up in front of a bakery during a cease-fire in Khartoum, Sudan, on May 27, 2023. (Marwan Ali/AP Photo) CAIROSudans military suspended its participation in talks with a paramilitary force its been battling for weeks for control of the northeastern African country, a military spokesman said Wednesday. The development was a blow to the United States and Saudi Arabia, who have been mediating between the two sides. The conflict has plunged Sudan into chaos. Brig. Nabil Abdalla, a spokesman for the Sudanese armed forces, told The Associated Press that the move is a protest against the Rapid Support Forces repeated violations of the humanitarian cease-fire, including their continued occupation of hospitals and other civilian infrastructure in the capital, Khartoum. Sudan descended into chaos after fighting erupted in mid-April between the military, led by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo. The fighting has killed at least 866 civilians and wounded thousands more, according to the Sudanese Doctors Syndicate, which tracks civilian casualties. The toll could be much higher, the medical group had previously said. Abdalla, the spokesman, said the military wants to ensure that the terms of a U.S.-Saudi-brokered truce be fully implemented before discussing further steps. He did not elaborate. On May 21, both sides signed a cease-fire agreement allowing for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and the restoration of essential services destroyed in the clashes. They also agreed to stop the looting of residential properties and humanitarian aid, as well as the taking over of civilian infrastructure such as hospitals and power plants. There was no immediate comment from Saudi Arabia or the United States. So far, there have been seven declared cease-fires, all of which have been violated to some extent. Responding to the militarys move, the RSF said it unconditionally backs the Saudi-U.S. initiative. On Tuesday, the military released footage that showed Burhan inspecting troops. The army chief warned that the military would resort to full lethal force if the RSF doesnt respond to the voice of reason. The militarys aircrafts were also seen flying over the capital. Residents, meanwhile, reported clashes late Tuesday in parts of Khartoum and its neighboring city of Omdurman. Both sides traded blame for violating the cease-fire. The militarys move came two days after the sides agreed to extend the shaky cease-fire for five more days, after Washington and Riyadh signaled impatience with persistent truce violations. In a joint statement Sunday, the U.S. and Saudi Arabia called out both warring sides for specific breaches of a weeklong truce rather than issue another general appeal to respect agreements. The statement said the military continued to carry out airstrikes, while the RSF was still occupying peoples homes and seizing properties. Fuel, money, aid supplies, and vehicles belonging to a humanitarian convoy were stolen, with theft occurring both in areas controlled by the military and by the RSF, it added. The fighting has caused widespread destruction in residential areas in Khartoum and its adjacent cities of Omdurman and Bahri. Residents reported storming and looting of their homes, mostly by the RSF. Many posted photos and videos of their looted homes on social media, condemning the pillaging. The conflict has also turned Khartoum and other urban areas into battlefields, forcing more than 1.65 million people to flee their homes to safer areas inside Sudan or cross into neighboring countries, according to U.N. figures released Wednesday. Early on, foreign governments raced to evacuate their diplomats and nationals as thousands of foreign residents scrambled to get out of the country. According to the U.N.s International Organization for Migration, around 425,500 people fleeing the conflict have crossed into neighboring countries. Egypt is hosting the largest number of refugees with more than 175,500, followed by Chad with around 114,700 and South Sudan with over 85,200, said the IOM. Supreme Court Overturns Four Deportation Orders From US Appeals Courts The U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, on May 12, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times) The Supreme Court resurrected four appeals from illegal immigrants trying to avoid deportation, sending their cases back to federal appeals courts after ruling weeks ago that lower courts dont have to wait until a litigants administrative options are exhausted before issuing rulings. The Court released unsigned orders (pdf) on May 30 summarily reversing rulings of the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, 8th Circuit, 10th Circuit, and 11th Circuit. The nations highest court did not explain why it was issuing the orders. No justices dissented. The cases of lead petitioners Sergio Mencia-Medina of Honduras, Alma Aracely Castaneda-Martinez of Honduras plus two other individuals, a person identified as A.B. of Mali, and Pardeep Kumar of India, were remanded to circuit courts for reconsideration in light of the Supreme Courts unanimous ruling in Santos-Zacaria v. Garland on May 11. That ruling made it easier for those challenging deportation to make their case. The May 11 ruling was a defeat for the Biden administration, which was trying to deport Leon Santos-Zacaria, a Guatemalan citizen who was born male but identifies as a woman and uses the first name Estrella in everyday life. Santos-Zacaria entered the United States illegally at least twice and was deported but came back to the United States in 2018 and, after being detained, applied to have his removal stayed under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and for sanctuary under the Convention Against Torture. Under the INA, an alien unlawfully present in the country may be deported after the U.S. Department of Justice issues a final order of removal, but the alien may not be removed to a country where his or her life or freedom would be threatened because of the aliens race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. LGBT individuals are included in the particular social group category. At the stay hearing, Santos-Zacaria told the immigration judge he experienced persecution in Guatemala for being a gay and transgender person. The 5th Circuit ruled against Santos-Zacaria, finding that he had failed to exhaust all available remedies under the INA. The exhaustion rule holds that a plaintiff must exhaust all possible administrative remedies before seeking judicial review. Such a remedy could consist of asking a government official to review the case. In an opinion written by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the Supreme Court found that the INA does in fact require individuals to exhaust their administrative remedies but held that the rule was not jurisdictional. This means that persons fighting deportation do not have to exhaust their administrative remedies before appealing a final removal order in a federal court. On May 30, the Supreme Court simultaneously granted the petitions of Mencia-Medina, Castaneda-Martinez, A.B., and Kumar seeking review while skipping over the oral argument phase when the merits of the case would have been considered. Some lawyers call this process GVR, which stands for grant, vacate, and remand. Critics say this process is part of the so-called shadow docket, which they say lacks transparency. The Epoch Times reached out to counsel in the four cases. A.B.s attorney, Charles Roth, director of appellate litigation at the National Immigrant Justice Center in Chicago, said we have no comment, by email. The attorney for Castaneda-Martinez, R. Trent McCotter of Boyden Gray and Associates in Washington, also declined to comment. Attorneys for Mencia-Medina and Kumar had not replied as of press time. The Epoch Times also sought comment from the U.S. Department of Justice but had not received a reply as of press time. Suspects Dislike for Drugs, Homelessness May Have Led to Shootings That Killed 4 in Metro Phoenix PHOENIXA mans anger over drug abuse drove him to fatally shoot four men and wound a woman in a 12-hour crime spree in metro Phoenix, authorities said. Iren Byers, 20, was taken into custody Sunday on suspicion of four counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted first-degree murder, police in the suburb of Mesa said. He remained jailed without bond Tuesday, and it wasnt immediately known if Byers has a lawyer yet who can speak on his behalf. His next scheduled court appearance is later this week. Byers apparently met the victims at random on Friday at a range of places including a park and a convenience store, police said. He shot most of them in the head when the topic turned to drugs, according to police investigators. The deceased were all men between the age of 40 and 41. Hes claiming that when people are asking him if he wanted to get high on fentanyl, things like that, then it really upset him because his brother was using that type of drug, and that set him off, Mesa police Detective Richard Encinas told Phoenix radio station KTAR on Tuesday. There have been a number of high-profile drug seizures in recent months in the nations fifth-largest city. Authorities seized more than 1 million fentanyl pills from a Mexican man in Phoenix two months ago. That followed seizures of 165,000 pills, 137,000 pills, and 122,000 pills from drug traffickers in Phoenix in January. Mesa police arrested Byers near his grandmothers apartment complex about a half mile (0.8 kilometers) from the last shooting. Byers took responsibility for the shootings and told officers where they could find the clothes and 9mm handgun used in the crimes, police said. Video surveillance footage showed the suspect wearing the clothing reported by witnesses at multiple shooting scenes, police said. He directed us to where not only the murder weapon was, but where the clothing was that he wore when he committed all four of these shootings (in Mesa) and basically laid out the whole story for us, Encinas said. The shootings began around 2:45 p.m. Friday in Phoenix, according to court documents. Byers was walking along a canal with Nicholas Arnstad, who reportedly was smoking fentanyl. Byers allegedly shot Arnstad over his drug use and because Byers brother also abused fentanyl, police said. Byers went to Mesas Beverly Park later that day and met Julian Cox, who allegedly talked to Byers about using blues, the street name for fentanyl pills. Byers shot and killed Cox before fleeing the scene, police said. Byers then met Stephen Young at a Mesa convenience store late Friday night, police said. Young wanted to smoke fentanyl, and Byers allegedly shot him and ran off. Byers next talked to a John Swain, a homeless man, near railroad tracks in Mesa, according to court documents. Authorities later found Swain shot dead. Police said Byers met his final victim while walking on Mesas Main Street. He talked with 36-year-old Angela Fonseca until she made him mad, then allegedly shot her in the face. Investigators did not give any details about their conversation. Fonseca was taken to the hospital and underwent multiple surgeries but is expected to survive, according to authorities. At least one shell casing from each crime scene matched the same handgun, police said. Once we were able to locate him and conducted the interview, thats when it turned into where he admitted to the whole thing, Encinas said. Byers told investigators that he did not call for medical aid for the victims because they didnt deserve it, according to court documents. Knowing that Iren Byers will have to face the consequences of his unjustified actions is the start of justice to be seen, Detective Brandi George, a Mesa police spokeswoman, said in a statement. Taiwan Believes China Wont Shift Australia on Trade Pact Taiwan's Chief trade negotiator John Deng looks on as he speaks to the media in Taipei, Taiwan, on January 22, 2021. (Ann Wang/Reuters) Taiwans Trade Minister John Deng has said he does not expect the Australian government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, will bow to pressure from Beijing to block Taipeis bid to enter the newest and largest trading block in the Pacific region. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is a free trade agreement that creates a beneficial trade zone between 12 countries that now include Australia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, New Zealand, Singapore, Vietnam, and the UK. First formed in 2018, it is worth $203 billion (US$131.7 billion) in two-way trade to Australia. Currently, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) states that the GDP of the trading bloc is US$11.8 trillion and represents 14.2 percent of world trade. The bloc has received applications from both Taiwan and China. However, membership to the bloc is a long process and does require unanimous agreement from all member nations. According to the CPTPP Commission, the group has not yet made a decision on whether to commence negotiations. Australian officials have previously said that Beijing would need to remove all tariffs before Canberra would be willing to consider Beijings CPTPP bid. The Taiwanese trade minister told The Australian that he could not imagine Australia, which he said was a champion of trade liberalisation since the 1980s, would compromise on Taipeis application in the face of pressure from Beijing. I cannot imagine Australia will compromise That would be such a big change from (Australias) past 40, 50 years (of) practice and policy, he told The Australian. Australia is one of the leaders in the international trade community. They are a strong advocate for the rules-based (trade order). Everybody knows, in the WTO, Australia is one of the leaders. So we hope that they can continue this spirit and consider Taiwans case. Read More Beijings Ambassador Confirms Lifting of Ban on Australian Timber As China Seeks CPTPP Approval China Trade Moves to Pressure Australia on CPTPP Application The comments from the Taiwanese trade minister come after the Chinese Ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, told journalists on May 18 that Beijing was ready to set up a working group to discuss taking part in the CPTPP. However, Trade Minister Don Farrell told The Guardian Australias podcast on May 20 that China would have to follow the same processes as the UK. Theres a process involved with the CPTPP, Farrell said. I guess the significant feature of the CPTPP is that any new applicants must be approved by all of the current members of the CPTPP. Farrell noted that it took a long time for the bloc to reach an agreement on the UK admittance, and during that process, the group set out a range of parameters for how countries might gain entry into the FTA. So, obviously, China can make an application, and any consideration would be on the basis of precedents that have been set down as a result of the United Kingdoms accession, Farrell said. Former PM Supports Taiwan Meanwhile, former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has told a Taiwanese think tank that Taiwans experiences and views are more important now than ever as democracies around the region face the current geopolitical challenges. Taiwanese perspectives and experience are more important than ever, Turnbull said. The singular objective of the democracies in the Asia Pacific is to ensure that the strong do not do as they will, that the big fish, in Lee Kwan Yews words, do not eat the little fish. Our resolute defence of democracy and the right of nations to determine their own destiny free from coercion must never flag or falter. The former prime minister also said that he believed the West is more united in the defence of democracy now than ever before, citing the Russian invasion of Ukraine as a watershed moment in the international democratic community. Putins war has achieved the exact reverse of all that he had expected. Ukraine did not fold up in a few daysthe Ukrainian peoples will to fight has been as tenacious as it has been courageous. NATO was not dividedit is stronger than ever, and two neutral nations on Russias border, Sweden and Finland, are joining NATO, he said. The lesson from Ukraine is straightforward; democracies must support each other. If Putin had been able to prevail in Ukraine, not only would the democratic sovereignty of that nation have been snuffed out, but every other authoritarian regime would be encouraged to follow Russias example. Targets Stock Has Lost Billions of Dollars Amid Pride Backlash Target Corporations stock has lost a significant amount in the past two weeks as the retailer continues to face backlash over its line of LGBT clothing for children. Shares of the firm dropped by about 0.8 percent on May 31, to $132.73, or about 17 percent down from two weeks ago, on May 18, when the stock was trading at $160.96. Data show that the current levels are the lowest Target has experienced since the early days of the pandemic. According to an analysis posted by the New York Post, Targets stock has lost about $12.7 billion so far amid the backlash. Target has been the subject of a conservative-led boycott that was caused by the companys move to release LGBT-friendly clothing for children, including apparel with the transgender flag colors. Some items include a onesie for infants that states Bien Proud, a childrens book with the title, Twas the Night Before Pride, a book that tells children how to use transgender pronouns, and a handful of T-shirts with similar slogans, according to the firms website. The company also drew backlash for tuck-friendly swimwear, but a Target spokesperson has said that the swimwear wasnt made for children. The products drew the ire of prominent conservatives, who accused the Minneapolis-based retailer of grooming and exploiting children. The company responded by moving some of those items to other locations in the store, according to a news release issued last week. Since introducing this years collection, weve experienced threats impacting our team members sense of safety and well-being while at work, Target said in a statement, without elaborating on the specific threats. Given these volatile circumstances, we are making adjustments to our plans, including removing items that have been at the center of the most significant confrontational behavior. It isnt clear whether any police reports were filed by the company. Conservative commentator Candace Owens, of the Daily Wire, and others have suggested that people boycott Target because of the products. Others said that Target should be given the Bud Light treatment, referring to the backlash against the beer brand for its move to produce a beer can with a transgender activists face on it. I cannot state enough how important is for people to choose not to shop at Target. There has never been a company that has been more pro-transgenderism than Target, Owens wrote earlier this month. A worker collects shopping carts in the parking lot of a Target store in Highlands Ranch, Colo., on June 9, 2021. (David Zalubowski/AP Photo) In 2016, Target faced boycott calls from conservative groups over its bathroom policy. One of them, the conservative American Family Association (AFA) said at the time that its members shouldnt shop at Target and accused it of possibly exposing women and girls to sexual predators. Targets policy means a man can simply say he feels like a woman today and enter the womens restroom this is exactly how sexual predators get access to their victims, AFA wrote on its website at the time. Also last week, former Fox News host Megyn Kelly expressed concern about childrens being exposed to LGBT-linked products at Target, writing: We dont need our kids seeing this [expletive] when we walk down the aisle at Target. It was also revealed last week that Target donated millions of dollars to an activist groupNew York City-based Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN)that tries to place LGBT-themed books in K-12 school libraries and calls on teachers to talk about sex and gender with children. The companys website shows that Target has given more than $2 million to GLSEN and confirmed earlier this month that its provided another $250,000 to the group to advance its mission. This marks our 11th year of partnership, with a total of $2.1 million in support to date, Target stated on its website. As the backlash against Target grows, some noted that other nationwide chains and companies have made similar overtures to the LGBT community in recent years. Will It Work? Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) over the weekend responded to the boycott and signaled that it will be hard to sustainunlike the one targeting Bud Light. What really came to bite Bud Light is that wasnt a hard boycott, Cruz said during a recent episode of his podcast. Its difficult for nobody on planet Earth if you were going to order a Bud Light to say, Ill have a Coors Light. Thats a very simple substitution. Target? Well see how prolonged and easy a substitution it is. Theres Walmart. You know, there are alternatives. I will say Targets are located in a lot of areas and very convenient for a lot of shoppers. So well see if this becomes a persistent consequence or not. Conservatives have typically been not very good at boycotts. Targets press office didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment. Teens Arrested in Connection With Group Attack on Marines Over Memorial Day Weekend A group of minors was apprehended following a severe attack on three off-duty U.S. Marines at the San Clemente Pier in Southern California over the Memorial Day weekend. The incident, which involved a crowd of dozens of young people, led to the arrest of five minors on felony assault charges. The incident is currently under investigation by local authorities. Mayor Chris Duncan of San Clemente confirmed that four additional minors will be held accountable for their roles in the violent altercation, though they will not be detained. Specifics regarding the charges they face have not yet been disclosed. The arrested individuals, comprising four boys and one girl, could be charged with felony assault with a deadly non-firearm weapon and are currently held at the Orange County Juvenile Hall. Eyewitnesses recorded the assault, revealing the minors among a crowd at the scene. Due to their minor status, the identities of the suspects have been withheld by the authorities. Duncan, who previously served as a federal prosecutor, vehemently condemned the assault. He reassured the San Clemente community, particularly the military and veteran members, of the citys commitment to dealing with such incidents with the utmost severity. He underscored the tragedy of the event, particularly given its occurrence over Memorial Day weekend, a time of respect and remembrance for those who have served in the U.S. military. According to the reports, deputies arrived at the pier around 9:50 p.m. following reports of minors assaulting U.S. Marines. Two injured Marines were found at the scene. Footage obtained by local media outlet KTLA showed one of the Marines being punched from behind as he was departing from the group. When he turned to confront the attacker, a large crowd encircled them, leading to a brawl. At one stage, two of the Marines were seen on the ground in a protective posture while they were repeatedly kicked by numerous minors. While the cause of the fight remains unclear, one of the assaulted Marines, Hunter Antonino, reported to KCAL News that the incident began after he requested a member of the group to stop igniting fireworks at the beach. Antonino, along with his fellow Marines, were reportedly stomped on and beat up by the group. The Orange County Fire Authority provided medical assistance to the injured Marines at the scene, but they refused hospital transportation. As the investigation progressed, it was revealed that a third Marine had also been assaulted during the incident, though the severity of his injuries is currently unknown. The Orange County Sheriffs Office was unreachable for immediate comment on Wednesday morning. They highlighted the ongoing nature of the investigation, attributing it to the incidents complexity and the large number of participants involved. The Orange County Sheriffs Department has urged anyone with information about the attack to come forward. According to the Pacific Research Institute, California is currently facing a crisis in its juvenile justice system, as the state will close all its juvenile prisons in June. This has led to juvenile offenders being transferred to county jails, which are ill-equipped to provide the necessary rehabilitative resources for these young offenders. This change not only poses challenges for the management of these facilities, but also raises concerns about the welfare of these young individuals. San Clemente is a city nestled on Californias coast. It offers an enchanting blend of scenic mountain, hill, and ocean views. Its temperate climate further accentuates the citys allure, drawing both residents and visitors alike. But beyond its natural beauty, San Clemente shares a profound connection with the military due to its proximity to the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. Amphibious Assault Vehicles storm Red Beach during exercises at Camp Pendleton, Calif., on June 2, 2010. (Lenny Ignelzi/AP Photo) Camp Pendleton, a key Marine Corps base, is a stones throw from San Clemente. This geographical closeness has woven a strong military thread into the citys social tapestry. The residents of San Clemente hold deep respect and appreciation for the military, forging a bond between the city and the base that is often reflected in community events and local culture. The attack took place over the Memorial Day weekend, a time of solemn remembrance in the United States. Celebrated on the last Monday of May, this federal holiday honors and mourns military personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty. It is a day marked by various ceremonies and events aimed at paying respect to these brave individuals. Amidst the turmoil, the city has united in support of the victims, echoing its long-standing values of respect and unity that characterize this coastal community. Six years ago, senior U.S. spies framed Gen. Michael Flynn, a combat veteran with over three decades in uniform, as a Russian spy. Even after he was forced out of the White House, corrupt prosecutors continued to hound him and his family. And when the DOJ finally relented, a federal judge upended the Constitution to go after the manand now Flynn means to hold the government accountable in court. In this hard-hitting episode of Over the Target, Lee Smith speaks with Flynns lawyer Jesse Binnall about the upcoming trial that has the DOJ running for cover. 02:43: DOJ wants to transfer Flynn trial from Florida to D.C. 06:05: Why the Flynn case need should stay in Florida 07:59: Misconduct of federal judge in the Flynn Case 11:58: Judge Emmet Sullivan ignored separation of powers 14:40: Flaws in justice system visible in DOJ fake case against Flynn 20:15: Flynn suing DOJ and FBI $50 million for malicious prosecution The End of Title 42 Brings a New Wave of Migrants Crossing the US-Mexican Border A U.S. Border Patrol agent keeps watch as immigrants enter a vehicle to be transported from a makeshift camp between border walls between the U.S. and Mexico in San Diego on May 13, 2023. (Mario Tama/Getty Images) The U.S.-Mexican border is wide open after the end of Title 42, with a new wave of immigrants crossing into the southwestern states. About 1,000 immigrants have been crossing the border daily, with over 30,000 a month, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data. The Biden administration lifted Title 42 on May 11, which allowed border patrol agents to deny immigrants permission to enter the country during the pandemic. Todd Bensman, a senior fellow on national security at the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) and author of Overrun: How Joe Biden Unleashed the Greatest Border Crisis in U.S. History, says the United States has a serious border crisis. A U.S. Border Patrol agent patrols near the border wall in Sunland Park, New Mexico, as pictured from the Mexican side of the border in Ciudad Juarez, on February 12, 2021. (Jose Luis Gonzalez/Reuters) Bensman, who worked as a journalist for 23 years and covered border and illegal immigration issues, has traveled to the border and seen firsthand the number of immigrants crossing from Mexico down to Central America. They tell me that theyre coming because the doors open. Thats it. Its that simple, he said. Immigration officials have become overwhelmed with the increasing rate of migrants crossing the border and rely on the Mexican government to help control the traveling migrants. The reason this is happening is that, on the American side, they would process immigrants and get them those papers of personal recognizance and release them into the interior of the bus stations. So, immigrants are rushing to get in while they can. And thats what were seeing now, he said. Bensman believes its time to return to Trumps border policy now that Title 42 is over to stop the high influx of migrants crossing the border. During Trumps policy, only about 30,000 applications per day were processed, he said. Now that number has tripled since Trump left office. In January 2019, the Trump administration implemented the Migrant Protection Protocols Policy, or MPP, that kept asylum seekers waiting in Mexico for their U.S. immigration hearings. As a result, 70,000 people were returned to Mexico under the policy. In June 2022, Trumps policy was terminated by the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled the Biden administration didnt violate proper administrative procedure in rescinding Remain in Mexico. Bensman believes migrants wouldnt risk the journey to cross into the United States. if there wasnt a high probability of getting in. CBP One app migrants can use to schedule asylum appointments was launched by immigration authorities to push immigrants legally cross into the United States. While people who illegally cross will be deported, barred from reentering the United States for at least five years and be presumed ineligible for asylum, according to Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Thousands of migrants crossing the border are swamping the Border Patrol, which has difficulty processing migrants into the system. When they arrive and cross the border, they throw their IDs down, Bensman explains. Border Patrol is not out there anymore. And they cant keep up with it. The Biden administration is allowing anyone to apply to seek asylum. Still, it is turning away individuals who didnt first seek protection in a country they traveled from or first used online. There are several ways to immigrate to America legally under our existing laws. For example, an American citizenan American citizen can sponsor an immediate family member from another country. An American company can sponsor an employee from another country. There are visas for students to study in our colleges and other special categories, Biden said in a statement. There are laws to get here legally. That includes another legal way for someone to come to America: seeking asylum because theyre fleeing persecution as many of our ancestors did, Biden added. Texas Gov. Gregg Abbott deployed a Texas Tactical Border Force team to the Texas-Mexico border to respond to the growing border crisis since the end of Title 42. With the ending of Title 42 on Thursday, President Biden is laying down the welcome mat to people across the entire world, but Texas is deploying our new Texas Tactical Border Force, said Abbott said in a statement. 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. Bensman says there is a national security threat but acknowledges that migrants will continue crossing if the border walls are open. Immigrants are smart, savvy people when it comes to making economic decisions for themselves and their families, Bensman said. The Founders and the Constitution, Part 12: Benjamin Franklin Commentary Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston on Jan. 6, 1706, the youngest son among a tradesmans 15 children by two successive wives. He had two years of formal education. At the age of 12 he was apprenticed to his older brother James, a printer. Five years later, he ran away to New York. He couldnt find a job there. He was forced to travel on to Philadelphia, arriving with one Dutch dollar and about 20 pence in copper. But in the next 25 years, Franklin established a successful printing business, with affiliated businesses throughout the colonies; established a successful newspaper, the Pennsylvania Gazette, and also founded Americas first German-language newspaper; created a highly popular annual almanacPoor Richardand composed the first series of political essays in American literature; taught himself to read, write, and translate German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Latin; organized Americas first public library, a fire department for Philadelphia, the American Philosophical Society, and a militia company; invented the Franklin stove and a new printing method to prevent the counterfeiting of paper money; served as clerk of the Pennsylvania colonial assembly, postmaster of Philadelphia, and co-postmaster for North America; studied and wrote on the nature of whirlwinds and water spouts, and undertook the groundbreaking experiments in electricity that led to world-wide recognitionincluding several honorary masters degrees, and honorary doctorates from the University of St. Andrews and Oxford. And that was just the first half of his life. In 1748, around the time of his 42nd birthday, he retired from active management of his businesses. He continued to write essays and pamphlets on all sorts of subjects. In addition, he continued his scientific workpursuing further discoveries in electricity, building the first model basin for planning the design of ships, inquiring into the nature of the Gulf Stream, and inventing bifocal glasses and the lightning rod. But after his 42nd birthday, he devoted most of his life to public service. He supported the American cause against Britain. He served in the Pennsylvania assembly (and briefly as its speaker). He was a member of the Continental and Confederation Congresses. He joined John Adams, Robert Livingston, and Roger Sherman on the committee that oversaw Thomas Jeffersons drafting of the Declaration of Independence. Franklin also was U.S. postmaster-general for a time, and for 25 years was a diplomat in Europe (17571762; 17641775; 17761785). At various points during his stay in Europe, he represented the governments of Massachusetts, New Jersey, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and the United States. When he returned to America in 1785, the Pennsylvania executive council elected him state president. He was in that office when the Constitutional Convention met. Visionary Documents One way Franklin contributed to the framing of the Constitution was by composing documents that helped pave the way for the Constitution. In 1754, he represented the Colony of Pennsylvania at an intercolonial convention called principally to negotiate with the Six Nations of the Iroquois. The meeting was held in Albany, New York. (Albany was a frequent meeting site for conventions of colonies when business with the Natives was on the agenda.) Franklin teamed up with Thomas Hutchinson of Massachusetts to write the Albany Plan of Uniona blueprint for a federation of American colonies. The plan was rejected both by the colonies and by the British government. Nevertheless, its general concept and some of its specific language influenced later documents. For example, the chief executive of the proposed federation was the president-general (meaning common president), there was a reference to a house of representatives, and a section that looked a lot like the Constitutions Indian Commerce Clause (part of Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). After the Revolutionary War had commenced but before the Declaration of Independence, Franklin proposed another proto-constitution. This was his Articles of Confederation for the United Colonies of North America. The final Articles of Confederation (drafted in 17761777; effective in 1781) differed from Franklins draft in many ways, but anyone who compares the two documents can see that the later one owed much to its predecessor. Moreover, in 1776, Franklin chaired the convention that drafted the Pennsylvania constitution. The Post Office Before Independence, the American postal system was an integrated part of the British imperial postal system. As noted earlier, Franklin had served as postmaster general for the colonies. After Independence, he became the postmaster general for the Continental Congress. Largely due to his influence, the founding generation retained the pre-existing institution rather than creating a new one. My research article, Founding Era Socialism: The Original Meaning of the Constitutions Postal Clause (pdf), tells the story of the early American post office, Franklins role, and the insertion of the Postal Clause into the Constitution (Article I, Section 8, Clause 7). The Constitutional Convention Some of the framersmen such as John Rutledge and Edmund Randolphsaw many of their specific suggestions incorporated into the Constitution. That wasnt true of Franklin. Still, his contributions at the federal convention were of central importance. To begin with, his encyclopedic knowledge of diplomacy, history, politics, and business provided the other commissioners with a source of reliable information in that pre-internet age. For example, when several delegates supported creating a very strong president with an absolute veto over congressional bills, Franklin tempered their enthusiasm by relating how executives in the Netherlands and colonial Pennsylvania had misused their powers. As was true of Washington, Franklins presence tended to keep the delegates on their best behavior. They were wary of offending the iconic Washington, and they responded to the humor of the witty Franklin. Franklin often used his wit to communicate real-world lessons. James Madison recorded Franklins interjection during a discussion of how to appoint federal judges: Docr. Franklin observed that two modes of chusing [sic] the Judges had been mentioned, to wit, by the Legislature and by the Executive. He wished such other modes to be suggested He would mention one which he had understood was practiced in Scotland. He then in a brief and entertaining manner related a Scotch mode, in which the nomination proceeded from the Lawyers, who always selected the ablest of the profession in order to get rid of him, and share his practice among themselves. The point was, Franklin added, that the Constitution should be written so that whoever appointed the judges had a personal interest in making the best choice. On June 28, 1787, the delegates were particularly fractious. Franklinthe former deist, now a non-denominational theistrecommended a daily invocation by a local clergyman: Sir, he said, the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truththat God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid? His suggestion wasnt adopted, at least in part because the convention had no funds to pay a clergyman. But its impossible to believe that Franklins plea was without effect. Sometimes Franklin reminded his colleagues of basic principles. On July 2, he told them, In free Governments the rulers are the servants, and the people their superiors & sovereignsa view we modern Americans should recall when government treats us as children. The sage of Pennsylvania steadfastly stood up for the rights of the lower classes because he disliked every thing that tended to debase the spirit of the common people. Although the Connecticut delegates (discussed in the next installment in this series) were largely responsible for the Great Compromise, it actually was Franklin who headed the committee that proposed the compromise and moved its adoption. This was the bargain whereby (1) the House of Representatives was to be allocated (mostly) by population, (2) each state was to have two senators, but (3) only the House could initiate revenue bills. Franklins closing remark of the conventionthe famous one about the half-sun on the back of the presiding officers chair being a rising rather than a setting sunhelped inspire the delegates to promote their handiwork to the public. The signatures of Washington and Franklin reassured the voters and the delegates they elected to the state ratifying conventions. More on Franklins Personal Life On Sept. 1, 1730, Franklin married Deborah Read. They raised Franklins illegitimate son William as their own. She presented her husband with a boy, Francis, who died when he was 4, and a daughter, Sarah, who lived until 1808. However, Deborah (unlike Abigail Adams) was afraid of ocean travel and refused to accompany her husband when he went on assignment to Europe. This must have ended their marriage for most purposes. Deborah died of a stroke in 1774. The end of the Constitutional Convention and the expiration of his term as state president the following year represented the close of Franklins political career. He continued to live in Philadelphia, spending much of his time writing and performing scientific experiments. He died of pleurisy on April 17, 1790, age 84. Read prior installments here: first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Back in May of 2022, the attorneys general of Missouri and Louisiana filed a lawsuit (pdf) seeking a preliminary injunction to stop Biden and his administration from colluding with social media giants such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube to suppress free speech. At the time, it had just become known that Biden had set up a Ministry of Truth led by disinformation queen, Nina Jankowicz. Bidens people quickly tried to downplay the Ministry of Truth, but it was too late. Unfortunately, the legal system moves slowly, so it took until now for the free speech case against Biden to reach its preliminary highlight on Friday when both sides got to present their argumentsand we absolutely could not believe our eyes and ears when we saw and heard the governments arguments. Having been caught red-handed, the Biden Regime has decided to double down on illegal state censorship. There Are a Million Reasons to Stay Quiet Commentary This plea is for the legions of doctors, nurses, college administrators, teachers, students, public-sector employees, corporate managers, pharmaceutical employees, laboratory scientists, media professionals, journalists in mainstream news, and tech workers who know where all the bodies are buried, in the metaphorical phrase. They have lived with this knowledge for more than three years. They know the players, the plans, the bureaucratic wrangling, the methods, the lies, the brutality, and the victims. They are holding onto memos, texts, conversations, and unforgettable images in their heads. They are aching to speak. They know that what they saw was wrong. But they are also terrified to speak out. Heres the problem. Its easy to make a principled case for doing the right thing. Its much more difficult to make a practical case. Thats because there are sometimes huge costs that come with standing up, speaking out, turning over documents, telling stories, and revealing truths. They are deeply uncomfortable, even career threatening. You might not win and you might be hounded to the ends of the earth. All your secrets could come out, too. Indeed, there are powerful people who want it to be so, as a lesson to others. These costs are obvious. The benefits are elusive. Thats why its much easier to say nothing. You keep your job, your sanity, your privacy, your relationships, and your professional standing. You can be comfortable. You also join legions of others doing the same thing, and theres safety in those numbers. Keep your head down. You can also convince yourself that by not burning bridges you are in a better position to influence the direction of reform. After alland this is always truethe institution for which you work, whether public or private, isnt all bad. It has plenty of redeemable functions and employees. They deserve credit and a better life lived with integrity. If you dont speak out, you can assist in giving it to them. If you are on the outside, hated and demonized, you will not be in a position to guide necessary reform. At least, that is what you keep telling yourself. And yet, you know in your heart that this isnt really true. There will be no reform without outside pressure. Things will continue as they are unless there is some huge disruption that comes via whistleblowers. The truth is that you just do not want it to be you. You would like it to be someone else. The trouble is that everyone thinks this way. Everyone is positioning themselves and being strategic in their thinking. They are doing what you are doing, which is nothing. The result is that nothing changes. Yes, there is some mild pressure here and there. Courts are after the tech companies, alumni and parents are asking questions of colleges, Congress is bugging the bureaucracies, Substackers are going after Big Media, and consumers are starting to hold corporations to account. The trouble is that it isnt enough. Not enough to make a difference anyway. What is needed are people on the inside with real stories, evidence, anecdotes, and names. People with credibility, on-the-ground experience, and all the receipts. Thats you. You know that you could do it now. Weve never had so many platforms for you to speak. Ever more professions are governed by explicit and implicit rules on secrecy. Everything is proprietary and confidential. Ambitious managers and workers often arent even allowed on social media at all. A veil of confidentiality has affected everything. This has major implications for the capacity of the system itself to right wrongs. Unless individuals are willing to stand up and speak, nothing will change. Our stories of heroism pastthe people who stood for principle and risked everything for what is righttoo often minimize the crucial decision to go ahead. They often make the decision seem like a no-brainer choice between right and wrong. Thats never the case. For example, many of those who are remaining quiet about hospital protocols in early COVID-19, vaccine failures and unjust mandates, censorship of tech, closures of schools, ridiculous protocols, or whatever, have grave personal responsibilities. They have families to feed. They have spouses to protect. They have careers to build and believe that they cant change them. Its easy to preach Do the right thing. Its impossible to give a full and convincing case for why doing this is always a good idea. I will report this, however. In the past three years, among all those people who stuck their necks out to stand up for principle, not one of them I know has any regrets about the decision. Yes, they regret the sleep loss, the derision of colleagues, the hounding press, the threats from above, and the lack of certainty about the future. But once that passed, they all rested with a sense of confidence in their newfound freedom and life of truth. What about jobs? Some of them had to leave their institutions. Some of them faced amazing pressure but survived. Some of them changed careers entirely. But regardless, I dont know one person who has regrets for their decision to blow the whistle. And these days, some of them are already starting to be seen as heroes. As time has passed, the people who stood up against COVID-19 protocols and mandates are more and more being seen for the heroes they are. The scientists who drafted the Great Barrington Declaration faced a hell on earth, and so did many doctors who signed it. But these days, a growing consensus is that they were correct all along. And thats why we are starting to see another round of denunciatory propaganda. There are moments in the 20th century when people stood up at great personal cost but their efforts served the country well and they survived. William F. Buckley Jr. was inspired by Whittaker Chamberss stand for truth in his book Witness and so penned his own expose of Yale University upon graduation. He faced an amazing barrage of hate, but he also built a great career from it. On the personal level, I must say that I feel this, too. For so many months, I felt alone and, yes, faced a barrage of attacks from my first writings in January 2020 and continuing throughout. Many came from people I might otherwise have expected to be allies. But they too were afraid. And yes, I dealt with grim upheavals that hit me hard. But I have no regrets. In the end, Im in a much better position than I was. Someday I might tell the whole story, but not yet. Those who are staying on the sidelines now need to think about the long term. How do they want history to judge them? What would they like to be able to tell their children? Do they want to tell the story of courage or do they want to tell the story of strategic survival? A bigger issue concerns what kind of society we want to live in. Guaranteeing societies of freedom and human rights has always come at a huge cost to the individuals who dare stand up for truth and principle. And, yes, the job can be thankless in many cases. Still, its the right thing to do. It isnt always practical, but its always moral. And over the long term, what is strategic and practical does eventually overlap with what is right and true. There are many truths about the past three years still waiting to be revealed. Its people who must reveal them, people of courage and conviction. You should join them. No one can promise an easy path, but the heros journey was never intended to be a stroll down Easy Street. As Mark Twain said, Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fearnot absence of fear. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Totalitarian Temptations Among Progressive Elites Commentary During a mid-May CBS morning show, host Nate Burleson asked former U.S. President Barack Obama if theres anything about the country that still keeps him up at night. Obama said: The thing that Im most worried about is the degree to which we now have a divided conversation, in part because we have a divided media. When I was coming up, you had three TV stations. And people were getting a similar sense of what is true and what isnt, what was real and what was not. Today, what Im most concerned about is the fact that because of the splintering of the media, we almost occupy different realities. Obamas answer was as distressing as it was predictable. Several conservative news commentators took issue with his response, but he got no push back from Burleson, and was given a complete pass by Americas legacy media. Before the Obama era, Americans had much less patience for infringements on the Bill of Rights. Freedom of the press and freedom of speech were generally regarded as fundamental principles of democracy. Progressives are now inclined to believe that a free press is just another stubborn obstacle for people who should really be developing a similar sense of what is true and what isnt. This is the same troubling inclination that Polish scholar Rysard Legutko called the totalitarian temptation. One can only conclude from the Burleson interview that even former editors of the Harvard Law Review no longer value First Amendment rights. A Dark New Orthodoxy Liberal democrats once had a natural antipathy toward silencing opponents. But, in the early decades of the 21st century, they embraced the same sort of fascist political tactics they now condemn in others. In recent years, those claiming devotion to liberal democracy, multiculturalism, human rights, social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion have been more inclined to support Herbert Marcuses neo-Marxist call for repressive tolerance than the case for free speech posited by 19th-century liberals such as John Stuart Mill. The left now insists that free speech is hate speech. They will go to almost any lengths to obstruct access to facts or ideas that are inconsistent with their woke narrative. Thinkers like Marcuse once elicited powerful anti-communist reactions from liberal Americans. The repression of ideas was considered to be an offense against the common good. Proponents of censorship were regarded as a threat to democracy. Today, a dark new orthodoxy has captured the cultural high ground in the Democratic Party. It calls upon a deluded intelligentsia to defend an intersectional rainbow alliance against imaginary forces of white supremacy, homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia, and a planet-destroying, counter-revolutionary American middle class. To protect American progress against the calumny of the common man, inconvenient truths must be suppressed. Consensus is mandatory and open discourse is out of the question. Hence, whistleblowers exposing political corruption in the FBI are harassed and punished. Citizens are forbidden to read the manifesto of an alleged trans child killer. The legacy media hides scores of illegal migrants, drug-addicted vagrants, and out-of-control criminals from public view. Americans are lied to by the press and their government more often than a trusting wife is deceived by an adulterous husband. Anglo-American Culture Should Remain Adversarial Writing a few years ago for the Adam Smith Institute, British author Madsen Pirie argued that people who worry excessively about living with division know nothing about the merits of English-speaking political history. From the 17th-century Glorious Revolution to modern representative government, Anglo-American democracy has been well served by our adversarial political culture. So has our law and our science, wrote Pirie. We pit parties against each other, facing their opponents in Parliament separated by two sword lengths, not in the horseshoe chambers favoured in continental Europe. The electors make judgements about who wins, and they vote accordingly. Politics can be ill-tempered and divisive. Ideologues often perceive their causes to be so just and imperative that they cannot tolerate opposition. But, ordinary men and women intuitively understand that a culture that encourages debate is superior to regimes that are inquisitional and censorious. Anglo-American political culture should remain as adversarial as it has always been. A truly democratic society is not well-served by autocrats who insist on telling people what they can hear and say. Americans should be wary of taking advice from those who lose sleep over permitting citizens to have a divided conversation about what is true and what isnt. The real truth is, people arent divided and unhappy just because our culture is adversarial. It always has been. People are becoming ill-tempered and resentful because too many politicians have lost their tolerance for dissent and the freely expressed opinions of others. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Trade Union Demands Clarity From Labour Over Halting New Oil and Gas Production The BP ETAP (Eastern Trough Area Project) oil platform in the North Sea, 100 miles east of Aberdeen, Scotland, on Feb. 24, 2014. (Andy Buchanan/AFP/Getty Images) Trade union Unite called on Sir Keir Starmer to clarify that workers will not pay the price should any plan to block new North Sea oil and gas developments be announced by the Labour Party. Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham said on Wednesday that tens of thousands of workers in North Sea and supporting industries should be able to keep their jobs if Labour confirms plans to halt new oil and gas production. Her comments come amid reports that Starmer will set out his net zero energy policy when he launches his latest national mission in Scotland next month. When Keir Starmer decided to let the world know that he would halt new oil and gas production in the North Sea he left out everything that was importantthe detail. Labour must now be very clear that they will not let workers pay the price for the transition to renewable energy. When it comes to jobs we cant have jam tomorrow, said Graham. The Unite boss called for a worker-led transition that would guarantee decent jobs for all involved with no loss of pay and conditions, substantial investment, as well as public ownership and democratic control of the energy industry. She warned against a repeat of the impact the mass closure of the coal mining industry in the UK had on the workers in the second half of the last century. Labour should elaborate on its plans on North Sea oil and gas developments, said Graham, asking for more detail from Starmer. Grabbing the headlines is easy, developing a serious plan for more renewable energy is not, the Unite chief said. Labour will outline plans to invest in green jobs and create a more sustainable energy supply, shadow work and pensions secretary Jonathan Ashworth told Sky News. Well be outlining that in a significant mission in the coming weeks and well be announcing more details then, Ashworth added. Labours Green Prosperity Plan aims to deliver clean, homegrown onshore, offshore, solar, tidal, nuclear and hydrogen so that we can get to net zero quicker and end our reliance on fossil fuel dictators around the world. Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer delivers a speech at the office of UK Finance in central London, on Feb. 27, 2023. (Stefan Rousseau/PA Media) Broken Promises The North Sea Transition Authority recently held a licensing round for oil and gas exploration projects which attracted more than 100 bids. Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mog, who has previously argued it was greener to produce gas domestically than to import it from abroad, said on Wednesday that Britain needs cheap gas for years to come. Shutting down Britains gas and oil production and replacing it with imports is not something that Britons will accept, argued David Whitehouse, chief executive of the trade association Offshore Energies UK. Everyone is clear that the energy system must change but business and government must do this in partnership. Labours approach risks sending the wrong signals. Labours proposals are also very unclear, especially on costs. Our sector now needs clarity on the detail of Labours plans including analysis on what they mean for jobs, energy security, imports, and Britains overall economy, Whitehouse said in a statement. Scottish Conservatives called Starmers plan for the sector nothing short of a gut punch to the tens of thousands of Scots who rely on the industry for work. Labours commitment to ban new oil and gas development recklessly puts over 90,000 Scottish jobs at risk and could devastate communities in the North East. The Scottish Tories are the only party willing to stand up for Scotlands oil and gas workers, the party said on Twitter. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak backed new oil and gas exploration. Natural gas is part of Britains transition to net zero, Sunak told a press conference in February. And in the process of getting from here to there, if we can get investment in the North Sea that supports British jobs, thats a good thing. So that has to be part of the mix as well, Sunak said. Utilising Britains North Sea reserves where needed and powering ahead with British innovation in renewables will safeguard the UKs national strategy, according to Energy Secretary Grant Shapps. His Labour counterpart accused the Conservatives of making Britain more dependent on fossil fuels and blocking cheap renewables. Shadow secretary of state for climate change Ed Miliband argued that Labour has a plan to cut bills for good through delivering clean power by 2030. This will make the UK an energy superpower, creating thousands of good jobs, providing real energy security with homegrown clean power, and showing the climate leadership our country wants, Miliband said on Wednesday. However, Unite has warned that Britains recent economic history is littered with political betrayals and broken promises that have left industrial workers on the scrap heap. Graham said Unite was developing its own plan for just transition in the North Sea. US Lacks Effective Tool to Stop Chinas Tech Theft: Treasury Official Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping (C) and Chinese and foreign naval officials applaud after a group photo during an event to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy in Qingdao, in eastern China's Shandong province, on April 23, 2019. (Mark Schiefelbein/AFP via Getty Images) WASHINGTONThe United States lacks an effective tool to adequately combat widespread espionage and intellectual property theft being perpetrated by Chinas communist regime, according to a U.S. Treasury Department official. Despite years of competition and ongoing IP theft, the United States has not developed the tools required to target and prevent the continued transfer of sensitive U.S. technologies to China, according to Assistant Secretary of the Treasury Paul Rosen. We currently assess we dont have an effective tool to target the money and sophistication with know-how that goes into these sensitive and most critical technologies into countries of concern, Rosen said during a May 31 hearing of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. We risk leaving a gap in terms of some of our national security concerns, he said. Rosen added that the Biden administration was committed to zealously defending U.S. security interests, and would prioritize those interests over economic development if necessary, but required more tools to do so. The United States will secure our interests and those of our allies and partners, Rosen said. We will not compromise on national security concerns, even when they force trade-offs with economic interests. Rosens remarks confirm expert testimony delivered to Congress last year, which stated that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is engaged in anti-competitive and anti-free market practices on a global scale, and that the United States lacks adequate non-security tools to defend its interests. Policies That Benefited Corporate Profits Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), the committee chair, said that the United States had fostered a system of policies over the course of several decades that had strengthened China at the expense of the American people. The nations current struggles to counter China, he said, are owed to policies that benefited corporate profits instead of American well-being. For far too long, our policy around China catered to multinational corporations and failed working families. It destroyed local communities, it eroded our manufacturing base and international competitiveness, Brown said. Brown added that U.S. policymakers knew corporations would terminate millions of U.S. jobs in favor of dirt cheap labor in China, but still granted the regime permanent most-favored trade status in the 1990s. Since then, he said, consecutive administrations had failed to correct the imbalance in Chinas favor. As such, he said, the risks posed by the Chinese Communist Party demanded immediate action. We all agree China is a real and growing threat. Our committee must play a leadership role in countering that threat, Brown said. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), ranking member of the committee, agreed with the assessment, but warned that the United States was perversely encouraging companies to build in China while discouraging business at home due to excessive regulations. While IP theft, unfair trade practices, and other efforts to erode American innovation were a threat, Scott said, the United States must also do more to compel tech companies to build their operations in the United States instead of transferring them to China. There should never be a world where a company finds China easier to do business [with], or a better business environment, he said. Efforts to advance national security will never succeed if the government undermines the economic security and economic opportunities of everyday Americans. Weapons of mass destruction may be on the table for a certain Indo-Pacific island. Reports say Taiwan could be in talks to come under Washingtons nuclear umbrella. That would trigger the United States to retaliate in kind if Taiwan were to come under nuclear attack from Beijing. For decades, the U.S. nuclear umbrella has shielded Japan, South Korea, and Australia. There are mixed reactions to the reported proposal, with some saying it would help boost Taiwans security while others are more cautious. Topics in this episode: U.S. Nuclear Umbrella to Cover Taiwan? Musk: Tesla Wishes to Expand Business in China Expert: Elon Musks Bet on China China Rejects Meeting with U.S. Defense Chief Mexico: in Talks with China to Fight Fentanyl Chinese Warship Sails Through Taiwan Strait China Urges Japan to Halt Chip Export Controls Whats at Stake in U.S.-China Race to the Moon? Need to Meet Chinas Space Ambitions: Analyst Seoul Hosts First Korea-Pacific Islands Summit A 14-Year Fight for Justice: Daughter Petitions Over Mothers Death in Black Jail Nury Turkel on the Chinese Regimes War on Faith China in Focus is sponsored by Preserve Gold. Click here to claim your $200 and 1% cash-back in free gold and silver*: http://offers.preservegold.com/ntd Virginia Man Arrested in Murder of GOP Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour (left) Rashid Ali Bynum of Portsmouth, Virginia, in a booking photo. (Courtesy of Middlesex County Prosecutors Office); (right) New Jersey GOP Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour. (Courtesy of Sayreville Borough Council) A suspect has been arrested and charged in connection with the murder of a New Jersey councilwoman who was found dead with multiple gunshot wounds in her car in February, a prosecutor confirmed on Tuesday. Rashid Ali Bynum, a 28-year-old man from Portsmouth, Virginia, was arrested by state and federal agents outside a residence in Chesapeake City, Virginia, at about 10:45 a.m. on May 30, Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone said at a news conference. Bynum has been charged with first-degree murder, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun, and possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose in the Feb. 1 murder of Eunice Dwumfour, a 30-year-old Republican councilwoman in Sayreville. The suspect awaits extradition to New Jersey where he will be held at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Facility pending a pre-trial detention hearing. This was a very complex extensive case with painstaking police work, Ciccone told the briefing. The murder has shaken the community, and no arrest will bring back the late councilwoman. However, I do trust that justice will be found through the criminal justice process. Bynum was linked to Dwumfours death after detectives traced his travels from his cellphone and vehicle location data, the prosecutor said. He also matched a suspect description given by a witness in Sayreville, where Dwumfour had served on the council for about a year. Eunice Dwumfour in a still image from video released by NTD. (NTD) On the day of the murder, Bynum searched the internet for details related to Dwumfours church. The suspect was also listed in her phone contacts under that groups acronym. A search of the victims phone revealed Bynum as a contact in Eunice Dwumfours phone with the acronym FCF, Ciccone said. FCF is believed to be an acronym for the Fire Congress Fellowship, a church the victim was previously affiliated with, which is also associated with the Champion Royal Assembly, the victims church at the time of her death. Dwumfour was a pastor in a Nigeria-based prosperity gospel church called the Champions Royal Assembly. She got married in Nigeria last year to a fellow pastor from the capital city of Abuja. She was also an officer of a related entitythe Fire Congress Fellowshipwhich has a branch in Virginia. Tuesdays announcement came nearly four months after she was gunned down in her white SUV outside her rented townhome. Her 11-year-old daughter heard the shots from inside. Motive Unclear Dwumfour, who grew up in Newark, had lived in Virginia at one point, and family lawyer John Wisniewski said Bynum had lived in Sayreville. But beyond that, he did not know the nature of their relationship, and Ciccone declined to discuss a possible motive. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said in an interview a day after the Feb. 1 incident that the murder did not appear to be politically motivated, but he noted at the time that there was very little that is known right now. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy gives a victory speech to supporters at Grand Arcade at the Pavilion in Asbury Park, N.J., on Nov. 3, 2021. (Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/Getty Images) I spoke to the GOP chair in both Sayreville and Middlesex County, as well as the commissioner director in Middlesex County, Murphy told New York-based radio outlet WNYC on Feb. 2. It does not appear to be related to her position as an elected councilwoman in Sayreville. Sayreville Mayor Victoria Kilpatricka political ally who decided not to run for reelection after the slaying remained unsolvedsaid she also took a degree of comfort from reports that the killing did not appear to be politically motivated. However, she said she was troubled by the apparent link to a church to which Dwumfour was deeply devoted. The fact that it was connected to that component of her life is even more saddening to me because you look to God for light and protection. So to know that that was the connection hurts, but at the same time, evil can lurk anywhere, she said. Dwumfours father learned of the arrest just ahead of Tuesdays press briefing and declined to comment afterward. While the family welcomes the arrest, they have even more questions today than there were before, Wisniewski said. We have an alleged murderer in custody in Virginia, but now they are trying to also understand the relationship, how this person came to target Eunice, what was the rationale, he said. Dwumfour graduated from William Paterson University and worked as a certified business analyst and scrum professional, according to TAPinto.net. She was elected to her first three-year term in 2021 when she ousted a Democratic incumbent. Colleagues of the Republican councilwoman recalled her as a soft-spoken devout Christian who could maintain her composure in contentious situations. Community Response Shortly after Dwumfours death, friends of the councilwoman posted tributes on social media, saying the shooting shocked [and] scared them. [Dwumfour] was killed 300 feet from my home this evening. She was shot while returning back home. She was a woman full of life, said Mahesh Chitnis, a member of Sayrevilles Human Relations Commission (HRC), of which Dwumfour was also a member. In a statement on Feb. 2, the New Jersey Republican Party remembered Dwumfour for her steadfast dedication to the community, as well as her deep and abiding Christian faith. I would like to express our horror and deepest sorrow at the senseless violence that claimed the life of Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour, said Bob Hugin, chairman of the committee. Detective Juan Rodriguez and Pastor Doctor Nelia Rodriguez, both HRC members, said in a joint statement that Dwumfour was a woman of God and they were heartbroken after hearing about the murder. She was an amazing friend, a woman who loved God, the statement reads. I just saw her this morning at the store. I remember saying to her I [sic] see you at the HRC meeting tomorrow not knowing tonight was going to be the end of her life. I cant stop crying. She was 30 years young and full of life. You will be missed my dear, precious friend. The Associated Press contributed to this report. From NTD News Virginia, West Virginia Governors Sending National Guard Troops to Texas Border Texas Army National Guard look on as illegal immigrants board a bus after surrendering to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Border Patrol agents for immigration and asylum claim processing following the end of Title 42 on the U.S.-Mexico border in El Paso, Texas, on May 12, 2023. (Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images) The governors of Virginia and West Virginia are the latest Republican state leaders to announce deployments of National Guard troops to assist Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts border security efforts. On Wednesday morning, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced he would deploy 100 of his states National Guard troops to Texas. The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state, Youngkin said. As leadership solutions at the federal level fall short, states are answering the call to secure our southern border, reduce the flow of fentanyl, combat human trafficking and address the humanitarian crisis. Following a briefing from Governor Abbott last week, Virginia is joining other states to deliver on his request for additional assistance. In a Wednesday morning press conference, West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice also announced he would deploy 50 of his states National Guard troops to Texas. I know our National Guard will do incredible work, and well wish them Godspeed to get home safe and sound, Justice said. I thank them all for their incredible bravery and for stepping up yet again to answer the call. Abbott has been using Texas state resources in recent months in a mission to stem the flow of illegal border crossings into the country. In recent weeks, Texas National Guard troops and Department of Public Safety officers have been seen setting up razor fences and turning back people attempting to cross from Mexico into Texas illegally. Abbott has stepped up this border security effort after President Joe Bidens administration ended the federal Title 42 immigration policy on May 11. Following the outbreak of COVID-19, U.S. officials had used Title 42 authorities to rapidly turn away and expel illegal immigrants under public health justifications. On May 16, 24 Republican governors signed a letter pledging to support Abbotts border security effort, including Youngkin and Justice. Since then, several Republican governors have deployed their state National Guard troops and state police resources to assist border control efforts. Other States Sending Troops Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was among the first Republican governors to pledge specific resources to Abbotts border security mission. On May 16, DeSantis announced his state would send 800 Florida National Guard soldiers, 200 Florida Department of Law Enforcement officers, 20 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers, and 20 Emergency Management personnel to Texas. DeSantis also pledged five fixed-wing aircraft, two mobile command vehicles, 17 unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), and 10 watercraft. On May 17, Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves announced an unspecified number of troops from the Mississippi National Guards 112th Military Police Battalion would deploy to assist U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers and agents along the southwest border. On May 24, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee announced he had authorized the deployment of 100 Tennessee National Guard troops to the border. Lee said these troops would patrol and provide an added security presence at the border, help staff outposts, and assist in road and route clearance, barrier placement, and debris removal. America continues to face an unprecedented border crisis that threatens our nations security and the safety of Tennesseans, Lee said of the deployment. The federal government owes Americans a plan to secure our country, and in the meantime, states continue to answer this important call to service, Lee added. I am again authorizing the Tennessee National Guard to help secure the Southern border, and I commend these troops for providing critical support. On May 24, Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen also announced he would send 10 Nebraska state troopers to Texas to assist Abbotts border security mission. Post-Title 42 Border Policies Before the end of Title 42, the Biden administration implemented a policy (pdf) disqualifying people from applying for asylum in the United States if they didnt first seek protection in countries they passed through on their way to the United States. The Biden administration has also developed a parole program that allows immigrants to enter and work in the United States for up to two years. The Biden-era rules state that those who still ignore the border and illegally cross will be returned and disqualified from future entry under the parole program. In the days before Title 42 ended, the Biden administration authorized the deployment of up to 1,500 U.S. military personnel to assist Border Patrol for up to 90 days. Pentagon press secretary Gen. Pat Ryder said those troops being deployed at the federal level would not directly participate in law enforcement activities but would assist federal border officials with ground-based detection and monitoring, data entry, and warehouse support until CBP can address these needs through contracted support. While federal border authorities and officials in border communities have braced for a surge in border crossings, its not entirely clear that such a surge has emerged since the end of Title 42. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the number of illegal immigrants encountered at the southern border fell by about 50 percent in the first three days after Title 42 expired compared to the traffic in the days leading up to the end of the policy. From NTD News Watchdog Warns Businesses Are Misleading People Into Buying Net Zero Greenwashing Products More than a third of the UKs gas is burned to heat homes. (Joe Giddens/PA) A report by the UKs consumer protection regulator has found some businesses in the green heating and insulation sector are engaged in concerning practices that may mislead consumers into thinking products are more environmentally friendly or greener than they are. On Wednesday, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said that it found that businesses in the sector, particularly those offering heat pumps or solar products, commonly make claims about their products cost-saving, environmental, and/or energy efficiency benefits. It added that it will be carrying out further work looking into potential misleading practices in the green heating and insulation sector. Greenwashing The CMA warned that consumers face difficulty finding and accessing reliable, trusted, and independent advice for households looking to install heat pumps as well as solar products. For example, claims that 100 percent of their electricity bill can be cut or that people can reduce their heating costs by at least 60 percent and cut CO2 emissions by up to 50 percent. It looked at a range of evidence to understand business practices, including over 1,000 business websites. It added that greenwashing and misleading messaging about hydrogen-capable boilers were of concern as they may fool consumers into thinking that these products are more environmentally friendly or greener than they are. The body also found evidence, for example, of several large businesses explicitly marketing boilers as hydrogen-blend or hydrogen-ready which may give the incorrect impression that the use of hydrogen is imminent and that specific environmental benefits can only be obtained from these boilers and not standard gas boilers. We want people to have confidence when they buy green heating technologies and home insulation. Its essential they get what they paid for and that energy efficiency and sustainability claims are fair and accurate, said George Lusty, senior director for Consumer Protection at the CMA. While many businesses will be operating in the best interests of their customers, some businesses appear to be misleading people into buying their products. This needs to stop, he added. We will now be exploring these concerns further, including whether to take enforcement action, said Lusty. Net Zero The UK has signed into law a policy to achieve net zero by 2050 with the Conservative government setting out a strategy called Build Back Greener to decarbonise all sectors of the UK economy. It faces the phasing out of petrol and diesel cars and gas boilers and calls from statutory bodies like the Climate Change Committee to cut meat by 20 percent in 2030 and by 35 percent by 2050. According to its Heat Pump Investment Roadmap strategy, released in April, reducing the UKs carbon emissions to Net Zero by 2050 means it must decarbonise the heating of over 30 million homes across the UK in a little over 25 years. There are targets that want 52 percent of British homes to be provided by low-carbon sources, of which 52 percent will be from heat pumps, which run on electricity and work like a fridge in reverse to extract energy from the air or ground. Heat Pumps Roger Bisby is an English television presenter who runs the YouTube channel SkillBuilder and is known for his expertise in the British building industry. In 2021, he warned in the DailyMail, that UK families who fit heat pumps often find their electricity bills double or treble; the noisy heat pumps drive them to distraction; their house is colder; their shower lukewarm and in all too many cases they wish they could get their old gas boiler back. He said that few people seem to realise that it is pointless to install a heat pump unless your house is extremely well-insulated and draught-proofed to keep it airtight. Bisby told The Epoch Times that attempts to regulate heat pump industries have been fraught with problems. He said that appealing to peoples social and environmental consciences is the sell. I think that the consensus now is moving towards saying that they are not necessarily going to save any money over a gas boiler running a heat pump, he said. By the time you have insulated your house and done all the other things, the capital investment, then its a very long time before you show any return on any of that and they are trying to stop them from selling heat pumps on that basis, he added. Costs In May, the charity Citizens Advice estimated that the average cost of improving the energy efficiency of a home or transitioning to low carbon heat is just under 15,000. Installing insulation can cost several thousand pounds (depending on where in the home it is installed) and an air source heat pump can be upwards of 8,000. The average price of solar panels ranges from 6,000 to 11,000. The report highlighted that while almost two in five homeowners have over 20,000 in savings, one in two have less than 10,000, and over 1 in 10 have no savings. To reach the governments net zero targets almost all homes will require some level of retrofit which will mean significant changes to almost every home but for many homeowners, there is currently limited financial support. We Hope Freedom Will Come Someday for Tibet, Democratic China, and Hong Kong Commentary I have become an accidental activist since the Occupy Central/ Umbrella Movement days of 20132014 in Hong Kong. With political persecution getting more intense in the once-famed financial city, I have stepped out of my comfort zone and spoken vehemently on human rights and democracy over the last ten years. Do not get me wrong. I did not go to every demonstration or protest when Hong Kong still allowed it; I would instead use the pen to contribute writing at Hong Kong local publications like the Hong Kong Economic Journal (HKEJ), the Apple Daily, and the internet radio platform of D100 Radio, voice out the social and political concerns of the city. My first taste of self-censorship and political interference came when HKEJ axed my weekly opinion column at the beginning of September 2014, after it had been running for years since 2007, weeks before the Occupy Central movement started. I was then warned by the editor-in-chief at HKEJ that I should write more about finance and investments, but not politics. I got the warning two weeks before HKEJ axed my final column contribution in the summer of 2014. Unlike the Occupy event in the United States, which condemned the ruling class and corporate greed, Hong Kong people demanded genuine autonomy under the framework of one country, two systems during Occupy Central in the city. Together with what we later called the Umbrella Movement, Hong Kong had 79 days of Occupy Event. The demands of Hong Kong people for a genuine election without pre-screening were never met. Beijing has never wanted to give real freedom and autonomy to Hong Kong people. For those interested in drilling deeper inside the press freedom situation of Hong Kong, let me give you an update on the fate of HKEJ. Like many other local media in Hong Kong, the majority must toe the Party Line now under the National Security Law ( NSL). The founder of the HKEJ newspaper, Lam Shan Muk (), an influential columnist in the city, stopped contributing his opinion column a few years ago. The newspaper has not been controlled by Lam Shan Muk since 2006. There is believed to be no more room for objective criticism in Hong Kong or free speech. Influential columnists were told to stop writing, or they just quit due to political pressure. One can easily find the deterioration of free speech in Hong Kong, as witnessed by reports written by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) or other outlets that monitor free speech and press freedom in different countries. It is obvious to see the extreme makeover when news agencies are also relocated from Hong Kong to Taiwan for security reasons. I continued to write for Apple Daily and Next Magazine, both controlled by the now-dissolved Next Digital, founded by entrepreneur Jimmy Lai. As most of us from Hong Kong still vividly recall, Lais media group was shut down by brute force in 2021 by the Hong Kong government, with Beijings backing. The last print copy of Apple Daily came out on June 24, 2021. The English editor in charge of Apple Daily was arrested at the airport on June 26, 2021. Among the other arrests, another five in the senior management and editorial board of Apple Daily are still being detained for more than two years and waiting for trial. The totalitarian regime will put the Apple Daily Seven, including Lai, on trial in September. As a contributing writer for Apple Daily, I made the tough decision of relocating outside of Hong Kong in June 2021 to continue to write and voice out fearlessly. The Epoch Times is one platform to continue reaching the audience with the real Hong Kong story, and I am happy to be part of it. Another platform to reach out is through my YouTube channel@EdChinWorld, for those who want to understand the actual Hong Kong situation. I believe the calling now is to support the diaspora community of Hong Kong, speaking loudly for those that are unjustly detained and imprisoned because of the NSL. This has become my highest purpose since leaving the city. We cannot have a pretense that Hong Kong is back to normal when the most compassionate, spirited, and loving people of Hong Kong are jailed because they believe in freedom and democracy. Do not forget the sons and daughters of this city, activists from all disciplines: teachers, students, entrepreneurs, lawyers, social workers, legislators, and district councilors of Hong Kong. They have sacrificed their freedom, and we need to support them. It is also our fight: we, the people of the free world. Otherwise, Hong Kong will never be free again if we all give up. As we approach the 34th commemoration of the June 4 Tiananmen massacre, let me recall stories of what happened in 1959, 1989, and 2019 in chronological sequence: focusing on the sufferings of Tibet, the tragedy of Tiananmen, and the fight of Hong Kong. This is all from a Hongkonger perspective to the best of my recollection and research. The Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) way of suppressing and monitoring its people has been more than surreal, especially for those who are of ethnic minorities. Take the Panchen Lama as an example, the second most important religious figure in Tibetan culture after the Dalai Lama. The CCP took away the 11th Panchen Lama at the age of six, and has remained in Chinas custody for over 27 years. The then boy now must be a 32 years old man if he is still alive. Tibetan issues might seem far too distinct for Hongkongers to fathom, but in terms of suppression and the fall, there are a lot of similarities. Tibet was a country that got annexed, and the spiritual leader, the 14th Dalai Lama, had to flee Tibet from the CCP arrests in 1959. Tibetans outside Tibet were able to rebuild the Tibetan government in exile in India, but the population was small. When the Dalai Lama fled in 1959, around 80,000 Tibetans were able to follow. Interaction from the Tibetan diaspora, a community estimated at less than 100,000, especially with those living in New York and Toronto, after the great escape of 1959 and until now have been heard in the international community, especially during the Tibetan Uprising in March each year. March 10 of every year since 1959 has become a headache to the CCP, as the Tibetan people and the free world are reminded of the atrocities of the CCP. As a Hongkonger, I understand the Tibet story as follows: Tibetans have been in exile since 1959. Around six million Tibetans lived inside Tibet during the time that the 14th Dalai Lama fled 64 years ago: 1.2 million of the Tibetan population out of the six million were executed by the CCP, a form of ethnic genocide since the occupation. The 14th Dalai Lama (1935-present) remains an important voice for the Tibetan people and mankind. Tibetans these days still have vivid memories of how they lost their country: the religion, the uprising, and the selfless sacrifice of Tibetans through self-immolation: to remind the whole world that they are still fighting for their freedom. To the CCP, purging the Dalai Lamas memories from the Tibetans and demonizing him is part of their dirty job. Tibetans, however, could not be easily brainwashed. That said, some people believe that the Dalai Lama, at 87, is approaching the end of his life, but the true Tibetan story will prevailthe Tibetan race and suffering will not be forgotten. Let us fast forward 30 years to focus on the Tiananmen massacre in 1989. When this opinion piece is out, we will approach the 34th Tiananmen suppression in 1989. The political atmosphere is tense in Hong Kong, and as expected, with the imposition of the NSL for almost three years now, the city has been silenced. The Hong Kong Alliance, which organized the Tiananmen Memorial at Victoria Park in Hong Kong for over three decades, was forcefully dissolved by Hong Kong and the CCP. The CCP has now made it clear that any large-scale gathering is a big no-no, and communist Hong Kongs protest or public assembly treatment is no different from the rest of communist China. Those who tried to enter Victoria Park over the last few years after 2019 have already paid a hefty pricethe key organizers of the Hong Kong Alliance are either serving prison terms or are detained, something no one would have imagined in the past. It is tragic to see Hong Kongs autonomy fading so quickly that the Tiananmen suppression from 34 years ago would not be commemorated in the city. While there are distinct differences between people from Hong Kong and those from China, we see a lot of similarities now between the prisoners of conscience in communist China and those in Hong Kong. The demands of Hong Kong people cannot be heard, and those who try will be heavily punished. That has been the same for China. Hong Kong people and those inside China are all fighting against the evil totalitarian regime. Former paramount leader Deng Xiao Ping was a man of controversy. After the Tiananmen massacre, people looked at this strong man in a different light. Deng came up with the idea of economic reforms that attracted foreign investments. And with that should come law and order that the international community would trust. After the Hong Kong 1997 handover to China, Deng promised that horse racing continues, dancers still dance, and one could criticize the CCP, and even if you do, the Party will not topple. Fast forward the clock a few decades. In the 2023 context, it is evident that Dengs idea of keeping Hong Kong autonomous from the rest of communist China failed badly. The CCP even disqualified Dengs idea of keeping Hong Kong free for 50 years. Under Xi Jinping, Hong Kong has entered a dark age, which doesnt need further elaboration. Things get darker each day for Hong Kong, and there is no point in reminiscing about the glory days of our colonial past. We should all continue to speak very loud for Tibet, Tiananmen, and Hong Kong. There is no shortage of information that can be extracted from the web about the wrongdoings of the communist tyranny of China, of its wrongdoings in 1959, 1989, and 2019. My final message is: we all hope that freedom will come to Tibet, Hong Kong, and a democratic China someday. (Edward Chin () runs a family office. Chin was formerly the Country Head of a publicly listed UK hedge fund, the largest of its kind measured by asset under management. Outside the hedge funds space, Chin is the Convenor of the 2047 Hong Kong Monitor and a Senior Advisor of Reporters Without Borders (RSF, HK & Macau). Chin studied speech communication at the University of Minnesota and received his MBA from the University of Toronto. Twitter: edwardckchin Youtube: Ed Chin Channel Facebook.com/edckchin Email: edckchin@gmail.com) Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. When Will There Be a New Global Order? European Council President Charles Michel, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, French President Emmanuel Macron, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, U.S. President Joe Biden, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pose for a group photo after laying flower wreaths at the Cenotaph for Atomic Bomb Victims in the Peace Memorial Park on the sidelines of the G-7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, on May 18, 2023. (Franck Robichon - Pool/Getty Images) Commentary The U.S.-dominated rules-based world order is, for the moment, dead, or at least moving into abeyance after its three-quarters of a century lifespan. The current global strategic architecturethe framework of states and their political alignmentsalong with all the accepted norms that sustain the balance of power, has already transformed to the point where all strategic presumptions must be reconsidered. A rules-based world order is a historical reflection of the power structure of any given age. The current iteration is essentially the first time the phrase world order has been used, and the implication is that it is an order that was essentially a universally-agreed regime, a framework of behavior covered by international law. While it has nominally been a framework agreed upon by the United Nations, this rules-based world order was essentially defined by the Western states that won World War II, particularly by the United States. The USSR, one of the Allied victors of that war, was included in the initial framework of the U.N. but rapidly became less influential in the rules-based world order. We saw earlier iterations of regional or global dominance that extended beyond the bounds of empire: Pax Romana, Pax Britannica, and Pax Americana. Each paxor peacehas been the imposition of the dominant powers control over trading routes, currency modalities or dominance, and inter-state management rules. These various periods of overwhelming dominance by a single patron have usually been regional, as we could have named a Pax Sovietica in Eastern Europe and the old Russian Empire regionsand elsewhere in the worldfrom 1945 to 1990. But it was with Pax Britannica that a global structure began to emerge, and it was consumed and consolidated by Pax Americana as the tacitly-agreed successor to the British Empire. Understanding this evolution is critical to comprehending where the world will move next. The attendant creature organizations of the present order, such as the U.N., have already moved into ineffectual status. They provided only a figleaf of protection or legitimacy to societies. The results of a General Assembly vote on a resolution are shown on a screen during a special session of the General Assembly at the United Nations headquarters in New York on March 2, 2022. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images) The League of Nations, founded in 1919 with the same purpose as the U.N., became a phantom organization when it failed in 1935 to stop the Italian invasion of Ethiopia. The league, like the U.N., was to have been an instrument to create the post-World War I rules-based world order; it had little success, but it provided the vehicle to start the move from Pax Britannica to Pax Americana. And Pax Americana assumedwithout the cost and labored time of empire-buildingthe mantle of the British-dominated era. Few appreciated the magnitude of the bequest. So the world moved seamlessly, with World War II in particular, from Pax Britannica to Pax Americana. The crumbling now of Pax Americana has not been determined by an aspirant power to create a new global dominance system. It has largely been determined by the exhaustion of the U.S. and Western systems. Yes, Beijing has visions of a new Pax Sinica, going much more comprehensively into the world than the Han Dynasty (202 B.C.220 A.D.). That earlier Pax Sinica covered much of East Asia. It is too early to determine whether Pax Americana might transform into something new or whether this present period of tenuous primus inter paresfirst among equals, to which Pax Americana has degeneratedlong prevails for the United States to dominate the structure of global rules. There is still incredulity within much of the U.S. polity that the U.S. era is transforming, just as there was (and in some areas remains) incredulity in some British circles that Pax Britannica has slipped away. Even within some Turkish circles, there is the belief that modern Turkey retains the same international authority once enjoyed by the Ottomans, whose remaining vestiges of regional dominance were crushed finally with World War I. What remains after each of these great eras, however, are dreams of past greatness. There are today, however, no certain or clear rising powers. Indeed, the rising power is not communist China, although a number of the traditional major powers are in a state of strategic flux: the United States, the European powers (including the United Kingdom), Russia, Japan, and China. India, in particular, is attempting to evolve into a major regional power, covering the Indian Ocean and South and Central Asia. But the inter-pax eras have always been clouded and mired in inertia. The mists clear only gradually. The move to a new global cold war structureCold War IIbegan when successive U.S. and allied governments began re-isolating Russia in some simplistically-based reflection of Cold War I. This was crystallized with the denouement of the Russia-Ukraine wars kinetic explosion of February 2022. There is no going back from this, and the scramble then was for many states (including China and Russia) to claim or reclaim older or even ancient territorial blocs of alliances, trading partners, and security dependencies. The reshaping of the G-7 (Group of Seven richest nations) to exclude China and Russia was part of this, as was the May gathering of the leaders of the five Central Asian states in Xian, China, attempting to pull those statesformerly dominated by the Russian and Soviet empiresinto Beijings orbit. (L-R) Chinas leader Xi Jinping, Kazakhstans President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kyrgyzstans President Sadyr Japarov, Uzbekistans President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Tajikistans President Emomali Rahmon, and Turkmenistans President Serdar Berdymukhamedov arrive for the joint press conference of the China-Central Asia Summit in Xian, in Chinas northern Shaanxi Province, on May 19, 2023. (Florence Lo/Pool/AFP via Getty Images) The restructuring of the global balance is creating a system already vastly different from Cold War I in terms of geopolitical alignments. It will be primarily determined by a return to fluid power projection modalities more akin to those of the 19th century rather than the 20th century. It is a return to the competition between the maritime and heartland powers, with eachas in earlier historycompeting to gain footholds in the others domain. Traditional heartland or land-oriented continental powers attempt to gain the capability to project maritime power. Traditional maritime powers attempt to gain land-based power projection. But the availability of air and space power projection is open to all. The combined logistical capability across the military and civilian spectra created the transition in the 20th century from Pax Britannica to Pax Americana and sustained and compounded U.S. dominance of the global supply chain. The Royal Navy had similarly and earlier ensured the acquisition and maintenance of Pax Britannica, moving into the beginnings of the age of air power. Still, air power dominance and then space dominance essentially secured the transition, supported by the literal transfer of maritime space from Britain to the United States. In the past, global dominance necessitated the primacy of true maritime power. By the mid-20th century, it required both maritime and air power. By the start of the 21st century, it was already clear that it required maritime, air, and space dominance. And all of this must be consolidated by terrestrial power to control domestic populations, to ensure that global or strategic power is not hollow at home. Global dominance must also be knitted together by a psychological strategy to achieve and consolidate internal and external meaning and prestige to the physical dominance. Little wonder that China, to a far more conscious degree than its former frenemy, the USSR, has deliberately planned a global strategy over recent decades to put in place the core framework of global supply chain assets, particularly in the form of managing, owning, and controlling ports around the world: in Southeast Asia, Australasia, Oceania, Indian Ocean rim, Latin America, West and East Africa, Mediterranean, Atlantic, and so on. Similarly, China has attempted to surpass the West and Russia in controlling space. A key aspect of this is that China has thought about what it takes to create a new Pax Sinica. The Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) specific declaration of war on the United States in 2018 was couched expressly in those terms but was completely ignored or misunderstood in the West. Essentially, CCP leader Xi Jinping said in September 2018 that it was already waging a new Thirty Years War against the United States, drawing a parallel with the earlier Thirty Years War, which ended in 1648 with the Peace of Westphalia. He indicated that the new Peace of Westphalia wouldas the original didcreate a new global framework and rules-based world order, but this time based on Beijings control of the rules. A man stands underneath the pillars displaying Chinese leader Xi Jinpings signature China Dream and One Belt, One Road foreign policy plan during an event in Beijing on June 29, 2018. (Andy Wong/AP) Most Western strategists and analysts have forgotten the origins of the modern rules-based world order and how the Treaty or Peace of Westphalia shaped agreement on its architecture. Subsequent conflictsparticularly World War I and World War IIshaped how that would evolve through Pax Britannica and Pax Americana and how the first Cold War (1945-90) confirmed Pax Americana. By then, the United States had taken its global domination of the supply chain, politics, and wealth for granted. China did not take it for granted and had, particularly during the post-Mao Zedong eras, attempted to emulate through planned actions what had either evolved organically for the United States or also had, in part, been handed to it on a plate from the strategic space bequeathed reluctantly to it by an exhausted Britain. It may be fair to say that, after a wasting slumber of almost a century, Britain is now reawakened and contemplating the reconstruction of its strength. What, then, can we expect of the future? The current period of inertia has been underway for more than a decade. It could conceivably last another decade or two or be interrupted by an accidental discharge of violence, desperation, or a sense of opportunity. Such events as the start of actual hostilities between Russia and Ukraine in February 2022 are punctuation in the process. It would not be unreasonable to characterize the present position as akin to being in an aircraft on the edge of a stall, hanging without power after running out of the energy to climb, awaiting the sickening fall of the nose and the start of a spiraling descent. The first obligation in a situation of imminent danger or lack of control is to regain control of immediate surroundings and to stop the economic and political descent. Someone (in each society) has to assert clear control. The longer that lack of clarity prevails or for discussion to be diverted onto tactical topics, the more disadvantage accrues to society. The second obligation, having stabilized the decline and having acquired a revival of economic power, is to begin to regain spatial awarenessstrategic situational awarenessto determine how to defend against a collision with foreign powers and identify opportunities for national reassertion. In tomorrows world, this will require the acquisition, or reacquisition, of effective and assertive maritime and air/space power, including the hybrid areas of missile warfare in space, atmospheric, and undersea realms. The dominance of the seaways, airways, and space cannot be taken for granted and requires conscious integrated strategic planning. Space has long since ceased to be a neutral zone. Given that the global and regional systems are in a state of flux as a result of the end of Cold War I, it requires navies and air forces that are geared to assertive dominance, married to corresponding civil logistical infrastructure and capabilities, as well as to markets, to transform maritime, air, and space dominance into the umbrella for trade dominance: wealth and economic security. And today, it is then essential that space dominance provide secure support to the communications, situational awareness, and energy/manufacturing processes critical today to make air, maritime, and ground dominance possible. Thus, command of advanced cyber/computing capabilities is no longer optional, particularly in societies heavily dependent on credit-based economies. This integrated strategic planning is absent from all Western power centers; indeed, it is absent from virtually all lesser powers. It requires a conscious framing of a national grand strategy. And it is particularly incumbent on smaller sovereign societies that have hitherto compromised their nominal sovereignty by allowing major powers to dictate to them the rules of the world. The bottom line, particularly during the period of inertia, is that security and basic welfare cannot be taken for granted. Since 2022 in particular, but perhaps since about 2018 in earnest, China has begun attempting to gain better control over its supply chain to better defend against the impact of Western financial sanctions and the tightening of foreign supplies of food, vital technologies (such as advanced computer chips), energy, and access to hard currency. Much of Europe, too, has found that it must now consider how to take control of its access to its strategic needs and awaken to a world in which supply lines are now no longer guaranteed for commodities vital to survival, particularly energy. It has also awakened to the reality that the NATO structure, which once provided some measure of the dominance of the supply chain, is no longer meaningful. NATO continues to exist and expand but no longer has any meaningful operational or deterrence capability. The evolution to the next pax may well not be to a new global regime, such as a projected Pax Sinica. It may well be to a series of regional orders. Indeed, even Cold War I could be said to have created two rules-based orders, one dominated by the United States and the other by the USSR, at least until 199091. The period of Pax Americanawhich provided a true rules-based world order and only took true global effect with the end of the Cold War for a few brief yearsmay well have been a historically microscopic Camelot or artificial period. It is possible that we may not return for some time to a new global order, and preparations must be made for that contingency. As well, with the fratricidal self-destruction of many societies, it is probable that significant economic stress will disrupt the evolution of some newer, proposed weapons, computing, and manufacturing capabilities. Thus, we may see a plateauing of defense and space capabilities while overarching power evaporates. Would this define a new Dark Age or merely a different set of paths and options for societies, requiring that real, sovereign authority devolves once again into smaller (less than superpower) societies? The final collapse of the Western Roman Empire in the fifth century is a worthy model to study. The other option is that the United States could reassert itself without a major conflict with China or against China plus Russia. Such a major new conflict could see the United States regalvanize, but more likely, it would see the exhaustion of the conflicting parties reduce themselves and drive the world more rapidly toward a revived multipolar world. In all probability, unless a catalyst occurs earlier, a future U.S. or major Western alliance could seek to repeat what former President Richard Nixon attempted in 1972: to pry apart the Beijing-Moscow alliance. The only clarity at this point is in understanding that we arelike that stalling aircraftat the end of linear extrapolations of our immediate past. By understanding what we want the future to be and realistically marshaling resources and structures to achieve that future, we can at least start to bring the necessary capabilities under sovereign control. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. White House Officially Pulls Nominations of US Auto Safety Agency Head, 2 Judges President Joe Biden speaks during a Rose Garden event announcing the nomination of Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown as the next Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman at the White House in Washington on May 25, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times) The White House announced on May 30 that President Joe Biden is formally withdrawing his nomination of Ann Carlson to be administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), just months after she was nominated to the top position. In a press release, the White House said it had informed the Senate that Carlsons nomination had been withdrawn. Officials did not provide a reason for the move. The Epoch Times has contacted the White House for further comment. Carlson, the agencys chief counsel, was named acting head of NHTSA in September after taking over from Steven Cliff. She was formally nominated for the top position in February. During her time at the administration, Carlson has overseen safety probes into Tesla, and efforts to reduce traffic deaths and boost vehicle fuel economy requirements. However, her nomination had faced fierce opposition from Republican leaders who raised concerns over Carlsons track record at the agency, including her past environmentalist positions on climate issues. In May, all 13 Republicans on the Senate Commerce Committee, led by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), signed a letter (pdf) to Carlson stating their concerns over her past work at NHTSA and past career which they said suggests NHTSA intends to mimic the EPAs [Environmental Protection Agencys] draconian EV [electric vehicle] mandate. GOP Lawmakers Raise Concerns The letter noted the EPA recently proposed emissions standards for new vehicles that are so stringent they effectively mandate automakers produce electric vehicles even if Americans do not want them. Based on your record, we are deeply concerned that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will follow the EPAs lead and propose similarly radical vehicle fuel economy standards that run contrary to the law, diminish vehicle choice, impose higher costs on American families, and undermine our national and energy security all while [benefiting] China, they wrote. Earlier this month, a coalition of 43 oil and gas industry groups, including the Western Energy Alliance, American Petroleum Institute, and National Ocean Industries Association, also called on the Senate to reject Carlsons nomination, citing her plans to go beyond the agencys congressionally mandated mission on traffic safety, despite record highway deaths, to instead turn NHTSA into a climate change enforcement body. In a statement following the White House announcement, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Carlson would continue to serve at NHTSA. He did not comment on why her nomination was withdrawn. Anns service has helped advance NHTSAs mission to save lives and reduce the economic costs of roadway crashes, Buttigieg said. Judge Nominations Pulled Elsewhere on Tuesday, the White House formally announced that Biden had retracted the nomination of Michael Delaney to serve on the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Delaney, a former attorney general of New Hampshire, had faced scrutiny from Democrats owing to his handling of a case in which a private boarding school in the state was sued by a student who was sexually assaulted on its campus. The school ultimately settled the lawsuit. At a committee confirmation hearing in February, Delaney defended his handling of the case, in which he filed a motion on behalf of the school arguing that the female victim, who was a minor, should only be allowed to proceed with the case anonymously, as she had requested, if certain conditions were met. I did my job in that case as an advocate, and I recognize if confirmed as a judge I would be playing a very different role, Delaney said, CNN reported. Additionally, Biden withdrew the judicial nomination of Jabari Wamble for U.S. district judge in Kansas on Tuesday, again without citing a reason for the move. Wamble was initially nominated by Biden for a circuit court vacancy earlier in his administration but the nomination expired before he could be confirmed by the Senate. He was nominated for the district court seat in Kansas in February but pulled out last week, stating that he would prefer instead to remain in his current position as a federal prosecutor in Kansas. Reuters contributed to this report. Why Faith and Family Are the Cure for Loneliness Commentary A few weeks ago, the U.S. surgeon general issued an alarming report (pdf) on the state of loneliness in America. While expressing great concern about the toll loneliness takes on a persons mental health, the report goes on to ignore two of the best antidotes for curing the problem: family and faith. According to the 2021 Current Population Surveys Annual Social and Economic Supplement, the percentage of adults living with a spouse decreased to 50 percent from 52 percent over the previous decade, while the number of adults older than the age of 18 living alone increased to 37 million, up from 33 million in 201128 percent of all U.S. households. The statistics get even more sobering: 34 percent of adults older than the age of 15 have never been married, compared to 23 percent in 1950; the estimated median age to marry is now 30.4 for men and 28.6 for women, up from 23.7 and 20.5 in 1947; and 17 percent of both men and women between the ages of 25 and 34 lived with an unmarried partner. Thats just the marriage statistics. For the family, it becomes even more alarming. The number of families with their own children younger than age 18 living at home has declined to just 40 percent in 2021 from 48 percent in 2001. The actual share of the 130 million American households headed by married parents with children decreased to 17.8 percent in 2021 from 18.6 percent in 2020. In contrast, more than 40 percent of homes in 1970 were headed by married parents with children. When people live alone, they often lack connections, leading to loneliness, which can be deadly. In his book, Loneliness, University of Chicago professor John Cacioppo wrote that the negative health risks of living alone are far worse than air pollution or obesity. But one cant make significant connections sitting behind a computer screen all day. Thats why we cant ignore the factors that faith and family play in keeping us connected so we arent a society made up of all the lonely people, as the Beatles once sang about in their song Eleanor Rigby. First, its families that provide the vital social connectionsa husband with his wife, parents with their children, parents with other parents, children with other childrenthat we all need to thrive. These relationships build upon each other, with the family serving as the foundation. But theres hope, and it isnt too late to reverse the damage that has been wrought. That hope comes through faith and commitment, not government solutions. If were to become less lonely people, we must seek out those institutionsmarriage, family, and faiththat make us more connected people. As Erica Komisar wrote for the Institute for Family Studies: Religion used to be the bedrock of society. Communities revolved around a place of worship, ingraining a moral compass and a higher sense of purpose into Americans. Over the years, Americans have rejected faith, leaving emptiness in its place. The loss of faith has robbed society and its citizens of a sanctuary in the storm of life. When faith dies, who defines morality? What are people living for? What is left to hold communities together? Its no surprise that loneliness and aimlessness are on the rise. Couple the loss of religion with broken marriages, latchkey children, and a society now glued more to its smartphones and tablets but with no meaningful connections elsewhere, and you have a recipe for isolation and depression. Komisar concluded, Loneliness is merely the symptom of societys degradation of family structures, faith, and meaningful friendships. If we, as a nation, are serious about addressing/confronting loneliness and if we want to reduce youth suicide, the best manner to do this is through the strengthening of families, marriage, parenting, and the deepening of our faith, not ignoring these critical factors for our overall mental and spiritual health. Through strengthening these institutions, Im confident well see personal restoration for those who are lonely. Most of all, instead of isolation and fragmentation, well see community, hope, and unity as all come to live a life built on a solid foundation of faith and family. Our present epidemic of loneliness can be reversed if we return to focus on God and on others, instead of ourselves. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The Tajik-Korean Business Forum is scheduled to take place in Dushanbe in June 2023, Trend reports. The discussion on organizing and preparing the forum was held during a meeting between Chairman of the State Committee for Investments and State Property Management of Tajikistan Sadi Kodirzoda and Kwon Dong-seok, the Ambassador of South Korea to Tajikistan. During the meeting, it was emphasized that the upcoming forum should give particular importance to sectors such as light industry, finance, agriculture, and healthcare. The parties concluded the meeting by expressing their readiness to further expand their mutually beneficial cooperation. Recently, on May 15, the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, and the Special Envoy of the President of the Republic of Korea, Senior Secretary for Future Strategy Jang Sung Min, discussed the prospects for cooperation between the two countries. During the meeting, the Tajik president emphasized that the relations with South Korea is an important aspect of Tajikistan's foreign policy. Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) questioned Assistant Secretary for Terrorist Financing and Financial Crimes Elizabeth Rosenberg about the Biden administrations intention to forgive foreign countries and entities of debts they owe to the United States at Wednesdays Senate Banking Committee hearing. Challenges in Manipur will take some time to settle PUNE, CHIEF of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan on Tuesday said challenges in Manipur have not disappeared, but expressed hope that things will settle down in some time while noting the situation in the North-Eastern State now is not related to insurgency. The death toll from clashes since ethnic rioting began on May 3 in Manipur has gone up to 80, according to officials. Chauhan was in Pune on Tuesday to review the passing out parade of the 144th course of the National Defence Academy (NDA). Asked about the situation in Manipur, he told reporters that, The Army, Assam Rifles were deployed in Manipur before 2020. Since the challenges of the northern borders were far more, we were able to withdraw the Army. Since the insurgency situation had normalised, we were able to do that. The situation now in Manipur is not related to insurgency. It is a clash between two ethnicities and a situation of law and order, he said. We are helping the State Government with the problem, the CDS said. I would like to say that the Armed Forces and Assam Rifles have done an excellent job there and may have saved a large number of lives. Though the challenges in Manipur have not disappeared, it will take some time. Hopefully this will settle and the Government there will be able to do the job with the help of CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) etc, he said. In his address to the cadets, Chauhan spoke out the deployment of Chinas PLA (Peoples Liberation Army) along the northern borders. We see the war in Europe, the deployment of Chinas PLA along the northern borders and geo-political crisis in neighbouring countries. These crisis present a challenge to India, but the Armed Forces are firm to maintain the legitimacy of Indias claims and peace in the region, he said. CDS on Tuesday said the deployment of Peoples Liberation Army of China on Indias northern borders is not increasing day by day. Talking to reporters after the National Defence Academy 144th course passing out parade in Pune, he said the PLA deployment on the northern borders is at the same level as it was in 1920. They havent gone back. So, there is a challenge actually, he added. The Armed Forces are taking all kinds of steps so that there is no untoward situation...We have been able to get back to all places except two: Demchok and Depsang. Negotiations are on, he said. Hopefully that will come about, we are hopeful of that, he added. Till the time that comes about, there is a need to maintain constant vigil on the border, he said. Pung Cholom is the soul of Manipuri Sankirtana By Kaushik Bhattarcharya Pung Cholom is the soul of Manipuri Sankirtana music which allow us to express our love and belief towards Vaishnav life, Guru Kirti Singh, a well-known Manipuri Bhakti Sankirtana guru said during an interaction with The Hitavada on Tuesday. Guru Kirti Singh and his troupe was in the city to perform the dance form during the 8th International Convention of SPIC MACAY. Kirti Singh, who is also a guru in Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, Manipur, said, It is a Sadhana for us. The dance form is an indispensable part of our religious and social rituals. The cultural significance of the dance thus lies in the use of this venerable instrument, essential to the sacred tradition, said the guru of the dance form. The explosive techniques in Pung Cholom require intense physical training, with dancers taking 10 years to perfect their craft, he said. The dancer needs to be physically strong, agile, and open to a regular training regimen under his Guru, says Singh, who is teaching the dance for decades. The dance requires rock-hard core strength and perfect shape of limbs for the continuous acrobatic jumps the dance demands, he added. This dance form is perhaps the most complete manifestation of classical Manipuri performing arts both in the form of music and dance used in every religious occasion, Singh explained. When asked about the future of this dance form, Singh said, Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy is doing a great job in promoting this dance form in Manipur and some other states of North-East. There is a need to reciprocate this dance form not only in the country, but also in the world, and these type of events are the best way to do so. Talking about his Dance Academy, Singh said, The first Prime Minister of India Pandit Nehru, on his maiden visit to Manipur in 1952, witnessed Raas Leela at the Royal Palace of Manipur. Nehru was so happy by the spectacle of the Raas that he took the initiative of founding an institution of Manipuri dance in Imphal. Thus was born the Manipur Dance College in 1954 which was later named as Jawaharlal Nehru Dance Academy. 10 Vaishno Devi pilgrims killed in mishap JAMMU, TEN Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrims, most of them from Bihar, were killed and 66 others injured on Tuesday as their bus skidded off the road and rammed into the railing of a bridge before falling off it, officials said. The death toll may go up as Government Medical College Hospital Principal Shashi Soodan said two of the injured admitted there are critical. J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha approved Rs 5 lakh each for the next of kin of those who lost their lives in the tragic accident and Rs 50,000 each for those seriously injured, officials said. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed grief over the death of pilgrims from Bihar, mostly from Lakhisarai district and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of victims hailing from the State. Sahil sent to two-day police custody NEW DELHI, A COURT here on Tuesday permitted the Delhi Police to interrogate Sahil, accused of stabbing a 16-year-old girl over 20 times and bludgeoning her to death with a concrete block, in its custody for two days . Sahil, 20, was produced before Duty Metropolitan Magistrate Jyoti Nain who took note of the plea of the interrogators and sent him to two-day police custody during which he is likely to be interrogated about the offence, the motive and ensuring recovery of weapon of offence, sources said. The accused was produced before a magisterial court before the usual court timings due to security reasons, they said. The victim, Sakshi, was brutally killed in public view on Sunday evening in Shahbad area of northwest Delhi. She had 34 injury marks on her body and her skull was smashed, police had said. The Delhi Police sought the custody of Sahil on the grounds that he frequently changed his statements and that the weapon used for committing the offence was yet to be recovered, the sources added. Sahil was arrested from Bulandshahr after a call from his aunt to his father was traced to a location in Uttar Pradesh. After his medical examination there, he was brought to the national capital late Monday evening. Meanwgile, AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj lashed out at Lt Governor V K Saxena over the murder of a minor girl in the Shahbad Dairy area, alleging that the people of Delhi have lost faith in the national capitals law-and-order system. The Delhi Government has also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh to the victims family. The knife used by the youth was bought by him around 15 days ago and police are yet to recover it, a senior officer said on Tuesday. According to police, since Sahil bought the knife days before the incident, it is not unlikely he was planning to kill her already, but he also claimed that he killed the girl in a fit of rage since she had been ignoring him. A new CCTV footage has surfaced online in which the accused could be purportedly seen talking to a person just minutes before committing the crime. Police officials investigating the case claimed that the killing was pre-planned and the accused, Sahil, was waiting for the girl in the bylane for that very purpose. Shah meets Manipurs civil societyleaders, announces compensation Union Home Minister Amit Shah with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh during a meeting with the delegation of different civil society organisations in Imphal on Tuesday IMPHAL/CHUrACHANDPUr : Centre and Manipur Govt announce Rs 10 lakh ex-gratia for family of victims of ethnic conflict A member of victims family will also be provided a job UNION Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday visited Churachandpur, the scene of some of the worst rioting in the recent ethnic conflict which broke out in Manipur earlier this month, to hold talks with Kuki civil society leaders. Among others, Shah who flew down in a helicopter accompanied by the IB chief and Home Secretary, is meeting church leaders as well as intellectuals from the Kuki community to understand their grievances and find ways to bring peace to the north-eastern State which has witnessed a series of clashes between Meiteis and Kukis. Earlier in the day, the Government announced it will give a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to those who died during the ethnic conflict in Manipur. A member of the family of those who died in the rioting will also be provided a job. The compensation amount will be borne equally by the Centre and the State, officials said. The decision was taken at a meeting between the Union Home Minister and Chief Minister N Biren Singh, on Monday late night. Manipur has been hit by ethnic conflict for nearly a month and witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes and firing between militants and security forces on Sunday, after a relative lull for over a fortnight. The death toll from clashes has gone up to 80, officials said. The meeting also decided toensurethatessentialitems such as petrol, LPG gas, rice andotherfoodproductswill be made available in large quantities to cool down prices. The Home Minister who flew in to Imphal on Monday night is accompanied by the Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Director of the Intelligence Bureau Tapan Kumar Deka. Shah also held consultations onTuesday with stake holders starting with a breakfast meeting with a group of women leaders, aspart of his initiativetobringpeacetothe violence-hit state. Held a meeting with a group of women leaders (Meira Paibi) in Manipur. Reiterated the significance of the role of women in the societyofManipur.Together, we are committed to ensuring peace and prosperity in the state, Shah tweeted. According to a Home Ministryspokesperson,Shah also held a meeting with the delegation of different civil society organisations in Imphal on Tuesday morning.Ethnicclashesbroke out in Manipur after a Tribal SolidarityMarchwas organised in the hill districtson May 3 to protest the Meitei communitys demand for ScheduledTribe (ST) status. Since then there have been waves of unrest including a latestroundofclasheswhich sawatleast5deadonSunday. The violence was preceded by tension over the eviction of Kuki villagers from reserve forest land, which had led to a series of smaller agitations. Meiteis account for about 53 percent of Manipurs population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley. Tribals Nagas and Kukis constitute another 40 per cent of the population and reside in the hill districts. Around10,000personnel of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles, besides thosefromotherparamilitary forces, hadtobedeployed to bring back normalcy in the north-eastern State. Meanwhile, Shah on Tuesday said the Governments top priority is peace and prosperity in Manipurandhehasinstructed security officials to strictlydeal with any activities that disturbpeace. Shahsaidthis after a review meeting with senior officials of Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and the Indian Army here. Reviewed the security situation in Manipurina meeting with senior officials of the Manipur Police, CAPFs and the Indian Army in Imphal. Peace and prosperity of Manipuris ourtop priority, instructed them to strictly deal with any activitiesdisturb Mizoram seeks Rs 5 cr aid for displaced people AIZAWL, May 30 (PTI) THE Mizoram Government has sought Rs 5 crore assistance from the Centre to provide immediate relief to people who have taken shelter in the State from violence-hit Manipur, a senior official said on Tuesday. People from Manipur, affected by ethnic conflict, continued to flock to Mizoram, and the number rose to 8,282 till Monday, State Home Department Commissioner and Secretary H Lalengmawia said in a statement. A letter seeking monetary assistance of Rs 5 crore as immediate relief for the internally displaced people was sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs last week. We are hopeful that the Centre will provide the assistance as the displaced people are none other than Indian citizens, the state home secretary told PTI. Syria back in the Arab-fold BY ASAD MIRZA AFTER more than a dozen years of ostracism by regional Arab and western leaders, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is officially back in the Arab fold, he was warmly embraced by regional leaders at the Arab League summit in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, last week. Apparently it seems that the Arab League has lost its meaning and purpose and it is demonstrated by the manner in which member states takes its sessions in a non-serious manner. Morocco declined to host a summit in 2016, calling the event a waste of time. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, skipped last years gathering in Algeria on medical grounds. Heads of state are sometimes spotted falling asleep at the fora meetings. But it seems that at the moment no one would relish the regional Arab body more than Assad, who seemed euphoric to be invited to the Arab Summit. Syria was suspended from the league in 2011, when Assad began a brutal crackdown on anti-Government protests that plunged the country into a civil war. Assads deployment of chemical weapons against his own people along with mass arrests, torture and disappearances and killing of more than 3 million civilians in the country have no parallel elsewhere. This is a legacy, which he inherited from his father, Hafez al-Assad, who reportedly massacred more than 10,000 people in the city of Hama during a 1982 siege. On May 7 however, the regional Arab body agreed to re-admit Syria to its fold. Though an invitation from a dull talking shop crammed with dictators may seem unappealing to many but to Assad, it is the culmination of a long effort to end his Arab isolation - and, he may hope, another step towards acceptance in the West. US stand on Syria However, Assads regional Arab acceptance creates a problem for the US, which continues to oppose any sort of normalising ties with the Syrian Government but has not been able to force its Arab partners from restoring ties with Damascus. US officials maintain that though they do not back normalisation with Assad, they share the objectives that restored relations could bring, including expanding humanitarian access to conflict-torn regions, combating IS, reducing Irans influence and countering the trafficking of the drug Captagon. Mona Yacoubian, Vice President of the Middle East and North Africa centre at the US Institute of Peace (USIP), a think tank funded by the US Congress, told Al Jazeera that the US position under President Joe Biden reflects a tricky, gnarly, complex challenge. But without accountability for Syrian Government abuses, she added, Washington will not normalise its relations with Damascus or ease its heavy sanctions, including the blocking of foreign reconstruction funds. Making the US stand quite clear, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last week, We do not believe that Syria merits readmission to the Arab League. Still, Blinken said Washington and its Arab allies have broader common objectives in Syria. Last week, a group of bipartisan House representatives introduced a bill dubbed the Assad Anti-Normalisation Act, which aims to hold the Assad regime, and its backers, accountable for their crimes against the Syrian people and deter normalisation with the Assad regime. The bill is a sign that Congress will likely push Biden and future administrations to fully enforce Syria sanctions. Syrias Ostracisation Syria was suspended from the Arab League and left isolated by regional power brokers in 2011 after its crackdown on protests during the Arab Spring, a wave of anti-Government demonstrations across several countries in the region that year. That heavy-handed security approach in Syria turned into a protracted war, killing hundreds of thousands of people and displacing millions. Emerging Scenario As to why Arab states are keen to bring Syria among their fold, there are many plausible reasons. One is to forge a broader spirit of detente. The Saudis struck a deal in March with Iran to restore diplomatic ties and reopen embassies. this came after years of proxy wars in Syria, Yemen by both and now both seems to have forgotten the past. Turkey and Egypt, mired in mutual economic crises, are trying to end a decade of animosity. Gulf states have ended their embargo of Qatar, which accomplished little. Old foes across the region are keen to pretend they are friends. When it comes to Syria, however, they want something bigger in return. Its neighbours hope to get rid of millions of Syrian refugees. The 2 million or so in Lebanon, with a population of just 5 million, are seen as a burden, blamed unfairly for the countrys economic collapse. In Turkey. the mood has also turned hostile. Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the main opposition candidate in the election on May 26 has vowed vows to send Syrians packing within two years if elected. In addition, the West hope that mollifying Syria may result in it controlling its Captagon trade. Syria has become the worlds leading producer of Captagon, an amphetamine that is a popular recreational drug in the Gulf. The scale of the Captagon trade is often exaggerated. Unconfirmed estimates put its annual value at $57 billion. The real figure is probably an order of magnitude smaller -- but that is still large enough to make it Syrias top export. Regardless of the future of US policy on Syria, the fact that Arab states are normalising with Assad is also a sign of the receding US political influence in the region. Indeed, this seems to be a sad commentary on the Arab world and its dictatorial leaders who basically conspired to crushed the Arab Spring 12 years ago, instead of working for the betterment of their people. In reality the pro-democracy, pro-rights movement has not fizzled out; rather, it was clubbed to death by a conspiracy of the dictators. Three held for illegal trade of vehicles Staff Reporter Hanumantal police nabbed three accused involved in illegal trade of suspicious vehicles and seized two cars and a moped amounting to Rs 20 lakh from them. The arrested have been identified as Wasim Mohammed Abdul Wahid (33), a resident of Thakkar Gram, Kilkari Garden in Hanumantal; Rashid Ahmed Khan (44) of Sara City, Amkhera in Gohalpur and Ashraf Shaheed Ansari (24), a resident of Badi Madar Tekri in Hanumantal. SHO of Hanumantal police station, Umesh Golhani informed that police received information about a suspected Vitara Breeza Car parked near the residence of Wasim in Thakkar Gram area. Acting promptly on the information, police reached the spot and questioned Wasim about the suspected car but he failed to give any appropriate reply. In further investigation, police found that the chassis and engine numbers were destroyed from the vehicle and police seized the suspected car valued at around Rs 10 lakh. Wasim informed that he along with Rashid work for trading second hand vehicles from other states and selling them in Jabalpur. He had purchased the seized car from Rajasthan from Rafukh Khan while another car Ertiga was purchased from Hyderabad through Manohar Yadav which was sold to Ashraf and also sold out a moped of Honda Company to Wasim. On his identification, police started a search and seized the Ertiga car and Honda moped and also arrested Rashid Khan and Ashraf Ansari. Hanumantal police have registered a case under Section 420 and 34 of IPC. Ana Venegas/AP SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. (AP) Five juveniles have been arrested on suspicion of being involved in the beating of three Marines by a large group of youths on a Southern California pier, authorities said. The assault happened shortly before 10 p.m. Friday in the city of San Clemente near Camp Pendleton, a Marine Corps base. Video circulating online showed a melee with the victims, who were not in uniform, on the ground being kicked until a woman and a man broke it up. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The trade turnover between Switzerland and Turkmenistan is currently at the level of 6 million through 10 million Swiss francs ($6.6 million through $11 million) per year, a source at Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) told Trend. It was noted that bilateral trade relations consist mainly of Swiss exports, which consist of watches, machines, chemicals, pharmaceuticals. "Switzerland attaches great importance to the country's foreign economic activity. This means that our economic policy is aimed at creating good general conditions for doing business abroad," SECO said.. Furthermore, it was stressed that Swiss companies are competent partners in many industries, their experience and products can be of great importance for the modernization and diversification of the Turkmen economy. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate DARIEN It's been 42 years since Officer Kenneth E. Bateman Jr. responded in the early morning hours to a burglary alarm at a local restaurant. The seven-year veteran of the Darien Police Department never came back from the call. Police said Bateman arrived at the Duchess Patio Restaurant near the Norwalk city line to find a door pried open. Backup hadn't yet arrived. He spotted a suspect breaking through a plate-glass door to escape and ordered the burglar to stop. A shootout ensued, and Bateman was struck in the neck. Authorities found him at the scene and took him to Norwalk Hospital, where he died soon after. He was 34-years-old. Now 42 years after Bateman's killing, Darien police are renewing calls for help in the investigation into his death, as they have done regularly in the years since. "The investigation into Officer Bateman's death is ongoing," Darien police said in a post on the department's Facebook page Wednesday, which marked the anniversary of the fatal shooting. The post encouraged anyone with information about the incident to contact Darien detectives. In 2015, a federal judge found that Anthony Sabato, a West Haven resident, had supplied the gun used in the killing. He was sentenced to 13 years in prison for trafficking crack cocaine at the time. Sabato has long been the prime suspect in the killing because he was believed to have committed a number of break-ins along the Post Road at the time of Bateman's death, though he was never charged in the burglaries. The .38 caliber gun that killed Bateman has never been found. Police believe the gun was stolen from a Stamford home sometime prior to the shooting. Investigators were able to retrieve a "wad-cutter" slug from Bateman's body, which was believed to be the ammunition stolen in the Stamford home burglary. Bateman was born in Stamford on May 16, 1947 and joined the U.S. Navy after attending local schools, according to his entry in the Connecticut Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation. He was honorably discharged in 1970, after having served aboard the U.S.S Enterprise. He worked as a yacht rigger before joining the Darien Police Department in 1973. Anyone with information about the killing of Officer Bateman can contact Darien detectives at 203-662-5330. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) Jury selection in the groundbreaking trial of a former sheriff's deputy charged with failing to confront the killer of 14 students and three staff members at a Florida high school five years ago got off to a speedy start Wednesday, with the preliminary round concluding in just one day. Circuit Judge Martin Fein had tentatively scheduled three days of preliminary jury selection, seeking 50 candidates whose schedules and employment would allow possibly two months of service at the trial of former Broward County Deputy Scot Peterson. But by the end of Wednesday, the judge ended the process after finding 55 finalists out of 300 prospects interviewed. Those 55 will be brought back Monday for questioning by prosecutors and Peterson's attorney about their knowledge of the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman High School in Parkland, and whether they can be fair in judging Peterson's alleged refusal to confront shooter Nikolas Cruz at the scene. Six jurors and four alternates will be chosen. Florida is one of six states that allow six-member juries for trials other than capital murder. The others are Arizona, Connecticut, Indiana, Massachusetts and Utah. All other states use 12-member juries in felony trials. If all goes according to plan, opening statements would be given the middle of next week. While Fein tried to dissuade additional comments Wednesday, two prospective jurors demanded to speak to him outside of the presence of the others. One said he already knew he couldn't be fair because he considers Peterson a coward. Another said his boss's daughter was one of the 17 wounded in the shooting. Both were dismissed. Peterson, 60, is charged with seven counts of felony child neglect involving four students killed and three wounded on the top floor of a three-story classroom building. He becomes the first U.S. law enforcement officer prosecuted for his alleged actions and inaction during a school shooting. Texas authorities are still considering charges for the officers who failed last year to confront the gunman at an Uvalde elementary school who killed 19 children and two teachers. On Feb. 14, 2018, Peterson approached the building with his gun drawn 73 seconds before Cruz reached the third floor, but instead of entering, he backed away as gunfire sounded. He has said he thought the shots were coming from outside the building, perhaps from a sniper. His attorney Mark Eiglarsh says he will call 22 witnesses who also thought the shots came from outside. Eiglarsh also argues that under Florida law, Peterson had no legal obligation to enter the building and confront Cruz. Peterson is also charged with three counts of misdemeanor culpable negligence for the adults shot on the third floor, including a teacher and an adult student who died. He also faces a perjury charge for allegedly lying to investigators. He could get nearly a century in prison if convicted on the child neglect counts and lose his $104,000 annual pension. Prosecutors did not charge Peterson in connection with the 11 killed and 13 wounded on the first floor before he arrived at the building. No one was shot on the second floor. Peterson retired shortly after the shooting and was fired retroactively. Cruz pleaded guilty in 2021 to the killings. In a penalty trial last year, his jury couldn't unanimously agree on whether he deserved the death penalty. The 24-year-old former Stoneman Douglas student was then sentenced to life in prison. In Uvalde, a report by lawmakers put nearly 400 officers at Robb Elementary School shortly after the shooting began from an array of federal, state and local agencies, many of them heavily armed. They waited more than an hour to confront and kill the 18-year-old gunman. At least five officers were put under investigation after the shooting and were either fired or resigned, although a full accounting is unclear. The head of the Texas Department of Public Safety, Col. Steve McCraw largely blamed Uvaldes school police chief, who was later fired by trustees. __ Associated Press reporter Acacia Coronado in Austin, Texas, contributed to this report. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate NORWALK Nuvance Health has launched an expanded imaging and radiology center at Norwalk Hospital, on the heels of the United States Preventive Services Task Force issuing new mammogram screening recommendations. On May 9, the task force advised women to get screenings every two years starting at age 40 until 74 its previous recommended starting age was 50. Dr. Susan Boolbol, chair of breast surgery at Norwalk Hospital, said that, while screening mammograms save lives, these measures are not enough. Most of us in this field believe that women should get mammograms every year at age 40 and up, she said. Now, thankfully, most breast cancers are slow to grow, but that doesnt mean we want to delay the diagnosis. Because the goal still is to diagnose it as early as possible. Boolbol identified the recommended age range ending at 74 as another issue: she said screenings should continue unless a woman expects to live less than 10 years. Regardless of age, Boolbol said women should get a mammogram if the feel a lump or an anomalies. I know 74-year-old women that are doing triathlons, she said. Should they stop getting mammograms? No, theyre in great health. Their expected lifespan is more than 10 years. They should continue to get mammograms. Boolbol said the hard stop at 74 is risky. In addition, she recommends women to have yearly risk assessments for breast cancer starting at 30. Because 12.9 percent of United States-born women develop breast cancer, Boolbol said it is important to assess additional risk factors like family history of breast cancer, being overweight and alcohol consumption. Though she said she thinks the task force recommendations could do more, Boolbol said she expects the update to bring in more women seeking screenings to Norwalk Hospital. Fortunately, Norwalk Hospital has expanded its imaging and radiology center with a new CT scanner, PET scanner, an MRI with 1.5T and 3T magnets and X-Ray. We are trying to remove barriers and obstacles so that everyone gets this potentially life-saving screening test, Boolbol said. Beyond offering more imaging and radiology services, the hospital began offering online self-scheduling in fall 2022 and has offered extended weekend and evening hours for over 10 years. Boolbol said these are all measures to make getting screened easier and more desirable. If Im taking a day off, I want to be doing something fun, not getting a mammogram, she said. [If Im] working, its very difficult for me to find the time to pick up a phone and make an appointment for myself. She said she hopes these measures will encourage and enable women to get screened. Connecticut state law requires insurance to cover yearly mammograms for women 40 and up. Boolbol said that the hospital has financial counselors available for uninsured women. Uninsured individuals may be eligible for free or low-cost screenings, according to the Centers for Disease Control. In Connecticut, contact (860) 509-7804 or the Connecticut Early Detection and Prevention Program. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate SEOUL, South Korea (AP) Former U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Wednesday that he was communicating with authorities in military-run Myanmar as well as members of the armed resistance following a surprise visit to the country last month, and called for more diplomatic pressure on the ruling generals to end the violence. Ban did not specify the nature of those communications and declined to disclose the details of his conversations with military leaders during their April meetings. He was speaking at a Seoul news conference along with other members of The Elders, a group of senior statesmen engaging in peacemaking and human rights initiatives around the world. I am in close contact with all those people to do as much as we can do to help them democratize Myanmar, Ban said. He said he was still communicating with Myanmar authorities, the president of Indonesia who holds the rotating chair of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations and Myanmar's National Unity Government, which is leading an underground civilian administration following the military takeover in 2021 that toppled the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. In his meetings with Myanmars military ruler, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, and other top officials, Ban urged them to take the initiative in resolving the countrys violent political crisis and release political detainees. He also called for the military leaders to implement a peace plan proposed by ASEAN, of which Myanmar is a member, and a separate United Nations resolution to stop the violence between the military and pro-democracy resistance forces. Ban's visit came at the invitation of Myanmars military government. He has remained tight-lipped about what the military leaders said to him during the meetings. The military government has consistently rejected outside calls for negotiations as an infringement on Myanmars sovereignty, and labeled the pro-democracy opposition as terrorists. At the news conference, Ban said he told the military leaders in April that he could never accept their attempts to avoid the argument, but didnt elaborate on their conversations. Some experts expressed skepticism about Bans initiative, citing the lack of progress in previous peacemaking attempts. Nay Phone Latt, spokesperson of the National Unity Government, told The Associated Press following Bans visit that international leaders should know their hands will be stained with blood when they shake hands with the leader of the terrorist army, referring to Bans meeting with Min Aung Hlaing. Ban noted that the military leaders following his meetings released around 2,000 political prisoners, although they didnt include Suu Kyi, who has been imprisoned since 2021. When asked whether he would pursue further visits to Myanmar on behalf of The Elders, including possible meetings or contacts with the opposition NUG, Ban replied: Whatever is necessary. As the U.N. secretary-general, Ban went to Myanmar to press the countrys then-ruling generals to let foreign aid and experts reach survivors of Cyclone Nargis in 2008, which killed an estimated 134,000 people. He urged the military to embrace democracy as well. He also attended a peace conference in Naypyitaw, Myanmar's capital, in 2016 that sought to end decades of armed conflict with ethnic minority groups. The news conference came hours after a failed North Korean attempt to launch a military satellite into orbit triggered evacuation warnings and security jitters in South Korea and Japan. Ban and other members of The Elders the group's chair and former Irish President Mary Robinson, former Mongolian President Elbegdorj Tsakhia and former Columbian President Juan Manuel Santos criticized the launch, which Santos described as an unnecessary provocation. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate NAHA, Japan (AP) Typhoon Mawar appeared to be losing force as it headed Wednesday toward Japan's Okinawa Islands, where the United States maintains a significant military presence, after largely skirting Taiwan and the Philippines. After tearing across Guam last week, Mawar passed by Taiwan on Tuesday with sustained winds of 155 kph (96 mph) and gusts of up to 190 kph (118 mph), sending high waves crashing on the island's east coast. In the Philippines, authorities said heavy rains were expected to continue in the country's north through at least Thursday and warned of flooding, possible landslides and gale-force winds before the typhoon exits the country's area of responsibility. As it turns toward the Japanese islands of Okinawa, Philippine meteorological authorities said Mawar's strength had dropped with sustained winds now of 120 kmh (75 mph) and gusts of up to 150 kmh (93 mph). Mawar is expected to gradually pick up speed but steadily weaken and may be downgraded to a tropical storm by the time it is predicted to hit the area on Friday, Philippine forecasters said. Residents on Japan's southern Sakishima Island chain, which includes the Okinawa Islands, were already preparing for the approaching typhoon when a warning siren woke them up Wednesday to alert them of a North Korean rocket launch. Officials urged people to stay indoors or take shelter underground in case of a falling debris. The rocket failed and did not come anywhere near Japan, but residents already anxious about the typhoon said it added to their stress. Japan had deployed a number of PAC-3 land-to-air interceptors on southern islands ahead of the launch, but some of them were kept on base instead of being set up at intended locations due to safety precautions ahead of the typhoon. The U.S. military, which has some 20,000 troops stationed on multiple facilities on Okinawa, will take preparatory action as the storm draws closer, depending upon need, said Capt. Brett Dornhege-Lazaroff, spokesman for the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force on Okinawa. Our installations are tracking the storm closely, he said. At the moment, it seems that Mawar will not make landfall on the main Okinawa island, home to the capital of Naha and where most of the U.S. forces are based, according to Japan's meteorological agency. Mawar lashed Guam last week, becoming the strongest typhoon to hit the U.S. Pacific territory in more than two decades, flipping cars, tearing off roofs and knocking out power. In the Philippines, more than 8,000 people had been evacuated from flood- and landslide-prone communities to emergency shelters or relatives' houses but many returned home on Wednesday as the weather started to clear. No major damage was reported. ___ Rising reported from Bangkok. Associated Press writers Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo and Jim Gomez in Manila contributed to this report. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate WESTPORT The American oystercatcher and piping plover are just two birds that nest on Compo Beach and other beaches in Connecticut. They are a vital part of the ecosystem, eating creatures in the Long Island Sound, which shows how healthy the body of water is. But these protected animals' nests are often destroyed. So, with nesting season underway, environmental advocates are urging beachgoers to not approach sectioned-off areas to protect the birds' nests, including at Compo Beach. "Number one is to keep your space," said Jess Esposito-Halka, a Westport resident and staff member Audubon Connecticut. "Share the shore with them." The piping plover first appeared at Compo Beach only a few years ago in 2020, while the American oystercatcher has been nesting there since 2015. Esposito-Halka said so far this season, the American oystercatchers have had three failed attempts at nesting, while the piping plover has had one failed attempt. This means eggs were not laid, at all, or eggs were laid, but the babies did not survive. She said this is her second year as a staff member, and they saw multiple failed nesting attempts last year, too. Beth Amendola, the coastal program coordinator with Audubon Connecticut said the group formed the Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds in 2012, which works to protect the birds and their nests. She said they work close with the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, utilizing a group of seasonal volunteers and staff, to monitor the birds when they nests, which lasts from about mid-March to the beginning of September. These birds nest in the sand, Amendola said, so people who are not paying attention can step on eggs, which can blend into the sand. String fencing has been placed around the nesting area to bring awareness and prevent people from entering the area. Informational signs are also posted and metal cage structures are placed over some of the nests, which the birds can get in and out of. Esposito-Halka said this area is to the west of the cannon at Compo Beach. "It's really just to alert folks to stay out of a certain area," Amendola said. She said there are three main causes for nesting attempt failures: storms, human disturbances and predators. With more storms, water levels can rise and wash out nests, Amendola said. Fish crows and gulls are just some predators that can steal eggs and hatchlings. Human disturbances like drones can cause the birds to chase it, thinking it's a predator, leaving the nest unattended and exposed to predators. Amendola said for both birds, if their first nesting attempt fails, they will retry about three times, sometimes more. "We always hope our first nests are successful," she said. Amendola said it takes about 24 days for the eggs to hatch, and another four weeks before the chicks can fly. If they have to renest, the cycle is pushed later into the summer, meaning more possibilities of disturbances from humans going to the beach. Pairs must average 1.2 chicks to maintain the population, Amendola said. She said these birds species fall under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which protects them. Amendola said these birds are important to the ecosystem, and can be indicators for the condition of the Long Island Sound, as they eat creatures found in the water. She said if the birds do not eat something in the water, it can signify something wrong with the Long Island Sound. Though the birds face nesting issues, Amendola said there has been an increase in these birds across the state. For American oystercatchers, in 2011, there were about 45 breeding pairs. Now, there are more than 100. Esposito-Halka also recommends people keep their dogs at home instead of at the beach, which can disturb the birds, and stay out of the nesting area, even if it is to do something such as retrieving trash, as the eggs can easily be stepped on. GLEN CARBON Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois celebrated outstanding volunteers and Girl Scouts who earned awards for their achievements at its second recognition of excellence ceremony on May 21. These standouts exemplify the Girl Scouts mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place, according to a press release from Girl Scouts. The ceremony was held on May 21 at the DoubleTree Inn in Mt. Vernon. Girl Scouts, volunteers and their families from the 40-county jurisdiction gathered together to celebrate this years award recipients. Our volunteers are an integral part of this organization and I want to commend each and every volunteer for all that they do for Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois, said Loretta Graham, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois. When reflecting on the girl members who received their Girl Scout Silver and Girl Scout Gold awards this part year, Graham added, Our Girl Scouts continue to show up in big ways. These girls have challenged themselves, conquered their goals and continuously show leadership. Most importantly, they made a positive and lasting impact on their communities. These Girl Scouts are innovators, problem solvers and go-getters who work together to make the world a better place. Thirteen Girl Scouts were recognized for earning their gold awards the highest achievement in Girl Scouting. Not only that, but all 13 also earned their Trifecta Award by earning all three of the highest awards for girls the Girl Scout Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. Gold Award Girl Scouts are recognized leaders in their communities. As they partner with local leaders to solve problems in their communities and beyond, they discover the power of bringing together a team to effect measurable, lasting change. These 13 girls did just that they are world changers. Receiving the Gold Award this year were: Dalanie Bell, Beecher City Mary Brinkmann, Waterloo Olivia Brodbeck, Batchtown Cheyenne Brundies, Brussels Danielle Cary, Caseyville Madeline Dempsey, Carlyle Sara Huller, Belleville Lindsey Lankford, Glen Carbon Mikayla Massie, Troy Aspen Rehkemper, Effingham Anna Rodgers, Carterville Emily Vandersand, Highland Hannah Wells, Beecher City Girl Scout Cadettes (girls in grades 6-8) earn the silver awards by researching an issue, making a plan to address it then taking action to improve their communities. Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois celebrated 83 Girl Scouts who earned silver awards. The Girl Scout Movement would not be possible without the passion and dedication of adult volunteers. Forty-six individual Girl Scout adult awards were presented during the day. In addition, seven service unit teams were presented with the presidents award for their outstanding efforts. A highlight of the day was honoring Rita Schaefer from Belleville with the Heart of Gold Award. This award recognizes the long-term impact a volunteer has had on girls and adults in his/her community through involvement in Girl Scouting. The service of this volunteer has been an integral part of maintaining and recruiting new girls and/or adults in one or more areas of the council. Schaefer has been involved with Girl Scouts for 50 years, with more than 30 of those years as an adult volunteer. In addition to the awards listed above, also recognized throughout the day were Product Program Top Sellers, Outstanding Graduating Girl Scout Scholarship recipients and Medal of Honor recipient Adriyanna Gutierrez from Lenzburg. Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois serves more than 6,150 girls and engages nearly 3,000 adult volunteers in 40 counties in Southern Illinois. Call 800-345-6858 or email customercare@gsofsi.org. Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois is a not-for-profit organization supported by United Ways, businesses and individual donors throughout the region. Edwardsville Police Department Blotter for May 19-25, 2023 Three people were arrested in separate incidents for driving under the influence last week in Edwardsville. Under Illinois law, a DUI offense is a Class A misdemeanor that could carry a jail time of up to a year and a fine that ranges from $500 to $2,500. On May 21, Tayler R. Rujawitz, 29, of the 7100 block of Remington Villa Drive, Maryville, was charged with driving under the influence. The arrest was on Ridgeview Road and Leslie Drive. Rujawitz bonded out by posting their Illinois drivers license and $100. Under Illinois law, the drivers license can act as a form of bond on a driving under the influence charge, or Rujawitz would have had to post $300. Also May 21, Lee A. Kunselman, 45, of Oakshire Drive, Glen Carbon, was charged with their third aggravated driving under the influence charge. The arrest was on Governors Parkway and Ridgeview Road. No bond was set but Kunselman has a notice to appear in court. On May 19, Andrew D. Jones, of the 3400 block of Wilderness Drive, Edwardsville, was charged with driving under the influence. The arrest was on North Main Street and West Fourth Street. Jones bonded out by posting their Illinois drivers license and $100. There were also four separate cases of arrests for people driving with an invalid or suspended drivers license. On May 25, Lillian E. Massey, 18, of East 30 Trailer Park, Glen Carbon, was charged with driving while their drivers license is suspended. The arrest was on Plum Street. No bond was set but Massey has a notice to appear in court. On May 23, Hamad Sayad, 27, of Chesterfield, Missouri, was charged with reckless driving and for having no valid drivers license. The arrest was on South State Route 157. No bond was set but Sayad has a notice to appear in court. On May 22, Anita F. Smith, 59, of Pontoon Beach, was charged with driving while their license was suspended. The arrest was on St. Louis Street. No bond was set but Smith has a notice to appear in court. On May 19, Keith Belden, 36, of the 200 block of South Central Avenue, Wood River, was charged with not having a valid drivers license. The arrest was on South Main Street. No bond was set but Belden has a notice to appear in court. Other arrests include: On May 24, Ryan M. Lavite, 21, of the 3800 block of Claremont Street, Alton, was charged with having a Jersey County arrest warrant. The arrest was on Clay Street. Lavite was unable to post bail and was housed at the Madison County Jail. On May 24, Kristin A. Gibbs, 36, of the 500 block of Chickadee Street, Troy, was charged with having a failure to appear in court warrant regarding a retail theft charge. The arrest was at the St. Clair County Jail, and no bond was set. On May 23, Steven C. McClendon, 22, of Devon Court, Edwardsville, was charged with having a failure to appear in court warrant out of Alton. The arrest was on South State Route 157, and bond was set at $375. On May 20, Cody Helms, 28, of the 8300 block of State Route 143, Edwardsville, was charged with reckless discharge of a firearm. The arrest was on Eberhart Avenue. Helms was held at the Madison County jail on a $40,000 bond. On May 20, Austin W. Milanos, 27, of Hillsboro, was charged with theft of labor, services or use of property. The arrest was at the Madison County Jail. Milanos was unable to post bail and was held on a $20,000 bond. These individuals have only been charged and remain innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. All charges may not be reported. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Turkmenistan took part in an extraordinary meeting of the Commission on Economic Issues under the CIS Economic Council, which was held in Moscow, Trend reports. The members of the commission, representatives of the sectoral cooperation bodies of the CIS member states, discussed the issue of updating the list of joint measures to respond to emerging problems from June 10, 2022. These issues touched upon a wide range of issues related to energy and food security, the reduction of barriers in the field of mutual trade, the functioning of free trade zones in the CIS and other important aspects. The parties noted that the response measures developed by the expert group are aimed at increasing effective interaction between States in various fields. Meanwhile, at the end of March this year, the Turkmen delegation took part in the regular meeting of the Commission on Economic Issues under the CIS Economic Council, during which various aspects of economic cooperation of the CIS member states were discussed, as well as drafts of a number of documents were considered. EDWARDSVILLE A Missouri man has been charged with aggravated battery after allegedly striking a 3-year-old in April. Xavier G. Coffman-Gill, 24, of St. Genevieve, Missouri, was charged May 18 with two counts of aggravated battery, both Class 3 felonies. The case was presented by the Madison County Sheriffs Department. The charges were suppressed May 18 until last week. According to court documents, on April 22 Coffman-Gill allegedly struck a 3-year-old boy on his back with a shoe, and on his butt and back with a belt. Bail was set at $100,000. Other felony charges filed May 26 by the Madison County States Attorneys Office include: JERUSALEM (AP) Israel's intelligence agency said Wednesday that a retired agent was among four people killed in northern Italy when a sudden storm sank a houseboat hired for a weekend pleasure cruise on a lake. The former agent was on the vessel with 22 other people on a lake near the town of Lisanza. Two Italian intelligence agents and a Russian woman part of the two-person crew also died. The Israeli prime minister's office issued a statement on behalf of the Mossad saying the unnamed agent's remains had been returned to Israel for burial. The Foreign Ministry had previously confirmed that a retiree from the Israeli security forces was killed but didnt provide a name or age or give details on his professional background. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office said that because of the agent's work in the agency, further details could not be disclosed and extended condolences to his family. Italian police released no information on the identities or professions of the 19 survivors, but local news reports said they included other members of the Italian and Israeli intelligence services, suggesting the outing may have been part of a work meeting. Without providing sources, Italian dailies Repubblica, Corriere della Sera and Il Messaggero said the survivors were spirited out of the hospital and the Israelis out of Italy via a private plane back to Tel Aviv. The captain, identified by Italian media as Carlo Carminati, survived the mishap and was questioned by prosecutors. Media reports also said the boat, which capsized before sinking, only had a capacity of 15 passengers and two crew members, but was carrying 23 passengers at the time. I was enjoying a slice of pie, skimming the headlines in the paper, when my mouth fell open in astonishment: Your Waistline May Reveal How Religious You Are The headline was followed by data, surveys, and supporting material. There was no disputing the fact: We who love the Lord, love food. I could have saved them thousands in research money if they had just asked me. Every good Baptist knows that pie and piety go hand in hand. Im convinced that fellowship and food begin with the same first letter through Divine design. My childhood was peppered with church dinners and Sunday afternoon church picnics. An excitement arrived at church along with the covered dishes. Everyone had a specialty and we knew the menu by heart. Fried chicken. Baked chicken. Ham and beans. Green beans. Three-bean salad. Potato salad. Lumpy mashed potatoes in great big pots. Toward the end of the sermon, women all over the auditorium stood. They gathered up their giant purses and worn Bibles, pressed the wrinkles from their dresses with practiced hands, and ceremoniously headed toward the basement kitchen. Before long the aroma of homemade recipes wafted throughout the church like a breathy prayer. The invitation was sung just a little faster, it seemed, and the AMEN at the end of the closing prayer acted as a starting pistol in the race to the fellowship hall. The long tables downstairs were set end to end and covered with white tissue paper that came off giant rolls. Women strutted self-assuredly from task to task; slicing tomatoes, making coffee, carrying casserole dishes to the tables. Each woman had her own style of working. The cheery new mother flitted anxiously from job to job, eager to have her help accepted by the more seasoned women. The slower-paced grandmas, who had bustled around the same church kitchen for decades, delegated duties with military sternness. They could serve up a frown more caustic than the worst tasting vegetable; there was no way to sneak a lick or fingertip of food when the grandmas were around. When it seemed the tables would collapse from the weight of Pyrex and Crockpots, the preacher would finally acknowledge the starving stares sent his way. Lets pray! echoed from his lips and we sighed happily. The preacher was always first in the buffet-style line, then the old folks; walkers and canes clattered along the concrete floor like teeth chattering. Moms and babies lined up next, balancing plates in one hand and diapered bottoms in the other in a deftness that could only be learned in church supper lines. Finally, children who could feed themselves were allowed to fix a plate. We scanned the feast to see what was left and plotted our strategy as to which pot wed scoop into first. Vegetables we hated blurred in our vision; we scurried toward chicken drumsticks and hot dogs and red, fruit-filled Jell-O that adults insisted was "salad." The air around us echoed with chatter, chewing and Christianity. Recipes were revealed, sometimes grudgingly, but never rudely. Praises flowed from practiced lips as forks and knives clinked out coded approval. Food and love filled the soul, in that building of Bibles and revivals. Loaves and fishes, manna from Heaven, the feast given for the prodigal sons return it was all there, just as the sermons said. We found comfort and acceptance in breaking bread with our church family. And we broke a lot of it. Our love of the Lord, would be forever connected to the warmth of the church suppers that showed His love made visible. And, yes. Our waistlines expanded. Just like the research discovered. I licked the last crumbs of pie crust from my fork, picked up my plate, and hummed a verse of "Do Lord" on my way to the sink. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Aditya Hadi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31, 2023 PT Amman Mineral Internasional has started the initial public offering (IPO) process and expects to be listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) on July 5. The copper and gold mining company plans to sell around 10 percent of its shares at a price between Rp 1,650 and Rp 1,775, thereby raising up to Rp12.94 trillion (US$864 million). If successful, the IPO would be the fourth-biggest fundraiser on the IDX, after PT Bukalapak, PT Dayamitra Telekomunikasi and PT GoTo Gojek Tokopedia. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Deni Ghifari (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31, 2023 An Indonesian mortgage tech start-up has secured US$3.5 million in funding from domestic and foreign venture capital firms. The seed investment was co-led by Indonesias East Ventures and United States-based Crestone Venture Capital, as announced in a press statement released by the start-up on Wednesday. US-based 500 Global, Indonesias VC Teja Ventures, Orvel Ventures, Hustle Fund and others participated in the early-stage funding round. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Front Row (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31, 2023 21:07 4 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b0579be71 4 Front Row photojournalism,photojournalist,student Free The Jakarta Post, in collaboration with PannaFoto Institute, held a talk show event titled Photojournalism in the Spirit of Participation at Multimedia Nusantara University (UMN) on Tuesday. As the first ever JakPost Connect, the event also served as an opportunity for students to learn how photography can have a powerful impact on society and history. A photo tells a story; a photo is a source of stories, a source of history, a source of knowledge, said Adisti Sukma Sawitri, managing editor of the Post. Opening the event, she showed attendees several front pages of the newspaper during its 40-year-long history, complete with photos depicting the top story of the specific day. As an established media institution, Witri said the paper had long been a witness to democracy in Indonesia and that the photos were a part of the historical narrative in Indonesia. Drawing comparison to front pages that were published in the past, she pointed out how many issues still persist; extremism, the tension between China and Taiwan, and a power struggle involving Russia, then known as the Soviet Union, and the West. Despite the similar issues, however, Witri stressed that there were also stories of development. A notable front page was one that was published in 1998, with a bold heading that read I QUIT!. The article accompanying it was about then-president Suhartos decision to step down from his presidency after month-long anti-government demonstrations and civil unrest. All the small events can lead to a big impact, said Witri. A massive social movement will obviously change the political constellation and then society everywhere, especially in Indonesia. As her background, a screen showed a picture of the 212 protest on the front page of a paper that was published in 2016. Independent documentary photographer Irene Barlian also served as a speaker for the event. Displaying her project titled Land of the Sea, she showed photographs she took during her trip to several cities in Java that have been gravely affected by flooding and rising sea levels in connection with climate change and global warming. Recounting for the attendees stories from different people she met along the way, she said that community engagement had always been one of the things she applied to her work. The people she photographed include Ibu Siti, a Semarang resident whose floor is never dry; Dusun Simonet, a village in Pekalongan that used to house over 70 families, but now is only home to one; and Ibu Darini, a salt farmer in Cirebon who is struggling because her salt pan is now underwater. Land of the Sea is created to have a deeper understanding of what our future can be, to learn from those who are affected but resiliently survive and adapt, and also as a wake-up call that this is the time to act, said Irene about her project. I think documentary photography is the most suitable medium as it presents accurate imagery to visualize the impact of climate change. The event also drew attention to the Posts photo competition, open to eager students and photographers. Part of the newspapers 40th anniversary celebrations, the Post and PannaFoto Institute is holding a contest with the theme of A Voice for All; Capturing the Spirit of Participation. The competition is looking for photographs that capture community involvement and social activism in Indonesia through the most beautiful way. Photography is a very powerful tool. Photographs can be an agent of change if used wisely, concluded Irene. The winning photographs will be chosen by an esteemed panel of judges that include the Post editor-in-chief M. Taufiqurrahman, PannaFoto Institute managing director Ng Swan Ti, and Rony Zakaria, curator for the newspapers 40th Anniversary Photo Exhibition. The winning photos will be published in the Post and on its website, displayed in the aforementioned photo exhibition, and winners may be eligible for a monetary award. Head over to thejakartapost.com/photo-competition to learn more. Topics : photojournalism photojournalist student Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31, 2023 Responding to a statement from President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo that the leadership of the Democratic Party held frequent meetings with him under the cover of darkness, a spokesperson for the opposition party said on Wednesday that there were in fact only a handful of meetings with the President and key figures in the party and that they were held at the request of the State Palace. Democratic Party secretary-general Teuku Riefky Harsya said in a statement published on Wednesday that in the past three and a half years, there had only been four meetings involving Democratic Party chief patron and former president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and the party's chairman Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, with President Jokowi. Riefky said that all meetings involving Yudhoyono and Jokowi were set up by the Palace and took place on the sidelines of major events, including the wedding of the President's son Kaesang Pangarep and the state dinner for heads of state at the Group of 20 Summit in Bali. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Nur Janti (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31, 2023 17:31 5 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b057936c5 1 Politics corruption,judiciary-system,Supreme-Court,bribery-case,Intidana-insolvency,KPK Free The Bandung Corruption Court in West Java sentenced to prison on Tuesday a former Supreme Court justice who was found guilty of accepting bribes to affect a court ruling. The bench handed down an eight-year sentence and a fine of Rp 1 billion (US$66,693) to Sudrajad Dimyati formerly of the top courts civil chamber, lighter than the 13 years Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) prosecutors had demanded, kompas.com reported. If the fine is not paid, then it is to be replaced by an additional three months in jail, presiding judge Yoserizal said, reading out the court ruling on Tuesday. The Bandung court also ordered Sudrajad to reimburse the S$80,000 ($59,069) that he had obtained from the case. In the courts decision, judges counted as aggravating factors in his sentencing that Sudrajad had undermined public trust in the highest court and contravened the governments efforts to eradicate corruption. The court justice, who was arrested in September 2022, was found guilty of accepting bribes in return for handing out favorable rulings to two businessmen involved in a civil case against savings and loans cooperative Intidana. Ivan Dwi Kusuma Sujanto and Heryanto Tanaka allegedly bribed Supreme Court justices, clerks and other workers through their lawyers, Theodorus Yosep Parera and Eko Suparno, with some of the money reportedly being channeled to Sudrajad through clerk Elly Tri Pangestuti. Read also: Supreme Court faces heavy blow after justice named bribery suspectLast week, the Bandung Corruption Court sentenced Yosep and Eko to eight and five years imprisonment, respectively, as well as a fine of Rp 750 million ($50,184) each. KPK spokesman Ali Fikri confirmed that Sudrajad would be filing an appeal to challenge the courts ruling, whereas KPK prosecutors will consider their next steps regarding the sentence over the next week. [Sudrajad] immediately lodged an appeal, Ali said. In recent years, graft scandals involving judges from the highest courts have severely undermined the integrity of the nations judicial system, exposing a failure to curb corruption within its ranks. At least 17 people have been named suspects in the aforementioned Supreme Court graft case, three of whom have been found guilty. Last week, Supreme Court secretary Hasbi Hasan was interrogated by KPK investigators for allegedly accepting bribes from Heryanto through former PT Wika Beton commissioner Dadan Tri Yudianto. On Monday, the KPK summoned Windy Yunita Ghemary, known as Windy Idol, a former singing competition contestant, as a witness for questioning in the case involving Hasbi. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Apriadi Gunawan (The Jakarta Post) Medan Wed, May 31, 2023 12:21 5 c50f50c3e1b4ab124a8b6ef95a0368e2 1 Archipelago Drugs-trafficking,crime,military,crystal-methamphetamine,life-sentence,Military-court Free The Medan Military Court in North Sumatra sentenced on Monday two Army soldiers to life imprisonment for trafficking 40,000 ecstasy pills and 75 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine in December. Yalpin Tarzun and Rian Hermawan were also dishonorably discharged from the military. Presiding judge Col. Asril Siagian in his verdict said the defendants violated the Narcotics Law and the Criminal Code. The prosecutors had previously demanded the death penalty. Asril said the severe sentence was because the defendants had violated the governments attempt to fight against drugs, adding that both of them understood drugs were illegal and their actions could damage many peoples lives. Asril cited the defendants' guilty pleas as a mitigating factor. The two were arrested by the police while carrying the contraband from Tanjung Balai to Medan on Dec. 5, 2022. They were delivering the drugs to dealers Yogi Saputra Dewa and Syahril Bin Syamsudin, who were later arrested at a hotel in Medan. (dre/gev) BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Nurlikum Mining LLC, an Uzbek-French joint venture, has launched an industrial pilot and a feasibility study with the objective to confirm the economic and environmental feasibility of uranium mining in its license area, a source at the Orano Group told Trend. "We have been present in Uzbekistan since 2019, when the group signed a partnership agreement with the State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Geology and Mineral Resources (GosComGeology), to develop exploration and mining operations in Uzbekistan. This partnership was materialized in December 2019 with the creation of a joint venture called Nurlikum Mining which mission is to bring uranium deposits to production through exploration and project development," the source said. According to the company, in November 2022, Orano Group, the State Committee for Geology and Mineral Resources of the Republic of Uzbekistan (GosComGeology) and the Uzbek State-owned Enterprise Navoiyuran signed a tripartite strategic cooperation agreement. "This has laid the foundation of an exclusive strategic alliance for the development of new uranium mines in Uzbekistan, beyond the Djengeldi project currently led by Nurlikum Mining. This is a significant broadening of the scope of the collaboration, reflecting the trust established between Orano and its partners in Uzbekistan," the source added. Orano is present in Uzbekistan via the JV company Nurlikum Mining LLC created with Uzbekistan. The company was established on December 3, 2019. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Marcus Marktanner (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31, 2023 Pancasila probably does not receive many good wishes from outside Indonesia on its birthday, June 1. But it should, as it deserves them. Indeed, Indonesia has many good reasons to celebrate its five state philosophical principles and to be proud of them. Indonesia has weathered many storms in its history. Not only is Indonesia the world's largest Muslim-majority country today, it is also the world's largest Muslim-majority democracy. It has become a role model for many other states, especially in the Arab world, where democracy movements after the 2011 Arab Spring failed across the board. Without "Belief in one God" and tolerance for the country's religious diversity, it is difficult to imagine that Indonesia would have gotten this far. The country's commitment to "Just and Civilized Humanity" is reflected in its continuous improvements across many socioeconomic indicators like health and education. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Tenggara Strategics (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31, 2023 07:00 5 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b05789b6e 4 Academia the-brief Free PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia Cina (KCIC) is hitting the gas on the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway (HSR) project to meet their promise of being fully operational by Aug. 18 this year by starting their first tests with a comprehensive inspection train (CIT) last week. Some quarters, however, warned a short testing period could compromise safety. Prior to the CIT tests, the project had only done tests on each system independently, so this is a vital milestone where KCIC begins integrated testing between multiple systems. This first out of a series of integrated tests was a hot sliding test on the railways overhead catenary system (OCS). The hot sliding test will be done in phases of increasing intensity. So far, the OCS installed in the HSR route between Halim station in Jakarta and Tegalluar station in Bandung, West Java, have been able to withstand up to a top speed of 180 kilometers per hour as of the test on last Saturday, which is faster than the average train but still below the 350 km/h expected speed of the Jakarta-Bandung HSR. However, representatives of KCIC said that they will eventually increase the speed of the inspection train performing the tests to 385 km/h. Before tests are run at speeds that break the sound barrier, walls will be built around the tracks to ensure that nearby residents are not affected by the train, explained State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) deputy minister Kartika Wirjoatmodjo, who is aware of the poor reputation the Jakarta-Bandung HSR project has developed throughout the years. In preparation for the commercial operation, PT KCIC has been opening recruitment for a number of positions such as conductor, train attendant, passenger service agent at platform and passenger service agent at service counters. PT KCIC has also proposed the fare for the high-speed train of between Rp 250,000 (US$16.72) and Rp 300,000 per trip between Halim and Tegalluar stations. The train will also stop in Kerawang and Padalarang stations. Some quarters, however, have voiced their reservations over HSR operational target of August. A source said Crossrail International, a United Kingdom-based railway consultant hired by the Transportation Ministry, recommend a longer test run, noting a three-month test run was too short for a high-speed train. Indonesian Transportation Society executive Aditya Dwi Laksana concurred and suggested KCIC take a longer time for the test run to ensure safety. He compared it with the Jakarta Light Rail Transit (LRT), which runs at much a lower speed on shorter routes, taking a much longer test run. He further suggested the government only symbolically launch the Jakarta Bandung high-speed train during Augusts Independence Day celebration, but not for commercial operation. Since the announcement in 2016, the Jakarta-Bandung HSR project has been beset by several delays. To briefly recap, KCIC initially promised the HSR to be operational sometime in 2019. However, that promised date had been moved back repeatedly as the project encountered numerous setbacks one after the other, starting from problems with land acquisition, poor drainage that caused flooding, blasting activities that damaged nearby resident houses, ballooning cost overruns and hiring underqualified contractors. Whats more Near the end of last year, the project encountered a fatal accident at the West Bandung site that made the Transportation Ministry consider further delay of its operation. This incident, which was due to a work train consisting of a diesel locomotive and railway track laying machine going off track, left two Chinese workers dead and two others injured. During a meeting with KCIC management, Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi suggested the high-speed trains commercial operation be delayed to give it enough time for a test run. However, KCIC did not want the HSRs operation date to be delayed any further. Furthermore, it wasnt until February this year that KCIC finally resolved the over US$500 million difference between the cost overrun calculation between China and Indonesia. This difference, which came about due to Chinas assumption that the Global System Mobile - Railways (GSM-R) frequencies used for signaling trains were provided by Indonesia to the HSR for free, prevented the disbursement of a Rp 3.2 trillion state capital injection to pay for the cost overrun. What weve heard Sources within the state-owned enterprises (SOE) consortium revealed that the foreign consultants appointed by the government to oversee the trial process of the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train actually recommended a further delay to the commercial operation date of the high-speed train. They assessed that there are still too many unfinished tasks along the railway line, with many the remaining parts being the most difficult. "They don't want to become the scapegoat if anything happens in the future," said the source. This recommendation is similar to advice from the Transportation Ministry at the start of the year. At that time, Transportation Minister Budi Karya urged KCIC not to rush the testing and commissioning process of the Jakarta-Bandung HSR. This minister gave this warning based on recommendations from Crossrail, a consultant from the UK. In their recommendation, KCIC was suggested to extend the duration of the high-speed train trial. According to Crossrail, the trial period set by KCIC was too short, which could impact the safety of the HSR when its in service. The Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Train is planned to be inaugurated by President Joko Widodo on August 18 as part of the celebration of Indonesia's 78th Independence Day. However, the project, which was funded by loans from China and experienced cost overruns multiple times, was targeted to be completed and operational by July 2023 in the master schedule that was drafted near the end of last year. 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: Politics Business and Economy Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Sheena Suparman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31, 2023 08:00 5 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b0578b653 4 Academia Education,technology,future Free In a world reshaped by globalization and disruptive technologies, university students must prepare for workplace challenges new to their generation. Their future colleagues may reside around the world and use different cultural and workplace practices; subject-matter knowledge may quickly become outdated. However, there are ways students can boost their future readiness. Gaining an international education is one. For example, research from the Institute of International Education (IEE) indicates that studying abroad significantly develops job skills that experts have identified as critical to 21st century work. These soft skills include not only language and intercultural skills, but also communication, problem-solving, flexibility and adaptability, interpersonal skills and tolerance for ambiguity. Furthermore, students choice of university can amplify these study abroad impacts. For example, the teaching methodology of Xian Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), an international university in China, emphasizes preparing students for the challenges they will meet in the workplace. According to XJTLUs executive president, Professor Youmin Xi, this preparation is crucial for todays university students. On the brink of a new era, people tend to react differently; some cheer while others panic. The only thing that is certain about the future is that it will be complex, volatile, uncertain and ambiguous, he said. At XJTLU, academic staff from around the world teach all degree modules in English. Students learn how to think critically, take the initiative to find answers to problems, research and communicate effectively. They enhance their academic learning with hands-on activities both in and outside of class, like the Universitys signature summer undergraduate research program. XJTLU specializes in graduating global citizens who can adapt to new technologies and navigate an increasingly complex world and uncertain future. XJTLU has always been committed to meeting the needs of the future, combining the wisdom of East and West to explore better models of education, striving to advocate critical thinking and research-led learning and focusing on the growth of students, with an interest-driven, student-centred learning approach, Professor Xi explained. Dual undergraduate degrees Xian Jiaotong-Liverpool Universitys north campus in Suzhou (./.) From its founding in 2006, XJTLU has leveraged the essence of its parent universities, the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom and Xian Jiaotong University in China. It has combined the academic rigor encouraged by the East with the creativity and critical thinking emphasized in the West. XJTLU provides bachelors program graduates with two degrees one from the University of Liverpool and the other an XJTLU degree recognized by the Chinese Ministry of Education. According to Professor Eddy Fang, deputy dean of XJTLUs International Business School Suzhou, these dual degrees can help students to future-proof themselves. Our offering two bachelors degrees one from a distinguished British university and the other from a rising Chinese university is a way to address the uncertainty of the future, he said. No one can tell us what the world will be like in 20 years, whether it will be Eastern-centric or Western-centric. Our educational model and dual degrees are a safe bet. They allow students to have their CV recognized in the two main paths the world might take in the future. World-class reputation Jesslyn Febriani, an alumna of Xian Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), works at PwC Jakarta. PwC is a Big Four accounting firm. (./.) Alumna Jesslyn Febriani, who works at Big Four accounting firm PwC in Jakarta, said she was initially attracted to XJTLU because both its parent universities are well-recognized for their quality. The University of Liverpool is a member of the Russell Group of leading UK universities; Xian Jiaotong University is consistently ranked among the top 15 universities in China. But XJTLUs own leading reputation among international universities in China, along with the fact its degree programs are taught fully in English, sealed her decision to enrol there. While at XJTLU, she not only prepared herself for a career in economics and finance, but she also improved her Mandarin skills and job skills needed to succeed in an international company. Pursuing a degree at an international university in China allowed me to meet a diverse group of people, including Chinese students, which helped me advance my Chinese language, she said. I learned very useful hard and soft skills at the university, including report-writing, presentation, financial modelling, teamwork and research skills, which I am applying in my workplace. My current project-based job requires me to work with diverse groups of people in every project, and I have been well-prepared for it, she added. I had experience working in a diverse team at the university, so I know what to expect and how to work efficiently. Preparing for the future International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) at Xian Jiaotong-Liverpool University helps students learn skills that boost employability, such as communication, negotiation and presentation skills. (./.) XJTLU consults business and industrial leaders to understand what they look for when they hire, Professor Fang said. The university then uses this knowledge to intentionally strengthen skills students can use now and for the rest of their lives. At IBSS, we constantly ask human resources managers, in China and internationally, what they want in candidates. If you study economics, you have to know the theories and basic knowledge about economics, that is a given, but weve learned that the difference between an average career and an amazing career comes from soft skills, explained Professor Fang. Instead of employment statistics, we focus on employability, he said. Its uncommon to stick with one job for a lifetime, so our graduates need the ability to successfully land not just the first job, but others throughout their career. We give students the soft skills they need to do that successfully, even 10 or 20 years after graduation. To develop those skills that boost employability, we set up workshops, seminars and training on topics like communication, negotiation and presentation, Professor Fang explained. We help students understand themselves better, how they might react in different situations and where they might fit into teams. We also teach students how to communicate not only about their subjects but also about themselves. All these skills will help them work with other people better. They will be able to use them years after they have left us. Tremendous growth Today, XJTLU has more than 23,000 students and is the largest Sino-foreign university. Professor Fang credits the universitys growth to its focus on developing new methods of education. XJTLU has developed tremendously since its founding 17 years ago, he said. Its quite clear now that we are not merely a connecting dot between East and West. If you go to most British universities, you will have a 100 percent British experience. If you go to most Chinese universities, you will have a 100 percent Chinese experience. At XJTLU, we offer a third type of experience, a blend of the elements that is more than the sum of its parts something unique, he explained. We are seen as a pioneer. We have developed our own programs, our own modules. We are able to adapt our curriculum and student experience to be relevant to the markets we are serving and to the students who join us. I think that is part of the reason weve been so successful. XJTLU will hold a webinar about the universitys admission policy and scholarship opportunities on June 7, 2023 from 4-5 p.m. China time. For information on the webinar, please email international@xjtlu.edu.cn. For more information about XJTLU, please visit www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en. Topics : Education technology future Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Lili Yan Ing and Yessi Vadila (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31 2023 The top 100 issues that have been most searched and used these days all relate to one word: digital! Everything you think, see, say and do is related to digital in some way. In this era, digital has swept every corner of our lives. One important issue among the 125 articles of the ASEAN Chairman's Statement resulting from the ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara earlier this month is Article 60, which states, "[] with a view to achieving inclusive digital transformation toward an ASEAN Digital Economic Community 2045". The next summit during Indonesias ASEAN chairmanship is scheduled for Sept. 5-7. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Editorial Board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31 2023 The slim victory of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with 52.14 percent of the vote against his long-standing rival, Kemal Kilicdaroglus 47.86 percent in the May 21 election runoff demonstrates how polarized Turkey now is, regardless of Erdogan's reconciliatory speech. Kilicdaroglu has been Erdogan's strongest rival since 2010 and is the antithesis of the grandstanding, powerful president. The stiff competition between the Islamist and the so-called nationalist and secular camps will therefore continue to linger in Turkish politics. To a certain extent, Indonesia is experiencing a similar divide as a result of two presidential elections in 2014 and 2019, which saw Joko "Jokowi" Widodo triumph over Prabowo Subianto. Both Indonesia and Turkey, the worlds prominent majority Muslim nations, look like two sides of the same coin in their choice of a populist leader who exudes ambitions to consolidate power. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Yohana Belinda (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31 2023 National flag carrier Garuda Indonesia and Singapore Airlines are exploring a joint venture opportunity to serve flights between the city-state and three major routes in Indonesia, namely Jakarta, Denpasar in Bali and Surabaya in East Java. Garuda in a statement said both had worked together on similar commitments back in November 2021, when Garuda served Singapore Airlines passengers flying to Jakarta, Denpasar and Surabaya, while the latter served Garudas passengers flying to London. Garuda said both airlines agreed to expand the aviation network between Singapore and Indonesia by including more flight alternatives and competitive pricing for the two airlines' customers. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Elaine Lies (The Jakarta Post) Reuters/Tokyo Wed, May 31 2023 A Japanese court ruled on Tuesday that not allowing same-sex marriage was unconstitutional, a decision activists welcomed as a step toward marriage equality in the only Group of Seven nation with no legal protection for same-sex unions. The ruling by the Nagoya District Court was the second to find a ban against same-sex marriage unconstitutional, out of four cases on the issue over the past two years. Japan's constitution says marriage is between a man and a woman. "This ruling has rescued us from the hurt of last year's ruling that said there was nothing wrong with the ban, and the hurt of what the government keeps saying," lead lawyer Yoko Mizushima told journalists and supporters outside the court. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Adrien Marotte (The Jakarta Post) Agence France-Presse/Passy, Senegal Wed, May 31 2023 Elegantly clad in an immaculate white gown and matching cap, Yoro Diao, 95, was wreathed in smiles after officiating at the baptism of his brand-new great-grandson. The ceremony was ripe with emotion for the old man, one of a dwindling band of Senegalese soldiers who fought in France's colonial-era wars. In the twilight of his life, he was delighted to be back home and among his extended family after years spent in bureaucratic limbo in France. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Aditya Hadi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 31 2023 Having seen sales plummet by more than 30 percent and profits contract by more than 60 percent in 2020, major alcoholic beverage companies in Indonesia are in good spirits today as their industry recovers. Business players and analysts expect a continued rise in revenue this year thanks to increasing numbers of foreign tourists and the introduction of new products. That said, the number may still be below pre-pandemic levels. Some smaller producers have capitalized on the rebound momentum to go public at a time of growing investor appetite for the industry, as manufacturers see room for growth amid Indonesia's low per-capita alcohol consumption. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Reuters Washington, United States Wed, May 31, 2023 11:35 5 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b0578e42a 2 Americas Ethiopia,Lion-Air,Boeing-737-MAX,compensation,lawsuit,families Free A US judge ruled late on Tuesday that relatives of those killed in a 2019 Boeing 737 MAX Ethiopian Airlines crash may seek compensation for pain and suffering of passengers before the plane hit the ground. Boeing in 2021 agreed to acknowledge liability for compensatory damages in lawsuits filed by families of the 157 people killed in the fatal Ethiopian 737 MAX crash. In February, the US planemaker sought to exclude any evidence of pain and suffering that passengers may have experienced before the crash. "There is sufficient evidence to support a reasonable inference that these passengers experienced pre-impact fright and terror, and that experience is part of the 'process or manner of death,'" US District Judge Jorge Alonso in Illinois wrote in his ruling, rejecting Boeing's motion. Boeing did not immediately comment. Alonso added a jury could reasonably infer from evidence that the passengers "perceived that they were going to crash, horrifically, to their certain death." A total of 346 people were killed in two fatal Boeing 737 MAX crashes - including the earlier October 2018 Lion Air crash in Indonesia. The Ethiopian Airlines crash prompted the worldwide grounding of the MAX in March 2019 for 20 months, costing Boeing more than $20 billion. As a result of the 2021 agreement, lawyers for the Ethiopian Airlines victims agreed not to seek punitive damages and Boeing did not challenge the lawsuits being filed in Illinois. As of early May, cases involving around 80 victims had been settled leaving around 75 pending. The first of a series of trials is set for June 20. Lawyers for the victims said in a court filing "there is no dispute that passengers and crew members were conscious and fully aware that the plane was plummeting before it actually crashed at nearly 600 mph." US District Judge Reed O'Connor in Texas separately ruled last year the 346 killed in the 737 MAX crashes were legally "crime victims" and wrote "Boeings crime may properly be considered the deadliest corporate crime in US history." A 2021 US Justice Department agreement with the planemaker gave Boeing immunity from criminal prosecution over fraud conspiracy charges related to the plane's flawed design. In return, Boeing paid $2.5 billion in fines and compensation to the government, airlines and a crash-victim fund. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Progress has been made on some issues between the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Iran, Director General of the IAEA, Rafael Grossi told reporters, Trend reports. The director general stressed that the International Atomic Energy Agency is working with Iran on several issues but unfortunately, no progress has been made with Iran on some issues. "My report on the state of Iran's nuclear program will be published soon," Grossi said. Reportedly, on June 15, 2023, a meeting of the Board of Directors of the International Atomic Energy Agency will be held in Vienna. A number of issues will be discussed at the meeting, including the implementation of the agreement on Iran's nuclear activities and control of nuclear facilities within the UN Security Council Resolution No. 2231. During the recent talks, two important controversial issues were resolved between the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). As reported, the issue raised by the IAEA regarding the Abadeh nuclear facility in Fars province in the south of Iran, as well as the issue about the discovery of 83.7 percent enriched uranium remains in Iran, have already been resolved. --- Follow the author on Twitter:@BaghishovElnur Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Reuters Beijing, China Wed, May 31, 2023 China will send warships to a multilateral naval exercise hosted this month by Indonesia, which has also invited countries such as North Korea, Russia, South Korea and the United States, amid rising tension in the Asia-Pacific region. The drills come as China and the United States ramp up military diplomacy in the region, staging more frequent war games with allies and partners around Taiwan, the busy waterway of the South China Sea, and the west Pacific. China's navy will send its destroyer Zhanjiang and frigate Xuchang, both equipped with guided missiles, to the 2023 Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK), the defence ministry said in a statement on Wednesday. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Reuters Washington, United States Wed, May 31, 2023 11:50 5 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b0578e937 2 Asia and Pacific South-China-Sea,US,China,jet,military,confrontation,Pentagon Free A Chinese fighter jet carried out an "unnecessarily aggressive" maneuver near a US military plane over the South China Sea in international airspace, the United States said on Tuesday. The US military command responsible for the Indo-Pacific said the maneuver by a Chinese J-16 aircraft occurred last week and forced the US RC-135 plane to fly through its wake turbulence. "The United States will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows," it said in a statement. NEW - Chinese fighter jet intercepted a U.S. Air Force plane over the South China Sea on May 26 Pentagon pic.twitter.com/rHXy0IuAo9 Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) May 30, 2023 A video showed a fighter jet passing in front of the US plane's nose and the cockpit of the RC-135 shaking in the turbulence. The spokesperson for China's embassy in Washington, Liu Pengyu, did not comment on the specifics, but said that for a long time, the United States had "frequently deployed aircraft and vessels for close-in reconnaissance on China, which poses a serious danger to Chinas national security." "China urges the US to stop such dangerous provocations, and stop deflecting blame on China," Liu said in a emailed response to a request for comment on the U.S. military statement. He added that China would "continue to take necessary measures to resolutely defend its sovereignty and security, and work with regional countries to firmly safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea." China claims almost all of the South China Sea, where several other countries have rival claims. Beijing has frequently said that the United States sending ships and aircraft into the South China Sea is not good for peace. The latest incident took place before China snubbed a request by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to meet on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue Asian security summit in Singapore this week. A senior US defense official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that since 2021 China had declined or not responded to over a dozen requests to talk with the Pentagon, which says such contacts are important to avoid misunderstandings and unintended consequences. The encounter followed what the United States has called a recent trend of increasingly dangerous behavior by Chinese military aircraft. Such intercepts happen occasionally. In December, a Chinese military plane came within 10 feet (3 meters) of a US Air Force aircraft and forced it to take evasive maneuvers to avoid a collision in international airspace. Relations between China and the United States have been tense, with friction between the world's two largest economies over everything from Taiwan and China's human rights record to its military activity in the South China Sea. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin AFP Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Wed, May 31, 2023 15:55 5 c50f50c3e1b4ab124a8b6ef95a057e03 2 Asia and Pacific Malaysia,China,WWII,ship-crash,South-China-Sea Free Malaysia's coast guard said on Tuesday authorities were questioning the crew of a Chinese vessel detained on suspicion of looting two British World War II shipwrecks. Officers discovered unexploded shells upon boarding the Chinese-registered vessel, which was detained for illegal anchorage at the weekend, said Nurul Hizam Zakaria, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency chief in Johor state. "Our investigation is now directed to where these cannon shells originated from. Right now, we have officers from multi-agencies searching the big ship," he told AFP. Nurul Hizam said the vessel from the city of Fuzhou had a crew of 32 comprising 21 Chinese nationals, 10 Bangladeshis and one Malaysian, some of whom were in coast guard custody for questioning. "This case also involves the discovery of explosives," he said. China's foreign affairs ministry said the Chinese embassy in Malaysia was in close communication with local authorities "to understand the situation". It asked Malaysia to handle the case "fairly and in accordance with the law". Beijing also asked Malaysia to protect the rights and safety of Chinese citizens. A senior Malaysian maritime official told AFP on condition of anonymity that the pieces of metal and shells could have originated from two sunken British warships. More than 800 British sailors were killed when the HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse were torpedoed by Japanese aircraft in the South China Sea. The attack on December 10, 1941, happened three days after Japan attacked the US fleet in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Photos and a video shared by the Malaysian coast guard showed large pieces of corroded metal and shells, as well as a large crane and gas torches used to cut metal on board the ship. The shells could also be linked to the discovery of unexploded World War II-era ordnance at a jetty in Johor on May 19, the maritime agency said in a statement Monday. Nurul Hizam said the maritime agency would not tolerate any form of illegal salvage activities in Malaysian waters. "Our national treasure must be protected and preserved," he said, describing looting as "an uncivilised act". Britain's Ministry of Defence condemned the "desecration" of maritime military graves after reports that scavengers had targeted two WWII wrecks, the BBC said Saturday. Malaysia's New Straits Times newspaper reported in recent weeks that illegal salvage operators had targeted high-grade aluminium and brass fixtures from the two British warships. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Guy Faulconbridge and Pavel Polityuk (Reuters) Moscow and Kyiv Wed, May 31, 2023 14:38 5 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b05790853 2 Europe Russia-Ukraine-war,Moscow,drone Free Ukrainian drones struck wealthy districts of Moscow on Tuesday, Russia said in what one politician called the most dangerous attack on the capital since World War Two, while Kyiv was also hit from the air for the third time in 24 hours. Since Russia sent tens of thousands of troops into its neighbor in February 2022, the war has largely been fought inside Ukraine. Aerial strikes on targets far from the front have intensified amid a ragged stalemate on the ground with Russian forces entrenched along an extended line in Ukraine's east and south. One of the strategic southern places Russian forces have controlled since nearly the beginning of the invasion is the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, and on Tuesday the United Nations nuclear watchdog chief asked Ukraine and Russia to respect five principles to safeguard the station. Neither Ukraine nor Russia have committed to respect the principles. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi has been trying for months to secure an agreement to reduce the risk of a catastrophic nuclear accident from military activity like shelling at Zaporizhzhia, Europe's biggest nuclear power plant. In a briefing to the U.N. Security Council, Grossi said the principles included that there should be no attack on or from the plant and that it not be used as a base for heavy weapons and military equipment. He called for off-site power to the plant to remain available and secure. "The nuclear safety and security situation at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant ... continues to be extremely fragile and dangerous," Grossi said. "Military activities continue in the region and may well increase very considerably in the near future." Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said: "Mr. Grossi's proposals to ensure the security of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant are in line with the measures that we've already been implementing for a long time." Ukraine's Ambassador to the UN Sergiy Kyslytsya said the principles "must be complemented with the demand of full demilitarization and deoccupation of the station." Commenting on the early Tuesday morning air attacks in Moscow, the defense ministry said eight drones sent by Ukraine and targeting civilians were shot down or diverted with electronic jammers, though Baza, a Telegram channel with links to the security services, said there were more than 25. Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian presidential aide, denied Kyiv was directly involved but said "we are pleased to watch events" and forecast more such strikes. Two people were injured while some apartment blocks were briefly evacuated, according to Moscow's mayor. Residents said they heard loud bangs followed by the smell of petrol. Some filmed a drone being shot down and a plume of smoke. The drones targeted some of Moscow's most prestigious districts including where Russian President Vladimir Putin and the elite have residences. He was later in the Kremlin and received a briefing on the attack, a spokesman said. Putin later said Ukraine's biggest drone strike on Moscow was an attempt to frighten and provoke Russia, and that air defenses around the capital would be strengthened. Civilian targets in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities have since the earliest days of the war been struck repeatedly by Russian drones and missiles. But Tuesday marked only the second time Moscow had come under direct fire. In Washington,the White House said it was still gathering information on the reports of drones striking in Moscow. "We do not support attacks inside of Russia. That's it. Period," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at a briefing. Washington is a major supplier of weaponry to Ukraine on the condition it uses it to defend itself and to retake Ukrainian territory occupied by Russian forces. Russian lawmaker Maxim Ivanov called it the most serious assault on Moscow since Nazi Germany's invasion in World War Two, saying no Russian could now avoid "the new reality". Russian state television gave the attacks calm coverage, and many Muscovites shrugged them off. Olga, who said she lived near to the site of one of the drone collisions on Profsoyuznaya Street, called the strikes "logical, to be expected ... what else were we waiting for?" Meanwhile, Russia put Ukraine's top generals on a "wanted list", RIA news agency said. Ukraine said four people died around the country in Russia's latest attacks, with 34 wounded including two children. Ukrainian air defense shot down 29 of 31 Iranian-made Shahed drones in Kyiv, the armed forces general staff said. A 33-year-old woman died on her balcony when debris from a destroyed Russian projectile hit a Kyiv highrise, officials said. Russia has assaulted Kyiv 17 times in May with drones or missiles, mostly at night. In a Tuesday evening video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy appeared to suggest some authorities were not doing enough to protect citizens during air raids. "Shelters in cities have to be accessible. People should understand when and how the number and availability of shelters will increase," he said, but did not elaborate. Ukraine peace plan is only way to end Russia's war, says Zelenskiy aide Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ara Eugenio (AFP) Manila Wed, May 31, 2023 Philippine mother-of-three Stella Sibonga is desperate to end a marriage she never wanted. But divorce in the Catholic-majority country is illegal, and a court annulment takes years. The Philippines is the only place outside the Vatican where divorce is outlawed. Pro-divorce advocates argue the ban makes it harder for couples to cut ties and remarry, and escape violent spouses. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,500/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Nippon Steel Co. (OTCMKTS:NISTF Get Rating) saw a large increase in short interest in May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 3,996,500 shares, an increase of 23.7% from the April 30th total of 3,231,800 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 600 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 6,660.8 days. Nippon Steel Price Performance OTCMKTS:NISTF remained flat at $22.16 during midday trading on Tuesday. 1 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,927. The business has a 50 day moving average of $22.31 and a two-hundred day moving average of $19.71. Nippon Steel has a 52 week low of $13.89 and a 52 week high of $23.92. Get Nippon Steel alerts: About Nippon Steel (Get Rating) Read More NIPPON STEEL CORP. engages in the manufacture and trade of steel products. It operates through the following segments: Steelmaking and Steel Fabrication; Engineering and Construction; Chemicals; New Materials; and System Solutions. The Steelmaking and Steel Fabrication segment produces and distributes steel sheets, plates, bars and wire rods, pipes and tubes, and machinery parts. Receive News & Ratings for Nippon Steel Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Nippon Steel and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Algoma Central Co. (TSE:ALC Get Rating)s stock price reached a new 52-week low during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as low as C$14.80 and last traded at C$14.82, with a volume of 12773 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at C$14.88. Analyst Ratings Changes Separately, Cormark cut their price target on Algoma Central from C$21.50 to C$20.50 in a report on Thursday, May 4th. Get Algoma Central alerts: Algoma Central Stock Performance The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 57.59, a current ratio of 1.46 and a quick ratio of 2.06. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of C$15.45 and a 200-day simple moving average of C$16.11. The firm has a market capitalization of C$574.37 million, a PE ratio of 5.13 and a beta of 0.77. Algoma Central Dividend Announcement Algoma Central ( TSE:ALC Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, February 27th. The company reported C$0.79 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of C$0.88 by C($0.09). Algoma Central had a return on equity of 18.05% and a net margin of 17.02%. The business had revenue of C$210.05 million during the quarter. Equities research analysts expect that Algoma Central Co. will post 1.8366093 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 1st. Investors of record on Thursday, May 18th will be paid a $0.18 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, May 17th. This represents a $0.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.84%. Algoma Centrals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 24.83%. About Algoma Central (Get Rating) Algoma Central Corporation owns and operates a fleet of dry and liquid bulk carriers on the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Waterway in Canada. The company operates in six segments: Domestic Dry-Bulk, Product Tankers, Ocean Self-Unloaders, Global Short Sea Shipping, Investment Properties, and Corporate. It operates self-unloading bulk carriers; and owns and manages tankers for the transportation of liquid petroleum products throughout the Great Lakes, the St. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Algoma Central Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Algoma Central and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. American Century Companies Inc. reduced its stake in shares of Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (NYSE:RGA Get Rating) by 28.9% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 1,658,937 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 674,206 shares during the quarter. American Century Companies Inc. owned about 2.48% of Reinsurance Group of America worth $235,718,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 1.3% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 7,115,698 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $895,227,000 after purchasing an additional 88,957 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp grew its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 4.7% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 2,411,086 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $263,917,000 after purchasing an additional 108,922 shares during the period. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA grew its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 7.5% in the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 1,670,053 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $210,109,000 after purchasing an additional 116,382 shares during the period. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP grew its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 2.2% in the 3rd quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 1,518,615 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $191,056,000 after purchasing an additional 32,087 shares during the period. Finally, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 16.0% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 743,199 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $81,351,000 after purchasing an additional 102,277 shares during the period. 96.46% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Reinsurance Group of America alerts: Reinsurance Group of America Trading Down 2.3 % RGA traded down $3.22 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $139.62. 87,685 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 419,067. Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated has a one year low of $109.06 and a one year high of $153.35. The company has a current ratio of 0.14, a quick ratio of 0.14 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.58. The stock has a market capitalization of $9.29 billion, a PE ratio of 10.07 and a beta of 0.91. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $140.08 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $141.61. Reinsurance Group of America Dividend Announcement Reinsurance Group of America ( NYSE:RGA Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, May 5th. The insurance provider reported $5.16 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.37 by $1.79. Reinsurance Group of America had a net margin of 5.66% and a return on equity of 23.94%. The company had revenue of $4.25 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.23 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $0.47 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated will post 17.74 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, May 30th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, May 16th were paid a $0.80 dividend. This represents a $3.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.29%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, May 15th. Reinsurance Group of Americas dividend payout ratio is currently 23.10%. Insider Activity In other news, EVP William L. Hutton sold 1,952 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $150.03, for a total value of $292,858.56. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 13,970 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,095,919.10. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, CFO Todd C. Larson sold 1,018 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, May 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $148.96, for a total transaction of $151,641.28. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 44,260 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,592,969.60. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, EVP William L. Hutton sold 1,952 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $150.03, for a total transaction of $292,858.56. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 13,970 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,095,919.10. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 1.55% of the companys stock. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth RGA has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Wells Fargo & Company initiated coverage on Reinsurance Group of America in a research report on Tuesday, April 25th. They set an overweight rating and a $163.00 price target for the company. StockNews.com began coverage on Reinsurance Group of America in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Credit Suisse Group raised their price target on Reinsurance Group of America from $144.00 to $152.00 in a research report on Wednesday, May 24th. Citigroup upgraded Reinsurance Group of America from a sell rating to a buy rating and raised their price target for the stock from $133.00 to $158.00 in a research report on Wednesday, March 15th. Finally, 58.com reissued a maintains rating on shares of Reinsurance Group of America in a report on Wednesday, May 24th. Four investment 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 Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $157.33. Reinsurance Group of America Company Profile (Get Rating) Reinsurance Group of America, Inc is a holding company, which engages in the provision of traditional and non-traditional life and health reinsurance products. It operates through the following segments: U.S. and Latin America, Canada, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Asia Pacific, and Corporate and Other. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding RGA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (NYSE:RGA Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Reinsurance Group of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Reinsurance Group of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Since the JCPOA is almost dead anyway, Iran may take steps within a new nuclear program-related plan, Iranian political analyst Mehdi Motahharnia said, Trend reports. Without revealing any details of the 'new plan', the analyst said there's a framework being developed within the new strategy. Motahharnia added that it is necessary to wait whether everyone in Iran will agree on the new format. He said that if Iran sticks to this new plan, it will be able to improve its economic conditions in a few months and benefit from its positive psychological effect. However, the analyst agrees that the new plan may backfire in a sense that additional sanctions may follow, and this would result in Iran losing all the gained benefits. According to him, the current US administration does not intend to ease sanctions and restrictions on Tehran, even with bringing Iran back to the JCPOA. In January 2016, JCPOA was launched between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, UK, France, and Germany) in connection with Iran's nuclear program. In May 2018, the US announced its withdrawal from the deal and imposed sanctions on Iran in November of the same year. To preserve the agreements reached as part of the JCPOA, the European signatories of the deal started in January 2019 that a financial mechanism for maintaining trade with Iran called INSTEX was formed. On May 8, 2019, Iran announced that it had ceased fulfilling its commitments regarding the sale of over 300 kilograms of uranium, as stated in the deal, basing its decision on the other signatories that have not fulfilled their obligations. On July 7, Iran announced that it will not be fulfilling its commitments regarding the enrichment of uranium at 3.67 percent and the reconstruction of the Arak Heavy Water Reactor Facility as stated in the deal. Iran announced that it will enrich uranium using next-generation centrifuges and will not mix it with the enriched uranium residues as part of the third step of reducing commitments in JCPOA on Sept.5. On Nov. 5, 2019, Iran announced that it took the fourth step in connection with reducing its commitments to the nuclear agreement. So, uranium gas is being pumped to the centrifuges at the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant. On Jan.2020, Iran took the last fifth step in reducing the number of its commitments within JCPOA. On May 8, 2018, the US announced its withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the 5+1 group (Russia, China, the UK, France, the US, and Germany), and imposed new sanctions against Iran as of November 2018. Over the past period, the sanctions affected Iranian oil exports, more than 700 banks, companies, and individuals. The sanctions have resulted in the freezing of Iranian assets abroad. --- Follow the author on Twitter:@BaghishovElnur American Century Companies Inc. grew its position in shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (NYSE:MMC Get Rating) by 0.1% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,876,646 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 2,682 shares during the period. American Century Companies Inc. owned about 0.38% of Marsh & McLennan Companies worth $310,547,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in MMC. Penserra Capital Management LLC lifted its position in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 2.6% in the 3rd quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 2,413 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $360,000 after acquiring an additional 62 shares in the last quarter. Glassman Wealth Services raised its stake in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 2.5% during the 4th quarter. Glassman Wealth Services now owns 2,519 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $417,000 after buying an additional 62 shares during the last quarter. RDA Financial Network raised its stake in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 3.8% during the 4th quarter. RDA Financial Network now owns 1,737 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $287,000 after buying an additional 63 shares during the last quarter. Clearstead Advisors LLC raised its stake in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 1.0% during the 3rd quarter. Clearstead Advisors LLC now owns 6,780 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,012,000 after buying an additional 67 shares during the last quarter. Finally, First Manhattan Co. raised its stake in Marsh & McLennan Companies by 1.8% during the 3rd quarter. First Manhattan Co. now owns 4,253 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $635,000 after buying an additional 75 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 87.30% of the companys stock. Get Marsh & McLennan Companies alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of Marsh & McLennan Companies from $197.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Evercore ISI upped their price objective on Marsh & McLennan Companies from $184.00 to $187.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. StockNews.com began coverage on Marsh & McLennan Companies in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Jefferies Financial Group reduced their price objective on Marsh & McLennan Companies from $184.00 to $180.00 in a research note on Monday, April 10th. Finally, Citigroup upped their price objective on Marsh & McLennan Companies from $190.00 to $192.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, April 18th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have given a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Marsh & McLennan Companies currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $182.62. Insider Activity at Marsh & McLennan Companies Marsh & McLennan Companies Price Performance In related news, CEO Dean Michael Klisura sold 3,140 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $165.22, for a total value of $518,790.80. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 20,935 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,458,880.70. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink . In related news, CEO Dean Michael Klisura sold 3,140 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $165.22, for a total value of $518,790.80. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 20,935 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,458,880.70. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website . Also, Director Oscar Fanjul sold 5,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $179.72, for a total transaction of $988,460.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 64,616 shares in the company, valued at $11,612,787.52. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last quarter, insiders sold 14,140 shares of company stock valued at $2,493,841. Insiders own 0.30% of the companys stock. Shares of MMC traded down $2.56 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $171.76. 612,220 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,643,388. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $173.73 and a 200-day moving average of $169.92. Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. has a 52 week low of $143.33 and a 52 week high of $182.43. The stock has a market cap of $84.97 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.03, a PEG ratio of 2.33 and a beta of 0.93. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.97, a quick ratio of 1.15 and a current ratio of 1.15. Marsh & McLennan Companies (NYSE:MMC Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 20th. The financial services provider reported $2.53 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.47 by $0.06. Marsh & McLennan Companies had a net margin of 15.24% and a return on equity of 33.33%. The business had revenue of $5.92 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.86 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $2.30 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 6.8% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts forecast that Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. will post 7.6 EPS for the current fiscal year. Marsh & McLennan Companies Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 15th. Investors of record on Wednesday, April 5th were issued a $0.59 dividend. This represents a $2.36 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.37%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, April 4th. Marsh & McLennan Companiess payout ratio is 36.93%. Marsh & McLennan Companies Company Profile (Get Rating) Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc is a professional services firm, which engages in offering clients advice and solutions in risk, strategy, and people. It operates through the Risk and Insurance Services, and Consulting segments. The Risk and Insurance Services segment is involved in risk management activities, as well as insurance and reinsurance broking and services. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MMC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. (NYSE:MMC Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Marsh & McLennan Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Marsh & McLennan Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. First Republic Bank (OTCMKTS:FRCB Get Rating) is one of 70 public companies in the Commercial banks, not elsewhere classified industry, but how does it contrast to its peers? We will compare First Republic Bank to similar businesses based on the strength of its risk, analyst recommendations, dividends, earnings, valuation, profitability and institutional ownership. Profitability This table compares First Republic Bank and its peers net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Get First Republic Bank alerts: Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets First Republic Bank 20.45% 11.26% 0.72% First Republic Bank Competitors 18.66% 11.98% 0.98% Risk and Volatility First Republic Bank has a beta of 0.99, meaning that its share price is 1% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, First Republic Banks peers have a beta of 0.94, meaning that their average share price is 6% less volatile than the S&P 500. Analyst Ratings Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score First Republic Bank 0 0 0 0 N/A First Republic Bank Competitors 631 2240 2272 60 2.34 This is a breakdown of recent ratings and recommmendations for First Republic Bank and its peers, as provided by MarketBeat.com. As a group, Commercial banks, not elsewhere classified companies have a potential upside of 96.98%. Given First Republic Banks peers higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe First Republic Bank has less favorable growth aspects than its peers. Valuation & Earnings This table compares First Republic Bank and its peers revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio First Republic Bank $6.75 billion $1.67 billion 0.04 First Republic Bank Competitors $69.01 billion $3.07 billion 9.06 First Republic Banks peers have higher revenue and earnings than First Republic Bank. First Republic Bank is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its peers, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry. Dividends First Republic Bank pays an annual dividend of 1.08 per share and has a dividend yield of 384.9%. First Republic Bank pays out 14.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, Commercial banks, not elsewhere classified companies pay a dividend yield of 2.5% and pay out 17.0% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. First Republic Bank is clearly a better dividend stock than its peers, given its higher yield and lower payout ratio. Insider and Institutional Ownership 95.2% of First Republic Bank shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 26.0% of shares of all Commercial banks, not elsewhere classified companies are held by institutional investors. 0.7% of First Republic Bank shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 6.8% of shares of all Commercial banks, not elsewhere classified companies are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term. Summary First Republic Bank peers beat First Republic Bank on 7 of the 12 factors compared. First Republic Bank Company Profile (Get Rating) First Republic offers banking for individuals and businesses, wealth management and more with a focus on tailored service and solutions. First Republic was founded in San Francisco in 1985 by James H. Herbert II with a single office and a small but dedicated staff. Years later, First Republic is one of the countrys largest banks, serving clients at more than 80 Preferred Banking Offices across the United States and through online banking services. First Republic prides itself on its convenient online presence, strong heritage and sustainable, client-centric approach that has provided consistent growth. First Republic Bank offers a full range of personal and business banking services including lending, deposit, foreign exchange and more, while First Republic Private Wealth Management provides trust, brokerage and wealth advisory services. Across all of its offerings, First Republic is committed to serving its stakeholders and clients with exceptional, personalized service, putting clients first in all that it does. Banking products and services are offered by First Republic Bank, Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender. Investment Advisory services are provided by First Republic Receive News & Ratings for First Republic Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for First Republic Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Ares Acquisition Co. (NYSE:AAC Get Rating) was the recipient of a significant growth in short interest during the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 11,000 shares, a growth of 19.6% from the April 30th total of 9,200 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 166,100 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.1 days. Approximately 0.0% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Institutional Trading of Ares Acquisition A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Sea Otter Advisors LLC increased its position in Ares Acquisition by 71.4% during the 1st quarter. Sea Otter Advisors LLC now owns 60,000 shares of the companys stock valued at $619,000 after purchasing an additional 25,000 shares during the period. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC grew its position in shares of Ares Acquisition by 90.6% during the 1st quarter. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC now owns 256,564 shares of the companys stock worth $2,648,000 after buying an additional 121,947 shares during the period. Berkley W R Corp grew its position in shares of Ares Acquisition by 16.3% during the 1st quarter. Berkley W R Corp now owns 539,890 shares of the companys stock worth $5,572,000 after buying an additional 75,577 shares during the period. Boothbay Fund Management LLC grew its position in shares of Ares Acquisition by 1,046.8% during the 1st quarter. Boothbay Fund Management LLC now owns 2,040,322 shares of the companys stock worth $21,056,000 after buying an additional 1,862,415 shares during the period. Finally, Atlas Merchant Capital LLC grew its position in shares of Ares Acquisition by 330.0% during the 1st quarter. Atlas Merchant Capital LLC now owns 1,303,000 shares of the companys stock worth $13,447,000 after buying an additional 1,000,000 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 73.36% of the companys stock. Get Ares Acquisition alerts: Ares Acquisition Stock Performance Shares of Ares Acquisition stock traded up $0.01 on Tuesday, hitting $10.48. The stock had a trading volume of 48,936 shares, compared to its average volume of 374,891. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $10.38 and a 200 day moving average of $10.22. Ares Acquisition has a twelve month low of $9.80 and a twelve month high of $10.50. About Ares Acquisition Ares Acquisition Corporation does not have significant operations. It intends to effect a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The company was incorporated in 2020 and is based in New York, New York. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Ares Acquisition Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ares Acquisition and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. lifted its stake in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:IWF Get Rating) by 4.5% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 63,652 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 2,718 shares during the quarter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc.s holdings in iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF were worth $13,637,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in IWF. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P boosted its stake in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 34.1% during the 1st quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P now owns 26,203 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $7,275,000 after acquiring an additional 6,665 shares in the last quarter. Worth Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF during the 1st quarter worth about $42,000. International Assets Investment Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 11.6% during the 1st quarter. International Assets Investment Management LLC now owns 6,211 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,724,000 after acquiring an additional 644 shares in the last quarter. West Michigan Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 3.7% during the 1st quarter. West Michigan Advisors LLC now owns 7,595 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $2,109,000 after purchasing an additional 272 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Flow Traders U.S. LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF during the 1st quarter worth about $33,422,000. Get iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF alerts: iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF Price Performance Shares of NYSEARCA IWF traded down $1.69 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $258.06. 212,518 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,486,551. iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF has a 1-year low of $202.05 and a 1-year high of $262.09. The stock has a market capitalization of $66.59 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.14 and a beta of 1.08. The companys 50-day moving average price is $245.66 and its 200-day moving average price is $233.45. iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF Company Profile iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares Russell 1000 Growth Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment returns that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Russell 1000 Growth Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of equity securities of Russell 1000 index issuers with relatively higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IWF? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:IWF Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Builders FirstSource, Inc. (NYSE:BLDR Get Rating) have been given a consensus rating of Moderate Buy by the fifteen brokerages that are presently covering the stock, Marketbeat.com reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and six have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average twelve-month target price among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $112.25. A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Royal Bank of Canada upgraded Builders FirstSource from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and raised their target price for the company from $78.00 to $135.00 in a research note on Wednesday, May 3rd. Barclays raised their target price on Builders FirstSource from $150.00 to $160.00 in a research note on Wednesday, May 24th. BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on Builders FirstSource from $92.00 to $100.00 in a research note on Friday, May 5th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Builders FirstSource in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Finally, Robert W. Baird lowered Builders FirstSource from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $96.00 target price for the company. in a research note on Thursday, May 4th. Get Builders FirstSource alerts: Insiders Place Their Bets In other Builders FirstSource news, insider Michael Alan Farmer sold 12,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $108.97, for a total transaction of $1,362,125.00. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 62,122 shares in the company, valued at $6,769,434.34. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link. Company insiders own 1.40% of the companys stock. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Builders FirstSource Builders FirstSource Stock Performance A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in BLDR. BOKF NA bought a new position in Builders FirstSource during the first quarter worth about $27,000. Benjamin Edwards Inc. bought a new position in shares of Builders FirstSource during the 4th quarter valued at about $28,000. UMB Bank n.a. bought a new position in shares of Builders FirstSource during the 1st quarter valued at about $28,000. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV lifted its holdings in shares of Builders FirstSource by 179.0% during the 1st quarter. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV now owns 332 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 213 shares in the last quarter. Finally, AXS Investments LLC bought a new position in shares of Builders FirstSource during the 4th quarter valued at about $37,000. Institutional investors own 94.71% of the companys stock. Builders FirstSource stock opened at $117.70 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69, a current ratio of 1.83 and a quick ratio of 1.10. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $106.94 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $88.20. Builders FirstSource has a 52-week low of $48.91 and a 52-week high of $122.99. The firm has a market capitalization of $15.09 billion, a P/E ratio of 7.59 and a beta of 1.98. Builders FirstSource (NYSE:BLDR Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 3rd. The company reported $2.96 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.63 by $1.33. Builders FirstSource had a return on equity of 55.42% and a net margin of 11.68%. The firm had revenue of $3.88 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.57 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $3.90 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 31.6% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts anticipate that Builders FirstSource will post 9.62 EPS for the current fiscal year. About Builders FirstSource (Get Rating) Builders FirstSource, Inc engages in the supply and manufacture of building materials, manufactured components and construction services to professional homebuilders, subcontractors, remodelers and consumers. Its products include factory-built roof and floor trusses, wall panels and stairs, vinyl windows, custom millwork and trim, and engineered wood. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Builders FirstSource Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Builders FirstSource and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The Toronto-Dominion Bank (NYSE:TD Get Rating) (TSE:TD) Analysts at Desjardins lowered their Q3 2023 earnings per share estimates for Toronto-Dominion Bank in a research report issued to clients and investors on Thursday, May 25th. Desjardins analyst D. Young now expects that the bank will post earnings per share of $1.50 for the quarter, down from their previous estimate of $1.55. The consensus estimate for Toronto-Dominion Banks current full-year earnings is $6.15 per share. Desjardins also issued estimates for Toronto-Dominion Banks Q4 2023 earnings at $1.47 EPS and FY2023 earnings at $6.02 EPS. Get Toronto-Dominion Bank alerts: Toronto-Dominion Bank (NYSE:TD Get Rating) (TSE:TD) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, March 2nd. The bank reported $1.64 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.61 by $0.03. The company had revenue of $9.01 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.97 billion. Toronto-Dominion Bank had a return on equity of 15.51% and a net margin of 17.72%. Toronto-Dominion Bank Price Performance TD has been the subject of several other research reports. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday. Scotiabank upgraded shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating in a research note on Friday, March 3rd. Barclays downgraded shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, May 9th. Finally, CIBC upgraded shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from a neutral rating to a sector outperform rating in a research report on Monday, April 17th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Toronto-Dominion Bank currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $100.57. Shares of TD opened at $57.00 on Monday. Toronto-Dominion Bank has a fifty-two week low of $55.43 and a fifty-two week high of $77.15. The company has a market capitalization of $104.85 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.56, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.51 and a beta of 0.88. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $59.99 and a 200-day simple moving average of $63.72. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11, a quick ratio of 0.99 and a current ratio of 0.99. Toronto-Dominion Bank Cuts Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 31st. Shareholders of record on Monday, July 10th will be issued a $0.709 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, July 7th. This represents a $2.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.98%. Toronto-Dominion Banks dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 47.65%. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. CWM LLC increased its position in shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank by 4.2% in the 4th quarter. CWM LLC now owns 3,631 shares of the banks stock worth $235,000 after purchasing an additional 148 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. increased its position in shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank by 1.7% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. now owns 9,868 shares of the banks stock worth $784,000 after purchasing an additional 161 shares during the last quarter. Richard P Slaughter Associates Inc grew its position in shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank by 0.8% during the 1st quarter. Richard P Slaughter Associates Inc now owns 20,592 shares of the banks stock valued at $1,233,000 after buying an additional 163 shares during the last quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp grew its position in shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank by 15.9% during the 4th quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp now owns 1,208 shares of the banks stock valued at $78,000 after buying an additional 166 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Private Trust Co. NA grew its position in shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank by 6.5% during the 4th quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 2,795 shares of the banks stock valued at $181,000 after buying an additional 171 shares during the last quarter. 49.22% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. About Toronto-Dominion Bank (Get Rating) The Toronto-Dominion Bank engages in the provision of financial products and services. It operates through the following segments: Canadian Retail, U.S. Retail, and Wholesale Banking. The Canadian Retail segment offers various financial products and services, as well as telephone, Internet, and mobile banking services. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Toronto-Dominion Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Toronto-Dominion Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cheviot Value Management LLC trimmed its position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK Get Rating) by 2.2% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 117,037 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,681 shares during the quarter. Merck & Co., Inc. comprises about 3.2% of Cheviot Value Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 13th biggest holding. Cheviot Value Management LLCs holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. were worth $13,089,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of MRK. Marion Wealth Management lifted its stake in Merck & Co., Inc. by 18.5% during the 4th quarter. Marion Wealth Management now owns 21,538 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,390,000 after acquiring an additional 3,366 shares during the period. Ascent Wealth Partners LLC lifted its stake in Merck & Co., Inc. by 3.1% during the 4th quarter. Ascent Wealth Partners LLC now owns 17,520 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,944,000 after acquiring an additional 533 shares during the period. Crescent Sterling Ltd. bought a new position in Merck & Co., Inc. during the 4th quarter valued at about $806,000. Alaska Wealth Advisors bought a new position in Merck & Co., Inc. during the 4th quarter valued at about $228,000. Finally, Drive Wealth Management LLC lifted its stake in Merck & Co., Inc. by 181.8% during the 4th quarter. Drive Wealth Management LLC now owns 10,775 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,204,000 after acquiring an additional 6,952 shares during the period. 72.89% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Merck & Co. Inc. alerts: Insider Transactions at Merck & Co., Inc. In other news, CEO Robert M. Davis sold 143,329 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $114.93, for a total transaction of $16,472,801.97. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 271,817 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $31,239,927.81. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. In other Merck & Co., Inc. news, CEO Robert M. Davis sold 143,329 shares of Merck & Co., Inc. stock in a transaction on Friday, April 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $114.93, for a total transaction of $16,472,801.97. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 271,817 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $31,239,927.81. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, VP Rita A. Karachun sold 15,875 shares of Merck & Co., Inc. stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $117.53, for a total transaction of $1,865,788.75. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 45,710 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,372,296.30. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 488,258 shares of company stock valued at $56,481,018 in the last three months. 0.20% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Merck & Co., Inc. Stock Performance NYSE MRK traded up $1.22 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $110.39. The stock had a trading volume of 3,490,612 shares, compared to its average volume of 7,758,650. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $137.36 and a 200 day moving average of $139.65. The stock has a market cap of $280.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.40, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 0.34. Merck & Co., Inc. has a 52-week low of $83.05 and a 52-week high of $119.65. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60, a quick ratio of 1.19 and a current ratio of 1.44. Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK Get Rating) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The company reported $1.40 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.34 by $0.06. Merck & Co., Inc. had a return on equity of 37.92% and a net margin of 22.52%. The firm had revenue of $14.49 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.81 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $2.14 earnings per share. Merck & Co., Inc.s revenue for the quarter was down 8.9% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts predict that Merck & Co., Inc. will post 6.95 earnings per share for the current year. Merck & Co., Inc. Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 10th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.73 per share. This represents a $2.92 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.65%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, June 14th. Merck & Co., Inc.s payout ratio is 57.03%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several equities analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Atlantic Securities increased their price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $122.00 to $127.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, March 7th. Credit Suisse Group increased their price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $125.00 to $126.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, March 7th. SVB Leerink increased their price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $120.00 to $122.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, February 3rd. Guggenheim increased their price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $123.00 to $124.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group began coverage on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a report on Monday, March 6th. They set a buy rating and a $125.00 price objective for the company. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, sixteen have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Merck & Co., Inc. presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $120.75. Merck & Co., Inc. Company Profile (Get Rating) Merck & Co, Inc is a health care company, which engages in the provision of health solutions through its prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, animal health, and consumer care products. It operates through the following segments: Pharmaceutical, Animal Health, and Other. The Pharmaceutical segment includes human health pharmaceutical and vaccine products. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding MRK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Merck & Co. Inc. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. The Chiba Bank, Ltd. (OTCMKTS:CHBAY Get Rating) reached a new 52-week high on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $37.38 and last traded at $37.38, with a volume of 0 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $37.38. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Separately, Daiwa Capital Markets lowered Chiba Bank from an outperform rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. Get Chiba Bank alerts: Chiba Bank Price Performance The businesss fifty day moving average is $37.38 and its 200 day moving average is $33.97. About Chiba Bank The Chiba Bank, Ltd. engages in the business of banking services. The company offers general banking services including deposits, loans, domestic and foreign exchange transactions; and financial services such as leasing, securities brokerage, credit cards and others. It also develops software; and provides business management and staffing services. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Chiba Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chiba Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Commerzbank AG (OTCMKTS:CRZBY Get Rating) declared a dividend on Wednesday, May 31st, investing.com reports. Investors of record on Friday, June 2nd will be paid a dividend of 0.1422 per share by the financial services provider on Thursday, June 15th. This represents a yield of 1.38%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 1st. Commerzbank Price Performance OTCMKTS:CRZBY traded down $0.14 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $10.31. The companys stock had a trading volume of 22,298 shares, compared to its average volume of 18,883. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $10.79 and a 200-day simple moving average of $10.31. Commerzbank has a 1 year low of $5.70 and a 1 year high of $12.75. Get Commerzbank alerts: Commerzbank (OTCMKTS:CRZBY Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 17th. The financial services provider reported $0.49 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $2.86 billion during the quarter. Analysts Set New Price Targets About Commerzbank Separately, Bank of America lowered shares of Commerzbank from a neutral rating to an underperform rating in a report on Friday, May 19th. (Get Rating) Commerzbank AG engages in the provision of commercial banking services. It operates through the following business segments: Private and Small-Businesses Customers, Corporate Clients, and Others & Consolidation. The Private and Small-Businesses Customers segment is comprised of the universal bank services for private and small-business customers, online securities transactions, and asset management. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Commerzbank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Commerzbank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Daqo New Energy Corp. (NYSE:DQ Get Rating) was the recipient of a significant decline in short interest during the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 3,360,000 shares, a decline of 5.6% from the April 30th total of 3,560,000 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 1,220,000 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 2.8 days. Daqo New Energy Price Performance Shares of NYSE DQ traded down $1.26 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $36.93. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,451,092 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,205,112. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $43.88 and a two-hundred day moving average of $45.56. Daqo New Energy has a 52 week low of $36.31 and a 52 week high of $77.18. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.75 billion, a PE ratio of 1.79 and a beta of 0.51. Get Daqo New Energy alerts: Daqo New Energy (NYSE:DQ Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 28th. The semiconductor company reported $4.71 earnings per share for the quarter. Daqo New Energy had a return on equity of 25.68% and a net margin of 39.70%. The firm had revenue of $864.25 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.13 billion. Analysts anticipate that Daqo New Energy will post 17.61 EPS for the current fiscal year. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in DQ. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. boosted its position in Daqo New Energy by 0.6% during the third quarter. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. now owns 40,481 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $2,149,000 after purchasing an additional 233 shares in the last quarter. Ensign Peak Advisors Inc increased its holdings in shares of Daqo New Energy by 6.3% in the first quarter. Ensign Peak Advisors Inc now owns 4,250 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $176,000 after purchasing an additional 250 shares during the last quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. increased its stake in Daqo New Energy by 4.1% during the third quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 7,383 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $392,000 after acquiring an additional 288 shares during the last quarter. Pictet Asset Management SA increased its stake in Daqo New Energy by 0.4% during the third quarter. Pictet Asset Management SA now owns 73,200 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $3,885,000 after acquiring an additional 289 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Mondrian Investment Partners LTD increased its stake in Daqo New Energy by 35.6% during the first quarter. Mondrian Investment Partners LTD now owns 1,116 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $52,000 after acquiring an additional 293 shares during the last quarter. Several analysts recently commented on DQ shares. HSBC lifted their price objective on Daqo New Energy from $44.60 to $45.60 in a report on Monday, May 1st. Daiwa Capital Markets raised Daqo New Energy from a neutral rating to an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, May 4th. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on Daqo New Energy in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating for the company. About Daqo New Energy (Get Rating) Daqo New Energy Corp. is a holding company, which engages in the provision of polysilicon products. It involves in the manufacture and sale of polysilicon to photovoltaic product manufactures, who further process the polysilicon into ingots, wafers, cells, and modules for solar power solutions. The company was founded by Guang Fu Xu on November 22, 2007 and is headquartered in Shanghai, China. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Daqo New Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Daqo New Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. Recently, the activity around Iran's nuclear program has picked up, in particular with some countries, Trend reports. In particular, Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq visited Iran and held talks with Iranian officials. Also, Iran and the IAEA announced that they have made progress on some issues related to the nuclear program. On the other hand, the US is taking various steps in this direction. Brett McGurk, US President Joe Biden's senior Middle East adviser secretly visited Oman and discussed with Omani officials the possibility of an agreement with Iran on Iran's nuclear program. Also, the US State Department's Special Representative for Iran Robert Malley also said in his statement that Washington is seeking a diplomatic solution with Tehran regarding Iran's nuclear program. Malley said that the goal of the US is to find a way to guarantee that Iran will not be able to obtain a nuclear weapon. On the other hand, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has repeatedly stated that Iran is not after nuclear weapons. However, Iran's continuation of its nuclear program outside the provisions of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) has caused certain concerns. Reportedly, on June 15, 2023, a meeting of the Board of Directors of the International Atomic Energy Agency will be held in Vienna. A number of issues will be discussed at the meeting, including the implementation of the agreement on Iran's nuclear activities and control of nuclear facilities within the UN Security Council Resolution No. 2231. During the recent talks, two important controversial issues were resolved between the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). As reported, the issue raised by the IAEA regarding the Abadeh nuclear facility in Fars province in the south of Iran, as well as the issue about the discovery of 83.7 percent enriched uranium remains in Iran, have already been resolved. In January 2016, JCPOA was launched between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, UK, France, and Germany) in connection with Iran's nuclear program. In May 2018, the US announced its withdrawal from the deal and imposed sanctions on Iran in November of the same year. To preserve the agreements reached as part of the JCPOA, the European signatories of the deal started in January 2019 that a financial mechanism for maintaining trade with Iran called INSTEX was formed. On May 8, 2019, Iran announced that it had ceased fulfilling its commitments regarding the sale of over 300 kilograms of uranium, as stated in the deal, basing its decision on the other signatories that have not fulfilled their obligations. On July 7, Iran announced that it will not be fulfilling its commitments regarding the enrichment of uranium at 3.67 percent and the reconstruction of the Arak Heavy Water Reactor Facility as stated in the deal. Iran announced that it will enrich uranium using next-generation centrifuges and will not mix it with the enriched uranium residues as part of the third step of reducing commitments in JCPOA on Sept.5. On Nov. 5, 2019, Iran announced that it took the fourth step in connection with reducing its commitments to the nuclear agreement. So, uranium gas is being pumped to the centrifuges at the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant. On Jan.2020, Iran took the last fifth step in reducing the number of its commitments within JCPOA. On May 8, 2018, the US announced its withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the 5+1 group (Russia, China, the UK, France, the US, and Germany), and imposed new sanctions against Iran as of November 2018. Over the past period, the sanctions affected Iranian oil exports, more than 700 banks, companies, and individuals. The sanctions have resulted in the freezing of Iranian assets abroad. --- Follow the author on Twitter:@BaghishovElnur Davide Campari-Milano (OTCMKTS:DVDCF Get Rating) saw a large increase in short interest in May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 3,911,500 shares, an increase of 6.0% from the April 30th total of 3,688,800 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 38,800 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 100.8 days. Davide Campari-Milano Price Performance Shares of Davide Campari-Milano stock remained flat at $12.70 on Tuesday. 24,074 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 91,398. The companys 50 day moving average price is $12.68 and its 200-day moving average price is $11.51. Davide Campari-Milano has a 52-week low of $8.55 and a 52-week high of $13.56. Get Davide Campari-Milano alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of brokerages recently issued reports on DVDCF. Barclays upped their price target on shares of Davide Campari-Milano to 10.70 ($11.51) in a research note on Wednesday, April 12th. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on shares of Davide Campari-Milano to 13.00 ($13.98) in a report on Tuesday, April 18th. Finally, Credit Suisse Group raised their price target on shares of Davide Campari-Milano to 12.50 ($13.44) in a report on Wednesday, May 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Davide Campari-Milano has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $11.75. About Davide Campari-Milano Davide Campari-Milano NV is a holding company, which engages in the production and distribution of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The firm operates through its geographic segments: the Americas; Southern Europe; Middle East and Africa; Northern, Central and Eastern Europe; Asia-Pacific. Its product offerings include aperitifs, vodka, whisky, tequila, rum, gin, liqueurs, and sparkling and still wines under internation brands which include Campari, Aperol, Sky Vodka, Wild Turkey, Appleton Estate, Grand Marnier, and Wray and Nephew. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Davide Campari-Milano Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Davide Campari-Milano and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Dollarama Inc. (TSE:DOL Get Rating) Equities researchers at National Bank Financial dropped their Q4 2024 earnings per share estimates for Dollarama in a report released on Wednesday, May 24th. National Bank Financial analyst V. Shreedhar now forecasts that the company will post earnings per share of $0.98 for the quarter, down from their prior estimate of $0.99. The consensus estimate for Dollaramas current full-year earnings is $3.66 per share. Get Dollarama alerts: Dollarama (TSE:DOL Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, March 29th. The company reported C$0.91 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of C$0.83 by C$0.08. Dollarama had a return on equity of 2,563.29% and a net margin of 15.87%. The company had revenue of C$1.47 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of C$1.36 billion. Dollarama Stock Down 1.5 % Several other brokerages have also recently issued reports on DOL. Desjardins restated a buy rating on shares of Dollarama in a research report on Wednesday, March 29th. CIBC boosted their price target on Dollarama from C$84.00 to C$89.00 in a research report on Thursday, March 30th. Scotiabank boosted their price target on Dollarama from C$93.00 to C$95.00 in a research report on Tuesday. National Bankshares boosted their price target on Dollarama from C$92.00 to C$93.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, May 25th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price objective on Dollarama from C$95.00 to C$98.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, May 25th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of C$90.17. DOL opened at C$82.00 on Monday. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is C$82.65 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$80.87. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 14,849.75, a quick ratio of 0.08 and a current ratio of 1.00. Dollarama has a one year low of C$68.90 and a one year high of C$85.88. The stock has a market capitalization of C$23.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 29.82, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 0.73. Insider Buying and Selling at Dollarama In other news, Senior Officer Johanne Choiniere sold 8,482 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, March 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of C$80.63, for a total transaction of C$683,862.10. 3.97% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Dollarama Increases Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 5th. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 5th were issued a $0.071 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, April 13th. This is an increase from Dollaramas previous quarterly dividend of $0.06. This represents a $0.28 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.35%. Dollaramas payout ratio is 10.18%. About Dollarama (Get Rating) Dollarama Inc operates a chain of dollar stores in Canada. Its stores offer general merchandise, consumables, and seasonal products. The company also sells its products through online store. As of July 31, 2022, it operated 1,444 stores. The company was formerly known as Dollarama Capital Corporation and changed its name to Dollarama Inc in September 2009. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Dollarama Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dollarama and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF (NYSEARCA:SMLF Get Rating) shares saw unusually-high trading volume on Wednesday . Approximately 178,276 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 83% from the previous sessions volume of 97,642 shares.The stock last traded at $49.83 and had previously closed at $49.89. iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF Price Performance The company has a fifty day moving average price of $50.09 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $51.45. The firm has a market cap of $871.53 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.77 and a beta of 1.10. Get iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF alerts: Institutional Trading of iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV raised its holdings in shares of iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF by 7.8% in the 1st quarter. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV now owns 5,333,687 shares of the companys stock worth $273,405,000 after buying an additional 386,693 shares in the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its position in shares of iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF by 5.8% in the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 5,100,180 shares of the companys stock worth $261,435,000 after purchasing an additional 280,276 shares during the last quarter. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF by 0.4% in the 4th quarter. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC now owns 509,818 shares of the companys stock worth $25,318,000 after purchasing an additional 2,192 shares during the last quarter. Acropolis Investment Management LLC bought a new position in iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF during the first quarter worth about $24,386,000. Finally, Financial Management Professionals Inc. lifted its holdings in iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF by 0.8% during the first quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. now owns 417,406 shares of the companys stock worth $21,396,000 after acquiring an additional 3,300 shares in the last quarter. iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF Company Profile The iShares MSCI USA Small-Cap Multifactor ETF (SMLF) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the STOXX U.S. SmallCap Equity Factor index. The fund tracks an index of small-cap US equities. Stocks are selected and weighted to increase exposure to four factors (quality, value, momentum, and low volatility). Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares U.S. Small Cap Equity Factor ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. KB Financial Group Inc. (NYSE:KB Get Rating) saw strong trading volume on Wednesday . 93,287 shares were traded during mid-day trading, a decline of 59% from the previous sessions volume of 228,436 shares.The stock last traded at $36.22 and had previously closed at $36.59. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Bank of America decreased their target price on KB Financial Group from $55.38 to $46.15 in a research report on Wednesday, March 1st. StockNews.com assumed coverage on KB Financial Group in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Get KB Financial Group alerts: KB Financial Group Trading Down 2.4 % The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.43, a quick ratio of 1.69 and a current ratio of 1.69. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $36.73 and a 200 day simple moving average of $39.36. The company has a market cap of $14.41 billion, a P/E ratio of 4.38, a P/E/G ratio of 0.42 and a beta of 0.94. Institutional Inflows and Outflows KB Financial Group ( NYSE:KB Get Rating ) last released its earnings results on Thursday, March 2nd. The bank reported $0.60 EPS for the quarter. KB Financial Group had a return on equity of 11.56% and a net margin of 15.59%. The company had revenue of $3.43 billion for the quarter. Analysts anticipate that KB Financial Group Inc. will post 9.23 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of KB Financial Group by 20.0% during the 1st quarter. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC now owns 6,168 shares of the banks stock worth $225,000 after purchasing an additional 1,026 shares during the period. State Street Corp raised its position in shares of KB Financial Group by 2.0% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 104,011 shares of the banks stock worth $3,788,000 after purchasing an additional 2,033 shares during the period. Schonfeld Strategic Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of KB Financial Group during the 1st quarter worth approximately $572,000. Advisor Partners II LLC raised its position in shares of KB Financial Group by 16.7% during the 1st quarter. Advisor Partners II LLC now owns 24,412 shares of the banks stock worth $889,000 after purchasing an additional 3,493 shares during the period. Finally, AXA S.A. raised its position in shares of KB Financial Group by 46.6% during the 1st quarter. AXA S.A. now owns 21,307 shares of the banks stock worth $776,000 after purchasing an additional 6,769 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 5.80% of the companys stock. About KB Financial Group (Get Rating) KB Financial Group, Inc engages in providing financial services through its subsidiaries. It operates through the following segments: Corporate Banking, Retail Banking, Other Banking Services, Credit Card, Life Insurance, Investment and Securities business. The Corporate Banking business segment provides services such as loans, overdrafts, deposits, credit facilities and other foreign currency activities. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for KB Financial Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for KB Financial Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (OTCMKTS:MHVYF Get Rating) was the target of a large drop in short interest during the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 82,000 shares, a drop of 17.9% from the April 30th total of 99,900 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 1,400 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 58.6 days. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Stock Performance OTCMKTS:MHVYF traded up $0.80 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $44.00. 1,156 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,489. The firm has a market capitalization of $14.51 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.34 and a beta of 0.61. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $38.41 and a 200 day moving average price of $38.05. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a current ratio of 1.16 and a quick ratio of 0.80. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has a twelve month low of $32.80 and a twelve month high of $44.25. Get Mitsubishi Heavy Industries alerts: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Company Profile (Get Rating) Further Reading Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. engages in the manufacture and sale of ships, industrial machinery, and aircraft. It operates through the following segments: Energy, Plants and Infrastructure Systems, Logistics, Thermal and Drive Systems, and Aircraft, Defense and Space. The Energy segment handles clean gas and steam power systems, nuclear power systems, compressors, and marine machinery. Receive News & Ratings for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. OLD Point Trust & Financial Services N A lifted its position in shares of Dominion Energy, Inc. (NYSE:D Get Rating) by 1.3% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 87,067 shares of the utilities providers stock after acquiring an additional 1,150 shares during the quarter. Dominion Energy makes up 2.5% of OLD Point Trust & Financial Services N As investment portfolio, making the stock its 15th largest position. OLD Point Trust & Financial Services N As holdings in Dominion Energy were worth $5,339,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. JNBA Financial Advisors lifted its holdings in Dominion Energy by 85.0% during the 3rd quarter. JNBA Financial Advisors now owns 370 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $26,000 after purchasing an additional 170 shares in the last quarter. Covestor Ltd lifted its holdings in Dominion Energy by 49.8% during the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 394 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $34,000 after purchasing an additional 131 shares in the last quarter. Retirement Financial Solutions LLC purchased a new stake in Dominion Energy during the 4th quarter worth about $29,000. Boyd Watterson Asset Management LLC OH purchased a new stake in Dominion Energy during the 4th quarter worth about $34,000. Finally, Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities Co. Ltd. purchased a new stake in shares of Dominion Energy in the 4th quarter valued at about $35,000. Institutional investors own 70.30% of the companys stock. Get Dominion Energy alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities analysts recently issued reports on D shares. Credit Suisse Group reduced their price target on Dominion Energy from $67.00 to $58.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, February 14th. StockNews.com upgraded Dominion Energy from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, May 20th. Mizuho cut their price objective on Dominion Energy from $62.00 to $58.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, February 27th. Bank of America lowered their target price on Dominion Energy from $54.00 to $52.00 in a research note on Tuesday, May 16th. Finally, Guggenheim lowered their price objective on Dominion Energy from $69.00 to $63.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, February 28th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have given a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Dominion Energy presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $63.55. Dominion Energy Price Performance Shares of NYSE:D traded up $0.63 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $50.37. The stock had a trading volume of 1,737,630 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,388,950. The company has a current ratio of 0.75, a quick ratio of 0.62 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50. The company has a market cap of $42.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 34.79, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.66 and a beta of 0.43. Dominion Energy, Inc. has a 1 year low of $49.39 and a 1 year high of $86.28. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $55.35 and its 200 day moving average price is $58.02. Dominion Energy (NYSE:D Get Rating) last posted its earnings results on Friday, May 5th. The utilities provider reported $0.99 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.98 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $5.25 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.46 billion. Dominion Energy had a return on equity of 12.67% and a net margin of 7.05%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 22.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $1.18 earnings per share. Research analysts expect that Dominion Energy, Inc. will post 3.77 EPS for the current fiscal year. Dominion Energy Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, June 20th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 2nd will be given a dividend of $0.6675 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 1st. This represents a $2.67 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.30%. Dominion Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 186.71%. Dominion Energy Profile (Get Rating) Dominion Energy, Inc engages in the production and distribution of energy. It operates through following business segments: Dominion Energy Virginia, Gas Distribution, Dominion Energy South Carolina, Contracted Assets, and Corporate and Other. The Corporate and Other segment focuses on corporate, service company, non-controlling interest in Dominion privatization, and non-regulated retail energy marketing operations. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding D? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Dominion Energy, Inc. (NYSE:D Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Dominion Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dominion Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM Get Rating) by 1.5% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 30,296,422 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 449,971 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC owned approximately 1.95% of Philip Morris International worth $3,061,665,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of PM. Mark Sheptoff Financial Planning LLC purchased a new position in Philip Morris International in the 3rd quarter valued at about $25,000. Riverpoint Wealth Management Holdings LLC purchased a new position in Philip Morris International in the 4th quarter valued at about $25,000. Red Tortoise LLC purchased a new position in Philip Morris International in the 4th quarter valued at about $29,000. Optiver Holding B.V. purchased a new position in Philip Morris International in the 4th quarter worth approximately $29,000. Finally, Winch Advisory Services LLC lifted its stake in Philip Morris International by 200.0% in the 4th quarter. Winch Advisory Services LLC now owns 294 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 196 shares in the last quarter. 75.85% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Philip Morris International alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of research firms recently commented on PM. UBS Group upgraded Philip Morris International from a neutral rating to a buy rating and upped their price objective for the company from $106.00 to $116.00 in a report on Wednesday, March 1st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised Philip Morris International from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and raised their price objective for the stock from $109.00 to $116.00 in a report on Thursday, March 30th. Morgan Stanley increased their target price on shares of Philip Morris International from $109.00 to $118.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, February 2nd. Stifel Nicolaus assumed coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. They set a buy rating and a $114.00 target price for the company. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating for the company. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating and seven have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $110.60. Philip Morris International Stock Down 0.1 % PM traded down $0.12 during midday trading on Wednesday, hitting $90.09. 3,609,656 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,435,958. The firm has a market capitalization of $139.84 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.15, a P/E/G ratio of 2.30 and a beta of 0.68. The firms 50 day moving average price is $95.91 and its 200-day moving average price is $98.78. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 1-year low of $82.85 and a 1-year high of $107.72. Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM Get Rating) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, April 20th. The company reported $1.38 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.34 by $0.04. The firm had revenue of $8.10 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.03 billion. Philip Morris International had a negative return on equity of 128.55% and a net margin of 10.80%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 4.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.56 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.2 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, April 11th. Investors of record on Thursday, March 23rd were paid a dividend of $1.27 per share. This represents a $5.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.64%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, March 22nd. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 90.88%. Insider Activity In other news, insider Werner Barth sold 8,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred 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 transaction, the insider now directly owns 87,321 shares in the company, valued at $8,588,020.35. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.15% of the companys stock. About Philip Morris International (Get Rating) Philip Morris International, Inc is a holding company engaged in the manufacturing and sale of cigarettes, tobacco, and nicotine-containing products. Its products include cigarettes and reduced-risk products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products. The firm operates through the following geographical segments: European Union, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, South and Southeast Asia, East Asia and Australia, and Americas. Featured Stories 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). Receive News & Ratings for Philip Morris International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Philip Morris International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Phoenix Holdings Ltd. cut its holdings in Agilent Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:A Get Rating) by 6.3% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 4,192 shares of the medical research companys stock after selling 281 shares during the period. Phoenix Holdings Ltd.s holdings in Agilent Technologies were worth $633,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of A. BlackRock Inc. increased its position in Agilent Technologies by 1.9% in the third quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 32,943,190 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $4,004,242,000 after buying an additional 629,153 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Agilent Technologies by 1.0% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 24,955,720 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $3,033,368,000 after purchasing an additional 257,455 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp increased its stake in shares of Agilent Technologies by 0.6% in the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 13,152,295 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $1,598,661,000 after purchasing an additional 73,495 shares in the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its position in shares of Agilent Technologies by 10.7% in the third quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 6,478,670 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $787,483,000 after purchasing an additional 627,517 shares during the period. Finally, Principal Financial Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Agilent Technologies by 7.2% during the 4th quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 3,341,738 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $500,091,000 after buying an additional 223,008 shares in the last quarter. Get Agilent Technologies alerts: Agilent Technologies Stock Down 2.2 % Shares of NYSE A opened at $117.73 on Wednesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $34.81 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.93, a PEG ratio of 1.95 and a beta of 1.03. Agilent Technologies, Inc. has a one year low of $112.52 and a one year high of $160.26. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $132.60 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $143.50. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a current ratio of 2.37 and a quick ratio of 1.71. Agilent Technologies Announces Dividend Agilent Technologies ( NYSE:A Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, May 23rd. The medical research company reported $1.27 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.26 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $1.72 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.67 billion. Agilent Technologies had a net margin of 19.19% and a return on equity of 30.11%. The firms revenue was up 6.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.13 EPS. As a group, analysts expect that Agilent Technologies, Inc. will post 5.62 EPS for the current fiscal year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, July 26th. Investors of record on Monday, July 3rd will be given a dividend of $0.225 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, June 30th. This represents a $0.90 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.76%. Agilent Technologiess payout ratio is 19.82%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. TD Cowen lowered their target price on shares of Agilent Technologies from $168.00 to $145.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, May 24th. Evercore ISI lowered their price target on shares of Agilent Technologies from $150.00 to $126.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, May 24th. 1-800-FLOWERS.COM reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of Agilent Technologies in a research note on Wednesday, May 24th. 888 reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of Agilent Technologies in a report on Wednesday, May 24th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Agilent Technologies in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $151.35. Agilent Technologies Profile (Get Rating) Agilent Technologies, Inc engages in the provision of application focused solutions for life sciences, diagnostics, and applied chemical markets. It operates through the following segments: Life Sciences and Applied Markets, Diagnostics and Genomics, and Agilent CrossLab. The Life Sciences and Applied Markets segment offers application-focused solutions that include instruments and software that identify, quantify, and analyze the physical and biological properties of substances and products, as well as the clinical and life sciences research areas to interrogate samples at the molecular and cellular level. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Agilent Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Agilent Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Pitcairn Co. trimmed its position in Rio Tinto Group (NYSE:RIO Get Rating) by 2.6% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 10,476 shares of the mining companys stock after selling 278 shares during the period. Pitcairn Co.s holdings in Rio Tinto Group were worth $746,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Cowa LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Rio Tinto Group during the 1st quarter valued at $26,000. CNB Bank bought a new stake in Rio Tinto Group in the 4th quarter worth $28,000. Standard Family Office LLC bought a new stake in shares of Rio Tinto Group during the 3rd quarter valued at about $37,000. Penserra Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Rio Tinto Group during the 3rd quarter valued at about $38,000. Finally, Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. boosted its stake in shares of Rio Tinto Group by 90.6% during the 1st quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. now owns 686 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $55,000 after purchasing an additional 326 shares in the last quarter. 10.43% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Rio Tinto Group alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several equities research analysts recently commented on RIO shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised shares of Rio Tinto Group from an underweight rating to a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, May 15th. The Goldman Sachs Group raised shares of Rio Tinto Group from a buy rating to a conviction-buy rating in a report on Thursday, March 2nd. CLSA raised shares of Rio Tinto Group from an underperform rating to an outperform rating in a report on Monday, March 13th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Rio Tinto Group in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised shares of Rio Tinto Group from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating in a report on Friday, May 26th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating, seven have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $5,790.00. Rio Tinto Group Stock Down 1.1 % Rio Tinto Group Company Profile NYSE:RIO traded down $0.68 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $59.52. 1,060,130 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,219,015. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21, a quick ratio of 1.10 and a current ratio of 1.64. The stocks 50-day moving average is $64.56 and its 200-day moving average is $69.20. Rio Tinto Group has a twelve month low of $50.92 and a twelve month high of $80.51. (Get Rating) Rio Tinto Plc engages in the exploration, mining, and processing of mineral resources. It operates through the following business segments: Iron Ore, Aluminium, Copper and Diamonds, Energy and Minerals, and Other Operations. The Iron Ore segment supplies global seaborne iron ore trade. The Aluminium segment produces bauxite, alumina and primary aluminum. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding RIO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Rio Tinto Group (NYSE:RIO Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Rio Tinto Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rio Tinto Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc (LON:RR.L Get Rating) have been assigned an average recommendation of Hold from the seven ratings firms that are covering the stock, Marketbeat reports. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the company. The average twelve-month price target among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is GBX 97.83 ($1.21). A number of brokerages have recently commented on RR.L. Berenberg Bank reissued a hold rating and set a GBX 100 ($1.24) price objective on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc in a report on Friday, February 24th. Shore Capital reissued a buy rating on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc in a report on Tuesday, February 28th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reissued an underweight rating and set a GBX 70 ($0.87) price objective on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc in a report on Monday, February 13th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada reissued an underweight rating and set a GBX 70 ($0.87) price objective on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc in a report on Monday, February 6th. Get Rolls-Royce Holdings plc alerts: Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Stock Performance The firm has a market cap of 12.14 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -517.86, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.31 and a beta of 1.70. The firms 50 day moving average is GBX 105.13 and its 200-day moving average is GBX 89.06. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc has a fifty-two week low of GBX 64.44 ($0.80) and a fifty-two week high of GBX 239.70 ($2.96). About Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Rolls-Royce Holdings plc operates as an industrial technology company in the United Kingdom and internationally. The company operates in four segments: Civil Aerospace, Power Systems, Defence, and New Markets. The Civil Aerospace segment develops, manufactures, and sells aero engines for large commercial aircraft, regional jet, and business aviation markets, as well as provides aftermarket services. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 31. The EU has doubled the volume of macro-financial assistance to Moldova, providing almost 300 million euros, the European Council said in the statement, Trend reports. According to the statement, in April 2022, the Council adopted a law that allows the EU to provide financial assistance to Moldova in the amount of 150 million euros. Today, the Council has increased this amount by 145 million euros, which means that the total amount of assistance to Moldova will reach 295 million euros. The document also explains that the EU's macro-financial assistance is aimed at supporting economic stabilization and structural reform programs in Moldova, complementing the resources provided under the financial agreement with the IMF (the International Monetary Fund). Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions Inc. (OTCMKTS:AITX Get Rating) was the target of a significant decline in short interest in May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 93,700 shares, a decline of 8.9% from the April 30th total of 102,900 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 27,569,000 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.0 days. Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions Stock Performance OTCMKTS AITX opened at $0.01 on Wednesday. Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions has a 12 month low of $0.01 and a 12 month high of $0.02. The companys 50 day moving average is $0.01 and its two-hundred day moving average is $0.01. Get Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions alerts: Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions Company Profile (Get Rating) Further Reading Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc engages in the provision of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. It focuses on delivering AI driven technologies, paired with multi-use hardware and supported by custom software and cloud services, to intelligently automate and integrate security, concierge and operational tasks. Receive News & Ratings for Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Tekla Healthcare Investors (NYSE:HQH Get Rating) was the recipient of a significant growth in short interest during the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 15,800 shares, a growth of 21.5% from the April 30th total of 13,000 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 117,800 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.1 days. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of HQH. Ameriprise Financial Inc. raised its stake in Tekla Healthcare Investors by 5.3% during the first quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 119,148 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,097,000 after acquiring an additional 6,022 shares in the last quarter. B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. raised its stake in Tekla Healthcare Investors by 0.8% during the first quarter. B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 88,276 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,559,000 after acquiring an additional 708 shares in the last quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC raised its stake in Tekla Healthcare Investors by 349,600.0% during the first quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC now owns 3,497 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $62,000 after acquiring an additional 3,496 shares in the last quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Tekla Healthcare Investors in the first quarter valued at $76,000. Finally, Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC increased its stake in shares of Tekla Healthcare Investors by 141.6% in the first quarter. Steward Partners Investment Advisory LLC now owns 13,084 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $231,000 after buying an additional 7,669 shares in the last quarter. 17.30% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Tekla Healthcare Investors alerts: Tekla Healthcare Investors Stock Down 0.8 % Tekla Healthcare Investors stock traded down $0.14 during trading hours on Tuesday, reaching $16.52. 109,265 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 128,227. Tekla Healthcare Investors has a 12 month low of $16.50 and a 12 month high of $20.73. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $17.39 and a 200 day moving average of $18.12. Tekla Healthcare Investors Cuts Dividend About Tekla Healthcare Investors The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 30th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, May 25th will be given a $0.40 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, May 24th. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 9.69%. (Get Rating) Tekla Healthcare Investors is a closed-end investment fund, which engages in investing in the healthcare industry including biotechnology, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. Its objective is to provide long-term capital appreciation through investments in companies in the healthcare industry. The company was founded on October 31, 1986 and is headquartered in Boston, MA. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Tekla Healthcare Investors Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tekla Healthcare Investors and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Shares of TELUS Co. (TSE:T Get Rating) (NYSE:TU) have received an average recommendation of Buy from the nine analysts that are covering the firm, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a buy recommendation. The average twelve-month price target among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is C$32.33. A number of brokerages have commented on T. Royal Bank of Canada reduced their target price on shares of TELUS from C$34.00 to C$33.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Friday, February 10th. Canaccord Genuity Group cut their price objective on shares of TELUS from C$33.00 to C$32.00 in a report on Friday, May 5th. Cormark cut their price objective on shares of TELUS from C$33.00 to C$32.00 in a report on Friday, May 5th. BMO Capital Markets upped their price objective on shares of TELUS from C$32.00 to C$33.00 in a report on Friday, May 5th. Finally, TD Securities upped their price objective on shares of TELUS from C$31.00 to C$32.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, May 5th. Get TELUS alerts: TELUS Stock Down 0.6 % TSE T opened at C$26.19 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 0.75 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 152.41. The company has a fifty day moving average of C$27.71 and a two-hundred day moving average of C$27.71. The firm has a market capitalization of C$37.98 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.68, a PEG ratio of 2.74 and a beta of 0.67. TELUS has a 52 week low of C$25.94 and a 52 week high of C$32.03. TELUS Increases Dividend TELUS Company Profile The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, July 4th. Investors of record on Friday, June 9th will be given a dividend of $0.364 per share. This is an increase from TELUSs previous quarterly dividend of $0.35. This represents a $1.46 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.56%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, June 8th. TELUSs payout ratio is currently 142.16%. (Get Rating) 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. Read More Receive News & Ratings for TELUS Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for TELUS and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Texas Yale Capital Corp. trimmed its holdings in Jabil Inc. (NYSE:JBL Get Rating) by 0.4% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 8,449,230 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 33,002 shares during the quarter. Jabil makes up approximately 32.9% of Texas Yale Capital Corp.s holdings, making the stock its biggest position. Texas Yale Capital Corp. owned 0.06% of Jabil worth $576,237,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Raleigh Capital Management Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Jabil by 391.8% during the 4th quarter. Raleigh Capital Management Inc. now owns 418 shares of the technology companys stock worth $29,000 after acquiring an additional 333 shares in the last quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC raised its holdings in shares of Jabil by 29.6% during the 4th quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC now owns 586 shares of the technology companys stock worth $40,000 after acquiring an additional 134 shares in the last quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. purchased a new stake in Jabil during the 1st quarter valued at $40,000. Capital Analysts LLC purchased a new stake in Jabil during the 4th quarter valued at $51,000. Finally, Accurate Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in Jabil during the 4th quarter valued at $60,000. 88.45% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Jabil alerts: Jabil Trading Down 1.8 % JBL stock traded down $1.67 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $89.59. The companys stock had a trading volume of 425,921 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,196,194. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.96, a quick ratio of 0.55 and a current ratio of 1.04. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $82.38 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $78.24. Jabil Inc. has a 1 year low of $48.80 and a 1 year high of $92.65. The firm has a market capitalization of $11.89 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.23, a PEG ratio of 0.98 and a beta of 1.44. Jabil Dividend Announcement Jabil ( NYSE:JBL Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, March 16th. The technology company reported $1.76 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.73 by $0.03. Jabil had a return on equity of 39.80% and a net margin of 2.74%. The business had revenue of $8.13 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.09 billion. On average, equities research analysts predict that Jabil Inc. will post 7.77 EPS for the current year. The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 2nd. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 15th will be given a dividend of $0.08 per share. This represents a $0.32 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.36%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, May 12th. Jabils payout ratio is 4.64%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several analysts recently weighed in on JBL shares. StockNews.com started coverage on Jabil in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a buy rating on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their price target on Jabil from $80.00 to $90.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, March 17th. Credit Suisse Group increased their price target on Jabil from $90.00 to $110.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, February 21st. Finally, Raymond James increased their price target on Jabil from $84.00 to $100.00 and gave the company a strong-buy rating in a report on Tuesday, March 14th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, three have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Jabil has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $92.20. Insider Transactions at Jabil In other news, SVP Francis Mckay sold 1,197 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $82.91, for a total transaction of $99,243.27. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 51,084 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,235,374.44. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In related news, CEO Steven D. Borges sold 8,483 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $83.40, for a total transaction of $707,482.20. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 159,129 shares of the companys stock, valued at $13,271,358.60. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, SVP Francis Mckay sold 1,197 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $82.91, for a total value of $99,243.27. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 51,084 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,235,374.44. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 2.75% of the companys stock. Jabil Profile (Get Rating) Jabil, Inc engages in the provision of electronic manufacturing services and solutions. It offers electronics design, production, product management, and repair services to companies in the automotive and transportation, capital equipment, consumer lifestyles and wearable technologies, computing and storage, defense and aerospace, digital home, healthcare, industrial and energy, mobility, networking and telecommunications, packaging, point of sale, and printing industries. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding JBL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Jabil Inc. (NYSE:JBL Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Jabil Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Jabil and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Galvin Gaustad & Stein LLC lifted its position in shares of The Bank of New York Mellon Co. (NYSE:BK Get Rating) by 12.1% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 496,507 shares of the banks stock after acquiring an additional 53,713 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon makes up approximately 2.3% of Galvin Gaustad & Stein LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 8th largest position. Galvin Gaustad & Stein LLC owned approximately 0.06% of Bank of New York Mellon worth $22,601,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio grew its position in Bank of New York Mellon by 0.5% in the 3rd quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 436,802 shares of the banks stock worth $16,826,000 after purchasing an additional 2,220 shares during the period. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Bank of New York Mellon in the 4th quarter worth approximately $78,000. Teza Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in Bank of New York Mellon in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $1,962,000. Meritage Portfolio Management grew its position in Bank of New York Mellon by 4.8% in the 4th quarter. Meritage Portfolio Management now owns 98,444 shares of the banks stock worth $4,481,000 after purchasing an additional 4,538 shares during the period. Finally, Wrapmanager Inc. bought a new stake in Bank of New York Mellon in the 4th quarter worth approximately $203,000. Institutional investors own 82.29% of the companys stock. Get Bank of New York Mellon alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of equities research analysts have commented on BK shares. Wells Fargo & Company cut their target price on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $52.00 to $51.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $46.00 to $47.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Bank of New York Mellon in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating for the company. 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. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price objective on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $44.00 to $49.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. 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 companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $51.61. Bank of New York Mellon Price Performance BK stock traded down $0.48 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $40.21. The company had a trading volume of 1,877,497 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,619,619. The company has a market capitalization of $31.73 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.88, a P/E/G ratio of 1.08 and a beta of 1.07. The Bank of New York Mellon Co. has a 12-month low of $36.22 and a 12-month high of $52.26. The company has a quick ratio of 0.69, a current ratio of 0.69 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.92. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $42.84 and a 200 day moving average price of $45.82. Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:BK Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 18th. The bank reported $1.12 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.09 by $0.03. The business had revenue of $4.36 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.40 billion. Bank of New York Mellon had a net margin of 11.98% and a return on equity of 11.45%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 11.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $0.86 EPS. On average, research analysts anticipate that The Bank of New York Mellon Co. will post 4.73 earnings per share for the current year. Bank of New York Mellon Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, May 11th. Stockholders of record on Friday, April 28th were given a dividend of $0.37 per share. This represents a $1.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.68%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, April 27th. Bank of New York Mellons dividend payout ratio is 46.84%. 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. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BK? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Bank of New York Mellon Co. (NYSE:BK Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Bank of New York Mellon Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bank of New York Mellon and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. UiPath Inc. (NYSE:PATH Get Rating) shot up 4.8% during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $17.40 and last traded at $17.36. 9,617,591 shares were traded during trading, an increase of 42% from the average session volume of 6,794,031 shares. The stock had previously closed at $16.57. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several brokerages have recently issued reports on PATH. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on UiPath from $16.00 to $18.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. DA Davidson initiated coverage on UiPath in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. They issued a neutral rating and a $16.00 target price for the company. Royal Bank of Canada upped their target price on UiPath from $17.00 to $18.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 29th. TD Cowen upped their target price on UiPath from $20.00 to $22.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, April 3rd. Finally, Mizuho upped their target price on UiPath from $15.00 to $16.00 in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $18.87. Get UiPath alerts: UiPath Stock Performance The firms 50 day simple moving average is $15.45 and its 200-day simple moving average is $14.52. Insider Buying and Selling at UiPath UiPath ( NYSE:PATH Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, March 15th. The healthcare company reported ($0.03) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($0.05) by $0.02. UiPath had a negative net margin of 21.55% and a negative return on equity of 10.18%. The company had revenue of $308.55 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $278.14 million. Equities research analysts anticipate that UiPath Inc. will post -0.33 earnings per share for the current year. In other news, CAO Hitesh Ramani sold 12,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, March 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $17.01, for a total value of $204,120.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 407,349 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,929,006.49. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other UiPath news, CFO Ashim Gupta sold 40,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, March 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $16.96, for a total transaction of $678,400.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 1,319,051 shares of the companys stock, valued at $22,371,104.96. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, CAO Hitesh Ramani sold 12,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, March 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $17.01, for a total transaction of $204,120.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 407,349 shares in the company, valued at $6,929,006.49. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 92,000 shares of company stock valued at $1,529,720 in the last three months. 31.88% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Hedge Funds Weigh In On UiPath Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Titleist Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in UiPath during the first quarter worth $493,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its position in UiPath by 127.6% during the first quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 797,003 shares of the healthcare companys stock worth $13,995,000 after buying an additional 446,751 shares during the last quarter. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. increased its position in UiPath by 531.2% during the first quarter. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. now owns 20,741 shares of the healthcare companys stock worth $364,000 after buying an additional 17,455 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp increased its position in UiPath by 5.3% during the first quarter. State Street Corp now owns 5,510,987 shares of the healthcare companys stock worth $96,773,000 after buying an additional 276,264 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Sassicaia Capital Advisers LLC bought a new stake in UiPath during the first quarter valued at about $181,000. 56.40% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. UiPath Company Profile (Get Rating) UiPath Inc provides an end-to-end automation platform that offers a range of robotic process automation (RPA) solutions primarily in the United States, Romania, and Japan. The company offers a suite of interrelated software to build, manage, run, engage, measure, and govern automation within the organization. Read More Receive News & Ratings for UiPath Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UiPath and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund (NYSE:AIO Get Rating) announced a monthly dividend on Monday, May 29th, Wall Street Journal reports. Investors of record on Friday, August 11th will be paid a dividend of 0.15 per share on Friday, September 1st. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 10.74%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, August 10th. Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund Price Performance AIO stock opened at $16.76 on Wednesday. Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund has a 52-week low of $14.92 and a 52-week high of $19.11. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $16.78 and its 200-day simple moving average is $16.89. Get Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund alerts: Hedge Funds Weigh In On Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund Hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Advisors Asset Management Inc. raised its position in shares of Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund by 39.5% during the 1st quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 267,380 shares of the companys stock worth $5,845,000 after purchasing an additional 75,695 shares during the last quarter. Royal Bank of Canada lifted its position in shares of Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund by 16.9% in the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 262,242 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,732,000 after acquiring an additional 37,935 shares in the last quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund by 41.5% in the first quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 115,834 shares of the companys stock worth $2,024,000 after acquiring an additional 33,944 shares during the last quarter. Stifel Financial Corp increased its position in shares of Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund by 1.3% during the first quarter. Stifel Financial Corp now owns 95,141 shares of the companys stock worth $1,655,000 after purchasing an additional 1,266 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. acquired a new position in Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund in the 1st quarter valued at $648,000. About Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund The Fund seeks to generate a stable income stream and growth of capital by focusing on one of the most significant long-term secular growth opportunities in markets today. A multi-asset approach based on fundamental research is employed, dynamically allocating to attractive segments of a companys debt and equity in order to offer an attractive risk/reward profile. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Virtus Artificial Intelligence & Technology Opportunities Fund and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. HFR Wealth Management LLC decreased its holdings in shares of Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM Get Rating) by 0.5% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 57,730 shares of the business services providers stock after selling 272 shares during the period. Waste Management makes up approximately 2.6% of HFR Wealth Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 21st largest position. HFR Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Waste Management were worth $9,057,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in WM. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in Waste Management by 2.8% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 36,984,227 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $5,925,244,000 after buying an additional 1,016,798 shares in the last quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership increased its stake 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 purchasing an additional 804,708 shares in the last quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec increased its stake 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 purchasing an additional 461,425 shares in the last quarter. CI Investments Inc. increased its stake in shares of Waste Management by 361.8% during the 4th quarter. CI Investments Inc. now owns 325,578 shares of the business services providers stock worth $51,077,000 after purchasing an additional 255,073 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Impax Asset Management Group plc increased its stake in shares of Waste Management by 13.7% during the 4th quarter. Impax Asset Management Group plc now owns 2,069,181 shares of the business services providers stock worth $324,613,000 after purchasing an additional 249,154 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.48% of the companys stock. Get Waste Management alerts: Waste Management Stock Performance Waste Management stock traded down $0.29 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $161.87. 642,726 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,712,584. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $163.85 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $159.11. The firm has a market cap of $65.85 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.68, a PEG ratio of 2.65 and a beta of 0.72. Waste Management, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $138.89 and a fifty-two week high of $175.98. The company has a current ratio of 0.87, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.21. Waste Management Dividend Announcement Waste Management ( NYSE:WM Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 26th. The business services provider reported $1.31 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.29 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $4.89 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.86 billion. Waste Management had a net margin of 11.33% and a return on equity of 33.23%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 5.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $1.29 EPS. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Waste Management, Inc. will post 6.03 earnings per share for the current year. The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 16th. Investors of record on Friday, June 2nd will be paid a dividend of $0.70 per share. This represents a $2.80 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.73%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 1st. Waste Managements dividend payout ratio is presently 51.28%. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research firms have commented on WM. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Waste Management in a research note on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Morgan Stanley lifted their target price on shares of Waste Management from $179.00 to $181.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Thursday, April 6th. 51job reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of Waste Management in a research note on Thursday, April 27th. Citigroup lifted their price target on shares of Waste Management from $180.00 to $186.00 in a report on Sunday, April 30th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft decreased their price target on shares of Waste Management from $157.00 to $151.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Monday, February 6th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Waste Management currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $176.64. About Waste Management (Get Rating) Waste Management, Inc is a holding company, which engages in the provision of waste management environmental services. It operates through the following segments: East Tier, West Tier, and Other. The East Tier segment consists of Eastern U.S., the Great Lakes Region, and Canada. The West Tier segment includes the upper Midwest region and British Columbia, Canada. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for Waste Management Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Waste Management and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Egypt's Minister of Finance and Head of the General Authority for the Universal Health Insurance System (UHIS), Mohamed Maait, announced on Sunday that the government plans to raise healthcare spending by 15 percent in FY 2023/24. Egypt has secured the release of 156,000 tons of corn and soybeans worth $78 million from ports between 26 May and 1 June, Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation El-Sayed El-Qusair said in a statement on Monday. Aussie arrested over road-rage incident PHUKET: An Australian man has been arrested for damage done to a passenger van in a road rage incident that saw him damage the vans rear-view mirrors. tourismtransportpolice By The Phuket News Wednesday 31 May 2023, 01:09PM Wichit Police, who publicly announced the arrest last night, named the Australian man only as Mr Navale. Wichit Police reported that they had received a complaint about the incident at 10:18am yesterday. Officers were informed that Mr Navale from Australia and a Mr Haider from Dubai (sic) had attacked a passenger van, registered in Songkhla province, by destroying a minivans side mirrors, the report said. The report did not clarify Mr Haiders nationality, but did note that the damage was inflicted by hand. Apparently a good samaritan had provided video footage showing the incident, police reported. Officers responded to the complaint and invited Mr Navale to come with them to Wichit Police Station. By that time Mr Haider had fled and police are currently searching for him, the report noted. According to the report, Mr Navale admitted to police that he and his friend did hit the mirrors. He said they did so because they were angry that the van driver had beeped his horn and chased them, zooming close to their vehicle. They got out of the vehicle with anger and destroyed the mirrors, the report said. Mr Navale has been charged with "threatening other people and causing loss of property" and will face legal prosecution, Wichit Police noted. Wichit Police refused to explain over the phone to The Phuket News any further details of the incident, namely any behaviour the passenger van driver might have done that may have inspired the road rage incident. The reporter must present himself in person in order for officers to provide any further details, The Phuket News was told. Dupre not to stand trial in Phuket, police chief confirms PHUKET: Matthew Dupre, extradited to Thailand for his part in shooting dead Canadian gangster Jimi Singh Slice Sandhu, will not be brought to Phuket to stand trial, Phuket Provincial Police Chief Maj Gen Sermphan Sirikong has confirmed. Wednesday 31 May 2023, 02:57PM All the legal processes will be done in Bangkok. Maj Gen Sirikong told The Phuket News. Dupre arrived in Bangkok under heavy armed guard on Sunday night (May 28). He is being held in prison in Bangkok, Maj Gen Sirikong said. This case happened in Phuket, but involves transnational organised crime. Phuket [police] had the arrest warrant issued, but then we transferred the case to the Central Investigation Bureau [CIB], he said. The CIB then requested a Red Notice [via Interpol] and then through the Office of the Attorney General had him extradited from Canada. He will be prosecuted in Bangkok. Now, the CIB is processing everything, Maj Gen Sermphan said. Phuket officers may be called on to testify in the trial, Maj Gen Sermphan added. I am not sure yet if Phuket officials will have to get involved in the court [process] at some stage as we were involved in the case from the beginning, he said. HM King, Queen to join official ceremonies during Phuket visit PHUKET: His Majesty the King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Her Majesty the Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana will lead two official ceremonies while in Phuket on Her Majestys birthday this Saturday (June 3). By The Phuket News Wednesday 31 May 2023, 11:04AM Image: via Phuket Info Center During their visit, Their Majesties will officiate the formal opening of the new Phuket Provincial Hall located at the Phuket Provincial Administration Center on Tha Kraeng Rd on the south side of Phuket Town at 5pm on Saturday. They will also officiate the setting of the foundation stone of the building that is to become the Office of the Court of Appeal Region 8. Confirmation of Their Majesties performing official duties while in Phuket came via a post by the Phuket Info Center, operated under the Phuket office of the Ministry of Interior, at 6pm last night. The post was an official invitation for the public to join the events. Pre-registration with Phuket City Municipality by tomorrow (June 1) is required. People are asked to dress appropriately for the occasion. No details explaining that Their Majesties would be performing official duties while in Phuket were made public when the royal visit was announced by Phuket Vice Governor Amnuay Pinsuwan last week. Coinciding with the royal visit and Her Majestys birthday is the major Buddhist holiday Visakha Bucha on Saturday, which in itself will invoke a nationwide ban on the sale of alcohol for the 24 hours of this Saturday, starting at midnight Friday night. Anyone caught breaking the ban faces up to six months in jail or a B10,000 fine, or both. As Her Majestys birthday and Visakha Bucha are both national public holidays, with the auspicious occasions occurring this Saturday, next Monday (June 5) will be observed as the substitution public holiday. All government offices including Immigration, District Offices and the local Department of Land Transportation office will all be closed on Saturday and next Monday. Marine officials not worried yet as speedboat driver disappears PHUKET: Senior officials at the Phuket Marine Office are not overly concerned that they have been unable to contact the driver of the tour speedboat Thanathip Marine 555 to answer questions about the boat slamming into a channel marker in Chalong Bay on May 17, injuring 35 tourists. tourismmarinetransportSafety By The Phuket News Wednesday 31 May 2023, 06:59PM Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew (in blue shirt) joins police officers as tourists injured in the collision on May 17 are admitted to hospital. Photo: PIC / file The Thanathip Marine 555 , operated by A Time Nature Tour Co, was returning to Phuket from Phi Phi Island after a tour of nearby islands when it struck the channel marker at speed late afternoon on May 17**. Phuket Marine Office Chief Natchapong Pranit told The Phuket News today (May 31) that the punishment his office will dispense over the collision is still under review. The boat driver, Satit Maschai, faces his boat operating licence being revoked, Mr Natchapong said. But they [Phuket marine officials] are waiting for him for questioning, he said. The licence should be revoked, but the process has not yet been finalised. The licence may be revoked for up to two years before he can appeal, Mr Natchapong said. The delay stems from Satit being admitted to hospital for a broken leg sustained in the collision, Mr Natchapong explained. Initially he was injured with a broken leg and in hospital, so we could not investigate him. We called him yesterday [May 30] and could not reach him, but we are looking for him for our investigation as we have already investigated everyone else in accordance with regulations under the Maritime Act, including the owner of the boat company, the tour guide, and the passengers, he continued. Mr Natchapong said that marine officials had been trying to contact the speedboat driver and asking his employer, A Time Nature Tour Co Ltd, where he lives in order to reach him and bring him in for questioning. Patchara Paopanich, who holds the position of Habour Master at the Phuket Marine Office, told The Phuket News today that Satit was discharged from hospital care on May 20. Officers have been trying to contact him since then, but have been unsuccessful, Mr Patchara said. Of note, Mr Patchara today become the first Phuket official to publicly identify the speedboat driver by name, confirming that it was Satit Maschai. A formal invitation had been issued and sent to Satits house on Monday (May 29), requesting him to present himself for questioning, Mr Patchara said. If he does not turn up within seven days from the day the letter was sent [within June 5], his [boat operators] licence will be revoked, he added. We are not worried that he would run away. He is a boat driver and still has to work in the industry, and if he disappears his licence will be revoked, Mr Patchara said. POLICE ACTION Meanwhile, Chalong Police are continuing to gather evidence to assist the Public Prosecutors Office with their prosecution, Chalong Police Chief Col Ekkarat Plaiduang told The Phuket News today. Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew has already publicly confirmed that Satit faces up to three years in prison and/or a fine of up to B60,000, or both, if he is found guilty of negligence that resulted in the collision. The charge has been filed against Satit by the Chalong Police, who will also charge Satit for drug use after a blood test conducted by Mission Hospital Phuket confirmed that he had tested positive for amphetamine/methamphetamine (ya bah/ya ice). Officers are still gathering medical documents from the injured passengers to file the case to the attorney, Col Ekkarat explained today. We are gathering documents for the prosecution. We need to get the medical certificates of the injuries and the official opinions of the doctors who provided care for the patients, he said. We have to see how many people suffered severe injuries and how many people suffered only minor injuries. There are still two patients remaining in the hospital at the moment. When in court, we need evidence to prove the drivers guilt and the attorney will ask for the medical documents, Col Ekkarat said. Commenting on the drug use charge, Col Ekkarat said, If the blood of the driver tested positive for drug use, he will be prosecuted for it as well but they need medical proof and the Phuket Provincial Police Chief [Maj Gen Sermphan Sirikong] will make a press conference to announce it, he said. ** See also: Media censorship concerns for Pita after BBC profile blocked BANGKOK: Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat expressed concern about media freedom yesterday (May 30) after a local pay-TV provider blocked a BBC profile about him. politics By Bangkok Post Wednesday 31 May 2023, 10:51AM TrueVisions subscribers tuning into the BBC channel yesterday (May 30) were greeted with the above message in place of a profile of Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat. Photo: Bangkok Post Press freedom is something we need to be rectified and made tangible, he said when asked about the issue at a news conference following a meeting of the eight parties in the coalition government that Move Forward is attempting to form, reports the Bangkok Post. At least three foreign news media outlets had been censored when carrying news about Thailand, Mr Pita said. Direct and transparent presentation of information is crucial in a democratic society. It is important for fostering creative thinking and to open the doors to innovation. But it is of serious concern if the media is gagged. Self-censorship is common in Thai media, especially where the royal defamation law is concerned, because anyone can file a complaint and judicial interpretation of what constitutes an insult is highly unpredictable. TrueVisions, for example, blocks content about Thailand by foreign media if it believes it to be sensitive. Even if an incidental mention of the lese-majeste law is not controversial in itself, an entire report can end up being censored. In an interview with Jonathan Head, the BBCs Southeast Asia correspondent, Mr Pita was asked to explain why his party wishes to amend Section 112 of the Criminal Code on royal defamation. The sentiment of the era has changed, he replied. I think we now have the maturity and tolerance to speak about the monarchy. Even conservatives understand what the role of a constitutional monarchy should be in the 21st Century. We won the votes of 14 million people. And they understood - it was clear, it was transparent - that this was one of the agendas we wanted to push. RTP agrees on Interpol centre initiative BANGKOK: The Royal Thai Police (RTP) will work with Interpol to establish a coordinating centre to tackle human trafficking gangs in Southeast Asia. crimeCannabispolice By Bangkok Post Wednesday 31 May 2023, 09:49AM Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn. Photo: Bangkok Post A source said that deputy national police chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn, director of the Child Woman Protection and Anti-human Trafficking Centre and Fishery Sector, met FBI officials to discuss human trafficking prevention at the Interpol Global Complex for Innovation in Singapore on Monday (May 29). The source said the deputy chief of RTPs Foreign Affairs Division and Immigration chief in Songkhla were also at the meeting with the FBI officials who were from its international operation unit against child violence, reports the Bangkok Post. At the meeting, the RTP reportedly discussed collaboration of anti-human trafficking and sexual abuse of minors in online crimes that have targeted Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and the Philippines. The ongoing conflict in Myanmar has made it difficult to assist human trafficking victims there while the number of gangs there keeps growing, the meeting was told. However, Interpol can still assist victims by coordinating with international police based in Thailand and RTP, the source said. So far, Thai police and Interpol have wrapped up 12 human trafficking-related cases in Myanmar and helped 88 victims of various nationalities. Police are working on nine other cases. To better tackle human trafficking, Interpol wants to conduct an operational plan and establish a coordinating centre in Thailand, said Pol Gen Surachate, according to the source. The source said the deputy national police chief has agreed with the move. Pol Gen Surachate said illicit drug gangs are likely associated with human trafficking and illegal fisheries. To tackle it effectively, he reportedly said, requires cooperation from all sides to enforce international laws. In previous meetings with Myanmar authorities, the RTP obtained details about cases of sexual abuse against minors from the National Centre for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) and Interpol. The RTP have instructed police to intensify their search for trafficking victims and asked Interpol to supply more information through the International Child Sexual Exploitation (ICSE) database, said Pol Gen Surachate. The RTPs Thailand Internet Crimes Against Children (TICAC) taskforce will lead the operation and keep Interpol updated on the progress. Somchart moves to end teachers hitting students PHUKET: Somchart Techathavorncharoen, Move Forward MP-elect for Phuket Constituency 1, has warned that any teachers caught hitting a student faces criminal action that may incur a fine of up to B40,000, or up to two years in jail, or both. By The Phuket News Wednesday 31 May 2023, 12:24PM The post by Somchart Techathavorncharoen, Move Forward MP-elect for Phuket Constituency 1, this morning (May 31), warning teachers that hitting a students is a criminal offence. Image: Somchart Techathavorncharoen / Facebook Mr Somchart explained in his warning, issued through a post on his official Facebook page this morning (May 31), that the Ministry of Education had abolished hitting children since 2005. Any teacher who hits a child will be punished under Section 295 of the Criminal Code, he wrote. Regardless, he was still receiving complaints of teachers hitting children, Mr Somchart said. He urged parents whose children were hit by teachers to inform him directly. Section 295 legislates the charge of Bodily Injury under Chapter 2 of the Thai Criminal Code, Offence Against Body. Whoever, causes injury to the other person in body or mind is said to commit bodily harm, and shall be punished with imprisonment not exceeding two years or fined not exceeding four thousand Baht, or both, Section 295 notes. Mr Somchart added that parents and their children can also file civil suits for damages and compensation, including compensation for all medical expenses and emotional harm done. Mr Somchart explained that the Ministry of Education had issued Regulations on Punishment for Students and Students 2548 B.E. The aim of the regulations is to spell out to teachers and school administrators what punishment may be levied against a student found committing inappropriate and/or unruly behaviour that breaks rules on school conduct. The regulations note four forms of action that teachers may invoke against students. A reprimand may be issued for non-serious offences. Suspension may be invoked for more serious offences. In cases where the behaviour has tarnished the reputation and dignity of the educational institution or violates the regulations of the educational institution or the student has been punished by reprimand but still not afraid [of perpetrating the same type of behaviour], the students name is to be recorded and the parents or guardians are to be invited to record acknowledgment of the offence and the suspension of the child from the school. Teachers and school administrators may employ a demerit points system whereby a student has points deducted in accordance with offences committed. The system also serves as a written record of behaviour of the student. Students may be required to perform activities to change their behaviour. The activities performed must be in accordance with the guidelines set by the Ministry of Education, Mr Somchart noted. The third session of the National Dialogue's political track, originally planned for 4 June, has been rescheduled for 11 June, announced the General Coordinator of the National Dialogue Diaa Rashwan on Saturday evening. A 34-year-old Delhi man has been charged in connection with an afternoon break-in spree in southeast Cambridge and North Dumfries. Waterloo Regional Police Service said the break-ins occurred on May 26 and police received a call shortly after 3:30 p.m., about an in-progress break-in at a Lilywood Drive residence. Police said an unknown male allegedly attempted to enter the home through a backyard door and fled when confronted by the homeowner. Police said they also received calls that day about similar break-in attempts, with another on Lilywood Drive and an incident around 2:30 p.m., on Autumn Maple Crescent in North Dumfries. Entry was not made to any of the involved residences, police said. The man was arrested on May 30, with assistance from Norfolk Ontario Provincial Police, and has been charged with four counts of break and enter with intent to commit theft and possession of break-in tools. He was held in police custody for a bail hearing. SHARE: Social isolation can have a profound impact on a persons health and well-being, including their physical, emotional, and/or mental health. This is a growing concern among older adults. Recognizing the signs of social isolation and understanding how to help will be crucial to ensuring people feel connected, engaged and live more fulfilled lives. Trillium Church invites the community to its free wellness talk on social isolation, as part of their Community Wellness project, a year-long outreach initiative to support and advocate for older adults with health challenges who may lack family or community support, face the challenges of a fixed income, or have cultural or language barriers. On June 6, Christine Pellegrino of the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging (RIA) will present Support Your Neighbours: How to identify and support older adults experiencing social isolation. Christine will share tips and strategies from RIAs newest resource: Supporting Your Neighbours: A Community Conversation Guide. Launched on Feb. 1, 2023, Trilliums Community Wellness Project offers three services to the community: Personal care clinics subsidized foot care and haircuts; support/advocacy from Trilliums parish nurse; and free wellness talks with information on health and safety. The June 6 event is the second of four wellness talks offered free to the community in 2023. When planning new outreach at Trillium, says Ruth Thompson, project leader for Community Wellness, we identified social inclusion as a priority need. We are fortunate the RIA is available to share their expertise in this area. Trilliums Community Wellness Project is possible because of grants from the United Church of Canadas Embracing the Spirit program, and with the endorsement of United Church Western Ontario Waterways Regional Council, the Presbyteries of Toronto Conference Corp. These granting bodies support innovative projects for the renewal and redevelopment of faith communities. Several local social service organizations have supported the need for the Community Wellness project in Cambridge. Sharon Livingstone of the Cambridge Council on Aging endorsed the project, saying: Community wellness programs are evidence-based. They can reduce the wait-lists for health care, provide an option that allows older adults to age in place, and provide exercise, socialization and belonging to reduce the deficits associated with social isolation. This next wellness talk Supporting Your Neighbours will be held at Trillium Church, 450 King St. E., in Cambridge on Tuesday, June 6 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend the presentation. Trillium will offer a light lunch on a pay-as-you-can basis. Contributed by Ruth Thompson. SHARE: CAMBRIDGE The chair of Cambridges committee of adjustment should be fired after she deliberately violated the citys code of conduct for committees, the citys integrity commissioner recommended in a report to council Tuesday. Council disagreed, voting unanimously to receive the report and take no further action. Frances Seward chairs the citys committee of adjustment, which decides applications for minor land planning changes. Seward acted inappropriately on an application for a severance and minor variances for an Oak Street property that is across the street from her home, said Paula Boutis of Aird and Berlis LLP, the citys integrity commissioner; Seward discussed the issue with neighbours and did not declare a conflict of interest at the committee. The commissioner found that Seward abused her role ... by furthering her personal interests related to the proposal that was before her, which required an impartial adjudication she clearly could not provide. She acted in clear violation of these code provisions. In her view, suspension from the committee or training would not rectify the significant breach of Sewards responsibilities, Boutis said. The respondent could have offered an apology freely and she did not do so, she added. The applicant brought a proposal to sever and seek minor variances to the citys committee of adjustment in November. The matter was later moved to a December meeting. Seward and her partner live across the street from the Oak Street property, the report said. By the time of the December meeting, (Sewards) partner who resides at the same location, along with other residents, submitted comments in opposition to the proposal, the report reads. The respondent did not recuse herself nor declare pecuniary interests at either meeting. Seward presided over both the November and December meetings as chair and spoke in opposition to the proposal in December, though she didnt vote. The committee rejected the Oak Street proposal, which staff had recommended approving. The property owner on Oak Street made the integrity complaint last December, alleging violations of the citys Code of Conduct for Citizen Appointments to Local Boards and Advisory Committees and of the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act. The integrity commissioner said Seward had received conflict of interest training from the city which made it clear that members must declare conflicts and recuse themselves where necessary. As part of the inquiry, the commissioner asked Seward more specific questions about what bias training she had received. Her response was, The question is supercilious and condescending. Seward did not violate the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, only the conduct code, the commissioner said. A Tuesdays meeting, Coun. Ross Earnshaw sought confirmation that it was up to council whether or not to take any action, which the commissioner confirmed. It is open to the council to not in fact impose any remedial measures or corrective action, he said. Paige Desmond is a Waterloo Region-based reporter focusing on municipal issues for The Record. Reach her via email: pdesmond@therecord.com SHARE: WASHINGTON, D.C. A Waterloo middle school student, one of three Canadian contenders, has been eliminated from the 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee. Thirteen-year-old Eleanor Jeavons, who attends MacGregor Senior Public School, stumbled on the word virulent and was eliminated in the second round, her publicist reports. Her mom said shes holding her head high and planning her strategy for next year, said marketing communications specialist Julia Harper. To make the finals in Washington, Jeavons won the 2023 ECU Waterloo Region Scripps Regional Spelling Bee in February, where she bested fellow contestants by correctly spelling the word innovator. Her prize: a $200 educational scholarship and all-expenses-paid trip to Washington to compete against 231 same-age spelling champs. Scripps, held almost every year since 1925, is the U.S.s largest and longest-running educational promotion, and has been featured in novels, documentaries and Hollywood dramas like Akeelah and the Bee. This years competition wraps up June 1. For more information, go to spellingbee.com RELATED STORIES Waterloo Region Waterloo spelling bee champ jets off to big time SHARE: KITCHENER It was a horrific hit-and-run. Late at night on Feb. 2, 2020, pedestrian Wojciech Plaga, 40, was struck by a car. That pedestrian died, alone at the side of the road, Crown prosecutor Aaron McMaster told Kitchener court. The driver took off. At 11 a.m. the next day, garbage collection workers found Plagas body in a ditch where he was struck, on Highland Road West near Westheights Drive in Kitchener. That section of Highland Road had no sidewalks and was poorly lit. Seven months passed before a Waterloo man, Igor Ninkovic, turned himself in to police. He was charged with failing to remain at an accident causing death and obstructing justice. His charges are still before the courts, but his father, Mladen Ninkovic, was sentenced this week after pleading guilty to attempting to obstruct justice. Ninkovic, now 69, used his garage in Waterloo to conceal his sons car, court was told. And with Plagas body still in the ditch, he went to the accident scene to remove car parts that fell off in the crash. The body lay feet away from where he was removing debris, said Justice Pamela Borghesan. Theres no suggestion or evidence that he saw it there, but clearly he knew why he was there and why he was removing debris from the scene. In my view, that conduct shows a callous disregard for life, for the dignity of the deceased. Ninkovic also lied in a police interview, court was told. It is clear Mr. Ninkovic was attempting to frustrate the ability of the police to investigate a serious offence, said McMaster, the prosecutor. This is not a situation where someone had a momentary lapse of judgment. This was a protracted course of conduct over multiple days. The sentence imposed needs to clearly communicate to society that the justice system simply will not tolerate this kind of behaviour. The Crown sought a six-month conditional sentence with house arrest. Defence lawyer Anthony Moustacalis asked for a conditional discharge, which carries no criminal record. The judge said a discharge would be contrary to the public interest. One often hears a parent say they will do anything for their child and some may even help their children to the extent of engaging in criminal activity, Borghesan said. The court must send a message that there will be a significant price to pay if they travel down that dangerous pathway, and perhaps give them pause before doing so. She handed Ninkovic a suspended sentence, which carries a conviction. He got credit for being a first-time offender who pleaded guilty. Ninkovic has serious medical issues. I accept that this offence is very much out of character for him, Borghesan said. He did not benefit from the crime, she said, but did it in order to shield his son. The judge put Ninkovic on probation for two years with several terms. He must complete 40 hours of community service. His son, Igor Ninkovic, now 35, returns to court next week. Plaga, the victim, was remembered by his family as a kind, loving and warm-hearted man. Today my parents are burying their only son, his sister, Aneta Plaga, said soon after the Kitchener man died. He was a son, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be dearly missed. And he will be remembered in our hearts forever. With files from Laura Booth and Liz Monteiro SHARE: President Joe Biden is welcoming Denmark and Britain's prime ministers this week to Washington for talks that will focus heavily on what lays ahead in the war in Ukraine including providing Ukraine with American-made F-16s fighter jets. To be fair, it is a bit of a dick move to not even play one song to the crowd, who from watching the video, actually didnt look that dead. They might have even been able to score some new fans. The U.S. Navy said Monday its sailors and the United Kingdom Royal Navy came to the aid of a ship in the crucial Strait of Hormuz after Iran's Revolutionary Guard harassed it. CM appeals | IMPHAL, May 31 : Chief Minister N Biren Singh has appealed to the people of Manipur not to cause roadblocks and hindrances on free movement of security personnel and relief material in order to save lives and property of innocent civilians and to assuage the hardships faced in the relief camps. In his note of appeal, the Chief Minister said with public violating curfew restricts in various locations and setting of roadblocks, free movement of relief material for inmates of relief camps and movement of security personnel who are out to deal security threats from illegal armed groups in foothills and interior locations of the State, are greatly hindered. Such roadblocks are increasing the hardship of the already traumatized people in relief camps, including pregnant women and young children by halting movement of health personnel, medicine, food, milk and water meant for them, he said. The roadblocks also make it extremely difficult for security and police personnel to respond to attacks by armed groups on time, he added. The Chief Minister also went on to appeal to all persons concerned to return and surrender the arms and ammunition which have been snatched from police stations and battalions in both the valley and hill districts to the nearby police station, MR or IRB at the earliest. Legal action as per the Arms Act of 1959 and Rules will be taken in case any person is found to be in unauthorized and illegal possession of arms and ammunition during combing operations by security personnel or otherwise, he warned. Today Mainly sunny to start, then a few afternoon clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 81F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 53F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph. Tomorrow Sunny skies during the morning hours. Scattered showers and thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. High 81F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Today Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 76F. Winds SE at 10 to 20 mph. Tonight Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 53F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph. Tomorrow Except for a few afternoon clouds, mainly sunny. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 82F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Sonia Brown is conflicted about the future of her business. After the city denied her request to expand her Hamilton Mountain residential care facility from 10 people to 16, the higher costs are pushing her to possibly close it down. I dont know what to do, said Brown. I cant operate with 10 people. She said five of her clients, who are adults and seniors with a mental illness, autism or with developmental delays, are being subsidized, receiving about $65 per day as part of the funding model. But the costs of operating the facility have jumped, especially during the pandemic, including higher labour costs, mortgage and other living expenses, such as food and utilities, she said. I pay my staff more, said Brown. My overhead is high. Brown said a 1999 Committee of Adjustment decision for an increase in the number of residents at Main Retirement Home LTD at 12 Lotus Ave., which she has owned since 2014, received approval to increase its clients to 12. But a site plan control was a condition of the variance required before the owner could increase the number of clients. No site plan control was received, city officials say. Brown applied to the Committee of Adjustment in 2018 to increase the number of residents to 16, where the committee again denied it, including other variances. Brown appealed the decision in 2018 to the Ontario Municipal Board (now the Ontario Land Tribunal), asking to increase the number of residents to 16, and keep the number of parking spots to five rather than the required six. Brown told the tribunal the facility could accommodate a maximum of 18 residents under the building code. In a decision, tribunal member Anne Milchberg stated the tribunal confirmed the applicant was not permitted to have more than 10 residents on the subject property because they had not fulfilled the site plan approval condition in the 1999 committee of adjustment approval. Milchberg said to hold off on a decision to allow for parking and the additional number of residents until Brown could provide further evidence. But since the OMB decision, no other documentation was presented. Brown, who ran for council in the last municipal election for Ward 8, acknowledged there were some miscommunications regarding providing the tribunal with the additional documents. But she disagreed with the planning requirement that the residence needs a sixth parking spot. Under the planning policy, with every three clients, there needs to be a parking space. Brown continues to question the viability of the parking space guidelines that were established 20 or 30 years ago. Why was parking added to lodging homes, yet some are grandfathered with no parking? said Brown, who suggested that it is time the policy was updated. Change is happening quickly and we must keep up. Regardless, the reality is Brown will need to make a decision soon about the future of the facility. I dont know what to say, she said. I have thought about closing it. There have been a lot of sleepless nights. She said it would be difficult for clients at the facility if it was closed because they would lose their homes. She said it is very much a family atmosphere at the facility. Brown, who owned another residential care facility at 115 Brant St., but closed it down due to financial reasons and relocated the clients to the Lotus facility, said she has been told by staff to reapply for the rezoning. But she doesnt believe the effort will succeed. I still have not heard back from the city as yet and there is no licence. There are people willing to help these people, yet the city seems to be doing everything to close us down, said Brown. There is so much bureaucracy. The city is pushing me into a decision I dont want to make. SHARE: Theres something about an artisan-made, handcrafted piece that transcends mere object status. When something is created by a skilled maker its a window into an artists imagination, imbued with meaning because its a reflection of how they see the world and themselves in it. Here, seven Canadian artisans share what inspires them to create. Brandy Mars Vancouver-based Brandy Mars is an artist whose goal is, as she puts it, is to normalize LGBTQIA+ relationships. Her moving, arresting paintings are a response to overly-sexualized depictions of lesbian relationships in art that dont reflect how romantic love feels in her own life. Some people have even written to me to say they came out after seeing my artwork. Other women told me they came out after seeing how feminine presenting I am because it made them feel validated as a femme, says Mars. Art is about connection, a thing we all crave regardless of sexual orientation. Elycia SFA I've always used making as an outlet to express what I've been feeling or thinking about, says textile artist Elycia SFA. I'm grateful that being an artist has remained such a consistent part of my life. This OCADU grads work uses the medium of handwoven cloth to tell a story: parts of her own personal journey, but also meditations on big ideas, like the nature of memory and nostalgia. Her latest series, home life / still life, focuses on the domestic spaces a bathroom, a living room that became entire worlds for many of us during the lockdown years, exploring themes of grief and loss in the midst of a global pandemic. BlacWalnut Toronto-based Rikki Ellul comes from a family of carpenters. During the pandemic, he launched his own online business, incorporating skills taught by his father and grandfather into his broader art practice, which includes working with materials like epoxy, metal and acrylic. I make the things I make because I get to express myself fully and be true to myself, says Ellul, who has a particular flair for live-edge wooden charcuterie boards. Art is self expression in its truest form and I am grateful to be able to have the ability to show my true self within my work. Pigeon Coop Before he started making cross stitch patterns, Montreal-based Max Pigeon worked as a zookeeper, animal trainer and a primary school teacher. In a way, all of those threads have found their way into the nature-inspired cross stitch designs and kits (with options for different skill levels, even those learning a new craft) he now sells online. Being a cross stitch designer allows me to combine my passions for crafting and nature, says Pigeon. I aim to create designs that can be appreciated by stitchers of all levels and that celebrate the beauty of the natural world and all its wonders. Lilac Glass According to Lindsey Adelman and Em McDonald, glass-making in their Toronto studio is very much a team sport. Together, they create sculptural glass that is as impactful as it is delicate. Our work is playful, whimsical, and we draw inspiration from nature and the human form, Adelman and McDonald say. We seek to create work that elevates functional and decorative objects into art that is accessible for the everyday. Heidi Cho Heidi Cho is a multidisciplinary artist based in Toronto whos found acclaim in many mediums: Her illustrations have appeared in several magazines, while other work has found its way to the Gardiner Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario. Whatever shes creating including hand-painted ceramics like these Cho says her work is always a reflection of whats going on in her head at that moment. I love making things that reflect questions or ideas that I'm working through around mental health, queerness and the Korean diasporic experience, she says. Juniper & Eve Two years ago, Eva Mocek launched her own sustainable, genderless undergarment brand to solve a problem: Her friend Val, a trans woman, couldnt find underwear that fit her body. Access to sustainable basics shouldnt depend on one's gender identity, says Mocek, who hand-makes every single piece sold in her online shopwhich is organized by anatomy, not genderherself, using planet-friendly fabrics like organic cotton and wood-derived Lyocell. SHARE: Every relationship contains multitudes. There are the splashy, public declarations of love, and then there are thousands of tiny, beautiful moments savoured between partners: playing boardgames, going to the zoo with the kids, cuddling the cat. Here, in honour of Pride, we catalogue the sweetness and stories of four loved up LGBTQ relationships. Ellen and Jessica Dating someone new is always an adventure, but for Ellen and Jessica, it was more so than usual. Our relationship is a little unique in that we came out as trans to one another in pretty short order, says Ellen, a specialist veterinarian. Having someone go through a lot of similar things has been amazing in terms of supporting one another. There's nothing quite like starting out in a gay relationship, spending six months in a straight relationship before ending up in a gay one with the same person to make you ask some fundamental questions about gender and sexuality! Ellen and Jessica, an IT solutions developer, met online through a mutual friend. They spent the early years of their friendship and eventual courtship talking about anything and everything. That sort of effortless and comfortable conversation that happens so rarely was always possible with her, even when it was about whatever random thing I was hyper focusing on that month, Jessica says. Ellen loves Jessicas intelligence, warmth and wit. She's quick with a quip and she always manages to make me smile, even when I'm feeling really down. The pair have been on and off for over 10 years now, and partnered up for three-and-a-half years. Sometimes you have someone show up in your life and they just slip into a space like theyve always been there, they just stepped out for a moment and finally came back, says Jessica. They moved in together just over a year ago, with rescue kitties Jack and Jerry rounding out the clan. What I love most is the family we've built together. I love waking up next to her every morning and cuddling with her and the cats and feeling that sense of togetherness, Ellen says. We've made this place ours and I love that we get to share it. The couple spend a lot of time playing boardgames or trying out new activities. The best part of our relationship is finding something new to dive into together, says Jessica. I love how much caring she puts into everything, says Ellen. She tells me she loves me all the time, but honestly it shines through anyway in the things she says and does. Christen and Ryleigh Christen married their husband Andrew in 2007 but it never seemed quite right. I thought if I did what society taught me to do get married, buy a house and have kids I'd achieve happiness and fix whatever in the back of my head was telling me that I didn't belong, says Christen. During the pandemic, Christen and Andrew started being poly and Christen decided to embrace their budding queerness. Ryleigh was the first date they went on; it lasted six hours, the two just walking around the city, not wanting it to end. I realized very quickly my life was just going through the motions of heteronormativity that society had ingrained in me, and Ryleigh helped me break free of that, Christen says. We got to build our relationship together without a heteronormative timeline, and customize it for how it works for everyone. I came out as queer pretty quickly and transitioned my relationship with my husband to a platonic co-parenting relationship, which has really thrived. Christen plans on remaining legally married to Andrew and will have a non-legal commitment ceremony wedding with Ryleigh in April 2024. We live separately, and that is our long-term plan. I live with my platonic husband in order to co-parent our two disabled children. I'm a stay-at-home parent during the week, and spend Friday night through Sunday morning at Ryleigh's apartment, Christen says (Ryleigh works in sales). When I'm gone, my husband's girlfriend comes and stays at our place and helps take care of the kids. It works really well for us. Ryleigh is elated to have found such a good fit in Christen. I love that they were willing to be vulnerable and open enough with me to build what we have and to allow for us to bond at such a complete and spiritual level, Ryleigh says, They're one of the kindest and purest people I've ever met, and sharing in that energy makes me a better person. I am constantly in awe of them and feel honoured to be able to love them and hopefully to enrich their life half as much as they do mine. The family enjoys outings to museums and the zoo, and Christen is hopeful that their family story can make other folks feel seen. I grew up in a very open and loving household, but I had zero LGBTQ+ representation in my life. I was never taught or shown it was an option, so I learned to repress who I am to try and fit in, they say. I don't want anyone else to have to stifle who they are. Anthony and Dylon Dylon, a data analyst, was drawn to student engagement programmer Anthonys confidence, knowledge and cute butt. Anthony was into Dylons handyman skills, cooking and calming presence. The pair met via dating app when Anthony was studying in Dylons home state of Pennsylvania. Their early courtship was filled with trips to Washington and Niagara Falls. Anthony is adventurous and I knew we'd go on fun adventures together, Dylon says. Theyve been married for two years, and they celebrated their engagement with an outdoor drag dinner at a sushi restaurant in the Church/Wellesley Village. We love supporting local drag entertainers, and supporting queer businesses, Anthony says. Now, he also wants to represent for the queer Asian community and for interracial couples. It is important for us to be a presence for the community and to show ourselves celebrating queer joy! Anthony says. Dylon adds, For a long-time, queer love was something to be ashamed of. Celebrating queer love is not only freeing and liberating, but a celebration of the sacrifices made in queer liberation. They live together in the west end with their grey cat Maggie; Dylon is in charge of decor and home repair. I love that Dylon is good with his hands and knows how to do everything around the house, Anthony says. And while they like to explore and visit different neighbourhoods in the city, he adds that the best part of our relationship is when we're home late at night eating dessert and watching TV together. Theyre looking forward to many more adventures. Anthony has helped me grow as a person and be a better version of myself, Dylon says. Without him, my world wouldn't be as bright. Mia and Viv The first time I hugged her, I felt like Id come home, says Viv, who works in education. She and her partner Mia, who works in mental health care, have wildly different hobbies, but they just enjoy being around each other, eating Mias baked goods or prepping meals. Often we do separate things, but in the same space, Mia says. For example, Ill be knitting, and Viv will be playing video games. It doesnt really matter what were doing; I just like when we do stuff together. Viv and Mia met on a dating app and did long-distance for a while; theyve now been married for six years. Their wedding was especially meaningful for Viv, as her parents came. That was pretty big for me; my upbringing wasnt one that was particularly friendly to the LGBTQ+ community but my parents have consciously put in effort to learn and become stronger allies. Celebrating their love openly is super important to the couple. Internalized and externalized stigma still exists around the world, as well as in our very own backyards, says Mia. Im straight-passing, which means that Im regularly exposed to peoples unfiltered thoughts about a group that they dont realize Im a part of. For me, seeing people out and proud in their day-to-day life has helped me grow in my confidence as a queer person. The pair have worked hard to build a calming safe space in their home, complete with 17-year-old tabby, Shiloh. I love that we have actively built a space where we can put our guard down at the end of the day, Mia says. Quiet is just how they like it. Theres this weird perception of the LGBTQ+ community, even within the community, that theres always a lot of drama in our lives and relationships. I thought itd be fun for us to take part in this, to be the boring-couple representation! Briony Smith is a Toronto-based freelance contributing columnist for The Star. She writes about style and culture. Reach her via email: sextalk@thekit.ca SHARE: Ontario has charged Marineland over the care of its black bears, but the Niagara Falls, Ont., tourist attraction denies any wrongdoing. The Ministry of the Solicitor General said that Marineland was charged Tuesday with three counts of failing to comply with an order related to the care of American black bears. Brent Ross, a spokesman for the ministry, said the charges have been laid under a section of the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act that allows an inspector to issue an order to help animals that may be in distress. The facility must comply with the order or otherwise face charges. The ministry declined to provide more details. Given this matter is now before the court, it would be inappropriate for the ministry to comment further, Ross said. Marineland said it has received a summons about the care of three bear cubs born unexpectedly at the park during the pandemic due to a birth-control failure. The park said the provinces Animal Welfare Services team required that Marineland construct a 10,000-square-foot facility for the bear cubs to exact specifications separate from our bear habitat. We instead opted to release the bears to a sanctuary, Marineland said in an email. The cubs were always under regular veterinary care and were healthy. The park said it appreciates the work of Animal Welfare Services, but do not believe the parks actions justify the laying of charges under Ontarios animal welfare laws. Marineland said it looks forward to defending itself in court. The park houses an unknown number of black bears that live together in an enclosure with dens and water. Visitors can feed the bears corn pops. In February 2020, Marineland employee Maddie Black told The Canadian Press she saved three black bear babies from the enclosure, worried they would be killed by adult male bears. She fished them out of the bear den with a long pole and net. Marineland said it had 16 adult bears then, but the cubs were in no physical danger. The park, however, said it had concerns about the mother bears being able to care for the cubs. The province launched an investigation into the incident. In 2013, the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals issued an order to Marineland to build separate habitats to protect bear cubs from being mauled and devoured by adult males. Marineland said it would develop a birth control program, which the OSPCA agreed to. The park said it complied with the order by using birth control injections. In 2016, when the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals enforced animal cruelty laws, Marineland was charged with one count of failing to comply with the prescribed standards of care for about 35 American black bears, including failing to provide adequate and appropriate food and water for them. The Crown later dropped those charges, saying there was no reasonable chance for a conviction. The province took over the enforcement of animal cruelty laws in 2020 after the OSPCA abdicated that role. Since January 2020, provincial Animal Welfare Services anti-cruelty officers have been inspecting Marineland regularly, although details of the ongoing probe have not been released. In 2021, Animal Welfare Services officers found that the marine mammals at the park were in distress due to poor water quality. On May 10 that year, they issued two orders to Marineland to repair the water system in the pools that house beluga whales, dolphins, walruses, sea lions and one killer whale. Marineland appealed the order on May 18 that year, denying the animals were in distress, and noting that an unknown number of whale deaths at the park were not related to water issues. Earlier this month, a beluga whale and a bottlenose dolphin died at the park. That came following the death in March of Kiska, Canadas last remaining captive killer whale, at Marineland. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 31, 2023. SHARE: CALGARYIf you squinted, it looked like many stories that had come before it: a conservative win in a traditionally conservative province. But beneath Danielle Smiths election victory Monday night were undercurrents that suggest the political landscape in Alberta is shifting, and that voters in a province known for backing the same conservative party for decades are now divided on ideological and geographical grounds and even on some basic facts. It was a stunning comeback for Smith, a politician with years of experience who has been dogged by controversy for almost as long. Yet while her party dominated in small towns and rural areas, it lost 15 seats, including significant ground in Calgary. That territory was taken up by Rachel Notleys New Democrats, who turned all of Edmonton and a significant chunk of Calgary orange, before their momentum slammed headlong into the blue wall of right-wing support in rural areas. In the end, the UCP was elected in 49 ridings (including one member who Smith said would not join caucus), to the NDPs 38. This is the tale of two Albertas, says Duane Bratt, a political scientist at Calgarys Mount Royal University. Having two truly competitive parties is a new concept in the province, but in some ways, Albertans have bypassed regular political competition and cruised right into polarization, entrenching divisions on everything from political ideology to geography to vaccination. Both parties had faced the same prospect of forming government while having seats predominantly in either urban or rural areas. I have been saying all along that we have a major governance problem, no matter what, Bratt says. Its going to be very chaotic. The election was called for Smith shortly after 11 p.m. local time and, perhaps showing her background as a seasoned broadcaster, she took to the stage with a message for Albertans of all political stripes. She pledged to work for everyone, to build a province for all. As she implored her supporters to laud Notley as a loyal Albertan who loved the province, they applauded. Of course, this was after the crowd had spent three hours booing any mention of the rival leader or her candidates. Observers say if Smith does intend to speak to all Albertans, she will have her work cut out for her in bridging the political divide in the province amid some fears that Alberta could fully descend into American-style polarization. Shes going to have to reach out to folks who didnt vote for her, to somehow make up for some of the things she said before, and its going be tough, says political scientist Lori Williams, also of Mount Royal. In what might be a hint at Smiths approach to bipartisan co-operation, she told an Edmonton radio station Tuesday that in order to understand the capital city, a vitally important area that voted in exclusively NDP MLAs, she will be consulting a panel of unelected former UCP representatives. Danielle Smiths push to the right Smith, a self-described libertarian who hosted a popular radio show, has taken the provinces dominant conservative party further to the right than ever before, pushing back on most climate-change measures or green energy initiatives, while toying with ideas such as forcing drug users into treatment and opening up the Rocky Mountains to coal mining, raising the eyebrows of even some establishment conservatives in this province. Some of ethical failures and personal viewpoints shes expressed have also alienated many in the province, from breaking the Conflicts of Interest Act by speaking to the justice minister about a homophobic street preacher facing charges, to calling the unvaccinated the most discriminated against group shes seen in her lifetime. While the win was a big comeback for Smith, it wasnt a landslide, Williams says. Stereotypes aside, three out of four Albertans live in a city or major centre, and Smiths rural-focused government will have to meet their needs, too not least in Calgary, a city known more for cowboy hats and Stampede breakfasts, but which is the fastest growing centre in the Prairies and the third most diverse in the country. Within her own party, which has never quite seemed as united as its name would suggest, Smith will also face pressure from the right-wing members who were angered by COVID health restrictions and helped topple Jason Kenney, supporting Smith in his place. Third-party advertiser Take Back Alberta, which opposed Kenney and endorsed a small crowd of freedom-focused candidates this time around, is increasingly working to influence the UCP. Smiths critics fear that she has struck a Faustian bargain of sorts with certain fringe elements who will push her further from the mainstream or, once spurned, attempt to undermine her. One big Conservative tent in Alberta no more One of the undercurrents here is also that some traditionally conservative voters in Alberta have found the party moving away from them. I think Albertans arent used to having a two-party competitive system, because for decades we had one big party that had a very big tent, and a lot of people from a lot of different political backgrounds could fit comfortably into the Progressive Conservative tent, says Dave Cournoyer, a longtime political writer who runs a blog about Alberta politics called Daveberta. A quirk of provincial political history is that, starting in the early 1970s, Albertans voted in the same Progressive Conservative government for 44 years straight, a reign of dominance that meant the party was able to shift around on the political spectrum somewhat in response to the issues of the day or the leader in charge. The streak went undamaged until Notleys shocking New Democrat win in 2015. Thats what inspired a former federal minster named Jason Kenney to swoop into Alberta and unite the right, knitting together the old PCs with the right-wing Wildrose which had, at one time, been led by someone named Danielle Smith to forge a new party that split the political difference and ended up further to the right than the province was accustomed to. Smith, riding a wave of pandemic anger, has taken the party even further right. (As the latest race heated up, several former Progressive Conservative ministers threw their weight behind Notley.) While the province has always had a libertarian streak Alberta was the last province to create a seatbelt law, which was very unpopular Williams argues that social media and anger around COVID has further emboldened these ideas, and driven a further wedge in the province. I think there are challenging dynamics that had been there for a long time and they really bubbled to the surface and got capitalized on by political leaders. Recent polling data suggested that the ideological divide in Alberta is increasingly correlated with beliefs in vaccines and even climate change. National pollster EKOS asked 1,741 people in Alberta about their vaccination status and belief in ideas such as climate change, and found that those who were unvaccinated or subscribed to false beliefs about contentious topics were more like to support Smith. For example, almost half of the respondents who said they planned to vote UCP said the false conspiracy theory that deaths from COVID vaccines were being intentionally hidden by the government was mostly or completely true, compared to six per cent of those who intended to vote NDP. Bratt, the political scientist, is clear about the stakes about whats going on here: Polarization doesnt mean a different opinion, he says. Polarization is if I believe that climate change is really important and you dont believe climate change exists ... Thats polarization. Having two competitive political parties is arguably a boon for democracy in Alberta, but its taken some adjustment, Cournoyer says. The challenge now, he adds, is to make sure that the province doesnt descend into American-style polarization, where the system risks becoming deadlocked between two ideologically opposed camps. Politically, I think its a very challenging place for Alberta to be in, I think both parties have to tread very delicately to try to figure this out. Read more about: SHARE: CalgaryFrom their headquarters at a nondescript building at the Calgary airport, the brain trust behind Danielle Smiths election bid would watch the flights taking off and landing at YYC. The running joke over the course of the past four weeks became that if things really started to nosedive for the United Conservatives, they could always hop on the next flight and get out of Dodge. And there were moments. Smith and her UCP pulled out a win in Mondays Alberta election after a tight, hard-fought campaign, winning 49 seats to the NDPs 38, pending recounts. Her win has set the stage for more showdowns with the federal government as the libertarian leader looks to push back on environmental policies she contends would devastate her provinces economy. There were days during the roller-coaster campaign when it felt like it was all about to go off the rails. Candidates had to be disqualified, an ethics commissioner report found the partys leader broke the Conflicts of Interest Act on the day of the election debate, and clips surfaced of Smith comments that offended even some of the people campaigning for her. UCP insiders, speaking confidentially to discuss internal party deliberations, have pulled back the curtain for the Star on a campaign that would keep Smith in the role of Albertas premier but that looked for a time like it would do anything but. She likes to chat Going into the campaign, the UCP plan was to keep Smith, the former radio show host, away from reporters. Despite her years in the media and political spotlight, Smith had not impressed with public speaking over the last seven months as party leader. Her first press conference as premier was when she called the unvaccinated the most discriminated against group shed seen in her lifetime. Her campaign knew this and in the beginning of the writ period, her time with reporters was limited. Senior advisers wanted her away from the cameras, where shed be peppered with question from reporters, and so she was not holding press conferences daily, a common campaign occurrence. They also limited reporters to only one question with no followups, which flew in the face of convention in Alberta. One war-room source familiar with the media strategy was blunt: No f---ups. Another source said if it were up to Smith, shed take media questions all the time. She sees herself as one of the media still, they said. She likes to chat, she likes to give verbose answers, she likes to explore conversations. Getting Smith to stick to the message was another challenge, people in the war room said. In the mornings, there would be campaign calls with Smith and about 20 people, including some candidates considered trusted political operatives by Smith. There would be people responsible for areas like rapid response, communications, and research. After those calls, there would be another call with the tight inner circle around Smith, for sensitive discussions around things like whether to disqualify a candidate. Some sources said it could be hard getting Smith to stay on what some operatives considered a winning issue. Danielle Smith doesnt particularly love talking about the economy, said one. Its legitimately like pulling teeth. But many considered it fertile ground to fight the NDP on. For the first couple weeks, the parties grappled over health care, but advisers around her urged Smith to talk about jobs. Eventually, she appeared to go there more often, and when the NDP announced it would crank the corporate tax rate by three points, it showed a weak spot the UCP felt confident in attacking. But not before some major struggles. Week two is like a nightmare Week two is like a nightmare from beginning to end. Thats at least how one source described it. A week into the campaign, on May 8, a video from 2021 surfaced of Smith comparing vaccinated people to followers of Hitler and talking about not wearing a poppy because of politicians putting in public health restrictions. Not long after, it emerged (first narrowly then more widely) that candidate Jennifer Johnson had compared trans kids to feces in cookie dough. The news cycle went into overdrive. With CTV News Channel on and all the national broadcasts, it was like 15 times a day, said one source who watched coverage in the war room. Just to see (Smith) being vilified on national TV over and over and over again, then you look at the Twitterverse and its just over and over and over it kind of affects everybody. Not everyone would agree with the vilified characterization. But what is clear is that morale took a major hit. The campaign went into issues management mode. Smith had to apologize for her own comments and then a decision had to be made about Johnson. Caucus got involved, said two war-room sources. Some candidates, like Ric McIver, a long-time MLA, and Raj Sherman, an Edmonton candidate, did so publicly. I think a lot of candidates were stressed at that time and attributing their losing to stuff like that, said one campaign source. Another senior war-room source agreed with outside critics that the decision to kick Johnson out should she get elected, which came days after the comments surfaced, took too long. Once caucus got vocal, the campaign snapped to attention, they added. The decision came May 18, the day of the election debate between Smith and NDP Leader Rachel Notley a moment sources say turned the tides, if not of the election, at least of their morale. The campaign had been ready for opposition research to be released on their candidates, and Smith. It was no secret she had held controversial positions. But the magnitude of the comments Smith had made about Hitler and the poppy felt especially impactful to some. One Edmonton-area UCP campaigner said they felt a little bit personally offended by Smiths comments about vaccinated people being comparable to followers of Nazis. There was a little bit of disbelief that the (comments) werent sticking, said the veteran operative. Indeed, polls remained relatively stable throughout the campaign. Some showed the NDP with a slight lead, others favoured the UCP. Its unclear how much of an effect Smiths comments ended up having, but at the time, they sent a shiver through a campaign hell-bent on winning in Calgary. There was even some speculation inside the campaign at the time that those comments single-handedly lost the UCP a seat or two in the city. And the UCP did end up losing key ridings in the city barring any changes from recounts of close races, the NDP swept up 14 of the 26 ridings there after only managing three in the previous election. Smith made her apology and the campaign plowed on, but fear remained about what else could be out there in terms of controversial comments by Smith and other candidates. A war-room source said they were surprised there wasnt more opposition research released by the NDP and thought it was a missed opportunity despite the fact that some observers suggested the NDP had been too negative in its attacks. The source said they knew there were some bad remarks from their own candidates out there that were never widely publicized. Ill be perfectly honest, morale was low, very, very low, and we were kind of putting on a brave face, but like, I think people were freaking, they said of the mid-campaign anxiety. We were just sort of like, If this is just a taste of what they got, we got no hope. The leaders debate Then came time for the May 18 debate. All the sources who spoke to the Star saw it as crucial. Much preparation went into how Smith would tackle the occasion, the first time in Alberta history where only two political party leaders would go head to head in such a debate. Not only would Smith have to defend her comments about Hitler and the poppy, she would also have to address an ethics commissioner report released just hours before the debate that found shed breached the Conflicts of Interest Act in trying to assist a Calgary street preacher in his criminal proceedings. The campaign had a heads-up that the ethics report was coming, perhaps giving it more time to prepare Smith. It was accepted among some in the campaign that Smith knew she had made a mistake, but there was a feeling that the language in the report was over the top, said a source. Still, in prepping for the debate, the line was drawn up for Smith that it was a mistake she was looking to learn from. Indeed, it was a line heard by Albertans that night. Smith would also grab onto a finding in the report that couldnt substantiate a claim reported by CBC News that her office had pushed back on Crown prosecutors assessments of cases tied to the Coutts border blockade. Smith used that as an opportunity to pivot out of it as quickly as possible, said the source. It was not good. It was not positive. It was not an easy thing. But thats all that was available to us. The campaign held its breath as Smith took the stage, but she performed well, all the sources said. One insider likened the debate to a fourth-quarter comeback win in the Super Bowl. It felt like a do or die moment and that if the premier didnt perform in that debate, it was over, they said. One thing the debate helped address were questions at the outset of the campaign about whether many candidates would want Smith campaigning with them in their ridings, particularly around Calgary and on the outskirts of Edmonton where urban voters were hesitant about her. A lot of people werent that crazy about wanting her in their riding, said a war room source. After the debate, lets just say that the phone started ringing. But Aside from not losing, Smith had to present a friendly face, said one source involved with the debate preparation, and be seen as presenting a positive vision for the future. For them, this would be the first time many Albertans would come face to face with a leader they may have vaguely remembered from her past political forays, or had read negative headlines about. Its unclear how consequential the debate actually was in terms of the vote. But it had an invigorating affect on the campaign, made up not only of war-room staff, but thousands of volunteers hitting the streets to hand out literature and door-knock. More anxious moments Even after most of the results were in, key ridings were flip-flopping into the wee hours of the night, capping a campaign of anxiety with yet more anxious moments. The provinces justice minister, Tyler Shandro, appears to have lost his seat by seven votes while his next-door riding neighbour, UCP incumbent Whitney Issik, lost hers by 30. Recounts are almost a certainty. It was one for the ages, thats for sure, said one insider. A UCP campaigner who focused mostly on the ground game knocking on doors and getting people to actually go out and vote said that the air war in the war room always feels extremely consequential. The reality is, it is a large, large effort with many thousands of people across many ridings doing the actual hard work, they said. Ive done this twice and I am firmly convinced more than ever that its the local campaigns that matter the most. We had some spectacular teams. Read more about: SHARE: Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank said Monday they erected a religious school in a dismantled outpost after Israel's government lifted a ban on settlements in several evacuated areas in the northern part of the Palestinian occupied territory. The school was built Sunday in Homesh, one of four West Bank outposts evacuated as part of Israel's 2005 withdrawal from the Gaza Strip after Israel's government -- headed by Ariel Sharon -- passed a 2005 law banning Israeli settlements in the West Bank and Gaza. However, on 21 March, Israels far-right government voted to repeal the law on the Knesset floor by 31 to 18 in the 120-seat assembly. The UN Security Council has repeatedly expressed its "dismay" with plans by Israel's hard-right government to retroactively legalize settlements in occupied Palestinian lands, warning that such measures "impede peace." Anti-settlement groups say more settlement construction in those areas further dims any hopes for a contiguous, independent Palestinian state. The U.S., Israels closest ally, has also voiced concern, saying it is deeply troubled by moves to resettle the area. Video on social media showed settler leaders dedicating the religious school, a single-floor structure, with a prayer and saying they hoped to rebuild the other evacuated settlements as well. Palestinian presidential spokesman, Nabil Abu Rudeineh, said that "all Israeli settlements built on the land of the State of Palestine, including the formerly evacuated Homesh settlement iare illegal, stressing that the continuation of the aggressin will not achieve security or peace for anyone". Abu Rudeineh stressed that Israel is acting "in a defiance of the will of the international community, particularly the US administrations position regarding the unacceptable return of settlers to Homesh". Statements of condemnation and denunciation are no longer sufficient to confront the actions of the extremist right-wing (Israeli) government, said Abu Rudeineh. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it is closely monitoring all developments in this matter in coordination with the International Criminal Court, aiming to ensure that the occupying state is held accountable for these actions. Homesh has been at the center of settler efforts to deepen Israel's hold on the northern West Bank. Settlers have long maintained a presence in the outpost despite the 2005 act, setting up tents and other structures on the foundations of former homes. The military at times demolished those structures, but it largely ignored the settlers' existence at the outpost, which was built on private Palestinian land. Israel's government has made settlement building one of its top priorities. The ruling coalition, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is made up of ultranationalist settler supporters, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who also has some authority over West Bank settlements. Israeli occupation Army Radio reported the Homesh religious seminary was built with approval from Smotrich and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. In the 1970s, Israel established a network of settlements across the occupied West Bank, particularly in areas deemed strategic. The Oslo Accords of the 1990s divided the territory into Israeli- and Palestinian-administered zones meant to lay the ground for a future Palestinian state, but Israel continued to build and expand its settlements. The United Nations and most of the international community see Israeli settlements, home to 700,000 people in the West Bank and east Jerusalem, as illegal and obstacles to peace. The continued expansion of settlements comes amid a recent surge in Israeli-Palestinian violence that has led to near-daily attacks on the West Bank and East Jerusalem by the Israeli military and settlers. On Monday, Israeli settlers, from the illegal Homesh settlement, attacked the town of Burqa, northwest of Nablus, and set palm trees on fire, according to Ghassan Daghlas, a local official speaking to WAFA. Residents confronted the settlers and forced them to leave the area as they worked to put off the fire. According to Daghlas "ever since the settlers have been allowed to return to Homesh attacks on the Palestinian town have intensified and become almost daily. Earlier on Friday, a Palestinian man was shot and killed in a settlement located near Hebron, which is a frequent site of friction between Palestinian residents and Israeli settlers. On the same day, settlers attacked and injured several Palestinian farmers and torched five vehicles and cropland in the village of Al-Mughayyir near the city of Ramallah, the official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported. Since the start of the year, Israeli forces and settlers have killed no fewer than 156 Palestinians, including at least 19 children, according to a tally compiled from official sources. Search Keywords: Short link: PEMBROKE, Ont. - A 21-year-old man from Ottawa has been charged with the murders of two 16-year-old boys and the attempted murder of a third teen over the Victoria Day long weekend, provincial police said Wednesday as they investigated what they called a targeted shooting. Ontario Provincial Police said the 21-year-old man was arrested Tuesday without incident with the help of Ottawa police. He is charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder with a firearm. While we have arrested one person, the investigation is far from over. Now is the time for witnesses to come forward, Det. Insp. Jennifer Patton said during a Wednesday news conference. We cannot speculate as to whether additional charges will be laid against anyone else at this point. Police say the double homicide in Pembroke, Ont., which they have called a targeted shooting has shaken the small city about 150 kilometres northwest of Ottawa and the surrounding community. Two 16-year-old boys from Mississauga were killed and a third 16-year-old, also from Mississauga, was injured in the early morning shooting on May 22, police said. Police have identified the two victims as Noah Nathaniel Annis and Alando Omario Davidson. Officers were called to a home shortly before 3 a.m. where they found two people with life-threatening injuries, OPP said. One died in hospital and the other survived. Police said the third teen was found in the immediate area of the house. The accused made an appearance before a court in Pembroke on Wednesday and was remanded into custody, with his next date set for June 21, OPP said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 31, 2023. SHARE: CALGARY - Sentencing arguments for a young man convicted of manslaughter in the hit-and-run death of a Calgary police officer have been delayed. Sgt. Andrew Harnett died after being dragged by an SUV, then falling into the path of an oncoming car on Dec. 31, 2020. The offender, who is now 20, was days away from turning 18 when Harnett died and was driving the vehicle when it took off from a routine traffic stop with the officer holding on to the wheel and trying to get him to stop. He testified during his trial that he was scared when Harnett and another officer approached the vehicle during a traffic stop and he saw Harnett put his hand on his gun. Justice Anna Loparco has ruled that the young man should be sentenced as an adult and was scheduled to hear arguments today. But the proceeding was delayed at the request of the defence and will be back in court June 16 to set a new date for when the sentencing will go ahead. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 31, 2023. Read more about: SHARE: There is less than a month until mayoral election day, June 26, and the race still isnt settled. In the context of Toronto municipal elections, this seems late in the process, but we could also remember that four weeks is a normal time frame for an entire federal or provincial election. There is still lots of time for things to happen, in other words. As it stands today, whats clear from the polls so far is that Olivia Chow leads, with consistent support in the mid-30 per cent range of decided and leaning voters. What isnt clear is much beyond that. There are 101 other challengers, and the most popular of them so far are generally hovering in the low to mid-teens at best, no one seeming to gain significant ground as the main alternative. The number of undecided voters remains above 20 per cent in most surveys. Plenty of people are still gathering information or just starting to gather information to begin making up their minds. Thats where debates are really useful. And its why Im particularly happy to be moderating a debate Wednesday evening, entitled Our Future Our Vote: A Toronto for All. Its going to be hosted by the Toronto Star in partnership with the United Way and Toronto Metropolitan University. Tickets for the event are all spoken for (they went fast), but everyone in the city can watch it live on CP24 starting at 7 p.m., or watch a livestream online at the Toronto Star website. Its a chance to see six of the top candidates head to head, outlining their visions, reacting to each other, showing us who they are as leaders and how they think about Torontos problems. There are big differences between those candidates, but all of them agree, as most of us do, that Toronto has some big problems right now. A crisis in housing affordability, a billion-dollar budget hole, transit service reduced, traffic grinding along on the streets, overcrowded homeless shelters, fears about crime the list could go on (and often does when the candidates are talking). Whats more, this election is the first in Toronto where voters going into it know the new mayor will have unprecedented strong mayor powers to veto council decisions or even pass bylaws with a support of a minority of councillors. In preparing for the debate, organizers drew on the Stars reporting and expertise, but also consulted widely with the community of vulnerable people and service providers affiliated with the United Way, and with the TMU community of students, to identify what issues are most pressing to people struggling with life in Toronto right now, and to come up with questions to the candidates about how theyd approach them. Of course, there are a lot of candidates, too many to have on one stage if were going to give anyone a chance to explain themselves. To choose which candidates to invite, the organizers published criteria on May 1 outlining thresholds for polling at a specific deadline. Based on those thresholds, the top six candidates were invited, and all of them accepted: Ana Bailao, Brad Bradford, Olivia Chow, Mitzie Hunter, Josh Matlow and Mark Saunders. We all realize there are other credible candidates, some you may wish to hear more from. But we had to make choices, so we set and publicized rules to guide those choices, and we are sticking to them. During the debate, these candidates will field questions from me, and from members of the communities of the United Way and TMU, and will also have an opportunity to ask each other questions. It should be a chance for those watching to explain who they are, how they think and how theyd lead. Which is where I come in. Usually in my job as an opinion columnist, I offer my own commentary on how I think candidates are doing, and what I think of what theyre saying. But Wednesday night as moderator, I have a bit of different role, trying my best to ensure that each of them has a fair opportunity to explain themselves in their own words and to try to ensure we keep things coherent, and running on time. Im particularly grateful for the chance to play that role in this setting, where those attending in the audience or tuning in to the broadcast will get the chance to hear directly from many of those hoping for support. My hope is that many of us will hear something from these candidates we havent heard before, perhaps something that will lead us closer to our own choices about who should next lead the city to address its urgent problems. I dont think those are easy problems to solve, and I dont think the choice of who is best equipped to face them is easy either. Its a big decision, and were gradually running out of time to make it. I hope youll join us Wednesday night to gather a bit more information to guide your own choice. SHARE: Toronto police are investigating after a man was struck by a motorcyclist while crossing the street on Saturday. Police said they were called to the Fort York Boulevard and Lake Shore Boulevard West area just after 12:30 p.m. for reports of someone had been injured in a collision. A motorcyclist was travelling eastbound on Lake Shore Boulevard West and encountered heavy traffic in the area, said police in a news release Wednesday. At the same time, a man who was out jogging was waiting at the southeast corner of the intersection for the light change in order to cross the street. Some of the vehicles were in the intersection when the light turned red for traffic heading eastbound, according to police. The pedestrian signal changed for the jogger and he entered the intersection, where police say he was hit by the motorcyclist who was allegedly driving between two lanes of traffic. The man was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries. TG Thea Gribilas is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: tgribilas@thestar.ca SHARE: Peel police say they have rescued 13 human trafficking victims through a multi-jurisdictional human trafficking investigation dubbed Project Pacific. In a press conference at headquarters in Mississauga Wednesday morning, Peel police also announced the arrest of five people as part of the year-long investigation. Peel police also announced the seizure of over $48,000 of property and currency. Det. David Laing, with the Specialized Enforcement Bureau Vice/Human Trafficking division said the investigation started in April 2022 after Peel police received a community complaint regarding an illegal bawdy house operating out of a condominium in Mississauga. Investigators subsequently identified a criminal network operating multiple illegal bawdy houses in Mississauga. Members of this criminal network were using the vulnerabilities of the victims to coerce and manipulate them into working and living within these illegal (bawdy houses), said Laing. Police say all 13 victims are of Chinese descent and have various immigration statuses; 12 of the 13 were recruited domestically. On March 27, police executed a residential and vehicle search warrant in Mississauga and two residential search warrants in Milton in Markham resulting in the arrest of two women. None of those arrested had any other charges outside of the investigation. Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich, of the Investigative and Emergency Support Services Command added that the GTA is a major hub for human trafficking. Human trafficking is something that can happen anywhere to anyone, he said. Laing said police believe there are additional victims and witnesses. Anyone with information is asked to call crime stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by visiting peelcrimestoppers.ca or call the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010. TG Thea Gribilas is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: tgribilas@thestar.ca SHARE: A pride flag was tossed to the ground from a pole and ripped outside a church in Niagara Region in what authorities call a potentially hate-base incident, days before the start of pride month. Officers from the Niagara Regional Police 8 District said the incident happened in the town of Lincoln on May 27 outside the Trinity United Church on William Street. Video footage obtained by police shows five people entered the churchs vicinity at around 9:45 p.m. on Saturday before three of them started interacting with the flagpole. Authorities said the pride flag was found along with a Canadian flag on May 28 morning while officers responded to reports of mischief and damage. While police said further analysis of the video footage is pending, authorities confirmed the rope to the flag post was cut, and the pride flag was then damaged. The investigation is being treated as potentially a hate-based incident, Niagara regional police said. No suspect information is available at this time. Niagara police are asking anyone with information to call 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009023. SHARE: Six people, including a 15-year-old, have been charged in a child pornography investigation in Toronto. Dubbed Project Last Byte, Toronto police said the investigation started May 8 of this year, and ran until May 19, as members of the Internet Child Exploitation division began an online undercover sting. One child has also been safeguarded as a result, said police, and seven search warrants have been executed. The investigation is ongoing and police note further arrests and charges are anticipated. Toronto police have charged six people including: Mathew Jones, 41, from Toronto, with one count of possession of child pornography Pawel Sitko, 38, from Toronto with two counts each of accessing child pornography and possession of child pornography Christopher Moss, 44, from Toronto, with accessing child pornography and possession of child pornography Aneurin Owen, 48, from Toronto, with two counts each of accessing child pornography and possession of child pornography Patrick Funa, 31, from Toronto, with accessing child pornography and possession of child pornography And a 15-year-old from Toronto, who has been charged with making child pornography available, possession of child pornography and accessing child pornography. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-8500, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com. TG Thea Gribilas is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: tgribilas@thestar.ca SHARE: The Toronto Star, United Way Greater Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) hosted a mayoral candidates debate on Wednesday evening at TMU. Ana Bailao, Brad Bradford, Olivia Chow, Mitzie Hunter, Josh Matlow, and Mark Saunders discussed affordability, homelessness, strong mayor powers and more. Star reporters Alyshah Hasham, Ben Mussett and David Rider provided live updates throughout the debate, which you can see below. This event has now ended. Thanks for following our live updates. More post-debate analysis from the Star to come. 8:32 p.m. Winners and losers: Always hard to say without letting all sink in but if this was one of Chow's rivals last chances to bring her down, I don't think they did it. Lots of exchanges but she seemed to enjoy the sparring and sometimes turned the barb on her questioner. No big losers unless you count the other candidates' failure to unnerve the frontrunner according to all the polls. I would say that Ana Bailao seemed much more at ease and effective with her words than in last week's debates. The others did fine, nobody flamed out. DR 8:30 p.m. And we're done. Quick headline: Chow Under Attack! Even more than last week's debates, almost all the fire was aimed at Olivia Chow and primarily over her refusal to name an exact property tax increase for 2024. Sub-headline: Chow gave as good as she got, in some cases better. DR 8:27 p.m. We get a debate bingo card shout out in this section both literally from Bradford and figuratively from the candidates who hit on their key points in their closing remarks as they sell their experience and vision to Torontonians. AH 8:24 p.m. Doug Ford doesn't run Toronto, says Olivia Chow. The former councillor looms large over this election. His shadow has forced mayoral hopefuls to take positions on several of the interventionist premiers controversial moves, such as Ontario Place. On one side of the spectrum, Mark Saunders has presented himself as an ally of Fords, while former council colleague and long-time critic Josh Matlow has frequently attacked the premier on the campaign trail. Where do the others stand? Read more here. BM 8:20 p.m. Does the city have a revenue or spending problem? Matlow, Hunter, Chow, Bailao say revenue. Bradford, Saunders say spending. How do they get to work? Hunter: car, because she lives in Scarborough. Bailao: transit or car. Chow says bike. Bradford: bike. What do they love most about Toronto? Saunders: people. Bailao: diversity, people. Hunter: food, people, trees, water, culture. Bradford: access to opportunity. Chow: diverse, creative, nature, people, entrepreneurial. Matlow: people, ravines, water, culture, arts. AH 8:19 p.m. Quick round: Strong mayor to pass a bylaw? Chow, Matlow, Hunter and Bailao are no. Saunders and Bradford are a yes. Thanks to Doug Ford, Torontos next mayor will wield unprecedented powers, including the ability to override majority votes on council. Read more about each candidates positions on so-called stronger mayor powers here. AH 8:17 p.m. Bailao said she felt a sense of opportunity when she moved to Toronto at 15 and that same sense moved her to run for mayor. Which candidate has the experience and track record to deal with the $46-billion capital backlog. She says Saunders is a Ford puppet, Chow would tax, but she'd "roll up her sleeves" and get to work on Day One as mayor. Matlow and Chow turn to listen as the other candidates speak but typically the others don't. AH 8:15 p.m. Housing Now, which Matlow just namechecked in a knock against Bailao, is an affordable housing initiative launched in late 2018 by former mayor John Tory. But it has failed to break ground on any of the 21 sites on city-owned land. The project has been plagued by a series of challenges from site issues, TTC infrastructure, city hall debates, the pandemic and rising construction costs. BM 8:11 p.m. Next question is about affordability in Toronto. Bradford talks about housing. Chow talks about her volunteer who pays $1600 to live in basement she shares with friends. Fresh fruits and canned soup is a luxury. Saunders said he spoke to a woman who has three degrees and a fiance who is thinking about leaving the city because they can't afford it. He would cut red tape. Matlow says affordability is the most important issue in the city. He also slams Housing Now and said he'd build on city land differently. AH 8:10 p.m. We're back on property taxes with Bradford now accusing Chow of raising property taxes sky by 20 per cent, a claim Star columnist and city hall watcher Matt Elliott has described as very, very silly. BM 8:06 p.m. Bradford asks Hunter ... just kidding he asks Chow how much she'd raise property taxes. What is the maximum number? Chow says families are paying $220 more a year on transit due to the fare hikes approved in the last budget. AH 8:03 p.m. Chow asks why Bradford hasn't made housing approval processes shorter, and notes he is an urban planner. If you can't get that job done, why would you deserve a promotion? That was a zing. Bradford said in the past five months he's done tons of work including multiplex and zoning reform. Bradford said Chow opposed rooming houses when she was on council, to which she said WHAT. AH 8:02 p.m. After Saunders criticized the distribution of harm-reduction supplies (that are funded by the province), it's worth nothing the former police chief is the only candidate on stage who doesn't support drug decriminalization in Toronto. The city's current chief does back decrim. You can learn more here. BM 8:02 p.m. Saunders criticizes the harm-reduction supplies distributed by the city which FACT CHECK is funded by the province and is a well-established way to prevent infection and disease. This twitter thread contains a breakdown of the importance of harm-reduction supplies including pipes and needles. AH 8:01 p.m. Keenan on fire with the jokes. To Chow I don't think you have to ask yourself a question because everybody else is firing at her. DR 8 p.m. And a nice shoutout to the Toronto Star. Matlow asks Saunders how much he'd cut from the budget and notes Saunders told the Star he'd cut IT, which Matlow says is in charge of cybersecurity. Saunders applauds him for the soundbite. Saunders answers kind of like Chow on the tax question ironically which is, you'll see what he cuts when he's looked at the budget. Matlow asks again what will Saunders cut. You can do it, say it out loud. AH 7:57 p.m. Big laugh from crowd as Ed Keenan says Josh Matlow can ask any question, after everybody else asked Chow about taxes. DR 7:56 p.m. Chow notes that everyone else is relying on the same federal housing program. She says taxes is about providing services for each other. Hunter says Chow isn't being straight with the people of Toronto. Hunter said she's got her own fully costed plan on her website. There is no plan, there is no transparency and I think Torontonians deserve better, Hunter said. Chow lists off a bunch of questions. AH 7:55 p.m. Hunter asks Chow about her property tax hike. Chow says all her proposals are fully costed, drawing loud scoffs from the Bradford and Saunders campaign teams in the front row. DR 7:53 p.m. Saunders decides to ask the same question to Chow. What will you raise taxes by? Chow says the old way of doing things is picking a number. She says you have to build a budget around people. A property tax increase would be modest with exemptions for low-income people. But people who can afford homes with private squash courts, people who leave their homes empty in a crisis, that's who she would target with a luxury home and vacant home tax. Saunders says Chow has talked about huge tax increases (I don't know the source of this.) Saunders needs to listen more carefully, Chow says. She said modest and is considering affordability. AH 7:52 p.m. Experts have told the Star that property taxes must be part of the solution to addressing Toronto's $1.5-billion budget hole, though, as we've said before, half of the candidates on stage say they won't raise property taxes above the rate of inflation. (Reminder: Toronto has long had the lowest property tax rate among all Ontario municipalities.) BM 7:50 p.m. This is a scrappier Olivia Chow than we saw at previous debates. On both questions from Ana Bailao she effectively shot back. You might expect the frontrunner to be very cautious but Chow is in the mood to fight. DR 7:49 p.m. Bailao says she heard from a senior who says they are about to lose their home and can't afford their property taxes. What is the ceiling, Bailao demands. Chow said it will be a "modest" tax increase and this person would have access to a program that helps low-income seniors pay their taxes which Bailao well knows. Bailao says what is modest for Chow might not be modest for others. AH 7:48 p.m. Bailao is now asking Chow about property taxes. Chow, the race's frontrunner, predictably demurs. She has not yet specified a number on how much shed increase property taxes by, but has said it will not be significant and will be dependent on both budget needs and affordability. She would impose a luxury home tax and increase the vacant home tax. Bradford, Saunders and Bailao would not increase property taxes beyond the rate of inflation. Matlow would increase property taxes by an additional two per cent (around $67) and Hunter would introduce a standard six per cent increase that would be decreased for households making less than $80,000 and eliminated for many seniors. BM 7:46 p.m. For the next portion of the debate, the candidates get to pose questions to each other. Bailao starts by questioning Chow. This is no surprise, Chow is leading in the polls. Bailao said Chow has provided no clarity on property taxes, she says. How much with people on a fixed income pay? Chow says the percentage isn't the right question. Need to look at services, we don't how much money the feds and province will add on. She pivots to criticize Housing Now as Housing Never. AH 7:45 p.m. There is lots of agreement here with candidates about the importance of a home. Matlow name-checks some prominent city advocates and says city shelters are not viewed as safe and that a home so important. Chow shares that her father had mental health struggles and if she hadn't been there to help, he might have been homeless. AH 7:40 p.m. Bradford says it was put perfectly by the questioner. People need stability. He said he spoke to CAMH about this last week. There is nothing more foundational in someone's life than a home, said Bailao. She would have $5M in assistance for domestic violence victims facing homelessness (this is a big issue that prevents people from leaving abusive relationships). Saunders says mental health has not been looked after properly and would create a mayor's wellness circle. I will note the city does have a Community Safety plan and does work closely with community partners, police, schools etc. AH 7:37 p.m. The next question is from a person who has lived experience of homelessness and mental illness. What helped was stability. What will the mayor do to support people with mental illness, how will we resolve the issue of homelessness? AH 7:35 p.m. Bailao talks about creating spaces for non-profits to operate and supporting funding for shelter staffing. She will also help pre-construction funding. Saunders says he has worked with United Way but waffles a bit on how he'd support the critical work they do. Hunter notes she's sat on the United Way board and has done so for many non-profits and will be working to support them. Matlow would also provide core funding, and talks about investing in youth spaces and arts and culture sectors. He talks about opening libraries on Sundays and food banks struggling. AH 7:30 p.m. Next topic: Funding stability is an existential crisis for non-profit agencies like United Way, one of the hosts of this debate. Chow lauds the work they do in building communities and belonging. She would invest in "core funding" not project-based funding. Bradford talks about how culturally relevant programming is so important in a city as diverse as this. AH 7:27 p.m. We are getting into transit. Matlow would reverse the cuts, Chow asks people if they took transit here tonight and if they worried if they'd be late. Lots of nods. She'd also reverse the cuts and they need the province and feds to pay the bill. Bradford said transit has to be safer noting someone set off a firework on a bus last week. The transit system is in "chaos." Bailao talks about bonding with her mom while taking the subway together. Wants more staff and constables, "eyes and ears" for safety. Also would reverse cuts. Saunders says Scarborough is mostly minorities and they rely on transit as a lifeline. He has the best plan for security because he is the chief of police so I don't need to go any further on that. Hunter says she's run on Scarborough transit every election and supported the subway there (still waiting on it of course but it's in the works). She'd start the subway at 5:30 am not 6 am to help shift workers as well. AH 7:25 p.m. Matlow's now rallying against stupid transit cuts. Former mayor John Torys first strong mayor budget included a 10-cent fare hike and service cuts to the TTC proposed by city staff and approved by the TTC board. Councillors didnt vote to approve the budget under the new rules and the changes came into effect earlier this year. Matlow, Hunter, Chow and Bailao would reverse the service cuts, and Hunter and Bailao have said they would also reverse the fare hike. BM 7:22 p.m. Bailao and Bradford have a little spat over who did more for housing in the city (she is the former housing chair, he is the current one). It would be fair to say both Bailao and Bradford can take some credit for getting multiplex housing approved citywide (Matlow voted yes on this earlier this month as well). Candidates share personal stories about why they think affordable housing is so important. There is lots of agreement on speeding up process, increasing supply. Hunter chimes in again after answering the question first (this happens with six candidates, it's a lot of talking!). AH 7:20 p.m. Due to lingering costs related to COVID, Toronto finds itself with a combined budget shortfall for 2022 and 2023 of roughly $1.5 billion. Thats about one-tenth of the citys latest $16-billion operating budget. And most of the front runners havent entirely explained how theyll solve Torontos financial woes. Only two Josh Matlow and former Liberal MPP Mitzie Hunter have campaigned on raising property taxes, though Ana Bailao and Chow have insisted that Torontos finances can't be fixed through property taxes alone. You can read more about the budget dilemma here. BM 7:18 p.m. The first question is about tenants. Housing is what the polls say is the most pressing issue. You can see the candidates platforms on this issue here. 7:14 p.m. Former city councillor and NDP MP Olivia Chow talks about speaking to mothers who have lost children to gun violence. who want to build hope in their communities and come together to "heal the crack in the sky." Brad Bradford says Torontonians are tired of waiting, giving a shout out to the Eglinton Crosstown, the Gardiner and affordable housing. He will make things happen as a strong mayor of action. Former councillor Ana Bailao says cuts and taxes aren't going to fill the billion-dollar budget hole. We will need to work with the province and feds, she said, and she's the one who has the experience, track record to do it. "I won't take no for an answer." AH 7:11 p.m. Former Liberal MPP Mitzie Hunter says the number one issue is actually affordability and talks about her experience as a leader and says she has the broadest set of experience from business to community to cabinet. Midtown councillor Josh Matlow is next. He is the first as usual to invoke Doug Ford. He also talks about needing honest about taxes and getting real. He says he doesn't have the name recognition or campaign machine but has the support of Torontonians. AH 7:09 p.m. A rash of seemingly random violence across the city has put many Torontonians on edge. But what do the statistics show? What do experts suggest? And how are the candidates promising to fix crime? Star reporters Alyshah Hasham and Jennifer Pagliaro took a deep dive to give voters the proper context ahead of election day. They found that despite rising fears, Toronto remains a relatively safe city compared to other municipalities and theres been no clear spike in the most violent crimes. Read more here. BM 7:06 p.m. We begin with an opening from former police chief Mark Saunders who unsurprisingly says the number one issue he hears about is public safety, particularly on the subway. He says there have been 2000 assaults this month, most random (I don't know how he knows the motive...) AH 7:02 p.m. In the quiet moment before the debate went live, Ana Bailao jokingly threatened to sing happy birthday to moderator Ed Keenan. The candidates are lined up on stage randomly. Unlike past debates these podiums are glass and that may be why Olivia Chow isn't standing on her usual stool (short people problems). AH 7 p.m. Jordan Bitove, the publisher of the Star, thanked the candidates as well as the United Way and TMU for coming together tonight, as well as the team of reporters (hi) who are working their butts off to inform the public. And the day after the election when we have a new mayor: We will continue to hold them accountable ... that we will do everything in our power to makes sure our city continues to be one the best cities in the world," Bitove said. AH 6:55 p.m. In introductions, senior leaders at Toronto Metropolitan University stressed the importance of a respectful debate focused on listening and helping Torontonians make an informed decision. The candidates sat listening in the front row alongside moderator Ed Keenan. Student issues are being described, from food security to transit to affordability to safety. That is how we can ensure from students from around the world will choose this city for post-secondary studies. AH 6:50 p.m. The crowd is taking their seats and introductions are beginning. 6:15 p.m. The candidates are in the green room, the spectators are lined up outside the TMU auditorium and the room itself has six podiums ready to go for 7 p.m. Outside the debate stage, democracy enthusiastic university students explain the importance of the campaign issue for students, from transit to affordability. AH 11:30 a.m. Former NDP MP Olivia Chow is entering the final weeks of Torontos mayoral campaign the undisputed front-runner, according to a Forum Research poll for the Toronto Star. Chows lead remains untouchable, after seven weeks of the 12-week campaign, said Forum president Lorne Bozinoff. Other candidates have yet to connect strongly with voters. Despite her two percentage point dip from a Forum poll a week earlier, support for Chow remains nearly triple that of her nearest rivals, according to the new poll. Read the full story from the Stars David Rider 10:41 a.m. Olivia Chow remains the front-runner in three recent polls as the deadline for new mayoral candidates to sign up approaches. Voters are also starting to solidify their choice for the next mayor of Toronto with at least 76 candidates to pick from as of Monday afternoon. A Forum Research poll of 2,000 Torontonians has Chow, a former NDP MP and city councillor, well in the lead with 33 per cent of decided and leaning voters, trailed by former police chief Mark Saunders and Coun. Josh Matlow at 14 per cent each. Liberal MPP Mitzie Hunter, former city councillor Ana Bailao and Coun. Brad Bradford also hover around seven per cent. Housing affordability and cost of living continued to top the list of issues voters most care about. Read the full story from the Stars Alyshah Hasham 9:30 a.m. Leading candidates for Toronto mayor will lock horns Wednesday night in a debate that comes as the race enters a crucial phase. The three-month campaign is headed into the home stretch, and with less than four weeks to go before voting day on June 26, candidates are running out of time to make their case to voters. The stakes are really, really high for everyone on that stage, said Myer Siemiatycki, professor emeritus of politics at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). The event is being co-hosted by the Star, United Way Greater Toronto and TMU, and will focus on the critical social and economic challenges facing the city. Read the full story from the Stars Ben Spurr 8:10 a.m. There is less than a month until mayoral election day, June 26, and the race still isnt settled. In the context of Toronto municipal elections, this seems late in the process, but we could also remember that four weeks is a normal time frame for an entire federal or provincial election. There is still lots of time for things to happen, in other words. As it stands today, whats clear from the polls so far is that Olivia Chow leads, with consistent support in the mid-30 per cent range of decided and leaning voters. What isnt clear is much beyond that. There are 101 other challengers, and the most popular of them so far are generally hovering in the low to mid-teens at best, no one seeming to gain significant ground as the main alternative. The number of undecided voters remains above 20 per cent in most surveys. Plenty of people are still gathering information or just starting to gather information to begin making up their minds. Read the column from the Stars Edward Keenan 7:10 a.m. Toronto former police chief Mark Saunders is vowing to find wasteful spending to fix the citys pandemic-ravaged budget but voters must wait until after the election to know what he would cut. The former police chief told the Toronto Stars editorial board Tuesday he is convinced the city doesnt need so many people working on internet technology and he doesnt see its digital platforms talking to each other. Sometimes when were doing too many things were doing nothing, said Saunders, who has promised to keep property tax hikes below the rate of inflation despite the citys unprecedented $1.5-billion budget gap for last year and this year. Read the full story from the Stars David Rider 5:15 a.m. It was the week of debates. So, so, so many debates. And luckily there are more to come, including one on May 31 hosted by the Toronto Star and moderated by city columnist Edward Keenan, who recently attended three debates in one day. With just a month to go before election day, preparation by the city is now in high gear including the release of a sample ballot to study so as not to get overwhelmed by the 102 names. Election signs will also soon start going up, and if you have questions about why the candidates picked their colours, we have the answers. Heres what else you might have missed this week on the campaign trail. 5 a.m. From public safety to affordable housing to Ontario Place redevelopment find out what the key candidates have promised in the race to be Torontos next mayor. Our online promise tracker has up-to-date information on the policies of the leading contenders, to help you identify the candidate you want to be the next mayor of Toronto on June 26. Candidates supplied the following responses. 4:45 a.m. The Toronto mayoral election ballot looks more like a page from a phone book. But just the one page all 102 candidate names fit on the standard 8.5 by 17 inch paper with the same last name font size. Max Hartshorn, one of the 34,000 people to so far request a mail-in ballot, wryly observed: none of you are ready for this Toronto mayor ballot. Read the full story from the Stars Kelly Skjerven and Alyshah Hasham 4:30 a.m. A teen stabbed to death on a subway platform, a man attacked at random on Danforth Avenue, reports of students carrying knives to protect themselves. In post-pandemic Toronto, the world may have reopened, but some of us are more scared than ever to be part of it; random attacks have dominated headlines and a feeling of unease has settled into daily conversations between parents, neighbours and friends. Not surprisingly, talk of public safety has been a major point of debate for many of the mayoral candidates running in the upcoming byelection, with some calling for an increase in enforcement while others are urging for investments in community programs. Read the full story from the Stars By Alyshah Hasham and Jennifer Pagliaro Wednesday 4 a.m. Want to know whos leading in the race to become Torontos next mayor on June 26? Our online poll tracker will keep you up to date on how the leading candidates are appealing to Toronto voters ahead of the election. The Star has partnered with Vox Pop Labs to crunch the latest polling data from Forum Research, Mainstreet Research as well as Liaison Strategies polls for the National Ethnic Press and Media Council. Whos leading in the Toronto mayoral race? See the latest election polls Read more on the Toronto election Read more about: SHARE: Plan your trip before youre in your car: The Ministry of Transportation has scheduled 45 closures in Simcoe on May 31, 2023 for roadwork on Highway 11, Highway 12, Highway 26, Highway 400, Highway 89 and Highway 93. Highway 11 northbound between Big Chief Road and Soules Road / Telford Lane, Severn: one alternating lane closed until June 1 at 5 p.m. Highway 11 northbound between Goldstein Road and Simcoe Road 169, Severn: one alternating lane closed until June 5 at 10 a.m. Highway 11 northbound between Goldstein Road and Simcoe Road 169, Severn: one right lane closed until June 5 at 5:30 a.m. Highway 11 northbound between Highway 12 North Junction / Coldwater Road, Orillia and Sundial Drive / Carlyon Line, Severn: one alternating lane closed until June 1 at 3 p.m. Highway 11 northbound between Laclie Street, Orillia and Townline Road 12-13,: one alternating lane closed until June 3 at 8 a.m. Highway 11 northbound between Laclie Street, Orillia and Townline Road 12-13,: one right lane closed until June 1 at 3 p.m. Highway 11 northbound between Simcoe Road 93 / Penetanguishene Road, Oro Medonte and Laclie Street, Orillia: one alternating lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 11 southbound between Laclie Street, Orillia and Simcoe Road 93 / Penetanguishene Road, Oro Medonte: one alternating lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 11 southbound between Simcoe Road 169 and Goldstein Road, Severn: one alternating lane closed until June 5 at 10 a.m. Highway 11 southbound between Sundial Drive / Carlyon Line, Severn and Highway 12 North Junction / Coldwater Road, Orillia: one alternating lane closed until June 1 at 3 p.m. Highway 11 southbound between Townline Road 12-13, and Laclie Street, Orillia: one alternating lane closed until June 3 at 8 a.m. Highway 11 southbound between Townline Road 12-13, and Laclie Street, Orillia: one right lane closed until June 1 at 3 p.m. Highway 12 northbound between Atherley Road and Highway 11 / Simcoe Road 11 / Old Barrie Road, Orillia: one right lane closed until June 3 at 6 a.m. Highway 12 northbound between Highway 11 / Simcoe Road 11 / Old Barrie Road, Orillia and Harvey Settlement Road / Fairgrounds Road, Oro Medonte: one right lane closed until June 3 at 6 a.m. Highway 12 northbound between Rama Road / Creighton Street, Ramara and Atherley Rd, Orillia: one right lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 12 southbound between Atherley Rd, Orillia and Rama Road / Creighton Street, Ramara: one right lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 12 southbound between Harvey Settlement Road / Fairgrounds Road, Oro Medonte and County Road 51 / Concession Road A, Ramara: one right lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 12 southbound between Harvey Settlement Road / Fairgrounds Road, Oro Medonte and Highway 11 / Simcoe Road 11 / Old Barrie Road, Orillia: one right lane closed until June 3 at 6 a.m. Highway 12 southbound between Highway 11 / Simcoe Road 11 / Old Barrie Road and Atherley Rd, Orillia: one right lane closed until June 3 at 6 a.m. Highway 12 southbound between Highway 93 / Simcoe Road 93, Midland and County Road 51 / Concession Road A, Ramara: one right lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 12 southbound between Rama Road / Creighton Street and Durham Road 50, Ramara: one right lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 26 eastbound between Lakeview Avenue, Clearview and Carson Road, Springwater: one right lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 26 eastbound between Strongville Road and Simcoe Road 22 / Horseshoe Valley Road West, Springwater: one right lane closed until June 1 at 3 p.m. Highway 26 westbound between Carson Road, Springwater and Lakeview Avenue, Clearview: one right lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 26 westbound between Strongville Road and Simcoe Road 22 / Horseshoe Valley Road West, Springwater: one right lane closed until June 1 at 3 p.m. Highway 400 northbound between Canal Road, Bradford and Mapleview Drive, Barrie: one alternating lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 400 northbound between Dunlop Street / Simcoe Road 90 and Dunlop Street / Simcoe Road 90, Barrie: one right lane closed until June 2 at 5 a.m. Highway 400 northbound between Dunlop Street / Simcoe Road 90 and Highway 26 / Bayfield Street, Barrie: two alternating lanes closed until June 3 at 6 a.m. Highway 400 northbound between Dunlop Street / Simcoe Road 90 and Highway 26 / Bayfield Street, Barrie: two alternating lanes closed until June 3 at 6 a.m. Highway 400 northbound between Highway 11 Jct, Springwater and Severn River Bridge, Tay: one alternating lane closed until June 2 at 7 a.m. Highway 400 northbound between Mapleview Drive, Barrie and Highway 11 Jct, Springwater: one alternating lane closed until June 3 at 6 a.m. Highway 400 southbound between Canal Road, Bradford and Maple Leaf Drive, Toronto: one right lane closed until June 2 at 5 a.m. Highway 400 southbound between Dunlop Street / Simcoe Road 90 and Dunlop Street / Simcoe Road 90, Barrie: one right lane closed until June 2 at 5 a.m. Highway 400 southbound between Highway 11 Jct, Springwater and Mapleview Drive, Barrie: one alternating lane closed until June 3 at 6 a.m. Highway 400 southbound between Highway 26 / Bayfield Street and Dunlop Street / Simcoe Road 90, Barrie: two alternating lanes closed until June 3 at 5 a.m. Highway 400 southbound between Highway 26 / Bayfield Street and Dunlop Street / Simcoe Road 90, Barrie: two alternating lanes closed until June 3 at 5 a.m. Highway 400 southbound between Highway 89 / Simcoe Road 89 and Highway 89 / Simcoe Road 89, Innisfil: two right lanes closed until June 3 at 5 a.m. Highway 400 southbound between Innisfil Beach Road - Simcoe Road 21 and Innisfil Beach Road - Simcoe Road 21, Innisfil: one right lane closed from May 31 at 8 p.m. until June 3 at 9 a.m. Highway 400 southbound between Mapleview Drive, Barrie and Canal Road, Bradford: one alternating lane closed until June 3 at 5 a.m. Highway 400 southbound between Severn River Bridge, Tay and Highway 11 Jct, Springwater: one alternating lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 400 southbound on-ramp at Innisfil Beach Road - Simcoe Road 21, Innisfil: all lanes closed until June 2 at 5 a.m. Highway 89 eastbound between Mono-adjala Townline Road and Highway 400, Essa: one right lane closed until June 3 at 6 a.m. Highway 89 westbound between Highway 400 and Mono-adjala Townline Road, Essa: one right lane closed until June 3 at 6 a.m. Highway 93 northbound between Highway 400, Springwater and Highway 12 / Angela Schmidt Foster Road, Tay: one right lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Highway 93 southbound between Highway 12 / Angela Schmidt Foster Road, Tay and Highway 400, Springwater: one right lane closed until June 3 at 7 a.m. Have further to travel? Highway closures for planned roadwork outside Simcoe About this story This story was automatically generated using open data from Ontario 511. These closures are scheduled for short-term or emergency repairs and maintenance of provincial highways around Barrie, Innisfil, Bradford and Orillia. The disruptions may be intermittent or ongoing and can change due to weather, emergencies and other factors. SHARE: Israelis started reviving a flashpoint outpost settlement in the occupied West Bank on Monday, AFP journalists said, constructing a building at the site which has drawn international attention. Using a truck, diggers and an earth roller, work got underway to erect a portable building at the northern West Bank site. AFP journalists saw Israeli soldiers guarding around 20 people carrying out construction work at the Homesh site, which Israel evacuated nearly two decades ago. The latest development comes weeks after the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged his government had no plans to reconstruct the site, after a parliamentary vote on the matter sparked ire abroad. It was hailed as a "moving historic moment" by Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir -- an extreme-right settler. Lawmakers in March voted to annul part of a law which banned Israelis from living in areas of the West Bank which the state evacuated in 2005, the same year Israel withdrew from the Gaza Strip. "The government has no intention of establishing new communities in these areas," Netanyahu's office said in March. Israel's military occupation of the West Bank has been in force since the 1967 Six-Day War. Neither the army nor the defence ministry commented on their role in Monday's developments at Homesh when contacted by AFP. The civilians at the site refused to discuss the matter when approached by AFP journalists. The United States, Israel's top ally, said this month it was "deeply troubled by the Israeli government's order that allows its citizens to establish a permanent presence in the Homesh outpost". Washington and the wider international community view Israeli settlements built in the Palestinian territories as illegal and a barrier to peace. The European Union last week pressed Israel to "cease the policy of settlement expansion" and condemned increased settler violence against Palestinians. Search Keywords: Short link: Good morning. This is the Wednesday, May 31 edition of First Up, the Stars daily morning digest. Sign up to get it earlier each day, in your inbox. Heres the latest on Danielle Smiths win, Pride in the Catholic school system, and game-changing technology for disabled children. DONT MISS: Inside the Danielle Smith win in Alberta that almost slipped away Danielle Smiths campaign trail was ridden with moments of anxiety. Candidates had to be disqualified, offensive comments (even to some people campaigning for her) resurfaced and an ethics commissioner report found she broke the Conflicts of Interest Act on the day of the election debate. How did the United Conservatives bounce back? It started with a plan to keep Smith away from reporters and closed with a successful debate, according to insiders. Kieran Leavitt reports on the tense moments, the wins and the lost opportunities that insiders say brought the UCP to a close victory. Context: The newly re-elected premier set the stage for more confrontations with the federal government, pushing back against environmental policies she says would devastate Albertas economy. Susan Delacourts take: Heres why Smith couldnt afford to campaign from the hard right and why its a warning for Canadas other politicians. More: Just how divided is Smiths Alberta? Get ready for a very chaotic ride. Outrage swells over the York Catholic boards rejection of the Pride flag To Dina Mayr, a teacher and mother of a trans child, the York Catholic school boards decision not to fly the Pride flag outside its main office in June is part of a worldwide movement of hatred that has just infiltrated school boards, including our own. Education Minister Stephen Lecce said he is disappointed with the boards decision, but stopped short of forcing them to reverse it. Kristin Rushowy, Dhriti Gupta and Isabel Teotonio report on the ongoing debate within the school board and the outrage from students, staff and parents. Word from Queens Park: Every child in a publicly funded school should be supported, should feel affirmed and should feel safe, Lecce said. Word from the NDP: Suicide is the lead cause of death for young people and that number is multiplied many times for the 2SLGBT community and there continues to be a number of concerning hate-related incidents and yet this government remains silent, said New Democrat MPP Kristyn Wong-Tam. More: Although some are calling on the province to order the board to fly the flag, Catholic schools are guaranteed control over non-denominational issues under the Constitution. These kids are making computers work with their minds Children who depend on their parents, family and caregivers to speak or act for them are gaining a new opportunity to foster a greater sense of autonomy. At Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, dozens of children and teens are using brain computer interface (BCI) technology to interact with their environment including playing a favourite song, painting with a robotic ball or racing a remote-controlled car around a small track, Megan Ogilvie writes. Researchers are hopeful the non-invasive system will help children with severe neuromotor disabilities learn, communicate and play. Heres why the future is completely wide open. More: Children with cerebral palsy, brain injuries and neurodegenerative conditions have used the technology developed at the Bloorview Research Institutes PRISM Lab. The program has also recently started offering it to kids with autism spectrum disorder and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Word from a parent: One parent said participating in the BCI program confirmed that his son understands the world around him and has allowed him to engage with it in ways they didnt think possible when he was younger. WHAT ELSE: Pierre Poilievre is daring Jagmeet Singh to force an election over foreign interference. The Liberals are defending their green policies after Danielle Smith slammed Justin Trudeau in her victory speech. Doug Fords idea of lowering auto insurance rates means you pay your own repair bill. Your clothes are harming the planet. Heres how a new washing machine could stop it. Mississauga is set to vote on Bonnie Crombies motion to support changing the lyrics to O Canada to this version. The Toronto Star is co-hosting a mayoral debate. Follow here for live updates during the event starting at 6:30 p.m. Canadas news publishers say a ban by Google and Facebook would devastate them. Heres why business would be over. Restaurant and bar owners are being left high and dry. These are the delays theyre facing with CafeTO approvals. Carleton researchers invented a rapid saliva test for early detection of Alzheimers and Parkinsons. Heres what we know. Air Canada pilots have opened the gate to early contract talks should travellers expect a strike? A teacher who wore blackface to class has pleaded guilty to professional misconduct. The Jays have to get rid of Anthony Bass. How many strikes does it take? POV: Why cant you find an apartment in Toronto? The city added 15,000 units in 2022 but Airbnb now lists 16,000. CLOSE-UP: TANTALLON, N.S.: A helicopter drops water on the Tantallon wildfire, west of Halifax, in this May 29 aerial image courtesy of the Nova Scotia government. More than 16,000 people were forced to evacuate their homes, officials said Monday. Heres a closer look at how lives have been interrupted by the fire. Thank you for reading First Up. You can reach me and the First Up team at firstup@thestar.ca Sign up here to get this newsletter in your inbox. SHARE: LONDONScientists and tech industry leaders, including high-level executives at Microsoft and Google, issued a new warning Tuesday about the perils that artificial intelligence poses to humankind. Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, the statement said. Sam Altman, CEO of ChatGPT maker OpenAI, and Geoffrey Hinton, a computer scientist known as the godfather of artificial intelligence, were among the hundreds of leading figures who signed the statement, which was posted on the Center for AI Safetys website. Worries about artificial intelligence systems outsmarting humans and running wild have intensified with the rise of a new generation of highly capable AI chatbots such as ChatGPT. It has sent countries around the world scrambling to come up with regulations for the developing technology, with the European Union blazing the trail with its AI Act expected to be approved later this year. The latest warning was intentionally succinct just a single sentence to encompass a broad coalition of scientists who might not agree on the most likely risks or the best solutions to prevent them, said Dan Hendrycks, executive director of the San Francisco-based non-profit Center for AI Safety, which organized the move. Theres a variety of people from all top universities in various different fields who are concerned by this and think that this is a global priority, Hendrycks said. So we had to get people to sort of come out of the closet, so to speak, on this issue because many were sort of silently speaking among each other. More than 1,000 researchers and technologists, including Elon Musk, had signed a much longer letter earlier this year calling for a six-month pause on AI development, saying it poses profound risks to society and humanity. That letter was a response to OpenAIs release of a new AI model, GPT-4, but leaders at OpenAI, its partner Microsoft and rival Google didnt sign on and rejected the call for a voluntary industry pause. By contrast, the latest statement was endorsed by Microsofts chief technology and science officers, as well as Demis Hassabis, CEO of Googles AI research lab DeepMind, and two Google executives who lead its AI policy efforts. The statement doesnt propose specific remedies but some, including Altman, have proposed an international regulator along the lines of the U.N. nuclear agency. Some critics have complained that dire warnings about existential risks voiced by makers of AI have contributed to hyping up the capabilities of their products and distracting from calls for more immediate regulations to rein in their real-world problems. Hendrycks said theres no reason why society cant manage the urgent, ongoing harms of products that generate new text or images, while also starting to address the potential catastrophes around the corner. He compared it to nuclear scientists in the 1930s warning people to be careful even though we havent quite developed the bomb yet. Nobody is saying that GPT-4 or ChatGPT today is causing these sorts of concerns, Hendrycks said. Were trying to address these risks before they happen rather than try and address catastrophes after the fact. The letter also was signed by experts in nuclear science, pandemics and climate change. Among the signatories is the writer Bill McKibben, who sounded the alarm on global warming in his 1989 book The End of Nature and warned about AI and companion technologies two decades ago in another book. Given our failure to heed the early warnings about climate change 35 years ago, it feels to me as if it would be smart to actually think this one through before its all a done deal, he said by email Tuesday. An academic who helped push for the letter said he used to be mocked for his concerns about AI existential risk, even as rapid advancements in machine-learning research over the past decade have exceeded many peoples expectations. David Krueger, an assistant computer science professor at the University of Cambridge, said some of the hesitation in speaking out is that scientists dont want to be seen as suggesting AI consciousness or AI doing something magic, but he said AI systems dont need to be self-aware or setting their own goals to pose a threat to humanity. Im not wedded to some particular kind of risk. I think theres a lot of different ways for things to go badly, Krueger said. But I think the one that is historically the most controversial is risk of extinction, specifically by AI systems that get out of control. Read more about: SHARE: SEOUL, South Korea (AP) Former U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Wednesday that he was communicating with authorities in military-run Myanmar as well as members of the armed resistance following a surprise visit to the country last month, and called for more diplomatic pressure on the ruling generals to end the violence. Ban did not specify the nature of those communications and declined to disclose the details of his conversations with military leaders during their April meetings. He was speaking at a Seoul news conference along with other members of The Elders, a group of senior statesmen engaging in peacemaking and human rights initiatives around the world. I am in close contact with all those people to do as much as we can do to help them democratize Myanmar, Ban said. He said he was still communicating with Myanmar authorities, the president of Indonesia who holds the rotating chair of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations and Myanmars National Unity Government, which is leading an underground civilian administration following the military takeover in 2021 that toppled the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. In his meetings with Myanmars military ruler, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, and other top officials, Ban urged them to take the initiative in resolving the countrys violent political crisis and release political detainees. He also called for the military leaders to implement a peace plan proposed by ASEAN, of which Myanmar is a member, and a separate United Nations resolution to stop the violence between the military and pro-democracy resistance forces. Bans visit came at the invitation of Myanmars military government. He has remained tight-lipped about what the military leaders said to him during the meetings. The military government has consistently rejected outside calls for negotiations as an infringement on Myanmars sovereignty, and labeled the pro-democracy opposition as terrorists. At the news conference, Ban said he told the military leaders in April that he could never accept their attempts to avoid the argument, but didnt elaborate on their conversations. Some experts expressed skepticism about Bans initiative, citing the lack of progress in previous peacemaking attempts. Nay Phone Latt, spokesperson of the National Unity Government, told The Associated Press following Bans visit that international leaders should know their hands will be stained with blood when they shake hands with the leader of the terrorist army, referring to Bans meeting with Min Aung Hlaing. Ban noted that the military leaders following his meetings released around 2,000 political prisoners, although they didnt include Suu Kyi, who has been imprisoned since 2021. When asked whether he would pursue further visits to Myanmar on behalf of The Elders, including possible meetings or contacts with the opposition NUG, Ban replied: Whatever is necessary. As the U.N. secretary-general, Ban went to Myanmar to press the countrys then-ruling generals to let foreign aid and experts reach survivors of Cyclone Nargis in 2008, which killed an estimated 134,000 people. He urged the military to embrace democracy as well. He also attended a peace conference in Naypyitaw, Myanmars capital, in 2016 that sought to end decades of armed conflict with ethnic minority groups. The news conference came hours after a failed North Korean attempt to launch a military satellite into orbit triggered evacuation warnings and security jitters in South Korea and Japan. Ban and other members of The Elders the groups chair and former Irish President Mary Robinson, former Mongolian President Elbegdorj Tsakhia and former Columbian President Juan Manuel Santos criticized the launch, which Santos described as an unnecessary provocation. SHARE: MIR ALI, Pakistan (AP) Gunmen killed one soldier and wounded another Wednesday when they opened fire on security forces escorting a team of polio workers during a door-to-door inoculation campaign in a former Pakistani Taliban stronghold near the Afghan border, police said. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack in North Waziristan, a district in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. It came days after the government launched the latest polio eradication campaign, said Aslam Riaz, a police officer in the region. He said the polio workers escaped unharmed and the attackers fled the scene. In 2021, Pakistan was close to eradicating the disease, which can cause severe paralysis in children. But later, cases spiked in the country. Islamic militants often target polio teams and police assigned to protect them, falsely claiming the vaccination campaigns are a Western conspiracy to sterilize children. Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only countries in the world where polio remains endemic. Read more about: SHARE: BERLIN (AP) The German government said Wednesday that it has told Russia to close four out of five consulates in Germany in a tit-for-tat move after Moscow set a limit for the number of staff at the German embassy and related bodies in Russia. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Christofer Burger told reporters in Berlin that the measure is intended to create a parity of personnel and structures between the two countries. The Russian government recently said that an upper limit of 350 German government officials, including those working in cultural bodies and schools, can remain in Russia. Burger said this means Germany will have to shut its consulates in Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk and Kaliningrad by November. Only the embassy in Moscow and the consulate in St. Petersburg will remain open, he said. He said Russia will be allowed to continue operating the embassy in Berlin and one further consulate after the end of the year. The move reflects a new low in relations between Moscow and Berlin since Russias attack on Ukraine in February 2022. Burger said the move was regrettable, but added that the war meant there was simply no basis for numerous bilateral activities between the two countries anymore. But it is the behavior of the Russian side that has brought us into this situation, he said. Burger said Germanys decision to concentrate its remaining staff in the embassy and a key consulate will preserve the diplomatic presence in Russia. Read more about: SHARE: VIENNA (AP) Iran has resolved two outstanding inquiries from the International Atomic Energy Agency over highly enriched uranium particles and a site where man-made uranium was found, according to a report seen Wednesday by The Associated Press. The IAEA report eases pressure slightly on Tehran, which has been escalating its program for years since the U.S. unilaterally withdrew from its nuclear deal with world powers in 2018. However, it continues to amass more uranium nearer than ever to weapons-grade level, worrying nonproliferation experts. The confidential quarterly report by the Vienna-based IAEA said inspectors no longer had questions on uranium particles found to be enriched to 83.7% at its underground Fordo facility. That had sparked tensions over the last several months as uranium enriched to 90% is weapons-grade material. Iran had argued those particles were a byproduct of its current enrichment as particles can reach higher enrichment levels in fluctuations. The agency informed Iran that, following its evaluation of the data, the agency had assessed that the information provided was not inconsistent with Irans explanation ... and that the agency had no further questions on this matter at this stage, the report said. The report said investigators also have closed off their investigation of traces of man-made uranium found at Marivan, near the city of Abadeh, some 525 kilometers (325 miles) southeast of Tehran. Analysts had repeatedly linked Marivan to Irans secret military nuclear program and accused Iran of conducting high-explosives tests there in the early 2000s. The IAEA report seen Wednesday also referenced that Iran conducted explosive experiments with protective shielding in preparation for the use of neutron detectors and nuclear material at the site. The report said that another member state operated a mine at the area in the 1960s and 1970s under the rule of then-Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. It wasnt immediately clear which nation was involved in the mining. Iran had argued the uranium traces could have come from laboratory instruments and equipment used by miners at the site. The IAEA called the answer a possible explanation. The agency at this time has no additional questions on the depleted uranium particles detected at Marivan ... and the matter is no longer outstanding at this stage, it said. The agency also installed enrichment monitoring devices at Fordo and Natanz, Irans other main enrichment site, the report said. Iran on Tuesday had said international inspectors closed off the two lines of inquiry over its nuclear program. Separately, the IAEA acknowledged installing new cameras at a workshops in the Iranian city of Isfahan where centrifuge rotors and bellows are manufactured. Centrifuges rapidly spin uranium gas, enriching it. However, Iran has been withholding surveillance footage from the IAEA amid its tensions with the West. The report comes as tensions between Iran and the West have escalated over its nuclear program. Tehran also has faced mass protests recently and anger from the West over it arming Russia with bomb-carrying drones now targeting Ukraine. Irans 2015 nuclear deal limited Tehrans uranium stockpile to 300 kilograms (661 pounds) and enrichment to 3.67% enough to fuel a nuclear power plant. The U.S. unilateral withdrawal from the accord in 2018 set in motion a series of attacks and escalations by Tehran over its program. Iran has been producing uranium enriched to 60% purity a level for which nonproliferation experts already say Tehran has no civilian use. Iran maintains, however, that its program is for peaceful purposes. The IAEA, the West and other countries say Iran had a secret military nuclear program it abandoned in 2003. The IAEA report also estimated that as of May 13, Irans total enriched uranium stockpile was at 4,744.5 kilograms (10,460 pounds). Of that, 114.1 kilograms (251 pounds) is enriched up to 60% purity, a short, technical step to weapons-grade levels. The last IAEA estimate in February put Irans uranium stockpile at some 3,760 kilograms (8,289 pounds). Of that, 87.5 kilograms (192 pounds) was enriched up to 60% purity. While the IAEAs director-general has warned that Iran now has enough uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturize it to put it on a missile. The U.S. intelligence community has maintained its assessment that Iran isnt pursuing an atomic bomb. In a statement, the U.S. State Department said it had full confidence in the IAEA and that President Joe Biden was absolutely committed to never allowing Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon. We appreciate the IAEAs extensive efforts to engage Iran on longstanding questions related to Irans safeguards obligations, the State Department said. We have made clear that Iran must fully uphold its safeguards obligations. ___ Associated Press writers Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Matthew Lee in Oslo, Norway, contributed to this report. SHARE: THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) U.N. appeals judges on Wednesday significantly expanded the convictions of two allies of late Serbian President Slobodan Milosevic, holding them responsible for involvement in crimes across Bosnia and in one town in Croatia as members of a joint criminal plan to drive out non-Serbs from the areas during the Balkan wars. The appeals chamber at the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals overturned their acquittals of involvement in the criminal plan and raised the sentences of Jovica Stanisic and Franko Simatovic from 12 to 15 years. Presiding Judge Graciela Gatti Santana said the two men, both now in their 70s, shared the intent to further the common criminal purpose to forcibly and permanently remove the majority of non-Serbs from large areas of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina through the commission of the crimes charged in the indictment. The appeals ruling brings to an end the longest-running war crimes prosecution dating back to the Balkan wars of the early 1990s. Milosevic was put on trial for his alleged involvement in fomenting the bloody conflicts that erupted as Yugoslavia crumbled but he died in his cell in 2006 before verdicts could be reached. The mechanisms chief prosecutor, Serge Brammertz, hailed what he called a really important ruling. This is the only decision we have with officials from Belgrade convicted as part of the joint criminal enterprise, he said. Stanisic was in court for the hearing, while Simatovic watched by video link from a U.N. detention unit. Gatti Santana called the appeals ruling a milestone for the court which deals with cases left over from the now-defunct U.N. war crimes courts for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda as it was the final case dealing with war crimes from the wars that erupted in the early 1990s as Yugoslavia crumbled. Stanisic and Simatovic were convicted two years ago of aiding and abetting murder and other crimes committed by Serb paramilitaries in 1992 in the Bosnian town of Bosanski Samac but acquitted of responsibility for other crimes. The appeals chamber reversed both those findings and raised their sentences. The length of the case underscores the complexity of successfully proving war crimes in international courts, amid international calls for perpetrators of atrocities during the current war in Ukraine to be brought to justice. Stanisic, a former head of Serbias State Security Service, and Simatovic, a senior intelligence operative with the service, are the only Serbian officials to have been convicted by a U.N. court of involvement in crimes in Bosnia. Stanisic and Simatovic initially were acquitted a decade ago by the U.N.s Yugoslav war crimes tribunal but an appeals chamber later ordered a retrial. Brammertz said that war crimes trials would continue in the Balkans as many victims and survivors still await justice. For us, it was the last case, Brammertz told reporters. But we know there are hundreds of cases which still need to be prosecuted domestically. Munir Tahirovic, leader of an association of victims of war and genocide in Northern Bosnia, said that he had been waiting 30 years for a verdict linking Belgrade to crimes in his country. This judgment also proved that Serbia committed aggression not only on Bosnia and Hercegovina, but also Croatia, he said. Rights group Amnesty Internationals Europe Researcher, Jelena Sesar, said the ruling leaves no doubt about the involvement of Serbias police and security services in the wartime atrocities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is something that Serbias authorities continue to deny to this day. SHARE: JERUSALEM (AP) Israels intelligence agency said Wednesday that a retired agent was among four people killed in northern Italy when a sudden storm sank a houseboat hired for a weekend pleasure cruise on a lake. The former agent was on the vessel with 22 other people on a lake near the town of Lisanza. Two Italian intelligence agents and a Russian woman part of the two-person crew also died. The Israeli prime ministers office issued a statement on behalf of the Mossad saying the unnamed agents remains had been returned to Israel for burial. The Foreign Ministry had previously confirmed that a retiree from the Israeli security forces was killed but didnt provide a name or age or give details on his professional background. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office said that because of the agents work in the agency, further details could not be disclosed and extended condolences to his family. Italian police released no information on the identities or professions of the 19 survivors, but local news reports said they included other members of the Italian and Israeli intelligence services, suggesting the outing may have been part of a work meeting. Without providing sources, Italian dailies Repubblica, Corriere della Sera and Il Messaggero said the survivors were spirited out of the hospital and the Israelis out of Italy via a private plane back to Tel Aviv. The captain, identified by Italian media as Carlo Carminati, survived the mishap and was questioned by prosecutors. Media reports also said the boat, which capsized before sinking, only had a capacity of 15 passengers and two crew members, but was carrying 23 passengers at the time. Read more about: SHARE: PITTSFIELD, Mass. (AP) A student who said he got goosebumps the first time he played the violin in an orchestra is this years recipient of a college scholarship given in honor of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl, who was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan in January 2002 while investigating a story on terrorism. Geivens Dextra, who is scheduled to graduate from Pittsfield High School on Sunday, will use the $2,000 Daniel Pearl Berkshire Scholarship to study music at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The scholarship has been awarded annually since 2003 to a high school student from the Berkshire Hills region of western Massachusetts who plans to major in journalism or music, Pearls passions. Pearls journalism career began in the region. Its really an honor to receive this scholarship for music, a subject that meant so much to Daniel Pearl, Dextra said Wednesday. Dextras first formal introduction to music came in the second grade when his mother put him in the after-school music program, Kids 4 Harmony, he wrote in his scholarship essay. Inspired by a cousin already in the program, he took up the violin and eventually got to play with Bard Colleges Longys Sistema Side-By-Side Symphony Orchestra. I can vividly remember getting goosebumps when playing alongside the brass and winds for the first time, and instantly falling in love with orchestral music, he wrote. In high school, he performed in the school orchestra and the musical theater pit orchestra. He volunteered as a mentor and worked as a teaching assistant for Kids 4 Harmony, and played in several orchestras and summer programs, including the Boston University Tanglewood Institute. He also composed a piece of music for Hear Me, a documentary about gun violence and drug abuse in Berkshire County. Doing this project has opened my eyes to how music can be used to spread awareness in my community and in the spirit of Daniel Pearl, I am eager to take on more opportunities that can make a change in society through music, he wrote. Pearl, south Asia bureau chief for The Wall Street Journal, was kidnapped and killed in Pakistan in January 2002 while investigating links between Pakistani militant groups and Richard C. Reid, known as the shoe bomber. Reid had attempted to blow up a flight from Paris to Miami with explosives hidden in his shoes, a flight that was diverted to Boston. Pearl began his journalism career at the North Adams Transcript and The Berkshire Eagle in Pittsfield. The scholarship is funded by contributions from the newspapers as well as Pearls friends and former colleagues. SHARE: Fighting flared again in Sudan on Tuesday despite the latest ceasefire pledges of the two warring generals, meant to allow desperately needed aid to reach besieged civilians. US and Saudi mediators announced late Monday that the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had agreed to extend by five days the humanitarian truce they frequently violated over the past week. Since the extension announcement, residents reported "clashes with various kinds of weapons in southern Khartoum", and fighting in Nyala, South Darfur's state capital. "There is no ceasefire in Sudan," analyst Rashid Abdi, a fellow with the Rift Valley Institute, said on Tuesday. Writing on Twitter, he pointed to "a deep disconnect between the reality on the ground in Sudan and diplomacy in Jeddah", where the mediators had brokered the truce between army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. The mediators admitted the truce had been "imperfectly observed" but said the extension "will permit further humanitarian efforts." The war has killed more than 1,800 people, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. More than a million have been internally displaced and nearly 350,000 have escaped to other countries, the UN said. Residents have been hiding from street combat and roaming looters in the capital city of more than five million, nearly 700,000 of whom have fled, according to the United Nations. Since battles began on April 15, both generals have committed to a series of truces, though the United States and Saudi Arabia said this seven-page deal is different because the warring parties signed it, and there is a monitoring mechanism. Although some Sudanese have used relative lulls in the fighting to escape, aid has only trickled in. The United Nations warned on Monday that Sudan has become one of the highest alert areas for food insecurity, requiring "urgent" international action. Malnourished Children Sudan was already poverty-stricken before the war, with a third of its 45 million people relying on aid. More than six weeks of war have made things much worse. More than half the population, 25 million people, are now in need of aid and protection, the UN says. Among them are 13.6 million children, including 620,000 suffering from severe acute malnutrition, "half of whom may die if not helped in time", the UN children's agency said. Sudan's already crippled economy has collapsed since the war broke out, with businesses shuttered, agri-food factories burned and warehouses looted. Employees of Haggar Group, one of the largest investors in the Sudanese economy and main actors in the agriculture sector, received a notice Monday that the company was "suspending operations" and letting employees go. Entire districts of Khartoum no longer have running water, electricity is only available for a few hours a week, and three quarters of hospitals in combat zones are out of service. What few health facilities still operate have practically run out of medicines and equipment and have to purchase fuel at up to 20 times its pre-war price to keep generators running. But with staff and transport blocked by fighting and shipments stuck in customs, aid agencies have so far only managed to deliver relatively small quantities of food and medicine to conflict areas. On Sunday the UN said 53 trucks with life-saving supplies, around one-third of those planned, had been able to reach their destinations since the truce began. The fighting sparked mass evacuations of thousands of foreign nationals in the initial weeks, while many abandoned foreign diplomatic facilities were ransacked. In the latest such attack, Libya's foreign ministry on Tuesday denounced "the assault and looting" of its Khartoum embassy. Fears Of 'Civil War' The situation is particularly dire in Darfur, the vast western region already ravaged by two decades of war and civil strife. Activists and aid workers say Darfur civilians continue to be attacked, entire districts have been burned to the ground, and tens of thousands have been forced to flee into neighbouring Chad. The UN has warned for weeks that fighting in Darfur's major cities between the army and the RSF has also drawn in local militias, tribal fighters and armed civilians. Darfur's pro-army governor Mini Minawi, a former rebel leader, has urged citizens to "take up arms" to defend their property. Sudan could descend into "total civil war", warned the Forces for Freedom and Change, the main civilian bloc ousted from power by Burhan and Daglo in a 2021 military takeover. "We must arm ourselves," a Darfur resident, Abubakr Ismail, told AFP. "It's an impossible situation. People are completely alone. They're being attacked in their homes and they can't do anything." But another resident contacted by AFP, Mohammed Hassan, said such "totally irresponsible" appeals are dangerous and "can lead us into civil war". Search Keywords: Short link: RICHMOND, Va. (AP) The governors of Virginia, West Virginia and South Carolina on Wednesday joined a growing list of Republican leaders sending their state National Guard soldiers or other state law enforcement officers to the U.S. border with Mexico. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who is considered a possible presidential aspirant, announced an executive order directing the deployment of 100 Virginia National Guard soldiers and 21 support personnel. South Carolinas Henry McMaster and West Virginias Jim Justice announced their deployments shortly thereafter, also in response to a request from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. The announcements bring to at least eight the number of Republican-led states deploying soldiers or offering other assistance in the weeks since Abbott appealed for help. The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state, Youngkin said in a statement. As leadership solutions at the federal level fall short, states are answering the call to secure our southern border, reduce the flow of fentanyl, combat human trafficking and address the humanitarian crisis. President Joe Biden announced in early May plans to send 1,500 active-duty troops to the border, in addition to the 2,500 National Guard members already there. Those military personnel were tasked with data entry, warehouse support and other administrative duties so that U.S. Customs and Border Protection can focus on fieldwork, the White House said. But the Virginia deployment and others from Republican-led states have specifically been in support of Texas Operation Lone Star, which is separate from the active duty and National Guard troops working with the Customs and Border Protection. Abbott launched Lone Star in 2021, saying that the Biden administration was essentially welcoming illegal immigration. Critics have questioned the effectiveness of the multi-billion dollar operation. Some arrests, including for low-level amounts of marijuana during traffic stops, appeared to have little to do with border security, and some Texas National Guard troops initially complained of low morale, late paychecks and having little to do. Abbotts request this month came through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, which facilitates state-level mutual aid nationwide. Youngkin and McMaster also joined other governors in Austin last week to discuss border policies. McMasters news release said South Carolinas mission is in the planning phase, with a goal of deployment by July 1. Justice said he had approved the deployment of as many as 50 West Virginia National Guard soldiers and airmen for 30 days. Youngkins order said the Virginia troops will answer to a military commander during a 30-day deployment, not any local civilian authorities. The operating cost of the mission is $3.1 million, spokeswoman Macaulay Porter said in an email. Youngkin, a former private equity executive who is barred under Virginia law from seeking a second consecutive term, is frequently mentioned as a possible 2024 presidential contender. He said earlier this month that he had no plans to launch such a bid this year. Presidential candidate and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is among the other governors who have announced plans to deploy Guard troops and other officers since Abbotts request was made. Mississippi, Iowa, Tennessee, and Nebraska have also volunteered aid, and other GOP-led states have made similar deployments in recent years, part of the partys criticism of Bidens performance on the border. The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond Wednesday to a request for comment on the states deployments. In Virginia, while some Republicans praised Youngkins decision, the states Democrats characterized the move as absurd, disingenuous or politically motivated. Youngkin for President has officially jumped the shark -- our VA National Guard troops shouldnt be used to further presidential ambitions much less fight a MAGA culture war in Texas of all places -- Never thought I would see my state so compromised, tweeted state Sen. Scott Surovell. ___ Associated Press reporters John Raby in Charleston, West Virginia; Jeffrey Collins and James Pollard in Columbia, South Carolina; and Rebecca Santana in Washington contributed to this report. SHARE: Danielle Smith has a majority government in Alberta. It may be razor thin, the smallest in provincial history in fact. She may have lost to the NDPs Rachel Notley in Albertas two major cities, she presides over a province split along rural-urban and ideological lines and is expected to face threats from within during her tenure. But a majority is a majority. Thats what we know. What will unspool in the coming month are answers to some pretty big questions. Specifically, which Smith is set to govern, what impact, if any, the Alberta vote could have nationally, and its impact on Ottawas climate change goals. Smith is an accomplished communicator and she used those skills to her advantage over the course of the campaign. Whether she was following a script or is evolving into a more responsible, polished leader has yet to be determined, but she benefited from voter behaviour that is becoming increasingly prevalent, the notion that views of a leader are baked-in and met with a shrug as long as he or she is wearing the right team colours and the bad guys on the other side need to be held at bay. Voters already knew that she had compared the provinces vaccinated to followers of Hitler and felt they were the most discriminated people in the history of her province, that a neutral Ukraine could assuage the fears that led to Vladimir Putins invasion, that doctors should never again lead the response to a pandemic and that the provincial ethics commissioner had concluded her intervention in the case of a radical anti-vaccine street pastor charged for his role in the blockade at the Coutts border was a threat to democracy. This baked-in voter determination has popped up regularly in recent years most obviously among Donald Trumps MAGA supporters but the Alberta of 2023 may not be an ideal laboratory to study this phenomenon nationally. Smith and her United Conservatives were dragged to victory by the weight of conservative history in the province; a historical pull that is clearly waning. Smith chose blandishments over blasphemy and avoided thinking out loud over the campaign, but she also stayed clear of some issues as well. What of her goal to create an Alberta pension plan or a provincial police force, her musings on privatizing hospitals or her much ballyhooed Sovereignty Act? Were they mere baubles for the base, fully formed thought bubbles, or are they still sitting in her back pocket, to be pulled out with her majority? Most alarming was Smiths call to arms for all Albertans to battle the Trudeau government on its quest to meet carbon neutral targets, including his just transition for energy workers moving to cleaner energy jobs, regulating power plants fuelled by natural gas and imposing emissions caps. We need to come together, no matter how we have voted, to stand shoulder-to-shoulder against soon-to-be announced Ottawa policies that would significantly harm our provincial economy, Smith said in her victory speech. She said Trudeau was plotting actions that would massively increase Albertans power bills and endanger the power grid the province depends on during cold and dark Alberta winters. She called Trudeaus proposed emissions cap a production cap that would cost tens of thousands of jobs, tens of billions of dollars of lost investment and bring economic hardship to Albertans. As premier I cannot under any circumstances let these contemplated policies be inflicted on Alberta. I simply cant. And I wont. She has her allies in this, federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe most notable among them. And even though key Trudeau cabinet ministers spoke the language of co-operation and conciliation Tuesday, they know the road to effective carbon reduction is now strewn with fresh potholes. Make no mistake. Acrimony was always on the Alberta-Ottawa agenda, but it is back with a bang. And that is bad news for the majority of Canadians who are demanding substantive action to fight climate change. Correction May 31, 2023: Before she was premier of Alberta, Danielle Smith compared the provinces vaccinated to followers of Hitler. A previous version of this editorial mistakenly said Smith was speaking of the unvaccinated. Read more about: SHARE: Ontarios Liberals hit rock bottom. Could Bonnie Crombie be their saviour? March 7 Both the Liberals and the NDP missed a golden opportunity to defeat Premier Doug Ford in the next election when Mike Shriner (Green Party Leader) declined the Liberal invitation to join their party. Shriner is the sharpest knife in the drawer and he saw that being the leader of the Liberal party was not a path to victory. After the last election with both the Liberals and the NDP without a new leader both parties gave into vanity and elected their own leaders rather than taking the opportunity to unite the left under one banner and challenge Fords Conservative majority. A unified party under the leadership of Shriner would have been a formidable foe. As it stands now both parties have doomed themselves to being also rans despite Marit Stiles and potentially Bonnie Crombie. Robert Bahlieda, Newmarket Read more about: SHARE: Ontario passes health-reform bill that expands private delivery of care , May 8 This privatization creep being committed by the Government of Ontario will ultimately have a nefarious effect on our public funded health-care system. I have ulcerative colitis and am taking quite a medication now. Luckily, I have workplace benefits to cover for drugs, but really the direction should be to expand the scope of public health care (like including dental, prescription drugs and mental health/elder care), not some privatization scheme to enhance health-care operational efficiency. I have a roommate who is self-employed and has no drug/dental plan, so every time he needs drugs he has to pay out of pocket. So, I know firsthand the need for a national pharmacare. Anyways, the gist of my message is the need to strengthen public health care and spend the money wisely in a way that truly improves service delivery of public health care. Young Kwon, Toronto SHARE: OTTAWACanadian news publishers have shed new light on how journalism in Canada could be harmed if big tech platforms make good on their threats to block the posting of their content, should Ottawas online news bill pass unchanged. Jeff Elgie, the CEO of community news company Village Media, told senators studying the bill that Google and Facebook generate more than 50 per cent of his digital companys web traffic. If that traffic was lost, the business would be over, said Elgie, whose company owns 25 local news publications across Ontario. Pierre-Elliott Levasseur, the president of Quebecs La Presse and a director with News Media Canada, said if news sharing was blocked on Facebook alone, the French-language news outlet would take a financial hit of under a million dollars. And Phillip Crawley, the publisher and CEO of the Globe and Mail, said a potential Facebook news ban in Canada would mean a loss of millions of dollars for the national newspaper. What is Bill C-18 and why are Google and Meta worried about it? The trio were discussing Bill C-18, or the Online News Act: a proposed piece of legislation the Liberals and many media organizations hope to see passed before Parliament rises for the summer. The bill would compel digital giants like Google and Meta Facebooks parent company to strike deals with Canadian media publishers for sharing and directing their users to online news content. The Liberal government views the bill as a way to support a shrinking journalism industry Ottawa says has been hurt by tech titans domination of the digital advertising market. Torstar, which owns the Toronto Star, supports the bill, and currently has deals with both platforms for news sharing. Both Google and Meta oppose aspects of the proposed legislation, arguing that news content accounts for a small percentage of queries and revenue on their platforms. If the bill passes in its current form, Google has signalled it could cut its existing deals with Canadian publishers as it decides whether to wipe news content for Canadians who use its search engine entirely. Meta, meanwhile, says its ready to pull the plug on all news content posted and shared within Canada on Facebook and Instagram. Chief among the web giants arguments is also their assertion that they drive hundreds of millions of dollars in free traffic back to publishers, simply for displaying news content on their pages. If Facebook pulls out of news in Canada as they have indicated, it will have a devastating impact on Canadas digital news ecosystem Google and Facebook have been the best on-ramps to our local news sites. In the absence of either of them, sustainably launching new sites, or even sustaining recently launched sites might no longer be possible, Elgie said. Even worse, Canadians will no longer be exposed to news in that environment, at a time when voter turnout is at record lows, and we can expect to be flooded with misinformation through technologies like generative AI. Why are news publishers concerned about AI? Generative AI is a form of artificial intelligence that can reproduce text and images when prompted to do so. The surging popularity of AI, like OpenAIs ChatGPT, has sparked concern that false, artificially generated information will swamp the internet. Its also raised questions over whether Googles search engine could be affected by the technology, said the Globes Crawley, who added that the search tool accounts for 30 per cent of the newspapers online traffic. The whole search business could be in a state of flux. So you know, were sitting talking here today but the current situation isnt going to be the same in 12 months time, Crawley said. Witnesses before the Senates transport and communications committee touted a number of amendments Tuesday that they hope to see built into the proposed legislation, including tweaking a section of the bill critics say gives the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) wide latitude to demand confidential information from news companies. We want to limit the role of the CRTC. We dont want them snooping around in our newsrooms, said Paul Deegan, CEO of News Media Canada. Weve talked to (Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguezs) office, weve talked to the officials at Heritage. We believe these amendments are doable, and we believe that you can get them done. Crawley added he was more concerned about the threat to independence of media, rather than the loss of a few million dollars, something he said represents a much more long-term threat to our industry. Will we know how much money publishers receive? Canadalands Jesse Brown, meanwhile, continued to push for a more robust transparency mechanism to be folded into the bill, which he said would peel back the curtain of the notoriously mysterious deals and make it clear to Canadians who is getting money from platforms and how much they are receiving. Those answers are a secret. And once this bill becomes a law, every qualifying news organization will be in a position to enter into their own secret deal with Facebook and Google. And that secrecy is poisonous to trust, Brown said. Our proposed amendment would standardize the funding for all qualifying news organizations. Everybody would get the same amount relative to the size of their editorial expenditures, not payroll editorial expenditures, he said. Read more about: SHARE: Chinas decision to reject a request from the United States for a meeting between the defence chiefs of the two countries marks yet another escalation in the already strained relations between the worlds two largest economies. The two defence chiefs, US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and his Chinese counterpart, Li Shangfu, are in Singapore this week as part of the Shangri-La dialogue, and the request for a meeting had been made earlier this month by Washington. Beijings rebuff underscores the deepening tensions and growing mistrust between the two countries, especially after the United States imposed sanctions on China, as it did on Mr. Li for overseeing an arms purchase from Russia in 2018. Indeed, Beijing says it has said no to the request because it believes any talks would be on an unequal footing because of the sanctions. America, on the other hand, believes strongly in the importance of maintaining open lines of military-to-military communication between Washington and Beijing to ensure that competition does not veer into conflict and says the sanctions should not come in the way of a meeting concerning official business of two sovereign states. But Beijings stance reflects the current state of the relationship, characterised by disputes on multiple fronts, including trade, technology, human rights, and territorial claims. In addition, China is displeased by American support for Taiwan and its military presence in the South China Sea. The implications of the Chinese action are manifold. Firstly, it highlights the increasing difficulty in managing the complex relationship between the two powers. With both countries vying for regional dominance and pursuing divergent strategic interests, finding common ground has become increasingly challenging. The rejection of the meeting further exacerbates this situation and contributes to an atmosphere of mistrust and hostility. Secondly, the denial of the meeting could hinder efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote stability in the Asia-Pacific region. Chinas rejection also sends a clear message to other regional players, particularly those with aligned interests, such as Russia and North Korea. It asserts Chinas position as a formidable power that is willing to put its foot down and challenge US influence in the region and around the world. Additionally, the rejection of the meeting may impact global security and strategic stability. As the two largest military powers, China and the United States bear responsibility for maintaining peace and preventing conflicts that could have devastating consequences. A breakdown in communication and dialogue between their defence establishments reduces channels for crisis management and conflict resolution, potentially increasing the risk of unintended escalations and destabilizing actions. But all may not be lost. Last week, top commerce officials from the two sides had met, and earlier this month National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan talked to top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi in Vienna. Such engagements are vital to ensure that the rocky relationship remains rooted in dialogue. Of late, the South Pacific has emerged as an important contender for external patronage whether for reasons as mundane as providing vast supplies of tuna it is the worlds second largest centre for harvesting this fish or because it facilitates strategic, military and defense bases in its remote territories. It is a matter of contention however, as to whether such forays and heightened interest by external donors address the Pacific Island Countries (PICs) core concerns. In March 2022, when China signed a security agreement with the Solomon Islands, the island country witnessed strong, internal disturbances when its largest and most populous Malaita province dissented with the central government at Honiara and opted to continue with its practice of according diplomatic recognition to Taiwan. While Malaita received US$25m directly from the US government, PM Sogavares government at Honiara was promised US$730m by the Chinese. Earlier this month, the US signed a security pact with PNG, following which it has undertaken to provide US$45m to it for enhancing securityrelated cooperation. The pact provoked strong protests by civil society groups and others who expressed misgivings about the increased militarization of the region and especially that the South Pacific is getting caught between heightened geo-political rivalry between the US and China. While the US is maintaining military and air bases at Guam and a Ballistic Missile facility at Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands, it is constructing a high-frequency radar system at Palau and has military ties with Fiji, PNG and Tonga. China, on the other hand, seeks to develop dual-use ports and airfields. The Solomon Islands China security pact signed last year, grants the Chinese navy rights to dock and replenish, suggesting that the facility could be expanded in the future. On a similar note, in March this year, at the request of Kiribati which switched its affiliation to China from Taiwan in 2019 Chinese experts conducted a study to upgrade a US-built, World War II-era runway on Canton Island, Kiribati, ostensibly only for civilian purposes. The trends have understandably put regional players such as Australia and New Zealand which have traditionally shepherded the Islanders interests, on alert. While Australia seeks to counter Chinese influence with a liberalized budget under its Pacific Step-Up programme, New Zealand has introduced its Pacific Reset initiative to kick-start availability of more aid for its Pacific interlocutors. All such aid inflows notwithstanding, the PICs cannot be blamed if they remain apprehensive about their land and mineral resources being targeted by external donors. Or, if they shy away from being caught up in military or geo-political rivalries. Geographically remote, bereft of adequate infrastructure even in urban centres and generally engaged in primary economic activities such as agriculture and fishing, their communities obviously have other, critical priorities. A case in point is their long-pending appeal for more attention on the risks posed by natural calamities and Climate Change-induced loss of their physical territories due to rising waters in the wake of Global Warming. Or their misgivings about their mounting debt burdens, loss of tourism and other revenues during Covid. Separately, it would be difficult to brush aside the fact that, in the current era of globalization and intense market competition, it would take long years before these countries can develop the skills, expertise and manufacturing edge for participating in global supply chains. The latest trends unfolding in the South Pacific obviously, will need to elicit appropriate foreign policy responses from India. To a considerable extent, Indias sensitivities about the South Pacific are an extension of its concerns regarding the Indo-Pacific keeping the maritime lanes free and moving and ensuring that any naval bases or other such facilities do not pose any defense or security-related risks. Also, regarding the welfare of its diaspora residing in some of them. Given that it would be too expensive for its upcoming blue navy or strenuously-assigned, defense forces to open new fronts, it would be best to limit deterrent initiatives to those under the Quad umbrella. Stretched as it is by its own monumental economic challenges, Indias preference in such matters, understandably, has been to not routinely participate in big ticket, infrastructural projects. Except, as in the case of neighbouring countries, when tangible economic or strategic advantages are at stake. Given the PICs emerging strategic importance and also because of their votes in the UN, we might need to revisit these constraints and allocate more resources in the future. Until then, it might be advisable to give further teeth to our ongoing, benign Development Partnership engagement, especially for strengthening the human resources capital in such countries. There are very few donor countries which can match the skills and expertise of Indias vast pool of scientists and experts in areas such as agriculture, ICT and digital technologies, medicine, biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences, disaster-management, renewable energy, outer space or other high technology disciplines. Also, they specialise in providing guidance and assistance on the most frugal, economic terms. Indias recent offers to donate dialysis units; commitment on setting up a super-specialty cardiology hospital at Fiji; providing sea ambulances to 14 FIPIC members; supplying diabetes and other medicines; upgrading or setting up new Centres of Excellence for imparting IT training; providing machinery and technology for upgrading the SME sector in recipient nations and other such initiatives announced at FIPIC III are therefore timely. By providing PICs with a voice and support on Global South issues, including on existential aspects such as Climate Change or on UNSDGrelated themes, India has validated its humane and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam credentials. It now needs to deepen this interface even further and carry the ongoing camaraderie and bonhomie under FIPIC, to the next level. (The writer, a retired Indian Foreign Service officer, teaches at O P Jindal Global University.) Even the most trenchant critics of the Congress will agree that the business of government formation in Karnataka, following the partys signal triumph in the assembly elections earlier this month, has been accomplished with a degree of maturity. When election results were announced, there was speculation, some informed but a lot of it wishful, that government formation would be hobbled variously by the tug of war between its two local strongmen, and by the competing claims of influential communities in a caste-ridden state. In the event, and after a couple of days of drama in the national headquarters of the party, the government of Karnataka has taken shape, and appears to accommodate the ambitions of all its senior leaders. The first question ~ of who would be Chief Minister ~ was settled quite easily, and from all accounts, D K Shivakumar gracefully accepted the formulation arrived at by party bosses who picked the veteran Siddaramaiah to head the government. The next question surrounded the ambitions of the partys most prominent Dalit leader, Dr. G Parameshwara and the leading Lingayat leader, M B Patil. The former had served in the past as Deputy Chief Minister of the state and had headed the state unit of the party, while the latter was said to be instrumental in ensuring the switch of a chunk of his communitys votes from the Bharatiya Janata Party to the Congress. In the event, the announcement of Cabinet portfolios this week shows that care has been taken to accommodate both leaders with grace, with Dr. Parameshwara getting the crucial Home portfolio and Mr. Patil the equally significant Large and Medium Industries portfolio. While a step short of what they may have aspired for, these allocations should allow the two leaders to pull strongly with the rest of the ministry. Mr. Siddaramaiah has retained the Finance, Personnel, Intelligence, IT and infrastructure portfolios which should ensure that his grip on the affairs of the state remains firm. His deputy, Mr. Shivakumar, has been given charge of Irrigation and Bengaluru development, both very significant, the former because agriculture is the most prominent occupation in the state, and the latter because the capital city contributes more than a third of the states Gross Domestic Product. In essence, therefore, the process of government formation appears to have been accomplished with considerable skill. This government will have to hit the ground running, because the administrative successes the Congress can show in Karnataka will have an impact on its prospects in other states that go to the polls later this year. Of the five states ~ Chhatisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Rajasthan and Telangana ~ the Congress has a strong presence in at least three and the party will hope that the momentum gained from victories in Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka this year will help it triumph in these. A lot, therefore, will depend on how its government in Bengaluru performs. It seems to have begun well and party leaders must hope that it avoids the pitfalls of infighting that have hobbled other Congress-ruled states. The supreme leader of the Taliban met in Afghanistan with Qatar's prime minister this month, the first-such publicly known meeting between the Taliban's reclusive leader and a foreign official, the Al Jazeera satellite news network reported Wednesday. Haibatullah Akhunzada met Qatar's Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on May 12 in Afghanistan's southern city of Kandahar, the spiritual birthplace of the Taliban, Al Jazeera said. Sheikh Mohammed also is the foreign minister of Qatar, an energy-rich nation on the Arabian Peninsula. The state-owned network did not specifically discuss what the two officials spoke about, though it described the meeting as aimed at ways to end the Taliban's international isolation. Qatari government officials declined to discuss the meeting, which Reuters first reported. A source told Reuters that the meeting aimed at resolving Afghanistan's rulers tension with the international community. The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said other issues Sheikh Mohammed raised with Haibatullah included the need to end Taliban bans on girls' education and women's employment, and the efforts to remedy Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis. "It was a very positive meeting," said the source. Haibatullah was "very interested" in continuing a dialogue with the international community. Also, Sheikh Mohammed, the source said, raised with Haibatullah the "continued efforts on the ground" by the Taliban on counterterrorism, an apparent reference to Kabul's drive to crush an Islamic State affiliate. The Taliban did not respond to requests for comment regarding the meeting. The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. It's unclear, however, what effect such a meeting will have. The Taliban seized Afghanistan in August 2021 as U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. Taliban fighters also exchanged gunfire with Iranian border guards on Saturday. Qatar, which hosts a major U.S. military base in the region, served as a crucial point for those fleeing the Taliban in the chaotic days of the American withdrawal from Afghanistan. Qatar also hosts a diplomatic post for the Taliban and hosted talks between the group and then-President Donald Trump's administration. Search Keywords: Short link: Keeping an eye on the upcoming panchayat elections, chief minister Mamata Banerjee today announced a big recruitment drive with around 1.25 lakh people to be recruited within this year. The process for filling up vacancies would begin within the next two months. Stung by severe workforce crunch in different departments, coupled with a freeze on recruitments in educational institutions, the state government took the decision to fill up the vacant spots. Out of the 1.25 lakh recruitments, around 25,500 appointments of teachers would form the core. Of this, for primary and upper primary, the volume of recruitments would be 11,000 and 14, 500 respectively, while 2,200 professors would be appointed for college and universities respectively. Besides, 20,000 posts would be filled in the police force, 3,000 would be absorbed as excise constables. The government would recruit 12,000 people for Group D, 3,000 for Group C respectively. In a boost to the health sector, 2,000 doctors along with 7,000 nurses would be recruited this year. These apart, 7,000 Asha workers along with 9,493 anganwadi workers would be recruited. The chief minister, while replying to queries also claimed that she had shot off a letter to the Union home minister Amit Shah seeking his permission to visit strife-torn Manipur. On Governor CV Anand Boses alleged soft-pedalling on the issue of the appointment of state election commissioner, she said that her government was pursuing the issue much before the current incumbent Sourav Das was to retire and the state government had already sent a file recommending name of former chief secretary Rajiva Sinha as the new SEC but the file was yet to be cleared by the Governor. She also said that if he had any issue with it he should have sent it back to the government immediately The Delhi government has filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the National Green Tribunals (NGT) decision to appoint the Lieutenant Governor (LG) as the Chairman of the High-Level Committee on Solid Waste Management. The Delhi government has urged the Supreme Court to quash the NGT order dated February 16. The Delhi government has submitted that the order violates the Constitutional scheme of governance in Delhi as well as the 2018 and 2023 orders of the Constitution Bench of SC. Through its order, the NGT had established this committee, comprising various authorities in Delhi, to address the problem of Solid Waste Management, with the LG, a mere figurehead of the state, as its Chairman. This Committee also comprises of the Chief Secretary, Delhi, Secretaries of the Irrigation, Forest and Environment, Agriculture, and Finance Departments, Government of Delhi, Chief Executive Officer, Delhi Jal Board, Vice Chairman of the Delhi Development Authority, Secretary or his nominee in Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, DG Forest or his nominee, MoEF&CC, Government of India, Secretary, MoJS or his nominee, MoEF&CC, DG NMCG and Chairman CPCB, the Delhi government said in the statement on Wednesday. In its petition, the Delhi government has recognised the need for interdepartmental coordination to address Solid Waste Management issues and implement remedial measures, but it has strongly objected to the executive powers granted to the LG through the NGTs order. These powers encroach upon areas exclusively under the competence of the elected government of Delhi. NGT has appointed the Lt. Governor as the chairman of a committee when there was absolutely no statutory or constitutional power conferred upon the Lt. Governor to chair such a committee, the petition reads. In its appeal, the Delhi government contended that according to the administrative structure in Delhi and the provisions of Article 239AA of the Constitution, the LG serves as a nominal figurehead, except in matters pertaining to land, public order, and police, where the LG exercises powers delegated by the Constitution. The Delhi government acknowledged the importance of a coordinated approach, but it asserted that the language used in the NGT order sidelines the elected government. The plea explains that granting executive powers to an authority that lacks the constitutional mandate to possess them undermines the elected governments rightful jurisdiction. According to Article 239AA of the Constitution, the Lieutenant Governor is bound to act solely based on the aid and advice of the council of ministers, led by the Chief Minister. It has been a well-established constitutional principle for the past 50 years that the powers vested in a nominal and unelected head of state should only be exercised under the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said he would meet his Tamil Nadu and Jharkhand counterparts MK Stalin and Hemant Soren on June 1 and June 2 respectively, to seek their support against the Centres ordinance giving control of services back to the Delhi Lieutenant Governor. Will be meeting Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @mkstalin in Chennai tomorrow (1st June) to seek DMKs support against Centres unconstitutional-undemocratic Anti-Delhi Ordinance, Kejriwal said in a tweet. On June 2, I will meet the chief minister of Jharkhand Mr @HemantSorenJMM ji in Ranchi. Will seek their support against the ordinance passed by the Modi government against the people of Delhi, the Delhi Chief Minister said in another tweet. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor had on May 23 embarked on a nationwide tour to seek support from the Opposition parties against the ordinance. Kejriwal has so far met West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, former Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav. The Central government has brought an ordinance to set up a permanent authority known as the National Capital Civil Service Authority whose chairperson will be the Delhi chief minister along with chief secretary, Delhi; Principal Secretary (Home), Delhi to make recommendations to the Delhi L-G regarding matters concerning transfer posting, vigilance and other incidental matters. However, in case of difference of opinion, the decision of the L-G shall be final. On May 11, a five-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court ruled that it is ideal to hold that a democratically elected Delhi government should have control over its officers and the L-G is bound by the advice of the elected government in everything other than public order, police, and land. The top court stressed that if the government is not able to control and hold to account the officers posted in its service, then its responsibility towards the legislature as well as the public is diluted. The ordinance came after the apex court gave the Delhi government control in services matters, including transfer and posting of officers. In a bid to help prisoners reintegrate better with society after completion of their jail term, the Yogi Adityanath-led BJP Government in Uttar Pradesh is providing skill training to the prisoners in various trades under the Prime Ministers Skill Development Program. In the last year, 8,160 prisoners have received training in about 60 trades, officials here on Tuesday said. A total of 376 prisoners received training in 12 trades in five district jails in the Ayodhya zone. In this, 155 prisoners were trained in District Jail Barabanki, 84 in Gonda, 30 in Bahraich, 93 in Ambedkar Nagar, and 14 in Ayodhya. Similarly, 373 prisoners received training in a total of 8 trades in 9 district jails in the Gorakhpur zone. In this, 25 prisoners were trained in District Jail Gorakhpur, 68 in Deoria, 46 in Maharajganj, 25 in Basti, 35 in Siddharth Nagar, 20 in Azamgarh, 45 in Ballia, 93 in Mau and 16 in Sant Kabir Nagar. In Bareilly Zone, 1010 prisoners received training in 20 trades in 6 District Jails including the Central Jail. In this, 120 prisoners were trained in Central Jail Bareilly, 117 in District Jail Pilibhit, 244 in Badaun, 234 in Shahjahanpur, 105 in Moradabad, and 190 in Bijnor. In Kanpur Zone, 388 prisoners received training in 15 trades in 6 District Jails including the Central Jail. In this, 65 prisoners were trained in Central Jail Fatehgarh, 102 in District Jail Fatehgarh, 55 in Orai, 53 in Lalitpur, 5 in Kannauj and 108 in Jhansi. 541 prisoners received training in 17 trades in Central Jail, District Jail and sub-jail in Prayagraj area. In this, 50 prisoners were trained in Central Jail Naini, 20 in District Jail Pratapgarh, 64 in Chitrakoot, 159 in Kaushambi, 123 in Fatehpur, 20 in Banda and 105 in Sub Jail Mahoba. A total of 3225 prisoners received training in 33 trades in 6 district jails in Meerut zone. In this, 351 inmates received training in Meerut District Jail, 465 in Ghaziabad, 250 in Gautam Buddha Nagar, 1012 in Bulandshahr, 31 in Saharanpur and 1126 in Muzaffarnagar.A total of 1011 prisoners were trained in 18 trades in 8 district jails in Agra zone. As many as 975 prisoners received training in total 23 trades in 7 Nari Bandi Niketan including Adarsh Jail, District Jail in Lucknow zone. In this, 106 prisoners were trained in Adarsh Jail Lucknow, 152 in District Jail Unnao, 188 in Nari Bandi Niketan Lucknow, 169 in District Jail Sitapur, 59 in Kheri, 110 in Hardoi and 191 in Rae Bareilly. On the other hand, 251 prisoners received training in 5 trades in 6 district jails including Central Jail in Varanasi Zone. The yogi Government made extensive efforts to provide training and skill development to prisoners across different zones and districts. Training is being imparted in about 60 trades including computer software, carpentry, mason, mobile, beautician, Bakery, sewing, embroidery, wood art, motor binding, computer, electrician, tailoring, electrical wiring, electric, plumbing, earthen lamps and utensils, compost manure, electronics, dairy farming and vermicomposting, and fisheries among others in the prisons of the state. Well, now we know that Alena Khalifeh, the woman who proposed to the Bollywood star Salman Khan is a foreign journalist and digital content creator. She is also very active on social media. But she wears many hats. Alena Khalifeh is also a broadcast presenter and manages digital media from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. As per reports, she is also a retail manager at Gucci. Interestingly, she is also an Instagram star as she has 92.6k followers and loved by fans for her content. She came to the limelight when she proposed to Actor Salman Khan for Marriage during IIFA 2023 Green Carpet in Abu Dhabi on 26 May 2023. She did her schooling from Brummana High School and she graduated from Lebanese American University in Marketing & Psychology. On 26 May 2023 the fans favourite Tiger 3 star Salman Khan attended the IIFA 2023 at Abu Dhabus Yas Island and suddenly Alena came up from nowhere, Salman Khan, I came for you from Hollywood just to ask you this question. I fell In love with you from the moment I saw you. and Salman Khan said, You are not talking about Shah Rukh Khan, right? he questioned jokingly. She said she was talking about no other Khan but Salman and saying Will you marry me? Salman replied My days of getting married are over. You should have met me about 20 years ago. This Incident is getting viral on social media and Alena Khalifeh is trending Salman Khans stardom extends globally, attracting marriage proposals even from Hollywood. During IIFA 2023 in Abu Dhabi, a video of a journalist named Alena Khalifeh proposing to Salman went viral. The 24-year-old fan of Bollywood actor Salman Khan, Alena made headlines after she proposed to Salman during the star-studded IIFA 2023 event held on May 26 in Abu Dhabis Yas Island. Who is Alena Khalifeh? Alena Khalifeh is a multi-faceted professional from Dubai, known for her versatility in various fields. Her wide range of expertise includes broadcast presenter, retail, leadership, content creation, marketing, digital media, and management. On her LinkedIn profile, Alena showcases her diverse skill set and highlights her experiences in these areas. With an Instagram following of 92K, Alena has gained a significant online presence. She also hosts a show called AKChats, which likely provides a platform for engaging discussions and conversations. For a visual glimpse into Alenas world, you can check out her pictures below. The viral video A video capturing the proposal quickly went viral, showcasing Salmans humorous and endearing response. The video begins with Salman dressed in an all-black suit, engaging with the paparazzi. Suddenly, an enthusiastic Alena can be heard expressing her love for Salman, stating that she came all the way from Hollywood to pop the question. Salman, displaying his wit, humorously questioned if she was referring to him or confusing him with Shah Rukh Khan, given their shared surname. Alena promptly confirmed that her proposal was indeed for Salman, leading to her direct and unabashed marriage proposal. In response, Salman genuinely stated that his days of getting married were over and jokingly mentioned that she should have approached him about 20 years ago. Khalifehs proposal to Khan went viral on social media, and she was soon interviewed by several news outlets. She said that she had been planning the proposal for several months, and that she had even hired a professional photographer to document the event. She said that she was not afraid of being rejected by Khan, and that she was simply happy to have been able to express her feelings for him. Khan has not yet responded to Khalifehs proposal. However, he has previously said that he is not interested in getting married right now. He is currently single, and he has been linked to several actresses in the past. However, he has never confirmed any of these relationships. Only time will tell if Khalifeh will be able to win Khans heart. However, she is certainly not giving up hope. On his third day of his visit to Manipur, Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Moreh and Kangpokpi and had wide ranging discussions with civil society organisations. He interacted with the delegations of various local groups in Moreh followed by meeting with Civil Society Organisations in Kangpokpi. Later he held a security review meeting in Imphal. Speaking to The Statesman, VamSuan Naulak, convenor, Manipur Tribal Forum, Delhi Chapter said, stress, scarcity and lack of security is faced by the tribal communities living in the villages near Imphal, While there is non-stop violence going on in the region, the residents are facing a tough situation due acute shortage daily essentials. The villages located within 100 kilometers of the Imphal are witnessing the crisis. Members of the Manipur Tribal Forum met the visiting home minister at Assam Rifles office. After meeting the delegation of Manipur Tribal forum, the home minister assured that supply of essential items in hill areas and helicopter services for emergency needs in Churachandpur, Moreh and Kangpokpi will be ensured Home Minister also visited a relief camp in Kangpokpi and met the Kuki community members, The Minister said, we are committed to restoring peace in Manipur as early as possible and ensuring their return to their homes Shah visited a relief camp in Imphal where the members of the Meitei community are residing, Home Minister said that our resolve remains focused on leading Manipur back to the track of peace and harmony again and their return to their home at the earliest. Home Minister also held security review meeting with top officials in Imphal ,directed them to take stern and promptce actions to prevent violence, against armed miscreants and recover looted weapons to bring back normalcy at the earliest He met a delegation of Hill tribal council, Kuki Students Organisation, Kuki Chiefs Association, Tamil Sangam, Gorkha Samaj and Manipuri Muslim council in Moreh. The delegates expressed strong support for the governments initiatives to restore normalcy in the state. The Union Home Minister also took briefings on the security situation from senior officials. Three Pakistani terrorists were apprehended alive by the Indian Army while infiltrating into Indian territory through the Line of Control (LOC) with warlike arms and ammunition in the Poonch district during wee hours on Wednesday after an encounter. In exchange of fire with the terrorists, a soldier and a terrorist were injured. A 10 kg improvised explosive device (IED) recovered from the possession of the terrorists has some markings embossed in Urdu. Besides, an AK 56 assault rifle, six Chinese grenades, two pistols with 70 bullets and 20 packets of narcotics has been recovered from the terrorists. Giving details about the operation, defence spokesman Lt. Colonel Devender Anand said, In a joint operation by the Indian Army and the J&K Police, likely 3-4 terrorists were intercepted on Line of Control in Poonch sector while attempting to cross the fence on the night of 30/ 31 May, taking the advantage of bad weather and heavy rains. After tracking the movement at about 01:30 am, a well sited Indian Army ambush on challenging them was fired upon and in the retaliatory firefight some terrorists have been hit. The area is cordoned and search operation is in progress. Blood trails have been found. Three terrorists with some weapons, war-like stores including one IED and Narco have been apprehended. One Indian Army soldier was injured in the ensuing firing and has been evacuated. Search operations are in progress, he added. Ahead of Assembly elections, the AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi launched an attack on the BRS Government in Telangana led by Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao accusing it of neglecting the development in the Old City area of Hyderabad and depriving the Muslim community of development while taking care of the Dalits and the Brahmins. Speaking at a public rally in Sadasivpet last night, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi launched a broadside against the BRS Government while retorting to a jibe by Union Home minister Amit Shah who often refers to the AIMIM as the steering wheel of a car (symbol of the BRS). He pointed out that their proposals were not being taken up by the BRS and if they were indeed the steering wheel would that have happened. Warning that Muslims should not be taken for granted, Owaisi iterated that the last bit of Metro rail connectivity in the old city area which would cost only Rs 500 crore was yet to be taken up even when tenders have been floated for the new line between Mindspace and Shamshabad airport at cost of Rs5685 crores. If a Brahmin Sadan is being constructed it is very good. What about the Muslim Centre for which land was given at the same place but it has not been constructed, he asked. The criticism came in the wake of the chief minister announcing a slew of assistance and welfare scheme for Brahmins ahead of the elections due in December. The Hyderabad recalled that while giving Rs 10 lakh to Dalit families as financial assistance under the Dalit Bandhu Scheme, the state government discarded the AIMIMs proposal for a similar scheme for the minorities who are under the below poverty line. Despite the criticism from Asaduddin Owaisi many are unwilling to take his jibes seriously pointing out the BRS and AIMIM usually play the same game before every election while having friendly fights in certain constituencies to keep the BJP out. His attack was aimed at taking the wind out of the sails of BJP. Meanwhile, Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao inaugurated the Brahmin Sadan at Gopanpally, the largest and one of a kind in the country constructed on a plot measuring over 6 acres at the cost of 12 crores. Although Brahmins are considered close to the BJP, Rao in Telangana has managed to keep the community happy through his welfare schemes. Even today he announced that honorarium given to Vedic scholars will be increased from Rs 2,500 to Rs 5,000. The age criterion for the honorarium will be reduced to 65 years from 75 years. More than 6,000 temples will receive funds of Rs 1,000 a month. Ved Pathshalas will get Rs 2 lakh as annual grants. He also announced a decision to extend fee reimbursement scheme to Brahmin students studying in premier institutions like IITs and IIMs. The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday approved the City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and Sustain 2.0 (CITIIS 2.0), a programme linked to Smart Cities and conceived by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in partnership with foreign agencies. This was announced by Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur after the Cabinet meeting. The foreign agencies involved in the programme will be the French Development Agency (AFD); Kreditanstalt fur Wiederaufbau (KfW), the German state-owned investment and development bank; the European Union (EU), besides the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA). The programme will run for a period of four years, from 2023 till 2027. The programme envisages to support competitively selected projects promoting circular economy with focus on integrated waste management at the city level, climate-oriented reform actions at the State level, and institutional strengthening and knowledge dissemination at the national level. The funding for the programme would include a loan of Rs 1760 crore (EUR 200 million) from AFD and KfW (EUR 100 million each) and a technical assistance grant of Rs 106 cr. (EUR 12 million) from the EU. CITIIS 2.0 aims to leverage and scale up the learnings and successes of CITIIS 1.0. CITIIS 1.0 was launched jointly in 2018 by MoHUA, AFD, EU, and NIUA, with a total outlay of Rs 933 crore (EUR 106 million). It is running in 12 cities with projects for smart schools, green mobility corridors and bio-diversity parks. Following the CITIIS 1.0 model, the CITIIS 2.0 has three major components for making cities healthy and beautiful, with an expenditure of Rs 1866 crore in 18 cities in the first component. Financial and technical support will be given in this part for developing projects focused on building climate resilience, adaptation and mitigation through competitively selected projects. In the second part, all States and UTs will be eligible for support on demand basis. The States will be provided support to set-up/strengthen their existing State climate centres/Climate cells/ equivalents, create State and city level Climate Data Observatories, facilitate climate-data driven planning, develop climate action plans and build capacities of municipal functionaries. In the third component, there will be interventions at all three levels; Centre, State and City to further climate governance in urban India through institutional strengthening. The programme will supplement climate actions of the Government of India through its ongoing National programs (National Mission on Sustainable Habitat, AMRUT 2.0, Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 and Smart Cities Mission), as well as contributing positively to Indias Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) and Conference of the Parties (COP26) commitments. President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has ratified amendments to the Egyptian Nationality Law of 1975, allowing foreign minors born in Egypt to either a man or a woman born in the country or with an Egyptian origin to acquire citizenship. The amendments, approved by the House of Representatives, were published in the official gazette on Wednesday. The amendments allow foreign adults born in Egypt to either a father or mother of Egyptian origins to acquire Egyptian citizenship after establishing regular residence there. They also allow foreign minors born in Egypt to either a foreign man or a foreign woman born in Egypt and hailed from an Arab-speaking or Muslim country to acquire Egyptian citizenship. Buying property The new amendments also allow foreigners who purchase private property to apply for Egyptian citizenship. Prior to these changes in the law, foreigners were only allowed to apply for Egyptian citizenship by purchasing state-owned property or depositing certain amounts in US dollars in the country. Search Keywords: Short link: In a big jolt to the Muslim side, the Allahabad High Court on Wednesday rejected a plea opposing hearing in the Varanasi district court on regular worship of the Shringar Gauri related to the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi case. The single bench of the Allahabad High Court comprising Justice J J Munir rejected the revision petition filed by the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee. The high court had reserved the judgement on December 23,2022 after the completion of the arguments. Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee had challenged the decision of District Judge Varanasi.The Muslim side has argued that the civil suit is not maintainable under the Places of Worship Act of 1991 and the Central Waqf Act of 1995. In the Shringar Gauri case, a civil suit was filed by Rakhi Singh of the Hindu side and 9 others in the Varanasi court demanding regular worship found at the Gyanvapi premises. After the verdict now the Varanasi district Judge will continue its hearing civil suit. During the three month long arguement, the Muslim side argued that the Places of Worship Act prohibited regular worship because it will disturb the religious nature of the place which cannot be done legally. Therefore, regular worship should not be allowed here. They also said that the civil suit should be declared time-barred on the basis of the law of limitation. It is said that an attempt has been made to interfere with the rights of the opposite party by cleverly filing a civil suit demanding the right to worship due to which the 1991 law will be violated. Therefore, the suit filed for regular worship of Shringar Gauri in the district court is not maintainable. Hari Shanker Jain, pleading for the civil suit stressed that Hindus have been worshiping Shringar Gauri, Hanuman and Kriti Vaseshwar, according to mythological evidence well before August 15, 1947. Therefore, the Places of Worship Act of 1991 would not be applicable in this case. He said that after the idol is consecrated in the temple, the ownership of that land vests in the idol. In Hindu law, the indirect idol continues to exist even after the temple is destroyed. He said that Aurangzeb himself demolished the Bhu Vishweshwar Nath temple and the wall of the temple has been given the shape of a mosque. Jain pleaded that the place cannot be considered a mosque under Islamic law and namaz is not accepted at the disputed site. Citing the Deen Mohammad case of 1937, Jain said that in this case only the plaintiff was allowed to offer Namaz. The Muslim community is not allowed to offer Namaz. He said that where there are three domes today, Shringar Gauri, Hanuman and Kritivas temples were there. He also presented a map and said that no Islamic historian has mentioned the Gyanvapi mosque. It has become clear that the Alamgir mosque is located three kilometers away from the disputed site. Many temples were demolished to build mosques during that period. Presenting the picture of the disputed structure, he said it is clearly visible that the temple has been demolished and given the shape of a mosque. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the Central government for Rs 1,000 crore for Green Field Airport Mandi in the district Mandi. Sukhu called on Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi late on Tuesday evening and requested for grants of Rs 1,000 crore and Rs 400 crore for Greenfield Airport in Mandi and the expansion of Kangra airport, respectively as per the recommendations of 15th Finance Commission. The chief minister also requested her to review the decision to impose a limit on new loans under externally aided projects and added that reconsidering this decision would help in development in various sectors. He further urged for Centres intervention to expedite the signing of loan agreements for six proposals recommended by the Department of Economic Affairs for external funding. The chief minister also urged her to review the decision to reduce the additional borrowing limit of state equal to the amount of National Pension Scheme (NPS) contribution for the current financial year. Keeping in view the importance of National security, the chief minister called for declaring Bhanupali-Bilaspur-Leh rail project as hundred percent centrally funded or explore a revenue-sharing mechanism for the stretch upto Beri. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is likely to meet his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang and Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov during his visit to South Africa this week to attend the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) foreign ministers meeting to be held at Capetown. Apart from South Africa, Jaishankar, who leaves here tomorrow, will also visit Namibia during his six-day foreign visit. In his meeting with his Chinese foreign minister, Jaishankar is expected to reiterate Indias stand that the ongoing India-China military stand-off at eastern Ladakh must be amicably resolved peacefully as a first step towards the normalisation of bilateral ties. The Ministry of External Affairs said the foreign minister will visit South Africa from 1-3 June 2023 to participate in the BRICS meeting. Besides attending the meeting, he will hold bilateral meetings with other foreign ministers. He will also call on the President of South Africa and have an interaction with the Indian diaspora in Capetown. Thereafter, Jaishankar will visit Namibia from 4-6 June. This will be the first visit by an External Affairs Minister of India to Namibia. During the visit, he will call on the top leadership of the country and also meet with other ministers. Jaishankar will also co-chair the inaugural session of the joint commission meeting with the Namibian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. He will also interact with the Indian diaspora based in Namibia. Jaishankars visit to South Africa and Namibia is expected to further strengthen Indias strong bilateral relations with these two countries, the MEA said. Worried by the constant killing back home, Manipur Tribal Forum(MTF) invited media for an interaction to draw attention towards the burning Manipur. The Delhi Chapter informed that its counterpart in Manipur met with the visiting Union Home Minister Amit Shah and handed over their charter of demand. MTF delegation requested the Union Home Minister for an effective intervention to control this ethnic violence while they met at the Assam Rifles office on Tuesday. Representatives of our Manipur chapter met with the Union Home Minister. They have put forward the request that a Judicial injury commission be announced which should be headed by a retired Supreme Court Chief Justice , said convener of Manipur Tribal Forum, Delhi Chapter Vumsuan Naulak Further, he informed that the delegation raised demands that selected cases be taken up by CBI with no involvement of state officers. Compensation for loss of life and property to be transferred through Direct Bank transfer scheme. Naulak, also allegedly claimed that the state government of Manipur initiated a targeted Combing Operations in the tribal dominated areas. He told the Statesman, There are tribal youth who have been wrongly charged as insurgents and terrorists. Our delegation in Manipur demanded the release of these people. The MTF demanded that the mortal remains of the tribals killed kept at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences and Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences(JNIMS), Imphal should be intact and identification by the family members should be allowed. Meanwhile speaking to The Statesman, Kallol Bhowmick, works for Niyomiya Barta says, There are several historical Churches and structures that have been burned down in the past few days. There is huge damage done in the past weeks. It needs to stop now. The Union Home Ministers visit is very important and hopefully it will have the desired impact. There is an age-old conflict between the Kuki and Meitei community in the region. Meitei is the Hindu group that has maximum representation in the assembly. The Meitei communitys support allowed the Bharatiya Janata Party to form a government. Kuki follows Christianity. The Kukis live in the hills of Manipur while Meitei communities live in the plains of the region. The Meitei community wants to be included in the scheduled tribe category while Kuki Community of Manipur has been in the scheduled tribe category since 1950. This difference is becoming wider by the day. And this has been the bone of contention and turned the situation volatile. Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the Congress and other parties for boycotting the inauguration of the new Parliament building calling it an insult to the sentiments of people of the country and the nation. He said the 20 parties behind the boycott were engaging themselves in Rajnitik kichad uchalne mein (political mudslinging). Addressing a BJP rally at Kayad Vishramsthali at Ajmer in Rajasthan, Narendra Modi said, Such opportunities and moments come once in life after many generations, many years, but the Congress wasted this moment for its self-serving opposition. It has insulted the sentiments of the country and 60,000 labourers who built it. Earlier, the prime minister, after landing by an army chopper at Pushkar, went straight to Brahma Temple to pray and walked around the temple; the sole temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in India, and interacted with senior priests. Speaking at the rally, the prime minister said, It goes to the credit of Congress arrogance that a garib ka beta (son of poor) stood in front of them. The party was sad that its hegemony could not continue. They are angry because the poor son is questioning their corruption and nepotism, he said. Sounding bugle for the upcoming assembly election in Rajasthan, Modi directly attacked the Gehlot Government alleging that its MLAs, ministers and even the chief minister were busy fighting with each other indifferent to the needs of the public for the last five years. The crime (in the state) has reached to its peak, people are not able to celebrate festivals peacefully, and are scared of clashes erupting every now and then. Here, Congress is very kind to terrorists; it is immersed in the appeasement of terrorists. Women and daughters, Dalits, minorities and labourers are not safe while criminals have field day, he alleged. Speaking the truth, the Congress in the country and in Rajasthan has no programme nor does it have any agenda. It has evolved a new formula of making jhuti guarantee (false guarantee) to the public at the time of elections, the PM said, asking whether the Gehlot Government fulfilled its promise to waive off farmers loans in ten days after taking over the government in 2018. Asking the audience whether they got any of the guarantees fulfilled in the last five years in the Congress rule, Modi said, Had the Congress fulfilled a single promise in its ruling period, the country or the Congress ruled states would have gone bankrupt. Hence the Congress has no such vision and policy for the development of the country. But, in nine years we have rejuvenated the country. We have developed modern infrastructure, railway, airports, and national highways that are not less than any other developed nation. In times to come, India will be the biggest manufacturing hub in the world. India will be one of the biggest importers and one of the best tourist destinations in the world, he claimed. In an emotionally-charged tone, the prime minister addressed the mammoth rally, saying, After working for nine years without stop, I am getting tired. I have 140 crore people for family, they are my God. I will always be connected to you for your bright future. Recalling late Rajiv Gandhis tenure, Modi recalled the former prime minister had said only one of every ten rupees spent by the government reaches the intended beneficiaries. On the occasion, the prime minister listed his governments policies saying the benefits of the policies reached to the people of Rajasthan too. After a lull for few years, child labourers have again been rescued in Gujarat, this time from a shop in the Naroda area here. In December 2019, as many as 135 child labourers were rescued from different establishments in Surat with the initiative of an NGO Bachpan Bachaao Andolan. Apart from shops, small eateries and textile units, child labourers are employed in cotton fields, marble polishing units and the jewellery trade in Gujarat. Child labourers in roadside eating joints is so common in the state that a child rights group had undertaken a march in 2014 urging people not to patronise any restaurant that engaged child labour. However, there was not much response to the campaign. The raid and rescue operation on Tuesday was conducted by Prayas, an NGO, in association with local police and district Child Protection unit. During a recce of the area, two underage boys were found to be working at a general store in the Naroda area. When the rescue team reached the store, its owner claimed he pays them Rs 3,300 per month each and it is better to earn something than roam around during summer vacation. Two rescued boys have been sent to a children home run by the district Child Welfare Committee, Prayas volunteer Indrjeetsinh Chauhan told The Statesman. The shop owner has been booked under various Sections of the Child Labour Act. The Dakshina Kannada district of Bengaluru has become a target of numerous raids by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The raids by the NIA on Wednesday are related to an alleged plot by the outlawed group Popular Front of India (PFI) to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Patna in July 2022. In addition, the NIA detained four individuals from the villages of Puttur, Kurnadka, Taripadpu, and Kumbra. Mohammed Haris Kumbra, Sajjad Hussain Kodimbadi, Faizal Ahmed Tarigudde, and Samshuddin Kurnadka have been named as the suspects. In its remand notice issued against PFI member Shafeeque Payeth last year, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said that the PFI had planned to assassinate PM Modi during his visit to Patna on July 12, 2022. The PFI was allegedly planning terror modules and other attacks, according to the ED.16 locations are being searched by NIA agents, including the Dakshina Kannada districts Beltangadi, Puttur, Bantwala, Uppinangadi, and Venura. The raids are part of an investigation into the outlawed organizations plan to assassinate Prime Minister Modi at a rally in Bihar on July 12, 2022. Officials are using the assistance of the local police to verify documents at 16 locations, according to the sources. Homes, offices, and medical facilities connected to PFI activists were concurrently searched in Mangaluru, Puttur, Beltangady, Uppinangady, Venur, and Bantwal.PFI is said to have gotten funding from Gulf nations to plan terrorist attacks in India. The PFI hawala money network in South India is the target of the raids, which aim to disrupt it. Following raids in the Phulwari Sharif area last year in 2022, five persons were detained in Patna for engaging in anti-national activities. Several damaging documents, including PFIs Mission 2047, which is said to have had Prime Minister Narendra Modi on its radar, were also recovered as a result of the raids. PFI is said to have gotten funding from Gulf nations to plan terrorist attacks in India. The PFI hawala money network in South India is the target of the raids, which aim to disrupt it. Following raids in the Phulwari Sharif area last year in 2022, five persons were detained in Patna for engaging in anti-national activities. Several damaging documents, including PFIs Mission 2047, which is said to have had Prime Minister Narendra Modi on its radar, were also recovered as a result of the raids. A team of NIA officials travelled to the Dakshina Kannada area on the trail of an inquiry because, according to NIA sources, there may be a potential that their network is present in the Dakshin Kannada district. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday attacked Congress saying it had followed a policy of misguiding and depriving the poor and noted that the nine years of BJP-led government have been dedicated to service to citizens and good governance. Addressing a public meeting here, PM Modi said Indias achievements today were being praised across the world and alleged that people suffered before 2014 during the rule of Congress-led government. Congress has cheated even the heroes. It is Congress that has been betraying our ex-servicemen in the name of One Rank One Pension. The BJP government not only implemented One Rank One Pension but also gave arrears to ex-servicemen, the Prime Minister said. Before 2014, people of the country were protesting against corruption, terrorist attacks used to take place, the Congress government was afraid to build roads on the border, there was a superpower above the PM and Congress givernment was functioning through remote control. However, you changed everything with your one vote in 2014. The entire world is talking about the development of India now, he added. He alleged that the Congress policy has been to misguide the poor, make them suffer. The rally in Ajmer district was the first major programme of BJPs campaign to reach out to people to mark nine years in the government at the Centre. PM Modi visited Pushkar Before coming to Ajmer. In our scriptures, Lord Brahma has been called the creator of the universe. With Lord Brahmas blessings, an era of new creation is going on in India. BJP-led NDA government in the Centre has completed nine years. These nine years have been dedicated to service to citizens, good governance and the welfare of the poor, PM Modi said. This was PM Modis sixth programme in Rajasthan in the last eight months. Rajasthan will go the polls later this year. Punjab Police have busted an extortion racket backed by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi with the arrest of its three operatives, said Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav on Wednesday. Those arrested have been identified as Rohit Bharadwaj alias Rimmi of Zirakpur, Mohit Bharadwaj of Chandigarh and Arjun Thakur of Chandigarh. Yadav said that following a detailed investigation and intelligence-gathering in this case, state Special Operation Cell, Mohali had initiated swift and coordinated action which led to the arrest of these three persons found involved in operating an extortion racket. The police teams have also recovered cash worth Rs 14.78 lakh from the possession of accused Rohit Bhardwaj alias Rimmi and other incriminating evidence from the mobile phones recovered from accused persons. Divulging details about modus-operandi, the DGP said that the arrested persons were using online gambling platform Diamond Exchange to lure victims by convincing them to join online gaming and betting on a nominal fee to gain great profits. After winning some rewards, certainly, the victim would start to to lose money in betting and then, accused persons would offer money on credit starting from lakhs, he said, adding that once the victim avail the credit, accused persons used to charge hefty interest on the amount, which could sometimes accumulated to crores of rupees. The DGP said when the victim shows unwillingness to return the money, the offenders would make threatening calls to them through their gangster associates sitting in Jail and abroad. During investigation, police teams have verified various payment gateways and the bank accounts to which the money was transferred, he said, adding that proceedings to freeze the bank accounts linked to the activities of the accused have been initiated. Investigations are on to identify the owner of the fraudulent website and location from where they are operating them, he said. The accused persons are believed to have played instrumental roles in executing extortion activities at the behest of Lawrence Bishnoi Gang from NightClub, Bar owners and businessmen in Mohali and Chandigarh. Meanwhile, Punjab Police on Wednesday launched a state-wide operation OPS Clean aimed at keeping a tab on activities of persons involved in smuggling of commercial quantities of drugs. As many as 650 Police teams, involving over 5500 police personnel, raided 2247 locations and conducted searches at 2125 houses of persons having involvement in drug smuggling cases. The Police teams have recovered 1.8kg heroin, 82 kilogram (kg) poppy husk, 1kg opium, Rs 5.35 lakh drug money and four weapons, besides recovering illicit liquor, lahan (raw material used to make liquor) and vehicles after registering 48 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. Police teams have also seized 78 mobile phones, which will be sent for forensic examination. A fresh row erupted on Wednesday between the Congress and the BJP-led government after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi made remarks at an event in San Francisco on Muslims in India and on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Rahul, who is on a ten-day visit to the United states, said what was happening to the Muslims in India, happened to the Dalits in the 1980s and that other minorities were also feeling the same. Incidentally, his visit to the US comes three weeks before the PMs visit as a guest of US President Joe Biden. It is being felt by the Muslims most directly because it is done most directly to them. But in fact, it is done to all communities. The way you (Muslims) are feeling attacked, I can guarantee Sikhs, Christians, Dalits, and tribals are feeling the same. You cant cut hatred with hatred, but only with love and affection, the Congress leader said responding to a question concerning the Muslims in India from the Bay Area Muslim community at a Mohabbat Ki Dukaan event in San Francisco. Rahul also stated that some people were absolutely convinced that they knew everything and could explain history to historians, science to scientists and warfare to the army. The world is too big and complicated for any person to know everything. That is the diseaseThere is a group of people in India who are absolutely convinced they know everything. They think they know even more than God. They can sit with God and explain to him whats going on. And of course, our prime minister is one such specimen. If you sat Modiji with God, he will explain to God how the universe works and God will get confused about what I have created, the Congress leader said. The comments drew sharp reaction from the ruling dispensation with Union Information & Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur accusing Rahul of insulting India during his visits abroad. During his foreign visits, Rahul Gandhi insults India, which is unacceptable. He wants to insult PM Modi but ends up insulting India, questioning Indias progress. He is trying to tarnish India at a time when the world is acknowledging our growing stature, he said. Thakur noted that the PM met almost 24 PMs and presidents from different countries and held over 50 meetings during his recent foreign visit. Several world leaders were saying that Modi was the most popular leader. The Australian PM said PM Modi is the Boss but Rahul could not digest this, he added. The Union minister also targeted Rahul over his remarks that what was happening to the Muslims in India today, happened to Dalits in the 1980s. He recalled that Congress was in power in Uttar Pradesh as well as the Centre for the most part of the eighties. The period that Rahul Gandhi is talking aboutIn the 1980s, Dalits and SC families were oppressed when Congress was in power in the country and also in Uttar Pradesh. Perhaps he wanted to go out and tell that the Dalits and the minorities were oppressed under Congress rule and Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas is taking place under the BJP, Thakur said. Iran has significantly increased its stockpile of enriched uranium in recent months, continuing its nuclear escalation, a confidential report by the UN nuclear watchdog on Wednesday seen by AFP said. The agency, however, noted progress in its cooperation with Iran and has decided to close the file on the presence of nuclear material at one of three undeclared sites, an issue which has poisoned relations between the two parties. The reports came days before the board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is due to meet to review progress in addressing the watchdog's remaining concerns. The nuclear watchdog said in its report that Iran's estimated stockpile of enriched uranium had reached more than 23 times the limit set out in the landmark 2015 accord between Tehran and world powers. As of 13 May, Iran's total enriched uranium stockpile was estimated at 4,744.5 kilograms (10,459 pounds). The limit in the 2015 deal was 202.8 kilograms. The report also said that Iran is continuing its enrichment of uranium to levels higher than the 3.67 percent limit in the deal. Efforts to revive the Iran nuclear deal -- which was left in tatters by the unilateral withdrawal of the United States in 2018 -- have currently stalled. The stockpile of uranium enriched up to 20 percent is now believed to be 470.9 kilograms -- up 36.2 kg since the last report in February -- while the amount enriched up to 60 percent stands at 114.1 kilograms, an increase of 26.6 kg. Enrichment levels of around 90 percent are required for use in a nuclear weapon. In a separate report, the IAEA said it has decided to close the file relating to the presence of nuclear material at one undeclared site after receiving a "possible explanation" from Iran. The watchdog "has no additional questions... and the matter is no longer outstanding at this stage", the report said of the site at Marivan in Abedeh county. The IAEA had reported the discovery of traces of radioactive material at three sites not declared by Iran, in a blow to efforts to restore the 2015 deal. The Marivan site in the southern province of Fars is the first to be addressed under a work plan agreed by Iran and the IAEA in March. The other two sites are Varamin and Turquzabad. Iran has always denied any ambition to develop a nuclear weapons capability, insisting its activities are entirely peaceful. Search Keywords: Short link: The Kerala government on Wednesday decided to give an amount of Rs 25 lakh to the family of Dr Vandana Das, who was stabbed to death by a police detainee brought for medical treatment by the police at the Government Taluk hospital Kottarakkara in Kollam district. The government also decided to give Rs 25 lakh to the family of fire rescue officer J S Ranjith who died while fighting a blaze at a warehouse of the Kerala State Medical Corporation Ltd (KSMCL) last week. An amount of Rs 10 lakh will be given to N K Shaiby, wife of S R Rajesh Kumar, who died falling into a water tank while working as a temporary pump operator at the Kavalippuzha Pump House coming under Kaduthuruthy sub division, as one-time financial assistance. The compensation for Vandana Dass family will be provided from the Chief Ministers Relief Fund. While the fire rescue officer Renjiths family will receive financial assistance from the Medical Services Corporations funds, S R Rajesh Kumars wife will get the compensation from the water authoritys own fund. An advocate has recently moved a plea in the Kerala High Court seeking Rs one crore compensation for Dr. Vandana Dass family. In a shocking incident, Vandana Das, a 22-year-old doctor, was stabbed to death by a police detainee who was brought for medical treatment by the police at the Government Taluk Hospital Kottarakkara in Keralas Kollam district on 10 May early morning. The accused fatally stabbed the lady doctor at the Kottarakkara government hospital at around 4 am on10 May . Vandan Das succumbed to her injuries at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram later. Ranjith (32) died on 23 May when a portion of the fire-hit KMSCL warehouse collapsed over him while trying to put out the fire Rajesh Kumar died after falling into a water tank while working at the Kavalipuzha pump house under Kattururthi subdivision of Kerala Water Authority. Four people of a family including two children were killed on Wednesday after being struck and dragged by a high-speed SUV for 100 metres in Lucknow, informed police. The incident happened near the Gulchain temple in Aliganj, Lucknow. The SUV allegedly hit the scooty after which the couple and their two children got stuck under the car. But, the car driver didnt stop the vehicle and the four victims were dragged on for around 100 metres, the police said. As per the locals, the car was coming from Tedhi Puliya district and hit the scooty before the temple. The locals further alleged that the car driver didnt stop despite realising the fact scooty was trapped under the SUV and sparks coming out due to the dragging of the scooty. All four were taken to the trauma centre of King Georges Medical University (KGMU) where all of them were declared dead. The deceased man has been identified as Ram Singh (35). His wife was 32 years old, while the two children were aged 10 and 7 years respectively, the police said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed grief and condolences over the loss of lives in the accident. Further details are awaited. Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chief Swati Maliwal on Wednesday issued summons to DCP New Delhi in the matter of revealing identity of minor survivor who accused BJP MP and Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment. Delhi Commission for Women Chairperson Swati Maliwal has issued summons to DCP New Delhi for action taken report in the matter of disclosure of the identity of the minor survivor. Some women wrestlers, including a minor girl, have alleged that Singh has sexually harassed them. In this regard two separate FIRs have been registered at PS Connaught Place including one under POCSO Act. However, the accused is yet to be arrested in the matter. Now, a video is being circulated on social media wherein a person claiming to be the uncle of the minor survivor has revealed the identity of the survivor which is a criminal offence as per the POCSO Act. DCW chief has noted that the accused in the matter Brij Bhushan Singh is highly influential and has not been arrested till date. The Supreme Court, considering the sensitivity of the case, and direct threat to the survivors, especially the minor one, had directed the police to provide them security, the DCW said in a statement. In this regard, the DCW chief has issued summons to the Deputy Commissioner of Police of New Delhi District seeking registration of FIR in the matter. The Commission has asked Delhi Police to provide a copy of the FIR along with details of the accused arrested in the matter. The Commission has also asked Delhi Police to inform the reasons for not arresting the main accused Brij Bhushan Singh till date. Further, the Commission has asked Delhi Police to provide a copy of the enquiry report investigating whether the accused Brij Bhushan Singh is in any way linked to the act of revealing the identity of minor survivor. The DCW chief has asked DCP, New Delhi to appear before the Commission on June 2 along with an action taken report in the matter, the DCW said in the statement. Maliwal said, It is shocking that the survivor who is under constant threat and the Supreme Court has provided her security, her identity is being revealed by a person and Delhi Police is not doing anything about it. Revealing the identity of a survivor in a case registered under POCSO Act is also a criminal offence. In such a scenario, the act of revealing the minor survivors identity must be dealt with seriously. Delhi Police must register an FIR against the accused and he should be arrested. Further, Delhi Police should arrest the main accused Brij Bhushan Singh in the matter and should investigate his role in revealing the identity of the minor survivor. The women wrestlers had approached the Supreme Court and two FIRs were registered on April 28, one under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for allegedly sexually harassing a minor girl and another for sexual harassment of other complainants against WFI chief. The UN Security Council (UNSC) has adopted a resolution to extend the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) for another year until May 31, 2024, while retaining its core tasks. Resolution 2682, which won the unanimous support of the 15-member Security Council, requested that the UN Secretary-Generals special representative for Iraq and UNAMI priorities the provision of advice, support and assistance to the government and people of Iraq on advancing inclusive, political dialogue and national community-level reconciliation, Xinhua news agency reported. The Council also requested the special representative and UNAMI to further advise and assist the government of Iraq in strengthening electoral preparation and processes to ensure free and fair elections. Meanwhile, the Security Council requested the special representative and UNAMI to promote, support and facilitate, in coordination with the Iraqi government, the timely, voluntary and dignified return or local integration of internally displaced persons and displaced Iraqis in Syria. The resolution further requested the UN secretary-general to conduct and provide the Security Council, no later than March 31, 2024, with an independent strategic review of UNAMI, in consultation with the Iraqi government and other sides, assessing current threats to Iraqs peace and security, as well as the continued relevance of UNAMIs tasks and priorities. UNAMI is a political mission established by the Security Council in 2003 at the request of the Iraqi government in the wake of the invasion of by a US-led coalition. The commander of the US Armys Central Command (CENTCOM) General Michael Kurilla landed in Israel on Tuesday morning for a visit as part of the IDFs military exercise Fist Punch. The visit, which will last about three days, will begin with a tour of Unit 504, the Human Intelligence Unit of the IDFs Intelligence Division. The general participated in a situation assessment that took place at the Kriya, The IDF command center as part of the Fist Punch exercise, which examines the IDFs readiness for combat in several arenas at the same time. In addition, IDF commanders deepened with innovative combat methods and adapted military capabilities with an emphasis on the operational partnership with the US Army. Afterwards, the IDF Chief of Staff and the CENTCOM commander held a personal working meeting. The IDF said that it and the US Army will continue to deepen the operational relationship out of a shared commitment to maintaining the security of the region. City_news breaking featured Legault orders that all non-refugee immigrants know French Joel Goldenberg / CPAC From left, Immigration Minister Christine Frechette, Premier Francois Legault and Language Minister Jean-Francois Roberge at the May 25 press conference. Quebec will be requiring non-refugee immigrants to know French, Premier Francois Legault announced at a press conference Thursday May 25. The only exceptions will include those immigrants who have extraordinary talents and rare and unique expertise that could contribute to Quebecs economic prosperity. As Premier of Quebec, my first responsibility is to defend our language and our identity, Legault said. As we have seen for several years, French is in decline in Quebec. Since 2018, our government has acted to protect our language, more than other successive governments since the adoption of Bill 101 under the Levesque government. But if we want to reverse the trend, we must go further. By 2026, our goal is to have almost entirely Francophone economic immigration. We all have a duty, as Quebecers, to speak French, to transmit our culture on a daily basis, and to be proud of it. Immigration Minister Christine Frechette said that never before has a government made it mandatory to know French in order to apply for economic immigration to Quebec. The announced regulatory amendments will require that a knowledge of French will henceforth be required in all economic immigration programs in Quebec. These measures are intended to encourage the arrival of people who can fully integrate into the Quebec nation and participate in community life in French. The regulatory amendments will also make it possible to improve the operation of the various economic immigration programs in order, in particular, to ensure a better response to labour needs in a host of key sectors of the economy and regions, a Quebec government statement adds. The requirements include: A minimum knowledge of oral French will now be required for adults wishing to be selected in all economic immigration programs. The government is thus ensuring that people who settle in Quebec will be able to communicate in French, both at work and in other aspects of daily life. A new permanent immigration program for skilled workers, the Skilled Worker Selection Program, will be implemented to better take into account the diverse needs of Quebec. This new program offers four components to make it easier to select all types of workers in sectors that need a workforce. For three of these sectors, knowledge of French will be required of principal applicants and their accompanying spouses. It will thus allow a better alignment with the labour needs of Quebec and its regions and a better integration of immigrants into community life. The programs for investors, entrepreneurs and self-employed workers will also be revised in order, in particular, to require knowledge of oral French for principal applicants. The proportion of people selected in these programs who master French is currently very low. This requirement will promote better integration of immigrants into the business community. They will thus be able to better contribute to the economic development of Quebec and participate in Quebec society. Changes will also be made in the category of family reunification in order to make it compulsory for the guarantor to submit a reception and integration plan in which he will undertake in particular to support the learning of French for the person [between 18 and 55 years old being hosted]. After June 7, the date of the pre-publication of the draft regulatory changes in the Gazette officielle du Quebec, the public will have 45 days to submit comments. A consultation will be then be held at dates to be announced. joel@thesuburban.com Saint-Laurent, CA (H4T1V6) Today More clouds than sun. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 76F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Cloudy early with some clearing expected late. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low around 55F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Saint-Laurent, CA (H4T1V6) Today More clouds than sun. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 76F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low around 55F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan have decided to upgrade immediately diplomatic relations between the two countries and exchange ambassadors, according to a statement by the Egyptian presidential spokesperson. This came during a phone call on Monday in which El-Sisi congratulated Erdogan on being re-elected for a new presidential term, the statement added, noting that the Turkish president expressed in turn "his appreciation for this kind gesture from the president." During the phone call, both presidents affirmed the depth of the historical ties that bind the two countries and peoples and agreed to strengthen the relations between Egypt and Turkey and promote cooperation between them, the spokesperson added. Over the past year, Cairo and Ankara held rounds of talks at the ministerial level in a bid to normalise relations after both countries broke off diplomatic relations in 2013. In April, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry received his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu in Cairo. In a joint press conference, Shoukry announced that Egypt and Turkey have agreed on a timeframe for upgrading diplomatic relations. During the same press conference, Cavusoglu also announced that the Egyptian and Turkish sides coordinated to hold a meeting between El-Sisi and Erdogan, noting that a timetable for mutual ambassadorial appointments with Egypt will be announced soon. Search Keywords: Short link: Have an interesting bit of news youd like to see mentioned in the Along the Way column? Email it to Natasha Connolly at news@thesunchronicle.com. PARIS (AP) Ten noted thinkers, writers and filmmakers, including director Ken Loach and Nobel literature laureate Annie Ernaux, signed an open letter published Tuesday, calling on the president of Algeria to free a jailed journalist they said was punished for refusing to bow to the government line. In the letter to President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, published in the French daily Le Monde, the luminaries said that prominent journalist Ihsane El Kadi was in prison because he refuses to submit to the pressures of those who govern the country and wanted to make him a counterfeit journalist. An Algiers court sentenced the 64-year-old El Kadi on April 2 to five years in prison with two years suspended after his conviction on charges of receiving foreign funding for his two media outlets, Radio M and the online news site Maghreb Emergent. The outspoken El Kadi is widely considered a rare independent voice within the press, and his outlets the lone spaces to defy a tightening noose around press freedom in Algeria. His media outlets were ordered shut down. El Kadi was initially detained at his home in December and has remained jailed since then. The signatories of the exceptionally bold letter appealed for El Kadis freedom by referring to the North African countrys brutal war with France for independence, won in 1962 and today the near-sacred basis on which Algeria is built. More than a country, Algeria is an idea. A stubborn idea of liberation ... It is the proof that victory over injustice is possible, the letter said. Today, this great country is closing like a redoubtable trap on political opponents and citizens who dare dream of a veritable state of law. Among others signing the letter were Noam Chomsky and Indian writer Arundhati Roy. An earlier appeal by Reporters Without Borders, made during a ceremony on International Press Day, failed. Tebboune simply reminded a representative who gave him a letter that El Kadi Ihasane is not jailed as a journalist, but as the head of a press group financed with foreign funds. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate ALTON The Clark Bridge is getting a check-up. Engineers from a private firm on Tuesday used a machine that latches around the cables of the Clark Bridge to inspect the nearly 30-year-old structure. The assessment device is self-propelled. The Illinois Department of Transportation said the inspections, expected to be completed by Friday, are to examine "connections." The actual steel cables of each yellow piece are a bundle of smaller steel strands inside the plastic yellow tubing. The tubes have been wrapped in portions with a UV protectant tape. The bridge is reduced to one lane in the area of the inspections this week. In January 2024 the iconic structure will turn 30. Egypt's Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and head of the General Intelligence Service Abbas Kamel held separate meetings with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohamed Shtayyeh to bolster support for and alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people. In a press conference held on Wednesday at the New Administrative Capital with his Palestinian counterpart following their talks, Madbouly emphasized Egypt's ongoing efforts to attain calm in the occupied Palestinian territories and revitalize the peace process. Egypt wants to meet the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people in establishing their independent state based on the borders of 4 June 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, he added. Madbouly said that during the talks with his Palestinian counterpart, the necessity of halting unilateral measures that escalate tensions among the Palestinian people was emphasized. Bilateral relations were a significant focus of the extensive talks, encompassing various areas of cooperation outlined in agreements between the Palestinian and Egyptian delegations. These include proposals to increase trade volume, facilitate the access of Egyptian goods and products to the Palestinian market, and strengthen collaboration in sectors such as health, agriculture, education, culture, and electricity linkage. According to the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics (CAPMAS) in 2022, Egypt's exports to Palestine hiked by 72.6 percent in the past year, reaching $284.4 million, up from $164.8 million in 2020. The discussions concluded with the signing of a Protocol of Political Consultations between the Egyptian and Palestinian foreign ministries. The two sides' agriculture ministries also signed a protocol of cooperation in the agricultural field. Intelligence meeting Shtayyeh and Kamel met on Tuesday to discuss the latest developments in Gaza and explore ways to alleviate the suffering of the people there. Key topics included facilitating the movement of Gazan residents through border crossings, providing electricity from Egypt, and advancing Gaza's reconstruction efforts, the Palestinian official news agency WAFA reported. Shtayyeh also highlighted the importance of Egypt's involvement in constructing donor-funded seawater desalination plants in Gaza and sought Egyptian support in activating Palestinian mobile phone networks within Egypt. The Palestinian PM updated Egypt's intelligence chief on recent developments in the Palestinian arena, particularly Israeli violations. He urged the exertion of pressure on Israel to halt recurrent incursions into Palestinian areas, cease colonial settlement construction, end extrajudicial killings, and seize illegal deductions from Palestinian tax revenues. Shtayyeh urged an international initiative to revive the peace process. He expressed gratitude for Egypt's support in backing the Palestinian cause and fostering intra-Palestinian reconciliation. Meeting of Pope Tawadros II and Grand Imam of Al-Azhar During his visit, Shtayyeh met separately with Pope Tawadros II, head of the Coptic Orthodox Church, who emphasized the importance of the Palestinian cause for the Church and called for an end to double standards when addressing the rights and just cause of Palestinians. Shtayyeh also met with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Ahmed El-Tayyeb to discuss the latest developments in East Jerusalem, with discussions including plans to establish more Al-Azhar institutions in Palestine, including one in Jerusalem, to serve the Palestinian people. Interview with Al-Qahera News In an interview with Cairo-based Al-Qahera News, Shtayyeh stressed the critical nature of the current period in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He accused the current radical Israeli government and its predecessors of working to destroy the possibility of establishing a Palestinian state. Shtayyeh highlighted the division and fragmentation of Palestinian territories and Israel's exploitation of Palestinian resources for its own benefit. The Israeli government aims to maintain the inter-palestinian division to push Gaza to be under Egypt's control, completely removing it from the Palestinian geography, he added. "Consultations are underway to launch the national dialogue called for by the Palestinian president, building on similar discussions held in the past among the general secretaries of Palestinian factions, which led to the path of elections. However, it was obstructed by the Israeli occupation who also prevented elections in occupied Jerusalem." He emphasized that the blockade on Jerusalem surpasses the height of the Berlin Wall, and the city of Hebron has been divided into two separate parts. Additionally, the remaining Palestinian territories are fragmented into designated "A, B, and C" areas, with Area "C" under Israeli control, comprising 62 percent of the total area of the West Bank. Furthermore, he highlighted that Israel appropriates 600 million cubic metres of water from Palestine, of which one-third is allocated to Israeli households and sourced from Palestinian territories. Moreover, Israel utilizes Palestinian lands as its second most significant market, following the United States and Europe, making the occupation of Palestinian territories a lucrative enterprise. Shtayyeh arrived in Cairo on Monday on a three-day visit, heading a high-level delegation of ministers and officials including the ministers of foreign affairs, interior, national economy, endowments and religious affairs, health, agriculture, public works, and housing. Palestinian Prime Minister Mohamed Shtayyeh arrived in Cairo on Monday in a three-day official visit on Monday heading a high-level delegation of ministers and officials including the Palestinian ministers of Foreign Affairs, Interior, National Economy, Endowments and Religious Affairs, Health, Agriculture, Public Works and Housing. Search Keywords: Short link: This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate EDWARDSVILLE Illinois' recently approved budget was a key topic Tuesday in Edwardsville for state Sens. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, and Erica Harriss, R-Glen Carbon. Harriss said the "End of Session" town hall event at the club focused on Illinois' recently concluded legislative session, with special attention on the budget. Being in districts that are a little further away from Springfield, what happens there still impacts us, but sometimes there is a little disconnect from what is happening up there," Harriss said. Plummer said events like Tuesdays town hall session are invaluable in gathering feedback from the people he represents. My job isnt to go to Springfield and do what I want to do," he said. "I go to Springfield to represent my constituents. You cant represent your constituents if you dont do events like this. The overarching issue right now is the budget and, as youve gathered from my comments, I find the budget to be very troubling, Plummer said. When youre spending that amount of money and you cant balance the budget, thats a problem. "It doesnt fund our schools appropriately and it doesnt fund our hospitals appropriately," he said. "Its not balanced and it sets us up for a tax increase in the future. Harriss said the state's budget has brought a mixed reaction from her constituents. Clearly the budget is a very big issue and its something Ive talked about before, but I havent been able to have a front-row seat, said Harriss, who is in her first term as a state senator. Some people are happy about the budget because it has things they wanted to be included. Other people are disappointed that weve passed the largest budget in the history of our state. They dont believe that its responsible or balanced. Overall, the legislative session was a mixed bag, by Plummers estimation. There are good things that passed, and I personally passed a bill that increases transparency in terms of vending relationships and how the government interacts with the private sector, Plummer said. We passed some good education bills, but we passed a whole lot of bad stuff, too." Plummer said estate tax law in Illinois is causing people and businesses to leave the state. He added that 105,000 people living in Illinois in 2021 chose to leave the state, amounting to an adjusted gross income loss of $10.9 billion. He also said the tax causes problems for family farms, forcing some to sell off all or part of the farm to pay the tax. Plummer said residents are questioning why Illinois is playing medical costs for non-citizens. He noted the initial $200 million in estimated payments next year has ballooned to $1.1 billion, with continued increases likely. Its gold-plated healthcare and its better than anyone in this room is getting, Plummer said. Its better (for non-citizens) than any one of the other 49 states. Its a program thats going to mushroom in terms of expenses. The two also talked about Illinois' firearms laws and the continuing battle over the weapons ban approved in January. The legislation banned the sale of a series of guns, including the AR-15 and AK-47, as well as the sale of magazines that have more than 15 rounds of ammunition for handguns and more than 10 rounds of ammunition for a long gun. People who legally owned the now-barred guns and magazines ahead of the laws enactment can continue to keep them. The guns, however, must be registered with law enforcement starting next year. On May 17, the U.S. The Supreme Court said Illinois can, for now, keep the law in place. The high court denied an emergency request from people challenging the law. The laws opponents had asked the court to put the law on hold while a court challenge continues. I expect more legislation and were probably OK until Jan. 1, 2024, Plummer said. After that, all bets are off the table. The two also discussed the Invest in Kids programs which provides tax credit scholarships to students attending schools through vouchers. The program offers a 75% income tax credit to individuals and businesses that contribute to qualified Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs). The SGOs then provide scholarships for students whose families meet the income requirements to attend qualified, non-public schools and technical academies in Illinois. Harriss supports the program but said it was cut during the legislative session. The program is fully funded by private donations and is not part of the general revenue fund. It didnt make it across the finish line and its sunsetting at the end of this year, Harriss said. These kids shouldnt be set up for failure in life, added Plummer, who also supports the program. They should be put in a position to better themselves. The senators also discussed utility bills. Harriss said some people in her district have seen bills go up by 90%. She co-sponsored a bill that would have allocated money in the budget to help people pay those bills, but the bill did not pass and the money was not released. Were seeing a massive increase in bills and a decrease in the reliability of the energy grid, said Plummer whose comment was met by laughter. Minutes before Tuesday night's meeting, a power failure struck the Edwardsville Gun Club where it was held. Power was restored at 7:27 p.m., about an hour into the event. Prior to the event, Harriss reflected on her first legislative session as a state senator, comparing it to being a college freshman at a new university. "Youre learning all the buildings and how to get around, she said. Its one thing to know the process of how a bill becomes a law. But its a whole other thing to follow it in real-life action, understanding how it plays out and how those rules work. Im happy to have this first session under my belt and have a better grasp on that. Harriss' district office is at 120 N. Main St, Suite 1B, in Edwardsville; call 618-307-5789 or visit senatorericaharriss.com. Plummer's office is at 310 W. Gallatin St. in Vandalia; call 618-283-3000 or visit senatorjasonplummer.com. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate OSLO, Norway (AP) U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday the time is now for Turkey to drop its objections to Sweden joining NATO but said the Biden administration also believed that Turkey should be provided with upgraded F-16 fighters as soon as possible. Blinken maintained that the administration had not linked the two issues but acknowledged that some U.S. lawmakers had. President Joe Biden implicitly linked the two issues in a phone call to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday. I spoke to Erdogan and he still wants to work on something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted a deal with Sweden. So lets get that done," Biden said. Still, Blinken insisted the two issues were distinct. However, he stressed that the completion of both would dramatically strengthen European security. Both of these are vital, in our judgement, to European security, Blinken told reporters at a joint news conference in the northern Swedish city of Lulea with Swedens Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. We believe that both should go forward as quickly as possible; that is to say Swedens accession and moving forward on the F-16 package more broadly. We believe the time is now, Blinken said. He declined to predict when Turkey and Hungary, the only other NATO member not yet to have ratified Swedens membership, would grant their approval. But, he said, we have no doubt that it can be, it should be, and we expect it to be completed by the time alliance leaders meet in Vilnius, Lithuania in July at an annual summit. Fresh from a strong re-election victory over the weekend, Erdogan may be willing to ease his objections to Swedens membership. Erdogan accuses Sweden of being too soft on groups Ankara considers to be terrorists, and a series of Quran-burning protests in Stockholm angered his religious support base making his tough stance even more popular. Kristersson said the two sides had been in contact since Sundays vote and voiced no hesitancy in speaking about the benefits Sweden would bring to NATO when we join the alliance. Blinken is in Sweden attending a meeting of the U.S.-EU Trade and Technology Council and will travel to Oslo, Norway on Wednesday for a gathering of NATO foreign ministers, before going on to newly admitted alliance member Finland on Friday. Speaking in Oslo ahead of the foreign ministers' meeting, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the goal was to have Sweden inside the grouping before the leaders' summit in July. "There are no guarantees, but its absolutely possible to reach a solution and enable the decision on full membership for Sweden by the Vilnius summit, Stoltenberg said. Illinois taxes rising July 1 After an election cycle freeze on the state's taxes for groceries and gasoline, the two taxes are... Saved by NASCAR: Evangelist among Enjoy Illinois race crowd Kevin Kent was easy to spot Saturday morning at the tailgaiting area of World Wide Technology... Many happy returns: Newcomer LaRocco helps Dragons win in walkoff New Dragon R.J. LaRocco was a late arrival for the season because he was in California... This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate BEIJING (AP) Beijing responded Wednesday to complaints from the United States about a Chinese fighter jets dangerous interception of an American Air Force reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the South China Sea by demanding an end to such flights. The incident adds to military, diplomatic and economic tensions between the countries over U.S. support for self-governing Taiwan, China's refusal to engage in dialogue between their armed forces and Beijing's flying of a suspected spy balloon over the U.S. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters at a daily briefing that China would keep taking measures it deems necessary to safeguard its sovereignty. "The U.S. should immediately stop these dangerous provocations," Mao said. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command called the Chinese plane's actions an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver, adding to complaints that Chinas military has become significantly more aggressive over the past five years, intercepting U.S. aircraft and ships in the region. China says it owns the South China Sea virtually in its entirety, a claim not recognized internationally and directly challenged by nations along its coast including the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia. In a statement Tuesday, the U.S. military said the pilot of the Chinese J-16 fighter jet flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135 conducting routine operations in international airspace last Friday. Military-to-military contacts between the sides have all but evaporated in recent years amid a historic decline in governmental relations, even as trade and personal exchanges remain strong. Further dampening prospects for a reduction in tensions, China said its defense chief will not meet with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when the two men attend a security conference in Singapore over the weekend. Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday that the plane incident showed why it is vital for the U.S. and China to maintain dialogue at a senior level in order to prevent miscommunication and avoid miscalculations that could lead to conflict. He said it was regrettable that Beijing had rejected Austins request for a meeting with the Chinese defense minister. I think it only underscores why it is so important that we have regular, open lines of communication, including by the way between our defense ministers," Blinken said at a news conference at the end of an EU-US trade and technology meeting in Lulea, Sweden. As weve said repeatedly, while we have a real competition with China, we also want to make sure that doesnt veer into conflict and the most important starting point for that are regular lines of communication," he said. China has said the U.S. is entirely responsible for the breakdown in communications, but has not publicly given a reason. With its People's Liberation Army as the world's largest standing military, which answers directly to the ruling Communist Party, China frequently challenges military aircraft from the U.S. and its allies in the South and East China Seas, and the Taiwan Strait connecting the two. Such behavior led to a 2001 in-air collision between a Chinese fighter and U.S. Navy surveillance plane in which the Chinese plane was lost and pilot killed. In Tuesday's statement, the Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, and expects all other countries to do the same. ___ Associated Press writer Matthew Lee in Oslo, Norway, contributed to this report. BEIJING (AP) Chinas ruling Communist Party has warned of the risks posed by advances in artificial intelligence while calling for heightened national security measures. The statement issued after a meeting Tuesday chaired by party leader and President Xi Jinping underscores the tension between the government's determination to seize global leadership in cutting-edge technology and concerns about the possible social and political harms of such technologies. It also followed a warning by scientists and tech industry leaders in the U.S., including high-level executives at Microsoft and Google, about the perils that artificial intelligence poses to humankind. The meeting in Beijing discussed the need for dedicated efforts to safeguard political security and improve the security governance of internet data and artificial intelligence," the official Xinhua News Agency said. It was stressed at the meeting that the complexity and severity of national security problems faced by our country have increased dramatically. The national security front must build up strategic self-confidence, have enough confidence to secure victory, and be keenly aware of its own strengths and advantages, Xinhua said. We must be prepared for worst-case and extreme scenarios, and be ready to withstand the major test of high winds, choppy waters and even dangerous storms, it said. Xi, who is China's head of state, commander of the military and chair of the partys National Security Commission, called at the meeting for staying keenly aware of the complicated and challenging circumstances facing national security. China needs a "new pattern of development with a new security architecture, Xinhua reported Xi as saying. China already dedicates vast resources to suppressing any perceived political threats to the partys dominance, with spending on the police and security personnel exceeding that devoted to the military. While it relentlessly censors in-person protests and online criticism, citizens have continued to express dissatisfaction with policies, most recently the draconian lockdown measures enacted to combat the spread of COVID-19. China has been cracking down on its tech sector in an effort to reassert party control, but like other countries it is scrambling to find ways to regulate fast-developing AI technology. The most recent party meeting reinforced the need to assess the potential risks, take precautions, safeguard the people's interests and national security, and ensure the safety, reliability and ability to control AI, the official newspaper Beijing Youth Daily reported Tuesday. Worries about artificial intelligence systems outsmarting humans and slipping out of control have intensified with the rise of a new generation of highly capable AI chatbots such as ChatGPT. Sam Altman, CEO of ChatGPT-maker OpenAI, and Geoffrey Hinton, a computer scientist known as the godfather of artificial intelligence, were among the hundreds of leading figures who signed the statement on Tuesday that was posted on the Center for AI Safetys website. Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, the statement said. More than 1,000 researchers and technologists, including Elon Musk, who is currently on a visit to China, had signed a much longer letter earlier this year calling for a six-month pause on AI development. The missive said AI poses profound risks to society and humanity, and some involved in the topic have proposed a United Nations treaty to regulate the technology. China warned as far back as 2018 of the need to regulate AI, but has nonetheless funded a vast expansion in the field as part of efforts to seize the high ground on cutting-edge technologies. A lack of privacy protections and strict party control over the legal system have also resulted in near-blanket use of facial, voice and even walking-gait recognition technology to identify and detain those seen as threatening, particularly political dissenters and religious minorities, especially Muslims. Members of the Uyghur and other mainly Muslim ethnic groups have been singled out for mass electronic monitoring and more than 1 million people have been detained in prison-like political re-education camps that China calls deradicalization and job training centers. AI's risks are seen mainly in its ability to control robotic, self-governing weaponry, financial tools and computers governing power grids, health centers, transportation networks and other key infrastructure. China's unbridled enthusiasm for new technology and willingness to tinker with imported or stolen research and to stifle inquiries into major events such as the COVID-19 outbreak heighten concerns over its use of AI. Chinas blithe attitude toward technological risk, the governments reckless ambition, and Beijings crisis mismanagement are all on a collision course with the escalating dangers of AI, technology and national security scholars Bill Drexel and Hannah Kelley wrote in an article published this week in the journal Foreign Affairs. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Pharco Pharmaceutical signed a cooperation protocol to enhance family planning, reproductive services, and address population issues in Egypt, the Ministry of Health and Population announced on Tuesday. Frederika Meijer, UNFPA Representative for Egypt, and Sherine Helmy, CEO of Pharco Pharmaceuticals, signed the protocol. Following the signing, Minister of Health Hossam Abdel Ghaffar stated that Egypt's goal is not only to monitor birth rates, but also to offer comprehensive care to all newborns, including health, social, and psychological support. The protocol involves launching a campaign called A Life Path, which aims to fill gaps in family planning services in Egypt, the health minister revealed. The health minister said that the initiative will enhance the quality and accessibility of family planning and reproductive health services, improve healthcare provider skills, and increase public awareness among citizens in line with national objectives. He also announced that Egypt intends to set up numerous mobile medical clinics to serve remote and underserved regions and train 2,000 family planning healthcare providers to expand the scope of their services. Egypts Population Issue The Central Agency for Public Mobilisation and Statistics (CAPMAS) reports that Egypt's population is currently 104.9 million. Although there has been an increase in family planning services, the population of Egypt rose from 102.8 million to 104.4 million in 2022. In February, Tarek Tawfik, Head of Egypt's National Population Council (NPC), projected that the country's population could reach anywhere from 142 to 157 million by 2050. Egypt's National Dialogue Population Issue Committee urged for a framework to control population growth during their meeting on Thursday. The committee also requested the implementation of the National Population Strategy, which was presented by the Senate in 2022, to enhance family planning and reproductive health services. Following the dialogue session, CAPMAS reported on Saturday that the use of family planning by married women rose from 58.5 percent in 2014 to 66.4 percent in the past nine years. Furthermore, the birth rate in Egypt fell from 3.5 in 2014 to 2.8 in 2021. Government Initiatives The government has enacted several measures to reduce birth rates. In March, the government launched an initiative called Osra (family) to offer reproductive healthcare options to young people and provide information to those who wish to engage in family planning voluntarily. Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi initiated the National Project for Developing the Egyptian Family in February 2022, which addresses the health, social, family, and economic aspects of the issue. In 2021, the health ministry started offering free or reduced-cost family planning services. In 2020, the two-year Two Is Enough initiative was launched in Egypt to promote smaller family sizes. UNFPA Representative for Egypt, Meijer, and Pharco Pharmaceuticals CEO, Helmy, signed the relevant protocol. Search Keywords: Short link: Russia will evacuate hundreds of children from villages on its border with Ukraine given a "worsening situation" in the western Belgorod region, intensely shelled for days, authorities said Wednesday. Belgorod has seen near daily attacks on areas near the border and last week was the scene of a dramatic armed incursion from Ukraine. "The situation in (the border village of) Shebekino is worsening," regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Telegram. "We are starting today to evacuate children from the Shebekino and Graivoron districts," Gladkov said, referring to the most affected border areas. "Today, the first 300 children will be taken to Voronezh" -- a city around 250 kilometres (155 miles) further into Russia. Gladkov said Shebekino was shelled again overnight, causing "a lot of damage", a day after one person was killed by shelling. He said a rocket strike hit the village at 3:15 am local time (0015 GMT) and injured four people. "Nobody, thank God, died," Gladkov said. He posted photographs of a blackened burned cars lying in the grass near a playground and a rocket that landed on a road. Also on Wednesday, authorities in the southern Krasnodar region said a drone hit the Ilsky oil refinery, without causing damage or casualties. Moscow was on Tuesday targeted in an unprecedented drone attack, which President Vladimir Putin said was a Ukrainian attempt to "frighten" Russians. Attacks on Russian territory have increased in recent weeks as Kyiv says it is preparing a major counter-offensive to push back Moscow's forces. Search Keywords: Short link: Job Title: Administrative Assistant (Mbale University College) (Fresher Jobs) Organisation: Uganda Christian University (UCU) Duty Station: Mbale, Uganda About US: Uganda Christian University (UCU) is an authentic Christian institution established by the Church of Uganda in 1997 in response to a call for quality university education with a Christian perspective. Uganda Christian University replaced the historic Bishop Tucker Theological College which trained clergy and educators during its 84-year history from 1913-1997. The local chief, Hamu Mukasa, granted land for the college to operate in Mukono. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Oversee and carry out various daily departmental administrative functions. Perform regular secretarial duties for the department: answer phone calls, type correspondence (including email), order office supplies, maintain the office appointment calendar, screen incoming mail, arrange departmental meetings, photocopy materials, etc. Coordinate, initiate, prepare and monitor various administrative /operations forms, ensuring timely completion of documents. Organize and maintain departmental files and records using computer software. Requisition for equipment, furniture and other supplies for the office and ensure their maintenance from time to time Provide clerical support to the department whenever required Overseeing the day-to-day general operations of offices by ensuring general cleanliness and organization of all offices Qualifications, Skills and Experience: The applicant must hold a Bachelors degree in any relevant field from a recognized Institution of Higher learning. A minimum of two (2) years of working experience performing administrative tasks. Must have excellent computer skills (Word, Excel, Access, Power point and internet). Must have experience in minute taking. Must have good interpersonal skills especially when dealing with students, staff and visitors. Must be a person of high integrity with an excellent work ethic. Must be able to work under pressure to meet deadlines and be available to work after normal working hours. Must be a committed and practicing Christian. How to Apply: All candidates should send; Two (2) copies of an application letter together with an updated Curriculum Vitae and three references (Academic, Pastoral & Leadership) Two (2) copies of Certified academic certificates and transcripts from a recognized institution of higher learning Please Note: Applications sent online should have all the attachments as ONE PDF document otherwise they will not be considered. Send to: The Director, Human Resource & Administration, Uganda Christian University, Pilkington Building P.O. Box 4, Mukono. Uganda OR Email to jobs@ucu.ac.ug All the attachments should be in ONE PDF document. Deadline: 12th June 2023 by 5:00 p.m NB: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline IT services major Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), which was one of the first IT companies to ask employees to be back in the office at least 12 days a month, warned disciplinary proceedings against employees who fail adhere to the roaster. In a memo, TCS asked employees to strictly adhere to the assigned roaster. According to a Times of India report, the memo to the employees read: "You are warned and directed to start reporting to work from your office location as per the assigned roster with immediate effect." In October, the company, which has been encouraging work from office, had asked employees to be in office at least three days a week. TCS said the company is excited to see its campuses buzzing with energy and wants all its employees to be part of this, TOI reported. "A significant number of employees have joined TCS in the last two years. It is important for them to experience the TCS environment to collaborate, learn, grow and also have fun together, thus developing a stronger sense of belonging to the organisation and enabling better integration," TCS has been quoted as saying. As on March 2023, TCS has a workforce of 6,14,795. Streaming platforms have a wide variety of content to offer this week, from movies to fresh seasons of popular shows and more. Here is a quick look at all that's arriving on Netflix, Disney plus Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, JioCinema and more. Scoop: Netflix Release date: June 2 Hansal Mehta's much-awaited Netflix thriller delves into the life of a crime reporter and her fight for justice after she gets arrested for the murder of a fellow journalist. Based on the true story of journalist Jigna Vora, the series is based on her memoir Behind Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison. The series features Karishma Tanna, Prosenjit Chatterjee and Harman Baweja in key roles. Asur 2: JioCinema Release date: June 1 The second season of the acclaimed crime thriller series directed by Onir Sen, Asur 2 will see Barun Sobti, Arshad Warsi, Amey Wagh, and Riddhi Dogra reprise their roles from the first season which premiered in 2020. The show chronicles the story of a serial killer on the loose in the backdrop of myths and religion. School of Lies: Disney plus Hotstar Release date: June 2 Yet another exciting release this week, the eight-episode mystery drama revolves around a 12-year-old boy's disappearance from a boarding school. Starring Nimrat Kaur, the show, inspired by real events is produced by BBC Studios and directed by Avinash Arun Dhaware. It also features Aamir Bashir, Geetika Vidya Ohlyan, Sonali Kulkarni and Jitendra Joshi along with Varin Roopani, Divyansh Dwivedi, Aryan Singh Ahlawat, Hemant Kher, Parthiv Shetty, Adrija Sinha and Aalekh Kapoor. Manifest season 4 part 2: Netflix Release date: June 2 After a cliffhanger ending to part 1, the last part of the finale will hopefully answer fans' questions about Flight 828. The series is centered around passengers of the flight who were believed to have died, but return to their much-changed personal lives and society after five years. The final part will have 10 episodes. Sulaikha Manzil: Disney plus Hotstar Release date: May 30 The Malayalam romantic comedy which was released in theatres recently, is now available for OTT viewing. Directed by Ashraf Hamza, the film starring Lukman Avaran and Anarkali Marikar, is set against the backdrop of a Muslim wedding in Malabar. Mumbaikar: JioCinema Release date: June 2 A remake of Lokesh Kanagarajs directorial debut MaanagaramMumbaikar revolves around a Mumbais mafia leader who is mistakenly abducted for ransom. The action thriller, directed by Santosh Sivan, features Vijay Sethupathi, Vikrant Massey, Ranvir Shorey, Tanya Maniktala, and Sanjay Mishra. Around 150 medical colleges across the country are likely to lose recognition of the National Medical Commission (NMC), which is the regulatory body for India's medical education and medical professionals. In the last two months, more than 30 medical colleges across Tamil Nadu, Assam, Gujarat, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh lost recognition of the NMC due to non-compliance with rules and inadequate faculty. The irregularities were noted when the undergraduate medical education board of the commission inspected the institutions for over a month. CCTV cameras, lapses in Aadhar-linked biometric attendance procedures, vacancies of posts, and the faculty rolls were looked into. However, impacted medical colleges can appeal to the NMC within 30 days, and if rejected, they have the option of approaching the Union ministry of health. What does the de-recognition of medical colleges mean? In February, the government had informed the Parliament that there had been a 69 per cent increase in the number of medical colleges in the country, from 387 in 2014 to 654 now. In a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Health Bharati Pravin Pawar said there had been a 94 per cent increase in the number of MBBS seats and a 107 per cent increase in the number of postgraduate (PG) seats since 2014. However, in a country where the number of medical colleges and seats has remained limited for decades, this development means looking at a bigger problem. In February, Pawar mentioned that 75 projects had been sanctioned as part of the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) for "upgrading of government medical colleges by the construction of super specialty blocks," and out of these, 60 were complete. She further stated that the requirements for faculty, staff, bed strength, and other infrastructure had been relaxed for the establishment of medical colleges. But the development hints at an alarming situation wherein despite the progress, the medical education ecosystem in the country could be hit adversely. AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami and AMMK general secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran recently criticised the DMK government over three medical colleges in Tamil Nadu losing recognition. They blamed the lax attitude of Chief Minister M.K. Stalins government saying it would impact students. Despite the lack of medical colleges in the country, doctors do believe having standard medical colleges would improve the overall medical ecosystem in the country. Talking to THE WEEK, Dr Vipin Kumar Jain, consultant internal medicine, Manipal Hospital, Jaipur, said while a number of medical colleges are being opened, it is important to understand that without proper faculty, it would be difficult to manage the quality of medical education. NMC had notified colleges to provide the best faculties to run the programmes or medical colleges in a proper educational way, where we can see new doctors. However, what happened is that all medical colleges do not have adequate number of faculties which is required according to the NMC rules. So, the education in the medical faculty is getting hampered. Dr Jain said there is an urgent need to arrange the faculties on a permanent basis because some of these institutes run without the faculty and the teachers are sent from one place to another. There is a need to improve and arrange proper faculties and the proper departments to run the show over medical students and give them a good education. It is important to make a good referral at the hospital so that needy patients get good attention and good care. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is in Manipur to work up a peace formula following the ethnic clashes that rocked the state, will visit the Moreh and Kangpokpi areas of the state on Wednesday. Shah has also scheduled a meeting with the delegations of various local groups in Moreh followed by a meeting with civil society organisations in Kangpokpi. On Tuesday, the Home Minister held talks with rival Kuki and Meitei community leaders besides civil society groups and top security officers. A statement from the Home Ministry said that Shah had a (separate) meeting with prominent personalities in Imphal. "Had a fruitful discussion with the members of the different civil society organisations today in Imphal. They expressed their commitment to peace and assured that we would together contribute to paving the way to restore normalcy in Manipur," he added. He had also visited Kuki-dominated Churachandpur, the scene of some of the worst rioting in the recent ethnic conflict. Later in the night, he also held an all-party meeting and a meeting with the top brass of central police forces, Manipur police and the army and ask them to ensure peace. Union Home Minister Amit Shah meets prominent persons and a delegation of Civil Society Organisations, in Churachandpur | PTI Shah who was accompanied by the IB chief and Home Secretary, held three rounds of talks with various groups such as Indigenous Tribal Leaders' Forum (ITLF), Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) and other civil society organisations. He also met five Kuki MLAs from the BJP. The Home Minister requested the Kuki society to maintain peace and assured he would send in more security personnel if needed to ensure the safety of common people, he added. ITLF secretary Muan Tombing told PTI, "He (Shah) told us that the CBI will be entrusted with carrying out a detailed probe to find out the reasons behind this prolonged clash. Besides, a judicial enquiry will also be announced." Tombing said his group "demanded separation from Manipur" as also sought "President's Rule" in the state. Meanwhile, a group of award-winning international and national sportspersons from Manipur, which included Anita Chanu and N Kunjrani Devi, on Tuesday tried to meet the Home Minister. The group members later held a press conference to state that they will return the prizes given to them by the government if the state's territorial integrity is compromised. (With inputs from PTI) Three infiltrators were apprehended near the line of control (LoC) along with a cache of arms and narcotics by the Army on Wednesday. One of the infiltrators was caught in an injured condition and was taken to the hospital. The infiltrators were apprehended after the Army fired due to suspicious movement at Gulpur in Poonch. The infiltrators also opened fire but were pinned and apprehended. A consignment of arms, and ammunition, including one AK series rifle, and two pistols with bullets were recovered from them. The whole area was immediately cordoned off and three people, one of them in an injured condition, were arrested along with a consignment of narcotics and weapons, while an Army jawan was also injured, the officials said. The officials identified the arrested accused as Mohd Farooq (26), who received a bullet injury in his leg, Mohd Riaz (23) and Mohd Zubair (22), all residents of Karmara. The Army has been maintaining a strict vigil in Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu where more than 20 soldiers have been killed in militant attacks in the last two years. On April 20, militants ambushed an Army truck at Bhatta Dhurian in Rajouri and killed five soldiers. Five special forces personnel belonging to the Armys elite 9 para were killed in an IED explosion during an operation against militants involved in the attack on the Army truck After the removal of Article 370, militants groups like TRF and PAFF, which police say are Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammad in disguise, have increased their presence in Pir Panjal mountains that separate south Kashmir from Rajouri and Poonch. India and China on Wednesday held in-person diplomatic talks here and discussed proposals for disengagement in the remaining friction points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh in a "frank and open manner". The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said both sides agreed to hold 19th round of high-level military talks at an early date to achieve the objective of restoration of peace and tranquillity in the border areas. The meeting took place under the framework of Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC). The Indian and Chinese troops are locked in an over three-year confrontation in certain friction points in eastern Ladakh even as the two sides completed disengagement from several areas following extensive diplomatic and military talks. "The two sides reviewed the situation along the LAC in Western Sector of India-China border areas and discussed proposals for disengagement in remaining areas in a frank and open manner," it said. "Restoration of peace and tranquillity will create conditions for normalising bilateral relations," the MEA said. "In order to achieve this objective, in accordance with existing bilateral agreements and protocols, they agreed to hold the next (19th) round of Senior Commander's meeting at an early date," it said in a statement. The MEA said the two sides agreed to continue discussions through military and diplomatic channels. It was the 27th meeting of the WMCC. The previous WMCC meeting was held in Beijing on February 22. The Joint Secretary (East Asia) from the Ministry of External Affairs led the Indian delegation. The Chinese side was led by the Director General of the Boundary and Oceanic Affairs Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The 18th round of high-level military talks between the two sides were held on April 23 during which they agreed to stay in close touch and work out a mutually acceptable solution to the remaining issues in eastern Ladakh at the earliest. Days later, Chinese defence minister Li Shangfu visited India to attend a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). On the sidelines of the SCO meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a nearly 45-minute bilateral meeting with Li. In the talks, Singh told his Chinese counterpart that China's violation of existing border agreements "eroded" the entire basis of ties between the two countries and that all issues relating to the frontier must be resolved in accordance with the existing pacts. On May 4, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed to his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang the importance of resolving the eastern Ladakh border row and ensuring peace and tranquillity along the LAC for development of bilateral ties. A day after the talks Jaishankar had said at a media briefing that the situation along the border in eastern Ladakh is "abnormal" and India-China relations cannot be normal if peace and tranquillity in border areas is disturbed. The eastern Ladakh border standoff erupted on May 5, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area. The ties between the two countries nosedived significantly following the fierce clash in the Galwan Valley in June 2020 that marked the most serious military conflict between the two sides in decades. As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process in 2021 on the north and south banks of the Pangong lake and in the Gogra area. Germany will drastically reduce Moscow's diplomatic presence on its soil after Russia slashed the number of people Berlin can employ in its embassies and institutions in Russia, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Wednesday. "We have decided to withdraw consent for the operation of four of the five Russian consulates operating in Germany," the spokesman told a regular government press conference. "This was communicated to the Russian foreign ministry today," he added. The German foreign ministry said at the weekend that hundreds of civil servants and local employees working for German institutions in Russia had been asked to leave the country. Moscow had put a 350 limit on the number of German personnel in Russia, said the foreign ministry spokesman. "In order to be able to meet the Russian requirements for limiting our staff, the government has decided to close the German consulates in Kaliningrad, Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk," the spokesman said on Wednesday. Operations will be considerably reduced and will be discontinued by November, he said. Germany's embassy in Moscow and its consulate in St Petersburg will not be affected. "For the Russian presence in Germany, our decisions apply reciprocally... in order to ensure a balance of the mutual presences both in terms of personnel and structure," the spokesman said. According to the German foreign ministry, Russia will slash the number of people that Berlin can employ in its embassies or institutions in Russia in the education and cultural sectors starting from June. Several hundred people are affected, including officials from the embassy and consulate, but mostly employees of the Goethe cultural institute in the country, German schools and nurseries, the ministry said. Search Keywords: Short link: It has taken six months, but Nepals Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal better known as Prachanda has kept to tradition and chosen New Delhi to make his first foreign visit. It has been a politically turbulent few months in the Himalayan country and with an economic crisis looming large, Prachanda may be under pressure to mention the border dispute, but is likely to focus on economic ties. An atmosphere of trust will be created to resolve this longstanding issue, he said addressing the Parliament ahead of the visit. On a four-day visit, Prachanda will also visit the Mahakaal temple in Ujjain. This move by a Maoist leader who was responsible for the battle to end monarchy as well as to declare the country secular rather than Hindu, is interesting. It is symbolic of a bonds that go beyond Buddhism. With there being sensitivity around Buddha, it may be Prachandas way, as some Nepalese commentators have suggested, a way of displaying common groundone that may be more pleasing to India. It is no secret that the RSS has been very interested in the Hindu connection with Nepal. But the visit will go beyond the symbolism. On the cards is expected energy cooperation. This is an area that is likely to be a game-changer between the two countries. Hydropower is an important area of cooperation between the two countries and Prachanda will be keen to get more investment from India. Already ahead of his visit, a 669 MW hydropower project known as Lower Arun Hydro Project was announced. A joint venture with Himachal Pradesh government, this would be the biggest hydroproject between the two countries once implemented. During my visit, I will discuss with the Indian side various aspects of bilateral relations such as trade, transmission, energy cooperation, irrigation, air route, roads, and other connectivity projects, said the prime minister to Parliament in Monday. Prachanda will also hold extensive talks with Prime Minister Modi on diverse areas of the bilateral partnership between the two countries, according to a statement put out by the Ministry of External Affairs. Connectivity is also expected to be an important aspect. The two prime ministers will remotely inaugurate the railway yard in Biratnagar, the Jaynagar-Janakpur railway that has been expanded up to Bijalpura, and the integrated check posts in Biratnagar and Nepalgunj, according to reports. Nepal will also be hoping that India will help facilitate energy cooperation with Bangladesh. So far there has been little movement. This time, I will hold concrete talks to secure the deal that would allow us to export our electricity to Bangladesh, he said in Parliament. Whether that happens remains to be seen. But with domestic situation in Nepal being still fragile, Prachanda who has now tied up with the Nepali Congress, having ditched K.P Oli, will be hoping that this trip will help boost his image in the country. The Allahabad High Court on Wednesday dismissed a petition filed by the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid (AIM) Committee and the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Waqf Board challenging the maintainability of a suit filed by five Hindu women before a Varanasi court, seeking the right to worship inside the Gyanvapi mosque. The mosque committee had argued that the petition filed by Hindu devotees in Varanasi court was not maintainable under the Places of Worship Act of 1991 and the Central Waqf Act of 1995. "It is a historic verdict. The court clearly has said that Anjuman Intezamia Mosque Committee's petition is not maintainable and dismissed it," said Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side. The petitioners said they may consider filing a review petition in the Supreme Court. "This is not a big win (for the Hindu side) as the court gave a verdict only on the Order 7 Rule CPC plea filed by Anjuman Intazamia Mosque Committee. We can file a review petition and also approach the Supreme Court. The next course of action will be decided upon after reading the order," said Mohammad Tauheed Khan, advocate representing the Muslim side. Meanwhile, the high court will hear on July 14 a plea moved by the Waqf Board and the mosque management committee challenging the maintainability of another suit before Varanasi court, seeking the restoration of a temple at the site where the mosque exists. On April 8, 2021, while hearing the petition, the Varanasi court had directed the Archaeological Survey of India to conduct a comprehensive survey of the mosque complex. The order was challenged before the high court. On September 9, 2021, the high court stayed the Varanasi court's April 8 order. The stay order was extended from time to time during the hearing of the matter. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday attacked the Opposition for boycotting the inauguration of new Parliament building, saying the Congress "insulted" the sentiments of the country and the hard work 60,000 labourers. "India got a new Parliament building three days back. I ask you whether you are proud of it or not. Did you feel the joy on the increase in India's prestige? The Congress and some parties like it hurled the mud of politics on this too," he said at a rally in Ajmer. The Congress and 20 other parties boycotted the inauguration of the new Parliament building by the prime minister on Sunday, saying it was an insult to President Droupadi Murmu, a tribal woman, that she was not invited by the government to do the honours. Modi said such opportunities come once in generations, but the Congress used this for its "selfish protest". "They insulted the hard work of 60,000 labourers and the sentiment of the country," he said, adding the Congress is unable to digest the progress the country is making. Referring to main Opposition party Congress, Modi said they are angry because a "son of the poor" is not allowing them to do what they want and is "raising questions on their corruption and parivarwad (dynastic politics)". The prime minister accused the Congress of following a policy of misleading the poor and keeping them deprived during its rule. "Fifty years ago, the Congress guaranteed that it will remove poverty. But it turned out to be their biggest betrayal to the poor." "It has been a policy of the Congress to mislead the poor and keep them deprived. The people of Rajasthan have also suffered a lot due to this," Modi said. The rally was organised to mark the completion of nine years of the Modi government across its two terms. The nine years of the BJP government were dedicated to the service of people, good governance, and welfare of poor, he said. Modi said that before 2014, people were on the streets against corruption and terror attacks rocked major cities while the Congress ran the government by remote control. During its rule, the Congress developed a corrupt system that "sucked the blood of the country" and hindered development, he said. Now, the prime minister said, people across the world are talking about India, and experts are saying India is very close to ending extreme poverty. Modi's Rajasthan visit assumes significance as assembly elections are due in the state later this year. "Behind every success the country achieves, there is sweat of the people of India. The determination shown by every Indian to take the country forward is unique, but some people are not able to digest this," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Rajasthan on Wednesday to mark the start of BJP's month-long outreach campaign. The mega rally to be held by the Prime Minister at Ajmer comes as the state prepares for the Assembly elections later this year. The campaign is being held to mark BJP's nine years in power at the Centre. The Prime Minister will travel by helicopter from Kishangarh airport to the holy town of Pushkar, where he will offer prayers at the Brahma temple and visit the ghats, BJP sources told PTI. He will then fly by helicopter to Kayad Vishram Sthali on the Jaipur road to address the rally. Union Ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal and Kailash Chaudhary, and other BJP leaders from Rajasthan will attend the meeting. The mega rally is expected to be one of the largest ever conducted by the Prime Minister as the party expects over two lakh people to participate in it. BJP workers from 45 assembly and eight Lok Sabha constituencies are being mobilised for the rally, Ajmer North MLA Vasudev Devnani told reporters. The constituencies fall in the districts of Ajmer, Nagaur, Tonk, Bhilwara, Rajsamand, Jaipur and Pali. Of these 45 Assembly seats, 21 are held by the Congress, 19 by the BJP, three by independents and two by the Rashtriya Loktantrik Party. The Prime Minister had recently visited Rajsamand and Sirohi in the state. Meanwhile, the outreach programme will highlight the achievements of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government for the last nine years. According to the BJP, the country has witnessed "unprecedented" development in every sector with the mantra of "nation first" guiding Modi's policies. The outreach programme will witness the party conducting over 51 huge rallies and public meetings at over 500 places across the country. This is in addition to the over 600 press conferences at over 500 Lok Sabha and 4000 Vidhan Sabha constituencies. "As part of the campaign, party leaders will meet 1,000 eminent families per Lok Sabha segment, and conduct 51 mega rallies across India, along with seminars with teachers, social media influencers and other distinguished citizens," party national general secretary Tarun Chugh, coordinator for the programme, told reporters. Hafiz Abdul Salam Bhuttavi, an UN-designated terrorist who trained the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) attackers for the 2008 Mumbai terror attack and acted as the outfit's chief on at least two occasions, died in a prison in Pakistan's Punjab province while serving a sentence for terror financing, his aide said on Wednesday. Bhuttavi, who founded LeT headquarters in Muridke in Punjab, was deputy to the outlawed Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief and Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed. The JuD is the front organisation for the LeT. "Bhuttavi, 77, was incarcerated at District Jail Sheikhupura, some 60 kms from Lahore, since October 2019 in a terror financing case. On May 29, he felt severe pain in his chest and was shifted to hospital where he was pronounced dead (due to cardiac arrest) on arrival," a JuD official told PTI. His funeral was held at the LeT/JuD headquarters in Muridke in which a large number of the supporters of the banned organisation participated amid high security. A source in the Punjab government told PTI that JuD chief Hafiz Saeed, who is lodged at the Kot Lakhpat jail since 2019 serving multiple sentences in terror financing cases, had requested the government to allow him to attend Bhuttavi's funeral but permission was not granted. An Anti-Terrorism Court in Lahore had given Bhuttavi a jail term of 16 years in a terror financing case in 2020. A close aide to Saeed, Bhuttavi faced sanctions from the US treasury department in 2011. The UN Security Council's ISIL (Daesh) and Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee added Bhuttavi to its list of designated terrorists in March 2012. Bhuttavi was designated a terrorist by the UN Security Council for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing, or perpetrating of acts or activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf of, or in support of or otherwise supporting acts and activities of" LeT. A summary by the UN committee described him as a founding member of LeT who served as the acting emir of the LeT and the JuD on at least two occasions when Saeed was detained. Saeed was detained days after the 2008 Mumbai attacks and held until June 2009. "Bhuttavi handled the group's day-to-day functions during this period, and made independent decisions on behalf of the organization," according to the summary. Saeed was also detained in May 2002. Bhuttavi was also a scholar who issued fatwas authorising LeT/JuD operations. "Bhuttavi helped prepare the operatives for the November 2008 terrorist assault in Mumbai, India, by delivering lectures on the merits of martyrdom operations," the summary says. Born in August 1946 in Pattoki, Kasur district of Punjab, Bhuttavi was the head of 150 JuD seminaries in Pakistan. His native town is Dipalpur, Okara district of Punjab, from where the lone captured LeT attacker Ajmal Kasab hailed. Since 1992, he was looking after the affairs of the LeT/JuD headquarters in Muridke before the government took over its charge four years ago. The LeT was responsible for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai terror attack that killed 166 people, including six Americans. The US Department of the Treasury designated Saeed as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist, and the US, since 2012, offered a USD 10 million reward for information that brings Saeed to justice. He was listed under the UN Security Council Resolution 1267 in December 2008. The Islamabad High Court on Wednesday will hear the bail plea of former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan in the Al Qadir Trust corruption case, as his previous bail has expired. On May 12, the court issued a directive prohibiting authorities from arresting Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party chief in various cases, including undisclosed ones, registered throughout the country until May 15. In the subsequent hearing, the court further extended the restriction on the arrest until May 31, the Dawn newspaper reported. The court will also hear two additional bail petitions of the former prime minister, concerning cases pertaining to a violation of section 144 during a rally held in Islamabad to show support for the judiciary, as well as the incidents of violence that occurred on May 9. Later on Wednesday, an accountability court will take up the bail plea of Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, in the Al Qadir Trust case. As Khan is facing over 100 cases, Bushra is nominated in two cases -- Toshakhana (gifts) and the Al-Qadir Trust case. The Al-Qadir Trust case is about the setting up of Al-Qadir University for Sufism in the 2019 Sohawa area of Jhelum district of Punjab. The arrest of Khan on May 9 by the paramilitary Pakistan Rangers at the IHC premises triggered unrest in Pakistan. For the first time in Pakistan's history, the protesters stormed the army headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi and also torched the Corps Commander House in Lahore. Police put the death toll in violent clashes to 10 while Khan's party claims 40 of its workers lost their lives in the firing by security personnel. Khan was ousted from power in April last year after losing a no-confidence vote in his leadership, which he alleged was part of a US-led conspiracy targeting him because of his independent foreign policy decisions on Russia, China and Afghanistan. Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is on a 10-day tour to the US, took a swipe at the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that "some groups in India have the disease of being under the impression that they know everything." Addressing the Indian diaspora at an event titled 'Mohabbat ki Dukaan' in San Francisco on Wednesday, Rahul said: "In India, we grew up with people of different languages, different religions. And that is what is being attacked. The tradition in India, of people like Gandhi Ji and Guru Nanak Ji, has been that you should not be under the impression of knowing everything. It is a 'disease' that some groups of India think that they know everything. Even if they have a conversation with God, they might explain to him." Sharpening his attack, Rahul said: "And of course, Prime Minister is one of them. If you make him sit with God, he would start explaining to him (God) how the universe worksand God would get confused about what I had created." "They (BJP) can speak to scientists and explain science to them. They can explain history to historians, warfare to the army and flying to the air force. But at the heart of it, they dont know anything," Rahul said. The Congress leader, who was recently disqualified from the Parliament, added that he had to take out 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' because all instruments of doing politics and connecting with people were "being controlled" by the RSS and the BJP. He added that the "whole India" walked with him during the Yatra. "While walking we realised that normal instruments for doing politics (connecting with people) were not working anymore. They were controlled by the BJP and RSS. People are threatened and agencies are used against them. In some way, it had become quite difficult to act politically. That is why we decided to walk from the southernmost tip of India to Srinagar. Rahul also accused the BJP of trying everything to stop his yatra but nothing work against the "effect" of the yatra. He added that it was during the Yatra that the idea of 'Nafrat Ke Bazaar Mein Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' came up to his mind. "Not just in India, 'Bharat Jodo' is an idea which is about respecting each other and being affectionate to each other. It is about not being violent towards each other, not being arrogant. And I did nothing compared to Guru Nanak Ji. I read that he walked to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. He was doing Bharat Jodo much before. In Karnataka, Basavana ji. In Kerala, Narayan Guruji, every state has had these giants," he said. He also praised the people who attended the event, adding that Indians absorbed every idea that came to them and never rejected anything. "You were not here if you had not believed in this. If you had believed in anger, hatred, and arrogance, you would have gone to BJP, and I would have started Mann ki Baat'," he added. Gandhi said India is not what is being shown in the media which likes to promote a political narrative that is far from reality, asserting that there is a "huge distortion". "It was very clear to me in the Yatra that it's in the media's interest to project these things, it helps the BJP. So, don't think that everything you see in the media is the truth," he said. "India is not what the media shows. The media likes to show a particular narrative. It likes to promote a political narrative that is actually not what is going on in India," he said. According to Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda, said Gandhi's visit is aimed at promoting shared values and a vision of real democracy. "The purpose of his (Gandhi's) trip is to connect, interact and begin a new conversation with various individuals, institutions and media, including the Indian diaspora that is growing in numbers in the United States and abroad to promote the shared values and vision of the real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over, Pitroda said in a statement. Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani held secret talks with Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhunzada. This is the first time Akhunzada is known to have met a foreign leader. The two leaders, who met on May 12, talked about resolving tension with the international community, Reuters reported. US President Joe Bidens administration was briefed on the talks and is coordinating on all issues discussed by the pair, including furthering dialogue with the Taliban, said the source. Sheikh Mohammed raised issues like the need to end Taliban bans on girls education and womens employment. Qatar has been critical of the Taliban's restrictions on women. At the same time, has been using its long-standing relations with the Islamist movements to push Kabul for deeper engagement with the international community. The US, along with the UN and other humanitarian groups, have been urging the Taliban to restore freedom of movement for women and bring Afghans from outside Taliban ranks into government. Over the past two years, the Taliban has closed secondary schools for girls. It has also banned women from attending universities and working in non-governmental organizations in Afghanistan. According to a UN report presented in March at the Human Rights Council in Geneva, the Taliban's treatment of women and children could amount to a crime against humanity. The Taliban say they respect womens rights in line with their interpretation of Islamic law and Afghan customs, Reuters reported. Haibtullah's willingness to meet with Sheikh Mohammed suggests that he is open to exploring ways to end the nation's isolation and boost relief programs as the country plunges into hunger and poverty. Amid brewing tensions between China and the US, the US Air Force released a video on Tuesday showing a Chinese fighter cutting dangerously close to a US spy plane, causing the latter to fly through the wake turbulence of the intercepting aircraft. The footage of the incident that happened on May 26 over the South China Sea shows the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) J-16 fighter cut directly in front of the nose of the US RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft. The subsequent turbulence left the crew rattled and the US aircraft shuddering. "A People's Republic of China J-16 fighter pilot performed an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver during the intercept of a U.S. Air Force RC-135 aircraft, May 26, 2023," said a statement from U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. "The PRC pilot flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135, forcing the U.S. aircraft to fly through its wake turbulence," said the statement. "The RC-135 was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law." "The United States will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Joint Force will continue to fly in international airspace with due regard for the safety of all vessels and aircraft under international law." #USINDOPACOM Statement on #PRC Unprofessional Intercept: "We expect all countries in the Indo-Pacific region to use international airspace safely and in accordance with international law." Read morehttps://t.co/jeAEg1lHXz pic.twitter.com/AvPKRZHCZB U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (@INDOPACOM) May 30, 2023 According to an US official, the Chinese fighter swerved across the US aircraft's flight path at a distance of 400 feet. This isn't the first time that PLA aircraft and vessels are "harrassing" the US jets and ships in the South China Sea, where China constantly displays its military might. According to a senior U.S. defense official, the Chinese harassment is coordinated and increasing in frequency. "We don't believe it's done by pilots operating independently," the official was quoted by ABC News. "We believe it's part of a wider pattern we see in the South China Sea, the East China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, and elsewhere." Last December, a PLA Navy J-11 fighter jet flew dangerously close to another US reconnaisance flight. The Chinese jet was within 10 feet of ar U.S. RC-135, forcing the Air Force pilot to undertake evasive maneuvers. In February, a US plane flying 30 miles from the Chinese coastline was also ordered to leave as a Chinese fighter jet pulled up alongside to escort them out of the area. The relations between the two countries have hit a rock bottom after former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi decided to visit the self-governing island of Taiwan last August despite China's resistance. The US had also shot down a spy balloon last February after spotting it hovering over sensitive US military sites. Though the US is looking to reengage with China, the latter rejected a proposal for Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to meet with his Chinese counterpart Li Shangfu at the Shangri-La Dialogue Security Forum in Singapore this week. New Delhi, May 31 (PTI) Apollo Hospitals is investing extensively in new age technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) to create new medical benchmarks in disease prediction, diagnosis accuracy, reduced patient in-time and advanced home care, Shobana Kamineni, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise said. She said a good example of this is its preventive health programme, 'ProHealth', which uses a superior AI engine to go one step ahead of generic health check-ups by predicting potential health risks and helping patients "truly own their health". "Our 40 years' worth of insights on patient care is our biggest differentiator and we are committed to using the power of AI to positively disrupt the way we diagnose, treat and care for our patients," Kamineni told PTI. Huge shifts are taking place for hospitals, from inpatient to outpatient care and from outpatient to home care all over the world. Kamineni feels healthcare organisations must elevate their tech agendas to explore emerging digital technologies that provide the right infrastructure for continuous care. Excerpts from the interview: Q. What role are digital platforms and solutions playing in the Indian healthcare sector today, and how has Apollo embraced new technologies? A: Apollo is firmly committed to driving innovation and growth in healthcare, across digital and physical touchpoints. Our surgical abilities and successes are unmatched for instance, we have invested in 18 robotic surgical systems and successfully conducted 10,000 plus robotic-assisted surgeries in India, significantly reducing overall patient hospital stay by enabling faster recovery. Likewise, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre is the first and only proton therapy centre in South Asia and Middle East and it is India's first Joint Commission International accredited cancer hospital. With this, patients have access to this cutting-edge treatment at a significantly lower cost than the West. This commitment to innovation and care has also led to a significant increase in the influx of international patients to our facilities, further aiding India in its goal of becoming a global medical value destination. The digital technologies with Apollo 24|7 have also enabled us to envision a holistic healthcare system for people. With this, we have been able to truly create an ecosystem where a person can get everything, virtually and physically. Whether they want a doctor consult, medicines, or a diagnostic test, it's available, while maintaining health records all in one place. It has helped us become an integral part of people's lives. So, apart from building a good business, we are making healthcare more ubiquitous and affordable. Q. How are digital and emerging technologies at Apollo Hospitals bringing new innovations to life? A: Apollo has been at the forefront of adopting and leveraging digital and emerging technologies to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. We are using IoT (Internet of Things) devices to monitor patients' health remotely, track medication adherence, and alert healthcare providers to any potential health issues. We have also developed a smart hospital system that uses IoT sensors to monitor various aspects of the hospital, such as temperature, humidity, and air quality, to ensure a safe and healthy environment for patients and staff. We have developed an AI-powered tool called 'Ask Apollo AI' which uses natural language processing to answer patients' queries and guide them to appropriate healthcare services. Q. How are you leveraging big data, AI/ML to enhance customer experience? How important will technology be as a key differentiator in healthcare? A: We are investing extensively in AI/ML to create new medical benchmarks in disease prediction, diagnosis accuracy, reduced patient in-time and advanced home care. For instance, our one-of-a-kind preventive health programme, 'ProHealth', uses a superior AI engine to go one step ahead of generic health check-ups by predicting potential health risks and helping patients truly own their health. We also recently launched Apollo Clinical Intelligence Engine - a clinical decision support tool, open to use by all doctors across India on Apollo 24|7's platform. The Clinical Intelligence Engine is capable of analysing vast amounts of data to help identify patterns which may be missed otherwise, enabling doctors to be prompter and more precise for better clinical outcomes. Our 40 years' worth of insights on patient care is our biggest differentiator and we are committed to using the power of AI to positively disrupt the way we diagnose, treat and care for our patients! The biggest advantage of tech integration is that it allows healthcare organisations to be a part of an individual's complete health journey and not merely on a hospital bed. Huge shifts are taking place for hospitals, from inpatient to outpatient care and from outpatient to home care. What was once done in a hospital room may be done in offices or in homes, including procedures such as chemotherapy and X-rays. A lot of hospital care is becoming more mobile. Healthcare organisations must elevate their technology agendas to explore emerging digital technologies that provide the right infrastructure to provide continuous care. Q. What are the most memorable moments when you look back at the journey of Apollo, and what are the key milestones? A: When I look back at Apollo's journey of almost four decades, it is humbling to note the immense growth that we've achieved since we started our journey - from a 150-bed hospital in erstwhile Madras. On a bedrock of relentless innovation and our unwavering commitment to patient care, we grew our network of hospitals and medical centres and also actively expanded our touchpoints to be able to serve our patients anywhere, anytime. With patient care at its centre, Apollo today is the world's largest vertically integrated healthcare platform with a massive footprint across hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centres, pharmacies, telemedicine centres, education, research, global projects and more. Since the inception of Apollo, it has been my privilege to champion special initiatives and build three billion-dollar verticals for the Apollo Group. In 1987, with a focus to ensure access to safe medicine, I led the development of Apollo Pharmacy which has now become the pharmacy of India with 5000-plus stores, across 600 cities and capability to deliver medicines to more than 19,000 pin codes. It was heartening to see Apollo Pharmacies become a lifeline for millions in India during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the teams delivered medicines directly to homes every single day. I also founded and served as the chairperson of Apollo Munich Health Insurance, India's only standalone health insurance company and steered the business for nine years, before its merger with HDFC ERGO. We are now on a very exciting journey with Apollo 24|7. Apollo 24|7 is India's fastest-growing and largest omni-channel digital healthcare company, with a user base of over 25 million, focused on providing best-in-class consumer experience for all healthcare needs. Q. What strategy are you driving to make Apollo a healthcare leader, and an agile and self-sustaining organisation? A: At Apollo, we have always believed in harnessing the power of innovation and being able to pivot the business models to best serve unmet healthcare needs of the country. Our values have been instrumental in taking Apollo's care model just beyond hospital infrastructure scaling clinical protocols, retail health, medical education, embracing digital health, and working to protect and serve societies by sharing best practices. We firmly believe in the power of omni as healthcare models cannot scale if they are not anchored in the duality of physical and digital. Primary care, diagnostics, secondary and tertiary care, and retail health, all linked and enabled through a dynamic integrated digital platform are pivotal in the present day and future ahead too. Q. How has Apollo Hospitals grown over the past decades, and what have been the notable trends during and post Covid? A: We are invested in supporting our patients through every part of their healthcare journey - 72 hospitals, 5,500-plus pharmacies, over 200 clinics and diagnostic centres, 150 telemedicine centres as well as 25 million plus users on Apollo 24/7 makes us the world's largest vertically integrated healthcare provider and ensures we offer the best care at every touchpoint. The greatest shift with the pandemic has been undoubtedly towards digital health. Customer adoption has seen exponential growth, and companies across the spectrum are exploring emerging digital technologies. We believe this can greatly improve access and disrupt the metrics of healthcare as a whole. Digitisation is also enabling doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals in driving greater efficiencies. In India, 60 per cent of hospitals, 75 per cent of pharmacies, and 80 per cent of doctors are in urban areas. This creates a rural 'famine' for health, but we can change this metric with better accessibility through digital health. European leaders started gathering in Moldova Wednesday on the eve of a sprawling summit aiming to show a united front in the face of Russia's war in Ukraine and underscore support for the Eastern European countrys ambitions to draw closer to the West and keep Moscow at bay, as Brussels chief Ursula von der Leyen congratulated Moldova's President Maia Sandu on making "big progress" in the reforms required to back a bid for European Union membership. Moldova, Europes poorest country which is cradled by Ukraine on three sides, is putting its best foot forward for the second meeting of the European Political Community, a gathering which will bring together around 50 leaders from 47 countries in what organizers are calling the largest international event in the countrys history. The choice to hold the summit in Moldova, a former Soviet republic of around 2.6 million people, is seen as a message to the Kremlin both by the European Union and by the pro-Western Moldovan government, which received EU candidate status in June of last year at the same time as Ukraine. The presence of 50 European leaders, 50 heads of state and government right now in Moldova, in Chisinau, gives a very strong message. Moldova is at the heart of Europe. Moldova is Europe, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said upon her arrival in the capital. The attendance of heavy hitters like German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and von der Leyen speaks to the commitment of ensuring Russias ambitions to control Moldova don't go unchallenged. In Chisinau, and on the 35-kilometer (21-mile) route to the rural summit venue in Bulboaca, roads were being resurfaced, crosswalks painted and EU flags hung in anticipation of the arrival of the heads of state and government from European Union countries and other continental nations. Russia is chronically critical of Moldovas lean toward the West, claiming this presents security concerns and shows the hegemonic intentions of the United States and its allies in the EU. Last week, after the deployment of the EU Partnership Mission to Moldova, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Gazulin said that the EU seeks to consolidate the pro-Western course pursued by the current leadership of Moldova (and) set up the country for confrontation with Russia, ignoring the interests and mood of the population. The increase in cooperation between Chisinau and NATO and the EU in the military-political sphere, of course, cannot but cause us concern, Gazulin said in an interview with state news agency RIA-Novosti. Von der Leyen wasn't shy about highlighting Moldova's Western credentials and promised new financing and investment steps that would leverage around 1.6 billion euros for the nation. There has been consistent speculation that Russia would use the war in Ukraine as a bridgehead for taking control of Moldovas separatist region of Transnistria, where Russia already has a military contingent. On Monday, the head of the defense committee in the upper house of the Russian parliament, Viktor Bondarev, called for strengthening Russias military presence in Transnistria, along with other places, citing the growing malign influence of the United States in the region. Moldovan President Maia Sandu has warned of plots by Moscow to overthrow her government using external saboteurs. Several incidents have also occurred in recent months involving missiles that have traversed Moldova's skies and apparent debris from the war in Ukraine that has been found on its territory. Sandu has called the summit a testament to growing unity on the (European) continent, while Moldovan officials have pointed to the summits venue at Mimi Castle, an opulent late-19th-century winery only around 12 miles (20 kilometers) from both Ukraine and Transnistria, as a defiant signal of the EUs dedication to the region in the face of Russias aggression. The summit is a "resolute reaffirmation of our unwavering dedication to peace, a strong condemnation of Russias invasion (and of Moldova's) continued solidarity with Ukraine, Sandu said. It is the second such meeting of the EPC, the brainchild of Macron, who envisioned it as a new space for political and security cooperation, cooperation in the energy sector, in transport, investments, infrastructures, the free movement of persons and in particular, of our youth. Yet while the war in Ukraine has served to boost unity between the EU and countries to its east, the unwieldy group of leaders won't be able to hide some of its internal conflicts. One major meeting is expected to include European Council President Charles Michel, Scholz and Macron, along with the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan, two Caucasian neighbor nations that have been fighting a war over a contested territory. Another lighting rod will be the recent flare-up in ethnic tensions between neighboring Serbia and Kosovo, whose leaders are also expected at the summit. The President of the European Commission was making a joint press appearance in Moldova's capital Chisinau, on the eve of a major summit of European leaders. "Moldova is at the heart of Europe. Moldova is Europe. And today and tomorrow, the whole of Europe is Moldova," von der Leyen said. Moldova hopes that its hosting of dozens of leaders at Thursday's European Political Community (EPC) summit will showcase the strength of its European ambition. Russia's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine, and alleged attempts to destabilise Moldova itself, have focused minds in Chisinau on its EU membership bid, once seen as a long-term goal. Von der Leyen, a supporter of EU expansion, is due to report to EU capitals in October on the state of Moldova's progress in battling corruption and strengthening democratic structures. Ukraine wants formal negotiations on the terms on which the countries join the union to begin by the end of the year, and Von der Leyen's warm words will also give Moldova hope. "My final point is about Moldova's reforms to advance on the EU path. I can clearly see that you are making big progress," von der Leyen told the joint news conference. "This is good to see and it's amazing and we will support you to advance even faster. "And this is why we will now significantly increase the number of staff of our EU delegation in Chisinau now," she said. "It's basically to support you in the development of the reforms but also to help you to build the administrative capacity that is necessary." Sandu told AFP earlier this month that she wanted Moldova to start formal membership talks in the coming months and to join as "soon as possible" to protect its fragile democracy. Speaking with von der Leyen on Wednesday, she thanked her for the "trust" Brussels had put in her pro-Western government and for assistance in carrying out reforms. "Our generation has the task to bring Moldova to the European family and to bring the European Union home," Sandu said. "And, dear Ursula, I have full confidence we will succeed." Some 47 leaders from inside and outside the EU have been invited to the Moldova summit, to discuss how to handle common strategic and security threats. Search Keywords: Short link: MUMBAI, India, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Perfios, the leading data and decisioning solution provider in India, proudly announces its recent accolades at the prestigious SamvAAd, a Sahamati event, for its outstanding implementation of two innovative use cases of Account Aggregator (AA) in the lending domain. Perfios was recognized for being a Technology service provider (TSP) for FIP/FIU modules to implement 'Cashflow based business loans with AA' for Axis Bank and 'Short-term digital loans with AA' for HDFC Bank, showcasing the company's commitment to revolutionizing financial institutions' lending processes. This year's SamvAAd-2023, the first-ever annual conference for the Account Aggregator ecosystem, was successfully conducted by Sahamati, an Alliance for the Account Aggregator Ecosystem. Over 900 delegates came from a range of sectors, including banking, mutual funds, insurance, microfinance, and fintech, for the one-day event. With its unwavering focus on providing cutting-edge solutions, Perfios has demonstrated its expertise and garnered appreciation from the industry for these two remarkable use cases. Today, Perfios is India's largest TSP for FIPs /FIUs with 70% of success rate across all AAs on its platform. The first awarded use case, 'Cash flow based business loans with AA,' Perfios by analyzing the cash flow patterns, enabled Axis Bank to make data-driven lending decisions, resulting in more accurate risk assessment and enhanced customer experiences leveraging on Anumati, a regulated AA. The implementation of this use case has brought significant efficiencies to Axis Bank's lending processes, ensuring quicker loan approvals and improved credit access for businesses. The second award-winning use case, 'Short-term digital loans with AA,' was implemented in partnership with HDFC Bank, one of India's largest private sector banks. Perfios along with Anumati leveraged Account Aggregation capabilities to enable HDFC Bank to offer seamless and instant short-term digital loans to its customers. By securely accessing and analyzing real-time financial data, Perfios empowered HDFC Bank to assess credit-worthiness rapidly and provide customized loan offers. This use case has not only streamlined the loan application process but has also expanded financial inclusion by making digital loans more accessible to a wider range of customers. Mr. Vinay Sathyanarayana, VP - Products, Perfios, delivered an insightful keynote session on 'Building the data pipeline. To fuel finance' at SamvAAd 2023. The session shed light on the evolution of data, reasons to invest in the Account Aggregator framework, and much more. Account Aggregation has emerged as a game-changing technology in the financial industry, allowing institutions to securely access and analyze customers' financial data from multiple sources. By harnessing this technology, Perfios has empowered banks to gain a holistic understanding of their customers' financial positions, resulting in more informed lending decisions, reduced risk exposure, and improved customer satisfaction. Commenting on the awards, Mr. Vinay Sathyanarayana, VP - Products, Perfios, said, "We are thrilled to be recognized for our contributions in leveraging Account Aggregation technology to transform lending processes. These awards reinforce our commitment to innovation and excellence in the financial technology space. We extend our gratitude to Axis Bank and HDFC Bank for their partnership and trust in Perfios." Perfios continues to push boundaries and collaborate with leading financial institutions to unlock the full potential of Account Aggregation technology. With its robust data and decisioning solutions, Perfios is revolutionizing lending processes, enabling faster loan approvals, and adding more use cases such as collections, monitoring, etc. driving financial inclusion in India. About Perfios Perfios is India's leading SaaS-based company that specializes in extracting, categorizing, and analyzing thousands of data types in real-time, helping financial institutions make real-time lending decisions by complying with privacy and compliance requirements. Going beyond being just a data aggregation and analytics company, Perfios has skillfully aligned its decade's worth of experience and expertise to successfully develop multiple product lines powered by its in-house state-of-the-art AI/ML based data engines. The company has extensive experience in data management and has leveraged this expertise to develop an InsurTech suite of solutions that cater to the Indian market. For more information about Perfios and its innovative solutions, please write to us at connect@perfios.com Contact: Gaurav Samdaria Phone Number: +91 9819802177 Email: connect@perfios.com Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088614/PerfiosSamvAAd.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2035248/PerfiosLogo.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 BENGALURU, India, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SPARSH Group of hospitals, one of the largest multi-speciality healthcare providers in Karnataka, has been ranked as the number 1 hospital in Orthopaedic care in Bengaluru. In a comprehensive survey conducted by NEB RESEARCH, which covered 10 cities across India, SPARSH emerged as the leading hospital in the field of Orthopaedics. The survey encompassed an extensive evaluation of top hospitals in various specializations, including Cardiology, Pediatrics, Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Neurology, Oncology, Pulmonology, Infertility, Liver Transplant, GI Surgery, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Organ Transplant, Ophthalmology, Urology, Nephrology, Neurosurgery, and Endocrinology and Diabetes. In addition to its top ranking in Orthopaedic care, SPARSH also ranked 8th in the category of Best Multispecialty Hospitals in Bengaluru. Under the leadership of Dr. Sharan Shivaraj Patil, SPARSH has emerged as a prominent healthcare institution in Karnataka. With a surgical career spanning over three decades and more than 15 years of experience as an entrepreneur, Dr. Patil has effectively transformed SPARSH from being a renowned orthopaedic hospital in the country to a highly regarded multi-specialty hospital. SPARSH now offers comprehensive medical and surgical care for patients across all age groups, ranging from neonates to the elderly. Commenting on the ranking, Dr. Sharan Shivaraj Patil, Chairman of SPARSH Group of Hospitals, said, "We are deeply honoured to be recognized as the best hospital for Orthopaedic care in Bengaluru. Year after year, SPARSH has consistently secured the top spot in Orthopaedics, showcasing the exceptional quality and expertise of our department. Moreover, we are thrilled to acknowledge that our efforts to build a similar level of talent and infrastructure across all other super speciality departments has been recognised. Our unique selling point lies in our unwavering commitment to prioritising our patients' needs. This recognition serves as a testament to our exceptional healthcare services and the dedication of our outstanding team, who embody our core values of Faith, Hope, and Love. "As we grow exponentially, we are investing heavily in education from internal training to offering more specialised courses and also in cutting edge technology which we see as the future of healthcare. I assure you that we will not rest on our laurels but will continue to push the envelope as we strive for excellence and ensure that we deliver the world's best standards of medical care in India," he added. Over the years, the name 'SPARSH' has become synonymous with the provision of exceptional orthopaedic care, earning international recognition and accolades in the field. Supported by a team of experienced orthopaedic experts, SPARSH has established itself as the preferred destination for addressing complex orthopaedic procedures. This team of experienced professionals is further complemented by the presence of interventional radiologists, top-notch neurosurgeons, vascular surgeons, and plastic surgeons, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient care. Furthermore, SPARSH Hospital has been known for its commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology in Orthopaedics and it has established itself as an early adopter in the field. With a focus on precision, faster recovery, and an enhanced patient experience, SPARSH uses the state-of-the-art Mako Robotic Arm for Joint Replacement Surgeries. This innovative technology empowers surgeons to achieve more predictable surgical outcomes with heightened accuracy. Irrespective of the condition one may be facing, be it age-related concerns, traumatic accidents, or sports-related injuries, the Department of Orthopaedics at SPARSH Hospital is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for each patient. With a focus on delivering state-of-the-art orthopaedic treatments, the orthopaedic surgeons at SPARSH bring forth their extensive training and experience gathered from across the globe. About SPARSH Group of hospitals SPARSH Group of hospitals is one of the largest multi-speciality healthcare providers in Karnataka. Over the span of the last 17 years, the group has crafted a niche for quality health care in South India. Under visionary leadership and strong management, SPARSH has evolved as the Centre of Excellence in over 35 specialities including Orthopaedic, Neuroscience, Organ transplants, Women and Children amongst many other super specialities. SPARSH has achieved many milestones and performed path breaking surgeries, winning many accolades and recognitions on the national and international front along the way. SPARSH has proven that India can provide the best medical treatment and care in the world and is emerging as the destination of choice for international patients from over 12 countries. Built on the core values of faith, hope and love, SPARSH has been diligently working towards making quality health care accessible to all. The Group, led by Dr. Sharan Patil, an eminent Orthopaedic surgeon and a renowned thought leader in his own right, believes that every person should be able to avail of excellent healthcare irrespective of their socio-economic background. State- of-the-art facilities, skilled doctors, nurses and supporting allied healthcare staff, including exceptional evidence-based, patient-centric care define the SPARSH Anubhava, which is our patient experience model. SPARSH now operates five healthcare facilities across Karnataka, three in Bengaluru and two others in Davanagere and Hassan, with two more multi-speciality hospitals on the anvil. SPARSH has successfully treated over 2 million happy patients and counting. For more details, visit, https://www.sparshhospital.com/ (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 New Delhi, May 31 (PTI) The government on Wednesday proposed to sell up to three per cent stake in Coal India Ltd through the offer for sale route from June 1. The Offer for Sale (OFS) will be open for retail and non-retail investors on June 1 and 2. The proposal is to offload 9.24 crore shares amounting to a stake of 1.5 per cent in the coal producer. Besides, there will be a green shoe option for selling an equal amount of stake in case of over subscription, according to a regulatory filing. At the closing price of Rs 241.20 apiece on BSE on Wednesday, the sale of 3 per cent stake in Coal India would be worth around Rs 4,400 crore. "The seller proposes to sell up to 9,24,40,924 equity shares of face value of Rs 10 each of the company (representing 1.50 per cent of the total paid-up equity share capital of the company) (base offer size), on June 1st and 2nd for retail investors and non retail investors," the filing said. There will be an option to additionally sell 9,24,40,924 (1.50 per cent) equity shares of the company, it added. Islamabad, May 31 (PTI) The Islamabad High Court on Wednesday will hear the bail plea of former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan in the Al Qadir Trust corruption case, as his previous bail has expired. On May 12, the court issued a directive prohibiting authorities from arresting Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party chief in various cases, including undisclosed ones, registered throughout the country until May 15. In the subsequent hearing, the court further extended the restriction on the arrest until May 31, the Dawn newspaper reported. The court will also hear two additional bail petitions of the former prime minister, concerning cases pertaining to a violation of section 144 during a rally held in Islamabad to show support for the judiciary, as well as the incidents of violence that occurred on May 9. Later on Wednesday, an accountability court will take up the bail plea of Imran Khans wife, Bushra Bibi, in the Al Qadir Trust case. As Khan is facing over 100 cases, Bushra is nominated in two cases -- Toshakhana (gifts) and the Al-Qadir Trust case. The Al-Qadir Trust case is about the setting up of Al-Qadir University for Sufism in the 2019 Sohawa area of Jhelum district of Punjab. The arrest of Khan on May 9 by the paramilitary Pakistan Rangers at the IHC premises triggered unrest in Pakistan. For the first time in Pakistan's history, the protesters stormed the army headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi and also torched the Corps Commander House in Lahore. Police put the death toll in violent clashes to 10 while Khan's party claims 40 of its workers lost their lives in the firing by security personnel. Khan was ousted from power in April last year after losing a no-confidence vote in his leadership, which he alleged was part of a US-led conspiracy targeting him because of his independent foreign policy decisions on Russia, China and Afghanistan. Seoul, May 31 (AP) North Korea's attempt to put the country's first spy satellite into space failed Wednesday in a setback to leader Kim Jong Un's push to boost his military capabilities as tensions with the United States and South Korea rise. After an unusually quick admission of failure, North Korea vowed to conduct a second launch after learning what went wrong with its rocket liftoff. It suggests Kim remains determined to expand his weapons arsenal and apply more pressure on Washington and Seoul while diplomacy is stalled. South Korea and Japan briefly urged residents to take shelter during the launch. The South Korean military said it was salvaging an object presumed to be part of the crashed North Korean rocket in waters 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of the southwestern island of Eocheongdo. Later, the Defense Ministry released photos of a white, metal cylinder it described as a suspected rocket part. A satellite launch by North Korea is a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban the country from conducting any launch based on ballistic technology. Observers say North Korea's previous satellite launches helped improve its long-range missile technology. North Korean long-range missile tests in recent years demonstrated a potential range that could reach all of the continental U.S., but outside experts say the North Korea still has some work to do to obtain functioning nuclear missiles. The newly developed Chollima-1 rocket was launched at 6:37 a.m. at the North's Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in the northwest, carrying the Malligyong-1 satellite. The rocket crashed off the Korean Peninsula's western coast after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages, the North's official Korean Central News Agency said. South Korea's military said the North Korean rocket had an abnormal flight before it fell in the water. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that no object was believed to have reached space. North Korean media said the country's space agency will investigate what it calls the serious defects revealed by the launch and conduct a second launch as soon as possible. It is impressive when the North Korean regime actually admits failure, but it would be difficult to hide the fact of a satellite launch failure internationally, and the regime will likely offer a different narrative domestically, Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, said. This outcome also suggests that Pyongyang may stage another provocation soon, in part to make up for today's setback. Adam Hodge, a spokesperson at the U.S. National Security Council, said in a statement that Washington strongly condemns the North Korean launch because it used banned ballistic missile technology, raised tensions, and risked destabilizing security in the region and beyond. The U.N. imposed economic sanctions on North Korea over its previous satellite and ballistic missile launches, but has not responded to recent tests because China and Russia, permanent council members now locked in confrontations with the U.S., have blocked attempts to toughen sanctions. Seoul's military said it boosted military readiness in coordination with the United States, and Japan said it prepared to respond to any emergency. The U.S. said it will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and the defense of South Korea and Japan. South Korea's capital, Seoul, issued alerts over public loudspeakers and cellphone text messages telling residents to prepare for evacuation after the launch was detected, and Japan activated a missile warning system for Okinawa prefecture in southwestern Japan, in the rocket's suspected path. Please evacuate into buildings or underground, the Japanese alert said. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada said Japan plans to keep missile defense systems deployed to its southern islands and in southwestern waters until June 11, which is the end of North Korea's announced launch window. KCNA didn't provide details of the rocket and the satellite beyond their names. But experts earlier said North Korea would likely use a liquid-fuelled rocket as most of its previously tested long-range rockets and missiles have done. Though it plans a fuller investigation, the North's National Aerospace Development Administration attributed the failure to the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system applied to (the) carrier rocket and the unstable character of the fuel, according to KCNA. On Tuesday, Ri Pyong Chol, a top North Korean official, said the North needed a space-based reconnaissance system to counter escalating security threats from South Korea and the United States. However, the spy satellite disclosed in the country's state-run media earlier didn't appear to be sophisticated enough to produce high-resolution imagery. Some outside experts said it may still be able to detect troop movements and large targets such as warships and warplanes. Recent commercial satellite imagery of the North's Sohae launch center showed active construction indicating North Korea plans to launch more than one satellite. In his Tuesday statement, Ri also said North Korea would test various reconnaissance means" to monitor moves by the United States and its allies in real time. With three to five spy satellites, North Korea could build a space-based surveillance system that allows it to monitor the Korean Peninsula in near real-time, according to Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Korea's Science and Technology Policy Institute. The satellite is one of several high-tech weapons systems that Kim has publicly vowed to introduce. Other weapons on his wish list include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. In his visit to the space agency in mid-May, Kim emphasized the strategic significance of a spy satellite in North Korea's standoff with the United States and South Korea. Easley, the professor, said Kim has likely increased pressure on his scientists and engineers to launch the spy satellite as rival South Korea successfully launched its first commercial-grade satellite aboard the domestically-built Nuri rocket earlier this month. South Korea is expected to launch its first spy satellite later this year, and analysts say Kim likely wants his country to launch its spy satellite before the South to reinforce his military credentials at home. After repeated failures, North Korea successfully put its first satellite into orbit in 2012, and the second one in 2016. The government said both are Earth-observation satellites launched under its peaceful space development program, but many foreign experts believed both were developed to spy on rivals. Observers say there has been no evidence that the satellites have ever transmitted imagery back to North Korea. (AP) __ Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report. VM Damascus (Syria), May 31 (AP) An Israeli airstrike targeting positions of a Syria-backed Palestinian group in eastern Lebanon early on Wednesday killed five Palestinian militants and wounded 10 others, an official with the group said. Anwar Raja of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command, said the Israeli strike hit positions in the Lebanese eastern town of Qusaya near the border with Syria. He said two of the wounded are in critical condition. The PFLP-GC has positions along the Lebanon-Syria border as well as military presence in both countries. The group had carried out attacks against Israel in the past. (AP) FZH Dubai, May 31 (AP) The supreme leader of the Taliban met in Afghanistan with Qatar's prime minister this month, the first-such publicly known meeting between the Taliban's reclusive leader and a foreign official, the Al Jazeera satellite news network reported on Wednesday. Haibatullah Akhunzada met Qatar's Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on May 12 in Afghanistan's southern city of Kandahar, the spiritual birthplace of the Taliban, Al Jazeera said. Sheikh Mohammed also is the foreign minister of Qatar, an energy-rich nation on the Arabian Peninsula. The state-owned network did not specifically discuss what the two officials spoke about, though it described the meeting as aimed at ways to end the Taliban's international isolation. Qatari government officials declined to discuss the meeting, which Reuters first reported. The Taliban did not respond to requests for comment regarding the meeting. The US State Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. It's unclear, however, what effect such a meeting will have. The Taliban seized Afghanistan in August 2021 as US and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. In the time since, Afghanistan has become the most repressive in the world for women and girls, depriving them of virtually all their basic rights, according to the UN Hunger remains endemic. Taliban fighters also exchanged gunfire with Iranian border guards on Saturday. Qatar, which hosts a major US military base in the region, served as a crucial point for those fleeing the Taliban in the chaotic days of the American withdrawal from Afghanistan. Qatar also hosts a diplomatic post for the Taliban and hosted talks between the group and then-President Donald Trump's administration. (AP) PY PY Beijing, May 31 (AP) Beijing responded on Wednesday to complaints from the United States about a Chinese fighter jet's dangerous interception of an American Air Force reconnaissance aircraft in international airspace over the South China Sea by demanding an end to such flights. The incident adds to military, diplomatic and economic tensions between the sides over US support for self-governing Taiwan, China's refusal to engage in dialogue between their armed forces and Beijing's flying of a suspected spy balloon over the US. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters at a daily briefing on Wednesday that China would keep taking measures it deems necessary to safeguard its sovereignty. "The US should immediately stop these dangerous provocations," Mao said. The US Indo-Pacific Command called the Chinese plane's actions an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver, adding to complaints that China's military has become significantly more aggressive over the past five years, intercepting US aircraft and ships in the region. China says it owns the South China Sea virtually in its entirety, a claim not recognised internationally and directly challenged by nations along its coast including the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia. In a statement on Tuesday, the US military said the pilot of the Chinese J-16 fighter jet flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135 conducting routine operations in international airspace last Friday. Military-to-military contacts between the sides have all but evaporated in recent years amid a historic decline in governmental relations, even as trade and personal exchanges remain strong. Further dampening prospects for a reduction in tensions, China said its defence chief will not meet with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin when the two men attend a security conference in Singapore over the weekend. Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defence Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. China has said the US is entirely responsible for the breakdown in communications, but has not publicly given a reason. With its People's Liberation Army as the world's largest standing military, which answers directly to the ruling Communist Party, China frequently challenges military aircraft from the US and its allies in the South and East China Seas, and the Taiwan Strait connecting the two. Such behaviour led to a 2001 in-air collision between a Chinese fighter and US Navy surveillance plane in which the Chinese plane was lost and pilot killed. In Tuesday's statement, the Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, and expects all other countries to do the same. (AP) PY PY (This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI) Seoul, May 31 (AP) South Korea's military said a rocket launched by North Korea on Wednesday had an "abnormal flight," suggesting the launch may have failed. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said the rocket landed in waters off the Korean Peninsula's west coast. The chiefs of staff said South Korean and US authorities were analyzing the launch further. The launch came a day after North Korea said it would put its first military spy satellite into orbit. (AP) CK An Israeli airstrike targeting positions of a Palestinian group in eastern Lebanon early Wednesday killed five Palestinian and wounded 10 others, two Palestinian officials said. Anwar Raja of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command, told The Associated Press in Damascus that the Israeli strike hit positions in the Lebanese eastern town of Qusaya near the border with Syria. He said two of the wounded are in critical condition. Another PFLP-GC official, the Lebanon-based Abu Wael Issam, told the AP that his group will retaliate at the suitable time. He added that the strike will not deter his group from escalating the fight against the Israeli enemy. An Israeli official speaking on condition of anonymity denied the country had any role in the incident. Israel does not typically respond to foreign reports. The Lebanese army and Lebanon's militant Hezbollah group also had no immediate comment on the airstrike. Yet, a Lebanese security source, requesting anonymity, told AFP that "an old rocket exploded in an arms depot on the base and five fighters were killed." Asked about the Israel response, Raja attributed Israels denial to the sensitivity of the situation in Lebanon, a suggestion that any acknowledgement of a strike by Israel would push Hezbollah to retaliate. Israel launched strikes in southern Lebanon in April, a day after militants fired nearly three dozen rockets at Israel, wounding two Syrian workers and causing some property damage. The rockets fired at Israel at that time, were in resposne to the Israeli forces storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem and attcks on worshippers during Ramdan. The PFLP-GC has positions along the Lebanon-Syria border as well as military presence in both countries. The group had carried out attacks against Israel in the past. The militant group became known for major attacks against Israel, including the hijacking an El Al jetliner in 1968 and the machine gunning of another airliner at Zurich airport in 1969. In 1970, it planted a bomb on a Swissair jet that blew up on a flight from Zurich to Tel Aviv, killing all 47 passengers on aboard. The Damascus-based group also carried out attacks against Israel from its bases in Lebanon. During Israels invasion of Lebanon in 1985, the PFLP-GC captured three Israeli soldiers and negotiated their release in exchange for more than 1,100 mostly Palestinian, Lebanese and Syrian prisoners. Search Keywords: Short link: Zvecan (Kosovo), May 31 (AP) International efforts to defuse a crisis in Kosovo intensified on Wednesday as ethnic Serbs held more protests in a northern town where clashes with NATO-led peacekeepers earlier this week left dozens injured and sparked fears of renewed conflict in the troubled region. Hundreds of Serbs repeated at a rally that they want the Kosovo special police and ethnic Albanian officials they call fake mayors to withdraw from northern Kosovo where they are a majority. The crowd then spread a huge Serbian flag. Working to avert any escalation, European Union officials met with Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti on the sidelines of a conference in Bratislava, Slovakia, while the leaders of France and Germany announced plans to meet top Serbia and Kosovo officials on Thursday at a summit in Moldova. The current situation is dangerous and unsustainable, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. "We need urgent de-escalation." Speaking in Slovakia, Kurti flatly rejected Serb demands but left the door open for fresh local elections. As long as there is a violent mob outside the municipal buildings, we must have our special units, he said. If there would have been peaceful protests asking for early election, that would attract my attention and perhaps I would consider that request. Kurti also suggested that Russia may have a hand in the latest flareup, pointing to protesters who do graffiti with letter Z, showing admiration for despotic president Putin and for the Russian military aggression and invasion in Ukraine. Russia is a close Serbian ally although Belgrade populist leaders claim to be seeking European Union membership. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday that Moscow is monitoring the situation in Kosovo and spoke in support of the Serbs. We are following that, we are unconditionally supporting Serbia, supporting the Serbs, Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. We believe that all legitimate rights and interests of Kosovo Serbs must be observed and ensured." Wednesday's protest outside the city hall in Zvecan, 45 kilometers (28 miles) north of the capital, Pristina, ended peacefully. On Monday, ethnic Serbs tried to storm municipal offices and fought with both Kosovo police and the peacekeepers, leaving 30 NATO soldiers and 50 rioters injured. Serbs are a minority in Kosovo, but a majority in parts of the country's north bordering Serbia. Many reject the Albanian-majority territory's claim of independence from Serbia. A former province of Serbia, Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence is also not recognised by Belgrade. The United States and the European Union recently have stepped up efforts to solve the dispute as the war rages in Ukraine. NATO said it will send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests after the clashes on Monday. The NATO-led peacekeeping mission, KFOR, currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged all parties to take immediate actions to de-escalate tensions. Blinken described violence against soldiers from the multinational force known as KFOR as unacceptable. A German government spokesperson said Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron plan to meet with the leaders of Serbia and Kosovo on Thursday. Spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit told reporters in Berlin that the meeting will take place on the sidelines of the European Political Community meeting in Chisinau, Moldova. The confrontation first unfolded last week after ethnic Albanian officials, who were elected in a vote that Serbs overwhelmingly boycotted, entered municipal buildings to take office with an escort of Kosovo police. When Serbs tried to block the officials, Kosovo police fired tear gas to disperse them. In Zvecan on Monday, angry Serbs again clashed first with the police and later with NATO-led troops who tried to secure the area. Serbia put the country's military on its highest state of alert and sent more troops to the border with Kosovo. While Washington and most EU nations recognise Kosovo's statehood, Belgrade has the backing of Russia and China in rejecting it. Western officials have sharply criticised both Kosovo's authorities for pushing to install the newly-elected mayors, and Serbs because of the violence. The Government of Kosovo's decision to force access to municipal buildings sharply and unnecessarily escalated tensions, said Blinken. He urged Kosovo to use alternate locations for the new mayors and withdraw police from the vicinity of the municipal buildings. Serbia, he said, should lower its army's alert level and make sure KFOR troops are not attacked. Both Kosovo and Serbia should immediately recommit to engaging in the EU-facilitated Dialogue to normalise relations, said Blinken. In Pristina, US Ambassador to Kosovo Jeff Hovenier said Kosovo's participation in the Defender Europe 23 military drills has been cancelled. The exercises involve some 2,800 US troops and 7,000 soldiers from other nations including Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece and Turkiye. French President Macron also criticised Kosovo for organizing the municipal election in the country's north. He said Kosovo disrespected an EU-backed plan to normalise ties between former war foes. Very clearly, the Kosovar authorities are responsible for the current situation, and for failing to respect an agreement that was important and that was sealed just a few weeks ago, he said. Serbia's Defence Minister on Wednesday told state broadcaster RTS that the security situation is highly risky because of one-sided, illegal, illegitimate decisions by the administration in Pristina". First of all, we should name it properly and try to define it as an occupation of the north of Kosovo by the Albanian administration in Pristina, said Vucevic. Serbian officials have repeatedly warned that Serbia would not stand idle if Serbs in Kosovo come under attack. The 1998-1999 war in Kosovo erupted when ethnic Albanian separatists launched a rebellion against Serbia, which responded with a brutal crackdown. The war ended after NATO bombing forced Serbia to pull out of the territory, and paved the way for the deployment of NATO-led peacekeepers. The Balkan region is still reckoning with the aftermath of a series of bloody conflicts in the 1990s during the violent breakup of the former country of Yugoslavia. On Wednesday, United Nations judges imposed increased sentences for two allies of former Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic, who were convicted of an attempt to drive non-Serbs out of towns in Croatia and Bosnia during the wars in the 1990s. Milosevic also led Serbia during its 1998-1999 war in Kosovo. (AP) PY PY Vienna, May 31 (AP) Iran has resolved two outstanding inquiries of the International Atomic Energy Agency, a report seen Wednesday by The Associated Press said. The confidential quarterly report by the Vienna-based IAEA said inspectors no longer had questions on uranium particles found to be enriched to 83.7% at its underground Fordo facility. The report said investigators also have closed off their investigation of traces of man-made uranium found at Marivan, near the city of Abadeh, some 525 kilometers (325 miles) southeast of Tehran. Analysts had repeatedly linked Marivan to Iran's secret military nuclear program and accused Iran of conducting high-explosives tests there in the early 2000s. Iran on Tuesday had said international inspectors closed off the two lines of inquiry over its nuclear program. The report comes as tensions between Iran and the West have escalated over its nuclear program. Tehran also has faced mass protests recently and anger from the West over it arming Russia with bomb-carrying drones now targeting Ukraine. (AP) NSA NSA Vienna, May 31 (AP) Iran has resolved two outstanding inquiries of the International Atomic Energy Agency, a report seen Wednesday by The Associated Press said. The confidential quarterly report by the Vienna-based IAEA said inspectors no longer had questions on uranium particles found to be enriched to 83.7% at its underground Fordo facility. The report said investigators also have closed off their investigation of traces of man-made uranium found at Marivan, near the city of Abadeh, some 525 kilometers (325 miles) southeast of Tehran. Analysts had repeatedly linked Marivan to Iran's secret military nuclear program and accused Iran of conducting high-explosives tests there in the early 2000s. Iran on Tuesday had said international inspectors closed off the two lines of inquiry over its nuclear program. The report comes as tensions between Iran and the West have escalated over its nuclear program. Tehran also has faced mass protests recently and anger from the West over it arming Russia with bomb-carrying drones now targeting Ukraine. Iran's 2015 nuclear deal limited Tehran's uranium stockpile to 300 kilograms (661 pounds) and enrichment to 3.67% enough to fuel a nuclear power plant. The U.S.' unilateral withdrawal from the accord in 2018 set in motion a series of attacks and escalations by Tehran over its program. Iran has been producing uranium enriched to 60% purity a level for which nonproliferation experts already say Tehran has no civilian use. The IAEA report also estimated that as of May 13, Iran's total enriched uranium stockpile was at 4,744.5 kilograms (10,460 pounds). Of that, 114.1 kilograms (251 pounds) is enriched up to 60% purity, a short, technical step to weapons-grade levels. The last IAEA estimate in February put Iran's uranium stockpile at some 3,760 kilograms (8,289 pounds). Of that, 87.5 kilograms (192 pounds) was enriched up to 60% purity. While the IAEA's director-general has warned that Iran now has enough uranium to produce several bombs, months more would likely be needed to build a weapon and potentially miniaturize it to put it on a missile. The U.S. intelligence community has maintained its assessment that Iran isn't pursuing an atomic bomb. (AP) NSA Zvecan (Kosovo), May 31 (AP) International efforts to defuse a crisis in Kosovo intensified Wednesday as ethnic Serbs held more protests in a northern town where recent clashes with NATO-led peacekeepers sparked fears of renewed conflict in the troubled region. Hundreds of Serbs repeated at a rally their demand for the withdrawal from northern Kosovo of the special police and ethnic Albanian officials who were elected to mayor's offices in votes overwhelmingly boycotted by Serbs. The crowd then spread a huge Serbian flag outside the city hall in the town of Zvecan. The rising tensions have fueled concern about another war like the 1998-99 fighting in Kosovo that claimed more than 10,000 lives, left more than 1 million people homeless and resulted in a NATO peacekeeping mission that has lasted nearly a quarter of a century. Working to avert any escalation, European Union officials met with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti on the sidelines of a conference in Bratislava, Slovakia. The leaders of France and Germany announced plans to meet top Serbia and Kosovo officials on Thursday at a summit in Moldova. The current situation is dangerous and unsustainable, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. "We need urgent de-escalation." Speaking in Slovakia, Kurti flatly rejected Serb demands but left the door open for fresh local elections. As long as there is a violent mob outside the municipal buildings, we must have our special units, he said. If there would have been peaceful protests asking for early election, that would attract my attention, and perhaps I would consider that request. Kurti also suggested that Russia may have a hand in the latest flare-up, pointing to protesters who do graffiti with letter Z" and show admiration for despotic Russian President Vladimir Putin and for the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Russia is a close Serbian ally, although Belgrade populist leaders claim to be seeking European Union membership. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday that Moscow is monitoring the situation and supporting all legitimate rights and interests of Kosovo Serbs." Wednesday's protest in Zvecan, 45 kilometers (28 miles) north of the capital, Pristina, ended peacefully. On Monday, ethnic Serbs tried to storm municipal offices and fought with both Kosovo police and the peacekeepers, leaving 30 NATO soldiers and 50 rioters injured. A former province of Serbia, Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence is recognized by Washington and most EU nations but not by Belgrade, Russia or China. Serbs are a minority in Kosovo, but they constitute a majority in parts of the country's north bordering Serbia. Many reject the Albanian-majority territory's claim of independence. The United States and the European Union recently stepped up efforts to solve the dispute. NATO said it will send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests after the clashes on Monday. The NATO-led peacekeeping mission known as KFOR currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. A German government spokesperson said Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron plan to meet Thursday with the leaders of Serbia and Kosovo. Spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit told reporters in Berlin that the meeting will take place on the sidelines of the European Political Community meeting in Chisinau, Moldova. The confrontation first unfolded last week after ethnic Albanian officials entered municipal buildings to take office with an escort of Kosovo police. When Serbs tried to block the officials, Kosovo police fired tear gas to disperse them. In Zvecan on Monday, angry Serbs again clashed first with the police and later with NATO-led troops who tried to secure the area. Serbia put the country's military on its highest state of alert and sent more troops to the border with Kosovo. Western officials have sharply criticized both Kosovo authorities for pushing to install the newly elected mayors and Serbs because of the violence. The Kosovo government's "decision to force access to municipal buildings sharply and unnecessarily escalated tensions, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said. He urged Kosovo to use alternate locations for the new mayors and withdraw police from the vicinity of the municipal buildings. Serbia, he said, should lower its army's alert level and make sure KFOR troops are not attacked. French President Macron also criticized Kosovo for organizing the municipal election in the country's north. He said Kosovo disrespected an EU-backed plan to normalize ties between former war foes. Very clearly, the Kosovar authorities are responsible for the current situation and for failing to respect an agreement that was important and that was sealed just a few weeks ago, he said. Serbia's defense minister on Wednesday told state broadcaster RTS that the security situation is highly risky because of one-sided, illegal, illegitimate decisions by the administration in Pristina." He referred to the occupation of the north of Kosovo. Serbian officials have repeatedly warned that Serbia would not stand idle if Serbs in Kosovo come under attack. Meanwhile in Pristina, the U.S. ambassador to Kosovo, Jeff Hovenier, said Kosovo's participation in the Defender Europe 23 military drills has been canceled. The exercises involve some 2,800 U.S. troops and 7,000 soldiers from other nations, including Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece and Turkey. The 1998-1999 war in Kosovo erupted when ethnic Albanian separatists launched a rebellion against Serbia, which responded with a brutal crackdown. The war ended after NATO bombing forced Serbia to pull out of the territory. The Balkan region is still reckoning with the aftermath of a series of bloody conflicts in the 1990s during the violent breakup of the former country of Yugoslavia. On Wednesday, United Nations judges imposed increased sentences for two allies of former Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic who were convicted of an attempt to drive non-Serbs out of towns in Croatia and Bosnia during the wars in the 1990s. Milosevic also led Serbia during its 1998-1999 war in Kosovo. (AP) NSA NSA Latur district have arrested an accused in the alleged embezzlement of about Rs 23 crore from government accounts, taking the total arrests in the case to three, an official said on Wednesday. A team of policemen dressed up like doctors and arrested him last week from a hospital in Aurangabad where he had come to meet a relative, he said. A case was registered in January on a complaint by Latur Tehsildar Mahesh Parandekar after it emerged that Rs 22.87 crore had been illegally transferred out of government accounts with the help of forged signatures between 2015 and 2022. The first information report (FIR) registered at Laturs MIDC police station named Manoj Phulboyane, a clerk in collectors office, his brother Arun, Sudhir Devkate, and Chandrakant Gogde. While Manoj, the key accused, and Chandrakant were take into custody in January itself, Arun was arrested on May 25. Sudhir is still absconding, he said. Investigation officer Dilip Dolare said, Manoj transferred Rs 22.87 crore to various accounts, including the ones belonging to his brothers firms, by forging the signatures of the tehsildar and tampering with the figures on cheques. He also withdrew Rs 4.5 crore in cash. The official said police got inputs that Arun would be visiting a relative at a hospital in Aurangabad. A team of policemen dressed up like doctors and remained stationed there. Once Arun was in the hospital, an officer called out his name. When he responded, he was caught by the apron-clad cops, he said. In his complaint, tehsilar Parandekar said that an order was issued to distribute funds under the governments Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan, a water conservation project. Accordingly, two demand drafts were given to water conservation officers to disburse the amounts of Rs 12,27,297 and Rs 41,06,610 through RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement). When relevant documents were submitted to the bank, it was found that the balance in the account was only Rs 96,559, police had said. An audit was then conducted through which an alleged embezzlement Rs 22.87 crore came to light, they said. Bhopal, May 31 (PTI) The Madhya Pradesh Congress on Wednesday alleged corruption in the Mahakal Lok corridor project in Ujjain city of the state and demanded an inquiry by a sitting high court judge into the "sub-standard" work carried out there. The demand comes after six out of the seven idols of 'Saptarishis' (seven sages) installed at the Mahakal Lok corridor collapsed due to gusty winds on Sunday. The Mahakal Lok corridor has been developed on the premises of Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain and its first phase was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October last year. Congress leaders Shobha Oza and former minister and legislator Sajjan Singh Verma held a press conference in Bhopal after visiting the site where the idols collapsed. "We demand that a sitting judge of the high court should investigate corruption and sub-standard work in the Mahakal Lok corridor project. We will submit all the proof and documents to the judge," Verma said. A team of the Congress on Tuesday visited the Mahakal Lok along with experts and idol makers, Oza said. "The experts said that the cost of idols was inflated by around 80 per cent," she said while accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government of indulging in rampant corruption. The Congress leaders said that the technical specifications meant for the idols were not fulfilled in the construction work, which resulted into the incident. They said that the work was hurriedly completed so that PM Modi could inaugurate it in October last year. Due to corruption and sub-standard work, the idols fell even during a mild storm, they said. The Congress leaders also accused that Chinese material was used in the construction of the idols and the Mahakal Lok corridor. On the one hand, the BJP opposes usage of Chinese material, while on the other it uses the same in the temple work, they said. Although the fallen idols are being repaired for reinstallation, these damaged idols should not be put up again there, they added. BJP leader and Minister for Urban Development Bhupendra Singh denied all the allegations and said in a tweet, "The Congress which is doing dirty politics regarding Mahakal Lok should remember that the minister in-charge of Ujjain was Sajjan Singh Verma and he was present in the presentation where the tender of our BJP government came in for praise. His signature is also an proof of that. So what is their problem now?" "While the Congress leaders are making unrestrained allegations, why don't they give it in writing and make a complaint with an affidavit?" he said. The Congress, which is making charges of defects, had given its technical approval for the idols, he said. The broken idols will not be installed in the Mahakal Lok premises again, Singh said. "There will be new idols. The chief minister has also given instructions for this," he said. "For the Congress, religion is not a matter of faith, but an election event. When elections come, Congress starts dirty politics in the name of religion," he said. Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh are scheduled to be held by the end of this year. Mumbai, May 31 (PTI) The Mumbai police on Wednesday registered a case against two websites for alleged objectionable articles on 19th century social reformer Savitribai Phule, an official said here. The first information report (FIR) was registered against Indic Tales and Hindu Post under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 500 (punishment for defamation). Earlier in the day, leaders of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), including Ajit Pawar, Jayant Patil, Sunil Tatkare and Chhagan Bhujbal, along with party workers staged a protest outside the Mumbai police commissioner's office demanding action against two websites for alleged objectionable articles on Savitribai Phule. Later, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde directed officials to verify the content and take action accordingly. The CM said those who resort to writing objectionable content against icons will not be spared. A letter signed by Pawar, Patil and Bhujbal to the city police chief claimed that Indic Tales and Hindu Post websites have posted objectionable articles against Phule, regarded as a pioneer in the field of female education. The letter alleged the act was done with a purpose to incite people. On Monday, Bhujbal wrote a letter to CM Shinde, seeking action against a website and an author of an allegedly offensive article on Phule. Ranchi, May 31 (PTI) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday interrogated Congress MLA Pradeep Yadav as part of its investigation into a money laundering case, officials said. The agency on Tuesday had conducted searches at a dozen locations in Jharkhand linked to Yadav, a five-time legislator from the Poraiyahat seat and deputy leader of the Congress in the assembly, they said. After the questioning, the MLA said he will soon approach the court over the ED action. He claimed the ED found nothing objectionable in its raids so far. Yadav alleged that the BJP was using central agencies to target the opposition leaders. Fifty-seven-year-old Yadav and another MLA's premises were raided by the Income Tax Department last year as part of a tax evasion probe against some business groups engaged in coal trading and transportation, extraction of iron ore and production of sponge iron in Jharkhand. The money laundering investigation stems from this tax case, officials added. Imphal, May 31 (PTI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Wednesday morning visit the India-Myanmar border town of Moreh in Manipur's Tengnoupal district where he will meet Kuki civil society groups, besides reviewing the security measures in place, Army sources said. Shah, who flew into Imphal on Monday night, will visit Kangpokpi district in the afternoon, and will meet various groups there as well, they said. Meanwhile, incidents of gunfight between militants and security forces were reported from Sugnu in Kakching district overnight, officials said. "Firing also took place at Sagolmang in Imphal East where a civilian was injured in an attack by militants," they said. As part of his mission to broker a lasting peace in the troubled state, Shah met a cross-section of Kuki and Meitei leaders on Tuesday, besides top security officers to seek a solution to the spate of ethnic clashes that have rocked the state. He also held an all-party meeting in the evening. Shah is accompanied by Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Director of the Intelligence Bureau Tapan Kumar Deka on the trip. Ethnic clashes broke out in the state nearly a month ago after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. After a relative lull for over a fortnight, the state witnessed a sudden spurt in clashes, and gunfight between militants and security forces on Sunday. So far, over 80 people have been killed in the violence, according to officials. Shillong, May 31 (PTI) The Meghalaya government has reconstituted a committee to review the state reservation policy in the backdrop of an indefinite hunger strike launched by the opposition Voice of the People's Party (VPP) seeking changes to the existing reservation formula, an official said on Wednesday. The committee was reconstituted on Tuesday and will hold a meeting with political parties on the issue on Wednesday, he said. The committee will be headed by the state Law Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh. A final decision on the reservation policy will, however, be taken only after Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma holds a meeting, his deputy Sniawbhalang Dhar told PTI on Wednesday. "The issue is sensitive and needs to be discussed at length. However, it should not be discussed in the streets but across the table ... The government will take a decision with the best interests of the people and the state in mind," he said. The VPP is raking up the reservation issue, which does not have the support of the other parties, he claimed. The party is demanding the review of the "outdated and unfair" job reservation policy in existence in the state. A hunger strike by its president Ardent Basaiawmoit here, on the issue entered its ninth day on Wednesday. The party, which has four MLAs in the 60-member House, is demanding a review of the 40:40 job reservation for Khasi-Jaintia community and Garos. The party claims that the population of the Khasis has increased and hence there was a need for a review. The committee invited the agitating VPP MLAs for talks on Wednesday, which was promptly refused. Basaiawmoit said the agitation will be withdrawn only if the government expresses its readiness to review the 1972 job reservation policy which awarded 40 per cent of reserved jobs to Garos, 40 per cent for Khasi-Jaintia tribes, 5 per cent for other tribes and 15 per cent for general category candidates. "Our stand was made clear to the government. I will not leave the venue (of the hunger strike) till the government agrees to review the job reservation policy", he said. Dhar criticised Basaiawmoit's absence at the all-political party meeting on Tuesday last week which was chaired by Sangma. A government-instituted committee on reservation roster had met on Monday too but the VPP and several organisations did not attend it. Lyngdoh said the committee will inform the government on the need for a discussion since there is a demand to review the reservation policy. New Delhi, May 31 (PTI) The Delhi Police on Wednesday said it has not found sufficient evidence to prove women wrestlers' allegations of sexual harassment against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and to arrest him. The police will submit a report in court within 15 days, a senior official said. "During the investigation so far, the police have not found sufficient evidence to arrest the WFI chief. There is also no supportive evidence to prove their (wrestlers) claim. A report will be submitted in court within 15 days which could be in the form of a charge sheet or final report," the officer said. The wrestlers, who had been protesting at Jantar Mantar since April 23 seeking the arrest of Singh, were removed from the site by the Delhi Police on Sunday after they tried to march to the new Parliament building that was inaugurated the same day. They were detained and later let off. Imphal, May 31 (PTI) Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday appealed to people to surrender arms looted from security forces. He also warned of legal action against anyone found to be in unauthorised and illegal possession of arms and ammunition. In a signed statement, the chief minister also appealed to all concerned in Manipur not to block roads and hinder the free movement of security personnel and relief material. Such roadblocks were making it extremely difficult for security and police personnel to respond to attacks by armed groups on time, Singh said. "I appeal to all persons concerned to return and surrender the arms and ammunition which have been snatched from armed police battalions, police stations, etc., in valley and hill districts to the nearest police station/MR/IRB, etc. at the earliest. "Legal action as per the Arms Act 1959 and Rules will be taken in case any person is found to be in unauthorised and illegal possession of arms and ammunition during combing operations by security personnel or otherwise," the chief minister said. Jammu, May 31 (PTI) The Army on Wednesday opened fire after noticing suspicious movements near the border fence along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. The firing was reported from forward Karmara village in Gulpur sector around 4 am but there was no immediate report of any casualty, the officials said. They said the Army troops engaged in firing by small arms following suspicious movements of some people who were trying to sneak into this side from across the border. The whole area was cordoned off and a search operation was underway when last reports were received, the officials said. New Delhi, May 31 (PTI) The Delhi Police on Wednesday recreated the scene of crime at the same bylane in northwest Delhi's Shahbad Dairy where 20-year-old Sahil killed a minor girl, officials said. Sixteen-year-old Sakshi was stabbed over 20 times and then bludgeoned with a cement slab, killing her on the spot. She was found to have 34 injury marks on her body and her skull was smashed in. Sahil was arrested from Bulandshahar in Uttar Pradesh on Monday. He was taken to the spot in the early hours of Wednesday, the police said. "Due to security concerns, Sahil was taken to the spot in the early hours of Wednesday morning. We recreated the scene of the crime to understand and establish the sequence of events and how he executed the crime and what he did thereafter," a senior police officer. Sahil allegedly threw away the knife used to kill Sakshi into the bushes in Rithala. It is yet to be recovered, he said. The police had earlier said Sahil got drunk on Sunday afternoon and in the evening confronted Sakshi, who was on her way to the birthday party of her friend's child after changing clothes in a public convenience. After killing her, Sahil went to a nearby park and sat there for a while. Later, he went to the metro station at Rithala where he claimed to have thrown the knife in the nearby bushes. He then took a bus to Bulandshahr from the Anand Vihar ISBT, the police said. A call to his home led to his arrest. On Tuesday, Sahil was produced at a Delhi court here which sent him in police remand for two days. New Delhi, May 31 (PTI) The Municipal Corporation of Delhi will explore the possibility of transforming cow shelters into "profit centres" to curtail the issue of stray cattle, while generating revenue and employment opportunities from them, Mayor Shelly Oberoi said on Wednesday. Chairing a meeting with the representatives from the Global Confederation of Cow-based Industries (GCCI) and other officials, Oberoi highlighted the need to harness the economic potential of cow products and find sustainable solutions on the menace of stray cattle, a statement said. "The conversion of gaushalas into profit centres would not only provide a solution to the stray cattle issue but also create a new avenue for revenue generation and employment opportunities for MCD, reducing the financial burden to existing strained resources," the statement read. GCCI is an organisation known for its stakeholder collaboration initiatives and skill development measures in converting cow dung and urine into various saleable products, such as building materials, tiles, fertilisers, CNG, electricity, papers, and cow dung logs, the Mayor's office said. MCD Commissioner Gyanesh Bharti said the municipal corporation had previously worked on a similar proposal, but it could not materialise due to certain limitations. However, with the new information and technological advancements presented by GCCI, officials would rework on the proposal and explore innovative ways to leverage new technologies for the benefit of cow shelters, he said. Key stakeholders, including MCD Commissioner Bharti, Leader of House Mukesh Goyal, Additional Commissioner Sakshi Mittal, and senior MCD officials were present at the meeting, the statement read. New Delhi, May 30 (PTI) The Delhi government on Tuesday provided an honorarium of Rs 1 crore to the family of a nurse who lost her life to COVID-19 while serving as a frontline warrior during the pandemic. Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj met with the family of Gayatri Sharma, who had been serving as a nurse (ANM) at GTB Hospital since 1998 and was due to retire in January 2024. She was posted on duty at Ghazipur Health Centre during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bharadwaj said, "Throughout her many years of service in the health department, she remained dedicated to serving the people. While the value of her life cannot be measured, this honorarium is a tribute from the Kejriwal government to the sacrifices made by the Corona warriors." Gayatri Sharma is survived by her husband, Yajnadatt Sharma, and a son and a daughter. Daughter Megha is pursuing post-graduation, while son Gautam is studying at Hindu College, according to an official statement issued by the health department. Prayagraj, May 31 (PTI) The Allahabad High Court on Wednesday rejected a plea challenging the maintainability of a suit filed by five Hindu women seeking permission for regular worship of Shringar Gauri and other deities in Varanasi's Gyanvapi mosque compound. Justice J J Munir dismissed the mosque management committee's revision petition. The committee had filed the petition in the high court against the order of the district judge of Varanasi in September last year that turned down its objections on the maintainability of the suit filed by the five Hindu women. The suit filed in August 2021 sought permission for daily worship at Maa Shringar Gauri Sthal in the Gyanvapi complex. New Delhi, May 31 (PTI) A court here has criticised the Delhi Police for serving summonses on public witnesses only through WhatsApp and referred the matter to the deputy commissioner of police, west district, for appropriate action". Additional Sessions Judge Hem Raj was hearing a murder case registered by the Punjabi Bagh police station which was at the stage of prosecution evidence. Noting that one of the prosecution witnesses was absent and did not respond to repeated calls, the judge said the Delhi Police Commissioner had issued a standing order in February last year regarding the service of summons upon the witnesses. The judge also noted in another case, a letter was received from the DCP (west) stating there is no circular from Delhi Police to serve the summons on WhatsApp. "Earlier also, this court has noted in several cases that the witnesses are being served by the police officials on WhatsApp...," the judge said. He said police officials are still adopting the practice of service upon public witnesses "only on Whatsapp". "They are not taking pains to visit the house of the witnesses which they are supposed to. The police officials cannot make a single attempt to visit the house of the witness, rather they are supposed to make at least three visits," the judge said. The court said while the head constable concerned made "no efforts" to serve the summons, the inspector concerned forwarded the report regarding the summons which showed "lackadaisical application of mind." "It seems that despite the directions from the DCP in the form of circulars and the standing order, the in-chargeof the police stations and the inspector..., as well as SHOs, are not taking care to follow the same meticulously. They do not seem to have any respect whatsoever for the orders passed by their superior authorities," the court said. It then directed a copy of the order along with the letter received earlier be sent to DCP (west) for perusal and "appropriate action." The court also issued a notice to the police officials concerned for their personal appearance to give an explanation as to why appropriate action be not taken against them under the provisions of the Delhi Police Act and the Indian Penal Code. New Delhi, May 31 (PTI) A new book, written by Shikha Saxena -- wife of 1999 Kargil War hero Captain Akhilesh Saxena -- describes the largely overlooked turmoil endured by the families of military officers in the face of conflict. The detailed memoir, titled "Nation First", shows the boundless bravery of the Indian troops as well as the emotional tumult experienced by their kin both during and after war. It is the story of a young couple, Shikha and Akhilesh, who unexpectedly found themselves in the midst of war, where the author depicts her personal experiences as well as those of her husband -- badly wounded in missions at Tololing, the Hump and Three Pimples. "The book contains first-hand and as-yet-undocumented information that reflects the mental status, emotions, and interactions of not just the Indian troops but also their families. This story showcases the value system of armed forces, and their courage to fight and defeat challenges on the battlefield and in life," the author said in a statement. Akhilesh is currently vice-president at Tata Communications, while Shikha is the founder and CEO of Inspiring Mantras, which conducts leadership programmes. The book's foreword is written by General VP Malik and Ranjana Malik, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and the President of the Army Wife Welfare Association (AWWA) during the Kargil War, respectively. "This is truly a first-of-its-kind book. Never have I seen such an inspirational military life story covered in such detail. It is not just a narration of first-hand experience but also an interesting insight into military traditions which build camaraderie, family support, an environment of strong patriotism and our military psychology," wrote the former COAS in the book. Touted to be a story of "grit, determination and heroic patriotism" by Hachette India, the book is endorsed by the likes of Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, veteran actor Anupam Kher and bestselling author Anand Neelakantan. While Gadkari called 'Nation First' a "remarkable book" on the human cost of war and the sacrifices it entails, Kher said the book brings to life the "bloodiest battles without losing sight of the tenderness of humanity". "I have read many books on war, but the way Shikha has narrated this electrifying story left me spellbound... This story can only be told by a person who has lived this reality and Shikha does it with great heart. This powerful memoir reminds us that courageous men in uniform are supported by the grace and poise shown by their families," wrote Gadkari in his praise for the book. The book, priced at Rs 399, is available for purchase across online and offline stores. Mangaluru, May 31 (PTI) Sleuths of National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted raids at 16 places belonging to the activists of PFI, a banned outfit, in Dakshina Kannada (DK) district early on Wednesday, sources said. Houses, offices and hospitals linked to the activists of the banned Popular Front of India (PFI) were searched simultaneously in Mangaluru as well as Puttur, Beltangady, Uppinangady, Venur and Bantwal. The raids are part of a probe into the plot of the banned organisation to attack PM Modi on July 12, 2022 at a rally in Bihar, they said. Kanpur (UP), May 30 (PTI) A woman climbed a 70-feet high water tank in Gujaini area here on Tuesday, demanding that her brothers be released from jail. The woman, identified as Afsana alias Ayesha (26), a resident of Dada Nagar, threatened to jump off the tank if her brothers were not released from jail, Assistant Commissioner of Police (Naubasta) Abhishek Kumar Pandey said. The woman alleged that police wrongfully arrested her brothers over her husband's murder a month ago. She claimed that she was forced to climb the water tank as no one heard her pleas. The woman stayed at the tank for a couple of hours and came down after assurance that her grievance will be addressed, Pandey said. The ACP, however, claimed that the woman's brothers were not innocent and they were sent to jail as police had concrete evidence against them. Srinagar, May 31 (PTI) Jammu and Kashmir has been allotted an additional 1.99 lakh houses under the 'Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojna-Gramin' (PMAY-G) by the Centre to saturate the 'AwaasPlus' permanent waiting list of the Union Territory during 2023-24, officials said on Wednesday. They said the newly targeted houses will be sanctioned by the Rural Development Department by June 30. The massive allocation for J-K by the Union Ministry of Rural Development, under the flagship scheme, is the highest across all UTs in India, an official spokesman said. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Rural Development Giriraj Singh for giving top priority to the Union Territory and fulfilling the dreams of lakhs of families. "Extremely grateful to Hon'ble PM Shri @narendramodi Ji & Union Minister @MoRD_GoI, Hon'ble Shri @girirajsinghbjp Ji for allotting PMAY(G) target of additional 1,99,550 houses in favour of J&K UT, which will be a momentous step towards achieving the objective of Housing for All," he said in a tweet. Lucknow, May 31 (PTI) Four members of a family were killed when a speeding SUV rammed into their scooty in Aliganj area of the state capital, police said on Wednesday. The accident took place on Tuesday night. The two-wheeler got stuck under the four wheeler and was dragged for some distance, police said. The four were rushed to the trauma centre of the King George's Medical University (KGMU) where they were declared dead. The deceased has been identified as Ram Singh (35), his 32-year-old wife and two children, aged 10 and 7, the police said. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed grief over the loss of lives in the road accident. Srinagar, May 31 (PTI) An FIR has been lodged against BJP leader and district development council (DDC) Srinagar member Aijaz Hussain Rather for alleged wrongful restraint and voluntarily causing hurt after two persons registered a complaint against him, police said on Wednesday. The police lodged the FIR on Tuesday after a complaint by Nazim Hussain Bhat and Imdad Ali Mir. On the basis of complaint lodged by Nazim Hussain Bhat & Imdad Ali Mir, FIR no 51/2023 u/s 323,341 of IPC dated 30.05.2023 registered in Panthachowk PS against DDC member Aijaz Hussain Rather on offences of wrongful restraint & voluntarily causing hurt, the Srinagar Police said on Twitter. Rather is the Member of Haj Committee of India, and the former National vice president of the partys youth wing Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM). He won the DDC elections from Srinagars Khonmoh seat one of the three seats the party managed from the Kashmir valley in 2020. Srinagar Mayor, Junaid Azim Mattu, had alleged Rather had assaulted a civilian from Balhama area of the city. A reign of TERROR has been unleashed on people of Balhama, Srinagar by the incumbent DDC Member belonging to @BJP4India! This is the second assault on a civilian by him in less than a month! Even WOMEN are being assaulted now under FULL security cover, Mattu alleged in a tweet. CAMERON CONWAY, Wheeler, Golf, junior; Conway earned medalist honors after shooting 37 in a match with Stonington. Wheeler beat the Bears avenging its only loss of the season to move to 18-1. JOSH MOONEY, Stonington, Boys Track, Mooney, Senior; Mooney broke the ECC championship meet record in the 300 hurdles as he also finished first in the 110 hurdles and javelin. The 300 hurdles record was 25 years old. MICHAEL POOLE, Westerly, Baseball, Sophomore; Poole threw a no-hitter with eight strikeouts in a 1-0 win against Woonsocket. Pooles counterpart, Woonsockets Jaden Violette, also tossed a no-hitter with 12 strikeouts. It was Pooles first no-hitter in high school. ELI SPOSATO, Chariho, Boys Track, Junior; Sposato became the first athlete in school history to run the 400 in less than 50 seconds. Sposato won the event at the Hendricken Invitational in 49.97 improving his own school record. Vote View Results For the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, four Jewish organizations attended a Wednesday morning Ramapo Police roll-call, including Chaverim of Rockland, Hatzolah of New Square, Hatzolah of Rockland, and New Square Ershte Hilf. Prior to the roll-call, representatives of the organizations met with Ramapo police officers and introduced themselves and their missions to them, outlining how they collaborate with emergency response teams and are the first to be called when police, fire, or EMS require additional manpower or other resources. Speakers at the roundtable meeting included Ramapo Town Supervisor Michael Specht; Chief Of Ramapo Police Martin Reilly; Coordinator Of Chaverim Of Rockland Yossi Margereten; Coordinator Of New Square Ershte Hilf; New Square Hatzolah Zevi Spitzer; and Coordinator of Rockland Hatzolah Abe Rosenberg. The four organizations have long held close ties with various local and state agencies, with law enforcement and emergency medical responders often turning to them for assistance. Our partnerships with community groups, such as Hatzolah, Chaverim, New Square Emergency Services and Kaser Public Safety are very important to the Town of Ramapo and the Ramapo Police Department, Chief Martin Reilly said following the meeting. By collaborating with each other, we can foster trust, build relationships and create an overall better environment for our residents. Our strong history of working well with these organizations contributes to a better quality of life for our residents. The members of these groups are true professionals and I thank them for their service and support, not only our police department, but for all who live and work in the Town of Ramapo. Thank you to all who attended todays meeting. I want to thank our community partners Hatzolah, Chaverim, New Square Emergency Services and Kaser Public Safety for meeting and providing training with our police today so that our officers understand the important work that these organizations do on behalf of the public, Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht. We are proud of the strong partnership between our police and our community and todays training will further fulfill the shared goals of protecting and serving our residents. Thank you to all the volunteers who selflessly serve every day to keep all of us safe. THIS STORY WAS FIRST PUBLISHED ON THE MONSEY SCOOP STATUS CLICK HERE SIGN UP TO THE MONSEY SCOOP WHATSAPP STATUS TO BE INFORMED OF MONSEY NEWS IN LIVE TIME (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Less than two months after he pleaded guilty to storming the U.S. Capitol, Texas resident Daniel Goodwyn appeared on Tucker Carlsons then-Fox News show and promoted a website where supporters could donate money to Goodwyn and other rioters whom the site called political prisoners. The Justice Department now wants Goodwyn to give up more than $25,000 he raised a clawback that is part of a growing effort by the government to prevent rioters from being able to personally profit from participating in the attack that shook the foundations of American democracy. An Associated Press review of court records shows that prosecutors in the more than 1,000 criminal cases from Jan. 6, 2021, are increasingly asking judges to impose fines on top of prison sentences to offset donations from supporters of the Capitol rioters. Dozens of defendants have set up online fundraising appeals for help with legal fees, and prosecutors acknowledge theres nothing wrong with asking for help for attorney expenses. But the Justice Department has, in some cases, questioned where the money is really going because many of those charged have had government-funded legal representation. Most of the fundraising efforts appear on GiveSendGo, which bills itself as The #1 Free Christian Fundraising Site and has become a haven for Jan. 6 defendants barred from using mainstream crowdfunding sites, including GoFundMe, to raise money. The rioters often proclaim their innocence and portray themselves as victims of government oppression, even as they cut deals to plead guilty and cooperate with prosecutors. Their fundraising success suggests that many people in the United States still view Jan. 6 rioters as patriots and cling to the baseless belief that Democrats stole the 2020 presidential election from Donald Trump. The former president himself has fueled that idea, pledging to pardon rioters if he is elected. Markus Maly, a Virginia man scheduled to be sentenced next month for assaulting police at the Capitol, raised more than $16,000 from an online campaign that described him as a January 6 P.O.W. and asked for money for his family. Prosecutors have requested a $16,000-plus fine, noting that Maly had a public defender and did not owe any legal fees. He should not be able to use his own notoriety gained in the commission of his crimes to capitalize on his participation in the Capitol breach in this way, a prosecutor wrote in court papers. So far this year, prosecutors have sought more than $390,000 in fines against at least 21 riot defendants, in amounts ranging from $450 to more than $71,000, according to the APs tally. Judges have imposed at least $124,127 in fines against 33 riot defendants this year. In the previous two years, judges ordered more than 100 riot defendants to collectively pay more than $240,000 in fines. Separately, judges have ordered hundreds of convicted rioters to pay more than $524,000 in restitution to the government to cover more than $2.8 million in damage to the Capitol and other Jan. 6-related expenses. More rioters facing the most serious charges and longest prison terms are now being sentenced. They tend to also be the prolific fundraisers, which could help explain the recent surge in fines requests. Earlier this month, the judge who sentenced Nathaniel DeGrave to more than three years in prison also ordered him to pay a $25,000 fine. Prosecutors noted that the Nevada resident incredibly raised over $120,000 in GiveSendGo fundraising campaigns that referred to him as Beijing Bidens political prisoner in Americas Gitmo a reference to the Guantanamo Bay detention center. He did this despite seeking to cooperate with the government and admitting he and his co-conspirators were guilty since at least November 2021, a prosecutor wrote. Lawyer William Shipley, who has represented DeGrave and more than two dozen other Jan. 6 defendants, said he advises clients to avoid raising money under the auspices of being a political prisoner if they intend to plead guilty. Until they admit they committed a crime, theyre perfectly entitled to shout from the rooftops that the only reason theyre being held is because of politics, Shipley said. Its just First Amendment political speech. Shipley said he provided the judge with documentation showing that DeGrave raised approximately $25,000 more than what he paid his lawyers. Ive never had to do it until these cases because Ive never had clients that had third-party fundraising like this, Shipley said. Theres a segment of the population that is sympathetic toward the plight of these defendants. GiveSendGo co-founder Heather Wilson said her sites decision to allow legal defense funds for Capitol riot defendants is rooted in our societys commitment to the presumption of innocence and the freedom for all individuals to hire private attorneys. The governments push for more fines comes as it reaches a milestone in the largest federal investigation in American history: Just over 500 defendants have been sentenced for Jan. 6 crimes. Judges arent rubber-stamping prosecutors fine requests. Prosecutors sought a more than $70,000 fine for Peter Schwartz, a Kentucky man who attacked police officers outside the Capitol with pepper spray and a chair. U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta sentenced Schwartz this month to more than 14 years in prison one of the longest so far in a Capitol riot case but didnt impose a fine. Prosecutors suspect Schwartz tried to profit from his fundraising campaign, Patriot Pete Political Prisoner in DC. But his lawyer, Dennis Boyle, said there is no evidence of that. The judge basically said that if the money was being used for attorneys fees or other costs like that, there was no basis for a fine, Boyle said. A jury convicted romance novel cover model John Strand of storming the Capitol with Dr. Simone Gold, a California physician who is a leading figure in the anti-vaccine movement. Now prosecutors are seeking a $50,000 fine on top of a prison term for Strand when a judge sentences him on Thursday. Strand has raised more than $17,300 for his legal defense without disclosing that he has a taxpayer-funded lawyer, according to prosecutors. They say Strand appears to have substantial financial means, living in a home that was purchased for more than $3 million last year. Strand has raised, and continues to raise, money on his website based upon his false statements and misrepresentations on the events of January 6, prosecutors wrote. Goodwyn, who appeared on Carlsons show in March, is scheduled to be sentenced next month. Defense lawyer Carolyn Stewart described prosecutors as demanding blood from a stone in asking for the $25,000 fine. He received that amount in charity to help him in his debt for legal fees for former attorneys and this for unknown reasons is bothersome to the government, Stewart wrote. (AP) Sam Bankman-Frieds lawyers made meritless arguments in a bid to convince a judge to toss out criminal charges alleging that the FTX founder stole from investors in his multibillion dollar cryptocurrency fund, federal prosecutors said Monday. In papers filed in Manhattan federal court, prosecutors responded to early May filings in which Bankman-Frieds lawyers insisted that the United States overreached in its case against Bankman-Fried, making federal crimes out of regulatory issues. These motions are meritless, prosecutors wrote in a nearly 100-page filing. The charges track the relevant statutes and the defendants alleged misconduct falls within the heartland of what these statutes prohibit. Bankman-Fried, 31, has been living with his parents in Palo Alto, California, after posting a $250 million personal recognizance bond after his December extradition from the Bahamas. Bankman-Fried has pleaded not guilty to charges that he cheated investors and looted customer deposits on FTX to make lavish real estate purchases, donate money to politicians and make risky trades at Alameda Research, his cryptocurrency hedge fund trading firm. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams has called it one of the biggest frauds in U.S. history. In March, new charges added to the indictment alleged that Bankman-Fried violated the anti-bribery provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act by directing the payment of $40 million in bribes to a Chinese official or officials to free up $1 billion in cryptocurrency that was frozen in early 2021. In requesting all charges be dismissed, defense lawyers said eight counts in the original indictment were too vague and non-specific to proceed to trial and that additional charges were barred by an Extradition Treaty between the U.S. and the Bahamas that prohibited charges not approved at the time of extradition. Prosecutors, though, asked Judge Lewis A. Kaplan to let all charges proceed. They said the claims against the original charges were legally sufficient and that permission is being sought from the Bahamas to permit the newest charges. Prosecutors wrote that they expect Bankman-Frieds lawyers to argue at trial that their client was not involved in Alamedas day-to-day activities and was unaware that Alameda borrowed large sums from FTX to repay its lenders. The defendants spending of misappropriated funds on political donations is probative of the defendants motive for defrauding FTXs customers and investors: the defendant wanted access to capital that he could use, in part, for political donations that would burnish his own image and improve the regulatory prospects of his business in the United States, prosecutors wrote. FTX entered bankruptcy in November when the global exchange ran out of money after the equivalent of a bank run. A trial is tentatively set for the fall. Attorneys for Bankman-Fried did not respond late Monday to emailed requests for comment. (AP) The U.S. Coast Guard said Tuesday that its searching for a man who fell from a cruise ship off the coast of Florida. The 35-year-old passenger fell from the Carnival Magic ship about 185 miles (300 kilometers) east of Jacksonville on Monday, the service said in a statement. Aircraft and ships are being used in the search. The mans companion reported him missing late Monday afternoon, the statement said. It said security footage on the ship shows that the man leaned over the railing of his stateroom balcony and dropped into the water around 4 a.m. Carnival said the Coast Guard released the ship from search efforts and told the captain to head back to port in Norfolk, Virginia. The ship can hold nearly 4,000 guests and is about 1,000 feet (300 meters) long. (AP) NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Tuesday that the military organization will send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests after clashes with ethnic Serbs there left 30 international soldiers wounded. We have decided to deploy 700 more troops from the operational reserve force for Western Balkans, Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo, after talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store. He said that NATO would also put an additional battalion of reserve forces on high readiness so they can also be deployed if needed. These are prudent steps. A battalion typically ranges from 300 to around 1,000 troops. The NATO-led peacekeeping mission, KFOR, currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. Earlier Tuesday, KFOR peacekeepers used metal fences and barbed wire barriers to beef up positions in a hot-spot northern town. The troops sealed off the municipality building in Zvecan where unrest on Monday sent tensions soaring, raising fears of instability and flareup in the Balkan hotspot amid increased Western efforts to resolve a long-simmering dispute. Kosovo is a former province of Serbia whose 2008 declaration of independence Belgrade does not recognize. Ethnic Albanians make up most of the population, but Kosovo has a restive Serb minority in the north of the country bordering Serbia. Stoltenberg condemned the violence, saying that such attacks are unacceptable and must stop. He warned that NATO troops will take all necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens in Kosovo. He urged both sides to take steps to deescalate, refrain from further irresponsible behavior, and to return to EU-backed talks on improving relations. The United States and most European Union nations have recognized Kosovos independence from Serbia while Russia and China have sided with Belgrade. China on Tuesday expressed its support for Serbias efforts to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity and Moscow has repeatedly criticized Western policies in the dispute. Tensions first increased over the past weekend, after ethnic Albanian officials elected in votes overwhelmingly boycotted by Serbs entered municipal buildings. When the Serbs tried to block them, Kosovo police fired tear gas to disperse the crowd. In response, Serbia put the countrys military on the highest state of alert and sent more troops to the border with Kosovo. The Serbs protested again on Monday, insisting both ethnic Albanian mayors and Kosovo police must leave northern Kosovo. The confrontations worsened when Serbs attempted to enter the municipal offices in Zvecan, 45 kilometers (28 miles) north of the capital Pristina. They clashed first with Kosovo police and then with the international peacekeepers who deployed in Zvecan. The flareup has triggered a flurry of international efforts to calm the situation. The United States and the EU recently have stepped up efforts to negotiate an agreement between Serbia and Kosovo, fearing instability as Russias war rages in Ukraine. The EU has made it clear to both Serbia and Kosovo that they must normalize relations if theyre to make any progress toward joining the bloc. We have too much violence in Europe already today. We cannot afford another conflict, the EUs foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, told reporters in Brussels on Tuesday. He urged Belgrade and Pristina to urgently take measures to de-escalate tensions immediately and unconditionally. As a first step, he said, Kosovo police should suspend the operation focusing on municipal buildings in the north and violent protesters should stand down. In response to recent unrest, NATO has decided to increase its KFOR troops with the deployment of the Operational Reserve Forces (ORF) for the Western Balkans, a statement said, without specifying the number. Another unit will be on standby to be ready to reinforce KFOR if necessary. The deployment of additional NATO forces to Kosovo is a prudent measure to ensure that KFOR has the capabilities it needs to maintain security in accordance with our UN Security Council Mandate, said Adm. Stuart B. Munsch, commander of Allied Joint Force Command Naples (JFC Naples). A statement Tuesday by the multinational peacekeeping force known as KFOR said 30 soldiers 11 Italians and 19 Hungarians sustained multiple injuries, including fractures and burns from improvised explosive incendiary devices. Three Hungarian soldiers were wounded by the use of firearms, but their injuries were not life-threatening, the statement added. Serb officials said 52 people were injured, including three seriously. Four protesters were detained, according to the Kosovo police. Both parties need to take full responsibility for what happened and prevent any further escalation, rather than hide behind false narratives, said KFOR commander Maj.-Gen. Angelo Michele Ristuccia. Belgrade and Pristina have blamed each other for the escalation. The diplomatic pace increased. Ambassadors from the so-called Quint countries France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the U.S. met with Kosovo PM Kurti in Pristina on Monday and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Belgrade on Tuesday. Vucic later also met with the ambassadors in Serbia of Russia and China. In a statement from his office, Vucic expressed immense dissatisfaction and strong concern over what he described as international tolerance of Kurtis actions that fueled violence against Serbs. Urgent measures to guarantee the security of the Serbs in Kosovo are a precondition for any future talks, Vucic insisted. Kurti has thanked KFOR troops for valiant action to preserve peace in the face of violent extremism. The border between Kosovo and Serbia is one of those dangerous places where a spark could set off a fire, said Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto. Russia and China both have sharply criticized Western backing for Kosovos independence. Russias President Vladimir Putin often has cited the precedent of NATO bombardment of Serbia in 1999 to justify his unlawful annexation of parts of Ukraine. China, which has established close economic ties with Belgrade through its foreign investments, blamed the violence on a failure to respect Serbian political rights. We oppose unilateral actions by the Provisional Institutions of Self-Government of Kosovo, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in Beijing. The conflict in Kosovo erupted in 1998 when separatist ethnic Albanians rebelled against Serbias rule, and Serbia responded with a brutal crackdown. About 13,000 people, mostly ethnic Albanians, died. NATOs military intervention in 1999 eventually forced Serbia to pull out of the territory and paved the way for the establishment of the KFOR peacekeeping mission. (AP) The United Nations special envoy for Myanmar will step down, a spokesman for the UN chief told AFP Wednesday, after an 18-month tenure in which she was criticised by the junta and its opponents and with the country in turmoil. "Noeleen Heyzer, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General on Myanmar, will conclude her assignment on 12 June," Stephane Dujarric said, without giving a reason for her departure. The global body's Secretary-General Antonio Guterres "is thankful to Ms. Heyzer for her tireless efforts on behalf of peace and the people of Myanmar," the spokesman said, adding a new envoy would be appointed. Heyzer, a Singaporean sociologist, was named as envoy by Guterres in 2021 and tasked with urging the Myanmar junta to launch political dialogue with its opponents. She visited the Southeast Asian nation last August and met junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and other top military officials in a move criticised by rights groups. But she was denied a meeting with detained democracy leader Aun San Suu Kyi and later irked junta officials who accused her of issuing a "one-sided statement" of what had been discussed. Myanmar has been in turmoil since a 2021 coup that sparked renewed clashes with ethnic rebels and the formation of dozens of "People's Defence Forces" now battling the junta. Search Keywords: Short link: Prospects for a renewed high-level military dialogue between China and the U.S. remain dim, with Beijing saying their defense chiefs will not hold a bilateral meeting while both are attending a weekend security conference in Singapore. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Tuesday blamed the U.S., saying Washington should earnestly respect Chinas sovereignty and security interests and concerns, immediately correct the wrongdoing, show sincerity, and create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for dialogue and communication between the two militaries. Mao gave no details, but tensions between the sides have spiked over Washingtons military support and sales of defensive weapons to self-governing Taiwan, Chinas assertions of sovereignty to the contested South China Sea and its flying of a suspected spy balloon over the U.S. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. Austin met privately with Lis predecessor, Wei Fenghe, at last years Shangri-La Dialogue, which appeared to do little to smooth relations between the sides. In his address to the forum, Wei accused the U.S. of seeking to contain Chinas development and threatening to assert its claim to Taiwan by military force. Chinese leader Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden met on the sidelines of the Group of 20 meeting of large economies in November in Indonesia, but contacts have proceeded only sporadically since then, with only side meetings on neutral territory. Secretary of State Antony Blinken canceled a visit to Beijing in February after the U.S. shot down a Chinese spy balloon that had crossed the United States. He later met with the Communist Partys senior foreign affairs adviser Wang Yi in Austria. China refused to take a phone call from Austin to discuss the balloon issue, the Pentagon said. Always beset by mistrust and accusations, communications on the military level have yet to show signs of improvement. Beijing also was angered by Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wens April stopover in the U.S. that included an encounter with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Chinas Peoples Liberation Army holds military exercises and sends fighter jets, drones and ships near the island to advertise its threat to attack and wear down Taiwans defenses. China also protests movements of U.S. Navy ships and aircraft through the Taiwan Strait and close to Chinese-held islands in the South China Sea, dispatching its own ships and planes and raising the possibility of confrontations or collisions. (AP) A rare drone attack jolted Moscow early Tuesday, causing only light damage but forcing evacuations as residential buildings were struck in the Russian capital for the first time in the war against Ukraine. The Kremlin, meanwhile, pursued its relentless bombardment of Kyiv with a third assault on the city in 24 hours. The Russian Defense Ministry said five drones were shot down in Moscow and the systems of three others were jammed, causing them to veer off course. President Vladimir Putin called it a terrorist act by Kyiv. The attack, while causing only what Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said was insignificant damage to several buildings, brought the war home to civilians in Russias capital. Two people received treatment for unspecified injuries but did not need hospitalization, Sobyanin said, adding that residents of two high-rise buildings damaged in the attack were evacuated. Andrei Vorobyov, governor of the wider Moscow region, said some of the drones were shot down on the approach to Moscow. Ukraine made no direct comment on the attack, which would be one of its deepest and most daring strikes into Russia since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than 15 months ago. Putin said Moscows air defense worked in a satisfactory way, but added it was clear what we need to do to plug the gaps in the system. The Kyiv regime attempts to intimidate Russia, Russian citizens and strikes at civilian buildings, he said at a public event, responding to a question from the head of a Kremlin-allied think tank. It is, of course, a clear indication of terrorist activity. Putin charged that Ukraine launched Tuesdays attack in response to Russia striking Ukraines military intelligence headquarters in Kyiv over the weekend. But Andrii Cherniak, a Ukrainian intelligence representative, said the Kremlins forces failed to hit the building because its missiles were shot down. Asked by The Associated Press whether there was high-level concern that the invasion of Ukraine was endangering Russian civilians, Putins spokesman Dmitry Peskov said only that attacks on Russia reinforced the need to prosecute what the Kremlin calls the special military operation. A senior Russian lawmaker, Andrei Kartapolov, said the apparent purpose of the attacks was to unnerve the Russian people. Its an intimidation act aimed at the civilian population, he was quoted by Russian news site RBC as saying. Its designed to create a wave of panic. Russian political analyst Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said the Kremlins policy is to play down the attacks. You ask, why is Putin behaving like this, does he really not understand and fear the consequences? she wrote in a Telegram post. Apparently he isnt afraid, and everything is built on the idea that has been voiced more than once about a patient people who will understand everything and endure everything. Moscow residents reported hearing explosions before dawn. Police were seen working at one site of a crashed drone in southwest Moscow. An area near a residential building was fenced off, and police put the drone debris in a cardboard box before carrying it away. At another site, apartment windows were shattered and there were scorch marks on the buildings front. It was the second reported strike on Moscow since May 3, when Russian authorities said two drones targeted the Kremlin in what they portrayed as an attempt on Putins life. Ukraine denied it was behind that attack. Last week, the Russian border region of Belgorod was the target of one of the most serious cross-border raids since the war began, with two far-right pro-Ukrainian paramilitary groups claiming responsibility. Officials in the southern Russian city of Krasnodar near annexed Crimea said two drones struck there on Friday, damaging residential buildings. Other drones have reportedly flown deep into Russia multiple times. In December, Moscow claimed it had shot down drones at airfields in the Saratov and Ryazan regions in western Russia. Three soldiers were reported killed in the attack in Saratov, which targeted an important military airfield. Before that, Russia reported downing a drone that targeted the headquarters of its Black Sea Fleet in the Crimean port of Sevastopol. Ukrainian military analysts, though unable to confirm Kyiv had launched the drones against Moscow, said the attack may have involved UJ-22 drones, which are produced in Ukraine and have a maximum range of about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles). Analyst Oleh Zhdanov said some UJ-22s are capable of reaching Moscow and beyond, although he noted they can fly only half as far and carry half the payload of the Iranian-made Shahed drones used in the war by Russia. Even so, Zhdanov told AP that the myth has been dispelled of the Russian capitals invulnerability. Since February, when a UJ-22 crashed 100 kilometers (60 miles) from Moscow, Ukrainian drones have repeatedly approached the Russian capital. The White House National Security Council said in a statement that it was still gathering information about what happened in Moscow, but generally we do not support attacks inside of Russia. It noted that Russias bombardment of Kyiv was the 17th round of attacks this month, many of which have devastated civilian areas. A U.S. defense official said the drone strikes would not not affect the weapons aid packages the U.S. is providing Ukraine to include drone ammunition. The official said the U.S. has committed to supporting Ukraine in its effort to defend the country and Ukraine had committed to not using the systems inside Russia, so the aid would likely continue unchanged. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. Ukrainian officials said Tuesdays pre-dawn air raid on Kyiv killed at least one person, wounded 11 others and sent residents scrambling into shelters again. At least 20 Shahed drones were destroyed by air defense forces in Kyiv in the latest attack. Overall, Ukraine shot down 29 of 31 drones, mostly in the Kyiv area, the air force said. Before daylight, buzzing drones could be heard in the city, followed by loud explosions as they were taken down by air defense systems. The heavy destruction in Kyiv contrasted with what was seen in Moscow. In the Ukrainian capital, burned-out cars, glass and debris littered the street outside a building where apartments were wrecked; in Moscow, only a few broken windows and scorched outer walls were evident, with repairs and repainting being done quickly to affected buildings. A woman in Kyivs Holosiiv district was killed when she went onto her balcony to look at drones being shot down, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post. A high-rise in the same district caught fire after being hit by debris either from drones or interceptor missiles. The buildings upper two floors were destroyed, and people were feared buried in the rubble, the Kyiv Military Administration said. More than 20 people were evacuated. Resident Valeriya Oreshko told AP that even though the immediate threat was over, the attacks had everyone on edge. You are happy that you are alive, but think about what will happen next, the 39-year-old said. A resident who gave only her first name, Oksana, said the whole building shook when it was hit, advising others: Go to shelters, because you really do not know where (the drone) will fly. (AP) President Joe Biden will host British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at the White House next week for talks on Ukraine, climate issues and more. Sunak is slated to visit Washington on June 7-8 and will also meet with U.S. lawmakers and business leaders in addition to his Oval Office meeting next Thursday with Biden. The meeting comes after the White House announced earlier this month that Biden was endorsing an international effort forged by the U.K. and other allies to train and eventually equip Ukraine with the F-16 fighter jets that President Volodymyr Zelesnkky has long sought. Biden is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark, another key partner in the F-16 effort, on Monday. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement that the two leaders are also expected the U.S.-U.K. economic relationship and developments in Northern Ireland. British officials downplayed hopes that the visit would produce significant action toward forging a new U.S.-U.K. trade agreement, which the British government accepts is dead for now. Sunak spokesman Max Blain said he wouldnt expect either side to be pushing for that, adding We are not seeking to pursue a free-trade deal with the U.S. currently. (AP) A U.S. military aid package for Ukraine that is expected to be announced this week will total up to $300 million and will include additional munitions for drones, U.S. officials said Tuesday. The drone ammunition comes after new attacks by unmanned aircraft targeted Moscow. There has been no suggestion that U.S.-made drones or munitions were used in the recent attacks on Moscow, and U.S. officials have repeatedly said that Ukraine has agreed not to use any American-provided weapons for attacks on Russian soil. The Kremlin blamed Kyiv for Tuesdays attack, but Ukrainian officials had no direct comment. But the new aid package comes at a tense moment in the war. The latest drone attack on Moscow follows Russias seizure of the eastern Ukrainian city Bakhmut after a nine-month battle that killed tens of thousands of people. Ukraine is also showing signs that its long-awaited spring counteroffensive may already be underway. The Russian Defense Ministry said five drones were shot down in Moscow and the systems of three others were jammed, causing them to veer off course. President Vladimir Putin called it a terrorist act by Kyiv. A U.S. defense official said the drone strikes would not affect the weapons aid packages the U.S. is providing Ukraine, to include drone ammunition. The official said the U.S. has committed to supporting Ukraine in its effort to defend the country and Ukraine had committed to not using the systems inside Russia, so the aid would likely continue unchanged. All of the U.S. officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because the latest aid package has not yet been publicly announced. U.S. officials did not provide details on the drone munitions in the new aid package or specify which unmanned aircraft would use them. The Defense Department has given Ukraine a variety of unmanned aircraft over the last year, for both surveillance and attacks, including at least two versions of the Switchblade, a so-called kamikaze drone that can loiter in the air and then explode into a target. Other more sophisticated drones can drop munitions, but the U.S. has been reluctant to publicly share details about those. Also included in the newest package will be munitions for Patriot missile batteries and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), Stinger missiles for the Avenger system, mine-clearing equipment, anti-armor rounds, unguided Zuni aircraft rockets, night vision goggles, and about 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition, said the U.S. officials. The aid greatly resembles other recent U.S. packages, which have focused on providing Ukraine more ammunition for the weapons systems it has and helping it prepare for a counteroffensive to push back against Russian gains over the past year. Ukrainian officials have not formally announced the launch of their much-anticipated counteroffensive, although some say it has already begun and the pace of attacks suggests that its underway. Including the latest aid, the U.S. has committed more than $37.6 billion in weapons and other equipment to Ukraine since Russia attacked on Feb. 24, 2022. This latest package will be done under presidential drawdown authority, which allows the Pentagon to take weapons from its own stocks and quickly ship them to Ukraine, officials said. Officials said the U.S. is expected to announce the aid as soon as Wednesday. Tuesdays strikes on Moscow were the second drone strikes on the city since May 3, when Russian officials said two drones targeted the Kremlin in what they portrayed as an attempt on Putins life. Ukraine denied it was behind that attack. U.S. intelligence officials were still trying to ascertain if Ukraine had any involvement in or prior knowledge of Tuesdays drone attack in Moscow, according to a U.S. official familiar with the matter who was not authorized to comment and spoke on the condition of anonymity. Last week, the Russian border region of Belgorod was the target of one of the most serious cross-border raids since the war began, with two far-right pro-Ukrainian paramilitary groups claiming responsibility. The U.S. conveyed after that incident that American-made weaponry must not be used inside Russia, according to a U.S. official familiar with the sensitive communications. The message was very clearly understood, according to the official. Officials in the southern Russian city of Krasnodar, near annexed Crimea, said two drones struck there on Friday, damaging residential buildings. Other drones have reportedly flown deep into Russia multiple times. Ukrainian military analysts, though unable to confirm Kyiv had launched the drones against Moscow, said the attack may have involved UJ-22 drones, which are produced in Ukraine and have a maximum range of about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles). U.S. officials struck a delicate balance in responding to the drone strikes, reiterating support for Ukraine while stressing that the U.S. opposes Ukrainians using American weapons in Russia. They noted that Russias bombardment of Kyiv on Tuesday was the 17th round of attacks this month, many of which have devastated civilian areas. (AP) The U.S. military said Tuesday that a Chinese fighter jet flew aggressively close to a U.S. reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea, forcing the American pilot to fly through the turbulent wake. The Chinese J-16 fighter pilot flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135, which was conducting routine operations in international airspace last Friday, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement. It called the Chinese move an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver. U.S. defense leaders have complained that Chinas military has become significantly more aggressive over the past five years, intercepting U.S. aircraft and ships in the region. And tensions with China have only grown in recent months over Washingtons military support and sales of defensive weapons to self-governing Taiwan, Chinas assertions of sovereignty to the contested South China Sea and its flying of a suspected spy balloon over the U.S. In a further sign of the tensions, China said its defense chief will not meet with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin when the two men attend a security conference in Singapore this coming weekend. Austin is scheduled to address the Shangri-La Dialogue on Saturday, while Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu will speak at the gathering on Sunday. Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, said China informed the U.S. that it was declining Austins invitation to meet while they were at the conference. He said Beijings concerning unwillingness to engage in meaningful military-to-military discussions will not diminish the Defense Departments commitment to seeking open lines of communication with the Chinese army. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Tuesday blamed the U.S., saying Washington should earnestly respect Chinas sovereignty and security interests and concerns, immediately correct the wrongdoing, show sincerity, and create the necessary atmosphere and conditions for dialogue and communication between the two militaries. In a visit to the Indo-Pacific last summer, U.S. Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the number of intercepts by Chinese aircraft and ships in the Pacific region with U.S. and other partner forces has increased significantly over that time, and the number of unsafe interactions has risen by similar proportions. China frequently challenges military aircraft from the U.S. and its allies, especially over the strategically vital South China Sea, which China claims in its entirety. Such behavior led to a 2001 in-air collision in which a Chinese plane was lost and pilot killed. Beijing deeply resents the presence of U.S. military assets in that region, and regularly demands that American ships and planes leave the area. In the statement Tuesday, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said America will continue to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law allows, and expects all other countries to do the same. (AP) By: Sandy Eller Long a symbol of national expansion as the proverbial Gateway to the West, St. Louis lived up to its moniker last week, as the national leadership of Agudath Israel of America spent a day with the members of the Agudahs Missouri regional office, visiting local institutions and discussing possible growth opportunities with community leaders. Agudah Executive Vice President Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel, COO Rabbi Yitzchok Ehrman and Chief Development Officer Rabbi Naftali Miller flew to St. Louis, taking advantage of an opportunity to spread awareness about the many services provided by the Agudah that can benefit local Jewish communities. Also on the days agenda was the clear need for the Agudahs new regional office in Missouri to broaden its reach in order to best serve residents of St. Louis two Jewish communities in University City and Chesterfield. The itinerary included visits to the educational institutions that educate St. Louis 550 yeshiva students as well as its, local kollelim and several area shuls. Speaking at Missouri Torah Institute, the visitors expounded on the Agudahs advocacy efforts and its role in combatting antisemitism, part of its larger mission of supporting the Jewish community at large. A question and answer session provided an opportunity for an engaging discussion with mesivta and beis medrash students about what it means to take responsibility for the community, with the bochurim charged to utilize their own talents to benefit Klal Yisroel. The whirlwind tour of St. Louis Jewish community included stops at Tpheres Israel, which also houses the Chesterfield Kollel, Epstein Hebrew Academy, whose enrollment includes a growing number of students transferring from public school each year, Torah Prep School of St. Louis, Esther Miller Bais Yaakov and the St. Louis Kollel in University City. Joining the mission to St. Louis later in the day for a dinner hosted by community member Charlie Deutsch and a meeting with board members of the Missouri regional office were the Agudahs National Director of Government Affairs Rabbi A.D. Motzen, and Agudath Israel of Illinois Director of Government Affairs Rabbi Shlomo Soroka. Various issues were addressed as the day continued, including how the national Agudah can help the community execute its vision for growth, as well as the Agudah of Illinois instrumental role in getting a tax credit scholarship program passed in Missouri that provides $6,375 in tax credits for eligible students and how to further expand the program to benefit more local families. Tapping into the broader reach of the national Agudah is transformational for St. Louis, explained Rabbi Hillel Anton, educational assistance organization director for the Missouri regional office, who noted that the mission was an inspiring experience on all sides. Our guests were able to pick up on the beauty of what is going on in St. Louis, while at the same time being michazek the board and our local institutions by telling us, Youve got something great here and we will help you make it more beautiful, said Rabbi Anton. Similarly, our guests were invigorated seeing the growth that is happening here, with everyone united under the banner of Torah. Recognizing the value of smaller Jewish communities is crucial to the Agudahs mission, explained Rabbi Zwiebel, who discussed the importance of being able to diversify beyond larger population centers such as New York, New Jersey, Illinois and California. These communities contribute so much to the overall picture of the Agudah, making it truly an agudah achas, observed Rabbi Zwiebel. They are a wonderful injection into the kaleidoscope that we call the Agudah. We are grateful to be able to make them part of our umbrella and for the part they play expanding our horizons. We look forward to helping them with tangible communal needs and connecting them to Gedolei Yisroel and Klal Yisroel. Collaborating within the Agudah and with askanim who share Torah values makes each Agudah office exponentially more powerful and effective, added community member Jonathan Spetner, who thanked the Agudah leaders for their visit. It gave our balabatim chizuk to know we are not in this alone, and that the Agudahs mission of fostering Torah growth for all of Klal Yisroel will impact St. Louis. Being able to tap into the knowledge and experience of the national Agudahs leadership team is a tremendous opportunity for St. Louis, said Rabbi Dovid Fromowitz, rosh yeshiva of Missouri Torah Institute. It was a great kavod for us to be able to host chashuvim who have done so much for Klal Yisroel, observed Rabbi Fromowitz. We are excited that Missouri will have the benefits of an Agudah office, which will positively affect our whole community. As the Rav of the Agudas Israel shul for 37 years and an architect of the St. Louis Jewish community as we know it today, Rabbi Menachem Greenblatt welcomes the creation of a Missouri regional office of the Agudah, and is confident that it will draw an even greater number of Torah-oriented families to University City and Chesterfield. Agudath Israel of America has always been in the forefront of shtadlanus, political activism and benefitting the entire Jewish community, said Rabbi Greenblatt. We consider it a great privilege to be part of the Agudah network for the sake of benefitting our entire community. A trial for the man charged in the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history opened Tuesday with his own lawyer acknowledging he planned the 2018 massacre at a Pittsburgh synagogue and made hateful statements about Jewish people. Robert Bowers went to Tree of Life synagogue and shot every person he saw, defense attorney Judy Clarke acknowledged in her opening statement. Bowers, 50, could face the death penalty if convicted of some of the 63 counts he faces in the Oct. 27, 2018, attack, which claimed the lives of 11 worshippers from three congregations who shared the building. Charges include 11 counts each of obstruction of free exercise of religion resulting in death and hate crimes resulting in death. In the long run-up to the trial, Bowers lawyers had done little to cast doubt on whether he was the gunman, instead focusing on trying to save his life. Bowers, a truck driver from the Pittsburgh suburb of Baldwin, had offered to plead guilty in return for a life sentence, but federal prosecutors turned him down. In her opening statement, Clarke questioned whether Bowers was acting out of hatred, or an irrational belief that he needed to kill Jews to save others from the genocide he claimed they were enabling by helping immigrants come into the U.S. He had what to us is this unthinkable, nonsensical, irrational thought that by killing Jews he would attain his goal, Clarke said, adding: There is no making sense of this senseless act. Mr. Bowers caused extraordinary harm to many, many people. In their own statement to the jury, prosecutors described how Bowers barged into the synagogue and shot every worshipper he could find. The depths of the defendants malice and hate can only be proven in the broken bodies of the victims and his hateful words, Assistant U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song said. Some of the survivors dabbed tears during Songs presentation, while Bowers, seated at the defense table, showed no reaction. Twelve jurors and six alternates chosen Thursday after more than 200 candidates were questioned over a month are hearing the case. They include 11 women and seven men. Members of the three congregations arrived at the courthouse in a school bus and entered together. The atmosphere in the large, wood-paneled courtroom was grim and somber as the gallery filled with media, survivors and family members, Prosecutors have said Bowers made antisemitic comments at the scene of the attack and online. As an indication that the guilt-or-innocence phase of the trial seemed almost a foregone conclusion, Bowers lawyers spent little time during jury selection asking how potential jurors would come to a verdict. Instead, they focused on the penalty phase and how jurors would decide whether to impose the death penalty in a case of a man charged with hate-motivated killings in a house of worship. The defense probed whether potential jurors could consider factors such as mental illness or a difficult childhood. Bowers attorneys recently said he has schizophrenia and brain impairments. The families of those killed are divided over whether the government should pursue the death penalty, but most have voiced support for it. The trial is taking place in the downtown Pittsburgh courthouse of the U.S. District Court for Western Pennsylvania, presided over by Judge Robert Colville, an appointee of former President Donald Trump. Prosecutors have said Bowers made incriminating statements to investigators and left an online trail of antisemitic statements that they say shows the attack was motivated by religious hatred. Police shot Bowers three times before he surrendered. Prosecutors began presenting their case Tuesday by playing an initial 911 call from Bernice Simon, who reported were being attacked! at the synagogue and that her husband, Sylvan, had been shot. Shannon Basa-Sabol, the dispatcher who took that call, testified she advised Bernice Simon to find the wound and stanch the bleeding. Then the dispatcher heard additional gunfire and screaming as Bernice, too, was shot. The couple were among the victims. Bernice, are you still with me? Basa-Sabol asked in an audio recording played for the jury, There was no answer. Bowers also injured seven people, including five police officers who responded to the scene, investigators said. In a filing earlier this year, prosecutors said Bowers harbored deep, murderous animosity towards all Jewish people. They said he also expressed hatred for HIAS, founded as the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, a nonprofit humanitarian group that helps refugees and asylum seekers. Prosecutors wrote in a court filing that Bowers had nearly 400 followers on his Gab social media account to whom he promoted his antisemitic views and calls to violence against Jews. The three congregations have spoken out against antisemitism and other forms of bigotry since the attack. The Tree of Life congregation also is working with partners on plans to overhaul its current structure, which still stands but has been closed since the shootings, by creating a complex that would house a sanctuary, museum, memorial and center for fighting antisemitism. The death penalty trial is proceeding three years after now-President Joe Biden said during his 2020 campaign that he would work to end capital punishment at the federal level and in states that still use it. His attorney general, Merrick Garland, has temporarily paused executions to review policies and procedures, but federal prosecutors continue to vigorously work to uphold death sentences that have been issued and, in some cases, to pursue new death sentences at trial. (AP) The Biden administration just cant seem to give up its obsession with forging a nuclear deal with the Islamic Republic, with its latest attempt taking place in Oman, Axios reported on Sunday. According to the report, President Bidens senior Middle East adviser Brett McGurk made a secret trip to Oman earlier this month for talks on possible diplomatic outreach to Iran about its nuclear program. According to five US, Israeli and European officials, McGurk traveled to Muscat on May 8 following a visit to Saudi Arabia and Israel. The Omanis are holding proximity talks between the U.S. and Iran, a senior Israeli official told Axios, referring to talks carried out through a third party. The talks were confirmed by a senior European diplomat who said that the U.S. is working with the Omanis on the Iranian issue. Neither the US nor Oman announced McGurks visit. However, Bidens Special Envoy for Iran Robert Malley told National Public Radio on Tuesday that the US is still hoping for a diplomatic solution to Irans nuclear program. We hope that we can resolve this through diplomatic means, and were prepared to go down that path, Malley said. Three Israeli officials told Axios that the Israeli government is concerned about a possible push by the Biden administration for a freeze for freeze interim agreement with Iran. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Chaim VChessed has reported extensively on the challenges involved in obtaining services at the US Embassy in Israel. Prior to the Pesach travel season, a sudden change in policy discontinued emergency appointments for newborns. At the time, there was a communal outcry, which led to the involvement of numerous public officials in the matter. Several U.S. legislators, including ranking members of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Senators Richard Blumenfeld (D-CT), Robert Menedez (D-NY) and Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), headed efforts with the State Department to rectify the situation. At the time, the immediate pre-Pesach crisis was resolved. However, the overall state of affairs for American citizens in Israel remains dire. It will be recalled that back in February, the US Embassy rolled out a new appointment system. This system was aimed at streamlining the process and at weeding out fictitious appointments. It was also geared to put an end to unsavory practices which involved shadowy agents selling appointments for money, often using bots to game the appointment system. While at the time the new process seemed promising, we are saddened to report that it has proven to be a failure. Callers to both Chaim VChessed and Amudim report wait times of six months to a year for obtaining passport appointments. This impossible situation has apparently, once again, fueled those unsavory individuals who seek to profit on the difficulties of others. Seemingly, bots and agents are back in business, charging desperate American citizens for appointments which should be available at no cost. We are gravely concerned about the situation and disappointed that a viable solution has not been found. Chaim VChessed, together with Amudim, is compiling information from American citizens who have been negatively affected by this situation. We ask that you fill out this brief survey to assist us in our efforts. In order to best advocate on behalf of the community, even if you already received your required passports and/or CRBAs, we would appreciate if you submit your information. Please click here to participate in the survey. A PLEA RECEIVED BY CHAIM VCHESSED Chaim VChessed has received countless pleas for assistance regarding embassy difficulties. The following is just one example: First, a huge thank you for all of the immensely valuable services that you provide. I want to add my voice in case others are expressing the same complain, which is as follows (I am sending the same note to the US Embassy-Jerusalem email address): As a US citizen residing in Israel, I very much appreciate the US Embassys efforts in trying to facilitate passport renewals and other US Citizens Services, after the Corona virus created a tremendous backlog. However, the new appointment-making system is only a partial, if not fractional, solution. For months we have kept our Wednesday afternoons, from 3 to 4pm, open in order to sit at the computer and attempt to make an appointment. It seems that we are competing with hundreds of others, and the fastest typists (or most savviest computer programmers) win. Today, about 18 appointments were opened up, at 3:06pm. Within 45 seconds they were gone. We have managed, over the course of the past year, to make two appointments for passport renewals, but for the third child who needs a renewal, we have not succeeded in winning the typing race. In our case, this manifests in the unfortunate inconvenience of not being able to return to the US to visit my 91-year-old father. The Israeli government made Passport Marathon days, which seems to have helped the problem for Israeli citizens seeking to obtain or renew Israeli passports. Perhaps the US Embassy could consider the same. Alternatively, perhaps, the US State Department could consider passport renewals by mail for children. Thank you for your attention Sponsored Content Future Patent Attorney Combines Passions for Both Law and Computer Science Chana Rosenbluth is passionate about both law and computer science, but since they dont seem to have much overlap, she didnt see any reason to focus on one subject at the expense of the other. Instead, the aspiring attorney majored in computer science, having found a way to combine her passions: She plans to work as a patent attorney, and to take the patent bar examseparate from the traditional state bar examone must have either a professional or educational background in science. As a patent attorney, there are lots of very minute areas that you need to be able to understand exactly in order to properly articulate whats novel about whatever youre patenting, she explained. So I decided to just stick with the science that I already knew I enjoyed. Clearly she knew what she was doing, as Chana was named the 2023 valedictorian of Lander College for Women. She will be one of the student speakers at the Lander College commencement at Alice Tully Hall in Lincoln Center on June 4th. Chana is a brilliant interdisciplinary thinker that makes everything seem easy., said Dr. Marian Stoltz-Loike, dean of Touros Lander College for Women and Vice President for Online Education at Touro University. More than that, Chana has a wonderful ability to integrate disparate information which she uses to understand and explore new ideas. On a personal level, she is warm and supportive of her fellow students and eager to help them succeed. It is an honor to have her as our 2023 Valedictorian. Originally from Teaneck, NJ, and now living in Washington Heights with her husband, Akiva, Chana attended Bruriah High School for Girls, and came to Lander College for Women after spending two years learning at Michlalah in Jerusalem. The Honors Program student graduates with a 4.0 grade point average. She made Deans List every semester and was the recipient of the Lander Merit Scholarship. In the fall, Chana will begin Columbia Law School, which bestowed her with the Butler Fellowship. Between her first and second years in Israel, Chana interned for a patent attorney, and she enjoyed the experience so much that shes still working as a legal assistant for the same attorney. She made a strong impression on her computer science professors as well, as they tapped her to serve as a teaching assistant; after she completed her coursework in January, she started working in a similar position at Touros Lander College of Arts & Sciences in Flatbush, serving as a teaching assistant in four classes between the two schools. In August shell switch gears for law school, and shes looking forward to the challenge. I really enjoy everything that comes along with hard workthe legal analyses that youre able to do once youve done a whole slew of reading, and learning how things have been decided in the past, trying to understand the principles behind all the decisions that have been made, and trying to see how the future is going to play out. In the meantime, Chana is trying to get through her mental book list, explore New York City, and spend time with her family, because as excited as I am to start law school, I know that Im not going to have much time for that over the next three years. North Koreas attempt to put the countrys first spy satellite into space failed Wednesday in a setback to leader Kim Jong Uns push to boost his military capabilities as tensions with the United States and South Korea rise. After an unusually quick admission of failure, North Korea vowed to conduct a second launch after learning what went wrong with its rocket liftoff. It suggests Kim remains determined to expand his weapons arsenal and apply more pressure on Washington and Seoul while diplomacy is stalled. South Korea and Japan briefly urged residents to take shelter during the launch. The South Korean military said it was salvaging an object presumed to be part of the crashed North Korean rocket in waters 200 kilometers (124 miles) west of the southwestern island of Eocheongdo. Later, the Defense Ministry released photos of a white, metal cylinder it described as a suspected rocket part. A satellite launch by North Korea is a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban the country from conducting any launch based on ballistic technology. Observers say North Koreas previous satellite launches helped improve its long-range missile technology. North Korean long-range missile tests in recent years demonstrated a potential range that could reach all of the continental U.S., but outside experts say the North Korea still has some work to do to obtain functioning nuclear missiles. The newly developed Chollima-1 rocket was launched at 6:37 a.m. at the Norths Sohae Satellite Launching Ground in the northwest, carrying the Malligyong-1 satellite. The rocket crashed off the Korean Peninsulas western coast after it lost thrust following the separation of its first and second stages, the Norths official Korean Central News Agency said. South Koreas military said the North Korean rocket had an abnormal flight before it fell in the water. Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told reporters that no object was believed to have reached space. North Korean media said the countrys space agency will investigate what it calls the serious defects revealed by the launch and conduct a second launch as soon as possible. It is impressive when the North Korean regime actually admits failure, but it would be difficult to hide the fact of a satellite launch failure internationally, and the regime will likely offer a different narrative domestically, Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul, said. This outcome also suggests that Pyongyang may stage another provocation soon, in part to make up for todays setback. Adam Hodge, a spokesperson at the U.S. National Security Council, said in a statement that Washington strongly condemns the North Korean launch because it used banned ballistic missile technology, raised tensions, and risked destabilizing security in the region and beyond. The U.N. imposed economic sanctions on North Korea over its previous satellite and ballistic missile launches, but has not responded to recent tests because China and Russia, permanent council members now locked in confrontations with the U.S., have blocked attempts to toughen sanctions. Seouls military said it boosted military readiness in coordination with the United States, and Japan said it prepared to respond to any emergency. The U.S. said it will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and the defense of South Korea and Japan. South Korea's capital, Seoul, issued alerts over public loudspeakers and cellphone text messages telling residents to prepare for evacuation after the launch was detected, and Japan activated a missile warning system for Okinawa prefecture in southwestern Japan, in the rockets suspected path. Please evacuate into buildings or underground, the Japanese alert said. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada said Japan plans to keep missile defense systems deployed to its southern islands and in southwestern waters until June 11, which is the end of North Koreas announced launch window. KCNA didnt provide details of the rocket and the satellite beyond their names. But experts earlier said North Korea would likely use a liquid-fueled rocket as most of its previously tested long-range rockets and missiles have done. Though it plans a fuller investigation, the Norths National Aerospace Development Administration attributed the failure to the low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system applied to (the) carrier rocket and the unstable character of the fuel, according to KCNA. On Tuesday, Ri Pyong Chol, a top North Korean official, said the North needed a space-based reconnaissance system to counter escalating security threats from South Korea and the United States. However, the spy satellite disclosed in the countrys state-run media earlier didnt appear to be sophisticated enough to produce high-resolution imagery. Some outside experts said it may still be able to detect troop movements and large targets such as warships and warplanes. Recent commercial satellite imagery of the Norths Sohae launch center showed active construction indicating North Korea plans to launch more than one satellite. In his Tuesday statement, Ri also said North Korea would test various reconnaissance means" to monitor moves by the United States and its allies in real time. With three to five spy satellites, North Korea could build a space-based surveillance system that allows it to monitor the Korean Peninsula in near real-time, according to Lee Choon Geun, an honorary research fellow at South Koreas Science and Technology Policy Institute. The satellite is one of several high-tech weapons systems that Kim has publicly vowed to introduce. Other weapons on his wish list include a multi-warhead missile, a nuclear submarine, a solid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile. In his visit to the space agency in mid-May, Kim emphasized the strategic significance of a spy satellite in North Koreas standoff with the United States and South Korea. Easley, the professor, said Kim has likely increased pressure on his scientists and engineers to launch the spy satellite as rival South Korea successfully launched its first commercial-grade satellite aboard the domestically-built Nuri rocket earlier this month. South Korea is expected to launch its first spy satellite later this year, and analysts say Kim likely wants his country to launch its spy satellite before the South to reinforce his military credentials at home. After repeated failures, North Korea successfully put its first satellite into orbit in 2012, and the second one in 2016. The government said both are Earth-observation satellites launched under its peaceful space development program, but many foreign experts believed both were developed to spy on rivals. Observers say there has been no evidence that the satellites have ever transmitted imagery back to North Korea. Search Keywords: Short link: Nvidia has become the first chip manufacturer to hit a valuation of $1trillion (807bn). Shares have rocketed as the company cashes in on the artificial intelligence (AI) boom. Nvidia said sales would reach 9billion in the three months to July, smashing Wall Street estimates. Nvidia shares traded at $406 yesterday, pushing the firm into the elite club of Silicon Valley stocks to achieve a market cap over $1trillion The Californian firm clocked up one of the biggest ever one-day stock market increases in US company history last week adding more than 150billion to its market cap on Thursday trade alone. The gain was close to the total value of Shell, the second largest firm on the UK stock market. And the surge has continued into this week. Shares traded at $406 yesterday, pushing Nvidia into the elite club of Silicon Valley stocks to achieve a market cap over $1trillion. This group includes tech giants Amazon, Apple, Google owner Alphabet and Microsoft, as well as Saudi Aramco. Facebook owner Meta and Tesla joined the trillion dollar club in 2021, but later tumbled out again as a result of a wider tech sell-off. Nvidia's stock is up more than 175 per cent this year as analysts back the company to grow even bigger thanks to intense AI investment. Nvidia has played a key role in the growing popularity of AI, providing chips to the likes of Microsoft to develop the tech. Chief executive Jensen Huang said it was in the right place at the right time when AI and ChatGPT took off. The next largest chipmaker globally Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing is valued at about 431billion. But Nvidia's recent success stands in stark contrast to its bumpy ride throughout 2022. It was battered by a slowing demand for its gaming chips and its failed attempt to buy the UK-based chip designer Arm from Japan's SoftBank. WH Smith has boosted its full-year forecasts as loosening Covid-related restrictions continued to lift airport store sales during the spring period. The retailer's total turnover increased by 23 per cent year-on-year for the 13 weeks ending 27 May, with modest growth in high street trade complemented by a solid performance from its travel business. Sales in the UK travel arm expanded by almost a quarter, which the firm credited to a rebound in passenger numbers, the launch of new categories, as well as bumper trade at electronics-led InMotion shops. Good results: WH Smith revealed that turnover increased by 23 per cent in the third quarter Its railway-based outlets also achieved a 10 per cent rise in revenues despite footfall on some days being impacted by Aslef and RMT workers striking over pay and conditions. At the same time, turnover grew by more than a quarter in its North American travel business but climbed by 79 per cent throughout the rest of the world thanks to a rebound across Australia and Asia. WH Smith's growth was also heavily driven by opening new establishments at transit destinations, including Newark Liberty International and Kansas airports in the US. Since the start of last September, the FTSE 250 bookseller's travel segment has won more than 70 store tenders, meaning it now has over 130 outlets yet to open. In April, WH Smith predicted its travel division would provide approximately 70 per cent of revenues and about 85 per cent of earnings from trading operations by the end of the current financial year. WH Smith said on Wednesday that its annual expectations have 'modestly improved,' adding that it was 'in a good position as we approach the peak summer trading period'. WH Smith shares were 2.4 per cent up at 15.65 on late Wednesday afternoon, although they remain significantly below their pre-Covid peak of about 26.60. Trading for most of the first two years of the pandemic was severely depressed by cross-border travel restrictions and a surge in people working from home. But while the company's high street arm performed comparatively better at times, it has struggled for many years with weak sales and profits, underinvestment and stiff competition from retail giants like Amazon. Instead, WH Smith has focused on expanding the travel business, buying a raft of former Dixons Travel outlets in summer 2021 and adding more InMotion stores. Neil Shah, director of content and strategy at Edison Group, said: 'WH Smith's gradual transformation over the past two decades, transitioning from the high street to airport terminals, has played a crucial role in its resilience and expansion. 'With strong trading momentum, a growing pipeline of new stores, and recovering passenger numbers, the company is well-positioned to seize the opportunities presented by the peak summer trading period and beyond.' Our generative AI works right beside you in your favorite software, bringing together insights and intelligence from our trusted content and your knowledge so you can get work done faster with confidence. Fast track case onboarding and practice with confidence. Tap into a team of experts who create and maintain timely, reliable, and accurate resources so you can jumpstart your work. This Supplemental Privacy Statement for California Consumers under CCPA/CPRA (California Statement) supplements our Privacy Statement and further explains required disclosures about how we collect, disclose, and sell the personal information of California consumers and the rights that California consumers may have under the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act of 2020 (CCPA/CPRA) where we act as a business under CCPA/CPRA. When we use the term personal information in this California Statement, we are using that term as CCPA/CPRA defines it, which generally means information that identifies, relates to, describes, is capable of being associated with, or could reasonably be linked, directly or indirectly, with a particular consumer or household. However, personal information does not include publicly available, deidentified, or aggregate consumer information (which are all defined in CCPA/CPRA). What categories of personal information do you collect and who do you share it with or sell it to? In general, the categories of personal information we collect, sources of that information, business and commercial purposes for why we collect and use it, and who we share it with, as well as our personal information retention practices, are as outlined in our Privacy Statement . California law, however, requires we restate some of this information for specific categories that are defined in CCPA/CPRA. The type of personal information we collect and how we handle that personal information, including if we share or sell that personal information, depends on how you are specifically interacting with us and which Services you are inquiring about. In general, we have collected, disclosed for a business purpose, and sold the following categories of personal information and sensitive personal information from California consumers within the last twelve (12) months: Categories of Personal Information Collected Category of Personal Information Examples as Defined in CCPA/CPRA Collected A. Identifiers Real name, alias, postal address, unique personal identifier, online identifier, internet protocol address, email address, account name, social security number, drivers license number, passport number, or other similar identifiers. B. Personal information categories listed in the California Customer Records statute, Cal. Civ. Code 1798.80(e) Name, signature, Social Security number, physical characteristics or description, address, telephone number, passport number, driver's license or state identification card number, insurance policy number, education, employment, employment history, bank account number, credit card number, debit card number, or any other financial information, medical information, or health insurance information. C. Protected classification characteristics under California or federal law Age (40 years or older), race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, religion or creed, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, sex (including gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy or childbirth and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, veteran or military status, genetic information (including familial genetic information). D. Commercial information Records of personal property, products or services purchased, obtained, or considered, or other purchasing or consuming histories or tendencies. E. Biometric information Genetic, physiological, behavioral, and biological characteristics, or activity patterns used to extract a template or other identifier or identifying information, such as, fingerprints, faceprints, and voiceprints, iris or retina scans, keystroke, gait, or other physical patterns, and sleep, health, or exercise data. F. Internet or other similar network activity Browsing history, search history, information on a consumer's interaction with a website, application, or advertisement. G. Geolocation data Physical location or movements. H. Sensory data Audio, electronic, visual, thermal, olfactory, or similar information. I. Professional or employment-related information Current or past job history or performance evaluations. J. Non-public education information (per the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. Section 1232g, 34 C.F.R. Part 99)) Education records directly related to a student maintained by an educational institution or party acting on its behalf, such as grades, transcripts, class lists, student schedules, student identification codes, student financial information, or student disciplinary records. K. Inferences drawn from other personal information Profile reflecting a person's preferences, characteristics, psychological trends, predispositions, behavior, attitudes, intelligence, abilities, and aptitudes. L. Sensitive personal information Social security, drivers license, state identification card, or passport number; user name, financial account, debit card, or credit card number in combination with any required security or access code, password, or credentials allowing access to an account; precise geolocation; racial or ethnic origin; religious or philosophical beliefs; union membership; genetic data; contents of consumers mail, email, and text messages unless Thomson Reuters is the intended recipient of the communication; processing of biometric information for the purpose of uniquely identifying a consumer; and personal information collected and analyzed concerning a consumers health, sex life, or sexual orientation. Categories of Personal Information Disclosed for a Business Purpose Category of Personal Information Disclosed A. Identifiers B. Personal information categories listed in the California Customer Records statute, Cal. Civ. Code 1798.80(e) C. Protected classification characteristics under California or federal law D. Commercial information E. Biometric information F. Internet or other similar network activity G. Geolocation data H. Sensory data I. Professional or employment-related information J. Non-public education information (per the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. Section 1232g, 34 C.F.R. Part 99)) K. Inferences drawn from other personal information L. Sensitive personal information Categories of Personal Information Sold Category of Personal Information Sold A. Identifiers B. Personal information categories listed in the California Customer Records statute, Cal. Civ. Code 1798.80(e) C. Protected classification characteristics under California or federal law D. Commercial information E. Biometric information F. Internet or other similar network activity G. Geolocation data H. Sensory data I. Professional or employment-related information J. Non-public education information (per the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. Section 1232g, 34 C.F.R. Part 99)) K. Inferences drawn from other personal information L. Sensitive personal information Your privacy rights If you are a California consumer, you may have one or more of the following rights under CCPA/CPRA: Right to confirm we process your personal information and, if so, to request we disclose to you: (1) the categories of personal information we collected about you; (2) the categories of sources from which the personal information is collected; (3) the business or commercial purpose for collecting, selling, or sharing personal information; (4) the categories of third parties to whom we disclose personal information; and (5) the specific pieces of personal information we have collected about you. Right to access (which may include a portable copy), correct, complete, or delete specific pieces of personal information we hold about you. Right to limit our use and disclosure of your sensitive personal information. Right to opt-out of the sale of personal information, as sale is defined under CCPA/CPRA. Right to opt-out of the sharing of personal information, as sharing is defined under CCPA/CPRA. Right not to receive discriminatory treatment for exercising your rights under CCPA/CPRA Additionally, California Civil Code Section 1798.83 may permit you the right to request information regarding the personal information about you we disclose to third parties for the third parties direct marketing purposes. To make a request, you can contact us through our Data Subject Rights Portal, by emailing us at privacy.issues@thomsonreuters.com , or by calling us at 1-866-633-7656. Requests to opt-out of the sale and sharing of personal information can also be submitted by clicking this Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information and Limit the Use of My Sensitive Personal Information link. Please provide us enough information to verify your identify. We will use information you provide to us to verify your request. If we cannot initially verify your identity, we may request additional information to complete the verification process, such as, for example, a copy of your drivers license and/or a recent utility or credit card bill. You can designate an agent to make a request on your behalf by either: (1) having your agent send us a letter, signed by you, certifying that the agent is acting on your behalf and showing proof that they are registered with the California Secretary of State; or (2) by you and the agent executing and sending us a notarized power of attorney stating that the agent is authorized to act on your behalf. Please note that we may still require you to verify your identity before we process a request submitted by your agent. IMPORTANT: These rights are not absolutely guaranteed and there are several exceptions where we may not have an obligation to fulfill your request. We are only required to honor these rights to the extent that we act as a business/controller under CCPA/CPRA and the requested rights have been granted and apply to you under CCPA/CPRA. Please consult CCPA/CPRA to determine what rights may be available to you and when access to these rights is limited. You may appeal an adverse decision on your requests by emailing or writing to us ; and you have the right to lodge a complaint to the California Attorney General if you are not satisfied with our responses to your requests or how we manage your personal information. However, we encourage you to first contact us so we can address your concerns directly. CCPA Consumer Request Metrics for 2021 This California Statement was last updated on January 1, 2023. NATO-led peacekeepers stepped up security around a town hall in northern Kosovo on Wednesday, where hundreds of ethnic Serbs gathered again at the scene of clashes earlier this week that left more than 80 people injured. NATO has decided to deploy hundreds of reinforcements to strengthen Kosovo's international peacekeeping mission (KFOR) after Monday's violence in the town of Zvecan. Hundreds of ethnic Serbs rallied outside Zvecan's town hall on Wednesday for a third consecutive day and held aloft a huge Serbian flag that stretched over 200 meters (660 feet) from the municipal building to the town centre. KFOR soldiers encircled the town hall, additionally securing the building with a metal fence and barbed wire, an AFP journalist said. Kosovo's ethnic Serb minority boycotted last months local elections held in northern Kosovo, where they are a majority. Last Friday, newly elected ethnic Albanian mayors moved into their offices with the help of Kosovos national police. Serbs tried to prevent the new mayors from taking over the premises, but the police fired tear gas to disperse them. The election boycott followed a collective resignation by Serb officials from the area, including administrative staff, judges and police officers, in November 2022. The demonstrators decorated the fence -- erected by KFOR soldiers -- with Serbian flags. Three vehicles of Kosovo special police -- whose presence sparks controversy in Serb-majority northern areas -- remained parked outside the town hall. On Monday, Serbs engaged in fierce clashes with NATO peacekeepers, leaving more than 50 rioters and 30 international troops injured. 700 more troops On Tuesday, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg condemned attacks on the alliance's forces in Kosovo, saying they were "unacceptable and must stop". "We have decided to deploy 700 more troops from the operational reserve force for Western Balkans and to put an additional battalion of reserve forces on high alertness so that they can also be deployed if needed," Stoltenberg said. "Violence sets back Kosovo and the entire region." Serbia raised the combat readiness of its troops stationed near the border and warned it wouldnt stand by if Serbs in Kosovo were attacked again. The situation has again fueled fears of a renewal of the 1998-99 ethnic conflict in Kosovo between Serb forces and Albanian guerrillas, that claimed more than 10,000 lives and left more than 1 million homeless. Kosovo declared independence from Belgrade after US-led NATO military intervention in 1999. Kosovos independence has been recognized by about 100 countries, including the United States. Russia, China and five EU countries, most of them with separatist regions of their own, have sided with Serbia, preventing Pristina from having a seat at the United Nations. Kosovo is mainly populated by ethnic Albanians, but the Serbs who make up around six percent of the population have remained largely loyal to Belgrade, especially in the north where they are a majority. Search Keywords: Short link: The Sudanese army has suspended its participation in US- and Saudi-brokered ceasefire talks with its paramilitary foes, a government official told AFP on Wednesday. The army took the decision "because the rebels have never implemented a single one of the provisions of a short-term ceasefire which required their withdrawal from hospitals and residential buildings, and have repeatedly violated the truce", the Sudanese official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. US and Saudi mediators said late Monday that the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had agreed to extend by five days a humanitarian truce they had frequently violated over the previous week. But despite their pledges, fighting flared again on Tuesday both in greater Khartoum and in the flashpoint western region of Darfur. "The army is ready to fight until victory," army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan declared during a visit to troops in the capital Tuesday. The RSF, led by Burhan's deputy-turned-foe Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, said they will "exercise their right to defend themselves" and accused the army of violating the truce. Since fighting erupted between the rival security forces on April 15, more than 1,800 people have been killed, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. The United Nations says more than a million people have been internally displaced and nearly 350,000 have fled abroad, including over 170,000 to Egypt. More than half the population -- 25 million people -- are now in need of aid and protection, the UN says. Entire districts of Khartoum no longer have running water, electricity is only available for a few hours a week, and three quarters of hospitals in combat zones are out of service. Sudan could descend into "total civil war", warned the Forces for Freedom and Change, the main civilian bloc ousted from power by Burhan and Daglo in 2021 before the two men fell out. Search Keywords: Short link: Chinas ruling Communist Party is calling for beefed-up national security measures, highlighting the risks posed by advances in artificial intelligence. A meeting headed by party leader and President Xi Jinping on Tuesday urged dedicated efforts to safeguard political security and improve the security governance of internet data and artificial intelligence," the official Xinhua News Agency said. Xi, who is China's head of state, commander of the military and chair of the partys National Security Commission, called at the meeting for staying keenly aware of the complicated and challenging circumstances facing national security. China needs a "new pattern of development with a new security architecture, Xinhua reported Xi as saying. China already dedicates vast resources to suppressing any perceived political threats to the partys dominance, with spending on the police and security personnel exceeding that devoted to the military. While it relentlessly censors in-person protests and online criticism, citizens have continued to express dissatisfaction with policies, most recently the draconian lockdown measures enacted to combat the spread of COVID-19. China has been cracking down on its tech sector in an effort to reassert party control, but like other countries it is scrambling to find ways to regulate the developing technology. Worries about artificial intelligence systems outsmarting humans and slipping out of control have intensified with the rise of a new generation of highly capable AI chatbots such as ChatGPT. Scientists and tech industry leaders, including high-level executives at Microsoft and Google, issued a new warning Tuesday about the perils that artificial intelligence poses to humankind. Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, the statement said. More than 1,000 researchers and technologists, including Elon Musk, who is currently on a visit to China, had signed a much longer letter earlier this year calling for a six-month pause on AI development. The missive said AI poses profound risks to society and humanity, and some involved in the topic have proposed a United Nations treaty to regulate the technology. Search Keywords: Short link: Africas militias often compound the threats their countries face and compromise their stability. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have adopted the slogan Unifying the guns in the war against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), with a large portion of the Sudanese siding with the army in a conflict that has been gutting the country for six weeks. The slogan is not a new one in the African continent and the Arab world, however. It was first adopted by Lebanese politicians to express their rejection of the Iran-backed Hizbullah movement, even as the latter justified its breaking ranks with the Lebanese Army because it was fighting the Israeli occupation of Lebanese land. The slogan was then adopted in Yemen, Libya, and a large number of African countries. SUDAN Until the eruption of the war, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, aka Hemedti, was deputy to the President of the Sovereign Transitional Council and Commander of the SAF Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan. Observers of the Sudanese arena mistakenly thought Hemedti and Al-Burhan were in harmony against civil forces, but since the toppling of Sudanese president Omar Al-Bashir, who ruled the country for 30 years, Hamedti had been courting the militia forces more than the army and its tribal supporters. As a result, a large number of civilians became supporters of the RSF, under the pretext that the army was creating tyranny, said Abdullah Al-Sheikh, a Sudanese journalist. When first established, the RSF was mainly comprised of Janjaweed forces formed by the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood regime under Al-Bashir to fight in Darfur in western Sudan. Throughout the Darfur war from 2003 to 2020, the Janjaweed, hailing from Arab pastoral tribes, especially the Abbala (camel herders), committed war crimes and crimes against humanity in a conflict that claimed the lives of 300,000 people and left thousands of women and girls raped and millions of displaced persons and refugees. Can a movement accused of such crimes and wanted by the International Criminal Court help to achieve a democratic transformation, Al-Sheikh asked. Salah Ahmed, a broadcaster on Radio Omdurman, told Al-Ahram Weekly that Hemedti does not want to rule, but to arrest Al-Burhan and then hand over power to civilians. But is it plausible that a criminal who stole camels when he was young can defeat a century-old, trained, internationally recognised army and then simply hand over power to civilians, Al-Sheikh countered. It cannot be denied that the military rule in Sudan was tyrannical, but we also cannot deny that the militias are not a solution. Good militia elements have to be integrated into the army and the rest must be compensated to begin their civil life, Al-Sheikh added. The war between the SAF and RSF broke out when Al-Burhan offered the integration of RSF militia members into the army over two years. Hemedti rejected the offer, suggesting the integration should take place over the course of 10 years. Hemedti rejected the integration because it strips him of his power. He would not have a political presence if he was not the commander of the RSF, because he is not a tribal leader, nor a trade union leader or political figure, Al-Sheikh noted. Al-Sheikh referred to late Sudanese president Jaafar Numeiri (1969-1985) who integrated the armed militia of the southern Sudanese rebellion after the Addis Ababa Peace Agreement in 1972. The precedent would have been successful had Numeiri not sided with the Muslim Brotherhood to implement Sharia Law in 1983. ETHIOPIA Following the fall of the Marxist Derg regime under the leadership of Colonel Mengistu Haile Mariam in 1991, a long Civil War led by the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front and its allies culminated in the establishment of a federal system of nine states in Ethiopia, each of which was granted the autonomy to establish its own police. Subsequently, the Tigrayans, who governed the country until the ascension of current Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali in 2018, established their own militias, while the Amhara and other groups followed suit, albeit on a smaller and weaker scale. These developments had little impact as long as the state remained robust and was led by an iron-fisted figure like late prime minister Meles Zenawi, said Khaled Mahmoud, a researcher in African affairs. However, with the Civil War breaking out in Tigray, chaos spread throughout Ethiopia. At the outset, Ahmed dismantled the Ethiopian army which had been under the control of the Tigrayans for three decades, noted Omar Mohamed Al-Hassan, a professor of Amharic at the Institute of Afro-Asian Studies at the University of Khartoum. Despite the fact that the Tigrayans made up less than seven per cent of the population, they accounted for roughly 36 per cent of the officers in the army, Al-Hassan said. These then joined the Tigray militia in their mountainous strongholds, prompting Ahmed to rely on the Amhara militia that constitute 27 per cent of the population. Motivated by a desire for vengeance against the Tigrayans, the Fano, youth in Amharic, waged a fierce war against Tigray, resulting in the deaths of at least 500,000 people in the small northern region, according to academic and relief estimates. Now that the war has ended, the Ethiopian Prime Minister is apprehensive about the Amhara gaining control of the state and isolating him, hence his request for them to surrender their weapons and integrate into the army, said Al-Hassan. Meanwhile, the Amhara are concerned about being absorbed into the army and losing control of the state and army to the Oromos [who make up 34 per cent of the population], to whom Ahmed belongs, he added. According to Al-Hassan, Ahmed is a Protestant from the Pentecostal sect, whereas the vast majority, if not all, of the Amhara and Tigrayans are Coptic Orthodox Christians. The majority of Pentecostal adherents hail from the southern part of the country and from the Oromo people [a mix of Muslims and Christians], and this alone could be sufficient to spark a civil war between Ethiopias largest ethnic groups. The problem is that Ahmed has convinced himself that he can manipulate Ethiopias diverse ethnic groups, but even the most skilled circus performer can fall off the tightrope. SOMALIA For three decades, the Somali army was a unifying force in a country that is culturally, religiously, and linguistically homogeneous but deeply divided along clan lines. However, following the ousting of the countrys authoritarian leader, General Siad Barre (1969-1991), each clan established its own army, and the most closely related clans formed their own republics. At the time of independence, the blue flag with a five-pointed star represented the multiple Somalias, but now we need an eight- or nine-pointed star, said Rashid Abdi, a Somali journalist based in Cairo. Somalia was divided between Italy and Britain (forming the Somali Republic), France (which acquired Djibouti), Ethiopia (which claimed the Ogaden region of Somalia), and Kenya in the far east. A few years after Barres fall, the Republic of Somaliland and the Republic of Puntland, an ancient Egyptian name for Somalia, were formed, although they were not recognised by any other nation. They now each possess their own army. Somalia, meanwhile, is internationally recognised, and its capital is Mogadishu. Late Yemeni president Ali Abdullah Saleh, Sudans Al-Bashir, and Ethiopia dealt with the small republics, but this situation could not last long. Any country requires international recognition, otherwise any deals with it are deemed illegal, Abdi said. Attempts to merge these military forces in the near future will pose a significant threat that may not be resolved peacefully, as the leadership of the two republics have significant interests in maintaining their respective armies, he noted. Like in Sudan and Ethiopia, every militia has value for its leaders in Somalia, even if it is referred to as an army, and they are unwilling to relinquish it, Abdi said. Mahmoud said that the challenge of the African militias is that they are founded on ethnic, national, or tribal elements, which the central government must appease to persuade their fighters to integrate into the national army. Abdi disputed the ability of the legitimately recognised army and government to satisfy these elements. Somalia currently has two de facto states that enjoy greater stability than the internationally recognised Somalia, which has allowed the ruling elite to become rich. Uniting with the internationally recognised Somalia could jeopardise their wealth, Abdi said. I anticipate that Somalia will undergo another civil war, whether Mogadishu becomes more powerful and no longer feels the need to placate anyone or becomes weaker if it is impacted by the impending famine in the Horn of Africa. Al-Hassan believes that war can be used to eradicate militias. However, Mahmoud said that the states failure to honour its agreements with militia leaders could result in significant consequences, citing Sudans experience. During the 11-year Addis Ababa Peace Agreement in southern Sudan, southern fighters were afforded the Armys benefits, but they quickly defected after Numeiri reneged on his agreement with them, Mahmoud said. John Garang, the leader of the Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement that led to the independence of South Sudan in 2011, was a colonel in the Sudanese Army, and the president of Southern Sudan was a middle-ranking officer in the army when the war broke out in 1983, Mahmoud added. This is a vicious cycle that can only be broken by achieving justice and addressing the people instead of appeasing the leadership of militias that may not represent them, Abdi stated. * A version of this article appears in print in the 1 June, 2023 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly Search Keywords: Short link: A senior barrister who reviewed Irelands abortion laws has expressed disappointment at the Taoiseach and Tanaistes response to her recommendations and suggested a bit of courage wouldnt go amiss. Marie OShea recommended a series of operational and legislative changes to the system introduced after the country voted to liberalise its laws on terminations in the landmark referendum in 2018. While the Government is pressing ahead with the operational recommendations, it has referred the legislative proposals to the Oireachtass health committee for consideration. Among the recommendations is the removal of a mandatory three-day waiting period between a womans initial medical consultation and her being given access to abortion treatment or medication. The review also recommends the threat of criminal sanction is removed for medics found to have acted outside the provisions of the abortion legislation and that the HSE is given the ability to ensure the provision of services is not disrupted due to issues around conscientious objections held by healthcare staff. Responding to the initial publication of the review, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Tanaiste Micheal Martin welcomed Ms OSheas work but both expressed caution around moving to significantly change the legal framework that people believed would be implemented when they voted in the referendum, which overturned the near blanket ban on abortions enshrined in the constitutions Eighth Amendment. Appearing before TDs and senators on the health committee on Wednesday, the barrister said she was aware of concerns voiced by senior members of the Government that changing the legislation would be perceived as tantamount to a breach of promise with the electorate. She added: I think it is reasonable to say that among the 66.4% of those who voted in favour of repeal of the eighth amendment were people who would have been influenced by the scope of the proposed regulations. They may hold genuine fear that the recommendations contained in the report represent the start of a creep towards a more progressive termination of pregnancy regime. I want to assure this committee that that is not the purpose of the recommendations. I believe that the electorate could not have foreseen the difficulties that would arise in operationalising the Act. She highlighted that the legislation included a specific provision for reviewing the operation of the Act. My hope is that the review will lead to legislative change. This will require strong leadership and courage from the Government, she said. Ms OShea was later questioned on her call for leadership and asked to elaborate on her views on the Governments response to her recommendations. I did engage with the Minister for Health (Stephen Donnelly) and he seemed to receive the proposals quite well, she said. I suppose what Im really going on is really the soundbites that came out of the media, when I heard the Taoiseach and the Tanaiste refer to needing to give this consideration and the breach of promise with the electorate and the slow and steady sort of approach to it. Whereas really, this is a health service that was developed and was put into implementation in 2019. If it was any other health service being designed by the HSE, they now have these specialist clinical directorates, they dont launch new health services unless they are evidence based, and then they pilot them, and then they amend them. And its only when theyre satisfied that theyre capable of being implemented and are reaching their objectives, its only at that stage, they are rolled out. So, I find that attitude as to, you know, what does the electorate think about it to be a little disconcerting. She added: I certainly found those two comments disappointing. Later, independent TD Michael McNamara asked about her call for political courage and leadership. Ms OShea replied: Well, based on the comments of the Tanaiste and the Taoiseach and their perceived reluctance as I found it to interfere with the legislation or amend the legislation, I think that a bit of courage wouldnt go amiss. Mr McNamara asked whether politicians could equally show courage by not accepting her recommendations. He added: Do you think that people whose views you dont agree with can also be courageous and demonstrate leadership? Ms OShea responded by insisting her recommendations were based on evidence, not her personal opinion. My views are not the views that are expressed in the report, she said. They are evidence based, and this country has to respond to the needs of the people, democracy is the will of the people. The terms of reference were set down by the Department of Health. I think they were very good. They have shown an evidence base. What else is the Government going to go on except the evidence? The framework introduced after the referendum provides for unrestricted access to abortion up to 12 weeks in term. After that point, terminations are allowed in certain circumstances, such as in cases of fatal foetal abnormalities and when there is a risk to the wellbeing of the expectant mother. The review has recommended several changes to the system for determining when abortions can be granted post 12 weeks. Ms OShea said the Government had a legal duty to ensure Ireland lived up to its international commitments on abortion provision. Any time we sign up to an international convention, were supposed to interpret our law in a way that is consistent with the obligations under that convention, and I think this Act is falling far short of that. She suggested that if changes were not made, the Government could face legal challenges, with the prospect of the Taoiseach of the day finding themselves having to make an apology in the Dail and the state having to pay compensation. During Leaders Questions in the Dail later on Wednesday, public expenditure minister Paschal Donohoe was asked by Labour leader Ivana Bacik when the Government would implement the operational and legislative recommendations. Were all aware of the huge importance of this as a healthcare policy and also aware of the important report that the Government and Oireachtas received on the matter, he said. In relation to the operational points that you raised, we in the Government appreciate their seriousness. We have requested now that the HSE put in place an implementation group to respond back to the very important operational issues that have been raised in the provision of this vital care service to women. In relation to the legislative changes that youre referring to, the Government has decided, and I do think this is appropriate, that we allow the Oireachtas to consider the report first, and then the Government will, after the Oireachtas has considered it, reach a considered response back to the report thats been brought forward. Phone Calls Are Still Key for Customer Acquisition Ruby, a live virtual receptionist and chat specialist company, helps companies to meet today's customer demands for quick answers and personalized service, 24/7, 365 days a year. Its latest 2023 call trends report has uncovered that phone calls are still key when it comes to addressing customer concerns in real-time and understanding changing business realities. The report, which explores five key trends, including increased lead generation, rising robocalls, slightly more challenging calls, shifting workweeks, and changing seasonality in certain industries has uncovered insights from real-world conversations (62 million calls) its had over the past five years and has released them to help businesses adapt and succeed in todays ever-evolving landscape. With the COVID-19 pandemic which shifted relationships between businesses and customers and automation and cost-savings topping the list of priorities at most businesses, it can be easy to forget the importance of live interactions with customers. However, over the past five years, there has actually been a nearly 10% increase in lead opportunities over the phone, with an average of 56% of calls being from first-time callers in 2022 according to the report. Robocalls to businesses also saw a significant increase in 2022 after a decline in 2021, costing small businesses around $3 billion annually. Other trends the report also uncovered include more frustrated callers, busier Fridays, and shifts in seasonal business for industries like insurance and financial services. Stephanie Copeland Weber, President and COO of Ruby commented on the reports findings saying that the phone has become a vital tool for growth, as customers now contact businesses when they are ready to connect and take the next step in the buyer journey. With this as the reality, businesses must be prepared to meet and exceed expectations by providing informed, responsive, personalized, and empathetic service to secure new customers or clients. Please enable JavaScript to view the Edited by Greg Tavarez May 31, 2023 Time-series databases have long been an essential tool for managing plant performance. They are often at the heart of OT data systems, collecting and contextualizing plant equipment data to provide insight into both real-time and historical operating conditions. When paired with trending or visualization tools, these databases play a key role in maintenance, helping to pinpoint potential issues early to prevent costly downtime. They support detailed analysis of operational problems, helping teams understand and address root causes. And, they identify opportunities for process optimization, enabling continuous improvement of plant operations. Advances in Internet of Things (IoT) technology and cloud computing are changing how time-series data is gathered and applied for industrial operations. The question facing plant operation managers is how to approach gathering and analysis of sensor-based data. Two classes of time-series databases are currently in use: the well-established operational data infrastructures that use data historians and the new open-source time-series databases. Both classes perform essentially the same function, capturing operational data for analysis. However, the differences in the types of data accumulated, data gathering capabilities, and ease of use do matter to those who rely on the data. Data Historians: The Traditional Solution Data historians are the traditional means of capturing operational process data. These are databases designed for recording and logging time-series data from process equipment and automation systems for subsequent analysis. They also ensure secure storage and retrieval of plant process data. Introduced over three decades ago, these systems have found wide usage across various manufacturing sectors, including chemicals, oil and gas, pulp and paper, and pharmaceuticals. In industrial settings, plant engineers rely on data historians to monitor the multitude of interrelated processes. These tools provide engineers with precise performance metrics for every facet of the plant. This vital information allows them to confirm that operating parameters are adhered to, detect any inefficiencies, and schedule necessary maintenance in a timely manner. Beyond in-house operations, historian data also fuels external applications from automation vendors, integrating seamlessly even with proprietary software. Bridging the gap between Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT), operational data derived from historians is a potent tool, informing and shaping decisions in both realms. Modern Open Source (News - Alert) Time Series Databases With the IoT boom, there is an increase in demand for time-series databases and the growth of newer, open-source products. Open source is appealing because of the lower upfront costs, and organizations with in-house development opt for open source for specific projects where scalability, ease of use, and real-time data arent concerns. While open-source time-series databases can provide an invaluable platform for experimentation, they may also pose challenges related to performance and security. Additionally, In contrast with traditional historians, the responsibility of regular maintenance and updates for open source software falls on the user. These platforms might also suffer from constraints related to integration and interoperability with existing systems. An additional limitation of open-source time-series databases lies in their fundamental design. Essentially, these databases serve as a structured repository for disorganized data. However, they lack the industry-specific intentionality inherent in data historians. Unlike data historians, which were designed with industrial use cases such as manufacturing or process engineering in mind, open-source time-series databases are more generic in nature. This can potentially affect their effectiveness and utility in industrial applications. Choosing the Best Time-Series Option for Your Plant Choosing between open-source time-series databases and data historians depends on multiple considerations, including data types, speed to access, industry-specific requirements, legacy systems, and digital transformation strategies. Data historians remain valuable because they have been developed specifically for industrial processes. Modern data historians like dataPARCs are intended to deliver fast performance and for integration with other processes. For example, the newest data historian from dataPARC was designed to quickly export data to train cloud-based artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) models. Using AI/ML simulations, industrial processes can be modeled to quickly reveal choke points, identify potential points of failure, and for preventive equipment maintenance. As open-source time-series databases proliferate, they wont replace data historians. The two time-series databases are complementary, filling in data gaps. Data historians will continue to provide industry process data with an operational perspective, and innovative tools like dataPARCs data historian will give plant engineers data they can turn into actionable insight. [May 31, 2023] Blackhawk Network (BHN) Partners with Google Play to Bring Cash-to-Digital Payment Option to Japanese Consumers New partnership with Google Play delivers a seamless physical-to-digital funding experience for consumers while generating new payment and foot traffic opportunities for retailers PLEASANTON, Calif., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Blackhawk Network (BHN) has partnered with Google Play to launch a new way for consumers to enjoy their favourite digital apps and games by transacting in physical retail locations to convert real-world cash into digital currency. The partnership is powered by BHN's systems and retail partnerships, and Google Play's digital payments platform. It is due to launch in the middle of 2023 with Lawson Japan. Consumers begin each transaction using their phones, choose items to purchase, and then complete the transaction by simply presenting a barcode on their phones at a retail store. The cashier at the store scans the unique code on the phone, the customer pays,and the seamless bridge between physical and digital payments is complete, with real-world cash used for a digital purchase. This new service enables a fast seamless payment experience at Lawson. Through this new program introducing a suite of BHN's payment solutions, BHN is delivering on its goal to help retailers evolve the global in-store experience for the modern consumer, powering the digital transformation. And at the same time, BHN helps Google Play offer its users yet another way to enjoy millions of the latest apps, games, music, movies, TV, books, magazines and more, anytime and anywhere, across their Android devices. About Blackhawk Network Blackhawk Network (BHN) delivers branded payment solutions through the prepaid products, technologies and network that connect brands and people. We collaborate with our partners to innovate, translating market trends in branded payments to increase reach, loyalty, and revenue. We reliably execute security-minded solutions worldwide. Join us as we shape the future of global branded payments. Learn more at BHN.com. For more information, visit blackhawknetwork.com.au. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/blackhawk-network-bhn-partners-with-google-play-to-bring-cash-to-digital-payment-option-to-japanese-consumers-301838266.html SOURCE Blackhawk Network [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Community x SEEN, a first-to-market beauty specialist, nano creator marketing tool launches in the US market The revolutionary digital platform pairs undiscovered beauty creators with leading global beauty brands via hyper relevant opportunities to unlock richer social beauty experiences. NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SEEN Group, the integrated global beauty specialist business famed for clients such as Charlotte Tilbury, BYREDO, Fenty Beauty, L'Oreal, TATCHA, Shiseido Fragrances and Unilever has evolved its US offering to launch first-of-its-kind digital creator platform: COMMUNITY X SEEN (CXS). Following the highly successful debut of CXS in the UK 12 months prior, the product is expanding globally into the US market on June 1st, 2023. Community x SEEN, a first-to-market beauty specialist, nano creator marketing tool launches in the US market. Curated in partnership with the strategic communications expertise of the SEEN Group business, Community X SEEN was born in response to a rapidly evolving cultural, social and global creator landscape. Rooted in purpose, SEEN Group recognized the need to discover, nurture and connect socially engaged everyday beauty enthusiasts, pro specialists, and nano beauty creators with the best global brands, while simultaneously offering a solution to the accelerated digital aspirations of beauty brands to form a creative force for scaled content. Community X SEEN is the first uniquely beauty community network of more than 4,000 beauty-pecific creators accelerating rapidly, all of whom are meticulously categorized by their beauty and wellbeing preferences bringing a new level of authentic advocacy to support the consumer to make more informed purchasing. Alongside elevated content creation, brands will have the ability to tap this hyper-engaged beauty collective to trial and review exclusive new product launches, experience localized eventing in key regional DMAs across the country and collaborate on bespoke brand experiential activations whilst delivering specialized industry insights. By leveraging the agency's communications expertise and built-in creator community, brands can now share SEEN's mission to discover and champion new voices in beauty. "We identified a real opportunity to harness the power that exists at the nano creator level with scale to deliver brands' community goals in an accelerated way," shared Jane Walsh, SEEN Group CEO, adding "We are seeing that a volume of genuine peer-to-peer brand recommendation is ultra-effective independently and in parallel with higher, equity-building and awareness-driving influence to grow the beauty conversation, while simultaneously providing consumers with relatable knowledge to enable informed purchasing decisions through the voice of everyday, likeminded people." Community X SEEN also reinvests back into creators through bespoke social upskilling edutainment, exclusive access to coveted new brand launches and paid content collaborations to provide full funnel conversion and increased reach for brands and equally, impactful exposure for creators. "This is a natural evolution of our agency's service offerings to best meet the evolving US Communications landscape, address our clients changing IMC business needs and continue to define SEEN as a transformational partner," said Melissa Sansone, Managing Director of SEEN US. "As innate communicators and storytellers, Community x SEEN arms our team with a strong tool to deliver impactful strategies for our clients and ultimately, enable a collective collaboration to grow a new beauty industry for the future." The Community X SEEN digital platform portal is open for US creators and now accepting applications. More details, or to apply visit www.communityxseen.com . Follow us on Instagram and TikTok . ABOUT SEEN GROUP SEEN Group is a globally famed, high-performing beauty specialist business with influence. An industry-leading collective of beauty experts encompassing strategy, creative, communications and beyond. With offices in London and New York, and over 16 years of deep-rooted beauty experience, proven results, best in class relationships and diverse, talented teams, SEEN Group leads beauty transformation around the world both for brands and the creator economy. Deep knowledge. Courageous thinking. Brilliant ideas. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/community-x-seen-a-first-to-market-beauty-specialist-nano-creator-marketing-tool-launches-in-the-us-market-301837790.html SOURCE Beauty Seen Inc [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 30, 2023] Global Data Center Construction Market Flourishing with More than $73 Billion Investments in Next 6 years, Eyes on APAC: The Industry Thrives with Hyperscalers such as AWS, Meta, Google, and Microsoft's Strategic Moves - Arizton CHICAGO, May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Arizton's latest research report, the data center construction market will grow at a CAGR of 6.5% during 2022-2028. To Know More, Download the Free Sample Report: https://www.arizton.com/request-sample/3857 The data center construction market has become increasingly appealing due to its potential for higher returns on investment (ROI) than other commercial and industrial properties. In 2022, the market experienced substantial growth in the colocation sector, which can be attributed to factors such as accelerated digitalization resulting from the pandemic, initiatives taken by countries to advance technological infrastructure, the implementation of cutting-edge technologies like IoT, big data, 5G, and edge computing, and notable investments made by cloud service providers in different regions. The European data center market witnessed increased investment in countries such as Italy, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, and Switzerland. Multiple projects are being carried out by colocation, cloud, telecommunication, and internet service providers. In Central and Eastern European countries, such as Poland and the Czech Republic, the reason for increased investments is the increased unavailability and high cost of land for data center development, especially from a scalability perspective. In such cases, operators wanting to expand their presence in the European market would prefer to invest in these secondary markets, with ample land availability, access to power, and government support to set up data center operations. Global Data Center Construction Market Report Scope Report Attributes Details Market Size (2028) USD 73.43 Billion Market Size (2022) USD 50.34 Billion CAGR By Revenue (2022-2028) 6.50 % Market Size - Area (2028) 58.15 Million Square Feet Power Capacity (2028) 9.778.6 MW Base Year 2022 Forecast Year 2023-2028 Market Segmentation The facility, Infrastructure, Electrical Infrastructure, Mechanical Infrastructure, Cooling Systems, Cooling Technique, General Construction, Tier Standards, and Geography Geographic Analysis North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Nordics, Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa, APAC, and Southeast Asia Market Dynamics Growing Submarine & Inland Connectivity Increasing M&As and JVs across the Industry Big Data & IoT Fueling Data Center Investments Government Support for Data Center Investments Increasing Demand for Cloud-Based Services Looking for More Information? Download the Free Sample Report: https://www.arizton.com/request-sample/3857 In 2022, hyperscale investments in the US were over 25 projects by major operators, including Meta (Facebook), Google, Microsoft, and Amazon Web Services. In 2022, Meta (Facebook) led the investment category with 11 data center expansions, under construction, and planned projects. Microsoft followed Meta (Facebook) with investments in around 8 data center projects. In 2022, several hyperscale operators announced expanding, developing, or acquiring additional land for potential future data center developments. Some of these operators will likely expand their existing data center facilities during the forecast period instead of developing new ones. However, hyperscale data center investments will likely slow down after 3 to 4 years. Recently, Meta (Facebook) announced its plan to pause expanding and constructing new data center facilities across the US and the world. The company aims to design a new AI data center and redesign its data center facilities for artificial intelligence workloads. However, we believe that the hyperscale investment by Meta (Facebook) in general will come down in the next 1-2 years until the AI data center design is finalized by Meta (Facebook). The recently announced and planned data center facilities are expected to be delayed. Some facilities that were paused include Huntsville, Alabama, and Temple, Texas. Hyperscale providers in the region are continuously expanding into the region. For instance, AWS announced its plan to invest around $2.4 billion in the UK for building and operating data centers. There is an entry of new cloud providers in the market, such as Micro Focus, which will aid in increasing the Western Europe data center construction market area. Buy the Report Now: https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/global-data-center-construction-market-2025 Post-Purchase Benefit???????? 1hr of free analyst discussion 10% of customization Vendor Insights Data Center Support Infrastructure Providers Vendors such as Schneider Electric, Rittal, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and Delta Power Solutions provide infrastructure based on OCP design. This will aid in market revenue growth for these vendors, as many organizations prefer solutions such as 48V DC UPS systems. The colocation providers are undertaking the construction of facilities in a phased manner, depending on the market demand. Over the next few years, there is expected to be more demand for higher capacity systems in the redundancy configuration of 2N for power infrastructure across multiple facilities. The operators that continuously innovate their products in the global data center construction market based on current demand and trends and focus on the sustainable part will attract more customers and have a higher industry share. Data Center Construction Contractors The surge in data center activities worldwide will be a major source of revenue for construction contractors. Some prominent construction contractors include AECOM, Arup, Corgan, DPR Construction, Fortis Construction, Holder Construction, Jacobs, Turner Construction, Syska Hennessy Group, RED Engineering, and Turner & Townsend. The availability of a skilled and qualified workforce continues to be a major challenge for data center operators and construction contractors. Designing a data center can cost around 4%6% of the total investment, depending on the data center's size and capacity and labor cost. Data Center Investors/ Operators The major hyperscale operators investing in the data center construction market include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft, Meta (Facebook), and Google. The major colocation operators active in the industry include Equinix, Digital Realty, Switch, QTS Realty Trust, Iron Mountain, DataBank, Vantage Data Centers, CyrusOne, NTT Global Data Centers, Compass Datacenters, and others. The data center construction market also witnessed several new entrants such as AUBix, Corscale Data Centers, Edge Centres, Evolution Data Centres, Global Technical Realty, iMCritical, Yondr, Power House Data Centers, YCO Cloud, Stratus DC Management, Quantum Loophole, others. Rapid expansion plans by global operators increase M&A activities. For instance, AdaniConneX is a JV data center firm between India -based Adani Group and edge data center firm EdgeConneX. The report includes the investment in the following areas: Segmentation by Facility Type Hyperscale Data Centers Colocation Data Centers Enterprise Data Centers Segmentation by Infrastructure Electrical Infrastructure Mechanical Infrastructure General Construction Segmentation by Electrical Infrastructure UPS Systems Generators Transfer Switches & Switchgears PDUs Other Electrical Infrastructure Segmentation by Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems Racks Other Mechanical Infrastructure Segmentation by Cooling Systems CRAC & CRAH Units Chiller Units Cooling Towers, Condensers, & Dry Coolers Economizers & Evaporative Coolers Other Cooling Units Segmentation by Cooling Technique Air-based Cooling Liquid-based Cooling Segmentation by General Construction Core & Shell Development Installation & Commissioning Services Building & Engineering Design Fire Detection & Suppression Physical Security DCIM/BMS Solutions Segmentation by Tier Standards Tier I & Tier II Tier III Tier IV Segmentation by Geography North America The U.S. Canada Latin America Brazil Mexico Chile Colombia Rest of Latin America Western Europe The U.K. France Germany Netherlands Ireland Switzerland Italy Spain Portugal Belgium Other Western European Countries Nordics Sweden Denmark Norway Finland & Iceland & Central & Eastern Europe Russia Poland Austria Czech Republic Other CEE Countries Middle East UAE Saudi Arabia Oman Israel Kuwait Qatar Jordan Bahrain Other Middle East Countries Africa South Africa Kenya Nigeria Egypt Ethiopia Other African Countries APAC China Hong Kong Australia New Zealand India Japan South Korea Taiwan Rest of APAC Southeast Asia Singapore Indonesia Malaysia Thailand Philippines Vietnam Other Southeast Asia Countries Major Vendors Key Data Center Support Infrastructure Providers ABB Caterpillar Cummins Delta Electronics Eaton Legrand Rolls-Royce Schneider Electric STULZ Vertiv Other Data Center Support Infrastructure Providers 3M Airedale Alfa Laval Asetek Assa Abloy Bloom Energy Carrier Condair Cormant Cyber Power Systems Daikin Applied Data Aire Enlogic FNT Software Generac Power Systems Green Revolution Cooling (GRC) HITEC Power Protection Honeywell Johnson Controls KOHLER KyotoCooling Mitsubishi Electric Munters Natron Energy NetZoom Nlyte Software Panduit Piller Power Systems Rittal Siemens Trane ( Ingersoll Rand ) ) Tripp Lite Yanmar (HIMOINSA) ZincFive Key Data Center Contractors AECOM Arup Corgan DPR Construction Fortis Construction Holder Construction Jacobs Mercury Red Engineering Rogers-O'Brien Construction Syska Hennessy Group Turner Construction Turner & Townsend Other Data Center Contractors AlfaTech Atkins Aurecon Basler & Hofmann BlueScope Construction Brasfield & Gorrie CallisonRTKL Cap Ingelec Clark Construction Group Climatec Clune Construction COWI DC PRO Engineering Dornan Edarat Group EMCOR Group EYP MCF Gensler Fluor Corporation Gilbane Building Company HDR HHM Building Contracting HITT Contracting Hoffman Construction ISG JE Dunn Construction Kirby Group Engineering kW Engineering kW Mission Critical Engineering Laing O'Rourke Linesight M+W Group (Exyte) McLaren Construction Group Morrison Hershfield Mortenson PM Group Quark Rosendin Royal HaskoningDHV Salute Mission Critical Sheehan Nagle Hartray Architects Skanska Southland Industries Studio One Design Sturgeon Electric Company Structure Tone Sweco The Mulhern Group The Walsh Group The Weitz Company TRINITY Group Construction Key Data Center Operators 21Vianet Group (VNET) Amazon Web Services Apple China Telecom Colt Data Centre Services (Colt DCS) Compass Datacenters CoreSite CyrusOne Digital Realty EdgeConneX (EQT Infrastructure) Equinix GDS Services Global Switch Google Iron Mountain Meta (Facebook) Microsoft NTT Global Data Centers QTS Realty Trust STACK Infrastructure ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Vantage Data Centers Other Data Center Operators 3data Africa Data Centres AirTrunk Aligned American Tower AQ Compute Aruba AtlasEdge atNorth AT TOKYO BDx (Big Data Exchange) Bulk Infrastructure Bridge Data Centres CDC Data Centres Chayora China Mobile Chindata CloudHQ Cologix Compass Datacenters COPT Data Center Solutions CtrlS Datacenters Cyxtera Technologies Data4 DataBank DC BLOX Element Critical ePLDT eStruxture Data Centers fifteenfortyseven Critical Systems Realty (1547) Flexential Green Mountain H5 Data Centers HostDime KDDI Keppel Data Centres LG Uplus maincubes one MainOne (Equinix) Milicom (Tigo) NEXTDC ODATA Open Access Data Centres (OADC) Orange Business Services Prime Data Centers Princeton Digital Group (PDG) Proximity Data Centres Raxio Group Rostelecom Data Centers Sabey Data Centers Scala Data Centers Sify Technologies Skybox Datacenters Stream Data Centers SUNeVision (iAdvantage) Switch T5 Data Centers Tenglong Holdings Group Teraco (Digital Realty) TierPoint Turkcell Urbacon Data Centre Solutions Wingu Yondr Yotta Infrastructure (Hiranandani Group) New Data Center Investors AdaniConneX AUBix Cloudoon ClusterPower Corscale Data Centers Damac Data Centres (EDGNEX) Data Center First DHAmericas Edge Centres Evolution Data Centres Global Technical Realty Hickory iMCritical Infinity Kasi Cloud MettaDC Open Access Data Centres PowerHouse Data Pure Data Centres Group Quantum Loophole Quantum Switch Tamasuk (QST) Stratus DC Management YCO Cloud YTL Data Center ZeroPoint DC Check Out Some of the Top-Selling Research Reports: Data Center Cooling Market - Global Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028: The data center cooling market investment to reach USD 12.43 billion by 2027. The increasing construction of hyperscale data centers propelled the energy demand by more than 600 terawatt-hours of electricity in 2021. A data center can consume power ranging from 100 kW to over 100 MW, although the total power consumed by data center cooling systems accounts for around 40%. Data Center Power Market - Global Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028: The data center power market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 5% from 2022 to 2027. The emergence of nickel-zinc batteries and continuous innovations in improving the solutions' modularity will intensify the market competition. ABB, Caterpillar, and Cummins are prominent data center power market vendors. Hyperscale Data Center Market - Global Outlook and Forecast 2022-2027: The global hyperscale data center market to cross USD 175 billion by 2027. Growing cloud service adoptions, big data & IoT adoption, submarine cable & inland connectivity, and growth in M&AS and joint ventures are some of the growth driving factors. Data Center Market - Global Outlook & Forecast 2022-2027: The global data center market to cross USD 288 billion by 2027. Facebook, AWS, Microsoft, Google, Digital Realty, Vantage Data Centers, GDS Holding, 21Vianet, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres, NTT Global Data Centers, and Equinix are some of the leading investors in the data center market. About Us:??????????????????????????? Arizton Advisory and Intelligence is an innovative and quality-driven firm that offers cutting-edge research solutions to clients worldwide. We excel in providing comprehensive market intelligence reports and advisory and consulting services.????????????????????????? We offer comprehensive market research reports on consumer goods & retail technology, automotive and mobility, smart tech, healthcare, life sciences, industrial machinery, chemicals, materials, I.T. and media, logistics, and packaging. These reports contain detailed industry analysis, market size, share, growth drivers, and trend forecasts.?????????????????????????? Arizton comprises a team of exuberant and well-experienced analysts who have mastered generating incisive reports. Our specialist analysts possess exemplary skills in market research. We train our team in advanced research practices, techniques, and ethics to outperform in fabricating impregnable research reports.??????????????????????????? Contact Us???????????????????????? Call: +1-312-235-2040??????????????????????? ????????? +1 302 469 0707?????????????????????? Mail:?[email protected]???????????????????????? Contact Us:?https://www.arizton.com/contact-us???????????????????????? Blog:?https://www.arizton.com/blog???????????????????????? Website:?https://www.arizton.com/???????? Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088186/Data_Center_Construction_Market.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/818553/Arizton_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/global-data-center-construction-market-flourishing-with-more-than-73-billion-investments-in-next-6-years-eyes-on-apac-the-industry-thrives-with-hyperscalers-such-as-aws-meta-google-and-microsofts-strategic-moves---arizton-301837605.html [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 30, 2023] MariaDB Announces New Management Appointments MariaDB plc (NYSE:MRDB) today announced Paul O'Brien has been appointed as the company's new CEO and will serve as a member of the board of directors, effective May 26, 2023. Michael Howard, the company's current CEO, will remain on the board of directors to provide strategic planning and oversight. The board has also appointed Tom Siegel as chief revenue officer (CRO) to lead the sales, consulting, support and training teams, and Jonah Harris as chief technology officer (CTO), effective June 5, 2023. "Paul and Tom both have a track record of building successful SaaS companies as well as a broad understanding of how to drive growth and profitability at companies such as MariaDB," said Alex Suh, chairman of the board, MariaDB plc. "Over the course of seven and a half years, Michael has expertly architected the transformation of MariaDB from an open-source offering to a cloud business that successfully competes with the hyperscalers. It's thanks to his leadership and accomplishments that we enter the next growth phase, which is already reflected in our robust Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) growth. With the additions of Paul and Tom to our already strong management team, we are confident we can move further and faster toward our ambitious goals." "MariaDB is headed in the right direction - look at the amazing talent we've attracted, the differentiation of our products - momentum is building and it's the start of something spectacular," said Howard. "For the next phase of growth, bringing in a fresh set of eyes is what's needed to get to the next step. After many years of everyone's hard work - from engineering to sales and marketing, and everyone in between, it's all coming together. My heartfelt thanks to everyone." O'Brien has served as SVP, sales and field operations of the company since March 2023. Prior to joining MariaDB, he served as VP, Operations at NetApp, Inc., a storage and data management company and VP, Business Intelligence and Operations at Symantec Corporation, a security company. Prior to that, O'Brien held various management positions at EMC Corporation, a storage and data management company, and HP Inc. (then Hewlett-Packard Company), a technology company, and also served as a partner at Prism Venture Partners, a venture firm. In all these roles, O'Brien was responsible for successfully guiding companies in their evolution from on-prem deployments and perpetual license software to subscription and cloud-based models. "Having guided MariaDB sales, I've personally witnessed the immense value we deliver to customers through our products and people," said O'Brien. "There is a huge opportunity at MariaDB's fingertips and I am confident in our ability to capitalize on this potential and achieve unrecedented growth. Michael led us through significant milestones - we are now a publicly traded company with a strong cloud product. This facilitates a smooth transition to a focused go-to-market strategy to accelerate the business toward a targeted $100 million ARR by the end of 2025." Siegel has an impressive background as a sales and operations executive, coupled with extensive experience building and leading high-performance teams for both private and public SaaS companies. He was most recently CRO at Bringg, a SaaS delivery management platform. Prior to that, he was chief sales officer at Fuze, a cloud communications software company and VP of worldwide sales operations at PTC, a global software company. He has also held sales leadership positions at EMC and BMC Software. Siegel has successfully driven accelerated growth for SaaS companies through a combination of go-to-market strategy, sales leadership and adherence to key performance metrics, with demonstrated ARR growth from $50 million to $100 million. "MariaDB has gone through an incredible transformation to become a prominent cloud company with MariaDB SkySQL, a second generation cloud database," said Siegel. "This presents a remarkable opportunity for the company to take a larger share of the relational database market, expected to be $72 billion by 2026. I look forward to working with the stellar team at MariaDB to continue driving value to customers, whether its cloud services such as backup and observability to community on-prem users or multicloud benefits with exceptional scale and resilience." About MariaDB MariaDB is a new generation cloud database company whose products are used by companies big and small, reaching more than a billion users through Linux distributions and have been downloaded over one billion times. Deployed in minutes and maintained with ease, leveraging cloud automation, our database products are engineered to support any workload, any cloud and any scale - all while saving up to 90% of proprietary database costs. Trusted by organizations such as Bandwidth, DigiCert, InfoArmor, Oppenheimer, Samsung, SelectQuote and SpendHQ, MariaDB's software is the backbone of critical services that people rely on every day. Learn more at mariadb.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often contain words such as "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "estimate," "believe," "seek," "will," "would," similar or comparable expressions, and variations or negatives of such words. Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain, such as the benefits of management changes, future opportunities for us and our products and services (including increased business in the cloud), and any other statements regarding MariaDB's future operations, anticipated growth, financial or operating results or condition, market opportunities, strategies, anticipated business levels, planned activities, and other expectations and targets for future periods. As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, our actual results, condition, or performance, including ARR, may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include: (a) successful integration of new management; (b) our ability to continue as a going concern and to secure additional financing needed to meet short-term and long-term liquidity needs; (c) our ability to compete in an increasingly competitive environment and grow our business; (d) our ability to retain and recruit qualified personnel, including officers, directors and other key personnel (including those with public company experience); (e) our ability to realize the anticipated benefits of being a public company and effectively operate as a public company; (f) any regulatory actions or litigation relating to, among other things, the business combination with Angel Pond Holdings Corporation; (g) our ability to maintain the listing of our ordinary shares, public warrants or other securities on the NYSE; and (h) other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in our SEC filings, such as on Forms 10-Q and 10-K, including those under "Risk Factors" therein, and other documents filed or to be filed with the SEC by us. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and we assume no obligation and, except as required by law, do not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. We give no assurance that we will achieve our expectations or plans, which may change over time. Source: MariaDB View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230530005578/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] The Minister of Culture, Neveen El-Kilany, announced the winners of the Nile, Appreciation, and Excellency awards in the 69th meeting of the SCC. Below is the complete list of winners: Nile Awards The Nile Award in Arts was awarded to the painter, drawer, illustrator, photographer, and sculptor Abdel-Salam Eid. The Nile Award of Literature was given to the late translator, also known as the Sheikh of Translators, Mohammed Enani. The Nile Award in Social Sciences went to the thinker and political science professor Ali El-Din Hilal. The Nile Award for the Most Creative Arab Personality was awarded to Iraqi painter and sculptor Diaa Azzawi. Appreciation Awards The Appreciation Award in Arts was awarded to Musician Hany Shenouda, President of Acting Professions Syndicate Ashraf Zaki, and Architect Dalila Al-Kardani. The Appreciation Award in Literature was given to late writer Abdel-Rahim Al-Kurdi, novelist Hala Al-Badry, and literary critic Ahmed Youssef. The Appreciation Award in Social Sciences was handed to El-Sayed Falaifal, Hassan El-Saady, and Saleh Salem. Excellency Awards The Excellency Award in Arts was handed to Rania Yehia and Afifi Hassanein The Excellency Award in Literature was handed out to the late Mostafa Selim and Fathi Abdel-Sami The Excellency Award in Social Sciences was given to Hana Gawhari, Hassan Salama, and Ahmed Ragab Fact box The state awards have been handed out annually since 1958. They were cancelled due to the 1967 Six-Day War between Egypt and Israel. This year saw 49 prizes in total: 28 Encouragement Awards, seven Excellency Awards, 10 Appreciation Awards, and four Nile Awards. The Encouragement Awards were divided as follows: eight for the arts, four for literature, eight for social sciences, and eight for law and economic research. As for the Excellency Award, prominent figures, such as the political analyst Ammar Ali Hassan and economic expert Ahmed El-Naggar, won the award in 2021. The Appreciation Award was first presented in 1999. Novelists Khairy Shalaby and Gamal El-Ghitani, poet Mohammed Afifi Mattar, and critic Gaber Asfour are among the past winners. The Nile Awards were previously called the Mubarak Award. The name has been changed after toppling former president Hosni Mubarak in 2011. Poet Abdel-Rahman El-Abnoudi, writers Bahaa Taher, Ibrahim Aslan, and Waheed Hamed, and cinema director Youssef Chahine are the most prominent figures to date who have won the Nile Award. [May 30, 2023] SpotCam Launches a New Cloud Pet Camera TAIPEI, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With the rising number of pet owners, the demand for pet care is also growing rapidly. SpotCam a leading Taiwanese cloud video monitoring solution provider announces the SpotCam Mibo cloud AI pet camera launch. Besides the motion and audio detection, the new product also comes with pet detection and tracking functions purposefully designed for pet caring, allowing the camera to pan and tilt automatically when it detects cats or dogs in the scene. Furthermore, SpotCam also offers optional pet sound detection. Upon subscription, instant alerts will be sent when a dog barking or cat meowing sound is detected by the camera. Aside from useful pet-caring functions, the SpotCam Mibo cloud pet camera is also an outstanding video monitoring camera. It comes with 2K high-resolution video and automatic night mode and supports 360-degree horizontal pan and 90-degree vertical tilt with configurable preset points. Furthermore, the built-in microphone and speakers with two-way audio function allow the owners to soothe pets remotely by talking to them even when away and never worry about separation anxiety anymore. SpotCam Mibo also supports human detection and tracking function to help owners keep an eye on not only the pets but any intruder or suspicious people around them to make sure their safety. When it comes to the optional cloud AI services, except for the aforementioned pet sound detection function, there is also a video diary function that creates time-lapse videos of your fur baby automatically each day and keeps all the precious moments for you. SpotCam Mibo is also the one and only pet camera in the market with a free forever 24-hour full-time cloud recording plan, there's no need to purchase microSD cards. There are also optional cloud recording plans for up to 365 days for subscriptions depending on users' needs. SpotCam offers their customers high-quality products at an affordable price, visit the SpotCam website for more information about the SpotCam Mibo cloud pet camera: https://www.myspotcam.com/. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/spotcam-launches-a-new-cloud-pet-camera-301836988.html SOURCE SpotCam Co., Ltd [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 30, 2023] FxPro wins big at the 11th edition of Global Brands Magazine Awards FxPro has won the "Best Online Broker in Asia" and "Most Innovative Trading Platform in the MENA region" in the year 2023. LONDON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Global Brand Awards is an annual event held by Global Brands Magazine (GBM), an international publication headquartered in the UK. FxPro was evaluated based on customer service, satisfaction, digital innovation, strategic relationships, and new business development. Commenting on FxPro winning the awards, Jay Reddy, Director of Global Brands Magazine said, "We are amazed that FxPro won two awards for two separate regions! This is a company that is backed by a strong management team, consistently delivering world class performance." Commenting on winning the awards, Elsy Rayess, Head of Business Development FxPro, said, "We are thrilled to have been recognized s the Best Online Broker in Asia and Most Innovative Trading Platform in the MENA region. These awards are a testament to our commitment to providing our clients with exceptional service and innovative technology as we continue to make ongoing improvements to our trading offering. At FxPro, we strive to deliver the best possible trading experience to our clients, and we are proud to have our efforts acknowledged by these prestigious awards." About FxPro FxPro offers CFDs on FX, Shares, Spot Indices, Futures, Spot Metals, Spot Energy & Cryptos. We provide traders with access to top-tier liquidity, advanced trading platforms and tools, and award-winning order execution with no-dealing-desk intervention. In our 16+ years as a leader in the online trading industry, we have remained a strong advocate of transparency and received more than 100+ awards for the professional trading conditions we offer. About Global Brands Magazine Global Brands Magazine is the largest digital branding publication, commanding a substantial audience of around 10 million+ visitors. Functioning as a distinguished platform, it showcases and commends exceptional brands from across the world. About Global Brand Awards The Global Brand Awards, hosted by Global Brands Magazine, is an esteemed annual event that highlights exemplary standards in branding, marketing, and customer engagement. The awards ceremony, characterized by a captivating gala event hosted in some of the world's finest hotels, serves as a gathering of influential business leaders, marketing executives, and esteemed representatives from the media. Check out our social media shout outs from the links below: Facebook: https://bit.ly/3MJduxH Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3oFrMY3 Instagram: https://bit.ly/3OLrJo5 Twitter: https://bit.ly/45OfoFY View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/fxpro-wins-big-at-the-11th-edition-of-global-brands-magazine-awards-301837619.html SOURCE Global Brands Publications Limited [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 30, 2023] ZBX Revolutionizes Financial Services in Hong Kong with Web 3.0 Debit Card Concept HONG KONG, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ZBX, a leading financial company, announces its arrival in Hong Kong, perfectly timed to coincide with the initiation of the city's new crypto regulations, effective from June 2023. ZBX is poised to become the pioneering force in providing a comprehensive one-stop solution for Web 3.0 enthusiasts in Hong Kong through an innovative card solution, which can be seamlessly used for transactions in both cryptocurrencies and traditional fiat currencies. With the rapid growth and adoption of Web 3.0 technologies, ZBX recognizes the evolving needs of Hong Kong citizens in the digital economy. The planned launch of a versatile debit card signifies a significant milestone in the company's mission to empower individuals and revolutionize financial services in the Web 3.0 era. A ZBX Web 3.0 debit card will offer unmatched convenience and flexibility, enabling users to transact effortlessly, regardless of whether they prefer cryptocurrencies or traditional fiat currencies. Through this groundbreaking solution, ZBX aims to ridge the gap between the digital and traditional financial worlds, providing a seamless user experience and fostering wider adoption of Web 3.0 technologies. To ensure a flawless user experience and enhance the functionality of their debit card, ZBX is actively seeking collaboration with key players in the Hong Kong Web 3.0 industry. These industry leaders will be invited to participate in ZBX's exclusive first beta testing round, gaining early access to innovative debit card programs and providing valuable feedback for further refinement. ZBX believes that this collaborative effort will be instrumental in shaping the future of Web 3.0 finance in Hong Kong. Simultaneously, ZBX is dedicated to working closely with the Hong Kong Government and leading Web 3.0 industry players to create a safe, secure, and regulated ecosystem for Web 3.0 technologies in the region. By actively engaging in dialogues and leveraging its expertise, ZBX seeks to contribute to the establishment of industry best practices and robust regulatory frameworks that will ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of Web 3.0 in Hong Kong. ZBX is committed to delivering exceptional financial services, combining cutting-edge technology, regulatory compliance, and a customer-centric approach. As ZBX lands in Hong Kong, the company looks forward to empowering individuals and businesses in the digital economy, providing them with the tools and infrastructure needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving Web 3.0 landscape. About ZBX: ZBX is a leading financial company that leverages the power of Web 3.0 technologies to provide innovative solutions for individuals and businesses. Through its comprehensive range of products and services, ZBX aims to transform the financial landscape and empower users in the digital economy. For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected] View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/zbx-revolutionizes-financial-services-in-hong-kong-with-web-3-0-debit-card-concept-301837794.html SOURCE ZBX [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 30, 2023] Huawei Cloud Indonesia and AFPI Jointly Hosted FinTech Summit 2023 in Jakarta, Accelerating Digital Financial Inclusion in Indonesia and Unlocking New Growth in FinTech JAKARTA, Indonesia, May 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Huawei Cloud and the Indonesian Joint Funding Fintech Association, or Asosiasi Fintech Pendanaan Bersama Indonesia (AFPI), jointly hosted the Huawei Cloud Indonesia FinTech Summit themed "Unlocking New Growth in FinTech with Huawei Cloud". More than 80 representatives from Indonesian FinTech companies, partners, regulators, and banks attended the summit to discuss ways to advance digital financial inclusion in Indonesia. At the summit, Huawei Cloud, the Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (or OJK, Indonesia's Financial Services Authority), and dozens of companies jointly announced the Indonesia Digital Finance Innovation Program, and its mission to jointly explore and incubate new digital finance solutions and services, strengthen cooperation with FinTech companies, support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), and build a robust digital finance ecosystem in Indonesia. James Zhang,CEO of Huawei Cloud Indonesia, gave a speech and pointed out that "Huawei Cloud aims to be the leader of the new cloud generation. Building a solid cloud foundation is a key initiative to achieve our vision. We intend to become a powerful contributor to Indonesia's digital transformation through our local datacenter, local services, and local ecosystem." Bambang W. Budiawan, Deputy Commissioner for Supervision of Financing Institutions and Other Financial Services Institutions, said: "OJK aims to achieve a 90% financial inclusion index in Indonesia, and building a digital financial inclusion ecosystem is the most effective way to do that. We are pleased to see leading technolgy companies like Huawei participating in digital finance innovation in Indonesia." "A crucial element of a financial institution's mitigation of risk from a cloud provider is a comprehensive risk management and oversight program. The robustness of the cloud provider's risk management and oversight program includes due diligence and monitoring, evaluation of performance metrics, security, risk controls, and disaster recovery plans," he added. Mr. Satwika Daksawardhana, Vice President of BNC, Indonesia's largest digital bank, said: "The strategy of BNC is to work with diverse partners to serve diverse customers. But this strategy might risk security, which in turn slows down iteration and leads to inflexible technology architecture. Fortunately, BNC has a reliable partner, Huawei Cloud, who makes sure that everything happens smoothly." James Huang, Huawei Cloud's Global Fintech Solution Sales Director, gave a speech at the summit. He said, "Huawei Cloud has many years of experience serving customers from the financial sector all over the world. With data centers in most parts of the world, Huawei Cloud offers full-stack cloud services and high-quality cooperation platforms, making it an ideal choice for financial service providers looking for a cloud partner that they can trust." Insisting on driving digital growth with Everything-as-a-Service, Huawei Cloud offers FinTech companies compute, storage, and network resources from one global network, plus more advanced services featuring big data-AI convergence. On top of these, it offers digital finance solutions in the following categories: Agile innovation: Huawei Cloud's cloud-native container technology helps FinTech companies confidently handle large volumes of transactions at high concurrency. Smart risk control: The convergence of big data and AI technologies enables smarter risk control for small loans to reduce bad debts. Intelligent operations: Huawei Cloud offers intelligent operations solutions, such as intelligent call center, to help FinTech companies improve customer acquisition and retention. Security and compliance: Huawei Cloud has over 100 certifications for security and compliance, which can help customers in FinTech meet compliance and regulatory requirements. Huawei Cloud's geo-redundant disaster recovery (DR) solution offers a high level of security for customer data on the cloud. With leading products and 24/7 support from professional service teams, Huawei Cloud offers FinTech companies a most smooth and productive cloud journey in Indonesia, for Indonesia. By offering a cutting-edge cloud foundation and a full range of digital finance solutions, Huawei Cloud is committed to working with Indonesia's FinTech companies and regulatory bodies to advance digital financial inclusion in Indonesia, and inject new energy into Indonesia's digital economy. About Huawei Founded in 1987, Huawei is a leading global provider of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices. With integrated solutions across four key domains telecom networks, IT, smart devices, and cloud services we are committed to bringing digital to every person, home, and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world. Huawei's end-to-end portfolio of products, solutions and services are both competitive and secure. Through open collaboration with ecosystem partners, we create lasting value for our customers, working to empower people, enrich home life, and inspire innovation in organizations of all shapes and sizes. At Huawei, innovation focuses on customer needs. We invest heavily in basic research, concentrating on technological breakthroughs that drive the world forward. We have more than 207,000 employees, and we operate in more than 170 countries and regions. Huawei is a private company wholly owned by its employees. For more information, please visit Huawei online at: https://www.facebook.com/huaweiforindonesia/ https://www.instagram.com/huaweiforindonesia/ http://www.huawei.com/minisite/explore-indo/en/ View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/huawei-cloud-indonesia-and-afpi-jointly-hosted-fintech-summit-2023-in-jakarta-accelerating-digital-financial-inclusion-in-indonesia-and-unlocking-new-growth-in-fintech-301837978.html SOURCE Huawei Cloud Indonesia [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 30, 2023] Bluebell Group releases "2023 Asia Lifestyle Consumer Profile" Tracking lifestyle consumption drivers & trends across Asia HONG KONG, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Asia's leading brand distributor and operator Bluebell Group released today the third volume of the "Asia Lifestyle Consumer Profile". Based on an Asia-wide survey covering 1,765 premium lifestyle consumers across 6 markets, the study presents insights into evolving sentiments and trends shaping consumption across premium and luxury segments including fashion, accessories & footwear, beauty, fragrance & make-up, active lifestyle and jewellery & watch. This year, three core trends have emerged in our study: Trend 1 - 'Safe' luxury: after the storm, consumers find a new comfort zone Figures suggest a resurgence of 'traditional' attitudes toward luxury, including the status that it represents, the importance placed on a brand's reputation, and expectations on service. But markets show distinct comfort zones when it comes to shopping pre-owned, local and niche. "During the pandemic, premium and luxury brands focused resources toward nurturing consumer relationships in new and innovative ways, through one-on-one interactions and other tailored retail solutions," said Bluebell Group President & CEO Ashley Micklewright. "Going forward, we see consumers continue to expect this heightened level of service excellence, which is particular to Asia." In 2023, luxury and status remain tightly interlinked in the minds of Asian consumers, led by Mainland China (94%) (above left). Interestingly, SEA and Japan saw high growths in consumers who agree that traditional luxury branded items make them feel like they have "achieved a certain status in life". Meanwhile, support for local brands has grown across mainland China (+5%), SEA (+14%), Korea (+13%) and Taiwan (+1%), where consumers agree they want to "support up and coming local premium brands that are gaining reputation" (above right). Trend 2 - The 'Feel Good' value shift: Healthy, Natural, Ethical Consumers want to feel good and make up for lost time. But where we might expect them to pursue simple hedonism, thei definition of feeling good goes far beyond self-gratification. "While we see a strong 'revenge living' mentality, consumers appear to consider ethical and sustainable values as important components in the pleasure of purchasing premium and luxury products. Today it is an expectation," said Anne Geronimi, Group Communication and Sustainability Director. Already high in 2022, interest in 'natural choice' brands (above left) rose in SEA (+6%), Mainland China (+4%) and Korea (+3%). In all markets except for Japan, over 85% of respondents agree that they now prefer to buy those more 'natural' choice brands, be it in their ingredients or fabric. More widespread yet is the year-on-year growth in consumers who attach importance to brands' ethics and values (above right) - a growth led by Japan (+15%, from 62% to 77%) and SEA (+8%, from 83% to 91%). Mainland Chinese respondents (97%) are the most likely to check the ethics behind a brand before they purchase it. Trend 3 - New horizons: domestic and regional travel appeal Even as international destinations court them, mainland Chinese and Japanese consumers are drawn to local destinations. And while travellers from the rest of Asia are willing to spend on experiences, mainland Chinese travellers still plan to spend most on shopping both abroad and at home. "Travel and spending intent is good news for domestic destinations like Hainan in China, which invested heavily in the island's infrastructure to cater to both consumer experiences and shopping offering during the pandemic," said Samy Redjeb, Greater China Managing Director. While domestic destinations are attracting some consumers away from international travel (see report), they elicit different spending intents among consumers, with experiences such as F&B, spa and concerts (above top) topping the planned spending categories for the region as a whole. Mainland Chinese consumers are the exception to the rule: they are most likely to spend on luxury fashion (44%), beauty & Skincare (44%) and jewellery & watches (41%) during domestic travel. By contrast, spending intent during international travel is topped by luxury fashion, ranking first among consumers from Japan (67%), Korea (54%) and Taiwan (61%) (above bottom). Experiences (e.g. F&B, spa, concerts) rank second overall in Asia, and top the ranking for consumers from Hong Kong (64%). To download the full report, please visit https://www.bluebellgroup.com/market-insights/. ABOUT BLUEBELL GROUP Bluebell Group has pioneered building successful brands in Asia since 1954. As Asia's partner of choice, Bluebell Group is present in Japan, South Korea, Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, Taiwan, Macau SAR, Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia and Australia. The Group's distribution network includes flagship stores, shop-in-shops, counters, its own multi-brand concepts, as well as a highly selective wholesale network, together with both direct e-commerce and marketplaces, covering both domestic and Travel Retail. The Group operates across multiple product categories: Accessories, Footwear, Apparel, Fragrance, Beauty, Gourmet, Jewellery, Watches, Eyewear and Tobacco. A family-owned group, Bluebell Group today has over 3,800 employees, 650 points-of-sale, US$2b in turnover. PRESS CONTACT: Anne Geronimi, Group Communication Director [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/bluebell-group-releases-2023-asia-lifestyle-consumer-profile-301838022.html SOURCE Bluebell Group [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 30, 2023] Anduril Industries partners with three leading Japanese firms to help transform defense capability. SYDNEY, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Anduril Industries, a defense technology company, reached a significant milestone in its expansion into APAC, announcing the signature of three Memorandums Of Understanding (MOU) with Sumitomo Aero-Systems Corporation, Itochu, and another prominent Japanese trading company. "It's a great honour for us to partner with these three esteemed Japanese trading houses across the Anduril portfolio of products." said David Goodrich OAM, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Anduril Asia Pacific. We are immediately pursuing opportunities to serve the Japanese Ministry of Defense with Anduril products that transform defense capability with advanced technology. Anduril's specialty is buildin cutting-edge defense technology quickly, and Japan is internationally renowned for innovation, quality, and attention to detail. These new partnerships represent the beginning of an exciting collaboration that will provide innumerable benefits for Japan, and Indo-Pacific security, more broadly. Anduril has a diverse range of autonomous products & capabilities that will work extremely well for Japan's unique requirements in realising its vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Sumitomo noted, "We are pleased to become a strong supporting role in the development of Anduril's business and intend to be a strong long-term partner. For both Anduril and Sumitomo, this is an opportunity to contribute enhancement of new capabilities for Japan Self Defense Force. In particular, command and control in joint operation is becoming extremely important, and we believe that Anduril's Lattice OS core capabilities such as JADC2 and hardware agnostic will contribute to the Japan Self Defense Force's future fighting capabilities." Anduril has a strong reputation developing defence solutions across all domains: land, air, sea, space and cyber. Products & capabilities include Counter UAS, Maritime Counter Intrusion, Ghost sUAS, ALTIUS, Dive-LD. Anduril brings a "software first" approach to defense technology with all systems leveraging Lattice, an open-architecture operating system that enables collaborative teaming of unmanned assets to accomplish mission objectives. For more information on Anduril and its products visit: https://www.anduril.com/ View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/anduril-industries-partners-with-three-leading-japanese-firms-to-help-transform-defense-capability-301838055.html SOURCE Anduril [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Tainan's Economic Development Bureau Spearheads Startup Delegation for InnoVEX 2023 in Taipei TAINAN, Taiwan, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Economic Development Bureau of Tainan City Government has partnered with WinWin Innovation & Incubation Base to lead a delegation of Tainan-based companies participating in InnoVEX 2023, scheduled from May 30 to June 2! For several consecutive years, InnoVEX has been co-located with COMPUTEX TAIPEI, a globally acclaimed exhibition that serves as a vibrant platform for startups and tech companies worldwide. This year, InnoVEX continues the tradition on the first floor of Hall 2 of Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, featuring a captivating lineup centered around four trending themes that have garnered significant attention: Smart Vehicles, Metaverse, Smart Networking Applications, and Sustainable Green Energy. The bureau is leading a team of ten dynamic startups, among them Shalun Smart Green Energy Science City and other promising ventures nurtured by WinWin. The bureau has established the Tainan Startups Pavilion as a dedicated space for the entrepreneurial companies to showcase their innovative products and services. The pavilion was meticulously crafted in adherence to ESG protocols, featuring an integration of recyclable materials and technology-rich lighting. The design encapsulates the unwavering commitment of Tainan's startups to actively promote and embrace green energy and sustainable technologies. The delegation of ten startups comprises an impressive lineup of innovative companies including: Shalun Smart Green Energy Science City , leading the way in sustainable energy solutions; , leading the way in sustainable energy solutions; Vistatec Inc ., dedicated to smart home systems and smart environmentally conscious spaces; ., dedicated to smart home systems and smart environmentally conscious spaces; Zwlifelab Co., Ltd. , creator of sustainable living labs and packaging-free products; , creator of sustainable living labs and packaging-free products; WILLPOWER Co., Ltd , a tech firm at the forefront of modern trends in smart charging posts; , a tech firm at the forefront of modern trends in smart charging posts; GathertechIntelligent Automation CO., Ltd. , developer of plug-and-play MR2 hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) technology; , developer of plug-and-play MR2 hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) technology; Road Ahead Integration Corp. , experienced professionals specializing in website development and production; , experienced professionals specializing in website development and production; Taiwan Vanguard Artificial Intelligence CO., Ltd , a smart manufacturer service provider, focus on Internet of Things (IoT), Cyber Physical Systems (CPS), and Big Data applications related to Industry 4.0. , a smart manufacturer service provider, focus on Internet of Things (IoT), Cyber Physical Systems (CPS), and Big Data applications related to Industry 4.0. Charco Science and Research Co., Ltd. , a leader among Taiwan's IoT firms that deploy technologies to enhance agricultural yields; , a leader among IoT firms that deploy technologies to enhance agricultural yields; PbMed Biotech Co., Ltd. , dedicated to the R&D of probiotics and health foods; and , dedicated to the R&D of probiotics and health foods; and Feng Sheng Shui Qi, a team of influential content creators with a focus on agricultural themes and farming life. InnoVEX 2023 is being held at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 2, spanning four eventful days, from May 30 to June 2. Visitors are welcome stop by the booths of Tainan's startups and get a close up look at each startup's remarkable contribution! Lin Jung-chuan, Director General of the Economic Development Bureau of Tainan City Government, elucidated the vision of Shalun Smart Green Energy Science City, emphasizing its dedication to cultivating a smart ecological city that prioritizes symbiotic development with nature, and to building communities with living systems that are people-oriented. In a collaborative effort, Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Science and Technology, Academia Sinica and Tainan Municipal Government are working hand in hand to establish a Shalun Smart Green Energy Science City in each of Tainan's districts. This ambitious initiative aims to transform the entire city into a benchmark of low-carbon smart living. With a strong emphasis on innovation, energy efficiency, energy storage and system integration, the project has been drawing the attention of both domestic and overseas green science and technology companies, many of whom are considering Tainan as a prime location for their facilities. Furthermore, the plan includes the conversion of select areas within the city into dedicated zones for testing and implementing of smart low-carbon technologies. The strategic move aims to create an environmentally responsible living environment conducive to the development and demonstration of green energy technologies. These designated areas will serve as comprehensive testing, verification and collaboration platforms for the R&D of innovative energy solutions. The initiative is expected to enhance the revenue and benefits of the green energy industry chain. The WinWin Innovation & Incubation Base serves as a collaborative hub, bringing together resources from industry, government, academia, and the research sector to create an enabling environment for aspiring entrepreneurs in Tainan. This multifaceted platform offers a range of valuable opportunities, including professional lectures, workshops, and practical courses, designed to equip Tainan residents with the necessary knowledge and skills to kick-start their own businesses. To further enhance the support system, WinWin has invited experts from diverse fields to join their network, providing consulting services tailored to the needs of startups. These seasoned professionals offer valuable guidance, assisting entrepreneurs in devising effective growth strategies and executing them with precision. For more information on events, courses and business counseling, please visit the website of WinWin Innovation & Incubation Base (https://www.winwin.org.tw/) and follow WinWin's Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/tainan.winwin/) to keep up with the latest news. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/tainans-economic-development-bureau-spearheads-startup-delegation-for-innovex-2023-in-taipei-301838115.html SOURCE Tainan City Government Economic Development Bureau [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Workforce Resistance to Change Emerges as Top Challenge for Successful Digital Transformation Half of business leaders (49%) reveal that the top challenge for digital transformation is employees' resistance to change, while half of employees are most concerned about their own digital proficiency (47%). Nearly all (95% of business leaders and 89% of employees) either strongly agree or somewhat agree that there is a need for their organisation's workforce to acquire basic technology skills to support digital transformation at the workplace. Yet, nearly a third of business leaders (27%) say that they have not enrolled employees in any training related to digital transformation in the past two years, while almost half of employees (43%) are unaware of the training programmes available in the market. SINGAPORE, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In this age of rapid digital evolution, companies are increasingly embracing digital transformation. However, half of business leaders (49%) reveal that the top challenge for digital transformation is employees' resistance to change, while half of employees (47%) are most concerned about their own lack of technology skills (47%). Nearly all (95% of business leaders and 89% of employees) either strongly agree or somewhat agree that there is a need for their organisation's workforce to acquire basic technology skills to support digital transformation at the workplace. Despite this, nearly a third of business leaders (27%) say that they have not enrolled their employees in any training related to digital transformation in the past two years, while almost half of employees (43%) are unaware of the training programmes available in the market. These are some of the key findings from the recently launched NTUC LearningHub's Digital Transformation Report 2023, which aims to explore the current landscape of digital transformation in Singapore including familiarity, readiness, adoption rate and challenges. Based on a survey of 150 business leaders and 300 full-time working professionals, the report also investigated the importance of earning and development (L&D) and identified priority skills needed to support digital transformation at the workplace. In addition to the lack of technology skills (47%) cyberattacks (43%), job security or being replaced by technology/ automation (42%), lack of adaptability (35%), and digital transformation being unable to improve their daily work (29%), are the top five concerns employees have about digital transformation. A third of employees also reveal that they do not use any technologies, such as cloud computing, big data, or Internet of Things (IoT) in their daily work (34%), and are unaware of digital transformation initiatives at the workplace (31%). Three in five respondents (87% business leaders, 74% employees) acknowledge that there is a gap in expertise on how to adopt digital transformation in their organisation. In fact, more than four in five (84%) business leaders agree that their organisation requires external help to analyse the workforce's skills gaps in order to implement digital transformation. Nonetheless, most employees agree (29% strongly agree, 66% somewhat agree) that it is important for their organisation to embark on digital transformation. A majority (88%) also report that they are comfortable with using technologies and tools needed to support digital transformation at their workplace. Commenting on the survey findings, Anthony Chew, Chief Core Skills Officer at NTUC LearningHub, says, "It is encouraging to see that both business leaders and employees recognise the importance and need for digital transformation. However, findings show that there is resistance on the ground. Knowing exactly what to transform and how to execute the digital transformation plans can be daunting to leaders. As for employees, one of the main reasons for workforce resistance to digital transformation is their concern over job security. Thus, it is about building a conducive environment for workplace learning to empower employees with new competencies, assure them of job security, and enable them to pivot into adjacent job roles within the organisation. More importantly, leaders at the workplace need to ensure that every employee is aligned with the organisation's business strategy and implementation plans towards digital transformation." To download the Digital Transformation Report 2023, please visit https://www.ntuclearninghub.com/digital-transformation-2023. To find out more about embarking on Digital Transformation, visit NTUC LearningHub's website at www.ntuclearninghub.com/digital-transformation. About NTUC LearningHub NTUC LearningHub is the leading Continuing Education and Training provider in Singapore which aims to transform the lifelong employability of working people. Since our corporatisation in 2004, we have been working with employers and individual learners to provide learning solutions in areas such as Cloud, Infocomm Technology, Healthcare, Employability & Literacy, Business Excellence, Workplace Safety & Health, Security, Human Resources and Foreign Worker Training. To date, NTUC LearningHub has helped over 26,000 organisations and achieved more than 2.6 million training places across more than 2,900 courses with a pool of about 900 certified trainers. As a Total Learning Solutions provider to organisations, we also forge partnerships to offer a wide range of relevant end-to-end training. Besides in-person training, we also offer instructor-led virtual live classes (VLCs) and asynchronous online learning. The NTUC LearningHub Learning eXperience Platform (LXP) a one-stop online learning mobile application offers timely, bite-sized and quality content for learners to upskill anytime and anywhere. Beyond learning, LXP also serves as a platform for jobs and skills development for both workers and companies. For more information, visit www.ntuclearninghub.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/workforce-resistance-to-change-emerges-as-top-challenge-for-successful-digital-transformation-301838163.html SOURCE NTUC LearningHub [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Share Trading App Moomoo and Sister Brand Surpass 20 Million Global Users SILICON VALLEY, Calif., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fintech-driven investment and wealth management platform, moomoo, and sister platform have collectively amassed more than 20 million global users. This milestone makes the AI-powered technology platform one of the most well-established for connecting like-minded investors and helping traders best manage their risk and uncover opportunities. Moomoo is an all-in-one platform where investors can access investment-related information, ranging from market sentiment derived from 20 million retail investors worldwide with different backgrounds, investment goals and strategies, to company news, investment research, market views, earnings and financial estimates. Advanced Technology and Security As a tech-empowered platform, moomoo is committed to innovating the investment landscape. To maintain data and information integrity, the moomoo platform uses a range of robust security features including two-factor authentication and encryption. Technical issues or downtime impacting online trading platforms can stop investors accessing their accounts or making trades. Investors can trade with moomoo rest assured its technology capabilities can support its community of more than 20 million people. Financial Inclusion The moo community also promotes financial and investment literacy by aggregating experts, educators and stakeholders. Today, more than 1,000 financial educators have joined the community, where they help to provide users of all levels with knowledge to achieve their financial goals and build up their confidence in making informed financial decisions. More than 900 listed companies, institutions and key opinion leaders have leveraged the platform to secure their digital presence through community activities, such as ebinars and earnings calls, which has enabled users to interact with industry experts and corporate executives in a real-time manner. The habits of moomoo users evolve with the market and users often share their personal trading experiences with other users within the moo community. Currently, the moo community's most used features are Profit/Loss and Positions and Trade Records functions. These two features provide a clear record of past transactions and portfolio performance, affording users insight into the market and their trading strategy. Moomoo users can easily share their trade records, positions and profit and loss to peers within the moo community. The moomoo team regularly organises discussions on hot topics, encouraging investors to share their thoughts and trade records with one another. The most recent discussion initiated by Team moomoo focused on how to plan trades for optimal outcome. In response to the post, many investors commented their P/L screenshots and long-term investing strategies. Additionally, more than 1,200 investors responded to a survey in which the moomoo team asked, 'Have you ever created a trading plan?', with 27% responding 'yes' and 73% responding 'no'. The survey is still open to new participants, here: https://www.moomoo.com/community/discussion/957875793 "Moomoo is committed to empowering Australian investors with the necessary tools, knowledge and access to a diverse range of investible products that can help them to navigate market cycles. We firmly believe in making financial literacy inclusive, creative and flexible, ensuring that every Australian can benefit from well-informed investment decisions," said moomoo Australia CEO, Toby Wong. "Our thriving community is driven by a supportive and informative environment, bolstered by a diverse investor base, cutting-edge technology, real transactions and collaborative partnerships. We are eagerly looking forward to welcoming more Australian investors into our community." About moomoo Moomoo is a next-generation one-stop digitalised financial services platform powered by Moomoo Technologies Inc., a fintech company based in Palo Alto, California. Moomoo integrates trading, market data, and social networking with advanced features, such as AI-powered analytics and anomaly detection functions. It supports free online account-opening and provides access to trade stocks and ETFs in multiple global markets such as the United States, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, and Australia. Moomoo and its brand affiliates also offer rich investor education content and an interactive online community with over 20 million users in more than 200 countries and regions globally. For more information, please visit moomoo's official website at www.moomoo.com or contact moomoo's public relation team via [email protected]. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/share-trading-app-moomoo-and-sister-brand-surpass-20-million-global-users-301838332.html SOURCE moomoo [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] ATFX participates in the "Irbid Investment and Economic Conference" in Jordan KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 8, 2023, the Irbid Investment and Economic Conference took place at Yarmouk University in Irbid, Jordan. ATFX participated as an important exhibitor, showcasing its brand strength around three main themes: "Financial Technology Intelligent Achievements, Digital Efficiency Empowering Services, and Technological Integration in Investments." The conference, centered around the theme of Economic & Investment Development Vision, attracted numerous local investors, institutions, and media participants. The Mayor of Irbid also attended the conference and delivered a speech. As a significant exhibitor, ATFX presented various operational frameworks, including retail and technological innovation. The team members showcased ATFX's technological innovation achievements, iterative service models, and diverse product offerings through live demonstratons and data visualization. During the event, participants, local government officials, and ATFX team members engaged in in-depth discussions and explorations on topics such as further innovation in financial technology, technology empowerment for investors, and the application of financial big data. Guided by the ATFX team, attendees experienced the speed and accuracy of ATFX's self-developed Adobe Sign electronic signature and facial recognition account opening processes, as well as other tools. The meticulous service attitude of the ATFX team also received high recognition from many participants at the event. ATFX ATFX is an award-winning currency pairs/CFD broker with a global presence offering customer support in over 15 languages. With over 300 tradable financial assets, including currency pairs, precious metals, energy, indices, and shares traded as CFDs, ATFX is regulated by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) in Cyprus, the Financial Services Commission (FSC) in Mauritius, and the Financial Services Authority (FSA) in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. (ATFX Website: https://www.atfx.com) View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/atfx-participates-in-the-irbid-investment-and-economic-conference-in-jordan-301838117.html SOURCE ATFX [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] The NUCA raised the built-up area (BUA) for integrated urban activities by 10 percent and also increased the BUA from 12 percent to 15 percent, depending on the terms of contracts between clients and investors, according to a statement realeased by the Ministry of Housing on Wednesday. The BUA for investment urban activities (mixed-use) and service projects were both raised by five percent, according to the statement. Minister of Housing Assem El-Gazzar, who is also the chairman of the Board of directors of the NUCA, explained that the updated incentives included a 20 percent extension of the implementation period for urban, investment, and services projects based on the terms specified in the allocation contracts, exclusively for ongoing projects. The NUCA is exploring the possibility of categorizing 80 percent of services, investments, or urban projects as fully completed, provided that all utilities and landscaping tasks are finished, El-Gazzar said. He emphasized the importance of investors following the building's height limits and constructing parking spaces within their projects. The benefits are valid for one year and require the prime minister's approval, El-Gazzar added. The Egyptian government has recently created a new portal that provides investors with a comprehensive range of resources, including monthly listings of investment opportunities, in new cities. Better investment atmosphere In mid-May, the restructured Supreme Council for Investment authorized 22 decisions aimed at promoting foreign direct investments (FDIs) and private investments in Egypt. These decisions involve numerous proposals for legislative amendments, which the government intends to present to Parliament for voting in the near future. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has recently announced that foreigners will be permitted to own property in Egypt without restrictions, subject to specific regulations. [May 31, 2023] AccuStem Announce Strategic Clinical and Operational Partnership LONDON and PHOENIX, May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AccuStem Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB: ACUT), a clinical stage diagnostics company dedicated to improving outcomes for patients with cancer, today announced a strategic plan to further develop and operationalize the StemPrintER assay. The 20-gene StemPrintER test stratifies patients with early stage breast cancer according to their recurrence risk. The test is intended to measure the stemness of tumors, or how much they behave like stem cells, which may indicate the likelihood of cancer progression and response to standard treatment modalities. Studies published in peer-reviewed journals have shown that StemPrintER is highly prognostic, with high stemness patients up to 4 times as likely to experience a distant recurrence as low stemness patients. AccuStem has signed an agreement with a leader in the genomic testing space that will support further clinical validation of the StemPrintER with the goal of operationalizing the assay in their laboratory. The partnership will leverage the similarity in platforms, technologies and human capital at both companies. We have demonstrated the strong prognostic utility of StemPrintER across multiple prospective clinical trials, said Wendy Blosser, Chief Executive Officer of AccuStem. For the next stage of development, we are excited to further establish StemPrintERs utility in informing surgical, radiological and other treatment decisions for ptients with breast cancer. About AccuStem AccuStem is a clinical stage diagnostics company dedicated to optimizing outcomes and quality of life for all patients with cancer. We plan to drive innovation in healthcare by offering proprietary molecular testing that addresses unmet clinical needs from cancer screening through treatment and monitoring. By interrogating novel disease pathways, such as tumor stemness, we believe our tools will help care teams better understand the biology of each patients cancer, leading to more informed decision making. For more information, please visit www.accustem.com . About Oncocyte Oncocyte is a precision diagnostics company with a mission to improve patient outcomes by providing personalized insights that inform critical decisions throughout the patient care journey. Through its proprietary tests, the Company aims to help save lives by accelerating the diagnosis of cancer and advancing cancer care. The Companys tests are designed to help provide clarity and confidence to physicians and their patients. DetermaIO is a gene expression test that assesses the tumor microenvironment to predict response to immunotherapies. The Companys pipeline of tests in development also includes DetermaTx, which will assess mutational status of a tumor, DetermaCNI, a blood-based monitoring test, DetermaMx, a long-term recurrence monitoring test, and VitaGraft, a blood-based solid organ transplantation monitoring test. In addition, Oncocytes pharmaceutical services provide companies that are developing new cancer treatments a full suite of molecular testing services to support the drug development process. DetermaIO, DetermaTx, DetermaCNI, DetermaMx and VitaGraft are trademarks of Oncocyte Corporation. Media Contact: Email: [email protected] Investor Contact: Email: [email protected] [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Canadian organizations expect quantum computing to be mainstream by the end of the decade but most need to step up investment to harness benefits and manage risk: KPMG Vast majority plan to invest but barely half are actively prepared for its arrival or have fully assessed risks TORONTO, May 31, 2023 /CNW/ - Six in 10 (59 per cent) Canadian organizations expect quantum computers capable of solving problems exponentially faster than ordinary computers - to become mainstream by 2030, finds new research from KPMG in Canada. Despite most believing the technology is coming, barely half (53 per cent) say they are preparing for its arrival or have fully assessed (55 per cent) the risks associated to their organizations. "Quantum computing could be the biggest revolution since the beginning of modern computer science," says Alexander Rau, a partner at KPMG in Canada's cybersecurity quantum risk practice. "The early adopters of quantum could unleash a massive data processing and analysis advantage over their competitors in the market." Quantum computers can analyze an almost infinite number of possible solutions to a problem to find the one that's the most viable, says Mr. Rau. "Quantum computing will improve and expedite artificial intelligence (AI), manufacturing processes, drug and chemical development, weather forecasting and financial modelling, among other things. For companies to realize the full potential and benefits of quantum computing, they need to start strategizing, planning and investing now." KPMG in Canada surveyed 250 large corporations 90 in Canada and 160 in the U.S. and found that while only 17 per cent of Canadian companies have made investments in quantum to date, as many as 85 per cent plan to do so within the next five years. When asked what types of problems they were looking to address with quantum computing, nearly a quarter (23 per cent) of the respondents are looking at it to improve business practices, such as manufacturing, logistics and distribution, 19 per cent to improve their security, and 18 per cent are to improve their AI capabilities. Key Survey Findings: 59 per cent of large Canadian corporations expect quantum computing to become mainstream by 2030 (vs. 78 per cent of U.S. companies surveyed), while 31 per cent are unsure of the timeline (vs. 16 per cent of U.S. companies) of large Canadian corporations expect quantum computing to become mainstream by 2030 (vs. of U.S. companies surveyed), while are unsure of the timeline (vs. of U.S. companies) 53 per cent are preparing for the arrival of quantum computing ( 80 per cent of U.S. companies) are preparing for the arrival of quantum computing ( of U.S. companies) 55 per cent have fully assessed the risks associated with quantum computing ( 73 per cent of U.S. companies) have fully assessed the risks associated with quantum computing ( of U.S. companies) 85 per cent have either already invested in quantum or plan to within the next five years: have either already invested in quantum or plan to within the next five years: 17 per cent have already invested (vs. 36 per cent of U.S. companies) have already invested (vs. of U.S. companies) 20 per cent plan to invest within the next six months or are currently evaluating their investment plans (vs. 34 per cent of U.S. respondents) plan to invest within the next six months or are currently evaluating their investment plans (vs. of U.S. respondents) Another 48 per cent plan to invest in quantum computing solutions within the next five years (vs. 25 per cent of U.S. respondents) plan to invest in quantum computing solutions within the next five years (vs. of U.S. respondents) 16 per cent are currently using quantum computing or quantum computing simulators ( 41 per cent of U.S. respondents) are currently using quantum computing or quantum computing simulators ( cent of U.S. respondents) 30 per cent are currently designing quantum computing strategies and are evaluating it in a few areas (26 per cent in the U.S.) Cracking Codes While Canadian organizations recognize the potential of quantum computing, they are also concerned about the risks, with 56 per cent saying they are "extremely concerned" about the potential of quantum computers to break through their data encryption and six in 10 (59 per cent) believing "it's only a matter of time" before cybercriminals start using quantum to decrypt the most-common cybersecurity protocols. Despite these concerns, only one quarter of organizations are prepared for the potential threats posed by quantum computing. Four in ten (39 per cent) say they are not prepared while 37 per cent are unsure. "Organizations need to understand that hackers and cybercriminals will be quick to use quantum to decipher encrypted data. If an organization isn't focused on developing its defences now, they will be at risk of mega-data breaches that will result in major losses, reputational damage and possibly lawsuits," says Rau. The KPMG survey finds that six in 10 (62 per cent) say they need to do a better job evaluating their company's security to ensure their data remains secure, while nearly half (48 per cent) fear their organization will wait until quantum technology has matured before it does anything about it. "Current encryption standards that would take a traditional computer many years to crack will take a quantum computer less than a day to decrypt," warns Feite Kraay, IBM Alliance Director, KPMG in Canada. "It's important that as companies invest in and adopt quantum computing solutions that they also simultaneously assess potential vulnerabilities and establish an action plan for their data protection infrastructure." Other key highlights: 39 per cent are not prepared for the potential threats posed by quantum computing, ( 61 per cent of U.S. companies) and another 37 per cent are undecided (vs. 16 per cent of U.S. companies) are not prepared for the potential threats posed by quantum computing, ( of U.S. companies) and another are undecided (vs. of U.S. companies) 56 per cent of Canadian companies are "extremely concerned" about the potential of quantum computers to break through their data encryption (vs. 67 per cent of U.S. companies) of Canadian companies are "extremely concerned" about the potential of quantum computers to break through their data encryption (vs. of U.S. companies) 59 per cent say "it's only a matter of time" before cybercriminals will use quantum computing to decrypt the most common cybersecurity protocols (vs. 73 per cent of U.S. companies) say "it's only a matter of time" before cybercriminals will use quantum computing to decrypt the most common cybersecurity protocols (vs. of U.S. companies) 57 per cent are "extremely concerned" that cybercriminals will use quantum computing to decrypt even the most-sophisticated encryptions (vs. 68 per cent of U.S. companies) are "extremely concerned" that cybercriminals will use quantum computing to decrypt even the most-sophisticated encryptions (vs. of U.S. companies) 62 per cent say they need to do a better job evaluating their company's security to ensure their data remains secure (vs. 81 per cent of U.S. companies) say they need to do a better job evaluating their company's security to ensure their data remains secure (vs. of U.S. companies) 48 per cent fear their organization will wait until quantum technology has matured before it does anything about it (vs. 64 per cent of U.S. companies) For more insights on quantum computing, visit KPMG's blog series by Alexander Rau and Feite Kraay: Canada: Into the qubitverse - KPMG Canada It gets worse before it gets better - KPMG Canada Everything ends online - KPMG Canada Breaking the law - KPMG Canada Slow and steady wins - KPMG Canada About the KPMG Canada poll KPMG in Canada researched the opinions of 250 companies in Canada and the U.S. about quantum computing and artificial intelligence (AI) between February 21-26, 2023, using Sago's Methodify online research platform. Of the 250 companies, 90 are based in Canada and 160 are in the U.S. The majority of respondents included Information Technology Directors, CEOs/business owners and Executive/Senior Vice Presidents. 55 per cent of companies are private and 45 per cent are publicly traded. The companies surveyed have annual gross revenue between $500 million and over $50 billion. About KPMG in Canada KPMG LLP, a limited liability partnership, is a full-service Audit, Tax and Advisory firm owned and operated by Canadians. For over 150 years, our professionals have provided consulting, accounting, auditing, and tax services to Canadians, inspiring confidence, empowering change, and driving innovation. Guided by our?core values?of Integrity, Excellence, Courage, Together, For Better, KPMG employs more than 10,000 people in over 40 locations across Canada, serving private- and public-sector clients. KPMG is?consistently?ranked one of Canada's top employers and one of the best places to work in the country. The firm is established under the laws of Ontario and is a member of KPMG's global organization of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International, a private English company limited by guarantee. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. For more information, see?kpmg.com/ca SOURCE KPMG LLP [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] KKR Acquires Industrial Warehouses Serving the Phoenix and Atlanta Markets KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced the acquisition of an industrial park in Phoenix, Arizona and an industrial warehouse in Atlanta, Georgia. The properties are both newly constructed Class A assets and were acquired in two separate transactions from two different sellers for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $250 million. The Arizona property is strategically located in Phoenix's Southwest Valley industrial submarket in close proximity to major transportation nodes including Interstate Highway 10 and Arizona State Route 101. The newly-delivered property consists of three high-quality Class A buildings totaling approximately 1.3 million square feet ("SF"). The Georgia property is located in Palmetto, in close proximity to the CSX Fairburn Intermodal Terminal and the Atlanta airport. The property is a newly constructed Class A warehouse totaling approximately 700,000 SF. "We are pleased to further expand our industrial footprint in these markets, which continue to benefit from attractive growth fundamentals including positive demographic trends and on-shoring manufacturing trends," said BenBrudney, a Director in the Real Estate group at KKR who oversees the firm's industrial investments in the United States. "We are seeing resilient demand for high quality, well located industrial product and we believe despite near-term supply headwinds, industrial supply-demand fundamentals will remain attractive in the medium to long term." The purchases were made through KKR Real Estate Partners Americas III, KKR's Americas opportunistic equity real estate fund. Across its funds in the U.S., KKR has committed or acquired approximately $7.5 billion of logistics assets in the industrial sector since 2018 and currently owns over 48 million SF of industrial real estate in major U.S. metropolitan areas. About KKR KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR's insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR's investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR's website at www.kkr.com and on Twitter @KKR_Co. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005223/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Lieut. Gen. H.R. McMaster and Rep. Ritchie Torres Join Forces to Expand Leadership of the Global Tech Security Commission Today, the Global Tech Security Commission (GTSC) announced the addition of Lieutenant General H.R. McMaster (U.S. Army ret.), the 26th U.S. National Security Advisor, and Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-NY), a distinguished member of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party, as Honorary Co-Chairs of the Global Tech Security Commission. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005394/en/ Gen. H.R. McMaster (left) Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) (right) (Photo: Business Wire) Lieut. Gen. McMaster and Representative Torres join an esteemed group of 11 other bipartisan lawmakers and national security experts as Honorary Co-Chairs in guiding the Commission's vital work of crafting the definitive Global Tech Security Strategy. The Commission comprises an international network of 15 country commissioners, 12 tech sector commissioners and more than 20 strategy commissioners, who each lead expert advisory councils. By integrating both offensive and defensive strategies and fostering the Global Tech Trust Network, the Commission aims to advance freedom through the accelerated adoption and innovation of trusted technology. "As the authoritarian regime of the Chinese Communist Party is becoming more aggressive and pursues differential advantages over the United States and our allies, it is vital that we develop and apply critical technologies to preserve peace through strength," said Gen. H.R. McMaster. "We must also protect technologies and intellectual property from state-based espionage. I look forward to serving as Honorary Co-Chair of the Global Tech Security Commission and supporting the commission's noble mission of protecting our nation and our allies and safeguarding freedom through trusted technology." The Global Tech Security Commission was launched in response to the Congressional call for a thorough, bipartisan tech security playbook that would rally and unify like-minded countries, leverage the innovation and resources of the private sector, and build a global network to develop, protect and adopt trusted technologies. "It is critical that the United States sends a powerful message of strength to the global community, especially in the face of global challenges posed by the Chinese Communist Party," said Congressman Ritchie Torres (D-NY). "I'm looking forward to joining the team at the Global Tech Security Commission to advise efforts to amplify this vital national security message. My work on the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party supports our nation's critical mission to deter violations of American sovereignty and transnational aggression by the CCP on our soil." Launched in May 2022, the Commission comes at a time when the United States is working to unite its transatlantic and Indo-Pacific allies and partners across a range of critical technology issues in the face of rising authoritarianism around the world. This international commission is led by Co-Chairs Keith Krach,former U.S. Under Secretary of State and former CEO of DocuSign, and Kersti Kaljulaid, former President of Estonia, and former Chair of the Three Seas Initiative. Its operations are supported by the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue and the Atlantic Council. "The participation of Gen. McMaster and Rep. Torres further enhances our mission to create a comprehensive blueprint for the U.S. and the free world to defend our precious freedom from technological authoritarianism," said Commission Co-Chair Keith Krach. "Both sides of the aisle recognize that the United States and the free world face ever-increasing technological threats from authoritarian regimes, such as Russia, China, Iran, and others. The bipartisan support for the Global Tech Security Commission conveys the urgency of its mission." In addition to Lieut. Gen. McMaster and Rep. Torres, the Honorary Co-Chairs of the Global Tech Security Commission include: Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Mark Warner (D-VA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Todd Young (R-IN), Bill Hagerty (R-TN); Representatives Lori Trahan (D-MA-3), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-8), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5), Michael McCaul (R-TX-10) and Mike Waltz (R-FL-6); and former Under Secretary of State Robert Hormats. "The Global Tech Security Commission includes some of the world's best minds on how critical and emerging technologies can advance freedom - or in the wrong hands, reverse it. H.R. McMaster and Congressman Torres add to this impressive roster of leadership and commitment to our shared mission," said Michelle Giuda, Director of the Krach Institute of Tech Diplomacy at Purdue. "Their expertise in foreign policy and national security provides the Commission with resources to develop a Global Tech Security Strategy that protects freedom through accelerating the adoption of trusted technology. Our Honorary Co-Chairs recognize the threat these technologies pose under the control of the CCP and their authoritarian allies." H.R. McMaster is a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University and Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Arizona State University. He has more than three decades of military and national security experience. From 2014-2017, McMaster was the director of the Army Capabilities Integration Center and the deputy commanding general, futures, of the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command. He commanded U.S. and multinational units in combat and served as advisor to the most senior commanders in Afghanistan and Iraq. He served as Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs from 2017 to 2018. A distinguished graduate of the United States Military Academy, he holds a Ph.D. in military history from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Congressman Ritchie Torres represents New York's 15th congressional district and currently serves as a member of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party led by Congressman Mike Gallagher (R-WI). Congressman Torres has been outspoken on the human rights violations committed by the CCP against the Uyghur Muslims in the Xinjiang region of China. About the Global Tech Security Commission The Global Tech Security Commission, consisting of international commissioners and multi-sector leaders, is committed to safeguarding freedom through the innovation and adoption of trusted technology. Its charter is to integrate comprehensive offensive and defensive strategies for the national security tech sectors into an overarching Global Tech Security Strategy. This mission aims to rally and unify like-minded countries, leverage private sector innovation by building a Global Tech Trust Network, and establish standards based on shared democratic principles. For the Commission's latest developments, visit globaltechsecurity.com. Please contact [email protected] or [email protected] for media inquiries about the Global Tech Security Commission. About the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue The nonpartisan Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue is the world's preeminent trusted technology accelerator. The Institute's mission is to advance freedom by driving the innovation and adoption of trusted technology through its leadership in a new category of Tech Diplomacy, integrating technology expertise, Silicon Valley strategies and foreign policy tools.? Follow the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Subscribe to the Institute's weekly newsletter Tech Diplomacy Now for the latest news at the intersection of high tech and foreign policy. About the Atlantic Council Driven by our mission of "shaping the global future together," the Atlantic Council is a nonpartisan organization that galvanizes U.S. leadership and engagement in the world, in partnership with allies and partners, to shape solutions to global challenges. The Atlantic Council's Global China Hub researches and devises allied solutions to challenges posed by China. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005394/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Forbright Bank Announces 2022 Sustainability Report Forbright Bank, a nationwide full-service bank helping accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy, today announced the release of its 2022 Sustainability Report. The report highlights the Bank's progress on environmental and social initiatives across its lending activities, operations, and community partnerships. It also demonstrates how Forbright continues to be a leader in sustainable finance. "At Forbright Bank, our approach to sustainability is closely aligned with our greater vision - to help build a brighter future," said John Delaney, Founder and Executive Chairman of Forbright Bank. "We're proud of our sustainable progress last year, and we will continue to finance a more sustainable economy for years to come." The 2022 Sustainability Report marks the second annual report from Forbright. The report introduces the Bank's core sustainability pillars: Driving progress through sustainable finance. At the end of 2022, nearly a third of Forbright's portfolio directly funded clean energy and sustainable oriented projects - including millions in residential solar loans, green building upgrades, affordable housing, and accessible healthcare loans. ?Overall, more than 30,000 metric tons of estimated annual greenhouse gas emissions were avoided thanks to renewable energy and energy efficiency projects Forbright financed. Integrating sustainable business practices. For the second year in a row, Forright maintained carbon neutrality in its operational footprint. In 2022, the Bank also increased its LEED certified square footage and earned certifications as a Fossil-Free banking institution and a Green Business. Supporting communities. In 2022, Forbright more than tripled its corporate giving, including making $560,000 in financial contributions to 60 local non-profit organizations. ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE REPORT: Sustainable Finance Forbright led a $100 million debt facility for two solar parks in Puerto Rico - helping the island work toward its goal of transitioning to 100% renewable energy. Forbright joined in financing a $115 million credit facility to Cyrq Energy, a geothermal energy leader, which brings power to its customers while emitting little to no greenhouse gases. Forbright led $80 million in financing to support Ares Management's acquisition of Atlas Crane, a leading crane rental company that services the wind industry. Employees and Operations In 2022, Forbright experienced a 36% growth in new employees. 41% of new hires self-identified as women 46% of new hires self-identified as racially or ethnically diverse In early 2022, Forbright launched several employee incentives to encourage sustainable behavior, such as installing solar panels, biking to work, conducting a home energy audit, and more. In 2022, employees spent more than 1,300 hours volunteering in their communities, an average of ~4 hours per employee. Read more in the Forbright Bank's 2022 Sustainability Report: https://www.forbrightbank.com/esg/ About Forbright Bank: Forbright Bank (www.forbrightbank.com), Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender, is a full-service bank taking action to decarbonize the economy. Headquartered in Chevy Chase, Maryland, Forbright is committed to accelerating the transition to a sustainable, clean energy economy by financing the companies, investors, and innovators driving that change. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005453/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Caleedo, receives the Facility Management Excellence Award for Startup at the 2023 BW Business World Facility Management Conference and Excellence Awards NEW DELHI and GURUGRAM, India, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Caleedo is thrilled to announce that they have won the prestigious Facility Management Excellence Award for Start-Up at the acclaimed BW Business World Facility Management Conference and Excellence Awards 2023. The grand ceremony took place on May 30th at Aloft, Aerocity, New Delhi. The BW Facility Management Conference and Excellence Awards 2023 serves as a platform to recognize and honour industry leaders and organizations that have exhibited exceptional achievements, innovation, and best practices in the field of facility management. This year, the event was a remarkable gathering of eminent business leaders, professionals, architects, and other experts from various sectors associated with the facilities management industry. The award ceremony was the highlight of the event, showcasing the exemplary work and dedication of individuals and organizations in the facility management sector. The eminent jury of the award consisted of Mr. B. Thiagarajan, Managing Director, Blue Star, Mr. Sameer Saxena, India Marsh & Mclennan Companies Inc; Mr. Harsh Wardhan, CEO, BW Security World and other eminent personalities. Mr. Parikshit Roy, the founder of Caleedo, has been one of the pioneers in IoT and digital applications in the facilities management industry with his dynamic leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. In his long journey of 37 years in buildings industry, he has a unique experience of having being associated with all facets of the building lifecycle like new built environment, Facilities Management, Operations & Maintenance and retrofits. He has published several whitepapers on sustainability, technology, future outlook of the buildings industry both in India and abroad and has worked in senior business leadership roles in leading organizations like Honeywell, Johnson Controls, and Compass Group in India and in international markets. Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Mr. Parikshit Roy on behalf of Caleedo said, "Receiving the Facility Management Excellence Award for Start-Up from BW BusinessWorld is an incredible honour. We are humbled to be recognized as a young company creating an impact in this large undigitized industry sector with a category defining application. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team at Caleedo. Together, we have strived to bring innovation at scale at affordable cost point. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to BW and the esteemed Jury for this award." About Caleedo Caleedo is a young B2B category defining Proptech and Workplace Tech SaaS solutions company revolutionizing the way workplace & built environments are managed by integrating ESG, sustainability, and smart workplaces. Caleedo is based in the NCR, and Bangalore, and has a point-of-presence in all metro cities in India. The company has recently forayed in the UAE and other GCC countries at the back of a few strategic partnership. Next year, the business plans to launch its solutions in selected APAC countries and Australia. Caleedo has recently tied up with IIT Roorkee to create a first-of-its-kind digital solution which will be a complete game changer in the future of sustainability, health and wellness in the built environments and workplaces. Caleedo has raised an initial seed round and plans to raise the next round of funding soon For investment, partnership & customer queries, please write to: Name: Vikas Saxena, Email ID: [email protected] Name: Priyanka Gulati, Email ID: [email protected] Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089298/Caleedo_Excellence_Award.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/caleedo-receives-the-facility-management-excellence-award-for-startup-at-the-2023-bw-business-world-facility-management-conference-and-excellence-awards-301838499.html [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] AITX's Subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Opens New Markets, Deploys First RIO Solar Powered Security System at Gulf Coast Jam RADs Initial Entry into the Large Outdoor Event and Venue Marketplace Detroit, Michigan, May 31, 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 deployed a RIO solar powered security trailer at Gulf Coast Jam music festival which is being held June 1-4, 2023 in Panama City Beach, Florida. This marks the Companys first deployment of one of its security solutions within the event management industry. This sector is dedicated to creating and managing events that take place in outdoor settings, such as festivals, concerts, fairs, carnivals, and other similar gatherings. There are an estimated 800 outdoor music festivals held in the U.S. each year. This is another milestone for RAD and AITX, said Steve Reinharz, CEO of AITX and RAD. These temporary and portable events are a great market opportunity for advanced solutions like RIO which has been designed to be quickly and easily deployed, perform its security and safety duties, then move on to the next location. One of RADs largest authorized dealers, DSI Security Services, is providing security services at the popular country music festival. DSI had ordered the RIO device from RAD to assist in their delivery of advanced security services during the 4-day event. "The success of Gulf Coast Jam's security lies not only in the remarkable capabilities of RAD's RIO but also in the tireless dedication and expertise of our security personnel," said J. Kent Calhoun, PSP, ESS Manager at DSI Security Services. "United by a shared commitment to excellence, our security team has seamlessly integrated RIO into their operation, leveraging its cutting-edge features to amplify their vigilance and provide a secure environment for all festivalgoers." The Company noted that the RIO device has been deployed at the main and VIP entrances. We are more than happy to support DSI with a RIO at Gulf Coast Jam, said Mark Folmer, CPP, PSP, FSyI, President of RAD. Power availability at outdoor events is often limited and scarce, presenting significant challenges for organizers and vendors. Plus, were excited to be able to showcase RIO to the nearly 80,000 attendees that are expected at this years festival. In recent years, the availability of solar-powered security devices such as RIO has emerged as a valuable solution to alleviate power scarcity at outdoor events. The utilization of solar panels and battery systems provides a sustainable and reliable source of energy, reducing the reliance on traditional generators and easing the strain on power resources. By harnessing the sun's energy, RIO offers an environmentally friendly alternative, ensuring a greener and more sustainable approach to securing outdoor concerts while mitigating the challenges posed by limited power availability. Gulf Coast Jam takes place in Panama City Beach, Florida from June 1-4, 2023. Listed by Billboard as one of The 10 Best Country Music Festivals, the Gulf Coast Jam Presented by Jim Beam is the largest music event in the southeast. Headliners include Kenn Chesney, HARDY, Miranda Lambert, and Kane Brown along with some 30 more artists playing during the festival. DSI delivers superior security solutions including armed and unarmed officers, mobile patrols, and electronic security solutions. Now in its sixth decade, the companys more than 5,400 security personnel provide their comprehensive security services through 28 offices spanning 33 states. Sitting atop RIO, RADs solar-powered, portable trailer, is ROSA, the recipient of multiple industry awards and wide acclaim and for its ability to autonomously detect and deter instances of trespassing and other property intrusions without the need for manned guarding assistance. 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 [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Lovevery Adds a Fifth Year to Its Early Learning Program with The Play Kits for Four-Year-Olds The continuation of Lovevery's subscription program builds executive function skills to strengthen resilience and set children up for success in and out of school. BOISE, Idaho, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lovevery, the global early childhood brand, today announced the expansion of its subscription early learning program with Play Kits for four-year-olds. Lovevery has applied their innovative approach to a fifth year of life, giving parents a holistic support system for their child as they build skills that lay a foundation of executive function. "Executive function skillswhich are not innate and must be learned and practicedgive children a greater capacity to bounce back from disappointment, handle academic subjects in school, and face life adversity." said Jessica Rolph, Lovevery Cofounder & CEO. "The resource that we've created for four-year-olds and their parents is unmatched as the essential skill-building program for this crucial year of early learning. The product line expansion also gives our existing customer base of more than 330,000 active subscribers the opportunity to grow with Lovevery for another year." After conducting several hundred hours of play studies with multiple iterations of prototypes, observing families in their homes, and consulting with child development experts from a range of disciplines, Lovevery has designed a line of four Play Kits each targeting an executive function life skill: flexible thinking ( The Connector ), critical thinking ( The Examiner ), frustration tolerance ( The Persister ), and planning ahead ( The Planner ). Each Play Kit includes playthings for four-year-olds that level up with a child to keep them engaged and build confidence, like the Discover & Inspect Microscope, Plan Ahead Week Board, Montessori Movable Alphabet Game, and the Plan & Prepare Clock. Each Play Kit also comes with a Montessoriinspired children's book to support social emotional learning, along with content for parents, including a Play Guide and a Guide to the Developmental Milestones of Age Four. "Our long term company vision is to meet the demand from families around the world, delivering child development products and content that serve an essential purpose for children and their parents," said Roderick Morris, Lovevery Cofounder & President. "This includes expanding into new years of life, expanding into more markets worldwidemost recently with our successful launch into Australiaand introducing new products and services that provide a holistic support system for families. Adding a fifth year to our Play Kits program is an important step towards reaching the fullest potential of our core mission." ABOUT LOVEVERY Lovevery 's early learning system supports families with stage-based play essentials for children and multi-channel content for parents. The company is best known for its award-winning subscription Play Kits program. Lovevery was launched in 2017 by Cofounders Jessica Rolph and Roderick Morris with the introduction of the company's first product, The Play Gym . Today, Lovevery is a Certified B Corporation, serving more than thirty markets worldwide. Lovevery's global headquarters is in Boise, Idaho USA, with multinational teams based in Amsterdam and Hong Kong. To learn more, visit: lovevery.com . Media Contact: [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lovevery-adds-a-fifth-year-to-its-early-learning-program-with-the-play-kits-for-four-year-olds-301833896.html SOURCE Lovevery [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Aura Introduces Fraud Protection Program for Auto Dealers and Their Customers New partnership with eLEND Solutions will help dealers address their billion-dollar fraud problem and comply with new FTC regulations BOSTON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Aura , the leader in intelligent safety, today introduced a new partnership with eLEND Solutions aimed at reducing and mitigating fraud for automotive dealerships and their customers. The partnership means auto dealers will have access to enhanced authentication tools during the purchase process, as well as post-purchase identity protection tools to aid in compliance with the new Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Safeguards Rule. eLEND Solutions, an automotive fintech company that works with thousands of auto dealers, is a specialist in identity verification and authentication technologies for auto dealerships. Data breaches, identity theft and financial fraud can wreak havoc on dealerships. According to an eLEND Solutions study , 79% of dealers experienced identity fraud-related vehicle loss at their dealership. Beyond the impact to the defrauded customer, a fraudulent sale can cost auto dealers more than $100,000 per instance. In 2021 alone, dealerships lost an estimated $7.7 billion to identity theft-related auto loans. And the problem will only get worse. The majority of dealers agree that, as more transaction processes move online, the large the problem of identity fraud will become. "Customers provide more information to a car dealer than they would to any other salesperson or industry, and sharing all that information makes them vulnerable to hackers and identity thieves," said Hari Ravichandran, founder and CEO of Aura. "While new services have certainly reduced the paperwork to purchase a car, dealers are now presented with a new challenge data management and security." With such high rates of fraud, the FTC has made updates to its Safeguards Rule which go into effect on June 9, 2023. The Safeguards Rule requires dealers to maintain safeguards for protecting the security of customer information, put processes in place to catch and report potential fraudulent transactions, and develop and implement a written identity theft prevention program for identifying, detecting, and responding to warning signs that indicate that a customer could be using stolen information to obtain a loan or lease at their dealership. "Fraud is causing increasing losses for auto dealers and, without being able to properly validate and authenticate ID documents and buyer identities, dealerships remain particularly vulnerable," said Pete MacInnis, CEO of eLEND Solutions. "Our mission with our partnership with Aura, which includes forensic authentication of driver's licenses, is to have a positive impact on our industry by making it easy for auto dealers to combat this systemic fraud." The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) estimates that compliance with the Safeguards Rule will cost dealers approximately $277,000 per year while the cost of non-compliance far outweighs that sum. Through this protection program, Aura aims to keep dealerships and their customers safe from identity theft and financial fraud. Endorsed by the Kentucky and Minnesota Automobile Dealers Associations, Aura's protection program features three core offerings: Aura Reseller Program: Dealers can proactively provide customers with Aura's #1 rated identity and fraud protection service, which offsets the growing cost of Red Flags Rule compliance. Dealers have the option to offer one free year of Aura protection to customers as part of their commitment to protecting buyers from theft. At the end of one year, customers will have the opportunity to extend their protection and wrap the fees into their auto loan payment for less than $5.00 per month. ID Scanning Technology: In partnership with eLEND Solutions, the protection package offers driver's license scanning and authentication technology to help dealerships prevent fraudulent car purchases. Beyond identity verification, this scanning service helps dealers identify new opportunities, ease the buying experience and ultimately sell more cars. Breach Response Readiness: Leveraging Aura's experience and proven leadership in providing breach support saves dealers time in development of their mandatory breach response planning. For more information on partnering with Aura and eLEND Solutions, contact [email protected] . About Aura Aura, the leader in intelligent safety, provides all-in-one digital protection for consumers. We understand that the online safety needs of each individual are unique and require a personalized solution. By bringing together security, privacy and parental controls on an intelligent platform, Aura makes adaptive and proactive digital safety accessible to everyone. Visit www.aura.com . About eLEND Solutions eLEND Solutions (DealerCentric rebranded) is an automotive fintech company focused on deal generation solutions that power transactional digital buying experiences for the retail automotive industry. The platform specializes in digital credit, identity, and finance solutions for remote and in-store shoppers, designed to accelerate conversions of digital end-to-end purchase experiences concluding with fundable, transactable deal structures. For more information, please visit https://www.elendsolutions.com/finance-solutions/ View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aura-introduces-fraud-protection-program-for-auto-dealers-and-their-customers-301838557.html SOURCE Aura [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Skyfactor Announces Winners for 2023 Assessment & Impact Awards in Housing and Residence Life Students that live on campus are more likely to engage in academic activities relative to their off-campus peers regardless of important factors like race, parental education, and finances. That's according to the latest research from The Association of College and University Housing Officers - International. While student success is more likely to occur because of residence life, there are steps that some colleges take to better support students' sense of belonging and enrich their academic experience. To recognize the impact that data-driven programs have in supporting on-campus living, Skyfactor Benchworks, a Macmillan Learning company, has named the 2023 Assessment and Impact Awards for Housing and Residence Life. "By harnessing the power of data, colleges gain invaluable insights into students' needs, preferences, and challenges, which helps to create tailored experiences that truly make a difference for students -- especially those in their first year of college. For the fifth year, we're proud to recognize colleges that are using surveys and data to create a transformative experience for students that helps them feel supported and engaged in campus life," said Steven Ray, Vice President of Enterprise Solutions for Macmillan Learning. The return of students to campus following the pandemic has led many of this year's nominees to redesign their programming and update their facilities to build even stronger student communities. Proximity to other students can help create connections between students as well as between students and staff that help to build the foundation for future interactions, create more inclusive experiences and enhance learning outcomes. Research from Skyfactor announced in May 2023 found that higher levels of program participation in residence life were associated with greater perceived gains in six areas of skill needed in a community setting, particularly skills related to interacting with diverse others as well as respecting and trusting others and feeling accepted by them. The results come from a national dataset constructed from the 2021-2022 administration of Skyfactor's ACUHO-I/Benchworks Resident Assessment of over 150,000 college students from nearly 200 colleges and universities in the United States. The 2023 Asessment & Impact Awards in Housing and Residence Life winners are: Lafayette College was recognized for significant improvement in survey scores related to student staff and creating a sense of community . Using student feedback, Lafayette's Resident Life department has implemented new programs to increase student connections and foster a student-forward housing experience through personal interactions. was recognized for . Using student feedback, Lafayette's Resident Life department has implemented new programs to increase student connections and foster a student-forward housing experience through personal interactions. University of Akron was recognized for significant improvement in survey scores related to diverse interactions . Using student feedback, the University Housing department has helped ensure that inclusion is an everyday experience. To do this they bolstered resident assistance (RA) training and created diverse activities that matter to its students. was recognized for . Using student feedback, the University Housing department has helped ensure that inclusion is an everyday experience. To do this they bolstered resident assistance (RA) training and created diverse activities that matter to its students. The University of Texas at Dallas was recognized for high performance on survey scores related to satisfaction with facilities. With its goal to better serve student needs, UTD's Housing department increased its reactivity to students' needs, upgraded communal spaces, and expedited repairs to reduce inconvenience to residents. The 2023 winners were selected this spring through the company's data-driven analysis of nominees and the 17 finalists. Macmillan Learning's Analytics & Research Team analyzed multiple years of data from the ACUHO-I/Benchworks Resident Assessment to identify programs with both consistently high scores and those that have seen significant improvements in their survey scores. The team then interviewed staff from these campuses to learn about the efforts and initiatives in place at each program. Each finalist was given a blind review by an external team of experts to determine final scores. The Assessment and Impact Awards for Residence Life recognizes colleges that demonstrate intentionality in using insights from data to improve their residence life programs. Skyfactor Benchworks recognized three housing programs in 2022, ten housing programs during the pandemic (seven in 2021, three in 2020) as well as four housing programs in 2019. Skyfactor also has an Assessment and Impact Award for nursing education programs; winners will be announced this summer. The self-nominations for next year's housing and residence life awards will launch in early 2024. About Skyfactor Benchworks Benchworks provides research-based program assessments and benchmarking for a variety of Student Affairs programs, as well as Business Education, Engineering, Nursing, Teacher Education. With robust analytics Benchworks empowers programs to identify areas of improvement for maximum impact on program success. Benchworks assessments are rooted in research and mapped to accreditation and professional standards. About Macmillan Learning Macmillan Learning is a privately-held, family-owned company that inspires what's possible for every learner. We envision a world in which every learner succeeds. Through our content, tools and services, we aim to make that a reality. To learn more, please visit macmillanlearning.com or join our Macmillan Community. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005276/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Several heirs to Korean business fortunes and other elite figures are among 17 people indicted for using and distributing marijuana, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office said Thursday. The indictments were the result of an investigation following the arrest of a 39-year-old dealer who was nabbed last September. When prosecutors searched his home, they turned up text messages, money transfer records and other evidence implicating the privileged young people. Nine people were already indicted last year, including the Namyang Dairy founder's grandson, the managing director of a former Hyosung Group affiliate, and an heir to JB Financial Holding Company. This week saw the indictment of a grandson of the Kiswire founder, a son of a former National Police Agency commissioner, and the head of a talent management agency. [May 31, 2023] IntelePeer Appoints Sergey Galchenko to Chief Technology Officer IntelePeer, a leading Communications Automation Platform provider, announces the appointment of Sergey Galchenko to Chief Technology Officer. A proven leader with several patents, a wealth of technical expertise and deep knowledge of software product design and development, Mr. Galchenko will take the helm of IntelePeer's AI-powered communications automation platform (CAP) and will spearhead the company's integration of AI into its customer solutions. "Sergey is a visionary whose talents and aptitude for leadership will be indispensable as IntelePeer continues to navigate an ever-changing technical landscape," says IntelePeer President and CEO Frank Fawzi. "His experience architecting and implementing multiple technology-as-a-service offerings and innovative AI and ML platforms will be critical to our ongoing strategy. Additionally, Sergey's ability to precisely articulate objectives and tasks while inspiring individuals to rally behind common goals will provide clear strategic direction for our future AI-centered initiatives." In addition to strengthening IntelePeer's position as a dominant player in the communications automation category, Galchenko will similarly support customers via AI-enabled soluions that drive higher productivity, lower costs, and improve customer experience. In particular, Galchenko will direct the IntelePeer AI team as it infuses automation and generative AI features into all of IntelePeer's products and applications to enhance their current capabilities, bringing greater value to customers. Before joining IntelePeer, Galchenko held executive-level technology positions with organizations ranging from startups to multi-billion-dollar companies. At INTURN, he served as Chief Technology Officer and VP of Engineering, overseeing the implementation of new technology strategies and solutions. He was also Chief Technology Officer for Star2Star, where his responsibilities involved strategic technical leadership, and managing its applications portfolio. Likewise, Galchenko held the role of Technology Director at Jo-Ann Stores and was previously Chief Technology Officer at BroadVox. Galchenko holds an MBA from Myers University, Cleveland, OH, and a Master's in Computer Science from Don State Technical University, Rostov-on-Don, Russian Federation. "It is an exciting time to join IntelePeer, with the company recently being named a leader in the communications automation platform marketplace," says Galchenko. "By drawing on my history working with modern design approaches, executing technology strategies, and orchestrating transformational projects, I'll help support and guide the development of IntelePeer's communication automation platform and generative AI offerings." For information about IntelePeer products and services, visit: www.intelepeer.com. About IntelePeer IntelePeer simplifies communication automation for businesses and contact centers while lowering costs, enriching the customer experience and accelerating ROI. Its AI-powered Communications Automation Platform works seamlessly within existing business software and infrastructure, enabling brands to quickly and effortlessly automate complex processes. Built for business users, IntelePeer's vendor-neutral platform and low- and no-code solutions leverage AI and analytics, empowering businesses to proactively resolve potential pain points and maintain context across channels and throughout the orchestrated customer journey. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005156/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Omni Logistics Wins Toyota's 2023 "Service Over the Road" Supplier of the Year Omni Logistics, a technology-driven provider of global multimodal logistics solutions and specialized supply chain services, is honored to announce it has been recognized as Toyota's 2023 "Service Over the Road" Supplier of the Year. Omni Logistics has served as a trusted partner for Toyota providing logistics solutions for transporting automotive parts. The recognition from Toyota as one of its top suppliers further demonstrates Omni Logistics' strong performance, reliability, communication, and safety practices for a global automotive leader. One of the biggest hurdles logistics companies face when providing "over the road" transportation services is on-time pick-ups. Omni Logistics' OTR drivers and operations team members have built trusted relationships with the Toyota teams and partnered with them to improve performance with on-time pick-ups and deliveries. Toyota values Omni Logistics for their remarkable flexibility as they seamlessly adapt to any situation, effortlessly accommodating last-minute changes such as picing up additional loads or efficiently canceling scheduled loads on the day of. As a technology forward solutions provider, Omni Logistics works diligently to create logistics efficiencies for its customers. The partnership with Toyota has resulted in significant benefits for their operations. "Being recognized as a top supplier for Toyota, a global automotive leader, is truly a great honor," said JJ Schickel, CEO of Omni Logistics. "Putting customers first and implementing bespoke solutions that address their challenges is at the heart of our strategy. This recognition is another testament to our commitment to fostering strong partnerships and ensuring customer success." Omni Logistics is one of Toyota's select business partners to be honored in 2023 across all departments. About Omni Logistics Omni Logistics is a privately-owned, multibillion-dollar global logistics solutions provider with over 4,500 employees in more than 100 locations serving the complex supply chain needs of nearly 7,000 customers. In addition to providing traditional freight services, Omni Logistics goes beyond global freight transport to provide customized, end-to-end supply chain solutions based on specific customer challenges and the unique characteristics of a customer's freight. Leveraging technology, proprietary data, analytics, and automation, Omni Logistics removes supply chain inefficiencies and provides cost-effective solutions for customers. As a signatory of The Climate Pledge, Omni Logistics is committed to creating supply chain visibility and eliminating waste in order to provide more sustainable transportation solutions. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005369/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] NMB Bank Tanzania and UnionPay International promote mobile commerce through QR Code implementation in the East African Region DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- UnionPay International and NMB Bank Tanzania jointly announced, the UnionPay QR code payment is live at 30,000 merchants across Tanzania, enabling small and medium businesses to transact over mobile commerce across many sectors. This partnership comes at a time when the world is easing towards digital payment since Covid-19, resulting in an increase in the digital user base and shifted consumer purchasing behaviour. UnionPay International has introduced the QR code payment solution to serve the world's largest cardholder base. This solution is safe, easy, and frictionless and can be used at nearly 31 million merchants in 45 countries and regions around the world. The UnionPay network is expanding quickly to meet the needs of merchants and users, covering a wide range of payment scenarios such as retail, food and beverage, campus, transportation, and healthcare. McKinsey & Company research suggests that there has been an 80/20 rise in digital payments since Covid-19, resulting in a 20% increase in the digital user base. The global QR Code Labels market is projected to reach $1268.1 million by 2026, from $916.7 million in 2020. "NMB Bank Tanzania is committed to leveraging innovative solutions to enhance financial inclusion in Tanzania. Our partnership with UnionPay International to introduce QR code payment to the world's largest cardholder base is a testament of or commitment to providing safe, convenient, and inclusive payment solutions to our customers. We are proud to be at the forefront of digital payment adoption in the East African region and look forward to continuing driving financial inclusion through technology," said Filbert Mponzi, Chief Retail Banking at NMB Bank Tanzania. Awarded the "Best Bank in Tanzania" for 9 years in a row, NMB is one of the largest commercial banks incorporated in the United Republic of Tanzania. Through its 3 main business divisions: Retail, Wholesale, and Treasury, NMB provides a suite of financial services and products to retail customers, farmers, SMEs, Corporates, Institutions and the Government. NMB has an extensive network of branches and ATMs in the major towns and cities of Tanzania. "NMB is a significant partner of ours, to extend our business in the East Africa region, one of the fastest-growing economic zone in Africa", said Mr. Asad Burney, Head of UnionPay International Africa Region, "We are excited to participate in the mobile commerce space, enabling digital payments in this region". With over 190 million UnionPay cards issued in 79 countries and regions outside mainland China, UnionPay has expanded its global acceptance network to 181 countries and regions in recent years. At present, UnionPay cards are widely accepted in Africa across all sectors, effectively meeting the diverse purchasing needs of UnionPay cardholders visiting and living on the continent. UnionPay cards are issued in 15 African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Ghana, Nigeria, Zambia, South Africa, Eswatini, Gambia, Seychelles, Madagascar and Mauritius. The Nilson Report (Issue 1154) shows that UnionPay ranks first among all card schemes in card issuance and transaction volume worldwide. UnionPay International has launched various innovative payment products in Africa in response to the worldwide digital transformation and financial inclusion. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/nmb-bank-tanzania-and-unionpay-international-promote-mobile-commerce-through-qr-code-implementation-in-the-east-african-region-301838667.html SOURCE UnionPay International [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Calling for Change: Time to Address the Overlooked Problem of Data Capture BOSTON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Personal mobile devices and digital tools for desk-based workers provide access to useful, real-time data, but frontline workers in businesses worldwide are suffering from a data experience gap, according to Scandit , the leader in smart data capture . In Capture Value, Not Data , a resource launched today by Scandit, the company lays out how most businesses are struggling to accurately capture real-time data from tangible assets, leading to inefficiencies, a negative customer and employee experience, and poor decision making. Instead, Scandit believes that companies should embrace smart data capture to collect, analyze and act on information from barcodes, text, IDs and objects, providing rich, actionable insights at the point of data collection and enabling real-time decision making, employee and customer engagement and workflow automation at scale. "The way we capture data has not modernized or kept pace with other elements of data management, resulting in crazy scenarios where store associates hide in stock rooms to avoid engaging with customers, or warehouse workers repeatedly pick and scan items thousands of times a day. It doesn't have to be like this; data capture can be smarter," said Christian Floerkemeier, CTO and co-founder of Scandit. "Today's mobile computing and machine learning technology means opportunities are now available to unlock the next level of business efficiency and radically overhaul the customer and employee experience." In an IDC Infobrief[1] sponsored by Scandit, IDC states that organizations which are effective in building data intelligence experience materially different business outcomes, with improvements in employee retention, customer experience and up to a 32% increase in revenue growth. "The ability to accurately capture real-time product information is a transformative force for both customers and organizations. Supply chain applications will greatly benefit from enhanced insights intotrailer, cube, and weight utilization rates, leading to optimized trailer loads and improved delivery efficiency. Smart data capture is a technology whose time has arrived," said Jeff Roster, Expert Advisor at Third Eye Advisory. Heavy Reliance on Manual Processes Holding Businesses Back Manual and pen-and-paper data capture, such as ticking off deliveries on a list or counting boxes, still play a large role in all businesses where physical assets must be quantified. Even businesses we think of as 'digital' still have a significant physical footprint. For example, from 2010 to 2019, Meta invested more than $16 billion in data center construction and operations in the United States alone. Tools for frontline workers and customers are often slow to use and do not deliver instant, actionable insights. This means that data returned to the business in order to make decisions is inaccurate, incomplete and outdated. For example, if errors in retail inventory are corrected, companies can benefit from a 4%-8% increase in sales . "Store associates are a retailer's most significant ongoing investment. By empowering them with smarter data, we can improve employee experience, productivity and efficiency in a single stroke," said Andrea Comi, Digital and Technology DTC Global Director, VF Corporation . Calling for Change In Capture Value, Not Data , Scandit calls for change, encouraging businesses to embrace smart data capture and improve business outcomes. Smart data capture delivers exponential productivity gains, richer business insights, increased employee satisfaction, enhanced customer loyalty, and ultimately profit and revenue growth. To help enterprises benefit, Scandit has developed nine principles of a successful smart data capture strategy , and produced guidance for businesses on how they can follow a four-step strategic roadmap to implement changes and address the data experience gap. Resources Capture Value, Not Data Video - Capture Value, Not Data Why We Need to Capture Value, Not Just Data - Blog from Samuel Mueller, Scandit CEO and co-founder What is GS1 Sunrise 2027? And Why It's Part of a Smart Data Capture Revolution - Blog What is Smart Data Capture About Scandit We're the leader in smart data capture giving superpowers to workers, customers and businesses with unmatched speed, accuracy and intelligence. The Scandit Smart Data Capture platform enables smart devices, such as smartphones, drones, digital eyewear and robots to capture data from barcodes, text, IDs and objects to automate and provide insights for end-to-end processes. Scandit accurately scans data up to three times faster than dedicated scanners in challenging light or at angles, on damaged labels, across multiple codes, with any smart device. Scandit enables innovation that delivers significant cost savings, increases employee retention and customer loyalty. We partner with customers at every step with trials, solution design, integration and customer success support included. Visit scandit.com to learn why market leaders across retail, transport and logistics, healthcare and manufacturing like Instacart, Levi Strauss, Sephora, Hertz and FedEx trust us. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089554/Warehouse_workers.jpg [1] IDC InfoBrief, sponsored by Scandit, Smart Data Capture: A Technology Strategy to Scale Data Intelligence, doc #US49858322, January 2023 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/calling-for-change-time-to-address-the-overlooked-problem-of-data-capture-301838679.html SOURCE Scandit [May 31, 2023] Woolpert Contracted by NOAA for Hydrographic Survey, Bathymetric Data in Nome, Alaska The $7M contract supports everything from commercial fishing and shipping to coastal resilience and nautical charting needs at this vital U.S. transit route. NOME, Alaska, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has signed Woolpert to a $7 million contract to perform hydrographic surveying and collect bathymetric data in and around Nome, Alaska. These data will support commercial fishing, shipping channels, coastal resilience, scientific research, and Seabed 2030, a collaborative project that aims to map the world's ocean floor by 2030. This project will update National Ocean Service nautical charting products and services and will support Seabed 2030. Woolpert will collect data over 1,874 square nautical miles in Northern Norton Sound, which stretches from Golovin Bay through Nome to Cape Woolley on the eastern edge of Alaska. Nome is adjacent to the Bering Strait and central to America's marine presence in the Arctic. The region serves as a major transit route for shipping traffic to the Port of Nome, which has supplied food, construction materials, equipment, and other goods for over 60 Alaskan communities for more than a century. Regional hydrographic data was most recently collected in the 1930s. This project will update National Ocean Service nautical charting products and services and will support the Seabed 2030 Project. This collaborative effort between the Nippon Foundation and the General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans aims to integrate and share all available bathymetric data to produce a definitive map of the world's ocean floor by 2030. Woolpert has collected topographic, bathymetric, and hydrographic data in and around Alaska for decades and has an office in Wasilla. Multiple hydrographic survey vessels will be used to collect these data, including two large live-aboard ships and two Wave Adaptive Modular Vessels (WAM-Vs). The WAM-Vs will be used primarily in a force multiplication strategy in coordination with the larger vessels performing this work. A combination of the right tools and experience are critical for this contract. "Hydrographic surveying in Alaska can be logistically challenging, and moving equipment requires a range of vehicles and aircraft," Woolpert Certified Hydrographer Dave Neff said. "Local knowledge and relationships are highly beneficial for any project in Alaska. Our work over the years both as Woolpert and eTrac, a Woolpert Company, has given us the scope and confidence to cost-effectively execute, while managing inherent regional risk. We're at home in Alaska, and we are excited to provide these needed data for Nome and all who rely on the region for goods and services." This project will get underway in June and is expected to conclude in September. About Woolpert Woolpert is the premier architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG), and strategic consulting firm, with a vision to become one of the best companies in the world. We innovate within and across markets to effectively serve public, private, and government clients worldwide. Woolpert is a Global Top 100 Geospatial Company, a Top 100 ENR Global Design firm, earned six straight Great Place to Work certifications, and actively nurtures a culture of growth, inclusion, diversity, and respect. Founded in 1911 in Dayton, Ohio, Woolpert has been America's fastest-growing AEG firm since 2015. Woolpert has over 2,000 employees and more than 60 offices on five continents. For more, visit woolpert.com. Media Contact: Jill Kelley, [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/woolpert-contracted-by-noaa-for-hydrographic-survey-bathymetric-data-in-nome-alaska-301838564.html SOURCE Woolpert [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Ramirez Asset Management Increases Support of the Next Generation With Allocation From Microsoft Ramirez Asset Management ("RAM"), a New York-based, minority-owned investment manager, is pleased to announce Microsoft Corporation ("Microsoft") as the most recent addition to its growing client base. The mandate from Microsoft also enables RAM to expand its robust internship program. RAM will manage a custom, multi-sector short duration portfolio on behalf of Microsoft. As fixed income specialists, RAM will leverage its experience and asset management acumen to add value and diversification to Microsoft's internal treasury team. "We are very appreciative of our long-standing investment banking relationship with Microsoft and grateful for the opportunity to expand this relationship to include our asset management business," said Sam Ramirez Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of RAM. RAM is deeply committed to being an industry leader in supporting and developing the next generation of professionals from underrepresented communities. The partnership with Microsoft, which shares this mission, directly allows RAM to recruit an additional intern for its well-established internship program. "We are excited to have an intern join our extremely talented quantitative team as a dedicated compuer and data systems intern as part of the Microsoft mandate," said Ramirez Jr. "We believe our diverse talent and commitment to the communities from which we come is an essential part of our current and future success. We are delighted that Microsoft shares this commitment and look forward to collaborating on bringing the next generation of talent into the workforce in a powerful way." RAM's quantitative team is focused on maximizing internal data, building internal tools and refining various firm-wide risk controls. As part of the quantitative team, the intern will be directly involved with the portfolio and interactions with the Microsoft treasury team. "We're pleased to support RAM with an allocation that will allow them to expand their internship program and help develop the next generation of professionals from underrepresented communities," said Anita Mehra, Corporate Vice President of Global Treasury & Financial Services at Microsoft. "At Microsoft, we're committed to leveraging our resources to help accelerate diversity and inclusion across our ecosystem and we are proud to support RAM's efforts." Over the last three years, RAM has supported eight interns, all of whom have been minorities, women or veterans. Several have taken on full-time roles at the firm following their internship. RAM draws on its relationship with the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, one of the nation's leading nonprofit organizations supporting higher education, when seeking next generation talent for its internship program. About Ramirez Asset Management, Inc. Founded in 2002 and headquartered in New York City, registered investment adviser Ramirez Asset Management, Inc. (RAM) is affiliated with Samuel A. Ramirez & Co. Inc., one of the oldest and largest Hispanic-owned investment banks in the U.S. and a leader in the fixed income market. RAM is focused on fixed income asset management for a diverse institutional client base, including public and private defined benefit and defined contribution plans, Taft Hartley plans, corporations, state and local governments, as well as foundations and endowments. The firm's main investment strategies include Core, Core Plus, Intermediate, Stable Value, Long Duration/LDI, and Short Duration. For more information, please visit www.ramirezam.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005725/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market Report 2023: Increasing Incidence of Adverse Drug Reactions Drives Growth DUBLIN, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market Report and Forecast 2023-2031" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The value of the global pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market was USD 7.80 billion in 2022, driven by the increasing incidence of adverse drug reactions across the globe. The market value is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 8.98% during the forecast period of 2023-2031 to reach a value of USD 16.90 billion by 2031. Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software: Introduction Pharmacovigilance and drug safety software is a computer-based system used by pharmaceutical companies to monitor and analyse the safety of drugs in the market. The software collects, analyses, and evaluates data related to the adverse effects of drugs, identifies potential risks, and suggests measures to manage and mitigate those risks. It helps in ensuring the safety and efficacy of drugs, improving patient outcomes, and complying with regulatory requirements. The software can also generate reports and alerts based on the analysed data, enabling healthcare professionals and regulators to take informed decisions about the use of drugs. Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software: Application and Uses Pharmacovigilance and drug safety software are used in the healthcare industry to monitor and track the safety of drugs and medications. The software is designed to help healthcare professionals and regulatory agencies identify and evaluate adverse events, including side effects, drug interactions, and other safety issues related to medications. The application and uses of pharmacovigilance and drug safety software include: Adverse Event Reporting: Pharmacovigilance software is used to track adverse events and report them to regulatory agencies as required Signal Detection: The software can be used to identify new signals or trends in safety data, such as increased rates of adverse events for a particular drug Risk Management: Pharmacovigilance software is used to manage and mitigate risks associated with drugs and medications Clinical Trial Safety Monitoring: The software can be used to monitor safety data during clinical trials and help ensure that trials are conducted safely and ethically Post-Marketing Surveillance: Pharmacovigilance software is used to monitor safety data after a drug is approved and on the market Regulatory Compliance: The software is designed to help healthcare organizations comply with regulatory requirements related to drug safety and pharmacovigilance Overall, pharmacovigilance and drug safety software are critical tools for ensuring the safety and efficacy of drugs and medications, and are used throughout the healthcare industry to improve patient safety and outcomes. Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market Segmentations Market Breakup by Functionality Adverse Event Reporting Software Drug Safety Audits Software Issue Tracking Software Fully Integrated Software Market Brakup by Mode of Delivery On-Premises Delivery On-Demand/Cloud Based (SaaS) Delivery Market Breakup by End User Pharma and Biotech Companies Contract Research Organizations (CROs) Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Firms Others Market Breakup by Region North America United States of America Canada Europe United Kingdom Germany France Italy Others Asia Pacific China Japan India ASEAN Australia Others Latin America Brazil Argentina Mexico Others Middle East and Africa Saudi Arabia United Arab Emirates Nigeria South Africa Others Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market Scenario The market is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period owing to the increasing incidence of adverse drug reactions and the growing emphasis on patient safety and risk management are some of the key factors driving the growth of this market. The market is also being driven by the increasing demand for pharmacovigilance and drug safety software solutions among pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, contract research organizations, and regulatory authorities. In addition, the increasing use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in pharmacovigilance and drug safety software is expected to fuel the growth of this market. Based on the mode of delivery, the cloud-based segment is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period due to its advantages such as easy access to data, reduced cost of ownership, and improved scalability. On the basis of end-users, the pharmaceutical and biotechnology company segment is expected to hold the largest share of the market owing to the increasing need for pharmacovigilance and drug safety software solutions in these companies. Geographically, North America is expected to dominate the global pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market owing to the presence of a large number of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and stringent regulatory requirements. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period due to the increasing number of clinical trials being conducted in this region and the increasing focus on patient safety and risk management. Overall, the pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market is expected to experience steady growth during the forecast period due to the increasing demand for pharmacovigilance and drug safety solutions and the growing emphasis on patient safety and risk management. Key Players in the Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market The report gives an in-depth analysis of the key players involved in the global pharmacovigilance and drug safety software market. The companies included in the market are as follows: IQVIA Accenture Cognizant Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings IBM ARIS Global ICON Plc Capgemini Oracle Parexel International Corporation Ab Cube Extedo GmbH Ennov Solutions Inc Key Topics Covered: 1 Preface 2 Executive Summary 3 Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market Overview 4 Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market Landscape 5 Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market Dynamics 6 Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market Segmentation 7 North America Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market 8 Europe Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market 9 Asia Pacific Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market 10 Latin America Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market 11 Middle East and Africa Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market 12 Patent Analysis 13 Grants Analysis 14 Funding Analysis 15 Partnership and Collaborations Analysis 16 Regulatory Framework 17 Supplier Landscape 18 Global Pharmacovigilance and Drug Safety Software Market - Distribution Model (Additional Insight) 19 Key Opinion Leaders (KOL) Insights (Additional Insight) 20 Company Competitiveness Analysis (Additional Insight) 21 Payment Methods (Additional Insight) Companies Mentioned Iqvia Accenture Cognizant Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings Ibm Aris Global Icon plc. Capgemini Oracle Parexel International Corporation Ab Cube Extedo GmbH Ennov Solutions Inc. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/gz0i6d About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-pharmacovigilance-and-drug-safety-software-market-report-2023-increasing-incidence-of-adverse-drug-reactions-drives-growth-301838462.html SOURCE Research and Markets [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Canvass AI CEO, Humera Malik, Joins World Economic Forum Strategic Intelligence Session Panel on Generative AI DENVER and TORONTO, May 31, 2023 /CNW/ - Canvass AI, a leader in industrial AI software, today announced that CEO Humera Malik joined a select panel of the World Economic Forum (WEF) to discuss the transformative impact of generative AI, its practical applications, and the importance of responsible AI release. The Strategic Intelligence Session: "Shaping Tomorrow: A Dive into Responsible Generative AI" is open to the Forum's approximately 30,000 TopLink users and Digital Members. Partcipants include Chet Kapoor, Chairman and CEO, Datastax; Shay David, Co-Founder and CEO, retrain.ai; and Lucia Velasco, Lead, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, WEF. "In this important session on generative AI, we look forward to bringing together Humera and other industry leaders in AI to explore the capabilities and potential of this highly transformative technology on industry and society at large," said Lucia Velasco, WEF." Humera Malik, CEO, Canvass AI said: "This has been a great Strategic Intelligence Session with my fellow panelists discussiong exciting real-world applications of generative AI, as well as addressing challenges and risks of this technology as it rapidly proliferates. Through such open discussions, we can ensure a safe harbour for everyone." Humera Malik is a technology entrepreneur and a leading voice and practitioner in applying artificial intelligence to optimize industrial operations, augment workforces, and achieve sustainable impact. About World Economic Foum The World Economic Forum, committed to improving the state of the world, is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. It was established in 1971 as a not-for-profit foundation and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It is independent, impartial and not tied to any special interests. The Forum strives in all its efforts to demonstrate entrepreneurship in the global public interest while upholding the highest standards of governance. The Forum believes that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change. About Canvass AI Canvass AI is a leading industrial AI software provider that puts industrial companies in control of their data, to make timely decisions, and achieve faster and sustainable outcomes. Some of the largest companies in the world use Canvass AI to empower their production teams for high performance decision making, to future-proof operations, and drive net-zero targets. Backed by Alphabet, and Yamaha Motor Ventures, Canvass AI is a member of the World Economic Forum's Global Innovation Community, Next Generation Manufacturing Canada, and is recognized by CB Insights as one of the world's top 50 technology companies that is advancing manufacturing. Follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn. Links: Canvass AI Logo Humera Malik Pix View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/canvass-ai-ceo-humera-malik-joins-world-economic-forum-strategic-intelligence-session-panel-on-generative-ai-301838851.html SOURCE Canvass AI [May 31, 2023] Ecommerce Aggregator Society Brands Acquires Wolf Tactical, a High-Performance Tactical Gear Company Founder Tim Wu Will Remain as Brand President and Lead Future Growth of the Company CANTON, Ohio, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Society Brands , an ecommerce aggregator built for and by founders, today announced the acquisition of Wolf Tactical , a high performance tactical gear company based in Fort Lee, New Jersey. Wolf Tactical offers products ranging from EDC Belts and Range Belts to Weighted Vests, Tactical Backpacks and more. "I started Wolf Tactical by myself as a side hustle with very limited knowledge of business and entrepreneurship. A combination of hard work and relentless learning allowed me to build it into a multi-million-dollar business," said Tim Wu, Founder o Wolf Tactical. "With the help of Society Brands, I have access to untapped potential that I would not be able to achieve by myself. The leadership team at Society Brands is phenomenal. They laid out a vision and concrete plan for Wolf Tactical that is along the lines of what I imagined. With this partnership, I am looking forward to taking the Wolf Tactical brand to a new level, while being able to learn from the best." Founded in 2017, Wolf Tactical provides customers with premium and affordable gear that is built to last and supported by a Lifetime Guarantee. The company is the seventh brand to join the Society Brands portfolio, which spans across a variety of consumer product categories. Tim Wu will assume the role of Brand President and continue to grow the brand's product portfolio with the support of the Society Brands team. "We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of Wolf Tactical and couldn't be more excited to partner with Tim Wu to help accelerate the business that he founded," said Michael Sirpilla, CEO of Society Brands. "Tim has done an incredible job of building a great brand that consumers love and he will continue guiding the vision of Wolf Tactical moving forward. With Tim's passion, skills and tribal knowledge coupled with Society Brands team and our expertise, anything is possible." Society Brands is well-positioned for a successful 2023 with a healthy acquisition pipeline on the horizon. The ecommerce aggregator continues to move full speed ahead with optimizing and growing acquired brands while executing long-term goals for the company. About Society Brands Society Brands is a tech-enabled consumer products company that acquires e-commerce native brands that primarily sell on Amazon and their own DTC sites. The company was built for and by founders, providing entrepreneurs meaningful liquidity while at the same time affording them an opportunity to stay on board, build their brand and roll equity into Society Brands' platform. For more information, please visit www.societybrands.com . View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ecommerce-aggregator-society-brands-acquires-wolf-tactical-a-high-performance-tactical-gear-company-301838954.html SOURCE Society Brands [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] ProGro BIO Announces Commissioning of New R&D Center ATLANTA, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ProGro BIO, an Atlanta-based AgTech microbial sciences company, has announced completion and commissioning of its new R&D center located outside of Boise, Idaho. The company specializes in development of all-natural organic soil inoculant solutions targeted to the agricultural sector. New ProGro facility houses advanced technology capable of producing concentrated microbial soil incoluants The facility houses the company's main research and development activities with the ability to perform specialized experimentation and microbial product R&D. ProGro's premier microbial soil inoculant, Rhizol, is the result of three decades of research and development and is the most robust all-natural, organic soil inoculant formulation available on the market today. Specifically formulaed as an advanced, broad-spectrum product, Rhizol has a comprehensive mode of action including stimulation of plant growth and building vibrant root systems with robust natural resistance to a host of soil-borne pathogens and parasitic nematodes. The new ProGro facility houses advanced microbial brewing bioreactors that can produce highly concentrated microbial liquid formulations with high efficiency. The company has perfected innovative production protocols that convert liquid Rhizol into highly concentrated fully soluble powder form for agricultural distribution. This soluble powder can be applied through several different application methods and is available for numerous crop targets including soybeans, corn, wheat, peanuts, cotton, tomatoes, potatoes, and numerous other vegetable crops. "ProGro's new world-class R&D facility houses some of the most advanced technology available and has been established as ProGro's operational image for future replication as we expand production capabilities around the country, said Barry Roberts, ProGro Chief Operating Officer. "We purposefully set out to develop this facility as one that is easily replicable, and we were very intentional in our technology choices which were carefully selected based on industry position and U.S. manufacturing sourcing." About ProGro BIO ProGro BIO is an AgTech microbial sciences company that produces all-natural organic microbial products containing advanced formulations of bacterial and fungal strains. The company is focused on revolutionizing agribusiness by dramatically improving soil health through natural microbial soil inoculation. Rhizol, an all-natural, organically certifiable product and the result of three decades of R&D, stimulates plant growth and builds vibrant root systems with robust natural resistance to a host of soil-borne pathogens and parasitic nematodes. The company completed a highly successful pre-seed funding round in early 2022. Learn more at www.progrobio.com . View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/progro-bio-announces-commissioning-of-new-rd-center-301839053.html SOURCE ProGro BIO Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Luxury labels are making exorbitant demands of customers in Korea, who remained hopelessly addicted to their products throughout lockdown. Customers not only have to wait in long lines for the privilege of giving money to the businesses but must buy millions worth of goods to "unlock" access to others. Mostly the strategy is to create a false scarcity that makes the bling even more desirable. "I was told I need to spend another W3 million if I want to buy a W2.45 million handbag. Did I hear that right?" wrote one member of an online community that brings together more than 600,000 label addicts (US$1=W1,265). French luggage and leather goods maker Goyard made headlines last year when Korean customers had to wait several months to get their hands on the popular Boheme bags due to a shortage of inventory, and it limited access to customers who spent at least W3 million a year there. [May 31, 2023] AlayaCare and Davis Pier Transform Care Delivery for Prince Edward Island (PEI) Health System in Strategic Relationship Home-based care technology platform and Canadian consultancy work together to design and address PEI home care reform mandates, implementing a modern and advanced end-to-end home care solution MONTREAL, May 31, 2023 /CNW/ - AlayaCare, a technology platform for home and community-based care, today shared details of its collaborative, strategic relationship with Davis Pier, a Canadian consulting firm with offices in Halifax, Toronto, and Charlottetown. AlayaCare and Davis Pier designed and implemented the first-ever home health platform that successfully addresses PEI's provincial care mandate. With the growing demand for home-based care across Canada, Davis Pier and AlayaCare helped Health PEI implement and realize the most modern home care management solution in Canada. In 2021, Health PEI engaged Davis Pier in a consulting relationship to update its government health system design and home care ecosystem. Transforming an entire provincial home health system is a complex undertaking. AlayaCare stepped up to the challenge, joining Davis Pier in leveraging each other's strategic knowledge to build and implement a modernized home care platform for Health PEI, rivaling advanced programs in other countries. Both companies guided Health PEI in planning and deploying Canada's most technologically advanced home care platform. "Davis Pier specializes in solving complex government and social challenges while driving positive impact for the communities where we serve," said Darryl Pierrynowski, Partner and Chief Operating Officer at Davis Pier. "Te AlayaCare platform was a critical enabler of Health PEI's Home Care Service Transformation to support caregivers and their clients wishing to recover and receive care in the safety of their own homes. As the demand for home care grows across Canada, we are excited about future collaborations with AlayaCare," added Pierrynowski. The alliance between AlayaCare and Davis Pier worked efficiently to meet the needs and objectives of Health PEI, following a well-strategized evaluation, discovery, change management, data transfer, and technology implementation period. AlayaCare platform education and training were also implemented for Health PEI home caregivers, benefitting all PEI residents who receive care in the place they call home. "Since the founding of AlayaCare, our mission has been one of compassion and needto create a better end-to-end platform, leveraging the most advanced technologies, optimized to make home care more available to our aging population worldwide," said Adrian Schauer, Founder, and CEO of AlayaCare. "As we deploy the AlayaCare platform across Canada, Davis Pier is an important consulting ally working with us as we help provincial health authorities provide more efficient, secure, and optimized access to home-based care," added Schauer. The AlayaCare Cloud platform is deployed across all of PEI, with a province-wide implementation underway in Newfoundland and Labrador. AlayaCare is used in public, private, and community-based home care organizations in Nova Scotia, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Alberta, New Brunswick, and Quebec. To learn how AlayaCare helps transform home-based care in North America, Australia, and New Zealand, visit: https://alayacare.com/ About Davis Pier Davis Pier works with government and non-profit organizations in Canada and internationally to deliver the services necessary to improve society and the lives of others by designing, planning, and implementing solutions to complex challenges. Davis Pier has achieved B Corp certification as a result of a keen focus on driving impact using a combination of consulting, research, innovation, and execution. The team at Davis Pier is multi-disciplinary made up of strategists, designers, consultants, and researchers with backgrounds in business, public policy, engineering, healthcare, and social science working extensively across health and social policy domains that include poverty and social services, healthcare and community health, early childhood development, justice, community building, inclusive economic development, and digital government. About AlayaCare AlayaCare is an end-to-end software platform for public, private, non-profit and community home-based care organizations that manages the entire client lifecycle, including needs assessments, care plans, scheduling, visit and route optimization, and visit verification. Founded in 2014 with over 680 employees, AlayaCare combines traditional in-home and virtual care solutions that enable care providers to lower the cost of care and achieve better outcomes for their clients. For more information, visit: AlayaCare.com www.alayacare.com SOURCE AlayaCare [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Next Sparc Growth Partners Launches Elevated Website CHAGRIN FALLS, Ohio, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Next Sparc Growth Partners, a founder-friendly, professional family office investing in emerging companies in the active lifestyle, health & wellness, technology, and business services industries, today announced the launch of its updated website. The new website has been designed to offer a user-friendly experience with improved navigation, functionality, and expanded content showcasing its portfolio companies and the firm's approach to partnering with high-growth organizations. Created with the user experience in mind, the site includes many new features to help users navigate the site and find valuable information about Next Sparc, its portfolio companies, and its target industries quickly and easily. New features include: An elevated, impactful brand design that captures the people-first culture of Next Sparc. Enhanced website structure and navigation that provides quick access to content to learn more. Robust content library to provide website visitors with actionable industry insights, news, and thought leadership resources. Contact details and requests for information are now easily found on the Referral Page streamlining the contact and referral process. Device-responsive functionality allows the new site and all media assets to be compatible with all browsers and mobile devices. A robust information hub for ambitious business owners and founders as they consider a partner to accelerate, grow, and expand their own business operations. "Visitors to the ew site can stay informed with the latest Next Sparc industry news through our new online blog, 'Sparc Thoughts,'" says James Carey, Partner and Head of Business Development at Next Sparc. "The blog contains rich content such as industry insights, press releases, featured events, and newsletters. This valuable content will also be highlighted in the Featured Content section on the home page, so the user is always just one click away from useful and pertinent information." The website was designed and built by Durkan Group, a digital-first design and development agency based outside of Philadelphia, PA. "We're excited for Next Sparc's new website to be embraced by growing founder-led and family-owned businesses," says Niall Durkan, President & Founder of Durkan Group. "The experience at large is robust, but easy to digest, and works to better reflect Next Sparc's unique operator focus and personalized approach." To access the new website or for more information on Next Sparc Growth Partners, visit www.nextsparc.com. About Next Sparc Next Sparc is a Cleveland-based, professional family office that makes direct investments in rapidly growing founder-led and family-owned businesses. We leverage our entrepreneurial experience, operational expertise, insights from 100+ transactions since 2009, and a repeatable playbook to grow and scale companies. We accelerate growth by leveraging our deep operational experience, patient capital, and extensive resources. Next Sparc serves as a value-added partner to our businesses and seeks entrepreneurs who desire to build a scalable business and accelerate growth. Learn more at nextsparc.com. About Durkan Group Durkan Group is a digital-first design and development agency that specializes in creating purpose-built experiences. Our team of digital strategists, UI/UX designers, and full stack web developers work closely to build high-end digital experiences for niche industries across private equity, venture capital, higher education, science and technology, and others. For more information, visit durkangroup.com. Contact: James Carey Partner [email protected] Next Sparc Growth Partners 7 1/2 N Franklin St. Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 (440) 600-2229 www.NextSparc.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/next-sparc-growth-partners-launches-elevated-website-301839129.html SOURCE Next Sparc [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] DataMesh Advances Innovation with Snapdragon Spaces to Further Make Digital Twins More Accessible SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DataMesh, a digital twin and enterprise metaverse company, is utilizing Snapdragon Spaces XR Developer Platform to bring its innovative digital twin and XR applications, such as DataMesh Director, to a wider range of AR glasses, including the Lenovo ThinkReality A3. This effort is aimed at making digital twins more accessible to frontline workers and creators in North America and beyond, addressing workflow challenges in training, planning, and everyday operations. DataMesh is showcasing its FactVerse applications such as DataMesh Director, DataMesh Inspector, and DataMesh Checklist at AWE USA 2023 from May 31 to June 2 at Booth S13 in the Startup Zone of Hall B. The enterprise metaverse platform FactVerse aims to empower everyday operations and drive enterprise motivation with a focus on Training, Experience, Monitor and Control, and Simulation (TEMS) scenarios to accelerate digital transformation, providing a plug-and-play experience for frontline employees. DataMesh Director is an enterprise-level digital twin content creation and collaboration platform that supports HoloLens, iOS, Android an PC platforms. DataMesh is now applying its user-friendly digital twin applications to a variety of smart AR glasses, supporting the industrial sectors to effortlessly manage training, guidance, and operational planning in the industrial sectors with low 3D and programming knowledge required. "We are excited to work with Snapdragon Spaces on our journey of democratizing digital twin technologies and contribute together to the application of XR in the industrial world," says Jie Li, Founder and CEO of DataMesh. "This is great news to the industry. Both content creators and frontline workers can benefit from the redefined experience of operations, manufacturing, and productivity." "Ultimately, our goal is to make digital twins and XR more accessible so that everyone can leverage them to improve their capabilities and efficiency, especially the 2 billion industrial workers worldwide. At DataMesh, we're working towards it by building an enterprise metaverse platform FactVerse," says Jie Li. Snapdragon Spaces is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon Spaces is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. About DataMesh DataMesh is a leading high-tech innovator specializing in digital twins and XR to bridge the digital and real world, empowering frontline workers. Headquartered in Singapore, DataMesh operates across Japan, North America, Southeast Asia, China, and Australia, with more than 500 customers in AEC, manufacturing, and facility management industries. In 2020, DataMesh was the only finalist from Asia for the Microsoft Partner of the Year, Mixed Reality category. DataMesh won NTT Docomo's top DX award in 2021, was recognized as a Fortune Impact Company in China in 2022 and has made the Forbes Asia 100 to Watch List. Visit us at https://datamesh.com/. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/datamesh-advances-innovation-with-snapdragon-spaces-to-further-make-digital-twins-more-accessible-301838933.html SOURCE DataMesh [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] CTV Adds Addictive Unscripted Series and Character Driven Dramas for 2023/24 Season New game show SNAKE OIL, hosted by David Spade and executive produced by Will Arnett; Justin Hartley thriller TRACKER; action-drama RESCUE: HI-SURF, from legendary producer John Wells and writer Matt Kester; Kaitlin Olson-led HIGH POTENTIAL from Drew Goddard; and reality series SPECIAL FORCES: WORLD'S TOUGHEST TEST further strengthen CTV's hit schedule New series for CTV's suite of Specialty Channels include THE KILLING KIND for CTV Drama Channel and JAMIE OLIVER: COOKING FOR LESS for CTV Life Channel CTV content streams on CTV.ca and the CTV App To tweet this release: thelede.ca/tBW1Mh TORONTO, May 31, 2023 /CNW/ - Bell Media announced today that it has landed new highly-anticipated series set to join CTV and its Specialty Channels as part of the 2023/24 season. The announcement comes in advance of the #BellMediaUpfront June 8 in Toronto, with the new series set to build on CTV's already strong slate of fan-favourites and ratings juggernauts, with additional new series to be announced. Coming to CTV ar: SNAKE OIL , the buzzed-about game show hosted and produced by Emmy and Golden Globe Award-nominated comedian David Spade (JUST SHOOT ME), and executive-produced by Emmy nominee Will Arnett (LEGO MASTERS), through his Electric Avenue Productions. , the buzzed-about game show hosted and produced by Emmy and Golden Globe Award-nominated comedian (JUST SHOOT ME), and executive-produced by Emmy nominee (LEGO MASTERS), through his Electric Avenue Productions. TRACKER , based on the bestselling novel The Never Game by Jeffery Deaver , and starring Justin Hartley (THIS IS US) as lone-wolf survivalist Colter Shaw, who roams the country as a "reward seeker," using his expert tracking skills to help private citizens and law enforcement solve mysteries while contending with his own fractured family. , based on the bestselling novel by , and starring (THIS IS US) as lone-wolf survivalist Colter Shaw, who roams the country as a "reward seeker," using his expert tracking skills to help private citizens and law enforcement solve mysteries while contending with his own fractured family. RESCUE: HI-SURF , a pulse-pounding Hawaii lifeguard drama from prolific, award-winning executive producer/director John Wells (SHAMELESS) and executive producer/writer Matt Kester (ANIMAL KINGDOM). , a pulse-pounding lifeguard drama from prolific, award-winning executive producer/director (SHAMELESS) and executive producer/writer (ANIMAL KINGDOM). HIGH POTENTIAL , written by Drew Goddard (THE GOOD PLACE) and based on the popular French series HAUT POTENTIEL INTELLECTUEL (HPI) starring Kaitlin Olson (IT'S ALWAYS SUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA ) and Daniel Sunjata (#FREERAYSHAWN). , written by (THE GOOD PLACE) and based on the popular French series HAUT POTENTIEL INTELLECTUEL (HPI) starring (IT'S ALWAYS SUNNY IN ) and Daniel Sunjata (#FREERAYSHAWN). SPECIAL FORCES: WORLD'S TOUGHEST TEST, a quasi-military training reality series where celebrity recruits endure some of the harshest, most-grueling challenges from the playbook of the Special Forces. Also joining the CTV schedule are beloved movies from "The Wonderful World of Disney". CTV's Specialty Channels have also expanded their suite of sought-after series, with the suspenseful, serialized drama THE KILLING KIND starring Emma Appleton (THE WITCHER) and Colin Morgan (MERLIN) for CTV Drama Channel; and JAMIE OLIVER: COOKING FOR LESS joins CTV Life Channel, where the prominent chef demonstrates his cooking skills and sheds light on various delicious recipes on a budget. To view full press release, click here. For more information, please contact: Matthew Almeida, CTV Networks, [email protected] or 647.389.2337 Jesse Wanagas, CTV Networks, [email protected] or 416.300.7355 SOURCE Bell Media [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Federman & Sherwood Investigates Managed Care of North America, Inc. for Data Breach The law firm of Federman & Sherwood has initiated an investigation into Managed Care of North America, Inc. with respect to their recent data breach. On May 26, 2023, Managed Care of North America, Inc. notified patients that the company experienced a data breach after an unauthorized party accessed sensitive consumer data entrusted to the company. The company also listed over 100 affected organizations affected by the breach that include Arkansas Department of Human Services, the City of New York Management Benefit Fund, Florida Healthy Kids Corp., Idaho Department of Health & Welfare, Iowa Department of Human Services, Louisiana Department of Health, Texas Health and Human Services Commission, and Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, to name a few. Accrding to Managed Care of North America, Inc., they determined that information stored on their servers may have been subject to unauthorized access from February 26, 2023 through March 7, 2023. Managed Care of North America, Inc. determined that the information exposed in the data breach includes: names, addresses, Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, financial information, medical information and health insurance information. If you wish to discuss this action, obtain further information, and/or participate in this litigation, please contact Lacrista A. Bagley either by email at [email protected] or for the full list of affected organizations, visit our firm's website www.federmanlaw.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531005980/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [May 31, 2023] Harvest Announces Presale of River Run Custom Townhomes Debut Residential Offering River Run Is Adjacent to the Sammamish River Trail and set within Harvest, Woodinville's New Gathering Place Featuring the Somm. Hotel, Prominent Wineries, Breweries, and Restaurants and More WOODINVILLE, Wash., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Harvest's debut residential offering, River Run Woodinville, launched presales on May 15, 2023 for its sleek, new townhomes, and already a number of homes have gone under contract. River Run, located on the Sammamish River, is offering a total of 31 luxury townhomes, each with a two-car garage, and twenty-two with elevators. "Wine, food, shopping, biking, events, and outdoor markets will all be within easy reach for residents of River Run at Harvest," says Sonya Johnston, broker of Harvest Agency, LLC. "River Run is connected to the Lake Sammamish Trail, which connects to the Burke-Gilman Trail offering hikers, bikers, and walkers the opportunity to adventure from Woodinville to the Ballard Locks." "We have received hundreds of presale inquiries for River Run, so the interest from potential buyers in the region is very trong," continued Johnson. "That's not surprising to us since Woodinville remains incredibly popular and Harvest will be the premier community in the region." Every home but one is a corner unit, with a variety of floor plans available, ranging in size from 1,968 to 2,975 square feet. Preconstruction pricing ranges from $1.85 million to over $3 million. Johnson believes discerning buyers will appreciate the attention to detail intrinsic to each home. "What will make these homes truly fabulous is the quality of fixtures and finish work, curated by Counterbalance Studio, a boutique interior design firm known for creating stunning contemporary living spaces." Overall, residential development at Harvest will consist of a minimum of 70 townhomes and condominium flats and at least 200 rental apartments. Of these, Terrine homes will present Vineyard Creek, an enclave of 45 luxury farmhouses each with a two-car garage. In addition, The Alexan, a Trammell Crow Residential development, is in the planning process for high-end apartments on multiple parcels. Harvest is poised to become the pinnacle development in Woodinville and the East Side, and its retail hub, the Harvest Yard, is under construction and slated for completion by late 2024. The Yard will offer a variety of tasting rooms, fine dining establishments, and lifestyle retail businesses. Featured tasting rooms will include Lachini, Avennia, Matthews Winery, Lobo Hills, Rustic Cork, and Cascade Cliffs. Side Hustle Brewery, a Bellevue Brewing brand, has also secured prime space. Fine dining establishments will include award-winning chef Ethan Stowell's How to Cook a Wolf and Bombo Pizza, and Eric Donnelly's Rock Creek Seafood and Spirits. The four-star Somm. Hotel and Spa will also be an anchor establishment at Harvest, defining it as a premier special event and travel destination. Interested buyers can learn more and contact River Run by visiting www.riverrunwoodinville.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/harvest-announces-presale-of-river-run-custom-townhomes-301839072.html SOURCE Harvest [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Po-po search for a suspected affront to local patriotism . . . Check the deets . . . Investigators said the man walked up to two businesses in the Heartland Meadows Industrial Park and stole the flags that were displayed on tall poles directly in front of the buildings. The industrial park is located at Heartland Drive and U.S. Highway 69 in Liberty. While officers have only taken reports of two stolen flags this month, the department said it believes the thief has stolen others. The other thefts just havent been reported. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Liberty police search for thief stealing American flags from businesses LIBERTY, Mo. - Police are looking for a brazen thief accused of stealing American flags from businesses in the Liberty area. The department released surveillance pictures of the man and his red truck. Investigators said the man walked up to two businesses in the Heartland Meadows Industrial Park and stole the flags that were displayed on tall poles directly in front of the buildings. LIberty, Missouri police looking for suspect who stole multiple American flags After the Memorial Day Weekend, Liberty, Mo., police are looking for a man who has apparently taken American flags from multiple businesses in the city. Police on Tuesday released surveillance photos of a man and truck wanted in connection to the cases. If you have any information about this case, contact the Liberty Police Department at 816-439-4701. Developing . . . Even after the recent spate of murders, there's a lot to catch up on and we wanted to take a moment to consider homicide follow-up, recruiting deets, a bit of good news and all manner of alleged misdeeds. Check TKC news gathering . . . Kansas City police identify 3 killed in Memorial Day shootings KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City police have released the names of three of the four homicide victims killed on Memorial Day. There is no indication that any of these four Memorial Day homicides are connected, but three of them happened within just 4 hours. Homicides continue to stack up in Kansas City as police seek community aid in curbing violence A violent year continued throughout Memorial Day.Five people were killed in less than 24 hours. The most recent happened at 35th and Wabash, where police say someone was shot and killed during a fight. A person of interest is in custody there.Police are also investigating a deadly shooting near 33rd and Colorado, as well as one at 36th and Agnes. Man dies 9 months after 2022 shooting at south Kansas City bar KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A man's death months after he was shot has added to Kansas City's 2022 homicide total. Over the weekend, the Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office alerted Kansas City police that a victim in a 2022 shooting had died from his injuries. Kansas City police said 45-year-old Tyler E. Victim dies over the weekend from wounds sustained in 2022 Peppermill Lounge shooting Over the weekend, the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department's homicide unit was notified by the Jackson County Medical Examiner's Office that a victim of 2022's Peppermill Lounge Shooting had died. 45-year-old Tyler Brown was injured nearly nine months prior during the Aug. Man charged following fatal shooting at apartment complex in KCMO KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - A man is facing charges following a shooting that happened earlier this month in the parking lot of an apartment complex in KCMO. According to the Jackson County Prosecutor's Office, 22-year-old Mikell R. Grigsby has been charged with voluntary manslaughter and armed criminal action. Kansas City man pleads guilty to meth trafficking, possessing illegal firearms A Kansas City man pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court to illegally possessing firearms and methamphetamine. Meth and a pistol were discovered after Melvin Carter crashed his ATV on an Independence, Mo., street, court documents said. Police connect Independence shooting, Raytown carjacking INDEPENDENCE, Mo. - It was mayhem stretching across two cities Monday. First there was an armed carjacking in Raytown, followed by a shooting at an Independence apartment complex. "The things that go through a dad's mind (are) taking care of his family, and it's a little nerve-wracking," said Tim Vogel, the dad of a 17-year-old carjacked at gunpoint. Johnson County daycare worker faces criminal charges OLATHE, Kan. (KCTV) - Former Johnson County daycare worker Rachel Wilkes faces two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. The Johnson County Prosecutor's Office says Wilkes worked at Children's Lighthouse Daycare Center in Olathe. Court records show Wilkes previously faced a domestic battery charge in 2007 but completed a diversion program. Authorities recover body of man missing after Missouri River float trip The body of a man who fell from a sailboat in the Missouri River has been recovered. The Missouri Highway Patrol reports Brian Hale's body was found on Friday, May 26, near the 350-mile marker of the Missouri River. Authorities said the incident was reported around 1:40 p.m. KCPD looking for missing woman last seen Sunday KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department is looking for a missing woman who has not been seen since Sunday, May 28. According to the police, 32-year-old Latasha Alexander was last seen that day at 7:30 p.m. in the area of 70th Street and Chestnut Avenue. Fentanyl summit in KCK brings officials together to discuss drug's dangers Libby Davis on Tuesday sat toward the front of a packed summit of health leaders and law enforcement at Kansas City, Kan., police headquarters.The Shawnee mother lost her son Cooper Davis two years ago to fentanyl poisoning. Law Enforcement Torch Run benefiting Kansas Special Olympics kicks off Wednesday morning A charity benefit to raise money for the Kansas Special Olympics kicks off Thursday in Wichita, Kansas. The start of the run is in safe hands.According to both the Shawnee and Olathe Police Departments, the build-up to it is a little competitive."We have a good history and track record here at the police department for being top fundraisers," Shawnee police captain Matt Seichepine said. KCMO teenagers speak on causes, solutions of youth violence KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Memorial Day weekend was especially violent, with three homicides and several shootings throughout the Kansas City area. Two teenagers from Independence were seriously injured in one of those incidents. As such, youth violence has been top-of-mind for many community leaders, families, educators and law enforcement. This 58-year-old Kansas City police recruit is also a grandfather KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City Police Department recruit isn't using his age as an excuse to avoid reaching his next goal. Meet Al Robertson. The 58-year-old grandfather is going through the police academy and expects to graduate this month. KCPD said Robertson must pass the same physical and mental tests as all other recruits. Developing . . . A major part of community outreach for local law enforcement involved encouraging residents to speak up, do the right thing and help bring violent offenders to justice. However . . . It's important to note that Kansas City has a tradition of silence that extends across generations and likely became part of our local culture around the time the Irish mob dominated local streets amid the prohibition era and wielded far more influence than East side gangs or Latino drug dealers. Here's one part of the story . . . A Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department spokesperson said it was among the most violent holiday weekends they can remember. Many people were hurting in Kansas City, but also urging the community do their part, too. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Former KCPD detective explains challenges in getting people to help with homicide investigations KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Memorial Day weekend brought violence and seven homicides across Kansas City, Missouri. A Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department spokesperson said it was among the most violent holiday weekends they can remember. Many people were hurting in Kansas City, but also urging the community do their part, too. 'I'm tired': Community activists keep pushing for change as violence in Kansas City continues In less than five hours, three people were killed in Kansas City, Missouri, on Monday. Nineteen-year-old Deion Miles, 24-year-old James Allen Jr. and 33-year-old Antonio Wells were all shot to death Monday evening.One of those killings happened at 34th and Wabash. As police investigated, people living in the area came to the crime scene, demanding change. Former gang member shares how he is working to stop violence among youth KANSAS CITY, MO - Memorial Day weekend was a violent one in Kansas City, Missouri, as the city recorded seven homicides. It makes Ossco Bolton, a former gang member's work all that more important. Bolton works to prevent violence among youth. Overnight police are responding to the latest homicide that likely brings the 2023 count to #75 so far this year and far ahead of 2020's record breaking pace . . . Here's the first report . . . Homicide 3800 Block NW 63rd ter This morning just before 3:30am officers were in the area of the 3800 block of NW 63rd when they heard the sound of gunfire in the area. At the same time 911 received an additional call of sound of shots near NW 63rd ter and NW Westwood Ln. When officers arrived to the area they located a vehicle off the road crashed into a streetlight pole. Inside the vehicle officers located an adult male who appeared to have been shot, unresponsive. Officers summoned EMS to the scene who declared the victim deceased here. Detectives will be canvassing for witnesses and crime scene investigators are processing the scene for evidence. If anyone has any information or saw or heard anything they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS there is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline. We are working with Partners for Peace in all our homicide investigations to monitor risks for retaliation and provide social services to affected residents. ####################### More info here . . . KC police investigate another early morning homicide KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City, Missouri police officers are investigating another early morning homicide. Officers were called to the 6200 block of Northwest Westwood Lane on a shooting call at about 3:30 a.m. Wednesday. Upon arrival, officers discovered a vehicle that had crashed with one victim inside, according to Jackson County Sheriff Darryl Forte. KCPD investigates overnight homicide near 63rd Terrace KANSAS CITY, Mo. -Police are investigating a homicide after a man was shot and killed in Kansas City Wednesday morning. Around 3:30 a.m. Kansas City police responded to the 3800 block of NW 63rd Terrace for a report of shots fired. When officers arrived they found a car that had crashed into a pole. KCPD Investigating 8th homicide this week, man shot in car on NW 63rd Terrace Kansas City, Missouri police are investigating the eighth homicide since Sunday night. The latest happened in the Northland, near NW 63rd Terrace and NW Westwood Lane.Around 3:30 a.m. Wednesday, police were in the area and got a call about shots being fired. When they arrived, they saw a car that ran into a light pole. Developing . . . As we noted on Sunday . . . We're disappointed that a faith community march of THOUSANDS was unreported by Kansas City mainstream media. We believe the event is newsworthy and from a journalistic perspective we were fascinated to see the neighborhood call to action along with a tense but fair exchange with a ranking KCPD officer. As always, a group of so many people willing to get off of the sofa and into the streets deserves acknowledgment. Again . . . Out of respect for any and every religious organization in KC proper, we're going to curtail comments here and let the clip and summary from the group speak on their own terms . . . "Israel United in Christ is a Biblical Organization that teaches the Gospel of Repentance from Sin to Our People scattered around the world as a Result of Disobedience to Gods Commandments. When you consider the plight of our people, it is one of turmoil and trauma. Our People, the Israelites suffer from a wide range of issues from Self Hatred, and Domestic Violence, to Mass Incarceration and Economic Exploitation... However, The Bible has the Solution to Our Peoples Problems." Take a look via www.TonysKansasCity.com link/embed . . . The Pentagon says China has declined a request by the U.S. for a meeting between their defense chiefs at an annual security forum in Singapore this weekend. Pentagon spokesman Brigadier General Pat Ryder said the U.S. in early May had offered for Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin to meet with the People's Republic of China Minister of National Defense Li Shangfu, but that invitation was turned down this week. Both defense leaders are slated to attend the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, with Austin speaking on Saturday and his Chinese counterpart scheduled to speak on Sunday. The annual dialogue is an informal gathering of defense officials and analysts in Singapore that also creates opportunities for side meetings among defense leaders. "The PRC's concerning unwillingness to engage in meaningful military-to-military discussions will not diminish DoD's commitment to seeking open lines of communication with the People's Liberation Army [PLA] at multiple levels as part of responsibly managing the relationship," Ryder said. He added that open lines of communication are important "to ensure that competition does not veer into conflict." A senior defense official told VOA on Tuesday that since 2021, the PRC has declined or failed to respond to more than a dozen requests from the Department of Defense for key leader engagements, along with multiple requests for standing dialogues and nearly 10 working-level engagements. "Frankly, it's just the latest in a litany of excuses," the senior defense official said. Tonight we wanted to take a peek at politics from a practical perspective . . . Beyond culture war bickering and at the neighborhood level. Accordingly . . . A recent note from a TKC reader puts a 4th District council contest in PERFECT perspective. Basically . . . KANSAS CITY MIDTOWN RESIDENTS HAVEN'T SEEN THEIR COUNCILMAN IN THE PAST FOUR YEARS BUT NOTICE HIM COMING AROUND A BIT MORE OFTEN AHEAD OF ELECTION SEASON!!! Even more importantly . . . Contact with the council dude isn't consistent. A KICK-ASS TKC READER says this: "Playing phone tag with Councilman Bunch is a total nightmare. His assistants are doing their best but there's only so much they can help me with . . . I wanted to talk with Councilman Bunch last month and I waited weeks to get on the phone with him. It's not like I'm trying to sign a treaty with the President or even have a sit down with the mayor; it was a simple phone call about local funding, street maintenance and a question about zoning. "I'm not a demanding person. I only wanted 5 minutes of his time. Weeks passed and NOTHING. His assistants forgot about me, I gently reminded them. When we finally spoke at a neighborhood meeting he was apologetic and said he would get in touch with me. That was a week ago and I don't mind waiting but I realize not everyone is as patient as me. "Meanwhile, Henry Rizzo and I have talked multiple times this year and he's very responsive and knowledgeable about city issues. He knows enough to direct me to other resources and different strategies I can take to solve my issues. "When it comes to just working with people on a human level . . . I was impressed with Rizzo's responsiveness and I just wanted to let you and your readers know about it." Now . . . To be fair, in recent meetings Councilman Bunch has acknowledged that his office hasn't been the most responsive at city hall and he promises to do better. Meanwhile . . . A reality check . . . Any longtime resident of Kansas City has spoken with Henry Rizzo at some point and even his harshest critics acknowledge his eagerness to talk with his colleagues, neighbors, constituents, random people he's standing to in late at the gas station, etc, etc. You decide . . . 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. Stephen Cohen is a volunteer with Leadnow, a Canada-wide organization is working to relieve the climate crisis by advocating for swift and progressive green energy measures and the end of oil and gas expansion. - Stephen Cohen photo Heres your Motive to head to Harbourfront this weekend: the Crime & Mystery festival A Tokyo court later upheld the ban on same-sex marriage but said a lack of legal protection for same-sex families violated their human rights. Tuesday's ruling was greeted with cheers from the activists and supporters waving rainbow flags outside the court. "This ruling has rescued us from the hurt of last year's ruling that said there was nothing wrong with the ban, and the hurt of what the government keeps saying," lead lawyer Yoko Mizutani told journalists and supporters outside the court. She was referring to a ruling in Osaka last year that the ban was not out of line with the constitution. The ruling by the Nagoya District Court was the second to find a ban against same-sex marriage unconstitutional, out of four cases over the past two years, and is likely to add to pressure to change the law in a country in which the constitution says marriage is between a man and a woman. A Japanese court ruled on Tuesday that not allowing same-sex marriage was unconstitutional, a decision activists welcomed as a step towards marriage equality in the only Group of Seven nation with no legal protection for same-sex unions. Though opinion polls show some 70 percent of the public supports same-sex marriage, the conservative ruling Liberal Democratic Party of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida opposes it. Kishida in February sacked an aide who sparked outrage by saying people would flee Japan if same-sex marriage was allowed, but the premier remains noncommittal about it and has said discussions must proceed "carefully." Nevertheless, more than 300 Japanese municipalities covering some 65 percent of the population allow same-sex couples to enter partnership agreements. But the right is limited in scope. Partners can't inherit each other's assets or have parental rights to each other's children. Hospital visits are not guaranteed. Mizutani said the court in its ruling had noted that such partnership agreements were not fully sufficient, which she took as an encouraging sign, adding that she felt the court recognized there was little difference between same-sex couples and other couples. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a press conference that the government did not believe the civil code and marriage laws were unconstitutional. "With regard to issues surrounding the introduction of same-sex marriage, we believe it is important to pay close attention to the opinions of all parts of the public," he said. While in general the world's third-largest economy is considered relatively liberal, the LGBT community has been largely invisible because of conservative attitudes. Taiwan became the first place in Asia to legalize same-sex marriages in 2019. A new law would have to be passed in Japan before same-sex marriages could actually take place. The government pledged to pass a law promoting "understanding" of LGBT people before hosting the G7 summit this month, but opposition from conservatives delayed it so much a watered-down version was only submitted to parliament the day before the summit began. The initial draft stipulated discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity should "not be tolerated" but was changed to "there should be no unfair discrimination", wording that critics say tacitly allows bigotry. Japan has come under increasing pressure to change, both from other G7 members but also from economic lobbies, with The benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index reached the highest level so far this year on Tuesday, rising 1.04 percent to close at 2,585.52 points. Chipmakers led the rally. Samsung Electronics rose 2.84 percent to W72,300, while SK Hynix increased 1.01 percent to W110,300 (US$1=W1,320). Samsung shares reached a new 52-week high, while SK Hynix stocks rose for three consecutive sessions. Some residents and fishermen along the Black Rock River, in Tobago are upset, over a private The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a service that allows hundreds of UAE residents whose visas were canceled due to staying outside the country for more than six months to return to the Emirates. This service, known as the re-entry permit, was introduced in January to facilitate the return of these residents. Previously, residents who stayed outside the UAE for over six months had to apply for a visit visa to return. Now, residents from all emirates, except Dubai, can apply for the re-entry permit service on the ICP website. Dubai visa holders have a separate process. It is a very straightforward process, said Abdul Gafoor, general manager of Al Mas Businessmen Service. We can do the process on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website of Dubai (GDRFA) and select the necessary option. They must provide a letter stating why they stayed outside the country. Residents cannot directly apply for the re-entry permit on the ICP website. Instead, they must go through an agent, and the sponsor can apply for the permit at any Amer Centre, as stated by an agent at the GDRFA call centre. The Canadian Armed Forces have shown how Canadian servicemen share with Ukraines defenders the skills of fighting in urban settings. Thats according to Canada Forces Twitter page, Ukrinform reports. "New recruits from the Armed Forces of Ukraine undergo training in conducting urban operations and trench warfare under the supervision of servicemen from the Canadian Armed Forces as part of Operation UNIFIER in Great Britain," the tweet reads. As part of UNIFIER, since 2015, Canadian servicemen have taught modern combat skills to more than 35,000 Ukrainian soldiers. After Russias full-scale invasion, Canadian instructors withdrew from the territory of Ukraine, before resuming training courses in Great Britain and Poland in just a few months. Russian President Vladimir Putin has attempted to downplay the drone attack on Moscow to avoid exposing the limited options he has to retaliate against Ukraine, which the Kremlin blames for the attack. This is said in a new report released by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), according to Ukrinform. Putin insinuated that the drone strike on Moscow was Kyivs response to Russian strikes, and the Russian Ministry of Defense conveniently claimed on May 30 that Russian forces carried out a group of strikes with long-range high-precision air-launched weapons at main decision-making centers in Ukraine. The Russian Ministry of Defense accused Ukraine of attacking Moscow with eight drones on the morning of May 30, and claimed that Russian forces shot down five of the drones and suppressed three drones with electronic warfare systems. Putin stated that Ukraine is trying to provoke a response and make Russia mirror its actions. The ISW report says that the Kremlin head attempted to downplay the drone attack on Moscow to avoid exposing the limited options he has to retaliate against Ukraine. Putins emphasis on past and ongoing missile strikes is likely an attempt to signal that Russia is already actively retaliating and does not need to respond to further Ukrainian provocations. Putin has consistently retaliated against genuine and purported Ukrainian actions by ordering massive missile and drone campaigns, likely due to Russian forces inability to achieve any decisive effects on the battlefield. As reported by Ukrinform, according to Russian media, about 25 drones attacked Moscow and Moscow region, most of them were shot down by air defense in Moscow region, some of the drones got caught in trees and wires because they were flying at an extremely low altitude. Three drones crashed into residential buildings, but one of them did not detonate an explosive. The Investigative Committee of Russia said that its employees are investigating "the facts of unmanned aerial vehicles falling on buildings in Moscow" on the spot. UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, while on a visit to Tallinn, has reaffirmed the UK's support for Ukraine and called on all other countries to provide such support. According to Ukrinform, Cleverly said this in an interview with Estonia's public broadcaster ERR. "We know that Ukraine is planning to push back hard against Russia sometime this spring and the UK has made it clear that we will continue to support Ukraine until they are successful in defending themselves against Russia. We call upon is that all of the countries that are currently supporting Ukraine to have the endurance to work with Ukraine for as long as it takes for them to regain their country," Cleverly said. When asked by ERR what message he would like to convey to Russian President Vladimir Putin, he said: "The message to Putin is clear: Your attempt to invade Ukraine has failed. You should withdraw your troops. You should restore peace to the European continent." "What he [Putin] should understand is that NATO allies stand strongly with each other. I am proud to be here in Estonia, an important and strong NATO ally, hosting the Enhanced Forward Presence (eFP), which is being led by British troops but is an international defensive military unit and that NATO stands strong and we become stronger still because of Putin's foolish attempted invasion of Ukraine," Cleverly added. Cleverly is on a visit to Estonia on May 30-31, where he holds meetings with high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Kaja Kallas and Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna. Norway will open for Ukraine a five-year military aid program worth a total of EUR 7 billion. This was discussed at a meeting between Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stre and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Oslo, Ukrinform reports with reference to Norways foreign ministry. Stre noted that his country and other Allies had supported Ukraine in its fight for independence and freedom from the very outset. We will support Ukraine for as long as is necessary. Under the Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine, Norway will provide military, humanitarian and civilian support totalling NOK 75 billion (EUR 7 billion) over a period of five years, said Stre," At the same time, it was emphasized that promoting long-term cooperation between NATO and Ukraine is an important goal. "Membership of NATO has been a cornerstone of Norwegian security policy since the Alliance was established in 1949, and is of crucial importance now that there is war again in Europe," Prime Minister emphasized. He noted that Norway has committed to increase defense spending to at least 2% of GDP by 2026. As reported, an informal meeting of NATO foreign ministers is taking place in Oslo from May 31 through June 1. Photo: Office of the Prime Minister State Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture Zsolt Feldman stated that Hungary asked the European Union to extend restrictions on imports of Ukrainian grains and oilseeds for five Eastern European countries until at least the end of 2023. That's according to Reuters, Ukrinform reports. Feldman also added that Budapest has asked Brussels to provide financial support to local farmers to facilitate the transportation of grain stocks that were stuck in domestic storage until this year's harvest. "Our interest is that Hungary's harvest could be completed safely and Hungarian farmers could be able to sell their product," he said after a meeting of EU agriculture ministers in Brussels on Tuesday evening. As Ukrinform reported, on April 28, the European Commission agreed with four of Ukraine's neighboring countries - Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia - on a package of measures to be implemented after the countries cancelled their unilateral actions against agricultural imports from Ukraine. This package restricts imports of four key products from Ukraine - wheat, corn, rapeseed and sunflower seeds - to the territory of these countries, as well as Romania, although it retains the possibility of transit of such goods to other EU countries and the world market. These EU countries, which are Ukraine's neighbors, insist on continuing restrictions on imports of Ukrainian agricultural products after June 5, when the updated duty-free trade regime between Ukraine and the EU comes into effect. In June, European Affairs Ministers will consider the European Commission's verbal report on progress towards EU integration and the implementation of recommendations in this regard, which were given to Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. Jessica Roswall, representative of the Swedish Presidency of the EU, Minister for European Affairs of Sweden, said this on Tuesday in Brussels before the EU Council of Ministers for General Affairs, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. The Swedish Minister noted that, during the informal meeting of EU ministers in Stockholm in June, they intend to receive information on the European Commission's verbal report on progress in Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. She did not name a specific date for such a meeting and noted that this issue is currently being worked out at the level of working groups. According to Rosvall, during today's meeting of the EU Council of Ministers for General Affairs, European officials will consider two main issues: preparations for the June European Council and hearings on the procedure for applying Article 7 of the EU agreement to Hungary and Poland, in the context of these countries' compliance with the rule of law. The Swedish official said that as far as preparations for the European Council in June are concerned, the Swedish Presidency continues to work on new sanctions against Russia. They will also consider how to ensure the long-term competitiveness of the economy. In addition, leaders will receive an update on the work on migration. She also added that the hearings (on Hungary and Poland - ed.) will be held in close contact with the European Commission and the European Parliament. It will be an opportunity for member states to ask questions and get answers on how the values of the European Union are being upheld in these two countries. As reported earlier, the European Commission has announced its intention to present a preliminary "oral" report on the progress made by Ukraine in implementing the seven recommendations made to Ukraine after it was granted candidate status. Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia will be included for the first time in the European Commission's general report on EU enlargement, which is usually published in October and covers the situation in all candidate countries. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and Federal Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz have discussed the implementation of previously reached agreements, the enhancing of Ukraine's defense capabilities, including air defense, as well as upcoming international events. The Head of State wrote this on his Twitter account, Ukrinform reports. I had a substantive phone call with Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz. I thanked him for implementing a powerful 3 billion defense package. We discussed the implementation of the agreements reached during my recent visit to Germany and further strengthening of Ukraine's defense capabilities, in particular our air defense. We coordinated our positions on the eve of upcoming international events, Zelensky wrote. As reported, on May 14, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky visited Germany for the first time since Russias full-scale invasion. Photo: Presidents Office North Korea fired a space rocket Wednesday just days after it announced plans to launch a military spy satellite, setting off sirens and evacuation warnings in Seoul and Okinawa. The rocket was fired southward from Tongchang-ri, North Pyeongan Province at around 6:30 a.m and fell into the West Sea some 200 km off the South's Eocheong Island, the Joint Chiefs of Staff said. North Korea was quick to admit the failure, saying that the rocket carrying a military spy satellite crashed into the West Sea due to an engine problem. But it vowed to try again as soon as possible. North Korea earlier announced it would launch its first military reconnaissance satellite between May 31 and June 11. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Polish counterpart Mateusz Morawiecki will discuss the international response to Russia's all-out invasion of Ukraine. That's according to Trudeau's office, which announced Morawiecki's visit to Canada this week, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "The visit, Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Morawiecki will hold a bilateral meeting to address the regional defense and security challenges resulting from Russia's brutal and unjustifiable war of aggression against Ukraine and collaborate on their countries continued support to Ukraine," the report said. This meeting will also be an opportunity for the two leaders to advance their joint commitment to the rules-based international order and the growing Canada-Poland trade relationship to create good, middle-class jobs in both countries, including through opportunities in clean energy. Ukraine strongly condemns DPRK's attempted military satellite launch using ballistic missile technology. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said this in a statement posted on its website, according to Ukrinform. "Pyongyang once again conducts acts that destabilize the situation in the region and violate international law. The announcements of further launches in the near future raise even more concerns," the ministry said. It added that the use by DPRK of ballistic technology in missile launches as well as the continuation of North Korea's missile and nuclear programs are a gross violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions. "Ukraine calls for strengthening of efforts by the international community to put pressure on Pyongyang in order to ensure stability and security on the Korean Peninsula," the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said. Early on Wednesday, North Korea launched a carrier rocket, having notified Japan of a plan to launch a satellite between May 31 and June 11. South Korea, the United States and Japan have warned Pyongyang that its plans to launch a satellite are illegal. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada ordered the Self-Defense Forces to destroy any ballistic missiles approaching the country after North Korea announced plans to launch a satellite. NATO member countries will not allow Russia to decide when Ukraine can join the Western alliance. Norwegian Minister for Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt said this on the eve of a two-day meeting with her NATO counterparts, Ukrinform reports with reference to Reuters. "It is for Ukraine and NATO allies to decide when Ukraine becomes a NATO member, it's not up to Moscow to decide," Huitfeldt said. The minister also stressed that Sweden should become a full member before the upcoming NATO summit that is to take place in Vilnius on July 11-12. "There is absolutely no reason for holding Sweden back," she said. "Sweden fulfills all the criteria." As Ukrinform reported, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated on May 24 that Ukraine will not be able to join NATO while the war is going on. Russian crimes against Ukrainian children, which have been committed since the full-scale invasion started, bear signs of genocide against the Ukrainian people. The relevant statement was made by Daria Herasymchuk, Advisor and Presidents Commissioner for Childrens Rights and Childrens Rehabilitation, in a commentary to journalists during the UA: War. Unsung Lullaby conference on the occasion of International Childrens Day, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. Russia kills our children, Russia injures them. Sadly, children are subjected to sexual violence; children are kidnapped; they live in conditions that are absolutely unfit for living in the temporarily occupied areas. Everything that I have just mentioned is nothing but signs of genocide against the Ukrainian people through Ukrainian children, Herasymchuk said. In her words, proving the crime of genocide is a rather complex matter, but it is Ukraines objective. Herasymchuk noted that the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for the head of the terrorist state, Vladimir Putin, and Russias ombudswoman for childrens rights, Maria Lvova-Belova, in fact, is the first step towards proving the crime of genocide. Herasymchuk emphasized that Ukraines priority now is to bring back the Ukrainian children, which had been abducted by Russians. A total of 371 children have already returned to Ukraine. According to Herasymchuk, the state is using all methods and tools to document Russian crimes against children as quickly as possible and bring the offenders to justice. | By Deborah Kotz With an urgent mission to address the alarming rise in drug overdose deaths, the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) has announced plans to open the new Kahlert Institute for Addiction Medicine. It will be funded with a $10 million gift from the Maryland-based Kahlert Foundation with an additional $10 million provided by the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) and $5 million from UMSOM to renovate research facilities on campus. UMSOM has committed to raise an additional $5 million in philanthropic donations for the Kahlert Institute. With a commitment of $30 million in funding, the Kahlert Institute will bring together leading addiction experts in a shared research space to collaborate and create the synergy necessary for systemic change. UMSOM faculty will serve as an integral part of this institute. They will include neuroscientists, studying the brain mechanisms underlying substance use and its lifelong consequences, and clinical researchers investigating potential interventions in patient trials. Institute members also will include substance use disorder specialists who understand the daily realities of caring for patients with complex disorders often involving psychiatric illness, trauma, and socioeconomic stressors. (l-r) Greg W. Kahlert, Eric Weintraub, MD, Asaf Keller, PhD, Sarah Kattakuzhy, MD Aiming for Radical Innovation We need revolutionary progress in the area of addiction treatment and recovery. The Kahlert Foundation recognizes that to achieve radical innovation, you need to bring together the leading experts across multiple disciplines, said Greg Kahlert, president of the Kahlert Foundation. Millions of people are affected by addiction in this country, including the child of one of our team members at the Kahlert Foundation. We are hopeful that the Kahlert Institute for Addiction Medicine will discover new treatments that will save countless lives in the future. Maryland alone has experienced a more than doubling in its rate of drug overdose deaths from 2015 to 2020 from 21 deaths to 44 deaths per 100,000 people. This increase is one of the highest in the nation with an overdose death rate that is 50 percent higher than the national average. In Baltimore City, 964 deaths were attributed to opioid overdose in 2020, nearly triple the number of deaths from homicide. There is not a person that I know who hasnt been impacted by this opioid epidemic. Its clear we need to do more, said Kahlert Institute associate director Eric Weintraub, MD, professor of psychiatry and director of the Division of Addiction Research and Treatment at UMSOM. One critical goal is to establish a collaboration between basic scientists in the field of addiction and clinicians who are treating patients. We need to work closely, put our heads together, and develop strategies for research and treatment that will be effective in the long term. Education will serve as a foundational pillar of the Kahlert Institute with interprofessional training on addiction treatment provided within the University system, as well as to the greater Maryland community. Trainees will include community members and peer counselors as well as health professionals and UMB graduate students entering the medical field. The aim is to educate and increase the next generation of addiction counselors and health providers and to create a model that will serve as a national blueprint for community-academic partnerships. The University of Maryland, Baltimore is a research powerhouse dedicated to finding solutions to the most pressing problems of today, including addiction. Opioid use disorder and addiction have created a public health crisis in Baltimore, in Maryland, and across the country, said Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, president of UMB. UMBs mission to improve the human condition and serve the public good means that we have a responsibility to do what we can to address this crisis, and I expect the research we will conduct at the Kahlert Institute will make a powerful difference. Hub for Multidisciplinary Research Collaboration The Kahlert Institute will create a central hub allowing multidisciplinary investigators to bring together their knowledge and accelerate innovation by sharing the same physical space. It will be located on a currently shelled floor of Health Sciences Research Facility Ill on the UMSOM campus with state-of-the-art labs to accelerate fundamental and translational science, alongside a fully integrated space for clinical care, clinical research, and education. Last year, 20 million Americans were diagnosed with substance use disorder, and only 10 percent received treatment. Overall, more than 100,000 people nationally died from a drug overdose," said UMSOM Dean Mark T. Gladwin, MD, who also is vice president for medical affairs, UMB, and the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor, UMSOM. The Kahlert Institute seeks to build a bridge from the lab bench, where rapid advances in fundamental neuroscience will spur innovative therapies, to the clinic, where lifesaving medications like buprenorphine and methadone require an optimized system to ensure access to any patient in need. Fundamental research will focus on developing and testing novel interventions, including behavioral therapies, drugs, and innovative technologies to reduce cravings, drug use, and the many complications of addiction. Faculty members also will conduct accelerated preclinical research to identify why certain individuals are more susceptible to addiction. Others will explore the cause of the high comorbidity between substance abuse disorders and neuropsychiatric diseases such as depression and schizophrenia. Fetal programming studies investigating how genes are expressed will aim to measure the impact of prenatal exposure to drugs and ways to reduce the long-term consequences. Our research techniques include behavioral, neurophysiological, genetic, molecular, and computational approaches. We investigate drugs as diverse as opioids, cocaine, amphetamines, cannabis, nicotine, and alcohol, said Asaf Keller, PhD, the Donald E. Wilson, MD, MACP Distinguished Professor and chair of the Department of Neurobiology, UMSOM, and associate director of the Kahlert Institute. This collaboration will help us expand our basic and translational research opportunities by more fully understanding the challenges in the field of addiction medicine to develop new strategies and research approaches. Supportive Therapies to Prevent Relapse Clinical studies will include analyzing innovative treatment strategies to determine, for example, how supportive therapies delivered by peer counselors can prevent relapse. A foundational activity of the Kahlert Institute will be to establish a Community Advisory Board that will include individuals with substance use disorder, community members affected by addiction, and harm reductionists. In order for the Kahlert lnstitutes scientific, clinical, and educational work to have relevance and impact, it must be grounded in and shaped by the lived experience of individuals with addiction, said Kahlert Institute associate director Sarah Kattakuzhy, MD, MPH, associate professor in the Division of Clinical Care & Research in the Institute of Human Virology (IHV) at UMSOM. We want to reduce death and long-term complications of addiction, especially in disproportionately affected communities. Black patients, for example, are far less likely to receive certain medications to treat opioid use disorder than white patients, and we need to find ways to eliminate this disparity. Continuum of Care for Patients Another major goal of the Kahlert Institute focuses on improving the continuum of care for individuals with addiction. Patients with addictions often face additional challenges in accessing traditional health care settings. Experts will focus on creating a more effective care model to address these patients primary health care needs and ensure that they have continued access to medication like suboxone or methadone as well as psychiatric services for mental health issues. The Kahlert Institute also will closely collaborate with the Maryland Addiction Consultation Service, a UMSOM-run, state-sponsored program to expand treatment of opioid use disorder. Research programs with an established portfolio in addiction also will be part of the collaboration, including the new University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing; IHVs Research Initiative in Infectious Disease and Substance Use; UMSOMs Institute for Substance Use in Pregnancy and Research Initiative in Infectious Disease in Substance Use; and the Center for Addiction Medicine at the University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Campus, a comprehensive clinical program offering medication-assisted treatment and outpatient counseling. The newly established University of Maryland - Medicine Institute for Neuroscience Discovery (UM-MIND) will have a strong connection to the Kahlert Institute, with the two institutes working together to further the science of addiction. UM-MIND director Margaret McCarthy, MD, the James and Carolyn Frenkil Deans Professor and chair of the Department of Pharmacology, UMSOM, will serve on the Kahlert Institutes Executive Committee. About the University of Maryland School of Medicine Now in its third century, the University of Maryland School of Medicine was chartered in 1807 as the first public medical school in the United States. It continues today as one of the fastest-growing, top-tier biomedical research enterprises in the world with 46 academic departments, centers, institutes, and programs, and a faculty of more than 3,000 physicians, scientists, and allied health professionals, including members of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Sciences, and a distinguished two-time winner of the Albert E. Lasker Award in Medical Research. With an operating budget of more than $1.2 billion, the School of Medicine works closely in partnership with the University of Maryland Medical Center and University of Maryland Medical System to provide research-intensive, academic, and clinically based care for nearly 2 million patients each year. The School of Medicine has more than $500 million in extramural funding, with most of its academic departments highly ranked among all medical schools in the nation in research funding. As one of the seven professional schools that make up the University of Maryland, Baltimore campus, the School of Medicine has a total population of nearly 9,000 faculty and staff, including 2,500 students, trainees, residents, and fellows. The School of Medicine, which ranks as the eighth-highest among public medical schools in research productivity (according to the Association of American Medical Colleges profile) is an innovator in translational medicine, with 606 active patents and 52 startup companies. In the latest U.S. News & World Report ranking of the Best Medical Schools, published in 2023, the School of Medicine is ranked No. 10 among the 92 public medical schools in the U.S., and in the top 16 percent (No. 32) of all 192 public and private U.S. medical schools. The School of Medicine works locally, nationally, and globally, with research and treatment facilities in 36 countries around the world. Visit medschool.umaryland.edu. About the Kahlert Foundation For more than three decades, the Kahlert Foundation has devoted its primary efforts to improving the quality of life and well-being of people and communities in Maryland. The foundation was established by William Bill E. Kahlert, who was the co-founder of Evapco, Inc., an industry-leading manufacturing company with solutions for worldwide evaporative cooling and industrial refrigeration markets. Evapcos corporate offices are in Taneytown, Md., in Carroll County. Bills son, Greg Kahlert, has been the president of the foundation since 2011. Greg Kahlert has since devoted his time to furthering the impact of the organization around the state. In 2015, the Kahlert Foundation expanded its philanthropy mission to include the state of Utah, where Gregs daughter resides. In 2022, more than $17 million in grants were provided to charitable organizations in the areas of health care, education, youth programs, veterans organizations, and human services. He is visiting here ahead of the film's release on June 14. "When I first saw the periodic table at school, it looked like apartment complexes. All these little boxes reminded me of the families and the neighborhood I was growing up with," Sohn told reporters on Tuesday. The director of Disney-Pixar's latest animated feature "Elemental" was born in New York, where his Korean immigrant parents ran a grocery store. But Peter Sohn has had higher ambitions since he was a kid drawing things while studying the periodic table. "Elemental" takes place in Element City where fire, water, air and earth live together. It is not only a story of how people from different cultures understand each other and learn to live together but also explores father-daughter dynamics. "The idea of an immigration storyline boiled down to a father-daughter has been met with very positive reactions," Sohn said. His personal experiences are reflected in the heroine Amber's encounters with culture clashes and prejudice. A water family she meets asks her, "How can you speak our language so well?" That is a question most Korean Americans encounter in the U.S. He said it is distressing when people first encounter such prejudice, but that also helps them look at who they are. Sohn joined Pixar as an animator in 2000 and took part in the production of "Finding Nemo" and "The Incredibles." In 2015 he made his directorial debut with "The Good Dinosaur." The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development In September 2015, world leaders and civil society representatives gathered at UN headquarters in New York and decided on a plan of action to eradicate poverty, protect the planet and ensure that people achieve peace and prosperity. This plan, known as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, resulted in the creation of 17 Sustainable Development Objectives (ODS), which are based on the old Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The Agenda 2030 states that in order to guide the world towards a sustainable path, bold and transformative action is urgently needed. The ODS, in turn, is an ambitious list of targets to be met by 2030. The main goal of this new agenda is to leave no one behind. That is, it is imperative that all people in all parts of the world become part of this transformation. The process leading to the post 2015 development agenda was led by UN member states with the participation of key civil society groups and stakeholders. The agenda reflects new development challenges and is linked to the outcome of Rio + 20 - the UN Conference on Sustainable Development - held in June 2012 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. "The 17 Sustainable Development Goals and 169 targets we are announcing today demonstrate the scale and ambition of this new universal Agenda, building on the legacy of the Millennium Development Goals and concluding what they have failed to achieve. They will seek to attain human rights of all people and achieve gender equality, as well as the empowerment of women and girls.These are integrated and indivisible, and they balance the three dimensions of sustainable development: economic, social and environmental " - Excerpt from the Preamble of the final document of Agenda 2030 "Transforming Our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development" Know more: www.agenda2030.org.br www.onu.org.br/pos2015 For information only - not an official document UNIS/OS/582 31 May 2023 PRESS RELEASE New opportunity to conduct microgravity experiments at the Bremen Drop Towers VIENNA, 31 May 2023 (United Nations Information Service) -The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) in collaboration with the Center of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity (ZARM) at the University of Bremen, Germany and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Space Agency have opened the ninth round of applications for the Fellowship Programme for Drop Tower Experiment Series (DropTES). DropTES provides selected research teams access to ZARM's unique ground-based facilities where they can conduct short microgravity experiments to demonstrate specific technologies and test various scientific fields, such as fundamental physics, astrophysics, biology and also applied sciences such as fluid dynamics, combustion, chemistry, and material sciences. These microgravity experiments offer an achievable entry point for developing nations to acquire new knowledge and skills and are beneficial for kickstarting efforts for building capacity in space activities. DropTES is a long-standing programme that began in 2014 and is part of the Hypergravity/Microgravity track of UNOOSA's Access to Space for All initiative. So far, seven teams from Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and Europe have conducted various experiments. Applications for the opportunity are now open on UNOOSA's DropTES Rounds web page until 26 November 2023. Acting Director of UNOOSA Niklas Hedman said: "DropTES offers seemingly limitless opportunities in different innovative scientific and technical fields. We are truly excited to launch another round of applications to select a new team to benefit from this programme thanks to the generous support of ZARM and DLR Space Agency. I recommend any research team interested in gaining experience and knowledge of space activities to apply." Director of ZARM Marc Avila said: "With the support of UNOOSA and DLR, I believe we have created an exceptional opportunity for research teams to turn their interest in space science and technology into something real: here at ZARM, young researchers find the support to transform their ideas for a microgravity experiment into a hands-on space project - and they can actually be part of the professional space environment. Especially for students from developing countries or countries that do not have their own space programmes, DropTES could be the first step in their professional space careers." Project Manager of the Drop Tower at DLR Space Agency Tobias Saltzman, said: "The German Space Agency is proud to contribute the use of its national Drop Tower facility to the outstanding UNOOSA program Drop TES, realizing microgravity experiments for students. We are convinced that the support of young scientists in realizing their scientific ideas is the keystone for solving the world's challenges to come." * *** * For more information, please contact: Access to Space for All initiative Team United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) Email: unoosa-access-to-space[at]un.org Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus Sergei Aleinik on Wednesday discussed the matters of mutual interest, including the commitments made during the sixth session of Pakistan-Belarus Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) in January 2023 at Minsk, Belarus ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st May, 2023 ) :Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus Sergei Aleinik on Wednesday discussed the matters of mutual interest, including the commitments made during the sixth session of Pakistan-Belarus Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) in January 2023 at Minsk, Belarus. Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic Belarus Sergei Aleinik called on the minister, said a press release issued here. The meeting was also attended by Andrei Metelitsa, the Ambassador of Belarus to Pakistan, Igor Bely, the DG for Asia, Africa and Latin America, and Ilya Kanapliou, the Trade Councillor at the Embassy of Belarus to Pakistan, Humair Karim, the acting secretary EAD, the additional secretary, and other senior officials from the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Minister for Economic Affairs Sardar Ayaz Sadiq warmly welcomed the foreign minister of the Republic of Belarus and highlighted that both countries shared a cordial and friendly relationship and are committed to strengthening bilateral ties in future. He appreciated the successful 6th Session of Pakistan-Belarus JMC, which paved the way for further cooperation in trade, agriculture, health, science & technology, tourism, and investment in the industrial sector. He further highlighted that Belarusian nationals can benefit from the Short-Term Training Program in Professional Training and Advancement Program (PTAP) under the three disciplines: banking, railways, and postal. Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus Sergei Aleinik showed keen interest on further enhancing bilateral ties and emphasized that trade between the two countries is far below the true potential and needs to be enhanced through G2G and B2B interaction, trade exhibitions and harmonization of banking procedures. He further highlighted the expertise of Belarusian bio and medical technologies, geological exploration, mining technology, agricultural equipment, fertilizers, and information & communication technology from which Pakistan can benefit. He also appreciated the Government of Pakistan's outlook towards the enhancement of trade and commerce as well as the development of agriculture. Moreover, he highlighted the significance of the roadmap for trade facilitation between both countries to achieve sustainable development. Sadiq apprised Aleinik that Pakistan has conducive policies for investment in food processing, pharmaceuticals, automotive, agriculture, textile, energy, construction, and tourism sectors. He highlighted Pakistan's potential to export textile and agriculture products and medical and surgical equipment to Belarus while benefiting from Belarusian expertise for joint ventures in heavy machinery and plants. He emphasized further strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries utilizing the forum of the Pak-Belarus Joint Ministerial Commission. The Foreign Minister for Belarus extended a warm invitation to the Federal for Economic Affairs to visit Belarus. The meeting ended with a vote of thanks from both sides. On Tuesday, during a joint news conference with Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Lulea, Sweden, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that both issues "should go forward as quickly as possible." In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Finland and Sweden applied for NATO membership in May 2022. The bids, which must be approved by all NATO members, were held up by objections from Turkey and Hungary though Finland's bid was finally approved in April. This is the first time Biden has linked the two issues together. Neither the White House nor the Turkish government mentioned the potential F-16 sale in their readout of the call. U.S. administration officials have repeatedly rejected suggestions of a quid pro quo between the transatlantic military alliance's expansion and a weapons sale. "That's not a condition," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated during her press briefing Tuesday. "President Biden has long been clear that he supports selling F-16s." Biden spoke with Erdogan on Monday to congratulate him on winning his third presidential term and said the two had discussed the issue of Sweden's NATO accession and Turkey's request to overhaul and expand its fleet of American-made F-16 fighter jets. "He still wants to work on something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted a deal with Sweden, so let's get that done. And so, we'll be back in touch with one another," Biden said, adding that they will talk more about it "next week." Aiming to secure support for Sweden's bid to join NATO, U.S. President Joe Biden signaled a transactional approach in his engagement with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The newly reelected Turkish leader has been one of the most consequential yet complicated members of the transatlantic military alliance. F-16s Ankara has long sought to purchase 40 F-16 fighter jets made by U.S. company Lockheed Martin and nearly 80 modernization kits for its air force's existing warplanes -- a $20 billion transaction. The F-16 jets make up the bulk of Turkey's combat aircraft after the Trump administration in 2019 expelled Ankara from the fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet program over its decision to acquire Russian-made S-400 air defense systems. The U.S. Congress, which has authority to block major weapons sales, objects to F-16 sales for reasons beyond NATO enlargement. It wants Ankara to ease tensions with Greece, refrain from invading northern Syria and enforce sanctions against Russia for its war on Ukraine. In April, about two weeks after Turkey ratified its support for Finland joining NATO, Washington approved a $259 million sale of avionics software upgrades for Ankara's current fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft. But Sweden's bid is still held up because Ankara believes that Stockholm is harboring "terrorists" -- militants from the banned Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which took up arms against the Turkish state in 1984. Swedish lawmakers have passed legislation tightening the country's anti-terrorism laws, a move expected to help persuade Turkey. U.S. and Swedish officials have expressed hope that Sweden's membership will be confirmed by the time NATO leaders meet in Vilnius, Lithuania, in mid-July. While Erdogan is likely to leverage his support for Sweden, he is also a pragmatist, said Asli Aydintasbas, a Turkish journalist and visiting fellow in the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings. "What we are going to see is a bit of a last-minute drama heading up to the Vilnius summit," Aydntasbas told VOA. "At the end, it's possible that this will be resolved on the night of the summit." Fraught Relations F-16s aside, U.S.-Turkish ties will remain fraught, said James Jeffrey, a former U.S. ambassador to Turkey, who now chairs the Middle East program at the Wilson Center. "It's a complicated, transactional relationship," Jeffrey told VOA. "It's never 100 percent on our side. We're hoping it won't be more than 50% away from us, but a lot depends on the personal relationship between Biden and Erdogan. It's been frosty; the call is a good first step." Solid ties with Ankara will be "dramatically strategic in terms of containing Russia," as well as containing Iran and terrorist movements in the region -- all key goals for Washington, Jeffrey added. However, Erdogan's friendly ties with Russian leader Vladimir Putin while NATO helps Ukraine to fend off a Russian invasion have made Western officials uneasy. "We are not bound by the West's sanctions," Erdogan said in a CNN interview earlier this month. "We are a strong state, and we have a positive relationship with Russia." Ankara has calibrated its response to the war in Ukraine consistent with its own strategic interests, condemning the invasion and restricting Russian warships and military flights across its territory while refusing to join Western sanctions on Russia and expanding its trade ties with Moscow. At the same time Erdogan has maintained good ties with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. His government has provided aid and drones to Ukraine and was instrumental in the UN-backed deal allowing Ukrainian grain ships access to global markets via the Black Sea. S-400s The Turkish decision to acquire S-400 air defense systems remains the thorniest issue for the U.S., said Howard Eissenstat, a nonresident scholar at the Middle East Institute. "That one's going to be really difficult to solve," he told VOA. Washington insists it won't allow Ankara back into its F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program until Ankara abandons the Russian-made weapons. Earlier this month, Turkish media reported that Ankara rejected the Biden administration's request for Turkey to send its S-400 air defense systems to Ukraine. Next week, Biden will host British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. The leaders are expected to discuss the issue of NATO enlargement, including how to get Ankara on board. "Those are good interlocutors for the president," Jeffrey said. "Those are people who understand the geostrategic situation in Europe." ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 31st May, 2023) The Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) today announced the winners of the inaugural Make in the Emirates Awards. The ceremony was held on the first day of the Make it in the Emirates Forum, which takes place from 31st May to 1st June and convenes key leaders, officials, and experts from manufacturing companies and financial institutions. The awards recognise excellence and innovation in the industrial sector, celebrating the pioneers, visionaries, national talents, and sustainability champions who are helping to drive the UAEs transformation towards becoming a global manufacturing hub. The event provides a unique opportunity for the manufacturing industry to come together and acknowledge the impact of its leaders on the UAEs growth and development. Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, honoured the winners in the presence of Mohamed bin Hadi Al Husseini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb AlMheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Sarah bint Yousif Al Amiri, Minister of State for Public education and Advanced Technology, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic. Government and executive leaders, private sector partners, financing bodies, investors, experts, and industry specialists also attended the awards, which comprised categories under four main umbrellas: Factories of the Future, Contribution to In-Country Value, Industrial Enablers, and Leadership & Talent. The awards are open to all industrial companies in the country, including manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. There are 10 categories including ICV Champion, ICV Excellence, Best Emiratisation Level in Manufacturing, Sustainable Manufacturing, Smart Manufacturer, Excellence in Innovation, Industrial Strategic Partner, Quality Standards, Young Talent of The Year Award, and Inspirational Leader. The Make it in the Emirates Awards support transformational projects and companies that contribute to raising the competitiveness of the industrial sector and promoting the adoption of advanced technologies and sustainable practices. By acknowledging and encouraging sustainability efforts among industrial companies, the awards also align with the objectives of Operation 300 billion and the UAEs Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative. ADNOC won the ICV Champion Award. ADNOC operates in various sectors and has grown continually over the years, venturing into new areas such as maritime transportation, chemical industries, and petrochemicals. Baker Hughes middle East won the ICV Excellence Award. Baker Hughes is a global industrial services company headquartered in Texas, USA, with its regional headquarters located in Dubai. It is one of the world's largest oilfield services companies, providing products and services for oil well drilling, production, and reservoir consulting. Emirates Steel Arkan, one of the largest steel producers in the Middle East, won the Best Emiratisation Level in Manufacturing Award. Established in 1998 and commencing production in 2001, Emirates Steel Arkan operates the largest integrated steel plant in the UAE. Emirates Global Aluminium, a leading global producer of premium aluminium, and the largest industrial company in the UAE outside the oil and gas sector, won the Sustainable Manufacturing Award. The company operates aluminium smelters in Jebel Ali and Al Taweelah, as well as an alumina refinery in Al Taweelah. The locally developed technologies deployed within the company are considered among the most efficient and competitive in the global aluminium industry. Lipton Jebel Ali, one of the world's largest tea factories, won the Smart Manufacturer Award. Benefiting from the UAE's strategic location and its proximity to major tea-producing countries, the factory has become one of the most successful industrial models, expanding its operations to become a global center for tea production. EDGE Group, a holding company for defense industries in the UAE, won the Excellence in Innovation Award. Edge Group produces armored vehicles, missiles, drones, weapons, and ammunition, utilising advanced technologies such as autonomous capabilities, internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and artificial intelligence. Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development won the Industrial Strategic Partner Award. The department is dedicated to following best practices and adopting well-researched strategic policies based on the latest local, regional, and global research and data. Its efforts aim to drive the progress and development of various sectors, aligning with Abu Dhabi's economic vision for 2030. Al Ain food & Beverages, a member of the Agthia Group, won the Quality Standards Award. Since its establishment in 1986, Al Ain Food & Beverages has been known as a leading national brand, delivering fresh F&B products of the highest quality. Maryam Hamad Hilal Al Kuwaiti, an engineer at Strata Manufacturing, won the Young Talent of the Year Award. She has been working as a Manufacturing Engineer at Strata since 2014. She holds a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the United Arab Emirates University, obtained in 2020, and a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the same university. Maryam also completed an eight-month training programme at Boeing Aircraft Manufacturing in Utah, USA, specialising in manufacturing vertical wing sections for the Boeing 787. Ismail Ali Abdulla, CEO of Strata, won the Inspirational Leader Award. Previously serving as the Executive Vice President of Strata, he holds a Master's degree in Project Management and a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology and Communications from Queen Mary University in London, UK. Strata has played a pivotal role in establishing the aerospace industry as one of the countrys most successful sectors. The company has also achieved an exemplary model for women empowerment in industry, with female citizens representing approximately 90 percent of the national workforce in Strata. The Make it in the Emirates Awards supports excellence and innovation alongside other projects and initiatives such as the National ICV Programme and Make it in the Emirates initiative, among others. Winners and finalists were evaluated based a set of criteria specific to each category. Nominations are judged by a panel of representatives from MoIAT, the University of Cambridge, IfM Engage, as well as industry experts and leaders. (@FahadShabbir) Braslia, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st May, 2023 ) :Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called for South American unity Tuesday as he hosted fellow leaders for a regional "retreat," but drew barbs for his warm welcome of Venezuelan socialist Nicolas Maduro. Veteran leftist Lula, who returned to office in January after leading Brazil from 2003 to 2010, is looking to strengthen diplomatic ties in a region where left-wing governments are newly back in style. But he faced criticism for hosting Maduro, a pariah in some quarters for his government's alleged human-rights violations and crackdown on political dissent -- a depiction Lula questioned Monday as a hostile "narrative." The issue exposed fissures at what was meant to be a display of South American diplomatic goodwill and cooperation. "I was surprised to hear what's happening in Venezuela described as a 'narrative,'" said Uruguay's center-right President Luis Lacalle Pou, who has labeled Maduro a "dictator." "The worst thing we can do is try to sweep that under the rug," he told the summit. "Human rights must be respected everywhere, always, no matter the political colors of the leader in power," said Chile's left-wing President Gabriel Boric. However, Boric backed the Venezuelan government's call for Washington and the European Union to lift sanctions on Maduro and his inner circle. Maduro responded by saying Chile and Uruguay "have one vision" and Venezuela, "another." "The most important thing is that there has been a debate," he said, announcing "a new stage" of South American integration. Lula defended Maduro, whose country he said was experiencing a period of "tranquility. " He had warmly welcomed Maduro to Brasilia Monday, reversing the policy of his far-right predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro (2019-2022), who had cut ties with Venezuela's socialist government and joined a US-led group of more than 50 countries in recognizing opposition leader Juan Guaido instead. Lula, who greeted Maduro with a hug, hailed it as a "new moment" in the countries' relations. Eleven of South America's 12 heads of state attended the Brasilia summit, the first of its kind in nearly a decade, which Lula said turned the page on an era of divisions. The only absence was Peruvian President Dina Boluarte. "We let ideology divide us and interrupt our efforts to integrate. We abandoned our channels of dialogue and our mechanisms of cooperation, and we all lost because of it," Lula said in his opening remarks. The 77-year-old took a jab at Bolsonaro, saying his predecessor -- who closely allied himself with US ex-president Donald Trump -- had "closed our doors to historic partners." This is the first summit of regional leaders since 2014 in Ecuador, at a gathering of UNASUR, a continental bloc launched in 2008 by Lula and Maduro's mentor, late Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez. That was the moment of Latin America's so-called "pink tide" of left-wing governments in the region. Now, some political analysts are talking of a "new pink tide" with the elections of Lula, Boric and Colombia's Gustavo Petro. Lula wants to get the region cooperating again. His government has touted projects such as a "Bi-Oceanic Corridor," a transportation artery to enable countries to ship goods across the continent overland instead of by sea. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Beirut, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st May, 2023 ) :Five fighters from a pro-Syrian Palestinian militant group were killed in an accidental explosion at a base in eastern Lebanon, a Lebanese security source said Wednesday. A spokesman for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine - General Command (PFLP-GC) instead accused Israel of carrying out "overnight raids" at the base in Qusaya, near the Syrian border. Israel denied any involvement. "An old rocket exploded in an arms depot on the base and five fighters were killed," the security source said, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media. Bogot, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st May, 2023 ) :The discovery of a rudimentary shelter, some half-eaten fruit and a fresh footprint led the Colombian military to announce Tuesday it was getting "very close" to the four Indigenous children roaming the Amazon since a plane they were on crashed a month ago. The children -- aged 13, nine, four and one -- have been lost in the jungle since the light aircraft crash in Colombia's southeast on May 1 claimed the lives of the three adults on board: their mother Magdalena Mucutui Valencia, the pilot, and an Indigenous leader. The bodies of the adults were found with the plane wreck, but a massive search by 160 soldiers and 70 Indigenous people with intimate knowledge of the jungle has been under way ever since for the youngsters -- Lesly (13), Soleiny (9), Tien Noriel (4) and baby Cristin. On Sunday, rescuers found the latest traces, which "confirm two things: the first that they are alive, and the second that we are very close," team leader General Pedro Sanchez told Blu Radio. The search area has been narrowed to about 20 square kilometers (7.7 square miles), said Sanchez, from an initial 320 square kilometers -- about double the size of Washington, DC. Judging by its size, the footprint found may belong to Lesly, whom relatives have said knows the jungle well. Unlike a sandal print found previously, the new trail indicates at least one of the children is now barefoot. Last week, the team had found a pair of shoes and a diaper in the dense jungle. Near the fresh print, the team on Sunday also found "a kind of resting place" or shelter. "The children probably used it for a night or two," said Sanchez. "At some point we crossed paths (with the children)," he added. Search team member Colonel Fausto Avellaneda said the latest finds "gives us new motivation and excitement." "This is a fresh footprint found approximately two kilometers from the last footprint we had found, and it gives us a sign that the children are still alive," he said in a video distributed by the military. - No adult prints - On the morning of May 1, a Cessna 206 airplane left a jungle area known as Araracuara heading for the town of San Jose del Guaviare in the Colombian Amazon. Minutes after starting the 350-kilometer (217-mile) journey, the pilot reported problems with the engine and the plane disappeared from radars. Between May 15 and 16, soldiers found the bodies of the three adults and the debris of the plane stuck vertically in the thick vegetation, its nose destroyed. The air force has since dumped 10,000 flyers into the forest with instructions in Spanish and the children's own Indigenous language, telling them to stay put. The leaflets also included survival tips, and the military has dropped food parcels and bottled water for the children who are of the Huitoto community, known for living in harmony with the jungle. Huitoto children learn hunting, fishing and gathering and the kids' grandfather, Fidencio Valencia, has told AFP the children are well acquainted with the jungle. Rescuers have been broadcasting a message recorded by the children's grandmother, urging them not to move so the soldiers can find them. Air force helicopters and satellite images are being used in the search in an area home to jaguars, pumas, snakes and other predators, as well as armed groups that smuggle drugs and terrorize local populations. According to Sanchez, the minors and their mother had boarded the plane to escape guerrilla activity near their community. But he said it was "unlikely" the kids had fallen into the hands of any armed group. "We have not found any adult prints."Sanchez said the search was complicated by "a totally jungle terrain where you can see nothing 20 meters ahead, trees 40-50 meters (tall)... where the rays of the Sun enter with great difficulty."It rained about 16 hours per day, erasing any tracks and muffling the sound of movement, he added. Washington, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st May, 2023 ) :The United States "strongly condemns" North Korea's claimed launch of a military spy satellite, which "raises tensions," the White House said in a statement Tuesday. The launch, which triggered warning alerts in Japan and South Korea, "involved technologies that are directly related" to North Korea's missile program, the statement from National Security Council spokesman Adam Hodge said. The launch "risks destabilizing the security situation in the region and beyond," Hodge added. QUETTA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st May, 2023 ) :Health Secretary of Balochistan Asfandyar Kakar has reiterated the government's resolve to improve the healthcare system and provide the best health facilities at the doorstep of the people. He was addressing a meeting of the officers of the health department soon after taking charge of the office here on Wednesday. Additional Secretary of health Dawood Bazai, deputy secretaries, and sections officers of the health department attended the meeting, said a statement issued by the health department. Secretary Health Isfandyar Kakar said, "Any individual who comes to the health department shall be respected." "Administrative powers of the health offices will be trickled down to the lower level to make the district health committee including DG Health, DHOs, MS more effective," he said adding that reforms in health department will help improve health care in the province."The health secretary further said, "The hospital system will be improved through public-private partnership and special measures will be taken to regulate private hospitals." WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 31st May, 2023) The United States "strongly condemns" North Korea's latest space launch, US President Joe Biden and his security team are assessing the situation, White House National Security Council Spokesperson Adam Hodge said Tuesday. "The United States strongly condemns the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) for its launch using ballistic missile technology, which is a brazen violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions, raises tensions, and risks destabilizing the security situation in the region and beyond. This claimed space launch involved technologies that are directly related to the DPRK intercontinental ballistic missile program. The President and his national security team are assessing the situation in close coordination with our allies and partners," Hodge said in a statement. Hodge added that Washington urges "all countries to condemn this launch and call on the DPRK to come to the table for serious negotiations." "The door has not closed on diplomacy but Pyongyang must immediately cease its provocative actions and instead choose engagement. The United States will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the American homeland and the defense of our Republic of Korea (South Korea) and Japanese allies," he said. (@ChaudhryMAli88) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has laid out "some ideas" to the parties of the Black Sea grain deal regarding how to unlock Russia's ammonia exports, spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Wednesday WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 31st May, 2023) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has laid out "some ideas" to the parties of the Black Sea grain deal regarding how to unlock Russia's ammonia exports, spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Wednesday. "The Secretary-General has put forward some ideas to the parties to improve the facilitation of the work of the Joint Coordination Center to also work on the issue of ammonia export, which is part of the deal that was signed," Dujarric told reporters. The remarks were in response to media reports that the UN has proposed that the grain deal signatories start preparatory work for the transit of Russian ammonia through Ukraine. Dujarric pointed out that "conversations and contacts are ongoing" but declined to go into details. Reuters reported earlier in the day, citing a source, that the UN also plans to hold parallel talks on widening the Black Sea deal to include more Ukrainian ports and other cargoes. Ukraine and Turkey agreed with the initiative, but Russia has not yet responded, the report said. In mid-May, the grain deal was extended until July 17 without any changes. The Russian Foreign Ministry has warned that if the problematic issues with the deal, including Moscow's demand to reconnect the Russian Agricultural Bank to the SWIFT system, are not addressed within two months, the deal will be terminated after July 17. Guterres said last week that the parties continue to discuss outstanding issues related to the grain deal. KHARTOUM (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 31st May, 2023) A delegation from the Sudanese regular armed forces has suspended its participation in negotiations with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Jeddah, a high-ranking Sudanese military source told Sputnik on Wednesday. On Monday, the Sudanese rivals extended a ceasefire for another five days. At the same time, the parties continue to accuse each other of violating the ceasefire. "A delegation of the Sudanese armed forces has suspended talks with the Rapid Support Forces mediated by the United States and Saudi Arabia in Jeddah," the source said. WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 31st May, 2023) The United States condemns the recent violence against NATO-led KFOR troops in Kosovo and Metohija and calls on Prishtina and Belgrade to de-escalate tensions and refrain from further violence, the US State Department said. "We call on all parties to take immediate actions to de-escalate tensions. The United States condemns the unacceptable violence yesterday against NATO-led KFOR troops, law enforcement and journalists," the State Department said in a press release on Tuesday. The release also calls on Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti to withdraw the police forces from the areas in the north of Kosovo and Metohija where violence took place. It also urges Serbian President Alexsander Vucic to lower the security status of the Serbian military and limit further challenges to KFOR in areas where Serbs are protesting ethnic Albanian mayors forcefully taking office in Serb-majority areas of Kosovo and Metohija. "Prime Minister Kurti and his government should ensure that elected mayors carry out their transitional duties from alternate locations outside municipal buildings and withdraw police forces from the vicinity," the release said. On Monday, hundreds of Serbs gathered outside local administration buildings in the municipalities of Zvecan, Leposavic and Zubin Potok, demanding the withdrawal of police and the removal of ethnic Albanian mayors, who took office and displaced the Serbian flags. Troops from the KFOR mission equipped with crowd dispersal devices were also deployed in an apparent attempt to intimidate the protesters. The Kosovo police, consisting of Albanians, used tear gas to break up the protests and escort the mayors into the town halls. A specialist inspects the damaged facade of a multistory apartment building after a reported drone attack in Moscow on May 30, 2023. A rare drone attack jolted Moscow early Tuesday, causing only light damage but forcing evacuations as residential buildings were struck in the Russian capital for the first time in the war against Ukraine. The Kremlin, meanwhile, pursued its relentless bombardment of Kyiv with a third assault on the city in 24 hours. The Russian Defense Ministry said five drones were shot down in Moscow and the systems of three others were jammed, causing them to veer off course. President Vladimir Putin called it a terrorist act by Kyiv. The attack, causing only what Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin called insignificant damage to several buildings, brought the war home to civilians in Russias capital. Two people received treatment for unspecified injuries but did not need hospitalization, he said in a Telegram post, adding that residents of two high-rise buildings damaged in the attack were evacuated. Andrei Vorobyov, governor of the wider Moscow region, said some of the drones were shot down on the approach to Moscow. Ukraine made no direct comment on the attack, which would be one of its deepest and most daring strikes into Russia since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than 15 months ago. Putin said Moscows air defense worked in a satisfactory way, but added it is clear that our task is to plug the gaps in the system. The Kyiv regime... attempts to intimidate Russian citizens and strikes at civilian buildings, he said at a public event, responding to a question from the head of a Kremlin-allied think tank. It is, of course, a clear indication of terrorist activity. Asked by The Associated Press whether there is high-level concern that the invasion of Ukraine is endangering Russian civilians, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said only that attacks on Russia reinforce the need to prosecute the war. Russian political analyst Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said the Kremlins policy is to play down the attacks. You ask, why is Putin behaving like this, does he really not understand and fear the consequences? she wrote in a Telegram post. Apparently he isnt afraid, and everything is built on the idea that has been voiced more than once about a patient people who will understand everything and endure everything. Still, the attacks raised questions about the effectiveness of Russias air defenses. A senior Russian lawmaker, Andrei Kartapolov, told Russian business news site RBC that we have a very big country and there will always be a loophole where the drone can fly around the areas where air defense systems are located. Kartapolov said the purpose of the attacks was to unnerve the Russian people. Its an intimidation act aimed at the civilian population, RBC quoted him as saying. Its designed to create a wave of panic. Moscow residents reported hearing explosions before dawn. Police were seen working at one site of a crashed drone in southwest Moscow. An area near a residential building was fenced off, and police put the drone debris in a cardboard box before carrying it away. At another site, apartment windows were shattered and there were scorch marks on the buildings front. It was the second reported attack on Moscow. Russian authorities said two drones targeted the Kremlin on May 3 in what they portrayed as an attempt on Putins life. Ukraine denied it was behind that attack. Last week, the Russian border region of Belgorod was the target of one of the most serious cross-border raids since the war began, with two far-right pro-Ukrainian paramilitary groups claiming responsibility. Officials in the southern Russian city of Krasnodar near annexed Crimea said two drones struck there on Friday, damaging residential buildings. Other drones have reportedly flown deep into Russia multiple times. In December, Russia claimed it had shot down drones at airfields in the Saratov and Ryazan regions in western Russia. Three soldiers were reported killed in the attack in Saratov, which targeted an important military airfield. Before that, Russia reported downing a drone that targeted the headquarters of its Black Sea Fleet in the Crimean port of Sevastopol. In Ukraine, Russia launched a pre-dawn air raid on Kyiv, killing at least one person, wounding 11 others and sending the capitals residents again scrambling into shelters. Ukrainian military analysts, though unable to confirm that Kyiv had launched the drones against Moscow, said the attack may have involved UJ-22 drones with a maximum range of about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) and are produced in Ukraine. Analyst Oleh Zhdanov said some UJ-22s are capable of reaching Moscow and beyond, although he noted they can fly only half as far and carry half the payload of the Iranian-made Shahed drones used in the war by Russia. Even so, Zhdanov told AP that the myth has been dispelled of the Russian capitals invulnerability. Since February, when a UJ-22 crashed 100 kilometers (60 miles) from Moscow, Ukrainian drones repeatedly have repeatedly approached the Russian capital. At least 20 Shahed drones were destroyed by air defense forces in Kyivs airspace in Russias latest attack on the Ukrainian capital. Overall, Ukraine shot down 29 of 31 drones, most of them in the Kyiv area, the air force said. Before daylight, the buzzing of drones could be heard over the city, followed by loud explosions as they were taken down by air defense systems. The heavier destruction in Kyiv contrasted with what was seen in Moscow in the aftermath of the strikes. In the Ukrainian capital, burned-out cars, glass and debris littered the street outside a building where apartments were wrecked; in Moscow, only a few broken windows and scorched outer walls were evident, with repairs and repainting being done quickly to the affected buildings. A woman who was killed in Kyivs Holosiiv district died after she had come out onto her balcony to look at drones being shot down, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post. A high-rise building in the same district caught fire after being hit by debris either from from drones being hit or interceptor missiles. The buildings upper two floors were destroyed, and people were feared to be under the rubble, the Kyiv Military Administration said. More than 20 people were evacuated. Resident Valeriya Oreshko told AP that even though the immediate threat was over, the attacks had everyone on edge. You are happy that you are alive, but think about what will happen next, the 39-year-old said. A resident who gave only her first name, Oksana, said the whole building shook when it was hit. Go to shelters, because you really do not know where (the drone) will fly, she advised others. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition (@FahadShabbir) WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 31st May, 2023) The United States is giving Ukraine "a kind of license" to continue clashes with Russia by publicly ignoring the recent drone attacks on Moscow, Russian Ambassador to Washington Anatoly Antonov said. "The only thing that pseudo-politicians in Ukraine take into account is the position of the West, led by the United States. Silence and ignoring the atrocities by the thugs with yellow-blue chevrons is a kind of license for the Nazis to continue their futile confrontation with the Russian Armed Forces," Antonov told reporters. He said Washington's statements about the recent drone attack on Moscow actually encourage terrorists. "We have taken note of Washington's statements regarding the terrorist attack in Moscow involving drones. In fact, they sound like an encouragement for Ukrainian terrorists. Just consider the U.S. officials' attempts to hide behind the phrase that they are gathering information about what happened!" Antonov said. "And then they immediately switch to a media attack against our country. So really, doesn't the administration understand that no one believes their slogans about non-support of Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory?! Especially, when these words are pronounced somehow bashfully and hesitantly," he said. In 2022, the U.S. Department of States Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs named UTSA a Fulbright Hispanic Serving Institution Leader, which recognized the universitys noteworthy participation across Fulbright programs for students, faculty and administrators. Participation across Fulbright programs has steadily grown at UTSA since 2019. The UTSA Office of Nationally Competitive Awards advises students in spring and summer ahead of the September 1 deadline. Director of the Office of Nationally Competitive Awards and Fulbright Program Advisor, Andrew Chapman, encourages more students to consider Fulbright. In the past four years, UTSA students have shown that they can win these awards, said Chapman. Our students consistently demonstrate the value of their education from UTSA, which might include outside-of-the-classroom experiences like study abroad and service learning in their local communities. When paired together with life experience that many of our students have growing up in bilingual, multicultural communities, they are absolutely ready to participate in a program like Fulbright. Paula Canales 18, M.A. 22, M.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language Fulbright English teaching assistant award in Bahrain Canales is a two-time graduate of UTSA where she most recently earned her masters degree in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), an interdisciplinary program in the College of Education and Human Development that prepares students to teach English to children or adults in schools and community programs. Canales taught English through Woodland Baptist Churchs ESL program. Having formed close relationships at UTSA with international students from the Persian Gulf, she chose Bahrain as her destination for her Fulbright. After completing Fulbright work, she hopes to enter a doctoral program to research developing practices that benefit and advocate for refugee populations in the United States. Madeline Morales 23, B.S. in environmental science Fulbright study award in Sweden A member of the UTSA Top Scholar program within the Honors College, Morales is interested in how Sweden serves as a model for progressive sustainable policies and practices. She will travel to Sweden to study and conduct research at Umea University. As a UTSA student, Morales worked in the Office of Sustainability and served as Sustainability Council Student Representative. She cofounded a student-led climate change action group at UTSA, Plant the Future, which has planted hundreds of trees throughout San Antonio. She also took part in the National Hispanic Environmental Council STEM Institute, which included a 10-day research trip in New Mexico for underrepresented students in Environmental Science. Eliesha Perez 23, B.A. in Global Affairs Fulbright English teaching assistant award in Thailand Perez is an Honors College student who has dedicated her efforts to several service projects in San Antonio and Dallas communities over the last three years. She volunteered for two summers with AmeriCorps at Heart House in Dallas, an education non-profit serving refugee children. She also created a pen-pals program that linked students from Edgewood ISD to UTSA students so that they could learn about pathways to college. Perez hopes that spending almost a year in Thailand will prepare her for a career working at a non-profit organization that focuses on international development and disadvantaged youth education. Amnesty International says it has heard from a Uyghur student it said had been missing after arriving in Hong Kong earlier this month. The human rights group issued a statement last week saying Abuduwaili Abudureheman had not been heard from after traveling to Hong Kong from South Korea on May 10 to visit a friend. Amnesty said Abudureheman texted a friend telling him he was being interrogated by Chinese police after arriving in Hong Kong. Amnesty demanded authorities in Hong Kong reveal Abudurehemans whereabouts, citing fears he had been extradited to mainland China without due process and is at risk of arbitrary detention and torture. The organization Tuesday issued a correction of its original statement saying Abudureheman contacted them and told them he did not travel to Hong Kong and that it was pleased he was accounted for. Hong Kong authorities issued a statement Saturday calling Amnestys allegations groundless and unfounded and that it slandered the human rights situation in the Chinese city. China has been accused by international human rights groups and Western nations of detaining millions of ethnic Uyghur Muslims and other minorities in the remote northwest region of Xinjiang, subjecting them to torture, forced sterilization and forced labor. The United States has formally labeled the Chinese governments actions in Xinjiang as genocide. Amnesty said in its correction that it will continue to monitor and document the grave human rights situation for Uyghurs in mainland China and overseas, as well as the human rights situation in Hong Kong, which has deteriorated rapidly since the introduction of the National Security Law in 2020. Aiming to secure support for Sweden's bid to join NATO, U.S. President Joe Biden signaled a transactional approach in his engagement with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The newly reelected Turkish leader has been one of the most consequential yet complicated members of the transatlantic military alliance. Biden spoke with Erdogan on Monday to congratulate him on winning his third presidential term and said the two had discussed the issue of Sweden's NATO accession and Turkey's request to overhaul and expand its fleet of American-made F-16 fighter jets. "He still wants to work on something on the F-16s. I told him we wanted a deal with Sweden, so let's get that done. And so, we'll be back in touch with one another," Biden said, adding that they will talk more about it "next week." This is the first time Biden has linked the two issues together. Neither the White House nor the Turkish government mentioned the potential F-16 sale in their readout of the call. U.S. administration officials have repeatedly rejected suggestions of a quid pro quo between the transatlantic military alliance's expansion and a weapons sale. "That's not a condition," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated during her press briefing Tuesday. "President Biden has long been clear that he supports selling F-16s." On Tuesday, during a joint news conference with Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Lulea, Sweden, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that both issues "should go forward as quickly as possible." In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Finland and Sweden applied for NATO membership in May 2022. The bids, which must be approved by all NATO members, were held up by objections from Turkey and Hungary though Finland's bid was finally approved in April. F-16s Ankara has long sought to purchase 40 F-16 fighter jets made by U.S. company Lockheed Martin and nearly 80 modernization kits for its air force's existing warplanes a $20 billion transaction. The F-16 jets make up the bulk of Turkey's combat aircraft after the Trump administration in 2019 expelled Ankara from the fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet program over its decision to acquire Russian-made S-400 air defense systems. The U.S. Congress, which has authority to block major weapons sales, objects to F-16 sales for reasons beyond NATO enlargement. It wants Ankara to ease tensions with Greece, refrain from invading northern Syria and enforce sanctions against Russia for its war on Ukraine. In April, about two weeks after Turkey ratified its support for Finland joining NATO, Washington approved a $259 million sale of avionics software upgrades for Ankara's current fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft. But Sweden's bid is still held up because Ankara believes that Stockholm is harboring "terrorists" militants from the banned Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which took up arms against the Turkish state in 1984. Swedish lawmakers have passed legislation tightening the country's anti-terrorism laws, a move expected to help persuade Turkey. U.S. and Swedish officials have expressed hope that Sweden's membership will be confirmed by the time NATO leaders meet in Vilnius, Lithuania, in mid-July. While Erdogan is likely to leverage his support for Sweden, he is also a pragmatist, said Asli Aydintasbas, a Turkish journalist and visiting fellow in the Center on the United States and Europe at Brookings. "What we are going to see is a bit of a last-minute drama heading up to the Vilnius summit," Aydntasbas told VOA. "At the end, it's possible that this will be resolved on the night of the summit." Fraught relations F-16s aside, U.S.-Turkish ties will remain fraught, said James Jeffrey, a former U.S. ambassador to Turkey, who now chairs the Middle East program at the Wilson Center. "It's a complicated, transactional relationship," Jeffrey told VOA. "It's never 100% on our side. We're hoping it won't be more than 50% away from us, but a lot depends on the personal relationship between Biden and Erdogan. It's been frosty; the call is a good first step." Solid ties with Ankara will be "dramatically strategic in terms of containing Russia," as well as containing Iran and terrorist movements in the region all key goals for Washington, Jeffrey added. However, Erdogan's friendly ties with Russian leader Vladimir Putin while NATO helps Ukraine to fend off a Russian invasion have made Western officials uneasy. "We are not bound by the West's sanctions," Erdogan said in a CNN interview earlier this month. "We are a strong state, and we have a positive relationship with Russia." Ankara has calibrated its response to the war in Ukraine consistent with its own strategic interests, condemning the invasion and restricting Russian warships and military flights across its territory while refusing to join Western sanctions on Russia and expanding its trade ties with Moscow. At the same time Erdogan has maintained good ties with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. His government has provided aid and drones to Ukraine and was instrumental in the U.N.-backed deal allowing Ukrainian grain ships access to global markets via the Black Sea. S-400s The Turkish decision to acquire S-400 air defense systems remains the thorniest issue for the U.S., said Howard Eissenstat, a nonresident scholar at the Middle East Institute. "That one's going to be really difficult to solve," he told VOA. Washington insists it won't allow Ankara back into its F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program until Ankara abandons the Russian-made weapons. Earlier this month, Turkish media reported that Ankara rejected the Biden administration's request for Turkey to send its S-400 air defense systems to Ukraine. Next week, Biden will host British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. The leaders are expected to discuss the issue of NATO enlargement, including how to get Ankara on board. "Those are good interlocutors for the president," Jeffrey said. "Those are people who understand the geostrategic situation in Europe." Anita Powell contributed to this report. An operator pushes a Ukrainian-made UJ-22 Airborne drone, a model Russian media say was used in the drone attack on Moscow on May 30. A new weapon has appeared in the aerial war over Ukraine and Russia. A model of drone with its stabilizers located on the front of the unmanned aircraft has attracted attention after an attack launched on Tuesday in the southwest of Moscow, near the official residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin in Novo-Ogariovo. According to experts, the drones could have taken off from Ukraine, as these models have a range of between 800 and 1,000 kilometers (500-620 miles) and can evade anti-aircraft defenses due to their ability to fly at very low altitude. The shortest distance in a straight line between Ukrainian territory and the Russian capital is about 560 kilometers (350 miles). Although the attack only caused light damage to two buildings, in the wake of the attack on the Kremlin on May 3, tensions have been heightened among Muscovites. The drones flew over the Moscow region in broad daylight and at low altitude, just a few dozen meters above the ground. In a video released by eyewitnesses, a camouflaged anti-aircraft system near a highway was firing at the drones while cars were passing by in the middle of rush hour. Another recording went viral in which a light aircraft was mistaken for one of Kyivs most-used drones, the UJ-22 Airborne, which was developed and manufactured by Ukrainian company Ukrjet. Two days before the Moscow attack, Russian state television had been questioning how drones of this type could evade its air defenses. State Duma deputy Andrey Gurulyov, a retired Lieutenant General, said during an interview on one of Russias flagship state television talk shows, Evening with Vladimir Solovyov, that the countrys anti-aircraft systems are designed to act against ballistic missiles and other weapons capable of carrying large explosive charges. Gurulyov said that drones such as those used in Tuesdays attacks had different specifications and characteristics than conventional missiles, and the Russian Federation did not have the means to stop them. He also urged Russian oil companies and other strategic enterprises to arm their facilities with electronic warfare devices, such as jammers, to knock out drones. Our Armed Forces cannot protect all critical infrastructure, he added. A flying object explodes near the dome of the Kremlin Senate building in Moscow, Russia, in this image taken from video obtained by Reuters on May 3, 2023. OSTOROZHNO NOVOSTI (via REUTERS) Experts divided on drones used in Moscow attack As soon as the attack was reported, speculation began. Until now, most drone attacks, including the one that targeted the Kremlin, had been attributed to the UJ-22 Airborne, on which the stabilizers are located on the tail of the aircraft. However, Russian military correspondents pointed out that the videos captured on Tuesday featured a drone with a duck-like appearance. It resembles the Israeli IAI Harop kamikaze drones, which have a range of up to 1,000 kilometers, said Alexander Kots, one of Russias most influential military bloggers. Kots identification was backed by Alexei Rogozin, head of the Russian Center for the Development of Transport Technologies and an aviation expert, who said in an interview with Ria Novosti that the structure of the aircraft helps to increase its payload capacity. According to Russian media outlet Shot, the authorities have found KZ-6 hollow charges among the recovered wreckage of these types of drones. These high-explosive charges, which weigh around three kilograms (6.6 pounds), are capable of penetrating half a meter of concrete and, according to the Ukraine Weapons Tracker, Russia also deploys them in its own drones. Another possibility was that the drones were Ukrainian A-2 Synitsas known as the coal bird, and whose blue and yellow tail plumage is reminiscent of the Ukrainian flag. However, the dimensions of this type of drone and its limited range meant that to have been involved in the attacks, it would have needed to be transported into Russian territory and deployed in the Moscow area. According to Russian media, UJ-22s were identified among the wave of drones launched on Tuesday. These unmanned aerial devices have been widely employed by Ukrainian forces in their attacks inside Russian territory. Ukrjet, which is headquartered in Kyiv, describes the UJ-22 as a multi-purpose unmanned aircraft system that is able to fly at any time of day and season, in visual and adverse weather conditions, in situation of electronic countermeasures. The UJ-22 Airborne is capable of evading the minimum radar height by flying at an altitude of 50 meters and can carry up to 20 kilograms of explosives. The aircraft reaches a maximum speed of 160 kilometers per hour (110 mph) and has an autonomous action radius of 800 kilometers (550 miles), although its ground crew can control it up to a distance of 100 kilometers (62 miles). Following the attacks, the head of the Wagner Group mercenary army, Yevgeny Prigozhin, once again launched a tirade against the Russian Defense Ministry: Filthy bastards, what are you doing? You assholes! Get your ass out of the offices youve been put in to defend this country, the paramilitary leader reportedly said. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition As many as 1.5 million Syrian refugees have fled death and destruction engulfing their homeland by crossing into Lebanon. Their presence has drawn more hostility from Lebanese since the countrys economic crisis came to a head in 2019. While observers blame the political elite for years of corruption and mismanagement and for now impoverishing most of the population with its policies, the same political class is scapegoating the refugees to deflect from its own responsibilities, said Lebanese analyst Dania Koleilat Khatib. The governing apparatus includes the Iran-backed Hezbollah political party and its onetime ally, former President Michel Aoun, and his Free Patriotic Movement. How can they divert this anger? They divert it to the refugees," Khatib said. "The narrative that is so populist against the refugees is mainly coming from Hezbollah, the Aoun people: They are costing so much, they are causing trouble, they are a burden on the economy and they have to go. But the U.N. is supporting the education system because they want these refugee kids to go to school. The aid that is coming is also aiding host communities. Observers argue there is a false impression that Lebanese must compete with Syrians for resources and that refugees get lots of money from relief organizations. Khatib, president of the Research Center for Cooperation and Peace Building in Beirut, told VOA that Lebanese politicians may be using the refugee situation as a pawn. She characterized governing authorities' position as: If the international community doesnt do what we want, if you put sanctions on us, we will create a problem for these people knowing they cant go to [Syrian President Bashar al-) Assad. Observers note that Syrian refugees face dire living conditions in Lebanon and although many would like to leave, they fear returning home because of retribution by Assads leadership, which considers them traitors. Meanwhile, rights groups reported in recent weeks an increase in anti-refugee rhetoric from Lebanese politicians. They allege such misinformation contributes to violence and discrimination against Syrian refugees. Ramzi Kaiss, the Lebanon researcher at Human Rights Watch, told Abu Dhabis The National newspaper that an alarming rise in anti-refugee rhetoric has accompanied forced deportations, which he believes is part of the strategy to create a coercive environment in order to get refugees to leave the country. The Access Center for Human Rights in Beirut says that the military recently conducted many raids to apprehend and deport 336 Syrian refugees who entered the country irregularly. The center is a nongovernmental organization monitoring conditions of Syrian refugees in Lebanon. Lebanese analyst Khatib told VOA that international refugee law requires a voluntary, safe and dignified return of all refugees. Officials in northern Cameroon have in a crisis meeting on Wednesday requested more troops from Cameroon, Nigeria and Chad to be deployed to their common border after fresh Boko Haran attacks killed at least 12 people including six soldiers on Tuesday. The officials say several hundred heavily armed Islamist extremists have infiltrated the volatile Lake Chad region attacking, looting and causing panic. Cameroon military and government officials in the central African states northern border with Nigeria say they held a crisis meeting on Wednesday, less than 24 hours after a fresh wave of deadly Boko Haram attacks were reported. Midjiyawa Bakari is the governor of Cameroon's Far North region that shares a border with Chad and Nigeria. Bakari spoke on Cameroon state broadcaster CRTV on Wednesday. Bakari said Cameroonian President Paul Biya ordered officials and troops in Cameroon's Far North region to hold an emergency crisis meeting and make sure armed Islamist extremists who infiltrate the volatile Lake Chad region are stopped. He said Biya ordered the crisis meeting after several hundred militants killed three soldiers, two customs officers and two civilians in surprise attacks on Cameroon government troops stationed in the northern towns of Mora and Zigague on Tuesday. Mora and Zigague are towns in Cameroon's Far North region that share a border with Nigeria and Chad. Bakari said Boko Haram is weakened but still very actively attacking communities to kill their opponents and to steal cattle, food and money. The Cameroon military on Wednesday said troops found five other civilian corpses in the bush near Zigague and several dozen houses and government buildings were destroyed by the insurgents. Military officials say soldiers killed several insurgents along the border with Nigeria and Chad but gave no details. Government officials say villagers who escaped to the bush should return and be protected by the Cameroon military. Bakari said civilians should help stop the new wave of attacks by reporting suspected militants to military officials. He said local chiefs and community leaders should reactivate militias to assist government troops in fighting the militants. Hamidou Aladji is a community leader in Mora. He said Tuesday's attack on civilians and government troops in Mora indicate that Boko Haram is still a nuisance with an ability to create surprises. He said while the military is protecting civilians, it is imperative for community leaders and the clergy to assist in stopping or reducing terrorist attacks by reporting strangers in their communities to the military. The Cameroon government says Boko Haram fighters crossed into the central African state from Nigeria in large numbers on Sunday and Monday evening before carrying out the attacks. Military officials say the vast Lake Chad basin that stretches across the borders of Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon and Chad is infiltrated by the militants who want to reestablish bases on the lake's many small islands. In June 2022, the Multinational National Joint Task Force of the Lake Chad Basin said 3,000 troops it deployed killed more than 800 extremists in about two months of fighting in the volatile Lake Chad region. The force is made up of 11,000 troops from Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon and Chad. Officials at the crisis meeting ordered by President Paul Biya on Wednesday in Maroua, the capital of Cameroon's Far North region, requested that troops from Cameroon, Nigeria and Chad be deployed to stop militants from reconstituting groups and advancing. VOA could not independently verify if Chad and Nigeria have agreed to deploy troops to the three nations common border. Boko Haram attacks escalated in northern Nigeria in 2009 before spreading to neighboring countries. The United Nations says more than 36,000 people have been killed, mainly in Nigeria, and three million have fled their homes. Intense clashes could be heard in Sudan's capital on Tuesday, residents said, after military factions battling for more than six weeks agreed to extend a cease-fire aimed at allowing aid to reach civilians. The army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) agreed to extend a week-long cease-fire deal by five days just before it was due to expire late on Monday. The truce was brokered and is being remotely monitored by Saudi Arabia and the United States, which say it has been violated by both sides but has still allowed for the delivery of aid to an estimated 2 million people. "We hope this truce succeeds even if only to stop the war a little and that we can return to our normal lives. We have hope in the truce, and we don't have other options," said Hind Saber, a 53-year-old resident of Khartoum. Hours before the cease-fire extension was signed, residents reported intensive fighting in all three of the adjoining cities that make up Sudan's greater capital around the confluence of the Nile: Khartoum, Omdurman and Bahri. Clashes resumed late on Tuesday on the outskirts of the cities. In a statement, the RSF accused the army of violating the cease-fire, saying that it defended itself against an attack and took over an army base. The war has caused nearly 1.4 million people to flee their homes, including more than 350,000 who have crossed into neighboring countries. Areas of the capital have been hit by widespread looting and frequent cuts to power and water supplies. Most hospitals have been put out of service. The United Nations, some aid agencies, embassies and parts of Sudan's central government have moved operations to Port Sudan, in Sudan's Red Sea state, the main shipping hub, which has seen little unrest. Curfew declared in Port Sudan On Tuesday, the state's security committee said it had caught several "rebellious" sleeper cells that it said had sneaked in from outside and warned that they were planning activities. "We thank the citizens of Red Sea state for their total cooperation and for immediately reporting the presence of these rebellious elements and their agents within their neighborhoods," it said, without specifying their identity. The committee later extended a state of emergency and declared a curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. in Port Sudan. The conflict erupted on April 15 over internationally backed plans for a transition to elections under a civilian government. Leaders of the army and the RSF had held the top positions on Sudan's ruling council since former leader Omar al-Bashir was toppled during a popular uprising in 2019. They staged a coup in 2021 as they were due to hand leadership of the council to civilians, before falling out over the chain of command and restructuring of the RSF under the planned transition. Army leader General Abdel-Fattah Burhan appeared in a video on Tuesday greeting troops. He said that the army had agreed to the cease-fire extension to ease citizens' access to services. "The army hasn't used its full deadly power, but it will be forced to do so if the enemy does not obey or listen to the voice of reason," he said in a statement. Millions need humanitarian aid The United Nations children's agency UNICEF said more than 13.6 million children in Sudan, a country of 49 million people, were in urgent need of lifesaving humanitarian support. The U.N. World Food Program, which expects up to 2.5 million people in Sudan to slip into hunger in coming months, said that 17,000 metric tons of food had been looted since the conflict began. WFP said on Monday that it had begun to distribute food in parts of the capital for the first time since the outbreak of fighting. U.N. human rights chief Volker Turk warned on Tuesday that fighting in Khartoum, which has spread to the war-weary Darfur region, could take on an "inter-ethnic dimension, which would be terrible." A top USAID official in Zimbabwe says the agency will continue providing aid to people of the southern African nation, despite Harare summoning the top U.S. diplomat in the country. The government called in Elaine French, charge d'affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Harare, on Tuesday to protest advertisements posted on social media urging citizens to vote and cast their ballots peacefully. A Zimbabwean official said the ads bordered on illegal activism. Ramses Gauthier, the charge d'affaires at the U.S. Agency for International Development in Zimbabwe, said his organization will not stop aiding people in the country despite the government's actions. "Our commitment is toward Zimbabwean people, and it's a longstanding one," Gauthier said. "We have been standing by the Zimbabwean people since 1980, and we have invested billions of dollars. We may have disagreements, but we are not enemies, and Zimbabwean people are our friends. So, whatever we do, we do it with a sentiment of friendship toward the Zimbabwean people. And disagreement or not, we will continue to stand by the Zimbabwean people." Late Tuesday, Zimbabwe's acting secretary for foreign affairs, Rofina Chikava, summoned French to protest several advertisements shared on social media this month by the U.S. Embassy. Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman Livit Mugejo singled out one Twitter message that said, "Register to vote and make sure your voice is heard." Mugejo said that in the meeting with French, Chikava expressed concern that the social media posts bordered "on activism and meddling in Zimbabwe's internal affairs" and were unacceptable, as they deviated from conventional diplomatic norms. Meg Riggs, the spokeswoman for the U S. Embassy, defended the ads. "We stand by our recent social media posts calling for peace during the election season. These neutral apolitical messages feature the work of Zimbabwean artists who wanted to engage their fellow youths on the importance of peace during an electoral process," Riggs said. "Elections are a fundamental part of a functioning democracy. All Zimbabweans deserve this chance to choose their future safely." Riggs added that the United States does not back any political candidate or party in Zimbabwe, but strongly supports a peaceful and transparent election process "that reflects the will of the people of Zimbabwe." Alexander Rusero, who heads the International Relations Studies Department at Africa University in Zimbabwe, said President Emmerson Mnangagwa was justified in summoning the U.S. diplomat. "At times, the United States of America and its embassy, they should desist from acting as if they are political actors," Rusero said. "There is need for rationality in handling Zimbabwe issues, because what the United States did in terms of that tweet, it's outside the parameters of what diplomacy and diplomats should do." But Lovemore Madhuku, a law professor at the University of Zimbabwe, disagreed. "The U.S. Embassy, whatever it is doing, cannot be said to be a serious interference with the electoral processes," Madhuku said. "There is a lot of misunderstanding of the role of foreign embassies. If they encourage people to register to vote or encourage people to vote without saying, 'Vote for so and so,' it cannot be wrong." Madhuku said there is no reason Zimbabwe's government should be uncomfortable with an open electoral playing field. More than 40 European leaders plan to meet in Moldova on Thursday in a show of support for the former Soviet republic and neighboring Ukraine as Kyiv prepares to launch a counteroffensive against occupying Russian forces. The gathering of the EU's 27 member states and 20 other European countries at a castle deep in Moldovan wine country will touch on a range of strategic issues and launch a new EU partnership mission in the country. But the focus will be on a symbolic show of unity on Ukraine's doorstep. "If you sit in Moscow and see 47 countries in your immediate or close neighborhood meeting together, that's an important message," an EU official told reporters ahead of the summit, which takes place 40 km (25 miles) southeast of the capital Chisinau. A country of 2.5 million lodged between Ukraine and NATO member Romania, Moldova has taken in more Ukrainian refugees per capita than any other country just as food and energy prices soared as a result of the conflict. The government has accused Moscow of trying to destabilize the mainly Romanian-speaking country using its influence over the separatist movement in mainly Russian-speaking Transnistria. SEE ALSO: A related video by Ricardo Marquina The summit, the second meeting of the European Political Community, the brainchild of French President Emmanuel Macron, will discuss issues from cyber-security to migration and energy security. It will also provide an opportunity to discuss tensions in the continent ranging from Azerbaijan and Armenia to recent clashes in northern Kosovo. It comes as Kyiv is preparing for a counteroffensive using recently acquired Western weapons to try to drive Russian occupiers from territory seized in what Moscow calls a special military operation to protect Russian speakers. EU ambitions Moldova, like Ukraine, applied to join the European Union last year shortly after the Russian invasion, and Chisinau is planning to use the summit to showcase reforms and convince leaders to open accession talks as soon as possible. "For us, the presence of 50 leaders in Moldova is a milestone ... it's the biggest foreign policy event Moldova has ever hosted," said Olga Rosca, President Maia Sandu's foreign policy adviser. "It's our way of anchoring our future in Europe and in the EU. It's our way of accelerating the EU accession process." Moldova's aim, she added, is for a decision to be taken at the European Council Summit in December so that accession talks can begin at the start of 2024. Some fear differing expectations among participating countries and the sheer size of the summit, for which France has provided logistical and security support, will be an obstacle to delivering concrete policy wins. The political diversity and traditional rivalries between some of participants, from Armenia and Azerbaijan to Greece and Turkey, may also complicate matters. "With events in Ukraine it's useful, as is the discussion on energy supplies and migration. So I think for now it's suck it and see," one senior European diplomat said. At its inaugural summit in Prague last year, an EU-led effort to mediate between Azerbaijan and Armenia did make some progress. On Thursday, their leaders will hold talks with the EU, Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The director of the leading U.S. cybersecurity agency has a message for scientists and top technology company officials who are warning that artificial intelligence could lead to the end of humankind: Take action. If you actually think that these capabilities can lead to extinction of humanity, well, let's come together and do something about it, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agencys Jen Easterly told an audience Wednesday. While we're trying to put a regulatory framework in place, think about self-regulation, she told an Axios News Shapers event in Washington. Think about what you can do to slow this down." The comments by the CISA director come just a day after more than 350 researchers and technology executives issued a one-sentence warning about the dangers of artificial intelligence, or AI. Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war, they said in a post on the website for the Center for AI Safety. Those signing onto the warning included the co-founder and CEO of OpenAI, the company behind Chat GPT, Microsofts chief technology officer, the CEO of Googles AI research lab and Geoffrey Hinton, sometimes called the godfather of artificial intelligence. Hinton, notably, quit his job at Google earlier in May to focus on warning others of the dangers of AI. [[ ]] U.S. government officials, like CISAs Easterly, have likewise been warning about the dangers posed by AI. "AI will be the most powerful capability of our time," Easterly told students at Vanderbilt University during a speech earlier this month. I believe it will also be the most powerful weapon of our time, she added. "While one person will use this technology to plan a dinner party, another will use the capability to plan a cyberattack or a terrorist attack." Easterly has previously called for smart regulation of AI technology and products, warning that tech companies, as with other technologies, are too focused on getting AI products to market quickly and not paying enough attention to safety. Earlier in May she said that CISA has held discussions with tech companies about a way forward for AI. In April, CISAs parent agency, the Department of Homeland Security, launched its own initiative to take on the dangers posed by artificial intelligence. We must address the many ways in which artificial intelligence will drastically alter the threat landscape and augment the arsenal of tools we possess to succeed in the face of these threats," Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said at the time. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. North Korea Wednesday attempted to launch its first military spy satellite. The attempt failed, with the missile crashing into the ocean but not before startling Seoul residents. More from VOAs Bill Gallo in the South Korean capital. Global and local human rights campaigners in Pakistan asked the government Wednesday to transfer political activists who are set to be prosecuted in military courts for arson to the civilian justice system. Pakistani authorities have handed dozens of former prime minister Imran Khans supporters to the army recently for trial in military tribunals. They are accused of attacking public and defense installations during several days of protests sparked by Khan's dramatic, short-lived May 9 arrest on corruption charges. Human Rights Watch said in a statement that a military trial of civilians would breach Pakistan's obligations under international human rights law. "Pakistan's military courts, which use secret procedures that deny due process rights, should not be used to prosecute civilians, even for crimes against the military," said Patricia Gossman, the U.S.-based watchdog's associate Asia director. She questioned the integrity of the military tribunals, noting that their judges are serving officers and are not independent of the government. Gossman said that while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's administration is responsible for prosecuting those committing violence, it should try civilians only in independent and impartial civilian courts. The independent Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said Wednesday it strongly opposes the government's decision to try civilians under military law. Hina Jilani, the commission's chief, said that "the arbitrary manner" used to select cases to be tried by military courts denies the suspects' constitutional right to a fair trial. "There is no due process in military courts. Independence and impartiality of these courts are always questionable and people do not get real justice," Jilani told VOA. Police have rounded up thousands of members of Khan's opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, or PTI, party in connection with the protests amid allegations of abuses against female detainees in particular. Critics describe the nationwide military-backed crackdown as an attempt to crush the country's largest political force. On Tuesday, Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah threatened that even Khan could face a military court trial, accusing the 70-year-old opposition leader of being the "architect" of the violence against defense installations. The former prime minister and his party have condemned the violence, alleging that government intelligence agencies infiltrated saboteurs to justify the ongoing crackdown on the PTI. The army says it has collected "irrefutable evidence" against arsonists. Sharif has endorsed the military trials under what is known as the Pakistan Army Act and Official Secrets Act. He has pledged to use special anti-terrorism courts to try those responsible for vandalizing public property. Speaking in parliament last week, Sharif denounced attacks on military installations as an outright enmity against the country. "Therefore, all these cases will be tried under the Army Act," he said, referring to the platform exclusively used to prosecute military personnel and enemies of the state. "For the Pakistani government to threaten to prosecute Imran Khan in compromised military courts is a virtual admission that the "case" against him is weak. If he really did something wrong, why not prosecute him in independent civilian courts?" tweeted Kenneth Roth, a former executive director of Human Rights Watch. A parliamentary vote of no-confidence removed Khan from power in April 2022, nearly four years into his coalition government. He accused the military of plotting the vote in collusion with Sharif and the United States. Washington and Sharif reject the allegations. The government has also maintained elections would be held later this year when parliament completes its mandated five-year term. According to opinion surveys, Khan is still the most popular politician in Pakistan, but he remains embroiled in more than 100 legal cases instituted against him since his ouster. The allegations range from corruption and terrorism to sedition and blasphemy. The deposed prime minister rejects all the charges as politically motivated and an attempt by the military to disqualify him from the national electoral process. Military's role The ongoing crackdown on Khan's party has forced dozens of PTI leaders, including former lawmakers and ministers, to either quit the party or take a break from politics, paving the way for their release from police custody. Almost all of the defectors in televised news conferences made identical statements. They condemned the attacks on military installations, pledging their loyalty to the powerful security institution and saying they were not abandoning Khan under duress. Critics continue to point figures at the military, saying the institution was behind Khan's rise to power and is now trying to keep him from staging a comeback. "I think the aim of this political engineering at this time is to clean up the mess that the military had created in 2018. The military has no business to engineer politically or re-engineer," Jilani said. In a recent editorial, the prestigious English-language daily newspaper Dawn raised questions about the motives behind the desertions. "One wonders what kind of duress they were under: was it simply the terrible conditions of the prison, or blackmail, threats against family, or something worse? It is difficult to say," the paper wrote. "What isn't as difficult to surmise is who is behind the campaign to break apart yet another political movement that has grown too big for the state's liking. Their playbook hasn't changed," said the editorial, indirectly referencing the Pakistani military's long-standing intervention into national politics. Khan has also contacted British and U.S. lawmakers to draw their attention to alleged human rights violations against his supporters. Republican Sheila Jackson Lee, the chairwoman of the U.S. House's Congressional Pakistan Caucus, wrote on Twitter last Friday she would be writing to President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken to ask them to help bring an end to "human rights violations" against the opposition. "I am extremely concerned about the reports that are coming out of Pakistan of human rights abuses and the lack of protection for those who express peaceful opposition to the government," Jackson Lee said. The military has staged three coups and ruled Pakistan for more than three decades. Former army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa acknowledged in a televised speech just days before his retirement last November that the military had been interfering in politics for the last seven decades. Lawmakers in the Philippines are targeting the countrys offshore gaming operators, known as POGOs, and its regulators as they try to crackdown on the countrys growing network of cryptocurrency scams and the human trafficking connected to it. At an inquiry this week, the Philippine Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality focused on a raid in early-May of an alleged scam hub operating at an accredited POGO site. The site was just a few hours' drive from the Philippine capital, Manila. During that raid, more than one-thousand human trafficking victims from across Asia were rescued. At the hearing, senators sharply criticized officials from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), which regulates the countrys online casinos. This brings international shame to us. The Philippines is becoming a scam hub, said Senator Sherwin Gatchalian. POGOs being used as fronts for scams. POGOs being used as fronts for human trafficking. Because PAGCOR is corrupt and not doing its job. The victims in this case were trafficked from 11 countries across Asia. One of them, Jason, whos real identity and nationality VOA agreed not to reveal due to safety concerns, said he traveled to the Philippines thinking he had a legitimate marketing job only to be forced to carry-out cryptocurrency scams on American and Canadian men who Jason tricked into thinking he was a woman. Jason spoke to VOA after testifying in front of the Senate committee. He told the senators that when PAGCOR inspectors visited the POGO site once a week, half of the trafficking victims would quietly hide in the dormitory with the shades closed and doors locked. Senator Risa Hontiveros, the committees chair, is calling for POGOs to be banned. POGOs provide that legal layer to these hubs and the operations of these hubs remain beyond regulatory scrutiny, Senator Hontiveros said. If POGOs are allowed to continue business as usual, the crypto-scams and human trafficking operations will also grow at a frightening rate our government will never be able to overtake. During the hearing, PAGCOR officials did not deny issues with corruption and admitted needing to improve their regulations and monitoring. PAGCOR also said that it canceled the accreditation of the raided POGO site. Stories of cryptocurrency scams connected to human trafficking networks have become common throughout Asia with victims trafficked from across the region into Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and the Philippines where they work in what have been labeled by human rights activists as fraud factories. There trafficking victims are forced to be scammers often having to work 15-hours a day. Non-Government Organizations researching this issue say the number of people trapped in fraud factories across the region might top 100-thousand. The victims are often university educated, white-collar workers with social media skills. Some lost their jobs during the COVID pandemic and are desperate for work. There's huge demand for scammers who can speak English and/or Chinese because these are two widely spoken languages, the Global Anti-Scam Organization told VOA. The victims are often lured by postings on social media promising high paying jobs. Some victims whove been rescued or escaped say disobeying their captors could result in torture or even death. But Jason told VOA there was no violence at his site. Theres no physical abuse only mental abuse, Jason said. The worst case is going into the detention room adding that anyone sent there could spend several days stuck in a dark room and given a minimal amount of food. Jason said when victims at his compound would fulfil their contracts, which were often six-months, and say they wanted to go home, their supervisors would lie and say they had not been there long enough. They were told they would have to pay fees in the thousands of dollars, an exorbitant amount for many people in this part of the world, if they wanted to go home. The company will do any means necessary to keep us," Jason said while acknowledging that some victims were able to go home because their families paid the extortion demand. Grabbed off the street by police, Camila Acosta was taken to a Havana police station where officers ordered her to undress. The journalist, who works for the Spanish newspaper ABC and for Cubanet, an independent online news site, was told by two women at the station that if she refused, they would force Acosta to remove her clothes. "On two occasions she (was) forced to undress, the first of which was the most aggressive and humiliating," according to a report published Tuesday. Acosta's case is one among 181 in the report "Torture in Cuba," compiled by Prisoners Defenders, a Cuban independent group based in Madrid. The report deals with a small portion of the 1,277 political dissidents, including journalists, but also taxi drivers or other people who, the group says, are behind bars because they oppose the Cuban government. The findings are based on statements provided via networks of family, friends, and legal representatives, and then verified by Prisoners Defenders. Javier Larrondo, president of Prisoners Defenders, said his organization wanted to go beyond the statistics to provide the West with a clear picture of how Cuba treats dissent. "We must focus on whether political prisoners are treated decently or if they are tortured, and in Cuba this report shows that everyone is tortured," he told VOA. Cuba's International Press Center the government agency that handles media inquiries in Havana did not reply to VOA's email requests for comment. Arrested after covering protests In Acosta's case, she was arrested after covering demonstrations in July 2021, the largest protests against the communist government since former leader Fidel Castro's revolution. She was placed under house arrest after refusing to sign a document saying she was guilty of public disorder. At that time, Cuba detained and questioned dozens of journalists over their coverage of the protest movement. Hundreds of Cubans remain in jail nearly two years later. Human rights groups, the EU, and the United States criticized Cuba's response to the protests as heavy-handed and repressive. The Cuban government said those jailed were guilty of assault, vandalism and sedition. In its report, Prisoners Defenders found torture is routinely used. "Acts constituting torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment are a further reflection of the repression that is exercised, among other reasons, toward political dissidence in Cuba," the report said. These methods are also "a means of obtaining confessions, fabricated and false, with the aim of keeping activists in prison for long long periods of time." The report said that the pattern of mistreatment is "a license granted by the regime" to aggressive or unstable elements within the police and military "who do not hesitate to mistreat, humiliate, and torture human rights activists, homosexuals, transsexuals, and their families." The report said that some guards refrained from torturing inmates because they objected on conscientious grounds. Inmates subjected to extremes A litany of techniques was used against the victims, the report said. Prisoners were deprived of medical care or made to do forced labor. Others were forced to adopt uncomfortable or degrading physical positions, the group alleged. Some were allegedly subjected to prolonged periods of solitary confinement or forced to bear extreme heat or cold. Physical aggression or being taken to unfamiliar locations were among other techniques used in prisons, as was spreading uncertainty about the fate of relatives. Others said they were denied food, liquids or even sleep for long periods, the report claimed. In some cases, prisoners were prevented from any contact with family or lawyers. Physical threats or intimidation with instruments of torture also were documented. Journalist convicted of 'resistance' Among the 181 cases analyzed are two journalists: Acosta and Lazaro Yuri Valle Roca, a freelance journalist. Valle Roca was arrested in June 2021. He was convicted and sentenced to five years in prison in July 2022 for the offenses of "resistance" and "enemy propaganda." In prison, Valle Roca complained to his lawyer that he had been fed rotten food. He has been suffering from a sustained case of flu for the past six months, Prisoners Defenders said. The report will be presented to the United Nations Committee Against Torture, the Cuban government, and rights groups including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International. "All these forms of torture are applied in a generalized and systematic way, without any limitation, except [we intuit] with cases of conscious objection of some commanders of guards who do not act in the same way as others," the report said. Prisoners Defenders said respondents were invited to offer their statements and to fill in a questionnaire. The responses were checked with other sources and the identities of the respondents were verified. Larrondo of Prisoners Defenders said the report did not specifically analyze the number of journalists allegedly mistreated by the Cuban authorities. "We have not obtained these statistics, but the majority [of cases] are civilians with no ties to the opposition or dissidents. [They are] ordinary Cuban families," Larrondo added. The European Union announced last week that a special human rights envoy will be sent to Cuba this year to discuss the aftermath of the anti-government protests in July 2021, Reuters reported. However, the EU's top diplomat said it would not "impose" demands on the communist-run Caribbean nation. Editor's note: The 10th paragraph of this article has been updated to correct the month that protests took place. The tragic story of the former Yugoslavia began in Kosovo. Now, as has happened in the past, the consequences of the mistaken, centralist and xenophobic policy of the Belgrade authorities towards this southern province, which declared itself independent in 2008, are once again taking a toll. What has happened in recent days may seem to follow a very simple script: Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic ordered alleged militants to be bussed in from Kosovo for a rally he was holding to counter the protests that have been sweeping through Belgrade for weeks. Why from Kosovo? Because the Serb population there is especially vulnerable. Many Kosovo Serbs still trust in official power to look after them. In Belgrade, mass citizen protests have been calling for an end to the Vucic era. After a student in a downtown school killed nine classmates with his fathers gun, the public has risen up to demand a Serbia free of weapons, corruption and unhealthy nationalism. The Serbian president wanted to show at the rally that he was still loved by the people, but given the context of the protests, he couldnt count on the population of the capital and its surroundings to do this. Thats why he didnt mind once again using the people of Kosovo as guinea pigs. And while he brought them to be idolized in Belgrade, a group of pro-independence Albanian Kosovars used the opportunity to raise their flag in the few town halls in northern Kosovo still controlled by Serbs. This scenario has become more delicate and dangerous with each passing day and hour. In this area, it is not only difficult to deal with history, it is difficult to even explain it. The Albanian independentist movement in Kosovo which was born and has grown as a response to feeling like second-class citizens in the former Serbian province for decades was a threat even during the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Back then, only the adjective Yugoslav was politically correct. When I was a girl, I remember that on end-of-year trips in primary school where year after year I had to go to each of the capitals of the then-Yugoslav republics under the motto know your homeland to love it more the only place where they did not let us get out of the bus was Pristina, the capital of Kosovo. At night, drums were heard beating in front of the hostel near the Patriarchate of Pec Monastery, an Orthodox Christian complex built during the medieval period of great Serbia. None of the teachers dared to tell us that it could be Albanian Kosovars protesting the arrival of schoolkids from Belgrade, the capital of Serbia and, back then, all of Yugoslavia. In the 1970s, there was evident suspicion between Kosovo Albanians and Serbs. The area was already a powder keg. Although Yugoslavian leader Josip Broz Tito granted broad rights to Albanian Kosovars in the 1974 Constitution, it failed to counter the deep-running hatred of the oppressed population, which spanned many generations. Albanian Kosovars felt humiliated by the Slavic Serbs, who have always claimed Kosovo as the cradle of their culture. Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic took advantage of the tensions in Kosovo to rise to power with his legendary phrase: I will not let anyone attack the [Kosovo] Serbs. The first thing he did was to end the autonomy with which the Albanian Kosovar population had started to run their local institutions, parallel to the Serbian ones. And the Albanian Kosovars, who were growing demographically, once again felt humiliated and hated. Wasnt it to be expected? On the other hand, the Serbs who stayed in Kosovo had more and more reasons to leave: neighborhood hatred, war, lack of resources. Kosovars fragile economy practically disappeared with the end of Yugoslavia, which allocated a considerable part of its budgets to the development of the southern province. This led to a rise in mafias and illegal trafficking of all kinds. And once again, the highest price was paid by the local population, both Albanian and Serbian. The demographic balance has been changing in the last decades: while the Albanian population has risen, the number of Serbs has fallen. Currently, they do not even account for 5% (in 1981, the figure was 20%). With Kosovo, the main issue is not whether it is permanently lost to Serbia or not, but ensuring that the small Serb population that has not gone into exile can live in security and with dignity, which is currently not the case. Tamara Djermanovic is a writer and teacher from Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Spain. South Koreans, who typically shrug off North Korean missile launches, were awakened Wednesday by air raid sirens and shelter warnings following an attempted North Korean satellite launch. Just after 6:30 a.m. local time, cell phones in Seoul vibrated with loud alerts, along with an accompanying text message, warning residents to prepare to take shelter. For some, the message was labeled as a "wartime alert." Outside on Seouls mostly empty streets, public emergency systems blasted sirens and verbal warnings, saying the young and elderly should be given evacuation priority though the reason for the evacuation was never made clear. Twenty-two minutes later, Seoul officials sent a follow-up text message saying the warning had been sent in error. The warnings were prompted by a failed North Korean satellite launch. The missile carrying the satellite crashed into the sea about 200 kilometers west of the sparsely populated Eochang Island off South Koreas west coast. Though there appeared to be no signs of panic, the incident rattled many Seoul residents who have grown accustomed to North Korean launches. "It was scary because I didnt get any information (in the text message) about what the situation was and where to evacuate," said Seoul resident Choi Seul-gi, who works as a financial news broadcaster. It is extremely rare for North Korean missiles to disrupt life in South Korea. Thats partly because of alarm fatigue North Korea has launched more than 100 missiles since the beginning of last year. Since most North Korean missiles head well out to sea, South Korean authorities almost never issue missile warnings. As a result, many Seoul residents do not even know when North Korea has conducted a launch. "Id never been in a situation like this before," said 16-year-old high school student Kim Ji-woo, who began packing an emergency bag with candy, other snacks, and a phone charger. "When the alarm went off, I felt like I had to do something, but no one told me what to do," Kim said. Cho Sung-eun, a 34-year-old Seoul resident, considered waking her two-year-old son, but did not know where to evacuate if she did. "I didn't know where to go with a kid and how to prepare for it. It would have been helpful if there was a guide to where to evacuate," she said. According to official figures, there are more than 3,000 officially designated emergency bomb shelters in the South Korean capital, which is well within North Korean artillery range. Nationwide, there are more than 17,000 shelters. But Wednesday's incident suggests many residents are not aware of shelters in their own community. The two Koreas remain technically in a state of war, since their 1950s conflict ended in a truce instead of a peace treaty. Though it has been decades since major, sustained hostilities, the peninsula occasionally sees flare ups of military tensions, such as when North Korea conducts major weapons tests. Wednesday's incident is likely to lead to questions about how Seoul should manage those periods of tensions without alarming the public. At a press briefing Wednesday, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon apologized for the confusion caused by the erroneous warnings. Earlier, the Seoul city government had defended its approach, saying officials had erred on the side of caution when responding to a developing situation that was potentially dangerous. But there is a danger that residents will ignore future alerts, said Mason Richey, associate professor at South Korea's Hankuk University of Foreign Studies. "For me, the first concern is with false positives, like this messages that are sent out in error. You condition people to not take these messages as seriously. And even if the delay in response to a true crisis is only a few seconds or a few minutes, that might actually make the difference between getting yourself to safety and not," Richey said. South Korean officials may soon get the chance to do it all over again. North Korea on Wednesday acknowledged their satellite launch failed and said they will attempt another as soon as possible. Sudans military Wednesday broke off negotiations with the countrys paramilitary forces over extending a cease-fire agreement, accusing their rivals of repeatedly violating the U.S.-Saudi-brokered truce. Both sides to the six-week-old conflict signed a seven-day cease-fire in the Saudi city of Jeddah on May 20 intended to allow for the delivery of humanitarian assistance. A five- day extension was agreed on May 29. The United States and Saudi Arabia are monitoring implementation of the cease-fire and have said both sides have violated it. Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council met Wednesday in a 90-minute-long, closed-door session at the request of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. It is only the fifth time in his more than five-year tenure that he has requested such a meeting. We are facing a dramatic situation in Sudan, both on the political and the humanitarian end, and the secretary-general wanted to share some thoughts that he has with council members, his spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, told reporters. Sudans capital, Khartoum, has been mired in violence since April 15, when fighting broke out between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces after relations broke down between military leader General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF chief General Mohamed Hamdan Degalo. The two generals are former allies who together orchestrated an October 2021 military coup that derailed a transition to civilian rule following the 2019 ouster of longtime leader Omar al-Bashir. Tensions between the generals have been growing over disagreements about how the RSF should be integrated in the army and who should oversee that process. The restructuring of the military was part of an effort to restore the country to civilian rule and end the political crisis sparked by the 2021 coup. UN role Despite the insecurity, the U.N. and its aid partners have been delivering assistance where they can. Between May 24 and 30, 100 aid trucks were deployed. The World Food Program has reached more than 782,000 people with food and nutrition support over the past four weeks, and the U.N. Population Fund has started to provide vital medicines and reproductive health supplies to the maternity hospital in Wad Medani in Al Jazirah state. The U.N. also has a political mission in Sudan, known as UNITAMS, which is mandated to assist with the transfer to a civilian-led government. A diplomat with knowledge of the council discussions told VOA that Guterres expressed his frustration over the lack of public support for the mission, which is up for renewal by Saturday. It is up to the Security Council to decide whether the Security Council supports the continuation of the mission for another period or whether the Security Council decides that it is time to end it, Guterres told reporters of the mission during brief remarks after the meeting. Council diplomats said a six-month technical rollover of the missions mandate is likely to be voted on later this week. Guterres also expressed his full confidence in his envoy, Volker Perthes. Last week, Burhan wrote to Guterres calling for Perthes to resign. The war has killed hundreds of civilians and left more than 1.2 million others internally displaced, with about 350,000 escaping to neighboring countries. Khartoum has been forced to endure frequent power cuts, with many areas without running water, and most of the hospitals out of service. Margaret Besheer at the United Nations contributed to this report. Some information came from Reuters, The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse. Earlier this month the White House changed its stance on providing F-16 warplanes to Ukraine, agreeing to allow the jets to be sent to the country to better help it defend itself from Russian attacks. The timetable for the F-16s joining the war remains unclear, as it can take months for Ukrainian pilots to be trained. Andrii Yermak, head of the Office of Ukraine's President, tells VOA how the country is quickly pivoting to get the planes into the battlefield and the security guarantees Ukraine's government is still seeking from the U.S. and NATO. The following interview has been edited for brevity and clarity. VOA: One of the major topics during the summit was the F-15 and F-16 aircraft. President (Joe) Biden made it clear that the United States will provide Ukraine with everything it needs for a counteroffensive, but it seems that F-15 and F-16 aircraft are not necessary for that purpose. However, President (Volodymyr) Zelenskyy emphasized the word "accelerate" when answering my question on the delivery of these fighter jets. How do you reconcile these statements, and when can we expect to see Western fighter jets in Ukraine? Andrii Yermak, Head of the Office of Ukraine's President: Regarding the aircraft, I can confirm what President Zelenskyy said. We appreciate the official statement from President Biden, where he assured us of the United States' participation in the aircraft coalition. Moreover, we have heard statements from partner countries such as France, Poland, Denmark, and the Netherlands, expressing their readiness to train our pilots. This is a significant initial step that paves the way for the future delivery of aircraft to Ukraine. We anticipate that the training exercises will commence very soon, perhaps within days. We also expect countries that have expressed their readiness to deliver aircraft to Ukraine to follow suit. We believe this process will begin within a matter of months, rather than an extended period. Naturally, we anticipate the same commitment from the United States. Therefore, this matter is no longer up for discussion; it is a resolved issue. The President openly discussed the timeline, and we addressed this during the meeting in Hiroshima. We are determined to make it happen as soon as possible, as the aircraft are essential for protecting our skies and maintaining Ukrainian superiority in that domain. VOA: When you mention the aircraft coalition or fighter jet coalition, can you clarify what it means to be part of it? Not all NATO member countries have the F-15 and F-16s we've been discussing. Could you explain the nature of this coalition and who has expressed their support? Yermak: Being part of this coalition means that countries are willing to start by training pilots on the strategic aircraft available to them. Official statements have already been made by France, Poland, Denmark, the United Kingdom, and several other countries. I anticipate that this coalition will grow, and it is crucial for us. Just like the tank coalition, which was established and has already yielded results with the deployment of our partners' tanks in Ukraine, we expect the same outcome with aircraft. VOA: Ukraine has requested specific security guarantees, including from the United States. Can you elaborate on the nature of these security guarantees? Are they similar to the Budapest Memorandum, or do they follow a different format, such as the Israeli model or the Kyiv Security Treaty? Yermak: Concerning security guarantees, President Zelenskyy has been advocating for them in our path towards NATO membership for several months. NATO membership is our primary guarantee. NATO is currently the strongest alliance in the world, a fact acknowledged by all. When we initiated discussions with our partners, we didn't merely talk; we presented a concrete proposal. President Zelenskyy mandated the development of a document called the Kyiv Security Compact. This document takes into account the prevailing situation and outlines the potential guarantees we can receive. It also explains the rationale behind these guarantees. It is essential to note that we do not discuss Article 5 until we become NATO members. Therefore, these guarantees are tangible and realistic. During President Biden's visit to Kyiv, he made it clear during his meeting with President Zelenskyy that he respects our desire for guarantees and supports it. In subsequent consultations with our partners, we have taken the position that the ideal format would be a document combining elements from the Kyiv Security Compact and the various agreements and arrangements between the United States and the State of Israel. We sense positive receptiveness from our partners, and there is widespread support for this approach. We are engaged in constructive work, and I believe we will achieve results soon. Thus, Ukraine sees security guarantees through its NATO membership, which can be realized when the security situation permits. There is no alternative to this, and we consider ourselves future members of NATO. VOA: Analysts I have spoken to suggest that Ukraine's invitation to join NATO, even in writing, could serve as an argument to end the war a catalyst for Russia to cease-fire. Do you believe this invitation could contribute to peace, if at all possible? Yermak: Absolutely, I believe that extending an invitation to Ukraine to join NATO can be a decisive factor in ending the war. Russia's aggression on February 24 altered the reality, and it is now a reality that we must acknowledge. Finland has already become a NATO member, and Sweden is on the path to membership. The same should apply to Ukraine. Ukraine wants to join NATO, and I firmly believe that NATO needs Ukraine to establish a new security structure in Europe and the world. This desire is not solely ours; it is a reality demanded by the modern world and modern Europe. Without Ukraine, there can be no viable new security system in Europe. The existing system has proven ineffective, as demonstrated by the events of February 24th. Europe requires a secure world, and that is impossible without Ukraine. Russia must accept this reality, as it cannot be denied. They initiated the change in reality through their attack on Ukraine, and they cannot simply ignore it. And they will have to eventually accept it. VOA: How do you envision the peace following the end of the war, and how will it impact the world globally? Yermak: I am certain once the war ends, the world will be safer. It will reflect the desires of people worldwide. I am certain of it, as are all reasonable individuals worldwide. For Ukraine, the end of the war means the restoration of our territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders. We will not compromise on this point. It will signify the emergence of a prosperous, modern, and rebuilt Ukraine, standing as the best nation globally. We will foster partnerships and friendly relations with all those who have stood by our side. Furthermore, Ukraine will play a pivotal role in establishing a new security system in Europe and become a crucial component of the emerging global order that unites Europe, the Global South, and all other continents. Our struggle and the symbolism it carries demonstrate to the world that our courageous people have restored faith in the triumph of good. We should not fear fighting for our values, and every nation's sovereignty must be respected. Today, we symbolize the world's aspiration for peaceful, secure, and safe living. We should focus on future generations rather than merely surviving each day and wondering if our loved ones will see another day. The U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation to suspend the governments borrowing limit until early 2025, a step toward averting a Washington political showdown five days before the country could run out of money to pay its bills. With a late Wednesday vote of 314-117, the bill passed and now heads to the Senate with passage expected by week's end, and eventually Bidens signature at the White House. The measure suspends the governments current $31.4 trillion debt ceiling. Far-right Republican lawmakers had criticized the deal negotiated by Democratic President Joe Biden and Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy for not cutting enough in future government spending, while some progressive Democrats said it trims too much. The contentious fight over the legislation is also turning into a test of McCarthys hold on the top leadership post in the House, which he won in January after 15 rounds of voting and after he promised archconservatives a greater say in attempting to rein in government budgets. The U.S. chronically records annual trillion-dollar deficits, adding to the long-term debt total. Under informal Republican rules managing the House with a narrow majority, McCarthy had pledged to not bring up legislation for a full House vote without the support of at least 111 members of his 222-member Republican caucus. Before the vote, he expected at least 150 Republicans would support the debt ceiling suspension. If McCarthy were to lose 111 Republicans on the debt ceiling vote, at least 107 of the 213 House Democrats would need to support it for the legislation to pass. House Democrats are going to make sure the country doesnt default. Period. Full stop, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries told reporters early Wednesday. One Freedom Caucus member, Representative Ken Buck, acknowledged to NBC News that the conservative lawmakers do not have enough votes to kill the legislation. The nation will not default, Buck said. But he and other Republicans have voiced skepticism about the legitimacy of Treasury Secretary Janet Yellens warning that the government will run out of money next Monday to meet all its financial obligations, including cash to pay interest on government bonds, pensions to older Americans and salaries to the military and government workers. The House Rules Committee sent the legislation to the full House on a 7-6 vote Tuesday night that showed some of that discontent, with two Republicans voting against advancing the bill. The proposal before Congress includes waiving the existing borrowing limit until January 2025 and a two-year budget deal that keeps federal spending flat in 2024 and increases it by 1% in 2025. The measure does not raise taxes, nor will it stop the national debt total from continuing to increase, perhaps by another $3 trillion or more over the next year and a half. Other pieces of the legislation include a reduction in the number of new agents hired by the country's tax collection agency, a requirement that states return $30 billion in unspent coronavirus pandemic assistance to the federal government and extending from 50 to 54 the upper age bracket for those required to work in order to receive food aid. Some liberal Democratic lawmakers have objected to the deal, saying it cuts too much in social welfare spending or holds some programs at a flat spending level. Republicans say it allows for more spending than legislation they approved weeks ago calling for steeper cuts and a debt ceiling extension of less than a year totaling about $1.5 trillion. Biden insisted on a new debt ceiling that extended beyond the November 2024 presidential election in which he is seeking a second four-year term, so the current contentious debate would not be repeated during the political campaign next year. One Republican critic of the debt ceiling legislation, Representative Dan Bishop, complained Tuesday about the length of the debt ceiling extension. It removes the issue from the national conversation during the presidential election to come, Bishop said. How could you more successfully kneecap any Republican [presidential candidate] than to take that issue out of his or her hands? Biden and McCarthy have both, respectively, been lobbying Democrats and Republicans to pass the measure. "The agreement prevents the worst possible crisis a default for the first time in our nation's history," Biden said at the White House last weekend. It "takes the threat of a catastrophic default off the table." "The agreement represents a compromise, which means not everyone gets what they want. But that's the responsibility of governing," Biden said in a statement. McCarthy called the bill the "most conservative deal we've ever had." The U.S. military says a Chinese fighter jet flew close to one of its reconnaissance aircraft during a patrol mission over the South China Sea last week. A statement by the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command says a Chinese J-16 fighter jet flew directly in front of the nose of the RC-135 plane in an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver, forcing the pilot to fly through the turbulence caused by the fighter jet. Video footage of the incident from the cockpit of the U.S. reconnaissance plane showed the plane shaking soon after the Chinese fighter jet flew across its flight path. The statement said the RC-135 reconnaissance plane was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law. Last weeks incident occurred six months after a similar incident in December, when the crew of another RC-135 plane was forced to take evasive maneuvers to avoid colliding with a Chinese fighter jet. The incidents come during a time of rising tensions between Beijing and Washington over a host of issues, including Chinas aggressive expansion across the South China Sea and its increasing military and diplomatic pressure on self-ruled Taiwan, which it considers a breakaway province of China. Along with the aerial reconnaissance missions, the U.S. has also sailed its naval warships through the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait under the concept of freedom of navigation. The Pentagon said that China has rejected an invitation for Defense Minister General Li Shangfu to meet with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue regional security summit in Singapore this week. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. Latest developments: Fighting in Ukraine's eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk has continued over the past 24 hours, the Ukrainian military said early Wednesday, according to RFE/RL. Russia said Wednesday that Ukrainian shelling in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine killed five people and wounded 19 others. Ukraines military did not immediately comment on the Russian allegation The United States will provide another $300 million in new military aid for Ukraine in a package that is expected to include munitions for Ukraines Patriot missile defense system, defense officials tell VOA. Russian authorities said Wednesday that Ukrainian shelling in the Luhansk region of eastern Ukraine killed five people and wounded 19 others. The strikes hit a poultry farm in the village of Karpaty, the Russian authorities said. They added that Ukraine had used HIMARS rockets provided by the United States. Ukraines military did not immediately comment on the Russian allegation and rarely publicly takes credit for such attacks. Russia controls much of Luhansk, one of the areas that President Vladimir Putin claimed to annex last year in a move rejected by the international community. Nuclear plant concerns The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency said the world is "fortunate" that a nuclear accident has not yet happened in Ukraine and issued a set of five principles to help ensure the safety and security of Europes largest nuclear power plant, which is located in the country. "I see these commitments as essential to avoid the danger of a catastrophic incident," IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told the U.N. Security Council in a briefing Tuesday about the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (ZNPP). The five principles include committing to no attack of any kind against or from the plant; not using it as storage or a base for heavy weapons or military personnel; not putting the plants off-site power supply at risk; protection of all structure, systems and components essential to the safe and secure operation of the ZNPP; and not acting in a way that would undermine these principles. "What we are doing is giving ourselves a better tool to deal with a very bad situation," the IAEA chief told reporters of the five principles. SEE ALSO: The Zaporizhzhia plant, which Russia seized in March 2022, has repeatedly been in the crossfire of shelling. It has lost off-site power seven times and had to rely on emergency diesel generators to prevent a nuclear accident. The last such incident was on May 22. Grossi called on both Russia, which occupies the plant, and Ukraine, which owns it, to observe the principles. He also called on council members to unambiguously support them. He said the IAEA would immediately start monitoring implementation of these principles through its own team at the ZNPP and would report publicly on any violations. Each side has repeatedly accused the other of militarily targeting the plant. Russia is a permanent member of the Security Council. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Moscow has taken specific steps to protect the most sensitive installations and components of the ZNPP. "Russia will take the most severe measures to respond to any attacks by Ukraine against the nuclear power plant, its critical infrastructure, including its power lines, as well as the city of Enerhodar that is home to the personnel of the power plant and their families," he told the council. SEE ALSO: Ukraines envoy said his government has never done anything that could lead to a nuclear incident at the facility, saying Kyiv realizes the catastrophic consequences that would have for Ukraine and its neighbors. "To ultimately remove the nuclear stress stemming from the illegal Russian presence at the plant, the troops and weaponry must be withdrawn, the station must be de-occupied and returned under the legitimate, full control of Ukraine," Ambassador Sergiy Kyslytsya said. He also urged the IAEA chief to expand his five principles to include guarantees of an uninterrupted power supply and a humanitarian corridor to ensure the safe rotation of staff at the power plant. Grossi told reporters he hopes to return to Ukraine "soon" and would also "expect to be visiting Russia" as part of his diplomacy to engage with both sides. VOAs Cindy Saine contributed to this report. Some information was provided by The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse. Coumbus Mavhunga HARARE, ZIMBABWE A top USAID official in Zimbabwe says the agency will continue providing aid to people of the southern African nation, despite Harare summoning the top U.S. diplomat in the country. The government called in Elaine French, charge d'affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Harare, on Tuesday to protest advertisements posted on social media urging citizens to vote and cast their ballots peacefully. A Zimbabwean official said the ads bordered on illegal activism. Ramses Gauthier, the charge d'affaires at the U.S. Agency for International Development in Zimbabwe, said his organization will not stop aiding people in the country despite the government's actions. "Our commitment is toward Zimbabwean people, and it's a longstanding one," Gauthier said. "We have been standing by the Zimbabwean people since 1980, and we have invested billions of dollars. We may have disagreements, but we are not enemies, and Zimbabwean people are our friends. So, whatever we do, we do it with a sentiment of friendship toward the Zimbabwean people. And disagreement or not, we will continue to stand by the Zimbabwean people." Late Tuesday, Zimbabwe's acting secretary for foreign affairs, Rofina Chikava, summoned French to protest several advertisements shared on social media this month by the U.S. Embassy. Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesman Livit Mugejo singled out one Twitter message that said, "Register to vote and make sure your voice is heard." Mugejo said that in the meeting with French, Chikava expressed concern that the social media posts bordered "on activism and meddling in Zimbabwe's internal affairs" and were unacceptable, as they deviated from conventional diplomatic norms. Meg Riggs, the spokeswoman for the U S. Embassy, defended the ads. "We stand by our recent social media posts calling for peace during the election season. These neutral apolitical messages feature the work of Zimbabwean artists who wanted to engage their fellow youths on the importance of peace during an electoral process," Riggs said. "Elections are a fundamental part of a functioning democracy. All Zimbabweans deserve this chance to choose their future safely." Riggs added that the United States does not back any political candidate or party in Zimbabwe, but strongly supports a peaceful and transparent election process "that reflects the will of the people of Zimbabwe." Alexander Rusero, who heads the International Relations Studies Department at Africa University in Zimbabwe, said President Emmerson Mnangagwa was justified in summoning the U.S. diplomat. "At times, the United States of America and its embassy, they should desist from acting as if they are political actors," Rusero said. "There is need for rationality in handling Zimbabwe issues, because what the United States did in terms of that tweet, it's outside the parameters of what diplomacy and diplomats should do." But Lovemore Madhuku, a law professor at the University of Zimbabwe, disagreed. "The U.S. Embassy, whatever it is doing, cannot be said to be a serious interference with the electoral processes," Madhuku said. "There is a lot of misunderstanding of the role of foreign embassies. If they encourage people to register to vote or encourage people to vote without saying, 'Vote for so and so,' it cannot be wrong." Madhuku said there is no reason Zimbabwe's government should be uncomfortable with an open electoral playing field. Just one year ago, a massacre in the state of Mexico known as Edomex, to distinguish it from the name of the whole country drew national attention. 11 people allegedly members of La Familia Michoacana, a powerful drug cartel were killed in a shootout with federal and state security agents. The agents detained another 10 people and seized several high-powered weapons. A spider monkey dressed in military clothing was found at the site and died of gunshot wounds. The absurd image shook the internet, provoking grief, disbelief and cruel laughter. The monkey was found lifeless, hugging the chest of an alleged hit man around 20-years-old who was killed during the shooting, reports noted at the time. The events occurred in the municipality of Texcaltitlan, in the Tierra Caliente region of Edomex, near the border with the states of Michoacan and Guerrero. And, just months later, in March of 2023, three police officers died in an attempt to capture a group of alleged kidnappers. The chase began in the municipality of San Antonio de La Isla located in the Toluca Valley region and ended in the west of Mexico City. Six suspects were arrested in a joint operation between state agents and the capital police. According to the authorities in Mexico City, the kidnappers belonged to the Jalisco Nueva Generacion Cartel (CJNG). These two scenes portray the circumstances in the state of Mexico, an entity that the historic Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) has ruled uninterruptedly for 94 years. On June 4, the elections will be held in the state, with Morena the ruling party at the federal level having a real shot at victory for the first time. The state has been governed by the PRI member Alfredo del Mazo since 2017. It is one of the last strongholds of the PRI, which, over the last decade, has lost nearly all the political influence accumulated in almost a century of existence. Since President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador took power in 2018 with his Morena party, all traditional parties from the PRI to the PAN have lost large amounts of their support. That being said, the political fight in the state that surrounds Mexico City is not the only one being fought. Its vast geography is also plagued by bitter cartel warfare, primarily between La Familia and the CJNG, two major rivals that interact with a myriad of local criminal groups linked to other national drug trafficking organizations. The state of Mexico is the most-populous of the 32 in the country, with 17 million inhabitants living in 125 municipalities. Hundreds of thousands of workers commute to Mexico City from this state every day. The municipalities adjacent to the capital make up a new demographic region called the Valley of Mexico metropolitan area. In terms of crime incidence, the state of Mexico is near the top of the rankings. From 2020 to April of this year, it has occupied the first national place in the number of crimes of extortion per 100,000 inhabitants, according to data from the Ministry of Public Safety. Between 2018 and 2022, the state ranked a consistent second in vehicle theft, while in 2021 and 2022, it was also second in robberies targeting pedestrians. These crimes heavily impact the precarious economic situation of the inhabitants, in a state that has been a perpetual incubator of poverty. In 2018, 7.8 million of the states 17 million residents were classified as poor and extremely poor by the National Council for the Evaluation of Social Development Policy (CONEVAL). By 2020, this number had risen to 9.7 million. The number of state residents without access to health services and nutritious food also increased. Mexican soldiers guard the municipal headquarters of Agua Amarga in the municipality of Coatepec Harinas, after it was taken over by locals, who were protesting a kidnapping. Cuartoscuro Insecurity and economic marginalization are the backdrop for this years gubernatorial election. Just this past May 19, six Morena canvassers were kidnapped in the municipality of Coatepec Harinas, in the south of the state, an area under the influence of La Familia Michoacana. Hours later, they were located and freed by the security forces. In that same municipality, back in March of 2021, cartel hitmen ambushed and murdered 13 state troopers in one of the bloodiest massacres in a country that has long been accustomed to news about violence. For more than a decade, much of the states territory has been under the control of La Familia, led by the Hurtado Olascoaga brothers: Johnny, known as El Pez, or the fish, and Jose Alfredo, known as El Fresa, or the strawberry -a way of referring to the upper-classes in Mexico, the equivalent of posh-. Its main stronghold is in Tierra Caliente, but it also has operations in the metropolitan municipalities adjacent to Mexico City. La Familia has a presence in 55 municipalities, or 44% of the vast territory of the state, where it controls the price of products such as pork, tortillas, eggs, tomatoes and chicken, as well as materials for the construction sector, according to a 2020 intelligence report cited by the online publication Animal Politico. The power of this criminal organization has been disputed for several years by the Jalisco Cartel, which, until three years ago, had a presence in 31 municipalities across Edomex. The territory most fought over by the CJGN is precisely the metropolitan belt the access point to the countrys capital. That struggle largely explains the high crime rates. According to the latest National Survey of Urban Public Safety conducted by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography, seven municipalities in the metropolitan area were listed among the places in the country where the majority of the population feels the most insecure, with between 60% and 80% of inhabitants expressing concern. Criminal cartographies are constantly being altered. In 2020, the Mexican government reported the detection of 26 active criminal organizations in the state surrounding the capital, ranging from powerful drug cartels to smaller criminal cells. In addition to La Familia and the CJNG, the intelligence services tracked operations of the New Empire Cartel a splinter group from the Sinaloa Cartel the Gulf Cartel, Los Caballeros Templarios, Guerreros Unidos, Los Beltran Leyva, Los Rojos, the Tepito Union and the Anti-Union Force. The latter two have recently emerged in Mexico City, after expanding their operations from the Valley of Mexico. At least 16 other criminal groups dedicated to drug trafficking, car jackings, extortion and kidnapping were also identified, including the Tlahuac Cartel, the Centro Cartel, the South Cartel, El Grupo, La Barredora and La Nueva Empresa, among others. In November of 2022, the state authorities and the Mexico City police announced other criminal organizations with operations in the metropolitan area that had not been mapped two years earlier: Los Peluches which has ties to the Caborca Cartel, a veteran group commanded by Rafael Caro Quintero La Nueva Alianza, formed by groups split off from La Union Tepito and the CJNG, as well as the Catalinos, the Gastones and the Rodolfos. A police operation following the murder of 13 state police officers on March 18, 2021, in the municipality of Coatepec Harinas. Crisanta Espinosa Aguilar (Cuartoscuro) La Familia Michoacana has an iron grip over the rural west and south of the state of Mexico, as well as in the municipalities surrounding Mexico City. The cartel which the PRI government of Enrique Pena Nieto (2012-2018) declared as having been dismantled and annihilated has not given up its criminal struggle, nor renounced its plans to expand. In December of last year, a video caused a stir: it showed men heavily armed and with their faces covered announcing the arrival of La Familia in the mayors office in Milpa Alta, in the rural south of Mexico City. This was a show of force to their adversaries and the authorities. The convergence of some thirty criminal organizations throughout the state largely explains the high crime figures and the position of Edomex as one of the most insecure states to live in. Economic impact In Mexico, extortion is the rather technical name for what is commonly known as cobra de piso or derecho de piso (literally translated as the cost of the floor or the right to the floor) a criminal tax exacted by criminal organizations from merchants of all sizes. Paying it supposedly allows them to keep their operations open and not be harmed by gang members. Edomex leads the nation in extortion it is the main crime reported by business people. In June of 2022, the newspaper Milenio declared that, in the south of the state one of La Familias strongholds the price of chicken, eggs, tortillas, cigarettes and construction materials were controlled by criminal groups. Jorge Penunuri president of the National Security and Justice Commission at the Employers Confederation says that there are around 700,000 small, medium and large companies in Edomex. In an interview with EL PAIS, he affirms that 72% of unionized business people have been the victims of extortion. Unfortunately, in every region, there are criminal cells and weve recently seen that theres a war between the cartels. Theyre fighting for control, its a war between drug traffickers, he explains. A forensics team works at the site where 13 state troops were ambushed, on March 18, 2021. Crisanta Espinosa Aguilar (Cuartoscuro) Penunuri explains that the Employers Confederation, the Ministry of Interior, the National Anti-Kidnapping Coordination and the Chamber of Deputies hold a regular working group, attempting to craft a law against extortion that will standardize this type of crime across all Mexican states. In some states, the prosecutors offices depending on the local penal code dont have [extortion] correctly classified. So, when the victim files a complaint of extortion, it can even be classified as a simple breach of trust. The idea is to standardize this crime, so that all prosecutors have an office that specializes in extortion. Then, we can have better results, Penunuri clarifies. The electoral context This newspaper has contacted the teams of the two candidates who are running for governor: Delfina Gomez who represents an alliance consisting of Morena, the Green Party and the Labor Party and Alejandra del Moral, from the Front for Mexico (PAN, PRI and PRD, the three oldest parties), in order to inquire about the candidates proposals to combat insecurity and violence in the state. Del Moral a close collaborator of the outgoing governor, Alfredo del Mazo proposes investing $85 million (or 1.5 billion pesos) into the construction of two new surveillance centers (known as C5s) and doubling the number of security cameras on public roads and public transit. Thus, across Edomex, there would be 20,000 new cameras. She also proposes hiring 10,000 new police officers, increasing their salaries, improving their training and equipment, strengthening their life insurance and housing programs, while also toughening surveillance of their performance. Her campaign team has specified that the cost of this initiative would be about $680 million, or 12 billion pesos. A third element of the PRIs security strategy would be to invest between $500 million and $1 billion to hire more prosecutors and judges over the duration of a six-year gubernatorial term. In her electoral platform, Gomez who has been mayor of the municipality of Texcoco and secretary of education at the federal level shares the same perspective as President Lopez Obrador on insecurity. She emphasizes that violence is a complex problem that is solved less with punitive actions than with opportunities for social development. For this reason, the Morenista candidate proposes to address the causes of violence through social programs for young people and families. She also plans to implement a cell phone application that works as a panic button to send an immediate alert to the authorities in high-risk situations and create a gender police force that coordinates with lawyers, psychologists and doctors to attend to cases of violence against women. Gomezs platform is also filled with proposed campaigns to prevent crime and addictions, train public officials and coordinate with the municipal and federal authorities. Regardless of who wins, the next governor will take charge of a state that is crumbling as a result of violence and crime. The plans and programs of past and present administrations both federally and locally, of all political affiliations have not been able to ensure that Edomex has a single day of peace. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Photo: ABC Despite his heavy involvement in one of the most successful shows on television, the allegations from his fellow cast and crew mates were Lost on showrunner Damon Lindelof. In an excerpt from the upcoming book, Burn It Down: Power, Complicity, and a Call for Change in Hollywood (out June 6), author Maureen Ryan interviewed various actors, writers, and crew members from the series on the alleged toxicity behind the scenes. Actor Harold Perrineau claimed that he was fired by Lindelof because he accused him of being racist numerous times. While recounting this story to co-workers during the production of Lost, Lindelof allegedly told them that he fired his ass. Lindelof told Ryan in 2022 that it broke his heart that that was Harolds experience and did not recall saying that, despite Ryan speaking to multiple witnesses. And Ill just cede that the events that youre describing happened 17 years ago, and I dont know why anybody would make that up about me, he shared. However, this wasnt the only incident Lindelof didnt remember; there were others in the piece that he seemingly forgot as well, like a hostile writers room and reported causal racism on set. Im telling you, I swear, I have no recollection of those specific things, he told the Burn It Down author. And thats not me saying that they didnt happen. Im just saying that its literally baffling my brain that they did happen and that I bore witness to them or that I said them. To think that they came out of my mouth or the mouths of people that I still consider friends is just not computing. Teamwork makes the dream work. Photo: HBO It took four seasons, but in finale With Open Eyes, Succession finally answered the question of who would succeed Waystar Royco titan Logan Roy, a definitive ending for a series that often toyed with major plot developments only to quickly toss them aside or never bring them up again. Long live Tom; may he enjoy his nice shirts and watches and never be called before a Senate investigating committee again. But if were focusing on the characters themselves rather than the plot machinations surrounding them which is what Succession ultimately did then there is one moment in With Open Eyes that remains appealingly ambiguous, its meaning dependent on how you view the Roy children, their individual goals, and why they did what they did. Lets roll the tape: Over an hour into the episode, Kendall, Roman, and Shiv now a united-front troika after much infighting over how to counter the seemingly irreversible deal to sell Waystar Royco to GoJo post up in their fathers office, the same place where Logan insulted, dismissed, abused, and harassed each of them. After Shiv leaves for last-minute chats with board members about their votes, Kendall and Roman remain in the office, and their next three minutes together include a fraternal embrace that is open to interpretation. Is it a moment of love or hatred? Protection or attack? Lets discuss what that hug between the two not-eldest brothers of the real Roy bloodline is about. Its about Roman Roman has always had a self-destructive edge, honed by years of physical and emotional abuse courtesy of Daddy Logan. After breaking down at Logans funeral not sure how Kieran Culkin doesnt win an Emmy for his anguished, sobbing delivery of Is he in there? Can we get him out? and being told by Kendall that he fucked the deal between the Roys and president-elect Jeryd Mencken, Roman dives into the swell of left-leaning protesters and then walks away from the scene. In the opening act of With Open Eyes, Romans missing and neither Shiv nor Kendall know where he is until Caroline calls to say hes at her vacation home in Barbados. The Roman we meet there is chastened, bitter, tired of the Roy sibling squabbling and uninterested in the deal as he stands up to Kendalls bullying in a way that feels rare and new. That doesnt last long, though, and the Roman who walks into his fathers office still decorated with Logans things, its glass walls providing a clear view of Gerri is as fragile and vulnerable as the Roman who crumbled when faced with his fathers coffin. Under those circumstances, it makes sense to read this as a scene in which Roman, increasingly distraught about being rejected as Logans successor, purposefully shoves his eyebrow stitches into Kendalls shoulder as a way to reopen his wound and lose himself in physical pain to match his emotional turmoil. Maybe theres a part of Roman that is harming himself subconsciously, while actively trying to save face: He tells Kendall that hes worried people will think he pussied out, and perhaps he thinks showing up to the meeting with flowing blood and those lingering signs of a physical altercation will convey some kind of toughness and regain him some measure of authority. Any psychological reasoning is possible with our guy, who has been increasingly unpredictable this season. But regardless of how cognizant or coherent Roman is, in this moment he expresses all his grief, trauma, and general fucked-upness in a way that hurts himself, and that tracks with everything we know about who Roman is. (Aside from all his quirky sits, which he does in this episode, too!) Its about Kendall The only thing Kendall has ever wanted to be is a better version of Logan Roy. As recently as a few months ago in the Succession timeline, he was swearing to his father, Youre corrupt and so is the world Im better than you I love you, but youre kind of evil. But Kendalls issue has always been that he cant really act distinctly different from Logan; he loves and fears and hates and respects his father too much. So many of Kendalls biggest moves have included mimicking what Logan would have done: getting aggressive with politicians in DC, dropping blackmail bombshells before a wall of reporters in This Is Not for Tears, boasting about exaggerated profit numbers to appease shareholders in Living+. The prevailing difference between father and son was that Kendall seemed to care for his family in a way that Logan didnt, defending his son Iverson from Logans abuse in I Went to Market, getting in between Logan and Roman after the former knocks out the latters tooth in Argestes, and often backing up Rava when she wanted their children to have very little to do with Logan. But the poison drips through, and after Logans death, Kendall picks up the mantle that he had rejected for so long. Think of how Kendall called his father a brute during his eulogy in Church and State, and then think of how Kendall grabs Roman during this embrace. Hes straight-armed and inflexible, clasping Roman to his shoulder and, midway through the hug, readjusting his hold on Romans head. Before this, Kendall had tried to comfort Roman, placate him with assurances that Roman could have been the guy on top if things had only been different. But the way Kendall grinds Romans forehead into his shirt is pure domination tactic, a way to pop Romans stitches and cause him some pain, a way to keep him in line with his vote. Its Michael Corleone kissing Fredo after confronting him about his betrayal of the family in The Godfather Part II; its Kendall taking over where his father left off in pushing Roman around; its everything Kendall swore he would never be; its the most heartbreaking moment of Succession. When Kendall grabs Roman again later during their conference-room fight, pushing him into the glass wall and lacing his fingers over Romans face, notice how Roman doesnt fight back for himself he only shoves Kendall when his older brother goes after Shiv. Thats Kendall becoming Logan in attacking Roman, and Roman becoming Kendall in defending another sibling, and its all very sad and very circular. Its about Logans ghost Kendall and Roman are in Logans office, and the place is full of bad vibes. Its practically Elsinore, haunted by Logans ghost and by his failed expectations for his children. Like that time Kendall and Roman wandered into their fathers office at home and were shocked by what he kept in there a cardigan, Sudoku puzzles, remnants of his after-hours normalcy the kings debris is everywhere, and the kids dont know how to deal with it. Consider how irritated Shiv looks when Kendall sits in Logans chair and puts his feet up on his fathers desk; consider how entranced Roman is by the mirrored tray on Logans sideboard, and how he uses it to keep prodding at his stitches. Director Mark Mylod cycles through shots of Logans stuff, from his Roman gladiator helmet to his framed Time magazine cover, and it feels suffocating even through the screen. In a place so suffused with Logans essence, how could Kendall and Roman not be uncomfortable, and not turn on each other because of that? Their grappling actually being each of them dueling Logans ghost I buy that. Its about the meal fit for a king Look, when your bratty younger brother crowns you with a blender full of such unappetizing ingredients as raw eggs (with shell!), ranch and Thousand Island dressing (I am shocked that Caroline would stock her house with either of these things), hot cocoa powder, Branston pickle (chunky vegetable chutney for non-Brits), frozen bread heels, and slices of honey ham, you must exact revenge on his head any way you can. Maybe there was nothing deeper to Kendalls actions than that! Its about the family way LOL, no, of course there are more meaningful motivations to Kendalls actions than a blender full of probably expired food items! Over and over, Succession has shown us that the only way the Roys know how to communicate with each other is through insults, violence, and humiliation, even when they want to communicate affection. Their love language is keeping each others secrets and joking about each others subjugation, and the little details that Jesse Armstrong and the creative team have sprinkled throughout the series emphasize how the Roy children bonded through absence: the emotional absence of Logan, the physical absence of Caroline. Shiv jokes about Logan abusing Roman; Roman jokes about jacking off to Shivs future breastfeeding; both of them mock Kendall for his addictions; for all three, Connors institutionalized mother is also fair game. The only way they know how to connect is through mockery, and games like Bitey or a meal fit for a king are about how much pain the Roy children can withstand from people who theoretically care for them. In that atmosphere, of course Roman would hurt himself, of course Kendall would hurt Roman, of course Logans specter would linger. Thats, as Shiv says to Caroline, the Roy family way: Something as simple as a hug is never as loving as it seems. The work of the French painter Edgar Degas titled for decades 'Russian Dancers' and which the National Gallery in London has re-catalogued as 'Ukrainian Dancers'. Universal History Archive (Universal Images Group via Getty) Anna Stavichenko says that she doesnt really like being considered a soldier of Ukrainian culture. I prefer to call it ambassadors of our country, because I am against this idea of putting us on a cultural frontline, when there is a real front and real soldiers. Stavichenko, 37, was the executive director of the Kyiv Symphony Orchestra. When the war broke out, she fled with her family to Poland. She began to think about how she could contribute to the defense of her homeland. First, she managed to introduce Ukrainian pieces into concerts performed by the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra; later she took the lead in a mission to bring compatriot refugee musicians to orchestras in France. The idea was to fight for the identity of Ukrainian culture against the Russian military steamroller. Art not only as a victim, but as a weapon. Stavichenko provides a very clear example: Everyone knows Tchaikovsky, Dostoevsky... because they had great promotion from Russia. Who knows the Ukrainian poet Taras Shevchenko? The French painter Edgar Degas is also well-known. The series of paintings he produced in Paris around 1899 entitled Russian Dancers has become a focal point for many defenders of Ukrainian cultural identity. Prominent among these is journalist and art historian Oksana Semenik, who exposes and develops daily cases of the Russification of art pieces of Ukrainian origin on social media. Semenik, in a conversation with EL PAIS from Kyiv, clarifies what she does: We do not fight for our identity, but to recognize our identity as independent and different from the Russian one. Among the first places to join this cultural offensive was the National Gallery in London. In April 2022, this British museum, in light of the situation in Ukraine, decided that it was the appropriate time to change the name of Degas Russian Dancers to Ukrainian Dancers, with online encyclopedia Wikipedia following suit. Explaining the decision, the gallery said there was no evidence that the painter identified the dancers as Russian a distinction attributed to the dealer Paul Durand-Ruel, who purchased the work from him. It has always been pointed out in the academic literature surrounding this work, the National Gallery said in a note sent to EL PAIS, that the dancers were in fact Ukrainian. National blue and yellow adorn the hair of the women portrayed. Stavichenko acknowledges that the Russian invasion is a war of identity. It is a war against who we are as a nation, she says. Thats why culture is so important, because with culture we can prove that we have existed for centuries. It was over a century ago that Degas noticed these women in traditional dress performing folk dances from Eastern Europe. He went on to dedicate nearly 20 paintings and drawings to them. After the National Gallery, the Metropolitan Museum of New York moved in, changing the title of one of the works in its catalog, but with a nuance: the Met opted for Dancer in Ukrainian Dress. A work by Degas in the National Museum of Stockholm also bears a different title. The Swedish gallery explains: When Edgar Degas created the paintings, Ukraine was part of the Russian Empire, and it is almost impossible to identify with certainty from which part of the empire the dancers of the dance company that traveled to Paris came from. They looked at the dresses specific to Ukrainian folklore, rather than the identity of the women, leading the museum to catalog the piece in its possession as Three Dancers in Ukrainian Dress. But this cultural front is broad and not every institution feels the need to change anything for the moment. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, has one of the paintings of the dancers in its possession but has retained its original title. Its director, Gary Tinterow, an expert on Degas, notes in an email that the painter was motivated by artistic exploration and with no intention of being ethnographically or culturally accurate. He admits that the costumes look Ukrainian, but says that in principle the museum tries to respect the titles given to works by artists or their relatives. The Ukrainian artists Zoya Laktionova (right) and Anna Stavichenko in Madrid. Inma Flores Decolonization is not new in the museum world, says Semenik, who was recently in Madrid at the invitation of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, which held a seminar entitled War against culture culture at war. Scholars have talked about British colonialism, the French empire and artifacts stolen from indigenous peoples, but its only now that people are starting to talk about Russian imperialism. The historian cites one example of success in the effort to recognize cultural identity: an exhibition recently held at the Thyssen-Bornemisza in the Spanish capital on Ukrainian modernism. It is enough to consider two artists to see the contrasts. The Thyssen presented Kazimir Malevich and Alexandra Ekster as representatives of the Ukrainian avant-garde. At the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the two are simply listed as Russian. Semenik recalls the time when he was studying Spanish: I could hardly find books by Ukrainian authors in Spanish, only Andrii Kurkov. But you can find translations of Dostoevsky or Tolstoy in bookstores, and you will see Anton Chekhovs plays in theaters. It is not because Russian literature is better than Ukrainian literature. It is because Russia can afford [to promote] it with oil and gas resources. Joining Stavichenko in Madrid was documentary film director Zoya Laktionova, a native of Mariupol. She agrees that the identity of her country is the target of the war launched by Russia. This is why I say that I am Ukrainian, that I have culture, she says. In Mariupol, for example the famous painter Arkhip Kuindzhi was born. He is Ukrainian, but Russia always says he is Russian, and I always fight against that. According to Laktionova, the New York Met has agreed to modify Kuindzhis description to Ukrainian, born in the Russian Empire. The museum even went a little further and included a note for the magnificent painting it possesses by the landscape artist, Red Sunset on the Dnieper: In March 2022, the Kuindzhi Art Museum in Mariupol, Ukraine, was destroyed in a Russian air raid. The Kuindzhi Art Museum is one of 256 cultural properties damaged by the Russian offensive that Unesco has managed to document since February 2022. As with Kuindzhi, other major art galleries are following suit with artists such as Ivan Aivazovsky and Ilya Repin, hitherto defined as Russian and now recognized for their Ukrainian origins. It is important for Ukrainian culture to be in European cultural programs, in concert halls, in museums, says Stavichenko. This way, the next time Russia wants to attack, it will be more complicated because the world will know who we are and the reaction will be immediate. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Une Comedie Romaine by Gilbert Halaby Maja Arte Contemporanea hosts Une Comedie Romaine, the first Roman solo show by the Lebanese artist Gilbert Halaby, from 1 June to 15 July. The exhibition features around 30 paintings created over the past two years in the painter's adopted city of Rome. Halaby paints scenes of life in the historic centre of the Italian capital, featuring images of priests, nuns and passersby, immortalised in coloured silhouettes. As Nora Iosia writes in the exhibition catalogue, Halaby's images play on Rome's "carpe diem" quality and the city's "blissful indifference to the passing of time or the changing seasons, a lasting trait, which makes its spaces unique in the world." The exhibition opens on Thursday 1 June at 17.00, for more details see gallery website. Cover image: Gilbert Halaby 'Frame me' (detail) Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share When was the last time the Belgians rescued large numbers of Americans or anybody? Well, they just did, sort of. Last week, Belgiums Data Protection Authority ruled that the country must stop sharing the private financial information of Americans living in Belgium with the US Internal Revenue Service. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight If that news item was below your radar, youre probably not one of the estimated 7 million Americans living outside the US, and certainly not one of the million or so accidental Americans. That term refers to people who have almost no connection to the US, and often dont even speak English, but somehow fell into US citizenship usually because mom happened to be in the US when they were born. What most Americans stateside dont know is that the US is unique in the way it torments its own expats including those accidental Americans with tax and compliance burdens. It is the only major country that taxes its citizens even if they permanently live abroad. Only Eritrea, a repressive dictatorship in the Horn of Africa, has something vaguely similar, a diaspora tax of 2% on emigres. As they say, you are the company you keep. Advertisement The problem with Americas citizenship-based taxation isnt necessarily that expats are double-taxed first in their country of residence, then again in the US. They can subtract the taxes they pay to their host countries on their American returns, so many expats dont actually owe anything to the IRS. But US expats still face filing and compliance burdens that are considered among the most onerous in the world. They must also fear draconian penalties even for innocent mistakes. For example, Americans with foreign financial accounts that is, those needed for ordinary life in their host country must report those to a part of the US Treasury Department called wait for it the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. In effect, the US criminalizes living abroad. Overseas Americans also have to file multiple other information returns, depending on what they own, whom they marry and so forth. If they happen to have a foreign mutual fund perhaps because their overseas employer put it by default in a retirement account they must fill out the dreaded Form 8621, which tax accountants consider insuperable and indeed sadistic. Advertisement This unique feature of basing taxation on citizenship rather than residence also means that whenever the US (like any other country) wants to go after domestic tax dodgers, it ends up ensnaring ordinary and law-abiding Americans overseas. Thats what happened with the Obama-era Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act, which forces non-US banks and brokers to report the financial information of US citizens and Green Card holders to the IRS. Because that obligation is costly and difficult for the banks, many increasingly refuse to serve American citizens altogether. This means some Americans including dual citizens whove lived in their country of choice for decades find themselves locked out of run-of-the-mill financial services. If US expats had political representation as a group, their travails would be a major scandal in American politics. But they dont. Accidental Americans, who by definition never lived stateside as adults and often dont even have Social Security Numbers, cant vote in the US. And even expats who are registered can only cast ballots in the last US state they lived in, even if they left decades ago. So expat voices are dispersed and ignored. Advertisement With no path to change through the ballot box, the struggle is instead wending its way through the courts, in America and elsewhere. Earlier this year, the US Supreme Court ruled, sensibly, that penalties for non-willful failure to correctly report foreign accounts on the so-called FBAR form should be assessed per report, not per account on each report. The difference can be huge the plaintiff in that case ended up owing $50,000, rather than the $2.72 million the government originally demanded. Meanwhile, a team around Marc Zell, an Israeli-American lawyer based in Jerusalem, will later this year file a clutch of cases that attack the constitutionality of citizenship-based taxation as such. One of several arguments will be that the current rules amount to invidious discrimination of expats as a group. Separately, Fabien Lehagre, president of the Association of Accidental Americans, is crowd-funding a multi-prong legal challenge against FATCA and citizenship-based taxation, with cases pending in France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and elsewhere in the European Union. Hes also behind the case that came before Belgiums Data Protection Agency. Advertisement That agency found that the blanket data sharing required of Belgian banks by FATCA was undifferentiated, maximalist and disproportionate. Translated, this means that FATCA seeks too much private information about Americans that isnt even relevant in sniffing out tax fraud. Americas extraterritorial laws therefore violate the EUs General Data Protection Regulation. Lehagre and other accidental Americans now hope that the Belgian decision will inspire other courts to follow. The best outcome would be that somebody, somewhere eventually declares Americas Eritrea-plus approach to taxing its own expats illegal. But theres another objective. As Zell, the lawyer in Jerusalem, points out, all these legal challenges are also meant to educate Americans at home about the unconscionable hassles their compatriots face just for living abroad. Theres simply no justification for this kind of blanket suspicion and discrimination of a life choice. Eventually, Congress, the Treasury and the IRS should admit that and then join the rest of the world by switching to residence-based taxation. Advertisement More From Bloomberg Opinion: The Kremlin Offers a Trump-Putin Ticket for 2024: Andreas Kluth WeWorks Woes Show Return-to-Office Is No Party: Lionel Laurent Your First Robot Butler Will Need Human Eyes: Parmy Olson This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Andreas Kluth is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering European politics. A former editor in chief of Handelsblatt Global and a writer for the Economist, he is author of Hannibal and Me. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion 2023 Bloomberg L.P. GiftOutline Gift Article Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share Taiwanese voters will do more than just choose their next president and legislature when they go to the polls in January 2024: They will help set the course for US-China relations for years to come. China sees its eventual control of the self-governed island off its shores as a national security issue and doesnt rule out the use of force to make it happen. The US has increasingly positioned itself as prepared to act to stop any such military move. Taiwanese voters could either fuel or dampen the mounting tensions. Their choice is between a ruling party determined to maintain Taiwans political independence, and an opposition that sees closer ties with China as the only viable path. 1. Why are tensions so high? China increasingly sees the US as abrogating its One China policy, which has been the basis of relations since 1979. Thats when Washington recognized the Beijing-based Peoples Republic as the sole legal government of China and ended formal diplomatic recognition of Taiwan without clarifying the US position on the islands sovereignty. While US officials say there is no change in policy, President Joe Biden has repeatedly said the US would come to the defense of Taiwan if it is attacked, breaking with a longtime stance known as strategic ambiguity. The Pentagon estimated in 2021 that China wants its military capable of overrunning Taiwan by 2027, though it didnt predict an invasion. Meanwhile, Chinas suppression of Hong Kongs pro-democracy movement in 2019, despite a promise to preserve the former British colonys autonomy, stoked fears about Chinas intentions for Taiwan. China staged one of the biggest military drills ever seen around the island late last year. People in Taiwan also view Russias attack on Ukraine which Chinese President Xi Jinping has avoided condemning as a sign of what could happen to them. The desire to take a hard line with China is a rare area of bipartisan agreement in Washington, where policymakers have sought to accelerate billions of dollars in arms shipments to Taiwan. Advertisement 2. What is Chinas claim? Taiwan was colonized by European and Asian powers for centuries, and its current status has been in dispute since the end of the Chinese Civil War in 1949. Thats when Chiang Kai-shek leader of the Nationalist Party that ruled China following the 1912 overthrow of the Qing dynasty fled to Taiwan, abandoning the mainland to Mao Zedongs Communists. Beijing has claimed sovereignty over Taiwan ever since. The island, which has a population today of 23 million, established a robust democracy and thrived under de facto American protection to become a critical supplier of high-technology goods including semiconductors, the key component in much of todays manufacturing. 3. Whats at stake in the election? President Tsai Ing-wen whos unable to run again because of term limits has long drawn Beijings ire with her contention that Taiwan is essentially already a sovereign nation, even if only a handful of countries recognize it. (China refuses diplomatic ties with those that recognize Taiwan.) Should her Democratic Progressive Party win, the US would retain a willing partner in its efforts to push back against China, and tensions could remain high. A victory by the opposition Kuomintang party could de-escalate tensions, for a while at least. With a party charter that calls for eventual unification, the Kuomintang is Chinas preferred negotiating partner. Still, the party knows that stance isnt widely shared by voters. Polls show most Taiwanese people are happy to maintain the deliberately ambiguous status quo rather than seek unification or formal independence. Advertisement 4. Whos running? Vice President Lai Ching-te is the ruling partys candidate. The Harvard-educated physician once described himself as a political worker for Taiwanese independence. Hes toned that down as Tsais deputy, however, and says his partys goals are to boost the economy and safeguard peace. The Kuomintang picked New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih, a popular local leader with little foreign policy experience. Hou has said he opposes Taiwanese independence, stating theres no legal basis for it. At the same time, he rejects Beijings one country, two systems formulation for bringing the island under its control. That was the hands-off policy Beijing had promised for Hong Kong. 5. How are China and the US approaching the election? Beijing has generally dialed back the pressure on Taiwan in recent months in whats seen as a bid to avoid alienating the public and perhaps boost the prospects of the Kuomintang. The partys strong showing in local elections in late 2022 gave its supporters hope that they could reclaim the presidency. Such a result would ease Beijings concerns that Taiwan is drifting further from its grasp and could prompt it to lower tensions. The US is expected to focus on calling for a free and transparent election without outside interference as close as itll likely get to a warning to China. Appearing to choose sides would be bad form and possibly counterproductive. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com 2023 Bloomberg L.P. GiftOutline Gift Article Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share HENDERSON, Ky. A man who escaped from a northwest Ohio prison earlier this month died from drowning, according to autopsy results released Wednesday. Bradley Gillespie, 50, was reported missing May 23 from the Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution in Lima along with another man who authorities said escaped alongside him. Authorities determined the two escaped by concealing themselves in a trash container. The other man, James Lee, 47, was caught the next day in Henderson, Kentucky, after a police pursuit of a stolen car the men were in ended in a crash and a foot chase, but Gillespie avoided capture. His body was spotted Sunday in the Ohio River, not far from the area where he was last seen. Henderson is a city across the river from Indiana and about 350 miles (560 kilometers) southwest of Lima. Advertisement The Henderson County coroners office released the preliminary autopsy results Wednesday and said toxicology results wont be available for several weeks. Gillespie was imprisoned since 2016 and was convicted of a double homicide. Lee was serving a sentence imposed in 2021 for burglary and safecracking. A major and three corrections officers at the prison have been placed on paid administrative leave, and similar action may be taken against others as the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections internal investigation continues, officials have said. A criminal investigation by the Ohio State Highway Patrol is also ongoing. GiftOutline Gift Article Comment on this story Comment Gift Article Share JOHANNESBURG The Russian and Chinese foreign ministers are expected to meet with their counterparts from the BRICS economic bloc in Cape Town on Thursday, a precursor to a larger summit of developing nations leaders in South Africa in August that Russian President Vladimir Putin may attend while under indictment by the International Criminal Court. South Africa has suggested without saying explicitly that it won't arrest Putin, if he decides to travel for the main BRICS summit in Johannesburg, despite being obliged to do so as a signatory to the ICCs Rome treaty. BRICS is a bloc of emerging economies made up of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, and their leaders, including Chinas Xi Jinping, have been invited to the Aug. 22-24 summit. Any Putin trip and the Kremlin hasnt said if he will attend would focus more attention on South Africas relationship with Moscow. There are clear concerns in the West that Africas most developed economy is aligning with Russia and pulling other developing countries along with it at a time of heightened global tensions. Advertisement Those concerns burst into the open earlier this month when the U.S. ambassador to South Africa called a news conference in Pretoria and accused the country of supplying weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine. The South African government has denied the allegation, but the visit of a Russian cargo ship to South Africas top naval base near Cape Town in December is under investigation. While South Africa hasnt yet stated its official position with regard to the arrest warrant for Putin, its foreign ministry said Tuesday that those traveling for Thursdays meeting of BRICS foreign ministers and the leaders who attend the main summit in three months time would be afforded standard diplomatic immunity. But the privileges do not override any warrant that may have been issued by any international tribunal against any attendee of the conference, foreign ministry spokesman Clayson Monyela said, an indirect reference to Putin. Advertisement It means the ICC arrest warrant would still be applicable if Putin visits in August, even if it is highly unlikely that South Africa would arrest him. The Russian president hasnt traveled to any country that is part of the international court treaty since he was indicted in March for war crimes relating to the abduction of children from Ukraine. Away from Putin, the main summit of BRICS leaders could be one of the most important in the blocs short history, analysts say. There could be movement on two critical issues: BRICS could be expanded to admit new members like Saudi Arabia, Iran and United Arab Emirates. The bloc might also adopt a resolution on creating a BRICS currency. Those moves within a group containing Russia and China might be seen as a direct economic challenge to the U.S., said William Gumede, an associate professor at the School of Governance at Johannesburgs University of the Witwatersrand and a BRICS analyst. Advertisement BRICS could look very different ... and (it) would just change the dynamics of world power, Gumede said. BRICS officials said in April that at least 19 countries including major oil producers Saudi Arabia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates have applied to become members. South Africa Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor has also confirmed that a BRICS currency will be discussed. The discussions might start this week when Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang meet with Pandor and other counterparts from Brazil and India. Although there are complications with introducing a common currency in countries with vastly different economic setups, Gumede said a formal decision to pursue it could still be seen as a major political statement and an attempt to start the de-dollarization of parts of the world. Advertisement The U.S. would have to respond, one way or another, Gumede said. The BRICS gatherings follow a summit of the Group of Seven leaders in Japan that was dominated by the U.S. and the worlds other advanced economies extending sanctions against Russia as punishment for its full-scale invasion of Ukraine and finding ways to counter the economic policies of China. While accusing South Africa of giving arms to Russia and going against its stated neutrality in the war in Ukraine, U.S. Ambassador Reuben Brigety also referred to the countrys hosting of the upcoming BRICS meetings and how they had been framed by some within the bloc as the counterpoint to the G-7, the meeting of the other side. Brigety gave notice that the U.S. was watching. Our officials expressed quite serious concern of the explicit articulation of the BRICS configuration as a, quote, counterpoint to the G-7, Brigety said. Of course, South Africa is free to choose its diplomatic and economic partners however it chooses and so is the United States of America. This is not a matter of bullying as I often hear in this context. Its not a matter of threatening. This is how any relationship works. ___ Gerald Imray reported from Cape Town. ___ More AP news: https://apnews.com/ GiftOutline Gift Article In the selfie, Arwal appears with a shy smile, a brightly colored shirt and his braided hair pulled back, posing next to a little boy with a soda in his hands. The image was posted Sunday night by his brother, Angelo, on a public Facebook group. It was accompanied by a brief description and a direct request: Arwal has been missing since war broke out in Sudan between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in mid-April in the countrys capital, Khartoum, so any information that can be provided about him would at least be a lead to follow to try and find him. Two days earlier, one of the groups administrators highlighted the case of another young man named Muhammad Abdulrahim, who was arrested by RSF paramilitaries last week as he was returning home after accompanying a group of wounded neighbors out of Khartoum to seek treatment at a hospital. Those close to him still know nothing of his whereabouts. As the weeks go by and the fighting in Sudan continues with no sign of letting up, the tragedy not only of the hundreds of dead, thousands of wounded, and hundreds of thousands of displaced, but also of those who have gone missing, is becoming more and more evident. The situation has been exacerbated by the absence of the government and by the insecurity that reigns in the areas where the fighting is concentrated, such as Khartoum and the Darfur region, where paramilitaries have been deployed in force and are spreading terror. Since April 15, when fighting broke out between the Sudanese Army and the RSF, through May 20, 229 cases of missing persons have been documented, according to a tally made by a local online initiative dedicated to helping find people who are unaccounted for. Most of the missing are men aged 20 to 35, and about 15 are minors. Only 35 have returned to their families after going missing, while six others have been found dead. The vast majority of the disappearances have taken place in Khartoum: some 200 of those people who have gone missing were last seen in the capital. In many cases they vanished after being arrested or running into RSF paramilitaries, who control much of the city and have formed strongholds in many residential areas and buildings. Due to the chaos into which the Khartoum area has been plunged, the Missing Initiative has warned that it is very difficult to keep track of the actual number of people affected. As with the death toll from the fighting, which now stands at more than 700, it is feared that the real number is much higher than those that have been documented. Civil society campaigns such as the Missing Initiative also have limited resources, but it is primarily these types of organizations that are filling the gaps left by state agencies. In the case of missing persons, a key means of organization is social networks, to which families and friends are turning for information about their loved ones. The number of cases is becoming so high that the International Committee of the Red Cross has also decided to provide a telephone number where help can be sought. The Rapid Support Forces have an intentionally weak chain of command, operate with great autonomy, are very experienced in urban battles and have a long history of human rights violations. In recent weeks, multiple accounts of RSF fighters raiding houses and carrying out targeted arrests have also been emerging. Smoke rises above buildings after an aerial bombardment during clashes between the paramilitary RSF and the Sudanese Army in Khartoum, May 1, 2023. MOHAMED NURELDIN ABDALLAH (REUTERS) RSF detention centers A former member of the Islamist National Congress Party of former dictator Omar al-Bashir, who was deposed in a 2019 coup and with whom the paramilitaries are openly at odds, stated on his Facebook profile on Sunday that he was arrested and tortured in mid-May and held in a secret RSF detention center with between 200 and 300 others. Although the Sudanese Army does not have much of a presence in the capital, there have also been reports of civilian detentions on its part since the start of the war. In addition to those who have disappeared into detention centers, there are many who have died without their bodies being recovered or identified. Organizations such as the Missing Initiative and the Sudanese Red Crescent have reported large numbers of unidentified bodies in the streets of Khartoum, in the hospitals that are still operational, in morgues and buried in graves. Although the number of missing persons has accelerated rapidly since the outbreak of fighting in April, the Sudanese civilian population has been grappling with this crisis for years. During the violent eviction of an encampment set up in Khartoum in June 2019 to demand a civilian government after the two now warring parties seized power in a coup detat, dozens of people went missing and their fate has never been clarified. Similarly, after the coup that the army and RSF paramilitaries jointly carried out at the end of 2021 to put an end to the democratic transition launched two years earlier, numerous disappearances were documented, especially after protests were held. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Loading Many Australians find this hard to process. Marles addresses these contradictions by pointing to the immense complexity in a relationship unsuited to simplistic platitudes. He is dead right. It is tough to defend efforts to stabilise a relationship with a country many Australians have been conditioned in recent years to view as an existential threat. The difficulty of the strategic circumstances facing Australia is undeniable. No one should doubt the necessity to develop a powerful Australian Defence Force (ADF). Any sensible country would do this. But how this goal is articulated and explained is important to our own people and to our neighbours from whom we seek support for our diplomatic efforts in the region. Australias portrayal of China in hawkish terms goes beyond the language used by other regional countries, whose proximity and history of maritime and other disputes with China would, one assumes, lead them to feel more threatened than us. Marles is correct on the size of Chinas military build-up. But the other side of the equation is that Chinas economic growth has been the greatest of any country in modern history (its GDP is now 50 times greater than 30 years ago). Shanghai is a commercial and retail hub. Chinas economy has boomed in the last few decades. Credit: Bloomberg During this time, the annual growth in its defence spending has been steady at around 1.7 per cent, and China still spends far less than the US. Given Chinas rapidly expanding global economic interests, and its dependence on maritime transport (90 per cent of its merchandise trade goes by sea), it is unsurprising that it has built a formidable navy. As an island continent, Australia (and for that matter, the US) will see its security environment very differently from that of China, which has some 20 land and maritime neighbours. It would be surprising in these circumstances, indeed ahistorical, if China did not develop a formidable military. This is an inconvenient truth Australia must face. The claims, reinforced by ADF chief Angus Campbell in Senate estimates on Tuesday, that China has lacked transparency in building its military and has failed to provide assurances to the region about its motives are strange. China has often proclaimed its peaceful intentions. Xi Jinpings own speeches over the past decade have emphasised this. Xi Jinping is the first Chinese leader to have cemented a third term in power since Mao Zedongs rule ended in 1976. Credit: In 2015, Xi told the Boao Forum that no country that has tried to achieve its goals through force has succeeded. While it would be reassuring if Xi said this about Taiwan and Ukraine, nonetheless he said it. Xi has repeatedly declared China wont engage in aggression or expansion but is confident it can defeat any aggressor. Chinas military build-up is thus cast as defensive not aggressive (build the PLA into a wall of steel). It is wise to question when Xi speaks like this but no more so than when other leaders say similar things. Chinas own experience with wars in the past 70 years has been limited: Korea in 1952, the inept strike against Vietnam in 1979, and border battles with India and Russia in the 1960s. Loading None of this is a reliable guide to whether China will undertake military actions against other countries in the future, but it does suggest China prefers other means to achieve its goals, such as utilising economic influence. Chinas trillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative is a case in point. Nothing would do more to destroy this program than military adventures. Marles is correct; China doesnt lend itself to simplistic platitudes. A good way forward would be for the government to present the security environment being shaped by China in realistic rather than hawkish terms. In the current atmosphere of extreme mistrust between the US and China language matters. Students at some of Perths top public schools have had their enrolments cancelled after it was revealed their parents falsely claimed they lived in the same catchment zone as the school. WAtoday obtained documents showing at least 10 families have had their childrens enrolments cancelled or questioned due to catchment fraud at nine of Perths most sought-after public high schools over the past five years. Applecross Senior High School, which has a local intake area stretching west to Alfred Cove and Myaree, east to Mount Pleasant, and south to Booragoon, dealt with the most catchment fraud cases, having handled three over five years. It shares optional intake areas with Melville Senior High School, which handled one case of catchment fraud, and Rossmoyne Senior High School, which dealt with two cases. Kyiv: It is not only Muscovites who would have been shocked by the large-scale drone strike on the Russian capital on Tuesday. Western observers have doubted whether Kyiv could threaten the city 500 kilometres from its border. But Ukraine has long been developing its own equivalent of Russias Iranian-supplied Shahid 136 suicide drones, which have been flung at Kyiv time and again in recent months. Smoke rises from Kursk airport in Russia in December 2022 as Moscow blamed Ukraine for launching missile strikes well into Russian territory. Credit: AP A source in Ukrainian military intelligence, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that there were multiple independent teams of Ukrainian engineers developing their own versions of the munition. Rome: You can expect to queue in the Eternal City, especially in late spring. Lines in the midday sun often stretch for hundreds of metres at the Vatican, the Pantheon or the Colosseum as tourists pay homage to some of the worlds most famous ancient sites. Rome, however, was perhaps the last place in the world youd expect to find a queue at Starbucks, in a country renowned as Europes coffee capital and long considered off-limits to the mega American chain notorious for its sweet, milky, frothy lattes and frappuccinos in large pots. People queue for service at the new Starbucks in Rome. Credit: Rob Harris But tourists and natives alike now queue sometimes for up to an hour to get a taste of the world-famous brand at a refurbished two-storey building on Via della Guglia, opposite the Italian parliament building, Palazzo Montecitorio, in the heart of Romes political and historic centre. The menu features Starbucks controversial Oleato a cocktail of coffee and virgin olive oil which Italians would usually put on their bruschetta. But even Lorenzo Cresci, the food critic for one of Italys oldest newspapers, La Stampa, is open to such disruption. He recently rated the Oleato golden foam cold brew a 6.5 out of 10, saying overall, it can be appreciated. To continue reporting on the ground in Nicaragua, an anonymous journalist has had to erase himself from the map: nobody can know what he does for a living, the stories he files have no byline, and he lives on permanent alert, fearing that a source will betray him or that the government will identify and go after him, just like it has done with around 200 reporters who have ended up in jail or gone into exile in recent years. In El Salvador, a female journalist has been diagnosed with ailments related to living under constant persecution. Because of her work she has been spied on, robbed, and made to feel threatened. And in Guatemala, an editor and radio host ended up in exile after legal cases were mounted against him in a country that has launched a campaign against critical voices, including prosecutors and judges fighting against corruption. These three journalists all have something in common: faced with a reality that closes in on them, they continue to resist. Across Central America which is experiencing a rise in authoritarian regimes that criminalize freedom of the press reporters have become the enemies of power. Three journalists told us what its like to work in the Nicaragua of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, in El Salvador under Nayib Bukele, and to report from exile about Guatemala, where the state powers appear to have a unwritten agreement to crack down on anti-corruption fighters and critical voices. In this challenging environment, the internet and social media have become allies in these reporters fight against censorship. (The testimony provided by the Nicaraguan journalist is anonymous for security reasons.) Nicaragua: Writing while ready with a packed suitcase to flee Ortegas regime Anonymous testimonial: Officially I dont even exist Idalia Candelas Under the table where I usually write, I have my suitcase packed. I keep it there, touching my feet, in case I ever receive a call one day (I hope to receive it in time) alerting me to the fact that the Nicaraguan police want to arrest me, as has been the case with at least 10 journalists and media executives who have been imprisoned since protests against the regime broke out in April 2018, or that one of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillos operators is out looking for me. Most of my colleagues who have been convicted were accused of spreading false news or betraying the homeland two pieces of legislation passed in 2020 to criminalize critical voices. In my suitcase there are some spare clothes, personal hygiene products, a computer and my most important documents: passport, vaccination card, and a document from the hospital that proves that Im a chronically-ill patient who suffers from hypertension and heart disease. If Im ever captured, at least I will have proof that I need my daily pills, since several political prisoners have denounced that they dont receive the medicines they require in prison. I think or I want to believe that having my suitcase ready can save me a few minutes, that it will help me if I have to hide in a safehouse for a few days, or if I definitely have to flee Nicaragua, crossing the border through blind spots so as not to be jailed, as did 185 Nicaraguan journalists who have gone into exile since 2018. Just last week, a source confirmed to me that a new group of 11 journalists was in the process of fleeing the country. Im not a criminal or a fugitive from justice. Im one of the few journalists left in Nicaragua, trying to tell the story about what is happening here from within, on the ground. But Im also aware that, at some point, I could be accused by the institutions whose job it is to impart justice in this country, but which are, in reality, controlled like puppets by the presidential couple. Theres even the possibility that they will strip me of my citizenship, as they did with some 20 journalists in February of this year. As a Nicaraguan journalist, this is my reality. Since I first started working in the media about 10 years ago, my career in journalism hasnt been easy. Back then, we had problems regarding freedom of expression and information that were similar to what was being experienced by colleagues in the region. But as a result of the 2018 protests when the regime perpetrated a massacre against the citizens who took to the streets to demand the resignation of Ortega and Murillo the journalists who covered and documented these crimes suddenly became adversaries, targets to be attacked. Harassment against journalists has intensified over the last year. In July 2022, police officers raided the homes of journalists from the newspaper La Prensa. The reason: they had reported on a group of nuns being expelled from the country. It was simple coverage of one of the many attacks against the Catholic Church, another one of the regimes targets. According to the official narrative, the massive demonstrations of 2018 were an attempted coup concocted by the bishops, the United States, entrepreneurs, a few NGOs and dissident Sandinistas. According to official propaganda, within this supposed scheme, independent journalists are dedicated to spreading fake news to manipulate public opinion. This has reached such a point that the statements of politicians or citizens in independent media or international news outlets have been collected as evidence, to be used in trials against dozens of political prisoners. Last July, when police officers searched for La Prensa reporters, they also went to the homes of journalists from other media outlets. This was the first time I packed my suitcase and went to live in other peoples homes for two months. I didnt see my family and I refused invitations from friends. I couldnt go anywhere. For Nicaraguan journalists, this was a watershed moment: now, were aware that even going out reporting can land us in jail. I returned home when I felt like I could. This fragile feeling of security is an act of faith, like others that I cling to in order to continue reporting and living under these conditions. What frustrates me the most is not being able to do street reporting: going places, talking to people, interviewing public officials. In other words, doing my job without fear, and with sources also not afraid to express themselves. With justifiable reasons, fear has gripped everyone in Nicaragua, where a mere statement or mention in the media can land you in jail. In recent months, Ive been scared to consult sources who I dont know well. Im afraid that one of them may be a sympathizer of the Sandinista Front the ruling party and denounce me for being a journalist. Ive continued reporting, but less and less and with much more planning. I take special precautions that I cannot detail here, because it would put the few remaining journalists in Nicaragua at risk. But I know that no security protocol is foolproof. On more than one occasion, due to the adrenaline of stepping out on the street, Ive found myself in conversation with the wife of a police officer, with a retired soldier, or with a member of the Sandinista party. Luckily, the interactions havent gone any further no one has ratted me out or denounced me for being a journalist. I dont want to resign myself to doing journalism locked in a room, but I have to accept that its increasingly dangerous to go out. With each passing day, it gets more complicated to do my job. I dont know how many journalists are left in the country. Several of us who still remain have chosen to tell other colleagues who we dont really trust that weve stopped working in this profession. Were all alert and suspicious. A week ago, in a raid, some colleagues were captured. At that time I moved to a safe house, in case the authorities came looking for me too. But they never showed up, and thats why Im still in the country. I think the most effective security protocol is to disappear. Im referring to a measure that all Nicaraguan journalists have taken: no longer putting our names in the byline of our articles. Weve stopped publishing our photographs and personal information on social media; we dont share news that is critical of the regime, and we try not to attend even virtually any event that has been organized by journalism associations. Initially, it was difficult to accept that I cannot travel to any journalism festival, nor to a workshop outside the country even less so to receive any prize, because officially, I dont even exist. I try hard to go unnoticed. Many critics of the regime are in a kind of national jail, due to the tight controls in place at the borders and the airport. Journalists are prohibited from leaving our passports are taken away if we are identified by our profession. Its the price we have to pay to still be with our families and meet up with friends every once in a while for a few beers. Another security measure I have taken is that I never work in any office, after several media facilities were seized by the regime. I write in a room that has a window, through which I can see the roofs of neighboring houses. Through the window, in the afternoon, the sun shines directly onto the desk where I work, under which I keep my suitcase. These days, my city is experiencing a heat wave of more than 41C (100F), which prevents me from working in the afternoons. Despite the discomfort, my biggest concern is that I wont get a warning call in time Im afraid that it will be too late by the time I realize that the regimes operatives are about to raid my house. Being captured has been one of my most recurring nightmares in the early hours of the last few months, when I wake up with a start. My family has internalized this fear so much that they suggested an emergency escape, which consists of climbing a ladder to get out a window and reach the neighbors roof. In one of those houses, the dwellers know that I could enter at any time, through a hole. It is a getaway just like the ones that Pablo Escobar, the Colombian drug lord, used to make in the 1980s. I find it funny, and dont see myself running away in the style of a narco movie. But, as time goes by, I have the feeling that I am committing a crime by doing journalism. Because in Nicaragua, journalists are persecuted more vigorously than drug traffickers. El Salvador: Reporting (and living) under constant persecution By Julia Gavarrete (El Faro): The wear-and-tear keeps intensifying and its one of the ways to keep us quiet Idalia Candelas I dreamed that they raped me. On that early morning in August 2020, I remember waking up, crying, feeling a deep oppression in my chest. I also remember the silhouettes, the struggles on my bed and the screams. Everything was very confusing; I felt unable to differentiate reality from the dream. That morning was the first time I wrote about this. In the middle of a panic attack, I took an old notebook and wrote everything down. I did it because I was trying to convince myself that none of this had happened. On July 2, 2020, a few weeks before that dream, they broke into my house while I was at a press conference that the Ministry of Health gave at the National Palace. We were in full lockdown, due to the Covid-19 restrictions. When I came back home just a couple of hours later, I found my room in a mess. They had broken in, but the only thing of value they took was my laptop. I filed a report with the Prosecutors Office, asking the authorities to investigate, but no progress was ever made. The robbery triggered a series of recurring dreams. I felt that I had to protect my space even more, protect myself, but also all the people I love. Over and over again, I have dreamed that theyre breaking into my house. And, at the very moment when Im trying to find out who the intruder is, I wake up. Ive never believed that the robbery was a coincidence. Years later, in January 2022, we published a piece in El Faro that revealed that our investigative outlet had been the target of espionage by Pegasus the Israeli software that is only sold to governments. After Citizen Lab [at the University of Toronto] and [the not-for-profit] Access Now analyzed the devices being used by me and my colleagues, they determined that 22 members of our newspaper had been surveilled by the spyware. We learned the exact dates on which those cyberattacks occurred. At that moment, I reaffirmed what I have always believed: nothing is circumstantial. The day my computer was stolen, my colleague Carlos Martinez was slandered by a webpage that is part of the media machine controlled by the ruling party, from which the government of Nayib Bukele churns out propaganda, launches attacks against independent journalism and defames reporters with impunity. The same day of the robbery, the Ministry of Finance also began an audit against El Faro a process that the president has used to accuse the newspaper of money-laundering. Due to this institutional harassment, El Faro moved its administrative and legal structure to Costa Rica, due to the inadequate conditions in El Salvador. In an editorial, the outlet noted: We are leaving so we can stay. It is a decision that seeks to protect the kind of journalism we do. There are many other media outlets that are resisting these attacks and threats; journalists who are documenting evidence of abuse of power, even when the authorities can intimidate us with a single tweet, by withholding our identification documents, or by using the rule of law as a weapon. Despite all of this, we continue to do our work. Independent journalism in El Salvador faces a clear declaration of war. President Bukele, his government officials, his henchmen are intensifying their attacks and threats whenever journalism does its job, which is that of monitoring the decisions of those who govern us. The records kept by the Association of Journalists of El Salvador speak for themselves: there are consistently more and more attacks against journalists. The government firmly defends that, in El Salvador, there is freedom of the press because there are no dead journalists. So, why doesnt the government investigate who surveilled us with Pegasus spyware? This software was also found on the phones of journalists from other parts of the world around the time they were killed. The negligence of the government has led some members of El Faro to sue NSO Group in a US court. We simply want to know who is behind the espionage. We know that, in El Salvador, we will never find answers, as the only ones issuing from the government come with reforms that legalize espionage and seek to expedite the tapping of communications. But there are many others being added to the existing legal framework in order to censor us, persecute us, accuse us and arrest us. The Legislative Assembly controlled by Bukeles party recently approved a gag law that allows journalists and media executives to be jailed for up to 15 years if they broadcast messages from gangs that generate anxiety in the general public. While the government insists that no journalist has been imprisoned, it has the means to do so whenever it wants. They say that, in El Salvador, freedom of the press is respected. However, the public spaces gained since the signing of the peace accords [which brought the Salvadoran Civil War to an end in 1992] are being censored. Its useless to measure freedom of expression and of the press based on whether or not journalists have been murdered. We can clearly see how the government silences the voice of the citizenry, as people are frightened of being attacked on social media, or going to jail in a country where there is no more independence of powers and where a state of exception is applied against anyone considered to be a criminal, with no guarantees of a legal defense. There will always be those who, despite everything, speak up and denounce abuse. This allows us to continue resisting the intimidating attacks and espionage to which we are subjected. I know that this has high costs: it damages physical and mental health, resulting in hours spent on medical visits and psychotherapy. Among colleagues, we share this feeling: that the wear-and-tear keeps intensifying and that its one of the ways to keep us quiet. A few days ago, I visited my doctor. I did some tests to identify some health problems that Ive been having. Everything seems to be fine, but my body says otherwise. For some reason, not even the lysine clonixinate, cyclobenzaprine, or tizanidine that I have been prescribed for over a year have had any effect. There is a direct effect to living under constant persecution, the doctor informs me, explaining why he believes my brain is on high alert at all times. Guatemala: From exile, telling the story of a country that criminalizes judges and journalists Juan Luis Font, ConCriterio: Every day, I host my radio show with the determination not to give in to those who would like to silence me Idalia Candelas I went into exile on April 1, 2022. At the time, I refused to accept that it was a trip of no return. From France my first stop I felt the urgency to return to Guatemala to be near my mother, whose terminal cancer was advancing relentlessly. Im 56 years old, and Ive dedicated 33 of those years to journalism, as a reporter and media director. In February 2021, the Special Prosecutors Office against Impunity under the management of Rafael Curruchiche, a prosecutor considered to be a corrupt and undemocratic actor by the U.S. government began an onslaught against former prosecutors and judges who had prosecuted corruption cases in Guatemala. In October, thanks to a tip, I learned that an accusation was being prepared against me. Prosecutor Curruchiche had gone to a jail to take a statement from an imprisoned former minister of public works accused of different cases of corruption. The former minister claimed to have bribed me to obtain complacent coverage. He hasnt offered a single piece of evidence to support his false accusation. In fact, my colleagues and I frequently published reports that revealed gross corruption in the Ministry of Public Works, from overvaluation of contracts, to supposedly dredged rivers that still overflowed despite the expensive work. Several of these journalistic investigations were the starting point for trials and convictions in Guatemala. Faced with the accusation, I offered a full disclosure of my net worth and earnings, which included bank statements and credit card reports. The Prosecutors Office initially filed my case, but this was later revoked. Public prosecutors named me in at least four other cases as a suspect, but filed no charges against me. My situation is not unique. Michelle Mendoza, Sonny Figueroa, Marvin del Cid, Carlos Choc all independent journalists have also suffered similar persecution. The Guatemalan justice system which is currently co-opted has also trapped Jose Ruben Zamora in an endless legal process. The founder of elPeriodico a newspaper that I directed for 17 years Zamora has not had access to a fair trial. He has had to change lawyers a dozen times. Four of his defense attorneys and three of the witnesses his defense team has called have been brought to trial. The last time I spoke to Zamora was in May 2022, when he was still free. He urged me not to return to Guatemala. Ignoring him, I entered the country clandestinely. I hid in my own house for three months; I would go out at night to my parents apartment. I was broadcasting my radio show via Zoom while pretending I was abroad, using a VPN to hide the source of my transmission. On July 27, 2022, when Zamora was detained, I left the country again. My mother died two weeks after I left. Since then, I have lived between the United States and Mexico, without requesting asylum or refuge. I refuse to think of a long period without returning to Guatemala. I do my radio show every day, determined not to give in to those who would prefer to silence my voice. Ours is a discussion program on the Guatemalan political reality. Its raw and confrontational, because one of my colleagues is aligned with the groups that have all the power in the country. My two fellow broadcasters like me have not been paid since January. The patronage of Guatemalas large capital groups shifted away as the fight against impunity and corruption progressed. State advertising only reaches those who are subservient to the government. In the meantime, Ive agreed to work in an advisory capacity to cover my expenses. I also hope to get a study grant that will give me some stability. Im working on creating a media outlet aimed at Central Americans living in the United States. In my country today, there are two principal threats to journalism and independent justice. The first is retaliation for the actions carried out by the United Nations Commission against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG) between 2006 and 2019, which had the support of the Prosecutors Office at that time. The findings of the CICIG eventually led to the imprisonment of a president and a vice president, while resulting in accusations against some of the richest people in the country. It also coincided with an unprecedented judiciary-led collection of unpaid taxes. There were entrepreneurs who after years of evading taxes had to pay up to $100 million to the Treasury overnight. In Guatemala, wealth is concentrated in the hands of very few people. One in two children suffers from chronic malnutrition, while the country lacks a public health or education system that can offer hope to the poorest. In a country of 18 million people, four million Guatemalans like myself have fled to the United States. The political power furious with the anti-corruption actions ultimately expelled the CICIG, took control of the courts and other legal institutions and reinstated the attorney general who had been covering up the corruption. The latter has since removed the prosecutors who investigated mismanagement, preventing them from delving into serious accusations, such as the allegation that the incumbent Guatemalan president financed part of his election campaign with public funds. That same power is currently manipulating the electoral process to install a new representative of its alliance in the presidency later this year. After the fallout from the CICIGs findings, the second major threat in Guatemala is a concerted effort to stall the cases involving senior military officials some of whom are linked to major capital groups for serious human rights violations that were committed during the Guatemalan civil war (1960-1996). The independent press like the former prosecutors and judges who have been forced to leave the country under the threat of imprisonment is being persecuted for bolstering these two processes, which are searching for justice and democracy and are detested by those who benefit from the old system. As for me, its hard to see myself doing anything other than journalism. I would be ashamed to keep quiet about what I understand and what I see, just as I am ashamed and hurt by the anger that my children feel towards our own country. Credits Project coordination and editing: Lorena Arroyo Audiovisual coordination: Hector Guerrero Illustrations: Idalia Candelas Design and programming: Alfredo Garcia A few years ago, in the staff room of his high school in Surrey, England, Matt Pinkett was discussing a poem with his female colleagues of the department of language and literature. Somehow the talk veered towards the complexes that boys have during adolescence. You are men. All you think about is sex and the size of your penis, one of them blurted out. She was joking, but it seemed so reductionist (and so widespread) that he kept ruminating on it until it became a ball. After spitting it out, Pinkett came to the realization that this masculine stereotype was still valid among people who were not necessarily sexist. Many of his colleagues, progressive women and feminists, had not moved on from the old concepts about the problems and concerns of male teenagers. In recent years, essays, debates and cultural artifacts have redefined what it means to be a woman in the 21st century, but few have considered the place of men in this new world. What problems affect them, specifically. Why they are three times more likely to die by suicide. Why they have fewer close friends. What leads them to commit more violent crimes at an overwhelming rate. From all these questions a first book emerged, Boys Dont Try? (2019), an initial approach to the mental health of young boys. Now, Pinkett delves into the subject with a second essay, Boys Do Cry. In it, the author draws on his 12-year experience as a high school and sociological studies teacher to explain the problems of teenage boys and gives advice to teachers and parents to help improve their mental health, reaching striking conclusions, such as that kids need to be open to the prospect of having a bromance. Boys need to hug each other, say that they love each other, as their female classmates do by nature. Resorting to literary examples, he cites Frodo and Sam from The Lord of the Rings, or Watson and Holmes, as good examples of this kind of friendship. On the other hand, he mentions James Bond as a model of outdated, lonely masculinity, for whom romance means conquest; a model reinforced by pornography and taken to the extreme by misogynist influencers like Andrew Tate. Beyond condemning these ideas, in his essay Pinkett tries to understand why they are successful. How the internet can become the breeding ground for rape culture. How poor anger management during adolescence can lead to suicide in adulthood. And what can parents and teacher do to avoid it. Question. How have we changed from the 2019 release of Boys Dont Try? to today, with the publishing of Boys Do Cry? Answer. I think that as a society were evolving. Were more in tune with what happened after 2019. Obviously, the #MeToo movement was just starting then. As a society, we are becoming more aware of what harassment is and also realizing that its not just boys will be boys. I also think weve become a lot more aware of male mental health since 2019. Q. Not all the changes have been positive, have they? A. Of course, now we have Andrew Tate and other misogynistic influencers like that. So, yeah, theres a lot going on. I think were in the middle of a huge revolution in gender politics. Were holding them culpable now more than we ever have done. I think we do need to hold men to account, but we also need to better understand men. And I think sometimes Im guilty, too, when I advocate for men, I feel that Im being misogynist, or sometimes I might talk about the reality of being a boy or the reality of being a man, and even as Im speaking, I can hear myself saying, shut up, you know? Q. But someone has to ask those questions, right? There are many books on what it means to be a woman in the 21st century. Shouldnt we men also ask ourselves that question and redefine the concept of masculinity? A. Yeah, I mean, in England you go into a bookshop and there are so many books about what it means to be a woman, and the male role in that book is almost like a binary opposition to that. We need to recognize the positive aspects of masculinity, but at the same time understand that men are a problem in many ways, or masculinity is a problem. The problem with gender is, by definition, that there are two opposing sides, and we dont make much room, when were discussing gender, for grey areas. Its like either youre a man whos horrible, or youre a good man. And if youre a good man, you never make mistakes. Well, the reality is you can be a bad man who does some good things, and you can be a good man who does some bad things. We need to talk about masculinity if we want women to be empowered. Q. And the men who do not fit the canon, too. Those who are not athletes, those who cry, those who are not heterosexual... Can toxic masculinity be a problem for men themselves? A. I used to reject the term toxic masculinity. But the problem is that too many high profile men and non-high profile men are being toxic. So now I use the term toxic masculinity. You asked me earlier what has changed since 2019. Weve become much more aware of where men are going wrong. And what we have to accept is, yes, many aspects of masculinity are toxic. We tell boys: be a man, grow up, be independent, be a man. And they think being a man means objectifying women, being aggressive, being violent. Q. There is another term with which you have recently made peace and which you vindicate in your book: bromance. A. Its a hybrid word between brother and romance. It is a relationship between two, platonic, non-romantic males who like each other and are willing to express that love for each other. It can be physical, like hugging, you know, shaking hands, or kissing. In England, men are not physical with each other. When I go to the continent, I see men greeting each other with a kiss or a hug. That doesnt happen in England. In England, if you hug another man, a friend, or kiss him on the cheek, youre gay. Who cares if youre gay? But heterosexual men believe that they cannot be physical with other men. Q. Thats why you defend that literary or historical bromances must be discussed in class. A. Yes. That is on the rise in this country. The problem is its only really happening around the age of 19, 20, 21. What I argue in the book is we could teach younger kids about this, tell them, this is whats happening to people that are slightly older than you. They just they want this physical touch, you know. But its always underscored with violence. And it would be nice if someone told them: Its okay, you can show affection physically, you can have a bromance. Q. In 2020, 72% of all the teenagers who killed themselves in the U.K. were boys. You analyze this phenomenon in your book. Why is teenage suicide mostly male? A. I think its the outdated ideas about what it means to be a man. Teenagers want to become adults. Boys want to become men. And theyre told that men dont talk about their feelings. Men are tough. And so, being a teenager, its very difficult when you feel weak, when you feel vulnerable, when you feel scared, and youre not meeting that expectation of what it means to be a man. When we look at the statistics around adult suicide, women are much more likely to try to kill themselves. But men are three times more likely to die by suicide. Because men have been taught that violence and anger are socially acceptable. And so, sadly, boys and men tend to use methods that are more likely to result in death. Q. Statistically, 74% of all violent crimes are committed by men, and 98% of rapists are men. Do these overwhelming numbers have to do with biology, or is it a cultural thing? A. I dont like the biological argument, because it suggests that its inevitable, and I dont think it is inevitable. You look at Marvel [movies] and the men solve their problems with their fists, not their brain. As young boys and men, were told we have to be like James Bond, you know? We have to be sexy, tough, irresistible and cool all of the time. And if we see something that will make us manly, like a sexual conquest with a woman, then we have to take it. Sadly, so much of masculinity is intertwined with sex, like winning sex and having sex. And pornography teaches us that violence is acceptable, that men should be dominant and women should be submissive. Q. With mobile phones, pornography is now within reach. Is that part of the problem? A. I dont think theres anything inherently wrong with watching pornography. People get sexually aroused. Pornography, or the naked form of sex, has been arousing people for centuries. The problem is that were not willing to talk to children openly and honestly about pornography. If anything, Id say we stigmatize pornography. We tell children pornography is inherently bad. And so, if they have questions about it or theyre interested in it, they dont talk, because they dont want to be embarrassed or ashamed. And so all these boys are watching this violent pornography. They must be watching and thinking, is this what sex looks like? In this country recently, there was a big kind of Twitter storm, somebody said on Twitter that in schools all teachers are teaching children how to masturbate with sex toys, about sadomasochism. Q. In your book you talk about Section 28 [a reform introduced by Margaret Thatcher that prohibited talking about homosexuality in the classrooms, which was in force until the early 21st century] as something that had been overcome. But there are similar initiatives around the world. In Spain they are talking about the parental PIN; in Florida, the Dont Say Gay bill has been signed. A. Its dangerous because if you openly talk about sex, the right is going to tell you that you are a pervert, as if teachers were trying to encourage teenagers to try things. But people dont know what its like in the schools. And now theres all this uproar and the government is saying, You should not mention this stuff. And then theyre wondering why boys are learning that its okay to do anal on your first time or that its okay to choke a woman. Q. And if you dont talk about sex, you cant talk about other issues like homophobia either. Why are schools such complicated spaces for non-heterosexual individuals? A. Things have changed since I was in high school as a student, but they still have room for improvement. Ive taught for 12 years and I have seen two lesbians who are couples, but I have never, ever, seen a gay boy who is openly in a gay relationship in school. Even heterosexual men arent telling other heterosexual men that they like them. Heterosexual men cant even be nice. Theyre just horrible to each other. I think the idea of a gay kid being treated kindly and normal I dont think were close to that yet. Its sad. Q. Boys do cry, but they also smile. What can adults do to help them be happier and better citizens? A. We need to realize that boys are more complicated. So often we reduce boys to a stereotype, like, they just want violence and they dont want to talk. But the boys are talking. They want physical affection. They want to talk about their feelings. We need to stop normalizing toxic behaviors. Heterosexual men can talk openly about our feelings, criticize homophobia, racism. We need to break free from our own barriers. I do think there is hope. Like I said, bromances, theyre on the rise. I think things could happen. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Rosario and her partner, Antonio, at the Roman ruins of Italica, in Seville, where he works as a gardener. Until now, she had never spoken about the worst day of her life. She was just 20 when her mother tricked her into going to the Valme University Hospital in Seville (Spain), where she found herself on the operating table. The doctor had to break the news to her she was going to have a tubal ligation operation to sterilize her. They told me, Sign here, when I was already blurry from the anesthesia, she recalls now, at 31. I didnt know what I was signing. Carmen, who prefers to use a pseudonym, has a significant intellectual disability. Her mother, who is her legal guardian, didnt think she was capable of caring for children. Families may have good intentions of protecting these women, but advocacy groups caution that this often backfires. It was 2013, and the forced sterilization of people with disabilities was still legal in Spain in exceptional circumstances and with a judges authorization. Although the country banned the practice in 2020, it still remains prevalent in most of the European Union, with only nine countries having made it illegal. This persistent practice is in direct violation of the Istanbul Convention against violence towards women. The oxygen, I remember it so vividly. I didnt want to drift off to sleep and I was crying, begging them to let me have at least one child, the young woman said. However, her pleadings fell on deaf ears. Even today, she still hears her mother justify the decision. She said that without the operation, I would have given birth to many children, and that this was the best thing she could have done for me. The first thing Carmen saw when she woke up was the scar, and that was the beginning of her suffering. Every time I see it, I want to die. From that moment on, her relationship with her mother deteriorated and drove her to a center for people with disabilities, which is like living in a prison for her. I can never forgive her, she took away half my life. More than a decade later, she still feels resentment and doesnt think she will ever get over the trauma. Carmen, a 31-year-old who was forcibly sterilized, holds up a sign with the word rancor.' In the year 2020 alone, Spanish courts adjudicated 28 proceedings for forced sterilizations of persons with disabilities. This was the last trickle of cases until the law changed in December 2020. Over the previous decade, 932 cases were brought to the court. Nonetheless, organizations say the reported numbers do not reflect reality. They contend that the actual figure should include illegal sterilizations, which are challenging to quantify. We have known cases of women with disabilities who became pregnant and their families decided to terminate the pregnancy without their consent. And they were also sterilized during the abortion operation, said Isabel Caballero, coordinator of Fundacion CERMI Mujeres, a Spanish non-for-profit womens advocacy organization. Some women didnt know they had a tubal ligation until they later tried unsuccessfully to get pregnant. Suddenly, they remember going to a hospital for an operation when they were 18 and never knew what it was about, added Caballero. Victims of forced sterilization are often misled about the procedure and are unaware that its irreversible. Rosario Ruiz, an intellectually disabled 53-year-old woman from Seville, wasnt informed about the operations ramifications. When she was 21, Rosario met Antonio at a day-care center, but her parents refused to accept their relationship and spoke to her family doctor, who suggested sterilization. They took me to the hospital and told me that if I didnt have the operation, they would separate me from Antonio and put me in an institution until I died. Rosario saw the scar on her belly the next day. What have they done to my life? Am I a useless woman now? Am I the only one unfit to be a parent? How could they destroy me like this? She has since accepted her fate, but she hasnt forgotten about it. She still feels an emptiness inside. Sadly, she shares the misguided belief that a woman who cannot conceive is incomplete. Ive lost my rights as a woman and as a person, she said. Three years ago, Rosarios life underwent a transformation when the courts agreed to move her into a guardianship regimen. With the aid of the Plena Inclusion association, she now leads a semi-independent life. Despite significant strides in her life, she only gets to spend weekends with Antonio. During weekdays, she dutifully attends to her octogenarian father, who initially doubted her ability to care for anyone. Although forced sterilization is no longer legally allowed in Spain, theres still a risk of it happening. Disability lawyer Angeles Blanco says the procedure is still performed when informed consent is bypassed or forged and patients dont fully understand the process. Without the resources to adapt communications for women with expression and comprehension difficulties, the decision to do something so invasive to women will be made by a family member or professional, and not by the woman with the disability, said Blanco. The illegalization debate in Europe Forced sterilization is a very cruel form of domination, both of sexuality and reproduction, said Maria Eugenia Rodriguez Palop, a member of The Left coalition in the European Parliament. The entire political spectrum agrees on ending the practice, but the debate is in a complicated stage. The European Parliament hopes to ban forced sterilization by including it in its new directive to combat violence against women. This new directive will be up for a vote in early July. The directives legal basis is limited since it focuses on the crime of sexual exploitation, said Rodriguez. Thus, the European Parliament is seeking to expand the definition of sexual assault by linking sexual exploitation to reproductive exploitation. Some member states, such as France, Belgium, and Portugal, are even rejecting the penal ramifications of the directive, despite their tradition of firm support for human rights, said Rodriguez. Since 2015, midwife Beatrice Idiard-Chamois has been providing specialized gynecological care for women with disabilities at the Institut Mutualiste Montsouris Hospital in Paris. One particular patient remains etched in her memory, Sophie. A young woman with non-verbal autism, Sophie came to the hospital accompanied by her mother and a midwife, who requested sterilization for Sophie. They were surprised when I refused, said Idiard-Chamois. While institutions cannot mandate contraceptive measures as a requirement for admission, the reality is far from ideal. The [health care] centers always ask people with disabilities to take some form of birth control. In some cases, the centers psychiatrist will even prescribe the same birth control pill for everyone without considering an individuals prior gynecological exams, said Idiard-Chamois. Midwife Beatrice Idiard-Chamois in the Institut Mutualiste Montsouris Hospital in Paris. In France, it is legal to perform a sterilization procedure on a woman without her consent. The law was modified in 2001 to only allow tubal ligation for people with disabilities in specific cases. Informed consent is the most critical component of the legislation, but it is also the most challenging to ensure. According to Ghada Hatem, a gynecologist and chief physician at Maison de Femmes de Saint-Denis, a center for women facing economic challenges or abuse, its difficult to gauge whether people with severe intellectual disabilities can comprehend and agree. Practically speaking, its not an easy task, she says. Hatem sits on the expert committee responsible for evaluating sterilization requests that informs the courts decisions. She believes that for women with severe disabilities, sterilization can sometimes be preferable to contraception. If there is no clear indication that the disability is curable in the near future, why undertake a temporary treatment that has to be constantly renewed? she asks. Marie Rabatel, president of the Francophone Association of Autistic Women, vehemently opposes legalizing sterilization in France. She believes this move only opens the door to abuse, especially for women living in institutions. Protecting women is just a guise, she argues. Protect them from what? Getting pregnant from a rape? Her suspicons are not unfounded, as women with severe disabilities are notably more vulnerable to sexual violence. Legal loopholes that enable abuse For people with disabilities, life in institutions is repressive, Kristoff Kornyei, a lawyer and activist with the Hungarian NGO Tasz. The residents are treated like children, which makes the very notion of having children a non-issue. Piroska (left) and Tibor in their living quarters at the Kolping Tordasi Otthona residence for people with disabilities in Hungary. Tibor and Piroska both have intellectual disabilities and share a cozy room full of stuffed animals at the Kolping Tordasi Otthona institution. Their small space is sufficient for their needs but not for raising a child. If we didnt live here, maybe we would have considered having a family. But its not safe here for children, said Tibor. At 58, Piroska no longer needs contraception, although she used to take it every day. I used to take Overol, some pink pills and some other white ones, she said. Sometimes they also gave her injections, although she says it wasnt her choice. No, the neurologist prescribed them for me, she said. The head nurse in this Hungarian center says it houses 200 people, half of whom live together as couples. Yet she says only five women take contraception and there have been no births or abortions in the last 20 years. In Hungary, 15 institutionalized women have been subjected to sterilization. The practice is allowed under Hungarian law, one of the three EU countries that does not prohibit sterilization. The other two are Portugal and the Czech Republic. In Hungary, the sterilization process takes up to a year and involves up to eight gynecological consultations, says the nurse from the Kolping Tordasi Otthona institution. The court is required to hold a hearing and listen to the patients and their guardians, said Sandor Gurbai, a spokesperson for the Validity Foundation. However, the procedure for this court hearing is not specified. Furthermore, the patients consent may not be necessary in some cases, and the law asserts that a patients objection must be verbalized. If the individual is disabled and remains silent, this is considered consent, said Gurbai. However, a legal loophole excludes cases in which pregnancy is deemed life-threatening, and judges are not obligated to seek the individuals consent. Rosa Estaras, a member of the European Parliament from the European Peoples Party and the mother of a child with disabilities, argues that sterilization remains a taboo subject. There has been a permissiveness in criminal codes and the laws of various [EU] member states that prevents people with legal disabilities from starting families. The lack of resources leads some families to make drastic choices with irreversible consequences. Depriving a person of their right to reproduce is a blatant violation of human rights. But families with disabled members dont have much help. Society cant just give these families a beautiful message about human rights without providing resources and support. Thats the complicated part, she said. Despite Carmens mothers decision and the anger she feels about it, she still loves her mother. But she cant get a question out of her head: Why did she have to do this to me? Maria Eugenia Rodriguez Palop has a blunt assessment. We still have eugenics in the 21st century. We want perfect people, which is a dubious standard because perfection always means people like us. Swedens shameful eugenics program Kjell Sundstedt and his cousin Karina Sjoberg with a photo album of their family, who were institutionalized and sterilized in Sweden. "It was a secret. Our society was ashamed that people had been forcibly sterilized, so it's not talked about in Sweden," said Swedish film director Kjell Sundstedt. The first country in Europe to abolish forced sterilization implemented a racist eugenics program between 1934 and 1976. The victims were mostly young women who were considered "mentally weak," "rebellious" or of "mixed race." "The government feared some sort of 'racial suicide' because people with bad genes procreated more than the middle class," said Sven Widmalm, a professor of the history of science at Uppsala University (Sweden). Some of the people judged to have bad genes were siblings of Sundstedts mother; four were locked up in a mental institution in the 1940s. Like 33,000 other Swedes, they were forced to undergo sterilization before they could leave the institution. Maija Runcis, a historian and archivist at the University of Stockholm, discovered documents that reveal an alarming practice. Women could be sterilized on flimsy grounds, such as exuding cheerfulness, painting their nails or being single mothers. "The first application I saw was for a 13-year-old girl whose catechist had requested sterilization because she wasn't paying attention in class," she said. "I have studied hundreds of these applications and often think that this could have happened to me." The Swedish government's initial implementation of the policy inspired by Nazi Germany was widely favored by society, but questions began to surface soon after. To make amends, the government established a financial reparations fund of about $16,000 per victim, but only 3,000 people applied. Maija claims that "most were simply too embarrassed to admit that they had been unwillingly sterilized." This article was produced with the support of Journalismfund Europe. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Rabbi Jeffrey Myers, third from right, of the Tree of Life, enters the Federal courthouse in Pittsburgh for the first day of trial for Robert Bowers, the suspect in the 2018 synagogue massacre on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, in Pittsburgh. Prosecutors on Tuesday described how a heavily armed suspect barged into a Pittsburgh synagogue and shot every worshipper he could find in the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history. Robert Bowers federal trial got underway more than four years after the shooting deaths of 11 worshippers at the Tree of Life synagogue. Twelve jurors and six alternates chosen Thursday after more than 200 candidates were questioned over a month are hearing the case. They include 11 women and seven men. The depths of the defendants malice and hate can only be proven in the broken bodies of the victims and his hateful words, Assistant U.S. Attorney Soo C. Song said during her opening statement. Some of the survivors dabbed tears, while Bowers, seated at the defense table, showed no reaction. The defense was expected to present its opening statement before the prosecution began calling witnesses. Bowers, 50, could face the death penalty if convicted of some of the 63 counts he faces in the Oct. 27, 2018, attack, which claimed the lives of worshippers from three congregations who were sharing the building, Dor Hadash, New Light and Tree of Life. Charges include 11 counts each of obstruction of free exercise of religion resulting in death and hate crimes resulting in death. Members of the three congregations arrived at the courthouse in a school bus and entered together. Prosecutors have said Bowers made antisemitic comments at the scene of the attack and online. In proceedings before and during juror questioning, the defense has done little to cast doubt on whether Bowers was the gunman and has instead focused on preventing his execution. Bowers, a truck driver from the Pittsburgh suburb of Baldwin, had offered to plead guilty in return for a life sentence, but federal prosecutors turned him down. Bowers attorneys also recently said he has schizophrenia and brain impairments. As an indication that the guilt-or-innocence phase of the trial seems almost a foregone conclusion, Bowers lawyers spent little time during jury selection asking how potential jurors would come to a verdict. Instead, they focused on the penalty phase and how jurors would decide whether to impose the death penalty in a case of a man charged with hate-motivated killings in a house of worship. The defense probed whether potential jurors could consider factors such as mental illness or a difficult childhood. The families of those killed are divided over whether the government should pursue the death penalty, but most have voiced support for it. The trial is taking place in the downtown Pittsburgh courthouse of the U.S. District Court for Western Pennsylvania, presided over by Judge Robert Colville, an appointee of former President Donald Trump. Prosecutors are expected to tell jurors about incriminatory statements Bowers allegedly made to investigators, an online trail of antisemitic statements that they say shows the attack was motivated by religious hatred, and the guns recovered from him at the crime scene, where police shot Bowers three times before he surrendered. They indicated in court filings that they might introduce autopsy records and 911 recordings during the trial, including recordings of two calls from victims who were subsequently shot to death. They have said their evidence includes a Colt AR-15 rifle, three Glock .357 handguns and hundreds of cartridge cases, bullets and bullet fragments. Bowers also injured seven people, including five police officers who responded to the scene, investigators said. In a filing earlier this year, prosecutors said Bowers harbored deep, murderous animosity towards all Jewish people. They said he also expressed hatred for HIAS, founded as the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, a nonprofit humanitarian group that helps refugees and asylum seekers. Prosecutors wrote in a court filing that Bowers had nearly 400 followers on his Gab social media account to whom he promoted his antisemitic views and calls to violence against Jews. The three congregations have spoken out against antisemitism and other forms of bigotry since the attack. The Tree of Life congregation also is working with partners on plans to overhaul its current structure, which still stands but has been closed since the shootings, by creating a complex that would house a sanctuary, museum, memorial and center for fighting antisemitism. The death penalty trial is proceeding three years after now-President Joe Biden said during his 2020 campaign that he would work to end capital punishment at the federal level and in states that still use it. His attorney general, Merrick Garland, has temporarily paused executions to review policies and procedures, but federal prosecutors continue to vigorously work to uphold death sentences that have been issued and, in some cases, to pursue new death sentences at trial. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The Pride flag at Trinity United Church in Beamsville was vandalized during the evening of May 27. The ripping up of the Pride flag at a church in Beamsville was targeted hate, said Pride Niagara chair Enzo De Divitiis. Early Sunday, May 28 morning, at Trinity United Church on William Street near King Street, the Pride flag was found on the ground, ripped to shreds, next to the Canadian flag, according to Niagara Region Police Service. Police say video footage shows five people on the property, three of them handling the flag. Officers believe they cut down the flag at 9:54 p.m. Police continue to analyze the video footage. At this point, police have not identified any suspects. De Divitiis said he believes the vandalism is unrelated to religion, homophobia or transphobia, but happened because its too often tolerated by those in positions of authority who are not making a point in representing the LGBTQ2S+ and holding people accountable. This is people saying we don't want you to be acknowledged, he said. We don't want your community to be acknowledged or celebrated. We don't agree with that. We think you're wrong. And this is hate. Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West, told the Grimsby Lincoln News he was saddened to hear about the incident. Vandalism and destruction of property are never acceptable, he said. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and no place of worship should ever be targeted regardless of faith background All residents of Niagara deserve safe communities, where they can live, work and worship without fear. Irene Romagnoli, affirming ministry chair at Trinity United Church, said she expected something of this nature would happen. When the congregation learned what happened during Sundays service, Romagnoli said gasps were heard. In April, the church officially opened its doors to the LGBTQ2S+ community by gaining an Affirmed Church status. Romagnoli said she was surprised by the young age of the suspects in the security video. I don't know whether they did it out of anger or out of malice or misunderstanding about what that flag represents, she said. It's very hard until you get to speak to the person. You can't understand why they did what they did. So we just assume that they're angry. Another Pride flag was set to be flying again on May 31 once the pole is fixed. Colleen Logan, who has been a member of the church for more than 70 years, said she was disgusted and disappointed with the vandalism. We're supposed to accept people the way they are, she said. Celeste Turner, the LGBTQ2S+ support co-ordinator at the Niagara Falls Community Health Centre and a member of the Alliance's Rainbow Communities Advisory Group, said Trinity United has done a lot of work to receive the affirming church status, and the incident is unfortunate and disheartening. For Turner, it is also a reminder that theres work to be done by the church and the community, especially with Pride Month coming up, and people tend to get lost regarding its meaning. Part of that is celebrating the progress that's been made and also bring attention to the progress that needs to made. While she said the church has made a strong statement about it being a place of inclusion and acceptance, Rev. Jane Capstick said her heart goes to the LGBTQ2S+ folks who now live in a community where a Pride flag was destroyed. Capstick said people outside the congregation have reached out to the church to make donations so Trinity United can keep up its work of being an affirmed church. SHARE: Emotions ran high Tuesday in Thorold city council chambers after the municipalitys integrity commissioner outlined penalties for a councillor found in contravention of the citys code of conduct. Coun. Jim Handley, Mayor Terry Ugulini and integrity commissioner John Mascarin tried to speak over each other during delivery of the integrity commissioners report. Mascarin recommended actions pertaining to allegations of Handleys social media posts spreading misinformation about COVID-19 pandemic precautions and his involvement in the trucker convoy protest in Ottawa in January 2022. Standing to speak to the report, Handley smoothed a Canadian flag tie he was wearing. He denounced the recommendations and said his rights had been abused. The integrity commissioner a 90-day loss of pay and a reprimand. On the recommendations, Im totally against it, I wear this tie tonight because its a Canadian flag. To me, it represents freedom, said Handley. It represents democracy. My grandfather fought in the Second World War, and I believe John Mascarin (of Aird and Berlis LLP) has erred in what he says in regard to my rights not being abused. Handley believes he is being targeted. He said he has represented council very well over his 20-year career and if he is punished for what he has done, then youre going to punish me for all the years I donated and helped families. The recommendations to me are upon council to decide, and I believe we need to move forward and if council wants to suspend my pay today, this council will not be moving forward in a positive manner because I will not let this stand, he said. The 29-page integrity commissioners report outlined a lengthy investigation of allegations of code of conduct violations that blurred the lines between personal and councillor opinions, including social media posts and comments denigrating the prime minister on issues unrelated to the interests of the city. Handley was found to have disseminated misinformation contravening at least nine sections of the code of conduct. A formal complaint against Handley was made Aug. 3, 2022. During the presentation of the findings, Dasha Peregoudova, lawyer at Aird and Berlis LLP, said the report speaks for itself. It assesses them (facts) against the framework of the code of conduct and other applicable policies, although in this case, there was no allegations of related policies made, it was only the code and makes various findings and draws conclusions, she said. Peregoudova said this is not the first time Handley has been before the integrity commissioner and the standard recommendations have done little to dissuade him from future infractions. We have recommended that council once again denounce the councillors actions in this particular matter and reprimand him and impose a suspension of remuneration equal to 90 days, she said. We have not recommended remedial measures or corrective measures. We have set that out, they are, of course, a possibility with findings like this as Section 16 of the code of conduct sets out. But we have done so in prior instances of violation for Coun. Handley and recommended various remedial measures, training, education and removal from chairing committees and apologies. Council voted to defer making a decision on the recommendations until its June meeting. SHARE: Larry Munro had no idea hed be unearthing Welland history when he and a friend started excavating his driveway. About two weeks ago, the Denistoun Street resident started to redo his driveway by digging the old one up with his mini-excavator before laying down stone. But shortly after getting started he spotted a piece of concrete, flat at the bottom and rounded at the top, protruding from the ground. It was a headstone with most of its epitaph in place and legible. It really stood out, Munro said from his home north of West Main Street, adding he was overwhelmed with excitement. It says In memory of Jesse Stoner, noting he was 48 when he died on Nov. 23, 1864. Two other pieces were uncovered shortly after, one marking the death of a child who died at the age of one year, two months and 23 days. Munro said he believes it could be the son of Jesse Stoner. The other is what appears to be the top of another headstone. But who was Jesse Stoner and why is his gravestone turning up nearly 160 years after his death on someones residential property? Welland Museum researcher Mark Allenov had an explanation, and said there is plenty of reason to believe the headstone belongs to Stoner. Jesse Stoner was the grandson of Christian Stoner, one of the first Pennsylvania Dutch/Mennonite German pioneers to settle in Humberstone Township in 1788. In the 1861 census Jesse Stoner is listed as having been born in Canada West, living in Welland at the time, being a farmer by profession and 44 years old. He is identified as a Methodist who was married in 1837. His wife Catherine was the daughter of David Price, known as Wellands first settler. Catherine Street, also known as the brick road at West Main Street parallel to Prince Charles Drive, is named for Catherine Stoner. Allenov said it appears Jesse Stoner had a farm on Denistoun Street, 2.4 hectares of which would be donated as land for the Welland County Fair circa 1851, until the fair moved again in 1857. There was a cemetery in the area, and the Stoner family is believed to have members who were buried there, according to a 2021 Niagara Region archeological management plan document. It says the cemeterys religious affiliation was Methodist Episcopal, and that there are five known graves, and an indeterminate number of unmarked graves. The cemetery began as a Gonder family burial plot and was then used by the Price family. The land was deeded to trustees of the Methodist Episcopal Church by John Price in July 1863 before it was sold by the church to Joseph Thorne in June 1876. No bodies are known to have been moved, said the archeological management plan, which also states the site is now occupied by houses. Two individuals the report says are buried there are Michael Gonder, in 1813, and David Price, in 1841. Other names associated with this cemetery are thought to include Stoner and Ellsworth. After posting his discovery to Facebook, Munro said he was told the grave honouring the toddler may be that of Oliver David Stoner. Munro has told the museum about his discovery. Kris Dube is a reporter for the Welland Tribune. Reach him via email: kris.dube@niagaradailies.com SHARE: The QAnon Shaman is out of prison and eager to make some coin. On Jan. 6, 2021, when MAGA maniacs stormed the U.S. Capitol in an orgy of violence and mayhem, one face stood out amid the swirling chaos. It belonged to Jacob Chansley, a.k.a. Jake Angeli, a.k.a. Yellowstone Wolf, a.k.a. the QAnon Shaman. Looking like he had just come from the Water Buffalo Lodge, after failing to convince Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble the election was stolen, Mr. Chansley had the American flag painted above his beard. His shirtless torso was tatted up with the iconography of a lost mystic. He wore a fur headdress with horns. He was prone to spontaneous howling. If such a weirdo boarded your subway car, youd get off. Alas, the QAnon Shamans special powers did not include fending off the feds. As with hundreds of other giddy insurrectionists, he was identified, charged and eventually sentenced to serve time for his coupy crimes. He expressed remorse before prison. He was released a few days ago. The remorse may still be behind bars. Now a free man, the QAnon Shaman is following Rule No. 1 for any notorious MAGA blowhard: grift. Living in a parallel universe can be a lucrative enterprise. The QAnon Shaman has opened an online store that is selling QBacca T-shirts ($46), Shaman Life water bottles ($35), Freedom!!! posters ($61), Forbidden Truth Academy mouse pads ($31). For another $31, you can dress your conspiratorial preschooler in a cute Didnt Do Muffin jersey that is soft yet durable to withstand your toddlers playtime demands. Well, so long as those demands do not include attacking police and rioting inside a government citadel to overturn a free and fair election. In that case, your kid will need a flak jacket and sawed-off flagpole. For MAGA zombies with deeper pockets, $500 can get you a one-on-one with the Shaman himself. Ask about how radio waves are hijacking synaptic functioning. Ask about the worldwide satanic network, funded by Oprah and George Soros, that is sex-trafficking children. Ask if he believes he is an alien who was sent to this planet on an emergency intergalactic mission to purge all unpatriotic enemies who drink Bud Light. Just dont be surprised when his metaphysics seminar ends with a desperate plea to buy a framed mug shot or yoga leggings, both of which are now available on his site. MAGA started as a political movement. It is now, first and foremost, about making money and moving merch. Donald Trump, the indicted charlatan who has fleeced his gullible followers out of millions, created this template of shameless monetization. Trump sees every legal and political setback as an opportunity to sell: The Deep State and Deranged Marxists are on a Witch Hunt and wont stop this Hoax until your True President is behind bars. America is a Banana Republic! Please send $42.99 for these Donald & Melania salt-and-pepper shakers and Make Seasoning Great Again!!! The QAnon Shaman has served his time. Upon his release, his lawyer described him as remarkably intelligent, peaceful to his core and a gentle young man with a very bright future. Fair enough. But Chansleys new Twitter account suggests that, while he is out of prison, he may not have escaped the rabbit holes that led him there. He is back to amplifying conspiracies about tampered ballots. He is granting World Exclusive interviews to One America News, which is to journalism as Taco Bell is to horticulture. The Shaman has traded the coyote skins and horns for a game show white suit and matching Stars-and-Stripes bandana and necktie. He is crediting God with shepherding him through this arduous journey. He is name-checking Gandhi. Then you click over to his website and wonder if this exalted, evangelizing blather about forgiveness, unity and truth is just subliminal salesmanship. If I strike a conciliatory tone, will people buy an Awake Evolve Ascend mug? The only MAGA diehard who is not a grifter is Mike Lindell, that MyPillow lunatic, who has lost millions as a true believer of the Big Lie. If Trump privately confided he was about to grow a second face, Lindell would now be frantically inventing a two-headed pillow. He sees Trump as a stand-in for the Second Coming. But for everyone else in the MAGA treason cult, from Steve Bannon to Rudy Giuliani, embracing the crazy was always a calculated move to get in on the cha-ching. Trump supporters constantly whine about financial hardships. Then they make monthly donations to millionaires. In a video he shared Thursday, the day he was released, the QAnon Shaman vowed the next part of my journey entails using the power of patience and peace to spread the truth and to do so in the spirit of a Christ-like forgiveness. I am willing to bet any upcoming truths will not include: Joe Biden is the legitimate president. There is no global cabal of pedophiles. Hillary Clinton is not a diabolical murderer. Tom Hanks does not drink the blood of aborted fetuses. Such truths would require introspection and evolution. Such truths would mean the QAnon Shaman learned something while locked up and can finally see the light. That would be great for him as a human being. It would also be a nightmare for his bottom line. Jacob Chansleys future earnings are calibrated to his past lies. And those buying Americas Shaman Flag for $61 do not care about the truth. SHARE: The Middle Eastern country of Jordan is set to host its biggest royal wedding in years on Thursday as the countrys young Crown Prince Hussein exchanges vows with Rajwa Alseif, daughter of one of Saudi Arabias wealthiest and most influential families. With a VIP list that includes First Lady Jill Biden, White House climate envoy John Kerry and members of several European and Asian royal families, the wedding is sure to provide plenty of fodder for tabloids and gossip columns. But the ceremony will reverberate across the region in other ways as well. It is a test of sorts for Jordans ruling family, which has gone through a rough patch in recent years due to economic troubles and some public infighting. It deepens the ties between two countries in a turbulent region. And perhaps most importantly, it will give the world its first glimpse of the man tapped to one day rule this desert kingdom. Longtime AP journalist Josef Federman has been covering the Middle East for two decades, and in 2019 began overseeing all coverage of Jordan. He says its a strong U.S. ally and seen as a pro-Western bulwark and source of stability in a volatile region. Here, Federman breaks down what this wedding means for the country, for the region and, of course, for the new royal couple. FOR JORDAN The royal wedding is a big deal for Jordans royal family. Its a chance for the monarchy to show its best face to its own public and also to the outside world after a rough couple of years. Jordan has lots of challenges, lots of problems. It is home to a huge population of refugees who fled war in neighboring Syria and neighboring Iraq, and of course a large Palestinian population as well. Relations with Israel have been strained for the past few years. Its economy is in poor shape. Its a country with few natural resources. Its even been been dealing with some palace intrigue. For the past two years, the former crown prince Hamzah has been under house arrest after the king accused him of insubordination. Hamzah was a popular figure with the Jordanian public especially in poorer tribal areas. It is rare for the royal family to air its dirty laundry like that, and the kings crackdown on his half brother certainly raised some eyebrows. So now, at least for a day, this is a time for the monarchy to celebrate and try to repair its tarnished image. But that may not be so easy. We will see lots of pomp and circumstance. Husseins parents, King Abdullah II and Queen Rania, have global star appeal. We will see visiting VIPs, European royalty, Asian royalty from Japan. John Kerry and Jill Biden will be representing the U.S. The royal family wants to have a happy day. They want to celebrate. But an extravagant wedding could also alienate the masses of people who are unemployed or living in deep poverty. They will have to tread carefully. FOR THE REGION This wedding is creating a union of people from the highest levels of important countries. That always packs a punch. Jordan is seen as a strategic ally for the West. It may be poor, but its location gives it great importance. Its in the heart of the Middle East. It borders a number of problematic countries: Syria, with a civil war; Iraq, which is recovering from war; and Israel and the West Bank, which are in a constant state of friction. So Jordan is an important source of stability for the region. Saudi Arabia is important for other reasons. It is an immensely wealthy country. Its a leading oil producer and a rising power globally. Traditionally its been a key U.S. ally, though that has begun to change. You see it making up with Iran. You see it forging ties with China, resisting U.S. requests to pump more oil. So these two countries now are coming together at the highest levels. Jordan depends heavily on international aid. But it has seen aid from wealthy Gulf oil states like Saudi Arabia decrease in recent years. This wedding is likely raising some hopes in Jordan of restoring that flow of aid. Now, we dont know when the crown prince is going to assume the throne. But whenever that happens he will inherit a country with huge challenges, especially for the younger generation, people his own age who have few opportunities. Hussein will need all the help he can get. He needs allies. He needs foreign investment. So the closer he can be with Saudi Arabia, the better that will be for Jordans ruling monarchy in the short run and also down the road whenever he might take power. FOR THE COUPLE With this wedding, we are going to see the emergence of a new Middle Eastern power couple. Obviously you have the crown prince on one hand. On the other hand, you have his wife who comes from a family with close ties to the royal family in Saudi Arabia, the daughter of a very wealthy businessman. Both of them are Western-educated. They went to college at prestigious universities in the United States. They speak fluent English. They clearly feel comfortable hobnobbing with other royals, with business leaders, and politicians. They can look forward to a life of great privilege. But like other royal families elsewhere, they will also be living under a microscope. Perhaps the bigger challenge is for the crown prince. In many ways, he has been groomed for this moment since he was a child. His father has taken him on world travels in recent years. He went with the king to the White House. He delivered a high profile speech to the United Nations a couple of years ago. But this is really his coming out party as a future leader of a Middle Eastern kingdom. The wedding is a first small test. People are going to look at his appearance to see how he carries himself. But the bigger test will be in the coming months, in the coming years, as he truly emerges as a public figure. Hes going to be well-known now on the global stage. Perhaps the biggest challenge will be how he is viewed at home. The nation is struggling in so many ways and people are going to be watching him very closely. Its going to be interesting to see how he carries himself in front of the people that he is set to one day rule. ___ Follow Josef Federman on Twitter at http://twitter.com/joseffederman SHARE: Vanessa Martinez was finishing preparations for her daughters second birthday in September 2021 when her ex-boyfriend broke into her Mesa, Arizona, condo and shot her in the head as she frantically tried to shield their three young children. Doctors had to remove a third of her skull, but Martinez survived. She left the hospital facing a fight for custody of her kids, whod been placed in state care after the attack. She needed a new place to live after much of the house was damaged in a standoff between police and her shooter. Her 4-year-old son needed trauma counseling. Arizona has a state safety net local victim compensation programs for victims of violent attacks like Martinez. But she was denied help because she was behind on about $900 in court fines from unrelated incidents, including one dating back nearly a decade. Program officials told Martinez she could reapply if she got current with a payment plan, but every dollar she made was needed for things like finding a place to live, work scrubs for her home-care job, after-school day care and the list grows. Across the country, victims like Martinez are using their stories to advocate for changes to state victim compensation programs, where thousands of crime survivors turn for help with medical bills, relocation, funerals or other expenses. The programs disburse millions of dollars each year, but The Associated Press found racial inequities and other barriers in how claims are denied in many states. Crime survivors have organized rallies, testified at legislatures and met with dozens of lawmakers with much success. Legislatures in more than half of U.S. states have passed measures to improve their programs in recent years. The changes vary widely: A victims criminal history is no longer an automatic disqualifier in Illinois. The time limit to apply for help was increased from three to seven years in California. In Michigan, the cap on aid will nearly double to $45,000 this year and more people like caretakers of victims will be eligible for survivor benefits. States have cut back on their denials to families based on the behavior of homicide victims and loosened requirements that crime victims must have cooperated with or reported the crime to police. In Ohio, denials are no longer automatic for crime victims who have felony convictions or for surviving family if a murder victim had drugs in their system. Those reasons were used to deny help for a handful of victims in the 2019 mass shooting at a Dayton bar where nine people were killed and 17 others were wounded. Dion Green was at the bar that night with his father, Derrick Fudge, who was killed. Green helped fight for the changes to Ohios program after being denied help because his father had an almost 10-year-old felony conviction. I told them that I miss my father everyday, but the survivors, the people left here, are the ones still moving through their pain, Green said. Changes have incrementally rolled through states over decades as more is learned about victimization. Mental health treatment wasnt a commonly covered expense when the programs started in the 1960s and 1970s, but now is widely covered. Pennsylvania passed a law to allow eligible victims access to counseling whether or not the program determined the victim contributed to their own victimization. Sometimes, however, change runs up against institutional inertia. Nevada doesnt require sexual assault victims to go to police as long as they report the crime to nurses or other health professionals. But a 2021 federal audit found 175 claims from those victims had been denied over a five-year period because of missing or incomplete police reports. Nevada retrained staff after the audit, and revised the denials notifications sent to victims. Program officials confirmed that as of early 2023, none of those denied claims had been reopened. They declined an interview request from the AP. The consensus has been that the potential re-traumatization to victims of sexual assault is too great of a risk in contacting victims regarding their claims, program spokeswoman, Karla Delgado wrote in an emailed response. In Ohio, Green recently helped a woman who had lost her childrens father to gun violence start the compensation process by contacting a county representative. The woman was initially turned away because the victim had a previous felony record. Green helped her inform the official of the 2021 law change. Its the awareness part. People inside and outside the program need to know, Green said. Christelle Perez sought an immediate attitude shift among staff when she took over as chief of the Illinois Crime Victims Compensation Bureau in May 2021. She wanted to stop decades of autopilot denials from holding up recently passed reforms. There was this culture of, How can we deny a claim? because thats what the staff were instructed to do, Perez said. I met with the staff and I told them that we are a service organization and it is our job to serve. A similar mission realignment happened when New Yorks program changed from a five-member board that made inconsistent and sometimes subjective decisions to a division where staff received uniform training on how to decide claims. Elizabeth Cronin took over as executive director of the division in 2013 a few years after the shift and has pushed to make sure the program operates equitably. My top priority was to identify marginalized communities, underserved communities and spend more time out in the community to find out what we arent seeing and why we arent seeing it, Cronin said. Lenore Anderson, president and co-founder of the Alliance for Safety and Justice, which organizes victims to advocate for criminal justice reforms, has pushed program administrators for years to shift their focus from eligibility requirements to victim needs. It feels so obvious that the very least we can do when someone is hurt by crime and violence is ask, What do you need? And the fact that that is completely counter to how these bureaucratic systems operate is shocking, she said. Anderson said shes seen signs of change at the federal level, where the Justice Departments U.S. Office for Victims of Crime provides state programs with matching dollars that are tied to some regulations and a set of suggested guidelines. In a 2021 memo to state programs, the office encouraged states to add exceptions to police cooperation requirements. Some victims advocates want the federal office to mandate changes to all programs as a condition for receiving federal funds to address the piecemeal map of state programs that dole out inconsistent decisions. The office is in the process of overhauling compensation guidelines for the first time since 2001, with an emphasis on equity and addressing programmatic barriers, according to an emailed statement from the department. But its unclear how much of that new guidance will be mandatory. Green, part of an advocates committee giving input on those changes, said hes pushed the agency not only to take down existing barriers but mandate that states increase public awareness of their compensation programs. At the state level, hundreds of advocacy organizations are working for reforms, and with more than 100,000 members, Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice is one of the largest. Bernice Tammi Ringo is one of those members. After a lifetime living around Detroit, Ringo had plans to move to Alabama with her 23-year-old son Natalian to get him away from the crime she had feared most of his life. Those plans were shattered in 2019, when Natalian was fatally shot while sitting in his parked car in an enclave of Detroit. Ringo applied for funeral and counseling aid. She was denied because the program said she could rely on life insurance instead. She appealed, and while the program overturned its initial decision, it denied her again, saying her son had committed misconduct related to his own murder. The state commission provided no details, Ringo said, and Highland Park police were little help. Overwhelmed with grief, Ringo, 64, later spoke before the Michigan Legislature about the trauma of being told her son had somehow caused his murder. They put me through more hell, she said of the program denial. Im heavily involved because I couldnt leave and go to Alabama and take my son with me and... just start a new life. After she and other victims testified, Michigan lawmakers passed legislation, set to go into effect in August, that makes numerous changes, including increasing money available to victims, eliminating police reporting deadlines and increasing eligibility. Data are not available for the handful of states that passed recent sweeping reforms. But New Jersey, which overhauled its program rules in 2020, saw an immediate change. In 2018 and 2019, Black victims accounted for about 44% of applications but received nearly 60% of the denials, according to data obtained by the AP. After the overhaul, that disparity dwindled, and by 2021 it had disappeared. Martinez hopes that speaking at rallies supporting a bill that would fund a pilot trauma-recovery center in Arizona will lead to more people getting help. The model moves money to victims faster and has fewer restrictions, like those that disqualified Martinez. I didnt really get any time to heal even emotionally from what happened, Martinez said. But I really feel like this is my lifes mission to get this changed. ___ Catalini reported from Trenton, New Jersey and Lauer reported from Philadelphia. ___ This is the second in an occasional Associated Press series examining crime victim compensation programs. Send confidential tips to ap.org/tips. The Associated Press receives support from the Public Welfare Foundation for reporting focused on criminal justice. The AP is solely responsible for all content. SHARE: SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) An attorney for two men whose beatings by guards were recorded by security cameras at a county jail in Georgia called Wednesday for the U.S. Justice Department to investigate what he called a systemic pattern of sheriffs officers abusing detainees. They are beating people indiscriminately inside this jail, civil rights attorney Harry Daniels told reporters at a news conference outside the Camden County Sheriffs Office, about 95 miles (152 kilometers) south of Savannah. Daniels represents Jarrett Hobbs, a 41-year-old Black man booked into the Camden County jail for a traffic violation and drug possession charges on Sept. 3. Security cameras recorded jailers rushing to Hobbs cell and repeatedly punching him before hurling him against a wall. On March 24, video from a camera in the jails lunchroom showed 23-year-old Zyaire Ratliff, a Black man detained for violating his probation and failing to appear in court, being shoved to the floor by a deputy who then crouched over him and landed several punches before being pulled off by another guard. Its a place where they make their own rules and whatever they say goes, said Ratliff, who is also represented by Daniels and appeared with him at the livestreamed news conference. If you dont do what they want, this is the type of thing that will happen. Three white deputies accused of punching Hobbs were arrested and fired last fall. On May 18, a grand jury indicted them on misdemeanor charges of battery and felony charges of violating their oaths of office. The Black deputy recorded punching Ratliff was also fired and arrested on the same charges. Daniels and Timothy Bessent, president of the Camden County NAACP, said more needs to be done because those two cases werent isolated. Were asking again that the Department of Justice come in and look into this department, Bessent said, adding: Its time to hold someone accountable. A Justice Department spokeswoman, Aryele Bradford, said the department had no comment. Capt. Larry Bruce, a spokesman for Camden County Sheriff Jim Proctor, said all jail employees have recently undergone additional training in deescalation techniques. He blamed the violence against Hobbs and Ratliff on younger, inexperienced jail workers. The sheriff has always been open for any government agency to come in and inspect or investigate, Bruce said. That includes any federal agency or state agency. Daniels and Bessent also cited a lawsuit filed last year in federal court by Adam Drummond, who says Camden County jailers violated his civil rights when they beat him bloody during a strip search in January 2021. Drummond, who is white, was being booked on a drunken driving charge. A judge dismissed Drummonds claims against the sheriff and jail administrator, but ruled his claims against the jailers who strip-searched him have sufficient legal standing to move forward. Brian Flacher, who was jailed in Camden County in July 2021 on a charge of aggravated stalking, said at the news conference that he was also beaten in the jail shower after refusing to wash his hair. Bruce said the sheriffs office determined that Flacher, who is white, was the aggressor. SHARE: People look at a the apartment building in Moscow, Russia, damaged by a drone in an attack that authorities blamed on Ukraine, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. A drone attack that targeted Moscow on Tuesday exposed glaring breaches in its air defenses and underlined the capitals vulnerability as more Russian soil comes under fire amid expectations of a Ukrainian counteroffensive. The attack, which lightly damaged three apartment buildings, angered Russias hawks, who scathingly criticized President Vladimir Putin and the military brass for failing to protect the heart of Kremlin power more than 500 kilometers (310 miles) from the front line. Five of the eight drones that took part in the raid were shot down, the Defense Ministry said, while three others were jammed and forced to veer off course. Some Russian media and bloggers alleged a larger number of drones were involved, but those claims couldnt be verified. The attack followed a May 3 drone strike on the Kremlin that lightly damaged the roof of the palace that includes one of Putins official residences. Other drones have crashed near Moscow in what Russian authorities described as botched Ukrainian attempts to attack the city and infrastructure facilities in the suburbs. Last week, the Russian border region of Belgorod was the target of one of the most serious cross-border raids since the war began, with two far-right pro-Ukrainian paramilitary groups claiming responsibility. Officials in the southern Russian city of Krasnodar near annexed Crimea said two drones struck there Friday, damaging residential buildings. The attacks also drew calls for bolstering Russias borders. Ukrainian authorities rejoiced over Tuesdays drone attack but customarily avoided a claim of responsibility, a response similar to what they said after previous attacks on Russian territory. In a sarcastic tweet, Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said that even artificial intelligence is already smarter and more far-sighted than the Russian military and political leadership. The Russian military pummeled the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv and other cities with cruise missiles and exploding drones for the past three nights, a significant spike in such attacks that have been regularly launched since October. The Ukrainian military said it shot down most of the missiles and remained coy about reporting damage from the strikes. Putin cast the attack on Moscow as a Ukrainian attempt to intimidate its residents. He said Moscows air defenses worked as expected, but admitted that protecting a huge city is a daunting task. Its clear what needs to be done to beef up air defenses, and we will do it, he added. Military watchers said the drones used in the attack were relatively crude and cheap but could have a range of up to 1,000 kilometers (over 620 miles). They predicted more could follow. Some of the drones seen flying toward Moscow were the Ukrainian-made UJ-22s, capable of carrying explosives; others spotted in the skies near Moscow were similarly small vehicles. Mark Cancian, a senior adviser with the Center for Strategic and International Studies International Security Program, noted that part of the reason why drones could make it all the way to Moscow undetected was because Russian air defenses are mostly focused on fending off attacks by more sophisticated weapons. They are oriented on missiles, ballistic missiles, regional missiles, aircraft, bombers, but not short- range drones, you know, which might be flying very low over the ground, Cancian told The Associated Press. The Russian air defense was just not designed to do this. The Russian military will likely move some of its air defense assets away from the front line to help protect Moscow, Cancian said, a move that would weaken Russian troops in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive. Thats good for the Ukrainians in the sense that theyre pulling these systems away from other areas where they could be used maybe from front-line units, he said. The Kremlins muted response to the attack irked some hawkish commentators and military bloggers in Moscow, who had criticized the Russian leadership for failing to mount a stronger response. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the maverick millionaire head of the Wagner private military contractor that plays a key role on the battlefield in Ukraine, scolded the Russian military leadership and denounced them as scum and swine for failing to protect Moscow. You, the Defense Ministry, have done nothing to launch an offensive, Prigozhin said in a statement released by his office. How dare you to allow the drones to reach Moscow? Ramzan Kadyrov, the strongman leader of the Russian province of Chechnya who sent forces from the region to fight in Ukraine, urged the Kremlin to declare martial law nationwide and use all its resources in Ukraine to sweep away that terrorist gang. Some Kremlin watchers noted that Putins calm reaction that contrasted with angry statements from Russian hawks reflects his belief that the public wont be unsettled by the attack. Putin has talked repeatedly about the Russian peoples remarkable patience and tenacity, Tatiana Stanovaya of the Carnegie Endowment said in a commentary. No matter how defiant another Ukrainian attack is, Putin doesnt think that it could provoke public discontent with the government. She noted that while playing down the strikes makes the authorities look embarrassed and helpless, it fits Putins course to drag out the conflict. James Nixey, the director of the Russia and Eurasia program at Chatham House, said Tuesdays attack signaled a growing Ukrainian determination to launch strikes deep inside Russia and predicted more will come. This is not the first and its not the last, Nixey told AP. The Ukrainians are in various respects flexing their muscles, seeing what theyre capable of hitting back. It is one more part of the Ukrainian play to ensure that they are not just playing defense, but they can play some offense as well. Despite the loud calls for revenge, the Russian military cant do much more than what it has been doing since starting the war, Nixey noted. The reality is that Russia does have limits in what it can do. Its got limits on manpower, limits on its finances, limits on its artillery munitions, missiles, drones, everything, he said. Theyre already expending all their efforts, all their monies, all their treasure, all their blood if you like on prosecuting their war in Ukraine. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition An Iowa mayor says five Davenport residents are missing, including two people who could still be in the wreckage of a partly collapsed apartment building. Davenport Mayor Mike Matson and the police chief confirmed the numbers at a news conference on Tuesday. Critics have accused the city of moving too quickly toward demolishing the building after it partially collapsed Sunday evening. Before the collapse, tenants had been allowed to remain in the building while repairs were being done. A woman was rescued Monday after authorities initially said no one was left inside. No fatalities have been reported. Dozens of people gathered outside the wreckage on Tuesday night and held a candlelight vigil. DAVENPORT, Iowa (AP) Five residents of a six-story apartment building that partially collapsed in eastern Iowa remained unaccounted for Tuesday, and authorities feared at least two of them might be stuck inside rubble that was too dangerous to search. The three other missing residents are not believed to have been in the building when it started collapsing Sunday evening, said state Rep. Monica Kurth. Mayor Mike Matson confirmed at a news conference that not all the residents were accounted for. A group of protesters held signs and chanted near the building Tuesday morning, arguing the city was moving too quickly toward demolishing the 116-year-old brick and steel structure. Built as a hotel, it had more recently been used as apartments, and tenants had been allowed to remain even as bricks began falling from the building. After the partial collapse, the city had announced plans to begin demolishing the unstable remains of the structure as early as Tuesday morning, but they delayed after a woman was found Monday evening. Officials now say immediate demolition was never intended, but they did want to quickly stage the site for the tear-down. The woman's rescue prompted officials to see if they could safely enter and ensure others weren't inside. But that is extremely difficult when the building could collapse at any time, they said. This could be a place of rest for some of the unaccounted, Matson said. The city is trying to determine how to bring down what remains of the building while maintaining the dignity of people who may have been killed, he said. Later Tuesday, there were no signs that authorities were conducting any sort of search. About 50 people had gathered outside a perimeter of fencing and police tape. Children drew hearts in chalk on the pavement, and a candlelight vigil included five minutes of silence in honor of the five people still missing. Fire Marshal James Morris said explosives will not be used on the building, which is near other structures and is unstable and continues to worsen." Removing the debris that is propping up the rest of the building could cause further collapse, he said. Were very sympathetic to the possibility that theres two people still left inside, Morris said as he fought back tears. He said there will be an investigation into what caused the collapse but that it's unclear so far whether a criminal investigation is warranted. Officials sought to explain why Fire Chief Michael Carlsten said Monday morning that no known individuals are trapped. The city also had issued a statement saying the owner was served Monday with a demolition order and the process would begin Tuesday morning. The discovery of another survivor Monday evening, rescued by ladder truck from a fourth-floor window, prompted the city to reevaluate, they said Tuesday. The woman was pulled to safety only after popping out a window screen and waving to people gathered below. We had no indications from any of the responders that we had, any of the canines, any of the tools at the time that there was anyone else left alive in the building, Morris said. Patricia Brooks said her sister, Lisa, attempted to leave the building but rushed back to where she thought she could shelter most safely in her bathtub. Brooks spoke with her sister when she was being evaluated at the hospital following rescue from a window on the side of the building that was still standing. It was just exhausting and a nightmare, Chicago resident Patricia Brooks said of the roughly 24 hours before Lisas rescue. The family begged with police and city officials to find Lisa in the apartment starting Sunday, said daughter Porshia Brooks. They allegedly did a sweep and said they didnt find anybody, said Porshia Brooks of Moline, Illinois. Theyre trying to tear the building down without doing a proper sweep. On Tuesday, protesters held signs saying Find Them First and Who is in the Rubble?" Some used a megaphone to shout out names of residents. The building had 53 tenants in about 80 units, the police chief said. City officials said rescue crews escorted 12 people from the building shortly after a middle section collapsed at about 5 p.m. Sunday, and rescued several others, including one person who was taken to safety overnight Sunday. There was a lot of screams, a lot of cries, a lot of people saying Help! when the building came down, Tadd Mashovec, a building resident, told KCCI-TV. But that did not last, and two or three minutes, and then the whole area was silent. It's unclear what caused the collapse, which left a gaping hole in the center of what was once the Davenport Hotel, a building listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. Built in 1907, the structure had been renovated into a mixed-use residential and commercial building. The building was designed so the exterior brick and steel frame support each other, so the loss of exterior brick can threaten the building's integrity, said structural engineer Larry Sandhaas. When you lose the brick, you lose the stability of the building, Sandhaas said. Building workers had been completing interior and exterior repairs in recent months, city records show. Reports of falling bricks were part of that work, said Rich Oswald, the citys director of development and neighborhood services. The fire marshal said Tuesday a structural engineer hired by the owner determined that the building was safe enough to remain occupied during the repairs. Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation activating assistance programs for the residents left homeless. After demolition was ordered, residents were prevented from going back inside for belongings due to the instability. Davenport Hotel, L.L.C., owned by Andrew Wold, acquired the building in 2021 in a property deal worth $4.2 million, according to county records. The city declared the building a nuisance in May 2022 due to numerous solid waste violations involving its overflowing dumpster, court records show. Wold did not contest the nuisance declaration and inspectors noted similar problems 19 times between then and March 2023, records show. The city took civil enforcement action, and a judge ordered Wold to pay a $4,500 penalty after he did not appear in court. Tuesday, the city filed a new enforcement action against Wold, saying that he had failed to maintain the property in a safe, sanitary, and structurally sound condition before the collapse. The city is seeking a $300 fine. City inspectors reviewed the ongoing repairs three days before the collapse, records show. Plans called for replacing 100 feet of brick to comply with city code starting May 25, and an interior cinder block wall with rebar and grout was partially installed as of last week, according to online inspection and permitting notes. Wall bracing will be installed per engineers design, the notes said. Engineer will stop over periodically to ensure work is being done per his design. City inspector will stop over periodically to see progress. An email sent to an attorney believed to be representing Wold was not immediately returned Tuesday night. The collapse didn't surprise former resident Schlaan Murray, who told The Associated Press that his one-year stay there was a nightmare. Murray, 46, moved into his apartment in February 2022 and almost immediately had issues with heat, air conditioning and bathroom plumbing. Calls to the management company rarely got a response, and even if workers did stop by, they didnt fix stuff, they just patched it up, he said. He questions how the building, where he said he didn't even want to bring his children, passed inspections. He moved out a month before his lease was up in March. It was horrible, Murray said. This story was first published on May 30, 2023. It was updated on May 31, 2023 to correct that the city is seeking a fine of $300, not $3,000. McFetridge and Fingerhut reported from Des Moines. Associated Press contributors include Ryan J. Foley in Iowa City, Kathy McCormack in Concord, New Hampshire, and Beatrice Dupuy in New York City. In this frame grab from body camera video provided by the Roswell Police Department, Tony Peralta leans against a police vehicle after turning himself in to authorities, in Roswell, N.M., May 1, 2023. Officers found Tony Peralta sitting on a curb not far from a convenience store where he borrowed a cell phone to call 911 and confess to the 2008 killing of his former landlord. Sweating and taking puffs from his cigarette, he told them hes tired of covering it up, tired of living with the lie and tired of being overwhelmed by guilt. He agreed to take the officers to where he buried the body before standing up and volunteering to be cuffed. Police in the southeastern New Mexico community of Roswell released the 911 recording and nearly an hour of officer body camera video in response to a records request filed by The Associated Press. The May 1 footage shows Peralta repeatedly thanking the officers for picking him up. I confess, man. I confess. I dont want to live life anymore without confessing, he said while sitting in an interview room at police headquarters. The uniformed officers and detectives who talked with Peralta peppered him with questions about when the killing happened, how he did it and why. Peralta kept answering that he didnt know or didnt remember, acknowledging that he had been drinking a lot the day he called 911. Peralta, 37, was arraigned Tuesday on a charge of first-degree murder. His public defender has said he will ensure Peraltas due process is respected as the case moves through court. A judge on Tuesday also set Peraltas trial for October but said that date could change. At times, the authorities had asked if Peralta was making up the story and leading them on a goose chase since he wasnt providing many details, other than saying he had killed someone a long time ago. Theres a dead body in there, dude! he told one officer while in the back of a patrol car parked in front of the home where he once was a tenant of 69-year-old William Blodgett. Peralta said hed feel better once the body was found. Investigators said they obtained a search warrant and found a boot, bones and dentures after removing plywood floorboards from a detached room on the side of the house. The dentures were compared with Blodgetts dental records obtained in early 2009 after he was reported missing and that led to a positive identification, according to police. A tearful Peralta told police he didnt know why he had killed Blodgett. At one point, police video shows him putting his head down onto a table during an interview and sobbing. Peralta told police he decided to come forward because his heart hurts and that he thought about it every day. He told an officer that Blodgett was a good man and that he took his life for no reason while high on methamphetamine. I dont have an excuse, he told police. A lot of people have an excuse. I dont have one. Blodgetts girlfriend and family had not seen him since late December 2008. She told police that Peralta, who was considered a suspect by police early on, allegedly had some sort or argument or fight with Blodgett, who had tried to evict him. Authorities at the time had talked to Blodgetts family, friends and neighbors and visited the home the two men shared, which appeared to have been abandoned with personal belongings still in place. Police found no immediate signs of foul play and Blodgetts vehicle was still there, according to the original missing person report. Detectives would periodically drive by the house but never spotted anyone. They also brought a dog trained to sniff for bodies to the property but found nothing. Police said the case went cold after investigators exhausted all leads until Peraltas 911 call. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Available for Roku, Fire TV, AppleTV WFMZ+ STREAMING NEW WAY TO WATCH! Brand New App to watch all of WFMZ-TV News and Syndicated Programing 24/7 on your Streaming App enabled TV. LEBANON, Pa. - Police in Lebanon County are investigating a shooting after two children and a teen were killed. It happened just after 10 p.m. Tuesday night in Lebanon City. Officials report they were called to the to the 400 block of N. 5th street for reported gunshots. When police arrived they say they found 4 people with gunshot wounds. In a press conference Wednesday morning Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello announced the ages of the victims as 8,9, and 19. They were identified as: 19-year-old Joshua Lugo-Perez, 8-year-old Jesus Perez-Salome, and 9-year-old Sebastian Perez-Salome. All of Lebanon. Two of the victims were taken to hospitals where they later died from their wounds. The third victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The final victim, a 33-year-old Lebanon man, underwent surgery and is currently recovering. "As the Mayor I am heartbroken for our community. We do not want to see any gun violence in our city, and certainly, not among our children," Capello said during the press conference. "Typically Lebanon City's gun violence is low, especially compared to other cities in our nation. However, even one gun shots fired is one too many." Officials believe the shooting was targeted and that multiple people were inside the home at the time. The shooting happened outside of the home, authorities confirm. During the press conference, Chief Bret Fisher reported that a search warrant was issued on N. 9th street Wednesday. He says during that search, a person of interest in the shooting was taken into police custody on an unrelated matter. No word on if police are searching for multiple suspects. Capello continued to say the Lebanon School District has been made aware of the student deaths. A statement being sent to parents from Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Arthur Abrom says: "A young persons death is always a heartbreaking and troubling event and the loss of a young life can have a profound effect on the students friends and classmates. It is important that we, as family members and educators, recognize this loss and offer assistance." The letter continues to say the district staff has put a plan into place to help students deal with their grief, including having a Student Assistance Team, trained to respond in the event of a crisis. School Counselors are also on site for students. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Lebanon City Police Department. Reporter Jack Reinhard is working to learn more information and will have updates tonight on 69 News. BERN TWP., Pa. Peter Buglino, owner of Piero Pizzeria in Bern Township, was busy with filling orders for lunch when he and his staff heard a very loud bang. They quickly realized what happened. "Next thing I know, there's a truck through the building," Buglino said. A box truck had literally crashed through the brick wall and window of the building, before coming to a stop in the dining room. "My first reaction was, 'I hope there's no one in the dining room because it looks pretty bad,'" Buglino said. "Glass all over, so I was happy nobody was there. Thank God nobody was there." No one was injured in the building, and the driver of the truck was not injured. Police say the driver was pulling out of the restaurant parking lot onto Route 183 North. That's when they say he fell off the driver's seat and caught the wheel, turning the box truck into the building. Buglino is now worried what's next for his pizzeria. Piero's is remaining open as the codes department assesses the damage. However, for Buglino, this couldn't have come at worse time. World War II Weekend is this weekend, and Piero's is located near the action. "A lot of people order pizza and subs," he said. "You know, they come and go, they come and go as they pick them up." It's one of Piero's best weekends for business. Buglino is hoping for the best. He's trying to stay optimistic. "Hopefully, the damage is not that bad, and we can stay open," he said. HARRISBURG, Pa. - Senior citizens and others who were counting on receiving farmers' market vouchers in early June will be disappointed. A problem with printing the checks will delay distribution until the end of the month, according to a statement from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. "The vendor selected to print the 2023 checks has informed the Dept. of AG that the previously agreed upon check delivery date of June 1, 2023, is no longer feasible," the statement, provided by Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure, says. The printer is in Utah and has not yet received the paper needed to print checks. The Department of Agriculture is switching to a check with QR codes this year, requiring a specialty paper. Residents who receive the vouchers through WIC (Women, Infants and Children) and eligible senior citizens can use them at approved markets. WIC recipients will receive 3 vouchers of $10 each, while eligible seniors will receive five $10 vouchers. The program runs through Nov. 30. Recipients must be in the WIC program or over 60 and meet income guidelines. The list of farmers' markets that will accept the vouchers and information about eligibility can be found at the state website. BETHLEHEM, Pa. - A plan to build 317 apartments on the border of Bethlehem and Allentown, potentially blurring the line between the two cities, will go back before Bethlehem's Zoning Hearing on June 14. Developer Norton Herrick's plan for four buildings on an 8.74-acre tract includes four parcels and has two main addresses -- 2300 Hanover Ave. in Allentown, and 2235 W. Broad St. in Bethlehem. The site is a former auto dealership, vacant and mostly paved over, about a block south of the Lehigh Shopping Center. Neighbors have complained about water runoff and traffic. City documents list the developer as BAHX LLC, a New Jersey company that shares an office with the Herrick Co. Herrick is also an investor in the plan to turn the former site of Martin Tower, Bethlehem Steel Corp.'s headquarters, into more than 1,000 apartments. The Martin Tower and Hanover Avenue proposals would add about 1,400 residences, almost all in Bethlehem. The Hanover Avenue development would straddle the border between Allentown and Bethlehem, but most of the property is in Bethlehem and all is in Lehigh County. The first hearing on the plan lasted more than four hours and at one point, focused on what could be considered the front of the building. The developer is seeking relief from the 180-foot limit on buildings. The proposed apartment buildings could be as long as 290 feet. BAHX is also seeking to provide ground-level parking instead of the commercial space required by Bethlehem's zoning code. Having parking on the first floor would allow the developer to reduce the paved area and provide more green space, according to the developer. In addition to four apartment buildings, the plan includes amenities including a clubhouse, pool, pickleball courts and a dog park. The Bethlehem Zoning Hearing Board will consider the plan at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 14, in Town Hall. The agenda and a link to a livestream of the meeting are on the city website. Zoning meeting agendas are subject to change. WASHINGTON A man from the Lehigh Valley was one of two people found guilty May 24 of assaulting police officers during the Jan. 6 breach of the U.S. Capitol. Craig Michael Bingert, 31, of Allentown, was convicted of obstruction of an official proceeding; assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers; civil disorder, all felonies; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds; and engaging in an act of physical violence in the grounds or any of the Capitol buildings, according to a news release from the Department of Justice. Isaac Steve Sturgeon, 34, of Dillon, Montana, was found guilty of the same crimes, the DOJ said. Both will be sentenced Aug. 25. The DOJ says their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress in the process of ascertaining and counting the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election. According to evidence presented at trial, on Jan. 6, 2021, Bingert and Sturgeon marched to the grounds of the U.S. Capitol Building where they advanced up the southwest stairs and assaulted a line of police officers, according to the news release. Bingert and Sturgeon were at the front of a mob facing a line of police officers, and after a fellow rioter counted down 1,2,3 Go!, Bingert and Sturgeon each grabbed the barricade in front of the police officers and pushed it into the officers, the DOJ said. Then, along with other rioters, Bingert and Sturgeon lifted the barricade up to crawl underneath it in an attempt to break through the police line, according to the DOJ. Following the assault, both Bingert and Sturgeon remained on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol Building, including on and around the inaugural stage, until they were removed by law enforcement, the DOJ said. The DOJ says Sturgeon posted videos of violence against the police to his social media accounts, and in one, he stated that this is a (expletive) revolution. In the 28 months since Jan. 6, more than 1,000 people have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 320 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, the DOJ says. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov. HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) Teachers are leaving their jobs at an accelerating rate in Pennsylvania, amid fears of a nationwide exodus of burned-out teachers and a collapse in enrollment in recruitment programs that is making teachers increasingly difficult to replace. A new analysis by Penn State's Center for Education Evaluation and Policy Analysis shows that the rate of teacher attrition in Pennsylvania grew faster in the 2022-23 school year and hit its highest point in a decade of tracking. That reflects a pattern that is starting to emerge in other states and as schools across the country struggle to find teachers. Ed Fuller, the Penn State education professor who conducted the analysis, said he has seen data from 12 states with similar increases in this school year. Over the past two years, schools saw relatively modest changes in attrition even as teachers reported more dissatisfaction with the job amid the travails of the COVID-19 pandemic, growing workloads, shrinking autonomy and increasingly hostile school environments. But now, labor markets are tight and it's much easier for teachers to find jobs near where they live, Fuller said. Fuller's analysis shows that Pennsylvania saw a 1.5 percentage point increase in teacher attrition this year, the largest increase in the past decade. All told, the attrition rate was 7.7% in 2022-23, up from 6.2% in 2021-22 and 5.4% in 2020-21. That comes out to nearly 9,600 leaving their jobs in 2022-23, nearly doubling the number of newly certified teachers in Pennsylvania in 2022. The previous high was 7.5% in 2014. The figures include terminations, resignations and retirements. The study did not track whether a teacher left for a teaching job in another state or took a non-teaching job in the education profession, for instance as an administrator. Amid lackluster enrollments in colleges and programs that train teachers, the drop-off in teacher certifications is particularly steep in Pennsylvania, tumbling from 15,000 in 2011 to under 6,000 in 2021. Fuller's analysis found a number of long-term trends that he said are similar across states: teachers showing the highest rate of leaving the profession are Black and Hispanic. In those cases, male teachers left at a higher rate than their female counterparts. Attrition rates were also higher at charter and cyber-charter schools and poorer public schools. Those schools tend to suffer higher turnover, pay less and hire newer teachers, including many teachers of color. In addition, middle school teachers left at a higher rate than teachers at other levels, Fuller found. By county, Philadelphia had, by far, the highest attrition rate, at 16.4%. That is due primarily to high attrition rates of charter schools in the city, Fuller said. In addition to the time and effort required to find a replacement, research has shown that teacher turnover has a negative effect on student outcomes, school climate and teacher quality, Fuller said. Usually a less experienced teacher is hired as a replacement, Fuller said. At the moment, state lawmakers and Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro are looking at ways to address the teacher shortage, including stipends for student teachers and tax credits for newly certified teachers. In Delaware County's Upper Darby School District, Superintendent Daniel McGarry wants to start a "grow your own" program to start paying 24 high school graduates or community members to work as apprentices in the schools while the district pays for their education to get certified. Sherri Smith, executive director of the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators, said attrition comes up in every conversation as she travels the state to talk with school officials. "I don't go into a meeting where we don't talk about educator workforce and what we're facing," she said. Tomas Hanna, an associate superintendent for the Philadelphia School District, said at a news conference this month that the district that once had 1,200 student teachers now is down to 362. Jerry Jordan, president of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, said teachers are leaving because they feel overwhelmed and not supported. Paying teachers more and boosting school funding is vital, he said. When schools can't find fully certified teachers, they hire teachers who aren't fully credentialed. Those teachers have limited skills, and it's tougher for them, resulting in constant turnover, Jordan said. "It becomes a real cycle of putting in teacher after teacher with an emergency certification," Jordan said. "The teachers become frustrated and they leave because they're not getting support they need and they're not making a lot of money, so they move on. You have a revolving door." Follow Marc Levy on Twitter: @timelywriter 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. EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa. - A Monroe County man is accused of sexually assaulting two children. Andrew Lissitz, of East Strooudsburg, faces charges of aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault, and endangering the welfare of a child, according to a news release from the Warren County, New Jersey Prosecutor's Office. In July 2020, one victim reported to law enforcement that Lissitz sexually abused her when she was six years old, the prosecutor's office said. After an investigation, authorities say Lissitz sexually abused the child on two separate occasions. In September 2021, another victim reported that Lissitz sexually abused her when she was approximately seven years old, according to the news release. After an investigation, authorities say Lissitz sexually abused the second victim on at least one occasion. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information regarding the incidents or has additional information concerning Lissitz, contact the Warren County Prosecutor's Office, Special Victim's Unit at 908-475-6040 or 908-475-6060. Lissitz remains in Warren County Jail pending his first appearance in Warren County Superior Court. TOWAMENCIN TWP., Pa. -At the Towamencin water treatment facility, it's business as usual. But if you drive around the township, you'll see evidence of a controversy brewing between residents and township supervisors about the future of the plant. "About a year and a half ago, our township started some dealings about selling the sewer system," said resident Valerie Skripak. Skirpak has lived in the township for 31 years and has a sign that reads "Stop The Sewer Plant Sale" in her yard. Right now, residents pay a flat $450 sewer fee a year. Skirpak says she knows that it's time for a rate increase, but says the proposed sale would increase the total bill for her two properties by 350 percent a year. She says based on her calculations, the average home would see an annual bill of around $1200. She's one of many residents who worked to get a home rule charter proposal on the May 16 ballot to block the sale. It passed by 315 votes and goes into effect July 1. But township officials say the sale is in the best financial interest of the township and its residents. The township released a statement on behalf of the supervisors: "We are aware of the unofficial results regarding the Home Rule Charter from the election last week. Although the vote was close, the Home Rule Charter did pass, and we acknowledge that the Charter will be the law of the Township as of July 1. However, the relevant issue at this time is whether a prospective law can upend a contract. As we have previously stated, and as we have shared with the opponents of the sewer system sale, the Township legal team does not believe the passage of the Home Rule Charter negates the sewer sale under current Pennsylvania law and the Pennsylvania Constitution. There is strong legal precedent against overturning pre-existing contracts based on the passage of new laws. As such, we do not intend to seek to terminate the contract. We, as elected representatives of our citizens, continue to believe firmly that the sale is in the best interest of our community. "We explored privatization in accordance with Pennsylvanias Act 12 of 2016 (sale of municipal water/wastewater systems for fair market value), believing it was our duty to do so. Throughout this 18-month journeyincluding learning about how the Act 12 fair market value process works, retaining municipal finance experts, identifying current and future township needs, evaluating the benefits of a sale, pre-qualifying bidders and then finally making the decision to sell we exercised due diligence and transparency. We remain confident that, after considering the many benefits to our community, we have made the right decision. We intend to honor our contractual commitments. We are committed to working with PA American Water Co. on a smooth transition. "This matter is pending at the Public Utility Commission. The Public Utility Commission is the statewide agency with jurisdiction to determine whether the transaction is in the public interest and to ensure that rates will be just and reasonable. The Township is confident that the Commission, after full consideration of the mounting environmental challenges of the system and other relevant facts, will find that the transaction is in the public interest." Kofi Osei is the founder of the Towamencin Neighbors Opposed to Privatization. "After July 1, if neither the supervisors or American Water who are proposing to buy the sewer system have terminated the contract, then we will try to ask a judge to compel the township to terminate the agreement," said Osei. Osaei says NOPE has filed an official protest of the sale with the PUC. NOPE is also encouraging residents to attend the June supervisors' meetings to make their voices heard. American Water did not return a request for comment on the sale. PHILLIPSBURG, N.J. - A Warren County, New Jersey man is being accused of sexually assaulting a victim at gunpoint. Qasim Woods, 41, of Phillipsburg, is charged with unlawful possession of a weapon, tampering with physical evidence, aggravated sexual assault, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, terroristic threats, and receiving stolen property, according to a news release from the Warren County Prosecutor's Office. On May 18, a victim reported being sexually assaulted at gunpoint by Woods, the prosecutor's office said. The victim told authorities that Woods made threats to kill the victim during the assault, according to the news release. The prosecutor's office says Woods was found with a silver revolver believed to have been used during the sexual assault. Authorities say the firearm was reported stolen out of Pennsylvania. Woods is currently at Warren County Jail pending his first appearance in Warren County Superior Court. Cardboard gravestones with the names of victims of opioid abuse are set up outside the courthouse where the Purdue Pharma bankruptcy is taking place in White Plains, New York, in August 2021. A federal court ruling cleared the way Tuesday for OxyContin maker Purdue Pharmas settlement of thousands of legal claims over the toll of opioids. Under the plan approved by the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York, members of the wealthy Sackler family would give up ownership of Stamford, Connecticut-based Purdue, which would become a new company known as Knoa, with its profits being used to fight the opioid crisis. They would also contribute $5.5 billion to $6 billion in cash over time. A chunk of that money at least $750 million is to go to individual victims of the opioid crisis and their survivors. Only one other major opioid lawsuit settlement includes payments for victims. Tuesdays decision also protects members of the Sackler family from lawsuits over the toll of opioids, even though they did not file for bankruptcy. The courts ruling reversed a 2021 ruling that found bankruptcy court judges did not have the authority to approve a settlement that would offer bankruptcy protections for those who have not filed for bankruptcy. Those protections are at the heart of the proposed deal that would end claims against Purdue filed by thousands of state, local and Native American tribal governments and other entities. Its a great day for victims, some of who desperately need the money and have been waiting for this day for a long time, said Ed Neiger, a lawyer representing individual victims. Sackler family members have been clear: If they dont get the legal protections, they wont do their part of the deal. The Sackler families believe the long-awaited implementation of this resolution is critical to providing substantial resources for people and communities in need, family members who own Purdue said in a statement Tuesday. We are pleased with the Courts decision to allow the agreement to move forward and look forward to it taking effect as soon as possible. Purdue issued its own statement, calling the ruling a victory for Purdues creditors, including the states, local governments, and victims who overwhelmingly support the Plan of Reorganization. The company said it would focus on delivering billions of dollars of value for victim compensation, opioid crisis abatement, and overdose rescue medicines. Several states had been withholding support for the plan, but after a new round of negotiations last year, all of them came on board. That left just one high-profile objector: the Office of the U.S. Bankruptcy Trustee, an arm of the Justice Department. A lawyer from that office told the 2nd Circuit in April 2022 that its a fundamental inconsistency that people who do not seek bankruptcy protection and have to give up most of their assets could be exempted from some lawsuits. The Justice Department has not immediately said whether it would appeal Tuesdays ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court. A spokesperson declined comment Tuesday. The latest version of the settlement must still be approved by a bankruptcy court judge before it can be finalized. While Sackler family members still technically own Purdue, they stopped receiving money from the company years ago. All three federal appeals judges who heard the Purdue case last year agreed that the Sackler family can be protected from lawsuits. But one Richard Wesley said in a separate opinion that he did so reluctantly, noting that while courts allow such deals theyre not explicitly allowed under bankruptcy law. Purdue is perhaps the highest-profile player in the opioid industry. But several other drugmakers, distribution companies and pharmacies also have been sued by state and local governments. While a handful of cases have gone to trial, many also are being settled. The total value of proposed and finalized settlements in recent years is more than $50 billion. Companies that have reached deals include drugmakers Johnson & Johnson and Teva; distribution giants AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson; and pharmacy chains CVS, Walgreens and Walmart. Most of the money is required to be used to fight the opioid crisis, which has been linked to more than 500,000 deaths in the U.S. over the past two decades, including more than 70,000 a year recently. In recent years, most of the deaths have been connected to fentanyl and other illicit synthetic opioids, not prescription painkillers. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition A Democrat is hoping to unseat the Republican incumbent in one of New Jersey's congressional districts. Sue Altman announced Wednesday she is running for the newly-redrawn NJ-7, which consists of all of Hunterdon and Warren counties, and parts of Morris, Somerset and Union counties. She'll be running in the Democratic primary for the 2024 general election, a year and a half away. The seat is currently held by Tom Kean Jr., who won a close race in 2022 against two-term Rep. Tom Malinowski. Altman says she will fight rising costs and high taxes, and will fight for abortion rights and against gun violence. The Lambertville resident grew up in Clinton, and for the last few years has served as executive director of the New Jersey Working Families Alliance. BLAIRSTOWN TWP., N.J. - Authorities say a 67-year-old woman suffered some burns to her face after an accident involving chlorine at a home in Warren County, New Jersey Wednesday. It happened around 11 a.m. in Blairstown Township, across the river from the Delaware Water Gap area. Township police say the woman was mixing chlorine for the pool and accidentally splashed some in her face, which caused some burns. No other injuries were reported. A Kansas City woman is searching for answers after discovering a well-maintained Army uniform in a ditch by the side of the road. Now she's on the hunt to find the owner's family. The Army uniform looks so well-maintained, Luann Palmer is sure someone has been taking very good care of it. She's confused how it ended up in a ditch by the family home on a remote road. "It's been hung up, somebody took great care of it, somebody has to know something," she said. In one of the pockets, there was a love letter addressed to Howard Pennington from a woman which reads in part, "Sweetheart my love, I miss you very much." With the letter and a 1957 postmark from Verdun, France, Luann reached out to a social media sleuth to help her find answers. After doing some research, Molly Jennings and her daughter found Pennington's relatives in Missouri, but they didn't know anything about the uniform or the letter. "I really just want to know who had it. I want to know why they kept it safe for 65 years," said Jennings. Molly and her daughter learned Pennington was assigned to an area Army combat engineers unit. They also found out he died three days after the postmark on the letter. They don't know if he received it or how he died. The sleuths also discovered that Pennington's commanding officer lived in nearby Leavenworth and still has family in that area, so maybe that will lead to a connection. CAIRO (AP) Sudans military suspended its participation in talks with a paramilitary force it's been battling for weeks for control of the northeastern African country, a military spokesman said Wednesday. The development was a blow to the United States and Saudi Arabia, who have been mediating between the two sides. The conflict has plunged Sudan into chaos. Brig. Nabil Abdalla, a spokesperson for the Sudanese armed forces, told The Associated Press that the move is a protest against the Rapid Support Forces repeated violations of the humanitarian cease-fire, including their continued occupation of hospitals and other civilian infrastructure in the capital, Khartoum. Sudan descended into chaos after fighting erupted in mid-April between the military, led by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo. The fighting has killed at least 866 civilians and wounded thousands more, according to the Sudanese Doctors Syndicate, which tracks civilian casualties. The toll could be much higher, the medical group had previously said. Abdalla, the spokesperson, said the military wants to ensure that the terms of a U.S.-Saudi-brokered truce be fully implemented before discussing further steps. He did not elaborate. On May 21, both sides signed a cease-fire agreement allowing for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and the restoration of essential services destroyed in the clashes. They also agreed to stop the looting of residential properties and humanitarian aid, as well as the taking over of civilian infrastructure such as hospitals and power plants. There was no immediate comment from Saudi Arabia or the United States. So far, there have been seven declared cease-fires, all of which have been violated to some extent. Responding to the military's move, the RSF said it unconditionally backs the Saudi-U.S. initiative. Two other senior military officials said the army sent a letter to the Saudi and American mediators detailing what they called the RSF violations. They said the military delegation was still in the venue of the talks in the Saudi coastal city of Jeddah. One of the officials said the decision was prompted by the mediators' efforts to move to the next stage of negotiations without fully implementing the terms of the humanitarian cease-fire. That stage includes a long-term cease-fire and engaging in negotiations to settle the disputes between the two sides, he said. Both senior officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief media. For only the fifth time since he took office in January 2017, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday asked to brief the Security Council behind closed doors on Sudan, a sign of his increasing concern about the fighting and the U.N.s operations in the country. Guterres briefing followed Burhan's demand in a letter to the secretary-general last Friday that the U.N. special envoy to Sudan, Volker Perthes, be removed, saying his approach in pre-war talks between the generals helped inflame the conflict and accusing him of being partisan. The U.N. chief was shocked by the letter. In brief remarks to reporters after the closed meeting, Guterres said he reaffirmed to the council my full confidence in Volker Perthes and told the 15 council members it's up to them to decide whether to continue the U.N. political mission in Sudan, which Perthes leads, or whether its time to end it. The political mission, known as UNITAMS, was established by the council on June 3, 2020, to provide support to Sudan during its political transition to democratic rule. An October 2021 military coup upended Sudans democratic transition after a popular uprising forced the military to remove autocratic President Omar al-Bashir in April 2019. UNITAMS mandate was extended twice and expires on Saturday, and the council needs to decide on its future this week. The United States, United Kingdom and many other countries voiced support for Perthes at Wednesdays meeting. But when Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia was asked whether he supports the U.N. envoy he replied, we support UNITAMS," adding that perhaps the situation in Sudan needs to be stabilized before the council decides how the U.N. presence can be effective. On Tuesday, the military released footage that showed Burhan inspecting troops. The army chief warned that the military would resort to full lethal force if the RSF doesnt respond to the voice of reason. The militarys aircrafts were also seen flying over the capital. Residents, meanwhile, reported clashes late Tuesday in parts of Khartoum and its neighboring city of Omdurman. Both sides traded blame for violating the cease-fire. The militarys move came two days after the sides agreed to extend the shaky cease-fire for five more days, after Washington and Riyadh signaled impatience with persistent truce violations. In a joint statement Sunday, the U.S. and Saudi Arabia called out both warring sides for specific breaches of a weeklong truce rather than issue another general appeal to respect agreements. The statement said the military continued to carry out airstrikes, while the RSF was still occupying peoples homes and seizing properties. Fuel, money, aid supplies and vehicles belonging to a humanitarian convoy were stolen, with theft occurring both in areas controlled by the military and by the RSF, it added. The fighting has caused widespread destruction in residential areas in Khartoum and its adjacent cities of Omdurman and Bahri. Residents reported storming and looting of their homes, mostly by the RSF. Many posted photos and videos of their looted homes on social media, condemning the pillaging. The conflict has also turned Khartoum and other urban areas into battlefields, forcing more than 1.65 million people to flee their homes to safer areas inside Sudan or cross into neighboring countries, according to U.N. figures released Wednesday. Early on, foreign governments raced to evacuate their diplomats and nationals as thousands of foreign residents scrambled to get out of the country. According to the U.N.s International Organization for Migration, around 425,500 people fleeing the conflict have crossed into neighboring countries. Egypt is hosting the largest number of refugees with more than 175,500, followed by Chad with around 114,700 and South Sudan with over 85,200, said the IOM . Associated Press writer Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations contributed. HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) Zimbabwe's national elections will take place on Aug. 23, the country's president announced Wednesday. The vote is expected to be another closely watched affair in a country with a history of violent and disputed elections. The announcement through a government gazette also set Oct. 2 for a presidential runoff vote if required. Opposition parties have already made allegations of violence and intimidation against their supporters in the buildup to the elections, and human rights groups have said President Emmerson Mnangagwa is silencing criticism. The southern African nation has only had two leaders since it gained independence from white minority rule in 1980. Robert Mugabe led Zimbabwe for 37 years until he was removed and replaced by Mnangagwa in a coup in 2017. Mnangagwa had served as a vice president under Mugabe. The last general election was held in 2018, nearly a year after the coup. Once a close ally of Mugabe, Mnangagwa, 80, has tried to present himself as a reformer despite accusations that he is even more repressive than the man he helped remove from power. Mnangagwa is expected to face a strong challenge from Nelson Chamisa, the 45-year-old leader of the main opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change. Chamisa narrowly lost to Mnangagwa in 2018, with the Constitutional Court dismissing his claims of election rigging. Apart from the presidency, the election will also decide the composition of the 300-seat parliament and close to 2,000 local council positions. Mnangagwas ZANU-PF ruling party and the government have denied allegations of violence and intimidation by ruling party activists and security forces. But rights groups have accused Mnangagwas government of intimidation and of suppressing any criticism and opposition amid a currency crisis and a sharp rise in food prices. Zimbabwe has faced severe economic problems for years and has been under U.S. sanctions for two decades over human rights abuses. Mugabe died in 2019. Chamisa said this week he is ready for the election, but has made allegations of voting roll irregularities. Compounding that, Chamisa said his party is at a disadvantage because Mnangagwa and ZANU-PF control staterun media and hold sway over the police, other security forces and the judiciary, which are used to clamp down on dissent. On Wednesday, Fadzayi Mahere, spokeswoman for the Citizens Coalition for Change, tweeted: No govt thats popular & knows its winning behaves like this. Theyre terrified cause, like all of us, they know that ZANU PF can never win a free & fair election in Zimbabwe." "Thats why theyre trying to stitch & doctor the voters roll but it wont work. People want change. Opposition parties had accused Mnangagwa of delaying announcing a date for the election that must take place before the end of August. Mnangagwa's announcement came a day after Zimbabwe's foreign ministry summoned the United States deputy ambassador over a series of tweets the embassy sent calling for a peaceful election. The ministry accused the embassy of election-related social media posts bordering on activism and meddling in Zimbabwes internal affairs. Deputy Ambassador Elaine French was called to a meeting with Zimbabwe foreign affairs acting permanent secretary Rofina Chikava on Tuesday following the posts on the U.S. Embassy's official Twitter account. The Zimbabwe foreign ministry said it had a particular issue with a May 26 tweet that called for Zimbabweans to Register to vote and make sure your voice is heard. Another tweet from the embassy said Zimbabwes constitution grants citizens the right to choose their representatives in legitimate, credible, & peaceful elections. The foreign ministry said the tweet urging people to register to vote was against diplomatic protocols. We stand by our recent social media posts calling for peace during the election season," U.S. Embassy spokeswoman Meg Riggs said in a statement. Elections are a part of a functioning democracy. More AP Africa news: https://apnews.com/hub/africa KYODO NEWS - May 31, 2023 - 18:59 | All, World, Japan North Korea's launch of what was claimed to be a rocket carrying a spy satellite ended in failure Wednesday, drawing a swift rebuke from the United States and its regional allies for the use of ballistic missile technology. The 6:27 a.m. firing came on the initial day of a launch window announced by North Korea for its first "military reconnaissance satellite," with the nation pledging to make another attempt "as soon as possible," according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency. The projectile fired from a site near Tongchang-ri, northwestern North Korea, may have disappeared over the Yellow Sea at around 6:35 a.m., the Japanese government said, adding it did not reach the intended distance announced by Pyongyang. The South Korean military said the projectile was a long-range ballistic missile that fell about 200 kilometers from the country's Eocheong Island in the Yellow Sea and it was retrieving an object that seemed to be part of what the North called a "space launch vehicle." KCNA said "serious defects" appeared, and the rocket carrying the spy satellite experienced an abnormal firing of its second-stage engine and lost propulsion, adding the failure was attributed to the "low reliability and stability of the new-type engine system." Senior officials of Japan, the United States and South Korea held phone talks and "strongly condemned" the latest launch involving the use of ballistic missile technology in violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, according to the Japanese government. The resolutions banning North Korea from utilizing ballistic technology have led to the imposition of sanctions on the country. Takehiro Funakoshi, the Foreign Ministry's Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau chief, and his South Korean and U.S. counterparts, Kim Gunn and Sung Kim, agreed to continue monitoring the North's moves, the Japanese government said. Meanwhile, China, North Korea's most influential security ally, has criticized the United States for stirring tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters in Beijing that current conditions on the peninsula are "something that China did not want to see," adding that meaningful dialogue is "the only way to prevent further deterioration of the situation." The firing of the projectile came after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un instructed his country's space agency to make final preparations for the launch of Pyongyang's first military reconnaissance satellite. Shortly after the launch, the Japanese government issued a J-Alert warning urging residents in the southern island prefecture of Okinawa to take shelter, but it was lifted around 35 minutes later after it was confirmed that the projectile was unlikely to fall on the nation's territory. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters in Tokyo that the government was collecting and analyzing information about the launch and there were no reports of damage from the projectile. Tokyo lodged a protest with Pyongyang over the launch, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno, the top government spokesman, said at a press conference, adding whether the projectile was a rocket with a satellite was still "under analysis." Pyongyang has notified the Japan Coast Guard of three maritime danger zones in which an object could land during the launch period between Wednesday and June 11. Two of the areas are located to the west of the Korean Peninsula and the third to the east of the Philippines, with all three outside of Japan's exclusive economic zone. Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada told reporters that the Self-Defense Forces will maintain their vigilance and readiness to intercept as the designated launch window has not yet concluded. On Monday, Hamada ordered the SDF to destroy any projectile fired by North Korea if it was expected to cross into Japanese territory. But ground-based Patriot Advanced Capability-3 interceptor missiles were not deployed at a planned site on Okinawa Prefecture's Ishigaki Island in the East China Sea due to the approach of a typhoon, a source familiar with the matter said. The SDF have deployed PAC-3 systems on the remote islands of Miyako and Yonaguni in the southern prefecture. On Monday, Ri Pyong Chol, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea, said the North's military reconnaissance satellite was "indispensable to tracking, monitoring, discriminating, controlling and coping with in advance in real time the dangerous military acts of the U.S. and its vassal forces." Noting "the reckless military acts" of the United States and South Korea, "We steadily feel the need to expand reconnaissance and information means and improve various defensive and offensive weapons," Ri said. Pyongyang, which launched missiles a record 37 times last year, has continued firing ballistic missiles this year, with fears mounting that the country may be preparing to conduct its seventh nuclear test in the near future. Wednesday's launch by North Korea came as Kishida has expressed eagerness to establish senior-level negotiations to realize talks with Kim "at the earliest opportunity" to seek the return of Japanese nationals abducted by Pyongyang in the 1970s and 1980s. Matsuno said later in the day that negotiations between Japan and North Korea should progress toward resolving the abduction issue despite North Korea's launch of a military reconnaissance satellite. Related coverage: North Korea says "reconnaissance satellite" to be launched in June North Korea willing to talk with Japan, claims abduction issue resolved KYODO NEWS - May 31, 2023 - 20:00 | All, Japan, World ---------- North Korean launch of "spy satellite" fails due to rocket trouble TOKYO - North Korea's launch of what was claimed to be a rocket carrying a spy satellite ended in failure Wednesday, drawing a swift rebuke from the United States and its regional allies for the use of ballistic missile technology. The 6:27 a.m. firing came on the initial day of a launch window announced by North Korea for its first "military reconnaissance satellite," with the nation pledging to make another attempt "as soon as possible," according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency. ---------- U.S. governors urge post-COVID investment, tourism from Japan WASHINGTON - Some American governors are calling for more corporate investment and tourism from Japan, the top direct investor in the United States, hoping it would help local economies in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. "We have great expectations for Japanese companies," Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly said at an event in a Washington suburb earlier this month to promote foreign direct investment. ---------- Japan enacts law for operating nuclear reactors beyond 60-yr limit TOKYO - Japan's parliament passed a bill Wednesday that allows nuclear reactors in the country to be operated beyond the current limit of 60 years to help cut carbon emissions and ensure an adequate national energy supply despite lingering concerns over the safety of aging reactors. The law on power sources for green transformation and decarbonization amends five laws associated with energy at once, including the electricity business law, under which the life span of reactors will be regulated. ---------- Kishida eyes Japan's child care budget boost of about 3.5 tril. yen TOKYO - Prime Minister Fumio Kishida instructed his ministers on Wednesday to increase Japan's annual child care budget by around 3.5 trillion yen ($25 billion) during a three-year target period to cope with the declining birth rate. The figure marks an increase from the around 3 trillion yen previously suggested for child care support from fiscal 2024. To secure part of the funding, the government will issue bridge bonds until it decides on an alternative, stable funding source by fiscal 2028, sources familiar with the discussions said. ---------- Foreign hotel guests in Japan top 10 mil. for 1st time in 3 yrs TOKYO - The number of foreigners who stayed at hotels and other accommodation facilities in Japan topped 10 million in April for the first time since January 2020, government data showed Wednesday, buoyed by a weaker yen and an increase in the number of international flights. The figure rose 19.5-fold from a year before to 10.38 million, equivalent to 92.0 percent of the total in April 2019 before the coronavirus outbreak, according to the preliminary data released by the Japan Tourism Agency. ---------- Toyota customer data in Asia likely leaked due to erroneous settings TOKYO - Toyota Motor Corp. said Wednesday that some customer information, such as names and addresses, from the Asia and Oceania regions may have been leaked due to incorrect cloud computing settings, with the total number of affected customers still under investigation. The announcement comes after the Japanese carmaker said earlier this month that the vehicle information of about 2.15 million customers was publicly accessible due to a similar mistake. ---------- Japan's April industrial output falls 0.4% on month TOKYO - Japan's industrial output in April fell 0.4 percent from the previous month, marking the first decline in three months, affected by decreased domestic and overseas orders, government data showed Wednesday. The seasonally adjusted index of production at factories and mines stood at 95.5 against the 2015 base of 100, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry said in a preliminary report. The decline followed an upwardly revised 1.1 percent expansion in March. ---------- Sumo: Kiribayama promoted to ozeki, changes ring name to Kirishima TOKYO - The Japan Sumo Association unanimously decided Wednesday to promote Kiribayama to the sport's second-highest rank of ozeki, following his recent run of strong results. Upon his promotion, the 27-year-old from Mongolia, whose real name is Byambachuluun Lkhagvasuren, changed his ring name to Kirishima, formerly used by his stablemaster Michinoku when he was an active wrestler. ---------- Video: Tornado in Hokkaido KYODO NEWS - May 31, 2023 - 19:57 | Others Japan's parliament passed a bill Wednesday that allows nuclear reactors in the country to be operated beyond the current limit of 60 years to help cut carbon emissions and ensure an adequate national energy supply despite lingering concerns over the safety of aging reactors. The law on power sources for green transformation and decarbonization amends five laws associated with energy at once, including the electricity business law, under which the life span of reactors will be regulated. Some lawmakers and citizens said the bill was hastily passed without adequate deliberation, and public concerns about the safety of aging reactors were not properly addressed. Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura told reporters that the government will continue holding nationwide in-person or online briefing sessions to deepen public understanding of the law. In Japan, fossil fuel-fired plants generate roughly 70 percent of the nation's total electricity. The 2011 Fukushima nuclear crisis led to the closure of all nuclear reactors, with most reactors remaining offline as they must meet stricter safety standards introduced after the disaster in order to restart. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said last summer the government will take the necessary steps to push ahead with the restart of more units, instructing the government to look into how the country can maximize its nuclear energy facilities most effectively. The tougher safety standards under the reactor regulation law limit the service period of a nuclear reactor to 40 years, in principle, and up to 60 years if proper safety upgrades are made. But under the new rules, nuclear reactors may be granted additional operating years in effect as their offline periods will not be counted against their total service time provided the periods are due to reasons beyond a utility's control, such as safety reviews needed for a restart and court-ordered suspensions. The industry minister will give approval for extending the life of nuclear reactors on a case-by-case basis. In addition, under the amended reactor regulation law, the country's Nuclear Regulation Authority will check the condition of reactors and related facilities at least every 10 years after 30 years of operating to ensure the safety of old facilities. The government has said it will decide on the details of standards for granting extensions before the law takes effect, while critics have pointed out that specific ways to assess the age-related deterioration of reactors beyond 60 years of operation, among other issues, remain unclear. Russia's war in Ukraine, which started in late February 2022, drove energy prices sharply higher and threatened stable energy supplies for Japan -- a resource-scarce country that relies heavily on fossil fuel imports -- prompting officials to look into greater use of nuclear power. Related coverage: Japan Cabinet OKs bills to extend nuclear reactor life beyond 60 yrs KYODO NEWS - May 31, 2023 - 21:31 | All, Japan Japan's parliament on Wednesday enacted laws to establish a new institution modeled after the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to better respond to health crises after the government was criticized for its handling of the coronavirus outbreak. The center, expected to commence operations in fiscal 2025 at the earliest, will be a part of Japan's new system for fighting the next pandemic along with other new organizations to be set up -- a centralized disease response headquarters overseen by the Cabinet Secretariat and an infectious disease countermeasures department at the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. The Japanese version of the CDC will combine the disease analysis, research and monitoring functions currently handled by the National Institute of Infectious Diseases with the treatment, clinical research and international cooperation overseen by the National Center for Global Health and Medicine. By bringing together the separate entities, the new institution designed to respond comprehensively at each stage, from collecting data to healthcare provision. It will also report scientific expert opinion to the prime minister and health minister and provide views to the government's countermeasures department. The coronavirus pandemic highlighted the need for speedier decision-making, smooth coordination between government entities and municipal administrations and better risk communication. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida first announced the CDC-inspired organization in June last year. It came after a government expert panel reviewing Japan's COVID-19 response said it lacked preparedness in normal times for an infectious disease emergency, was slow to boost testing capacity and that its medical system was stretched at times. The new system must be introduced within three years of the new law's promulgation. But how the new body will be structured and who will work in it is to be determined at a later date. A health ministry official said the government will "refine the details to ensure it can fulfill its expected duties." Infosys Limited (NYSE:INFY Get Rating) declared a semi-annual dividend on Wednesday, May 31st, Wall Street Journal reports. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 2nd will be given a dividend of 0.2134 per share by the technology company on Monday, July 3rd. This represents a dividend yield of 1.5%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 1st. This is an increase from Infosyss previous semi-annual dividend of $0.17. Infosys has a payout ratio of 45.5% indicating that its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Research analysts expect Infosys to earn $0.80 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $0.40 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 50.0%. Get Infosys alerts: Infosys Trading Up 0.4 % Shares of NYSE INFY traded up $0.06 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $15.96. 9,040,652 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 9,739,707. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $15.88 and its 200 day simple moving average is $17.65. The stock has a market cap of $66.02 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.41, a PEG ratio of 2.08 and a beta of 0.99. Infosys has a 12-month low of $14.71 and a 12-month high of $20.60. Institutional Inflows and Outflows Infosys ( NYSE:INFY Get Rating ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, April 13th. The technology company reported $0.18 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.19 by ($0.01). Infosys had a net margin of 16.37% and a return on equity of 31.78%. The business had revenue of $4.55 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.73 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $0.18 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts expect that Infosys will post 0.76 EPS for the current year. Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. boosted its position in Infosys by 4.1% during the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 16,735 shares of the technology companys stock worth $417,000 after purchasing an additional 652 shares in the last quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. boosted its position in Infosys by 39.8% during the first quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 157,264 shares of the technology companys stock worth $3,914,000 after purchasing an additional 44,768 shares in the last quarter. Blair William & Co. IL purchased a new stake in Infosys during the first quarter worth $465,000. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board boosted its position in Infosys by 108.3% during the first quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 1,017,100 shares of the technology companys stock worth $25,315,000 after purchasing an additional 528,900 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Allianz Asset Management GmbH boosted its position in Infosys by 1.6% during the first quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 1,051,193 shares of the technology companys stock worth $26,164,000 after purchasing an additional 16,102 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 12.68% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several brokerages have recently weighed in on INFY. Nomura cut Infosys from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, April 13th. BMO Capital Markets lowered their target price on Infosys from $21.00 to $18.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a report on Friday, April 14th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Infosys in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Citigroup lowered shares of Infosys from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. initiated coverage on shares of Infosys in a research report on Tuesday, May 23rd. They set an underweight rating and a $14.00 price target on the stock. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have assigned a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $18.57. Infosys Company Profile (Get Rating) Infosys Ltd. is a digital services and consulting company, which engages in the provision of end-to-end business solutions. It operates through the following segments: Financial Services, Retail, Communication, Energy, Utilities, Resources, and Services, Manufacturing, Hi-Tech, Life Sciences, and All Other. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Infosys Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Infosys and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Ramsay Health Care Limited (OTCMKTS:RMYHY Get Rating) was the target of a significant decline in short interest during the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 600 shares, a decline of 14.3% from the April 30th total of 700 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 2,900 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.2 days. Analyst Ratings Changes Separately, The Goldman Sachs Group lowered shares of Ramsay Health Care from a neutral rating to a sell rating in a report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Get Ramsay Health Care alerts: Ramsay Health Care Price Performance Shares of RMYHY opened at $9.47 on Wednesday. Ramsay Health Care has a 1-year low of $8.55 and a 1-year high of $14.29. The companys fifty day moving average price is $10.48 and its 200-day moving average price is $10.81. About Ramsay Health Care Ramsay Health Care Ltd. is in the provision of healthcare services and the operation of hospitals and day surgery facilities. It operates through the following segments : Asia Pacific, UK, France and Nordics. The company was founded by Paul Joseph Ramsay in 1964 and is headquartered in Sydney, Australia. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Ramsay Health Care Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Ramsay Health Care and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Coursera, Inc. (NYSE:COUR Get Rating) was the target of a significant increase in short interest in May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 5,180,000 shares, an increase of 6.6% from the April 30th total of 4,860,000 shares. Approximately 4.8% of the companys stock are sold short. Based on an average trading volume of 1,130,000 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 4.6 days. Coursera Stock Performance Shares of COUR traded up $0.05 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting $12.50. 1,163,551 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,022,134. Coursera has a 12-month low of $9.81 and a 12-month high of $17.66. The company has a market cap of $1.88 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -10.72 and a beta of 1.79. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $11.30 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $12.49. Get Coursera alerts: Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, Director Andrew Y. Ng sold 50,000 shares of Coursera stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $10.84, for a total transaction of $542,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 7,380,398 shares of the companys stock, valued at $80,003,514.32. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, CAO Michele M. Meyers sold 7,438 shares of Coursera stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $10.88, for a total transaction of $80,925.44. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer now owns 259,291 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,821,086.08. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Andrew Y. Ng sold 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $10.84, for a total value of $542,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 7,380,398 shares of the companys stock, valued at $80,003,514.32. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 873,294 shares of company stock valued at $9,918,457. 16.30% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Trading of Coursera Analyst Ratings Changes Large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Baillie Gifford & Co. grew its holdings in Coursera by 3.5% in the 1st quarter. Baillie Gifford & Co. now owns 18,742,509 shares of the companys stock valued at $215,914,000 after buying an additional 635,813 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in Coursera in the 4th quarter valued at $137,598,000. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its holdings in Coursera by 2.7% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 9,235,391 shares of the companys stock valued at $99,557,000 after buying an additional 241,179 shares in the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. grew its holdings in Coursera by 0.6% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 6,893,427 shares of the companys stock valued at $79,412,000 after buying an additional 43,730 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Eventide Asset Management LLC grew its holdings in Coursera by 0.6% in the 3rd quarter. Eventide Asset Management LLC now owns 2,654,716 shares of the companys stock valued at $28,618,000 after buying an additional 15,623 shares in the last quarter. 62.31% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. A number of brokerages have issued reports on COUR. Citigroup decreased their price target on Coursera from $40.00 to $30.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, February 15th. Morgan Stanley decreased their price target on Coursera from $18.00 to $17.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Friday, March 31st. Needham & Company LLC reissued a buy rating and issued a $19.00 price target on shares of Coursera in a report on Friday, March 10th. KeyCorp decreased their price target on Coursera from $19.00 to $17.00 in a report on Friday, April 28th. Finally, Telsey Advisory Group restated an outperform rating and issued a $20.00 price objective on shares of Coursera in a research report on Friday, March 10th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $17.08. About Coursera (Get Rating) Coursera, Inc operates an online educational content platform that connects learners, educators, organizations, and institutions. It offers online courses that include data science, business, computer science, information technology, health, social sciences, logic, project management, and digital marketing services; campus student plans; degree courses; and certification education. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Coursera Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Coursera and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. MPC Container Ships ASA (OTCMKTS:MPZZF Get Rating) was the recipient of a significant increase in short interest in the month of May. As of May 15th, there was short interest totalling 259,700 shares, an increase of 27.9% from the April 30th total of 203,000 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 5,100 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 50.9 days. MPC Container Ships ASA Stock Performance Shares of MPZZF remained flat at $1.88 during midday trading on Tuesday. The company has a fifty day moving average of $1.65 and a 200 day moving average of $1.69. MPC Container Ships ASA has a 12-month low of $1.25 and a 12-month high of $2.92. Get MPC Container Ships ASA alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Separately, DNB Markets lowered shares of MPC Container Ships ASA from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, February 7th. About MPC Container Ships ASA MPC Container Ships ASA engages in the provision of container tonnage, with a focus on small to mid-size containerships. It is involved in the operation of a portfolio of container ships serving intra-regional trade lanes on fixed-rate charters. The company was founded on January 9, 2017 and is headquartered in Oslo, Norway. See Also Receive News & Ratings for MPC Container Ships ASA Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for MPC Container Ships ASA and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. SM Energy (NYSE:SM Get Rating) has received a consensus rating of Hold from the thirteen analysts that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat.com reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, seven have issued a hold recommendation and four have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average 1 year target price among brokerages that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $40.64. SM has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Royal Bank of Canada restated a sector perform rating and issued a $50.00 price objective on shares of SM Energy in a report on Friday, March 24th. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of SM Energy in a report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Mizuho cut their price target on shares of SM Energy from $37.00 to $33.00 in a research note on Friday, May 19th. Raymond James lifted their price target on shares of SM Energy from $38.00 to $41.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Finally, TD Cowen lowered shares of SM Energy from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and set a $35.00 price target on the stock. in a research note on Wednesday, March 1st. Get SM Energy alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other SM Energy news, CEO Herbert S. Vogel acquired 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, March 6th. The stock was bought at an average cost of $31.35 per share, for a total transaction of $31,350.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the chief executive officer now directly owns 402,063 shares in the company, valued at $12,604,675.05. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Over the last quarter, insiders purchased 3,000 shares of company stock valued at $86,460. Insiders own 1.60% of the companys stock. Institutional Trading of SM Energy SM Energy Stock Performance A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Verdence Capital Advisors LLC increased its stake in SM Energy by 2.5% during the 3rd quarter. Verdence Capital Advisors LLC now owns 10,948 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $412,000 after buying an additional 270 shares during the period. Eaton Vance Management increased its stake in SM Energy by 3.8% during the 1st quarter. Eaton Vance Management now owns 8,361 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $326,000 after buying an additional 309 shares during the period. Metropolitan Life Insurance Co NY boosted its position in shares of SM Energy by 4.5% during the 4th quarter. Metropolitan Life Insurance Co NY now owns 7,630 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $266,000 after purchasing an additional 326 shares in the last quarter. United Services Automobile Association boosted its position in shares of SM Energy by 3.0% during the 3rd quarter. United Services Automobile Association now owns 13,382 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $503,000 after purchasing an additional 388 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Byrne Asset Management LLC boosted its position in shares of SM Energy by 30.0% during the 4th quarter. Byrne Asset Management LLC now owns 1,690 shares of the energy companys stock valued at $59,000 after purchasing an additional 390 shares in the last quarter. 89.45% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Shares of SM stock opened at $26.59 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.34, a current ratio of 1.34 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49. SM Energy has a 52 week low of $24.66 and a 52 week high of $54.97. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.20 billion, a PE ratio of 2.61 and a beta of 4.40. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $27.77 and a two-hundred day moving average of $31.88. SM Energy (NYSE:SM Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, April 28th. The energy company reported $1.33 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.19 by $0.14. SM Energy had a net margin of 41.07% and a return on equity of 28.22%. The company had revenue of $573.51 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $559.37 million. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.98 EPS. The firms revenue was down 33.3% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts predict that SM Energy will post 5.44 EPS for the current fiscal year. SM Energy Announces Dividend The company also recently disclosed a semi-annual dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 5th. Stockholders of record on Friday, April 21st were given a $0.15 dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 1.1%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, April 20th. SM Energys dividend payout ratio is presently 5.89%. About SM Energy (Get Rating) SM Energy Co is an independent energy company, which engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of oil, gas, and natural gas liquids. The company was founded in 1908 and is headquartered in Denver, CO. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for SM Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for SM Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Trane Technologies plc (NYSE:TT Get Rating) declared a quarterly dividend on Thursday, April 6th, Zacks reports. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 2nd will be paid a dividend of 0.75 per share on Friday, June 30th. This represents a $3.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.80%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 1st. Trane Technologies has a dividend payout ratio of 32.4% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities research analysts expect Trane Technologies to earn $9.13 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $3.00 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 32.9%. Get Trane Technologies alerts: Trane Technologies Trading Down 0.1 % Shares of Trane Technologies stock opened at $166.59 on Wednesday. Trane Technologies has a 1 year low of $120.64 and a 1 year high of $196.22. The firm has a market cap of $37.99 billion, a PE ratio of 21.58, a P/E/G ratio of 1.79 and a beta of 0.99. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $176.59 and a 200-day moving average price of $177.83. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74, a current ratio of 1.26 and a quick ratio of 0.77. Analysts Set New Price Targets Trane Technologies ( NYSE:TT Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 3rd. The company reported $1.41 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.33 by $0.08. Trane Technologies had a return on equity of 30.11% and a net margin of 11.06%. The company had revenue of $3.67 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.64 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.12 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 9.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts anticipate that Trane Technologies will post 8.43 EPS for the current year. A number of equities analysts have commented on the company. 92 Resources reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of Trane Technologies in a research note on Thursday, May 4th. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price target on Trane Technologies from $176.00 to $163.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. Stephens boosted their price target on Trane Technologies from $170.00 to $185.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, February 6th. Mizuho upped their price objective on Trane Technologies from $175.00 to $185.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. Finally, Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on Trane Technologies from $193.00 to $210.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Friday, February 3rd. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Trane Technologies has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $182.58. Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, SVP Evan M. Turtz sold 2,095 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, March 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $190.83, for a total transaction of $399,788.85. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 19,601 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,740,458.83. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other Trane Technologies news, EVP Paul A. Camuti sold 7,950 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $190.78, for a total value of $1,516,701.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 89,021 shares in the company, valued at approximately $16,983,426.38. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, SVP Evan M. Turtz sold 2,095 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $190.83, for a total transaction of $399,788.85. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 19,601 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,740,458.83. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.39% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Trading of Trane Technologies Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in TT. Putnam Investments LLC acquired a new position in shares of Trane Technologies during the 1st quarter worth $395,000. Centaurus Financial Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Trane Technologies during the 1st quarter worth $119,000. B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. grew its stake in Trane Technologies by 8.4% in the 1st quarter. B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 3,685 shares of the companys stock valued at $678,000 after buying an additional 287 shares during the last quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC grew its stake in Trane Technologies by 34.6% in the 1st quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC now owns 8,836 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,626,000 after buying an additional 2,269 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. grew its stake in Trane Technologies by 2.8% in the 1st quarter. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. now owns 17,528 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,224,000 after buying an additional 470 shares during the last quarter. 81.47% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Trane Technologies Company Profile (Get Rating) Trane Technologies Plc engages in providing solutions to buildings, homes, and transportation. It operates through the following business segments: Americas, EMEA, and Asia Pacific. The Americas segment encompasses commercial heating and cooling systems, building controls, and energy services and solutions, residential heating and cooling, and transport refrigeration systems, and solutions in North America and Latin America regions. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Trane Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Trane Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. KYODO NEWS - May 31, 2023 - 13:54 | World, All Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will be tried in a military court for his alleged role in riots that occurred in the wake of his arrest earlier this month, the country's interior minister said. Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said in a TV interview with Dawn News on Tuesday that Khan personally planned violence targeting military installations, adding he believes the case will be heard in a military court. The violent protests broke out on May 9 after Khan's arrest at the Islamabad High Court, where he went to attend a hearing in separate graft cases. Khan's supporters protested his arrest and attacked military installations in several cities. Following the unrest, the Pakistan Army has decided that rioters will be tried under military laws, according to the government. Human Rights Watch has said that at least 4,000 people, including members of the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party led by Khan, have been detained for their role in the protests. Related coverage: Pakistan's Supreme Court says ex-prime minister's arrest illegal Geode Capital Management LLC increased its position in shares of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH Get Rating) by 1.5% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 16,858,436 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock after acquiring an additional 247,997 shares during the quarter. UnitedHealth Group makes up about 1.3% of Geode Capital Management LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 6th biggest holding. Geode Capital Management LLC owned approximately 1.80% of UnitedHealth Group worth $8,921,651,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of UNH. O Dell Group LLC lifted its holdings in UnitedHealth Group by 76.9% in the third quarter. O Dell Group LLC now owns 69 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $35,000 after acquiring an additional 30 shares during the period. Legend Financial Advisors Inc. purchased a new stake in UnitedHealth Group in the 3rd quarter valued at about $37,000. Investors Research Corp grew its holdings in UnitedHealth Group by 51.1% in the 4th quarter. Investors Research Corp now owns 71 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $38,000 after buying an additional 24 shares during the period. Bourgeon Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in UnitedHealth Group by 192.3% in the 4th quarter. Bourgeon Capital Management LLC now owns 76 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $40,000 after buying an additional 50 shares during the period. Finally, WFA of San Diego LLC acquired a new position in shares of UnitedHealth Group in the 4th quarter valued at about $42,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 86.31% of the companys stock. Get UnitedHealth Group alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities analysts recently commented on the company. TD Cowen reduced their price target on UnitedHealth Group from $596.00 to $562.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, April 17th. Oppenheimer reissued an outperform rating and set a $610.00 price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a research report on Monday, April 17th. Raymond James reissued a strong-buy rating and set a $630.00 price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a research report on Friday, April 14th. Piper Sandler initiated coverage on UnitedHealth Group in a report on Thursday, May 25th. They set an overweight rating and a $580.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Stephens restated an overweight rating and set a $605.00 price objective on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a report on Tuesday, February 28th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of $599.06. UnitedHealth Group Stock Up 0.7 % UnitedHealth Group stock traded up $3.24 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $483.09. The company had a trading volume of 1,549,148 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,304,365. The firms fifty day moving average is $490.01 and its 200-day moving average is $497.93. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 0.81 and a quick ratio of 0.81. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated has a fifty-two week low of $449.70 and a fifty-two week high of $558.10. The firm has a market capitalization of $449.77 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.99, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.40 and a beta of 0.68. UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH Get Rating) last announced its earnings results on Friday, April 14th. The healthcare conglomerate reported $6.26 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $6.24 by $0.02. The firm 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%. The companys revenue was up 14.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $5.49 earnings per share. On average, research analysts forecast that UnitedHealth Group Incorporated will post 24.97 earnings per share for the current year. Insider Buying and Selling In other UnitedHealth Group news, EVP Erin Mcsweeney sold 1,008 shares of UnitedHealth Group 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 sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 10,359 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,019,764.22. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other UnitedHealth Group news, EVP Erin Mcsweeney sold 1,008 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, April 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $484.58, for a total transaction of $488,456.64. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 10,359 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,019,764.22. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO Andrew Witty sold 6,160 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, April 27th. The shares were 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 of the companys stock, valued at $42,199,084.36. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 8,852 shares of company stock valued at $4,313,962. 0.35% of the stock is owned by company insiders. 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. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for UnitedHealth Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UnitedHealth Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Co lifted its holdings in AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV Get Rating) by 15.5% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 308,714 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 41,408 shares during the quarter. AbbVie makes up approximately 0.7% of Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Cos holdings, making the stock its 29th largest holding. Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Cos holdings in AbbVie were worth $49,891,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the business. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in AbbVie by 1.6% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 156,022,414 shares of the companys stock worth $20,939,769,000 after purchasing an additional 2,442,663 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp raised its position in AbbVie by 0.5% in the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 77,486,317 shares of the companys stock worth $10,399,439,000 after purchasing an additional 366,695 shares during the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its position in AbbVie by 2.0% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 8,904,988 shares of the companys stock worth $1,443,588,000 after purchasing an additional 176,026 shares during the last quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System raised its position in shares of AbbVie by 6.1% during the 4th quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System now owns 6,730,331 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,087,689,000 after acquiring an additional 389,877 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Boston Partners raised its position in shares of AbbVie by 2.9% during the 3rd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 6,150,074 shares of the companys stock valued at $827,315,000 after acquiring an additional 174,102 shares during the last quarter. 67.71% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get AbbVie alerts: AbbVie Stock Up 1.5 % Shares of AbbVie stock traded up $2.07 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $138.51. 3,080,061 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 5,862,919. AbbVie Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $134.09 and a fifty-two week high of $168.11. The stock has a market cap of $244.37 billion, a P/E ratio of 32.33, a P/E/G ratio of 2.51 and a beta of 0.58. The company has a 50 day moving average of $153.07 and a two-hundred day moving average of $154.69. The company has a current ratio of 0.96, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.46. Insider Activity at AbbVie AbbVie ( NYSE:ABBV Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The company reported $2.46 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.44 by $0.02. AbbVie had a net margin of 13.37% and a return on equity of 153.92%. The business had revenue of $12.23 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $12.23 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $3.16 EPS. AbbVies revenue was down 9.7% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that AbbVie Inc. will post 10.97 EPS for the current fiscal year. In other AbbVie news, EVP Jeffrey Ryan Stewart sold 53,125 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $152.28, for a total transaction of $8,089,875.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 60,941 shares in the company, valued at $9,280,095.48. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, EVP Perry C. Siatis sold 3,520 shares of AbbVie stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $160.00, for a total value of $563,200.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 10,377 shares in the company, valued at $1,660,320. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, EVP Jeffrey Ryan Stewart sold 53,125 shares of AbbVie stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $152.28, for a total transaction of $8,089,875.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 60,941 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,280,095.48. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 85,276 shares of company stock worth $13,277,658. Insiders own 0.26% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several brokerages have commented on ABBV. SVB Securities upgraded shares of AbbVie from an underperform rating to a market perform rating and upped their target price for the company from $135.00 to $153.00 in a research report on Friday, February 10th. Guggenheim dropped their target price on shares of AbbVie from $172.00 to $171.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of AbbVie in a research report on Thursday, May 18th. They issued a strong-buy rating for the company. Atlantic Securities lowered their price objective on shares of AbbVie from $157.00 to $154.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Friday, February 10th. Finally, Argus cut shares of AbbVie from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, six have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $163.40. About AbbVie (Get Rating) AbbVie, Inc is a research-based biopharmaceutical company, which engages in the development and sale of pharmaceutical products. It focuses on treating conditions such as chronic autoimmune diseases in rheumatology, gastroenterology, and dermatology, oncology, including blood cancers, virology, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), neurological disorders, such as Parkinsons, metabolic, comprising thyroid disease and complications associated with cystic fibrosis, pain associated with endometriosis, and other serious health conditions. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ABBV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV Get Rating). Receive News & Ratings for AbbVie Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AbbVie and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S boosted its holdings in Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE:YUM Get Rating) by 15,014.0% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 162,022 shares of the restaurant operators stock after acquiring an additional 160,950 shares during the quarter. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S owned about 0.06% of Yum! Brands worth $20,752,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. BlackRock Inc. increased its stake in Yum! Brands by 6.6% in the 3rd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 20,766,507 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $2,208,310,000 after purchasing an additional 1,278,710 shares in the last quarter. Capital World Investors grew its stake in Yum! Brands by 19.6% during the 1st quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 5,507,237 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $652,773,000 after acquiring an additional 901,181 shares in the last quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. grew its stake in Yum! Brands by 66.7% during the 4th quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. now owns 876,193 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $112,223,000 after acquiring an additional 350,434 shares in the last quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC grew its stake in Yum! Brands by 119.7% during the 1st quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 617,400 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $73,180,000 after acquiring an additional 336,400 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Abeille Asset Management SA purchased a new position in Yum! Brands during the 4th quarter valued at about $35,777,000. 77.54% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Yum! Brands alerts: Yum! Brands Price Performance Shares of NYSE YUM traded down $0.68 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $127.11. The stock had a trading volume of 446,436 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,519,697. The businesss fifty day moving average is $134.54 and its two-hundred day moving average is $130.55. The company has a market cap of $35.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.07, a PEG ratio of 2.08 and a beta of 1.00. Yum! Brands, Inc. has a twelve month low of $103.96 and a twelve month high of $143.24. Yum! Brands Announces Dividend Yum! Brands ( NYSE:YUM Get Rating ) last issued its 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). Yum! Brands had a net margin of 17.67% and a negative return on equity of 14.97%. The firm had revenue of $1.65 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.62 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.05 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 6.3% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts forecast that Yum! Brands, Inc. will post 5.05 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 9th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, May 30th will be given a $0.605 dividend. This represents a $2.42 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.90%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, May 26th. Yum! Brandss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 56.94%. Insider Buying and Selling at Yum! Brands In other Yum! Brands news, CEO David W. Gibbs sold 3,734 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, March 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $128.43, for a total value of $479,557.62. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 57,325 shares in the company, valued at $7,362,249.75. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other news, CEO David W. Gibbs sold 3,734 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, March 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $128.43, for a total transaction of $479,557.62. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 57,325 shares in the company, valued at $7,362,249.75. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Scott Catlett sold 1,150 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, April 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $135.00, for a total value of $155,250.00. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 12,102 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,633,770. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 30,348 shares of company stock worth $4,068,713 over the last three months. Company insiders own 0.31% of the companys stock. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several equities analysts have weighed in on YUM shares. Cowen reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $155.00 target price on shares of Yum! Brands in a research note on Wednesday, February 8th. Guggenheim lowered their price target on Yum! Brands from $147.00 to $145.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, March 8th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on Yum! Brands from $155.00 to $157.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, April 17th. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price target on Yum! Brands from $137.00 to $142.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Thursday, February 9th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft boosted their target price on Yum! Brands from $137.00 to $143.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, February 13th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $147.11. About Yum! Brands (Get Rating) 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. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Yum! Brands Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Yum! Brands and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. A number of enterprises in south China's Guangdong Province have taken the lead in offering flexible work arrangements for women employees with children, allowing them to earn while taking care of their kids. The province has recently drafted a document on providing more flexible job opportunities for working-age women who have children under 12, in an attempt to help them strike a balance between work and caring for children. The document made it clear that women working under this model are not allowed to do heavy manual labor or hazardous work. A woman worker sews clothes at a clothing factory in Zhongshan City, south China's Guangdong Province. [People's Daily/Hong Qiuting] In Foshan City, over 250 enterprises in different sectors, such as e-commerce, trade, manufacturing and household services, have adopted this practice, benefiting over 3,200 working mothers. 36-year-old Wu Juanli from northwest China's Shaanxi Province runs a store with her husband in Foshan. Since the beginning of this year, the couple has faced mounting financial pressure due to poor business, which prompted Wu to find a job. She learnt that Foshan Hongyuan E-commerce Co., Ltd. offered flexible work arrangements to mothers, and, after passing the interview and training courses, she started working as a customer service representative this May, working four hours a day. Wu works in the morning, then manages her store and picks up her child from school in the afternoon. "This really helps me a lot," said Wu with gratitude. In April 2023, Foshan Hongyuan E-commerce Co., Ltd. launched flexible work schedules in customer service and sales in livestreaming sessions for working mothers, who must work for four and two consecutive hours respectively per day. The company mainly sells bathroom products, and its target consumers are mostly people who have started families. The employees are about the same age as their potential clients, and can therefore better understand consumers' needs, said Zhang Mei, director of the livestream selling business of the company. Zhang added that most mothers working under this model show a greater sense of belonging and loyalty. Most of them cherish this work opportunity and have a more positive work attitude. "Launching this flexible model for mothers is a good choice for the company's long-term development," said Zhang. Today, there are over 30 employees working under this model, and about five of them perform better than some full-time workers, and are expected to work full-time in the future. Similarly, Zou Yuefeng based in Qingyuan City used to take care of her two children and elderly family members at home, before she was offered a job by TIME Aluminum. The 45-year-old now carries out tasks related to packaging. From the perspective of Lei Xiaohong, the company's deputy general manager, this approach does not increase the burden for enterprises, but brings win-win results. "Quite a few employers see this practice as some kind of sacrifice, and worry that it means higher costs for the company. Our company weighed up its pros and cons before implementing this measure," said Lei. "But so far, those who work under this model have shown a greater sense of belonging and loyalty, and even have higher work efficiency. So at the end of the day, it is the company that benefits from it," Lei added, who also revealed that the company will continue to offer more posts under this model in the future. Qingyuan City has ramped up efforts to expand this working model. "Since the inception of this new model, the Women's Federation of Yuantan Township in the city has had extensive contact with women who had difficulty finding jobs. We also visited enterprises to learn about their demands. Then with the help of some favorable policies, we established a service platform for free to allow interaction between both sides," said Zeng Lijuan, vice president of the federation. Zeng went on to explain that a number of enterprises and mothers have contacted her for more details. Furthermore, a WeChat mini program named "Posts for Mothers of Qingyuan" went online on May 15. More than 110 enterprises and individual businesses in sectors including agriculture, textile, garment industry, manufacturing, housekeeping, e-commerce livestreaming, tourism, hotel and handicraft published 598 job openings on it. Zeng is confident that the WeChat mini program will attract more enterprises and jobseekers. In Zhongshan City, over 160 companies have joined this trend, offering more than 4,000 positions, and the number is still expanding. In an audio and sound equipment factory in Gangkou Township, there are 236 such workers, accounting for about one third of the total staff on the production line. Huang Chunhua, 29, for example, mainly attaches tags to products at the factory, earning a monthly income of about 4,000 yuan (about $565.61). Xie Xiaoling, who also works under this model in Zhongshan, said, "I'm very satisfied with my job, as it allows me to realize my self-worth, gain professional skills, and have enough time to take care of my children." Different parts of the country have also taken similar steps. Some pharmaceutical factories in Xiajiang County, east China's Jiangxi Province inaugurated a production line specifically for women employees with children. Clothing enterprises in Chongren County in Jiangxi set up sewing workshops to provide job opportunities for working mothers. To better conform to the trend of flexible work, more employment services, including employment guidance and recommendation, should be provided, suggested Luo Mingzhong, a professor at the College of Economics and Management of South China Agricultural University in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong. (Source: People's Daily Online) Trainees learn to make Shaxian snacks at a training center in Sanming City, east China's Fujian Province, Nov. 23, 2020. [Xinhua/Jiang Kehong] BEIJING, May 30 (Xinhua) Taking a stroll in a Chinese city, big or small, one is likely to encounter restaurants under a popular red Pac-Man-like logo Shaxian Delicacies, a sign indicating palatable foods for reasonable prices. Originating in a rural county in Sanming, Fujian Province, Shaxian food has evolved from a local street delicacy to a nationwide sensation, with franchises spread across the country. Yu Guangqing was among the pioneering locals who ventured into taking the local snacks beyond their region between the late 1980s and early 1990s. According to him, the remarkable rise of this unique food industry has received the support and encouragement of President Xi Jinping during his tenure as a provincial leader of Fujian. From 1996 to 2002, Xi made 11 fact-finding trips to Sanming. During that time, the demand for affordable yet flavorful fast food surged due to the rapid increase in the migrant worker population in cities. Shaxian eateries emerged on the streets of major cities, offering dishes like peanut butter noodles, wontons, fried rice noodles, and meat soup. In 1999, Xi visited Shaxian and recognized the niche market that Shaxian delicacies had captured. To maximize their business potential, Xi emphasized the importance of conducting extensive market research and giving increased attention to training of relevant personnel. The following year, he visited Shaxian again. Conversing with locals, Xi said Shaxian must turn its distinctive food industry into a new economic growth engine. Workers produce frozen dumplings at Shaxian Snacks Industrial Park in Sanming City, east China's Fujian Province, Nov. 18, 2020. [Xinhua/Jiang Kehong] "His words inspired us," recalled Lin Yingsong, who soon joined his townsfolk to run Shaxian eateries outside their home province. In 2001, Lin traveled to the neighboring Zhejiang Province and opened a Shaxian eatery with his wife. The business was brisk. The family opened more restaurants and expanded to more provinces. Like Lin, many locals traveled afar to populate Shaxian franchises throughout the country and even abroad. A trade guild was also founded to provide training and technique guidance for relevant businesses. The development of the food industry also spurred the growth of the breeding industry and tourism. These all helped Shaxian's rural per capita annual income increase by nearly eight times in about a quarter of a century. Xi had helped Shaxian by directing the right path to make the industry bigger and stronger, Yu recalled. In 2021, President Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, revisited Shaxian during his Fujian inspection tour. Xi visited a food street serving various Shaxian snacks and talked with people in the snack industry. "I came here to see how the snack industry has developed and its prospects," Xi told them. Highlighting the role that local snacks and similar industries can play in driving rural development, Xi asked people in the industry to innovate and improve their businesses. And it was not just Shaxian delicacies. A bowl of river snail rice noodle is served at a restaurant in Liuzhou, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Jan. 2, 2020. Combining traditional food materials of the Han people with Miao and Dong ethnic groups, river snail rice noodles, or "Luosifen" in Chinese, is a dish of rice noodles boiled with pickled bamboo shoots, dried turnip, fresh vegetables and peanuts in spiced river snail soup. [Xinhua/Huang Xiaobang] In 2021, while inspecting south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Xi made a similar choice to visit a food-processing zone of Luosifen, an iconic dish of the region and known for its pungent smell. There, he learned about the industry's role in promoting employment and increasing local farmers' income. Noting that developing signature industries is a practical measure to boost the real economy, Xi called for more support for private enterprises to help them grow. The snack industry is just a part of China's rural industries, which range from planting and breeding to agricultural product processing and tourism. Over the years, Xi has attached great importance to developing industries that fit local conditions in rural revitalization. "The revitalization of industries is the top priority of rural revitalization," he said. On his trip to Guangdong Province in April, he visited a lychee orchard in a village where he learned about the technicians' income and the challenges the lychee industry faces, particularly fresh-keeping techniques. "The prospects for developing signature local industries are very promising," he said. (Source: Xinhua) KYODO NEWS - May 31, 2023 - 22:41 | All, Japan, Travel/Tourism The total number of overnight stays by foreigners at hotels and other accommodation facilities in Japan topped 10 million in April for the first time since January 2020, government data showed Wednesday, buoyed by a weaker yen and increased international flights. The figure rose 19.5-fold from a year before to 10.38 million, equivalent to 92.0 percent of the total in April 2019 before the coronavirus outbreak, according to the preliminary data released by the Japan Tourism Agency. Even in 2019, when a record-high number of foreigners visited the country, the monthly total of guest nights by foreigners eclipsed the 10 million mark only three times. As for Japanese guests, the April figure climbed to 37.24 million, up 12.5 percent from a year earlier but down 5.6 percent from the pre-pandemic year of 2019, the data showed. The cumulative total of overnight stays by foreign and Japanese guests at hotels and inns in April stood at 47.63 million, up 41.6 percent from a year earlier but down 6.1 percent from April 2019. The tourism industry is regaining ground since the country lifted its pandemic-prompted ban on individual, non-prearranged trips last October. The figure is likely to increase more in the coming months as Japan lifted its COVID-19 border controls for all arrivals on April 29, meaning entrants are no longer required to present certification of at least three coronavirus vaccinations or a negative coronavirus test taken within 72 hours of departure. The number of foreign entries in April was more than 1.9 million, up nearly 14-fold from a year before, marking the highest number of foreign visitors since February 2020, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. Besides a weaker yen, the organization said that Japan's cherry blossom season, an increase and resumption of flights in East Asia and the start of the holiday season in various parts of the world bolstered the number of visitors to the country that month. 49 people have been killed at Dollar General stores since 2014. Workers are protesting for safer conditions Air New Zealand is now required by law to weigh passengers who board flights from Auckland International Airport in June as part of a regulatory oversight. KYODO NEWS - May 31, 2023 - 10:33 | All, World The Ukrainian ambassador to Britain has expressed hope that an envisaged peace summit in July will expand Kyiv's international engagement and encourage a review of existing global peacekeeping mechanisms, such as the United Nations. Vadym Prystaiko, who has held various positions including foreign minister in Volodymyr Zelenskyy's government, spoke to Kyodo News during a recent interview following the Group of Seven industrialized nations' summit in Hiroshima, where plans for Zelenskyy's proposed peace summit were discussed. Zelenskyy has called for a Peace Formula summit in July that would focus on issues such as peace-building in Ukraine at a time marking five hundred days since Russia's invasion began in February 2022. Denmark has offered to host the summit in Copenhagen, according to the ambassador. Prystaiko said the current crisis in Ukraine should encourage not just economically powerful nations like the G-7 members but the whole international community to "revisit existing mechanisms" that are aimed at preventing conflicts and building peace. In particular, he cited Russia's status as one of the five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council as a pressing issue. "We cannot rely on the decision of one of the P5 nations, especially when one of them is actually the perpetrator," he said. According to Prystaiko, widening participation in the envisioned peace summit to include African and Latin American nations is especially important in raising awareness of "the idea of humankind over national differences." Recent visits by Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba to African and Latin American nations have established the basis for their participation in the peace summit, he said. Among the G-7 nations sending arms to Ukraine, Prystaiko said France has "already committed" to providing SCALP cruise missiles, the same model as the Storm Shadow system recently provided by Britain. Prystaiko said Britain's support since the very beginning of the war has been crucial. Britain was the first nation to send anti-tank and anti-air missiles to Ukraine after the invasion, paving the way for allies like the United States and European Union members to provide military training and equipment. With Germany also considering sending these weapons to Ukraine, Prystaiko said the plans would secure hundreds of long-range missiles capable of reaching territory occupied by Russia. On the possibility of Japan exporting lethal weapons to Ukraine, the envoy voiced hope that Tokyo will discuss the issue more, citing Norway as a nation initially reluctant to export arms which has now provided them. Japan's exports of weapons and defense equipment are strictly limited under the war-renouncing Constitution. In the meantime, Prystaiko said the provision of funds, medical equipment and technology to help Ukraine withstand the war is how Japan can offer practical support. "If we manage to push the aggressor back, all other aggressors in the world, and those close to Japan, will get the message. This is the right time for Japan to invest in its future defense and security," Prystaiko said. Related coverage: Ukraine's Zelenskyy hails G-7 participation a diplomatic success FRANKFORT, KY The Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission announced Wednesday plans to pursue new therapeutic treatment options for Kentuckians affected by opioid use disorder. The commission says their proposal includes investigating new treatments to "reverse the chemical effects of opioid addiction," including withdrawal symptoms. They say they will collaborate with the community and private organizations to study new treatment models and seek clinical validation for what they call the "next generation of opioid treatment." Chairman and Executive Director of the KYOAAC Bryan Hubbard said in a statement included in the release that Kentucky must overcome the opioid epidemic "by all means necessary." As we begin the next phase in our fight against this crisis, we must explore any treatment option that demonstrates breakthrough therapeutic potential. Our goal is to investigate the creation of a new standard for treating opioid dependence, so we can finally end this cycle of pain in the Commonwealth," he explained. According to the release, the number of opioid deaths in Kentucky decreased by about five percent from 2022, but they're still up 60 percent from 2019. In the past three years, 7,665 Kentuckians have reportedly died from overdose. Retired Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Martin Steele, who also serves as CEO of Reason for Hope and President of the Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition, said in a statement included in the release that Veterans were "on the front lines of the opioid and mental health crises." He says Wednesday's announcement is a step in the right direction to Kentucky becoming a leader in opioid use disorder treatment. According to the release, some existing addiction treatment models have modest success rates, but some models are subject to misuse. "Prevailing opioid use disorder treatment models carry an average cost of $139,200 per person per recovery attempt," the release explains. And from January 1, 2017 to May 26, 2023, pharmaceutical companies billed Kentucky Medicaid over $1 million for 101,883,355 doses of suboxone, which the commission calls one of the most common and presently effective medications for treating opioid use disorder. The United States Food and Drug Administration approved for the first time an over-the-counter Narcan nasal spray in March, in hopes of improving access to the opioid antidote. Before the spray was approved, Turning Point Recovery Community Center Director Brandon Fitch explained how important it was to have Narcan on hand. "If a person is experiencing an overdose due to fentanyl or an opioid use, it can bring them back, revive them and give them another chance to seek recovery," Fitch explained. Fentanyl in particular has been a driving force in overdose deaths in the state - and around the country. In February, Graves County Sheriff Jon Hayden told Local 6 the fentanyl crisis was becoming overwhelming, and McCracken County Sheriff Ryan Norman said fentanyl was extremely unpredictable. "Fentanyl in our area is the new methamphetamine, and its quickly overtaking what we are focusing our efforts on," Norman said. Hayden and Norman each said they believed putting an end to the opioid epidemic would take a community effort. That's one reason why Sheriff Norman said he's trying to help folks who are struggling with addiction through the McCracken County Badges of Hope program where deputies will help you find treatment if you call and request it. If you are struggling with addiction and need help, there are several other organizations you can get in touch with. To speak with a on-on-one specialist who can connect you with treatment via the SAMHSA National Helpline, call (833) 859-4357. To find information about available space in treatment programs or local providers, click here. To get in touch with the Behavioral Health Group, call (270) 443 - 0096 or click here and fill out the request form. To get in touch with Addiction Recovery Care, click here or call (888) 894-9474. To get in touch with Turning Point Addiction Recovery Community Center, click here or call (270) 442-7121. South Koreas military said North Korea fired a space projectile triggering emergency alerts in Seoul and Japan, weeks after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, pictured here in Pyongyang, on March 1, ordered officials to prepare to launch the countrys first military reconnaissance satellite. KYODO NEWS - May 31, 2023 - 16:26 | All, Japan Prime Minister Fumio Kishida instructed his ministers on Wednesday to increase Japan's annual child care budget by around 3.5 trillion yen ($25 billion) during a three-year target period to cope with the declining birth rate. The figure marks an increase from the around 3 trillion yen previously suggested for child care support from fiscal 2024. To secure part of the funding, the government will issue bridge bonds until it decides on an alternative, stable funding source by fiscal 2028, sources familiar with the discussions said. A draft plan detailing how the government aims to support child-rearing is expected to be unveiled as early as Thursday. Child policy is a focus area for the administration, with budget requests for the next fiscal year set to begin this summer. Economic revitalization minister Shigeyuki Goto told reporters after visiting Kishida at his office that he was instructed by the prime minister to boost funding to address child poverty and abuse, as well as to enhance support for children with disabilities and those in need of constant medical care. For the current fiscal year from April, around 4.8 trillion yen was allocated for a newly launched agency dealing with child and family-related issues. In the near future, the government aims to double its spending on child policy. Japan has one of the world's fastest-aging populations with newborns slipping below 800,000 last year for the first time since comparable data became available in 1899. As the country is already heavily indebted, finding a funding source is a challenge if it wants to increase spending. Bridge bonds are the same as deficit-covering bonds but the government specifies in advance the funding source to repay them. Under the draft plan, the government will carry out spending reforms by fiscal 2028 to prevent additional burdens borne by taxpayers, the sources said. It envisages the creation of a support fund scheme to which companies and other entities will contribute to boost child care assistance, the sources added. Among the options floated within the government are raising social insurance premiums and asking for more contributions by companies that are currently used to provide child allowances and other support. Japan's state budget has been expanding, with social security costs making up a large portion of the spending. In the face of growing security threats, Kishida has set a goal of boosting defense budget to a combined 43 trillion yen over the five years until fiscal 2027 and he has to decide when the government will raise taxes to cover part of the increased expenditure. The Labor governments plan for a referendum this year to entrench a new institution, a proposed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice, in the Australian Constitution, is being presented as the product of a grassroots demand for representation and action to address the appalling social conditions confronting most indigenous people. Everything You Need to Know About the Uluru Statement from the Heart. [Photo: UNSW Press] However, a book by two central advocates of the Labor governments Voice scheme reveals a very different story. Written by Megan Davis, an Aboriginal law professor who was instrumental in developing the Voice plan, and fellow constitutional law professor George Williams, the book shows that the proposal derived from a partnership with the former Liberal-National Coalition Prime Minister Tony Abbott in 2015. Their account shows that, far from being a movement from below, the Voice project originated as, and remains, a bid by members of an indigenous elite, including Davis and lawyer Noel Pearson, to head off anger and disaffection among ordinary indigenous people. Above all, the Voice plan seeks to prevent that discontent from linking up to the growing unrest throughout the working class as a whole, as workers and their families suffer the greatest cuts to their real wages and living conditions since World War II. As part of its wider brutal, and deeply unpopular, agenda of cutting social spending at the expense of the working class, Abbotts government of 2013-15 slashed more than $600 million from indigenous services, including health, legal and language support programs. It also sought to shut down remote communities by cutting off basic services to them. Abbott contemptuously accused residents of these communities, deprived of employment, proper housing and essential services, of making an unaffordable lifestyle choice that governments could not pay for. These cuts, launched via the 2014 austerity federal budget, particularly targeted working-class areas. As the WSWS investigated and reported: The Abbott government cut off funding for the Aboriginal Medical Service at Mount Druitt in western Sydney, cutting adrift its 11,000 active patients and 96 doctors, nurses and other staff. The over-worked medical service had tried to meet the many health needs of Australias largest single Aboriginal communitythe more than 32,000 indigenous people living throughout the working-class suburbs of western Sydney. In their volume, Everything You Need to Know About the Uluru Statement from the Heart, Davis and Williams explain that the Abbott governments decisions further discredited efforts, going back decades, to divert the discontent of most indigenous people and the wider opposition to their shocking social conditions into a Recognise campaign to insert some form of acknowledgement of the indigenous population into the Australian Constitution: The notion of constitutional recognition became repugnant to those communities and organisations whose funding was cut or depleted under this new policy. The outrage accelerated a growing backlash in the community against the well-funded Recognise organisation. This backlash became so significant that Davis, Pearson, Patrick Dodson (now a Labor Senator and the governments Special Envoy for Reconciliation) and Kirstie Parker, then the co-chair of the National Congress of Australias First Peoples, visited Abbott to request a new approach to constitutional recognition. Abbott agreed to convene a meeting with 39 selected indigenous figures and the then Labor opposition leader Bill Shorten at Kirribilli House, the prime ministers official Sydney harbourside residence, in July 2015. That gathering issued a statement, named the Kirribilli Statement, calling for a new type of recognition. The Kirribilli participants included Pearson, Professor Marcia Langton and Abbotts prime ministerial adviser and former Labor Party president Warren Mundine. These three had been prominent advocates for years of quarantining or cutting welfare payments to indigenous people. They also supported projects by mining conglomerates on indigenous land holdings as a supposed vehicle for economic empowerment and police-military interventions into Aboriginal communities in the name of combating social problems. Their policies dovetailed with those of Abbotts Coalition government, which had adopted an Indigenous Advancement Strategy, which reallocated spending on Aboriginal programs to organisations that contracted to deliver outcomes that would cut people off welfare and push them into low-paid work, including at the hands of indigenous business operators, especially in the mining, pastoral and tourism industries. At the Kirribilli get-together, Pearson advocated the establishment, inserted into the colonial-era 1901 Australian Constitution, of an indigenous council to advise governments on all parliamentary legislation. This proposal, one of several listed in the Kirribilli Statement, became the basis for the Voice. How the Voice was devised By September 2015, the Coalition governments deep cuts to welfare, health, education and other social programs, affecting millions of working-class people, had made Abbott so hated that he was deposed by Liberal Party members of parliament and replaced by Malcolm Turnbull. Nevertheless, Turnbull continued the Kirribilli process by jointly appointing, with Shorten, a 15-member Referendum Council and funding it to conduct consultations and community engagement on the Kirribilli proposals. That carefully-selected council included Pearson, Davis, Dodson and Patricia Anderson, chair of the Lowitja Institute, an indigenous health research body, as well as Aboriginal media personality, Stan Grant. They sat alongside former High Court Chief Justice Murray Gleeson, ex-Coalition cabinet minister Amanda Vanstone and one-time Australian Democrats leader Natasha Stott Despoja. An indigenous sub-committee of this body, comprised of its indigenous members, then orchestrated 13 government-funded regional dialogues that were asked to endorse one of five options for constitutional recognition, with the Voice clearly designated as the favourite. As the book by Davis and Williams explains, the participants in these dialogues were selected, not elected. To ensure the authority of the process, the sub-committee members rejected a democratic process, which the authors dismiss as a Western liberal model of election and representation. On the pretext of upholding the cultural authority of elders, the sub-committee structured each dialogue so as to require 60 percent of invitations to the dialogue as traditional owners and elders, 20 percent local Aboriginal organisations, and 20 percent Aboriginal individuals such as Stolen Generations, youth or grandmothers. This invitation formula was thus heavily weighted to holders or claimants of native titlecapitalist property rights created by federal governments after the 1991 Mabo High Court rulingand to existing organisations, mostly government-funded. Elections, a fundamental democratic principle, were rejected because they could lead to the election of some of the working-class indigenous people whose backlash the handpicked elites were so concerned about. Even for these carefully-selected regional dialogues, the agenda was strictly structured. Each was conducted in precisely the same way. After watching documentaries on advocacy for structural reform and civics on how the legal and political system works, the dialogue members were asked to select their priorities for recognition. As intended, the Voice was nominated uppermost, followed closely by treaty-making. Ten delegates were then chosen from each dialogue, also on the basis of cultural authority, to attend a National Constitutional Convention at Uluru in central Australia. Seven convenors and working group leaders from each region were added to the contingents, and the Referendum Council invited other people, such as the federal governments Social Justice Commissioner. That took the Uluru assembly to around 250 people. Despite this highly-orchestrated process, some delegates walked out of the Uluru convention, advocating a sovereign treaty with appropriate funding. This is essentially a bid for even greater power, privileges and resources for the indigenous elites along the lines of the Treaty of Waitangi process in New Zealand. There hundreds of millions of dollars have been distributed to Maori tribal corporations and fostered a wealthy layer of Maori entrepreneurs, politicians, lawyers, academics and bureaucrats. Brushing aside this walkout, Davis and Williams declare that the remaining 200 or so delegates adopted the Voice by consensus. They insist that this was the result of a ground-up decision-making process. Yet their own account of the process shows that it was choreographed from the top down, right from Kirribilli House. The myth of national unity The 2017 gathering endorsed the Uluru Statement from the Heart, which encompassed the Voice scheme. That document invoked Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sovereignty but said this co-exists with the sovereignty of the Crown and would shine through as a fuller expression of Australias nationhood. Denise Bowden, CEO of Yothu Yindi, signing the Uluru Statement from the Heart, in Central Australia, May 29, 2017. [Photo by Australian Human Rights Commission / CC BY 2.0 This conception dovetails with the efforts of the Albanese government to use the Voice referendum to fashion a new version of national identity, along with the myth of national unity. That serves several political purposes. One is to conceal the increasingly yawning social inequality and try to divert the resulting class tensions domestically by presenting a false picture of a unified nation. Its aim is to harness members of the indigenous elite to project a fig leaf of national harmony in the face of mounting working-class discontent over the worsening economic, social and cost-of-living crisis. Another goal is to lay the foundations for attempting to mobilise the whole population, including indigenous people, for the all of nation war effort demanded by the governments recently-released Defence Strategic Review, which outlined massive military spending directed against China. At the same time, the Voice is aimed at burying the brutal origins and record on Australian capitalism against indigenous peoples and project a supposedly inclusive and progressive image for the governments foreign policy agenda. This features bullying and cajoling Pacific island and southeast Asian countries into lining up behind the war preparations being made against China by US and Australian imperialism. Efforts to refashion Australian nationalism along these lines are not entirely new. They have long been a central theme of the official recognition and reconciliation programs. It was certainly at the core of Abbotts support for the 2015 initiative of Pearson and Davis. In his 2014 prime ministerial Australia Day address, Abbott described constitutional recognition of Aboriginal people as another unifying moment in the history of our country. Davis and Williams, in the introduction to their book, likewise say that the Voice referendum could unite Australians around a sense of their shared history. This refrain has become central to the Albanese governments planned presentation of the Voice, in the final stage of the yes campaign, as an act of patriotism, necessary to unite the nation. Concerns voiced in Uluru process Despite the consensus achieved at Uluru, the Davis-Williams book reports that some participants in the process had revealing concerns. Each dialogue said indigenous peak bodies that are responsible for service deliverywhich will be heavily represented in the Voiceare not representative. Many dialogues also said the native title process has torn communities apart and inflamed intracultural disputes and tensions. Dialogue participants voiced concern that the native title system forced them to incorporate their affairs by creating company structures, yet these will also be central to the Voice. By inventing a new form of capitalist property, labelled native title, the courts and governments have sought to divide Aboriginal people from the rest of the working class along the lines of identity politics and property rights. Native title has also fomented conflicts among indigenous elites over the control of these potentially profitable land claims. Some dialogue groups called for the holding of ballot box elections to the Voice, but Davis and Williams insist there was little appetite for generalist elections during the Uluru process. That corresponds with their own denigration of elections as a numbers game. The book goes on to outline the anti-democratic proposals for the structure of the Voice. Its 24 members would be selected, not elected, to four-year posts by local and regional bodies based on similar cultural authority. As the WSWS has pointed out, the proposed selection process is designed to entrench the existing indigenous power structures and elites, and exclude ordinary working-class indigenous people. The reasons that the 2021 government-commissioned Indigenous Voice Co-design Process Final Report by Langton and ex-Social Justice Commissioner Tom Calma gave for rejecting elections included fears of low voter turnout. That anxiety pointed to the lack of support among most indigenous people for the Voice project. The Albanese government has said this model sets out the detail of the Voice. However, the government and the big business backers of the Voice yes campaign have buried any mention of the Langton-Calma report since earlier this year, precisely because of its anti-democratic character. To put a supposed progressive gloss on this plan and its entire anti-working class and pro-business program, the Albanese government is seeking to exploit the deep and genuine revulsion throughout the working class toward the massacres, dispossession, separations and other crimes committed for more than 225 years against the countrys indigenous people. These crimes are not the result of white society, but of British and Australian capitalism, which required the seizure and clearing of the continent in order to establish the conditions for a capitalist economy based on the exploitation of the natural resources and the labour power of a newly-created working class. The essence of the Voice is to further integrate a privileged layer of indigenous CEOs, business operators and senior academics, personified by Davis, Pearson, Langton and Calma, into the capitalist establishment and strengthen, with their help, the same state apparatus that has been responsible for this brutal process, under conditions of deepening working-class disaffection. The historic and ongoing crimes of this social order can be rectified and overcome only through the unified struggle of the working class, indigenous and non-indigenous, in Australia and internationally, to overthrow the capitalist profit system as a whole, and replace it with a socialist society, based on genuine equality and democracy. Following months of talks, BAE Systems, the UKs main armaments manufacturer, confirmed on Tuesday that it will establish an office in Ukraine, as the precursor to building weapons inside Ukraine. The Telegraph reported the major escalation of NATOs war against Russia late Tuesday following a video call hours earlier between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and BAE chief executive Charles Woodburn, Managing Director Gabby Costigan and Director for Cooperation with Ukraine Christian Seear. The newspaper said the FTSE 100 maker of Challenger 2 tanks, artillery pieces and ammunition crucial to the war against Russia holding direct talks with the countrys president was a further sign of Britains central role in arming Ukrainian forces. Zelensky said on Telegram, We discussed the localization of production in Ukraine. We agreed to start work on opening a BAE Systems office in Ukraine, and subsequently repair and production facilities for the companys products. We are interested in direct relations with your company, without any intermediaries, not only now, but also in the long term. We are ready to become a major regional hub for the repair and production of various types of products of BAE Systems and are interested in making our relations more global. Woodburn said, Were proud to be working with our government customers to provide equipment, training and support services to the Ukrainian armed forces. Were also exploring how we could support the Ukrainian government as it revitalises the countrys defence industrial base to ensure their long-term security. The video conference took place following the May 24 visit by UK Defence Minister Ben Wallace to Kiev to meet his counterpart Oleksii Reznikov. A Ministry of Defence (MoD) statement said the visit followed the UK becoming the first country to provide Ukraine with long-range precision strike capability this month Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace said the meeting was to discuss the next stages of Ukraines fight against Russias illegal invasion. The UK continues to offer both equipment, training and advice to Ukraines armed forces. BAE supplies the bulk of the 2.3 billion in military equipment sent to the Ukrainian battlefield by the UK. It makes the Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank, Warrior infantry fighting vehicle, Terrier combat engineer vehicle and military bridging systems. It has a 2.4 billion contract with the MoD to provide all its munitions for the next 15 years. One of its factories in Cheshire, England alone can churn out 1 million munitions a day. In an evening video address Zelensky said of BAE Systems, It is indeed a massive manufacturer of weaponry, the kind of weaponry that we need now and will continue to need. We are working on establishing a suitable base in Ukraine for production and repair. This encompasses a wide range of weaponry, from tanks to artillery. BAE is central to Britains role as one of the worlds leading sellers of arms. Fuelled by demand for its weapons in Ukraine and other war zones, the value of UK arms export licenses more than doubled to 8.5 billion in 2022. This included the 2.4 billion sale of Eurofighter Typhoons and related military equipment to Qatar. The biggest manufacturer in Britain, BAE operates in 40 countries employing 93,000 people. Valued at 27 billion, it is Europes largest defence contractor and was the seventh largest in the world based on now hugely surpassed 2021 revenues. On February 23, almost one year to the day since Russias invasion, BAE celebrated its surge in sales and profits for 2022. It took in a record 37 billion in new orders, propelling its order backlog to 58.9 billion. It had already announced in a trading update last November that it had secured 28 billion of orders so far in 2022. Underlying operating profits were 2.5 billionup 12.5 percent on 2021. In the foreword to its annual report, Woodburn commented, While it is tragic that it took a war in Europe to raise the awareness of the importance of defence around the globe, BAE Systems is well positioned to help national governments keep their citizens safe and secure in an elevated threat environment. The report declared that we expect the renewed importance of armoured combat vehicles in the Ukraine conflict to benefit our combat vehicles business. So large were sales and profits that the statement declared, This has enabled the Board to reward shareholders through the buyback of 788m of our own shares. Woodburn received pay and bonuses totalling more than 10.6 million last year. Commenting on the rocketing in BAEs share value by 50 percent over the previous year to an all-time high, Chairman Sir Roger Carr stated that it should not have taken a war for the investment community to reassess the value of BAE Systems shares, but it has. Among the many BAE manufactured weapons supplied by countries internationally to Ukraine is the M777 howitzer gun, which has a firing range of 14 to 24 miles, and is able to fire precision GPS-guided rather than unguided shells. Last October the Wall Street Journal quoted Mark Signorelli, a vice president of business development at BAE, declaring, The demonstration of the effectiveness and utility of a wide variety of artillery systems is what is coming out of the Ukraine conflict. Ukrainian Army firing a US donated M777 howitzer, May 2022. The M777 howitzer is manufactured by BAE Systems [Photo by www.mil.gov.ua. / CC BY 4.0 The newspaper reported, BAE said that if inquiries from prospective M777 buyers, which include countries in Central Europe, turned into actual orders, it could lead to up to 500 new howitzers. Earlier this month, BAE announced it will play a key role in helping Australia to acquire its first nuclear powered submarines. They will be built as part of the US-UK-Australia (AUKUS) military pact, aimed at ramping up miliary confrontation with China. BAE said, The three nations will deliver a trilaterally developed submarine, based on the UKs next generation design, incorporating technology from all three nations. Australia and the UK will operate SSN-AUKUS, as their submarines of the future, with construction expected to begin this decade. The decision to locate armament production in Ukraine is seen as vital for British imperialism. In February the Telegraph reported, Other European defence companies are also in talks with Ukraine, with British companies keen not to be beaten to the punch by French and German rivals. A race is on to put the UK at the front of the queue, one [defence company] executive told The Telegraph. In May the World Socialist Web Site noted that Germanys Rheinmetall has established a joint venture for the repair and construction of tanks with the Ukrainian state-owned company Ukroboronprom. The cooperation on tanks is only the first step on the way to comprehensive cooperation, writes the Handelsblatt newspaper. BAEs plans to produce weapons in Ukraine is confirmation of the fact that Britain, as the WSWS warned, is in an undeclared war with Russia. Tensions with Russia were heightened again with the comments of Foreign Minister James Cleverly in Estonia, Wednesday. Speaking about Ukraines drone strikes on Moscow the previous day, he said, Ukraine does have the legitimate right to defend itself. It has the legitimate right to do so within its own borders, of course, but it does also have the right to project force beyond its borders to undermine Russia's ability to project force into Ukraine itself. So legitimate military targets beyond its own border are part of Ukraines self-defence. And we should recognise that. Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chair of the Security Council of the Russian Federation and a former president, responded, The goofy officials of the UK, our eternal enemy, should remember that within the framework of the universally accepted international law which regulates modern warfare, including the Hague and Geneva Conventions with their additional protocols, their state can also be qualified as being at war. Today, the UK acts as Ukraines ally providing it with military aid in the form of equipment and specialists, i.e., de facto is leading an undeclared war against Russia. That being the case, any of its public officials (either military, or civil, who facilitate the war) can be considered as a legitimate military target. In this image taken from video, investigators inspect the building after a Ukrainian drone damaged an apartment building in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. [AP Photo] On Tuesday, Ukraine launched its second drone strike on Moscow to date and the first targeting civilian homes. Eight fixed-wing drones were launched, of which at least one crashed into an apartment building. Tuesdays attack on the capital city of Russia is a signal that, following last weeks G7 meetingat which the US announced it would send F-16 fightersthe imperialist powers have decided to bring the war ever more directly into Russian territory. These attacks are aimed at provoking a retaliatory response by Russia, which could then be used to justify a further escalation by NATO, including the potential entry of NATO troops directly into the conflict. The claims by the United States that it does not encourage or enable strikes inside of Russia are transparent lies, aimed not at deceiving the Russian government but the American people. Ukraines attacks on the Russian capital would have been discussed with and authorized by the United States. Ukraine has received US authorization in private to carry out strikes inside Russia, the Times of London reported in December. The Pentagon has given a tacit endorsement of Ukraines long-range attacks on targets inside Russia, it wrote. Statements from political figures in the US and its allies implicitly endorsed the attacks. Former congressman Adam Kinzinger, an anti-Trump Republican, wrote: Hey #Russia. You lost your right to be outraged about a drone attack on Moscow back in Feb 2022. Live by the sword UK Foreign Minister James Cleverly said that Ukraine has the right to project force beyond its borders and that such attacks are internationally recognized as being legitimate as part of a nations self-defense. Last week, a far-right reporter asked Democratic Representative Jerrold Nadler whether he opposed attacks inside Russia, to which he replied, Nope thats fair play. But why should Russia feel that they can invade somebody else? And have total safety at home? Beyond the immediate impact of the drone strikes, Tuesdays attack could also be preparatory to a more sustained air assault. The New York Times, citing Sam Bendett, an adviser on Russian studies at CNA, a research center connected to the military and intelligence agencies, wrote, Apart from creating a sense of vulnerability in Russia, [Bendett] said, Ukrainian drone attacks might serve to test Moscows air defense systems and identify potential weaknesses that could be exploited in other attacks. Following the G7 summit, the WSWS noted that Washingtons decision to deploy F-16 fighter jets was not made at that time, but much earlier, as was made clear by previous statements from US officials. The WSWS wrote, If the decision to send F-16s to Ukraine was taken months ago, it was taken at a time when the US-NATO proxy forces in Ukraine were performing far better than they are now. With the fall of Bakhmut, we added, a much vaunted Ukrainian counter-offensive has failed to materialize. This raised the question, How will the United States respond to this latest debacle? How much further can Washington escalate? The drone attacks give an indication. They are part of a series of measures taken by the US-NATO powers and its proxy force in Ukraine since the G7 meeting 10 days ago. Last Wednesday, the USS Gerald R. Ford, the largest warship ever constructed, arrived in Oslo, Norway before carrying out freedom of navigation operations in the Arctic waters near Russia. Yesterday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Sweden to push for its accession to NATO as the western borders of Russia become a battlefront. It is becoming clear that the sweeping goals articulated by the United States for its Ukrainian proxy force to go on the offensive to liberate Russian-occupied Ukraine, as US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley spelled out in January, are not possible without a massive expansion of US-NATO involvement in the war. NATOs preparations for a direct entry into the war are being increasingly openly discussed. On Tuesday, General Karel Rehka, the chief of the general staff of the Czech armed forces, said that NATO needs to prepare for a direct war with Russia. War between Russia and the North Atlantic Alliance is possible, he said. Russia is currently on a course towards a conflict with the Alliance. ... It can happen, and it is necessary to prepare for it in the long run. The US media is advocating the concept that the threat of nuclear war is an acceptable risk in seeking the defeat of Russia, publicly claiming that Putins failure to retaliate in response to perpetual NATO provocations gives the United States the freedom to escalate further. In a guest opinion piece in the Times titled, We Forget Nuclear Powers Have Lost Wars, the pro-war historian Timothy Snyder declared, When Russians talk about nuclear war, the safest response is to ensure their very conventional defeat. To those who warn that this course of action threatens the destruction of human civilization, Snyder replied bizarrely, No option is without hazards. For his part, Putin, representing a faction of the Russian oligarchy, is perpetually seeking some sort of accommodation with his Western partners, who have no interest in being accommodated. While the Russian government is under pressure to escalate further, it is also terrified of the consequences of the growth of social opposition within the working class. Speaking in Sydney, Australia on the new book Leon Trotsky and the Struggle for Socialism in the Twenty-First Century, WSWS Editorial Board Chairman David North explained the far-reaching consequences of the US-NATO war against Russia. The Ukraine war is not going away, he noted. It is metastasizing into a conflict of ever greater dimensions. It is the opening episode of what will soon be clear to be a world war, and it has the most dangerous implications. One could look at their policies and ask, dont they realize this could result in a nuclear war? This is insane. And its true, it is insane. But this insanity must be explained materialistically. It means that the actions of the imperialist powers are a response to contradictions which have closed off rational responses. North added, There are two processes at work. There is the process which leads, through the contradictions of capitalism, to devastating war and cataclysm. But those very contradictions also produce social revolution. Even as the US and NATO escalate the war against Russia, the working class is entering into struggle throughout the world. It is this social force that must be organized, educated and politically mobilized to put an end to war and the capitalist system. Work at Master Lock? We want to hear from you: Fill out the form at the end to discuss forming a rank-and-file committee to defend jobs or share your thoughts. A worker produces locks at Master Lock company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on January 25, 2012. [AP Photo/Jeffrey Phelps] Workers and local residents have reacted angrily to the decision by Master Lock to close its 100-year-old plant in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The shutdown is a further heavy blow to a city already deeply scarred by poverty after decades of deindustrialization. The company issued a brief statement on May 24 saying it would close its Milwaukee plant by March 2024, impacting some 360 hourly workers at the facility. Master Lock said it planned to consolidate production to other US and global facilities, as well as at external suppliers. Fortune Brand Innovations, the current owner of Master Lock, is a highly profitable conglomerate, with some $7.7 billion in annual sales. Fortune Brands CEO Nicholas Fink takes home roughly $10 million in annual compensation. Master Lock manufactures combination locks, padlocks and other security devices. The company was founded in 1921 in the Milwaukee suburb of Oak Creek with just five employees. It gradually expanded and by the early 1990s had about 1,300 workers at its Milwaukee operations. Shortly after the closure announcement, the United Auto Workers International posted a Facebook statement full of nationalist demagogy, attempting to divert workers anger against their class brothers and sisters in Mexico. UAW Region 4 Director Brandon Campbell wrote in the statement, The announced closing of MasterLock is one more cut to American workers that stems from our horrible trade agreements. In the 1990s, the company fired about 1,000 workers when they moved work to Mexico so they could exploit workers there, in the name of more and more profits. He ended with a pathetic plea for management to come to the table with the UAW so collectively they can continue their legacy of manufacturing in the industrial Midwest for 102 more years. Inevitably such discussions, if they ever come to fruition, will involve squeezing more production and profits off the backs of workers. The announcement of the closure of Master Lock in Milwaukee is an object lesson in the bankrupt nationalist and pro-capitalist program of the UAW bureaucracy. For decades, the union apparatus has forced through endless concessions aimed at offering up American workers as a low-wage alternative to workers in countries such as Mexico and China. The result has been a drastic lowering of the living standards of American workers and the destruction of hundreds of thousands of jobs in auto and other basic industries. The experience of workers at Master Lock is a case lesson. In 2012 Master Lock invited President Obama to visit the Milwaukee plant, following the companys decision to bring back a fraction of the jobs it had previously outsourced. In 1999 Master Lock, under the ownership of Fortune Brands and Security, had moved most operations at the Milwaukee plant to Mexico and China, resulting in the loss of approximately 1,154 jobs. In 2009, the UAW bureaucracy agreed to a deeply concessionary, five-year contract to begin the process of insourcing jobs back into the plant. According to the UAW, wages at the plant currently average $20 an hour, a near poverty-level wage under current economic conditions. Obamas highly touted 2012 visit to Master Lock came in the midst of his 2012 presidential reelection campaign. A major campaign theme was the promotion of his plan for insourcing production jobs from overseas to the United States. Corporations would be enticed to bring jobs back by slashing the wages and benefits of US workers, while driving up productivity and lowering corporate taxes to make investment more attractive compared to China and other low-wage areaswith the UAW and other union bureaucracies acting as willing partners in these anti-worker attacks. Speaking at the plant, Obama gloated, When Master Lock looked at their numbers, the president said, they saw that union workers in America could do the same job at competitive costs as nonunion workers in China. In 2008 the UAW had agreed to an agreement at Master Lock that began the process of insourcing. The contract instituted a pay for knowledge scheme that rewarded workers for completing certain training courses at the local technical college. While the UAW claimed the deal did not impose a wage cut, starting pay at the time was an abysmal $13 an hour. Only one year later, the UAW agreed to devastating concessions as part of the forced bankruptcy and restructuring of the auto industry under the Obama administration. The 2009 Big Three agreements slashed the pay of new hires by 50 percent, ended traditional pensions and vastly expanded the use of low-paid temporary part-time workers with few benefits and no contract rights. As part of the deal, the UAW signed off on the elimination of some 30,000 jobs. The results were predictable. The auto companies have been raking in bumper profits over the last decade while the real pay of autoworkers has been slashed and working conditions further eroded. In the meantime, many of the same UAW bureaucrats who oversaw the concessions have been indicted and sent to prison in a vast corruption scandal involving the payment of corporate bribes and the outright theft of members dues. Speaking to a World Socialist Web Site reporting team in 2012, a worker at the Milwaukee Master Lock plant said, There used to be 1,300 workers here. Now there are 380. Were supposed to be happy with a handful of jobs? The ones hired are making $3 less an hour and instead of having to pay 10 percent of their health care costs they are paying 25 percent. The UAW has gone along with all of this. The companys Milwaukee plant is one of the few factories left in the Sherman Park neighborhood, a predominately African American area that has been devastated by decades of deindustrialization. In 2015 the neighborhood exploded in anger over the police killing of 23-year-old Sylville K. Smith. In response, then-Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, a Republican, put National Guard troops on standby. Between 1960 and 2010 the city lost three-quarters of its manufacturing jobs, heavily impacting black workers, who suffer one of the highest unemployment rates in the US. The employment rate for white workers has also declined sharply. At one point in the early decades of the 20th century, Milwaukee was known as the Machine Shop of the World. In recent decades the Democratic Party and the trade unions have presided over a massive decimation of jobs and living standards in Milwaukee and other former industrial centers. The reality of the insourcing strategy has been a years-long attack on wages, working conditions and jobs, as workers in the US are pitted against workers in other countries in a fratricidal race to the bottom. In the present, the corporations, the political establishment and the UAW bureaucracy are preparing even greater attacks in the auto industry and beyond, under conditions of an accelerating economic crisis and the resurgence of class struggle. The defense of jobs cannot be conducted by the pro-capitalist and nationalist union bureaucracies, nor by the big business-controlled Democratic or Republican Parties, but only by mobilizing the power of the working class through the construction of rank-and-file factory and workplace committees, uniting workers across plants, industries and national borders. We encourage Master Lock workers interested in forming a rank-and-file committee or sharing their experiences to contact the WSWS. As Sunday night extended into the early hours of Monday in downtown Davenport, Iowa, people gathered around a partially collapsed century-old apartment building, protesting the citys demolition plan. With individuals believed to be still trapped inside and five residents unaccounted for at the time of this writing, protesters shouted, Find them first! and Move the bricks! An apartment building that partially collapsed two days earlier can be seen Tuesday, May 30, 2023, in Davenport, Iowa. [AP Photo/Erin Hooley] Known as The Davenport, the apartment building at 324 Main Street, built in 1911, collapsed on Sunday evening at around 5 p.m. The city government had plans to initiate demolition by Tuesday morning, citing a safety risk and danger of imminent collapse. News about the planned demolition circulated rapidly through social media, sparking protests. Initially, the citys Democratic mayor, Mike Matson, a former Army Ranger, asserted that no additional individuals were thought to be trapped within the wreckage. However, on Monday afternoon, a rescue team found Lisa Brooks, a 45-year-old mother of three and nurse at Davenports local hospital, alive in the rubble. As of now, the authorities have reported no deaths. The public outcry grew following the delayed discovery of Brooks, the ninth survivor, and protests spilled over into Tuesday. Residents feared that the scheduled demolition could seal the fate of potential survivors trapped within the wreckage. Friends and family of the residents began to gather outside the building on Monday, desperate for news about loved ones who lived there. On Tuesday morning, city officials retracted their initial proposal, stating, The actual timing for the physical obliteration of the property remains under consideration. Five individuals, including Ryan Hitchcock and Branden Colvin, remain unaccounted for and are believed to be inside the building. Protests have intensified, with news outlets reporting that around 250 people had gathered near the building by 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday. Davenport is one of the Quad Cities on the Iowa-Illinois border. Jade McGuire, a Moline, Illinois, resident, told the Quad City Times that she had joined fellow protesters for nine hours on Monday near the partially collapsed apartment building. By 6 a.m. Tuesday, she had returned to the heartrending scene. The 29-year-old was drawn to the site by her personal experience with the grim realities of living in dilapidated rental accommodations. I went two years without heat. It was so bad my partner got frostbite on her toes, she said. In the rental before that, we had eight gas leaks. This also has a lot to do with poor people being forced to live in bad conditions, she added. I came here because I wanted to be a voice of reason. She said renters often lack a say in the maintenance of their living spaces and their concerns are frequently dismissed. Criticizing the police on the scene, she said, [The police officers] were shaking their heads, smirking and lying to family members. If youre going to be someone in higher authority, you have to be willing to answer questions. I know the officers cant do that, but they were smirking and scoffing at people, who were crying. An employee at aluminum maker Arconic in nearby Riverdale, Iowa, told the WSWS: I have seen it and have been following a few updates. I dont know anyone personally involved, but some of my coworkers do. Its a very bad deal. He expressed shock at the citys moves to demolish the building on Tuesday, saying, Yeah, thats crazy. Im sure there was some money pushing behind that idea. Multiple residents told WQAD News 8 that the building had deteriorated before its partial collapse. The building had consistent water issues and cracks in the walls. There is always something wrong with the water, resident Toriana Hill said. Its always something wrong with the building, period. Yvette Williams, another resident, said, When you first come into my apartment, on the right-hand side, before you go into the kitchen, there was a crack. Scott County records show that Davenport Hotel LLC, associated with Andrew Wold, owns the apartment building. Although city officials have been in contact with Wold, it remains unclear whether a criminal investigation will follow the disaster. In response to the collapse, Republican Governor Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Scott County. The proclamation activates the Iowa Individual Assistance Grant Program and the Disaster Case Management Program for affected residents, which provide grants of up to $5,000 for households with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Beyond the physical collapse, the disaster has had a devastating personal impact. The collapse has destroyed entire homes filled with treasured possessions, leaving residents homeless. The chilling images of the partially collapsed building, with personal belongings dangling precariously, evoke other structural failures such as the Surfside, Florida, condo collapse in 2021. The WSWS wrote at the time: The residents of the beachfront building, located just north of Miami Beach, include retirees, middle-class families and vacation renters. Depending on how many people were in bed and how many survivors can be pulled from the rubble, the Champlain Towers disaster will rank as one of the deadliest residential building collapses in American history. The incident once again exposes the decrepit state of infrastructure in the United States and raises questions about how such a building could fall down in the wealthiest country in the world. The Davenport disaster exposes once more the reality facing workers in the United States. As with the pandemic, in which profit was placed over lives, leading to over a million deaths in the United States and millions more worldwide, even the most basic of rights, including the right to live in a safe home, is under threat. Work at UPS? We want to hear from you. Tell us what youre demanding in the upcoming contract by filling out the form below. All submissions will be kept anonymous. A UPS driver removing a package to deliver in August, 2020 [Photo: US Department of Agriculture] The contract for 340,000 United Parcel Service (UPS) workers is set to expire on July 31, only two months away. UPS workers across the country, like the working class as a whole, has watched its living standards plummet for generations, and are determined to win back decades of concessions made to the multi-billion-dollar logistics giant. All of this was made possible by the treacherous, pro-company bureaucracy of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which has given away everything won by workers in earlier periods of explosive class struggles. In 2018, the Teamsters bureaucracy accepted and implemented the current concessionary UPS contract against an overwhelming rejection by the rank-and-file. The new Teamsters administration, headed by President Sean OBrien with key support from the pseudo-left Teamsters for a Democratic Union (TDU) caucus, is posturing as militant and even left, pledging to strike if no new deal is in place by July 31. But it is no less committed to the companys bottom line than previous administrations. OBrien and his gang have spent the last year enforcing the dictates of the ruling class and its state, playing a critical role in the banning of a national rail strike and strangling the struggles of countless workers across the continent. Last week, UPS workers from Local 804 in New York City spoke with the World Socialist Web Site about the conditions they face in the most expensive city in the world and the struggle ahead. A UPS trailer loader who had just finished a work shift told WSWS reporters, The conditions for workers here are horrible. We are doing very heavy labor, and we only get paid $16 an hour in New York City. One worker here does double shifts every day just to keep his house because $16 an hour is so little money. I load trailers, not trucks, he continued. Each trailer holds 3,500 or more packages. The weight of the vast majority of these packages ranges from 50 pounds to 90 pounds or more. There should be six or seven people a night doing this work. But because our pay is so low, people dont show up a lot. We should have three people in the trucks, two people scanning and one pushing the packages down the conveyor belt. Tonight, we had five people, and we still loaded four trailers. After we finish a trailer, which is generally about 45 minutes or an hours work, we get a 10-minute break. That is all. Just 10 minutes, and we are back loading the next trailer. There is one person unloading one trailer by himself, and then he gets a 10-minute break. What is a 10-minute break when there is no stopping? The equipment we are working with is breaking down. When it does, and we put in a request for it to be fixed, it may not get fixed before the end of our shift. The conveyor systems are really old. We have to bend down to take the packages off the low conveyor belts. We have workers with bad backs and shoulder injuries as a result. The manual conveyor belts are old and have been here for years. Sometimes we have to lift the manual conveyor belt up and put it back on so it works. I think that is a maintenance job. When they cant fix it, we tell the supervisor, and many times it doesnt get fixed on our shift. Then we have to use another conveyor belt. We always have to have someone pushing the packages down the manual conveyor belt, and if we use the automatic conveyor somebody has to be there because it jams. What goes on here is the hardest work ever. We are exploited all the time, and there are cameras already where we work. We work carefully because we cant afford to get injured. You cant miss a day because the weeks pay is barely enough to pay the rent and bills. They need to pay us more money. $20 an hour would be a start. Asked about the ongoing contract negotiations the worker said, When you hear about the contract, it is mostly he says, she says. I barely see my shop steward. I generally ask my supervisor. Raising our pay would bring more workers in. With a pay increase, I might work OT. The union only represents those closest to the company. I lift 120-pound boxes, only get 10-minute breaks and get paid $16 an hour. People like me who do the really hard work, they dont represent us. The Teamsters have pledged not to begin negotiations on the national agreement until all regional supplemental deals have been bargained for. The union, however, violated its own pledge when it began national talks with two regional deals still outstanding. But even for those supplemental deals which have been agreed to, workers have not seen anything concrete. A tractor trailer driver, when asked about the Local 804 Supplemental Contract, said, I heard it has two more sick days in it. Asked what more was in it and when the union would present it to the rank and file, he replied, We dont know too much more. Workers are being left in the dark as the bureaucracy and management meet behind closed doors to cobble together contracts that fall far from meeting the needs of workers. A 10-year warehouse worker advocated a contract with base pay for workers of almost $25 an hour. For this contract, they should establish a base salary that pays $24.50 an hour, and see if that doesnt work retaining workers and keep them coming to work. People are looking for money today. UPS is losing workers to Target and FedEx because they pay more. The health care here doesnt count for that much. Neither the company nor the union want to listen to a 10-year worker like me. Now workers come in at $17 an hour if they raise the minimum wage. Maybe they could pay you $21 an hour while they train you like they do with the drivers. But they would have to train you well. The scanner equipment dies because they havent trained the worker properly. Training is critical. It is like getting into the union where it takes 40 days of work to get in the union. Then they rob you. UPS made $14 billion last year. It is money that attracts people, but it is Target that trains people at $18 and $19 an hour. And here it is only a select few who get chosen for extra pay and work. When I started here, I used to stay until 10 or 11 a.m. A pre-loader who has worked a few months at UPS commented, We are getting $15.50 an hour. Our wages should be at least $20 an hour. Another loader coming off of a work shift commented, I cant get by on just this job. As a part-timer I make well under a living wage in this city. Many of us work two, three jobs. Ive actually got a shift at Dairy Queen later today. Ive got a son that I have to look after, and they dont make it easy for me here. My son was sick the other day and I didnt come to work. I just found out that they have suspended me because of that. Commenting on the contract negotiations, the worker said, We dont have a dog in the race. Ive been here since 2019 and know what they did with this contract we are currently working under. It stinks and we need something better, but these guys [bureaucrats] will only look after themselves. Speaking about the formation of rank-and-file committees independent of the union apparatus and democratically controlled by the rank and file, uniting UPS workers with the working class more broadly, the worker said, I think this is something that workers here will get behind. What we need is all the workers united. The different tiers that we have are meant to divide us up, but we are all in the same boat and have to take the initiative to move things forward. When asked about contract developments before starting his shift, a delivery driver stated, This contract we have now is trash! We got nothing and arent getting anything if this keeps up. The International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) strongly encourage youth and workers in the Great Toronto Area to attend the June 4 meeting, The War in Ukraine and How to Stop It, hosted by the IYSSE as part of a worldwide series of meetings aimed at building a socialist anti-war movement in the working class. The meeting will take place at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday at the Toronto Public Library - Lillian H. Smith Branch, 239 College St Auditorium (basement level), Toronto, M5T 1R5. The twin developments of the US-NATO war against Russia in Ukraine and the explosive intensification of the global class struggle dominate every aspect of social life in 2023. The world stands on the precipice of a nuclear third world war. Masses of workers and youth across the globe are entering into revolutionary confrontations against capitalist governments and the socioeconomic system they defend, fuelled by unprecedented social inequality and brutal austerity. The objective strivings of the working class towards socialism point the way forward for the resolution of these crises on a progressive basis, but they must be guided by a deeper understanding of history and the Trotskyist perspective of socialist internationalism. The IYSSEs meeting will explain the historical causes of the fratricidal war in Ukraine, which are rooted in the long-term economic decline of US imperialism and its Canadian imperialist ally, as well as the betrayal of the 1917 October Revolution in Russia by the nationalist regime of Joseph Stalin and the Stalinist bureaucracys dissolution of the USSR and restoration of capitalism in 1991. The meeting will make the case for why Canadian youth and workers must study this history and turn to the international working class as the only social base for a powerful movement to end war through socialist revolution. Youth and workers cannot end the ongoing bloodshed in Ukraine by orienting themselves to the criminal Russian oligarchy or any other capitalist government. Nor should they buy into the fantasy of a progressive Canadian imperialism capable of playing an altruistic role in a so-called multi-polar world, as proposed by middle class pacifist organizations. Canadian imperialism, soaked in blood from head to toe from its genocidal dispossession of the indigenous population to the predatory wars it has waged throughout the twentieth and twenty-first centuries in league with its American and British partners, is a major belligerent in the war against Russia. Under Operation Unifier, the Canadian Armed Forces played a major role in training and reorganizing Ukraines military to prepare for war with Russia. This included helping integrate fascist militia like the Azov battalion. [Photo: Canadian Department of Defence] For the Canadian ruling class, whose military-security alliance with American imperialism dates back to World War Two, the defeat and dismemberment of the Russian Federation offers the prospect of lucrative new markets, natural resources, and labour for Canadian banks and corporations to exploit. The current war against nuclear-armed Russia, as devastating as it is, is just a prelude to the main target of American and Canadian imperialism, China. With an economy which is rapidly eclipsing that of the United States, China is viewed by the American ruling class as its most dangerous rival. Washingtons top strategists have concluded that the subjugation of Russia is a necessary prerequisite to war with China, which they predict could break out as early as 2025. The economic and geopolitical interests of Canadian imperialism compel it to enthusiastically participate in this new round of great power conflict between nuclear-armed states, the logic of which leads inevitably to world war. Since Putins reactionary invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the federal Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has spent over $8 billion in financial and military aid for Kiev. This includes arming and training the Ukrainian military, which is infested with fascist forces like the Azov Battalion. Canadian imperialism has a decades-long partnership with the Ukrainian far-right, which the political establishment and corporate media furiously try to deny. After World War Two, the federal government funneled thousands of Ukrainian fascists into the country and allowed them to whitewash their crimes. These included collaborating with the Nazis to carry out the massacre of six million European Jews in the Holocaust. The descendants of these war criminals, among them Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, collaborate closely with the far-right Ukrainian Canadian Congress, which today wields unparalleled political influence in Ottawa and is at the forefront of beating the drums of war. Meanwhile, the skyrocketing cost of living and decades of declining living and working conditions have pushed tens of thousands of Canadian workers into open struggle against the corporations and the capitalist state, the main proponents of war. Major strikes, like the walkout of over 100,000 federal government workers in April, are erupting on an almost daily basis. Over half a million public sector workers in Quebec are in the midst of a contract battle against Premier Francois Legaults corporatist and anti-immigrant government. Contracts for autoworkers on both sides of the US-Canada border expire in the fall, creating the opportunity for a joint international struggle of the over 170,000-strong automotive workforce. In order to defeat the corporations, however, workers and youth must decisively break with the nationalist and pro-capitalist trade union apparatus, which for decades has overseen attacks on jobs and wages. On the question of war, the unions, like UNIFOR in Canada and the United Auto Workers (UAW) in the US, fully support the war drive and the xenophobic campaigns against workers in Latin America, Asia, and Europe. The situation is just as dire for young people across the country, who face a future of uncertain career prospects, poverty wages, and the near impossibility of starting a family. University and college tuition is increasingly out of reach for masses of working class youth. Even when they manage to enroll, they quickly discover that the schools have become nothing more than centres for improving corporate profits and the deadliness of the Canadian military, with the promotion of identity politics used to justify this pro-capitalist propaganda and steer students away from Marxism. Only by studying the history of the past century, above all the impact of the 1917 Russian Revolution in ending World War One, and the role played by the Bolshevik Party in leading the Russian working class and peasantry to power in a socialist revolution, can youth and workers begin to understand how to avert the barbarism of World War III. The history of the Trotskyist movement, including its life-and-death struggle against the nationalist degeneration of the Soviet Union under Stalinism, is indispensable in providing any objective assessment of the war in Ukraine and how to stop it. These crucial historical and theoretical questions will be elaborated upon at the June 4 meeting. Keith Jones, the national secretary of the Socialist Equality Party (Canada) will deliver the main report. He will subsequently participate in a panel discussion with WSWS writer James Clayton, a co-author of Canadian Imperialisms Fascist Friends, a thorough exposure of the intimate ties between Ukrainian far-right nationalists and the Canadian state. All workers and young people in the GTA looking for a way to oppose war should make plans to attend Sundays meeting and join the struggle for the construction of an international working class-led anti-war movement. The first demonstration village for sustainable development in Nepal, which is supported by the China Foundation for Rural Development (CFRD), was launched on Monday. Produced by Xinhua Global Service Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, addresses the opening ceremony of the eighth annual meeting of the New Development Bank (NDB) held in Shanghai, east China, May 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) SHANGHAI, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang on Tuesday expressed hope that the New Development Bank (NDB) can join hands with all parties to shape a new era for global development. Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks while attending the opening ceremony of the bank's eighth annual meeting held in Shanghai. Calling the bank a key milestone for cooperation between BRICS countries, Ding said the NDB has become a vital emerging force among multilateral development institutions, with its influence steadily expanding across the world. He urged enlarging the space for global development and cooperation, promoting concrete cooperation between the bank's member countries in terms of economic development, people's livelihoods, sci-tech innovation and climate change. More should be done to strengthen the bank's collaboration with other multilateral and bilateral development institutions to mobilize more resources to expedite the development of emerging markets and developing countries. Ding also called for efforts to promote the building of new types of infrastructure, explore new investment and financing modes, and improve the international economic governance system. Themed "Shaping a New Era for Global Development," the NDB's eighth annual meeting runs from May 30 to 31 in Shanghai. Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, addresses the opening ceremony of the eighth annual meeting of the New Development Bank (NDB) held in Shanghai, east China, May 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Dilma Rousseff, the president of the New Development Bank (NDB), before the opening ceremony of the bank's eighth annual meeting held in Shanghai, east China, May 30, 2023. Ding addressed the opening ceremony of the bank's eighth annual meeting on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, poses for a group photo with heads of foreign delegations attending the opening ceremony of the eighth annual meeting of the New Development Bank (NDB) held in Shanghai, east China, May 30, 2023. Ding addressed the opening ceremony of the bank's eighth annual meeting on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, addresses the opening ceremony of the eighth annual meeting of the New Development Bank (NDB) held in Shanghai, east China, May 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Dilma Rousseff, the president of the New Development Bank (NDB), before the opening ceremony of the bank's eighth annual meeting held in Shanghai, east China, May 30, 2023. Ding addressed the opening ceremony of the bank's eighth annual meeting on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows a damaged building at the site of a drone attack in Moscow, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Zemlianichenko Jr/Xinhua) Putin said that Kiev has chosen a different path, namely to try to intimidate Russia and its citizens, and attack local residential buildings. MOSCOW, May 30 (Xinhua) -- The drone attack against civilian infrastructure here is "a clear sign of terrorist activity," Russian President Vladimir Putin said Tuesday. According to a press release issued by the Kremlin, Putin said that Kiev has chosen a different path, namely to try to intimidate Russia and its citizens, and attack local residential buildings. "They provoke us to mirror actions. Let's see what to do about it," he said. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said earlier on Tuesday that the Russian armed forces are reacting "as harshly as possible to the terrorist attacks of Ukrainian militants." The Ukrainian side has denied its direct involvement in the attack on Moscow. Several buildings in Moscow were slightly damaged by the early morning drone attack, said Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, adding that there were no immediate reports of serious injuries. BEIJING, May 31 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities are not qualified to talk about peace because their "Taiwan independence" stance is the actual source of war anxiety among the Taiwan people, a mainland spokesperson said Wednesday. Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks at a press conference. The deep worry about war among the people of Taiwan was triggered by the DPP authorities' colluding with external forces to provoke the mainland, the DPP's hyping up of so-called threats from the mainland, and their wanton purchase of arms, Zhu said. Since the DPP took office on the island in 2016, it has unilaterally broken the political foundation for cross-Strait relations, engaged in separatist activities, and hindered exchanges and cooperation across the Taiwan Strait, she said. The DPP authorities are the ones who have broken the status-quo and undermined stability across the Strait, Zhu said. At the seventh anniversary of her taking office as Taiwan leader, Tsai Ing-wen talked about cross-Strait peace and dialogue but never mentioned the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, which are the political foundation for cross-Strait dialogues and consultations, Zhu said, adding that any attempt for "a peaceful secession" will fail. MANILA, May 31 (Xinhua) -- The World Bank approved a 176-million-U.S. dollar loan on Wednesday to fund a fisheries project that aims to improve fisheries management, enhance the value of fisheries production, and elevate incomes in coastal communities in the Philippines. The multilateral lender said in a statement that the project will benefit over 1.15 million fisherfolk, small-to-medium businesses and residents in coastal communities. According to the bank, the fisheries sector contributes 1.3 percent to the Southeast Asian country's gross domestic product. It provides approximately 1.6 million jobs, or around 4 percent of the labor force, including for low-income families engaged in subsistence fishing. However, the sector has faced challenges, with fish stocks declining by an average of 20 percent over the past decade due to over-exploitation, destructive fishing methods, habitat degradation, and negative impacts from land-based activities. This project aligns with the country's commitment to environmentally sound practices in fishing and aquaculture while ensuring improved incomes for those involved in the sector, said Ndiame Diop, World Bank Country Director for Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand. "The long-term goal is to foster enhanced community resilience in these coastal regions, which will be reflected in thriving fish stocks, improved food security, reduced poverty and heightened competitiveness in key seafood commodities," Diop added. One person is dead and one is hospitalized following a single-vehicle crash outside of Loris on Monday evening. The crash happened on West Bear Grass Road around 6:27 p.m., according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol. The driver of a Lexus Sudan was traveling north on Fremont Road while trying to evade law enforcement. An Horry County police officer noticed the driver was going about 66 miles per hour in a 35-speed zone on Plantation Drive, according to an incident report obtained by the Sun News. The officer stated that while going 128 mph in pursuit, they could not gain on the vehicle. and lost track around 6:29. They were notified by another officer of the crash when it happened. The driver traveled off the right side of the road, over-corrected then traveled off the left side and crashed into a tree line, according to South Carolina Highway Patrol. The passenger of the sedan died at the scene and was found in the woods by a civilian, according to the report. He was identified as Levious Hayes, 24, of Longs by the Horry County Coroners Office Tuesday morning. The driver was taken to a hospital in the area. Its unclear if they are facing charges yet. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the collision. Sultana Amani was among the Afghans who were able to flee Afghanistan as Kabul fell to the Taliban in the summer of 2021. / Credit: Afghan Blossom Pad Foundation event Sultana Amani was among the Afghans who were able to flee Afghanistan as Kabul fell to the Taliban in the summer of 2021. She felt safe as the plane touched down in Virginia, before she was overwhelmed by worry about what the future held. She and her family, along with 77,000 Afghans, resettled in the U.S. under humanitarian parole, a policy that allows people who may not otherwise be eligible to be in America to live and work here temporarily. CBS News first spoke to Amani and her family when they arrived at Fort McCoy, in Wisconsin, where they stayed for two months before finding housing in Maryland, with the help of the International Rescue Committee. Amani has found the adjustment to American life difficult and emotionally taxing. Her mother, Khadija Rahimi, worked in the Afghan government the family left Afghanistan in part over fears of retribution by the Taliban. In Maryland, Rahimi, unable to find work, fell into a yearlong depression. Amani's father, Mohammad Amani, an artist known for his ornate carpets, now works at a bakery. They're grateful to be safe but are homesick for Afghanistan. Amani, now a student at American University, maintains her connection with Afghanistan by continuing to work with the non-profit Blossom Pad, which she founded in Afghanistan. The group gives menstrual sanitary pads to disadvantaged Afghan girls. "I like being here because I have access to everything. Nobody tells me what to do," says Amani. Everyone in the family has applied for asylum, but only Amani's application has been approved so far. Fewer than 5,000 of the 77,000 Afghans resettled in the U.S. under a special legal process have secured permanent legal status for themselves and their families, according to Department of Homeland Security figures. Every day when she comes home from school, her family members ask her to check on their asylum status. "Their situation is unknown. They don't know what is going to happen," Amani said. "I don't know why this process is like this." Story continues Stalled process When Afghan refugees arrived in the U.S. after the chaotic American withdrawal from Afghanistan, they were allowed into the country under humanitarian parole for two years. The Biden administration is allowing those Afghans to apply to stay and work in the country legally for at least another two years. This alleviated the immediate fears of losing their ability to work and live in the U.S. legally, but it doesn't confer any kind of permanent status. For that, Congress would have to pass the Afghan Adjustment Act that is currently stalled amid concerns by some Republicans that the evacuees were not properly vetted. Vetting was a significant challenge during the chaotic evacuation, which let some dangerous individuals slip into the U.S. The legislation would require additional screening for those applying for permanent residency. "Sitting around and not doing anything is just not an option here. What does it say to people around the world when they stand with America?" Senator Amy Klobuchar, Democrat of Minnesota, who introduced the bill, said in a statement to CBS News. There is currently a congressional mandate meant to expedite Afghan evacuee asylum cases, but the U.S. has been inundated with asylum requests from all over the world. There are over 700,000 urgent pending applications, according to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Recently USCIS postponed interviews for all affirmative asylum cases to deal with the implementation of a new asylum rule along the southern border. The International Rescue Committee has filed over 1,200 asylum applications on behalf of Afghan humanitarian parolees but there have been only 220 approvals. Fears about 2024 U.S. elections Rana Azad, an Afghan refugee living in Denver, found work as an aide at a high school. Her brother has not been able to find a job, despite his computer science background. Companies are unwilling to hire him without permanent residency, according to Azad. The process so far has been challenging and filled with paperwork. "We are young. We have so much things we can do in the U.S.," says Azad. "When you don't have any clear status, it's difficult." Rana Azad, an Afghan refugee living in Denver, found work as an aide at a high school. / Credit: Provided by Azad Another fear looms over Azad, too the 2024 presidential election. "Most of us, we have the fear that if Trump is coming," she said. "I don't know how the situation will be. Maybe we will have to get out of this country. We have no ideas but it is a kind of fear. What should we do?" Left behind in Afghanistan For the Afghans who worked for the U.S. government and were left behind, each day their special immigration visa process is not approved is one they live in fear of Taliban retribution. One Afghan who has been living and working in the U.S. since before the Taliban seized power worries about his brother, who worked for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and applied for a special immigration visa at the end of 2020. He has not been able to leave Afghanistan and is still waiting for his visa to be approved. The Afghan and his brother are not being identified by CBS News over concern for their safety. In the meantime, the threat of violence has forced the brother to move to a different neighborhood, and he no longer allows his children to attend school. He said that in 2021, his son was kidnapped on his way to class. The National Directorate of Security intervened and was able to save his son, but in the exchange, one of the kidnappers was killed. The Taliban promised to not seek revenge against those who worked for the U.S., but retribution attacks happen regularly, and there is no longer media around to report on the incidents, said Sayyid. His cousin, a former police officer, was arrested last week. Sayyid's brother fears the same thing will happen to him. "[The U.S.] should take care of the people who are worked for them, right? You cannot leave them to die," Sayyid said. Camilo Montoya-Galvez contributed to this report. Veteran once imprisoned for being gay speaks out Harlan Crow refuses to go into detail on his ties to Clarence Thomas What role does Congress play in managing political conflict? The dilapidated former stable known as "The Bells" at Brenton Point State Park could face demolition following a roof collapse that injured four boys on Monday. Neither the city of Newport nor the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management had updates Tuesday afternoon on the status of the four boys, three of which were injured seriously Monday afternoon after a section of the roof at the former Gilded Age stable collapsed. A press release from the DEM issued hours after the incident, said a section of the roof collapsed under the weight of one of the teenagers, causing both the boy and a slab of concrete about two feet by four feet to fall about 25 feet onto two other boys who were inside the building. DEM said at the time two victims, 15 and 16, were taken by ambulance to Hasbro Childrens Hospital; a third victim, 15 was med-flighted for treatment. The fourth victim, 12, was treated and released at the scene. A photo provided by the R.I. Department of Environmental Management shows the inside of the "The Bells" building at Brenton Point State Park in Newport on Monday, May 29, 2023, after four children were injured at the site. On Tuesday, RIDEM spokesperson Michael Healey said the department has reinforced the existing fencing with newer fencing around the building and added No Trespassing signs. The building had fencing and signs installed around it about 10 years ago, and Healey said they are not aware of any incidents resulting in injury at "The Bells" over the course of those 10 years. Healey said the department has been in discussions with the Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission for about two years to try and get the building taken down. The RIHPHC instructed RIDEM to take mitigation measures, such as creating an archival record of the property and adding interpretive signage to inform people of the buildings history, before the building is officially demolished. What happened at 'The Bells': Three hospitalized after roof collapses at 'The Bells' in Newport What is 'The Bells' "The Bells" is a massive former stable located at the back of Brenton Point State Park off Ocean Drive. Story continues A photo provided by the RI Department Environmental Management shows the section of roof at "The Bells" in Brenton Point State Park in Newport that collapsed Monday, May 29, 2023. The origin of the building dates back to the days of The Reef estate, built by Thomas M. Davis in 1876 as a summer "cottage." The Reef, so named because it overlooked Brenton Reef, changed hands a few times. The mansion was destroyed by fire in 1960 and knocked down in 1963. But the building known as "The Bells" remains. When the state bought The Reef estate in 1969, "The Bells" came with it. While Brenton Point State Park, dedicated in 1974, has undergone changes through the years, the rundown building remained with the area around it becoming more densely wooded, helping to obscure the building from public view. This article originally appeared on Newport Daily News: The Bells in Newport faces demolition following roof collapse, injuries If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission. It isnt summer without a fresh Elizabeth Hurley bikini! The 57-year-old actress has a brand-new style to show off from her Elizabeth Hurley Beach line and its the absolute perfect addition to any warm-weather wardrobe. More from SheKnows Hurley shared the snapshots of her new bathing suit on her Instagram account, enthusiastically noting that shes loving my new Ibiza bikini in my fave Sea Green. The string bikini, in the same dazzling color as the Caribbean, enhanced her sun-kissed glow from a weekend at the Maldives resort, Vakkaru. The simple design showed off her gorgeous curves and she even gave her followers a cheeky view of the back. Her website described the Ibiza bikini top as glorious in a body sculpting Italian Lycra. The bottoms have sexy gold chain detailing and offer moderate coverage. Both are sold separately for $84, or you could try this equally-as-mesmerizing dupe for only $24.99. The color alone will make that golden glow really pop after a day at the beach. Suvimuga Green Lake Bikini Click here to read the full article. Price: $24.99 Buy On Amazon Hurley has always wanted to start a fashion line, but she discovers that working in resort wear was the right place for her. I decided to venture into beachwear not only because Ive always been obsessed with vacation clothes, but also because its an area where women, regardless of shape or size, can either look amazing or really get it wrong, she explained on her website. I wanted to develop resort collections which make women feel fabulous at any age. With her continued success in fashion, Hurley is turning out to be one of the biggest celebrity swimwear influencers, and shes more than earned that title. Story continues Before you go, click here to see celebrity women over 50 whose bikini photos are blowing our minds. Salma Hayek Women Over 50 Who Post the Most Incredible Bikini Photos Launch Gallery: 34 Times Elizabeth Hurleys Sensational & Confident Bikini Snapshots Left Us Speechless Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Prison Cells Today (May 31), Fox 5 New York shared an exclusive interview with human rights attorney Isat Buchanan, the lawyer representing Jamaican Dancehall icon Vybz Kartel. During the conversation, he revealed that his imprisoned client is facing life-threatening health complications. Born Adidja Palmer, Kartel has been behind bars since serving time for a 2011 murder conviction, and while he insists hes innocent, hes now battling another fight with the legal system. After a recent alleged cell phone infraction, the Happy Pum Pum artist is in solitary confinement for 23 hours a day, and Buchanan says the conditions are unbearable. Mr. Palmers illness is actually life-threatening, the attorney said of his client, who suffers from Graves Disease and a heart condition. No air and no water? Damnn they are trying to kill him #VybzKartel pic.twitter.com/rxRmMqAaQa Letty. (@_nomeimporta00) May 31, 2023 Hes in a cell, and if you can picture a brick oven, because thats how those cells are built, the ventilation is next to none, Buchanan claimed. The Pon Di Gaza hitmakers supporters are now concerned about the situation. All over a damn cellphone. A F**KING cellphone, one fan said of the news. Vybz Kartel having life-threatening medical issues is not what I wanted to hear today, another added. Buchanan told the news station he visited his client on Memorial Day (May 29), and the 47-year-old has no air circulation, no water, and a bucket for a toilet. His neck was swollen. If you think of a shirt that is about 18.5 inches in the neck area, you couldnt close the collar on his neck, and thats how bad it is in this moment His face is actually swollen. And one other thing: He always wears glasses; in this condition, that causes his eyes to protrude, Buchanan said of the Kingston, Jamaica native. I wholeheartedly, truly from the depths of my soul, do not wanna hear anything other than good things discussing Vybz Kartel. Not THE Gaza legend because I cannot go for that, a tweet read. Story continues See more messages of support below. Vybz Kartel having life threatening medical issues is not what I wanted to hear today kb (@Kevin_r_416) May 31, 2023 All over a damn cell phone. a FUCKING cell phone Justin right thru me Stan since 2010 (@jrleenash1983) May 31, 2023 Noooo I literally cant imagine a world without vybz kartel we gotta pray for him. C. (@buttterflycee) May 31, 2023 Serious condition, that can make people feel very hot, tremors in hands,eye problems bulges in the gland. he deserves to be treated properly, access to medication & doctor care regularly, ventilation & proper sanitation. The top guy in charge at prison hates him wish him fi dead Haze (@Hayleywhite16g1) May 31, 2023 The greatest artist since Marley, running dancehall from prison. Only in Jamaica. onesinglepurpose (@onesinglepurpo1) May 29, 2023 i wholeheartedly, truly from the depths of my soul do not wanna hear anything other than good things discussing vybz kartel. not THE gaza legend because i cannot go for that. J. (@babyfacexjackie) May 31, 2023 Happy to be part of the 100million streamers worldwide Arab King Kong KSA (@ArabKong_ksa) May 23, 2023 Ill rly air shit out bout him n he supposed to b at my wedding like no let him get his surgery JB! (@galleriadejb) May 31, 2023 hope vybz kartel makes it alive kj (@thekonyjen) May 31, 2023 Vybz Kartel blessed our high school days with good music, legend that one SUPER METRO (@marto254_) May 25, 2023 Sorry how am I just finding out Vybz Kartel is sick??? Oh my gosh Lozz (@LozDior) May 31, 2023 i dont think any artist, of any genre, is seeing vybz kartel in any battle . ever your grace (@StephieeV_) May 22, 2023 Trending Stories HONG KONG, May 31 (Xinhua) -- The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday affirmed Hong Kong's status as a major international financial center in a staff report. The staff report, released by the IMF Board, said Hong Kong has robust institutional frameworks, substantial capital and liquidity buffers, high-quality financial sector regulation, and a well-functioning Linked Exchange Rate System (LERS). It recognizes Hong Kong's strongly recovering economy with post-COVID normalization of economic activities, and also points out that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government is proactively solidifying Hong Kong's status as an international financial center and strengthening impetus for economic growth and competitiveness. Paul Chan, financial secretary of the HKSAR government, said he welcomes the IMF's highly positive evaluation of Hong Kong. "The staff report commends Hong Kong's financial resilience amid the pandemic and challenging external environment, and recognizes the HKSAR government's efforts in bolstering Hong Kong's long-term economic and financial developments," he said. Eddie Yue, chief executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, said he welcomes the IMF's reaffirmation of the robustness and resilience of Hong Kong's banking and financial system. "As pointed out by the IMF, the LERS continues to function smoothly, providing a solid anchor to the economy and financial system," he said. Time 100 Next - Credit: Taylor Hill/FilmMagic/Getty Images Ezra Miller appears to have some guarantee of job security in the DC universe. The Flash director Andy Muschietti has said he wouldnt recast the role of the titular superhero in any sequel or future films, despite numerous controversial allegations against Miller. According to The Playlist, Muschietti made the comments in an upcoming interview on The Discourse podcast alongside his producing partner (and sister) Barbara Muschietti. Andy was adamant that Miller was the best person for the part of Barry Allen/the Flash, and said he wouldnt want to replace them on any future projects he and his sister were involved in. More from Rolling Stone I dont think theres anyone that can play that character as well as they did, Andy said of Miller. The other depictions of the character are great, but this particular vision of the character, they just excelled in doing it. And, as you said, the two Barrys it feels like a character that was made for them. Barbara praised Millers work on the upcoming film, saying, In principal photography, Ezra was brilliant and the most committed and the most professional [actor]. Ezra gave everything for this role physically, creatively, emotionally. They were absolutely supreme. The Flash will finally arrive in theaters June 16, nearly one year after its originally scheduled July 2022 arrival. Warner Bros. decided to push the film as it figured out whether or not to release it following Millers alleged involvement in numerous controversies. As Rolling Stone previously reported, Miller was accused of grooming and brainwashing a number of young people and housing children in a gun-filled Vermont residence. They were also accused of stealing bottles of alcohol from a neighboring home in Vermont, and eventually pleaded guilty to misdemeanor unlawful trespass. Additionally, Miller was arrested several times in Hawaii for a series of alleged public disturbances and assaults. Story continues Amidst the controversies, Miller reportedly met with, and apologized to Warner Bros. execs, and issued a statement saying they would be seeking treatment. Having recently gone through a time of intense crisis, I now understand that I am suffering complex mental health issues and have begun ongoing treatment, Millers statement said. I want to apologize to everyone that I have alarmed and upset with my past behavior. I am committed to doing the necessary work to get back to a healthy, safe and productive stage in my life. Best of Rolling Stone Click here to read the full article. Ireland Baldwin, who became a first-time mama earlier this month after welcoming daughter Holland with her partner Andre Allen Anjos (also known as RAC), is getting real about new motherhood and her journey to get there. Baldwin, who has been open about her intense struggles with anxiety in recent years, shared a lengthy Instagram post about her experience with pregnancy and her new postpartum life. I really struggled in my pregnancy as many of us do, she writes. Not just by puking everywhere. I dont miss that. As someone who suffers tremendously from health anxiety, pregnancy shifted everything into overdrive. She says she hopes to help anyone else out there who may be struggling with their anxiety while pregnant, and as a result may be worried about mom life. Baldwin says she worried constantly while pregnant with Holland. Was my shower too hot? Am I crying too much? Why am I crying again? Do my feet look swollen? Am I even going to make a good mother? Related: Ireland Baldwin says pregnancy is hardespecially when dealing with idiots as family She says reading about countless pregnancy horror stories and watching intense birth videos made her even more anxious about labor and delivery. She said it all changed the moment her daughter was born. Nothing ever mattered until that moment, she wrote. I found it quite sad how women would go out of their way to tell me what was going to happen to my body. How a baby would negatively impact my relationship. How my body would fall apart. My tits would sag to my knees. How Ill never sleep again. Our bodies are different, she continues. No one wins. This isnt a contest. She says that everyones experiences with pregnancy and delivery are unique, and we cant compare someone elses story with how we think our own experiences will unfold. Story continues Related: Hilary Duffs simple, powerful honesty: Pregnancy is hard The delivery was intense but Ive been in worse pain, she said She was born. My fears fled. My heart was full. Ive fallen in love again for a second time. Ive lost loads of sleep but I couldnt care less. Baldwin acknowledged that shes still adjusting to her postpartum bodyand her new Pam Andersons, but shes happy about it. I would birth her 100 more times if I had to, she writes. Bottom line? Dont listen to the noise around you if you find it unhelpful. Dont let people tell you how its going to be, she says. Life is scary and unpredictable and this process was terrifying but its the greatest thing Ive ever done and ever will do. Dont let people scare you. Jeff Kravitz - Getty Images The Succession character Kendall Roy is not exactly any woman's dream guy, but actor Jeremy Strong is definitely a real-life family man. Strong has been married to his wife Emma Wall for seven years, and they share three children together. Here's everything to know about Jeremy Strong's wife, Emma Wall. Who is Emma Wall? Wall hails from Denmark and works primarily as a child psychiatrist. She received her B.A. from Brown University and then attended Oxford University Medical School, followed by a fellowship and residency at Columbia University and Cornell University. Wall stays off social media, but she has worked for the foster care system in Los Angeles and at UCLA as a clinician and teacher. If that weren't enough, Wall is the co-founder of Guest House Productions, and co-directed Guerilla Habeas, which premiered in 2023 on MSNBC's The Turning Point doc series. The documentary follows two lawyers defending immigrants from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) . We started on this film at a time when I think so many of us were really appalled by what was happening in the immigration system, she told Deadline. So we started this in the beginning of 2019, following the Muslim ban, following Trump's zero-tolerance policy that was separating families at the border. And weas so many people, I think, in this countrywere feeling incredibly helpless and hopeless. It felt like these grave injustices, these human rights violations, and we didn't know what to do about it. How did Wall and Strong meet? In 2012, the pair were invited to the same party during Hurricane Sandy, according toThe Guardian. They dated for four years and were married in 2016 at an actual castle in Denmark called Dragsholm Slot, built in 1215. They have homes in both Brooklyn and Copenhagen, buying the latter property during COVID-19 lockdown as a getaway. I love Denmark. I find it a very sane and gentle place. It feels like a refuge for me, Strong has said. Its great to have somewhere thats a docking station after all this work, which I find very enervating and scary and stressful. Story continues Does Jeremy Strong have children with Emma Wall? The couple welcomed their first child, Ingrid, in 2018. They have two more kids, Clara, who was born in 2019, and a third baby born in 2021 whose name has not yet been revealed. Wall told The New Yorker that her husband is great at showing up to be a dad despite the demands of his work. He does a really good job of maintaining what hes doing, but also creating a space for the family and a normal life, she said. In 2019, Strong told GQ that becoming a parent was very stabilizing. My life has changed a lot in the sense that there's some sort of stable center, he said. I never had that beforeI was always just kind of a transient, and work was the only thing. And that feels different now, in a very good way. There's something to come home to. You Might Also Like (Photo by ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images) John Stamos was initially upset at Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen not returning to Fuller House. However, the 59-year-old mended his relationship with the former child stars following the death of Bob Saget. What happened between John Stamos and The Olsen Twins? During an appearance on the And Thats What You REALLY Missed podcast (via People), Stamos admitted that he was angry that the twin actors hadnt wanted to appear on the Netflix reboot. Stamos notes they didnt see the actors much and when they passed on returning to the show he wasnt happy. Watch Full House Now The twins moved to New York. And I gotta tell you, one of the only good things to come out of Bobs [death] Well Mary-Kate and Ashley, we didnt see them much, said Stamos. I mean, we stayed in touch a little bit, but Bob really did. And they were so great. You hear rumors, Oh, they hated their childhood, or they hated being on the show or whatever. When I did Fuller House, they didnt wanna come back. And I was angry for a minute, and that got out. However, following the shocking passing of Saget who Stamos credits with being very instrumental in keeping the cast together throughout the years Stamos said he and the Olsen sisters eventually reconciled during a chat at his home. But they were, like, We loved our childhood. We loved being with you. We miss Bob. They came over to my house, Stamos said. They brought a pork chop and sage. I dont know why, but thank you? It was a frozen pork chop, so that was really nice. So we stayed very close. The post John Stamos: Bob Sagets Death Helped Me Reconnect With The Olsen Twins appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. Two local women-owned retailers are expanding to the Northlands Zona Rosa this summer. Annie Austen is a Kansas City-based accessories and hand-picked vintage decor retailer online, co-op and pop-up. It will open its first brick-and-mortar location at 7116 N.W. 86th Terrace on July 1. Annie Austen, founder of a new retail store opening in Zona Rosa. Annie Austen Three siblings are behind the business, which launched in late 2020 Matthew Callicotte, Lucie Callicotte and Annie Austen. Matthew, a former pipeliner, does online order fulfillment and production including putting beads on silk thread. Lucie, an attorney, is vintage curator extraordinaire in accessories, purses and home decor, and will oversee day-to-day operations at the new store. I started the business, and my siblings came in whenever I needed help, Austen said. We realized we could enhance the jewelry experience ensuring quality while maintaining affordability. It really is about sustainability. We want our jewelry to be around for a long time and from the vintage perspective there are a lot of things that can be given new life. We are just having so much fun. The company donates 5% of profits to Feeding America. Annie Austen is a Kansas City-based accessories and hand-picked vintage decor retailer. Annie Austen Shop Len, a sister concept to Lucca Collection boutique in the River Market, plans a July 15 opening at 7207 N.W. 86th Terrace. Described as a chic and contemporary womens boutique, it offers customers (21 and older) a free glass of champagne. Taylor Duryea founded Lucca Collection clothing and accessories shop in 2015, offering everything from casual wear to formals. It also has jewelry, shoes, handbags and gift items. Shop Len will have similar merchandise. Duryea grew up in Liberty and lives near Zona Rosa. She wanted to have a shop that was more accessible to Northlanders. Its very modern, its very trendy and our quality is amazing for the price point. And unique compared to things you are going to find elsewhere, she said. The shops are named after her children son Lucca, 8, and daughter Lennon, 3. Both retailers have a one-year lease but hope to extend their leases if the locations are popular. Zona Rosa is an open-air, mixed-use urban town center at the northwest corner of Interstate 29 and Barry Road. Kelly Ripa and Andy Cohen Gregory Pace/Shutterstock; Stephen Lovekin/Shutterstock They share everything! Kelly Ripa recalled Andy Cohen sending her a surprising message while at work and the NSFW content left her in an awkward position. So, my work iPad is open and Im sitting here reading through my notes and [Live executive producer Michael Gelman] is over my shoulder trying to show me something, Ripa, 52, said during the Wednesday, May 31, episode of her Lets Talk Off Camera podcast, in which Cohen, 54, was a guest. And suddenly a completely erect penis pops up. She continued: Lets call him Bobby. It just says, Bobbys ck, and its, like, a text from Andy Cohen, Bobbys ck.' The Bravo exec, for his part, explained that he was in Boston for his book tour when an amazing couple presented themselves to him and proposed getting intimate. I had already texted Kelly the night before saying, I think Im going to lose my virginity [to a woman] tomorrow in Boston,' Cohen added. While the Missouri native did meet with them for a drink, the threesome ultimately didnt happen," but Cohen noted that he isn't opposed to the idea in the future. Ripa, meanwhile, said that she and husband Mark Consuelos worry their longtime pal will meet serial killers and put himself in danger. As for Cohen being interested in forming a throuple with anyone from any Bravo franchise, the Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen host wouldn't get specific because of an "HR issue" but replied: A couple not from the Housewives universe. Being open and comfortable talking about their respective sex lives is nothing new for Ripa and Cohen, who have been friends for years. In September 2022, the Days of Our Lives alum revealed that she and her hubby, 52, had sex in the Bravo producers home. During a game of Have You Schtupped There on WWHL, Ripa confirmed that she and Consuelos had gotten busy in a public bathroom, on a boat and on the set of All My Children, where they met in the 1990s. When Cohen asked if the pair had ever done it in his house, Ripa confirmed that they had, clarifying that it happened in his vacation home in Fire Island, New York. Story continues That was a day trip! Cohen exclaimed. Ripa then quipped that she felt it was OK to have sex in the house because it was a rental. I figured I wasnt desecrating anything that you own, she said, laughing. Since tying the knot in 1996, Ripa and the Riverdale actor have been open about discussing their romantic life with their BFF or otherwise. I think we found each other at the right time in our lives. We were really young, not that thats the right time. We were really pliable to each other, she explained during an April 2020 SiriusXM interview with Cohen and Bruce Bozzi. We really learned each other well. With that comes a certain level of comfort and confidence and experimentation and just fun. Consuelos, for his part, added: I think you check off all the boxes for me. Gotham - Getty Images Kendall Jenner was the epitome of luxury in her recent Instagram post. The supermodel posed by the water during her time in France serving old money vibes in a teeny tiny triangle thong bikini under a sheer navy maxi dress. Her accessories made the look. Kenny added black oval sunglasses, gold earrings, and a large woven tote bag. Her hair was held up effortlessly with a claw clip. Kendall felt the love from her fam in the comment section "That's my baby," commented her big sis Khloe. "So pretty," wrote Kylie. Kylie has also been showing off her France 'fits on Insta, too, with a stunning take on the 'expensive' style. Ky stepped out to lunch wearing a gorgeous 1950s-esque tea-length gown with a plunging halter top by Bottega Veneta. She stepped into a pair of pointed-toe pumps and accessorized with black tinted sunnies, chunky gold earrings, and a black Bottega clutch to complete the look. Her hair was tossed into a deep side part. MEGA - Getty Images Right next door to France in Monaco was Kendall's BF Bad Bunny who attended the F1 Grand Prix. He wore an incredible optical illusion collared top by Jean Paul Gaultier, tucked into gray pants. Eric Alonso - Getty Images Kenny knows how to do bikinis right. We always fall in love with her and her fashion sense all over again whenever she posts a new pic. This summer is all about that old-money aesthetic for our fav celebs, so we're taking notes. If you loved Kendall's French vacation look, here are some similar styles for you to add to your cart. You Might Also Like Les Twins Les Twins are two of the most dynamic dancers in the world. This confidence is directly attached to the high level of preparation that Larry and Laurent Bourgeois have put into their craft. The Sarcelles, France-bred identical twins continue to leave their mark in choreography, producing, modeling, designing, and the creative direction space. Dancing has always been a source of joy for the highly skilled duo. Growing up with nine siblings created a unique way of life. Les Twins learned to dance from other breakers without formal training while teaching themselves classic ballet techniques. The choreographers are excited to bring the same joy they get from dancing to the rest of the world. After years of philanthropic efforts, the duo has connected with Kids Write Network (KWN), an award-winning youth program using art, music, and dance to help children and young adults improve coping skills, build self-confidence, and overcome mental health obstacles. When asked about the partnership, KWNs Helen Georgaklis asserted, We have been working with children for over a decade. We have used art and music. I was absolutely floored when I saw Les Twins at a workshop in Montreal. It blew my mind because I saw that what they were doing was similar to what we do. They take people out of a negative situation and allow them to believe that they have the freedom to be and do whatever they want to do. There is no one else in the world that could do this like Les Twins. The main inspiration for two of the worlds most famous dancers comes from their mom. Les Twins exclaimed, People would see videos of our mom singing and dancing while she was cleaning the bank at work and be so excited by it. They all said how well she danced and how much joy it brought, and [we] thought about that just being a normal day for mom at the house. We always wanted to bring that joy when we dance to someone else. Their innovative partnership with KWN allows them to help children use dance to overcome challenges in their own lives. Thanks to their love of the art form and work ethic, the sensational duo has famously connected with stars like Michael Jackson, Drake, Kanye West and, most notably, Beyonce. Story continues Amid their run on the highly anticipated Renaissance World Tour, Les Twins spoke with REVOLT about their upbringing, new partnership with KWN, and impressive careers. Dive into the exciting exclusive below. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Larry & Laurent Bourgeois (@officiallestwins) You two are the youngest of nine children. How did you find a way to stand out at home and within the world? Laurent Bourgeois: Thats a question, bro! I have to tell the truth. I wanted to say thank you because you all always ask great questions and make people feel comfortable. You know, it is like you have to be perfect for everyone. I am everyones arms, everyones head, and everyones legs. Larry Bourgeois: Man! I know you like to skip the questions! I will answer. It was tough. I used to watch TV and say, Wow, now thats a family. I am writing a book with my brother now about our upbringing. We do not choose our families. When you have a huge family, heart matters. When your heart feels safe, you are OK. The good people in my family who work for the law and have a beautiful family rarely talk to my mom. They only reach out to her or me when they need help. Its crazy because the people who have had issues with the law are the sweetest to my mom and never ask for anything. I love my family but you know, growing up, you had to choose who you want to be. I know I need to care for my mother, twin, and mom. The rest, they are grown, and I cannot help everyone. Big families are beautiful, and you learn a lot. Talk about your partnership with KWN. How is it helping to reduce stigma around mental health for the youth? Laurent: Nothing we do right now does not help our community. Every step I take in my life is to add to the future I want. I want to share and give. I never wanted to do anything to make myself look good. I look good because the fans have put me in this place. I treat it like Muhammad Ali. When I was 14, I told everyone I was the best in the world. I was not trying to be rude. I was saying that because if I did not, who would? I feel like everyone is the greatest. My favorite people are the ones who believe that they can make it. I am tired of hearing people talk about their goals being impossible. We have been performing with some of the greatest dancers in the world. Helping the youth with mental health has finally made me feel like I am helping the right people. This program has helped me feel like I am finally impacting the people who need it the most. Larry: The people who have been looking for Les Twins have never seen the real Les Twins. I know we are going to help the community. People do not understand how hard it was growing up and keeping control of our mental health. I used to not believe people when they told me that I had saved them with my dancing. I used to think dancing saved nobody. Now, I realize that I helped myself with dance. We taught people how to be the greatest with dance. If I can keep myself with dance, then I can save others. Me and Laurent used to sleep in a shelter in New York. We had one backpack to share, and we used to ask people to stay at their homes. We made it with dance, and there is absolutely nothing that I would change about our life. This program allows me to use my gift for the people that really need it. The people who need it only know once they see it. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Larry & Laurent Bourgeois (@officiallestwins) Aside from it being your job, do you all still dance for your mental health? Laurent: I am always dancing. We have been around galas, charities, and other events worldwide as a group. I see so many charities bring athletes for mental health and share their life and motivational speeches. They come with empty bodies and make people play games, but it does nothing. Our workshops help people feel something and start to grow toward who they want to be. There is a message behind it, and we use it to show people that you can do anything you want. You know, working with family is tough, too. We show people that groups dont always have to break up. I hope and pray my brother and I stay together forever. I do not feel that with any other artists but someone like Johnny Depp. I remember when he went to the childrens hospital as Jack Sparrow and put on a performance for the whole hospital. It was amazing. Larry: Yes! That time helped me feel like we were not the only ones. We had been doing this forever but stopped because hearing the unfortunate stories was tough. It was tough to think that people requested to dance with us as their last wish. I dont know that those kids knew how tough it was to attach yourself to a child who soon passed away. I thought like that until the pandemic and realized I never put myself in their shoes. Looking back at your Criminalz Crew days, did you ever think you all would make it this far with dance? Laurent: It is still here! They are the best crew in the world. Most of the people on the team were not dancing before us. People believed in us to help mold them however we needed to. Outside of me and my brother, I have never seen anyone dance like this. We were winning competitions across the world, so much so that people were saying it was cheating. We know how to put our life inside of our movements. I show people how I feel through my dances. Dance feels like therapy but [through] movement. It is beautiful because people sometimes even start crying while they dance. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Larry & Laurent Bourgeois (@officiallestwins) You are now on the Renaissance World Tour with Beyonce. What have you learned from working with her over the last decade that helps you stay balanced in the era of social media? Larry: We could literally be onstage with Beyonce for a year and only post on our Instagram Stories about mermaids. We know how to protect ourselves. For Les Twins, it feels great, and we only work with family. Trust me and seeing that our family is still on the stage is great. Celebrations outside Nagoya District Court in Japan on Tuesday after the ruling that the bar on same-sex marriage is unconstitutional (AP) A court has ruled that Japans policy against same-sex marriage is unconstitutional a decision welcomed as a step towards marriage equality in the only G7 nation with no legal protection for same-sex unions. Nagoya District Courts decision was the second against same-sex marriage out of four cases over the past two years, and is likely to add to pressure to change the law in a country in which the constitution says marriage is between a man and a woman. Tuesday's ruling was greeted with cheers from the activists and supporters waving rainbow flags outside the court. Asato Yamada, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said the court's ruling said clearly that not allowing same-sex marriage violates the guarantee of equal rights under Article 14 of the constitution. It's a major step toward achieving marriage equality, he said. Opinion polls show some 70% of the public supports same-sex marriage, but it is opposed by the the conservative ruling Liberal Democratic Party of prime minister Fumio Kishida. More than 300 Japanese municipalities, covering some 65% of the population, allow same-sex couples to enter partnership agreements but these are limited in scope; partners can't inherit each other's assets or have parental rights to each other's children. Hospital visits are not guaranteed. Chief cabinet secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a press conference that the government did not believe the civil code and marriage laws were unconstitutional. With regard to issues surrounding the introduction of same-sex marriage, we believe it is important to pay close attention to the opinions of all parts of the public, he said. While Japan is considered relatively liberal, the LGBT+ community has been largely invisible because of conservative attitudes. Taiwan became the first place in Asia to legalise same-sex marriages in 2019. A new law would have to be passed in Japan before same-sex marriages could actually take place. Story continues The government pledged to pass a law promoting understanding of LGBT+ people before hosting the G7 summit earlier this month, but opposition from conservatives delayed it so much that a watered-down version was only submitted to parliament the day before the summit. Japan has come under increasing pressure to change, both from other G7 members but also from economic lobbies, with businesses arguing that greater diversity is needed for international competitiveness. LGBT+ activists and their supporters have increased their efforts to achieve an anti-discrimination law since a former Kishida aide said in February that he wouldn't want to live next to LGBT+ people and that citizens would flee Japan if same-sex marriage were allowed. Reuters and Associated Press contributed to this report Nordstrom Inc., impacted by declining revenues and charges associated with the withdrawal from Canada, reported a net loss of $205 million, or $1.27 per diluted share compared to a profit of $20 million, or $0.13 a share, in the year-ago period. However, excluding charges related to the wind down in Canada, the company reported adjusted earnings per share of $0.07. More from WWD For the first quarter ended April 29, the Seattle-based retailer recorded $309 million of estimated pre-tax charges related to the wind-down of Canadian operations, consistent with its previously estimated range of $300 million to $350 million. The first quarter 2023 results include Canadian operations through March 2, when it discontinued support for Nordstrom Canada. The company is early in the wind-down process and the entire shutdown of Nordstroms Canada operations six department stores, seven Rack units and e-commerce should be completed this month. Nordstroms loss before interest and tax was $259 million in the first quarter of 2023, compared with EBIT of $73 million during the same period in fiscal 2022. Adjusted EBIT of $50 million in the first quarter of 2023 excluded one-time charges of $309 million related to the wind-down of Canadian operations. Adjusted EBIT of $32 million in the first quarter of 2022 excluded a $51 million gain on the sale of the companys interest in a corporate office building and a $10 million impairment charge related to costs associated with the wind-down of Trunk Club. Net sales decreased 11.6 percent versus the same period in fiscal 2022, including a 175 basis point negative impact from the wind-down of Canadian operations, and gross merchandise value decreased 11.9 percent. Story continues By division, Nordstrom banner net sales decreased 11.4 percent and GMV decreased 11.8 percent. Net sales for Nordstrom Rack fell 11.9 percent. Erik Nordstrom We are pleased with the progress were making against the key priorities we laid out for 2023 as we continue to enhance our overall customer experience, improve Nordstrom Rack performance, increase inventory productivity and optimize our supply chain operations, Erik Nordstrom, chief executive officer, said in a statement Wednesday. Were encouraged by our momentum, especially given the uncertain macroeconomic environment. We remain focused on executing with agility and delivering long-term value to our shareholders. Our focus on these key priorities allows us to better serve our customers through great brands at great prices at the Rack and more product newness and better flow across our banners, while also positioning us for more profitable growth, added Pete Nordstrom, president and chief brand officer. Were grateful to our team for their hard work and focus, and were excited to serve our customers with new and fresh selections from the best brands at our upcoming Anniversary Sale. In after market trading, Nordstroms share price rose 7 percent, or $1.08, to $16.38, after being down 6 percent at market close. Investors apparently reacted favorably to the commentary on improving operations and the adjusted earnings per share of 7 cents last quarter compared to a 6-cent loss per share a year ago. Most categories in the U.S. were down in the first quarter versus 2022, which benefited from strong pent-up demand for a return to occasions after the pandemic. Active was the strongest category, while beauty and mens apparel performed above average. In a conference call with retail analysts and investors, Pete Nordstrom said designer was the toughest category. Trends decelerated after strong demand during the pandemic, but designer sales remain above pre-pandemic levels. Theyre normalizing after a big run-up in the last two years. The high-end customer is resilient but also cautious. Mens dress wear was the number-one volume driver. Erik Nordstrom in the call said Customer demand continues to be pressured under the current economic backdrop. He cited the three key priorities for attaining improved profitability the first, improving Rack where the penetration of top-performing strategic brands is growing and the off-price division continues to open stores. Twenty units are being opened this year. The second priority cited was managing with leaner and more current inventories for improved sell-through which results in gross margin increases. The third priority is improving the supply chain via continuing reduced transportation costs and shorter delivery times to customers. Digital sales decreased 17.4 percent compared with the same period in fiscal 2022. The company reported that eliminating store fulfillment for Nordstrom Rack digital orders during the third quarter of fiscal 2022 and sunsetting Trunk Club earlier in fiscal 2022 negatively impacted first-quarter digital sales by about 800 basis points. Digital sales represented 36 percent of total sales during the quarter. Ending inventory decreased 7.8 percent compared with the same period in fiscal 2022, versus an 11.6 percent decrease in sales. For this year, Nordstrom expects revenues to decline, including retail sales and credit card revenues, by 4 to 6 percent versus fiscal 2022, including an about 250 basis point negative impact from the wind-down of Canadian operations and an approximately 130 basis point positive impact from the 53rd week. At the end of the quarter, Nordstrom Inc. has $1.4 billion in available liquidity and what executives described as a strong balance sheet. Best of WWD Click here to read the full article. Vincent Cazeneuve is pictured outside his studio in Songbai Village of Beiping Town, Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, May 29, 2023. Vincent Cazeneuve's studio, a two-story wooden house surrounded by lacquer trees, is located deep in the Daba Mountains in Beiping Town of Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. Fascinated by lacquer art, the French artist came to China 15 years ago with the aim of finding the suitable species of lacquer tree to make lacquer artworks. He had visited many places in China, and finally settled down in Chengkou County of Chongqing where the species of high yield and superior quality of lacquer trees grow. In recent years, Chengkou County has promoted the development of lacquer tree plantation, attracting more and more people like Vincent to do lacquer art research and creation here. To make his works more diversified and attractive, Vincent has creatively integrated the traditional lacquer art with traditional manual skills like cloth weaving and bamboo split knitting. As to the future, Vincent hopes to stay in Chengkou County and learn more about traditional Chinese culture to create more lacquer art works with better textures. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) Vincent Cazeneuve examines a piece of polished lacquer artwork outside his studio in Songbai Village of Beiping Town, Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, May 29, 2023. Vincent Cazeneuve's studio, a two-story wooden house surrounded by lacquer trees, is located deep in the Daba Mountains in Beiping Town of Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. Fascinated by lacquer art, the French artist came to China 15 years ago with the aim of finding the suitable species of lacquer tree to make lacquer artworks. He had visited many places in China, and finally settled down in Chengkou County of Chongqing where the species of high yield and superior quality of lacquer trees grow. In recent years, Chengkou County has promoted the development of lacquer tree plantation, attracting more and more people like Vincent to do lacquer art research and creation here. To make his works more diversified and attractive, Vincent has creatively integrated the traditional lacquer art with traditional manual skills like cloth weaving and bamboo split knitting. As to the future, Vincent hopes to stay in Chengkou County and learn more about traditional Chinese culture to create more lacquer art works with better textures. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) Vincent Cazeneuve works at his studio in Songbai Village of Beiping Town, Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, May 29, 2023. Vincent Cazeneuve's studio, a two-story wooden house surrounded by lacquer trees, is located deep in the Daba Mountains in Beiping Town of Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. Fascinated by lacquer art, the French artist came to China 15 years ago with the aim of finding the suitable species of lacquer tree to make lacquer artworks. He had visited many places in China, and finally settled down in Chengkou County of Chongqing where the species of high yield and superior quality of lacquer trees grow. In recent years, Chengkou County has promoted the development of lacquer tree plantation, attracting more and more people like Vincent to do lacquer art research and creation here. To make his works more diversified and attractive, Vincent has creatively integrated the traditional lacquer art with traditional manual skills like cloth weaving and bamboo split knitting. As to the future, Vincent hopes to stay in Chengkou County and learn more about traditional Chinese culture to create more lacquer art works with better textures. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) Vincent Cazeneuve plays the shakuhachi flute at his studio in Songbai Village of Beiping Town, Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, May 29, 2023. Vincent Cazeneuve's studio, a two-story wooden house surrounded by lacquer trees, is located deep in the Daba Mountains in Beiping Town of Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. Fascinated by lacquer art, the French artist came to China 15 years ago with the aim of finding the suitable species of lacquer tree to make lacquer artworks. He had visited many places in China, and finally settled down in Chengkou County of Chongqing where the species of high yield and superior quality of lacquer trees grow. In recent years, Chengkou County has promoted the development of lacquer tree plantation, attracting more and more people like Vincent to do lacquer art research and creation here. To make his works more diversified and attractive, Vincent has creatively integrated the traditional lacquer art with traditional manual skills like cloth weaving and bamboo split knitting. As to the future, Vincent hopes to stay in Chengkou County and learn more about traditional Chinese culture to create more lacquer art works with better textures. (Xinhua/Chu Jiayin) Vincent Cazeneuve works at his studio in Songbai Village of Beiping Town, Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, May 29, 2023. Vincent Cazeneuve's studio, a two-story wooden house surrounded by lacquer trees, is located deep in the Daba Mountains in Beiping Town of Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. Fascinated by lacquer art, the French artist came to China 15 years ago with the aim of finding the suitable species of lacquer tree to make lacquer artworks. He had visited many places in China, and finally settled down in Chengkou County of Chongqing where the species of high yield and superior quality of lacquer trees grow. In recent years, Chengkou County has promoted the development of lacquer tree plantation, attracting more and more people like Vincent to do lacquer art research and creation here. To make his works more diversified and attractive, Vincent has creatively integrated the traditional lacquer art with traditional manual skills like cloth weaving and bamboo split knitting. As to the future, Vincent hopes to stay in Chengkou County and learn more about traditional Chinese culture to create more lacquer art works with better textures. (Xinhua/Chu Jiayin) Vincent Cazeneuve and villagers lacquer the artworks at his studio in Songbai Village of Beiping Town, Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, May 29, 2023. Vincent Cazeneuve's studio, a two-story wooden house surrounded by lacquer trees, is located deep in the Daba Mountains in Beiping Town of Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. Fascinated by lacquer art, the French artist came to China 15 years ago with the aim of finding the suitable species of lacquer tree to make lacquer artworks. He had visited many places in China, and finally settled down in Chengkou County of Chongqing where the species of high yield and superior quality of lacquer trees grow. In recent years, Chengkou County has promoted the development of lacquer tree plantation, attracting more and more people like Vincent to do lacquer art research and creation here. To make his works more diversified and attractive, Vincent has creatively integrated the traditional lacquer art with traditional manual skills like cloth weaving and bamboo split knitting. As to the future, Vincent hopes to stay in Chengkou County and learn more about traditional Chinese culture to create more lacquer art works with better textures. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) Vincent Cazeneuve examines polished lacquer artworks outside his studio in Songbai Village of Beiping Town, Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, May 29, 2023. Vincent Cazeneuve's studio, a two-story wooden house surrounded by lacquer trees, is located deep in the Daba Mountains in Beiping Town of Chengkou County, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. Fascinated by lacquer art, the French artist came to China 15 years ago with the aim of finding the suitable species of lacquer tree to make lacquer artworks. He had visited many places in China, and finally settled down in Chengkou County of Chongqing where the species of high yield and superior quality of lacquer trees grow. In recent years, Chengkou County has promoted the development of lacquer tree plantation, attracting more and more people like Vincent to do lacquer art research and creation here. To make his works more diversified and attractive, Vincent has creatively integrated the traditional lacquer art with traditional manual skills like cloth weaving and bamboo split knitting. As to the future, Vincent hopes to stay in Chengkou County and learn more about traditional Chinese culture to create more lacquer art works with better textures. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) The Defense Department said the latest shipments will bring the total value of US security assistance to Ukraine to $37.6 billion since Russia's February 2022 invasion The United States announced a new $300 million arms package for Ukraine on Wednesday, including air defense systems and tens of millions of rounds of ammunition, but warned Kyiv that US weaponry should not be used to attack within Russia. "We have been very clear with the Ukrainians privately -- weve certainly been clear publicly -- that we do not support attacks inside Russia. We do not enable and we do not encourage attacks inside Russia," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters. The Defense Department said the latest shipments will bring the total value of US security assistance to Ukraine to $37.6 billion since Russia's February 2022 launch of the invasion. "The United States will continue to work with its allies and partners to provide Ukraine with capabilities to meet its immediate battlefield needs and longer-term security assistance requirements," the Pentagon said in a statement. The United States has been leading an unprecedented effort by NATO and other allied countries to supply Ukraine with weaponry and other aid. The latest arms shipments come as Ukraine prepares a counter-offensive aimed at driving Russian forces back from swaths of occupied territory in the east and south of the country. The assistance also comes after a spate of attacks made in shadowy circumstances on targets inside Russia itself, including an unprecedented barrage of drone attacks on Moscow. Kirby said the United States has laid out its ground rules to Ukraine. We don't tell them where to strike. We don't tell them where not to strike, he said. Ultimately, President (Volodymyr) Zelensky and his military commanders decide what they're going to do. However, "we certainly dont want to see attacks inside Russia that are being propagated, that are being conducted, using US-supplied equipment." Kirby said that despite the growing tensions over the issue, the White House remains confident that Ukraine will keep its promise not to use US-built F-16 warplanes -- set to be supplied by European countries -- against targets beyond Ukrainian borders. Story continues "We have gotten that assurance at various levels," Kirby said. Kirby said that while Washington is fullheartedly backing the Ukrainian effort to defeat the Russian invasion, it wants to avoid situations that "suck in the West and NATO and the United States" and to "avoid World War III." The Pentagon said the $300 million package includes munitions for Patriot air defense systems, AIM-7 air defense missiles, Avenger air defense systems and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles. Also part of the package is ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), 155mm and 105mm artillery rounds, 105mm tank ammunition and Zuni aircraft rockets. The United States is also sending more than 30 million rounds of small arms ammunition to Ukraine, the Pentagon said. cl-sms/nro We talked to Sophie Michell, a Barbados-based chef, who helped source the cheese and style the set. Sarah Shatz/HBO After four seasons, Succession has finally come to an endand if youre anything like me, youre probably feeling a lot of feelings. Well leave most of the finales details a mystery, but theres one thing we want to talk about: the food-centered scene that takes place in the Barbados beach home of Caroline Collingwood, AKA Logan Roys ex-wife, and Kendall, Shiv, and Romans mom. Without spoiling any major plot points, the three siblings gather in their moms kitchen for some late-night nosh during the final episode. Turns out, every detail was carefully planned by Succession writers and brought to life by Sophie Michell, a Barbados-based chef and restaurateur. According to Michell, working as a food stylist on the episode involved stocking Carolines kitchen with enough ingredients for multiple takes of the infamous Meal Fit for a King smoothie. The cast could add whatever they wanted to the smoothie, and one of the toughest tasks was filling the vacation home kitchen pantry with believable ingredients. Normally as food stylists we make food look beautiful, but this was the opposite, Michell tells us. Lady Caroline, while shes an aristocrat and has money, is a bit tight and not into food. Along with making all the food look a bit thrifty and oldshoutout to the frozen bread ends Shiv added to Kendalls smoothieMichell tried to find authentic U.K. foods, including the special cheese Carolines husband Peter kept in the fridge (yes, the one Roman playfully licked multiple times during the episode). The shows writers specifically chose Isle of Mull Cheddar, which Michell describes as a strong vintage cheddar from the Isle of Mull in Scotland. While Isle of Mull is a well-known cheese in the United Kingdom and can even be found in U.S. specialty shops, it was close to impossible to source on the island of Barbados. According to Michell, the countrys only cheese producer is Hatchmans Dairy, based in the parish of St. Michael. Otherwise, Its very hard to get good quality cheese in Barbados, says Michell. Its just not a place where people come to eat artisanal cheese. Isle of Mull Cheddar was especially tough to source: Apparently, Michell and her team went all over the island to find it, and a shop on the south coast agreed to order it. Story continues She purchased an entire wheel, which was likely priceythe cheese has sold for as much as $44/lb at Murrays Cheese in New York City. Its definitely not a cheese youd want licked by someone, especially if you brought it all the way from Scotland, Michell says. While Roman ended up licking basically the entire wheel during the 8-10 takes, Michell says she saved a bit so they could enjoy it behind the scenes. If you can get your hands on some Isle of Mull yourself, you can go one of two routes. Lady Caroline would have it with Branston pickle chutney, since its such a strong cheddar and could handle the acidity, Michell says. For a more gourmet take, try pairing the cheddar with sliced pears and apples. It also makes an amazing grilled cheese with English mustard, sweet chutney, and sourdough bread, Michell says. [Source] The Senate of the Philippines has approved a bill to grant Filipino citizenship to Canadian vlogger Kyle Douglas Jennerman. Jennerman, who is behind the YouTube channel BecomingFilipino, now awaits President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to sign House Bill 7185 into law to officially become a Filipino. On Monday, the senate unanimously approved the bill, which was passed from the House of Representatives, during a third and final reading. Jennerman took to Instagram to celebrate the news. I couldn't be more excited. Being 35 years old right now... in the prime of my life. I am filled with so much inspiration and motivation. So much love! Being immersed and connected with the Filipino community both here in the country and around the world. It just fills me with so much optimism... the positive things we can do together. I am so grateful. The things people shared about #BecomingFilipino in Senate yesterday... it was beyond overwhelming. I need a few days to reflect right now. More from NextShark: Biden admin threatens nationwide TikTok ban unless Chinese owners sell their shares https://www.instagram.com/p/Cs2g-o2Sa98/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MmJiY2I4NDBkZg== Jennerman, who is more popularly known as Kulas, has amassed over a million subscribers on his YouTube channel, where he has documented his adventures in the Philippines since 2013. From trying exotic food to speaking fluent Tagalog, Jennerman has gained appreciation for Filipino culture through immersion. More from NextShark: Meet the Indian CEO of the Nevada Clown Motel That Will Give You Nightmares He really wants to be a Filipino. And he is not some fair-weather friend who loves us only for our scenic spots and hospitality, but would turn a blind eye to our identity, culture, and our language. He freely chose to enter into our world, Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, who co-sponsored the bill, told Inquirer.net. Jennerman meets the countrys criteria for naturalization. He has lived in the country for at least 10 years, and he also demonstrates proficiency in English and Filipino. Story continues More from NextShark: City of Los Angeles designates September 17 as Squid Game Day You have already done so much to promote our country and our culture to Filipinos and foreign nationals alike. We look forward to your future contributions as you champion the country that you now call your home, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said. Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! Japanese Kirby superfan flexes her massive collection of plushies The Middle East and North Africa regions cinema star is rising across every aspect of the chain from production to exhibition to streaming. Fresh energy has been injected into the sector by the arrival of Saudi Arabia on the scene following the lifting of its cinema ban in 2017 as part of its 2030 Vision diversifying the countrys economy away from oil. More from Deadline Neighboring Qatar, one of the only stable major sources of funding for film in the region for more than a decade, also continues to play a vital role via the Doha Film Institute. Its grants program, year-round training initiatives and springtime talent incubator Qumra have supported more than 750 short, features and series projects from 78 countries over the past decade. The body was out in force at Cannes this year having supported films across Official Selection and the parallel sections, including Palme dOr contenders About Dry Grasses, Club Zero and Banel And Adama; Un Certain Regard titles The Mother Of All Lies, If Only I Could Hibernate and Hounds as well as Cannes Critics winner Tiger Stripes. Our system and its ecosystem have been in place for a long time and have proven to be a success on many levels, said DFI CEO Fatma Hassan Alremaihi. We love what we do and were very passionate about it. Our main focus is the filmmakers. Alremaihi welcomes the creation of similar development and support schemes in Saudi Arabia as it builds a cinema ecosystem from scratch. We get 500 films submitted to a cycle and we cannot fund 500 films so its great to know that the filmmakers have other options and other outlets in the region because its very hard otherwise, she said. Story continues She points to the network of state film institutions across Europe and the way European filmmakers tap into different funding schemes to finance their films and says she would love it if a similar ecosystem could grow up across MENA. Alremaihi was speaking to Deadline in Cannes just one month after the first physical edition of Qumra since 2019, following three online editions due to the pandemic. It was amazing to have everyone back and that great vibe, she said. Alremaihi was in Cannes with right-hand woman Hanaa Issa, director of film funding and programs, as well as Palestinian director Elia Suleiman, who is artistic advisor for Qumra. The team are already in talks over the cohort of Qumra Masters for the events 10th edition in 2024. These leading professionals attend the event to give a career masterclass as well as to mentor some of the attendees and have included Nuri Bilge Ceylan, Alice Rohrwacher, Claire Denis, Lynne Ramsay and Christopher Hampton in recent years. After last years exclusively US and UK cohort, Suleiman hinted he hoped to appoint at least one or two of the Masters out of the MENA region in 2024 while emphasizing that the final line-up always depends on talent availability. As per its tradition, the DFI also unveiled the recipients for its spring 2023 grants round while in Cannes. The latest round comprised 29 projects from 18 countries including Algeria, Bahrain, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Egypt, Lebanon, Mongolia, Morocco, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Sudan and Tunisia. Feature projects in the mix include Algerian filmmaker Sofia Djamas A Quarter to Thursday In Algiers, Tunisian director Mehdi M. Barsaouis Aicha and Morad Mostafas Aisha Cant Fly Away Anymore. All three features will go into production in the coming months. Our Spring Grants 2023 reinforces our continued commitment to filmmakers globally who have once again impressed us with the diversity and depth of the original themes they are exploring in their stories, said Alremaihi. Full list of 2023 Spring Grants projects and synopses (provided by the DFI) MENA Feature Narrative Development Kohl & Cardamom (Egypt, Sweden, Qatar) Dir. Fady Atallah Set in a small Egyptian town in the late 1980s, 14-year-old Abdullah faces a nerve-wracking challenge when he agrees with his father not to cause trouble for five days in return for being able to attend a concert by the then-rising superstar Mohamed Mounir. Rabies (Lebanon, Qatar) Dir. Sandra Tabet A history professor obsesses over the unresolved Lebanese civil war while struggling to mend her fragile relationship with her son. To Bled or Not to Bled (France, Algeria, Qatar) Dir. Azedine Kasri Dali wants to live the Algerian dream but a chance meeting with a woman changes everything. MENA Feature Narrative Production A Quarter to Thursday in Algiers (Algeria, France, Belgium, Qatar) Dir. Sofia Djama Three friends, disillusioned with the demonstrations shaking the city of Algiers, embark on a risky mission. Aicha (Tunisia, France, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) Dir Mehdi M. Barsaoui Explores how far one can go to break free from their past. Aisha Cant Fly Away Anymore (Egypt, Tunisia, Qatar) Dir. Morad Mostafa The underworld of African migrant society in Cairo and the tension between the different groups as witnessed by Aisha, a Somali caregiver. La Mer Au Loin (France, Qatar) Dir. Said Hamich Benlarbi 27-year-old Nour emigrates illegally to Marseille and lives off petty crime with friends leading marginal lives, and partying hard. MENA Feature Narrative Post-Production Back to Alexandria (Switzerland, France, Qatar) Dir. Tamer Ruggli Sue returns to Egypt to meet her estranged mother, Fairouz, an eccentric aristocrat. This surprising journey, leading her from Cairo back to Alexandria, allows Sue to become the empowered woman she ought to be. East of Noon (Egypt, Netherlands, Qatar) Dir. Hala Elkoussy A fable about musician Abdo, who rebels against his elders, seeking freedom through his art in a confined world outside of time. Non-MENA Feature Narrative Post-Production Banel & Adama (France, Senegal, Mali, Qatar) Dir. Ramata-Toulaye Sy In a small village in northern Senegal, Banel and Adamas love challenges traditional customs, disrupting their community. Excursion (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Norway, France, Qatar) Dir. Una Gunja A teenage girls seemingly little lie leads her into a storm of expectations, condemnation, and social dogmas. Lost Country (France, Serbia, Luxembourg, Croatia, Qatar) Dir. Vladimir Perisic A 15-year-old who must accept the unacceptablethat his mother is an accomplice of the regimes crimes. The Women (Germany, Italy, Qatar) Dir. The Maw Naing A young Burmese woman moves to the big city to work in a garment factory to support her family. Ze (France, Mongolia, Netherlands, Germany, Qatar) Dir. Lkhagvadulam Purev-Ochir A teenage shaman falls in love with a girl, shattering his fragile existence in modern Mongolia. MENA Feature Experimental/Essay Development Tell it to Bridges (Lebanon, Qatar) Dir. Ali Hammoud A quest for a forever home which leads to one being lost and the other not entirely found. MENA Feature Documentary Production I Am One of Them (Poland, Qatar) Dir.Nadim Suleiman A Syrian immigrant shoots a film about a Polish nationalist, which becomes an excuse to bring the two together, setting them out on a faraway trip to discover their identities. MENA Feature Documentary Post-Production The Language of Fire (Algeria, France, Qatar) Dir. Tarek Sami Explore the idea that while a nomad is free from accountability, immobility must be accounted for. Non-MENA Feature Documentary Post-Production Ozogoche (Ecuador, Qatar) Dir. Joe Houlberg Exploration of the migration of the Cuvivi bird to the Ecuadorian highlands, which ends in collective suicide as they plunge into the Ozogoche Lakes Rising Up at Night (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Belgium, Germany, Burkina Faso, Qatar) Dir. Nelson Makengo Plans to build the largest power plant on the Congo plunge 17 million people into darkness and insecurity. MENA TV Series Development Dyouf (Guests) (Palestine, Qatar) Dir. Saleh Saadi A family of five run a guesthouse in their Bedouin village in Occupied Palestine while living in a turmoil of relations, identity, and career. Halaa (Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar) Dir. Amal Al Muftah An anthology of Middle Eastern crime stories that explores the complex ironies of human morality. MENA Web Series Production The House That My Mother Built (Sudan, Qatar) Dir. Alyaa Musa Eight women from across Sudan as they share their astonishing encounters with the inhabitants of the households they took refuge in during Sudans revolution in 2019. MENA Shorts Narrative Production Autumn (Qatar) Dir. Aisha Al-Jaidah A romantic tragedy of the captivity of ambitious thoughts under short roofs. The Experiment (Qatar) Dir.Abdulla Alhor In a prison in a Middle Eastern city where a Qatari researcher must win a promotion challenge to prove that his rehab experiment works. The Day I Smoked a Cigarette with My Father (Egypt, France, Qatar) Dir. Sameh Alaa Set in 1964, 12-year-old Alaa and his three siblings prepare to welcome their father who is returning from prison. MENA Shorts Documentary Production Fast Net Palestine (France, Qatar) Dir. Mohamed Khamkham The story of a Palestinian computer scientist who reconstructs the killing of hundreds of children in Gaza during the summer of 2014 in a video game. MENA Shorts Experimental/Essay Production No Reaching Hand (Qatar) Dir. Batla Aldosari A young woman goes through a series of disturbing events as she tries to find her true self. Lmina (France, Morocco, Qatar) Dir. Rande Maroufi A former mining town in Morocco sees a decline in its fortunes until all mining is ceased in 2001. The Grocery List (Bahrain, Qatar) Dir. Taqwa Ali. A young man who rebels against his mother after she rejects a bottle of milk of his choice. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Poland Passes Bill On Russian Influence Former PM Donald Tusk is seen at Poland's parliament on May 26, 2023. The ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party voted through legislation that critics say targets opposition figures like Tusk. Credit - Jaap ArriensNurPhoto via Getty Images Once seen as a European problem child over its rule of law violations, Poland appeared to turn a new leaf. Following Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year, the eastern European country rebranded itself as the standard-bearer of European solidarity with Kyiv, as well as a staunch defender of democratic values. In a speech in Warsaw earlier this year commemorating the anniversary of the war, President Joe Biden spoke warmly of Polands role in maintaining Western resolve against Russian autocracy. Were seeing again today what the people of Poland and the people all across Europe saw for decades, said the U.S. President. Appetites of the autocrat cannot be appeased. They must be opposed. But Polands makeover was only ever skin-deep. This became especially apparent this week, when Polish President Andrzej Duda signed into law new legislation that could effectively ban opposition lawmakers from public office for a decade under the guise of rooting out Russian interference in the country. Put forward by the ruling right-wing nationalist Law and Justice Party (PiS), the law paves the way for the creation of a new commission that the Polish government says would be tasked with investigating alleged Russian interference in the country from 2007 to 2022. In particular, the commission will look at gas deals signed with Moscow that the government says left the country overly reliant on Russian energy. More from TIME According to Reuters, the commission will be comprised of nine members appointed by the Polish parliaments lower housethe majority of whom are expected to be PiS lawmakersand could deliver its initial report as early as September. That is just weeks before the countrys fall parliamentary election. Those deemed guilty of acting under Russian influence (the exact parameters of which is unclear) stand to face harsh penalties, including a potential 10-year ban from managing public funds, which would in effect disqualify them from public office. There is no apparent appeals process for those who are found guilty under the legislation. Story continues Critics of the new law have dubbed the legislation Lex Tusk after the purported target of the new legislation, the former Polish prime minister and centrist opposition leader Donald Tusk. In 2010, Tusks government signed a deal with Russias Gazprom, which was reportedly cited in the official justification for the new bill. But many say that the creation of such a commission is unconstitutional on the grounds that it would be open to abuse and empower an extrajudicial commission to bar the governments political rivals from public life. The commissions powers amount to a symbolic beheading, said Mirosaw Wyrzykowski, a retired judge on the countrys Constitutional Tribunal, based on an absolutely discretional assessment of information and evidence. It is the sign of the end of Polish democracy, Wyrzykowski tells TIME. While most others have taken to calling the new law Lex Tusk, he says he prefers to refer to it as the Russian Commission because, as he sees it, It is a regulation which could be adopted in Russia, in Belarus, in North Korea. But not in Poland. A Committee on Russian Influences composed of ruling party hacks will be able to exclude key opposition figures from politics, tweeted Radek Sikorski, a Polish politician and former foreign affairs minister under Tusks government, adding that he too would expect to be a target. Krzysztof Brejza, the parliamentary leader of Tusks Civic Platform party, dubbed the commission a Soviet-style idea and a witch hunt. In response to these criticisms, Duda said that the law would be subject to examination by the countrys Constitutional Tribunal, which due to an ongoing dispute over who should lead it has been unable to gather a quorum to review legislation. Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki suggested that only those with something to hide are opposed to the new commission. By framing the commission not as an illiberal means of neutering political opponents but, rather, as a means of rooting out Kremlin influence, the Polish government has sought to deftly maintain its reformed public perception while simultaneously pressing ahead with the kind of illiberal policies that have made Poland among the worlds most notable backsliding democracies. Theres a deep irony in the bill ostensibly being about investigating Russian influence in Polish public life while providing for the creation of a kangaroo court straight out of Putinist ideology, tweeted Ben Stanley, an associate professor at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities in Warsaw. But it hasnt necessarily succeeded. Within hours of its passage, the new law was met with vocal criticism from both sides of the Atlantic. The U.S. government issued a statement on Monday expressing concern that the new law could be used to to interfere with Polands free and fair elections and called on Warsaw to ensure that it would not be invoked or abused in ways that could affect the perceived legitimacy of elections. Didier Reynders, the E.U. Commissioner for Justice, said on Tuesday that Brussels had a special concern about the situation in Poland and will not hesitate to take measures if its needed because its impossible to agree on such a system without a real access to justice. In response, the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement on Tuesday clarifying that although the legislation remains within sovereign national competence of the Polish parliament, we are always ready to clarify and explain all potential misinterpretations and doubts about it, adding in particular that Poland highly values the alliance with United States and remains ready to engage in further dialogue through diplomatic channels. But these comments may not be enough to placate worries that the legislation is aimed at ensuring that PiS glides to victory when Poles head to the ballot box in October or early November, in an election where the party is seeking an unprecedented third term. While opinion polls show PiS with the most support, it may not be enough for the party to command a parliamentary majority. (Although Duda is backed by PiS, the outcome of the election will have no bearing on his position; his presidential term ends in 2025.) By weaponizing the newly-established commissions powers, the ruling party could seek to eliminate or greatly hinder its opponentsand, critics say, steal the election. This approach could backfire, though. Instead of dividing the opposition, it could unify it, former Polish Prime Minister Wodzimierz Cimoszewicz tells TIME in a statement. It may also mobilize many voters who had not intended to vote, but who recognize that a line of security and decency has been crossed. Polands opposition is banking on the fact that public opposition could yet force the government to change course. Tusk has called on people to hold a mass protest in Warsaw on June 4, the anniversary of the 1989 election that marked the end of communist rule in the country. We will be well heard and seen from the windows of your palace, Tusk said in a tweet directed at Duda. Will you come? Standing before a 20-foot American flag in an evangelical church in Iowa, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis made his first appearance as a presidential candidate. The tired dogmas of the past are inadequate for a vibrant future. We must look forward, not look backwards," DeSantis said. "We must have the courage to lead, and we must have the strength to win, because the stakes couldnt be higher. A few hundred supporters packed into Eternity Church in Clive, filling the seats of the small auditorium and standing along the grey cinderblock walls. Cheering drowned out the music when Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds welcomed DeSantis to the stage and as he took the podium. It was the first public campaign event since DeSantis launched his presidential campaign last week in a Twitter event marred by technical difficulties. Although this is his first swing through Iowa as an official presidential candidate, DeSantis has been a frequent visitor for several months. He sprinkled praise for Reynolds and Iowa's Republican-led legislature throughout his speech, comparing Iowa's political trajectory to Florida's. I wish the elites in Washington, D.C., would take a page out of the Iowa playbook, but instead, they have ignored what works and they have continued to plunge this nation into the abyss," DeSantis said. DeSantis will be on the campaign trail Wednesday morning, holding four events across Iowa before traveling to New Hampshire. He will be back in Iowa Saturday for a fundraiser with U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst. More: Where and when are presidential candidates visiting Iowa? Ron DeSantis recites his Florida record, notes similarities with Iowa Unlike many presidential contenders, DeSantis didnt have to introduce himself to Iowans his highly-anticipated candidacy comes after two high-profile terms as the governor of Florida, which has been at the vanguard of Republican policy-making in recent years. Instead, DeSantis presented a lengthy, wide-ranging speech focused on policy, listing dozens of bills he signed into law and lambasting President Joe Bidens handling of the economy and the U.S.-Mexico border. He made frequent comparisons to Iowa, which has considered or passed many of the same conservative laws as Florida. Story continues In Florida, we didn't lead with mere words. We followed up our words with deeds, and we have produced a record of accomplishment that we would put up against anybody in this country," DeSantis said. Reynolds praised DeSantis for signing a bill that bans most abortions after six weeks: the same bill that I was proud to sign into law in 2018, she said, her words swallowed by the crowd's cheers. The Iowa Supreme Court is considering whether to lift a permanent injunction on that law and allow it to take effect. DeSantis railed against "indoctrination in schools another theme echoed in Republican politics in Florida and Iowa alike. As governor, DeSantis has signed legislation to ban instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation, to remove funding for diversity, equity and inclusion offices at state colleges, to restrict care for transgender individuals, and to prohibit the teaching of "critical race theory," which argues that the U.S. still struggles with systemic racism. Those efforts have led to an ongoing feud with Walt Disney World, the largest employer in Florida, and drawn ire from the NAACP and LGBTQ advocacy groups. More: Is Ron DeSantis ready for Iowa prime time? What to watch in first presidential campaign trip DeSantis framed those laws as victories for Florida and as the future of the Republican Party nationwide. Many Republican-led states, including Iowa, have already followed Florida's lead and passed similar laws. Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart said in a statement that DeSantis "is running for president on the same agenda of taking away freedoms that he enacted in Florida and ignoring the biggest economic issues that face the middle class. Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis greets audience members during a campaign event in Clive, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. "One thing is certain: No matter who wins the Republican primary, it is absolutely clear that another MAGA presidency would be a disaster for Iowans," Hart said. DeSantis visit precedes Trump again Once again, DeSantis Iowa trip coincides with a visit from former President Donald Trump, his most formidable opponent for the Republican presidential nomination. Trump is set to arrive in Des Moines Wednesday night, his campaign said, before events on Thursday. The Trump campaign sent an email touting Trumps strength in the polls and criticizing DeSantis on issues ranging from Social Security to ethanol. "With the Republican primary field continuing to expand, I have never been more confident that President Trump is the only person capable of steering our country off this path of destruction to a nation filled with prosperity," Iowa Sen. Tim Kraayenbrink said in the email. Attendees of DeSantis' Tuesday kickoff said they prefer the Florida governor to the former president. Dave Wisnieski, a 60-year-old Clive resident who attended the event, said DeSantis is his top choice for the GOP nomination. Hes ready to move on from Trump and sees DeSantis as the best alternative. His policies were good, he said of Trump. But with DeSantis, you get an adult that says all the right things and is very presidential. Derian Baugh, a 40-year-old Johnston, said he thinks Trump should be held accountable "for what happened with COVID-19 and the vaccine." "I think that DeSantis right now has a track record of getting things done, and what matters at the end of the day is putting points on the board and he clearly knows how to do that," Baugh said. Ron DeSantis enters the race with national attention, huge war chest DeSantis comes to Iowa with significantly more name recognition and money in the bank than most presidential hopefuls. National support for DeSantis peaked at about 30% earlier this year, according to data compiled by Real Clear Politics. He was running about 15 percentage points behind Trump at the time. But the gap has widened since March. The Real Clear Politics rolling average of national polling puts Trump's support at about 54% and DeSantis' at about 21% a 33-point margin. Casey DeSantis, wife of Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, speaks during a campaign event in Clive, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. A Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll conducted in March showed support for Trump was waning in Iowa. Meanwhile, DeSantis' favorability numbers were on par with Trump's: 80% of Iowa Republicans said they felt favorable toward Trump, compared with 74% who viewed DeSantis favorably. Despite lagging in the polls, DeSantis has entered the race with millions in the bank. At the beginning of this month, political action committees aligned with DeSantis held tens of millions of dollars more than PACs aligned with Trump. The DeSantis campaign raised $8.2 million in the first 24 hours after DeSantis entered the race last week. However, some of DeSantis's funding is under scrutiny. A campaign watchdog organization Tuesday filed a complaint with the Federal Elections Commission, accusing DeSantis of violating fund-raising laws by shifting more than $80 million from his state spending committee into a federal one. The Campaign Legal Center, a nonprofit, accused DeSantis and his Friends of Ron DeSantis state political committee, of violating federal, unregulated soft money restrictions when they recently transferred funds to a new, Never Back Down federal account. Were talking about funds from billionaires and corporate special interests who could exert massive influence over the candidate they are financing, said Saurav Ghosh, with the CLC, which has also previously filed complaints against Trump. Laws banning these funds from being used to seek office are there for a reason to prevent corruption, promote transparency and ensure that wealthy special interests cant rig the system even further in their favor, he added. Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis greets audience members after a campaign event in Clive, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. The complaint also alleges that DeSantis was effectively a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination well before his formal campaign kickoff last week. A pro-Trump super-PAC earlier this year made a similar claim in filing a spending complaint against DeSantis with the Florida Commission on Ethics. The DeSantis campaign and his Never Back Down PAC did not immediately respond to questions about the complaint. John Kennedy and Brianne Pfannenstiel contributed reporting to this story. Katie Akin is a politics reporter for the Register. Reach her at kakin@registermedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at @katie_akin. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Gov. Ron DeSantis launches 2024 campaign at Eternity Church Avery Olson is a second-year OB-GYN resident physician at the University of Hawaii. She is originally from Rapid City. Avery Olson has a choice to make. She could practice womens health care as an OB-GYN in her home state of South Dakota, where it is illegal to perform abortions and where the exception to perform one to protect the life of the mother is unclear to some physicians. Or she could practice in a nearby state, one where abortions are legal and she can practice to her full ability while still staying close to her family. She has two years left in her residency, but shes already being recruited by South Dakota practices. South Dakota is facing a shortage of OB-GYNs and is a leading state for maternity care deserts, which is a county without a hospital or birth center offering obstetric care. Olson wants to be part of the solution, but she hesitates. She worries the states abortion laws will serve to worsen the shortage, leaving future South Dakota OB-GYNs to bear heavier workloads while some rural womens health care needs are neglected. Its a nationwide worry, as a patchwork of state laws in the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade in 2022 could exacerbate an already looming national shortage. Where Im training, there are maybe two out of the 28 residents who would consider working in a state that has restrictive laws in place for womens health care, said Olson, who is a resident physician at the University of Hawaii. Thats because Im from South Dakota and the other is from Texas. The rest of them wouldnt even touch South Dakota. South Dakotas OB-GYN shortage Forty-six of South Dakotas 66 counties do not have obstetric providers, according to the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration. OB-GYNs are trained in two specialties: pregnancy care from preconception to childbirth, and all womens health issues. They handle Pap smears, mammograms, menopause and annual womens health physicals; they also handle infertility and are the primary surgeons when cesarean sections are needed or when an abortion is performed. Story continues While family physicians can provide many of the same services, they are not specialized in such surgical procedures. Patients with high-risk pregnancies often see a specialist early. Some women may have pulmonary hypertension, cystic fibrosis or other conditions that pose high risks of death when pregnant. Some could develop cancer while pregnant, or fetal anomalies might be detected. Prior to South Dakotas trigger ban, termination would have been among the options for those patients to consider. In 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention documented increases in cesarean delivery, preterm birth rates and low birth weights across the country, all of which can increase other health risks and require specialized care. About a quarter of births in South Dakota are by cesarean delivery. According to a 2021 report projecting the supply and demand for womens health service providers across the county, South Dakota was short 10 OB-GYNs in 2018. Although the demand isnt projected to increase by 2030, the report expects the supply of OB-GYNs to worsen with only 78.6% of the demand being filled. In a national survey of more than 2,000 medical students, residents, fellows and practicing physicians through social media, three-fourths of respondents said they would not apply to states with legal consequences for providing abortion care, and more than 80% would prefer to train or practice in states with preserved abortion access, according to a study published in February in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. If medical residents bypass South Dakota for nearby states where abortion is legal, such as Colorado or Minnesota, that could lead to worse health outcomes for South Dakotans, said Morgan Schriever, a University of South Dakota medical school graduate and first-year resident at Southern Illinois University. Womens health care is going to suffer, Schriever said. Itll be harder to find an OB-GYN, there will be longer wait times to see a physician, and there will be ultimately more stress on providers because theyre taking more calls and more patients and more stress and more burdens on them. Itll be a downward spiral. OB-GYNs travel out of state for residencies, less likely to return South Dakota is one of five states that does not have an obstetrics residency, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The University of South Dakota ended its residency program in the late 1980s amid budget concerns and other complications the school faced at the time. Since then, all USD medical students planning to become OB-GYNs must train in another state. That already makes it difficult to recruit OB-GYNs, Olson said, because residents are typically at an age where theyre planning future careers, marrying or starting families. Its a time where a good portion of people stay in the state where they do their residencies, Olson said. When residents practice in states such as Hawaii or Illinois, where abortion law is not as restrictive as in South Dakota, it makes it a more difficult choice to return, Schriever said. Originally from Sioux Falls, Schriever was intent on returning to South Dakota after her residency. But thats changed. In Illinois, she regularly encounters patients requesting or requiring an abortion. The frequency of those situations made her realize how integral the practice is to womens health care, and highlighted the lengths to which women will go to receive an abortion even spending over $1,000 and driving hours out-of-state for one. Coming to or planning on practicing in a state that has these bans means I cant practice full-scope, Schriever said. OB-GYN residency programs are required to offer access to training in abortion, although students with moral or religious objections are permitted to opt out. This requirement has been enforced by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education since 1996, and programs unable to meet this standard jeopardize their accreditation status. Its already a problem for residents in states where abortion is banned, such as Tennessee. Several residents travel out of their residency state to another, like Oregon, to get the required experience. Its just a skill as an OB-GYN you should have, Schriever said. No matter where you practice, you could have someone in the ER who needs that type of procedure and youre the only one who can perform it. It should be a skill you should have even if you dont perform it on a daily basis. If South Dakota continues to see a shortage of OB-GYNs it wont be fair to the patients, Schriever added. These laws in these states make them less desirable locations for OB-GYNs to work, she said. Womens health care will ultimately suffer, and the people who will pay the price are the patients in these states. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: South Dakota has a womens health care shortage. The abortion ban may worsen it, physicians say. [Source] Academy Award-winner Michelle Yeoh delivered a speech to Harvard Law Schools Class of 2023 during the universitys Class Day ceremony at Holmes Field, Massachusetts. On May 24, the 60-year-old Malaysian actor shared simple pointers that she has learned throughout her career with graduates as they embarked onto the next chapter of their lives. As you know, I am not a lawyer. I cant even say that I have played one on the screen, so why am I here? Yeoh began. Well, maybe the reason Im here is because I happen to have some experience leaping off high perches into scary voids. Yeoh gave the graduates three easy steps on how to survive the fall, noting that learning how to fall teaches [them] how to land and learning to land gives [them] the courage to jump higher. More from NextShark: XGs Maya and Harvey reference John Wick,' Super Saiyans in new cypher video Two Tens The three steps are: stay loose, know your limits and find your people. For the first step, the actor reflected on the uncertainty of the future as she recalled how her dream to become a dancer ended after she suffered a spinal injury. However, the change ultimately led her to a career beyond [her] imagination. When falling, the tendency is to tighten up to brace for impact. But in truth, the safest thing one can do is remain calm even curious about the shifting world around you, Yeoh said. More from NextShark: 'Monster Hunter': Realistic-looking Kongari Meat pillows come in raw and cooked designs As for the next step, Yeoh highlighted the importance of knowing ones limitations both internally and externally to keep one humble, motivated and focused on a goal. The actor discussed her experiences portraying action roles at a time when they were reserved exclusively for men. She eventually landed a role in the 1997 film Tomorrow Never Dies as Wai Lin, who became instrumental in modernizing the franchise and its retrograde portrayals of women. Story continues Every demeaning role I was offered, every rejection I was handed, and every time someone underestimated me, I found energy and renewed motivation, she shared before concluding with her final piece of advice to find your people. More from NextShark: Ghibli Park to add rideable Catbuses, 'Princess Mononoke' village and more Life is not always a zero-sum game, Yeoh said. For every winner, there doesnt have to be a loser. In fact, most success stories are less about competition and more about collaboration My achievements are the results of those around me who offered, and continue to offer, support and belief. There are times where, as much as I dont want to let myself down, I dont want to let them down even more. Yeoh also turned to her experience working on the recent award-winning film Everything Everywhere All at Once. More from NextShark: Watch: First episode of new Pokemon: Hisuian Snow anime series "It brought together a community of creative and talented individuals, working with a common passion to tell a universal, human story, Yeoh said. This was a movie made entirely with love that was in many ways the culmination of my lifes work. Her final words of advice for the Class of 2023 were to, Stay loose, be smart and go with love and then leap. And then leap again. And then leap again. The ceremony was preceded with Thursdays Commencement festivities, which featured an address by actor Tom Hanks in Tercentenary Theatre followed by a diploma ceremony at Holmes Field. The law school conferred 735 degrees to JD and Master of Laws candidates. A wanted fugitive extradited from Germany returned to Sacramento County on Tuesday to face sexual assault charges. Nida Muhammad Niazy, 32, allegedly sexually assaulted two people on and near the Sacramento State campus last fall, according to law enforcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation said he would appear before Sacramento County Superior Court following extradition. Niazy was wanted in connection with two incidents in which university police said he would meet the victims on campus and tell them he was a Sacramento State student. The first sexual assault occurred Aug. 21 near the campus, and the second occurred Sept. 18 on campus, according to Sacramento State Police Chief Chet Madison. Each assault was reported roughly a month after they occurred. According to authorities, Niazy boarded a commercial flight from San Francisco to Switzerland on Nov. 5 after which the FBI obtained a federal arrest warrant in December. Niazy was apprehended in Germany by local authorities with the assistance of FBI agents and Interpol in February. He is expected to be arraigned Thursday. The FBI is eager to help our law enforcement partners ensure those accused of crimes can and will answer to charges, despite their efforts to flee, said Sean Ragan, a special agent of the FBIs Sacramento Field Office, in a news release. We thank our international partners and the FBI International Operations Division for assisting us with our effort to apprehend Mr. Niazy. Niazys return to face prosecution is funded by Project Welcome Home, a federal program that aids the transportation of federal fugitives to the United States. The Sacramento State Police Department and Sacramento County Sheriffs Department investigated the assaults, and the Sacramento County District Attorneys Office is prosecuting the case, according to the FBI. His bail was set at $700,000. Sacramento State officials adopted an action plan in January to address sexual violence and support campus safety measures following the fall semesters sexual assault reports. Cases seeking information from the public, including fugitive matters, are posted on the FBI Sacramento Field Offices Most Wanted page and the FBI Most Wanted app. The FBI said anyone with information should contact their local FBI office, U.S. embassy or submit information online at tips.fbi.gov. Taiwan has received a shipment of Stinger missiles and other military equipment originally approved in 2019, as the U.S. works to fulfill a backlog of nearly $19 billion in weapons sales to the island democracy. A State Department spokesperson told The Hill on Wednesday that reports of Stinger missiles arriving in Taipei last week were related to a $223.56 million weapons sale initially approved in July 2019. That weapons sale included more than 250 Stinger missiles an anti-aircraft weapon favored for its light weight and capability to be fired from a soldiers shoulder, which has proven to be a favored weapon for Ukrainian forces battling Russian aggression. The English-language Taipei Times reported on May 27 that a batch of Stinger missiles arrived in Taipei from the U.S., citing a report in the Chinese-language United Daily News. While Taiwans Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said earlier this month that President Biden is expected to announce the first tranche of a $1 billion weapons transfer to Taiwan directly from Department of Defense stockpiles and approved by Congress for 2023 the State Department spokesperson said the Stingers that arrived in Taiwan are related to the earlier approved arms sale. In 2019, we notified a proposed [Foreign Military Sale] case to TECRO [Taipei Economic And Cultural Representative Office In The United States] for this system, the spokesperson said. As such, this case predates authorities included in Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act (TERA) as incorporated into the FY23 National Defense Authorization Act. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have pushed the Biden administration to find solutions to the $19 billion backlog in defense deliveries, which U.S. officials say are related to ongoing COVID-19 supply chain issues and production lines that have gone dormant. The U.S. and Taiwan are alarmed that Chinese aggression towards the autonomous, island-democracy that Beijing claims as part of its territory is a prelude to a wider conflict and are working to outfit the island with defense capabilities they say will deter a Chinese invasion. Story continues China regularly violates Taiwanese air and naval space and has conducted live-fire military exercises around the island in response to high-profile meetings between U.S. and Taiwanese officials, such as when former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) visited the island in August 2022 and when Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen met Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) in California in April. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning responded to the reports of the delivery of Stingers on May 26, criticizing the U.S. as interfering in Chinas internal affairs, calling the weapons delivery extremely wrong and dangerous. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. OUAGADOUGOU, May 30 (Xinhua) -- About 40 people, including army auxiliaries, were killed over the weekend in two terrorist attacks in northwestern Burkina Faso, sources said Tuesday. The first attack targeted an armed convoy near Bourasso in the Boucle du Mouhoun region Saturday, said the regional government in a statement Sunday without specifying the death toll. A local source told Xinhua that about 20 people, including army auxiliaries, were killed in the attack, while the Burkina Information Agency said 18 fighters who were injured are under medical care. Local media reported that about 20 others were killed Sunday in Wakara in the same region in another attack. Several tens of terrorists were killed by defense and security forces responding to these attacks, according to a security source. In a speech delivered Tuesday before the deputies, Prime Minister Apollinaire Joachimson Kyelem de Tambela declared the creation of six rapid intervention battalions, six gendarmerie legions, and two new air bases as well as the recruitment of 6,000 soldiers. The head of government reaffirmed Burkina Faso's commitment to fighting terrorism and "never to negotiate with armed terrorist groups." Since 2015, insecurity in the West African country has claimed many lives and displaced thousands of others. The post Third Man Charged in Murder of Run-DMCs Jam Master Jay appeared first on Consequence. A third man has been charged in connection with the murder of Run-DMC DJ Jam Master Jay, who was shot and killed on October 30th, 2002. Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn filed a superseding indictment charging Jay Bryant, 49, in the death of the hip-hop pioneer, who was born Jason Mizell. Cesar de Castro, Bryants attorney, said his client would be pleading not guilty. Securing an indictment in a secret grand jury, applying an extremely low burden of proof, is one thing, he said in a statement (via The New York Times). Proving it at trial is another matter. Bryant, who is from Queens, had already been in custody for separate federal drug charges. Two other men Ronald Washington and Karl Jordan were previously indicted in August 2020 and charged in connection with the murder of Mizell. At the time, prosecutors said the shooting was the result of a cocaine deal gone bad. According to court papers, Washington and Jordan conspired to kill Mizell after he excluded them from the deal. In the new court filing, prosecutors said Bryant entered Mizells Queens recording studio with Washington and Jordan. While Washington pointed a gun at another person, Jordan fired two close-range shots at Mizell, including a fatal one to the head. According to the indictment, Bryant was spotted entering the building immediately before the shooting, and clothing with his DNA was found at the crime scene. Though Bryant at one point admitted to participating in the murder and has actually told someone he was the shooter, prosecutors do not believe he fired the fatal shot. Mizells murder languished as a cold case for nearly two decades as detectives struggled to establish a motive. Now, justice may finally be served. Third Man Charged in Murder of Run-DMCs Jam Master Jay Eddie Fu Story continues Popular Posts Subscribe to Consequences email digest and get the latest breaking news in music, film, and television, tour updates, access to exclusive giveaways, and more straight to your inbox. Not there for the No. 1 guy in the group? A Vanderpump Rules fan was reportedly escorted out of Tom Sandoval's recent concert in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, after showing support for Ariana Madix. In footage from the Monday, May 29, event, an unidentified woman is seen holding a sign that reads "Team Ariana" while watching Sandoval, 40, and The Most Extras perform. The video, which was obtained by Page Six, showed the attendee flipping the TomTom cofounder off before security removed her from the venue. After the incident made headlines, a source addressed the footage from the concert, telling Us, Every venue has a policy that kicks people out anytime they harass the talent on stage. Whether its a standup comedian, a band, etc. That type of behavior is not accepted, and security removes people who display these types of actions. Sandoval, for his part, appeared unfazed as he continued to sing various covers of songs with his band members. The reality star later took to social media to thank fans for supporting him on the creative endeavor. "Thank u so much everyone for coming to the shows! Theyve been so much fun, & such a blast!" Sandoval wrote on Tuesday, May 30, alongside Instagram photos from multiple concerts throughout the month. Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras in concert Stephanie Augello/Shutterstock The Missouri native has been touring with his band since news broke about his affair with Raquel Leviss. Us Weekly confirmed in March that Sandoval and Madix, 37, called it quits after nearly a decade of dating due to his infidelity. In response to the drama, Sandoval issued two public statements after he was slammed for not including Madix in his first social media apology. The bar owner, who hooked up with Leviss, 28, for the first time in August 2022, later claimed he tried to end his relationship with the Florida native before his affair came to light. Tom Sandoval and Ariana Madix Stephanie Augello/Shutterstock; Jen Lowery/MEGA "We didn't tell anybody, but she knew," he alleged on an episode of the "Howie Mandel Does Stuff" podcast in April. "She was trying to, like convince me not to be broken up ... but that was not the case. She asked me that day as we were leaving about, like because we had talked about fertilizing [her] eggs, which I never did. She was like, 'So, what do you think about doing a sperm check to fertilize my eggs?' And I'm like, 'What? We're broken up.' ... I was like, 'We'll talk about this later, I gotta go do my show.'" Story continues Madix, for her part, offered her version of events following Sandoval's claims that they discussed a split amid his secret romance with Leviss. "He got me flowers, we went to Schwartz & Sandy's for dinner and we brought a super special bottle of wine that was special to us," she said on an episode of the "Call Her Daddy" podcast earlier this month, referring to their date on Valentine's Day and an "hours-long" conversation about Sandoval's mid-life crisis. The Something About Her cofounder continued: "And I said, 'If we break up, I'm probably going to quit the show. I will probably leave Los Angeles, I'll probably deactivate my Instagram.' And he found that to be, like, very offensive. ... I was never saying that I was going to kill myself. I was saying that my life this life will be over for me because I will go do something else. ... He knows that that's not what I was saying." Madix, who has since been linked to Daniel Wai, went on to say that she has no plans to forgive Leviss or Sandoval. "To be very clear, I didn't lose him. He lost me," she added. "It's now hard for me to look back at nine years and if I tell myself he's a pathological liar, then it means that the last nine years of my life were potentially a lie." Us Weekly has reached out to Sandoval's rep for comment. Image via Getty/Jeremy Poland Memorial Day travelers in Alabama were met with an alleged interstate sign hack in which messages associated with a white nationalist hate group were shown. As first reported by regional outlet AL.com on Monday, the alleged hack in question targeted a digital traffic sign near the Clanton area, resulting in the temporary display of the phrases Patriot Front US and Reclaim America. Both signs were pictured in a tweet from a traveler who said a state trooper waved me to go on after snapping the images, as seen below. Slides 1&2 pictures here said Reclaim America and Patriot Front . US sarah (@sahughz) May 29, 2023 More on this Patriot Front is listed in the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC)s Extremist Files as a white nationalist hate group founded in 2017. The group, further identified as an an SPLC-designated hate group, first broke off from the neo-Nazi Vanguard America group following the fatal Unite the Right rally in Virginia. According to the report, which cited a statement from an Alabama Department of Transportation rep, the hackwhich the spokesperson said targeted a portable message board owned by a contractorwill now be the subject of an investigation. Additionally, the rep said, no other message boards on the interstate were hacked. Complex has reached out to reps for the Alabama Department of Transportation and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency for comment. This story may be updated. This summer, one airline will be weighing more than luggage. Air New Zealand announced on Tuesday that it will ask its passengers to step on the scales at their departure gates as part of a five-week customer weight survey. Under the initiative, some 10,000 passengers traveling internationally out of Auckland International Airport between now and July 2 will be weighed prior to boarding. If the ordeal sounds undesirable or humiliating, take comfort in the knowledge that this is all done to make you a little saferin fact, New Zealands Civil Aviation Authority requires the measure. Passenger weight and its distribution are key factors both in keeping an aircraft stable and in determining how much fuel is required for the journey, according to industry site Simple Flying. Airlines periodically calculate average passenger weights to make such adjustments. We weigh everything that goes on the aircraftfrom the cargo to the meals onboard, to the luggage in the hold," Alastair James, an Air New Zealand load control improvement specialist, said in a statement. "For customers, crew, and cabin bags, we use average weights, which we get from doing this survey. The weigh-ins for Air New Zealand will be on a completely voluntary, opt-in basis. Plus, the airline is assuring its customers that all data collected will remain anonymous, and no one will be able to see passengers weights. Step right up to the digital scale, and your numbers will shoot right into the survey. Neither the gate agent nor the passenger will be privy to a number of any kind, keeping everyone but the necessary parties in ignorant bliss. We know stepping on the scales can be daunting, James said. We want to reassure our customers there is no visible display anywhere. Air New Zealand last surveyed passenger weight in 2021, but, as the nations borders were closed due to the pandemic, it was only able to measure domestic fliers. Now, as international travel to and from New Zealand has rebounded, this summers survey will capture data from passengers around the world. Occasional passenger weigh-ins are required in many countries, not just New Zealand. Finlands Finnair, for one, conducted a similar weight survey on a voluntary basis at Helsinki airport in 2017. Then, as now, the airline sought to update data that had grown stale. The FAA also requires US airlines to periodically submit refreshed customer weight averages, but most US carriers rely on alternative methods of data collection to estimate what the average passenger weighs. Allowing passengers to self-report their weight is one such option, and it comes with the caveat that passenger weight fluctuates over time and even from one season to the next. For example, the FAA tells airlines to add five pounds to any reported weight to account for clothing in the summertime; in the colder months, that figure jumps 10 extra pounds to factor in heavy winter clothes. Originally Appeared on Conde Nast Traveler Theyre a healthier alternative to Dippin' Dotsyes, really. Getty Images Like many other enthusiasts of the retail giant, Target is my safe space. From perusing through the books to grabbing a seasonal Starbucks beverage, I love going up and down every single aisle and finding hidden gemsand that includes the food and freezer aisles, too. Somehow I missed a game-changing dessert after many, many visits, but a recent visit to the Wyman's office in Portland, Maine, had me running to Target the second I came back home. At Wyman's, I was given the opportunity to taste-test all sorts of goodies, from fresh blueberry juice to unreleased sweets (stay tuned!), but there's one product that stood out to me, and I have to share it right now. Related: The #1 Dessert to Buy at Costco, According to a Food Editor It's these Wyman's Just Fruit Wild Blueberries, Strawberries and Banana Bites that had me itching for more. Yes, I'm getting hyped up over frozen fruit cups, but hear me out! These frozen cups are healthy options for packaged desserts. They're made with just six ingredients: wild blueberries, strawberries, water, banana puree, cane sugar and fruit pectin. The refreshing spheres of fruit in these cups have a light texture that melts in your mouth. The taste is cool and sweet (almost like nature's Dippin' Dots!). They're flavorful and the perfect serving sizeI can already imagine myself enjoying a cup by the pool on a hot summer day. I will admit that when I went to the store the other day, Target was all out of my preferred flavor. But before my heart broke into two, I found these Wyman's Just Fruit Raspberries & Strawberries with Greek Yogurt Bites. The punch of the berries balances perfectly with the Greek yogurt bites, so if strawberry-raspberry is your preferred fruit combo, they're definitely worth the buy. So the next time you're making a Target run, consider swinging by the frozen fruit section and trying these Wyman's fruit cups. With only 40 calories a cup, they're light options for dessert or even a midday snack. Thank me later! Up next: I'm a Chef & These Are the 15 Groceries I Always Buy at Target This product was reviewed on a press trip sponsored by Ethos Marketing, who manage Wyman's. However, all opinions are authentic and our own. Zombie movies tend to be pretty polarizing among cinephiles: Generally, you either love them or you hate them, but if you love zombie movies? Then you really, really love zombie movies. There's much more to the genre than just flesh and brain eating, or mindless shuffling masses of the undead. Most zombie films also take a sharp look at the human condition, including how everyday folks would survive a zombie apocalypse, how many of us going through our day-to-day are essentially operating as the walking dead ourselves and how governments would handle (or mishandle) a zombie virus pandemic. Historically, zombie movies have also served as criticisms of racial injustice, nuclear war and consumerismelements that, for many, have never felt closer to home than they do right now. Whether you're seeking social commentaryor simply a bloody good timewe've rounded up a list of the best zombie movies for you to watch, including new zombie movies, zombie comedy movies (should we call them "zomedies?"), zombie movies on Netflix and classics; in fact, we've chosen 31 of them so you're guaranteed a good time in front of your screen every night of the month. This list also serves as a reminder that now is a good time to buy some bottled water for your basement. Best Zombie Movies of All Time These new zombie movies debuted within the last decade. Many combine classic zombie tropes (you know, the shuffling, the flesh-eating, the decay) with new elements, modern themes and seriously disturbed plot twists. Best New Zombie Movies 1. Army of the Dead (2021) Director Zack Snyder delivers in this zombie heist film, which boasts Tig Notaro, Dave Bautista and even robot zombiesbe on the lookout for them! 2. Overlord (2018) Soldiers dropped behind enemy lines just before D-Day in World War II discover some seriously terrifying Nazi experiments in Overlord. Come for the horror and zombies, stay for a seriously badass Wyatt Russell head-butt. Story continues 3. Train to Busan (2016) During a zombie outbreak in South Korea, passengers on a train from Seoul to Busan struggle to survive in this 2016 hit. 4. #Alive (2020) #Alive is terrifying in more ways than one. Aside from being about zombies, the South Korean film, shot in 2019 and released in June 2020, does a chillingly good job at capturing the fears associated with being isolated and alone during a crisis... and the hashtag in the title becomes very important. 5. Maggie (2015) Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as a truly dedicated dad to Abigail Breslin's titular Maggie. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the duo deliver poignant and heartbreaking performances, making this option one of the more tragic and dramatic (as opposed to gory and terrifying) films on the list. 6. The Girl With All the Gifts (2017) The Girl With All the Gifts paints a picture of a post-apocalyptic dystopia where most people are zombies called "hungries," with a serious taste for human flesh, and few survivors remain uninfected. While most "hungries" are mindless, some children retain their abilities to reason and feel despite their bloodlust. 7. World War Z (2013) Brad Pitt stars in World War Z, based on the book by Max Brooks (son of comedic auteur Mel Brooks), which follows a global pandemic (sound familiar?) and a race for a cure. Related: We Ranked the 151 Best Horror Movies EverFrom Frankenstein to Malignant Best Classic Zombie Movies These classic zombie movies set the tone for the entire genre, and you can see references to them in almost every zombie film to come out thereafter. 8. Night of the Living Dead (1968) Night of the Living Dead, released in 1968, is iconic zombie auteur George Romero at his finest and also most groundbreaking, with Duane Jones as the first African American actor to be the lead in a mainstream horror movie. Night of the Living Dead also has strong messages about racial justice, with stills in the end credits evoking the real-life terrors of white supremacy and lynching. 9. Return of the Living Dead (1985) While Return of the Living Dead is a zombie comedy, it's in the classic list because it revolutionized one particular part of the genre: It was the first zombie movie to portray zombies as hungry not for human flesh, but specifically for human brains. Based on a novel of the same name by John Russo, Return of the Living Dead also serves as a commentary on chemical warfare, especially the United States' use of Agent Orange in Vietnam, as well as the Dow Chemical Company's involvement in its production. 10. 28 Days Later (2003) Cillian Murphy and Naomie Harris star in modern classic 28 Days Later, which director Danny Boyle at one point didn't quite see as being a zombie film: A "rage virus" is unleashed in the U.K. when animal liberation activists freed an infected chimpanzee, and the movie follows Jim (Murphy) and Selena (Harris) as they navigate the post-apocalyptic world, in which the horrors aren't limited to the virus. 11. The Evil Dead (1981) Sam Raimi created the Evil Dead franchise, and the 1981 original film, The Evil Dead, was one of the goriest (and cheekiest!) movies of its time, introducing the world to Bruce Campbell's iconic Ash and the Deadites. Campbell previously told Parade that when producing the movie, a theater owner told the cast and crew, "You gotta keep the blood running down the screen!" Theres a scene in the original The Evil Dead where Ash is in the basement, and an old projector turns on, and these drops of blood hit the projector lens. Literally Ash has blood coming down the screen in front of him. That was an homage to what that guy told us, and we havent forgotten it, Campbell recalled. If youre going to have a horror movie, youve got to have blood. Related: 5 Classic Horror Movies That Are Still Shocking Today 12. Dawn of the Dead (1978) George Romero directs with music from Dario Argento, making Dawn of the Dead a horror lover's dream team and a gory commentary on consumerism. 13. Dawn of the Dead (2004) The 2004 remake of Dawn of the Dead is as good as the original, with a more modern mall setting, written by James Gunn(of Guardians of the Galaxy fame) and directed by Zack Snyder. Come for the zombies, stay for Ty Burrell as a smug jerk that couldn't be farther from his beloved Modern Family character. 14. Slither (2006) James Gunn makes his directorial debut with Slither, featuring his frequent collaborators Elizabeth Banks, Nathan Fillion, and Michael Rooker (and his then-wife, The Office star Jenna Fischer). The film features a parasite that turns its victims into monstrosities, and Rob Zombie has a voice cameoso listen closely to Dr. Karl! Related: The Best, Scariest Horror Movies on Netflix Right Now 15. The Last Man on Earth (1964) Released in 1964, The Last Man on Earth was the first feature film adaptation of the novel I Am Legend. In the book, the monsters are more vampiric (and capable of actions like running and climbing), whereas in the film, they're much more zombie-likeshuffling slowly and largely mindless, though they're still quite sensitive to sunlight. 16. Reanimator (1985) Loosely based on the H.P. Lovecraft short story Herbert WestReanimator, Reanimator was initially rated X upon release, then changed to an R when released on video, eventually becoming a cult favorite. The film raises the question of which characters in the film are the real monstersand the answer is relatively clear, but nonetheless a great viewing. Please be warned, however, that Reanimator does have at least one scene that may be triggering to sexual assault survivors, so proceed with caution. Related: The 19 Best Horror Movies on Amazon Prime Video Right Now Best Zombie Comedy Movies 17. Shaun of the Dead (2004) Simon Pegg is the lovable, hilarious hero of the classic Shaun of the Dead, as well as a co-writer on the film. Pegg has said Shaun of the Dead had a number of inspirations from classic zombie movies, including Night of the Living Dead and Dawn of the Dead, as well as the comedy Raising Arizona, Back to the Future, and Alfred Hitchcock classic The Birds. Look for a slew of British celebrity cameos, including Coldplay frontman Chris Martin! 18. Little Monsters (2019) Little Monsters is criminally underrated. Lupita Nyong'o and Alexander England team up to save a kindergarten class from a zombie outbreak during a field trip, in which they also encounter another kind of monstera kids' show host and all-around jerk played to perfection by Josh Gad. 19. Fido (2006) A fantastic satire, Fido, a film centered on a boy's bond with his "pet" zombie, lampoons not just zombie movies, but also the nuclear family, nuclear war, corporatism, class warfare, the criminal justice system, and even Lassie. 20. ParaNorman (2012) The most kid-friendly option on the list by far, ParaNorman is an unconventional zombie story: Norman is a medium capable of communicating with the dead, leading him to be an outcast within his own family as well as his classmates. His feelings of other-ness are only exacerbated when zombies begin following him all over town. The film is a sweet allegory for accepting and loving who you are, and it's not a coincidence that this theme accompanied the first-ever openly gay character (Norman's best friend, Mitch) in an animated feature. 21. Zombieland (2009) Woody Harrelson, Emma Stone, Abigail Breslin and Jesse Eisenberg star in Zombieland, a beloved comedy about a ragtag team coming together to survive in the direst of circumstancesand will make you feel better about craving Twinkies. Related: The 11 Best, Scariest Horror Movies on Hulu Right Now 22. The Dead Don't Die (2019) A star-studded ensemble cast, featuring Adam Driver, Tilda Swinton, Bill Murray, Danny Glover, Rosie Perez, Iggy Pop, RZA, Tom Waits, Selena Gomez and more, round out The Dead Don't Die, yet another zombie allegory for consumerism. 23. I Was a Teenage Zombie (1987) A parody of teen films of its era at the time of its 1987 release, I Was a Teenage Zombie is best-loved for its soundtrack, which features The Violent Femmes, The Waitresses, The Smithereens, Los Lobos, The Del Fuegos, and a title track from The Fleshtones, among others. 24. Ed And His Dead Mother (1993) A cult classic, 1993's Ed And His Dead Mother stars Steve Buscemi as Ed, mourning the passing of his overbearing mom. He pays a shady salesman $1,000 to reanimate herand when things go wrong, he's forced to come to terms with the true cost of his grief. 25. Evil Dead II (1987) Evil Dead II fully embraces the camp and comedy that made the original Evil Dead so great, but ups the ante in every imaginable way: Ash (Bruce Campbell) still hasn't learned his lesson to not vacation in abandoned cabins in the woods, nor to not play weird audiotapes he finds in said cabins. Macabre action and humor abound, particularly in the film's final scene. Related: From the Horrifyingly Haunting to the Hilarious, Heres 21 Black Horror Movies to Watch After CandymanIf You Dare 26. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies (2016) Love Jane Austen, but crave just a little more action? Pride and Prejudice and Zombies is for you: It finds Mr. Darcy (Sam Riley) as arrogant as ever, but his zombie-slaying skills make him inevitably irresistible to Elizabeth Bennett (Lily James), who delivers some serious "final girl" energy. 27. American Zombie (2008) If you're a fan of mockumentaries (think Best In Show or What We Do In the Shadows), American Zombie is for you: The film parodies both zombie tropes as well as identity politics and hustle culture. 28. Warm Bodies (2013) Nicholas Hoult brings life to his undead character in this 2013 zombie rom-com, told from the perspective of a smitten member of the undead. 29. Night of the Creeps (1986) It sounds like it could be about any woman's experience simply walking down the street after dark, but Night of the Creeps is actually about a fraternity prank gone horribly wrong. And let's be honest, most fraternity pranks could be described this way, too. 30. Aaah! Zombies!! (Wasting Away) (2007) What happens if you become a zombie, but don't know it? Aaah! Zombies!! (called Wasting Away in North America) examines how it feels for a zombie to turn without realizing that's what happenedand shows the world from their perspective. 31. Braindead (Dead Alive) (1993) Peter Jackson of Lord of the Rings fame wrote and directed Braindead. Released in 1992 with a $3 million budget, this zombie comedy was Jackson's most expensive film ever at the time (can you even imagine?) and is one of the goriest movies you'll ever see. The film is titled Dead Alive stateside because another movie named Brain Dead already had rights at the time of its release. Next, Need a Good Scare? These Are the 37 Best Horror Movies on HBO Max Right Now! Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino are welcoming babies despite their age. Do men have biological clocks? (Photos: Getty Images) Congratulations are in order for two Hollywood leading men. Al Pacino, 83, is welcoming a new baby with 29-year-old girlfriend Noor Alfallah, while 79-year-old Robert De Niro just introduced the world to his seventh child, his first with decades-younger partner Tiffany Chen. Pacino and De Niro may be able to have children, but their advanced age does make one wonder: do men have biological clocks that impact their fertility? When it comes to fertility, a heavy emphasis is placed on the age of the woman, with studies suggesting that fertility begins to decline in ones 30s, particularly after age 35. Dr. Jamie Grifo, director of NYU Langone Fertility Center and division director of reproductive endocrinology and infertility within the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, previously told Yahoo Life, "Even with reproductive assistance, achieving pregnancy after age 45 is very slim this is because the number of eggs and the quality of those eggs is very low. Yet men who have a younger partner dont have to worry quite as much about their own age when it comes to having a biological child at least, to an extent. Fertility does decline in men as they age, but not as dramatically as it does for women and for different reasons. Dr. Jane L. Frederick, a reproductive endocrinologist, tells Yahoo Life that men over the age of 40 are 30% less likely to conceive compared to younger men under the age of 30. Data also showed that it took older men longer to get their partner pregnant a five times increase compared with men under 25. Male fertility is an under-researched field, yet there are some findings to suggest male biological clocks do have a significant impact on the likelihood of a successful pregnancy. A 2017 study from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, for example, found that the chance of live birth decreased with older men, even if their partners were younger women. Story continues While men often can have biological children much older than women can, their fertility is still impacted by age. Age impacts the health of ones sperm, says Dr. T. Mike Hsieh, the director of UCSD Mens Health Center and professor of urology, who notes that increased paternal age is associated with a decline in sperm count, sperm quality, semen volume, testosterone and ability for sexual activity or erectile dysfunction. But one reason for this decline may have to do with how healthy an individual is as a whole, explains Dr. Paul Turek, a urologist and expert on fertility in men. The older a man is, the more likely he is to be exposed to certain environmental factors or develop health conditions that impact fertility by affecting the DNA package of his sperm. Eggs try as hard as they can to fix the DNA early on after fertilization, but if the load of damage is in excess of the eggs capacity to repair it, then there will be no pregnancy or possibly a miscarriage, he says. Wellness, parenting, body image, and more: Get to know the who behind the hoo with Yahoo Lifes newsletter. Sign up here. Carrie Underwood had a major surprise in store for her fans this week, as she dropped an unexpected announcement about some upcoming tour dates. The country songstress, who recently wrapped up her Denim & Rhinestones Tour this spring, revealed that she will be performing as a special guest on select dates of Guns N' Roses' tour this upcoming August. Underwood, 40, is known for being a superfan of the rock band, specifically its frontman Axl Rose, making the news all the more exciting for her. The "Somethin' Bad" artist shared the news in an Instagram post on Wednesday, May 31, revealing that she will be opening up select shows for the band in Canada and the U.S., including their stop in Nashville, Tennessee. View the original article to see embedded media. "SO ready for this!" she exclaimed in the caption. "Im joining @gunsnroses for select dates on their North American Tour in August and I CANNOT WAIT!! " Her fans eagerly accepted the news, with many taking to the comments to celebrate the exciting announcement. "HOLY MOLY THATS AWESOME," one of her followers gushed, while another wrote, "Cant wait to see what your setlist will be for this tour ." "Great move!" someone else chimed in on the post, seemingly noting that Underwood is no stranger to rocking out on stage, making this the perfect gig for her. The country music icon has already teamed up with the band for performances in the past, and she even welcomed Rose on stage during one of her recent shows back in March, where they performed a fiery duet of the band's smash hit, "Welcome to the Jungle." Her fans that know how much she loves the classic rock band were overjoyed by the new opportunity for Underwood, with one person writing, "Oh Carrie, I LOVE THIS FOR YOU!! ," in the comments of her Instagram post. "So happy you get to do this Carrie!!! ," added another. Next: Carrie Underwood Unveils Delicate New Ink Marina Squerciati experienced the beauty of nature's own spa, the Dead Sea, and documented the unbelievably tranquil trip for fans online. The Chicago P.D. actress teased her followers with a glimpse of her recent adventure, sharing a photo and video of her picturesque swim on social media. The new snaps were posted to the 39-year-old's Instagram grid on Wednesday, May 31, and showed the star gracefully splashing in the sea before enjoying an all-natural full-body mud mask. And even though things got a little messy, Squerciati managed to still look super trendy in her red one-piece swimsuit (which she tagged as a JADE Swim design) that featured a classic scoop-cut neckline and spaghetti straps. "Dead Sea. Now you see me..." she quipped in the caption. While the actress didn't tag her pal in the new photos, Squerciati previously shared she was traveling with Torrey DeVittowho also posted a fabulous photo from the location on the picture-sharing platform. Related: 'Chicago PD' Actresses Link Up for Relaxing Spa Day Following Intense Episode "Floating. BRB. " DeVitto, 38, simply captioned the post, which showed the Chicago Med star posing as she floated on her back wearing a chic black one-piece bathing suit and sunglasses. Fans of the two actresses were beyond ecstatic to see them traveling the world together, sharing their delight and even some other suggestions on places to visit in the comments. "Thats so good for your skin!!!" one exclaimed, referring to Squerciati's head-to-toe Dead Sea mineral mud mask. "Israel has such beautiful places to visit. Try also the Mesada and the old city of Jerusalem, including the Mahne Yehuda market. Enjoy!!" another added. "marina be like but fr tho she slaysss love u marina," a third gushed. Story continues A few of DeVitto's followers also recalled their trips to the Dead Sea, suggesting the star extend her trip and visit Jordan's side of the salt lake. "Was in the Jordan side last year - amazing!!!" one wrote. "Next stop Jordan's dead sea ," another shared. Related: Andie MacDowell and Helen Mirren Both Used a TikTok-Famous Foundation at Cannes That's Now Just $9 on Amazon From the looks of it, the two have been on vacation for about a week. And before diving into the Dead Sea, they enjoyed an array of adventuresfrom wine tastings to intense workouts and international meet-ups with friends. Next: 'Chicago Med' Alum Shares Cheeky Bikini Photo From Costa Rica Vacation The Future of Travel column is a monthly series exploring the innovations and bold ideas moving travel forward. In the small city of Ostuni in southern Italy, a group of remote workers and digital nomads arrive at a community center to meet a troupe of Italian grandmothers, or nonnas, for a pasta making class. They gather around tables to watch as the nonnas demonstrate how to slice and smash strips of hand-rolled dough to make orecchiette, one of the Apulia regions signature pasta dishes. For locals, the culinary ritual is a familiar one, but for these newly arrived digital nomads, it's a unique glimpse into the traditions of their temporary new home. You have this type of cooking class in Italy now, but theyre quite touristic, says Serena Chironna, co-founder of KINO Italy, which organizes month-long coworking retreats in lesser-known corners of Italy, where villages are at risk of extinction, and small cities like Ostuni are popular tourist destinations for only a couple months a year. But in this case, we went to the elderly center, where theyd go every day to play cards. We cooked together and we danced. And it was something you would never do, like, dancing with some local grandmothers. The community center visit is just one of the many activities Chironna coordinates with KINO, where remote workers can pay a flat rate to get a month of accommodation, access to a co-working space, and experience social outings with locals. Its among a new crop of similar programs rolling out across Europe including the EU-backed Nomadland Project; six-month program Summer of Pioneers, which takes digital nomads to rural villages in Germany; a platform funded by the Spanish government promoting 42 rural villages; and Chateau Coliving, a 12th-century castle in rural Normandy converted into a coliving space for digital nomads. These programs all share a common goal: lure digital nomads and remote workers away from hot spots experiencing an anti-digital nomad backlash to areas struggling with depopulation, where they believe younger talent with money to spend might reinvigorate struggling economies. But can digital nomads dancing with nonnas actually help save Europes fading villages? A growing number of entrepreneurs and policy makers say the answer might be yes. Story continues Andrea Edelman Kay The nomad boom is changing where we work and travel Programs like KINO aim to help smaller regions ride the wave of digital nomadism, while also avoiding its pitfalls. Theres no census to tell us precisely how many digital nomads there are, but estimates suggest the population has exploded in recent years. A 2022 survey by MBO Partners found the number of American digital nomads was up more than 130 percent from 2019 to 2022, reaching an estimated 16.9 million. And theres significant money in the addressable market, which in 2021 Skift Research estimated was worth more than $1 billion. Yet while leaders in the scene have been speaking about the potential benefits destinations might see in attracting digital nomads, its an increasingly contentious topic. Many argue that they are invariably transforming the destinations they gravitate toand not necessarily in positive ways. Think rising living costs in destinations like Lisbon and Mexico City, residential homes turned into short-term rentals, and the social fabric of neighborhoods shifting to cater to higher-earning transients. And the trend is reshaping not only the geography of work but also the way we travel, says Prithwiraj Choudhury, associate professor at Harvard Business School, who has extensively researched the topic: Digital nomadism has definitely taken off as the work-from-anywhere phenomena has taken off. Even as some companies wrestle with employees over return-to-office policies, he predicts the rise in digital nomadism is here to stay. It reflects the convergence of several trends: the unprecedented shift to remote work through the pandemic lockdowns; the resulting interest among white-collar workers in extended trips blending work and travel; and a host of younger companies pursuing remote-only strategies, which Choudhury says is another big driver of the phenomena, citing startups like Zapier and Doist as examples. Another sign of the trends staying power is the growing number of countries openly competing to attract higher-earning nomads and remote workers. In the past two years, dozens of governments have launched so-called digital nomad visas, with the latest being Spain and Columbia. Choudhury has analyzed these emerging visa schemes, and believes his research shows they could boost economies through dollars spent as well as business and cultural connections between locals and nomads. And in line with the goals of Europes off-the-beaten-path digital nomad programs, he observes that areas outside of major cities show the most potential to benefit. The smaller cities have lost a lot of people. This is a great opportunity to redistribute talent, he says. For society, its a good thing. But, of course, locals in nomad hot spots have cautionary tales to tell. Andrea Edelman Kay So, what actually happens when the MacBook crowds descend Right now, most digital nomads and remote workers tend to gravitate to a couple dozen urban destinations. For a real-time look at which of these cities are trending, glance over the Nomad List, a popular website where digital nomads search for their next destination using filters ranging from cheap places to the questionable places with attractive women. In mid-2021, Lisbon saw a surge of trips logged by Nomad List users, pushing it up in the rankings. Its popularity among nomads has reached a flashpoint. As the international tech conference Web Summit took place in the Portuguese capital this past November, protesters gathered outside on opening night, criticizing the governments courting of digital nomads and wealthy foreigners. In the past year, similar protests have recently occurred in other digital nomad centers like Mexico City, where demonstrators encouraged remote workers to stay away. Cost of living and gentrification are central concerns. Its not all the fault of digital nomads, says Dave Cook, an anthropologist at University College London whos been studying digital nomads for nearly a decade. But when were faced with the idea that remote work is now mainstream and there are going to be millions more nomads coming online, places like Lisbon are going to really feel the pinch. They said it raises questions about this idea that its all going to trickle down while people are being displaced. Cook has specifically seen how digital nomads are reshaping the urban environment in Chiang Mai, Thailand where theyve spent years studying digital nomads impacts. Along with the obvious coworking spaces, specific changes theyve noticed include a rise in yoga studios, vegan fast food, and people visibly around the city on laptops. Rather than connecting with the locals, digital nomads more often form their own bubbles and hang out with fellow remote workers, Cook says. The Digital Nomads Madeira project on the Portuguese island of Madeira, launched in 2021, is one mixed-bag example they cite. Last year, journalist Susana Ferreira embedded herself in the island parish Ponta do Sol and reported for Wired that the surge in digital nomad arrivals had a mixed reception among locals, as rent fast outpaces wages and short-term spots are on the rise. Cook says this speaks to one of the paradoxes at the heart of the digital nomad lifestyle: Digital nomads talk quite a lot about the healing power of travel and immersing themselves in the local culture. I don't think it's for a cynical reason but it very rarely actually happens. Andrea Edelman Kay Can fading villages avoid over-nomadism? It matters how involved locals are in designing programs aiming to attract digital nomads to their communities in the first place. Harvards Choudhury says: How you foster a connection between locals and nomads will determine how the community benefits. This is where the new wave of projects in more rural areas hopes to chart a different course than what we've seen thus far. Digital nomads have received a lot of backlash from big cities, says Drejc Kokosar, co-founder of the ID20 Institute and one of the minds behind the Nomadland Project, When we're talking about the countryside, it's a little bit different because we are talking here about the areas that are losing people. The whole of Europe is talking about outmigration from the countryside, but nobody is really focused on how to attract new people, says Kokosar. He believes when planned by locals, digital nomad projects can be a net positiveand maybe even save some villages from slipping off the map. Thats one reason KINO, which Nomadland promotes, aims to forge deeper relationships with residents. Before launching KINO last year with her business partner, Andrea Mammoliti, Chironna spent several months in Madeira, which she described as quite a bubble, albeit successful in attracting a diverse crowd. She aimed to learn from those successes, while doing something unique in rural Italy where destinations can cater more specifically to digital nomads interested in visiting during a slower time of year. The kinds of digital nomad and remote workers drawn to an island getaway or an urban stay in, say, Lisbon, at high season, are quite distinct from those looking for a more rural village or small city experience, she reasons. And in these destinations, Chironna hopes to show locals theres an alternative to to mass tourism, even when presented under the guise of digital nomadism. Remote workers can be a part of that alternative by both creating opportunities for local businesses beyond short-term tourists and maybe even inspiring younger Italians to pick up the kind of remote jobs that enable them to return to the places they left, she says. But the responsibility for managing these programs well needs to be shared by the remote workers, too. I see my role as to encourage nomads to work and travel with a little more intention and kindness, says Cook, who cites visiting more rural areas over the same crowded spots as an example of that intentionality. Get involved with these conversations. Don't just presume that because you have a strong passport, that you can travel and work with impunity. In other words, if you are a digital nomad, target the villages where the pasta-making grandmas are actually looking for a dance. And with KINO, you might have a shot at that kind of engagement. When I chat with Chironna, she has a hoarse voice. Last Saturday, we left a wine place at 4 a.m. We spent the night playing guitar and singing with locals, she says. Hence, probably, my condition." Originally Appeared on Conde Nast Traveler BEIJING, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping recently wrote back to Bangladeshi child Alifa Chin, encouraging her to study hard, pursue her dream and carry forward the traditional friendship between China and Bangladesh. Noting that Chin's story shared in the letter is a good example of the friendship between the two countries, Xi said that since ancient times, the Chinese and the Bangladeshi have been close neighbors and good friends, whose friendly exchanges date back over a thousand years. More than 600 years ago, Zheng He, a Chinese navigator of the Ming Dynasty, sailed twice to Bangladesh, sowing the seeds of friendship between the two peoples, the Chinese president said. Over 600 years later, during a friendship and humanitarian voyage of "The Peace Ark," a China's navy hospital ship, a Chinese female military doctor helped Chin's mother get through a dangerous time and give birth to her in Chittagong. And Chin's father named her after the Bangladeshi word for China. It is a very touching story of friendship between China and Bangladesh, Xi said. The Chinese president said he is very glad to know that Chin wants to be a China-Bangladesh friendship messenger when she grows up, and wishes to study at a medical school in China in the future so that she can save lives just like her "Chinese mother." Expressing his hope that Chin will make best use of her youthful years and study hard to make her dream come true, Xi said that by then she will be able to give back to her family, contribute to the society, and serve her country. As the World Children's Day is coming, Xi said he wishes Chin good health, a happy family and every success at school. When Chin was born in 2010, her mother suffered from a difficult delivery due to a severe heart problem. At that time, "The Peace Ark," the visiting hospital ship, received help and immediately sent military doctors to the local hospital to perform a caesarean section under great pressure. Finally, the mother and daughter were safe. To show gratitude, the father named the baby "Chin," which means "China" in Bengali. Find out how Sevier County residents and workers can unlock this philanthropic deal. Editorial RF/Getty Images Dollywood has shared the details of its annual thank-you gift to the people of Sevier County. As part of "Sevier County Days," Dolly Parton is inviting everyone who lives or works in Sevier County, Tennessee, to visit her Dollywood and Splash Country theme parks for a $5 donation. All net proceeds will go to benefit Sevier County Food Ministries. Sevier County Days will take place at Splash Country from June 5-11 and at Dollywood from June 12-18. To unlock this philanthropic deal, Sevier County residents will need to present a state or federally-issued photo ID with a valid Sevier County zip code. Sevier County workers must present proof of employment along with a photo ID matching their paycheck stub. Full details and eligible zip codes can be found here. You can only use this offer once, so choose wisely! Just don't expect to see Dolly on any of the rides when you're there. "I don't want my hair to fly off right on national television or something!" she once said of her aversion to theme park rides. Dollywood has been supporting Sevier County Food Ministries since 1998, and has made a total of $1.4 million in contributions since. Parton, who grew up in Sevierville, has spent her career giving back to the community that raised her. The songstress has spearheaded an assortment of philanthropic endeavors including the Dollywood Foundation and her world-famous Imagination Library. Partons My People Fund raised more than $12 million for the families who lost their homes in the 2016 fires that devastated the area. Last year, Parton was one of six awarded for making the world a better place with the prestigious 2022 Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy. In an interview with Vogue at the time, Parton explained where her famous focus on philanthropy work stems from and how she's not one to "hide under the covers" when things get hard or scary. Story continues "I grew up in a very open-hearted, faith-based family. You're taught to love and be accepting, and to give more than you receive. Both sides of my family are funny, tender-hearted, good people," the country legend said. "Whether you believe in God or not, you need to be grounded; you need to believe in something greater than yourself. We grew up thinking that other people are just as important as we are. I wrote a song that's going to be in my Christmas movie special in December. And it goes, 'Whoever you are, be that. Whatever you do, do that. Anything else is just an act.'" For more Southern Living news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Southern Living. SOUTH BEND A Sauk Village, Ill., man found guilty in March of the October 2022 gang-related murders at the Waterford Glen Apartments in South Bend was sentenced to 75 years in prison after a bench trial before St. Joseph Superior Court Judge John Marnocha. On Wednesday, Marnocha sentenced Tyrik Rayford, 24, to a total of 75 years for the Oct. 22, 2020, deaths of Malik Balderos, 21, and Ricky Kinds Jr., 20, both of South Bend. During a bench trial, Marnocha found Rayford guilty of felony counts of murder and conspiracy to commit murder in addition to a firearm enhancement. More: Illinois man found guilty of gang-related murders in South Bend Rayford received 55 years for the murder conviction and 30 years for the conspiracy charge to be served concurrently. With the conviction for the firearm sentencing enhancement, Rayford was sentenced to 20 years to be served consecutively to the murder and conspiracy count, adding up to the 75 years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. Officials believe the October 2020 shooting of Balderos and Kinds was gang-related, and court documents say the ballistic evidence shows at least eight separate weapons were fired in the murders at the Waterford Glen Apartments. In addition to Rayford, three other men faced criminal charges for the shooting, which was the culmination of a series of events that began with the murder of 16-year-old Frederick Williams on Oct. 17, 2020. October 2020: Two killed in overnight shooting at South Bend apartment complex Documents allege Frederick was affiliated with "the West Side" and, during a memorial vigil for Frederick on Oct. 22, 2020, a number of people gathered with weapons where investigators said a person in the group indicated someone was going to "pay for this." In August 2022, Lance Dawson agreed to a plea deal in the case in exchange for his testimony against Darius Vaughn and Dijon Davis, who had also been charged in the shooting, with aiding, inducing or causing murder and conspiracy to commit murder, as well as a criminal gang sentencing enhancement. Davis also received a firearm sentencing enhancement. Criminal proceedings against Vaughn and Davis are pending. Email Tribune staff writer Greg Swiercz at gswiercz@sbtinfo.com. This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Illinois man sentenced for 2020 double-murder at Waterford Glen apartments Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen A well-tended lawn can boost a homes curb appeal and give homeowners a sense of pride. But DIY lawn care is hard, tedious work, and many homeowners simply dont have the time theyd like to be able to dedicate to their lawn. For these customers, hiring a lawn care company makes sensethey can still get the benefits of a lush, green lawn without spending hours doing backbreaking work. When it comes to choosing a lawn care company, homeowners will notice two names come up frequently: Lawn Doctor and TruGreen. But which company can provide the best service for busy homeowners? When comparing Lawn Doctor versus TruGreen, potential customers will find a lot of similarities, and while both lawn maintenance companies are solid choices, theres one that comes out on top. About Lawn Doctor Lawn Doctor was founded in 1967 in Matawan, New Jersey, by friends Bob Magda and Tony Giordano. Magda owned a hardware store and often had customers come by to ask advice about lawn care, which led to weekly lawn care workshops in Magdas store every Sunday to help educate customers on how to grow and maintain a lush and healthy lawn. Eventually, Magda and Giordano started Lawn Doctor to provide professional lawn care services to local homeowners. Today, Lawn Doctor has locations around the country and services 40 states through more than 600 franchise locations. The company creates customized lawn care plans to help homeowners grow green and healthy lawns and address any specific issues they have. About TruGreen Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen How We Compared Photo: istockphoto.com Like Lawn Doctor, TruGreen has been around for decades. The company was founded in 1973 in Troy, Michigan, with the goal of helping people achieve a healthy and lush lawn, no matter how many visits or treatments it takes. TruGreen still lives by that philosophy, providing science-based solutions designed to maximize lawn health year-round. TruGreen is a franchise business that services more than 2.3 million customers and has over 300 branches in the contiguous U.S. Its one of the largest lawn care companies in the country thanks to its commitment to creating healthy lawns by performing customized services and advising customers on the best way to maintain their lawns for long-term health. Story continues How We Compared Lawn Care Services Reputation: As with any type of business, its important for customers to consider the reputation of the lawn care providers theyre considering. We reviewed Lawn Doctor and TruGreens reputations by looking at the history of each company and considering their online presence. Service area: The service area of a lawn care company is an important consideration for customers to keep in mind; after all, if a company theyre researching doesnt offer service in their area, the customer can cross that company off their list and move on. We compared Lawn Doctor and TruGreens service area to see which one cast the widest net. Treatment plans: Lawn care companies typically offer several different treatment plans for customers to choose from, depending on their lawn care goals. We evaluated the treatment plans offered by Lawn Doctor and TruGreen to see which company offered the most varied treatment plans to suit a wider range of customers. Product ingredients: The ingredients used on a customers lawn are an important considerationespecially for customers who want to make sure they go about their lawn care in a sustainable way. We compared ingredients in Lawn Doctor and TruGreen products, looking for transparency and natural ingredients designed to be kind to the environment. Additional services: Although lawn care is the main service offered by Lawn Doctor and TruGreen, both also offer additional services such as pest control and tree or shrub care. We compared and contrasted each companys additional services to see whether anything stood out. Cost: Customers looking to hire local lawn care services will often look at cost as a major factor. We obtained quotes where possible and read customers experiences with costs at each company to determine which offered the best value. Guarantees: A guarantee shows a customer that a company stands behind its work. We looked into the guarantees offered by TruGreen and Lawn Doctor to get an idea of what customers could expect after a service visit. Customer reviews: Reading the reviews of customers who have experience working with different lawn care companies can give prospective customers a better idea of what to expect. Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen: Reputation Both Lawn Doctor and TruGreen are well-known names in the lawn care industry. Both companies have decades of experience caring for the lawns of customers across the country. But TruGreen has a larger social media presence, with more followers and more frequent posts than Lawn Doctor on both Facebook and Twitter. TruGreen also appears to have more customer feedback than its competitor. However, customers will want to note that Lawn Doctor still has a strong online reputation; its just that TruGreens internet footprint is larger than Lawn Doctors. Since Lawn Doctor and TruGreen are both franchise businesses, customers may find that their local franchise has a better reputation than one the next state over. To learn more about the local reputation of Lawn Doctor, TruGreen, and other lawn care companies, customers can search online for lawn treatment near me or lawn experts near me. Verdict: TruGreen is a well-known company with a robust online presence. It has more followers on social media and seems to have more customer feedback than Lawn Doctoreven though Lawn Doctor has been in business for 6 years longer than TruGreen. Winner: TruGreen Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen: Service Area Service area is an important consideration for customers when looking for a lawn care companyafter all, if a company doesnt offer service in their area, there will be no way for the customer to hire that company for their lawn care needs. Luckily, both TruGreen and Lawn Doctor have a nationwide footprint, which means customers in most locations will be able to find a Lawn Doctor or TruGreen location near them. However, Lawn Doctor has a slight advantage over TruGreen when it comes to service area. When a customer hires either company to care for their lawn, theyll essentially be working with a local branch or franchise, and Lawn Doctor has more locations than TruGreenaround 600 compared to TruGreens 300. This may make it easier for a customer to find a local Lawn Doctor service provider than a TruGreen provider, which can be beneficial for customers who live in areas where TruGreen locations are more sparse. Verdict: Both Lawn Doctor and TruGreen are lawn care companies with presences spread throughout the United States, though customers have a greater chance of having access to Lawn Doctors services. Lawn Doctor has at least 600 locations, while TruGreen has at least 300. Winner: Lawn Doctor Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen Photo: istockphoto.com Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen: Treatment Plans Customers will want to know exactly what is offered in a lawn care companys treatment plan before signing a service contract. TruGreen is transparent about whats included in its various treatment plans, so customers will know what to expect before they even reach out to TruGreen for a quote. TruGreen also combines different types of service in its treatment plans, so a customer who wants a basic lawn care plan wont end up paying for tree care services they dont need, and vice versa. TruGreens treatment plans are detailed in the table below. TruGreen Treatment Plans Available Plans Details TruMaintenance 7 applications per year; includes weed control and fertilization TruHealth 8 applications per year; includes everything in TruMaintenance plus grub prevention and control TruComplete 8 applications per year; includes everything in TruHealth plus aeration and overseeding TruSignature 8 applications per year; includes everything in TruComplete plus shrub and tree care Mosquito Control 4 applications per year Where TruGreen is transparent about whats included in its plans, Lawn Doctor customers will need to do some digging or call and speak to a representative to find out what specific services are included in Lawn Doctors treatment plans. This can make it harder for customers to fully research and compare Lawn Doctor against its competitorsthough some customers may prefer to work with a representative to better understand the available plans before choosing the best one for them. Lawn Doctors treatment plans, along with any available details, are listed in the table below. Lawn Doctor Treatment Plans Available Plans Details Fertilization and Weeds 6 to 8 treatments per year; includes fertilization, pre-emergent weed control, and broadleaf weed and crabgrass control Aeration and Seeding Proprietary power-seeding procedure Mosquito Control 5 to 8 applications per year Tick Control No application details provided Perimeter Pest Control No application details provided Customers looking for up-front information about included services will likely prefer working with a TruGreen lawn specialist, though Lawn Doctor does claim to offer a one-of-a-kind lawn care service plan designed to meet each customers needs. Verdict: Both Lawn Doctor and TruGreen offer annual plans that start with lawn assessments and consist of up to eight visits per year. However, TruGreen is transparent about each of its plans details, providing comprehensive services that combine essential lawn tasks for smooth scheduling, while Lawn Doctor does not offer as much information up front. Winner: TruGreen Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen: Product Ingredients As homeowners gain a better understanding of how lawn care products can affect their local environment, many are turning to more natural products with the aim of preserving pollinator populations and maintaining a clean water supply. These customers will likely place a high priority on the ingredients a lawn care company uses before signing a contract. Luckily, both Lawn Doctor and TruGreen offer organic fertilizer and herbicide options to allow customers to enjoy a lush lawn while also helping preserve the environment. TruGreens TruNatural plan uses products it describes as 100 percent natural, though its not transparent about the specific ingredients in these products. However, TruGreen advises that its products have the following characteristics: TruGreen products are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). TruGreen does not use products that are known skin sensitizers or that are known to cause allergic reactions. TruGreen does not use products that contain known or suspected human carcinogens. TruGreen does not use products that are known or suspected to leach to groundwater. Lawn Doctor claims that many of the products it uses in its standard services are natural and nature-safe. But with Lawn Doctor, customers can opt to use natural or organic products in any service plan if they prefersince the lawn treatment plans are customized to each customers specific needs, this allows Lawn Doctor to use products that best align with the customers preferences and values. When it comes to product ingredients and natural lawn care products, customers typically cant go wrong with either choicethough its advisable for customers to ask each lawn care service about its product ingredients before signing a contract if this is something they feel strongly about. Verdict: Lawn Doctor and TruGreen both offer conventional as well as organic fertilizer and herbicide solutions. These greener lawn solutions are a benefit to customers who prefer to avoid harsher chemicals on their lawns. Winner: Tie Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen: Additional Services Many lawn companies offer additional services beyond the typical lawn care services, such as fertilization and weed control. Both Lawn Doctor and TruGreen offer a number of additional services designed to help customers address all their lawn concerns rather than needing to use separate companies for different tasks. For example, Lawn Doctor offers the following services on top of its more traditional lawn care services. Yard Armour Mosquito Control: Offers three levels of protection against disease-carrying mosquitoes to help prevent and control mosquitoes and maintain a mosquito-free yard all season long. Tick control: Helps prevent ticks from hitching a ride on two- or four-legged family members. Grub control: Applies an insecticide to help kill grubs that can damage the lawn. Perimeter Pest Control: Helps prevent pests, such as fleas, silverfish, spiders, and ticks, from entering a home by applying pest control products around the homes perimeter. Fire ant control: Provides treatment to permanently rid a yard of fire ants. Additionally, Lawn Doctor offers special event sprays where a customer can hire the company to spray their lawn if they have an upcoming outdoor event, such as a wedding or a family reunion, to help decrease the likelihood of mosquitoes biting guests. This can be a helpful service for customers who may not need regular mosquito control but want to make sure their guests are comfortable at their outdoor event. In addition to its lawn care services, TruGreen also offers pest control services as well as other specialized services, such as the following. Soil Amendment Services: Designed to assess and balance the pH of the soil to allow it to better absorb fertilizer for better overall lawn health. Lawn Disease Service: Diagnoses lawn issues caused by disease or fungus and develops a plan to target the root cause of the problem. Outdoor Nuisance Pest Control Plan: Targets ticks, fleas, chiggers, earwigs, ants (not including fire ants), and spiders. Perimeter Pest Control: Treats around the perimeter of the home to prevent pests from entering. TruGreen Mosquito Defense: Uses a professional-grade mosquito repellent to control mosquito populations within 24 hours. Although both companies additional services are extensive, TruGreen comes out slightly ahead of Lawn Doctor thanks to offerings such as soil amendment and lawn disease services. Verdict: Beyond lawn care, TruGreen and Lawn Doctor provide lawn pest control and tree and shrub care. Lawn Doctor offers an array of specific pest management programs along with targeted tick treatment, which can be a benefit for homes with pets that spend time outdoors. However, TruGreen offers a more comprehensive range of lawn services, including soil amendment and lawn disease treatment, along with outdoor pest treatment. Winner: TruGreen Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen: Cost The cost of a service is often the deciding factor for customers looking to hire for lawn care. Ideally, customers will be able to find pricing information easily online so they can determine whether a companys services will fit within their budget before getting a quote. Since the cost of lawn care services depends on numerous factors (such as the size of the lawn and the homes geographic location), customers will need to do some digging to find pricing information for TruGreen or Lawn Doctor. TruGreen does make the process slightly easier, though. Customers can enter their information on the TruGreen website, including their contact information and address, their lawn care goals, and the specific area of lawn theyre wanting to treat. Theyll then get a list of recommended TruGreen plans and pricing specific to the customers lawn. This will be the price the customer will pay, so there are no surprises; however, getting a quote means TruGreen has the customers contact information and may continue to email or call them even if they choose not to hire TruGreen. On the other hand, Lawn Doctor prices arent listed on the companys website, and customers cannot get an instant quote online for their lawn plan. Although customers can request a quote online by entering their name, address, and contact information, theyll get a notification that the company will be in touch with them to discuss their project and determine pricing; theres no way to get a price estimate online. This can be limiting for customers who want to have an idea of pricing before speaking with a representative. Customers can also search online to see real quotes provided by both TruGreen and Lawn Doctor. In doing so, theyll likely notice that TruGreen costs appear to be lower than Lawn Doctors, which may push customers on a limited budget toward TruGreen for their lawn care needs. Verdict: Lawn Doctor doesnt provide pricing information online or even by direct inquiry. On the other hand, TruGreen customers can fill out an online form and receive a pricing quote almost instantly. Based on some quotes reported by customers, TruGreen also appears to have lower average prices than Lawn Doctor. Winner: TruGreen Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen Photo: istockphoto.com Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen: Guarantees No matter the type of company a customer is hiring, its important to look for any applicable guarantees that can help customers feel confident about hiring that company. Lawn Doctor and TruGreen both offer guarantees on their services and will make a return visit to a customer any time between scheduled treatments if the customer is not happy with the results. The Lawn Doctor guarantee is simple: If youre not 100% satisfiedwell make it right. After the customers lawn has been treated by Lawn Doctor, they can reach out to the company if they are at all dissatisfied with the progress, and Lawn Doctor will return, free of charge, to reapply the application or refund the cost of the previous application. TruGreens guarantee is very similar. If a customer isnt satisfied with their lawn after an application, the company will return to examine the lawn and reapply the treatment if needed, free of charge, between scheduled treatments. These guarantees speak to both companies commitment to their customers and their products, as these return visits are offered at no extra cost to the customer. Verdict: Lawn Doctor and TruGreen offer satisfaction guarantees and promise to return to a customers property between treatments for no extra charge if theyre unhappy with the results, which signals strong commitment to customer satisfaction. Winner: Tie Lawn Doctor vs. TruGreen: Customer Reviews Comparing online customer reviews can be a good way for homeowners to gauge which lawn care company will be the best fit for them. Lawn Doctor and TruGreen both have mixed reviews, with positive reviews praising both the lawn care services and the customer service representatives at both companies, and negative reviews claiming the opposite. For example, TruGreen has a 1.5 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot, while Lawn Doctors Trustpilot rating is 3.2 out of 5. Trugreen also has a relatively low rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of 1.09 out of 5; however, on Consumer Affairs, the companys rating is a much better 3.8 out of 5. With mixed reviews, it can be hard for potential customers to sift through and make a determination regarding which company has the most positive or least negative reviews. Its important for customers to note, however, that a disgruntled customer is often much more likely to leave a negative review than a happy customer, which may explain why nationwide companies such as Lawn Doctor and TruGreen have such mixed bags of reviews. When doing their research, potential customers will want to take negative reviews with a grain of salt and check whether the company has responded to negative reviews in an effort to make things right for the customera company that takes the time to acknowledge its customers poor experiences is much more likely to be willing to work with a customer should they, too, have a bad experience. Customers will also want to seek out Lawn Doctor reviews and TruGreen reviews on reputable websites to more fully understand each companys pros and cons. Overall, TruGreen and Lawn Doctor are relatively similar, which means that neither company stands out against the other in this category. Verdict: Online customer reviews are mixed for both Lawn Doctor and TruGreen. Positive reviews of both companies cite professional technicians and favorable results. However, there are unfavorable reviews of both companies that note poor lawn outcomes and negative customer service interactions. Overall, though, Lawn Doctor garners more praise in online reviews than TruGreen. Winner: Lawn Doctor Verdict: With over 50 years in business, over 300 locations nationwide, and comprehensive lawn care plans customized to nearly every type of property, TruGreen is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a hired lawn care service. Lawn Doctors wide availability and reports of friendly technicians make it another solid choice for customers looking for lawn care, especially if outdoor pests are the problem. TruGreen is a top choice for homeowners looking for a reputable lawn care company that offers a wide range of services at a relatively low price. Customers can review services and get an instant quote online without needing to speak to a representative, and they can choose from a variety of plans designed to meet homeowners differing lawn needs. However, Lawn Doctor is a strong contender, especially for customers looking for specialized outdoor pest control services such as fire ant control or one-time mosquito spraying for special events. The best lawn care services for each homeowner will depend on their specific needsand most homeowners will find their needs covered by either TruGreen or Lawn Doctor. FAQs Customers preparing to hire a lawn care company likely have a lot of questionsand once theyve gotten to the point of comparing Lawn Doctor versus TruGreen, they may start feeling slightly overwhelmed. The following frequently asked questions can help potential customers better understand lawn care offerings from TruGreen and Lawn Doctor so they are confident theyre making an informed decision when theyre ready to hire. Q. Does TruGreen offer natural lawn care? TruGreen offers a natural lawn care service called TruNatural designed specifically for customers who are concerned about the effects traditional lawn care products such as fertilizer may have on the environment. TruNatural plans only use 100 percent natural fertilizer to help a customers lawn grow full and lush without the use of chemicals. Q. How much does Lawn Doctor cost? Although Lawn Doctor doesnt publicize its price structure, research suggests that customers can expect to pay between $928 and $2,900 per year for Lawn Doctor services. Q. How long does TruGreen take to work? The exact amount of time customers can expect to wait before they see results from TruGreen will depend on the type of treatment applied and the original state of the lawn. TruGreen claims that customers will see a decline in weed growth between 10 and 14 days after the initial treatment, and recommends customers choose a year-round plan to see lasting results. TruGreen competitors will likely offer similar results, though customers are advised to check this information with each company theyre considering. Q. What chemicals do Lawn Doctor and TruGreen use? The answer to this question depends on the types of treatment a customer chooses. Both Lawn Doctor and TruGreen will typically use ingredients such as the ones listed in the Lawn Doctor product labels page, including synthetic fertilizers, selective herbicides, insecticides like imidacloprid, and fungicides. Q. What time of year is best for lawn treatment? Its best to fertilize grass at a time when its actively growing. This means fertilizing cool-season grasses in spring or fall, and fertilizing warm-season grasses in late spring or early summer. In general, homeowners will want to wait until the temperature is consistently 55 degrees or higher before fertilizing. Sources: Moyer, Architectural Digest, TruGreen (1) (2) (3), Lawn Doctor (1) (2) Melanie Lynskey and Jason Ritter have a beautiful and long-lasting love story. Both of them have been Hollywood darlings for decades, but Lynskey's recent turn in major TV hit Yellowjackets have brought up their adorable relationship again. It's well worth reviewing. The pair met on set while filming The Big Ask in 2013 and started dating soon after. Their chemistry was so good in the dramedy and in real life that they were also cast in the 2014 rom-com We'll Never Have Paris and 2016's The Intervention. Ten years after they first met, they have a daughter and a beautiful marriage. Here is Lynskey and Ritter's complete relationship timeline. 2013: Lynskey and Ritter met on set for The Big Ask, though they did not yet play a couple. Later that same year, they promoted the movie at the Gold Coast International Film Festival together alongside producer Karina Miller. 2014: In early January 2014, the pair were photographed together wandering Park City, Utah, during the Sundance Film festival. Gustavo Caballero - Getty Images They starred that year in We'll Never Have Paris, and Ritter was actually cast as Lynskey's brother in the film... which also starred Simon Helberg, Zachary Quinto, and Maggie Grace. For the film's premiere, they made their red caret debut as a couple at SXSW, but were photographed in a group. Michael Loccisano - Getty Images 2015: Ritter accompanied Lynskey to the premiere of HBO's Togetherness, in which she starred. They posed as a couple without any other people in the frame with them. Jeff Kravitz - Getty Images They also attended the 36th College Television Awards together in April 2015: Tommaso Boddi - Getty Images And the Toronto Film Festival in September: John Shearer - Getty Images 2016: For the first time, the real life couple played a fake couple in the 2016 comedy, The Intervention. In a 2016 interview with ScreenCrush, Lynskey said, Well, it was really fun. We had done it before, that was the movie we had met each other on. It was fun; it was just easy. We get along really well. He is just such a sweet, easygoing person. It was nice, he is very easy to be around. He is such a good actor. Story continues They attended Sundance again with actor and director Clea Duvall to promote the film. John Parra - Getty Images February 2017: In 2017, Ritter wished his girl a Happy Valentine's Day on Twitter, which seems to be one of his favorite social media platforms. She replied with a GIF of two dinosaurs kissing. That same month, Lynskey announced that they were engaged while on Hollywood Today Live. Now he's my fiance, she said. Yes, I know, I'm announcing it. She added that he proposed on the sofa and it was cute. December 2018: In December 2018, the couple welcomed their daughter, confirming her birth a month later on Twitter, writing, We feel lucky to have been able to have our news just be for friends and family for a while, but I guess the story got out, so! Yes! @JasonRitter and I had a daughter in December. We love her so much; she's perfect. Thanks to everyone for your sweet messages. We feel lucky to have been able to have our news just be for friends and family for a while, but I guess the story got out, so! Yes! @JasonRitter and I had a daughter in December. We love her so much; shes perfect. Thanks to everyone for your sweet messages Melanie Lynskey (@melanielynskey) February 1, 2019 In another tweet, she thanked the staff at Northside Hospital in Atlanta, and also corrected some misconceptions about her husband. The good thing about our news being put out there is that now I do get to publicly thank the wonderful doctors and the amazing heroic caring brilliant nurses of @NSH_Maternity in Atlanta. From labor & delivery to post partum, every one was an angel and Im eternally grateful Melanie Lynskey (@melanielynskey) February 1, 2019 I would like to correct a couple of things that have been stated in articles online, she wrote. 1) Jason was NOT in Boy Meets World and wow that would have been pretty easy to check 2) I did NOT welcome the baby quietly, I was blasting A$AP Rocky and yelling a lot. October 2019: While promoting his Netflix show Raising Dion, Ritter told People a bit about new fatherhood. The best part about being a dad is justI feel like she and I have a special connection where we sort of get in trouble together, he said. She's a little adventurer. She wants to get into everything and try to climb things, and I'm, like, trying to help her. He added that being a dad requires a lot of time and focus, and there's a certain exhaustion level that comes into play, lack of sleep. May 2020: The couple had apparently not been planning to get married, but decided to go for it during the COVID-19 lockdown. In 2022, Lynskey told SiriusXM's Jess Cagle that she was heading to Canada to shoot Yellowjackets and was told that quarantine rules would prevent Ritter from joining her at the time. Honestly, I got married because someone was like, Jason won't get into Canada unless you're married, which just wasn't true, she explained. We were waiting until like after the [pandemic]. She continued, I was going to Canada for Yellowjackets, and I was on the phone with somebody, and they said, Oh, he won't be allowed in. And I was like, We have a child. What? I can't leave for six months. So, I was like, We have to get married tomorrow. They were married on their front porch and joined by their friends William Jackson Harper and Ali Ahn. We got married on our front porch of our little rental house in Atlanta. A nice lady came and married us. We had two friends there. Ali Ahn and William Jackson Harper, she said. They brought a cake and flowers and everything we needed. It was actually a very fun wedding day, but it didn't need to happen. He could totally have gotten into Canada. For their two-year anniversary, Lynskey shared a picture of the big day. November 2021: Ritter accompanied Lynskey to the premiere of Yellowjackets. Alberto E. Rodriguez - Getty Images January 2022: The show Lynskey married Ritter to film, Yellowjackets, was released in late 2021 and became a breakaway hit. Though most fans were celebrating her performance, Lysnkey said she got a fair amount of body shaming for being larger than she was in her teen years. She shared her frustration with people equating thinness to health on Twitter. The story of my life since Yellowjackets premiered. Most egregious are the I care about her health!! peoplebitch you dont see me on my Peleton! You dont see me running through the park with my child. Skinny does not always equal healthy https://t.co/W2poMmsv1p Melanie Lynskey (@melanielynskey) January 29, 2022 Ritter quote-tweeted his wife, saying, If anyone has any further unsolicited comments about *anybody* else's body, they can feel free to write them in permanent ink onto their own foreheads and swan dive directly into the sun. If anyone has any further unsolicited comments about *anybody* elses body, they can feel free to write them in permanent ink onto their own foreheads and swan dive directly into the sun https://t.co/5UyaHmR4JS Jason Ritter (@JasonRitter) January 29, 2022 She also shared a photo that month of Ritter wearing some merch for the show, because he's her number one fan. February 2022: Lynskey celebrate her husband's birthday on Instagram with a picture of him holding their daughter up in the sky, writing, Happy birthday, beautiful husband. Thank you for making me cry with laughter daily. Thank you for giving our little daughter the safest, most joyful, most loving childhood. You are so fun. You are so kind, to everyone, even mean people. You are just the best person. And you are very very very very handsome and I love you with all my heart @jason_ritter. March 2022: For her role in Yellowjackets, Lynskey won the 2022 Critics' Choice Award for best actress in a drama series. In her thank you speech, she called Ritter the love of my life and the greatest support. He weighed in with a shoutout for his wife on Twitter, saying, I am sorry to do this and she will be embarrassed that I did this but my GOODNESS what an absolyute beaut my wife is!!! Ok I'm sorry but I mean LOOK at this human being who is also the best person I know. I am sorry to do this and she will be embarrassed that I did this but my GOODNESS what an absolyute beaut my wife is!!! ok Im sorry but I mean LOOK at this human being who is also the best person I know Ok sorry again goodnight thats enough from me but also pic.twitter.com/dKX8Mgrt9Y Jason Ritter (@JasonRitter) March 14, 2022 That same month the couple attended Elton John's annual Academy Awards viewing party and the Vanity Fair Oscar Party. Daniele Venturelli - Getty Images May 2022: Lynskey starred the series Candy alongside Jessica Biel, who plays Candy Montgomery. The Hulu limited series is based on the true story of a woman accused of murdering her neighbor, Betty Gore, in 1980. Lynskey played the part of the doomed neighbor, and Ritter makes a cameo in the show as a police officer along with Biel's husband Justin Timberlake. June 2022: In an interview with People, Lynskey admitted that Candy was great, but her husband would die to be on Yellowjackets. He would do anything, I think. He really would, she said. I mean, I want them to cast whoever they want to cast. I'm not ever going to push my husband on them. But they should know he would do it in a second. July 2022: Lynskey received her first Emmy nomination for her role on Yellowjackets, and Ritter went bananas on Twitter. This is for/about @melanielynskey i should clarify! I was too excited Jason Ritter (@JasonRitter) July 12, 2022 August 2022: For a cover story on InStyle, Lynskey thanked Ritter for making her career renaissance possible with his support as a dad and partner. She said he has turned down life changing roles for the sake of their family. I know balance is not usually like this and I'm lucky, but this should just be how it is, she said. My husband has made a lot of sacrifices and not worked so the family can stay together. September 2022: The couple attended the Emmys together, with Lynskey wearing a dress by Christian Siriano. ROBYN BECK - Getty Images October 3, 2022: Lynskey shared a photo on Instagram of Ritter looking handsome as he smiled in a blue T-shirt. Our daughter said 'mama! Take a picture of Daddy right now!' and you know this kid really does have an eye, she wrote in the caption. December 2022: In an interview with Variety, Lynskey announced Ritter would appear in an episode of Yellowjackets in season two. He's such a wonderful actor and a really nice person, she said. When I came back to work, everyone was like, Your husband is the nicest person! It makes me look smart, like I chose a great partner... He's so good, and it's really fun to get to work with somebody who is creative and interesting and does something different every take, which is what he does. March 2023: The couple appeared together on The Drew Barrymore Show, and talked about how they knew they'd met the one. Ritter admitted it was not as cute of a story as you would like to think, explaining he was struggling with drinking at the time. At a point, I knew how amazing she was, and I thought she would be incredible for someone who deserved her, basically, he said, getting emotional. And I didn't feel like I was that person. I thought [I was] a little bit too crazy. So it was only after like maybe a year into not drinking where I started to go, Oh, maybe I can promise some things to someone else. Maybe I can be this person. It's been like a slow burn. He added, I knew she was incredible. It was working on myself enough to feel like maybe I can be the one for her, too. Lynskey said afterwards, He did so much work on himself. I'm so proud of him. That same month, she celebrated their wedding anniversary with more pics from the small ceremony. In the comments, Ritter wrote, You looked so beautiful that day it was crazy. Ill never forget you demanded I go to the hair salon and get The Cynthia before you would agree to marry me and I am so glad you did. I love you and I am so grateful @aliahn and @williamjacksonharper could be there making up 67% of our guests, not including our daughter. I love you and am looking forward to growing my hair back into that same haircut one day so we can get married again! You Might Also Like TYNDALL A man charged in connection to a triple murder in Scotland, South Dakota appeared inside a Bon Homme County courthouse on Wednesday afternoon for a change of plea hearing where he pleaded guilty but mentally ill to three counts of first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated assault. With his plea, Francis D. Lange, 43, admitted guilt in killing his former girlfriend, Angela Monclova, Librado Monclova and Diane Akins on Nov. 9, 2021 in Scotland. A 5-year-old child and Vicki Monclova were also injured in the incident and were flown to Sioux Falls via helicopter with life-threatening injuries, according to court documents. At Wednesdays hearing, Langes defense read a document signed by Lange in which he said he fired approximately 12 shots after he entered the residence in an argument over a gun he was missing. Francis Lange pleaded guilty but mentally ill on Wednesday to three counts of murder stemming from a triple homicide in Scotland, South Dakota. He was taken into custody without incident approximately an hour after authorities were called at another location in Scotland, according to court documents. Officers located a handgun less than a half block from the scene of the shooting, according to a probable cause affidavit. Through a search warrant, officers located a box for the handgun that matched the serial number of the firearm that was located. An indictment, filed in November of 2021, charged Lange with three counts of first-degree murder, two counts of first-degree attempted murder, two counts of aggravated assault and two counts of commission of a felony while armed with a firearm. Lange was arrested and held on a $2 million bond, according to court documents. More: What we know about the Scotland, South Dakota, shooting that left three dead Josette Lindahl, a psychiatrist at Avera Medical Behavioral Health in Sioux Falls, testified at Wednesdays hearing. Lindahl performed the evaluation for the mental health competency test, in which she said she found Lange was competent to stand trial and was capable and able to understand the charges he was facing. Story continues She also testified that she had diagnosed Lange with schizoaffective disorder and said that his alcohol and substance abuse had made the symptoms worse. Five people were shot at a home on Second Street and Juniper Street in Scotland, South Dakota on Tuesday, Nov. 9. Three of them died and two others were injured. A guilty but mentally ill plea is the same as a guilty plea, South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley explained after the hearing. However, the guilty but mentally ill plea allows for further evaluation and treatment. Lange will face three mandatory life sentences without the chance of parole, plus thirty years for the aggravated assault charges, Jackley said. Lange will not face the death penalty, as the state filed a notice of intent to not seek that penalty in February. Our thoughts and prayers go to the victims, especially the 5-year-old little girl that was seriously injured in the incident, Jackley said. I would also like to specifically extend my appreciation to the paramedics, to the sheriffs deputies and DCI agents through the investigation, as well as the prosecution team that included the states attorney and our criminal chief at the Attorney Generals Office. This was a local effort of the sheriff, the states attorney working with the Attorney General to achieve some justice for the victims families today, Jackley said. This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: South Dakota man pleads guilty but mentally ill in triple homicide Renell Medrano Like many people after a breakup, SZA got blocked by her ex on social media and told others about it. Unlike most people though, those others were a crowd of people, taking in her Portland, Oregon concert during her SOS tour. Word got back to her ex, and he was not happy. SZA spoke candidly to ELLE about why she didnt see an issue with being public about their breakup and how fame has affected her mental health. My exs father just texted me and was like, My son is really hurt about what you said about him to the crowd in Portland, SZA told ELLE, noting that she told the concertgoers about her ex blocking her and saw no issue with the confession since it was the truth. You dont get to block me on everything. Tell our mutual friends terrible things about me like Im a monster, or whatever the case may be. And then I dont get to speak my peace in my way. You go do your healing and Ill do mine. SZA revealed later in the interview that the mental health struggles she goes through are very realand fame has only exacerbated them. Some people think that, like, me having anxiety or me being shy or struggling with self-esteem is an act, SZA said. Im just, dead-ass, a person. Everybody else has feelings and fears. Why wouldnt I be scared to be famous? Would you be scared to be famous? Because Im famous, Im not allowed to be scared? I wasnt born famous. I had regular quiet-ass parents from a small town like everybody else. And I guess at some point Im supposed to acclimate to all of this? You Might Also Like Ugandas President Yoweri Museveni speaks during the 60th Independence Anniversary Celebrations, in Kampala, Uganda on Oct. 9, 2022. On Monday, Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni signed the Anti-homosexuality act which has made punishments for LGBTQ people much harsher than previous legislation. Same-sex relationships were already outlawed in Uganda, which prompted protests from activists internationally. Now, aggravated homosexuality is punishable by the death penalty. This includes same-sex relations involving people who have HIV, children and other vulnerable groups. Attempted aggravated homosexuality is punishable by up to 14 years in prison. In addition, Ugandans who have gay sex can be subjected to life in prison and anyone who tries to have same-sex relations can receive up to 10 years in prison. Read more In a statement, President Biden condemned these heinous laws: The enactment of Ugandas Anti-Homosexuality Act is a tragic violation of universal human rightsone that is not worthy of the Ugandan people, and one that jeopardizes the prospects of critical economic growth for the entire country. I join with people around the worldincluding many in Ugandain calling for its immediate repeal. No one should have to live in constant fear for their life or being subjected to violence and discrimination. It is wrong. In addition, Biden stated he had advised the National Security Council to evaluate the implications of the law on all aspects of U.S. engagement with Uganda, including the ability to safely deliver services under the U.S. Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and other different forms of help and investments. And we are considering additional steps, including the application of sanctions and restriction of entry into the United States against anyone involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption, Biden continued. Currently, only 22 of 54 African nations allow homosexuality. Story continues More from The Root Sign up for The Root's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Alexis Patterson disappeared on her way to Hi-Mount School in Milwaukee on May 3, 2002. She was 7. The latest season of Unsolved, a true-crime podcast for USA TODAY and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, examines the case. The episodes feature exclusive interviews with Alexis' family and more details about the police investigation than has ever been made public before. Unsolved is available on all podcast platforms. During the making of Unsolved, a possible connection emerged between Alexis Patterson and a Wisconsin native named Eric Robert, who was later executed in South Dakota. Here's what to know: Who is Eric Robert? Eric Robert was a Wisconsin native who later began a life of crime in South Dakota. In 2005, he posed as a cop and pulled over a teenage waitress. He told her to get out of the car and then pushed her into the trunk. But he didn't realize she had a cellphone, which she used to call for help. He was convicted of kidnapping and sentenced to 80 years in prison. Eric Robert appears in a Sioux Falls, S.D., court on Oct. 14, 2011 What is Robert's connection to Alexis Patterson? A woman from Cable, Wis., who worked with Robert at the old Telemark Lodge in the 1990s, says she saw Robert rescue a little Black girl who was running into the road on the afternoon of May 3, 2002, the day Alexis disappeared. He also drove a red truck, which some witnesses reportedly saw outside Alexis' school in the weeks before she vanished. Alexis Patterson was 7 when she disappeared in 2002. Could Robert have abducted Alexis Patterson? The police don't think so. The woman who suspected Robert of taking Alexis said the idea had come to her as part of a repressed memory. South Dakota reporter John Hult said on the Unsolved podcast that a Wisconsin detective had asked Robert about a kidnapping here, but Robert denied involvement. Are repressed memories real? The theory of repressed memories was popular back in the late '80s and early '90s. The idea is that people can subconsciously block out traumatic things that have happened to them. And after a time often years something triggers the memories to come back into the persons consciousness. Story continues It's a controversial idea that hasn't been proven with scientific evidence, according to Elizabeth Loftus, a psychologist at the University of California, Irvine who is considered one of the nation's leading experts on memory. Why were Robert and Rodney Berget executed? The two were convicted of killing prison guard Ron "R.J." Johnson during a failed escape attempt on April 12, 2011. It was Johnson's 63rd birthday and he was supposed to be off that day, but he had agreed to cover a shift for a sick co-worker. The two convicts hit Johnson over the head with a metal pipe and covered his face with plastic wrap to smother his screams. Robert put on Johnson's uniform and tried to leave the prison pushing a laundry cart, in which Berget was hiding. Both Robert and Berget were sentenced to death. Robert was executed in 2012. Berget died by lethal injection in 2018. Learn more about the Alexis Patterson case by listening to the true-crime podcast Unsolved. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Eric Robert was executed for homicide. Did he kidnap Alexis Patterson? As soon as we finished season 1 of XO, Kitty, you better believe we began eagerly awaiting XO, Kitty season 2. It took two whole years since its announcement for XO, Kitty, the long-anticipated To All The Boys spinoff series, to hit on Netflix on May 18, 2023, but not even a month later, the waiting game has begun again. Yes, folks, it might seem hard to believe but the countdown for XO, Kitty season 2 in on hopefully, at least. ICYMI: XO, Kitty centers around the silver-tongued Katherine Song Covey, a.k.a. Kitty, a fan-favorite from the TATB movies, after she gets the same super-cool scholarship her late mom got in her teenage years and enrolls in high school in South Korea. "Grab your helmets, kids, this is gonna be a wild ride," leading lady Anna Cathcart wrote on Instagram when the series was first announced and season one already proved she was more than right. Season one followed Kitty as she made her way to Seoul to reunite with her long-time, long-distance boyfriend Dae (played by Choi Minyeong), and what followed was indeed a rollercoaster, with all its ups and downs and romantic spins. Jenny Han, the original author of the To All The Boys books, is a co-showrunner and executive producer on XO, Kitty alongside Sascha Rothchild. "We all fell so deeply in love with Lara Jean and her story. So it felt like the greatest gift to give to Kitty was to let her as a character kind of set off on her own two feet and not put her in the shadow of either of her sisters," Han told Netflix's Tudum, with Rothchild adding that, She's stepping into the fore picking up the baton from Lara Jean. Season 1 of XO, Kitty ended up with more than one loose end and a pretty hefty cliffhanger, so it's only natural to wonder about Kitty's future in season two. If that's your case, you've come to the right place. If you are on the lookout for more info on XO, Kitty season 2, here's everything we know about it so far, including release date, cast, plot details, first-look photos, and more. Story continues Is XO, Kitty Season 2 confirmed? The million-dollar question! As of now, Netflix has not officially renewed XO, Kitty for a second season, but it's only been days! Usually, the streamer waits a couple of months to announce if a series has been renewed for a second season. For reference: the massively popular Wednesday, led by Jenna Ortega, premiered its first season on November 23, 2022, but it wasn't until April 4, 2023, that Netflix officially announced its renewal. Despite mixed reviews, XO, Kitty has been doing pretty well in terms of viewership since its premiere, so it's only a matter of time until we get the announcement. COURTESY OF NETFLIX Is there a trailer for *__XO, Kitty __*Season 2? Since season 2 of XO, Kitty is technically not confirmed yet; there's not a trailer for it yet. However, you can rewatch the first full-length trailer for the series, which takes us straight into the heart of Seoul below. What will XO, Kitty Season 2 be about? Well, put it simply: XO, Kitty season two will be aboutKitty, duh! The last time we saw Kitty, she was expelled from K.I.S.S. (that's the Korean Independent School of Seoul, in case you need a refresher) and was on her way to the US Portland, to be more specific with a very special plane mate: Min Ho, played by Sang Heon Lee. A lot of things had happened up until this point: Dae and Kitty broke up (but he still has some hope of winning her back), Yuri (played by Gia Kim) was reunited with her girlfriend Juliana (Regan Aliyah) just as Kitty was about to confess her feeling for her, and Min Ho did confess his feelings for Kitty inside the plane after doing the most selfless act of love by choosing to fly economy for her. Lots going on. Where will I be able to watch *__XO, Kitty __*Season 2? When is *__XO, Kitty __*Season 2 coming out? If it gets greenlit, you'll more likely only be able to watch season two of XO, Kitty on Netflix. No tentative release date or year has yet been brought up, but it is worth noting that the 2023 Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike is still ongoing. How many episodes will XO, Kitty Season 2 have? Again just speculating here, but, since the first season of the XO, Kitty featured 10 episodes in total, with each episode running for approximately 30 minutes, it's safe to assume season two would be similar. (Fun fact: season one episodes were directed by Jennifer Arnold, Jeff Chan, Pamela Romanowsky, and Katina Medina Mora.) PARK YOUNG-SOL/NETFLIX Who will be in the cast of *__XO, Kitty __*Season 2? Again, nothing is confirmed, but we can likely expect all the main cast to return for a potential second season. As of now, the cast of XO, Kitty features Anna Cathcart reprising the role of Kitty. South Korean actor Minyeong Choi, whom you might recognize from the K-drama Twenty-Five Twenty-One, played Dae, a character that was previously portrayed by Jeon Hoyoung, who just recently took part in MNET's talent competition Boys Planet. Real-life siblings Gia Kim and Sang Heon Lee would need to come back as Yuri and Min Ho, and hopefully, we also get a bit more of Anthony Keyvan (Q), Peter Thurnwald (Alex), Jocelyn Shelfo (Madison), and Regan Aliyah (Juliana). Are there any first-look photos from *__XO, Kitty __*Season 2? Not yet and there likely won't be for a while! After a series gets officially renewed, it takes a good minute until production officially starts and we get the first slew of stills so we likely won't get anything from XO, Kitty Season 2 for more than a couple of months. Anna Cathcart as Kitty Song Covey and Choi Minyeong as Dae in episode six of XO, Kitty. PARK YOUNG-SOL/NETFLIX COURTESY OF NETFLIX Courtesy of Netflix This story will continue to be updated as news about XO, Kitty Season 2 breaks. Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue Want more Netflix Stories? Check these stories out: CANBERRA, May 31 (Xinhua) -- The lower house of Australia's Parliament has passed legislation to establish a referendum on the Indigenous Voice proposal. The House of Representatives on Wednesday morning voted 121-25 in favor of the government's Constitution Alteration Bill. It means Australians are now one step closer to voting on whether to establish an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the country's first referendum since 1999. The bill will now head to the Senate before the government sets a date for the poll later in 2023. If successful, the referendum would alter the constitution to recognize First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice and establish the Voice as a body that would advise the federal parliament on issues relating to Indigenous Australians. The vote in Parliament coincided with more than 100 Australian migrant and cultural organizations joining forces to declare their support for the voice. The community organizations released a joint resolution asking for all Australians to work together on ensuring a referendum on the proposal is successful. It's been nearly a year since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the case that made it a constitutional right to an abortion. With no federal standards in place since June 2022, it's been up to states to enact their own laws and in many cases revert to what was in place before Roe v. Wade went into effect. Abortion, as a result, has been one of the top issues in Wisconsin for the last 12 months and at the forefront of elections over the last year. So, where do we stand in Wisconsin and what's ahead for abortion laws in the state? Here are five things to know and the impact it has on women. Wisconsin reverted back to an 1849 abortion law The state quickly shifted to a law that was previously in place from the 1800s after Roe v. Wade was overturned, sparking uproar from pro-choice advocates and praise in the pro-life circles. The law bans doctors from performing abortions except when the mother would die without having the procedure. Doctors could face a felony crime of up to six years in prison if they give a woman an abortion. The current ruling has forced medical professionals to delay decisions about health care in high-risk pregnancies because of the uncertainty and fear over legal consequences, the Journal Sentinel has learned. Dane County Judge Diane Schlipper makes remarks during a case being argued by the state of Wisconsin which challenges a 174-year-old abortion law. Wisconsin lawmakers passed a law in 1849 that outlaws abortion except to save the mother's life. The U.S. Supreme Court's landmark Roe vs. Wade decision in 1973 that legalized abortion statewide effectively voided the ban. A lawsuit filed by Attorney General Josh Kaul could set stage for reversal Attorney General Josh Kaul issued a lawsuit with the state court after Wisconsin's 19th century law went into effect. In short, it sought to clarify the ruling on whether the ban is still in effect and contests that laws passed since Roe v. Wade should override the 1849 ruling. If a judge rules in their favor, abortions would be allowed in order to preserve the health of the mother, based on a law enacted in 1985. Also, abortion would be legal up until 20 weeks of pregnancy. That rule was passed under former Republican Gov. Scott Walker. For 26 years up until 2022, women seeking abortions also had to participate in counseling and wait 24 hours before their procedure. Story continues Dane County Circuit Court Judge Diane Schlipper heard arguments earlier this month, but has yet to make a ruling. Janet Protasiewicz's victory this spring to earn a spot on the Wisconsin Supreme Court could have implications on the state's abortion ban. Abortion law will likely go to Wisconsin's Supreme Court After Schlipper makes a ruling, it's almost a guarantee that it will be challenged one way or another before the seven-member Wisconsin Supreme Court. That's important because the Supreme Court has now shifted to a liberal majority after Janet Protasiewicz defeated former Justice Daniel Kelly in the spring election. It's the first time in 15 years that the state's highest court has liberal control. And it's likely Protasiewicz would side with Kaul since she often spoke about fighting for a women's right to choose during her campaign. She told the Journal Sentinel before her general election win that while she had personal views regarding the abortion issue, she pointed out it's important to "see what the arguments are that come before the court." Wisconsin's lawmakers are talking about abortion a lot but nothing is being passed Several proposed laws have come before the Republican-controlled Legislature this year. None have passed and even if they would they likely won't go into effect since Democratic Gov. Tony Evers has said he'd veto them. Here are a few abortion-related items from lawmakers. Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos said last year in order for women and girls to get an abortion he would require them to get a police report to show they are a victim of sexual assault or incest. A Republican-authored bill, backed by Vos, would allow for abortions under certain exceptions like sexual assault, incest and when the mother is experiencing serious complications. However, Wisconsin's Republican Senate leaders aren't in favor of it and won't even discuss it. GOP Sen. Andre Jacque has authored a bill that would ban public officials from promoting the idea of abortion. A Republican-led package in the Assembly would change the definition of abortion as a way to ensure pregnancy complications are not affected by the abortion ban. Democratic lawmakers want to require insurance providers to cover maternity and newborn care as an essential health benefit. Wisconsin's neighboring states like Illinois and Minnesota have passed laws making it easier to get an abortion Wisconsin's surrounding states do not have as restrictive abortion bans like Wisconsin does. Illinois: Abortions are allowed until a fetus is viable, or after if the life and health of the pregnant person is at risk. Illinois has over 10,000 patients a year from other states for abortion care, and that number increased dramatically since June 2022, the governor's office says. Earlier this year, Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker signed a major reproductive rights protections bill. Michigan: After Roe v. Wade was overturned, a Michigan court blocked the state's previous abortion ban to continue access for the state. Voters then approved of abortion rights during the fall 2022 election. Minnesota: Abortions in Minnesota are legal up until fetal viability, or after if the pregnant person's life and health is at risk. Minnesotas Supreme Court ruled in 1995 that women have a right to an abortion. Iowa: Abortion is legal until 20 weeks of pregnancy, unless life and physical health are at risk. But, according to the Des Moines Register, the Iowa Supreme Court is set to reconsider a 2018 law that would ban most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. More: Here are all the state's abortion laws Our subscribers make this reporting possible. Please consider supporting local journalism by subscribing to the Journal Sentinel at jsonline.com/deal. DOWNLOAD THE APP: Get the latest news, sports and more This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Roe v Wade overturned; what are Wisconsin's abortion laws? Corrections & Clarifications: This story has been updated to correct how far away the body was found from where the missing doctor was last seen. A death investigation is underway after the body of a Missouri doctor was found in northwest Arkansas more than a week after he was reported missing, police say. Dr. John Forsyth, 49, was found dead Tuesday with what appeared to be a gunshot wound, the Benton County (Arkansas) Sheriffs Office said in a statement. His body was found by a kayaker in the water across from the area near Lost Bridge South Park, according to the statement. The park is roughly 26 miles from Mercy Hospital in Cassville, Missouri, where he worked as an emergency room physician. He was last seen at the hospital on the morning of May 21 but did not show up for his afternoon shift, his brother Richard Forsyth told The Daily Beast. Cassville is a town of 3,100 in the Missouri Ozarks. This undated photo released by the Cassville Missouri Police Dept., shows a portrait of Dr. John Forsyth. Authorities in the small town of Cassville, Missouri, searched for the emergency room physician Dr. Forsyth a week-and-a-half after his mysterious disappearance. Richard Forsyth told The Associated Press that officials notified his family that his brother's body had been found Tuesday night. He said his brother last spoke to his fiancee as he was leaving the hospital in the morning, The Daily Beast reported. Concern grew when he failed to return for his later shift, according to the outlet. He wouldnt miss a shift even if his eyeballs were hanging out of their sockets," Richard Forsyth told The Daily Beast last week. It was an immediate red flag. John Forsyth's vehicle, a black Infiniti, was later found at an aquatic park in Cassville. It was unlocked with items including his wallet, two phones, and a laptop inside. His brother told the Associated Press Wednesday that surveillance video from the aquatic park showed the black Infiniti pulling into the parking lot. A few minutes later, a white SUV can be seen parking near him. It doesnt seem like a person who left with a plan, Richard Forsyth told The Associated Press earlier Tuesday. Law enforcement agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, used dogs and drones to search a nearly 9-mile radius around the park. Meanwhile, Forsyths family sought information and shared articles about his disappearance on Facebook. Story continues Benton County detectives are investigating Forsyth's death along with the Barry County Sheriff's Office, Cassville police and Missouri State Police. Richard Forsyth told The Associated Press his family is still waiting on more details from detectives. The Missouri State Highway Patrol directed questions to Cassville police. Contributing: The Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: John Forsyth, missing Missouri ER doctor, found dead in Arkansas China called on the U.S. to stop its dangerous acts of provocation on Wednesday after a Chinese fighter jet intercepted an American spy plane over the South China Sea last week. For quite some time, the U.S. side has frequently sent aircraft and vessels to conduct close-in reconnaissance on China, seriously threatening Chinas sovereignty and security, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a daily press briefing. Such provocative and dangerous moves are the root cause for maritime security issues, she added. The U.S. needs to immediately stop such dangerous acts of provocation. Officials with U.S. Indo-Pacific Command on Tuesday accused a Chinese J-16 fighter pilot of conducting an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver, after it flew directly in front of the nose of an RC-135 aircraft on Friday and forced the American spy plane to fly through the wake of its turbulence. The RC-135 was conducting safe and routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace, in accordance with international law, American officials said in a statement. The U.S. also released a video of the encounter, which shows what appears to be a fighter jet zooming by the American spy plane. The incident comes after China rejected a U.S. request for a meeting between the defense chiefs from both nations. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said at a news conference in Lulea, Sweden, on Wednesday that the encounter underscored the importance of maintaining regular, open lines of communication, including between the countries defense ministers. As weve said repeatedly, while we have a real competition with China, we also want to make sure that doesnt veer into conflict and the most important starting point for that are regular lines of communication, Blinken added. Both China and the U.S. have seen relations plummet amid growing concerns that Beijing will invade Taiwan to reunify it with the Chinese mainland. China sees the self-governed island as historically part of the mainland, but the U.S. is alarmed about the possible takeover of a democratically governed and independent nation. The nations have also butted heads diplomatically over rival expansions across the Indo-Pacific region and after a Chinese spy balloon floated over the U.S. mainland in February. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The News Hard-right Republicans spent much of Tuesday furiously denouncing Washingtons new debt ceiling deal as it began moving through Congress, promising to use any means within their reach to derail it. But by the evening, even some of the bills loudest opponents had begun to admit what seemed increasingly obvious: The package looked well on its way to becoming law. Colorado Rep. Ken Buck, a member of the arch-conservative House Freedom Caucus, raised a white flag on CNN, even as he promised to vote no on the deal. This bill will pass, he said. Some Republicans will vote for it. Some Democrats will vote for it. It will go to the Senate. It will pass in the Senate. It'll be signed by the president and the United States will not default. South Carolina Rep. Ralph Norman, another no-vote, also told a reporter that passage appeared all-but guaranteed; hed heard that 100 House Democrats had decided to back the bill, almost certainly enough to put it over the top. It was a quick comedown from earlier in the day, when Freedom Caucus members gathered for a 45-minute press conference to rail against the package. Members criticized it as a tepid compromise that failed to cut spending enough in return for raising the governments borrowing limit, and accused House Speaker Kevin McCarthy of failing to deliver the deal he promised to his party. The Republican conference right now has been torn asunder and we are working hard trying to put it back together again by making sure that this bill gets stopped, Texas Rep. Chip Roy told reporters. But conservative hopes of tripping up the deal seemed to fade after it cleared its first key procedural hurdle before the House Rules Committee, which voted 7-6 to send the bill to the floor for debate Wednesday. Freedom Caucus members had suggested they might be able to bottle up the bill before the panel. But the legislation earned a key vote from Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, a libertarian-leaning conservative who had kept mum on his position through the day. Story continues Ive been in Congress for a decade and this is the first real bill that cuts spending, Massie explained later as he announced his support for the deal. At least 30 House Republicans were poised to oppose the debt ceiling bill as of Wednesday morning. However, the roster is mostly made up of names that senior Republicans never expected to vote for anything less than the party-line bill they originally passed through the House. These were not likely yes votes at the beginning of last week, Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota said. We shouldn't be all that surprised they're not yes votes at the beginning of this week. Joseph's view The suspense is quickly draining from the debt ceiling standoff. But its still an open question whether any frustrated conservatives may try to oust McCarthy over the deal. North Carolina Rep. Dan Bishop, another Freedom Caucus member, became the first Republican to threaten to try and topple the speaker on Tuesday. It is inescapable to me. It has to be done, he told Politico. Meanwhile, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida suggested McCarthy may face a referendum on his leadership if he allows the bill to pass without support from the majority of House Republicans. McCarthy could in theory be vulnerable to a challenge, since the rules package he agreed to in order to become speaker allows any single member to call a snap no-confidence vote against him known as a motion to vacate. However, the speaker told reporters Tuesday he wasnt worried about a mutiny Thats his choice, he said when asked about Bishops threat and other hardline conservatives downplayed the chance of an outright rebellion that throws the GOP into chaos. The motion to vacate talk is not serious, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia said. It would be a horrible decision. Greene, for her part, referred to the debt ceiling deal as a shit sandwich multiple times, but said she was still leaning toward supporting it. She suggested that if leadership promised to impeach an administration official, it would help secure her vote, saying the idea would be a great dessert. Room for Disagreement Its still possible we could still see some last-minute snags in this process, in part because some Senate Republicans made it clear theyd seek amendment votes in exchange for any agreement to fast-track the debt limit bill through the Senate. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky said hed seek a vote on his so-called five-penny plan to balance the federal budget within five years. No amendments, well be here until next Tuesday, Paul told reporters. TALLAHASSEE Protests took place across six Florida cities while some businesses across the state shut their doors Thursday in opposition to a tough, new immigration law pushed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is campaigning this week in Iowa and New Hampshire. DeSantis last week formally announced his bid for the Republican presidential nomination. But just a couple of weeks earlier, he signed into law the sweeping crackdown on undocumented immigrants that is the subject of the protests. Im trying to support all of the immigrant people, said Victor Prado, general manager of El Mariachi restaurant in West Palm Beach, which was closed Thursday. They come to this country to get a better life. We left everyone in our country to come to this beautiful country to live better. Esta noticia en Espanol: Empresas en Florida planean un paro de trabajo para protestar la nueva ley de inmigracion Prado, a native of Mexico, entered the U.S. more than two decades ago and has gained citizenship, running the family restaurant the past five years. But he said Floridas new law will harm both immigrants and employers. The measure, which takes effect July 1, is considered among the toughest steps taken by any state to deter illegal aliens. But it has been condemned by critics as cruel and potentially leading to law enforcement profiling. Andres Mendez, left, makes tacos, while Carlos Martinez, right, takes a customer's order in the Chile & Chili's Taqueria food truck on Tennessee Street on Wednesday, May 31, 2023. In Tallahassee, Chile & Chili's Taqueria announced on Instagram it would close on Thursday in protest of the immigration law, which imposes tough penalties and new restrictions on undocumented immigrants in Florida. "We apologize to our clients as we join our Latino brothers," the post reads. The Florida protests are part of a nationwide effort led by Latino organizations opposing anti-immigration laws in several states and urging more comprehensive immigration reform by Congress. Demonstrations were planned for Jacksonville, Vero Beach, Orlando, Tampa and the farming communities of Immokalee and Pierson. Story continues A protest Saturday over the Florida measure outside Homestead City Hall drew hundreds of people, many of them immigrants. Immigration law: DeSantis signs illegal immigration crackdown and rails against Biden Takeaways from the law: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signs sweeping immigration bill SB 1718 into law 'The stakes couldn't be higher': Ron DeSantis kicks off 2024 presidential campaign in Iowa Andres Mendez makes tacos for a customer while working in the Chile & Chili's Taqueria food truck on Tennessee Street on Wednesday, May 31, 2023. The Florida law strengthens employment requirements and allows state law enforcement officials to conduct random audits of businesses suspected of hiring undocumented workers. It also gives DeSantis an additional $12 million for a migrant relocation program similar to that used by the governor last year to lure almost 50 mostly Venezuelan asylum-seekers from Texas to Marthas Vineyard off the Massachusetts coast. Under the law, criminal penalties are increased for human smuggling, with third-degree felony charges imposed on anyone caught knowingly and willingly transporting anyone illegally in the country across state lines into Florida. Transporting a minor or more than five undocumented people into the state carries a second-degree felony penalty. Undocumented migrants also could face felony charges by displaying a false ID to obtain employment. In addition, all businesses with 25 or more employees would be required to use the federal E-Verify system to check the immigration status of new workers. "Were protecting Floridians, to the full extent of our ability," DeSantis said at the event in Jacksonville where he enacted the law. A podium sign read, "Biden's Border Crisis," in a swipe at the Democratic president. Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a campaign event in Clive, Tuesday, May 30, 2023. But advocates for the Florida's immigrant community are fighting back. In the Florida Panhandle, Lalo's Drywall, a construction company that does work in Leon, Gadsden, Jefferson and Franklin counties, was closed Thursday in support of Florida's immigrant workforce. "The governor isnt doing a good job," said the owner, who asked not to be identified. "This is a bad decision. Us immigrants, we work hard to be here, and this is a bad law." Santos Huerta, who works at Chile & Chilis in Tallahassee, said she stands with Floridas immigrant workforce. The taco trucks staff heard about the protest from social media and wanted to participate in solidarity. I am one more of them, she said. We are a united community. Santos Huerta, 35, poses for a portrait in front of the Chile & Chili's Taqueria food truck on Tennessee Street on Wednesday, May 31, 2023. Huerta, who was wearing gold cross earrings and a medallion of the Virgin Mary, said she believes God is looking out for the Hispanic people in Florida. He is with us, he wont leave us behind, and well keep going, Huerta said. In Naples, J&R Valdez Painting, Inc. owner Juan Valdez said all 45 of his workers will be on strike. Since the immigration bill passed in early May, he's lost 15 employees who have moved to other states. They have families that are immigrants, so theyre doing it for their families, he said. Under the law, local governments would be banned from contributing money to organizations that create identification cards for undocumented immigrants and drivers licenses issued to non-citizens in other states would be barred from use in Florida, a provision critics say may cause confusion and law enforcement profiling, especially in a diverse, visitor-filled state. Hospitals receiving state and federal Medicaid reimbursements would be required to track how much money is spent on undocumented immigrants in emergency rooms. Hospitals also would be required to ask patients about whether they are in the country legally, a standard opponents say will discourage many people from seeking health care even those who have been living for years in Florida cities. "We truly believe that this is a moment when all of us have to stand up and fight back," said Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet, with the Hope Community Center, a non-profit in Apopka, which works with immigrant families. John Kennedy is a reporter in the USA TODAY Networks Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jkennedy2@gannett.com, or on Twitter at @JKennedyReport. Contact Ana Goni-Lessan at AGoniLessan@tallahassee.com and follow her on Twitter @goni_lessan. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Opponents of DeSantis immigration law hold protests, business strikes Lamont Hunter is led out of Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Christian Jenkins' courtroom on May 12, 2023. A Hamilton County judge will decide on June 14 whether to set bond for a man who spent more than 15 years on Ohios death row but had his convictions vacated after a deputy county coroner in recent years changed her opinion about the case. The deputy coroner, Dr. Gretel Stephens, testified at a 2021 deposition that the manner of death was undetermined for 3-year-old Trustin Blue, who died from severe brain injuries while in Lamont Hunters care. Stephens had previously said Trustin's 2006 death was a homicide. Hunters bond hearing began May 12 in front of Common Pleas Judge Christian Jenkins and concluded Wednesday. Hunter, 54, remains charged with aggravated murder, rape and child abuse. Its possible that Jenkins could set a monetary bond that would allow him to be out of jail although likely monitored electronically while he awaits a new trial. Prosecutors want Hunter to be held without bond. On Wednesday, prosecutors said five of the seven pathologists at the Hamilton County Coroners Office reviewed records from the case and signed a document saying they agree with Stephens original finding, from 2006, that Trustins manner of death was homicide. The two who didnt sign were Stephens and another who is on medical leave. On the first day of the bond hearing, however, a now-retired Cincinnati police detective said she had been told Stephens wanted to go back to her original opinion that Trustins death was a homicide. Stephens did not testify at the hearing. Also Wednesday, it was revealed that the coroners office apparently found out about Stephens changed opinion from a media report about the bond hearing. 2021 deposition According to court documents, Stephens testified at a 2021 deposition that was part of Hunters appeal that the manner of death was undetermined. She also said injuries to Trustin she previously attributed to sexual assault were accidentally inflicted by hospital staff trying to insert a thermometer into his rectum. Story continues Hunters attorneys say Stephens changed her opinions based on evidence she had not seen, which had been withheld by prosecutors during Hunters 2007 trial. After agreeing to vacate the convictions, prosecutors discussed with Hunters attorneys a potential plea deal that his attorneys said would have sentenced him to the time he already has spent incarcerated. Assistant Prosecutor Seth Tieger told Jenkins that his office may no longer offer a plea deal. He mentioned the document signed by the five forensic pathologists. The case has gotten a long stronger than it was before the plea offer, Tieger said. Fatal head injuries Also Wednesday, an expert called by Hunters attorneys said he believes Trustins fatal head injuries on Jan. 18, 2006 were caused by a fall down the stairs. Dr. George Shaw III based his opinion on Hunters statements that Trustin was running and fell down steps leading to the homes basement. Hunter said he was in the basement of the house in Carthage he shared with Trustins mother and her four children. He said he was doing laundry when Trustin tumbled down the basement stairs and landed on the concrete floor. Shaw, an emergency room physician and physicist, said there were multiple scenarios where a trip and fall down the stairs could have caused Trustins injuries. Those injuries included bleeding in his brain, brain swelling and retinal hemorrhages. Tieger, however, argued that Shaws opinion was based on Hunters own explanation about what happened. Tieger said Hunter could have been lying. This is classic abuse, Tieger told Jenkins. How many times does it take to convince somebody that this child was terrorized, raped and murdered? This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Judge to decide June 14 if Lamont Hunter can be released on bond Washington The House voted late Wednesday to approve legislation to suspend the debt ceiling and limit government spending, sending the measure to the Senate in a strong bipartisan vote that allayed fears of an unprecedented government default. A majority of Democrats and a majority of Republicans voted "yes" on the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 on Wednesday night, for a final tally of 314-117. Among Republicans, 149 voted for the bill and 71 voted against it, while 165 Democrats voted for the legislation and 46 voted against it. President Biden called the bill "good news for the American people and the American economy," and urged the Senate to take up the legislation as soon as possible. "Tonight, the House took a critical step forward to prevent a first-ever default and protect our country's hard-earned and historic economic recovery," Mr. Biden said in a statement. "This budget agreement is a bipartisan compromise. Neither side got everything it wanted. That's the responsibility of governing. I want to thank Speaker McCarthy and his team for negotiating in good faith, as well as Leader Jeffries for his leadership." In a press conference after the vote, McCarthy thanked Republican negotiators and the Republican conference for reaching this moment. "I've been thinking about this day before my vote for speaker because I knew the debt ceiling was coming," McCarthy told reporters. "I wanted to make history. I wanted to do something no other Congress has done, that we would literally turn the ship and for the first time in quite some time, we'd spend less than we spent the year before. Tonight, we all made history." Here's what's in the debt ceiling deal and what's not Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called the House vote "very good," telling reporters that "we hope we can move the bill quickly here in the Senate, and bring it to the president's desk as soon as possible." Story continues Earlier Wednesday, a rule to move the bill forward briefly appeared in danger of failing, with nearly 30 Republicans voting against it. More than 50 Democrats ended up supporting the rule, clearing the way for a vote on final passage later in the evening. Ahead of the final vote, Republican and Democratic members urged the bill's passage, while recognizing they didn't get everything they wanted. "Mr. Speaker, the Rolling Stones said, you can't always get what you want, you get what you need. And we need to avert a default that would stop checks to seniors, benefits for our veterans, hurt the U.S. dollar and Americans' retirement savings," Republican Rep. Nicole Malliotakis of New York summarized on the House floor ahead of the vote. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that while she finds the legislation "objectionable," it would avert a catastrophic default. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats will "continue to do what is necessary" to "build an economy that works for everyday Americans," but blasted Republican leadership for not being able to keep their party in lock step. "The question that remains right now is what will the House Republican majority do? It appears that you may have lost control of the floor of the House of Representatives," Jeffries said ahead of the vote. Republican Rep. Garret Graves, one of the Republicans who negotiated the deal with the White House, expressed frustration that the nation has accumulated so much debt, but touted the bill's "historic" savings and urged his colleagues to pass the legislation. "It is absolutely historic," Graves said on the House floor ahead of the vote. "For the first time ever, as a result of the strategic nature of this speaker, we're in a situation where we have legislation before us that will result in the greatest savings in American history." Conservative House Republicans objected to the deal brokered by McCarthy and Mr. Biden, with some members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus threatening to call a vote to oust McCarthy from the speakership over the deal. The bill would suspend the debt limit until the first quarter of 2025, after the 2024 elections. Under the agreement, domestic, non-defense spending would be kept roughly flat for 2024, and in 2025, the bill allows a limited increase of 1%. The measure also overhauls the nation's permitting laws and specifically approves the remaining permits on a West Virginia natural gas pipeline championed by Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia. The bill rescinds unspent COVID-19 funds and adds work requirements for people on food assistance until their early 50s, while eliminating work requirements for veterans and young adults leaving the foster care system. Debt ceiling deal's next steps getting it through Congress Debt ceiling showdown "was incredibly costly" to U.S., economic expert says Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has estimated the U.S. would run out of funds by June 5 without action on the debt limit. White House officials and House Republican negotiators worked at the Capitol and White House in a series of lengthy sessions to hammer out the details of a deal since Mr. Biden reengaged on the issue, after insisting for months that he would not negotiate on raising the debt ceiling. Earlier Wednesday, Schumer said on the floor that senators should be prepared to move on the bill quickly. "I cannot stress enough that we have no margin no margin for error," he said. "Either we proceed quickly and send this bipartisan agreement to the president's desk or the federal government will default for the first time ever." He instructed them in a letter earlier this week to "prepare for potential Friday and weekend votes." Caitlin Yilek, Zachary Hudak and Jack Turman contributed to this report. President Biden falls on stage at Air Force Academy commencement Destruction from Russia's war on Ukraine revealed in new before and after satellite images Comer says Wray confirmed existence of record alleging Biden bribery scheme Criminal prosecutions of fraud and forgery cases were on the rise in Iowa before the pandemic hit, reaching their highest number in years in 2018 with 1,786 convictions. By the end of 2022, however, prosecutions for that broad category of crimes numbered just 614, their lowest number in years, according to Iowas Criminal and Juvenile Justice Planning. That doesnt mean fraud isn't a big problem. One example: The Iowa Attorney Generals Office received 359 home improvement-related consumer complaints in 2022, the third-leading type of complaint behind those involving auto sales and health care. Most of the complaints concerned contractors failing to complete jobs and poor workmanship. A series of court rulings have signaled to county attorneys across the state that contractor theft or fraud cases are best handled, under current Iowa law, as civil rather than criminal matters. Iowa's Court of Appeals and Supreme Court have held that down payments for construction are given outright by customers, and to prove theft, a prosecutor must show that the contractor intended to make off with the money. Under state law, just about anyone can be a contractor as long as they register with Iowa Workforce Development. And even if they don't, the $500 fine is reduced to $250 if they pay within 20 days. As a result, many contractors have taken people's money, failed to do the agreed-upon work and suffered few consequences, even after being ordered to repay customers under Iowa's Consumer Fraud Law. But Lynn Hicks, a spokesperson for the Polk County Attorney's office, said each case needs to be considered individually to see what can be done. Before you hire a contractor Check references. Before you sign anything or pay any money, ask around and take time to talk with the contractor. Ask people you know and trust whom they have hired for their projects and whether they were satisfied. Check complaints with the Attorney General's Office (email: consumer.consumer@ag.iowa.gov) and the Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org. Be wary of any person or company not listed in the local telephone directory, and be wary of contractors who provide only a post office box and not a street address. Go to iowacourts.state.ia.us to check court cases involving the business and the individual. Get several written estimates or bids. Be sure the estimates include everything you want done and nothing more. Although low bids are often what people look for, they can raise red flags. Get the contract in writing and read it before you sign it. The contract should detail terms, including the work to be done. It should state the brand and specifications of the materials to be used; the price; the party responsible for obtaining permits and scheduling inspections; that all change orders must be in writing; and the party responsible for cleanup. Put start and completion dates in writing, as well as the remedies if the contractor fails to meet them. Avoid paying large sums or for the entire job up front. If you need to make a partial advance payment for materials, make your check out to the supplier and the contractor. Insist on a mechanic's lien waiver in case the contractor fails to pay others for materials or labor. Lee Rood's Reader's Watchdog column helps Iowans get answers and accountability from public officials, the justice system, businesses and nonprofits. Reach her at lrood@registermedia.com, at 515-284-8549, on Twitter at @leerood or on Facebook at Facebook.com/readerswatchdog. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa fraud, forgery cases dip; problems don't: How to protect yourself Louisiana's poorest workers will have to go at least another year without a pay raise after lawmakers rejected Democratic New Orleans Sen. Gary Carter's effort to have his minimum wage bill heard on the Senate floor. The action came less than 24 hours after the Senate Finance Committee in a Memorial Day hearing advanced "without action" Senate Bill 149 to create a state minimum wage of $10 per hour in 2024 that would rise to $14 per hour in 2028. "It needs to be established into law," said Democratic Shreveport Sen. Greg Tarver. But because it was advanced "without action," the Senate had to vote on whether to add the bill to its calendar. Senators voted 25-13 against doing so Tuesday afternoon, killing the measure for this session. Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards had supported establishing a state minimum wage for all eight years of his two terms to no avail. Carter emphasized that there are workers who are trying to make ends meet on the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, which hasn't changed since 2008. "There are people, not just students, relying on minimum wage," he said. One in five people in Louisiana live below the poverty rate. US Senator and Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Chairman Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., speaks during a news conference with labor leaders to make an announcement on the federal minimum wage, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on May 4, 2023. Tom Costanza, executive director of the Louisiana Conference of Catholic Bishops, said 30% of single women who head households work for the minimum wage in Louisiana. Twenty-nine states have enacted minimum wages higher than federal law. Neighbors Texas and Mississippi follow the federal minimum wage of $7.25, but Arkansas has a minimum wage of $11 per hour. Louisiana's poverty rate is 18.56, second highest to Mississippi at 19.2%. More: Louisiana lawmakers reject bill to abolish death penalty after emotional hearing Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1. This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Louisiana's poorest workers won't get raise with 19% below poverty line After years of surveys and deliberations, the Space Force on Wednesday announced it would headquarter one of its major commands at Patrick Space Force Base in Florida. The headquarters for the Space Training and Readiness Command, or STARCOM, will initially bring hundreds of personnel to the Space Coast to help develop training programs for Space Force members. The Patrick operation will also include Space Delta 10, which is responsible for wargaming and tactics. Colorado and New Mexico were selected to host STARCOM's other two deltas. The command, one of three under the branch established in December 2019, is responsible for education, training, and development of space professionals. That's in addition to "the development of space warfighting doctrine, tactics, techniques and procedures, and the operational test and evaluation of Space Force systems," the Air Force said in a release. The Space Force is part of the Air Force, much like the Marine Corps falls under the Navy. The Space Force on Wednesday announced it would headquarter one of its major commands at Patrick Space Force Base in Florida, the headquarters for the Space Training and Readiness Command, or STARCOM. NASA auditors: Report takes NASA to task over multibillion-dollar SLS and Artemis cost increases SpaceX sonic booms: Florida will hear more sonic booms as SpaceX squeezes performance out of Falcon 9 rocket From Project Mercury to todays privatized spaceflight, Americans look to Floridas Space Coast to see history in the making, Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a release. We are honored to host the Space Training and Readiness Command headquarters and continue Floridas history as Americas gateway to outer space. Next steps include conducting environmental reviews at the bases, followed by final decisions. "This decision by the U.S. Air Force reflects the strategic importance of Florida in advancing national security and defense in space," said Frank DiBello, president and CEO of Space Florida. Bringing STARCOMs headquarters to Patrick Space Force Base and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station is a significant milestone in Floridas history and reaffirms our critical role in advancing the nations space and military capabilities." Story continues STARCOM's other two branches include Space Deltas 11 and 12. Space Delta 11 is expected to call Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico its home. Training there will focus on live and virtual programs to prepare Space Force members. Space Delta 12, to be based in Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, will be responsible for tests and evaluations. "The decision to host STARCOM HQ and the three deltas at their respective bases came after conducting site surveys at each location to assess their ability to facilitate the mission and infrastructure capacity, while accounting for community support, environmental factors and cost," the Air Force said. The decision comes after years of surveys and analyses to find the most suitable locations. Officials had long hoped Florida would get at least some part of STARCOM considering that Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Kennedy Space Center, which operate under the leadership of the Space Force's Eastern Range, make up the busiest spaceport in the world. SpaceX return: Splashdown wraps up record-setting SpaceX private astronaut mission to the space station Jim Dubea, a Merritt Island resident and retired commander for the U.S. Coast Guard base at Port Canaveral, said the announcement "sounds like an incredible opportunity for the Space Force and other armed forces in the community." "It will be a great addition to the region," and will help boost the local economy, said Dubea, who currently is vice president of marine and waterfront for Consor Engineers. In commenting on the announcement, Lynda Weatherman, president and chief executive of the Economic Development Commission of Floridas Space Coast, said her organization, working in conjunction with other local and state organizations, was able to demonstrate "Floridas Space Coast was the best option for training our nations Guardians for the 21st-century battlefield. The governor's office said other entities involved in the effort included Space Florida, Enterprise Florida, the Florida Defense Support Task Force, the Florida High Tech Corridor, Florida Institute of Technology, the University of Central Florida, the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the National Center for Simulation, and Team Volusia Economic Development Corp. This coming weekend likely supports the Space Force's decision: two SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets are slated to fly from KSC and Cape Canaveral pads during back-to-back missions on Saturday and Sunday. Up first are a Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon capsule with thousands of pounds of cargo slated for the International Space Station. That mission is targeting a 12:34 p.m. EDT liftoff from KSC's pad 39A on Saturday, May 3. Then on Sunday, another Falcon 9 rocket is expected to loft SpaceX's newest batch of Starlink internet satellites from the Cape's Launch Complex 40. The nearly four-hour launch window will open at 5:48 a.m. EDT. Contact Emre Kelly at aekelly@floridatoday.com. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @EmreKelly. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Space Force selects Florida for training and command HQ SHENZHEN, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Shenzhen Baoan International Airport is resuming international flights on a large scale, following the resumption of the passenger routes linking China's major tech and financial hub Shenzhen and several European cities this year. The route between Shenzhen and Rome officially restarted on Sunday, before which those from Shenzhen to London and Paris were resumed, according to the Shenzhen airport. It is expected that by the end of June, the number of international and regional destinations that have opened flight routes with Shenzhen will rise to 25, with about 450 inbound and outbound passenger flights per week. Since the beginning of this year, the passenger service of the Shenzhen airport has recovered rapidly due to the travel market's recovery. From January to April, the passenger throughput at the airport reached 15.76 million, with the maximum daily passenger volume registering a record high of 182,500. Shamshu Deen says every case is like a puzzle "I feel very emotional and elated when I find a missing family. It also gives me a sense of accomplishment," Shamshu Deen says. For the past 25 years, Mr Deen, 76, a resident of Trinidad and Tobago, has been helping families in the Caribbean find long-lost relatives in India. He says he's helped over 300 people so far. The ancestors of these people arrived in the Caribbean - a former British colony - as indentured labourers in the 1800s and early 1900s, but lost touch with their families back home over time. Mr Deen - a geography teacher turned genealogist - is now helping the descendants of Indian indentured labourers in the Caribbean trace and reconnect with their loved ones. During British rule in India, known as the British Raj, slavery had been abolished. But indentured labourers were used as "cheap labour" across the British Empire in response to a so-called labour shortage. Many Indians travelled from their country to British colonies like the Caribbean, South Africa, Mauritius, and Fiji to work on sugar plantations between 1838 and 1917. Even though most labourers went willingly - possibly because they were not fully aware of the conditions they would face or signed agreements when they were illiterate - others were forcibly taken abroad. Some historians even described the system of indentured labour as the "new slave trade". Many Indians were sent to British colonies as indentured labourers Mr Deen became curious about this system and the impact it had on families after he learnt that his grandfather's grandfather - Munradin - had travelled to the Caribbean as an indentured labourer. He was in school when he learnt that the land his house was built on had been purchased by Munradin. "No-one in the family could tell us any more about him," Mr Deen says. In 1972, Mr Deen went to the Red House in Trinidad - which subsequently became the ministry of legal affairs - and sifted through piles of documents searching for the mystery man. After about four hours, he found his name on the last page of a moth-eaten book. Story continues He learnt that Munradin had left Calcutta (now Kolkata) on 5 January 1858 and reached Trinidad on 10 April the same year. "We know he was educated and spoke English. Munradin worked on sugar plantations. Later, he started doing translation work. After finishing his indentured contract, Munradin went on to become a teacher and finally opened two shops. He had two wives and five children. The house he lived in was inherited by his children but was destroyed in a fire." Mr Deen eventually also found family members from his mother's ancestry and could reconnect with relatives of the last person in his family to travel to the Caribbean, Bhongee. She arrived in Trinidad in 1872 at the age of seven, accompanied by her parents and three siblings. "I have only one photo of Bhongee, who died in 1949 when I was three years old. She lived to see her great-great-grandchildren," Mr Deen says. Bhongee was the last indentured labourer of Shamshu Deen's family Mr Deen went on to become a geography teacher but his success in finding lost relatives caught the eye of the Indian High Commission in Trinidad. It gave him a scholarship to trace the relatives of 10 Hindu and 10 Muslim families. He would later make this his career, becoming a genealogist and getting paid to do the work with the help of research teams in both Trinidad and India. Some of the family reunions he has helped facilitate include that of two former prime ministers of Trinidad and Tobago, Basdeo Panday and Kamla Persad Bissessar. Mr Deen also helped Trinidad-based David Lakhan, 65, find out more about his great-grandfather, who travelled from India to Trinidad in 1888 when he was 22. "He just gave one name in a document - Lakhan. But I wanted to discover the strength and resilience behind his decision to travel such a long distance," Mr Lakhan tells the BBC. From the national archives, Mr Deen was able to dig up emigration documents which had the name of Mr Lakhan's great-grandfather's brother, father, caste and his village. He then used his contacts in India to trace Mr Lakhan's relatives, paving the way for a family reunion in India in 2020. "We didn't expect the whole village to come out and greet us. They garlanded us," says Mr Lakhan's wife, Geeta. The family has since kept in touch with many of their Indian relatives, using translation tools to overcome language barriers. Ms Lakhan said she finds many similarities with them because of the cultural knowledge passed on by their common ancestors. They are now feeding the curiosity of their 7-year-old grandson by telling him about their trip to India, in the hope that he will take an interest in his heritage. The Lakhans (wearing garlands) met their relatives in India in 2020 Mr Deen says that tracing people today is a bit easier than it was at the beginning of his career due to digital maps and better access to historical records, but challenges remain. He estimates that he has about an 80% success rate in every case. "I can't get everyone's ancestry. In some cases, wrong information was given in the documents," he explains. Also, some indentured workers died while making their journey to Trinidad. Those who managed to reach often lived in dire conditions, their lives never being documented in any official way. But many workers also voluntarily stayed back in Trinidad after the end of their contract and were able to live as free people, he says. Mr Deen says he doesn't want to give up his work even though he has retired. In fact, just after he retired, he went to India for six months in 1996, and tracked down 14 more families. He says the work he does still gives him "happiness and health". "Every case is a puzzle. No two cases are the same," Mr Deen says. "Like all humankind, we are all migrants. But the thread of Indian heritage is sewn deeply in us." 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: I Spy North Korea was trying its very best to send a spy satellite up into space but it just didn't want to stay in the sky. As North Korea's Korean Central News Agency admitted, the Malligyong-1 satellite, which was launched on a homebrewed Chollima-1 rocket, experienced a second-stage malfunction that saw it tumbling down into the sea. The Pyongyang-run media attributed the satellite's failure to "unstable" fuel and the newness of the Chollima-1 rocket, and has vowed to fix its "serious defects" and relaunch as soon as possible. As The Guardian notes, this is North Korea's sixth attempt to launch a satellite, and curiously its first time doing so since 2016. This fact wasn't lost on the White House, which condemned the failed launch via a National Security Council spokesperson, calling it a "brazen violation of multiple UN Security Council resolutions." In the past, such satellite launches were believed to be Pyongyang's attempt to circumvent international rules and covertly test long-range missile systems. Indeed, both Japan and South Korea activated energy sirens after the launch, though they were quickly called off once it was clear that any threat it may have posed had passed. Saving Grace South Korea later revealed that it had salvaged part of what is believed to be the wreckage, which could be a huge boon for the country. "Technical experts will be able to gain tremendous insight into North Korea's proficiency with large, multi-stage boosters from the recovered debris," Ankit Panda, a United States-based security analyst told the Agence France-Presse. As with all statecraft, this debacle has many layers, and although it's scary to imagine North Korea trying to get around the rules preventing it from testing long-range missiles, it's at least reassuring that its latest attempt crashed and burned. More on military spycraft: Another Mysterious Balloon Sighted, This One Over Hawaii Another Phoenix City Council member is running for a spot in the U.S. House of Representatives from Arizona's 3rd Congressional District. City Councilmember Laura Pastor will pursue the seat currently held by Ruben Gallego, who's challenging Kyrsten Sinema for a U.S. Senate seat. She will announce her run on social media May 31, she told The Arizona Republic. Pastor's father, the late Congressman Ed Pastor, also served in the U.S. House of Representatives. Pastor filed her candidate's statement of interest for the seat with the Federal Election Commission on May 26. Arizona's 3rd Congressional District includes south, midtown and uptown Phoenix, as well as Maryvale and parts of Glendale. Pastor is the fifth candidate to throw her hat in the ring, joining state Sen. Raquel Teran, Phoenix City Councilmember Yassamin Ansari and school board members Ylenia Aguilar and Hector Jaramillo. The winner of the Democratic primary is largely expected to win the seat, since the district heavily favors Democrats and is not considered competitive by the Arizona Independent Redistricting Committee. Pastor, a former educator and mother of four, represents parts of midtown and west Phoenix on the Phoenix City Council. She was first elected in 2013 and ran unopposed in 2017 and 2022. The councilwoman does not have to officially resign her seat until she turns in petition signatures to place her name on the ballot. Petitions are due in the spring. Pastor's run marks the second Phoenix City Council member to announce a run for higher office. Ansari announced her bid for Gallego's seat in April. Phoenix City Councilmember Betty Guardado hinted at a potential run in February but has not made any formal announcements. In the works? 3 Phoenix City Council members may run for Congress. What to know Reporter Taylor Seely covers Phoenix City Hall for The Arizona Republic. Reach her at tseely@arizonarepublic.com, by phone at 480-476-6116, or on Twitter @taylorseely95. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Laura Pastor will run for US House to replace Ruben Gallego An apparent ransomware attack on one of Americas largest dental health insurers has compromised the personal information of almost nine million individuals in the United States. The Atlanta-based Managed Care of North America (MCNA) Dental claims to be the largest dental insurer in the nation for governmentsponsored plans covering children and seniors. In a notice posted on Friday, the company said it became aware of certain activity in our computer system that happened without our permission on March 6 and later learned that a hacker was able to see and take copies of some information in our computer system between February 26 and March 7, 2023. The information stolen includes a trove of patients personal data, including names, addresses, dates of birth, phone numbers, email addresses, Social Security numbers and driver's licenses or other government-issued ID numbers. Hackers also accessed patients health insurance data, including plan information and Medicaid ID numbers, along with bill and insurance claim information. In some cases, some of this data pertained to a patients parent, guardian, or guarantor, according to MCNA Dental, suggesting that childrens personal data was accessed during the breach. According to a data breach notification filed with Maines attorney general, the hack affected more than 8.9 million clients of MCNA Dental. That makes this incident the largest breach of health information of 2023 so far, after the PharMerica breach that saw hackers access the personal data of almost 6 million patients. MCNA Dental said its review to determine what data was affected was completed on May 3 almost two months after the cyberattack but has not provided further details of the incident. An MCNA spokesperson did not respond to TechCrunchs questions. However, the LockBit ransomware group took responsibility for the cyberattack and claims to have published all of the files it exfiltrated from MCNA Dental after the company refused to pay a $10 million ransom demand. Story continues A listing on LockBits dark web leak site, seen by TechCrunch, suggests the notorious ransomware gang stole 700GB of data during the intrusion. Samples of the leaked data appear to confirm that the hackers accessed sensitive information, including patients personal data and insurance details. LockBit is a Russia-linked ransomware gang that was first observed in September 2019. The group has claimed a number of high-profile victims in recent months, including U.K. postal giant Royal Mail, financial software company Ion Group and California's Department of Finance. The gang suffered a setback in November when one of its alleged leaders, dual Russian-Canadian citizen Mikhail Vasiliev, was arrested in Canada. In March, the U.S. government also announced that it had indicted a Russian national accused of being a key figure in the LockBit ransomware group. Tara Reade, a former Senate aide who accused President Joe Biden of sexual assault, said Tuesday she had moved to Moscow and was seeking to become a citizen, according to Russian state media. Reade, who worked in Bidens Senate office in 1993 for a short period, made the comments to Sputnik during a news conference, saying that although her decision was very difficult, she now felt very surrounded by protection and safety. My dream is to live in both places, but it may be that I only live in this place, and thats OK, she said. Reade was seated next to Maria Butina, a convicted Russian agent who was jailed in the U.S. in 2018. Butina now serves in Russias parliament. BREAKING: A Statement and Press Conference from Tara Reade @ReadeAlexandrahttps://t.co/BixNvE1TGs Tara Reade (@ReadeAlexandra) May 30, 2023 Reade first accused Biden in 2019 of inappropriately touching her while working in his Capitol Hill office nearly 30 years ago, in 1993. In 2020, as he ran for president, she accused him of sexual assaulting her when she worked in his Senate office. Biden has rejected the allegations. The New York Times spoke to former Biden staffers who had worked with Reade at the time, but none could corroborate the details of her claims or recount similar behavior. She was also dropped by a high-profile lawyer amid questions about her credibility. Reade said Tuesday she was still in a daze after her move but said she had grown fearful in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election. I am enjoying my time in Moscow, and I feel very at home, she said. Reade has shared pro-Russian views on social media in recent years and expressed frustration that Russian state media had been censored in the U.S. Semafor also reported that Russian diplomats attempted to bring her to the United Nations last year to speak before the Security Council. The request was rejected. Related... WASHINGTON A harsh new anti-LGBTQ law -- one of the most restrictive in the world -- in Uganda is drawing global condemnation and an online debate among a couple of high-profile American conservatives. Allies of the East African nation, including the U.S., are threatening sanctions, and aid is now in jeopardy. The law's punishments for gay sex include the death penalty and lifetime prison sentences. "Ugandas shameful anti-LGBTQ law is unjust & simply cruel,'' Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisc., said in a Tuesday tweet. ''Regardless of where you live, every person deserves the freedom to live their true authentic self, free from discrimination. I stand with Ugandas LGBTQ+ community & call for an immediate repeal." FILE - The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema speaks during their picket against Uganda's anti-homosexuality bill at the Ugandan High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa on April 4, 2023. Uganda's president Yoweri Museveni has signed into law tough new anti-gay legislation supported by many in the country but widely condemned by rights activists and others abroad, it was announced Monday, May 29, 2023. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe, File) ORG XMIT: NAI104 Democratic lawmaker Colin Allred of Texas said the legislation is "horrifying and should be condemned by the global community," and Rep. Robert Garcia, a Democrat from California, said the law threatens the death penalty to "individuals being true to their identity and loving who they choose." The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk told Reuters on Tuesday that he hopes Uganda's judiciary reviews the law, which he said violates the country's constitution and international human rights law. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the law "appalling and abhorrent." Even conservative, Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, who has opposed explicit protections for same-sex marriage in the U.S., weighed in on the law. "Any law criminalizing homosexuality or imposing the death penalty for aggravated homosexuality is grotesque & an abomination," he said in a tweet. "ALL civilized nations should join together in condemning this human rights abuse." His comments sparked an online debate in the conservative community at a time when its activists have targeting businesses that have openly supported the LGBTQ community. Story continues U.S. aid to Uganda in jeopardy President Joe Biden in a lengthy statement on Monday called for the Uganda law's repeal, saying it "is a tragic violation of universal human rights" that jeopardizes the nation's economic prospects. "Innocent Ugandans now fear going to hospitals, clinics, or other establishments to receive life-saving medical care lest they be targeted by hateful reprisals. Some have been evicted from their homes or fired from their jobs," Biden said. "And the prospect of graver threatsincluding lengthy prison sentences, violence, abusethreatens any number of Ugandans who want nothing more than to live their lives in safety and freedom." 'Horrific.' Biden, Cruz slam anti-LGBTQ law in Uganda that includes death penalty The White House said last year, when the bill passed Uganda's parliament, that it had "grave concerns" about the law "increasing violence targeting LGBTQI+ persons" and could deter tourism to and investment in the country. "The bill is one of the most extreme anti-LGBTQI+ laws in the world," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at the time. In its statement on Monday after the law was enacted, the White House stressed that the U.S. invests nearly $1 billion annually in Uganda. The Biden administration has previously indicated that those investments could be at risk if the anti-gay bill became law. U.S. considering sanctions, visa restrictions Biden said Monday that the law is part of an "alarming trend of human rights abuses and corruption in Uganda," and it poses a threat to everyone in Uganda, including tourists and U.S. government personnel. The president said he was directing his National Security Council "to evaluate the implications of this law on all aspects of U.S. engagement with Uganda," including AIDS relief and other assistance. "And we are considering additional steps, including the application of sanctions and restriction of entry into the United States against anyone involved in serious human rights abuses or corruption," Biden said. Biden's coordinator for strategic communications on the National Security Council John Kirby said earlier this year, after a version of the bill passed Uganda's parliament, that the U.S. would be watching the legislation very closely, but it had not made any decisions about how it might respond. Asked about potential sanctions on Uganda, Kirby told reporters in March, "And we would have to take a look at whether or not there might be repercussions that we would have to take, perhaps in an economic way, should this law actually get passed enacted." In the meantime, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Monday evening that the Biden administration would "support the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals in Uganda" and "promote accountability for Ugandan officials and other individuals responsible for, or complicit in, abusing their human rights," including through the potential use of visa restrictions. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: U.S. threatening sanctions against Uganda over anti-LGBTQ law Press Service of Concord/Handout via Reuters Wagner Group founder Yevgeny Prigozhin says he has asked Russias Investigative Committee to investigate crimes committed by Defense Ministry officials during the war against Ukraine. Long a thorn in the Defense Ministrys side, the mercenary boss announced the news via his press service Wednesday: I sent letters to the Investigative Committee and the Prosecutors Office of the Russian Federation today with a request to check a number of top functionaries of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation on the fact of the commission of a crime in the preparation and during the conduct of the [special military operation]. These letters will not be published, due to the fact that this will be dealt with by the investigating authorities. The announcement came shortly after Prigozhin called for a full-scale mobilization for the war, remarks the Kremlin was immediately forced to respond to by reassuring citizens there were no plans for a nationwide mobilization. It also came after Prigozhin accused a special cyber unit of the Defense Ministry of targeting him using social media photos and videos of his son Pavel and daughter Veronika partying with friends during the height of fighting in Ukraines Bakhmut. The videos, circulated among Russian Telegram channels this week, showed Prigozhins son and daughter apparently singing along to a song boasting that they were from the elite. Prigozhin had repeatedly criticized top military brass for what he described as the children of the elite being shielded from fighting. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now. Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now. WAPATO Small American flags waved in the breeze alongside handcrafted crosses in Wapato Reservation Cemetery on Monday as visitors walked the rows of graves. The Memorial Day ceremony put on by the Wapato American Legion 133 and the Yakama Warriors Association was attended by friends and family to honor those who were killed in action while serving in the U.S. military. PHOTOS: Memorial Day ceremony in Wapato People gathered at Reservation Community Memorial Park in Wapato, Wash., to honor U.S. military personnel who have died while serving during a Before the ceremony honoring fallen soldiers began, volunteers placed small, white crosses on the graves of fallen soldiers, made by students at Wapato High School. The small Wapato community was hit hard, it was a rough summer. Eight or nine young men all passed away in Vietnam. Theyre all laid to rest in one row, next to each other, Wapato resident Rosemary Yolo said. Yolo and her husband, Myron, have been helping honor those men and others on Memorial Day at Wapato Reservation Cemetery by putting out flags and crosses on their graves. I was in Vietnam, we got the news late that those soldiers passed. I knew them all. They were Wa-Hi (Wapato High School) graduates, drafted right out of high school. Two of them died almost the same day, veteran Myron Yolo said. Dan Ross, president of the Wapato American Legion 133, led visitors in the Pledge of Allegiance before introducing speakers. Pastor Richard Burson of Wapato First Baptist Church shared some inspiring words. Burson spoke of those honored on Memorial Day by quoting from John 15:12-13, My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no on than this: to lay down ones life for ones friends. He went on to say we cannot thank those who serve enough or say enough good things of them when we remember their sacrifice. We look around here at these flags here. They represent individuals who served in the armed forces so that we can have freedom," Burson said. "We have those freedoms in America because we have the greatest armed forces, (those) who are willing to leave their loved ones, their jobs and their way of life. To, if needed, lay down their lives for what they believe freedom is worth fighting and dying for." Sgt. James Alexander, 20 years Army and Army Reserves veteran and Yakama Nation police officer, read a Memorial Day 2023 passage sent to all the American Legions. The words spoken by Alexander honored soldiers from World War I to present. The men and women who died for our freedom represent the diverse patchwork that is the United States of America. They were rich and poor; Black and white; male and female. They were from cities, farms and suburbs, Alexander said. They came from every ethnicity, background and political spectrum. In short, they looked like anyone of us. Their one common characteristic is that they all took an oath to die for America if called upon. Alexander spoke of the dedication of the living, by continuing the work of those gone before us and preserving the memory of the fallen heroes and unending support of their families. So let us take this time to remember and honor the men and women who have given their lives for this great country. Let us reflect on their courage, their sacrifice and their dedication to a cause greater than themselves, Alexander said. Yakama Nation Tribal Council Chairman Gerald Lewis spoke and sang a song, blessing each and every one in attendance, honoring their loved ones within the Wapato Reservation Cemetery, because it is on the homelands of the Yakama Nation. Yakama Warriors Association head warrior, Vic Wood, spoke before a wreath was laid at the base of the cemeterys flag pole, where the American flag was flown at half-staff. Today we honor those men and women that did not get to take their uniform off. Since World War I, 664,000 men and women paid the supreme sacrifice for you and for me. Today is for those that paid that supreme sacrifice, Wood said. "The ones that are laying in the ground as you walk through the cemeteries and you see K.I.A., that's killed in action. That's why we're here today. It's not a celebration; it's not a 'Happy Memorial Day.' It's a day of honor. I'm so happy that you chose to be here on this day. After Tom and Terry Fisher placed the wreath, Loren Corpuz of the Yakama Warriors Association played taps on his trumpet. Guests stood on their feet, alongside veterans who were standing at attention and gave a salute at the songs end. The ceremony concluded with a performance of Amazing Grace. Editors note: This article was updated to correct Wapato American Legion 133 president Dan Ross's name. RFA/Health Care Access Reporter Santiago Ochoa is a bilingual journalist covering health care access at the Yakima Herald-Republic in Yakima, Washington. Before joining the Herald, Ochoa reported for Flint Beat in Flint, Michigan, covering the citys Latino populationhealth care, education, community building and more, and winning top honors in the Michigan Press Associations feature category. He served as photographer and later editor for his college newspaper, The Michigan Times. When hes not working, Ochoa enjoys cross-country trips on his motorcycle, going to the movies, reading and skiing. 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! BRASILIA, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Tuesday highlighted a "sense of urgency" among South American leaders to strengthen regional integration. "What brings us together today in Brasilia is the sense of urgency to collectively look at our region again," he said at the summit in Brazil's capital Brasilia where leaders from the Union of South American Nations (Unasur) gathered to "relaunch" the regional bloc. "It is the determination to redefine a common vision and relaunch concrete actions for sustainable development, peace and the well-being of our populations," he added. Referring to the political polarization that has characterized the region in recent years, the Brazilian president admitted "we let ideologies divide us" and "we all lost." Lula da Silva proposed a broad cooperation scheme, including the possibility of creating a common regional currency or similar mechanism to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar in trade. "A strong, self-confident and politically organized South America increases the possibilities of affirming a true Latin American and Caribbean identity at the international level," he said. Unasur, an intergovernmental regional organization, was founded in 2008. Present at the summit were the presidents of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay, Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela. If you are sending a Letter To the Editor, please be sure to follow these rules: Letters have a firm 200-word limit and will be edited for grammar, clarity and accuracy. The person who signs the letter must be the author. Anonymous letters will not be considered. Letters must address the editor, not a third party. We will not print form letters, libelous letters, business promotions or personal disputes, poetry, open letters, letters espousing religious views without reference to a current issue, or letters considered in poor taste. Letters reflect the opinion of the writer. The Yakima Herald-Republic cannot verify the accuracy of all statements made in letters. Writers are limited to one published letter per calendar month. FILE - Former President Donald Trump watches the first round of the LIV Golf Tournament at Trump National Golf Club, Friday, May 26, 2023, in Sterling, Va. When Republican Sen. Tim Scott launched his campaign for the White House last week, Trump welcomed his new competitor with open arms. There were no accusations of disloyalty or nasty nicknames from the GOP front-runner like the barrage he unleashed when Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, considered his leading rival, joined the race two days later with a bungled Twitter announcement. Doctors discuss the condition of a patient in an electrocardiogram remote diagnosis center of the First People's Hospital of Jianghan District in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, May 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Yu Pei) WUHAN, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Last month, Qin Qicheng suddenly felt something wrong with his chest. He went to the nearest healthcare center for an electrocardiographic examination. The test results were sent to a higher-level hospital, where a doctor promptly reviewed his situation and gave a diagnosis within minutes. The 72-year-old resident in Jiangxia District, a suburb of Wuhan City, capital of central China's Hubei Province, was diagnosed with an acute anterior myocardial infarction. The higher-level hospital wasted no time in responding to the situation. Just two minutes after receiving the results, the higher-level hospital guided the healthcare center to launch a fast track for Qin, and dispatched an ambulance to transfer him to the higher-level hospital for a coronary artery bypass surgery. From the moment Qin first felt uncomfortable to his arrival at the higher-level hospital, the whole process took a mere hour and a half. China has made significant strides in improving medical services, and it has relocated more resources to grassroots health institutions over the past few years, including advanced medical facilities. This has resulted in more equitable access to medical services for the general public. However, grassroots health institutions in the vast suburban and rural areas, especially those in the remote regions, still face challenges such as a shortage of radiologic technologists and cardiac electrophysiologists. These limitations restrict the diagnostic capabilities of medical institutions at the grassroots level. Thanks to the rapid development of internet technology, many large medical hospitals in Wuhan have launched remote medical services, bringing advanced diagnostic techniques to grassroots healthcare institutions. An increasing number of suburban and rural residents have benefited from the approach. They can now receive health examinations and basic treatment at nearby grassroots health institutions and obtain authoritative diagnoses from higher-level hospitals through remote diagnosis services. "The service is provided free of charge to the residents, aiming to provide them easier and more convenient medical services," said Zhang Chunhong, an official of the health bureau of Jiangxia District. The diagnosis issued by experts from higher-level hospitals can increase patients' confidence, and meanwhile, it is a method to allocate high-quality medical resources to the primary level health institutions, Zhang added. Taking the traditional Chinese medicine of Jiangxia District as an example, more than 320,000 pieces of Digital Radiography and Computed Tomography images have been remotely reviewed since the hospital launched remote image diagnosis in December 2016. In 2021, a remote medical center was jointly established by 20 medical institutions in Wuhan, which provided more than 200,000 remote medical services in 2022, according to the municipal health commission. SHANGHAI, May 31 (Xinhua) -- The 14th Lujiazui Forum, a major financial event, will be held in Shanghai from June 8 to 9, organizers said on Wednesday. The event, themed "Global Financial Opening-up and Cooperation: New Drivers of Economic Recovery," includes seven plenary meetings and three nighttime panel discussions, Ge Ping, deputy director of the Shanghai municipal bureau of local financial regulation, told a press briefing. Over 70 distinguished Chinese and foreign guests are expected to deliver speeches or join panel discussions on hot topics in the economic and financial fields, such as global monetary policy adjustment and financial risk prevention. Ge said authorities will continue to use the event to convey to the outside world China's determination and initiatives to deepen its high-level financial opening-up. The event will be co-chaired by the head of the National Financial Regulatory Administration and the mayor of Shanghai. Zhang Zhongning, an official of the National Financial Regulatory Administration, told reporters that authorities will soon roll out the implementation rules for the construction of an international reinsurance center in Shanghai. Today Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 98F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible. Tonight Clear skies. Low around 65F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph. Tomorrow A mainly sunny sky. High 94F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business. Un tanar de 18 ani, beat turta, ar fi vrut sa se arunce de pe pod in raul Suceava Un tanar de 18 ani a ajuns la Sectia de Psihiatrie din Burdujeni luni, 5 iunie. Acesta a fost observat de un barbat in timp ce se afla peste balustrada podului care traverseaza raul Suceava cu intentia de a se arunca in gol. La [citeste mai departe] A worker weaves bamboo products at a workshop in Xiamu Village of Pingnan Township, Lingshan County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 11, 2018. (Xinhua/Lu Boan) "China has my admiration for unswerving adherence to the construction of ecological civilization," ecological philosopher John Cobb said, adding it is a "wise and far-sighted move," because ecological civilization is the only way for human beings to avoid self-destruction. by Xinhua writer Tan Jingjing LOS ANGELES, May 30 (Xinhua) -- It is urgent for countries around the world to take actions to address plastic pollution, said renowned U.S. ecological philosopher John Cobb, Jr. in an interview with Xinhua ahead of the World Environment Day. The United Nations Environment Programme annually organizes events for the World Environment Day to encourage worldwide awareness and action for the protection of the environment. It is celebrated on June 5 in more than 100 countries. The World Environment Day 2023 will focus on beating plastic pollution and spotlight solutions to plastic pollution. The year marks the 50th anniversary of the World Environment Day. Praising China's "Bamboo Instead of Plastic" initiative, Cobb, a 98-year-old member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, said finding replacements for plastic in many of its current uses would be a "great help." China has launched the "Bamboo Instead of Plastic" initiative with the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization to lead the world in formulating a global action plan. The initiative is expected to deepen cooperation by leveraging bamboo's advantages in reducing pollution by replacing plastic products. File photo of U.S. ecological philosopher John Cobb, Jr. (Photo credit: John Cobb, Jr.) "It (the initiative) may prove a great example of how technology can enable us to maintain economic growth while using only sustainable methods and resources," said Cobb, founding president of the California-based Institute for Postmodern Development of China, a U.S. think tank and non-profit organization. China has been playing a "remarkably positive role" in addressing environmental protection and climate change in recent years, he told Xinhua. "China is working for international peace, and this would allow for great environmental gains. It is also helping many countries develop along the lines measured by GDP," Cobb noted. China's great achievement at home was lifting hundreds of millions of people out of poverty, Cobb said. "China has my admiration for unswerving adherence to the construction of ecological civilization," Cobb noted, adding it is a "wise and far-sighted move," because ecological civilization is the only way for human beings to avoid self-destruction. People collect waste from the beach in Alexandria, Egypt, Aug. 13, 2022. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) Cobb chaired the 16th International Forum on Ecological Civilization, also named the Claremont Eco Forum, held online from May 25 to 27. More than 200 ecological civilization experts and environmentalists from around the world, including the United States, China, Hungary, the United Kingdom, Slovenia, Germany and Singapore, joined in-depth discussions on the theme of deep transformation for ecological civilization. As a prestigious annual event that began in 2006, the Claremont Eco Forum stands as the earliest and largest forum dedicated to ecological civilization in the Western world, Cobb told Xinhua. "Our mission is to gather innovative academics, non-profit leaders, prominent activists, and governmental officials from both China and other nations to explore new worldviews, modes of thinking, developmental models, approaches to organic farming, and educational paradigms in the pursuit of transitioning towards an ecological civilization," he said. BEIJING, May 31 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday slammed Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities for pushing a so-called trade initiative with the United States and yielding to its undue demand. Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, made the comments at a press conference in response to the news that the United States is about to sign the first batch of agreements with the Taiwan region of China under the "U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade." China firmly opposes countries that have diplomatic relations with it negotiating with Taiwan any agreement featuring sovereignty implications or official nature, said Zhu. The so-called initiative is unequal and nothing but a political deal under the guise of economy and trade. The results claimed by the DPP authorities are at the cost of the interests of enterprises and the public on the island, as well as the core industrial edge and overall economic competitiveness of Taiwan, said Zhu. VILLANOVA, Pa. (May 31, 2023)Samer Abboud, PhD, associate professor of Global Interdisciplinary Studies in the Villanova University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, has been awarded a prestigious 2023-2024 U.S. Fulbright Scholar grant by the U.S. Department of State and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. Beginning in January 2024, Abboud will serve as a Fulbright Canada Research Chair in North American Politics at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada. The Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program offers awards to college and university faculty to teach, conduct research and carry out professional projects in more than 135 countries around the world. Recipients of Fulbright grants are selected on the basis of academic and professional achievement, as well as a record of service and demonstrated leadership in their respective fields. Abboud will use his semester-long Fulbright at Carleton University to pursue research on the thousands of Syrian refugees living in Canada following the ongoing Syrian Civil War. His research will adopt lifeworlds, or the lived world that people experience, as a framework to understand how their past lives of authoritarian rule, conflict and displacement are shaping Syrian refugees current lives in Canada. He is specifically interested in how lifeworlds are formed by a range of experiences, emotions, constraints and opportunities that shape their lives, and how they envision their future, especially their decision to either stay in Canada or return to Syria. As a hosting state that has extended citizenship to many Syrian refugees, Canada is an ideal location from which to explore how individual histories, host country policies and imagined futures converge to shape refugees lifeworlds. I am incredibly honored to represent Villanova as a Fulbright Canada Research Chair, said Abboud. More than 10 years after the Syrian conflict began, many of the more than six million displaced Syrians continue to live in conditions of fear and insecurity. I am motivated to pursue research into how Syrian refugee lifeworlds are created in relation to their status in Canada as a way to understand the long-term impacts of displacement and differentiated rights regimes on the lives of Syrian refugees. Abboud joined Villanova in 2018. He holds a PhD in Arab and Islamic Studies from the University of Exeter in England, as well as a MA and a BA in Political Science both from Carleton University. He is the author of three booksSyria, Syria 2nd Edition and Rethinking Hizballah: Authority, Legitimacy, Violence. His research is broadly interested in warfare in Syria and the emergence of an illiberal post-conflict order in the country. Abboud sits on the Editorial Board of Security Dialogue and is a co-editor of Jadaliyyas Syria page. Dr. Abboud is most deserving of this Fulbright Award, said Adele Lindenmeyr, PhD, William and Julia Moulden Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. This opportunity will not only enrich his scholarly expertise in the Middle East and critical security studies but also strengthen his intellectual impact on our campus community as a successful teacher, mentor and incoming Director of the Colleges Center for Arab and Islamic Studies. About Villanova University: Since 1842, Villanova Universitys Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition has been the cornerstone of an academic community in which students learn to think critically, act compassionately and succeed while serving others. There are more than 10,000 undergraduate, graduate and law students in the University's six collegesthe College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Villanova School of Business, the College of Engineering, the M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, the College of Professional Studies and the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law. Ranked among the nations top universities, Villanova supports its students intellectual growth and prepares them to become ethical leaders who create positive change everywhere life takes them. For more, visit www.villanova.edu. For over a hundred years, Nebraskans have gathered on Memorial Day to honor and celebrate the heroes whove died to preserve our freedom in America. In 1888, business student Frisby L. Rasp wrote a letter to his family about Omahas Memorial Day parade, which continues to this day. It was the finest thing I ever saw, Rasp wrote of the parade to his parents in Gresham. The crowd was something wonderful. You would not think there was so many people in Nebraska let alone Omaha. From Omahas National Cemetery to the small towns spread across the state, people gathered to continue the tradition of honoring our fallen heroes on Memorial Day. Cities and towns big and small came together in remembrance of those who have fought for our country. Runners congregated for the Boys Town National Research Hospital Memorial Day Run, which raises money for vulnerable children while honoring the fallen. In the city of Chadron, many attended a special Memorial Day service hosted by St. Patricks Catholic Church at Calvary Cemetery. The stories of Nebraskans who lost their lives in service to our nation are all around us, and we remember them both on Memorial Day and throughout the year. Army Sergeant Wayne Cornell, from Holstein, was a member of the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division. Sergeant Cornell deployed to Iraq with the Army to serve his country. In 2007, he was killed by a roadside bomb in Baghdad. Sergeant 1st Class James Gallegos called him a good soldier, a good leader, a quiet professional in an obituary. The dedicated husband and father left behind a five-year-old son, three-year-old daughter, and one unborn daughter. Wayne, you are truly an American hero. Every time I see a flag, Ill think of you, wrote his sister Janelle. Nebraskans remember Sergeant Cornell when we walk down Wayne R. Cornell Street in Hastings, dedicated to the extraordinary service of this soldier. We honor and remember him this Memorial Day. Sergeant Cory Mracek, born in Chadron, joined the Army in 1986 and was deployed to Korea. Sergeant Mracek later returned to Chadron, but after the attacks on September 11, 2001, he told his mother according to an obituary: I have to go back in the Army, my country needs me. I am trained to fight, and I want to go to Afghanistan. Sergeant Mracek deployed to Iraq in 2004 as part of the 3rd Battalion, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment, 1 Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, and shortly after, he and two others were killed by an improvised explosive device. Nebraskans remember Sergeant Mracek when we visit the Sergeant Cory Mracek Memorial Post Office in Chadron, where this hero spent much of his life. We honor and remember him this Memorial Day. Last month, the new Corporal Daegan Page Memorial Scoreboard was unveiled at the Motto McLean Ice Arena in Omaha. Cpl. Page served in Afghanistan with the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment and was one of 13 American service members killed in a terrorist attack at the Kabul International Airport during the 2021 withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan. Nebraskans will remember Cpl. Page when we see this new scoreboard. We honor and remember him this Memorial Day. These are just a few of the brave men and women who have served us courageously over the centuries, and we were especially grateful for them this Memorial Day weekend. I am sure that generations to come will continue to be amazed, just like Frisby L. Rasp was, at the way thousands of us Nebraskans come together in appreciation of our military. Today and every day, we honor them. Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week. The Indian aviation industry is growing at a tremendous pace, outgrowing some of the biggest global markets in the recent years. As per the data shared by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, more than 1 million passenger footfall was recorded on May 29, 2023 across airports in India, which is among the highest daily passenger traffic in the world. With such fast growth, India needs a vast pool of aviation professionals to cater the rising passengers. From cabin crew to pilots, India is among the biggest job creators in the aviation industry globally. Interestingly, India is also home to the largest number of female commercial pilots in the world. However, more than flying the plane, the female participation is quite evident among cabin crew members. Female cabin crew members are ruling the skies over the Indian airspace, with more than 90 percent of flight attendants being women. As the world celebrates International Flight Attendant Day on May 31, 2023, we got in touch with Deepika Adhikari and Nidhi Chandel, two flight attendants with the India's largest airline IndiGo, to understand the role of cabin crew in a flight, the challenges faced by the female cabin crew members and breaking gender stereotypes. Here's our conversation: What are your responsibilities as a flight attendant? Nidhi Chandel: As a lead cabin attendant, I believe I play a very crucial role in maintaining the safety, comfort, and overall experience of passengers while effectively managing the cabin crew team. Deepika Adhikari: A cabin crew member has to perform multiple tasks during a flight, for a safe and comfortable flying experience of passengers. Some of these tasks includes: a) Conduct safety checks, cabin preparation and passenger checks to ensure safety of all flights and passengers b) Administer and provide excellent in-flight services such as meals, beverages and attend all customer requirements as per organisation's standards c) Provide travellers with all information regarding safety guidelines to be followed while onboard and necessary actions during emergencies d) Manage all communication with the team and management to ensure safety standards in all flights. Challenges faced by cabin crew members Nidhi Chandel: Being a cabin crew can be a challenging job that requires a high level of professionalism, flexibility, and adaptability. A few of the top challenges could be handling medical emergencies, managing long and irregular work hours and coping with jet lag and fatigue. Deepika Adhikari: Challenges are always going to be there, but the important thing is that you can walk through them in a logical, timely way. As a female or let's say after being a mother it was challenging to leave my child alone for couple of days but positive thing about it is that this made him independent. Experience as an IndiGo cabin crew member Nidhi Chandel: For the past 11 incredible years, I have had the privilege of serving as a lead cabin attendant in Indigo. This journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, filled with cherished memories and invaluable experiences. Deepika Adhikari: The experience is wonderful. When I joined Indigo, it was the youngest airline in India and now it's the largest airline. The growth of the organisation, (in one way) for me it's through the feedback we receive when people share their experiences with us. I must say it makes me proud when I introduce myself as a cabin crew at IndiGo. How training with IndiGo helps you overcome problems? Nidhi Chandel: Indeed, the training equips us with the necessary skills, knowledge and confidence to ensure passenger safety, deliver excellent customer service and maintain a calm and professional environment throughout the flight. Deepika Adhikari: Training, of course, has a direct impact on our productivity and performance. It prepares us for the obstacles that will always exist. The goal is to conquer them in an intelligent and timely manner. It was difficult for me to leave my child alone for a few days after becoming a mother, but the positive outcome was that he became more independent. Things you wish passengers knew while travelling? Nidhi Chandel: I wish passengers knew that flight attendants appreciate passengers who demonstrate patience and understanding, especially when faced with delays or other unforeseen circumstances. Flight attendants really work hard to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for everyone, and understanding from passengers can make their job easier. Deepika Adhikari: I'd like the passengers to understand a few things, like how we prioritise safety above all else and how much we value kindness and humility. How was your first flight experience? Nidhi Chandel: As cabin crew, we get to fly to new and exciting destinations on regular basis. I come from a very small town called Nangal in Punjab and when I operated my first international flight, it was an incredibly rewarding experience as I got to explore different cultures, try new foods and see amazing sights. Deepika Adhikari: I remember on my first flight, I was very excited and was completely mesmerized by the view I saw from the flight. The most memorable moments are when we get blessings from our customers. How female cabin crew is breaking gender stereotype? Nidhi Chandel: Cabin crew members can play an important part in breaking down gender stereotypes in the airline industry by promoting diversity, providing mentorship and leading as an example. Deepika Adhikari: It is important to educate self and to spread awareness among the colleagues who unknowingly give gender bias remarks. It's crucial to pursue this career with an open mindset. It is okay to make mistakes as mistakes lead to learning and gives you the opportunity to grow. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Wednesday told the Delhi High Court it was due to a technical glitch on its portal that the applications of several aircraft lessors of Go First for deregistration of their planes were shown as rejected.' The aviation regulator said it was not processing such requests following a moratorium on financial obligations and transfer of assets of the crisis-hit airline in the wake of insolvency resolution proceedings. The lessors are unable to deregister and take back the aircraft leased to the carrier because of the moratorium. Also read: Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin Urges Aviation Minister To Resume Tokyo-Chennai Flights Justice Tara Vitasta Ganju asked the counsel for DGCA as to why different responses were sent to different lessors on repossession requests.Why is there a distinction? There are 7-8 petitions, and each one of them has a different response. Why so? the court asked. The court asked the DGCA counsel to produce the documents in relation to each petitioner lessor on Thursday, when it will hear further arguments on behalf of the aviation regulator. Earlier, the lessors had told the high court that the denial of deregistration by the DGCA was illegitimate.The lawyers for the lessors had said they approached the DGCA for the deregistration of their aircraft, but it rejected their pleas. They had said they have not received any communication from the DGCA, but having checked the status of their applications on the regulator's website, they found their requests have been rejected. Advocate Anjana Gosain, representing DGCA, said it is done in five working days when lessors send deregistration requests to the regulator. She said in this case, no application has been rejected. There was a glitch in the portal due to which it showed that the applications have been rejected, the lawyer said.They have made the applications on the portal on May 4. Unfortunately, a glitch came. When they opened on May 12, it showed them to be rejected, she submitted. When the DGCA received the moratorium communication, it conveyed to the lessors their applications were not being processed because of that, its counsel said. She said she will produce the entire list of 54 applications before the court including those of the petitioners and others. On May 10, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) had admitted the airline's voluntary insolvency resolution petition and appointed Abhilash Lal as the IRP to manage the carrier. Earlier, the NCLT-appointed Interim Resolution Professional (IRP), tasked with managing the crisis-hit Go First, had told the high court that returning aircraft to the lessors will render the airline, which has 7,000 employees to look after, "dead". The IRP was responding to pleas by several aircraft lessors of Go First seeking deregistration of their planes by aviation regulator DGCA so they could take them back from the airline. The lessors who have approached the high court are Accipiter Investments Aircraft 2 Ltd, EOS Aviation 12 (Ireland) Ltd, Pembroke Aircraft Leasing 11 Ltd, SMBC Aviation Capital Ltd, SFV Aircraft Holdings IRE 9 DAC Ltd, ACG Aircraft Leasing Ireland Ltd, and DAE SY 22 13 Ireland Designated Activity Company. On May 22, the NCLAT upheld the order of the Delhi-based principal bench of NCLT, which had admitted the plea of Go First to initiate voluntary insolvency resolution proceedings, and appointed the IRP to suspend the company's board. Several lessors approached the aviation regulator for deregistration and repossession of 45 planes they had leased to the carrier. Indigo, the domestic budget airline, which also happens to be the largest domestic air carrier in India, is expanding internationally at a rapid pace. Under its international plans, the airline entered a codeshare agreement with Turkish Airline few years back. Later, the airline started flights on India-Turkey route, connecting Delhi and Istanbul via direct flights. However, the airline initially deployed its Airbus A321 narrow body single aisle plane on the international routes. Some time back, Indigo Airline wet leased a Turkish Airline's Boeing 777 to deploy on the sector. However, for a long time, the flight was operated wearing the Turkish Airlines livery, rather than Indigo's colours. Now, Indigo has received its first-ever wide-body aircraft painted in the brand's white and blue livery, making Indigo only the second airline in India to induct the wide body Boeing 777 aircraft. The B777 recently landed in India, showcasing its livery and will serve on the Delhi-Istanbul route. The Boeing 777 aircraft has a total seating capacity of 400 passengers and is one of the largest operating wide planes in the world, ever since Boeing discontinued B747 and Airbus stopped A380 production. Before Indigo, only Air India had Boeing 777 aircraft in its fleet. In fact, Air India recently inducted the B777 planes, under their massive transformation plans. Leaving aside the commercial airliners, India got its first introduction with the Boeing 777 in the form of the Air India One, the VVIP duo of the planes, inducted by the government of India to ferry the Prime Minister and President on their international visits. The Air India One B777 planes replaced the ageing Boeing 747 VVIP plane. As for the wide body planes in India, apart from Air India and Indigo, only Vistara has deployed Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for its international operations. No other Indian airline has wide body planes, including the ones serving international routes, including Spicejet and Go First. As for the Indigo, through a codeshare arrangement with Turkish Airlines, the airline is providing connectivity to 33 European destinations, which includes countries such as Bulgaria, Spain, the Netherlands, Greece, Belgium, Hungary, Denmark, the Republic of Ireland, the UK, Malta, France, the Czech Republic, Israel, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Portugal, and Edinburgh. These wide-body aircraft have been introduced to meet the growing demand for international travel from India. "We are pleased to induct our second Boeing 777 aircraft on damp lease, which will operate on the Mumbai-Istanbul route. Through this addition, we are implementing our strategy and delivering on our promise to provide more convenient travel options for people looking to travel between India and Europe this summer," Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo, said earlier this month. May 13, 2023, Frankfurt am Main, Germany On Saturday, May 21, 2022, the energetic city of Frankfurt am Main will play host to Sounds of Rainbow (SoR) 2023, the largest Indo-German music festival in Germany. This eagerly awaited multi-cultural music and dance extravaganza will highlight the diverse cultural heritage of India and bring together individuals from various backgrounds to celebrate friendship and unity. Sounds of Rainbow 2023 will be held in Frankfurt am Main, a location renowned for its financial and economic power. It will play a significant role in the cultural landscape. This extraordinary event is set against the backdrop of one of Europe's most significant economic metropolises, with a strong emphasis on finance, banking, and technology. Frankfurt Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, serves as a hub for international air traffic, demonstrating Frankfurt am Main's connectivity to the rest of the world. The city's economic importance is increased by the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, a significant participant in the global financial market, and it is established as a key transportation hub in Germany and Europe thanks to its well-developed network of highways, railways, and public transportation. A further indication of the city's multifaceted significance in the economic, political, and cultural spheres is its status as a center for trade shows, conferences, and significant events. India is very important to Germany because of its influence on the economy, culture, and politics. India offers a sizable market that has drawn interest from all over the world as an emerging economic powerhouse with an annual growth rate of 7-8%. The BJP-led NDA government came to power in 2014 with Narendra Modi taking oath for the first time as the Prime Minister of the country on 26 May 2014. In 2019, Modi again became the PM, taking oath for the second time in May. The Modi administration has introduced a number of people-focused programmes throughout the last nine years. Here's looking at some milestone reforms and decisions taken by the NDA Government that shows how the centre went an extra mile for farmers welfare. PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme PM-KISAN is a central sector scheme launched on 24th February, 2019 to supplement financial needs of land holding farmers. Financial benefit of Rs 6000 per year in three equal installments, every four month is transferred into the bank accounts of farmers families across the country through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode. The scheme was initially meant for small and marginal farmers (SMFs) having landholding upto 2 hectares but scope of the scheme was extended to cover all landholding farmers with effect from 01.06.2019. So far, the government has released 13 instalments under PM Kisan Yojana. PM Modi handed out the 13th tranche of around Rs 16,000 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) to eligible farmers by releasing direct benefits transfer to more than 8 crore beneficiaries. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana was launched in 2016. PMFBY is an actuarial premium based scheme under which the highest premium that farmers must pay for Kharif, Rabi food and oilseed crops, and annual commercial/horticultural crops is 2%, 1.5%, and 5%, respectively. The remaining portion of the actuarial/bidded premium is split equally by the central government and state governments. The scheme's ability to facilitate quick claims settlement is one of its goals. The system criteria stipulate that claims must be settled within two months of harvest, subject to timely delivery of yield statistics and the State Government's part of the premium subsidy. National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) Scheme National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 2016. e-NAM is completely funded by the Central Government and is implemented by Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC), under the aegis of Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. e-NAM platform promotes better marketing opportunities for the farmers to sell their produce through online competitive and transparent price discovery system and online payment facility. National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is a pan-India electronic trading portal which networks the existing Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) mandis to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojna (PMKMY) Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojna (PMKMY) was launched by PM Modi in 2019 provide social security net for the Small and Marginal Farmers (SMF) by way of pension. Under this scheme, provision has been made for payment of a minimum fixed pension of Rs. 3,000/- to the eligible small and marginal farmers, subject to certain exclusion clauses, on attaining the age of 60 years. The Scheme is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme, with entry age of 18 to 40 years. The eligible beneficiary can opt to become member of the Scheme by subscribing to a Pension Fund. The beneficiary is required to contribute Rs 100/ - per month at median entry age of 29 years. The Central Government also contributes to the Pension Fund in equal amount, managed by the Life Insurance Corporation, which is also responsible for pension pay out. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) is an umbrella scheme, consisting of two major components -- Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP), and Har Khet Ko Pani (HKKP). BEIJING, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Li Guilin, a farmer in east China's Fujian Province, has carefully preserved his forestry ownership certificate throughout the years. The certificate, the first of its kind in China, was issued over 20 years ago. For Li, the certificate means that the forestland concerned is at his disposal and he has the right to benefit from it. "The mountains are still there, but now they belong to us. We feel much assured," Li said. The issuance of this certificate marked a groundbreaking reform that held profound significance for millions of farmers like Li. Although Fujian is a province rich in forest resources, many farmers there used to lead a hard life due to unclear ownership of the green mountains outside their doors. Zhang Linshun, then a village official in Changkou in Fujian's Sanming city, recalls a time in the 1990s when his village was devoid of concrete roads, adequate housing, and functional streetlamps. The economic conditions were modest, with the annual per capita income reaching about 2,000 yuan (about 242 U.S. dollars). The issue caught the attention of Xi Jinping, who was then a provincial official in Fujian. Between 1996 and 2002, Xi made 11 visits to Sanming for fact-finding research and studies, traveling to all 12 county-level regions in Sanming and visiting 62 towns and villages. During his visit to Zhang's village in 1997, Xi encountered a contentious debate among the locals regarding the potential logging of trees for financial gain. To resolve the issue, Xi engaged in a talk with the villagers. "He asked very detailed questions, like 'what are the sources for the village's revenues,' 'how much you earn each year,' and about our future plans," Zhang recalled. Looking at the scenic beauty of the village, Xi told the villagers "green mountains and clear waters are priceless treasure." During his visit to another village in Sanming, Xi stressed the importance of not only prioritizing ecological considerations but also recognizing forestry resources as a viable industry that can generate economic benefits for farmers. "Xi often conducted research in the forestry areas, and fully understood the difficulties faced by the province as well as people's expectations, which strengthened his resolve to promote the reform," said Huang Jianxing, then head of the forestry bureau in Fujian. Based on the learnings from the research and study tours, Xi decided to launch a reform to address the unclear forest tenure and other relevant institutional and structural problems. "We carried out extensive research and full analyses on four key problems -- how to distribute forestland; how to plan for logging; how to make the necessary funds available to farmers and how to integrate scattered pieces of forestland operated by individual households," Xi once said when reflecting on the initial stages of the reform. At that time, the reform was a risky move, as the central authorities had once suspended the contracting of hills to households due to destructive logging in some areas in the 1980s. About 20 years on, people were uncertain whether the policy could be resumed. However, after careful consideration, Xi concluded that since forest tenure concerned the people's immediate interests, problems should be addressed as early as possible. Also, as long as there is a sensible policy adopted with effective methods, relevant risks could be mitigated. The reform was first piloted in Li's village in Sanming's Wuping County under which farmers could be allocated land on the basis of a contract and were entitled to any surpluses to the market or retain them for their own use. Xi, then governor of Fujian, later endorsed the policy during his visit to the village in 2002. "The reform of the forestry system is on the right track. It should be advanced in a down-to-earth way to better benefit the people," he said. In 2008, the central authorities included all of Fujian's experience and initiated the nationwide reform of collective forest tenure. Since then, with new rounds of policies introduced, collective forest tenure reform has been consistently deepened. Today, experts draw parallels between this reform and the household contract responsibility system implemented in the early stages of reform and opening up, recognizing its profound historic significance for farmers residing in mountainous and forest regions. In Zhang's village, the per capita income of villagers rose to 30,000 yuan in 2022, up more than 12 times from that in 1997. The annual revenue of the village reached 1.85 million yuan, increasing more than 60-fold from about 25 years ago. In 2021, Xi, as the country's top leader, again visited Sanming. When reviewing the progress of the forestry reform at a rural property rights transaction center, Xi said Sanming is an important birthplace of such reforms, underlining the importance of "combining top-level design with grassroots exploration in pushing forward reforms." New Delhi: India's fiscal deficit (INFISC=ECI) for the financial year ended March 31 touched 17.3 trillion rupees ($209.46 billion), nearly 99% of the revised annual estimate, government data showed on Wednesday. The federal government met targetted fiscal deficit of 6.4% of the gross domestic product, helped by higher tax revenue even as spending increased, as per a statement. The government will release the revised GDP estimate later in the day. Net tax receipts through April-March were 20.97 trillion rupees or 100.5% of the annual revised estimate, 15.2% higher than the previous financial year, per the data. Total expenditure during the period was 41.89 trillion rupees or 100% of the annual goal and 10.4% higher than the government's spending last year. The government's capital spending on infrastructure projects increased 24.2% from last year to 7.36 trillion rupees, aiding the economy. Meanwhile, data for April 2023 - the first month of the new financial year - showed the fiscal deficit at 7.5% of the full-year estimate. Expenditure in the first month of the financial year was 10.6% higher than a year ago, while net tax collections were 14% lower than last year. India has targeted a budget deficit of 5.9% for the fiscal year that started April 1. "Higher than budgeted dividend surplus transfer of 874.2 billion rupees from the Reserve Bank of India is likely to provide some cushion to meet any undershooting in other revenues streams or overshooting in expenses, relative to respective budget estimates," said Aditi Nayar, an economist at ICRA. GSEB 12th Arts, Commerce Result 2023: The Gujarat Board Class 12th Results 2023 for the Commerce and Arts stream released by the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB). The official announcement for the GSEB 12th Arts, Commerce Result 2023 states that Gujarat Board released the GSEB HSC 12th Result 2023 on May 31, 2023 at 8 am. The official website of the Gujarat education board got crashed after the result as the students have flooded to check their results. Students can check and download their GSEB 12th Arts and Commerce Results 2023 on the official website, gseb.org. Students need to enter their roll number, date of birth, and other information on the GSEB result website in order to get their Class 12th board arts and commerce results. GSEB HSC result 2023: How to check your marks on website STEP 1- Go to gseb.org. STEP 2- Now, open the HSC result 2023 link. STEP 3- Enter the asked information and login. STEP 4- Check and download your result. GSEB HSC Arts, Commerce Results 2023: Steps to Check Result Via SMS - Go to the messaging app and create a new SMS. - After that, in the body right GJ12SSeat Number. - Send the message to 58888111. - After a short while, the result will be sent to your phone. GSEB Board Class 12th Result 2023: Steps to check Results via Whatsapp Students can now also check GSEB Result 2023 through WhatsApp also. Follow the steps below to get your result via WhatsApp. Step 1: Save the 6357300971 number on your phone as GSEB contact Step 2: Open the WhatsApp application on your smartphone Step 3: Open the GSEB chat box Step 4: Type your board seat number and click on send Step 5: Your GSEB 12th Result 2023 mark sheet appears on the screen GSEB Result 2023: Here's how to check scores via Digilocker Step 1 - Go to the official website of DigiLocker at digilocker.gov.in. Step 2 - If you dont have an account, click the Sign Up" option and create a new account by providing the necessary details. Step 3 - Use your login information to access your account if you already have one. Step 4 - Once logged in, navigate to the education section. Step 5 - Look for the option related to the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB) or Gujarat 12th Result. Step 6 - Click on the respective option and provide the required details such as your roll number, registration number, and any other necessary information. Step 6 - After entering the details, click on the Submit" or Get Result" button. Step 7 - Your GSEB Class 12 Result will be displayed on the screen. MG Comet EV has been launched in India with a price of Rs 7.98 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. The vehicle is attracting a lot of attention in the country because of its compact size. Furthermore, the car offers multiple other unique features like a minimalist interior and multiple unique paint schemes. Emphasizing this quality, a picture of the MG Comet EV with quirky yellow and red paint was shared on social media. To be specific, the unique paint job was done on the Chinese version of the vehicle sold with the Wuling Air EV in other markets. The pictures of the MG Comet EV show the top end of the electric vehicle painted in Yellow color. Getting in detail, all the pillars of the car, including the roof, have a bright Yellow colour, while the lower half of the EV, including the bumper, the two doors, and the rear end of the car, have an eye-catching red colour. Also read: Iconic Kinetic Luna To Make A Comeback As An Electric Moped, CEO Confirms Once the picture went viral on social media, many social users started comparing the electric vehicle to "Winnie the Pooh" and "Happy Meal" of Mcdonald's. The social media account even shared pictures of the EV placed in a setup of the cartoon character's home. MG Comet EV is sold in India in three variants, namely, Pace, Play, and Plus. The most expensive of these variants is priced at Rs 9.98 lakh (ex-showroom). With 12-inch steel wheels, the EV stands at three meters in length, 1,640 mm in height, and 1,505 mm in width. With a 17.3kWh battery, the Comet EV has an ARAI-certified range of 230km. Using the 3.3kW onboard charger provided by MG, the battery can be fully charged in seven hours. It does not, however, support DC rapid charging. 42 horsepower and 110 Nm of torque are produced by the single electric motor on the front axle. The Comet has manual AC controls, keyless entry, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay compatibility, among other features. ABS, EBD, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a reverse camera and sensors, and dual front airbags are among the safety features. New Delhi: Around 40 medical colleges across the country have lost recognition over the past two months allegedly for not following standards set by the National Medical Commission (NMC), official sources said on Tuesday. About 100 more medical colleges in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Assam, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry and West Bengal may also face similar action, they said. The colleges were not found to be complying with the set norms and several lapses related to CCTV cameras, Aadhaar-linked biometric attendance procedures and faculty rolls were found during inspections carried out by the Commission, an official source said. According to government data, the number of medical colleges has increased significantly since 2014. There is an increase of 69 per cent in medical colleges from 387 before 2014 to 654 as of now, Minister of State for Health Bharati Pravin Pawar had told the Rajya Sabha in February. Further, there is an increase of 94 per cent in MBBS seats from 51,348 before 2014 to 99,763 as of now and an increase of 107 per cent in PG seats from 31,185 before 2014 to 64,559 as of now. To increase the number of doctors in the country, the government has increased the number of medical colleges and subsequently increased MBBS seats, she had said. The measures and steps taken by the government to increase the number of medical seats in the country include a centrally-sponsored scheme for the establishment of new medical colleges by upgrading district/referral hospitals, under which 94 new medical colleges are already functional out of 157 approved. Reacting to his derecognition of medical colleges, experts from the medical field said the NMC is largely relying on the Aadhaar-enabled biometric attendance system for which it considers only the faculty who are on duty during daytime from 8 am to 2 pm. "But the working hours of doctors are not fixed. They have to work in emergency and at night shifts also. So the NMC's rigidity with the working hours has created this issue. Such micro-management of medical colleges is not practical and the NMC needs to be flexible to such issues," an expert said. Another expert said, "The NMC is derecognising medical colleges believing there are deficiencies. At the same time, the NMC has also allowed the registration of students in such colleges, which is a contradiction. Moreover, such an experiment is tarnishing India's image at the global level because India is the largest supplier of doctors and with such instances coming to light, the world will lose confidence in Indian doctors." New Delhi: The NCERT has dropped references to the demand for a separate Sikh nation Khalistan from the class 12 political science textbook following objections from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), according to top education ministry officials. The SGPC had last month alleged that the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) misrepresented historical details about Sikhs in its Class 12 political science textbook. The Sikh body's objection pertained to the mention of the Anandpur Sahib resolution in the book "Politics In India Since Independence". The dropped sentences are -- "the resolution was a plea for strengthening federalism but it could also be interpreted as a plea for a separate Sikh nation" and "the more extreme elements started advocating secession from India and the creation of 'Khalistan'". The statements have been rewritten as "the resolution was a plea for strengthening federalism". "Representation from SGPC was received regarding withdrawing objectionable content against Sikh community by misrepresenting Sri Anandpur Sahib resolution. A committee of experts was constituted by NCERT to examine the issue and the decision was taken on basis of the recommendations of the panel," said Sanjay Kumar, School Education Secretary, Ministry of Education. "A corrigendum has been issued by NCERT. While the physical books for the new academic session have already been printed, the changes will reflect in the digital books," Kumar added. The Anandpur Sahib resolution was a document adopted by the Shiromani Akali Dal in 1973. The resolution affirmed the party's commitment to the Sikh religion and demanded greater autonomy for Punjab. It also demanded that the city of Chandigarh should be handed over to Punjab and that Punjabi should be given second-language status in neighbouring states. Dropping several topics and portions from the NCERT textbooks had last month triggered a controversy with the Opposition blaming the Centre of "whitewashing with vengeance". At the heart of the row was the fact that while the changes made as part of the rationalisation exercise were notified, some of these controversial deletions weren't mentioned in them. This led to allegations about a bid to delete these portions surreptitiously. The NCERT had described the omissions as a possible oversight but refused to undo the deletions, saying they were based on the recommendations of experts. It has also said the textbooks are anyway headed for revision in 2024 when the National Curriculum Framework kicks in. However, later NCERT had changed its stand and said "minor changes need not be notified". Among the references that were dropped from class 12 history textbook were certain portions on Mahatma Gandhi and how his pursuit of Hindu-Muslim unity "provoked Hindu extremists", and on a ban on the RSS. "Gandhiji's death had magical effect on communal situation in the country", "Gandhi's pursuit of Hindu-Muslim unity provoked Hindu extremists" and "Organisations like RSS were banned for some time" are among the portions deleted from the textbook. The portions referring to Gujarat riots were also dropped from class 11 sociology textbook, months after NCERT removed the reference to the 2022 communal violence in two class 12 textbooks. New Delhi: Hours after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's 'Prime Minister Narendra Modi will start explaining to God' jibe in the US, Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Wednesday accused him of 'insulting India' during his foreign visits. Gandhi, who is on a week-long visit to the US, said that some groups in India have the 'disease' of being under the impression that they know everything. "If you make him (PM Modi) sit with God, he would start explaining to him (God) how the universe works... and God would get confused about what I had created," Rahul Gandhi said at an event in San Francisco. Hitting back at the former Congress president, Anurag Thakur said that Rahul couldn't digest the fact that Australian PM Anthony Albanese called PM Modi 'Boss' during his recent foreign visits. "During his foreign visits, Rahul Gandhi insults India. PM Modi met almost 24 PMs and Presidents of the world & held over 50 meetings during his foreign visit recently and when the Australian PM said that 'PM Modi is the Boss', Rahul Gandhi could not digest this," the news agency ANI quoted Thakur as saying. While addressing the Indian dispora in an event in San Francisco, California, the former Congress MP said, "In India, we grew up with people of different languages, different religions. And that is what is being attacked. The tradition in India, of people like Gandhi Ji and Guru Nanak Ji, has been that you should not be under the impression of knowing everything. It is a 'disease' that some groups of India think that they know everything. Even if they have a conversation with God, they might explain to him." Also Read: At 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' Event In US, Rahul Slams Centre For Trying To Stop 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' 'Minorities Feeling Attacked Under BJP Govt': Rahul Gandhi was answering a question from the 'Bay Area Muslim community' while peaking at an event in Santa Clara, California. The Congress leader said, " The way Muslims are feeling attacked, I can guarantee Sikhs, Christians, Dalits and Tribals are feeling the same. What is happening to Muslims in India today happened to Dalits in the 1980s". Taking a swipe at the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party government, Rahul said it is 'threatening' the people and 'misusing' the country's agencies. Gandhi accused the BJP and the RSS of dominating all the political instruments in India. He said he understood that the usual methods that were used in politics in the past were no longer effective before he began his Bharat Jodo Yatra. NEW DELHI: Union Minister and senior BJP leader Smriti Irani on Wednesday took a swipe at Rahul Gandhi after a tweet from Congress Twitter handle declared her missing. Hitting out at the main opposition party, Irani said Congress should "contact US" if they are looking for Rahul Gandhi. "O divine political creature, I have just left Sirsira village, Vidhan Sabha Salon, Lok Sabha Amethi towards Dhuranpur. If looking for former MP, please contact US," she said in a tweet in Hindi. , , , https://t.co/2rEUKLPCK8 Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) May 31, 2023 The response from Irani came shortly after the Congress shared a poster indicating Irani was missing, in an apparent dig at the Union Ministers silence over the ongoing wrestlers' protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. It may be noted that Irani had wrested Amethi - the Gandhi family stronghold by defeating Rahul Gandhi in 2019. Rahul Gandhi, who faced defeat in Amethi, won from Kerala's Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency that he lost after being sentenced to two years in jail by a Surat court in a defamation case earlier this year. Rahul Gandhi is currently touring the US where his latest attack on the Narendra Modi government has irked the ruling BJP once again. Speaking at a gathering of the Indian diaspora in California on Wednesday, Rahul Gandhi said, "I think if you sat Modi Ji down next to God, he would start explaining to God how the universe works. And God would get confused about what I have created. Notable, Smriti Irani last week urged the people of Kerala to ensure the defeat of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad as he deprived Amethi of development and he will do the same in his constituency of the southern state. Crediting herself for having ousted Rahul Gandhi from the Gandhi family Lok Sabha bastion in Uttar Pradesh's Amethi, she said that the Congress leader, who was elected as a member of Parliament from Kerala's Wayanad, should be defeated in the upcoming general elections next year. "It was me who sent him to Wayanad from Uttar Pradesh. What was the reason behind (Congress) sending him to Wayanad? When he was an MP there, 80 per cent of the people didn't have electricity, the district collector didn't have an office, there was no fire station. When the Wayanad MP (Rahul Gandhi) was in Amethi, there was no medical college. There was no Sainik School or Kendriya Vidyalaya. When he left (in 2019), all this was possible," the Union Minister said. "If he (Rahul Gandhi) is here (Wayanad), the same (previous) situation as Amethi will be in Wayanad. So you (the people of Kerala) should ensure that he is not here," she told while addressing the state-level women's labour convention's inauguration organised by the Kerala unit of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS). New Delhi: Two people were killed and four others were seriously injured when a bus veered off the road near Chandi Chowki Haridwar on Wednesday morning, news agency ANI quoted police as saying. "The accident occured on Najibabad Road near Haridwar's Chandi Chowk. The bus lost control and crashed 20 metres below the main road. The bus conductor and a 10-month-old girl were killed," ANI quoted SDRF as saying. The bus from Rupahiya to Haridwar was operated by Uttarakhand Roadways. They added that there were 41 people on the bus. "Upon receiving the information, Uttarakhand Police, SDRF, and Fire Service personnel responded immediately and rescued the injured," police said. According to officials, all of the injured have been taken to a hospital and are being treated. Also Read: 10 Dead, 55 Injured After Bus Carrying Vaishno Devi Pilgrims Falls Into Gorge In Jammu Earlier on Tuesday, a bus fell into a gorge after skidding off a bridge in Jammu district, killing eight persons and injuring 30, news agency ANI quoted official as saying. The bus was on its way to Katra and had pilgrims from outside Jammu and Kashmir who were going to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. The incident took place near Jhajjar Kotli - about 15km from Katra in Jammu district. The famous shrine is located on top of Trikuta hills and Katra is the base camp for the visitors. The rescue operation was launched by local residents and police who reached the spot. The injured were taken to the Government Medical College Hospital in Jammu. A bus fell into a gorge after skidding off a bridge in Jammu district, killing eight persons and injuring 30, news agency ANI quoted official as saying on Tuesday. The bus was on its way to Katra and had pilgrims from outside Jammu and Kashmir who were going to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. The incident took place near Jhajjar Kotli - about 15km from Katra in Jammu district. The famous shrine is located on top of Trikuta hills and Katra is the base camp for the visitors. The rescue operation was launched by local residents and police who reached the spot. The injured were taken to the Government Medical College Hospital in Jammu. Assistant Commandant Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Ashok Choudhary said that a crane was brought to check if someone is trapped under the bus. Mumbai: Superstar Aamir Khan could not stop himself from shaking a leg after receiving a Punjabi-styled welcome at the trailer launch of 'Carry on Jatta 3' in Mumbai on Tuesday. A video from the event has been doing the rounds on the internet in which he is seen grooving to the Punjabi beats on the dhol. He also did the Bhangra with dancers present at the event. Aamir's Bhangra moves have impressed the netizens. "How cute," a social media user commented. "Hhahaha Aamir's Bhangra is on point," another one wrote. Aamir looked adorable in an easy-breezy kurta, paired with blue jeans and boots. Interestingly, at the event, Aamir also expressed his desire to do a Punjabi film. "If I like the story, I will do the film irrespective of the language. The stars that did Punjabi films in earlier times like Yusuf sahab Raj Kapoor ji knew Punjabi...so it was quite natural for them to speak Punjabi. In my case, Punjabi is not my first language, but I would love to do it given a chance." Aamir was last seen in the film 'Laal Singh Chaddha' opposite Kareena Kapoor Khan. An official announcement of his next film is still awaited. Congress leader and MP from Kerala Shashi Tharoor blamed centre for putting too much focus on the Vande Bharat Express, while rail passengers are not able to get confirmed berths. In a series of tweets, Tharoor said that a confirmed railway berth should no longer be merely about luck but a normal facility, and also called the lopsided focus on Vande Bharat worrying. The senior Congress leader and former UN diplomat cited media reports which in turn quoted an RTI reply stating that more than 2.7 crore passengers could not travel by train in 2022-23 despite buying tickets because of being waitlisted. "When are the long waitlists in the Indian Railways going to end? With 2.7 crore waitlisted passengers denied a confirmed seat, the year registered the largest number of tickets that remained waitlisted before they were automatically cancelled," Tharoor wrote on Twitter. This has been the trend, with every year breaking the previous year's record, the MP from Thiruvananthapuram said. "This has been the trend, with every year breaking the previous record. Introduction of #VandeBharat is welcome but the lopsided focus on it is worrying. In our 75th year of Independence, a confirmed railway berth should no longer be merely about luck but a normal facility. The matter must urgently seize the Government's focused attention," he added. In a recent reply to an RTI plea filed by Madhya Pradesh-based activist Chandra Shekhar Gaur, the Railway Board revealed that in 2022-2023, 1.76 crore Passenger Name Record (PNR) numbers were logged, against which 2.72 crore passengers who were scheduled to travel, were automatically cancelled due to being waitlisted. In 2021-2022, a total of 1.06 crore PNR numbers were logged, against which 1.65 crore passengers were scheduled to travel, were automatically cancelled. After cancellation of PNRs, the ticket fare is refunded to the passengers. The inability to provide confirmed tickets to passengers has been a recurrent problem with the national transporter, reported PTI. On the other hand, the Indian Railways has launched multiple Vande Bharat Express trains across India, including the newly inaugurated Guwahati-New Jalpaiguri Vande Bharat Express, which was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the Northeast's first Vande Bharat train. The Chinese Embassy in Zambia and the Chinese Medical Team on Tuesday donated money and care packages to children in need in Zambia ahead of International Children's Day. Produced by Xinhua Global Service The made-in-India Vande Bharat Express has generated a tremendous response from the travellers and is getting a lot of push from the Ministry of Railways itself. The semi-high speed train is a pet project for the Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself, who launches every single Vande Bharat Express in India. With such high enthusiasm among the government and the travellers, the Indian Railways is working to make the Vande Bharat trains even more attractive for the passengers. Recently, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confimed that they are working to launch three variants of the Vande Bharat Express soon. While the current version of Vande Bharat Express will be the Chair Car variant for travel between cities located within a distance of 150-600 km, there will also be Vande Bharat Metro for cities within 100-150 km range serving as a Urban train connectivity network and also sleeper version of the Vande Bharat Express, covering distances above 600 km, replacing Rajdhani Express in the longer run. Among these, Indian Railways is further working to increase the speed of the Vande Bharat sleeper version that can touch a speed of 220 kmph, 40 kmph more than that of the chair car version of the current generation of Vande Bharat trains. The semi-high speed trains will be made using aluminium, instead of steel, which will reduce the weight of the train, hence increasing the speed. While the top speed of the sleeper version of Vande Bharat trains will be 220 kmph, making them the fastest trains in India, it will run at a speed of 200 km per hour on the tracks said an Railway official earlier. This also means, once on tracks, the new sleeper Vande Bharat trains will replace Delhi-Meerut RRTS trains as the fastest train in India. The RRTS has a top speed of 180 kmph as well. The current gen Vande Bharat Express has a top speed of 180 kmph, but only does 160 kmph (on certain sections) due to safety constraints. The Railways has issued a tender for 400 Vande Bharat trains. Some of the initial lot of such trains could also be sleeper versions of the indigenously made trains, according to officials. Four major domestic and foreign companies have come forward for the production. According to the plan, the first 200 Vande Bharat trains will have the seating arrangement on the lines of Shatabdi Express and will be designed to travel at a speed of 180 km per hour. In the second phase, 200 Vande Bharat trains will be sleepers and they will be made of aluminium. "The second version of the sleeper Vande Bharat trains will run at a maximum speed of 200 km per hour. For this, the tracks of Delhi-Mumbai, Delhi-Kolkata railways are being repaired, signal system, bridges are being fixed, and fencing work is going on," an official said, reported PTI. New Delhi: After visiting Siddhivanayak Temple in Mumbai for seeking Bappas blessings for his new show on ZEE TV - 'Pyaar Ka Pehla Adhyaya Shiv Shakti', popular actor and star Arjun Bijlani has landed in Varanasi to shoot a promo for this exciting new show. It seems that his first look from the show has been leaked where Arjun is spotted taking a dip in the holy Ganga, well, we have to say his fans are going to love his super-fit, shirtless look. In fact, the actor was glad that he could start shooting for his next on the pious day of Ganga Dussehra. And looks like his fans cant keep calm about seeing their favourite star on screen again as they go gaga over his videos and photos which have gone viral on social media! In the meantime, stay tuned as Pyaar Ka Pehla Adhyaya Shiv Shakti is all set to premiere soon on Zee TV. New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi arrived in the United States on Tuesday for a three-city tour during which he will interact with the Indian diaspora and meet American lawmakers. He, however, had to wait for a couple of hours at the San Francisco airport for immigration clearance. While he was waiting in the queue, several people who were travelling with him on the same flight were also seen clicking pictures with him. When people asked him why he was standing in the queue, Rahul Gandhi reportedly said, "I am a common man. I like it. I am no longer an MP." "After a 16-hour flight, waited another 2 hours at San Francisco airport for immigration with Rahul Gandhi, who was besieged with selfie requests by other passengers in the queue," a Congress leader said in a tweet and shared two pictures with him. After a 16 hour flight, waited another 2 hours at San Francisco airport for immigration with @RahulGandhi, who was beseiged with selfie requests by other passenegers in the queue.#RGinUS . pic.twitter.com/Luoyz1EF35 Praveen Chakravarty (@pravchak) May 30, 2023 It is notable that the former Congress president had applied for an ordinary passport after surrendering the old diplomatic passport issued to him when he was a member of Parliament from Kerala. Gandhi was disqualified as an MP in March this year following his conviction and two-year sentence by a Gujarat court in a defamation case over his 'Modi surname' remark. Rahul Gandhi is on a week-long US tour during which he is scheduled to interact with the Indian diaspora and meet American lawmakers. He is slated to conclude his trip with a public gathering in New York on June 4. The interaction would take place at the Javits Center in New York. He was received at the San Franciso airport by Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda and other members of the IOC. Pitroda said Gandhi's visit is aimed at promoting shared values and a vision of 'real democracy'. Rahul Gandhi received by @sampitroda & IOC USA team at San Francisco airport ! pic.twitter.com/JysH1Ckj5c Indian Overseas Congress (@INCOverseas) May 30, 2023 "The purpose of his (Gandhi's) trip is to connect, interact and begin a new conversation with various individuals, institutions and media, including the Indian diaspora that is growing in numbers in the United States and abroad to promote the shared values and vision of the real democracy with a focus on freedom, inclusion, sustainability, justice, peace and opportunities world over," Pitroda said in a statement. Aamir Khan, the Mr Perfectionist Of Bollywood, is known for his humour. And, fans got a glimpse of that when the actor attended the trailer launch of Gippy Grewal's upcoming Punjabi film, Carry On Jatta 3, in Mumbai. Aamir was joined by comedian-actor Kapil Sharma. Sonam Bajwa, who will be seen playing the role of Gippy Grewals love interest in the film, was also part of the trailer launch event. But it was Aamir and Kapil Sharmas fun exchange that stole all the limelight. Aamir complained that the comedian never invited him to The Kapil Sharma Show. Not just that, the actor also heaped praises on Kapil Sharma. Aamir added that he is a big fan of the comedians work. The unmissable banter between the two will definitely leave you in splits. When Aamir Khan complained about not being invited to The Kapil Sharma Show In a video, Aamir Khan gives a shout-out to Kapil Sharma. "I am a big fan of Kapil Sharma. He has made many of my evenings wonderful, I have laughed so much and he is so entertaining that I called him a few weeks back to thank him for entertaining me. It is such a big thing to entertain people and I am one of your biggest fans." Aamir goes on to complain about why the comedian never invites him to his show. "I am asking this before he can say anything. I am a step ahead of Kapil. Talking about his work slate, Aamir Khan adds, "I enjoy watching stuff that has comedy with my family and I have been watching his show for the last few months. I have become his big fan." After this, Kapil Sharma hugs Aamir Khan and reveals, "It would be our good fortune to have you on our show. I have always met him in the crowd and have always requested him to come to our show. But he used to say that he is going somewhere and will meet once he is back." To this, Aamir replies, I just want to come to entertain and not for any film promotions. Aamir Khan was last seen in Laal Singh Chaddha. The film, directed by Advait Chandan, was a Hindi remake of the all-time Hollywood classic Forrest Gump. It starred Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks in the lead role. The film also featured Kareena Kapoor Khan. Aamir also had a cameo appearance in Kajols Salaam Venky. On May 30, the Modi government celebrated its ninth anniversary, a significant milestone in which numerous reforms and policy initiatives were implemented in India to enhance the lives of women and elevate their social standing. Whether it was over 9.6 crore women beneficiaries of the Ujjwala Yojana, over 27 crore Jan Dhan accounts, special fixed deposit schemes, more than 27 crore MUDRA loans to women, or Mission Poshan, each of these programs introduced by the Modi government played a vital role in empowering women. The government data suggests that for the first time in India, 1,020 women per 1,000 men (NFHS-5) ratio was achieved, more than 3.03 crore women have been paid under PM Matru Vandana Yojana, 3.18 crore Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana accounts were opened and Over 27 crore MUDRA loans were given to women beneficiaries. Also, over one crore 72 lakh women got houses under the PM Awas-Gramin Yojana while over 70% PMAY homes are owned solely or jointly by women. The Modi government also launched Mission Poshan, an integrated nutrition support programme to address the challenges of malnutrition in children, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers through a strategic shift in nutrition content and delivery and by the creation of a convergent ecosystem to develop and promote practices that nurture health, wellness, and immunity. Indicating a big feat when it comes to health and hygiene, the government facilitated the distribution of over 27 crore sanitary pads priced Re. 1 through Jan Aushadhi Kendras and 3.94 crore free antenatal check-ups was conducted under PM Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan. It was during the Modi government's tenure that the paid maternity leave period was increased from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. The government data also showed that the Maternal Mortality Rate declined to 97 in 2018-20, during PM Modi's governance. "For the Modi government providing women with a life of dignity is a fundamental promise of governance. This promise manifests itself in the increased usage of LPG cylinders under the Ujjwala Yojana which has saved crores of women from chronic respiratory disorders through smoke-free kitchens. With the success of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, crores of women are now able to access toilets in their homes without any fear of safety or violation of dignity", the government has said. In the 9 years of the Modi government, women have grown from strength to strength. Their success can be seen in the significant increase in female police personnel, in the laurels won by sportswomen for the country, and in the enrolment of women in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths. The government has transformed women from being welfare targets to empowerment agents. "Women empowerment is crucial to India's growth. Days of seeing women as 'home makers' have gone, we have to see women as nation builders," PM Modi had said. A look at the economic upliftment aspect of women shows that the government schemes are gradually working in the right direction but more needs to be done. The government data showed that the MSME registration on the Udyam Portal has seen more than 2 lakh women-owned MSMEs registered during the special drives, indicating a 28% increase in registration of women-owned MSMEs in just 3 years. More than 45,000 DPIIT-recognised startups have at least one woman director. The Union Budget 2023-24, by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, introduced the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) for girls and women to celebrate Nari Shakti and its financial dignity - Samman. The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019 declares the pronouncement of instantaneous and irrevocable triple talaq by a Muslim husband as void and illegal. The ban on women going to Haj without a male companion has also been lifted. If the government manages to reach a consensus on the Women's Reservation Bill, it will be another feather in the cap of the Modi government. Many state governments have so far failed to establish a better healthcare infrastructure for women, especially in the rural areas and since the NDA government is known for its iron will to create a world-class infrastructure, the women of this country have a high hope from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. NEW DELHI: In a major development, the Allahabad High Court on Wednesday dismissed the Muslim side's plea challenging the maintainability of five Hindu women worshippers' suit filed in the Varanasi Court seeking the right to worship inside the Gyanvapi mosque in the holy city. The order was passed by a single-judge bench of Justice JJ Munir. The Allahabad High Court, after hearing the arguments, had reserved its decision on December 23, 2022. The Allahabad High Court's decision implies that the case related to the Gyanvapi Mosque will continue to be heard by the local Varanasi court. The Anjuman Intezamia Masjid (AIM) Committee and the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Waqf Board had petitioned the high court to dismiss the five Hindu women worshippers' suit, arguing that it is not maintainable under the Places of Worship Act of 1991 and the Central Waqf Act of 1995. They had challenged the decision of the District Judge of Varanasi, who had previously dismissed their objection to the suit. The civil suit in question was filed by Rakhi Singh and nine others, including five women, in the Varanasi court. They were seeking the regular worship of Shringar Gauri in the Gyanvapi mosque, a proposition that has led to significant controversy. On the orders of the Supreme Court, the hearing of this case was going on in the court of the District Judge of Varanasi. The case was transferred to the district judge's court in May last year. The Muslim side filed an objection in the court and appealed to dismiss the petition of women including Rakhi Singh. Reacting to the Allahabad High Court verdict, Vishnu Shankar Jain, the counsel for the Hindu side, called it a "historic" verdict. "The court clearly has said that Anjuman Intezamia Mosque Committee's petition is not maintainable and dismissed it," he said while speaking to news agency ANI. Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi, another lawyer representing the Hindu side called it a "big win" and welcomed the court's decision. "It is a big win for the Hindu side. We welcome the decision of the court to dismiss Order 7 Rule CPC plea filed by Anjuman Intazamia Mosque Committee which challenged the maintainability of the suit of five Hindu women worshippers seeking the right to worship inside Gyanvapi mosque," he said. This dispute has been in the courts since April 2021, when the Varanasi court directed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a comprehensive survey of the mosque complex. New Delhi: A major infiltration attempt to smuggle arms and drugs was thwarted by the Indian Army in which three people were arrested after a shootout near the border fence along the Line of Control in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency PTI quoted officials as saying."One Army soldier and one of the arrested infiltrators were injured in the firing at forward Karmara village in Gulpur sector in the early hours of the day," PTI quoted officials as saying. They said border troops detected suspicious movement and confronted the persons which resulted in a gunfight. "The area was immediately sealed off and three people, one of them with a bullet wound in his leg, were nabbed along with a haul of drugs and weapons, while an Army soldier was also hurt," the officials said. J&K | Three-four terrorists were intercepted by Indian Army and J&K Police on the Line of Control in the Poonch Sector while attempting to cross the fence. Three terrorists were apprehended and some weapons, war-like stores including one IED and Narco were recovered. One Indian pic.twitter.com/28IpTRcskz ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2023 The officials named the arrested smugglers as Mohd Farooq (26), who sustained a leg injury, Mohd Riaz (23) and Mohd Zubair (22), all residents of Karmara. Also Read: Migrant Worker Shot Dead By Terrorists In Jammu And Kashmir's Anantnag, Probe On They are suspected to have received the arms and drug shipment from across the border and were attempting to smuggle it into this side when they were stopped by the troops. The items recovered from the arrested smugglers included an AK rifle, two pistols, six grenades, an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) hidden inside a pressure cooker and 20 packets of presumed heroin. The officials said the search operation in the area is still underway when last reports came in. Ajmer: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday made a blistering attack on Congress, saying the main opposition party had only followed a policy of "misguiding and depriving" the poor, and noted that the nine years of BJP-led government have been dedicated to service to citizens and good governance. Addressing a public meeting in Ajmer, PM Modi said India's achievements today were being praised across the world and alleged that people suffered before 2014 during the rule of the Congress-led government. "Congress has cheated even the heroes. It is Congress that has been betraying our ex-servicemen in the name of 'One Rank One Pension'. The BJP government not only implemented 'One Rank One Pension' but also gave arrears to ex-servicemen," the Prime Minister said. "Before 2014, people of the country were protesting against corruption, terrorist attacks used to take place, the Congress government was afraid to build roads on the border, there was a superpower above the PM and the Congress government was functioning through remote control. However, you changed everything with your one vote in 2014. The entire world is talking about the development of India now," he added. The PM alleged that the Congress policy has been to "misguide the poor, make them suffer." "This 'guarantee habit' of Congress is not new, it is old. 50 years back, Congress gave the 'Garibi Hatao' guarantee to the country. This is the Congress party's biggest treachery with the poor. Congress' strategy has been to trick the poor. People of Rajasthan have suffered due to this," PM Modi said in Ajmer. Training his guns at the main opposition party, PM Modi said, "...What was the situation prior to 2014? People were on the streets against corruption, there used to be terrorist attacks in big cities, Congress Govt was scared of building roads at borders, crime against women was high, there was a superpower above the PM, Congress Govt was functioning through a remote control...there was darkness before the youth...Today, India is being praised across the world..." Shifting his focus on the vaccination drive in the country, PM Modi said, "...When there was Congress Govt, the vaccination coverage could reach only around 60%. At that time, 40 out of 100 women pregnant women and children could not receive life-saving vaccines. Had there been a Congress Govt (now), 100% vaccination coverage in the country would have taken 40 more years. Several generations would have passed by then. Can you imagine the number of poor women & children who would have died in the absence of life-saving vaccines?" The rally in Ajmer district was the first major programme of BJP's campaign to reach out to people to mark nine years in the government at the Centre. PM Modi visited Pushkar Before coming to Ajmer. "In our scriptures, Lord Brahma has been called the creator of the universe. With Lord Brahma's blessings, an era of new creation is going on in India. BJP-led NDA government in the Centre has completed nine years. These nine years have been dedicated to service to citizens, good governance and the welfare of the poor," PM Modi said. #WATCH | PM Modi offers prayers at Brahma temple in Rajasthan's Pushkar pic.twitter.com/zG3FVQjwmA May 31, 2023 This was PM Modi's sixth programme in Rajasthan in the last eight months. Rajasthan will go the polls later this year. Rasha Hasan drives a tuk-tuk on the street in Damascus, Syria, May 28, 2023. For Rasha Hasan, driving a tuk-tuk on Damascus streets was a way for her to make a living and support her three school-age children. The 46-year-old widow used to be a taxi driver owning a private car 12 years ago, until the civil war hit her residential neighborhood - the al-Tadamun neighborhood in Damascus and forced her family displaced.(Photo by Hummam Sheikh Ali/Xinhua) by Hummam Sheikh Ali DAMASCUS, May 31 (Xinhua) -- For Rasha Hasan, driving a tuk-tuk on Damascus streets was a way for her to make a living and support her three school-age children. The 46-year-old widow used to be a taxi driver owning a private car 12 years ago, until the civil war hit her residential neighborhood - the al-Tadamun neighborhood in Damascus and forced her family displaced. Her car got stolen and her house was set ablaze, a typical story shared by thousands of Syrians who've suffered from the burns of the years-long crushing war. The death of her husband during the war made Hasan's life more challenging. What's worse, the scarcity and high price of fuel due to war and economic woes compounded the woman's suffering when she took up her old job as a taxi driver by renting a car. Flipping through pages on Facebook, Hasan one day bumped into an advertisement for electric tuk-tuks and figured that purchasing a tuk-tuk could be a more affordable option for her rather than renting a taxi. The tuk-tuk is similar to a three-wheeled open taxi outfitted with a cabin enough for at most three passengers. Always dressed in bright-colored funky-style clothing, Hasan can easily attract the attention of passers-by when weaving through traffic on the streets, earning her the nickname of "tuk-tuk lady." Speaking to Xinhua about her experience, Hasan prided herself on being a very skilled driver who can dodge holes and bumps smoothly. "I am the first woman to drive a tuk-tuk in Damascus. I have not yet seen another woman driving a tuk-tuk here," she said, recounting that some passengers were afraid to take her tuk-tuk at the beginning, fearing they "could fall into one of the many holes on the streets." In addition to holes in the drive, the limited battery capacity of the tuk-tuk is another challenge for Hasan. "I am limited to a three-hour work per day due to the battery capacity. I charge the tuk-tuk for four hours to ensure a three-hour drive. I keep working until the battery dies. Most days, people help push my tuk-tuk back home," she said. Hasan is now saving money to install a solar panel on the tuk-tuk so that the vehicle can be recharged while it is driven, enabling her to work longer. After safety was restored in the neighborhood, Hasan and her children moved back to their house but found themselves unable to afford to repair the damaged part. As summer comes, Hasan hopes her children who are attending music classes, could help support the family by working with some bands during the summer activities. New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is on a week long US trip on Wednesday on Tuesday said that 'Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and Tribals are feeling attacked in India'. Gandhi was answering a question from the 'Bay Area Muslim community' while peaking at an event in Santa Clara, California. The Congress leader said, " The way Muslims are feeling attacked, I can guarantee Sikhs, Christians, Dalits and Tribals are feeling the same. What is happening to Muslims in India today happened to Dalits in the 1980s". Taking a swipe at the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party government, Rahul said it is 'threatening' the people and 'misusing' the country's agencies. Gandhi accused the BJP and the RSS of dominating all the political instruments in India. He said he understood that the usual methods that were used in politics in the past were no longer effective before he began his Bharat Jodo Yatra. The BJP is intimidating people and abusing government agencies. The Bharat Jodo Yatra started because the BJP-RSS had control over all the instruments that we needed to reach out to the people, he said. Also Read: At 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' Event In US, Rahul Slams Centre For Trying To Stop 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' He said he decided to walk from the southern end of India to Srinagar because it had become quite hard to act politically. He said the yatra carried the spirit of love, respect and humility. He said all spiritual leaders including Guru Nanak Dev ji, Guru Basavanna ji, and Narayana Guru ji united the country in a similar way when one studies history. Gandhi said India is not what is being shown in the media which likes to push a political narrative that is far from reality, claiming that there is a 'huge distortion'. He said it was clear to him in the Yatra that the media likes to show these things because it helps the BJP. He said, Dont think that everything you see in the media is the truth. Also Read: At 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' Event In US, Rahul Slams Centre For Trying To Stop 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' He said India is not what the media shows. The media likes to show a specific narrative. It likes to support a political narrative that is not what is happening in India. The Congress leader arrived in San Francisco on Tuesday for a three-city US tour during which he will interact with the Indian diaspora and meet American lawmakers. Last week, Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda said Gandhi's visit is aimed at promoting shared values and a vision of 'real democracy'. New Delhi: In recent years UFO activities across the globe has increased significantly, even NASA , USA's Pentagon and other organizations all over world taking them seriously now. India has been seeing these Ariel phenomenon since a long time, some are hoax but some incidents are mysterious in nature. There are only few organizations in India who investigate these phenomenas, project Dimension X run by Detectives of Supernatural is one such program. Observation of dimension x As per Devraj Sanyal, Paranormal Investigator, Founder of Dimension X which is a part of Detectives of Supernatural. When I was a kid, I used to look up at night and wonder what are these billions of twinkling lights, my mom said these are stars like our Sun but they are way far away. Then I gradually knew about our solar systems, planets, moons etc. That day I thought if sun has nine planets in our solar system, how many planets are there in entire universe, the figure is much more than stars. And how many are like earth. And how many can possess biological life forms like us, in my view there are many. And another thing is why we always think life can be in form of biological body, it can be in gaseous form it can be in energy form or in any form we couldnt even imagine. The possibility is endless. This subject really fascinated me from childhood so I started researching it in my own way. What Do Researchers Think About Alien Presence? According to many researchers it may be possible that they are already visiting us for millions of years but our main stream prominent personnels is avoiding us to know the truth. This could be just a conspiracy theory or may be these researchers are right. I have many questions to our own human species, why we got advanced so fast where other species are still primitive in nature, why we are not compatible in earths atmosphere, why every civilization has language and most importantly why every corner of the world believes in GOD. Why we always look up to look for GOD. Is it in our genes? There are so many WHYS but there is NO answer to it. What Happened In New Mexico? In mid-1947 New Mexico , there was a report of weather balloon crash but those who saw the accident states that it was an Unidentified flying object (UFO) crash in the desert and nature of that craft was not at all of this planet. After the accident the crash area was highly secured and confidential, if it was a weather balloon why so many security? It also may be conspiracy theory but after the incident, we can see the huge leap of advancement in technology , inventions of nano technology, plasma, microchip, LCD and many more just came out , which could have taken 100 years now we have done it in few years, this is the most weird part. Many including Devraj Sanyal, believe it was done by reverse engineering, a method where scientists figure out from an existing technology. Devraj says ,all these may be imaginary theories but now I am talking about recent days, NASA have cut live video feed several times from international space station just whenever an mysterious object can be seen in camera. We call these mysterious objects moon pigeons. This is the weirdest thing ever happened in recent history. What Do Astronauts Have To Say About The Extra Terrestrial? According to many astronauts, they have seen many strange objects flying in outer space, one of them is Neil Armstrong, he even said Moon has alien bases. The Wow! Signal is another one the hard evidence of extra-terrestrial existence. It was a strong narrowband radio signal received on August 15, 1977, by Ohio State University's Big Ear radio telescope in the United States, then used to support the search for extra-terrestrial intelligence. The signal appeared to come from the constellation Sagittarius and bore the expected hallmarks of extra-terrestrial origin. Astronomer Jerry R. Ehman discovered the anomaly a few days later while reviewing the recorded data. He was so impressed by the result that he circled the reading on the computer printout and wrote the comment Wow! on its side, leading to the event's widely used name. Mysterious Crop Circles Twenty-six countries reported approximately 10,000 crop circles in the last third of the 20th century. Many of the formations appearing in that area are positioned near ancient monuments, such as Stonehenge. Crop Circles are geometric patterns that appear mysteriously in crop fields. The crop is not cut, but is usually laid flat and most often swirled into an attractive floor pattern which signifies some sort of massage or mathematical signal out this world. According to research, their formation involves vortices of electromagnetic fields and sonic energies. While the affected plants of these living mandalas remain unharmed, the subsequent growth patterns from these seeds show significant differences from those of seeds from unaffected plants in the same field. How they are created still remains a big question? Crop circles are scientifically proven to be manifestations of energy under intelligent guidance. There are such numerous evidences which positively supports that some intelligent life form have been visiting us for long long time. UFO Sightings In India UFO sightings depicted in India Pre-historic era when Pre-historic rock paintings were found at Charama, Kanker Chhattisgarh state depict human figures wearing suits similar to modern day space suits and drawings similar to flying saucers, each with a fan-like antenna and three legs. 1951 On 15 March, 10:20 a.m. in New Delhi, 25 members of a flying club saw a cigar-shaped object in the sky which was about one hundred feet long. The UFO hovered and then vanished from sight. 2008 On October 29, a fast moving object was spotted at 30 in the eastern horizon at Eastern Kolkata between 3:30 and 6:30 am and was filmed using a handycam. Its shape shifted from a sphere to a triangle and then to a straight line. The object emitted a bright light forming a halo and radiated a range of colours. It was spotted by many people and hundreds gathered along the E.M. Bypass to catch a glimpse of the UFO, triggering a frenzy. The video footage was released on a TV News channel and later shown to Dr. D P Duari, the director of MP Birla Planetarium, Kolkata, who found it to be "extremely interesting and strange". It was later approved by Dr D P Duari to be the planet Venus. 2013 Residents of Mogappiar, Chennai observed five specks of bright orange light moving from south to north around 8.55 pm on 20 June and was later reported on the local newspaper on 23 June. On 4 August, soldiers of Indian Army have observed unidentified flying objects at Lagan Kher Area, Demchock, Ladakh, India and it is reported that army troops have observed more than 100 UFO movements along Arunachal Pradesh border area during the previous seven months. 2014 A series of pictures of the sunset over the Rajajipuram area of Lucknow on 23 July claimed to show a UFO. A commercial pilot reportedly informed Mumbai Air Traffic Control room that she spotted a green and white UFO near Pune during the first week of October at a height of about 26,300 feet. A photograph published by the news media claimed to show a "nail shaped" UFO over Kochi in the southern Indian state of Kerala on 29 October 2015. A schoolboy claimed to have captured photographs of a UFO from his house rooftop in Shyam Nagar, a suburb of Kanpur, on 25 June, though the photos were most likely created with a photo editing smartphone application. In Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, a local resident claimed to have taken a photo of a large UFO. However, experts say that a rash of similar photos from other parts of the world depicting the appearance of a UFO similar to the one in the movie Independence Day were most likely "created using digital editing software or even a mobile phone app, as some on the market allow UFOs to be blended into pictures". Among all I myself found a person who claims to see some strange activity in sky, Suvojyoti Roy Chowdhuri resides in Behala of Kolkata saw three huge light balls with unusual movement just before a thunderstorm in mid of August 2018 He saw these balls of light three times but just before thunderstorms he claims. Team DIMENSION X Investigation On UFO Sightings In 2020 Devraj Sanyal, Suvojyoti Roy Chowdhuri, Ayush Majumdar and Debadarshi Roy created a team named Dimension X which is Indias one and only team who is researching and investigating UFO sightings and will find evidences from mythology and history which indicates Alien human contact in past. On 1st April 2022, a college girl Arzu Sahani, shared a video on social media. The video was like - small 4 to 5 cluster glowing ball like figure was circling around in the sky. So she thought it to be an unusual event so she captured it. First of all Ayush Mazumdar of Dimension X found that footage interesting enough and went to his Miss Sahani's place to look for answers. People were claiming that it must be a ray of lights from any of the wedding programs. But we were clear that it wasn't. All the news channels were busy with this news and were looking for answers so many of them contacted some scientists regarding this issue. But all of them just ignore the fact and pressurize the fact that it must be an environmental problem. But Ayush then investigated that place and talked with some of the neighbours regarding any marriage ceremony that took place on that day and that particular time. So each and every one told me that no ceremony took place nearby on that day. So Ayush got pretty sure about that now. On 2nd April 2022, the news spread like a wild fire. Every news channel was claiming that it whether it was a real UFO or not? So then, Team Dimension X includes- (Devraj Sanyal, Ishita Das Sanyal, Suvojyoti Roy Chowdhury, Ayush Majumder, and Debadarshi Roy) again went to her place for further investigation. We carried 3 high beam spot lights with us to look for the fact that whether it was a ray of lights or something different that people aren't aware of. So we carried on the process and threw 3 Spotlights straight in the sky as the evening was cloudy. The thing which made up our mind that it was not a spotlight was that - every spotlight has its own path, so the light flows on a particular path. But the video she captured we cannot see any paths through which the light will travel. On the next day after surfing the internet we found out the same kind of incidents in the Chino Hills of California, London, Wisconsin and many other places . Now this can't be a co-incident that the same incidents took place just like a months in between. Team Dimension X is still investigating the case and is looking for an answer. New Delhi: Consumer electronics manufacturer iQOO is looking for gaming enthusiasts who will work with the company as its Chief Gaming Officer (CGO). The CGO for iQOO would receive a salary of Rs 10 lakh over the course of six months. iQoo's latest offer is available for young gamers under the age of 25. The company has said that selected applicants will work with iQOO to develop the greatest mobile gaming and eSports experiences. WHo Can Apply For iQoo CGO Contest? Any person who falls in the age category of 18-25 can apply The person should be an avid gamer The person should be based in India How to apply for iQoo CGO Contest? Open iQoo official website Fill out all the details asked in the form Click on the submit button Take a screenshot of the registration for furhter reference Registration And Deadline For iQoo CGO Contest If you are a gaming enthusiast under the age of 25 and are interested in it, you can apply by visiting iQOO's official website or through their Instagram handle. The registration process has started from May 30, 2023 and will continue till June 11, 2023. iQoo CGO Contest Winner Selection Process iQoo says that the selection of the winner will be carried out by a jury and iQoo's leadership team. After 4 elimination rounds candidates will be shortlisted The company says that this is not a permanent or a full time job. Hence if you are already associated with a company and you still want to apply for the CGO contest, you could do so if your company allows it. New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday addressed the Indian diaspora in the US and slammed the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre for trying to stop his 'Bharat Jodo Yatra'. Speaking at the 'Mohabbat Ki Dukaan' event in San Francisco, he said that the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra', which began from Kanyakumari on September 7 last year and passed through 12 states before culminating in Jammu and Kashmir in January, carried the 'spirit of affection, respect and humility'. The former Congress president said that before starting his foot march, he realised that the normal tools that have historically been used in politics were 'not working anymore'. He also alleged that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is 'threatening' people and 'misusing' government agencies. "The Bharat Jodo Yatra started because all the instruments that we needed to connect with the people were controlled by the BJP-RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh)," Rahul Gandhi, who is on a week-long touto the US, said. If one studies history, it can be seen that all spiritual leaders, including Guru Nanak Dev, Guru Basavanna and Narayana Guru, united the nation in a similar way, he added. The Congress leader also attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said he thinks that 'he knows everything'. "I think if you sat Modi Ji down next to God, Modi Ji will start explaining to God how Universe works," he said. Gandhi said India is not what is being shown in the media which likes to promote a political narrative that is far from reality, asserting that there is a 'huge distortion'. He also thanked the Indian diaspora for 'holding up the Tricolour' in the US and showing Americans what it means to be an Indian. Rahul Gandhi is on a three-city US tour Rahul Gandhi arrived in San Francisco on Tuesday for a three-city US tour during which he will also meet American lawmakers. He was received at the airport by Indian Overseas Congress chairperson Sam Pitroda and other members of the IOC. He is also scheduled to interact with students at the prestigious Stanford University and have meetings with think tanks in Washington DC. The 52-year-old is also likely to address Indian Americans and interact with Wall Street executives and university students during his week-long tour of the US. He is slated to conclude his trip with a public gathering in New York on June 4. The interaction would take place at the Javits Center in New York. BEIJING, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Jens Plotner, foreign and security policy advisor to the German chancellor, on Wednesday in Beijing. The two sides had in-depth communications on preparations for the seventh round of inter-governmental consultation between the two countries and exchanged views on international and regional issues of common concern. A Mexican official said that the U.S. government must be "honest" and "have clarity" in its immigration and asylum policies to facilitate the solution to the migration crisis. Produced by Xinhua Global Service This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a view of the "fifth-generation" houses in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Shao Zedong) This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a view of the "fifth-generation" houses in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows the roof made with tree branches of an obsolete "second-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) A relative in-law of Losang Zhamdu cleans the living room of her "third-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This aerial photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows the remains of a "first-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) A son and a grandson of Losang Zhamdu watch TV at their "fifth-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This aerial photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a "third-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) A grand daughter-in law-of Losang Zhamdu, looks out of the window of her "fifth-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) Losang Zhamdu tells the story of his life at his fourth residence, or one of the "third-generation" houses, in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) Losang Zhamdu basks at a meadow in front of his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows an interior view of an obsolete "second-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) Losang Zhamdu is pictured in front of his fourth residence, or one of the "third-generation" houses, in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This aerial photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a view of the "fifth-generation" houses in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) Sonam Cering, deputy head of Zhaxigang Township, shows the remains of a "first-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) Losang Zhamdu fetches water from the well near his "third-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) This aerial photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a "second-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) A grand daughter in law of Losang Zhamdu, airs her laundries at her "fifth-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) Losang Zhamdu poses for photos in front of his fourth residence, or one of the "third-generation" houses, in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a view of the "third-generation" houses in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village. "This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aids to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structure that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) NGARI, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Sitting in the sun outside his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, 84-year-old Losang Zhamdu told a story of the five homes he had lived in. "My mother and I lived together in a tent made with yak hair, all our possessions were a goat fur jacket and a worn-out Tibetan blanket," recalled Losang Zhamdu, then a serf, on his childhood, adding, "Was that tent my first home? I don't know, because everything in our hand belonged to the serf owners." In 1959, democratic reform was launched and feudal serfdom was finally abolished in Tibet. A million serfs and slaves were emancipated, and 20-year-old Losang Zhamdu was one of them. In the 1960s, with the help of his neighbors, Losang Zhamdu built his second home - a "two-bedroom" flat with stone and mud. Such houses are called "first-generation" ones in Demqog Village."This house is not very good. The roof leaked when it rained, and we even didn't have a stove for cooking. But it was much more comfortable if compared to our tent," Losang Zhamdu said of his second home. In 1990, Demqog was officially established as an administrative village, which came along with "second-generation" houses built with adobe. Through the joint efforts of his family, neighbors and border guards, Losang Zhamdu was able to move in his third home. In 2006, Losang Zhamdu celebrated the inauguration of his fourth home, also known as the "third-generation" house of Demqog Village - a house with bricks and concrete structure. "It's a comfortable house. I like it very much." Losang Zhamdu said the local government also helped to drill a well next to his home. In 2010, Shaanxi Province, which had been assisting Ngari, shifted its aid to the construction of new rural areas, and Gar County also kicked off a series of projects in Demqog. The village has launched a solar power station for regular electricity service, a village square, a fitness area, a reading room and other supporting facilities. A paved road was also built to connect the outer world. In 2012, Demqog Village ushered in its fourth-generation houses, two-story buildings of reinforced concrete structures that come with courtyards. In September 2019, a group of Demqog villagers including the Losang Zhamdu family held a move-in ceremony for their "fifth-generation" houses - two-story, fully functioning buildings each covering a construction area of more than 200 square meters with an exclusive courtyard. Before the peaceful liberation of Tibet, more than 90 percent of the people had no home of their own, and many serfs even had to live in sheds for livestock, with little clothing and food. By 2020, the per capita housing space of farmers and herdsmen in Tibet had reached 41.46 square meters. Losang Zhamdu basks at a meadow in front of his residence in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023.(Xinhua/Fei Maohua) Sonam Cering, deputy head of Zhaxigang Township, shows the remains of a "first-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This aerial photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows the remains of a "first-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) This aerial photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a "second-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows the roof made with tree branches of an obsolete "second-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows an interior view of an obsolete "second-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region.(Xinhua/Fei Maohua) A relative in-law of Losang Zhamdu cleans the living room of her "third-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This aerial photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a "third-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) Losang Zhamdu fetches water from the well near his "third-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) Losang Zhamdu tells the story of his life at his fourth residence, or one of the "third-generation" houses, in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) Losang Zhamdu poses for photos in front of his fourth residence, or one of the "third-generation" houses, in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a view of the "third-generation" houses in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) Losang Zhamdu is pictured in front of his fourth residence, or one of the "third-generation" houses, in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a view of the "fifth-generation" houses in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Shao Zedong) This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a view of the "fifth-generation" houses in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region.(Xinhua/Fei Maohua) A grand daughter in law of Losang Zhamdu, airs her laundries at her "fifth-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This aerial photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a view of the "fifth-generation" houses in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje) A son and a grandson of Losang Zhamdu watch TV at their "fifth-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023.(Xinhua/Fei Maohua) A grand daughter-in law-of Losang Zhamdu, looks out of the window of her "fifth-generation" house in Demqog Village, Zhaxigang Township, Gar County in Ngari Prefecture of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 28, 2023. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua) This aerial photo taken on May 24, 2023 shows a mangrove forest on Jinniu Island, Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Deng Hua) This aerial photo taken on May 24, 2023 shows people visiting a mangrove forest on Jinniu Island, Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Deng Hua) People take a rest under the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province, May 25, 2023. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liu Dawei) This aerial photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows a mangrove forest on Jinniu Island, Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Deng Hua) This photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows birds resting in the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This aerial photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows birds flying over the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows birds resting in the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This aerial panorama photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows a mangrove forest at the seaside in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows birds in the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liu Dawei) People visit a mangrove forest on Jinniu Island, Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province, on May 25, 2023. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liu Dawei) This aerial photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows a mangrove forest at the seaside in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) People enjoy themselves in the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province, May 25, 2023. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This aerial photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows birds resting in the mangrove forest near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liu Dawei) People enjoy their leisure time on a mangrove walkway near the sea in Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province, May 25, 2023. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) This aerial photo taken on May 25, 2023 shows a mangrove forest on Jinniu Island, Zhanjiang City, south China's Guangdong Province. The winding coastline of Zhanjiang City is dotted with mangroves, accounting for 33 percent of the country's total mangrove area. (Xinhua/Liang Xu) To meet the demand of building materials such as cement for infrastructure construction in countries along the Belt and Road, Conch Group signed an investment agreement with the Uzbek government in 2019 to build a factory there. In 2022, Qarshi Conch project in Uzbekistan went into operation. The project has created a lot of jobs for local people, bringing economic and social benefits to Uzbekistan. Meanwhile, Conch Group has introduced concept of green development to its overseas companies and factories to promote transformation and upgrading of industries to achieve the goal of "green and smart manufacturing", thus injecting a new "green" driving force into high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. During his annual leave back home in China recently, Xu Huaqiao, deputy director of Conch's Qarshi Company in Uzbekistan, has visited Conch Group's Baimashan Cement Plant in Wuhu, east China's Anhui. He was surprised to see the smart agricultural project in the plant. What has he discovered? And what are his plans for the future? Let's take a look. BEIJING, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, met with Jens Plotner, foreign and security policy advisor to the German chancellor, on Wednesday in Beijing. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said that as all-round strategic partners, China and Germany should not only steadily develop bilateral relations, but also contribute to jointly addressing global challenges. He said that in the face of increasing instability and uncertainties in the international situation, China and Germany should work together to make the seventh China-Germany inter-governmental consultation a success, and send a positive signal to Europe and the world. Plotner said the foundation of Germany-China relations is solid and Germany will continue to firmly pursue the one-China policy. "We are full of expectations for the upcoming round of inter-governmental consultation between the two countries and will work together to speed up the preparatory work," Plotner said. The two sides also exchanged views on Ukraine and other international and regional issues of common concern. KHARTOUM, May 31 (Xinhua) -- The Sudanese army delegation suspended on Wednesday its participation in ongoing negotiations with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the Saudi Arabian port city of Jeddah, a senior military source said. The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the suspension was not a withdrawal from the negotiations, but an expression of the army's rejection of the continued and repeated violations by the RSF of the short-term ceasefire agreement. The source also said that the RSF has not fulfilled its commitments to withdrawing from civilian areas, including hospitals and neighborhoods. The Sudanese army and the RSF agreed to extend a week-long ceasefire agreement by five days before it was due to expire on Monday. Meanwhile, eyewitnesses reported clashes on Wednesday morning in the Al-Mohandiseen district in Omdurman, west of the capital Khartoum. The army closed the Al-Fatihab bridge linking Khartoum and Omdurman, while warplanes were flying over the area. The RSF accused the Sudanese army in a statement on Wednesday of violating the truce, saying that "the army bombarded our positions in Khartoum." Sudan has been witnessing deadly armed clashes between the army and the RSF in the capital Khartoum and other areas since April 15. More than 800 people have been killed, and nearly 1.4 million people have been forced to leave their homes since the conflict began, with more than one million people internally displaced and about 345,000 people crossing into neighboring countries for safety, said the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in its latest report on Sunday. HARARE, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced August 23 for the country's next elections, setting a campaign season among political parties and aspiring candidates in motion. State news agency New Ziana reported Wednesday that Mnangagwa set June 21 as the date on which nomination courts would sit countrywide to accept applications by political parties and their candidates to participate in the polls. Mnangagwa had been due to announce the date on Monday but postponed doing so, with his spokesperson George Charamba saying he would do so in due course. More than 5.8 million people have registered to vote in the presidential, legislative and local authority elections, according to the news agency. The ruling ZANU PF party has already held primary elections to choose candidates for the elections, while the two major opposition parties, MDC-T and Citizens' Coalition for Change, have yet to present theirs to the electorate. YAOUNDE, May 31 (Xinhua) -- A constitutional referendum will be held in the Central African Republic (CAR) on July 30, according to a presidential decree. Campaigns for the referendum will kick off on July 15 and will end on July 28, and voting will unfold on July 30 from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., President Faustin-Archange Touadera Touadera said in his decree issued Tuesday night. "The opinion of my people is the most important element that will determine the future of our dear Central African Republic," he said on social media. "I have decided to submit to the referendum the draft of a new Constitution of CAR after having met with the president of the Constitutional Court and the president of the National Assembly." Earlier, in a televised address to the nation, Touadera said the referendum falls within the framework of "the deep reform of the State" that will promote "our values, allow our young democracy to be more dynamic," and improve the regular functioning of institutions "with greater emphasis on transparency and accountability." He said the main reforms in the new draft constitution will be made known in the coming days. A visitor views paintings of the Song Dynasty (960-1279) during the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) People visit the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) Visitors view paintings of the Song Dynasty (960-1279) during the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) People visit the "Reflection of the Golden Age" art exhibition at the China Cultural Centre in Singapore, May 28, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) ISLAMABAD, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan's Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi on Wednesday called for the use of innovations in defense technologies, said a statement from the Pakistan Navy. Addressing the 52nd convocation ceremony of the Pakistan Navy War College held in the capital city of Lahore of eastern Punjab province on Wednesday, the Navy chief highlighted the development of new technology and artificial intelligence. "The artificial intelligence required that traditional war tactics should be replaced by innovation," added the chief. Raising awareness about the maritime sector is a distinction of the Pakistan Navy War College, the chief said. People view light installations during a preview of the "i Light Singapore" light show at the Marina Bay area in Singapore, May 30, 2023. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows light installations exhibited during a preview of the "i Light Singapore" light show at the Marina Bay area in Singapore. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows light installations exhibited during a preview of the "i Light Singapore" light show at the Marina Bay area in Singapore. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua) BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, May 31 (Xinhua) -- A massive haul of 3,433 cartons and nine packets of cigarettes, as well as 228 bottles and 532 cans of alcohol, were seized by the Royal Customs and Excise Department, local media reported on Wednesday. According to the local daily Borneo Bulletin, the operation took place on May 24 targeting areas around the country's iconic Kampong Ayer (Water Village). In addition to the contraband, three vessels believed to be involved in smuggling activities were seized. According to Brunei laws, tobacco-producing and selling are strictly forbidden in the country and heavy duties are imposed on imported cigarettes and those who are convicted of tobacco smuggling will face huge fines or imprisonment. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, an Indonesian national who stockpiled more than 90 cartons of smuggled cigarettes at his residence was ordered to pay a fine of more than 70,000 Brunei dollars (51647 U.S. dollars) in fines after pleading guilty to the offense. The 56-year-old man will have to serve 16 months in jail in default of payment of the fine. (1 Brunei dollar equals about 0.74 U.S. dollars). HELSINKI, May 31 (Xinhua) -- The volume of Finland's gross domestic product (GDP) contracted by 0.4 percent in the first quarter of 2023 on a year-on-year (YoY) basis, Statistics Finland said on Wednesday. However, the country's economy grew by 0.2 percent from the previous quarter. The agency explained that the contraction of investments slowed down the growth of the national economy. In the first quarter, gross fixed capital formation, or investments, contracted by 3.0 percent from the previous quarter. As a result, both private and public investments decreased. Meanwhile, the volume of exports decreased by 0.1 percent from the previous quarter, and the volume of imports declined by 2.7 percent from the previous quarter. According to the Finland Chamber of Commerce, the development of the country's GDP at the beginning of this year was significantly weaker than expected. "The estimate of economic development was significantly revised downwards, which fits better with the general interpretation of the situation of the Finnish economy," Jukka Appelqvist, chief economist of the Finland Chamber of Commerce, said in a press release published on Wednesday. Appelqvist said that the economy's fundamentals would not favor rapid growth for the time being due to strong headwinds in the economy. Moreover, difficulties are ahead, as consumers' savings are starting to decline, the eurozone's industry is in trouble, and the outlook for construction investments remains gloomy. NICOSIA, May 31 (Xinhua) -- Cyprus' Energy Minister Giorgos Papanastasiou said on Wednesday that several energy companies are interested in building a natural gas pipeline between Israeli gas fields in the eastern Mediterranean and Cyprus. He said this was the conclusion of a two-day workshop held in Nicosia that involved many companies active in the pipeline construction and the energy exploration sectors in the eastern Mediterranean. Papanastasiou, who also holds the commerce and industry portfolio, told Cyprus' state CyBC radio that companies owning gas fields in Israel's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to the southeast of Cyprus expressed an interest in selling gas both for electricity production in Cyprus and for liquefaction and export to other countries. The minister said the interest expressed by the stakeholders is expected to be made official after the signing of an agreement between the two countries. Papanastasiou said that he will visit Israel on June 14 and 15 with the aim of concluding and signing a deal, which was agreed in principle during a visit to Jerusalem by President Nikos Christodoulides two weeks ago. He added that if things develop as planned, Israeli gas will reach Cyprus within 30 months. "Our objective is low-cost electricity," Papanastasiou said. Israel and Cyprus have both discovered extensive natural gas fields in their adjoining EEZs in the eastern Mediterranean. A gas pipeline from Israeli fields is envisaged to also link Cypriot gas fields in the area. The project to bring natural gas to Cyprus for local use and for liquefaction would in practice scrap a plan to build an expensive EastMed pipeline linking the eastern Mediterranean gas fields with Europe. "Instead of a direct pipeline link with Europe there will be a virtual pipeline through Cyprus connecting Israel and Europe," Papanastasiou said. The EastMed pipeline, an ambitious plan which originally had the support of Europe and the United States, has suffered several setbacks, especially after Washington withdrew its support to the project in 2022. BRATISLAVA, May 31 (Xinhua) -- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced here on Wednesday a new initiative for the Western Balkans, which she described as "a big step towards them." As part of the "new growth plan for the Western Balkans," four types of measures are envisaged: bringing the region closer to the European Union (EU) single market; deepening regional economic integration; accelerating fundamental reforms; and boosting pre-accession funds, von der Leyen said in a keynote speech at the three-day GLOBSEC's 2023 Bratislava Forum that ends on Wednesday. She noted that some reforms on the part of Western Balkan countries, such as in the judiciary, public procurement and the fight against corruption, will still need to be met in advance for the region to fully benefit from the fresh EU's initiative. The GLOBSEC's 2023 Bratislava Forum attracted more than 1,000 participants from 60 countries. ST. PETERSBURG, May 31 (Xinhua) -- The successful launch of Shenzhou-16 manned spacecraft, which delivered three taikonauts to the Tiangong space station, is a major achievement in Chinese and global aerospace industry, says a Russian expert. Aleksandr Zheleznyakov, a Russian historian of astronautics and member of the Tsiolkovsky Russian Academy of Cosmonautics, told Xinhua on Tuesday that the surprising and very meaningful launch brings more possibilities for human exploration of space and the universe. Even though humans have been in space for more than 60 years, the launch of any manned spacecraft remains a unique and significant event. "China demonstrates high level and rapid development in space industry, and China's achievements in this area are becoming more and more remarkable every year," said Zheleznyakov. He said China's research in aerospace areas such as Mars and lunar exploration also attract world's attention. Russia and China could carry out cooperation on multiple exploration projects regarding the moon, and various planets including Venus and Mars, he said. "Given China's technological capabilities and recent developments in space, it could be fruitful to have Chinese participation," said the expert. NEW YORK, May 30 (Xinhua) -- Crude oil futures prices tanked on Tuesday amid uncertainties over the upcoming meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its partners (OPEC+), as well as the fate of the U.S. debt ceiling deal in Congress. The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) for July delivery shed 3.21 U.S. dollars, or 4.42 percent, to settle at 69.46 dollars a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Brent crude for July delivery lost 3.41 dollars, or 4.43 percent, to settle at 73.54 dollars a barrel on the London ICE Futures Exchange. Though the White House and House Republicans have reached a deal on the U.S. debt ceiling, some lawmakers' opposition to it adds uncertainty to the outcome. "The excitement over the debt ceiling deal in principle is wearing off for the oil trade as there are some doubts that it will get the votes it needs," said Phil Flynn, senior analyst at The Price Futures Group. Moreover, investors have no clue on what would happen at the upcoming OPEC+ meeting on Jun. 4 due to conflicting signals from major players. WTI oil and Brent oil are under strong pressure as traders bet that OPEC+ will not provide additional support to oil markets at its upcoming meeting, noted Vladimir Zernov, analyst with market information supplier FX Empire. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the new Parliament building in New Delhi. Several opposition parties had boycotted the event demanding that the inauguration be done by the President. The RJD had also made a controversial tweet about the design of the new Parliament building. Meanwhile, TMC MP Jawahar Sircar and Congress leader Digvijay Singh said about the new Parliament building that its design has been copied from the old Parliament of the African country Somalia. Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Jawhar Sarkar tweeted that Modi's 'pet' architect from Gujarat has charged Rs 230 crore for imitating Somalia's old parliament. "Somalia has rejected its old Parliament, it is an inspiration for new India! Modi's pet architect from Gujarat who always gets Modi's mega contracts through competitive bidding" (in Ahmedabad, Varanasi, Delhi's Parliament + Central Vista) charged us Rs 230 crore for copying Somalia's design." Retweeting Sarkar's tweet, Congress MP Digvijaya Singh tagged PM Modi and wrote, "Can you believe that the Parliament building rejected by Somalia is the inspiration of our Prime Minister." Digvijay wrote, "Full numbers to Jawahar Sarkar. Can you believe that the Parliament building rejected by Somalia is an inspiration for our PM Modi? Tagging the PMC, the Congress leader has demanded that the copy cat recover Rs 230 crore from the architect. Earlier, RJD had also raised questions about its design. The RJD had tweeted comparing the new Parliament building to a coffin and asked what it was. However, later it was clarified by RJD that his tweet was misinterpreted. Through the tweet, the RJD had asked whether democracy is being locked in a coffin and its temple is being inaugurated. At the same time, the BJP reacted strongly to this tweet, saying that this tweet will prove to be the last nail in the coffin of your politics. Arvind Kejriwal to meet MK Stalin, Soren for support against Centre's ordinance Rahul Gandhi in US, Says PM Modi would start explaining to God how the universe works" Visakhapatnam to host Int'l Organic Mahotsav-2023 from June 2 Barcelona: Authorities on the island nation of Malta in Europe have refuted claims made a day earlier by a group of nongovernmental organisations regarding a migrant boat in distress. The Armed Forces of Malta informed The Associated Press via email on Tuesday that "no boat was sighted in the reported position" after numerous searches and verifications of the reported position. On Monday, four rescue organisations working in the central Mediterranean accused Maltese government officials of arranging the deportation of 500 people to eastern Libya, where they were later imprisoned, in violation of maritime law. Also Read: As more Syrians naturalise, the number of new German citizens rises to a 20-year high According to the NGO, the group of migrants, which included 55 children and pregnant women, had been making their way to Europe on a rusty iron fishing boat on May 23 when they reported that they were adrift and consuming water to Alarm Phone, a hotline for migrants in distress. The migrants were in international waters within Malta's search and rescue jurisdiction when they repeatedly shared their GPS location with Alarm Phone via satellite communication. Alarm Phone claims that despite repeatedly informing Maltese authorities of their location and dire situation, they never received word that a rescue effort had begun. Rescue aircraft and ships from humanitarian organisations also failed to find the vessel. On the morning of, Alarm Phone lost contact with the migrants. Also Read: The US asserts that Sweden should formally join NATO and that Turkey should purchase new F-16s. According to Alarm Phone, the migrants' relatives reported two days later that they had been sent back to Benghazi, Libya, and were now being held captive. 485 people were returned to Benghazi by a ship belonging to the so-called Libyan National Army, a force in the east of the country commanded by military commander Khalifa Haftar, according to the International Organisation for Migration and the UN Refugee Agency, who spoke to The Associated Press. Safa Msehli, an IOM spokesperson, confirmed that the migrants were taken to the Qanfouda detention facility but was unable to confirm whether they were the same individuals mentioned by Alarm Phone. Also Read: 'Very close' to finding children who have been missing in the Colombian Amazon Both UN organisations have repeatedly denounced the repatriation of migrants and refugees to Libya, arguing that the lawless country shouldn't be regarded as a secure location for disembarking as required by international law. Authorities in Malta also stated via email that they "have no jurisdiction over any autonomous actions conducted in international waters." KATHMANDU: Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the Prime Minister of Nepal on Wednesday, May 31, embarked on a 4-day official visit to India at the invitation of his Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. According to a statement from the Kathmandu Foreign Ministry, Dahal, also known as Prachanda, is being accompanied by his daughter Ganga Dahal and an official delegation that includes the foreign minister, the finance minister, the energy minister, the minister of physical infrastructure and transport, the chief secretary, secretaries, and other high-ranking government officials. Dev Raj Ghimire, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ganesh Timilsina, the Chairman of the National Assembly, and other key officials sent off the Prime Minister at the Tribhuvan International Airport's VVIP lounge. On June 3, the prime minister is expected to return to Kathmandu. Prachanda's first formal role since taking power in December of last year is this one. The development of transmission lines, the establishment of integrated checkpoints, and the trading of energy are only a few of the bilateral interests and issues that will be covered, according to Foreign Minister Saud. The encouragement of Indian investment in Nepal's energy and hydropower sector, trade and transportation, and aviation will also be discussed. Long-term energy trade with India is another subject that has received priority in Nepal. Nepal has also prioritised the issue of long-term energy trade with India. Bangladesh has already committed to acquiring 50 MegaWatt of electricity from Nepal right away. Preparations have been undertaken to discuss and resolve the issue of securing the airways between the heads of government of the two nations during the visit. On Thursday at 11 a.m., Prachanda and Modi will meet at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi. They will conduct a joint press conference following the meeting and take part in the signing of a few contracts and a memorandum of understanding. After completing the engagements in New Delhi, the Nepal Prime Minister will visit Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachanda, served as the Prime Minister of Nepal on two separate occasions. He first assumed office from 2008 to 2009 and then again from 2016 to 2017. Prachanda is a prominent figure in Nepali politics and played a significant role in the country's transition from a monarchy to a federal democratic republic. During his time as Prime Minister, Prachanda focused on addressing socio-economic issues and promoting inclusivity in Nepali society. He worked towards implementing the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which aimed to bring an end to the decade-long Maoist insurgency in Nepal. Prachanda's leadership was marked by efforts to strengthen ties with neighboring countries, particularly India and China. He advocated for a balanced foreign policy approach, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good relations with both countries for Nepal's economic and strategic interests. Nepal, India planning to Sign Deals during PM's visit Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal to embark on India - Blue economy, immigration, and youth mental health and well-being on the agenda - HALIFAX, NS, May 29, 2023 /CNW/ - His Excellency Guni Th. Johannesson, President of Iceland and First Lady, Eliza Reid are scheduled to visit Halifax on May 30 - 31 for an official visit. Iceland - Coat of Arms (CNW Group/Embassy of Iceland) During this visit, President Johannesson will meet with top officials, business stakeholders, public and private sector leaders, and members of the community to discuss key issues and initiatives, including a roundtable discussion about the Blue Economy. "Nova Scotia and Iceland share a close connection to the ocean, a passion for innovation and a dedication to building opportunities for our people," said the Honourable Tim Houston, Premier of Nova Scotia. "We're pleased to welcome Iceland's President and First Lady during their visit to Canada as we explore the ways we can work together to secure our future in a diverse and competitive world." President Johannesson will also have a conversation with the province's Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration, to discuss how immigration and emigration has and continues to shape Iceland and Canada. The interwoven histories of the two countries will also be part of the agenda. "Nova Scotia is pleased to welcome His Excellency to the province. We look forward to celebrating the historic friendship between Iceland and Canada, which spans more than 1,000 years. We also look to the future with hope as we consider how this relationship will continue to grow and evolve in the 21st century," said His Honour The Honourable Arthur J. LeBlanc, ONS, KC, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia. Times are indicated in Atlantic Daylight Saving Time (ADT). Tuesday, May 30, 2023 - Halifax, Nova Scotia 11:30am - 12 Noon Event: Official meeting with the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia. Venue: Government House Summary: The President and First Lady will meet the Hon. Arthur J. LeBlanc, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia. Official photograph and gift exchange meeting will take place in the Drawing Room of the Government House. CLOSED TO MEDIA 12:00 Noon - 1:45pm Event: International Women's Forum (Atlantic) luncheon Venue: Province House Summary: First Lady of Iceland Eliza Reid will join female Nova Scotian business leaders for a conversation on women's entrepreneurship and approaches to ensuring that more women assume positions of influence and leadership in corporate settings in the future. Moderating this conversation will be Ms. Christine Pound, an IWF member and Icelands Honorary Consul in Halifax. CLOSED TO MEDIA 12:00 Noon - 1:30 pm Event: Business luncheon with Nova Scotian business community Venue: Stewart McKelvey, 1741 Lower Water St, Suite 600 Summary: This working lunch event, to be attended by President Guni Th. Johannesson, will bring together business leaders from leading Nova Scotian and Icelandic businesses and industry associations with ties to the blue economy, renewable energy and cleantech, financial services, and more. It will be an opportunity to build new relationships, highlight innovative services and technologies, and identify opportunities for collaboration and investment in both jurisdictions. OPEN TO MEDIA 2:00pm - 3:30pm Event: Roundtable discussion about the Blue Economy Venue: Centre for Ocean Ventures & Entrepreneurship (COVE) Summary: Iceland's President Guni Th. Johannesson will join Icelandic and Nova Scotian seatech companies and research organizations for a rich roundtable discussion and presentations on technological innovation and opportunities for collaboration in this industry. Local participants will include, but not be limited to senior representatives from COVE, Acadian Seaplants, Clearwater Seafoods, Cooke Inc., and Innovasea. Icelandic companies Marel and Kerecis will also deliver presentations. OPEN TO MEDIA 2:00pm - 3:30 pm Event: Roundtable discussion about improving mental well being among youth and mitigating substance abuse Venue: Laing House w NS Health, Centre for Mental Health and Addictions, etc. Summary: First Lady, Eliza Reid, and the Chief Analytics and Advisory Officer of Icelands Planet Youth will join leading stakeholders from Nova Scotias health services sector to share insights from each other's jurisdictions on common challenges and innovative approaches to improving youth health, ensuring their mental well-being, and preventing addiction. Participants will share insights into the "Icelandic prevention model" and other approaches practiced by Nova Scotian and Icelandic authorities and community organizations to mitigate substance abuse. CLOSED TO MEDIA 4:00pm - 6:30pm Event: "New Iceland: Causes, Challenges and Collective Memory." (4:15pm - 5pm) Venue: Pier 21 Exhibit Hall Summary: During this evening event at the historic Pier 21, a gateway to Canada for so many, the President of Iceland will deliver remarks entitled, "New Iceland: Causes, Challenges and Collective Memory." His address will cover the reasons behind the mass emigration from Iceland to Canada and the United States in the late 19th century, the aspirations of the people who left their homeland, and the challenges, successes and failures that awaited. He will also discuss how this part of Iceland's history has been narrated and described from the beginning to the present day. These remarks will be delivered prior to a conversation with Nova Scotia's Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration (Hon. Jill Balser), moderated by Pier 21 CEO Marie Chapman. OPEN TO MEDIA Event: Networking Mixer (5:00pm - 6:30pm) Venue: Pier 21, Larger Hall Summary: This networking session will invite up to 100 people, and is being sponsored by Business Iceland. The goal is to offer the community an opportunity to mingle and learn more about Icelandic businesses. OPEN TO MEDIA Notes for media To confirm attendance media must RSVP in advance via icelandincanada@finnpartners.com. Media are asked to arrive 30 minutes before the event's start time. Photos taken by the official photographer will be made available upon request via icelandincanada@finnpartners.com. Related links: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/May2023/28/c9940.html Follow the President of Iceland on Facebook and Twitter. SOURCE Embassy of Iceland Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/May2023/29/c4762.html Muralidharan joins Xtend with a vision for increased transparency and empowering marketers SINGAPORE, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Xtend, the provider of futuristic marketing technologies, is pleased to announce the appointment of Muralidharan as its new Chief Commercial Officer, effective immediately. Murali, an industry veteran with over a decade of experience in digital marketing and programmatic strategy, will be based in Singapore and oversee the commercial aspects of the company. Murali joins Xtend from Shopee, where he held the position of Head of Partnerships and Programmatic. In this role, he successfully established a centralized programmatic function for the company, built a highly skilled group of professionals, and managed digital marketing budgets across regional and local online marketing initiatives. Murali's expertise in driving operational excellence and managing cross-functional collaborations is expected to bring significant value to Xtend's operations. Karam Malhotra, Chief Executive Officer of Xtend, said, "We are thrilled to welcome Muralidharan to our organization. His proven track record in the industry and vast experience in mobile marketing, e-commerce, and advertising make him the perfect fit for our Chief Commercial Officer role. With Murali on board, we are confident that Xtend will continue to deliver innovative solutions that enable brands to effectively reach, convert, and re-engage their users." "I am excited to join Xtend and I believe in empowering marketers with the right tools and insights to plan and foresee what's expected based on data and historical trends. Our unique combination of programmatic supply, AI-driven data/creative, and access to SHOPit's first look inventory sets us apart from other retargeting partners. As a marketeer myself I understand the value of transparency and having real-time access to trends and insights, and this is what we will be focusing on in the near term. I'm looking forward to working closely with our clients to understand their needs and continue building a platform that adds value and drives performance." Says Muralidharan, Chief Commercial Officer at Xtend. Xtend's AI-first retargeting engine and innovative marketing solutions have garnered significant attention from global ecommerce partners such as Tokopedia and Lazada. The Xtend allows for more accurate prediction of user behaviour, anticipating their next engagement with a brand. Xtend also offers a platform-agnostic plug and play solution such as SHOPit to create a more native environment for users to interact with ecommerce offers outside their core platforms. Murali's appointment comes at an exciting time for Xtend as the company expands its reach and continues to revolutionize the marketing technology landscape. As the new Chief Commercial Officer, Murali will play a crucial role in driving Xtend's growth and success in the coming years. About Xtend Xtend is a futuristic marketing technology company that has built a world-class AI first retargeting engine, that helps businesses drive more effective mobile marketing strategies leveraging the power of 'retargeting'. Xtend is headquartered in Singapore and its dynamic team of over 50 is based around the globe. Xtend currently supports platforms like Tokopedia, Lazada, and more to monetise their underutilised assets in an effective and cost-efficient manner. For more information please contact http://xtend.com/ (WIP) Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/muralidharan-appointed-as-chief-commercial-officer-at-xtend-301837317.html SOURCE Xtend Description Are Mothers Day and Fathers Day just another day for you now that your parent or child is no longer with you physically? Perhaps you have lost a parent-substitute that was a part of your life and had an influence on who you are today. Perhaps you are the caregiver to a child grieving the loss of a parent and are looking for ways to help them maintain those continuing bonds. Maybe this day is challenging or triggering to get through due to your grief. Maybe it has been difficult to find a meaningful way to honor and remember your loved one every day, but especially on these sensitive holidays. Lisa Strahs-Lorenc, whose 2 mothers, 1 father, and husband, father to her children, are no longer alive, will facilitate an interactive workshop on how to keep these holidays meaningful and significant in our lives. In this workshop she will guide participants through answering the question: How can we honor, memorialize and pass on parenthood figures that contributed to who we are today? This workshop is for those grieving the loss of a parent, parents grieving the loss of a child, and those supporting children who have lost a parent. Lisa has written 2 support books to honor her husbands life and contribute to research to eventually find a cure for a deadly form of cancer. She also co-hosts a YouTube channel on end-of-life issues and bereavement. Register to join her in this poignant and very personal workshop on Wednesday, May 31 from 7-8 pm. Alpine sporting director Alan Permane has gone out on a limb ahead of next weekend's Spanish Grand Prix, to claim that the Enstone squad will perform better than Mercedes in Barcelona in the wake of its strong weekend in Monaco. . Esteban Ocon was in the fight for pole position in Saturday's thrilling shootout in the Principality, but ultimately qualified fourth behind Max Verstappen, Fernando Alonso and Charles Leclerc. However, a flawless performance by the Frenchman in challenging conditions coupled with impeccable execution by his team delivered a well-deserved P3 podium to the pair on Sunday, while Pierre Gasly added to Alpine's haul of points with a seventh-place finish. Permane was particularly satisfied with the impact of Alpine's latest updates in Monaco, some of which were circuit specific. But the Briton sees no reason why the team's A523 can't challenge Mercedes and perhaps Ferrari in next weekend's Spanish Grand Prix. "I don't think this is a Monaco special car, it is just the upgrades we put on for Imola and also for here... the car is working well," commented Permane after last weekend's impressive display. "I fully expect to be in front of Mercedes and with Ferrari at the next race. Max is too far away, and when Checo is on his game, he will be as well. "Fernando is going to be very difficult but I don't see why we can't race with Ferrari and Mercedes, which we have done [in Monaco] and as we did do in Miami as well. "They were quicker than us ultimately, but we were in a race with them. That is where we are aiming for." Permane revealed that Alpine will implement another update on its car at the Circuit de Catalunya where the team expects to gain a better understanding of its A523's performance. "Monaco is obviously an outlier of a track and we are happy to have done well," he added. "We are expecting to do well in Barcelona and it will give us a much better understanding of the car. "We have got another little upgrade coming there, as we will have most tracks, so that will go on and we will be able to measure a bit more accurately where that is." Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter Luxury cruise line Silversea just announced a 2026 around-the-world voyage. Fiippo Vinardi/Courtesy of Silversea It's hard to believe we're already looking at trips in 2026, but this newly announced around-the-world adventure is worth planning ahead for. Luxury cruise line Silversea just announced a 140-day world cruise to 70 destinations across 37 countries, the brand's most wide-ranging voyage yet. The 4.5-month cruise called "The Curious and the Sea" begins in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on January 6, 2026. It sails down the coast of Central America to the Panama Canal, which it crosses, then makes a few stops in South America, including Lima, Peru. From there, it begins its 28-day immersion in the Pacific Islands. Easter Island is, of course, on the itinerary, followed by French Polynesia (both the Society Islands, where you'll stop at Bora Bora, and the Marquesas), Tonga, New Caledonia, the Australian territory of Norfolk Island, the Cook Islands, and Fiji. Fiippo Vinardi/Courtesy of Silversea Next up is a stop in New Zealand before a semi-circumnavigation of Australia, which starts in Tasmania, sails along the southern coast, then across the entirety of Western Australia. In Southeast Asia, the ship will call in Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. There will also be multiple stops in Sri Lanka and India. (From Mumbai, there's even an overland program that will take you into Uzbekistan; other overland destinations include Luxor, Egypt, and the Balkans in Europe.) In the last month of the cruise, travelers will sail in the Middle East, through the Suez Canal, and around the Mediterranean, including stops in North Africa. The voyage concludes in Lisbon. Fiippo Vinardi/Courtesy of Silversea "For this World Cruise, we took inspiration from historys most pioneering explorers, each of whom has sailed to the end of the earth driven by curiosity and a thirst for discovery," Barbara Muckermann, president and CEO of Silversea Cruises, said in a statement sent to Travel + Leisure. "Appealing to the curious traveler within, we are inviting our guests to experience our planets beauty with new eyes, while celebrating the rich history of navigation." Fiippo Vinardi/Courtesy of Silversea Guests will sail on Silversea's Silver Dawn, a 596-passenger ship that launched in 2022. There are eight dining options on board, as well as the grand Otium spa. The voyage is all-inclusive and that means business-class airfare, butler service, laundry, and Wi-Fi. Rates start from $76,900 per person; learn more at silversea.com. For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Travel & Leisure. In this article, we are going to discuss the 15 most suicidal states in America. You can skip our detailed analysis of global suicide statistics, suicide rates in the U.S., financial cost of suicide and biotech companies working to treat mental heath issues and go directly to 5 Most Suicidal States in America. Every year, over 703,000 people take their own lives, according to figures from the World Health Organization. Suicide has been reported to be the fourth leading cause of death among 15-29 year olds, with ingestion of pesticides, hanging and firearms being the most common methods. Around 77% of global suicides occur in low- and middle- income countries, with Lesotho on top of the list with a staggering suicide mortality rate of 72.4. The only Western nation with an exceptionally high suicide rate is Belgium, which ranks 11th in the world, with a suicide mortality rate of 18.3. However, its also important to keep in mind that Belgium has some of the most liberal laws on doctor-assisted suicide in the world. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide rates in the U.S. increased approximately 36% from 2000-2021, with suicide being the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S. in 2021. With a national suicide mortality rate of 14.04, a total of 48,183 American died by suicide during the year, equaling to about one death every 11 minutes. The most common method of suicide was firearms, accounting for 54.64% of all suicide deaths in the country. One important factor that some of the most suicidal states in America have in common is less-restrictive gun laws. Suicides have also had a heavy financial toll on the American society. According to CDC, in 2020, suicide and non-fatal self harm cost the nation over $500 billion in medical costs, work loss costs, value of statistical life and quality of life costs, with the national per capita cost of self-injury mortality at $3,413. Mental health issues are the major cause for suicides worldwide. A report by the International Association for Suicide Prevention has revealed that an individual suffering from depression is 20 times more likely to die by suicide than someone without the disorder. According to an estimate by the National Institute of Mental Health, more than one in five adults in the U.S. live with mental illness, 57.8 million in 2021. Conditions can range from mild states, like depression and anxiety, to more severe conditions like dementia, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. A biotech company working to treat mental health conditions is Atai Life Sciences N.V. (NASDAQ:ATAI). With its extensive research and innovative methods of treatment, such as the use of Psilocybin and Ketamine, Atai Life Sciences N.V. (NASDAQ:ATAI) is trying to flip the narrative that such drugs are only meant for hippies and Woodstock. After seeing a close friend suffer from mental health issues and then self-treating successfully with psychedelics, Florian Brand, the founder of Atai Life Sciences N.V. (NASDAQ:ATAI), realized that patients across the world were under-served. Sage Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:SAGE) is another biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapies for mental health disorders. Sage Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:SAGE) is working to treat major depressive disorders, including postpartum depression. In collaboration with Biogen Inc. (NASDAQ:BIIB), the innovative Sage Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:SAGE) is working on developing a drug known as Zuranolone. If approved, the drug would be the first of its kind to treat PPD. Over the years, several major companies have realized the importance of mental health benefits and have taken initiatives aimed at employee well-being. Barclays PLC (NYSE:BCS) uses employee stories to strengthen its community and make workers feel like they arent alone in their mental health struggles. Through their This is Me campaign, disclosure rates for mental health issues at Barclays PLC (NYSE:BCS) have improved. Barclays PLC (NYSE:BCS) is also providing mental health services to its customers through its mobile app. Suicide is preventable and everyone has a role to play to save lives and help create healthy communities, both mentally and physically. To help states design their strategies for suicide prevention, CDC has developed the Suicide Prevention Resource for Action, which provides information on the best available evidence for suicide prevention. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a certified listener, please call or text 988. That said, here is a list of the 15 Most Suicidal States in America. 15 Most Suicidal Sates in America Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com Methodology: For this article, we have referred to reliable data from the National Center for Health Statistics of the CDC. While discussing the most suicidal states in America, it is important to keep in mind that Suicide Mortality Rate refers to the number of deaths by suicide per 100,000 total population. So even if some states have a high number of suicides in a year, they can still have a lower suicide mortality rate because of their high population. For example, the state of Texas had the highest number of deaths by suicide in 2021, a total of 4,193, but it had a relatively lower suicide mortality rate because of its high population of 29.53 million in 2021. 15. Oregon Suicide Mortality Rate in 2021: 19.5 According to Oregon Suicide Prevention, suicide is the second leading cause of death among 10-24 year olds in Oregon. Suicide rates in the state have been higher than U.S rates over the past 10 years and rates of youth suicide have been rising since 2011. The suicide mortality rate in Oregon increased by 6.5% from 2020-2021, when it was 18.3, which is a cause for alarm in the Beaver State. A total number of 889 people died by suicide in Oregon in 2021. 14. Utah Suicide Mortality Rate in 2021: 20.1 Utah made a progress of 3.3% in decreasing its suicide mortality rate from 2020, when it stood at 20.8. The total number of deaths by suicide in Utah in 2021 amounted to 643. The University of Utah has revealed that suicide is the leading cause of death among one of Utahs youngest groups, teens aged 15-19. An unrelenting stigma and limited access to mental health care has been linked to the high suicide rate in the state, where some victims were as young as nine. In 1999, 12 Utah teens committed suicide and by 2019, the number had unfortunately more than tripled to 42. 13. Vermont Suicide Mortality Rate in 2021: 20.3 Vermont has become the first state in the country to change its medically assisted suicide law to allow terminally ill people from out of state to take advantage of it and end their lives (euthanasia). Vermont is one of the 10 states to allow medically assisted suicide. The state has seen a startling rise of 12.1% in its suicide mortality rate since the previous year, when it was 18.2. To mitigate this alarming situation, Vermont has also recently launched a suicide awareness project, called Facing Suicide. Through data and firsthand accounts, the campaign aims to clear up misconceptions about suicide. A total of 142 people died by suicide in the Green Mountain State in 2021. 12. Idaho Suicide Mortality Rate in 2021: 20.5 Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death for people aged 10-44 and eighth leading cause overall in the state. According to federal guidelines, 70.18% of communities did not have enough mental health providers to serve residents in 2021 and the leading method of suicide was firearms. Idaho News has reported that the fall of 2021 was especially horrifying for the state, when within the first two and a half months of the school year, there were 6 suicide losses in the Nampa School District. However, the state seems to be making significant progress because the suicide mortality rate in Idaho has decreased by over 10.7% since 2020, when it was the fifth most suicidal state in America. 11. Arkansas Suicide Mortality Rate in 2021: 20.6 A total of 618 people died by suicide in Arkansas in 2021, 35 more than the previous year and the state saw an increase of 8.4% in its suicide mortality rate since 2021. Suicide is the eleventh leading cause of death in Arkansas and the second leading cause for people aged 24-34. 69.77% of communities did not have enough mental health providers to serve residents in 2021, according to federal guidelines. The impact of suicide in Arkansas is felt even harder in rural areas, where resources for prevention, identification and treatment are scarce. A strategy to address this issue could be treatment via telehealth. 10. West Virginia Suicide Mortality Rate in 2021: 20.6 West Virginia was the tenth most suicidal state in America also in the year 2020, but with a 6.2% lower suicide mortality rate of 19.4. According to the University of West Virginia, at the core of the states economy, coal jobs and other jobs in the extraction and construction industries are extremely hazardous. People working in such industries are more prone to injuries and hence, are also more vulnerable to drug abuse. West Virginia exhibited the largest per capita cost of suicide in the country, at $6,534 per person. 9. North Dakota Suicide Mortality Rate in 2021: 20.8 North Dakota saw an increase of 14.3% in its death rate since the previous year, when 135 people lost their lives to self-harm, compared to 156 in 2021. To help reverse this disturbing trend, lawmakers in the state are eyeing a 30-cent tax on all phone lines and landlines to fund a crisis hotline. 8. Nevada Suicide Mortality Rate in 2021: 21.5 Suicide is the leading cause of death for people aged 12-19 in Nevada, where 64.6% of the communities do not have access to public mental health providers. A total of 695 people died by suicide in Nevada in 2021 and military veterans comprised an estimated 20% of Nevadan suicides. 7. Oklahoma Suicide Mortality Rate in 2021: 22.1 Oklahoma saw an increase of 0.9% in its suicide mortality rate since 2020, when it was at 21.9. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people aged 10-34 in the state, where a total 977 people died by suicide in 2021. Suicides among Black Oklahomans doubled from 2016-2020. 6. Colorado Suicide Mortality Rate in 2021: 22.8 According to the Colorado Health Institute, many people who have died by suicide in Colorado were reported to have a current depressive mood or were diagnosed with a mental health problem like anxiety, depression or schizophrenia etc. However, less than a third were identified as currently receiving mental health care. Also, people of color in Colorado who committed suicide were less likely to have mental health treatment, compared to white Coloradans. A total of 1,384 people died by suicide in Colorado in 2021. Click to continue and see the 5 Most Suicidal States in America. Suggested Article: Disclosure: None. 15 Most Suicidal States in America is originally published on Insider Monkey. (Bloomberg) -- A moment of reckoning is approaching for Vedanta Resources Ltd. Indian billionaire Anil Agarwals miner has $2 billion of bonds due in 2024 a record annual bill for the company. While the group settled some debts on Wednesday, pricing data indicate investors have lingering concerns about repayments down the road. Most Read from Bloomberg Vedanta Resources is rated junk, but most of the groups businesses are profitable. At issue is the money the group companies regularly send to their London-based parent. While the commodities firm is pushing to reduce its debt, its reliance on dividends has caused cash reserves at the subsidiaries to dwindle. Whats happening now? The company on Wednesday said it has repaid all its maturing loans and bonds due in May and June, and eventually plans to slash gross debt to zero. That news follows hot on the heels of an announcement that Vedanta borrowed $250 million to refinance debt from Glencore International AG, its latest in a series of efforts to come up with funds. The miner also signed a five-year loan for about $850 million with JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Oaktree, according to people familiar with the matter. How much debt does Vedanta owe? Vedanta Resources has achieved more than 80% of its target to trim debt by $4 billion in three years. Gross debt stood at $6.4 billion at the end of May. Future deleveraging will depend on its operational performance and robust demand, mainly in India, the firm said. Why is the companys ability to repay debt in focus now? Funding debt payments may become more difficult for the company because multiple dividends over the past year have drawn down the cash reserves at its units. Vedanta Ltd. paid five dividends totaling about 377 billion rupees ($4.6 billion) in the financial year ended March, and Hindustan Zinc Ltd. awarded four dividends during the period. Cash reserves as of March at both of the subsidiaries fell to the lowest since at least June 2020, and Hindustan Zincs debt exceeded its cash for the first time. A drop in metals prices could also crimp profitability. Whats at stake for Vedanta? Agarwal aims to expand business to areas that are priorities for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The tycoons holding company Volcan Investments Ltd. tied up with Taiwans Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. to build a $19 billion semiconductor factory in Gujarat. But the Indian government is poised to deny crucial funding for the chip project, according to people familiar with the matter said. The venture has applied for such assistance, potentially worth billions of dollars, but hasnt met the criteria. How are the companys bonds faring? Out of its four outstanding dollar bonds, Vedanta Resources debt due in August 2024 and April 2026 are trading around or below 70 cents a dollar, a level thats generally considered distressed. Notes due in March 2025 are close to that level, signaling investor concerns. How did the company become such a big player? Agarwal, who was raised in the Indian state of Bihar, took over his fathers business making aluminum conductors in the 1970s, and then branched into trading scrap metal. He built Vedanta Ltd. through a series of ambitious acquisitions: In 2001, Agarwal bought a controlling stake in then government-owned Bharat Aluminium Co. and he followed that up with the purchase of another state-run firm, Hindustan Zinc. He successfully bid for iron ore producer Sesa Goa Ltd. in 2007 and for Cairn India. Vedanta Resources also owns copper and zinc operations in Africa. The company was the first in India to list in London back in 2003, before Agarwal took it private 15 years later when his Volcan Investments bought out minority investors as part of efforts to streamline the groups structure. How are his businesses faring now? Most of Agarwals businesses are profitable. His cash cow is Hindustan Zinc, which is backed by lead and zinc mines in Rajasthan, and contributed half of Vedanta Ltd.s profits in the quarter ended December. It also produces silver, an alternative to gold, of which India is the worlds second-biggest consumer. Oil and gas and aluminum combined make up for most of the rest of profits. Its aluminum unit is the largest producer of the metal in India. What measures has Agarwal taken to get greater access to cash? The crux of Agarwals problem is that each time a dividends are sent upstream, some of the funds go to outside investors. Vedanta Resources has tried to take Vedanta Ltd. private , but the plan was thwarted by minority shareholders. After Indias government stymied plans to offload about $3 billion of Vedantas global zinc assets, Agarwal is studying options including selling a minority stake in Vedanta Ltd., Bloomberg reported in late March, citing people familiar with the matter. A Bloomberg News profile of Anil Agarwal on how he is fighting to settle Vedantas debt Bloomberg Opinions Andy Mukherjee on how Adani isnt the only Indian tycoon in trouble Read about the hurdles thats putting Agarwal Chip Dream at Risk (Updates throughout with news of debt repayment) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. In this article, we look at the 25 Most Powerful Militaries in the World in 2023. To skip our detailed analysis and head directly to the worlds best militaries, go to the 10 Most Powerful Militaries in the World in 2023. A lot has happened over the last couple of years. Afghanistan has fallen to the Taliban. Azerbaijan has seized parts of the Nagorno-Karabakh region from Armenian control. Regular military skirmishes between China and India are reported in the bordering regions of Ladakh and Aksai Chin. Worst of all, Russias war on Ukraine has now gone past 450 days with no end in sight. These events have forced defense experts to dive deeper into the changing dynamics of modern warfare. Determinants of Military Strength Results in recent conflicts have shown that having a big military is not alone the most significant criteria to gauge a militarys strength. Manpower, logistics, fleet size and sophistication of tanks, aircrafts, fighter jets, and naval warships are just as important determinants. Other key factors include the professionalism of soldiers, training level of pilots, battle hardness of the armed forces, and arms manufacturing capabilities of the nation. Nuclear deterrence is another key competitive edge that some countries hold over others. This deterrence is based on the assumption that another country will avoid escalating a war to protect its own security. There are geographic advantages as well in the war theater. The United States has over 750 overseas military bases across more than 80 countries, which gives them the capability to conduct raids against enemy targets anywhere in the world. Defense Industry Currently, the U.S. alone accounts for nearly 40% of the defense spending worldwide. China, Russia, and countries in the Middle East are also heavily spending billions of dollars on military expenditure per annum. Global military spending increased from $1,139 billion in 2001 to $2,113 billion in 2021 a rise of nearly 50% in two decades. A report released by the Statista Research Department declared Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT) as the largest armament manufacturer in the world in 2021. The American company recorded revenue worth $65 billion from defense related sales that year. The top five leading armament manufacturers in the list were all American companies. Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT) was followed by Raytheon Technologies Corporation (NYSE:RTX) at second, with defense sales revenue of over $41 billion. The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA) took third spot with $35 billion in revenue. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) and General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD) were listed fourth and fifth, with defense revenues of $31.5 billion and $30.8 billion respectively. Aviation Industry Corporation of China was the largest armament manufacturer outside of the U.S., recording $42 billion in revenue. Military Technology Frontiers The U.S. continues to maintain air superiority over Russia and China due its fifth-generation fighter jets. These jets include major technologies developed during the 21st century, such as stealth which differentiates them from previous generations of jets. These new and advanced fighter jets come with special paint and other features which make it hard for the enemy radars to detect them. In 2005, the U.S. became the first country to launch a fifth-generation fighter jet, with Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT)s F-22 Raptor. The F-35B Lightening II was introduced in 2015 by Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT) to give the U.S. further edge in aerial battles. Russia, with Su-57, and China with its J-20 are other countries that have their own fifth-generation fighter jets. Japan, India, Turkey, and Sweden are currently undergoing initiatives to develop their own fifth-generation fighter jets. Another key military frontier in recent times has been hypersonic weapons which evade advanced radar systems and travel in the upper atmosphere at about 6,200 km per hour - more than five times the speed of sound. There are two types of hypersonic missiles - the hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) and hypersonic cruise missile (HCM). The former has the ability to leave Earth's atmosphere and then plunge back into it. On the other hand, the HCM travels at lightening speed at low levels and can also carry a nuclear warhead. Russia is leading the arms race in hypersonic military technology, and is believed to have at least 42 hypersonic missiles known as Kinzhal, as per the Ukrainian military. The U.S. is also pursuing development of hypersonic weapons. According to a report, the U.S. Department of Defense set aside $3.2 billion in 2021 in R&D financing for hypersonic weapons. China, the UK, and Israel have also conducted basic research on hypersonic military technology alongside other countries. Methodology We have considered a mix of quantitative and qualitative metrics to rank the best militaries in the world. The quantitative metrics include gross domestic product (GDP) and defense spending of countries in the year 2022, number of active military personnel in service, fleet size of combat tanks, nuclear warheads, number of fighter jets and naval vessels, active airfields, military satellites, overseas military bases, and cyber capability. Weights have been assigned to each metric and aggregated to determine the rank of strength for each military. Qualitatively, factors such as combat experience, and recognized professionalism and training of active military personnel have been considered. These are important factors because in the last decade or so, new players have emerged as top spenders on military expenditure, but their manpower lacks the required level of experience and expertise to handle sophisticated equipment. Some of the prominent metrics in our weightings have also been highlighted in the list. Statistics and analysis from a wide range of sources have been carefully studied for preparing this list. These include Janes, Global Firepower Index of 2023, Flight International, Belfar Center's National Cyber Security Index of 2022 (which measures countries' cyber capability on a scale of 1-100), The Power Atlas, and various media publications. 25 Most Powerful Militaries in the World in 2023 NEstudio/Shutterstock.com Here are the 25 most powerful militaries in the world in 2023. 25. Thailand GDP: $524 billion Defense spending: $6.3 billion Manpower: 350,000 Tanks: 587 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 469 Naval vessels: 292 Thailands defense expenditure has grown over the years, and has been driven by factors such as external security threats, modernization program, and arms race in the neighborhood. Since 2006, ASEAN member countries like Thailand, Cambodia, and Indonesia have more than doubled their military spending due to regional disputes, such as in the South China Sea. 24. Canada GDP: $2,140 billion Defense spending: $36.3 billion Manpower: 70,000 Tanks: 82 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 380 Naval vessels: 61 With over $36 billion in defense spending in 2022, Canada is emerging as a major military strength. In January, 2023, the government announced it was buying 88 F-35 stealth fifth-generation fighter jets, developed by Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT), in a bid to enhance Arctic security and meet NATO spending obligations. Canada has an active military manpower of 70,000 with 82 tanks and 61 naval vessels. It also has 1,467 airfields which are testament of Canadas logistical capabilities. 23. Netherlands GDP: $1,020 billion Defense spending: $13.7 billion Manpower: 35,000 Tanks: 18 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 156 Naval vessels: 61 Netherlands finds its place among the top militaries in the world in 2023 primarily due to investments in air power. It currently has a fleet of 156 military aircraft, including 40 F-16 and 13 F-35 fighter jets. Its combat tanks are only 18, and that is because in 2011, the Dutch government, as a cost-cutting measure, eliminated its entire force of 60 tanks. However, a GDP now of over $1 trillion allows the Dutch government to spend and raise its tanks fleet again. 22. Australia GDP: $1,700 billion Defense spending: $30 billion Manpower: 60,500 Tanks: 59 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 430 Naval vessels: 43 In May 2023, Australia proposed a defense budget of $30 billion, and announced to purchase nuclear submarines, the SSN-AUKUS, as part of a three-way agreement involving Australia, the UK, and the U.S. The fleet size of Australias military purpose aircrafts stands at 430, which also includes 37 F-35A fighter jets. An order for 72 more of these fifth-generation fighter jets has been placed with Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT). With a tank fleet of 59 and active military personnel of over 60,000, Australia finds its place among the 25 most powerful militaries in 2023. 21. Egypt GDP: $475 billion Defense spending: $4.35 billion Manpower: 440,000 Tanks: 4,664 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 1,062 Naval vessels: 245 Egypt is another powerful country on the list from the MENA region. It has an active military manpower of 440,000, with over 4,000 tanks, more than 1,000 aircrafts and fighter jets, and 245 naval assets. The country receives military assistance worth $1.3 billion per year from the United States to facilitate the transition from outdated Soviet era equipment. Egypt has a fleet of 168 F-16 fourth-generation fighter jets, and is purchasing 30 units of Rafale jets and 12 CH-47F Chinooks to further boost its air force capabilities. Sisis government has increased defense expenditure amid ongoing terrorism in the Sinai peninsula and instability in Libya. Under a contract between the United States and Egypt, Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) will provide sustainment and technical support to Egypts E-2 aircrafts. 20. Iran GDP: $368 billion Defense spending: $5.5 billion Manpower: 575,000 Tanks: 4,071 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 543 Naval vessels: 101 Much of Irans military strength is owed to its manpower and combat tanks fleet. Global sanctions have impeded the countrys economic growth and subsequently its ability to upgrade its air and naval power. The country ranks amongst the lowest in both cyber security and space presence. However, despite these challenges, Iran makes the list due to the battle-hardness and strength of its ground forces as well as its ICBM arsenal. 19. Indonesia GDP: $1,200 billion Defense spending: $8.8 billion Manpower: 400,000 Tanks: 314 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 461 Naval vessels: 324 Indonesia is next on the list. In 2023, the country allocated $8.8 billion on developing the countrys primary defense system. This includes an order of shipment of 42 Rafale fighter jets and two Scorpene submarines. With a GDP of around $1.2 trillion, Indonesia has the potential to further develop itself as a key security player in the southeast Asia region. 18. Brazil GDP: $1,920 billion Defense spending: $21.8 billion Manpower: 360,000 Tanks: 466 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 679 Naval vessels: 112 Brazils GDP is nearing $2 trillion. It has an active manpower in military of 360,000, and up to 87 million people 40% of the population who are fit for military service if required to join. The South American country boasts 4,093 active airfields, which is the second most in the world, after the United States. Advantages over manpower and logistics make Brazil one of the most powerful militaries in the world in 2023. The government is spending heavily on modernizing its defense, and has procured 36 Gripen fighter jets from Sweden to strengthen its air force. It is also upgrading its surveillance radars under a contract with Raytheon Technologies Corporation (NYSE:RTX). 17. Spain GDP: $1,450 billion Defense spending: $14.88 billion Manpower: 120,000 Tanks: 327 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 503 Naval vessels: 166 Spain spends only about 1% of its GDP on defense. Despite that, it has one of Europes most powerful militaries. After Russias invasion of Ukraine, the government in Madrid declared to boost military expenditure to meet NATOs defense spending targets. It plans to double military spending by 2029 and is currently increasing the number of troops deployed in eastern Europe. 16. Italy GDP: $2,107 billion Defense spending: $32 billion Manpower: 170,000 Tanks: 197 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 862 Naval vessels: 313 Italy ranks eleventh in the world on defense spending. Its armed forces are highly regarded for their capabilities, as well as contributions in international peacekeeping efforts. Defense experts have put key focus on the strength Italy possesses in combat helicopters and aircraft carrier warships. Currently, it has over 862 military aircraft, of which more than 400 are helicopters. Italy also has a fleet of 14 F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets. On the naval side, it has 2 aircraft carrier warships the Giuseppe Garibaldi and Cavour. 15. Ukraine GDP: $200 billion Defense spending: $44 billion Manpower: 200,000 Tanks: 1,890 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 318 Naval vessels: 38 Ukraines response to Russian invasion has received acclaim from security experts across the world. The country has channeled billions of dollars into defense to support its war efforts. Kyiv has also received heavy military equipment as aid from allied countries, which has helped boost its military strength. It requires mention that Ukraine has a huge defense industry at home, with manufacturing focused on ballistic missiles and engines for tanks and helicopters. Until 2012, it was the third largest arms exporter in the world. Its tanks fleet currently stands at 1,890 and has over 300 aircraft and fighter jets which have proven instrumental in resisting Russian advances. The United States in December 2022 awarded Raytheon Technologies Corporation (NYSE:RTX) a $1.2 billion contract to provide Ukraine six advanced surface-to-air missile system batteries. Moreover, Ukraine boasts of high capabilities in cyber security, having a rating score of 75.32 out of 100 in the 2022 Cyber Security Index rankings. A leading software engineering and technology company, Ciklum, that specializes in cyber security has its board chair in Kyiv. Ukraine has developed capabilities in cyber defense as a reaction to multiple cyber attacks from Russia, making Ukraine one of the most powerful militaries on the globe in 2023. 14. Poland GDP: $686 billion Defense spending: $45 billion Manpower: 120,000 Tanks: 569 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 436 Naval vessels: 86 Poland is one of the highest spenders on defense among NATO members. Earlier this year, prime minister Mateusz Morawiecki announced plans to spend around $100 billion between 2023 and 2035 on procurement of sophisticated weapons and making the Polish army the largest in Europe in terms of manpower with the goal of touching 250,000 active military personnel. $10 billion have already been spent on acquiring advanced rocket systems. In July 2022, Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) delivered the first of six IBSC Engagement Operations Centers for Polands medium-range air and missile defenses. 13. Pakistan GDP: $377 billion Defense spending: $7.5 billion Manpower: 654,000 Tanks: 3,742 Nuclear warheads: 165 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 1,387 Naval vessels: 114 Despite economic challenges, Pakistan spends heavily on defense expenditure due to the perceived threat from archrival India. Turmoil in Afghanistan since the 1980s has also kept Pakistans western front prone to violence in the form of tribal militancy in the northwest and cross-border terrorist attacks. The country boasts a huge arsenal of nuclear weapons, leapfrogging India in the nuclear arms race. Its battle-hardened military is considered amongst the strongest in the region and also lends security assistance to allies in the GCC. Pakistans air fleet comprises 1,387 aircrafts. The air forces combat fighter jets include 135 F-7s, 109 JF-17s, and 44 F-16s, among others. 12. Saudi Arabia GDP: $950 billion Defense spending: $75 billion Manpower: 225,000 Tanks: 1,273 Nuclear warheads: 0 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 897 Naval vessels: 57 Saudi Arabia in 2022 returned in the list of the top five spenders on military expenditure, according to a report published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The kingdom spent an estimated $75 billion on its military, which represents over 7% of its GDP, and more than 40% of all military spending in the Middle East in 2022. Saudi Arabia, which relies on oil as its major source of revenue, has spent heavily on defense in the wake of the Arab Spring in the early 2010s. Since 2015, it has been involved in a military intervention in neighboring Yemen. The Saudi Royal Air Forces active combat jets include 211 F-15s, 81 Tornado IDS, and 72 Eurofighter Typhoons. 11. Israel GDP: $502 billion Defense spending: $22.6 billion Manpower: 173,000 Tanks: 2,200 Nuclear warheads: 90 Aircrafts including fighter jets: 597 Naval vessels: 67 Israels major military strength is derived from its air capabilities. It boasts a fleet of over 600 military aircrafts, of which nearly 40% are fighter jets including 27 F-35 fifth-generation fighters and 175 active F-16s. The country is emerging as a major exporter of air defense systems. Haaretz reports that in two years since the signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020, Israel signed $3 billion worth of defense export agreements with regional countries. Click to continue reading and see the 10 Most Powerful Militaries in the World in 2023. Suggested Articles: Disclosure: None. 25 Most Powerful Militaries in the World in 2023 is originally published on Insider Monkey. GCShutter / iStock.com High school students planning for their future may be concerned about entering an uncertain job market in the next four to six years. College students still choosing a major may also worry about their prospects, especially if the U.S. enters a recession this year or in 2024, as many experts predict. Make Money With AI and Chat GPT: How To Earn $1,000 a Month Find: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch A new report from the HEA Group analyzed more than 36,000 undergraduate college programs to find the most lucrative fields. While graduates in most fields cant expect to earn six figures right out of college or even after four years in the workforce there are some industries where this is quite possible. However, some of the highest paying fields also have the fewest jobs available for new graduates. For instance, Operations Research, a major that could lead to a job as an analyst for a major company looking to reduce costs and improve efficiency, has just 104,200 jobs available right now, according to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Statistics. Operations research analysts, however, can expect to earn more than $112,000 per year just a few years after graduation. What are the top degrees if youre looking to earn more than $100,000 after college, and how many jobs are available in these careers? Operations Research Early-career salary: $112,00 Jobs available: 104,200 Growth rate: 23% Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering Early-career salary: $109,000 Jobs available: 7,600 Growth rate: 4% Computer Science Early-career salary: $105,000 Jobs available: 33,500 Growth rate: 21% Marine Transportation Early-career salary: $104,000 Jobs available: 75,400 Growth rate: 1% Computer Engineering Early-career salary: $99,000 Jobs available: 76,900 Growth rate: 5% Veterinary Medicine Early-career salary: $97,500 Jobs available: 86,300 Growth rate: 19% Petroleum Engineering Early-career salary: $97,000 Jobs available: 86,300 Growth rate: 19% Systems Engineering Early-career salary: $95,000 Jobs available: 301,000 Growth rate: 10% Pharmaceutical Science Early-career salary: $94,000 Jobs available: 119,200 Growth rate: 17% Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering Early-career salary: $92,000 Jobs available: 303,800 Growth rate: 3% Theres more good news, too. Many of these jobs, including Operations Research, are in fields that are growing faster than the national average, based on the latest BLS data. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: These Are the 4 Highest Paying Majors Where New Grads Can Earn a $100,000 Salary Is It a Bad Idea to Use My 401(k) to Pay Off My Mortgage? pay off mortgage with 401k The government offers several incentives for retirement accounts like 401(k)s. For instance, theyre a tax-deferred investment, meaning you wont pay taxes on them until you withdraw. 401(k) deposits also dont count as taxable income during the year that you make them, so you can use them to lower your tax liability. Just as they incentivize retirement investment, the government penalizes people who withdraw early. But in some scenarios, it may make sense to dip into your 401(k) early. One of these scenarios is to pay your mortgage. Before deciding to take money out of your retirement fund to pay for your mortgage you should weigh the pros and cons. You may also want to get expert advice from a financial advisor about your unique situation. Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage with Your 401(k)? Paying your mortgage off can feel like a relief, especially if the debt hurts your mental health. But you dont want to make this decision solely on that emotion. Your retirement is your nest egg. Before you dip into your retirement savings, there are four questions you need to answer. 1. How Old Are You? If youre under the age of 59.5, youll face an extra 10% penalty for withdrawing from your 401(k) early. Thats a huge blow that makes paying down your mortgage not worth it. That means if you take out $50,000 to pay down the mortgage, youll automatically be penalized $5,000. Thats before taxes, too, so your actual cash-in-hand will be even smaller. If youre ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now. 2. How Much Do You Owe? How much you owe on your mortgage factors in a couple ways. For example, lets say you owe $200,000 on your mortgage. If you pay off your mortgage, not only will you not have to make the mortgage payment, but youll also avoid paying the interest on $200,000. However, if you take $200,000 out of your 401(k), youll have to pay tax on the distribution. For $200,000, this could result in owing thousands in taxes. 3. How Much Have You Saved? Depending on how big your nest egg is, paying off your mortgage with your 401(k) could make sense. However, look at your other savings or assets first. If you need to stretch your 401(k) into retirement, it may make more sense to keep it invested and use other assets to pay down your mortgage. 4. Whats Your Expected Rate of Return? This is a big one. If your 401(k) is reliably delivering a 7% rate of return, you should think before touching it. That rate of return is free money. For example, if you have $1 million in your 401(k), at 7% annually, thats earning you $70,000 a year. As you dip into your 401(k), this annual payment will shrink. If you take $300,000 out to pay off your mortgage, your annual growth will go from $70,000 down to $49,000. Pros of Paying Off Your Mortgage with Your 401(k) pay off mortgage with 401k When you pay off your mortgage, regardless of the method, it can feel rewarding and provide you with plenty of breathing room in your finances. Here are some of the most important things to consider that can be considered positives in your decision-making process. Reduced Monthly Costs: Theres something to be said about not having to pay your mortgage every month. If your mortgage payment is $2,500 a month, thats $30,000 every year that you dont need to worry about. If youre on a fixed income, eliminating this mortgage expense could drastically reduce your regular costs. Avoiding or Reducing Interest Payments: By paying off your mortgage early, youll cut down on the total interest you pay. For instance, if you have a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage of $400,000 at 7% interest, youll pay $558,035.59 in interest alone over that 30 years. The younger your mortgage is, the more this has an impact. Thats because of the way mortgages amortize. Borrowers pay the interest owed up front, gradually paying more of the principal over the loan term. If youre in the final five years of your 30-year mortgage, youve already paid most of the interest. However, if youre in the first five years of your mortgage, you still have most of the interest ahead of you. Planning Your Estate: Owning your home in full can make it easier for your heirs. When estate planning, you may decide to pay off your mortgage so your heirs receive it at full value. As you near the end of your life, owning the home outright can protect the asset for those youre leaving it to. Cons of Paying Off Your Mortgage with Your 401(k) Using your retirement funds always comes with some potential drawbacks to consider to ensure its the right decision for your situation. Here is what you should be aware of before moving forward. Reduced Retirement Assets: Paying off your mortgage with your 401(k) can significantly eat into your retirement assets, especially if you have a large balance left to pay. For instance, if youre paying off a $200,000 mortgage and you have $1,000,000 in retirement savings, thats 20% of your retirement. Loss of Potential for Retirement Asset Growth: If youre seeing 7% returns annually on your retirement savings, by reducing your 401(k), youre reducing your returns. This annual growth can be a large piece of what allows you to retire. By taking out a significant chunk to pay off your mortgage, youre cutting how much returns you can get. A Sizable Tax Bill: Perhaps one of the biggest deterrents to paying off your mortgage with a 401(k) is your tax bill. Remember, all the money you withdraw from your 401(k) will be counted as income on your income taxes. That means that if you withdraw $200,000 to pay off your mortgage, youre going to pay taxes on it. This could bump you up to another tax bracket, raising your effective tax rate. If youre going to pay off your mortgage with a 401(k) withdrawal, be prepared to pay a hefty tax bill. The Bottom Line pay off mortgage with 401k Paying off a mortgage with a 401(k) can make sense in specific scenarios. It removes the emotional weight of the debt, plus it can make things easier for your heirs when estate planning. However, you need to consider the cons carefully. You will end up paying taxes and you dont want to dip into your retirement savings to the point of it affecting your quality of life. Tips for Retirement and Mortgages Want to create a financial plan that grows your money and provides for a secure retirement? You might benefit from talking to a financial advisor. 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. Use SmartAssets mortgage calculator to work out how much a new mortgage payment will be, see how the mortgage amortizes and how much interest you will pay throughout the loan. Check out SmartAssets income tax calculator, you can estimate how much tax you will pay due to a large withdrawal from your 401(k). Photo credit: iStock.com/Wasan Tita, iStock.com/FatCamera, iStock.com/AmnajKhetsamtip The post Using Your 401(k) to Pay Off Your Mortgage appeared first on SmartAsset Blog. These 8 Regions Could Benefit From Lack of US Crypto Clarity, Says Coinbase CEO Coinbases CEO has again urged American regulators to make clear its stance on crypto and amend current policies. Failing to do so, could see innovation occur elsewhere. It's important for American technology leadership and national security that this industry be built (at least in part) in America, said Brian Armstrong, sharing a recent op-ed piece further detailing his position. Failing to reel in crypto rules stateside, Armstrong argued that other countries, notably mainland China, could take the lead. "China aims to directly challenge the U.S. dollar and its role in global commerce, he wrote, adding that building a portion of the industry in America is a matter of national security. 'SEC Has No Intention' of Providing Clear Rules for Crypto: Coinbase He specifically mentioned seven other global financial powerhouses including the U.K., United Arab Emirates, Brazil, Japan, the European Union, Australia, and Singapore that are "vying to become crypto hubs." The crypto exchange has long been in a battle with the Securities and Exchange Commission after the regulator issued Coinbase with a Wells Notice earlier this year. According to reports at that time, the SEC was expected to take action against the firm over its staking services. Kraken, another U.S.-based crypto exchange, was also hit with a $30 million fine for its staking service, forcing the crypto exchange to shutter the offering to its American clientele. Other crypto businesses have expressed similar concerns, including Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse, who recently said that "confusing" regulations in the U.S. will push the industry off-shore. Coinbase Asks Court to Force SEC to Clarify Crypto Regulations Like Garlinghouse, Armstrong also highlighted the need for regulatory clarity in the U.S. He added that Coinbase has regularly asked policymakers and regulators for "regulatory clarity needed to ensure consumer protection and realize the promise of crypto." Crypto regulations abroad While the U.S. continues to hammer out its rule book, crypto regulations are already getting put in place abroad. Europe, for example, has just ushered in its latest crypto rulebook called Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA). Though its far from comprehensive, its already earned nods of approval for providing clear guidelines for crypto firms. Hong Kong, UAE Central Banks Coordinate on Crypto Regulations SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce said MiCA could even serve as a model for regulations in the U.S. In Hong Kong, authorities are also expected to allow retail investment from June 1, with some experts suggesting that Beijing wants to use the territory as a testing ground" for a wider reopening in mainland China. Homegrown jet's commercial debut brings new opportunities for China's aviation industry Xinhua) 08:11, May 31, 2023 This photo taken on May 28, 2023 shows a C919, China's self-developed large passenger aircraft, getting ready for its first commercial flight in east China's Shanghai. C919 kicked off its first commercial flight from Shanghai to Beijing on Sunday, marking its official entry into the civil aviation market. (Xinhua/Ding Ting) BEIJING, May 30 (Xinhua) -- As China's first indigenously developed large jetliner has entered commercial service, the country's aviation industry and its supporting sectors will see tremendous market opportunities in the coming decades, analysts and industry experts have said. The C919, a single-aisle aircraft designed by Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (COMAC), completed its first commercial flight from Shanghai to Beijing on Sunday, marking its official entry into the civil aviation market. "The successful commercial debut of the C919 means that China's homegrown jet has gained access to the mainstream 150-to-200-seat, single-aisle trunk aircraft market, one of the most competitive markets in civil aviation," aviation expert Han Tao told Securities Daily. Launched in 2007, the C919 project saw its first aircraft roll off the production line in 2015. In 2017, the model had its successful maiden flight. The C919 plane was put into regular service by China Eastern Airlines on Monday, flying between Shanghai and Chengdu, Sichuan Province. The airline said that with new planes arriving, the model will gradually operate on more routes. There have so far been 1,061 orders for C919 planes from various customers, according to COMAC. The C919 model has advantages in both performance and price, said Cinda Securities, which expects the plane's commercial operations to boost its market influence. According to a market forecast released by COMAC in late 2022, China is expected to be the world's largest single-country civil aviation market by 2041. Over the 2022-2041 period, China's civil aviation market will receive 9,284 new planes, accounting for 21.9 percent of all global deliveries, per the COMAC forecast. This would include 6,288 single-aisle jetliners, which are worth about 749 billion U.S. dollars in terms of market value. The production of large aircraft means huge opportunities for local suppliers, according to CITIC Securities, as it expects more components that are currently produced around the world to be manufactured domestically in the future. Market analysts also believe that the domestic production of large aircraft, which are often regarded as crown jewels of manufacturing, will help boost many industries both upstream and downstream. "The successful commercial maiden flight of the C919 is much more than a breakthrough in domestic jet manufacturing," according to Essence Securities analyst Zhao Yang, adding that its supporting industrial chain will bring benefits in the long run. "Supporting sectors such as aircraft materials, maintenance, personnel training and software development would be among the beneficiaries," Han said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) If you're looking for a multi-bagger, there's a few things to keep an eye out for. Ideally, a business will show two trends; firstly a growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and secondly, an increasing amount of capital employed. Basically this means that a company has profitable initiatives that it can continue to reinvest in, which is a trait of a compounding machine. In light of that, when we looked at Advance ZincTek (ASX:ANO) and its ROCE trend, we weren't exactly thrilled. Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE) For those who don't know, ROCE is a measure of a company's yearly pre-tax profit (its return), relative to the capital employed in the business. To calculate this metric for Advance ZincTek, this is the formula: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.10 = AU$3.5m (AU$40m - AU$5.3m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2022). So, Advance ZincTek has an ROCE of 10%. By itself that's a normal return on capital and it's in line with the industry's average returns of 10%. See our latest analysis for Advance ZincTek roce While the past is not representative of the future, it can be helpful to know how a company has performed historically, which is why we have this chart above. If you want to delve into the historical earnings, revenue and cash flow of Advance ZincTek, check out these free graphs here. What The Trend Of ROCE Can Tell Us On the surface, the trend of ROCE at Advance ZincTek doesn't inspire confidence. Over the last five years, returns on capital have decreased to 10% from 25% five years ago. However, given capital employed and revenue have both increased it appears that the business is currently pursuing growth, at the consequence of short term returns. If these investments prove successful, this can bode very well for long term stock performance. What We Can Learn From Advance ZincTek's ROCE While returns have fallen for Advance ZincTek in recent times, we're encouraged to see that sales are growing and that the business is reinvesting in its operations. And long term investors must be optimistic going forward because the stock has returned a huge 304% to shareholders in the last five years. So while investors seem to be recognizing these promising trends, we would look further into this stock to make sure the other metrics justify the positive view. One final note, you should learn about the 4 warning signs we've spotted with Advance ZincTek (including 2 which can't be ignored) . While Advance ZincTek isn't earning the highest return, check out this free list of companies that are earning high returns on equity with solid balance sheets. 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 Brace yourselves: AI may cause humankind to go extinct. On Tuesday, hundreds of AI industry leaders and researchers including executives from Microsoft, Google, and OpenAI sounded a sobering warning. They claim that the artificial intelligence technology they are engineering could one day pose a real and present danger to humanity's existence. Alongside the horrors of pandemics and nuclear wars, they consider AI a societal risk of similar magnitude. In a letter published by the Center for AI Safety, the AI specialists offered this statement characterized by its stark brevity: "Mitigating the risk of extinction from AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war." Thats it, thats all they say. Source: Center for AI Safety Meet Chaos-GPT: An AI Tool That Seeks to Destroy Humanity The statement paints AI as an imminent threat, akin to a nuclear disaster or a global pandemic. But the signatories, these wizards of the technology industry, failed to expand upon their ominous warning. How exactly is this end-of-days scenario supposed to go down? When should we mark our calendars for the rise of our robot overlords? Why would AI, an invention of human innovation, turn on its creators? The silence from these architects of artificial intelligence was resounding, and they provided no answers. Indeed, those industry leaders were no more informative than a chatbot with a canned response. In the realm of global threats, AI seems to have suddenly jumped the queue, beating climate change, geopolitical conflicts, and even alien invasions in terms of Google keyword searches. Google searches for AI, compared to other global concerns like war, alien invasions, and climate change. Image: Google Interestingly, companies tend to advocate for regulations when it aligns with their interests. This could be viewed as their way of saying, "We wish to have a hand in shaping these regulations." It's akin to the fox petitioning for new rules in the hen house. Most Americans Consider AI a Threat to Humanity, New Poll Finds Its also notable that OpenAIs CEO, Sam Altman, has been pushing for regulations in the US. Still, he threatened to leave Europe if the continents politicians kept trying to regulate AI. Were gonna try to comply, Altman said in a panel at the University College London. If we can comply, we will. And if we cant, well cease operating. Fair to say, he then backtracked a couple of days later, saying that OpenAI had no plans to leave Europe. This, of course, happened after he got the chance to talk to regulators about the issue in a very productive week. very productive week of conversations in europe about how to best regulate AI! we are excited to continue to operate here and of course have no plans to leave. Sam Altman (@sama) May 26, 2023 AI Is Risky, But Is It That Risky? The potential hazards of artificial intelligence have not gone unnoticed among experts. A previous open letter signed by 31,810 endorsers, including Elon Musk, Steve Wozniak, Yuval Harari, and Andrew Yang called for a pause in the training of Powerful AI models. These protocols should ensure that systems adhering to them are safe beyond a reasonable doubt, the letter says, clarifying that This does not mean a pause on AI development in general, merely a stepping back from the dangerous race to ever-larger unpredictable black-box models with emergent capabilities. Former OpenAI Researcher: Theres a 50% Chance AI Ends in 'Catastrophe' The issue of a potential AI Foom, (in which an AI become capable of improving its own systems, increasing its capabilities to the point that it surpass human intelligence), has been discussed for years. However, the rapid pace of change today, coupled with substantial media coverage, has thrust the debate into the global spotlight. Source: Columbia Journalism Review This has generated diverse views on how AI will (not merely could) impact the future of social interactions. Some envision a utopian era where aligned AI and humans interact, and technological advancement reigns supreme. Others believe humanity will adapt to AI, with new jobs created around the technology, similar to the job growth that followed the invention of the automobile. Yet others maintain that AI stands a significant chance of maturing and becoming uncontrollable, posing a real threat to humanity. Until then, its business as usual in the world of AI. Keep your eye on your ChatGPT, your Bard, or your Siri they might be just one software update away from ruling the world. But for now, it seems that humanitys biggest threat is not our own inventions, but rather our boundless talent for hyperbole. When you buy shares in a company, there is always a risk that the price drops to zero. But if you pick the right stock, you can make a lot more than 100%. For example, the AirAsia X Berhad (KLSE:AAX) share price has soared 216% return in just a single year. On top of that, the share price is up 140% in about a quarter. This could be related to the recent financial results, released recently - you can catch up on the most recent data by reading our company report. Looking back further, the stock price is 61% higher than it was three years ago. Now it's worth having a look at the company's fundamentals too, because that will help us determine if the long term shareholder return has matched the performance of the underlying business. View our latest analysis for AirAsia X Berhad AirAsia X Berhad wasn't profitable in the last twelve months, it is unlikely we'll see a strong correlation between its share price and its earnings per share (EPS). Arguably revenue is our next best option. When a company doesn't make profits, we'd generally expect to see good revenue growth. That's because fast revenue growth can be easily extrapolated to forecast profits, often of considerable size. Over the last twelve months, AirAsia X Berhad's revenue grew by 91%. That's a head and shoulders above most loss-making companies. Meanwhile, the market has paid attention, sending the share price soaring 216% in response. That sort of revenue growth is bound to attract attention, even if the company doesn't turn a profit. Given the positive sentiment around the stock we're cautious, but there's no doubt its worth watching. You can see how earnings and revenue have changed over time in the image below (click on the chart to see the exact values). If you are thinking of buying or selling AirAsia X Berhad stock, you should check out this FREE detailed report on its balance sheet. A Different Perspective It's good to see that AirAsia X Berhad has rewarded shareholders with a total shareholder return of 216% in the last twelve months. That certainly beats the loss of about 8% per year over the last half decade. This makes us a little wary, but the business might have turned around its fortunes. 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 risks, for instance. Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for AirAsia X Berhad you should know about. But note: AirAsia X Berhad may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with past earnings growth (and further growth forecast). Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on Malaysian exchanges. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. 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 Amazon to pay more than $30 million to settle FTC privacy complaints over Alexa and Ring Amazon has agreed to pay more than $30 million to settle two federal lawsuits alleging that the tech giant violated users privacy including that of children through its Alexa voice assistant and its Ring doorbell cameras. The twin settlements Wednesday with the Federal Trade Commission highlight claims that Amazon retained Ring videos and Alexa voice recordings, along with related geolocation information, for years in some cases without consent and despite requests by consumers for the data to be deleted. In addition, the FTC alleged that lax data policies at Amazon meant that the information could often be accessed by unauthorized parties and often was, in the case of Ring doorbell footage. While we disagree with the FTCs claims regarding both Alexa and Ring, and deny violating the law, these settlements put these matters behind us, Amazon said in a statement Wednesday. Amazon acquired Ring in 2018, paving the way for the e-commerce giant to get into the home security business. In addition to video doorbells, Ring makes indoor and outdoor security cameras as well as alarm systems. In a complaint accompanying the settlement, the FTC claimed Ring gave employees unrestricted access to videos from customers home security systems. In one instance, the complaint states, a Ring employee viewed thousands of video recordings from at least 81 female users between June and August 2017, viewing cameras that users had assigned to bathrooms and bedrooms. An initial misconduct report by a fellow employee was not taken seriously, the complaint said. Only after the supervisor noticed that the male employee was only viewing videos of pretty girls did the supervisor escalate the report of misconduct, the FTC alleged in the complaint. Only at that point did Ring review a portion of the employees activity and, ultimately, terminate his employment. The complaint against Ring also recounts numerous alleged instances of hacked cameras allowing malicious actors to speak to victims, causing distress. Many of these attacks allegedly occurred through successful guessing of user passwords, reflecting failures by Amazon to require strong password protections, according to the complaint. Between January 2019 and March 2020, more than 55,000 U.S. customers suffered from credential stuffing and brute force attacks that compromised Ring devices, the FTC alleged. Through these attacks, bad actors gained access to hundreds of thousands of videos of the personal spaces of consumers homes, including their bedrooms and their childrens bedroomsrecorded by devices that Ring sold by claiming that they would increase consumers security. Ring has agreed to pay $5.8 million and implement a new data security program, according to the proposed settlement. In its statement, Amazon said: Ring promptly addressed the issues at hand on its own years ago, well before the FTC began its inquiry. Ring promptly addressed these issues on its own years ago, well before the FTC began its inquiry, Ring said in a statement provided to CNN. While we disagree with the FTCs allegations and deny violating the law, this settlement resolves this matter so we can focus on innovating on behalf of our customers. Separately, Amazon will pay $25 million to settle the allegations surrounding its Alexa voice assistant. In a complaint, the FTC alleged that Amazon violated a childrens privacy law known as COPPA, which restricts the collection of personal information from children under 13 without a parents consent. According to the FTC, Amazon kept Alexa voice recordings of children indefinitely unless a user specifically instructed the company to delete the recordings. It also allegedly sometimes failed to honor the deletion requests and instead retained that data for its own potential use. The proposed Alexa settlement requires Amazon to delete voice recordings and geolocation data in accordance with past consumer requests, including that of children. The company will also be barred from using that data to train its algorithms, the FTC said. Amazon also agreed to send consumers notices about the FTC settlement, and to implement a privacy program for geolocation data. We built Alexa with strong privacy protections and customer controls, designed Amazon Kids to comply with COPPA, and collaborated with the FTC before expanding Amazon Kids to include Alexa, the company said in the statement. As part of the settlement, we agreed to make a small modification to our already strong practices, and will remove child profiles that have been inactive for more than 18 months unless a parent or guardian chooses to keep them. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com (Bloomberg) -- A few hundred Amazon.com Inc. employees walked off the job Wednesday to protest the companys return-to-work policies, impact on the climate and deepest-ever round of layoffs. Most Read from Bloomberg The protest, organized by Amazon Employees for Climate Justice and Amazons Remote Advocacy group, took place at the companys Seattle headquarters during the lunch hour. The workers gathered under leaden skies near the Spheres, the plant-filled orbs at the heart of the corporate campus, brandishing signs saying, Hell no, RTO! and Listen to your employees. Stop greenwashing. The groups said almost 2,000 workers globally pledged to join the walkout, a small fraction of the companys more than 300,000 corporate personnel. Morale has taken a hit at Amazon headquarters since the company began layoffs late last year that ultimately affected about 27,000 employees. Amazon also ordered most corporate staff to report to the office at least three days a week starting in May, a move that was not universally applauded. The e-commerce and cloud computing giant has weathered a number of employee protests and walkouts in recent years. Amazon Employees for Climate Justice began in late 2018 as a gathering of people who shared concerns about climate change and their employers role in it. They started a push to get the company to do more, including organizing a walkout in September 2019 that was timed to coincide with global strikes to call for more action to combat global warming. The day before those protests, Amazon unveiled a Climate Pledge and said its operations would become carbon neutral by 2040. Employee activists claimed victory but said the actions didnt go far enough and urged executives to cut Amazons ties to fossil-fuel companies, among other actions. Amazon has woven its environmental goals into more of its operations in recent years, though it also quietly abandoned a climate goal that preceded the Climate Pledge that would have rendered half its shipments carbon-emission-free by 2030. Amazon fired two of the climate groups founding members in 2020 after they criticized its Covid-19 policies and sought to hold forums with warehouse workers. Amazon said Emily Cunningham and Maren Costa were terminated for violating its policy prohibiting employees from speaking publicly about company matters. In 2021, Amazon settled with the workers to end a federal investigation into allegations it retaliated against them for their workplace activism. Amazon will not make these changes without pressure, but they have and they will make them, said Cunningham, who attended the Wednesday protest. We continue to push hard on getting to net carbon zero by 2040, said Brad Glasser, an Amazon spokesperson. While we all would like to get there tomorrow, for companies like ours who consume a lot of power, and have very substantial transportation, packaging and physical building assets, itll take time to accomplish. Glasser said the company was on track get all of its energy from renewable sources by 2025. On Amazons return-to-work policy, he said: Theres more energy, collaboration and connections happening, and weve heard this from lots of employees and the businesses that surround our offices. We understand that its going to take time to adjust back to being in the office more. (Updated with comment from climate activist in ninth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Amazon's Ring doorbell camera is marketed as a safety device, but a new lawsuit claims the company gave its employees and contractors "unfettered" access to personal videos, violating customer privacy. In one case, a Ring employee "viewed thousands of video recordings belonging to at least 81 unique female users," according to the lawsuit filed Wednesday by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. That same worker searched for cameras located in "intimate" spaces, such as "Master Bedroom," and spied for months, the FTC claims. Amazon settled with the FTC for $5.8 million, according to a separate filing Wednesday with the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. "Ring's disregard for privacy and security exposed consumers to spying and harassment," Samuel Levine, director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, said in a statement. In a statement to CBS News, Amazon said its Ring division "promptly addressed these issues on its own years ago, well before the FTC began its inquiry." "While we disagree with the FTC's allegations and deny violating the law, this settlement resolves this matter so we can focus on innovating on behalf of our customers," the ecommerce company said. Americas national beer could soon be Mexican as Memorial Day weekend sales drop plunges Bud Light further into crisis Memorial Day is usually a time for families to fire up the backyard grill, invite the neighbors over, and enjoy the sunshine over hot dogs and hamburgersand, yes, beer. 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 But when the coolers were cracked open this weekend, fewer and fewer Americans reached for Bud Light. Instead people competed on social media as to who could post their best picture of fully stacked shelves next to signs advertising rebates for every case of Bud Light bought. Thanks to the continued backlash over an April 1 Instagram postin which the transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney opened a Bud Light can with their likeness on itthe most popular beer brand in the United States could soon come from Mexico. A combination of a 26% drop in sales of the Anheuser-Busch InBev brand with a 9.2% gain in Modelo Especial means the two may end up swapping rankings in 2023, according to data from Bump Williams Consulting and NielsenIQ. Thats a monumental decline, Williams told the New York Post. If this continues, Modelo will surpass Bud Light for the year. For parent company AB InBev, this might not seem like a problem at first glance since it owns and distributes Modelo Especial throughout the global beer marketwith one notable exception: the United States. There it belongs to Constellation Brands. Not just Bud Light Consumers are not just punishing Bud Light. Culture war advocates lashed out at Miller Lite for an advertisement released in March, in which AB InBevs other major U.S. brand sought to call time out on the objectification of women when marketing beer. Attempts by Budweiser to backpedal with patriotic imagery of Americas heartland have not had the desired effect, as the Memorial Day week sales drop proved the worst since the controversy began. Politicians across the world are embracing LGBTQ rights as a wedge issue to stoke support among their base. Just hours after he was re-elected on Sunday, Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan rallied his supporters in another attack against Turkeys LGBTQ community, while Hungarys Viktor Orban earned fans among U.S. conservatives like Tucker Carlson for his strident opposition to gay rights. At the advice of market researchers, companies are increasingly wading into this political powder keg, only to find themselves under fire from both the left and the right for their often ham-fisted attempts to position themselves on broader social issues. The Kendall Jenner Pepsi ad that addressed the hot-button issue of race riots is a perfect example of a campaign that backfired horribly on the company. The message from communications consultants, however, is "keep trying." Without earning credibility among consumers on important activist causes, the fear goes, people will shop elsewhere. For example, the latest annual Trust Barometer report published in June 2022 by the respected public relations firm Edelman argued that speaking out on climate change or gender and racial equality is a winning strategy. Their polling data indicated this approach should earn corporations net-net more new business than they will net lose. Gen Z is the tipping point for action, it recommended. If you can activate them, you can shape behavior of all. However, the push to partner with influencers like Mulvaney forgets that the 29-year-old transgender TikToker isnt the only influencer capable of shaping opinions on the internet. Conservative musician Kid Rock stirred up support for a Bud Light boycott by responding with his own social media message in which he emptied an entire clip of ammunition into cases of Bud Light. The backlash appeared to have caught Bud Light by surprise. Days before the Mulvaney post dropped, Bud Light marketing head Alissa Heinerscheid, who wanted to bring broader appeal to a brand she felt was fratty and out of touch, was focusing on making a positive social impact in her role: It doesnt mean anything unless I am positively impacting other people, she said. The 39-year-old has since been removed from her position and placed on a leave of absence amid a broader restructuring of marketing across the parent company. 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 By Rajesh Kumar Singh, David Shepardson and Diane Bartz (Reuters) -American Airlines Group will appeal a U.S. court decision requiring it to end an alliance with JetBlue Airways Corp, American CEO Robert Isom said on Wednesday. U.S. District Judge Leo Sorokin in Boston ruled on May 19 that the airlines' "Northeast Alliance" broke antitrust law and ordered the companies to dissolve the arrangement within 30 days. "We've got a legal system that allows for appeal, and we're going to do that," Isom told the Bernstein Conference. JetBlue declined to comment. The U.S. Justice Department sued in 2021 to undo the alliance announced the previous year. It called it a "de facto merger" of American and JetBlue operations in Boston and New York that removed incentives to compete and would end up costing consumers an additional $700 million a year to fly out of the region's busy airports. "These two powerful carriers act as one entity in the northeast, allocating markets between them and replacing full-throated competition with broad cooperation," Sorokin wrote in his ruling, a rare court victory for President Joe Biden's administration and its hard line against corporate consolidation. American is the largest U.S. airline by fleet size and low-cost carrier JetBlue is the sixth largest. The airlines use the alliance to coordinate flights and pool revenue. Even as the Texas-based carrier prepares to appeal the ruling, Isom said it will have to work with the Justice Department and JetBlue to figure out what it does in the interim. American, which reiterated its full-year profit forecast Wednesday, doesn't expect the court ruling to have a material impact on its earnings. Isom said flights out of New York accounts for less than 5% of American's schedule. (Reporting by Rajesh Kumar Singh in Chicago and David Shepardson and Diane Bartz in Washington; Editing by Deepa Babington and Lisa Shumaker) Limassol, Cyprus - (NewMediaWire) - May 31, 2023 - (King NewsWire) - Aron Groups Broker, a leading retail broker for forex trading, has partnered with Brokeree Solutions to launch a social trading platform for its clients. Brokeree Solutions is a renowned technology provider for multi-asset brokers operating globally. Aron Groups Broker offers a wide range of advanced investment services to meet the needs of different types of traders. The company enables its clients to trade forex and offers an array of commodities including gold, cryptocurrencies, and crude oil. With the launch of the social trading services powered by Brokeree Solutions, Aron Groups Broker provides its clients with the cutting-edge ability to share and copy trades across multiple MetaTrader servers without any limitations. This new platform is yet another example of Aron Groups Broker's commitment to offering innovative and client-centric trading solutions. Farzad Vajihi, Aron Groups Broker's CEO stated, "We are excited to launch our new social trading platform powered by Brokeree Solutions. It's a game-changer for our clients, enabling them to take advantage of innovative social trading capabilities and enhance their trading strategies." "For several years we have noticed increasing demand on the social trading service in the MENA region," commented Victor Ivanov, the Regional Head of Business Development (EMEA). "We are glad to be the pioneers of this technology and welcome our new client that will have access to the Social Trading solution." Brokeree Solutions is a leading technology company specialising in turnkey solutions development, trading platform servicing, and consultation for retail brokers running MetaTrader 4 and 5. The company is renowned for its flagship Social Trading and PAMM investment platforms, and its extensive product portfolio covers almost every possible broker's request, including risk and liquidity management. Aron Groups Broker is a recognized leader in the financial industry, committed to innovation and client satisfaction. The company's mission is to become the top broker and financial service provider, dedicated to their clients' success. Aron Groups Broker has received numerous awards and accolades, including "Fastest Growing Broker" and "Retail Broker of the Year" at MENA 2022 and 2023, respectively. Media Contact Organization: Aron Markets LTD Contact Person: Danila Rogozin Website: https://arongroups.co/ Email: Danila.r@arongroups.co Address: 59 Agios Athamasios Avenue, D. VRACHIMIS BUILDING, Limassol, 4102, Cyprus City: Limassol Country: Cyprus (Bloomberg) -- Dutch chip gear firm ASM International NV said the impact on its sales from US semiconductor export controls on China is not a big deal amid strong demand for chips driven by artificial intelligence applications. Most Read from Bloomberg The generative AI boom of recent months, catalyzed by OpenAIs ChatGPT launch late last year, has made Nvidia Corp. a $1 trillion chipmaker and boosted expectations for semiconductor companies of all stripes. If you look at how much data is going to be generated in the next five, seven to 10 years, you need a lot of memory, ASM Chief Executive Officer Benjamin Loh said in an interview in Seoul. ChatGPT or generative AI needs eight times the memory of a normal Google search. Loh was in Seoul partly to lay the ground for the Almere-based company to ride the next big wave in the cyclical chip industry that is expected to come around 2025. A major producer of atomic layer deposition equipment thats crucial to produce advanced chips, ASM expects the chip market to recover starting next year and sales in 2025 to exceed those of 2022. The firm is planning to invest around $100 million to expand its research operations and facility in South Korea and hire an additional 200 staff in the country within three to five years. ASM, like its former affiliate and Dutch peer ASML Holding NV, is prevented from selling its most advanced chipmaking gear to China without government approval due to the restrictions on tech exports to China imposed by the US and its allies. The demand for emerging technologies is exemplified by the huge sales forecast from Nvidia, which supplies the best AI-training accelerators to power tools like ChatGPT. As a key machinery provider to Nvidias primary contract manufacturer Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., ASM has seen its shares gain more than 70% since the beginning of this year. Read: A Chip Empire 40 Years in the Making: Tech Daily Loh upheld ASMs previous guidance that the company will see limited impact from the China chip curbs, with no more than 4% of its total sales being affected. Its not a big deal. We cannot sell the most advanced type of equipment but a lot of other equipment is still not restricted and we can continue that trade with Chinese customers, the executive said. There will be other buyers for its premium products as long as chip demand continues to grow, he added. Loh said that some countries will now work with only select partners to mitigate supply disruptions in the future, but the chip supply chain remains highly globalized and it will be difficult for China and the US to completely decouple. Any country attempting to be completely self-sufficient would find that task very, very difficult. In recent days, American officials have also toned down their language on China following the imposition of the chip curbs and a controversy around an alleged Chinese spy balloon as part of their efforts to improve ties between the worlds two largest economies. In late April, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said the Biden administration is seeking to derisk, but not decouple, from China. Read: China, US Commerce Chiefs Trade Complaints, Plan More Talks --With assistance from Cagan Koc, Vlad Savov and Ville Heiskanen. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., May 31, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aviation Capital Group LLC ("ACG"), a premier global full-service aircraft lessor, today announced that Sylvia Li has joined the company as Vice President of Aircraft Trading (AT), based out of ACGs Dublin office, in Ireland. Li brings a wealth of experience to ACG and will play a crucial leadership role within the AT function, collaborating with the Senior Vice President and Head of AT to design and implement strategic portfolio management initiatives and seize new investment opportunities. Prior to joining ACG, Li served as the Senior Vice President of AT at BOC Aviation, based in its London office. Her extensive background in various roles over the past decade equipped her with valuable expertise and insights she brings to her new position at ACG. Li holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a major in finance and accounting from the University of Melbourne in Australia. "We are thrilled to welcome Sylvia to the aircraft trading team," said Rob Downes, Senior Vice President and Head of Aircraft Trading at Aviation Capital Group. "Sylvias exceptional experience from her tenure at BOC Aviation will greatly contribute to our ongoing efforts to develop our aircraft trading business as a core strategic pillar for ACG." Originally from Beijing and a native Mandarin speaker, Li brings a diverse perspective to her new role. "ACG has a great industry reputation, and Im looking forward to leveraging my past experiences to take it to even greater heights in the future," said Li. To learn about open positions at ACG, visit: https://www.aviationcapitalgroup.com/careers/. About Aviation Capital Group: Aviation Capital Group is one of the worlds premier full-service aircraft asset managers with approximately 480 owned, managed and committed aircraft as of March 31, 2023 leased to roughly 95 airlines in approximately 45 countries. It was founded in 1989 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tokyo Century Corporation. Follow ACG on LinkedIn, and for more information, visit www.aviationcapitalgroup.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230531006006/en/ Contacts Media Relations: Elizabeth Stevens, MediaRelations@AviationCapital.com Investor Relations: Matthew Novell, InvestorRelations@AviationCapital.com (Bloomberg) -- Baidu Inc. has set aside 1 billion yuan ($140 million) to fund Chinese startups that explore generative AI, joining a global investment wave keen on riding a frenzy around ChatGPT-like services. Most Read from Bloomberg Chinas internet search leader will use the pool to incubate projects built atop its Ernie AI model, in deployments as high as 10 million yuan apiece, Baidu said in a statement Wednesday. Venture investors including IDG Capital will take and judge pitches from founders, who then build demo products before receiving a verdict on whether they get seed funding, Baidu said. The incubation program twins one of Chinas most prominent startup investment firms with the perceived domestic leader in AI development. Its another example of Chinas headlong rush into AI investment, after OpenAIs ChatGPT debuted to a media firestorm in November. Baidu delivered the countrys first major riposte to ChatGPT, called Ernie Bot, igniting a race by rivals from Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. to Tencent Holdings Ltd. and SenseTime Group Inc. to unveil rival platforms. Baidu and its VC partners will examine pitches from prospective founders wholl use Ernie to build out their own services. Large-language models will give birth to AI-native applications, billionaire Baidu founder Robin Li said at an event last week when he announced an upgrade to Ernie. Baidu will become the first company to rework all of its products. Its not about integrating or accessing AI. Its about rework and restructuring. Its still too early to tell whether Ernie Bot could rise to the level of killer apps like Tencents ubiquitous WeChat. Chinas top internet regulator has said it will require security reviews of generative AI tools before they can be put into action. And US sanctions have deprived Chinese tech firms of the best chips to train their AI models, which could widen gaps between services like Ernie Bot and their Western counterparts. In March, Li introduced Ernie Bot using a prerecorded demo, underwhelming investors and analysts who were hoping for livelier interaction. The Chinese chatbot subsequently scored positive reviews among selected testers, but its shares are still down roughly 20% from a February high. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Baltika Despite a challenging economic environment, there are several areas where developments are moving in the right direction for the Group. Processes related to cost optimization, efficiency improvement, and profitability enhancement continue, and decisions made in previous periods are already having a positive impact on the Group's financial results. The Group's total sales revenue for the first quarter across all channels was 2,160 thousand euros, increasing by 4% compared to the same period last year (Q1 2022: 2,075 thousand euros). The first-quarter gross profit was 1,150 thousand euros (Q1 2022: 849 thousand euros), representing a 35% increase compared to the same period last year. The gross profit margin for this quarter improved by 12 percentage points compared to the same time last year and was 53%. The Group's operating loss in the first quarter was 586 thousand euros, decreasing by 54% compared to the same period last year. In the first quarter, e-commerce sales accounted for 12% (Q1 2022: 16%) of the Group's total revenue. In the first quarter of the year, we continued working on updating our network of stores: In January, we closed our Ivo Nikkolo store in Vilnius Akropolis shopping center in Lithuania due to the end of the lease agreement. The new Ivo Nikkolo concept store opened in November 2022 in Vilnius Panorama shopping center in Lithuania has been well-received by our former Vilnius Akropolis center customers. In February, we reopened the Ivo Nikkolo brand store located at Suur-Karja 14 address. The store was closed in November 2020 when the legendary location of the Suur-Karja street store became commercially challenging due to the absence of tourists during the COVID pandemic. In March, we opened a new Ivo Nikkolo concept store in Latvia. We replaced our old Ivo Nikkolo store in Galleria Riga shopping center with a new Ivo Nikkolo conept store. In February, the Group began preparations for entering the Business-to-Business (B2B) market. In the B2B segment, the Group's focus is on finding business partners for wholesale and consignment sales both within and outside the Baltics. The goal of entering the B2B segment is to support the growth of Ivo Nikkolo product sales, increase brand awareness, and stabilize the Group's liquidity position. The Group has continued its commitment to addressing environmental changes. At the beginning of January, we joined the packaging circular system called Tango for e-commerce platforms. The aim of joining the system is to reduce the amount of single-use packaging waste generated from shopping on our e-commerce platform. Our customers now have the option to order their products in reusable packaging called Low imPACK and receive a deposit refund upon returning the packaging. Among clothing retail companies, the Group is the first to have joined the e-commerce packaging circular system with its Ivo Nikkolo brand e-store. The Group's marketing and general administrative expenses in the first quarter were 1,870 thousand euros, decreasing by 15% compared to the same period last year (Q1 2022: 2,193 thousand euros). The Group has been able to effectively reduce marketing and general administrative expenses through consistent cost-cutting measures, efficiency improvements, and the closure of unprofitable stores. The Group's management evaluates the results of the first quarter as positive. The Group managed to increase the sales revenue of Ivo Nikkolo products and significantly improve the gross profitability of the Group. The consistent increase in efficiency and the closure of unprofitable stores have gradually improved the Group's financial indicators. Increasing efficiency will continue to be a focus for the Group going forward. The Group remains committed to its chosen strategy and continues its implementation by: Developing modern and high-quality products in its womens fashion brand, Ivo Nikkolo, which are available in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, as well as through the Groups e-commerce platform in other European countries. Continuing to enhance its omnichannel strategy and the functionality of its e-commerce platform. Opening new Ivo Nikkolo concept stores in the Baltics. Exploring and developing new business opportunities both within and outside the Baltics. Ongoing quarter The group's sales revenue for the period of April 1, 2023, to May 29, 2023, was 1,518 thousand euros, remaining at a similar level compared to the same period last year (April 1, 2023, to May 29, 2023: 1,532 thousand euros). The retail sales efficiency (sales per square meter per month, EUR) was 114 EUR, increasing by 16% compared to the same period last year. In April, Ivo Nikkolo presented a contemporary feminine clothing and accessory collection at two of the largest fashion events in the Baltics, namely Tallinn Fashion Week (April 1, 2023) and Riga Fashion Week (April 20, 2023). On May 10, 2023, we closed our Ivo Nikkolo store in Klaipeda Akropolis shopping center in Lithuania due to the expiration of the lease agreement. Consolidated statement of financial position March 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 ASSETS Current assets Cash and cash equivalents 129 222 Trade and other receivables 3,165 3,285 Inventories 2,066 1,960 Total current assets 5,359 5,467 Non-current assets Deferred income tax asset 91 91 Trade and other receivables 2,796 2,756 Other non-current assets 111 107 Property, plant, and equipment 1,364 1,269 Right-of-use assets 4,066 4,596 Intangible assets 567 586 Total non-current assets 8,994 9,405 TOTAL ASSETS 14,353 14,872 LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Current liabilities Borrowings 3,275 3,096 Lease liabilities 1,493 1,813 Trade and other payables 2,405 1,741 Total current liabilities 7,173 6,650 Non-current liabilities Borrowings 1,061 1,070 Lease liabilities 2,908 3,296 Trade and other payables 143 147 Total non-current liabilities 4,113 4,513 TOTAL LIABILITIES 11,286 11,163 EQUITY Share capital at par value 5,408 5,408 Reserves 4,431 4,431 Retained earnings (-losses) -6,772 -6,130 TOTAL EQUITY 3,067 3,709 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 14,353 14,872 Consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income Q1 2023 Q1 2022 Revenue 2,160 2,075 Cost of goods sold -1,010 -1,226 Gross profit 1,150 849 Distribution costs -1,602 -1,831 Administrative and general expenses -268 -362 Other operating income (-expense) 133 82 Operating profit (-loss) -586 -1,262 Interest income 39 0 Interest expense -94 -83 Profit (-loss) before income tax -641 -1,345 Income tax expense 0 0 Total comprehensive income (-loss) for the period -641 -1,345 Basic earnings per share from net profit (-loss) for the period, EUR -0.01 -0.02 Diluted earnings per share from net profit (-loss) for the period, EUR -0.01 -0.02 Brigitta Kippak Chairman of The Management Board, CEO brigitta.kippak@baltikagroup.com Attachment The Best Places To Live On a $50,000 Salary in Every State Django / Getty Images If you earn $50,000 a year in San Francisco or New York City, you undoubtedly will need a roommate -- or three -- to make ends meet. But in many cities in the United States, $50,000 a year is plenty to live on. Find Out: 15 Cities Where Houses Are the Best Bargains Right Now Learn More: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch So what sort of enclaves against high costs are out there? GOBankingRates compiled the places in each state that are best suited to someone earning $50,000 a year -- with a cost of living that will allow them to save for the future and cover costs in the present. The study identified towns with at least 5,000 households and a median income between $45,000 and $50,000 a year using data from the U.S. Census Bureau, then looked at the basic cost of living as sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The city with the most left over from $50,000 after covering expenses in each state was selected. For some states, income restrictions were relaxed, and no data for Alaska was available. Nearly every state in the U.S. has options on where you can live for less than $50,000. Take a look and see where you could live in your area to stretch your salary that much further. traveler1116 / Getty Images Montgomery, Alabama Total Annual Necessities: $21,441 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $28,559 Median Income: $49,989 Housing Market 2023: Prices Are Now So High That Banks Are Losing Money on Mortgages I'm a Real Estate Agent: Here Are the 6 Cities Where You Should Avoid Buying a Home This Summer dszc / iStock.com Tuscon, Arizona Total Annual Necessities: $26,172 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $23,828 Median Income: $48,058 Take Our Poll: Are You Concerned About the Safety of Your Money in Your Bank Accounts? clintspencer / iStock.com Paragould, Arkansas Total Annual Necessities: $20,066 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $29,934 Median Income: $49,977 Pictured: St. Francis River in Arkansas Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons CC-BY-SA 3 Twentynine Palms, California Total Annual Necessities: $24,283 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $25,717 Median Income: $46,887 Jonathan Ross / Getty Images/iStockphoto Clifton, Colorado Total Annual Necessities: $25,003 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $24,997 Median Income: $49,350 *Pictured: Aspen, Colorado DenisTangneyJr / iStock.com Waterbury, Connecticut Total Annual Necessities: $26,347 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $23,653 Median Income: $48,787 See Our List: 100 Most Influential Money Experts benkrut / Getty Images/iStockphoto Dover, Delaware Total Annual Necessities: $25,698 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $24,302 Median Income: $51,073 Michael Warren / Getty Images/iStockphoto Silver Springs Shores, Florida Total Annual Necessities: $22,414 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $27,586 Median Income: $47,658 Sean Pavone/iStockPhoto / iStock.com Hinesville, Georgia Total Annual Necessities: $21,583 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $28,417 Median Income: $49,363 *Pictured: Savannah, Georgia. ejs9 / Getty Images/iStockphoto Hilo, Hawaii Total Annual Necessities: $36,400 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $13,600 Median Income: $70,356 Read More: 14 Ways to Invest That Don't Involve the Stock Market Gillfoto / Wikimedia Commons Mountain Home, Idaho Total Annual Necessities: $23,730 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $26,270 Median Income: $45,652 Gil Lebois / Wikimedia Commons Decatur, Illinois Total Annual Necessities: $19,170 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $30,830 Median Income: $45,111 Sean Pavone / Getty Images/iStockphoto New Castle, Indiana Total Annual Necessities: $18,287 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $31,713 Median Income: $46,112 *Pictured: Indianapolis, Indiana. pabradyphoto / Getty Images/iStockphoto Ottumwa, Iowa Total Annual Necessities: $19,172 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $30,828 Median Income: $48,198 I'm a Financial Planning Expert: Here Are 5 Things You Should Never Spend Money on If You Want To Be Rich Pictured: Des Moines, Iowa Sean Pavone / Getty Images/iStockphoto Great Bend, Kansas Total Annual Necessities: $19,201 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $30,799 Median Income: $48,465 Pictured: Wichita, Kansas JT Crawford / Getty Images/iStockphoto Madisonville, Kentucky Total Annual Necessities: $19,493 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $30,507 Median Income: $46,816 Pictured: Paducah, Kentucky. Shutterstock.com Lake Charles, Louisiana Total Annual Necessities: $23,031 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $26,969 Median Income: $49,913 jiawangkun / Shutterstock.com Bangor, Maine Total Annual Necessities: $23,706 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $26,294 Median Income: $49,652 I'm a Financial Advisor: These Are the Worst Money Mistakes I See People Make Eric Fischer / Wikimedia Commons CC-BY-SA 2 Salisbury, Maryland Total Annual Necessities: $22,569 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $27,431 Median Income: $48,310 travelview / Shutterstock.com North Adams, Massachusetts Total Annual Necessities: $23,307 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $26,693 Median Income: $48,575 Pictured: Pittsfield, Massachusetts jimfeng / Getty Images/iStockphoto Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Total Annual Necessities: $20,303 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $29,697 Median Income: $45,905 Steve Cukrov / Shutterstock.com Hibbing, Minnesota Total Annual Necessities: $19,857 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $30,143 Median Income: $49,710 Pictured: Austin, Minnesota DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto Gautier, Mississippi Total Annual Necessities: $22,001 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $27,999 Median Income: $49,497 Stimulus 2023: Updates To Know Now Pictured: Tupelo, Mississippi amolson7 / Getty Images/iStockphoto St. Ann, Missouri Total Annual Necessities: $20,278 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $29,722 Median Income: $49,358 Pictured: St. Louis, Missouri leezsnow / Getty Images/iStockphoto Butte-Silver Bow, Montana Total Annual Necessities: $21,867 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $28,133 Median Income: $50,661 Pictured: Great Falls, Montana ron99 / Shutterstock.com Beatrice, Nebraska Total Annual Necessities: $21,439 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $28,561 Median Income: $45,858 Pictured: Hastings, Nebraska CrackerClips Stock Media / Shutterstock.com Pahrump, Nevada Total Annual Necessities: $26,752 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $23,248 Median Income: $53,743 Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock.com Claremont, New Hampshire Total Annual Necessities: $22,123 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $27,877 Median Income: $46,414 Good To Know: How Much You Need To Live Comfortably in 50 Major US Cities EQRoy / Shutterstock.com Lindenwold, New Jersey Total Annual Necessities: $23,776 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $26,224 Median Income: $48,454 Pictured: Millville, New Jersey DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images Roswell, New Mexico Total Annual Necessities: $19,375 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $30,625 Median Income: $46,034 Songquan Deng / Shutterstock.com Massena, New York Total Annual Necessities: $20,074 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $29,926 Median Income: $46,894 Carl Lewis / Wikimedia Commons Rocky Mount, North Carolina Total Annual Necessities: $20,739 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $29,261 Median Income: $46,396 Zelle Scams on Facebook Marketplace: How To Recognize and Avoid Them Daniel M. Silva / Shutterstock.com Jamestown, North Dakota Total Annual Necessities: $22,085 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $27,915 Median Income: $49,038 Sean Pavone / Getty Images/iStockphoto Niles, Ohio Total Annual Necessities: $18,340 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $31,660 Median Income: $45,590 Pictured: Cleveland, Ohio DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto Shawnee, Oklahoma Total Annual Necessities: $19,500 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $30,500 Median Income: $47,649 Pictured: Lawton, Oklahoma Kyle Gibson / Getty Images/iStockphoto Altamont, Oregon Total Annual Necessities: $23,794 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $26,206 Median Income: $49,906 $2,000 Quarter? Check Your Pockets Before You Use This 2004 Coin *Pictured: Coos Bay, Oregon peeterv / Getty Images/iStockphoto Altoona, Pennsylvania Total Annual Necessities: $20,134 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $29,866 Median Income: $46,010 Pictured: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images Woonsocket, Rhode Island Total Annual Necessities: $27,956 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $22,044 Median Income: $48,822 Kruck20 / Getty Images/iStockphoto Spartanburg, South Carolina Total Annual Necessities: $22,143 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $27,857 Median Income: $45,228 Pictured: Downtown Columbia, South Carolina Drew S. Palmquist / Wikimedia Commons Public Domain Huron, South Dakota Total Annual Necessities: $20,175 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $29,825 Median Income: $51,206 How To Buy ChatGPT Stock: Your 2023 Guide to AI Investing Shutterstock.com Dyersburg, Tennessee Total Annual Necessities: $19,376 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $30,624 Median Income: $45,974 Pictured: Chattanooga, Tennessee DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images Plainview, Texas Total Annual Necessities: $18,899 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $31,101 Median Income: $45,526 Pictured: Lubbock, Texas DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto Logan, Utah Total Annual Necessities: $27,162 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $22,838 Median Income: $46,761 Pictured: Ogden, Utah Shutterstock.com Rutland, Vermont Total Annual Necessities: $25,555 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $24,445 Median Income: $51,868 Learn: Is Tesla's $40K Electric Car Really a Bargain Now That the Price Has Been Slashed 6 Times? Pictured: Burlington, Vermont Shutterstock.com Waynesboro, Virginia Total Annual Necessities: $23,299 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $26,701 Median Income: $47,238 Pictured: Richmond, Virginia ChrisBoswell / Getty Images/iStockphoto Yakima, Washington Total Annual Necessities: $25,843 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $24,157 Median Income: $50,673 DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto Fairmont, West Virginia Total Annual Necessities: $21,542 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $28,458 Median Income: $47,618 Ben Baeb / Shutterstock.com Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin Total Annual Necessities: $20,962 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $29,038 Median Income: $46,644 Pictured: Green Bay, Wisconsin DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images/iStockphoto Laramie, Wyoming Total Annual Necessities: $27,471 $50K Minus Total Annual Necessities: $22,529 Median Income: $45,299 More From GOBankingRates Joel Anderson contributed to the reporting for this article. Photo disclaimer: Photos are for illustrative purposes only. As a result, some of the images may not reflect the exact towns listed. Methodology: GOBankingRates determined the best places to live on a $50,000 salary in each state by analyzing cities along these criteria: (1) a minimum of 5,000 households, sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2021 American Community Survey; (2) a median household income between $45,000 to $50,000, sourced from th, U.S. Census Bureau's 2021 American Community Survey; (3) itemized cost-of-living index for groceries, housing, utilities, transportation, healthcare and miscellaneous expenditures, based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2021 Consumer Expenditure Survey (latest full year dataset) by income level ($40,000 to $49,999), which were adjusted to each city's local cost of living, sourced from Sperling's Best Places. In order to qualify as a "best" city, the total cost of living expenditures could not exceed $50,000, and the city with the lowest overall total cost-of-living expenditures was declared the best. For Delaware, Hawaii, Maryland, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington and Wyoming income restrictions were relaxed. No data for Alaska was available and thus the state was excluded. All data was compiled on and up to date as of May 18, 2023. This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: The Best Places To Live On a $50,000 Salary in Every State Billionaire hedge-fund manager Bill Ackman offered JPMorgan Chase (JPM) CEO Jamie Dimon a glowing endorsement to run for US president in the 2024 presidential election. We need an exemplary business, financial, and global leader to manage through what is likely to be a critically important decade for our country in determining our destiny, Ackman said on Twitter Wednesday. Jamie Dimon is that leader, added Ackman, who runs a hedge fund called Pershing Square and made his name as an activist investor. The endorsement comes after Dimon admitted in an interview with Bloomberg early Wednesday that the thought of running for public office had crossed his mind even though he is quite happy running the countrys largest bank. Jamie Dimon is one of the world's most respected business leaders. Politically he is a centrist. He is pro-business and pro-free enterprise, but also supportive of well-designed social programs and rational tax policies that can help the less fortunate. He is extremely smart, Bill Ackman (@BillAckman) May 31, 2023 I love my country, and maybe one day Ill serve my country in one capacity or another but I love what I do, he said. Dimon also mused on life after JPMorgan at the banks annual investor day on May 22, when asked if he still had the same drive for the job. He said he did. I am not going to change, he said. Im not going to play golf. I cant do this forever, I know that. But my intensity is the same. I think when I don't have that kind of intensity, I should leave. Dimon has frequently been linked over the years to top roles in Washington. During President Obamas time in office, Dimon was frequently mentioned as a possible Treasury Secretary. Warren Buffett even offered his endorsement in 2012, saying Dimon would be the best pick for that job. In Ackmans Twitter post Wednesday, the investor said Dimon could beat President Biden in the primary election and former President Donald Trump at the general election, but he needs to start now and build name recognition among the broad electorate. Polls have shown Biden with a consistently small advantage over Trump. JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File) This will be one of the most important elections in our country's history. Jamie is more likely to run if we build a groundswell of support for him. Let's do our civic duty and make it happen, said Ackman. Dimon in 2023 has been at the center of a national banking crisis for the second time in 15 years. He led an effort to provide deposits to First Republic after it stumbled in March and then purchased the bulk of its operations after US regulators seized the San Francisco lender. In 2008, Dimon acted twice to help stabilize the financial system. JPMorgan purchased New York investment bank Bear Stearns in March of that year, getting a $29 billion backstop from the federal government, and then Seattles Washington Mutual in September of 2008. There is nothing more for him to achieve at JPM, Ackman said Wednesday. He has already been crowned the world's best banker. Click here for the latest stock market news and in-depth analysis, including events that move stocks Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance (Bloomberg) -- Indias government is poised to deny crucial funding for billionaire Anil Agarwals chip venture, a setback for a $19 billion push to make semiconductors in the country. Most Read from Bloomberg The government is likely to tell the venture between Agarwals Vedanta Resources Ltd. and Taiwans Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. it wont get incentives to make 28-nanometer chips, people familiar with the matter said. The venture has applied for such assistance, potentially worth billions of dollars, but hasnt met the criteria set by the government. While Vedanta and Hon Hai can apply again, a rejection would mean delays for Agarwals ambition to establish Indias first major chipmaking operation, even as his metals and mining conglomerate struggles to reduce a heavy debt load. Nine months after Agarwal announced the chip partnership to build Indias own Silicon Valley, the project is yet to find a technology partner or license manufacturing-grade technology for the 28nm chips it was seeking to build, the people said. At least one of those steps is needed for the venture to get government assistance. Vedanta and Hon Hai, the assembler of a bulk of the worlds iPhones, have no previous significant experience in chipmaking. Their difficulty in finding production-ready technology underscores how hard it is to set up new semiconductor plants, massive complexes that cost billions to build and require very specialized expertise to run. A representative for Vedanta said the company was awaiting the outcome of its application from the government. Hon Hai, widely known as Foxconn, didnt respond to an email seeking comment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged $10 billion to woo chipmakers to India, promising his administration will bear half the cost of setting up all semiconductor sites. Vedanta has previously said its partner Hon Hai had secured production-grade, high-volume 40nm technology and development-grade technology for relatively more sophisticated 28nm chips. Thats likely not enough for the government to award the funding, as the venture had applied to actually produce 28nm chips, the people said. The federal government may soon ask Vedanta to submit a new application for financial support to make 40nm chips, and give a revised capital expenditure estimate. Such a bid could be considered after New Delhi reopens the application process for incentives, part of a push to lure prospective chipmakers into the country thats yielded little success so far. Indias technology ministry didnt respond to a request for comment. Vedanta had previously submitted a capital expenditure estimate of $10 billion to India. Financial help from the state is crucial for Agarwal, whose Vedanta is working to reduce gross borrowings of $6.8 billion as of April. Vedanta has been in talks with STMicroelectronics NV to license chip fabrication technology, Bloomberg News reported previously. It has yet to publicly name a partner. --With assistance from Divya Patil and Debby Wu. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- It took Jaime Gilinski 561 days, and eight tries, but in the end he got his wish: wresting control of a century-old food conglomerate from Colombias most powerful business group. Most Read from Bloomberg And if the process of wearing down the tight-knit group of Medellin-based families was fitful and tortured, it was also immensely rewarding for Gilinski and his partners in Abu Dhabi. In taking control of foodmaker Grupo Nutresa SA, theyve scored a profit of nearly 100% on the $2.7 billion they invested, capping off a coup that has upended the sleepy business community here and converted Gilinski in the eyes of many into a corporate raider villain in the mode of Carl Icahn. Lea la nota en espanol. Gilinski, who is worth an estimated $4.4 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, unveiled his plans back in Nov. 2021 to buy a majority stake in Nutresa, Colombias largest food maker. Considered an outsider to Medellins business elite, Gilinski splits his time between homes in London, Miami and Colombia. The company was controlled through a web of cross-holdings by the Grupo Empresarial Antioqueno (GEA), including the financial services firm Grupo Sura and cement maker Grupo Argos. To untangle the structure, he began launching tenders to buy up stakes in all three companies. The moves sparked wild moves in the shares and startled the business executives behind the GEA who saw their long-running control of the firms at risk. At times it seemed that his strategy had backfired as the tender offers fell short. But after a sudden truce, Gilinski, 65, is now poised to take ownership of Nutresa, effectively dismantle the GEA, and come away with a massive windfall. He did so by partnering with Abu Dhabis royal family to build leverage in two of the companies and then using that position to pull off an all-stock deal that will give him a controlling stake in Nutresa worth $5.2 billion. The cross-holding structure, set to protect GEA companies from outsiders, ended up, in our view, being beneficial for Gilinski, said Daniel Guardiola, a strategist at Banco BTG Pactual in Bogota. It allowed this family to inflict pressure to the holding companies in different battlefields, which ultimately prepared the ground for a negotiation and forced GEA to give in and lose control of Nutresa. Details are expected to be announced June 15 with trading of the shares suspended until then. But as of now, the market capitalization of Nutresa, which produces and exports food products across Latin America, has surged to $6 billion from just $2.5 billion when Gilinski made his plans public. The memorandum of understanding signed with the GEA will give him and the royal family a stake of at least 87% in Nutresa in return for the roughly 40% stake they amassed in Sura being returned to the GEA. The buyout strategy over the past 18 months unfolded against a tough backdrop, with Colombia electing its first leftist president and the peso slipping to record lows. Still, shares in Nutresa and Grupo Sura have risen 166% and 89%, respectively, since Gilinskis first bid compared with a 19% drop for Colombias benchmark stock index over that time, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. For Gilinski, who has worked closely on the deals with his son, Gabriel, its been the most public gamble of his career. Nutresa is now poised to be his top holding. This is a great deal, said German Cristancho, head analyst at Davivienda Corredores brokerage. Theyll end up with an attractive company, having paid a good price. In total, Gilinski and the royal family jointly have invested $1.2 billion of cash, with another $1.5 billion coming from a low-interest credit line from First Abu Dhabi Bank, according to a person with direct knowledge of the matter who asked not to be named discussing private talks. After its tender offers, the takeover attempts became locked in a legal battle in Colombian courts that threatened to drag on for years. The Gilinskis and members of the GEA started hammering out a deal last month, the person said. Gilinski has said he and his partners see massive potential for Nutresa to expand internationally. The company is the market leader in Colombia in a handful of categories, including ice cream, hamburgers and crackers. Founded a century ago as a chocolate maker, Nutresa sells food in 18 countries, operates 47 production plants and employs nearly 46,000 people. Income before some expenses rose to roughly $450 million last year, an increase of 13% from 2021, on $4 billion of sales, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The plan for Nutresa includes investing in new plants and expanding the companys brands for cold cuts, chocolates, coffee and cookies to emerging markets, including India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, the Middle East and parts of Africa, the person said. The company may eventually list Nutresas stock in Abu Dhabi, the person said. Nutresa fits in one of the global verticals for the Royal Group an investment vehicle for Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan. In a rare interview in November 2021, Gilinski told Bloomberg News he expected a long-term partnership with the Abu Dhabi royal family with potentially more deals to follow if the Nutresa takeover was successful. We have to first crawl and then walk and then run, he said at the time. After graduating from Harvard Business School, Gilinski returned to Colombia in the 1980s. Along with his father, who had a financial company, he bought the local branches of international bank BCCI in 1991. Three years later, the family, along with a group of more than 80 institutional investors including George Soros, bought Banco de Colombia from the government in what was the biggest privatization in the country at the time. They later sold the stake in what has become Bancolombia SA, the countrys largest bank. Some analysts speculated that Gilinskis ultimate target in his advance against the GEA was again Bancolombia, of which Sura owns around 46% of the common shares. In 2003, he bought Banco Sudameris, which now operates as Banco GNB Sudameris. It also has operations in Peru and Paraguay that were acquired from HSBC Holdings PLC in 2012. In 2019, he bought a stake in UK-based lender Metro Bank Plc. His multibillion dollar empire also spans media and real estate sectors, including ownership of a Bogota news magazine, Four Seasons hotels in Colombia and a massive development on a former air force base near the Panama Canal. The family has experience in the food industry after starting snack company Yupi. Following a successful series of good deals in the past, controlling Nutresa would be without a doubt the largest and by far the most important deal so far for this family, BTGs Guardiola said. (Adds stock performance in 10th paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. An ER doctor and crypto entrepreneur has been found dead in Arkansasmore than a week after he went missing in Missouri. Dr. John Forsyth was the founder of Onfo, which promised to offer users decentralized cryptocurrency that could be earned through network mining. And back in 2020, a Forbes profile named him as a "Bitcoin millionaire" who had found fortune as an early adopter during his math degreeholding on to his crypto through multiple halvings. Dr. Forsyth's day job was working in the emergency room of Mercy Hospital in Cassville, Mo., but loved ones raised the alarm after he had failed to turn up for a shift on May 21. His younger brother Richardwho was also involved in Onfotold The Daily Beast: "He wouldn't miss a shift even if his eyeballs were hanging out of their sockets. It was an immediate red flag." From 'Bitcoin Billionaires' to SEC Charges: A Brief Crypto History of the Winklevoss Twins Fears grew for the welfare of the 49-year-old, a father of seven, when his wallet, passport, and briefcase were found in his unlocked car near a 90-acre aquatic park. Dr. Forsyth's cell phones were also abandoned inside an RV he often parked outside the hospital so he could be close to his patients. Searches by law enforcement had spanned a nine-mile radiuswith loved ones desperately appealing for information on his whereabouts. South African Crypto Founders Vanish, $3.6 Billion Allegedly Missing "My brother has now been missing for a week. I'm grieving, I'm afraid, and it feels like the world has tipped into sheer chaos," his sister Tiffany Andelin Forsyth wrote on Facebook on Monday. "I'm so afraid he's just gone. Please don't let this be how this ends. The hole that will leave in my life will be empty forever." Dr. Forsyth's brother said his divorce had recently been finalized and he was newly engaged. On Facebook, his fiancee described him as the love of her life. Richard added thatwhile he and his brother had "made some enemies" in the crypto spacenothing had seemed unusual in the run-up to his disappearance. Local media has reported that Forsyth's body was discovered with an apparent gunshot wound in a lake in northwest Arkansas. The police are yet to provide further details on the circumstances surrounding Dr. Forsyth's deathbut say foul play does not appear to be a factor. The buzzy Bitcoin protocol Ordinals achieved a sizable new milestone on Monday, just days after its creator signaled that he would take a step back. But Casey Rodarmor will not disappear entirely, the projects new caretaker told Decrypt. Launched by Rodarmor in January, Ordinals allows for the creation of NFT-like assets on Bitcoin called inscriptions, where unique bits of data can be assigned to satoshisthe smallest unit of currency that Bitcoin can be divided into. Less than 660,000 inscriptions existed two months ago, but Ordinals popularity has grown rapidly of late due to experimental tokens that can be built on Bitcoin using the protocol. The total number of inscriptions made surged past 10 million on Monday, according to a Dune dashboard. Passing Fad? Bitcoin Ordinals Inscriptions Just Hit a New Milestone Several cryptocurrency exchanges have rolled out support for BRC-20 tokenswhich are modeled after ERC-20 tokens like PepeCoin on Ethereumwhile NFT marketplaces like Magic Eden have moved to accommodate inscriptions as well. Despite the growing attention, Rodarmor tweeted over the weekend that he would step down as the protocols lead maintainer, handing over the project's reins to a pseudonymous developer who goes by Raph. I haven't been able to give [Ordinals] the attention it deserves, Rodarmor tweeted, adding that Raph had agreed to step up as lead maintainer. I haven't been able to give ord the attention it deserves, so I am pleased to announce that @raphjaph has agreed to step up as lead maintainer! Raph is an impoverished student, and his work on ord will be entirely funded by donations. If you can, please consider donating! Casey (@rodarmor) May 28, 2023 Similar to how Bitcoin core developers are supported through acts of charity, Rodarmor said that Raphs work on [Ordinals] will be entirely funded by donations. Even though Rodarmors title has changed, he will still be involved in the project, Raph told Decrypt in an interview, explaining that Rodarmor just doesn't want to be [Ordinals] public face at the moment. Bitcoins pseudonymous creator Satoshi Nakamoto famously stepped away once his creation had started to catch on. But Raphs new role includes regular phone calls with Rodarmor, he said. Rodarmor did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Decrypt. Raph, who said he is based in Germany and is currently pursuing an educational degree, said his role will be part-time. But as the projects lead maintainer, hell have greater control over maintaining the codebase for Ordinals on Github, where the protocols most recent software can be downloaded. Casey was a little bit of a bottleneck because I always had to wait for his approval on code review and stuff like that, Raph said. He's still doing stuff on GitHub as well. He just wants to make me his shield. Ethereum NFTs Can Be Migrated to Bitcoin, But There's a Catch Raph pointed out that the projects codebase has shifted from Rodarmors personal GitHub to an account that belongs to Ordinals as its own organization. And he noted hes not the only one who can release new code or make changes. While Ordinals has attracted talent from across the digital assets industry and perked the interest of companies like MicroStrategy, the protocol has not been embraced entirely by the Bitcoin community. Some Bitcoiners are concerned by the high transaction fees that BRC-20 tokens have caused, for example. One area that Raph said he is shifting his focus to over the next few weeks is documentation, explaining that there will be a community-led effort to make materials available on GitHub that can better help people understand Ordinals technical elements. Raph said he is no stranger to Ordinals or Rodarmor, however, having worked on the project for almost 10 monthslong before the protocol ever went live. I am very familiar with the codebase. And, more importantly, I'm very familiar with how Casey likes to do stuff, Raph said. That's kind of why I was the perfect fit for this role. American civil aviation and Boeing investigators search through the debris at the scene of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 302 plane crash, near the town of Bishoftu, southeast of Addis Ababa By David Shepardson (Reuters) - A U.S. judge ruled late on Tuesday that relatives of those killed in a 2019 Boeing 737 MAX Ethiopian Airlines crash may seek compensation for pain and suffering of passengers before the plane hit the ground. Boeing in 2021 agreed to acknowledge liability for compensatory damages in lawsuits filed by families of the 157 people killed in the fatal Ethiopian 737 MAX crash. In February, the U.S. planemaker sought to exclude any evidence of pain and suffering that passengers may have experienced before the crash. "There is sufficient evidence to support a reasonable inference that these passengers experienced pre-impact fright and terror, and that experience is part of the 'process or manner of death,'" U.S. District Judge Jorge Alonso in Illinois wrote in his ruling, rejecting Boeing's motion. Boeing did not immediately comment. Alonso added a jury could reasonably infer from evidence that the passengers "perceived that they were going to crash, horrifically, to their certain death." A total of 346 people were killed in two fatal Boeing 737 MAX crashes - including the earlier October 2018 Lion Air crash in Indonesia. The Ethiopian Airlines crash prompted the worldwide grounding of the MAX in March 2019 for 20 months, costing Boeing more than $20 billion. As a result of the 2021 agreement, lawyers for the Ethiopian Airlines victims agreed not to seek punitive damages and Boeing did not challenge the lawsuits being filed in Illinois. As of early May, cases involving around 80 victims had been settled leaving around 75 pending. The first of a series of trials is set for June 20. Lawyers for the victims said in a court filing "there is no dispute that passengers and crew members were conscious and fully aware that the plane was plummeting before it actually crashed at nearly 600 mph." U.S. District Judge Reed O'Connor in Texas separately ruled last year the 346 killed in the 737 MAX crashes were legally "crime victims" and wrote "Boeings crime may properly be considered the deadliest corporate crime in U.S. history." A 2021 U.S. Justice Department agreement with the planemaker gave Boeing immunity from criminal prosecution over fraud conspiracy charges related to the plane's flawed design. In return, Boeing paid $2.5 billion in fines and compensation to the government, airlines and a crash-victim fund. (Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Christian Schmollinger) Boston Beer (SAM) shares ended the last trading session 5.4% higher at $334.93. The jump came on an impressive volume with a higher-than-average number of shares changing hands in the session. This compares to the stock's 0.5% gain over the past four weeks. Boston Beers stock rally is a result of upgrades by some analysts due to the recent boycott of rival Anheuser-Busch InBevs Bud Light and other brands by some consumers. Analysts believe that the fall in demand for Anheuser-Busch InBevs Bud Light could be beneficial for Boston Beer, with sales for the Truly brand picking up. Analysts cite an improvement in Boston Beers market share in May due to the incident, aiding the companys depletions. Moreover, SAM's focus on innovation to revive the Truly brand and expand Twisted Teas potential bodes well. Continued focus on pricing, and growth of non-beer categories alongside brand development bodes well. This brewer is expected to post quarterly earnings of $3.29 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -23.7%. Revenues are expected to be $595.17 million, down 3.4% from the year-ago quarter. Earnings and revenue growth expectations certainly give a good sense of the potential strength in a stock, but empirical research shows that trends in earnings estimate revisions are strongly correlated with near-term stock price movements. For Boston Beer, the consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 1.3% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. And a positive trend in earnings estimate revision usually translates into price appreciation. So, make sure to keep an eye on SAM going forward to see if this recent jump can turn into more strength down the road. The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> Boston Beer belongs to the Zacks Beverages - Alcohol industry. Another stock from the same industry, Constellation Brands (STZ), closed the last trading session 1.8% higher at $237.06. Over the past month, STZ has returned 1.2%. Constellation Brands' consensus EPS estimate for the upcoming report has remained unchanged over the past month at $2.80. Compared to the company's year-ago EPS, this represents a change of +5.3%. Constellation Brands currently boasts a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold). Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (SAM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Constellation Brands Inc (STZ) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research By Iain Withers LONDON (Reuters) - British digital bank Monzo marginally narrowed its annual loss in the year to February 2023 and said it had reached monthly profitability, as it battles to match some digital rivals that have already translated rapid growth into profits. Monzo is one of Britain's highest-profile financial technology companies, having attracted 7.4 million customers with its bright coral cards and spend-tracking data since launching in 2015. But unlike some online rivals such as Starling, it has yet to turn a full-year profit. Monzo reported a net loss of 116.3 million pounds ($146.8 million) for the year, compared to a loss of 119 million the previous year. CEO TS Anil told Reuters the bank was "some ways down the road" from reaching its ambition of going public, adding the company had not ruled out floating in New York rather than London, amid growing concerns about tech firms snubbing London. "It's too early. We'll do the work well before we need to make a decision," Anil said when asked where Monzo could float. "We will make a great public company one day," Anil added. "If at some point there's the right reason to raise capital [from investors] to invest even more, we will," he said. The bank expects to post a full-year profit this financial year, Anil said, after the company said it reached monthly bottom-line profitability in March. Monzo's revenue more than doubled to 355.6 million pounds in the year to February, boosted by a rebound in customer spending after pandemic lockdowns and expansion in services, while its deposits increased 34% to 6 billion pounds. Monzo reiterated it remained under investigation for potential breaches of anti-money laundering rules, adding the probe was a "dual-track civil and criminal matter". The company - which said it was co-operating with regulator the Financial Conduct Authority in their investigation - first disclosed the matter in 2021. ($1 = 0.7923 pounds) (Reporting by Iain Withers; editing by Jason Neely) Crypto exchange Bybit has announced its decision to pause its Canadian operations, citing recent regulatory changes. The platform is the latest in a string of crypto firms to pull out of the country, following similar moves from Binance earlier this month and OKX in March. Canada has cracked down on the crypto sector in recent months, introducing a pre-registration process and banning leveraged trading. It has always been Bybit's primary objective to operate our business in compliance with all relevant rules and regulations in Canada, Bybit said in a statement. In light of recent regulatory development, Bybit has made the difficult but necessary decision to pause the availability of our products and services. Canada to Prohibit Crypto Firms From Offering Leveraged Trading to Citizens Bybits existing Canadian users will no longer be able to make new deposits or enter new contracts on the platform from July 31, though they will still be able to withdraw funds, the company said. Bybit will also no longer accept any new registrations from Canadian residents and nationals. Those affected have been urged to wind down their positions by September 30. Any positions on margin products and derivative contracts left open by that date will be liquidated and made available for withdrawal. Bybit exits stage left It is not the first time Bybit has pulled out of a market. In 2021, it stopped serving UK clients to comply with a ban on crypto derivatives. Users in the U.S. are also blocked from the platform. The business also halted derivatives trading in Brazil in September last year, after the countrys securities regulator imposed a ban on the site. The company, founded in 2018 and headquartered in Dubai, was among the many firms forced to cut staff at the end of last year amid the effects of crypto winter. Bybit, a Dubai-headquartered cryptocurrency exchange, on Tuesday said it will exit the Canadian market and stop opening new accounts for users starting Wednesday, citing a recent regulatory development and joining the Binance exchange in pulling out of the country. See related article: Binance exits Canada amid increased regulation in North America Bybit said that it will stop taking new deposits or adding new positions for existing users in Canada starting July 31, stating that users can withdraw or reduce their positions. In light of recent regulatory development, Bybit has made the difficult but necessary decision to pause the availability of our products and services, the exchange said in the Tuesday statement. Bybits move comes after the Canadian Securities Administrators regulatory body said in February that crypto firms planning to operate in Canada must register their compliance with a new set of regulatory guidelines. Earlier this month, Binance, the worlds largest crypto exchange, also said it will pull out of Canada, as new guidance related to stablecoins and investor limits makes the Canada market no longer tenable for the exchange. In contrast, Coinbase, the largest crypto exchange in the U.S., is expanding in Canada. In March, Coinbase said it had hired more than 200 engineers in Canada to support its global product portfolio. Key Insights Using the Dividend Discount Model, Audience Analytics fair value estimate is S$0.27 Current share price of S$0.32 suggests Audience Analytics is potentially trading close to its fair value Industry average of 645% suggests Audience Analytics' peers are currently trading at a higher premium to fair value Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Audience Analytics Limited (Catalist:1AZ) as an investment opportunity by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model is the tool we will apply to do this. It may sound complicated, but actually it is quite simple! We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model. View our latest analysis for Audience Analytics The Model We have to calculate the value of Audience Analytics slightly differently to other stocks because it is a media company. In this approach dividends per share (DPS) are used, as free cash flow is difficult to estimate and often not reported by analysts. Unless a company pays out the majority of its FCF as a dividend, this method will typically underestimate the value of the stock. The 'Gordon Growth Model' is used, which simply assumes that dividend payments will continue to increase at a sustainable growth rate forever. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a company's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In this case we used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.0%). The expected dividend per share is then discounted to today's value at a cost of equity of 8.6%. Compared to the current share price of S$0.3, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out. Value Per Share = Expected Dividend Per Share / (Discount Rate - Perpetual Growth Rate) = S$0.02 / (8.6% 2.0%) = S$0.3 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. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. 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 Audience Analytics as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.6%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.111. 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. Next Steps: 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. 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 Audience Analytics, there are three relevant elements you should explore: Risks: Every company has them, and we've spotted 3 warning signs for Audience Analytics you should know about. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for 1AZ'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 Singaporean stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here The California State Assembly voted 54-3 on May 31 to ban autonomous trucks without a safety driver from state roadways. (Photo: Volvo Trucks) The California State Assembly voted Wednesday to ban driverless trucks from the states roadways, requiring a safety driver be present. If passed by the Senate, it would leave the state where most autonomous trucking companies are based as an outlier in adopting the technology. The 54-3 vote banning autonomous vehicles over 10,000 pounds from operating without a safety driver followed similar majority committee votes on Assembly Bill 316. The measure received support from the Teamsters and other labor groups. They claim driverless trucks would eliminate thousands of good-paying jobs for human drivers. The public should not be treated as a lab rat for big corporations to test their technology. Californians deserve a safety-first approach. And this bill would do just that, Randy Cammack, president of Teamsters Joint Council 42, said in March. California 2024 Senate candidates U.S. Reps. Katie Porter, Adam Schiff and Barbara Lee have voiced support for the legislation. San Francisco Mayor London Breed also has expressed support. Autonomous vehicle industry wants governors support AB 316 is a preemptive technology ban that will put California even further behind other states and lock in the devastating safety status quo on Californias roads, which saw more than 4,400 people die last year, the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA) said in a statement after the vote. AB 316 undermines Californias law enforcement and safety officials as they seek to regulate and conduct oversight over life-saving autonomous trucks, said Jeff Farrah, AVIA executive director. We encourage Governor Newsom and the State Senate to reject AB 316 so Californians will benefit from the safety and supply chain benefits of autonomous trucks. In an April 20 editorial, the Orange County Register said opposition to driverless trucking is classic union featherbedding. Dozens of autonomous trucking and technology founders, CEOs, and others wrote to Newsom in June 2022. California in late August released Driving the Future: Autonomous Vehicles Strategic Framework Vision and Guiding Principles. The nine-page document concludes that AVs hold the promise to be an important part of our mobility future. But its added that they are just one part of a broader set of solutions. The California Department of Motor Vehicles is considering the framework that could allow autonomous vehicles over 10,000 pounds to hit the road, without consent from the State Legislature. Self-driving trucking software companies Kodiak Robotics, Plus, Waymo and TuSimple are all based in California. But they only operate their trucks in the state with safety drivers. That is the current practice in other states. Several states have shown willingness to eventually allow the driver to be removed from the truck. TuSimple is aiming to commercialize a driverless route in Arizona between Tucson and Phoenix as soon as 2024. Pittsburgh-based Aurora is planning to run driverless trucks in Texas by the end of next year. Related articles: Why does California lag in autonomous freight commercialization testing? Uber Freight and Waymo Via envision autonomous trucking for all Kodiak Robotics autonomous confidence extends to cutting cables Click for more FreightWaves articles by Alan Adler. The post California State Assembly votes to ban driverless trucks appeared first on FreightWaves. Photograph: Ethan Swope/AP One of the largest utilities in the US has avoided a trial for a deadly 2020 wildfire that sparked when a tree fell on one of its power lines in rural northern California. A Shasta county judge on Tuesday dismissed manslaughter and other criminal charges against Pacific Gas and Electric related to the Zogg fire, which killed four people as they tried to flee the fast-moving blaze that destroyed the towns of Igo and Ono. Related: Firefighting goats could be furloughed due to California employment law The trial a rare occurrence as PG&E has typically settled criminal cases had been scheduled to start in Shasta county next week, and would have served as a public reckoning for a company that has already paid out billions in damages for wildfires started by its power equipment. As part of a settlement to avoid a trial, PG&E has agreed to pay $45m to groups focused on rebuilding efforts and a $5m civil penalty, and to continue initiatives to reduce the risk of wildfires. The district attorney, Stephanie Bridgett, said in an interview with the Guardian that she did not agree with the judges decision to drop the charges, but that her office fought for a resolution that would help the community. Our goal originally was to prosecute [PG&E] criminally to get a criminal conviction and force change that way, she said. This resolution does bring a lot of needed things into our community to prevent future fires, to make changes that need to be made within PG&E but also to have the personnel and services to respond better in the future. The settlement will fund fuel mitigation efforts, a scholarship program to increase the number of local firefighters, a large animal evacuation center and memorials to honor those who killed in the fire, among other efforts. PG&E must also move some of its infrastructure underground, install new weather monitoring stations and meet regularly with the district attorneys office to ensure it is complying with the agreement. The agreement reflects our continuing commitment to making it right and making it safe. We stand behind our thousands of trained and experienced coworkers and contractors working every day to keep Californians safe, Patti Poppe, the companys CEO, said in a statement. PG&E has been subject to intense scrutiny in recent years for its role in causing devastating and deadly wildfires in California. The company has been accused of repeatedly prioritizing shareholder profits over ensuring the safety of its infrastructure. In recent years, PG&E equipment set off 31 wildfires that wiped away entire towns and killed 113 people. The company pleaded guilty in 2020 to more than 80 counts of manslaughter for its role in the 2018 Camp fire, which destroyed the town of Paradise. In Shasta county, the 2020 disaster started during a windstorm when a gray pine with defects that led to it being marked for removal fell on power lines in the rugged mountainous terrain east of Redding. Fueled by fire-friendly conditions, the blaze raced through the tiny towns and scattered homes in the foothills, consuming more than 56,000 acres (23,000 hectares), taking out hundreds of homes and forcing people to immediately evacuate. Four people died trying to escape the fire: Alaina Mcleod, 46, and her eight-year-old daughter, Feyla; Kenneth Vossen, who was badly burned as he sought refuge at a pond on his rural property; and Karin King, a 79-year old animal advocate and retiree. The case, Bridgett said, was about getting justice for the victims and forcing change in order to save lives and ensure that PG&E doesnt continue the practices that led to the fire in the first place. The judge who dropped the charges said in his ruling that the tree falling on company infrastructure did not necessarily mean PG&E had been negligent. The fact that the tree fell does not itself equate to gross negligence or recklessness, the judge stated. That ruling was in contrast with another local judge who determined earlier this year there was enough evidence that the utility should stand trial for manslaughter. PG&E had previously settled with the California public utilities commission for $150m after the regulatory agency alleged that the tree that caused the fire was not removed in time because of PG&Es poor recordkeeping. Centre for Excellence Hub to Help World's Most Tobacco-Dependent Farmers Transition to More Sustainable Livelihoods A centre of excellence for agricultural transformation in Malawi is being constructed with funding from Foundation for a Smoke-Free World grant. The new building will support ongoing technical programs that focus on creating an inclusive science, technology, and business incubation centre for research, training, learning and innovation. It will be hosted by the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) and open to smallholder farmers, researchers and other key stakeholders across the country's agricultural sector. NEW YORK, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ahead of World No Tobacco Day (WNTD), the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World (FSFW) reinforced its commitment to help farmers in the world's most tobacco dependent country, Malawi, explore and embrace sustainable agriculture alternatives to tobacco farming. Foundation_for_a_Smoke_Free_World_Logo With funding from a five-year FSFW grant, construction has begun for the Centre for Agricultural Transformation's (CAT) physical facility at the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) campus in the Malawian capital. The goal of the CAT is to transform Malawian agriculture systems and the lives of Malawian smallholder farmers by giving them access to inclusive innovation in agricultural science and technology through a range of commercialization channels. The CAT has been managing its programs without a central location, establishing CAT smart farms at LUANAR (Bunda and Natural Resources Campus) and Makoka research station where over 10 value chains have been explored that are becoming popular with smallholder farmers, including: groundnuts, soybean, dairy, mushrooms, and bananas. The new physical hub will be a centre of excellence that will build upon this work with support from FSFW's affiliate, the Agricultural Transformation Initiative (ATI). "World No Tobacco Day highlights the importance of helping farmers transition away from growing tobacco. Malawi is ready, willing and able to move away from tobacco as one of its main exports, but the work must start at ground level," said Candida Nakhumwa, Vice-President and Malawi Country Director, Foundation for a Smoke-Free World. "Tobacco farmers and the land on which tobacco is grown are often overlooked in the conversation about ending smoking. The global decline in tobacco demand is bringing negative economic consequences to tobacco farmers. They must be supported to find competitive and sustainable alternative livelihoods. "That is where the CAT's approach and activities come in, providing much-needed support to farmers, agribusinesses, communities and other stakeholders working to build long-term resilience by diversifying away from tobacco production." Malawi is one of the largest tobacco-producing countries in the world. Tobacco accounts for more than 60% of the country's foreign exchange earnings and 13% of the economy, as measured by the gross domestic product. Between 2016 and 2021, tobacco exports in real terms dropped by 42%, according to the World Bank. Mwatitha Braynati, a groundnuts Malawian farmer since 2020, said: "Before the CAT came to partner with us my groundnut harvest totaled just 30 bags. Two years later, in 2022, from the same 1 hectare of land, my harvest increased to 120 bags with technical guidance from the CAT. Next year I expect it to increase to 150 bags by applying the new practices and technologies demonstrated through the CAT smart farms. "The proceeds from the sale of this harvest have ensured my family of 7 children and 4 grandchildren is happy and does not lack for a good variety of food at home." Learn more about the Centre for Agricultural Transformation via the following link: https://youtu.be/HPm5MpXqyqs Learn more Mwatitha Braynati, a Malawian groundnuts farmer, via the following link: https://youtu.be/tBfC2oRhuRI About CAT's Technical Program: Serves as a hub for science, technology, innovation and incubation, where smallholder farmers and businesses can view and experiment with agri-tech, exchange ideas, create partnerships and develop business plans to advance new and sustainable livelihoods. Supports creation of a market for alternative commodities, and research institutions dedicated to science and technology, where they can incubate and advance innovative ideas that help transition the agricultural sector away from tobacco. Provides customized technical assistance, including mentorship, agribusiness development support, and connections to networks to help advance agricultural diversification. This includes increasing the scale in which smallholder farmers are taught about products, practices, and technologies that can improve their agricultural productivity and improve their livelihoods. Delivers access to soil testing and food testing laboratories so farmers can improve management of soil amendment initiatives and agri-preneurs can ensure their products meet the quality levels required to be market ready. About the Centre for Agricultural Transformation (CAT) The Centre for Agricultural Transformation (CAT) is a science, technology, and business incubation project that promotes the charitable mission of supporting smallholder Malawian farmers in making economically viable, data-driven decisions for diversifying their incomes and ridding them of their dependence on tobacco farming. Launched in 2019, the CAT is supported by a grant from the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World, with general assistance from the Foundation's affiliate, the Agricultural Transformation Initiative. About the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World The Foundation for a Smoke-Free World is an independent, U.S. nonprofit 501(c)(3) grantmaking organization with the purpose of improving global health by ending smoking in this generation. The Foundation supports its mission through three broad categories of work: health and science research; agricultural diversification; and industry transformation. Funded by annual gifts from PMI Global Services Inc. ("PMI"), the Foundation is independent from PMI and operates in a manner that ensures its independence from any commercial entity. For more information about the Foundation, please visit www.smokefreeworld.org. SOURCE Foundation for a Smoke-Free World (Bloomberg) -- Biden administration officials are divided over how aggressively new artificial intelligence tools should be regulated and their differences are playing out this week in Sweden. Most Read from Bloomberg Some White House and Commerce Department officials support the strong measures proposed by the European Union for AI products such as ChatGPT and Dall-E, people involved in the discussions said. Meanwhile, US national security officials and some in the State Department say aggressively regulating this nascent technology will put the nation at a competitive disadvantage, according to the people, who asked not to be identified because the information isnt public. This dissonance has left the US without a coherent response during this weeks US-EU Trade and Technology Council gathering in Sweden to the EUs plan to subject generative AI to additional rules. The proposal would force developers of artificial intelligence tools to comply with a host of strong regulations, such as requiring them to document any copyrighted material used to train their products and more closely track how that information is used. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Wednesday compared advancements in AI technology to social media, noting that in hindsight there should have been more restraint in its development. The stakes are a whole lot higher in AI, she said during a panel at the TCC meeting. Just because you can do it, doesnt mean you should, Raimondo said. And so as we figure out the benefits of AI, I hope were all really eyes-wide-open about the costs and do the analysis of whether we should do it. National Security Council spokesman Adam Hodge said in a statement Tuesday the Biden administration is not divided and is working across the government to advance a cohesive and comprehensive approach to AI-related risks and opportunities. He said the US has been leading on these issues since long before the newest generative AI products. How the EU decides to regulate AI arguably matters more than the debate in Washington. With Congress unlikely to pass binding rules for AI, the European bloc will be the first to dictate how tech giants including Microsoft Corp. and Google owner Alphabet Inc. develop the foundation models that underpin the next frontier of artificial intelligence. Main Battlefield These models rely on training data often large samples of language pulled from the internet to learn how to respond in various situations, rather then being designed for one specific task. This is the technology behind generative AI, which can respond to homework questions, design a power point or create fantastical images from text prompts. The question for regulators is who should bear responsibility for the risks associated with the technology, such as the spread of misinformation or privacy violations. The proposed EU rules would add to reporting requirements for companies that develop models used in chatbots, like OpenAI. Michelle Giuda, director of the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy and a former assistant Secretary of State for global public affairs in the Trump administration, said one of the fundamental tasks for the TTC will be to strengthen trust between allies to foster innovation and keep ahead of Chinas advancements. The context is that innovation in AI is not happening in a vacuum all of this is taking place in this 21st century contest between democracy and authoritarianism, Giuda said. And youve got technology as the main battlefield. High Risk Until recently, the US and EU had a rough consensus to regulate uses rather than the technology itself, with a focus on high-risk areas such as critical infrastructure and law enforcement. This approach was enshrined in the USs non-binding framework for AI systems, as well as the European Commissions initial proposals for the AI Act to regulate the technology. The last council meeting in December focused on end-use risk as well. However, the release of ChatGPT made broader risks more apparent. This month an apparently AI-generated fake image of an explosion near the Pentagon spooked US markets, while the technology has already created corporate winners and losers. Europe is important, but this is bigger than Europe, Commission Executive Vice President Margethe Vestager told reporters at the TTC. She said that, in partnership with the US, we can push something that will make us all much more comfortable with the fact that generative AI is now in the world and is developing at amazing speeds. The European Parliament has proposed new rules that specifically target the foundation models used for generative AI. Lawmakers in committee agreed earlier this month that more scrutiny should be on the companies that develop these foundation models. Most of those companies, including Microsoft and Google, are based in the US. Simmering Resentment This added to already simmering resentment among tech executives over the EUs antitrust and content moderation rules, which disproportionately affect US companies. The tech industry has criticized the Biden administration for not doing more to stand up for US companies in the face of what they see as trade discrimination. With the EUs proposed changes, they warn that the AI Act could go from a bright spot of cooperation to another example of Europe targeting US tech. The revised AI Act could get a vote in parliament in June, ahead of final negotiations with the EUs 27 member states. Dragos Tudorache, one of the lead authors of the bill in the parliament, said after meeting with US officials that they consider our moves to also deal with generative AI a good move. Some US officials disagree, warning that restricting foundation models could hurt US competitiveness, according to the people involved in the discussions. Sam Altman, the chief executive officer of OpenAI, became the public face of corporate concern over regulatory overreach when he suggested his company could pull products from the European market if the rules were too difficult to follow. EU Commissioner Thierry Breton responded with a tweet accusing Altman of attempting blackmail. Altman later said he would work to comply with EUs rules. He will speak with Vestager on Wednesday and meet Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday. European officials have resisted discussing the specifics of the AI Act with their US counterparts ahead of the TTC meeting, viewing it as inappropriate to bring Europes democratic process into a multilateral debate, the people with direct knowledge of the talks said. The EU is still debating regulation and there are European officials who think the parliament has gone too far, according to some of the people. Generative AI will be mentioned in the TTC conclusion, according to a draft obtained by Bloomberg. The document affirms the transatlantic commitment to a risk-based approach, but it also highlights the scale of the opportunities and the need to address the associated risks of generative AI. (Updates with Raimondo comments beginning in the fourth paragraph. A previous version corrected to show Giuda served in Trump administration.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- Its not even June, and China is fielding sweltering temperatures in Shanghai, and peak power demand from Guangdong to Hainan. Most Read from Bloomberg Extreme weather is already promising a fresh test of the electricity grid just months after heat waves and drought throttled hydropower and triggered widespread power shortages. The good news is that China is better prepared than many other countries, according to a report from The Lantau Group. Learning lessons from China will be important for grid operators around the world as a warming planet makes once rare climate events more commonplace and more necessary to plan for. While the Chinese government has been quick to respond to the threat, its less clear that other countries, including the US, are rising to the challenge. Last summer, the worst drought in decades dried up parts of the Yangtze River, reducing the amount of electricity that Chinas mighty dams could produce. At the same time, heat waves caused power demand from air conditioners to surge. The combination forced officials to shut down factories for weeks in Sichuan province, and industrial activity has been curtailed for months in Yunnan, both hydropower-reliant areas. The response has been fast, according to Lantau Groups Mike Thomas and David Fishman. At the end of last year, Sichuan announced it would build a fleet of new gas-fired power plants and more transmission lines connecting the province to neighboring grids. In Guangdong, which relies on imported hydropower from Yunnan, officials unexpectedly approved 17 gigawatts of new coal-fired plants, part of a massive build-out across the country. Will Chinas approach to future-proofing its grid from future disruptions to generation succeed? We think so, Thomas and Fishman wrote. In other parts of the world, not so much. For many operators, having too much excess capacity sitting idle is inefficient and raises costs. The California and Texas grids have suffered shortages in recent years thanks to growing demand and extreme weather, yet neither is making big changes to the way they model future weather risks and the need for more reliable supply, said Thomas and Fishman. If the outcome is that more money must be spent on grid resiliency, even at the risk of redundancy, its still going to be far less costly than the outages or disruptions caused by next years unanticipated 100-year drought that knocks out half of the grid hydro, they said. That isnt to downplay the problems China faces. Hydropower will likely be challenged again this year, according to Citigroup Inc., citing a 90% probability of an El Nino weather pattern between May and July that could bring another round of heat waves. The bank downgraded China Yangtze Power Co. this week because of weaker hydropower utilization and assumptions that low rainfall will persist. Cities in eastern China may face electricity shortages during peak hours this summer, while central and southern areas could also see tight power supplies, according to a report by Shanghai Securities News on Wednesday. The Weeks Diary (All times Beijing unless noted otherwise.) Wednesday, May 31 China official PMIs for May, 09:30 CCTDs weekly online briefing on Chinese coal, 15:00 SMM Indonesia Nickel and Cobalt Industry Chain Conference in Jakarta, day 2 Thursday, June 1 Caixins China manufacturing PMI for May, 09:45 Friday, June 2 China weekly iron ore port stockpiles Shanghai exchange weekly commodities inventory, ~15:30 On the Wire Forget about range anxiety in Hainan. With more than 75,000 charging points, electric vehicle owners in urban areas of the tropical island in southern China are usually no more than a mile or two away from somewhere to power up their cars. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. China's Douyin says has held early talks with Wanda on payments unit FILE PHOTO: Man stands near a giant sign of Chinese company ByteDance's app TikTok, known locally as Douyin, during China Fashion Week, in Beijing HONG KONG (Reuters) - ByteDance's short video app Douyin said on Wednesday that it has held preliminary talks with Dalian Wanda Group over the conglomerate's payments unit. Bloomberg reported on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter, that Wanda was in talks with prospective buyers include China's ByteDance to sell its digital payments licence for about 1 billion yuan ($144 million). It added, however, that the price could be lower based on talks. A spokesperson for Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, declined to provide further comment beyond acknowledging the preliminary talks. Wanda did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Wanda has been trying to improve its liquidity as it has yet to receive a greenlight from Chinese regulators for a planned IPO of its Zhuhai Wanda Commercial Management Group Co unit in Hong Kong. Wanda Chairman Wang Jianlin, once China's richest man, told an internal meeting last week that the IPO was facing difficulties, and that it would stop acquiring land and halt new property management projects in order to cut debt in the next two years, sources told Reuters. Wanda bought its payments licence in 2014 from 99Bill in a deal that allowed visitors to Wanda's venues, from department stores to cinemas, to pay online. ByteDance launched a third-party payment service for Douyin in 2021 after acquiring another payment licence the previous year. ($1 = 6.9121 Chinese yuan renminbi) (Reporting by Josh Ye and Clare Jim in Hong Kong) BEIJING (Reuters) - China's factory activity shrank faster than expected in May on weakening demand, heaping pressure on policymakers to shore up a patchy economic recovery and knocking Asian financial markets lower. The official manufacturing purchasing managers' index (PMI) fell to a five-month low of 48.8, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said on Wednesday, down from 49.2 in April and below the 50-point mark that separates expansion from contraction. The PMI also dashed forecasts for an increase to 49.4. Service sector activity expanded at the slowest pace in four months in May, with the official non-manufacturing PMI falling to 54.5 from 56.4. The readings pushed markets in Asia into the red, with the yuan and Australian and New Zealand dollars tumbling and regional stocks falling sharply. "The PMI data reveal that China may heading to a K-shaped recovery," said Bruce Pang, chief economist at Jones Lang LaSalle. "The sluggish domestic demand could weigh on China's sustainable growth, if there are no efficient and effective policy moves to engineer a broad-based recovery," said Pang. Employee works on the production line of Nio electric vehicles in Hefei The PMIs also echoed weak factory data from other parts of Asia, with Japan reporting a surprise decline in output and South Korean production weakening. The world's second-largest economy is emerging from three years of pandemic lockdowns, but the recovery has been uneven with services spending outperforming activity in the factory, property and export-oriented sectors. The PMI subindexes for May showed factory output swung to contraction from an expansion while new orders, including new exports, fell for the second month. Chemical, ferrous metal smelting and rolling processing industries faced significant declines in production and demand, said NBS. In the services sector, rail and air transport, accommodation and catering sectors remained in the expansion, on the back of strong May Labor Day travel, while real estate activity fell. LOSING MOMENTUM The PMIs and other economic indicators for April add to evidence that the rebound is losing steam. Last month, imports contracted sharply, factory gate prices fell, property investment slumped, industrial profits plunged and factory output and retail sales both missed forecasts. Analysts are now downgrading their expectations for the economy, with Nomura and Barclays both cutting China's 2023 GDP growth forecasts. "Proactive fiscal policies, rate cuts or RRR cuts and targeted monetary policy tools together with structural reform would be key," Jones Lang LaSalle's Pang added. To spur credit growth, the central bank in March cut banks' reserve requirement ratios. Premier Li Qiang said this month more targeted measures were needed to boost demand, while China's central bank said on May 15 it would provide "strong and stable" support for the real economy. Amid the weakness, China's post-pandemic stock rally is faltering as small-time investors turn bearish on equities to double down instead on safer assets. "The sentiment in the financial market is quite bearish. It is not clear how the government interpret the current economic condition," said Zhiwei Zhang, chief economist at Pinpoint Asset Management. "There is no sign of imminent policy response. The government may continue to take a 'wait and see' stance for now." (Reporting by Liangping Gao and Ryan Woo; Editing by Sam Holmes) The logo of Chinese carmaker Geely Auto is pictured at the second media day for the Shanghai auto show in Shanghai China's Geely in early talks to enter Thailand EV market -sources The logo of Chinese carmaker Geely Auto is pictured at the second media day for the Shanghai auto show in Shanghai By Devjyot Ghoshal BANGKOK (Reuters) - Major Chinese automaker Geely is in the early stages of planning an entry to Thailand's electric vehicle (EV) market, including weighing models for import and local manufacturing, according to two people with knowledge of the discussions. The considerations include whether to market an entry-level electric car in Thailand as well as an electric pickup truck from its new Radar brand, the people told Reuters, asking not to be named because the talks remain private. "Geely has no such plans," a company media representative said without elaborating, also declining to provide details about any talks it was having about investments in the country. Thailand's Board of Investment held discussions with five major Chinese EV makers including Geely during a roadshow to China in April, its Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi said. The others were BYD Co Ltd, Chongqing Changan Automobile Co Ltd, JAC Motors and Jiangling Motors Corp Ltd, according to the agency. "All expressed keen interest in Thailand's policy to develop a regional EV production base and an integrated EV supply chain," Narit said, without providing more details of the talks with Geely. Thailand, the world's tenth-biggest auto producer, is searching for new investments as it seeks to protect and diversify a manufacturing base that has been heavily reliant on Japanese brands and combustion engines. The country aims to convert around 30% of its annual production of 2.5 million vehicles into EVs by 2030, according to a government plan. BYD and China's Great Wall Motor Co Ltd are already working on building local EV production in Thailand. Discussions with Geely have faced an additional complication because of the way the company has given working-level autonomy to its brand-level operating groups like Geometry and Radar Auto, one of the people said. "They have to decide what model to bring to Thailand," the second person briefed on the discussions said, adding that Geely's review included the possibility of building a plant in the country. Thailand offers some subsidies for EVs, provided automakers commit to bringing production of cars and parts to the country over a period of several years. Geely, which owns a portfolio of brands including Swedish automaker Volvo, Polestar, Lotus and Zeekr, doubled its stake in luxury carmaker Aston Martin in May. It also has a presence in Southeast Asia through a 49.9% stake in Malaysian carmaker Proton. Geometry is an electric car brand Geely launched in 2019. Sales in China nearly tripled in 2022 led by the Geometry A sedan. Geely started delivery of the Radar RD6, China's first mass-market electric pickup truck, in February. China's Great Wall Motor has said it is considering a research and development centre in Thailand that could work on battery-powered pickup trucks. Pickups are a critical part of Thailand's auto market, comprising more than half of overall light vehicle sales last year and a segment dominated by Japanese carmakers including Toyota Motor Corp and Isuzu Motors Ltd. (Reporting by Devjyot Ghoshal; Additional reporting by Zhang Yan in Shanghai; Editing by Jamie Freed) Everywhere You Look in China Are Signs of More Market Misery (Bloomberg) -- Things are going from bad to worse for Chinese equities, with a key index tumbling into a bear market as disappointing manufacturing data added to the bleak outlook. Most Read from Bloomberg A gauge of Chinese stocks in Hong Kong dropped over 20% from its recent peak to enter a bear market while the Hang Seng Index also retreated. The offshore yuan plummeted to a six-month low while commodities from copper to iron ore slumped. Global funds are beating a hasty retreat as a slew of disappointing data, geopolitical risks and continued weakness in the property sector hurt sentiment. Calls for more policy support are growing, with concerns about a faltering Chinese economy being felt far beyond its shores. The weakness has been expected for months now, so the data is just another reason for the market to drag its feet, said Yang Zhiyong, executive director of Beijing Gemchart Asset Management Co. There were a lot of pledges on supporting the economy earlier in the year, but none of that is coming to fruition, which is what is most frustrating to me. Miserable May Is Dashing Hopes for a Rebound in Chinese Stocks Hong Kongs benchmark Hang Seng Index headed for bear market territory before pulling back, while the Hang Seng China Enterprises Index fell 1.9%. Both gauges posted their biggest monthly declines since February, having lost more than 8%. The pessimism is pervasive. Just 16% of HSCEI members traded above their average share price in the last 50 days, compared with 58% in mid-April. The Hang Seng Index was the worst performing primary gauge on Wednesday. The onshore CSI 300 Index, which wiped out all its gains for 2023 just a few days earlier, dropped another 1% on Wednesday. The decline in stocks may have surprised some traders, who had already factored in further weakness given the recent run of poor data. The data will surely have some negative impact on the market, but this is not entirely surprising and the market has already priced in some of the weakness, said Yan Kaiwen, an analyst at China Fortune Securities. But the room for a further slide will be limited. Global funds arent waiting around to find out for sure. They turned net sellers of Chinese equities for a second straight month, something that hasnt happened since the rout in October. Some China bulls, including Citigroup Inc. and Jefferies Financial Group Inc., have started to retreat, trimming portfolio allocations. Overseas investors sold 3.8 billion yuan ($535 million) of mainland shares via trading links with Hong Kong on Wednesday. The reopening trade is over and now you can really feel the divergence, said Patrick Wu, co-head of trading for Asia-Pacific and the Middle East at Credit Agricole CIB. Global traders wont be going onshore to buy assets big time now. Additionally, a depreciating Chinese currency is providing investors with another excuse to head for the exit. The offshore yuan fell to a six-month low of 7.1285 per dollar on Wednesday. The yield on 10-year Chinese government bonds dropped one basis point to 2.71%. Bad Data With the official manufacturing purchasing managers index missing estimates, traders sold industrial metals. Copper extended its worst monthly loss in almost a year and iron ore fell further below $100 a ton. Even before Wednesdays data, economists had been calling for Chinas central bank to cut the reserve requirement ratio for major banks before the end of the third quarter. To make matters worse, there are no signs of a thaw in tensions between Washington and Beijing. The US accused China of an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver after a Chinese fighter jet swerved in front of a US reconnaissance aircraft over the South China Sea. Beijing also recently declined a request from Washington for the countries defense chiefs to meet this week. Chinas uneven economic recovery is one of investors concerns, along with geopolitics, said Vey-Sern Ling, managing director at Union Bancaire Privee. More stimulus from the government may help, but evidence of sustainable longer-term growth will be required to clear investors doubts. --With assistance from Tian Chen, Jeanny Yu, April Ma and Tania Chen. (Updates with closing prices) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / Condor Resources Inc. - ("Condor" or the "Company") (TSXV:CN) is pleased to announce that it has signed a multi-year surface rights access agreement with the local community. This agreement allows the Company to commence its permitted drill program at the Pucamayo East project. The access agreement seeks to create a long term, mutually beneficial arrangement resulting from Condor's exploration activities, and includes commitments to hire locally to the fullest extent possible, support and provide opportunities for local businesses, provide support to the community school in the form of technology and supplies, and provide financial support for an improved community centre. The agreement was concluded May 23, 2023, has an initial term of two years and will be in effect until April 10, 2025, which is two years from the date that the agreement was approved at the general assembly of the local community. Due to the mutually beneficial relationship that is being built between the Company and the community, Condor expects that the agreement will be extended in due course. The maiden drill program at Pucamayo East is designed to define the extent of the high sulphidation epithermal gold-silver mineralized breccias and silicification identified in outcrop and associated with large areas of high-sulphidation vuggy silica alteration. An additional target to be tested includes a leached porphyry stockwork type alteration with anomalous gold and copper, located near the high-sulphidation target. The program will consist of up to 15 diamond drill holes with a minimum of 2,000 metres of drilling. The Company expects to commence the drill program in late June or early July. Ever Marquez, Condor's Vice President of Exploration states: "With the signing of the renewed Community Access Agreement, Condor is very excited, as the agreement will serve as the basis to commence the maiden drill program at Pucamayo East. This was a protracted process but, in the end, we have signed an agreement that will benefit all stakeholders. Condor is committed to responsible mineral exploration and creating a positive impact in the communities in which we live and work. I would like to thank all parties who worked so hard to get this agreement completed. I would also like to thank our shareholders for their support and patience during this process." Condor is an active explorer focused exclusively on Peru, supplemented by a project generator and royalty model designed to generate exploration capital whilst minimizing shareholder dilution. Our objective in advancing our portfolio of projects is the discovery of a major new precious metals or base metals deposit in Peru. Project acquisition and exploration activities are managed by the Company's Lima based exploration team. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Lyle Davis, President & Chief Executive Officer For further information please contact the Company at 1-866-642-5707, or by email at info@condorresources.com Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in applicable forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in such 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. SOURCE: Condor Resources Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/758234/Community-Access-Agreement-Renewed-at-the-Pucamayo-Project-Peru NORWOOD, Mass., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Corbus Pharmaceuticals Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: CRBP) ("Corbus" or the "Company"), a precision oncology company, today announced that Yuval Cohen, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Corbus, will participate in a Fireside Chat at the 2023 Jefferies Healthcare Conference, to be held in New York, NY June 7-9, 2023. Management will also be available for one-on-one investor meetings during the conference. Corbus Pharmaceuticals Logo (PRNewsfoto/Corbus Pharmaceuticals Holdings, Inc.) 2023 Jefferies Healthcare Conference Format: Fireside Chat, one-on-one investor meetings Presentation Date: Wednesday, June 7, 2023 Presentation Time: 3:00 3:25 PM ET Webcast: Click Here About Corbus Corbus Pharmaceuticals Holdings, Inc. (the "Company" or "Corbus") is a precision oncology company committed to helping people defeat serious illness by bringing innovative scientific approaches to well understood biological pathways. Corbus' internal development pipeline includes CRB-701, a next generation antibody drug conjugate (ADC) that targets the expression of Nectin-4 on cancer cells to release a cytotoxic payload and CRB-601, an anti-integrin monoclonal antibody which blocks the activation of TGF expressed on cancer cells. Corbus is headquartered in Norwood, Massachusetts. For more information on Corbus, visit corbuspharma. com . Connect with us on Twitter , LinkedIn and Facebook . Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain 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 and Private Securities Litigation Reform Act, as amended, including those relating to the Company's restructuring, trial results, product development, clinical and regulatory timelines, market opportunity, competitive position, possible or assumed future results of operations, business strategies, potential growth opportunities and other statement that are predictive in nature. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the industry and markets in which we operate and management's current beliefs and assumptions. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking expressions, including, but not limited to, "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "estimate," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "would" and similar expressions and the negatives of those terms. These statements relate to future events or our financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors on our operations, clinical development plans and timelines, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include those set forth in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. INVESTOR CONTACT: Sean Moran Chief Financial Officer Corbus Pharmaceuticals Sean.moran@corbuspharma.com Bruce Mackle Managing Director LifeSci Advisors, LLC bmackle@lifesciadvisors.com Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/corbus-pharmaceuticals-to-participate-in-the-2023-jefferies-healthcare-conference-301838278.html SOURCE Corbus Pharmaceuticals (Bloomberg) -- The debt-limit deal struck by President Joe Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy is heading toward a vote Wednesday in the House of Representatives after clearing a crucial procedural hurdle with just days remaining to avoid a US default. Most Read from Bloomberg Legislation to suspend the US borrowing ceiling for a period and cap federal spending was advanced by the House Rules committee Tuesday night on a 7-6 margin, sending it to a vote on final passage by the full House. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, a Minnesota Republican, said early Wednesday that hes confident the votes are in hand to move it through the chamber and send it to the Senate. Oh yeah, its going to pass today, Emmer said on CNN. Congress is racing to approve the measure before June 5, the date when Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned the US risks default. Yet leaders in both parties face members who oppose concessions made by negotiators in the compromise unveiled over the weekend. In one sign of growing momentum for the legislation in the House, the 64-member bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus has agreed to back the legislation, an aide said early on Wednesday. US Treasuries gained for a second day as traders assessed the likely impact of the debt-ceiling accord on future Fed policy decisions. The yield on the 10-year note dipped about two basis points to 3.66% as of 8:31 a.m. in New York, from 3.80% at the end of last week. The bill would set the course for federal spending for the next two years and suspend the debt ceiling until Jan. 1, 2025 postponing another clash over borrowing until after the presidential election. Biden and McCarthy have both said the measure would pass, and each spent much of the Memorial Day holiday lobbying members of their respective parties. In exchange for Republican votes for the suspension, Democrats agreed to cap federal spending for the next two years. The White House interpretation of the caps has it telling lawmakers the deal would lower spending by about $1 trillion over a decade, while the GOP argues the spending cut is double that. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office on Tuesday estimated that the bill would cut deficits by $1.5 trillion over 10 years. US INSIGHT: Debt Deal Will Make Everyone Unhappy - Heres Why Bloomberg Economics economists Anna Wong and Maeva Cousin wrote on Tuesday that the two-year spending caps called for in the agreement will deal an additional short-term blow to an economy already vulnerable to a recession. Yet theyll barely dent the unsustainable medium-term trajectory of US federal debt which we estimate is still on track to rise from 97% of GDP in 2022 to more than 130% of GDP by 2033. The bills fate was in question before Tuesdays Rules Committee hearing, given the 13-member panels makeup, which includes several conservatives as well as four Democrats. But Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky, another conservative on the panel, voted to approve the measure, providing enough votes to move it to the House floor. My purpose in being on this committee was not to imprint my ideology, Massie said during Tuesdays hearing. Massie later said he would support the bill. Representatives Chip Roy of Texas and Ralph Norman of South Carolina, both members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus that has criticized the deal, voted against moving it forward, along with the panels four Democrats. Leaders of both parties expressed optimism that the House would quickly pass the legislation. Wednesday passage in the House is critical to getting the bill through the Senate before the June 5 deadline. We are going to make sure the country does not default, House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries told Bloomberg Televisions Balance of Power on Tuesday. We will be able to get this bill over the finish line tomorrow, he said. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise said after the Rules committee vote that there were some members this morning who werent decided who had some very valid questions. And by tonight, they came up and spoke and said that theyre going to vote for the bill. Even so, dissatisfaction in conservative ranks escalated on Tuesday, with one Republican calling for McCarthys ouster. Read More: McCarthy Confident on Debt Vote Despite Hard-Line Ouster Threat Representative Dan Bishop of North Carolina demanded a vote on his removal, claiming that the agreement granted too many concessions to Democrats. Roy promised a reckoning for McCarthy. Republican lawmakers, he said, had been torn asunder by the agreement. McCarthy has lost some trust, Norman said. Asked earlier Tuesday if he was worried about the possibility of being replaced as speaker, McCarthy responded: Nope. --With assistance from Paul Dobson, Emily Wilkins and Laura Litvan. (Adds quote from Republican leader in third and fourth paragraphs and Problem Solvers Caucus support in sixth.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- The House began voting Wednesday evening on the deal struck by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Joe Biden to avert a catastrophic US default. Most Read from Bloomberg Leaders of both parties expressed confidence they had enough votes to pass the bill and send it to the Senate days before the June 5 default deadline. Hours earlier, the House voted, 241-187, to take a procedural step needed to consider the measure. Such votes setting the rules for debate are nearly always decided along party lines, but McCarthy needed votes from Democrats to offset 29 Republican no votes, underscoring the divide within his own party over the legislation. The compromise drew opposition from lawmakers on the flanks of both parties as the vote approached. But Biden, McCarthy and their lieutenants have worked the phones since concluding the deal Saturday night to build a large enough coalition of moderates to muster the requisite 218 votes for passage in the House. I think things are going as planned, Biden told reporters at the White House, before he was due to leave for Colorado. God willing, by the time I land, Congress will have acted, the House will have acted, and well be one step closer. Debt-Ceiling Anxiety Tracker: Fears Ebb in Financial Markets House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, a Minnesota Republican, said early Wednesday that hes sure the votes are in hand. Its going to pass, he said. The bill will next go to the Senate, where objections from conservatives could force days of debate. But John Thune, the Senates No. 2 Republican, said Wednesday that there could be a deal to pass the bill by Friday night. The bill would set the course for federal spending for the next two years and suspend the debt ceiling until Jan. 1, 2025 postponing another clash over borrowing until after the presidential election. In exchange for Republican votes for the suspension, Democrats agreed to cap federal spending for the next two years. The White House is telling lawmakers the deal would lower spending by about $1 trillion over a decade, while the GOP argues the spending cut is double that. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office on Tuesday estimated that the bill would cut deficits by $1.5 trillion over 10 years. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone Ltd.s auditor sounded a note of caution over insufficient disclosures around the companys transactions with certain entities, returning the spotlight to allegations made by short seller Hindenburg Research on Gautam Adanis empire. Most Read from Bloomberg Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP raised concerns on Tuesday over the port units transactions with three entities, which the company said were unrelated parties. But the auditor said it couldnt confirm that the parties were indeed unrelated, and that the firm has refused to get an independent external examination that would help prove so. It therefore signed off on the companys books only with whats called a qualified opinion. Noting that the evaluation performed by the group does not constitute sufficient appropriate audit evidence for the purpose of the audit, Deloitte said that it cant comment if the company was fully compliant with local laws. Its the first time that a top auditor has issued a qualified opinion on part of the port-to-power conglomerates books citing allegations from the US short seller report that has wiped more than $100 billion off the groups market value. The move will renew concerns that information gaps persist in Adanis financial dealings, and risks hampering its attempts to move past Hindenburgs allegations of extensive corporate fraud. The qualified statement could be a dampener near term, Sanford C. Bernstein analysts Nikhil Nigania and Anusha Madireddy wrote in a Tuesday report on the stock. Labyrinth of Entities One area highlighted by Hindenburg thats received attention is how parties like Adanis little-known elder brother, Vinod, is a director of several overseas firms which are either investors in or transact with the conglomerate. The US shortseller characterized this as a vast labyrinth of offshore shell entities that moved billions of dollars into Adani firms without disclosure of the related party nature of the deals. The Adani Group has denied Hindenburgs allegations and has maintained it is fully compliant with disclosures required under Indian laws. It is awaiting findings of a probe by Indias market regulator that needs to conclude by Aug. 14 deadline on any possible violations by the conglomerate. An expert panel appointed by Indias top court this month found no regulatory failure or signs of price manipulation in the groups stocks in its interim report. Here is more detail on the three transactions flagged by Deloitte: Adani Group signed an engineering contract with a subsidiary of a company identified in the Hindenburg report from whom 37.5 billion rupees ($453 million) was recoverable as of March 31. The auditor was told by the group that this contractor is not a related party. There have been financial transactions, including of equity, made with parties identified in the short seller report. Adani Group told Deloitte that these are not related parties. All payables were settled with no dues remaining. Adani Ports sale of its Myanmar port to Solar Energy Ltd., incorporated in Anguilla, earlier this month. The sale price was revised from 20.15 billion rupees to just 2.47 billion rupees and an impairment charge was taken. The group told the auditor these are not related parties. On a call Tuesday evening with industry analysts, the management of Adani Ports said they had been working with the engineering contractor for a decade. They said it had been delivering projects on time and within cost and that Deloitte decided to qualify it pending the investigation by Indias capital markets regulator and Supreme Court. Adani Ports and its audit committee are of the view that an independent examination at this stage will not be appropriate given the ongoing investigations, the firm said in a statement on Thursday. Deloittes qualification this year, as we summarize it, is owing to the pending conclusion of these investigations. Deloitte has also issued a qualified opinion for Adani Transmission Ltds financial results for the quarter through March, while auditors of other Adani Group entities barring Adani Wilmar Ltd. and New Delhi Television Ltd. issued similar qualified opinions on the respective financial statements, but none have specifically mentioned Hindenburgs broadside against the conglomerate. Deloitte is the only Adani Group auditor to raise concerns over the nature of specific transactions as part of its qualified opinion, whereas other auditors only cited the ongoing investigation by the Securities and Exchange Board of India as the basis for their opinion. Crown Jewel The auditors caution emerged as Adanis flagship ports business reported profit of 11.59 billion rupees in the quarter through March that missed the average 15.57 billion rupee estimate from analysts surveyed by Bloomberg, marred by an impairment after it pulled out of Myanmar. The company houses some of Adanis most lucrative assets and is often touted as the groups crown jewel, with its 14 ports handling nearly a quarter of all cargo passing through India. It is also the most widely tracked Adani stock among sell-side analysts. All 20 currently covering the stock have a buy rating, data compiled by Bloomberg show. Adani Ports forecast earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization would grow by as much as 17% in the year through March 2024, buoyed by an expansion of cargo volumes. That guidance reflects a resilient growth profile capable of defying a global slowdown, underpinned by earlier investments and M&A, Denise Wong, an infrastructure analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence, wrote on Wednesday. But growth may hinge on its ability to marshal financing and the conclusion of regulatory probes and a stronger push to improve corporate governance, she said. --With assistance from Saket Sundria. (Updates with Adani Ports statement.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Key Insights Thermo Fisher Scientific's estimated fair value is US$388 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Thermo Fisher Scientific's US$514 share price signals that it might be 32% overvalued Our fair value estimate is 38% lower than Thermo Fisher Scientific's analyst price target of US$628 In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO) by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex. Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you. Check out our latest analysis for Thermo Fisher Scientific Is Thermo Fisher Scientific Fairly Valued? We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$6.87b US$8.61b US$9.48b US$9.58b US$9.71b US$9.86b US$10.0b US$10.2b US$10.4b US$10.6b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x8 Analyst x9 Analyst x8 Analyst x2 Est @ 1.35% Est @ 1.58% Est @ 1.74% Est @ 1.85% Est @ 1.93% Est @ 1.98% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 7.9% US$6.4k US$7.4k US$7.5k US$7.1k US$6.6k US$6.2k US$5.9k US$5.6k US$5.2k US$5.0k ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$63b We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.1%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 7.9%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2032 (1 + g) (r g) = US$11b (1 + 2.1%) (7.9% 2.1%) = US$186b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$186b ( 1 + 7.9%)10= US$87b The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is US$150b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of US$514, the company appears potentially overvalued at the time of writing. 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. 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 Thermo Fisher 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 0.980. 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 Thermo Fisher Scientific Strength Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows. Weakness Earnings declined over the past year. Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Life Sciences market. Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the American market. Threat Annual revenue is forecast to grow slower than the American market. Moving On: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. What is the reason for the share price exceeding the intrinsic value? For Thermo Fisher Scientific, we've compiled three further aspects you should consider: Risks: For example, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Thermo Fisher Scientific that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does TMO'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. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the NYSE every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here By Kavya Guduru (Reuters) - Oil prices will creep up from current levels as major producer group OPEC+ maintains restrictions on supplies, but economic headwinds will keep them below $90 a barrel this year, a Reuters poll showed on Wednesday. A survey of 43 economists and analysts forecast Brent crude would average $84.73 a barrel in 2023, down from the $87.1 consensus in April and current levels of around $73. Most analysts expect oil to trade around the $80-level per barrel this year, with data and analytics firm Kpler noting that "macroeconomic concerns are a major driver of crude prices this year, overshadowing relatively tight fundamentals." The global benchmark has averaged around $80.95 per barrel so far this year. [O/R] West Texas Intermediate (WTI) U.S. crude is expected to average $79.20 a barrel in 2023, down from the previous month's $82.23 consensus. Worries around robust monetary tightening, bank failures in the U.S., the risk of a U.S. debt default and China's uneven economic performance have limited the market's upside even though it falls into deficit in the second half of the year, Matthew Sherwood, lead commodities analyst at EIU, said. But possible further production cuts from OPEC+, which groups the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries with Russia and other allies, at its June 4 meeting in Vienna, could provide a floor for prices, some analysts said. "Given the macro uncertainties and fall in oil prices in May, we think OPEC would want to adjust production targets down further, but may have to risk ceding market share to Russia," Suvro Sarkar, energy sector team lead at DBS Bank, said. Given conflicting messages on the next oil policy moves from OPEC+, poll respondents were divided on whether the group would push ahead with more output cuts this weekend, or leave production targets unchanged to assess the impact of earlier cuts. "Even if OPEC+ does not cut in June, the threat of production cuts will remain as long as oil remains significantly below $80 per barrel," EIU'S Sherwood said. OPEC+ surprised the market in April with output cuts that briefly drove up oil prices. (Reporting by Kavya Guduru in Bengaluru; Editing by Noah Browning and Barbara Lewis) The European Commission voted a new electronic identification scheme that creates new opportunities for EU citizens and businesses. SOFIA, Bulgaria, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Evrotrust Technologies AD, a leading European qualified trust service provider has been successfully voted by the Cooperation Network at the European Commission as a pre-notified electronic identification (eID) scheme under the eIDAS Regulation. This opens the doors for citizens of all member states to access public services in the entire EU completely digitally with only a few clicks. Evrotrust Technologies AD logo (PRNewsfoto/Evrotrust Technologies AD) Earlier this year, Evrotrust, headquartered in Bulgaria, attracted a pre-seed investment of 2.5 million euros, distinguishing itself as a leader in the Central and Eastern European start-up space. The company has over 1 million international users aged between 18 and 80 and over 100 business clients, 15 of which are some of the major banking institutions worldwide. "We are incredibly proud to have been pre-notified by the EU under the eIDAS regulation" said Evrotrust Chairman of the Board of Directors, prof. George Dimitrov. "This achievement is a testament to our dedication to providing trustworthy and reliable digital identity and e-signing solutions to individuals and businesses in Europe. We look forward to continuing to innovate in the area of digital transformation and play a leading role in the future of digital identities and qualified trust services." The pre-notification procedure of Evrotrust involved peer review assessment for eIDAS compliance by all European member states. The procedure took more than 6 months, and as a result, the Evrotrust eID scheme is recognized to meet both high and substantial assurance levels, demonstrating its commitment to providing secure digital identity to individuals and businesses across Europe. Last year Evrotrust was recognized by Deloitte as one of the 50 fastest-growing tech start-ups in central Europe for its stunning 958% growth rate. About Evrotrust Evrotrust is a leading electronic identity and qualified trust service provider with a mission to help businesses and governments digitally transform their processes and develop sustainable digital channels. The Evrotrust platform is an end-to-end solution for remote electronic identification and digital signing with qualified signatures that enables users to remotely register and authenticate for any service using only their smartphone. It is easily integrated into third-party backend systems and mobile applications. Working with Evrotrust empowers any organization to provide an excellent user experience while staying compliant with regulations and keeping fraud away. www.evrotrust.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2081253/evrotrust_Logo.jpg Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-eid-scheme-gives-eu-citizens-easy-access-to-public-services-online-301838296.html SOURCE Evrotrust Technologies AD It's common for many investors, especially those who are inexperienced, to buy shares in companies with a good story even if these companies are loss-making. Unfortunately, these high risk investments often have little probability of ever paying off, and many investors pay a price to learn their lesson. Loss making companies can act like a sponge for capital - so investors should be cautious that they're not throwing good money after bad. So if this idea of high risk and high reward doesn't suit, you might be more interested in profitable, growing companies, like 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad (KLSE:SEM). Now this is not to say that the company presents the best investment opportunity around, but profitability is a key component to success in business. See our latest analysis for 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad How Fast Is 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad Growing? If you believe that markets are even vaguely efficient, then over the long term you'd expect a company's share price to follow its earnings per share (EPS) outcomes. That means EPS growth is considered a real positive by most successful long-term investors. Over the last three years, 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad has grown EPS by 4.5% per year. While that sort of growth rate isn't anything to write home about, it does show the business is growing. It's often helpful to take a look at earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) margins, as well as revenue growth, to get another take on the quality of the company's growth. EBIT margins for 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad remained fairly unchanged over the last year, however the company should be pleased to report its revenue growth for the period of 30% to RM3.9b. That's progress. In the chart below, you can see how the company has grown earnings and revenue, over time. Click on the chart to see the exact numbers. In investing, as in life, the future matters more than the past. So why not check out this free interactive visualization of 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad's forecast profits? Are 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders? It's pleasing to see company leaders with putting their money on the line, so to speak, because it increases alignment of incentives between the people running the business, and its true owners. So it is good to see that 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad insiders have a significant amount of capital invested in the stock. Indeed, they have a considerable amount of wealth invested in it, currently valued at RM716m. Coming in at 32% of the business, that holding gives insiders a lot of influence, and plenty of reason to generate value for shareholders. Looking very optimistic for investors. Should You Add 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad To Your Watchlist? One important encouraging feature of 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad is that it is growing profits. For those who are looking for a little more than this, the high level of insider ownership enhances our enthusiasm for this growth. That combination is very appealing. So yes, we do think the stock is worth keeping an eye on. It's still necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 2 warning signs with 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad (at least 1 which can't be ignored) , and understanding these should be part of your investment process. Although 7-Eleven Malaysia Holdings Berhad certainly looks good, it may appeal to more investors if insiders were buying up shares. If you like to see insider buying, then this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying, could be exactly what you're looking for. Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. 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 By Nerijus Adomaitis BERGEN, Norway (Reuters) - Inspections of Norway's offshore gas pipelines after the Nord Stream blasts found nothing suspicious, an executive at energy major Equinor told Reuters, in the first official word on the security sweep. However, risks remain after last year's still-unexplained explosions at the Nord Stream pipelines built to carry Russian gas to Germany via the Baltic Sea, warned Jannicke Nilsson, who manages security for Equinor. Europe's largest gas supplier after a drop in Russian flows last year, Equinor also acts as technical service provider for offshore pipelines operator Gassco. It launched the inspections shortly after the explosions on Sept. 26. "We did find the things that we wanted to check, and when we checked it, it was OK," Jannicke Nilsson, Equinor's executive in charge of security, safety and sustainability, said in an interview. The company said inspections had been conducted to identify anything out of the ordinary, like damages, foreign objects or any changes to how the pipelines are covered on the seabed. Nilsson, who rarely gives interviews, spoke about how the war in Ukraine and the Nord Stream explosions have changed the operations of Norway's largest oil and gas producer. Despite underwater inspections not finding any suspicious objects along Norway's key pipelines, the threat of an attack was still present. "It's not gone. What happened with Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 is a very clear reminder of how far some people are willing to go," she said. NATO HELP Equinor was working with authorities in Norway, the European Union, Britain and military alliance NATO on what the company can do to prevent such an attack, she added. Norway is a member of NATO but not of the European Union. Last summer, Norway designated Equinor and Gassco as companies critical to national security, allowing security services to share relevant classified information. After the Feb. 24 invasion, some Equinor executives including Nilsson received security clearances from Norwegian authorities, allowing them to read intelligence reports. In January, Equinor CEO Anders Opedal went to NATO's headquarters in Brussels to speak about protection of the West's offshore infrastructure, such as pipelines and cables. After the Nord Stream blasts, the Norwegian Navy and NATO allies patrolled around offshore oil and gas platforms. In February, NATO established a Critical Undersea Infrastructure Protection Cell to improve cooperation with the industry. "If we need assistance, the Norwegian military and NATO would provide resources... they would be here quickly," Nilsson said. Onshore, Norway's military posted soldiers to guard major oil and gas processing plants and help police, though their work there has now ended. In a show of NATO's and the EU's focus on protecting Europe's gas supplies, their chiefs Jens Stoltenberg and Ursula von der Leyen visited Norway's largest gas producing platform, Troll A, in March. "I don't think this could have happened two years ago... because back then we were not seen as that important for European energy security," Nilsson said. "Now they see that gas from Norway and gas from Equinor is key." (Reporting by Nerijus Adomaitis, Editing by Gwladys Fouche and Andrew Cawthorne) Images of well-known celebrities are being used as the faces of crypto scamsdespite social networks vowing to clamp down on fraudsters. British bank NatWest has released a league table that shows which A-listers had their likeness used to steal the most money from naive and unsuspecting customers. A picture of Jeff Bezos was involved in the highest-value crypto scam, with 158,873 ($196,344) lost in a single incident. The billionaires image was used to promote a Google advert for an investment opportunitypurportedly on a new Amazon trading platform for cryptocurrencies. And a photo of Elon Muskwhose face is often used by scammers on YouTube livestreams plugging "send one Bitcoin, get two back" scamswas used to steal 42,500 ($52,545). The victim had mistakenly believed that Tesla's CEO had endorsed a crypto scheme. Fake Elon Musk Coin, AI Scams Raise Ire of Texas Regulators In a sign that the mania surrounding cryptocurrencies has died down following a punishing bear market, the top three celebrity scams that NatWest customers fell for didn't involve digital assets. The highest-value case that the bank had to deal with involved Peter Jones, a multimillionaire who hosts Dragon's Den (the British equivalent of Shark Tank). His photo was used in a promotional interview that mimicked a genuine newspaper article, and one poor Briton lost 285,209 ($352,649) as a result. Sir David Attenboroughwhose nature documentaries are loved the world overfeatured in a Twitter advert that claimed he made 125,000 ($154,525) from stocks and shares related to gold, natural gas and oil. Despite it being highly unlikely that a personality known for his conservation work would invest in fossil fuels, a victim who saw the scam lost 275,551 ($340,636). And things get unlikelier still when you consider that an image of Piers Morganthe love-him-or-hate-him broadcasterwas used on Facebook to part someone with 232,238 ($287,105) of their hard-earned cash. Pictures of Martin Lewisa British financial journalist and consumer champion who won a settlement from Facebook in 2019 after his face was plastered on crypto scamsalso featured in a bogus ad that cost a victim 149,651 (184,989). Where did the advert appear? Facebook. Number of Crypto Hacks, Scams Jumped 192% Year-Over-Year, Reports Immunefi NatWest says millions of pounds are being stolen, and these figures only reflect the highest-value individual cases. Worse still, this data is only from one bank. "Criminals are using some of the UK's most trusted and respected celebrity images to steal millions of pounds," NatWest scam expert Stuart Skinner said in a news release, urging consumers to be "extremely cautious of fake celebrity investment adverts seen online. He added that, A cross-industry effort with social media companies is required to stop this crime." There are two British celebrities who have fallen out of NatWest's rankings this year: Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield. The daytime TV personalities fell out of favor with the public last year amid allegations they skipped long queues to see the Queen lying in state. In the past week, Schofield's television career has been left in tatters after it emerged he lied about having an affair with a young male colleague while married to his wife. Fogo de Chao to Enter Emeryville With Third Location in the Bay Area Fogo de Chao Leading Restaurant from Brazil Announces a Newly Signed Lease at Bay Street Emeryville Emeryville Restaurant Fogo de Chaos new location in Emeryville is set to open later this year at Bay Street Emeryville. Gaucho Chefs Fogos Gaucho Chefs practice the culinary art of Churrasco- butchering, preparing and fire-roasting different cuts of protein over an open flame. Fogo.com Wagyu New York Strip Guests can enhance their experience with a 20 oz. Wagyu New York Strip, renowned for intense marbling and buttery texture. Fogo.com Bar Fogo Guests will be able to enjoy all-day happy hour every day at the Emeryville location in the dining room, patio and Bar Fogo areas which include $5 Brazilian Beers, $8 South American Wines and $10 Brazilian-Inspired cocktails. Fogo.com Seafood Tower Brazilian-inspired seafood options will be available a la carte including a Seafood Tower with jumbo shrimp, lobster, crab and more. Fogo.com EMERYVILLE, Calif., May 31, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fogo de Chao, the internationally-renowned restaurant from Brazil that allows guests to make culinary discoveries at every turn, announced today that it has signed a lease agreement to open its third Bay Area location. The new restaurant is slated to open later this year at Bay Street Emeryville, Emeryvilles premier open-air shopping and dining destination located at 5633 Bay Street. The announcement for a location in Emeryville supports the brands continued 15% annual restaurant growth across the United States. 2023 has proven to be another strong year for Fogo with 12 new domestic and international leases signed and recent openings in key markets across the U.S. including Lynnwood, W.A., National Harbor, M.D., Woodland Hills, C.A., and Paramus, N.J. with more planned for later this year. Additionally, the announcement proceeds the companys recently announced plans to enter Turkey and Ecuador as the brand continues to execute its strategic global growth plan. For nearly 45 years, Fogo has shared Southern Brazilian hospitality with cities across the world, introducing authentic dining experiences for guests through culinary exploration, said Barry McGowan, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chao. We are thrilled to continue to expand our presence in the Bay Area and to partner with the accomplished team at Bay Street Emeryville to introduce the culinary art of churrasco to the local community. Designed in partnership with architecture and design agency Innovation & Design in Architecture, the Emeryville restaurant will showcase Fogos recent brand transformation with enhanced design and innovation platforms in a warm, timeless and approachable setting that complements the Bay Area. In the new restaurant, engaging social gathering spaces will be layered throughout Bar Fogo, dining room and outdoor dining patio to further enhance the guest experience and ambiance by providing inviting, conversational areas to linger and enjoy. Dry-aged meat lockers for in-house aging will display indulgent cuts such as a 32 oz. Long bone Tomahawk Ribeye, aged for a minimum of 42 days for rich flavor. Additionally, guests can dine at an open-air churrasco grill while watching gaucho chefs display the culinary art of churrasco as they butcher, prepare and grill cuts of protein over an open flame. We are excited that Fogo de Chao has selected Bay Street Emeryville for the expansion of their Bay Area presence, said Izamar Hook, General Manager at Bay Street Emeryville. Fogo de Chaos next-level dining experience is a welcome addition to the community, pairing perfectly with the best-in-class experience-based amenities in the open-air community gathering area. The Emeryville restaurant marks the third location in the Bay Area, joined by locations in San Francisco and San Jose. All new innovations and enhanced experiences will accompany Fogos everyday offerings, including Weekday Lunch, Weekend Brazilian Brunch, Bar Fogo, Group and Private Dining, To-Go and Butcher Shop options in addition to Full-Service catering which includes on-site cooking with portable churrasco grills, gauchos and a curated dining experience. For more information, visit https://fogo.com/. About Fogo de Chao Fogo de Chao (fogo-dee-shown) is an internationally renowned restaurant that allows guests to discover whats next at every turn. Founded in Southern Brazil in 1979, Fogo elevates the centuries-old cooking technique of churrasco the art of roasting high-quality cuts of meat over an open flame into a cultural dining experience of discovery. In addition to its Market Table and Feijoada Bar which includes seasonal salads and soup, fresh vegetables, imported charcuterie and more guests are served simply-seasoned meats that are butchered, fire-roasted and carved tableside by gaucho chefs. Guests can also indulge in dry-aged or premium Wagyu cuts, seafood a la carte, Bar Fogo Features including signature cocktails, and an award-winning South American wine list, as well as smaller, sharable plates in Bar Fogo. Fogo offers differentiated menus for all dayparts including lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and group dining, plus full-service catering and contactless takeout and delivery options. For locations and more information about Fogo de Chao, visit fogo.com. Emeryville rendering Fogo de Chaos new location in Emeryville is set to open later this year at Bay Street Emeryville. Gaucho Chefs Fogos Gaucho Chefs practice the culinary art of Churrasco - butchering, preparing and fire-roasting different cuts of protein over an open flame. Fogo.com Wagyu New York Strip Guests can enhance their experience with a 20 oz. Wagyu New York Strip, renowned for intense marbling and buttery texture. Fogo.com Guests will be able to enjoy all-day happy hour every day at the Emeryville location in the dining room, patio and Bar Fogo areas which include $5 Bra Guests will be able to enjoy all-day happy hour every day at the Emeryville location in the dining room, patio and Bar Fogo areas which include $5 Brazilian Beers, $8 South American Wines and $10 Brazilian-Inspired cocktails. Fogo.com Seafood Tower Brazilian-inspired seafood options will be available a la carte including a Seafood Tower with jumbo shrimp, lobster, crab and more. Fogo.com Media Contact: fogo@konnectagency.com Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d9ae3dd0-ba15-4560-ab08-9d0bd848a835 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/313f53d3-7756-4fc2-b727-f42d2e5747d5 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/14939785-6d18-47a6-a3f6-d395817862a4 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ed70e693-c9aa-41e6-abf5-bbc48fa71493 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/59432b97-c86b-4bfc-a971-32ce31f75ea3 Former Coinbase Product Manager Reaches Settlement with SEC Former Coinbase Product Manager Reaches Settlement with SEC The Wahi brothers, Ishan and Nikhil, have reached a settlement with the SEC over charges of insider trading involving crypto asset securities. The SEC alleged that Ishan Wahi, a former product manager at Coinbase, used his access to confidential information about upcoming listings of nine crypto assets on the Coinbase platform to trade them before the public announcements. His brother Nikhil Wahi also participated in the scheme and benefited from the illegal trades. The SEC filed a lawsuit against the Wahi brothers on July 21, 2022, accusing them of violating Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5. The Wahi brothers agreed to pay disgorgement of their ill-gotten gains, plus prejudgment interest. However, the SEC did not seek civil penalties in light of the Wahi brothers' prison sentences in a parallel criminal case. The settlement is subject to court approval. The SEC's director of enforcement, Gurbir S. Grewal, stated that the case shows that the SEC does not tolerate insider trading in any form, including crypto asset securities. (Bloomberg) -- Franklin Resources Inc. is buying Putnam Investments in a deal that unites two established asset management firms and offers Canadas billionaire Desmarais family a way out of a troubled investment. Most Read from Bloomberg Franklin Templeton will initially pay $925 million in shares and cash to acquire Putnam from Great-West Lifeco Inc., which is controlled by the Desmarais familys Power Corp. of Canada group. Franklin, which managed $1.4 trillion at the end of April, has been on deal spree, including buying two alternative-asset managers over the past two years to expand in scale and capabilities. Mutual fund providers are facing pressure from investors shift to cheaper index-tracking funds, forcing them to trim costs and find new categories of assets to manage. Shares of Franklin fell 2.8% to $24.01 in New York, while Great-West dipped 0.6% in Toronto. The deal also includes as much as $375 million in contingent payments tied to revenue growth from a partnership between the two sides, Franklin Templeton said in a statement Wednesday. Great-West, one of Canadas largest life insurers and asset managers, will have a 6.2% stake in Franklin, most of which will be locked up for five years. This is a compelling transaction for Franklin Templeton, and we are excited about the numerous opportunities that will be unlocked by this long-term strategic partnership, Jenny Johnson, chief executive officer of Franklin Templeton, said in a statement. As part of the deal, Great-West will provide an initial long-term allocation of $25 billion to Franklin Templeton to manage. Franklin said in the statement that the deal for Putnam, which was founded in 1937, expands the firms insurance industry and retirement assets, as well adding to its business of managing mutual funds. Franklin will now manage about $90 billion in defined-contribution retirement assets as well as about $150 billion in insurance assets, according to the company. Franklin said it will seek to overhaul smaller funds. For Montreal-based Power, a sale would close the book on a long-term investment that didnt work out. Great-West struck a C$4.6 billion ($3.4 billion) deal in 2007 to acquire Putnam, which had nearly $200 billion in assets under management at the time but was struggling to stem client redemptions. That deal also included also included a stake in Thomas H. Lee Partners and a tax asset. Excluding those, Great-West paid about $3 billion for Putnams investment management operations, according to the company. In Wednesdays deal, Franklin Templeton is acquiring funds from Putnam that manage $136 billion. PanAgora Asset Management Inc., a quantitative shop that handles about $33 billion, is not included in the transaction. (Updates with closing share price, additional details on original deal) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Winning portfolio chronicles conflict in Central Africa, the Middle East and Ukraine WASHINGTON, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Women's Media Foundation (IWMF) today announced freelance photojournalist Laurence Geai as its ninth annual recipient of the Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award. The prestigious award recognizes women photojournalists who document humanity amid conflict and challenges facing marginalized communities worldwide. The award was created in honor of German Associated Press photojournalist Anja Niedringhaus, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2014. International Women's Media Foundation (PRNewsfoto/The International Women's Media) Geai's winning portfolio, and the bulk of her work in photojournalism, includes reporting from the Central African Republic (CAR), Iraq, Israel, Palestine and Syria, as well as recent images taken during the war in Ukraine. Based in Paris, Geai's photojournalism concentrates on inequity, migration, politics and war especially how conflict impacts the most vulnerable members of war-torn communities; notably, women and children. "Photojournalists must see through the flood of misinformation, and the noise of social networks, to bring truth to our world," said Geai. "In my line of work, I've witnessed that we don't learn from war: we continue the habits of conflict again and again. I believe Anja's reporting pushed against mainstream news coverage; she pursued every angle in every dark corner. It's an honor to receive this award I am deeply grateful to the IWMF and the jury for their support." Two additional honorees were recognized this year due to their remarkable bravery and strength of their portfolios: Korean American photojournalist Yunghi Kim and French photojournalist Veronique de Viguerie. Kim's work, captured across four decades in Korea, Rwanda, Kosovo and the United States, charts fast-moving and complex news events captured during intense moments of global crisis. de Viguerie's portfolio challenges stereotypes surrounding women in Afghanistan, revealing the strength of a courageous community who are typically misrepresented. "Anja's legacy, simply stated, was to report where others may not look and bring women-led, visual journalism to people around the world" said IWMF Executive Director Elisa Lees Munoz. "The IWMF is proud to recognize Laurence, Yunghi and Veronique in this spirit and honor the importance, and nuance, of a woman's lens in the field of photojournalism." This year's jury included editors, IWMF board members and photojournalists Corinne Dufka, Whitney Johnson, Rene Jones, Benny Snyder, Sandra M. Stevenson and Bernadette Tuazon, who reviewed 78 qualifying portfolios from 35 countries. Following selection, the jury issued the following statement: "This year's winner and honorees demonstrated a remarkable breadth and depth of skill within their portfolios. Their collective commitment to different communities across time was notable, especially given the range of conflict they've experienced across several decades of work. Each was able to capture the raw emotion of their subjects particularly grief, struggle and triumph. Together they sought out stories rather than simply being present, which mimics the vision, style and work ethic of Anja. Our congratulations to Laurence, Yunghi and Veronique." Anja Niedringhaus was a recipient of the IWMF Courage in Journalism Award in 2005. The winner's $20,000 prize is made possible by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation. Honorees' images and captions, biographies, and headshots are available for media use with proper attribution; to inquire further, please contact Charlotte Fox (cfox@iwmf.org). Courage in Photojournalism Award Winner This year's winner, Laurence Geai, is a French freelance photojournalist currently working in Paris. Geai began her work in photojournalism in 2014, following a degree in international trade and professional experience in the fashion industry. Her career change led her to television broadcast reporting and then photography. Geai became deeply interested in the roots of war and traveled to the Central African Republic (CAR) early in her career, followed by Syria, Iraq, Israel and Palestine. She's also covered the consequences of the refugee crisis in Europe and France. In her work, Geai tries to meet the protagonists of each conflict, whenever possible. In 2022, she joined the agency MYOP and collaborates with several publications, including Le Monde, Paris Match, Polka, Elle, La Vie, Marianne, Telerama, Le Nouvel Obs, Le Pelerin, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, M le Magazine and others. Geai also photographs extensively for nonprofit organizations. In 2021, Geai won a World Press Photo award (third prize in the General Information category) for her series on the COVID-19 pandemic in France. Her other accolades include the 2020 Grand Prix Les Femmes S'exposent, a Reuters Grant, Wars first prize, third prize in the Sciences PO Political Photograph Contest, first prize in the Single Shot Award of the Festival Della Fotografia Etica and Polka Photographer of the Year. Geai remarked, "When you see people suffering, it's hard to take their picture you must learn to work amidst conflict with care. It's true that often you see the worst of humanity, but you also see the best, and that's what I hope to convey: what it looks like and feels like to get to the heart of a situation and tell someone's story to the world." Geai continued, "I am humbled to receive this award, especially in the year I first became a mother! My work can feel small compared to Anja's talent, but this award encourages me to carry the torch in her legacy." Twitter: @laurencegeai, Instagram: @laurencegeai Courage in Photojournalism Honorees Yunghi Kim is a photojournalist who has covered conflict and in-depth, issue-driven stories worldwide for almost four decades, including famine in Somalia (where she was held hostage ) and sexual slavery of the South Korean Comfort Women. Kim immigrated to the United States from South Korea at 10 years old. She graduated from Boston University in 1984 and began her career as a photographer at The Patriot Ledger in Quincy, MA, where she was the first woman photographer hired in the photography department. Kim then moved to The Boston Globe working as a staff photographer for seven years. In 1995 she became a member of Contact Press Images. Kim's professional accolades include the Olivier Rebbot and the John Faber Awards from the Overseas Press Club, the National Press Photographers Association's Clifton Edom Award and Joseph Costa Award, Pictures of the Year International (including Magazine Photographer of the Year 1997), the Visa D'Or for News, The White House Press Photographers, and World Press Photo, as well as a Distinguished Alumni Award from Boston University's School of Communication. She was also the 1993 finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Feature Photography for her work of Somalia famine. Kim has also served as a speaker at the Nieman Narrative Journalism Conference at Harvard University. She's a former member of NPPA's Board of Directors and a 2012 recipient of the United Nations' Leadership Award in the field of photography, awarded by The International Photographic Council. Kim's also served on the faculty of World Press Photo, Eddie Adams and Missouri Photo Workshop. In 2015, Kim instituted a grant to photojournalists The Yunghi Grant and in 2022, awarded $18,000 in grants to six photojournalists. Since its inception, the grant's funded $100,000 to working photojournalists. In 2021, Kim debuted a short documentary film, in collaboration with and directed by veteran photojournalist Bill Frakes, "Unflinching Grace," which looks back on decades of reporting by three women photojournalists. Twitter: @yunghi, https://twitter.com/cguzyInstagram: @yunghi.kim Veronique de Viguerie, a multi-awarded (one World Press Photo, two Visa d'Or, two Bayeux Prizes at the war correspondent festival, one Canon Prize for best women photographer, and one Lagardere prize for young photographer) is a photojournalist represented by Getty Reportage and Verbatim Photo Agency, and is based in Paris. De Viguerie began her study of photojournalism in England following the completion of a master's degree in law in France. In 2004, she spent three years working and living in Afghanistan. Since that time, she's covered stories from Iraq, Somalia, Lebanon, Kashmir, Mexico, Algeria, Guatemala, Pakistan, Niger, Nigeria, Mali, Syria and other locations. De Viguerie's work, "Afghanistan Insh'Allah," was exhibited in Visa pour l'Image in Perpignan, in Paris and at the Scoop Festival in Angers; "The Oil War in Nigeria" was exhibited at the Bayeux festival for the war correspondents. Her pictures are regularly published in Paris-Match, Le Figaro Magzine, the New York Times, Newsweek, El Pais, Stern, Der Spiegel, Geo, Marie Claire, Mail on Sunday, the Guardian and l'Optimum, among other outlets. De Viguerie aims to show the world not in black and white but in colors with all its complexities. She received wide recognition for photographing the Taliban in Afghanistan, pirates in Somalia, oil pirates in Nigeria and the Sicaraias (women killers) in Colombia and the Mouvement National pour la Liberation de l'Azawad (MNLA) in Mali, the Rebels in RCA. In 2006 de Viguerie published her first book, "Afghanistan, Regards Croises," with Marie Bourreau. She has since published "Carnets de Reportage du XXIe siecle" in 2011 and "Profession: Reporter" again with Manon Querouil Bruneel in 2015. In 2012, de Viguerie was chosen as one of the three photographers by HBO for the documentary series "Witness" based on her work following the Arrow Boys in South Sudan. Twitter: @vero2v, Instagram: @veroniquedeviguerie About the International Women's Media Foundation The International Women's Media Foundation (IWMF) is the only global organization built to serve the holistic needs of women and nonbinary journalists. We are a bold and inclusive organization that supports journalists where they are with awards, reporting opportunities, fellowships, grants, safety training and emergency aid. As one of the largest supporters of women-produced journalism, our transformative work strengthens equal opportunity and press freedom worldwide. Follow the IWMF on Twitter at @IWMF, on Facebook at @IWMFPage, on Instagram on @TheIWMF and on TikTok @theiwmf. Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/french-photojournalist-laurence-geai-receives-iwmf-2023-anja-niedringhaus-courage-in-photojournalism-award-301837425.html SOURCE The International Women's Media Foundation (Bloomberg) -- Schmid Group, a German provider of advanced electronics manufacturing techniques, will go public in New York through a deal with automotive veteran Ralf Speths blank-check company. Most Read from Bloomberg The merger with Pegasus Digital Mobility Acquisition Corp. will give family-owned Schmid a valuation of $640 million including debt, according to a statement on Wednesday that confirmed an earlier Bloomberg News report. Schmid, which started as an iron foundry in 1864, is based in Freudenstadt, a town in the heart of the Black Forest known for its fresh air and lush trails. It has developed equipment and manufacturing processes for printed circuit boards, as well as technology used to handle advanced materials for industries including renewable power and energy storage. The company has more than 800 employees. Its deal with Pegasus Digital shows how special purpose acquisition companies have shifted their focus toward growing, profitable targets after a record surge of SPAC listings in 2020 and 2021 helped drive deals with often wobbly startups. The Schmid family will maintain majority ownership and retain management positions after the listing on the New York Stock Exchange. Becoming an NYSE-listed company will further strengthen our position as a sought-after global solutions provider, while accelerating our growth trajectory and innovation for the benefit of all stakeholders, Schmids Chief Executive Officer Christian Schmid said in Wednesdays statement. Pegasus Digital raised $200 million in its October 2021 initial public offering, saying when it listed that it would search for a deal in sectors including next-generation transportation. The SPAC is backed by StratCap, an investment firm focused on digital infrastructure. Speth, who serves as chief executive officer of the SPAC, spent more than 20 years at BMW AG and later ran Jaguar Land Rover after its sale to Indias Tata Motors Ltd. Former Morgan Stanley investment banker F. Jeremey Mistry is the SPACs chief financial officer, while ex-Jaguar Land Rover executive Stefan Berger is chief investment officer. We are excited to partner with the Schmid team to further grow the groups platform and accelerate expansion into new attractive markets, including the automotive sector, Speth said in Wednesdays statement. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- Glencore Plc is getting closer to increasing its offer for Teck Resources Ltd., in a move aimed at ending weeks of limbo in the battle over the Canadian miners future. Most Read from Bloomberg The Switzerland-based commodities giant is working on a potential improvement to its bid that could be announced as soon as the coming weeks, according to people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified discussing private information. By raising its offer and ratcheting up shareholder pressure, Glencore is seeking to force Teck to the negotiating table, the people said. The bitter fight that transfixed the mining world moved behind the scenes since late April, when Tecks board was forced into an embarrassing reversal after failing to win enough investor support for a plan to split the company. Teck at the time reiterated its opposition to Glencores $23 billion bid, and Glencore repeated that it was willing to go higher, but there has been little public movement since then. Tecks Class B shares rose 0.3% to C$51.93 at 9:53 a.m. in Toronto. The situation remains fluid, and Glencores plans could still change, the people said. Even if it can deliver a big enough increase to win over Tecks shareholders, management and investors, there is still a potentially larger hurdle to face: Norman Keevil, the Canadian mining patriarch whose familys supervoting shares give him a veto on any big decisions, has come out strongly against a Glencore takeover. Read more: Teck Mining Magnate Stands Between Glencore and Mega Deal Still, an increased bid would add pressure on Tecks board, which has been forced back to square one on its strategy to split out its coal business after Aprils failed vote. While Glencore has been reluctant to boost its offer without some sort of engagement, some Teck shareholders have told the Swiss miner and trader they want to see a higher bid before they will be willing to exert more pressure in its favor, some of the people said. There have been no recent discussions between the two sides, the people said, as Teck refuses to negotiate about a deal it has consistently called a non-starter. Instead, the two companies have been traveling the globe to pitch investors on their competing visions for Tecks future, the people said, with Teck Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Price meeting with top shareholder China Investment Corp., while Glencore executives jetted to Ottawa to make their case to Canadian officials. Spokespeople for Glencore and Teck declined to comment. Calls to CICs office werent answered outside regular business hours. The fight over Tecks future reflects a revived appetite for dealmaking across the mining world, as well as the difficult questions facing companies with large coal operations. Read more: Teck Pulls Vote on Coal Split, Handing Momentum to Glencore An increased bid by Glencore would be the latest escalation in the battle that went public in early April after Tecks board and controlling shareholder publicly rejected its earlier proposal. The Swiss commodities giant offered to buy Teck and then create two new companies combining their respective metals and coal businesses. For Glencore, the deal would be company defining, allowing it to create one of the worlds biggest miners of metals while jettisoning its increasingly unpopular but highly profitable coal business in the process. For its part, Teck has spent years considering options for its own coal operations before announcing a complicated plan to spin off a coal company that would continue funneling profits back to the metals business for several years following the split. Teck has one of the best copper growth pipelines among all the big miners, but has been depending on profits from its coal business to fund it. The Canadian miner says it still sees a split as the best option, but now faces a race against time to come up with a new and simpler plan that wont leave the metals business exposed. It has said its working around the clock, including engaging with counterparties interested in buying its coal assets. Read more: Glencore and Teck Take Fight to Barcelona With Investor Pitches One interested buyer is Canadian mining financier Pierre Lassonde, who has expressed interest in acquiring the coal assets with a consortium of investors. Teck is also engaging other coal producers, as well as considering options including a stake sale or possible listing. Any takeover of Teck would face scrutiny from Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus government, which has considerable latitude to block foreign acquisitions and has recently clamped down on foreign investment in Canadas critical minerals industry. Trudeau and top government officials have been careful not to take a definitive stance on Glencores proposal but have indicated tacit support for the Vancouver-based company. (Adds Teck shares in fourth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- The latest artificial-intelligence hype is powering a massive surge in the stock market on bets that a new era of innovation is nigh. Most Read from Bloomberg Yet for money managers who weaponize computing advances for an investing edge, the era of ChatGPT holds a less lofty promise for now: Automating the grunt work. So-called generative AI is already helping to speed up mundane tasks known to crush the spirit of junior Wall Street employees, hedge funds say from reviewing reams of market research to writing basic code and summarizing fund performance. Chatbots could eventually help generate material efficiency gains and provide more rewarding work for their human overlords, possibly at the cost of jobs. But its early days yet. At systematic hedge fund Campbell & Co., its quants have spent months experimenting with using the tech behind ChatGPT to summarize internal research and write boilerplate code. Yet generative AI tools are proving no game-changer for their day-to-day investing methods, just yet. They are very strong for code completion, editing, finding errors and fixing bugs, said Kevin Cole, chief executive officer at Campbell. Our model would keep humans in the loop an assistant to the human helping to make their job more efficient. AI on Wall Street is a broad church that includes everything from machine-learning algorithms used to compute credit risks to natural language processing tools that scan the news for trading. Generative AI, the latest buzzword exemplified by OpenAIs chatbot, can follow instructions and create new text, images or other content after being trained on massive amounts of inputs. The idea is that if the machine reads enough finance, it could plausibly price an option, build a portfolio or parse a corporate news headline. As hedge funds experiment with the latest iterations of these tools, the ultimate goal is improving investing performance. For now, boosting productivity accelerating coding, research and client communications is the most obvious benefit. Its why the likes of Citadels Ken Griffin said in March the firm is negotiating an enterprise-wide license to use ChatGPT, betting that it will automate an enormous amount of work. At Man Group, one of the worlds largest hedge funds, Rob Furdak says ChatGPT can speed up the preliminary parts of research by reviewing a stack of academic papers on a particular topic and detecting basic patterns in data sets. A big part of the research process is cleaning the data, mapping it and then doing a preliminary analysis, said the chief investment officer for responsible investment. ChatGPT could say thats an interesting hypothesis, but here are other hypotheses you may want to investigate as well. The firm is also looking into automating the grunt work of investor relations, he said, since ChatGPT can easily explain performance by synthesizing market data and fund returns. Wall Street, of course, is already famously filled with computer wizards that populate algo trading desks, quant hedge funds and high-frequency market makers, and to them, ChatGPTs capabilities might not seem that new. The current frenzy has arguably been fueled as much by the sudden widespread availability of the tool as any advances in what generative AI actually does. Still, early studies suggest the chatbot does represent some steps forward. For instance, Fed researchers found it beats existing models such as Googles BERT in classifying sentences in the central banks statements as dovish or hawkish. A paper from the University of Chicago showed ChatGPT can distill bloated corporate disclosures into their essence in a way that explains the subsequent stock reaction. Academics have also suggested it can come up with research ideas, design studies and possibly even decide what to invest in. Peter Cotton, chief data scientist at Intech Investment Management, is among recent converts after testing the robot himself. He posted on Github a conversation he had with ChatGPT, where he used it to write code for extracting data and making predictions. My whole workflow has been dramatically changed, he said. Im surprised by just how much knowledge is stored inside. The technology isnt perfect, however. ChatGPT has been known to make up facts and spit out different responses to the same prompt, and is only trained on data up to late 2021. Meanwhile, in an industry where trade secrets are anxiously guarded, many are still hesitant about relying on external software. For that reason, Campbell has also experimented with an open-source and less powerful GPT model that it can run entirely within its own systems, said CEO Cole. We have to be very careful about risks of IP leakage with those types of tools because with ChatGPT, youre sending queries to OpenAI servers, he said. While hedge funds figure out whats possible with generative AI, the consequences for the industrys human workforce remain undecided for now. Greg Bond, chief executive officer of Man Numeric, Man Groups Boston-based unit, reckons the tech could be an opportunity for creative employees who lack technical expertise but can ask the right questions. If we assume research productivity is dropping more globally, you can either hire more people or you could have some digital researchers that are a force multiplier on your existing research and technology staff, Bond said. Ultimately what would be nice is if we could automate the innovation process itself. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Key Insights Significantly high institutional ownership implies Henry Boot's stock price is sensitive to their trading actions 51% of the business is held by the top 10 shareholders Insiders have bought recently A look at the shareholders of Henry Boot PLC (LON:BOOT) can tell us which group is most powerful. And the group that holds the biggest piece of the pie are institutions with 34% ownership. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company. Since institutional have access to huge amounts of capital, their market moves tend to receive a lot of scrutiny by retail or individual investors. As a result, a sizeable amount of institutional money invested in a firm is generally viewed as a positive attribute. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Henry Boot. Check out our latest analysis for Henry Boot What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Henry Boot? Institutions typically measure themselves against a benchmark when reporting to their own investors, so they often become more enthusiastic about a stock once it's included in a major index. We would expect most companies to have some institutions on the register, especially if they are growing. Henry Boot 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 Henry Boot's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story. Hedge funds don't have many shares in Henry Boot. Our data shows that Jonathan Sykes is the largest shareholder with 15% of shares outstanding. With 8.5% and 6.4% of the shares outstanding respectively, David Gladman and The London & Amsterdam Trust Company, Ltd. are the second and third largest shareholders. On further inspection, we found that more than half the company's shares are owned by the top 10 shareholders, suggesting that the interests of the larger shareholders are balanced out to an extent by the smaller ones. While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily. Insider Ownership Of Henry Boot The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO. 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 most recent data indicates that insiders own a reasonable proportion of Henry Boot PLC. Insiders have a UK91m stake in this UK318m business. It is great to see insiders so invested in the business. It might be worth checking if those insiders have been buying recently. General Public Ownership With a 28% ownership, the general public, mostly comprising of individual investors, have some degree of sway over Henry Boot. 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 Company Ownership Our data indicates that Private Companies hold 8.8%, of the company's shares. It might be worth looking deeper into this. If related parties, such as insiders, have an interest in one of these private companies, that should be disclosed in the annual report. Private companies may also have a strategic interest in the company. Next Steps: I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Take risks for example - Henry Boot has 1 warning sign we think you should be aware of. 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. 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 Did you know there are some financial metrics that can provide clues of a potential multi-bagger? Amongst other things, we'll want to see two things; firstly, a growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and secondly, an expansion in the company's amount of capital employed. This shows us that it's a compounding machine, able to continually reinvest its earnings back into the business and generate higher returns. However, after investigating Valuetronics Holdings (SGX:BN2), we don't think it's current trends fit the mold of a multi-bagger. Return On Capital Employed (ROCE): What Is It? If you haven't worked with ROCE before, it measures the 'return' (pre-tax profit) a company generates from capital employed in its business. To calculate this metric for Valuetronics Holdings, this is the formula: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.085 = HK$114m (HK$2.1b - HK$768m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2022). Therefore, Valuetronics Holdings has an ROCE of 8.5%. Ultimately, that's a low return and it under-performs the Electronic industry average of 15%. Check out our latest analysis for Valuetronics Holdings roce In the above chart we have measured Valuetronics Holdings' prior ROCE against its prior performance, but the future is arguably more important. If you'd like, you can check out the forecasts from the analysts covering Valuetronics Holdings here for free. What Does the ROCE Trend For Valuetronics Holdings Tell Us? In terms of Valuetronics Holdings' historical ROCE movements, the trend isn't fantastic. To be more specific, ROCE has fallen from 20% over the last five years. On the other hand, the company has been employing more capital without a corresponding improvement in sales in the last year, which could suggest these investments are longer term plays. It's worth keeping an eye on the company's earnings from here on to see if these investments do end up contributing to the bottom line. On a side note, Valuetronics Holdings has done well to pay down its current liabilities to 36% of total assets. So we could link some of this to the decrease in ROCE. Effectively this means their suppliers or short-term creditors are funding less of the business, which reduces some elements of risk. Some would claim this reduces the business' efficiency at generating ROCE since it is now funding more of the operations with its own money. The Key Takeaway In summary, Valuetronics Holdings is reinvesting funds back into the business for growth but unfortunately it looks like sales haven't increased much just yet. Additionally, the stock's total return to shareholders over the last five years has been flat, which isn't too surprising. All in all, the inherent trends aren't typical of multi-baggers, so if that's what you're after, we think you might have more luck elsewhere. On a final note, we've found 2 warning signs for Valuetronics Holdings that we think you should be aware of. For those who like to invest in solid companies, check out this free list of companies with solid balance sheets and high returns on equity. 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 If Your Homebuying Budget Is $500K, Where Can You Get the Most House for Your Buck? Purdue9394 / Getty Images The median home value in America is roughly $437,000, according to the St. Louis Fed, so if you have a half-million dollars to spend, you can look forward to $63,000 more house than the buyer in the middle. But your location will determine what that budget buys you. See: In Less Than a Decade, Youll Wish You Bought a Home in These 14 Metros Find Out: 3 Things You Must Do When Your Savings Reach $50,000 GOBankingRates spoke to a variety of real estate professionals to find out where shoppers with a $500,000 budget can get the most house for their money. The following locations arent necessarily the cheapest markets in America. There are places where you can get more square footage for less, but many are in declining cities suffering from depopulation, high crime, a lack of amenities and other drawbacks. In these spots, however, the quality of life is as attractive as the price. If You Missed the Boat on Austin, Consider San Antonio The booming real estate markets of Houston and Austin, Texas, grab the headlines, but in one Texas city, the boom is just beginning. For homebuyers with a budget of $500,000, the city of San Antonio offers plenty of bang for your buck, said Keith Sant, founder and CEO of Kind House Buyers. Located in South Central Texas and boasting a population of over 1.5 million people, San Antonio is the seventh-largest city in the United States. San Antonio is a great place to buy a home for those who enjoy outdoor activities and nature in fact, the city has over 200 parks and numerous green spaces. Delaney Juarez, a realtor in San Antonio, agrees. The median home price here is currently $320,000, so with a budget considerably higher than that, youll have options of the homes that are larger, nicer, and in more desirable areas of town, he said. $500,000 goes a lot further in San Antonio than it does in almost every other major city in the country, and whether youre interested in the suburbs, downtown living, or something more rural, San Antonio has appealing options in that price range. Zillow actually puts the home value much lower at just over $263,000, and its well under $200,000 in all but one of the nine neighborhoods it profiles. One example of what a half-million bucks can buy you in San Antonio is a 3,701-square-foot, five-bedroom, four-bathroom home with a three-car garage in a gated community listing for $489,900. Im a Real Estate Agent: Here Are the 6 Cities Where You Should Avoid Buying a Home This Summer Chattanooga Is on the Way Up With Lots of Room To Rise Several experts who spoke with GOBankingRates mentioned Nashville as a top spot to consider, but the brightest gem in Tennessee might be two hours southeast. Chattanooga is rapidly emerging as a prime location for homebuyers seeking exceptional value for their investment, said Brad Smotherman, a professional house flipper and podcaster based in Tennessee. Weve observed a surge of interest in Chattanooga, not just from regional urban centers like Knoxville and Atlanta, but from all across the nation. Theres a compelling confluence of factors at play. Smotherman said that the median home price in Chattanooga is $320,000 compared to the nearly $440,000 national average. With three times the national average job growth rate, the city of 182,000 ranks in the top 25 metro areas out of 338 and in the top 10 in the Southeast. He also touted the citys dynamic, family-friendly downtown area but you better act fast. Despite remaining one of the countrys best-kept secrets for a while, weve noticed that the word is spreading, Smotherman said. Home prices have seen up to a 23% year-on-year increase in certain areas. This underlines Chattanoogas emerging status as a magnet for savvy homebuyers. Chicago Is the Last of the Big Three Cities That You Can Afford If youre drawn to small towns or rural enclaves, you can get a big, beautiful home in a good neighborhood for well under a half-million bucks. But if you have big-city dreams, two of Americas three biggest urban centers are pretty much off-limits. According to Redfin, the median home sale price in New York City is just under $790,000. With a median sale price of $930,000, Los Angeles is even farther out of reach. But in Chicago, Americas third-largest city (by population), its just $350,000. Chicago is a great choice to buy a home with a budget of $500,000, said Colleen Cassel, a real estate agent with Compass. For $500,000 or less, you can buy a home with four-plus bedrooms, two-plus bathrooms, plenty of closet space, hardwood floors, and other must-have amenities. The Chicago area covers many different neighborhoods that offer good transportation, shopping, and a wonderful food scene. Two Door Group profiled six unique Windy City homes that are within a $500,000 budget. They included a two-story South Loop townhome in the Prairie District, a 1,500-square-foot West Loop penthouse condo with a private roof deck and a 1,468-square-foot brick single-family home in Forest Glen. Get More for Your Money in Indianapolis If Chicago isnt your speed, the surrounding region is famous for its low cost of living and affordable housing. When were talking about getting a great bang for your buck in real estate, the Midwest should be your go-to, said Humberto Marquez, a licensed agent with real estate investing company Awning.com. One of the choicest locations is less than three hours from the Windy City in its neighboring state to the east. Indianapolis has been a hotspot for real estate investors due to its low cost of living and strong economy, Marquez said. With a budget of $500,000, one can get a sprawling, 3,000-square-foot home in the citys best neighborhoods. That might actually be an understatement. A stately 3,572-square-foot, five-bedroom, four-bathroom stunner with a three-car garage is currently on the market for $449,995. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: If Your Homebuying Budget Is $500K, Where Can You Get the Most House for Your Buck? The decision to greenlight digital asset trading for retail investors in Hong Kong beginning tomorrow is a very big step for crypto in China, a country known for its unfriendliness to the sector, Justin Sun said. In an interview with Decrypt on Wednesday, the crypto mogul said that crypto exchange Huobi, which he advises, will begin onboarding Hong Kong residents on Thursday. The Hong Kong Monetary Advisory has said crypto firms can onboard customers during an 18-month grace period during which they will be expected to secure proper licenses. Hong Kong is allowing retail traders to buy and sell cryptocurrencies in a bid to rebrand the country as a digital asset hub. All crypto trading platforms and exchanges have to apply for a license under the new rules. The move comes after Hong Kongs economy and reputation as a fintech hub was shaken following COVID-19 lockdowns and earlier regulatory crackdowns, which scared many crypto startups away. I think this is a very big step for crypto in China, because this is, of course, the first jurisdiction in China to legalize crypto trading," Sun said. "And weve seen this has been experimented on for the whole China crypto operation. His Excellency Has No Status: Justin Sun Is No Longer a Diplomat He added that the beauty of Hong Kongs crypto policy was that even Chinese citizens could get involved and start trading on his exchangeas long as they also had Hong Kong residency. China has notoriously strict crypto laws: it banned digital asset trading and mining back in 2021, neutralizing the burgeoning industry. Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region; it is governed under the principle of one country, two systems, meaning it has some autonomy, but mainland China still has ultimate control over its laws. Its new law says that individual investors will be able to buy and sell bigger digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. But crypto companies must comply and register with the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC)or face penalties. Huobi is currently the worlds 21st biggest cryptocurrency exchange, with a 24-hour trading volume of $386 million, according to CoinGecko data. (Bloomberg) -- HP Inc. reported sales that fell further than analysts estimated, a sign the company continues to be hamstrung by the ongoing slump in demand for personal computers. Most Read from Bloomberg Revenue declined 22% to $12.9 billion on a worse-than-expected drop in consumer PC sales, the company said Tuesday in a statement. HPs Personal Systems segment fell 29% to $8.2 billion, compared with analysts average estimate of $8.4 billion. The macro situation is obviously impacting demand across industries, Chief Executive Officer Enrique Lores said in an interview. Still, Lores remains optimistic and the company affirmed its full-year forecast for cash flow. We think the second half will be stronger than the first, Lores said, citing a reduction of inventory with channel parters and the traditionally high back-to-school and holiday sales seasons. The shares declined about 1% in extended trading, after closing at $30.93 in New York. The stock has gained 15% this year. Free cash flow in the fiscal year ending in October will be about $3.25 billion. The guidance is the same as that issued in February and assumes improving demand for personal computers in the coming quarters. HP also narrowed its forecast for fiscal-year adjusted profit to $3.30 to $3.50 a share, topping analysts average estimate, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The PC market showed weak demand, excess inventory, and a worsening macroeconomic climate, from January-March, industry analyst IDC reported last month. Printing revenue slipped 5% to $4.7 billion in the period ended April 30. Analysts, on average, projected $4.6 billion. The print business should perform similarly in the second half of the year, Lores said. New data showing stability in hybrid work has some benefits for HP, Meta Marshall, an analyst at Morgan Stanley, wrote in advance of the results. Printing, however, remains a category where spending continues to falter, she added. HP reported profit, excluding some items, of 80 cents a share in the quarter, topping the average estimate of 76 cents. Adjusted earnings per share will be 81 cents to 91 cents in the current period ending in July, the Palo Alto, California-based company said. Chief Financial Officer Marie Myers said the company is on-track to deliver 40% of its $1.4 billion in planned savings by the end of 2023. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. The offices of gene sequencing company Illumina Inc are shown in San Diego, California Illumina CEO survived Icahn's challenge by more than 2-to-1 margin The offices of gene sequencing company Illumina Inc are shown in San Diego, California By Svea Herbst-Bayliss NEW YORK (Reuters) - Illumina Inc CEO Francis deSouza survived a challenge to his board seat from activist investor Carl Icahn last week by securing more than twice the shareholder votes than the number his challenger received, the company said in a filing on Tuesday. While the outcome of the vote was known, the tally had not been previously disclosed. It gives deSouza legitimacy to carry on after Icahn mustered enough shareholder support to oust Illumina's board chair John Thompson and install one of his board nominees, Andrew Teno. Icahn tried to replace both deSouza and Thompson on the board and said he wants former Illumina CEO Jay Flatley to return to run the company. The company's share price lost 18.4% in the last 52 weeks. A year ago deSouza was the company's top vote getter with 130,098,117 votes cast for him. This year he received 93,110,014 votes, beating out only Thompson and all three of Icahn's nominees. Teno received 77,769,509 votes while Thompson received 45,091,516 votes. The two other Icahn nominees received the fewest votes. Icahn criticized Illumina, including deSouza and Thompson, for its $7.1 billion acquisition of cancer test maker Grail. Illumina completed the deal over the objections of U.S. and European antitrust regulators, who are now trying to force the company to unwind it. Illumina lost $50 billion in market value following the deal as investors fret it may be forced to divest Grail at a big loss. Illumina has said it will expand its board from nine members to 11 and has interviewed chiefs of publicly traded companies with healthcare experience and chief financial officers of publicly traded companies with Wall Street experience to join. It will also elect a new board chair. Activist investors are increasingly calling for top executives to be replaced, with Insightia data showing they pushed for the removal of personnel at 60 companies last year, a 46% jump from the year before and the highest amount since 2017. Some CEOs who had activists join their board did not stay in the position for long. Unilever Plc CEO Alan Jope, for example, announced plans to leave three months after hedge fund Trian Fund Management's Nelson Peltz joined the consumer giant's board last year. Brian Niccol took the reins at Chipotle Mexican Grill in early 2018 after one of Bill Ackman's lieutenants at Pershing Square Capital Management joined the board in late 2016. Other CEOs have survived. Vicki Hollub remains Occidental Petroleum's CEO after the company cut a deal with Icahn over board seats in 2020 and after Icahn cashed out two years later. (This story has been corrected to say deSouza beat three, not two of Icahn's nominees, in paragraph 4) (Reporting by Svea Herbst-Bayliss; Editing by David Gregorio) FILE PHOTO: FILE PHOTO: A man walks past the logo of Vedanta outside its headquarters in Mumbai India poised to deny funding for Vedanta-Foxconn chip venture - Bloomberg News FILE PHOTO: FILE PHOTO: A man walks past the logo of Vedanta outside its headquarters in Mumbai (Reuters) - The Indian government is poised to deny crucial funding for Anil Agarwal's chip venture, Bloomberg News reported on Tuesday, a setback to the billionaire's ambition to build India's 'own Silicon Valley.' The authorities are likely to inform the venture between Vedanta and Taiwan's Foxconn that it won't get incentives to make 28-nanometer chips, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter. The venture's application seeking billions in government assistance hasn't met the criteria set by the government, the report said. The project is still in search of a technology partner and a manufacturing-grade technology license for the construction of 28nm chips, it added. Foxconn declined to comment on the report, while India's technology ministry and Vedanta did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. The setback comes at a time when Agarwal's metals and mining conglomerate is already grappling with reducing its significant debt load. Last year in September, Vedanta and Foxconn formally called Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd announced they would invest $19.5 billion to set up semiconductor and display production plants in the state of Gujarat, creating more than 100,000 jobs. "India's own Silicon Valley is a step closer now," Agarwal had said last year after the announcement. (Reporting by Anusha S in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber) (Bloomberg) -- Indonesia will consider new limits on exports of liquefied natural gas, a potential extension of trade curbs thatve previously disrupted nickel to coal and palm oil markets. Most Read from Bloomberg The nation wants to ensure adequate domestic gas supply and aims to balance local consumption and export commitments, according to Jodi Mahardi, Indonesias deputy coordinating minister for maritime sovereignty and energy. We believe that this policy will have a positive impact in meeting domestic energy needs, encouraging domestic industry growth, and maintaining existing export commitments, Mahardi said. Planned policies do not intend to reduce or stop gas exports as a whole, he said. Indonesia was the worlds sixth-largest LNG exporter last year, according to ship-tracking data. The country has been moving to prioritize gas volumes for its domestic market to help feed economic growth and after supply chain snarls combined with a post-pandemic industrial rebound last year to trigger a global squeeze on fuel supplies. New LNG export contracts or renewals of existing agreements could be prohibited to prioritize the needs of domestic consumers, Coordinating Investment and Maritime Affairs Minister Luhut Pandjaitan told a media briefing Tuesday, the Jakarta Post reported. Existing contracts wouldnt be impacted and a report is being prepared for President Joko Widodo, Luhut was cited as saying. The minister has recently also questioned plans to export electricity to Singapore. Roughly 10 million tons per year worth of LNG contracts with Indonesian suppliers are set to expire through 2030, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. That represents roughly half of the nations export capacity. Indonesia is expanding gas output, which should satisfy local demand and provide additional volumes for exports, Dwi Soetjipto, head of the nations upstream oil and gas regulator SKK Migas, said Wednesday. --With assistance from Ann Koh. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Intel inside? Chinese firm Powerleader's 'home-grown' chip suspected of being a rebadged microprocessor from US giant, test results show A purported new "home-grown" chip introduced by a Chinese computer hardware producer this month is suspected to be a rebadged integrated circuit (IC) from Intel Corp, according to a report by online tech news site Tom's Hardware, based on the results of a central processing unit (CPU) benchmark testing via online cross-platform utility Geekbench. Testing site Geekbench, a platform run by Canadian software developer Primate Labs, published the key parameters of Shenzhen-based Powerleader's Powerstar P3-01105 CPUs on May 26 and found the chips identical to Intel's Core i3-10105 Comet Lake CPU. The South China Morning Post was unable to independently verify whether the Powerleader chip was indeed an Intel IC in disguise. 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. Shenzhen-based Powerleader, which has no track record in semiconductor development, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday. Phone calls made to its head office in Shenzhen and sales service contacts went unanswered. A man holds between his fingers an example of Intel Corp's eighth-generation Core i3 microprocessor. The 10th generation of this chip, code-named Comet Lake, was reportedly rebadged as Powerleader's Powerstar P3-01105 central processing unit. Photo: Shutterstock alt=A man holds between his fingers an example of Intel Corp's eighth-generation Core i3 microprocessor. The 10th generation of this chip, code-named Comet Lake, was reportedly rebadged as Powerleader's Powerstar P3-01105 central processing unit. Photo: Shutterstock> Intel has not made any comments on Powerleader's chip. The Geekbench findings were widely reported by both Chinese and foreign media outlets focused on computer hardware. Should the Geekbench findings get confirmed, Powerleader's Powerstar CPU would mark the latest scandal to tarnish China's development of indigenous chips, following the infamous Hanxin case in 2006. A government investigation found that the developer of the Hanxin series of chips, Chen Jin of Shanghai's prestigious Jiaotong University, had "committed serious falsification and fraud", the university and state media said at the time. The Hanxin, or China chip, was initially hailed as the project that would make Shanghai one of the world's top chip manufacturing centres, when the breakthrough was officially announced in 2003. The project was funded by a special government programme aimed at nurturing major scientific and technological achievements. The new logo of Intel Corp, which developed the x86 computer architecture, is seen on a smartphone screen on September 2, 2020: Photo: Shutterstock alt=The new logo of Intel Corp, which developed the x86 computer architecture, is seen on a smartphone screen on September 2, 2020: Photo: Shutterstock> Powerleader, which has been manufacturing servers and personal computers for industrial users since 1997, had earlier announced in a press conference on May 7 the release of its first-generation Powerstar CPUs. In a statement at the time, Powerleader said its Powerstar CPUs were developed based on the x86 architecture, and suited for "government, education, energy, industry, finance, healthcare, gaming and retailing" applications. The company also launched desktop personal computers and workstations equipped with the Powerstar chip. These are manufactured at various production facilities in Guangdong, Sichuan, Hunan, Hebei, Guangxi, Shaanxi and Jiangsu provinces, as well as in Beijing. Intel's x86 is a family of complex computer architectures. Most desktop and laptop computers in the global market are based on various iterations of the x86 architecture. Before its Powerstar chip development initiative, Powerleader had long used Intel processors on its flagship computer products. The company is owned by Shenzhen Powerleader Investment Holding, which also owns the Hong Kong-listed PowerLeader Science & Technology Group Co. China has been trying for years to develop its own ICs, but this effort has been restricted by hurdles such as the lack of intellectual property (IP) and locally created instruction set architecture. As a result Intel's x86 architecture continues to dominate the computer market, while British chip design firm Arm's architecture leads in the mobile devices space. In some cases, Chinese companies buy chip designs from foreign companies. In 2016, cash-strapped chip maker Advanced Micro Devices received Washington's approval to license the design of its first-generation Zen x86 processors to Chinese chip designer Haiguang, which resulted in the system-on-a-chip called Hygon Dhyana. Fabless semiconductor company Zhaoxin, which was formed in 2013 as a joint venture between VIA Technologies and the Shanghai municipal government, manufactures x86-compatible desktop and laptop CPUs for the domestic market. Montage Technology's Jintide CPUs were also developed based on Intel's proprietary x86 IP cores, with some tweaks to secure data-processing safety. 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. Key Insights OCK Group Berhad's estimated fair value is RM0.49 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity OCK Group Berhad's RM0.38 share price signals that it might be 22% undervalued The RM0.54 analyst price target for OCK is 11% more than our estimate of fair value Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of OCK Group Berhad (KLSE:OCK) by taking the forecast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow. Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model. Check out our latest analysis for OCK Group Berhad The Calculation We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM73.0m RM59.0m RM51.6m RM47.6m RM45.5m RM44.6m RM44.5m RM44.9m RM45.6m RM46.7m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ -12.56% Est @ -7.72% Est @ -4.33% Est @ -1.96% Est @ -0.30% Est @ 0.86% Est @ 1.67% Est @ 2.24% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 11% RM65.5 RM47.5 RM37.3 RM30.9 RM26.5 RM23.4 RM20.9 RM18.9 RM17.3 RM15.9 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM304m 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 (3.6%) 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) = RM47m (1 + 3.6%) (11% 3.6%) = RM617m Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM617m ( 1 + 11%)10= RM210m 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 RM514m. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of RM0.4, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 22% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind. dcf Important Assumptions Now 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 OCK Group Berhad as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 11%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.978. 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 OCK Group Berhad Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry. Weakness Interest payments on debt are not well covered. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market. Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Threat Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow. Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year. Moving On: 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. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. Why is the intrinsic value higher than the current share price? For OCK Group Berhad, we've compiled three pertinent aspects you should further examine: Risks: Case in point, we've spotted 2 warning signs for OCK Group Berhad you should be aware of, and 1 of them can't be ignored. Future Earnings: How does OCK'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. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the KLSE every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here We think intelligent long term investing is the way to go. But along the way some stocks are going to perform badly. To wit, the Lotte Chemical Titan Holding Berhad (KLSE:LCTITAN) share price managed to fall 77% over five long years. That is extremely sub-optimal, to say the least. And it's not just long term holders hurting, because the stock is down 43% in the last year. The falls have accelerated recently, with the share price down 14% in the last three months. 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. Check out our latest analysis for Lotte Chemical Titan Holding Berhad In his essay The Superinvestors of Graham-and-Doddsville Warren Buffett described how share prices do not always rationally reflect the value of a business. 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. In the last half decade Lotte Chemical Titan Holding Berhad saw its share price fall as its EPS declined below zero. At present it's hard to make valid comparisons between EPS and the share price. But we would generally expect a lower price, given the situation. You can see below how EPS has changed over time (discover the exact values by clicking on the image). Dive deeper into Lotte Chemical Titan Holding Berhad's key metrics by checking this interactive graph of Lotte Chemical Titan Holding Berhad's earnings, revenue and cash flow. What About Dividends? As well as measuring the share price return, investors should also consider the total shareholder return (TSR). The TSR incorporates the value of any spin-offs or discounted capital raisings, along with any dividends, based on the assumption that the dividends are reinvested. Arguably, the TSR gives a more comprehensive picture of the return generated by a stock. As it happens, Lotte Chemical Titan Holding Berhad's TSR for the last 5 years was -68%, which exceeds the share price return mentioned earlier. And there's no prize for guessing that the dividend payments largely explain the divergence! A Different Perspective We regret to report that Lotte Chemical Titan Holding Berhad shareholders are down 37% for the year (even including dividends). Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 1.6%. Having said that, it's inevitable that some stocks will be oversold in a falling market. The key is to keep your eyes on the fundamental developments. Regrettably, last year's performance caps off a bad run, with the shareholders facing a total loss of 11% per year over five years. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. While it is well worth considering the different impacts that market conditions can have on the share price, there are other factors that are even more important. For instance, we've identified 1 warning sign for Lotte Chemical Titan Holding Berhad that you should be aware of. If you are like me, then you will not want to miss this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on Malaysian exchanges. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. 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 Jianpu Technology Inc. (NYSE:JT) Q1 2023 Earnings Call Transcript May 29, 2023 Operator: Thank you and welcome to Jianpu Technology, Inc. First Quarter 2023 Earnings Conference Call. All participants will be in listen-only mode. After today's presentation, there will be an opportunity to ask questions. Please note this event is being recorded. I would now like to hand the conference over to Mr. Lisa Lu. Please go ahead. Liting Lu: Thank you, operator. Hello, everyone, and thank you for joining us today. Our first quarter 2023 earnings release was distributed earlier today and is available on our IR website at ir.jianpu.ai, as well as on PR Newswire Services. On the call today from Jianpu Technology, we have here Mr. David Ye, Co-Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and Mr. Oscar Chen, Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Ye will talk about our operations and company highlights, followed by Mr. Chen, who will discuss the financials and guidance. They will all be available to answer your questions during the Q&A session that follows. Before we begin, I'd like to remind you that this conference call contains forward-looking statements as defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and current market and operating conditions and relate to the events that involve known or unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the company's control. These risks may cause the company's actual results or performance to differ materially. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in company's filings with the US SEC. The company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable law. Finally, please note that unless otherwise stated, all figures mentioned during the conference call are in renminbi. It is now my pleasure to introduce our Co-Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. David Ye. David, please go ahead. David Ye: Thank you, Liting. Hello, everyone, and thank you for joining us today. Despite the ongoing challenges caused by the lagging effect of COVID, our capital asset capital-light platform model, diversification, digital tech and AI strategies allowed us to benefit from the economic rebound in the first quarter. We are pleased to announce a robust 39.4% year-over-year revenue growth in the first quarter of 2023. At the same time, the net loss was trimmed by considerably 60.8% year-over -year, leading to a loss margin of 7.2%. The third consecutive quarter with a single digit net loss margin. Looking ahead to the rest of 2023, we remain committed to facilitating the digital transformation of our financial service providers and other ecosystem partners. Moreover, we are excited about the emerging trend in artificial intelligence driven by large language models and its massive application potential. We are actively exploring the feasibility of implementing such new technologies across all facets of our businesses. We drive the development of a tech-based inclusive finance model and empower our business partners more digitally, automatically and intelligently. We are focused on executing our vision of becoming everyone's financial partner and driving the digital transformation of the financial industry and beyond. Let me now go through three key performance highlights from the first quarter. First, we bolstered our technological and operational capabilities to better serve our partners and stay on the cutting edge of digital transformation. Our revenue from credit card and loan recommendation services during the quarter increased by 30.1% and 32.2% year-over-year respectively. The robust growth reflects our proven ability to support financial institutions with their digital marketing, user acquisition, customer retention and risk management. As a leading independent platform for discovery and recommendation of financial products and services, our years of experience have allowed us to gain deeper insights into industry trends. We continuously optimize our digital marketing and risk control models to empower financial service providers. We reached our operational experience and compliance practices recognized by our ecosystem partner. Therefore improving our omnichannel capabilities. Going forward, we will continue to forge stronger relationships with banks and other financial institutions, assisting them with digital transformation, refining marketing strategy and deepening our client engagement and risk management capabilities. Our commitment to being bank's trusted strategic partners will enable us to provide a high quality and efficient services to adapt to the challenging market demand. Second, our new business initiatives made significant progress, our continued efforts to drive new business initiatives beyond impressive results in terms of category expansion and delivering a revenue growth of marketing and other services by 80.8% year-over-year in the first quarter. Revenue contribution from marketing and other services for adjacent category also increased from 16.3% of revenue in 2022 to 27.0% in the first quarter of 2023. Our user acquisition and retention capabilities have also gained widespread recommendation from leading players in adjacent categories and industries. In the first quarter, we further strengthened our partnership in insurance, telecom, e-commerce and lifestyle sectors. In particular, we facilitated the acquisition of more than one million new users for leading telecom service providers showcasing our sophisticated digital marketing capability and proven social media and partnership programs. A successful deployment in covering a wider spectrum of users with various needs other than financial sectors. Third, our enhanced operational efficiency and optimized cost structure drove further margin improvement. With the lingering effects of COVID, our ROI remained very strong and stable with an overall year-over-year ROI of 126.3% in Q1. Office, Work, Laptop Photo by Vadim Bozhko on Unsplash We saw a year-over-year our improvement of 2.4%. For recommendation services, 4.3 percent points for the new business initiatives during the quarter. The stability demonstrates the resilience and the profitability of our solid business model, even in the face of challenging circumstances. Total operating expenses, including sales and marketing, R&D and G&A decreased by 11.4% year-over-year in the first quarter. This was driven in part by our targeted streamlining of operations in the strategic human resource allocation, resulting in further margin improvement and a decline in net loss. In Q1, our operating loss and net loss decreased by 56.8% and 60.8% year-over--year respectively. Operating loss margin and the net loss margin improved by 18.2% and 18.3% percentage points year-over-year during this quarter respectively. In particular, our Q1 net loss margin of 7.2% is the third consecutive quarter of single-digit net loss margin, reflecting positively our continued efforts of efficiency improvement and the cost optimization as well as our capability to turn profit in the near future. After sharing our business highlights in the first quarter, I would like to take a few minutes to talk a bit about our artificial intelligence initiatives. Being a financial product recommendation platform, build upon big data AI and one of our underlying technologies, we are excited about and we are excited and inspired by the large trend led by large language model and its transformative impact on AI development. Currently, we are actively implementing an integrating AI tools such as ChatGPT into our operations. As of March 31st, around 60% of our staff will utilize the AI tools and technologies to improve work efficiency and customer service. And this number continues to grow on a daily basis. In addition to this, we are also actively exploring ways to deploy AI across our businesses. For instance, our software-as-a-service based and customized risk modeling and management practice, we have developed a customized risk control model by fine tuning our external natural language processing model with our proprietary algorithm and data. This enables us to more efficiently deliver risk assessment analysis aligned with our client specific needs. In summary, AI solutions present an opportunity to enhance our products and service, delivering efficiency and effectiveness across various functions such as product development, creative design, marketing, operation, risk management and other functions. Finally, let me take a few minutes to share our views on the macro environment and our business outlook. Regarding the macro environment, the government and the regulators recently emphasized the revival and expansion of market demand with a particular focus on stimulating private sector consumption. As such, we anticipate the government's implementation of more effective and relaxed fiscal policy, stable and precise monetary policy and additional incentives to promote private and public sector investments. However, we did observe some volatilities since late first quarter predicting GDP growth rate in Q2 may slow down a bit sequentially. Under-performance in aggregate finance in the real economy in April versus market forecasts and the recovery of consumer confidence and household sector confidence is still subject to observation. Overall, because of lagging effect of COVID, we expect China's economic rebound will remain gradual throughout the first half of 2023 with a more stable footing in the second half. The recent inauguration of the National Financial Regulatory Administration also signals an imminent enhancement in the regulatory oversight of the financial sector, which will result in further tightening of pricing and operational scope of financial products offered by financial institutions. Despite this, we anticipate the government's continued emphasis on high quality economic growth will provide solid foundation for our business to grow. Overall, we believe our business is well positioned for a strong recovery, thanks to our efficient capital-light business model constantly innovating digital and AI-based technology, increasing diversification, revenue mix and ongoing efficiency gains. We were leveraging our market-leading position, advanced technology and proven track record of execution to facilitate the digital transformation of the economy and generating long-term value for our customers and shareholders. I will now hand over the call to our CFO, Oscar Chen, to run through our financials. Thank you. Oscar Chen: Thank you, David, and hello, everyone. As David mentioned earlier, we delivered strong results in the first quarter of 2023, supported by our capital-light business model and a successful diversification strategy. Our total revenues for the quarter increased by 39.4% to RMB289.4 million from RMB207.6 million in the same period of 2022. This robust growth performance was mainly driven by increased revenues from recommendation services and marketing and other services and to a lesser extent, the recovery of our big data and system-based risk management services. We sustained our market leading position in the recommendation business with total revenues from this business line increasing by 30.9% to RMB188.6 million in the first quarter from RMB144.1 million in the same period of 2022. Revenues from credit card and loan recommendation services increased by 30.1% and 32.2% year-over-year in the first quarter respectively. Credit card volume increased year-over-year by 22.2% to approximately 1.1 million and the average fee per credit card increased slightly to RMB114.3 in the first quarter of 2023. The increase in revenue from loan recommendation services was mainly driven by the increase of average fee per loan application by around 26.7% year-over-year to RMB14.7 in the first quarter of 2023 due to a more favorable product mix. Revenues from big data and system-based risk management services resumed growth by 11.9% to RMB22.6 million in the first quarter of 2023. The increase was mainly attributable to the increase in average spending per customer. Revenues from our marketing and other services increased by 80.8% to RMB78.1 million in the first quarter of 2023 from RMB43.2 million in the same quarter of 2022, primarily due to the increased revenue from other new business initiatives, further proving the success of our category expansion by applying technology and operational capabilities into adjacent categories. Moving onto costs and expenses. Cost of promotion and acquisition increased by 41.2% to RMB211.1 million in the first quarter of 2023 from RMB149.5 million in the same period of 2022. The overall ROI for recommendation services and marketing and other services improved to 126.3%. The ROI of recommendation services and marketing and other services recorded year-over-year increase by two percentage points and four percentage points in the first quarter respectively implying further improvement in our efficiency. Cost of operations remained fairly stable at RMB18.4 million in the first quarter of 2023 compared with RMB18.5 in the same period of 2022 as we continued to execute our cost optimization initiatives. Our sales and marketing expenses, R&D expenses and G&A expenses for the first quarter decreased by 6.2%, 15.1% and 13.4% year-over-year respectively. Measured as a percentage of total revenue, our total sales and marketing, R&D and G&A expenses declined to 28.9% in the first quarter compared with 45.4% in the same period of 2022, which represents a decrease of about 16.5 percentage points. Thanks to our continued efforts to optimize our cost structure and improve our productivity. Loss from operations was RMB23.6 million in the first quarter of 2023, down significantly from RMB54.6 million in the same period of 2022. Operating loss margin was 8.1% in the first quarter of 2023, compared with 26.3% in the same period of 2022. Our net loss and non-GAAP adjusted net loss was RMB20.8 million and RMB19.4 million in the first quarter of 2023 compared with RMB53 million and RMB50.8 million in the same period of 2022 respectively. As we continue to scale up and improve our efficiency, our net loss margin and non-GAAP adjusted net loss margin for the first quarter improved by 18.3 and 17.7 percentage points respectively compared with the same period of 2022. As of March 31, 2023, we maintain the solid balance sheet with cash, cash equivalents and short-term liquidity of RMB613.5 million. With that, I will conclude our prepared remarks. We will now open the call to questions. Operators, please go ahead. See also Top 15 Offshore Tax Havens in the World and 30 Most Forested Countries in the World. To continue reading the Q&A session, please click here. (Bloomberg) -- JPMorgan Chase & Co. said the banks China expansion is taking longer than expected, as it gears up to invest more in the Japanese and Australian markets to take advantage of growth potential. Most Read from Bloomberg In the current macroeconomic environment, we believe for a variety of different reasons that those two countries offer incredible opportunities over the coming few years, JPMorgans Asia-Pacific Chief Executive Officer Filippo Gori said in a Bloomberg TV interview at the banks annual Global China Summit in Shanghai on Wednesday. We continue to look at investing further in both Japan and Australia. In an earlier interview at the summit, JPMorgans China Chief Executive Officer Mark Leung said the banks expansion in China was taking more time. It will be a longer journey than we would wish to gradually build up scale and reputation to do business, he said. Global banks are reassessing their businesses in China as a sluggish economy, geopolitical tensions and intense domestic competition has pared ambitions to take advantage of the opening of the countrys $60 trillion financial sector to foreign firms. At the same time, markets like Japan have stood out as an alternative opportunity for investors wrestling with the uncertainty from the US-China strains, and domestic challenges in both the US and Chinese markets. Japans Topix Index reached its highest level since 1990 this month. Still, Gori said JPMorgan remained committed to the Chinese market where it has doubled headcount and quadrupled its licenses in the last four years and that the current slowdown isnt a concern long term. JPMorgans China business is seeing growth from wealth management fees, he added. Leung said one way JPMorgan hoped to distinguish itself from domestic peers in the Chinese market was on cross-border deals and transactions. Going cross-border as the differentiator is the key, he said. Theres also still healthy volume of initial public offerings onshore in China and Hong Kong, he added. Although dealmaking has slowed globally, Gori said the deal pipeline in Asia could recover in the second half of 2023 into next year. I believe that the second half of the year, whether its China or the rest of Asia Pacific, will have a flurry of activity coming up, he said. --With assistance from Amanda Wang and Adrian Wong. (Add comments from JPMorgans Asia Pacific head in second paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- South Koreas semiconductor inventory surged by the most in seven years, underscoring ongoing weak demand for chips despite the global boom in AI development. Most Read from Bloomberg Stockpiles rose 83% in April from a year ago the biggest increase since April 2016 and the index tracking inventories jumped to a record, according to data from Statistics Korea Wednesday. Meanwhile, factory shipments fell 33% from the year-ago period and production was cut 20%, the data show. Smartphone and PC manufacturers are working through a glut of inventory amid a slowdown in global demand for tech products. Apple Inc. shipments of Mac laptops plummeted 40% in the first quarter, leading a sharp decline across the personal computer market. Executives from Lenovo Group Ltd., Sony Group Corp. and Qualcomm Inc. the worlds largest supplier of smartphone processors have all recently said they expect inventories to remain high through the second quarter and markets to normalize later this year. Smartphones, however, may take longer to rebound, they said. Read more: Smartphone Demand Recovery Unlikely This Year, Sony COO Says Activity in South Koreas chips industry is an important gauge of global demand for electronics, as the country houses two of the worlds largest semiconductor companies, Samsung Electronics Co. and SK Hynix Inc. The vast majority of Korean semiconductor exports are memory chips, which go into everything from smartphones, laptops and digital cameras to connected cars and large data centers. China is the biggest market for those chips. The technology is also a major part of South Koreas economy, accounting for about 13% of total exports in April. (Updates with information on inventories in electronics sector from third paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. SINGAPORE --News Direct-- IACAPAP SINGAORE - Media OutReach - 30 May 2023 - Research has shown that most mental disorders develop in childhood and adolescence before the age of 25, with one-quarter of years lived by young people with disability due to mental and substance use disorders. To address this pressing concern and mobilise global efforts, the International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (IACAPAP), International Society for Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology (ISAPP), World Association for Infant Mental Health (WAIMH), and World Psychiatric Association Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (WPA-CAP) have jointly declared April 23 as the World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day (WICAMHD). This year witnessed the second annual WICAMHD event under the theme of Stand Against Infant, Child and Adolescent Trauma. Children and adolescents form one third of the world's population. Childhood and adolescence are foundational years characterised by growth, learning, and carefree exploration. However, many around the world are inflicted by trauma and crisis adverse experiences which research has shown to have long-lasting effects on their mental and physical well-being. Studies also show that about 15 percent to 43 percent of girls and 14 percent to 43 percent of boys experience at least one traumatic experience. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are also contributing factors in the development of mental disorders in adult years. The indirect and compounding effects of this is a ballooning economic burden on society, especially in the areas of healthcare and productivity loss. Children in war zones and natural disasters are particularly vulnerable. During the second annual WICAMHD event under, three renowned speakers shared their expertise on childhood trauma. Dr Dennis Ougrin, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Visiting Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Global Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London discussed the impacts of the war in Ukraine. Dr Fusun Cetin Cuhadaroglu, Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey presented on the traumatising effects of the recent earthquake in Turkey. Finally, Dr Michelle Miller, Director of Mental Health Programs, National Children's Alliance, United States highlighted evidence-based response for children subjected to trauma. This was followed by a panel discussion. In addition to the main event, several national organisations held events and advocacy efforts commemorating WICAMHD. These include the Indian Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health (IACAM), the Lithuanian Society of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (LVPPD), the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), the Austrian Society of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy (ASCAP) and the Section of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, College of Psychiatrists, Academy of Medicine, Singapore (SCAP). A recording of the event can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoOu7tm9oQU ABOUT THE ORGANISATIONS INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY AND ALLIED PROFESSIONS (IACAPAP) The International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (IACAPAP) mission is to advocate for the promotion of the mental health and development of children and adolescents through policy, practice and research. For more information, visit: https://iacapap.org/ INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY AND PSYCHOLOGY (ISAPP) International Society for Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology (ISAPP) is an organization established to work for the mental health of adolescents, and it is comprised of individual members devoted to working with adolescents, either in the field of child psychiatry and psychology or adult psychiatry and psychology. The International Society for Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology's (ISAPP) mission is to increase public and professional awareness about the mental health and development of adolescents all around the world. For more information, visit: http://www.isapp.org/ WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR INFANT MENTAL HEALTH (WAIMH) The World Association for Infant Mental Health (WAIMH) is a not-for-profit organization for scientific and educational professionals. WAIMH's central aim is to promote the mental wellbeing and healthy development of infants throughout the world, taking into account cultural, regional, and environmental variations and generating and disseminating scientific knowledge. WAIMH's mission promotes education, research, and study of the effects of mental, emotional and social development during infancy on later normal and psychopathological development through international and interdisciplinary cooperation, publications, affiliate associations, and through regional and biennial congresses devoted to scientific, educational, and clinical work with infants and their caregivers. For more information, visit: https://waimh.org/ WORLD PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATION CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRY SECTION (WPA-CAP) The World Psychiatric Association Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (WPA-CAP) section supports the overall mission and goals of the WPA in: - Working with its members and partners around the world to promote child and adolescent mental health and to encourage the highest possible standards of clinical practice and ethical behaviour in child and adolescent psychiatry. - Contributing to education programs and research, meetings, and publications to increase knowledge about child and adolescent mental disorders and skills in addressing them. - Disseminating knowledge about evidence-based therapy and values-based practice in child and adolescent psychiatry. - Being a voice for the dignity and human rights of young patients and their families - Upholding the rights of the child and adolescent psychiatrists where they may be challenged. For more information, visit: https://www.wpanet.org/child-adolescent-psychiatry Contact Details International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (IACAPAP) Ms Sue Wong info@iacapap.org View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/leading-child-mental-health-organisations-call-for-global-action-against-infant-child-and-adolescent-trauma-359780626 (Bloomberg) -- Lucid Group Inc. is raising about $3 billion in a common stock offering with the majority of the money coming from the electric vehicle makers Saudi owners after a more than 60% stock slump in the last year. The shares plunged more than 7% in extended trading. Most Read from Bloomberg The company announced the raise along with a corresponding investment by its owners Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund in a statement, confirming an earlier Bloomberg News report. PIF, the kingdoms largest sovereign wealth fund, is purchasing $1.8 billion of the stock in a private placement. The fund already owns about 60% of Newark, California-based Lucid, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Bank of America Corp. is acting as the sole book-running manager for the public offering. Lucid intends to use the net proceeds from the public offering, as well as from the private placement by its majority stockholder, for general corporate purposes, the company said. The shares fell 7.5% to $7.18 at 5:58 p.m. in extended New York trading after the report of the stock offering. PIF first invested in Lucid in 2018, and steadily accumulated more shares until it held a majority ownership when the startup went public in 2021 through a combination with a special purpose acquisition company. The EV makers market value temporarily catapulted above established rivals Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Co. that year, and the shares jumped in January this year amid expectation of a buyout by PIF. What BI Says: The offering at least temporarily undermines hope for a full privatization of the company. The additional funds may help solve financial flexibility issues in the near term, but Lucid may need additional support in 2024. Joel Levington, Bloomberg Intelligence The Saudi bet on Lucid includes plans to build an EV factory in the country. The kingdom is working toward rolling out hundreds of thousands of cars a year as it looks to become a hub for automakers. Its a priority for Saudi Arabia, which is trying to diversify its economy away from oil. Its target of making some 300,000 cars by the end of the decade relies on Lucid for half of that production. Lucid has stumbled recently as it grapples with heavy costs, production challenges and competition in the EV market. The company said in March that it would eliminate about 18% of its workforce. This month it guided toward the low end of its annual production plan following a slow start the year. The company has been trying to break out from a crowd of would-be Tesla Inc. competitors and firmly establish itself in the EV market. Its market capitalization had briefly eclipsed $90 billion during the market frenzy in 2021 and has since fallen to about $14 billion. Read More: Lucid Sees EV Production Toward Low End of Full-Year Target --With assistance from Sean O'Kane. (Updates shares, adds BI comment, Saudis push starting in fifth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. The man accused of killing CashApp founder Bob Lee just saw his defense lawyer leave the case Nima Momeni, left, has parted ways with defense attorney Paula Canny, who was representing him against a murder charge in connection to the fatal stabbing of Cash App founder Bob Lee, right. Gabrielle Lurie/San Francisco Chronicle via AP and Courtesy of MobileCoin Nima Momeni, who has pleaded not guilty in the murder of Bob Lee, has parted ways with his lawyer. Paula Canny, who'd represented Momeni, withdrew from the case, according to multiple reports. Attorneys Saam Zangeneh and Bradford Cohen confirmed to Insider that they're now representing Momeni. The tech consultant Nima Momeni, who earlier this month pleaded not guilty to a murder charge in connection with the death of CashApp founder Bob Lee, is splitting ways with his defense attorney. Momeni's now-former attorney, Paula Canny, pulled out of the case at a hearing on Tuesday in San Francisco, according to multiple news reports, including by the San Francisco Chronicle. Canny did not respond on Tuesday to Insider's messages left with her office, or to emails seeking comment. Momeni also has new lawyers now representing him: Saam Zangeneh, a criminal defense attorney in Miami, confirmed to Insider that he is representing Momeni along with Bradford Cohen, a criminal defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Cohen also confirmed his role in the case to Insider, but declined to comment further. Representatives for the San Francisco District Attorney's office did not immediately respond to Insider's emailed inquiries on Tuesday. In April, San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said that Momeni had been charged with murder and "that he personally used a deadly weapon (knife) in the commission of this crime." Momeni's not-guilty plea is fairly common in the early stage of proceedings involving a murder charge. The court proceedings, which have so far been marked by some delays and postponed hearings, have a ways to go as both sides work to shore up their case. Defense attorneys also often conduct their own inquiry into the facts of the case in order to develop defenses. Read the original article on Business Insider (Bloomberg) -- Mexican Coca-Cola bottler Femsa sold about 3.3 billion of its shares in the Heineken Group, divesting its stake in the Dutch brewer as it plans to focus on its main businesses. Most Read from Bloomberg Shares of Heineken NV dropped as much as 3% Wednesday morning, while Heineken Holding NV fell 0.9%. Femsas board of directors in February approved a plan to get rid of its Heineken investment, which it no longer considered an essential part of its strategy. The Mexican company is the largest convenience retailer in Latin America, operating about 20,000 stores and more than 3,600 pharmacies across the region. Heineken NV said Wednesday it bought 333 million worth of the stock. The Dutch brewer said it expects its purchase to boost its earnings per share. After the share sale, Femsa, whose full name is Fomento Economico Mexicano SAB, no longer holds any stock in Heineken NV or Heineken Holding NV except for shares underlying its exchangeable bonds. The convenience retailer may expand stores into areas near the US-Mexico border and will also look at potentially buying a regional chain in the US, Chief Executive Officer Daniel Rodriguez said in February in a meeting about its new strategy. Read more: Femsa Eyes US Retail Chain in Wake of $4 Billion Heineken Sale The Mexican company picked up a 20% stake in Heineken in 2010 but trimmed it to 14.8% in 2017. Femsa sold another stake in February. Last year Femsa struck a deal to buy Switzerlands Valora, which operates about 2,700 cafes and convenience stores, for as much as $1.2 billion to push into Europe. (Updates with Femsa strategy in sixth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- Shares in Mexicos Fomento Economico Mexicano SAB, also known as Femsa, jumped Wednesday after the company said it plans to divest a $1.4 billion stake in Jetro Restaurant Depot just after unloading the rest of its position in the Heineken Group. Most Read from Bloomberg Lea la nota en espanol. The sales are part of Femsas decision to whittle down holdings and focus on its core businesses as a Coca-Cola bottler and operator of convenience stores. Shares rose as much as 4.5% in Mexico City before paring gains. Itau BBA analysts said FEMSA is executing its divestment strategy faster than the market had expected. The Jetro deal on top of Tuesdays sale of a 3.3 billion stake in Heineken will push the cash pile on Femsas balance sheet to more than $8 billion, Itau said. The big question remains on capital redistribution, analysts led by Alejandro Fuchs wrote in a note. It is imperative for the company to announce a formal strategy. Femsa will receive the payment for Jetro in cash, with $467 million payable upon the close of the second quarter and the remainder payable over two years, according to a statement. The buyer was not identified. Femsa announced on Feb. 15 a strategic review of its business platform by its board of directors, aimed at focusing on verticals including its bottling unit and retail stores Oxxo. In that statement, the company said it approved a series of divestments, including its stake in the Heineken. Read More: Mexico Coke Bottler Femsa Sells 3.3 Billion Heineken Stake (Updates with analyst comment in paragraphs three to five) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Multichain Can't Find Its CEO as Company Loses Access to Its Servers Multichain continues to run into problems, now at the protocol level. Last week, rumors surfaced that Chinese authorities had arrested several Multichain executives, including Chief Executive Officer Zhaojun. Although the arrests still haven't been denied or confirmed by authorities, Binance was forced to respond to the news and suspend certain token deposits. Law enforcement officials are rumored to have taken control of a $1.6 billion wallet belonging to the company, according to several Twitter accounts. This weeks troubles began on Monday, according to Multichains Twitter account, which announced today the protocol has experienced multiple issues due to unforeseeable consequences. Despite the teams efforts to maintain the protocol, they said they were unable to reach CEO Zhaojun in order to access key servers. In the past two days, the Multichain protocol has experienced multiple issues due to unforeseeable circumstances. The team has done everything possible to maintain the protocol running, but we are currently unable to contact CEO Zhaojun and obtain the necessary server access for Multichain (Previously Anyswap) (@MultichainOrg) May 31, 2023 Todays alert was prompted by issues with a network of nodes within Multichain, known as Router5, affecting cross-chain services for several other blockchains. These blockchains are: Keychain, PublicMint, Dyno Chain, Red Light Chain, Dexit, Ekta, HPB, ONUS, Omax, Findora, Planq. The team has requested partners stop calling smart contracts running on Multichain, at least until they are able to obtain permissions and access to the protocols servers. Panic Over $1.5 Billion DeFi Bridge Multichain Shifts to Fantom Multichainknown as Anyswap before it suffered an $8 million exploit in 2021is one of the largest blockchain bridges in crypto, with total transaction volumes exceeding $100 billion earlier this year. The bridge facilitates the exchange of tokens across multiple networks, allowing for ecosystems such as Binance Chain, Avalanche, Polygon, and Ethereum to interact with one another. Conor Grogan, head of product at Coinbase, tweeted todays problems will affect only a small number of users, showcasing the low transaction output on the above-mentioned networks. Multichain going down is really going to impact the user of some of these chains https://t.co/2bHq1lLb6s pic.twitter.com/mysdjk8Unp Conor (@jconorgrogan) May 31, 2023 Uncertainty on Crypto Twitter is growing, however, with rumors surfacing that Chinese cryptocurrency exchange Gate.io is also suffering liquidity issues. The company has officially denied the allegations, although they have provided no evidence on the matter. Despite todays news, Multichains native token, MULTI, hasnt been affected over the past 24 hours, with a 3.1% increase, changing hands at $4.13. Since last weeks issues, however, the token has dropped nearly 19%, according to Coingecko. Nvidias CEO just gave a graduation speech about the future of work and said that A.I. wont steal jobs but someone whos an expert with A.I. will Students graduating this year will see A.I. transform the workplace as they enter it. They can ride the new technological wave to professional success or be left in the dust, Nvidias CEO told graduates at National Taiwan University. 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 Jensen Huang, in Taipei to give a NTU commencement speech on Friday, told students that the world is entering a new technological era that will surpass the invention of even the internet, the personal computer, and smartphones. A.I. has reinvented computing from the ground up, Huang said. In every way, this is a rebirth of the computer industry. Over the next decade, as graduates establish themselves in the workforce, over $1 trillion of traditional computers will be upgraded or replaced with ones that are better for A.I., he predicted. Chipmaker Nvidia itself touched a $1 trillion market cap on Tuesday after posting estimate-shattering quarterly earnings. The tech company has harnessed the A.I. boom to become the first chipmaker to break the trillion-dollar mark, as its graphics processing units are integral to the operation of generative A.I. platforms. Huang urged students to do the same as Nvidia by capitalizing on the coming shift. He acknowledged that the new technology will make many jobs obsolete, but said it will produce a spate of new professions including data engineering, A.I. factory operations, A.I. safety engineers, and prompt engineering, which involves crafting and entering requests for A.I. chatbots to generate specific responses including code or visuals. In his keynote speech at the COMPUTEX Taipei conference on Monday, Huang introduced an A.I. platform through which everyone can be a programmer. Called DGX GH200, the technology can produce code from natural language prompts, nodding to Huangs forecast about prompt engineering becoming a burgeoning line of work. Between the jobs that will be created and destroyed by A.I., there are many professions that will become hybrids of manual and automated labor. Hedge funds and investment banks are currently experimenting with automating time consuming tasks such as sifting through market research and summarizing funds performance statements. Greg Bond, CEO of investment firm Man Groups Boston unit, suggested that A.I. could amplify the capabilities of each human worker. If we assume research productivity is dropping more globally, you can either hire more people or you could have some digital researchers that are a force multiplier on your existing research and technology staff, Bond told Bloomberg. Ultimately what would be nice is if we could automate the innovation process itself. Similarly, Huang emphasized that everyone in business, from institutions to individuals, must take advantage of A.I. to supercharge performance. He told NTUs graduates that they would accomplish amazing things with the assistance of an A.I. copilot to augment their work. Huang concluded his speech by recounting decades of mistakes and business failures that Nvidia avoided by confronting errors as they arose. Retreat does not come easily to the brightest and most successful people, Huang said. Yet strategic retreat, sacrifice, deciding what to give up, is at the very core of success. He urged students to run, dont walk to greet change, prioritizing adaptability to the global technological revolution. 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 (Bloomberg) -- Nvidia Corp. Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang is heading to China to meet with tech executives in the worlds biggest chip market, despite rising tensions between Washington and Beijing, according to people familiar with the matter. Most Read from Bloomberg Huang, who headlined a trade show in Taiwan this week, plans to travel to China for the first time in years in June, said the people, who asked not to be identified because his schedule is private. Companies on his itinerary include gaming leader Tencent Holdings Ltd. and TikTok-owner ByteDance Ltd., one of the people said. Huang hasnt finalized his plans and details of his visit could change, the people added. Asked Thursday if he would head to mainland China after wrapping up the week in Taiwan, he told reporters: I havent decided yet. Nvidia is emerging as a critical player in the booming field of artificial intelligence, but its position in China has been complicated by geopolitics. US sanctions unveiled by the Biden administration last year prevent the semiconductor company from selling its most advanced AI chipsets to Chinese customers, including Tencent and ByteDance. Santa Clara, California-based Nvidia, which gets about a fifth of its revenue from China, quickly retooled its lineup after the ban to create new chips for the Chinese market that it says are compliant with the restrictions. Nvidias chipsets are considered the gold standard for training AI systems, like the large language model behind ChatGPT. Huang, 60, is hardly alone in courting Chinese customers. He joins a growing list of corporate chieftains taking advantage of Chinas post-Covid reopening to visit the worlds No. 2 economy, including Apple Inc.s Tim Cook, JPMorgan Chase & Co.s Jamie Dimon and billionaire Elon Musk. Despite a pandemic-era downturn, China remains a key market for many of the worlds biggest companies and many economists expect growth to re-accelerate over the course of 2023. Also on Huangs itinerary in China are EV makers Li Auto and BYD Auto, as well as Xiaomi Corp., a smartphone producer thats moving into electric vehicles, one person said. Huang didnt elaborate and an Nvidia representative had earlier declined to comment. A Li Auto representative declined to comment. Spokespeople for BYD and Xiaomi didnt respond to a request for comment, nor did representatives for Tencent and ByteDance. Huang has rocketed to celebrity status at least in tech circles over the past week. Nvidia forecast booming demand for AI chips that pushed its market valuation to $1 trillion on Tuesday, turning it into the first chipmaker to surpass that mark. At events in Taiwan this week, Huang was mobbed by the media and fans seeking selfies with the CEO. Nvidia retreated from the $1 trillion milestone on Wednesday, with its shares falling more than 5%. Its market valuation stood at about $930 billion. Executives from Chinese customers including Tencent have played down concerns that US chip sanctions will cripple their ability to keep pace with AI development globally. Many executives argue that they can make up for the loss of performance in part by employing more chips, though that could inflate costs. Nvidia was co-founded in 1993 by Huang, who still runs the company. It proved more successful than its peers at developing chips that turn computer code into the realistic images that computer gamers love, and rode out a wave of consolidation that saw its rivals acquired, bankrupted or merged into larger companies. Its processors are now the chips of choice for training and hosting AI services, which require immense computational power to crunch data. Its shares have soared since last week when it gave an AI-fueled sales forecast that shattered Wall Streets estimates. The stock continued to gain Tuesday after announcing several new AI-related products over the weekend that touch on everything from robotics to gaming to advertising and networking. Huang also unveiled an AI supercomputer platform that will help tech companies create their own versions of ChatGPT. Cathie Wood, whose flagship ARK Innovation ETF fund cut its holding in Nvidia in January, warned in a Bloomberg Television interview that the chip industrys boom-bust cycles pose risks. Read More: Nvidias Artificial Intelligence Rise Explained in Three Charts Huang unveiled a series of new AI products on Monday at the Computex trade show in Taiwan this week. The wide-ranging lineup included a new robotics design, gaming capabilities, advertising services and a networking technology. --With assistance from Chunying Zhang, Vlad Savov, Danny Lee, Debby Wu, Linda Lew, Zheping Huang and Nick Turner. (Updates with Huangs comments from the sixth paragraph) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Nvidia founder and CEO Jensen Huang Jen-hsun said China's ability to catch up in chip technology should not be underrated, as the country pours massive resources into shoring up the sector amid mounting export restrictions by the US and its allies. The world's most valuable chip maker, which has been barred by Washington from selling its most advanced chips to customers in China, must "run very fast" to stay competitive, Huang told reporters at a round table at Computex Taipei, an annual technology industry expo, on Tuesday. "Whatever the regulations are ... of course we will absolutely comply, but I think China will use the opportunity to foster their local entrepreneurs, and that's why there are so many graphics processing unit start-ups in China," Huang was quoted as saying by Nikkei Asia and several Taiwanese media outlets. 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. Graphics processing units (GPUs) have simpler architecture than central processing units at the heart of most personal computers, making the former easier to design. "If you weren't in the chip industry and you wanted to start a chip company, what company would you start? You would start a GPU [company]. And there's a whole bunch of GPU start-ups in China," Huang reportedly said. "The amount of resources that has been dedicated to this area in China ... is quite massive, so you can't underestimate them." Huang made similar remarks in a recent interview with the Financial Times, warning the Biden administration to be "careful" with its semiconductor restrictions, because "if [China] can't buy from ... the United States, they'll just build it themselves". To comply with Washington's rules, Nvidia currently offers lower-end versions of its most advanced GPUs that are tailor-made for the mainland Chinese market. An Nvidia GPU seen during Computex Taipei 2023. Photo: Bloomberg alt=An Nvidia GPU seen during Computex Taipei 2023. Photo: Bloomberg> Huang kicked off his two-week tour in Taiwan on Saturday at the National Taiwan University in Taipei, where he gave a commencement address. He encouraged graduating students to "run hard" and seize the "golden opportunities" of an AI revolution, which he expects to change every business. In a two-hour keynote speech at Computex Taipei on Monday, Huang unveiled a series of new products and services related to AI. They include an AI supercomputer platform called DGX GH200, which can help tech companies build large language models for generative AI tools like OpenAI's ChatGPT. Google Cloud, Meta Platforms and Microsoft are expected to be among the first users. During his whirlwind trip, Huang also met Morris Chang, founder of the world's largest contract chip maker, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, which builds Nvidia's flagship chips such as the H100. The two companies would see "substantial" growth in business cooperation over the next decade, driven by accelerated computing and generative AI, Huang was quoted as saying by Nikkei Asia. 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. (Bloomberg) -- Oil extended this weeks decline as Chinas lackluster economic recovery outweighed an optimistic US jobs report. Most Read from Bloomberg West Texas Intermediate declined more than 1% to settle near $68 a barrel. Fresh data showed manufacturing activity in China fell at a faster pace than the previous month, prompting fears that a post-Covid bounce had petered out. Futures attempted a rally after US figures revealed job openings unexpectedly surged but were unable to withstand mounting disappointment with China and a stronger dollar. Sentiment remains extremely bearish and positioning reflects limited risk appetite in the commodity into the weekend with the OPEC+ meeting, said Rebecca Babin, a senior energy trader at CIBC Private Wealth. Most market watchers surveyed by Bloomberg expect the oil-producing coalition to keep output unchanged at this weekends meeting in Vienna, chiming with Goldman Sachs Group Inc.s view. Fundamentals dont support a case for curbs, although a weak macroeconomic environment does, according to Standard Chartered Plc. RBC Capital Markets LLC said a lean cut may be agreed upon. WTI has declined by around 15% this year as concern about Chinas economic recovery and tighter monetary policy from the Federal Reserve weigh on the demand outlook. The wrangling over the US debt ceiling has added to bearish sentiment. To get Bloombergs Energy Daily newsletter direct into your inbox, click here. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Andrey Rudakov/Bloomberg Oil prices tumbled Tuesday as worries about demand for the commodity accelerated. West Texas Intermediate crude fell as much as 5% to $69.02 per barrel. Two of nine Republicans on the House Rules Committee have signaled opposition to the debt ceiling deal. Oil prices tumbled Tuesday as worries about demand accelerated on concerns that a weekend deal to raise the $31 trillion US debt ceiling will be derailed. US and international oil prices each dropped to their lowest prices since May 5. West Texas Intermediate crude fell as much as 5% to $69.02 per barrel. Brent crude lost as much as 4.9% when it hit $73.16. Price declines were later trimmed to around 4.6% each. The oil market appeared nervous about potential signs of rebellion within the Republican ranks over the debt deal House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy reached in principle with the White House over the weekend. The Fiscal Responsibility Act, if passed, would limit US baseline spending for two years and raise the debt ceiling into 2025. But several Freedom Caucus members were among the GOP lawmakers who have indicated they won't back the agreement, Politico reported Tuesday. And CNBC reported that two of nine Republican members on the House Rules Committee have signaled their opposition to bringing the proposal to the House floor for vote on Tuesday. "Oil prices remain stuck while awaiting the response from Congress on the debt ceiling deal," Saxo Bank strategists said in a note early Tuesday. Oil prices were coming off a weekly win supported by a warning from Saudi Arabia's energy minister that short speculators should "watch out." Saxo Bank said the warning helped increase net long positions in Brent by the most in two months in the week to May 23. The Treasury Department on Friday revised its outlook on when the government will run out of cash to pay bills, to June 5 from June 1. OPEC will hold its June meeting just before that deadline, and investors could see the group announce production cuts. Read the original article on Business Insider VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 31, 2023 / (TSXV:OGN)(OTCQX:OGNRF) Orogen Royalties Inc. ("Orogen" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has signed a purchase and sale agreement (the "Agreement") with Gold Plata Mineral Investments Corp. ("Gold Plata"), to acquire a 1% net smelter return ("NSR") royalty interest in the La Rica copper-gold project in northern Colombia. Highlights La Rica is a 160 square-kilometre land package located in the Mande Batholith, the northernmost segment of the prolific Andean copper belt that extends from Chile through to Panama. The royalty Area of Interest ("AOI") contains at least four undrilled copper-gold porphyry targets within a fifteen kilometre long trend of anomalous copper geochemistry on the western margin of the Mande Batholith. La Rica contains outcropping chalcopyrite, bornite and gold mineralization related to potassically altered quartz diorite porphyries. The namesake La Rica zone is defined by 118 samples taken over a 600 metre by 500 metre area averaging 0.76% copper and 0.47 g/t gold. La Rica is currently held by a private exploration company ("Private Company") with land holdings in Colombia. "The acquisition of a 1% NSR royalty on the La Rica project aligns with Orogen's strategy of using its technical expertise to identify low-cost royalties with significant exploration potential that could provide strong risk-adjusted returns," commented Orogen CEO Paddy Nicol. "La Rica represents a rare opportunity for exposure to an exploration target in the Mande Batholith, an important and underexplored component of the South American Eocene-Oligocene arc that hosts giant porphyry copper districts including Escondida, Chuquicamata, Colluasi and Cobre Panama." About the La Rica Project The Mande Batholith (Figure 1) was first identified as prospective for porphyry copper targets by a regional stream sediment survey carried out by Ingeominas (Colombian Geological Survey) and the United Nations in 1970. The La Rica project was one of the priority porphyry copper targets recognized in this study. La Rica occurs on the western margin of the Mande Batholith proximal to the Murindo Fault, a regional-scale arc-parallel fault system that can be traced down the axis of the Mande Batholith (Figure 2). The Murindo Fault is considered analogous to the Domeyko Fault System (West Fissure) of northern Chile that localizes Eocene-Oligocene aged copper deposits. Figure 1 - La Rica location in the Mande Batholith in Colombia The La Rica project hosts an elongate cluster of porphyry copper-gold centres containing at least four distinct porphyry centres. The outcropping mineralization comprises chalcopyrite, bornite and gold and occurs in quartz diorite porphyries with intense potassic alteration and hydrothermal magnetite. A large soil geochemical grid combined with rock and stream sediment sampling over the La Rica target displays fifteen kilometres of copper anomalism entirely within Orogen's AOI (Figure 2). The namesake La Rica zone became a focus of early work with rock sampling, 118 samples, over an area of 500 metres by 600 metres averaging 0.76% copper and 0.47 g/t gold coincident with a historic IP chargeability anomaly. There has been no historic drilling on the La Rica property. Terms of the Agreement Under the terms of the Agreement, Orogen has acquired a 1% NSR royalty interest from Gold Plata pursuant to the La Rica royalty agreement (the "Royalty Agreement") with Private Company for US$1.75 million and a one-time contingent payment of US$5 million subject to either one of the following events: Upon the exercise of a back-in right associated with the La Rica project whereby Orogen receives a US$6 million payment from Private Company; or Upon the exercise of the buydown right, by the Private Company, whereby half (0.5% NSR royalty) of the 1.0% NSR royalty on the La Rica project can be purchased from Orogen for US$15 million. Figure 2: Location of the La Rica project within the Mande Batholith with composite geochemistry: Rocks (squares), stream sediments (circles) and soils (triangles). Qualified Person Statement All new technical data, as disclosed in this press release, has been verified by Laurence Pryer, Ph.D., P.Geo., VP. Exploration for Orogen. Dr. Pryer is a qualified person as defined under the terms of National Instrument 43-101. Certain technical disclosure in this release is a summary of previously released information and the Company is relying on the interpretation provided by the relevant referenced partner. Additional information can be found on the links in the footnotes or on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). About Orogen Royalties Inc. Orogen Royalties Inc. is focused on organic royalty creation and royalty acquisitions on precious and base metal discoveries in western North America. The Company's royalty portfolio includes the Ermitano gold and silver mine in Sonora, Mexico (2% NSR royalty) being mined by First Majestic Silver Corp. and the Silicon gold project (1% NSR royalty) in Nevada, USA, being advanced by AngloGold Ashanti NA. The Company is well financed with several projects actively being explored under joint ventures. On Behalf of the Board OROGEN ROYALTIES INC. Paddy Nicol President & CEO To find out more about Orogen, please contact Paddy Nicol, President & CEO at 604-248-8648, and Marco LoCascio, Vice President, Corporate Development at 604-248-8648. Visit our website at www.orogenroyalties.com. Orogen Royalties Inc. 1015 - 789 West Pender Street Vancouver, BC Canada V6C 1H2 info@orogenroyalties.com Forward Looking Information This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward looking statements". All statements in this presentation, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that Orogen Royalties Inc. (the "Company") expect to occur, are forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although the Company believe the expectations expressed in such forward looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. SOURCE: Orogen Royalties Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/758442/Orogen-Royalties-Acquires-a-Copper-Royalty-in-Colombia (Bloomberg) -- Peru is tapping global investors for the first time this year, raising $2.5 billion through a sustainability bond to buy back existing sovereign debt and finance government spending. Sovereign bonds gained. Most Read from Bloomberg The sol-denominated notes mature in 2033 and revenue will be used to fund green and social expenditures, according to person familiar with the matter. The bond was launched at a yield of 7.35%, slightly below the initial guidance of 7.7%, the person said. The South American nation is looking to buy back existing sol-denominated sovereign bonds that are coming due this year, 2024, 2026 and 2028, according to a statement by the government. It is also offering to swap those notes with the newly-issued bonds. Its unclear how much the government will either buy back or aims to swap. Citigroup, HSBC, JPMorgan & Chase and Banco Santander are managers for the bond sale. So far, it looks appealing, said William Snead, an analyst at BBVA in New York. Investors are getting a premium for tendering the old bonds. So it looks like a win-win scenario for investors. Sol-denominated notes due in 2024 rose more than 0.6 cents on the sol Wednesday to 99.9 cents, the most since November, according to indicative pricing data by Bloomberg In general, Perus sol-denominated sovereign bonds have returned 8.76% this year, outperforming most emerging-market local-currency debt, according to data compiled on a Bloomberg index. The countrys dollar notes, meantime, have handed investors 3.27% returns this year, beating the average of 2.21% among peers. Peru also said Wednesday that it planned to buy back existing dollar-denominated bonds that mature from 2025 to 2027, as well as those due in 2030 and 2031. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. If we want to find a potential multi-bagger, often there are underlying trends that can provide clues. In a perfect world, we'd like to see a company investing more capital into its business and ideally the returns earned from that capital are also increasing. Ultimately, this demonstrates that it's a business that is reinvesting profits at increasing rates of return. Having said that, from a first glance at Pestech International Berhad (KLSE:PESTECH) we aren't jumping out of our chairs at how returns are trending, but let's have a deeper look. Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE) Just to clarify if you're unsure, ROCE is a metric for evaluating how much pre-tax income (in percentage terms) a company earns on the capital invested in its business. The formula for this calculation on Pestech International Berhad is: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.0026 = RM4.2m (RM2.9b - RM1.3b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2022). So, Pestech International Berhad has an ROCE of 0.3%. In absolute terms, that's a low return and it also under-performs the Construction industry average of 5.5%. Check out our latest analysis for Pestech International Berhad roce In the above chart we have measured Pestech International Berhad's prior ROCE against its prior performance, but the future is arguably more important. If you'd like, you can check out the forecasts from the analysts covering Pestech International Berhad here for free. The Trend Of ROCE In terms of Pestech International Berhad's historical ROCE movements, the trend isn't fantastic. Over the last five years, returns on capital have decreased to 0.3% from 16% five years ago. And considering revenue has dropped while employing more capital, we'd be cautious. This could mean that the business is losing its competitive advantage or market share, because while more money is being put into ventures, it's actually producing a lower return - "less bang for their buck" per se. On a side note, Pestech International Berhad's current liabilities are still rather high at 44% of total assets. This can bring about some risks because the company is basically operating with a rather large reliance on its suppliers or other sorts of short-term creditors. Ideally we'd like to see this reduce as that would mean fewer obligations bearing risks. The Bottom Line We're a bit apprehensive about Pestech International Berhad because despite more capital being deployed in the business, returns on that capital and sales have both fallen. We expect this has contributed to the stock plummeting 81% during the last five years. With underlying trends that aren't great in these areas, we'd consider looking elsewhere. If you'd like to know more about Pestech International Berhad, we've spotted 3 warning signs, and 2 of them are concerning. For those who like to invest in solid companies, check out this free list of companies with solid balance sheets and high returns on equity. 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 (Bloomberg) -- Chewy Inc. stock surged the most in almost four years after the pet-products retailer beat sales expectations. It got a boost from a recurring-purchase program. Most Read from Bloomberg Net sales per active customer and sales through Autoship, which offers prescription refills, discounts and scheduled deliveries of supplies, both reached new record highs for the company and continues to fuel customer loyalty and spend toward our platform, Chewy Chief Executive Officer Sumit Singh said in a statement. Net sales per active customer exceeded $500, up nearly 15% from last year. Chewy also raised its full-year sales guidance. The shares powered as much as 27% higher on Thursday, the biggest gain since 2019. The move pared the stocks year-to-date decline to about 2%. Chewy said in a shareholder letter that it looks forward to steady growth in profitability through new initiatives, including the companys first international expansion, into Canada. Chewy noted they have not seen any trade down or slowing purchase activity during the past few months which is a contrast to the broader retail backdrop, Citigroup analyst Steven Zaccone said in a research note. That contrasts sharply with pet-retail rival Petco Health & Wellness Co., whose stock tumbled the most on record after results last week showed that spending on discretionary items like pet collars and leashes declined. Petco CEO Ron Coughlin said at the time that the behavior is consistent with past times of economic uncertainty. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. [Source] The Senate of the Philippines has approved a bill to grant Filipino citizenship to Canadian vlogger Kyle Douglas Jennerman. Jennerman, who is behind the YouTube channel BecomingFilipino, now awaits President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to sign House Bill 7185 into law to officially become a Filipino. On Monday, the senate unanimously approved the bill, which was passed from the House of Representatives, during a third and final reading. Jennerman took to Instagram to celebrate the news. I couldn't be more excited. Being 35 years old right now... in the prime of my life. I am filled with so much inspiration and motivation. So much love! Being immersed and connected with the Filipino community both here in the country and around the world. It just fills me with so much optimism... the positive things we can do together. I am so grateful. The things people shared about #BecomingFilipino in Senate yesterday... it was beyond overwhelming. I need a few days to reflect right now. More from NextShark: Biden nominates Judge Florence Pan for appellate court seat vacated by Ketanji Brown Jackson https://www.instagram.com/p/Cs2g-o2Sa98/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MmJiY2I4NDBkZg== Jennerman, who is more popularly known as Kulas, has amassed over a million subscribers on his YouTube channel, where he has documented his adventures in the Philippines since 2013. From trying exotic food to speaking fluent Tagalog, Jennerman has gained appreciation for Filipino culture through immersion. More from NextShark: Former Radio 1 DJ who preyed on Filipino children called very embodiment of depravity by judge He really wants to be a Filipino. And he is not some fair-weather friend who loves us only for our scenic spots and hospitality, but would turn a blind eye to our identity, culture, and our language. He freely chose to enter into our world, Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, who co-sponsored the bill, told Inquirer.net. Jennerman meets the countrys criteria for naturalization. He has lived in the country for at least 10 years, and he also demonstrates proficiency in English and Filipino. More from NextShark: Comic-Con sparks backlash, debate over use of controversial term Filipinx You have already done so much to promote our country and our culture to Filipinos and foreign nationals alike. We look forward to your future contributions as you champion the country that you now call your home, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said. Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark! During the Chinese Exclusion Act, an ingenious backwoods chef from China helped make Yosemite National Park a reality Key Insights The projected fair value for Ryman Healthcare is NZ$8.21 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Ryman Healthcare's NZ$6.28 share price signals that it might be 24% undervalued Analyst price target for RYM is NZ$7.80 which is 4.9% below our fair value estimate How far off is Ryman Healthcare Limited (NZSE:RYM) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. We will take advantage of the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model for this purpose. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine. Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model. See our latest analysis for Ryman Healthcare The Calculation We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Levered FCF (NZ$, Millions) NZ$278.3m NZ$292.8m NZ$305.3m NZ$316.5m NZ$326.8m NZ$336.4m NZ$345.6m NZ$354.5m NZ$363.2m NZ$372.0m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ 6.44% Est @ 5.18% Est @ 4.29% Est @ 3.67% Est @ 3.24% Est @ 2.94% Est @ 2.73% Est @ 2.58% Est @ 2.47% Est @ 2.40% Present Value (NZ$, Millions) Discounted @ 7.6% NZ$259 NZ$253 NZ$245 NZ$236 NZ$227 NZ$217 NZ$207 NZ$197 NZ$188 NZ$179 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = NZ$2.2b The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.2%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 7.6%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2032 (1 + g) (r g) = NZ$372m (1 + 2.2%) (7.6% 2.2%) = NZ$7.1b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= NZ$7.1b ( 1 + 7.6%)10= NZ$3.4b 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 NZ$5.6b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of NZ$6.3, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 24% discount to where the stock price trades currently. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent. dcf 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 Ryman Healthcare 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 7.6%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.902. 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 Ryman Healthcare Strength Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows. Weakness Earnings declined over the past year. Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Healthcare market. Shareholders have been diluted in the past year. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the New Zealander market. Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%. Significant insider buying over the past 3 months. Threat Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year. Next Steps: Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. Can we work out why the company is trading at a discount to intrinsic value? For Ryman Healthcare, there are three fundamental aspects you should further research: Risks: You should be aware of the 5 warning signs for Ryman Healthcare we've uncovered before considering an investment in the company. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for RYM'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. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the NZSE every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Join A Paid User Research Session Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here JLL serving as selling agent for one of the most exciting development sites in Ireland DUBLIN, May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A major landbank between the runways at Dublin Airport in north County Dublin, Ireland is this week being placed on the market by JLL. The lands are privately held by the long-term owners. The infrastructural land which is available for sale by private treaty in its entirety or in three separate lots, totals approximately 260 acres. 260 acres available for sale at Dublin Airport Of strategic international importance and paramount to the short, medium and long-term growth of Dublin airport; the lands, which are already earmarked to address emerging and existing demand at the airport, will allow for its phased expansion, while avoiding passenger disruption. They are integral to future passenger growth, airport capacity and passenger service standards. In 2023, it is anticipated that passenger throughput at the airport will return to record levels in excess of 32 million passengers. John Moran, CEO, JLL in Ireland said: "There are limited international opportunities to acquire a single holding of this scale for a potential airport terminal, airport related uses or logistics in such a high-profile and accessible location. This provides an exceptional development opportunity as there are no lands of similar zoning and location which are potentially designated for the short and medium-term development of one of Europe's busiest and most well-connected airports." The central location and greenfield nature of the area are key advantages, representing the best opportunity to construct a third terminal at the airport and providing the opportunity for scalable and modular growth without the associated major disruption to passenger operations that would inevitably accompany the ongoing expansion of Terminals 1 and 2. In the centre of Dublin airport, between the two existing runways, this substantial landbank is approximately 3.0km north of the M50 Dublin ring-road, 4.0km south of the large suburban town Swords and 7.0km north of Dublin City Centre. It has direct access to Dublin City Centre via the Dublin Port Tunnel and regional roadways. As Dublin airport rapidly moves towards handling 40 million annual passengers, likely within another four to six years, the land is in a unique strategic position to host a third terminal and meet passenger demand at one of Europe's fastest growing major airports. In 2023 alone Aer Lingus is reportedly anticipating an increase of 23% in its long-haul capacity, while Ryanair is implementing its biggest summer schedule from Dublin ever, with 130 routes. DAA, a commercial company wholly-owned by the Irish State, owns and operates Dublin Airport. Policy decisions on the future expansion of Dublin Airport including the establishment of a secondary hub, a third terminal, as well as airport regulatory and operating models are made by the Irish Government and informed by National Aviation Policy. The lands are zoned DA Dublin Airport, in the 2023 to 2029 Development Plan for the local authority, Fingal County Council. The objective under this zoning is to ensure the effective and efficient development of the airport in accordance with an approved Local Area Plan. The lands are currently in agricultural use and are available to the market with vacant possession. Key Statistics Dublin Airport is the 10th largest international passenger airport in the EU Dublin Airport is the 5th largest airport in Europe for transatlantic connectivity and only European capital city airport offering US pre-clearance Dublin Airport hosts the 2nd busiest international air route in the world, Dublin - London Note - Figures from latest available data from 2019, with strong passenger recovery since covid, outpacing European peers with record monthly passengers in each month of 2023 Dublin Airport Summer 2023 weekly schedules Inquiries to JLL in Dublin: John Moran: + 353 86 260 8783 / john.moran@jll.com Ollie Lyons: +353 86 085 0056 / ollie.lyons@jll.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2088916/Lands_at_Dublin_Airport.jpg Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sale-of-260-acres-at-dublin-airport-presents-unique-real-estate-opportunity-301837915.html FILE - Music mogul and entrepreneur Sean "Diddy" Combs arrives at the Billboard Music Awards in Las Vegas on May 15, 2022. Combs is suing Diageo, saying the spirits company didn't make promised investments in his vodka and tequila brands and treated them as inferior "urban" brands. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File) (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Rapper, producer and entrepreneur Sean Diddy Combs sued Diageo Wednesday, saying the spirits company didnt make promised investments in his vodka and tequila brands and treated them as inferior urban products. The lawsuit, filed with the New York Supreme Court in Manhattan, says Diageo North America starved Combs Ciroc vodka and DeLeon tequila brands of resources even as it showered attention on other celebrity brands. Diageo bought actor George Clooneys Casamigos tequila brand for $1 billion in 2017, for example. Combs, who is Black, said Diageo leadership told him his race was one of the reasons it limited distribution to urban neighborhoods. He was also told that some Diageo leaders resented him for making too much money, according to the lawsuit. Cloaking itself in the language of diversity and equality is good for Diageos business, but it is a lie, the lawsuit said. While Diageo may conspicuously include images of its Black partners in advertising materials and press releases, its words only provide the illusion of inclusion. Combs relationship with Diageo dates to 2007, when the London-based company which owns more than 200 brands, including Guinness beer and Tanqueray gin approached Combs about Ciroc. In a statement, Diageo denied allegations of racism. This is a business dispute, and we are saddened that Mr. Combs has chosen to recast this matter as anything other than that, the company said in a statement. While we respect Mr. Combs as an artist and entrepreneur, his allegations lack merit, and we are confident the facts will show that he has been treated fairly. In the lawsuit, Combs said he intends to seek billions of dollars in damages in other legal proceedings against Diageo. The worst result, after buying shares in a company (assuming no leverage), would be if you lose all the money you put in. But when you pick a company that is really flourishing, you can make more than 100%. For example, the Shop Apotheke Europe N.V. (ETR:SAE) share price has soared 119% in the last half decade. Most would be very happy with that. Also pleasing for shareholders was the 41% gain in the last three months. While this past week has detracted from the company's five-year return, let's look at the recent trends of the underlying business and see if the gains have been in alignment. View our latest analysis for Shop Apotheke Europe Because Shop Apotheke Europe made a loss in the last twelve months, we think the market is probably more focussed on revenue and revenue growth, at least for now. Shareholders of unprofitable companies usually expect strong revenue growth. Some companies are willing to postpone profitability to grow revenue faster, but in that case one does expect good top-line growth. For the last half decade, Shop Apotheke Europe can boast revenue growth at a rate of 21% per year. Even measured against other revenue-focussed companies, that's a good result. Meanwhile, its share price performance certainly reflects the strong growth, given the share price grew at 17% per year, compound, during the period. This suggests the market has well and truly recognized the progress the business has made. To our minds that makes Shop Apotheke Europe worth investigating - it may have its best days ahead. The graphic below depicts how earnings and revenue have changed over time (unveil the exact values by clicking on the image). We consider it positive that insiders have made significant purchases in the last year. Even so, future earnings will be far more important to whether current shareholders make money. You can see what analysts are predicting for Shop Apotheke Europe in this interactive graph of future profit estimates. A Different Perspective We regret to report that Shop Apotheke Europe shareholders are down 7.8% for the year. Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 4.5%. Having said that, it's inevitable that some stocks will be oversold in a falling market. The key is to keep your eyes on the fundamental developments. On the bright side, long term shareholders have made money, with a gain of 17% per year over half a decade. 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 Shop Apotheke Europe better, we need to consider many other factors. Even so, be aware that Shop Apotheke Europe is showing 1 warning sign in our investment analysis , you should know about... Shop Apotheke Europe is not the only stock insiders are buying. So take a peek at this free list of growing companies with insider buying. 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. 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 Shop today's best Samsung deals on customizable Bespoke refrigerators we love. Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission. We test hundreds of refrigerators all year long and we love the range of Samsung Bespoke refrigerators for how beautiful and versatile they are. You can choose from the brand new Samsung Bespoke Side-by-Side refrigerator to the Samsung Bespoke 3-Door French Door Refrigerator with up to 20 different color customization options to find the perfect fit for your home. Right now, we found tons of Reviewed-approved Bespoke refrigerator deals to help you save on your next big purchase. Shop deals on Samsung Bespoke refrigerators The best Amazon deals on everything you need for summer pool days One of our favorite Samsung Bespoke refrigerator deals includes up to $1,200 off the beautiful Bespoke 4-Door French Door Refrigerator with Beverage Center that we included in our list of best refrigerators of 2023 after testing it ourselves. The visual elegance of the Bespoke fridge impressed us, with its color swappable panels that can be arranged to match nearly any kitchen design concept. But the quality doesn't stop on the surface. Samsung Bespoke refrigerator deals: Up to $1,200 off at the Samsung sale. Our lab found that the Bespoke fridge offered "solid" temperature delivery, keeping an unwavering freezer temperature that won't cause freezer burn, and a good refrigerator temp that keeps food from spoiling. The door-in-door system allows you to get to the beverage center and some door storage without opening the whole refrigerator section and exposing it to heat loss. Our tester model also included a flex temperature drawer that can be set to whatever you need (more freezer room or more fridge space), and even brought up temp levels that would be unsafe in a normal fridge, for specific tasks like putting a little chill on a wine bottle or veggies. Apple AirTags deal: Keep track of your keys, wallet and luggageshop this Amazon deal to save 9% Theres a lot more where this came from. Sign up for Revieweds Perks and Rec newsletter and well keep deals coming every Sunday through Friday. Samsung Bespoke Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Beverage Center The newest addition to the Samsung Bespoke line is the Samsung Bespoke Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Beverage Center. The sleek Bespoke refrigerator features convenient access to filtered water through a dispenser and the AutoFill Water Pitcher (feel free to infuse your water with a refreshing flavor for summer!), cubed ice or Ice Bites and an Auto Open Door feature that requires just a light touch over the sensor to open hands-free.Typically $2,299, you can save up to $700 right now and ring up at $1,599 for the 2023 launch. With so much color versatility, a stately build and all-around solid functionality, we think these Samsung Bespoke refrigerator deals can help create the premium kitchenshop Samsung today to save big. Shop deals on Samsung Bespoke refrigerators 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: Samsung Bespoke refrigerator deals: Up to $1,200 off at Samsung (Bloomberg) -- Singapores detentions of oil and chemicals tankers have surged since early last year, highlighting growing concerns over the environmental and safety impact of an expanding fleet of aging vessels plying major shipping lanes. Most Read from Bloomberg The city-state has held 33 ships for failing safety inspections so far this year, the same as for the whole of the decade through 2019, according to figures from Tokyo MOU, a regional port control organization. April saw nine detentions, the most for any month since at least 2010. The dramatic increase in failed inspections in Singapore fits with a regional trend of rising detentions across Asia since Russia invaded Ukraine early last year. The invasion and subsequent sanctions have prompted a rapid expansion in the dark fleet of tankers sailing under the radar, transporting sanctioned oil to buyers in China, India and elsewhere. Those ships often operate with sub-standard insurance, and are usually past an age at which they would normally be sent for scrapping. A recent explosion on a tanker capable of carrying around 700,000 barrels of oil off the coast of Malaysia brought home the dangers these vessels can pose. Luckily, the Pablo, built in 1997, was nearly empty. Read More: An Oil Tanker Ablaze in the South China Sea Is a Global Problem Singapore, a frequent stopping point en route to north Asia, is one of the busiest oil ports in the world. Most of the crude coming from the Middle East and western Russia will transit through the Strait of Malacca. The city-states Maritime & Port Authority said it resumed physical vessel inspections in 2022 when Covid restrictions relaxed. The frequency of inspections has increased to ensure safe and reliable operations, and that ships are in compliance with all applicable regulations, it added. Singapore detained 28 vessels last year, with all but two of those happening from June, according to the data from Tokyo MOU. There was a lull in detentions during the pandemic but in the decade through 2019 the annual record was just seven. Separately, China has also increased safety checks on older ships calling at its ports in recent weeks, particularly for those that are 15 years or older. (Updates with comment from Singapores MPA in sixth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. SEOUL (Reuters) -South Korea's factory production and retail sales fell in April, underscoring another tough quarter after the economy narrowly averted a recession in the first three months of the year. Factory production in April fell 1.2% from March, on a seasonally adjusted basis, official data showed on Wednesday, slightly softer than a 1.6% loss tipped in a Reuters survey. In March, output rose by 5.3% month-on-month, which was the fastest gain since June 2020, according to Statistics Korea. Output in April was down 8.9% from the same month a year earlier, compared with a decline of 7.6% in March and a year-on-year drop of 7.9% expected by economists. It was the biggest annual loss in three months. The all-industry output index, which includes the manufacturing as well as services sectors, fell 1.4% in April over a month, marking the first monthly decline since November and the biggest drop in 14 months. On the consumption side, retail sales dropped 2.3% from a month earlier, after a 0.1% gain in the previous month, marking the first monthly fall since January and the biggest in five months. "The latest data show that producers are on a roller coaster ride that will probably last for a few more months," said economist Heron Lim at Moody's Analytics. "A recovery in industrial production is contingent on a stronger export market," Lim said, adding that "easing inflation and the pause on monetary tightening will offer limited support to domestic demand." The finance ministry said data showed the economy went through a "moderate correction from the recovery in the first quarter". The ministry said both upside and downside factors are likely to affect the economic trend, such as spill-over effects from China's reopening and high inventory levels in the semiconductor industry, respectively. The weak economic activity in April follows the country's slim growth in the first quarter of this year, which was just enough to prevent Asia's fourth-largest economy from falling into a recession. (Reporting by Jihoon Lee; Editing by Stephen Coates and Jacqueline Wong) Successful splashdown of Dragon 2 in the Atlantic Ocean - historic moment for the two Saudi heroes of the space mission CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla., May 31, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Saudi Space Commission (SSC) has announced today the success of mission AX-2 and the landing of the astronauts' capsule after a pioneering scientific trip to the International Space Station (ISS). This innovative mission contributed to raising the status of Saudi Arabia whilst its success is a moment of great pride for the national and scientific contributions to space research. Saudi Astronaut Ali AlQarni returns safely following the successful AX-2 mission. The SSC has confirmed that the two Saudi astronauts, Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali AlQarni's capsule has safely landed in the Atlantic Ocean. The two astronauts are the first team from the same nationality simultaneously to conduct scientific experiments and explorative research rounds around Earth as part of Saudi Arabia's astronaut program - a historic moment. The entrance of the spacecraft into the atmosphere slowed down its speed whilst the opening of big parachutes diminished the impact of the landing in the Ocean, 'splashdown'. Right after the splashdown, the Space X rescue team secured the spacecraft and welcomed the astronauts. The rescue team are specialized in space flights and retrieved the astronauts safely from the spacecraft. The safe landing of the Saudi team of astronauts completes the success of the mission. Hence the SSC has delivered its commitment in making innovative and pioneering research in space a reality. With the manned trip to space the SSC has contributed to the space economy and to education with its strategic partners. The AX-2 mission was launched on board the Dragon 2 spacecraft from Florida on 21st of May. The successful docking with the ISS announced 24 hours after the launch from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre at Cape Canaveral, Florida. They have successfully conducted 14 pioneering research experiments in microgravity and have safely returned to Earth, in a splashdown in the Atlantic Ocean near the State of Florida, USA. Notes to Editors About The Saudi Space Commission (SSC): The Saudi Space Commission was established by the royal order in December of 2018 (Rabi II 1440). This bold step serves a future that is innovative and looks forward to the latest technologies and opportunities in the Saudi Space Industry. With the Kingdom moving towards a progressive quality of life, SSC demonstrates the aligned vision of creating better, secure environments for its citizens while actively enabling prospects of lucrative economic and monetary inventions. The SSC has strategized to create primary objectives that serve national security interests against space related risks and encourage cumulative growth and advancement. https://saudispace.gov.sa/en/about-us/ Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089307/Saudi_Space_Commission_1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089308/Saudi_Space_Commission_2.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2089309/Saudi_Space_Commission_3.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2036414/4060302/SSC_Logo.jpg The first Arab female astronaut, Rayyanah Barnawi lands safely after completing the successful AX-2 mission which conducted pioneering scientific research in space A successful AX-2 splashdown, mission and safe landing of the astronauts following a pioneering scientific trip to the International Space Station. SSC Logo Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/successful-splashdown-of-dragon-2-in-the-atlantic-ocean---historic-moment-for-the-two-saudi-heroes-of-the-space-mission-301838356.html (Bloomberg) -- A hacking group suspected of ties to an Asian government has broadened its targets to government agencies in countries including Indonesia and Thailand, carrying out cyber-espionage as recently as April, cybersecurity firm Group-IB says. Most Read from Bloomberg The perpetrators, dubbed Dark Pink by the Singapore-based company, infiltrated five new targets using sophisticated malware and phishing emails. Their victims included government agencies in Brunei and Indonesia, a military body in Thailand, a non-profit organization in Vietnam and an educational institution in Belgium. The five targets joined eight previously identified targets across Southeast Asia and Europe, Group-IB said in a report published Wednesday. Government and military organizations are prime targets for hackers given the confidential and sensitive data on their networks. Phishing emails are the top threat in Asia, a region that endured the highest number of cyberattacks in the world last year, comprising nearly a third of all global attacks, according to IBM Securitys annual threat index. The government and military agencies in the specified countries didnt respond to emailed requests for comment. There is mounting evidence suggesting that Dark Pink is not a one-time campaign carried out by a known APT group, but rather a distinct and continuously evolving threat, Group-IB malware analyst Andrey Polovinkin said, referring to advanced persistent threats or stealthy cyberattacks often sponsored by a government. The risk of highly damaging confidential data leaks remains alarmingly high. Read more: Suspected State Hackers Stole Military Data From Asian Countries While Dark Pinks exact identity hasnt been confirmed, researchers say it most likely originates from the Asia-Pacific given the location of the targets and evolving sophistication of its methods, including advanced malware built into a program posing as a Microsoft Word file. It was previously reported to have begun its hacking campaign in June 2021, and to have stolen documents and recorded audio from infected devices. In addition to the latest April attack on an Indonesian government agency, Group-IB researchers identified updated files from Dark Pink as recently as May, suggesting the group has continued its work. Chinese researchers from the Zhejiang-based firm DAS-Security also attributed attacks by the same group on the Philippine military, Cambodias economy and finance ministry and Indonesias foreign ministry. DAS-Security said the hackers, which they labeled the Saaiwc Group, were geopolitically motivated. Thats because of its covert targeting of Association of Southeast Asian Nation countries military and foreign ministry departments, it said in a February report. --With assistance from Jamie Tarabay. (Updates with attack details in sixth paragraph. A previous version of this story was corrected to say hackers infiltrated five new targets rather than five new nations) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Since the heady days of the ICO boom and bust in 2017, blockchain technology has struggled to attract widespread interest from the mainstream business world. But Deutsche TelekomEurope's largest telecoms provider in terms of revenueis changing that narrative. The German business giant, which also owns T-Mobile in the U.S., has announced that it's now serving as a validator on Polygon. Multimedia Solutions GmbH (MMS)a subsidiary that focuses on helping small and medium-sized businesses with their digital transformationis leading the initiative. And Polygon isn't the first blockchain that MMS has embraced. Since 2021, it has also announced support for Ethereum, Chainlink, Q, Celo, and Flow. T-Mobile Parent Deutsche Telekom Launches Ethereum Validator, Staking Support This latest collaboration means Deutsche Telekom MMS will provide staking and validation services for Polygon's proof-of-stake network, which serves as a Layer 2 scaling platform for Ethereum. The company says it will be focused on securing Polygon's sidechain and Supernets app-chainscontributing to security, governance, and decentralization. Dirk Roder, who heads the Blockchain Solutions Center for Deutsche Telekom, praised Polygon for being "developer-friendly and resource-efficient" in a news release. "The collaboration with Polygon is an important step for Deutsche Telekom MMS to fully exploit the potential of blockchain technology and enable applications suitable for mass deployment," he added. Decrypts 2022 Crypto Project of the Year: Polygon Polygon Labs' chief operating officer Michael Blank was equally enthusedand said he hopes this will allow more businesses to utilize blockchain technology, while enabling consumers to unlock "the ownership and autonomy that Web3 technology offers." Tens of thousands of decentralized applications already exist on Polygon's PoS chain, the news release addsresulting in over three million daily transactions. While blockchain technology has struggled to match the breakneck growth seen in the artificial intelligence world, Polygon has done a better job than most in attracting big names. Polygon was named Decrypt's crypto project of the year in 2022 after wooing the likes of Starbucks, Instagram and Reddit. In this article, we take a look at the top 15 offshore tax havens in the world. For more on this, go to the Top 5 Offshore Tax Havens in the World. Offshore tax havens offer foreign individuals and companies minimal or no tax liability in an economically and politically stable environment. These havens serve as attractive locations for non-residents who want to minimize or entirely evade tax liabilities without facing any legal complications. They allow foreign corporations and individuals to legally stash their wealth in tax havens and avoid getting taxed in their home countries. Simultaneously, tax havens economically benefit from the incoming capital. Tax havens dont require foreigners to have a residency in order to park money in the jurisdictions financial institutions. They have certain secrecy laws and lax regulations that make it easy for foreigners to stash their money and hide their income from tax authorities in their resident countries. Recent research reveals that multinational corporations have globally invested a staggering $12 trillion through the utilization of empty corporate shells. Moreover, citizens from financially unstable and oil-producing countries hold a disproportionately significant portion of the $7 trillion personal wealth concealed within tax havens. While past incidents such as Swiss Leaks, the Panama Papers, and recent disclosures within the offshore industry have shed light on some of the intricate methods employed by multinational firms and affluent individuals to evade their fair share of taxes, the offshore financial realm remains shrouded in opacity. The core services provided by offshore banks, lawyers, and domiciliation companies revolve around secrecy, making it exceedingly difficult to ascertain the exact magnitude of funds channeled through tax havens, their origins, and destinations. The scale of profit relocation to tax havens is also staggering, with approximately 40% of corporate profits finding their way to these jurisdictions every year. As a consequence, countries such as the US face a significant annual loss of around 16% in corporate revenue to tax havens. Corporations use several legal means to avoid getting taxed. For example, according to documents filed in the Dutch Chamber of Commerce, in 2017, Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) the parent company of Google reported $23 billion in profits in Bermuda, a tax haven with a zero corporate tax rate. Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) employed the legal Double-Irish-with-a-Dutch-Sandwich technique for the purpose through a Dutch subsidiary. Under this arrangement, Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG)'s Dutch subsidiary facilitated the flow of royalties earned outside the United States to Google Ireland Holdings, an affiliate based in Bermuda. By moving intellectual property and licensing it to subsidiaries situated in tax havens, corporations can use the arm's length principle in transfer pricing. This principle ensures that the pricing of intercompany transactions, including intellectual property licensing, resembles what would be expected between unrelated entities in an open market. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges posed by offshore tax havens, ongoing debates surrounding the balance between tax optimization, responsible fiscal practices, and the need for global cooperation persist. It remains essential for governments, regulators, and international bodies to work collectively to ensure a fair and equitable tax system that promotes economic growth, stability, and social welfare for all. Nevertheless, when it comes to stashing your money in offshore bank accounts to minimize tax obligations, there are two crucial factors to consider: confidentiality and accessibility. Thanks to popular culture and media portrayals, you might envision a secretive bank nestled in Switzerland or a secluded island nation in the Caribbean. While there is some truth to this perception, the reality of the world's largest tax havens is far more diverse. These havens are not confined to small nations alone; they encompass major economic powers that may come as a surprise. This article reveals some of them. Top 15 Offshore Tax Havens in the World Belyay/Shutterstock.com Methodology For our list of the top 15 offshore tax havens in the world, we have ranked them in ascending order based on the Financial Secrecy Index (FSI) 2022 report compiled by the Tax Justice Network (TJN). TJN is a renowned UK-based international network that focuses on advocating and addressing issues related to international tax and financial regulations. The Financial Secrecy Index ranks jurisdictions based on their level of secrecy and the extent to which they facilitate financial secrecy and offshore activities. It takes into account various factors and indicators, including the level of banking secrecy, financial transparency, and the effectiveness of anti-money laundering regulations. The Financial Secrecy Index by the TJN is based on three scales; secrecy score, global scale weight, and FSI value. The FSI value combines the secrecy score and global scale weight to indicate the extent of financial secrecy enabled by a jurisdiction. Based on the FSI value of each jurisdiction, heres our list of the top offshore tax havens in the world: Top Offshore Tax Havens in the World 15. Cyprus FSI Value: 510 Though Cyprus officially lost its tax haven status in 2015, the island reclaimed its position by ranking 15 on FSI 2022 report, with a financial secrecy score of 62 out of 100. The country has been an attractive offshore tax paradise due to its favorable tax systems, low flat corporate tax rate, and geographical desirability that is in proximity to Russia and Europe. The island exempts non-resident companies from taxation and also offers various personal taxation exemptions, making it even more attractive to foreigners. For instance, non-Cyprus residents get tax exemptions on employment income, capital gains, dividends, interest, and royalties. Moreover, foreigners who reside in the country for at least 60 days during the tax year can become tax residents and benefit from tax incentives. 14. Cayman Islands FSI Value: 516 The Cayman Islands is ranked as the 14th largest jurisdiction with a high financial secrecy value. Known for their tax neutrality and offshore financial facilities such as offshore banking and trusts, these islands make a lucrative haven for residents and non-residents alike. The islands also favor the incorporation of offshore companies, meaning they are exempted from tax on income earned outside the countrys territory. This accompanied by the ease of doing business makes the Cayman Islands a popular tax paradise for hedge fund managers, multinational corporations, and American elites. In addition to this, the Cayman Islands is tax-neutral when it comes to capital gains, income, property, and salesit has zero tax rates for both citizens and foreigners. However, this notorious reputation has also encouraged various organizations and individuals to perform illicit activities such as money laundering and tax evasion. 13. United Kingdom FSI Value: 547 Based on the FSI 2022 report, the United Kingdom ranks as the 13th largest contributor to global financial secrecy, accounting for approximately 1.16% of the global FSI share. According to a 2022 report by the Financial Times, UK residents have held an estimated $1.07 trillion (850 billion) of untaxed wealth in offshore assets. Another report by the Guardian reveals that almost 40% of corporate investment is channeled into tax havens through the UK, making it a major conduit for money outside the UK. While the United Kingdom may not be popularly recognized as an offshore tax haven, it shares similar characteristics to traditional offshore jurisdictions. For instance, there are no local taxes on businesses operating outside the UK, and dividends distributed through EU member countries are not subject to double taxation. Moreover, the legal framework within the UK allows the formation of trusts and other financial structures that can be used to hold assets and wealth while potentially evading taxes. These practices, combined with various tax incentives and favorable regulations, have raised concerns about the UKs status as an offshore tax haven. 12. Netherlands FSI Value: 556 The Netherlands shares a long history of being an offshore tax haven. It deliberately offers firms the opportunity to become residents within the countrys territory and enjoy benefits like reduced tax charges on capital gains, royalties, and interest. In 2019, it attracted around $84 billion in foreign direct investment. Corporate taxes in the Netherlands are quite low, which attracts foreign businesses, making the country one of the biggest recipients of FSI in 2022. It is one of the top European corporate tax havens for American firms that have established subsidiaries in the country to avoid paying US taxes. 11. China FSI Value: 578 China is not typically regarded as a traditional offshore tax haven due to its strict tax regime and regulations. The corporate tax rate in the country is not attractive, at 25%. The progressive income tax on high incomes is also generally regarded high. However, the 2022 FSI reportwhich assigns China an FSI value of 578 and the world financial secrecy share of 1.7%suggests that the country is considered to have some level of financial secrecy and offshore financial activity. Macau, a special administrative region of China, is particularly considered a tax haven due to its favorable tax system and policies for both individuals and corporations. In Macau, foreign income is exempted from tax and corporate taxes are significantly lower than in European countries and the United States. It also offers lower tax rates to residents and non-residents settled in the city. 10. Guernsey FSI Value: 610 Guernsey is the second largest of the Channel Islands, which stands as an independent entity from the UK. The island boasts its own democratically elected parliament, which exercises control over the states laws, budget, and level of taxation. This fiscal and legislative independence empowers the island to swiftly adapt to the ever-changing needs of businesses, enhancing its reputation as an ideal business destination. Guernsey makes a highly advantageous tax haven for businesses, offering a range of facilities, including a zero corporate general tax rate and exemption from capital gains tax, value-added tax, and inheritance tax. The presence of a variable tax rate further enhances this advantage, frequently resulting in businesses enjoying minimal or even nonexistent tax liability. 9. British Virgin Islands FSI Value: 621 With a secrecy score of 71 and a worldwide FSI share of 1.83%, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is recognized as one of the worlds leading offshore tax havens. Its a compliant jurisdiction that has never been blacklisted by FATF or OECD. This, combined with the islands subtropical climate and pristine waters, makes the BVI an ideal place for offshore businesses. The country provides an ideal environment for establishing offshore companies and bank accounts, characterized by zero tax on such entities as well as no tax treaties with other nations. This ensures the secure financial privacy of the companies and account holders, making it an attractive choice for foreigners to protect their assets and wealth. The BVI also provides tax exemptions on capital gains and profits generated outside the country. Moreover, there are no exchange controls, which makes it easy to transfer funds for investment and trading purposes while maintaining financial privacy. 8. United Arab Emirates FSI Value: 648 The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is among the worlds fastest-growing tax havens, contributing approximately 1.91% to the global financial landscape. A 2021 report by the Tax Justice Network revealed that over US$200 billion flowed into the country, solidifying its status as an attractive business paradise for foreign investors. In the 2022 FSI report by the TJN, the UAE surged to number 8 in the rankings, thanks to multinational corporations directing foreign direct investment to the country to benefit from tax savings. The streamlined offshore company formation process and tax-free business model have helped position the UAE as one of the most favorable tax jurisdictions in the world. However, as part of its commitment to support global tax transparency, the country introduced a 9% tax on corporate gains starting in 2023. Nevertheless, the UAE assures it will remain competitive and attractive for international businesses. 7. Germany FSI Value: 681 Germany makes it to number 7 on the Financial Secrecy Index 2022. The country not only has a reputation for maintaining the account holders privacy but also offers tax incentives to foreign investors, including zero taxes on interest. Non-resident corporations are exempt from taxes on dividends or income generated from foreign subsidiaries or branches. Foreign companies operating within Germany also enjoy significant tax benefits, as the countrys tax environment imposes a tax of only 5% on capital gains and dividends. These favorable conditions make Germany an appealing destination for businesses and investors looking to optimize their tax positions. 6. Japan FSI Value: 765 Japan is not typically considered an offshore tax haven, but the global financial secrecy share of 2.25% and a secrecy score of 63% indicates a higher level of financial security in the country. It is one of the safest and wealthiest countries in the world with a large market size and business sophistication, attracting foreigners to invest in the country. Japans lenient corporate tax rates, ranging from 15% to 23% in annual income, also position it as a favorable destination for international businesses. Moreover, companies operating within Japan are only taxed on income generated inside its territories, meaning that income earned by non-residents from sources outside Japan is exempt from tax. Click to continue reading and see the Top 5 Offshore Tax Havens in the World. Suggested Articles: Disclosure: none. Top 15 Offshore Tax Havens in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey. (Bloomberg) -- The amount of money the US government has to pay its bills plunged to the lowest since 2017, posing a risk the administration will run out of funds by early next month if the statutory debt limit isnt raised or suspended before then, even as an agreement enters its final stages. Most Read from Bloomberg The Treasurys cash balance fell to just $37.4 billion on Tuesday, according to data published Wednesday. That more that reverses the previous days bounceback, which saw it jump to $54.5 billion, and takes the Treasury coffers below the half-decade low of $38.8 billion reached on Friday. The Treasurys bank account has been under downward pressure recently because of measures being taken to avoid breaching the $31.4 trillion debt cap. The drop came even as President Joe Biden expressed confidence lawmakers would take a key step toward raising the US debt ceiling, ahead of a House vote to advance his budget deal with Speaker Kevin McCarthy. The House has scheduled a floor vote on the budget deal for Wednesday evening in Washington. The agreement, announced over the weekend, includes two-year limits on federal spending as a condition of suspending the debt ceiling until 2025. However, until the agreement is enacted by Congress and signed into law the administration must continue to manage its borrowing and cash appropriately. As part of that, the Treasury announced Wednesday that it is planning to sell an unusually short-dated bill Thursday as it seeks to maneuver around the strictures of the debt ceiling. The department also announced the availability of $1.9 billion in so-called extraordinary measures, from a complex debt-swap maneuver with the Federal Financing Bank a decades-old agency that has its own borrowing authority. Ebbing Concern Investor concerns around the US debt ceiling ebbed as the deal headed toward a vote in the House of Representatives after clearing a crucial procedural hurdle. The cost of insuring US sovereign debt against default via derivatives has tumbled. At one point this month it exceeded levels on the bonds of many emerging markets with credit ratings well below that of the worlds biggest economy. Yields on Treasury bills maturing in early June when Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said her department risks running out of cash also extended their decline for the most part amid optimism around the agreement to avoid breaching the $31.4 trillion debt limit. (Updates with note on extraordinary measures, in paragraph before Ebbing Concern subheadline. A previous version of this story was corrected to amend the timeframe of the proposed ceiling suspension.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. Key Insights Significant control over United Plantations Berhad by private companies implies that the general public has more power to influence management and governance-related decisions 57% of the business is held by the top 2 shareholders Institutions own 18% of United Plantations Berhad To get a sense of who is truly in control of United Plantations Berhad (KLSE:UTDPLT), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. With 55% stake, private companies possess the maximum shares in the company. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn). Meanwhile, individual investors make up 22% of the companys shareholders. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of United Plantations Berhad. Check out our latest analysis for United Plantations Berhad What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About United Plantations Berhad? Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index. We can see that United Plantations Berhad does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. 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 United Plantations Berhad's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story. United Plantations Berhad is not owned by hedge funds. Brothers (Holdings) Pte. Ltd. is currently the largest shareholder, with 48% of shares outstanding. Employees Provident Fund of Malaysia is the second largest shareholder owning 8.7% of common stock, and Perbadanan Kemajuan Ekonomi Islam Negeri Perak holds about 5.9% of the company stock. Furthermore, CEO Carl Bek-Nielsen is the owner of 1.3% of the company's shares. To make our study more interesting, we found that the top 2 shareholders have a majority ownership in the company, meaning that they are powerful enough to influence the decisions of the company. While it makes sense to study institutional ownership data for a company, it also makes sense to study analyst sentiments to know which way the wind is blowing. There is a little analyst coverage of the stock, but not much. So there is room for it to gain more coverage. Insider Ownership Of United Plantations Berhad The definition of company insiders can be subjective and does vary between jurisdictions. Our data reflects individual insiders, capturing board members at the very least. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it. Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances. Our most recent data indicates that insiders own some shares in United Plantations Berhad. The insiders have a meaningful stake worth RM205m. Most would see this as a real positive. If you would like to explore the question of insider alignment, you can click here to see if insiders have been buying or selling. General Public Ownership With a 22% ownership, the general public, mostly comprising of individual investors, have some degree of sway over United Plantations Berhad. 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 Company Ownership We can see that Private Companies own 55%, of the shares on issue. It might be worth looking deeper into this. If related parties, such as insiders, have an interest in one of these private companies, that should be disclosed in the annual report. Private companies may also have a strategic interest in the company. Next Steps: While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. Take risks for example - United Plantations Berhad has 2 warning signs (and 1 which is concerning) we think you should know about. If you are like me, you may want to think about whether this company will grow or shrink. Luckily, you can check this free report showing analyst forecasts for its 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 A view of a former monastery, in Rome, Monday, May 29, 2023, situated on a quiet residential street. It once sheltered Jews fleeing deportation in World War II. Purchased by the Vatican in 2021 as a dormitory for foreign nuns studying at Romes pontifical universities, the building now stands empty, a collateral victim of the latest financial scandal to hit the Holy See. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) VATICAN CITY (AP) The Vatican is seeking clarity after the former director of its U.S. missionary fundraising office oversaw the transfer of at least $17 million of its endowment and donations into a new nonprofit and private equity fund that he created and currently manages, The Associated Press has learned. The new management of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the United States, which raises money for the Catholic Church in the developing world, has written off most of that money the $10.2 million it invested in the private equity fund -- as a loss since there is no timeline and no guarantee of investment return, according to its latest financial statement. The money was transferred from TPMS-US into a New York-based nonprofit, Missio Corp., and a private equity fund MISIF LLC created by the Rev. Andrew Small while he was the national director of TPMS-US. Both financial vehicles aim to raise capital to provide low-interest loans to and investments in church-run farming initiatives in Africa. MISIF LLC is known as an impact investing fund because it seeks to do social good as well as provide a financial return The bulk of the money was transferred to Small's new initiative in 2021, right before Small ended his 10-year tenure at TPMS-US. Small, a British-born Oblate of the Mary Immaculate priest, remains CEO of Missio Corp., which manages MISIF, while now serving on a temporary basis as the No. 2 at the Vaticans child protection advisory board. In a series of emailed responses to AP, Small strongly defended the money transfers as fully approved and in the best interest of the church and TPMS-US. He provided letters from grateful bishops and nuns in Africa who have benefitted from Missio Corp.s low-interest loans, as well as letters from two Vatican cardinals expressing interest in his impact investing initiatives. But the transfers have, at least temporarily, reduced the endowment fund of TPMS-US by a quarter and seemingly diverted money that was raised in the popes name away from Vatican-approved charities and projects in Africa, Asia and Latin America. The loss is thus the latest financial headache for the Holy See, which for decades has been beset by episodes of loss-making investments, opaque accounting methods, porous budgets and conflicts of interest that have undermined its financial reputation. The Holy See is aware of the situation and is currently looking into the details of the events, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni told AP. According to publicly available tax records and financial statements, the moneys transferred included $7 million in expense reimbursements, undefined contributions and support, from TPMS-US to Missio Corp. between 2019-2021, as well as a $10.2 million investment into MISIF, $7.5 million of which came out of a TPMS-US endowment fund. The transfers were all approved by the TPMS-US board, making any litigation to get it back implausible. But according to officials at TPMS-US, it remains unclear if the board was fully informed about the transfers and the Vaticans view of the initiatives, including concerns expressed by the then-prefect of the Vaticans missionary office, Cardinal Fernando Filoni. The Rev. Robert Gahl, a moral theologian who runs a church administration and management program at the Catholic University of America, said the evangelical thrust of TPMS-US donations differs from MISIFs more general development strategy of loans that must be repaid. How can donor intent be assured if the aims of the two are so different? he asked. Donor intent is defended in both civil and canon law, he added. Lloyd Mayer, a professor specializing in nonprofit law at Notre Dame Law School, said he didnt see any red flags in the transfers, but a few yellow flags. And the legal question for me is: has someone violated a legal duty here, or is this essentially an internal political dispute? Small strongly defended the transfers as consistent with both the mission of TPMS-US and his fiduciary duty to increase its funding, which he said had been steadily declining as donations dried up. He said he tried new methods of fundraising, including crowdsourcing initiative where donors could see the direct outcome of their gifts. Donors, he said, were increasingly unwilling to just give via the typical TPMS structure, where Rome decides on projects. A lot of it goes to bishops and nuncios with only a tiny fraction going to priests and sisters, Small said. Many millions of dollars of the U.S. money help pay the expenses of operating nunciatures in mission countries, which seems anomalous with the messages sent to the faithful on Mission Sunday each year. Small said he developed Missio Corp., and its public-facing Missio Invest website because he wanted to apply the principles of impact investing to the needs of the church in mission territory. It was an idea that had found support in some parts of the Vatican, which hosted three impact investing conferences in 2014, 2016 and 2018. The ultimate goal was to create a social impact fund that could provide low-interest loans to church-run enterprises in Africa so as to create a sustainable source income for the church and, presumably, make them less dependent on foreign annual donations which had shown themselves to be increasingly precarious, Small said. Small said the board of TPMS-US was informed of all the developments and approved all the transfers, and that he made at least annual presentations to the Vaticans missionary office. Robert Warren, a retired IRS criminal investigator who now teaches accounting at Radford University in Virginia, said the relationship between TPMS-US and Missio Corp., on its surface is problematic because Small headed both. Such interlocking relationships, he said, require extra scrutiny by auditors and management. I always tell my students: You have to determine whether there is an arms length transaction. If you have related parties, that means by definition you do not have an arms length transaction, he said. If one charity is making substantial contributions to keep a second one afloat, you now have an interrelated party and all those transactions require extra scrutiny by the auditors and by management. After Smalls term ended in 2021, TPMS-US under the leadership of its new national director, Monsignor Kieran Harrington, hired a law firm to investigate. Small didnt respond to lawyers questions. The independent analysis concluded that the TPMS board approved the funds transfers in a way consistent with their powers and the TPMS by laws, according to a statement from TPMS-US to AP. Harrington subsequently replaced the board with more high-ranking officials and Vatican oversight. It includes the popes ambassador to the United States, Archbishop Christophe Pierre, along with other senior U.S. cardinals and archbishops, including Boston Cardinal Sean OMalley, who as head of the Vaticans child protection board, is now Smalls boss. The new board is working to evaluate the governance structures of TPMS and will soon recommend new ecclesiastical statutes and vote upon the civil corporation bylaws, the society said in a statement to AP. Under Harrington, TPMS-US asked Missio Corp., for the $10.2 million investment in MISIF back but the request was denied, according to the TPMS-US audited financial statement. Management of the organization is diligently working to redeem the investment, however there is no timeline and no guarantee of investment return, the statement says. Small criticized the writeoff as shortsighted, saying there are no grounds for such a decision based on the funds performance. He said it was unfortunate that TPMS-US had such little confidence in the mission churchs ability to repay its loans. If we dont believe in our missionary colleagues, how will banks and other capital markets? he asked. However, even Smalls own auditors for two years running have said they were unable to verify MISIFs calculation of the fair value of its investment portfolio, which represents more than half of its assets. For both 2021 and 2022, the auditors declined to express an opinion on MISIFs financial statements. Palatum Europe launched in collaboration with global aviation group Bestfly LISBON, Portugal, May 31, 2023 /CNW/ - Today, Palatum by Chef Helt Araujo, an Angolan-based VIP aircraft catering services provider, announced the expansion of its service offering to Europe through the opening of a facility in Lisbon by Q3, 2023. Palatum is part of Grupo CHA, a renowned chain of fine dining restaurants and a VIP catering supplier based in Angola. Chef Helt Araujo (CNW Group/Bestfly) "We have been delivering the highest quality ingredients and incomparable standard of gastronomic excellence to our clientele for many years. Palatum expanded to the VIP aircraft charter market nearly five years ago, and we have since established ourselves as the only provider meeting critical requirements of the top aircraft charter operators in our market," said Chef Helt Araujo, Managing Director of Grupo CHA. "We have been very fortunate to work with Bestfly in all the markets it serves and to meet the requirements of their top clients. We are very pleased to be working with Bestfly as our launch point to establish Palatum Europe." "Bestfly has always looked for the highest level of service from all its suppliers and service providers. This ensures that we deliver the best VIP charter experience for each one of our clients. Palatum by Chef Helt Araujo has firmly established itself as an ideal partner for this area of our business and we are excited to offer our support for the establishment of Palatum Europe." said Alcinda Pereira, Vice Chair and Executive Director of Bestfly. About Bestfly Bestfly was established in 2009 as an Angolan company for ground handling services and has since grown into a global aviation group with several new markets and business segments. The company has expanded its presence from Angola into Aruba, Portugal, Cape Verde, Austria, UAE, Congo, Guyana, and Senegal. Bestfly has assembled a very experienced team to ensure the highest operational standards, organizational efficiency, and commercial agility. The group's current fleet stands at 27 aircraft based on an assortment of Bombardier, Falcon, Gulfstream, Hawker and Cessna Citation business jets, Beechraft Kingair turboprops, Leonardo and Bell helicopters, Embraer commercial jets, and ATR72 turboprop aircraft. The diverse fleet is optimized to serve key commercial markets and long-term contract customers throughout Europe, Africa, Middle East, and the Caribbean. Bestfly recently announced the acquisition of Austria-based MS Aviation, an aircraft asset management company offering end-to-end support solutions for various aircraft types, as part of its broader European expansion strategy. As a founding member of the African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA), Bestfly is also a current member of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). Bestfly.aero About Palatum by Chef Helt Araujo Palatum by Chef Helt Araujo is a subsidiary of Grupo CHA, a renowned restaurant conglomerate based in Angola. Palatum was launched as a service provider specializing in private aviation catering to deliver a meticulously assembled, rigorous, and standardized production line. Grupo CHA is committed to fostering innovation, enhancing service quality, and promoting gastronomic excellence throughout the value chain of all its companies. Palatum Food For further information: Communications Team, communications@bestfly.aero; Marc Duchesne, Leliken Relations conseils, mduchesne@leliken.com Chef Helt Araujo (CNW Group/Bestfly) Palatum by Chef Helt Araujo (CNW Group/Bestfly) Groupo Chef Helt Araujo (CNW Group/Bestfly) Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vip-aircraft-catering-palatum-by-chef-helt-araujo-announces-expansion-into-europe-301837969.html SOURCE Bestfly Cision View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/May2023/31/c5169.html Key Insights The considerable ownership by retail investors in Humm Group indicates that they collectively have a greater say in management and business strategy 51% of the business is held by the top 9 shareholders Recent purchases by insiders Every investor in Humm Group Limited (ASX:HUM) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. And the group that holds the biggest piece of the pie are retail investors with 43% ownership. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company. Meanwhile, individual insiders make up 31% of the companys shareholders. Institutions often own shares in more established companies, while it's not unusual to see insiders own a fair bit of smaller companies. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Humm Group. Check out our latest analysis for Humm Group What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Humm Group? 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. We can see that Humm Group does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. 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. If multiple institutions change their view on a stock at the same time, you could see the share price drop fast. It's therefore worth looking at Humm Group's earnings history below. Of course, the future is what really matters. Humm Group is not owned by hedge funds. Because actions speak louder than words, we consider it a good sign when insiders own a significant stake in a company. In Humm Group's case, its Top Key Executive, Andrew Abercrombie, is the largest shareholder, holding 25% of shares outstanding. For context, the second largest shareholder holds about 6.1% of the shares outstanding, followed by an ownership of 5.4% by the third-largest shareholder. We did some more digging and found that 9 of the top shareholders account for roughly 51% of the register, implying that along with larger shareholders, there are a few smaller shareholders, thereby balancing out each others interests somewhat. While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. While there is some analyst coverage, the company is probably not widely covered. So it could gain more attention, down the track. Insider Ownership Of Humm Group While the precise definition of an insider can be subjective, almost everyone considers board members to be insiders. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO. 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. It seems insiders own a significant proportion of Humm Group Limited. Insiders own AU$66m worth of shares in the AU$217m company. We would say this shows alignment with shareholders, but it is worth noting that the company is still quite small; some insiders may have founded the business. You can click here to see if those insiders have been buying or selling. General Public Ownership With a 43% ownership, the general public, mostly comprising of individual investors, have some degree of sway over Humm Group. While this group can't necessarily call the shots, it can certainly have a real influence on how the company is run. Private Company Ownership Our data indicates that Private Companies hold 4.8%, of the company's shares. 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. Next Steps: I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Take risks for example - Humm Group has 3 warning signs we think you should be aware of. But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. 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 China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 held in Beijing Xinhua) 08:23, May 31, 2023 This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows an exhibition at China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 in Beijing, capital of China. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) A visitor tries an equipment that offers Mars expedition experience at an exhibition at China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 in Beijing, capital of China, May 30, 2023. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) A staff member from a technology company demonstrates an AI software at an exhibition at China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 in Beijing, capital of China, May 30, 2023. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) People visit an exhibition at China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 in Beijing, capital of China, May 30, 2023. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) This photo taken on May 29, 2023 shows the opening ceremony of China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 at Shougang Park in Beijing, capital of China. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Zhang Chenlin) MOSS, an intelligent quantum computer from the science fiction film "The Wandering Earth", is displayed at an exhibition at China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 in Beijing, capital of China, May 30, 2023. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) A visitor plays a VR game using motion capture technology at an exhibition at China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 in Beijing, capital of China, May 30, 2023. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) A visitor experiences image matting based on AI technology at an exhibition at China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 in Beijing, capital of China, May 30, 2023. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Chen Zhonghao) This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows an exhibition at China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 in Beijing, capital of China. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Ren Chao) This photo taken on May 30, 2023 shows an exhibition at China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 in Beijing, capital of China. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Ren Chao) A visitor tries a VR equipment at an exhibition at China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 in Beijing, capital of China, May 30, 2023. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Ren Chao) This photo taken on May 29, 2023 shows the opening ceremony of China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 at Shougang Park in Beijing, capital of China. China Science Fiction Convention (CSFC) 2023 is scheduled to run in Beijing from May 29 to June 4. It is included as a sideline event of this year's Zhongguancun Forum (ZGC Forum) for the first time. Various events such as forums and sci-fi exhibitions are arranged in this year's convention. (Xinhua/Zhang Chenlin) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Why CEO Pay Packages Have Gone Down for the First Time in 10 Years milanvirijevic / Getty Images In 2021, corporate CEOs earned an average of 399 times a typical workers pay, according to the Economic Policy Institute. If you had your fingers crossed that they would make it to 400, prepare to be disappointed. A Wall Street Journal report found that CEO pay packages for two-thirds of Americas 500 largest companies fell in 2022 for the first time in a decade after getting richer and richer every year since the early 2010s. See Our List: 100 Most Influential Money Experts Read: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch To understand why, you have to understand how large companies compensate their chief executives and how they report executive pay to regulatory authorities. The Pay vs. Performance Rule In August 2022, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which regulates publicly traded companies, adopted a new rule called 402(v) of Regulation S-K. It ushered in new pay versus performance rules, which provide greater transparency about how a companys financial performance correlates with its executive pay. Mandated by the Dodd-Frank Act, the rule was meant to help people make informed investment decisions based on what companies pay their executives compared to the shareholder returns they deliver. It is primarily a result of the evolving expectations and demands of stakeholders for greater accountability and fairness in executive compensation practices, said Jeff Mains, CEO of the business consulting firm Champion Leadership Group. Take Our Poll: Who Has Given You the Best Money Advice You Have Ever Received? The new rules didnt compel companies to pay their executives less, but it did force them to evaluate and report gains and losses in the stock awards they issue and thats why it appears that two out of three S&P 500 CEOs received pay cuts last year. CEO Pay Is Hitched to the Wagon of Company Stock Shareholders elect company boards and boards hire CEOs. Naturally, executive pay is structured to incentivize them to make money for shareholders by tying their fortunes to that of their companies. According to The Business Standard, 70% of CEO compensation in 2022 came from stock or stock option awards. Among the 25 highest-paid chief executives with packages in excess of $31 million, equity awards accounted for 77% of total compensation. Actual salary accounts only for a small percentage of what makes CEOs rich. The Journal report found that the median pay package for S&P 500 CEOs dropped from $14.7 million in 2021 to $14.5 million in 2022. The median cash compensation was $3.7 million. The Launch of the New SEC Rule Coincided With a Bear Market Traditionally, companies reported executive compensation based on the pay packages value at the time it was awarded. But the 402(v) compensation actually paid measure requires an analysis of how real compensation changes in relation to the companys financial performance. The S&P 500 began declining in early January 2022. On June 13, it officially entered a bear market when losses topped 20%. With executive pay directly tied to stock performance, most chief executives experienced sharp declines in what the new SEC structure calls compensation actually paid. A weak stock market can greatly impact the value of stock options and other equity-based compensation that make up a significant portion of CEO pay, said Adam Garcia, founder of The Stock Dork. If the market experiences a downturn, the value of these incentives decreases, resulting in a reduction in the overall compensation package. As a result, CEO pay is subjected to downward pressure. Most CEOs earned less money last year, but not because they received pay cuts. Vesting and Benchmarks Create Compensation Roller Coasters Many companies issue equity compensation on a vested basis to encourage CEOs to stay with the company, their stock awards gain value over time. In other cases, CEOs unlock new stock awards when the company achieves predetermined performance benchmarks. For example, in 2021, Expedia CEO Peter Kern received one of the S&P 500s largest pay packages. Valued at around $296 million under the old reporting rules, it will continue vesting through at least 2026. But Expedia stock got pummeled in 2022, suffering losses of roughly 50%. As a result, Kerns compensation package lost an astonishing $237 million of its value. Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichais pay package was valued at $226 million under the SECs traditional reporting standards. But the companys stock plummeted from $145 to $89 in 2022 and Pichais compensation actually paid dropped to roughly $115.8 million. On the other end of the spectrum, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals stock bucked the bear and increased in price from $627 to $721 in 2022. Its CEO, Leonard Schleifer, saw his compensation package grow in value from $7 million to nearly $100 million as a result. This correlation between CEO pay and the stock market underscores the interdependence of executive compensation and corporate performance, said Mains. In short, CEO pay packages didnt decline, the market did. Only now, new SEC rules force companies to detail exactly how changes in stock prices impact what their chief executives earn. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Why CEO Pay Packages Have Gone Down for the First Time in 10 Years Chinas share of global gross domestic product (GDP) shrank to just 5% in 1978, but a series of market reforms supercharged the countrys economic growth. Today, China is the worlds second largest economic power and a major player on the global stage. But is its momentum sustainable? Comments are edited excerpts from part two of our three-part continuing education series China: A Deeper Look. Learn how to earn CE credits now. The Stark Contrast: Before and After Chinas Market Reforms In 1820, during the Qing Dynasty, Chinas economy was the largest in the world, accounting for more than 30% of the global GDP at the time. However, by 1978, nearly 80% of Chinas industrial production was from state-owned enterprises (SOEs), as private companies and foreign firms were largely prohibited. Even foreign trade was limited to obtaining certain goods that could not be made in China. As a result, there was essentially no market mechanism to efficiently allocate resources, and China remained stagnant and isolated from the global economy. To help spur economic development, China introduced a series of market reforms in 1978. The first aspect of the reforms was changing its centrally planned economy to a market-oriented one with a socialist ideology; the second aspect was embracing a manufacturing and service-based economy (vs. an economy based in agriculture); and the third aspect was shifting from a closed to an open economy. After the rollout of these reforms, Chinas economy evolved into one that is pro-growth, pro-market, and pro-technology thanks to initiatives that decentralized economic production, encouraged large-scale capital investment, and boosted productivity growth. The timeline below highlights several key events that accelerated Chinas economic development. William Blair Commentary- Understanding China: Economic System Overall, the market reforms unleashed Chinas economic growth potential. Chinas 2021 GDP was roughly 120 times the size of its 1978 GDP, and its GDP per capita grew over 200 times during the same period. But exponential growth can result in some challenges. In Chinas case, GDP growth from exports has begun to decline, a trend that was spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic; other hurdles such as a structurally weak property market and a widening income gap add to Chinas economic worries. We believe the ability of the Chinese government to implement reforms to counteract these challenges will determine whether China can continue to maintain relatively rapid economic growth rates moving forward. A Unique Economic Model Chinas socialist market economic model is unique; its a hybrid model that combines top-down (socialist) and bottom-up (capitalistic) forces. The essence of this model is that it applies socialism as a social system and the market economy as a resource-allocation mechanism so that the two approaches can coexist. The core element in Chinas economic model is the relationship between the government and market systems, which has evolved over the decades. At the 12th Chinese Communist Party (CCP) National Congress in 1982, an agriculture-based economy was still in effect; the market only played a supplementary role to central planning. In 1992, at the 14th CCP National Congress, the government decided that the market should play a fundamental role in resource allocation to drive the economy. And at the 18th CCP National Congress in 2012, Chinas government further minimized its own role, and the market now plays a decisive role in the economy. Today, Chinas government will only intervene in the economy when it believes it has an appropriate role to play. But the balancing act is ongoingpicture a pendulum constantly swinging between market forces and government macro intervention. Other Economic Challenges Emerge There are three key examples that showcase how certain economic challenges have manifested and how the Chinese government has intervened. The first example is Chinas after-school tutoring (AST) ban, which is a policy implemented by the Chinese government in July 2021 to restrict private tutoring services and regulate the countrys education sector. The AST ban came in response to a slowdown in Chinas GDP growth, growing concerns of social inequality, and an unfavorable demographic makeup. Leading up to the ban, in 2020 venture capital funding for education technology companies surged as the industry sought to leverage parents anxiety about their childrens education to maximize demand, as shown in the chart below. William Blair Commentary- Understanding China: Economic System The ban directly reduced education spending for most Chinese families, allowing for more kinds of household spending, and resulted in increased access to high-quality online education resources. The second example focuses on the structural slowdown of Chinas property market and its deep links to the financial sector and Chinese household wealth. For decades, Chinas property market has played a significant role in its economy. Nationwide average real-estate prices have increased four times since 2020, and local governments have benefited from rising property prices. But as property prices go up, land prices follow, and as land prices go up, property prices increase even further. This cycle was exacerbated by increased price speculation and the pressure Chinese people, especially those living in tier-one cities such as Shenzhen, feel to purchase a home. But because of sky-high prices, many housing options became unaffordable; the average monthly salary in Shenzhen is around 5,000 renminbi per month, meaning people could only afford one square meter on a full years salary. The Chinese government is working to reduce its reliance on the property market for growth, a key pivot as Chinas population growth slows down. It also wants to prevent further home-price speculation and will need to strike a delicate balance to avoid impacting households and other upstream and downstream sectors such as building materials, home appliances, and furniture. The third example highlights Chinas high level of corporate debt. As of 2020, Chinas debt as a percentage of GDP is 275%, 150% of which is corporate debt. Global investors have been concerned about the high debt levels in recent years. A major force driving up Chinas corporate debt level is SOEs, which tend to take on more debt to facilitate large government-related projects. However, the Chinese government has rolled out policy reforms to address high corporate debt, and its elevated savings level, which reached nearly $7 trillion in 2020, is a mitigating factor. Evelyn Kong, CFA, is a research associate on William Blair Investment Managements global consumer team. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. You Wont Believe What Hackers Can Do With Your SSN F8 studio / Shutterstock.com From GhostTouch to Vishing, there are so many scams out there attacking your phone, computer, and every bit of technology housing your private information. While we've grown accustomed to hearing about hacking, you still might be amazed and appalled by the many ways a scammer can fraudulently use your Social Security number. See: 6 Big Shakeups to Social Security in 2023 Find: 3 Ways To Recession-Proof Your Retirement "It's crucial to be vigilant about SSN disclosure to minimize the chances of falling victim to cybercrime and identity theft," cautions Sean O'Brien, a lecturer in Cybersecurity at Yale Law School Privacy Lab. "For the past two decades, we've seen electronic systems reduce reliance upon SSN as an identifier and a push for other methods of authentication and identification." "Due to increased pressure from U.S. regulators and government agencies, however, many systems now require SSN as part of KYC or know your customer policy," says O'Brien. "This has meant that SSN is, once again, a linchpin to our digital lives." Discover some of the awful -- but very real -- consequences that might happen if your SSN gets stolen, and learn how to prevent or deal with these worst-case scenarios. aodaodaodaod / Shutterstock.com Hackers can use your SSN to get credit cards in your name. It is possible for a hacker to get a credit card with just your name, address and Social Security number. Once the credit cards are in place, fraudsters can run up a lot of debt. Generally speaking, criminals aim to get the most they can with the least effort. Keeping your SSN safe requires two things: understanding and implementing security best practices, and luck. Pro tip: If you suspect someone has opened a credit card in your name, your first calls should be to the three major credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Don't just contact one -- call all three. Discover: Retirees Confess What They Wish They'd Done With Their Money Social Security: 20% Cuts to Your Payments May Come Sooner Than Expected guteksk7 / Shutterstock.com They can use your SSN to open a phone account in your name. Right now, with how phones are connected to our lives and data in so many ways,it's fairly easy for criminals to open a phone account in your name if they have your name, address and SSN. "Cyber criminals could use your SSN to take over your mobile phone account," O'Brien shares. "By impersonating you, they can potentially get a SIM card in your name and move your phone number to a device they control. This SIM swapping allows criminals to intercept text messages or calls and bypass multi-factor authentication." Pro tip: ...phone companies usually have fraud departments to deal with stolen services. Immediately let the department know what is going on, and then follow up with a letter. You might need to send a copy of that letter to the credit agencies if the issue shows up on your credit report. Retirement Savings: Experts Say This Magic Number Is the Key -- and It's Not $1 Million RyanJLane / iStock.com They can use your SSN to claim your tax refund. In 2020, nearly 170 million people filed tax returns for tax year 2019, including traditional non-filers who submitted information to get their economic impact payments. That year, the Internal Revenue Service issued nearly 126 million refunds, accounting for about 74% of all filers. The average refund was $2,549. So, imagine the shock if -- rather than that long-awaited check -- you instead received notice that someone else already filed a return in your name and received your tax refund. This can happen if a scammer gets your name and SSN and simply files a return in your name. While your best bet is to keep your SSN private, both the IRS and Federal Trade Commission can assist you if this happens. Pro tip: There are many things you can do to help protect your tax refund. Learn to recognize phishing emails seeking your personal information and calls from scammers posing as your bank, credit card company or the IRS. No bank, taxing authority or responsible business typically asks for your SSN online. Treat any such request as a scam. "Shred or securely dispose of documents containing your SSN and other sensitive information," recommends O'Brien. "...avoid providing your SSN to authenticate with any service unless you are absolutely compelled to and have vetted the organization." Photographee.eu / Shutterstock.com They can use your SSN to get a driver's license in your name. When asked for a photo identity, you are likely to whip out your driver's license. It is accepted as proof of who you are, where you live and how old you are. So if an identity thief is able to obtain a driver's license in your name, it opens many fraudulent doors. To get a driver's license, you generally have to pass a written test, a driving test and an eye exam, and provide your name, address and SSN. A hacker might be able to get a driver's license in your name without you even knowing it. Pro tip: If you believe that your name and Social Security number were used to obtain a fraudulent driver's license, immediately contact your state Department of Motor Vehicles. Warning signs could be traffic tickets issued in states you have never visited or warrants for your arrest you know nothing about. bowdenimages / iStock.com They can use your SSN to open a bank account in your name. If you think back to when you opened your first bank account, you'll remember that the bank didn't require much information other than your name, address and SSN. That means that anyone with your SSN can easily open a bank account in your name, especially if the identity thief already obtained a driver's license in your name. Why would someone want to open a bank account in your name? You can be sure it is not to add to your savings. The hacker could use it as a landing spot for transfers from your legitimate bank account. Pro tip: The minute you suspect your SSN has been stolen, call the fraud departments of the three credit reporting agencies and place a fraud alert on your file. This tells creditors to call you before they open any new accounts in your name. It's also critical to keep on top of your money. Using an online banking app makes it easier to monitor your account. Rawpixel.com / Shutterstock.com They can use your SSN to drain your existing bank accounts. Identity hackers also can use your stolen SSN to dip into any of your existing bank accounts. Armed with that knowledge, they can simply transfer money. "Armed with your SSN, hackers could access your bank accounts," says O'Brien. "They could pose as you to customer support, perform fraudulent transactions, transfer funds, or drain your accounts." If they hacked your SSN, they might have obtained your passwords and the answers to secret security questions, too, such as your mother's maiden name. The drain on your accounts might be gradual -- or you might wake up to find your entire savings gone. Hackers also have begun to use apps such as Zelle to transfer money illegally. Pro tip: It's important to protect yourself from hackers and scammers. Monitor your bank account on a daily basis to identify the slightest unfamiliar withdrawal or other changes to the account. The earlier you catch the fraud, the easier it will be to deal with it. Social Security: No Matter Your Age, Do Not Claim Benefits Until You Reach This Milestone Karin Hildebrand Lau / Shutterstock.com They can use your SSN to claim your Social Security check. Although you are regularly asked to use your SSN for identification, its primary purpose is linked to your Social Security benefits. The government keeps track of your earnings and your Social Security tax payments with your SSN, and you need it in order to claim Social Security retirement or disability benefits. For example, if you are eligible for Social Security retirement benefits but have opted to wait until you reach full retirement age, a hacker with your SSN could apply for those benefits in your name. Because Social Security benefits are usually deposited directly into a bank account, you might not even discover this until you try to apply for benefits years down the road. Pro tip: It's a good idea to check your Social Security account once or twice a year to make sure everything looks as it should. If you believe that a scammer is using your SSN to collect your Social Security benefits, call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 800-269-0271. djile / Shutterstock.com They can use your SSN to get a loan in your name. One of the worst things an identity thief can do with your Social Security number is to obtain a loan in your name. To do this, the hacker would first need to use your SSN to access your credit reports. Then, using the data, an identity thief could get a loan in your name -- and never pay it back. This is not only bad for your credit, but it can also affect your ability to get a job, rent an apartment, get insurance or obtain a loan. All of these things often depend on having a good credit report. If this type of fraud happens to you, you need to contact the lender involved, the police and the FTC. The issue can be difficult and time-consuming to fix. Pro tip: It's easier to safeguard your SSN than it is to repair ruined credit after someone has stolen it. "Safeguard your SSN and personal information by using strong, unique passwords for online accounts and using multi-factor authentication with an authenticator app or physical key token," suggests O'Brien. The lesson here: Always ask if your SSN is actually needed. Shutterstock.com They can use your SSN to pay for their utilities. For a customer to use their services, it's pretty standard for utility companies to ask for your Social Security number as a way to check your credit history, according to the FTC. But this just means there's another opportunity for a hacker to get your personal information and unfairly wreak havoc on your finances. Once your SSN lands in the hands of hackers, they can freely open utility services under your name for their personal use. You might not see any signs of this until you receive a notice for a past due payment. Pro tip: Before you mindlessly give out your SSN, take a moment to ask about the company's security policies and what measures are in place to protect you and your SSN. VGstockstudio / Shutterstock.com They can use your SSN to receive medical treatment under your insurance. Medical records typically lay out a patient's complete identity, according to CNBC -- which means that if there's a breach affecting healthcare systems, hackers can do a lot with what they've stolen. That includes accessing your medical insurance. Hackers can incur large medical bills or pricey prescriptions in your name that might not be covered by your medical insurance. In that case, you'll be hounded by collection companies for payment. "Hackers can use your SSN to access medical services, such as obtaining treatment or prescriptions in your name," says Kevin J. Owens, Founder/CEO CyberStorm Defense "This can lead to medical billing issues, incorrect medical records, and potential denial of coverage for legitimate medical needs." All of which can and will definitely hurt your credit score. Pro tip: Today, most medical providers have online records but not all do. Ask your provider how best to review your records. Don't Miss: 10 Brilliant Ways To Reduce Your Taxes in Retirement sirtravelalot / Shutterstock.com They can use your SSN to identify themselves when picked up for criminal activity. In some types of SSN fraud, you, the victim, can get arrested and thrown in jail. This could happen if the SSN thief commits a crime and uses your name and SSN to identify himself when apprehended. Pro tip: If you do become a victim of this type of fraud, Weisman said you should contact the credit reporting agencies and demand they remove the false information from your credit report. You also should file a criminal complaint for identity theft with the local police so that it is a matter of record. More From GOBankingRates Jake Arky and Jami Farkas contributed to the reporting for this article. This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: You Wont Believe What Hackers Can Do With Your SSN (Bloomberg) -- Xiaomi Corp. is handing some of its smartphone assembly in India to Dixon Technologies India Ltd., deepening its relationship with the homegrown partner as the countrys government pushes electronics manufacturers to build local supply chains. Most Read from Bloomberg The Chinese company has informed Prime Minister Narendra Modis government about the plan for Dixon to assemble and export Xiaomi smartphones, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, a technology minister in India, said late Tuesday. The partners will also explore component manufacturing, Dixon said. Xiaomi was once an unrivaled leader in Indias smartphone market, but lost steam after facing heightened regulatory scrutiny and stiff competition. Indian state agencies crackdown on Chinese firms including Xiaomi has led the companies to explore manufacturing alliances with local partners, possibly to win New Delhis favor. Shares of Dixon advanced as much as 5.1% in Mumbai. A unit of Taiwans Foxconn Technology Group called Bharat FIH currently makes the bulk of Xiaomis smartphones in India. Xiaomis other suppliers in India include local units of Chinas BYD Electronic International Co. and DBG Technology Co. Winning deals from big brands like Xiaomi is a boost for Indian contract manufacturers such as Dixon and Optiemus Electronics Ltd., which have ambitions to become global suppliers. Dixon already makes smart television sets for Xiaomi, and just days ago Xiaomi said Optiemus will make its Bluetooth neckband earphones the first time an Indian supplier will make an audio product for the Beijing-based company. Xiaomi wants to increase sourcing from India, including key components such as display and haptic feedback modules, Muralikrishnan B, president of Xiaomi India, said in an interview last week. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2023 Bloomberg L.P. An Orange County man was killed Sunday night in a two-vehicle crash, police said. Virginia State Police Sgt. Brent Coffey said the crash took place at 9:30 p.m. on North Madison Road in Orange. A 2002 Nissan Frontier was heading south when it rear-ended a 2016 Honda Civic. Coffey said the Frontier then ran off the right side of the road and struck an unoccupied building. The Frontier driver, 57-year-old Jeffrey S. McDaniel of Gordonsville, died at the scene. The Honda driver, a 19-year-old Orange woman, was not injured. Both drivers were wearing seatbelts, police said. Coffey said police believe a medical emergency was a factor in the crash. Erica Chandler knew something was up when her son kept falling and hitting his face, but had no idea how serious things were until she saw it herself. Tucker, now 9, was running for the school bus one morning in December 2021 when he suddenly dropped to his knees and faceplanted in the dirt. All of my medical training just went out the window and I was terrified, said his mother, a nurse who had worked with neurological patients. She ran to her sons side, noticing his eyes looked blank as if he were having a seizure. She ripped off his mask students were still wearing them then and his lips had turned blue. Tucker suddenly awoke, crying, and almost as scared as his mother. An emergency room visit and a referral to a pediatric cardiologist at the UVA University Hospital in Charlottesville revealed that Tucker, the oldest of three kids of Erica and Craig Chandler, has Long QT Syndrome. Thats a glitch in the hearts electrical system, according to the Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes Foundation website. Its one of a group of genetic heart conditions, known as SADS, that can cause sudden death in young, apparently healthy, people, according to the foundation. Almost half the people with the conditions never have symptoms, according to the Cleveland Clinic website, and for a small group, the one time an issue presents itself can be the last. For 1 out of 10 people with this syndrome, cardiac arrest is the first sign that something is wrong, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Without immediate treatment, cardiac arrest is fatal. Thats why Chandler wanted to share her sons story and to let people know about the amazing work done by the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Greater Virginia, which recently sent the family to Florida. There the whole family, including Tanner, 6, and Savannah, 5, enjoyed Disney and Legoland, including a private session with a master builder who demonstrated how Lego projects are designed and built. It was very cool, said Tucker, whos not much of a talker when it comes to interviews. Make-a-Wish covered the cost of food and travel, accommodations and tickets to all attractions. They even got a driver to pick us up here, take us to the airport and bring us back here, Erica Chandler said. I was like, I feel so special. Tuckers maternal grandmother, Joyce Kerns, who goes by Gigi, is his favorite person ever, and she contacted the foundation in the early days of his diagnosis. Things seemed so scary then, the family said, they werent sure what the future held. Hearts wonky impulses When Tucker was diagnosed 18 months ago, he was put on a daily beta-blocker which causes the heart to beat more slowly and with less force. Thats designed to eliminate the sudden exertion where your electrical impulses get kind of wonky, his mother said. She believes that Tucker fainted during those earlier incidents in 2021 while on the school track, playing in the yard and and when running for the bus, but was able to recover quickly. As his cardiologist explained, if he wasnt on medication, each time he would faint, it would go longer and longer until it got to cardiac arrest, she said. The diagnosis has changed life for the Chandlers and their extended family. Tucker, who is learning disabled, has become more anxious at times, fearful that an activity will cause him to pass out. His parents encourage him to listen to his body to sit a spell and drink lots of water when he feels a little off. But they dont want him to sit out on physical activity altogether. I cant take away his whole childhood, his mother said. Tuckers doctor initially said no swimming in cold water or bike riding, and thats tough when the family has 3 acres of open land and a pool in the backyard. But his parents have gotten an automated external defibrillator, AED, for the home and both are trained in CPR. When Tucker frolics in the pool, the water is typically warm as a result of summertime heat, and an adult is always watching. Hes excluded from having to do any timed physical activities at Margaret Brent Elementary School, where hes a rising fourth grader. Tucker already has an individualized education program, or IEP, for his learning needs so his parents have added his physical adjustments to it. At school, Tucker is a kind friend to classmates, someone whos always ready with a loud dinosaur sound to provide comic relief if things get too quiet or serious, said Jeniffer Doyle, his third-grade teacher. She called him one of her sweetest students. He has already promised me that hell visit me every morning next year for a big hug to start his day, Doyle said. Runs in the family Tucker wasnt the only one in his family diagnosed with the genetic disorder. Both parents and siblings and both sets of grandparents, who all live in Stafford County, were tested after his falls in 2021. His mother and maternal grandfather, Roger Sims of Stafford, have the same issue with their hearts electrical impulses. Sims regularly has heart palpitations, and had some endurance issues while in the military, but said hes gone this long without being treated and plans to keep it that way. Erica Chandler fainted once, while pregnant with Tucker, and said the issue was chalked up to her condition. But she also got winded while exercising as a child and believes she was misdiagnosed as having asthma. She also went on the same beta-blocker as her son, but a higher dosage, and has seen a change. She has a safety plan in place when she exercises making sure those around her know what shes doing, and even the children know where the AED is located. When its turned on, the AED gives voice commands on what to do next. I dont have symptoms anymore, being on medication, and I have tried to make it a point, not just for my cardio health, but to show Tucker that it is OK to still exercise, she said. You can still do the things that you love to do even though you have this condition. A World War II veteran will celebrate his 100th birthday Wednesday, but declared this week hes gonna be 21 again. Alfred Zieg, a former first-class electronics technician in the Navy, was born on May 31, 1923, in Waco to Henry and Alma (Hinze) Zieg. As one of nine siblings, Zieg was in the middle of five brothers and three sisters. Only a younger brother remains today. His father worked as a depot agent for the railroad after moving to America from Prussia. Zieg too would join the railroad industry in Las Vegas after graduating from Scribner High School in 1941. But when he was 19, Ziegs life changed forever. In December 1941, he traveled to Reno, Nevada, where he enlisted in the Navy. I always favored the Navy, but to come back home, I figured I had the best chance in the Navy, Zieg said. I found out it couldve been the worst choice for the ships we lost and the guys. He knew the draft was coming and signed up for a program where he would learn the radar system. However, Zieg never went through Naval basic training and he didnt know how to swim. Eventually, Zieg would board the AGC-9, also known as the USS Wasatch, which launched Oct. 8, 1943. During WWII, the USS Wasatch was assigned to the Asiatic-Pacific Theater, where it would earn four battle stars for her service. The ship, along with two other command ships, had to be kept secret because they would be a high priority target for enemy planes and submarines. About 900 crewmen were aboard the USS Wasatch with Capt. Alford M. Granum in command. War hero and military leader Gen. Douglas MacArthur and Adm. Thomas Kinkaid occasionally boarded his ship as well. To Ziegs knowledge, he is the last surviving crewman. Zieg would become a first-class electronic technician, helping take care of all the transmissions that were being sent to each ship in addition to changing the antennas. He was known as Antenna Al because he was the only one who would climb some 100 feet above water without a harness to change an antenna. Zieg met his future wife, Thelma, in high school when his family moved to Scriber. He later reached out to Thelma asking for her brothers military address, which she sent via letter. Thelma continued to write to Zieg nearly every day that he was away and he wrote back when time allowed. We were busy, Zieg said. We didnt sit there with our feet up on the desk and enjoying the nice scenery. We went there to get the job done. Yet, through all the months on the ship, he still found beauty in the dullness and time to write back to Thelma. You sit on the fantail of a ship with the moon shining and the moon shines all the way down the water to the ship. Theres some beautiful things that if you want to take the time to do it, Zieg said. The men on board did have some occasional fun. He recalled seeing Comedian Bob Hope and Actress Dorothy Lamour perform on the Island of Samar in the Philippines. On Feb. 22, 1946, Zieg returned to Scriber on his first discharge for 30 days, and he asked Thelma to marry him, even though the two had never been on an actual date. They got married on March 24, 1946, and were married for 62 years before her passing in 2008. She was nice and she liked everything simple, Zieg said. When you meet the right one, it blends and you know. Its hard to describe. The couple had three children together Nancy, Tom and Jim who all live in Lincoln. Tom was stationed in Vietnam for the Navy for four years. His other son Jim wasnt in the military, but still had to live with the effects that WWII had on Zieg. When Jim was in the fourth grade, he had to have a kidney removed and they related that back to me, Zieg said. Zieg was contaminated with radiation while stationed in Japan. For more than 40 years, Zieg has had to take coumadin, also known as warfarin, to help treat the leukemia that has formed throughout his body. Hes lost most of his hearing and said his lungs are scarred worse than a lifetime smoker. After 38 months of service, Zieg was discharged on Feb. 22, 1946, after returning to the United States from Taku, China. I was lucky, Zieg said. The good Lord walked with me the whole time I was in the service. The Lord took me to war, and the Lord brought me back. Many military members of WWII were not so lucky. Zieg still recalls the painful memory of having to find his fellow service members in the water. Thats part of my life and its a part I cant forget, he said. Through it all, Zieg said they went to win freedom, which he wants people to enjoy. To win the war, we could win freedom. Freedom of everything. Thats what we fought for and thats what we intend to keep. And if we have to go back again to do that, its got to be that way, Zieg said. You got to enjoy every day. Maybe tomorrow is a day you wont get to enjoy because youre gonna be gone and thats the way it is. It will always be that way. And hell enjoy that freedom this week, with plans to visit a Nebraska staple Runza with friends for his birthday. Thats what Im gonna have, a Runza hamburger and a strawberry milkshake, he said. U.S. states with the most World War II veterans U.S. States With the Most World War II Veterans The percentage of US veterans continues to decline each decade The total veteran population has declined by nearly 5M over the past 10 years California and Florida have the most WWII veterans 15. Virginia 14. Missouri 13. Pennsylvania 12. Rhode Island 11. Nevada 10. Delaware 9. Ohio 8. New Mexico 7. Washington 6. Idaho 5. New Hampshire 4. Montana 3. Maine 2. Utah 1. Oregon The numbers of students missing 15 days or more of school in a given year is on the rise in the US. Evidence shows certain approaches can get kids back in school and help them stay in class. LINCOLN A pair of Nebraska lawmakers are joining a national push to make Washington, D.C. the nations 51st state. Legislative Resolution 146, introduced by Lincoln State Sens. Danielle Conrad and George Dungan, would urge Nebraskas congressional delegation to support statehood for the nations capital if passed by the full Legislature. This would be a non-binding encouragement to U.S. Reps. Mike Flood, Don Bacon and Adrian Smith and U.S. Sens. Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts. Conrad described the resolution, introduced on May 11, as a way to strengthen the countrys democracy and ensure equal rights for all its citizens. I think that each state has a part to play, as do our federal representatives to try and correct a historic wrong in regards to the legal status of the residents in our nations capital, Conrad told the Nebraska Examiner. Washington, D.C. has one non-voting delegate in the U.S. House of Representatives, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, and no Senate representation. Encouragement and incentive Dungan said the importance of direct representation is also in allowing the district to adopt its own rules and regulations without being mired in national politics. Congress has a sort of veto power over D.C. laws, such as those passed by the D.C. City Council, and it is able to reject some of those laws in a way similar to a governor for state action or president for congressional action. For example, the U.S. House in February passed a resolution defeating proposed changes that D.C. officials wanted to make to local immigration and criminal penalty policies. Congress has also used its power to pass provisions prohibiting the sale of marijuana and banning the district from using Medicaid funds to fund abortions for low-income residents. Dungan said the resolution is essentially encouragement and incentive. We cant bind people to anything, obviously, with an LR, but I think that the information contained in the resolution, if read, is certainly compelling, Dungan said. Conrad, the former head of the ACLU of Nebraska, noted that D.C. has a significant Black population, so the conversation is also about civil rights. I just really feel like its important to put our politics aside and try and address that historical injustice, because its just a matter of fundamental fairness for me, Conrad said. Legal questions of statehood The U.S. House has passed two historic resolutions in support of D.C. statehood, for the first time in June 2020 and again in April 2021. Bacon and former U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry voted against both, while Smith voted against it in 2020 but did not vote on the 2021 resolution. No similar legislation has come up for a vote during Floods time in office nor in the U.S. Senate for Fischer or Ricketts. In a 2021 statement, Bacon said there are three issues with D.C. statehood, including a specific clause in the U.S. Constitution and the Twenty-Third Amendment. Article I, Section 8, Clause 17 of the Constitution addresses the size of the federal district while the Twenty-Third Amendment afforded presidential electors to D.C. Bacon said he could not support statehood unless changes were made to that clause and amendment. Conrad said the legal questions are important to the dialogue but have been unequivocally answered by historians and legal scholars. Its important to update the legal framework, Conrad said, but D.C. residents deserve full and equal political participation and representation. Its just really that simple, she said. She encouraged Nebraskas congressional delegation to keep an open mind and to think deeply about how everyone can work to ensure full and equal voting rights and representation. A seat at the table Bacon also criticized past efforts as a liberal political power grab, with the goal of adding two more Democrats to the Senate. However, Conrad and Dungan, two registered Democrats in the officially nonpartisan Legislature, pushed back and said its about representation, not politics. D.C. residents have voted in favor of statehood in the past, and the states population is larger than Wyoming and Vermont and comparable to Alaska and North Dakota. Dungan said he lived in D.C. for a while, including going to law school before coming back to Nebraska. It comes from a real deep-seated desire to have people have their voices heard, Dungan said. Thats kind of been my Northstar for a lot of my politics is making sure people have their voices heard. Conrad said that due to the dynamics of the 2023 session, and with just about a week left in the session, she has asked that the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee wait for a substantive hearing until 2024. Well look forward to digging into the issue more over the interim and trying to build support for that hearing next year, Conrad said. Puerto Rico status Some have brought up the issue of what to do with the territory of Puerto Rico in addition to D.C. statehood. Nebraska Sens. Danielle Conrad and George Dungan, both of Lincoln, said the issues are related but carry different historical and legal issues than D.C. Still, they agreed, representation is critical. In December 2022, U.S. Rep. Don Bacon supported a measure for the people of Puerto Rico to determine their next steps forward, whether that be statehood, independence or independence followed by free association with the U.S. U.S. Reps. Mike Flood and Adrian Smith voted against the act, and it was not considered in the Senate. Conrad said she has not yet had a chance to explore with colleagues how state legislators could try and raise similar matters for Puerto Rico. However, she definitely would be open to exploring that either in tandem with this effort next year or separately if it would be helpful to educating people about these issues and trying to build support for them. President Joe Biden has a tremendous responsibility to uphold Americas core values and protect its interests. With recent events raising questions about our countrys future, it is more important than ever for our commander in chief to remind graduates of the Air Force Academy why we fight unapologetically for America first. Biden will speak at the cadet graduation Thursday in Colorado Springs. We encourage him to tell these young new officers how much their lives and service matter to the goal of world prosperity and peace. We hope he assures them of a stable, fully funded military going forward under command of a president who values their lives. Biden should remind them of the hundreds of thousands who have fought and died for this country. Their victories in preserving our way of life have led directly to a sharp decline in poverty, hunger and injustice at home and abroad. The 2023 graduating cadets begin their careers at an unfortunate time in the United States. Throughout the country, faux intellectuals preach self-righteously that our country is a blight on humanity. The academy retains integrity as anti-U.S., anti-military, anti-capitalist sentiment spreads throughout much of our entropic educational establishment. Consider: This years graduating class of the City University Of New York Law School chose and applauded a bigoted, antisemitic speaker who encouraged the fight against capitalism, racism, imperialism and Zionism around the world. Indeed, we must fight racism an irrational, hateful bane antithetical to capitalism and other key components of freedom. Half of Colorado College graduates, just south of the academy, turned their backs on former U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney as she gave Sundays graduation speech. They dislike that in Congress she guarded military budgets, blasted socialism, defended the First and Second amendments, defended law enforcement and protected religious Americans from forced funding of abortions. The Colorado Education Association this year called on public schools, in writing, to dismantle capitalism. The CEA defended the resolution as reflecting our members aspirations in our collective endeavor to create a safer and more equitable world. Our list could continue ad infinitum. Anti-American academicians in the K-college system far outnumber those who dare say America is noble and well worth defending. The Air Force, the country it defends and an economic system that provides for the world are under clear and present danger from enemies foreign and domestic. Biden, the highest-ranking commander of these new officers, will do the world a favor by telling graduates their dedication to this country is inherently virtuous. Tell them they defend the most benevolent, equitable, diverse, fair and just system the world has known. Not all threats to our national defense are ideological. Some of the countrys most patriotic, pro-American leaders allow politics to jeopardize the Air Force. Former President Donald Trump indulged a political whim by deciding on his way out of office to move Space Command from Colorado Springs within 20 minutes of the academy to an Army base 1,200 miles away and nearly 200 miles from the nearest major airport. Space Command depends on the academy to produce the best and brightest aerospace scholars. One cannot overstate the symbiotic relationship between the academy and Space Command. Moving the command within months of full operational capacity would interrupt progress, embolden our enemies, waste money and jeopardize the sovereignty we ask these cadets to defend. The people elected Biden over Trump to make key decisions about national defense. Tell these graduates Space Command will stay right where it is. We cant think of a better occasion to make this announcement. A strong United States requires a strong Air Force. A strong Air Force maintains international stability and peacekeeping efforts worldwide. It ensures that rogue states or terrorist organizations do not rise to power and threaten global security. By defending our values, Air Force personnel encourage people everywhere to oppose oppression and improve their lives. Air Force graduates, thank you for your dedication and service. President Biden, thank you for honoring them. Only our best and brightest get into and graduate from the academy. Today, the real work begins. Tune out the anti-American noise and defend our country with pride. Know your service saves lives and makes the world safer and more peaceful for all of humankind. The Gazette editorial board Be ashamed, new graduates: Be very ashamed. This admonition goes out to half the Class of 2023 Colorado College graduates who turned their chairs on a respected alumna invited to speak at their commencement ceremony Sunday. Those who listened respectfully in the manner of privileged, educated adults should demand apologies from those who permanently sullied a momentous, once-in-a-lifetime occasion. College graduates should act like adults, tolerating people of all backgrounds with civilized values and ideas. No one takes seriously the childlike antics of pampered adults of privilege. Colorado College is a prestigious institution known for producing top-notch graduates who have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields. This includes a few ranking Gazette associates who frown on the class that turned its back on a speaker. Anyone admitted to Colorado College has been gifted with high intellect and the financial means whether family wealth or scholarships to pay about a quarter-million in tuition before obtaining a degree. Graduating seniors who snubbed Liz Cheney, after she graciously accepted an invitation to speak, should hang their heads in shame and begin the long hard process of growing up. To whom much is given, much is expected. The cheap-seats behavior reflects poorly on themselves and the school they represent. Turning chairs and being rude to a guest speaker is unprofessional and unbecoming of an alma mater that prides itself on educating sophisticated adults. The sub-Romper-Room display began after Colorado College President L. Song Richardson explained what she expects from new graduates. The liberal arts education that you received here, both inside the classroom and outside, has taught you how to think, Richardson said. Its taught you how to think critically, to welcome different perspectives, to see and understand different viewpoints, to challenge and debate each other and the ideas with which you may disagree. It fell on deaf ears. Immediately after Richardson introduced Cheney a woman known best for selfless character, strength and independent thought a cluster of children turned their chairs. Never mind that Cheney sacrificed her congressional seat contesting election deniers. Never mind the fact she serves among the most prestigious of Colorado College graduates. Never mind, because half the graduates of 2023 think so highly of themselves, they can snub her to indulge a sense of self-superiority. In prepared remarks, Cheney encouraged the students to foster respectful political discourse. We hope the half who faced her will leverage this advice. Those who turned away might lack the intellectual gravitas to process real-world wisdom. As an educational institution, Colorado Colleges brand is built on the behavior of its graduates. From their academic excellence to their personal conduct, everything they do reflects on the college and shapes how it is perceived by others. For this summer and the foreseeable future, employers will consider the unseemly conduct of these new graduates when making hiring decisions. The behavior of alumni plays a significant role in shaping the brand of any institution of higher education. A high-end brand goes directly to the value of recent degrees. A diplomas value can fluctuate much like the stock market. In recent years, there has been increased focus on ensuring that colleges create an environment that fosters good behavior among students. This includes promoting values such as respect for diversity, inclusivity and civil conduct toward others. While freedom of expression is a fundamental right that should be respected and protected, there are appropriate ways to exercise it. Turning chairs during a graduation speech does not fall into that category. While everyone has the right to express their opinions freely and openly without fear of government reprisal or retaliation, these rights come with responsibilities we must bear when expressing our perspectives especially if we choose to do so publicly at an event meant to honor academic achievement rather than partisan politics. As a society, we tend to hold those with higher education to a higher standard. We expect them to be more knowledgeable, more rational, and more thoughtful in their actions and words. Much more of this type of behavior and that expectation will collapse. We need leaders who can listen respectfully to opposing viewpoints without resorting to rudeness or unbecoming behavior. Graduates should strive for this type of leadership as they enter the workforce or continue onto further education. Sadly, about half this years 2023 graduates embarrassed themselves and an institution that deserves much better after forging a reputation over the past 150 years. All who turned their backs owe Cheney a written apology. It might help them grow up. It is the least they can do to thank their college, their respectful fellow graduates and the community for the privileged lives they take for granted. As Colorado Springs has grown and imported more and more water, Fountain Creek south of town has swelled from an intermittent stream to a river prone to erosion and flooding. The challenge of shoring up its sandy banks has fallen to the Fountain Creek Watershed District, a group now looking to expand its mission. Perhaps most well-known for Creek Week, an annual creek cleanup event, the district has also been combating erosion along Fountain Creek that can damage fish habitat and wash away property, armed with $50 million it received to offset the impacts of the Southern Delivery System, said Alli Schuch, the district's executive director. The system features a major pipeline that pumps water from Pueblo Reservoir to Colorado Springs and, once treated, that water washes back down Fountain Creek, increasing the need for erosion mitigation and flood prevention. As the town has grown more and more, water also flows off paved parking lots and streets into the creek. The district has spent $33 million working to mitigate erosion and improve stream health in a series of large projects along the Fountain. For example, near the Colorado 47 bridge over Fountain in Pueblo, the group removed piles of concrete and put in thousands of new cottonwood and willow trees to help slow down the flow of water, she said. Years of big projects have largely tapped the district's funding and it is now evaluating new directions, such as improving the watershed upstream, along Colorado Springs waterways such as Monument and Sand Creeks, and farther afield. The district incorporates El Paso and Pueblo counties. "We all deserve waterways that are enjoyable, that are assets versus liabilities," Schuch said. The district is now exploring what residents want to see along their waterways and opportunities to raise funding to help fulfill some of those visions, she said. Former Colorado Springs City Councilman and greenway advocate Richard Skorman said the waterways in town are an important opportunity to create open spaces near residents' homes, particularly as the community grows eastward. Sign up for free: Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country overnight and the stories to follow throughout the day delivered to your inbox each evening. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. The district could help by getting involved in recreation, such as building trails along creeks, improving safety along the creeks through an ambassador program, and mobilizing volunteers to help with new projects, among other options. The district has already shown its ability to bring thousands of people for Creek Week, and it could help in new areas such as organizing tree plantings to help with erosion, he said. There could also be an opportunity for the district to help apply for grants to cover wetland restoration or wildfire mitigation, because when a watershed burns, it can cause major water-quality problems, he said. While the district likely can't take on all these different missions, he expects the reimagined district can help make the Fountain Creek a jewel in the community. "Lets embrace it. Let's not turn our backs to it," he said. All those ideas would take funding, and options for new revenue include a property tax or sales tax increase or asking the governments who are members of the district for additional funds, Schuch said. Each community in the district, such as Colorado Springs and El Paso County, helps cover its administrative costs, she said. The governments pay according to their size, and so Colorado Springs covers $231,000 in administrative costs, while Green Mountain Falls pays $322, she said. But before the district pursues new revenue, it is collecting data evaluating how effective its past projects have been and finding out what the community would like to see. An open online survey invites residents to share how the district should prioritize projects, such as expanding recreation and planting trees. "We are able to actualize the values that our citizens have, hear what they are saying, and take action to protect what we all love about living here," she said. The survey can be found at fountain-crk.org/take-our-survey. FBI Director Christopher Wray blew through another subpoena deadline and faces a contempt charge for refusing to hand over a form allegedly describing a "criminal scheme" involving President Joe Biden. Rep. James Comer (R-KY), chairman of the House Oversight Committee, who is conducting an investigation into Hunter Biden's overseas business dealings, said Tuesday the FBI again declined to hand over the FBI record, which lays out an alleged "scheme" tied to Joe Biden and a yet-unnamed "foreign national" during the president's vice presidency. ALL EYES ON SWING VOTE MASSIE IN DEBT CEILING BILL DEBATE Comer had sent a letter to Wray last week threatening to initiate contempt of Congress proceedings if the FBI director did not cooperate, and Wray quickly scheduled a phone call for this Wednesday in response, but Comer and Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) still demanded that the FBI hand over the document by Tuesday or face possible contempt. The FBI director again refused to do so. "Today, the FBI informed the Committee that it will not provide the unclassified documents subpoenaed by the Committee," Comer said late Tuesday afternoon. "The FBI's decision to stiff-arm Congress and hide this information from the American people is obstructionist and unacceptable." Comer added, "While I have a call scheduled with FBI Director Wray tomorrow to discuss his response further, the Committee has been clear in its intent to protect Congressional oversight authorities and will now be taking steps to hold the FBI Director in contempt of Congress for refusing to comply with a lawful subpoena." The FBI also released a statement Tuesday, calling Comer's escalation before the planned Wednesday phone call "unnecessary." "The FBI remains committed to cooperating with the Committee in good faith. In a letter to Chairman Comer earlier today, the FBI committed to providing access to information responsive to the Committee's subpoena in a format and setting that maintains confidentiality and protects important security interests and the integrity of FBI investigations," the FBI statement said. "Last week, Director Wray scheduled a telephone call for tomorrow to provide additional details of the FBI's extraordinary accommodation to satisfy the subpoena request," it added. "Any discussion of escalation under these circumstances is unnecessary." The FBI chief will speak with Wray on Wednesday despite ignoring the Tuesday deadline. "It shouldn't have taken the threat of holding FBI Director Wray in contempt for him to finally agree to a phone call that Chairman Comer and Sen. Grassley requested over a week ago," a spokesperson for Comer's committee told the Washington Examiner last week. "The FBI must produce the unclassified record by May 30, or the Oversight Committee will initiate contempt of Congress proceedings. The subpoenaed record is already two weeks past due." Comer had sent the FBI a letter in early May telling the bureau that "whistleblower disclosures" indicated that the FBI and Justice Department are "in possession" of an FD-1023 form that describes an "alleged criminal scheme" involving Joe Biden and a foreign national "relating to the exchange of money for policy decisions." An FD-1023 form is a document the FBI uses to record interviews with a confidential human source. The GOP chairman described the reasoning behind the subpoena in the May 3 letter sent to Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland. The letter was authored jointly with Grassley, who is also investigating Biden family finances linked to China and Ukraine. "The FBI has continued to tie itself in knots to ignore a legitimate subpoena from Congress, which has a constitutional duty of oversight," Grassley said last week, adding, "The FBI knows exactly what document Chairman Comer and I are seeking, and if they know us at all, they know we will get it, one way or another." Comer fired off a May 3 subpoena to the FBI to hand over "all FD-1023 forms, including within any open, closed, or restricted access case files, created or modified in June 2020, containing the term Biden', including all accompanying attachments and documents to those FD-1023 forms." The FBI had until May 10 to turn the document over, but it has repeatedly refused despite Comer's staff meeting with FBI staff on May 15 and May 23. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER Comer last week narrowed the subpoena document request with two new terms: "June 30, 2020" and "five million." Those terms were a "reference to the amount of money the foreign national allegedly paid to receive the desired policy outcome," according to Comer's office. "Americans deserve the truth, and the Oversight Committee will continue to demand transparency from this nation's chief law enforcement agency," Comer said Tuesday. Original Location: Biden investigation: Wray headed for contempt after defying 'criminal scheme' FBI subpoena Washington Examiner Videos By Jonathan Landay WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Qatari prime minister held secret talks with the supreme leader of the Taliban this month on resolving tension with the international community, a source briefed on the meeting said, signaling a new willingness by Afghanistan's rulers to discuss ways to end their isolation. The May 12 meeting in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar between Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani and Haibatullah Akhunzada is the first the reclusive Taliban chief is known to have held with a foreign leader. U.S. President Joe Biden's administration was briefed on the talks and is "coordinating on all issues discussed" by the pair, including furthering dialogue with the Taliban, said the source. The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said other issues Sheikh Mohammed raised with Haibatullah included the need to end a Taliban bans on girls' education and women's employment. The meeting represents a diplomatic success for Qatar, which has criticized Taliban restrictions on women while using long-standing ties with the Islamist movement to push for deeper engagement with Kabul by the international community. The United States has led demands for the Taliban to end the bans on girls' schooling and women working, including for U.N. agencies and humanitarian groups, to restore their freedom of movement and bring Afghans from outside Taliban ranks into government. The source's comments suggested that Washington supported elevating what have been unproductive lower-level talks in the hope of a breakthrough that could end the world's only bans of their kind and ease dire humanitarian and financial crises that have left tens of millions of Afghans hungry and jobless. The White House declined to comment on the talks. The State Department and the Qatar embassy in Washington did not respond to requests for comment. The Taliban did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Ali Jalali, a former Afghan interior minister, said he does not believe Haibatullah will engage in serious dialogue with the United States and other powers until he eliminates factional rivalries and differences over Afghanistan's ban on girls' education. Haibatullah "is going to hold his cards and until he consolidates his power," said Jalali, a professor at the U.S. National Defense University. EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT BANS The restrictions on women's schooling and work have stymied humanitarian aid and are key reasons why no country has recognized Taliban rule since they seized power in August 2021, after the Western-backed government collapsed as the last U.S.-led international troops departed following two decades of war. The treatment by the Taliban of women and girls could amount to a crime against humanity, according to a U.N. report presented in March at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. The Taliban say they respect womens rights in line with their interpretation of Islamic law and Afghan customs. Haibatullah, a hardline Islamist, has shown little willingness to compromise on his edicts. His meeting with Sheikh Mohammed, however, suggests that he is open to exploring avenues for ending Afghanistan's isolation and boosting relief programs as the country sinks into hunger and poverty. "It was a very positive meeting," said the source. Haibatullah was "very interested" in continuing a dialogue with the international community. But eventual recognition by other countries of the Taliban administration, senior members of which remain under U.S. and international sanctions, is far from assured given their treatment of women and poor human rights record. Sheikh Mohammed raised with Haibatullah the need to lift the bans on women's education and employment, including the bar on them working for U.N. agencies and other humanitarian groups, the source said. The Taliban administration has been promising since January written guidelines allowing aid groups to operate with female staff. The Taliban in March 2022 barred girls from high schools and extended the ban to universities in December. They say they will reopen secondary schools to girls when "conditions" have been met, including devising an Islamic syllabus. ADDRESSING HUMANITARIAN CRISIS Sheikh Mohammed and Haibatullah also discussed efforts to remedy Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis, the source said. The United Nations says nearly three-quarters of Afghanistan's 40 million people need help and it has warned that funding is drying up. Sheikh Mohammed, the source said, raised with Haibatullah the "continued efforts on the ground" by the Taliban on counterterrorism, an apparent reference to Kabul's drive to crush an Islamic State affiliate. The main ideological foe of the Taliban is based mostly in eastern Afghanistan but has targeted minorities and embassies in Kabul. The U.S. and its allies say the Taliban harbor members of al Qaeda and the Pakistani Taliban. The Afghan Taliban deny that. Sheikh Mohammed, who also serves as Qatar's foreign minister, met publicly in Kandahar with Mullah Hassan Akhund, the Taliban prime minister, on the same day he met the supreme leader. He was accompanied by Qatar's intelligence chief. Neither side, however, revealed the talks with Haibatullah. He almost never leaves Kandahar but has been the paramount religious, political and military leader of the Taliban since 2016, guiding the movement to victory over the Western-backed Kabul government. Qatar allowed the militants to open a political office in Doha in 2013 and facilitated their talks with Washington that led to the 2020 deal for a withdrawal of the U.S.-led international force that they fought for 20 years. While the tiny Gulf monarchy has no formal diplomatic ties with Afghanistan, its Kabul embassy is open and represents U.S. interests there. Qatar has long pressed the international community to agree a "roadmap" of steps for the Taliban to gain recognition, arguing that isolating Afghanistan could worsen regional security. (Reporting by Jonathan Landay; additional reporting by Kabul newsroomEditing by Don Durfee and Deepa Babington) CLIVE, Iowa Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) touted his record as an anti-woke governor and dinged first son Hunter Biden during his first in-person event as a presidential candidate in the early voting state of Iowa. "It is great for me to report that our 'Great American Comeback' starts by sending Joe Biden back to his basement in Delaware," DeSantis told the Clive crowd Tuesday. BIDEN NEEDS TO SHELVE TAX INCREASES AND FOCUS ON SPENDING DeSantis, who declared his candidacy for the 2024 Republican nomination last week, delivered a red-meat address covering abortion access to China, receiving multiple standing ovations for his opposition to so-called indoctrination instead of education in Florida's schools. One of DeSantis's loudest applause lines was for his criticism of "an unaccountable, weaponized administrative state that unevenly wields authority, depending on its targets." "Two different sets of rules, depending on whether you're a member in good standing of elite society or not," he said. "If Hunter [Biden] were Republican, he would have been in jail years ago." Other memorable moments included DeSantis, a Yale University and Harvard Law School-educated Navy veteran, speaking about his decision to enlist over a more lucrative career and when he invited wife Casey to talk to the audience. DeSantis has created interest in Iowa, reflected by the parking lot for his launch event being full more than an hour before it was set to start. Extra parking spaces were spray-painted on an adjacent field, undercutting the campaign's reputation for disorganization, though an aide later confirmed that was done by Eternity Church, the governor's host. Roughly 1,000 people were estimated to be in the auditorium, with two overflow rooms nearby. Cheers could be heard around the room when the lights went down, the crowd expecting Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) to introduce DeSantis, but another aide quickly turned them back on, signaling the campaign was running slightly behind schedule. When she did step into the spotlight, Reynolds amplified DeSantis as a founding member of the House Freedom Caucus and his wife's work as first lady. "Here he is to kick off his campaign, his first stop as a candidate for the president, president of the United States of America," Reynolds said to delayed claps. Iowa is central to DeSantis's strategy to break former President Donald Trump's stranglehold on the 2024 Republican nomination, particularly members of the state's evangelical community who have had to overlook their concerns with Trump. That strategy was underscored Tuesday by DeSantis choosing Eternity Church, a Des Moines suburbs megachurch, for his first event. Beforehand, DeSantis also met with 15 local pastors, who prayed over the governor and his wife. DeSantis campaign spokesman Andrew Romeo previewed Tuesday how the governor's four-day, 12-city tour of Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina this week will introduce the public to his vision for America after describing the country as being in "decline" and in need of a "Great American Comeback" in his announcement video. Romeo additionally said Tuesday that DeSantis will return to Iowa on Saturday for Sen. Joni Ernst's (R-IA) annual Roast and Ride fundraiser. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER "Iowa is very important," DeSantis told Fox News this week. "We obviously have a lot in common with Iowa in terms of what Florida has done and what they've done under Gov. Kim Reynolds. And I think the groundswell of support has been really, really strong. We're going to press the case." Trump has a 31 percentage point advantage on DeSantis, 53% to 22%, according to RealClearPolitics's aggregation of very early primary polls, though the governor raised a record $8.2 million on the first day of his campaign. Original Location: Hunter Biden would have 'been in jail years ago' if a Republican, DeSantis says in Iowa Washington Examiner Videos Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) said that the House Oversight Committee will be holding FBI Director Christopher Wray in contempt over his refusal to assist in the investigation of the Biden family. Greene tweeted a denunciation of the "Biden crime family," followed by her backing of Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer's (R-KY) statement in which he announced he would take steps to hold Wray in contempt of Congress. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., speaks during a news conference at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, May 18, 2023. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) J. Scott Applewhite/AP DEBT LIMIT DEAL: WHERE IT STANDS AND WHAT IS STILL TO COME "FBI Director Wray's continuous attempts to protect Joe Biden and his entire criminal family to further our country's two-tiered justice system must come to an end. That's why @GOPOversight will be holding Chris Wray in contempt of Congress," Greene tweeted. Greene attached Comer's statement in her tweet. "Today, the FBI informed the Committee that it will not provide the unclassified documents subpoenaed by the Committee," Comer wrote late Tuesday afternoon. "The FBI's decision to stiff-arm Congress and hide this information from the American people is obstructionist and unacceptable." Comer added, "While I have a call scheduled with FBI Director Wray tomorrow to discuss his response further, the Committee has been clear in its intent to protect Congressional oversight authorities and will now be taking steps to hold the FBI Director in contempt of Congress for refusing to comply with a lawful subpoena." The feud came after Comer unveiled evidence obtained through subpoenas that "the Biden family, their business associates, and their companies received over $10 million" from companies belonging to foreign nationals. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER Comer listed the names of nine Biden family members that he believes are implicated in the payments. The memo names Hunter Biden; James Biden; James Biden's wife, Sara; Beau Biden's widow and Hunter Biden's ex-girlfriend, Hallie Biden; Hunter Biden's ex-wife, Kathleen Buhle; Hunter Biden's wife, Melissa Cohen; and three children of Joe Biden or of James Biden as having received payments. The FBI has repeatedly refused to hand over a bureau form that Comer claims describes a "criminal scheme" involving then-Vice President Joe Biden and an unnamed "foreign national." The agency argued that "as is clear from the name itself, confidentiality is definitional to the FBI's Confidential Human Source program" and that "significant harm to investigative work and to the program as a whole could result from dissemination of FD-1023s or other similar documents." Original Location: Marjorie Taylor Greene attacks Biden 'criminal family' and says Oversight will hold Wray in contempt Washington Examiner Videos By Hyunsu Yim and Soo-hyang Choi SEOUL (Reuters) - North Korea's Kim Yo Jong, leader Kim Jong Un's sister, said her country would soon put a military spy satellite into orbit and promised Pyongyang would increase its military surveillance capabilities, state media KCNA reported on Thursday. The remarks by Kim, a powerful ruling party official, came a day after a failed attempt at launching the country's first spy satellite, which plunged into sea. Kim rejected condemnation of the launch by Washington and other countries as an infringement of its sovereign right to space development. "It is certain that (North Korea's) military reconnaissance satellite will be correctly put on space orbit in the near future and start its mission," Kim said in an English-language statement carried by KCNA. Soon after the launch vehicle failed, South Korea detected debris that splashed down off its west coast and began a salvage operation in the hopes of studying the new rocket. "The part we found appears to be the second stage of the rocket," South Korea's Defence Minister Lee Jong-sup told parliament on Thursday. "We are continuing search operations to find more, including the third stage and the payload. A large and heavy object remains submerged, and will require time and specialised equipment to raise it, Lee added. It was not clear when the North might try another launch. It may take weeks or more to resolve the problems that caused the rocket's failure, a South Korean lawmaker said on Wednesday, citing the South's intelligence agency. In a rare and swift admission of the setback, KCNA reported just hours after the launch that the Chollima-1 rocket, carrying a military reconnaissance satellite known as "Malligyong-1", crashed into the sea after the second stage engine failed. KCNA also published on Thursday images of what it said was the new rocket lifting off from a coastal launch pad. The white-and-gray rocket had a bulbous nose, apparently for carrying a satellite or other cargo. The photos confirmed that the rocket is a new design, said Ankit Panda of the U.S.-based Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. "The launch used the new coastal launch pad they've built at Tongchang-ri, so we might see a larger space launch vehicle use the traditional gantry that has seen some work recently," he added. U.S.-based monitors, including 38 North and the Center for Strategic and International Studies, reported that commercial satellite imagery showed significant activity at the main pad after Wednesday's launch. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said it could be presumed from North Korea's state media photos that the rocket was launched from a new pad. Wednesday's launch was widely criticized, including by South Korea, Japan and the United States. Speaking in Tokyo, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said, "North Korea's dangerous and destabilising nuclear and missile programs threaten peace and stability in the region." U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said any launch by Pyongyang using ballistic missile technology breaches Security Council resolutions, a spokesperson said. In her statement, Kim Yo Jong said the criticisms of the launch were "self-contradiction" as the U.S. and other countries have already launched "thousands of satellites." "The U.S. is a group of gangsters who would claim that even if the DPRK launches a satellite ... it is illegal and threatening," she said, using the initials of North Korea's official name. South Korea's foreign ministry said Kim's claim is based on "distorted" views that defy the United Nations' hope for regional peace. In a separate statement carried by KCNA, North Korea's vice foreign minister Kim Son Gyong criticized U.S.-led military drills in the region including a multinational anti-proliferation naval drill. (Reporting by Hyunsu Yim and Josh Smith; Additional reporting by Soo-hyang Choi; Editing by Chris Reese, Grant McCool and Gerry Doyle) Former San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin is not running for office in 2024 and is leaving the political world behind "for now." Boudin was voted out of office in June 2022 by those unhappy with his soft-on-crime approach. Now, he is serving as the newly appointed executive director of the University of California Berkeley Law's new Criminal Law & Justice Center, taking a step away from the political sphere but maintaining his "lifelong commitment to fixing the criminal justice system." BIDEN WORKS TO PUSH DEBT CEILING DEAL OVER THE FINISH LINE "As I learned during my two-and-a-half years as San Francisco's elected district attorney, it takes far more than winning elections to achieve lasting progress," Boudin wrote in an opinion piece to the San Francisco Chronicle. "That's why, rather than seek another elected office in 2024, I'm choosing a different path for now one that is still consistent with my lifelong commitment to fixing the criminal legal system, ending mass incarceration and innovating data-driven solutions to public safety challenges," Boudin continued. Boudin expressed his disapproval of both liberal and conservative politicians and law enforcement officials, saying lawmakers are "kneecapping efforts to move toward workable solutions" instead of showing leadership. "It behooves all of us to pin down what does and doesn't work in the criminal justice space and to foster a political climate capable of actually adopting good public policy consistent with our principles and our Constitution," the former district attorney wrote. He drew on personal experiences with his biological parents, who he said spent a combined 62 years in prison. "A lifetime of visiting them behind bars, together with the years I spent as a public defender and then an elected prosecutor, taught me how catastrophically California and the nation's current approach to justice are failing," Boudin said. In this Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2020, file photo, San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin speaks to reporters before his swearing-in ceremony in San Francisco. Jeff Chiu/AP The ousted district attorney was recalled and replaced by current San Francisco Attorney General Brooke Jenkins, who had resigned while serving under Boudin and ran a campaign slamming her former boss for his lax treatment of violent criminals and drug offenders. Jenkins said at her swearing-in ceremony that she planned to "restore accountability and consequences to our criminal justice system." Boudin announced shortly after his recall in August 2022 that he would not seek the office again. Jenkins won her election to a full term in November 2022. In California, both police and district attorneys have blamed the state's Proposition 47, called the Safer Neighborhoods and Schools Act, or Prop 47, for an increase in crime, drug abuse, and homelessness. Prop 47 reduced penalties for certain nonviolent property and drug crimes, moving some charges from felonies to misdemeanors. Prosecutors and sheriffs said Prop 47 weakened their powers and removed the incentive for criminals to go to drug rehab instead of prison. However, Boudin said the new center will be focusing on jail diversion programs that he claimed were "loudly criticized" during his tenure but "barely had time to get off the ground." CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER "The long-term task and responsibility of those who believe in a more just criminal legal system are to educate the public to see these issues with greater clarity and to mobilize that public to build institutions and infrastructure capable of supporting a society that is safe and just for all," he wrote. "That work is now more important than ever. I look forward to the challenge of taking it on," Boudin continued. Original Location: Ousted San Francisco DA reveals 2024 plans Washington Examiner Videos KHARTOUM (Reuters) -Sudan's army suspended talks with a rival paramilitary force on Wednesday over a ceasefire and aid access, raising fears the six-week-old conflict will push Africa's third largest country deeper into a humanitarian crisis. The armed forces said in a statement it halted talks in the Saudi city of Jeddah, accusing the other side of a lack of commitment in implementing any terms of the agreement and a continuous violation of the ceasefire. The negotiations with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which began in early May, had produced a declaration of commitments to protect civilians and two short-term truce agreements, although those deals were repeatedly violated. Eyewitnesses reported on Wednesday that the RSF had expanded its footprint within central Khartoum's Mogran district. They also reported heavy clashes across the Nile in northern Omdurman and northern Bahri through Wednesday evening. At least 17 people were killed and 106 injured after projectiles fell on a market in a dense southern Khartoum on Wednesday, the doctors union said in a statement. It said the local Bashair hospital, one of the few still operating in the capital, was overwhelmed. The war has killed hundreds of people, displaced more than 1.2 million inside Sudan and driven 400,000 others across borders to neighbouring states, the United Nations says. The army, which relies on air power and artillery, and the RSF, a more lightly armed force that has dominated on the ground in Khartoum, had agreed to extend a week-long ceasefire deal by five days just before its Monday expiry. Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, a career military officer, and RSF General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, a former militia commander known as Hemedti, have been locked in a battle for power since April 15. Neither side seems to have an edge. "We do not want to use lethal force. We still haven't used our maximum strength ... We don't want to destroy the country," Burhan said in a military video released on Tuesday, speaking to cheering forces at a military base with a gun slung on his back. "But if the enemy does not obey and does not respond we will be forced to use the strongest force we have." The RSF said in a statement late on Tuesday it was committed to the ceasefire "despite repeated violations" by the army. In a video released by the RSF on Wednesday, Hemedti's brother and RSF number two Abdelrahim Dagalo called on army soldiers to desert and work together with the RSF. "Anyone who wants Sudan's best interests should leave Burhan," he said, adding that his brother was well and on the front lines. Sudan has a history of political upheaval, coups and internal conflicts, but violence had previously hit regions far from Khartoum, which is home to millions of people. CHALLENGING NEGOTIATIONS Commenting on the Sudanese army's withdrawal from the Jeddah talks, Mohamed El Hacen Lebatt, African Union spokesperson on the crisis in Sudan, said: "It is not surprising. It happens often. We hope the mediator will succeed to bring both parties for working on an expected ceasefire." The capital has seen widespread looting and frequent power and water supply cuts. Most hospitals have stopped functioning. Before the ceasefire deal was renewed, an army source said the army had demanded the RSF withdraw from civilian homes and hospitals as a condition for an extension. After the five-day extension was agreed, talks continued on the truce terms. The truce deal was brokered and is being remotely monitored by Saudi Arabia and the United States. They say it has been violated by both sides, although the truce has still allowed the delivery of aid to an estimated 2 million people. Clashes have also erupted outside the capital, including Darfur, a region in the far west of Sudan where a conflict that erupted in 2003 has flared on and off for years. The United Nations, some aid agencies, embassies and parts of Sudan's central government have moved operations out of the capital to Port Sudan on the Red Sea, which has remained calm. Burhan and Hemedti fell out over the chain of command and restructuring of the RSF under a planned transition to civilian rule. After conflict flared, Burhan sacked Hemedti as his deputy in the ruling council that had run Sudan since the two toppled autocratic Islamist President Omar al-Bashir in 2019. (Additional reporting by Khalid Abdelaziz in Dubai, Nafisa Eltahir in Cairo and Dawit Endeshaw in Addis Ababa; writing by Michael Georgy; editing by Edmund Blair, Mark Heinrich and Grant McCool) Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) announced on Wednesday the deployment of National Guard troops to the southern border. According to the governor, he is sending 100 troops to assist with Texas's Operation Lone Star. The troops will assist with securing the border as well as reducing the flow of fentanyl into the United States in the wake of Title 42's end earlier this month. BIDEN WORKS TO PUSH DEBT CEILING DEAL OVER THE FINISH LINE "The ongoing border crisis facing our nation has turned every state into a border state," Youngkin said. "As leadership solutions at the federal level fall short, states are answering the call to secure our southern border, reduce the flow of fentanyl, combat human trafficking, and address the humanitarian crisis." "Following a briefing from Gov. Abbott last week, Virginia is joining other states to deliver on his request for additional assistance. Given the intensive resource demands on Texas, the dangers posed by the fentanyl crisis, and impact of the border crisis on criminal activity to the Commonwealth, Virginia will do its part to assist the state of Texas's efforts with the coordinated deployment of Virginia National Guard soldiers to assist in key aspects of their mission," he explained. Youngkin and eight other Republican governors participated in a meeting with Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX) last week. In attendance were Govs. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R-AR), Brad Little (R-ID), Kim Reynolds (R-IA), Tate Reeves (R-MS), Jim Pillen (R-NE), Kevin Stitt (R-OK), Henry McMaster (R-SC), and Bill Lee (R-TN). Tennessee, Nebraska, Iowa, Idaho, Florida, and Mississippi have already announced the deployment of either National Guard troops or law enforcement to the border to assist. While the number of encounters with immigrants by the Border Patrol has dropped off by about 55% since the end of Title 42, the rate of "got-aways" has increased. According to a Washington Examiner analysis, nearly one person evaded the Border Patrol for every 2 1/2 that were intercepted following the policy's end. Prior to Title 42's end, about one person avoided being caught by the Border Patrol for every 4 that were stopped. According to a press release last week from Abbott's office, "Since the launch of Operation Lone Star, the multi-agency effort has led to over 377,000 illegal immigrant apprehensions and more than 28,000 criminal arrests, with more than 26,000 felony charges reported." The governor also noted that "Texas law enforcement has seized over 417 million lethal doses of fentanyl during this border mission." CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER Ahead of Title 42's end, President Joe Biden mobilized 1,500 active-duty troops to the southern border. However, the troops are only deployed for 90 days. They "will fill critical capability gaps, such as ground-based detection and monitoring, data entry, and warehouse support, until CBP can address these needs through contracted support," according to a statement from Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder. The troops will not be involved in law enforcement activities. Original Location: Youngkin sends National Guard troops to border, joining growing list of red states Washington Examiner Videos A Colorado House workplace harassment committee last week reviewed a complaint filed with the General Assembly's Office of Legislative Workplace Relations, the first time such a filing has been submitted to the formal process the legislature set up in 2019. According to Ben FitzSimons, director of the legislative workplace office, complaints can be filed against lawmakers or partisan staff. That category can encompass caucus staff, aides, interns or partisan volunteers. The committee discussed the complaint in a closed-door executive session, and then asked for an independent third-party investigation. Lawmakers did not disclose who the complaint was against. FitzSimons told Colorado Politics during the 2023 session that "unless a legislator is found to have violated the workplace harassment policy, specifics regarding complaints and the identities of those involved is confidential. If an investigation concludes that a legislator violated the policy, an executive summary of the report is made available to the public, including the name of the legislator, he said. The workplace harassment complaint system was set up in September 2019, with a separate committee for each chamber. It came more than a year after a report commissioned by the General Assembly found "there have been "real problems of harassment in the General Assembly that have negatively impacted lives, careers and the wellbeing of members of the legislative workplace." The report based on 528 survey responses found almost 30% reported having seen or experienced harassment, while 50% of respondents said they observed "sexist behavior and/or reported episodes of seriously disrespectful behavior." The report, conducted by the Denver-based Investigations Law Group, recommended a stand-alone human resources department, now the Office of Legislative Workplace Relations, along with a process and policy for handling complaints. To date, the office has received 10 complaints but none moved to a formal resolution process that would have put it in front of the House or Senate committees. In 2019-20, seven complaints were received. Five were addressed through "an informal process," according to the 2019-20 report. A sixth resulted in no action at the request of the complainant, and the seventh was not based on any protected classes or affiliations. In 2020-21, one complaint was received, but resulted in no action at the request of the complainant. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. In 2021-22, the most recent year for which reports are available, two complaints were received. One resulted in no action at the request of the complainant, and the other complaint that was not based on any protected classes or affiliations. The system of dealing with workplace harassment came out of the 2018 session. Rep. Steve Lebsock, D-Thornton, was expelled for sexual harassment against a fellow lawmaker and four other women, allegations found credible by a third-party investigation. He was the first lawmaker expelled since 1915, when Rep. William Howland was thrown out for committing perjury during a bribery investigation. The May 25 meeting of the House committee began with selection of a chair and vice-chair. Rep. Karen McCormick, D-Longmont was chosen chair and Rep. Ryan Armagost, R-Berthoud, was chosen vice-chair. The committee is six members, with three from each caucus. FitzSimons then explained the process, given that it's the first time the legislative committee has been convened to review a complaint. If a complaint is filed against a lawmaker or partisan staff, and the complainant chooses to use a formal resolution process, then the Office of Legislative Workplace Relations notifies the committee. In the formal resolution process, the committee looks at whether the complaint falls within the scope of the policy. If it does, the office either conducts the investigation or hires a third-party investigator, at the committee's discretion. Once the report is completed, the committee determines whether the workplace harassment policy has been violated. If that is the case, the committee would then submit to the complainant, respondent and caucus leadership an executive summary. The committee also would recommend a range of corrective actions based on the investigation, FitzSimons explained. Any corrective action would fall to caucus or chamber leadership for implementation, or to the supervising member, in the case of staff. Details of complaints are confidential, as are records related to those complaints, Fitzsimons added. The committee then met in executive session to review the complaint. "The evidence that we heard falls within the scope, McCormick said upon the conclusion of the executive session. That became the first of three motions approved by the committee, including the hiring of a third-party investigator. No timeline was identified by the committee for the investigation process. Two Republican lawmakers from Colorado said Tuesday they will oppose a deal to raise the federal debt ceiling as the GOP-controlled House moved toward a vote on the legislation. Calling the compromise negotiated between House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Joe Biden a "bad deal," U.S. Rep. Ken Buck said it's possible a majority of House Republicans will vote against the bill, though the Windsor Republican said that it likely has enough support from Democrats to pass in an expected vote Wednesday night. ALSO: The flap over Liz Cheney at Colorado College commencement. U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert said she's a "no" vote on the legislation in its current form, labeling it a "blank check" for the Biden administration. "Tomorrow's bill is a bunch of fake news and fake talking points that will do nothing to rein in out of control federal spending," the Rifle Republican said during a press conference with fellow members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus. "If every Republican voted the way they campaigned, they would vote against tomorrows bad deal, because this is the very thing we campaigned to put an end to," she added. The bill, which has members of both parties fuming, would lift the limit on U.S. government borrowing until Jan. 1, 2025, and reduces federal deficits by $1.5 trillion over the next decade, according to an analysis released late Tuesday by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. Republicans like Buck and Boebert say the deal doesn't go far enough to rein in federal spending, while some Democrats complain that restrictions on domestic spending put pressure on Americans who can least afford it. U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, D-Aurora, told CNN's Jake Tapper on Tuesday afternoon that he isn't thrilled about the deal but will likely support it. Crow noted that he shares qualms expressed by members of the House Democrats' more progressive wing over additional work requirements for some recipients of federal assistance, "because they don't really work, they're not effective and they're not grounded in reality and good policy." "But sometimes legislating is choosing between the least great options," Crow continued. What I do know for sure is we cannot default on our national debt, throw our country into a recession, lose hundreds of thousands of job and, for the first time in our nation's history, undermine the full faith and credit of our government. So there are things in this bill I'm not happy with, there are things in this bill I am fairly happy with, but we have to get this done." Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Buck, one of a handful of House Republicans who have never voted to raise the debt ceiling, said the $35 trillion in federal debt that could accumulate under the bill is "unsustainable." "We've got to figure out a way to deal with our debt, and that's not through these kind of negotiations," he told CNBC host Brian Sullivan in an appearance on the cable network's "Last Call" show Tuesday evening. Buck said both parties bear responsibility for running up the debt. "This is a bipartisan bankruptcy," he said. "I'm not blaming the Democrats; I'm not blaming the Republicans. Republicans put spending controls on the Obama administration, and as soon as the Trump administration came in, they blew right through those spending controls. I am by no means making this a partisan issue. ... But the fear that the American people have is that we're spending too much money." U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn, the third Republican member of the state's House delegation, has yet to indicate his position on the legislation. A spokeswoman told Colorado Politics on Tuesday that the Colorado Springs lawmaker was "currently deliberating" on the matter. U.S. Rep. Brittany Pettersen suggested that she's leaning toward supporting the vote in a statement to Colorado Politics. Im deeply concerned that Republicans were willing to hold our economy hostage and threaten default, but am grateful that President Biden ultimately found a path forward," the Lakewood Democrat said in a text message. "We need both long-term solutions to make sure a crisis like this cannot happen again, as well as immediate action from Congress to pass this deal." Added Pettersen: "Defaulting on our debt would have catastrophic impacts on our economy, national security, and would result in the loss of more than 10,000 jobs in Colorado alone. The bill is far from perfect, and Im still looking into all the details, but to avoid the U.S. economy collapsing and endangering millions of jobs, retirement benefits, and critical programs like Social Security and Medicaid we have to move forward with the deal we can get." Boebert quoted from former President Donald Trump's "The Art of the Deal" Tuesday morning in a social media post. 'The worst thing you can possibly do in a deal is seem desperate to make it,'" she tweeted. "'That makes the other guy smell blood, and then youre dead.'" In an uncommon move, a federal judge has asked the Colorado Supreme Court to interpret whether state law allows people who are injured on the job while operating a vehicle to seek benefits simultaneously from workers' compensation and from their employers' insurance company. Although the Supreme Court has previously issued decisions about the ability of injured workers to sue their employers' insurer, the justices have not addressed the exact scenario raised in the lawsuit of Kevin Klabon. In Klabon's case, he was operating a company vehicle when a driver crashed into him. Klabon received workers' compensation benefits but also sought money from Travelers Insurance, whose policy covered the company vehicle. U.S. Magistrate Judge N. Reid Neureiter, in a May 26 order, found it unclear whether people in Klabon's shoes can, in fact, receive compensation for their injuries from both sources of money. "The only court that can answer this question with finality as a matter of Colorado law is the Colorado Supreme Court," he wrote. Federal courts may transmit a legal question to the state Supreme Court, a process known as "certification." Certified questions are relatively rare, with the Supreme Court receiving only two in fiscal year 2019-2020, two in fiscal year 2020-2021, and none in the latest fiscal year. The most recent certified question, which the court answered in March 2022, also pertained to Colorado's treatment of insurance claims. In the absence of a legal interpretation from the Colorado Supreme Court, federal judges interpreting state law are essentially left to guess how the Supreme Court might resolve a case. By asking Neureiter to resolve Klabon's lawsuit in its favor, Travelers argued Colorado's Workers' Compensation Act is clear: When a worker is injured in a vehicle accident on the job and they receive workers' compensation benefits, they cannot also pursue a payout from the employer's insurance company. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. In Klabon's case, the at-fault driver was underinsured, meaning their vehicle insurance did not fully cover Klabon's injuries. Klabon's lawsuit alleged he incurred at least $500,000 in medical expenses from the accident, far greater than the $25,000 paid by the driver's insurer. Although Travelers' policy provided up to $1 million in underinsured motorist coverage, the company only ended up paying Klabon $45,766. Klabon alleged his employer made premium payments so that Travelers could provide coverage in the event of an accident, and Travelers was consequently failing to abide by that contract. In its corner, Travelers had a 2022 decision from U.S. District Court Senior Judge Christine M. Arguello, which also stemmed from a vehicle accident that injured a worker on the clock. Arguello acknowledged the state Supreme Court had not reviewed a case exactly like it, but she concluded the injured worker could not sue for insurance benefits after collecting workers' compensation under Colorado law. On the other hand, U.S. District Court Judge Daniel D. Domenico issued an order two years prior that found the opposite that a worker injured by a third party in a car crash can claim workers' compensation and benefits from their employer's insurance company. "Thus, this Court finds itself confronted with: directly conflicting decisions from my respected colleagues," wrote Neureiter. In transmitting the question to the Supreme Court, Neureiter noted that lawsuits involving underinsured motorists make up a "substantial portion" of the federal docket in Colorado, as insurance companies commonly transfer claims filed in state courts to the federal system. For that reason, he elaborated, the question of whether workers' compensation benefits shut off access to underinsured motorist claims "is best resolved by the Colorado Supreme Court, rather than be left to the guesswork" of federal judges. An incarcerated man, allegedly attacked by other prisoners because of his status as a sex offender, cannot sue corrections officials for failing to protect him, a federal judge ruled last month. Even though Emanuel Pittman reportedly told multiple prison officials that other inmates were threatening his life, U.S. Magistrate Judge Kristen L. Mix explained it was not enough that the defendants knew there was "merely" a risk to Pittman. Instead, there had to be a "substantial" risk of harm. "Plaintiff cannot rely solely on the allegation that they should have perceived a substantial risk from these conversations," she wrote in an April 11 order. According to his lawsuit, when Pittman arrived at Limon Correctional Facility in August 2021, he told a prison employee of rumors that sex offenders "got beat up" or were extorted at the facility. Case manager Jeremy Kahn was present for that conversation, and Pittman subsequently talked with Kahn about the purported threats to his life. "His reply was you & your kind just want something to be mad about," wrote Pittman, who represented himself in the lawsuit. Pittman also met with case manager James Gillis and Lt. Michelle Foreman, where he reiterated his life was in danger. Gillis and Foreman allegedly told him to "give them some names or return to the pod." Pittman did not name his potential assailants. He was subsequently attacked and received a black eye and a "permanent mark." In his lawsuit, Pittman alleged Kahn, Gillis and Foreman violated his Eighth Amendment right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment. To prevail, Pittman needed to show he received a relatively serious injury and that prison staff knew of, but disregarded, a substantial risk of harm. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. The defendants moved to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing Pittman refused to give any details that would enable them to protect him from otherwise-generic threats. "Plaintiff did not provide Defendants with any credible, actionable information that his safety was threatened before the assault took place," wrote the Colorado Attorney General's Office. Pittman responded that the officials knew, broadly, of an elevated risk for sex offenders and that "snitching" would also put a target on his back. Mix agreed with the government that Pittman's "vague" allegations, though communicated multiple times, failed to alert the officials that they needed to protect him. "Defendant Kahn was plausibly put on notice that a risk of harm existed, but not that a substantial risk of harm existed," she wrote. Also, "Plaintiff chose to leave the meeting rather than provide Defendants Gillis and Foreman further information regarding the threats made against his life." Pittman is currently appealing the dismissal of his lawsuit. Colorado's Jared Polis wants a wager with Florida's Ron DeSantis. A "friendly wager," that is. The prize money: Disney. In a tweet, Colorado's governor directly tagged Florida's governor and asked if the latter would want a "friendly wager." Polis also tagged Disney. "If the @nuggets win the finals against the @MiamiHEAT, Disney World will move to Colorado, the ACTUAL happiest place on earth to do business, have fun, and be free!" Polis said. The tweet carries all kinds of political overtones. The two politicians are among the most popular governors in the country, with both men winning their reelection bids by a landslide. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. DeSantis recently announced his bid to win the Republican presidential nomination. Polis, meanwhile, has long been eyed as a potential presidential contender even after Joe Biden also made his reelection bid official. Undoubtedly, Polis is teasing DeSantis over his row with Disney, a feud that has transfixed the country, and the Colorado's governor "friendly wager" reflects a progressive-conservative undercurrent. The fight began last year after Disney, beset by significant pressure both internally and externally, publicly opposed a law that bans lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity from grades 4-12, unless required by existing state standards or as part of reproductive health instruction that students can choose not to take. In response, DeSantis took over Disney Worlds self-governing district through legislation passed by Florida lawmakers and appointed a new board of supervisors that would oversee municipal services for the sprawling theme parks and hotels. DeSantis also threatened to build a state prison near park property. Disney has filed a lawsuit against the DeSantis administration, a legal battle likely to follow DeSantis through the 2024 presidential contest. Amid the fight, Disney announced that it is scrapping plans to build a new campus in central Florida that would have employed 2,000 people. The Associated Press contributed to this story. A whoopsie while using the bathroom at preschool on a cold January afternoon led 4-year-old Riker Price to this conclusion: He needed to go home and change his clothes. The towheaded boy left the restroom, exited the front door of the Learning Center at Woodland Park Community Church and headed toward his neighborhood, which is about a mile away. Riker didn't retrieve his shoes and coat from the classroom; outside, a few inches of snow covered the ground, and the temperature was below freezing. But that didnt deter Riker. He was on a mission, one that he would never complete, but which still prompts people to knock on wood because of its happy ending. His trek nevertheless has left his parents sad, confused and concerned. Theres nothing like the fear of a missing kid, said his mother, Miranda Leilani Price. And the churchs longtime child care center has been forced to make safety, security and training improvements to continue operating and is facing possible disciplinary measures pending a state investigation. Its appalling, Price said. He made it 0.8 miles along a busy highway. Someone could have snatched him off the road and took him. Rikers journey ended safely, but the anguish has continued for his parents, who believe the center mishandled the situation by delaying notification of the missing child not only to them but also to authorities. Riker walked out of the Learning Center and away from the school at 1:37 p.m. Jan. 19, according to an email the center sent to all parents at 4:24 p.m. that same day. A teacher had checked on him a few times when he was in the bathroom, asking if he was OK, and Riker said he was pooping, according to a Department of Human Services report compiled the following day. It was naptime, and the student did not return to the classroom after using the restroom, the directors email to parents said. Teachers noticed the absence and we searched inside the building and notified the parents, it read. The email does not give a timeline or details of the scenario. Video footage shows Riker skipping through a common area before using all of his might to push open the center's front door. Riker was outside the church for eight minutes before any staff member realized he was missing, the human services' Division of Child Welfare report from January states. And, Price said she was not notified that her son was no longer on school grounds until 2:08 p.m. The police were already at the church, prior to the center director calling me, Price said. A 911 call came in at 1:43 p.m., according to the police report, by Samantha Trattner, who lives nearby and was working from home that day. Trattner said she immediately realized something was wrong when she noticed a youngster darting barefoot along a recreational trail that parallels Colorado 67 North. When she ran outside, she learned Riker wasnt allowed to talk to strangers so she started following him, while at the same time calling police to report a runaway child. While on the move in tandem with Riker, Trattner provided police with updates on the boy's location. Various law enforcers responded to the emergency call, including an animal control officer, a Teller County sheriffs deputy and several city police officers. Authorities didnt know who the shivering child was or where he had come from when they caught up with him, the Woodland Park police report says. Riker provided answers about himself that were difficult to interpret, responders reported, as they bundled him into a police car and tried to figure out Rikers identity. One police officer who was combing the neighborhood to determine where Riker lived said in his report that he noticed a woman walking outside Woodland Park Community Church as though she was searching for something. When the officer stopped to ask her if she was looking for someone, she was very reluctant and hesitant to answer me, she finally did, the officer wrote. The woman was a worker at the day care center, and she asked Director Kim Leitner to speak to the police. The director told police the child must have left out the back door after he went to the restroom and that she had contacted the childs mother. Riker's mom, Price, arrived at the center a short time later, the police report said, and the officer told her Riker was safe in a police vehicle and would be returned to the center soon. It was 31 minutes from the time he walked out the door until the director called me, and she had never called me or the police before that, Price said. The center did respond in a timely fashion, said Randy Squires, senior elder, chairman of the Woodland Park Community Church board and head of a working group thats overseeing changes the Learning Center is making. The police were called within 10 minutes of the time we knew Riker was missing, and we have since changed our lost child procedure to 5 minutes, Squires said. Price said the churchs timeline of what transpired does not align with police accounts or Department of Human Services findings. A human services inspection report dated March 6 determined that law enforcement was not contacted regarding lost child within the time frame stated in the facilities policies and procedures. Also, the center did not self-report the mishap to Teller County officials overseeing child abuse and neglect allegations until four days after it occurred. The required timeframe to do so is 24 hours. Police notified Child Protective Services about the event but according to the police report did not file criminal charges against the center or any employees, due to several factors: the good Samaritan rescuing the child, there being no injuries to Riker, the church not having previous incidents of this nature and Price saying she did not want to pursue charges at the time. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Price said she was told she could only file charges against the teacher, and she didn't think that was right, so she declined to do so. Child Protective Services immediately removed Leitner as center director for three weeks and charged her with institutional neglect, Squires said. After an investigation, She was completely expunged through the state, he said. It doesnt show on her record anywhere. Leitner has been back on the job since. She deferred a request for an interview with The Gazette to Squires, who is handling related matters. The event of a child going missing from a child care center is rare, said Robert Tornabene, spokesman for the Colorado Springs Police Department. He said he is unaware of any recent cases in El Paso County, and when such an event does occur, the child might be located quickly and that information most likely would not move its way to our office. As anything involving kids in particular, when there are a large number of them, human error may play a factor when this happens, Tornabene said. It is our hope that these facilities have procedures and measures in place to reduce the risk of a child getting out of a day care center. In its 20 years of operation, the Learning Center has never lost a child before, Squires said. The state inspection report from March identified other licensing violations including: Allowing children to go to the bathroom unsupervised, teachers leaving the classroom unattended, hiring staff unqualified for the position, not following its own lost child policy, not properly training staff on the policy, allowing community members to access to the same bathrooms as the children and lacking emergency drills. The report also noted that the center director interfered or refused to cooperate with a child protection investigation, but did not explain what that meant. The state Division of Child Welfare report from January said during interviews with staff, a caseworker was repeatedly questioned by Ms. Leitner about the validity of the caseworker speaking with certain individuals, which impacted the caseworkers ability to conduct the assessment. The center has taken corrective action, Squires said, to address security, safety and operational faults. We implemented new policies and procedures, we have new cameras and door alarms on all the doors, were getting teachers trained, and we have the oversight board, he said. Weve taken a lot of steps moving forward. The church and child care center are awaiting the outcome of an adverse action report from the state licensing board, which could result in fines, a probationary period, license suspension or revocation. The state also is inspecting the center every 27 days, Squires said. About five weeks after the episode with Price's son, another mother reported to Child Protective Services that she witnessed her 4-year-old son left unsupervised at the church's Learning Center. Stephanie Cline said when she went to pick up her son on Feb. 27, no one answered the doorbell for three to four minutes. The next thing you know, I see my kids head pop up from behind the check-in desk in the front foyer, with no teacher or adult with him, she said. Cline said she rang the doorbell again and waited several more minutes until someone came to let her in. My son was out there at least five minutes, completely unattended, she said. Cline said she requested video footage, which was not made available and which had been recorded over when the state came to investigate. Cline said the church pastor and center director told her that teachers were watching her son from inside the door. If that were true, why did it take so long for someone to open the door for me, she said. If I would have called my son to the door, I would have left with him, and nobody would have known. The Learning Center has had a longstanding state ranking of four on a scale of five top measures for day care centers, Squires said. The church's new operational improvement team is going through everything, looking for potential concerns and problems, and helping get those corrected, he said. We are doing everything possible right now that we can to ensure this doesnt happen again, Squires said. Were pretty serious about making sure all of the bases are covered. For her kind-hearted and important role in reuniting Riker with his parents, Trattner received a citizens lifesaving award from Woodland Park Police Chief Chris Deisler at a City Council meeting in March. The plaque that now hangs in her home office reads: had you not intervened, the outcome of this case is unimaginable. "I definitely put that one on my wall Im proud of it, Trattner said. Ive watched kids being dropped off at school daily, she said. Look out the window, and you never know what you might see. On that terrifying day four months ago, Riker received a police badge, promised he wouldnt do anything like that anymore and apologized for his behavior. Price pulled him out of the preschool and now keeps him by her side at home and while she works as a real estate agent. The fear is still too great, but she said her business has suffered. Riker is supposed to start kindergarten in August, a step Price said she can't even think about yet. After the episode, a few other parents removed their children from the center, Squires said, reducing enrollment to about 60 students. A Division of Child Welfare report dated Jan. 23 said that 65 to 75 children attended the facility on a daily basis at that time. We want to still provide the service we provide to the community; there are not a lot of child care facilities up here, Squires said. Its a good resource to a lot of parents. Wednesday is expected to bring high temperatures and a chance of showers and storms, according to the National Weather Service in Pueblo. Thunderstorms are most likely to hit the Colorado Springs a rea between 3-4 p.m. Besides that, you can expect partly sunny skies and a high around 79. The evening will likely cool to around 50 with a 30% chance of showers, mostly before 9 p.m. Most of the Interstate 25 corridor in southeastern Colorado and parts west into the mountains of Teller, Fremont and Douglas counties have a chance of volatile weather Wednesday. The weather service says 2-inch diameter hail, wind gusts up to 60 mph, torrential rainfall and isolated tornadoes are all possible in the region. Expecting more coverage with storms for today, along with a potential for more strong to severe development as well. For the high country, mainly a heavy rain and gusty winds potential, with all modes of severe possible on our plains. #cowx pic.twitter.com/2iW632IkSC NWS Pueblo (@NWSPueblo) May 31, 2023 Here is the full week's forecast from the National Weather Service: Thursday: A 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 78. Sign Up for Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Friday: A 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Mostly sunny, with a high near 75. Saturday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after noon. High near 68. Chance of precipitation is 90%. Sunday: A chance of showers, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after noon. High near 71. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Monday: Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 73. Tuesday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 75. A tornado was spotted just outside of Lamar on Tuesday afternoon after the National Weather Service in Pueblo issued a tornado warning for the area. The weather service said law enforcement confirmed a tornado touched down 9 miles southeast of Queens Reservoir, about 10 miles northeast of Lamar. According to the weather service, the tornado was moving north at 20 mph. The tornado warning, issued for northwestern Prowers County and southeastern Kiowa County, expired at 4:45 p.m. A severe thunderstorm warning is also in affect for Lamar and Sheridan Lake until 5:15 p.m. Quarter sized hail is possible with winds of up to 60 mph. Residents are asked to take cover and move to a basement or interior room of the lowest floor in a sturdy building. Those in the area should avoid windows. Anyone in a mobile home, outdoors or in a vehicle should move to a nearby substantial shelter for protection from flying debris, the weather service said. During a tornado warning, residents in the affected areas should expect damage to mobile homes, roods and vehicles. Sign Up for Springs AM Update Your morning rundown of the latest news from Colorado Springs and around the country Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. A strong thunderstorm is expected to impact northeastern El Paso County through 6:15 p.m., according to the weather service. Winds of up to 40 mph with pea-sized hail are possible. The strong winds could knock down tree limbs as well as blow unsecured objects around. Residents should consider seeking shelter and going indoors. At 5:36 p.m., the Colorado Springs Police Department announced westbound Barnes Road is closed at Powers Boulevard because of street flooding. Drivers should use alternate routes and never drive through flood waters. Pea-sized hail is possible until 6:45 p.m. in Black Forest with winds up to 40 mph. The National Weather Service in Pueblo issued a severe thunderstorm warning until 11 p.m. for Baca, Bent, Kiowa and Prowers counties. Damaging winds are expected and the affected areas could get large hail. We humans evaluate and judge everything. And everybody. We seek out those who are similar. They are one of us. Those who are different (in one or more ways) are one of them. Differences can be major or minor. Our family and society teach us who are us and who are them. We begin sorting out things when we start school. We feel close to those who are like us. Those who are different are not allowed in our group. We may try to avoid them. Yet we often let them know what is wrong with them. We pick on them. Laugh at them. Bully them. Ignore them. As a result, a portion of todays students feel depressed and isolated. Angry shooters seeking revenge were/are one of them. We created them. Insulted them. Made them feel desperate, with no future. Worthless. As a result, the shooter thinks, Ill show them (us). With a gun! Going to school should not be hazardous to your health (mental and physical). Is this the America we want? In the 1976 movie Network, an aging TV news anchor had a nervous breakdown. While on TV, he shouted, Im mad as hell and Im not going to take it anymore! His viewers agreed then. Many of us feel like that today. It becomes hazardous when we view them as enemies. We consider them dangerous, maybe evil. And vice versa. Words inflame differences. Give me liberty or give me death. Slave owners will burn in hell. Free Black males will rape every white woman. Support Hitler. MLK was a communist. Liberals arent real Americans. Extremism to protect liberty is acceptable. Trump won the election. Kill Mike Pence. Jan. 6 was peaceful. Christian nationalism. Execute Democrats! We/they believe: Joe Biden is incapable of serving as president. Democrats are socialist and will take away your wealth. And guns. And religion. Trump is an agent of Russia. The government will be run by fascists. GOP politicians will eliminate social programs like Social Security, Medicare, Obamacare, education and mental health. And democracy. Ignore the poor and help the rich. Bidens economic plan will break the banks and create a worldwide money crisis. The GOP Houses plan will throw the country in default, creating a worldwide money crisis. Woke folks will ruin business, make us feel guilty and send fellow citizens to reeducation camps. Anti-woke folks will ignore climate change, cover up our history and burn books. Catastrophe! The end of the world! They want us to be scared! So we accuse. Slander. Insult. Hate. Threaten. No common ground. A student once said, I have nothing in common with _____. As the teacher, I challenged his statement: Im (one of them). I love my mom, my country, nature, music. I never killed or raped anyone, etc. etc. You must be a horrible person! He (and the class) learned a lesson: We have many things in common with everyone. In fact, we have more in common than differences. And no two people can agree on everything. There will always be differences. We can come together and iron out differences, or add fuel to the fire. We have always been and will always be a melting pot. The ingredients werent always equal. Liberty and justice for all" is something we have been struggling with from the beginning. We are not there yet. Why be afraid? Any species that poisons its world and treats each other as a competitor/enemy cannot be considered intelligent. Easily access the latest Albany and Linn County news in an app that lets you select the topics that matter most to you. A Corvallis man with previous entanglements with the law has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for attempting to entice a minor online and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Thomas Anthony Lanier pleaded guilty to the charges in January, according to a U.S. Attorneys Office District of Oregon news release, and was sentenced on Tuesday, May 30. The news release said Lanier is 24, but court documents with his date of birth suggest he is 28. Oregons online court database shows Lanier has been convicted of multiple sex crimes in the past, including third-degree sodomy and contributing to the sexual delinquency of a minor. In 2021, he was indicted in Marion County Circuit Court on charges of second-degree encouraging sexual abuse, attempted rape and more. However, all charges were dismissed a few weeks ago. Lanier also has an open case in Benton County Circuit Court for failure to report as a sex offender. Years of crimes In November 2019, Lanier was charged in Sunnyside, Washington for second-degree kidnapping and domestic violence, the news release said. Lanier allegedly attempted to kidnap the 1-year-old child of a woman he met online. When the woman ran outside and yelled for help, Lanier allegedly wrapped his arm around her neck and threatened to kill her. Stay up to date on mid-Willamette Valley news, wherever you go Easily access the latest Albany and Linn County news in an app that lets you select the topics that matter most to you. Then, in June 2020, court documents say Lanier met a woman from Keizer online and pressured her to solicit babysitting jobs on Craigslist so he could have access to children. Lanier also allegedly expressed his desire to have sex with the womans 12-year-old cousin. The woman reported Lanier to law enforcement. The next month, the woman, in coordination with the Salem Police Department, gave Lanier an address of the house where she claimed her cousin lived. When Lanier arrived to the Salem house, police arrested him. An indictment About a year later, a federal grand jury in Portland indicted Lanier on charges of attempting to entice a minor online, accessing with intent to view child pornography, illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and committing a felony offense involving a minor as a registered sex offender. The case was investigated by the FBI with help from the Keizer and Salem police departments, according to the news release. Three Linn County nurses were disciplined by the Oregon State Board of Nursing in May. Disciplinary documents show Dylan Fore, a certified nursing assistant who lives in Sweet Home, voluntarily surrendered his practical nurse license and nursing assistant certificate. On or around March 24, the board learned that Fore had been diverting narcotics from his employer, according to disciplinary documents. An OSBN news release said Fore also failed to administer medications in a lawful manner. Stay up to date on mid-Willamette Valley news, wherever you go Easily access the latest Albany and Linn County news in an app that lets you select the topics that matter most to you. Another Sweet Home nurse disciplined in May was Erica McGuffin, who also voluntarily surrendered her practical nurse license. Disciplinary documents said the board received information in March that McGuffin was diverting medications while working. McGuffin also failed to administer medications in a lawful manner. Karen McCreary of Albany was also disciplined by the board. According to OSBN, McCreary failed to implement a plan of care for a patient and did not conform to the essential standards of acceptable nursing practice. The board reprimanded her registered nurse license. Details in the three discipline cases were sketchy. ELDORA A man wanted in connection with the Friday death of a woman in Eldora has been captured in Arizona and charged with first-degree murder. Nathan Cole Bahr, 28, of Iowa Falls, was arrested Monday by the Gilbert Police Department in Maricopa County, Arizona, following a weekend manhunt after authorities allege he shot and killed Desiree Dawn Folsom, 25, of Iowa Falls. Police Chief Nick Hassebrock said Bahr was believed to previously have been involved in a romantic relationship with Folsom. Court records show she had been granted a no contact order Thursday related to domestic abuse. The body was found at 5:45 a.m. Friday inside the residence at 1401 17th Ave. in Eldora. Bahr had been labeled as armed and dangerous in the departments public notice seeking help locating him. Hassebrock said a license plate reader and other intelligence contributed to the arrest. No other subjects are believed to have been involved in the alleged murder, and the public is not believed to be in any danger. Bahr had been driving a 2020 gray Toyota Camry with an Iowa blackout license plate that initially read as EMRGLL and later was changed to KHA681, said Hassebrock. He had no additional information on the arrest itself but did not believe it was made after a traffic stop. Authorities ask anyone with additional information to contact the Hardin County Sheriffs Office at (641) 939-8189 or another local law enforcement agency as the homicide investigation continues. Unintentional deaths are on the rise: Here's what that could mean for you Unintentional deaths are on the rise: Here's what that could mean for you How unintentional deaths are classified and understood Montana has the highest unintentional death rate in the country Mississippians and Alaskans are more likely to experience unusual unintentional deaths Unintentional deaths are preventable: Here's what you can do What unintentional deaths can mean for loved ones Quote: A state legislator argues that her state's ban on casino gambling is inconsistent and impractical, since other forms of gambling such as bingo and the state lottery are legal. She claims that instead of vainly attempting to enforce the ban, the legislature should simply legalize all gambling, and that to do so would also have the positive effect of reducing the crime rate. Which of the following, if true, most seriously weakens the legislators argument above If gambling is legalised, crime rate will go down. Option D Posted from my mobile device This is a weaken question. The correct answer choice would have some information that negates the following assumption by the legislator -This assumption probably considers that people are committing crime to be able to gamble.If a statement suggests that more people are likely to commit crime or more criminals are to visit the state if gambling were legalised, that would be our answer.Option D gets this bang on THE ANSWER IS E AND E ONLY. 1) ASSUMPTION NEGATION : 2) ASSUMPTION ADDITION :- Premise 1) Don't blame pilot for accidents. Premise 2) Investigate why error was made by analysing these areas :- airplane design (X), management (Y), and PILOT TRAINING PROGRAM (Z) Premise 3) ----HERE WE WILL ADD THE ANSWER OPTIONS A,B,C,D,E --ONE BY ONE----- Conclusion) Only after making changes in design, management and pilot's training we can ensure similar type of accidents does occur in future SO add option E in place of PREMISE 3 and see how the argument becomes fool proof, cogent and strong. Premise 1) Don't blame pilot for accidents. Premise 2) Investigate why error was made by analysing these areas :- airplane design (X), management (Y), and PILOT TRAINING PROGRAM. Premise 3) (E) Most pilots who make errors in flying will repeat their errors unless they are retrained. Conclusion) Only after making changes in X, Y and Pilot's training(Z) we can ensure that similar kind of accident does occur in future (Reverse answer. Pilot training is the most important factor) (Irrelevant to the issue) (Out of scope) (There is a possibility that investigators have already contributed to the prevention of accidents by filtering out the possible reasons for the accident. Investigators may have given a detailed report to Airline management explaining the cause of the accidents but the managment decided not to implement the recommendation from the investigators because it will require large amount of investment and decline airline's profit margin. So we don't know whether investigators are or not contributing. No information in the argument to validate this option) (yup correct answer :- Don't blame pilots for accidents. you don't gave them proper training. An inexperienced pilot will keep causing accidents unless you train him properly.) Posting an answer without an explanation is "GOD COMPLEX". The world doesn't need any more gods. Please explain you answers properly . FINAL GOODBYE :- 17th SEPTEMBER 2016. .. 16 March 2017 - I am back but for all purposes please consider me semi-retired. Signature Read More Very very good and easy question.Explaination :- Questions asks us what is the "pre-supposition. It means what ASSUMPTIONS were made while reaching the conclusion"There are 2 techniques to find the Assumption- First find the premise and conclusion of the argument. Then negate answer choices only by one. The answer choice which after negation makes the conclusion weak is the correct answer. THIS IS THE TECHNIQUE MOST PEOPLE USE TO FIND ASSUMPTIONAssumption is a premise that is not written or expressed in the argument. But assumption is an important premise to reach the conclusion. In this type of questions a strong unstated assumption is always present in the option choices that when inserted in the argument make it complete. So in this technique you add one of the OPTION from answer choices as a Premise just before the Conclusion. The answer choice that makes the argument complete is correct.NOW LETS GET TO THE BRASS TACKS (BRASS TACKS is an idiom that means "focus on the issue in hand"We will use ASSUMPTION ADDITION technique.First we will have to quickly identify and isolate the PREMISES and CONCLUSION of the argument.Instead of blaming an airline accident on pilot error, investigators should find out why the error was made by analyzing airplane design, airline management, and pilot-training programs. For only then can changes be made to ensure that the same type of error does not recur and cause another accident.Which of the following is a presupposition of the argument above?(A) Pilot error is not a contributing factor in most airline accidents.(B) Airline companies themselves should be the agents who investigate airline accidents.(C) Stricter government regulation of airline companies will make air travel significantly safer.(D) Investigators of airline accidents should contribute to the prevention of future accidents.(E) Most pilots who make errors in flying will repeat their errors unless they are retrained._________________ Expanding on the commonwealths decades-old slogan Virginia is for Lovers Pittsylvania County will showcase and display its own love of tourism with a special dedication ceremony Saturday. A new love sign will debut at 10 a.m. Saturday at the The Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex in Chatham. Its all part of the Virginia Tourism Corporations program known as LOVEwork designed to promote tourism destinations throughout the state, according to a news release. The latest addition is part of a LoveSign Trail throughout the county. Other signs are located in downtown Chatham, downtown Gretna and Wayside Park in Hurt. With abounding enthusiasm surrounding next years opening of a casino resort in Danville in addition to a temporary facility now in operation a new regional tourism brand is now in place: Visit SoSi. The new marketing piece ties in the affiliation with Southside Virginia with a new twist by playing off the sounds of so and see, Lisa Meriwether, tourism manager, explained at the unveiling earlier this month, just days before the temporary Danville Casino opened its doors. Tourism brings in about $14 million in tax revenue to the region each year, making it an economic engine itself. The Virginia Tourism Corporations LOVEwork Reimbursement Program provided $1,500 for the newest love sign for Pittsylvania County. Mary Smith spearheaded the love sign project, the release stated. Members of a working committee included Brenda Bowman, Alisa Davis, Lisa Shorter along with other volunteers with Chatham First, Chatham Rotary, Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex and The Homeplace Vineyard, according to a news release. The Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex is a tourism draw hosting agriculture-themed events throughout the year. At each love sign in the county, a QR code will be available in a nearby kiosk directing visitors to the Pittsylvania County website. In the coming days or weeks, a federal court could decide whether construction of the Mountain Valley Pipeline should remain on hold while it considers the latest of many lawsuits filed by opponents. Whatever the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals does, it could be undone by Congress. As part of a proposed agreement to suspend the national debt ceiling and limit government spending, the Fourth Circuit would lose its jurisdiction to hear any challenge of a government permit issued to Mountain Valley. That includes a recent case, filed by environmental groups in April, that questions an opinion by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which found that building the massive natural gas pipeline would not jeopardize endangered and threatened species in its path. On Sunday, details were released of a bipartisan bill that would raise the debt ceiling in order to avoid a government default. To the surprise of many, the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 also contains language that would expedite completion of Mountain Valley mandating approval of permits and largely removing judicial review. We really feel like thats a bad way to make public policy, in terms of separation of powers, said Peter Anderson, Virginia policy director for Appalachian Voices, one of the groups that is fighting the pipeline in court. Why are we picking winners and losers, when expert agencies are there for a reason? he asked. Why is Congress substituting its judgement for theirs? As a June 5 deadline approaches, after which the federal government will not be able to pay its bills unless the debt ceiling is raised, efforts are underway to remove the Mountain Valley provision from the bill. Rep. Jennifer McClellan, D-Virginia, announced Tuesday that she has submitted an amendment to the House Rules Committee that would strip from the 99-page bill four pages that deal with the pipeline, which she said has nothing to do with national spending. This provision is a free pass for the pipeline and sidesteps our nations environmental laws and judicial review processes, McClellan said in a statement that was supported by her five Democratic colleagues from Virginia. In the Senate, where the bill will go if it passes the House, Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia, said he has similar plans for an anti-pipeline amendment. Sen. Kaine is extremely disappointed by the provision of the bill to greenlight the controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline in Virginia, bypassing the normal judicial and administrative review process every other energy project has to go through, his office said in a statement. Although Virginias other senator, Democrat Mark Warner, is opposed to the Mountain Valley part of the bill, he does not support defaulting on our nations debt, a spokesperson in his office said. He plans to vote for the bill. Rep. Morgan Griffith, a Republican through whose 9th District the pipeline runs on its path through the New River and Roanoke valleys, said he was reading the legislation Tuesday. At first blush, I will likely vote no, but am currently taking a longer look at it, he said through a spokesperson. As for the Mountain Valley Pipeline, Im not sure how it relates to the debt ceiling. Since construction of the 303-mile pipeline began in Feb. 2018, it has faced strong opposition from Southwest Virginia residents and environmental groups, who say running a 42-inch diameter pipe along steep slopes and through streams and rivers will mar the areas scenic landscapes and contaminate its water. State regulators have cited the project more than 400 times with violating erosion and sedimentation control regulations. At least a dozen times, the Richmond-based Fourth Circuit has set aside approvals for the pipeline after they were challenged by opponents, who argued that government agencies failed to control problems that include muddy runoff from construction sites. That has frustrated Sen. Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, who favors a pipeline that starts in his state before crossing into Virginia on its way to connecting with an existing pipeline near Chatham. Manchin who supports permitting reforms for fossil fuel projects in general and Mountain Valley in particular was instrumental in having the provision attached to the current financial bill. Its just ridiculous, Manchin said of the delays encountered by Mountain Valley, which had planned to have the $6.6 billion project in service by late 2018. Were the only civilized nation that has this type of process thats just almost intended to stop things, versus making sure that we have reliable energy for our country, Manchin said Tuesday, speaking to reporters in a Zoom news conference. Manchin said legal battles have prevented Mountain Valley from completing construction and performing final restoration, which would include planting vegetation on the buried pipelines 125-foot wide right-of-way to control erosion. The debt ceiling bill would set a 21-day deadline for approval by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the pipeline to cross the remaining streams and wetlands along its route. That is the last major permit the project lacks, although others face lawsuits. Also included in the bill is language that would prohibit nearly all challenges of government permits for Mountain Valley. Any claim challenging the law itself would be heard by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, which is seen by some as being more accepting of the pipeline than the Fourth Circuit. Were not trying to skip any review process. Were not trying to eliminate that, Manchin said. What were trying to do is basically accelerate either a yea or a nay. Manchin says the pipeline, which Mountain Valley hopes to complete by years end, is needed to provide a more reliable supply of natural gas and to bolster the nations energy security. Weve been building pipelines through the mountains forever. Its not new. Its not rocket science. Theyve just got to do their job and do it right, Manchin said. But you cant have the court holding you up from doing things and then basically claiming they are in violation because the court wouldnt let them fix things. GREENSBORO He or maybe she is still a bit wobbly. But the pygmy hippo calf born May 24 at the Greensboro Science Center is a solid win toward preservation of the species. There are only about 100 pygmy hippos in AZA facilities and not many of them are breeding, said Michael Motsch, the centers lead keeper of pygmy hippos and cassowaries. The center is part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan Program, a nonprofit organization with a mission to help save species from extinction. It is estimated fewer than 2,500 adult pygmy hippos, which are native to West Africa, remain in the wild. A quick check of the calf and its mom, Holly, Tuesday morning indicated they are both healthy. Motsch said the babys health check included making the sure teeth are coming in properly, making sure the umbilical connection area is healthy, as well as listening to the heart and lungs and trying to get a look all over just to make sure theres no odd bumps and bruises. At a week old, the calf weighs about 14 pounds. In about five to six months, itll be about 120 pounds, so its going to grow really quick and really big, Motsch said. Depending on the gender, the calf will eventually weigh 520 to 630 pounds, he said. The baby needs to grow for another few days before its gender will be readily apparent. Everything is still kind of wrinkly and theres still the umbilical cord connection, so theres just a lot of bumps and folds that we have to deal with, Motsch said. As for the name, center officials have a pool of names they are considering. By next week we should have a name, he said. In keeping with what would naturally occur in the wild, the calf and its papa, Ralph, will not be housed together. If its a female, theres the risk of breeding when its old enough and if its a male, its competition, Motsch said. So mom will go back with Ralph in a couple years, but baby will not be with dad. The calf will be weaned in six to eight months. It is likely to leave the center in two to five years for another AZA facility, where it likely will be paired with another pygmy hippo for breeding. That pairing process includes analysis to ensure the most crossover genetic variability, Motsch said. Theyre going a couple of generations past figuring this stuff out, he said. If there are two equally good matches, he said, Holly and Ralphs offspring will likely go to the facility that is closest. Were not its forever home, Motsch said. Photos: Baby pygmy hippo at Greensboro Science Center Joyous Wednesday without rain. As soon as she heard the ask, Cheryl Wilson knew what her answer would be. Organizers of a campaign to raise public awareness about the deadly fentanyl epidemic contacted her to see if they might include her familys story on a billboard, and Wilson had no need to think it over. My immediate response was, Of course. Ill do anything I can to help, Wilson said. Jared Weicht is her oldest son; he died Feb. 17, 2020 in a long-running battle with substance abuse. He was 31. Wilson had spoken openly about her sons life and his death out of a belief that helping another family avoid what hers had suffered so acutely was worthwhile. But she also knew that doing so would come at a cost. There is a lot of emotional capital to invest in sharing Jared, she said. Between 2013 and August 2022, 13,376 North Carolinians died from using illicit fentanyl 523 in Forsyth County. With fentanyl, weve come to understand that its poisoning and not an overdose, Wilson said. It's poison. Drug dealers often make powdered fentanyl, a synthetic opioid similar to morphine, in illicit labs. They either sell it as is, put it in pills that resemble prescription painkillers or mix it in other powdered narcotics such as heroin and cocaine. It is cheaper and, according to the National Institutes on Health, 50-100 times more potent than morphine. Its highly addictive and deadly. So when the founders of the Fentanyl Victims Network of North Carolina and the Forgotten Victims of North Carolina approached Wilson about including Jared along with 18 other victims on two digital billboards in Forsyth County, she was all in. A lot of people may not realize the extent of the problem and Wilson wants to do her part to change that. The billboards one on Salem Parkway near Miller Street and a second farther east on Salem Parkway near Linville Road were unveiled Monday and will be displayed for the next month. Your nightly lanes closures WINSTON-SALEM Its not the White Album, but the N.C. Department of Transportation, through no fault of its own, sounds a lot like a broken record when announcing lane closures for bridge repairs. Basically, its the same stretch of road that needs bridge rehabilitation and preservation. So all together now: From 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. today and Thursday, two of three lanes on eastbound Interstate 40 between Hanes Mall Boulevard and Peters Creek Parkway will close; And from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Thursday into Friday, two of three lanes of eastbound I-40 between Peters Creek and U.S. 52 will be closed. That will in turn require the closing of ramps. Tonight thats the off-ramp from I-40 East to Peters Creek and Thursday, its the onramp from Peters Creek to I-40. Weather permitting, of course. Detours will be posted. Personally, I prefer closing lanes to crumbling bridges. But thats just me. American Jobs for Americas Youth Montana held its Summer Jobs Program Kick-off on May 24 at Helena College, with over 50 student participants, mentors and partners in attendance. The event celebrates the beginning of summer and offers an opportunity for students to meet their mentors over a meal. Summer Jobs Program participants are high school students and recent graduates who build work skills, explore careers, and strengthen the local workforce. The SJP has grown from its roots in Helena to serve 75 students this year, with new regional programs in Anaconda, Billings, Bozeman, Whitehall, and the Flathead Valley. Isabella Williamson, 18, of East Helena participated in the program the past two summers, working for the Helena Area Chamber of Commerce in 2021 and the Lewis and Clark County District Court in 2022. The best thing to me about the Helena Area Summer Jobs Program is all the opportunities to learn they give you," she said in a news release from American Jobs for Americas Youth Montana. "Not only do they provide online courses to complete before you work, but you also get to attend various workshops and request a mentor who specializes in a subject that interests you. American Jobs for Americas Youth Montana, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, created the Summer Jobs Program in 2019. By 2022 enrollment doubled, with the program expanding to six areas. Our partners make it happen, says Executive Director Gabrielle Eklund Rowley, who works with students, volunteers and agencies to grow the program. Its a very collaborative effort. The Summer Jobs Program matches high school students and recent grads with paid work experience, providing work skills training and connecting students with adult mentors. The work skills training and opportunities to grow employability skills are unmatched. This program is essential in moving the dial in the workforce arena and shows a huge benefit to our community and area businesses," says McKinley Winkle, vice president of the Helena Area Chamber of Commerce. Local partners include businesses, school districts, Helena Area Chamber of Commerce, Helena College, Reach Higher Montana, and STOKE. Funding for the program comes from the Gianforte Family Foundation and private foundations, sponsors, and individual donors. The program helps communities as well as the young employees, Eklund Rowley said. The program is designed to sustainably improve the lives of young workers. The job skills students learn serve them well after the program ends, benefiting them as individuals and strengthening their communities. Businesses also benefit. Opportunity Bank of Montana sees tremendous value in the Summer Jobs Program and the additional workforce pipelines it creates, said Tom Burkhart, recruitment and retention officer. "Weve matched with several fantastic students, one of whom has blossomed into a wonderful, long-term team member. Eklund Rowley said its gratifying to see the youth grow over the summer. They learn so much about themselves. They really learn about what brings them satisfaction in a work setting. They learn to manage time, problem solve, talk with employers and coworkers, and build skills that will transfer across their careers. Williamson adds, To future Helena Area Summer Jobs Program participants, just go for it. I know it can seem daunting, but it will be worth it. Kickoff events for students and mentors in the six regions are happening this week with students starting their SJP work positions in June. More information is available at https://www.americanjobs4youth.org/sjp or by contacting Gabrielle Eklund Rowley: gerowley@americanjobs4youth.org or 406-490-4954. Helena and Lewis and Clark County have a long, storied history of military service and honoring those who served. In 1943, the 1st Special Service Force shipped off to the Aleutian Islands. Along the way, the men learned of the sinking of the USS Helena, sunk by Japanese forces in the Battle of Kula Gulf earlier that year, and by collecting donations and self-imposed tax revenue from poker and dice games aboard the ships, they raised about $6,000 to help replace the light cruiser. Former Navy Reserve officer Bill Woon in telling that story during Tuesday's Memorial Day observance at the park said the Navy could not accept the money, and it was instead used in 1947 to build the monument to their unit that remains today. In 1949, the community of Helena came together to raise funds to build the larger monument to those soldiers who lost their lives defending democracy. "This entire area, what we like to call Veterans Mall, has a lot of history attached to it," Woon said. It was at that mall Tuesday afternoon, where the Lewis and Clark County Veterans Memorial Foundation continued the tradition of honoring those who have served and those who paid the ultimate price. Guest speaker Chief Warrant Officer Kenneth Rosenbaum, U.S. Army, retired, quoted from former President Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. The Battle of Gettysburg claimed the lives of more than 50,000 soldiers on both sides of the Civil War in just three days of conflict. "'It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced,'" Rosenbaum quoted from Lincoln's 1863 speech. "'It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us -- that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.'" Members of Lewis and Clark Veterans Council served as honor guard during the ceremony. The Pipes and Drums of the Black Devils also performed. "It is a pleasure to be here to honor the veterans who gave their all so that we can be free," American Legion Commander for the Department of Montana Lowell Long said during the ceremony. "And to be here with other veterans to recognize those veterans, it is truly an honor." Lt. Gov. Kristen Juras spoke at a separate event earlier Tuesday held at the Montana Veterans Affairs Division, State of Montana Cemetery at Fort Harrison. A Lewis and Clark County Sheriffs Office search and rescue team was recently called out to the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex to help a young man who had become ill while hiking with a group of friends. The call came in about 8 p.m. Thursday after someone in the group had activated a device on their cellphone, authorities said. That activation went to a national call center, which then contacted Lewis and Clark County dispatchers, officials said. One of the eight young males, whose ages range from 18 to their 20s, is from Helena and the others are from Great Falls. The Helena man, who is 23, had a medical condition and could not proceed into or out of the forest. Efforts by the group to reach Renshaw Lake were unsuccessful, said Sgt. Bill Pandis, who is the sheriffs liaison to the search and rescue team. Authorities were able to keep in contact with the group through a Garmin inReach that uses satellite communication. Part of the group went down trail farther and found a flat place to stay and pitched a tent. It was determined a land rescue and air operation could not be performed due to weather and nighttime conditions. Search and rescue officials decided they would wait until morning and send in a team on horseback and a team to hike in. The Back Country Horsemen of Montana took two horses and a mule in, officials said. Pandis said the team on horses found the campsite and were able to get the man on a horse. The rest of the group decided to walk out with the search and rescue team. The ailing young man was not taken to a hospital, officials said, adding his parents were out of state. He was left with friends. Pandis said this kind of rescue in which horses and hikers are used is rare. We havent had anything like this in quite a while, were reliant on helicopters, he said, adding it was the first time in the past few years authorities had to hike in. Pandis and Sheriff Leo Dutton said the group of young men often hike together and were well prepared for being outdoors. Everybody was super appreciative, Pandis said. OXON HILL, Maryland Khadijah Abdul-Rahman can now add "National Spelling Bee semifinalist" to her resume. The Maroa-Forsyth eighth grader advanced to the Scripps National Spelling Bee semifinals after correctly spelling the word "quaternary" in the fourth round and correctly answering a question on the vocabulary word "kindling" in the fifth round. Abdul-Rahman is one of 56 spellers advancing to the semifinals. Seventeen spellers were eliminated in round five. Forty-eight spellers were eliminated in round four. The middle schooler qualified for the National Spelling Bee after winning the Regional Spelling Bee at Richland Community College on March 11. On Tuesday, Abdul-Rahman told the Herald & Review she was looking forward to the remainder of the competition. Im excited," she said. "And then if I don't make it that far, it's still fun to be here and meet new people." The Scripps National Spelling Bee semifinals will begin starting at 1:30 p.m. and will air online via the Scripps website. Semifinals will re-air from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday on the ION channel. Viewers can visit spellingbee.com/watch fore more information on viewing the competition. Abdul-Rahman is speller number 58 and will be seventeenth in the lineup. Photos: 45th Annual Regional Spelling Bee QUINCY Jurors could start deliberations Wednesday in the Timothy Bliefnick murder trial after the prosecution rested its case Tuesday afternoon. Bliefnick's attorney Casey Schnack also said she will not present any evidence, though a final decision hasn't been made on whether he will testify. Judge Robert Adrian will inquire Wednesday morning if Bliefnick plans to testify. If he chooses not to, closing arguments will take place. Bliefnick, 40, a Decatur native, faces two counts of first-degree murder and one count of home invasion in connection with the Feb. 23 shooting death of his estranged wife, Rebecca Bliefnick. Most of Tuesday morning's testimony came from forensic scientists with the Illinois State Police. Vickie Reels, a forensic scientist with the Illinois State Police Crime Lab, testified that eight shell casings found at the crime scene were fired from the same gun as 27 shell casings found in Timothy Bliefnick's basement. A total of 54 shell casings were collected from the basement. "I determined the eight cartridge cases and 27 of those 54 cartridge cases were identified as being fired by the same single firearm," Reels said. She determined that a Ruger handgun recovered from Timothy Bliefnick's house did not fire the 9 mm bullets. She mentioned a CZ firearm had similar characteristics from the bullets fired. A CZ 75 that Rebecca Bliefnick had sought from Timothy Bliefnick in their divorce has been mentioned multiple times during testimony during the trial. Reels agreed during cross-examination that she could not determine the exact gun used to fire the bullets. Kelly Maciejewski, a forensic scientist who works in the biology and DNA section of the crime lab, testified that on DNA found under Rebecca Bliefnick's fingernails, it is three times more likely that it came from Timothy Bliefnick and their three boys. Ted Johnson, who she was seeing romantically, was excluded after that testing. She also testified that DNA found on plastic bag shards around the body was eight times more likely to be from Timothy Bliefnick. Maciejewski also testified that she was able to obtain DNA from the handlebar of the bike found a half-block from Timothy Bliefnick's Hampshire Street house and it did not match him. James Riggins, a forensic scientist specializing in trace chemical analysis, reviewed plastic pieces that were found around the body. Though it appeared the plastic fragments matched Aldi grocery bags similar to ones found in Bliefnick's home Riggins said his findings were inconclusive because he didn't have the bag that the pieces were torn from. Specializing in firearms, tool marks, tire tracks and footwear, forensic scientist Kathryn Doolin noted consistencies between the crowbar found in Timothy Bliefnick's basement and tool marks on the window, but reached an inconclusive conclusion because she couldn't recreate the exact circumstances for how it was created. Quincy Police Detective Nick Eddy testified during the afternoon. He presented a video that showed someone riding a bike in the early morning hours of Feb. 14, 21, 22 and 23, though he could not say who it was. Video was taken from the Quincy Public Schools bus barn at 20th and Hampshire, a residence in the 200 block of South 20th and the home of Taylor Heimann, who testified about someone walking across his driveway last week. Eddy testified that the path matched the course to Rebecca Bliefnick house's house on Kentucky Road. He noted the bike in question didn't have reflectors on its wheels, similar to the one recovered by police. During those early morning hours, Eddy noted that no calls were placed to Timothy Bliefnick's phone, his cellphone was locked, there was no internet activity on his laptop and there were breaks in data on his Whoop fitness. Eddy noted that it is unclear who was riding the bike in the video or if it was even the same person or bike. He also testified on cross-examination that the bus barn only had footage going back to Feb 13. Christine Mandel previously worked with Rebecca Bliefnick at QTown CrossFit for two years before moving to California in 2015, but she said they still messaged on Facebook, including a March 14, 2022, conversation. In it, Rebecca Bliefnick described herself as a "nervous Nelly" and said "I feel safe right now. I'm super nervous for when this ends. If he doesn't get his way, I feel he may literally lose his mind." She also told Mandel that she believed Timothy Bliefnick cared more about hurting her than anything else. Schnack continued to object to messages introduced in the case, and during cross-examination sparred with Mandel on the stand over whether she helped Rebecca Bliefnick. Mandel said she believed listening was the best thing to do at that point. After the jury was dismissed, Adrian denied a motion for a directed verdict from Schnack. An informal jury instructions conference also was held. 2023 mugshots from the Herald & Review Lourash Hirstein Phillip Gehrken Joseph A. Williams Jetrevius O. Jarrett Edwards King-Woods Wilson Derrickson Colby J. Park DECATUR Structural concerns have prompted Decatur School District officials to temporarily close the two Dennis Lab School campuses. Out of an abundance of caution, Decatur Public Schools is temporarily closing the two Dennis Lab School campuses while we further assess structural concerns with the two buildings. We continue to do our due diligence, as we take proactive steps to ensure the safety of students and staff at all DPS schools, a news release issued Wednesday said. The announcement comes a day after classes ended for the school year. Dennis' two campuses are the Mosaic campus, 1499 W. Main St., and the Kaleidoscope campus, 520 W. Wood St. District spokeswoman Denise Swarthout said the district had contacted a structural engineer in the spring to look at the buildings, both because the district already knew there were issues and because administrators and staff had voiced concerns, but Tuesday was the first opening in that engineer's schedule to examine the buildings. The district is now seeking a second opinion from another engineer, she said, and staff members have been asked to work from home until Monday, when further assessment is possible. School board President Bill Clevenger said Superintendent Rochelle Clark and district leadership are working on assessing the situation and little further information is available. We just have to wait for the results of testing and that kind of thing, and see what the issues are and what our remedies might be, Clevenger said. There's not a lot of information right now, and we want to make good strategic decisions for the health and welfare of our students and in the long term, for the good of the district. I think that's what we'll be looking at here for the next few weeks. He expects it to be a topic of board discussion, though maybe not in time for the next meeting on July 11 if the results of the tests are not yet available by then. In 2022, the board spent months discussing the need for a new campus for Dennis, one that would serve all students in one building, and pursued a plan to buy Lincoln Park from the Decatur Park District. That plan eventually fell through, and the board changed direction to plan a new building, originally designated for American Dreamer STEM Academy, on the site of the former Oak Grove School, 2160 W. Center St. Those plans have proceeded forward. Discussion of the need to replace Dennis began in late 2021 and continued throughout 2022 until late summer. Teachers and parents spoke at board meetings, listing various problems with the buildings and lack of space in general since seventh and eighth grades were added. One solution that was suggested was the former Woodrow Wilson Junior High, at Sunset and Oakland. The building had deteriorated over time and the board ultimately rejected it for that reason, though residents of the area said it would be cheaper to remodel and reuse the building than to build a new school. Macon County put the building up for auction due to delinquent property taxes and when it didn't sell, the city of Decatur purchased it. In January, the city and Decatur Public Schools came to an intergovernmental agreement that the city would demolish the building and sell it back to the school district for half the cost of the demolition. The school district has not announced what plans, if any, there are for use of the site. OXON HILL, Maryland Maroa-Forsyth eighth grader Khadijah Abdul-Rahman has advanced to the Scripps National Spelling Bee quarterfinals. The 14-year-old made it through three rounds of competition on Tuesday after successfully spelling the words yosenabe and tactile, and answering a vocabulary question. It feels really nice, Abdul-Rahman told the Herald & Review after her third round of spelling. I wasn't super nervous about like, being on stage. I was just more nervous about the words and spelling them right. And I also didn't want to be the first one out. The competition began with 231 spellers, with 139 surviving the first two rounds. For Abdul-Rahman, preparation for the national bee began immediately after she won the Regional Spelling Bee at Richland Community College on March 11. Each morning since then, shes been waking up at 5 a.m. to study for a couple hours before school. She memorized around 300 words every day. So far, all that studyings paying off. But she said the hard part comes next. Round one and two were the only rounds with studied words. So those were easy, Abdul-Rahman said. And then from that, from rounds three and four, they're just any words from the Merriam-Webster dictionary. So any words out of 500,000 words. Preparing for any of those 500,000 words can be tricky, and Abdul-Rahman said each speller could have an entirely different approach. Some focus on vocabulary and root words. Some go dictionary-diving, meaning they open up the dictionary to random words and learn what they can. Others, like Abdul-Rahman, focus on memorizing as many spelling words as possible. Each strategy requires a lot of focus. I had to remove all other distractions, Abdul-Rahman said. And then I felt like I couldn't do anything fun. But it's worth it. Abdul-Rahman is being supported at the Washington D.C. area competition by her mom, dad and three siblings. She said she also has aunts, uncles, cousins and friends watching her from home. On Wednesday morning she will compete in the quarter finals, running from 7 a.m. to noon. If she makes it through the quarter finals, she will also compete in the semifinals from 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday night. The 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee finals will air on Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. Abdul-Rahman said shes looking forward to the remainder of the competition. Im excited. And then if I don't make it that far, it's still fun to be here and meet new people, she said. The Scripps National Spelling Bee quarter finals are available to watch for free online on ION Plus. The semi finals and finals will air on the ION channel. Viewers can also visit spellingbee.com/watch to find out more information on viewing the competition. Photos: 45th Annual Regional Spelling Bee DAVENPORT, Iowa Days after Quanishia White-Berry was rescued from the wreckage that used to be their home, her wife, Lexus Berry, wont leave her side at the hospital. It took a team of first responders and surgeons hours to rescue Quanishia, who was trapped beneath the wreckage of the six-floor downtown Davenport building that partially collapsed on Sunday night. Rescuers on Monday amputated her left leg above the knee to free her. Just hours earlier on the day parts of their apartment building buckled to the ground Lexus and Quanishia were sitting in their fourth-floor apartment and noticed a crack above their bathroom doorway. Lexus snapped a picture, but they both knew something was wrong. Each grabbed one of their two cats to leave, Lexus said. Then everything fell on top of her. Lexus managed to get to the door, but Quanishia was gone. There was nothing left but where I was standing, Lexus told a reporter Sunday night. She watched that night as city officials talked with the media. She urged them from the crowd to continue looking for her wife in the rubble. In a phone interview Tuesday afternoon, Lexus said that the day of the collapse she refused to leave the perimeter of the downtown area except to change into a fresh pair of clothes friends brought for her. They took her to a nearby restaurant, but she couldnt eat. She had to stay close in case someone contacted her with updates on her wife. And they did. "It was a sense of relief," Lexus said, "because I had been in the dark for so long, but I said: 'I dont feel like shes gone. I feel like shes just trapped somewhere. I know shes just trapped. Shes going to hang on.'" She was taken to an access door, where rescuers had entered the building. A blur of doctors, engineers and first responders introduced themselves and gave her updates on Quanishia. They said her wife was conscious throughout the ordeal. And she asked, wondering if I was OK, Lexus said. The fact that shes trapped and asked if Im OK, thats her character. Then, like a game of telephone, first responders reported progress back to Lexus, she said. Every time they got any type of new activity, theyd come to tell me that: OK, were getting closer and closer. Were moving stuff, Lexus said. OK cant get her now; OK were almost there. But because she was pinned by debris, rescuers told Lexus theyd have to perform an on-site amputation. There was a lot of debris and things surrounding her and her legs were pinned down, Lexus said. They were able to get one leg out, but the other leg in order to get her out, they had to amputate it. They first allowed Lexus a chance to see her wife. They gave me literally just a minute, if not 40 seconds, she said. They gave me a hard hat, and there were about three or four of them that walked me into the building. She said the building was dark, with barely enough of a path to walk in. It was a scene that Ill never forget, Lexus said. Ill never forget that image of the way she was trapped. I just got to say, I love you, youre OK, you got this. Dont worry. She was escorted back out of the building before the amputation, but she saw medical personnel administer pain-numbing medication on site. Then she was in an ambulance on the way to the hospital. Lexus was close behind. Quanishia remained hospitalized and heavily sedated on Tuesday, Lexus said. A ventilator is helping her breathe and other tubes connect her body to machines and liquids. She said doctors were going day by day, still assessing whether Quanishia will need more surgeries or other treatments. On Tuesday, Lexus was feeling numb, she said, as she tried to process what happened and plan for the next days and months of recovery. I have to be strong for her. I cant think, Why did this happen? I cant go into depression, she said. I just have to be strong for both of us and move forward for both of us and just know that she is going to be OK she is going to heal and manifest that for her. I know how strong she is, because she was down there for over seven hours and she survived, so she can survive anything, Lexus said. Its just the feeling of knowing that shes hurt, hurts me. I hate to see her in pain. Its really hard to see her in the state that she is. Lexus gushed about her wife. We call her Peach because shes sweet. She puts other people before herself. She takes care of me. If Im sick or if I cant take care of myself, she literally nurses me back to health. To be able to do that for her is very important. Shes thinking about what their future lives will look like. Lexus is looking for a new apartment for them. A friend set up a GoFundMe to help with their expenses, as Quanishia wont be able to work and Lexus plans to care for her. She wants to look for a one-story or small two-story house where Quanishia can recover on one level, without stairs. Lexus expressed some frustration with the citys response to the collapse and their rescue efforts. By the city's count, crews rescued seven people in the first hour of the collapse, then later extracted Quanishia from the rubble. On Monday morning, officials said they had no evidence of people in the building and switched from rescue to recovery mode. But hours later, another woman was found and rescued from a fourth-story window. Now, city officials say at least five people are unaccounted for with two likely in the building. The people that are having press conferences, the mayor theyre not telling the full story, she said. Greater frustration lies with the apartment owner. Lexus said shes had no direct contact from the building owner or property manager. But Lexus said shes thankful for the medical team and doctors and nurses who are keeping her wife alive. I want people to know that life is the best gift that can be gifted to you, she said. Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Building collapse day 3 Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona recently confirmed that student loan repayments would begin again later in 2023, delivering what is likely to be a severe financial shock to borrowers who have not had to make payments for three years. This puts greater urgency on lawmakers to fix the flaws in the best idea for easing the transition: the "income-driven repayment" plan. The pause covered 43 million borrowers and $1.6 trillion in loans and came at a cost to the government of $5 billion per month, or around $200 billion in total. Though low- and moderate-income borrowers would benefit from the plan and its lower monthly payments, the problem is that most dont have an income-based loan or even know they exist as an option. A look at late-payment rates prior to the pandemic shows what a return to normal could look like and how much there is to lose if the restart is managed poorly. Any difficulties in the transition will hit some groups harder, such as Black, Hispanic and Native American borrowers, first-generation college students and those who attended private for-profit schools. So why income-based loans? Because they reduce a borrowers likelihood of delinquency by 22 percentage points, according to Daniel Herbst, a professor at the University of Arizona. Most borrowers have standard 10-year fixed loans with the same payment over time regardless of the level or changes in income. Income-based plans have grown in popularity with $500 billion of debt, or about one-fifth of student loans, but more borrowers would benefit from them. Borrowers must take several steps to enroll in one of the four income-based plans being offered by the government. Whatever option is chosen, a loan administrator determines the size of the monthly payments based on income and family size. If ones income is low enough, there might be no payment required. Borrowers recertify annually, and monthly payments change as income and family size change. After 20 to 25 years of payments, the remaining balance is forgiven. The responsibility for ensuring that each borrower has the best plan for them lies with the Department of Education and the private loan servicers, who deal directly with borrowers. Borrowers are generally unfamiliar with the process and now would be an excellent time to run an awareness campaign. Even so, income-driven repayment plans have weaknesses that should be addressed via policy and clarified to borrowers. Annual recertification increases the time burdens on borrowers and staff who administer the plans. Errors can -- and do -- occur. Other programs with a review of income, such as food stamps and Medicaid, experience high rates of administrative issues at re-certification, often due to borrowers not reporting their income. Making the certification process simpler for borrowers would encourage them to choose income-based repayment and maintain participation in the plan. Another critical weakness is that an income-based payment plan may trade short-term relief with long-term costs. The balance due on the loan can increase if the monthly payment is less than the interest costs. The length of repayment is at least twice for income-based loans than for standard student loans. The Biden administration proposed regulations for student loans that would, if implemented, ensure no ones balances grew larger on income-based repayment plans, among other reforms. Second, the administration must disentangle an income-driven repayment from broader student loan forgiveness a controversial policy even among Democrats and one with an uncertain fate. The White House appears to have viewed student loan forgiveness as a key solution to transition smoothly back to loan payments. But if the Supreme Court strikes down loan forgiveness, which is possible, then what? The legislation proposed by House Republicans to raise the debt ceiling included a ban on student loan forgiveness. Income-based loans have an element of forgiveness after 20 or 25 years. Thats different from student loan forgiveness, and it is essential to keep them separate. Otherwise, if the two are tied together, there is a risk that both will be lost. Third, servicers, not the federal government, are the frontline in managing student loan repayment. They are a small set of private companies that collect payments for the government. And their profit incentives are sometimes misaligned with the borrowers needs. SoFi Bank, one of the servicers, sued the federal government over the ongoing payment pause. They were losing revenues and profits. Servicers need incentives to help borrowers find the best repayment plan. It is doubtful servicers would change their ways; it requires government oversight and financial incentives. Every available tool needs to be deployed to provide borrowers with clear information and tools to enroll in income-derived repayment and other programs designed to assist struggling borrowers, said Sarah Turner, a professor at the University of Virginia. That sums it up pretty well. New Braunfels, TX (78130) Today Cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 82F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.. Tonight Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. ABINGDON, Va. A large crowd turned out at Veterans Memorial Park Monday for the towns annual Memorial Day ceremony. On a cool, foggy Southwest Virginia morning, several hundred people of all ages gathered as a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. Bagpipers and Revolutionary War-era re-enactors led off the solemn service. Lt. Gen. Marshall Bradley Webb, who recently retired after nearly four decades including holding several high-level U.S. Air Force roles then delivered the keynote speech. During his impressive military career, he flew more than 100 combat hours in Afghanistan, Bosnia and Iraq, and also was intricately involved in the operation to kill Osama bin Laden. In his remarks, Webb focused on personal examples of fallen soldiers and warned attendees not to forget them and therefore cause their second death to occur. Our principles and ideals couldnt have been established, if not for thousands of men and women of action and courage, with love for their country, and that paid the ultimate sacrifice their life, their liberty, their pursuit of happiness, in order that we may be free, Webb said. Ladies and gentlemen, we are obliged to ensure that they never suffer this second death. Webb has a connection to Abingdon through Revolutionary War soldier John Bradley, his seventh great-grandfather. Bradley was buried two centuries ago in Sinking Spring Cemetery, less than a mile from where Webb spoke on Monday. Air Force Col. John Bradley III (Ret.), Webbs uncle, was master of ceremonies. Virginia state Sen. Todd Pillion was among the many political and military dignitaries who traveled to Abingdon to pay respects. Memorial Day officially began in 1868 when Civil War general and future President James Garfield addressed families of the fallen at Arlington National Cemetery in Northern Virginia. BRISTOL, Tenn. Twin City nonprofit agency Bristols Promise is expanding its reach and changing its name to become Appalachian Promise Alliance. Bristols Promise has operated for nearly 25 years, bringing the Bristol community together to address issues facing children, youth and families, according to a written statement. We wanted to keep the promise as part of our new name to reflect our continued promise to provide the five developmental assets that children, youth and families need to thrive, said Executive Director Melissa Roberts. Connection to caring, responsible adults, safe spaces, effective education, healthy starts and opportunities to serve are the five promises we have embraced from our beginning in 1999 and we will continue to uphold them as we move forward. Originally aligned with The Five Promises of Americas Promise, Appalachian Promise Alliance has expanded to serve the upper eight counties of Northeast Tennessee and five counties in Southwest Virginia through programs that convene and amplify the voices of residents in those areas, according to the statement. From the beginning, we have worked with partners on all of our projects. We used a coalition model of engagement and are now embracing a collective impact model to create deep changes to support our families and youth, said founding Board President Margaret Feierabend. Current programming works to alleviate issues around workforce sustainability, equity and inclusion, parenting and poverty. Programming also provides resilience-building education and activities including car seat and passenger safety programs. For more information, visit www.AppalachianPromiseAlliance.org or call 423-444-0622. CLINTWOOD, VA A new $169,152 grant from the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority was awarded to the Dickenson County Industrial Development Authority (IDA). The grant, announced Tuesday, is to be used to finance the provision of low earth orbit space-based broadband to unserved and/or underserved children in Dickenson County, according to a written statement. A portion of the funding, $124,800 comes from the VCEDA Education and Telehealth Access Fund and the remaining amount, $44,352 comes from the VCEDA Dickenson County account. The county also plans to use $22,848 in federal ARPA funds to extend access to high-speed Internet which will serve an additional 48 households, including 74 school-aged children. The grant will be used to take care of the expenses of hardware, wiring and two-year subscriptions for each household served according to the Dickenson County Industrial Development Authority application, said VCEDA Executive Director/General Counsel Jonathan Belcher. In the end, the grant serves to enhance educational opportunities for students, expand health treatment options and to enhance workforce education and remote worker opportunities. VCEDA was appropriated $500,000 in the Virginia state budget for FY2023 and $500,000 in FY2024 for initiatives intended to expand education and telehealth access. VCEDA also received $500,000 for that purpose in FY 2022. In FY2022, an application from the Appalachian Council for Innovation (ACI) was approved by the VCEDA Board for a project to provide low earth orbit Starlink satellite Internet service to unserved and/or underserved children in the VCEDA footprint. That project was done by ACI in association with various local school districts, resulting in a grand total of 724 children being provided access to Starlink, including connections made possible by leveraged funding from the participating localities of Dickenson, Russell, Tazewell and Wise Counties, according to a report from ACI. Discussions concerning the funding being received by VCEDA in FY2023 resulted in several of the county industrial development authorities expressing a desire to apply for the funds for Starlink projects in their respective jurisdictions. At the September 15, 2022, VCEDA board meeting, the VCEDA Board approved an application from the Wise County IDA for up to $232,500 in FY2023 Education and Telehealth Access funds, in order to provide Starlink service to an additional 94 residences in Wise County. The Dickenson County IDA submitted an application, which was also approved at the time it was submitted, for up to $144,000 in FY2023 Education and Telehealth Access funds to provide Starlink service to an additional 60 households in Dickenson County with 97 school-aged children. The most recent request approved builds upon prior successes by providing the service to another 48 households with 74 children. Previously, the county noted in its applications there were a total of 290 households and 323 students that either did not have Internet access, or that did not have Internet access capable of supporting streaming for online learning. Over the course of the past several months, Dickenson County has been able to provide a total of 156 households access to high-speed Internet through the partnership with VCEDA and the Space-Based Broadband Grant program, said Dana Cronkhite, Dickenson County economic development director. We are thankful for this continued collaboration and commitment to our community, as access to high-speed Internet is one of the components for our future success and economic development. I am thrilled to have worked with my fellow board members and VCEDA on this significant project that will provide dozens of new high speed internet connections to Dickenson County families, said Dickenson County Board of Supervisors Chairman Josh Evans. Our staff and board have worked tirelessly to expand access to high speed Internet. We are grateful to the VCEDA board and Mr. Belcher for working with us so closely. Virginia will eliminate degree requirements and preferences for nearly 90% of classified jobs - salaried positions subject to the personnel act - in line with a growing private sector trend that looks at experience and other training as well as degrees when hiring. The change by the Richmond regions largest employer will take effect July 1 for the roughly 20,000 openings the state advertises over the course of a year. This key reform will expand opportunities for qualified applicants who are ready to serve Virginians, said Gov. Glenn Youngkin. This landmark change in hiring practices for our state workforce will improve hiring processes, expand possibilities and career paths for job seekers and enhance our ability to deliver quality services, he said. The reform will give equal consideration to applicants who have an equivalent combination and level of training, knowledge, skills, certifications, and experience as college graduates, said Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater. Secretary of Administration Margaret Lyn McDermid, who oversees the states human resource management department, said Virginia state government has one of the broadest ranges of jobs in the state. Our employees design, build, manage, and sustain public services across hundreds of lines of business and giving equal consideration to all job applicants, including those who have experience solving real-world problems is a smart business practice, she said. McDermid was the first woman accepted at Newport News Shipbuildings Apprentice School and joined state government after working for several years as an information technology executive at the Federal Reserve System and a Richmond Fortune 500 company. She said figuring out how an applicant's experience, training and credentials fit a post, and how they might match or better what a college graduate can offer, starts with a lot of thinking about what each of the many different kinds of work in state government really entails. A lot of that thinking was what state human resources executives did when thinking about remote working during and after the pandemic, she said. "We want to get the best people for the jobs we have," she said. "In a tight labor market, competing for good people, if you have the skills and want to do public service, we want to be sure you're on the list to be interviewed," she said. Youngkin says improving Virginias workforce development networks is a top priority. Earlier this spring, he said legislation streamlining the licensing process for 85 occupations for people who have licenses from other states and who want to work here was one of the most important bills this years General Assembly passed. Other states have made similar moves. Maryland eliminated its four-year college degree requirement for many of its state jobs last year, in what state officials said was the first such move among the states. Of the more than 38,000 people who work for the state, Marylands Department of Budget and Management estimated that more than half did work that people whose experience, training or community college education could substitute for a four-year college degree. Byron Auguste, CEO and co-founder of Opportunity@Work, which worked with Maryland to identify people with skills acquired through apprenticeships and certification programs, said at the time that there are more than 1 million people in the state who did not have four-year degrees but who have the skills to work in IT, administration and customer service. Harvard Business School professor of management practice Joseph Fuller and two co-authors of a 2022 Harvard Business Review article reported that during the tight employment market between 2017 and 2019, employers reduced degree requirements for 46% of middle-skill positions and 31% of high-skill positions. Among the jobs most affected were those in IT and managerial occupations, which were hard to fill during that period, they reported. Companies still have widely different views, however. For the job of software quality-assurance engineer, only 26% of Accentures postings and 29% of IBMs for the position contained a degree requirement, while all of Oracles postings did, as did 94% of Intels and 90% of Apple's, Fuller and his co-authors found. One reason employers retain degree requirements could be the view that college graduates possess more-refined soft, skills, such as setting priorities or communicating with others, but Fuller and his co-authors said companies that eliminated degree requirements frequently added more-detailed soft-skills requirements in their postings. If we want to increase equity in the labor market, one important way to do it is by removing barriers to well-paying jobs and theres no question that in recent years one of those barriers has been inflated degree requirements, the authors concluded. About 57,000 of the roughly 100,000 people who work for the state directly or as contractors are considered classified employees. A U.S. expatriate living in Thailand has been arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for threats made against North Carolina's two U.S. senators and staff members in 2021. FBI special agents from the agency's Charlotte and Atlanta offices arrested Eric Charles Welton on May 25 as he re-entered the U.S. at HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta, according to a news release Tuesday from U.S. Attorney Michael Easley of the N.C. Eastern District. Although the news release did not mention the U.S. senator and staff members who were threatened, the FBI complaint against Welton listed that it involved Sen. Thom Tillis and retired Sen. Richard Burr, both Republicans. Our elected representatives and the public servants who staff their offices must be free to do the peoples work without threats of violence, Easley said. Violent threats against our democratically elected representatives do not just erode our civil discourse they can undermine our democracy. "We will hold accountable anyone who threatens violence targeting our bedrock institutions. Welton, 51, faces a criminal complaint for threats he made to the senators in September 2021. He faces another criminal complaint for threats against U.S. Marines and others working the U.S. Consulate in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in October and November 2022. Welton is charged with one count of threatening a federal official. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in prison. Additional charges may follow, according to Easley's office. Neither Tillis nor Burr could be immediately reached for comment Wednesday about the threats and arrest. According to an FBI interview with Welton's father, who lives in Iowa, his son told him he has received at least 600 unsolicited political emails, some originating from the N.C. Republican Party. His father said Welton considered himself as a socialist and "was set off by ideas he did not agree with." Welton made "multiple harassing and intimidating calls due to a large number of unsolicited political emails he claimed he was receiving" from the Republican Party. He also made phone calls to the White House switchboard, according to the FBI complaint. According to the complaint filed by FBI special agent Corey Zachman, Welton made at least seven calls to Burr's and Tillis' offices in North Carolina. Some calls were answered by a staff member and some were left as voicemail. All calls were recorded. "The language of the calls was similar in tone and rhetoric, with the caller threatening to harm and/or murder Sen. Burr and Sen. Tillis and members of their respective staff, among other things," according to Zachman. Zachman said that the Republican Party emails "motivated his anger and hostility toward Sen. Burr and Sen. Tillis." He demanded that his email address be removed from distribution lists. Welton was alleged to have engaged in a 13-minute phone call with a staff member at Tillis' Raleigh office on Sept. 29, 2021. He said he was living in a war zone created by President Trump. Among his threats was threatening to "fly back over there, walk into 310 New Bern Avenue and teach you what 'Stand your ground' means, put a bullet through each of your heads. "You are making me wanna (sic) come back there and mow your whole f----- state down." Welton also was recorded as saying to the staffer that "I'm getting a little bit of the cancers upon me, you know, so I don't give a s--- anymore. The idea of a suicide vest means I don't have to go through chemotherapy." The complaint also states that Welton threatened to cut off the hands of the individual that had decided to send him the emails. Welton's threats against U.S. Marines and others working at the U.S. Consulate in Thailand took place in October and November. In one voicemail, Welton allegedly stated that he was going to kill a bunch of Marines due to anger over an immigration issue. In February, Burr joined the global law firm of DLA Piper, working with the Regulatory and Government Affairs practice group as a principal policy adviser. The Republican retired from Congress in January after serving five terms in the U.S. House and three terms in the U.S. Senate. Under congressional rules, Burr cannot lobby his former Senate colleagues for two years. Burr maintained a lower profile during much of his time in Congress even as he took leadership roles in key Senate public health, finance and foreign intelligence committees. Burr will join the firm with a team of policy advisers that will supplement its legal, policy, economic, medical and technological attorneys and advisers in the health care and life sciences field. Tillis is now serving his second term in the U.S. Senate. Maiden resident Kelli Genaro said she has always wanted to open a candy store because it is a place that is consistently filled with smiles. With her husbands family restaurant selling last April, Genaro said it was her turn to open a business. When a building at 18 West Main St. in Maiden went up for sale, Genaro jumped on the opportunity to fulfill her dream in a downtown location. 18 Main Sweets & Things hosted its grand opening last week, finally accomplishing Genaros long-time aspiration and bringing candy store smiles to downtown Maiden. Rows of barrels, filled with both old-fashioned sweets like Tootsie Rolls and popular brands of candy such as Smarties and Jolly Ranchers, line the original wood floors of her new store. Containers of self-serve candies are also available to customers for $5 per pound, featuring licorice, sour candies and chocolate-covered espresso beans Genaros personal favorite. The store also sells an array of glass-bottled drinks, North Carolina-themed decor and toys. Everybodys told me theres nothing else like it, and so far, everybody has commented on how much the kids love it, she said. In August 2022, Genaro and her husband purchased the building, but renovating took longer than expected due to numerous setbacks. The challenges included tearing down walls and a lengthy cleanup. The hardwood flooring was the only thing inside the store that remained the same. We touched every single part of this building, she said. Then, after almost a year of remodeling, Genaros candy and convenience store was finally ready for business. On opening day, Genaro said she loved to see families come in together, pick out candy and have fun. As a mother of three, she said creating an environment where families can spend time together is important to her. 18 Main Sweets & Things partners with Pies & Sides in Mount Holly to sell homemade savory pies with prices ranging from $9.99 for individual portions, $24.99 for a family size and $28.99 for a deep-dish pie. In addition to Pies & Sides, the candy store has a selection of homemade pure maple syrup from Smith Family Farms in New York for $14.99 per pint. Genaro said she is hoping to incorporate more local products in the future. The candy store is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed on Sundays. HICKORY On Saturday, June 10, at 10 a.m., members of the Catawba Lager & Ale Sampling Society (CLASS) will board a large bus equipped with a bathroom parked at Advantage Beer & Wine Supplies, U.S. 70 west, and head uphill. The day will be spent visiting breweries, mostly in the Asheville-west region of North Carolina. The group's first stop will be at Hillman Beer in Old Fort, which along with its superb beers features an appetizing array of sandwiches and entrees for early lunch. After lunch and a visit to nearby Whaley Farm Brewery, the group's professional, non-drinking bus driver will take participants up the mountain for stops at Whistle Hops Brewing and Turgua Brewing (both in Fairview); Oskar Blues Brewery (Brevard); Ecusta Brewing (Pisgah Forest) and Sweeten Creek Brewing (Asheville) with food truck provisions available at many. The bus is scheduled to arrive back at Advantage at 10 p.m., but it could be a little later. Tickets are available at classbeer.org. More information is available at wrayb@bellsouth.net and me@tompfaff.com . That's when Sherman and his fellow Connecticut delegate Oliver Ellsworth stepped into the fray. As it happens, the delegates from Connecticut were particularly well suited to strike a compromise between the warring factions. In terms of population, Hall says, Connecticut ranked exactly in the middle. There were six states larger than Connecticut and six states that were smaller. Advertisement Sherman and Ellsworth proposed a compromise. Let there be two chambers in Congress, just as Madison wanted with the Virginia Plan. But under Sherman and Ellsworth's compromise plan, each chamber would allocate its seats differently. In the House, voting would be proportional, with more populous states getting more seats. In the Senate, voting would be equal, with each state both big and small getting the same number of representatives, exactly two seats. "It was a quintessential compromise," says Hall. "Everyone got something they wanted, but they also had to swallow something they didn't like." The Connecticut Compromise was sent to the committee to hash out the details, and on July 16, 1787, it was put to a vote. The convention adopted the compromise proposed by a very slim margin of five to four. (Why only nine votes? Of the 13 states, Rhode Island chose not to attend the Constitutional Convention. For this vote, New York and New Hampshire were absent, and the Massachusetts delegates were split, leaving just nine states to make this momentous decision.) When the Connecticut Compromise was reached, it proved to the delegates at the Constitutional Convention that even the deepest divides could be bridged. Other compromises were then struck about critical issues such as how to apportion House seats and electoral votes in states where slavery was legal. Sherman also played a role in drafting the notorious "three-fifths compromise" that was necessary to secure the Constitution's ratification by southern states. Two or three days ago, Russia struck the headquarters of Ukrainian military intelligence, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Russian state television on Tuesday. Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov previously claimed that Tuesdays Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow was a response by the Kiev regime to Russias effective strikes on one of its decision-making centers on Sunday. Igor Konasenkov, the spokesman of the Russian Ministry of Defense, presented the military report on Tuesday, saying that group strikes were carried out with long-range, air-launched precision weapons against decision-making centers in Ukraine, where terrorist acts to be carried out on Russian territory were planned under the direction of Western special services. The war will never end after this Several buildings in Moscow suffered minor damage as a result of a drone attack, Mayor Sergej Sobyanin announced on Tuesday morning. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, the terrorist attack launched by Kiev against the Russian capital was carried out by eight aircraft-like drones. Three of these were transported to the ground with radio-electronic devices, and five were shot down with a Pancir-SZ type air defense missile system in Moscow County. Andrey Vorobyov, the governor of the Moscow region, also reported that the air defense shot down several drones heading in the direction of the capital. The Russian Investigative Committee (SZK) has initiated proceedings in the case of the attack. The Russian presidential spokesman, Peskov, said that the attack has repeatedly confirmed that the continuation of the special operation and the achievement of its stated goals are justified. Victims of the Ukrainian retaliation Mayor Szobjanyin wrote that the emergency services are working on the scene and that no serious injuries have occurred. According to Moscow authorities, two people sought medical attention, but no one needed hospital treatment. One residential building was hit on Lenin Avenue and Profsoyuznaya Street. The residents of both houses were evacuated while the buildings were searched. A temporary traffic restriction was also introduced in the vicinity of the locations, which was later lifted. The windows on the 25th floor of a tower block in New Moskva were also broken, presumably for similar reasons. It was reported in the Russian state media, among others on the Vestyi FM news radio and the Rosszija 1 TV channel, that in addition to the eight large airplane-like drones mentioned by the Ministry of Defense, smaller devices also took part in the attack. According to the authorities, all four civil airports around Moscow are operating in normal mode. Ann Street United Methodist Church 335 Ann St., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Randy L. Wall. In person and Facebook Live worship at 11 a.m. Guest speaker, Ed Shuffler, Church Lay Leader. Sermon: Our Foundation. Scripture: Exodus 35:1-21. Bethpage United Methodist Church 109 Fellowship Ave. at West C St., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Gary McDonald. Christian Education at 9 a.m. Worship at 10 a.m. Bogers Chapel United Methodist Church 1775 Flowes Store Road E., Concord. Pastor: Eric Shaver. Sunday school at 9 a.m. Worship in-person or on Facebook at 10 a.m. Graduation Sunday recognizing advancement in grades and graduates. Sermon: Trinity Sunday. Opening Reading: Psalm 8. Scripture: I Peter 1:1-10. Calvary Lutheran Church 950 Bradley St., Concord. 704-782-6923. Pastor: Rev. Debbie Frye. In-person worship at 8:30 a.m. (casual worship) and 11 a.m. (traditional worship with childrens church). Coffee/cookie social from 9:30-11 a.m. Adult Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. Childrens area and nursery available at all times. All services livestreamed and available anytime on the Calvary Lutheran Concord YouTube channel easy access through our website at http://www.clconcord.org or church app Calvary Lutheran Church NC. All are welcome. Sermon Topic: Festival of the Holy Trinity How Majestic is Your Name. Center United Methodist Church 1119 Union St. S., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Tony Allen. Sunday school for In Betweens and young adults at 9 a.m. Worship at 10 a.m. Nursery is provided during the worship service. Website is www.centerumcconcord.org. Join us for our service. Sermon: Working with God. Scripture: Genesis 1:1-2, 4; Psalm 8. Crossroads Church 220 George W. Liles Parkway, Concord. Pastor: Lowell McNaney. Live worship streamed on Facebook, Crossroads Concord Church app or mycrossroads.co website at 9:30 a.m. and 11:11 a.m. Crown Pointe Baptist Church 703 Tennessee St., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Doug Crawley. Sunday school at 9 a.m. Worship at 10 a.m. in the sanctuary, or view online at our Facebook page. Series: Return of the King. Sermon: Getting Caught Up. Scripture: I Thessalonians 4:13-18; I Corinthians 15:50-58; Revelation 20:4-5 ES. Eastside Missionary Baptist Church 199 Elgin Drive, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Stephen Burrow. In person services: Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. Worship services at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Recorded worship services and other information at EastsideMissionaryBaptist.org. You will be welcomed. Practice social distancing. Epworth United Methodist Church 1030 Burrage Road NE, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Bill Roberts. Sunday school at 9 a.m., followed by worship at 10 a.m. We welcome all to join us in person, or you may livestream or watch the recorded service at our website at www.epworthnc.com. Trinity Sunday. Sermon: The Name of God. Scripture: Matthew 28:16-20. Forest Hill United Methodist Church 265 Union St. N., Concord. Senior pastor: Rev. Mandy Jones. Associate pastor: Rev. Wes Judy. We are open for in-person worship. Contemporary worship at 9 a.m. Sunday school/small groups at 10 a.m. Traditional worship at 11 a.m. Both the contemporary and the traditional worship services will also be livestreamed at foresthillumc.org or facebook.com/foresthillumc. Harmony United Methodist Church 101 White St. NW, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Thad Brown. Sunday school is at 10 a.m. followed by our worship service in the sanctuary at 11 a.m. Sermon: Jesus Taught the Hard Lessons Too. Scripture: I Peter 4:12-16, John 6:32-33, John 6:34-40, John 6:52, John 6:53-58, John 6:60-65, I Peter 4:17-19. We welcome you to join us in worship. We will also celebrate with the service of Holy Communion. Service is live on Facebook.com/HarmonyUnitedMethodistChurch. We welcome all who are unable to join us in person to worship with us online. For more information, you can call the pastor at 704-791-2883 or the church at 704-782-8237. Jackson Park United Methodist Church 715 Mable Ave., Kannapolis. Pastor: Laurie Knoespel. Adult Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. Worship at 10:30 a.m. Nursery will be provided during worship service. Kirkwood Presbyterian Church 900 Klondale Ave., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Dennis B. Craft. Worship at 11 a.m. in church sanctuary on Sundays. No mask restrictions. McGill Baptist Church 5300 Poplar Tent Road, Concord, in-person services. Pastor: Rev. Steve Ayers. If you have not taken the COVID-19 vaccine, wear a mask. McGill will stream a worship service Sunday at 10 a.m. on www.facebook.com/mcgillbaptistchurch/ and on YouTube. The services will be live and also available on recording afterward. Trinity Sunday. Mrs. Lindsay Karbach will deliver the sermon on Graduate Sunday. Sermon: Good Fruit. Scripture: Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15; Galatians 5:22-26; Luke 6:43-45. Midway United Methodist Church 108 Bethpage Road, Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Craig Allen. Come join us on Sunday morning at 9 a.m. for Sunday school and 10:30 a.m. for worship. Our service is also livestreamed on the web at midwayunitedmethodistchurch.org or facebook.com/midwayUMC. Trinity Sunday, Communion Sunday. Theme: Gods greatness inspires and comforts us. Message: Transitions: God is Great And That Matters. First Reading: Psalm 8. Second Reading: Matthew 28:16-20. Suggested Hymns: UMH 92, For the Beauty of the Earth; UMH 140, Great Is Thy Faithfulness. Mt. Mitchell United Methodist Church 6001 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Kannapolis. Pastor: Joel Locklear. Sunday school at 9:45 a.m. (adult and children classes.) Worship at 11 a.m. in person or on Facebook. Multiply Church Concord 150 Warren C. Coleman Blvd. N., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Douglas Witherup. 8:30 a.m. service held at 280 Concord Parkway S., Suite 15, Concord. Services at 150 Warren C. Coleman Blvd. N., are worship and sermon at 9:30 a.m. and worship and sermon at 11:15 a.m. New Gilead Reformed Church, ECO 2400 Old Salisbury-Concord Road. 9:40 a.m. is adult Bible study. 10 a.m. is Sunday school. 11 a.m. is worship in the sanctuary, also live on Facebook. Oak Grove Baptist Church 200 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg. Pastor: Rev. Franklin D. Watkins. 10 a.m. In-person worship service and Facebook Live and YouTube Live. Sermon: The Life of the Rich and Favored of God. Scripture: John 1:12-18. Second Presbyterian Church 1578 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis. Pastor Sue Black, minister. Rev. Aaron Price, assistant pastor. Sunday school at 10:15 a.m. Worship at 11 a.m. in sanctuary and on Facebook Live. Communion will be served. Sermon: The Ten Commandments. Scripture: Exodus 19:3-6; 20:1-17. St. Johns Reformed Church 901 N. Main St., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Chris King. Sunday school for all ages at 9:30 a.m. Worship service at 10:30 a.m. Website www.ourstjohns.org. Email/Phone- ourstjohns@gmail.com / 704-932-3656. Sermon: What Does it Mean to be a Member of the Church? Scripture: I Corinthians 12. The annual Breakfast for the Arts for another rousing success for the Cabarrus Arts Council and the arts community. The annual fundraising kick-off features arts of all times, including live performances. To make a contribution to the Arts Council visit: https://cabarrusartscouncil.org/support/how-to-donate Did you miss the breakfast or would like to see one of the performance again? The program and performances were recorded and you can watch: https://fb.watch/kRZa-D9hGW/ This Week! (May 29 June 4) Art Lab today, May 31, 10-11:30 a.m. Join us for Art Lab! Well tour The Galleries current exhibition, then create a special art project designed with the exhibitions uniqueness in mind. Cost: $5 per student; Ages: 6-16; Instructor: Deb Reid, Volunteer & Educator; Adult supervision required; Limited to 15 students per class; Registration is required. Visit https://bit.ly/3azT4Yg to register for the latest Art Lab. Next Week! (June 5 June 11) Orquesta Sabrosalsa Friday, June 9, 7 p.m. Hot enough to burn up the stage, Orquesta Sabrosalsa brings the sizzle of Latin music and dance to The Kettle Room at Cabarrus Brewing Company, co-presented with El Puente Hispano. Ticketed Event, $15; All Ages; Located at 325 McGill Ave, The Kettle Room. For more information or to buy tickets, visit https://cabarrusartscouncil.org/sobrosalsa-orquesta. Family Day Saturday, June 10, 1-4 p.m. Join us for craft stations perfect for preschool/school age children and their families. Family Days are free and open to the public. English and Spanish speaking volunteers will help with crafts. Performance by Dawn Anthony in Davis Theatre at 1:30 p.m. (no advance tickets required). Cabarrus Arts Council, 65 Union St., South, downtown Concord. www.cabarrusartscouncil.org/arts-education/family-days Embroidery 101 Tuesday, June 6, 4-5 p.m. Have you ever been curious about hand embroidery? Come learn a few basic stitches and create your own unique piece of artwork. Beginners welcome! All supplies provided. In 101 we will cover straight stitch, backstitch, running stitch and satin stitch. Registration required and opens two weeks before the program occurs. Ages 13+; Free Registration required, 201 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg Library. For more information, visit https://cabarrus-cep.bc.sirsidynix.net/event/embroidery-101-har/. Embroidery 102 Friday, June 9, 4-5 p.m. Have you ever been curious about hand embroidery? Come learn a few basic stitches and create your own unique piece of artwork. Beginners welcome! All supplies provided. In 102 we will cover long and short stitch, French knots, stem stitch and split stitch. Please bring your project from 101 with you. Registration required and opens two weeks before the program occurs. Ages 13+; Free; Registration required, 201 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg Library. For more information, visit https://cabarrus-cep.bc.sirsidynix.net/event/embroidery-101-har/. Gelli Painting Demo Sunday, June 11, 2 p.m. Beth will lead us through a demonstration showing us tools and techniques to create cards, art journals and more. She will share the fun of using various mark-making tools you may have around the house or purchased stencils to create one-of-a-kind looks. Those who make collages or art journals will find this technique just what they were looking for that completely unique look. All Ages; Open to the Public; Free; No Registration; 223 Crowell Drive NW, ClearWater Arts Center & Studios. For more information, visit http://www.cabarrusartguild.org/newsevents.html. Upcoming! Painting with Palette Knife Using Acrylic Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Using a palette knife when painting creates many very interesting textures and marks that together create a unique creation. Learn how to use the many different types of palette knives and how each makes different shapes and textures to create both a landscape and florals. You will get to paint two pieces, which will teach you how to use your palette knives in different ways. Registration Required; $60 CAG Members, $70 Nonmembers; Materials Are Not Provided; 223 Crowell Drive, NW, Concord; Clearwater Arts Center & Studios. For More Information and Registration, send an email to triciad226@gmail.com or phone/text 540-845-4519. Art Walk on Union Saturday, June 24, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Art Walk on Union is an all-day arts festival for artists and makers to sell their handmade artwork. The day features live music, food trucks, local brews & wines, plus participation from local galleries, shops and restaurants throughout downtown Concord. Sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company; AWoU Partner: the City of Concord. Cabarrus Arts Council, 65 Union St., South, downtown Concord. More details for the public and for artists interested in having a booth at https://bit.ly/artwalkonunion. Art Lab Wednesday, June 28, 10-11:30 a.m. Join us for Art Lab! Well tour The Galleries current exhibition, then create a special art project designed with the exhibitions uniqueness in mind. Cost: $5 per student; Ages: 6-16; Instructor: Deb Reid, Volunteer & Educator; Adult supervision required; Limited to 15 students per class; Registration is required. Visit https://bit.ly/3azT4Yg to register for the latest Art Lab. Ongoing After School and Adult Art Classes in drawing, painting, pottery and sculpture. After school classes from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and adult classes from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday, one day per week for six weeks. For more information, call 704-786-8570. North Carolina Music Hall of Fame The North Carolina Music Hall of Fame Museum is a safe, fun, and touch-free visit for your friends & family! The Museum is open to the public Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m., closed noon to 1 p.m. for lunch. Reserve your visit at Make A Reservation North Carolina Music Hall Of Fame; 600 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis. Open Art Day Every Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Bring your lunch and drink, bring a project you are working on and your supplies. Or bring work youd like to share and discuss. This is a working, weekly meeting, each Tuesday, to work with and share with artists and like-minded people who appreciate creativity. ClearWater Arts Center & Studios (223 Crowell Drive, NW, Concord) enter through the double glass doors facing Kerr Street, called the Greenway Gallery). For more information: About Us (cabarrusartguild.org). STATESVILLE A Concord man is wanted in a bank robbery that occurred in Statesville on Tuesday, May 30, according to law enforcement officials. The Statesville Police Department has identified 46-year-old Kelvin Wayne Simmons as a suspect in the case. Arrest warrants have been issued for Simmons, Statesville police said in a news release. Simmons is also wanted in connection to several bank robberies that happened in recent days in surrounding areas, Statesville police said. Shortly before 9:30 a.m., the Statesville police received an alarm from the First Horizon Bank at 1829 E. Broad St. in Statesville. Shortly after receiving the alarm, the department was informed that the bank had been robbed, Statesville police said. Statesville police said the suspect, identified as Simmons, walked into the bank with a lunch box. He handed a note to the teller stating that he had a gun and demanded money, Statesville police said. After receiving the money, the suspect fled the bank in a 2013 Hyundai Sante Fe with the license plate number TMR-8978, Statesville police said. Anyone that has information regarding the bank robbery or the whereabouts of Simmons is asked to call the Statesville Police Department at 704-878-3406. Simmons is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. SALISBURY Rowan-Cabarrus Community College and Wingate University have entered into a bilateral articulation agreement that offers students who earn an associate degree at Rowan-Cabarrus guaranteed transfer admission to Wingate to complete their bachelors degree for no more than $2,500 per year in tuition. The agreement, called Gateway to Wingate, was signed by leaders from both schools during a recent meeting of the Rowan-Cabarrus board of trustees and is effective immediately. Representing Wingate were Provost Dr. Jeff Frederick and Associate Provost Dr. Travis Teague. Representing Rowan-Cabarrus were President Dr. Carol S. Spalding, Vice President of Academic Programs Dr. Michael Quillen, and Executive Director of Transfer and University Partnerships Jenn Gardner Selby. Gateway to Wingate offers Rowan-Cabarrus students a seamless transfer process, with free application to Wingate, high-quality academic advising, and guaranteed financial support. Students who successfully complete their associate degree requirements at Rowan-Cabarrus with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher and meet eligibility requirements can apply at Wingate free of charge. Students can begin to receive university advising support as soon as their first semester at Rowan-Cabarrus. Interested students can contact Rowan-Cabarrus Executive Director of Transfer and University Partnership Jenn Gardner Selby to get connected with the Gateway to Wingate program. Students will be able to apply to Wingate for free and, once accepted, will be able to register alongside their Wingate peers, typically as juniors. Ensuring that a Rowan-Cabarrus graduate can transfer and be able to register with other juniors is a tremendous service, Selby said. They do not have to worry about registering after everyone else, which sometimes can lead to full classes and wait lists. Gateway to Wingate students will pay no more than $2,500 per year in tuition and no more than $10,214 for room and board per year. We are thrilled to partner with Wingate to open the door for our students to attend this excellent private university, Spalding said. Thanks to Wingates visionary leadership and generous transfer agreement, we continue to meet students where they are and help them reach their goals. The two institutions plan to continue their partnership to develop a Wingate University Doctor of Pharmacy program articulation agreement for Rowan-Cabarrus students. We are intentional about creating access for talented students, and we look forward to welcoming many talented Rowan-Cabarrus students to Wingate, said Provost Dr. Jeff Frederick. For more information about the Gateway to Wingate articulation agreement, contact Jenn Gardner Selby at jenn.selby@rccc.edu or 704-216-3820. After several years of construction, the 250,000-square-foot behemoth that is the new Cabarrus County Courthouse was publicly unveiled Wednesday morning in downtown Concord during a ribbon-cutting ceremony that brought out hundreds of people, including key movers and shakers within the community. The courthouse represents our growth as a county, said Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners Chair Steve Morris. It represents an amazing collaboration among a large group of people, but perhaps most importantly, it represents a meaningful access to justice. This is the peoples house of justice, Morris added. The commissioners officially approved the five-year renovation/expansion in 2019. Silling Architects designed the facility and Messer Construction served as the project manager. A virtual groundbreaking was held on Aug. 6, 2020, and officials celebrated the final beam raising with a two-day topping off celebration in July of 2021, according to a county press release. Court proceedings are scheduled to begin June 19 in the new building. Jason Harris, senior project executive with Messer, estimated his construction team put in more than half a million hours to complete the facility. Theres an incredible amount of effort thats gone in to this, Harris said, noting his staff worked a lot of odd hours and created unique strategies to stay safe amidst the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure the new courthouse became a reality. This is the countys fifth courthouse. The first Cabarrus County court sessions were held in the home of Robert Russell in 1793. The new courthouse has been needed because, as Cabarrus Countys population has increased in recent decades, so have justice demands. Use of the courthouse increased 131% between 1986-87 (27,506 court filings) and 2016-17 (63,567), according to data from the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). As a complement to the new building, a public plaza has been constructed on the former Means Avenue. The plaza will connect Union and Church streets, creating access to downtown Concord. Superior Court Judge Marty McGee told the crowd that the courthouse was designed and built not just for today, but to serve this community for decades. The four-story facility features 12 courtrooms, jury assembly and selection areas, attorney/client and attorney/attorney meeting spaces, multiple security queuing aisles and other amenities. McGee said he is especially proud of the jury assembly room, noting it is a manifestation of the respect due to our jurors for the important role they play in our judicial system. Several longtime lawyers, who have worked in both the three-story, 70,000-square-foot red brick Courthouse, which opened in 1975, and its predecessor, what is now the Historic Cabarrus Courthouse, were recognized and honored during the ceremony. The new facility, the crown jewelry of our legal community, provides us as lawyers with an opportunity to seek justice in an efficient, modern and resourceful way, said Caleb Newman, president of the Cabarrus County Bar Association. Cabarrus County District Attorney Ashlie Shanley discussed the importance of having ample safe space for victims and witnesses of crimes to wait before they testify, saying with the new building, those needs have been met. Shanley recalled a powerful story several decades ago of an 11-year-old girl who was the victim of horrific crimes perpetuated by her father. As the trial was about to begin, the young girl told Shanley, then a special victims prosecutor, details about the abuse she experienced. When asked by her counselor why the young girl did not disclose those details to her, the girl looked at Shanley and said: Because she can do something about it. We went to trial and we did something about it, Shanley said. And from that point on, the members of my office have been doing something about crimes, from DWI to first-degree homicide. The county and its residents have invested in far more than just new courtrooms, jury space and meetings rooms, Shanley said. The citizens of Cabarrus County have invested in justice and that divided will pay off in years to come. With the new courthouse completed, the existing courthouse facing Union Street is next in line for renovations. Several of the people in attendance toured the facility once the ceremony concluded. These structures matter, said North Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul Newby. Because they are saying to your community, you can rely on the justice that will be administered in these buildings. The 10th annual Blumenthal Performing Arts High School Musical Theater Awards culminated Sunday, May 21, at a gala award celebration where winners in 15 categories were announced and nominees for Best Actor, Best Actress, and Wells Fargo Best Musical performed live on stage at the Belk Theater. The Blumey Awards were presented by Wells Fargo. North Lincoln High School won the Tier 1 Wells Fargo Best Musical Award for their production of Anastasia. Central Academy of Technology and Arts won the Tier 2 Wells Fargo Best Musical Award for their production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Katie Ruttenberg from Central Academy of Technology and Arts won Best Actress for her portrayal of Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar. Lance Toppin from Charlotte Country Day School won Best Actor for his portrayal of Nick Bottom in Something Rotten. Blumenthal CEO Tom Gabbard said, This year we celebrated 10 amazing years of the Blumey Awards. All of the students, teachers and families should feel proud of their hard work and achievements. The Blumey Awards is definitely one of the best nights in Charlotte each year! Award-winning TV news anchor and reporter, Brigida Mack, emceed the black-tie event. Among the award presenters and special guests were Nick de la Canal, WFAE; Thomas Laub two-time Blumey Awards Best Actor nominee and Broadway producer; Ashani Smith, Assistant Stage Manager for the national Broadway tour of Jagged Little Pill and former Blumey Awards Student Critic; Nicholas Rodriguez, Broadway Dreams; Broadways Company; Kate McCracken, 2021 and 2022 Blumey Awards Best Actress winner; Jared Garcia, 2022 Blumey Awards Best Actor winner; and Michelle Lee, Head of Branch Banking, Wells Fargo. 2023 Blumey Award winners Wells Fargo Best Musical Tier 1 (Musical production budget of under $10,000) North Lincoln High School Anastasia Wells Fargo Best Musical Tier 2 (Musical production budget of $10,000 and greater) Central Academy of Technology and Arts Jesus Christ Superstar Best Actress Central Academy of Technology and Arts Katie Ruttenberg as Mary Magdalene Jesus Christ Superstar Best Actor Charlotte Country Day School Lance Toppin as Nick Bottom Something Rotten Best Supporting Actress Central Academy of Technology and Arts Natalie Hough as Pontius Pilate Jesus Christ Superstar Best Supporting Actor Weddington High School Josh Moraja as Wickersham/Schmitz/Yertle Seussical Best Featured Performer Central Academy of Technology and Arts Lana Patel as King Herod Jesus Christ Superstar Best Overall Direction Central Academy of Technology and Arts Jesus Christ Superstar Best Ensemble/Chorus Central Academy of Technology and Arts Jesus Christ Superstar Best Choreography Execution Central Academy of Technology and Arts Jesus Christ Superstar Best Student Orchestra Central Academy of Technology and Arts Jesus Christ Superstar Best Student Costume Designer Central Academy of Technology and Arts Mallory Caballero Jesus Christ Superstar Best Student Set Designer Central Academy of Technology and Arts Hannah Cook Jesus Christ Superstar Best Student Stage Manager Central Academy of Technology and Arts Margo Smith Jesus Christ Superstar Best Student Critic West Cabarrus High School Aminah Imran Blumey scholarships Along with The Blumey Awards themselves, three students were awarded college scholarships. The Mary Doctor Fine Arts Scholarship annually benefits two graduating high school seniors within the Charlotte region who are preparing to pursue a degree in the arts. Scholarships are typically $10,000 and are annually renewable during a students four-year undergraduate program. This year, the Mary Doctor scholarship committee selected Laura Grace Dhillon from Rock Hill High School and Melody Saxton from Mallard Creek High School. Laura Grace has been accepted into the BFA program at NYUs Tisch School of the Arts and Melody will be attending Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), pursuing an undergraduate degree in Film and Television, both starting this fall semester. The Gordon Hay Scholarship Committee selected Eli Dills from Gaston Day School as the 2022 scholarship recipient. Each year, a deserving high school senior or college freshman or sophomore is selected to receive this unique $5,000 scholarship. The award is not for tuition, class fees, or living expenses, but for special learning opportunities related to the recipients career interest in a nonperformance discipline within the performing arts (e.g. lighting and sound design, set design, costume design, stage management, etc.). Eli is currently in the School of Design & Production focusing on scenic design at University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) with a goal of working professionally in technical theater after graduation. This years Gordon Hay scholarship application deadline is June 1. High school seniors as well as college freshmen and sophomores are eligible to apply. Information can be found at blumenthalarts.org/college-scholarships. The gala celebration was a highlight of the competition, which started in January when local schools began presenting their annual musical theater productions. Each schools musical was viewed and evaluated by a panel of three judges, who awarded points according to detailed guidelines. About the Blumey Awards The Blumey Awards is produced by Blumenthal Performing Arts and is presented by Wells Fargo. The Doctor Family Foundation, The Leon Levine Foundation, Sync Storage Solutions, and Page Power Systems provide additional support. Charlotte joins more than 40 other cities, including Pittsburgh, Houston, and Atlanta, in hosting annual high school musical theater awards programs. Wells Fargo was the inaugural corporate underwriter for this performing arts program in 2012, said Rodrick Banks, Senior Community Relations Consultant for Wells Fargo. The Blumeys are all about showcasing the amazing talent of students in our region. Its a Glee meets the Tonys at the intersection of Fame kind of evening. We are thrilled to be part of the tenth anniversary! Like the Tony Awards, The Blumey Awards Ceremony features a performance by each of the six nominated schools in the best musical category, a medley of performances by the six nominees for Best Actor and for Best Actress, and an opening and closing number that features two students from each of the 47 participating schools. New York-based composer and Grammy nominated orchestrator David Dabbon returned as music director and orchestrator. He has served as the music director since the inaugural Blumey Awards ceremony in 2012. New York-based dancer and filmmaker Maxx Reed (Broadways Spiderman: Turn off the Dark; Beyonces Who Run the World (Girls) music video) choreographed the event. The schools that competed this year included: A.L. Brown High School, Ardrey Kell High School, Bandys High School, Cannon School, Carmel Christian School, Central Academy of Technology and Arts, Central Cabarrus High School, Charlotte Christian School, Charlotte Country Day School, Charlotte Latin School, Christ the King Catholic High School, Concord Academy, Cox Mill High School, Cuthbertson High School, David W. Butler High School, Davidson Day School, East Lincoln High School, East Mecklenburg High School, Fort Mill High School, Gaston Christian School, Hickory Ridge High School, Hopewell High School, Independence High School, Kings Mountain High School, Lake Norman High School, Lincolnton High School, Mooresville High School, Mountain Island Charter School, North Gaston High School, North Lincoln High School, North Mecklenburg High School, Northwest Cabarrus High School, Northwest School of the Arts, Northwestern High School, Piedmont Community Charter School, Porter Ridge High School, Providence Day School, Providence High School, Shelby High School, South Iredell High School, South Mecklenburg High School, South Pointe High School, Stuart W. Cramer High School, Weddington High School, West Cabarrus High School, Westminster Catawba Christian School, and William A. Hough High School. For more information, go to BlumenthalArts.org/BlumeyAwards include_once "/home/jwreview/public_html/$theme/includes/sidebar.php"; ?> Justice Neil M. Gorsuch, May 18, 2023 In response to President Richard Nixon's unlawful use of the FBI and the CIA to spy on his domestic political opponents in the early 1970s, Congress enacted the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. It limits all domestic surveillance not for law enforcement purposes to the procedures set forth in the act. Thus, if federal agents suspect you are a drug dealer and have probable cause of crime to present to a judge, the judge may sign a search warrant enabling the feds to listen to your conversations and monitor your text messages and emails. That's ordinary law enforcement, and that's pursuant to the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution. But if the feds don't know who you are, but know that you live in a community that has folks who think differently than they do about national security, they can go to the FISA Court and present probable cause not of crime but of a likelihood of someone communicating with foreign persons and that court, which grants 99.96% of all requested search warrants, will issue the same search warrant authorizing the same level of government scrutiny as if the feds were looking for evidence of a crime. This is all consistent with FISA but, because it directly violates the Fourth Amendment, it is profoundly unconstitutional. When the feds have told a federal Judge what their probable cause is, what they are looking for, why they believe they will find it and who they think is engaged in criminal activities, they are entitled to a warrant. As the amendment requires that all search warrants specifically describe the place to be searched and the person or thing to be seized, the feds know that they need to demonstrate a level of knowledge and specificity probable cause of crime to the judge from whom they are seeking a warrant. In the case of FISA, the feds do not know what or whom they are looking for. One infamous FISA search warrant permitted the feds to capture all telephone calls transmitted on all fiber optic cables used by Verizon, which at the time had about 115 million customers. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. Just click here. The FISA warrants are lawful, but profoundly unconstitutional, as there is no probable cause of crime, nor does the warrant specifically describe the place to be searched or the person or thing to be seized. The FISA warrant issued for all customers of Verizon is a general warrant search where you wish and seize what you find. General warrants were directly outlawed by the Fourth Amendment. Shortly after the tragedy of 9/11, in order to divert scrutiny from his own sleepy incompetence, President George W. Bush sought an amendment to FISA that would enable the feds to engage in warrantless telephone, text messaging and email surveillance upon foreign persons. Even though the Fourth Amendment protects all people good people, bad people, Americans, foreigners, people the government hates, people the government fears Bush persuaded a compliant Congress that there was much to fear from foreign persons. It was an emergency, he said, and time for the Constitution to bend before it breaks. Congress, afraid to do nothing, gave Bush these unconstitutional powers to spy on foreigners. Congress enacted Section 702 of FISA, and it expires in six months. Section 702 directly contradicts the core language of the Fourth Amendment. On its face, it permits the feds to conduct warrantless surveillance on foreign persons who are either physically or digitally present in the United States and all with whom they communicate American or foreign who are located here. Thus, for example, if you call or text or email a bookseller in London from your home in New York or your cousin in Paris calls or texts or emails you at your home in Texas, the feds can capture all those communications without a search warrant. And then the feds can capture the future calls you make and texts and emails you send. And then they can capture all the communications of the persons you reached and all the persons they reached. As this extends on and on to the sixth degree, the numbers grow exponentially to hundreds of millions. When the feds engage in all this capturing, they can access data only with respect to foreign persons. So, if a janitor in the Russian embassy is really a Russian spy trying to flip an American and the feds hear this, they can summarily ship the so-called janitor back to Russia. But if the American is also engaged in bank fraud, the feds need a search warrant to access the 702 database that contains that evidence. Last week, a judge of the FISA Court revealed that the FBI routinely accesses the 702 database without search warrants. The feds did this to 19,000 donors to a congressional candidate, to the folks caught up in the Jan. 6 events at the Capitol, to a member of Congress, and to those participating in and observing Black Lives Matter activities on the West Coast a few summers ago. And then this FISA Court judge heedless to the Constitution and fearful of God-only-knows-what permitted the feds to retain what they unlawfully and unconstitutionally stole. They accessed the Section 702 database by computer hacking the same crimes for which the same feds prosecute dozens of persons annually. Here we go again. Does the government work for us, or do we work for the government? What employee gets away with spying on his employers? What emergency will the government concoct next? (COMMENT, PLEASE, BELOW) Andrew P. Napolitano, a former judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, was the senior judicial analyst at Fox News Channel. Judge Napolitano has written seven books on the U.S. Constitution. The latest in a series of federal regulatory penalties against fired Wells Fargo & Co. executive Carrie Tolstedt features a $3 million fine from the Securities and Exchange Commission. Tolstedt, 63, played a lead role in the banks fraudulent customer account scandal that erupted publicly in September 2016. The SEC said in a Tuesday news release that the penalty represented a settlement with Tolstedt involving charges brought in 2020 for her role in allegedly misleading investors about the success of Wells Fargos Community Bank division. Tolstedt also agreed to pay disgorgement of an additional $1.46 million, as well as prejudgment interest of $447,874. Companies do not act on their own. Where the facts warrant it, we will hold senior executives accountable for conduct that violates the securities laws, Monique Winkler, regional director of the SECs San Francisco office, said in a statement. The SEC said that while Tolstedt did not admit or deny the complaint allegations, she agreed to a final judgment permanently enjoining her from violating, or aiding and abetting violations of, the antifraud and other provisions of the federal securities laws. The SEC imposed a permanent officer-and-director bar against Tolstedt involving the financial services sector. John Stumpf, the banks retired former chairman and chief executive, reached a settlement with the SEC on similar allegations in which he paid a $2.5 million fine in November 2020. The bank has been fined $500 million by the SEC. The series of fines involving the former executives and the bank are to be distributed to investors harmed by their actions. The SECs complaint accused Tolstedt during the mid-2014 to mid-2106 timeframe of publicly described and endorsed Wells Fargos cross-sell metric as a means of measuring Wells Fargos financial success despite the fact that this metric was inflated by accounts and services that were unused, unneeded or unauthorized. Some of those comments were made during Wells Fargo investor conferences in 2014 and 2016. The SEC said Tolstedt knew the cross-sell metric did not accurately track accounts or products that customers needed or used, since she was aware of misconduct at the Community Bank that led to bankers pushing products on customers that they did not need or want, including the unauthorized opening of accounts. The SEC also said Tolstedt signed misleading sub-certifications as to the accuracy of Wells Fargos public disclosures when she knew or was reckless in not knowing that statements in those disclosures regarding Wells Fargos cross-sell metric were materially false and misleading. In March, Tolstedt paid a $17.5 million fine ordered by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. The regulator issued a prohibition order against Tolstedt. Also in March, Tolstedt became the first former or fired Wells Fargo sentenced to federal prison over the events. Tolstedt pleaded guilty to one count of obstruction of a bank examination, the U.S. Justice Department said. The plea agreement carries a 16-month federal prison sentence. The statutory maximum sentence for obstruction of a bank examination is five years. Background Tolstedt served about nine years as Wells Fargos head of the Community Bank, which operated the banks consumer and small business retail banking business. Tolstedt was retroactively fired with cause by Wells Fargo shortly after the scandal erupted in September 2016. Wells Fargo has admitted that from 2002 to 2016, excessive sales goals led Community Bank employees to open millions of accounts and other financial products that were unauthorized or fraudulent. In the process, Wells Fargo collected millions of dollars in fees and interest to which it was not entitled, harmed customers credit ratings, and unlawfully misused customers sensitive personal information. Examples of fraudulent accounts included: using existing customers identities without their consent to open accounts; forging customer signatures to open accounts without authorization; creating PINs to activate unauthorized debit cards; and moving money from millions of customer accounts to unauthorized accounts. Other examples included: opening credit cards and bill pay products without authorization; altering customers contact information to prevent customers from learning of unauthorized accounts and to prevent Wells Fargo employees from reaching customers to conduct customer satisfaction surveys; and encouraging customers to open accounts they neither wanted nor needed. Wells Fargo acknowledged in 2017 the opening and issuing of at least 3.53 million unauthorized checking and savings accounts, debit cards and credit cards between 2009 and October 2016. Although the bulk of the fraudulent accounts were established in California and Arizona, the bank told the Charlotte Observer it could not rule out that 38,722 unauthorized customer accounts were established in North Carolina and 23,327 in South Carolina. According to the plea agreement, Tolstedt acknowledged that she knew of those fraudulent practices in 2004, including that about 5,300 retail employees had been fired over those tactics. Yet, internal investigations within the Community Bank flagged only a small portion of the potentially problematic activity for investigation, according to Justice officials. Toyota North America has upped its investment this time by $2.1 billion Wednesday to $5.9 billion in its North Carolina electric-vehicle battery plant. The planned manufacturing plant in Liberty has become the largest single economic-development project commitment in North Carolina history even though the first battery wont be available until 2025. The Toyota pledge exceeds the planned $5 billion Wolfspeed semiconductor manufacturing plant in Siler City. Toyotas significant investment in our state, now nearly $6 billion, is terrific news and more evidence that North Carolina is a leader in the clean energy economy, Gov. Roy Cooper said in a statement. Toyota believes in our world-class workforce to power its future success, and I appreciate this enormous commitment here. Wednesdays commitment more than quadruples Toyotas initial investment of $1.29 billion, 1,750-job, which was announced in December 2021 for the Greensboro-Randolph County megasite. The investment was boosted in August to $3.8 billion and 2,100 jobs. Toyota has been made eligible for up to $271.4 million in state incentives, while the Randolph County government is providing $167.3 million in local incentives. Production is expected to begin in 2025 at what will be 2 million square feet of space spread over three buildings. Two 500,000-square-foot buildings are dedicated to hybrid electric vehicle battery production, while a 1-million-square-foot building will be focused on electric vehicle battery production. There will be initially six battery production lines four for hybrid electric vehicles and two for battery electric vehicles. The $2.1 billion expansion will feature two additional production buildings of an undetermined square footage size. Toyota spokeswoman Emily Wilemon-Holland said there isnt a direct employment component with the latest infrastructure expansion, but additional hiring is expected. Toyota also announced plans to make a new electric SUV at its Kentucky plant, also starting in 2025. The manufacturer said the SUVs, the first produced in the U.S., will be powered by batteries from the Liberty plant. Holland said that while the two production decisions were made independent of each other, we always expected that we would plan ahead for additional battery production as North Carolina becomes the production hub for North America. We want to always provide a portfolio of options for customers. Some drivers arent ready for an EV, but we are seeing the trend moving in that direction and were acting as a result. State Senate leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, said the second Toyota expansion confirms our status as a manufacturing powerhouse. This expansion further cements our thriving partnership, and it wouldnt be possible without the reforms the General Assembly implemented to transform North Carolina into a jobs-friendly state. Ted Ogawa, president and chief executive of Toyota Motor North America, said the Kentucky plant and North Carolina expansion shows the manufacturers commitment to reducing carbon emissions as much as possible and as soon as possible. To achieve this goal, customers must have access to a portfolio of options that meet their needs now and in the future. It is exciting to see our largest U.S. plant, Toyota Kentucky, and our newest plant, Toyota North Carolina, drive us into the future together with BEV and battery production for our expanding electrified lineup. The Liberty facility will be Toyotas hub for developing and producing lithium-ion batteries needed for its expanding portfolio of electrified vehicles. With this proactive infrastructure investment, we will be able to quickly support future expansion opportunities to meet growing customer need, said Sean Suggs, president of Toyota Battery Manufacturing for N.C. Responses "There are still some developers skeptical of the viability of EV industry and debating whether or not to devote resources to EV industry attraction and EV talent, infrastructure and real estate ecosystems," said John H. Boyd, founder and principal with global site-selection firm The Boyd Co. of Boca Raton, Fla. "This is yet another billion dollar project signaling this industry is very real, and very much the 'industry du jour' in the competitive field of business attraction." Boyd said that "whatever your feelings about the environmental benefits of EV, your stakeholders and citizens demand you compete for these projects." "More hydrogen and EV and related battery and CPO projects will also be coming down the pike and will be competed for, as well." Toyota's EV battery expansion decision is related to new U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rules designed to turbocharge the sales of electric vehicles, said Keith Debbage, a joint professor of Geography & Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality at UNC Greensboro. For sure, a great deal more work still remains before we see a successful end product," Debbage said. Debbage said the Biden administration is proposing new rules to ensure that two-thirds of new cars sold in the United States by 2032 are all electric. "Last year, just 6% of all new cars sold were EVs," Debbage said. "It is also because of the long-term community investment by local leadership that helped nurture a handful of shovel-ready mega-sites across our region. "It was a patient approach with a long gestation period, but it is really paying off now." Background Toyota offers 22 electrified vehicle options in the U.S. across the Toyota and Lexus brands, the most among any automaker. By 2025, the company plans to have an electrified option available for every Toyota and Lexus model globally. The Toyota subsidiary plans to build lithium-ion batteries at the plant for about 200,000 hybrid and electric vehicles annually. Toyota plans to roll out 30 battery electric vehicle models by 2030. The Liberty plant is an example of Toyota building things locally where they are sold, said Norm Bafunno, senior vice president of Unit Manufacturing and Engineering at Toyota Motor North America. Its not a 100% alignment, but we try to get as close as we can in our (production) footprint in the United States. Were going to have to keep up with the North American consumer, and that begins in North Carolina. Toyota said it plans to start hiring production and maintenance positions in mid-2023. To apply for open positions, go to www.toyota.com/careers. There are plans for in-person applicant assessment and interview locations in Asheboro and Greensboro through NCWorks locations. As with the Dell Inc., Caterpillar Inc. and Herbalife Nutrition Ltd. manufacturing plants, Toyota is finding significant internal interest from employees willing to transfer to work at the Liberty plant. Legislative changes In July 2022, state legislators eased the workforce requirement from 5,000 employees to 4,500 that Toyota Motor North America Inc. must meet to qualify for the full amount of state economic incentives for its Triad electric-vehicle battery plant. House Bill 911 primarily included regulatory relief legislation and received significant bipartisan support. Although Cooper objected to other sections of the bill, he ultimately allowed it to become law on July 11 without his signature. HB911 served to amend the Toyota-focused section in House Bill 103, the Republican-sponsored 2022-23 state budget bill. Toyota is not listed by name in either bill. The main change was the 500 reduction in the long-term job commitment, which was contingent on HB103 becoming law. Lawmakers tend to employ that legislation-amending tactic in a separate bill to keep intact the original language so as to avoid potential no votes on the primary bill. HB103 states what the legislature is willing to offer in the Toyota production second phase: $225 million in incentives in exchange for a capital-investment commitment of $4.7 billion and a job-creation pledge of at least 5,000 jobs. The lowering of the job-creation pledge to 4,500 is included in HB911, and was contingent on HB103 becoming law. A Winston-Salem man was shot and wounded Tuesday night in a drive-by shooting in the 2300 block of Ivy Avenue, authorities said. Winston-Salem police were dispatched at 7:56 p.m. to a Shot Spotter alert to that location, police said. When officers arrived, they found several spent shell casings and bullet holes in front of the home, police said. Officers also found bullet holes in a red truck parked in the front yard. A short time later, Donte Terrell Moore, 30, of Ivy Avenue arrived at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center with a gunshot wound to his right hand, police said. Moore was treated for a non-life threatening injury at the hospital, police said. Investigators determined that Moore was smoking while he was standing in Ivy Avenue when an unknown vehicle drove by and someone began shooting, police said. Moore realized from the pain in his right hand that he had been shot, police said. Moore didnt provide officers with any information about a suspect. Police are investigating the incident. Anyone with information about this shooting can call Winston-Salem police at 336-773-7700, Crime Stoppers at 336-727-2800 or its Spanish line at 336-728-3904. Crime Stoppers of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County is on Facebook. The Text-A-Tip program at 336-276-1717 allows people to text tips, photos and videos to the police. A U.S. expatriate living in Thailand has been arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for threats made against North Carolinas two U.S. senators and staff members in 2021. FBI special agents from the agencys Charlotte and Atlanta offices arrested Eric Charles Welton on May 25 as he re-entered the U.S. at HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta, according to a news release Tuesday from U.S. Attorney Michael Easley of the N.C. Eastern District. Although the news release did not mention the U.S. senator and staff members who were threatened, the FBI complaint against Welton listed that it involved Sen. Thom Tillis and retired Sen. Richard Burr, both Republicans. Our elected representatives and the public servants who staff their offices must be free to do the peoples work without threats of violence, Easley said. Violent threats against our democratically elected representatives do not just erode our civil discourse they can undermine our democracy. We will hold accountable anyone who threatens violence targeting our bedrock institutions. Welton, 51, faces a criminal complaint for threats he made to the senators in September 2021. He faces another criminal complaint for threats against U.S. Marines and others working the U.S. Consulate in Chiang Mai, Thailand, in October and November 2022. Welton is charged with one count of threatening a federal official. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in prison. Additional charges may follow, according to Easleys office. Neither Tillis nor Burr could be immediately reached for comment Wednesday about the threats and arrest. According to an FBI interview with Weltons father, who lives in Iowa, his son told him he has received at least 600 unsolicited political emails, some originating from the N.C. Republican Party. His father said Welton considered himself as a socialist and was set off by ideas he did not agree with. Welton made multiple harassing and intimidating calls ... due to a large number of unsolicited political emails he claimed he was receiving from the Republican Party. He also made phone calls to the White House switchboard, according to the FBI complaint. According to the complaint filed by FBI special agent Corey Zachman, Welton made at least seven calls to Burrs and Tillis offices in North Carolina. Some calls were answered by a staff member and some were left as voicemail. All calls were recorded. The language of the calls was similar in tone and rhetoric, with the caller threatening to harm and/or murder Sen. Burr and Sen. Tillis and members of their respective staff, among other things, according to Zachman. Zachman said that the Republican Party emails motivated his anger and hostility toward Sen. Burr and Sen. Tillis. He demanded that his email address be removed from distribution lists. Welton was alleged to have engaged in a 13-minute phone call with a staff member at Tillis Raleigh office on Sept. 29, 2021. He said he was living in a war zone created by President Trump. Among his threats was threatening to fly back over there, walk into 310 New Bern Avenue and teach you what Stand your ground means, put a bullet through each of your heads. You are making me wanna (sic) come back there and mow your whole f- state down. Welton also was recorded as saying to the staffer that Im getting a little bit of the cancers upon me, you know, so I dont give a s- anymore. The idea of a suicide vest means I dont have to go through chemotherapy. The complaint also states that Welton threatened to cut off the hands of the individual that had decided to send him the emails. Weltons threats against U.S. Marines and others working at the U.S. Consulate in Thailand took place in October and November. In one voicemail, Welton allegedly stated that he was going to kill a bunch of Marines due to anger over an immigration issue. In February, Burr joined the global law firm of DLA Piper, working with the Regulatory and Government Affairs practice group as a principal policy adviser. The Republican retired from Congress in January after serving five terms in the U.S. House and three terms in the U.S. Senate. Under congressional rules, Burr cannot lobby his former Senate colleagues for two years. Burr maintained a lower profile during spent much of his time in Congress even as he took leadership roles in key Senate public health, finance and foreign intelligence committees. Burr will join the firm with a team of policy advisers that will supplement its legal, policy, economic, medical and technological attorneys and advisers in the health care and life sciences field. Tillis is now serving his second term in the U.S. Senate. Thomasville police have filed an additional juvenile petition against a 14-year-old boy for second-degree murder in connection with the shooting death of another teenager earlier this month, authorities said Tuesday. Investigators worked with the Davidson County District Attorneys Office on the case, police said. The 14-year-old boy was being held Tuesday at the Alexander Juvenile Detention Center in Taylorsville On May 18, police found Jeremy Dallas Redwine Jr., 15, in the front bedroom of a house in the 100 block of Johnia Court with a gunshot wound to his head. Officers administered life-saving measures until Davidson County paramedics arrived on the scene. Redwine was initially treated at Thomasville Medical Center, and he was then taken to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, police said. Redwine died May 19 at Baptist. The 14-year-old boy also is charged with possession of a stolen firearm, police said. The gun was stolen in Winston-Salem. Prior to the shooting, Jeremy Redwine was inside the home on Johnia Court. WGHP/FOX 8, the newsgathering partner of the Journal, has reported that a neighbor said the shooting took place while some teens were playing with a gun, and that the 14-year-old accidentally fired the gun, injuring Redwine. Police didnt confirm that account. Thomasville police continue to investigate the shooting. Reynolds American Inc. plans a reclamation plant at its Tobaccoville manufacturing facility that is expected to recycle more than 60 million gallons of water a year. The Winston-Salem-based Reynolds, a U.S. subsidiary of British American Tobacco Group (BAT), announced it has entered into an agreement with NextEra Energy Resources to incorporate the Florida-based companys WaterHub technology at the 2-million-square-foot factory. The system will capture wastewater, treat it and then reintroduce it for use in the facility, reducing demand on the traditional water system. This project is not only a first for Reynolds, but for the entire global BAT Group and is an important step toward reaching Reynolds water stewardship targets for 2025, said Bernd Meyer, Reynolds executive vice president of operations. Reynolds reduced water use 21% from 2017 levels as of 2022, and now recycles 75 million gallons per year, according to the companys 2022 sustainability report. BAT Group set a goal of cutting water use 35% from 2017 levels by 2025. The company said it reached a 33% reduction in 2022. Reynolds said it plans to break ground on the water-treatment project in in the fall of 2023 and have the system up and running by the end of 2024. The bipartisan and controversial N.C. Senate medical marijuana bill gained a pivotal House ally on Tuesday. N.C. Rep. Donny Lambeth gave his endorsement to Senate Bill 3, titled NC Compassionate Care Act, during a discussion-only hearing in the House Health committee. SB3 passed the Senate by a 36-10 vote on March 1 the second consecutive year the chamber approved the legislation. SB3 would permit the use of medical marijuana for individuals with ALS, cancer, epilepsy, Parkinsons disease, post-traumatic stress disorder and other ailments, but not for those experiencing chronic pain. The bill does not allow recreational marijuana usage. Legislative analysts say it is likely House members will amend SB3 to add language that reflects a more conservative approach. Although Lambeth has championed many healthcare bills, foremost the historic Medicaid expansion bill pending funding in the 2023-24 state budget, he had not expressed an opinion on medical marijuana until Tuesday. During the 2021 debate on a similar Senate bill, Lambeth cast doubt that such a bill could find enough House votes. Lambeth said Tuesday what changed his mind was a fact-finding visit with 15 other legislators to a marijuana operational center in Mississippi. That state has similar restrictions to the ones SB3 proposes for North Carolina. Lambeth said he was reassured by how Mississippi handled the growing of the marijuana used for medical purposes. It was set up in a very controlled environment in a large warehouse a series of greenhouses with strong regulation, strong security. We were given a very comprehensive review. We sat down with the speaker of the Mississippi House, and it made an impact on me since I was still on the fence. Lambeth also cited recent conversations with ministers, family people, friends, saying please help us because weve been in such pain and we think this will actually relieve us of that pain. Meanwhile, Lambeth said most of the voices he hears against SB3 is those expressing concern about medical marijuana being a pathway to legalization of recreational marijuana, or that it only masks pain. We need to be able to answer that question, Lambeth said. But, if you go see how well this is actually regulated and controlled and the environment it is grown in, it gives you a different perspective. There was no question about the accountability in this particular plant we were in. We all need to learn more about it as we decide what were going to do with this bill, Lambeth said. Rabons experience Lambeth also said he has been influenced by the experiences of primary bill sponsor Sen. Bill Rabon, R-Brunswick, as he sought relief from intense chemotherapy pain. Rabon was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2000 at age 48. Rabon has said his oncologist initially told him he had as much as 18 months to live. Until Tuesday, Rabon, now age 71, had been reluctant to share many details of his medical treatments, considering it a private matter. Urged to share his story by a House Health committee member, Rabon acknowledged limited use of marijuana a few puffs enabled him to withstand the worst of his chemotherapy treatments as he continued to work at his veterinarian practice. Ive told it many, many times privately, and I have no shame in saying, you know, this is what you will do in order to stay alive, Rabon said after the committee meeting, according to The Associated Press. Rabon told the oncologist he had not been encouraged by his first three months of treatment. The oncologist warned that a more aggressive form of treatment would make him real sick, and told him he needed to get some good marijuana. Rabon said his dilemma of considering using marijuana led him to tell his local police chief and sheriff that Im going to have to buy drugs illegally to stay alive. Instead, Rabon said marijuana would show up in his mailbox as he needed it. Finding a way to tolerate the worse of the chemotherapy is the only reason Im alive today, Rabon said. It can help a number of people at the end of their life at a time that they need compassion what time they have left should be as comfortable and as easy as they can be, Rabon said. Potential opposition from House speaker Tim Moore, R-Cleveland, and House majority leader John Bell IV, R-Johnston, could derail SB3 in the House, said John Dinan, a Wake Forest University political science professor and national expert on state legislatures. However, the News & Observer of Raleigh quoted Moore as saying in February that SB3 has decent prospects of passage given new House members elected in 2022. Last year when we didnt take it up, it was overwhelmingly opposed by most of the caucus, Moore told the Raleigh newspaper. Attitudes have changed, and I think some folks have had an opportunity, once they were back home and met with folks, to see that theres some potentially legitimate uses for this. A simple kindness It was a simple gesture, but it brought a tear to my eye. I had gone to Lowes Home Improvement to find a U.S. flag. And when a man named Dave came to help me, I told him that on Memorial Day Im going to drive 100 miles to pay my respects to a friend who died in Nam in 1969. We found a good one, and a Marine Corps flag, too. Then Dave said, Let me pay for it. Steve Slechta Winston-Salem Trump vs. truth In 2016 candidate Donald Trump claimed he would pay down the national debt over eight years. When his four-year term ended, it had ballooned by an additional $7.8 trillion. Unlike Trump, the numbers dont lie. Do we really want him anywhere near the Oval Office? Ken Burkel Clemmons Voucher illogic The logic of the May 26 letter, Coopers hypocrisy, is difficult to follow. The author makes the obvious statement that parents should be free to send their children to a school they choose, but criticizes the governor for making that choice. Is that choice only allowed for some? The writer really goes off the rails in the next statement, however, referring to parents using their own (his emphasis) tax dollars to pay for that school. Sorry, but, once you pay your taxes, the money is not yours to spend anymore. Your taxes go into the general fund to spend for the benefit of all of us. Government services are not on an a la carte menu. How could it be otherwise? If you dont like the public park nearest your home, should I pay for you to join the country club so your child has a place to play? If you are unsatisfied with your local police, do I have to contribute to you so you can hire private security? No, you make your opinion known to your elected representatives when they make unwise spending choices, just like those of us who are horrified by school vouchers are doing. Dennis Sykes Winston-Salem No to vouchers Regarding a recent letter to The Readers Forum, Coopers hypocrisy (May 26), I believe the writer has missed the point of Gov. Roy Coopers objection to school vouchers. Every parent has the right to send their child to a private school as long as they are paying the tuition. The issue arises when taxpayers are paying that tuition. Taxes should be used to improve our public schools, which are not receiving sufficient funds. North Carolina ranks 48th nationally in public school funding. Until we provide adequate funding for public schools, school vouchers to private schools should be off the table. Taxpayers should not be funding private schools and Gov. Cooper is not a hypocrite. He cares about all of our children. Jo Ann Mount Winston-Salem Climate solutions Every week brings more news about the impacts of climate change. Every week also brings news about the economic opportunities of transitioning to a clean-energy economy. On June 13, about 1,000 volunteers from Citizens Climate Lobby will meet with hundreds of congressional offices in Washington, D.C., to talk about market-based, effective, job-creating solutions to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels that will reduce the risk from climate change. Im writing to thank those volunteers going to Washington like my friend Bill Blancato, a regular contributor to the Journal. The best way to help Bill and the other volunteers is to take a few minutes to write or call your member of Congress and ask them to support market-based solutions to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Heres a link you can use to write: https://citizensclimatelobby.org/get-loud-take-action/introduce-yourself/. Debra Demske Winston Salem Bah? Humbug?Your May 30 article, The 50-30-20 rule is a form of budgeting that splits your monthly, after-tax income into three major categories: necessities, wants and savings.=, makes no mention of charitable contributions or gifts. Teaching readers to be selfish, are we? Michael Woods Kernersville BRYAN, Texas Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes entered a Texas prison Tuesday where she could spend the next 11 years for overseeing a blood-testing hoax that became a parable about greed and hubris in Silicon Valley. Holmes, 39, could be seen from outside the prisons gates walking into the federal womens prison camp located in Bryan, Texas, wearing jeans, a brown sweater and smiling as she spoke with two prison employees accompanying her. The minimum-security facility is about 95 miles northwest of Houston, where she grew up aspiring to become a technology visionary along the lines of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. As she begins her sentence, Holmes is leaving behind two young children a son born in July 2021 a few weeks before the start of her trial and a 3-month old daughter who was conceived after a jury convicted her on four felony counts of fraud and conspiracy in January 2022. She was free on bail up until Tuesday, most recently living in the San Diego area with the children's father, William Billy Evans. The couple met in 2017 around the same time Holmes was under investigation for the collapse of Theranos, a startup she founded after dropping out of Stanford University when she was just 19. The state of Iowa is challenging a ruling that it violated prison workers right to be heard on issues of personal safety and assaults on the staff committed by inmates. In a petition filed last week in Polk County District Court, Attorney General Brenna Bird, representing the state, is arguing that state agencies are under no legal obligation to meet with their employees over workplace safety concerns. The dispute stems from an event that took place in the fall of 2017, when Neil LeMaster and Todd Eaves, union representatives and correctional officers at Iowa State Penitentiary, attempted to speak to the then-warden, Patti Wachtendorf, about an increase in altercations with inmates and concerns for workers safety. During a labor management meeting in September 2017, LeMaster and Eaves raised employees concerns about their workplace conditions. They later alleged Wachtendorf refused to answer their questions. They also claimed that shortly after the meeting, Wachtendorf refused to meet with LeMaster in his capacity as union president and told him any concerns he had as an individual worker could be raised at the next staff meeting. In October 2017, LeMaster sent Wachtendorf an email, indicating he and Eaves would like to meet with her to discuss the health and safety of our staff. Wachtendorf sent back an email in which she stated, I will meet with any staff; Im very open about that. I will meet with you and Todd as officers/staff, not as union representatives. The new forum for that is the staff communications meeting that I would like to see both of you attend. Board: Wachtendorfs refusal to listen violated law The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees then filed a complaint with the Iowa Public Employment Relations Board. The board concluded that due to a 2017 change in state law, the state was no longer required to meet with union representatives to discuss health and safety matters. PERB ruled that Wachtendorfs refusal to meet with LeMaster and Eaves as union representatives was not a violation of law. AFSCME appealed that decision, and on review, a district court judge ruled in December that Iowa law unambiguously states that public employees have the right to engage in activities not just for purpose of collective bargaining, but also for other forms of mutual aid or protection. The judge remanded the case back to the board for further consideration. Last month, the board sided with union, ruling that it is clear that the state refused to entertain any communication from LeMaster and Eaves on behalf of other employees (and) the union. The board went on to say: LeMasters and Eaves attempt to communicate employees concerns regarding their health and safety based upon increased inmate assaults is clearly a protected concerted activity. While the state has no obligation to bargain or negotiate with regard to such concerns, it also cannot interfere with or restrain employees rights to express concerns and be heard on such matters. The record is clear that the state, by Wachtendorf refusing to listen or entertain questions regarding these matters on behalf of the union and refusing to have a meeting to hear such concerns, interfered or restrained such rights. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird is now seeking judicial review of that decision, arguing in new court filings that there is no statutory obligation that a public employer meet with an employee upon request. AFSCME and the board have yet to file a response to the states petition. Prior to 2017, it wasnt unusual for representatives of state management and union officials to hold periodic meetings to discuss and resolve workplace concerns. At that time, their collective bargaining agreement required the parties to attempt to resolve issues concerning employee health and safety through such meetings before pursuing litigation or other actions. However, in February 2017, the Iowa Legislature approved a bill eliminating the requirement that the state attempt to address safety issues in meetings with union officials, at least for the bargaining units that arent largely composed of public-safety officers. Photos: Emergency Crews Respond to Partial Building Collapse in downtown Davenport 052823-qc-nws-collapse-14.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-15.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-16.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-12.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-07.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-06.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-05.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-10.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-08.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-13.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-09.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-01.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-04.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-02.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-19.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-17.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-24.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-21.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-22.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-20.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-18.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-25.jpg Davenport apartment building collapse Davenport apartment building collapse Davenport apartment building collapse Davenport apartment building collapse Davenport apartment building collapse 052823-qc-nws-collapse-47.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-30.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-36.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-31.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-28.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-39.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-42.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-46.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-50.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-43.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-33.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-32.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-44.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-34.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-29.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-37.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-41.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-48.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-45.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-35.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-40.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-38.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-49.jpg 052823-qc-nws-collapse-27.jpg Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers asked a Lancaster County District Court judge to reject a request to block the enforcement of restrictions on gender-affirming care and abortions after 12 weeks. In a court filing late Tuesday, Hilgers asked Judge Lori Maret to reject a temporary injunction while a lawsuit seeking to overturn LB574 a bill containing both provisions goes through the legal process. Hours earlier, the ACLU of Nebraska, on behalf of Planned Parenthood of the Heartland and Dr. Sarah Traxler, chief medical officer of Planned Parenthood North Central States, filed the suit alleging the Legislature violated the state constitution's single-subject rule when it voted to combine the two measures. Mindy Rush Chipman, interim executive director of the ACLU of Nebraska, said the process used by state lawmakers circumvented legislative guardrails and the state constitution itself, and the suit sought a temporary injunction to stop it from going into effect. Hilgers, in a response, said the ACLU of Nebraska and Planned Parenthood did not meet the criteria needed for a temporary restraining order from being issued, and he argued their lawsuit was not likely to succeed on their merits. The attorney general also said no Nebraska court has ever found that the Legislature violated the single-subject rule, and that they could not demonstrate an immediate and irreparable harm "that such an extraordinary action against the State is not just recommended, but required." "These questions are appropriate for a hearing on Preliminary Injunction where all parties have an opportunity to be heard and present evidence," Hilgers wrote. Maret has not ruled on the ACLU of Nebraska's request. Meet the Nebraska state senators making laws in 2023 SCOTTSBLUFF A search of newspaper articles in an online database of newspapers across the state and the county doesnt turn up much about Kerry Girard, a Scottsbluff woman missing since 1997. Achievements are listed in the statistics columns of track stories, mostly in the Alliance Times-Herald. The young woman garnered recognition as an attendant in the St. Agnes School royalty court in April 1980. Her name is listed among her siblings as her parents, Bernard and Betty, celebrated their 40th anniversary in July 1991. She served in different roles in weddings of family members. However, less than a handful of articles come up that document the womans disappearance. Most of those are a February 1999 Associated Press article circulated in newspapers across the state. Its just five paragraphs, with little information about the case, as a former Scottsbluff Police detective says police were out of clues and looking for help in the case. Twenty-four years after that article, the womans family hopes an effort to reexamine unsolved cases will finally bring them the answers they seek. Recently, Scottsbluff Police Sgt. Krisa Brass attended a homicide training with a fellow Scottsbluff Police detective. In that training, the two police officers discussed tools available to law enforcement today, she told the Star-Herald. While we were there, we made a list of technology changes or database changes that we thought could be applied to some of our unsolved cases, Brass said. And then we brought the list back out, trying to figure out ways we could plug in that information. Currently, Brass is on modified assignment and she is reviewing unsolved cases, including the disappearance of Girard. Girard is believed to have disappeared sometime in June 1997. Brass said that timeline is based on court filings and interviews with Girards family. A number of events led to the family losing contact with Girard, who had experienced some legal problems, and they were not immediately aware she was missing. She had been sentenced to one year in the womens penitentiary in York on a misdemeanor charge of attempted forgery after being convicted of stealing a check from a Gering man and cashing it for $500. Kerry Girards brother, Dennis, and Betty Girard, Dennis and Kerrys mother, last saw her at that May 1, 1997, sentencing hearing, where the judge determined she was ineligible for probation. However, Dennis said, Kerry wasnt upset about the sentence. She was ready to serve her sentence, he said. She expected it. Afterward, he said, her attorney advised that it would be about six weeks before the family could reach her, as she would undergo evaluations and other steps during the intake process. At the conclusion of that six weeks, the family reached out to prison authorities, seeking to make contact with their sister and daughter only to learn that Kerry Girard was not in the penitentiary. She had never been there. Dennis Girard said he was surprised to learn that just four days after her sentence, the public defender representing her filed notice of intent to file an appeal to the district court, arguing that her sentence was excessive. Kerry Girard bonded out of jail for just $500. Her parents and other family members never knew. Girards appeal was later denied. She appeared for a June 13, 1997, hearing in the appeal, but did not appear with her attorney for arguments in a July 11, 1997, proceeding. Her appeal was denied. Authorities didnt immediately issue a warrant for her arrest after she failed to appear to serve her sentence. At just 35 years old, Kerry Girard went missing, never to be heard from again. Earlier this month, the family, at least mentally, marked the last time that she was seen alive. Kerry would be 61 years old. At the time of her disappearance, she was described as a white female, with dark blond hair and green eyes. She was 5-foot-7 and weighed 124 pounds. Dennis and his wife, Marina, continue to hope that the family will learn about his sisters fate, even after all of this time. The family is not shy in admitting that they believe that Kerry Girard is dead and even in that 1999 Associated Press article, a Scottsbluff Police lieutenant said police also believe foul play to be involved in her disappearance. Unfortunately, she did have a substance abuse problem, her sister-in-law said, admitting it complicated her relationships. But she always came around. She always called her mom on Mothers Day, or even visited her. She had a twin brother, and she always made contact with him for their birthday. She came to major holidays and we did things together. Asked to share with people about Kerry, Marina said, Kerry was a loving, caring person. She was fun to be around. Originally, Marina told the Star-Herald, after learning that Kerry had not reported in York, the family reported her missing to the Gering Police Department. Marina said she doesnt remember exactly why family reached out to the Gering Police Department, except that the family initially believed her to be in jail in Scotts Bluff County. Gering Police they had been handling Kerrys criminal case and the family had also been working with a child protective services worker in that jurisdiction at the time. They also made contact with the Alliance Police Department and other agencies. The Girards experienced troubles similar to those many family members of missing adults report: With Kerry being an adult, an immediate presumption had been that she left on her own accord. It was further complicated, Marina said, by the fact that she was in a relationship involving domestic violence. I believe that (initially) law enforcement believed that we were hiding her out, that we were protecting her to help her escape and avoid her sentence, she said. They didnt know who to reach out to, Brass said of the Girards initial attempts to locate Kerry. With it believed that the woman had simply absconded, Brass said, I guess I would question how seriously it was taken at the time. Then speculation arose that Kerry had left a domestic abuse situation and could be hiding in a safe house, Marina said. At the time, Marina said, domestic violence cases were handled much differently than today. Family members attempted to help Kerry report incidents of domestic violence to police, only for her to later withdraw the charges. They had come to an impasse, believing that pushing Kerry further would lead to her or even her family members being killed if she didnt leave her relationship. Though family members had seen her with black eyes and other bruising, and believed her boyfriend to be a monster, in Marinas words, they were never sure how to handle the case. Even today, she said, there is very little record of the domestic violence reports Kerry did make. There have been a lot of changes in the handling of domestic violence cases since then, she said, saying that Kerry had been isolated in the years before her disappearance and was fully dependent on her boyfriend. In the last 20 years, its taken a lot more seriously. Eventually, Scottsbluff police made contact with the boyfriend, whom Brass described as uncooperative. According to Brass and the Girards, he told police that one day she just left. Its an area of the case that Marina said she wishes she would have pushed more. His home was not searched, and Kerrys belongings were never recovered. According to the boyfriend, she took what little belongings she had and left, Brass said. According to people Brass has contacted in her initial inquiries in the case, she said, She had $20 to her name, no vehicle or no access to a vehicle. Its unlikely that she had the resources to leave, she said. In talking to investigators several times through the years, Dennis Girard said he learned they hadnt really made any progress in Kerrys case. At some point, Marina said she was told that she didnt need to keep calling for updates in the case. To paraphrase, she said, she was told, We have your name and your contact information. If theres any developments, youll be the first one to hear from us. When speaking to Brass, Marina said, she learned that notes were often made when the family reached out on the case. The file just said that a family member reached out. The family has struggled with not knowing what to do, and how to do it. We just didnt have enough connections, I guess, to push more, Marina said, saying the family often wonders if they should have done more, such as contacting a state senator or others. After recently hearing from Brass, she said, the familys hope for peace and resolution have been quickly revived. As Brass looked at the Kerry Girard file again, she said she found dental records were added through the years. At different points, those records have been examined as matches in physical descriptions have been seen in reports from other agencies. The most recent update in Girards case will be the addition of DNA to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), a national clearinghouse and resource center for missing, unidentified and unclaimed persons. It will be weeks before that DNA which is a familial DNA and not Kerry Girards, as none of her belongings were ever recovered is processed and entered into the system. Requests from law enforcement are made to NamUS, which accepts them and puts them in the queue to be able to submit the DNA to a lab. After submission, a DNA profile will be built and available to explore for matches nationwide. It will be helpful if a body or other DNA match appears in another area of the state or country, Brass explained. Though Marina and Dennis believe strongly that Kerrys body remains undiscovered, somewhere in Scotts Bluff County, its possible her body could be recovered somewhere else. Kerrys parents, Bernard and Betty, died without knowing what happened to their daughter. In 2007, the couple filed a probate case on behalf of Kerry in Scotts Bluff County, looking to have the court presumptively determine her death and be appointed personal representatives to handle less than $35,000 in life insurance proceeds. To have a child disappear, and not know what happened, is very hard. Very hard, Marina said, noting that the couples grief was further compounded by knowing that justice will never be had if her boyfriend were responsible for her death. Her boyfriend died within a few years of Kerrys disappearance. He died in 2000, according to an online listing for West Lawn Cemetery in Gering. Kerry Girard had two children, who were adopted by family. I want to give her the proper burial and the respect that she deserves, Marina said of her and Dennis desire for someone to step forward with any information about the womans disappearance and her probable death. Were very appreciative that Sgt. Brass took this case on, Marina said. There have been so many cases, that after many years, they have been resolved. We know were never going to have a happy ending to it, but ... Brass said she urged anyone with any information in the case to contact her at the Scottsbluff Police Department. Even a small detail could be helpful to police as they explore different pieces of the case. The Scottsbluff Police Department can be reached at 308-632-7176. The Scotts Bluff County Crime Stoppers also has an anonymous tip line, 308-632-STOP (7867). Getting away with murder: Nebraska cold cases Patricia Webb Tina McMenamin Ali Saleh Al-Saidi Gina Bos Ann Marie Kelley Carl Bittner K.K. Kody Christi Nichols Donald Bennett Ernestine Ruschy Eugene McGuire Jay Durnil Mary Heese Gregory Moore Irvin Settje Jason Remsen Jason Vesper Brian Walker Arthur Morley Jay Blockson Jeanne Kassebaum William, Bernice and Barbara Peak Jeffrey Snoddy Joy Blanchard Demetrius Simpson Julie Derrick Leah Rowlands Letha Harley Mary Cabral Mary Cronin Merlin Mosel Mitchell Simon Patrick Vostades Rebecca Williams Richard Chadek Richard Lessley Robert Beaudoin Robert Heelan Rudolfo Flores Russell McKnight Sandy Green Sarah Neal Tyrone Banister Waddell Robinson Charles Hanks John Pestal was just a week shy of his 20th birthday when he joined a crowd of 3,000 to see President Harry Truman dedicate World War II Memorial Park for the city of Omaha. Truman stood before the distinctive colonnade bearing the names of 900 Douglas County boys who had died in the war. He spoke a few words and laid a memorial wreath near the foot of the flagpole. On Sunday, Trumans grandson, Clifton Truman Daniel, a writer and public relations executive, will take part in a ceremony to mark the 75th anniversary of the parks dedication on June 5, 1948. Pestal, now 94, plans to be there, too. The longtime Dundee barber and Korean War veteran has lived most of his life within a few blocks of Memorial Park. Truman was up at the monument, Pestal recalled. I dont walk too good, but Im going to try to be there with the others to see his grandson. If he does, he might be the only person to attend both ceremonies. Memorial Park now commemorates those who died in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, in addition to those who fell in World War II. Besides honoring the countys war dead, the park also has become an indispensable Omaha gathering place the site of picnics, winter sledding, concerts, weddings and ballgames. This is such an important chunk of property, as a civic space, said Nick Manhart, historian and archivist for the Omaha Parks Foundation, which is sponsoring Sundays commemoration. It was a monumental effort, literally. The event will begin at 1 p.m. The list of notable speakers includes Sen. Deb Fischer, Gov. Jim Pillen, Mayor Jean Stothert, University of Nebraska President and retired Vice Adm. Ted Carter Jr., and Air Force Gen. Anthony Cotton, chief of U.S. Strategic Command. Just as Truman laid a wreath near the flagpole, so will some families of Omahas fallen: * Sherry Williams, sister of Vietnam War Medal of Honor recipient Pfc. James Fous * Jose Puentes, brother of missing Vietnam War Army Staff Sgt. Manuel Puentes * Wendy Adelson, mother of Marine Cpl. Daegan Page, who died in the 2021 Kabul airport suicide bombing * Chester French, nephew of the unsung Black World War II sailor Petty Officer 1st Class Charles Jackson French, whose heroism in rescuing wounded shipmates was barely acknowledged by the Navy for nearly 80 years. Entertainers from Offutt Air Force Bases Heartland of America band will perform, as will jumpers from the Lincoln Parachute Skydiving Club. Classic military vehicles and military tribute trucks will be on display. Native American veterans will play drums. And the centerpiece is the a 26-foot-tall bronze Embracing Peace, a sculpture depicting a famous V-J Day image of a sailor bending a woman in a nurses uniform over in a deep kiss. The sculpture will be here for six months. Embracing Peace is meant to be an attention-grabber, tying the park back to its World War II origins. Its built on a brand-new event plaza built for future concerts and art shows. The Parks Department is doing what it can to make this park shine, said Tiffany Regan, the Parks Foundations executive director. Were trying to bring people here. Even many in the area dont know the history of the park. Manhart immersed himself in archives at the Durham Museum to learn the parks origin story. He found that it started with Lulu Broad, who owned the Gypsy Tea Shop downtown. Many war widows, troubled by their loss, visited Broad to have their fortunes read in tea leaves. She was so moved by their suffering, she wrote to Henry Doorly, publisher of The World-Herald, in January 1944 with an idea. She said, We need a memorial for these poor souls who died in the war, Manhart said. She had to go to the bigwigs to get it done. Doorly liked the idea and recruited Robert H. Storz, an executive with the family-owned Storz Brewery, to lead the effort. Neither Doorly nor Storz wanted to repeat the failure of an earlier group to raise sufficient funds to build a World War I veterans memorial at Elmwood Park. Robert had a living memory of that kind of fiasco, Manhart said. He took it on his shoulders to create a proper organizational infrastructure, and a fundraising apparatus. Storzs steering committee included more than 80 trustees from across Omaha, and he pitched the park as a living memorial. He asked the whole community to pitch in and raise the $262,450 cost of the land and the memorial, equal to about $4.4 million today. In one letter dated Feb. 15, 1945 before the war was over Storz invited businesses to contribute $5 for every employee who had served in the war, and $100 for every employee who has made the Supreme Sacrifice. In a radio address the same month, he said the park would be a sacred spot, not marred by commercial activities or any other distraction to disturb its tranquil peace. His strategy worked. Storz raised the money in time for land clearing to begin in October 1945 less than two months after the Japanese surrendered to end the war. Omahans watched the earth-moving, tree-planting and monument-building go on for more than 2 years until the day of the dedication finally arrived. Pestal had seen the work up-close. I remember when they had the bulldozers that were shaping that part of the park, he said. They had to push a lot of dirt up there to make that (hill). It was quite a coup to get the president of the United States to visit Omaha. 1948 was an election year, and Truman had just begun the first of the railroad whistle stop tours that became a trademark of his campaign. The Omaha visit was meant to be nonpolitical sort of. His main purpose was to attend a reunion of the 35th Division, the unit Truman served with during World War I. He would also lay a wreath on the tomb of Father Edward Flanagan, founder and director of Boys Town, who had died just three weeks earlier while visiting Germany on Trumans behalf to learn about the plight of European war orphans. That night, he gave a radio speech at Ak-Sar-Ben Coliseum. At Trumans side during his visit was Omaha insurance executive Ed McKim, a close friend from their Army days who had worked for Truman briefly as a White House aide in the first months of his presidency. In the morning Truman marched downtown with his Army buddies from Battery D of the 129th Field Artillery, smiling and waving his hat to a cheering crowd estimated at 160,000. After lunch he motored out Dodge Street with McKim to the World War II Memorial Park dedication. Gold Star family members made up much of the crowd. It was a solemn President Truman who stepped to the speakers stand, reported The World-Heralds Ralph Smith. Gone was the jaunty, smiling mood of the Harry Truman who had marched festively in the morning parade. One of those Gold Star family members was McKim. His son, Marine Lt. Eddie McKim Jr., had been killed four years earlier in the Battle of Guam. The 22-year-old had left behind a wife and infant son. His name was on one of the plaques behind where Truman and McKim stood. In his short remarks, Truman noted that a tree had been planted in Eddie McKims honor at the park. Eddie was a fine boy. I knew him from birth until the day he sailed away, he said. Truman praised the men and women, boys and girls, who had helped to win the war. He urged everyone to work for world peace, and for the success of the brand-new United Nations. Then he conjured up the spirit of President Abraham Lincoln and his Gettysburg Address, delivered at the dedication of another monument to the war dead 86 years earlier. If we make this peace what these young men who died believed it would be, they will not have died in vain, Truman said. And with this memorial ever before you, you in Douglas County can always look forward to the accomplishment of that ideal. And I am sure you will. Photos: Embracing Peace sculpture installed at Memorial Park KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) Uganda's president has signed into law anti-gay legislation supported by many in this East African country but widely condemned by rights activists and others abroad. The version of the bill signed by President Yoweri Museveni doesn't criminalize those who identify as LGBTQ+, a key concern for some rights campaigners who condemned an earlier draft of the legislation as an egregious attack on human rights. But the new law still prescribes the death penalty for aggravated homosexuality, which is defined as cases of sexual relations involving people infected with HIV, as well as with minors and other categories of vulnerable people. A suspect convicted of attempted aggravated homosexuality can be imprisoned for up to 14 years, according to the legislation. Parliamentary Speaker Anita Among said in a statement that the president had answered the cries of our people in signing the bill. With a lot of humility, I thank my colleagues the Members of Parliament for withstanding all the pressure from bullies and doomsday conspiracy theorists in the interest of our country, the statement said. Museveni had returned the bill to the national assembly in April, asking for changes that would differentiate between identifying as LGBTQ+ and actually engaging in homosexual acts. That angered some lawmakers, including some who feared the president would proceed to veto the bill amid international pressure. Lawmakers passed an amended version of the bill earlier in May. LGBTQ+ rights campaigners say the new legislation is unnecessary in a country where homosexuality has long been illegal under a colonial-era law criminalizing sexual activity against the order of nature. The punishment for that offense is life imprisonment. The United States had warned of economic consequences over legislation described by Amnesty International as draconian and overly broad. In a statement from the White House later Monday, U.S. President Joe Biden called the new law a tragic violation of universal human rights one that is not worthy of the Ugandan people, and one that jeopardizes the prospects of critical economic growth for the entire country. "I join with people around the world including many in Uganda in calling for its immediate repeal. No one should have to live in constant fear for their life or being subjected to violence and discrimination. It is wrong," Biden said. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern, saying the law foresees the death penalty and long sentences for consensual acts between adults and raises the risk of worsening the violence and persecution already faced by lesbian, gay and bisexual people in Uganda, his spokesman said. He calls on Uganda to fully respect its international human rights obligations, in particular the principle of non-discrimination and the respect for personal privacy, irrespective of sexual orientation and gender identity, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. The United Nations Human Rights Office said it was appalled that the draconian and discriminatory anti-gay bill is now law," describing the legislation as a recipe for systematic violations of the rights" of LGBTQ+ people and others. In a joint statement the leaders of the U.N. AIDS program, the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief and the Global Fund said they were deeply concerned about the harmful impact of the legislation on public health and the HIV response. Ugandas progress on its HIV response is now in grave jeopardy, the statement said. The Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 will obstruct health education and the outreach that can help end AIDS as a public health threat. That statement noted that stigma and discrimination associated with the passage of the Act has already led to reduced access to prevention as well as treatment services" for LGBTQ+ people. Rights activists have the option of appealing the legislation before the courts. Later Monday, one group of activists and academics petitioned the constitutional court seeking an injunction against enforcement of the law. An anti-gay bill enacted in 2014 was later nullified by a panel of judges who cited a lack of quorum in the plenary session that had passed that particular bill. Any legal challenge this time is likely to be heard on the merits, rather than on technical questions. Anti-gay sentiment in Uganda has grown in recent weeks amid news coverage alleging sodomy in boarding schools, including a prestigious school for boys where a parent accused a teacher of abusing her son. The February decision of the Church of England s national assembly to continue banning church weddings for same-sex couples while allowing priests to bless same-sex marriages and civil partnerships outraged many in Uganda and elsewhere in Africa. RACINE Despite a pandemic and the pain of cancer, one Downtown Racine business owner has beaten the odds and not only survived, but thrived. In recognition of her achievements, Yolanda Coleman, owner of several businesses in Downtown Racine, has received the U.S Small Business Administration 2023 SBA Wisconsin Women in Business Champion Award. Coleman was presented the award last week during a ceremony at BePlush, 300 Main St., a business she owns with other small business owners. I just want to help women become who want to become entrepreneurs who want to make their dreams become a realty, Coleman said. If I could help everyone I would definitely try to help everyone. When Coleman started her first business, Plush Clothing, 409 Main St, in 2019, she was helped with a loan from the Wisconsin Womens Business Initiative Corporations Racine Office. WWBIC, an SBA partner, helps women with loans and counseling on their journey to becoming business owners. Heather Lux, regional project director for WWBICs Southeast office, nominated Coleman for the award. Back in 2019 when I started my dream, WWBIC was there to help me continue my dream, Coleman said. SBA was there to help me continue my dream. The plush in Plush Clothing stands for pretty, lovely, unique, sexy and, most importantly, according to Coleman, happy. The stores mission is to empower women to be their best by looking their best. Coleman wanted a place where she could be comfortable while shopping for beautiful, high quality and trendy items at reasonable prices. Shortly after signing the lease for her first business, Coleman was diagnosed with breast cancer. But she didnt let the diagnosis or having to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic the year she opened deter her. Coleman said that in May 2022, around the time she made an appearance on the WISN show Project Pitch It, she fought hard to keep her head above water. In addition to opening a second business, BePlush, just down the street from Plush, she has started No One Fights Alone, which raises money for people dealing with a cancer diagnosis. Coleman has encouraged other business owners, notably women of color, to open their own businesses Downtown. She is always willing to help new entrepreneurs learn from her experience, and she shares her brand of expertise gladly, said Eric Ness, director of the Wisconsin District Office of the SBA. Ness said small businesses account for two out of three new jobs created and 99% of all businesses in Wisconsin and represent about 40% of payroll in the state. Small businesses are really the heart of our community, City of Racine Mayor Cory Mason said at the ceremony. On behalf of the city and all of our residents, thank you (Yolanda) for the business you provide here, for the diversity you bring to our main street, and the work you do to employ people and provide a great service.